Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Evidence for Widespread Degradation of Gene Control Regions in Hominid Genomes

Although sequences containing regulatory elements located close to protein-coding genes are often only weakly conserved during evolution, comparisons of rodent genomes have implied that these sequences are subject to some selective constraints. Evolutionary conservation is particularly apparent upstream of coding sequences and in first introns, regions that are enriched for regulatory elements. By comparing the human and chimpanzee genomes, we show here that there is almost no evidence for conservation in these regions in hominids. Furthermore, we show that gene expression is diverging more rapidly in hominids than in murids per unit of neutral sequence divergence. By combining data on polymorphism levels in human noncoding DNA and the corresponding human–chimpanzee divergence, we show that the proportion of adaptive substitutions in these regions in hominids is very low. It therefore seems likely that the lack of conservation and increased rate of gene expression divergence are caused by a reduction in the effectiveness of natural selection against deleterious mutations because of the low effective population sizes of hominids. This has resulted in the accumulation of a large number of deleterious mutations in sequences containing gene control elements and hence a widespread degradation of the genome during the evolution of humans and chimpanzees.
Effectiveness of a Mobile Phone App for Adults That Uses Physical Activity as a Tool to Manage Cigarette Craving After Smoking Cessation: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background Results from studies on the effects of exercise on smoking-related variables have provided strong evidence that physical activity acutely reduces cigarette cravings. Mobile technology may provide some valuable tools to move from explanatory randomized controlled trials to pragmatic randomized controlled trials by testing the acute effectiveness of exercise on quitters under real-life conditions. An mHealth app was developed to be used as a support tool for quitters to manage their cigarette cravings. Objective The primary aim of this paper is to present the protocol of a study examining the effectiveness of the Physical over smoking app (Ph.o.S) by comparing the point prevalence abstinence rate of a group of users to a comparator group during a 6-month follow-up period. Methods After initial Web-based screening, eligible participants are recruited to attend a smoking cessation program for 3 weeks to set a quit smoking date. Fifty participants who succeed in quitting will be randomly allocated to the comparator and experimental groups. Both groups will separately have 1 more counseling session on how to manage cravings. In this fourth session, the only difference in treatment between the groups is that the experimental group will have an extra 10-15 minutes of guidance on how to use the fully automated Ph.o. S app to manage cravings during the follow-up period. Data will be collected at baseline, as well as before and after the quit day, and follow-up Web-based measures will be collected for a period of 6 months. The primary efficacy outcome is the 7-day point prevalence abstinence rate, and secondary efficacy outcomes are number of relapses and cravings, self-efficacy of being aware of craving experience, self-efficacy in managing cravings, and power of control in managing cravings. Results Recruitment for this project commenced in December 2014, and proceeded until May 2015. Follow-up data collection has commenced and will be completed by the end of December 2015. Conclusions If the Ph.o. S app is shown to be effective, the study will provide evidence for the use of the app as a support tool for people who are trying to manage cravings during smoking cessation programs. It is anticipated that the results of the study will provide knowledge of how physical activity affects cigarette craving in real-life situations and inform the development and delivery of relapse prevention in smoking cessation treatment. Trial Registration International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): ISRCTN55259451; http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN55259451 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6cKF2mzEI)
Paragenesis of Cu-Fe ores from Ocna de Fier-Dognecea (Romania), typifying fluid plume mineralization in a proximal skarn setting

