Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Two Root Canal Filling Techniques: Obturation with Guttacore Carrier Based System and Obturation with Guttaflow2 Fluid Gutta-Percha

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to compare the quality of the root canal obturation obtained with two different techniques, i.e., thermoplastic gutta-percha introduced through a carrier (GuttaCore) and fluid gutta-percha (GuttaFlow2). Materials and Methods: The study included 40 permanent single-rooted human teeth, divided into two groups and obturated with Guttaflow (group G) and with GuttaCore (group T). The teeth were fixed and transversely sectioned, they were examined by scanning electron microscopy. The dentin–cement–gutta–percha interface and the percentage of voids produced by the two techniques were statistically analyzed. Results: GuttaCore showed a better filling in the apical third of the canal with a percentage of voids equal to 5%. GuttaFlow showed a lower percentage of voids in the middle and coronal thirds of the canal, 1.6% of coronal voids. Statistical analysis showed a statistically significant difference in the percentage of voids in the two groups (GuttaCore and Guttaflow2) in each portion. Conclusions: GuttaFlow2 seems to flow optimally in the middle and coronal third of the canal, with greater difficulty in filling the apical third. Due to the rigidity of the carrier, GuttaCore is able to reach better the most apical portions of the canals, with greater difficulty in creating the three-dimensional seal at the level of the middle third and coronal third.
Deciphering the RNA universe in sperm in its role as a vertical information carrier

Abstract The inheritance of neurophysiologic and neuropsychologic complex diseases can only partly be explained by the Mendelian concept of genetic inheritance. Previous research showed that both psychological disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder and metabolic diseases are more prevalent in the progeny of affected parents. This could suggest an epigenetic mode of transmission. Human studies give first insight into the scope of intergenerational influence of stressors but are limited in exploring the underlying mechanisms. Animal models have elucidated the mechanistic underpinnings of epigenetic transmission. In this review, we summarize progress on the mechanisms of paternal intergenerational transmission by means of sperm RNA in mouse models. We discuss relevant details for the modelling of RNA-mediated transmission, point towards currently unanswered questions and propose experimental considerations for tackling these questions.
Cystatin C-Based Equations Detect Hidden Kidney Disease and Poor Prognosis in Newly Diagnosed Patients with Multiple Myeloma

Objectives The aim of this study was to compare the creatinine equations with cystatin C (CysC) equations to define renal impairment (RI) in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) patients and to analyse the equation that allows for identifying patients with more and worse prognostic factors. Methods Renal function was evaluated prospectively in 61 patients with newly diagnosed untreated MM employing CKD-EPI and CAPA equations. The comparison was conducted using Bland–Altman graphics and Cohen's Kappa statistic. Mann–Whitney T and Chi-square tests were used, and univariate and multivariate analyses were carried out. Results According to the IMWG criteria, 26% of patients showed RI (3 women/13 men) whilst the use of CysC equations allowed us to identify up to 39% of patients (7 women/17 men). The CAPA equation was less biased and dispersed and more sensitive than CKD-EPI-creatinine. Furthermore, univariate analysis unveiled an association between decreased CKD-EPI-CysC and poor prognosis based on R-ISS-3. Conclusions The IMWG criteria may underestimate kidney disease, mostly in women, which could affect the dose received as well as its toxicity. Altogether, our data suggest that equations that include CysC are more accurate to detect hidden kidney disease, as well as patients with more and worse prognostic factors, in newly diagnosed MM.
Combination of LIGHT (TNFSF14)-Armed Myxoma Virus Pre-Loaded into ADSCs and Gemcitabine in the Treatment of Experimental Orthotopic Murine Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

Simple Summary Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a weakly immunogenic fatal neoplasm. Oncolytic viruses have dual anti-cancer properties including tumor-lysing and immune response-boosting effects and offer attractive alternative for PDAC management. Adipose-derived stem cells (AD-SCs) of mesenchymal origin were infected ex vivo with recombinant oncolytic myxoma virus (MYXV), which encodes murine LIGHT, also called tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 14 (TNFSF14). ADSC-shielded virus were administered into murine pancreatic cancer lesions that had been induced orthotopically in immunocompetent mice. Ensuing oncolysis and the activation of anti-tumor immune responses provided significant survival benefit. Although adjunct therapy with gemcitabine improved the cytolytic killing of pancreatic cancer cells in vitro, it induced no additional survival advantage in this model in vivo. Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a deadly neoplasm. Oncolytic viruses have tumorolytic and immune response-boosting effects and present great potential for PDAC management. We used LIGHT-armed myxoma virus (vMyx-LIGHT) loaded ex vivo into human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) to evaluate murine PDAC treatment in conjunction with gemcitabine (GEM). The cytotoxicity of this treatment was confirmed in vitro using human and murine pancreatic cancer cell cultures, which were more sensitive to the combined approach and largely destroyed. Unlike cancer cells, ADSCs sustain significant viability after infection. The in vivo administration of vMyx-LIGHT-loaded ADSCs and gemcitabine was evaluated using immunocompetent mice with induced orthotopic PDAC lesions. The expression of virus-encoded LIGHT increased the influx of T cells to the tumor site. Shielded virus followed by gemcitabine improved tumor regression and survival. The addition of gemcitabine slightly compromised the adaptive immune response boost obtained with the shielded virus alone, conferring no survival benefit. ADSCs pre-loaded with vMyx-LIGHT allowed the effective transport of the oncolytic construct to PDAC lesions and yielded significant immune response; additional GEM administration failed to improve survival. In view of our results, the delivery of targeted/shielded virus in combination with TGF-β ablation and/or checkpoint inhibitors is a promising option to improve the therapeutic effects of vMyx-LIGHT/ADSCs against PDAC in vivo.
Consumption of Lutein and Zeaxanthin and Its Relation to the Level of Macular Pigment Optical Density in Thai Subjects

