Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Long-term care staff ’s positive experiences of caring for people living with dementia: Narratives’ content and lessons learned

Research on caregiving for persons with dementia has mainly focused on its negative impact on caregivers. However, while some studies have found that positive aspects of care can also be found among informal caregivers, little attention has been paid to these positive aspects among staff working in long-term care facilities. The aim of this is study is to explore what kind of positive stories of caring for a person living with dementia staff working in long-term care facilities recall, and what kind of lessons they extracted from these experiences. Forty-two staff members currently working in four Spanish long-term care facilities (21 nursing assistants; 21 technical staff) were interviewed. They were asked about positive stories related to caring for people living with dementia. Data were analyzed using content analysis, aimed at identifying common ideas in the responses. Results showed that the type of stories were quite diverse, but can be grouped into three main themes: attachment, awakening, and mastery. The stories imply different lessons learned, including the importance of individualized care, the value of persistence and patience, and the relevance of technical knowledge and strategies to provide good care. The articles discusses how recording, reflecting on and discussing positive experiences that care staff encounter in their daily practice, may be key to skill development, reinforce job satisfaction, and improve quality of care in a person-centered care direction.
Metal-Organic Framework-Based Biosensor for Detecting Hydrogen Peroxide in Plants through Color-to-Thermal Signal Conversion.

Plant biotic or abiotic stresses, such as pathogens, mechanical damage, or high temperature, can increase intracellular H2O2 concentration, damaging proteins, lipids, and DNA. Most current H2O2 detection methods require the separation or grinding of plant samples, inducing plant stresses, and the process is complicated and time-consuming. This paper constructed a metal-organic framework (MOF)-based biosensor for real-time, remote, and in situ detection of exogenous/endogenous H2O2 in plant organs through color-to-thermal signal conversion. By simply spraying horseradish peroxidase, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and the precursor of zeolite imidazolate frameworks-8 (ZIF-8), ZIF-8 biosensors were formed in situ on a plant root, petiole, or leaf. This biosensor could report sub-micromolar H2O2 in plants since the oxidation products, ABTS• +, emitted heat when they absorbed energy from near-infrared (NIR) light. Due to the plant's low absorption in the NIR region, the ZIF-8 biosensor allowed for remote thermal sensing of H2O2 transport or biotic/abiotic stresses in plants with a high signal-to-noise ratio combining NIR laser and thermometer. Our biosensor can be used for the future development of plant sensors for monitoring plant signaling pathways and metabolism that are nondestructive, minimally invasive, and capable of real-time, in situ analysis.
Bactericidal Anti-Adhesion Potential Integrated Polyoxazoline/Silver Nanoparticle Composite Multilayer Film with pH Responsiveness

Bacterial infections occur frequently during the implantation of medical devices, and functional coating is one of the effective means to prevent and remove biofilms. In this study, three different hydrophilic polyoxazolines with carboxyl groups (aPOx: PT1, PT2 and PT3) and bactericidal silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized successfully, and an aPOx-AgNP multilayer film was prepared by electrostatic layer-by-layer self-assembly. The effect of charge density and assembly solution concentration was explored, and the optimal self-assembly parameters were established (PT2 1 mg/mL and AgNPs 3 mg/mL). The hydrophilicity of the surface can be enhanced to resist protein adhesion if the outermost layer is aPOx, and AgNPs can be loaded to kill bacteria, thereby realizing the bactericidal anti-adhesion potential integration of the aPOx-AgNP multilayer film. In addition, the aPOx-AgNP multilayer film was found to have the characteristic of intelligent and efficient pH-responsive silver release, which is expected to be used as a targeted anti-biofilm surface of implantable medical devices.
Exploratory application of an integrated topic‐based curriculum in biochemistry experimental teaching

Biochemistry, a complicated basic course in health sciences, plays a fundamental role in describing pathogenic mechanism of illness in molecular terms, and is required to be learned for all medical students. Due to various obstacles to biochemistry learning and teaching, there is a pressing issue of curriculum reform to arouse the student's enthusiasm in biochemistry learning. In this study, an integrated topic‐based biochemistry training program (TBBTP) combining the traditional lectures, question‐based learning and experimental practices, was introduced in biochemistry teaching. Its effectiveness was evaluated through examination and questionnaire analyses. Consequently, we found that TBBTP promoted the dissemination of biochemical knowledge via traditional lecture, designated learning issues and experimental practices, and acquisition of various skills through practical operation, presentation, and independent learning. It motivated students to study biochemistry with intense interest and enthusiasm. This study explored the feasibility of the topic‐based biochemistry teaching as a supplement to biochemistry curriculum in medical education and as a mainstream pedagogy in biochemistry lab.
Effects of Chlorhexidine and Povidone-Iodine on the SARS-CoV-2 Load: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract The efficacy of mouthwash for reducing the viral load in patients with the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis comprehensively examined the effects of chlorhexidine (CHX) and povidone-iodine (PVP-I) on the viral load in patients with COVID-19. We performed methodological analysis, systematic review, and meta-analysis of included studies using the Comprehensive Meta-analysis Software. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and ProQuest were searched from December 1, 2019, to December 2, 2021. In total, we included 10 studies of 1,339 patients with COVID-19. Compared with the control group, both CHX and PVP-I significantly reduced the number of negative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) results ( p <0.001) among COVID-19 patients. The CHX and PVP-I were effective on reducing the number of negative RT-PCR results in COVID-19 patients. Additional studies using adequate randomization methods and larger samples are warned.
Molecular response of keloids to ionizing radiation: targeting FOXO1 radiosensitizes keloids

