Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Anti-Inflammatory Activities of the Ethanol Extract of Prasiola japonica, an Edible Freshwater Green Algae, and Its Various Solvent Fractions in LPS-Induced Macrophages and Carrageenan-Induced Paw Edema via the AP-1 Pathway

Prasiola japonica possesses several biological activities. However, reports on the anti-inflammatory activities and molecular mechanisms of its different solvent fractions remain limited. In this study, we investigated the potential anti-inflammatory activities of P. japonica ethanol extract (Pj-EE) and four solvent fractions of Pj-EE made with hexane (Pj-EE-HF), chloroform (Pj-EE-CF), butanol (Pj-EE-BF), or water (Pj-EE-WF) in both in vitro (LPS-induced macrophage-like RAW264.7 cells) and in vivo (carrageenan-induced acute paw edema mouse models) experiments. The most active solvent fraction was selected for further analysis. Various in vitro and in vivo assessments, including nitric oxide (NO), cytokines, luciferase assays, real-time polymerase chain reactions, and immunoblotting analyses were performed to evaluate the underlying mechanisms. In addition, the phytochemical constituents were characterized by Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In in vitro studies, the highest inhibition of NO production was observed in Pj-EE-CF. Further examination revealed that Pj-EE-CF decreased the expression of inflammation-related cytokines in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells and suppressed subsequent AP-1-luciferase activity by inhibition of phosphorylation events in the AP-1 signaling pathway. Pj-EE-CF treatment also demonstrated the strongest reduction in thickness and volume of carrageenan-induced paw edema, while Pj-EE-BF showed the lowest activity. Furthermore, Pj-EE-CF also reduced gene expression and cytokines production in tissue lysates of carrageenan-induced paw edema. These findings support and validate the evidence that Pj-EE, and especially Pj-EE-CF, could be a good natural source for an anti-inflammatory agent that targets the AP1 pathway.
A Control Technique for 120Hz DC Output Ripple-Voltage Suppression Using BIFRED with a Small-Sized Energy Storage Capacitor

This paper presents a technique to reduce the low frequency ripple voltage of the dc output in a BIFRED converter with a small-sized energy storage capacitor. The proposed pulse width control method can be effectively used to suppress the low frequency ripple appeared in the dc output and still maintains generally good performance such as low THD of input line current and a high power factor. Using the small-sized energy storage capacitor, it has better merits of low cost and smaller size than a conventional BIFRED converter. The proposed technique is illustrated its validity and effectiveness through simulations.
Exercise Training Combined with Calanus Oil Supplementation Improves the Central Cardiodynamic Function in Older Women

The aim of this study was to investigate the possible beneficial effects of exercise training (ET) with omega-3/Calanus oil supplementation on cardiorespiratory and adiposity parameters in elderly women. Fifty-five women (BMI: 19–37 kg/m2, 62–80 years old) were recruited and randomly assigned to the 4 month intervention with ET and omega-3 supplementation (Calanus oil, ET-Calanus) or ET and the placebo (sunflower oil; ET-Placebo). The body composition was determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and cardiorespiratory parameters were measured using spiroergometry and PhysioFlow hemodynamic testing. Both interventions resulted in an increased lean mass whereas the fat mass was reduced in the leg and trunk as well as the android and gynoid regions. The content of trunk fat (in percent of the total fat) was lower and the content of the leg fat was higher in the ET-Calanus group compared with the ET-Placebo. Although both interventions resulted in similar improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max), it was explained by an increased peripheral oxygen extraction (a-vO2diff) alone in the ET-Placebo group whereas increased values of both a-vO2diff and maximal cardiac output (COmax) were observed in the ET-Calanus group. Changes in COmax were associated with changes in systemic vascular resistance, circulating free fatty acids, and the omega-3 index. In conclusion, Calanus oil supplementation during a 4 month ET intervention in elderly women improved the cardiorespiratory function, which was due to combined central and peripheral cardiodynamic mechanisms.
Observation of intermediates in reaction of non-stabilized phosphonium ylide containing phosphaboratatriptycene skeleton with PhCHO

