Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Agreeableness among Rugby Players

Numerous studies have consistently underlined the significance of personality characteristics in rugby, emphasizing how these traits influence an athlete's performance, interactions within the team, and overall success in the sport. Rugby, being a physically demanding and mentally challenging team sport, requires a diverse set of personality characteristics to excel. The aim of this paper is to assess the agreeableness, the main factor of personality, and its facets, among rugby male and female players, junior and senior. Thus, we consider that between junior and senior rugby players there are some statistically significant differences, depending on their gender, in terms of agreeableness and its facets. In this regard, 99 rugby players were investigated, 51 senior players (male=28, female=23), with an average age of 24 and 22 years, competing in the National Rugby 7's Championship and 48 junior players (male=23, female=25) with an average age of 15 years. To assess agreeableness, the Big Five Questionnaire©plus_short was utilized. This tool investigates all personality factors, including extraversion, conscientiousness, agreeableness, neuroticism, and openness, and it was developed and validated for the Romanian population in accordance with the Big Five model. The individual results were generated and interpreted by the PsihoProfile platform, and the values of the five meta-factors and their facets were analyzed using the Anova statistical test. The study results revealed that, overall, there are similarities in the level of agreeableness and its facets among rugby players. Nonetheless, statistically significant differences were observed in the level of agreeableness and its facets based on the athletes' gender and age.
Intestinal protozoan infections and environment conditions among rural schoolchildren in Western Brazilian Amazon

Layane Ferreira Balbino Universidade Federal do Acre Alberto Alves Filho Universidade Federal do Acre Beatrice Émeli Silva Farias Universidade Federal do Acre Geórgia Veloso Costa Universidade Federal do Acre Gustavo Henrique Sinhorin Universidade Federal do Acre Lidyane Liadja Souza Silva Universidade Federal do Acre Rubens de Cássio Reis Marques Universidade Federal do Acre Francimar Leão Jucá Centro Universitario do Norte Andreia Fernandes Brilhante (  afb.brilhante@gmail.com ) Universidade Federal do Acre https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4436-432X Leonardo Augusto Kohara Melchior Universidade Federal do Acre
Effect of Selenium Nanoparticles on the Expression of OqxBGene in Clinical Isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae

Background: OqxB is an efflux pump that has emerged as a factor contributing to antibiotic resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae. The objective of this study was to investigate the occurrence of AcrAB efflux pump resistance genes in clinical samples of K. pneumoniae and to evaluate the influence of selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs), loaded with ampicillin, on the expression of the OqxB gene associated with efflux pumps. Methods: A total of 500 clinical samples were collected from hospitalized patients, and 60 strains of K. pneumoniae were isolated using standard microbiological methods. These strains were then analyzed using phenotypic and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques to detect the frequency of KPSM, MRK, OqxA, and OqxB genes through multiplex PCR. The impact of Se-NPs loaded with ampicillin on the expression of the OqxB resistance gene was investigated using a real-time PCR technique. Results: Based on the results of this study, it was found that the KPSM gene is not present in any of the investigated K. pneumoniae isolates. However, the MRK, OqxA, and OqxB genes were detected in 57, 55, and 54 isolates, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for Se-NP and Se-NPs with ampicillin were reported to be 1500 μg/mL and 375 μg/mL, respectively. Notably, the SeNPs with ampicillin could significantly down-regulate the expression of the OqxB gene. These findings demonstrated the potential of Se-NPs as a promising strategy for reducing antibiotic resistance in K. pneumoniae infections. Conclusion: The findings emphasize the notable prevalence of drug resistance genes, specifically those associated with efflux pump production, in clinical samples of K. pneumoniae. Remarkably, the utilization of Se nanoparticles loaded with ampicillin demonstrated its efficacy in suppressing the expression of the OqxB gene and enhancing bacterial susceptibility to ampicillin. The results further imply that Se-NPs could serve as a promising avenue for the development of innovative antibacterial agents, aimed at combating antibiotic resistance in K. pneumoniae infections.
Sensitivity and vulnerability of European countries in time of crisis based on a new approach to data clustering and curvilinear analysis

In this paper we inquire into the way the global crisis during the period 2008- 2012 reflected in some macroeconomic and social indicators of the EU member states. Applying Curvilinear Component Analysis (CCA) on a dataset representing these social indicators, a classification of EU countries is obtained. Comparing this classification with the one resulted from a previous study with self organizing maps (SOM) it was noticed that the clusters are almost identical, CCA having the advantage of dimensionality reduction over SOM. CCA shows the detailed distances between the countries/year, dismissing outliers. This allows for a case by case study both in terms of clustering and in terms of temporal analysis. The research findings prove the sensitivity and vulnerability of European countries during the crisis and could help the policy makers to identify effective measures for strengthening the protective capacity of their states in the event of a future economic and social crisis.
Humus quality in Terrra rossa soils under olive groves with different soil management types

