Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Investigation of altered spontaneous brain activity in patients with bronchial asthma using the percent amplitude of fluctuation method: a resting-state functional MRI study

Purpose To explore the regions of aberrant spontaneous brain activity in asthma patients and their potential impacts using the Percent amplitude of fluctuation (PerAF) analysis method. Patients and methods In this study, a total of 31 bronchial asthma (BA) patients were ultimately included, comprising 17 males and 14 females. Subsequently, 31 healthy control subjects (HCS) were recruited, consisting of 17 males and 14 females, and they were matched with the BA group based on age, sex, and educational status. The PerAF analysis technique was employed to study the differences in spontaneous brain activity between the two groups. The SPM12 toolkit was used to carry out a two sample t-test on the collected fMRI data, in order to examine the differences in PerAF values between the asthma patients and the healthy controls. We employed the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale and the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) to evaluate the cognitive and emotional states of the two groups. Pearson correlation analysis was utilized to ascertain the relationship between changes in the PerAF values within specific brain regions and cognitive as well as emotional conditions. Results Compared with the healthy control group, areas of the brain with reduced PerAF in asthma patients included the inferior cerebellum, fusiform gyrus, right inferior orbital frontal gyrus, left middle orbital frontal gyrus, left/right middle frontal gyrus (MFG), dorsal lateral superior frontal gyrus (SFGdl), left superior temporal gyrus (STG), precuneus, right inferior parietal lobule (IPL), and left/right angular gyrus. BA patients exhibit mild cognitive impairments and a propensity for emotional disturbances. Furthermore, the perAF values of the SFGdl region are significantly positively correlated with the results of the MoCA cognitive assessment, while negatively correlated with the HAMD evaluation. Conclusion Through the application of PerAF analysis methods, we discovered that several brain regions in asthma patients that control the amplitude of respiration, vision, memory, language, attention, and emotional control display abnormal changes in intrinsic brain activity. This helps characterize the neural mechanisms behind cognitive, sensory, and motor function impairments in asthma patients, providing valuable insights for potential therapeutic targets and disease management strategies.
Extraction of Surface Features from LiDAR Point Clouds Using Incremental Segmentation Strategy

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) point clouds are measurements of irregularly distributed points on scanned object surfaces acquired with airborne or terrestrial LiDAR systems. Feature extraction is the key to transform LiDAR data into spatial information. Surface features are dominant in most LiDAR data corresponding to scanned object surfaces. This paper proposes a general method to segment co-surface points. An incremental segmentation strategy is developed for the implementation, which comprises several algorithms and employs various criteria to gradually segment LiDAR point clouds into several levels. There are four operation steps. First, the proximity of point clouds is established as spatial indices defined in an octree-structured voxel space. Second, a connected-component labeling algorithm for voxels is applied for segmenting neighboring points. Third, coplanar points then can be segmented with the octree-based split-and-merge algorithm as plane features. Finally, combining neighboring plane features forms surface features. With respect to each step, processed LiDAR point clouds are segmented into organized points, neighboring point groups, coplanar point groups, and co-surface point groups. The proposed method enables an incremental retrieval and analysis of a large LiDAR dataset. Experiment results demonstrate the effectiveness of the segmentation algorithm in handling both airborne and terrestrial LiDAR data. The end results as well as the intermediate results of the segmentation may be useful for object modeling of different purposes using LiDAR data.
Oral Health and Behavior Patterns of Women with Eating Disorders—A Clinical Pilot Study

