Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Impact of stress‐response related transcription factor overexpression on lignocellulosic inhibitor tolerance of Saccharomyces cerevisiae environmental isolates

Numerous transcription factor genes associated with stress response are upregulated in Saccharomyces cerevisiae grown in the presence of inhibitors that result from pretreatment processes to unlock simple sugars from biomass. To determine if overexpression of transcription factors could improve inhibitor tolerance in robust S. cerevisiae environmental isolates as has been demonstrated in S. cerevisiae haploid laboratory strains, transcription factors were overexpressed at three different expression levels in three S. cerevisiae environmental isolates. Overexpression of the YAP1 transcription factor in these isolates did not lead to increased growth rate or reduced lag in growth, and in some cases was detrimental, when grown in the presence of either lignocellulosic hydrolysates or furfural and 5‐hydroxymethyl furfural individually. The expressed Yap1p localized correctly and the expression construct improved inhibitor tolerance of a laboratory strain as previously reported, indicating that lack of improvement in the environmental isolates was due to factors other than nonfunctional expression constructs or mis‐folded protein. Additional stress‐related transcription factors, MSN2, MSN4, HSF1, PDR1, and RPN4, were also overexpressed at three different expression levels and all failed to improve inhibitor tolerance. Transcription factor overexpression alone is unlikely to be a viable route toward increased inhibitor tolerance of robust environmental S. cerevisiae strains.
The Intersecting Influence of Age and Performance Stereotypes on Physical and Psychological Aspects of Stair Navigation in Older Adults

Negative age-stereotypes can have widespread effects on older adult functionality; however, no research has explored psychophysical aspects of stair navigation after exposure to stereotype priming. The present study examined self-efficacy and biomechanics related to stair navigation in older adults (N = 90). Between-groups analyses revealed positively primed older adults ascended and descended the stairs significantly faster with greater velocity in the medio-lateral plane than older adults who received a negative prime or controls (p < .017). Moreover, negatively primed older adults rated their stair self-efficacy significantly lower compared with the control and positively primed groups (p < .017). These results suggest positively primed older adults can navigate stairs with more confidence, quickness, and efficiency. With implications for interventions aimed at maintaining older adult functionality, the present study highlights the potential benefits of positive age-stereotypes, especially related to challenging physical tasks.
Novel IM‐associated protein Tim54 plays a role in the mitochondrial import of internal signal‐containing proteins in Trypanosoma brucei

The translocase of the mitochondrial inner membrane (TIM) imports most of the nucleus‐encoded proteins that are destined for the matrix, inner membrane (IM) and the intermembrane space (IMS). Trypanosoma brucei, the infectious agent for African trypanosomiasis, possesses a unique TIM complex consisting of several novel proteins in association with a relatively conserved protein TbTim17. Tandem affinity purification of the TbTim17 protein complex revealed TbTim54 as a potential component of this complex.
Disease activity in pregnancy and postpartum in women with MS who suspended rituximab and natalizumab

Objective To evaluate risks of disease reactivity during pregnancy and postpartum following rituximab (RTX) and natalizumab (NTZ) suspension in women with MS. Methods An observational cohort study of all women with MS disease onset before childbirth between 2006 and 2017. Women were identified through the Swedish MS Registry, a nationwide clinical register, with substratification into 3 groups: women who suspended RTX and NTZ within 6 months before conception and women who were not treated with any disease-modifying treatment (DMT) within 1 year of conception. The primary outcome was the annualized relapse rate (ARR) during pregnancy and 1 year postpartum. Results We identified 2,386 women with MS onset before a live birth; of these, 76 women suspended RTX and 53 suspended NTZ, and 457 were untreated within 1 year before conception. In all women, regardless of the treatment type, the ARR declined from 0.05–0.04 prepregnancy to 0.03–0.02 during pregnancy, returning to prepregnancy rates at 3–6 months (0.05) postpartum. In the suspended cohort, 76% (98/129) of women resumed a DMT after delivery. The relapse rate 1 year postpartum was significantly higher in the suspended NTZ women compared with the suspended RTX women (adjusted rate ratio [aRR] 7.65, 95% CI 2.47–23.6) and was lower in the suspended RTX women compared with the untreated women (aRR 0.21, 95% CI 0.08–0.61). Conclusion Disease reactivity during the postpartum period was lower among women with MS who suspended RTX before pregnancy, relative to those who suspended NTZ and untreated women. These findings suggest that RTX may exert long-acting effects on MS disease activity that encompass pregnancy and postpartum periods. Classification of evidence This study provides Class IV evidence that in patients with MS who were on treatment before pregnancy, RTX reduces clinical disease activity compared with NTZ in the postpartum period.
Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Carcinoma with Respect to Basal Versus Luminal Keratin Expression

