Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Above and belowground traits impacting transpiration decline during soil drying in 48 maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes.

BACKGROUND AND AIM Stomatal regulation allows plants to promptly respond to water stress. However, our understanding of the impact of above and belowground hydraulic traits on stomatal regulation remains incomplete. The objective of this study was to investigate how key plant hydraulic traits impact transpiration of maize during soil drying. We hypothesize that stomatal response to soil drying is related to a loss in soil hydraulic conductivity at the root-soil interface, which in turn depends on plant hydraulic traits. METHODS We investigate the response of 48 contrasting maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes to soil drying, utilizing a novel phenotyping facility. In this context, we measure the relationship between leaf water potential, soil water potential, soil water content and transpiration, as well as root, rhizosphere and aboveground plant traits. KEY RESULTS Genotypes differed in their responsiveness to soil drying. The critical soil water potential at which plants started decreasing transpiration was related to a combination of above- and belowground traits: genotypes with a higher maximum transpiration and plant hydraulic conductance as well as a smaller root and rhizosphere system closed stomata at less negative soil water potentials. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate the importance of belowground hydraulics for stomatal regulation and hence drought responsiveness during soil drying. Furthermore, this finding supports the hypothesis that stomata start to close when soil hydraulic conductivity drops at the root-soil interface.
Massage of Bladder Meridian Relieved Anxiety Induced by Chronic Stress in Rats

The aim of this paper was to explore the mechanism of bladder meridian massage (BMM) on anxiety in rats with chronic stress. Chronic stress induced rats to establish rat anxiety model. The sugar water preference (SPF), tail suspension time (TST), and forced swimming time (FST) of rats were measured. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and inflammatory cytokines in serum and hippocampus of rats were detected. Brain neurotransmitters (dopamine (DA), 5- hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), and norepinephrine (NE)) were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Immunohistochemistry and western blotting were used to detect autophagy protein expression in hippocampus of rats. BMM significantly increased SPF, decreased TST and FST, increased SOD level in serum and hippocampus, and decreased MDA level and cytokine level. BMM reversed the changes of neurotransmitters. At the same time, BMM significantly decreased autophagy protein expression in hippocampus of rats. The above results show that BMM significantly relieve anxiety induced by chronic stress in rats.
Fuzzy-Based Life-Cycle Cost Model for Decision Making under Subjectivity

AbstractDecision support models are needed to facilitate long-term planning and priority setting among competing alternatives. Life-cycle cost is the most frequently used economic model that considers all cost elements and related factors throughout the service life of the alternatives being considered. These cost elements and related factors are usually associated with uncertainty and subjectivity. As such, it is important to model the uncertainty arising from the assumed data over the service life of competing alternatives. Probabilistic techniques, such as Monte Carlo simulation, are commonly used to deal with such uncertainty or vagueness. However, they have been criticized for their complexity and amount of data required. This paper presents a fuzzy-based life-cycle cost model that accounts for uncertainty in a manner that disadvantages commonly encountered in probabilistic models are alleviated. The developed model utilized fuzzy set theory and interval mathematics to model vague, imprecise, qualita.
Finite element modeling of torsional wave modes along pipes with absorbing materials

This paper describes the implementation of equations of dynamic equilibrium in a finite element (FE) code for modeling, in axisymmetry, the propagation of torsional wave modes along metallic pipes coupled to solid elements. Materials constituting either pipes and/or surrounding elements can be absorbing media, the absorption being caused by either their viscoelasticity or scattering on their internal structure (or both). Complex moduli are used as input data to equations of dynamic equilibrium, which are solved in the frequency domain rather than in the temporal domain. Their real and imaginary parts represent material elasticity and damping, respectively. A new definition of efficient and easy-to-implement absorbing regions that suppress undesired reflections from boundaries is proposed. The resolution of equations in the frequency domain, together with the use of absorbing regions, lead to significant reductions in the number of mesh elements and also in the number of iterations required for describing .
Cladding modes of optical fibers: properties and applications

One of the new methods of fiber optics uses cladding modes for controlling propagation of radiation in optical fibers. This paper reviews the results of studies on the propagation, excitation, and interaction of cladding modes in optical fibers. The resonance between core and cladding modes excited by means of fiber Bragg gratings, including tilted ones, is analyzed. Propagation of cladding modes in microstructured fibers is considered. The most frequently used method of exciting cladding modes is described, based on the application of long-period fiber gratings. Examples are presented of long-period gratings used as sensors and gain equalizers for fiber amplifiers, as well as devices for coupling light into and out of optical fibers.
Therapeutic potential of curcumin in ARDS and COVID‐19

