Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Annexin A2 acts as an adherent molecule under the regulation of steroids during embryo implantation.

We previously showed that annexin A2 was transiently expressed at the embryo-uterine luminal epithelium interface during the window of implantation, and was involved in mouse embryo implantation. At the same time, annexin A2 was reported to be upregulated in human receptive endometrium, which was critical for embryo attachment as an intracellular molecule. Here, we identified annexin A2 as a membrane bound molecule on human endometrial epithelial cells and trophoblast cells, and the outer surface membrane bound annexin A2 was involved in human embryo attachment. In addition, physiological levels of estrogen and progesterone increased the expression of overall annexin A2 as well as that in the extracellular surface membrane protein fraction in human endometrial cells. Furthermore, p11 (or S100A10, a member of the S100 EF-hand family protein, molecular weight 11 kDa) was involved in the translocation of annexin A2 to the outer surface membrane of endometrial epithelial cells without affecting its overall expression. Finally, the surface relocation of annexin A2 was also dependent on cell-cell contact and calcium binding. A better understanding of the function and regulation of annexin A2 in human endometrium may help us to identify a potential therapeutic target for subfertile and infertile patients.
Transmembrane protein 166 and its significance.

Transmembrane protein 166 (TMEM166) is a lysosomal/endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated protein found in different species where it functions as a regulator of programmed cell death through autophagy and apoptosis. It is expressed in a variety of normal tissues and organs, and it is involved in a wide variety of physiological and pathological processes, including cancers, infection, autoimmune diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Previous studies indicated that TMEM166 is associated with autophagosomal membrane development. TMEM166 can cause lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP) leading to the release of proteolytic enzymes, e.g., cathepsins, that may cause potential mitochondrial membrane damage, which triggers several autophagic and apoptotic events. A low level of TMEM166 expression is also found in tumors, while high level of TMEM166 is found in brain ischemia. In addition, loss of TMEM166 leads to impaired NSC selfrenewal and differentiation along with a decrease in autophagy. These findings offer a comprehensive understanding of the pathways involved in the role of TMEM166 in programmed cell death and treatment of various diseases.
Impact of population tobacco control interventions on socioeconomic inequalities in smoking: a systematic review and appraisal of future research directions

Background While price increases and targeted cessation support have been found to reduce inequalities in smoking by socioeconomic status (SES), evidence on other measures is mixed. We aimed to update the most recent (2014) previous review by identifying and appraising evidence published since 2013 on the equity impact of population tobacco control measures. Methods Systematic searching of 10 electronic databases and hand-searching of four key journals identified 68 primary research articles published since 2013 that sought to examine the equity impact of population tobacco control measures in high-income countries with a negative socioeconomic gradient in smoking. Reported equity impacts were categorised as positive (greater impact among lower SES), neutral (no difference by SES), negative (greater impact among higher SES) or mixed/unclear. Results There was substantial growth in research seeking to evaluate the equity impact of tobacco control interventions, but the majority of new studies showed mixed/unclear results. Findings for price increases and targeted cessation support continue to suggest an equity-positive impact, but limitations in the available evidence make further assessment difficult. Substantial differences in the context, scale and implementation of tobacco control policies make straightforward comparison of findings from the previous 2014 and current reviews problematic. Conclusion Researchers need to adopt more sophisticated, multidisciplinary approaches in evaluating the equity impact of tobacco control measures—developing robust measures of equity effect and using frameworks that take account of context, existing systems/processes and the likely mechanisms of action. Socioeconomic differences in intervention impact within low-income and middle-income countries require evaluation.
Association of Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I Related Chain A/B Positive Microparticles with Acute Myocardial Infarction and Disease Severity

Background: Various cell types undergo activation and stress during atherosclerosis resulting in the development of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in coronary artery disease (CAD). Major histocompatibility complex class I related chain A and B (MICA/B) can be expressed on the surface of activated and stressed cells and released into blood circulation in several forms including microparticles (MICA/B+ MPs) from various cell types. We aimed to investigate the association of these MICA/B+ MPs with the presence of AMI. Fifty-one AMI and 46 age-matched control subjects were recruited. Methods: Levels of MICA/B+ MPs derived from various parent cells including endothelial cells, platelets, monocytes, neutrophils, and T lymphocytes were determined by flow cytometry. Results: The levels and proportion of MICA/B+ MPs from all types of cell origin were significantly increased in AMI patients compared to those of the controls. A multivariate regression model showed an independent association between MICA/B+ MPs and AMI (OR = 11.6; 95% CI = 2.8, 47.3). Interestingly, based on the disease severity, we found that the levels of MICA/B+ MPs were significantly elevated in the ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) compared to the non-STEMI (NSTEMI) patients. Moreover, an independent association of MICA/B+ MPs with the occurrence of STEMI was also demonstrated (OR = 4.1; 95% CI = 1.5, 16.7). Conclusions: These results suggest that MICA/B+ MPs are associated with AMI and disease severity. They may act as mediators contributing to the pathological process of AMI. Alternatively, they are the results of various cell activations contributing to AMI.
New Rebbachisaurid (Sauropoda, Diplodocoidea) Cranial Remains from the Cretaceous oF Patagonia, Argentina, and the First Endocranial Description for a South American Representative of the Clade

