Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Intra-articular Hypertonic Dextrose Prolotherapy on Pain, Quality of Life, and Functional Outcomes Scores in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

Introduction Knee osteoarthritis is a common chronic condition leading to pain and debility. Prolotherapy is a safe and cost-effective treatment option. Our team conducted a case series to examine the effect of prolotherapy on functional measures and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Methods Our case series included 15 total patients consisting of male and female patients aged 50-85 years old with a prior diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis and moderate pain. The patients completed baseline Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) and EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ5D) surveys and received an ultrasound-guided intra-articular prolotherapy injection. The patients were then followed up by Telehealth at one-, two-, and three-month post-procedure. Results Data points for 15 patients were recorded over the duration of the three months. Results revealed significantly improved functional scores from the baseline period (M = 0.60) to the one-month (M = 0.43), two-month (M = 0.48), and three-month (M = 0.46), observed power = 0.99. Participants reported significantly lower pain scores between the baseline period (M = 0.60) compared to the one-month (M = 0.34), two-month (M = 0.35) and three-month (M = 0.39) periods. There was no statistical significance across time in participants’ EQ5D scores. The repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed no statistically significant differences in participants scores between the baseline (M = 64.4), one-month (M = 68.93), two-month (M = 68.47), or three-month (M = 68.33), observed power = 0.31. There were no statistically significant differences in participants WOMAC stiffness scores between the baseline (M = 0.67), one-month (M = 0.46), two-month (M = 0.57), or three-month (M = 0.56) periods, observed power = 0.73. The results revealed no significant change in participants’ EQ5D and WOMAC stiffness scores. The results support a statistically significant improvement in patients’ self-reported functioning and pain scores between the baseline and one-month, two-month, and three-month periods. Discussion The significant improvement in function occurred between the baseline and one-month time periods and the pain reduction was sustained throughout the two-month and three-month periods. Our study supports prolotherapy as an effective treatment option to improve pain and function in knee osteoarthritis. The study could be repeated with a large sample size to further investigate the effects of prolotherapy on quality-of-life measures.
Two new species of Parahesione (Annelida: Hesionidae) associated with ghost shrimps (Crustacea: Decapoda) and their phylogenetic relationships

Two new species of Hesionidae, Parahesione pulvinata sp. nov. and Parahesione apiculata sp. nov. are described based on materials collected at tidal flats in Okinawa (Japan) from burrows of the ghost shrimps Neocallichirus jousseaumei and Glypturus armatus. The two new species are characterized by having eight enlarged cirri, dorsal cirrophores with dorsal foliose lobe and biramous parapodia, and by lacking median antenna. Parahesione apiculata sp. nov. has digitate lobes on the posterior margin of the dorsal foliose lobe (absent in P. pulvinata sp. nov.). The two new species were never found outside the ghost shrimp burrows, suggesting they are obligate symbionts. Phylogenetic analyses based on four concatenated genes suggest that the symbiotic lifestyle has evolved several times in Hesionidae.
Matrix Metalloproteinase 9/microRNA-145 Ratio: Bridging Genomic and Immunological Variabilities in Thyroid Cancer

Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) and microRNA-145 (miR-145) have emerged as essential biomarkers in thyroid cancer progression and metastasis. However, their combined evaluation and clinical utility as a unified prognostic marker across diverse thyroid cancer subgroups remain unexplored. We investigated the diagnostic and prognostic value of the MMP9/miR-145 ratio in thyroid cancer, hypothesizing it may overcome inter-patient heterogeneity and serve as a versatile biomarker regardless of genetic mutations or autoimmune status. MMP9 and miR-145 expressions were analyzed in 175 paired papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and normal tissues. Plasma levels were assessed perioperatively and longitudinally over 12–18 months in 86 matched PTC patients. The associations with clinicopathological parameters and patient outcomes were evaluated. MMP9 was upregulated, and miR-145 downregulated in cancer tissues, with a median MMP9/miR-145 ratio 17.6-fold higher versus controls. The tissue ratio accurately diagnosed thyroid malignancy regardless of BRAF mutation or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis status, overcoming genetic and autoimmune heterogeneity. A high preoperative circulating ratio predicted aggressive disease features, including lymph node metastasis, extrathyroidal extension, progression/relapse, and recurrence. Although the preoperative plasma ratio was elevated in patients with unfavorable outcomes, it had limited utility for post-surgical monitoring. In conclusion, the MMP9/miR-145 ratio is a promising biomarker in PTC that bridges genetic and immunological variabilities, enhancing preoperative diagnosis and prognostication across diverse patient subgroups. It accurately stratifies heterogenous cases by aggressiveness. The longitudinal trends indicate decreasing applicability for post-thyroidectomy surveillance. Further large-scale validation and protocol standardization can facilitate clinical translation of the MMP9/miR-145 ratio to guide personalized thyroid cancer management.
The Implementation of Islamic Trade Financing Product by Islamic Banking Institutions towards Muslim Halal Entrepreneurs (MHE) in Malaysia

