Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Coelomic epithelium‐derived cells in visceral morphogenesis

Coelomic cavities of vertebrates are lined by a mesothelium which develops from the lateral plate mesoderm. During development, the coelomic epithelium is a highly active cell layer, which locally is able to supply mesenchymal cells that contribute to the mesodermal elements of many organs and provide signals which are necessary for their development. The relevance of this process of mesenchymal cell supply to the developing organs is becoming clearer because genetic lineage tracing techniques have been developed in recent years. Body wall, heart, liver, lungs, gonads, and gastrointestinal tract are populated by cells derived from the coelomic epithelium which contribute to their connective and vascular tissues, and sometimes to specialized cell types such as the stellate cells of the liver, the Cajal interstitial cells of the gut or the Sertoli cells of the testicle. In this review we collect information about the contribution of coelomic epithelium derived cells to visceral development, their developmental fates and signaling functions. The common features displayed by all these processes suggest that the epithelial–mesenchymal transition of the embryonic coelomic epithelium is an underestimated but key event of vertebrate development, and probably it is shared by all the coelomate metazoans. Developmental Dynamics 245:307–322, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Absence of Na+/K+/2Cl− cotransporter activity in corneal endothelial cell plasma membrane vesicles

There are various models to describe coupling between transmembrane Na− flux and transendothelial net HCO−3 flux in the cornea, including a direct coupling via a Na+/HCO−3 cotransporter or an indirect coupling utilizing a Na+/K+/2Cl− cotransporter further coupled to a Cl−/HCO−3 exchanger. In this study we investigate the presence of Na+/K+/2Cl− cotransporter activity by using corneal endothelial cell plasma membrane vesicles. By controlling the external and internal compartments of the vesicles we were able to monitor Na+ movement across the membranes.
The content of copper and zinc in human ulcered atherosclerotic plaque

INTRODUCTION: Copper and zinc have significant antiatherogenic effect influencing activity of antioxidant enzymes (glutathione-peroxidase and superoxide-dismutase), mechanism of apoptosis and other mechanisms. Few studies showed increased copper and zinc concentration in atherosclerotic plaque in comparison to normal vascular tissue. AIM: The aim of the study was to compare copper and zinc concentrations in carotid artery tissue without significant atherosclerotic changes and human ulcered atherosclerotic plaque. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Study was conducted on 66 patients. Carotid endarterectomy due to the significant carotid atherosclerotic changes with cerebrovascular disorders was performed in 54 patients (81.8%). Control group consisted of 12 patients (18.2%) without carotid atherosclerotic changes operated due to the symptomatic kinking and coiling of carotid artery. Operated group consisted of 38 men (62.96%) and 16 women (37.04%). Control group had the same number of patients: six men (50%) and six women (50%). Preoperatively, all patients were examined by vascular surgeon, neurologist and cardiologist. Duplex sonography of carotid and vertebral arteries was performed by Aloca DSD 630 ultrasound with mechanical and linear transducer 7.7 MHz. Indication for surgical treatment was obtained according to non-invasive diagnostic protocol and neurological symptoms. Copper and zinc concentration in human ulcered atherosclerotic plaque and carotid artery segment were estimated by spectrophotometry (Varian AA-5). RESULTS: Average age of our patients was 59.8+/-8.1 years. For males average age was 76.1+/-9.8 years. And for females 42.4+/-5.8 years. In group with carotid endarterectomy female patients were significantly younger than male patients (p<0.01). In group with carotid endarterectomy clinically determined neurological disorders were found in 47 patients (87.03%)--35 male (74.47%) and 12 female patients (25.53%). Regarding risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, no significant difference among groups was found for blood pressure and smoking. However, patients with carotid endarterectomy had significantly more diabetes mellitus (p<0.05), obesity (p<0.01) and hypercholesterolemia (p<0.01). DISCUSSION: Our study showed significantly lower total copper value in the group with human ulcered atherosclerotic plaque in comparison with the control group (p<0.05). We also found significantly lower total zinc value in the group with human ulcered atherosclerotic plaque in comparison with the control group (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: Our study revealed significant difference in copper and zinc content between human ulcered atherosclerotic plaque and normal carotid tissue. Closer correlation of these oligoelements and endothelial dysfunction will be established in future investigations.
Study of Poroscopy Among South Indian Population *