ABSTRACT Here we report new rebbachisaurid material (MMCh-PV 71) recovered from the Candeleros Formation (Cenomanian) of northwest Patagonia, Argentina. The cranial remains consist of a partial braincase and a right quadrate. Fractures in the braincase exposed the endocranial cavity, allowing the first study of the brain and inner ear morphologies of a South American rebbachisaurid. The braincase and cranial endocast both exhibit traits similar to those observed in the Cretaceous rebbachisaurs Nigersaurus from Africa and Limaysaurus from Argentina, although in terms of osteology, the South American taxa are highly similar. The endocast of MMCh-PV 71 is more similar to that of Nigersaurus than to those of Diplodocus and Camarasaurus, suggesting some probable rebbachisaurid features such as the noteworthy presence of the flocculus. The overall morphology of the quadrate shows similarities with Limaysaurus and Nigersaurus. However, differences such as the broader posterior fossa and the shape and orientation of the head and the pterygoid process indicate that the new specimen could represent a distinct taxon.
Child feeding in rural northern Ghana: Carer's perceptions of food and their children's diets

Abstract A child's diet should be composed of appropriate nutrients to achieve optimal nutritional status, and though there is a substantial evidence base for child feeding recommendations, developing countries continue to face challenges regarding optimal child feeding. This paper describes an ethnographic study undertaken in rural northern Ghana to explore community perceptions of what ‘counts’ as food for children and the impact this had on the nutrients they received. Fifteen households with children under 5 years were purposively selected. In‐depth interviews were held with 25 mothers, 7 fathers and 8 grandparents within these households as well as 2 diviners. Participant observations were also undertaken. Findings show that satiety rather than nutrition was the key consideration in adult choices about a child's diet. The community regarded carbohydrate‐based meals as food, but considered protein, vitamins and mineral‐based foods as nonessential elements of a child's diet, and important sources of these nutrients were regarded as treats.
The allometry of food intake in grazing ruminants

(1) A simulation model of grazing mechanics in ruminants shows that, due to the allometric relations of bite size and metabolic requirements to body size, small animals are able to subsist on shorter swards than large animals. (2) The density of nutrients in the grazed horizon of the modelled swards markedly affected the ability of animals of a given body size to satisfy their energy requirements. (3) By extension, the allometric relationships would be expected to apply in selective grazing and browsing species in their choice of food items of different size and nutrient content. (4) The results support the argument that sexual segregation and habitat choice of dimorphic species is an effect of scramble competition for limited resources, the males thus being excluded from mutually preferred swards. (5) The model provides an explanation for two interspecific phenomena amongst grazers: grazing succession and grazing facilitation.
Leg heat therapy improves perceived physical function but does not enhance walking capacity or vascular function in patients with peripheral artery disease.

A single session of leg heat therapy (HT) has been shown to elicit increases in leg blood flow and reduce blood pressure (BP) and the circulating levels of endothelin-1 (ET-1) in patients with symptomatic peripheral artery disease (PAD). We assessed whether 6 weeks of supervised leg HT (3 times/wk) using water-circulating trousers perfused with water at 48ºC improved 6-minute walk distance in people with PAD, compared to a sham treatment. Secondary outcomes included the assessment of leg vascular function, BP, quality of life and the serum ET-1 and nitrite plus nitrate (NOx) levels. Of thirty-two PAD patients randomized, thirty (age: 68±8 yrs; ankle-brachial index (ABI): 0.6±0.1) completed the 3 and 6-week follow ups. Participants completed 98.7% of the treatment sessions. When compared to the sham treatment, exposure to HT did not improve 6-minute walk distance, BP, popliteal artery reactive hyperemia, cutaneous microvascular reactivity, resting ABI or the serum NOx levels. The change from baseline to 6 weeks in scores of the physical functioning subscale of the 36-item Short Form Health Survey was significantly higher in the HT group (Control: -6.9±10 versus HT: 6.8±15; 95% confidence interval: 2.5-24.3, p=0.017). Similarly, the change in ET-1 levels after 6 weeks was different between groups, with the HT group experiencing a 0.4 decrease (95% confidence interval: -0.8,-0.0, p=0.03). These preliminary results indicate that leg HT may improve perceived physical function in symptomatic PAD patients. Additional, larger studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine the optimal treatment regimen for symptomatic PAD patients.
Durum wheat quality evaluation: influence of genotype and environment

