Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
SA-β-Gal in Kidney Tubules as a Predictor of Renal Outcome in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Cellular senescence has emerged as an important driver of aging and age-related disease in the kidney. The activity of β-galactosidase at pH 6 (SA-β-Gal) is a classic maker of senescence in cellular biology; however, the predictive role of kidney tissue SA-β-Gal on eGFR loss in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is still not understood. We retrospectively studied the expression of SA-β-Gal in kidney biopsies obtained in a cohort [n = 22] of incident patients who were followed up for 3 years as standard of care. SA-β-Gal staining was approximately fourfold higher in the tubular compartment of patients with CKD vs. controls [26.0 ± 9 vs. 7.4 ± 6% positive tubuli in patients vs. controls; p < 0.025]. Tubular expressions of SA-β-Gal, but not proteinuria, at the time of biopsy correlated with eGFR loss at the follow up; moreover, SA-β-Gal expression in more than 30% of kidney tubules was associated with fast progressive kidney disease. In conclusion, our study shows that SA-β-Gal is upregulated in the kidney tubular compartment of adult patients affected by CKD and suggests that tubular SA-β-Gal is associated with accelerated loss of renal function.
Trust Environment for Cyber-Physical Systems: The DYNAMO Approach

This paper explores the evolving landscape of cybersecurity within cyber-physical systems, emphasizing the critical need for resilience and trust-building mechanisms. Grounded in the foundational perspectives of Cybersecurity Science, the study addresses the challenges posed by the complex interdependencies among physical, information, cognitive, and social domains. It introduces the DYNAMO platform, a novel approach that integrates Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) with Business Continuity Management (BCM) to enhance situational awareness and recovery planning. The platform's comprehensive methodology spans existing tool incorporation, detailed assessments, identification of gaps, simulations, and knowledge generation. Furthermore, the paper delves into the intricacies of cybersecurity information sharing, advocating for a unified approach to combat hybrid threats. The establishment of a common operational picture and shared situational awareness emerges as pivotal, underlining the indispensable role of technology, social trust, and resilience in securing critical information-sharing mechanisms in cyber-physical systems.
Translation and validation of the Polish language version of the Teenagers Quality of Life questionnaire (T-QoL)

Introduction Skin diseases affect patients at any age, but as each period in life is different, tools used to assess quality of life impairment should be adjusted according to the particular age group. Adolescence is a unique time, when young individuals go through many changes, making them especially vulnerable to stress. Aim Translation and validation of a Polish language version of the Teenagers Quality of Life questionnaire (T-QoL) questionnaire. Material and methods T-QoL was translated following international guidelines. A group of 34 dermatological patients, aged 12–19 years old, with various skin diseases were given the T-QoL as well as the CDLQI or DLQI to complete. They were also asked to complete the T-QoL questionnaire for the second time after 3–5 days. Statistical analysis of the results was performed. Results The Polish version of T-QoL is internally consistent (Cronbach α 0.893 for the whole questionnaire). Moreover, it presents very good convergent validity (ICC = 0.864). No statistically significant differences between each question were noticed between the first and second time of completing the form. T-QoL scores correlated significantly with DLQI (p = 0.008, r = 0.636) and CDLQI (p < 0.001, r = 0.777) scores. Conclusions The Polish version of the T-QoL questionnaire is a reliable instrument with adequate convergent validity, consistency and reproducibility. It can be successfully used to measure quality of life impairment among teenagers.
The effects of neighborhood socioeconomic status on ADL/IADL among Chinese older adults-neighborhood environments as mediators