Abstract The signals of intermediates in the reaction of non-stabilized phosphonium ylide containing a phosphaboratatriptycene skeleton with PhCHO were observed as broad singlets at around −4.56 ∼ −5.77 ppm between −50 °C and −10 °C by variable temperature (VT) 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopy. The signals assignable to the same intermediates were also observed from −90 °C to −10 °C in the deprotonation of the diastereomeric mixture of β-hydroxyalkylphosphonium salts containing a phosphaboratatriptycene skeleton with TMS2NNa by VT-31P{1H} NMR spectroscopy. The results strongly suggested that the observed phosphorus signals were not assigned to 1,2-oxaphosphetanes but betaine intermediates because the signals due to 1,2-oxaphosphetanes containing phosphaheteratriptycene skeletons with Group 14 and 15 elements were observed around −55.7 ∼ −82.8 ppm except for Bi. Graphical Abstract
Conceptualizing the SocioTechnical (ST) Artifact

Goldkuhl (2013) raises several interesting issues related to conceptualizing the IT artifact. Using his analysis as a starting point, we present four additional observations: (1) So-called "IT artifacts" have both technical and social design features and are therefore better regarded as "SocioTechnical (ST) artifacts". (2) Those who deploy and employ ST artifacts do so to achieve desired consequences while avoiding undesirable ones. Along with the ST artifact, consequences - positive or negative, whether intended or not - constitute a central but underresearched topic. (3) Studying the ST artefact - consequences connection has the potential to be a unifying force in the IS field. In particular, design science needs to integrate this issue into its study of ST artifacts. (4) The study and practice of anticipating ST consequences must not be limited to existing ST artifacts. Inventors must also anticipate consequences while designing new technologies that have yet to be instantiated.
Cell-Penetrating Peptides: Emerging Tools for mRNA Delivery

Messenger RNAs (mRNAs) were previously shown to have great potential for preventive vaccination against infectious diseases and therapeutic applications in the treatment of cancers and genetic diseases. Delivery systems for mRNAs, including lipid- and polymer-based carriers, are being developed for improving mRNA bioavailability. Among these systems, cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) of 4–40 amino acids have emerged as powerful tools for mRNA delivery, which were originally developed to deliver membrane-impermeable drugs, peptides, proteins, and nucleic acids to cells and tissues. Various functionalities can be integrated into CPPs by tuning the composition and sequence of natural and non-natural amino acids for mRNA delivery. With the employment of CPPs, improved endosomal escape efficiencies, selective targeting of dendritic cells (DCs), modulation of endosomal pathways for efficient antigen presentation by DCs, and effective mRNA delivery to the lungs by dry powder inhalation have been reported; additionally, they have been found to prolong protein expression by intracellular stabilization of mRNA. This review highlights the distinctive features of CPP-based mRNA delivery systems.
Measuring the Impact of Exchange Orientation on Relationship Value: Technical Report on Methods

Relationship marketing assumes that relational exchange generates greater value than transactional exchange. This conjecture warrants particular attention in the trade of wood products where exchange is traditionally transaction-based. A multiple case study was used to investigate relationships between three Canadian wood products suppliers and their customers in the North American supply chain for residential construction. This case study addresses whether a transactional or relational exchange orientation (EO) leads to a higher relationship value (RV) between suppliers and customers. The results suggest that RV is superior in a relational EO due to the occurrence of longer-term relationships and higher degrees of interdependence, commitment, trust, communication, cooperation, and coordination between organizations. The present document presents methodological developments undertaken to measure the impact of EO on RV in the context of this case study. It first details the research protocol followed for the case study, and then presents the process for operationalizing these two concepts into measurable constructs adapted to the research context.
Changes in Structural and Rheological Properties of Guar Gum Particles in Fluidized-Bed Agglomeration: Effect of Sucrose Binder Concentration

