Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Distribution of the threatened lace hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus reichenbachii) under various climate change scenarios

Abstract Climate change predictions for the Great Plains region of North America include increased temperatures and changes to annual precipitation patterns. We used ecological niche modeling (Maxent) to assess how three climate change scenarios published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change might affect the distribution of the threatened lace hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus reichenbachii) by the 2050s and the 2080s. Under all scenarios investigated, the total land area of suitable habitat for the species increased relative to the current land area predicted as highly suitable by the model. However, under all scenarios, the center of the most suitable area for this species shifted by 160–604 km from the current location in northwest Texas, changing at a rate 20–75 km per decade. While the rate of dispersal in this species is not known, Echinocereus spp. seeds are typically spread by small mammals and it seems unlikely that this species will be able to disperse rapidly. Consequently, the range may initially contract during the coming century, especially in southern Texas where it is most imperiled and where the climate is predicted to become increasingly unsuitable. The current patchiness of distribution of the species suggests that microhabitat characteristics and limitations to dispersal might reduce its actual realized niche relative to the fundamental niche indicated by the models. In addition, land use for agriculture, grazing, and urbanization might further reduce the success of this species in a changing climate.
Functional Tradeoffs Carry Phenotypes Across the Valley of the Shadow of Death.

Functional tradeoffs are often viewed as constraints on phenotypic evolution, but they can also facilitate evolution across the suboptimal valleys separating performance peaks. I explore this process by reviewing a previously published model of how disruptive selection from competing functional demands defines an intermediate performance optimum for morphological systems that cannot simultaneously be optimized for all of the functional roles they must play. Because of the inherent tradeoffs in such a system, its optimal morphology in any particular environmental context will usually be intermediate between the performance peaks of the competing functions. The proportional contribution of each functional demand can be estimated by maximum likelihood from empirically observed morphologies, including complex ones measured with multivariate geometric morphometrics, using this model. The resulting tradeoff weight can be mapped onto a phylogenetic tree to study how the performance optimum has shifted across a functional landscape circumscribed by the function-specific performance peaks. This model of tradeoff evolution is sharply different from one in which a multipeak OU model is applied to a set of morphologies and a phylogenetic tree to estimate how many separate performance optima exist. The multi-peak OU approach assumes that each branch is pushed toward one of two or more performance peaks that exist simultaneously and are separated by valleys of poor performance, whereas the model discussed here assumes that each branch tracks a single optimal performance peak that wanders through morphospace as the balance of functional demands shifts. That the movements of this net performance peak emerge from changing frequencies of selection events from opposing functional demands is illustrated using a series of computational simulations. These simulations show how functional tradeoffs can carry evolution across putative performance valleys: even though intermediate morphologies may not perform optimally for any one function, they may represent the optimal solution in any environment in which an organism experiences competing functional demands.
ALETRED LIPID PROFILE OF DIABETIC MICE AND HYPOLIPIDEMIC ROLE OF MORINGA OLEIFERA LAM. LEAF POWDER

In Present study, the effect of leaf powder of Moringa oleifera Lam. on lipid profile in normal and diabetic mice was investigated. Diabetes was induce d in female mice (25±5 gram) by the intraperitoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate. Both normal and di abetic mice were fed with standard animal food containing 40% of leaf Powder of Moringa oleifera Lam. for two weeks. In control mice fed with of leaf Powder of Moringa oleifera Lam. significantly reduced Low Density Lipoprotein - Cho lesterol (LDL-C) from 26.9±3.2 (mg/dl) to 15.1±2.2 (mg/dl) and signi ficant increase of High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) from17.6± 0.9 (mg/dl) to 19.2±0.3 (mg/dl). In diabetic mice reduction was recorded in serum triglyceride (TG) from 156.2±3.8 (mg/dl) to 101.2±2.2 (mg/dl) levels and decrease in total cholesterol from 188.2± 2.8 (mg/dl) to 122.2 ±2.2(mg/dl) when mice fed with Leaf Powder of Moringa oleifera Lam. These results indicate that the of leaf Powder of Moringa oleifera Lam. improved the serum lipid profile in normal and diabetic mice by decreasing TG, LDL-C and increasing serum HDL-C and may be of great value in managing the diabetic complications.
Systematic review of the use of “magnitude-based inference” in sports science and medicine

