Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The transcriptional co-activator P/CAF potentiates TGF-β/Smad signaling

Smads perform pivotal functions in the intracellular signaling of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). TGF-β-mediated activation of TGF-β type I receptor stimulates the phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3 and subsequent heteromeric complex formation with Smad4. The heteromeric Smad complexes translocate into the nucleus where they, in co-operation with co-activators and co-repressors, regulate transcriptional responses. Here we investigated the possible co-activator function of P/CAF in TGF-β/Smad signaling. P/CAF was found to interact directly with Smad3 in vitro. Moreover, Smad2 and Smad3 interacted with P/CAF upon TGF-β type I receptor activation in cultured mammalian cells. The interaction involves the MH2 domain of Smad3 and the N-terminal region of P/CAF. P/CAF potentiated the transcriptional activity of heterologous Gal4–Smad2 and Gal4–Smad3 fusion proteins. In addition, P/CAF potentiated the TGF-β/Smad3-induced transcriptional responses, which could be further enhanced by co-activators p300 and Smad4. P/CAF may, therefore, activate Smad-mediated transcriptional responses independently or in co-operation with p300/CBP. Our results indicate a direct physical and functional interplay between two negative regulators of cell proliferation, Smad3 and P/CAF.
Effect of Exercise on Quality of Life in Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background Exercise has an integral impact on the physical and mental wellbeing of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), yet no comprehensive and quantitative analysis has been conducted on the effect of exercise on quality of life (QoL) in these patients. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of exercise on overall QoL and different domains of QoL in people with PD, as well as investigating the influence of factors such as the exercise type and intervention period. Methods Databases, such as PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, were searched since inception to August 14, 2018 to identify randomized controlled trials that compare the effect of exercise versus no intervention on QoL in PD patients. Following the subgroup analysis, heterogeneity was further explored. The quality of eligible studies was assessed according to PRISMA guidelines. Results 20 studies were included with 1,143 participants in total. A meta-analysis showed a significant improvement in QoL after exercise intervention in PD patients (SMD = −0.24, 95% CI = −0.36 to −0.12, P < 0.001). A subgroup analysis of exercise types revealed significant QoL improvement with aerobic exercise, martial arts, and dance, but not anaerobic exercise and combined exercise. Interventions lasting 12 weeks or longer improved QoL significantly. Conclusions Exercise interventions, especially aerobic exercise, dance, and Tai Chi, significantly improve QoL in PD patients. At least 12 weeks of exercise is needed to bring about significant benefits.
Carotenoid status signaling in captive and wild red-collared widowbirds: independent effects of badge size and color

Carotenoid-based plumage ornaments are typically considered to be sexually selected traits, functioning as honest condition-dependent signals of phenotypic quality, but few studies have addressed the function of carotenoid color variation in male contest competition. Using two experiments, we investigated the status signaling function of the variable (ranging from yellow to red) carotenoid throat patch (collar) in the polygynous, sexually dimorphic red-collared widowbird (Euplectes ardens). First, we tested if the red collar functions as a dominance signal by painting spectrometrically controlled collar patches onto the brown plumage of nonbreeding males and staging dyadic male contests over food resources. Red-collared males dominated orange males, which in turn dominated the control brown and novel blue collars. Red dominance persisted when the collar manipulations were reversed within dyads and also when tested against testosterone implanted males. In the second experiment the collar size and color of breeding males were manipulated in the field before and after territories were established. All males with enlarged red and most with enlarged orange or reduced red collars obtained territories, whereas most males with reduced orange and all with blackened (removed) collars failed to establish or retain territories. In addition, among the territorial males, those with reduced signals defended smaller territories, received more intrusions, and spent more time in aggressive interactions. Redness and, to a lesser extent, size of the carotenoid ornament both seem to independently indicate male dominance status or fighting ability in male contest competition. Copyright 2002.
Carry‐over of enhanced ultraviolet‐B exposure effects to successive generations of a desert annual: interaction with atmospheric CO2 and nutrient supply

