Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A data fusion Kalman filter algorithm to estimate leaf area index evolution by using Modis LAI and PROBA–V top of canopy synthesis data

Leaf Area Index (LAI) is essential in ecosystem and agronomic studies, since it measures energy and gas exchanges between vegetation and atmosphere. In the last decades, LAI values have widely been estimated from passive remotely sensed data. Common approaches are based on semi-empirical/statistic techniques or on radiative transfer model inversion. Although the scientific community has been providing several LAI retrieval methods, the estimated results are often affected by noise and measurement uncertainties. The sequential data assimilation theory provides a theoretical framework to combine an imperfect model with incomplete observation data. In this document a data fusion Kalman filter algorithm is proposed in order to estimate the time evolution of LAI by combining MODIS LAI data and PROBA-V surface reflectance data. The reflectance data were linked to LAI by using the Reduced Simple Ratio index. The main working hypotheses were lacking input data necessary for climatic models and canopy reflectance models.
Gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist protocols for pituitary desensitization in in vitro fertilization and gamete intrafallopian transfer cycles.

BACKGROUND Gonadotropin releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) are used in assisted reproduction cycles to reversibly block pituitary function and prevent a luteinizing hormone surge. In the short and ultrashort protocols of GnRHa administration, injection of gonadotropins is commenced a few days after the start of GnRHa. In the long protocols (with GnRHa started either in the midluteal phase or in the early follicular phase) gonadotropin administration is delayed until pituitary desensitization has been achieved, usually 2-3 weeks. OBJECTIVES To conduct a systematic overview of available data comparing short or ultrashort and long GnRHa protocols for pituitary desensitization in in vitro fertilization (IVF) and gamete intra-fallopian transfer (GIFT) treatment cycles. SEARCH STRATEGY Search strategies included on-line searching of the MEDLINE and EMBASE data bases and the Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group's Specialised Register from 1982 to 1998, and hand searching of bibliographies of relevant publications and reviews, and abstracts of scientific meetings. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized trials of short or ultrashort versus long (follicular or luteal phase start) GnRHa protocols in IVF or GIFT treatment cycles. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data were extracted into 2 x 2 tables. For the primary outcome, clinical pregnancy per cycle started, the overall common odds ratio (OR) and the risk difference with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated after verifying the presence of homogeneity of treatment effect across all trials. The following subgroup comparisons were performed: ultrashort versus long protocols, short versus long protocols and, within each of these comparisons, subgroups of studies which used the long protocol with follicular phase start or the long protocol with luteal phase start. Secondary outcomes considered were clinical pregnancy per oocyte retrieval and per embryo transfer, spontaneous abortion, ongoing/delivered pregnancy per cycle started, number of ampoules of gonadotropin used, number of oocytes retrieved, and fertilization rate. MAIN RESULTS Twenty-six trials met the inclusion criteria. The common OR for clinical pregnancy per cycle started was 1.32 (95% CI, 1.10 - 1.57) in favour of the long GnRHa protocol. The studies were subgrouped, depending on whether, in the long protocol, the GnRHa was commenced in the follicular phase (8 trials) or luteal phase (16 trials). The respective ORs were 1.54 (95% CI, 1.11 - 2. 13) and 1.21 (95% CI, 0.98 - 1.51). After excluding the four trials using the ultrashort protocol, the OR for long versus short protocols (22 trials) was 1.27 (95% CI, 1.04 - 1.56). A comparison of long versus ultrashort protocols (4 trials) produced an OR of 1. 47 (95% CI, 1.02 - 2.12). REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS On the basis of clinical pregnancy rate per cycle started, this meta-analysis demonstrates the superiority of the long protocol over the short and ultrashort protocols for GnRHa use in IVF and GIFT cycles.
Otolaryngology Research and Reviews

Mucous membrane pemphigoid is a relatively rare disorder involving mucosal lesions. Here, we report two cases of mucous membrane pemphigoid. This report is the first to discuss narrow band imaging of the mucosal features of mucous membrane pemphigoid. The two patients presented with sore throat and multiple stomatitis. Optic fiberscopy revealed mucosal lesions on the gingiva, palate, epiglottis, and arytenoid. The appearance showed both erosion and erosion with a white coating. Narrow band imaging clearly showed a white area at the site of the sub epithelial blisters and a mixed blue and brownish area at the site of the erosive area in which the mucosa was exfoliated without blistering. Narrow band imaging was therefore also useful for detecting blister lesions in mucous membrane pemphigoid because lesions were more clearly visible. Pharyngolaryngeal examination using optic fiberscopy should be performed in all mucous membrane pemphigoid patients.
"Going It Alone": Following the Male Cohort of Survivors of Sex Trafficking of the Chai Dai Butterfly Longitudinal Research Project

