Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Calcifediol: Mechanisms of Action

Due to its essential role in calcium and phosphate homeostasis, the secosteroid hormone calcitriol has received growing attention over the last few years. Calcitriol, like other steroid hormones, may function through both genomic and non-genomic mechanisms. In the traditional function, the interaction between the biologically active form of vitamin D and the vitamin D receptor (VDR) affects the transcription of thousands of genes by binding to repeated sequences present in their promoter region, named vitamin D-responsive elements (VDREs). Non-transcriptional effects, on the other hand, occur quickly and are unaffected by inhibitors of transcription and protein synthesis. Recently, calcifediol, the immediate precursor metabolite of calcitriol, has also been shown to bind to the VDR with weaker affinity than calcitriol, thus exerting gene-regulatory properties. Moreover, calcifediol may also trigger rapid non-genomic responses through its interaction with specific membrane vitamin D receptors. Membrane-associated VDR (mVDR) and protein disulfide isomerase family A member 3 (Pdia3) are the best-studied candidates for mediating these rapid responses to vitamin D metabolites. This paper provides an overview of the calcifediol-related mechanisms of action, which may help to better understand the vitamin D endocrine system and to identify new therapeutic targets that could be important for treating diseases closely associated with vitamin D deficiency.
Cumhuriyet Dental

Objectives: The aim of our study is to show the prevalence of temporomandibular joint disease (TMD) in fibromyalgia (FM) patients in Turkish population and to evaluate the relationship between vitamin D levels of FM patients with TMD. Materials and Methods: Patients diagnosed FM in the last 4 months were examined in terms of TMD using DC/TMD criteria. By using biochemical data of the patients included in the study, the relationship between vitamin D levels and TMD was interpreted . Results: Among the 39 FM patients who underwent temporomandibular joint examination (mean age 39.8; age range 18-59), the number of patients with TMD (muscle pain, joint pain, mouth opening limitation, disc displacement, degenerative joint disease) was 30 (29 female, 1 male), while the number of patients without any TMD was found 9 (7 female, 2 male). No statistically significant difference was found between those with TMD and those without TMD in terms of vitamin D (Mann-Whitney U test, D vit). Conclusions: Dentists should be aware that patients with widespread pain in the temporomandibular joint area may be candidates for FM and should be careful in evaluating laboratory tests of these patients. The prevalence of TMJ in FM patients and its relationship with vitamin D should be examined with new studies with large patient participation.
The Claim of U.S. Exceptionalism within a Context of Race, Gender and Class Inequality

American exceptionalism is currently the subject of many books, scholarly articles, and popular publications. Though the statements supporting this concept have varied somewhat over the years in format, articulation and presentation, a central core of claims and doctrines remain intact: that is, the presumptions that American values, political and economic systems, and history remain unique, and superior to that of other nations; and, that the U.S. is both destined and entitled to play a distinct and positive role on the world stage (Walt 2011). Others have claimed that the U.S. is the greatest and most commendable nation on earth, and the leader and protector of the free and democratic worlds; and that therefore it must maintain a strong and an ever-ready military force (Restad 2015; Richard 2012). The hubris of such claims is mindful of the doctrines of former president Theodore Roosevelt, a war monger par excellence. Perhaps more Americans should read Edward Gibbon’s classic work, The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire that met the needs of many but was finally brought down with the great help of the rise of Christianity. SOME BRIEF HISTORICAL NOTES ON AMERICAN EXCEPTIONALISM
Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Studies Comparing Complete Capsular Closure Against Unrepaired Hip Capsules During Hip Arthroscopy