The performance of fifth generation offspring of a desert annual (Dimorphotheca sinuata DC.) were compared in the absence of UV‐B, under variable atmospheric CO2 and nutrient supply, after four consecutive generations of concurrent exposure of their progenitors to UV‐B at ambient (seasonal range: 2.55–8.85 kJ m–2 d–1) and enhanced (seasonal range: 4.70–11.41 kJ m–2 d–1) levels. Offspring of progenitors grown under elevated UV‐B exhibited a diminished photosynthetic rate, a consequence of a reduced leaf density, and diminished foliar levels of carotenoids, polyphenolics and anthocyanins. Conversely, nonstructural carbohydrate and chlorophyll b levels were increased. Altered physiology was accompanied by reduced apical dominance and earlier flowering, features generally considered under photomorphogenic control, increased branching and inflorescence production and greater partitioning of biomass to reproductive structures, but diminished seed production. Many of these changes were magnified under nutrient limitation and intensified under atmospheric CO2 enriched conditions. The latter disagrees with current opinion that elevated CO2 may reduce detrimental UV‐B effects, at least over the long‐term. Observed correlations between seed production and polyphenolic, especially anthocyanin, levels in offspring, and indications of diminished lignification (thinner leaves, less robust stems and fewer lignified seeds set) all pointed to the involvement of the phenylpropanoid pathway in seed formation and plant structural development and its disruption during long‐term UV‐B exposure. Comparisons with earlier generations revealed trends with cumulative generations of enhanced UV‐B exposure of increasing chlorophyll b and nonstructural carbohydrates, decreasing polyphenolics and biomass allocation to vegetative structures, and diminishing seed production despite increasing biomass allocation to reproductive structures. Notwithstanding some physiological compensation (increased chlorophyll b), the accumulation and persistence of these ostensibly inherited changes in physiological and reproductive performance suggest a greater impact of elevated UV‐B on vegetation, primary production and regeneration over the long‐term than presently envisaged.
Antithrombotic Treatments in Patients with Chronic Coronary Artery Disease or Peripheral Artery Disease: A Systematic Review of Randomised Controlled Trials

Aims Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) is widely used for the prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with chronic coronary artery disease (CAD) and peripheral artery disease (PAD), but the risk of vascular events remains high. We aimed at identifying randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on antithrombotic treatments in patients with chronic CAD or PAD. Methods Searches were conducted on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL on March 1st, 2018. This systematic review (SR) uses a narrative synthesis to summarize the evidence for the efficacy and safety of antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapies in the population of both chronic CAD or PAD patients. Results Four RCTs from 27 publications were included. Study groups included 15,603 to 27,395 patients. ASA alone was the most extensively studied (n = 3); other studies included rivaroxaban with or without ASA (n = 1), vorapaxar alone (n = 1), and clopidogrel with (n = 1) or without ASA (n = 1). Clopidogrel alone and clopidogrel plus ASA compared to ASA presented similar efficacy with comparable safety profile. Rivaroxaban plus ASA significantly reduced the risk of the composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, and stroke compared to ASA alone, although major bleeding with rivaroxaban plus ASA increased. Conclusion There is limited and heterogeneous evidence on the prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with chronic CAD or PAD. Clopidogrel alone and clopidogrel plus ASA did not demonstrate superiority over ASA alone. A combination of rivaroxaban plus ASA may offer significant additional benefit in reducing cardiovascular outcomes, yet it may increase the risk of bleeding, compared to ASA alone.
Novel Value of Preoperative Gamma-Glutamyltransferase Levels in the Prognosis of AFP-Negative Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) is involved in tumor development and progression, but its prognostic value in α-fetoprotein- (AFP-) negative (AFP < 25 ng/mL) hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients remains unknown. Methods A large cohort of 678 patients with AFP-negative HCC following curative resection who had complete data were enrolled in this study. The optimal cutoff value for the preoperative level of GGT was determined by the X-tile program. Independent prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were also identified. Results The optimal cutoff values for the preoperative levels of GGT were 37.2 U/L and 102.8 U/L, which were used to divide all patients into three subgroups (group 1, GGT < 37.2 U/L (n = 211, 31.1%); group 2, GGT ≥ 37.2 and <102.8 U/L (n = 320, 47.2%); group 3, GGT ≥ 102.8 U/L (n = 147, 21.7%)), with distinct OS times (58.5 vs. 53.5 vs. 44.4 months, P < 0.001) and DFS times (47.9 vs. 40.3 vs. 30.1 months, P < 0.001). Elevated preoperative GGT levels were associated with an unfavorable tumor burden (larger tumor size, multiple tumors, and microvascular invasion) and were selected as independent predictors of a worse OS (group 2 vs. group 1, HR: 1.73 (1.13-2.65), P = 0.011; group 3 vs. group 1, HR: 3.28 (2.10-5.13), P < 0.001) and DFS (group 2 vs. group 1, HR: 1.52 (1.13-2.05), P = 0.006; group 3 vs. group 1, HR: 2.11 (1.49-2.98), P < 0.001) in multivariable analysis. Conclusions Elevated preoperative GGT levels are associated with an unfavorable tumor burden and serve as an independent prognostic marker for worse outcomes in AFP-negative HCC patients following resection.
An Articulated Pectoral Girdle and Forelimb of the Abelisaurid Theropod Majungasaurus crenatissimus from the Late Cretaceous of Madagascar

