Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
1D Copper(II)-Aroylhydrazone Coordination Polymers: Magnetic Properties and Microwave Assisted Oxidation of a Secondary Alcohol

The 1D Cu(II) coordination polymers [Cu3(L1)(NO3)4(H2O)2]n (1) and [Cu2(H2L2)(NO3)(H2O)2]n(NO3)n (2) have been synthesized using the aroylhyrazone Schiff bases N'1,N'2-bis(pyridin-2-ylmethylene)oxalohydrazide (H2L1) and N'1,N'3-bis(2-hydroxybenzylidene)malonohydrazide (H4L2), respectively. They have been characterized by elemental analysis, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), single crystal X-ray diffraction and variable temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements (for 2). The ligand (L1)2− coordinates in the iminol form in 1, whereas the amide coordination is observed for (H2L2)2− in 2. Either the ligand bridge or the nitrate bridge in 2 mediates weak antiferromagnetic coupling. The catalytic performance of 1 and 2 has been investigated toward the solvent-free microwave-assisted oxidation of a secondary alcohol (1-phenylethanol used as model substrate). At 120°C and in the presence of the nitroxyl radical 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperydil-1-oxyl (TEMPO), the complete conversion of 1-phenylethanol into acetophenone occurs with TOFs up to 1,200 h−1.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of Viral Hepatitis Among Recent African Immigrants in the United States: A Community Based Participatory Research Qualitative Study

Background: In the United States, hepatocellular carcinoma is the ninth leading cause of cancer mortality. Hepatocellular carcinoma disproportionately affects individuals of African ancestry with the rates being higher amongst individuals of foreign-born African ancestry. This study explored knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors toward viral hepatitis transmission, screening, and vaccination among recent African immigrants in Minnesota and identify ways to improve early detection and screening methods. Methods: A community based participatory research (CBPR) team with minority researchers and community members sought to gain insight on persons of African Ancestry knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to viral hepatitis by conducting a qualitative research study. The CBPR team developed a focus group moderator's guide with semi-structured questions related to transmission, screening, and vaccination of viral hepatitis. We conducted seven focus groups using bilingual, bicultural moderators with participants from local Ethiopian, Liberian and Kenyan communities from August 10th, 2014 to October 11th, 2014. Focus groups were audio recorded and transcribed. The CBPR team categorized the data into themes and subthemes with consensus using traditional content analysis. Results: Community partners recruited 63 participants with a majority identifying as male (51%). Participants lacked knowledge of viral hepatitis screening, vaccination, and treatment. Participants were aware of some behaviors that increased risk of acquisition of hepatitis. Participants endorsed a strategy of developing and delivering educational materials for African immigrants. Moreover, access to care and cultural awareness were mentioned as pivotal for prevention and treatment of viral hepatitis. Conclusions: Findings from this pilot study provide insight on areas of research focus. Having a research team consisting of members from the community helped to increase trust and foster an understanding of shared community values. Information from this study provides evidence to support the development culturally appropriate strategies to address disparities in viral hepatitis in these communities.
Emotional Intelligence, Self-Regulation, Smartphone Addiction: Which Relationship With Student Well-Being and Quality of Life?

This study emphasizes the importance of analyzing factors that contribute to student well-being, as a result of the multiplicity of factors that can affect their quality of life (QoL). The literature indicates that, among these factors, emotional intelligence and self-regulation play a central role in influencing adolescents’ psychological and scholastic well-being. Technology is a fundamental aspect of adolescent life but addiction to the use of smartphones is increasing, which can affect both emotional intelligence and self-regulation, and in turn individual well-being and QoL. Therefore, this study explores the role of smartphone use with respect to these aspects. Participants were 215 Italian students attending middle school. By applying partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), the results confirm that self-regulation affects the QoL of students, but its role varies according to the degree of smartphone addiction. In conclusion, we confirm the relevance of the relationship between self-regulation and smartphone addiction in teaching students to be aware of their time spent using smartphones. Emotional intelligence and, in general, self-regulation should be encouraged to support the well-being and QoL of students in their adolescence at school.
Measurement of Environmental Concern: A Review and Analysis

Growing concern about the seriousness of issues such as climate change has made the value of research on social and behavioral aspects of environmental problems clearer than ever. For authors studying environmental concern or attitudes, however, survey development can be a daunting task. A large number of scales measuring environmental concern have been developed, and it can be challenging to make informed decisions about which to use. To assist authors in navigating the literature, we present a review of existing scales, followed by two studies in which we examine the structural validity of five scales that are commonly implemented in this corpus and that adhere to classical test theory. These results have important implications for general issues with measurement in this area, and inform our recommendations for authors about key considerations when selecting and using environmental concern scales.
Comparative Secretome Analysis of Mesenchymal Stem Cells From Dental Apical Papilla and Bone Marrow During Early Odonto/Osteogenic Differentiation: Potential Role of Transforming Growth Factor-β2

