Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cryo‐electron microscopy and three‐dimensional reconstruction of actin filaments

Actin filaments have been examined by electron microscopy whilst in a frozen‐hydrated state. Filaments embedded in a vitreous water layer are basically similar to those prepared by negative staining and show characteristic helical substructure, where the pitches of the helices are about 70 nm and 6 nm. Variability in spacing between long pitch helix cross‐over points has been observed, which is consistent with intrinsic angular disorder between successive filament subunits. Fourier transforms of the most ordered filaments show four strong layer lines that index as the first, fifth, sixth and seventh orders of a 35 nm repeat. A three‐dimensional helical reconstruction, calculated to a resolution of about 4 nm, shows the individual subunits to be orientated with their long axes roughly perpendicular to the filament axis. Each subunit is somewhat curved and is resolved into two domains. Most connections between successive subunits appear to be made close to the filament axis. We also report on the performance of the specimen holder (Philips PW 5699) used in this work.
BRCA in breast cancer: ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines.

BRCA in breast cancer: ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines J. Balmana, O. Diez, I. Rubio & M. Castiglione On behalf of the ESMO Guidelines Working Group* Department of Medical Oncology; Oncogenetics Laboratory, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron; Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO); Breast Cancer Surgical Unit, Breast Cancer Center, University Hospital Vall d’Hebron, Barcelona, Spain; RGT, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
Selective Degradation of Cytosolic Proteins by Lysosomes a

Lysosomes are able to internalize cellular proteins in a variety of ways. One pathway is selective for cytosolic proteins containing peptide sequences biochemically related to Lys-Phe-Glu-Arg-Gln (KFERQ). This pathway is activated in confluent monolayers of cultured cells in response to deprivation of serum growth factors and applies to approximately 30% of cytosolic proteins. We have reconstituted this lysosomal degradation pathway in vitro. Uptake and/or degradation is stimulated by ATP and a member of the heat shock 70-kilodalton protein family, the 73-kilodalton constitutive heat shock protein. Several possible mechanisms of selective protein transport into lysosomes and the possible relevance of this proteolytic pathway to the processing of the amyloid precursor protein are discussed.
Activation of peripheral-blood granulocytes is strongly correlated with patient outcome after immunotherapy with anti-GD2 monoclonal antibody and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor.

PURPOSE Adjuvant therapy using anti-GD2 monoclonal antibody and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) has shown treatment success for patients with high-risk neuroblastoma (NB). Although there is ample evidence on how the antibody targets NB, in vivo contribution by GM-CSF remains unclear. This report investigates granulocyte activation and its correlation with treatment outcome. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients enrolled onto NCT00072358 received multiple treatment cycles, each consisting of anti-GD2 antibody 3F8 plus subcutaneous (SC) GM-CSF. Peripheral-blood (PB) samples from 151 patients were collected on day 0 and day 4 of cycle 1. PB from a subgroup of 35 patients had intravenous (IV) instead of SC GM-CSF during cycle 4. Samples were analyzed by flow cytometry for CD11a, CD63, CD87, and CD11b and its activation epitope CBRM1/5. RESULTS Comparing cycle 1 day 4 PB samples with day 0 PB samples, five of five activation marker-positive granulocytes were significantly higher. The change in frequency and mean fluorescence intensity of CBRM1/5-positive granulocytes correlated with progression-free survival (PFS; P = .024 and P = .008, respectively). A multivariable analysis identified increasing CBRM1/5-positive granulocytes and missing killer immunoglobulin-like receptor ligand as positive independent prognostic factors for PFS, whereas second-line cyclophosphamide-based therapy before protocol entry negatively influenced outcome. Thirty-five patients who received SC GM-CSF at cycle 1 and IV GM-CSF at cycle 4 had significantly less CBRM1/5 activation after IV GM-CSF. In contrast, 63 patients who received SC GM-CSF at both cycles had comparable CBRM1/5 activation. CONCLUSION GM-CSF-induced granulocyte activation in vivo is associated with improved patient outcome. This activation was more apparent when GM-CSF was given by the SC route instead of IV route.
The Impact of Communication on Workers’ Performance in Selected Organisations in Lagos State, Nigeria

