Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
HIV-1 Vpr Induces Widespread Transcriptomic Changes in CD4+ T Cells Early Postinfection

HIV-1, while now treatable, remains an important human pathogen causing significant morbidity and mortality globally. The virus predominantly infects CD4+ T cells and, if not treated with medication, ultimately causes their depletion, resulting in AIDS and death. ABSTRACT The interactions between a virus and its host are complex but can be broadly categorized as either viral manipulation of cellular functions or cellular responses to infection. These processes begin at the earliest point of contact between virus and cell and frequently result in changes to cellular gene expression, making genome-wide transcriptomics a useful tool to study them. Several previous studies have used transcriptomics to evaluate the cellular responses to human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection; however, none have examined events in primary CD4+ T cells during the first 24 h of infection. Here, we analyzed CD4+ T cells at 4.5, 8, 12, 24, and 48 h following infection. We describe global changes to host gene expression commencing at 4.5 h postinfection and evolving over the ensuing time points. We identify upregulation of genes related to innate immunity, cytokine production, and apoptosis and downregulation of those involved in transcription and translation. We further demonstrate that the viral accessory protein Vpr is necessary for almost all gene expression changes seen at 12 h postinfection and the majority of those seen at 48 h. Identifying this new role for Vpr not only provides fresh perspective on its possible function but also adds further insight into the interplay between HIV-1 and its host at the cellular level. IMPORTANCE HIV-1, while now treatable, remains an important human pathogen causing significant morbidity and mortality globally. The virus predominantly infects CD4+ T cells and, if not treated with medication, ultimately causes their depletion, resulting in AIDS and death. Further refining our understanding of the interaction between HIV-1 and these cells has the potential to inform further therapeutic development. Previous studies have used transcriptomics to assess gene expression changes in CD4+ T cells following HIV-1 infection; here, we provide a detailed examination of changes occurring in the first 24 h of infection. Importantly, we define the viral protein Vpr as essential for the changes observed at this early stage. This finding has significance for understanding the role of Vpr in infection and pathogenesis and also for interpreting previous transcriptomic analyses of HIV-1 infection.
Discordance Between Subjective and Objective Measures of Smell and Taste in US Adults

Objective Examine the rates and factors associated with under- and overreporting of subjective changes in smell or taste as compared with objective measures. Study Design Cross-sectional analysis. Setting National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2013-2014). Methods We examined participants ≥40 years old who completed subjective questionnaires (smell, n = 3510; taste, n = 3089), validated objective 8-odor pocket smell tests, and NaCl/quinine taste tests. Over- and underreporting was determined by the difference in subjective and objective results. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses incorporated sampling weights. Results A majority of participants correctly classified impairment: smell (73.7%; 95% CI, 71.2%-76.1%) and taste (78.3%; 95% CI, 75.6%-80.7%). Age ≥65 years (odds ratio, 2.23; P = .001) was associated with underreporting impairment, and persistent cold symptoms (odds ratio, 2.15; P = .001) were associated with overreporting smell impairment. Smoke, onion, and natural gas scents were incorrectly identified more frequently by individuals aged ≥65 years after Bonferroni correction. No factors were associated with under- and overreporting taste impairment. Conclusion Although the concordance rate between subjective and objective assessment of smell and taste impairment remains high, we found that older age was associated with incorrect report of impairment. This suggests that the subjective perception of smell varies across demographical and clinical factors, and it is important to not overlook such factors in clinical practice. Potentially using a simplified odor assessment regularly in the clinical setting may aid in early detection and intervention.
Self-Assembly of Linear Polymers into Phosphorescent Nanoparticles: Optimization toward Non-Cytotoxic Bioimaging and Photonic Devices

Development of light-emitting polymers is usually hampered by inherent drawbacks such as photobleaching, stability, and functionalization issues. Formation of biocompatible, luminescent polymer particles often entails hazardous chemical cross-linking processes and/or doping with fluorophores susceptible to leaching and photobleaching. Here we describe the formation of size-tunable phosphorescent particles via self-assembly of chitosan and other linear polymers that bear positive surface charges upon polyelectrolytic complexation to a polyanionic gold(I) phosphor (AuP). The in situ self-assembly of phosphorescent chitosan nanoparticles is enabled by AuP that performs a quadruple role: a physical cross-linker, light emitter, sensor of polysaccharide rings with structures akin to those of some cancer markers, and contrast agent for electron microscopy. Size tunability in phosphorescent chitosan particles was achieved by systematic variations in pH or reactant concentrations. AuP exhibits “on–off” photolumine.
Use of DPB1 T‐cell epitope algorithm among italian transplant centers: A survey on behalf of Associazione Italiana di Immunogenetica e Biologia dei Trapianti

