Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Floristic Composition, Diversity and Carbon Stock Along Altitudinal Gradient in Hasantar Community Forest, in Nagarjun Municipality, Kathmandu District

This study has attempted to estimate above and below ground biomass along altitudinal gradient and examined the relation between carbon stock and diversity indices. The study area was categorized into three sections based on the elevation interval of 200m ranging from 1300m to 1900m. Vegetation sampling was performed in 33 circular plots, each of 500m2 and was selected based on systematic random sampling. Phyto-sociological parameters and above and below ground biomass and total carbon stock were calculated for each section of the study area. Carbon stock showed negative and insignificant relation with species evenness (r=-0.24, P= 0.17) and positive but insignificant relation with species richness (r=0.17, p=0.34) and Simpson’s index of dominance (r=0.18, P=0.31). However, humped shaped and statistically insignificant (P=0.93) relationship was observed between Shannon diversity index and carbon stock. This research results provide baseline information for the management of Hasantar community forest.
Sonidegib in Locally Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Monocentric Retrospective Experience and a Review of Published Real-Life Data

Simple Summary Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Some patients may develop locally advanced BCC with significant morbidity and with reduction in life quality. The employment of a Hedgehog inhibitor known as Vismodegib has already proven itself helpful in the management of laBCCs. Sonidegib is the most recently available drug approved for treatment of laBCCs that acts by inhibiting the Hedgehog pathway. Real-life data seem to show that efficacy and safety are similar to those already demonstrated in trials. Herein we report our experience with retrospectively collected data from laBCC patients treated with Sonidegib. Abstract Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) represents the most common skin cancer and locally advanced BCC (laBCC) refers to an aggressive, large, infiltrative BCC that cannot be treated by surgery or radiotherapy. Sonidegib is a Hedghehog inhibitor (HHi) indicated for laBCC. This is a monocentric retrospective real-life study of laBCCs receiving Sonidegib treatment. Although Sonidegib is widely used, since its approval by Food and Drug Administration in 2015, only a limited number of real-life experiences have been reported. Eleven patients, including four patients diagnosed with Basal Cell Naevus syndrome, received treatment with Sonidegib for laBCCs. Seven (63.6%) patients experienced adverse events (AEs) but only three had to discontinue treatment and were therefore excluded from the following results. Four patients (50%) achieved complete clinical remission (CR); in all cases the remission was confirmed by biopsy. Partial response (PR) was found in three patients out of eight (37.5%). One patient out of eight (12.5%) showed a steady disease (SD). None of the patients showed signs of progression during treatment with HHi. Sonidegib showed the same efficacy in treating laBCCs as already seen in trials. All four patients suffering from Basal Cell Naevus syndrome achieved disease control by being treated with Sonidegib. Consequently, we strongly advise the joint management of laBCCs through a multidisciplinary team whenever feasible.
A Review of Evidence for the Involvement of the Circadian Clock Genes into Malignant Transformation of Thyroid Tissue

(1) Background: In 2013, the results of a pioneer study on abnormalities in the levels and circadian rhythmicity of expression of circadian clock genes in cancerous thyroid nodules was published. In the following years, new findings suggesting the involvement of circadian clockwork dysfunction into malignant transformation of thyroid tissue were gradually accumulating. This systematic review provides an update on existing evidence regarding the association of these genes with thyroid tumorigenesis. (2) Methods: Two bibliographic databases (Scopus and PubMed) were searched for articles from inception to 20 March 2023. The reference lists of previously published (nonsystematic) reviews were also hand-searched for additional relevant studies. (3) Results: Nine studies published between 2013 and 2022 were selected. In total, 9 of 12 tested genes were found to be either up- or downregulated. The list of such genes includes all families of core circadian clock genes that are the key components of three transcriptional–translational feedback loops of the circadian clock mechanism (BMAL1, CLOCK, NPAS2, RORα, REV-ERBα, PERs, CRYs, and DECs). (4) Conclusions: Examination of abnormalities in the levels and circadian rhythmicity of expression of circadian clock genes in thyroid tissue can help to reduce the rate of inadequate differential preoperative diagnosis for thyroid carcinoma.
Minimal wave speed of a competition integrodifference system

Abstract In this paper, we study the minimal wave speed of a competitive system. By constructing upper and lower solutions, we confirm the existence of travelling wave solution at the critical wave speed. This completes earlier results found in the literature. Our conclusion implies that the asymptotic decay behaviour of solutions at the critical wave speed is different from that of solutions at larger wave speeds.
Next-Generation Sequencing Technology: Current Trends and Advancements

