Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Local and systemic factors impacting on visual outcome in uveitis

Uveitis is the fourth most common cause of blindness among the working age group in developed countries. The aim of this research is to examine the influence of diabetes mellitus, cataract surgery, and retinal vasculitis on the visual outcome and prognosis of eyes with uveitis. The studied cohort included 1169 patients with uveitis attending Moorfields Eye Hospital between January 2012 and December 2013. The first study divided uveitis cases with diabetes into two groups; the first group included 99 eyes with diabetes diagnosed prior to uveitis. The second group included 96 eyes with uveitis later diagnosed with diabetes. Within the first group, 28.2% had vision loss mainly from maculopathy with the risk of vision loss 4.6 times higher when compared to the control group of non-diabetic uveitis group. The diagnosis of diabetes in the second group was associated with a drop in the mean vision over the year post diagnosis. The mean dose of corticosteroid was lower post diagnosis (15 mg versus 10 mg, p=0.03), and relapses were significantly less often treated with systemic corticosteroid alone (70.2% vs. 55.6% of the relapses, p=0.003). The second study included 236 eyes with retinal vasculitis (121 ischaemic, 115 non- ischaemic) which was compared to non-vasculitis control group (1022 eyes). Macular ischaemia increased the risk of vision loss in vasculitis by 4.4 times. Retinal vasculitis had twice the risk of macular oedema compared to non-vasculitis. Macular oedema and ischaemia increased risk of vision loss in ischaemic vasculitis while corticosteroids reduce the risk by 30%. Retinal ischaemia involving ≥ 2 quadrants was associated with increased risk of NV formation. The third study included 228 uveitic eyes undergone cataract surgery and was compared to a control group of 300 phakic eyes with uveitis. The vision continued to improve from the baseline first postoperative week. However, risk of vision loss and CMO were twice more in the pseudophakic group compared to the control. The rate of uveitis relapse and rate of using high dose of corticosteroids was significantly lower postoperatively versus preoperatively.
Dangerous exercise. The detrimental effects of exertion and orthostatic stress in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome

Looking at the evidence so far, this latter observations seems also to be applicable to Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Although ME and CFS are often declared to be synonyms [4], the diagnostic criteria define two distinct clinical entities. ME is primarily defined by muscle weakness (and myalgia) after a minor exertion lasting for days and characteristic neurological features, while CFS is primarily defined by (unexplained, incapacitating) chronic fatigue [4]. Although ME and CFS are to be considered to be two distinct, partially overlapping, diagnostic labels [4], the Institute of Medicine [5] confirmed that post-exertional “malaise”, defined as a prolonged aggravation of typical symptoms (e.g. “brain fog”/ cognitive deficits and muscle and joint pain) is the hallmark feature of “ME/CFS”.
Lecturers' Perceptions on the Effectiveness of In-Service Training Programs at Selected Public Sector Organisations in Namibia

The training programs, irrespective of their scopes and time frames, aims to enrich the skills, knowledge level and attitude of participants so that they eventually enhance organizational performance . The training institution investigated in this study did not have a training evaluation policy at its inception. Hence, the aim of this paper is to report on the lecturers’ views on the effectiveness of in-service training at one of the public sector organization in Namibia. The study adopted a quantitative approach and a total of 32 academic staff participated in it. The results indicate that the majority of respondents are of the view that the institution does not conduct training need assessments. They also expressed that the in-service training programs provided by the institution do not empower them to become better teachers. It is thus recommended that the institution provides in-service training programs that specifically improve lecturers’ pedagogical skills in this regard.
Goat Digestion Leads to Low Survival and Viability of Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) Seeds

