Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Nrf2 Related Immune Response to Tumor Development in Mice

NRF2 has gained great attention in recent years due to its role in tumor initiation and development. NRF2 is a transcription factor that regulates more than 500 genes to protect cells from oxidative damage. Nrf2 was shown to protect against tumor initiation; however, its activation at the intermediate and the late stage of tumors has been found to support tumor growth and metastasis. This dual role depends on its activation in different cells at different stages of tumor development. This mini review discusses the activation of Nrf2 in normal, tumor and immune cells during tumor initiation and development. The focus of this mini review is on the interaction between immune cells and cancer cells through Nrf2 activation and how this might contribute to tumor initiation and metastasis. This review brings attention to several important pathways that should be considered when using NRF2 as a therapeutic target in cancer.
Monitoring COVID-19 Impacts on Households in Ethiopia, Report No. 5: Gendered Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Ethiopia - Results from a High-Frequency Phone Survey of Households

The COVID-19 pandemic and its economic and social effects on households have created an urgent need for timely data to help monitor and mitigate the social and economic impacts of the crisis and protect the welfare of the least well-off in Ethiopian society. To monitor how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting Ethiopia’s economy and people and to inform interventions and policy responses, the World Bank designed and conducted its High-Frequency Phone Survey of Households (HFPS-HH). This document provides information on the survey methodology such as sampling, questionnaire design, and weighting.
Natural graphite sheet heat sinks for power electronics

In this thesis, a multi-disciplinary investigation of using natural graphite sheet (NGS) for heat sink applications is presented with focus on thermal performance, electromagnetic performance, reliability, cost, energy efficiency, and environmental impact. NGS heat sinks are a promising alternative for weight-sensitive applications in which the heat sink is protected by a case. Contrary to the conventional metals, NGS is also predicted to be feasible at high temperatures or in corrosive environments. To provide the basis for the heat sink design, the thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, electrical conductivity, thermal emissivity, coefficient of thermal expansion, and compression behavior are measured and reported in an easy-to-use form. It is shown experimentally that the the thermal contact resistance at metal-NGS interfaces is comparable to metal-metal ones with thermal interface materials, and that the poor through–plane thermal conductivity can be mitigated by embedding heat pipes in NGS heat sinks. The conducted common-mode electromagnetic emissions cannot be reduced by using NGS heat sinks, but potential to reduce the radiated emission by 12 to 97 % was identified. Complex implications on reliability arising from replacing conventional metal heat sinks with NGS ones are discussed. The cost of NGS heat sinks produced in high volumes is predicted to be a double that of mass-produced conventional aluminum ones. The environmental impact of production, manufacturing, and end-of-life management of NGS is reviewed and compared to the conventional heat sink materials. A case-specific approach to evaluating the feasibility of using NGS heat sinks is recommended and the major steps are outlined. The technology is considered to be ready for a transfer to the industrial research and development stage. An audiovisual summary of the work is available at https://www.youtube. com/playlist? list=PLaX55SIXaD20NQQ2JLP-7abmET7l-6LS4.
Occurrence of Aflatoxins in Maize and Maize Products from Selected Locations of Tanzania and the Effects of Cooking Preparation Processes on Toxin Levels

The production and storage of food crops in different countries is affected by aflatoxins contamination, which are known to be carcinogenic and mutagenic to human beings and domestic animals. This study investigated on the occurrence of aflatoxins in maize products and the effects of cooking preparation processes on their concentrations. The maize samples were collected from fields, farmers' stores and markets of selected locations in Tanzania (i.e., Kongwa and Njombe districts). Extracted samples were analyzed for aflatoxins using high performance liquid chromatography. The concentrations of aflatoxins in maize and maize products ranged from below detection limit to 9.99 ± 1.43 µg/kg and 9.99 ± 0.14 µg/kg for Njombe and Uwemba wards, respectively. Whereas those collected from Kibaigwa ward in Kongwa district ranged from 2.87 ± 0.02 µg/kg to 10.26 ± 0.46 µg/kg. The levels in cooked maize products were lower than the uncooked maize products. The mean concentrations of total aflatoxins in cooked maize products were 0.45 ± 0.05 µg/kg for stiff porridge prepared from dehulled maize flour, 1.39 ± 0.02 µg/kg for stiff porridge prepared from undehulled maize flour, and 0.584 ± 0.06 µg/kg for maize meal (kande). Generally, the levels of aflatoxins were below the maximum acceptable limits set by WHO except for some samples from Kibaigwa market which were slightly above the set limits.
A method of defining the auto-ignition quality of gasoline-like fuels in HCCI engines

