bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss of TROP2 and epithelial cell adhesion molecule expression is linked to grade progression in pTa but unrelated to disease outcome in pT2-4 urothelial bladder carcinomas
Authors: Müller Jan H. , Plage Henning , Elezkurtaj Sefer , Mandelkow Tim , Huang Zhihao , Lurati Magalie C. J. , Raedler Jonas B. , Debatin Nicolaus F. , Vettorazzi Eik , Samtleben Henrik , Hofbauer Sebastian , Furlano Kira , Neymeyer Jörg , Goranova Irena , Ralla Bernhard , Weinberger Sarah , Horst David , Roßner Florian , Schallenberg Simon , Marx Andreas H. , Fisch Margit , Rink Michael , Slojewski Marcin , Kaczmarek Krystian , Ecke Thorsten , Hallmann Steffen , Koch Stefan , Adamini Nico , Lennartz Maximilian , Minner Sarah , Simon Ronald , Sauter Guido , Zecha Henrik , Schlomm Thorsten , Bady Elena
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Trophoblast cell surface antigen 2 (TROP2; EpCAM2) is a transmembrane glycoprotein which is closely related to EpCAM (EpCAM; EpCAM1). Both proteins share partial overlapping functions in epithelial development and EpCAM expression but have not been comparatively analyzed together in bladder carcinomas. TROP2 constitutes the target for the antibody-drug conjugate Sacituzumab govitecan (SG; TrodelvyTM) which has been approved for treatment of metastatic urothelial carcinoma by the United States Food and Drug administration (FDA) irrespective of its TROP2 expression status.

Methods

To evaluate the potential clinical significance of subtle differences in TROP2 and EpCAM expression in urothelial bladder cancer, both proteins were analyzed by multiplex fluorescence immunohistochemistry in combination with a deep-learning based algorithm for automated cell detection on more than 2,700 urothelial bladder carcinomas in a tissue microarray (TMA) format.

Results

The staining pattern of TROP2 and EpCAM were highly similar. For both proteins, the staining intensity gradually decreased from pTa G2 low grade (TROP2: 68.8±36.1; EpCAM: 21.5±11.7) to pTa G2 high grade (64.6±38.0; 19.3±12.2) and pTa G3 (52.1±38.7; 16.0±13.0, p<0.001 each). In pT2-4 carcinomas, the average TROP2 and EpCAM staining intensity was intermediate (61.8±40.9; 18.3±12.3). For both proteins, this was significantly lower than in pTa G2 low grade (p<0.001 each) but also higher than in pTa G3 tumors (p=0.022 for TROP2, p=0.071 for EpCAM). Within pT2-4 carcinomas, the TROP2 and EpCAM staining level was unrelated to pT, grade, UICC-category, and overall or tumor-specific patient survival. The ratio TROP2/EpCAM was unrelated to malignant phenotype and patient prognosis.

Conclusion

Our data show that TROP2 and EpCAM expression is common and highly interrelated in urothelial neoplasms. Despite of a progressive loss of TROP2/EpCAM during tumor cell dedifferentiation in pTa tumors, the lack of associations with clinicopathological parameters in pT2-4 cancer argues against a major cancer driving role of both proteins for the progression of urothelial neoplasms.
Case Report: A rare form of congenital erythrocytosis due to SLC30A10 biallelic variants—differential diagnosis and recommendation for biochemical and genetic screening
Authors: Giannini Rosalinda , Agolini Emanuele , Palumbo Giuseppe , Novelli Antonio , Garone Giacomo , Grasso Melissa , Colafati Giovanna Stefania , Matraxia Marta , Piccirilli Eleonora , Deodati Annalisa , Ceglie Giulia
Published: January 2024

Congenital erythrocytosis recognizes heterogeneous genetic basis and despite the use of NGS technologies, more than 50% of cases are still classified as idiopathic. Herein, we describe the case of a 3-year-old boy with a rare metabolic disorder due to SLC30A10 bi-allelic mutations and characterized by hypermanganesemia, congenital erythrocytosis and neurodegeneration, also known as hypermanganesemia with dystonia 1 (HMNDYT1). The patient was treated with iron supplementation and chelation therapy with CaNa2EDTA, resulting in a significative reduction of blood manganese levels and erythrocytosis indexes. Although it couldn't be excluded that the patient's developmental impairment was part of the phenotypic spectrum of the disease, after three months from starting treatment no characteristic extrapyramidal sign was detectable. Our findings suggest the importance of assessing serum manganese levels in patients with unexplained polycythemia and increased liver enzymes. Moreover, we highlight the importance of extended genetic testing as a powerful diagnostic tool to uncover rare genetic forms of congenital erythrocytosis. In the described patient, identifying the molecular cause of erythrocytosis has proven essential for proper clinical management and access to therapeutic options.
Danggui Shaoyao San: comprehensive modulation of the microbiota-gut-brain axis for attenuating Alzheimer’s disease-related pathology
Authors: He Jiawei , Jin Yijie , He Chunxiang , Li Ze , Yu Wenjing , Zhou Jinyong , Luo Rongsiqing , Chen Qi , Wu Yixiao , Wang Shiwei , Song Zhenyan , Cheng Shaowu
Published: January 2024

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD), an age-associated neurodegenerative disorder, currently lacks effective clinical therapeutics. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) holds promising potential in AD treatment, exemplified by Danggui Shaoyao San (DSS), a TCM formulation. The precise therapeutic mechanisms of DSS in AD remain to be fully elucidated. This study aims to uncover the therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanisms of DSS in AD, employing an integrative approach encompassing gut microbiota and metabolomic analyses.

