Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Ecological niche modelling of Gargaphia decoris (Heteroptera), a biological control agent of the invasive tree Solanum mauritianum (Solanales: Solanaceae).

BACKGROUND The South American tree Solanum mauritianum Scopoli (Solanaceae) is a problematic invasive plant in numerous tropical, sub-tropical and temperate regions across the globe. As conventional management approaches are not cost-effective, biological control provides an alternative approach. Gargaphia decoris Drake (Tingidae), is currently being implemented as a biological control agent in South Africa and New Zealand. Considering the importance of climate in the establishment and success of a biological control agent, this study used ecological niche models (ENM) to identify areas where S. mauritianum is a problematic invader and where suitable conditions exist for G. decoris. Additionally, the climate niche dynamics of G. decoris were investigated and ENMs projected worldwide for the year 2050 were built. RESULTS Our results indicate that most of the countries where S. mauritianum is problematic have suitable climatic conditions for G. decoris, and that the species can survive in climates with lower temperatures than the ones in its native range. For future climates ENMs predict wider regions with favourable climatic conditions for G. decoris. CONCLUSION Considering the results of this study, the prospects of G. decoris as a biological control agent is good under present and future climates. The agent's introduction could be considered in affected countries where it has not been released. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Current State of and Future Opportunities for Prediction in Microbiome Research: Report from the Mid-Atlantic Microbiome Meet-up in Baltimore on 9 January 2019

Accurate predictions across multiple fields of microbiome research have far-reaching benefits to society, but there are few widely accepted quantitative tools to make accurate predictions about microbial communities and their functions. More discussion is needed about the current state of microbiome analysis and the tools required to overcome the hurdles preventing development and implementation of predictive analyses. ABSTRACT Accurate predictions across multiple fields of microbiome research have far-reaching benefits to society, but there are few widely accepted quantitative tools to make accurate predictions about microbial communities and their functions. More discussion is needed about the current state of microbiome analysis and the tools required to overcome the hurdles preventing development and implementation of predictive analyses. We summarize the ideas generated by participants of the Mid-Atlantic Microbiome Meet-up in January 2019. While it was clear from the presentations that most fields have advanced beyond simple associative and descriptive analyses, most fields lack essential elements needed for the development and application of accurate microbiome predictions. Participants stressed the need for standardization, reproducibility, and accessibility of quantitative tools as key to advancing predictions in microbiome analysis. We highlight hurdles that participants identified and propose directions for future efforts that will advance the use of prediction in microbiome research.
Short-term creatine supplementation changes protein metabolism signaling in hindlimb suspension

The effect of a short-term creatine supplementation on hindlimb suspension (HS)-induced muscle atrophy was investigated. Creatine monohydrate (5 g/kg b.w. per day) or placebo, divided in 2 daily doses, was given by oral gavage for 5 days. Rats were maintained in HS with dietary supplementation concomitantly for 5 days. Body weight, soleus and EDL muscle masses, and cross-sectional areas (CSA) of the muscle fibers were measured. Signaling pathways associated with skeletal muscle mass regulation (FST, MSTN, FAK, IGF-1, MGF, Akt, mTOR, atrogin-1, and MuRF1 expressions, and Akt, S6, GSK3B, and 4EBP1 proteins) were evaluated in the muscles. Soleus muscle exhibited more atrophy than the EDL muscle due to HS. Creatine supplementation attenuated the decrease of wet weight and increased p-4EBP1 protein in the EDL muscle of HS rats. Also, creatine increased mTOR and atrogin-1 expressions in the same muscle and condition. In the absence of HS, creatine supplementation increased FAK and decreased MGF expressions in the EDL muscle. Creatine attenuated the increase in FST expression due to HS in the soleus muscle. MuRF1 expression increased in the soleus muscle due to creatine supplementation in HS animals whereas atrogin-1 expression increased still further in this group compared with untreated HS rats. In conclusion, short-term creatine supplementation changed protein metabolism signaling in soleus and EDL muscles. However, creatine supplementation only slightly attenuated the mass loss of both muscles and did not prevent the CSA reduction and muscle strength decrease induced by HS for 5 days.
New Challenges of Wireless Power Transfer and Secured Billing for Internet of Electric Vehicles

