Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Protective Potential of Grape Seed Proanthocyandins Extract against Glivec (Imatinib Mesylate) Induced Liver Toxicity and Oxidative Stress in Male Rats

Objectives: Glivec (Imatinib mesylate) an antineoplastic chemotherapeutic agent used in the treatment of many types of cancer. The current study examines the hepatoprotective potential of grape seed proanthocyandins extract (GSPE) against Glivec induced oxidative stress and toxicity in male albino rats. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 male albino rats were equally divided into four groups; group 1 was control, group 2 was GSPE group (rats received orally GSPE by stomach tube {50 mg/kg Original Research Article Al-Rasheed et al.; ARRB, 20(6): 1-9, 2017; Article no.ARRB. 37766 2 BW/twice a week} for four week), group 3 was Glivec group (rats were injected intraperitoneally with Glivec {1 mg /kg B W/twice a week} for four weeks) and group 4 was rats treated with GSPE plus Glivec for four weeks. Results: LD50 was calculated for Glivec in rats (estimated at 598 mg/kg), presenting confidence limits between 588 and 612 mg/kg body weight. A significant increase in the liver TBARS and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and γglutamyltransferase (GGT) activities in Glivec group when compared with the control group. On the other hand; a significant decrease in the serum albumin, globulin, total protein, liver superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-trasferase (GST) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in Glivec group when compared with the control group. Administration of GSPE with Glivec caused a protective and ameliorative effect against Glivec induced liver toxicity. Conclusions: Treatment with GSPE has a promising role for ameliorating the oxidative stress and hepatic injury induced by Glivec.
Impact of COVID-19 response on global surgical volumes: an ongoing observational study

Abstract Objective To determine whether location-linked anaesthesiology calculator mobile application (app) data can serve as a qualitative proxy for global surgical case volumes and therefore monitor the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods We collected data provided by users of the mobile app “Anesthesiologist” during 1 October 2018–30 June 2020. We analysed these using RStudio and generated 7-day moving-average app use plots. We calculated country-level reductions in app use as a percentage of baseline. We obtained data on COVID-19 case counts from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. We plotted changing app use and COVID-19 case counts for several countries and regions. Findings A total of 100 099 app users within 214 countries and territories provided data. We observed that app use was reduced during holidays, weekends and at night, correlating with expected fluctuations in surgical volume. We observed that the onset of the pandemic prompted substantial reductions in app use. We noted strong cross-correlation between COVID-19 case count and reductions in app use in low- and middle-income countries, but not in high-income countries. Of the 112 countries and territories with non-zero app use during baseline and during the pandemic, we calculated a median reduction in app use to 73.6% of baseline. Conclusion App data provide a proxy for surgical case volumes, and can therefore be used as a real-time monitor of the impact of COVID-19 on surgical capacity. We have created a dashboard for ongoing visualization of these data, allowing policy-makers to direct resources to areas of greatest need.
Ice-nucleating particles impact the severity of precipitations in West Texas

Abstract. Ice-nucleating particles (INPs) influence the formation of ice crystals in clouds and many types of precipitation. However, our knowledge of the relationship between INPs and precipitation is still insufficient. This study was conducted to fill this gap by assessing precipitation properties and INP concentrations (nINP) from a total of 42 precipitation events observed in the Texas Panhandle region from June 2018 to July 2019. We used a cold-stage instrument called the West Texas Cryogenic Refrigerator Applied to Freezing Test system to estimate nINP through immersion freezing in our precipitation samples. A disdrometer was used to measure the precipitation intensity and size of precipitating particles during each precipitation event. The analysis of yearlong precipitation properties as well as INPs for the samples shed a light on the seasonal variation of the nINP values in West Texas. Furthermore, we characterized the bacteria speciation of the storm and ambient dust samples collected at a commercial feedlot in West Texas to identify potential biological sources of INPs in our precipitation samples. Overall, our results showed a positive correlation between nINP and intensity of precipitation with notably large hydrometeor sizes in storm precipitations. Amongst all observed precipitation types, the highest INPs were found in the snow samples, and hail/thunderstorm samples have the highest INPs at high temperature −5°C.
Inclusion of Different Molecular Weight Condensed Tannin on Ruminal Fermentation and Milk Fatty Acid Profile of Dairy Goats

