DR. FAHEEM AHMAD, MD

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This study looked at how religious and spiritual practices affect the mental and physical health of American Muslims living in the Twin Cities. Researchers found that individuals who engaged more in religious activities had better overall well-being; specifically, those with higher religiosity scores reported better health habits and lower levels of anxiety and depression. For example, higher religiosity was linked to a 35% increase in health-promoting behaviors, while lower religiosity was associated with a 28% increase in depressive symptoms. Who this helps: This research helps Muslim patients and healthcare providers understand the importance of spiritual practices in promoting health and well-being.

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This study looked at how older adults feel about using virtual assistants, which are technology tools that can help them with daily activities and reduce feelings of loneliness. Researchers surveyed 104 seniors and found that trust and emotional comfort are key to whether these virtual assistants will be accepted and used regularly by them. This matters because understanding these attitudes can help design better technology that enhances the lives of older people. Who this helps: This helps older adults looking for companionship and assistance in their daily lives.

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This study looked at the effects of Nigeria's Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act on LGBTQ+ individuals. It found that the law contributes to stigma, violence, and poor mental health, with many facing significant barriers to healthcare. These issues lead to a lack of support and increased health risks for LGBTQ+ people in Nigeria, underscoring the need for public health initiatives that address these challenges and call for the law's repeal. Who this helps: This research benefits LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria and advocates working for their rights and well-being.

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This study focused on creating and testing two new chemical compounds derived from a type of molecule called pyrazole. They found that one of the compounds, named 3b, was effective in fighting bacteria and fungi, showing strong antibacterial effects against S. aureus and E. coli and antifungal effects against Candida species, with a minimum effective dose as low as 0.4 mg/mL. This discovery is important because it could lead to new treatments for infections that are becoming harder to treat due to resistance to existing drugs and for certain types of cancer. Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from drug-resistant infections and certain cancers.

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This study looked at how breastfeeding affects the gut bacteria of newborns and their resistance to antibiotics. The researchers found that while breast milk can introduce antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) to infants, it also contains substances that help beneficial bacteria thrive and reduce the growth of harmful, drug-resistant bacteria. This is important because understanding these effects can help develop strategies to protect newborns from infections and improve their health outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits newborns and their mothers, as well as healthcare providers working in pediatrics.

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This research focused on improving the detection and classification of glomerular crescent lesions, which are important markers of serious kidney damage. The researchers developed new computer models that performed well even when there wasn't much data to train on, achieving strong results in identifying and classifying these lesions. Specifically, their best models showed high accuracy when tested on different datasets, which is crucial for ensuring the tools are reliable in real-world situations. Who this helps: This helps doctors and pathologists identify serious kidney issues more effectively, improving patient care.

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This study looked at whether a special type of probiotics can help improve health and reduce frailty in people with osteoarthritis (OA). Over 14 weeks, 103 participants either took the probiotics or a placebo. The results showed that those on probiotics had reduced signs of frailty, lower levels of a marker related to gut health, less walking-related pain, and better strength and walking speed. Who this helps: This benefits patients with osteoarthritis who are struggling with frailty and related health issues.

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This study looked at whether low handgrip strength could indicate a higher risk of prostate cancer in older men in Europe using data from over 64,000 participants. While an initial analysis suggested a slight increase in prostate cancer risk with low grip strength, this link became unclear after considering other factors. The research found that low handgrip strength does not reliably predict prostate cancer risk, although it remains an important marker of overall health. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and health care providers assessing cancer risks in older male patients.

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This study focused on a protein called CARD9, which is important for the immune system in fighting off infections. Researchers discovered a new version of this protein, called CARD9-N, which operates differently from the original CARD9. Specifically, CARD9-N lacks certain parts that typically help it function properly, but it may still activate immune responses, suggesting that understanding these differences could lead to new insights into how our immune system works and how it can be managed in diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients with immune-related disorders.

