Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Polyphenols in Oral Health: Homeostasis Maintenance, Disease Prevention, and Therapeutic Applications

Polyphenols, a class of bioactive compounds with phenolic structures, are abundant in human diets. They have gained attention in biomedical fields due to their beneficial properties, including antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, polyphenols can prevent multiple chronic or infectious diseases and may help in the prevention of oral diseases. Oral health is crucial to our well-being, and maintaining a healthy oral microbiome is essential for preventing various dental and systemic diseases. However, the mechanisms by which polyphenols modulate the oral microbiota and contribute to oral health are still not fully understood, and the application of polyphenol products lies in different stages. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements in understanding polyphenols’ effects on oral health: dental caries, periodontal diseases, halitosis, and oral cancer. The mechanisms underlying the preventive and therapeutic effects of polyphenols derived from dietary sources are discussed, and new findings from animal models and clinical trials are included, highlighting the latest achievements. Given the great application potential of these natural compounds, novel approaches to dietary interventions and oral disease treatments may emerge. Moreover, investigating polyphenols combined with different materials presents promising opportunities for developing innovative therapeutic strategies in the treatment of oral diseases.
Skeletal Muscle Compliance and Echogenicity in Resistance-Trained and Nontrained Women

Abstract Mongold, SJ, Ricci, AW, Hahn, ME, and Callahan, DM. Skeletal muscle compliance and echogenicity in resistance-trained and nontrained women. J Strength Cond Res 38(4): 671–680, 2024—Noninvasive assessment of muscle mechanical properties in clinical and performance settings tends to rely on manual palpation and emphasizes examination of musculotendinous stiffness. However, measurement standards are highly subjective. The purpose of the study was to compare musculotendinous stiffness in adult women with varying resistance training history while exploring the use of multiple tissue compliance measures. We identified relationships between tissue stiffness and morphology, and tested the hypothesis that combining objective measures of morphology and stiffness would better predict indices of contractile performance. Resistance-trained (RT) women (n = 11) and nontrained (NT) women (n = 10) participated in the study. Muscle echogenicity and morphology were measured using B-mode ultrasonography (US). Vastus lateralis (VL) and patellar tendon (PT) stiffness were measured using digital palpation and US across submaximal isometric contractions. Muscle function was evaluated during maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) of the knee extensors (KEs). Resistance trained had significantly greater PT stiffness and reduced echogenicity (p < 0.01). Resistance trained also had greater strength per body mass (p < 0.05). Muscle echogenicity was strongly associated with strength and rate of torque development (RTD). Patellar tendon passive stiffness was associated with RTD normalized to MVIC (RTDrel; r = 0.44, p < 0.05). Patellar tendon stiffness was greater in RT young women. No predictive models of muscle function incorporated both stiffness and echogenicity. Because RTDrel is a clinically relevant measure of rehabilitation in athletes and can be predicted by digital palpation, this might represent a practical and objective measure in settings where RTD may not be easy to measure directly.
Hydrodynamic modelling of some metamorphic processes

A B S T R A C T The P-T paths for metamorphic complexes from the Precambrian shields and fold belts of different ages may result from advection, i.e. one-cycle convective processes in the lithosphere. This conclusion has been exemplified by the metamorphic evolution of several well-known complexes, for which an advective model can be successfully applied. Numerical simulations of the above processes in terms of Newtonian rheology by using a two-dimensional finite element program have been conducted. Two representative models for intracontinental gravitational ordering initiated presumably by mantle activity are considered: (i) a thermally activated multi-layered rhythmic sequence and (ii) huge rising diapiars causing circulation, in which crustal lithologies underwent high-P metamorphism (above 10-15 kbar) and subsequent ascent toward the Earth's surface.
Modeling and quanti?fication of patterns of salinity, mixing and subtidal flow in estuaries, the role of river discharge and tidal forcing