The paper aimed to determine humus quality in Terra rossa soils under olive groves with different soil management types. A total of 10 top-soil samples (0-20 cm) were collected in olive groves of Middle Dalmatia, Croatia, out of which 5 were from the traditional low-input olive groves (TOG) and 5 in the intensive olive groves (IOG). The soil samples were analyzed for basic soil properties, soil organic carbon (SOC), and fractional composition of humic substances. Spectroscopic characterization of humic substances was carried out by measuring absorbance in the VIS spectral range (400-700 nm). Optical index E 4 /E 6 (ratio of optical absorbance at 465 to 665 nm for humic substances in solution) was calculated. The mean value of SOC in soils under TOG (3.06%) was lower than in soils under IOG (3.88%). Higher variations of carbon in humic (C HA ) and fulvic acid (C FA ) were observed in the soils under IOG. The mean C HA /C FA ratio in soils under TOG was higher than in soils of IOG (1.78 and 1.26, respectively). The soils under TOG had fulvic-humic to humic types, while the soils of IOG had humic-fulvic to humic types of humus. A lower mean E 4 /E 6 index of soils under TOG than IOG (3.78 and 4.36, respectively) confirmed the results of the classical analytical method. Our findings reveal higher variation and lower humus quality in soils under intensive olive cultivation.
Nesfatin-1 prevents negative changes in bone in conditions of developing osteopenia.

OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to determine the effect of nesfatin-1 on bone properties in female rats in the conditions of developing osteopenia induced by ovariectomy (OVX). MATERIAL AND METHODS The experiment was performed on 21 female Wistar rats assigned to 3 groups receiving intraperitoneally physiological saline (SHO, OVX-PhS) and nesfatin-1 in dose 2 μg/kg BW of (OVX-NES) once a day for 8 wks. At the end of the experiment, the rats were scanned using the DXA method to determine the body composition, tBMC, and tBMD. The isolated femora and tibia were tested with the DXA method for BMD and BMC, and with the pQCT method for separate analysis of the cortical and trabecular bone tissue. The bone strength parameters were also determined. The immunohistochemical method was used for determination of nesfatin-1 localization in growth cartilage. Bone metabolism markers (osteocalcin, bALP, and NTx) were identified using an ELISA kit. RESULTS OVX exerts a negative effect on bone tissue. The nesfatin-1 administration influenced positively the DXA parameters of tibia. TvBMD and TbvBMD measured by pQCT in metaphysis of bones were significantly higher in the OVX-NES group than in OVX-PhS. No differences were found in the values of bone strength parameters between SHO and OVX-NES females. Extra- and intracellular immunohistochemical reaction for nesfatin-1 was observed in all zones of growth cartilage, with the strongest reaction detected in the calcifying zone. Nesfatin-1 administration caused a significant increase in the osteocalcin and bALP concentration in relation to the OVX-PhS animals. CONCLUSIONS The results of the experiment indicate that nesfatin-1 exerts a protective effect on bone tissue properties and can be used in the prevention of osteoporosis.
A Narrative Review of Recent Antibiotic Prescribing Practices in Ambulatory Care in Tanzania: Findings and Implications

Background and objectives: There are concerns with the current prescribing practices of antibiotics in ambulatory care in Tanzania, including both the public and private sectors. These concerns need to be addressed as part of the national action plan (NAP) of Tanzania to reduce rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) rates. Issues and concerns include high rates of prescribing of antibiotics for essentially self-limiting conditions. Consequently, there is a need to address this. As a result, the aims of this narrative review were to comprehensively summarize antibiotic utilization patterns particularly in ambulatory care and their rationale in Tanzania and to suggest ways forward to improve future prescribing practices. Materials and Methods: We undertook a narrative review of recently published studies and subsequently documented potential activities to improve future prescribing practices. Potential activities included instigating quality indicators and antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs). Results: Published studies have shown that antibiotics are being excessively prescribed in ambulatory care in Tanzania, in up to 95% to 96.3% of presenting cases depending on the sector. This is despite concerns with their appropriateness. High rates of antibiotic prescribing are not helped by variable adherence to current treatment guidelines. There have also been concerns with extensive prescribing of ‘Watch’ antibiotics in the private sector. Overall, the majority of antibiotics prescribed across the sectors, albeit inappropriately, were typically from the ‘Access’ group of antibiotics in the AWaRe (Access/Watch/Reserve) classification rather than ‘Watch’ antibiotics to limit AMR. The inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics in ambulatory care is linked to current knowledge regarding antibiotics, AMR, and ASPs among both prescribers and patients. Recommended activities for the future include improved education for all groups, the instigation of updated quality indicators, and the regular monitoring of prescribing practices against agreed-upon guidelines and indicators. Education for healthcare professionals on ASPs should start at undergraduate level and continue post qualification. Community advocacy on the rational use of antibiotics should also include social media activities to dispel misinformation. Conclusion: The quality of current prescribing practices of antibiotics in ambulatory care is sub-optimal in Tanzania. This needs to be urgently addressed.
Tropical-Extratropical Interactions Associated with East Asian Cold Air Outbreaks