Smart grid modernization and integration of Internet of electric vehicles (IoEVs) have attracted much attention due to their processing capability and convenience. In addition, the developments of magnetic resonance or inductive-based wireless power transfer (WPT) technologies can improve the efficiency of power transmission and user convenience. In particular, the use of renewable energy resources (RERs) is very attractive for low-carbon clean energy, and thus we can imagine integration services that utilize RERs and IoEVs. Accordingly, energy trading markets among IoEVs and power stations will appear in future smart grids. Thus, this article proposes an auction mechanism for energy trading markets of IoEV and RER power stations. Moreover, we can imagine a convenient system where IoEVs can automatically be charged from the WPT charging pad when they are parked in an IoEV parking lot. However, to realize such a convenient system, there are several problems that need to be resolved. Suppose that many IoEVs are parked in the parking lot; then due to power system constraints, it is impossible to simultaneously charge all IoEVs at maximum power. Therefore, an efficient load scheduling algorithm that allows several electric vehicle service equipments (EVSEs) to charge many IoEVs is required. Furthermore, when IoEVs are automatically charged in the anticipated convenient system, it is particularly challenging to design a suitable and secure billing system. In this article, we introduce the advantages of a convenient system that integrates IoEVs and a smart grid. We also discuss the challenges and solutions for future charging and billing systems.
Therapeutic Effect of Curcumin, a Plant Polyphenol Extracted From Curcuma longae, in Fibroblasts From Patients With Graves' Orbitopathy.

Purpose We examined the therapeutic effect of nontoxic concentrations of curcumin, a plant polyphenol extracted from Curcuma longae, in primary cultures of orbital fibroblasts from Graves' orbitopathy (GO). Methods The effect of curcumin on interleukin (IL)-1β induced-proinflammatory cytokine production was determined using quantitative real-time PCR, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and Western blot analysis. Adipogenic differentiation was identified using Oil-Red O staining, and levels of peroxisome proliferator activator γ (PPARγ) and CCAAT-enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBP) α/β were determined by Western blot analyses. Antioxidant activity was measured using an oxidant-sensitive fluorescent probe to detect intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated in response to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and cigarette smoke extract (CSE). Results Treatment with curcumin resulted in a dose- and time-dependent decrease in IL-1β-induced synthesis of inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, and ICAM-1 at both mRNA and protein levels. Decrease in lipid droplets and expression of PPARγ and c/EBPα/β were noted in fibroblasts treated with curcumin during adipose differentiation. CSE- or H2O2-induced ROS synthesis was significantly lower in curcumin-treated fibroblasts in comparison with the control. Curcumin significantly suppressed IL-1β-induced phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase, Akt, c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase, and nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, p65 proteins and stimulated β-catenin translocation into nucleus during adipogenesis. Conclusions Curcumin inhibits proinflammatory cytokine production, ROS synthesis, and adipogenesis in orbital fibroblasts of GO patients in vitro possibly related to multiple proinflammatory signaling molecules and β-catenin pathway. The results of the study support potential use of the curcumin in the treatment of GO.
Landscape of RNA editing reveals new insights into the dynamic gene regulation of spermatogenesis

ABSTRACT Spermatogenesis is an important physiological process associated with male infertility. As a kind of post-transcriptional regulation, RNA editings (REs) change the genetic information at the mRNA level. But whether there are REs and what’s the role of REs during the process are still unclear. In this study, we integrated published RNA-Seq datasets and established a landscape of RNA REs during the development of mouse spermatogenesis. Totally, 7530 editing sites occurred in 2012 genes among all types of male germ cells were found, these sites enrich on some regions of chromosomes, including chromosome 17 and both ends of chromosome Y. We also found about half of the REs in CDSs can cause amino acids changes. Some non-synonymous REs which exist in specific genes may play important roles in spermatogenesis. Finally, we verified a non-synonymous A-to-I RNA editing site in Cog3 and a stoploss editing in Tssk6 during spermatogenesis. In short, we systematically analyzed the dynamic landscape of RNA editing at different stages of spermatogenesis.
The Effect of the Modified Jaw-Thrust Maneuver on the Depth of Sedation During Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy.

STUDY OBJECTIVES The modified jaw-thrust maneuver (MJTM) during drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) is known to predict the treatment effect of mandibular advancement devices. However, its effect on the depth of sedation and potential to provoke arousal by awakening patients during the maneuver has not been studied so far. This study investigated the effect of the MJTM on the depth of sedation during DISE. METHODS Forty patients on whom the MJTM was performed during DISE were included. The effect of the maneuver was evaluated at the levels of the velum, lateral wall of the oropharynx, base of the tongue, and epiglottis. Obstruction was defined as the collapse of the upper airway exceeding 75%, and improvement with the MJTM was defined as the widening of the upper airway by more than 50% during the maneuver. A bolus injection of midazolam was used to induce sedation and control the depth of sedation (bispectral index value of 60 to 80). RESULTS Obstructions were present in the velum of all patients, lateral wall of the oropharynx of 13 patients, base of the tongue of 28 patients, and epiglottis of 6 patients. After the MJTM, improvement of the obstruction was observed in 57.5%, 61.5%, 82%, and 66.7% of patients with velum, lateral wall of the oropharynx, base of the tongue, and epiglottis obstructions, respectively. An increase in the bispectral index value of more than 20 was observed in 8 patients. Four patients awakened during the procedure. CONCLUSIONS The MJTM significantly relieved obstruction during DISE, especially at the base of the tongue. However, this might have been caused by an increase in the degree of awakening during the maneuver. Therefore, MJTM's effect on the depth of sedation may help in improving the degree of airway obstruction.
Relationship between neighbourhood social participation and depression among older adults: A longitudinal study in China.