Background: While the biomechanical importance of the hip capsule is well described, there remains controversy over the necessity of routine capsular closure after hip arthroscopy. Purpose: To perform a meta-analysis of clinical studies to compare pooled outcomes of complete hip capsular closure cohorts against unrepaired hip capsule cohorts. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL/EBSCO, and Scopus were queried in February 2022 for studies that directly compared clinical outcomes for hip arthroscopy patients treated with either complete capsular closure or an unrepaired capsule. Outcomes assessed were incidence of revision hip arthroscopy, incidence of subsequent conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA), and improvement from baseline in modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Hip Outcome Score (HOS) activities of daily living (ADL), HOS sports specific (SS) subscale, Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS) ADL, and HAGOS SS subscale. A pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) was used to compare changes in mHHS. A pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) was used to compare changes in the ADL and SS outcomes. A pooled risk ratio (RR) was used to compare the probability of revision hip arthroscopy and conversion to THA based on capsular management. For pooled outcomes where heterogeneity was regarded as potentially unimportant, a fixed-effects model was implemented. For pooled outcomes with considerable heterogeneity, a random-effects model was implemented. Results: Of the 1896 records identified in our search, 11 studies (1897 patients) were included. A significantly higher improvement in mHHS (WMD, −3.72; 95% CI, −4.95 to −2.50; P < .00001) and ADL outcomes (SMD, −0.30; 95% CI, −0.54 to −0.07; P = .01) were seen after complete capsular closure. There was a significantly lower probability of subsequent revision hip arthroscopy (RR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.14 to 2.45; P = .008) and conversion to THA (RR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.06 to 3.79; P = .03) after complete capsular repair. There was no difference in SS outcomes (SMD, −0.02; 95% CI, −0.16 to 0.13; P = .81) between the 2 groups. Conclusion: This meta-analysis demonstrated that routine complete capsular closure after hip arthroscopy led to superior clinical outcomes relative to unrepaired hip capsules.
Cambrian to Holocene Structural and Burial History of Nashville Dome

About 14,000 ft (4,270 m) of strata covered basement over the present crest of the Nashville dome by the end of the Paleozoic (calculated by estimating the geothermal gradient, and using temperatures of veins in Stones River Group and Knox Dolomite). At least 7,500 ft (2,290 m) of post-Devonian strata have been removed by subsequent erosion. Estimates of other erosional episodes include 350 ft (107 m) of upper Knox (during the Middle Ordovician) and 500 ft (152 m) of Devonian-Ordovician (during the Late Devonian). Mesozoic to Holocene uplift was at least 6,350 ft (1,940 m), 1,500 ft or 460 m (25%) of which occurred in the latest 100 m.y. and 450 ft or 140 m (7%) during the latest 2 m.y. , a rate ranging from about 15 ft/m.y. (4.6 m/m.y.) for the longer term to over 225 ft/ . y. (70 m/m.y.) in the Pleistocene to Holocene. Earliest structure of the area was a series of elongate basins, probably rifts synchronous with Reelfoot rift to the west. Uplifts trending N10°E moved about 40 mi (65 km) westward during the Middle Ordovician. These may relate to similar trending (and moving) Appalachian orogenic events. A change to uplifts trending N50°E (parallel to strikes of Appalachian thrusts) occurred in the Late Ordovician and continued to the Devonian; this may reflect a similar Late Ordovician change in the orientation of Appalachian tectonism. In the interval from post-Mississippian to Late Cretaceous, the dome curved westward to join the Pascola arch in response to Ouachita activity.
Model study of seepage in smear zones around vertical drains in layered soil

Physical model tests were conducted to investigate the effects of soil disturbance, commonly termed smear, around vertical drains installed to accelerate consolidation in compressible soils. A 25 mm dia. mandrel carrying a cylindrical drain was driven into 252 mm dia. models composed of alternating layers of preconsolidated kaolin and silty sand, and the effect of smear was quantified by means of radial flow permeability tests. A parametric study of the influence of sand layer thickness, clay layer thickness, mandrel driving speed and mandrel tip angle was conducted. Two tests were also conducted on clay models without sand layers. In the layered models, for which the undisturbed horizontal permeability was always much greater than the vertical permeability, the smear effect was found to be substantial. In the absence of sand layers, it was relatively modest and consistent with previous research.
Risk of Periodontal Diseases in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: An Overview