Methods: Thirty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were allocated into three groups: Blank Control (Con), AD Model (M), and Danggui Shaoyao San (DSS). AD models were established via bilateral intracerebroventricular injections of streptozotocin (STZ). DSS was orally administered at 24 g·kg−1·d−1 (weight of raw herbal materials) for 14 days. Cognitive functions were evaluated using the Morris Water Maze (MWM) test. Pathological alterations were assessed through hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining. Bloodstream metabolites were characterized, gut microbiota profiled through 16S rDNA sequencing, and cortical metabolomics analyzed. Hippocampal proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) were quantified using RT-qPCR, and oxidative stress markers (SOD, CAT, GSH-PX, MDA) in brain tissues were measured with biochemical assays.

Results: DSS identified a total of 1,625 bloodstream metabolites, predominantly Benzene derivatives, Carboxylic acids, and Fatty Acyls. DSS significantly improved learning and spatial memory in AD rats and ameliorated cerebral tissue pathology. The formulation enriched the probiotic Ligilactobacillus, modulating metabolites like Ophthalmic acid (OA), Phosphocreatine (PCr), Azacridone A, Inosine, and NAD. DSS regulated Purine and Nicotinate-nicotinamide metabolism, restoring balance in the Candidatus Saccharibacteria-OA interplay and stabilizing gut microbiota-metabolite homeostasis. Additionally, DSS reduced hippocampal IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α expression, attenuating the inflammatory state. It elevated antioxidative enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH-PX) while reducing MDA levels, indicating diminished oxidative stress in AD rat brains.

Conclusion: DSS addresses AD pathology through multifaceted mechanisms, encompassing gut microbiome regulation, specific metabolite modulation, and the mitigation of inflammation and oxidative stress within the brain. This holistic intervention through the Microbial-Gut-Brain Axis (MGBA) underscores DSS’s potential as an integrative therapeutic agent in combatting AD.
Enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in physics: perspectives from North American underground laboratories
Authors: Caden Erica , Kuula Samantha , Zens Rochelle
Published: January 2024

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) are important to drive innovation in many different fields, including particle physics. Underground labs are working on many different fronts to improve EDI in their host countries and within particle physics collaborations. Laboratories can institute policies to protect their staff and make improvements to their facilities to increase accessibility. Laboratories can encourage the scientific collaborations they host to have policies and plans for increasing EDI. SNOLAB and the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) are each supporting their employees and user-bases in different ways. Some examples are targeted outreach, consultation with experimental collaborations on their own policies, EDI training, and Indigenous cultural recognition. These efforts are intended to enhance the equity and inclusion of their communities.
Model-based estimation of AV-nodal refractory period and conduction delay trends from ECG
Authors: Karlsson Mattias , Platonov Pyotr G. , Ulimoen Sara R. , Sandberg Frida , Wallman Mikael
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia, associated with significant burdens to patients and the healthcare system. The atrioventricular (AV) node plays a vital role in regulating heart rate during AF by filtering electrical impulses from the atria. However, it is often insufficient in regards to maintaining a healthy heart rate, thus the AV node properties are modified using rate-control drugs. Moreover, treatment selection during permanent AF is currently done empirically. Quantifying individual differences in diurnal and short-term variability of AV-nodal function could aid in personalized treatment selection.

Methods: This study presents a novel methodology for estimating the refractory period (RP) and conduction delay (CD) trends, and their uncertainty in the two pathways of the AV node during 24 h using non-invasive data. This was achieved by utilizing a network model together with a problem-specific genetic algorithm and an approximate Bayesian computation algorithm. Diurnal variability in the estimated RP and CD was quantified by the difference between the daytime and nighttime estimates, and short-term variability was quantified by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov distance between adjacent 10-min segments in the 24-h trends. Additionally, the predictive value of the derived parameter trends regarding drug outcome was investigated using several machine learning tools.

Results: Holter electrocardiograms from 51 patients with permanent AF during baseline were analyzed, and the predictive power of variations in RP and CD on the resulting heart rate reduction after treatment with four rate control drugs was investigated. Diurnal variability yielded no correlation to treatment outcome, and no prediction of drug outcome was possible using the machine learning tools. However, a correlation between the short-term variability for the RP and CD in the fast pathway and resulting heart rate reduction during treatment with metoprolol (ρ = 0.48, p < 0.005 in RP, ρ = 0.35, p < 0.05 in CD) were found.

