Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Long-term survival following open versus thoracoscopic lobectomy after preoperative chemotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer.

OBJECTIVES Video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) lobectomy is increasingly accepted for the management of early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but its role for locally advanced cancers has not been as well characterized. We compared outcomes of patients who received induction therapy followed by lobectomy, via VATS or thoracotomy. METHODS Perioperative complications and long-term survival of all patients with NSCLC who received induction chemotherapy (ICT) (with or without induction radiation therapy) followed by lobectomy from 1996-2012 were assessed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard analysis. Propensity score-matched comparisons were used to assess the potential impact of selection bias. RESULTS From 1996 to 2012, 272 patients met inclusion criteria and underwent lobectomy after ICT: 69 (25%) by VATS and 203 (75%) by thoracotomy. An 'intent-to-treat' analysis was performed. Compared with thoracotomy patients, VATS patients had a higher clinical stage, were older, had greater body mass index, and were more likely to have coronary disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Induction radiation was used more commonly in thoracotomy patients [VATS 28% (n = 19) vs open 72% (n = 146), P < 0.001]. Thirty-day mortality was similar between the VATS [3% (n = 2)] and open [4% (n = 8)] groups (P = 0.69). Seven (10%) of the VATS cases were converted to thoracotomy due to difficulty in dissection from fibrotic tissue and adhesions (n = 5) or bleeding (n = 2); none of these conversions led to perioperative deaths. In univariate analysis, VATS patients had improved 3-year survival compared with thoracotomy (61% vs 43%, P = 0.010). In multivariable analysis, the VATS approach showed a trend towards improved survival, but this did not reach statistical significance (hazard ratio, 0.56; 95% confidence interval, 0.32-1.01; P = 0.053). Moreover, a propensity score-matched analysis balancing patient characteristics demonstrated that the VATS approach had similar survival to an open approach (P = 0.56). CONCLUSIONS VATS lobectomy in patients treated with induction therapy for locally advanced NSCLC is feasible and effective and does not appear to compromise oncologic outcomes.
Cobbold Elizabeth Adams Luis Graca Stephen Daley Stephen Yates Alison Paterson

Immune privilege was originally believed to be associated with particular organs, such as the testes, brain, the anterior chamber of the eye, and the placenta, which need to be protected from any excessive inflammatory activity. It is now becoming clear, however, that immune privilege can be acquired locally in many different tissues in response to inflammation, but particularly due to the action of regulatory T cells (Tregs) induced by the deliberate therapeutic manipulation of the immune system toward tolerance. In this review, we consider the interplay between Tregs, dendritic cells, and the graft itself and the resulting local protective mechanisms that are coordinated to maintain the tolerant state. We discuss how both anti-inflammatory cytokines and negative costimulatory interactions can elicit a number of interrelated mechanisms to regulate both T-cell and antigen-presenting cell activity, for example, by catabolism of the amino acids tryptophan and arginine and the induction of hemoxygenase and carbon monoxide. The induction of local immune privilege has implications for the design of therapeutic regimens and the monitoring of the tolerant status of patients being weaned off immunosuppression.
erformance of the Keck Observatory daptive-optics system arcos

The adaptive-optics AO system at the W. M. Keck Observatory is characterized. We calculate the error budget of the Keck AO system operating in natural guide star mode with a near-infrared imaging camera. The measurement noise and bandwidth errors are obtained by modeling the control loops and recording residual centroids. Results of sky performance tests are presented: The AO system is shown to deliver images with average Strehl ratios of as much as 0.37 at 1.58 m when a bright guide star is used and of 0.19 for a magnitude 12 star. The images are consistent with the predicted wave-front error based on our error budget estimates. © 2004 Optical Society of America OCIS codes: 010.1080, 010.1330, 010.7350.
A Pacinian Hyperplasia of the Foot

A case of Pacinian hyperplasia of the right great toe is reported. Pacinian hyperplasia is a rare benign and recently recognized painful lesion composed of an excess of well formed or hyperplastic Pacinian corpuscules, normaly involved in sensory innervation. This lesion that is usually observed in the hand, must be distinguished from nerve tumors harboring onion-bulb structure which are not true well formed Pacinian corpuscules and from Morton neuroma. Pacinian hyperplasia is considered a reactive lesion and not a true neoplasm. To our knowledge, this case is the first described in the foot.
Determinants of undernutrition among primary school children residing in slum areas of a Nigerian city.

