Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Spatial–Temporal Variations in Parasitological Prevalence and Host-Related Risk Factors of Camel Trypanosomiasis and Its Vectors in North Eastern Kenya: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Study

Camel trypanosomiasis (Surra) is endemic in the Horn of Africa. Understanding the spatiotemporal variations in Surra prevalence, vector dynamics, and host-related risk factors is important in developing effective control strategies. A repeated cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the Surra parasitological prevalence, livestock reservoirs, vector density/diversity, and host-related risk factors in Kenya. Random samples of 847, 1079, and 824 camels were screened at the start of the dry season, peak dry season, and during the rainy season, respectively. Blood samples were examined using the dark ground/phase contrast buffy-coat technique, and Trypanosoma species were identified based on their movement and morphology in wet and stained thin smears. Reservoir status for Trypanosoma evansi was assessed in 406 cattle and 372 goats. A rainy and dry seasons entomological surveys were conducted to determine the Surra vector abundance/diversity and spatiotemporal density changes. Surra prevalence was 7.1%, 3.4%, and 4.1% at the start of the dry season, peak dry season, and rainy season, respectively. Camel co-infections by Trypanozoon (T. evansi or Trypanosoma brucei brucei) and Trypanosoma vivax were recorded. Spatial variations in Surra prevalence were recorded at the beginning of dry (X(7, N = 846)2 = 110.9, p ≤ 0.001), peak dry (X(7, N = 1079)2 = 42.2, p ≤ 0.001), and rainy (X(7, N = 824)2 = 29.1, p ≤ 0.001) seasons. The screened cattle and goats tested negative for Trypanozoon (T. evansi or T. b. brucei), while two cattle tested positive for Trypanosoma congolense. Biting fly catches were composed of a single species from Tabanus, Atylotus, Philoliche, Chrysops, and Stomoxys genera. The total catches for Philoliche, Chrysops, and Stomoxys were higher in the rainy than dry season consistent with the prevalence results. Surra remains an important camel disease in the region with its prevalence varying in space and time. Camel co-infections by Trypanozoon (T. evansi or T. b. brucei) and T. vivax necessitate proper diagnosis of suspected cases and targeted therapy.
Male Clinical Parameters (Age, Stature, Weight, Body Mass Index, Smoking History, Alcohol Consumption) Bear Minimal Relationship to the Level of Sperm DNA Fragmentation

This retrospective cohort study reports on 1291 males who were the partners of women presenting with infertility requiring assisted reproduction and who had sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) levels measured by the Halosperm test. These men provided clinical and biometric details which included their age, stature, weight, and body mass index (BMI). Of these men, 562 (43.5%) provided detailed historical records of their smoking and alcohol histories. The aim of this study was to determine whether any clinical and biometric parameters, or main lifestyle factors, had any influence on SDF. We found that the only clinical parameter with a direct correlation was that of advancing age (r = 0.064, p = 0.02), but none of the biometric parameters of stature, weight, or BMI showed any significant correlation. In respect to lifestyle, there were significant correlations with smoking history, but not in the way we expected. Our data showed significantly elevated SDF levels among non-smokers (p = 0.03) compared with smokers. We also found that, among the non-smokers, ex-smokers had higher SDF levels (p = 0.03). With respect to alcohol, consumers did not show any significant differences in SDF levels. These lifestyle findings did not show any significant relevance with respect to an SDF level of <15% or ≥15%. Furthermore, logistic regression analysis excluded age as a confounder in these lifestyle findings. It is therefore concluded that, apart from age, both clinical and lifestyle aspects have minimal relevance to SDF.
Universally Designed Accommodations on a Reading Comprehension Test: What Do They Accomplish?

To investigate the impact of universal testing accommodations on a computer-based reading comprehension test, accessibility, reliability, and validity were evaluated. Tests with and without accommodations were administered to 131 twelfth-grade students in three U.S. schools. Scores on Curriculum-Based Measurement probes determined groups of students without functional impairment (n = 83) and students with functional impairment (n = 44) in the access skill of reading fluency. Results indicated that ability in access skills is associated with use of accommodations, and that high accessibility can assist in removing the impact of construct-irrelevant skill. No score boost or differential boost was found; validity evaluation offered meaningful results. No reliability change was found. The results of this study support child study team members individualizing accommodations to target deficits in access skills, selecting accommodations on criteria other than differential boost, and offering appropriate accommodations more universally.
The Effect of Plyometrics Exercise through Agility Ladder Drill on Improving Physical Abilities of 13–15-Year-Old Volleyball Players