Abstract Trace mineral assemblages in the bornite- and chalcopyrite-rich Cu-Fe zone of the Ocna de Fier- Dognecea skarn deposits, Banat, SW Romania provide additional constraints on the genesis of this classic zoned skarn system. Observed assemblages substantiate a model, in which the Cu-Fe zone forms the proximal fluid-plume root of the system. Observed trace mineral assemblages in the magnesian forsterite-bearing skarns crystallized at ~650°C in a volatile-rich environment, evidenced by widespread phlogopite, ludwigite, valleriite and apatite. The entire assemblage thus belongs to the initial stage of skarn formation. Prolonged cooling led to sequential exsolution of trace mineral phases from bornite and chalcopyrite during the retrograde stage, although still at temperatures in excess of 500°C. Bornite is typified by the abundance of exsolved phases along cleavage planes and along crystal margins, notably chalcopyrite and pyrrhotite, but also cobalt pentlandite, carrollite, wittichenite, galena, mawsonite, silver and electrum. Chalcopyrite hosts cobalt pentlandite, carrollite, wittichenite, galena and a sequence of Se- and Te-bearing minerals (kawazulite, bohdanowiczite, hessite, volynskite), along, although not restricted to, grain margins. The assemblage bornite-chalcopyrite-magnetite, with the trace phases, cobalt pentlandite, carrollite, wittichenite and various Se- and Te-bearing minerals represents a characteristic assemblage common to a disparate range of deposits formed at temperatures in excess of 500°C in the presence of volatiles and typified by relatively low fS₂ fluids.
Nd and Sr isotopes and K-Ar ages of the Ulreungdo alkali volcanic rocks in the East Sea, South Korea

Temporal geochemical and isotopical variations in the Ulreungdo alkali volcanic rocks provide important constraints on the origin and evolution of the volcanic rocks in relation to backarc basin tectonism. We determined the K-Ar ages, major and trace element contents, and Nd and Sr isotopic ratios of the alkali volcanic rocks. The activities of Ulreungdo volcanoes can be divided, on the basis of radiometric ages and field occurrences, into five stages, though their activities range from 1.4 Ma to 0.01 Ma with short volcanic hiatus (ca. 0.05∼0.3 Ma). The Nd-Sr isotopic data for Ulreungdo volcanic rocks enable us to conclude that: (1) the source materials of Ulreungdo volcanics are isotopically heterogeneous in composition, which is explained by the mixing of mantle derived magma and continental crustal source rocks. There is no systematic isotopic variations with eruption stages. Particulary, some volcanic rocks of stage 2 and 3 have extremely wide initial 87Sr/86Sr isotopic variations ranging from 0.7038 to 0.7092, which are influenced by seawater alterations; (2) the Ulreungdo volcanic rocks show EMI characteristics, while volcanic rocks from the Jejudo, Yeong-il and Jeon-gok areas have slightly depleted mantle source characteristics; (3) the trachyandesite of the latest eruption stage was originated from the mantle source materials which differ from other stages. A schematic isotopic evolution model for alkali basaltic magma is presented in the Ulreungdo volcanic island of the backarc basin of Japanese island arc system.
Neuroprotective Effect of Celastrus Paniculatus Seed Extract on Epilepsy and Epilepsy-associated Cognitive Deficits

Introduction: Cognitive deficit is one of the common comorbidity accompanying epilepsy. The present study evaluated the effect of Celastrus paniculatus seed extract on seizure severity and cognitive deficit following the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced chemical kindling model. Methods: PTZ kindling model was developed by daily administration of the sub-convulsive dose of PTZ 30 mg/kg for four weeks. After four weeks of induction, the following treatment, namely sodium valproic acid (SVA) 200 mg/kg, C. paniculatus 500 mg\kg, pergolide 2 mg/kg, C. paniculatus (250 mg\kg)+ Pergolide (1 mg/kg), and C. paniculatus (250 mg\kg)+ SVA (100 mg/kg) were administered 30 minutes prior to PTZ (30 mg/kg) injection for a period of next 14 days. Neurobehavioral parameters, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and dopamine levels were assessed and the Morris water maze test (MWM) and Grip strength test (GPS) were performed. Hematoxylin & Eosin (H&E) staining of hippocampal cornu ammonis (CA1), CA2, CA3, dentate gyrus (DG), and frontal cortex was performed. Results: C. paniculatus (500 mg/kg) alone and in combination (C. paniculatus (250 mg\ kg)+ pergolide (1 mg/kg) and C. paniculatus (250 mg\kg)+ SVA (100 mg/kg)) significantly (P<0.05) reduced the seizure score, mean latency time, and distance traveled in the MWM. However, no significant effect was seen in GPS. Biochemical analysis showed elevated antioxidant markers, namely GSH, CAT, and SOD, and also elevated dopamine levels. C. paniculatus and its combination also significantly (P<0.05) protected against neuronal loss in the hippocampus and frontal cortex evidenced by H&E staining Conclusion: C. paniculatus alone and in combination with other agents may have the potential to treat epilepsy and associated cognitive deficits
A database for medicinal plants used in the treatment of diabetes and its secondary complications

