Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Temporal Trends in the Secondary Metabolite Production of the Sponge Aplysina aerophoba

Temporal changes in the production of secondary metabolites are far from being fully understood. Our study quantified, over a two-year period, the concentrations of brominated alkaloids in the ectosome and the choanosome of Aplysina aerophoba, and examined the temporal patterns of these natural products. Based on standard curves, we quantified the concentrations of aerophobin-2, aplysinamisin-1, and isofistularin-3: three of the four major peaks obtained through chemical profiling with high-performance liquid chromatography. Our results showed a striking variation in compound abundance between the outer and inner layers of the sponge. The ectosome showed high concentrations of bromocompounds during the summer months, while the choanosome followed no pattern. Additionally, we found that, from the outer layer of the sponge, aerophobin-2 and isofistularin-3 were significantly correlated with water temperature. The present study is one of the first to document quantitative seasonal variations in individual compounds over multiple years. Further studies will clarify the role of environmental, biological, and physiological factors in determining the seasonal patterns in the concentration of brominated alkaloids.
The ubiquitous gp63-like metalloprotease from lower trypanosomatids: in the search for a function.

Plant and insect trypanosomatids constitute the "lower trypanosomatids", which have been used routinely as laboratory models for biochemical and molecular studies because they are easily cultured under axenic conditions, and they contain homologues of virulence factors from the classic human trypanosomatid pathogens. Among the molecular factors that contribute to Leishmania spp. virulence and pathogenesis, the major surface protease, alternatively called MSP, PSP, leishmanolysin, EC 3.4. 24.36 and gp63, is the most abundant surface protein of Leishmania promastigotes. A myriad of functions have been described for the gp63 from Leishmania spp. when the metacyclic promastigote is inside the mammalian host. However, less is known about the functions performed by this molecule in the invertebrate vector. Intriguingly, gp63 is predominantly expressed in the insect stage of Leishmania, and in all insect and plant trypanosomatids examined so far. The gp63 homologues found in lower trypanosomatids seem to play essential roles in the nutrition as well as in the interaction with the insect epithelial cells. Since excellent reviews were produced in the last decade regarding the roles played by proteases in the vertebrate hosts, we focused in the recent developments in our understanding of the biochemistry and cell biology of gp63-like proteins in lower trypanosomatids.
Microhardness and Microstructure Studies on Laser Surface Alloyed Aluminum Alloy with Ni-Cr

Abstract Aluminum alloy LM13 was surface alloyed with Ni and Cr of different compositions (in wt.%) at various laser powers (1 kW, 1.5 kW, and 2 kW) using CW CO2 laser. Microhardness and microstructure of alloyed regions were examined. The study shows that surface alloying is achieved when the laser power is sufficiently high (1.5 kW). Microhardness increases appreciably when the Cr concentration is increased in the Ni-Cr composition. However, in the alloyed region, large variations in microhardness are observed with depth below the surface of the material. Microstructure exhibits needle structure when Ni-concentration is high and undergoes a phase transformation when Cr-concentration is increased. XRD analysis in the alloyed samples shows formation of intermetallic compounds.
G = E: What GWAS Can Tell Us about the Environment

As our understanding of genetics has improved, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified numerous variants associated with lifestyle behaviours and health outcomes. However, what is sometimes overlooked is the possibility that genetic variants identified in GWAS of disease might reflect the effect of modifiable risk factors as well as direct genetic effects. We discuss this possibility with illustrative examples from tobacco and alcohol research, in which genetic variants that predict behavioural phenotypes have been seen in GWAS of diseases known to be causally related to these behaviours. This consideration has implications for the interpretation of GWAS findings.
THE BANANA PROJECT. IV. TWO ALIGNED STELLAR ROTATION AXES IN THE YOUNG ECCENTRIC BINARY SYSTEM EP CRUCIS: PRIMORDIAL ORIENTATION AND TIDAL ALIGNMENT

