Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Endmember Variability in hyperspectral image unmixing

The fine spectral resolution of hyperspectral remote sensing images allows an accurate analysis of the imaged scene, but due to their limited spatial resolution, a pixel acquired by the sensor is often a mixture of the contributions of several materials. Spectral unmixing aims at estimating the spectra of the pure materials (called endmembers) in the scene, and their abundances in each pixel. The endmembers are usually assumed to be perfectly represented by a single spectrum, which is wrong in practice since each material exhibits a significant intra-class variability. This thesis aims at designing unmixing algorithms to better handle this phenomenon. First, we perform the unmixing locally in well chosen regions of the image where variability effects are less important, and automatically discard wrongly estimated local endmembers using collaborative sparsity. In another approach, we refine the abundance estimation of the materials by taking into account the group structure of an image-derived endmember dictionary. Second, we introduce an extended linear mixing model, based on physical considerations, modeling spectral variability in the form of scaling factors, and develop optimization algorithms to estimate its parameters. This model provides easily interpretable results and outperforms other state-of-the-art approaches. We finally investigate two applications of this model to confirm its relevance.
Indoxyl Sulfate-Induced Valve Endothelial Cell Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Calcification in an Integrin-Linked Kinase-Dependent Manner

Calcific Aortic Valve Disease (CAVD) is a significant concern for cardiovascular health and is closely associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Aortic valve endothelial cells (VECs) play a significant role in the onset and progression of CAVD. Previous research has suggested that uremic toxins, particularly indoxyl sulfate (IS), induce vascular calcification and endothelial dysfunction, but the effect of IS on valve endothelial cells (VECs) and its contribution to CAVD is unclear. Our results show that IS reduced human VEC viability and increased pro-calcific markers RUNX2 and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) expression. Additionally, IS-exposed VECs cultured in pro-osteogenic media showed increased calcification. Mechanistically, IS induced endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), evidenced by the loss of endothelial markers and increased expression of mesenchymal markers. IS triggered VEC inflammation, as revealed by NF-kB activation, and decreased integrin-linked kinase (ILK) expression. ILK overexpression reversed the loss of endothelial phenotype and RUNX2, emphasizing its relevance in the pathogenesis of CAVD in CKD. Conversely, a lower dose of IS intensified some of the effects in EndMT caused by silencing ILK. These findings imply that IS affects valve endothelium directly, contributing to CAVD by inducing EndMT and calcification, with ILK acting as a crucial modulator.
Study of Probiotic Activity of Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Lactobacillus Rhamnosus on NonEscherichia Coli Enterobacterales

Introduction: Probiotic activity of L. acidophilus and L. rhamnosus was great intend to treat pathogenic organism. The antibiotic resistance problem, it is important to develop Lactobacillus based approaches to combat Citrobacter koseri, Enterobacter cloacae, Serratia marcescens, Morganella morganii, and Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris and Klebsiella aerogenes -induced urinary tract infections, catheter-associated infections, and intestinal tract infections in the current situation. Aim/Objectives: In this study, our goal was to assess the in vitro antimicrobial activity of L. acidophilus and L. rhamnosus against clinical isolates of MDR, XDR, Non-MDR and ESBL strains of C. koseri, E. cloacae, S. marcescens, M. morganii, P. mirabilis, P. vulgaris and K. aerogenes . Methods: Antibiotic susceptibility of the test strains was determined by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The antimicrobial activities of treated and untreated L. acidophilus and L. rhamnosus against the above mentioned MDR, XDR, Non-MDR and ESBL pathogens were determined by agar overlay spot test. Mean zone of inhibition was statistically analyzed using ANOVA single factor. Results: Among L. acidophilus and L. rhamnosus the mean value displayed the potent activity against most test isolates with mean zones of inhibition ranging from 4 to 15 mm and the p -value <0.05 were considered for significant action with varying result against different organisms. Conclusion: The Lactobacillus spp . as a probiotic may play a promising role in this era of rapidly growing burden of drug resistant organisms.
Alcohol extract of Rubia yunnanensis: Metabolic alterations and preventive effects against OGD/R‑induced oxidative damage in HT22 cells

