Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Empowering Propaganda Detection in Resource-Restraint Languages: A Transformer-Based Framework for Classifying Hindi News Articles

Misinformation, fake news, and various propaganda techniques are increasingly used in digital media. It becomes challenging to uncover propaganda as it works with the systematic goal of influencing other individuals for the determined ends. While significant research has been reported on propaganda identification and classification in resource-rich languages such as English, much less effort has been made in resource-deprived languages like Hindi. The spread of propaganda in the Hindi news media has induced our attempt to devise an approach for the propaganda categorization of Hindi news articles. The unavailability of the necessary language tools makes propaganda classification in Hindi more challenging. This study proposes the effective use of deep learning and transformer-based approaches for Hindi computational propaganda classification. To address the lack of pretrained word embeddings in Hindi, Hindi Word2vec embeddings were created using the H-Prop-News corpus for feature extraction. Subsequently, three deep learning models, i.e., CNN (convolutional neural network), LSTM (long short-term memory), Bi-LSTM (bidirectional long short-term memory); and four transformer-based models, i.e., multi-lingual BERT, Distil-BERT, Hindi-BERT, and Hindi-TPU-Electra, were experimented with. The experimental outcomes indicate that the multi-lingual BERT and Hindi-BERT models provide the best performance, with the highest F1 score of 84% on the test data. These results strongly support the efficacy of the proposed solution and indicate its appropriateness for propaganda classification.
Land cover effects on runoff patterns in eastern Piedmont (USA) watersheds

Physiography and land cover determine the hydrologic response of watersheds to climatic events. However, vast differences in climate regimes and variation of landscape attributes among watersheds (including size) have prevented the establishment of general relationships between land cover and runoff patterns across broad scales. This paper addresses these difficulties by using power spectral analysis to characterize area‐normalized runoff patterns and then compare these patterns with landscape features among watersheds within the same physiographic region. We assembled long‐term precipitation and runoff data for 87 watersheds (first to seventh order) within the eastern Piedmont (USA) that contained a wide variety of land cover types, collected environmental data for each watershed, and compared the datasets using a variety of statistical measures. The effect of land cover on runoff patterns was confirmed. Urban‐dominated watersheds were flashier and had less hydrologic memory compared with forest‐dominated watersheds, whereas watersheds with high wetland coverage had greater hydrologic memory. We also detected a 10–15% urban threshold above which urban coverage became the dominant control on runoff patterns. When spectral properties of runoff were compared across stream orders, a threshold after the third order was detected at which watershed processes became dominant over precipitation regime in determining runoff patterns. Finally, we present a matrix that characterizes the hydrologic signatures of rivers based on precipitation versus landscape effects and low‐frequency versus high‐frequency events. The concepts and methods presented can be generally applied to all river systems to characterize multiscale patterns of watershed runoff. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Properties and Applications of Self-Healing Polymeric Materials: A Review

Self-healing polymeric materials, engineered to autonomously self-restore damages from external stimuli, are at the forefront of sustainable materials research. Their ability to maintain product quality and functionality and prolong product life plays a crucial role in mitigating the environmental burden of plastic waste. Historically, initial research on the development of self-healing materials has focused on extrinsic self-healing systems characterized by the integration of embedded healing agents. These studies have primarily focused on optimizing the release of healing agents and ensuring rapid self-healing capabilities. In contrast, recent advancements have shifted the focus towards intrinsic self-healing systems that utilize their inherent reactivity and interactions within the matrix. These systems offer the advantage of repeated self-healing over the same damaged zone, which is attributed to reversible chemical reactions and supramolecular interactions. This review offers a comprehensive perspective on extrinsic and intrinsic self-healing approaches and elucidates their unique properties and characteristics. Furthermore, various self-healing mechanisms are surveyed, and insights from cutting-edge studies are integrated.
Paleomagnetic Survey in Arizona and Utah: Preliminary Results