With observations of the EP Cru system, we continue our series of measurements of spin-orbit angles in eclipsing binary star systems, the BANANA project (Binaries Are Not Always Neatly Aligned). We find a close alignment between the sky projections of the rotational and orbital angular momentum vectors for both stars (βp = −1.°8 ± 1.°6 and |βs| < 17°). We also derive precise absolute dimensions and stellar ages for this system. The EP Cru and DI Her systems provide an interesting comparison: they have similar stellar types and orbital properties, but DI Her is younger and has major spin-orbit misalignments, raising the question of whether EP Cru also had a large misalignment at an earlier phase of evolution. We show that tidal dissipation is an unlikely explanation for the good alignment observed today, because realignment happens on the same timescale as spin-orbit synchronization, and the stars in EP Cru are far from synchronization (they are spinning nine times too quickly). Therefore it seems that some binaries form with aligned axes, while other superficially similar binaries are formed with misaligned axes.
The Speckled Cellist: Classification of Cello Bowing Techniques using the Orient Specks

Cello bowing techniques are classified by applying supervised machine learning methods to sensor data from two inertial sensors called the Orient specks -- one worn on the playing wrist and the other attached to the frog of the bow. Twelve different bowing techniques were considered, including variants on a single string and across multiple strings. Results are presented for the classification of these twelve techniques when played singly, and in combination during improvisational play. The results demonstrated that even when limited to two sensors, classification accuracy in excess of 95% was obtained for the individual bowing styles, with the added advantages of a minimalist approach.
Comparison of adverse reactions to whole-virion and split-virion influenza vaccines in hospital personnel.

OBJECTIVE To compare the adverse effects, particularly generalized aching, of a trivalent, inactivated whole-virion vaccine (WVV) and split-virion vaccine (SVV) for influenza in hospital personnel. DESIGN Recipient-blinded study; first-time vaccinees were randomly assigned to receive either of the vaccines from one manufacturer in the 1989-90 influenza season. Subjects were asked to complete a symptom questionnaire during the 48 hours after immunization. SETTING Annual influenza program for staff of a tertiary care children's hospital. PARTICIPANTS Volunteers were sought among approximately 2200 members of the hospital staff. Of the 358 vaccinated for the first time, 333 (93%) returned the questionnaire. RESULTS During the 48 hours after vaccination 13% of the SVV recipients reported generalized aching, as compared with 26% of the WVV recipients (p less than 0.01). Also, the SVV group reported fewer visible local reactions and more transient arm soreness, but the actual differences between the two groups were small. The occurrence of mild symptoms was equally common in the two groups (local reactions in at least 70% of cases, systemic reactions in at least 33%). In each group 1% of the subjects reported missing work because of the vaccination. CONCLUSIONS The use of SVV reduces the rate of the most objectionable of the common adverse effects of influenza vaccination. Therefore, as with children, it might be more acceptable to health care workers than the current use of WVV.
Contrast between magnetocardiography and electrocardiography for the early diagnosis of coronary artery disease in patients with acute chest pain

Accurate identification of patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is often difficult especially when an electrocardiogram (ECG) does not show typical changes of ST segment. The aim of the present study was therefore to investigate the sensitivity of magnetocardiography (MCG) and electrocardiogram for the early diagnosis of coronary artery disease in patient presenting with acute chest pain. Methods and Results: 287 patients with the suspected ACS with (144 patients) and without (143 patients) ST segment elevation were selected, The MCG recordings were obtained using a MCG system in a magnetically shielded room, and the ECG data were recorded by a ECG system. Ventricular repolarisation measurements including QRS-, R-, T-wave, and ST-T period from MCG were evaluated to determine the clinical relevance of these measurements compared with ECG. All patients underwent coronary angiogram examinations and patients with coronary artery narrowing ≥70% in at least 1-vessel were defined as CAD group. Result: The presence of significant CAD was identified with a sensitivity of 88.9% and a specificity of 73.2% on MCG, compared to 63.2% and 75.2% on ECG. Conclusion: MCG was acceptably sensitive and specific in identifying patients with ACS even in the absence of specific findings on ECG. Thus, MCG has potential clinical application for detection of ACS and should be further investigated.
Growth, Structure, Thermal Properties and Spectroscopic Characteristics of Nd3+-Doped KGdP4O12 Crystal