Background There have been few consistencies in the effects and pathways of neighborhood socioeconomic status (SES) on functional limitations. This study aimed to investigate whether neighborhood socioeconomic status influences ADL/IADL in older residents in China through the neighborhood built environment and social environment. Methods Activities of daily living/IADL were assessed in a sample of 5,887 Chinese individuals aged 60 or older, utilizing data obtained from the 2011 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS 2011). Neighborhood SES was measured by the neighborhood per-capita net income. Neighborhood built environment was measured by the security resources, motion resources, living resources, service resources for older adults, and medical resources of neighborhood. Neighborhood social environment was measured by the organizations, unemployment subsidies, minimum living allowance, subsidies to persons older than 65, and pensions to persons older than 80 of the neighborhood. The two-level logistical regression model and multilevel structural equation model (MSEM) were used. Results The rate of ADL/IADL loss among Chinese older adults aged 60 and above in 2011 were 32.17 and 36.87%, respectively. Neighborhood SES was significantly associated with ADL/IADL in older adults. Compared with the respondents living in communities with lower SES, those living in communities with higher SES possessed better ADL (β = −0.33, p < 0.05) and IADL (β = −0.36, p < 0.05) status. The path of neighborhood socioeconomic status on ADL was completely mediated by the neighborhood built environment (β = −0.110, p < 0.05) and neighborhood social environment (β = −0.091, p < 0.05). Additionally, the effect of neighborhood socioeconomic status on IADL was fully mediated by the neighborhood built environment (β = −0.082, p < 0.05) and neighborhood social environment (β = −0.077, p < 0.05). Conclusion Neighborhood SES was significantly correlated with ADL/IADL through the neighborhood environment. Improving the ADL/IADL status of older adults residing in low socioeconomic neighborhoods requires enhancing the built and social environment by provisioning additional neighborhood resources.
Spectral Responses and Classification of Earth’sFeatures on Satellite Imagery

This Remote sensing is fast becoming one of the most successful techniques in studying and classifying land-cover classes. Satellite remote sensing technology has provided environmental managers with a relatively cheap and accessible technique to accurately classify earth’s features into common groups based on the similarities in behavior of their component structures. As the sun’s electromagnetic light energy reaches earth surface, they are either absorbed and/or re-radiated into the atmosphere, depending on the component and structure of the receiving surface. The extent of absorption or radiation also depends on these components. Space satellite sensors are able to determine the wavelengths of light energy absorbed and reflected by the earth’s surface. This paper assesses how three dominant land cover types (vegetation, water bodies and built-up areas which include buildings, pavements and tarmacs) usurp electromagnetic radiation, how satellite sensors are able to measure the radiation wavelengths and how RS technology uses data obtained by remote sensors which measure wavelengths of absorbed and reflected energy. The paper also presents the spectral response of these land cover types and their corresponding mathematical indices; Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, Normalized Difference Water Index and Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDVI, NDWI and NDBI). The paper shows that vegetation absorbs most of the visible light in the electromagnetic spectrum (red and blue) but has a high reflectance in the near-infrared (NIR) band of the electromagnetic spectrum. This is because infrared light inhibits photosynthesis causes desiccation. Deep water bodies, on the other hand, quickly absorb NIR and red wavelengths, and reflects blue wavelength back into the atmosphere. These indices can be used to compute and determine specific land cover types from a constellation of several land cover categories on satellite imageries. LandSat-8 imagery of Nantucket Island, state of Massachusetts, USA was used for the computation.
Post-traumatic stress disorder and neuromodulation methods in treating PTSD

In this review work, the article will go through post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in detail. In the introduction section, the review will first introduce PTSD as a whole. The type of treatment will be stated in order of severity of symptoms. Then, one paragraph regarding the genetic heritability of PTSD is provided. The details of brain regions affected by PTSD and differences in symptoms will also be explained in this review. Using the information provided, the review will analyze why Neuromodulation is a promising treatment for PTSD. In the body section, the review will describe ten different neuromodulations that either have been implanted to treat PTSD or can be a treatment for the disorder. These ten methods include non-invasive and invasive techniques, as the two can be applied in different stages of this neurological disorder. Some neuromodulation is not yet used to treat PTSD, yet they have been proven helpful in other brain(psychiatric) disorders. In the discussion, the review will cover any neuromodulation methods that are not included and comment on those. In the end, the review will emphasize the need to find practical solutions to PTSD and the idea of pushing non-invasive neuromodulation (brain stimulation) into the future treatment of PTSD.
Multimodal Forward Generation Transformer Network for Inconspicuous Pedestrian Trajectory Prediction