Simple Summary Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a powerful tool used in genomics research. NGS can sequence millions of DNA fragments at once, providing detailed information about the structure of genomes, genetic variations, gene activity, and changes in gene behavior. Recent advancements have focused on faster and more accurate sequencing, reduced costs, and improved data analysis. These advancements hold great promise for unlocking new insights into genomics and improving our understanding of diseases and personalized healthcare. This review article provides an overview of NGS technology and its impact on various areas of research, such as clinical genomics, cancer, infectious diseases, and the study of the microbiome. Abstract The advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) has brought about a paradigm shift in genomics research, offering unparalleled capabilities for analyzing DNA and RNA molecules in a high-throughput and cost-effective manner. This transformative technology has swiftly propelled genomics advancements across diverse domains. NGS allows for the rapid sequencing of millions of DNA fragments simultaneously, providing comprehensive insights into genome structure, genetic variations, gene expression profiles, and epigenetic modifications. The versatility of NGS platforms has expanded the scope of genomics research, facilitating studies on rare genetic diseases, cancer genomics, microbiome analysis, infectious diseases, and population genetics. Moreover, NGS has enabled the development of targeted therapies, precision medicine approaches, and improved diagnostic methods. This review provides an insightful overview of the current trends and recent advancements in NGS technology, highlighting its potential impact on diverse areas of genomic research. Moreover, the review delves into the challenges encountered and future directions of NGS technology, including endeavors to enhance the accuracy and sensitivity of sequencing data, the development of novel algorithms for data analysis, and the pursuit of more efficient, scalable, and cost-effective solutions that lie ahead.
Theory of direct and indirect effect of two-photon absorption on nonlinear optical losses in high power semiconductor lasers

The effect of the transverse laser structure on two-photon absorption (TPA) related effects in high-power diode lasers is analysed theoretically. The direct effect of TPA is found to depend significantly on the transverse waveguide structure, and predicted to be weaker in broad and asymmetric waveguide designs. The indirect effect of TPA, via carrier generation in the waveguide and free-carrier absorption, is analysed for the case of a symmetric laser waveguide and shown to be strongly dependent on the active layer position. With the active layer near the mode peak, the indirect effect is weaker than the direct effect due to the population of TPA-created carriers being efficiently depleted by their diffusion and capture into the active layer, whereas for the active layer position strongly shifted towards the p-cladding, the indirect effect can become the dominant power limitation at very high currents. It is shown that for optimizing a laser design for pulsed high power operation, both TPA related effects and the inhomogeneous carrier accumulation in the waveguide caused by diffusive current need to be taken into account.
Manoalide Induces Intrinsic Apoptosis by Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Human Osteosarcoma Cells

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone tumor that produces immature osteoid. Metastatic OS has a poor prognosis with a death rate of >70%. Manoalide is a natural sesterterpenoid isolated from marine sponges. It is a phospholipase A2 inhibitor with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-cancer properties. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism and effect of manoalide on OS cells. Our experiments showed that manoalide induced cytotoxicity in 143B and MG63 cells (human osteosarcoma). Treatment with manoalide at concentrations of 10, 20, and 40 µM for 24 and 48 h reduced MG63 cell viability to 45.13–4.40% (p < 0.01). Meanwhile, manoalide caused reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction and disrupted antioxidant proteins, activating the apoptotic proteins caspase-9/-3 and PARP (Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase). Excessive levels of ROS in the mitochondria affected oxidative phosphorylation, ATP generation, and membrane potential (ΔΨm). Additionally, manoalide down-regulated mitochondrial fusion protein and up-regulated mitochondrial fission protein, resulting in mitochondrial fragmentation and impaired function. On the contrary, a pre-treatment with n-acetyl-l-cysteine ameliorated manoalide-induced apoptosis, ROS, and antioxidant proteins in OS cells. Overall, our findings show that manoalide induces oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis, causing the cell death of OS cells, showing potential as an innovative alternative treatment in human OS.
Effects of central administration of the human Tau protein on the Bdnf, Trkb, p75, Mapt, Bax and Bcl-2 genes expression in the mouse brain

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite intensive work by many researchers, the mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease development have not yet been elucidated. Recently, more studies have been directed to the investigation of the processes leading to the formation of neurofibrillary tangles consisting of hyperphosphorylated microtubule-associated Tau proteins. Pathological aggregation of this protein leads to the development of neurodegeneration associated with impaired neurogenesis and apoptosis. In the present study, the effects of central administration of aggregating human Tau protein on the expression of the Bdnf, Ntrk2, Ngfr, Mapt, Bax and Bcl-2 genes in the brain of C57Bl/6J mice were explored. It was found that five days after administration of the protein into the fourth lateral ventricle, significant changes occurred in the expression of the genes involved in apoptosis and neurogenesis regulation, e. g. , a notable decrease in the mRNA level of the gene encoding the most important neurotrophic factor BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) was observed in the frontal cortex which could play an important role in neurodegeneration caused by pathological Tau protein aggregation. Central administration of the Tau protein did not affect the expression of the Ntrk2, Ngfr, Mapt, Bax and Bcl-2 genes in the frontal cortex and hippocampus. Concurrently, a significant decrease in the expression of the Mapt gene encoding endogenous mouse Tau protein was found in the cerebellum. However, no changes in the level or phosphorylation of the endogenous Tau protein were observed. Thus, central administration of aggregating human Tau protein decreases the expression of the Bdnf gene in the frontal cortex and the Mapt gene encoding endogenous mouse Tau protein in the cerebellum of C57Bl/6J mice.
Self-Care of Canadian School Psychology Graduate Students