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent condition seen in reproductive-aged women, which has a negative impact on their health system. There is a serious concern for women having PCOS that they may experience long-term metabolic conditions. PCOS also has a negative impact on periodontium components such as gingiva, periodontal ligament (PDL), and alveolar bone. It has been said that there may be a bidirectional link between PCOS and periodontal diseases. Moreover, PCOS and periodontal disorders both have common risk factors. Periodontal diseases are exacerbated by systemic low-grade inflammation, including obesity, constant immunological imbalance, and oxidative stress caused by PCOS. On the other hand, periodontal diseases can also increase the risk of causing PCOS. According to recent data, women with PCOS may be more likely to suffer from periodontal diseases. A PubMed and Google Scholar search was conducted for literature relating to PCOS and its relationship with different comorbidities which also included periodontal disorders. Analyses were performed, and data was synthesized and assembled in a presentable form. Therefore, the focus of this review will be on the relationship between PCOS and periodontal disorders, as well as the risk factors for both. However, in order to establish a more distinct and solid link, more studies with a large sample size need to be done.
Inhibition of IEC-6 Cell Proliferation and the Mechanism of Ulcerative Colitis in C57BL/6 Mice by Dandelion Root Polysaccharides

An exploration was conducted on the potential therapeutic properties of dandelion polysaccharide (DP) in addressing 3% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in murine models. Subsequent assessments focused on DP’s influence on inflammation, oxidative stress, and ferroptosis in IEC-6 cells damaged by H2O2. Results highlighted the efficacy of DP in mitigating weight loss, improving disease activity index scores, normalizing colon length, and alleviating histological abnormalities in the affected mice. DP repaired colonic mitochondrial damage by enhancing iron transport and inhibited iron death in colonic cells. Moreover, DP played a pivotal role in enhancing the antioxidant potential. This was evident from the increased expression levels of Nrf2, HO-1, NQO-1, and GSH, coupled with a decrease in MDA and 4-HNE markers in the UC-afflicted mice. Concurrently, DP manifested inhibitory effects on MPO activation and transcription levels of inflammatory mediators such as IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and iNOS. An upsurge in the expression of occludin and ZO-1 was also observed. Restoration of intestinal tightness resulted in decreased serum LPS and LDH levels. Thereafter, administration of DP by gavage increased fecal flora diversity and relative abundance of probiotics in UC mice. Analysis of metabolites indicated that DP counteracted metabolic disturbances and augmented the levels of short-chain fatty acids in ulcerative colitis-affected mice. In vitro studies underscored the role of DP in triggering Nrf2 activation, which in turn exhibited anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-ferroptotic properties. Summarily, DP’s capacity to activate Nrf2 contributes to the suppression of ferroptotic processes in intestinal epithelial cells of UC-affected mice, enhancing the intestinal barrier’s integrity. Beyond that, DP possesses the ability to modulate the gut microbiome, rectify metabolic imbalances, rejuvenate short-chain fatty acid levels, and bolster the intestinal barrier as a therapeutic approach to UC.
Effects of Supplementation of Eurca Seeds as Nutraceutical Feed Additive on Productivity, Antioxidant Activity, and Yolk Cholesterol Level of Laying Hens

