Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effects of light spectrum on morpho-physiological traits of grafted tomato seedlings

It is already known that there are many factors responsible for the successful grafting process in plants, including light intensity. However, the influence of the spectrum of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on this process has almost never been tested. During the pre-grafting process tomato seedlings grew for 30 days under 100 μmol m-2 s-1 of mixed LEDs (red 70%+ blue 30%). During the post-grafting period, seedlings grew for 20 days under the same light intensity but the lightening source was either red LED, mixed LEDs (red 70% + blue 30%), blue LED or white fluorescent lamps. This was done to determine which light source(s) could better improve seedling quality and increase grafting success. Our results showed that application of red and blue light mixture (R7:B3) caused significant increase in total leaf area, dry weight (total, shoot and root), total chlorophyll/carotenoid ratio, soluble protein and sugar content. Moreover, this light treatment maintained better photosynthetic performance i.e. more effective quantum yield of PSII photochemistry Y(II), better photochemical quenching (qP), and higher electron transport rate (ETR). This can be partially explained by the observed upregulation of gene expression levels of PsaA and PsbA and the parallel protein expression levels. This in turn could lead to better functioning of the photosynthetic apparatus of tomato seedlings and then to faster production of photoassimilate ready to be translocated to various tissues and organs, including those most in need, i.e., involved in the formation of the graft union.
FACT interacts with Set3 HDAC and fine-tunes GAL1 transcription in response to environmental stimulation

Abstract The histone chaperone facilitates chromatin transactions (FACT) functions in various DNA transactions. How FACT performs these multiple functions remains largely unknown. Here, we found, for the first time, that the N-terminal domain of its Spt16 subunit interacts with the Set3 histone deacetylase complex (Set3C) and that FACT and Set3C function in the same pathway to regulate gene expression in some settings. We observed that Spt16-G132D mutant proteins show defects in binding to Set3C but not other reported FACT interactors. At the permissive temperature, induction of the GAL1 and GAL10 genes is reduced in both spt16-G132D and set3Δ cells, whereas transient upregulation of GAL10 noncoding RNA (ncRNA), which is transcribed from the 3′ end of the GAL10 gene, is elevated. Mutations that inhibit GAL10 ncRNA transcription reverse the GAL1 and GAL10 induction defects in spt16-G132D and set3Δ mutant cells. Mechanistically, set3Δ and FACT (spt16-G132D) mutants show reduced histone acetylation and increased nucleosome occupancy at the GAL1 promoter under inducing conditions and inhibition of GAL10 ncRNA transcription also partially reverses these chromatin changes. These results indicate that FACT interacts with Set3C, which in turn prevents uncontrolled GAL10 ncRNA expression and fine-tunes the expression of GAL genes upon a change in carbon source.
Naturalistic development of trait mindfulness: A longitudinal examination of victimization and supportive relationships in early adolescence

Scholars have only just begun to examine elements of young adolescents’ social ecologies that explain naturalistic variation in trait mindfulness and its development over time. We argue that trait mindfulness develops as a function of chronically encountered ecologies that are likely to foster or thwart the repeated enactment of mindful states over time. Using data from 4,593 fourth and seventh grade students (50% female; MageG4 = 9.02; 71% English first language) from 32 public school districts in British Columbia (BC), Canada, we examined links from peer belonging, connectedness with adults at home, and peer victimization to mindfulness over time. Variable-centered analyses indicated that young adolescents with lower victimization in fourth grade reported higher mindfulness in seventh grade, and that cross-sectionally within seventh grade victimization, peer belonging, and connectedness with adults at home were each associated with mindfulness. Contrary to our hypothesis, connectedness with adults at home moderated the longitudinal association between victimization and mindfulness such that the negative association was stronger among young adolescents with high (vs. low) levels of connectedness with adults at home. Person-centered analysis of the fourth graders’ data confirmed our variable-centered findings, yielding four latent classes of social ecology whose mindfulness levels in seventh grade largely tracked with their victimization levels (from highest to lowest mindfulness): (1) flourishing relationships, (2) unvictimized but weak relationships with adults, (3) moderately victimized but strong relationships, and (4) victimized but strong relationships. Overall, our findings contribute to a growing body of evidence indicating that trait mindfulness may develop as a function of ecologically normative experiences in young adolescents’ everyday lives.
Immunoglobulin A–specific deficiency induces spontaneous inflammation specifically in the ileum

