bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae: a retrospective analysis of emerging trends in the United Arab Emirates from 2010 to 2021
Authors: Senok Abiola , Thomsen Jens , Abdulrazzaq Najiba M. ,   The UAE AMR Surveillance Consortium, Menezes Godfred Antony , Ayoub Moubareck Carole , Everett Dean
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Although pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV) have been effective in reducing the burden of Streptococcus pneumoniae infections, there is a paucity of data on the relationship with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) trends in the Arabian Gulf region. This study was carried out to assess S. pneumoniae resistance trends in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) where PCV-13 vaccination was introduced in 2011.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of S. pneumoniae demographic and microbiological data collected as part of the national AMR surveillance program from 2010 to 2021 was carried out. A survey of reporting sites and hand searching of annual reports of local health authorities was carried out to identify data on S. pneumoniae serotypes as this is not included in the AMR surveillance database.

Results

From 2010 to 2021, 11,242 non-duplicate S. pneumoniae isolates were reported, increasing from 324 in 2010 to 1,115 in 2021. Factoring in annual increment in the number of surveillance sites, the number of isolates per site showed an upward trajectory from 2015 to 2018 and declined in 2020 with the onset of the pandemic. The majority of isolates (n/N = 5,751/11,242; 51.2%) were from respiratory tract specimens with 44.5% (n/N = 2,557/5,751) being nasal colonizers. Up to 11.9% (n/N = 1,337/11,242) were invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) isolates obtained from sterile site specimens including blood (n = 1,262), cerebrospinal (n = 52), pleural (n = 19) and joint (n = 4) fluid; and were predominantly from pediatric patients. The downward trend for amoxicillin and for penicillin G at the non-meningitis and meningitis as well as oral penicillin breakpoints was statistically significant. In contrast, increasing trends of resistance were seen for levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and erythromycin. IPD and non-IPD isolates showed similar demographic and AMR trends. None of the surveillance sites carried out S. pneumoniae serotyping and handsearching of annual reports did not yield this information.

Conclusion

The increasing trend of pneumococcal disease and AMR with emergence of isolates with MDR phenotype despite is of concern. In the absence of S. pneumoniae serotyping the role of non-vaccine serotypes in driving this pattern remains unknown. There is an urgent need for serotype, genomic and AMR surveillance of S. pneumoniae isolates in the UAE.
Prevalence of intestinal colonization and nosocomial infection with carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriales in children: a retrospective study
Authors: Pan Fen , Chen Pengcheng , Duan Yuxin , Yu Fangyuan , Weng Wenhao , Zhang Hong
Published: November 2023

Objective

We investigated the epidemiological surveillance of the intestinal colonization and nosocomial infection of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriales (CRE) isolates from inpatients, which can provide the basis for developing effective prevention.

Methods

A total of 96 CRE strains were collected from 1,487 fecal samples of hospitalized children between January 2016 and June 2017, which were defined as the “CRE colonization” group. In total, 70 CRE clinical isolates were also randomly selected for the comparison analysis and defined as the “CRE infection” group. The antimicrobial susceptibility of all strains was determined by the microdilution broth method. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to analyze carbapenemase genes, plasmid typing, and integrons. Multilocus sequence typing was further used to determine clonal relatedness.

Results

In the “CRE colonization” group, Klebsiella pneumoniae was mostly detected with a rate of 42.7% (41/96), followed by Escherichia coli (34.4%, 33/96) and Enterobacter cloacae (15.6%, 15/96). The ST11 KPC-2 producer, ST8 NDM-5 producer, and ST45 NDM-1 producer were commonly present in carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae (CRKPN), carbapenem-resistant E. coli (CRECO), and carbapenem-resistant E. cloacae (CRECL) isolates, respectively. In the “CRE infection” group, 70% (49/70) of strains were K. pneumoniae, with 21.4% E. cloacae (15/70) and 5.7% E. coli (4/70). The ST15 OXA-232 producer and ST48 NDM-5 producer were frequently observed in CRKPN isolates, while the majority of NDM-1-producing CRECL isolates were assigned as ST45. Phylogenetic analysis showed that partial CRE isolates from intestinal colonization and nosocomial infection were closely related, especially for ST11 KPC-2-producing CRKPN and ST45 NDM-1-producing CRECL. Furthermore, plasmid typing demonstrated that IncF and IncFIB were the most prevalent plasmids in KPC-2 producers, while IncX3/IncX2 and ColE were widely spread in NDM producer and OXA-232 producer, respectively. Then, class 1 integron intergrase intI1 was positive in 74.0% (71/96) of the “CRE colonization” group and 52.9% (37/70) of the “CRE infection” group.