Background: Chronic stomach regurgitation associated with eating disorders (EDs) poses a high risk for tooth erosion. This study investigated oral health conditions, behavioral patterns, and tooth erosion in women with EDs. Methods: 16 ED and 13 healthy women were enrolled; 14 ED and 10 healthy control subjects completed the study. Subjects completed demographic, medical, oral, and behavioral health history questionnaires. Dental caries status was recorded as Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth (DMFT)index and the severity of tooth erosion as Basic Erosive Wear Examination (BEWE) scores. Saliva was collected for flow rate, pH, and buffering capacity analysis. Results: The ED group had a lower stimulated saliva flow rate and higher DMFT index but no significant difference in BEWE scores compared to the controls (t-test, significance level 0.05). Five of the fourteen ED subjects exhibited extensive tooth erosion, which may have been exacerbated by their tooth-brushing behavior. Conclusions: Although some ED subjects showed extensive tooth erosion in this pilot study, the average BEWE score of the ED group was not significantly different from the controls. Extensive tooth erosion in ED may relate to the low stimulated salivary flow. A larger-scale clinical study is necessary to validate these results.
The Formulation and Evaluation of Melaleuca alternifolia Cheel and Cymbopogon flexuosus Linn Essential Oils Emulgel for the Treatment of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

The global concern regarding the occurrence of antifungal resistance to synthetic conventional azoles used for treating vulvovaginal candidiasis, along with the associated side effects, is significant. Consequently, the pursuit for substitutes such as natural therapies has ensued. Essential oils, derived from plants, have been extensively researched and found to possess antibacterial and antifungal properties. This study aimed to assess the antifungal efficacy of two essential oils, both alone and in combination, against Candida albicans. Essential oils were formulated into an emulgel separately and as combinations. The essential oils of Melaleuca alternifolia and Cymbopogon flexuosus were used in this study. The resulting emulgel formulations were characterized for their antifungal activity against Candida albicans. Physiochemical properties such as pH, viscosity, and appearance were also determined. The prepared emulgels were thereafter observed for stability over a period of 1 month. The MIC of Melaleuca alternifolia was seen to be 50 µL/mL while Cymbopogon flexuous was seen to be more potent at 25 µL/mL against C. albicans exhibiting strong synergistic effect at 0.4. The emulgel formed was white in color, smooth on skin, and had the odor of the essential oils, which is sweet to the nose. The pH of the formulations with the essential oils were acidic in the range of 3.70–3.83, making them suitable for vagina application. The emulgels had viscosities ranging from 4417.6 to 8968.7 mPas, owing to the thickness of the essential oils contained. The emulgel formulation with the combination of essential oils was more potent that the two with individual essential oils; furthermore, the one with Cymbopogon flexuous was more potent than the one with Melaleuca alternifolia. Based on the properties of the formulated emulgels and their activity against the test organism, the preparations have significant potential in the management of vulvovaginal candidiasis.
Inverse modeling of interbed storage parameters using land subsidence observations, Antelope Valley, California

We use land‐subsidence observations from repeatedly surveyed benchmarks and interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) in Antelope Valley, California, to estimate spatially varying compaction time constants, τ, and inelastic specific skeletal storage coefficients, S*kv, in a previously calibrated regional groundwater flow and subsidence model. The observed subsidence patterns reflect both the spatial distribution of head declines and the spatially variable inelastic skeletal storage coefficient. Using the nonlinear parameter estimation program UCODE we estimate compaction time constants between 3.8 and 285 years. The S*kv values are estimated by linear estimation and range from 0 to almost 0.09. We find that subsidence observations over long time periods are necessary to constrain estimates of the large compaction time constants in Antelope Valley. The InSAR data used in this study cover only a three‐year period, limiting their usefulness in constraining these time constants. This problem will be alleviated as more SAR data become available in the future or where time constants are small. By incorporating the resulting parameter estimates in the previously calibrated regional model of groundwater flow and land subsidence we can significantly improve the agreement between simulated and observed land subsidence both in terms of magnitude and spatial extent. The sum of weighted squared subsidence residuals, a common measure of model fit, was reduced by 73% with respect to the original model. However, the ability of the model to adequately reproduce the subsidence observed over only a few years is impaired by the fact that the simulated hydraulic heads over small time periods are often not representative of the actual aquifer hydraulic heads. Errors in the simulated hydraulic aquifer heads constitute the primary limitation of the approach presented here.
A Holistic Perspective: Investigating the Links between Workplace Spirituality, Organizational Commitment, and Well-Being among Higher Education Professionals