Discussion: The proposed methodology enables non-invasive estimation of the AV node properties during 24 h, which—indicated by the correlation between the short-term variability and heart rate reduction—may have the potential to assist in treatment selection.
Application of an end-to-end model with self-attention mechanism in cardiac disease prediction
Authors: Li Li , Chen Xi , Hu Sanjun
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Heart disease is a prevalent global health challenge, necessitating early detection for improved patient outcomes. This study aims to develop an innovative heart disease prediction method using end-to-end deep learning, integrating self-attention mechanisms and generative adversarial networks to enhance predictive accuracy and efficiency in healthcare.

Methods: We constructed an end-to-end model capable of processing diverse cardiac health data, including electrocardiograms, clinical data, and medical images. Self-attention mechanisms were incorporated to capture data correlations and dependencies, improving the extraction of latent features. Additionally, generative adversarial networks were employed to synthesize supplementary cardiac health data, augmenting the training dataset. Experiments were conducted using publicly available heart disease datasets for training, validation, and testing. Multiple evaluation metrics, including accuracy, recall, and F1-score, were employed to assess model performance.

Results: Our model consistently outperformed traditional methods, achieving accuracy rates exceeding 95% on multiple datasets. Notably, the recall metric demonstrated the model’s effectiveness in identifying heart disease patients, with rates exceeding 90%. The comprehensive F1-score also indicated exceptional performance, achieving optimal results.

Discussion: This research highlights the potential of end-to-end deep learning with self-attention mechanisms in heart disease prediction. The model’s consistent success across diverse datasets offers new possibilities for early diagnosis and intervention, ultimately enhancing patients’ quality of life and health. These findings hold significant clinical application prospects and promise substantial advancements in the healthcare field.
Characterization and transformation of the CabHLH18 gene from hot pepper to enhance waterlogging tolerance
Authors: Tian Huaizhi , Fan Gaoling , Xiong Xingwei , Wang Hui , Zhang Suqin , Geng Guangdong
Published: January 2024

Basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) proteins are important in abiotic stress control. Here, a specific bHLH transcription factor gene, CabHLH18, from a strong waterlogging-tolerant pepper cultivar, ‘ZHC2’, was successfully cloned. The CabHLH18 gene presented a coding sequence length of 1,056 bp, encoding 352 amino acids, and the protein was the closest to Capsicum annuum XM016694561.2 protein. The CabHLH18 protein was located in the nucleus. The transformation of the CabHLH18 overexpression vector into the plumules of hot peppers, ‘DFZJ’ and ‘ZHC1’, exhibited 21.37% and 22.20% efficiency, respectively. The root length, plant height, and fresh weight of the ‘DFZJ’ overexpression lines were greater than those of wild-type (WT) plants under waterlogging conditions. Compared with the WT plants, the overexpression lines generally showed greater contents of water, the amino acid, proline, soluble sugar, root viability, and superoxide dismutase activity, but lower malondialdehyde content under waterlogging conditions. Plant fresh weight, amino acids, proline, and soluble sugar levels of the overexpression lines were 39.17%, 45.03%, 60.67%, and 120.18% greater, respectively, compared with the WT plants at 24 h after waterlogging stress. Therefore, the CabHLH18 gene could be implicated in conferring waterlogging tolerance in hot peppers and holds promise for enhancing their overall waterlogging tolerance.
Phenotypic characterization of drought responses in red clover (Trifolium pratense L.)
Authors: Vleugels Tim , Saleem Aamir , Dubey Reena , Muylle Hilde , Borra-Serrano Irene , Lootens Peter , De Swaef Tom , Roldán-Ruiz Isabel
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is a protein-rich, short-lived perennial forage crop that can achieve high yields, but suffers increasingly from drought in different cultivation areas. Breeding for increased adaptation to drought is becoming essential, but at this stage it is unclear which traits breeders should target to phenotype responses to drought that allow them to identify the most promising red clover genotypes. In this study, we assessed how prolonged periods of drought affected plant growth in field conditions, and which traits could be used to distinguish better adapted plant material.

Methods

A diverse panel of 395 red clover accessions was evaluated during two growing seasons. We simulated 6-to-8-week drought periods during two consecutive summers, using mobile rain-out shelters, while an irrigated control field was established in an adjacent parcel. Plant growth was monitored throughout both growing seasons using multiple flights with a drone equipped with RGB and thermal sensors. At various observation moments throughout both growing seasons, we measured canopy cover (CC) and canopy height (CH). The crop water stress index (CWSI) was determined at two moments, during or shortly after the drought event.

Results

Manual and UAV-derived measurements for CH were well correlated, indicating that UAV-derived measurements can be reliably used in red clover. In both years, CC, CH and CWSI were affected by drought, with measurable growth reductions by the end of the drought periods, and during the recovery phase. We found that the end of the drought treatment and the recovery phase of approximately 20 days after drought were suitable periods to phenotype drought responses and to distinguish among genotypes.

