Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Algeria; Highlight on the Focus of M’Sila

Algeria ranks second after Afghanistan for the incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) worldwide. Here, we report a 34-years retrospective analysis of CL in Algeria and focused on the most affected region, the M’Sila province. All 66 cutaneous isolates corresponded to Leishmania (L.) major. Our study of the sandfly and rodent fauna further highlighted the high density of Phlebotomus papatasi and additional phlebotomine species of medical importance, not previously identified in M’Sila. Wild rodents belonging to nine species were trapped in M’Sila, and Psammomys obesus and Meriones shawi were found infected by L. major. In addition, Leishmania infantum was isolated from two visceral leishmaniasis cases, one dog and its proven vectors (P. perniciosus, P. longicuspis, and P. perfiliewi) inventoried during the survey. The high incidence of CL in the M’Sila province is likely a consequence of the increase in minimum temperatures recorded that constitutes suitable conditions for establishing a high endemicity and leads to an explosive rise in leishmaniases cases in this region. A thorough investigation of the underlying risk factors is urgently needed to detect new cases earlier. All these would improve the preparedness to fight the disease.
Detection of the First Epoxyalcohol Synthase/Allene Oxide Synthase (CYP74 Clan) in the Lancelet (Branchiostoma belcheri, Chordata)

The CYP74 clan cytochromes (P450) are key enzymes of oxidative metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids in plants, some Proteobacteria, brown and green algae, and Metazoa. The CYP74 enzymes, including the allene oxide synthases (AOSs), hydroperoxide lyases, divinyl ether synthases, and epoxyalcohol synthases (EASs) transform the fatty acid hydroperoxides to bioactive oxylipins. A novel CYP74 clan enzyme CYP440A18 of the Asian (Belcher’s) lancelet (Branchiostoma belcheri, Chordata) was biochemically characterized in the present work. The recombinant CYP440A18 enzyme was active towards all substrates used: linoleate and α-linolenate 9- and 13-hydroperoxides, as well as with eicosatetraenoate and eicosapentaenoate 15-hydroperoxides. The enzyme specifically converted α-linolenate 13-hydroperoxide (13-HPOT) to the oxiranyl carbinol (9Z,11R,12R,13S,15Z)-11-hydroxy-12,13-epoxy-9,15-octadecadienoic acid (EAS product), α-ketol, 12-oxo-13-hydroxy-9,15-octadecadienoic acid (AOS product), and cis-12-oxo-10,15-phytodienoic acid (AOS product) at a ratio of around 35:5:1. Other hydroperoxides were converted by this enzyme to the analogous products. In contrast to other substrates, the 13-HPOT and 15-HPEPE yielded higher proportions of α-ketols, as well as the small amounts of cyclopentenones, cis-12-oxo-10,15-phytodienoic acid and its higher homologue, dihomo-cis-12-oxo-3,6,10,15-phytotetraenoic acid, respectively. Thus, the CYP440A18 enzyme exhibited dual EAS/AOS activity. The obtained results allowed us to ascribe a name “B. belcheri EAS/AOS” (BbEAS/AOS) to this enzyme. BbEAS/AOS is a first CYP74 clan enzyme of Chordata species possessing AOS activity.
Probability Representation of Quantum States

The review of new formulation of conventional quantum mechanics where the quantum states are identified with probability distributions is presented. The invertible map of density operators and wave functions onto the probability distributions describing the quantum states in quantum mechanics is constructed both for systems with continuous variables and systems with discrete variables by using the Born’s rule and recently suggested method of dequantizer–quantizer operators. Examples of discussed probability representations of qubits (spin-1/2, two-level atoms), harmonic oscillator and free particle are studied in detail. Schrödinger and von Neumann equations, as well as equations for the evolution of open systems, are written in the form of linear classical–like equations for the probability distributions determining the quantum system states. Relations to phase–space representation of quantum states (Wigner functions) with quantum tomography and classical mechanics are elucidated.
Prenatal Exposure to Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals and Subsequent Brain Structure Changes Revealed by Voxel-Based Morphometry and Generalized Q-Sampling MRI