Conclusion

This study revealed that CRE strains from intestinal colonization and nosocomial infection showed a partial correlation in the prevalence of CRE, especially for ST11 KPC-2-producing CRKPN and ST45 NDM-1-producing CRECL. Therefore, before admission, long-term active screening of rectal colonization of CRE isolates should be emphasized.
Development of mobile health-based interventions to promote physical activity in patients with head and neck cancer: a qualitative study
Authors: Ning Yan , Dong Zhen , Jia Zehuan , Zhao Wenting , Ding Yongxia , Wang Qian , Zhu Ruifang , Han Shifan
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite the well-grounded benefits of physical activity (PA), poor compliance with the PA guidelines has been reported among head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. Mobile health (mHealth)-based interventions can help cancer survivors increase their PA levels and increase the reach or efficiency of rehabilitation services. However, there is limited knowledge about the needs and perceptions of HNC patients regarding these interventions. This study explored the perceptions and needs of HNC patients regarding mHealth-based PA programs before developing such interventions to ensure their improved effectiveness.

Study design

A constructivist qualitative study.

Methods

We purposively selected 17 adult HNC patients aged 40–80 years to determine their needs and perceptions of future mHealth-based PA programs. Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed via thematic analysis. The report followed the Consolidated Criteria for Qualitative Research Reports guidelines.

Results

Four themes were analyzed from the interview transcripts regarding the needs and perceptions of mHealth-based PA programs: (1) functionality needs; (2) system usage requirements; (3) social support; and (4) perceived barriers and facilitators. HNC patients expect highly customized and specialized mHealth interventions that consider individual factors, address their concerns about security, network, and cost, and prefer improved comfort. Moreover, they expect to receive support from their healthcare providers, families, and peers.

Conclusion

The study provides pragmatic ready-to-use recommendations to design interventions for inactive HNC patients to achieve the recommended PA levels. Future mHealth interventions should be tailored according to the needs of the HNC patients by utilizing perceived facilitators and removing perceived barriers to help them engage in PA actively.
The positive effects of positive coping on mental health in college students during the COVID-19 campus lockdown
Authors: Li Meiqi , Chen Lijun
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Isolation has been an effective method to control the spread of COVID-19 over the past 3 years. However, lifestyle changes may have a negative impact on mental health. To examine the effects of positive coping on mental health in college students during the COVID-19 campus lockdown, this study conducted an online cross-sectional survey.

Methods

In October 2022, following a prolonged campus lockdown of nearly 3 years, 313 university students from a university in Shandong Province, China, were invited to complete an online questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised a self-administered general situation questionnaire, the Simple Coping Style Scale, and the Hospital Depression and Anxiety Scale.

Results

(1) The analysis of variance revealed a significant main effect of coping Style on depression [F(4,300) = 2.446, p = 0.047] during the COVID-19 campus lockdown. A post-hoc test indicated that college students who engaged in study (p = 0.012) or sports (p = 0.027) during their free time had significantly lower depression scores than those who used the Internet. (2) Independent sample t-tests showed significant differences in positive and negative coping styles among college students in terms of depression (t = 6.891, p < 0.001) and anxiety scores (t = 7.745, p < 0.001). (3) Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated a negative correlation between positive coping style and anxiety (r = −0.378, p < 0.001), and between positive coping style and depression (r = 0.427, p < 0.001). Positive correlations were also found between the negative coping style and anxiety (r = 0.155, p = 0.007), and between the negative coping style and depression (r = 0.190, p < 0.001).