This comprehensive review paper investigates the intricate relationships among workplace spirituality, organizational commitment, and well-being in the distinctive context of higher education institutions. With the overarching goal of cultivating a supportive and spiritually nurturing workplace environment, this study rigorously explores the presence and impact of spiritual support practices in higher education. Employing a systematic research methodology, 25 pertinent articles were meticulously selected from an initial pool of 130 publications, sourced from platforms such as “Google Scholar,” “Scopus,” “Web of Science,” and “Research Gate. ” The discussion section critically examines the interplay between workplace spirituality and organizational commitment, underscoring the crucial distinction between organizational and personal spirituality. It further delves into the implications of workplace spirituality on the well-being of higher education professionals, particularly in light of the evolving challenges and opportunities within academia. Notably, the COVID-19 pandemic is acknowledged as a transformative force that has highlighted the pivotal role of academic staff in distinguishing educational institutions. In conclusion, this review paper accentuates the transformative potential of workplace spirituality within the competitive academic landscape. It posits that workplace spirituality engenders positive outcomes for individuals, groups, and organizations, playing a pivotal role in enhancing overall effectiveness. The paper underscores the imperative for higher education institutions to nurture agile and motivated teaching staff, prioritizing their well-being and professional growth. By integrating spirituality into the academic milieu, institutions can foster healthier workspaces, attract and retain top-tier talent, and contribute significantly to the holistic development of their faculty members. In summary, this review paper offers a holistic perspective on optimizing the academic work environment by exploring the complex dynamics of workplace spirituality, organizational commitment, and well-being within higher education institutions.
Genetic Diversity and Genetic Structure of Three Sympatric Oak Species in Serbian Landscape of Outstanding Features "Kosmaj" Assessed by Nuclear Microsatellites

Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl. , Q. pubescens Willd. , and Q. frainetto Ten. grow naturally in sympatry in the Landscape of Outstanding Features "Kosmaj" (Mt. Kosmaj) in Serbia, in the Western Balkans. The levels of genetic diversity and genetic structure in populations of these species (160 trees in total) was assessed by means of 14 nuclear microsatellites. The number of alleles detected in overall sample was 314, with the locus QrZAG90 being the most informative one in all three species (31, 35 and 36 alleles in Q. frainetto, Q. pubescens and Q. petraea, respectively). The levels of genetic diversity of all three species were relatively high (HE = 0.824, 0.834, and 0.794 in Q. petraea, Q. pubescens and Q. frainetto, respectively). Low but statistically significant inbreeding was detected in all three species (F = 0.100, 0.131 and 0.065 in Q. petraea, Q. pubescens and Q. frainetto, respectively), which, however, most likely reflects population substructure, which was observed in the STRUCTURE analysis. The optimal number of genetic groups revealed by Bayesian clustering analysis did not coincide with the number of analyzed species as it amounted to four (one gene pool was observed in each of the two species, Q. petraea and Q. pubescens, while two gene pools were observed in Q. pubescens). Furthermore, a higher level of hierarchical genetic structure, with six gene pools was found, with Q. frainetto being the only oak species in which population substructure was not observed. Genetic differentiation of three sympatric oak species was relatively low but statistically significant, with the highest FST value found among Q. petraea and Q. frainetto (FST = 0.047, P = 0.001), and the lowest between Q. petraea and Q. pubescens (FST = 0.032, P = 0.001). Our results reveal rather high levels of genetic diversity in all three studied oak species, which retained their genetic integrity despite sympatric distribution, indicating low levels of interspecific hybridization, and pronounced genetic structure of Q. pubescens and Q. petraea.
Aspects of the repartition of the saproxylic beetles in forests (French Alps)