Magnitude-based inference (MBI) is a controversial statistical method that has been used in hundreds of papers in sports science despite criticism from statisticians. To better understand how this method has been applied in practice, we systematically reviewed 232 papers that used MBI. We extracted data on study design, sample size, and choice of MBI settings and parameters. Median sample size was 10 per group (interquartile range, IQR: 8–15) for multi-group studies and 14 (IQR: 10–24) for single-group studies; few studies reported a priori sample size calculations (15%). Authors predominantly applied MBI’s default settings and chose “mechanistic/non-clinical” rather than “clinical” MBI even when testing clinical interventions (only 16 studies out of 232 used clinical MBI). Using these data, we can estimate the Type I error rates for the typical MBI study. Authors frequently made dichotomous claims about effects based on the MBI criterion of a “likely” effect and sometimes based on the MBI criterion of a “possible” effect. When the sample size is n = 8 to 15 per group, these inferences have Type I error rates of 12%-22% and 22%-45%, respectively. High Type I error rates were compounded by multiple testing: Authors reported results from a median of 30 tests related to outcomes; and few studies specified a primary outcome (14%). We conclude that MBI has promoted small studies, promulgated a “black box” approach to statistics, and led to numerous papers where the conclusions are not supported by the data. Amidst debates over the role of p-values and significance testing in science, MBI also provides an important natural experiment: we find no evidence that moving researchers away from p-values or null hypothesis significance testing makes them less prone to dichotomization or over-interpretation of findings.
Oral Administration of S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and Lactobacillus Plantarum HEAL9 Improves the Mild-To-Moderate Symptoms of Depression: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.

Objective To assess the effects of the combination of SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine) 200 mg and Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) HEAL9 1 × 10⁹ CFU for the overall symptomatology of mild-to-moderate depression. Methods This 6-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study included subjects aged 18-60 years with mild-to-moderate depression (according to ICD-10 diagnostic criteria) recruited from September 17, 2018, to October 5, 2018. Difference between groups in change from baseline to treatment week 6 on the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (Z-SDS) was the primary outcome. Comparisons between groups in change from baseline to treatment week 2 of the Z-SDS and from baseline to treatment weeks 2 and 6 of other scales (related to insomnia, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, and health status) were also analyzed. Results Ninety patients were randomized to SAMe plus L. plantarum HEAL9 (n = 46) or placebo (n = 44) groups. A greater reduction for the new combination compared to placebo was seen at treatment week 6 in the Z-SDS total score (P = .0165) and the core depression subdomain (P = .0247). A significant reduction in favor of the combination was shown at treatment week 2 for the Z-SDS total score (P = .0330), the cognitive and anxiety subdomains (P = .0133 and P = .0459, respectively), and the anxiety questionnaire (P = .0345). No treatment-related adverse events occurred. Conclusions Supplementation of SAMe and L. plantarum HEAL9 in adults with subthreshold or mild-to-moderate symptoms of depression resulted in fast and clinically relevant effects after 2 weeks. The combination was safe and significantly improved symptoms of depression, anxiety, and cognitive and somatic components. The effect of this novel product is independent from the severity of the symptoms unlike traditional antidepressants available on the market that have minimal benefits for subthreshold or mild-to-moderate symptoms. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03932474.
Exploring the potential moderating role of self-compassion on the relationships between event centrality and post-assault psychological outcomes.

OBJECTIVE The present study examined whether post-assault internal processes (i.e., present control, event centrality, and compassionate and uncompassionate self-responding) were associated with distress and resilience among women who have experienced adult sexual assault. The authors also tested whether compassionate and uncompassionate self-responses would moderate the relationships between event centrality and outcomes. METHOD A convenience sample of women who had experienced sexual assault during adulthood (N = 253) completed an anonymous online survey. RESULTS Regression analyses showed that lower present control, higher event centrality, and higher uncompassionate responses to the self were associated with posttraumatic stress disorder. Additionally, higher present control and higher compassionate responses to the self were associated with resilience. Moderation analyses were not significant. CONCLUSIONS Endorsing greater levels of uncompassionate responses was associated with greater distress while engaging in greater compassionate responses was associated with greater resilience, even when accounting for levels of present control and event centrality.
Longitudinal patterns of illicit drug use, ART exposure and plasma HIV-1 RNA viral load among HIV-positive people who use illicit drugs.

OBJECTIVES HIV-positive people who use illicit drugs (PWUD) experience elevated rates of HIV-associated morbidity and mortality compared with members of other key affected populations. Although suboptimal levels of access and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) are common among HIV-positive PWUD, there is a need for studies investigating the possible biological impacts of noninjection illicit drug use among people living with HIV in real-world settings. METHODS We accessed data from the ACCESS study, an ongoing prospective cohort of illicit drug users with systematic HIV viral load monitoring in a setting with universal care and ART dispensation records. We used multivariable generalized linear mixed models to estimate the longitudinal associations between noninjection use of crack cocaine, powder cocaine, opioids, methamphetamine, cannabis and alcohol on plasma HIV-1 RNA viral load, adjusted for ART exposure and relevant confounders. RESULTS Between 2005 and 2018, 843 individuals from the ACCESS cohort were included and contributed to 8698 interviews. At baseline, the mean age was 43 years, 566 (67%) reported male sex and 659 (78%) used crack cocaine in the previous 6 months. In multivariable models adjusted for ART exposure, only crack cocaine use in the last 6 months was found to be significantly associated with higher HIV viral load. CONCLUSION We observed significantly higher HIV viral load during periods of crack cocaine use independent of ART exposure. Our findings support further research to investigate the possible biological mechanisms of this effect.
Effect of capsazepine on [Ca2+]i in MDCK renal tubular cells

