Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Signatures of diversifying selection and convergence acting on passerine Toll‐like receptor 4 in an evolutionary context

Positive selection acting on Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) has been recently investigated to reveal evolutionary mechanisms of host–pathogen molecular co‐adaptation. Much of this research, however, has focused mainly on the identification of sites predicted to be under positive selection, bringing little insight into the functional differences and similarities among species and a limited understanding of convergent evolution in the innate immune molecules. In this study, we provide evidence of phenotypic variability in the avian TLR4 ligand‐binding region (LBR), the direct interface between host and pathogen molecular structures. We show that 55 passerine species vary substantially in the distribution of electrostatic potential on the surface of the receptor, and based on these distinct patterns, we identified four species clusters. Seven of the 34 evolutionarily nonconservative and positively selected residues correspond topologically to sites previously identified as being important for lipopolysaccharide, lipid IVa or MD‐2 binding. Five of these positions codetermine the identity of the charge clusters. Groups of species that host‐related communities of pathogens were predicted to cluster based on their TLR4 LBR charge. Despite some evidence for convergence among taxa, there were no clear associations between the TLR4 LBR charge distribution and any of the general ecological characteristics compared (migration, latitudinal distribution and diet). Closely related species, however, mostly belonged to the same surface charge cluster indicating that phylogenetic constraints are key determinants shaping TLR4 adaptive evolution. Our results suggest that host innate immune evolution is consistent with Fahrenholz's rule on the cospeciation of hosts and their parasites.
The Status of Use of Leukoreduced Blood Products in Korean Hospitals

최승준·김신영·김현옥·권정란·이상원·신영학 Seung Jun Choi, M.D., Sinyoung Kim, M.D., Hyun Ok Kim, M.D., Jeong Ran Kwon, P.H. O, Sang Won Lee, Ph.D., Young-Hack Shin, Ph.D. 연세대학교 의과대학 진단검사의학교실, 질병관리본부 혈액안전감시과 Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul; The Division of Human Blood Safety Surveillance, Korea Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Cheongwon, Korea 원저 Lab Med Online Vol. 2, No. 4: 204-208, October 2012 http://dx.doi. org/10.3343/lmo.2012. 2.4. 204 수혈의학
Speciation in sympatry with ongoing secondary gene flow and a potential olfactory trigger in a radiation of Cameroon cichlids

The process of sympatric speciation in nature remains a fundamental unsolved problem. Cameroon crater lake cichlid radiations were long regarded as one of the most compelling examples; however, recent work showed that their origins were more complex than a single colonization event followed by isolation. Here, we performed a detailed investigation of the speciation history of a radiation of Coptodon cichlids from Lake Ejagham, Cameroon, using whole‐genome sequencing data. The existence of the Lake Ejagham Coptodon radiation is remarkable as this 0.5 km2 lake offers limited scope for divergence across a shallow depth gradient, disruptive selection is currently weak, and the species are sexually monochromatic. We infer that Lake Ejagham was colonized by Coptodon cichlids soon after its formation 9,000 years ago, yet speciation occurred only in the last 1,000–2,000 years. We show that secondary gene flow from a nearby riverine species has been ongoing, into ancestral as well as extant lineages, and we identify and date river‐to‐lake admixture blocks. One block contains a cluster of olfactory receptor genes that introgressed near the time of the first speciation event and coincides with a higher overall rate of admixture. Olfactory signalling is a key component of mate choice and species recognition in cichlids. A functional role for this introgression event is consistent with previous findings that sexual isolation appears much stronger than ecological isolation in Ejagham Coptodon. We conclude that speciation in this radiation took place in sympatry, yet may have benefited from ongoing riverine gene flow.
Phylogeography and population genomics of a lotic water beetle across a complex tropical landscape

The habitat template concept applied to a freshwater system indicates that lotic species, or those which occupy permanent habitats along stream courses, are less dispersive than lentic species, or those that occur in more ephemeral aquatic habitats. Thus, populations of lotic species will be more structured than those of lentic species. Stream courses include both flowing water and small, stagnant microhabitats that can provide refuge when streams are low. Many species occur in these microhabitats but remain poorly studied. Here, we present population genetic data for one such species, the tropical diving beetle Exocelina manokwariensis (Dytiscidae), sampled from six localities along a ~300 km transect across the Birds Head Peninsula of New Guinea. Molecular data from both mitochondrial (CO1 sequences) and nuclear (ddRAD loci) regions document fine‐scale population structure across populations that are ~45 km apart. Our results are concordant with previous phylogenetic and macroecological studies that applied the habitat template concept to aquatic systems. This study also illustrates that these diverse but mostly overlooked microhabitats are promising study systems in freshwater ecology and evolutionary biology. With the advent of next‐generation sequencing, fine‐scale population genomic studies are feasible for small nonmodel organisms to help illuminate the effect of habitat stability on species’ natural history, population structure and geographic distribution.
Multiple forms of selection shape reproductive isolation in a primate hybrid zone

