Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Long-term outcome of seropositive HIV patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

AIM To report the outcome of radiation therapy (RT) +/- chemotherapy in HIV-seropositive patients with Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC). PATIENTS AND METHODS This is the largest single-Institution retrospective study to date, consisting of 73 HIV patients with HNSCC treated from January 1997-2010. The median age at RT, HIV diagnosis and the duration of patients being HIV seropositive were 51, 34, and 11 years, respectively. Seventy patients had SCC and one had submandibular salivary duct carcinoma. Stages I-II, III and IVA/B were: 22%, 27% and 51%, respectively. Primary cancer sites comprised the larynx (37%), oropharynx (32%), oral cavity (13%), hypopharynx (7%), nasopharynx (4%), unknown primary (MUP) (4%), nasal cavity (3%), and submandibular salivary duct (1%). All patients had an ECOG performance scale of ≤1 and were treated with RT +/- chemotherapy. Fifty patients (70%) were on highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) during treatment, and the median CD4 count was 290 (range: 203-1142). Median dose of 70, 63, and 54 Gy were delivered to the gross disease, high-risk neck, and low-risk neck respectively. Median duration of treatment was 52 (range: 49-64) days. Twelve patients (17%) underwent neck dissection for N3 disease. RESULTS After a median follow-up of 47 months (range: 7-140), the 4-year locoregional control (LRC) and overall survival (OS) were 69% and 55% respectively. Seven patients (10%) developed second primary sites within the first 5 years of completing RT (2 anal SCCs and 5 HNSCCs). The LRC for Stages III/IV larynx and oropharynx SCC (which represent the majority of the cohort) were 76% and 70%, respectively. Chemo/RT-related late toxicities were dysphagia of grade≤2, 3, and 4 found in 74%, 15% and 11% of patients, respectively. Hoarseness (grade 1) was reported in 10% of patients; no patient experienced grade ≥2. Xerostomia grade ≤2, and 3 was found in 77% and 23% of patients, respectively. A Chi-square test and univariate analysis showed statistically significant relationships between LRC and duration of RT (p<0.001), as well as positive trends for weight loss (<10%) and absence of second malignancy. CONCLUSION Definitive RT +/- chemotherapy for HIV-seropositive patients with HNSCC appears to be less effective compared to the observed rates of LRC and OS of other HNSCC without HIV. Due to advances in the HAART which prolongs HIV patients' survival, it is extremely important to establish better treatment strategies to improve therapeutic ratio in this growing patient population.
Autophagy is activated by proteasomal inhibition and involved in aggresome clearance in cultured astrocytes

A common pathway underlying a variety of neurodegenerative disorders is the aggregation and deposition of misfolded proteins. Proteasomal inhibition has been demonstrated to promote the formation of intracellular inclusions. We have shown before that astrocytes respond to the treatment with the proteasome inhibitor MG‐132 by aggresome formation and cytoskeletal disturbances, but unlike oligodendrocytes do not die by apoptotic cell death and have the capability to recover. This study was undertaken to elucidate if the autophagy‐lysosomal pathway participates in the efficient recovery process in astrocytes and is modulated under conditions of proteasomal inhibition. The data show that the autophagic pathway was stimulated during a 24‐h treatment with the proteasome inhibitor MG‐132 in a time and concentration‐dependent manner. It remained at an elevated level throughout a 24‐h recovery period in the absence of MG‐132 and participates in the aggregate clearing process. In the presence of the specific inhibitor of macroautophagy, 3‐methyladenine, cell viability was impaired, aggregates were not as efficiently removed and HSP25, αB‐crystallin and ubiquitinated proteins remained in the insoluble protein fraction. LC3‐II positive puncta, indicative of autophagosomes, were formed abundantly in the cells after proteasome inhibition and were seen in close association with the aggregates. Hence, the ability of astrocytes to upregulate autophagic degradation might contribute to their resistance against proteasomal stress situations and act as a compensatory mechanism when the proteasome is impaired. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Simple Efficient Technique of ‘Mid-Dilution’ On-Line Hemodiafiltration

Background: On-line hemodiafiltration (OL-HDF) with pre- as well as post-dilution reinfusion mode provides superior uremic toxin removal, especially middle uremic toxins, and can improve patient survival. Both standard pre- and post-dilution have limitations. Mid-dilution OL-HDF (Nephros OLpur™) was invented to overcome the disadvantages of both standard modes, but such a cartridge is only available in limited centers and is expensive. Methods: We created a simple technique of mid-dilution OL-HDF that can be easily set up in every hemodialysis center. Twelve stable end-stage renal disease patients were dialyzed in a random sequence with three different infusion modes of OL-HDF (simple mid-dilution, standard pre-dilution and post-dilution). Small molecule, middle molecule, and protein-bound uremic toxin clearances were measured. Results: Simple mid-dilution OL-HDF provided high efficiency in uremic toxin clearances with less protein loss. Conclusion: Simple mid-dilution OL-HDF combines the advantages of pre- and post-dilution modes without adverse effects. Thus, this technique could be useful in decreasing morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis patients.
Critique of Current Genocide Studies