Non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) consists of transcriptional subtypes that are distinguishable from those of muscle-invasive cancer. We aimed to identify genetic signatures of NMIBC related to basal (K5/6) and luminal (K20) keratin expression. Based on immunohistochemical staining, papillary high-grade NMIBC was classified into K5/6-only (K5/6High-K20Low), K20-only (K5/6Low-K20High), double-high (K5/6High-K20High), and double-low (K5/6Low-K20Low) groups (n = 4 per group). Differentially expressed genes identified between each group using RNA sequencing were subjected to functional enrichment analyses. A public dataset was used for validation. Machine learning algorithms were implemented to predict our samples against UROMOL subtypes. Transcriptional investigation demonstrated that the K20-only group was enriched in the cell cycle, proliferation, and progression gene sets, and this result was also observed in the public dataset. The K5/6-only group was closely regulated by basal-type gene sets and showed activated invasive or adhesive functions. The double-high group was enriched in cell cycle arrest, macromolecule biosynthesis, and FGFR3 signaling. The double-low group moderately expressed genes related to cell cycle and macromolecule biosynthesis. All K20-only group tumors were classified as UROMOL “class 2” by the machine learning algorithms. K5/6 and K20 expression levels indicate the transcriptional subtypes of NMIBC. The K5/6Low-K20High expression is a marker of high-risk NMIBC.
Chorismate mutase and isochorismatase, two potential effectors of the migratory nematode Hirschmanniella oryzae, increase host susceptibility by manipulating secondary metabolite content of rice

Abstract Hirschmanniella oryzae is one of the most devastating nematodes on rice, leading to substantial yield losses. Effector proteins aid the nematode during the infection process by subduing plant defence responses. In this research we characterized two potential H. oryzae effector proteins, chorismate mutase (HoCM) and isochorismatase (HoICM), and investigated their enzymatic activity and their role in plant immunity. Both HoCM and HoICM proved to be enzymatically active in complementation tests in mutant Escherichia coli strains. Infection success by the migratory nematode H. oryzae was significantly higher in transgenic rice lines constitutively expressing HoCM or HoICM. Expression of HoCM, but not HoICM, increased rice susceptibility against the sedentary nematode Meloidogyne graminicola also. Transcriptome and metabolome analyses indicated reductions in secondary metabolites in the transgenic rice plants expressing the potential nematode effectors. The results presented here demonstrate that both HoCM and HoICM suppress the host immune system and that this may be accomplished by lowering secondary metabolite levels in the plant.
Neuroinflammatory responses of microglia in central nervous system trauma

Although relatively few in number compared to astrocytes and neurons, microglia demonstrate multiple, varied neuroimmunological functions in the central nervous system during normal and pathological states. After injury to the brain or spinal cord, microglia express beneficial pro- and anti-inflammatory phenotypes at various stages of recovery. However, prolonged microglial activation following injury has been linked to impaired parenchymal healing and functional restoration. The nature and magnitude of microglial response to injury relates in part to peripheral immune cell invasion, extent of tissue damage, and the local microenvironment.
Predicting Academic Achievement with Cognitive Abilities: Cross-Sectional Study across School Education