Over the past ten years, the Butterfly Longitudinal Research Project has followed 128 survivors of trafficking through their experiences in aftercare, reintegration, and beyond to better understand the recovery and reintegration of trafficking survivors within a Cambodian context. This paper focuses on the 19 males who were available to interview. Despite the project’s wealth of data and analysis, there are notable gaps regarding the male cohort. In response, this paper examines this cohort holistically, considering their statements and broader narratives, merging them with previous collective observations of the Butterfly Project. Throughout this paper, data indicates a pattern of violence among the male cohort. The paper finds high rates of both physical and emotional peer-to-peer violence during the male cohort’s time in residential care, as well as emotional violence from families following their community reintegration. Difficulties in work and school, frequent migration and housing instability are also prevalent. During aftercare, peer-to-peer violence is cited, with a majority describing a lack of trusting relationships. As respondents are reintegrated back into their communities, the majority report struggles with poverty and emotional violence from parents/carers. There is evidence of more positive peer relationships, fewer feelings of shame, and more trusting relationships. However, the majority still struggles with poverty, pressure to support their families, and poor emotional health. While peers are the primary source of violence experienced during aftercare, parents are most generally the source during the Reintegration and Life Beyond phases. Respondents describe deteriorating relationships with families/carers, increasing responsibility to be more independent, and continuing struggles to maintain their studies or employment.
Virtual Teams: A New Opportunity to Develop a Business

Virtual teams give many advantages to organizations, including increased knowledge sharing and improve organizational performance. Virtual teams have altered the expectations and boundaries of knowledge worker’s interactions and make a new opportunity to develop the business. In this paper, we present summary results of an online survey. The online questionnaire was emailed by using a simple random sampling method to 356 Malaysian manufacturing small and medium –sized Enterprises (SMEs). The findings of this study show that SMEs in Malaysia are gaining to use virtual teams, and it can be concluded that virtual teams provide a new platform for developing the business in SMEs. Based on the study, we suggest avenues for future research that are important to advancing our understanding of virtual team effects on business growth.
33 Tips to Maximize Articles’ Citation Frequency

Abstract: The number of citations contributes to over 30% in the university rankings. Therefore, most of the scientists are looking for an effective method to increase their citation record. On the other hand, increase research visibility in the academic world in order to receive comments and citations from fellow researchers across the globe, is essential. Publishing a high quality paper in scientific journals is only the mid point towards receiving citation in the future. The balance of the journey is completed by disseminating the publications by using the proper “Research Tools”. This presentation provides 33 different tips for increasing the citation frequencies. The number of citations contributes to over 30% in the university rankings. Therefore, most of the scientists are looking for an effective method to increase their citation record. On the other hand, increase research visibility in the academic world in order to receive comments and citations from fellow researchers across the globe, is essential. Publishing a high quality paper in scientific journals is only the mid point towards receiving citation in the future. The balance of the journey is completed by disseminating the publications by using the proper “Research Tools”. This presentation provides 33 different tips for increasing the citation frequencies.
A EXPRESSION ALTERS THE ACTIN-MYOSIN CYTOSKELETON AND MIGRATION OF HeLa CELLS THROUGH RHO GTPase SIGNALING

We ectopically expressed the transcription factor Pitx2a, one of the Pitx2 isoforms, in HeLa cells using a tetracycline-inducible expression system and examined whether Pitx2a was capable of modulating Rho GTPase signaling and altering the cell's cytoskeleton. Ectopic expression of Pitx2a induced actin-myosin reorganization, leading to increased cell spreading, suppression of cell migration and the strengthening of cell-cell adhesion, marked by the accumulation and localization of ß-catenin and N-cadherin to the sites of cell-cell contacts. Moreover, Pitx2a expression resulted in activation of the Rho GTPases, Rac1 and RhoA, and the dominant negative Rac1 mutant N17Rac1 inhibited cell spreading and disrupted localization of â-catenin to the sites of cell-cell contacts. Both reorganization of actin-myosin and cell spreading require PI 3-kinase activity, which is also necessary for activation of the Rho GTPase proteins. Pitx2a induced the expression of Trio, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rac1 and RhoA, which preceded cell spreading and the expression of Trio protein was downregulated after the changes in cell spreading and cell morphology were initiated. In addition, Pitx2a also induces cell cycle arrest at G0/G1, most likely due to the accumulation of the tumor suppressor proteins p53 and p21. Our data indicate that the transcriptional activities initiated in the nucleus by Pitx2a result in profound changes in HeLa cell morphology, migration and proliferation.
Nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate-mediated calcium signalling in effector T cells regulates autoimmunity of the central nervous system

Nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate represents a newly identified second messenger in T cells involved in antigen receptor-mediated calcium signalling. Its function in vivo is, however, unknown due to the lack of biocompatible inhibitors. Using a recently developed inhibitor, we explored the role of nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate in autoreactive effector T cells during experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, the animal model for multiple sclerosis. We provide in vitro and in vivo evidence that calcium signalling controlled by nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate is relevant for the pathogenic potential of autoimmune effector T cells. Live two photon imaging and molecular analyses revealed that nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate signalling regulates T cell motility and re-activation upon arrival in the nervous tissues. Treatment with the nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate inhibitor significantly reduced both the number of stable arrests of effector T cells and their invasive capacity. The levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines interferon-gamma and interleukin-17 were strongly diminished. Consecutively, the clinical symptoms of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis were ameliorated. In vitro, antigen-triggered T cell proliferation and cytokine production were evenly suppressed. These inhibitory effects were reversible: after wash-out of the nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate antagonist, the effector T cells fully regained their functions. The nicotinic acid derivative BZ194 induced this transient state of non-responsiveness specifically in post-activated effector T cells. Naïve and long-lived memory T cells, which express lower levels of the putative nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate receptor, type 1 ryanodine receptor, were not targeted. T cell priming and recall responses in vivo were not reduced. These data indicate that the nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate/calcium signalling pathway is essential for the recruitment and the activation of autoaggressive effector T cells within their target organ. Interference with this signalling pathway suppresses the formation of autoimmune inflammatory lesions and thus might qualify as a novel strategy for the treatment of T cell mediated autoimmune diseases.
Air Abrasion: Interdisciplinary Modern Technologies— Approach to Minimally Invasive Treatment of Dental Caries

Dental air abrasion is a minimally invasive, ultraconservative method, with indication of choice for incipient fissural caries, which still count for 90% of newly appeared caries and raise diagnosing problems of the lesional stage. In this context, the aim of the paper was to use and assess dental air abrasion as an alternative technique for the preparation of dental structures, both on extracted teeth and on patients. Bio-Art microblaster was used on 14 extracted teeth and 6 patients for the removal of fissural caries in molars and pre‐ molars. After being acquainted with the technique and according to the specific protocol of use, minimally invasive preparations were made, followed by their restoration with adhesive materials. The advantages of the method, also specified by similar surveys, were: absence of pain, vibration, noise, pressure, and heat that are generated by conven‐ tional methods (burs), leading to high acceptance by patients.
Recent Innovation in Pretreatment for Skin Grafts Using Regenerative Medicine in the East

Chronic ulcers remain a significant health care concern today, especially in the elderly and immobile population. Pedicled or free flap transfers are usually applied to deep wounds in which bone and/or tendon are exposed. Despite improvements in reconstructive surgery techniques, operative invasion and complications, including flap necrosis and infection, are serious problems in patients whose general condition is unfavorable. For these patients, skin graft provides less invasive coverage of wounds as compared to the flap procedures. However, skin graft cannot survive on deep and poorly vascularized defects. Conversion of such defects to applicable beds to simple skin graft requires technologies to induce highquality granulation tissue on compromised wounds. Stimulating the repair process after surgical debridement may achieve granulation tissue formation and shorten the period for skin grafts. For this purpose, regenerative medicine has attracted our attention. The characteristics of the methodology include the use of the three main tools of regenerative medicine; biomaterials, cytokines, and cells. This section introduces the technologies of regenerative medicine for wound bed preparation with particular focus on their progress in Asia. All the patients illustrated in this chapter consented to the treatment. Clinical trials were approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of Saitama Medical University.
The Neogene de-greening of Central Asia

There remains substantial debate concerning the relative roles of tectonics and global climate in driving the evolution of climate in Central Asia. Today, interior Asia—including the Taklamakan, Gobi, and Ordos Deserts—is exceptionally arid and is surrounded by distinct rainfall boundaries, such as those generated by the Asian monsoon systems to the east and south and those generated by high topography to the north and west. Determining how and why these boundaries have varied over the Neogene is hindered by the lack of a single proxy that can be broadly applied through space and time. We construct isoscapes of pedogenic carbonate δ 13 C (δ 13 C c ) over the Neogene in Asia by combining a compilation of 2236 published measurements with new data from three localities in northern Central Asia. Pedogenic carbonate δ 13 C records local aridity—excepting localities impacted by C 4 grasslands and during large changes in atmospheric p CO 2 —through variations in soil respiration, depth of carbonate formation, and the effect of water stress on plant δ 13 C. Together, these effects reflect changes in both primary productivity and mean annual precipitation. Throughout the Neogene, we find consistent and exceptionally high δ 13 C c in interior Asia with a ring of lower δ 13 C c that demarcates higher precipitation. This persistent ring of lower δ 13 C c corresponds in the south and east with the influence of the Asian monsoon systems; in the west and north, it reflects both orographic rainfall due to uplift of the Tian Shan and to moisture delivery by the mid-latitude westerlies. Finally, δ 13 C c and, hence, aridity increases regionally in the latest Neogene, reflecting the effects of Northern Hemisphere glaciation and cooling. This widespread “de-greening” would have increased regional albedo and modified basin-scale water balances, resulting in greater dust fluxes due to reduced vegetative cover and precipitation.
Insights into landforms and soils for explaining plague hosts-vectors interaction in Western Usambara Mountains, Tanzania

