Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Estimation of Terrestrial Water Storage change in the Bhagirathi Ganga and Vishnu Ganga basins using satellite gravimetry

Terrestrial Water Storage (TWS) in the Bhagirathi Ganga and Vishnu Ganga basins is an important hydrologic component for the Ganga River. Improved estimation of TWS in the Bhagirathi Ganga and Vishnu Ganga basins is crucial for water resources management for India. Despite its importance, storage and change of TWS in the study area has not been well studied at a larger scale. In this investigation, TWS and its change (TWSC) is estimated in the Bhagirathi Ganga and Vishnu Ganga basins during the period of 2004 to 2010. TWS is calculated from two methods: The first method employs the GRACE remote sensing satellite while the second employs estimation by use of climate data of study area provided by NOAA. TWSC is estimated from the TWS by subtraction of two consecutive monthly values. In addition, Total water storage change is also estimated from a water balance approach using a combination of precipitation, runoff and transevaporation. The spatial average values of GRACE and NOAA from 1°×1° spatial resolutions was extracted using a watershed mask derived from the DEM of the Bhagirathi Ganga and Vishnu Ganga basins. The TWS result from the GRACE and NOAA show decreasing trend in TWS of 0.54 cm/year and 0.2 cm/year, respectively due to decrease in precipitation, high evaporation of the study area. The results indicate the great potential of GRACE and water balance approach using NOAA data for providing hydrological information to water resource management in Uttarakhand.
Parasitic helminth genomics

The initiation of genome projects on helminths of medical importance promises to yield new drug targets and vaccine candidates in unprecedented numbers. In order to exploit this emerging data it is essential that the user community is aware of the scope and quality of data available, and that the genome projects provide analyses of the raw data to highlight potential genes of interest. Core bioinformatics support for the parasite genome projects has promoted these approaches. In the Brugia genome project, a combination of expressed sequence tag sequencing from multiple cDNA libraries representing the complete filarial nematode lifecycle, and comparative analysis of the sequence dataset, particularly using the complete genome sequence of the model nematode C. elegans, has proved very effective in gene discovery.
Critical Marketing Studies and Critical Marketing Education: Key Ideas, Concepts and Materials

This paper introduces Critical Marketing Studies and makes a case for its inclusion in marketing education. A review of relevant literature is provided and a range of important topics for a Critically oriented course of instruction are proposed. After justifying the need for Critical Marketing Education and explicating how lecturing staff might pursue such a pedagogical strategy, a summary of ten DVD sources is offered. These would be highly valuable supplementary resources to illuminate the complex and dark-side nature of the marketplace. Links are made to appropriate literature sources, concepts and social theory to enable the interested scholar to combine theoretical, conceptual and brute empirical realism in their lectures.
Quantification of Basal and Stimulated ROS Levels as Predictors of Islet Potency and Function

We have developed a luminol‐based assay using intact islets, which allows for quantification of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In addition, an index capable of characterizing metabolic and mitochondrial integrity prior to transplantation was created based on the capacity of islets to respond to high glucose and rotenone (mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I inhibitor) by production of ROS.
A Low-Power, Linearized, Ultra-Wideband LNA Design Technique

This work proposes a practical linearization technique for high-frequency wideband applications using an active nonlinear resistor, and analyzes its performance with Volterra series. The linearization technique is applied to an ultra-wideband (UWB) cascode common gate Low Noise Amplifier (CG-LNA), and two additional reference designs are implemented to evaluate the linearization technique - a standard (without linearization) cascode CG-LNA and a single-transistor CG-LNA. The single-transistor CG-LNA achieves +6.5 to +9.5 dBm IIP3, 10 dB (max.) gain, and 2.9 dB (min.) NF over a 3-11 GHz bandwidth (BW); the LNA consumes 2.4 mW from a 1.3 V supply. The cascode linearized LNA achieves +11.7 to +14.1 dBm IIP3, 11.6 dB (max.) gain, and 3.6 dB (min.) NF over 1.5 to 8.1 GHz; the cascode LNA consumes 2.62 mW from a 1.3 V supply. Experimental results show that the linearization technique improves the cascode LNA's IIP3 by a factor of 3.5 to 9 dB over a 2.5-10 GHz frequency range.
Self-normalization and noise-robustness in early auditory representations

