Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparison of compositional MRI techniques to quantify the regenerative potential of articular cartilage: a preclinical minipig model after osteochondral defect treatments with autologous mesenchymal stromal cells and unseeded scaffolds

Background The field of orthopedics seeks effective, safer methods for evaluating articular cartilage regeneration. Despite various treatment innovations, non-invasive, contrast-free full quantitative assessments of hyaline articular cartilage’s regenerative potential using compositional magnetic resonance (MR) sequences remain challenging. In this context, our aim was to investigate the effectiveness of different MR sequences for quantitative assessment of cartilage and to compare them with the current gold standard delayed gadolinium-enhanced MR imaging of cartilage (dGEMRIC) measurements. Methods We employed ex vivo imaging in a preclinical minipig model to assess knee cartilage regeneration. Standardized osteochondral defects were drilled in the proximal femur of the specimens (n=14), which were divided into four groups. Porcine collagen scaffolds seeded with autologous adipose-derived stromal cells (ASC), autologous bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC), and unseeded scaffolds (US) were implanted in femoral defects. Furthermore, there was a defect group which received no treatment. After 6 months, the specimens were examined using different compositional MR methods, including the gold standard dGEMRIC as well as T1, T2, T2*, and T1ρ techniques. The statistical evaluation involved comparing the defect region with the uninjured tibia and femur cartilage layers and all measurements were performed on a clinical 3T MR Scanner. Results In the untreated defect group, we observed significant differences in the defect region, with dGEMRIC values significantly lower (404.86±64.2 ms, P=0.018) and T2 times significantly higher (44.24±2.75 ms, P<0.001). Contrastingly, in all three treatment groups (ASC, BMSC, US), there were no significant differences among the three regions in the dGEMRIC sequence, suggesting successful cartilage regeneration. However, T1, T2*, and T1ρ sequences failed to detect such differences, highlighting their lower sensitivity for cartilage regeneration. Conclusions As expected, dGEMRIC is well suited for monitoring cartilage regeneration. Interestingly, T2 imaging also proved to be a reliable cartilage imaging technique and thus offers a contrast agent-free alternative to the former gold standard for subsequent in vivo studies investigating the cartilage regeneration potential of different treatment modalities.
Microbial Fuel Cells and Microbial Electrolyzers

M icrobial fuel cells are electrochemical devices that use microbes as catalysts instead of inorganic catalysts to drive the anodic and/or cathodic reactions to produce electricity.1 The field of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) was initially focused on wastewater treatment, but has evolved into a much more diverse field of research called Bioelectrochemical Systems (BES). Microbial electrolyzers or microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) are a different manifestation of BES that generate hydrogen using less than half the voltage or electrical energy needed for conventional water electrolysis. The reduced electrical input is enabled by the chemical energy that comes from organic or reduced inorganic substrates that serve as the feedstock for hydrogen production in MECs. Electrons are extracted from the substrates and converted into hydrogen at the cathode, operating at room temperature. The cathode catalysts can be metal-based or biological in nature. Figure 1 shows a generalized configuration of the BES. The versatility of the BES platform shown in the figure illustrates the potential of this approach to produce not only electricity and hydrogen but also biofuels, chemicals and bioproducts.
Big data- and machine learning-based analysis of a global pharmacovigilance database enables the discovery of sex-specific differences in the safety profile of dual IL4/IL13 blockade