Discussion

The study suggested that fostering positive coping in students can mitigate mental health issues during crises, providing a blueprint for university mental health initiatives during epidemics.
Screening of hepatitis B and C viral infection, recognition of risk factors, and immunization of patients against hepatitis B virus: a module developed for effective hepatitis control
Authors: Ejaz Samina , Abdullah Iqra , Malik Waqas Nazir , Anjum Shazia , Ashraf Muhammad , Akhtar Naveed , Khan Aurangzeb , Hameed Yasir , Usman Muhammad , Cheema Usman , Sidiq Safeena
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The continually increasing incidence of hepatitis, a worldwide health issue, in Pakistan, has highlighted the need to investigate the epidemiology factors and implement preventive measures accordingly. The purpose of this study was to scrutinize the prevalent and significantly associated risk factors of hepatitis in students and employees, screening them for hepatitis B and C virus and vaccinating them against HBV to make IUB hepatitis free.

Methodology

A total of 12,912 participants including students (n = 10,948) and employees (n = 1964) were screened for HBV and HCV via immunochromatographic test. Hepatitis- positive participants’ blood samples were further tested and viral load was estimated by quantitative PCR. All the hepatitis-negative participants were vaccinated against HBV. The demographic and risk factors-related data were collected using the questionnaire. Statistical analysis (Chi-square test and bivariate regression analysis) was performed using SPSS software to explore any association between risk factors and hepatitis.

Results

Results indicated that 662/12912 participants (students = 478/10,948, employees = 184/1,964) tested positive for hepatitis. Among them, HCV was observed to be more prevalent than HBV among the study participants, employees, and students, and viral count was low in both HBV and HCV-infected participants. However, men were more affected than women. The studied risk factors represented higher frequency among hepatitis-positive participants relative to the hepatitis-negative participants. The Chi-square test revealed that students’ gender, history of hepatitis in the family and relatives, dental treatment, sharing cosmetics and shaving blades were significant (p > 0.005) risk factors of hepatitis while in the employees group surgery and age were significant. Moreover, the reused of syringes was found to be associated with hepatitis in both groups. The bivariate analysis helped to identify various new risk factors which were independently, either positively or negatively, associated with hepatitis.

Discussion

Our study enabled us to recognize different risk factors of hepatitis among the target population. The information thus generated can be usefully applied in planning hepatitis awareness, targeted screening, and effective control programs for other target populations. In general, this module can be further utilized for any other disease.
On the diversity of ideas in academic spaces
Authors: Galea Sandro
Published: November 2023

Universities and other academic spaces are social institutions that exist primarily for ideas—to generate, curate, and transmit ideas to students and to the world. Academic spaces cannot carry out that function without supporting a diversity of perspectives. At the same time, universities must reckon—as must all social institutions—with changing norms around how to engage with ideas that challenge, provoke, even anger members of the communities dedicated to their discussion. It is on these institutions to listen to and learn from these ideas, consistent with their core function, while engaging pragmatically with the challenges and controversies that can arise whenever ideas are regularly and freely aired. While there should indeed be limits to the range of tolerable expression within universities, the imposition of these limits should happen rarely, with caution and humility. It is important that academic institutions recognize that while contemporary preoccupations that influence our engagement with speech may change, the secret to universities’ durability over the centuries is that our core purpose—the generation and exploration of ideas—does, and should, not. This inherent value for societies is worth preserving, even, and particularly, in the face of societal pressure and change.
High-throughput screening of natural compounds for prophage induction in controlling pathogenic bacteria in food
Authors: Tompkins Elizabeth , Cadieux Brigitte , Amitrano Margot , Goodridge Lawrence
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The clean label trend emphasizes the need for natural approaches to combat pathogenic bacteria in food. This study explores the potential of inducing prophages within bacterial genomes as a novel strategy to control pathogenic and spoilage bacterial growth.