Discussion

Multifactorial analysis of accession responses revealed interactions of the maturity type with drought responses, which suggests the presence of two independent strategies in red clover: ‘drought tolerance’ and ‘drought recovery’. We further found that a large proportion of the accessions able to perform well under well-watered conditions were also the ones that were less affected by drought. The results of this investigation are interpreted in view of the development of breeding for adaptation to drought in red clover.
Reuse of coir, peat, and wood fiber in strawberry production
Authors: Woznicki Tomasz , Kusnierek Krzysztof , Vandecasteele Bart , Sønsteby Anita
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Production of strawberries in greenhouses and polytunnels is gaining popularity worldwide. This study investigated the effect of reuse of coir and peat, two substrates commonly adapted to soilless strawberry production, as well as stand-alone wood fiber from Norway spruce, a promising substrate candidate.

Methods

The experiment was performed in a polytunnel at NIBIO Apelsvoll, Norway, and evaluated both virgin substrates, as well as spent materials that were used in one or two years. Yield, berry quality and plant architecture of the strawberry cultivar ‘Malling Centenary’ were registered. In addition, chemical and physical properties of virgin and reused substrates were investigated.

Results

While plants grown in peat and wood fiber had highest yield in the first year of production, the berry yield was slightly reduced when these substrates were utilized for the second and third time. However, yield was comparable to the yield level attained in new and reused coir. Interestingly, berries grown in wood fiber had a tendency to a higher sugar accumulation. This substrate also produced the highest plants. Stand-alone wood fiber was the substrate with the highest accumulation of nitrogen during the three consecutive production cycles. All three investigated materials revealed a trend for decreased potassium accumulation. Wood fiber is characterized by the highest percentage of cellulose, however after three years of production the cellulose content was reducedto the same levels as for coir and peat.

Discussion

Implementation of wood fiber as a growing medium, as well as general practice of substrate reuse can be therefore an achievable strategy for more sustainable berry production.
Perceived discrimination, anxiety and mood disorders among university students during the COVID-19 era: evidence from a cross-sectional survey in a Ghanaian public university
Authors: Darteh Eugene K. M. , Ninnoni Jerry Paul K. , Okyere Joshua , Darteh Florie , John-Langba Johannes , Dickson Kwamena Sekyi
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Before 2020 and the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental disorders, including anxiety and mood disorders, were considered the leading causes of the global disease burden. There is evidence from multiple countries and social contexts that suggest the high risk of anxiety and mood disorders among students. Yet, there is a knowledge gap concerning understanding the association between the experience of discrimination and the risk of anxiety and mood disorders. We examined the association between the experience of discrimination and the risk of anxiety and mood disorders among university students.

Methods

This study is a cross-sectional survey among university students in Ghana. A quota sampling technique was used to recruit 1,601 students. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. All data were analyzed using Stata. Binary logistic regression model was used to examine the significant association between the outcome variable and the explanatory variables.

Results

The prevalence of anxiety disorder among the respondents was 67 per cent. Students who had experienced discrimination or had any member of their family experienced discrimination had higher odds (OR = 4.59, Cl = 2.64, 7.96) of anxiety and mood disorder compared to those who had not experienced any form of discrimination. Respondents aged 20–24 years had higher odds (OR = 1.47, Cl = 1.16, 1.85) of anxiety and mood disorder than those aged 15–19. Students with a high perceived risk of contracting COVID-19 had a higher odd (OR = 1.52, CI = 1.10, 2.10) compared to those with a low perceived risk.

Conclusion

The findings underscore a need for university authorities to lay out clear initiatives that will reinforce and meet the mental health needs of university students during and after periods of crisis, such as returning from COVID-19 lockdown. There must be a conscious effort to advocate and raise students’ awareness of anxiety disorders. Also, it is imperative to create support groups within the university set up to address the mental health needs of all students. Younger students should be the primary focus of these interventions.
Alpha modulation via transcranial alternating current stimulation in adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Kannen Kyra , Rasbach Johanna , Fantazi Amin , Wiebe Annika , Selaskowski Benjamin , Asché Laura , Aslan Behrem , Lux Silke , Herrmann Christoph S. , Philipsen Alexandra , Braun Niclas
Published: January 2024

Background

One potential therapy treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is to modulate dysfunctional brain activations using brain stimulation techniques. While the number of studies investigating the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation on ADHD symptoms continues to increase, transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is poorly examined. Previous studies reported impaired alpha brain oscillation (8–12 Hz) that may be associated with increased attention deficits in ADHD. Our aim was to enhance alpha power in adult ADHD patients via tACS, using different methods to explore potential therapeutic effects.

Methods

Undergoing a crossover design, adults with ADHD received active and sham stimulation on distinct days. Before and after each intervention, mean alpha power, attention performance, subjective symptom ratings, as well as head and gaze movement were examined.

Results

Frequency analyses revealed a significant power increase in the alpha band after both interventions. Despite a trend toward an interaction effect, this alpha power increase was, however, not significantly higher after active stimulation compared to sham stimulation. For the other measures, some additional pre-post effects were found, which were not intervention-related.