An estuary is a partially enclosed body of water along the coast where freshwater from river meets and mixes with salt water from the ocean. In this research study, significant aspects of estuarine physics, such as saltwater intrusion, stratification, vertical mixing and subtidal flow, are investigated. Obtaining more scientific knowledge about these physical processes occurring in estuarine regions, is essential for the preservation of natural environment and improvement of economic activity. Specifically, it is investigated how saltwater intrusion, degree of stratification and vertical mixing depend on tidal forcing (S2 tide) and river discharge is investigated, using a numerical model. Results are interpreted in terms of physical mechanisms that generate salt transport and subtidal flow. Further analysis is made regarding the subtidal flow generated inside the estuary by asymmetric mixing during the tidal cycle. The latter is represented by covariance between time-varying vertical mixing and vertical shear (CMS). Subtidal flow due to CMS is, in both cases investigated, up-estuary in the surface layer and down-estuary in the bottom layer. The most interesting result is that, subtidal flow is not only generated by CMS due to S2 tide (tidal straining), but also by CMS due to S4 tide.
Performance Evaluation of Rain Attenuation Models in a Tropical Station

The non-uniformity of rainfall in both the horizontal and vertical directions makes the estimation of slant path attenuation complex. At frequencies above 10 GHz, the effects of attenuation and noise induced by rain are quite significant. One year satellite attenuation data were sourced from Malaysia East Asia Satellite at Ku frequency band; using ASTRO beacon signals to monitor and measure the slant path rain rate and attenuation at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai. Four years’ one minute rain rate ground data at 0.01% of time exceeded were collected using rain gauge. The attenuation exceeded for other percentages of the time was obtained using statistical methods. Different rain attenuation prediction models were investigated and their performances compared. The validation results clearly suggested that the Breakpoint attenuation prediction model produced better results when compared with other models of interest. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.11591/ijece.v4i5. 6583
A simulation of the enrichment of atmospheric pollutants in snow cover runoff

The soluble impurities contained in a snow cover can be concentrated as much as five fold in the first fractions of snowmelt runoff. In addition, daily impurity surges are possible. Melt-freeze cycles concentrate the impurities in the lower portion of the snow cover, hence preparing the impurities for rapid removal. Environmental damage can occur due to the concentration and rapid release of atmospheric pollutants from the snow, especially in areas of ‘acid precipitation. ’ The enrichment of the soluble impurities is explained and the results of laboratory experiments are given.
Modulatory Properties of Aloe secundiflora’s Methanolic Extracts on Targeted Genes in Colorectal Cancer Management

Simple Summary This study focused on understanding the potential use of Aloe secundiflora (AS) extracts in managing colorectal cancer (CRC). As colon tumors present complex challenges, the research aimed to assess how the AS methanolic extracts impacted the expression of specific genes related to CRC, namely CASPS9, 5-LOX, Bcl2, Bcl-xL, and COX-2. The results demonstrated that the AS extracts, when applied to CRC cell lines, effectively upregulated CASPS9 expression, promoting apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Simultaneously, the extracts downregulated the expressions of 5-LOX, Bcl2, and Bcl-xL, crucial in curbing cancer progression. The study suggests that using AS extracts and methanol as an extraction solvent could be beneficial in managing CRC. Furthermore, the researchers recommend exploring the specific metabolites in AS involved in these pathways to better understand how they impede the development and spread of CRC. This research provides promising insights into potential natural treatments for colorectal cancer, offering hope for improved therapies in the future. Abstract Colon tumors have a very complicated and poorly understood pathogenesis. Plant-based organic compounds might provide a novel source for cancer treatment with a sufficient novel mode of action. The objective of this study was to analyze and evaluate the efficacy of Aloe secundiflora’s (AS) methanolic extracts on the expression of CASPS9, 5-LOX, Bcl2, Bcl-xL, and COX-2 in colorectal cancer (CRC) management. Caco-2 cell lines were used in the experimental study. In the serial exhaustive extraction (SEE) method, methanol was utilized as the extraction solvent. Upon treatment of CASPS9 with the methanolic extracts, the expression of the genes was progressively upregulated, thus, dose-dependently increasing the rate of apoptosis. On the other hand, the expressions of 5-LOX, Bcl2, and Bcl-xL were variably downregulated in a dose-dependent manner. This is a unique novel study that evaluated the effects of AS methanolic extracts in vitro on CRC cell lines using different dosage concentrations. We, therefore, recommend the utilization of AS and the application of methanol as the extraction solvent of choice for maximum modulatory benefits in CRC management. In addition, we suggest research on the specific metabolites in AS involved in the modulatory pathways that suppress the development of CRC and potential metastases.
Surface-Guided Radiotherapy: Can We Move on from the Era of Three-Point Markers to the New Era of Thousands of Points?

