Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with cesarean sections in a high complexity university hospital in southern Brazil

b Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Escola de Enfermagem, Departamento de Enfermagem Materno-Infantil. Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the factors associated with cesarean sections in a high complexity university hospital in southern Brazil. Methods: Cross-sectional study carried out at the Obstetric Hospital Unit of the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre. Data were gathered from questionnaires carried out with 361 puerperal women and maternal and neonatal records, from February to April 2013. For the analysis, Prevalence Ratio through Univariate Poisson Regression was used. Results: The prevalence of cesarean sections was 31%. The category of hospitalization, cervix dilation and its characteristics, fetal presentation, and uterine dynamics, at the time of admission, were statistically related to cesarean sections; not having a previous cesarean section and night shift (from midnight to 6AM) were protective factors. Conclusions: The prevalence of cesarean sections is above the rate recommended by the World Health Organization, but it is similar to rates found in other university hospitals, thus pointing out the need for the proposition of actions aimed at improving this indicator.
Computer simulation of storm runoff for three watersheds in Albuquerque, New Mexico

The relation between the degree of urbanization and runoff characteristics in the desert plateau environment of Albuquerque, New Mexico, is not well understood. Reliable flood-flow frequency data and an understanding of rainfall-runoff characteristics are critical information needs for the planning and design of drainage structures and the evaluation of the effects of development on runoff. Currently, flood peaks and volumes are estimated using empirical relations developed from data for other urban areas. In this study, the U.S. Geological Survey's Distributed Routing Rainfall-Runoff Model was used to simulate runoff in three urban watersheds in the Albuquerque, New Mexico, area. These three urban watersheds are ideally suited to the model because of their impervious cover and street gutters and lined channels that convey flow. A calibrated model could be used as a tool to predict flow in urban watersheds under future development. Rainfall-runoff data were collected within each watershed and rainfall data were collected within or near each watershed to evaluate areal distribution of rainfall for storms to be used in model simulation. These data for each watershed were divided into two sets for use in model calibration and model verification. For calibration, seven input parameters and overland and channel routing were optimized to attain a best fit of the rainfall-runoff data. For verification, parameters from the model calibration were used to simulate runoff volumes and peak discharge. In the final calibrated model for Grant Line Arroyo, median simulated runoff volumes were about 5 percent higher than observed runoff volumes, and median simulated peak discharges were equal to observed peak discharges. For model verification median simulated runoff volumes were 9 percent higher than observed runoff volumes, and median simulated peak discharges were 4 percent higher than observed peak discharges. In the final calibrated model for Academy Acres Drain, median simulated runoff volumes were about 10 percent higher than observed runoff volumes, and median simulated peak discharges were about 8 percent higher than observed peak discharges. Median simulated runoff volumes were 5 percent higher than observed runoff volumes, and median simulated peak discharges were 6 percent higher than observed peak discharges. In the final calibrated model for Taylor Ranch Drain, median simulated runoff volumes were 15 percent higher than observed runoff volumes and median simulated peak discharges were 22 percent lower than observed peak discharges. For model verification median simulated runoff volumes were about 6 percent higher than observed runoff volumes, and median simulated peak discharges were about equal to observed peak discharges. Standard errors of estimate for the three watersheds ranged from 19 to 34 percent for calibration of runoff volumes and from 27 to 44 percent for calibration of peak discharges. Standard errors of estimate ranged from 26 to 31 percent for verification of runoff volumes and from 31 to 43 percent for verification of peak discharges.
Associating Inulin with a Pea Protein Improves Fast-Twitch Skeletal Muscle Mass and Muscle Mitochondrial Activities in Old Rats

Aging is associated with a decline in muscle mass and function, leading to increased risk for mobility limitations and frailty. Dietary interventions incorporating specific nutrients, such as pea proteins or inulin, have shown promise in attenuating age-related muscle loss. This study aimed to investigate the effect of pea proteins given with inulin on skeletal muscle in old rats. Old male rats (20 months old) were randomly assigned to one of two diet groups for 16 weeks: a ‘PEA’ group receiving a pea-protein-based diet, or a ‘PEA + INU’ group receiving the same pea protein-based diet supplemented with inulin. Both groups showed significant postprandial stimulation of muscle p70 S6 kinase phosphorylation rate after consumption of pea proteins. However, the PEA + INU rats showed significant preservation of muscle mass with time together with decreased MuRF1 transcript levels. In addition, inulin specifically increased PGC1-α expression and key mitochondrial enzyme activities in the plantaris muscle of the old rats. These findings suggest that dietary supplementation with pea proteins in combination with inulin has the potential to attenuate age-related muscle loss. Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms and determine the optimal dosage and duration of intervention for potential translation to human studies.
Determinants of acute irreversible electroporation lesion characteristics after pulsed field ablation: the role of voltage, contact, and adipose interference