Previous studies have indicated that prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can cause adverse neuropsychiatric disorders in children and adolescents. This study aimed to determine the association between the concentrations of prenatal EDCs and brain structure changes in teenagers by using MRI. We recruited 49 mother–child pairs during the third trimester of pregnancy, and collected and examined the concentration of EDCs—including phthalate esters, perfluorochemicals (PFCs), and heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury)—in maternal urine and/or serum. MRI voxel-based morphometry (VBM) and generalized q-sampling imaging (GQI) mapping—including generalized fractional anisotropy (GFA), normalized quantitative anisotropy (NQA), and the isotropic value of the orientation distribution function (ISO)—were obtained in teenagers 13–16 years of age in order to find the association between maternal EDC concentrations and possible brain structure alterations in the teenagers’ brains. We found that there are several specific vulnerable brain areas/structures associated with prenatal exposure to EDCs, including decreased focal brain volume, primarily in the frontal lobe; high frontoparietal lobe, temporooccipital lobe and cerebellum; and white matter structural alterations, which showed a negative association with GFA/NQA and a positive association with ISO, primarily in the corpus callosum, external and internal capsules, corona radiata, superior fronto-occipital fasciculus, and superior longitudinal fasciculus. Prenatal exposure to EDCs may be associated with specific brain structure alterations in teenagers.
Implementation of Tele-ICU during the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the implementation of a Tele-ICU program during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to describe and analyze the results of the first four months of operation of the program. Methods: This was a descriptive observational study of the implementation of a Tele-ICU program, followed by a retrospective analysis of clinical data of patients with COVID-19 admitted to ICUs between April and July of 2020. Results: The Tele-ICU program was implemented over a four-week period and proved to be feasible during the pandemic. Participants were trained remotely, and the program had an evidence-based design, the objective being to standardize care for patients with COVID-19. More than 100,000 views were recorded on the free online platforms and the mobile application. During the study period, the cases of 326 patients with COVID-19 were evaluated through the program. The median age was 60 years (IQR, 49-68 years). There was a predominance of males (56%). There was also a high prevalence of hypertension (49.1%) and diabetes mellitus (38.4%). At ICU admission, 83.7% of patients were on invasive mechanical ventilation, with a median PaO2/FiO2 ratio < 150. It was possible to use lung-protective ventilation in 75% of the patients. Overall, in-hospital mortality was 68%, and ICU mortality was 65%. Conclusions: Our Tele-ICU program provided multidisciplinary training to health care professionals and clinical follow-up for hundreds of critically ill patients. This public health care network initiative was unprecedented and proved to be feasible during the COVID-19 pandemic, encouraging the creation of similar projects that combine evidence-based practices, training, and Tele-ICU.
The Current State of Antifungal Stewardship in Immunocompromised Populations

Inappropriate antifungal use is prevalent and can lead to drug-resistant fungi, expose patients to adverse drug events, and increase healthcare costs. While antimicrobial stewardship programs have traditionally focused on antibiotic use, the need for targeted antifungal stewardship (AFS) intervention has garnered interest in recent years. Despite this, data on AFS in immunocompromised patient populations is limited. This paper will review the current state of AFS in this complex population and explore opportunities for multidisciplinary collaboration.
Detection of Reproducible Major Effect QTL for Petal Traits in Garden Roses

