Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
EXPRESSION OF SELECTED LIPOGENIC GENES AND FATTY ACID TRANSPORTERS CHANGES ACROSS STAGES OF LACTATION IN DAIRY EWES

<p><strong>Background. </strong> During lactation the mammary fat synthesis is increased compared to adipose tissue. <strong>Objective. </strong> This study evaluated the promoter specific gene expression of acetyl-CoA carboxylase alpha (<em>ACACA</em>) transcripts from promoters II and III, fatty acid synthase (<em>FASN</em>), sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor 1 (<em>SREBF1</em>) in mammary gland and adipose tissue and, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (<em>PPARG</em>), fatty acid transporters acyl-CoA synthetase long chain family member 1 (<em>ACSL1</em>), solute carrier family 27 member 6 (<em>SLC27A6</em>), fatty acid binding proteins 3 and 4 (<em>FABP3</em> and <em>FABP4</em>), CD36 molecule (<em>CD36</em>) and lipoprotein lipase (<em>LPL</em>) in the mammary gland. <strong>Methodology. </strong> Eight Lacaune lactating ewes at 15, 70, and 120 days in milk (DIM) were used. <strong>Results. </strong> There was no effect of tissue, lactation stage, or tissue by lactation stage interaction for PIII <em>ACACA</em> transcripts. Mammary PII transcripts changed according to stage of lactation with higher expression at 15 than 120 DIM. In adipose tissue at 120 DIM, expression of PII <em>ACACA</em> transcripts were higher than 15 and 70 DIM. Expression of <em>FASN</em> in adipose tissue was higher at 70 and 120 DIM when compared to mammary tissue at 120 DIM. The <em>SREBF1</em> expression at 70 was higher than 15 DIM in mammary tissue and higher than 70 DIM in adipose tissue. In the mammary gland, the gene expression of <em>LPL</em>, <em>CD36</em> and <em>FABP3</em> was decreased from 15 to 120 DIM. <strong>Implications. </strong> Collectively, our results highlight the fact that in early lactation (15 to 70 DIM) milk fat synthesis is prioritized over adipose tissue in dairy sheep. <strong>Conclusion. </strong> This prioritization is managed through an orchestrated increase in mammary gene expression of <em>ACACA</em> transcripts, <em>FASN</em>, <em>SREBF1</em>, <em>LPL</em>, <em>CD36,</em> and <em>FABP3</em>. </p>
The effect of validation and invalidation on positive and negative affective experiences

ABSTRACT Validation communicates that another’s experiences make sense and are understood, while invalidation dismisses the validity of an individual’s experience. Validation has the potential to preserve positive affect in the face of interpersonal stressors. We aimed to assess and replicate the effect of validation/invalidation on changes in affective experiences. We conducted three experimental studies in which participants were randomized to have their experiences of anger either validated or invalidated. We examined the effects of condition on changes in positive and negative affect as well as global mood. Participants in the validation conditions reported lower decreases in positive affect and mood over the course of the experiment compared to participants in the invalidation conditions. We did not find significant between-condition differences on negative affect. These studies highlight the importance of validation as a communication strategy to buffer against decreases in positive affective experiences after a stressor.
Estimation of LAI with the LiDAR Technology: A Review

Leaf area index (LAI) is an important vegetation parameter. Active light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology has been widely used to estimate vegetation LAI. In this study, LiDAR technology, LAI retrieval and validation methods, and impact factors are reviewed. First, the paper introduces types of LiDAR systems and LiDAR data preprocessing methods. After introducing the application of different LiDAR systems, LAI retrieval methods are described. Subsequently, the review discusses various LiDAR LAI validation schemes and limitations in LiDAR LAI validation. Finally, factors affecting LAI estimation are analyzed. The review presents that LAI is mainly estimated from LiDAR data by means of the correlation with the gap fraction and contact frequency, and also from the regression of forest biophysical parameters derived from LiDAR. Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) can be used to effectively estimate the LAI and vertical foliage profile (VFP) within plots, but this method is affected by clumping, occlusion, voxel size, and woody material. Airborne laser scanning (ALS) covers relatively large areas in a spatially contiguous manner. However, the capability of describing the within-canopy structure is limited, and the accuracy of LAI estimation with ALS is affected by the height threshold and sampling size, and types of return. Spaceborne laser scanning (SLS) provides the global LAI and VFP, and the accuracy of estimation is affected by the footprint size and topography. The use of LiDAR instruments for the retrieval of the LAI and VFP has increased; however, current LiDAR LAI validation studies are mostly performed at local scales. Future research should explore new methods to invert LAI and VFP from LiDAR and enhance the quantitative analysis and large-scale validation of the parameters.
Sensitivity analysis to evaluate the impact of uncertain factors in a scenario tree model for classical swine fever virus introduction into The Netherlands

