Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effects of Probiotic Culture Supernatant on Cariogenic Biofilm Formation and RANKL-Induced Osteoclastogenesis in RAW 264.7 Macrophages

Postbiotics are a promising functional ingredient that can overcome the limitations of viability and storage stability that challenge the production of probiotics. To evaluate the effects of postbiotics on oral health, eight spent culture supernatants (SCSs) of probiotics were prepared, and the effects of SCSs on Streptococcus mutans-induced cariogenic biofilm formation and the receptor activator of the nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclastogenesis were evaluated in RAW 264.7 macrophages. SCS of Lactobacillus salivarius MG4265 reduced S. mutans-induced biofilm formation by 73% and significantly inhibited tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity, which is a biomarker of mature osteoclasts in RAW 264.7 macrophages. The suppression of RANKL-induced activation of mitogen activated the protein kinases (c-Jun N-terminal kinase, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, and p38) and nuclear factor κB pathways, as well as the upregulation of heme oxygenase-1 expression. The suppression of RANK-L-induced activation of mitogen also inhibited the expression of transcriptional factors (c-fos and nuclear factor of activated T cells cytoplasmic 1) and, subsequently, osteoclastogenesis-related gene expression (tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive (TRAP), cathepsin K, and matrix metalloproteinase-9). Therefore, SCS of L. salivarius MG4265 has great potential as a multifunctional oral health ingredient that inhibits biofilm formation and suppresses the alveolar bone loss that is associated with periodontitis.
Bridging the Ruddlesden–Popper and the Dion–Jacobson series of layered perovskites: synthesis of layered oxides, A2–xLa2Ti3–xNbxO10(A = K, Rb), exhibiting ion exchange

Solid solutions of the formula, A2–xLa2Ti3–xNbxO10(A = K, Rb), exist for the range 0⩽x⩽1.0, bridging n= 3 members of the Ruddlesden–Popper series (A2La2Ti3O10) and the Dion–Jacobson series (ALa2Ti2NbO10). For 0⩽x⩽0.75, the phases possess body-centred structures characteristic of the Ruddlesden–Popper phases, while the x= 1 members are isostructural with KCa2Nb3O10(A = K) and CsCa2Nb3O10(A = Rb). Protonated derivatives, H2–xLa2Ti3–xNbxO10, which are prepared by ion exchange, retain the structural difference of the parent phases. A difference in the Bronsted acidity of the protonated derivatives revealed by intercalation experiments with organic bases seems to be related to this structural difference.
Intermolecular hydrogen-bonding effects on photophysics and photochemistry

Intermolecular hydrogen bonding, as an important site-specific interaction between hydrogen donor and acceptor molecules both in the gas phase and in solution, plays a significant role and has a remarkable influence on the photophysics and photochemistry of chromophores in the hydrogen-bonding surroundings. In recent years, the excited-state structures and dynamics of the intermolecular hydrogen bonding have been widely investigated by using both the experimental and theoretical methods. This review article focuses on the recent research progress of the important intermolecular hydrogen-bonding effects on the non-adiabatic photophysical processes and photochemical reactions. Firstly, the corresponding relationship between electronic spectral red-shift or blue-shift and excited-state intermolecular hydrogen bond strengthening or weakening has been clarified. A dynamic equilibrium induced by the intermolecular hydrogen bond strengthening in the electronically excited state of fluorenone chromophore was used to explain the steady-state spectral features. The stepwise mechanism of excited-state double proton transfer reaction for the 2-aminopyridine/acid systems was demonstrated. The role of intermolecular hydrogen bonding on the excited-state proton transfer in the sensing mechanism of fluorescent probes has also been discussed. Moreover, a dihydrogen-bonded complex formed by borane-trimethylamine and phenol showed interesting geometric structures and infared spectrum in electronically excited state.
Investigation of Association of Rare, Functional Genetic Variants With Heavy Drinking and Problem Drinking in Exome Sequenced UK Biobank Participants

Aims The study aimed to identify specific genes and functional genetic variants affecting susceptibility to two alcohol related phenotypes: heavy drinking and problem drinking. Methods Phenotypic and exome sequence data was downloaded from the UK Biobank. Reported drinks in the last 24 hours was used to define heavy drinking while responses to a mental health questionnaire defined problem drinking. Gene-wise weighted burden analysis was applied, with genetic variants which were rarer and/or had a more severe functional effect being weighted more highly. Additionally, previously reported variants of interest were analysed inidividually. Results Of exome sequenced subjects, for heavy drinking there were 8,166 cases and 84,461 controls while for problem drinking there were 7,811 cases and 59,606 controls. No gene was formally significant after correction for multiple testing but three genes possibly related to autism were significant at p < 0.001, FOXP1, ARHGAP33 and CDH9, along with VGF which may also be of psychiatric interest. Well established associations with rs1229984 in ADH1B and rs671 in ALDH2 were confirmed but previously reported variants in ALDH1B1 and GRM3 were not associated with either phenotype. Conclusions This large study fails to conclusively implicate any novel genes or variants. It is possible that more definitive results will be obtained when sequence data for the remaining UK Biobank participants becomes available and/or if data can be obtained for a more extreme phenotype such as alcohol dependence disorder. This research has been conducted using the UK Biobank Resource.
Gendered Deference: Perceptions of Authority and Competence among Latina/o Physicians in Medical Institutions