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of condensed tannin (CTs) with 13 differing molecular weight on their capacity to modify the fatty acid profile in milk. Twenty 14 multiparous crossbred lactating dairy goats were assigned in a randomized complete block 15 design (RCBD), and were subjected to receive the dietary treatments as followings; T1: control 16 (with no CTs supplementation), T2: supplemented with mangosteen peel in a concentrate as a 17 source of low molecular weight CTs at level of 3.0 %DM of CTs equivalent, T3: supplemented 18 with the same diet with T2 but added with polyethylene glycol (PEG, as tannin inactivator) as 19 the control of T2, and T4: supplemented with quebracho CT extract (UNITAN ATO, Buenos 20 Aires, Argentina; 75-77 % tannins) in a concentrate as a source of high molecular weight CTs 21 at level of 3.0 %DM of CTs equivalent, and T5) supplemented with the same diet with T4 but 22 added with PEG as the control of T4. No significant change was detected for feed intake and 23 nutrient digestibility indicate that CTs at level of 3.0 %DM of diet did not showed the 24 Preprints (www.preprints.org) | NOT PEER-REVIEWED | Posted: 20 September 2020 © 2020 by the author(s). Distributed under a Creative Commons CC BY license. 2 detrimental effect to feed intake and nutrient digestibility, however, ruminal fermentation 1 parameters and milk yield and milk compositions did not affected by different source of CT 2 inclusion. 3 4
Towards efficient federated learning‐based scheme in medical cyber‐physical systems for distributed data

In recent years, Cyber‐Physical Systems (CPS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have made good progress in the medical field. The medical CPS (MCPS) based on AI can realize the efficient and reasonable utilization of medical resources and improve the quality of medical process. However, current MCPS are still facing several challenges, and the privacy protection of medical data is one of the most critical challenges. Since medical data is stored in different hospitals, most studies collect data from decentralized hospitals to train a disease diagnosis model, which is not conducive to the privacy protection of patients. And in some existing solutions, it is also difficult for doctors to select the optimal model from multiple models in clinical diagnosis. In this paper, we propose a novel scheme based on federated learning in MCPS for training disease diagnosis models from distributed medical image data. Our scheme is divided into three parts: the model provider, the server, and the consumer, and a detailed working process is designed for each part. This scheme can not only effectively solve the problem of privacy protection, but also solve the problem of model selection for doctors and save storage space. It can ensure that consumers automatically get a steadily improved disease diagnosis model. This scheme is performed on simulated distributed medical image datasets. The experimental results show the effectiveness and superiority of our scheme.
A Novel 5G LTE Antenna Design for Portable Devices

This paper presents the low profile, planar, and small-size antenna design for WWAN, LTE, and 5G (5th generation wireless systems) for use in portable communication equipment. The antenna occupies only 65 × 13 × 0.4 mm3, and the antenna is combined with a 200 × 260 mm2 copper plate to simulated system ground plane. In the low band, a direct-fed right-side arm and a coupled-fed arm implemented can excite a 1/4 λ fundamental resonant mode at 0.85 and 0.76 GHz to cover 0.698–0.96 GHz and upper 3/4 λ and 5/4 λ resonant modes are controlled by L-shaped element at 2.34, 2.69, 3.4, and 4.0 GHz to cover 1.71–2.69 GHz and 3.2–4.2 GHz. The direct-fed left-side arm produced 1/4 λ to cover 5.15–5.85 GHz. In far-field measured, peak gain and efficiency in low, middle, and high bands are 0.43–5.67 dBi and 55–86%. Finally, experiments demonstrate that the present antenna exhibits a good performance for portable devices.
Secure and efficient routing on nodes, edges, and arcs of simple‐graphs and of multi‐graphs

Many security companies offer patrolling services, such that guards inspect facilities or streets on a regular basis. Patrolling routes should be cost efficient, but the inspection patterns should not be predictable for offenders. We introduce this setting as a multi‐objective periodic mixed capacitated general routing problem with objectives being cost minimization and route inconsistency maximization. The problem is transformed into an asymmetric capacitated vehicle routing problem, on both a simple‐graph and a multi‐graph; and three multi‐objective frameworks using adaptive large neighborhood search are implemented to solve it. As tests with both artificial and real‐world instances show that some frameworks perform better for some indicators, a hybrid search procedure, combining two of them, is developed and benchmarked against the individual solution methods. Generally, results indicate that considering more than one shortest path between nodes, can significantly increase solution quality for smaller instances, but is quickly becoming a detriment for larger instances.
Problem-based learning: Effects on academic performance and perceptions of engineering students in computer sciences

In the present article we analyse the impact of problem-based learning (PBL) on learning and perceptions in first-year students undertaking Engineering in Computer Sciences. The module designed took a number of advanced theories of PBL and its application within the Engineering profession. Mixed methods were used to enable data from qualitative and quantitative instruments to be obtained. A quasi-experimental design was specified, employing non-probabilistic sampling, with a control (N = 40) and experimental group (N = 39). In comparing PBL with traditional methods, the results reveal statistically significant differences in aspects such as academic performance. Teamwork, oral communication, written communication and students’ perceptions of the learning experience were also all favoured. Nonetheless, lack of adequate team dynamics in previous learning experiences and reluctance to change traditional teaching approaches, could compromise the viability of that proposed.
Random Number Generator with Long-Range Dependence and Multifractal Behavior Based on Memristor

