Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Impaired nonverbal working memory in high‐functioning autism spectrum disorder

Background: Past studies have documented working memory impairment in participants with high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders (IQ>70), but inconsistent findings have been reported. One possibility is the existence of verbal responses in the evaluation of working memory performance. The aim of the current study is to examine the working memory performance and its correlation with a prominent deficit in participants with high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders by non-verbal working memory tasks compared with typically developing samples. Methods: The current study is a cross-sectional, comparative study. The working memory performance of the 30 participants with high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders (7-16 years) and 30 typically developing was compared by working memory subtests of the Leiter International Performance Scale-Revised in Tehran, Iran. Two groups were matched for age and gender. ANOVA, ANCOVA, repeated measures ANOVA and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were used to analyze the data statistically. The significance value was set at p<0.05. Results: The results showed that if the effect of FSIQ (full-scale intelligence quotient) were controlled individuals with highfunctioning Autism Spectrum Disorders exhibited significant impairment in the Reverse Memory subtest (p=0.001). Also, unpredictably Forward Memory (r=0.38, p=0.03) and Reverse Memory tasks (r=0.38, p=0.03) displayed a significant positive correlation with the Social interaction subscale of the Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (Second Edition). Conclusion: It seems that nonverbal working memory is impaired in persons with high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders. Results of the current study revealed that factors like complexity and cognitive load of tasks may influence working memory performance in individuals with high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide improves rat DSS-induced colitis by altering cecal microbiota and gene expression of colonic epithelial cells

Background The effects of β-glucan on colitis mice are contradictory in previous reports. As a result, it is still unclear whether there is an anti-colitis effect in Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP), which is mainly composed of β-glucan. Moreover, the association between GLP function and gut microbiota remains to be elucidated. Objective This study aimed to investigate whether GLP consumption improved rat dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis by regulating gut microbiota and altering colonic epithelial expression. Design The disease activity index (DAI) scores and the cecal short chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels of DSS-induced colitis rats fed with a GLP diet (Group GLP, n = 6) and a control diet (Group Con, n = 6) were investigated and analyzed. Moreover, the profiles of gut microbiota and colonic epithelial expression were analyzed using metagenomics and transcriptomics. Results GLP consumption significantly lowered animal DAI scores by producing more SCFAs by increasing SCFA-producing bacteria such as Ruminococcus_1 and reducing pathogens such as Escherichia-Shigella in both the small intestine and cecum of rat. Moreover, GLP consumption regulated 11 genes, including six upregulated (Ccl5, Cd3e, Cd8a, Il21r, Lck, and Trbv) and five downregulated (Ccl3, Gro, Il11, Mhc2, and Ptgs) genes enriched in six inflammation-related Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, resulting in enhancement of immunity and reduction of inflammatory response and colonic cancer risk. Conclusions GLP consumption alleviated DSS-induced colitis and may have potential for ulcerative colitis relief.
Genetic risk factors for eating disorders: an update and insights into pathophysiology

Genome-wide-association studies (GWASs), epigenetic, gene-expression and gene–gene interaction projects, nutritional genomics and investigations of the gut microbiota have increased our knowledge of the pathophysiology of eating disorders (EDs). However, compared with anorexia nervosa, genetic studies in patients with bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder are relatively scarce, with the exception of a few formal genetic and small-sized candidate–gene-association studies. In this article, we review important findings derived from formal and molecular genetics in order to outline a genetics-based pathophysiological model of EDs. This model takes into account environmental and nutritional factors, genetic factors related to the microbiome, the metabolic and endocrine system, the immune system, and the brain, in addition to phenotypical traits of EDs. Shortcomings and advantages of genetic research in EDs are discussed against the historical background, but also in light of potential future treatment options for patients with EDs.
Proniosomal gel-mediated topical delivery of fluconazole: Development, in vitro characterization, and microbiological evaluation