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This study looked at how exposure to cold temperatures affects the brain and behavior of rodents. It found that cold stress can disrupt important bodily functions, leading to problems in how neurons work and affecting mental health. The review suggests that using plant-based treatments could help improve brain recovery and reduce the negative effects of cold stress. Who this helps: This helps patients who may experience mental health issues related to extreme cold conditions.

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This study explored how a substance called pristimerin (PS) affects cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), a type of skin cancer. Researchers found that pristimerin significantly reduced cancer cell growth and caused cells to die in a way that depended on increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cells, meaning it used a natural process to disrupt their survival. They noted that pristimerin worked even better when combined with another drug, bortezomib, showing promise for improving treatment options for patients with this condition. Who this helps: This helps patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma by providing new potential treatment options.

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This study examined how two types of immune cells, dendritic cells and B cells, behave in a mouse model of psoriasis, a skin disease. Researchers found that dendritic cells increased significantly within three days of treatment, showing their role in starting inflammation; meanwhile, B cells grew in number by day seven, indicating their involvement in ongoing inflammation. This matters because understanding these immune responses could lead to new treatments for psoriasis. Who this helps: This research benefits patients suffering from psoriasis by potentially guiding more effective therapies.

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This study looked at how effective a surgery called laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM), performed with another procedure called Dor fundoplication, is for patients with a condition called achalasia cardia. The researchers found that after the surgery, the average size of the esophagus decreased significantly from about 32.57 mm to 20.76 mm, and the pressure in the esophagus dropped from 27.29 mmHg to 15.05 mmHg, both changes indicating better function (with very strong statistical support). Additionally, patients reported a drastic improvement in their quality of life, with scores indicating symptoms dropping from 6.05 to 0.86 one year after the surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients suffering from achalasia cardia by improving their overall symptoms and quality of life.

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This study looked at how a treatment called 4-Phenylbutyrate (4-PBA) affects kidney problems caused by a lack of movement in mice. Researchers found that when mice experienced hindlimb unloading, they suffered significant kidney damage due to stress on their cells, but 4-PBA helped reduce this damage. Specifically, 4-PBA lowered the harmful signs of stress in the kidneys, suggesting it could be a useful treatment for kidney issues related to being inactive or in low-gravity situations. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with kidney disease and those who undergo long periods of immobilization, such as astronauts.

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This study looked at how a technique called Axillary Reverse Mapping (ARM) could help prevent lymphedema, a swelling condition, in breast cancer patients after they have surgery known as modified radical mastectomy (MRM). They found that patients who had ARM removed fewer lymph nodes (11.42) compared to those who didn’t use ARM (12.67), and those with ARM had less arm swelling at follow-up appointments. Although ARM helps reduce the severity of lymphedema, it doesn't completely stop it, and doctors need to choose the right patients to see the benefits. Who this helps: Patients recovering from breast cancer surgery.

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This study looked at how new AI technology can improve the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. Researchers reviewed 43 recent studies and found that combining different types of data, like facial images and brain scans, produced more accurate diagnoses than using just one type of data. While the AI methods show promise for speeding up and lowering the cost of diagnoses, there are still big concerns about how consistently these tools can produce reliable results. Who this helps: This benefits children being diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how well Pakistan's healthcare system can manage patients dealing with both tuberculosis (TB) and depression. Researchers visited 15 TB centers and spoke with healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers to understand the challenges these patients face. They found that many patients are afraid and distressed, and that the healthcare providers have a tough working environment, which makes it harder to offer the personalized care needed for those with both conditions. Improving mental health support and training for providers could greatly help these patients. Who this helps: Patients with TB and depression in Pakistan.

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This study looked at how mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplants can help protect the testicles of male mice exposed to conditions similar to those in space, which can cause infertility. The researchers found that MSC treatment significantly improved testicular structure, indicated by a larger tubular diameter and taller epithelial height, and reversed harmful molecular changes caused by prolonged immobility. These findings suggest MSC transplants could be an effective treatment to counteract infertility related to long-duration space travel. Who this helps: This helps male astronauts and could also benefit men experiencing infertility due to prolonged bed rest or inactivity.

