Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Analytical Calculation, Numerical Structural Analysis and Design Optimization of the Diaphragm Spring of a Mechanical Clutch

This paper considers the diaphragm spring of a mechanical clutch being composed by a conical disk spring and trapezoidal lamellar springs attached to the disk spring. After analytical calculation of the disk spring a numerical structural analysis was performed in order to validate the 3D model of the disk spring. A design optimization with 4 design variables was done for the disk spring and, based on the optimized design, the 3D model of the diaphragm spring was built. A 6 design variables model of the diaphragm spring was proposed for design optimization analysis having as design objective the minimization of the maximum equivalent stress during disengaging the clutch.
Efficacy of Papain-Arginine Gel on Gingivitis Treatment Caused by Orthodontic Appliances

Orthodontic appliances can be linked to a lack of proper oral hygiene which is commonly associated with gingivitis incidence. Gingivitis treatment is required to prevent further periodontal diseases such as periodontitis, pocket formation, tooth luxation, and tooth loss. Papain is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant effects, while arginine is known for its capability to inhibit biofilm formation and interfering plaque stability. This study aimed to demonstrate the effect of papain-arginine gel on gingivitis caused by orthodontic appliances. The gel was prepared from CMC-Na as the polymer. The papain and arginine powder was successfully dissolved homogenously into the CMC-Na in aquadest 50 mL at 25°C. Papain-arginine gel showed good stability in room temperature with pH 7. Therefore, the gel is suitable for oral application. Twenty-seven adult Sprague dawleyrats weighing ± 250–300 g were included in this study. A closing loop was placed in the margin gingiva of animal’s upper incisor to generate orthodontic force and develop reproducible gingivitis. After 7 days of orthodontic tooth movement, animals were randomly divided into three groups; the papain-arginine gel group, the chlorhexidine gel group, and the untreated group. Three rats in every group were conducted clinical observation on its gingival index (GI) and periodontal pocket depths (PPD) before and at 1, 3 and 7 days after treatment. The number of newly-formed capillaries, neutrophils and macrophages proliferation were evaluated using haematoxylin-eosin staining. The clinical response such as increasing GI and decreasing PPD on the treatment did not appear significant difference (P> .05); while the histopathological analysis showed neutrophil and macrophage proliferation were significantly higher andreached its peak on day 3 after papain-arginine and chlorhexidine gel application(P < .05). A considerably larger number of newly-formed capillary formed, and the smaller number of neutrophils and macrophages were noticed significantly at 7 days after papain-arginine and chlorhexidine gel treatment (P> .05). In early gingivitis lesion, gingiva may appear clinically healthy. However, previous studies suggested that inflammatory cells decrease indicates the process of gingivitis healing. Treatment with papain-arginine gel compared to the untreated group significantly diminished the process of inflammation. Hence, it can be concluded that papain-arginine gel was efficient in treating gingivitis caused by orthodontic appliances.
The Influence of Alteration of kVp and mAs towards the Image Quality of Acrylic Using CBCT

CBCT is a modernized technology in producing radiograph image on dentistry. The image quality excellence is very important for clinicians to interpret the image, so the result of diagnosis produced becoming more accurate, appropriate, thus minimizing the working time. This research was aimed to assess the image quality using the blank acrylic phantom polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) (C5H8O2)n in the density of 1.185 g/cm3 for evaluating the homogeneity and uniformity of the image produced. Acrylic phantom was supported with a tripod and laid down on the chin rest of the CBCT device, then the phantom was fixed, and the edge of the phantom was touched by the bite block. Furthermore, the exposure of the X-ray was executed toward the acrylic phantom with various kVp and mAs, from 80 until 90, with the range of 5 kV and the variation of mA was 3, 5, and 7 mA respectively. The time exposure was kept constant for 25 seconds. The samples were taken from CBCT acrylic images, then as much as 5 ROIs (Region of Interest) was chosen to be analyzed. The ROIs determination was analyzed by using the ImageJ® software for recognizing the influence of kVp and mAs towards the image uniformity, noise and SNR. The lowest kVp and mAs had the result of uniformity value, homogeneity and signal to noise ratio of 11.22; 40.35; and 5.96 respectively. Meanwhile, the highest kVp and mAs had uniformity value, homogeneity and signal to noise ratio of 16.96; 26.20; and 5.95 respectively. There were significant differences between the image uniformity and homogeneity on the lowest kVp and mAs compared to the highest kVp and mAs, as analyzed with the ANOVA statistics analysis continued with the t-student post-hoc test with α = 0.05. However, there was no significant difference in SNR as analyzed with the ANOVA statistic analysis. The usage of the higher kVp and mAs caused the improvement of the image homogeneity and uniformity compared to the lower kVp and mAs.
A Comparative Study of Impact Localisation in Composite Structures Using Neural Networks under Environmental and Operational Variations