Background: Due to its apparent efficacy and safety, dupilumab, a monoclonal antibody that blocks Interleukin 4 (IL-4) and Interleukin 13 (IL-13), has been approved for treating T-helper 2 (Th2) disorders. However, adverse effects like local injection site reactions, conjunctivitis, headaches, and nasopharyngitis have been reported. Sex differences are known to influence both adaptive and innate immune responses and, thus, may have a bearing on the occurrence of these adverse effects. Nevertheless, the literature lacks a comprehensive exploration of this influence, a gap this study aims to bridge. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive data mining of VigiBase, the World Health Organization (WHO) global pharmacovigilance database which contains case safety reports of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) was performed to test for sex -specific safety response to dual IL4/IL13 blockade by dupilumab. The information component (IC), a measure of the disproportionality of ADR occurrence, was evaluated and compared between males and females to identify potential sexual dimorphism. Results: Of the 94,065 ADRs recorded in the WHO global pharmacovigilance database, 2,001 (57.4%) were reported among female dupilumab users, and 1,768 (50.7%) were among males. Immune/autoimmune T-helper 1 (Th1)-, innate- and T-helper 17 (Th17)-driven diseases and degenerative ones were consistently reported with a stronger association with Dupilumab in males than females. Some adverse events were more robustly associated with Dupilumab in females. Conclusion: Dupilumab has an excellent safety profile, even though some ADRs may occur. The risk is higher among male patients, further studies, including ad hoc studies, are needed to establish causality.
Effects of social networks on livelihoods in exile and return: the case of Southern Sudanese refugees in Kenya

Most studies about refugees in Africa often focus on the desperate circumstances that forced migrants find themselves in, and therefore often highlight the poor quality of and gaps in humanitarian assistance. Conventional findings therefore always emphasize vulnerability and dependence on aid, but hardly account for how refugees and returnees fulfill their unmet needs. This study identified diverse types of social networks of Southern Sudanese refugees and returnees and assessed how the resources accessed through them affect livelihoods in exile and upon return. The findings reveal that refugees have innovatively established and utilized their local, regional and trans-national networks to cushion themselves from livelihood shocks, improve their living conditions, and develop their human and social capital for immediate and longer-term livelihood security. Based on these, the paper makes a case for evaluating, recognizing and supporting self-help groups, associations and initiatives among forced migrants as this is an empowering and sustainable strategy for addressing their short and long-term livelihood needs.
Conservative Management of Acute Lateral Ligaments of the Ankle Injuries: An Analytical Literature Review

Injuries to the lateral ligaments of the ankle are among the most frequent sporting injuries. These injuries constitute a significant portion of all sports-related injuries. Nearly all cases involve damage to either the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) or the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL). While they are generally considered to be mild injuries, without adequate rehabilitation and treatment, these injuries often result in lingering symptoms for many patients for a period ranging from 6 weeks to 18 months. Subsequently, this analysis seeks to assess the non-surgical, conservative approaches currently employed in managing lateral ligament injuries of the ankle. Therefore, this assessment explores the variations and effectiveness of conservative treatment approaches based on the injury's severity and the mechanisms of trauma. The study conducted an analytical literature review that relied on diverse sources, including orthopedic books, e-books, articles, journals, and internet databases, to accomplish this. The main sources were obtained from reputable databases such as UpToDate, NCBI, and PubMed. Collectively, these sources provide definitions, outlines, evaluations, and discussions related to the topic. As such, they facilitated the formulation of an informed conclusion on the approach to treating lateral ligament injuries of the ankle complex. The reviewed literature shows that early and effective initial treatment involving pain management, prompt resumption of weight-bearing activities, limited immobilisation, and targeted physical therapy yields favorable outcomes for minor-grade sprains and is an effective preventive measure against recurrent injuries. Accordingly, athletes who experience regular ankle sprains should consider prophylactic bracing or taping to lower the risk of re-injury while enhancing their functionality. Notably, the existing functional and conservative management methods demonstrate and yield positive post-treatment outcomes. Nonetheless, the efficiency and effectiveness of these treatments depend on the specific nature of the injury and the unique traits of the individuals who sustain it. Consequently, these factors must be considered for when determining the appropriate treatment approach.
T2SS-peptidase XcpA associated with LasR evolutional phenotypic variations provides a fitness advantage to Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1

The Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa possesses hierarchical quorum sensing (QS) systems. The intricate QS network of P. aeruginosa synchronizes a suite of virulence factors, contributing to the mortality and morbidity linked to the pathogenicity of this bacterium. Previous studies have revealed that variations in the lasR gene are frequently observed in chronic isolates of cystic fibrosis (CF). Specifically, LasRQ45stop was identified as a common variant among CF, lasR mutants during statistical analysis of the clinical lasR mutants in the database. In this study, we introduced LasRQ45stop into the chromosome of P. aeruginosa PAO1 through allelic replacement. The social traits of PAO1 LasRQ45stop were found to be equivalent to those of PAO1 LasR-null isolates. By co-evolving with the wild-type in caseinate broth, elastase-phenotypic-variability variants were derived from the LasRQ45stop subpopulation. Upon further examination of four LasRQ45stop sublines, we determined that the variation of T2SS-peptidase xcpA and mexT genes plays a pivotal role in the divergence of various phenotypes, including public goods elastase secretion and other pathogenicity traits. Furthermore, XcpA mutants demonstrated a fitness advantage compared to parent strains during co-evolution. Numerous phenotypic variations were associated with subline-specific genetic alterations. Collectively, these findings suggest that even within the same parental subline, there is ongoing microevolution of individual mutational trajectory diversity during adaptation.
Exercise training upregulates intracellular nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase expression in humans: a systematic review with meta-analysis

Objective Aging is associated with decreased nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) levels, which in turn cause dysfunctional mitochondria and indirectly affect a myriad of diseases. Intracellular nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (iNAMPT) serves as a central rate-limiting enzyme in NAD synthesis, making it an indispensable health mediator. This meta-analysis examined the effect of exercise training on the expression of iNAMPT in humans. Methods We searched PubMed, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform for studies published between the inception of the database and July 5, 2023. Using the common-effect model, evidence for the change in iNAMPT following exercise training was synthesized as Cohen’s d. Results The search yielded five eligible studies. The overall effect size is 0.81, with a 95% confidence interval of 0.55 to 1.07. Therefore, a random adult will have a 71.7% probability that iNAMPT will be up-regulated following exercise training. In general, exercise training resulted in a 1.46-fold increase in iNAMPT. Our probability statistics indicate that subgroups of interest may differ practically. Specifically, there is a 79.3% probability of increased iNAMPT in men, compared to a 69.0% probability in the overall population; young adults have a 75.6% probability of having an increased iNAMPT, whereas aged adults have a 68.7% probability; and, iNAMPT has a 75.1% probability increase after aerobic exercise and a 66.4% probability increase after resistance exercise. Conclusion Exercise training is effective for increasing iNAMPT levels in skeletal muscles. This essential enzyme regulates not only cellular energetics but also healthspan. Therefore, exercise should be promoted as a natural slow-aging lifestyle.
Changes of Dry-wet Climate in the Dry Season in Yunnan (1961–2007)

Abstract Factor analysis was used to investigate the changes of dry-wet climate in the dry season in Yunnan during 1961–2007 based on observed data from 15 stations. Three common factors were extracted from the 9 climatic factors. The results showed that the dry-wet climate has evidently changed since the early 1960s. The general trends in the changes of dry-wet climate were described as slight decrease in humidity and gradual enhancement in drought intensity. The climate during 1960s–1980s was under weak-medium drought. But since early 1990s, dry conditions have markedly strengthened and continued due to uneven temporal distribution of rainfall and climate warming. Citation Huang, Z. , 2011: Changes of dry-wet climate in the dry season in Yunnan (1961–2007). Adv. Clim. Change Res., 2(1), doi: 10.3724/SP.J.1248.2011. 00049.
Application of Water Recovery Option for Agricultural Use in Developing Countries: Case Study of a Nigerian Community