Abstract Aims Pulsed field ablation (PFA) is a non-thermal ablative approach in which cardiomyocyte death is obtained through irreversible electroporation (IRE). Data correlating the biophysical characteristics of IRE and lesion characteristics are limited. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of different procedural parameters [voltage, number of cycles (NoCs), and contact] on lesion characteristics in a vegetal and animal model for IRE. Methods and results Two hundred and four Russet potatoes were used. Pulsed field ablation lesions were delivered on 3 cm cored potato specimens using a multi-electrode circular catheter with its dedicated IRE generator. Different voltage (from 300 to 1200 V) and NoC (from 1 to 5×) protocols were used. The impact of 0.5 and 1 mm catheter-to-specimen distances was tested. A swine animal model was then used to validate the results observed in the vegetable model. The association between voltage, the NoCs, distance, and lesion depth was assessed through linear regression. An almost perfect linear association between lesion depth and voltage was observed (R2 = 0.95; P < 0.001). A similarly linear relationship was observed between the NoCs and the lesion depth (R2 = 0.73; P < 0.001). Compared with controls at full contact, a significant dampening on lesion depth was observed at 0.5 mm distance (1000 V 2×: 2.11 ± 0.12 vs. 0.36 ± 0.04, P < 0.001; 2.63 ± 0.10 vs. 0.43 ± 0.08, P < 0.001). No lesions were observed at 1.0 mm distance. Conclusion In a vegetal and animal model for IRE assessment, PFA lesion characteristics were found to be strongly dependent on voltage settings and the NoCs, with a quasi-linear relationship. The lack of catheter contact was associated with a dampening in lesion depth.
Ectopic double primary bronchogenic cysts: a case description

Bronchogenic cyst (BC) is a rare congenital developmental abnormality, usually affecting the lungs and mediastinum. BCs occurring at abnormal sites such as the neck, abdominal cavity, retroperitoneum, and spinal dura are extremely rare and are referred to as ectopic bronchogenic cysts (eBCs). BCs are asymptomatic and lack typical imaging findings in the initial stage; however, as the cyst grows, it compresses the surrounding tissues and organs, causing clinical symptoms, which are not recognized until the occurrence of complications such as secondary acute bleeding, infection, and perforation. Therefore, most patients cannot receive timely treatment at the early stage of the disease, resulting in aggravated disease and poor prognosis. Similar to single BCs, ectopic double primary BCs have no clinical symptoms at the initial stage and are not typical in imaging. Early diagnosis still faces great challenges, as ectopic double primary BCs are easily confused with neurogenic tumors, diaphragmatic hernias, hydatid cysts, esophageal diverticulum, or adrenal cysts. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are still the best imaging methods for BCs. The mechanism of BC emergence remains unclear; however, the case we report here strongly supports Sumiyoshi et al.’s hypothesis of germ shedding and displacement (1) and provides case evidence for further defining the pathogenesis of BCs. In addition, most of the reported cases of BCs have been found by chance without clinical symptoms or complications. Based on the unique medical experience of a patient we treated, we witnessed the whole process from asymptomatic diagnosis to the appearance and gradual worsening of symptoms. This closely observed course of clinical symptom evolution provides principle clinical evidence for the early diagnosis and treatment of BCs.
The neurophysiologic landscape of the sleep onset: a systematic review

Background The sleep onset process is an ill-defined complex process of transition from wakefulness to sleep, characterized by progressive modifications at the subjective, behavioural, cognitive, and physiological levels. To this date, there is no international consensus which could aid a principled characterisation of this process for clinical research purposes. The current review aims to systemise the current knowledge about the underlying mechanisms of the natural heterogeneity of this process. Methods In this systematic review, studies investigating the process of the sleep onset from 1970 to 2022 were identified using electronic database searches of PsychINFO, MEDLINE, and Embase. Results A total of 139 studies were included; 110 studies in healthy participants and 29 studies in participants with sleep disorders. Overall, there is a limited consensus across a body of research about what distinct biomarkers of the sleep onset constitute. Only sparse data exists on the physiology, neurophysiology and behavioural mechanisms of the sleep onset, with majority of studies concentrating on the non-rapid eye movement stage 2 (NREM 2) as a potentially better defined and a more reliable time point that separates sleep from the wake, on the sleep wake continuum. Conclusions The neurophysiologic landscape of sleep onset bears a complex pattern associated with a multitude of behavioural and physiological markers and remains poorly understood. The methodological variation and a heterogenous definition of the wake-sleep transition in various studies to date is understandable, given that sleep onset is a process that has fluctuating and ill-defined boundaries. Nonetheless, the principled characterisation of the sleep onset process is needed which will allow for a greater conceptualisation of the mechanisms underlying this process, further influencing the efficacy of current treatments for sleep disorders.
Olmesartan medoxomil loaded niosomal gel for buccal delivery: Formulation, optimization, and ex vivo studies