Eruca sativa (ES) seeds are annual herbs belonging to the Brassicaceae family, widely grown in Mediterranean countries, such as Egypt, Italy, and Greece. The ES is rich in macronutrient components and phytochemical content, exhibiting potent antioxidant properties and functional properties for vital processes such as digestion and absorption of nutrients. Therefore, this research was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary ES supplementation on laying performance, some blood parameters, and egg yolk cholesterol. A total of 300 Silver Sabahia strain hens, aged 26 weeks, were randomly distributed among four groups of five replicates, each replicate consisting of 15 hens. Chickens in group 1 served as a control and were fed the basal diet. Those in groups 2, 3, and 4 were fed basal diet supplemented with 1, 2, and 3% ESs, respectively. Productive performance traits, egg quality traits, hematological parameters, blood parameters, and yolk cholesterol profiles were performed throughout the study. The study lasted for 13 weeks (until week 39 of chickens' age). Results indicated that 3% ES supplementation had higher results on egg mass (35.68%), egg production (21.13%), and improved feed conversion ratio by 30.37%, compared to all groups. Furthermore, ESs supplementation positively affects the shell thickness and yolk color score compared to the control. Compared to the control, the highest significant blood hemoglobin and lymphocytes were recorded in the groups supplemented with 2% and 3% of ESs. The ES inclusion at a higher level (3%) in the diet of laying hens led to significantly enhanced serum high-density lipoprotein and total antioxidant capacity, while reducing cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and malondialdehyde levels, compared to the control diet. Serum calcium, tri-iodothyronine, and alkaline phosphatase levels increased significantly in response to 3% ES treatment, while liver enzymes decreased significantly compared to the control diet. Notably, the addition of 2% and 3% ESs to the hens’ ration resulted in reduced egg cholesterol content, which is desirable for consumers seeking healthier dietary choices. Finally, adding 3% ESs to hens’ diet improves productive performance, egg quality traits, hematological parameters, blood parameters, and yolk cholesterol profile.
Expanded population of low-density neutrophils in juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Introduction Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), a clinically variable disease characterized by autoimmune arthritis, affects children, and its immunopathology remains elusive. Alterations in neutrophil biology play an important role in this disease. In the present study, we aimed to explore the features of low-density neutrophils (LDNs) in patients with JIA. Methods Gene expression of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from children with distinct subtypes of JIA was analyzed by NanoString Immunology panel. Presence of LDNs was ascertained by flow cytometry and the release of neutrophil-associated products were analyzed by LUMINEX. Results LDNs were detected in patients’ peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) after density gradient centrifugation. Transcriptomic analysis of JIA PBMCs revealed that genes related to neutrophil degranulation were markedly upregulated. The number of LDNs and level of their degranulation products increased in patients’ PBMCs and correlated with serum calprotectin, but not with disease activity, sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. The phenotypes of LDNs varied from those of normal-density neutrophils and healthy donor LDNs. Phenotypical analysis revealed LDNs are immature and primed population with decreased suppressive capacity. A negative correlation between surface proteins CD62L, CD66b, and CD11b and the number of inflamed joints/JADAS was established. Conclusion Our results describe LDNs as primed, degranulated, immature cells with impaired suppressive activities. This work thus contributes to the increasing body of evidence that LDNs in JIA are altered and their role in the disease immunopathogenesis and possible clinical associations should be investigated further.
The Redundancy Principle in Multimedia Learning

Abstract The redundancy principle suggests that redundant material interferes with rather than facilitates learning. Redundancy occurs when the same information is presented in multiple forms or is unnecessarily elaborated. In this chapter, the long, but until recently unknown, history of the principle is traced. In addition, an explanation of the principle using cognitive load theory is provided. The theory suggests that coordinating redundant information with essential information increases working memory load, which interferes with the transfer of information to long-term memory. Eliminating redundant information eliminates the requirement to coordinate multiple sources of information. Accordingly, instructional designs that eliminate redundant material can be superior to those that include redundancy. Introduction The history of the redundancy effect or principle is a history of academic amnesia. The effect has been discovered, forgotten, and rediscovered many times over many decades. This unusual history probably has two related causes: first, the effect is seen as counterintuitive by many researchers and practitioners and second, until recently, there has not been a clear theoretical explanation to place it into context. As a consequence of these two factors, demonstrations of the effect have tended to be treated as isolated peculiarities unconnected to any mainstream work. Memories of each demonstration have faded with the passage of time until the next demonstration has appeared. Worse, each demonstration has tended to be unconnected to the previous one. Hopefully, current explanations of the effect can alter this lamentable state of affairs.
The Cambridge Handbook of Multimedia Learning