A study was carried out in Western Usambara Mountains, Tanzania, to investigate small mammals and flea abundances, diversity and spatial distribution in relation to soils and landforms. A digital elevation model (DEM) analysis was carried out coupled with field surveys to examine in detail landform characteristics. Soil was studied on randomly selected landforms, the sites at which small mammals were trapped. Results showed that Shannon Diversity Index increased with values of 1.58, 1.62 and 1.69 for Plain, Escarpment and Plateau respectively. Small mammal species richness also increased with elevation. Flea abundance followed small mammal trends. The observed trend is attributed to a combination of factors such as elevation, landform heterogeneity, slope gradient, shape, forms and slope aspect which have been observed determine habitats’ characteristics. A landform/soil model shows that available phosphorus (p<0.001), aspect (p<0.01) and elevation (p<0.01) are statistically significant predictors explaining richness and abundance of small mammals. Fleas’ abundance and spatial distribution were influenced by hill-shade (p<0.001), available phosphorus (p<0.01), and base saturation (p<0.01). This study shows that landform and soils influence small mammals and fleas abundances and their spatial distribution along the landscape. This improves our understanding of relationships between landforms, soils and abundance of small
Identification and Comparative Analysis of Selected Elements of Tourism Potential from a Regional Perspective

: Purpose: The aim of this article is to identify the elements of tourism potential, particularly in the regional dimension, and to compare two spatial units in Poland through the prism of accommodation development. A hypothesis was formulated that accommodation is an important element of tourism potential in a region, and that its quantitative, qualitative and spatial development is an important factor in increasing tourism attractiveness. Adequately to the aim and the hypothesis, the following research questions were formulated: what elements does the tourism potential of the region consist of, and is tourism development an important component of this potential? The main aspect of the article is the identification and analysis of indicators for evaluating accommodation development in a regional perspective. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research approach used in the theoretical part of the article is based on the method of critical analysis of the literature. The considerations in the empirical part have a positive dimension, i.e. a descriptive and explanatory one (in the field of tourist development as an element of the tourist potential of selected regions in the northern Poland). Moreover, in the study of the accommodation development of selected spatial units, the analysis method was used, and in the process of formulating conclusions – the synthesis method. Findings: The theoretical and empirical research, thanks to the approach used, made it possible to identify one of the key elements of regional tourism potential, i.e. tourism development. The research was narrowed down to accommodation facilities as the basic component of this development. Practical Implications: Analysis of the status and use of accommodation in selected regions of northern Poland has shown that tourism is one of the pillars of the economy in this area. This is determined by the presence of attractive assets, transport accessibility and tourism development. The observed increase in tourist traffic and intensity of use of accommodation facilities indicates the recovery of tourism after the COVID-19 pandemic. The implications of this phenomenon should be taken into account at the microeconomic level (in development
FREQUENCY DOMAIN HELICOPTER ELECTROMAGNETICS - REDUCING THE COSTS OF ACQUISITION FOR SALINITY AND GROUNDWATER MAPPING

This study uses FDHEM data collected from the Riverland South Australian Salinity Mapping and Management Projects, using the RESOLVE system. The Riverland survey was collected along the southern floodplains near Loxton, South Australia, an area of largest salt export along the Murray River. The objective of the Riverland survey was to map the depth, thickness and conductivity of two layers, the Blanchetown Clay and the saline groundwater. Definition of useful targets for the AEM survey, rather than a simplistic salinity mapping approach, was undertaken to provide the level of detail and understanding required. Survey design based on knowledge of the hydrogeological framework and pre-survey down-hole induction conductivity logging enabled forward modelling of the likely EM response of the target given a particular airborne EM system and survey parameters. Further to this, use of a priori knowledge of the local geomorphic and geological landscapes, density of boreholes and other geophysical information was investigated in the context of survey planning of line and tie line density. Initial line spacings were derived from a model describing the smallest target of interest in the survey, 150 metre diameter holes in the Blanchetown Clays, so that at least two lines would intersect the smallest target.