Africa’s current population of 1 billion people is estimated to increase to 1.8 billion in 2050. This compliments the fastest growing population rate which stands at 2.4 %. Moreover, 40% of Africa’s land is semi-arid while another 27% is desert leaving a common conclusion that water is a crucial resource with tremendous implication on African development. The rapid urbanization and growing population in African cities has resulted in new water management challenges. About 85% of water in Africa is used on agriculture. Only 10% and 5% are used in households and industries respectively. The objective of this study is to appraise the different methods available for water collection, treatment and reuse for agricultural purposes in parts of Nigeria. The study involves the assessment of available methods used by farmers for the promotion of agriculture. The study deployed the use of in-depth interviews, onsite investigation and group discussions in various areas in a typical semi-urban city in southwest Nigeria. The procedure combines descriptive data on the amount of water used per day on farms, sources of the water used, purpose of the water used and the size of the farm. Results of this study showed that a comparatively large volume of water being used for agricultural sustenance is withdrawn from natural aquifer storages. This poses a challenge and threatens global effort of achieving the United Nation’s water-related Millennium Development Goals (MDG 7c) in developing countries aimed at making potable water available for millions of people. It was concluded that a sustainable, de-centralized wastewater treatment plant can be deployed for irrigation purposes in order to reduce pressure from agriculture on groundwater resources and, at the same time, encourage artificial recharge of wells. Also, adequate and efficient water management procedures which would help to overcome emerging water challenges were proposed.
Total 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Is an Independent Marker of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction in Heart Failure with Reduced and Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction

Vitamin D emerged as an important prognostic biomarker in heart failure (HF), with currently highly debated therapeutic implications. Several trials on vitamin D supplementation in HF showed improvements in left ventricular (LV) remodeling and function and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), which did not translate into mid- to long-term beneficial effects regarding physical performance and mortality. We addressed total 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), serum albumin, and uric acid (UA) levels, focusing mainly on vitamin D deficiency, as potential markers of LV systolic dysfunction in HF with reduced and mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF, HFmrEF). Seventy patients with LVEF < 50% were comprehensively evaluated using ECG, echocardiography, lung ultrasound (LUS), blood sampling, and the six-minute walk test (6MWT). HRQoL was also assessed using the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ). Statistically significant positive correlations were found between LVEF, 25(OH)D, serum UA, and albumin, respectively (p = 0.008, p = 0.009, and p = 0.001). Serum UA (7.4 ± 2.4 vs. 5.7 ± 2.1, p = 0.005), NT-proBNP levels (1090.4 (675.2–2664.9) vs. 759.0 (260.3–1474.8), p = 0.034), and MLHFQ scores (21.0 (14.0–47.0) vs. 14.5 (4.5–25.5), p = 0.012) were significantly higher, whereas 25(OH)D concentrations (17.6 (15.1–28.2) vs. 22.7 (19.5–33.8), p = 0.010) were lower in subjects with severely reduced LVEF. Also, 25(OH)D was independently associated with LVEF in univariate and multiple regression analysis, maintaining its significance even after adjusting for confounders such as age, NT-proBNP, the presence of chronic coronary syndrome, hypertension, and anemia. According to our current findings, 25(OH)D is closely associated with LVEF, further supporting the need to establish correct vitamin D supplementation schemes and dietary interventions in HF. The changes in LVEF, 25(OH)D, serum UA, and albumin levels in HFrEF and HFmrEF indicate a similar pathophysiological background.
Breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices of mothers exposed to the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative in Limpopo Province