Effective treatment of diabetes is increasingly dependent on active constituents of medicinal plants capable of controlling hyperglycemia as well as its secondary complications. Sensing the importance of documenting such medicinal plants, here we describe a web database containing information (name, literature citation, active compounds and few related full text articles) of the diabetes medicinal plants exhibiting hypoglycemic, antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. Availability http://www.autogeneralfilters. com/holycross/Home.html.
Reduction in myocardial infarction admissions in Liverpool after the smoking ban: potential socioeconomic implications for policymaking

Objectives To analyse the trends and trend changes in myocardial infraction (MI) and coronary heart disease (CHD) admissions, to investigate the effects of the 2007 smoke-free legislation on these trends, and to consider the policy implications of any findings. Design setting Liverpool (city), UK. Participants Hospital episode statistics data on all 56 995 admissions for CHD in Liverpool between 2004 and 2012 (International Classification of Diseases codes I20–I25 coded as an admission diagnosis within the defined dates). Primary and secondary outcome measures Trend gradient and change points (by trend regressions analysis) in age-standardised MI admissions in Liverpool between 2004 and 2012; by sex and by socioeconomic status. Secondary analysis on CHD admissions. Results A significant and sustained reduction was seen in MI admissions in Liverpool beginning within 1 year of the smoking ban. Comparing 2005/2006 and 2010/2011, the age-adjusted rates for MI admissions fell by 42% (39–45%) (41.6% in men and by 42.6% in women). Trend analysis shows that this is significantly greater than the background trend of decreasing admissions. These reductions appeared consistent across all socioeconomic groups. Interestingly, admission rates for total CHD (including mild to severe angina) increased by 10% (8–12%). Conclusions A dramatic reduction in MI admissions in Liverpool has been observed coinciding with the smoking ban in 2007. Furthermore, the benefits were apparent across the socioeconomic spectrum. Health inequalities were not affected and may even have been reduced. The rapid effects observed with this top-down, environmental policy may further increase its value to policymakers.
Different TCR-induced T lymphocyte responses are potentiated by stiffness with variable sensitivity

T cells are mechanosensitive but the effect of stiffness on their functions is still debated. We characterize herein how human primary CD4+ T cell functions are affected by stiffness within the physiological Young’s modulus range of 0.5 kPa to 100 kPa. Stiffness modulates T lymphocyte migration and morphological changes induced by TCR/CD3 triggering. Stiffness also increases TCR-induced immune system, metabolism and cell-cycle-related genes. Yet, upon TCR/CD3 stimulation, while cytokine production increases within a wide range of stiffness, from hundreds of Pa to hundreds of kPa, T cell metabolic properties and cell cycle progression are only increased by the highest stiffness tested (100 kPa). Finally, mechanical properties of adherent antigen-presenting cells modulate cytokine production by T cells. Together, these results reveal that T cells discriminate between the wide range of stiffness values found in the body and adapt their responses accordingly. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.7554/eLife.23190. 001
Suspected Motor Problems and Low Preference for Active Play in Childhood Are Associated with Physical Inactivity and Low Fitness in Adolescence