The present article critiques the views that (1) modern genocide does not substantially differ from its historical predecessors, (2) that all genocide is a product of imperialism, and (3) that the study of genocide can be reduced to a study of perpetrators and collaborators, while the testimonies of victims and survivors need not be taken into account. In contrast, this article suggests (1) that there are significant differences between modern or contemporary genocide and the mass murders of the past, (2) that there is no single explanation for genocide since there are different types of genocide that require separate explanations, and (3) that the testimonies of victims and survivors must be taken into account in order to better understand the motives of the perpetrators and bystanders and give victims and survivors a voice in the narrative of destruction.
Pathophysiology of stroke and stroke‐induced retinal ischemia: Emerging role of stem cells

The current review focuses on pathophysiology, animal models and molecular analysis of stroke and retinal ischemia, and the role of stem cells in recovery of these disease conditions. Research findings associated with ischemic stroke and retinal ischemia have been discussed, and efforts towards prevention and limiting the recurrence of ischemic diseases, as well as emerging treatment possibilities with endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in ischemic diseases, are presented. Although most neurological diseases are still not completely understood and reliable treatment is lacking, animal models provide a major step in validating novel therapies. Stem cell approaches constitute an emerging form of cell‐based therapy to treat ischemic diseases since it is an attractive source for regenerative therapy in the ischemic diseases. In this review, we highlight the advantages and limitations of this approach with a focus on key observations from preclinical animal studies and clinical trials. Further research, especially on treatment with EPCs is warranted. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 1269–1279, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Entropy–enthalpy transduction caused by conformational shifts can obscure the forces driving protein–ligand binding

Molecular dynamics simulations of unprecedented duration now can provide new insights into biomolecular mechanisms. Analysis of a 1-ms molecular dynamics simulation of the small protein bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor reveals that its main conformations have different thermodynamic profiles and that perturbation of a single geometric variable, such as a torsion angle or interresidue distance, can select for occupancy of one or another conformational state. These results establish the basis for a mechanism that we term entropy–enthalpy transduction (EET), in which the thermodynamic character of a local perturbation, such as enthalpic binding of a small molecule, is camouflaged by the thermodynamics of a global conformational change induced by the perturbation, such as a switch into a high-entropy conformational state. It is noted that EET could occur in many systems, making measured entropies and enthalpies of folding and binding unreliable indicators of actual thermodynamic driving forces. The same mechanism might also account for the high experimental variance of measured enthalpies and entropies relative to free energies in some calorimetric studies. Finally, EET may be the physical mechanism underlying many cases of entropy–enthalpy compensation.
Serological identification of house dust mite allergens in dogs with atopic dermatitis

Cunha V.E. S. , Silva M.H. & Faccini J.L. H. 2012. Serological identification of house dust mite allergens in dogs with atopic dermatitis. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 32(9):917-921. Departamento de Parasitologia Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, BR 465 Km 7, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: mv.victor@uol.com. br House dust mite antigens have been used for decades to diagnose allergic diseases in humans and animals. The objective of this study was to identify allergens in commercial Dermatophagoides farinae and Blomia tropicalis extracts by immunoblotting using sera from allergic dogs and anti-dog IgE conjugate. The analysis of antigens present in the D. farinae extract (FDA Allergenic) using sera from 10 dogs allergic to D. farinae showed that eight sera recognized a band of approximately 102 kDa, eight recognized two bands of 52 to 76 kDa, five recognized one band of approximately 76 kDa, four recognized one band of 31 to 38 kDa, and two recognized one band of 12 to 17 kDa. Immunoblot assays of the B. tropicalis extract (FDA Allergenic) using sera from 10 animals allergic to B. tropicalis showed that five sera recognized two bands of 52 to 76 kDa. These results demonstrate the importance of the two house dust mite species for the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis in Brazil. In addition, the results indicate which allergens should be present in allergenic extracts used for diagnosis and allergen-specific immunotherapy.
Speech or silence: The effect of user anonymity and member familiarity on the willingness to express opinions in virtual communities