Previous research has found a negative linkage between neighbourhood social participation and depressive symptoms in Western countries, but the cross-sectional design of these studies limits the ability to infer causality. Little attention has been paid to socio-psychological pathways linking neighbourhood social participation to depressive symptoms among older adults in China. This study aimed to examine the impact of neighbourhood social participation on depressive symptoms among older adults in China. It also further explored the mediating roles of physical activity, social contact among neighbours, and contact with own children in the relationship between social participation and depressive symptoms. Data obtained through three waves (2011, 2013, and 2015) of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study were used. The sample consisted of 10,105 individuals aged 60 and above and 24,623 person-year records captured during these three waves. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiology Studies of Depression scale. Results showed that respondents' depression decreased with an increasing level of neighbourhood social participation, more time spent on physical activities, and a higher frequency of contact with neighbours and with own children. These factors were found to partly mediate the relationship between neighbourhood social participation and depression. The negative relationships between social contact and depression and contact with own children and depression were both strengthened by neighbourhood social participation. In conclusion, physical activity, social contact among neighbours and contact with own children are mechanisms through which neighbourhood social participation lowers the risk of depression among older adults in China.
Systematic review of endovascular repair of ascending aortic dissection

Endovascular repair has been used in selected ascending aortic dissection patients judged unfit for direct open surgery. However, the selective criteria and the results of endovascular repair of ascending aortic dissection, and the potential risk factors of adverse events were still obscure. The aim of this study was to summarize the published data linking endovascular therapy for ascending aortic dissection.
A Case of Right Ventricular Dysfunction with Right Ventricular Failure Secondary to Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome

Patient: Male, 53 Final Diagnosis: Right ventricular dysfunction secondary to obesity hypoventilation syndrome Symptoms: Shortness of breath Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Echocardiogram (TTE) Specialty: Cardiology Objective: Challenging differential diagnosis Background: Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) is characterized by a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2, daytime hypercapnia, an arterial carbon dioxide tension ≥45 mmHg, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OHS can lead to pulmonary hypertension. It has not been clearly demonstrated that OHS with pulmonary hypertension can lead to right ventricular dysfunction and right heart failure. A case is presented of right ventricular dysfunction and right ventricular failure secondary to OHS. Case Report: A 53-year-old man, who was morbidly obese with a BMI of 75 kg/m2, presented with shortness of breath (SOB) and hypercapnia. He had never smoked but had a history of severe OSA and hypertension. On examination, the patient was obese with normal lung auscultation and mild pitting edema of the lower extremities. A spiral computed tomography (CT) angiogram showed no evidence of pulmonary embolism or interstitial lung disease. Pulmonary function testing showed no obstructive airway disease and a normal diffusion capacity. Two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) showed normal left ventricular function and a dilated right ventricle (RV) with a flattened septal wall, moderate tricuspid regurgitation, and an estimated right ventricular systolic pressure of 55–60 mmHg. The patient was discharged on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and oxygen at night, and as needed during the day. Conclusions: This report has shown that OHS without underlying causes of alveolar hypoventilation can result in isolated right ventricular dysfunction and right ventricular failure.
The Value of Diversity in Cognitive Science

A recent article (Núñez et al., 2019) claims that cognitive science, while starting off as a multidisciplinary enterprise, has "failed to transition to a mature inter-disciplinary coherent field. " Two indicators reported in support of this claim target one of the two journals of the Cognitive Science Society, Cognitive Science, depicting cognitive science as an increasingly monodisciplinary subfield which is dominated by psychology. With a focus on the society's other journal, Topics in Cognitive Science, the present commentary reveals a greater degree of interdisciplinarity and discusses the relative values of diversity and integration for the field.
Anti-diabetic agents for prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus in people with pre-diabetes: a systematic review and network meta-analysis protocol