A single crystal of Nd3+-doped KGdP4O12 was successfully grown with the top-seeded solution growth and slow cooling (TSSG−SC) technique. It crystallizes in space group C2/c with cell parameters a = 7.812(2) Å, b = 12.307(3) Å, c = 10.474(2) Å, β = 110.84(3)° and Z = 4. The IR and Raman spectra also indicated that the phosphoric polyhedra of Nd:KGdP4O12 has a cyclic symmetry. The chemical composition of the crystal was analyzed and the distribution coefficient of Nd3+ was calculated. The crystal morphology of KGdP4O12 was identified using X-ray diffraction. The compound has good thermal stability to 920°C. Its specific heat and thermal conductivity were determined for potential applications. The spectral properties of Nd:KGdP4O12 indicates that it exhibits broad absorption and emission bands, which are attributed to low symmetry of the crystal. The broad absorption band around 798 nm has a full-width at half-maximum (FWHM) of 14.8 nm and is suitable for AlGaAs laser diode pumping. Moreover, 5 at% Nd3+-doped KGdP4O12 crystal has a long luminescence lifetime of 300 μs and a high quantum efficiency of 96%.
Role of the UL25 Protein in Herpes Simplex Virus DNA Encapsidation

ABSTRACT The herpes simplex virus protein UL25 attaches to the external vertices of herpes simplex virus type 1 capsids and is required for the stable packaging of viral DNA. To define regions of the protein important for viral replication and capsid attachment, the 580-amino-acid UL25 open reading frame was disrupted by transposon mutagenesis. The UL25 mutants were assayed for complementation of a UL25 deletion virus, and in vitro-synthesized protein was tested for binding to UL25-deficient capsids. Of the 11 mutants analyzed, 4 did not complement growth of the UL25 deletion mutant, and analysis of these and additional mutants in the capsid-binding assay demonstrated that UL25 amino acids 1 to 50 were sufficient for capsid binding. Several UL25 mutations were transferred into recombinant viruses to analyze the effect of the mutations on UL25 capsid binding and on DNA cleavage and packaging. Studies of these mutants demonstrated that amino acids 1 to 50 of UL25 are essential for its stable interaction with capsids and that the C terminus is essential for DNA packaging and the production of infectious virus through its interactions with other viral packaging or tegument proteins. Analysis of viral DNA cleavage demonstrated that in the absence of a functional UL25 protein, aberrant cleavage takes place at the unique short end of the viral genome, resulting in truncated viral genomes that are not retained in capsids. Based on these observations, we propose a model where UL25 is required for the formation of DNA-containing capsids by acting to stabilize capsids that contain full-length viral genomes.
Complex patterns in fossilized stromatolites revealed by hyperspectral imaging (400–2496 nm)