The surface-guided radiotherapy (SGRT) technique improves patient positioning with submillimeter accuracy compared with the conventional positioning technique of lasers using three-point tattoos. SGRT provides solutions to considerations that arise from the conventional setup technique, such as variability in tattoo position and the psychological impact of the tattoos. Moreover, SGRT provides monitoring of intrafractional motion. Purpose: This literature review covers the basics of SGRT systems and examines whether SGRT can replace the traditional positioning technique. In addition, it investigates SGRT’s potential in reducing positioning times, factors affecting SGRT accuracy, the effectiveness of live monitoring, and the impact on patient dosage. Materials and Methods: This study focused on papers published from 2016 onward that compared SGRT with the traditional positioning technique and investigated factors affecting SGRT accuracy and effectiveness. Results/Conclusions: SGRT provides the same or better results regarding patient positioning. The implementation of SGRT can reduce overall treatment time. It is an effective technique for detecting intrafraction patient motion, improving treatment accuracy and precision, and creating a safe and comfortable environment for the patient during treatment.
Investors’ images of the stock market:

This research studies antecedents and consequences of stock market image, defined as the sum of impressions about the stock market. It seeks to understand how several personality-oriented, cognition-based, and demographic variables influence investors’ images of the stock market and how these images impact investing behaviors and outcomes. The findings from cross-sectionalsurvey data suggest an individual’s financial literacy, propensity to trust, and sociability are important antecedents of his or her perceptions about the stock market. The data also show that stock market image affects investing motives, risk reduction efforts, emotional responses, and degree of satisfaction associated with investing.
Compatibilizers Effect on Recycled Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubber with Polypropylene and Sugarcane Bagasse Composite for Mechanical Properties

Compatibilizers effect on recycled acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBRr) with polypropylene (PP) and sugarcane bagasse (SCB) composite for mechanical properties is evaluated. Trans-Polyoctylene Rubber (TOR) and Bisphenol a Diglycidyl Ether (DGEBA) are used as compatibilizers in this study. Three (3) different composites (80/20/15, 60/40/15, and 40/60/15), with fixed filler (15 phr) and compatibilizers (10 phr) content, were carried out. These composites were arranged via melt mixing technique utilizing a heated two-roll mill at a temperature of 180°C for 9 minutes employing a 15-rpm rotor speed. Tensile and morphological properties were evaluated. The result shown average tensile strength dropped by 48.50% as the recycle NBR content rises 20 phr. Nevertheless, subsequent compatibilization reveals that the composites’ tensile properties were all greater than control composites. The morphology discovered validates the tensile properties, indicating a stronger interaction between the PP/SCB and recycle NBR composites with the addition of compatibilizer DGEBA.
Cephalopod research in the eastern Mediterranean (East of 23°E): a review.