The detection of QTL by association genetics depends on the genetic architecture of the trait under study, the size and structure of the investigated population and the availability of phenotypic and marker data of sufficient quality and quantity. In roses, we previously demonstrated that major QTL could already be detected in small association panels. In this study, we analyzed petal number, petal size and fragrance in a small panel of 95 mostly tetraploid garden rose genotypes. After genotyping the panel with the 68 K Axiom WagRhSNP chip we detected major QTL for all three traits. Each trait was significantly influenced by several genomic regions. Some of the QTL span genomic regions that comprise several candidate genes. Selected markers from some of these regions were converted into KASP markers and were validated in independent populations of up to 282 garden rose genotypes. These markers demonstrate the robustness of the detected effects independent of the set of genotypes analyzed. Furthermore, the markers can serve as tools for marker-assisted breeding in garden roses. Over an extended timeframe, they may be used as a starting point for the isolation of the genes underlying the QTL.
How Do Health Systems Address Patient Flow When Services Are Misaligned With Population Needs? A Qualitative Study

Background: Patient flow through health services is increasingly recognized as a system issue, yet the flow literature has focused overwhelmingly on localized interventions, with limited examination of system-level causes or remedies. Research suggests that intractable flow problems may reflect a basic misalignment between service offerings and population needs, requiring fundamental system redesign. However, little is known about health systems’ approaches to population–capacity misalignment, and guidance for system redesign remains underdeveloped. Methods: This qualitative study, part of a broader investigation of patient flow in urban Western Canada, explored health-system strategies to address or prevent population–capacity misalignment. We conducted in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of managers in 10 jurisdictions across 4 provinces (N = 300), spanning all healthcare sectors and levels of management. We used the constant comparative method to develop an understanding of relevant strategies and derive principles for system design. Results: All regions showed evidence of pervasive population–capacity misalignment. The most superficial level of response – mutual accommodation (case-by-case problem solving) – was most prevalent; capacity (re)allocation occurred less frequently; population redefinition most rarely. Participants’ insights yielded a general principle: Define populations on the basis of clusters of co-occurring need. However, defining such clusters demands a difficult balance between narrowness/rigidity and breadth/flexibility. Deeper analysis suggested a further principle: Populations that can be divided into homogeneous subgroups experiencing similar needs (eg, surgical patients) are best served by narrow/ rigid models; heterogeneous populations featuring diverse constellations of need (eg, frail older adults) require broad/ flexible models. Conclusion: To remedy population–capacity misalignment, health system planners should determine whether clusters of population need are separable vs. fused, select an appropriate service model for each population, allocate sufficient capacity, and only then promote mutual accommodation to address exceptions. Overreliance on case-by-case solutions to systemic problems ensures the persistence of population–capacity misalignment.
Mitigating the Agglomeration of Nanofiller in a Mixed Matrix Membrane by Incorporating an Interface Agent

Nanodiamonds (ND) have recently emerged as excellent candidates for various applications including membrane technology due to their nanoscale size, non-toxic nature, excellent mechanical and thermal properties, high surface areas and tuneable surface structures with functional groups. However, their non-porous structure and strong tendency to aggregate are hindering their potential in gas separation membrane applications. To overcome those issues, this study proposes an efficient approach by decorating the ND surface with polyethyleneimine (PEI) before embedding it into the polymer matrix to fabricate MMMs for CO2/N2 separation. Acting as both interfacial binder and gas carrier agent, the PEI layer enhances the polymer/filler interfacial interaction, minimising the agglomeration of ND in the polymer matrix, which is evidenced by the focus ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM). The incorporation of PEI into the membrane matrix effectively improves the CO2/N2 selectivity compared to the pristine polymer membranes. The improvement in CO2/N2 selectivity is also modelled by calculating the interfacial permeabilities with the Felske model using the gas permeabilities in the MMM. This study proposes a simple and effective modification method to address both the interface and gas selectivity in the application of nanoscale and non-porous fillers in gas separation membranes.
Multi-Parametric Portfolio to Assess the Fitness and Gonadal Maturation in Four Key Reproductive Phases of Brown Trout