Objective: Olmesartan medoxomil (OLM) is a low bioavailability antihypertensive drug. This study was aimed to prepare and optimize an OLM niosomal gel and investigate the drug permeation via a chicken buccal pouch. Methods: OLM loaded niosomes were prepared using a film hydration technique. The vesicle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and percentage cumulative drug release of niosomes were evaluated. The niosomes were incorporated into a Carbopol 974P (1.5 % w/v) gel and drug permeability of niosomal gel was evaluated. The formulations of the niosomal gel were optimized using the Box-Behnken design. The optimized formulation was further characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and FTIR analysis. Results: The particle size and zeta potentials of optimized niosomal formulations were found to be 296.4 nm and -38.4 mV, respectively. Based on TEM analysis, the niosomes were found spherical in shape. The permeability, flux, and permeability coefficient of optimized niosomal gel was found to be 0.507 mg/cm 2 , 0.083 mg/cm 2 × h, 041 cm/h, respectively. The histopathology evaluation revealed that the niosomal gel had better permeability compared to OLM gel. Conclusion: Based on the results of the OLM niosomal gel, it can be concluded that the formulation can be beneficial in increasing the bioavailability, resulting in better therapeutic efficacy.
EFL Students’ Perspectives on Activities Designed for Asynchronous Discussion Forums: Transformative Practices

The current study aimed to examine the perspectives of EFL students regarding the types of pedagogical activities they found engaging while using asynchronous discussion forums (ADF), as well as the practices of educators in encouraging the participation of their students. An interview with ten university students who were enrolled in an English language methodology course was used to construct data. The results of the study revealed that university students preferred open-ended activities to knowledge-based tasks such as quizzes or direct tasks. They found open-ended activities to be more challenging and engaging. The results also unveiled that the participants of the study expressed appreciation for tutors who provided clear instructions for tasks uploaded on the online discussion forum. They also valued the tutors who motivated them and offered constructive feedback. These factors were crucial in enhancing students’ engagement and participation in ADF. Based on these results, the study recommends empowering tutors with the skills and knowledge necessary to design engaging assignments that align with students’ expectations and provide them with direct and constructive feedback that would enhance ensuing research.
An Experimental Biotelemetric Study Based on Satellite Tracking During Post—nesting Migrations of Green Turtles

A biotelemetry experiment is conducted to study the migrant behavior of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) in South China Sea and acquire the physical environment data. The method in use is to track the post-nesting migrant routes of green turtles through the satellite linked transmitters attached on the back of turtles and the global satellite signal transmitting system of Argos. We obtained the posinestions of the post-nesting migrant routes of three green turtles and environment data, which are important in conservation of green turtles and the research of physical oceanography. Based on the test, the concept, principle and method of biotelemetry are also introduced in this paper with a discussion of the further development of this technique and its applying prospection in future.
Colletotrichum siamense, a Novel Causal Agent of Viburnum odoratissimum Leaf Blotch and Its Sensitivity to Fungicides

Viburnum odoratissimum Ker-Gawl is native to Asia and is usually used as a garden ornamental. In September 2022, a leaf blotch on V. odoratissimum was observed in Nanjing, Jiangsu, China. The disease causes the leaves of the plants to curl and dry up and defoliate early. It not only seriously affects the growth of the plants but also greatly reduces the ornamental value. The pathogenic fungus was isolated from the diseased leaves, and the fungus was identified to be Colletotrichum siamense based on morphological features and multilocus phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, actin (ACT), calmodulin (CAL), beta-tubulin 2 (TUB2), chitin synthase (CHS-1), Apn2-Mat1-2 intergenic spacer and partial mating type (ApMat), and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) genes. Pathogenicity tests were performed by inoculating healthy leaves with conidia. C. siamense can grow at 15–35 °C, with an optimal growth temperature at 25–30 °C. The results of sensitivity to nine fungicides showed that C. siamense was the most sensitive to prochloraz in the concentration range of 0.01 μg/mL to 100 μg/mL. Therefore, spraying prochloraz before the optimum growth temperature of pathogenic fungus can achieve effective control. It provided useful information for future studies on the prevention and treatment strategies of C. siamense. This is the first report of leaf blotch caused by C. siamense on V. odoratissimum in China and worldwide.
Side Hole Packaged Shell-Encapsulated Etched FBG Hydrophone