Abstract: Poroscopy is the term applied to a specialized study of pore structure found on papillary ridges of skin as a means of identification. It comes under level 3 detail of identification and hence is more reliable and accurate. The goal of this study is to estimate the importance of poroscopy for identification of individuals and to determine the gender based on frequency, type, and shape of pores. Left plain thumb prints of 200 individuals (100 men and 100 women) aged between 18 and 60 belonging to South Indian population were observed. The results have shown that women tend to have a significantly higher frequency of pores than men. Number of pores ≤ 8 pores/25 mm2 is more likely to be of male origin and ≥9 pores/25 mm2 is more likely to be of female origin. There was no significant sex difference based on type and shape of pores.
Wnt is necessary for mesenchymal to epithelial transition in colorectal cancer cells

Background: Metastasis underlies most colorectal cancer mortality. Cancer cells spread through the body as single cells or small clusters of cells that have an invasive, mesenchymal, nonproliferative phenotype. At the secondary site, they revert to a proliferative “tumor constructing” epithelial phenotype to rebuild a tumor. We previously developed a unique in vitro three‐dimensional model, called LIM1863‐Mph, which faithfully recapitulates these reversible transitions that underpin colorectal cancer metastasis. Wnt signaling plays a key role in these transitions and is initiated by the coupling of extracellular Wnt to Frizzled (FZD). Using the LIM1863‐Mph model system we demonstrated that the Wnt receptor FZD7 is necessary for mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET). Here we investigate the role of Wnt in MET. Results: Wnt secretion is dependent on palmitoylation by Porcupine (PORC). A PORC inhibitor (IWP2) that prevents Wnt secretion, blocked the epithelial transition of mesenchymal LIM1863‐Mph cells. Wnt gene array analysis identified several Wnts that are upregulated in epithelial compared with mesenchymal LIM1863‐Mph cells, suggesting these ligands in MET. Wnt2B was the most abundant differentially expressed Wnt gene. Indeed, recombinant Wnt2B could overcome the IWP2‐mediated block in epithelial transition of mesenchymal LIM1863‐Mph cells. Conclusions: Wnt2B co‐operates with Frizzled7 to mediate MET in colorectal cancer. Developmental Dynamics 247:521–530, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transmission electron microscopy of zebrafish spinal motor nerve roots

Background: Spinal motor nerves are essential for relaying information between the central and peripheral nervous systems. Perturbations to cell types that comprise these nerves may impair rapid and efficient transmission of action potentials and alter nerve function. Identifying ultrastructural changes resulting from defects to these cellular components via transmission electron microscopy (TEM) can provide valuable insight into nerve function and disease. However, efficiently locating spinal motor nerves in adult zebrafish for TEM is challenging and time‐consuming. Because of this, we developed a protocol that allows us to quickly and precisely locate spinal motor nerve roots in adult zebrafish for TEM processing. Results: Following fixation, a transverse slab of adult zebrafish dissected from the trunk region was mounted in embedding media, sectioned, and secondary fixation with osmium tetroxide performed. Transverse sections containing motor nerves were selected for TEM ultrathin sectioning and imaging. Conclusions: We developed an efficient protocol for locating spinal motor nerves in adult zebrafish to allow for ultrastructural characterization. Although our work focuses on spinal motor nerves, this protocol may be useful for efficiently identifying other discrete, repeated structures within the developing and mature nervous system that are difficult to find via traditional, whole organism TEM processing. Developmental Dynamics 246:956–962, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Applicability of DNA Analysis on Adhesive Tape in Forensic Casework