This study presents an overview of cephalopod research carried out in the Mediterranean Sea, East of 23°E, i.e., in the Levant basin, the Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara. Relevant studies focused on systematics, zoogeographical distribution, fisheries, reproductive biology, larval development, and stomach contents analyses. Riassunto Il presente lavoro propone una sinossi della ricerca teutologica condotta nel Mediterraneo orientale, a est del meridiano 23°E, vale a dire nel bacino di Levante, nel Mar Egeo e nel Mare di Marmara, a partire da Aristotele. Ricerche sistematiche sulla teutofauna di quest’area sono state svolte a far capo dai primi anni ’90. I piu importanti studi sono stati rivolti alla sistematica, alla distribuzione geografica, alla scienza della pesca, alla biologia della riproduzione, allo sviluppo larvale e all’analisi dei contenuti stomacali di predatori teutofagi. In totale, fino a oggi sono stati registrati nel distretto geografico in questione 54 specie di cefalopodi: 4 sepiidi, 13 sepiolidi, 23 teutidi e 14 ottopodi. Un rilievo particolare e rivestito dai migranti lessepsiani provenienti da Mar Rosso (il sepiide Sepia pharaonis, il teutide Sepioteuthis lessoniana e gli ottopodi Octopus cf. aegina/kagoshimensis e Octopus cyanea), le cui prime segnalazioni mediterranee sono occorse proprio nel bacino orientale. In una tabella riassuntiva, e riportato l’elenco delle specie del Mediterraneo orientale, con le referenze bibliografiche attinenti e il relativo soggetto di studio.
The impacts of temperature and the urban heat island on mortality in the West Midlands and greater London

Although the direct health impact of temperature has been studied extensively, the impact of Urban Heat Island (UHI) on mortality has received relatively little attention. This PhD thesis assesses the combined impacts to distinguish the differential responses between urban and rural residents in the West Midlands and Greater London. On the basis of comparison between MIDAS air temperature and MODIS land surface temperature, air UHI intensity (aUHII) and surface UHI intensity (sUHII) are compared during cloudless anticyclonic nights. The results identify the UHI ‘hotspots’ and stronger summer night-time UHI; Greater London possesses stronger aUHII-sUHII correlation (r~0.7) than the West Midlands (r~0.4). U-shaped temperature-mortality relationships using fractional polynomial regression model demonstrate that the decreased winter mortality may outweigh the increased summer mortality for the West Midlands, whereas London's increased summer mortality is more significant, particularly among the vulnerable 75+ people. This research has identified for the first time the quantitative relationships between aUHII and mortality. Overall increasing trends imply the increased impact of urban heating on mortality. These research findings could form the basis for a better understanding of temperature (UHI)-related impacts on human health that will aid policy development to maximise health benefits and minimise the negative consequences.
The m6A reader YTHDF2 alleviates the inflammatory response by inhibiting IL-6R/JAK2/STAT1 pathway-mediated high-mobility group box-1 release

Abstract Background Sepsis is a common severe complication in major burn victims and is characterized by a dysregulated systemic response to inflammation. YTH domain family 2 (YTHDF2), a well-studied N6-methyladenosine (m6A) reader that specifically recognizes and binds to m6A-modified transcripts to mediate their degradation, is connected to pathogenic and physiological processes in eukaryotes, but its effect on sepsis is still unknown. We aimed to discover the effects and mechanisms of YTHDF2 in sepsis. Methods Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blot analyses were used to measure the expression of YTHDF2, the interleukin 6 receptor (IL-6R), high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1), Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) under different in vitro conditions. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were utilized to evaluate the expression of HMGB1, IL-6, IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α. To confirm that YTHDF2 specifically targets IL-6R mRNA, RNA immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays were performed. Finally, we utilized a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis to verify the effects of YTHDF2 in vivo. Results According to our findings, YTHDF2 was expressed at a low level in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from septic mice and patients as well as in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells. Overexpression of YTHDF2 alleviated the inflammatory response by inhibiting HMGB1 release and JAK2/STAT1 signalling in LPS-stimulated cells. Mechanistically, YTHDF2 suppressed JAK2/STAT1 signalling by directly recognizing the m6A-modified site in IL-6R and decreasing the stability of IL-6R mRNA, thereby inhibiting HMGB1 release. In vivo experiments showed that YTHDF2 played a protective role in septic mice by suppressing the IL-6R/JAK2/STAT1/HMGB1 axis. Conclusions In summary, these findings demonstrate that YTHDF2 plays an essential role as an inhibitor of inflammation to reduce the release of HMGB1 by inhibiting the IL-6R/JAK2/STAT1 pathway, indicating that YTHDF2 is a novel target for therapeutic interventions in sepsis.
The Association of Australian Winter Climate with Ocean Temperatures to the West