Conclusion

Our study cannot provide clear evidence for a tACS-induced increase in alpha power in adult ADHD patients, and thus no stimulation related improvement of attention parameters. We provide further recommendations for the future investigation of tACS as a potential ADHD treatment.
Factors that influence the intent to pursue a master’s degree: evidence from Shandong Province, China
Authors: Zhou Yuhong , Liu Yi , Xue Wenhao , Li Xinyao , Yang Zhe , Xu Zhihua
Published: January 2024

Introduction

In recent years, the pursuit of a master’s degree has become a social phenomenon of wide concern. It is essential to understand why large number of students choose to pursue master’s degree. This study aims to empirically analyze the factors that influence the intent to pursue a master’s degree.

Method

Based on the extended theory of planned behavior, this study conducts a questionnaire survey of university students in Shandong Province, which has had the highest number of people taking the postgraduate entrance examination in China for several years. A total of 440 questionnaires were finally collected, including 417 valid questionnaires. And then ordinary least squares (OLS) regression was used to analyze the factors that influence the intent to pursue a master’s degree.

Results

In general, the intent to pursue a master’s degree is positively influenced by attitude (β = 0.161, p < 0.01) and subjective norms (β = 0.208, p < 0.01), and negatively influenced by risk perception (β = −0.084, p < 0.05). Compared with male students, female students’ intent is more likely to be influenced by risk perception (β = −0.144, p < 0.05) and social factors (β = 0.140, p < 0.05). The intent of upperclass students tends to be positively influenced by perceived behavioral control (β = 0.125, p < 0.05), whereas the negative impact of risk perception (β = −0.219, p < 0.05) on the intent is significant for underclass students. The intent of students in rural areas are more sensitive to risk perception (β = −0.194, p < 0.01) than those of students in cities. In private universities, social factors (β = 0.445, p < 0.05) significantly affect the intent to pursue a master’s degree. In ordinary public universities, the intent of students is more likely to be influenced by risk perception (β = −0.082, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The study is helpful to strengthen the understanding of the influencing factors of the intent to pursue a master’s degree. In general, the intent to pursue a master’s degree is mainly influenced by attitude, subjective norms and risk perception. Moreover, the influencing factors vary among different groups (e.g., female vs. male, rural areas vs. cities). Furthermore, attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, risk perception, and social factors have greater impacts on the intent of students from low-income households than those from high-income households. This study can provide policy implications for universities to take targeted educational measures to encourage students to make a choice that suits their own development after graduation.
Emergence of highly resistant Candida auris in the United Arab Emirates: a retrospective analysis of evolving national trends
Authors: Thomsen Jens , Abdulrazzaq Najiba M. , Oulhaj Abderrahim , Nyasulu Peter S. , Alatoom Adnan , Denning David W. , Al Dhaheri Fatima ,   the UAE AMR Surveillance Consortium, Menezes Godfred Antony , Moubareck Carole Ayoub , Senok Abiola , Everett Dean B.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control lists Candida auris, given its global emergence, multidrug resistance, high mortality, and persistent transmissions in health care settings as one of five urgent threats. As a new threat, the need for surveillance of C. auris is critical. This is particularly important for a cosmopolitan setting and global hub such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where continued introduction and emergence of resistant variant strains is a major concern.

Methods

The United Arab Emirates has carried out a 12 years of antimicrobial resistance surveillance (2010–2021) across the country, spanning all seven Emirates. A retrospective analysis of C. auris emergence from 2018–2021 was undertaken, utilising the demographic and microbiological data collected via a unified WHONET platform for AMR surveillance.

Results

Nine hundred eight non-duplicate C. auris isolates were reported from 2018–2021. An exponential upward trend of cases was found. Most isolates were isolated from urine, blood, skin and soft tissue, and the respiratory tract. UAE nationals nationals comprised 29% (n = 186 of 632) of all patients; the remainder were from 34 other nations. Almost all isolates were from inpatient settings (89.0%, n = 809). The cases show widespread distribution across all reporting sites in the country. C. auris resistance levels remained consistently high across all classes of antifungals used. C. auris in this population remains highly resistant to azoles (fluconazole, 72.6% in 2021) and amphotericin. Echinocandin resistance has now emerged and is increasing annually. There was no statistically significant difference in mortality between Candida auris and Candida spp. (non-auris) patients (p-value: 0.8179), however Candida auris patients had a higher intensive care unit (ICU) admission rate (p-value <0.0001) and longer hospital stay (p < 0.0001) compared to Candida spp. (non-auris) patients.