Abstract: Adhesive tape is commonly used in crimes and is often the subject of forensic evaluation. DNA analysis of adhesive tape can provide DNA profiles of suspects. The object of this study was to evaluate the applicability of DNA analysis on adhesive tape samples in forensic casework. We retrospectively reviewed all cases involving adhesive tape or similar items received by our institute for DNA analysis during the past 11 years. From 100 forensic cases reviewed, 150 adhesive tape samples were examined. A total of 98 DNA profiles were obtained from these samples. Sixty‐two of the profiles provided feasible case‐relevant information. In conclusion, DNA profiling of adhesive tape samples can be useful in a variety of forensic cases.
Immunization of Human Beings with Oral Lactobacilli

A possible relationship between intradermal vaccination of human beings with heat-killed oral lactobacilli and an effect on the average numbers of lactobacilli in the saliva was described in a preliminary report by Canby and Bernier (1). Repeated intradermal vaccination led to an increase in the blood agglutinin titers for the strains of lactobacilli used in the vaccines. Comparisons of the average salivary counts for lactobacilli, before and after vaccinations, indicated that there had been a reduction of the averages in 19 out of 20 persons after vaccination. The authors proposed that the lactobacilli in the saliva had been affected by a substance, having growth inhibitory properties, which was stimulated by vaccination. This report presents the findings in a similar type of study. Our purpose was to determine whether any increase in the blood agglutinin titers, for the strains in the vaccines, could be associated with a decrease in the salivary counts for lactobacilli.
Head-to-head comparison of cardiac troponin T and troponin I in patients without acute coronary syndrome: a systematic review

Abstract Background: Cardiac-specific troponin T (cTnT) and troponin I (cTnI) are considered diagnostically equal in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The aim of this systematic review was to compare the prevalence and prognostic strength of elevations of cTnT and cTnI in patients with other conditions than ACS. Methods: A systemic review was conducted in concordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The studies were identified by searching PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register, from May to August 2016. Studies measuring both cTnT and cTnI in populations without ACS were eligible. Results: Twenty-nine studies were included (n = 25,859). Seventeen studies reported on prognostic information with follow-up time ranging for 30 d–5 years. Elevation above the 99th percentile (reference value for a healthy population) in non-ACS population was reported to be 0–39% for cTnI and 40–100% for cTnT. Elevation of cTnT tends to be a superior predictor for all-cause mortality and elevation of cTnI tends to be a superior predictor for cardiovascular related mortality. Discussion: In the absence of ACS, elevation of cTnT is more frequent than elevation of cTnI. Conclusion: Both cTnT and cTnI elevations have important prognostic information regarding morbidity, cardiac mortality and all-cause mortality.
Comparative study of nano and bulk Fe3O4 induced oxidative stress in Wistar rats

Abstract Context: Magnetic nanomaterials (Fe3O4 NMs) have become novel tools with multiple biological and medical applications because of their biocompatibility. However, adverse health effects of these NMs are of great interest to learn. Objective: This study was designed to assess the size and dose-dependent effects of Fe3O4 NMs and its bulk on oxidative stress biomarkers after post–subacute treatment in female Wistar rats. Methods: Rats were daily administered with 30, 300 and 1000 mg/kg b.w. doses for 28 d of Fe3O4 NMs and its bulk for biodistribution and histopathological studies. Results: Fe3O4 NMs treatment caused significant increase in lipid peroxidation levels of treated rats. It was also observed that the NM treatment elicited significant changes in enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione-S-transferase in treated rat organs with major reduction in glutathione content. Metal content analysis revealed that tissue deposition of NM in the organs was higher when compared to bulk and caused histological changes in liver. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that for same dose, NM showed higher bioaccumulation, oxidative stress and tissue damage than its bulk. The difference in toxic effect of Fe3O4 nano and bulk could be related to their altered physicochemical properties.
BODY SIZES OF POIKILOTHERM VERTEBRATES AT DIFFERENT LATITUDES