Study purpose. The purpose of this study was to test the plyometrics training method through agility ladder drills to increase leg muscle power, agility, and aerobic endurance in 13-15-year-old volleyball players. Materials and methods. The research method used was an experiment with a one-group pretest-posttest and pretest-posttest control group approach. The participants were 30 male volleyball players weighing 57-67 kilograms and 157-170 cm in height. Vertical jump, agility t-test, and multistage fitness test were used in this study. Data gathering methods included observation and tests, while data analysis methods included descriptive analysis, Wilcoxon, and Mann-Whitney nonparametric analysis. Results. Descriptive data revealed a difference in the mean value of the pretest and posttest of the experimental group. Furthermore, it also showed a difference in the mean value of the experimental and control groups. In the Wilcoxon test, the value of Asymp. sig(2-tailed) was 0.006<0.05, agility was 0.001<0.05, and endurance was 0.001<0.05. In the Mann-Whitney test, the value of Asymp. sig(2-tailed) was 0.416>0.05, agility was 0.00<0.05, and endurance was 0.00<0.05. Conclusions. In the experimental group, the posttest score is higher than the pretest score on power, agility, and endurance. In volleyball players aged 13-15 years, there is a significant effect, with the experimental group outperforming the control group in terms of power, agility, and endurance. As a result, one of the recommended exercises for young volleyball players is the plyometrics training method using an agility ladder drill.
A correlational study investigating whether semantic knowledge facilitates face identity processing

ABSTRACT The ability to recognize faces is a fundamental skill in human social interaction. While much research has focused on the recognition of familiar faces, there is growing interest in understanding the cognitive processes underlying the recognition of unfamiliar faces. Previous studies have suggested that both semantic knowledge and physical features play a role in unfamiliar face recognition, but the nature of their relationship is not well understood. This study examines the relationship between unfamiliar face recognition ability and the encoding abilities of semantic knowledge and physical features for famous faces. Using the Gorilla platform, a large group of participants (N = 66) with a broad age range completed three tasks: a challenging unfamiliar face matching task and Famous People Recognition Tests 1 and 2 to evaluate semantic and physical feature encoding abilities, respectively. Results indicate positive correlations between encoding abilities for both semantic knowledge and physical features of familiar faces with Model Face Matching Task scores. Additionally, the encoding ability for semantic knowledge was found to be positively associated with that of physical features.
Psychological, Socio-Demographic, and Logistical Factors Associated With Changes in Sex Life After Over a Year Into the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract This study examined changes in sex life about a year into the COVID-19 pandemic for both partnered and non-partnered individuals and identified the determinants of these changes. The results of an online survey (N = 675) reflect a significant decrease in the frequency of intimate and sexual behaviors and declines in sexual desire, quality, intimacy, diversity, and satisfaction. This study also showed that socio-demographic characteristics, psychological factors, and the logistical impacts of the pandemic explain trends in people’s sex lives during the pandemic. This study contributes to understanding the long(er)-term nature, scope, and determinants of changes in sex life during the pandemic.
Computed tomography virtual oesophagography for the grading of oesophageal varices in cirrhotic liver disease patients with upper gastrointestinal endoscopic examination as the gold standard: a diagnostic validation study

Purpose Virtual endoscopy is a postprocessing method using three-dimensional computed tomography (CT), which produces views of the inner surfaces of the human body like those produced by fibreoptic endoscopy. To evaluate and categorise patients who require medical or endoscopic band ligation to prevent oesophageal variceal bleed, a less invasive, less expensive, better tolerated, and more sensitive modality is required, as well as to reduce the use of invasive procedures in the follow-up of patients who do not require endoscopic variceal band ligation. Material and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Radiodiagnosis in association with the Department of Gastroenterology. The study was conducted over a period of 18 months from July 2020 to January 2022. The sample size was calculated as 62 patients. Patients were recruited on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria after giving informed consent. CT virtual endoscopy was performed through a dedicated protocol. Classification of variceal grading was done independently by a radiologist and endoscopist who were blinded to each other’s findings. Results The diagnostic performance of oesophageal varices detection by CT virtual oesophagography was good, with sensitivity: 86%, specificity: 90%, PPV: 98%, NPV: 56%, and diagnostic accuracy: 87%. There was substantial agreement between the 2 methods, and this agreement was statistically significant (Cohen’s k = 0.616, p ≤ 0.001). Conclusions Based on our findings, we conclude that the current study has the potential to change the way chronic liver disease is managed, as well as generate similar medical research endeavours. A multicentric study with a large number of patients is needed to improve the experience with this modality.
Anesthetic management of the traumatic brain injury patients undergoing non-neurosurgery