Fluidized-bed agglomeration (FBA) is known to modify the structure and rheology of food powders. In this study, guar gum (GG) powders with various concentrations of sucrose binder (0%, 10%, 20%, or 30%) were subjected to fluidized-bed agglomeration. Subsequently, changes in the characteristics of the GG powders were evaluated by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), particle size distribution (PSD) analysis, and rheological and dispersibility measurements. SEM images and FTIR spectra revealed surface morphology changes and structural modification, respectively, in the original GG powder after FBA, although the changes observed in FTIR spectra were only slightly dependent on sucrose concentration at low concentrations (0–20%). XRD patterns confirmed that the crystallinity of the GG powder was affected by FBA, but not greatly so by binder concentration. The PSD results showed that the GG particle size was increased by FBA and there was a clear relationship between sucrose concentration (10–30%) and mean particle size. The rheological behavior and dispersibility of GG (properties that are known to be affected by the structure of a powder) were also influenced by sucrose concentration. To sum up, FBA and the concentration of sucrose binder used can serve as factors for modifying GG powder.
Determinants of side selling behaviour in emerging sorghum supply chains in Kisumu County, Kenya

Abstract Vertical coordination in agriculture has received popularity in recent years. They have emerged to transform farm enterprises from subsistence farming to commercially oriented production. Despite the importance attached to them, some farm enterprise owners are involved in side selling even though they are committed to specific vertical coordination strategic options. Factors influencing this behaviour are still unclear in the empirical literature. This study intends to bridge this gap by determining the extent of side selling in sorghum supply chains in Kisumu County. A stratified sampling technique was used to collect data from 266 sorghum farm enterprises. Primary data was obtained through interviews using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire administered by trained enumerators. The study used Fractional Response Model to determine the extent of side selling among sorghum farm enterprises. Results from Fractional Response Model reveal that farming experience, better prices from alternative markets, neighbourhood effect, frequency of contacts, low bargaining power and network externalities influence side selling positively. Whereas other forms of income, land size, credit access and trust reduces the probability of side selling. These results indicate that policymakers should generate policies that will strengthen the legal institutions in agriculture regarding breaching of agreements reducing the side selling behaviours of sorghum producers.
Impact of Alcohol Consumption on Male Fertility Potential: A Narrative Review

Alcohol abuse disorder is a serious condition, implicating more than 15 million people aged 12 years and older in 2019 in the United States. Ethanol (or ethyl alcohol) is mainly oxidized in the liver, resulting in the synthesis of acetaldehyde and acetate, which are toxic and carcinogenic metabolites, as well as in the generation of a reductive cellular environment. Moreover, ethanol can interact with lipids, generating fatty acid ethyl esters and phosphatidylethanol, which interfere with physiological cellular pathways. This narrative review summarizes the impact of excessive alcohol consumption on male fertility by describing its metabolism and how ethanol consumption may induce cellular damage. Furthermore, the impact of alcohol consumption on hormonal regulation, semen quality, and genetic and epigenetic regulations is discussed based on evidence from animal and human studies, focusing on the consequences on the offspring. Finally, the limitations of the current evidence are discussed. Our review highlights the association between chronic alcohol consumption and poor semen quality, mainly due to the development of oxidative stress, as well as its genotoxic impact on hormonal regulation and DNA integrity, affecting the offspring’s health. New landscapes of investigation are proposed for the identification of molecular markers for alcohol-associated infertility, with a focus on advanced OMICS-based approaches applied to the analysis of semen samples.
Teaching Modern Greek History with Multimedia & the Internet as Cognitive Tools The Emerging Prospects and Conflicts