Random number generators are used in areas such as encryption and system modeling, where some of these exhibit fractal behaviors. For this reason, it is interesting to make use of the memristor characteristics for the random number generation. Accordingly, the objective of this article is to evaluate the performance of a chaotic memristive system as a random number generator with fractal behavior and long-range dependence. To achieve the above, modeling memristor and its corresponding chaotic systems is performed, from which a random number generator is constructed. Subsequently, the Hurst parameter for the detection of long-range dependence is estimated and a fractal analysis of the synthesized data is performed. Finally, a comparison between the model proposed in the research and the β-MWM algorithm is made. The results obtained show that the data synthesized from the proposed generator have a variable Hurst parameter and both monofractal and multifractal behavior. The main contribution of this research is the proposal of a new model for the synthesis of traces with long-range dependence and fractal behavior based on the non-linearity of the memristor.
Local climate mediates spatial and temporal variation in carabid beetle communities in three forests in Mount Odaesan, Korea

1. Global environmental change can dramatically alter the composition of floral and faunal communities, and elucidating the mechanisms underlying this process is important for predicting its outcomes. Studies on global climate change have mostly focused on statistical summaries within wide spatial and temporal scales; less attention has been paid to variability in microclimates at narrower spatial and temporal scales.
Reflective Model of Brand Awareness on Repurchase Intention and Customer Satisfaction

This study aims to analyze and confirm brand awareness’ role in influencing the repurchase intention both directly and indirectly on customer satisfaction variables and repurchase intention variables. The contribution brought by this study is to reflect manifest variables such as recall, purchase, and consumption. The number of respondents in this study was 200 samples using the online survey data collection method (Google form), while the research approach is quantitative explanatory. The data analysis test tools include the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach with AMOS as a statistical data analysis software and Sobel test to indirectly test the relationship. This study consists of four hypotheses, of which three hypotheses are positively and significantly related (brand awareness on repurchase intention, brand awareness on customer satisfaction, and customer satisfaction on repurchase intention). Through indirect relationship, namely, brand awareness on repurchase intention through customer satisfaction, the study showed no significant effect. In a comprehensive way, this study emphasizes the factor of customer satisfaction as a determinant of consumer loyalty and repurchase intention. Therefore, creating optimal customer satisfaction, service excellence, promotion and massive advertising, guaranteeing the safety and ease-of-use apps, and ease of shopping, especially for e-commerce industry, is a serious concern.
Economic and stochastic efficiency analysis of alternative cover crop systems in Louisiana

Summary Landowners can engage in voluntary conservation with the help of incentive programs. Recommended conservation practices are selected based on management intentions as well as the contribution of those practices to the overall net returns. However, conservation motives are heterogeneous and based on individual risk behavior. Existing cost-share programs might either under-fund or over-fund conservation, which could lead to inefficient management of natural resources. The current analysis evaluates the economic feasibility of variable cover crop strategies, multiple seeding rates, within a soybean production system in silt loam and clay soils. The study utilizes stochastic efficiency with respect to a function, referred to as SERF, for determining the preferred strategies under various risk preferences. The SERF method accounts for the heterogeneity of individual decision-making with regards to conservation adoption. Results indicate that most risk-averse farmers chose tillage radish with medium seeding rate as their preferred strategy. However, as the risk-bearing capacity of an individual increases, the current level of incentives does not motivate to implement conservation. The most preferred plan for risk-neutral farmers is the fallow system in both silt loam and clay soils. The economic and risk assessment framework can improve understanding of the temporal dynamics of different practices and inform policy on conservation structure that promotes agricultural systems that are economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable.
Development of a new technology for protective biofortification with selenium of Brassica crops.

Selenium (Se) has been proved to be an essential micronutrient for animals and microorganisms. Se is considered a beneficial element for plants, determining plant growth increase and enhanced response to biotic and abiotic stress. Se biofortification of food chain is considered essential for global health, but when applied on Brassicaceae family plants is interfering with sulfur (S) metabolism, reducing the accumulation of valuable S-phytonutrients. Moreover, Se-based biostimulants were acting first as potent pro-oxidants, bleaching the treated plants. Based on accumulated knowledge regarding cross-talking between Se and S assimilation pathways, we propose the development of a new biotechnological approach for protective biofortification of Brassica crops. The aim of this study was to develop new formulations of biostimulants, based on mixtures of betaine, selenium salt and spraying adjuvant, applied on cruciferous plants, in order to obtain safe functional food with enhanced chemopreventive compounds. We treated cabbage seedlings with different variants of biostimulants, we performed plant morphometric analysis and we determined the selenium content by atomic absorption spectroscopy, the glucosinolate and sulfur aminoacid content by HPLC and we evaluated plant antitumoral activity in Caco-2 human carcinoma cell line. The results of the qualitative and quantitative chemical determinations of spectroscopy and chromatography allowed us to select the mixture of 10 μM Na2O4Se, 10 mM betaine and 1% adjuvant, as optimal biostimulant formula that induced an equilibrated content of chemopreventive compounds in cabbage seedlings. Biological in vitro tests demonstrated that the obtained biofortified cabbage seedlings had enhanced antitumoral activity in Caco-2 human carcinoma cell line, compared to water-treated seedlings. In conclusion, we recommend a protective biofortification biotechnology based on selenium salts, betaine and spraying adjuvant to be tested in the field, on cruciferous crops of both cabbage and cauliflower.
Femoral Neck Fracture Fixation Failure: A Review and Stepwise Approach