AbstractInterannual variability of winter-mean East Asian cold air outbreaks (CAOs) and its relationship with the tropical climate system during 56 boreal winters (DJF) are investigated. The magnitude of CAO is quantified as winter-mean equatorward cold airmass (CAM) flux below 280-K potential temperature across the 45°N latitude. EOF analysis shows that the interannual variation of East Asian CAOs is attributed mainly to the contributions from western and eastern CAOs. In particular, the western and eastern CAOs tend to be remotely forced by La Nina and El Nino events, respectively.The western and eastern CAOs have distinct climate variability. The western CAO, which is enhanced under the climatic anomalies of high pressure over northern Eurasia and low pressure over the western North Pacific, causes negative CAM anomalies over northern Eurasia and positive ones over midlatitude East Asia. In the tropical region, the western CAO negatively correlates with the eastern Pacific and Indian Ocean SST, both of.
Inter-observer Variability in the Analysis of CO-RADS Classification for COVID-19 Patients

During the early stages of the pandemic, computed tomography (CT) of the chest, along with serological and clinical data, was frequently utilized in diagnosing COVID-19, particularly in regions facing challenges such as shortages of PCR kits. In these circumstances, CT scans played a crucial role in diagnosing COVID-19 and guiding patient management. The COVID-19 Reporting and Data System (CO-RADS) was established as a standardized reporting system for cases of COVID-19 pneumonia. Its implementation necessitates a high level of agreement among observers to prevent any potential confusion. This study aimed to assess the inter-observer agreement between physicians from different specialties with variable levels of experience in their CO-RADS scoring of CT chests for confirmed COVID-19 patients, and to assess the feasibility of applying this reporting system to those having little experience with it. All chest CT images of patients with positive RT-PCR tests for COVID-19 were retrospectively reviewed by seven observers. The observers were divided into three groups according to their type of specialty (three radiologists, three house officers, and one pulmonologist). The observers assessed each image and categorized the patients into five CO-RADS groups. A total of 630 participants were included in this study. The inter-observer agreement was almost perfect among the radiologists, substantial among a pulmonologist and the house officers, and moderate-to-substantial among the radiologists, the pulmonologist, and the house officers. There was substantial to almost perfect inter-observer agreement when reporting using the CO-RADS among observers with different experience levels. Although the inter-observer variability among the radiologists was high, it decreased compared to the pulmonologist and house officers. Radiologists, house officers, and pulmonologists applying the CO-RADS can accurately and promptly identify typical CT imaging features of lung involvement in COVID-19.
Diversity of native woody regeneration in exotic tree plantations and natural forest in Southern Philippines

ABSTRACT The use of exotic species in reforestations is one of the highly criticized forest policies in the Philippines, mainly due to their perceived negative impacts on biodiversity conservation. To ascertain the influence of exotic plantations on native flora establishments, we inventoried the structure, composition, and diversity of understory woody regeneration in three exotic stands in Southern Philippines and compared them to adjacent second growth forest. The mean total density of regeneration did not differ significantly among the stands, except for the separate density of saplings and seedlings where natural forest had significantly the lowest and highest density, respectively, over the exotic stands. Teak (Tectona grandis L.) and mangium (Acacia mangium Willd.) stands generally had the bigger basal area, indicating the dominance of saplings in these areas. A low diversity characterized the four stands with the lowest and highest diversity indices observed, respectively, in the mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King) and natural forest. Despite their proximity, each stand exhibited uniqueness in species composition, with some of the endangered species observed only in the exotic stands. Therefore, it would be interesting to know how continued protection of these stands would affect the trajectory of succession of native species over time.
Antitumor evaluation of amaryllidaceae alkaloids on cancer cell lines: A literature review