This paper highlights the emerging prospects and conflicts from the application of new technologies, primarily computer-based multimedia and the Internet as cognitive learning tools in the modern Greek history classroom. The relationship between the use of multimedia technology and the teaching of modern Greek history is a very recent one as the materials and the case studies available are limited. Nevertheless, the emphasis in the use of multimedia and the Internet as cognitive learning tools rather than instructional media tools in the hands of designer-developers for the purpose of creating prescribed linear communications and interactions in order to transmit information to the learner creates both opportunities and deficits when dealing with modern Greek history. Aspects of modern Greek history that are on purpose overlooked by the official curriculum surface when collecting and analyzing primary sources, while ideas such as the understanding of the Greek nation as an eternal entity, not a product of history are easy to communicate in a traditional linear fashion but very difficult in a constructivist learning environment when students are again asked to create history via the use of primary sources. “Some of our best thinking results when students try to represent what they know. Thinking is embedded in the tasks and functional requirements of cognitive tools” (Jonassen et al., 1993). The case of Greece is an important one to study because of the strong emphasis the Greek educational system attaches to the teaching of Greek history from antiquity to the present for purposes of highlighting a national identity (Avdela, 2000). At the same time the official Greek state is promoting heavily the use of computer based multimedia and the Internet setting the stage for new opportunities in learning which in turn promote creative thinking that are bound to challenge the official line. Rich in contemporary history the modern Greek history classroom is an excellent setting to apply new technologies as cognitive learning tools rather than as instructional media. Additional challenges such as the particularities of the modern Greek language with its ideological and political manifestations in texts in correlation with the socio-economical and political complexities experienced by Greek political life offer additional leverage for creative thinking on part of the learners to challenge the official linear history timeline promoted in the textbooks.
Predictive Vector Quantizer Design Using

A new approach is proposed for predictive vector quantizer (PVQ) design, which is inherently probabilistic, and is based on ideas from information theory and analogies to statistical physics. The approach effectively resolves three longstanding fundamental shortcomings of standard PVQ design. The first complication is due to the PVQ prediction loop, which has a detrimental impact on the convergence and the stability of the design procedure. The second shortcoming is due to the piecewise constant nature of the quantizer function, which makes it difficult to optimize the predictor with respect to the overall reconstruction error. Finally, a shortcoming inherited from standard VQ design is the tendency of the design algorithm to terminate at a locally, rather than the globally, optimal solution. We propose a new PVQ design approach that embeds our recent asymptotic closed-loop (ACL) approach within a deterministic annealing (DA) frame- work. The overall DA-ACL method profits from its two main components in a complementary way. ACL is used to overcome the first difficulty and offers the means for stable quantizer design as it provides an open-loop design platform, yet allows the PVQ design algorithm to asymptotically converge to optimization of the closed-loop performance objective. DA simultaneously mitigates or eliminates the remaining design shortcomings. Its probabilistic framework replaces hard quantization with a differentiable expected cost function that can be jointly optimized for the predictor and quantizer parameters, and its annealing schedule allows the avoidance of many poor local optima. Substantial performance gains over traditional methods have been achieved in the simulations.
The Role of p53 Protein in the Realization of the Exogenous Heat Shock Protein 70 Anti-Apoptotic Effect during Axotomy

The search for effective neuroprotective agents for the treatment of neurotrauma has always been of great interest to researchers around the world. Extracellular heat shock protein 70 (eHsp70) is considered a promising agent to study, as it has been demonstrated to exert a significant neuroprotective activity against various neurodegenerative diseases. We showed that eHsp70 can penetrate neurons and glial cells when added to the incubation medium, and can accumulate in the nuclei of neurons and satellite glial cells after axotomy. eHsp70 reduces apoptosis and necrosis of the glial cells, but not the neurons. At the same time, co-localization of eHsp70 with p53 protein, one of the key regulators of apoptosis, was noted. eHsp70 reduces the level of the p53 protein apoptosis promoter both in glial cells and in the nuclei and cytoplasm of neurons, which indicates its neuroprotective effect. The ability of eHsp70 to reverse the proapoptotic effect of the p53 activator WR1065 may indicate its ability to regulate p53 activity or its proteosome-dependent degradation.
Photo-Oxidation of Therapeutic Protein Formulations: From Radical Formation to Analytical Techniques

