Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Intermittent Fasting (Ramadan Fasting) on Psoriatic Arthritis Disease Activity, Enthesitis, and Dactylitis: A Multicentre Study

Intermittent circadian fasting, namely Ramadan, is a common worldwide practice. Such fasting has a positive impact on psoriasis, but no data exist on its role in psoriatic arthritis (PsA)—a disease that is clearly linked to body mass index. We enrolled 37 patients (23 females and 14 males) with a mean age 43.32 ± 7.81 and they fasted for 17 h for one month in 2016. The baseline PsA characteristics were collected and 12 (32.4%) patients had peripheral arthritis, 13 (35.1%) had axial involvement, 24 (64.9%) had enthesitis, and 13 (35.1%) had dactylitis. Three patients (8.1%) were treated with methotrexate, 28 (75.7%) with TNF-α blockers, and 6 (16.2%) with IL-17 blockers. After a month of intermittent fasting, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels decreased from 14.08 ± 4.65 to 12.16 ± 4.46 (p < 0.0001), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) decreased from 2.83 ± 1.03 to 2.08 ± 0.67 (p = 0.0078), Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) decreased from 7.46 ± 2.43 to 5.86 ± 2.37 (p < 0.0001), and Disease Activity index for PSoriatic Arthritis (DAPSA) decreased from 28.11 ± 4.51 to 25.76 ± 4.48 (p < 0.0001). Similarly, enthesitis improved after fasting, with Leeds Enthesitis Index (LEI) decreasing from 2.25 ± 1.11 to 1.71 ± 0.86 (p < 0.0001) and dactylitis severity score (DSS) decreasing from 9.92 ± 2.93 to 8.54 ± 2.79 (p = 0.0001). Fasting was found to be a predictor of a decrease in PsA disease activity scores (DAPSA, BASDAI, LEI, DSS) even after adjustment for weight loss. IL-17 therapy was found to be an independent predictor of decreases in LEI after fasting. These preliminary data may support the use of chronomedicine in the context of rheumatic diseases, namely PsA. Further studies are needed to support our findings.
Effect of Peer Education on Knowledge of Human Papilloma Virus and Cervical Cancer among Female Adolescent Students in Benin City, Nigeria

Introduction: It is well documented that Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the cause of cervical cancer which is a major cause of morbidity and mortality especially in low- and middle-income countries. Vaccines against HPV are available. In developed countries where the vaccines have been deployed, lack of information among the target population (adolescents) is a major contributor to suboptimal uptake. In Nigeria, the vaccine is yet to be provided in the national programme on immunization, which is free, but it is available for a fee. In this study we determined the effect of peer education on the knowledge of female adolescents about HPV, cervical cancer, its treatment and prevention. Methods: This was an intervention study. The knowledge and awareness of female students of four secondary schools were assessed using a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire prior to the training of some of the students (peers). The trained students delivered messages on cervical cancer and HPV using fliers containing key information (peer training) to their school mates in formal delivery in a class setting. The knowledge and awareness of students, post-peer training, was then assessed. Results: There were 1337 students who responded to the baseline questionnaire while 1201 responded to the post-peer training questionnaire. Awareness of cervical cancer, knowledge of risk factors and cause of cervical cancer was low prior to the peer training. There was statistically significant improvement in awareness about cervical cancer and in the knowledge domains following peer training. Mean knowledge score prior to training was 12.94 ± 9.23 and this increased significantly to 53.74 ± 10.69 following peer training p < 0.0001. Conclusion: Peer training is effective in improving knowledge and awareness of secondary school students about HPV and cervical cancer.
Evolution of the gekkotan adhesive system: does digit anatomy point to one or more origins?