Methods: A luminescence-based high-throughput assay was developed to identify natural compounds capable of inducing prophages. Bioactive compounds from four chemical libraries were screened at a final concentration of 10 µM. The assay measured luminescence production in Escherichia coli BR513, a genetically modified strain producing β-galactosidase upon prophage λ induction. Luminescence values were normalized to cell concentration (OD600) and the interquartile mean of each 384-well plate. A cut-off for normalized luminescence values, set at 2.25 standard deviations above the mean, defined positive prophage induction.

Results: Four naturally-derived compounds (osthol, roccellic acid, galanginee, and sclareol) exhibited positive prophage induction, along with previously identified inducers, rosemary, and gallic acid. Dose-response experiments were conducted to determine optimal concentrations for prophage induction. However, the results could not distinguish between prophage-induced cell death and other mechanisms, making it challenging to identify ideal concentrations.

Discussion: The high-throughput luminescent prophage induction assay serves as a valuable tool for the initial screening of natural bioactive compounds that have the potential to enhance food safety and quality by inducing prophages. Further research is required to understand the mechanism of bacterial cell death and to establish optimal concentrations for prophage induction in a food preservation context.
Analyzing public sentiments on the Cullen Commission inquiry into money laundering: harnessing deep learning in the AI of Things Era
Authors: Lokanan Mark
Published: November 2023

This study employs deep learning methodologies to conduct sentiment analysis of tweets related to the Cullen Commission’s inquiry into money laundering in British Columbia. The investigation utilizes CNN, RNN + LSTM, GloVe, and BERT algorithms to analyze sentiment and predict sentiment classes in public reactions when the Commission was announced and after the final report’s release. Results reveal that the emotional class “joy” predominated initially, reflecting a positive response to the inquiry, while “sadness” and “anger” dominated after the report, indicating public dissatisfaction with the findings. The algorithms consistently predicted negative, neutral, and positive sentiments, with BERT showing exceptional precision, recall, and F1-scores. However, GloVe displayed weaker and less consistent performance. Criticisms of the Commission’s efforts relate to its inability to expose the full extent of money laundering, potentially influenced by biased testimonies and a narrow investigation scope. The public’s sentiments highlight the awareness raised by the Commission and underscore the importance of its recommendations in combating money laundering. Future research should consider broader stakeholder perspectives and objective assessments of the findings.
Bounds for Haralick features in synthetic images with sinusoidal gradients
Authors: Oprisan Ana , Oprisan Sorinel Adrian
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) reduces the dimension of an image to a square matrix determined by the number of gray-level intensities present in that image. Since GLCM only measures the co-occurrence frequency of pairs of gray levels at a given distance from each other, it also stores information regarding the gradients of gray-level intensities in the original image.

Methods: The GLCM is a second-order statical method of encoding image information and dimensionality reduction. Image features are scalars that reduce GLCM dimensionality and allow fast texture classification. We used Haralick features to extract information regarding image gradients based on the GLCM.

Results: We demonstrate that a gradient of k gray levels per pixel in an image generates GLCM entries on the kth parallel line to the main diagonal. We find that, for synthetic sinusoidal periodic gradients with different wavelengths, the number of gray levels due to intensity quantization follows a power law that also transpires in some Haralick features. We estimate bounds for four of the most often used Haralick features: energy, contrast, correlation, and entropy. We find good agreement between our analytically predicted values of Haralick features and the numerical results from synthetic images of sinusoidal periodic gradients.

Discussion: This study opens the possibility of deriving bounds for Haralick features for targeted textures and provides a better selection mechanism for optimal features in texture analysis applications.
The Many Impacts Human Activities Have in Antarctica
Authors: Arata Javier A.
Published: November 2023