The main aim of this model is to provide a better understanding of the importance of the different introduction routes for CSFV. This study showed that group screening combined with the statistical techniques of DOE and metamodelling proved to be an effective and efficient screening method to identify those uncertain input parameters in the scenario tree model for CSFV introduction that influenced model results most. Only 128 scenario calculations were needed to specify the final metamodel. It was concluded that four uncertain input parameters change the ranking of risk factors contributing most to the annual PCSFV and thus require a more accurate estimate of their values to make model outcome robust.
Multiple mutations acquired into canine RecQ-like helicases encoded by the aneuploid genome of transmissible sarcoma

Sticker sarcoma – a highly aneuploid, contagious neoplasm circulating in a domestic dog population - is broadly referred as a canine transmissible venereal tumour (CTVT). The karyotype of transmissible Sticker sarcoma appears as a collage of numerical and structural aberrations; the CTVT genome represents the generalized but stable neoplastic aneuploidy of monoclonal origins. Presented is an analysis of genetic events and variants underlying the aneuploid genomic structure of Sticker sarcoma described previously by Murchison et al. (2014) and Decker et al. (2015). Here we explored the above CTVT genomic compendia and mined the existing data - specifically looking for cases of convergence of multiple non-synonymous variants onto a single gene - the mutational patterns indicative for Knudsonian ‘two-hit’ kinetics. A Table I is given, providing theoretical estimates of retaining the intact wild-type copy, expected as a function of a cumulative mutational convergence observed in unphased sequence consensus. We demonstrate that the two canine RecQ-like helicases: Bloom syndrome helicase and RECQL4, encoded by the aneuploid transmissible tumour, have accumulated a multitude of different mutations. Among the sets of most intensely mutated transmissible sarcoma genes, we also identified a canine FANCD2 – yet another previously unnoticed multiple-hit candidate factor. We discuss a possible role of mutated RecQ-like helicases and other cooperating factors, perceivably involved in the maintenance of the neoplastic aneuploidy. We suggest the proposed cooperative actions of CTVT RecQ-like DNA helicases could be relevant interpreting whether variants contributing to RecQ-dependent karyotypic traits, respond to selective pressures that preserve the aneuploid genomic structure of transmissible Sticker sarcoma.
Length–weight relations for 20 fish species (Actinopterygii) from the southern Ionian Sea, Greece

Length–weight relations are presented for 20 fish species caught by small-scale fishery from the southern Ionian Sea (Greece) including a marine protected area from 2013 to 2017. The following species were studied: Spicara maena (Linnaeus, 1758); Labrus merula Linnaeus, 1758; Symphodus tinca (Linnaeus, 1758); Xyrichtys novacula (Linnaeus, 1758); Mullus surmuletus Linnaeus, 1758; Phycis phycis (Linnaeus, 1766); Sparisoma cretense (Linnaeus, 1758); Scorpaena scrofa Linnaeus, 1758; Serranus scriba (Linnaeus, 1758); Siganus luridus (Rüppell, 1829); Diplodus sargus (Linnaeus, 1758); Diplodus vulgaris (Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1817); Pagellus acarne (Risso, 1827); Pagellus erythrinus (Linnaeus, 1758); Pagrus pagrus (Linnaeus, 1758); Spondyliosoma cantharus (Linnaeus, 1758); Dentex dentex (Linnaeus, 1758); Synodus saurus (Linnaeus, 1758); Trachinus radiatus Cuvier, 1829; Uranoscopus scaber Linnaeus, 1758. The main fishing gears that were involved in the data collection were trammel nets and longlines that were set in the sea during all seasons of the year. A total of 3510 specimens belonging to 12 families were examined. For two species (Labrus merula and Xyrichtys novacula) the maximum total body length reported in our study was higher than the one reported in the literature. To our knowledge, the length–weight relations for all the 20 fish species are the first to be reported from this area. Thus this contribution can serve as a baseline for monitoring, conservation and management efforts in this region, which is well known for its prime ecological importance.
Relationship between the self-efficacy and the stages of the decision-making process: analysis of the future managers' perception

Purpose – This study analyzes the relationship between self-efficacy and the stages of the decision-making process, based on the perception of the undergraduate students in bachelor degree in Business Administration. Design/methodology/approach – It characterizes as a descriptive research, with a quantitative approach, using the Structural Equation Modeling technique, and data collection performed through a survey. Findings – The results indicate an association between self-efficacy and the stages of the decision-making process, allowing partial acceptance of the research hypothesis. In this sense, Effectiveness towards Adversity and Social Efficacy are shown as elements to be observed in terms of developing skills, which enable the students to realize such constructs, since there is a significant relationship with behavior in the decision making process. Thus, self-efficacy is presented as a propeller of the individual's confidence in the challenges and experiences with interpersonal relationships, whose experience supports the cognitive process which enables the recognition of the situation and the actions to be developed. Moreover, it is worth noticing the relevance of considering behavioral aspects in decision-making studies; regarding to, as well, the current discussions about the limitations of rational decision models. Research limitations/implications – The cross-section time frame and the sample composition of academics at a university are limitations that can be overcome in the future. Originality/value - Analyzing the relationship of self-efficacy with the stages of the decision-making process becomes relevant, since it brings contributions on the relationship of subjective abilities with decision making, in order to highlight characteristics not covered by rational decision-making models.
UK adaptive radiotherapy practices for head and neck cancer patients