The aim of this study was to explore the potential of proniosomal gel for topical delivery of fluconazole, an antifungal drug used in fungal infections caused by pathogenic fungi. Fluconazole-loaded proniosomal gels were prepared by the coacervation phase separation method using different nonionic surfactants (spans and tweens). The prepared fluconazole proniosomal gels were evaluated for various parameters such as particle size (PS), drug entrapment efficiency percentage (EE%), and in vitro drug release. The experimental results showed that the EE% for the prepared formulae are acceptable (85.14%–97.66%) and they are nanosized (19.8–50.1 nm) and the diffusion from the gels gave the desired sustaining effect. F4, which was prepared from span 60, tween 80 (1:1), and cholesterol showed highest EE% and gave slow release (40.50% ± 1.50% after 6 h), was subjected to zeta potential (ZP) test, transmission electron microscopy as well as microbiological study. The results showed a well-defined spherical vesicle with sharp boundaries with good physical stability of fluconazole within the prepared gel. Moreover, F4 showed an excellent microbiological activity represented by a greater zone of inhibition (5.3 cm) compared to control gel (fluconazole in 2% hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) gel formula) (4.2 cm) and plain gel with no drug (0 cm) against Candida albicans. This study showed the suitability of the proniosomal gel in attaining the desired sustainment effect for topical delivery of fluconazole for the management of fungal infection. The physical stability study showed that there was no significant change in EE%, PS, and ZP of fluconazole proniosomal gel after storage for 6 months.
Segmental Power Analysis of Sequential Body Motion and Elbow Valgus Loading During Baseball Pitching: Comparison Between Professional and High School Baseball Players

Background: Pitching-related elbow injuries remain prevalent across all levels of baseball. Elbow valgus torque has been identified as a modifiable risk factor of injuries to the ulnar collateral ligament in skeletally mature pitchers. Purpose: To examine how segmental energy flow (power) influences elbow valgus torque and ball speed in professional versus high school baseball pitchers. Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Methods: A total of 16 professional pitchers (mean age, 21.9 ± 3.6 years) and 15 high school pitchers (mean age, 15.5 ± 1.1 years) participated in marker-based motion analysis of baseball pitching. Ball speed, maximum elbow valgus torque (MEV), temporal parameters, and mechanical power of the trunk, upper arm, and forearm were collected and compared using parametric statistical methods. Results: Professional pitchers threw with a higher ball speed (36.3 ± 2.9 m/s) compared with high school pitchers (30.4 ± 3.5 m/s) (P = .001), and MEV was greater in professional pitchers (71.3 ± 20.0 N·m) than in high school pitchers (50.7 ± 14.6 N·m) (P = .003). No significant difference in normalized MEV was found between groups (P = .497). Trunk rotation time, trunk power, and upper arm power combined to predict MEV (r = 0.823, P < .001), while trunk rotation time and trunk power were the only predictors of ball speed (r = 0.731, P < .001). There were significant differences between the professional and high school groups in the timing of maximum pelvis rotation velocity (42.9 ± 9.7% of the pitching cycle [%PC] vs 27.9 ± 23.4 %PC, respectively; P < .025), maximum trunk rotation (33 ± 16 %PC vs 2 ± 23 %PC, respectively; P = .001), and maximum shoulder internal rotation velocity (102.4 ± 8.9 %PC vs 93.0 ± 11.7 %PC, respectively; P = .017). Conclusion: The power of trunk motion plays a critical role in the development of elbow valgus torque and ball speed. Professional and high school pitchers do not differ in elbow torque relative to their respective size but appear to adopt different patterns of segmental motion. Clinical Relevance: Because trunk rotation supplies the power associated with MEV and ball speed, training methods aimed at core stabilization and flexibility may benefit professional and high school pitchers in reducing the injury risk and improving pitching performance.
OPTIMIZATION OF MILK TYPE AND PHYSICAL FACTORS FOR REDUCTION OF ALCOHOL CONTENT IN KEFIR