The present study investigated the inhibitory and neuroprotective effects of Rubia yunnanensis alcohol extract (RY-A) on oxidative stress induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) in HT22 cells. In vitro cultured HT22 cells were randomly divided into control, OGD/R, OGD/R + 100 µmol/l edaravone and OGD/R + 10, 20 and 40 µg/ml RY-A groups. Oxygen-sugar deprivation was performed with 10 mmol/l sodium dithionite combined with sugar-free DMEM medium for 2 h, followed by re-glycolization and reoxygenation for 2 h to establish an in vitro OGD/R model. Cell morphology was observed under a phase contrast microscope. Cell survival rate was detected by thiazolyl blue and lactate dehydrogenase and oxidative stress-related indexes were detected by commercial kits. The effects and metabolic alterations of RY-A treatment after OGD/R were evaluated using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Protein levels were further examined by western blotting. The results showed that cells in the OGD/R group were swollen and lacked protrusions, had significantly reduced viability and had significantly elevated oxidative stress-related indexes of reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide levels and malondialdehyde content and significantly reduced activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, compared with controls. Compared with the OGD/R group, the RY-A group had significantly improved cell morphology and significantly increased cell viability and in terms of oxidative stress, exhibited significantly reduced reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide levels and malondialdehyde content, as well as significantly increased superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities. Metabolomic analysis identified changes in 20 metabolites, including L-tryptophan, ornithine, eicosapentaenoic acid-d5, isosafrole and xanthine. Metabolomics analysis showed that the pathways affected included those related to phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, the prolactin signaling pathway and amphetamine addiction. These results suggested that RY-A had significant preventive effects on an in vitro model of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury simulated by OGD/R and the mechanism may be related to increased tryptophan content, activation of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase enzymes and inhibition of oxidative stress.
Evaluation of two advanced generation boro rice mutants based on morpho-physiological criteria

Experiments were performed at farmers’ fields of five locations viz., Mymensingh, Sherpur, Jamalpur, Natore and Naogaon districts with two promising Boro rice mutants, RM-16(N)-8, RM-16(N)-10 and a check, BRRI dhan58 to evaluate some morpho-physiological features and its impact on grain yield. The experiment was setup in RCB design with three replications. Results revealed that high yielding genotypes, in general, showed superiority in morpho-physiological characters (leaf area, leaf area index, total dry mass production, absolute growth rate, relative growth rate, chlorophyll, total sugar and soluble protein content in leaves and harvest index) than the low yielding one. Results further indicated that genotype improvement efforts have achieved higher grain yield by higher growth rate at early growth stages and better assimilate partitioning to economic yield and short stature plants are unlikely to improve harvest index and resistant to lodging in rice. The mutant, RM-16(N)-10 had medium plant stature with greater biomass production capacity, superiority in growth and biochemical parameters and improve dry matter partitioning to economic yield which resulted higher number of grains panicle-1, thereby grain yield. In contrast, RM-16(N)-8 showed inferiority in morpho-physiological characters and performed the lowest yield attributes and grain yield. This information may be used in future plant breeding programme. Bangladesh J. Nuclear Agric, 37(2): 69-80, 2023
Treasury Single Account

This technical note and manual addresses the following main issues: 1. Discusses the problems of fragmented government banking arrangements and how a treasury single account (TSA) could address them. 2. Explains the concept of a TSA and describes its features. 3. Discusses the design issues that need to be considered in setting up a TSA system. 4. Discusses the preconditions and key sequencing and implementation issues that need to be addressed in establishing a TSA.
WMO Typhoon Landfall Forecast Demonstration Projects (WMO-TLFDP) —Concept and Progress

ABSTRACT The World Expo 2010 was successfully held in Shanghai from May to October 2010. Activities related to the Expo were spread out in the Eastern China. To provide a better typhoon landfall forecast service for the Expo and to demonstrate the most advanced typhoon forecast techniques in the world, the “WMO Typhoon Landfall Forecast Demonstration Project (WMO-TLFDP)” began in May 2010 and will end in December 2012. It is a component of the Shanghai Multi-Hazard Early Warning System Project. Significant progresses have been made. First, the WMO-TLFDP Training Workshop on Tropical Cyclone Forecasting was held successfully in Shanghai, China during 24-28 May, 2010. Second. a total of 13 typhoon forecast product providers have participated in the project by providing real-time forecast products. Third, typhoon track, intensity and rainfall forecasts are verified in both real time and post season manners. Fourth, products of the project are disseminated through the project’s website ( http://tlfdp.typhoon.gov.cn ) and the operational website of the Shanghai Typhoon Warning Center. Finally, all the data and products of named tropical cyclones since May 2010 are archived by the Regional Meteorological Center of Eastern China, which are available to research, training and capacity-building activities. It is demonstrated that current operational models are valuable in providing guidance to the forecast of not only track, but also intensity and heavy rainfall of tropical cyclones. Consensus techniques and ensemble prediction systems are promising in assisting the forecasters and decision makers to provide better tropical cyclone forecast and warning service. The WMO-TLFDP has supported effectively the forecasters and typhoon-related weather services during the World EXPO 2010, and it will continue to promote the implementation of the most advanced typhoon forecast techniques among the members of ESCAP/WMO Typhoon Committee, which ultimately will be of benefit to other WMO Members as well.
Significance of Proficiency in the English Language within the Realm of Education in Pakistan