A common sequence of operations in the early stages of most sensory systems is a multiscale transform followed by a compressive nonlinearity. The authors explore the contribution of these operations to the formation of robust and perceptually significant representation in the early auditory system. It is shown that auditory representation of the acoustic spectrum is effectively a self-normalized spectral analysis, i.e., the auditory system computes a spectrum divided by a smoothed version of itself. Such a self-normalization induces significant effects such as spectral shape enhancement and robustness against scaling and noise corruption. Examples using synthesized signals and a natural speech vowel are presented to illustrate these results. Furthermore, the characteristics of auditory representation are discussed in the context of several psychoacoustical findings, together with the possible benefits of this model for various engineering applications. >
Two distinct defects in intracellular growth complemented by a single genetic locus in Legionella pneumophila

Legionella pneumophila mutants specifically defective for intracellular replication were isolated using an intracellular thymineless death enrichment strategy. Mutants belonging to two distinct phenotypic classes were unable to grow in macrophage‐like cultured cells. One class of mutants was defective for both inhibition of phagosome–lysosome fusion and association of host cell organelles with bacteria‐containing phagosomes (‘recruitment’). Another class of mutants was defective only for organelle recruitment, suggesting that recruitment may be necessary for intracellular growth. Recombinant clones were identified that complemented the intracellular growth defects of these mutants. A single genetic locus, designated dot (for defect in organelle trafficking), restored wild‐type phenotypes for intracellular growth, organelle recruitment, and inhibition of phagosome–lysosome fusion to mutants belonging to both phenotypic classes.
Shape Similarities and Differences in the Skulls of Scavenging Raptors

Feeding adaptations are a conspicuous feature of avian evolution. Bill and cranial shape as well as the jaw muscles are closely related to diet choice and feeding behaviors. Diurnal raptors of Falconiformes exhibit a wide range of foraging behaviors and prey preferences, and are assigned to seven dietary groups in this study. Skulls of 156 species are compared from the dorsal, lateral and ventral views, by using geometric morphometric techniques with those landmarks capturing as much information as possible on the overall shape of cranium, bill, orbits, nostrils and attachment area for different jaw muscles. The morphometric data showed that the skull shape of scavengers differ significantly from other raptors, primarily because of different feeding adaptations. As a result of convergent evolution, different scavengers share generalized common morphology, possessing relatively slender and lower skulls, longer bills, smaller and more sideward orbits, and more caudally positioned quadrates. Significant phylogenetic signals suggested that phylogeny also played important role in shape variation within scavengers. New World vultures can be distinguished by their large nostrils, narrow crania and small orbits; Caracaras typically show large palatines, crania and orbits, as well as short, deep and sharp bill.
Microstrip patch array antenna with inset fed and perturbation for a 3 GHz S-band coastal radar

Antenna is one of the most necessary parts in radar coastal application. Microstrip antena usually be chosen for that purpose because it is small, light, cheap, and easy to fabricate. But a conventional microstrip antenna is still inadequate to obtain higher gain and to minimize the beamwidth. So, in this research, for a 3 GHz S-Band coastal radar application, 4 modules of 2 × 6 patch array with inset fed and perturbation on each have been simulated to achieve the antenna specifications. A unidirectional radiation pattern has been chosen. By this improvement, the result gives antenna with gain = 17,6 dBi and return loss <-10 dB.
Antenatal supplementation with folic acid + iron + zinc improves linear growth and reduces peripheral adiposity in school-age children in rural Nepal.