Objective Although immunoglobulin A (IgA) is abundantly expressed in the gut and known to be an important component of mucosal barriers against luminal pathogens, its precise function remains unclear. Therefore, we tried to elucidate the effect of IgA on gut homeostasis maintenance and its mechanism. Design We generated various IgA mutant mouse lines using the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system. Then, we evaluated the effect on the small intestinal homeostasis, pathology, intestinal microbiota, cytokine production, and immune cell activation using intravital imaging. Results We obtained two lines, with one that contained a <50 base pair deletion in the cytoplasmic region of the IgA allele (IgA tail-mutant; IgAtm/tm) and the other that lacked the most constant region of the IgH α chain, which resulted in the deficiency of IgA production (IgA−/−). IgA−/− exhibited spontaneous inflammation in the ileum but not the other parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Associated with this, there were significantly increased lamina propria CD4+ T cells, elevated productions of IFN-γ and IL-17, increased ileal segmented filamentous bacteria and skewed intestinal microflora composition. Intravital imaging using Ca2+ biosensor showed that IgA−/− had elevated Ca2+ signalling in Peyer’s patch B cells. On the other hand, IgAtm/tm seemed to be normal, suggesting that the IgA cytoplasmic tail is dispensable for the prevention of the intestinal disorder. Conclusion IgA plays an important role in the mucosal homeostasis associated with the regulation of intestinal microbiota and protection against mucosal inflammation especially in the ileum.
Burkholderia from Fungus Gardens of Fungus-Growing Ants Produces Antifungals That Inhibit the Specialized Parasite Escovopsis

Many organisms partner with microbes to defend themselves against parasites and pathogens. Fungus-growing ants must protect Leucoagaricus spp. , the fungal mutualist that provides sustenance for the ants, from a specialized fungal parasite, Escovopsis spp. ABSTRACT Within animal-associated microbiomes, the functional roles of specific microbial taxa are often uncharacterized. Here, we use the fungus-growing ant system, a model for microbial symbiosis, to determine the potential defensive roles of key bacterial taxa present in the ants’ fungus gardens. Fungus gardens serve as an external digestive system for the ants, with mutualistic fungi in the genus Leucoagaricus converting the plant substrate into energy for the ants. The fungus garden is host to specialized parasitic fungi in the genus Escovopsis. Here, we examine the potential role of Burkholderia spp. that occur within ant fungus gardens in inhibiting Escovopsis. We isolated members of the bacterial genera Burkholderia and Paraburkholderia from 50% of the 52 colonies sampled, indicating that members of the family Burkholderiaceae are common inhabitants in the fungus gardens of a diverse range of fungus-growing ant genera. Using antimicrobial inhibition bioassays, we found that 28 out of 32 isolates inhibited at least one Escovopsis strain with a zone of inhibition greater than 1 cm. Genomic assessment of fungus garden-associated Burkholderiaceae indicated that isolates with strong inhibition all belonged to the genus Burkholderia and contained biosynthetic gene clusters that encoded the production of two antifungals: burkholdine1213 and pyrrolnitrin. Organic extracts of cultured isolates confirmed that these compounds are responsible for antifungal activities that inhibit Escovopsis but, at equivalent concentrations, not Leucoagaricus spp. Overall, these new findings, combined with previous evidence, suggest that members of the fungus garden microbiome play an important role in maintaining the health and function of fungus-growing ant colonies. IMPORTANCE Many organisms partner with microbes to defend themselves against parasites and pathogens. Fungus-growing ants must protect Leucoagaricus spp. , the fungal mutualist that provides sustenance for the ants, from a specialized fungal parasite, Escovopsis. The ants take multiple approaches, including weeding their fungus gardens to remove Escovopsis spores, as well as harboring Pseudonocardia spp. , bacteria that produce antifungals that inhibit Escovopsis. In addition, a genus of bacteria commonly found in fungus gardens, Burkholderia, is known to produce secondary metabolites that inhibit Escovopsis spp. In this study, we isolated Burkholderia spp. from fungus-growing ants, assessed the isolates’ ability to inhibit Escovopsis spp. , and identified two compounds responsible for inhibition. Our findings suggest that Burkholderia spp. are often found in fungus gardens, adding another possible mechanism within the fungus-growing ant system to suppress the growth of the specialized parasite Escovopsis.
Academic application of Good Cell Culture Practice for induced pluripotent stem cells.

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) are a promising tool for replacing animal-based experiments. To warrant data reproducibility, quality-controlled research material is recommended. While the need for global harmonization of quality standards for stem cell banking centers, commercial providers, pre-clinical and clinical use of the cells is well documented, up to date there are no recommendations available for quality control of hiPSC in an academic research environment. To fill this gap, we here give an example of a quality-controlled, two-tiered-banking process producing a fully characterized Master Cell Bank (MCB) and partially characterized respective Working Cell Banks (WCB). Characterization includes study of morphology, mycoplasma-contamination, cell line identity, karyotype stability, cell antigen expression and viability, gene expression, pluripotency, and post-thaw recovery. Costs of these procedures are calculated. Here we present the results of the proposed testing panel of two hiPSC MCBs and show that both MCBs fulfil the defined specifications regarding the above-mentioned characterization assays during and upon banking. In conclusion, we propose a panel of eight assays, which are practical and useful for an academic research laboratory working with hiPSCs. Meeting these proposed specifications ensures the quality of pluripotent stem cells throughout diverse experiments at employing only moderate expenses.
Mechanical and in vitro biological properties of uniform and graded Cobalt‐chrome lattice structures in orthopedic implants