Auto-ignition of fuel mixtures was investigated both theoretically and experimentally to gain further understanding of the fuel chemistry. A homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engine was run under different operating conditions with fuels of different RON and MON and different chemistries. Fuels considered were primary reference fuels and toluene/n-heptane blends. The experiments were modeled with a single-zone adiabatic model together with detailed chemical kinetic models. In the model validation, co-oxidation reactions between the individual fuel components were found to be important in order to predict HCCI experiments, shock-tube ignition delay time data, and ignition delay times in rapid compression machines. The kinetic models with added co-oxidation reactions further predicted that an n-heptane/toluene fuel with the same RON as the corresponding primary reference fuel had higher resistance to auto-ignition in HCCI combustion for lower intake temperatures and higher intake pressures. However, for higher intake temperatures and lower intake pressures the n-heptane/toluene fuel and the PRF fuel had similar combustion phasing.
Analysis of root traits of watermelon under phosphate fertilization using minirhizotrons

The objective of the present study was to assess the effects of phosphate fertilization management on root traits of irrigated watermelon crop by minirhizotron observation. The experiment was conducted in an area with acrisol soil in Mossoro-RN using a completely randomized block design with six replicates corresponding to the assessment times. The evaluated parameters were four doses of P (34, 80, 137, and 206 kg ha −1 de P 2 O 5 ) and two methods of fertilization: basal fertilization (F0) and basal + top-dressing fertilization (F1). Triple superphosphate was used for basal fertilization and monoammonium phosphate was used for top-dressing (34 kg ha −1 of P 2 O 5 ). In addition, two control treatments were included: one without the use of P (C1) and another with only top-dressed P at a dose of 103 kg ha −1 of P 2 O 5 (C2). A portable root scanner was used to collect images through 0.6-m clear tubes (minirhizotrons). The root mean diameter decreased with increasing doses of phosphate in F0; however, fine roots were observed in C2. There was a positive effect of P doses on the number of roots only in F0. In the absence of P, the reduction in the number of roots was greater than the reduction in total length.
Neural Modeling of the Distribution of Protein, Water and Gluten in Wheat Grains during Storage

An important requirement in the grain industry is to obtain fast information on the quality of purchased and stored grain. Therefore, it is of great importance to search for innovative solutions aimed at the monitoring and fast assessment of quality parameters of stored wheat The results of the evaluation of total protein, water and gluten content by means of near infrared spectrometry are presented in the paper. Multiple linear regression analysis (MLR) and neural modeling were used to analyze the obtained results. The results obtained show no significant changes in total protein (13.13 ± 0.15), water (10.63 ± 0.16) or gluten (30.56 ± 0.54) content during storage. On the basis of the collected data, a model artificial neural network (ANN) MLP 52-6-3 was created, which, with the use of four independent features, allows us to determine changes in the content of water, protein and gluten in stored wheat. The chosen network returned good error values: learning, below 0.001; testing, 0.015; and validation, 0.008. The obtained results and their interpretation are an important element in the warehouse industry. The information obtained in this way about the state of the quality of stored grain will allow for a fast reaction in case of the threat of lowering the quality parameters of the stored grain.
GENERISANJE SLIKA SA VIŠE OZNAČENIH MNIST CIFARA UPOTREBOM GENERATIVNIH NEURONSKIH MREŽA

