Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Antibacterial activity of medicinal plants on the management of mastitis in dairy cows: A systematic review

Abstract Background Mastitis is a disease of economic importance in dairy production systems. The common management regime for mastitis is the use of synthetic antibiotics, giving a new problem of antibiotic resistance. There is, therefore, a need to prospect for alternatives to conventional antibiotics from herbal plants. Objectives This systematic review evaluates the use of plants as alternatives for the control of mastitis in dairy cattle, focussing on the effectiveness of studied plants and plant‐based products and possible implications on the use of these products in livestock health. Methodology The PRISMA model was implemented with searches done in five electronic databases: Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Ovid and Research4Life. Data were extracted from 45 studies with 112 plant species from plant species belonging to 42 different families. The specific keywords were 'mastitis', 'dairy cows' and 'medicinal plants'. Results The most cited plant species included Allium sativum L. , Azadirachta indica and Eucalyptus globulus Labill with the latter further exploring its components. Microbial species causing mastitis mainly were Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The extraction methods used included maceration approach using ethanol, methanol and water as solvents for phytochemicals and chromatographic techniques for essential oils. A few studies explored the mode of action, and toxicities of the herbal extracts as well as evaluating their efficacy in clinical trials using animal models. Conclusion Plants with defined levels of phytochemicals were essential sources of antibacterials. Standardisation of analytical methods is required.
Derivation of Bounds for Majorization Differences by a Novel Method and Its Applications in Information Theory

In the recent era of research developments, mathematical inequalities and their applications perform a very consequential role in different aspects, and they provide an engaging area for research activities. In this paper, we propose a new approach for the improvement of the classical majorization inequality and its weighted versions in a discrete sense. The proposed improvements give several estimates for the majorization differences. Some earlier improvements of the Jensen and Slater inequalities are deduced as direct consequences of the obtained results. We also discuss the conditions under which the main results give better estimates for the majorization differences. Applications of the acquired results are also presented in information theory.
Ratio of stemness to interferon signalling as a biomarker and therapeutic target of myeloproliferative neoplasm progression to acute myeloid leukaemia

Progression to aggressive secondary acute myeloid leukaemia (sAML) poses a significant challenge in the management of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Since the physiopathology of MPN is closely linked to the activation of interferon (IFN) signalling and that AML initiation and aggressiveness is driven by leukaemia stem cells (LSCs), we investigated these pathways in MPN to sAML progression. We found that high IFN signalling correlated with low LSC signalling in MPN and AML samples, while MPN progression and AML transformation were characterized by decreased IFN signalling and increased LSC signature. A high LSC to IFN expression ratio in MPN patients was associated with adverse clinical prognosis and higher colony forming potential. Moreover, treatment with hypomethylating agents (HMAs) activates the IFN signalling pathway in MPN cells by inducing a viral mimicry response. This response is characterized by double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) formation and MDA5/RIG‐I activation. The HMA‐induced IFN response leads to a reduction in LSC signature, resulting in decreased stemness. These findings reveal the frequent evasion of viral mimicry during MPN‐to‐sAML progression, establish the LSC‐to‐IFN expression ratio as a progression biomarker, and suggests that HMAs treatment can lead to haematological response in murine models by re‐activating dsRNA‐associated IFN signalling.
Metabolomic Signatures Associated with Radiation-Induced Lung Injury by Correlating Lung Tissue to Plasma in a Rat Model