The relationship between cognitive abilities and academic achievement across schooling from the first to the eleventh grade was analyzed. Information processing speed, visuospatial working memory, number sense, and fluid intelligence were considered predictors of general academic achievement, which was derived from grades in mathematics, language, and biology. This cross-sectional study involved 1560 pupils who were in grades 1–11 at general education schools and were aged from 6.8 to 19.1 years (50.4% were boys). Information processing speed, visuospatial working memory, and number sense were measured using the Choice Reaction Time, Corsi Block-Tapping, and Number Sense computerized tests, respectively. Fluid intelligence was measured using the paper-and-pencil version of the Standard Progressive Matrices test. Correlation analysis and structural equation modeling were carried out. It was shown that it is possible to describe the structure of the relationship between cognitive abilities and academic achievement for all levels of schooling with a single model. In this model, information processing speed is the key predictor of fluid intelligence, working memory, and number sense, which in turn contribute to individual differences in academic success. Additionally, the specificity of the relationship between individual indicators of cognitive abilities and academic achievement at each level of schooling was revealed.
The potential global distribution of the papaya mealybug, Paracoccus marginatus, a polyphagous pest

Abstract BACKGROUND The papaya mealybug, Paracoccus marginatus, is a highly polyphagous invasive pest that affects more than 200 plants, many of which are of economic importance. We modelled the potential distribution of P. marginatus using CLIMEX, a process‐oriented, climate‐based niche model. We combined this model with spatial data on irrigation and cropping patterns to increase the real‐world applicability of the model. RESULTS The resulting model agreed with known distribution points for this pest and with broad areas where P. marginatus has been reported, but for which no GPS data were available. Our model highlights the potential expansion of P. marginatus into novel areas in Central and East Africa, as well as further expansion in Central America and Asia, as these areas are highly climatically suitable, and have large expanses of suitable crop hosts. It also highlights areas, such as the central and eastern states of the USA as well as the western provinces of China, that are suitable for seasonal invasions of P. marginatus. CONCLUSION Our results offer refined resolution on areas with high potential for invasion by P. marginatus. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Demographic transformation of the physiotherapy profession in South Africa: A retrospective analysis of HPCSA registrations from 1938 to 2018.

RATIONALE, AIM AND OBJECTIVE The physiotherapy profession did not escape the effects of racially based segregatory practises. While numerous strategies and initiatives have been employed to redress the inequities of the past, the extent of demographic transformation within the physiotherapy profession in South Africa remains uncertain. Transformation is defined in this article as an intentional change aimed at addressing inequalities and the ultimate goal is for population group and gender profiles of higher education graduates to be representative of the national epidemiological profile. This paper describes the demographic patterns of Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) registered physiotherapists from 1938 to 2018. METHOD A retrospective record review of the HPCSA database from 1938 until 2018 was performed. De-identified data were extracted, coded and analyzed for descriptive purposes. Z-tests were used for analysis of proportion differences, along with P-values and 95% confidence intervals for interpretation. RESULTS In 2018, 7663 physiotherapists (6350 women and 1313 men) were registered with the HPCSA. Most registered physiotherapists (55.6%) were classified as white, followed by black (17.3%), coloured (10.3%) and Indian (9.8%). A progressive increase was found in the number of new registrations over time (1949-2018) by black (0.00%-24.38% of total new registrations), coloured (0.00%-15.47%) and Indian individuals (0.00%-10.03%), with a statistically significant increase in newly registered black therapists in the decade prior to 2018 (P = .005). Gender transformation appears to be occurring at a slower pace as the profession remains female-dominated (82.9% of registered physiotherapists in 2018). CONCLUSION There has been a steady transformation of the South African physiotherapy graduates composition regarding population categories and gender. However, it is clear that much more than selection criteria is needed to transform the profession in a way that is nationally representative, remain actively accountable for transformation and apt for local context.
Performance Evaluation of a Wearable Tattoo Electrode Suitable for High-Resolution Surface Electromyogram Recording

