Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Independently evolved and gene flow‐accelerated pesticide resistance in two‐spotted spider mites

Abstract Pest species are often able to develop resistance to pesticides used to control them, depending on how rapidly resistance can emerge within a population or spread from another resistant population. We examined the evolution of bifenazate resistance in China in the two‐spotted spider mite (TSSM) Tetranychus uticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae), one of the most resistant arthropods, by using bioassays, detection of mutations in the target cytb gene, and population genetic structure analysis using microsatellite markers. Bioassays showed variable levels of resistance to bifenazate. The cytb mutation G126S, which confers medium resistance in TSSM to bifenazate, had previously been detected prior to the application of bifenazate and was now widespread, suggesting likely resistance evolution from standing genetic variation. G126S was detected in geographically distant populations across different genetic clusters, pointing to the independent origin of this mutation in different TSSM populations. A novel A269V mutation linked to a low‐level resistance was detected in two southern populations. Widespread resistance associated with a high frequency of the G126S allele was found in four populations from the Beijing area which were not genetically differentiated. In this case, a high level of gene flows likely accelerated the development of resistance within this local region, as well as into an outlying region distant from Beijing. These findings, therefore, suggest patterns consistent with both local evolution of pesticide resistance as well as an impact of migration, helping to inform resistance management strategies in TSSM.
T Cells in Atherosclerosis in Ldlr−/− and Apoe−/− Mice

Atherosclerosis is the underlying basis for most cardiovascular diseases. It is a chronic inflammation affecting the arterial intima and is promoted by hypercholesterolemia. Cells of both the innate and adaptive immune systems contribute to this inflammation with macrophages and T cells being the most abundant immune cells in the atherosclerotic plaques. In this review, we discuss the studies that examined the role of T cells and T cell subsets in Apoe−/− and Ldlr−/− murine models of atherosclerosis. While there is a general consensus that Th1 cells are pro-atherogenic and regulatory T cells are atheroprotective, the role of other subsets is more ambiguous. In addition, the results in the two models of atherosclerosis do not always yield similar results. Additional studies in the two murine models using cell specific gene manipulations are needed.
Clonal population structure of the chestnut blight fungus in expanding ranges in southeastern Europe

Expanding populations are often less genetically diverse at their margins than at the centre of a species’ range. Established, older populations of the chestnut blight fungus, Cryphonectria parasitica, are more variable for vegetative compatibility (vc) types than in expanding populations in southeastern Europe where C. parasitica has colonized relatively recently. To test whether vc types represent clones, we genotyped 373 isolates of C. parasitica from southern Italy, Romania, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Greece and Turkey using 11 sequence‐characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers. Ten SCAR loci and six vegetative incompatibility (vic) loci were polymorphic in these samples. These populations are clonal by all criteria tested: (i) among 373 isolates, we found only eight multilocus haplotypes, and the same haplotypes were found in multiple countries, sometimes separated in time by as much as 12 years; (ii) the number of haplotypes observed was significantly less than expected under random mating; (iii) populations are in linkage disequilibrium; (iv) the two sets of independent markers, SCARs and vc types, are highly correlated; and (v) sexual structures of C. parasitica were found only in Bulgaria and Romania. One mating type (MAT‐1) was found in 98% of the isolates sampled. In contrast, a population in northern Italy, in the central part of the range in Europe, had 12 multilocus haplotypes among 19 isolates. The spread of a few clones could be the result either of founder effect and restricted migration, or these clones have greater fitness than others and spread because they are better adapted to conditions in southeastern Europe.
Percent Body Fat Cut-Off Points for Diagnosing Metabolic Syndrome in Korean Adolescents