BACKGROUND Undernutrition remains the largest contributor to the global disease burden. Different factors affecting the nutritional status of children need to be studied to determine those to be targeted in a country like Nigeria, characterized by widespread poverty and inequitable distribution of wealth. OBJECTIVE This study was aimed at ascertaining the relationship between prevailing socioeconomic and environmental factors, and the nutritional status of children residing in a typical urban slum. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional descriptive study of 788 children aged 6-12 years selected by stratified, multistage random sampling method from public primary schools in slum and non-slum areas of Onitsha was carried out. Their nutritional status was determined using anthropometric measures. The socioeconomic and environmental variables of interest were analyzed to determine their relationship with undernutrition in the children. RESULTS Socioeconomic status was the major determinant of nutritional status in this study. Poor housing also affected the nutritional status of the slum children who were significantly from poorer families than those residing in non-slum areas (χ2 = 66.69, P = 0.000). CONCLUSION This study highlights the need for an effective nutrition program targeted at school children in urban slums surrounded by factors predisposing them to undernutrition.
Movement intention decoding based on deep learning for multiuser myoelectric interfaces

Recently, the development of practical myoelectric interfaces has resulted in the emergence of wearable rehabilitation robots such as arm prosthetics. In this paper, we propose a novel method of movement intention decoding based on the deep feature learning using electromyogram of human biosignals. In daily life, the inter-user variability cause decreases in performance by modulating target EMG patterns across different users. Therefore, we propose a user-adaptive decoding method for robust movement intention decoding in the inter-user variability, employing the convolutional neural network for the deep feature learning, trained by different users. In our experimental results, the proposed method predicted hand movement intention more accurately than a competing method.
MOT1 Can Activate Basal Transcription In Vitro by Regulating the Distribution of TATA Binding Protein between Promoter and Nonpromoter Sites

ABSTRACT MOT1 is an ATPase which can dissociate TATA binding protein (TBP)-DNA complexes in a reaction requiring ATP hydrolysis. Consistent with this observation, MOT1 can repress basal transcription in vitro. Paradoxically, however, some genes, such as HIS4, appear to require MOT1 as an activator of transcription in vivo. To further investigate the function of MOT1 in basal transcription, we performed in vitro transcription reactions using yeast nuclear extracts depleted of MOT1. Quantitation of MOT1 revealed that it is an abundant protein, with nuclear extracts from wild-type cells containing a molar excess of MOT1 over TBP. Surprisingly, MOT1 can weakly activate basal transcription in vitro. This activation by MOT1 is detectable with amounts of MOT1 that are approximately stoichiometric to TBP. With amounts of MOT1 similar to those present in wild-type nuclear extracts, MOT1 behaves as a weak repressor of basal transcription. These results suggest that MOT1 might activate transcription via an indirect mechanism in which limiting TBP can be liberated from nonpromoter sites for use at promoters. In support of this idea, excess nonpromoter DNA sequesters TBP and represses transcription, but this effect can be reversed by addition of MOT1. These results help to reconcile previous in vitro and in vivo results and expand the repertoire of transcriptional control strategies to include factor-assisted redistribution of TBP between promoter and nonpromoter sites.
A frequency domain blind signal separation method based on decorrelation

This paper addresses the issue of separating multiple speakers from mixtures of these that are obtained using multiple microphones in a room. An adaptive blind signal separation algorithm, which is entirely based on second-order statistics, is derived. One of the advantages of this algorithm is that no parameters need to be tuned. Moreover, an extension of the algorithm that can simultaneously deal with blind signal separation and echo cancellation is derived. Experiments with real recordings have been carried out, showing the effectiveness of the algorithm for real-world signals.
The benefits of inpatient diabetes care: improving quality of care and the bottom line.

OBJECTIVE To analyze the impact of a hospital-wide inpatient diabetes management program on quality of care, length of stay, and cost. METHODS A retrospective review was conducted for diabetes identification and treatment in a large tertiary care hospital in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Cultural change was accomplished by educating the healthcare professionals and medical staff. Systems were implemented to better identify patients with diabetes and to focus on quality improvement. Protocols were developed and implemented as tools for improving care. Results were monitored, and quality of care was assessed by examining lengths of stay and financial outcomes. RESULTS Hospital-wide training, earlier identification of patients with diabetes, and the implementation of inpatient protocols had positive results on both quality of care and the hospital's bottom line. More patients with diabetes were identified earlier in their stays, care was managed effectively to reduce blood glucose levels, lengths of stay were reduced, and coding was improved to more accurately reflect the complexity of care provided. CONCLUSION By increasing diabetes awareness hospital-wide and implementing effective identification and management systems, hospitals are well positioned to provide higher-quality diabetes care, which also translates into a positive impact on the bottom line.
Transdiaphragmatic rupture of hepatic abscess producing purulent pericarditis and pericardial tamponade.