The HLA‐DPB1 locus has been demonstrated to have a significant role on patients' outcome after allogeneic HSCT, and the so‐called T‐cell epitope (TCE) algorithm has been incorporated in international guidelines for the selection of unrelated donors. The purpose of the present study is to measure, through a national survey conducted on behalf of the Associazione Italiana di Immunogenetica e Biologia dei Trapianti (AIBT), the extent of awareness and use of HLA‐DPB1 TCE‐based algorithms during the donor search. 89% of the HLA laboratories answered to a short questionnaire and the results showed a progressive increase of the laboratories typing DPB1 in patients and their potential donors during the search (from 44% to 79% during the 2010–2019 period) as well as the application of a TCE‐based algorithm for the donor choice whenever possible (from 24% to 65% during the same period). The DP‐permissiveness status is detailed in the official HLA typing report by 12%, 32% and 50% of laboratories in 2010, 2015 and 2019, respectively. The present data indicate an encouraging raise in the awareness of the HLA‐DPB1 role in unrelated donor selection; noteworthy, mentioning the TCE‐based permissiveness status in the HLA typing report of each potential unrelated donor represents a notable mean to raise awareness among transplant physicians and to support them in their task of choosing the best donor. Nonetheless, despite the compelling evidence of the predictive ability of TCE‐based algorithms, further efforts are still needed to extend its application to all transplant centers in Italy.
Symmetric 10 Gbit/s 40-km reach DSP-based TDM-PON with a power budget over 50 dB.

This paper introduces the concept of a symmetric 10 Gbit/s high power-budget TDM-PON based on digital coherent technology and confirms its feasibility through a bidirectional transmission experiment with a transmission distance of 40 km and power budget of more than 50 dB. Burst-mode upstream 10 Gbit/s binary-phase-shift-keying (BPSK) signals synchronized by the clock recovered from downstream 10 Gbit/s NRZ signals are detected by using an optical pre-amplifier and coherent detection based on real-time burst-mode digital signal processing (DSP) in the optical line terminal (OLT). The real-time DSP implements coefficient handover in the adaptive equalizer to allow the reception of burst-mode upstream BPSK signals with short preamble length. An experimental bit error performance evaluation of the real-time burst-mode DSP yields the receiver sensitivity of -45.1 dBm for upstream burst-mode BPSK with a preamble length of 1.3 μs. For downstream signals, the receiver sensitivity of -38.9 dBm is achieved by using a chirp-controlled transmitter with optical post-amplifier so as to avoid the signal distortion created by the chromatic dispersion of single mode fiber (SMF) when the launched power is increased.
Inter-rater reliability among psychiatrists when assessing depression according to the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale

Abstract Introduction Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) is a validated tool for rating the depth of depression. The structured interview guide for the MADRS (SIGMA) is an interview guide that has been developed in order to increase the inter-rater reliability. Patients often meet more than one psychiatrists during their hospitalization for depression. A divergent rating of depression between psychiatrists could affect both the treatment and the outcome. This makes knowledge of the inter-rater reliability among psychiatrists important. Aim The primary aim of this study was to measure the inter-rater reliability between psychiatrists when rating depression using the MADRS. Methods Ten in-patients, who were diagnosed with depression, were filmed while being interviewed using the SIGMA. The patients were after that instructed to rate themselves using the self-rating version of the MADRS. Ten psychiatrists rated the pre-recorded interviews according to the MADRS. The inter-rater reliability was measured using intra-class correlation (ICC). Results The mean ICC for the total MADRS score was 0.952 (95% CI 0.891–0.986; p<.001) and Cronbach’s alpha 0.961. ICC values for each item ranged between 0.866 and 0.978 (p<.001). Cronbach’s alpha ranged between 0.905 and 0.984. The ICC values, when comparing the psychiatrists rating to the patients rating, ranged between 0.307 and 0.809 (p<.001). Conclusion All of the ICC values in the study, except when comparing the psychiatrists rating to the patients self-rating, were considered to be excellent. This study confirms the findings of reliability found in similar studies which involved fewer raters and not exclusively psychiatrists.
Cyber-dating abuse in young adult couples: Relations with sexist attitudes and violence justification, smartphone usage and impulsivity