Background This prospective longitudinal study investigates whether suspected motor problems and low preference for active play in childhood are associated with physical inactivity and low cardiorespiratory fitness in adolescence. Methodology/Principal Findings The study sample consisted of the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986 (NFBC 1986) composed of 5,767 children whose parents responded to a postal inquiry concerning their children's motor skills at age 8 years and who themselves reported their physical activity at age 16 years. Cardiorespiratory fitness was measured with a cycle ergometer test at age 16 years. Odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for the level of physical activity and fitness were obtained from multinomial logistic regression and adjusted for socio-economic position and body mass index. Low preference for active play in childhood was associated with physical inactivity (boys: OR 3.31, 95% CI 2.42–4.53; girls: OR 1.79, 95% CI 1.36–2.36) and low cardiorespiratory fitness (boys: OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.27–2.74; girls: OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.09–2.11) in adolescence. Suspected gross (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.33–3.49) and fine (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.35–2.60) motor problems were associated with physical inactivity among boys. Children with suspected motor problems and low preference for active play tended to have an even higher risk of physical inactivity in adolescence. Conclusions/Significance Low preference for active play in childhood was associated with physical inactivity and low cardiorespiratory fitness in adolescence. Furthermore, children with suspected motor problems and low preference for active play tended to have an even higher risk of physical inactivity in adolescence. Identification of children who do not prefer active play and who have motor problems may allow targeted interventions to support their motor learning and participation in active play and thereby promote their physical activity and fitness in later life.
The effect of desacetyluvaricin on the expression of TLR4 and P53 protein in Hepg 2.2.15

Background Previous studies suggest that annonaceous may cause permeability glycoprotein (P-gp) function to abate, leading to cell apoptosis. It has also been reported that annonaceous acetogenins affect hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells in the G1 phase, leading to apoptosis. Desacetyluvaricin (Des), a new type of annonaceous acetogenin monomer, has a significant effect on HCC, with few side effects. Objectives To investigate the effect of Des on the expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and P53 protein in HCC. Materials and Methods HCC HepG2.2. 15 cell was cultured by routine method. HepG2.2. 15 cells were divided into three groups: control group, treated with Des and DDP (cisplatin) which were examined by immunofluorescence flow cytometry for expression of TLR4 and P53. Results TLR4 was expressed by more cells in the Des group than in the cisplatin or serum-only groups (71.94%, 42.64%, and 37.16%, respectively; Des vs.cisplatin: p < 0.05; Des vs. serum only: p < 0.05), with no difference between the cisplatin and serum-only groups (p > 0.05). P53 was expressed by more cells in the Des and cisplatin groups than in the serum-only group (32.6%, 31.5% and 3.3%, respectively; Des vs. serum only, p < 0.05; cisplatin vs. serum only, p < 0.05), with no difference between the Des and cisplatin groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions Des increases TLR4 and P53 expression in HCC cells. Improved immune recognition by the former effect and induction of apoptosis by the latter could be the mechanisms of Des's clinical effects on HCC.
Water as a Source of Cooperation or Conflict? - A Case Study of The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam

In this study the probable outcome of the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is investigated. At the same time an attempt is made to derive general factors that can determine whether a common source of water leads to conflict or cooperation between states. This is done by contrasting two different theories regarding conflict and cooperation over water in a heuristic case study. The result shows that the theories in question were applicable, but have some flaws. My thesis therefore makes an effort to develop these authors’ works, leading to an recognition of a coexistence between conflict and cooperation. In addition, the result shows that, at present, the probable outcome of the dam project points in the direction of cooperation. This is supported by water’s intrinsic ability to be shared between one another, which can be seen as a deciding factor for cooperation instead of conflict.
Climate Change and Greenhouse Gases

Infrared (IR) active gases, principally water vapor (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), and ozone (O3), naturally present in the Earth's atmosphere, absorb thermal IR radiation emitted by the Earth's surface and atmosphere. The atmosphere is warmed by this mechanism and, in turn, emits IR radiation, with a significant portion of this energy acting to warm the surface and the lower atmosphere. As a consequence the average surface air temperature of the Earth is about 30°C higher than it would be without atmospheric absorption and reradiation of IR energy [Kellogg, 1996; Peixoto and Oort, 1992; Henderson-Sellers and Robinson, 1986]. This phenomenon is popularly known as the “greenhouse effect,” and the IR active gases responsible for the effect are likewise referred to as “greenhouse gases. ” The rapid increase in concentrations of greenhouse gases since the industrial period began has given rise to concern over potential resultant climate changes.
¿Quitarle a los ricos para darle a los pobres?: Una propuesta de redistribución de los recursos del canon y regalí­as mineras a nivel municipal