A 44-year-old homeless male presented to the emergency department with a 6-hour history of pleuritic chest pain, shortness of breath, and generalized weakness. He had an episode of acute cholecystitis 2 years prior, for which he received a cholecystostomy tube and intravenous antibiotics at another hospital. He had been scheduled in clinic for tube removal and elective cholecystectomy, but he had not shown up for his appointment. The tube had remained in place, and he continued to manually drain the cholecystostomy bag once a day for the past 2 years. On review of systems, we noted low-grade fever with night sweats, progressive abdominal distention, and intermittent abdominal discomfort. In the emergency department, he was tachycardic and hypotensive. Marked jugular venous distension, faint heart sounds, clear lungs, and a distended diffusely tender abdomen with a protruding cholecystostomy tube were noted on examination. The ECG showed sinus tachycardia and diffuse ST segment elevation and PR segment …
Primary care patients with musculoskeletal pain

Objective - To investigate long-term sick leave among primary care patients with musculoskeletal disorders and the predictive value of health-status and sense-of-coherence measures. Methods - Patients aged 17 to 64 years who, during seven weeks, attended one of six primary care centers because of non-traumatic musculoskeletal pain and who completed the SF-36 health questionnaire and the sense of coherence (SOC) scale at baseline and after one year. Results - Of 189 patients, 36 (19%) were sicklisted for at least three months before and/or after their visit; the most common diagnoses were non-specific soft-tissue or multiple joint, low back, and shoulder pain. The long-term sicklisted patients had significantly worse baseline SF-36 and SOC scores than the non-sicklisted patients; moderate improvement in the SF-36 bodily pain but no improvement in the physical functioning scores occurred. The duration of sick leave at baseline and the SF-36 bodily pain score were significant predictors of continuos one-year work disability. Conclusion - Long-term sick leave was common among primary care patients with musculoskeletal pain. The physical functioning and return-to-work outcomes after one year were poor. The SF-36 bodily pain scale might be helpful in identifying at risk patients.
Two types of movement-related cortical potentials preceding wrist extension in humans

We compared the occurrence patterns of movement-related cortical potentials (MRCPs) preceding wrist extension in athletes (kendoists and gymnasts) and non-athletes. The MRCPs of the non-athletes started ∼1.5 s before the EMG onset of wrist extension. In the athletes, the duration of the MRCPs was shorter and the amplitudes of early component (Bereitschaftspotential) were smaller than in the non-athletes. The MRCPs in the athletes started ∼400 ms before the onset of wrist extension and increased rapidly. In topographical maps, MRCPs of the athletes were localized markedly on the contralateral motor area (C3) compared with the non-athletes. In the present study, the duration of MRCPs was classified into two types.
Image-guided high-dose-rate brachytherapy of head and neck – a case series study

Purpose The aim of the study was the evaluation of image guided transdermal application of interstitial brachytherapy in patients undergoing repeated irradiation for relapsed local tumor of the head and neck area. Material and methods The article describes transdermal application of interstitial high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy in 4 patients treated due to relapsed local tumor in soft palate, submandibular area, laryngopharynx, as well as pterygoid muscles and maxillary sinus. The application was conducted under continuous computed tomography (CT)-image guidance (CT fluoroscopy). Patients qualified for this type of treatment had neoplastic lesions located deep under the skin surface. Because of their location, access to the lesions was limited, and the risk of damaging the adjacent tissues such as vessels and nerves was high. The following parameters have been evaluated: clinical response using RECIST 1.1, incidence of perisurgical complications using CTCAE 4.0 and the frequency of occurrence of radiotherapy related early morbidity using RTOG. Results Various radiation schemes were used, from 3 to 5 fractions of 3.5-5 Gy. The median total dose (D90) was 20.6 Gy. Biologic effective dose (BED) and equivalent 2 Gy (DEQ2) median doses were 30.4 Gy and 25.3 Gy, respectively. In the follow-up period of 3-7 months (the median value of 3.5 months), 2 patients had partial regression of the disease and in 2 others the neoplastic process was stabilized. None of the patients had serious complications of treatment (of 3rd degree or higher). Conclusions Computed tomography-image guided brachytherapy proved to be a safe method of treatment in patients with local relapse in sites, in which traditional visually controlled application was impossible due to risk of complications. Despite short observation period and small study group, it seems justified to conduct prospective studies for the evaluation of efficacy and safety of CT-image guided brachytherapy.
Synthetic LXR agonist attenuates plaque formation in apoE-/- mice without inducing liver steatosis and hypertriglyceridemia*s⃞