Amaryllidaceae alkaloids have attracted significant attention in cancer research for their potential antitumor properties. To date, numerous studies have investigated the effects of these alkaloids on cancer cell lines, but a comprehensive synthesis of the existing evidence through a literature review is warranted. This article presents a comprehensive literature review aimed at evaluating the antitumor effects of amaryllidaceae alkaloids on various cancer cell lines and elucidating the underlying mechanisms of action. A search was conducted in major scientific databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, to identify relevant studies published between 2013 and 2023. Studies that examined the antitumor effects of amaryllidaceae alkaloids on cancer cell lines were included in the review. Data were extracted, analyzed, and synthesized to provide an in-depth overview of the findings. The alkaloids exhibited potent cytotoxicity and suppressed cell proliferation in a concentration-dependent manner. Mechanistic investigations unveiled that amaryllidaceae alkaloids induced apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and hindered angiogenesis in cancer cells. Moreover, they demonstrated favorable selectivity towards cancer cells, sparing normal cells, suggesting potential as targeted therapies. This literature review consolidates and critically appraises the available evidence on the antitumor effects of amaryllidaceae alkaloids on cancer cell lines. The findings underscore their potential as promising candidates for further exploration in cancer therapeutics. Future preclinical and clinical studies are vital to advance their development and translation into effective anticancer drugs.
Odonate diversity along different habitats of Koraput district, Odisha, India

Odonates are considered to be indicator of ecological balance. An inventory was carried out to document the over looked odonate diversity in four habitat types (hill stream, river, reservoir and pond) of Koraput district, southern Odisha, India. The study recorded 64 species representing 45 genera under 9 families. Family Libellulidae was the dominant group representing 32 species. Maximum species (n=58, 90.6%) were recorded along hill streams. Forty-one species were recorded from single habitat type, of which 37 species were confined to hill streams. A decreasing trend in species diversity was observed from the water bodies in the forested areas to human dominated landscapes indicating human impact on odonate species diversity. Ditch Jewel (Brachythemis contaminate) was most frequently sighted in the water bodies near human habitations, indicating highly polluted water not suitable for human consumption, whereas species like Common Clubtail (Ictinogomphus rapax) and Common Hooktail (Paragomphus lineatus) were only recorded along hill streams, indicating unpolluted water.
Toll-like Receptor 2 Mediated Immune Regulation in Simian Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Rhesus Macaques

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are crucial to the innate immune response. They regulate inflammatory reactions by initiating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. TLRs also play a role in shaping the adaptive immune responses. While this protective response is important for eliminating infectious pathogens, persistent activation of TLRs may result in chronic immune activation, leading to detrimental effects. The role of TLR2 in regulating HIV-1 infection in vivo has yet to be well described. In this study, we used an SIV-infected rhesus macaque model to simulate HIV infection in humans. We evaluated the plasma of the macaques longitudinally and found a significant increase in the soluble TLR2 (sTLR2) level after SIV infection. We also observed an increase in membrane-bound TLR2 (mb-TLR2) in cytotoxic T cells, B cells, and NK cells in PBMC and NK cells in the gut after infection. Our results suggest that sTLR2 regulates the production of various cytokines and chemokines, including IL-18, IL-1RA, IL-15, IL-13, IL-9, TPO, FLT3L, and IL-17F, as well as chemokines, including IP-10, MCP-1, MCP-2, ENA-78, GRO-α, I-TAC, Fractalkine, SDF-1α, and MIP-3α. Interestingly, these cytokines and chemokines were also upregulated after the infection. The positive correlation between SIV copy number and sTLR2 in the plasma indicated the involvement of TLR2 in the regulation of viral replication. These cytokines and chemokines could directly or indirectly regulate viral replication through the TLR2 signaling pathways. When we stimulated PBMC with the TLR2 agonist in vitro, we observed a direct induction of various cytokines and chemokines. Some of these cytokines and chemokines, such as IL-1RA, IL-9, IL-15, GRO-α, and ENA-78, were positively correlated with sTLR2 in vivo, highlighting the direct involvement of TLR2 in the regulation of the production of these factors. Our findings suggest that TLR2 expression may be a target for developing new therapeutic strategies to combat HIV infection.
Ion nose spectral structures observed by the Van Allen Probes

We present a statistical study of nose‐like structures observed in energetic hydrogen, helium, and oxygen ions near the inner edge of the plasma sheet. Nose structures are spectral features named after the characteristic shapes of energy bands or gaps in the energy‐time spectrograms of in situ measured ion fluxes. Using 22 months of observations from the Helium Oxygen Proton Electron instrument onboard Van Allen Probe A, we determine the number of noses observed, and the minimum L shell reached and energy of each nose on each pass through the inner magnetosphere. We find that multiple noses occur more frequently in heavy ions than in H+ and are most often observed during quiet times. The heavy‐ion noses penetrate to lower L shells than H+ noses, and there is an energy‐magnetic local time (MLT) dependence in the nose locations and energies that is similar for all species. The observations are interpreted by using a steady state model of ion drift in the inner magnetosphere. The model is able to explain the energy and MLT dependence of the different types of nose structures. Different ion charge‐exchange lifetimes are the main cause for the deeper penetration of heavy‐ion noses. The species dependence and preferred geomagnetic conditions of multiple‐nose events indicate that they must be on long drift paths, leading to strong charge‐exchange effects. The results provide important insight into the spatial distribution, species dependence, and geomagnetic conditions under which nose structures occur.