Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomic Analysis of the Pistacia vera (L.) Fruits Enable the Identification of Genes and Hormone-Related Gene Linked to Inflorescence Bud Abscission

Pistacia vera (L.) is an alternate bearing species. The tree produces axillary inflorescence buds every year. Still, they abscise in “ON” overloaded shoots, causing a limited production in the following “OFF” year, causing a significant and unfavorable production fluctuation. In this work, we carried out de novo discovery and transcriptomic analysis in fruits of “ON” and “OFF” shoots of the cultivar Bianca. We also investigated whether the fruit signaling pathway and hormone biosynthesis directly or indirectly linked to the premature fall of the inflorescence buds causing alternate bearing. We identified 1536 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in fruits of “ON” vs. “OFF” shoots, which are involved primarily in sugar metabolism, plant hormone pathways and transcription factors. The premature bud abscission linked to the phenomenon is attributable to a lack of nutrients (primarily sugar) and the possible competition between the same branches’ sinks (fruits vs. inflorescence buds). Hormone pathways are involved as a response to signals degradation and remobilization of carbon and nutrients due to the strengthening of the developing embryos. Genes of the secondary metabolism and transcription factors are also involved in tailoring the individual branches response to the nutritional stress and sink competition. Crosstalk among sugar and various hormone-related genes, e.g., ethylene, auxin, ABA and cytokinin, were determined. The discovery of putative biomarkers like callose synthase 5, trehalose-6-phosphate synthase, NAD(P)-linked oxidoreductase and MIOX2, Jasmonate, and salicylic acid-related genes can help to design precision farming practices to mitigate the alternate bearing phenomenon to increase farming profitability. The aim of the analysis is to provide insight into the gene expression profiling of the fate of “ON” and “OFF” fruits associated with the alternate bearing in the pistachio.
THE ENHANCEMENT OF STUDENT LEARNING THROUGH ENGAGEMENT AND FEEDBACK IN THE ASSESSMENT PROCESS

The Dublin Institute of Technology is one of the largest multi-level higher education providers in Ireland, catering for over 22000 students annually. Under the 1999 Qualifications (Education and Training) Act, DIT became an awarding body in its own right. Programme provision covers apprenticeships, short continuous professional development courses, taught undergraduate and postgraduate, research MPhil and PhDs. The Institute's traditional mission has always been focused on learning and teaching in the field of advanced technical vocational education and training (TVET), and one of its current agendas is to foster and encourage changes in teaching practice and methodology in order to enhance a student centred learning approach. This paper reviews a pilot project undertaken regarding this agenda by lecturers of Carpentry and Joinery apprentices. Over the past few years, it appeared that the students were showing less of an interest in their practical jobs in class, as they did not relate the learning to actual work in industry. When it came to exam time their lack of interest in class throughout the term meant they quite often rushed through their exams, mistakes were made and students engaged in unsafe practices. As such the students' final exam mark wasn't necessarily a fair reflection of their ability. Against this background it was decided that something should be done to revitalise student interest in the work they were doing and also to try and assess a student's real capability or standard level. The method that was decided upon to achieve this was a form of continuous assessment whereby students were encouraged to correct their own work. By doing this it gave them a chance to reflect on the jobs they had just completed and also allowed them to focus in on areas in which they felt they needed to improve. It also gave the lecturers the opportunity to give formative feedback to the students by checking their work and the marks that they awarded themselves to see that they were a fair reflection of each other. The research demonstrates that this form of proactive teaching can help foster a learning environment whereby the student feels they have some form of direct control and as such take on a more active role in their education. Acknowledgements-We would like to thank staff and colleagues in the Timber Trades Section of the school of Construction, as without their assistance this research wouldn't be possible. We would also like to acknowledge the Learning, Teaching and Technology Centre, DIT, and management in the School of Construction for their continued support in our research work.
Whole-Genome Sequencing Reveals Recent Transmission of Multidrug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis CAS1-Kili Strains in Lusaka, Zambia