Liver X receptors (LXRs) are important regulators of cholesterol and lipid metabolism. LXR agonists have been shown to limit the cellular cholesterol content by inducing reverse cholesterol transport, increasing bile acid production, and inhibiting intestinal cholesterol absorption. Most of them, however, also increase lipogenesis via sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP1c) and carbohydrate response element-binding protein activation resulting in hypertriglyceridemia and liver steatosis. We report on the antiatherogenic properties of the steroidal liver X receptor agonist N,N-dimethyl-3β-hydroxy-cholenamide (DMHCA) in apolipoprotein E (apoE)-deficient mice. Long-term administration of DMHCA (11 weeks) significantly reduced lesion formation in male and female apoE-null mice. Notably, DMHCA neither increased hepatic triglyceride (TG) levels in male nor female apoE-deficient mice. ATP binding cassette transporter A1 and G1 and cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase mRNA abundances were increased, whereas SREBP1c mRNA expression was unchanged in liver, and even decreased in macrophages and intestine. Short-term treatment revealed even higher changes on mRNA regulation. Our data provide evidence that DMHCA is a strong candidate as therapeutic agent for the treatment or prevention of atherosclerosis, circumventing the negative side effects of other LXR agonists.
You can't pay me to quit: the failure of financial incentives for smoking cessation in head and neck cancer patients

Abstract Objective: A prospective randomised study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital to evaluate the effects of financial incentives for smoking cessation targeted at a high-risk population. Methods: Patients with a past history of head and neck cancer were voluntarily enrolled over a two-year period. They were randomised to a cash incentives or no incentive group. Subjects were offered enrolment in smoking cessation courses. Smoking by-product levels were assessed at 30 days, 3 months and 6 months. Subjects in the incentive group received $150 if smoking cessation was confirmed. Results: Over 2 years, 114 patients with an established diagnosis of head and neck cancer were offered enrolment. Twenty-four enrolled and 14 attended the smoking cessation classes. Only two successfully quit smoking at six months. Both these patients were in the financially incentivised group and received $150 at each test visit. Conclusion: Providing a financial incentive for smoking cessation to a population already carrying a diagnosis of head and neck cancer in order to promote a positive behaviour change was unsuccessful.
Prognostic significance of plasma scatter factor/hepatocyte growth factor levels in patients with metastatic hormone- refractory prostate cancer: results from cancer and leukemia group B 150005/9480.

BACKGROUND Scatter factor, also known as hepatocyte growth factor (SF/HGF), is a polypeptide growth factor thought to be important in the growth and spread of prostatic carcinoma. PATIENTS AND METHODS Scatter factor/HGF levels in pretreatment plasma samples from 171 men with metastatic hormone-refractory prostate cancer enrolled in CALGB 9480 were quantified by solid-phase, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS The Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the prognostic importance of SF/HGF with adjustment for established prognostic factors. Median SF/HGF was 991 pg/mL (range, 212-2733 pg/mL). In a univariate analysis, although plasma SF/HGF levels above versus below the median value did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.0862), the cutoff point of > 935 pg/mL was associated with a significant reduction in overall survival (P = 0.0334). Patients with SF/HGF levels > 935 pg/mL experienced a median survival of 15 months compared with 19 months for men with SF/HGF levels < or = 935 pg/mL. In a multivariate analysis, adjusting for SF/HGF, prostate-specific antigen, lactate dehydrogenase, and performance status, only plasma alkaline phosphatase was significantly associated with overall survival (hazard ratio, 1.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-2.5; P = 0.0017). CONCLUSION Higher plasma levels of SF/HGF in men with hormone-refractory prostate cancer are associated with a decreased patient survival. Currently, SF/HGF levels do not appear to be of value as a contributor to multivariate models for prediction of outcome, but the association with decreased survival suggests that SF/HGF might be a potential target for therapy.
Factors involved in making post-performance judgments in mathematics problem-solving.

BACKGROUND This study examines the impact of executive functions, affective-motivational variables related to mathematics, mathematics achievement and task characteristics on fifth and sixth graders’ calibration accuracy after completing two mathematical problems. METHOD A sample of 188 students took part in the study. They were divided into two groups as function of their judgment accuracy after completing the two tasks (accurate= 79, inaccurate= 109). Differences between these groups were examined. The discriminative value of these variables to predict group membership was analyzed, as well as the effect of age, gender, and grade level. RESULTS The results indicated that accurate students showed better levels of executive functioning, and more positive feelings, beliefs, and motivation related to mathematics. They also spent more time on the tasks. Mathematics achievement, perceived usefulness of mathematics, and time spent on Task 1 significantly predicted group membership, classifying 71.3% of the sample correctly. CONCLUSIONS These results support the relationship between academic achievement and calibration accuracy, suggesting the need to consider a wide range of factors when explaining performance judgments.
Optimal Side Lobes under Linear and Faster-than-Nyquist Modulation

We minimize the frequency and time occupancy of multicarrier binary linear modulation based on two-dimensional faster than Nyquist (FTN) signaling. FTN analysis provides the asymptotic time-frequency consumption per bit and prolate spheroidal wave analysis minimizes the side lobe occupancy. For both problems, an excellent choice is a Gaussian pulse, with some adjustment of the side lobes.