Aspects de la repartition des coleopteres saproxyliques en foret (Alpes francaises). - Cette etude des coleopteres saproxyliques et du bois mort dans 4 forets alpines montre que les communautes saproxyliques presentent de fortes individualites correspondant au secteur geographique mais egalement aux types d'essences en presence. La distinction se fait entre taxons vivant a partir des bois de feuillus (principalement des mycophages et des saproxylophages) et de resineux (principalement des xylophages). Nos donnees confortent la relation theorique entre la quantite d'habitat et la diversite biologique puisque le nombre de fragments ligneux explique mieux la richesse taxinomique que le volume total.
Green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles from Spermacoce ocymoides Burm.f. plant extracts for targeted lung cancer A549 cell therapy

The present study evaluated the synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles using Spermacoce ocymoides Burm.f. plant extracts, and the effects of plant based iron oxide nanoparticles on A549 lung cancer cells were investigated to elucidate their impact on cellular morphology, mitochondrial function, and apoptotic pathways. Spermacoce ocymoides plant based iron oxide nanoparticles were characterised by X-ray diffraction, Atomic force microscopy, FTIR, and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. Iron oxide nanoparticle treatment caused considerable morphological alterations in A549 cells, including cell shrinkage, detachment, membrane blabbing, and distorted shape, consistent with cellular stress and potential apoptotic events. MMP analysis revealed a dose-dependent decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, implying that nanoparticles have an effect on mitochondrial function. The presence of reactive oxygen species suggested that oxidative stress was involved in the cellular response to iron oxide nanoparticles. Additionally, DNA fragmentation analysis confirmed the activation of apoptotic pathways, with the nanoparticles themselves serving as a positive control for inducing apoptosis. The observed morphological changes, altered mitochondrial function, ROS production, and DNA fragmentation collectively point towards apoptotic cell death pathways being triggered by the nanoparticles. KEY WORDS: Spermacoce ocymoides, Iron oxide nanoparticles, A549 cells, Apoptotic Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(1), 123-134. DOI: https://dx.doi. org/10.4314/bcse.v38i1. 10
An Extended Application of Fuzzy Complex Proportional Assessment Decision-Making Approach to Diagnose Vector-Borne Diseases

Making medical decisions can be challenging because they heavily rely on the knowledge, expertise, and judgement of the doctor. A Physician needs to be knowledgeable, but they also need to understand many other things. Medical diagnosis employs a variety of multi-criteria decision-making approaches. The core goal of this study work is to present an appropriate decision-making model, Fuzzy Complex Proportional Assessment (F-COPRAS) to diagnose vector-borne diseases.
Screening and Analysis of Potential Inhibitors of SHMT2

Serine hydroxymethyltransferase 2 (SHMT2) has garnered significant attention as a critical catalytic regulator of the serine/glycine pathway in the one-carbon metabolism of cancer cells. Despite its potential as an anti-cancer target, only a limited number of inhibitors have been identified so far. In this study, we employed seven different scoring functions and skeleton clustering to screen the ChemDiv database for 38 compounds, 20 of which originate from the same skeleton structure. The most significant residues from SHMT2 and chemical groups from the inhibitors were identified using ASGBIE (Alanine Scanning with Generalized Born model and Interaction Entropy), and the binding energy of each residue was quantitatively determined, revealing the essential features of the protein–inhibitor interaction. The two most important contributing residues are TYR105 and TYR106 of the B chain followed by LEU166 and ARG425 of the A chain. The findings will be greatly helpful in developing a thorough comprehension of the binding mechanisms involved in drug–SHMT2 interactions and offer valuable direction for designing more potent inhibitors.
Application of Neural Network Algorithms to Implement Drug Abuse Research on Identifying Cannabis Use Disorder through Analysing Personality Traits