Introduction Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a substantial health problem worldwide. Pre-diabetic state is associated with increased risk for the development of diabetes. There are various pharmacological therapies with glucose-lowering activity for diabetes prevention. Of those, most are being compared with placebo instead of active agents. The relative effects and safety of different glucose-lowering drugs still remain uncertain. To address this gap, we will conduct a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) to evaluate comparative efficacy and safety of glucose-lowering agents for T2DM prevention in patients with pre-diabetes. Methods and analysis PubMed, the Cochrane library and Embase will be searched from inception to December 2019 for relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that examined anti-diabetic drugs for diabetes prevention in patients with pre-diabetes. Two reviewers working independently will screen titles, abstracts and full papers. Data extraction will also be completed by two independent authors. The primary outcome will be the incidence of T2DM in patients with pre-diabetes at baseline. Secondary outcomes will include the achievement of normoglycaemia, all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality and hypoglycaemic event. Pairwise meta-analysis and NMA will be conducted for each outcome using a frequentist random-effects model. Additionally, subgroup analyses will also be performed. The comparison-adjusted funnel plot will be used to assess publication bias. The overall quality of evidence will be rated with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework. Data analysis will be conducted using Stata V.14. 0. Ethics and dissemination Ethics approval is not required. We plan to submit the results of this study to a peer-review journal. PROSPERO registration number CRD42019119157.
Regulating emotions under exposure to negative out-group-related news material results in increased acceptance of out-groups

ABSTRACT Negative emotions affect the acceptance of out-groups. Here, we investigated whether modifying negative emotions would affect perceptions of out-groups. We experimentally manipulated the use of two emotion regulation strategies: suppression of emotional expression and cognitive reappraisal, the latter involving reframing a situation to mitigate its emotional impact. Using a population-based sample (N = 317), we conducted an online randomized controlled trial. Participants regulated their emotions while reading threatening news about out-groups. Not only reappraisal, but also suppression increased immediate acceptance of out-groups. The effect of reappraisal was partly mediated by decreased disgust, suggesting unique effects of reappraisal on this emotion. In the suppression condition acceptance decreased at high levels of habitual emotion regulation, whereas reappraisal showed an opposite tendency. Previous research may have underestimated the importance of different emotion regulation strategies on prejudice, and that relatively simple interventions can affect prejudice. The findings are of interest to prejudice prevention programs.
Cell-type–specific transcriptome and histone modification dynamics during cellular reprogramming in the Arabidopsis stomatal lineage

Significance Houseplant enthusiasts know the power of plant regeneration—small cuttings can regrow into whole plants. Yet normally, plant tissues and cells maintain distinct and stable identities. A biochemical modification to histones (H3K27me3) is thought to lock in cell identity by preventing access to specific regions of DNA. Here, we investigated how H3K27me3 was used to maintain the identity of stomatal guard cells. We identified changes in H3K27me3 distribution and gene expression in normal guard cells and after we induced “reprogramming” into alternative cell identities. This linked the loss of H3K27me3 at stomatal precursor genes to a return to an earlier fate, but increased H3K27me3 at a wound-induced reprogramming gene indicated how plant cells may sense and resist inappropriate loss of identity. Plant cells maintain remarkable developmental plasticity, allowing them to clonally reproduce and to repair tissues following wounding; yet plant cells normally stably maintain consistent identities. Although this capacity was recognized long ago, our mechanistic understanding of the establishment, maintenance, and erasure of cellular identities in plants remains limited. Here, we develop a cell-type–specific reprogramming system that can be probed at the genome-wide scale for alterations in gene expression and histone modifications. We show that relationships among H3K27me3, H3K4me3, and gene expression in single cell types mirror trends from complex tissue, and that H3K27me3 dynamics regulate guard cell identity. Further, upon initiation of reprogramming, guard cells induce H3K27me3-mediated repression of a regulator of wound-induced callus formation, suggesting that cells in intact tissues may have mechanisms to sense and resist inappropriate dedifferentiation. The matched ChIP-sequencing (seq) and RNA-seq datasets created for this analysis also serve as a resource enabling inquiries into the dynamic and global-scale distribution of histone modifications in single cell types in plants.
Effects of human placenta‐derived mesenchymal stem cells with NK4 gene expression on glioblastoma multiforme cell lines

Poor prognosis and low survival are commonly seen in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Due to the specific nature of solid tumors such as GBM, delivery of therapeutic agents to the tumor sites is difficult. So, one of the major challenges in the treatment of these tumors is a selection of appropriate method for drug delivery. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have a unique characteristic in migration toward the tumor tissue. In this regard, the present study examined the antitumor effects of manipulating human placenta‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (PDMSCs) with NK4 expression (PDMSC‐NK4) on GBM cells. After separation and characterization of PDMSCs, these cells were transduced with NK4 which was known as the antagonist of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). The results indicated that engineered PDMSCs preferably migrate into GBM cells by transwell coculture system. In addition, the proliferation of the GBM cells significantly reduced after coculture with these cells. In fact, manipulated PDMSCs inhibited growth of tumor cells by induction of apoptosis. Our findings suggested that besides having antitumor effects, PDMSCs can also be applied as an ideal cellular vehicle to target the glioblastoma multiforme.