The lung has raised significant concerns because of its radiosensitivity. Radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) has a serious impact on the quality of patients’ lives and limits the effect of radiotherapy on chest tumors. In clinical practice, effective drug intervention for RILI remains to be fully elucidated. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the biological characteristics is essential to reveal the mechanisms underlying the complex biological processes and discover novel therapeutic targets in RILI. In this study, Wistar rats received 0, 10, 20 or 35 Gy whole-thorax irradiation (WTI). Lung and plasma samples were collected within 5 days post-irradiation. Then, these samples were processed using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS). A panel of potential plasma metabolic markers was selected by correlation analysis between the lung tissue and plasma metabolic features, followed by the evaluation of radiation injury levels within 5 days following whole-thorax irradiation (WTI). In addition, the multiple metabolic dysregulations primarily involved amino acids, bile acids and lipid and fatty acid β-oxidation-related metabolites, implying disturbances in the urea cycle, intestinal flora metabolism and mitochondrial dysfunction. In particular, the accumulation of long-chain acylcarnitines (ACs) was observed as early as 2 d post-WTI by dynamic plasma metabolic data analysis. Our findings indicate that plasma metabolic markers have the potential for RILI assessment. These results reveal metabolic characteristics following WTI and provide new insights into therapeutic interventions for RILI.
Approximation Algorithms for Quantum Max-$d$-Cut

We initiate the algorithmic study of the Quantum Max-$d$-Cut problem, a quantum generalization of the well-known Max-$d$-Cut problem. The Quantum Max-$d$-Cut problem involves finding a quantum state that maximizes the expected energy associated with the projector onto the antisymmetric subspace of two, $d$-dimensional qudits over all local interactions. Equivalently, this problem is physically motivated by the $SU(d)$-Heisenberg model, a spin glass model that generalized the well-known Heisenberg model over qudits. We develop a polynomial-time randomized approximation algorithm that finds product-state solutions of mixed states with bounded purity that achieve non-trivial performance guarantees. Moreover, we prove the tightness of our analysis by presenting an algorithmic gap instance for Quantum Max-d-Cut problem with $d \geq 3$.
Analysis of Heuristic Optimization Technique Solutions for Combined Heat-Power Economic Load Dispatch

Thermal power plants use coal as a fuel to create electricity while wasting a significant amount of energy as heat. If the heat and power plants are combined and used in cogeneration systems, it is possible to reuse the waste heat and hence enhance the overall efficiency of the power plant. In order to minimize production costs while taking system constraints into account, it is important to find out the optimal operating point of power and heat for each unit. Combined heat and power production is now widely used to improve thermal efficiency, lower environmental emissions, and reduce power generation costs. In order to determine the best solutions to the combined heat and power economic dispatch problem, several traditional as well as innovative heuristic optimization approaches were employed. This study offers a thorough analysis of the use of heuristic optimization techniques for the solution of the combined heat and power economic dispatch problem. In this proposed work, the most well-known heuristic optimization methods are examined and used for the solution of various generating unit systems, such as 4, 7, 11, 24, 48, 84, and 96, taking into account various constraints. This study analyzes how various evolutionary approaches are performed for various test systems. The heuristic methodologies’ best outcomes for various case studies with restrictions are contrasted.
Discovery, validation, and diagnostic ability of multiple protein‐based biomarkers in saliva and gingival crevicular fluid to distinguish between health and periodontal diseases

Abstract Aim To discover and validate differential protein biomarker expression in saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) to discriminate objectively between periodontal health and plaque‐induced periodontal disease states. Materials and Methods One‐hundred and ninety participants were recruited from two centres (Birmingham and Newcastle upon Tyne, UK) comprising healthy, gingivitis, periodontitis, and edentulous donors. Samples from the Birmingham cohort were analysed by quantitative mass spectrometry proteomics for biomarker discovery. Shortlisted candidate proteins were then verified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in both cohorts. Leave‐one‐out cross validation logistic regression analysis was used to identify the best performing biomarker panels. Results Ninety‐five proteins were identified in both GCF and saliva samples, and 15 candidate proteins were selected based upon differences discovered between the donor groups. The best performing panels to distinguish between: health or gingivitis and periodontitis contained matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP9), S100A8, alpha‐1‐acid glycoprotein (A1AGP), pyruvate kinase, and age (area under the curve [AUC] 0.970); health and gingivitis contained MMP9, S100A8, A1AGP, and pyruvate kinase, but not age (AUC 0.768); and mild to moderate and advanced periodontitis contained MMP9, S100A8, A1AGP, pyruvate kinase, and age (AUC 0.789). Conclusions Biomarker panels containing four proteins with and without age as a further parameter can distinguish between periodontal health and disease states.
Interventions to tackle health inequalities in cardiovascular risks for socioeconomically disadvantaged populations: a rapid review