This article describes the anesthetic management of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) undergoing non-neurosurgery, primarily targeting intraoperative management for multiple-trauma surgery. The aim of this review is to promote the best clinical practice for patients with TBI in order to prevent secondary brain injury. Based on the current clinical guidelines and evidence, anesthetic selection and administration; maintenance of optimal cerebral perfusion pressure, oxygenation and ventilation; coagulation monitoring; glucose control; and temperature management are addressed. Neurological recovery, which is critical for improving the patient’s quality of life, is most important; therefore, future research needs to be focused on this aspect.
Organelle Membrane Extensions in Mammalian Cells

Simple Summary Within cells, there are numerous compartments called ‘organelles’ that perform a range of specialised functions required to support life. Organelles are constantly adapting to their environment, changing shape and cooperating with each other depending on the cellular needs, which is essential for cell health as defects in these processes lead to human diseases. One example of organelle dynamic behaviour is the formation of thin tubules that extend and retract from the membranes that delimit the organelles. With a focus on two organelles (peroxisomes and mitochondria) that have roles in cell metabolism and protection, we examine how and why these membrane extensions form, and what their function is within the cell. This includes forming new organelles or organelle networks; increasing the organelle surface area to maximise uptake of molecules; mediating communication between different organelles. We propose that these membrane extensions allow organelles to ‘reach out’ and explore their surroundings more efficiently. Together, this review highlights the importance of organelle dynamics, and specifically membrane extension, in maintaining healthy cell function, as well as exploring the questions remaining to be answered to further our understanding of this essential aspect of cell biology. Abstract Organelles within eukaryotic cells are not isolated static compartments, instead being morphologically diverse and highly dynamic in order to respond to cellular needs and carry out their diverse and cooperative functions. One phenomenon exemplifying this plasticity, and increasingly gaining attention, is the extension and retraction of thin tubules from organelle membranes. While these protrusions have been observed in morphological studies for decades, their formation, properties and functions are only beginning to be understood. In this review, we provide an overview of what is known and still to be discovered about organelle membrane protrusions in mammalian cells, focusing on the best-characterised examples of these membrane extensions arising from peroxisomes (ubiquitous organelles involved in lipid metabolism and reactive oxygen species homeostasis) and mitochondria. We summarise the current knowledge on the diversity of peroxisomal/mitochondrial membrane extensions, as well as the molecular mechanisms by which they extend and retract, necessitating dynamic membrane remodelling, pulling forces and lipid flow. We also propose broad cellular functions for these membrane extensions in inter-organelle communication, organelle biogenesis, metabolism and protection, and finally present a mathematical model that suggests that extending protrusions is the most efficient way for an organelle to explore its surroundings.
Customisable Fault and Performance Monitoring Across Multiple Clouds

: Monitoring the proper functioning and performance of an infrastructure spanning multiple Cloud datacentres is challenging. It requires continuously aggregating monitored data across multiple source machines and processing them so to obtain useful alerts and insights. In this article, we propose a simple open-source prototype tool to perform highly customisable fault and performance monitoring across multiple Clouds. Differently from commercial tools, our prototype is simpler to deploy and it can be configured through a declarative approach, by simply specifying data monitoring tasks and aggregation policies. We illustrate such peculiarities over a use case relying on three datacentres under the Italian Research and Education Network Consortium.
Inflammatory polyarthritis induced by nivolumab treatment in a patient with malignant melanoma: A case report

Nivolumab is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits the programmed death ligand 1 from binding with PD-1 and restricts T-cell inactivation against cancer cells. After the introduction of nivolumab, in addition to its known side effects, its relationship with some rheumatic diseases has been reported, but it has not been clearly demonstrated. Here,we presented a case of inflammatory polyarthritis in a patient treated with nivolumab for malignant melanoma. This case resulted from the use of PD-1 blocker; It supports that we should be careful about rare side effects besides causing some adverse events due to autoimmune activation in patients.
Mutations in Homologous Recombination Genes and Loss of Heterozygosity Status in Advanced-Stage Breast Carcinoma