An underwater acoustic sensor based on side hole packaged (SHP) shell-encapsulated etched fiber Bragg grating (eFBG) has been developed and demonstrated. The packaged shell cavity provides enhancement of acoustic sensitivity as well as better mechanical protection to eFBG. First, the acoustically driven mechanical behavior of SHP-FBG hydrophone configurations has been characterized using the finite element method (FEM) simulation model. The FEM parametric analysis enables the proper selection of hydrophone’s resonant frequency by a suitable choice of the SHP length. Based on the simulations, the SHP shell-encapsulated eFBG hydrophone is fabricated and experimentally characterized over the frequency range of 0.7–2.4 kHz; a very good responsivity of $\sim $ 210 nm/MPa has been obtained.
A sense of proximity: Cell packing modulates oxygen consumption

Accurately modeling oxygen transport and consumption is crucial to predict metabolic dynamics in cell cultures and optimize the design of tissue and organ models. We present a methodology to characterize the Michaelis–Menten oxygen consumption parameters in vitro, integrating novel experimental techniques and computational tools. The parameters were derived for hepatic cell cultures with different dimensionality (i.e., 2D and 3D) and with different surface and volumetric densities. To quantify cell packing regardless of the dimensionality of cultures, we devised an image-based metric, referred to as the proximity index. The Michaelis–Menten parameters were related to the proximity index through an uptake coefficient, analogous to a diffusion constant, enabling the quantitative analysis of oxygen dynamics across dimensions. Our results show that Michaelis–Menten parameters are not constant for a given cell type but change with dimensionality and cell density. The maximum consumption rate per cell decreases significantly with cell surface and volumetric density, while the Michaelis–Menten constant tends to increase. In addition, the dependency of the uptake coefficient on the proximity index suggests that the oxygen consumption rate of hepatic cells is superadaptive, as they modulate their oxygen utilization according to its local availability and to the proximity of other cells. We describe, for the first time, how cells consume oxygen as a function of cell proximity, through a quantitative index, which combines cell density and dimensionality. This study enhances our understanding of how cell–cell interaction affects oxygen dynamics and enables better prediction of aerobic metabolism in tissue models, improving their translational value.
Hydrogen Peroxide Inhibits Hepatitis B Virus Replication by Downregulating HBx Levels via Siah-1-Mediated Proteasomal Degradation in Human Hepatoma Cells

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is constantly exposed to significant oxidative stress characterized by elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as H2O2, during infection in hepatocytes of patients. In this study, we demonstrated that H2O2 inhibits HBV replication in a p53-dependent fashion in human hepatoma cell lines expressing sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide. Interestingly, H2O2 failed to inhibit the replication of an HBV X protein (HBx)-null HBV mutant, but this defect was successfully complemented by ectopic expression of HBx. Additionally, H2O2 upregulated p53 levels, leading to increased expression of seven in absentia homolog 1 (Siah-1) levels. Siah-1, an E3 ligase, induced the ubiquitination-dependent proteasomal degradation of HBx. The inhibitory effect of H2O2 was nearly abolished not only by treatment with a representative antioxidant, N-acetyl-L-cysteine but also by knockdown of either p53 or Siah-1 using specific short hairpin RNA, confirming the role of p53 and Siah-1 in the inhibition of HBV replication by H2O2. The present study provides insights into the mechanism that regulates HBV replication under conditions of oxidative stress in patients.
Schisantherin A alleviated alcohol-induced liver injury by the regulation of alcohol metabolism and NF-kB pathway

Schisantherin A (SinA), one of the most abundant active ingredients of Schisandra chinensis, was reported to protect and benefit the liver, however, its effect on alcohol-induced liver injury (ALI) was still not clear. In the present study, an ALI mice model was induced by feeding mice an alcohol-containing liquid diet for four weeks. Then, 100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg SinA was administered to mice every day by gavage for the last two weeks. Histopathological analysis showed that alcohol-induced liver lipid vacuoles were reduced by SinA. The activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST, 61.90 ± 14.65 vs. 93.65 ± 20.50, 50.46 ± 13.21 vs. 93.65 ± 20.50) and alanine transaminase (ALT, 41.29 ± 9.20 vs. 64.04 ± 18.13, 36.52 ± 7.71 vs. 64.04 ± 18.13) in the serum of ALI mice were significantly reduced by 100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg SinA when compared with control mice. Alcohol-induced oxidative stress and the inflammatory response in the liver were suppressed by SinA in a dose-dependent manner. Meanwhile, treatment with SinA decreased alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activity and increased acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity in ALI mice. Alcohol-induced upregulation of CYP2E1 and CYP1A2 in the liver was inhibited by SinA. Further, SinA suppressed activation of the NF-kB pathway in ALI mice. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that SinA is able to protect against ALI, and this may be, at least in part, caused by regulation of alcohol metabolism and the NF-kB pathway. Our data suggest a therapeutic potential of SinA in the treatment of ALI.