Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Typing Power of Six Isoenzymatic Systems for Differentiation of Clinical and Standard Isolates of Candida Species

Background: Due to the increasing prevalence of candidiasis, early detection of the causative agents may pave the way for the management of this infection. The present study aimed to assess the discriminative power of the six isoenzymatic systems for differentiating the Candida species. Materials and Methods: Sixteen standard Candida albicans and Candida dubliniensis strains and 30 fluconazole-sensitive and fluconazole-resistant clinical strains of Candida albicans were analyzed using a Multilocus Enzyme Electrophoresis (MLEE) method, including six enzymatic systems consisting of malate dehydrogenase (MDH), phosphoglucomutase (PGM), glucose-phosphate isomerase (GPI), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD), and malic enzyme (ME). Results: Among the six enzymatic systems, ME showed no diagnostic activity, whereas MDH provided the best species-specific pattern for species discrimination. In addition, the MDH and G6PD systems provided a discriminatory pattern for differentiating C. dubliniensis from C. albicans isolates. The same isoenzymatic activity was detected in all 36 standard and clinical isolates. Moreover, the results showed no correlation between the isoenzymatic profiles and drug resistance. Conclusion: Among the investigated MLEE systems, MDH was able to differentiate between Candida albicans and Candida dubliniensis. Although no association was detected between isoenzyme patterns and fluconazole resistance in this investigation, isoenzyme patterns are likely correlated with virulence factors between species and even within species. To answer these questions, additional studies should be done on more strains.
Pulsed antennas

The problem of pulsed antennas has two complementary parts: i) analysis of the radiation field when the driving voltage is given and ii) synthesis of the driven voltage when the radiation field is given. In this paper a number of heuristic procedures are presented, relating to the computation of transient radiation from elementary sources, coaxial apertures, infinitely long cylindrical antennas, finite cylindrical antennas, and loop antennas. Comparison with available rigorous solutions and experiments is also provided.
Luteolin and Vernodalol as Bioactive Compounds of Leaf and Root Vernonia amygdalina Extracts: Effects on α-Glucosidase, Glycation, ROS, Cell Viability, and In Silico ADMET Parameters

The aqueous decoctions of Vernonia amygdalina (VA) leaves and roots are widely used in traditional African medicine as an antidiabetic remedy. The amount of luteolin and vernodalol in leaf and root extracts was detected, and their role was studied regarding α-glucosidase activity, bovine serum albumin glycation (BSA), reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, and cell viability, together with in silico absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties. Vernodalol did not affect α-glucosidase activity, whereas luteolin did. Furthermore, luteolin inhibited the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas vernodalol did not reduce it. Additionally, luteolin exhibited high antiradical activity, while vernodalol demonstrated a lower scavenger effect, although similar to that of ascorbic acid. Both luteolin and vernodalol inhibited HT-29 cell viability, showing a half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 22.2 µM (−Log IC50 = 4.65 ± 0.05) and 5.7 µM (−Log IC50 = 5.24 ± 0.16), respectively. Finally, an in silico ADMET study showed that both compounds are suitable candidates as drugs, with appropriate pharmacokinetics. This research underlines for the first time the greater presence of vernodalol in VA roots compared to leaves, while luteolin is prevalent in the latter, suggesting that the former could be used as a natural source of vernodalol. Consequently, root extracts could be proposed for vernodalol-dependent antiproliferative activity, while leaf extracts could be suggested for luteolin-dependent effects, such as antioxidant and antidiabetic effects.
Immunohistochemical and Molecular Genetic Analysis of Canine Digital Mast Cell Tumours

Simple Summary In veterinary medicine, methods such as histological grading, immunohistochemistry and mutation analysis of the c-kit gene are tools to assess the prognosis and treatment of canine cutaneous mast cell tumours. These methods have not yet been applied and evaluated on a large scale for mast cell tumours of the dog’s toe, as these digital mast cell tumours are considered a subset of the cutaneous forms. Mast cell tumours can be more aggressive at certain sites. Therefore, the aim of this study was to apply these methods to 68 dogs with digital mast cell tumours. Even though only a few digital mast cell tumours were histologically poorly differentiated, more than half had immunohistochemical findings that could indicate an unfavourable prognosis. Mutations in the c-kit gene were found as well. Moreover, French Bulldogs—a breed that tends to develop benign variants at other sites on the skin—were more likely to have poorly differentiated tumours. Although outcome data were not available, the results of this study may contribute to a better understanding of canine mast cell tumours of the toe. Abstract Grading, immunohistochemistry and c-kit mutation status are criteria for assessing the prognosis and therapeutic options of canine cutaneous mast cell tumours (MCTs). As a subset, canine digital MCTs have rarely been explored in this context. Therefore, in this retrospective study, 68 paraffin-embedded canine digital MCTs were analysed, and histological grading was assessed according to Patnaik and Kiupel. The immunohistochemical markers KIT and Ki67 were used, as well as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for mutational screening in c-kit exons 8, 9, 11 and 14. Patnaik grading resulted in 22.1% grade I, 67.6% grade II and 10.3% grade III tumours. Some 86.8% of the digital MCTs were Kiupel low-grade. Aberrant KIT staining patterns II and III were found in 58.8%, and a count of more than 23 Ki67-positive cells in 52.3% of the cases. Both parameters were significantly associated with an internal tandem duplication (ITD) in c-kit exon 11 (12.7%). French Bulldogs, which tend to form well-differentiated cutaneous MCTs, had a higher proportion of digital high-grade MCTs and ITD in c-kit exon 11 compared with mongrels. Due to its retrospective nature, this study did not allow for an analysis of survival data. Nevertheless, it may contribute to the targeted characterisation of digital MCTs.
Derivation and Validation of a Prognostic Model for Acute Decompensated Cirrhosis Patients