Abstract Purpose Keloids are benign dermal tumors that arise from abnormal wound healing processes following skin lesions. Surgical excision followed by radiotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of keloids. Nevertheless, radioresistance remains a serious impediment to treatment efficacy. Investigation of the molecular response of keloids to radiation may contribute to radiosensitizing strategies. Materials and methods Primary keloid fibroblasts from human keloids were isolated and irradiated with X-ray. The expression profiles of messenger RNA (mRNA) in nonradiated and irradiated primary keloid fibroblasts were measured by mRNA sequencing analysis. Then, we identified common motifs and corresponding transcription factors of dysregulated mRNAs by using bioinformatic analysis of the proximal promoters. Whereafter, GO and KEGG were used to analyze the functional enrichment of the differentially expressed genes. Results We found that radiation not only suppressed proliferation but also increased cell senescence of primary keloid fibroblasts. There were 184 mRNAs and 204 mRNAs that showed significant changes in 4 and 8 Gy irradiated primary keloid fibroblasts, respectively. Among them, 8 upregulated and 30 downregulated mRNAs showed consistent alterations in 4 and 8 Gy irradiated primary keloid fibroblasts. More importantly, the xForkhead box O1 (FOXO1) signaling pathway was involved in the irradiation response. Pretreatment with the FOXO1 signaling inhibitor AS1842856 significantly promoted LDH release, apoptosis and senescence of primary keloid fibroblasts following irradiation. Conclusion Our findings illustrated the molecular changes in human keloid fibroblasts in response to radiation, and FOXO1 pathway inhibition is expected to provide a novel strategy for the radiosensitization of keloids.
In-Vehicle Communication Cyber Security: Challenges and Solutions

In-vehicle communication has become an integral part of today’s driving environment considering the growing add-ons of sensor-centric communication and computing devices inside a vehicle for a range of purposes including vehicle monitoring, physical wiring reduction, and driving efficiency. However, related literature on cyber security for in-vehicle communication systems is still lacking potential dedicated solutions for in-vehicle cyber risks. Existing solutions are mainly relying on protocol-specific security techniques and lacking an overall security framework for in-vehicle communication. In this context, this paper critically explores the literature on cyber security for in-vehicle communication focusing on technical architecture, methodologies, challenges, and possible solutions. In-vehicle communication network architecture is presented considering key components, interfaces, and related technologies. The protocols for in-vehicle communication have been classified based on their characteristics, and usage type. Security solutions for in-vehicle communication have been critically reviewed considering machine learning, cryptography, and port-centric techniques. A multi-layer secure framework is also developed as a protocol and use case-independent in-vehicle communication solution. Finally, open challenges and future dimensions of research for in-vehicle communication cyber security are highlighted as observations and recommendations.
Improving Predictive Power and Risk Reduction of Portfolio Models Based on Principal Component Analysis

In our previous study, we enhanced the predictive power of the principal component portfolio (PCP) model by applying a nonlinear prediction model. However, here we point out that this modification destroys the no-correlation relationship among the principal components, and accordingly the portfolio effect of risk reduction is weakened. To solve this problem, we mixed the advantages of the PCP model and our nonlinear portfolio model. To confirm the validity of this, we performed some investment simulations with real stock data and confirmed that our new portfolio model improves the predictive power and risk-reduction power simultaneously, that is, it improves the efficiency and safety of portfolio management.
Reversible Self-Assembled Monolayers with Tunable Surface Dynamics for Controlling Cell Adhesion Behavior