Hyperspectral imaging (400–2496 nm) was used to quantitatively map surface textures and compositional variations in stromatolites to determine whether complexity of textures could be used as evidence to support biogenicity in the absence of preserved biomarkers. Four samples of 2.72–2.4 Ga stromatolites from a variety of settings, encompassing marine and lacustrine environments, were selected for hyperspectral imaging. Images of the sawn surfaces of samples were processed to identify reflectance and mineral absorption features and quantify their intensity (as an index of mineral abundance) using automated feature extraction. Amounts of ferrous iron were quantified using a ratio of reflectance at 1650 and 1299 nm. Visible near infrared imagery (400–970 nm) did not reveal additional textural patterns to those obtained from visual inspection. Shortwave infrared imagery (1000–2496 nm), however, revealed complex laminar and convoluted patterns, including a distinctive texture of sharp peaks and broad, low troughs in one sample, similar to living tufted microbial mats. Spectral analysis revealed another sample to be composed of dolomite. Two other samples were dominated by calcite or chlorite ± illite. Large variations in amounts of ferrous iron were found, but ferric iron was exclusively located in the oxidation crust. Hyperspectral imaging revealed large differences between parts of a sample of biogenic and non‐biogenic origin. The former was characterized by calcite with varying amounts of ferrous iron, distributed in lenticular, convoluted patterns; the latter by Mg‐Fe chlorite with large amounts of aluminium silicate, distributed as fine laminar layers. All minerals identified by hyperspectral imaging were confirmed by thin section petrography and XRD analyses. Spatial statistics generated from quantitative minerals maps showed different patterns between these different parts of the sample. Thus, hyperspectral imaging was shown to be a powerful tool for detecting structures in stromatolites that could be used, together with other lines of evidence, to support biogenicity.
Oligo- and Polymetastatic Progression in Lung Metastasis(es) Patients Is Associated with Specific MicroRNAs

Rationale Strategies to stage and treat cancer rely on a presumption of either localized or widespread metastatic disease. An intermediate state of metastasis termed oligometastasis(es) characterized by limited progression has been proposed. Oligometastases are amenable to treatment by surgical resection or radiotherapy. Methods We analyzed microRNA expression patterns from lung metastasis samples of patients with ≤5 initial metastases resected with curative intent. Results Patients were stratified into subgroups based on their rate of metastatic progression. We prioritized microRNAs between patients with the highest and lowest rates of recurrence. We designated these as high rate of progression (HRP) and low rate of progression (LRP); the latter group included patients with no recurrences. The prioritized microRNAs distinguished HRP from LRP and were associated with rate of metastatic progression and survival in an independent validation dataset. Conclusion Oligo- and poly- metastasis are distinct entities at the clinical and molecular level.
Support for Political Leaders

Previous empirical research has developed stochastic electoral models for Britain, the United States Israel, and other polities. The work suggests that convergence to an electoral center (often predicted by electoral models) is a non-generic phenomenon. In an attempt to explain non-convergence, a formal model based on activist valence is presented. Since activists provide crucial resources of time and money to their chosen party, the party can use these resources to enhance its image before the electorate, thus affecting its overall valence. In the model presented here, these resources can be used to indirectly influence voters, through the media etc., so that voters become more likely to support the party. The problem for each party is that activists tend to be more extreme than the typical voter. By choosing a policy position to maximize activist support, the party will lose centrist voters. The party must therefore calculate the optimal marginal condition to maximize vote share, or some other maximand such as probability of electoral success. The theoretical result presented in this paper is a (first order) balance condition which encapsulates the logic of this trade off. It is possible to infer conditions under which there will exist a ‘Nash equilibrium’ of party positions. The theoretical model is complemented with a comparison of elections in polities with plurality electoral systems such as the United States, Canada and Britain in contrast to those with proportional systems such as Israel, Turkey and Poland. Finally, we discuss political choice in non-democratic regimes.
Changes in Macrophage Phenotype after Infection of Pigs with Haemophilus parasuis Strains with Different Levels of Virulence

ABSTRACT Haemophilus parasuis is a colonizer of healthy piglets and the etiological agent of Glässer's disease. Differences in virulence among strains of H. parasuis have been widely observed. In order to explore the host-pathogen interaction, snatch-farrowed colostrum-deprived piglets were intranasally infected with 4 strains of H. parasuis: reference virulent strain Nagasaki, reference nonvirulent strain SW114, field strain IT29205 (from a systemic lesion and virulent in a previous challenge), and field strain F9 (from the nasal cavity of a healthy piglet). At different times after infection, two animals of each group were euthanized and alveolar macrophages were analyzed for the expression of CD163, CD172a, SLA I (swine histocompatibility leukocyte antigen I), SLA II, sialoadhesin (or CD169), and CD14. At 1 day postinfection (dpi), virulent strains induced reduced expression of CD163, SLA II, and CD172a on the surfaces of the macrophages, while nonvirulent strains induced increased expression of CD163, both compared to noninfected controls. At 2 dpi, the pattern switched into a strong expression of CD172a, CD163, and sialoadhesin by the virulent strains, which was followed by a steep increase in interleukin 8 (IL-8) and soluble CD163 in serum at 3 to 4 dpi. The early increase in surface expression of CD163 induced by nonvirulent strains went along with higher levels of IL-8 in serum than those induced by virulent strains in the first 2 days of infection. Alpha interferon (IFN-α) induction was observed only in animals infected with nonvirulent strains. Overall, these results are compatible with a delay in macrophage activation by virulent strains, which may be critical for disease production.
A Prelinguistic Gestural Universal of Human Communication

