Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Are rare plant species less resistant than common ones to herbivores? A multi‐plant species study using above‐ and below‐ground generalist herbivores

Abstract Rare plant species are suggested to be less resistant to herbivores than common species. Their lower apparency and the fact that they often live in isolated populations, resulting in fewer herbivore encounters, might have led to the evolution of reduced defences. Moreover, their frequent lower levels of genetic diversity compared with common species could negatively affect their resistance against enemies. However, the hypothesis that plant resistance depends on plant regional and local rarity, independently of habitat and competitive and growth strategy, lacks evidence. To test this hypothesis, we assessed the performance and preference of one belowground and three aboveground generalist invertebrate herbivores from different taxonomic groups as indicators of plant resistance. Herbivores were fed a total of 62 regionally and locally rare and common plant species from Switzerland. We accounted for differences in a plant's growth and competitive strategy and habitat resource availability. We found that regionally and locally rare and common plant species did not generally differ in their resistance to most generalist herbivores. However, one herbivore species even performed better and preferred locally and regionally common plant species over rarer ones, indicating that common species are not more resistant, but tend to be less resistant. We also found that all herbivore species consistently performed better on competitive and large plant species, although different herbivore species generally preferred and performed better on different plant species. The latter indicates that the use of generalist herbivores as indicators of plant‐resistance levels can be misleading. Synthesis: Our results show that rare plant species are not inherently less resistant than common ones to herbivores. Instead, our results suggest that the ability of plants to allocate resources away from defence towards enhancing their competitive ability might have allowed plants to tolerate herbivory, and to become locally and regionally common.
Eugenol delays the onset of ouabain‐induced ventricular cardiac arrhythmias in guinea pigs

Eugenol is an aromatic compound used in the manufacture of medicines, perfumes, cosmetics and as an anaesthetic due to the ability of the drug to block the neuronal isoform of voltage‐gated Na+ channels (NaV). Some arrhythmias are associated with gain of function in the sodium current (INa) found in cardiomyocytes, and antiarrhythmic sodium channel blockers are commonly used in the clinical practice. This study sought to elucidate the potential mechanisms of eugenol's protection in the arrhythmic model of ouabain‐induced arrhythmias in guinea pig heart. Ex vivo arrhythmias were induced using 50 μM of ouabain. The antiarrhythmic properties of eugenol were evaluated in the ex vivo heart preparation and isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes. The compound's effects on cardiac sodium current and action potential using the patch‐clamp technique were evaluated. In all, eugenol decreased the ex vivo cardiac arrhythmias induced by ouabain. Furthermore, eugenol showed concentration dependent effect upon peak INa, left‐shifted the stationary inactivation curve and delayed the recovery from inactivation of the INa. All these aspects are considered to be antiarrhythmic. Our findings demonstrate that eugenol has antiarrhythmic activity, which may be partially explained by the ability of eugenol to change de biophysical properties of INa of cardiomyocytes.
Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Novel Regulators of the Scots Pine Stilbene Pathway

Abstract Stilbenes accumulate in Scots pine heartwood where they have important roles in protecting wood from decaying fungi. They are also part of active defense responses, and their production is induced by different (a)biotic stressors. The specific transcriptional regulators as well as the enzyme responsible for activating the stilbene precursor cinnamate in the pathway are still unknown. UV-C radiation was the first discovered artificial stress activator of the pathway. Here, we describe a large-scale transcriptomic analysis of pine needles in response to UV-C and treatment with translational inhibitors, both activating the transcription of stilbene pathway genes. We used the data to identify putative candidates for the missing CoA ligase and for pathway regulators. We further showed that the pathway is transcriptionally activated by phosphatase inhibitor, ethylene and jasmonate treatments, as in grapevine, and that the stilbene synthase promoter retains its inducibility in some of the tested conditions in Arabidopsis, a species that normally does not synthesize stilbenes. Shared features between gymnosperm and angiosperm regulation and partially retained inducibility in Arabidopsis suggest that pathway regulation occurs not only via ancient stress-response pathway(s) but also via species-specific regulators. Understanding which genes control the biosynthesis of stilbenes in Scots pine aids breeding of more resistant trees.
Predicting the Public Health Impact of Bivalent Vaccines and Nirmatrelvir-Ritonavir Against Coronavirus Disease 2019