Durante la ultima decada el campo del aprendizaje multimediado ha emergido como una disciplina coherente basada en la investigacion. El Manual presenta un panorama actualizado y comprensivo de ambos. Este tipo de aprendizaje tiene lugar a traves de palabras (textos orales e impresos) e imagenes (ilustraciones, fotografias, mapas, animaciones, video). El Manual se centra en el modo en que se aprende con estos recursos en contextos mediados por la computadora.
Seminal Caspase 3, Cytochrome C and Total Antioxidant Capacity in Nigerian Male Subjects Undergoing Infertility Evaluation

Male factor infertility may be responsible for about half of cases of infertility. This study evaluated the activities of caspase 3, cytochrome c and total antioxidant capacity in normospermic males investigated for infertility. Seminal plasma cytochrome c, caspases3 and total antioxidant capacity were determined by Enzyme linked Immunosorbent assay technique. Sixty (60) infertile males aged 39.6±0.28 and 30 males aged 38.9±0.52 with proven fertility were enrolled. The activities of cytochrome c (p<0.002) and caspase 3 (p<0.01) were significantly higher in infertile but normospermic than controls. There was however no significant different in the level of total antioxidant capacity between the groups. The levels of cytochrome c (p<0.001) and caspase 3 (p<0.02) were significantly higher in the subjects with primary infertility than secondary infertility. Cytochrome c and caspase 3 correlated negatively with sperm morphology in normospermic infertile males. Seminal fluid caspase 3 and cytochrome c activities were higher in normospermic but infertile males than control subjects. The implication of these findings on fertility potential of the male subjects is discussed.
Usefulness of Practice-Based Pedagogical Approaches for Nascent Student Entrepreneurs

This article focuses on the impact of an entrepreneurship education program on nascent student entrepreneurs. It is based on the implementation of the French-language program “Étudiant-entrepreneur… Oui, c’est possible” (Student-entrepreneur… Yes, it’s possible) in different faculties at the Hassan I University in Morocco. The study used a pretest-posttest research design with 32 participants trained in the program and 30 participants in the control group. The results show that the program significantly improved knowledge, skills, or competencies about starting a business, entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE), and entrepreneurial behavior (marginally), but not entrepreneurial attitudes and intentions. Under the assumption that strong attitudes and intentions are prerequisites for becoming nascent entrepreneurs, the present results suggest that specific content training coupled with pedagogical approaches adapted based on progress in the entrepreneurial process benefits those with insufficient knowledge and ESE as they work to develop their entrepreneurial ideas.
A geographic-location-based medical school admissions process does not influence pre-clerkship and licensing examination academic performance

Background Students are selected for admission to the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University (NOSM U) MD degree program using criteria aiming to maximize access of persons thought most likely to practice in the region, including use of a geographic context score (GCS) which ranks those with lived experience in northern Ontario and/or rurality most highly. This study investigates the effect of this admissions process upon medical school academic performance. Methods We used a retrospective cohort design combined with multiple linear regression analysis to investigate the relationship between admission scores and performance on pre-clerkship courses, and the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Exam Part 1 (MCCQE1). The GCS did not significantly explain performance variance on any pre-clerkship course, nor on the MCCQE1, while the undergraduate Grade Point Average correlated with most assessment scores. The number of prior undergraduate biomedical courses predicted science and clinical skills performance, particularly in Year 1, but not with MCCQE1 scores. Performance on Year 2 courses, particularly foundational sciences and clinical skills, significantly predicted MCCQE1 scores. Results Our data suggest that admission geographic context scoring is unrelated to future academic performance. Further, students with fewer prior undergraduate biomedical courses may benefit from increased support and/or a modified program during the early years.