In today’s world, communication is an important component of organisation activity. Because the global world has become widespread, most organisations need to meet their needs with a lower resource moral through communication. This study examines the significant relationship between communication and workers’ performance in some selected organisations in Lagos State, Nigeria. Data for the study were collected through questionnaire with sample population of 120 respondents. The result of this study reveals that a relationship exists between effective communication and workers’ performance, productivity and commitment. The study recommended that managers will need to communicate with employees regularly to improve workers commitment and performance.
Activated Liver X Receptors Stimulate Adipocyte Differentiation through Induction of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ Expression

ABSTRACT Liver X receptors (LXRs) are nuclear hormone receptors that regulate cholesterol and fatty acid metabolism in liver tissue and in macrophages. Although LXR activation enhances lipogenesis, it is not well understood whether LXRs are involved in adipocyte differentiation. Here, we show that LXR activation stimulated the execution of adipogenesis, as determined by lipid droplet accumulation and adipocyte-specific gene expression in vivo and in vitro. In adipocytes, LXR activation with T0901317 primarily enhanced the expression of lipogenic genes such as the ADD1/SREBP1c and FAS genes and substantially increased the expression of the adipocyte-specific genes encoding PPARγ (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ) and aP2. Administration of the LXR agonist T0901317 to lean mice promoted the expression of most lipogenic and adipogenic genes in fat and liver tissues. It is of interest that the PPARγ gene is a novel target gene of LXR, since the PPARγ promoter contains the conserved binding site of LXR and was transactivated by the expression of LXRα. Moreover, activated LXRα exhibited an increase of DNA binding to its target gene promoters, such as ADD1/SREBP1c and PPARγ, which appeared to be closely associated with hyperacetylation of histone H3 in the promoter regions of those genes. Furthermore, the suppression of LXRα by small interfering RNA attenuated adipocyte differentiation. Taken together, these results suggest that LXR plays a role in the execution of adipocyte differentiation by regulation of lipogenesis and adipocyte-specific gene expression.
BIFURCATION ANALYSIS OF ELLIPTIC EQUATIONS DESCRIBED BY NONHOMOGENEOUS DIFFERENTIAL OPERATORS

In this article, we are concerned with a class of nonlinear partial differential elliptic equations with Dirichlet boundary data. The key feature of this paper consists in competition effects of two generalized differential operators, which extend the standard operators with variable exponent. This class of problems is motivated by phenomena arising in non-Newtonian fluids or image reconstruction, which deal with operators and nonlinearities with variable exponents. We establish an existence property in the framework of small perturbations of the reaction term with indefinite potential. The mathematical analysis developed in this paper is based on the theory of anisotropic function spaces. Our analysis combines variational arguments with energy estimates.
Association of Hepatitis C With Markers of Hemostasis In HIV-Infected and Uninfected Women in the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS)

Background:Coinfection with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) is common. HIV infection and treatment are associated with hypercoagulability; thrombosis in HCV is underinvestigated. Proposed markers of hemostasis in HIV include higher D-dimer, Factor VIII%, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) antigen and lower total Protein S% (TPS) but have not been examined in HCV. We assessed the independent association of HCV with these 4 measures of hemostasis in a multicenter, prospective study of HIV: the Women's Interagency HIV Study. Methods:We randomly selected 450 HCV-infected (anti-HCV+ with detectable plasma HCV RNA) and 450 HCV-uninfected (anti-HCV−) women. HCV was the main exposure of interest in regression models. Results:Four hundred forty-three HCV+ and 425 HCV− women were included. HCV+ women had higher Factor VIII% (124.4% ± 3.9% vs. 101.8% ± 3.7%, P < 0.001) and lower TPS (75.7% ± 1.1% vs. 84.3% ± 1.1%, <0.001) than HCV− women, independent of HIV infection and viral load; there was little difference in PAI-1 or log10 D-dimer. After adjustment for confounders, these inferences remained. HIV infection was independently associated with higher Factor VIII% and log10 D-dimer and lower TPS. Conclusions:HCV was independently associated with higher Factor VIII% and lower TPS consistent with hypercoagulability. Higher Factor VIII% and D-dimer and lower TPS were also strongly associated with HIV infection and levels of HIV viremia, independent of HCV infection. Further investigation is needed to determine if there is increased thrombotic risk from HCV. Studies examining hemostasis markers in HIV infection must also assess the contribution of HCV infection.
A Conceptual Analysis of Standard Setting in Large-Scale Assessments. Research Report 94-3.