Simple Summary Brown trout is a freshwater fish with economic importance and with a great potential to be used as an environmental biosensor species. Despite being selected as a model species in distinct scientific contexts, in cultured specimens, there is a surprising lack of works investigating the morpho-physiological changes associated with the reproductive cycle; particularly concerning the gonads. In this study, a multi-parameter portfolio of biometric, biochemical, hormonal, and morphological analysis was established, which allowed a seasonal and sex characterization of the gonad status of adult brown trout males and females. Sampling included four reproductive phases: spawning capable (December), regressing (March), regenerating (July), and developing (November). Sex- and season-specific changes were described. The discriminative parameters characterized here stand now as normal baseline values against which abnormal patterns can be compared with. These parameters have the potential to be used as tools for the environmental monitoring of the reproductive status of wild populations and for the control of breeding stocks in aquaculture. Abstract Brown trout is an environmental freshwater sentinel species and is economically important for recreational fishing and aquaculture. Despite that, there is limited knowledge regarding morpho-physiological variations in adults throughout the reproductive cycle. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the fitness and gonadal maturation of cultured adult brown trout in four reproductive phases (spawning capable—December, regressing—March, regenerating—July, and developing—November). The systematic evaluation of males and females was based on biometric, biochemical, and hormonal parameters, along with a histomorphological grading of gonads and the immunophenotype location of key steroidogenic enzymes. The total weight and lengths reached the lowest levels in December. Gonad weights were higher in December and November, while the opposite pattern was found for liver weights. The lowest levels of cholesterol and total protein were also noted during those stages. The 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) and testosterone (T) for males, and estradiol (E2) and T for females, mostly explained the hormonal variations. The immunohistochemistry of cytochrome P450c17 (CYP17-I), aromatase (CYP19), and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) showed sex and site-specific patterns in the distinct reproductive phases. The sex- and season-specific changes generated discriminative multi-parameter profiles, serving as a tool for environmental and aquaculture surveys.
Microemulsion Derived Titania Nanospheres: An Improved Pt Supported Catalyst for Glycerol Aqueous Phase Reforming

Glycerol aqueous phase reforming (APR) produces hydrogen and interesting compounds at relatively mild temperatures. Among APR catalysts investigated in literature, little attention has been given to Pt supported on TiO2. Therefore, herein we propose an innovative titania support which can be obtained through an optimized microemulsion technique. This procedure provided high surface area titania nanospheres, with a peculiar high density of weak acidic sites. The material was tested in the catalytic glycerol APR after Pt deposition. A mechanism hypothesis was drawn, which evidenced the pathways giving the main products. When compared with a commercial TiO2 support, the synthetized titania provided higher hydrogen selectivity and glycerol conversion thanks to improved catalytic activity and ability to prompt consecutive dehydrogenation reactions. This was correlated to an enhanced cooperation between Pt nanoparticles and the acid sites of the support.
Compliance with the WHO 24-hour movement guidelines and associations with body weight status among preschool children in Hong Kong.

This study aimed to investigate the extent to which preschool children in Hong Kong meet the WHO 24-hour movement guidelines and to examine the associations between meeting the guidelines and body weight status. Data from 251 preschoolers (141 boys) aged between three and six years old were analysed. The children wore an activPAL for seven consecutive days to measure physical activity and sleep. Their screen time was reported by their parents using validated questions. Their body weight status was classified as underweight, normal weight or overweight/obese. A total of 2.9% of the preschoolers met all three movement guidelines. Children in compliance with the physical activity, screen time and sleep guidelines accounted for 14.5%, 67.4% and 39.0% of the sample, respectively. There was no significant association between meeting the individual or combined guidelines and body mass index or the odds ratio for being of normal weight. Meeting more guidelines was not associated with body mass index or the odds ratio for being normal weight. Compliance with the 24-hour movement guidelines was extremely low among preschool children in Hong Kong. Meeting the 24-hour movement guidelines was not associated with a favourable weight status among preschoolers. Novelty • Compliance with the WHO 24-hour movement guidelines was extremely low for the early years in Hong Kong. • Further evidence is needed to understand the associations between meeting the guidelines and weight status among preschoolers.
Application of Cellular Resolution Full-Field Optical Coherence Tomography in vivo for the Diagnosis of Skin Tumours and Inflammatory Skin Diseases: A Pilot Study