Background Acute decompensated cirrhosis (AD) is related to high medical costs and high mortality. We recently proposed a new score model to predict the outcome of AD patients and compared it with the common score model (CTP, MELD and CLIF-C AD score) in the training and validation sets. Materials and Methods A total of 703 patients with AD were enrolled from The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University between December 2018 and May 2021. These patients were randomly assigned to the training set (n=528) and validation set (n=175). Risk factors affecting prognosis were identified by Cox regression analysis and then used to establish a new score model. The prognostic value was determined by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Results A total of 192 (36.3%) patients in the training cohort and 51 (29.1%) patients in the validation cohort died over the course of 6 months. A new score model was developed with predictors including age, bilirubin, INR, WBC, albumin, ALT and BUN. The new prognostic score (0.022×Age + 0.003×TBil + 0.397×INR + 0.023×WBC- 0.07×albumin + 0.001×ALT + 0.038×BUN) for long-term mortality was superior to three other scores based on both training and internal validation studies. Conclusion This new score model appears to be a valid tool for assessing the long-term survival of AD patients, improving the prognostic value compared with the CTP, MELD and CLIF-C AD scores.
Effect of top electrode material on radiation-induced degradation of ferroelectric thin film structures

The effects of gamma irradiation on the dielectric and piezoelectric responses of Pb[Zr0.52Ti0. 48]O3 (PZT) thin film stacks were investigated for structures with conductive oxide (IrO2) and metallic (Pt) top electrodes. The samples showed, generally, degradation of various key dielectric, ferroelectric, and electromechanical responses when exposed to 2.5 Mrad (Si) 60Co gamma radiation. However, the low-field, relative dielectric permittivity, er, remained largely unaffected by irradiation in samples with both types of electrodes. Samples with Pt top electrodes showed substantial degradation of the remanent polarization and overall piezoelectric response, as well as pinching of the polarization hysteresis curves and creation of multiple peaks in the permittivity-electric field curves post irradiation. The samples with oxide electrodes, however, were largely impervious to the same radiation dose, with less than 5% change in any of the functional characteristics. The results suggest a radiation-induced chang.
Global output feedback stabilization for a class of nonlinear systems with quantized input and output

In this paper, we aim at addressing the problem of global output feedback stabilization for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems with quantized input and output. The nonlinear functions of the system are assumed to satisfy high‐order growth condition on the unmeasurable states. Based on the homogeneous domination approach and sector bound approach, a homogeneous quantized controller computed from quantized output is constructed, and a guideline is derived to select the parameters of the quantizers. Further, it is proved that, with the proposed scheme, the closed‐loop system is globally asymptotically stable. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ON SKOLEM DIFFERENCE MEAN LABELING OF GRAPHS

A graph with vertices and edges is said to have skolem difference mean labeling if it is possible to label the vertices with distinct elements from in such a way that for each edge e = uv, let f*(e) = and the resulting labels of the edges are distinct and are from 1, 2, 3,…, q. A graph that admits a skolem difference mean labeling is called a skolem difference mean graph. In this paper we prove that, , <T o , where T is a Tp-tree, caterpillar , and are skolem difference mean graphs, where T is a Tp-tree, are skolem difference mean graphs.
Automatic Defect Classification Using Semi-Supervised Learning With Defect Localization