Protein content and gluten quality (alveograph W) were determined for 21 durum wheat cultivars grown in several locations in Italy from 1990 to 1993. Cultivars and sites were not the same in all years, butthree cultivars that are considered as standards were used to link all analyzed data. Each site-year combination constituted an environment. The effect of genotype, environment, and their interaction on protein content and alveograph W, which are the most important variables in predicting pasta cooking quality, were studied. Protein content was essentially determined by additive effects of environment, whereas alveograph W appeared more influenced by additive effects of genotype. Genotype-environment (GE) interaction for both the variables was significant but small in magnitude when compared with the additive effects of genotype and environment. The majority of cultivars appeared stable; coefficient of regression was equal to one, and deviation from regression mean square was negligible. The large additive effects of environment and genotype and the small GE interaction provide efficiency in the selection of new lines grown in only one environment and allow the average quality of a cultivar to be established by compositing samples over many locations
Modular Chitosan-Based Adsorbents for Tunable Uptake of Sulfate from Water

The context of this study responds to the need for sorbent technology development to address the controlled removal of inorganic sulfate (SO42−) from saline water and the promising potential of chitosan as a carrier system for organosulfates in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. This study aims to address the controlled removal of sulfate using chitosan as a sustainable biopolymer platform, where a modular synthetic approach was used for chitosan bead preparation that displays tunable sulfate uptake. The beads were prepared via phase-inversion synthesis, followed by cross-linking with glutaraldehyde, and impregnation of Ca2+ ions. The sulfate adsorption properties of the beads were studied at pH 5 and variable sulfate levels (50–1000 ppm), where beads with low cross-linking showed moderate sulfate uptake (35 mg/g), while cross-linked beads imbibed with Ca2+ had greater sulfate adsorption (140 mg/g). Bead stability, adsorption properties, and the point-of-zero charge (PZC) from 6.5 to 6.8 were found to depend on the cross-linking ratio and the presence of Ca2+. The beads were regenerated over multiple adsorption-desorption cycles to demonstrate the favorable uptake properties and bead stability. This study contributes to the development of chitosan-based adsorbent technology via a modular materials design strategy for the controlled removal of sulfate. The results of this study are relevant to diverse pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications that range from the controlled removal of dextran sulfate from water to the controlled release of chondroitin sulfate.
What’s in a Click? The Efficacy of Conditioned Reinforcement in Applied Animal Training: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Simple Summary Conditioned reinforcement, for example, clicker training, has become increasingly popular in recent decades. Hence, questions about the effectiveness of the conditioned reinforcer have become prominent in the animal training arena. This article summarizes the scientific literature on conditioned reinforcement in applied animal training settings (e.g., homes). It was found that dogs and horses were the most frequently studied animals. Clickers and food were the most often used training stimuli. Effect size analysis found a medium effect of clicker training. The literature reviewed here shows that conditioned reinforcement is an effective approach to change animal behavior; however, sizable information potentially related to its effectiveness was not clearly reported in the studies (e.g., food preferences). Although this review fills in a gap in the literature, it also points to the need for more research to further the understanding of conditioned reinforcement phenomena. Abstract A conditioned reinforcer is a stimulus that acquired its effectiveness to increase and maintain a target behavior on the basis of the individual’s history—e.g., pairings with other reinforcers. This systematic review synthesized findings on conditioned reinforcement in the applied animal training field. Thirty-four studies were included in the review and six studies were eligible for a meta-analysis on the effectiveness of behavioral interventions that implemented conditioned reinforcement (e.g., clicks, spoken word, or whistles paired with food). The majority of studies investigated conditioned reinforcement with dogs (47%, n = 16) and horses (30%, n = 10) implementing click–food pairings. All other species (cats, cattle, fish, goats, and monkeys) were equally distributed across types of conditioned (e.g., clicker or spoken word) and unconditioned reinforcers (e.g., food, water, or tactile). A meta-analysis on the effectiveness of conditioned reinforcement in behavioral interventions found a medium summary effect size (Tau-U 0.77; CI95% = [0.53, 0.89]), when comparing baseline, where no training was done, and treatment levels. Moderators of conditioned reinforcement effectiveness were species (e.g., horses) and research design (e.g., multiple-baseline designs). The small number of intervention-focused studies available limits the present findings and highlights the need for more systematic research into the effectiveness of conditioned reinforcement across species.
Author's Reply: Respecting Dr. Everard