BACKGROUND We previously reported that a randomized controlled trial of antenatal micronutrient supplements in rural Nepal decreased the risk of low birth weight by approximately 15%. OBJECTIVE The objective was to examine the effects of micronutrient supplementation on growth and body composition in children of supplemented mothers through school age. DESIGN Mothers received 1 of 5 micronutrient supplements daily: folic acid, folic acid + iron, folic acid + iron + zinc, multiple micronutrients, or a control. All of the supplements contained vitamin A. Children born during this trial were revisited at age 6-8 y to measure height, weight, midupper arm circumference, waist circumference, and triceps and subscapular skinfold thicknesses. Arm fat and muscle area were estimated by using standard formulas, and height-for-age, weight-for-age, and body mass index-for-age z scores were calculated by using the World Health Organization growth standard. RESULTS Of the 3771 surviving children, 3324 were revisited and consented to anthropometric measurements. Maternal supplementation with folic acid + iron + zinc resulted in an increase in mean height (0.64 cm; 95% CI: 0.04, 1.25) and a reduction in mean triceps skinfold thickness (-0.25 mm; 95% CI: -0.44, -0.06), subscapular skinfold thickness (-0.20 mm; 95% CI: -0.33, -0.06), and arm fat area (-0.18 cm(2); -0.34, -0.01). No significant differences were found between groups in mean weight or body mass index-for-age z scores, waist circumference, or arm muscle area. Other micronutrient combinations including a multiple micronutrient formulation failed to show a growth benefit. CONCLUSION Antenatal supplementation with zinc may benefit child growth, particularly in areas where a deficiency of this nutrient is common.
In vivo diffusion tensor imaging of the human prostate

This study demonstrates the feasibility of in vivo prostate diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in human subjects. We implemented an EPI‐based diffusion‐weighted (DW) sequence with seven‐direction diffusion gradient sensitization, and acquired DT images from six subjects using cardiac gating with a phased‐array prostate surface coil operating in a linear mode. We calculated two indices to quantify diffusion anisotropy. The direction of the eigenvector corresponding to the leading eigenvalue was displayed by means of a color‐coding scheme. The average diffusion values of the prostate peripheral zone (PZ) and central gland (CG) were 1.95 ± 0.08 × 10–3 mm2 s and 1.53 ± 0.34 × 10–3 mm2 s, respectively. The average fractional anisotropy (FA) values for the PZ and CG were 0.46 ± 0.04 and 0.40 ± 0.08, respectively. The diffusion ellipsoid in prostate tissue was anisotropic and approximated a prolate model, as shown in the color maps of the anisotropy. Consistent with the tissue architecture, the prostate fiber orientations were predominantly in the superior–inferior (SI) direction for both the PZ and CG. This study shows the feasibility of in vivo DTI and establishes normative DT values for six subjects. Magn Reson Med 52:530–537, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of vibration induced by cogging torque in permanent-magnet synchronous motors

Noise and vibration of electrical machines are a major concern for applications where comfort is a significant aspect. There are several faults that may arise in machines increasing noise and vibration. Cogging is one of the main faults in Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machines (PMSMs). Tools for the diagnosis of cogging are needed to detect the machines that do not fulfil the quality requirements. The usual methods found in bibliography to assess cogging are Motor Current Signature Analysis (MCSA) or directly measuring it by means of a torque sensor. This paper studies the feasibility of the alternative and unpublished method of vibration signals measured with accelerometers to evaluate cogging. In this paper a machine is designed and manufactured, in order to measure the effect of cogging in the vibration of the machine. The tested machine allows to apply several cogging levels, and the vibrations and the torque are measured with the machine running at several rotational speeds. Especially at lower rotational speeds, the effect of the cogging is clearly observed in the spectra of the torque. However, the spectra of the vibration signals do not show the effect of cogging torque, since at the cogging frequency the amplitudes do not correspond to the cogging levels.
Multi-method modeling