Automatic defect classification (ADC) systems automatically classify defects that inevitably occur during semiconductor manufacturing processes. ADC is the beginning of defect management that increases the yield of semiconductor chip production, and prevents accidents in the process. It takes a lot of engineer’s labor to classify defects, but ADC can be the answer to classify all defects at low cost. ADC employs the defect image of a wafer surface, captured using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM images can feature a variety of backgrounds based on the defect position on the wafer and the process steps. The manual classification of SEM images involves significant labor costs related to hiring experienced engineers. Despite recent ADC studies reporting good performance, the lack of labeled images and various backgrounds make it difficult to apply ADC in actual manufacturing processes. To address this issue, automated defect classification with defect localization is proposed herein. To this end, a classification model is specifically designed for reducing the effect of varying backgrounds using defect localization. Defect localization uses an object detection model to provide the region information of defects in SEM images. We aimed to design a classification model and defect detection model using semi-supervised learning to reduce labeling costs. Experimental results indicate that the classification performance, over 15 classes, is improved by 12.56% (9.82%p), as compared with that of supervised models.
Heavy Higgs Coupled to Vector-Like Quarks: Strong CP Problem, Diboson Excess and Search Prospects at the 14 TeV LHC

Motivated by a solution to the strong CP problem we propose a model where a new heavy neutral CP-even Higgs boson couples to vector-like X-quarks enhancing its production cross section and whose dominant decays are into weak bosons. The masses of the vector-like quarks are generated through interactions with a singlet scalar field charged under a broken global U(1) symmetry providing a solution to the strong CP problem by means of the Peccei-Quinn mechanism. We show that with the aid of its couplings to a larger number of new heavy vector-like quarks, a 2 TeV Higgs boson is a viable candidate to explain the diboson excess recently reported by the ATLAS Collaboration within the current statistical uncertainties. We also show that the 14 TeV LHC is capable to discover this heavy Higgs with masses up to 1 TeV in the H! ZZ! ‘ + ‘ ‘ 0+ ‘ 0 search channel using multivariate techniques to tame systematic uncertainties in the backgrounds rates.
Comparative analysis of recent metaheuristic algorithms for maximum power point tracking of solar photovoltaic systems under partial shading conditions

The photovoltaic (PV) system comprises one or more solar panels, a converter/inverter, controllers, and other mechanical and electrical elements that utilize the generated electrical energy by the PV modules. The PV systems are ranged from small roofs or transportable units to massive electric utility plants. The maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controller has been used in PV systems to get the maximum power available. In addition, the MPPT controller is much essential for PV systems to protect the battery devices or direct loads from the power fluctuations received from solar PV panels. There are several MPPT control mechanisms available right now. The most common and commonly applied approaches under constant irradiance are perturb and observe (P&O) and incremental conductance (INC). But such methods show variations in the maximum power point. In this sense, this paper analyses and utilizes two recent metaheuristic algorithms called artificial rabbit optimization (ARO) and the most valuable player (MVP) algorithm for MPPT applications. The performance comparisons are made with the most preferred traditional algorithms, such as P&O and INC. Based on the result obtained, this study recommends that ARO perform better in standard testing conditions than all the other algorithms, but in partially shaded conditions, the MVP algorithm performs better in terms of efficiency and tracking speed.
Dynamic response of a generalized piezoelectric-thermoelastic problem under fractional order theory of thermoelasticity

ABSTRACT The dynamic response of a piezoelectric-thermoelastic rod made of piezoelectric ceramics (PZT-4) subjected to a moving heat source is dealt with in the context of the fractional order theory of thermoelasticity. The piezoelectric-thermoelastic governing equations for the problem are formulated and then solved by means of Laplace transform together with its numerical inversion. The distributions of the considered nondimensional temperature, displacement, stress, and electric potential are obtained and illustrated graphically. The effects of fractional order parameter and the velocity of heat source on the variations of the considered variables are investigated, and the results show that they have significant influence on the variations of the considered variables. The present investigation could be helpful for better understanding the multi-field coupling effect of mechanical, electric, and thermal fields in real piezoelectric ceramics structures, and provide some guidelines in the optimal design of actuators or sensors made of piezoelectric ceramics serving in a thermoelastic environment.
Composite Backscatter Characteristics of Conductive/Dielectric Ships and Sea Surfaces with Breaking Waves under High Sea Conditions

When a radar detects marine targets, the radar echo is influenced by the shape, size and dielectric properties of the targets, as well as the sea surface under different sea conditions and the coupling scattering between them. This paper presents a composite backscattering model of the sea surface and conductive and dielectric ships under different sea conditions. The ship scattering is calculated using the equivalent edge electromagnetic current (EEC) theory. The scattering of the sea surface with wedge-like breaking waves is calculated using the capillary wave phase perturbation method combined with the multi-path scattering method. The coupling scattering between ship and sea surface is obtained using the modified four-path model. The results reveal that the backscattering RCS of the dielectric target is significantly reduced compared with the conducting target. Furthermore, the composite backscattering of the sea surface and ship increases significantly in both HH and VV polarizations when considering the effect of breaking waves under high sea conditions at low grazing angles in the upwind direction, especially for HH polarization. This research offers valuable insights into optimizing radar detection of marine targets in varying sea conditions.
Occupational participation and engagement of woman experiencing premenstrual syndrome: A qualitative study