Technologies have become important for interaction in couples. However, in some cases, controlling and aggressive behaviors can occur in the context of virtual interactions in couples; this is known as cyber-dating abuse (CDA). Identifying factors linked to CDA, as perpetrator and victim, are relevant for its prevention; therefore, more research is needed in this novel field of study. To contribute to the literature, our first goal was to analyze the associations among certain risk factors for CDA perpetration and victimization of, i.e., sexist attitudes and violence justification, problematic smartphone usage and impulsivity; sex and age were also considered. The second goal was to study whether there were differences in direct aggression and control, from the perpetrator and victim perspectives, with consideration of the above-mentioned risk factors. Third, differences in the diverse range of control behaviors and direct aggression between women and men were explored. To this end, 697 young adults (aged between 18 and 35 years; 548 women) completed self-report questionnaires that allowed assessment of the above-mentioned variables. The results showed that, among the wide range of CDA behaviors, indirect ones such as control behaviors were the most common. The highest level of control was strongly associated with the inability to manage behaviors under certain emotional states, especially negative ones, along with problematic smartphone usage. Sex differences were also observed: men displayed more sexist attitudes and violence justification, and perceived that they were more controlled by their partners. Regarding CDA behaviors, men and women showed differences in control (e.g. men considered themselves to be more controlled in terms of location and status updates), and direct aggression (e.g. men used more insults and humiliations than women). The results were discussed in terms of the importance of better understanding these risk factors to attenuate the increasing prevalence of CDA in relationships.
Neurocognitive Impairment after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant for Hematologic Malignancies: Phenotype and Mechanisms.

Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) plays a central role in the treatment of hematologic cancers. With the increasing survival of patients after HSCT, survivorship issues experienced by this population have become an important outcome. Cognitive impairment is an established sequela of HSCT, with studies to date establishing its presence, associated risk factors, and clinical phenotype. There are multiple potential contributors to cognitive impairment post-HSCT. Efforts are ongoing to further characterize its clinical phenotype, associated biomarkers, and biologic underpinnings. A fundamental knowledge of post-HSCT cognitive impairment is of value for all clinicians that interface with this population, and further academic efforts are needed to more fully understand the impact of this cancer treatment on brain health. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: As survival outcomes after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) improve, an awareness of the post-treatment challenges faced by this population has become central to their care. HSCT can have a sustained and broad impact on brain health, causing cognitive dysfunction, fatigue, disturbed mood, and sleep. In affected patients, autonomy, return to work, relationships, and quality of life may all be affected. A fundamental fluency in this area is important for clinicians interfacing with HSCT survivors, facilitating the identification and management cognitive dysfunction and concurrent symptom clusters, and stimulating interest in these sequelae as areas for future clinical research.
Effectiveness of a web-based SUpport PRogramme (SUPR) for communication partners of persons with hearing loss: results of a two-arm, cluster randomised controlled trial and process evaluation

Abstract Objectives To examine the effects of web-based SUpport PRogram (SUPR) for communication partners (CPs) of persons with hearing loss (PHLs) in a HA dispensing setting. Design Cluster randomised controlled trial (cRCT) with two arms (SUPR: Booklet, online videos; care as usual: no support) plus process evaluation. Measurements: baseline, and immediately-, six, and 12 months post-intervention. Outcomes: Significant Other Scale for Hearing Disability (SOS-HEAR), International Outcome Inventory for HAs/Alternative Interventions for Significant Others (IOI-HA/AI-SO). Process evaluation: dose-received, satisfaction, and benefit. Study sample The cRCT included 73 (SUPR) and 57 (care as usual) CPs. In the process evaluation study, 41 CPs (SUPR) participated. Results There were no significant effects of SUPR for third-party disability (SOS-HEAR), the proxy report (IOI-HA-SO item “use”), and third-party disability (IOI-HA-SO items “satisfaction”, and “quality of life”). SUPR-videos were watched by 15-22% of the CPs. SUPR materials were rated as moderately beneficial and useful. Conclusions Low baseline disability (floor effect) and low intervention dose-received may explain the findings. Directly targeting CPs rather than via their PHLs and providing intervention materials specifically for CPs may improve their engagement and contribute to SUPR’s value supplementary to standard HA care.
Operative variations in temporal lobe epilepsy surgery and seizure and memory outcome in 226 patients suffering from hippocampal sclerosis

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to assess seizure and memory outcomes following temporal lobe surgery in patients suffering from medically refractory temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and hippocampal sclerosis (HS). Methods: A retrospective monocentric data analysis was performed in consecutive patients who were operated on during 2002–2018. In the first decennium, standard temporal lobe resections (TLR) were predominately performed, and later, antero-temporal lobe resections (ATLR) were mainly performed. Seizure and memory outcomes over time were assessed according to ILAE/Engel classification and the Berlin Amnesia Test (BTA), respectively. Results: Altogether, 231 surgeries were performed on 226 patients (mean age, 40 years [range, 10–68 years]; male: female, 1:1.4; mean seizure duration, 25 years; and mean follow-up duration, 4.75 years [range, 1–16]). Recently, outcomes of 78.3% of the patients in the total cohort were classified as Engel class I, with 54.9% of patients being completely seizure free. The recent cohort of ATLR since 2012 showed significant more completely seizure-free patients than before 2012 (Engel IA 46.6% versus 67.7%, p < 0.0025, χ 2), although the Kaplan Meier analysis of all patients favors TLR for better seizure outcome (61% ATLR vs 73% TLR seizure free after 5 yrs, log rank p < 0.001). Verbal memory improved significantly in non-dominant patients. Minor neurological complications were noted (permanent severe complications, 0.4%; temporary severe complications, 4.8%). Conclusion: Significant improvements in seizure and memory outcomes were observed over time, with surgical technique and seizure duration as important prognostic factors. Early admittance for surgery may favor an excellent seizure outcome in patients undergoing temporal lobe resection for HS.
Stakeholders' perspectives and requirements on pain self-management for adolescents living with HIV/AIDS in Malawi: a cross-sectional qualitative study