Milk kefir beverage has enormous health benefits. However, alcohol content in kefir may represent a barrier for some consumers, so this work attempts to reduce its alcohol content. Three main factors, i.e., the type of milk, inoculum size and incubation temperature were investigated. Results showed that cow’s milk inoculated with 2% kefir grains (KG) and incubated at 24oC for 48h had the lowest ethanol concentration (EC), however, ewe’s milk and soymilk contained the highest EC. According to EC in the previous experiment, buffalo’s, cow’s and goat’s milk were selected to prepare milk kefir. Cow’s milk kefir (CMK) had the lowest EC (0.062± 0.041), while, goat’s milk kefir (GMK) had the highest EC (0.093±0.021) at zero time. Moreover, buffalo’s milk kefir (BMK) had the highest pH, total solids, acetaldehyde, lactose and viscosity. Statistically, after 10 d BMK won the greatest Overall quality (5.825) while CMK came in the second place (5.355) then GMK (5.310).
Predicting Outcome after Total Hip Arthroplasty: The Role of Preoperative Patient-Reported Measures

Choosing the appropriate patient for surgery is crucial for good outcome in total hip arthroplasty (THA). Therefore, parameters predicting outcome preoperatively are of major interest. In the current study, we compared the predictive power of different presurgical measures in minimally invasive THA. In the course of a prospective clinical trial preoperative HOOS, EQ-5D and SF-36 were obtained in 140 patients undergoing THA. Responder rate was defined by the modified OMERACT-OARSI criteria at six-month-, one-year, two-year, and three-year follow-up. Logistic regression was performed to compare the different questionnaires regarding their power of predicting positive responders. ROC-curve analysis was used to define benchmarks in preoperative measures associated with good outcome. Preoperative HOOS (p<0.001), EQ-5D (p=0.007), and PCS of SF-36 (p<0.001) were higher in responders than in nonresponders whereas no differences between responders and nonresponders were found for preoperative MCS (p=0.96) of SF-36. However, preoperative HOOS revealed best predictive power (OR=0.84 95%CI=0.78-0.90, p<0.001, Pseudo R-Squared according to Nagelkerke=0.48, effect size according to Cohen=0.96) compared to all other preoperative measures. Multivariable analysis confirmed preoperative HOOS as an independent parameter correlating with postoperative responder status (OR=0.76, 95% CI=0.66–0.88, p<0.001). In ROC-curve analysis nonresponders were identified with a sensitivity of 91.7% and specificity of 68.9% using a cutoff in preoperative HOOS of 40.3. Presurgical HOOS can predict outcome in THA better than other preoperative outcome measures. Patients with a preoperative HOOS value less than 40.3 have the highest probability of a positive response in terms of pain and function after THA.
Drawdown flushing in a chain of reservoirs—Effects on grayling populations and implications for sediment management

Abstract We used an information theoretic approach to assess the effects of an ecologically adjusted sediment management scheme on grayling (Thymallus thymallus L. 1758) populations. Additionally to reservoir operation, candidate models included a variety of parameters and processes that may influence grayling populations such as flow, temperature, density dependence, and bird predation. Population parameters analyzed included total densities, young of the year numbers, and larval densities. These analyses were supplemented by a characterization of sediments and sedimentation patterns in the reach. Investigations were carried out in six sites affected by flushing and in one control site. A total of thirteen flushing operations have been undertaken within the study period leading to considerable remobilization of fine sediments and gravel. Due to seasonal and hydrological restrictions, not every flood could be used for flushing. These limitations led to an interrupted management throughout the chain of reservoirs as well as to long time intervals between flushing events with possible effects on spawning habitat quality. None of the investigated population parameters was affected by flushing, and thus, the study generally supports the current reservoir management scheme. Our analyses revealed the magnitude and timing of high water events, temperature, and density‐dependent effects, that is, population densities the year before, as the most influential variables for grayling population dynamics in the investigated stretch. The siltation of reservoirs is a significant problem for reservoir storage, flood protection, river deltas, and coastal zones. Its management—which is inevitable to safeguard river deltas and secure flood protection—poses also the challenge to safeguard riverine ecosystems below reservoirs. Based on our experience, we propose a periodic flushing regime in concordance with the hydrograph thereby mimicking the timing, magnitude, frequency, and duration of natural SSC pulses and gravel transport. This flushing regime minimizes adverse downstream environmental impacts and maximizes benefits.
The Influence of Facial Muscle Training on the Facial Soft Tissue Profile: A Brief Review