Background: This study aimed to identify percent body fat cut-off points related to metabolic syndrome in a large sample of Korean adolescents. Methods: The subjects (n=2120; boys=1107, girls=1013) were middle and high school students aged 12–17 yr who participated in the Korean National Fitness Award Project in 2013. Percent body fat was estimated via eight-polar bioelectrical impedance analysis. Metabolic syndrome was classified using established standards based on the National Cholesterol Education Program with the definition modified for age. Age- and sex-specific percent body fat z-scores were calculated for every adolescent using skewness, median, and coefficient of variation curves to account for growth and development. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to identify the percent body fat cut-off points using percent body fat z-scores from skewness, median, and coefficient of variation curves as the test and metabolic syndrome as the criterion. Results: Based on the modified National Cholesterol Education Program criteria for metabolic syndrome, the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for percent body fat were 0.882 and 0.893 for boys and girls, respectively. The percent body fat percentiles were 82.2 and 87.3 for boys and girls, respectively. According to the skewness, median, and coefficient of variation curves, the percent body fat cut-off points based on the modified National Cholesterol Education Program criteria were 23.6%–25.7% for boys and 32.8%–37.3% for girls, both aged 12–17 yr. Age- and sex-specific percent body fat cut-off points were identified in relation to the metabolic syndrome status of Korean adolescents. Conclusion: These percent body fat cut-offs might be useful for identifying metabolic abnormality due to obesity in Korean adolescents.
Genomic analysis of Lactobacillus reuteri WHH1689 reveals its probiotic properties and stress resistance

Abstract Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) WHH1689, which was isolated from Chinese traditional highland barley wine, exhibited high survival period at room temperature in drinkable probiotic yogurt. This article aimed to indicate the genes involved in probiotic function of WHH1689 and reveal potential stress resistance based on genomic analysis. Analysis of comparative genome with closely related L. reuteri strains identified special stress adaptation. MUMmer and ACT softwares were applied for collinear analysis, and OrthoMCL program was used for sequence alignment involved in distribution of protein cluster. We identified genes coding for carbohydrate transport and enzymes, carbon metabolism pathway, gastrointestinal tract resistance, adhesive ability, and folic acid biosynthesis, etc. Genome sequence and comparative genome analysis of L. reuteri WHH1689 demonstrated specific genes for genetic adaptation and stress resistance. Tolerance, adhesion, and folate test indicated the strain had multiple probiotics. L. reuteri WHH1689 has the potential to be a probiotic candidate in dairy foods.
A Healthcare Pathway to Nirvana? The SNF Transition to Home

While the majority of attention and the literature has focused on transitional models out of the acute care setting, transitions from the post-acute setting—especially from the skilled nursing facility (SNF)—are not well understood. What are the ‘best practices’, or thoughtful considerations, for a successful transition back to home and the community? Facilitation of a smooth and seamless transition relies on the abilities of the SNF and primary care teams, as well as community agencies, to coordinate care in a patient-centered manner together. This article will focus on this specific transition within the healthcare continuum.
Cardiovascular Risk Estimated by UKPDS Risk Engine Algorithm in Diabetes

Abstract Since there is a high prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2), as well as CVD in Montenegro, we aimed to estimate CVD risk by United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) risk engine algorithm in individuals with DM2. Furthermore, we aimed to explore whether non-traditional biomarker such as high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is superior for CVD risk prediction over old traditional risk factors. A total of 180 participants with DM2 (of them 50% females) were included in the current cross-sectional study. Biochemical and anthropometric parameters, and blood pressure were obtained. More males than females were classified at high UKPDS risk category (p<0.001). Also, about one third of diabetic patients (29.4%) were classified into the high-risk category. In multivariate regression analysis, triglycerides [Odds ratio (OR) =1.703, p=0.001] and creatinine concentration (OR=1.040, p<0.001) were independent predictors of CVD risk, whereas hsCRP was not correlated with CVD risk. HsCRP is not superior for CVD risk prediction by UKPDS risk engine algorithm over high triglyceride and creatinine levels in diabetic population, which suggests that the old traditional markers must not be underestimated when examining CVD risk in population with diabetes.
Fitness costs associated with acetyl‐coenzyme A carboxylase mutations endowing herbicide resistance in American sloughgrass (Beckmannia syzigachne Steud.)