Conclusion

The increasing trend of C. auris detection and associated multidrug resistant phenotypes in the UAE is alarming. Continued C. auris circulation in hospitals requires enhanced infection control measures to prevent continued dissemination.
The use of automation in the rendition of certain articles of the Saudi Commercial Law into English: a post-editing-based comparison of five machine translation systems
Authors: Alwazna Rafat Y.
Published: January 2024

Efforts to automate translation were made in the 1950s and 1960s, albeit with limited resources compared to current advanced standards. Machine translation is categorised under computational linguistics that examines employing computer software in the rendition of text from one language into another. The present paper seeks to compare five different machine translation systems for the sake of assessing the quality of their outputs in rendering certain articles of the Saudi Commercial Law into English through post-editing based on Human Translation Edit Rate. Each machine translation output is assessed against the same post-edited version, and the closest output to the post-edited version with regard to the use of the same lexicon and word order will achieve the lowest score. The lower the score of the machine translation output is, the higher quality it has. The paper then analyses the results of the Human Translation Edit Rate metric evaluation to ascertain as to whether or not high-quality machine translation outputs always produce acceptable Arabic–English legal translation. The present paper argues that the use of Human Translation Edit Rate metric is a useful tool for the sake of undertaking post-editing procedures as it is a combination of both human evaluation as well as automatic evaluation. It is also advantageous as it takes account of both the use of lexicon and word order. However, such metric cannot be sufficiently depended on as one term substitution, which will be counted according to this metric as a single error, may render the whole sentence invalid, particularly in legal translation. This paper offers a baseline for the quality assessment of machine translation output through post-editing based on Human Translation Edit Rate metric and how its results should be analysed within Arabic–English legal translation context, which may have implications for similar machine translation output quality assessment contexts.
The facilitators and barriers to home-based robotic rehabilitation in India: a pilot feasibility study
Authors: Nehrujee Aravind , Prabhakar A. T. , Balaraman Sathish , Bombatkar Rasika , Prakash Henry , Samuelkamaleshkumar Selvaraj , Aaron Sanjith , Bhattacharji Suranjan , Sujatha S. , Balasubramanian Sivakumar
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Robot-assisted rehabilitation has emerged as a promising approach for enhancing motor function in stroke survivors. However, the feasibility and effectiveness of home-based robotic training in this population are underexplored, especially in low/middle-income countries.

Methods

This feasibility study aimed to address this gap by examining the feasibility and effectiveness of independent home-based training using PLUTO, a robotic device for hand training. A total of 7 chronic stroke survivors were recruited, with 5 completing the study.

Results

The results revealed high engagement and adherence to the home-based training program, with participants averaging 1659.8 min of training over 24.8 days. The PLUTO system demonstrated excellent usability and elicited positive user perceptions. Significant improvements were observed in functional outcomes, as evidenced by a noteworthy increase in Fugl-Meyer Assessment scores (mean increase of 6.2 points, exceeding the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of 5.35 points). Furthermore, participants showed improvements in the ABILHAND measure (mean improvement of 1.24 logits, surpassing the MCID of 0.2 logits) and the Barthel Index (mean increase of 8.8 points).

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of home-based robotic rehabilitation for chronic stroke survivors. This has implications for expanding access to rehabilitation services in low- and middle-income countries, enhancing patient engagement and adherence, and improving functional outcomes. Larger controlled studies are warranted to evaluate the effectiveness of home-based robotic rehabilitation programs.
Case Report: Modified Taulinoplasty: a new technique for minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum
Authors: Frediani Simone , Beati Federico , Pardi Valerio , Aloi Ivan Pietro , Bertocchini Arianna , Accinni Antonella , Reali Simone , Schingo Paolo Maria Salvatore , Inserra Alessandro
Published: January 2024

Introduction

About 95% of congenital chest wall deformities are pectus abnormalities, with pectus excavatum (PE) being the most common. The purpose of this work is to offer a modified Taulinoplasty Technique based on 35 consecutive PE patients' 1-year single-center experience in 2022.

Technique

One minimally invasive procedure for PE is taulinoplasty. In order to prevent invasion of the mediastinum or pleural cavity, it is considered that external traction can be used to raise the sternum. Our experience indicates that the most common surgical consequences of this procedure—which involves creating a submuscular and subcutaneous tunnel to install the metal device—are post-operative seroma and wound dehiscence. We modified the conventional method to achieve more aesthetically pleasing results.

Discussion

Taulinoplasty seems to be a safe technique, easier and more feasible than standard Taulinoplasty, with better outcomes in terms of surgical complications, although further experience is necessary to confirm our preliminary data.
Use of deep learning for the classification of hyperplastic lymph node and common subtypes of canine lymphomas: a preliminary study
Authors: Hubbard-Perez Magdalena , Luchian Andreea , Milford Charles , Ressel Lorenzo
Published: January 2024

Artificial Intelligence has observed significant growth in its ability to classify different types of tumors in humans due to advancements in digital pathology technology. Among these tumors, lymphomas are quite common in dogs, despite studies on the application of AI in domestic species are scarce. This research aims to employ deep learning (DL) through convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to distinguish between normal lymph nodes and 3 WHO common subtypes of canine lymphomas. To train and validate the CNN, 1,530 high-resolution microscopic images derived from whole slide scans (WSIs) were used, including those of background areas, hyperplastic lymph nodes (n = 4), and three different lymphoma subtypes: diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL; n = 5), lymphoblastic (LBL; n = 5), and marginal zone lymphoma (MZL; n = 3). The CNN was able to correctly identify 456 images of the possible 457 test sets, achieving a maximum accuracy of 99.34%. The results of this study have demonstrated the feasibility of using deep learning to differentiate between hyperplastic lymph nodes and lymphomas, as well as to classify common WHO subtypes. Further research is required to explore the implications of these findings and validate the ability of the network to classify a broader range of lymphomas.
COVID-19 Pandemic and Food Insecurity Fuel the Mental Health Crisis in Africa
Authors: Beck Jule , Koebach Anke , Abreu Liliana , Regassa Mekdim Dereje , Hoeffler Anke , Stojetz Wolfgang , Brück Tilman
Published: January 2024