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to extend a traditional communication theory, spiral of silence, to explore the effects of user anonymity and member familiarity on opinion expression behaviour in a virtual environment. Design/methodology/approach – A laboratory experiment method was used to manipulate user anonymity, member familiarity, and opinion congruity to measure the willingness to express opinions concerning controversial topics. Findings – A total of 147 participants were recruited in the experiment. The results revealed that anonymous users in virtual communities and users in groups comprising familiar members are more willing to express inconsistent opinions than non-anonymous users and users in groups containing unfamiliar members, respectively. In addition, anonymous and non-anonymous users as well as users in groups comprising familiar members and those in groups containing unfamiliar members are equally willing to express consistent opinions. Originality/value – This is the first stud.
Using patient self-reports to study heterogeneity of treatment effects in major depressive disorder

Backgrounds. Clinicians need guidance to address the heterogeneity of treatment responses of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). While prediction schemes based on symptom clustering and biomarkers have so far not yielded results of sufficient strength to inform clinical decision-making, prediction schemes based on big data predictive analytic models might be more practically useful. Method. We review evidence suggesting that prediction equations based on symptoms and other easily-assessed clinical features found in previous research to predict MDD treatment outcomes might provide a foundation for developing predictive analytic clinical decision support models that could help clinicians select optimal (personalised) MDD treatments. These methods could also be useful in targeting patient subsamples for more expensive biomarker assessments. Results. Approximately two dozen baseline variables obtained from medical records or patient reports have been found repeatedly in MDD treatment trials to predict overall treatment outcomes (i.e., intervention v. control) or differential treatment outcomes (i.e., intervention A v. intervention B). Similar evidence has been found in observational studies of MDD persistence-severity. However, no treatment studies have yet attempted to develop treatment outcome equations using the full set of these predictors. Promising preliminary empirical results coupled with recent developments in statistical methodology suggest that models could be developed to provide useful clinical decision support in personalised treatment selection. These tools could also provide a strong foundation to increase statistical power in focused studies of biomarkers and MDD heterogeneity of treatment response in subsequent controlled trials. Conclusions. Coordinated efforts are needed to develop a protocol for systematically collecting information about established predictors of heterogeneity of MDD treatment response in large observational treatment studies, applying and refining these models in subsequent pragmatic trials, carrying out pooled secondary analyses to extract the maximum amount of information from these coordinated studies, and using this information to focus future discovery efforts in the segment of the patient population in which continued uncertainty about treatment response exists.
Replication: Challenges in Using Data Logs to Validate Phishing Detection Ability Metrics

The Security Behavior Observatory (SBO) is a longitudinal fieldstudy of computer security habits that provides a novel dataset for validating computer security metrics. This paper demonstrates a new strategy for validating phishing detection ability metrics by comparing performance on a phishing signal detection task with data logs found in the SBO. We report: (1) a test of the robustness of performance on the signal detection task by replicating Canfield, Fischhoff, and Davis (2016), (2) an assessment of the task's construct validity, and (3) evaluation of its predictive validity using data logs. We find that members of the SBO sample had similar signal detection ability compared to members of the previous mTurk sample and that performance on the task correlated with the Security Behavior Intentions Scale (SeBIS). However, there was no evidence of predictive validity, as the signal detection task performance was unrelated to computer security outcomes in the SBO, including the presence of malicious software, URLs, and files. We discuss the implications of these findings and the challenges of comparing behavior on structured experimental tasks to behavior in complex real-world settings.
Fungus-associated asthma: overcoming challenges in diagnosis and treatment

With regard to fungal colonization and fungal sensitization, the goals of fungus-associated asthma management are as follows: 1) to survey fungi colonizing the airways of patients repeatedly; 2) to evaluate the tendency of the colonizing fungi to sensitize patients and the influence on clinical manifestations of asthma; 3) to follow disease development to allergic bronchopulmonary mycosis or sinobronchial allergic mycosis; and 4) to determine whether fungal eradication from the airway of patients is beneficial from the viewpoints of future risk factors. Recent developments in molecular biological analyses have facilitated the identification of basidiomycetous fungi that were not previously thought to be of concern in fungal allergy. The total control of fungus-associated asthma will be accomplished by environmental management established from the viewpoint of both the ecology and life cycle of the responsible fungi.
Evolutionary trajectories of the nanotechnology research across worldwide economic players

The purpose of this paper is to analyse, by concentration measures and metrics of heterogeneity, the evolutionary trajectories of scientific output in nanotechnology research across worldwide economic players. The results show that the concentration in nanotechnology research has been reducing over time and space. In particular, the pattern of nanotechnology research has been spreading among different scientific domains and pathways, generating new technological paradigms mainly in chemistry, medicine and engineering research fields. This scientific analysis is important in order to explore the current knowledge growth and technological trajectories in nanotechnology research that may support future patterns of technological innovation.
Two alien species of Branchiobdellida (Annelida: Clitellata) new to the British Isles: a morphological and molecular study