To understand the functions of secretory proteins in odontogenesis and to further the understanding of the different molecular events during odontogenesis and osteogenesis, we induced the odonto/osteogenic differentiation of stem cells from dental apical papilla (SCAPs) and bone marrow–derived stem cells (BMSCs) in vitro and compared the expression of secretory proteins during early odonto/osteogenic differentiation using high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. The results revealed significant changes by at least 50% in 139 SCAP proteins and 203 BMSC proteins during differentiation. Of these, 92 were significantly upregulated and 47 were significantly downregulated during the differentiation of SCAPs. Most of these proteins showed the same trend during the differentiation of BMSCs. Among the proteins that showed significantly changes during the differentiation of SCAPs and BMSCs, we found that transforming growth factor-β2 (TGFβ2) is a key protein in the network with powerful mediation ability. TGFβ2 was secreted more by SCAPs than BMSCs, was significantly upregulated during the differentiation of SCAPs and was significantly downregulated during the differentiation of BMSCs. Furthermore, the effects of recombinant human TGFβ2 and TGFβ1 on the odonto/osteogenic differentiation of SCAPs and BMSCs were investigated. Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blotting data revealed that TGFβ2 enhanced the odontogenic-related markers [dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1)] and inhibited the osteogenic-related marker bone sialoprotein (BSP) in SCAPs, whereas TGFβ1 enhanced the BSP expression and inhibited the DSPP and DMP1 expression at early odonto/osteogenic differentiation of SCAPs. However, in BMSCs, TGFβ2 enhanced the expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), DSPP, and DMP1, whereas TGFβ1 enhanced the expression of ALP and RUNX2, with no significant intergroup difference of DSPP at the early odonto/osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. TGFβ2 is a potentially important molecule with a distinct function in the regulation of odontogenesis and osteogenesis.
Novel Peptide-Based PD1 Immunomodulators Demonstrate Efficacy in Infectious Disease Vaccines and Therapeutics

Many pathogens use the same immune evasion mechanisms as cancer cells. Patients with chronic infections have elevated levels of checkpoint receptors (e.g., programed cell death 1, PD1) on T cells. Monoclonal antibody (mAb)-based inhibitors to checkpoint receptors have also been shown to enhance T-cell responses in models of chronic infection. Therefore, inhibitors have the potential to act as a vaccine “adjuvant” by facilitating the expansion of vaccine antigen-specific T-cell repertoires. Here, we report the discovery and characterization of a peptide-based class of PD1 checkpoint inhibitors, which have a potent adaptive immunity adjuvant capability for vaccines against infectious diseases. Briefly, after identifying peptides that bind to the recombinant human PD1, we screened for in vitro efficacy in reporter assays and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) readouts. We first found the baseline in vivo performance of the peptides in a standard mouse oncology model that demonstrated equivalent efficacy compared to mAbs against the PD1 checkpoint. Subsequently, two strategies were used to demonstrate the utility of our peptides in infectious disease indications: (1) as a therapeutic in a bacteria-induced lethal sepsis model in which our peptides were found to increase survival with enhanced bacterial clearance and increased macrophage function; and (2) as an adjuvant in combination with a prophylactic malaria vaccine in which our peptides increased T-cell immunogenicity and the protective efficacy of the vaccine. Therefore, our peptides are promising as both a therapeutic agent and a vaccine adjuvant for infectious disease with a potentially safer and more cost-effective target product profile compared to mAbs. These findings are essential for deploying a new immunomodulatory regimen in infectious disease primary and clinical care settings.
Treatment outcomes of drug-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis under programmatic management of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, at tertiary care center in Mumbai

Background: This study was undertaken to analyze the clinical profile and treatment outcome in pulmonary drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) patients under programmatic management of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (PMDT) at a tertiary care center in Mumbai. Methodology: A retrospective study was conducted at PMDT site of a tertiary care hospital. The data of 194 pulmonary multidrug-resistant (MDR) TB patients diagnosed at our hospital or prediagnosed patients referred to our hospital were meticulously reviewed to study demography, baseline drug susceptibility to first- and second-line drugs, treatment outcomes, comorbidities, and adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Results: Out of 194 patients, 48.4% (68 cured + 26 treatment completed) were successfully treated, 22 (11.3%) failed on therapy, 39 (20.15%) patients died, 23 (11.8%) defaulted, 26 (13.4%) completed treatment with outcomes unknown, 13 (6.7%) were transferred out and in 3 patients (1.5%) treatment was stopped due to ADRs. Most common ADRs were gastrointestinal 32 (16.4%) and psychiatric 37 (19%). However, there was no statistical significance between the prevalence of ADRs and unfavorable outcomes. Most common comorbidities were GERD 27 (40.2%) and diabetes mellitus 22 (32.8%). Conclusion: Baseline drug susceptibility testing (DST) with rapid diagnostic tests, performing DST for second-line drugs, i.e., fluoroquinolones and aminoglycoside and modification of treatment regimen based on the same at start of MDR treatment has prime importance. Early detection of ADR's and comorbidities and their prompt treatment are also equally important.
A study of Dexamethasone as an adjuvant with Bupivacaine for Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block