Abstract Background Uptake of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) bivalent vaccines and the oral medication nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (Paxlovid) has remained low across the United States. Assessing the public health impact of increasing uptake of these interventions in key risk groups can guide further public health resources and policy and determine what proportion of severe COVID-19 is avertable with these interventions. Methods This modeling study used person-level data from the California Department of Public Health on COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, deaths, and vaccine administration from 23 July 2022 to 23 January 2023. We used a quasi-Poisson regression model calibrated to recent historical data to predict future COVID-19 outcomes and modeled the impact of increasing uptake (up to 70% coverage) of bivalent COVID-19 vaccines and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir during acute illness in different risk groups. Risk groups were defined by age (≥50, ≥65, ≥75 years) and vaccination status (everyone, primary series only, previously vaccinated). We predicted the number of averted COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths and number needed to treat (NNT). Results The model predicted that increased uptake of bivalent COVID-19 boosters and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (up to 70% coverage) in all eligible persons could avert an estimated 15.7% (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 11.2%–20.7%; NNT: 17 310) and 23.5% (95% UI, 13.1%–30.0%; NNT: 67) of total COVID-19–related deaths, respectively. In the high-risk group of persons ≥65 years old alone, increased uptake of bivalent boosters and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir could avert an estimated 11.9% (95% UI, 8.4%–15.1%; NNT: 2757) and 22.8% (95% UI, 12.7%–29.2%; NNT: 50) of total COVID-19–related deaths, respectively. Conclusions These findings suggest that prioritizing uptake of bivalent boosters and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir among older age groups (≥65 years) would be most effective (based on NNT) but would not address the entire burden of severe COVID-19.
Effect of tobacco usage on surgical site wound problems after primary total hip and total knee arthroplasty: A meta‐analysis

Abstract The meta‐analysis aims to assess and compare the effect of tobacco usage on surgical site wound problems (SSWPs) after primary total hip and total knee arthroplasty (PTH&TKA). Using dichotomous random‐ or fixed‐effects models, the outcomes of this meta‐analysis were examined, and the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was computed. Fifteen studies from 2001 to 2023 were enrolled for the present meta‐analysis including 560 819 personals with PTH&TKA. Smokers had significantly higher SSWPs (OR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.21–1.94, p < 0.001) compared with non‐smokers in personals with PTH&TKA. Current smokers had significantly higher SSWPs (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.40–1.80, p < 0.001) compared with non‐smokers in personals with PTH&TKA. Current smokers had significantly higher SSWPs (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.19–1.70, p < 0.001) compared with former smokers in personals with PTH&TKA. However, former smokers and non‐smokers had no significant difference in SSWPs (OR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.95–1.30, p = 19) in personals with PTH&TKA. The examined data revealed that in personals with PTH&TKA smokers had significantly higher SSWPs compared with non‐smokers, and current smokers had significantly higher SSWPs compared with non‐smokers and former smokers; however, former smokers and non‐smokers had no significant difference in SSWPs. Yet, attention should be implemented while relating to its values since some of the comparisons were made using a low number of selected studies.
VDR is an essential regulator of hair follicle regression through the progression of cell death

This study investigates the role of VDR in the progression of catagen, and demonstrates that aberrant regression that ectopically prevents cell death impairs hair follicle regeneration, emphasizing the significance of regression in tissue homeostasis. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) is essential for hair follicle homeostasis as its deficiency induces hair loss, although the mechanism involved remains unknown. Our research shows that, in Vdr-knockout mice, the hair cycle is halted during the catagen stage, preceding alopecia. In addition, in Vdr-knockout hair follicles, epithelial strands that normally regress during the catagen phase persist as “surviving epithelial strands. ” Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis suggests that these surviving epithelial strands are formed by cells in the lower part of the hair follicle. These findings emphasize the importance of the regression phase in hair follicle regeneration and establish VDR as a regulator of the catagen stage.
Splenic flexure mobilization and anastomotic leakage in anterior resection for rectal cancer: A multicentre cohort study

Background and objective: Some colorectal surgeons advocate routine splenic flexure mobilization (SFM) when performing anterior resection for rectal cancer to ensure a tension-free anastomosis. Meta-analyses of smaller studies suggest that this approach does not influence anastomotic leakage rates, but larger multicentre studies are needed to confirm the safety of a selective strategy. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of SFM on anastomotic leakage. Methods: This is a retrospective multicentre cohort study, comprising 1109 patients operated with anterior resection for rectal cancer in 2014–2018. Exposure was SFM, while anastomotic leakage within a year constituted the outcome. Stratified analyses were performed for type of mesorectal excision and surgical approach, as well as sensitivity analysis considering vascular tie placement. Multivariable Cox regression with hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) was employed to adjust for confounding, while multiple imputation was used for missing data. Results: SFM was performed in 381 patients (34.4%). Anastomotic leakage occurred in 83 (21.8%) and 123 (20.3%) patients operated with and without SFM, respectively. SFM was neither clearly detrimental nor beneficial regarding anastomotic leakage (adjusted HR = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.59–1.15), with no apparent differences for total or partial mesorectal excision and minimally invasive or open surgery. Concurrent high vascular ligation did not impact these results, and there was no evidence of interaction from centers with a more common use of SFM. Conclusions: SFM did not seem to influence the risk of anastomotic leakage after anterior resection for rectal cancer, regardless of type of mesorectal excision, use of minimally invasive surgery, or high vascular ligation.
Iron-deficiency anemia in relation to body mass index among Iraqi primigravida women