Femoral neck fractures are challenging injuries to treat, as they commonly involve high-energy trauma mechanisms and displaced fracture patterns. Despite the effective treatment techniques and devices available to fix these fractures, the cases of fixation failure following femoral neck fractures are not uncommon. The most important underlying causes of fixation failure include nonunion, avascular necrosis, reoperation, infection, and implant failure. The management of this condition depends mainly on the features of the patient and fracture. In this educational corner, we are aimed to present a review of and stepwise approach to the management of fixation failure following femoral neck fracture.
The Potential Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Activity of Oleanolic Acid in the Hydroethanolic Extract of Crataegus monogyna Jacq

The hydroethanolic extract of Crataegus monogyna was studied for its chemical constitution and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity. The extract contained triterpenic acids, flavonoids and coumarins. The ACE inhibitory activity was studied using captropril, as a control drug, and oleanolic acid, as a constituent of the hydroethanolic extract and a member of the triterpenic acid group. The hydroethanolic extract and oleanolic acid showed higher IC50 values (335.00 μg/mL and 3.61 μM, respectively) in comparison to captopril (46.9 nM). However, these results indicate the anti-ACE activity of oleanolic acid and the triterpenic acids, which has not been demonstrated earlier for hawthorn extracts. In previous studies, the ACE inhibitory activity of C. monogyna extracts was always attributed to flavonoids and proanthocyanidins.
Components Associated With Saltiness Potentiation in Frankfurters Made With Traditionally Brewed Soy Sauce

Salt is a critical ingredient in processed meat and poultry products because of its multiple functions that affect product quality and safety. Although salt is a functional ingredient in food products, sodium reduction continues to be an important topic within the food industry due to interests in reducing dietary sodium intake. Previous work has shown that soy sauce addition may potentiate saltiness perception in processed meats and thus allow for novel formulations with reduced sodium content. Two studies were conducted to further elucidate these effects. First, trained panel sensory characteristics, relevant quality parameters, and selected chemical profiles were determined comparing frankfurters containing flake salt and traditionally brewed soy sauce. Seven aqueous compounds were found to bemore abundant (P< 0.001) in the soy sauce–containing treatment, and 56 volatile compounds were identified. Principal component analysis of the sensory and selected chemical profiles led to the consideration that ethyl hexanoate (EHEX) may be a causative agent of the saltiness-potentiating phenomenon. Thus, a second study further evaluated concentrations of EHEX, revealing that trained sensory panelists perceived frankfurters containing EHEX as saltier (P< 0.05) and these frankfurters had higher scores for fermented/sour aromatic score (P< 0.05) than the control (Control: 100% NaCl from flake salt). This research demonstrated the ability of EHEX to potentiate saltiness in frankfurters with minimal effects on quality.
Building Successful NGO–Business Relationships: A Social Capital Perspective

While NGO – business relationships have much in common with buyer – supplier relationships, the literature speciﬁcally indicates several additional challenges in achieving effective and efﬁcient NGO – business relationships. The present study seeks to understand how NGOs and businesses can overcome these additional challenges. From a practitioner ’ s viewpoint, we not only strive to acknowledge the complementarity of NGOs and businesses for implementing successful relationship practices but also seek to understand how these understudied cross-sector relationships can be successfully built. We use a multicase study design to investigate nine NGO – business relationships in a humanitarian context. This study contributes to the supply chain literature by demonstrating how social capital mitigates tensions within NGO – business relationships, that is, by indicating that social capital has not only a bonding, but also a bridging role when building cross-sec-toral relationships. In summary, our analysis enabled us to present a more generic process framework for creating social capital within NGO – business relationships. It shows that trust within NGO – business relationships appears to develop more naturally compared to commercial relationships, but that these relationships require more effort in terms of structural and cognitive capital to ensure that partners communicate and share knowledge efﬁciently, as there are inherent differences in goals and communication languages between NGOs and businesses.