Background: Brachial plexus block with Bupivacaine provides effective intraoperative anesthesia and analgesia. Studies have found that the addition of Dexamethasone as an adjunct to Bupivacaine prolonged the duration of anesthesia and analgesia when compared to bupivacaine alone. Objective: to compare the onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade following administration of either bupivacaine alone or in combination with dexamethasone in supraclavicular brachial plexus block using peripheral nerve stimulator. Material and Methods: 100 ASA I and II patients, aged between 18 and 60 years, who underwent elective upper limb surgeries were randomly allocated into two equal groups. Group A received 28 ml of 0.5% Bupivacaine and 2 ml of normal saline whereas Group B recieved 28 ml of 0.5% Bupivacaine with 2ml (8mg) of Dexamethasone for supraclavicular brachial plexus block. The onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade were observed between the two groups. Results: The onset of sensory blockade was faster in Group B (7.96 min) when compared to Group A(9.08)(p<0.0001). The duration of sensory(364 min vs 1089min) and motor blockade (314min vs 1030 min) was longer in Group B (p<0.0001). There were no significant complications in the study group. Conclusion: Dexamethasone, when added to Bupivacaine in the supraclavicular brachial plexus block, shortens the onset time and prolongs the duration of sensory and motor blockade without any systemic side effects.
An evolving paradigm of cancer stem cell hierarchies: therapeutic implications

Over a decade of research has confirmed the critical role of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) in tumor initiation, chemoresistance, and metastasis. Increasingly, CSC hierarchies have begun to be defined with some recurring themes. This includes evidence that these hierarchies are 'flexible,' with both cell state transitions and dedifferentiation events possible. These findings pose therapeutic hurdles and opportunities. Here, we review cancer stem cell hierarchies and their interactions with the tumor microenvironment. We also discuss the current therapeutic approaches designed to target CSC hierarchies and initial clinical trial results for CSC targeting agents. While cancer stem cell targeted therapies are still in their infancy, we are beginning to see encouraging results that suggest a positive outlook for CSC-targeting approaches.
Heparin Prevents Histone-Induced Thrombocytopenia and Mortality.

Abstract 2106 Histones and DNA are released from activated neutrophils to form extracellular traps (NETs) which bind and kill bacteria. Histones contribute to this antimicrobial activity, but they are a double-edged sword because they are a major mediator of death in sepsis. Histones are cytotoxic and intravenous infusion of histones into mice can lead to death. Recently we have shown that NETs provide a scaffold supporting platelet adhesion, activation and thrombus formation. NETs and histones were found in deep vein thrombi. Here we show that platelets in blood are preferentially targeted by histones. Histone binding to platelets induces calcium influx, recruits fibrinogen and causes platelet aggregation which depends on the interaction of histones, fibrinogen and αIIβ3-integrins. Mice challenged intravenously with histones at sublethal concentrations developed a rapid and profound thrombocytopenia reflecting platelet aggregation in vivo . Heparin administration abolished histone interaction with platelets and prevented thrombocytopenia. Heparin also prevented histone induced cytotoxicity towards endothelial cells and rescued mice after a challenge with a lethal dose of histones. The biological function of heparin stored in granules of mast cells is not known. We propose that it may be to counteract histone-mediated thrombosis and injury during innate immune response. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
The Impact of Flipped Learning on Procrastination and Students' Attitudes toward It

The current study aimed at investigating the impact of flipped learning model on university students’ procrastination and their attitudes toward flipped learning. The study utilized a quasi-experimental research design, which employed Tuckman's procrastination test, which was administered to all 80 students enrolled in two sections at “computer in education” course offered by the Faculty of education at Hashemite University, Jordan during the first semester of the academic year 2018/2019. The study utilized two research instruments: Tuckman's “Procrastination Test” which consisted of 16 items with five alternatives for each item according to Likert Scale and attitudes questionnaire. Students were divided randomly into two groups: control and experimental groups. The 40 students in the experimental group were taught by flipped learning model while the 40 students in the control group were taught by a traditional model. To answer the research questions, means and standard deviations were calculated for students’ responses on the Tuckman's procrastination test. The results of the study showed that procrastination persisted as there were no significant differences at the level of (α = 0.05) for the benefit of flipped learning model despite the positive attitudes students showed toward flipped learning on the attitudes questionnaire. Based on the results obtained, procrastination proved to be a tough issue, which may require further attention and psychological intervention to help students to overcome the issue, capitalizing on the positive attitudes they showed toward flipped learning.
Morphological effects of whole‐body vibration on remobilization of the tibialis anterior muscle of Wistar rats