This paper is prepared to observe the implementation of Islamic trade financing products for Muslim Halal entrepreneurs (MHEs) who have obtained trade financing from Islamic banking institutions in Malaysia. Islamic banking institutions play an important role in developing Muslim Halal businesses and entrepreneurship and Halal entrepreneur economies. This study used qualitative research and in-depth views based on objectives. Interviews were conducted on respondents from bank officers of Islamic banking institutions and analysed the themes as identified by the researchers. The findings of this study show that Islamic banking institutions have successfully their extensive role in helping MHEs in Malaysia. There are two characteristics of roles of Islamic banking institutions in helping MHEs such as the monitoring system and training assistance for MHEs. It also suggested that MHEs need to master the culture of high-quality entrepreneurs such as efficient, systematic, and competitive financial management skills. Finally, both parties; Islamic banking institutions and Muslim entrepreneurs must fulfil their responsibilities accordingly.
Molecular Linkage between Immune System Disorders and Atherosclerosis

A strong relationship exists between immune dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. Immune dysregulation can promote the development of cardiovascular diseases as well as exacerbate their course. The disorders may occur due to the presence of primary immune defects (currently known as inborn errors of immunity) and the more common secondary immune deficiencies. Secondary immune deficiencies can be caused by certain chronic conditions (such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, obesity, autoimmune diseases, or cancer), nutritional deficiencies (including both lack of nutrients and bioactive non-nutrient compounds), and medical treatments and addictive substances. This article unravels the molecular linkage between the aforementioned immune system disorders and atherosclerosis.
Monitoring, fate and transport, and risk assessment of organic pollutants in the environment: CREST publications during 2019–2023

Abstract Organic pollutants are potential hazards for human health and are pivotal contributors to ecological imbalances. The spectrum of chemicals in research on organic pollutants has continually evolved, which is influenced by industrial advancements, scientific breakthroughs, and regulatory frameworks. A comprehensive analysis of 30 review articles on organic pollutants published during 2019-2023 in Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology (CREST) provides good perspectives on the trajectory of organic pollutants in the environment. This synthesis delineates the recent advancements in two domains: (1) innovative monitoring technologies (sensor, extraction method, bio-indicator, and radioactive tracer); and (2) fate and transport, and risk assessment of organic pollutants. However, research on organic pollutants needs better monitoring techniques, matrix-related transformation methodologies, and realistic risk assessment tools. The development of novel strategies to monitor and manage organic pollutants, coupled with evaluations of ecosystem impacts under field conditions, is paramount. Graphic abstract
Detection and Severity Identification of Neonatal Seizure Using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks from Multichannel EEG Signal

Introduction One of the most frequent neurological conditions in newborns is neonatal seizures, which may indicate severe neurological dysfunction. These seizures may have very subtle or very modest clinical indications because patterns like oscillatory (spike) trains begin with relatively low amplitude and gradually increase over time. This becomes very challenging and erroneous if clinical observation is the primary basis for identifying newborn seizures. In this study, a diagnosis system using deep convolutional neural networks is proposed to determine and classify the severity level of neonatal seizures using multichannel neonatal EEG data. Methods Datasets from publicly accessible online sources were used to compile clinical multichannel EEG datasets. Various preprocessing steps were taken, including the conversion of 2D time series data to equivalent waveform pictures. The proposed models have undergone training, and evaluations of their performance were conducted. Results The proposed CNN was used to perform binary classification with an accuracy of 92.6%, F1-score of 92.7%, specificity of 92.8%, and precision of 92.6%. To detect newborn seizures, this model is utilized. Using the proposed CNN model, multiclassification was performed with accuracy rates of 88.6%, specificity rates of 92.18%, F1-score rates of 85.61%, and precision rates of 88.9%. The results demonstrated that the suggested strategy can assist medical professionals in making accurate diagnoses close to healthcare institutions. Conclusion The developed system was capable of detecting neonatal seizures and has the potential to be used as a decision-making tool in resource-limited areas with a scarcity of expert neurologists.
A Machine Learning Approach for Emotion Classification in Bengali Speech