Measurements of the remanent magnetization of sediments from the Colorado Plateau, ranging in age from the Algonkian to the Cretaceous, are reported. In some cases the stability of the magnetizations is clear, but in other cases instability is present to a degree for which corrections can be made. The original magnetizations are presumed to have been along the geomagnetic field at the time of deposition. Thus the position of the mean magnetic pole for five epochs is determined and compared with the pole positions calculated on the basis of measurements of strata in Great Britain. The agreement is sufficiently close to give strong support to the hypothesis of polar wandering.
High‐frequency precursors to P wave arrivals in New Zealand: Implications for slab structure

This report revisits the very early high-frequency slab phases from earthquakes in the Kermadec slab (between −25°S and −37°S) that arrive as a precursor to the P wave onset at stations in New Zealand. The analysis of short-period digital records for station SNZO (South Karori New Zealand) for the time period between 1980 and 1986 involved 4 times as many data as in previous studies. We confirm most of the earlier observations, in particular the relationship between source region and observed waveform. Numerical waveform modeling using two-dimensional slab models confirm that the high-frequency precursor can be explained by P wave propagation in a thin (8–10 km) high-velocity layer (HVL). The sensitivity of the high-frequency phase to source position in the slab is investigated, and we demonstrate that the slab phase does not survive interruptions or strong lateral variations of the HVL. Assuming the shape of the slab from tomographic images and continuity of the HVL, we infer that the large negative travel time residuals can be explained if P wave propagation is 4 to 5% faster than in the ambient mantle for depths to 300 km and about 2% faster for depths between 300 and 600 km. Rather than resorting to regional differences in structure and composition of the HVL, we argue that specific source-receiver configurations and the shape of the slab explain the observed regional variation in the character of the high-frequency slab phases.
A mechanism-based pathway toward administering highly active N-phage cocktails

Bacteriophage (phage) therapy is being explored as a possible response to the antimicrobial resistance public health emergency. Administering a mixture of different phage types as a cocktail is one proposed strategy for therapeutic applications, but the optimal method for formulating phage cocktails remains a major challenge. Each phage strain has complex pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) properties which depend on the nano-scale size, target-mediated, self-dosing nature of each phage strain, and rapid selection of resistant subpopulations. The objective of this study was to explore the pharmacodynamics (PD) of three unique and clinically relevant anti-Pseudomonas phages after simulation of dynamic dosing strategies. The Hollow Fiber Infection Model (HFIM) is an in vitro system that mimics in vivo pharmacokinetics (PK) with high fidelity, providing an opportunity to quantify phage and bacteria concentration profiles over clinical time scales with rich sampling. Exogenous monotherapy-bolus (producing max concentrations of Cmax = 7 log10 PFU/mL) regimens of phages LUZ19, PYO2, and E215 produced Pseudomonas aeruginosa nadirs of 0, 2.14, or 2.99 log10 CFU/mL after 6 h of treatment, respectively. Exogenous combination therapy bolus regimens (LUZ19 + PYO2 or LUZ19 + E215) resulted in bacterial reduction to <2 log10 CFU/mL. In contrast, monotherapy as a continuous infusion (producing a steady-state concentration of Css,avg = 2 log10PFU/mL) was less effective at reducing bacterial densities. Specifically, PYO2 failed to reduce bacterial density. Next, a mechanism-based mathematical model was developed to describe phage pharmacodynamics, phage–phage competition, and phage-dependent adaptive phage resistance. Monte Carlo simulations supported bolus dose regimens, predicting lower bacterial counts with bolus dosing as compared to prolonged phage infusions. Together, in vitro and in silico evaluation of the time course of phage pharmacodynamics will better guide optimal patterns of administration of individual phages as a cocktail.
Some Structural Elements of Bacterial Protein MF3 That Influence Its Ability to Induce Plant Resistance to Fungi, Viruses, and Other Plant Pathogens