Recently-developed, molecularly-based phylogenies of geckos have provided the basis for reassessing the number of times adhesive toe-pads have arisen within the Gekkota. At present both a single origin and multiple origin hypotheses prevail, each of which has consequences that relate to explanations about digit form and evolutionary transitions underlying the enormous variation in adhesive toe pad structure among extant, limbed geckos (pygopods lack pertinent features). These competing hypotheses result from mapping the distribution of toe pads onto a phylogenetic framework employing the simple binary expedient of whether such toe pads are present or absent. It is evident, however, that adhesive toe pads are functional complexes that consist of a suite of integrated structural components that interact to bring about adhesive contact with the substratum and release from it. We evaluated the competing hypotheses about toe pad origins using 34 features associated with digit structure (drawn from the overall form of the digits; the presence and form of adhesive scansors; the proportions and structure of the phalanges; aspects of digital muscular and tendon morphology; presence and form of paraphalangeal elements; and the presence and form of substrate compliance-enhancing structures). We mapped these onto a well-supported phylogeny to reconstruct their evolution. Nineteen of these characters proved to be informative for all extant, limbed geckos, allowing us to assess which of them exhibit co-occurrence and/or clade-specificity. We found the absence of adhesive toe pads to be the ancestral state for the extant Gekkota as a whole, and our data to be consistent with independent origins of adhesive toe pads in the Diplodactylidae, Sphaerodactylidae, Phyllodactylidae and Gekkonidae, with a strong likelihood of multiple origins in the latter three families. These findings are consistent with recently-published evidence of the presence of adhesively-competent digits in geckos generally regarded as lacking toe pads. Based upon morphology we identify other taxa at various locations within the gekkotan tree that are promising candidates for the expression of the early phases of adhesively-assisted locomotion. Investigation of functionally transitional forms will be valuable for enhancing our understanding of what is necessary and sufficient for the transition to adhesively-assisted locomotion, and for those whose objectives are to develop simulacra of the gekkotan adhesive system for biotechnological applications.
Plasma cell differentiation during the germinal center reaction

Germinal centers (GCs) are formed in secondary lymphoid tissues upon immunization with T‐dependent antigens. In GCs, somatic hypermutation generates B cells with increased antibody affinity and these high‐affinity B cells preferentially differentiate into plasma cells, which home to bone marrow and confer long‐lived humoral immunity. Recent studies have shed new light on the cellular and molecular basis for initiating the transition from a GC B cell to a plasma cell. Here, we review recent progress in our understanding of how plasma cell generation during the GC reaction is regulated for inducing effective long‐term protective immunity and for preventing harmful autoimmunity.
Protein Interaction with Charged Macromolecules: From Model Polymers to Unfolded Proteins and Post-Translational Modifications

Interaction of proteins with charged macromolecules is involved in many processes in cells. Firstly, there are many naturally occurred charged polymers such as DNA and RNA, polyphosphates, sulfated glycosaminoglycans, etc., as well as pronouncedly charged proteins such as histones or actin. Electrostatic interactions are also important for “generic” proteins, which are not generally considered as polyanions or polycations. Finally, protein behavior can be altered due to post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, sulfation, and glycation, which change a local charge of the protein region. Herein we review molecular modeling for the investigation of such interactions, from model polyanions and polycations to unfolded proteins. We will show that electrostatic interactions are ubiquitous, and molecular dynamics simulations provide an outstanding opportunity to look inside binding and reveal the contribution of electrostatic interactions. Since a molecular dynamics simulation is only a model, we will comprehensively consider its relationship with the experimental data.
Antithrombotic treatment in patients with atrial fibrillation and acute coronary syndromes: results of the European Heart Rhythm Association survey.

The management of an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in a patient with existing atrial fibrillation (AF) often presents a management dilemma both in the acute phase and post-ACS, since the majority of AF patients will already be receiving oral anticoagulation (OAC) for stroke prevention and will require further antithrombotic treatment to reduce the risk of in-stent thrombosis or recurrent cardiac events. Current practice recommendations are based largely on consensus option as there is limited evidence from randomized controlled trials. Prior to the launch of the new European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) consensus document, a survey was undertaken to examine current clinical management of these patients across centres in Europe. Forty-seven centres submitted valid responses, with the majority (70.2%) being university hospitals. This EHRA survey demonstrated overall the management of ACS in AF patients is consistent with the available guidance. Most centres would use triple therapy for a short duration (4 weeks) and predominantly utilize a strategy of OAC (vitamin K antagonist, VKA or non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant, NOAC) plus aspirin and clopidogrel, followed by dual therapy [(N)OAC plus clopidogrel] until 12 months post-percutaneous coronary intervention, followed by (N)OAC monotherapy indefinitely. Where NOAC was used in combination with antiplatelet(s), the lower dose of the respective NOAC was preferred, in accordance with current recommendations.
Expression of new genes in vertebrate tooth development and p63 signaling