In this review, we summarize recent literature investigating facial-exercise-induced changes in facial soft tissue. A literature search was performed in PubMed for the terms facial exercise, rejuvenation, muscle, skin, and aging. Four studies were identified from the search and were subject to further assessment. Four studies were included in our analysis. Two of the four studies included compared the experimental (training) group to a control group. The other two studies had no control group. The participants were mainly middle-aged women. Training conditions varied; neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) was used in two studies, the other two studies used an oscillatory movement device and voluntary facial isometric exercise. Two studies measured facial muscle size using ultrasonography before and after 12 weeks of NMES or 8 weeks of oscillatory movement of the face. One study assessed the changes in facial skin elasticity in a single group following 8 weeks of facial isometric exercise, while one study measured strength of labial and lingual muscles before and following 4 weeks of NMES. We found two studies that reported facial-exercise-induced increases in facial muscle size in middle-aged women. It was also reported that facial skin function may improve following facial isometric exercise. Future research is needed to clarify how these changes link with facial rejuvenation. Compared to extremity muscles, the facial muscles are small in size, their shapes are complex, and the boundaries with other tissues may be unclear. Future study is also necessary to examine the reliability of measurements of the facial muscles.
Downregulation of HDGF inhibits the tumorigenesis of bladder cancer cells by inactivating the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway

Background Hepatoma-derived growth factor (HDGF) is a heparin-binding protein that has been observed to be abnormally expressed in numerous malignancies, but the definite role of HDGF in bladder cancer (BCa) has not been clarified. Here, we conduct the present study to evaluate correlations between HDGF and BCa. Methods Bioinformatics analysis was used to evaluate HDGF expression levels in BCa tissues. The effect of HDGF on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, cell cycle and apoptosis was analyzed utilizing CCK-8, clone formation, Transwell assays and flow cytometry, respectively. In addition, the xenograft tumor model was established. Results Based on bioinformatics analysis, we noticed that HDGF was highly expressed in BCa tissues and was positively correlated with poor prognosis in patients. Knockdown of HDGF markedly reduced tumorigenesis in BCa cells. Furthermore, the results of flow cytometry showed that HDGF deletion enhanced apoptosis in T24 and 253J cells and led to cell cycle arrest in G1 phase. In further studies, we found that tumor growth was inhibited in xenograft nude mouse models with HDGF deletion. The results of RNA-seq analysis revealed that the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway-related genes were obviously changed in HDGF-deficient 253J cells, and this result was further confirmed by Western blot analysis. Conclusion In summary, we suggest that HDGF plays a substantial role in BCa and promotes tumor development and progression by regulating the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, which provides a promising target for BCa treatment.
The effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus as a probiotic against Pseudomonas aeruginosa growth and biofilm formation

The emergence of antibiotic-resistant biofilm producing microorganisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa has pushed efforts to find safe alternatives to antibiotics; such as probiotics. Lactobacilli are one of these promising probiotics, with reported antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against many different pathogenic microorganisms. This study aimed to study the potential antibacterial and anti-biofilm effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356, against the growth and biofilm formation of pathogenic P. aeruginosa. Cell free supernatant of L. acidophilus was tested to inhibit the growth; biofilm formation, and on preformed biofilms by 35 different clinical strains of P. aeruginosa, using agar well diffusion and microtitre plate assays. L. acidophilus ATCC 4356 recorded powerful growth inhibition against 88.6% of the P. aeruginosa strains. Moreover; it significantly inhibited biofilm formation of the strains by 68.52%, and removed already preformed biofilms with 43.8 % activity. Finally; L. acidophilus showed a potent inhibitory potential against the growth and biofilm formation by P. aeruginosa strains, thus could be used as a powerful probiotic for the bio-control of infections caused by antibiotic resistant and biofilm producing P. aeruginosa.
Wet Lab–Based Cataract Surgery Training Curriculum for the PGY 2/PGY 3 Ophthalmology Resident