ABSTRACT The use of goat browsing for invasive plant management is growing in the United States, but many questions remain about the efficacy of goat browsing for invasive plant control. One common concern of land managers and other stakeholders is whether goats can spread invasive plants through endozoochory (seed dispersal via ingestion and excretion in feces). We evaluated this possibility using common buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), an invasive shrub for which goats are often employed as a control method. Goats were fed buckthorn berries, and their feces were collected and examined at 24 hr, 48 hr, and 72 hr post-ingestion for intact seeds that survived gut passage. A low proportion of buckthorn seeds (2%) made it through the goat digestive system intact. Of these, only 11% remained viable, compared to 63% viability of control seeds. We conclude that consumption of buckthorn fruits by goats effectively destroys seeds, indicating low risk of dispersal via gut passage. To put these results in context, and provide more guidance for land managers, we additionally reviewed literature investigating seed recovery following ingestion by goats. Based on a synthetic analysis across 28 plant species, we found that seeds >4 mm long were unlikely to be recovered from feces intact, while smaller seeds posed higher dispersal risk.
Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Impairs Amyloid Beta Degradation in a Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Dependent Manner

Despite the extensive use of hormonal methods as either contraception or menopausal hormone therapy (HT), there is very little known about the potential effects of these compounds on the cellular processes of the brain. Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (MPA) is a progestogen used globally in the hormonal contraceptive, Depo Provera, by women in their reproductive prime and is a major compound found in HT formulations used by menopausal women. MPA promotes changes in the circulating levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), such as MMP-9, in the endometrium, yet limited literature studying the effects of MPA on neurons and astroglia cells has been conducted. Additionally, the dysregulation of MMPs has been implicated in the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), where inhibiting the secretion of MMP-9 from astroglia reduces the proteolytic degradation of amyloid-beta. Thus, we hypothesize that exposure to MPA disrupts proteolytic degradation of amyloid-beta through the downregulation of MMP-9 expression and subsequent secretion. To assess the effect of progestins on MMP-9 and amyloid-beta, in vitro, C6 rat glial cells were exposed to MPA for 48 h and then the enzymatic, secretory, and amyloid-beta degrading capacity of MMP-9 was assessed from the conditioned culture medium. We found that MPA treatment inhibited transcription of MMP-9, which resulted in a subsequent decrease in the production and secretion of MMP-9 protein, in part through the glucocorticoid receptor. Additionally, we investigated the consequences of amyloid beta-degrading activity and found that MPA treatment decreased proteolytic degradation of amyloid-beta. Our results suggest MPA suppresses amyloid-beta degradation in an MMP-9-dependent manner, in vitro, and potentially compromises the clearance of amyloid-beta in vivo.
Spadin Selectively Antagonizes Arachidonic Acid Activation of TREK-1 Channels

TREK-1 channel activity is a critical regulator of neuronal, cardiac, and smooth muscle physiology and pathology. The antidepressant peptide, spadin, has been proposed to be a TREK-1-specific blocker. Here we sought to examine the mechanism of action underlying spadin inhibition of TREK-1 channels. Heterologous expression in Xenopus laevis oocytes and electrophysiological analysis using two-electrode voltage clamp in standard bath solutions was used to characterize the pharmacological profile of wild-type and mutant murine TREK-1 and TREK-2 channels using previously established human K2P activators; arachidonic acid (AA), cis-4,7,10,13,16,19-docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), BL-1249, and cinnamyl-3,4-dihydroxy-α-cyanocinnamate (CDC) and inhibitors; spadin and barium (Ba2+). Mouse TREK-1 and TREK-2 channel currents were both significantly increased by AA, BL-1249, and CDC, similar to their human homologs. Under basal conditions, both TREK-1 and TREK-2 currents were insensitive to application of spadin, but could be blocked by Ba2+. Spadin did not significantly inhibit either TREK-1 or TREK-2 currents either chemically activated by AA, BL-1249, or CDC, or structurally activated via a gating mutation. However, pre-exposure to spadin significantly perturbed the subsequent activation of TREK-1 currents by AA, but not TREK-2. Furthermore, spadin was unable to prevent activation of TREK-1 by BL-1249, CDC, or the related bioactive lipid, DHA. Spadin specifically antagonizes the activation of TREK-1 channels by AA, likely via an allosteric mechanism. Lack of intrinsic activity may explain the absence of clinical side effects during antidepressant therapy.
Exploring Adaptive Behavior of Non-linear Hexagonal Frameworks