Elements of arbitrariness in the standard setting process are explored, and an alternative to the use of cut scores is presented. The first part of the paper analyzes the use of cut scores in large-scale assessments, discussing three different functions: (1) cut scores define the qualifications used in assessments; (2) they simplify the reporting of achievement distributions; and (3) they allow for the setting of targets for such distributions. The second part of the paper gives a decision-theoretic alternative to the use of cut scores and shows how each of the three functions identified in the first part can be approached in a way that may reduce some of the arbitrary nature of standard setting processes. The third part of the paper formulates criteria for standard setting methods that can be used to evaluate their results.
A Versatile Cell Contractility Mapping Transducer Utilizing Moiré-Based Technique

The mapping of contraction forces developed from cells to their extracellular matrix is crucial to understanding how cells regulate their physiological function to adapt to their living environment and cellular processes. This paper reports a novel cell contractility mapping transducer utilizing moiré patterns as a visual and quantitative tool. Coherent light diffracted from two closely placed microfabricated periodic substrates is capable of mapping cell contraction forces via mapping the in-plane displacement on the sample substrate. By integrating cell culture environment and automated Fourier-based fringe analysis, the moiré pattern generated through microfabricated periodic substrates enables the mapping of cell contraction force distribution through phase changes encoded in carrier moiré fringe patterns. We demonstrated utilizing the transducer to map cardiac myocyte contraction under electric stimulation and vascular smooth muscle cell contractility evolutions triggered by agonist. Given the unique properties of optical moiré techniques (i.e., their automatic displacement and strain contouring and their magnification effect for small displacements), this new approach would be an improvement over existing techniques since it can be integrated with the existing engineered substrates and provide a direct contour of cell forces and fast detection of abnormal cell contractions.
Attack scenarios and security analysis of MQTT communication protocol in IoT system

Various communication protocols are currently used in the Internet of Things (IoT) devices. One of the protocols that are already standardized by ISO is MQTT protocol (ISO / IEC 20922: 2016). Many IoT developers use this protocol because of its minimal bandwidth requirement and low memory consumption. Sometimes, IoT device sends confidential data that should only be accessed by authorized people or devices. Unfortunately, the MQTT protocol only provides authentication for the security mechanism which, by default, does not encrypt the data in transit thus data privacy, authentication, and data integrity become problems in MQTT implementation. This paper discusses several reasons on why there are many IoT system that does not implement adequate security mechanism. Next, it also demonstrates and analyzes how we can attack this protocol easily using several attack scenarios. Finally, after the vulnerabilities of this protocol have been examined, we can improve our security awareness especially in MQTT protocol and then implement security mechanism in our MQTT system to prevent such attack.
Motivational design cards: a practical approach for game-based motivational design at the workplace

Game based approaches and especially gamification are an emerging topic within the field of motivational design at the workplace. The motivational potential of games was suggested to be based in motivational psychology. So far this is an active field of research and has not been established in theory. Only limited research on actual design practices and tools is available. In this paper we present empirical results of 28 interviews conducted on workplace motivation and player motivation practices in game design. Hence, we suggest a design card deck connecting the two disciplines. The work aims to support the idea and creation processes of game related motivational design tasks in enterprises and raise awareness for the individuals' needs and motivations. Reflections with field experts and a focus group test resulted in useful suggestions for further development.
Objective accommodation measurement of the Crystalens HD compared to monofocal intraocular lenses.