I am pleased when somebody actually reads an editorial that I have written, so imagine my delight when my friend, Mark Everard, reads not one but two of my editorials and is inspired to comment. I believe that I can summarize his comments as follows: Rubin was inconsistent in accepting the role of chronic bacterial infection in the pathogenesis of the middle lobe syndrome but not in the pathogenesis childhood cough and this is due to his misdirected attention diagnosing asthma to the exclusion of recognizing other causes of chronic lung disease in childhood. Dr. Everard then develops the hypothesis that we wait too long to diagnose and treat chronic bacterial bronchitis and too often we recognize the effects of bacteria only after bronchiectasis has developed. Paradoxically, my colleagues at Wake Forest University are inclined to believe that I am unable to recognize the diagnosis of asthma because I spend far more time discontinuing inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators than I do starting these drugs. I think many pediatric pulmonologists have a similar experience because in a referral practices, by the time children see us they have already received adequate and in some cases excessive therapy for asthma and they are being sent to us for evaluation because they have not responded to this therapy. More to the point, I tend to see the editorials that Dr. Everard refers to as being part of a recent trio that demonstrate the power of carefully obtained evidence to fundamentally change our approach to disease as well as a cautionary word about the risk of drawing conclusions based on studies designed to support rather than challenge an initial hypothesis. There are fundamental differences in the papers referenced by these editorials which lead to the apparent inconsistency of my response. In the manuscripts by Priftis and colleagues, they report on a very thorough evaluation of 53 children with established middle lobe syndrome and atelectasis or pulmonary infiltrate that had been present for many months. After excluding an important diagnosis such as cystic fibrosis (CF), foreign body aspiration, and tuberculosis, these authors conducted an evaluation that included a thorough assessment for asthma. This assessment included careful history, allergy skin testing, IgE levels, pulmonary function studies and methacholine challenge testing, bronchoscopy and bronchial lavage, and assessment of the response to asthma medications. They showed that although there was bronchial hyperresponsiveness to methacholine, these children did not have any manifestations of asthma by history, examination, or careful testing. Furthermore, half of these children had evidence of significant and persistent bacterial infection. While there was no significant response to inhaled corticosteroids, these children improved with the use of antibiotic therapy. The take home messages are clear.
Resolving the Taxonomic Status of Potential Biocontrol Agents Belonging to the Neglected Genus Lipolexis Förster (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Aphidiinae) with Descriptions of Six New Species †

Simple Summary Lipolexis is small but widely distributed genus across Europe and Asia. Nevertheless, its taxonomic distinctiveness was subsequently questioned by some authors who considered it as a synonym of the genus Diaeretus. Although Lipolexis is widely distributed and one species (Lipolexis oregmae Gahan) is an important biological control agent, the last taxonomic study on it was conducted more than 50 years ago. Our study employs an integrative approach (morphology and molecular analysis (COI barcode region)), to examine Lipolexis specimens that were sampled worldwide, including specimens from BOLD database. It led to the description of six new species. Each of the new species possesses clear morphological characters that distinguishes it from its congeners. Our findings suggest that two groups can be differentiated within the genus—oregmae and gracilis. Furthermore, we present a key for the identification to all known Lipolexis species of the world. Abstract Lipolexis is a small genus in the subfamily Aphidiinae represented by one species in Europe (Lipolexis gracilis Förster) and by four in Asia (Lipolexis wuyiensis Chen, L. oregmae Gahan, L. myzakkaiae Pramanik and Raychaudhuri and L. pseudoscutellaris Pramanik and Raychaudhuri). Although L. oregmae is employed in biological control programs against pest aphids, the last morphological study on the genus was completed over 50 years ago. This study employs an integrative approach (morphology and molecular analysis (COI barcode region)), to examine Lipolexis specimens that were sampled worldwide, including specimens from BOLD database. These results establish that two currently recognized species of Lipolexis (L. gracilis, L. oregmae) are actually a species complex and also reveal phylogenetic relationships within the genus. Six new species are described and a global key for the identification of Lipolexis species is provided.
LIM and SH3 protein 1 localizes to the leading edge of protruding lamellipodia and regulates axon development

The actin cytoskeleton drives cell motility and is essential for neuronal development and function. LIM and SH3 protein 1 (LASP1) is a unique actin-binding protein that is expressed in a wide range of cells including neurons, but its roles in cellular motility and neuronal development are not well understood. We report that LASP1 is expressed in rat hippocampus early in development, and this expression is maintained through adulthood. High-resolution imaging reveals that LASP1 is selectively concentrated at the leading edge of lamellipodia in migrating cells and axonal growth cones. This local enrichment of LASP1 is dynamically associated with the protrusive activity of lamellipodia, depends on the barbed ends of actin filaments, and requires both the LIM domain and the nebulin repeats of LASP1. Knockdown of LASP1 in cultured rat hippocampal neurons results in a substantial reduction in axonal outgrowth and arborization. Finally, loss of the Drosophila homologue Lasp from a subset of commissural neurons in the developing ventral nerve cord produces defasciculated axon bundles that do not reach their targets. Together, our data support a novel role for LASP1 in actin-based lamellipodial protrusion and establish LASP1 as a positive regulator of both in vitro and in vivo axon development.