Frequently, the problem cannot completely conform to one of the three existing modeling paradigms (discrete event, system dynamics, or agent based modeling). Thinking in terms of a single-method modeling language, the modeler inevitably either starts using workarounds (unnatural and cumbersome constructs), or just leaves part of the problem outside the scope of the model (treats it as exogenous). If our goal is to capture business, economic, and social systems in their interaction, this becomes a serious limitation. In this paper we offer an overview of most used multi-method (or multi-paradigm) model architectures, discuss the technical aspects of linking different methods within one model, and consider examples of multi-method models. The modeling language of AnyLogic is used throughout the paper.
MIGRAINE AND MOTION SENSITIVITY

Migraine headache is often accompanied by dizziness or unsteadiness. For patients to be given a diagnosis of migraine-related dizziness (MRD), ie, dizziness attributable to migraine, they must meet International Headache Society criteria for migraine headache, have episodic or fluctuating symptoms highly suggestive of a balance disorder, have no recognized alternative otoneurological diagnosis, and experience migrainous symptoms during episodes of vertigo or imbalance. The pathophysiological basis for MRD may be related to interactions between pain pathways and vestibular pathways and abnormalities in the inner ear. MRD is treated by trigger avoidance, antimigrainous pharmaceutical agents, and physical therapy. MRD can occur as a comorbid disorder along with other, well-defined, neuro-otological disorders such as Ménière's disease. A subgroup of patients with MRD will manifest migraine, anxiety, and a balance disorder, a condition termed migraine-anxiety related dizziness. Motion sickness refers to autonomic and cognitive signs and symptoms that occur during exposure to certain moving environments. Although motion sickness is not a disease, it may result in disabling symptoms. The primary management of motion sickness is avoidance of the provocative stimuli. When motion sickness provocation cannot be avoided, antihistamines such as meclizine and benzodiazepines may provide significant relief.
Radiomics Analysis for Evaluation of Pathological Complete Response to Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer

Purpose: To develop and validate a radiomics model for evaluating pathologic complete response (pCR) to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). Experimental Design: We enrolled 222 patients (152 in the primary cohort and 70 in the validation cohort) with clinicopathologically confirmed LARC who received chemoradiotherapy before surgery. All patients underwent T2-weighted and diffusion-weighted imaging before and after chemoradiotherapy; 2,252 radiomic features were extracted from each patient before and after treatment imaging. The two-sample t test and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression were used for feature selection, whereupon a radiomics signature was built with support vector machines. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was then used to develop a radiomics model incorporating the radiomics signature and independent clinicopathologic risk factors. The performance of the radiomics model was assessed by its calibration, discrimination, and clinical usefulness with independent validation. Results: The radiomics signature comprised 30 selected features and showed good discrimination performance in both the primary and validation cohorts. The individualized radiomics model, which incorporated the radiomics signature and tumor length, also showed good discrimination, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.9756 (95% confidence interval, 0.9185–0.9711) in the validation cohort, and good calibration. Decision curve analysis confirmed the clinical utility of the radiomics model. Conclusions: Using pre- and posttreatment MRI data, we developed a radiomics model with excellent performance for individualized, noninvasive prediction of pCR. This model may be used to identify LARC patients who can omit surgery after chemoradiotherapy. Clin Cancer Res; 23(23); 7253–62. ©2017 AACR.
Views of the United States healthcare system: Findings from documentary analysis of an interprofessional education course