Curcumin is a safe, non‐toxic, readily available and naturally occurring compound, an active constituent of Curcuma longa (turmeric). Curcumin could potentially treat diseases, but faces poor physicochemical and pharmacological characteristics. To overcome these limitations, we developed a stable, water‐soluble formulation of curcumin called cyclodextrin‐complexed curcumin (CDC). We have previously shown that direct delivery of CDC to the lung following lipopolysaccharides exposure reduces acute lung injury (ALI) and effectively reduces lung injury, inflammation and mortality in mice following Klebsiella pneumoniae. Recently, we found that administration of CDC led to a significant reduction in angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 expression in gene and protein levels following pneumonia, indicating its potential in treating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). In this review, we consider the clinical features of ALI and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and the role of curcumin in modulating the pathogenesis of bacterial/viral‐induced ARDS and COVID‐19.
Psoriatic Arthritis: Differential Features at the Time of Clinical Presentation in a Large Cohort of Patients with Polyarthralgia

Objective: Most patients with psoriatic arthritis begin with cutaneous psoriasis, which is why all early detection strategies are based on screening in the dermatological consultation and referral to a rheumatologist. However, there are cases of patients who consult initially for musculoskeletal symptoms, mostly joint pain, regardless of family and/or personal history of psoriasis. This study aimed to estimate the frequency of psoriatic arthritis in a cohort of patients who consulted for polyarthralgia and to determine the differential features, at the time of clinical presentation, in relation to both patients with final diagnosis other than psoriatic arthritis and patients with diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Methods: Consecutive patients with polyarthralgia (including arthralgia of the hands) were included. Clinical examination, laboratory tests, ultrasound with power Doppler of both hands, and radiography of both hands and feet were performed at baseline. All patients were followed up and the definitive diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis was established. Results: A total of 1055 were included, 88 (8.3%) ended with diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis. Diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis was positively associated with a family history of psoriasis (odds ratio = 4.14), psoriasis (odds ratio = 78.94), radiographic erosions (odds ratio = 5.74), and ultrasound with at least 1 joint with positive power Doppler (odds ratio = 7.11). In comparison with rheumatoid arthritis patients, diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis was positively associated with psoriasis (odds ratio = 433.42) and family history of psoriasis (odds ratio = 41.63). On the other hand, it was negatively associated with positivity, for both rheumatoid factor (odds ratio = 0.03) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (odds ratio = 0.06). Conclusion: The frequency of psoriatic arthritis was 8.3% and was associated with a personal and/or family history of psoriasis, radiographic erosions, and inflammatory involvement by Power Doppler Ultrasound (PDUS). In comparison with rheumatoid arthritis patients, psoriatic arthritis was associated with a personal and/or family history of psoriasis, while the presence of both rheumatoid factor and/or anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies was shown to be a protective factor for the diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis.
Bone Formation on Murine Cranial Bone by Injectable Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid Containing Nano-Hydroxyapatite and Bone Morphogenetic Protein

New injection-type bone-forming materials are desired in dental implantology. In this study, we added nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) to cross-linkable thiol-modified hyaluronic acid (tHyA) and evaluated its usefulness as an osteoinductive injectable material using an animal model. The sol (ux-tHyA) was changed to a gel (x-tHyA) by mixing with a cross-linker. We prepared two sol–gel (SG) material series, that is, x-tHyA + BMP with and without nHAp (SG I) and x-tHyA + nHAp with and without BMP (SG II). SG I materials in the sol stage were injected into the cranial subcutaneous connective tissues of mice, followed by in vivo gelation, while SG II materials gelled in Teflon rings were surgically placed directly on the cranial bones of rats. The animals were sacrificed 8 weeks after implantation, followed by X-ray analysis and histological examination. The results revealed that bone formation occurred at a high rate (>70%), mainly as ectopic bone in the SG I tests in mouse cranial connective tissues, and largely as bone augmentation in rat cranial bones in the SG II experiments when x-tHyA contained both nHAp and BMP. The prepared x-tHyA + nHAp + BMP SG material can be used as an injection-type osteoinductive bone-forming material. Sub-periosteum injection was expected.
Real-World Patterns and Decision Drivers of Radiotherapy for Lung Cancer Patients in Romania: RADIO-NET Study Results

Radiotherapy (RT) plays a crucial role in all stages of lung cancer. Data on recent real-world RT patterns and main drivers of RT decisions in lung cancer in Romania is scarce; we aimed to address these knowledge gaps through this physician-led medical chart review in 16 RT centers across the country. Consecutive patients with lung cancer receiving RT as part of their disease management between May–October 2019 (pre-COVID-19 pandemic) were included. Descriptive statistics were generated for all variables. This cohort included 422 patients: median age 63 years, males 76%, stages I–II 6%, III 43%, IV 50%, mostly adeno- and squamous cell carcinoma (76%), ECOG 0-1 50% at the time of RT. Curative intent RT was used in 36% of cases, palliative RT in 64%. Delays were reported in 13% of patients, mostly due to machine breakdown (67%). Most acute reported RT toxicity was esophagitis (19%). Multiple disease-, patient-, physician- and context-related drivers counted in the decision-making process. This is the first detailed analysis of RT use in lung cancer in Romania. Palliative RT still dominates the landscape. Earlier diagnosis, coordinated multidisciplinary strategies, and the true impact of the multimodal treatments on survival are strongly needed to improve lung cancer outcomes.
Stability β-carotene encapsulated in plant-based emulsions: impact of nanocrystalline cellulose concentration