The current study explored whether capsazepine changed basal cytosolic free Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) levels in suspended Madin Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells cells by using fura‐2 as a Ca2+‐selective fluorescent dye. At concentrations of 10–200 µM, capsazepine increased [Ca2+]i in a concentration‐dependent manner. The Ca2+ signal was partially reduced by 40% by removing extracellular Ca2+. Capsazepine induced Mn2+ quench of fura‐2 fluorescence, indirectly implicating Ca2+ entry. Capsazepine‐induced Ca2+ influx was unchanged by L‐type Ca2+ entry inhibitors and protein kinase C modulators [phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) and GF109203X]. In Ca2+‐free medium, 100 µM capsazepine‐induced Ca2+ release was substantially suppressed by pretreatment with thapsigargin (an endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor). Pretreatment with capsazepine nearly abolished thapsigargin‐induced Ca2+ release. Inhibition of phospholipase C with U73122 did not change capsazepine‐induced [Ca2+]i rises. Collectively, in MDCK cells, capsazepine induced [Ca2+]i rises by causing phospholipase C‐independent Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum and Ca2+ influx via non‐L‐type Ca2+ channels. Drug Dev Res 72: 323–329, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sequence and characterization of shuttle vectors for molecular cloning in Porphyromonas, Bacteroides, and related bacteria.

There is a lack of shuttle vectors to be needed for investigations into the genetics of Porphyromonas gingivalis and related species. To better understand the prevalence of candidates for such tools we have examined multiple strains of black pigmented anaerobes (clinical and laboratory isolates) for plasmids. As no plasmids were found in P. gingivalis strains, we have used the pYH420 plasmid, derived from P. asaccharolytica, as backbone to construct a shuttle vector in combination with pUC19 from Escherichia coli. Nucleotide sequence determination of the pYH420 plasmid revealed that that it contained a gene with similarity to rep from plasmid pTS1 (isolated from Treponema denticola) as well as a homolog of mobA, a member of a gene family found on mobilizable genetic elements found in the genus Bacteroides. We constructed the pG106 and pG108 shuttle vectors using parts of the pUC19 and pYH420 vectors. This resulted in a vector with a multiple cloning site (MCS) in the lacZ gene enabling us to perform blue-white colony selection. The pG106 and pG108 shuttle vectors are electro-transformable into E. coli, P. gingivalis, and B. thetaiotaomicron, where they are stable. We demonstrated that these vectors were suitable in these species for applications of molecular cloning including complementation and gene expression studies. Using the pG108 vector we complement the hcpR mutant strain of P. gingivalis and rescued its NO2 - sensitive phenotype. We also performed a gene expression study using the P-glow BS2 fluorescent reporter gene and the ahpC promoter in B. thetaiotaomicron.
Cardiopulmonary exercise testing in severe osteoarthritis: a crossover comparison of four exercise modalities *

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing is performed increasingly for cardiorespiratory fitness assessment and pre‐operative risk stratification. Lower limb osteoarthritis is a common comorbidity in surgical patients, meaning traditional cycle ergometry‐based cardiopulmonary exercise testing is difficult. The purpose of this study was to compare cardiopulmonary exercise testing variables and subjective responses in four different exercise modalities. In this crossover study, 15 patients with osteoarthritis scheduled for total hip or knee arthroplasty (mean (SD) age 68 (7) years; body mass index 31.4 (4.1) kg.m‐2) completed cardiopulmonary exercise testing on a treadmill, elliptical cross‐trainer, cycle and arm ergometer. Mean (SD) peak oxygen consumption was 20‐30% greater on the lower limb modalities (treadmill 21.5 (4.6) (p < 0.001); elliptical cross‐trainer (21.2 (4.1) (p < 0.001); and cycle ergometer (19.4 (4.2) ml.min−1.kg−1 (p = 0.001), respectively) than on the arm ergometer (15.7 (3.7) ml.min‐1.kg‐1). Anaerobic threshold was 25‐50% greater on the lower limb modalities (treadmill 13.5 (3.1) (p < 0.001); elliptical cross‐trainer 14.6 (3.0) (p < 0.001); and cycle ergometer 10.7 (2.9) (p = 0.003)) compared with the arm ergometer (8.4 (1.7) ml.min−1.kg−1). The median (95%CI) difference between pre‐exercise and peak‐exercise pain scores was greater for tests on the treadmill (2.0 (0.0‐5.0) (p = 0.001); elliptical cross‐trainer (3.0 (2.0‐4.0) (p = 0.001); and cycle ergometer (3.0 (1.0‐5.0) (p = 0.001)), compared with the arm ergometer (0.0 (0.0‐1.0) (p = 0.406)). Despite greater peak exercise pain, cardiopulmonary exercise testing modalities utilising the lower limbs affected by osteoarthritis elicited higher peak oxygen consumption and anaerobic threshold values compared with arm ergometry.
Plant Genetic Resources and Plant Improvement as Tools to Develop Sustainable Agriculture

