Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Towards Realistic 3D Embedding via View Alignment

Recent advances in generative adversarial networks (GANs) have achieved great success in automated image composition that generates new images by embedding interested foreground objects into background images automatically. On the other hand, most existing works deal with foreground objects in two-dimensional (2D) images though foreground objects in three-dimensional (3D) models are more flexible with 360-degree view freedom. This paper presents an innovative View Alignment GAN (VA-GAN) that composes new images by embedding 3D models into 2D background images realistically and automatically. VA-GAN consists of a texture generator and a differential discriminator that are inter-connected and end-to-end trainable. The differential discriminator guides to learn geometric transformation from background images so that the composed 3D models can be aligned with the background images with realistic poses and views. The texture generator adopts a novel view encoding mechanism for generating accurate object textures for the 3D models under the estimated views. Extensive experiments over two synthesis tasks (car synthesis with KITTI and pedestrian synthesis with Cityscapes) show that VA-GAN achieves high-fidelity composition qualitatively and quantitatively as compared with state-of-the-art generation methods.
ReAD: A Regional Anomaly Detection Framework Based on Dynamic Partition

The detection of the abnormal area from urban data is a significant research problem. However, to the best of our knowledge, previous methods designed on spatio-temporal anomalies are road-based or grid-based, which usually causes the data sparsity problem and affects the detection results. In this paper, we proposed a dynamic region partition method to address the above issues. Besides, we proposed an unsupervised REgional Anomaly Detection framework (ReAD) to detect abnormal regions with arbitrary shapes by jointly considering spatial and temporal properties. Specifically, the proposed framework first generate regions via a dynamic region partition method. It keeps that observations in the same region have adjacent locations and similar non-spatial attribute readings, and could alleviate data sparsity and heterogeneity compared with the grid-based approach. Then, an anomaly metric will be calculated for each region by a regional divergence calculation method. The abnormal regions could be finally detected by a weighted approach or a wavy approach according to the different scenario. Experiments on both the simulated dataset and real-world applications demonstrate the effectiveness and practicability of the proposed framework.
Evolution of dispersal and mating systems along geographic gradients: implications for shifting ranges

Summary Dispersal affects species' ability to move or adapt in response to environmental change. Successful long-distance dispersal also requires reproduction in areas with few mates, thus mating systems, especially the capacity for self-fertilization, may influence the speed and success of range shifts. Here, we review: the theoretical predictions regarding dispersal and mating-system evolution at equilibrium, expanding and contracting range limits; the empirical support for these predictions; and how these geographic patterns may influence future range evolution. Equilibrium range limits can arise from environmental gradients in habitat quality, temporal variation or habitat heterogeneity. Dispersal has been predicted to increase or decrease towards range edges, depending on which life-history traits respond to the ecological gradient(s). In general, spatial habitat isolation selects against dispersal, whereas temporal stochasticity favours dispersal. At expanding range fronts, dispersal should increase due to spatial sorting for dispersive individuals and the benefits of colonizing vacant habitat. Dispersal evolution is likely more constrained during native range shifts than invasions. Models of expansion across environmental gradients and during climate-tracking range shifts are lacking. Little theory considers evolution at contracting range margins. We suggest that increased dispersal should be selected if there is local adaptation to climate, as dispersers from warmer areas will out-compete nondispersers no longer adapted to new climatic conditions. Dispersal increases should be more pronounced in regions where local adaptation is stronger. Self fertilization may be favoured at equilibrium, expanding or contracting range margins by providing reproductive assurance. However, this benefit depends on how inbreeding depression is influenced by genetic load, the severity of the abiotic environment, and the competitive milieu in edge populations. Models for the joint evolution of mating and dispersal in plants suggest that although selfing may evolve at range limits, it will not necessarily be associated with high dispersal. Empirical evidence to test these predictions is scarce. Geographic surveys of dispersal traits, mating-system traits and relevant selective factors are needed, especially studies of: (i) stable range limits that identify underlying environmental gradients; (ii) moving range limits that compare traits across space and time; and (iii) contracting limits that assess variation in local adaptation towards the range edge.
MicroRNA-19a Targets Fibroblast Growth Factor-Inducible Molecule 14 and Prevents Tubular Damage in Septic AKI