ABSTRACT Abelisaurid theropods are common members of Cretaceous Gondwanan faunas and are characterized by a bizarre, highly reduced forelimb. Unfortunately, forelimb elements are rarely preserved and thus the basic structure of the abelisaurid forelimb remains poorly understood. Until recently, the Upper Cretaceous Maevarano Formation of northwestern Madagascar has produced numerous exceptional specimens of the abelisaurid theropod Majungasaurus crenatissimus but comparatively little forelimb material. A recently discovered articulated skeleton of Majungasaurus preserves a virtually complete pectoral girdle and forelimb, which, along with additional isolated forelimb elements, affords important new insights into the structure of these elements. New specimens of the scapulocoracoid and humerus allow more detailed description of their morphology, and antebrachial and manual elements are described for the first time. The radius and ulna are approximately one-quarter the length of the humerus and both have expanded proximal and distal articular surfaces relative to their narrow diaphyses. The manus consists of four digits, each composed of a short metacarpal and one (digits I and IV) or two (digits II and III) phalanges. No ossified carpals are present. The proportions of the brachium and antebrachium are stout, more similar to the condition in Carnotaurus than in Aucasaurus. We reinterpret manual digit identities in Aucasaurus and Carnotaurus based on new information provided by the manus of Majungasaurus. Overall, the morphology of the forelimb in Majungasaurus reveals that abelisaurids share an extremely reduced, unique morphology that is dissimilar to the more typical theropod condition seen in other ceratosaurs.
Seasonal variation in weight, body measurements and condition of free-living Teal

The weights and measurements of almost 7000 Teal captured in Abberton Reservoir, Essex during 1969–85 were analysed. Teal showed significant differences between the first year and adult birds and between males and females in tarsus and wing length, but significant differences only between the sexes in skull length. Weights were corrected for body size using wing length to give a condition index. The index of condition increased in all age and sex classes from September to reach maximum values late in the year, before falling to lowest levels in February. Female birds show more marked responses by the reduction in January condition index to hard weather than males and, indeed, the proportion of females caught at Abberton significantly declines with increasing severity of weather conditions. The significance of these sex related responses are discussed in the light of known features of the ecology of the species.
Benchmarking of the BITalino biomedical toolkit against an established gold standard