The aim of the study is to determine dietary lutein and zeaxanthin (L/Z) consumption and to evaluate its association with macular pigment optical density (MPOD) in Thai subjects. Methods. This study was a cross-sectional study. A total of 120 ophthalmologically healthy subjects aged between 40 and 72 years were recruited from Bangkok and the vicinity area. Demographic data were collected using a questionnaire, while a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire assessed the L/Z intake. MPOD was determined using the reflectometry method (VISUCAM 500®, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG). Pearson's correlation coefficient analyzed the relationship between L/Z consumption and MPOD. Results. The mean age of the participants was 50.7 ± 7.5 years. The mean consumption of L/Z was 3.03 ± 2.65 mg per day. The mean MPOD was 0.102 ± 0.023 density units. Consumption of foods rich in L/Z, including ivy gourd (r = 0.217, p < 0.05), Chinese flowering cabbage (r = 0.194, p < 0.05), balsam pear (r = 0.193, p < 0.05), lettuce (r = 0.182, p < 0.05), sweet corn (r = 0.181, p < 0.05), and pumpkin (r = 0.181, p < 0.05), was positively associated with the mean optical density (mean MPOD). Consumption of green onion (r = 0.212, p < 0.05) was positively associated with the sum of optical densities (MPOD volume). In contrast, chilli pepper consumption showed a negative association with mean MPOD (r = −0.220, p < 0.05) and amaranth showed a negative association with MPOD volume (r = −0.283, p < 0.05). No association was found between total L/Z consumption and MPOD. Conclusion. L/Z consumption is low among Thais living in Bangkok and the vicinity area, which may not be sufficient to ensure eye health, and total L/Z consumption is not associated with MPOD.
Azacitidine Plus Venetoclax for the Treatment of Relapsed and Newly Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patients

Simple Summary The combination of venetoclax and azacititine (VEN–AZA) has recently been approved for the treatment of unfit newly diagnosed (ND) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. Few data are available for the relapsed and/or refractory (R/R) AML group. We retrospectively compared the outcome of 39 R/R to 38 concomitant ND AML patients treated in our institution between 01/20 and 12/21. Response rates were lower in R/R AML (37% versus 56%); adverse cytogenetics was associated with treatment failure only in the R/R group (Relative Risk = 0.10, p = 0.005). ASXL1, IDH and SFSR2 mutations were associated with a trend in a higher response rate in the R/R group. Median leukemia-free survival was not different between the two groups (9.4 months and 10.3 months in the ND and R/R groups, respectively). In conclusion, VEN–AZA can be efficient as a salvage treatment for selected R/R AML patients. Abstract Venetoclax (VEN) belongs the BH3-mimetic class that selectively targets BCL-2, activating apoptosis. The combination of VEN and azacitidine (AZA) has changed the paradigm of treatment of newly diagnosed (ND) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients ineligible for intensive chemotherapy. There is scarce evidence for the use of VEN–AZA for relapsed or refractory (R/R) AML. We compared the outcome of 39 R/R AML and 38 ND AML patients treated between 01/20 and 12/21. The median age was 69 (22–86) and 73 (61–81) in the R/R and ND groups, respectively. Adverse cytogenetics were found in 36% of patients in the R/R group and 59% of patients in the ND group. Overall response rate was 37% in R/R AML, including 13% CR, 8% CRi, 3% PR and 13% MLFS, and 58% in the ND AML, including 32% CR, 13% CRi and 13% MLFS. Adverse cytogenetics was associated with treatment failure in the R/R group (Relative Risk = 0.13, p = 0.005). Median overall survival (OS) was 5.9 months in the R/R group and 9.4 months in the ND group. Median OS was 2.2 months in the adverse cytogenetics group versus 8.7 months in the intermediate cytogenetics group in the R/R group (p = 0.02). Median leukemia-free survival was not different between the two groups (9.4 months and 10.3 months), indicating that VEN–AZA can be an efficient salvage treatment for selected R/R AML patients. In conclusion, VEN–AZA is a promising treatment for ND AML and for selected R/R AML patients.
The Effect of Hypothermia and Osmotic Shock on the Electrocardiogram of Adult Zebrafish