In the course of collecting freshwater fish both in a tropical region (Malaysia) and in a temperate region (Canada), I was struck by the seemingly higher proportion of small species in the hot than in the cold climate. An examination of recorded fish sizes from the two areas confirmed this impression. The same general trend was revealed when freshwater fish in many tropical regions were compared with those in many cold regions. The search' for global trends in body size with latitude was then extended to other poikilotherm vertebrate groups. Most previous discussions of variation in body size with latitude have centered around Bergmann's rule, which concerns a somewhat different phenomenon from that to be considered here. Bergmann's rule states that geographic races of a species are usually larger in cooler than in warmer climates. The rule concerns variation only within a species, or at most between series of closely related species. It is empirical and implies no physiological theory (Mayr, 1956), although arguments concerning its possibly physiological basis, particularly with respect to temperature control, have not been lacking (Scholander, 1956). Initially the rule was applied only to homeotherms, but recently Ray (1960) concluded from both experimental and field observations that the rule (and also Allen's rule) applied equally to many poikilotherms. In contrast, the present study examines whether a trend towards larger sizes in cool regions may be found when comparisons are made between whole faunas of poikilotherm vertebrates, including quite un-
MONTHLY FREQUENCY CHANGES OF DROSOPHILA PSEUDOOBSCURA THIRD CHROMOSOME GENE ARRANGEMENTS IN A CALIFORNIA LOCALITY

Evolutionary changes in the frequencies of third chromosome gene arrangements of natural populations of Drosophila pseudoobscura have been widely documented since the initial discovery of this polymorphism by Dobzhansky and Sturtevant (1938). In the American Southwest, these changes encompass long term trends such as the marked increase in the frequency of the Pikes Peak arrangement in California from 1940 to 1957 (Dobzhansky, 1958) as well as the shorter seasonal changes noted in some localities of the San Jacinto Mountains (Dobzhansky, 1947; Epling et al., 1953) and Yosemite (Dobzhansky, 1956). In each case, the selective factors responsible for these frequency changes have not yet been identified. As a further study of this problem, the present observations were begun in order to gather as much data as possible about the frequencies of third chromosome gene arrangements and their climatological associations in a particular California locality. This locality, called Strawberry Canyon, is on the University of California campus at Berkeley, and contains a population of D. pseudoobscura that can be sampled continuously throughout the entire year. During the 28-month sampling period reported in this paper, the frequencies of certain third chromosome gene arrangements at Strawberry Canyon are shown to be uniquely different from those at other sampled California localities and follow somewhat different seasonal changes. The adaptive significance of these unusual frequencies is still unknown although it is undoubtedly related to the unique environment of the area. THE LOCALITY AND COLLECTIONS
Inducible cardiomyocyte‐specific gene disruption directed by the rat Tnnt2 promoter in the mouse

We developed a conditional and inducible gene knockout methodology that allows effective gene deletion in mouse cardiomyocytes. This transgenic mouse line was generated by coinjection of two transgenes, a “reverse” tetracycline‐controlled transactivator (rtTA) directed by a rat cardiac troponin T (Tnnt2) promoter and a Cre recombinase driven by a tetracycline‐responsive promoter (TetO). Here, Tnnt2‐rtTA activated TetO‐Cre expression takes place in cardiomyocytes following doxycycline treatment. Using two different mouse Cre reporter lines, we demonstrated that expression of Cre recombinase was specifically and robustly induced in the cardiomyocytes of embryonic or adult hearts following doxycycline induction, thus, allowing cardiomyocyte‐specific gene disruption and lineage tracing. We also showed that rtTA expression and doxycycline treatment did not compromise cardiac function. These features make the Tnnt2‐rtTA;TetO‐Cre transgenic line a valuable genetic tool for analysis of spatiotemporal gene function and cardiomyocyte lineage tracing during developmental and postnatal periods. genesis 48:63–72, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Emotional and cognitive health correlates of leisure activities in older Latino and Caucasian women