Pedestrian's future trajectory prediction is a key challenge in ego-centric view of autonomous driving system. Most of the current methods are flawed in capturing subtle change features in a lightweight model size. To solve this problem, we propose a multimodal forward generation transformer network based on encoder-decoder structure. Different from the traditional transformer, we improve layer normalization and propose frame normalization, which can more successfully capture minute time-variant properties. In addition, we believe that considering short-term pedestrian's future goals can help the ego-vehicle to predict more accurate and reasonable long-term pedestrians’ trajectory. Therefore, based on the idea of forward generation, the decoder considers the future short-term targets and uses trajectory-time correlation module to capture the relationship between estimated short-term future goals and global spatial-temporal context cues of the historical trajectory. Our model is evaluated on JAAD and PIE datasets and achieves state-of-the-art performance while maintaining a lightweight model size.
Whole Genome Sequencing and Comparative Analysis of the First Ehrlichia canis Isolate in China

Ehrlichia canis, a prominent tick-borne pathogen causing canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME), is one of the six recognized Ehrlichia species worldwide. Despite its widespread presence in ticks and host dogs in China, comprehensive genomic information about this pathogen remains limited. This study focuses on an in-depth analysis of E. canis YZ-1, isolated and cultured from an infected dog in China. The complete genome of E. canis YZ-1 was sequenced (1,314,789 bp, 1022 genes, 29% GC content, and 73% coding bases), systematically characterizing its genomic elements and functions. Comparative analysis with representative genomes of Ehrlichia species, including E. canis strain Jake, E. chaffeensis, Ehrlichia spp. , E. muris, E. ruminantium, and E. minasensis, revealed conserved genes, indicating potential evolutionary connections with E. ruminantium. The observed reduction in virulence-associated genes, coupled with a type IV secretion system (T4SS), suggests an intricate balance between pathogenicity and host adaptation. The close relationship with E. canis Jake and E. chaffeensis, alongside nuanced genomic variations with E. ruminantium and E. mineirensis, underscores the need to explore emerging strains and advancements in sequencing technologies continuously. This genetic insight opens avenues for innovative medications, studies on probiotic resistance, development of new detection markers, and progress in vaccine development for ehrlichiosis. Further investigations into the functional significance of identified genes and their role in host–pathogen interactions will contribute to a more holistic comprehension of Ehrlichia’s biology and its implications for pathogenicity and transmission.
Does knowledge and concern regarding food supplement safety affect the behavioral intention of consumers? An experimental study on the theory of reasoned action

In recent years, health crises have led consumers to make more frequent purchases of food supplements. The global food supplement market, which reached $61.20 billion in 2020, is estimated to reach $163.12 billion by 2022 and $350.96 billion by 2032. However, many consumers still have concerns about the safety of food supplements. Within the scope of the research, firstly, the health consciousness (HC) level of food supplement consumers was determined. Secondly, food safety knowledge (FSK) and food safety concerns (FSCs) were measured. Thirdly, consumers’ attitudes (ATUs), subjective norms (SNs), and behavioral intentions (BIs) toward food supplements were determined within the scope of the theory of reasoned action. The study used a convenient sampling, and 327 participants were included in the sample population. The data for the analysis was collected using the online survey method in the third quarter of 2023. The relationships between hypothesized items in the structural model were tested using the Smart-PLS. The validity and reliability of the measurement model were evaluated at the start of the structural equation modelling approach using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Regression analyses were performed in the structural model phase to evaluate overall fit and suggested relationships by way of the Smart-PLS. In light of the findings, it was determined that the interaction between HC and ATU was mediated by FSK, and the interaction between HC and the SN was mediated by FSK. Consequently, this research presents a variety of theoretical and practical implications to give clues for consumers’ health regarding food supplement consumption.
Thank you, government! Your support facilitated my intention to use mobile payment in the new normal era