This paper underscores the pivotal role of English language proficiency in the educational domain, shedding light on the challenges students face when expressing themselves in English within classroom settings. It emphasizes the profound impact that English proficiency exerts on students’ overall learning experiences and offers practical insights to enhance language skills. Recognizing effective communication as a cornerstone of success in contemporary society, the paper provides valuable tips for improving language skills, particularly in the context of spoken English. Mastering English is deemed essential for success in various professional fields, given its status as the global lingua franca. The article advocates for educational institutions to create conducive environments for developing students’ speaking abilities, crucial not only for career advancement but also for societal integration. In today’s interconnected world, English proficiency is a key asset for navigating the global landscape successfully. The ability to communicate effectively in English is not only a gateway to enhanced career opportunities but also facilitates integration into diverse societies. The paper concludes by reinforcing the fact that individuals with a strong command of the English language are warmly welcomed on a global scale, highlighting the enduring importance of English proficiency in our interconnected world.
A remote sensing based approach to determine evapotranspiration in the Mbire District of Zimbabwe.

Water availability and consumption assessments are important for integrated water resources management. Such assessments are usually hindered by the lack of hydro-meteorological data to close the water balance. Remote sensing based methods and hydrological modelling techniques provide tools to obtain estimates of spatial and temporal variation of key water balance components such as evaporation, transpiration and soil moisture which account for about 65 % of the global water budget. In this study, twenty atmospherically corrected MODIS images taken between 2005 and 2015 in the Mbire District in Zimbabwe were processed using the Surface Energy Balance System (SEBS) algorithm to determine the actual evapotranspiration (ETA). The study revealed an increasing trend of actual evapotranspiration from 2005 to 2015, with values of ETA of around7 mm/day being observed in the densely forested regions as compared to 3 mm/day for grassland. Results also showed that the SEBS estimated mean ETA values (3.79 mm/day) were within reasonable range of the mean Potential ET (3.31 mm/day) for the 3 automatic stations which were setup in the district during the period of study. The Topographic driven rainfall runoff model (TOPMODEL) whose land surface inputs were obtained from remote sensing techniques was calibrated with runoff data and was extended to simulate soil moisture patterns as well as ETA from September 2008 to August 2010. The model simulation yielded Nash Sutcliffe (NSE) values of 0.4 and 0.1 for Manyame and Angwa respectively during the calibration period. Results for soil moisture estimation by TOPMODEL showed high levels of soil moisture (mean value of 80 %) along river channels, valleys and floodplains. The point to pixel comparison of soil moisture simulated by the model and the one retrieved by the data logger at Chidodo station showed a difference of 12 %. A water balance analysis for the basin was conducted by subtracting all outflows from the basin inflows, the inputs driven by SEBS and/or TOPMODEL. Results of the precipitation and evapotranspiration estimates reveal that, the Mbire District received an average of 4.37 mm/day and 4.66 mm/day respectively from November to the end of March 2016. Refinement of the analysis was achieved by dividing the Mbire District into 3 hydrological sub-catchments and this saw an improved SEBS derived water balance closure by 7.2 %, 16.5 % and 12.8 % as compared to 11 %, 20 % and 16.1 % by TOPMODEL for the Angwa, Manyame and Musengezi basins respectively. Ultimately a combination of GIS, hydrological modelling and remote sensing techniques have proven to be an affordable and efficient means of determining water balance parameters, closure of water balance, determine water availability and hence facilitate easier and more efficient analyses in areas where point data may be scarce or unavailable. ,WaterNet
Underwater Human Arm Manipulator – System Calibration

Controlling a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) is an extremely challenging task that requires precise maneuvering and navigation in complex as well as often unpredictable environments. The operator faces numer - ous difficulties, including limited visibility and communication constraints, in addition to the need to interpret data from various sensors. This paper describes a method for calibration of a wearable system equipped with inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensors that control the underwater manipulators. To implement a solution that allows the robot to be controlled by the operator’s hand movements, it is necessary to measure the movement of the arm. This task is carried out using the IMU sensors, which are mounted in appropriate places on the ROV operator’s suit to allow mapping the movement of his/her upper limbs. These movements are transferred to the manipulator’s arms on the ROV, making it possible to interact with the environment by – manipulating objects under-water.
Socioeconomic Impacts of Transportation Infrastructure at Different Spatial Scales