β- carotene has low stability thereby it must be incorporated into food product especially by emulsions system to encapsulate β- carotene. The influence of nanocrystalline cellulose ( NCC ) concentrations on stability of 10 % of oil - in - water ( O / W ) emulsions containing β- carotene using tween 20 as an emulsifier was examined . The concentrations of NCC were varied at 0 . 05, 0 . 10, and 0 . 20% (w/w) . There was a decrease in particle size ( d 43 ) with increasing NCC concentration caused by rod like shape by native NCC . Addition NCC increased viscosity and ζ -potential thereby decreasing rate of creaming index by increasing NCC concentrations. Addition NCC decreased the value of L * due to the white and turbid colour from native NCC but the differences between the emulsions containing NCC and control was not noticeable by visual observation. The stability of β- carotene increased with increasing NCC concentrations . It can be indicated, NCC can be used as natural stabilizer to increase emulsion and  -carotene stability especially at 0.20% (w/w) NCC . This experiment provides useful information for further applications especially CDS for bioactive compound .
Relationship between Knowledge Level and Attitude about Personal Protective Equipment, Years of Service, Length of Work with the Incidence of ARI in East Jakarta Traffic Police

This study discusses the relationship between the level of knowledge and attitudes about personal protective equipment, years of service, and length of work with the incidence of Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI) in traffic police in East Jakarta. This study used a questionnaire with a cross-sectional method with a total sample of 54 people. The results showed that there were 32 (59.3%) cases of ARI, and the most influential factor in a row was the lack of knowledge about Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as many as 21 respondents (84.0%), negative attitudes towards the use of equipment. Personal protective equipment as many as 21 respondents (84.0%), long working period (≥ 5 years) 26 respondents (83.9%), length of service 26 respondents (92.9%). Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that the level of knowledge and attitudes about personal protective equipment, years of service, and length of work affect the incidence of ARI.
Adherence challenges with daily oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis during pregnancy and the postpartum period in South African women: a cohort study

Daily oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can reduce HIV acquisition. However, prevention effectiveness requires daily adherence prior to and during periods of sexual activity. Little is known about pharmacologic measures of PrEP adherence during pregnancy and postpartum and the factors related to optimal adherence during periods of sexual activity in this population.
Discovery of novel thyrointegrin αvβ3 antagonist fb-PMT (NP751) in the management of human glioblastoma multiforme

Abstract Background Thyrointegrin αvβ3 receptors are unique molecular cancer therapeutic targets because of their overexpression on cancer and rapidly dividing blood vessel cells compared and quiescent on normal cells. A macromolecule, TriAzole Tetraiodothyroacetic acid (TAT) conjugated to polyethylene glycol with a lipophilic 4-fluorobenyl group (fb-PMT and NP751), interacts with high affinity (0.21 nM) and specificity with the thyrointegrin αvβ3 receptors on the cell surface without nuclear translocation in contrast to the non-polymer conjugated TAT. Methods The following in vitro assays were carried out to evaluate NP751 including binding affinity to different integrins, transthyretin (TTR)-binding affinity, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cell adhesion, proliferation assays, nuclear translocations, chorioallantoic membrane model of angiogenesis, and microarray for molecular mechanisms. Additionally, in vivo studies were carried out to evaluate the anticancer efficacy of NP751, its biodistribution, and brain GBM tumor versus plasma levels kinetics. Results NP751 demonstrated a broad spectrum of antiangiogenesis and anticancer efficacy in experimental models of angiogenesis and xenografts of human GBM cells. Tumor growth and cancer cells’ viability were markedly decreased (by > 90%; P < .001) in fb-PMT-treated U87-luc or 3 different primary human GBM xenograft-bearing mice based on tumor in vivo imaging system (IVIS) imaging and histopathological examination, without relapse upon treatment discontinuation. Additionally, it effectively transports across the blood-brain barrier via its high-affinity binding to plasma TTR with high retention in brain tumors. NP751-induced effects on gene expression support the model of molecular interference at multiple key pathways essential for GBM tumor progression and vascularization. Conclusions fb-PMT is a potent thyrointegrin αvβ3 antagonist with potential impact on GBM tumor progression.
Inhalable microparticles as drug delivery systems to the lungs in a dry powder formulations