The low-cost multimodal platform BITalino is being increasingly used for educational and research purposes. However, there is still a lack of well-structured work comparing data acquired by this toolkit against a reference device, using established experimental protocols. This work intends to fill the said gap by benchmarking the performance of BITalino against the BioPac MP35 Student Lab Pro device. This work followed a methodical experimental protocol to acquire data from the two devices simultaneously. Four physiological signals were acquired: electrocardiography, electromyography, electrodermal activity and electroencephalography. Root mean square error and coefficient of determination were computed to analyse differences between BITalino and BioPac. Electrodermal activity signals were very similar for the two devices, even without applying any major signal processing techniques. For electrocardiography, a simple morphological comparison also revealed high similarity between devices, and this similarity increased after a common segmentation procedure was followed. Regarding electromyography and electroencephalography data, the approach consisted of comparing features extracted using common post-processing methods. The differences between BITalino and BioPac were again small. Overall, the results presented here show a close similarity between data acquired by the BITalino and by the reference device. This is an important validation step for all researchers working with this multimodal platform.
The Benefit of a Flexible Ankle-Foot Orthosis on Balance and Walking Ability in Persons With Late Effects of Polio: A Mixed-Methods Study

Introduction Many persons with late effects of polio (LEoP) have muscle weakness in the lower limbs, which affects their balance and walking ability. Although an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) is commonly prescribed for these persons, there is limited knowledge if an AFO improves their balance and walking ability in terms of speed, distance, and perceived safety. The aims of this study were 1) to assess if a flexible AFO improves dynamic balance as well as indoor and outdoor walking in persons with mild to moderate LEoP and 2) to describe the participants' own perceptions of walking ability and safety, as well as advantages and disadvantages with an AFO. Materials and Methods A mixed-methods, repeated-measures, crossover design was used. Nineteen participants were assessed at two test occasions, with and without an AFO, with a 1-week interval. Dynamic balance was evaluated with the timed up and go (TUG) test and walking ability by the 10-m fast gait speed (FGS) tests, the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and timed walking over a 340-m-long pathway outdoors. The Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale was used to assess perceived exertion. The participants' perceptions of their walking ability and safety as well as advantages and disadvantages with an AFO were evaluated with questionnaires. Results The AFO significantly improved (P < 0.05) gait speed, outdoor walking, and reduced perceived exertion at one of the test occasions, but had no effect on dynamic balance (P > 0.6). A majority perceived significantly improved walking ability (P < 0.05) and increased walking safety (P < 0.01) with the AFO. Perceived advantages of the AFO were feelings of increased stability and walking distance and reduced risk of falling. Disadvantages were that it could be difficult to put on and uncomfortable to wear. Conclusions A flexible AFO marginally improves walking ability in persons with LEoP, as assessed quantitatively, but the subjective benefit of walking ability and safety suggests that a flexible AFO can be useful to improve daily functioning. In the future, the design of the AFOs needs to be more user-friendly.
Molecular authentication by multiplex-PCR of three similar medicinal plant species: Cynanchum wilfordii, Cynanchum auriculatum and Polygonum multiflorum (Fallopia multiflorum).

Polygoni Multiflori radix (Hashuoh in Korean and Heshouwu in Chinese) and Cynanchi Wilfordii Radix (Baekshuoh in Korean and Beishouwu in Chinese) are important oriental medicinal herbs in Korea, Japan, and China. The trnL (tRNA-Leu) intron region was targeted for molecular analysis with universal primers to discriminate the morphologically similar to Polygoni multiflori Radix and Cynanchi wilfordii radix from their adulterant, Cyanchum auriculatum. Analysis of sequencing data revealed DNA polymorphisms in the three species, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) sites, insertions, and deletions. Based on these DNA polymorphisms, specific primers were designed for each of the three species. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with specific primers was conducted for molecular authentication of Polygonum multiflorum, Cyanchum wilfordii and C. auriculatum. The established multiplex-PCR system effectively identified Polygoni multiflori Radix and Cynanchi Wilfordii radix. The results indicate that the trnL(tRNA-Leu) intron region can be used for inter-specific polymorphic study, and the methods presented in this study can be applied to molecular identification of other medicinal materials. Key words: Polygoni Multiflori radix, Cynanchi Wilfordii radix, Polygonum multiflorum,Cyanchum wilfordii, Cyanchum auriculatum, trnL(tRNA-Leu) intron, polymorphism, multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
Revision of the pteromalid wasp genus Trichilogaster Mayr (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea): gall-inducers on Australian acacias