Simple Summary Assessing cardiac toxicity of new drugs is a requirement for their approval. One of the parameters which is carefully looked at is the QT interval, which is determined using an electrocardiogram (ECG). Before undertaking clinical trials using human patients, it is important to first perform pre-clinical tests using animal models. Zebrafish are widely used to study cardiac physiology and several reports suggest that although ECG measurement can be performed, the recording configuration appears to affect the results. Our research aimed to provide a comprehensive characterization of adult zebrafish ECG to determine the best practice for using this model during cardiac toxicity trials. We tested three recording configurations and determined that exposing the heart provided the most reliable and reproducible ECG recordings. We also determined the most accurate correction to apply to calculate the corrected QT, which makes the QT interval independent of the heart rate, a critical parameter when assessing drug cardiac toxicity. Overall, our study highlights the best conditions to record zebrafish ECG and demonstrates their utility for cardiac toxicity testing. Abstract The use of zebrafish to explore cardiac physiology has been widely adopted within the scientific community. Whether this animal model can be used to determine drug cardiac toxicity via electrocardiogram (ECG) analysis is still an ongoing question. Several reports indicate that the recording configuration severely affects the ECG waveforms and its derived-parameters, emphasizing the need for improved characterization. To address this problem, we recorded ECGs from adult zebrafish hearts in three different configurations (unexposed heart, exposed heart, and extracted heart) to identify the most reliable method to explore ECG recordings at baseline and in response to commonly used clinical therapies. We found that the exposed heart configuration provided the most reliable and reproducible ECG recordings of waveforms and intervals. We were unable to determine T wave morphology in unexposed hearts. In extracted hearts, ECG intervals were lengthened and P waves were unstable. However, in the exposed heart configuration, we were able to reliably record ECGs and subsequently establish the QT-RR relationship (Holzgrefe correction) in response to changes in heart rate.
Genius Loci of Ancient Village from the Perspective of Tourists Experience: Scale Development and Validation

As the spiritual homeland marker of modern urbanites, ancient villages have grown into popular tourist attractions. However, the existing literature lacks a conceptually valid and psychometrically sound scale to measure the existential value of ancient villages that meet the material and spiritual needs of tourists. Guided by the concept of genius loci in architectural phenomenology, this study developed and validated a scale to measure the genius loci of ancient villages from the perspective of tourists experience in the Chinese context. Following multistage scale development and validation procedures, tourists in two World Cultural Heritage ancient villages were sampled in two stages (Study 1, n = 214; Study 2, n = 228) to establish the psychometric properties of a genius loci scale. A three-dimensional (earthbound atmosphere, architectural culture, and spiritual homeland) genius loci measurement with 10 items was identified, and the scale showed good reliability and validity. This study extends the current ancient village tourism literature and provides a measurement tool for further investigation by academics and tourism professionals.
Effects of Changes in Multiple Chronic Conditions on Medical Costs among Older Adults in South Korea

This study aims to analyze the relationship between cognitive function and out-of-pocket cost of the state change of multiple chronic conditions in individuals aged 60 or older. Data from the 2014 to 2018 Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging were used for 2202 older adults who were cognitively “normal” at the start of the survey. Four status change groups were established (“Good → Good,” “Good → Bad,” “Bad → Good,” and “Bad → Bad”) according to the change in the number of chronic diseases. Generalized estimating equation modeling analyzed the association between these changes and out-of-pocket medical cost. Out-of-pocket cost was significantly higher among older adults with multiple chronic conditions (p < 0.0001). Total out-of-pocket medical cost and out-of-pocket cost for outpatient care and prescription drugs were significantly higher for Bad→ Bad or Good → Bad changes. Older adults with cognitive decline had significantly higher total out-of-pocket medical cost and out-of-pocket cost for prescription drugs. This study demonstrates the need to improve the multiple chronic conditions management construction model to enhance the health of older adults in Korea and secure national health care finances long-term. It provides a foundation for related medical and medical expenses-related systems.
Effects of Interactive Music Tempo with Heart Rate Feedback on Physio-Psychological Responses of Basketball Players