Globally, tuberculosis (TB) is a major cause of death due to antimicrobial resistance. Mycobacterium tuberculosis CAS1-Kili strains that belong to lineage 3 (Central Asian Strain, CAS) were previously implicated in the spread of multidrug-resistant (MDR)-TB in Lusaka, Zambia. Thus, we investigated recent transmission of those strains by whole-genome sequencing (WGS) with Illumina MiSeq platform. Twelve MDR CAS1-Kili isolates clustered by traditional methods (MIRU-VNTR and spoligotyping) were used. A total of 92% (11/12) of isolates belonged to a cluster (≤12 SNPs) while 50% (6/12) were involved in recent transmission events, as they differed by ≤5 SNPs. All the isolates had KatG Ser315Thr (isoniazid resistance), EmbB Met306 substitutions (ethambutol resistance) and several kinds of rpoB mutations (rifampicin resistance). WGS also revealed compensatory mutations including a novel deletion in embA regulatory region (−35A > del). Several strains shared the same combinations of drug-resistance-associated mutations indicating transmission of MDR strains. Zambian strains belonged to the same clade as Tanzanian, Malawian and European strains, although most of those were pan-drug-susceptible. Hence, complimentary use of WGS to traditional epidemiological methods provides an in-depth insight on transmission and drug resistance patterns which can guide targeted control measures to stop the spread of MDR-TB.
Impact Analysis of Owner-Directed Acceleration

The purpose of owner‐directed acceleration is to reach a certain milestone, maybe the completion of the project, before a certain deadline. What activities have to be accelerated and what the terms of payment to the contractor will be is the subject of this paper. If acceleration is ordered in the remaining portion of a project that has been delayed by owner‐ and contractor‐caused events, the apportioning of extra acceleration costs between the parties is not simple. The various alternatives that are available for resolving this problem are reviewed in this paper, and a method is proposed to reach a fair and reasonable solution. The method is based on the premise that acceleration of the remaining portion of a project is typically ordered to compensate for the delays that occurred in the completed portion of the project and that acceleration conducted in the most economical way should follow accountability lines chronologically defined in previous delay impact analysis. This way, any replanning to suit th.
Mayors’ attention to metropolitan policy: exploring communication and engagement patterns in Rockford, Illinois

ABSTRACT Mayors are important intergovernmental actors. Understanding how they conceptualize their roles in intergovernmental relations can help us better understand metropolitan governance. Network institutionalism and institutional role theory frame this investigation of how mayors discuss their metropolitan policy engagement in the Rockford, Illinois, USA Metropolitan Statistical Area. Through an exploratory case study of this mid-sized American metropolitan region, including in-depth interviews, social network analysis, and review of media coverage, embeddedness in metropolitan-wide policy dialogue is contrasted with clique-based interactions that advance policy goals for smaller groups of local governments in the region. Differentiating how mayors participate in metropolitan intergovernmental relations aids in a refined theoretical understanding of polycentric metropolitan governance while also highlighting practical challenges for political leaders in metropolitan collective action.
Identification of a de novo ANK1 Variant in a Patient with Hereditary Spherocytosis on Multi-gene Panel Testing

and 1 in Koreans [1]. HS is caused by defects in red blood cell (RBC) membrane components, such as α -spectrin, β -spectrin, ankyrin, band 3, and protein 4.2, which are encoded by SPTA1, SPTB, ANK1, SLC4A1, and EPB42 , respectively [2]. Spherocytosis, type 1 (OMIM #182900) caused by ankyrin defects is most common in Korea and is mostly inherited in an autosomal-domi-nant manner Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is caused by defects in red blood cell membrane components encoded by SPTA1, SPTB, ANK1, SLC4A1, and EPB42. The low sensitivity and specificity of conventional tests such as peripheral blood smear and osmotic fragility test (OFT) limit the diagnosis of HS, especially in patients with mild phenotypes and no family history of the condition. Mutations in ANK1, which encodes ankyrin-1 protein, are present in more than half of HS cases and is known as the most common cause of HS in Korea. Mutations in ANK1 are mostly inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Here, we report the case of a Korean patient with HS carrying a de novo mutation in ANK1. The patient was suspected of having HS due to neonatal jaundice and clinical manifestations of hemolysis, but the OFT results were unclear. At the age of 20, the patient was definitive-ly diagnosed with HS, caused by a de novo heterozygous ANK1 variant c.856C > T (p.Arg286*), using next-generation sequencing-based multi-gene panel testing and Sanger sequencing analysis.
Eigenstructure methods for direction finding with sensor gain and phase uncertainties