In this study we compare the effectiveness of the Normalised Smoothed Envelope (NSET) method for Artificial Neural Network (ANN) based impact localisation under simulated environmental and operational conditions with respect to other ANN based localisation methods developed by other studies. It is shown that when the testing and training impact case is the same, most studies give comparably good accuracy of localisation irrespective of feature extraction method or structure geometry. However, when the testing and training impact cases are not the same, only the NSET method is able to negate the variations caused by various impact cases and provide good localisation accuracy for an ANN trained using only a single impact case thus allowing for smaller training data set size requirements and increasing feasibility for real life application.
How do income and the debt position of households propagate public into private spending

We study the household sector’s post-tax income and debt position as propagation mechanisms of public into private spending, in postwar U.S. data. In structural VARs, we obtain the consumption “crowding-in puzzle” for surges in public spending and show this consumption response to be accompanied by a persistent increase in disposable income. Endogenously reacting income, however, is insufficient to rationalize conditional comovement of private and public spending: once we hypothetically force (dis)aggregate measures of income to their pre-shock paths, consumption still rises. Corroborating these findings within an external-instruments-identified VAR, which constitutes an adequate laboratory for the simultaneous interplay of financial and macroeconomic time-series, we provide causal evidence of fiscal stimulus prompting households to take on more credit. This favorable debt cycle is paralleled by dropping interest rates, narrowing credit spreads, and inflating collateral prices, e.g., real estate prices, suggesting that softening borrowing constraints support the accumulation of debt and help rationalizing the absence of crowding-out.
The Pattern, Risk Factors And Predictors of Oral Manifestations of HIV Among Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy Naive Patients

It has been estimated that 90% of people with HIV disease will present with at least one oral manifestation sometimes during the course of their infection. Oral manifestations were among the early documented signs of HIV infection and over 40 manifestations have been described. Oral manifestations can serve as clinical correlates of CD4 count and viral load. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence, pattern, risk factors and likely predictors of oral manifestations among HIV patients. A total of 207 adult HIV seropositive subjects who were HAART naïve and gave informed consent were recruited for the study. A researcher administered questionnaire was used documenting patient’s sociodemographic characteristics and past medical history, which included the oral cavity. Oral examination was carried out and the clinical diagnosis of oral findings were based on the European Community and WHO collaborating centre on oral manifestations of HIV. Data was analyzed using SPPS version 22.The mean age for males was significantly higher than that for females. More females were in the lower age category, were singles, widows and traders. The prevalence rate of oral lesions was 32.4% with oral thrush being the commonest lesion observed. More females had oral lesions compared to the males. More males indulged in alcohol, smoking and use of cannabis. Lower CD4 count of <200 cells/μl was associated with pain on swallowing and oral lesions. Higher CD4 count > 200 cells/μl was associated with swollen gums. Lower CD4 count was closely a predictor of oral lesions among the studied population.The prevalence of oral lesions was 32.4% with oral thrush being the commonest lesions observed. Lower CD4 count below 200 cells/ul was associated with oral lesions and was closely a predictor of oral manifestations among the HIV patients.
The Fate of Th17 Cells is Shaped by Epigenetic Modifications and Remodeled by the Tumor Microenvironment