Abstract Two general circulation model experiments have been conducted with a view toward determining the sensitivity of Australian winter circulation and precipitation to the imposition of idealized sea surface temperature anomalies around the western half of Australia. In the first, a positive anomaly was imposed to the northwest of the continent and a negative anomaly to the southwest, while in the second this pattern was reversed. In the former, major changes were simulated in the circulation over the Australian sector, and significant precipitation increases were induced over more than half of the continent. By contrast, the responses to the forcing in the latter experiment were considerably less, particularly for precipitation over the continent, which showed virtually no change of significance. The results, taken in concert with those of Simmonds, suggest the important role played by warm ocean temperatures to the northwest of Australia in influencing winter rainfall. The results suggest that the a.
Grenvillian massif-type anorthosites in the Sierras Pampeanas

We report the discovery of massif-type anorthosites in the Andean basement of the Western Sierras Pampeanas of Argentina. U–Pb zircon dating (by sensitive high-resolution ion microprobe) of a cogenetic gabbronorite dyke yields ages of 1070 ± 41 Ma for igneous emplacement and 431 ± 40 Ma for metamorphism. These anorthosites are petrologically and geochemically comparable with those of the Grenville province of Laurentia. Palaeogeographical reconstructions of Rodinia at 1.0–1.1 Ga suggest that the Sierras Pampeanas anorthosites were part of a large anorthosite province in the late Mesoproterozoic.
Intercontinental transport and its influence on the ozone concentrations over central Europe: Three case studies

[1] In this paper we report on a detailed analysis of the first clear observation of ozone import from North America in the free troposphere over central Europe in May 1996 and of two more recent cases of transatlantic transport. The analysis is based on calculations with the FLEXTRA trajectory model and the FLEXPART tracer model and data from Measurements of Ozone and Water Vapor by Airbus In-Service Aircraft (MOZAIC) flights and North American surface sites. Lidar measurements carried out under conditions of developing anticyclonicity at Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, consistently yield peak ozone mixing ratios in the middle and upper troposphere between 80 and 110 ppb during the warm season. These layers are traced back to North America by FLEXTRA trajectories. The prevailing transport pathway involves a warm conveyor belt exporting high amounts of ozone, formed during a prefrontal high-ozone episode, from the central part of the eastern United States to the upper troposphere. The polluted air may enter central Europe above an airstream descending from the stratosphere, thus inverting the normal atmospheric stratification, with stratospheric air at low levels and boundary layer air in the upper troposphere. However, the first two cases studied in this paper show that the export from the eastern United States may arrive over Europe at times prior to the onset of the anticyclonic conditions. Analysis of these cases reveals the complexity of the air export from North America. The ozone maxima occurring during the observational periods are traced back to the planetary boundary layer (PBL) in other source areas in the United States. Some of them are related to entrainments even from source areas beyond North America, either in the stratosphere or in Asia. The third case is quite different in its advection pathway, with almost straight and horizontal advection at 6 to 8 km above sea level starting from the Great Lakes area. A positive correlation between ozone and aerosol in that layer verifies the presence of PBL air. However, the very high ozone mixing ratio (up to 130 ppb) and an anticorrelation of ozone and humidity suggest the entrainment of another component from long-range transport in the upper troposphere from beyond North America. In two of the case studies the export from the PBL was presumably influenced by large-scale convection.