ABSTRACT Malawi has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates (8.9%), and data suggest 27% pain prevalence among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in Malawi. Pain among ALHIV is often under-reported and pain management is suboptimal. We aimed to explore stakeholders’ perspectives and experiences on pain self-management for ALHIV and chronic pain in Malawi. We conducted cross-sectional in-depth qualitative interviews with adolescents/caregiver dyads and healthcare professionals working in HIV clinics. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and translated (where applicable) then imported into NVivo version 12 software for framework analysis. We identified three main themes: (1) Experiencing “total pain”: adolescents experienced physical, psychosocial, and spiritual pain which impacted their daily life activities. (2) Current self-management approaches: participants prefer group-based self-management approaches facilitated by healthcare professionals or peers at the clinic focussing on self-management of physical, psychosocial, and spiritual pain. (3) Current pain strategies: participants used prescribed drugs, traditional medicine, and non-pharmacological interventions, such as exercises to manage pain. A person-centred care approach to self-management of chronic pain among ALHIV is needed to mitigate the impact of pain on their daily activities. There is a need to integrate self-management approaches within the existing structures such as teen clubs in primary care.
Disrupted dorsal mid-insula activation during interoception across psychiatric disorders

Objective Maintenance of bodily homeostasis relies on interoceptive mechanisms in the brain to predict and regulate bodily state. While many experiments report altered neural activation during interoception in specific psychiatric disorders, it is unclear whether a common neural locus underpins transdiagnostic interoceptive differences. Methods We conducted a meta-analysis of neuroimaging studies comparing psychiatric groups against healthy controls to identify brain regions exhibiting convergent ‘disrupted activation’ during interoception. We searched bibliographic, neuroimaging, and preprint databases through to May 2020. We extracted 306 foci from 33 studies, including 610 controls and 626 patients with schizophrenia, bipolar or unipolar depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, eating disorders, and substance use disorders. Data were pooled using a random-effects model implemented by the activation likelihood estimation algorithm. Our pre-registered primary outcome was the neuroanatomical location of the convergence of peak voxel coordinates. Results We found convergent ‘disrupted activation’ specific to the left dorsal mid-insula (Z=4.47, p=0.0000038; peak: -36, -2, 14; volume: 928mm3). Studies directly contributing to the cluster included patients with bipolar, anxiety, major depression, anorexia, and schizophrenia, and task probes assessing pain, hunger, and interoceptive attention. A series of conjunction analyses against extant meta-analytic datasets revealed that this mid-insula cluster was anatomically distinct from brain regions involved in affective processing and from regions altered by psychological or pharmacological interventions for affective disorders. Conclusions We report a transdiagnostic, domain-general difference in interoceptive processing in the left dorsal mid-insula. Disrupted mid-insular activation may represent a neural marker of psychopathology and a putative target for novel interventions.
The examination of biophysical parameters of the skin in Polish Konik horses

This study aimed to assess the biophysical parameters of the skin in Polish Konik horses (Polish primitive horses). According to the authors, this is the first assessment performed on such a wide scale in this group of animals. The evaluation carried out is innovative both with regards to the breed of the animals and the wide scope of the physicochemical skin assessment. The study group comprised mares, stallions and geldings, and the evaluations concerned transepidermal water loss, corneometry, pH, skin temperature assessment and mexametry. These parameters were assessed in five skin regions: the lips, the right ear, the prosternum, the right side of the neck and the chest. The measurements were taken after spreading the hair apart, with the use of a Multiprobe Adapter System (MPA®) and dedicated probes (Courage + Khazaka electronic GmbH, Cologne, Germany). The measurements revealed statistically significant differences in the values of transepidermal water loss in the lips in mares compared with stallions (P = 0.023) and also in stallions compared with geldings (P = 0.009). Corneometry showed significantly higher results in the neck region in mares compared with stallions (P = 0.037) and the prosternum areas in mares and geldings compared with stallions (P = 0.037 and P = 0.018). Skin pH measurement on the right side of the neck rendered significantly higher values in stallions than in mares (P = 0.037). In geldings, the skin temperature was significantly higher than in stallions (P = 0.049). Once the appropriate physicochemical values for specific animal species and breeds are determined, non-invasive methods of skin examination in many diseases and also methods of evaluation of the efficacy and/or adverse effects of applied medications can be established.