Fibroblast growth factor-inducible molecule 14 (Fn14) plays a principal role in triggering tubular damage during septic acute kidney injury (AKI). Here, we explore the mechanism underlying Fn14 deregulation in septic AKI. We identify Fn14 as a bona fide target of miR-19a, which directly binds to 3′ UTR of Fn14 for repression independent of cylindromatosis (CYLD), the deubiquitinase (DUB) downstream of miR-19a, and thereby antagonizes the LPS-induced tubular cell apoptosis. Genetic ablation of Fn14, but not of CYLD, abolishes the ability of miR-19a to antagonize the tubular apoptosis by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In mice, systemic delivery of miR-19a confers protection against septic AKI. Our findings implicate that miR-19a may serve as a promising therapeutic candidate in the prevention of septic AKI.
LncRNA PSMA3-AS1 Promotes Lung Cancer Growth and Invasion via Sponging MiR-4504

Background Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have close correlation with tumorigenesis. And how lncRNAs participate in lung cancer require investigation in-depth. The aim of this study was to determine the role of lncRNA PSMA3-AS1 in lung cancer progression. Methods PSMA3-AS1 expression was analyzed via qRT-PCR. Kaplan–Meier method was used to analyze survival rate based on PSMA3-AS1 value. Proliferation was measured via CCK8 and colony formation assays. Transwell assay was utilized to examine migration and invasion. Luciferase reporter assay and RNA pulldown assay were utilized to analyze the interaction between PSMA3-AS1 and miR-4504. Results PSMA3-AS1 expression was upregulated in lung cancer tissues and cell lines. PSMA3-AS1 expression was positively correlated with clinical stage and metastasis. PSMA3-AS1 overexpression predicted a poor prognosis in lung cancer patients. PSMA3-AS1 knockdown suppressed proliferation, migration and invasion of lung cancer cells. Through bioinformatics analysis, PSMA3-AS1 was predicted to sponge miR-4504. MiR-4504 expression was inhibited by PSMA3-AS1. And inhibition of miR-4504 reversed the effects of PSMA3-AS1 depletion. Conclusion PSMA3-AS1 promotes the tumorigenesis of lung cancer through inhibiting miR-4504.
LncRNA TTN-AS1 Promotes Progression of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer via Regulating miR-491-5p/ZNF503 Axis

Background Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer with high mortality worldwide. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) TTN antisense RNA1 (TTN-AS1) has been demonstrated to play a crucial role in a variety of cancers. This study was designed to investigate the function and molecular mechanism of lncRNA TTN-AS1 in NSCLC. Methods The expression levels of TTN-AS1, miR-491-5p and zinc finger protein 503 (ZNF503) were examined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) or Western blot assay, respectively. Cell viability was detected by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Cell migration and invasion were assessed by transwell assay. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins were measured using Western blot assay. The relationship between TTN-AS1, miR-491-5p and ZNF503 was predicted by starBase2.0 and confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Xenograft tumor experiment was conducted to analyze the tumor growth in vivo. Results The levels of TTN-AS1 and ZNF503 were up-regulated, while miR-491-5p expression was reduced in NSCLC tissues and cells. Knockdown of TTN-AS1 or ZNF503 suppressed cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in NSCLC cells. Overexpression of ZNF503 reversed the effect of TTN-AS1 silencing on NSCLC progression. TTN-AS1 could modulate the expression of ZNF503 via sponging miR-491-5p. Furthermore, TTN-AS1 induced tumor growth in vivo. Conclusion Inhibition of TTN-AS1 hindered cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in NSCLC cells by modulating miR-491-5p/ZNF503 axis, providing a promising biomarker for NSCLC treatment.
Efficacy and Safety of Nemonoxacin in Outpatients with Community-Acquired Pneumonia