Speciation occurs when populations diverge and become reproductively isolated from each other. Natural selection is commonly accepted to play a large role in this process, and it has been widely assumed that reproductive isolation often results as a by‐product of divergence driven by adaptation in allopatry. When such populations come into secondary contact, reinforcement can act to strengthen reproductive isolation, but the frequency and importance of this process are still unknown. Here, we explored genomic signatures of selection in allopatry and sympatry for loci associated with reproductive isolation using a natural primate hybrid zone. By analysing reduced‐representation sequencing data, we quantified admixture and population structure across a howler monkey hybrid zone and examined the relationship between locus‐specific differentiation and introgression. We detected extensive admixture that was mostly limited to the narrow contact zone. Loci with reduced introgression into the heterospecific genomic background (the pattern expected for loci associated with reproductive isolation due to selection against hybrids) were significantly more differentiated between allopatric parental populations than loci with neutral and increased introgression, supporting the hypothesis that reproductive isolation is a by‐product of divergence in allopatry. Further, loci with reduced introgression showed greater differentiation in sympatry than in allopatry, suggesting a role for reinforcement. Thus, our results reflect multiple forms of selection that have shaped reproductive isolation in this system. We conclude that reproductive isolation may have initially been driven by divergence in allopatry, but later reinforced by divergent selection in sympatry.
EasyFlow: increasing the convergence basin of variational image matching with a feature-based cost

Dense motion field estimation is a key computer vision problem. Many solutions have been proposed to compute small or large displacements, narrow or wide baseline stereo disparity, or non-rigid surface registration, but a unified methodology is still lacking. The authors introduce a general framework that robustly combines direct and feature-based matching. The feature-based cost is built around a novel robust distance function that handles keypoints and weak features such as segments. It allows us to use putative feature matches to guide dense motion estimation out of local minima. The authors’ framework uses a robust direct data term. It is implemented with a powerful second-order regularisation with external and self-occlusion reasoning. Their framework achieves state-of-the-art performance in several cases (standard optical flow benchmarks, wide-baseline stereo and non-rigid surface registration). Their framework has a modular design that customises to specific application needs.
Patterns of approximated localised moments for visual loop closure detection

In the context of autonomous mobile robot navigation, loop closing is defined as the correct identification of a previously visited location. Loop closing is essential for the accurate self-localisation of a robot; however, it is also challenging due to perceptual aliasing, which occurs when the robot traverses in environments with visually similar places (e.g. forests, parks, office corridors). In this study, the authors apply the local Zernike moments (ZMs) for loop closure detection. When computed locally, ZMs provide a high discrimination ability, which enables the distinguishing of similar-looking places. Particularly, they show that increasing the density over which the local ZMs are computed improves loop closing accuracy significantly. Furthermore, they present an approximation of ZMs that allows the usage of integral images, which enable real-time operation. Experiments on real datasets with strong perceptual aliasing show that the proposed ZM-based descriptor outperforms state-of-the-art methods in terms of loop closure accuracy. They also release the source-code of the implementation for research purposes.
Development of a superconducting fault current limiter using various high-speed circuit breakers

The authors constructed and tested a model superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) using a high-temperature superconducting film according to a design that includes a vacuum interrupter with an electromagnetic repulsion mechanism. The superconductor and the vacuum interrupter are connected in parallel with a bypass coil. If a fault occurs and current flows through the system, the superconductor is quenched and the current is transferred to the parallel coil because of the voltage drop in the superconductor. This large current in the parallel coil actuates the magnetic repulsion mechanism of the vacuum interrupter. On opening the vacuum interrupter, the current in the superconductor is interrupted. This model is expected to exhibit very low-energy consumption by the superconductor. The authors succeeded in interrupting the current flowing in the superconductor within a half-cycle using a prototype SFCL. An improved SFCL with higher voltage and current ranges was used to carry out current-limiting tests and to investigate the possibility of adapting our SFCL in a power system. The authors also carried out a current-limiting test using a conventional high-speed vacuum circuit breaker (HSVCB) as a new method for realising our concept.
Aspectos fisiológicos e biomecânicos da produção de força podem ser usados no controle do treinamento de remadores de elite