Although Antarctica is the most remote continent in the world, humans have had an impact there ever since the early 1800s. The first explorers were hunting seals and whales, which had decreased in number elsewhere. It was not long before seal and whale populations in Antarctica also suffered. To protect the continent and the surrounding Southern Ocean, several international agreements were signed and implemented. Despite this protection, Antarctica is under new pressures due to the growing numbers of visitors and the effects of climate change. In this article, I will describe new evidence showing how human activities are affecting Antarctica and I will also highlight some of the challenges faced in trying to protect this remote and fascinating continent.
Psychometric properties of the Curiosity and Exploration Inventory-II among Kenyan adolescents
Authors: Johnson Natalie E. , Nerima Daisy , Kahura Ngina , Osborn Tom L.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Curiosity is a fundamental trait that drives exploration, motivation, learning, and growth. However, research on this character strength in sub-Saharan African populations is very scarce. To address this gap in the literature, we sought to determine the psychometric properties of the Curiosity and Exploration Inventory- II (CEI-II), a measure for trait curiosity, to provide evidence of validity for its use in research among populations in sub-Saharan Africa. We also aimed to assess for demographic and psychosocial correlates of curiosity among Kenyan high school students.

Methods

A sample of 375 participants in Kenya completed the CEI-II, as well as demographic information on sex, age, form in school, psychosocial measures of depression, anxiety, school climate, and social support. Using cross-sectional data, parallel analysis, scree plot, and structural equation modeling were used to determine the factor structure of the CEI-II among the Kenyan adolescent population.

Results

A one-factor solution was found to be the best fitting model, differing from the two-factor structure found in the original development of the measure. Internal consistency, convergent and discriminant validity, and predictors of trait curiosity were also examined. The CEI-II demonstrated good internal consistency and convergent validity with social support from family, friends, significant others, and school climate. Discriminant validity was demonstrated by the non-significant correlation between curiosity and depression. A hierarchical regression model showed that curiosity was significantly predicted by social support from family, significant others, school climate, and anxiety, with males being more curious than females.

Discussion

The CEI-II is a valid measurement tool to capture trait curiosity in Kenyan adolescents, and our findings provide insight into the relationship between curiosity and other psychosocial factors in this population.
Hydrogen-rich water treatment improves fresh-cut Gastrodia elata quality by regulating reactive oxygen species metabolism and energy metabolism during low temperature storage
Authors: Dong Boyu , Zhu Dequan , Yao Qiuping , Da Fangfang , Chen Yulong , Ding Xiaochun
Published: November 2023

The application of hydrogen-rich water (HRW) can extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. This study aims to investigate the effects of HRW on the quality of fresh-cut Gastrodia elata during low-temperature (4°C) storage. The results indicate that HRW treatment inhibited the decrease in weight loss and the increase in respiration rate, and also slowed down the decrease in total acidity and total soluble solids. HRW treatment could reduce the generation of superoxide anions and hydrogen peroxide, enhance the activity and expression of antioxidant-related enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione reductase, monodehydroascorbate reductase, and dehydroascorbate reductase, and increase the content of non-enzymatic antioxidant substances, ascorbic acid and glutathione, while decreasing the activity and expression of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase. Furthermore, HRW treatment not only inhibited the reduction in ADP and ATP content and energy charge but also attenuated the increase in AMP content. It also slowed down the decrease in the activities of H+-ATPase, succinate dehydrogenase, Ca2+-ATPase, and cytochrome C oxidase. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that HRW treatment enhances the energy levels and effectively mitigates oxidative damage, thereby preserving postharvest quality of fresh-cut G. elata.
Application of the Nagoya Protocol to veterinary pathogens: concerns for the control of foot-and-mouth disease
Authors: Horsington Jacquelyn , Abbeloos Elke , Kassimi Labib Bakkali , Boonsuya Seeyo Kingkarn , Capozzo Alejandra V. , Chepkwony Eunice , Eblé Phaedra , Galdo-Novo Sabrina , Gizaw Daniel , Gouverneur Lizelle , Grazioli Santina , Heath Livio , Hudelet Pascal , Hyera Joseph M. K. , Ilott Martin , King Alasdair , Lefebvre David J. , Mackay David , Metwally Samia , Mwiine Frank N. , Nfon Charles K. , Park Min-Kyung , Pituco Edviges Maristela , Rosso Fabrizio , Simon Francisco , Ularamu Hussaini G. , Vermeij Paul , Vosloo Wilna , King Donald P.
Published: November 2023