Abstract Weed resistance to herbicide can be conferred by gene mutations, and some mutations can cause pleiotropic effects in some cases. We investigated the pleiotropic effects associated with five specific ACCase mutations (Ile1781Leu, Trp2027Cys, Ile2041Asn, Asp2078Gly, and Gly2096Ala) on the plant growth, seed production, and resource competitiveness in American sloughgrass. Resistant plants (M/M) homozygous for specific ACCase mutation and susceptible wild‐type plants (W/W) were derived from single heterozygous mother plant (M/W) by genotyping. Plant growth assay and neighborhood experiments were performed to quantify variation between M/M plants and W/W plants. The Ile1781Leu mutation resulted in slight increases in plant growth in pure stands and improved resource competitiveness under low‐competition conditions in pot experiments, but no clear variation was observed under high competitive pressure or field conditions. During competition with wheat plants under field conditions, American sloughgrass plants containing Ile2041Asn ACCase exhibited a significantly lower (12.5%) aboveground biomass but no distinct differences in seed production or resource competitiveness. No significant detrimental pleiotropic effects associated with Gly2096Ala were detected in American sloughgrass. The Trp2027Cys mutation distinctly reduced seed production, especially under high competitive pressure, but did not significantly alter plant growth. The Asp2078Gly mutation consistently reduced not only plant growth and seed production but also resource competitiveness. Synthesis. The Trp2027Cys and Asp2078Gly mutations led to significant fitness costs, which may reduce the frequency of resistance alleles and reduce the propagation speed of resistant weeds in the absence of ACCase inhibitor herbicides. The Ile1781Leu, Ile2041Asn, and Gly2096Ala mutations displayed no obvious fitness costs or displayed very small fitness penalties, which would likely have no effect on the establishment of resistant weeds in the field.
Successful Ageing in Singapore

Singapore has experienced rapid development in the past 50 years. This has presented unique challenges with regard to land space and a rapidly ageing population. The role of extrinsic factors in successful ageing is well documented, and places a degree of responsibility on the state and healthcare systems. Singapore has taken many proactive measures to meet this responsibility by implementing policy changes across multiple domains including housing, transport, education and research. One hospital in the north east of Singapore has undertaken a frailty screening program that aims to identify, prevent and reverse frailty at an early stage. This paper provides a review of these national and regional measures.
Ca2+-dependent Focal Exocytosis of Golgi-derived Vesicles Helps Phagocytic Uptake in Macrophages*

The role of Golgi apparatus during phagocytic uptake by macrophages has been ruled out in the past. Notably, all such reports were limited to Fcγ receptor-mediated phagocytosis. Here, we unravel a highly devolved mechanism for recruitment of Golgi-derived secretory vesicles during phagosome biogenesis, which was important for uptake of most cargos, except the IgG-coated ones. We report recruitment of mannosidase-II-positive Golgi-derived vesicles during uptake of diverse targets, including latex beads, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis in human and mouse macrophages. The recruitment of mannosidase-II vesicles was an early event mediated by focal exocytosis and coincided with the recruitment of transferrin receptor, VAMP3, and dynamin-2. Brefeldin A treatment inhibited mannosidase-II recruitment and phagocytic uptake of serum-coated or -uncoated latex beads and E. coli. However, consistent with previous studies, brefeldin A treatment did not affect uptake of IgG-coated latex beads. Mechanistically, recruitment of mannosidase-II vesicles during phagocytic uptake required Ca2+ from both extra- and intracellular sources apart from PI3K, microtubules, and dynamin-2. Extracellular Ca2+ via voltage-gated Ca2+ channels established a Ca2+-dependent local phosphatidylinositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate gradient, which guides the focal movement of Golgi-derived vesicles to the site of uptake. We confirmed Golgi-derived vesicles recruited during phagocytosis were secretory vesicles as their recruitment was sensitive to depletion of VAMP2 or NCS1, whereas recruitment of the recycling endosome marker VAMP3 was unaffected. Depletion of both VAMP2 and NCS1 individually resulted in the reduced uptake by macrophages. Together, the study provides a previously unprecedented role of Golgi-derived secretory vesicles in phagocytic uptake, the key innate defense function.
Effects of Talinum triangulare leaf flavonoid extract on streptozotocin‐induced hyperglycemia and associated complications in rats