Background. Appropriate infant feeding is crucial for growth and development of children in the first 5 years of their life. Despite theimplementation of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), now known as Mother-Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative, exclusivebreastfeeding and complementary feeding practices remain barriers to optimal breastfeeding practices in South Africa.Objectives. To explore the impact of the BFHI on breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices of mothers for second or subsequent pregnancies.Methods. The study design was a cross-sectional survey and included 169 mother-baby pairs conveniently selected from clinics inLimpopo Province. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire and analysed for 157 complete data sets using the StatisticalPackage for Social Sciences version 26.0. Both univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine the impact of baby-friendly hospitals on breastfeeding practices of mothers.Results. Few mothers in both groups practised exclusive breastfeeding for the recommended time (BFHI 22.2%; non- BFHI 30.6%). Themain reasons for introducing early complementary foods were that the child was hungry, crying or was not satisfied with breastmilk.Mothers in the BFHI group were three times (odds ratio (OR) 3.53; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13 - 10.98) more likely to breastfeedtheir infants, and two times (OR 2.22; 95% CI 1.08 - 4.58) more likely to initiate their infants on water with added glucose or salt beforethe age of 6 months than mothers in the non-BFHI group.Conclusion. Mothers from the non-baby-friendly group had better breastfeeding practices. Evidence showed that for second or subsequent pregnancies, exposure to a baby-friendly facility during first pregnancy did not sustain appropriate breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices. Whether mothers were exposed or not, practices were similar. Strengthening and continual evaluation of breastfeeding interventions might improve impact on child survival outcomes in the study area.
Top management team career experience heterogeneity, digital transformation, and the corporate green innovation: a moderated mediation analysis

Introduction Drawing upon upper echelon theory and the resource-based view, this study employs a moderated mediation model to investigate the moderating role and underlying mechanisms of digital transformation in the influence of top management teams (TMT) on corporate green innovation. Methods Our analysis of panel data from 19,155 Chinese A-share listed companies (2011–2020) demonstrates that TMT career experience heterogeneity has a positive effect on green innovation, a relationship that is further strengthened by digital transformation. Results This study shows the role of digital transformation in amplifying the effects of TMT diversity on green innovation and the crucial role of industry-academia-research collaboration as a mediator. Heterogeneity analysis highlights that non-state-owned enterprises (non-SOEs) show more agility than state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in leveraging heterogeneous TMT to drive green innovation. Conversely, green innovation in SOEs benefits more from digital transformation, which includes both its direct and indirect effects of digital transformation. Enterprises located in non-Yangtze River Economic Belt regions benefit more from digital transformation, demonstrating the importance of a balanced distribution of digital resources. Discussion This study provides novel insights into leveraging inclusive leadership and digital capabilities to enhance ecological sustainability. This study underscores the potential of diversified TMTs and digitalization technology integration to catalyze green innovation, which is critical for environmentally responsible transformation.
Performances of cattle and goats in some selected areas of Gaibandha district in Bangladesh

The survey was conducted to represent the livestock production scenario and to know the performances of cattle and goats in few selected rural areas of Gaibandha district. The data on productive and reproductive performances of cattle and goats were collected from 102 household within four selected village under Gobindaganj Upazila of Gaibandha district with a pretested survey questionnaire. The collected data were compiled, tabulated and analyzed by student t test. In the study area, about 59% were indigenous cattle and 41% were crossbred cattle. A total of 113 goats were found in the study area of which 82% belongs to Black Bengal goat and the remaining 18% belongs Jamunapari goat. All the livestock (100%) were managed intensively during the spring and rainy seasons. Similarly, almost all livestock (100%) are confined in shed at night, and 45.9% and 54.09% of the livestock population are confined in shed and paddock at day time, respectively. Artificial insemination (AI) is the preferred breeding method for cattle, whereas goats primarily rely on natural mating. Milk yield and lactation period of cow, and mature body weight of both male and female were significantly (P<0.05) higher in crossbred than indigenous cattle. Similarly, age at first kidding, lactation period and kidding interval of does, and mature body weight of buck and does were significantly higher in Jamunapari goats than Black Bengal goats. However, the conception rate and number of kids per kidding were higher in Black Bengal goats than Jamunapari goats. In conclusion, from our results, crossbred cattle and Jamunapari goats are performing better in rural conditions, whereas Black Bengal goats are efficient in producing more offspring at a given time. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 52 (3): 78-84.