Background: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been shown to provide non-invasive diagnosis of common skin neoplasms, especially basal cell carcinoma. OCT produces a cross-sectional view of the tissue, similar to a traditionally sectioned histopathological view, but the resolution of conventional OCT is low and thus limits clinical application. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the application ability of a full-field (FF)OCT system which was newly developed to scan the skin at the cellular level. Methods: Patients with skin tumours or inflammatory lesions warranting biopsy were consecutively enrolled. All lesions underwent clinical, dermoscopic, and OCT assessment, followed by routine biopsy. The adjacent normal skin was scanned for comparison. OCT images were interpreted (blinded to the biopsy results) and then compared with the histopathological diagnosis. Results: A total of 111 patients with 115 lesions completed the protocol, including 80 skin tumours, 28 inflammatory diseases, and 7 other diseases. Of the OCT images, 43.5% were of good quality and show expected features. Identifiable features of actinic keratosis, Bowen’s disease, basal cell carcinoma, extramammary Paget’s disease, seborrheic keratosis, large cell acanthoma, bullous pemphigoid, interface dermatitis, lichenoid tissue reaction, and psoriasis were demonstrated. Lesions are located deeply, and so some features were out of the field of view, accounting for 40.0% (46/115). Conclusions: This study expanded the ability of FFOCT for the clinical diagnosis of various skin conditions. This new optical technique can clearly visualise skin lesions located in the epidermis and upper dermis. It provided an effective way to perform digital skin biopsy in superficial skin diseases.
Muscarinic Receptors and BK Channels Are Affected by Lipid Raft Disruption of Salivary Gland Cells

Activity-dependent fluid secretion is the most important physiological function of salivary glands and is regulated via muscarinic receptor signaling. Lipid rafts are important for G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling and ion channels in plasma membranes. However, it is not well understood whether lipid raft disruption affects all membrane events or only specific functions in muscarinic receptor-mediated water secretion in salivary gland cells. We investigated the effects of lipid raft disruption on the major membrane events of muscarinic transcellular water movement in human salivary gland (HSG) cells. We found that incubation with methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD), which depletes lipid rafts, inhibited muscarinic receptor-mediated Ca2+ signaling in HSG cells and isolated mouse submandibular acinar cells. However, MβCD did not inhibit a Ca2+ increase induced by thapsigargin, which activates store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE). Interestingly, MβCD increased the activity of the large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel (BK channel). Finally, we found that MβCD did not directly affect the translocation of aquaporin-5 (AQP5) into the plasma membrane. Our results suggest that lipid rafts maintain muscarinic Ca2+ signaling at the receptor level without directly affecting the activation of SOCE induced by intracellular Ca2+ pool depletion or the translocation of AQP5 into the plasma membrane.
Molecular characterization of Gyps africanus (African white-backed vulture) organic anion transporter 1 and 2 expressed in the kidney

Gyps species have been previously shown to be highly sensitive to the toxic effects of diclofenac, when present in their food sources as drug residues following use as a veterinary medicine. Vultures exposed to diclofenac soon become depressed and die with signs of severe visceral gout and renal damage on necropsy. The molecular mechanism behind toxicity and renal excretion of uric acid is still poorly understood. With the clinical pictures suggesting renal uric acid excretion as the target site for toxicity, as a first step the following study was undertaken to determine the uric acid excretory pathways present in the African white-backed vulture (Gyps africanus) (AWB), one of the species susceptible to toxicity. Using transcriptome analysis, immunohistochemistry and functional predictions, we demonstrated that AWB makes use of the organic anion transporter 2 (OAT2) for their uric acid excretion. RT-qPCR analysis subsequently demonstrated relatively similar expression of the OAT2 transporter in the vulture and chicken. Lastly docking analysis, predicted that the non-steroidal drugs induce their toxicity through an allosteric binding.