Cells adhering onto surfaces sense and respond to chemical and physical surface features. The control over cell adhesion behavior influences cell migration, proliferation, and differentiation, which are important considerations in biomaterial design for cell culture, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. Here, we report on a supramolecular-based approach to prepare reversible self-assembled monolayers (rSAMs) with tunable lateral mobility and dynamic control over surface composition to regulate cell adhesion behavior. These layers were prepared by incubating oxoacid-terminated thiol SAMs on gold in a pH 8 HEPES buffer solution containing different mole fractions of ω-(ethylene glycol)2-4- and ω-(GRGDS)-, α-benzamidino bolaamphiphiles. Cell shape and morphology were influenced by the strength of the interactions between the amidine-functionalized amphiphiles and the oxoacid of the underlying SAMs. Dynamic control over surface composition, achieved by the addition of inert filler amphiphiles to the RGD-functionalized rSAMs, reversed the cell adhesion process. In summary, rSAMs featuring mobile bioactive ligands offer unique capabilities to influence and control cell adhesion behavior, suggesting a broad use in biomaterial design, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.
Pharmacotherapy in Clinical Trials for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective There is no medical treatment proven to limit abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) progression. This systematic review aimed to summarise available trial evidence on the efficacy of pharmacotherapy in limiting AAA growth and AAA-related events. Methods A systematic literature search was performed to examine the efficacy of pharmacotherapy in reducing AAA growth and AAA-related events. Pubmed, Embase (Excerpta Medica Database), and the Cochrane library were searched from March, 1999 to March 29, 2022. AAA growth (mm/year) in the intervention and control groups was expressed as mean and standard deviation (SD). The results of AAA growth were expressed as mean difference (MD) and its 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for the AAA-related events.Heterogeneity was quantified using the I2 statistic. Forest plots were created to show the pooled results of each outcome. Outcomes A total of 1373 articles were found in different databases according to the search strategy, and 10 articles were identified by hand searching. A total of 26 articles were included in our systematic review after the screening. For the studies of metformin, the meta-analysis demonstrated that metformin use was associated with a lower AAA growth rate (MD: −0.81 mm/y, 95% CI: −1.19 to −0.42, P < 0.0001, I2 = 87%), Metformin use also was related to the lower rates of AAA-related events (OR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.36 to 0.76, P = 0.0007, I2 = 60%). The hypotensive drugs of the studies mainly included angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI), angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockers (ARB), and propranolol. The overall meta-analysis of blood pressure-lowering drugs reported no significant effect in limiting the AAA growth (MD: 0.31mm/year, 95%CI: −0.03 to 0.65, P = 0.07, I2 = 66%) and AAA-related events (OR: 1.33, 95%CI: 0.76 to 2.32, P = 0.32, I2 = 98%), In the subgroup analysis of the hypotensive drugs, the ACEI/ARB and propranolol also showed no significant in reducing the AAA growth and AAA-related events. The meta-analysis of the antibiotics demonstrated that the antibiotics were not associated with a lower AAA growth rate (MD: −0.27 mm/y, 95% CI: −0.88 to 0.34, P = 0.39, I2 = 77%) and AAA-related events (OR: 0.94, 95%CI: 0.65 to 1.35, P = 0.72, I2 = 0%). The results of statins also showed no significant effect in limiting AAA growth (MD: −1.11mm/year, 95%CI: −2.38 to 0.16, P = 0.09, I2 = 96%) and AAA-related events (OR: 0.53, 95%CI: 0.26 to 1.06, P = 0.07, I2 = 92%). Conclusion In conclusion, effective pharmacotherapy for AAA was still lacking. Although the meta-analysis showed that metformin use was associated with lower AAA growth and AAA-related events, all of the included studies about metformin were cohort studies or case-control studies. More randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed for further verification.
High-Throughput Generation, Manipulation, and Degradation of Magnetic Nanoparticle-Laden Alginate Core-Shell Beads for Single Bacteria Culturing Analysis

Microbes could be found almost everywhere around us and have significant impacts on our human society. The treatment of microorganisms has long been seen as a complex problem. Till now, most of the genetic and phenotypic information regarding rare species is buried in the bulk microbial colony due to a lack of efficient tools to screen live bacteria. Droplet microfluidics offers a powerful approach to address this problem. However, the interactions among bacteria and their living environment are entirely restricted by the water/oil interfaces in conventional water/oil single emulsion-based microfluidic systems. Here, we demonstrate an oil-mediated all-aqueous microfluidic workflow that can overcome this drawback. In contrast to the previous works, our all-aqueous culturing environment allows cell-cell and cell-environment interactions, thus facilitating the growth of bacteria. Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles added into the alginate beads enables on-chip manipulation of the microcapsules. The core-shell structure separately encapsulates bacteria and magnetic particles in the core and shell to avoid contamination. We demonstrate the feasibility of this approach by single bacterium culturing in droplet-templated alginate beads. Finally, a new approach is proposed to degrade the alginate beads for post-treatment. This novel microfluidic workflow can create new opportunities for microbial applications, such as bacteria culturing and screening.
Viral species differentially influence macronutrient preferences based on honey bee genotype