The ability of the MF3 protein from Pseudomonas fluorescens to protect plants by inducing their resistance to pathogenic fungi, bacteria, and viruses is well confirmed both in greenhouses and in the field; however, the molecular basis of this phenomenon remains unexplored. To find a relationship between the primary (and spatial) structure of the protein and its target activity, we analyzed the inducing activity of a set of mutants generated by alanine scanning and an alpha-helix deletion (ahD) in the part of the MF3 molecule previously identified by our group as a 29-amino-acid peptide working as the inducer on its own. Testing the mutants’ inducing activity using the “tobacco–tobacco mosaic virus” pathosystem revealed that some of them showed an almost threefold (V60A and V62A) or twofold (G51A, L58A, ahD) reduction in inducing activity compared to the wild-type MF3 type. Interestingly, these mutations demonstrated close proximity in the homology model, probably contributing to MF3 reception in a host plant.
A Deconstruction of Strategic Linguistic Elements Used to Invoke Gender and Power During Debate in Busia County Assembly, Kenya

This study set out to establish manner in which linguistic elements are used to invoke gender and subsequently bargain for power during County Assembly debates. The objective of this study is to analyze the effects of linguistic elements employed to bargain for the dynamics of power and invoke gender during debate. The study employed the Critical Discourse Analysis theory (CDA). Current literature has been reviewed for the purpose of identifying areas that have been studied and the gaps existing with the intent of filling them up. The study involved collecting linguistic data from the assembly as recorded in the Hansard and audio recordings of assembly proceedings. The data has been analyzed according to the objective, been described and relationships -between speakers, choice of discourse and discourse function have been explained. The study targeted a population of 53 Members of the County Assembly from Busia. Linguistic techniques that refer to gender have been discussed and their effect on listeners and subsequent speakers analyzed. Conclusions have been drawn and recommendations made. On the whole, there is a harmonious and healthy linguistic relationship in the county assembly. However, more elected women would bolster their agenda and increase their participation towards the move to achieving gender parity in terms of representation.
Leptin Induces MMP-1 Expression Through the RhoA/ERK1/2/NF-κB Axis in Human Intervertebral Disc Cartilage Endplate-Derived Stem Cells

Purpose Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration, associated with aging, may cause low back pain and disability, with obesity as a significant risk factor. In a prior study, we found a positive correlation between IVD degeneration and levels of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and leptin. Yet, the interaction between MMP-1 and leptin in IVD degeneration is unclear. Our research seeks to explore leptin’s influence on MMP-1 expression and the underlying mechanisms in human intervertebral disc cartilage endplate-derived stem cells, specifically SV40 cells. Methods The mRNA and protein expression in leptin-stimulated SV40 cells were assessed using RT-real-time PCR and Western blotting or ELISA, respectively. We examined leptin-mediated RhoA activation through a GTP-bound RhoA pull-down assay. Furthermore, the phosphorylation levels of mitogen-activated protein kinases and AKT in leptin-stimulated SV40 cells were analyzed using Western blotting. The activation of NF-κB by leptin was investigated by assessing phosphorylation of IKKα/β, IκBα, and NF-κB p65, along with the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65. To understand the underlying mechanism behind leptin-mediated MMP-1 expression, we employed specific inhibitors. Results Leptin triggered the mRNA and protein expression of MMP-1 in SV40 cells. In-depth mechanistic investigations uncovered that leptin heightened RhoA activity, promoted ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and increased NF-κB activity. However, leptin did not induce phosphorylation of JNK1/2, p38, or AKT. When we inhibited RhoA, ERK1/2, and NF-κB, it resulted in a decrease in MMP-1 expression. Conversely, inhibition of reactive oxygen species and NADPH oxidase did not yield the same outcome. Additionally, inhibiting RhoA or ERK1/2 led to a reduction in leptin-induced NF-κB activation. Moreover, inhibiting RhoA also decreased leptin-mediated ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Conclusion These results indicated that leptin induced MMP-1 expression in SV40 cells through the RhoA/ERK1/2/NF-κB axis. This study provided the pathogenic role of leptin and suggested the potential therapeutic target for IVD degeneration.
COMPARACION DE LA COMPOSICION Y RIQUEZA DE ESPECIES DE ESCARABAJOS COPROFAGOS (COLEOPTERA: SCARABAEIDAE) EN REMANENTES DE BOSQUE DE LA ORINOQUIA COLOMBIANA