This study assessed the predictive nature of professional self-care practices on various outcome variables (academic performance, psychological well-being, and affect) and investigated if self-care influenced the relationship between perceived stress and psychological well-being amongst school psychology graduate students across Canada. Participants included 102 Canadian school psychology graduate students (female: 94, male: 8, Mage: 26.9). Results indicated that professional support and life balance self-care practices predicted increased psychological well-being and that life balance predicted positive affect. Additionally, the results indicated that professional self-care practices strengthened the inverse relationship between perceived stress and psychological well-being, suggesting that self-care practices can buffer the negative effects of perceived stress on well-being. These results highlight the important role that professional self-care plays for school psychology trainees and may guide researchers and practitioners on ways to improve self-care intervention practices within professional and training settings.
Multivariate Model on Longitudinal Data Analysis for Hypertension and Heart Failure of Diabetes Patients:A Case of Jimma University Specialized Hospital, Jimma, Ethiopia

: Hypertension and heart failure is a chronic disease which is rapidly growing public health problem worldwide, especially in low and middle income country including Ethiopia. A hospital-based retrospective cohort study conducted on 100 regular follow-up of diabetes patients whose age 18 and above years since September 11, 2018 to October 11, 2021. Multivariate multilevel model were used to identify the risk factors of hypertension and heart failure. In this study out of 861 diabetes patients’, 52.7% lived in rural areas and 57.6% of diabetes patient were male. A 45.8% variation of pulse rate, systolic and diastolic pressure was between patient level and the remaining 54.2% of variation existing within patients. The pulse rate, diastolic and systolic blood pressures were correlated and the data follow multivariate normal distribution with p-value equal to 0.708. Multilevel model of time variant and invariant with random intercept were better ﬁt to the data. In conclusion gender, residence, level of glucose, hypertension status, weight, fasting blood sugar, complication status, and type of complication happening were signiﬁcantly associated with multivariate responses of pulse rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressures at 5% level of signiﬁcance. A particular emphasis should be placed on prevention by introducing
Does Nypa Palm Affect Floristic Composition of the Mangroves of the Wouri Estuary?

- Mangroves are essential ecosystems for the environment and are home to a particular biological diversity. They face many constraints, in particular, that of the invasion of exotic species such as Nypa fruticans. The research aim consisted of the characterization of Nipa palm traits in the Wouri estuary. The study was carried out in five points located in the main and secondary streams of the Wouri River. Floristic statements were inside twenty-five plots of 10 m x 10 m, and structural parameters such as the number of individuals, and DBH, with equidistance of 20m, were installed in five sites. The results showed that Nipa palm has an occurrence of 60 % in the studied sites. The higher density was obtained inAkwa-nord with 1309 individuals.ha -1 . The number of leaves significantly differed between the sampling points (K= 6.91; p= 0.03); Youpwe was the site with the higher number. Stalk width also differed significantly between the sites, from 25.2 cm in Essengue to 47.3 cm in Youpwe. Factor analysis revealed more matures and adults in Youpwe, juvenile plants in Essengue, and seedlings in Akwa-nord. This work showed that Youpwe would represent the oldest site and would have been the focus of the propagation of Nypa fruticans in the Wouri estuary.
Renal Tubular CD24 Upregulation Aggravates Folic Acid Induced Acute Kidney Injury: A Possible Role for T Regulatory Cells Inhibition in Mice