Objective: High-density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG) has been utilized extensively in neuromuscular research. Despite its potential advantages, limitations in electrode design have largely prevented widespread acceptance of the technology. Commercial electrodes have limited spatial fidelity, because of a lack of sharpness of the signal, and variable signal stability. We demonstrate here a novel tattoo electrode that addresses these issues. Our dry HD electrode grid exhibits remarkable deformability which ensures superior conformity with the skin surface, while faithfully recording signals during different levels of muscle contraction. Method: We fabricated a 4 cm×3 cm tattoo HD electrode grid on a stretchable electronics membrane for sEMG applications. The grid was placed on the skin overlying the biceps brachii of healthy subjects, and was used to record signals for several hours while tracking different isometric contractions. Results: The sEMG signals were recorded successfully from all 64 electrodes across the grid. These electrodes were able to faithfully record sEMG signals during repeated contractions while maintaining a stable baseline at rest. During voluntary contractions, broad EMG frequency content was preserved, with accurate reproduction of the EMG spectrum across the full signal bandwidth. Conclusion: The tattoo grid electrode can potentially be used for recording high-density sEMG from skin overlying major limb muscles. Layout programmability, good signal quality, excellent baseline stability, and easy wearability make this electrode a potentially valuable component of future HD electrode grid applications. Significance: The tattoo electrode can facilitate high fidelity recording in clinical applications such as tracking the evolution and time-course of challenging neuromuscular degenerative disorders.
Genetic mapping of resistance to fusarium wilt and seed oil traits in watermelon

Watermelon, (Citrullus lanatus var. lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai, a major horticultural crop in the world, is mainly grown for its flesh and seed consumption. Integration of marker assisted selection (MAS) in conventional breeding programs would accelerate the release of watermelon cultivars with improved nutrition and disease resistance. The current study aimed to elucidate the genetic factors associated with important seed nutrition traits and resistance to fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum (E.F. Sm.) W.C. Snyder & H.N. Han. in watermelon. Bi-parental mapping populations segregating for seed traits (seed oil percentage, kernel percentage and seed size) and resistance to fusarium wilt (races 1 and 2) were used to identify genomic regions associated with these traits on the watermelon draft genome. Several quantitative trait loci and candidate genes associated with these traits were identified and are potential targets in MAS. To utilize the molecular tools developed in the current study in MAS, a seed based genotyping method that allows for efficient selection of target traits was developed. INDEX WORDS: Citrullus lanatus, genotyping by sequencing, QTL, SNP, fatty acids, seed oil, egusi GENETIC MAPPING OF RESISTANCE TO FUSARIUM WILT AND SEED OIL TRAITS IN WATERMELON by GEOFFREY MUGAMBI MERU B.Sc., Kenyatta University, Kenya, 2008 M.Sc., Kenyatta University, Kenya, 2010 A Dissertation Submitted to the Graduate Faculty of The University of Georgia in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
Correlates of sugar-sweetened beverage intake among low-income women during the first 1000 days

Abstract Objective: To describe prenatal and postpartum consumption of water, cows’ milk, 100 % juice and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) among women enrolled in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) programme in New York City (NYC) and to identify correlates of SSB intake in this population. Design: Cross-sectional data were collected from structured questionnaires that included validated beverage frequency questionnaires with the assistance of container samples. The association of maternal and household factors and non-SSB consumption with habitual daily energetic (kJ (kcal)) intake from SSB was assessed by using multivariable median regression. Setting: WIC programme in NYC, NY. Data were collected in 2017. Participants: 388 pregnant or postpartum women (infant aged <2 years) from the NYC First 1000 Days Study. Results: Median age was 28 years (interquartile range (IQR) 24–34); 94·1 % were Hispanic/Latina, and 31·4 % were pregnant. Overall, 87·7 % of pregnant and 89·1% of postpartum women consumed SSB ≥ once weekly, contributing to a median daily energetic intake of 410 kJ (98 kcal) (IQR (113–904 kJ) 27–216) and 464 kJ (111 kcal) (IQR (163–1013 kJ) 39–242), respectively. In adjusted analyses, only consumption of 100 % juice was associated with greater median energetic intake from SSB (adjusted β for each additional ounce = 13; 95% CI 8, 31 (3·2; 95 % CI 2·0, 7·3). Conclusions: Among pregnant and postpartum women in WIC-enrolled families, interventions to reduce SSB consumption should include reduction of 100 % juice consumption as a co-target of the intervention.
HABITATS AND TREMATODE INFECTION OF BITHYNIA SIAMENSIS GONIOMPHALOS IN UDON THANI PROVINCE, THAILAND