Freshwater ecosystems are particularly vulnerable to the effects of alien species and decapod crustaceans, notably crayfish, are a principal threat. Although symbiotic fauna may influence the impact and dispersal of introduced species, this is often overlooked. Here we provide the first record of non-native ecto-symbiotic branchiobdellidan worms on invasive signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus Dana, 1852) in the British Isles. Using morphological and molecular techniques we identified and re-described two branchiobdellidan species new to the UK, Xironogiton victoriensis Gelder and Hall, 1990 and Cambarincola aff. okadai Yamaguchi, 1933, both of which were found at a single location in the Gavenny River, South Wales. The prevalence of X. victoriensis and C. aff. okadai was 75.34% and 71.23% respectively. Although the level of X. victoriensis and C. aff. okadai co-infection was high at 75.41% of all infected animals, the two species exhibited different micro-habitat preferences on the host with the former being found predominantly on the chelae and walking legs and the latter on the carapace and abdomen. For both branchiobdellidan species, worm burdens were positively correlated with crayfish size. The lack of branchiobdellidan records from signal crayfish in nearby water bodies, and the reports of native white clawed crayfish ( Austropotamobius pallipes) in the Gavenny as recently as 2000, indicates that introduction of this worm infested population occurred relatively recently, despite stringent legislation banning the import and transportation of non-native crayfish into the UK.
Factors associated with noninvasive ventilation failure in postoperative acute respiratory insufficiency: an observational study

Background and objective Few data are available on the efficacy of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in postoperative patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF). Methods Seventy-two patients coming from the surgical wards with postoperative ARF were retrospectively evaluated. The major characteristics of patients who were intubated were compared with the characteristics of those who were not after a trial of NIV. Predictive factors for failure of NIV were analysed. Results Out of 72 patients with ARF after surgery who were treated with NIV, 42 avoided intubation (58%). On a univariate analysis, a decrease in the paO2/FiO2 ratio after 1 h of NIV (223 ± 84 to 160 ± 68 mmHg, P < 0.05) was associated with NIV failure and need for tracheal intubation because of nosocomial pneumonia and an increased simplified acute physiology score (SAPS) 2. In a multivariate analysis, nosocomial pneumonia [odds ratio (OR) 4.189; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.383–12.687] and SAPS 2 higher than 35 (OR 4.969; 95% CI 1.627–15.172) were independent predictive factors of NIV failure. NIV success was associated with a reduced ICU stay (16.8 vs. 26.1 days, P < 0.001). Conclusion NIV could be considered in postoperative patients who presented with ARF. Nosocomial pneumonia is predictive of NIV failure.
THE MALACOARCHAEOLOGY OF PALAWAN ISLAND

Archaeological excavations from 1968-1970 at Pilanduk Cave and Sa'gung Rockshelter on Palawan Island, the Philippines, yielded rich molluscan faunal remains, with over seventy species represented. Local Pala'nun and Tagbanwa hunter-gatherer informants were used to identify the ecological habitats and micro-environments of each molluscan species. Changes in the percentages of species represented through the time period of the use of these sites (late Pleistocene and early post-Pleistocene) reveal changes in mollusk exploitation patterns, some of which reflect adjustments to drastic alterations in the local environment and topography brought on by the rise in sea level at the end of the Pleistocene.The statistical analysis of the molluscan fauna reveals a shift at this time period from fresh water and land mollusks in the diet to species from estuarine and mangrove associated environments.
Risk of Kidney Injury among Construction Workers Exposed to Heat Stress: A Longitudinal Study from Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia (SA) is one of the hottest countries in the world. This study was conducted to assess the impact of summer heat stress in Southeastern SA on short-term kidney injury (KI) among building construction workers and to identify relevant risk factors. Measurements of urinary albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR), height, weight, hydration, symptoms, daily work and behavioral factors were collected in June and September of 2016 from a cohort of construction workers (n = 65) in Al-Ahsa Province, SA. KI was defined as ACR ≥ 30 mg/g. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to assess factors related to cross-summer changes in ACR. A significant increase in ACR occurred among most workers over the study period; incidence of KI was 18%. Risk factors associated with an increased ACR included dehydration, short sleep, and obesity. The findings suggest that exposure to summer heat may lead to the development of KI among construction workers in this region. Adequate hydration and promotion of healthy habits among workers may help reduce the risk of KI. A reduction in work hours may be the most effective intervention because this action can reduce heat exposure and improve sleep quality.