Several cognitive accounts of human communication argue for a language-independent, prelinguistic basis of human communication and language. The current study provides evidence for the universality of a prelinguistic gestural basis for human communication. We used a standardized, semi-natural elicitation procedure in seven very different cultures around the world to test for the existence of preverbal pointing in infants and their caregivers. Results were that by 10-14 months of age, infants and their caregivers pointed in all cultures in the same basic situation with similar frequencies and the same proto-typical morphology of the extended index finger. Infants' pointing was best predicted by age and caregiver pointing, but not by cultural group. Further analyses revealed a strong relation between the temporal unfolding of caregivers' and infants' pointing events, uncovering a structure of early prelinguistic gestural conversation. Findings support the existence of a gestural, language-independent universal of human communication that forms a culturally shared, prelinguistic basis for diversified linguistic communication.
Variation adds to prosodic typology

Variation has not been a major concern of prosodic typologists. Frequently, it is treated as noise in the data and held to conceal what is really important about the prosodic structure of the language. Consequently, most investigations are restricted to a single standard variety and cross-speaker variation is ignored or masked by statistical processing. The results are often assumed to be representative of the language as a whole. Recent research challenges this approach. Acoustic correlates of rhythm class, for instance, show that dialects of one language can differ as much in their rhythmic structures as two different languages. One dialect can be classified as ‘stress-timed’ and the other as ‘syllable-timed’. Furthermore, considerable cross-speaker variation occurs within dialects. In this paper, I review a selection of data on prosodic variation across dialects and speakers. Then I present data on intonational variation. Examination of cross-speaker and cross-dialect variation in these data leads to new results on dialect-specific characteristics of intonation as well as to cross-dialect and cross-language generalisations.
Use of Ethidium Monoazide and PCR in Combination for Quantification of Viable and Dead Cells in Complex Samples

ABSTRACT The distinction between viable and dead cells is a major issue in many aspects of biological research. The current technologies for determining viable versus dead cells cannot readily be used for quantitative differentiation of specific cells in mixed populations. This is a serious limitation. We have solved this problem by developing a new concept with the viable/dead stain ethidium monoazide (EMA) in combination with real-time PCR (EMA-PCR). A dynamic range of approximately 4 log10 was obtained for the EMA-PCR viable/dead assay. Viable/dead differentiation is obtained by covalent binding of EMA to DNA in dead cells by photoactivation. EMA penetrates only dead cells with compromised membrane/cell wall systems. DNA covalently bound to EMA cannot be PCR amplified. Thus, only DNA from viable cells can be detected. We evaluated EMA-PCR with the major food-borne bacterium Campylobacter jejuni as an example. Traditional diagnosis of this bacterium is very difficult due to its specific growth requirements and because it may enter a state where it is viable but not cultivable. The conditions analyzed included detection in mixed and natural samples, survival in food, and survival after disinfection or antibiotic treatment. We obtained reliable viable/dead quantifications for all conditions tested. Comparison with standard fluorescence-based viable/dead techniques showed that the EMA-PCR has a broader dynamic range and enables quantification in mixed and complex samples. In conclusion, EMA-PCR offers a novel real-time PCR method for quantitative distinction between viable and dead cells with potentially very wide application.