PURPOSE Objective evaluation of accommodation with a bilateral accommodating intraocular lens (IOL) versus monofocal IOLs. METHODS Patients received accommodating IOL (Crystalens HD; Bausch & Lomb, Rochester, NY) bilaterally after cataract surgery. These were compared to a matched group receiving monofocal IOLs. Preoperative and postoperative distance corrected distance, intermediate, and near vision were evaluated. Objective accommodation was measured with the WAM-5500 Binocular Autorefractor/Keratometer (Grand Seiko, Pty Ltd., Hiroshima, Japan). RESULTS Nineteen patients were included. Ten received the Crystalens HD in both eyes and nine received one of three monofocal lenses in each eye. Mean postoperative distance corrected distance visual acuity was not statistically different between the two groups. Mean distance corrected intermediate vision was better in the Crystalens HD group (logMAR 0.24 ± 0.11 [control], logMAR 0.11 ± 0.10 [Crystalens HD], P = .033). The groups did not differ significantly for mean distance corrected near vision (logMAR 0.54 ± 0.12 [control], logMAR 0.42 ± 0.15 [Crystalens HD], P = .087). However, a significantly greater proportion of Crystalens HD eyes achieved 0.4 or 0.3 logMAR for near wearing their distance correction (P = .013). With distance correction, the mean spherical equivalent failed to show any myopia with accommodative effort in either group. Low contrast and low luminance contrast acuity were not significantly different. CONCLUSION The Crystalens HD showed some benefit for intermediate visual function compared to the monofocal IOLs with both groups wearing full correction for distance. There were no significant signs of accommodation in either group.
Clinical, Histological and Prognosis Correlations in Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastric Cancer

Purpose The study authors have proposed to highlight the main epidemiologic and prognostic aspects of digestive malignancies in the Dolj county population, justifying the need for permanent and detailed estimate of this phenomenon. Methods The authors of the study have proposed to outline a descriptive epidemiological panel, characteristic for the population groups at risk of developing gastric cancers and establishing clinical factors (tumor location, disease stage, type of surgery) and histological factors (histopathological type, degree of tumor differentiation) with prognostic significance having as landmark, survival rate at 5 years or disease-free survival of 5 years. Results The study was conducted on a sample of 458 patients with gastric tumors endoscopically detected, histologically confirmed and treated between 2000-2010. The epidemiological study allowed us to outline the descriptive epidemiological panel characteristic for the group of patients at risk of developing gastric cancer. Analysis of correlation between clinical parameters and histopathological parameters reached statistical threshold in multivariate statistical analysis of the localization of tumor, disease stage and histological type (p <0.0001) and the degree of differentiation of gastric carcinomas (p <0.005). Multivariate statistical analysis has detected statistically significant differences in terms of survival rate at 5 years (p> 0.001) and free interval of disease at 5 years (p> 0.001), depending on the location of the tumor, correlated with other clinical factors (disease stage, type of surgery) and histological factors (histopathological type, tumor differentiation grade), which allowed us to outline clinical, histological and prognostic groups. Conclusions Defining the clinical, histological and prognostic groups, allows an accurate assessment of patient prognosis from the time of randomization and initiation of treatment, type of surgery in advanced loco-regional, reconverted to operability, after neoadjuvant polychemotherapy being dictated by the location of the tumor (1/3 superior vs. 1 / 3 medium vs. 1/3 lower stomach).
Caudal mesoderm pattern of anomalies: from renal agenesis to sirenomelia.