Prior studies note that gender- and race-based discrimination routinely inhibit women’s advancement in medical fields. Yet few studies have examined how gendered displays of deference and demeanor are interpreted by college-educated and professional Latinas/os who are making inroads into prestigious and masculinized nontraditional fields such as medicine. In this article, we elucidate how gender shapes perceptions of authority and competence among the same pan-ethnic group, and we use deference and demeanor as an analytical tool to examine these processes. Our analysis underscores three main points of difference: (1) gendered cultural taxation; (2) microaggressions from women nurses and staff and; (3) the questioning of authority and competence to elucidate how gendered racism manifests for Latina/o doctors. Taking demonstrations of gendered deference and demeanors are vital to transforming medical schools and creating more inclusive spaces for all physicians and patients. Conclusions are based on experiences reported in interviews with 48 Latina/o physicians and observation in their places of work in Southern California.
Morphological Patterns Of Anemia Among Under Five Children On Prevention Of Mother-To-Child Transmission (PMTCT) Programmes In Masogo Sub-County Hospital, Kisumu County, Kenya.

Background: Anaemia during childhood adversely affects mental, physical and social development of the children, therefore morphological patterns of anaemia in under- five children are considered essential for classification, diagnosis and management. Aim: This study aimed at assessing morphological patterns, the prevalence and associated factors of anaemia among under-five children on Prevention of Mother-To-Child Transmission (PMTCT) programmes in Masogo sub-county hospital, Kisumu County, Kenya. Method: A cross-sectional health facility-based study was conducted among 175 children aged 6 to 59 months who attended clinic for the PMTCT programme for the period of January 2020 to December 2020. Pretested and structured questionnaires were used to collect socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of the family and child. Capillary blood sample was collected from each child for malaria parasite and Peripheral Blood Film (PBF) examination. Result: Complete blood counts indicate that microcytic pattern was the most common, representing 30 (42.3%) followed by microcytic hypochromic pattern 20 (28.2%), normocytic normochromic pattern with 11 (15.5%) and lastly dimorphic pattern with 10 (14.0%). High prevalence of anaemia was observed in children who were urban dwellers (50.0%), in children whose mothers aged 18-27 years (44.0%) and had no formal education (48.1%). Besides, the high prevalence rate of anaemia was found among children with a family monthly income of less than 500 Ksh. (46.9%), early (<6 months) introduction of complementary foods (71.4%) Conclusion: This study has revealed that the prevalence of anaemia in children less than five years is high and is a severe public health problem in the study area. Therefore, the policymakers should make a strategy that can reduce poverty and increase the awareness to women on breastfeeding, nutrition, and other associated factors to reduce anaemia.
High Prevalence of Multidrug-Resistant Clostridioides difficile Following Extensive Use of Antimicrobials in Hospitalized Patients in Kenya

Introduction Clostridioides difficile is a neglected pathogen in many African countries as it is generally not regarded as one of the major contributors toward the diarrheal disease burden in the continent. However, several studies have suggested that C. difficile infection (CDI) may be underreported in many African settings. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of CDI in hospitalized patients, evaluate antimicrobial exposure, and detect toxin and antimicrobial resistance profiles of the isolated C. difficile strains. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 333 hospitalized patients with hospital-onset diarrhoea were selected. The stool samples were collected and cultured on cycloserine-cefoxitin egg yolk agar (CCEY). Isolates were presumptively identified by phenotypic characteristics and Gram stain and confirmed by singleplex real-time PCR (qPCR) assays detecting the species-specific tpi gene, toxin A (tcdA) gene, toxin B (tcdB) gene, and the binary toxin (cdtA/cdtB) genes. Confirmed C. difficile isolates were tested against a panel of eight antimicrobials (vancomycin, metronidazole, rifampicin, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, clindamycin, erythromycin, and ceftriaxone) using E-test strips. Results C. difficile was detected in 57 (25%) of diarrheal patients over the age of two, 56 (98.2%) of whom received antimicrobials before the diarrheal episode. Amongst the 71 confirmed isolates, 69 (97.1%) harbored at least one toxin gene. More than half of the toxigenic isolates harbored a truncated tcdA gene. All isolates were sensitive to vancomycin, while three isolates (2.1%) were resistant to metronidazole (MIC >32 mg/L). High levels of resistance were observed to rifampicin (65/71, 91.5%), erythromycin (63/71, 88.7%), ciprofloxacin (59/71, 83.1%), clindamycin (57/71, 80.3%), and ceftriaxone (36/71, 50.7.8%). Among the resistant isolates, 61 (85.9%) were multidrug-resistant. Conclusion Multidrug-resistant C. difficile strains were a significant cause of healthcare facility-onset C. difficile infections in patients with prior antimicrobial exposure in this Kenyan hospital.
Modalities and Mechanisms of Treatment for Coronavirus Disease 2019

