Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Determinants of above-ground carbon stocks and productivity in secondary forests along a 3000-m elevation gradient in the Ecuadorian Andes

ABSTRACT Background Secondary montane forests, covering 30% of forested lands in the Andes, play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of carbon release. However, the mechanisms responsible for carbon sequestration in the above-ground biomass of these forests are not well quantified. Aims Understanding the determinants of above-ground carbon (AGC) dynamics in secondary forests along a 3000-m elevational gradient in the Andes to assess their mitigation potential. Methods We assessed how abiotic and biotic conditions and past human disturbances were related to forest structure and composition, AGC stocks and productivity within sixteen 0.36-ha plots established in secondary forest stands of 30–35 years of age. Results Structural equation models revealed that changes in temperature conditions along the elevation gradient shaped leaf functional composition, which in turn controlled AGC dynamics. Productivity and temperature decreased with increasing elevation and decreased tree community leaf area. Disturbance legacy (Tree mortality) increased with competitive thinning and low soil fertility. Conclusions We show that temperature drives AGC dynamics by changing the functional trait composition. This highlights the importance of preserving these forests along elevation gradients and implies potentially strong future changes due to global warming.
Comparison of least squares analyses of long and short period P wave amplitudes

Summary A least squares technique used previously in analyses of the amplitudes of short period P waves has now been applied to observations of P waves recorded on long period instruments. Intercomparison of all the results obtained by this method indicates that the true amplitude distance curve is less irregular than the one derived by Gutenberg and Richter, and in particular that there is no large peak in amplitude between 35" and 45". There is some suggestion of small scale irregularities in the curve, which it should be possible to define more clearly by analysis of a greater quantity of data. The range of variation of station amplitude corrections is much the same for long and short period waves, which suggests that the variations result from regional differences in the structure of the upper mantle. The rates of attenuation beyond about 80" for waves of different periods are approximately in conformity with those predicted from theoretical studies by Phinney and Cathles of diffraction effects at the core-mantle boundary. However, no certain inference can be made about the velocity structure at the base of the mantle from the results presently available.
Association of serum immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G antibody levels with different indicators of metabolic syndrome

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MS) is an assemblage of biochemical derangements of glucose metabolism, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and central obesity allied with implacable low-grade inflammation. Aims and Objectives: The current cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the levels of serum Immunoglobulin IgM, and IgG concentrations in subjects with and without MS. Materials and Methods: The study population included 50 adults with MS as cases confirmed by estimation of serum triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), Fasting Plasma Glucose, waist circumference, and blood pressure. Serum IgM and IgG levels were evaluated in cases and controls (from a healthy population), followed by statistical analysis, with the significance level set at P<0.05. Results: The comparison of the serum IgM levels between the case and control groups revealed that the level was significantly higher in the former (P<0.001) compared to the latter, but no statistically significant difference existed in the IgG values. Correlation analysis showed significant positive correlation of IgM with TG (ρ=+0.870, P<0.001), waist circumference (ρ=+0.683, P=0.009) and negative correlation with HDL-C (ρ=−0.751, P<0.001). A significant positive correlation of IgG with waist circumference (ρ=+0.889, P<0.001) was derived. Regression analysis affirmed that statistically, TG (R2=0.768), waist circumference (R2=0.751), and HDL-C (R2=0.705) significantly explained the variance in IgM, whereas IgG was related to only waist circumference. Conclusion: The present study provides a novel perspective that IgM may be involved in the pathogenesis of MS in a population from eastern India, and the outcome suggests the association between IgM and MS may be through lipid metabolism disorders and obesity.
Biomass allocation and equations for silver birch (Betula pendula) and downy birch (Betula pubescens) in Estonia

ABSTRACT The values of the fractional distribution of aboveground (AGB) and belowground biomass (BGB), root/shoot ratios (R/S) and stemwood density were estimated for silver (Betula pendula) and downy birch (Betula pubescens) along site index and age gradients for Estonia. Biomass models were used, in which the diameter at breast height (D1.3, measured above root collar), tree height, age and site index served as independent variables. The models for AGB and BGB were elaborated based on the data of 117 and 30 model trees, respectively. Strong allometric relationships were revealed between D1.3 and total AGB (with foliage), stem mass and BGB. For trees with D1.3 < 15 cm, individual models predicted similar biomass patterns for both species, for larger trees, species-specific models are suggested. The relative share of stem mass in AGB was 80–90% for all site index and age classes, being significantly higher for silver birch. The average relative share of stembark, branches, leaves and the R/S, were significantly higher for downy birch. Mean oven-dry mass stemwood density for silver and downy birch was 0.573 g cm−3, there was no statistically significant difference between the species. The mean R/S ratio was 0.29 and 0.43 for silver and downy birch, respectively.
De-escalated radiotherapy for HER2-overexpressing breast cancer patients with 1-3 positive lymph nodes undergoing anti-HER2 targeted therapy