Purpose To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 500 mg of nemonoxacin administered orally once daily to outpatients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Patients and Methods Patients with CAP who received nemonoxacin monotherapy were selected from outpatients who visited the Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine of Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University between July and December 2018. Their characteristics, pneumonia-related symptoms, treatment effects, and adverse reactions were recorded. Results In total, 337 patients with CAP were administered 500 mg of nemonoxacin orally once daily for 8.24 ± 3.73 days. Fourteen patients were lost during the follow-up period. At the end of the follow-up period, information on 323 patients (132 males and 191 females) with a median age of 52 (P25, P75: 34, 61) years was collected. On the basis of CRB-65 scores, 273 and 50 cases were classified to have low and intermediate risks, respectively. After 3 days of treatment, the symptom improvement rate was 61.3% (198 patients). Improved symptoms or cures were evident in 98.14% (317 patients) of the patients after treatment was completed. Five (1.55%) patients were hospitalized for poor treatment efficacy, and one (0.31%) patient was diagnosed with lung cancer despite improved symptoms. During oral therapy, there were three cases of skin and three cases of gastrointestinal adverse events, an incidence of 1.86%. Based on subsequent re-examinations and telephonic follow-ups, 93.50% (302 cases) of patients were satisfied with treatment effects. Conclusion In treating outpatients with mild-to-moderate CAP, nemonoxacin can effectively control symptoms, reducing medical costs and saving patient time. Importantly, this is a safe and effective therapeutic approach as it is well tolerated with few side effects.
A review of therapeutic options for managing the metabolic aspects of polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Metabolic sequelae associated with PCOS range from insulin resistance to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Insulin resistance plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of PCOS and it is a reliable marker for cardiometabolic risk. Although insulin sensitising agents such as metformin have been traditionally used for managing metabolic aspects of PCOS, their efficacy is low in terms of weight reduction and cardiovascular risk reduction compared with newer agents such as incretin mimetics and SGLT2 inhibitors. With current pharmaceutical advances, potential therapeutic options have increased, giving patients and clinicians more choices. Incretin mimetics are a promising therapy with a unique metabolic target that could be used widely in the management of PCOS. Likewise, bariatric procedures have become less invasive and result in effective weight loss and the reversal of metabolic morbidities in some patients. Therefore, surgical treatment targeting weight loss becomes increasingly common in the management of obese women with PCOS. Newer emerging therapies, including twincretins, triple GLP-1 agonists, glucagon receptor antagonists and imeglemin, are promising therapeutic options for treating T2DM. Given the similarity of metabolic and pathological features between PCOS and T2DM and the variety of therapeutic options, there is the potential to widen our strategy for treating metabolic disorders in PCOS in parallel with current therapeutic advances. The review was conducted in line with the recommendations from the international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome 2018.
Coronavirus Disease 2019: Where are we and Where are we Going? Intersections Between Coronavirus Disease 2019 and the Heart

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which has become a pandemic affecting every country in the world. In the province of Bergamo, Italy, more than 2,200 cases of COVID-19 have been reported, which include more than 300 deaths. Most hospitalisations have been at the Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital. This has imposed a significant burden on our hospital in terms of healthcare personnel, dedicated spaces (including intensive care areas) and time spent by clinicians, who are committed to assisting COVID-19 patients. In this short expert opinion, the authors will focus on new insights related to COVID-19 and the cardiovascular system, and try to investigate the grey areas and uncertainties in this field.
Marker-assisted Gene Pyramiding for Inbred Line Development: Basic Principles and Practical Guidelines