p63 is an evolutionarily ancient transcription factor essential to vertebrate tooth development. Our recent gene expression screen comparing wild‐type and “toothless” p63−/− mouse embryos implicated in tooth development several new genes that we hypothesized act downstream of p63 in dental epithelium, where p63 is also expressed.
Does divergent selection predict the evolution of mate preference and reproductive isolation in the tropical butterfly genus Melinaea (Nymphalidae: Ithomiini)?

Many studies have shown that speciation can be facilitated when a trait under divergent selection also causes assortative mating. In Müllerian mimetic butterflies, a change in wing colour pattern can cause reproductive isolation. However, colour pattern divergence does not always lead to reproductive isolation. Understanding how divergent selection affects speciation requires identifying the mechanisms that promote mate preference and/or choosiness. This study addresses whether shifts in wing colour pattern drives mate preference and reproductive isolation in the tropical butterfly genus Melinaea (Nymphalidae: Ithomiini), and focuses on five taxa that form a speciation continuum, from subspecies to fully recognized species. Using genetic markers, wing colour pattern quantification, male pheromone characterization and behavioural assays of mating preference, we characterize the extent of genetic and phenotypic differentiation between taxa and compare it to the level of reproductive isolation. We show strong premating isolation between the closely related species M. satevis and M. marsaeus, in addition to genetic and phenotypic (colour pattern and pheromones) differentiation. By contrast, M. menophilus and M. marsaeus consist of pairs of subspecies that differ for colour pattern but that cannot be differentiated genetically. Pheromonal differentiation of subspecies was significant only for M. marsaeus, although most individuals were indistinguishable. Melinaea menophilus and M. marsaeus also differ in the strength of assortative mating, suggesting that mate preference has evolved only in M. marsaeus, consistent with selection against maladaptive offspring, as subspecific 'hybrids' of M. marsaeus have intermediate, non-mimetic colour patterns, unlike those of M. menophilus which display either parental phenotypes. We conclude that a shift in colour pattern per se is not sufficient for reproductive isolation, but rather, the evolution of assortative mating may be caused by selection against maladaptive intermediate phenotypes. This study suggests that mate preference and assortative mating evolve when adaptive, and that even in the early stages of divergence, reproductive isolation can be nearly complete due to mating preferences.
Social network analysis of obsidian artefacts and Māori interaction in northern Aotearoa New Zealand

Over the span of some 700 years the colonizing populations of Aotearoa New Zealand grew, with subsequent changes in levels of interaction and social affiliation. Historical accounts document that Māori society transformed from relatively autonomous village-based groups into larger territorial lineages, which later formed even larger geo-political tribal associations. These shifts have not been well-documented in the archaeological record, but social network analysis (SNA) of pXRF sourced obsidian recovered from 15 archaeological sites documents variable levels of similarity and affiliation. Three site communities and two source communities are defined based on the differential proportions of obsidian from 13 distinct sources. Distance and travel time between archaeological sites and obsidian sources were not the defining factors for obsidian source selection and community membership, rather social considerations are implicated. Some archaeological sites incorporated material from far off sources, and in some instances geographically close sites contained material from different sources and were assigned to different communities. The analytical site communities constitute relational identifications that partially correspond to categorical identities of current Māori iwi (tribal) territories and boundaries. Based on very limited temporal information, these site communities are thought to have coalesced sometime after AD 1500. By incorporating previously published and unpublished data, the SNA of obsidian artefacts defined robust network communities that reflect differential levels of Māori interaction and affiliation.
Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease and Cancer Mortality by Achieving Healthy Dietary Goals for the Swedish Population: A Macro-Simulation Modelling Study