Za treniranje generativne neuronske mreže za generisanje slike već postoje ustaljeni šabloni i principi, ali trenutna istraživanja bave se pre svega generisanjem slike sa jednim objektom. Generisanje slike sa više željenih objekata koji se nalaze na određenim pozicijama, i koji su u koheziji sa pozadinom, značajno bi proširilo primenu ovakvih modela. U ovom radu predstavljena je arhitektura modela za generisanje slike sa više označenih cifara na jednostavnoj pozadini. Kao ulaz modela prosleđuju se labele i granični okviri cifara koje je potrebno iscrtati. Istrenirani model uspešno generiše slike sa redosledima cifara koje je video tokom treniranja, a u slučaju novih redosleda ne generiše uvek očekivane cifre. Predloženi su koraci za poboljšanje i dalji razvoj arhitekture.
A Miniaturized and High Frequency Response 35GHz FMCW Radar for Short Range Target Detections

A miniaturized and high frequency response 35 GHz frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar system is presented for short range target detections. The system mainly consists of two antennas, a single chip transceiver and a signal processor. Thanks to our design and integrated techniques, high performance of the system is achieved and also verified by experimental results using our fabricated prototype. Our results show that the detection accuracy of 0.2m can be achieved for 15cm *15cm metal targets within detection distance of 12m, along with the radar system total size of 29mm in diameter, which agrees well with our design.
Estimations of the Optical Equivalence Theorem for Opto-Mechanical Systems for Investigation in General Relativity and High-Energy Physics

The optical equivalence principle is analyzed according to the possibility of describing unbounded states, and the suitable approximations are calculated for highly energetic phenomena. Among these possibilities, the relevance for laser fields, interferometers, and optomehcanical systems are implemented. Their suitableness for research in General Relativity, Cosmology, and High-Energy Physics are outlined.
The role of inoculum identity for growth, photosynthesis, and chlorophyll fluorescence of zinnia plants by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi under varying water regimes

This experiment aimed to determine effects of three arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), i.e., Rhizophagus irregularis, Rhizophagus intraradices, and Funneliformis mosseae, either singly or their mix inoculation on dry mass, photosynthesis, chlorophyll (Chl) fluorescence, leaf pigment contents, and water-use efficiency (WUE) in Zinnia elegans (var. Magellan Red) plants under different water regimes (WR). The greenhouse experiment was performed under a complete randomized design at four different WR [100% of field capacity (FC) as control, 80, 60, and 40% FC]. Our results suggested that arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis protected zinnia plants against WR through improving gas-exchange capacity, higher Chl and carotenoid concentrations, Chl fluorescence, and WUE. Regardless of WR, comparison of colonization percentage demonstrated that the highest colonization was recorded for mixed AMF, while mixed inoculation was not so effective for the growth promotion as the corresponding single inoculation.
Quality No-tillage System: The Importance of the Use of Cover Species in Reducing Compaction and Soil and Water Losses Due to Erosion

Water and soil losses due to surface runoff depend on rainfall intensity and periods, vegetation cover, slope, and ramp length, in addition to conservation practices. The implementation of a quality planting system for the effective control of erosion while avoiding the disintegration of the soil structure by the direct impact of dropping is of paramount importance. Nevertheless, the current no-tillage system has led to the emergence of compacted layers in the soil, which reduce water infiltration, favoring surface runoff. Thus, it is necessary to optimize the use of soil cover species, aiming at reducing compaction and, subsequently, losses of water and soil that flow superficially. The purpose of this study is to highlight the importance of using a quality management system to reduce soil and water losses due to erosion caused by compaction. Furthermore, it is hoped that the study may contribute to the guidance of the best use and management of the soil for farmers.
Making predictive modelling ART: accurate, reliable, and transparent