Abstract Inhalation-administrated drugs remain an interesting possibility of addressing pulmonary diseases. Direct drug delivery to the lungs allows one to obtain high concentration in the site of action with limited systemic distribution, leading to a more effective therapy with reduced required doses and side effects. On the other hand, there are several difficulties in obtaining a formulation that would meet all the criteria related to physicochemical, aerodynamic and biological properties, which is the reason why only very few of the investigated systems can reach the clinical trial phase and proceed to everyday use as a result. Therefore, we focused on powders consisting of polysaccharides, lipids, proteins or natural and synthetic polymers in the form of microparticles that are delivered by inhalation to the lungs as drug carriers. We summarized the most common trends in research today to provide the best dry powders in the right fraction for inhalation that would be able to release the drug before being removed by natural mechanisms. This review article addresses the most common manufacturing methods with novel modifications, pros and cons of different materials, drug loading capacities with release profiles, and biological properties such as cytocompatibility, bactericidal or anticancer properties.
Cosmological N-body simulations of galaxy merging

We report here on a series of N-body experiments designed to simulate galaxy merging in a cosmological setting and test the hypothesis that bright elliptical galaxies are merger remnants. In the simulations, merging occurs hierarchically and mainly from marginally bound two-body orbits of low angular momentum. This results in a radius-mass relation of the form r/sub h/proportionalm/sup 0.85/ and a low value lambdaapprox. =0.07 for the characteristic spin of merger remnants. The fraction of remnants is higher in groups than it is in the field, and their mass function progressively flattens as the result of a runaway effect. The number and distribution of merger remnants, however, depend somewhat on the initial conditions. Large-scale clustering is not affected by merging, but small-scale clustering depends sensitively on the merging process. In particular, groups are often dominated by a few massive members, but their growth is expected to depend on the nature of an inferred dark component of clustered material. The results agree qualitatively and, in some cases, quantitatively with a large body of observational material on the structure and clustering properties of bright elliptical galaxies. Although the simulations are idealized in several respects and cover a limited range of initial conditions, theymore » do support the idea that many bright elliptical galaxies are merger remnants. « less
Transition of equilibrium stochastic to unidirectional velocity vectors in a nanowire subjected to a towering electric field

The equilibrium Fermi–Dirac distribution is revealed to transform to an asymmetric distribution in a very high electric field where the energy gained (or lost) in a mean free path is of paramount importance. The equilibrium stochastic velocity vectors randomly oriented in and opposite to the quasifree direction of a nanowire are shown to streamline in the presence of an extremely high electric field. The complete velocity-field characteristics are acquired. The ultimate directed drift velocity in a towering field is shown to be limited to the appropriately averaged Fermi velocity in the strongly degenerate limit where only half of the quantum states are accessible to electrons. This unidirectional velocity does not sensitively depend on the low-field Ohmic mobility. The emission of a quantum in the form of a phonon or photon lowers the saturation velocity from its ultimate unidirectional limit.
A Novel Countermeasure Method for Radar Coherent Jamming Based on Signal Feature Transformation

With the advancement of active jamming technology, a variety of new types of coherent jamming based on digital radio frequency memory (DFRM) have been proposed and implemented in practice, posing serious threats to modern radar systems due to their flexibility, suppression, and deception characteristics. Hence, the research on relevant countermeasures is necessary and challenging. In this paper, we take a fresh look at the problem and present a method for removing interference from received time-frequency overlapping signals based on signal feature modification (SFT). The antijamming problem is transformed into one linear underdetermined blind source separation (UBSS) model in a dual-channel receiving scenario using sparse component analysis, and the feasible solution is found by transforming the observed signal features to a new time-frequency domain representation. Simulations demonstrate that the developed technique outperforms standard interference countermeasures in terms of signal-to-interference ratio (SIR) and target identification performance, which are critical for antijamming.
Spatial and temporal variability of SWIR air glow measurements

It is well known that luminance from photo-chemical reactions of hydroxyl ions in the upper atmosphere (~85 km altitude) produces a significant amount of night time radiation in the short wave infra-red (SWIR) band between 0.9 and 1.7 μm wave length. This phenomenon, often referred to as airglow, has been demonstrated as an effective illumination source for passive low light level night time imaging applications. It addition it has been shown that observation of the spatial and temporal variations of the illumination can be used to characterize atmospheric tidal wave actions in the airglow region. These spatio-temporal variations manifest themselves as traveling wave patterns whose period and velocity are related to the wind velocity at 85 km as well as the turbulence induced by atmospheric vertical instabilities. In this paper we present nearly a year of airglow observations over the whole sky, showing long term and short term fluctuations to characterize SWIR night time image system performance.