This study examined differences in the frequency of leisure activity participation and relationships to depressive symptom burden and cognition in Latino and Caucasian women. Cross-sectional data were obtained from a demographically matched subsample of Latino and Caucasian (n = 113 each) postmenopausal women (age ≥60 years), interviewed in 2004–2006 for a multiethnic cohort study of successful aging in San Diego County. Frequencies of engagement in 16 leisure activities and associations between objective cognitive performance and depressive symptom burden by ethnicity were identified using bivariate and linear regression, adjusted for physical functioning and demographic covariates. Compared to Caucasian women, Latinas were significantly more likely to be caregivers and used computers less often. Engaging in organized social activity was associated with fewer depressive symptoms in both groups. Listening to the radio was positively correlated with lower depressive symptom burden for Latinas and better cognitive functioning in Caucasians. Cognitive functioning was better in Latinas who read and did puzzles. Housework was negatively associated with Latinas' emotional health and Caucasians' cognitive functioning. Latino and Caucasian women participate in different patterns of leisure activities. Additionally, ethnicity significantly affects the relationship between leisure activities and both emotional and cognitive health.
Nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis following sexual assault in industrialized low-HIV-prevalence countries: A review

Although available for over a decade, use of nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis (nPEP) remains controversial in the United States. There are concerns over sexual assault survivors' adherence, or lack thereof, leading to increased costs without an appreciable decrease in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission. This review examines and synthesizes the available literature from the past 10 years to determine the true rates of provision and adherence to nPEP regimens in sexual assault survivors in low HIV prevalence, industrialized nations. Findings suggest that further prospective research is necessary to better understand the process of post-assault nPEP evaluation and subsequent follow-up and adherence.
HIV and Depression – a systematic review of interventions

HIV-positive individuals are more likely to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder than HIV-negative individuals. Depression can precede diagnosis and be associated with risk factors for infection. The experience of illness can also exacerbate depressive episodes and depression can be a side effect to treatment. Asystematic understanding of which interventions have been tested in and are effective with HIV-seropositive individuals is needed. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of evaluated interventions related to HIV and depression and provide some insight on questions of prevalence and measurement. Standard systematic research methods were used to gather quality published papers on HIV and depression. From the search, 1015 articles were generated and hand searched resulting in 90 studies meeting adequacy inclusion criteria for analysis. Of these, 67 (74.4%) were implemented in North America (the US and Canada) and 14 (15.5%) in Europe, with little representation from Africa, Asia and South America. Sixty-five (65.5%) studies recruited only men or mostly men, of which 31 (35%) recruited gay or bisexual men. Prevalence rates of depression ranged from 0 to 80%; measures were diverse and rarely adopted the same cut-off points. Twenty-one standardized instruments were used to measure depression. Ninety-nine interventions were investigated. The interventions were diverse and could broadly be categorized into psychological, psychotropic, psychosocial, physical, HIV-specific health psychology interventions and HIV treatment-related interventions. Psychological interventions were particularly effective and in particular interventions that incorporated a cognitive-behavioural component. Psychotropic and HIV-specific health psychology interventions were generally effective. Evidence is not clear-cut regarding the effectiveness of physical therapies and psychosocial interventions were generally ineffective. Interventions that investigated the effects of treatments for HIV and HIV-associated conditions on depression generally found that these treatments did not increase but often decreased depression. Interventions are both effective and available, although further research into enhancing efficacy would be valuable. Depression needs to be routinely logged in those with HIV infection during the course of their disease. Specific data on women, young people, heterosexual men, drug users and those indiverse geographic areas are needed. Measurement of depression needs to be harmonized and management into care protocols incorporated.