Summary This paper addresses the current and future contributions of plant genetic resources and plant improvement to sustainable agriculture with reference to the activities of the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in association with national programmes in West Asia and North Africa. These regions constitute the primary centres of diversity of crops such as wheat, barley, chickpea and lentil. Genetic erosion is being curtailed by germplasm collection and preservation. Selection for low-input cultivars of barley is conducted under low input conditions, and new cultivars of lentil and barley are often intentionally heterogeneous to stabilize their performance in dry rainfed areas. The importance of genetic differences in the cultivars on subsequent crops in the rotation and on straw quality for livestock is under study. Insect pests and diseases contribute to yield instability. Because of the potential adverse impact of pesticides on the fragile ecosystems of the region, integrated control strategies based on agronomic management, host plant resistance, biological control agents and strategic use of selective insecticides are being developed.
Competitive Strategy and Performance of Exporting SMEs: An Empirical Investigation of the Impact of Their Export Information Search and Competencies

The SMEs‘ limited capacity to acquire information and use sources is a major factor explaining their low level of involvement and performance on export markets. Nonetheless, a small amount of applied research has been undertaken on this subject. We present the results of an inquiry into the impact of information search and competencies on the competitive strategy and export performance of 346 exporting manufacturing SMEs. The research model postulates that the performance of these SMEs is determined by their general competitive strategy, which in turn is explained by the ability of the business to acquire and manage foreign market information. The results of an analysis using a PLS method confirm three of the four hypotheses.
Association of Co-Exposure to Psychosocial Factors with Depression and Anxiety in Korean Workers.

INTRODUCTION This study assessed the association of co-exposure to psychosocial factors with depression and anxiety in Korean workers. METHODS All data were from the 2017 Korean Working Conditions Survey. RESULTS Males and females who perceived organizational injustice, hid their emotions at the workplace, felt they were paid inappropriately, and had no support from managers were more likely to report depression and anxiety. Males who reported long working hours, no ability to influence decisions, work pressure, and no ability to their apply own ideas at the workplace were more likely to report depression and anxiety. Co-exposure to greater number of psychosocial factors had stronger associations with depression and anxiety in men and women. CONCLUSION Employers should reduce depression and anxiety in their workers by providing comprehensive interventions that protect them from co-exposure to work stressors.
Injuries associated with electronic nicotine delivery systems: A systematic review

BACKGROUND Since its introduction on the market in 2007, the number of reports on injuries caused by the overheating, ignition, or explosion of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDSs) has increased significantly. These injuries appear to have different causes, the most important one being lithium-ion battery overheating to the point of ignition or explosion. METHODS A literature search for all relevant studies concerning ENDS-related traumatic injuries of all kinds was conducted, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses protocol. The search started with the first introduction of ENDSs in 2007 and ended February 2020. Articles included were reports on patients who sustained flame, chemical, or traumatic injuries of the skin, soft tissue, and/or bone, related to the use of ENDSs. RESULTS This systematic review includes 180 patients from 41 case series and reports, published between 2016 and 2020. The mean age was 30.8 years (range, 17–59 years) with an overall male predominance (168 of 180 patients, 93%). In most injuries, multiple anatomical sites were affected, with the thigh/lower limb being the most commonly injured area (77%) followed by the upper limb/hand (43%). Eighty-two patients (51%) required a surgical treatment, 70 patients (43%) were managed conservatively with dressings or ointments, and 9 patients (6%) underwent enzymatic debridement. Thirty-five percent of all patients underwent skin grafting. CONCLUSION Injuries from overheating, ignition, or explosion of ENDSs are an emerging, underreported, and underresearched issue. There is a need for increased regulation of ENDSs and improved surveillance of related injuries. Both health care providers and consumers should be made aware of the risks and be advised about how to safely handle these devices. In contrast to other articles, this systematic review includes all types of injuries related to ENDS overheating, ignition, and explosion. To our knowledge, this is the most extensive systematic review performed to date. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Review article, level III.