Models are increasingly being used for prediction in ecological research. The ability to generate accurate and robust predictions is necessary to help respond to ecosystem change and to further scientific research. Successful predictive models are typically accurate, reliable, and transparent regarding their assumptions and expectations, indicating high predictive capacity, robustness, and clarity in their objectives and standards. Research on improving these properties is becoming more common, but often individual research projects are focused on a single aspect of the modelling process and are typically disseminated only within the field where the research originated. The goal of this review is to synthesize research from various disciplines and topics to provide a coherent framework for developing efficient predictive models. Our framework summarizes the process of creating predictive models into three main stages: (1) Framing the Question; (2) Model-Building and Testing; and (3) Uncertainty Evaluation with proposed strategies associated with each stage to help produce more successful predictive models. The key strategies identified within our framework form specific guidelines, providing a new perspective to help researchers make predictive modelling more accurate, reliable, and transparent.
Elman Recurrent Neural Networks Based Direct Inverse Control for Quadrotor Attitude and Altitude Control

The controller system for quadrotor is a challenging research topic due to various application purposes. The usually used controller for quadrotor is developed based on a PID method due to its low cost, simple structure and easy to design with an acceptable error. However, determining precisely the PID’s parameters is very difficult, especially when the characteristics of the plant are highly nonlinear, underactuated and cross-coupling. In this paper, a neural networks-based controller system through Elman recurrent learning mechanism is then proposed. Using a real-time flight dataset from the quadrotor, neural networks based direct inverse control scheme of attitude and altitude control system is constructed and tested through simulation. Experimental results show that the Elman neural networks-based controller system works within very low MSSE when it is used to follow the reference flight testing dataset. Experiments also confirmed that the Elman recurrent neural network shows better performance characteristics compared with that of the Backpropagation neural network.
Cytokines in Scar Glial Formation after an Acute and Chronic Spinal Cord Injury

The inflammatory response after a spinal cord injury (SCI) is a secondary mechanism of damage, this involves alterations at the local and systemic level, and it is mediated by cytokine participation that takes part actively. The excessive inflammatory response causes an autoreactive response that targets against components of the nervous tissue; this response lengthens the inflammatory process initiated during the acute phase. The participation of immune cells in acute phases is characterized by the arrival of neutrophils, macrophages, and microglia, as well as T lymphocytes, which express their peaks on different days post-injury (1st, 3rd, and 11th respectively). The chronic phase of the injury begins 14 days after it occurred, reaching its highest point at 60 days, and can still be detected the following 180 days. One of the outcomes of the inflammatory process and cytokine synthesis is the generation of glial scar. In this chapter, we will review the different cytokine mechanisms involved in the formation of glial scar in acute and chronic phases, as well as the modulating treatments of glial scar.
Social Determinants of Discrimination and Access to Health Care Among Transgender Women in Oregon

Purpose: Transgender women in the United States experience health disparities and limited access to gender-affirming health services. This study describes the social determinants of health that shape access to health services for transgender women in Oregon, a state with a high tally of gender-affirming policies. Methods: We conducted qualitative interviews with 25 transgender women between 18 and 39 years of age. Interviews explored the social, economic, cultural, and legal factors that shape access to health. A Qualtrics survey captured sociodemographic characteristics. We identified facilitators and barriers to accessing gender-affirming services using thematic analysis of qualitative data. Results: Our participants perceived gender-affirming health services in Oregon to be relatively trans-friendly, compared to other parts of the United States. This perception drew several transgender women in our sample to migrate to Oregon from other “more conservative” states. Facilitators included ease with legal name change (60% had completed), inclusiveness of hormone therapy in the Oregon Health Plan, and availability of informed consent hormone therapy. However, for our participants, economic and social discrimination were major limiting factors to accessing and navigating health services. Social factors exacerbated difficulties navigating and understanding health systems to achieve coverage; 20% had insurance that did not cover hormone therapy. Specialized surgeons were located in urban/suburban centers; electrolysis coverage was limited; and 10% had gender-affirming surgery. Conclusion: This study indicates that services are necessary to assist with navigating access to gender-affirming health care, even in affirming policy contexts like Oregon.
Nutritional Composition, Phenolic Compounds Extraction and Antioxidant Activities of Wild Plants: A Review