Abstract Human bones are biological examples of functionally graded lattice capable to withstand large in vivo loading and allowing optimal stress distribution. Disruption of bone integrity may require biocompatible implants capable to restore the original bone structure and properties. This study aimed at comparing mechanical properties and biological behavior in vitro of uniform (POR‐FIX) and graded (POR‐VAR) Cobalt‐chrome alloy lattice structures manufactured via Selective Laser Melting. In compression, the POR‐VAR equivalent maximum stress was about 2.5 times lower than that of the POR‐FIX. According to the DIC analysis, the graded lattice structures showed a stratified deformation associated to unit cells variation. At each timepoint, osteoblast cells were observed to colonize the surface and the first layer of both scaffolds. Cell activity was always significantly higher in the POR‐VAR (p < 0.0005). In terms of gene expression, the OPG/RANKL ratio increased significantly over time (p < 0.0005) whereas IL1β and COX2 significantly decreased (7 day vs 1 day; p < 0.0005) in both scaffolds. Both uniform‐ and graded‐porosity scaffolds provided a suitable environment for osteoblasts colonization and proliferation, but graded structures seem to represent a better solution to improve stress distribution between implant and bone of orthopedic implants.
An exploration of goal-setting practices in Queensland rehabilitation services

Abstract Background Goals are vital in rehabilitation; however, how goal-setting occurs varies widely in clinical practice. This study aims to review goal-setting practices across the rehabilitation continuum within varied case mix services in Queensland, Australia. Method A descriptive multisite qualitative case study with medical record audits and interviews of adult rehabilitation clients was used to evaluate four propositions across three inpatient and two community rehabilitation services. The propositions evaluated the process in which goal-setting occurs, action planning and review of goals, as well as the type, specificity and client-centeredness of goals set. Results Goals (n = 1120) were often poorly defined, focussed on short term physical functioning and were predominantly set by individual disciplines with the client rather than using an interdisciplinary approach. Clients were not consistently given action plans to pursue goals (n = 59, 18%) and the review of goal progress (n = 60, 18%) was limited. Few clients reported receiving copies of their rehabilitation goals (n = 16, 25%). Conclusion Goal-setting in rehabilitation should be specific, meaningful and include the client in action planning, feedback and review. However, goal-setting in rehabilitation is often multidisciplinary and unstructured. Implications for rehabilitation Best-practice rehabilitation team goal-negotiation and goal-setting should include a common goal focus and incorporate components of staff and client action planning, coping planning, feedback and review. Rehabilitation clients prefer shared-decision making approaches to setting meaningful and personalised goals, however, require time and support to engage in the goal-setting and negotiation process. Rehabilitation clinicians need training and support to improve their goal negotiation and goal writing skills to create specific, understandable and meaningful goals with rehabilitation clients.
Is the southern crab Halicarcinus planatus (Fabricius, 1775) the next invader of Antarctica?

The potential for biological colonization of Antarctic shores is an increasingly important topic in the context of anthropogenic warming. Successful Antarctic invasions to date have been recorded exclusively from terrestrial habitats. While non‐native marine species such as crabs, mussels and tunicates have already been reported from Antarctic coasts, none have as yet established there. Among the potential marine invaders of Antarctic shallow waters is Halicarcinus planatus (Fabricius, 1775), a crab with a circum‐Subantarctic distribution and substantial larval dispersal capacity. An ovigerous female of this species was found in shallow waters of Deception Island, South Shetland Islands in 2010. A combination of physiological experiments and ecological modelling was used to assess the potential niche of H. planatus and estimate its future southward boundaries under climate change scenarios. We show that H. planatus has a minimum thermal limit of 1°C, and that its current distribution (assessed by sampling and niche modelling) is physiologically restricted to the Subantarctic region. While this species is presently unable to survive in Antarctica, future warming under both ‘strong mitigation’ and ‘no mitigation’ greenhouse gas emission scenarios will favour its niche expansion to the Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) by 2100. Future human activity also has potential to increase the probability of anthropogenic translocation of this species into Antarctic ecosystems.
“Anemia and Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer Patients”

Abstract We analyzed the effect of anemia on tumor response of patients with primary invasive breast cancer (BC) receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). The patient collective was very homogenous; finally, 74 BC patients with identical medication and duration of NACT were enrolled. After completion of NACT, 49 patients (66.2%) had a post-NACT Hb level <12 g/dl. In the anemic group, we found a tendency of lower median tumor response compared to nonanemic patients at this time (15 versus 17 mm, retrospectively, p = 0.18). Age at diagnosis significantly correlated with the difference of Hb [before initiation – after completion of NACT] (correlation coefficient = 0.40, p < 0.001).
Comparative international incidence of Ewing sarcoma 1988 to 2012