ABSTRACT As the healthcare system of the United States becomes more complex, collaboration among health professionals is becoming an essential aspect in improving the health of individuals and populations. An interprofessional education course entitled “Health Care System and Health Promotion” was developed to allow health profession students to work and learn together about issues related to healthcare delivery, health promotion, and the effect of policy issues on key stakeholders in the system. A qualitative document analysis research design was used to evaluate the effect of this interprofessional course on students’ views of the current healthcare system of the United States. Fifty-nine student articles were analysed using document analysis. Health professions represented in the sample included occupational therapy, physical therapy, athletic training, nursing, and radiation therapy, nuclear medicine technology, and magnetic resonance imaging. Eight themes were identified including: increased personal awareness, the need for a system change, concern for access, affordability of healthcare, vision for future practice role, need for quality care, the value of interprofessional collaboration (IPC), and the importance of disease prevention. The results of the study suggest that healthcare education can benefit from the integration of Interprofessional Education (IPE) courses into their curriculum especially when teaching content common to all healthcare professions such as healthcare systems and health promotion.
Impact of global uncertainty on the global economy and large developed and developing economies

ABSTRACT Global uncertainty shocks are associated with a sharp decline in global inflation, growth and interest rate. Global uncertainty shocks have more protracted, statistically significant and substantial effects on global growth, inflation and interest rate than U.S. uncertainty shocks. When controlling for domestic uncertainty, the decline in output following a rise in global uncertainty is statistically significant in each large country, except for the decline for China. For most economies, a positive shock to global uncertainty has a depressing effect on prices and official interest rates – exceptions are Brazil, Mexico and Russia, which are economies with large capital outflows during financial crises.
Hyperspectral Image Unmixing Based on Fast Kernel Archetypal Analysis

Restricted by the associated factors to spatial resolution in remote sensing, mixed pixels and relative pure pixels may both exist in hyperspectral images. In this paper, Kernel Archetypal Analysis (KAA) is investigated for flexible endmember extraction which implicitly takes the intraclass variability into account in relative pure pixel mapping and mixed pixel unmixing. As kernel matrix in KAA brings high computational cost, fast KAA (FKAA) is proposed in this study to relieve KAA's memory issue and reduce KAA's processing time using the Nyström method. Nyström method is used to realize low-rank approximation of the high-dimensional kernel matrix in KAA by using a small portion of informative samples obtained by K-means. Experiments were conducted on both synthetic and real hyperspectral images. The results show that both KAA and FKAA can generate representative endmembers from the mixed data. With proper parameter setting, they can address the intraclass endmember variability in endmember extraction and achieve more realistic unmixing results than conventional geometric methods. In particular, FKAA is able to speed up KAA without significant reduction in unmixing accuracy.
Angiotensin II type 1 receptor signalling regulates microRNA differentially in cardiac fibroblasts and myocytes

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) is a key regulator of blood pressure and cardiac contractility and is profoundly involved in development of cardiac disease. Since several microRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated in cardiac disease, we determined whether miRNAs might be regulated by AT1R signals in a Gαq/11‐dependent or ‐independent manner.
Long‐Term Effects of Aerobic Plus Resistance Training on the Metabolic Syndrome and Adiponectinemia in Obese Adolescents

The metabolic syndrome is an emerging clinical problem and different kinds of interventions have emphasized that healthy eating and exercise are crucial to its control. The aim of this study was to identify whether aerobic training plus resistance training (AT+RT) is more effective than AT on improving features of the metabolic syndrome and adiponectinemia in obese adolescents. A total of 30 adolescents (aged 15–19 years, body mass index ≥95 percentile) were enrolled in the program. All patients were diagnosed with the metabolic syndrome and submitted to 1 year of interdisciplinary intervention. They were divided into two groups: AT (n=15) and AT+RT (n=15). Blood samples were collected to analyze glycemia and lipid profiles. Adiponectin was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and insulin resistance was measured by homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index. After short‐ and long‐term intervention, both groups presented a significant reduction in body mass, body mass index, fat mass, and visceral fat. Indeed, the AT+RT group had significantly higher changes throughout the intervention in body composition, total cholesterol, waist circumference, glucose, and adiponectin. Although important clinical parameters were ameliorated with AT, the AT+RT group showed more effective improvements in metabolic profiles and adiponectinemia. These findings suggest a clinical role of AT+RT in the control of metabolic syndrome in pediatric populations. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2011;13:343–350. ©2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.