Wild plants are considered good nutritional sources, extensively used in some communities that inherit food patterns dependent on the wild plants, particularly during scarcity and famine. These plants contain many phenolic compounds and natural antioxidants, which play an important role in human health, for example preventing cancer and cardiovascular diseases, and lowering the incidence of different diseases. In this review, tries to take a different perspective on the nutritional composition of wild plants, and their phenolic compounds, along with a basic mechanism for the extraction of bioactive compounds from wild plants by using the traditional and novel extraction methods known as green technologies for the environment, as well as their economic and health benefits for human health.
Everywhere you look, everywhere you go, there’s an estuary invaded by the red seaweed Gracilaria vermiculophylla (Ohmi) Papenfuss, 1967

Gracilaria vermiculophylla (Ohmi) Papenfuss, 1967 is a red alga native to the northwest Pacific, but over the last 100 years, this ecosystem engineer has invaded estuaries throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Despite previous studies documenting populations in estuarine habitats in British Columbia, California, and Baja California, our knowledge of its distribution along the North American Pacific is incomplete. In 2017, we surveyed 61 sites from Chusini Cove (Prince of Wales Island, Alaska) to Bayside Park (San Diego Bay, California), spanning more than 23o of latitude. We documented 33 new sites where G. vermiculophylla is currently found, but may have been previously overlooked, or not recognized. Many of these locations were areas of intensive shellfish aquaculture, particularly oysters, and are also important flyover stops for migrating birds, possibly contributing to the spread of this seaweed. Our study fills in the significant gaps in the distribution of G. vermiculophylla in North America, and, as such, will be an important contribution to future studies on the ecological and evolutionary consequences of this widespread marine invasion along this coastline.
Analysis of the Relationship between Nutritional Influence with the Obesity Phenomenon among Primary School Students in Banda Aceh, Aceh Province, Indonesia

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of obesity in children has reached the limit of the pandemic number. Obesity has become a major public health problem in Indonesia due to increasing prevalence. Aceh Province has a prevalence of obesity in children 6–14 years at 5.9% in 2013 and increased to 9.5% in 2017. AIM: Analyzing the effect of fiber intake, snack foods, breakfast, and sedentary on the incidence of obesity in elementary schoolchildren in the city of Banda Aceh. METHODS: This research used case–control design. Determination of the sample was done by probability sampling with cluster sampling technique. Study sample was of 84 children. Data collection was done by interviewing the parents, observation using questionnaires. Data analysis was carried out bivariate and using Chi-square statistical tests. RESULTS: School food intake from daily snacks (p = 0.001, odds ratio [OR] = 5) and fiber consumption (p = 0.017, OR = 3.3) was related to the incidence of obesity in elementary schoolchildren in Banda Aceh (p < 0.05). Sedentary behavior was associated with the incidence of obesity in primary schoolchildren (p = 0.002, OR = 4.6). Breakfast is not related to the occurrence of obesity in primary schoolchildren in the city of Banda Aceh. CONCLUSION: There was a significant influence between intake from daily snack foods, fiber consumption, and sedentary on the incidence of obesity in primary schoolchildren in the Banda Aceh City area.
General Expressions for Performance Evaluation of Binary Adders

The paper presents generic expressions to estimate the utilization of resources such as gate counts, area, energy dissipation and worst-case delay of eight kinds of traditional binary adders of n-bits in length without designing their actual circuits. The results obtained using proposed expressions are validated against the results obtained from the actual adder circuits and the results are in agreement. The performance of different adders is finally compared by using proposed expressions. The comparison results show that the delay of Ripple Carry Adder (48 gate level delays for n=24) is highest, while parallel prefix adders (PPAs) only require 14 to 18 gate level delays. For PPAs, Kogge-Stone adder requires the highest number of gates and area (388.96 μm2). Meanwhile, the area (216.73 μm2) and energy dissipation (1.6E-14 J) for Brent-Kung adder are lower than other PPAs.