The objective is to estimate the number of deaths attributable to cardiovascular diseases and diet-related cancers that could be prevented or delayed in Sweden if adults adhere to the official dietary recommendations. We used an age-group and sex-specific epidemiological macro-simulation model to estimate preventable deaths due to the discrepancies between actual intake and recommended intake of changes in food components. Data included in the model are a baseline scenario (actual dietary intake), a counterfactual scenario (recommended intake) and age- and sex-specific mortality for cardiovascular and diet-related cancer diseases together compared with the total population risk of a specific year. Monte Carlo analyses with 5000 iterations was performed to produce the 95% uncertainty intervals (UI). The model predicts that 6405 (95% UI: 5086–7086) deaths could be prevented or delayed if the Swedish population could adhere to official dietary recommendations in a year. More deaths would be saved for men than women. The recommendations for fruits and vegetables could have saved 47% of the deaths, followed by fiber intake (32%). For men, fruits and vegetables could have saved more compared to other dietary components, while for women dietary fiber was the prominent factor. Public health policies should consider ensuring healthy eating practices for the Swedish population.
Apply of WhatsApp: A quick, simple, smarty and cost competent method of communication in neurosurgery

Abstract Objective: Neurosurgeons habitually have to hinge on judgments of subordinate staffs to build an assessment on patients whom they cannot be present at immediately. WhatsApp is a no charge to use application for image transfer on Internet. We evaluated the use of WhatsApp in neurosurgical milieu, to show it is economical, quick, available, reliable and practicable. Materials and methods: We coordinate a prospective observational study from December 2014 to June 2015. Residents were skilled to take sharp pictures and upload them immediately using WhatsApp on Internet. Primary conclusion was difference between opinion of residents and consultants on WhatsApp images and time delay in decision-making. Conflict was evaluated significant if it changed management decision. Results: In the study period, 1356 (mean age: 35.53 years, 71.28% males) patients were included in study those admitted in after hospital hours. Internet packs of smart phone available in market in very economical cost. Judgment could be made on images received on WhatsApp at an average of 4.06 min. There was Conflict in 7.22% cases between residents’ reports and images on WhatsApp. All Radiological imaging modalities, were associated with statistically Insignificant difference (P >0.05). Conclusion: This study suggests that apply of WhatsApp in neurosurgery can be a simple quick reliable and almost free mode of communicating images enabling a quick decision. Though this cost-effective method should be used with concern particularly with Radiological imaging modalities, which require dispensation and appraisal on console.
A health education intervention to improve oral health among institutionalised elderly people : a randomised controlled trial

This cluster-randomised controlled trial evaluated an oral health care education programme (OHEP) for carers of nursing-home clients. Outcome measures were carers' knowledge and attitude scores (assessed by questionnaire) and clients' oral health status (clinically assessed). Data were collected at baseline, and at one-month and six-months after OHEP. The sample, comprising 412 clients and 295 carers in 22 homes, showed acceptable baseline comparability. Clients' baseline oral health was poor. After OHEP, several intervention group oral health scores improved significantly. Reductions in intervention group denture plaque scores (0-4 scale) exceeded those of the control group by 1.14 (95%CI 1.28 to 1.01) at one month and by 1.46 (95%CI 1.64 to 1.29) at six months. Denture-induced stomatitis prevalence reduced over 6 months by 20.3% in the intervention group compared to 4% in the control. For dental plaque (0-3 scale), group differences in favour of the intervention group were 0.42 (95%CI 0.58 to 0.25) at one month and 0.34 (95%CI 0.53 to 0.15) at six months. For gingivitis (0-2 scale), differences were 0.17 (95%CI 0.32 to 0.02) at one month and 0.28 (95%CI 0.42 to 0.15) at six months. These key differences remained significant after adjustment for clustering effects. Differences for measures unlikely to change without professional dental treatment (calculus, root caries, tooth mobility) were not significant. Carers' knowledge scores increased in both groups. The intervention group improved more than the control, differences being statistically significant at both response times (p=0.003, p=0.001 respectively). Attitude scores increased in the intervention group, but fell in the control. Differences were statistically significant at both response times (p=0.003, p<0.001). Participants rated the OHEP positively. Although final levels of residents' oral health were still short of ideal, this study clearly shows that an OHEP can improve carers' knowledge, attitudes and oral health care performance for elderly, functionally dependent clients.
Increasing Deaths Due to Malignancy in HIV＋ Patients is Associated with Integrase Inhibitor Therapy