This paper introduces an interactive music tempo control with closed-loop heart rate feedback to yield a sportsperson with better physio-psychological states. A total of 23 participants (13 men, 10 women; 16–32 years, mean = 20.04 years) who are professionals or school team members further guide a sportsperson to amend their physical tempo to harmonize their psychological and physical states. The self-tuning mechanism between the surroundings and the human can be amplified using interactive music tempo control. The experiments showed that listening to interactive music had a significant effect on the heart rate and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) of the basketball player compared to those listening to asynchronous music or no music during exercise (p < 0.01). Synchronized interactive music allows athletes to increase their heart rate and decrease RPE during exercise and does not require a multitude of preplanned playlists. All self-selected songs can be converted into sports-oriented music using algorithms. The algorithms of synchronous and asynchronous modes in this study can be adjusted and applied to other sports fields or recovery after exercise. In the future, other musical parameters should be adjusted in real-time based on physiological signals, such as tonality, beats, chords, and orchestration.
Possible relationship between heatwaves in Korea and the summer blocking frequency in the Sea of Okhotsk

This study examined the relationship between heatwaves in Korea and blocking in the Sea of Okhotsk (OK) region, which significantly influences the Korean climate in summer. According to the analysis, negative correlations were observed between the blocking frequency in the OK region and heatwave days (HWD) and the surface air temperature (SAT) in Korea over the past four decades (1979–2018). These negative correlations suggest that when the blocking frequency in the OK region increases in summer, the HWD and SAT decrease in Korea. This study selected 10 years of high blocking frequency years (high BF years) and 10 years of low blocking frequency years (low BF years) and analysed the differences between the two groups to explain the negative relationship between the HWD in Korea and the blocking frequency in the OK region. The difference between the two groups revealed strong anomalous anticyclonic and cyclonic circulations that developed in the north Siberia region and northeast Australia (NEA), respectively, throughout all layers in the troposphere. The large anomalous anticyclonic pattern in the North Siberia region was related to the blocking high, while the anomalous cyclonic pattern that developed in NEA was related to the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) front. The difference in the sea surface temperature (SST) between the two groups was also analysed. In the North Atlantic Ocean, a tripole structure appeared with a cold anomaly in the high latitudes, a warm anomaly in the mid‐latitudes and a cold anomaly again in the low latitudes, which is a typical spatial distribution of the SST anomaly related to the positive North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) phase.
Social Work Students' Awareness And Knowledge of Domestic Violence

Malaysians are frequently exposed to information about the problem of domestic violence, which affects children, women, the elderly, and maids. In order to address this issue, it is critical to increase the knowledge, awareness, and involvement of community members of all ages. To that end, a study was conducted to determine students' level of awareness and knowledge about important aspects of domestic violence, such as the provision of policies, rights, and available assistance channelled through various organisations to victims of violence. This quantitative study collected data by distributing a set of questionnaires. The study surveyed 132 Social Work students in their first through fourth years at one of Malaysia's public universities. The students were chosen because they are most likely to work in social service organisations after graduation. Descriptive statistics was used to determine social work students’ level of awareness and knowledge about domestic violence. The findings indicated that respondents had a moderate level of awareness regarding domestic violence. Meanwhile, their awareness of the Domestic Violence Act's provisions, rights, and available assistance services for victims of domestic violence was limited. The findings of this study demonstrate a lack of awareness and understanding among Social Work students regarding domestic violence. There were a few respondents who retained gender-stereotypical beliefs toward domestic violence victims and perpetrators. Thus, it is proposed that extended awareness and practical training programmes concerning domestic violence be provided through a comprehensive educational syllabus to assist students in increasing their level of awareness and understanding about domestic violence. This is hoped to increase students' readiness and ability to deal with domestic violence cases in their professional endeavours.
Alpha-band EEG suppression as a neural marker of sustained attentional engagement to conditioned threat stimuli

Abstract Attention helps us to be aware of the external world, and this may be especially important when a threat stimulus predicts an aversive outcome. Electroencephalogram (EEG) alpha-band suppression has long been considered as a neural signature of attentional engagement. The present study was designed to test whether attentional engagement, as indexed by alpha-band suppression, is increased in a sustained manner following a conditioned stimulus (CS) that is paired with an aversive (CS+) vs neutral (CS−) outcome. We tested 70 healthy young adults in aversive conditioning and extinction paradigms. One of three colored circles served as the CS+, which was paired in 50% of the trials with a noise burst (unconditioned stimulus, US). The other colored circles (CS−) were never paired with the US. For conditioning, we found greater alpha-band suppression for the CS+ compared to the CS−; this suppression was sustained through the time of the predicted US. This effect was significantly reduced for extinction. These results indicate that conditioned threat stimuli trigger an increase in attentional engagement as subjects monitor the environment for the predicted aversive stimulus. Moreover, this alpha-band suppression effect may be valuable for future studies examining normal or pathological increases in attentional monitoring following threat stimuli.