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is spreading rapidly throughout the world. Although COVID-19 has a relatively low case severity rate compared to SARS and Middle East Respiratory syndrome it is a major public concern because of its rapid spread and devastating impact on the global economy. Scientists and clinicians are urgently trying to identify drugs to combat the virus with hundreds of clinical trials underway. Current treatments could be divided into two major part: anti-viral agents and host system modulatory agents. On one hand, anti-viral agents focus on virus infection process. Umifenovir blocks virus recognizing host and entry. Remdesivir inhibits virus replication. Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine involve preventing the whole infection process, including virus transcription and release. On the other hand, host system modulatory agents are associated with regulating the imbalanced inflammatory reaction and biased immune system. Corticosteroid is believed to be commonly used for repressing hyper-inflammation, which is one of the major pathologic mechanisms of COVID-19. Convalescent plasma and neutralizing antibodies provide essential elements for host immune system and create passive immunization. Thrombotic events are at high incidence in COVID-19 patients, thus anti-platelet and anti-coagulation are crucial, as well. Here, we summarized these current or reproposed agents to better understand the mechanisms of agents and give an update of present research situation.
Pregnancy, Birthing, and Postpartum Experiences During COVID-19 in the United States

The research aims of this project were to understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pregnancy, birthing, and postpartum experiences in the United States. Our data include responses from 34 states within the US. Findings from our analyses indicate that higher perceived social support predicted higher scores of well-being, while higher scores of perceived loneliness predicted lower scores of well-being, and higher trauma predicted lower well-being measured as satisfaction with life. Qualitative data support these findings, as well as the finding that there were various sources of stress for respondents during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum timeframe—particularly in terms of managing work/occupation obligations and childcare. Additionally, this research fills a gap in understanding infant feeding in emergencies. Respondents perceived that early release from the hospital reduced access to lactation support, and many respondents reported receiving free samples of breastmilk substitutes through a variety of sources.
A New Flavonol Glycoside from the Root of Sida rhombifolia.

: A new flavonol glycoside 1, m.p. 173-175 °C, mol. formula : C 23 H 24 0w [M+) 492 (FABMS) has been iso lated from ethanolic extract of Sida rllombifolia. Compound 1 has been characterized as 5,4' -dihydroxy-6, 7-dimethoxyflavonoi-3-0-Jl-o-glucopyranoside by chemical, spectral and elemental analysis.
Drying of Probiotics: Optimization of Formulation and Process to Enhance Storage Survival

This work describes how probiotic bacteria can be dried at low temperature in two steps, combining spray drying and vacuum drying, in order to enhance their survival during storage. A sufficient number of dried probiotics survived storage for more than 3 months at 30°C, if an appropriate combination of protein and carbohydrate was selected as carrier and storage conditions were maintained optimal. The use of soy protein and maltodextrin or skim milk and arabic gum resulted in the best survival rates of probiotics during storage. No evident difference was found between different spray dryer configurations, although a cocurrent flow was preferred.
Acrylamide Hydrogels Preparation via Free Radical Crosslinking Copolymerization: Kinetic Study and Morphological Investigation

The simultaneous gravimetric and dilatometric techniques have been used to study the kinetics of aqueous free radical crosslinking copolymerization of acrylamide (AAm) and N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) at different crosslinker ratios, and reaction temperatures. In this study, the gel properties were investigated using swelling measurements and microscopic techniques. Based on the data, it was proposed that the deviation point of the results of dilatometric technique from those of the gravimetric one can be a new criterion for gel point. The monomer conversion and the equilibrium swelling ratio of the hydrogels were measured as a function of the reaction time. Experimental data showed an inverse dependence of the critical gel point on crosslinker concentration. As the MBA/AAm ratio was decreased to 0.1 wt%, the product appearance changed. In addition, the effects of temperature on the reaction rate and critical gel point were studied. At higher temperatures, the equilibrium swelling ratio reached to its minimum value earlier. Besides, the hydrogel surface became smoother.
Highly efficient bismuth telluride doped p‐type Pb0.13Ge0.87Te for thermoelectric applications