Th17 cells represent a subset of CD4+ T cells characterized by the master transcription factor RORγt and the production of IL-17. Epigenetic modifications such as post-translational histone modifications and DNA methylation play a key role in Th17 cell differentiation and high plasticity. Th17 cells are highly recruited in many types of cancer and can be associated with good or bad prognosis. Here, we will review the remodeling of the epigenome induced by the tumor microenvironment, which may explain Th17 cell predominance. We will also discuss the promising treatment perspectives of molecules targeting epigenetic enzymes to remodel a Th17-enriched tumor microenvironment.
The Role of Body Image, Disordered Eating and Lifestyle on the Quality of Life in Lithuanian University Students

Purpose. The present study aimed to explore the associations between body image concerns (BI), disordered eating (DE), health-related lifestyle, and the different domains of the quality of life (QoL) in a Lithuanian sample of student-aged men and women. Methods. A mixed-gender sample of students (N = 1850, 58.8% were women, average age 21.6 ± 5.0 years) completed a series of questionnaires, including health-related lifestyles, BI, DE, and QoL. A series of simultaneous multiple linear regression analyses were conducted. Mediation analyses were performed to estimate the size of the total, direct, and indirect effects of variables in the models. Results. The analysis of the linear regressions demonstrated that the positive trait of body areas satisfaction was associated with the significantly enhanced QoL in all domains in both genders (for men β = 0.29–0.34; for women β = 0.26–0.33; p < 0.001). DE was associated with a poorer psychological QoL domain in women only (β = −0.07; p = 0.047). The drive for muscularity was associated with a lower QoL in men (β = −0.06–(−0.141); p < 0.05). Body areas satisfaction mediated the associations between body mass index and psychological and physical QoL in both genders (TLI (Tucker Lewis Index) = 0.975; CFI (comparative fit index) = 0.997; RMSEA (Root of the Mean Square Error) = 0.053). Conclusions. Positive traits of BI play essential roles in the QoL of student-aged women and men. The present study adds empirical evidence emphasizing the importance of integrating education about positive body image while implementing healthy lifestyle and QoL promotion programs in student-aged men and women.
Bond Strength of Universal Self-Etch 1-Step Adhesive Systems for Orthodontic Brackets.

OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to assess the shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic brackets bonded to uncut enamel with universal self-etch 1-step adhesive systems. METHODS Extracted uncut premolars (n = 160) were randomly divided into 4 groups for treatment with Scotchbond Universal Adhesive (SU), All-Bond Universal (BU), Clearfil Universal Bond (CU) or the control, Adper Scotchbond Multi-Purpose Adhesive. Following bonding of brackets on tooth surfaces, teeth were stored in distilled water for 24 h and 6 months, and brackets were tested for SBS. The adhesive remnant index (ARI) and quantitative percentage of remaining resin (%RR) were recorded. Scanning electron microscopy was used to analyze debonded surfaces qualitatively. SBS and %RR data were analyzed by 2-way ANOVA followed by the Tukey test (α = 0.05). RESULTS At neither time did these universal adhesives achieve satisfactory SBS for orthodontic treatment. The control group had the highest SBS, ARI score and mean %RR (and these differences were significant), while the BU group had the lowest SBS. SBS mean values and ARI scores decreased over time for SU and BU, but remained stable for CU. There was no difference in %RR among the universal adhesives tested. CONCLUSION None of the universal adhesives used in self-etch mode achieved SBS values (at 24 h and 6 months) that were satisfactory for orthodontic treatment.
Diversity of Intestinal Bacterial Microbiota of Indigenous and Commercial Strains of Chickens Using 16S rDNA-Based Analysis