Purpose This study aims to investigate the key determinants predicting users’ behavioural intention (BI) in adopting mobile payment (m-payment) in the new normal era. Design/methodology/approach The mobile technology acceptance model (MTAM) was extended through attitudes, perceived trust, perceived risk and personal innovativeness (PI) with government support (GS) functioning as a moderator. A total of 245 valid responses were gathered from Malaysian m-payment users with purposive sampling and subsequently evaluated through partial least square-structural equation modelling. Findings Mobile usefulness and PI significantly predicted user BI to use m-payment. Based on the moderation analysis, GS strengthened attitude-based impacts on BI towards m-payment adoption. Practical implications The empirical outcomes provide stakeholders with pivotal implications to develop holistic policies and strategies that potentially catalyse m-payment usage in the new normal era. Originality/value This research expands the current body of knowledge by assessing the factors impacting m-payment usage intention in the new normal era. The four aforementioned MTAM elements and GS (moderator) were recommended to boost model workability and offer novel evidence from a distinct viewpoint.
New Insights into the Comprehensive System of Thermodynamic Sensors and Electronic Nose and Its Practical Applications in Dough Fermentation Monitoring

This study focuses on an applicability of the device designed for monitoring dough fermentation. The device combines a complex system of thermodynamic sensors (TDSs) with an electronic nose (E-nose). The device’s behavior was tested in experiments with dough samples. The configuration of the sensors in the thermodynamic system was explored and their response to various positions of the heat source was investigated. When the distance of the heat source and its intensity from two thermodynamic sensors changes, the output signal of the thermodynamic system changes as well. Thus, as the distance of the heat source decreases or the intensity increases, there is a higher change in the output signal of the system. The linear trend of this change reaches an R2 value of 0.936. Characteristics of the doughs prepared from traditional and non-traditional flours were successfully detected using the electronic nose. To validate findings, the results of the measurements were compared with signals from the rheofermentometer Rheo F4, and the correlation between the output signals was closely monitored. The data after statistical evaluation show that the measurements using thermodynamic sensors and electronic nose directly correlate the most with the measured values of the fermenting dough volume. Pearson’s correlation coefficient for TDSs and rheofermentometer reaches up to 0.932. The E-nose signals also correlate well with dough volume development, up to 0.973. The data and their analysis provided by this study declare that the used system configuration and methods are fully usable for this type of food analysis and also could be usable in other types of food based on the controlled fermentation. The system configuration, based on the result, will be also used in future studies.
Formulated hydroxy fatty acids from fruit pomaces reduce apple scab development caused by Venturia inaequalis through a dual mode of action

The outermost hydrophobic layer of plants, i.e. the cuticle, is mainly composed of cutin, a polyester of hydroxy fatty acids with reported eliciting and/or antimicrobial activities for some of them. By-products of the fruit processing industry (fruit pomaces), often strongly enriched in cuticular material, are therefore a potential source of bioactive compounds for crop protection against pathogen attack. We investigated the utilization of tomato and apple pomaces in the development of a cutin-based biocontrol solution against apple scab, a major apple disease caused by Venturia inaequalis. Several cutin monomer extracts obtained through different strategies of depolymerization and purification were first compared for their ability to induce a targeted set of defense genes in apple seedlings after foliar application. After a step of formulation, some extracts were chosen for further investigation in planta and in vitro. Our results show that formulated cutin monomers could trigger a significant transcriptome reprogramming in apple plants and exhibit an antifungal effect on V. inaequalis. Cutin monomers-treated apple seedlings were significantly protected against infection by the apple scab agent. Altogether, our findings suggest that water-dispersed cutin monomers extracted from pomaces are potential new bio-based solutions for the control of apple scab.
GENETIC ASSOCIATION BETWEEN THE VARIATION OF DGAT1 GENE AND MILK PRODUCTION TRAITS IN KHALKHALI GOATS