An eigenstructure-based method for direction finding in the presence of sensor gain and phase uncertainties is presented. The method provides estimates of the Directions of Arrival (DOA) of all the radiating sources as well as calibration of the gain and phase of each sensor in the observing array. The technique is not limited to a specific array configuration and can be implemented in a'ny eigenstructure-based DOA system to improve its performance.
Dynamic Detection of Reinforced Concrete Bridge Damage by Finite Element Model Updating

The present work consists of dynamic detection of damages in reinforced concrete bridges by using a MMUM (mathematical model updating method) from incomplete test data. A well suited finite element model of a repaired bridge is carried out. The diagnosis enables us to locate and detect the damage in a reinforced concrete bridge. Thus, developments of analytical predictions have been checked by modal testing techniques. Besides, the FTCS (finite time centered space) scheme is developed to solve the set of equations which can easily handle finite element matrices of a bridge model. It is shown in this study that the method is applied to detect damages as well as existing cracks in real time of a repaired bridge. To check the efficiency of the method, the repaired bridge of OuedOumazer in Algeria has been selected. It is proven that identification methods have been able to detect the exact location of damage areas to be corrected avoiding the inaccuracy from the finite element model for the mass, stiffness and loading.
TETRA radio in monitoring and control of secondary substations

Traditionally, proprietary communication solutions, specially tailored for SCADA applications, have been used for the communication between the network control center (NCC) and remote terminal units (RTUs) of distribution automation systems. However, due to the emerging development of open digital radio transmission protocols it may be possible to change the communication towards open solutions. This paper describes a pilot system where TETRA Short Data Service (SDS) has been used for data transmission between a NCC of Helsinki Energy and four 0.4 kV secondary substations. Main emphasize is put to the evaluation of the applicability of SDS for this particular data transmission purpose, measuring the performance of the TETRA system and developing the data structures of transmitted data blocks.
New Approach for the Development of Vehicle Target Sounds

Today, vehicle interior noise is an essential evaluation criterion for drivers. The task of acoustic engineers used to consist of identifying and eliminating disturbing noise components of vehicle noise; in other words, of carrying out troubleshooting. However, this reactive procedure is not sufficient anymore to meet the customers’ demands and to remain competitive. In fact, vehicle sound must be deliberately designed, which means that in order to create driving pleasure certain noise aspects have to be emphasized and others must be reduced. In this respect, the acoustic engineer’s task is extended to design-engineering and to the exploration of preferred sounds which lead to the customers’ contentment. Furthermore, sound simulation of new engines or even whole vehicle models at early stages of the development phase becomes more and more important. For example, different engine mounts are built virtually in and their effects on the interior sound can be examined without expensive iteration loops on the basis of physical prototypes. This paper presents new opportunities with respect to procedures and tools for sound design and target sound development. Particularly, a new subject-centered method - Explorative Vehicle Evaluation (EVE) - for the determination of target sounds is introduced.
From Cancer Patient to Provider: An Autobiographical Case Report

Testicular cancer is considered to be the model for the curable neoplasm, with outcomes improving from nearly universal fatality to nearly universal cure in the matter of two decades, driven largely in part by the accidental discovery and application of platinum chemotherapy. Such a diagnosis and treatment can have significant and long-lasting effects on patients, although with every such experience come learning opportunities. This autobiographical case report describes the author’s experience being diagnosed with testicular cancer, the challenges faced during treatment and survivorship, the lessons learned being a patient, and the way they guided him on his path to his current role as an adolescent and young adult (AYA) oncologist.
An examination of key aerodynamic modelling issues raised by the NREL blind comparison