Objective: Providing country-level estimates for prevalence rates of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), COVID-19 exposure and food insecurity (FI) and assessing the role of persistent threats to survival—exemplified by exposure to COVID-19 and FI—for the mental health crisis in Africa.

Methods: Original phone-based survey data from Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Tanzania and Uganda (12 consecutive cross-sections in 2021; n = 23,943) were analyzed to estimate prevalence rates of GAD. Logistic regression models and mediation analysis using structural equation models identify risk and protective factors.

Results: The overall prevalence of GAD in 2021 was 23.3%; 40.2% in Mozambique, 17.0% in Sierra Leone, 18.0% in Tanzania, and 19.1% in Uganda. Both COVID-19 exposure (ORadj. 1.4; CI 1.3–1.6) and FI (ORadj 3.2; CI 2.7–3.8) are independent and significant predictors of GAD. Thus, the impact of FI on GAD was considerably stronger than that of COVID-19 exposure.

Conclusion: Persistent threats to survival play a substantial role for mental health, specifically GAD. High anxiety prevalence in the population requires programs to reduce violence and enhance social support. Even during a pandemic, addressing FI as a key driver of GAD should be prioritized by policymakers.
Climate Change, Community Action, and Health in the Anglophone Caribbean: A Scoping Review
Authors: Myhre Sonja Lynn , Scobie Michelle , Meriläinen Eija , Kelman Ilan , Gopinathan Unni
Published: January 2024

Objective: This scoping review investigates the status of research focusing on the nexus of community action, climate change, and health and wellbeing in anglophone Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Methods: This review was guided by Arksey and O’Malley framework and utilized the PRISMA-ScR checklist. We searched Medline/OVID, PsychInfo, VHL, Sociological Abstracts, Google Scholar, and Scopus to capture interdisciplinary studies published from 1946 to 2021.

Results: The search yielded 3,828 records of which fourteen studies met the eligibility criteria. The analysis assessed study aim, geographic focus, community stakeholders, community action, climate perspective, health impact, as well as dimensions including resources/assets, education/information, organization and governance, innovation and flexibility, and efficacy and agency. Nearly all studies were case studies using mixed method approaches involving qualitative and quantitative data. Community groups organized around focal areas related to fishing, farming, food security, conservation, and the environment.

Conclusion: Despite the bearing these areas have on public health, few studies explicitly examine direct links between health and climate change. Research dedicated to the nexus of community action, climate change, and health in the anglophone Caribbean warrants further study.
Investigation of Collision Damage Mechanisms and Reduction Methods for Pod Pepper
Authors: Wang Gaoliang , He Binghua , Han Dianlei , Zhang He , Wang Xinzhong , Chen Yongcheng , Chen Xuegeng , Zhao Rongqiang , Li Guoyu
Published: January 2024

This study aims to address the current situation of the late start of mechanized harvesting technology for the pod pepper, the high damage rate of existing pod pepper harvesters, and the lack of theoretical support for key harvesting components. The Hertz theory is employed to investigate the damage mechanism of collisions between pod pepper and comb fingers. The study analyzes the maximum deformation of pod pepper and the critical speed at which damage occurs during the collision process. Furthermore, it explores the critical relative speed that leads to damage in pod pepper. Orthogonal tests are conducted to analyze the effects of rotational speed, hose thickness, and moisture content on the efficiency of pod pepper picking. The experimental results are then subjected to multifactorial ANOVA to identify the optimal test parameters. The structural and motion parameters of the picking device are optimized based on these conditions. It is determined that the critical relative velocity for damage to pod pepper during a collision with the comb finger is V0 = 11.487 m s−1. The collision velocities of pod pepper with different hose thicknesses are analyzed using the i-SPEED TR endoscopic high-speed dynamic analysis system to obtain the corresponding collision velocities for different hose thicknesses. The study finds that rotational speed, hose thickness, and the water content of pod pepper affect the damage rate and stem shedding rate. The optimal experimental parameters are determined to be a rotational speed of 705.04 rpm, hose thickness of 3 mm, and water content of the pepper of 71.27%.
Calibration and Testing of Parameters for the Discrete Element Simulation of Soil Particles in Paddy Fields
Authors: Zhong Peizhao , Jia Weiqing , Yang Wenwu , He Jianfei , Zhang Erli , Yu Dongyang , Xu Yuhang , Chen Jianpeng , Peng Feihu , Zeng Guoxiang , Zhang Chen , Zeng Shiqi , Gao Bo , Pei Haihai , Wang Zaiman
Published: January 2024