Anemia affects approximately half a billion women of reproductive age worldwide, with 31% of pregnant women in Iraq aged 15–49 years experiencing anemia. This condition is associated with increased risks of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, including stillbirths, miscarriages, prematurity, and low birth weight. This study investigated the correlation between iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) and body mass index (BMI) among primigravidae in Iraq. One hundred primiparous women in their third trimester were recruited from Baghdad Medical City Teaching Hospital and Teaching Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Karbala. Participants were categorized into four groups based on BMI: underweight (BMI < 18.5 kg/m^2), normal weight (BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m^2), overweight (BMI 25–29.9 kg/m^2), and obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m^2). Demographic and medical history data were collected from the participants, and hematological investigations were conducted to measure hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and serum ferritin levels. Statistical significance was determined at p<0.05. The study enrolled 100 primiparous women, including 10 underweight, 24 normal weight, 28 overweight, and 38 obese participants. Analysis revealed a significant decrease in Hb levels among obese individuals compared to the normal weight group. Moreover, a significant difference in serum ferritin levels was observed between the obese and the other three groups (underweight, normal weight, and overweight). The findings indicated an inverse correlation between high BMI and serum ferritin and Hb levels. The study concluded that anemia is more common in obese pregnant women compared to normal-weight women. Furthermore, it demonstrates varying trends of iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) in relation to the body mass index (BMI) of pregnant women.
Paradoxical Expression of R-10G-reactive Antigen in Human Testicular Embryonal Carcinoma

Thus far, several monoclonal antibodies directed against cell-surface carbohydrate antigens have been generated. Among them, R-10G reportedly reacts selectively with human embryonic stem and induced pluripotent stem cells, but not with embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells. However, EC cells derived from patients’ EC tumors may exhibit varying levels of R-10G-reactive antigen expression. Thus, we asked whether human EC tissues or germ cell tumor (GCT) tissues other than EC express R-10G-reactive antigen. To do so, we quantitatively analyzed R-10G-reactive antigen expression in 83 testicular GCT surgical specimens containing a total of 125 various GCT components. Accordingly, in all EC components examined, the EC cell plasma membrane was immunolabeled with R-10G, while most seminoma components were R-10G-negative. In non-seminomatous GCT (NSGCT) other than EC (non-EC NSGCT), R-10G-reactive antigen expression was variable, but signal distribution was focal, and the average intensity was weaker than that seen in EC. The percentages of R-10G-positive cells in these three groups varied with high statistical significance (p<0.001 for all combinations). These findings indicate that the R-10G-reactive antigen is preferentially expressed in human testicular EC tissues and, thus, could be used as a diagnostic marker for this malignancy.
Could various angulated implant depths affect the positional accuracy of digital impressions? An in vitro study.

PURPOSE The purpose of this in vitro investigation was to assess how implant depth could affect the three-dimensional positional accuracy of digital impressions made from angulated implants. MATERIALS AND METHODS Four modified maxillary models were printed and divided into four study groups. In each model, two angulated implant analogs were placed at the sites of the first premolar and first molar at four different depths of 1 (G1), 2 (G2), 3 (G3), and 4 (G4) mm from the models' edentate area. Scan bodies were connected to the analogs, and one operator made 10 full-arch scans for each master model using an intraoral scanner. Afterward, the marginal gingival part of all models was removed, and digital scans were performed for each model using a laboratory scanner to achieve a reference STL file as the control group. One-way ANOVA and Leven's tests were used to measure and compare the 3D distance deviations across research groups after the superimposing test and control scans. RESULTS A significant difference between research groups was revealed by trueness and precision analysis (p<.001). The trueness and precision results obtained for G1 and G4 were significantly better than those for G2 and G3 (p<.05). CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that implant depth could affect the digital implant impressions' 3D positional accuracy. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Lidar Remote Sensing of Forest Resources at the Scale of Management