Objective: To provide evidence on the extent and manner in which adaptive practices have been employed in the UK and identify the main barriers for the clinical implementation of adaptive radiotherapy (ART) in head and neck (HN) cancer cases. Methods: In December 2019, a Supplementary Material 1, of 23 questions, was sent to all UK radiotherapy centres (67). This covered general information to current ART practices and perceived barriers to implementation. Results: 31 centres responded (46%). 56% responding centres employed ART for between 10 and 20 patients/annum. 96% of respondents were using CBCT either alone or with other modalities for assessing “weight loss” and “shell gap,” which were the main reasons for ART. Adaptation usually occurs at week three or four during the radiotherapy treatment. 25 responding centres used an online image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) approach and 20 used an offline ad hoc ART approach, either with or without protocol level. Nearly 70% of respondents required 2 to 3 days to create an adaptive plan and 95% used 3–5 mm adaptive planning target volume margins. All centres performed pre-treatment QA. “Limited staff resources” and “lack of clinical relevance” were identified as the two main barriers for ART implementation. Conclusion: There is no consensus in adaptive practice for HN cancer patients across the UK. For those centres not employing ART, similar clinical implementation barriers were identified. Advances in knowledge: An insight into contemporary UK practices of ART for HN cancer patients indicating national guidance for ART implementation for HN cancer patients may be required
Real-Time Wave Excitation Forces Estimation: An Application on the ISWEC Device

Optimal control strategies represent a widespread solution to increase the extracted energy of a Wave Energy Converter (WEC). The aim is to bring the WEC into resonance enhancing the produced power without compromising its reliability and durability. Most of the control algorithms proposed in literature require for the knowledge of the Wave Excitation Force (WEF) generated from the incoming wave field. In practice, WEFs are unknown, and an estimate must be used. This paper investigates the WEF estimation of a non-linear WEC. A model-based and a model-free approach are proposed. First, a Kalman Filter (KF) is implemented considering the WEC linear model and the WEF modelled as an unknown state to be estimated. Second, a feedforward Neural Network (NN) is applied to map the WEC dynamics to the WEF by training the network through a supervised learning algorithm. Both methods are tested for a wide range of irregular sea-states showing promising results in terms of estimation accuracy. Sensitivity and robustness analyses are performed to investigate the estimation error in presence of un-modelled phenomena, model errors and measurement noise.
Route Planning for Agricultural Machines with Multiple Depots: Manure Application Case Study

Capacitated field operations involve input/output material flows where there are capacity constraints in the form of a specific load that a vehicle can carry. As such, a specific normal-sized field cannot be covered in one single operation using only one load, and the vehicle needs to get serviced (i.e., refilling) from out-of-field facilities (depot). Although several algorithms have been developed to solve the routing problem of capacitated operations, these algorithms only considered one depot. The general goal of this paper is to develop a route planning tool for agricultural machines with multiple depots. The tool presented consists of two modules: the first one regards the field geometrical representation in which the field is partitioned into tracks and headland passes; the second one regards route optimization that is implemented by the metaheuristic simulated annealing (SA) algorithm. In order to validate the developed tool, a comparison between a well-known route planning approach, namely B-pattern, and the algorithm presented in this study was carried out. The results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms the B-pattern by up to 20.0% in terms of traveled nonworking distance. The applicability of the tool developed was tested in a case study with seven scenarios differing in terms of locations and number of depots. The results of this study illustrated that the location and number of depots significantly affect the total nonworking traversal distance during a field operation.
The Role of ICT in Intergenerational Learning between Immigrant Youth and Non-related Older Adults: Experiences from Sweden

ABSTRACT This paper seeks to extend discussion on ICT and intergenerational learning by examining the experiences of unrelated older adults and immigrant youths participating in the community-based “ICT Guides” project in Gothenburg, Sweden. I claim that ICT-supported learning between unrelated older adults and immigrant youths eliminates intergenerational and cultural distances and supports functional intergenerational solidarity. It is also a significant platform for empowerment and reciprocal learning. ICT within intergenerational learning facilitates better interaction and understanding between older adults and immigrant youths, despite language difficulties and different cultural backgrounds, changing it from a catalyst and for intergenerational learning to a means of facilitating intercultural support.
Immediate effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on scapular dyskinesia of volleyball players