The use of 6168 unselected malformed infants, obtained from the Swedish Register of Congenital Malformations during the years 1965–1971, made possible an analysis of a complex of malformations that form a series from the Potter syndrome to sirenomelia. A total of 73 infants belonging to this group were identified among the approximately 550,000 births — an incidence of 1/7500 births. They formed a series from infants with the typical Potter syndrome to typical sirenomelia. Analysis of the association of various malformations indicated til at pulmonary hypoplasia and “Potter face” are not only an effect of oligohydram-nios. A mesodermal damage is postulated as the cause of the complex of malformations. A variable craniocaudal extension of the damage can explain the different expressions of the syndrome. Closure defects of the central nervous system, facial clefts, and congenital heart defects were less common than expected when compared with other infants with multiple malformations. The incidence of these infants born in Sweden has apparently increased over the years. There was also an apparent preponderance of them in central Sweden. Pregnancies ending with the birth of infants with this malformation complex began during summertime more often than could be expected. No exogenous cause was identified.
Compared sensitivity of seedlings from 3 woody species (Quercus robur L, Quercus rubra L and Fagus silvatica L) to water-logging and associated root hypoxia: effects on water relations and photosynthesis

De jeunes plants de chene pedoncule (Quercus robur L), de chene rouge d'Amerique (Q rubra L) et de hetre (Fagus silvatica L) ont ete soumis a un ennoyage total (nappe affleurant en permanence a la surface des pots) ou partiel (nappe a 6 cm sous le niveau du sol) pendant 4 sem. Le premier traitement a fortement perturbe la croissance des plants en provoquant une importante mortalite racinaire. Des dysfonctionnements majeurs ont aussi ete constates sur les parties aeriennes: diminution du potentiel hydrique de base, fermeture des stomates, limitation de l'assimilation nette de CO 2 et de la capacite photosynthetique (mesuree par le degagement d'O 2 en conditions de CO 2 et d'eclairement saturants), reductions irreversibles de l'efficience photochimique du photosysteme II (.)
Recombinant Human Erythropoietin for the Treatment of Anaemia in Patients with Chronic Idiopathic Myelofibrosis

Background: Patients with chronic idiopathic myelofibrosis (CIMF) usually present with anaemia. Treatment is often palliative and the majority of patients receive regular red blood cell (RBC) transfusions. Although recombinant human erythropoietin (rhu-EPO) has been proved effective for the treatment of anaemia in several chronic diseases, including haematological malignancies, its role in the treatment of the anaemia in CIMF is not well established. We report the beneficial effect of rhu-EPO administration in 20 patients with CIMF and discuss the parameters predicting favourable response. Patients: Twenty patients with CIMF (9 women and 11 men) regularly treated with supportive RBC transfusions were included in the study. The median age was 70 years (range 45–81 years). Rhu-EPO, 10,000 U, was given subcutaneously 3 times a week. The median duration of therapy was 83 months, ranging from 13 to 87 months. Results: Treatment was considered effective if haemoglobin levels increased over 2 g/dl within 12 weeks after enrolment or the RBC transfusion requirements were reduced by 50% within the same interval. Twelve patients (60%) responded to therapy. Responders were mainly female, had smaller spleen size (p = 0.024), low RBC transfusion requirements (≤1–2 units per month), and significantly lower endogenous serum erythropoietin (EPO) and β2-microglobulin (β2-M) levels when compared with non-responders (p < 0.0001 and 0.00001, respectively). Treatment was well tolerated and none of the patients was withdrawn from the treatment protocol because of side effects. Conclusions: Rhu-EPO administration is an effective, safe and well-tolerated treatment for patients with CIMF and anaemia leading to a significant reduction in RBC transfusion requirements. Factors predicting favourable response are low endogenous EPO and β2-M serum levels and slight to moderate splenomegaly.
Assessment of Nutritional Knowledge of HIV Positive Adult Patients of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex Ile - Ife, Nigeria

Citation: Fadeiye EO, Adegbenro CA, Olumakaiye MF (2016) Assessment of Nutritional Knowledge of HIV Positive Adult Patients of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex Ile Ife, Nigeria. J Nutr Health Sci 3(1): 102. doi: 10.15744/2393-9060.3. 102 Volume 3 | Issue 1 Journal of Nutrition and Health Sciences