Gene pyramiding, which aims to assemble multiple desirable genes into a single genotype, is a commonly used method in breeding for self-pollinated crops. Traditionally, the main use of gene pyramiding is to improve an existing elite cultivar through introgression of a few genes of large effects from other sources, since the presence of the target genes has to be monitored by phenotyping, which is only effective for major genes. Depending on the trait and inheritance of the targeted genes, gene pyramiding may require much labour, time and material resources. The development of modern plant molecular techniques and quantitative genetics in the last two decades has dramatically widened the applicability of gene pyramiding. It provides enhanced knowledge of the genetics of the breeding traits and of the relative genomic location of functionally related as well as neutral markers associated with the genes responsible for the traits. It facilitates the identification of genes with large effect for traits which are traditionally regarded as quantitative and not targeted by gene pyramiding program. Marker-based selection reduces/eliminates extensive phenotyping, provides more effective options to control linkage drag, makes the pyramiding of genes with very similar phenotypic effects possible, and reduces the breeding duration. Marker-based gene pyramiding is now the method of choice for inbred line development targeted at improving traits controlled by major genes. In this review, we focus on aspects of designing an efficient marker-based gene pyramiding strategy for inbred line development. The basic principles of gene pyramiding, the process and useful guidelines for designing an efficient strategy, and the integration of gene discovery and pyramiding are discussed in this paper, while the successful use of gene pyramiding in practical breeding is summarised in a companion paper
The State of Crayfish in the Pacific Northwest

Abstract We summarize the state of knowledge on crayfish in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States and Canada, emphasizing distributions and conservation status of native species, as well as known introductions and distributions of alien crayfishes, and reviewing fishing regulations relevant to crayfish across five states and provinces. We found the present distribution and ecology of native crayfishes in this region to be poorly known, inhibiting accurate conservation assessments and management. The number of alien crayfishes established in the region, ranging in distribution from localized to widespread and including several major invasive species, now exceeds the diversity of native crayfishes. The treatment of crayfish by fishing regulations and laws varies among states and provinces, potentially impairing successful management and conservation of these species in shared ecosystems such as the Snake and Columbia rivers. We conclude with recommendations for crayfish management and regulation.
Left Ventricular End-Systolic Volume Is a Reliable Predictor of New-Onset Heart Failure with Preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction

Background Left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) and LV volumes were reported to have prognostic efficacy in cardiac diseases. In particular, the end-systolic volume index (LVESVI) has been featured as the most reliable prognostic indicator. However, such efficacy in patients with LVEF ≥ 50% has not been elucidated. Methods We screened the patients who received cardiac catheterization to evaluate coronary artery disease concomitantly with both left ventriculography and LV pressure recording using a catheter-tipped micromanometer and finally enrolled 355 patients with LVEF ≥ 50% and no history of heart failure (HF) after exclusion of the patients with severe coronary artery stenosis requiring early revascularization. Cardiovascular death or hospitalization for HF was defined as adverse events. The prognostic value of LVESVI was investigated using a Cox proportional hazards model. Results A univariable analysis demonstrated that age, log BNP level, tau, peak − dP/dt, LVEF, LV end-diastolic volume index (LVEDVI), and LVESVI were associated with adverse events. A correlation analysis revealed that LVESVI was significantly associated with log BNP level (r = 0.356, p < 0.001), +dP/dt (r = −0.324, p < 0.001), −dP/dt (r = 0.391, p < 0.001), and tau (r = 0.337, p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis with a stepwise procedure using the variables with statistical significance in the univariable analysis revealed that aging, an increase in BNP level, and enlargement of LVESVI were significant prognostic indicators (age: HR: 1.071, 95% CI: 1.009–1.137, p=0.024; log BNP : HR : 1.533, 95% CI: 1.090–2.156, p=0.014; LVESVI : HR : 1.051, 95% CI: 1.011–1.093, p=0.013, respectively). According to the receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis for adverse events, log BNP level of 3.23 pg/ml (BNP level: 25.3 pg/ml) and an LVESVI of 24.1 ml/m2 were optimal cutoff values (BNP : AUC : 0.753, p < 0.001, LVESVI : AUC : 0.729, p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion In patients with LVEF ≥ 50%, an increased LVESVI is related to the adverse events. LV contractile performance even in the range of preserved LVEF should be considered as a role of a prognostic indicator.
Cardiovascular Protection of Nephropathic Male Patients by Oral Food Supplements