Background In the era of anti-HER2 targeted therapy, the potential clinical feasibility of considering HER2-overexpressing breast cancer cases presenting with 1-3 positive axillary lymph nodes as low-risk, and thereby contemplating postoperative radiotherapy reduction, remains an important subject for in-depth examination. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the effectiveness of de-escalated radiotherapy in T1-2N1M0 HER2-overexpressing breast cancer patients receiving anti-HER2 targeted therapy. Specifically, omitting regional lymph node irradiation (RNI) after breast-conserving surgery and only performing whole-breast irradiation or omitting postmastectomy radiation therapy. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 429 patients with stage T1-2N1M0 primary invasive HER2-overexpressing breast cancer from our center between 2004 and 2018. Patients who received anti-HER2 targeted therapy were divided into an RNI group and a no RNI group to assess the role of RNI. The prognostic role of RNI was investigated via the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards modeling. Results The median follow-up time was 46.8 months (range 7.1–225.8 months). In the anti-HER2 targeted therapy group RNI yielded no significant improvements in invasive disease-free survival (IDFS) (p = 0.940), local-regional recurrence-free survival (p = 0.380), distant metastases-free survival (p = 0.698), or overall survival (p = 0.403). Estrogen receptor (ER) status (hazard ratio [HR] 0.105, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.023–0.749, p = 0.004) and lymph vascular invasion status (LVI) (HR 5.721, 95% CI 1.586–20.633, p = 0.008) were identified as independent prognostic factors for IDFS, and ER-positive and LVI-negative patients exhibited better prognoses. Conclusion Omitting RNI may be a safe option in T1-2N1 HER2-overexpressing breast cancer patients receiving standardized anti-HER2 targeted therapy; particularly in ER-positive or LVI-negative subgroups.
Hygiene Knowledge and Practices of Portuguese Hunters Using Wild Boar Meat for Private Consumption

The microbiological contamination of wild boar meat depends on the hygiene practices that hunters apply during its preparation, from the point of collection to its refrigeration. This study assesses Portuguese hunters’ knowledge of hygiene practices when handling wild boar carcasses that can jeopardise meat safety. A general structured survey entitled “Private consumption of game meat and good hygiene practices” was distributed to Portuguese hunters. Of the 206 respondents, 95% use wild boar meat for private consumption without prior inspection or initial examination by a veterinarian. This study also revealed that the vast majority of respondents have several risky practices that can compromise the safety of wild boar meat consumed (evisceration, handling, refrigeration, and transport). It is also evident that there is a lack of knowledge related to recognising lesions compatible with zoonotic infections in the hunted animals. These inappropriate knowledge and practices can pose a risk to hunters (occupational zoonotic health) and consumers (foodborne diseases). To reduce this risk, hunters need to be trained and informed about proper game meat handling practices.
miRNAs: Targets to Investigate Herpesvirus Infection Associated with Neurological Disorders

Herpesvirus is associated with various neurological disorders and a specific diagnosis is associated with a better prognosis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers of neurological diseases triggered by herpetic infection. In this review, we discuss miRNAs that have been associated with neurological disorders related to the action of herpesviruses. Human miRNAs and herpesvirus-encoded miRNAs were listed and discussed. This review article will be valuable in stimulating the search for new diagnostic and prognosis alternatives and understanding the role of these miRNAs in neurological diseases triggered by herpesviruses.
The Efficacy and Adverse Effects of Corticosteroid Pulse Therapy in Alopecia Areata: A Review Article