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is characterized by cell death and inflammation. CD24 is a protein induced during tissue damage and is not expressed in mature renal tissue. We explored the role of CD24 in the pathogenesis of folic acid-induced AKI (FA-AKI) in mice. A single Intraperitoneal (IP) injection of folic acid induced AKI in WT and CD24−/− mice. Renal function tests, histological analysis, immunohistochemistry, Western blot analysis, and ELISA were performed to assess the severity of renal damage and the intensity of the inflammatory response. FA-AKI induced CD24 in the distal tubular epithelial cells. Compared to WT mice, FA-AKI CD24−/− mice exhibited an attenuated reduction in renal function and histological injury, lower serum IL-10 and interferon γ, and decreased expression of renal TNFα. In contrast, renal and systemic IL-33 upregulation were augmented. CD24−/− FA-AKI animals exhibited increased splenic margination and renal infiltration of regulatory T cells (Tregs). At day 7, FA-AKI CD24−/− mice exhibited increased expression of tubular pro-apoptotic and decreased anti-apoptotic proteins compared to WT animals. Anti-CD24 antibody administration to FA-AKI mice attenuated the decrease in renal function as well as the histological injury. Renal biopsies from patients with ATN stained strongly for CD24 in the distal tubules. In conclusion, during AKI, upregulation of CD24 promotes renal inflammation through inhibition of Treg infiltration and diversion of cell death towards necrosis rather than apoptosis. Neutralization of CD24 may prove a target for future therapies in AKI.
DNA Methylation Signatures of Response to Conventional Synthetic and Biologic Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex condition that displays heterogeneity in disease severity and response to standard treatments between patients. Failure rates for conventional, target synthetic, and biologic disease-modifying rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are significant. Although there are models for predicting patient response, they have limited accuracy, require replication/validation, or for samples to be obtained through a synovial biopsy. Thus, currently, there are no prediction methods approved for routine clinical use. Previous research has shown that genetics and environmental factors alone cannot explain the differences in response between patients. Recent studies have demonstrated that deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation plays an important role in the pathogenesis and disease progression of RA. Importantly, specific DNA methylation profiles associated with response to conventional, target synthetic, and biologic DMARDs have been found in the blood of RA patients and could potentially function as predictive biomarkers. This review will summarize and evaluate the evidence for DNA methylation signatures in treatment response mainly in blood but also learn from the progress made in the diseased tissue in cancer in comparison to RA and autoimmune diseases. We will discuss the benefits and challenges of using DNA methylation signatures as predictive markers and the potential for future progress in this area.
Profiles of University Students Who Graduate on Time: A Cohort Study from the Chilean Context

Graduating from higher education on time is an important topic, given its relation to students’ academic success and the efficiency of the institutions. However, a low percentage of university students finish their studies on time, which poses a challenge that requires the identification of the factors that account for this phenomenon. This study aimed to identify and characterize profiles of students who graduate on time. The population is 514 university students (45% men, 55% women), with an average age of 19.5 years (SD= 1.9) studying business at a university in Chile who belong to four cohorts entering between 2011 and 2014. The results obtained from the Classification and Regression Tree (CART) technique demonstrate eight student profiles constructed considering different variables at the pre-university, transition-motivation, and university levels. As the primary outcome, the profile of the student who graduates on time is characterized by a good performance in the first year of university, enters university right after high school, and takes advantage of institutional support by participating in academic tutoring. These findings suggest that institutions can implement specific strategies from the beginning of the university journey to promote on-time graduation.
M Dwarf Variability and Periodicities in Praesepe

212 M dwarfs in the Praesepe cluster have been monitored photometrically for three observing seasons. It is found that Praesepe M dwarfs earlier than ∼M4 often have significant photometric variations, while variability is not detected for >M4. Time series analysis was performed on 147 of the targets having likely variability in order to study possible periodicities. For 83% of these targets, we detected no periodicities; these null results included targets with published photometric periods from earlier work. Our detected periods ranged from 20 to 45 days, and we are not able to confirm any of the 1–5 day periods in Praesepe periods reported by Schultz et al., which we attribute to the very different observing cadences of the two studies. We conjecture that our more widely spaced data cannot adequately sample the Schultz et al. periodicities before the growth and decay of spots have a chance to ruin the coherence. The new periods we find in the range 20–45 days (in targets that do not overlap with those from Schultz having shorter periods) have very small false alarm probabilities. We argue that rotation is unlikely to be responsible for these 20–45 day periods. Perhaps short activity cycles in the Praesepe M dwarfs play a role in generating such periodicities.
Effect of Money Market Operations on Industrial Productivity in Nigeria

Nigeria's industrial zone is often seen as an instrument of economic development, and the financial sector is frequently seen as the fuel that accelerates the growth of that sector. These two areas are bound to interact in a way that benefits both. To that end, this study evaluated the impact of money market activities on industrial production in Nigeria. Quantitative data (time series data) was sourced from the Central Bank of Nigeria's statistics bulletin in 2021. The findings discovered that the interest rate was a highly predictive and negative factor for industrial sector production in Nigeria, but had little to no influence on production directly. But there exists a strong positive correlation amid the money supply and industrial production in Nigeria. Findings suggest that money market interest rates should be decreased and maintained by regulatory bodies at current levels. It is the job of the central bank to make sure there is always enough cash on hand for productive endeavours.