ABSTRACT Food quantity and macronutrients contribute to honey bee health and colony survival by mediating immune responses. We determined if this held true for bees injected with chronic bee paralysis virus (CBPV) and deformed wing virus (DWV), two common honey bee ssRNA viruses. Pollen-substitute diet and syrup consumption rates and macronutrient preferences of two Varroa-resistant stocks (Pol-Line and Russian bees) were compared to Varroa-susceptible Italian bees. Bee stocks varied in consumption, where Italian bees consumed more than Pol-Line and Russian bees. However, the protein: lipid (P:L) ratios of diet consumed by the Italian and Russian bees was greater than that of the Pol-Line bees. Treatment had different effects on consumption based on the virus injected. CBPV was positively correlated with syrup consumption, while DWV was not correlated with consumption. P:L ratios of consumed diet were significantly impacted by the interaction of bee stock and treatment, with the trends differing between CBPV and DWV. Variation in macronutrient preferences based on viral species may indicate differences in energetic costs associated with immune responses to infections impacting different systems. Further, virus species interacted with bee genotype, indicating different mechanisms of viral resistance or tolerance among honey bee genotypes.
Progress in Respiratory Gene Therapy

The prospect of gene therapy for inherited and acquired respiratory disease has energized the research community since the 1980s, with cystic fibrosis, as a monogenic disorder, driving early efforts to develop effective strategies. The fact that there are still no approved gene therapy products for the lung, despite many early phase clinical trials, illustrates the scale of the challenge: in the 1990s, first generation non-viral and viral vector systems demonstrated proof-of-concept but low efficacy. Since then, there has been steady progress towards improved vectors with the capacity to overcome at least some of the formidable barriers presented by the lung. In addition, the inclusion of features such as codon optimisation and promoters providing long-term expression have improved the expression characteristics of therapeutic transgenes. Early approaches were based on gene addition, where a new DNA copy of a gene is introduced to complement a genetic mutation: however, the advent of RNA-based products that can directly express a therapeutic protein or manipulate gene expression, together with the expanding range of tools for gene editing, has stimulated the development of alternative approaches. This review discusses the range of vector systems being evaluated for lung delivery; the variety of cargoes they deliver, including DNA, antisense oligonucleotides, mRNA, siRNA and peptide nucleic acids; and exemplifies progress in selected respiratory disease indications.
Tell me all about it: Narrated memories are less emotional than imagined memories

People often re-live memories by talking about them. Verbal thinking is usually less emotive than imagery-based thinking but it is not known if this finding generalises to recollection. We tested if narrating memories aloud reduces their affective charge compared with recollecting them using imagery. Participants were randomised to two conditions: imagery (recalling the memory silently as vividly as possible) or narration (describing the memory out loud as clearly as possible). After practicing with a neutral topic, they recalled three aversive (Experiments 1 and 2) or three happy (Experiment 3) memories using narration or imagery, and rated emotionality of the memory after each recall. Before and after the procedure, they completed the PANAS to measure effects on mood. Experiments 2 and 3 included a 24 h follow-up. Emotionality was consistently lower following narrated recollection than imaginal recollection: narrated M = 5.3, SD = 2.5; imaginal M = 7.2, SD = 2.0; effect size (difference in mean values divided by overall SD) = 0.78. Negative affect increased after recollection of aversive memories and positive affect decreased, but there were no effects of condition upon mood. Recalling a positive memory had no effect on mood. Follow-up data showed no lasting effects of recall mode on availability of memories or mood. We conclude that narration of emotional autobiographical memories reduces the emotionality of the recollection, but does not differentially change mood compared with image-based recall.
Flavonoids composition, antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and cytotoxic activities of flowers extract of Senna cearensis Afr. Fern

Abstract The Senna genus has a wide diversity of species, with an interesting chemical composition of secondary metabolites and applications as medicine. The folk medicine, mainly in developing countries, uses species of Senna to treat seizures, epilepsy and constipation. Though the recognized bioactivity, some Brazilian native species of Senna remain unexplored, such as Senna cearensis, a native species of Caatinga. This is the first report about the bioactivity of the flowers of S. cearensis Afr. Fern. , a native species of northeast Brazil. In this communication, flavonoids and catechins are identified in S. cearensis flowers and the chemical composition is linked with its antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and cytotoxic activities. By UPLC-QTOF, some compounds that belong to the class of flavonoids were identified. They are: catechin, epigallocatechin, guibourtinidol-(4α-8)-catechin, and cassiaflavan-(Cat)-epicatechin. The cytotoxic activity is more noticeable for the HL60 (leukemia) cell line with a cell growth inhibition (GI%) of 81.65 ± 5.65. Graphical Abstract