Introduction Alopecia areata (AA) is a common, non-scarring, autoimmune hair loss disorder, varying in severity from small round hairless patches to the total loss of scalp or body hair. As steroid pulse therapy outcomes for AA vary, this study aimed to review the related literature regarding the efficacy, relapse rates, side effects, and prognostic factors associated with the response to different pulse corticosteroid treatments. Methods We performed a literature search on August 29, 2022, to provide an overview of the efficacy of pulse steroid therapy in patients with AA. The terms “pulse steroid therapy AND alopecia areata” and “pulse corticosteroid therapy AND alopecia areata” were searched on PubMed and Google Scholar. Results A total of 24 articles were assessed. There was no difference in outcomes and side effects between intravenous and oral pulse corticosteroid therapy. The relapse rate and efficacy depended on the time of AA onset, age, and AA type: improved outcomes and decreased relapse were linked with recent onset (<6 months), a younger age (<10 years), and the multifocal type of AA. Patients with a past medical history of atopy, nail pitting, or thyroid disease and those with severe forms of AA like alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis had the least improvement. Conclusions All kinds of mentioned systemic pulse corticosteroids effectively induce hair regrowth in AA. Betamethasone pulse seems to be the most effective agent (followed by intramuscular triamcinolone), especially in severe cases, but more side effects may accompany it. Combining this agent with other medications can reduce the dosage and side effects. Pulses of prednisolone and methylprednisolone are less effective but safer, as they have low relapse rates and adverse effects. A combination of them with other drugs can increase their efficacy.
Smart Construction Using Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Smart construction is the application of advanced technologies and digital tools in the construction industry to enhance productivity, efficiency, and collaboration throughout the construction process. One of the key technologies used in smart construction is Building Information Modelling (BIM), a digital representation of a building or infrastructure project encompassing its physical and functional characteristics. This study investigates the factors influencing BIM implementation in Indonesia's construction industry. The study surveyed 175 engineers in Indonesian construction companies and used SmartPLS to analyze the data. The findings indicate that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence significantly impact behavioral intentions to use BIM, which, in turn, positively correlates with individual user behaviors when using BIM in Indonesian construction companies.
Mupirocin resistance patterns in staphylococcus isolates causing cutaneous and soft-tissue infections: An epidemiological study in a tertiary health-care facility, Dhule, Maharashtra, India

Background: Skin and soft-tissue infections (SSI) caused by Staphylococcus aureus remain a significant concern in both community and hospital settings. Mupirocin resistance among these isolates poses challenges for infection management and control strategies. Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and patterns of mupirocin resistance among staphylococcus isolates responsible for cutaneous and soft-tissue infections in patients attending a tertiary health-care facility. Along with that, the study investigated into mupirocin resistance prevalence and identified risk factors. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted at a medical college, including 256 non-consecutive staphylococcal isolates from SSI. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute recommended methods. Mupirocin resistance was determined through disk diffusion testing using 5 μg and 200 μg Mupirocin disks for low-level and high-level resistance, respectively. Results: Among the samples, 16.4% were methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and 9.37% were methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci. Mupirocin high-level resistance was found in 16.6% of S. aureus isolates, and mupirocin low-level resistance in 19% of MRSA isolates. The prevalence of resistance was lower in inpatient departments compared to outpatient departments. Associations were observed between resistance and patient demographics, history of mupirocin use, surgical site infections, hospitalization history, and diabetes. Conclusion: Mupirocin resistance presents a multifaceted challenge in the context of both patient demographics and clinical settings. The prevalence of resistance was influenced by factors such as patient age, gender, and prior mupirocin usage.
Changes in Cardiac Autonomic Modulation in Children Following 4 and 8 Weeks of Supervised Summer Activity

Background: Pediatric obesity is associated with lower physical activity levels and a decrease in cardiac autonomic modulation. Physical activity contributes cardiovascular improvements via increases in heart rate variability. However involvement in regular physical activity decreases during summer vacation for adolescent children. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness four and eight weeks of supervised summer play-based activity versus eight weeks of unsupervised activity in adolescent children during summer vacation on resting heart rate variability (HRV). Methods: Twenty-two 8 to 12 year-old children were divided into 4 wk and 8 wk activity or control groups. 4 wk and 8 wk treatment groups met 5 days per week, took part in play-based activities for 6 hours each day. Control subjects were instructed to maintain their regular summer break plans with no intervention by the study team. Results: Total power (TP) increased at rest and with tilt following 8 weeks of activity. The significant differences between the 8 wk activity group and the control group supported the idea that routine play-based activity can increase heart rate variability positively and enhance sympathovagal balance in children over summer vacation.
Exploring lncRNAs associated with human pancreatic islet cell death induced by transfer of adoptive lymphocytes in a humanized mouse model