Simple Summary The clinical significance of next-generation sequencing coupled with HRR gene analysis of the benefit of poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase inhibitor (PARPi) treatment in patients with breast cancer is unknown. We analyzed the tumor mutations in homologous recombination (HRR) genes and the loss of heterozygosity (LOH) score in 63 patients with advanced-stage breast carcinoma. We found an HRR gene mutation and an LOH-high score were associated with unfavorable pathological features. Comprehensive genomic profiling revealed that a subset of breast carcinomas with an HRR gene mutation other than BRCA1/2 had a low LOH score. In order to identify potential eligible patients for PARPi therapy, appropriate testing is warranted and requires further investigation. Abstract Poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPis) have demonstrated antitumor activity in cancers with a homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) and have recently been approved by the FDA for the treatment of germline BRCA1/2-mutation-associated breast cancer. PARPis have also been found to be efficacious in BRCA wild-type (BRCAwt) lesions with high genomic loss of heterozygosity (LOH-high). The goal of this study was to retrospectively investigate the tumor mutations in homologous recombination (HRR) genes and the LOH score in advanced-stage breast carcinomas (BCs). Sixty-three patients were included in our study, 25% of whom had HRR gene mutations in their tumors, including 6% BRCA1/2 and 19% non-BRCA-containing gene mutations. An HRR gene mutation was associated with a triple-negative phenotype. Twenty-eight percent of the patients had an LOH-high score, which, in turn, was associated with a high histological grade, a triple-negative phenotype, and a high tumor mutational burden (TMB). Among the six patients who received PARPi therapy, one had a tumor with a PALB2 mutation other than BRCA and had a clinical partial response. Twenty-two percent of the LOH-low tumors had BRCAwt–HRR gene mutations, compared with 11% of the LOH-high tumors. Comprehensive genomic profiling revealed a subset of breast cancer patients with a BRCAwt–HRR gene mutation that would be missed by an LOH test. The necessity of next-generation sequencing coupled with HRR gene analysis for PARPi therapy requires further investigation in clinical trials.
Association between CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer patients treated with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors: a systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT Background A meta-analysis method was used to investigate the prognostic value of CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Methods A database search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library up until 7 February, 2023. A clinical study on the relationship between CD8+ TILs and PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in the therapeutics of NSCLC. RevMan 5.3 and StataMP 17.0 software were used for meta-analysis. The outcome indicators incorporated overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and objective response rate (ORR). Results Nineteen articles with 1488 patients were included. The analysis results showed that high CD8+ TILs were associated with better OS (HR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.46–0.77; P < 0.0001), PFS (HR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.53–0.88; P = 0.003) and ORR (OR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.52–3.36; P < 0.0001) in NSCLC patients treated with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Subgroup analysis indicated that patients with high CD8+ TILs had good clinical prognostic benefits whether the location of CD8+ TILs was intratumoral or stromal, and compared with East Asian, high CD8+ TILs in Caucasians showed a better prognosis. High CD8+ TILs in peripheral blood did not improve OS (HR = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.69–1.01; P = 0.06) and PFS (HR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.61–1.14; P = 0.76) in NSCLC patients receiving PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Conclusion In spite of the location of CD8+ TILs, high densities of CD8+ TILs were predictive of treatment outcomes in NSCLC patients treated with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. However, high CD8+ TILs in peripheral blood had no predictive effect.
Research on the Influencing Factors of Capital Asset Income ---- Is Based on the Fama-French Three-Factor Model

Capital asset pricing is very important to the development of listed companies. It is not only related to the performance of micro enterprises, but also related to the stability and development of macro financial markets. Therefore, the in-depth study of the law and influencing factors of listed companies’ return on capital assets is a theoretical problem worthy of in-depth exploration, but also has significant practical significance. In this paper, 160 stocks from 2012 to 2021 are selected for empirical analysis, and it is concluded that stocks of small-scale companies can realize good risk hedging as a hedge tool, and the trend of large-scale high-yield stocks conforms to the traditional capital asset pricing theory.
Lagrangian Reconstruction of Barrow Holographic Dark Energy in Interacting Tachyon Model

We consider a correspondence between the tachyon dark energy model and Barrow holographic dark energy (BHDE). The latter is a modified scenario based on the application of the holographic principle with Barrow entropy instead of the usual Bekenstein–Hawking one. We reconstruct the dynamics of the tachyon scalar field T in a curved Friedmann–Robertson–Walker universe both in the presence and absence of interactions between dark energy and matter. As a result, we show that the tachyon field exhibits non-trivial dynamics. In a flat universe, T˙2 must always be vanishing, independently of the existence of interaction. This implies ωD=−1 for the equation-of-state parameter, which in turn can be used for modeling the cosmological constant behavior. On the other hand, for a non-flat universe and various values of the Barrow parameter, we find that T˙2 decreases monotonically for increasing cos(Rh/a) and cosh(Rh/a), where Rh and a are the future event horizon and the scale factor, respectively. Specifically, T˙2≥0 for a closed universe, while T˙2<0 for an open one, which is physically not allowed. We finally comment on the inflation mechanism and trans-Planckian censorship conjecture in BHDE and discuss observational consistency of our model.