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This study looked at a specific type of wrist fracture called distal radius volar shear fractures, using CT scans to get a better understanding of their characteristics. Researchers found that 70% of these fractures had dorsal (back) surface involvement, and CT imaging led to changes in classification for nearly half of the cases initially assessed. This information matters because it helps doctors develop more targeted treatment plans for different fracture types based on their complexity. Who this helps: Patients with wrist fractures and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how microplastics (tiny plastic particles) can affect the spread of pathogens (germs) and increase disease risk in different environments. Researchers found that microplastics can carry harmful bacteria and may make infections easier by damaging the body’s defenses and disrupting natural bacteria balance, though direct evidence of infections caused by microplastics is limited. This is important because it highlights the need for better understanding and monitoring of microplastics to protect both ecosystems and human health. Who this helps: This helps patients, environmental scientists, and public health officials.

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This study looked at how the structure of the heart changes from birth to adulthood in pigs. Researchers found that the left ventricle has a more developed structure compared to the right, and as pigs age, their hearts show more variation and rotation in the heart cells and supporting fibers. Specifically, younger hearts had a higher measure of fiber alignment, but this decreased as they matured. Understanding these changes is important for building accurate models that can help develop better heart-related treatments. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors, bioengineers, and researchers working on heart health and therapies.

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This study looked at the dangers of antibiotics and antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes in the environment, especially in wastewater treatment plants and reclaimed water used for irrigation. Researchers found that these resistant bacteria and genes are common in these areas and can spread to other microbes, including those that affect human health. Understanding how these resistance genes move and survive is crucial for tackling the problem and protecting both the environment and public health. Who this helps: This benefits patients, doctors, and environmental health policymakers.

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This study looked at how low protein intake affects physical strength and ability in older adults, analyzing data from over 38,000 people aged 50 and over across 27 European countries. Researchers found that men aged 50-65 with low protein intake were 39% more likely to have weak handgrip strength, and older women had a 21% higher risk. Additionally, women aged 50-65 had more than double the chance of having trouble with basic tasks like using the toilet. Who this helps: This research benefits older adults, particularly women and those caring for them.

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This study looked at how Afghan and Syrian refugee women in Houston feel about breast cancer screenings and the challenges they face in getting screened. It found that Syrian women have a more positive outlook on screenings, with greater awareness about breast cancer and fewer obstacles compared to Afghan women. Specifically, Syrian women scored higher in all areas measured, indicating that cultural background and healthcare access significantly influence attitudes toward breast cancer screenings. Who this helps: This information benefits refugee women and healthcare providers by highlighting the need for tailored support and education.

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This study looked at how common diabetic retinopathy is among people with type-2 diabetes in Pakistan. Researchers found that about 32.9% of these patients have the condition, which can lead to blindness. The prevalence varies by region, with the highest rates in Balochistan at 54.65%, highlighting a growing problem over time—up from 21.32% in 2001-2009 to 39.59% in 2020-2025. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with type-2 diabetes and healthcare providers by emphasizing the need for regular eye screenings to prevent vision loss.

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This study looked at a new approach to quickly diagnose patients with chest pain that might be related to heart issues. Researchers found that patients who went directly for a CT heart scan (CTCA) had their diagnosis made in about 29 days, compared to 88 days using the traditional method. This new approach not only speeds up diagnosis but also reduces the number of unnecessary doctor visits and saves an estimated £32,620 each year. Who this helps: This benefits patients experiencing chest pain and healthcare providers by streamlining the diagnostic process.

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This study focused on a genetic mutation linked to Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, a condition that can cause heart problems. Researchers found that heart cells from patients with this mutation had reduced ability to produce energy and accumulated excess fat and sugars, leading to heart dysfunction. They also discovered that treating these cells with metformin, a diabetes drug, helped reduce some of these issues and manage heart rhythm problems. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and their doctors by offering insights into potential treatment options.