The sports science currently requires approaches that match the study of biomechanical and physiological aspects, for the correct understanding of the phenomena related to human performance. The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in biomechanical and physiological responses between different force-time curves in rowers. Fifteen rowers (23.6 ±5.4 yrs), were submitted to maximal rowing ergometer. The biomechanical (peak force, power and impulse) and physiological (VO2, VCO2, VE, RER MET, lactate and HR) responses were measured in the lactate threshold stage as well as in the maximal stage reached by the rowers. The rowers were classified in two groups according to the localization of the peak force in their force-time curves: peak force in the first half of the curve (stroke) or in the second half of the curve (bow). There are no significant differences between the parameters measured in the two groups at lactate threshold stage of the rowing ergometer. Twelve rowers presented finish accentuated force curve in the lactate threshold; however, five (41.7%) changed for a catch accentuated pattern, while seven (58.3%) kept the original force-time profile in the maximal stage of the rowing ergometer. The rowers with a finish accentuated profile showed higher power production (p<0.05). The results suggest that coaches interested in extending exercise time must seek a finish accentuated force-time profile. Catch accentuated rowers could be better adapted to faster boats.
Comportamento dos antitérmicos ibuprofeno e dipirona em crianças febris

OBJETIVO: Analisar o comportamento da temperatura em criancas febris medicadas com dose oral unica do ibuprofeno (10 mg/kg), dose recomendada para febre alta, comparado a dipirona (15 mg/kg), dose preconizada pelo fabricante, apos 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 e 8 horas da medicacao antitermica. METODOS: Ensaio clinico, aberto e randomizado (1:1), em criancas de ambos os sexos, com doencas febris, com idade entre 6 meses e 8 anos, temperatura axilar basal entre 38,0 e 40,3 °C, e divididas em dois grupos: febre alta (> 39,1 °C) e febre baixa (38,0 a 39,1 °C). A analise do comportamento baseou-se nos criterios de descontinuidade, seguranca, resposta ao tratamento, tolerabilidade e eficacia terapeutica. RESULTADOS: Das 80 criancas, 31 permaneceram afebris ao longo de 8 horas (38,8%), 100,0% obtiveram decrescimo da temperatura com ambas as medicacoes nas 2 primeiras horas. No grupo de febre alta, 11 criancas medicadas com ibuprofeno foram mantidas ate a 5a hora (100,0%), e 11 com dipirona ate a 3a hora (100,0%). A eficacia antipiretica na febre alta foi estatisticamente significante a favor do ibuprofeno na 3a e na 4a hora, e, na febre baixa, na 3a hora apos a medicacao. CONCLUSOES: Este estudo demonstrou que, em dose oral unica, o ibuprofeno proporciona atividade antipiretica mais acentuada do que a dipirona, principalmente na febre alta. Ambas as medicacoes foram bem toleradas e seguras em curto prazo.
Multiple mini‐interviews: same concept, different approaches

Increasing numbers of educational institutions in the medical field choose to replace their conventional admissions interviews with a multiple mini‐interview (MMI) format because the latter has superior reliability values and reduces interviewer bias. As the MMI format can be adapted to the conditions of each institution, the question of under which circumstances an MMI is most expedient remains unresolved. This article systematically reviews the existing MMI literature to identify the aspects of MMI design that have impact on the reliability, validity and cost‐efficiency of the format.
Percutaneous transtracheal ventilation: experimental and practical aspects.

Percutaneous transtracheal ventilation can be a lifesaving procedure when endotracheal intubation is not possible, but an understanding of the technique and necessary instruments is essential. This study, performed on adult sheep, defined the limited circumstances under which a 15-gauge needle, connected to oxygen at 50 pounds per square inch (psi), can provide an emergency transtracheal airway. There are situations, such as complete airway obstruction, when this combination is contraindicated. In addition, transtracheal ventilation might have to be performed using simpler equipment, such as a self-inflating resuscitation bag (AMBU-type) or with no equipment other than the transtracheal airway. A 3.0-mm I.D. cannula provided an adequate transtracheal airway under all circumstances examined. A 3.5-mm cannula is commercially available and physicians who deal with airway problems should be familiar with its use.
Neuromotor coordination of multisegmental muscle during a change in movement direction