The Nagoya Protocol is an international agreement adopted in 2010 (and entered into force in 2014) which governs access to genetic resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from their utilisation. The agreement aims to prevent misappropriation of genetic resources and, through benefit sharing, create incentives for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity. While the equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilisation of genetic resources is a widely accepted concept, the way in which the provisions of the Nagoya Protocol are currently being implemented through national access and benefit-sharing legislation places significant logistical challenges on the control of transboundary livestock diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). Delays to access FMD virus isolates from the field disrupt the production of new FMD vaccines and other tailored tools for research, surveillance and outbreak control. These concerns were raised within the FMD Reference Laboratory Network and were explored at a recent multistakeholder meeting hosted by the European Commission for the Control of FMD. The aim of this paper is to promote wider awareness of the Nagoya Protocol, and to highlight its impacts on the regular exchange and utilisation of biological materials collected from clinical cases which underpin FMD research activities, and work to develop new epidemiologically relevant vaccines and other diagnostic tools to control the disease.
Development of a flow cytometric panel to assess prognostic biomarkers in fine needle aspirates of canine cutaneous or subcutaneous mast cell tumors
Authors: Wu BinXi , Lejeune Amandine , Affolter Verena K. , Iamone Giulia , Riondato Fulvio , Kol Amir
Published: November 2023

Mast cell tumor (MCT) is a common skin cancer in dogs that has a wide range of clinical behaviors. The purpose of this study was to develop a novel multicolor flow cytometry (FC) panel that will enable the quantification of candidate prognostic markers (Ki-67 and pKIT) in fine needle aspirate (FNA) samples prior to surgical removal of the tumors. FNA of canine MCTs and the NI-1 cell line were utilized to develop a FC panel that includes a viability dye (FVS620, BD Biosciences; 7-AAD, Invitrogen) and the following primary conjugated antibodies: CD117-PE (ACK45, BD Biosciences), pKIT-A647 (polyclonal bs-3242R, BIOSS) and Ki-67-FITC (20Raj1, eBioscience; MIB-1, DAKO). A total of nine FNA samples of canine MCTs were collected, seven out which produced sufficient cells for FC analysis. The Ki-67 antibody clone 20Raj1 produced a positive signal when applied to blood leukocytes but failed to provide robust labeling of neoplastic mast cells. The Ki-67 antibody clone MIB-1 delivered a superior staining quality in both the NI-1 cells and primary MCT cells. CD117-PE signal was adequate post fixation and permeabilization and in the combination of 7-AAD. pKIT produced non-specific staining and was not suitable for this multicolor FC panel. In conclusion, FNA samples of canine MCTs can often yield adequate cell numbers for FC analysis, and a multicolor FC panel was developed that can detect Ki-67 in canine mast cells. This would permit further studies into the potential use of this panel for canine cutaneous and subcutaneous MCT prognostication purposes.
Overburden in Caregivers of Chronically Ill Adolescents: A Comparative Study between Pulmonological and Endocrinological Diseases
Authors: García-Marín Elvira , Valero-Moreno Selene , Schoeps Konstanze , Postigo-Zegarra Silvia , Pérez-Marín Marián
Published: November 2023

Chronic pediatric disease has a major impact on the life of a child and his or her family. In this sense, the figure of the main caregiver is relevant, who may present adjustment difficulties before the disease, accompanied by high levels of stress and emotional discomfort, which interfere with the adolescent’s adjustment before the new situation. The aim of this research was to carry out a comparative study among caregivers of adolescents with various diseases, analyzing the risk and protective factors for the stress presented by this population. For this purpose, a sample of 406 main caregivers of adolescents with an endocrinological or pneumological disease from different hospitals in Valencia was used, where characteristics related to the disease, attachment, type of family, and emotional distress of these caregivers were considered. In general, the results show higher levels of stress in caregivers of adolescents with an endocrinological disease, specifically DM1, and found significant predictors of anxiety-depressive symptomatology, the need for approval, and several variables related to the disease. These data reveal the importance of providing comprehensive care to the family system, offering health skills to overcome diseases, and reinforcing the protective factors offered by the family system.
Impact of a Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Tumor Board on Treatment and Survival in Laryngeal Carcinoma
Authors: El-Shabrawi Katharina , Burkhardt Valentin , Becker Christoph
Published: November 2023