En este estudio se presentan los resultados de la comparación de la composición y riqueza de especies de escarabajos coprófagos en dos tipos de remanentes con formas diferentes pero igual tamaño, un corredor de bosque vs. tres parches aislados en una zona de la Orinoquia Colombiana. En total se capturaron 32 especies y 14 géneros, de las cuales 30 se capturaron en corredor y 29 en parches. No se observó diferencia significativa en los valores de riqueza o de diversidad para los dos tipos de remanentes (H'corredor=2.302, H'parches=2.531) aunque los valores encontrados son bajos para la región de la Orinoquia. Los valores de equitabilidad son altos para los dos remanentes lo que indica una distribución relativamente homogénea de la abundancia, que se ajusta a la curva lognormal para esta comunidad de escarabajos. Así mismo los valores de similitud son altos (Morisita-Horn = 0.877) con un 87.5% de las especies compartidas entre los dos tipos de remanentes. Es posible que para esta región sea más importante el tamaño que la forma del remanente, y que la composición de especies que aún se encuentra en estas manchas de bosque sea igual para las dos áreas comparadas al ser especies con amplios rangos fisiológicos de tolerancia frente a los efectos de la fragmentación.
COMENTARIO EDITORIAL MORBIMORTALIDAD CARDIOVASCULAR EN EL MUNDO CARDIOVASCULAR MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY IN THE WORLD

Según la Federación Mundial del Corazón, las enfermedades cardiovasculares causan 17,5 millones de muertes al año, tantas como el resultado de sumar las provocadas por SIDA, tuberculosis, malaria, diabetes, cáncer y patologías respiratorias crónicas. Son, además, la principal causa de muerte en todo el mundo y, frente al cáncer, la relación es hasta de 20 a 1 (por una persona que muere de cualquier tipo de cáncer, fallecen veinte por enfermedades cardiovasculares).
Aplikasi Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) Terhadap Pengguna Layanan Internet Banking di Kota Tangerang

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan Perceived Useflness dan Perceived Ease of Use terhadap tindakan menggunakan internet banking. Kerangka konseptual telah dikembangkan dan mengacu pada teori akseptasi model (TAM). Kuesioner telah dikembangkan dan disebarkan kepada 300 responden yang semuanya adalah pengguna internet banking. Metode penelitian yang digunakan pada survey ini adalah Metode Peneltian Deskriptif Kuantitatif. Kerangka sampling yang digunakan dalam survei ini didistribusikan ke pengguna internet banking. Jadi dalam pengumpulan data primer, peneliti mendistribusikan 300 kuesioner dengan 300 responden. Teknik sampling yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah non probability sampling dengan jenis teknik convinience Sampling. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah dengan menggunakan SEM (Structural Equation Model) dengan program AMOS (Analysis of Moment Structure).
Spring resource phenology and t iming of Songbird Migration across the Gulf of Mexico