Frequent cannabis use will certainly lead to a reasonable mental complication. Daily and long-time period cannabis use is associated with more intellectual loss. This is identified as cannabis use disorder (CUD). The CUD starting at the teen age is the strongest predictors of cognitive impairment. However, it's miles uncertain which comes first. Whether CUD results in early onset cannabis use or cannabisearly use in lives reasons the CUD. The aim of this paper is to investigate the most influential features origins the CUD among the cannabis user’s personality trails. Depending on the self-extracted data collected from 1885 individuals three of the NN models were built. These three NN models apply the 10-Fold cross validation and 30-70 Hold-Out validation methods to provide the reliability of the prediction results. Among the three methods the RNN Hold-Out method achieves 99.19% as best accuracy result.
Impact of Online Distribution Systems of Room Reservations on Hotel Revenue: A study of Selected Hotels of Delhi (NCR)

This study explored the impact of online distribution systems (ODS) on the revenue of selected hotels in Delhi (NCR). Data were collected from 112 hotel managers representing 56 star-rated hotels in the region. A survey questionnaire assessed various attributes of ODS and their effect on hotel revenue. After conducting exploratory factor analysis (EFA), nine underlying factors were identified. A multiple regression analysis was then performed to determine the impact of these factors on hotel revenue. The results indicated that five out of the nine factors, namely user-friendliness, ease of access, time-saving efficiency, payment security, and discounts/offers, were found to significantly impact hotel revenue. These findings provide valuable insights for hotel management and the ODS industry, emphasizing the importance of specific attributes in driving revenue growth. Hotel managers can use this information to enhance their online distribution strategies and potentially increase revenue and guest satisfaction.
Assessment of a Coordinated Arrangement of Wearable Physiological Sensors for Stress Checking in Work Spaces by Utilizing Organic Markers

The objectives of this investigation were to create and evaluate a wearable physiological sensor system for detecting human stress using ECG, EDA, and EEG data, as well as to see if the changes in physiological indicators were correlated levels. The main elements of the study are listed below. This study included 15 healthy volunteers with an average age of 40.8 years, comprising seven men and six women. They underwent the well-known Maastricht Intense Stress Test, a procedure that is known to cause significant physical and psychological stress, while wearing three commercial sensors have been employed to keep track of their physiologic responses.Throughout salivary samples were taken at various points. The use of a Salivary concentrations of cortisol were correlated with the obtained physiological indicators using an algorithm called the Support Vector Machine (SVM) segmentation technique were both part of the statistical analysis. A significant ability to discriminate between stress and relaxation was shown by fifteen features obtained from measurements including heart rate variability, electro dermal activity, and electroencephalography signals. Based on these important features, the classification system produced results with an accuracy rate of 86% that was satisfactory.Furthermore, the correlation analysis revealed, with an R-squared value of 0.714, a considerable consistency between changes in physiological characteristics and the trends in salivary cortisol levels. The study successfully showed that the wearable sensor system's implementation caught human stress levels and measured the state of stress with accuracy. The design of adaptable and controllable systems, such as medical devices, targeted at inducing interventions to stop stress-related effects, is particularly affected by these findings.
Analisis Dinamik Model SIRC pada Transmisi Hepatitis B dengan Sirosis Hati

Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver that can cause liver cirrhosis. Liver cirrhosis can occur due to the formation of scar tissue in individuals who have prolonged hepatitis B. Transmission of hepatitis B can occur in two ways, namely horizontal and vertical. In this research, this problem is modeled in a mathematical model using the SIRC model, where the population is grouped into four sub-populations, namely susceptible (S), infected (I), cured or immune due to vaccination (R) and cirrhosis. liver (C). From the analysis, two equilibrium points were obtained, namely the disease-free equilibrium point the endemic equilibrium point The basic reproduction number is obtained using the Next Generation Matrix. The analysis results show that if , then the disease-free equilibrium point is locally asymptotically stable, which means that hepatitis B transmission in liver cirrhosis does not spread. Meanwhile, if , then the disease-free equilibrium point is locally asymptotically stable, which means that hepatitis B transmission in liver cirrhosis does not spread. Meanwhile, if , this means that hepatitis B transmission in liver cirrhosis is influenced by contact between susceptible and infectious individuals. To support the results of the analytical analysis, numerical simulations are provided to describe the behavior of the SIRC model.