Determination of prevalence of trematode infection in Bithynia siamensis goniomphalos, the first intermediate host of Opisthorchis viverrini, was conducted from May 2014 to December 2015. Snails were collected from seven districts, namely, Kumphawapi, Kut Chap, Mueang Udon Thani, Nong Han, Nong Wua So, Phibun Rak and Prachaksinlapakhom, in Udon Thani Province, Thailand. B. siamensis goniomphalos snails were identified morphologically and examined for trematode infection by cercarial shedding. Seven hundred and sixty-four of 34,667 snails were infected with trematodes. Nine types of O. viverrni cercariae were identified, namely, amphistome, armatae, cystocercous, furcocercous, monostome, pleurolophocercous, virgulate, and unknown. The highest prevalent type of trematode infection was virgulate (11.53%), followed by armatae (1.35%). The prevalence of O. viverrini infection in Phibun Rak, Nong Wua So, and Kut Chap District was 0.22%, 0.08%, and 0.02%, respectively. Higher percent trematode infection was in small size snails (2-6 mm) than medium size snails (6.1-10 mm) (73.54% and 26.00%, respectively). Male snails were more infected (82%) than females (17%). Snails were most commonly found in water with pH 7.7 ± 1.0, dissolved oxygen content 3.2 ± 1.7 mg/l, salt concentration 0.09 ± 0.12 ppt, conductivity 1.7 ± 0.1 mS/cm, and total dissolved solids 275.0 ± 0.2 mg/l. The highest prevalence of trematode cercariae was recorded in snails collected in reservoir dam (39.3%), followed by swamp (27.1%), canal (23.2%), rice paddy field (6.0%) and river (4.4%).
The effect of preoperative biliary stents on outcomes after pancreaticoduodenectomy

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text Abstract Background: Whether biliary drainage should be performed before surgery in jaundiced patients is a topic of debate. Published studies on the effect of preoperative biliary drainage show great discrepancies in their conclusions, and the use of different drainage methods is an important factor. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of preoperative biliary stents (PBS) on postoperative outcomes in patients following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Citation Index Expanded, and the Cochrane database were searched up to October 2019 to identify all published articles related to the topic. A meta-analysis was performed to compare postoperative outcomes in patients with and without PBS. Quality assessment and data extraction from included studies were performed by 2 independent authors. Statistical analysis was performed using RevMan 5.2 software. Results: Twenty-seven studies involving 10,445 patients were included in the analysis. Biliary drainage was performed in 5769 patients (PBS group), and the remaining 4676 patients underwent PD directly (direct surgery [DS] group). Overall mortality, severe complications, abdominal hemorrhage, bile leakage, intra-abdominal abscess, and pancreatic fistula were not significantly different between the PBS and DS groups. However, overall morbidity, delayed gastric emptying, and wound infection were significantly higher in the PBS group compared to the DS group. Subgroup analysis indicated that the adverse effect of PBS on postoperative complications was more evident with increased stent proportion. Conclusions: Preoperative biliary stenting increases overall morbidity, delayed gastric emptying, and wound infection rates in patients following PD. Thus, preoperative biliary drainage via stent placement should be avoided in patients waiting for PD.