Non-linear structural responses offer a rich design space that can be integrated into the development of novel (meta)-materials to enable transformative capabilities. By exploiting robust, repeatable, non-linear elasticity the (meta)-material's performance can be tailored to significantly exceed what has been demonstrated through traditional linear design paradigms. Embracing geometric non-linearity offers the designer the potential for truly bespoke large-range elastic behavior. Herein we explore the behavior of bistable elements that can be arranged into a space-filling triangular lattice, constructed in a hierarchical manner. We develop an analysis of the system that can be readily extended to more complex hierarchies, such as the hexagonal arrangement considered herein, whilst retaining physical insight. Specifically, we present the geometric restrictions of lattice elements that govern the existence of stable stress-free states and subsequently characterize the transitions between such states by searching for the minimum energetic transition pathway. Through our approach, we explore how hierarchical multi-stable systems can be analyzed, thus contributing to the development of truly bespoke adaptive (meta-)materials.
Two-Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenides: Synthesis, Biomedical Applications and Biosafety Evaluation

Recently, two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDCs) have drawn certain attentions in many fields. The unique and diversified electronic structure and ultrathin sheet structure of 2D TMDCs offer opportunities for moving ahead of other 2D nanomaterials such as graphene and expanding the wide application of inorganic 2D nanomaterials in many fields. For a better understanding of 2D TMDCs, one needs to know methods for their synthesis and modification, as well as their potential applications and possible biological toxicity. Herein, we summarized the recent research progress of 2D TMDCs with particular focus on their biomedical applications and potential health risks. Firstly, two kinds of synthesis methods of 2D TMDCs, top-down and bottom-up, and methods for their surface functionalization are reviewed. Secondly, the applications of 2D TMDCs in the field of biomedicine, including drug loading, photothermal therapy, biological imaging and biosensor were summarized. After that, we presented the existing researches on biosafety evaluation of 2D TMDCs. At last, we discussed major research gap in current researches and challenges and coping strategies in future studies.
Imaging the Cell Morphological Response to 3D Topography and Curvature in Engineered Intestinal Tissues

While conventional cell culture methodologies have relied on flat, two-dimensional cell monolayers, three-dimensional engineered tissues are becoming increasingly popular. Often, engineered tissues can mimic the complex architecture of native tissues, leading to advancements in reproducing physiological functional properties. In particular, engineered intestinal tissues often use hydrogels to mimic villi structures. These finger-like protrusions of a few hundred microns in height have a well-defined topography and curvature. Here, we examined the cell morphological response to these villus-like microstructures at single-cell resolution using a novel embedding method that allows for the histological processing of these delicate hydrogel structures. We demonstrated that by using photopolymerisable poly(ethylene) glycol as an embedding medium, the villus-like microstructures were successfully preserved after sectioning with vibratome or cryotome. Moreover, high-resolution imaging of these sections revealed that cell morphology, nuclei orientation, and the expression of epithelial polarization markers were spatially encoded along the vertical axis of the villus-like microstructures and that this cell morphological response was dramatically affected by the substrate curvature. These findings, which are in good agreement with the data reported for in vivo experiments on the native tissue, are likely to be the origin of more physiologically relevant barrier properties of engineered intestinal tissues when compared with standard monolayer cultures. By showcasing this example, we anticipate that the novel histological embedding procedure will have a positive impact on the study of epithelial cell behavior on three-dimensional substrates in both physiological and pathological situations.
A Multiplex PCR Detection Assay for the Identification of Clinically Relevant Anaplasma Species in Field Blood Samples