Abstract Talinum triangulare leaf flavonoid extract (TTFE) was evaluated for its effects on streptozotocin‐hyperglycemia and associated complications especially as it relates to dyslipidemia, lipid peroxidation, and renal dysfunction in rats. Two normoglycemic rat groups designated: control (administered distilled water) and control + TTFE (administered 10 mg/kg b.w. TTFE) and two streptozotocin‐induced (STZ) diabetic rat groups designated: STZ‐control (administered distilled water) and STZ + TTFE (administered 10 mg/kg TTFE). The treatment was given orally once daily for 21 consecutive days. Body weight and insulin concentration showed significant improvement while blood glucose, uric acid, creatinine, and total bilirubin concentrations were significantly reduced in diabetic rats administered TTFE compared to diabetic untreated rats. Furthermore, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL‐cholesterol, and malondialdehyde concentrations were significantly lowered in diabetic rats administered TTFE compared with diabetic untreated rats. Key enzymes involved in carbohydrate breakdown and cholesterol synthesis, α‐amylase and 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐CoA (HMG‐CoA) reductase, respectively, were significantly inhibited in TTFE‐treated diabetic rats compared to diabetic control. Results presented in this study suggest that administration of TTFE for 21 days normalized STZ‐induced hyperglycemia and its associated dyslipidemia by a mechanism involving inhibition of α‐amylase and HMG‐CoA reductase activities, respectively, in rats.
Phenolic compounds and bioactivity evaluation of aqueous and methanol extracts of Allium mongolicum Regel

Abstract Allium mongolicum Regel (AM), widely distributed in western China, is a traditional Mongolian medicine herb. Two different solvents as water and methanol were used to extract AM, and their antioxidant capacity and inhibitory effects against key enzymes related to metabolic syndrome were assessed. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated through the assay of radical scavenging ability on DPPH and ABTS and reducing power assays. In addition, the total phenolic content and total flavonoids content were quantificated and analyzed. Aqueous extract, having higher phenolic content (10.20 mg GAE/g DW) and flavonoid content (4.02 mg QE/g DW), showed better antioxidant and inhibitory effects against lipase and angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE); as for α‐glucosidase, the extract made by methanol showed better ability. In general, the aqueous extract of A. mongolicum Regel has the potential to be used as a functional food or nutraceutical in prevention and treatment of obesity and hypertension due to the high antioxidant and sound inhibitory potential against vital enzymes relevant to obesity and hypertension.
Should I Stay or Go: Rural Ageing, a Time for Reflection

(1) Background: Studies have shown that older people prefer to continue living in their own home and community as they age; however this is dependent upon available services and social support. In Australia about two thirds of people will age at home. The Australian Government provides home care packages to support ageing in place yet in rural areas not all services are available. The lack of employment opportunities in rural areas often results in family residing at a distance reducing available social support. This study aims to evaluate informal social support and its influence on ageing in place amongst older people in three Australian rural communities in Australia. (2) Methods: A multiple embedded case study was undertaken in three diverse rural communities. Eleven older rural residents ageing in place aged 65+ were interviewed about their ageing experience and plans for their future in the light of available social support along with 15 members of their social networks. Social networks were then visually depicted with the use of ecomaps and network members were interviewed. (3) Results show that kin and non-kin social networks support ageing in place however ageing is a time of change and reflection. (4) Conclusions: There is a need for more discussion within these networks when it comes to future planning.
Dehydration and Malnutrition in Residential Care: Recommendations for Strategies for Improving Practice Derived from a Scoping Review of Existing Policies and Guidelines