The quantity of milk and milk fat and proteins are particularly important traits in dairy livestock. However, little is known about the regions of the genome that influence these traits in goats. This study was performed to investigate genetic variation and association analysis of diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) gene on important traits in Khalkhali dairy goats. PCR-SSCP method and Sanger sequencing were used for genotyping. In total, three different SSCP patterns (I, II, III with frequency 0.35, 0.56 and 0.10 respectively) were identified that leads to cause four mutations in exon 17 of DGAT1 gene. The mutations T21153G, C21154G cause changes serine to glycine amino acids and A21172C leads to change in Aspartic acid to Alanine amino acid and one mutation A21194T was silent. Association analysis indicated that haplotypes were related with milk yield and protein percentage of Khalkhali goat (p<0.05), but there is no relationship with milk lactose and solid matter percentage (p<0.05). Our findings indicate that polymorphisms of the caprine DGAT1 gene might be important genetic factors influencing milk traits, and the results of this study provide valuable information about the markers applicable in marker-assisted selection programs in goat breeding and production.
Enhancing spatial navigation skills in mild cognitive impairment patients: a usability study of a new version of ANTaging software

Introduction Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) often presents challenges related to spatial navigation and retention of spatial information. Navigating space involves intricate integration of bodily and environmental cues. Spatial memory is dependent on two distinct frame of reference systems for organizing this information: egocentric and allocentric frames of reference. Virtual Reality (VR) has emerged as a promising technology for enhancing spatial navigation skills and spatial memory by facilitating the manipulation of bodily, environmental, and cognitive cues. Methods This usability study was based on a fully within-subjects design in which seven MCI patients underwent two kinds of VR conditions: participants were required to complete the ANTaging demo both in Oculus Rift S (immersive condition) and in Samsung UHD 4K monitor (semi-immersive condition). Participants were seated and they had to use a foot-motion pad to navigate and explore the environment to collect and relocate some objects in the virtual environment. Post-interaction, users provided feedback on their experiences. Additionally, usability, potential side effects, data analysis feasibility, and user preferences with immersive and semi-immersive technologies were assessed through questionnaires. Results Results indicated higher usability ratings for the semi-immersive setup, with fewer negative effects reported compared to the immersive counterpart. According to qualitative analyses of the interviews, patients do seem to like both VR apparatuses even though the semi-immersive condition was perceived as the most suitable choice because of the size of the screen. Patients generally found it difficult to remember object locations. Participants expressed the need for more practice with the foot-motion pad, despite an overall positive experience. They generally would like to use this system to improve their memory. Discussion Identifying these key aspects was crucial for refining the system before the upcoming clinical trial. This study sheds light on the potential of semi-immersive VR in aiding individuals with MCI, paving the way for enhanced spatial navigation interventions.
Satellite Image Dehazing Based on Dual Frequency Pass Networks

Remote sensing using satellite imagery has been actively researched, inducing various applications of computer vision. In this field, the quality of satellite images is very important in facilitating continuous Earth observation and environmental monitoring. However, even after undergoing various correction processes, satellite images inevitably contain haze and clouds. The presence of these haze and clouds introduces numerous challenges to the acquisition of high-quality satellite images. In this study, we present a novel dehazing method designed to enhance the quality of satellite images named dual frequency pass networks (DFPNs). The proposed method comprises two branches: a transformer branch for capturing low-frequency components and a convolution branch for extracting high-frequency components. Thus, this approach can consider both the global features from the transformer and the local features from the convolution. The experiments demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms other state-of-the-art methods.