The pteromalid genus Trichilogaster is revised. All the species are associated with galls on native Australian acacias, with the exception of one from Arabia. Two species, namely T. acaciaelongifoliae and T. signiventris, have become established in South Africa following their introduction for biological control of Acacia longifolia and A. pycnantha. The following seven species are redescribed: T. acaciaelongifoliae (Froggatt), esculenta Ferrière, flavivena (Girault), maideni Froggatt, pendulae Mayr, signiventris (Girault) (all native to Australia) and arabica Ferrière from Saudi Arabia. Epiperilampus atra Girault, E. atricorpus Girault, E. atricorpus socratis Girault and E. significatus Girault are synonymized (syn. n.) with T. maideni. The following two new Australian species are described from both sexes: T. olgae and T. stefani. A key for the separation of the females of the nine known species of the genus is provided, as well as a list of the 13 species of known host plants, which include 12 species of Acacia and one of Paraserianthes.
Software-Defined Networking in Mobile Access Networks

Software-Deﬁned Networking (SDN), a novel solution to network conﬁguration and management, has shown great potential to simplify the existing complex and inﬂexible network infrastructure. For the design strength, SDN is gaining various investment from both industry and academia in terms of experimental implementation and deployment. In this report, we present an overview of SDN, covering the main concepts, features, and the latest proposals
Metalaxyl and phosphonate as prophylactic and curative agents against stem infection of Leucadendron caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi

Neither metalaxyl (100 mL of a solution of 2.0 g a.i./L, applied as a root drench to 10-L pots) nor phosphonate (foliar spray at 1.0 g a.i./L, applied to runoff) controlled Phytophthora cinnamomi stem infection of Leucadendron laureolum x L. salignum hybrid when applied 10 days after inoculation. Both fungicides were most effective when applied prior to inoculation. Neither fungicide was able to kill P. cinnamomi within established infections. The fungus survived within the vascular tissues of treated plants. Infection was confined to cortical tissue by wound periderm when the rate of tissue invasion by P. cinnamomi was slowed by the fungicides. The results confirm observations made in protea growers' fields that with highly susceptible species, systemic fungicides can have poor curative properties and should be used as a prophylactic, in conjunction with other disease control methods.
Microagujas y Transcutol® como promotores de la penetración transdérmica de sibutramina formulada en parche transdérmico

Introduction: the main permeation barrier is the skin. Although it is almost an impermeable barrier to most substances, new ways have been examined to improve its permeability by using new technologies such as microneedles and chemical enhancers like Transcutol. Objective: to develop and to characterize a transdermal patch containing sibutramine hydrochloride as model drug and using microneedles and Transcutol as transdermal drug delivery enhancers. Methods: Physicochemical characterization of sibutramine hydrochloride patches using polarized light microscopy, bioadhesion, tensile strength studies. The diffusion studies were performed in Franz-type diffusion cells with human abdominal skin as a sort of membrane between both compartments. The active ingredient was quantified through capillary electrophoresis. Results: bioadhesive patches were obtained, with adequate stability of sibutramine hydrochloride in the polymer matrix of chitosan. The use of microneedles and Transcutol increased sibutramine hydrochloride delivery through the human skin when compared with the control patch. The flow rates were 0.0649 mg.cm. h and 0,0816 mg.cm. h in the enhanced patch by using 1 and 2 mm microneedles respectively, in comparison with flow rates of 0,0527 mg.cm. h and 0.0554 mg.cm . h for the control patch having no enhancing agent with 1 and 2 mm microneedles respectively. Conclusions: the results show that it is possible to use Transcutol and microneedles to increase the delivery of potent drugs having a structure similar to that of sibutramine through transdermal administration. All this generates new alternatives to oral pharmaceuticals in order to treat ailments and diseases.