Despite reductions in AIDS-related deaths, registries show HIV＋ patients are still dying at a younger age than HIV-peers. Although overall mortality has declined in this population, a growing percent of deaths are due to malignancy. Since the data demonstrating the growing percentage of deaths due to malignancy in the HIV＋ population is derived from registries, the study explores whether the subset dying from malignancy has particular characteristics that can be seen in a well-characterized cohort. In the well-characterized HIV＋ cohort, the percentage of deaths due to cancer was seen to increase over four years （2010-2013） from 21% to 24% to 38% to 40%. The mean CD4-count of those who died from malignancy was 252＋/-42 and 333＋/-36 in patients with death from other causes. The viral load was not suppressed in 26% of patients dying from malignancy. Of patients on integrase inhibitor therapy, 48% of deaths were due to malignancy while in patients not on this therapy, 10% of deaths were due to malignancy （relative risk = 4.8）. In HIV＋ patients, a low CD4-count, failure to achieve viral suppression, and use of integrase inhibitors were associated with malignancy as the cause of death. The association of a specific therapy, integrase inhibition, with malignancy is seen in the study.
Explorations fonctionnelles respiratoires chez l'enfant asthmatique Réalisation, interprétation et indications

L’exploration fonctionnelle respiratoire contribue au diagnostic et au suivi therapeutique de l’enfant asthmatique. Les methodes utilisables dependent de l’âge et de la cooperation de l’enfant. Les EFR peuvent etre realisees en routine chez l’enfant des l’âge de trois ans. Chez le nourrisson, elles restent reservees a des laboratoires specialises. A partir de 6-7 ans, les mesures obtenues chez l’adulte sont le plus souvent transposables chez l’enfant. L’interpretation des resultats sous-entend la realisation de normes chez des enfants sains. La mesure des volumes pulmonaires permet d’evaluer une eventuelle distension. Plusieurs techniques permettent de mesurer une obstruction bronchique. La realisation d’une courbe debit-volume facilement obtenue chez l’enfant de plus de sept ans peut etre aidee par des logiciels incitatifs chez le jeune enfant. La mesure des resistances qu’elles soient par oscillations forcees, interruption de debit ou plethysmographiques demande moins de cooperation et est plus facile chez les enfants d’âge prescolaire. La mesure de l’hyperreactivite bronchique est egalement possible. Les dernieres recommandations internationales precisent l’interet du double controle clinique et fonctionnel respiratoire.
What is that spot in the liver

Poster: "ECR 2013 / C-0400 / What is that spot in the liver? " by: "R. N. Lucas, J. M. G. Lourenco, L. Vieira, Â. Marques, Z. Seabra, J. A. Sousa Pereira; Lisbon/PT"
Articular-Cartilage Lesions of the Knee and Osteoarthritis in Athletes: An Overview

In 1743, William Hunter, English surgeon and anatomist, stated, “From Hippocrates to the present age, it is universally allowed that ulcerated cartilage is a troublesome thing and once destroyed, it is not repaired. ”1,p6 Two hundred sixty years later, his statement still holds true. Articular cartilage does not repair itself to its original form once injured. Although there are many techniques to repair articular lesions, a method to completely restore damaged cartilage remains elusive. Athletes are especially susceptible to cartilage lesions. These injuries cause pain, swelling, mechanical symptoms, and functional disability and can lead to osteoarthritis. An important area of musculoskeletal research is in the treatment of these injuries and prevention of osteoarthritis.