Background Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)-mediated posttranscriptional and epigenetic landscapes of gene regulation are associated with numerous human diseases. However, the regulatory mechanisms governing human β-cell function and survival remain unknown. Owing to technical and ethical constraints, studying the direct role of lncRNAs in β-cell function and survival in humans in vivo is difficult. Therefore, we utilized humanized mice with human islets to investigate lncRNA expression using whole transcriptome shotgun sequencing. Our study aimed to characterize lncRNAs that may be crucial for human islet cell function and survival. Methods Human β-cell death was induced in humanized mice engrafted with functional human islets. Using these humanized mice harboring human islets with induced β-cell death, we investigated lncRNA expression through whole transcriptome shotgun sequencing. Additionally, we systematically identified, characterized, and explored the regulatory functions of lncRNAs that are potentially important for human pancreatic islet cell function and survival. Results Human islet cell death was induced in humanized mice engrafted with functional human islets. RNA sequencing analysis of isolated human islets, islet grafts from humanized mice with and without induced cell death, revealed aberrant expression of a distinct set of lncRNAs that are associated with the deregulated mRNAs important for cellular processes and molecular pathways related to β-cell function and survival. A total of 10 lncRNA isoforms (SCYL1-1:22, POLG2-1:1, CTRB1-1:1, SRPK1-1:1, GTF3C5-1:1, PPY-1:1, CTRB1-1:5, CPA5-1:1, BCAR1-2:1, and CTRB1-1:4) were identified as highly enriched and specific to human islets. These lncRNAs were deregulated in human islets from donors with different BMIs and with type 2 diabetes (T2D), as well as in cultured human islets with glucose stimulation and induced cell death induced by cytokines. Aberrant expression of these lncRNAs was detected in the exosomes from the medium used to culture islets with cytokines. Conclusion Islet-enriched and specific human lncRNAs are deregulated in human islet grafts and cultured human islets with induced cell death. These lncRNAs may be crucial for human β-cell function and survival and could have an impact on identifying biomarkers for β-cell loss and discovering novel therapeutic targets to enhance β-cell function and survival.
Determinant Factors of the Housing Prices for the City of Tabriz: A Spatial Econometric Approach

2 Abstract: In this paper we have studied the effective factors of the housing hedonic prices for the city of Tabriz. In doing so, we have collected a sample of 330 units of apartment in Tabriz; the function of housing hedonic prices has been evaluated with classical regression model as well as spatial regression model. We have also studied the spatial dependence on the housing prices.The results show that there are spatial dependence between the prices of residential apartments in the city of Tabriz. The goodness of fit criteria show the superiority of spatial regression model. The estimation of hedonic price function with spatial regression show that 20 characteristics out of 29 characteristics which have been studied,have meaningful effects on the prices of apartments and all the variables have expected signs. The coefficient of spatial autoregressive is also highly meaningful.Our results show that physical characters have more effects on the prices than environmental and accessibility characters.Among the physical characters, having lobby,swimming pool, number of rooms and the age of the buildings are the most important characters and the main environmental character on the price is the distance to educational centers.
Investment motivation, investment knowledge, investment risk perception on investment decisions mediated by investment interest

This research aims to identify the relationship between the variables observed in this group of subjects. The main data source was obtained by collecting data from respondents using questionnaires online or in person when meeting students at Bunda Mulia University on the Ancol campus and Serpong campus, and subordinate data sources were obtained from the literature study. The results of processing respondent data found that the investment motivation variable has a negative and significant effect on students' investment decisions in the capital market. The second hypothesis is that investment knowledge is a factor that influences investment decisions in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). It can be interpreted that investment interest acts as a mediating factor that bridges the relationships between the independent variables and dependent variables. Therefore, it is hoped that students will be able to provide education about investment to the public as well as advance the Indonesian capital market, especially for students at Jenderal Soedirman University, so that the number of new investors among students continues to increase and increase.
The Effect of Emotional Intelligence and Self-Efficacy Awareness on EFL Teachers’ Pedagogical Practices: A Qualitative Study in the Saudi EFL Context

The study aims to explore the EFL Saudi teachers’ perceptions of awareness of emotional intelligence (EI) and self-efficacy. It aims to explore the EFL teachers’ awareness of EI and self-efficacy that might influence their performances in EFL classrooms. Moreover, the study examines EI and self-efficacy strategies used by EFL teachers to aid them in their classrooms. The study uses a qualitative paradigm by collecting data using two tools: a workshop and follow-up semi-structured interviews. The data were collected at a Saudi university’s English Language institute. The sample consisted of six Saudi EFL teachers. The findings reveal that teachers have positive perceptions of the awareness of EI and self-efficacy. In addition, teachers utilized their social surroundings in attempting to understand their students’ needs to facilitate the learning process. Despite being unfamiliar with technical terms, teachers’ responses were aligned with the cornerstones of EI and self-efficacy. Teachers emphasized the role of gaining knowledge through their experiences which thus helps them in their pedagogical practices. Based on the findings of the study, pedagogical implications and future research recommendations were suggested.