— In this research work, we have presented a machine learning strategy for Bengali speech emotion categorization with a focus on Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCC) as features. The commonly utilized method of MFCC in speech processing has proved effective in obtaining crucial phoneme-specific data. This paper analyzes the efficacy of four machine learning algorithms: Random Forest, XGBoost, CatBoost, and Gradient Boosting, and tackles the paucity of research on emotion categorization in non-English languages, particularly Bengali. With CatBoost obtaining the greatest accuracy of 82.85%, Gradient Boosting coming in second with 81.19%, XGBoost coming in third with 80.03%, and Random Forest coming in fourth with 80.01%, experimental evaluation shows encouraging outcomes. MFCC features improve classification precision and offer insightful information on the distinctive qualities of emotions expressed in Bengali speech. By demonstrating how well MFCC characteristics can identify emotions in Bengali speech, this study advances the field of emotion classification. Future research can investigate more sophisticated feature extraction methods, look into how temporal dynamics are incorporated into emotion classification models, and investigate practical uses for emotion detection systems in Bengali speech. This study advances our knowledge of emotion classification and paves the way for more effective emotion identification systems in Bengali speech by utilizing MFCC and machine learning techniques. Our work addresses the need for thorough and efficient techniques to recognize and classify emotions in speech signals in the context of emotion categorization. Understanding emotions is essential for many applications, as they are a basic component of human communication. By investigating cutting-edge strategies that show promise for enhancing the precision and effectiveness of emotion recognition, this study advances the field of emotion classification.
Recuperações de Sterna hirundo (Linnaeus, 1758) na Bahia, Brasil, entre 1995 e 2004

Recoveries of Sterna hirundo (Linnaeus, 1758) in Bahia, Brazil, between 1995 and 2004. The recapture in Bahia of 829 Common Terns Sterna hirundo banded with non Brazilian bands revealed that most birds came from the North and Central America. Most terns from Europe migrating to South America came from Portugal (Azores) and Spain. Besides the birds banded in North America and Europe, we also recorded bands of birds coming from Argentina (7) and Southern Brazil. The identification of the migration route of the Common Tern from Europe, in particular from Portugal (Azores) and Spain, have contributed to improve the understanding of the migration route of the species from breeding to wintering grounds. Bahia stands out as an important site for the recapture/recovery of Commom Terns from North America and Europe, as well as a significant stopover site for the species with flock estimated in 10,000 birds in Mangue Seco and Cacha Prego. Our data shows Bahia as the Brazilian state with the largest number of banded Commom Terns. Bird banding activities, radio-tracking, studies on behavior and food habits, as well as regular educa- tional campaigns are significantly contributing to the conservation of Common Tern wintering grounds in the Bahia coast.
Performance Enhancement of Codebook-Based Beamforming Using Least Squares Approach

A codebook-based approach for channel estimation and beamforming affords the advantage of low complexity; however, it suffers from limited resolution of estimated directional angles of a channel owing to its finite size. To resolve this problem in codebook-based systems, this letter proposes a novel approach that employs the least squares (LS) method to estimate a directional angle from the measured beam gains of a few codewords, enhancing channel estimation performance. A nonlinear LS problem is formulated and solved using a grid search method. The impacts of grid resolution and number of codewords used on the LS estimation performance are investigated. Computer simulations demonstrate that the proposed scheme outperforms conventional schemes in terms of channel estimation errors and achieved beam gains. Furthermore, the proposed scheme requires a training overload of fewer or an equal number of codewords to measure beam gains to estimate a directional angle, compared with conventional schemes that seek to address the same problem of limited resolution in channel estimation.
Sensitivity of vegetation phenology detection to the temporal resolution of satellite data

Vegetation phenology derived from satellite data has increasingly received attention for applications in environmental monitoring and modelling. The accuracy of phenological estimates, however, is unknown at the regional and global level because field validation data are insufficient. To assess the accuracy of satellite‐derived phenology, this study investigates the sensitivity of phenology detection to both the temporal resolution of sampling and the number of consecutive missing values (usually representing cloud cover) in the time series of satellite data. To do this, time series of daily vegetation index data for various ecosystems are modelled and simulated using data from Moderate‐Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data. The annual temporal data are then fitted using piecewise logistic functions, which are employed to calculate curvature change rate for detecting phenological transition dates. The results show that vegetation phenology can be estimated with a high precision from time series with temporal resolutions of 6–16 days even if daily data contains some uncertainties. If the temporal resolution is no coarser than 16 days for time series sampled using an average composite, the absolute errors are less than 3 days. On the other hand, the phase shift of temporal sampling is shown to have limited impacts on phenology detection. However, the accuracy of phenology detection may be reduced greatly if missing values in the time series of 16‐day MODIS data occur around the onsets of phenological transition dates. Even so, the probability that the absolute error in phenological estimates is greater than 5 days is less than 4% when only one period is missing in the time series of 16‐day data during vegetation growing seasons; this probability increases to 20% if there are two consecutive missing values.
Subduction-induced break-up and drifting of continental plates