Ewing sarcoma (ES) is the second most common primary bone tumor in children and adolescents. There are few known epidemiological or genetic risk factors for ES. Numerous reports describe incidence rates and trends within the United States, but international comparisons are sparse. We used the Cancer Incidence in Five Continents (CI5) data to estimate age standardized incidence rates (ASRs; cases per million) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs), male‐to‐female incidence rate ratios (IRRs; 95% CI), and the average annual percent change in incidence (AAPC; 95% CI) for ES by geographic region for children and adults aged 0 to 49 years. We also estimated the ASR for each country or country subpopulation among the 10‐ to 19‐year‐old age range; capturing the peak incidence of ES. In total, 15 874 ES cases ages 0 to 49 were reported in the CI5 series between 1988 and 2012. AAPC estimates varied by age group and geographic region. Most of the statistically significant AAPCs showed an increased incidence over time; the only statistically significant decreases in incidence were observed among 20‐ to 29‐year‐olds and 30‐ to 39‐year‐olds in Southern Asia at −1.93% and −1.67%. When categorized by predominant ancestry, we observed countries and subpopulations with predominately African, East Asian, and Southeast Asian ancestry had the lowest incidence rates, whereas Pacific Islanders and populations with predominantly European and North African/Middle Eastern ancestry had the highest. An excess incidence in males was observed in most regions. Our results highlight substantial variation in ES incidence across geographic populations, reflecting potential ancestral influence on disease risk.
pH-Responsive liquid crystal double emulsion droplets prepared using microfluidics

Functionalized nematic liquid crystal (NLC) double emulsion droplets (DEDs) with different anchoring conditions on the inner and outer NLC surfaces were produced using a microfluidic method that employed glass capillaries with a combined co-flow and flow-focusing geometry. Planar (P) and homeotropic (H) NLC DED configurations were achieved using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and a mixture of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)/polysorbate 80 (TWEEN 80), respectively. The H configuration was not stable using SDS alone, and required the use of a mixture of SDS and TWEEN 80. The P/P, P/H, H/P, and H/H configurations on the inner/outer surfaces exhibited different defect structures, as predicted by the Poincare theorem. The transition from the P to H configuration on the outer surface was monitored by replacing the PVA aqueous solution (used to give initial P configurations on both the inner and outer surfaces) with the aqueous SDS/TWEEN 80 solution. The defect structures located on top of the NLC DED had a total defect strength of 2 and the defects were positioned at opposite poles during the P-to-H transition. The outer configuration of the poly(acrylic acid) (PAA)-coated NLC DED (NLC DEDPAA) was pH-responsive, with P and H configurations observed below and above the pKa of PAA, respectively. In addition, NLC DEDPAA was utilized for glucose detection by monitoring changes in the defect structures, which were brought about by a decrease in pH during an enzymatic reaction of glucose. A systematic study on the defect structure in NLC DEDs is of paramount importance for the liquid crystal field. In this work, we report a method of preparing pH-responsive NLC DEDs, which can be used as a new biosensor platform by detecting these unique defect structure.
Disrespect and abuse as a predictor of postnatal care utilisation and maternal-newborn well-being: a mixed-methods systematic review

Introduction Globally, a substantial number of women experience abusive and disrespectful care from health providers during childbirth. As evidence mounts on the nature and frequency of disrespect and abuse (D&A), little is known about the consequences of a negative experience of care on health and well-being of women and newborns. This review summarises available evidence on the associations of D&A of mother and newborns during childbirth and the immediate postnatal period (understood as the first 24 hours from birth) with maternal and neonatal postnatal care (PNC) utilisation, newborn feeding practices, newborn weight gain and maternal mental health. Methods We conducted a systematic review of all published qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods studies on D&A and its postnatal consequences across all countries. Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, LILACS and Scopus were searched using predetermined search terms. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed and presented separately. Thematic analysis was used to synthesise the qualitative evidence. Results A total of 4 quantitative, 1 mixed-methods and 16 qualitative studies were included. Quantitative studies suggested associations between several domains of D&A and use of PNC as well as maternal mental health. Different definitions of exposure meant formal meta-analysis was not possible. Three main themes emerged from the qualitative findings associated with PNC utilisation: (1) women’s direct experiences; (2) women’s expectations and (3) women’s agency. Conclusion This review is the first to examine the postnatal effect of D&A of women and newborns during childbirth. We highlight gaps in research that could help improve health outcomes and protect women and newborns during childbirth. Understanding the health and access consequences of a negative birth experience can help progress the respectful care agenda.