The genus Anaplasma (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae), which includes the species Anaplasma capra, Anaplasma bovis, Anaplasma ovis, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum, is responsible for a wide variety of infections in both human and veterinary health worldwide. Multiple infections with these four Anaplasma pathogens have been reported in many cases. We introduce a novel multiplex PCR for the simultaneous detection of A. capra, A. bovis, A. ovis, and A. phagocytophilum, based on species-specific primers against the groEL (A. capra and A. bovis), msp4 (A. ovis), and 16S rRNA (A. phagocytophilum) genes. To verify the specificity of the PCR reactions, we evaluated four sets of primers to analyze samples containing different blood pathogens. The sensitivity of the multiplex PCR was evaluated by amplifying 10-fold dilutions of total genomic DNA extracted from sheep blood infected with A. capra, A. bovis, A. ovis, or A. phagocytophilum. The reproducibility of the assay was evaluated by testing 10-fold dilutions of total genomic DNA extracted from sheep blood infected with these pathogens from 100 to 10–3 ng/μL per reaction in triplicate on three different days. A total of 175 field blood DNA samples were used to evaluate the reproducibility of multiplex PCR compared with the simplex PCRs. PCR primers used in this study were confirmed to be 100% species-specific using blood pathogens previously identified by other methods. The lower limit of detection of the multiplex PCR with good repeatability enabled the detection of A. capra, A. bovis, A. ovis and A. phagocytophilum at concentrations of 3 × 10–5, 5 × 10–7, 2 × 10–5, and 7 × 10–7 ng/μL, respectively. There was no significant difference between conventional and multiplex PCR protocols used to detect the four Anaplasma species (P > 0.05). The results of the multiplex PCR revealed that the A. capra groEL gene, the A. bovis groEL gene, the A. ovis msp4 gene, and the A. phagocytophilum 16S rRNA gene were reliable target genes for species identification in clinical isolates, being specific for each of the four target Anaplasma species. Our study provides an effective, sensitive, specific, and accurate tool for the rapid differential clinical diagnosis and epidemiological surveillance of Anaplasma pathogens in sheep and goats.
Anti-MRSA Activity of Actinomycin X2 and Collismycin A Produced by Streptomyces globisporus WA5-2-37 From the Intestinal Tract of American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana)

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is recognized as one of the serious pathogen that causes acquired infections worldwide. Its emerging need to discover novel, safe and potent anti-MRSA drugs. In this study, primary screening by anti-MRSA activity assay found one strain WA5-2-37 isolated from the intestinal tract of Periplaneta americana, exhibited great activity against MRSA ATCC 43300. The strain WA5-2-37 produced actinomycin X2 and collismycin A which showed strong inhibition of MRSA with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 0.25 and 8 μg/mL. The structures of the pure compounds were elucidated by analysis of mass spectrometry (MS), 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The strain WA5-2-37 was considered as Streptomyces globisporus on the basis of morphological characteristics, genotypic data, and phylogenetic analysis. This is the first reported naturally occurring strain of S. globisporus isolated from the intestinal tract of P. americana, whereas it has almost been found from plants, marine, and soil previously. Moreover, S. globisporus has not been reported to produce any anti-MRSA substances previously, such as actinomycin X2 and collismycin A. In conclusion, the insect-derived strain of S. globisporus WA5-2-37 was considered of great potential as a new strain of producing actinomycin X2, collismycin A or other anti-MRSA compounds.
The Determinants of Private Tutoring Participation for Mathematics in China: Focusing on the Role of Student Metacognition