Simple Summary Little is known about how the bacterial community differs among different genetic breeds of chickens, especially those with various growth rates, such as in local native chickens. Our data, generated by molecular detection revealed the heterogeneity of bacterial populations existing in different intestinal segments for the two strain of chickens. Abstract The objective of this study was to assess the relative abundance of bacteria microflora in different segments of the gastrointestinal tract (duodenum, jejunum, ilium, and cecum) of indigenous (local Omani) and commercial (Cobb 500) chicken strains. Birds were raised under an intensive management system fed a nonmedicated corn-soybean meal diet from Day 0–35 days of age. Using 16S rDNA-based analysis the study showed that in both breeds of birds Bacilli were the most abundant class of bacteria in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Local Omani chickens had significantly higher numbers of Clostridia at most time periods. Actinobacteria were found in higher numbers and reached 54.9% of the bacteria in the jejunum at Day 35 in Cobb 500 versus only 5.42% in the Omani chickens. The bacterial microbiota relative abundance differed significantly (p < 0.05) across different intestinal segments of the two strains, suggesting that each region developed its own bacterial community and the relative abundances of these were quite different.
Micro RNA Expression after Ingestion of Fucoidan; A Clinical Study

Fucoidans are a class of fucose-rich sulfated polysaccharides derived from brown macroalgae that exert a range of biological activities in vitro and in vivo. To generate an unbiased assessment of pathways and processes affected by fucoidan, a placebo-controlled double-blind pilot study was performed in healthy volunteers. Blood samples were taken immediately before and 24 h after ingestion of a single dose of 1 g of Undaria pinnatifida fucoidan (UPF) or placebo. Levels of isolated miRNAs were analyzed using Taqman Open Array Human MicroRNA panels. Out of 754 miRNAs screened, UPF affected a total of 53 miRNAs. Pathway analysis using the TALOS data analysis tool predicted 29 different pathways and processes that were largely grouped into cell surface receptor signaling, cancer-related pathways, the majority of which were previously associated with fucoidans. However, this analysis also identified nine pathways and processes that have not been associated with fucoidans before. Overall, this study illustrates that even a single dose of fucoidans has the potential to affect the expression of genes related to fundamental cellular processes. Moreover, it confirms previous data that fucoidans influence immunity, cancer cells, inflammation, and neurological function.
Do thrombolysis outcomes differ between anterior circulation stroke and posterior circulation stroke? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background It remains unclear whether thrombolysis outcomes can be influenced by the affected vascular territory (i.e. anterior circulation stroke vs. posterior circulation stroke) in stroke patients owing to the lack of randomized controlled trials. Aims Using multiple comprehensive databases, we searched for observational studies of the safety and efficacy of intravenous thrombolytics and intra-arterial treatment with or without intravenous thrombolytics in accordance with the affected vascular territory. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis. We evaluated symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, all-type intracerebral hemorrhage, mortality, and functional outcomes at three months. The recanalization rate was assessed in the intra-arterial treatment group. Summary of review Twenty-one studies including a report from our own stroke registry were included through quantitative synthesis. Compared with the anterior circulation stroke group, the posterior circulation stroke group had a lower risk of ICH, including symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage and all-type intracerebral hemorrhage, after intravenous thrombolytics and tended to have favorable functional outcomes at three months. Mortality was similar between the two groups. Regarding intra-arterial treatment, the symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage and post-procedural recanalization rates were comparable between the two groups, although the posterior circulation stroke group had a higher mortality risk and lower tendency for a favorable functional outcome. Conclusions Safety and efficacy of thrombolysis in posterior circulation stroke depends on involvement of large vessel occlusion and reperfusion modality such that intravenous thrombolytics is more effective and safer than in anterior circulation stroke; the safety and efficacy of intra-arterial treatment is comparable or lower than anterior circulation stroke. Considering the limitations of our meta-analysis, further studies are needed to provide high level evidence of a beneficial effect of intra-arterial treatment, and to identify patients’ profiles associated with benefit of treatment.
Ocular Manifestations in Patients with Philadelphia-Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasms

The major complications of Philadelphia-negative (Ph-Negative) myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are thrombosis, haemorrhage and leukemic transformation. As systemic and haematological diseases, MPNs have the potential to affect many tissues and organs. Some complications lead to the diagnosis of MPNs, but other signs and symptoms are often misdiagnosed or neglected as a sign of MPN disease. Therefore, we reviewed the current literature to investigate and delineate the clinical manifestations seen in the eyes of Ph-negative MPN patients. We found that ocular manifestations are common among patients with MPNs. The most frequently described manifestations are due to the consequences of haematological abnormalities causing microvascular disturbances and hyperviscosity. More serious and vision-threatening complications as thrombotic events in the eyes have been repeatedly reported as well. These ocular symptoms may precede more serious extraocular complications. Accordingly, combined ophthalmological and haematological management have the potential to discover these diseases earlier and prevent morbidity and mortality in these patients. Furthermore, routine ophthalmological screening of all newly diagnosed MPN patients may be a preventive approach for early diagnosis and timely treatment of the ocular manifestations.
Electrochemical Performance of Photovoltaic Cells Using HDA Capped-SnS Nanocrystal from bis (N-1,4-Phenyl-N-Morpho-Dithiocarbamato) Sn(II) Complexes

Great consideration is placed on the choice of capping agents’ base on the proposed application, in order to cater to the particular surface, size, geometry, and functional group. Change in any of the above can influence the characteristics properties of the nanomaterials. The adoption of hexadecylamine (HDA) as a capping agent in single source precursor approach offers better quantum dots (QDs) sensitizer materials with good quantum efficiency photoluminescence and desirable particles size. Structural, morphological, and electrochemical instruments were used to evaluate the characterization and efficiency of the sensitizers. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) results display both reduction and oxidation peaks for both materials. XRD for SnS/HDA and SnS photosensitizers displays eleven peaks within the values of 27.02° to 66.05° for SnS/HDA and 26.03° to 66.04° for SnS in correlation to the orthorhombic structure. Current density–voltage (I–V) results for SnS/HDA exhibited a better performance compared to SnS sensitizers. Bode plot results indicate electrons lifetime (τ) for SnS/HDA photosensitizer have superiority to the SnS photosensitizer. The results connote that SnS/HDA exhibited a better performance compared to SnS sensitizers due to the presence of HDA capping agent.
Photobiomodulation Therapy Associated with Heterologous Fibrin Biopolymer and Bovine Bone Matrix Helps to Reconstruct Long Bones

Bone defects cause aesthetic and functional changes that affect the social, economic and especially the emotional life of human beings. This complication stimulates the scientific community to investigate strategies aimed at improving bone reconstruction processes using complementary therapies. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) and the use of new biomaterials, including heterologous fibrin biopolymer (HFB), are included in this challenge. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the influence of photobiomodulation therapy on bone tibial reconstruction of rats with biomaterial consisting of lyophilized bovine bone matrix (BM) associated or not with heterologous fibrin biopolymer. Thirty male rats were randomly separated into three groups of 10 animals. In all animals, after the anesthetic procedure, a noncritical tibial defect of 2 mm was performed. The groups received the following treatments: Group 1: BM + PBMT, Group 2: BM + HFB and Group 3: BM + HFB + PBMT. The animals from Groups 1 and 3 were submitted to PBMT in the immediate postoperative period and every 48 h until the day of euthanasia that occurred at 14 and 42 days. Analyses by computed microtomography (µCT) and histomorphometry showed statistical difference in the percentage of bone formation between Groups 3 (BM + HB + PBMT) and 2 (BM + HFB) (26.4% ± 1.03% and 20.0% ± 1.87%, respectively) at 14 days and at 42 days (38.2% ± 1.59% and 31.6% ± 1.33%, respectively), and at 42 days there was presence of bone with mature characteristics and organized connective tissue. The µCT demonstrated BM particles filling the defect and the deposition of new bone in the superficial region, especially in the ruptured cortical. It was concluded that the association of PBMT with HFB and BM has the potential to assist in the process of reconstructing bone defects in the tibia of rats.