Since the early theory of Wegener, the break-up and drift of continents have been controversial and hotly debated topics. To assist the interpretation of the break-up and drift mechanisms and its relation with mantle circulation patterns, we carried out a 2-D numerical study that will provide insight into the dynamics of these processes. Different regimes of upper plate deformation are studied as consequence of stress coupling with mantle convection patterns. The most important results indicate that three different styles of subduction can be defined by increasing the viscosity contrast between upper and lower mantle: penetrating slab, slab avalanche and stagnant slab. Subduction of the oceanic plate induces mantle flow that, in turn, exerts basal tractions on the upper plate. These acting mantle drag forces (FMD) can be subdivided in two types: (1) active mantle drag occurring when the flow drives plate motion (FAD), and (2) passive mantle drag (FPD), when the asthenosphere resists plate motion. The active traction generated by the subduction-induced convective cell is counterbalanced by passive mantle viscous drag away from it and therefore tension is generated within the continental plate. The shear stress profiles indicate that break-up conditions are met where the gradient of the basal shear stress is maximized. However the break-up location varies largely depending on the convection style primarily controlled by slab stagnation on the transition zone or by slab penetration into the lower mantle. Our study, compared with real subduction settings, suggests that: (1) The stagnating slab models with break-up at about 250-350 km from the trench and drifting of small continental portions can be compared with the evolution of the Japan Arc and the opening of the Western Mediterranean, where stagnant slabs and microcontinents migrated following the retreat of the Pacific and Ionian slab, respectively. (2) The penetrating slab model with break-up at about 2800-3500 km from the trench and drifting of large continental plates could explain the opening of the Atlantic Ocean and westward drifting of the South and North American Plates following the retreat of the ⇠15000 km wide Farallon Plate. Good correspondences between our models and these convergent margins provide an alternative interpretation for their evolution and, more in general, for the break-up and drifting mechanisms of continents.
Optimal base temperature for computing growing degree-day sums to predict forage quality of mountain permanent meadow in South Tyrol.

Knowledge of the appropriate base temperature (Tb) is needed for the analysis of meteorological effects on plant phenology using growing degree-days. However, several values of Tb have been used for mountain grassland. The main purpose of this research was to identify the optimal Tb for predicting changes in crude protein, acid detergent fibre and net energy for lactation of forage grown in mountain permanent meadows in South Tyrol (Italy). Forage samples were sequentially harvested weekly for a period of seven weeks starting from the pasture stage (15 cm growing height) at 202 environments (sites × years). To estimate the most appropriate Tb, growing degree day sum (GDDsum) were computed in the time interval between one week before pasture stage and the harvest time using a range of Tb between 0 °C and 5 °C at a 0.5 °C interval and using both observed temperatures from reference weather stations and interpolated temperature. Optimal Tb were estimated on the basis of the R2 values of the regression equations of the different quality parameters on GDDsum and can be set at 0, 1.5 and 4.5 °C for the prediction of CP, NEL and ADF respectively. R2 values exhibited in general little variation within the investigated range.
Managing conflicts within a team: conflict resolution strategies and effective cooperation

Managing conflicts and developing their resolution strategies are among the leading topics in modern management. The studies aimed at improving and understanding the connection between management styles and conflicts, strategies for coordinating cooperation, and increasing team productivity are becoming relevant. This research aims to determine the effectiveness of training professionals in conflict management and resolution strategies within a team, enhancing productivity through cooperation and project effectiveness. Also, the authors present a study of how team effectiveness depends on the ability to manage conflict by mediating the level of team coordination. The study employs various methods. The experiment method is the main one in this paper. The study results were evaluated using a survey and observation conducted by stages. The research hypothesis asserts that studying conflict resolution principles and employing various conflict avoidance strategies are positive components of contemporary management practices. The research results indicate that conducting a conflict management training course based on cooperation positively impacts project team productivity and managerial preparedness. There are prospects for continuing experimental research on considering and analyzing conflict management styles as they develop and determine the connection between team performance and conflict management skills.
The Impact of Demographic and Occupational Factors on the Attitudes of Special Education Teachers towards Parental Involvement in the Educational Process in Greece

: Teacher attitudes towards parents can affect their relationships with the child and the family and influence the extent to which parents feel motivated to be involved in their child’s education. The objective of this study was to examine the perceptions of 600 special education teachers in Greece about their attitudes toward parental involvement in the educational process, and whether demographic and occupational characteristics differentiate these attitudes. Using the Parent-Caregiver Relationship Scale: Caregiver Form (PCRS), teachers reported positive perceptions about, as well as a high degree of, parental involvement in the education of their students. Additionally, teacher characteristics like gender, age, academic training, teaching experience, and collaboration with other teachers, significantly differentiated those attitudes, in the total scale as well as specifically concerning trust/confidence, collaboration, and affiliation. Therefore, teachers were positively inclined towards the involvement of parents in the educational process and their personal characteristics helped to shape those attitudes.