Participation in private tutoring has been a global educational phenomenon and is especially prevalent in China. The present study conducted a student-report questionnaire and collected school reports of mathematical achievement to track a year of the longitudinal variation of private tutoring and obtained an analysis of the impact of metacognition on private tutoring participation and its moderating effects between environment-related and initial indicators and mathematical private tutoring participation. The empirical results of this study showed that metacognitive level for learning process monitoring, family economic condition, and mathematics achievement could impact the decision to participate in private tutoring. The results also showed that family economic condition could moderate the effect of metacognitive level for learning process monitoring on the decision to participate in private tutoring. Practical implications for educational competent department and the schoolteachers were discussed.
D2-Like Receptors Mediate Dopamine-Inhibited Insulin Secretion via Ion Channels in Rat Pancreatic β-Cells

Dopamine (DA) has a vital role in the central nervous system and also modulates lipid and glucose metabolism. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of dopamine on insulin secretion and the underlying mechanisms in rat pancreatic β-cells. Data from the radioimmunoassay indicated that dopamine inhibited insulin secretion in a glucose- and dose-dependent manner. This inhibitory effect of dopamine was mediated mainly by D2-like receptors, but not D1-like receptors. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings showed that dopamine decreased voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel currents, which could be reversed by inhibition of the D2-like receptor. Dopamine increased voltage-dependent potassium (KV) channel currents and shortened action potential duration, which was antagonized by inhibition of D2-like receptors. Further experiments showed that D2-like receptor activation by quinpirole increased KV channel currents. In addition, using calcium imaging techniques, we found that dopamine reduced intracellular Ca2+ concentration, which was also reversed by D2-like receptor antagonists. Similarly, quinpirole was found to decrease intracellular Ca2+ levels. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that dopamine inhibits insulin secretion mainly by acting on D2-like receptors, inhibiting Ca2+ channels, and activating Kv channels. This process results in shortened action potential duration and decreased intracellular Ca2+ levels in β-cells. This work offers new insights into a glucose-dependent mechanism whereby dopamine regulates insulin secretion.
Nanoformulations of Herbal Extracts in Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disorders

Nanotechnology is one of the methods that influenced human life in different ways and is a substantial approach that assists to overcome the multiple limitations of various diseases, particularly neurodegenerative disorders (NDs). Diverse nanostructures such as polymer nanoparticles, lipid nanoparticles, nanoliposomes, nano-micelles, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs); as well as different vehicle systems including poly lactic-co-glycolic acid, lactoferrin, and polybutylcyanoacrylate could significantly increase the effectiveness, reduce the side effects, enhance the stability, and improve the pharmacokinetics of many drugs. NDs belong to a group of annoying and debilitating diseases that involve millions of people worldwide. Previous studies revealed that several nanoformulations from a number of natural products such as curcumin (Cur), quercetin (QC), resveratrol (RSV), piperine (PIP), Ginkgo biloba, and Nigella sativa significantly improved the condition of patients diagnosed with NDs. Drug delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) has several limitations, in which the blood brain barrier (BBB) is the main drawback for treatment of NDs. This review discusses the effects of herbal-based nanoformulations, their advantages and disadvantages, to manage NDs. In summary, we conclude that herbal-based nano systems have promising proficiency in treatment of NDs, either alone or in combination with other drugs.
Attitudes, Sentiments, and Concerns About Inclusive Education of Teachers and Teaching Students in Spain

The Sentiments, Attitudes, and Concerns About Inclusive Education Revised scale was developed to close the existing gap in measuring perceptions of inclusive education in the educative context. It has been widely used in other cultures but not in Spain. Our objective has been to analyze the psychometric properties in the Spanish sample by studying their relationship with empathy and social dominance variables, finally taking into account sociodemographic variables to observe if there are differences. The scale was applied to a total of 647 subjects: 323 university-students (18–45 years) and 324 in-service teachers (35–58 years). The scale showed psychometric properties suitable for the general group, the students, and the teachers. Likewise, the female students showed a more positive attitude toward inclusion, and these attitudes were associated with empathy and social dominance. This version of the Sentiments, Attitudes, and Concerns about Inclusive Education Revised is a useful tool for measuring the inclusive attitudes of undergraduate education students and in-service teachers.