This paper describes some recent work undertaken in the aftermath of the 'blind comparison' with the NREL Unsteady Aerodynamics Experimental data collected in the NASA Ames wind tunnel. The data set collected in the NASA Ames tunnel represents a unique opportunity for aerodynamic modelers to enhance the capability of prediction schemes by comparison with 'clean' aerodynamic data. In this paper, the sensitivity of the results predicted by the Glasgow University prescribed wake model (HAWTDAWG) to a range of parameters including the blade section aerodynamic data is examined with reference to the measured data. In addition, specific modeling considerations highlighted by the measured data set are also discussed.
Numerical and Experimental Investigation of the Performance of Dynamic Wing for Augmenting Ship Propulsion in Head and Quartering Seas

Flapping-foil thrusters arranged at the bow of the ship are examined for the exploitation of energy from wave motions by direct conversion to useful propulsive power, offering at the same time dynamic stability and reduction of added wave resistance. In the present work, the system consisting of the ship and an actively controlled wing located in front of its bow is examined in irregular waves. Frequency-domain seakeeping analysis is used for the estimation of ship-foil responses and compared against experimental measurements of a ferry model in head waves tested at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) towing tank. Next, to exploit the information concerning the responses from the verified seakeeping model, a detailed time-domain analysis of the loads acting on the foil, both in head and quartering seas, is presented, as obtained by means of a cost-effective time-domain boundary element method (BEM) solver validated by a higher fidelity RANSE finite volume solver. The results demonstrate the good performance of the examined system and will further support the development of the system at a larger model scale and the optimal design at full scale for specific ship types.
Positive impact of a telemedicine education program on practicing health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario, Canada: A mixed methods study of an Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) program

Introduction In addition to shifting and expanding clinical responsibilities, rapidly evolving information and guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult for health care workers (HCW) to synthesise and translate COVID-19 information into practice. This study evaluated whether a COVID-19-specific telemedicine education program (ECHO COVID) would impact health care workers’ self-efficacy and satisfaction in the management of patients with COVID-19. Methods A prospective mixed methods parallel-design study was conducted among ECHO COVID participants using pre-post questionnaires and a focus group discussion. Questionnaire results were examined for changes in health care workers’ self-efficacy and satisfaction. Focus group discussion data were analysed to explore health care workers’ experience in ECHO COVID and the context of their practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results 239 health care workers registered in ECHO COVID and 114 (47.7%) completed questionnaires and attended at least one ECHO COVID session. Median self-efficacy scores increased from 5 (IQR 4–6) to 6 (IQR 6–6) (p < 0.0001), independent of profession, years in practice, age group, or practice environment. Participants were highly satisfied with ECHO COVID sessions with a median score of 4 (IQR 4–5). Focus group discussion data indicated that health care workers gained knowledge through ECHO COVID and revealed facilitators for ECHO COVID program success, including the transition to virtual care, the practicability of knowledge provided, and a ‘perspective from the trenches. ’ Discussion This study demonstrated that a telemedicine education program aimed to support health care workers in managing patients with COVID-19 had a positive impact on health care workers’ self-efficacy and satisfaction. This impact was specifically mediated by the ECHO COVID program.
Saracatinib, a Src Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, as a Disease Modifier in the Rat DFP Model: Sex Differences, Neurobehavior, Gliosis, Neurodegeneration, and Nitro-Oxidative Stress

Diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP), an organophosphate nerve agent (OPNA), exposure causes status epilepticus (SE) and epileptogenesis. In this study, we tested the protective effects of saracatinib (AZD0530), a Src kinase inhibitor, in mixed-sex or male-only Sprague Dawley rats exposed to 4–5 mg/kg DFP followed by 2 mg/kg atropine and 25 mg/kg 2-pralidoxime. Midazolam (3 mg/kg) was given to the mixed-sex cohort (1 h post-DFP) and male-only cohort (~30 min post-DFP). Saracatinib (20 mg/kg, oral, daily for 7 days) or vehicle was given two hours later and euthanized eight days or ten weeks post-DFP. Brain immunohistochemistry (IHC) showed increased microgliosis, astrogliosis, and neurodegeneration in DFP-treated animals. In the 10-week post-DFP male-only group, there were no significant differences between groups in the novel object recognition, Morris water maze, rotarod, or forced swim test. Brain IHC revealed significant mitigation by saracatinib in contrast to vehicle-treated DFP animals in microgliosis, astrogliosis, neurodegeneration, and nitro-oxidative stressors, such as inducible nitric oxide synthase, GP91phox, and 3-Nitrotyrosine. These findings suggest the protective effects of saracatinib on brain pathology seem to depend on the initial SE severity. Further studies on dose optimization, including extended treatment regimen depending on the SE severity, are required to determine its disease-modifying potential in OPNA models.
Response to Reviews 12 / 10 / 2021

Suggestions for technical corrections or reasons for rejection I believe it is important to document satellite retrieval products so that the user can cite the product as well as understand it. This paper documents the NOAA STAR GOES ABI TOA SW flux product. The methodology section reads more like an ATBD, there are many tables on how the LUT parameters were binned. There is no science reasoning on why the algorithm was built the way it was. It simply jumps straight into the atmospheric profiles, aerosol inputs, etc., used in the radiative transfer model. For an algorithm paper, I expect that the validation to be based on the product data and I am unsure if the product exists. In this case, ABI channel data is utilized and processed through the algorithm. The authors should be using the official CERES SSF L2 product not the CERES FLASHFlux L2 product for validation. The FLASHFlux product was designed for real-time processing, where many inputs were replaced with real-time datasets, such as FPIT rather than GEOS.5. 4.1 atmospheric profile data. Also, the FLASHFlux fluxes are not properly calibrated. Lastly the validation is based on a single swath of Terra and Aqua CERES fluxes. At least 4 seasonal months should be compared. I am also taken back, that by changing the surface type classification over Mexico the TOA SW flux can differ by 250 Wm-2, which is very large. CERES would help resolve these issues, but this case was not compared with CERES data. Unless I did not properly perceive the objectives of the paper, the paper is insufficient and incomplete to properly document the NOAA STAR GOES ABI TOA SW flux product and should be resubmitted.
EFFECT OF PLYOMETRIC EXERCISES ON PHYSICAL FITNESS AND PERFORMANCE AMONG ELITE SPRINTERS

Sprinting is running over a short distance with fastest possible speed. To achieve fastest speed over a short distance sprinter needs appropriate body shape, muscle strength, leg strength and fine-tuned nervous system to pull the whole thing together. Therefore, the objective of present study was to see the effect of plyometric exercises on physical fitness and sprinting performance among elite athletes. Forty elite male athletes, aged 16-18 years were selected as sample for this experimental study. All the selected subjects wererandomly assigned into experimental group (n=20) and control group (n=20). Both experimental and control group were assessed on the first day and after six weeks of the interventions for leg muscle power, abdominal muscles strength, flexibility, anaerobic capacity, 100 M run and 200 M run by administering standard tests.The subjects of experimental group then underwent a training of plyometric exercises, for 30 minutes in the evening, for a total period of six weeks. The control group did not undergo any special training during this period.Data was analyzed using paired ‘t’ tests, independent ‘t’ test and descriptive statistical method.The result of within group comparison showed significant improvement in physical fitness and performance variables (p<0.001) after six weeks of plyometric exercise training. Whereas control group showed significant improvement in flexibility, anaerobic capacity and 200 M sprint performance (P<0.01). However, no significant change was seen in leg muscles power, abdominal muscles strength and 100 M sprint after controlled period of six weeks. Further, between group comparison revealed significant change in leg muscle power, anaerobic capacity, 100 M and 200 M sprint performance (P<0.001). The findings of this study conclude thatthat six week of plyometric exercise training program may lead to improvement in physical fitness and performance among elite sprinters.