Bardaka, Eleni Ph.D., Purdue University, December 2016. Socioeconomic Impacts of Transportation Infrastructure at Different Spatial Scales. Major Professors: Raymond J.G. M. Florax, Jon Fricker. Inducing economic growth through appropriate transportation investments and policies and simultaneously focusing on reducing income disparities and equitably distributing the benefits of transportation improvements is a challenge researchers and policymakers currently face. Despite the considerable research on the evaluation of wider economic impacts (such as travel time reliability, market access, and connectivity impacts) of transportation projects, limited studies have been devoted to the evaluation of transportation project externalities disproportionately experienced by lower-income or spatially segregated communities. This dissertation contributes to the research in the area of socioeconomic and distributional implications of transportation investments by: (i) studying the effects of transportation infrastructure development on economic growth and income inequality at a macroscopic level and (ii) developing a methodology for quantifying the potentially causal relationship between gentrification (measured as socioeconomic change) and urban rail development at a regional level. Through the macro-level analysis, this study attempts to estimate the direct impacts of transportation infrastructure development on the mean income (GDP) and the income distribution (income inequality), as well as the indirect impacts emerging from the hypothesized relationship between GDP and income inequality. These impacts are modeled within a system of simultaneous equations and estimated using three-stage least squares. Microdata from nationally-representative household surveys from 36 countries are used to calculate measures of income inequality. Only two measures of transportation infrastructure (road density and railroad density) are used
EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS ON AUTOIMMUNE MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AMONG PHARMACY AND NURSING STUDENTS OF CHITRADURGA – A DESCRIPTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Objectives: The study’s goals were to evaluate knowledge and awareness among the students regarding multiple sclerosis (MS) and to compare the knowledge of the same among pharmacy and nursing students. Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among the pharmacy and nursing students of Chitradurga, carried out for 6 months. The questionnaire was distributed among students containing 15 questions regarding MS. Each accurate response received a score of “1,” while every incorrect response received “0. ” The frequency and percentage were obtained using descriptive approaches. The data are presented as a frequency distribution of mean and standard deviation (SD). Results: A total of 500 participants were enrolled in the study, among which 319 were pharmacy students and 181 were nursing students. The results analyzed that the knowledge assessment mean scores of pharmacy students were higher than those of nursing students. It also showed that students who come under the age group of 23–27 years have higher knowledge compared to the 18–22-year age group. Conclusion: This study concluded that pharmacy students had a piece of better knowledge than nursing students since these occupations play such a significant part in providing health care, knowledge, and understanding need to be raised. Hence, awareness and education about MS should be conducted to enhance students’ knowledge.
Picturing (as) Resistance: Studying Resistance and Well-Being of Indigenous Girls and Young Women in Addressing Sexual Violence

The health and well-being of young people remains a critical issue. For Indigenous girls and young women in Canada and South Africa, the situation is exacerbated by high rates of sexual violence. The article draws on examples of artworks and close readings of several images of resistance produced by Indigenous girls and young women participating in a six-year study that seeks to address sexual violence in the two countries. Exploring resistance is an understudied area in relation to young people and well-being. Building on our visual research and fieldwork, we posit that the idea of “picturing (as) resistance” through the various participatory visual and arts-based tools is a promising area of investigation in relation to wellbeing.
Melatonin, an adjuvant for neonatal sepsis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Link of Video Abstract: https://youtu.be/QMfynOrGWxM Introduction: Neonatal sepsis remains a serious health problem in some countries, especially in developing countries, like Indonesia. The standard treatment for sepsis is the administration of antibiotics. Melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland, has beneficial effects in fighting free radicals, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. However, in newborns, melatonin is minimally detectable. Adjuvant therapy is required for the deterrence and neonatal sepsis therapy. This study aims to systematically review and perform a meta-analysis of melatonin as an adjunctive therapy in treating neonatal sepsis with the addition of the most recent articles. Methods: Databases of electronics used such as PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Controlled Trials Register were searched systematically in October 2022 for clinical trials reporting the efficacy of melatonin as adjunctive therapy for neonatal sepsis. We compared treatment responses between groups using serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as an endpoint biomarker. Data analysis was performed to appraise the quality of enrolled studies using a comprehensive meta-analysis Revman 5.4 and bias tool risk of the Cochrane Collaboration. Results: Four trials with a total of 175 subjects were listed in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Pooled analysis showed a statistically significant mean difference in serum CRP level (mg/L) between groups 24 hours after adjuvant melatonin therapy (-1.63 mg/L; 95% CI: -3.20 to -0.054; P=0.043). Conclusion: Melatonin as an adjunctive therapy significantly lowers CRP levels. Larger, sample size studies are necessary to establish clear clinical benefits of this treatment.