Background: Scapular dyskinesia can be caused by several factors, such as poor posture (thoracic kyphosis or cervical hyperlordosis) or changes in the activation and coordination of the scapular stabilizing muscles. Therefore, the term is correctly used when there is a change in the scapular biomechanics at rest or during movement. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of PNF on scapular dyskinesia of volleyball players. Methods: This is a quasi-experimental study with volleyball players. The study sample consisted of 32 individuals of both sexes, with ages between 14 and 17 years who presented scapular dyskinesia, identified by anamnesis and physical examination. To collect data, a sociodemographic evaluation developed by the researchers was used, containing personal data, pain evaluation through the Nordic Pain Questionnaire, and an image and video record was made for the analysis of photogrammetry and the Scapular Dyskinesia Test. For the data analysis a significance level of 5% was adopted. Results: Most of the sample (71.9%) practiced volleyball for more than a year, 65.6% trained three times a week, 84.4% were attackers, 96.9% were right-handed and 100% of the sample presented pain symptoms in the last twelve months. There was a significant difference in the abduction test of both scapulae and in the weight discharge of the right upper limb after the protocol. Conclusion: PNF has been shown to be effective in the initial phase of the treatment of scapular dyskinesia acting on neuromuscular balance and scapular orientation.
Latency-Aware DU/CU Placement in Convergent Packet-Based 5G Fronthaul Transport Networks

The 5th generation mobile networks (5G) based on virtualized and centralized radio access networks will require cost-effective and flexible solutions for satisfying high-throughput and latency requirements. The next generation fronthaul interface (NGFI) architecture is one of the main candidates to achieve it. In the NGFI architecture, baseband processing is split and performed in radio (RU), distributed (DU), and central (CU) units. The mentioned entities are virtualized and performed on general-purpose processors forming a processing pool (PP) facility. Given that the location of PPs may be spread over the network and the PPs have limited capacity, it leads to the optimization problem concerning the placement of DUs and CUs. In the NGFI network scenario, the radio data between the RU, DU, CU, and a data center (DC)—in which the traffic is aggregated—are transmitted in the form of packets over a convergent packet-switched network. Because the packet transmission is nondeterministic, special attention should be put on ensuring the appropriate quality of service (QoS) levels for the latency-sensitive traffic flows. In this paper, we address the latency-aware DU and CU placement (LDCP) problem in NGFI. LDCP concerns the placement of DU/CU entities in PP nodes for a given set of demands assuming the QoS requirements of traffic flows that are related to their latency. To this end, we make use of mixed integer linear programming (MILP) in order to formulate the LDCP optimization problem and to solve it. To assure that the latency requirements are satisfied, we apply a reliable latency model, which is included in the MILP model as a set of constraints. To assess the effectiveness of the MILP method and analyze the network performance, we run a broad set of experiments in different network scenarios.
A comparative study between variable and fixed angle volar locking plates in management of unstable intra-articular distal radius fractures

Background: The current study is conducted to assess and compare the radiological and functional outcomes between variable and fixed angle volar plating in unstable intra-articular distal radius fractures. Methods: A prospective study was conducted from May 2018 to May 2020. A total of 156 patients were randomised into two groups A and B of 78 patients each. The plates were T or oblique fixed angle volar plate in group A and variable angle volar plate in group B. Patients were followed up for minimum 12 months. The functional outcome was measured by patient rated hand wrist evaluation score (PRHWE) and radiological outcome by radial height, volar tilt and radial inclination. The secondary objective was to correlate complications. Results: In our study average PRHWE score was better in group B (p<0.05). Radial height, volar tilt, radial inclination was much closer to anatomical wrist radiology was seen in group B. The most common complication was finger and wrist stiffness in group A. Conclusions: Patients treated with variable angle volar plate showed better results in functional and radiological outcomes at 12 months follow-up but limitations include short duration of follow up.
A 375MW Modulator for a 150MW Klystron at the S-Band Linear Collider Testfacility at DESY

The S-Band linear collider testfacility at DESY serves as a testbed for components which will be necessary to build an S-Band linear collider. The testfacility requires two S-Band klystrons operating at 2.998GHz, each producing an output power of 150MW at a pulse duration of 3μs and a repetition rate of 50Hz. The high voltage pulses for the klystrons will be supplied by two line type modulators, which produce pulses of up to 535kV at currents of 700A with a flat top duration of 3μs and a repetition rate of 50Hz. The first klystron-modulator system has been installed and was commissioned at the S-Band testfacility at DESY. This paper describes the layout and the hardware of the klystron-modulator system. The results of the commissioning of the first system will be presented.