Migratory songbirds are advancing their arrival to breeding areas in response to climatic warming at temperate latitudes. Less is understood about the impacts of climate changes outside the breeding period. Every spring, millions of migrat- ing songbirds that overwinter in the Caribbean and Central and South America stop to rest and refuel in the first available habitats after cross - ing the Gulf of Mexico (hereafter, the Gulf). We used capture data from a long- term banding sta- tion (20 years: 1993 to 2012) located on the north- ern coast of the Gulf to assess the passage timing of 17 species making northward migrations into eastern North America. We further assessed spring resource phenology as meas ured by normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) on nonbreed- ing ranges and en route. We tested the hypotheses that spring passage timing has advanced during the past two decades and that annual variability in passage timing into eastern North America is related to spring resource phenology on station- ary nonbreeding ranges and during passage south of the Gulf. Further, we assessed whether annual variability in resource phenology south of the Gulf was a good indicator of the conditions that migrants encountered upon first landfall in east - ern North America. We found no trend in migra- tion timing for species that migrate from South America and annual variability in their passage timing was unrelated to environmental conditions in nonbreeding ranges or en route. Species that migrate from Central America and the Caribbean delayed arrival by 2 to 3 days over the 20-year period and arrived later during years when con- ditions were dryer in nonbreeding ranges and passage areas south of the Gulf. Further, year- to-year variability in spring resource phenology in nonbreeding ranges and passage areas south of the Gulf were not good indicators of resource phenology upon arrival in eastern North America. Therefore, despite the fact that many migrant species have been arriving increasingly earlier to breeding grounds, the passage timing of 17 species into eastern North America has either not changed or is slightly later, due to drying spring conditions in Central America and the Caribbean. Our results suggest that Nearctic- Neotropical migratory birds adjust the rate of migration primarily within east- ern North America and, in light of warmer tem- peratures in the temperate zone and earlier arrival timing to breeding ranges, species that overwin- ter in Central America and the Caribbean may be increasing the speed of migration within eastern North America.
Una aproximació als empadronaments atípics a Catalunya: còmput i distribució territorial d'un fenomen generalitzat

An approximation to the long-term absent de jure population in Catalonia: calculation and geographical distribution of a generalised phenomena The main aim of this article is to yield an approximation of the so-called long-term absent de jure population, those individuals who usually live away from the municipality where they are officially registered as inhabitants, through their enumeration and geographical distribution in 23 Catalan regions. Although the history of censuses and local population registers is also the beginning of the long-term absent de jure population, the fact that people have become more mobile in recent years (which means an increase of geographical mobility), might be contributing to both an increase and a wider geographical spread. Statistical mismatches of daily commuting distances allow, through a process of reliability checking, an estimation of the long-term absent de jure population, thus the people who are most likely to be absent from what is meant to be their usual residence and present as «non residents» (de facto population) in other municipality. Data source used: Estadística de població de 1996.
Leveraging Larger AES Keys in LoRaWAN: A Practical Evaluation of Energy and Time Costs

Internet of Things (IoT) devices increasingly contribute to critical infrastructures, necessitating robust security measures. LoRaWAN, a low-power IoT network, employs the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) with a 128-bit key for encryption and integrity, balancing efficiency and security. As computational capabilities of devices advance and recommendations for stronger encryption, such as AES-256, emerge, the implications of using longer AES keys (192 and 256 bits) on LoRaWAN devices’ energy consumption and processing time become crucial. Despite the significance of the topic, there is a lack of research on the implications of using larger AES keys in real-world LoRaWAN settings. To address this gap, we perform extensive tests in a real-world LoRaWAN environment, modifying the source code of both a LoRaWAN end device and open-source server stack to incorporate larger AES keys. Our results show that, while larger AES keys increase both energy consumption and processing time, these increments are minimal compared to the time on air. Specifically, for the maximum payload size we used, when comparing AES-256 to AES-128, the additional computational time and energy are, respectively, 750 ms and 236 μJ. However, in terms of time on air costs, these increases represent just 0.2% and 0.13%, respectively. Our observations confirm our intuition that the increased costs correlate to the number of rounds of AES computation. Moreover, we formulate a mathematical model to predict the impact of longer AES keys on processing time, which further supports our empirical findings. These results suggest that implementing longer AES keys in LoRaWAN is a practical solution enhancing its security strength while not significantly impacting energy consumption or processing time.