Preventing malnutrition and dehydration in older care home residents is a complex task, with both conditions remaining prevalent, despite numerous guidelines spanning several decades. This policy-mapping scoping review used snowballing search methods to locate publicly-available policies, reports and best practice guidelines relating to hydration and nutrition in UK residential care homes, to describe the existing knowledge base and pinpoint gaps in practice, interpretation and further investigation. The findings were synthesised narratively to identify solutions. Strategies for improvements to nutritional and hydration care include the development of age and population-specific nutrient and fluid intake guidelines, statutory regulation, contractual obligations for commissioners, appropriate menu-planning, the implementation and auditing of care, acknowledgment of residents’ eating and drinking experiences, effective screening, monitoring and treatment and staff training. The considerable body of existing knowledge is failing to influence practice, relating to translational issues of implementing knowledge into care at the point of delivery, and this is where future research and actions should focus.
Recovering from Cystectomy: Patient Perspectives

Background: Bladder cancer patients who undergo cystectomy and urinary diversion face functional and quality-of-life challenges. Little is known about these patients’ experiences during decision-making, surgery, and recovery, or how they vary by treatment setting. Objective: To learn about patients’ experiences with treatment choice, surgical care, and recovery across health settings. Understanding patient experiences is essential to closing care gaps and developing patient-reported measures. Methods: We conducted focus groups with cystectomy patients and family caregivers at a large comprehensive health care system (N = 32 patients) and an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center (N = 25 patients and 5 caregivers). Using standard qualitative methods, we identified themes that are not well-represented in existing research. Results: Across both systems, patients described variable experiences in decision-making about their cystectomy and urinary diversion. Some felt overwhelmed by information; others felt poorly informed. Many found self-care equipment challenging; many felt they knew little about what to expect regarding chemotherapy, recovery, and transitioning home. At times, health care personnel could not help manage patients’ ostomies or catheterization equipment. Our study also contributes a grounded theoretical framework for describing meaningful domains of patient experience with cystectomy and urinary diversion. We identified a common trajectory that includes decision-making, surgery and post-operative recovery, mastery of self-care, and reintegration. Conclusions: Patients with radical cystectomy and urinary diversion report a wide variety of experiences not captured by quantitative measures. These findings demonstrate that many cystectomy patients could benefit from additional post-operative support. We offer a framework to measure patient-centered domains in future research.
MicroRNAome of Porcine Conceptuses and Trophoblasts: Expression Profile of microRNAs and Their Potential to Regulate Genes Crucial for Establishment of Pregnancy1

ABSTRACT Tightly coordinated, reciprocal embryo-maternal interactions affect gene expression during early pregnancy. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as new players in the fine tuning of embryo development and implantation in mammals via posttranscriptional gene regulation mechanisms. Here, we integrated transcriptomic and computational approaches to profile miRNAs and miRNA synthesis and transport-related genes at different developmental stages of porcine conceptuses and trophoblast during early pregnancy in the pig. Using semiquantitative RT-PCR, we examined mRNA levels of 10 genes encoding proteins involved in miRNA synthesis and transport: DROSHA, DGCR8, XPO5, DICER1, TARBP2, TNRC6A, AGO1, AGO2, AGO3, and AGO4. Custom, multispecies microarrays were used to profile miRNAs. Prediction algorithms of miRNA-mRNA interactions allowed identification of target transcripts for the analyzed miRNAs. These included VEGF, LIF, PTGS2, and IL-6R, known to be crucial components of embryo-maternal interactions in the pig. Two selected miRNAs, miR-26a and miR-125b, were tested for the presence in the extracellular vesicles isolated from uterine luminal flushings during pregnancy. Results of in vitro study demonstrated that miRNAs, such as miR-125b, can regulate expression of genes crucial for embryo development and implantation in porcine endometrial luminal epithelial cells. For the first time, expression profiles of miRNAs and related genes in porcine conceptuses and trophoblast during maternal recognition of pregnancy and embryo implantation in the pig were described. Altogether, our results indicate potential roles of these small, noncoding RNAs in the early development of embryos and embryo-maternal cross-talk during early pregnancy in the pig.