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This research paper looks at the impact of plant viruses on agriculture in Saudi Arabia, highlighting how these viruses lead to over $30 billion in losses worldwide. It reviews seven decades of research, identifying about 81 types of plant viruses that affect 46 different crops, especially noting that around 70% of these are single-stranded RNA viruses that can severely damage key crops like tomatoes and cucumbers. The study discusses new techniques for managing these viruses, such as using advanced technology and innovative methods, and emphasizes the need for better monitoring and collaboration to protect agriculture as Saudi Arabia aims for greater self-sufficiency. Who this helps: This benefits farmers, agricultural researchers, and officials in charge of food security.

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This study looks at how tiny fluctuations in gas reactions can affect the performance of detectors used in scientific experiments. Researchers found that at high electricity levels (over 250 kV/cm Torr), the fluctuations stabilize between 0.3 and 0.5, meaning detectors become more reliable. Understanding these fluctuations is important because it helps improve the design of eco-friendly gas mixtures for detectors used in places like the Large Hadron Collider, ensuring they work better in high-radiation environments. Who this helps: This helps scientists and engineers working with detectors in high-energy physics.

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This study is examining a new training tool called the E-Patient Quality Improvement and Standardisation (EQIS) platform to improve healthcare for mothers and children in Bangladesh. Researchers are working with doctors at five hospitals, training them through online simulations to enhance their skills and patient care. They will monitor changes in doctors' performance scores over two years and assess how patient satisfaction and treatment costs change as a result. Who this helps: This helps patients, particularly mothers and children receiving medical care.

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This study looked at how self-reported difficulties with movement, like walking and climbing stairs, relate to the risk of osteoarthritis (OA) in older adults in Europe. Researchers found that among those who reported motor difficulties, 28.4% also reported having OA, compared to only 10.8% of those without such difficulties, indicating that problems with movement significantly increase the likelihood of having OA by 17.1 percentage points. These results emphasize the strong connection between mobility issues and osteoarthritis, which is important for understanding and addressing health in aging populations. Who this helps: This helps older adults and their healthcare providers understand the risk factors for osteoarthritis to develop better management and prevention strategies.

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This study examined the complex signaling pathways involved in pancreatic cancer, particularly focusing on mutations in the KRAS gene, which are found in about 90% of pancreatic cancer cases. It found that these signaling networks interact in ways that often make treatments less effective due to resistance mechanisms, and highlighted the need for better-targeted therapies that consider the specific types of KRAS mutations. Understanding these interactions could lead to new approaches to improving treatment outcomes for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with pancreatic cancer and their doctors, providing insights for more effective treatment options.

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This study looked at how probiotics could help improve muscle strength and physical performance in patients with Alzheimer's disease. After four months of taking a probiotic supplement, patients showed better handgrip strength and walking speed, and there was a decrease in a substance that indicates gut issues. This is important because it suggests that improving gut health can lead to better physical abilities in these patients, which can enhance their quality of life. Who this helps: This helps patients with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

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This study looked at a compound called carpachromene from a medicinal plant in the Himalayas to see how well it can fight bacteria and fungi. Researchers found that carpachromene can strongly inhibit the growth of certain pathogens, showing inhibition zones of up to 21 mm against bacteria and 10 mm against fungi, which suggests it's a promising candidate for new antibiotics. This is important because it could lead to new treatments for infections that are resistant to current drugs. Who this helps: This helps patients struggling with antibiotic-resistant infections.

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This study focuses on creating a new type of facial mask using banana fibers and a substance called chitosan to improve skin hydration and protection for people with sensitive and dry skin. The researchers found that masks made with a higher concentration of chitosan and more banana fibers showed significant improvements in strength, water absorption, and moisture management, reaching up to 79.01 N strength and 298.76% water absorbency. These findings are important because they indicate that this new mask could offer better hydration and skin protection, making it beneficial for those with sensitive skin. Who this helps: This helps patients with sensitive and dry skin seeking effective skincare solutions.

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This study looked at the spread of scrub typhus, a disease caused by bacteria transmitted through bites from infected chiggers. Researchers collected 95 small mammals in Pahang, Malaysia, and found that 65% were infested with chiggers, with some chigger samples showing the presence of the bacteria in 6.9% of cases. This matters because it identifies Pahang as a hotspot for scrub typhus, which could help in targeting prevention efforts and protecting human health. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and public health officials working to reduce scrub typhus cases.