Abstract Introduction Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has shown significant health inequalities for people with low socioeconomic status associated with more risk factors. This review was to synthesize interventions that targeted CVD risks and outcomes among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations and to understand the impact associated with these interventions. Sources of data Cochrane CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL were searched for records published in the last decade using a systematic search strategy, complemented by screening the reference lists and citation indexes. Nineteen studies were included and a narrative synthesis with the effect direction plot was undertaken in which studies, interventions, participants and outcomes were examined according to the intervention type focusing on behaviours, lifestyle, education, medication and monitoring. Areas of agreement No universal definition of disadvantaged socioeconomic status was used with common factors relating to racial/ethnic minorities, low income and low or no health insurance. Mixed effects of interventions were reported on clinical outcomes including weight, body mass index, blood pressure, glycated haemoglobin and cholesterol. Areas of controversy Inconsistent effect was reported due to a large variety of settings, participants and intervention components although they are considered necessary to address the complex health needs of socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. Growing points There is inadequate evidence to determine whether any of the intervention types are effective in optimising lipids management for socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. Areas timely for developing research Research is needed with mixed evidence using real world evaluation and lived experience combined with health economic evaluation, on both mental and physical health outcomes.
Noise-reduction techniques for 1H-FID-MRSI at 14.1T: Monte-Carlo validation&in vivo application

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (1H-MRSI) is a powerful tool that enables the multidimensional non-invasive mapping of the neurochemical profile at high-resolution over the entire brain. The constant demand for higher spatial resolution in 1H-MRSI led to increased interest in post-processing-based denoising methods aimed at reducing noise variance. The aim of the present study was to implement two noise-reduction techniques, the Marchenko-Pastur principal component analysis (MP-PCA) based denoising and the low-rank total generalized variation (LR-TGV) reconstruction, and to test their potential and impact on preclinical 14.1T fast in vivo 1H-FID-MRSI datasets. Since there is no known ground truth for in vivo metabolite maps, additional evaluations of the performance of both noise-reduction strategies were conducted using Monte-Carlo simulations. Results showed that both denoising techniques increased the apparent signal-to-noise ratio SNR while preserving noise properties in each spectrum for both in vivo and Monte-Carlo datasets. Relative metabolite concentrations were not significantly altered by either methods and brain regional differences were preserved in both synthetic and in vivo datasets. Increased precision of metabolite estimates was observed for the two methods, with inconsistencies noted on lower concentrated metabolites. Our study provided a framework on how to evaluate the performance of MP-PCA and LR-TGV methods for preclinical 1H-FID MRSI data at 14.1T. While gains in apparent SNR and precision were observed, concentration estimations ought to be treated with care especially for low-concentrated metabolites.
Performance evaluation of alternate ESR measurement method using BC-780 automated hematology analyzer: a comparison study with the Westergren reference method