UV and ambient light-induced modifications and related degradation of therapeutic proteins are observed during manufacturing and storage. Therefore, to ensure product quality, protein formulations need to be analyzed with respect to photo-degradation processes and eventually protected from light exposure. This task usually demands the application and combination of various analytical methods. This review addresses analytical aspects of investigating photo-oxidation products and related mediators such as reactive oxygen species generated via UV and ambient light with well-established and novel techniques.
Towards the design of contrast-enhanced agents: systematic Ga3+ doping on magnetite nanoparticles.

The main objective of the preparation of the Fe3-xGaxO4 (0.14 ≤ x ≤ 1.35) system was to further the knowledge of the magnetic response of Ga3+-doped magnetite for application as MRI contrast agents. With this purpose, monodisperse nanoparticles between 7 and 10 nm with different amounts of gallium were prepared from an optimized protocol based on thermal decomposition of metallo-organic precursors. Thorough characterization of the sample was conducted in order to understand the influence of gallium doping on the structural, morphological and magnetic properties of the Fe3-xGaxO4 system. X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption near-edge structure measurements have proved the progressive incorporation of Ga in the spinel structure, with different occupations in both tetrahedral and octahedral sites. Magnetization measurements as a function of field temperature have shown a clear dependence of magnetic saturation on the gallium content, reaching an Ms value of 110 Am2 kg-1 at 5 K for x = 0.14 (significantly higher than bulk magnetite) and considerably decreasing for amounts above x = 0.57 of gallium. For this reason, nanoparticles with moderate Ga quantities were water-transferred by coating them with the amphiphilic polymer PMAO to further analyse their biomedical potential. Cytotoxicity assays have demonstrated that Fe3-xGaxO4@PMAO formulations with x ≤ 0.57, which are the ones with better magnetic response, are not toxic for cells. Finally, the effect of gallium doping on relaxivities has been analysed by measuring longitudinal (T1-1) and transverse (T1-1) proton relaxation rates at 1.4 T revealing that nanoparticles with x = 0.14 Ga3+ content present remarkable T2 contrast and the nanoparticles with x = 0.26 have great potential to act as dual T1-T2 contrast agents.
Supramolecular Nanostructures for Vaccines

Although this is an era of pandemics and many devastating diseases, this is also a time when bionanotechnology flourishes, illuminating a multidisciplinary field where vaccines are quickly becoming a balsam and a prevention against insidious plagues. In this work, we tried to gain and also give a deeper understanding on nanovaccines and their way of acting to prevent or cure cancer, infectious diseases, and diseases caused by parasites. Major nanoadjuvants and nanovaccines are temptatively exemplified trying to contextualize our own work and its relative importance to the field. The main properties for novel adjuvants seem to be the nanosize, the cationic character, and the biocompatibility, even if it is achieved in a low dose-dependent manner.
Substance Use and Trauma Among Adult Education Students in the United States

Adult basic education (ABE) programs in the United States serve millions of students annually to help them achieve high school equivalency, English proficiency, and other skills. These skills are necessary for upward mobility and competitiveness in the labor market, which is important for ABE students who are disproportionately affected by racial/ethnic disparities and poverty. Among learners who are not in ABE programs, substance use and trauma affect student outcomes. Similar research is limited among ABE students. Understanding the influence of these factors among ABE students can better inform interventions. The current study, grounded in Stress and Coping Theory, examined rates, risk factors, and gender differences for substance use and trauma among 286 ABE students. Results indicated that trauma is prevalent and associated with substance use, substance use suggests a need for brief counseling, and there were gender differences in substance use behaviors. Recommendations for interventions among ABE programs are discussed.