Introduction Studies have shown that structured cataract surgery training curricula are beneficial for resident surgeons-in-training, yet nearly one-third of US training programs do not have one, and public dissemination of said curricula are lacking. Methods We created a microsurgical simulation center and accompanying structured training curriculum. Weekly lectures focused on the steps of cataract surgery, variations on technique, and complications. Each didactic was followed by a 1.5- to 2-hour time block with faculty supervision in the wet lab. Finally, to demonstrate proficiency, residents submitted a recorded video illustrating their competency within 1 week of the lecture. We reviewed videos and provided written feedback via a standardized form. Curriculum effectiveness was evaluated through formative feedback on the course itself and complication rates for resident-performed cataract surgery before and after implementation of the curriculum. Results The course was implemented in 4 consecutive academic years, allowing time for nine junior residents to participate in the course at least once before operating as a senior. The incidence of posterior capsule tears for senior residents decreased from 3.07% in the 4 years preceding curriculum implementation to 1.13% for the senior residents who completed the course at least once as juniors (p = .0571). Supervised wet lab sessions and submitted videos allowed faculty to identify surgically struggling residents early. Discussion Implementation of a cataract surgery training curriculum for junior ophthalmology residents provides a safe and effective environment to practice surgical techniques. Such a curriculum may decrease the complication rates of beginner surgeons.
Phosphorus affects storage root yield of cassava through root numbers

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the effect of phosphorus applied through fertigation on growth and root yield of cassava. This was achieved through a greenhouse pot-experiment consisting of 1, 4, 7, 10, 20 and 30 mg P L−1. Increasing P from 1 to 30 mg P L−1 realized a 57.1 and 150.0% increase in leaf blade P in 2014 and 2015, respectively. Similarly, chlorophyll content and shoot growth increased as P concentration in solution increased. However, leaf stomatal conductance and net photosynthesis reached a maximum in 7 and 20 mg P L−1 in 2014 and 2015, respectively. This trend of stomatal conductance and net photosynthesis was consistent with that of dry root yield and storage roots numbers. Regressing dry root yield against storage root numbers showed that R2 = 0.80. Phosphorus encourages formation of storage roots and the duration of cassava’s growth affects the amount of P required for maximum root yield.
Setting Students Up for Success: A Short Interactive Workshop Designed to Increase Effective Study Habits

Introduction Research shows that students generally utilize ineffective learning techniques such as massed practice and rereading. We developed an interactive workshop to teach first-year medical students highly effective learning techniques. Students often believe they know what works best for themselves. To impart effective strategies, we must disprove any current ineffective strategies. During the workshop, we employ activities designed to keep students engaged and reveal flaws in common study practices. Methods The workshop occurred during the first week of an integrated basic science course that provides a foundation for our integrated curriculum. In addition to presenting evidence supporting effective techniques, we also realized a practical aspect that needed to be addressed—the limited time available to medical students. Thus, we concluded the workshop by distilling principles into approaches they could immediately put into practice—before, during, and after lecture. Focusing on the most effective techniques made the approaches more palatable to students facing vast quantities of preparatory material. Results A postworkshop survey requested feedback for improvement and also included a table allowing students to indicate their interest and help needed for implementing each technique. This gave our Director of Academic Success invaluable insight as she developed additional workshops for first-year students. Discussion Although study skills workshops are commonplace, this module is distinct in that it forces students to evaluate the effectiveness of their learning strategies and provides scaffolding for adopting highly effective study techniques. Ultimately, the goal was to educate our new students on implementing effective study techniques.