The aim of this investigation was to determine how the CNS controlled seven segments of the human deltoid muscle during a change in the direction of shoulder joint motion. Specifically, we wished to determine how the prime mover, synergist and antagonist muscle segments of this muscle were manipulated to assume new functional roles as the direction of shoulder motion was rapidly changed from shoulder abduction to shoulder adduction. Seven bipolar surface electrodes (7 mm inter-electrode distance) were placed over the seven segments (D1–D7) of the right deltoid, in seven young (19–24yrs) male subjects, to detect changes in muscle segment activation as the subjects transitioned from a rapid shoulder-abduction to a rapid-adduction force impulse (MT = 1000 ms). For each subject, fifteen trials were recorded at an inter-trial interval of 30 seconds. Comparisons of muscle segment timing and intensity of activation were made across 6 equal time intervals between just before the peak of the abduction force impulse and the subsequent peak of the adduction force impulse. The results of this study have shown that segments of the deltoid were activated during both the shoulder abduction and shoulder adduction motor task. In addition, the pattern of muscle segment activation (timing and intensity), during the transition from shoulder abduction to shoulder adduction, was dependent upon the muscle's moment arm and line of pull in relation to the axis of shoulder joint rotation. Three distinct patterns of neuromotor activation were noted within the segments of the deltoid muscle. During abduction the agonist prime mover and synergist segments (D1–D5) were totally deactivated (< 10% MVC) as they became antagonist segments during adduction. The antagonist segment (D7), during abduction, was deactivated and then reactivated as it became a synergist segment during adduction. Finally segment D6 was shown to have a nearly continuous period of activation. The study has shown that during a transition to a new movement direction, a muscle segment's line of pull and future function in the next phase of the movement appears to determine its period and intensity of activation.
Studies on prevalence of malaria and management practices of the Azia community, Ihiala L.G.A., Anambra State, south-east Nigeria

A prevalence survey of malaria was carried out in Azia, a rural community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, southeast Nigeria. Thick blood films of 1000 individuals attending local hospitals in the community were used to determine the prevalence. Also, structured questionnaire was administered to 1000 individuals in order to obtain information on malaria management practices of the people. The study was carried to the wet season in Nigeria. The prevalence rate was found to be 76% and all were infections of Plasmodium falciparum. The prevalence by age was found to be 0-9(13.2%), 10-19(23.2%), 20-29(21.0%), 30-39(13.6%), 40-49(9.7%), 50 and above (19.2%). The malaria management practices showed that 24.6% attend hospitals, 12.0% use traditional medicine from local healers while 25.0% buy antimalarial drugs without prescription by a physician. It was also found that some use more than one method in their management of malaria. Those who combined antimalaria drugs with traditional medicine from local healers were found to be 17.4% combined antimalarials as well as attend hospitals, 13.8% do0 the while 1.2% reported doing nothing about malaria. The Nigerian Journal of Parasitology Vol. 24 2003: 33-38
Syphilis serology in human immunodeficiency virus patients: a need to redefine the VDRL test cut-off for biological false-positives.

The interpretation of non-treponemal and treponemal specific serological tests in a population where syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are endemic may not be straightforward (Augenbraun et al., 1994). The VDRL test for syphilis screening may, under certain circumstances, yield positive results in patients not infected with Treponema pallidum (biological false-positive reaction). In contrast, treponemal antibody tests such as the T. pallidum particle agglutination (TPPA) test have a high specificity, but in HIV-infected patients false-negative reactions have been reported (Erbelding et al., 1997; Gwanzura et al., 1999). A retrospective study was carried out to test the adequacy of VDRL as a screening test for the diagnosis of syphilis in HIV patients and to estimate the prevalence of HIV–syphilis coinfection in the North Indian population.
Ibuprofen-Associated Aseptic Meningitis

Aseptic meningitis is a rare condition associated with ibuprofen use. It is a diagnosis of exclusion and should be considered only after all infectious and most well-known noninfectious causes have been ruled out. The mechanism of ibuprofen-induced aseptic meningitis is not fully understood; however, most believe it is caused by a hypersensitivity-related reaction. Common symptoms of aseptic meningitis include headache, fever, nuchal rigidity, and confusion. Cerebral spinal fluid analysis generally reveals pleocytosis (the predominant white blood cell varies), with high protein concentrations and normal to low glucose concentrations. Autoimmune diseases and connective tissue diseases may predispose an individual to this condition. It is treated solely by withdrawal of the medication, although supportive treatment is often necessary. It is important that health care practitioners recognize this condition so that they are able to treat and prevent recurrence through patient education.
Widening access in selection using situational judgement tests: evidence from the UKCAT

Widening access promotes student diversity and the appropriate representation of all demographic groups. This study aims to examine diversity‐related benefits of the use of situational judgement tests (SJTs) in the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT) in terms of three demographic variables: (i) socio‐economic status (SES); (ii) ethnicity, and (iii) gender.