Abstract Objectives Implementation of alternate erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) measurement method is increasing worldwide due to its various advantages. In this study, we aim to evaluate the analytical performance of the BC-780 automated hematology analyzer in measurement of ESR value. Methods Analyzer performance including precision study, carryover, sample stability and potential interferences are examined. Samples with ESR values spanning the whole analytical ESR range are included for method comparison study. Samples with different hematocrit (Hct) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) values are also analyzed and compared with the results obtained from the Westergren reference method. Results Precisions and carryover results are consistent with the manufacturers’ claim. ESR values do not change significantly in the samples stored at 2–8 °C for 24 h (h) or at room temperature (RT) for 8 h, but significantly decreased (p<0.001) when stored at RT for 24 h. Significant increase in ESR value is documented in samples that are hemolyzed (hemoglobin concentration ranged from 1.28–6.01 g/L) (p=0.010) or lipemic (triglyceride above 4.75 mmol/L) (p=0.001). Method comparison study yields a proportional difference with a regression equation=3.08+ 0.98x. Bland–Altman analysis shows a mean absolute bias of 3.12 mm. The obtained absolute mean biases are below 5 mm in all analytical categories except for the group where MCV>100 fL. Conclusions Most tested parameters met the manufacturer’s specifications and were comparable to the reference method. Despite the presence of positive bias, it falls within acceptable criteria. Extensive validation against potential interferences such as hemolysis/lipemia is still necessary in future.
Deciduous Molars Complexity Anatomy Reveled by Computed Microtomography

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to analyze the internal morphology of deciduous molars through the use of computed microtomography in a sample from Rio de Janeiro. Material and Methods Thirty maxillary and 30 mandibular deciduous molars ( n = 60), divided in first and second primary molars, were scanned by computed microtomography. The teeth were evaluated for root number, root canals, Vertucci classification, root curvature, presence of lateral canals, furcation dentin thickness, structure model index (SMI), volume, and canal surface area. Results The results showed 100% of maxillary molars had three roots and Vertucci type I canal was more prevalent in this group. In the mandibular ones, type IV was more frequent in the mesial root and class I in the distal root and the cavo-interradicular canal occurred in 2 specimens. Dentin thickness in the furcation region measured 1.53 and 1.59 mm in the maxillary and mandibular, respectively. Volume and area parameters varied according to the evaluated canals and SMI demonstrated that all canals had a cylindrical shape. Conclusion More detailed information about the internal anatomy of the primary molars has been described, which may help strategies in the preparation of these root canals.
CD39 expression by regulatory T cells drives CD8+ T cell suppression during experimental Trypanosoma cruzi infection

An imbalance between suppressor and effector immune responses may preclude cure in chronic parasitic diseases. In the case of Trypanosoma cruzi infection, specialized regulatory Foxp3+ T (Treg) cells suppress protective type-1 effector responses. Herein, we investigated the kinetics and underlying mechanisms behind the regulation of protective parasite-specific CD8+ T cell immunity during acute T. cruzi infection. Using the DEREG mouse model, we found that Treg cells play a critical role during the initial stages after T. cruzi infection, subsequently influencing CD8+ T cells. Early Treg cell depletion increased the frequencies of polyfunctional short-lived, effector T cell subsets, without affecting memory precursor cell formation or the expression of activation markers. In addition, Treg cell depletion during early infection minimally affected the antigen-presenting cell response but it boosted CD4+ T cell responses before the development of anti-parasite effector CD8+ T cell responses. Crucially, the absence of CD39 expression on Treg cells significantly bolstered effector parasite-specific CD8+ T cell responses, leading to improved parasite control during T. cruzi infection. Our work underscores the crucial role of Treg cells in regulating protective anti-parasite immunity and provides evidence that CD39 expression by Treg cells represents a key immunomodulatory mechanism in this infection model.
Long-Read Sequencing Reveals Rapid Evolution of Immunity- and Cancer-Related Genes in Bats