Bi2Te3 doped p‐type Pb0.13Ge0. 87Te samples were prepared by hot pressing. We report on very high power factor values of ∼30 μW/cm K2 at 500 °C, as were determined from Seebeck coefficient and electrical resistivity measurements. From dilatometric characterization, the phase transition from the low temperature rhombohedral to the high temperature cubic NaCl structures, takes place at 373 °C. This transition is accompanied by a continuous and gradual change of the lattice parameters, as was observed by hot stage XRD, suggesting a good mechanical durability upon thermal cycling and operating in large thermal gradients.
How joint line orientation affects the amount of bone resected in mechanically aligned TKA: a retrospective clinical-radiographic correlational study

Background: Discrepancies in bone resection between the medial and lateral compartments is very common in total knee replacement (TKA) when mechanical alignment (MA) is used. The purpose of this study was to explore whether and how joint line orientation affects the gross amount of bone resected in mechanically aligned TKA.Methods: A total of 112 patients (137 knees) diagnosed with osteoarthritis (OA) were included. Bone resection simulations were conducted in the coronal view using full-length weight-bearing radiographs per the technical parameters of MA, and the feasibility of simulated osteotomy was verified via intraoperative caliper measurement. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted comparing the amount of bone resected and various parameters, including hip-knee-ankle (HKA) angle, mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), joint line congruency angle (JLCA), and medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA). Moreover, any intraoperative bone resection adjustments that were made were retrospectively collected using a medical record query system.Results: All knees in the current case series could be artificially divided into 4 subgroups: 84 varus knees (61.3%) with valgus femurs in subgroup 1, 32 varus knees (23.4%) with varus femurs in subgroup 2, 14 valgus knees (10.2%) with varus tibias in subgroup 3, and 7 valgus knees (5.1%) with valgus tibias in subgroup 4. Simulated bone resection thickness was highly consistent with intraoperative measurements. MPTA and mLDFA were positively correlated with the amount of bone resected in subgroup 1. The regression equation was: Maximum resection thickness (mm) = 0.556*mLDFA (deg.) + 0.098*MPTA (deg.) -39.74; R2=0.808. Similarly, intraoperative bone resection adjustments also showed a correlation with mLDFA in subgroup 1.Conclusions: Deformities in knee OA can be divided into 4 subgroups based on the alignment of extremities and the joint line orientation. When TKA is performed in varus knees with valgus femurs using conventional instruments and mechanical alignment techniques, the amount of bone resected in the coronal plane demonstrates a linear relationship with the patient’s mLDFA.
Students’ Views towards Sars-Cov-2 Mass Asymptomatic Testing, Social Distancing and Self-Isolation in a University Setting during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

We aimed to explore university students’ perceptions and experiences of SARS-CoV-2 mass asymptomatic testing, social distancing and self-isolation, during the COVID-19 pandemic. This qualitative study comprised of four rapid online focus groups conducted at a higher education institution in England, during high alert (tier 2) national COVID-19 restrictions. Participants were purposively sampled university students (n = 25) representing a range of gender, age, living circumstances (on/off campus), and SARS-CoV-2 testing/self-isolation experiences. Data were analysed using an inductive thematic approach. Six themes with 16 sub-themes emerged from the analysis of the qualitative data: ‘Term-time Experiences’, ‘Risk Perception and Worry’, ‘Engagement in Protective Behaviours’, ‘Openness to Testing’, ‘Barriers to Testing’ and ‘General Wellbeing’. Students described feeling safe on campus, believed most of their peers are adherent to protective behaviours and were positive towards asymptomatic testing in university settings. University communications about COVID-19 testing and social behaviours need to be timely and presented in a more inclusive way to reach groups of students who currently feel marginalised. Barriers to engagement with SARS-CoV-2 testing, social distancing and self-isolation were primarily associated with fear of the mental health impacts of self-isolation, including worry about how they will cope, high anxiety, low mood, guilt relating to impact on others and loneliness. Loneliness in students could be mitigated through increased intra-university communications and a focus on establishment of low COVID-risk social activities to help students build and enhance their social support networks. These findings are particularly pertinent in the context of mass asymptomatic testing programmes being implemented in educational settings and high numbers of students being required to self-isolate. Universities need to determine the support needs of students during self-isolation and prepare for the long-term impacts of the pandemic on student mental health and welfare support services.