In this study the Peruvian intergovernmental transfer system was redesigned taking into consideration both horizontal equity and transverse compensation in the distribution of resources. In doing so, the Admad, Singh and Fortuna (2004)â€™s methodology was used, the same which proposes a formula to equalize intergovernmental transfers by calculating fiscal capacities and pending requirements at the municipal level. The results of the study are 5: (i) the municipalities located at mining regions receive more resources than they should receive according to their fiscal capacities and spending needs; (ii) the municipalities located at mining regions received S/. 1364.3 millions (US$ 455 millions) in excess, which represents a surplus of 67.5%; (iii) when a entire reform of the transfer system is implemented, the whole of the resources that municipalities placed at mining regions receive in excess are redistributed between non-mining municipalities; (iv) the variance of the resources interregional distribution declines gradually in each of the 3 stages of the proponed reform; (v) additional resources are not necessary to equalize the intergovernmental transfer system, only political will is needed. At the end, the study establishes 4 guidelines to implement a reform of the Peruvian intergovernmental transfer system.
Complex object profilometry and its application for dentistry

A precise measurement on the surface shape of the denture is proposed and verified by experiments. The new phase unwrapping algorithm is based on the intensity modulation of fringe pattern. The path of phase unwrapping is determined according to the histogram of the intensity modulation, therefore the error is limited, if there is any, to local minimum areas.
Effects of Aerobic Exercise vs. Resistance Training on Endothelial Function in Women with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background There is controversy over whether aerobic or resistance exercise is more effective for improving endothelial function in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study was aimed to investigate the effects of an aerobic and resistance training program on endothelial function, and the influences of glycemic control, body weight changes, and aerobic capacity in T2DM. Methods Total 40 overweight women with T2DM were assigned into 3 groups: an aerobic exercise group (AEG, n=13), resistance exercise group (REG, n=12), and control group (CG, n=15), and followed either brisk walking for the AEG or resistance band training for the REG, 60 minutes per day, 5 days per week for 12 weeks with monitoring daily activity using accelerometers. We assessed endothelial function by flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and aerobic capacity by oxygen uptake at anaerobic threshold (AT_VO2) at baseline and following training program. Results The mean participants' age was 57.0±6.8 years, and body mass index (BMI) was 27.0±2.3 kg/m2. After intervention, FMD increased by 2.2±1.9% in AEG, which differed from REG and CG (P=0.002), despite of decreased body weight (BW) in both AG and RG (2.8±2.5%, P=0.002; 1.6±2.0%, P=0.017, respectively). A significant increased AT_VO2 and decreased HbA1c were found only in AEG. In all participants, FMD was changed with the significant relations to the AT_VO2 (r=0.348, P=0.035), but not to HbA1c levels or BW. Conclusion Aerobic exercise appears to be more beneficial than resistance exercise for improving endothelial function in T2DM. In addition, aerobic capacity could be a better predictor of changes in FMD than BW and glycemic control.
Geodetic slip rates in the southern San Andreas Fault system: Effects of elastic heterogeneity and fault geometry

We use high resolution interferometric synthetic aperture radar and GPS measurements of crustal motion across the southern San Andreas Fault system to investigate the effects of elastic heterogeneity and fault geometry on inferred slip rates and locking depths. Geodetically measured strain rates are asymmetric with respect to the mapped traces of both the southern San Andreas and San Jacinto faults. Two possibilities have been proposed to explain this observation: large contrasts in crustal rigidity across the faults, or an alternate fault geometry such as a dipping San Andreas fault or a blind segment of the San Jacinto Fault. We evaluate these possibilities using a two‐dimensional elastic model accounting for heterogeneous structure computed from the Southern California Earthquake Center crustal velocity model CVM‐H 6.3. The results demonstrate that moderate variations in elastic properties of the crust do not produce a significant strain rate asymmetry and have only a minor effect on the inferred slip rates. However, we find that small changes in the location of faults at depth can strongly impact the results. Our preferred model includes a San Andreas Fault dipping northeast at 60°, and two active branches of the San Jacinto fault zone. In this case, we infer nearly equal slip rates of 18 ± 1 and 19 ± 2 mm/yr for the San Andreas and San Jacinto fault zones, respectively. These values are in good agreement with geologic measurements representing average slip rates over the last 104–106 years, implying steady long‐term motion on these faults.