Therapeutic immobilization is a common treatment for the locomotor system; however, it causes loss of muscle due to disuse, leading to protein degradation and generating atrophy of muscle cells, ultimately changing functionality. In this sense, it is important for remobilization to be initiated early and performed with appropriate therapeutic strategies that enable tissue and functional recovery. One method of remobilization is physical exercise, among which whole body vibration (WBV) has been highlighted and mainly applied in people with reduced mobility. However, there are gaps on the morphological effects WBV has on muscle tissue, so in this study we analyzed the histomorphometry of the tibialis anterior muscle (TA) of Wistar rats remobilized using WBV. For the experiment, 32 male Wistar rats were used and divided into four groups (n = 8/group). Groups consisted of: control (CG), immobilized (IG), immobilized and remobilized freely (FG), and immobilized and remobilized with WBV (WG). After the experimental period, the TA was collected and processed for analysis in light microscopy. When compared to the control group, significant morphological changes were observed, which characterize muscle atrophy and reduction of all histomorphometric parameters of the TA of the immobilized animals. Remobilized animals showed improvement in all parameters, and the WBV was not different from the free remobilization, except for the reduction of central nuclei, which can be related to acceleration of the process of tissue regeneration. Thus, we can conclude that the WBV can have an impact on the acceleration of the muscle regenerative process, and may be beneficial in people with reduced mobility.
S3 guideline for actinic keratosis and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma – short version, part 1: diagnosis, interventions for actinic keratoses, care structures and quality‐of‐care indicators

Actinic keratoses (AK) are common lesions in light‐skinned individuals that can potentially progress to cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). Both conditions may be associated with significant morbidity and constitute a major disease burden, especially among the elderly. To establish an evidence‐based framework for clinical decision making, the guideline “actinic keratosis and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma” was developed using the highest level of methodology (S3) according to regulations issued by the Association of Scientific Medical Societies in Germany (AWMF). The guideline is aimed at dermatologists, general practitioners, ENT specialists, surgeons, oncologists, radiologists and radiation oncologists in hospitals and office‐based settings as well as other medical specialties involved in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with AK and cSCC. The guideline is also aimed at affected patients, their relatives, policy makers and insurance funds. In the first part, we will address aspects relating to diagnosis, interventions for AK, care structures and quality‐of‐care indicators.
Role of the mucins in pathogenesis of COPD: implications for therapy

ABSTRACT Introduction: Evidence accumulated in the last decade has started to reveal the enormous complexity in the expression, interactions and functions of the large number of different mucins present in the different compartments of the human lower airways. This occurs both in normal subjects and in COPD patients in different clinical phases and stages of severity. Areas covered: We review the known physiological mechanisms that regulate mucin production in human lower airways of normal subjects, the changes in mucin synthesis/secretion in COPD patients and the clinical efficacy of drugs that modulate mucin synthesis/secretion. Expert opinion: It is evident that the old simplistic concept that mucus hypersecretion in COPD patients is associated with negative clinical outcomes is not valid and that the therapeutic potential of ‘mucolytic drugs’ is under-appreciated due to the complexity of the associated molecular network(s). Likewise, our current knowledge of the effects of the drugs already available on the market that target mucin synthesis/secretion/structure in the lower airways is extremely limited and often indirect and more well-controlled clinical trials are needed in this area.
Dysplastic Aberrant Crypt Foci: Biomarkers of Early Colorectal Neoplasia and Response to Preventive Intervention

The discovery of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) more than three decades ago not only enhanced our understanding of how colorectal tumors form, but provided new opportunities to detect lesions prior to adenoma development and intervene in the colorectal carcinogenesis process even earlier. Because not all ACF progress to neoplasia, it is important to stratify these lesions based on the presence of dysplasia and establish early detection methods and interventions that specifically target dysplastic ACF (microadenomas). Significant progress has been made in characterizing the morphology and genetics of dysplastic ACF in both preclinical models and humans. Image-based methods have been established and new techniques that utilize bioactivatable probes and capture histologic abnormalities in vivo are emerging for lesion detection. Successful identification of agents that target dysplastic ACF holds great promise for intervening even earlier in the carcinogenesis process to maximize tumor inhibition. Future preclinical and clinical prevention studies should give significant attention to assessing the utility of dysplastic ACF as the earliest identifiable biomarker of colorectal neoplasia and response to therapy. See all articles in this Special Collection Honoring Paul F. Engstrom, MD, Champion of Cancer Prevention