Small-footprint imaging lidar systems now dominate much of forest remote sensing research and development and are being gradually integrated into operational inventory and monitoring at the scale of management. This Highlihgt article assesses developments in both sensors and algorithms. Specific areas addressed include the choice of analysis unit (grid cell, segment, or individual tree), canopy height model versus point-based analyses, the role of multiple returns and return intensity, and a comparison of common algorithms. Results from recent three-dimensional lidar visualizations are included.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of interventions to improve diagnosis and preventive therapy for paediatric tuberculosis in 9 sub-Saharan African countries: A modelling study

Background Over 1 million children aged 0 to 14 years were estimated to develop tuberculosis in 2021, resulting in over 200,000 deaths. Practical interventions are urgently needed to improve diagnosis and antituberculosis treatment (ATT) initiation in children aged 0 to 14 years and to increase coverage of tuberculosis preventive therapy (TPT) in children at high risk of developing tuberculosis disease. The multicountry CaP-TB intervention scaled up facility-based intensified case finding and strengthened household contact management and TPT provision at HIV clinics. To add to the limited health-economic evidence on interventions to improve ATT and TPT in children, we evaluated the cost-effectiveness of the CaP-TB intervention. Methods and findings We analysed clinic-level pre/post data to quantify the impact of the CaP-TB intervention on ATT and TPT initiation across 9 sub-Saharan African countries. Data on tuberculosis diagnosis and ATT/TPT initiation counts with corresponding follow-up time were available for 146 sites across the 9 countries prior to and post project implementation, stratified by 0 to 4 and 5 to 14 year age-groups. Preintervention data were retrospectively collected from facility registers for a 12-month period, and intervention data were prospectively collected from December 2018 to June 2021 using project-specific forms. Bayesian generalised linear mixed-effects models were used to estimate country-level rate ratios for tuberculosis diagnosis and ATT/TPT initiation. We analysed project expenditure and cascade data to determine unit costs of intervention components and used mathematical modelling to project health impact, health system costs, and cost-effectiveness. Overall, ATT and TPT initiation increased, with country-level incidence rate ratios varying between 0.8 (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 0.7 to 1.0) and 2.9 (95% UI, 2.3 to 3.6) for ATT and between 1.6 (95% UI, 1.5 to 1.8) and 9.8 (95% UI, 8.1 to 11.8) for TPT. We projected that for every 100 children starting either ATT or TPT at baseline, the intervention package translated to between 1 (95% UI, −1 to 3) and 38 (95% UI, 24 to 58) deaths averted, with a median incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of US$634 per disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted. ICERs ranged between US$135/DALY averted in Democratic of the Congo and US$6,804/DALY averted in Cameroon. The main limitation of our study is that the impact is based on pre/post comparisons, which could be confounded. Conclusions In most countries, the CaP-TB intervention package improved tuberculosis treatment and prevention services for children aged under 15 years, but large variation in estimated impact and ICERs highlights the importance of local context. Trial registration This evaluation is part of the TIPPI study, registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03948698).
More than just having fun! Understanding the experience of involvement in physical activity of adolescents living with cerebral palsy.

Purpose: To explore the experiences of involvement of adolescents living with cerebral palsy, and their parents, while participating in physical activity. Understanding involvement in physical activity may be used to guide future participation.Methods: Eight adolescents (mean age 13 years 11 months, SD 1 year 6 months) with cerebral palsy participated in a New Zealand-based high-level mobility programme (HLMP) focused on running skills, twice per week for 12 weeks. The adolescents and 12 parents were interviewed before, after the 12 weeks and 9-months following the HLMP. Guided by interpretative description, 38 interviews were coded, analysed, and interpreted.Results: Four themes were: "Turning up is not enough" ("There's no point being there if you're not involved"); "In it all the way", "Changes on a dime", and "What works for me. " Perceptions of involvement varied between adolescents and parents. Being "very involved" related to high levels of focus, concentration, effort; but not always enjoyment.Conclusions: Focusing on enjoyment as the key experience of involvement understates the complexity and dynamic nature of involvement. "Being involved" is not always easy and may not mean the absence of discomfort or effort. Optimising the individuals' involvement continuum during physical activity may be essential to promote lifelong participation.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONAdolescents living with cerebral palsy and their parents have differing perspective of involvement and utilise different strategies to encourage being and staying active.Teaching adolescents living with cerebral palsy about their involvement continuum and optimal level of involvement for each activity, context and environment could promote sustained participation.To ensure adolescents are "being involved" in physical activity, opportunities for engagement, motivation and persistence are important; enjoyment is a possible, but not essential attribute of involvement.Encouraging involvement in physical activity can be a source of family conflict from a young age therefore clinicians have a role as an essential supporter, motivator and educator.