Introduction: Premenstrual syndrome is commonly experienced by women of reproductive age and encompasses somatic, psychological and behavioural symptoms that recur during the luteal stage of menstrual cycle and resolves during or after menstruation. Although premenstrual syndrome has gained growing interest in recent years, the experience of women living with premenstrual syndrome has not yet been explored from an occupational perspective. Method: This qualitative study an used exploratory and descriptive design to gain a deeper understanding of the lived experience of women with premenstrual syndrome through an occupational lens. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with four women living with premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Each interview was transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Findings: Three themes were identified: (1) occupational disturbance, (2) social impairment and occupational disengagement, and (3) the importance of self-awareness to engage in occupations. Women with premenstrual syndrome symptoms experienced difficulties that impacted their ability to engage in occupations including self-care, productivity and leisure, interfering with their occupational routine and interpersonal relationships. A level of awareness was considered important to manage premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Conclusion: The findings of this study are relevant to understanding the impact of premenstrual symptoms on daily living and for tailoring future interventions to address the occupational needs in women with premenstrual syndrome.
Estimation of sealing performance with quasi-distributed strain sensing in spiral wound gaskets

Modern process industry, particularly (petro)chemical industry faces, many challenges pertaining to sustainability. In this respect, more stringent regulations on reducing emissions are motivating plant and process owners to implement condition monitoring and predictive maintenance strategies. Bolted flange connections equipped with sealing gaskets, for example, can be a significant source of emissions and their performance remains often ambiguous under modern standards. Gasket stress is a key performance indicator of a bolted flange connection, which is typically approximated using methods that rely on many simplifications and assumptions. This study investigates the potential of using fiber-optic sensors, more specifically fiber Bragg gratings, as strain sensors to estimate gasket stress in bolted flange connections with gaskets. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time that said gaskets are instrumented with fiber Bragg gratings. For our experiments, we submit these gaskets to relevant mechanical loads, both in a laboratory setting and in a realistic industrial environment. We analyze the relation between the fiber Bragg grating response and the applied mechanical load to define transfer functions that allow estimating the gasket stress and hence the sealing performance of the flange connection.
Clinical Outcomes of Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty without Routine Prophylactic Peripheral Iridotomy

Objectives: To analyze the outcomes and complications of Descemet‘s membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) performed without prophylactic peripheral iridotomy (PI). Methods: Design: Retrospective study. Setting: Institutional, tertiary care eye hospital. Study Population: All patients who underwent DMEK or DMEK combined with phacoemulsification (DMEK triple) for Fuchs endothelial dystrophy, using a standardized protocol between August 2016 and July 2021, were included. Previous glaucoma surgery, laser PI, aphakia, or complicated pseudophakia were excluded. Main outcome measures: Primary outcomes: Incidence of pupillary block (PB). Secondary outcomes: Graft detachment (GD), rebubbling rates, uncorrected (UCDVA) and best corrected logMAR distance visual acuity (BCDVA), and endothelial cell loss (ECL) at six months. Data were analyzed using the chi-square test and stepwise backward regression analysis. Results: 104 eyes of 72 patients were included. Four eyes (3.8%) developed PB; in two of these cases, standard protocol was not followed. Overall minor GD occurred in 43.2% (n = 45); significant GD was present only in 7 eyes (6.6%). Overall slit lamp rebubbling rate was 30% (n = 35), though only four patients were rebubbled in theatre (3.8%). PB, GD, and rebubbling rates did not vary with the surgeon, surgery, or tamponade (air or SF6 gas). UCDVA, BCDVA, and ECL at 6 months were 0.29 ± 0.31, 0.20 ± 0.28, and 40.46 ± 20.36%, respectively. Conclusions: Compared to previously reported outcomes of DMEK with PI, our results of PI less DMEK using a standardized protocol have a similar incidence of pupillary block, graft detachment, and rebubbling, with comparable visual acuity and endothelial cell loss.
Is teaching and learning in Chinese higher education classrooms internationalized? Perspectives from international students in China

ABSTRACT While China has emerged as a leading host country for international students, it reinforces its determination to build a global knowledge system by integrating Chinese and Western epistemological traditions in teaching and learning to promote epistemic justice. The study aims to explore international students’ challenges to current approaches to teaching and learning in Chinese higher education institutions in relation to the internationalization of curriculum. The study employed a qualitative exploratory design and collected data using semi-structured interviews with 30 international students at two prestigious Chinese universities. Based on the thematic analysis, the results highlight that international students struggle with issues such as Chinese language-dominated instruction, lack of discussion and autonomy in the classroom, limited engagement with domestic (Chinese) students and insufficient practical or hands-on learning opportunities. These findings are analysed against common standards required for the internationalization of teaching and learning. These findings have implications for classroom pedagogy in higher education institutions in China to sustain the interest of international students.