The parameters of the discrete element simulation model for rice field soils serve as valuable data references for investigating the dynamic characteristics of the walking wheel of high-speed precision seeding machinery in paddy fields. The research specifically targets clay loam soil from a paddy field in South China. Calibration of essential soil parameters was achieved using EDEM_2022 software (and subsequent versions) discrete element simulation software, employing the Edinburgh Elasto-Plastic Adhesion (EEPA) nonlinear elastic-plastic contact model. The tillage layer and plough sub-base layer underwent calibration through slump and uniaxial compression tests, respectively. Influential contact parameters affecting slump and axial pressure were identified through a Plackett–Burman test. The optimal contact parameter combinations for the discrete element model of the tillage layer and plough sub-base layer were determined via a quadratic rotational orthogonal test. The accuracy of the discrete element simulation model’s parameters for paddy field soils was further validated through a comparative analysis of the simulation test’s cone penetration and the field soil trench test. Results indicate that the Coefficient of Restitution, surface energy, Contact Plasticity Ratio, and Tensile Exp significantly influence slump (p < 0.05). Additionally, the Coefficient of Restitution, Contact Plasticity Ratio, coefficient of rolling friction, and Tangential Stiff Multiplier significantly impact axial pressure (p < 0.05). Optimal contact parameters for the plough layer were achieved with a particle recovery coefficient of 0.49, a surface energy of 18.52 J/m2, a plastic deformation ratio of 0.45, and a tensile strength of 3.74. For the plough subsoil layer, optimal contact parameters were a particle recovery coefficient of 0.47, a coefficient of interparticle kinetic friction of 0.32, a plastic deformation ratio of 0.49, and a tangential stiffness factor of 0.31. Results from the cone penetration test reveal no significant disparity in compactness between the actual experiment and the simulation test. The calibrated discrete element model’s contact parameters have been verified as accurate and reliable. The findings of this study offer valuable data references for understanding the dynamic characteristics of the walking wheel of the entire machinery in high-speed precision seeding in paddy fields.
Determinants of Financial Security of European Union Farms—A Factor Analysis Model Approach
Authors: Szafraniec-Siluta Ewa , Strzelecka Agnieszka , Ardan Roman , Zawadzka Danuta
Published: January 2024

The objective of this study was to assess the level of financial security of farms and identify its determinants based on factor analysis. The data used in this research were obtained from the European FADN (Farm Accountancy Data Network). Factor analysis (FA) was employed to reduce the number of variables that potentially determine the financial security of farms. The results indicate that the surveyed entities maintained financial security between 2014 and 2021. This study suggests that it is necessary to examine these factors separately for farms engaged in crop farming and animal production. The results obtained for all farms were less satisfactory than those that took into account the specifics of agricultural production. This study addresses a gap in the literature by including highly correlated variables in the analysis of the determinants of financial security. Factor analysis is used to reduce the number of variables without losing important information. Firstly, seventeen variables related to the financial security of all farms were assigned to six factors. These were income and self-financing of operations; area and subsidies; long-term investments and financial decisions consequences; economic size, taxes, and non-breeding livestocks; investment activity; and inputs, stock, short-term loans, and labor. Then, the determinants of the financial security of farms were examined, taking into account the specialization of activities. For crop-producing farms, six factors were identified, including three that were identical to those for all farms: income and self-financing of operations; long-term investment and financial decisions consequences; and investment activity. In addition, the following items were specified: area, subsidies, non-breeding livestocks, and taxes; economic size, inputs, and labor; and stock and short-term loans. The correlated variables in the case of livestock production combined into factors in a different way. In this case, four factors were distinguished: economic size, non-breeding livestocks, income, and self-financing of operations; operational activities of animal production; long-term investment and financial decisions consequences; and investment activity. Financial security is a complex matter that can be affected by a range of factors related to agricultural activities.
A Study of an Agricultural Indoor Robot for Harvesting Edible Bird Nests in Vietnam
Authors: Trinh Duc Anh Vu , Thinh Nguyen Truong
Published: January 2024

This study demonstrates robot technology for harvesting edible bird’s nests within swiftlet houses. A comprehensive manipulator’s movement analysis of harvesting operation with a separating tool is provided for precisely collecting swiftlet nests. A robotic manipulator mounted on a mobile platform with a vision system is also analyzed and evaluated in this study. The actual harvesting or separating the swiftlet nests is performed with visual servo feedback. The manipulator performs the gross motions of separating tools and removing the nests under computer control with velocity and position feedback. The separating principle between the objective nest and wooden frame has been applied to a demonstration removal of nests using a four-degrees-of-freedom manipulator to perform the gross movements of tool. The actual separations using this system are accomplished as fast as the manipulator can be controlled to perform the necessary deceleration and topping at the end of separating. This is typically 2.0 s. This efficiency underscores the system’s capability for swift and precise operation in harvesting an edible bird nest task.