Nephropathic patients show elevated cardiovascular morbidity and mortality compared to the general population. In order to delve deeper into the understanding of this phenomenon, it is necessary to recognize risk factors that are distinctive to the uremic state, such as oxidative stress and chronic low-grade inflammation. Moreover, gender differences have been reported in nephrology, as it has been observed that chronic kidney disease has higher prevalence in males than in females. The use of an oral food supplement (OFS) containing natural active compounds from Capsicum annuum L. , Garcinia cambogia, Centella asiatica L. , artichoke, and Aesculus hippocastanum L. which are virtually devoid from side effects, but rich in antioxidant and antiradical properties, could represent a valid therapeutic adjunct in the clinical management of nephropathic patients. Moreover, quantitative analysis performed in vitro on such compounds showed that they expressed good total antioxidant (7.28 gallic acid equivalents) and antiradical activity (above 80%). In this study, 23 male nephropathic patients and 10 age and body composition parameter matched healthy males (control group) were enrolled and took 3 cps/day of OFS for 5 weeks. At the end of the study, the nephropathic patient group showed a statistically significant reduction in the following laboratory parameters: total cholesterol (TC) (p = 0.044), atherogenic index TC/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.010), inflammatory parameters (C-reactive protein, p = 0.048, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, p = 0.019), systolic (p = 0.044), and diastolic arterial blood pressure (p = 0.003). Regarding body composition, there was an increase in total body water % (p = 0.035) with redistribution of extracellular water % (p = 0.030) and intracellular water % (p = 0.049). In the control group, there was a reduction in fat mass % (p = 0.017) and extracellular water % (p = 0.047). Therefore, this OFS may represent a valid adjunct therapy to counteract comorbidities related to uremia.
PARAPARESIS IN A PATIENT WITH ADVANCED HIV DISEASE WITHOUT MANIFESTATIONS OF OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTION

HIV infection had been associated with many symptoms and signs but the least expected is paraparesis in the absence of constitutional clinical features. This case presentation is to highlight the unusual presentation of a 43 year old who presented with difficulty in walking due to gradual weakness in his lower limbs (more on right than left) and difficulty in passing urine of 8 months duration. All the common symptoms and signs associated with advanced HIV infection were absent. Urethroscopy and prostate biopsy were done and showed normal findings. Cranial computerised tomography (CT) scan finding was normal, but lumbo-sacral Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed degenerative disease suggestive of immunosuppression. HIV screening (Unigold and ELISA) and HIV confirmatory tests were done that showed reactivity to HIV-1 antibody and CD4 count and plasma viral load results were 226 cells/ mm3 and 126,000 copies/ml respectively. The patient was commenced on antiretroviral therapy and paraparesis started resolving.
Carbohydrate source and concentration affect in vitro growth indices of the selected wild cherry (Prunus avium L.) genotype.

In vitro shoots of the selected genotype of wild cherry grown in natural forests of Nour (north forests of Iran) were subcultured in Murashige and Skoog medium (1/2 N) containing 1 mgl -1 BA and 0.1 mgl -1 IBA and three different source of carbohydrates (Sucrose, Glucose and fructose) at three levels (0, 15, 30 and 45 g l -1 ) for proliferation stage. Mean height of longest shoot, Coefficient of multiplication, as the mean of new shoots formed per micro cutting in each subculture, mean of leaf number, dry weight, minerals percentage (N, P, K and Ca) and sucrose content were measured in shoots after 30 and 45 days. Fructose resulted as the best source of carbohydrate inducing superior rates of growth indices. Higher concentrations, more than 30 g l-1, of each carbohydrate improved the results. The highest sucrose content in shoots was achieved in media supplemented with 45 gl -1 sucrose and fructose after 15 and 30 days, respectively. The maximum uptake of N (%) was achieved in shoots treated by 45 g l-1 fructose both after 15 and 30 days. It was concluded that type of carbon source affected significantly growth indices, consequently the rate of mineral absorption and levels of carbohydrates of