Abstract Bats are exceptional among mammals for their powered flight, extended lifespans, and robust immune systems and therefore have been of particular interest in comparative genomics. Using the Oxford Nanopore Technologies long-read platform, we sequenced the genomes of two bat species with key phylogenetic positions, the Jamaican fruit bat (Artibeus jamaicensis) and the Mesoamerican mustached bat (Pteronotus mesoamericanus), and carried out a comprehensive comparative genomic analysis with a diverse collection of bats and other mammals. The high-quality, long-read genome assemblies revealed a contraction of interferon (IFN)-α at the immunity-related type I IFN locus in bats, resulting in a shift in relative IFN-ω and IFN-α copy numbers. Contradicting previous hypotheses of constitutive expression of IFN-α being a feature of the bat immune system, three bat species lost all IFN-α genes. This shift to IFN-ω could contribute to the increased viral tolerance that has made bats a common reservoir for viruses that can be transmitted to humans. Antiviral genes stimulated by type I IFNs also showed evidence of rapid evolution, including a lineage-specific duplication of IFN-induced transmembrane genes and positive selection in IFIT2. In addition, 33 tumor suppressors and 6 DNA-repair genes showed signs of positive selection, perhaps contributing to increased longevity and reduced cancer rates in bats. The robust immune systems of bats rely on both bat-wide and lineage-specific evolution in the immune gene repertoire, suggesting diverse immune strategies. Our study provides new genomic resources for bats and sheds new light on the extraordinary molecular evolution in this critically important group of mammals.
MDA5 RNA-sensing pathway activation by Mycobacterium tuberculosis promotes innate immune subversion and pathogen survival

Host cytosolic sensing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) RNA by the RIG-I–like receptor (RLR) family perturbs innate immune control within macrophages; however, a distinct role of MDA5, a member of the RLR family, in M. tuberculosis pathogenesis has yet to be fully elucidated. To further define the role of MDA5 in M. tuberculosis pathogenesis, we evaluated M. tuberculosis intracellular growth and innate immune responses in WT and Mda5–/– macrophages. Transfection of M. tuberculosis RNA strongly induced proinflammatory cytokine production in WT macrophages, which was abrogated in Mda5–/– macrophages. M. tuberculosis infection in macrophages induced MDA5 protein expression, accompanied by an increase in MDA5 activation as assessed by multimer formation. IFN-γ–primed Mda5–/– macrophages effectively contained intracellular M. tuberculosis proliferation to a markedly greater degree than WT macrophages. Further comparisons of WT versus Mda5–/– macrophages revealed that during M. tuberculosis infection MDA5 contributed to IL-1β production and inflammasome activation and that loss of MDA5 led to a substantial increase in autophagy. In the mouse TB model, loss of MDA5 conferred host survival benefits with a concomitant reduction in M. tuberculosis bacillary burden. These data reveal that loss of MDA5 is host protective during M. tuberculosis infection in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that M. tuberculosis exploits MDA5 to subvert immune containment.
The Correlation between Oral Lichen Planus and Thyroid Pathologies: A Retrospective Study in a Sample of Italian Population

Abstract Objectives The association between oral lichen planus and thyroid disorders, especially hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, has been discussed in current literature with conflicting outcomes. Materials and Methods The study retrospectively evaluated the thyroid status in patients diagnosed with oral lichen planus and oral lichenoid lesions. A case–control approach was used to prove that thyroid disorders were statistically significant risk factors for oral lichen planus and oral lichenoid lesions. Statistical Analysis To evaluate these associations, odds ratios (ORs) were used. ORs precision and statistical significance were estimated using a 95% confidence interval (CI) and p -value, respectively. Results A total of 307 patients were involved in the study: 158 females and 149 males. OR, 95% CIs, and p -values were analyzed. Patients with thyroid diseases showed an increased risk of developing oral lichen planus (OR: 4.29, 95% CI: 1.85–9.96, p -value: 0.0007) and oral lichenoid lesions (OR: 2.76, 95% CI: 1.24–6.13, p -value: 0.0129). This association was maintained in patients with oral lichen planus, while also considering hypothyroidism (OR: 3.74, 95% CI: 1.46–9.58, p -value: 0.0059) and Hashimoto's thyroiditis (OR: 4.57, 95% CI: 1.58–13.23, p -value: 0.005) alone. The correlation of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and smoking status with oral lichen planus and oral lichenoid lesions was also evaluated but no statistical significance was found. Conclusion Even if further investigations are needed, the association between oral lichen planus and oral lichenoid lesions with thyroid pathologies should be taken into consideration by endocrinologists due to the potential malignancy of these disorders.