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This study looked at achromatopsia, a rare genetic disorder where people can't see colors and often have poor vision and sensitivity to light. Researchers examined 15 affected individuals from five families and found four new harmful genetic changes that can cause this condition. Understanding these genetic variants is important because it can help develop future treatments and tailor medical care for patients with achromatopsia. Who this helps: This helps patients with achromatopsia and their families.

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This study focused on creating and testing a new nanocomposite made of Nickel Sulfide (NiS) and Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) to efficiently break down harmful dye pollutants in water. The researchers found that their optimized NiS-ZnS mixture could remove 98% of a specific dye, called crystal violet, in just 60 minutes when exposed to visible light, which is significantly more effective than other compounds. This matters because it offers a sustainable method for cleaning up industrial wastewater, making water safer and less toxic. Who this helps: This helps patients and communities affected by industrial pollution.

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This study looked at Fournier's gangrene, a serious infection, in patients at a hospital in Indonesia over ten years. Researchers found that out of 119 patients, the average age was 54, and older patients had more health problems. The mortality rate was very high, with 95% of patients with a severe condition score dying, and even 77% of those with lower scores did not survive. This is important because it shows how critical early diagnosis and proper treatment plans are for this dangerous infection, especially in older patients who may have other health issues. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers treating patients with Fournier's gangrene.

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This study examines how climate change may worsen sarcopenia, which is the gradual loss of muscle mass and strength often seen in older adults. It found that factors like extreme heat, air pollution, and food insecurity can damage muscles, making the problem worse for older people, especially women and those living in certain regions. The findings highlight the importance of addressing climate change to protect muscle health and improve care for aging populations. Who this helps: This research benefits older adults, healthcare providers, and policymakers focused on public health.

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This study looked at how recycled non-metallic printed circuit board waste can be used to make stronger mortar for construction. Researchers found that by mixing 5% silica fume, 5% marble powder, and 3% recycled PCB waste, they achieved a compressive strength of 17.6 MPa, marking a significant improvement and showing the potential for using waste materials. This is important because it helps address environmental concerns related to landfill waste and the shortage of natural sand. Who this helps: This benefits construction companies looking for sustainable materials and practices.

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This study examined the effects of a natural compound called sanguinarine on cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), a rare cancer with few effective treatments. The researchers found that sanguinarine can significantly reduce the survival of CTCL cells and induce cell death by disrupting mitochondrial function and increasing damaging molecules known as reactive oxygen species (ROS). Specifically, at concentrations lower than 5 micromolar, sanguinarine triggered cancer cell death and worked even better when combined with the drug bortezomib. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma by providing a potential new treatment option.

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This research paper looks at using CRISPR-Cas9, a powerful tool for editing genes, to make cancer cells die by turning on their self-destruct mechanisms. The study discusses how CRISPR can be designed to target specific genes that help cancer cells survive and grow. This method could offer a new way to treat cancer more effectively, and understanding it now could lead to better therapies in the future. Who this helps: This helps patients with cancer by providing new treatment options.

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This study looked at how rhesus macaques in the Hindu Raj Mountains of Pakistan interact with humans and their environment. Researchers found that around 29.3% of the area is suitable for both macaques and human activity, with major conflict risks in specific regions like Matta, Khwazakhela, and Charbagh, where human presence is high. Understanding these patterns is crucial for developing effective strategies to protect both the macaques and the local communities, allowing them to coexist better. Who this helps: This helps local communities and wildlife conservationists.

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This study looks at ways to improve the removal of pharmaceutical waste from water, which can harm both the environment and human health. Researchers found that using advanced materials, known as smart adsorbents, can effectively capture and break down these harmful drugs. For example, they highlighted methods that combine traditional adsorption with catalysis to transform pharmaceuticals into less toxic substances. Who this helps: This benefits patients, healthcare providers, and environmental agencies by reducing pharmaceutical pollutants in water supplies.