Background: Pretherapeutic discussion in the head and neck tumor board (HNT) has been mandatory at the University Medical Center Freiburg since 01/2015, and it is intended to contribute to a survival benefit through interdisciplinary decision making. Prior to 2015, an optional HNT existed in which mainly advanced tumor stages were discussed. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a pretherapeutic HNT on treatment and survival in laryngeal cancer. Methods: A retrospective data analysis of 412 laryngeal carcinoma patients treated at the Head and Neck Cancer Center of the University Medical Center Freiburg between 01/2010 and 12/2020 was conducted. Differences regarding TNM status, UICC classification, tumor localization, gender and age at initial diagnosis, recurrence, secondary tumors, therapy, 5-year survival, and 5-year recurrence-free survival (5YSR/5Y-RFS) were assessed for therapy initiation with or without a pretherapeutic HNT. Results: In total, 314 patients underwent a pretherapeutic HNT, and 98 received therapy initiation without an HNT. The HNT group showed significantly more advanced T stages and UICC classifications (p < 0.001; p = 0.003) and more frequent primary chemo/radiotherapy (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference regarding 5YSR (43 vs. 47 months, p = 0.96) or 5Y-RFS (48 vs. 52 months, p = 0.16). The time between initial diagnosis and therapy initiation was significantly longer when an HNT was performed (38 vs. 20 days, p = 0.008). Conclusions: The HNT group showed significantly more advanced tumor stages, suggesting that even before it became mandatory, it was frequently used for interdisciplinary case discussion in more complex cases. Due to the small number of T3/4 patients in the non-HNT group, a survival advantage of an HNT cannot be validly demonstrated in our study. However, the HNT led to broader patient counselling regarding their therapy options. At the same time, a significant delay in therapy initiation could be seen, suggesting that workflows between diagnosis, HNT presentation, and therapy initiation should be optimized.
Boosting Photovoltaic Efficiency in Double Quantum Well Intermediate Band-Solar Cells through Impurity Positioning
Authors: Obispo Angel E. , Zuñiga Vargas Cristofher , Algoner William C.
Published: November 2023

The photovoltaic conversion efficiency of a single-intermediate band solar cell that incorporates a double quantum well structure consisting of GaAs/InAs/GaAs/InAs/GaAs embedded in the intrinsic region of conventional p-i-n structure is analyzed. The width of the intermediate band and the solutions for the two lowest energy states has been determined by solving the two-impurities-related Schrodinger equation based on the Numerov method. The position of these impurities determines three distinct cases: the system in the absence of impurities (Case 1), impurities at the center of GaAs quantum barriers (Case 2), and impurities at the center of InAs quantum wells (Case 3). The photovoltaic conversion efficiency has been calculated as a function of the widths L y H of the quantum well structures. The obtained results indicate an improvement in efficiency under the specific conditions of these parameters.
PbLi/Water Reaction: Experimental Campaign and Modeling Advancements in WPBB EUROfusion Project
Authors: Eboli Marica , Arena Pietro , Badodi Nicolò , Cammi Antonio , Ciurluini Cristiano , Cossu Vittorio , Forgione Nicola , Galleni Francesco , Giannetti Fabio , Gonfiotti Bruno , Martelli Daniele , Melchiorri Lorenzo , Risi Carmine , Tassone Alessandro , Del Nevo Alessandro
Published: November 2023

The Water-Cooled Lithium–Lead blanket concept is a candidate breeding blanket concept for the EU DEMO reactor and it is going to be tested as one of the Test Blanket Modules (TBM) inside the ITER reactor. A major safety issue for its design is the interaction between PbLi and water caused by a tube rupture in the breeding zone, the so-called in-box LOCA (Loss of Coolant Accident) scenario. This issue has been investigated in the framework of FP8 EUROfusion Project Horizon 2020 and is currently ongoing in FP9 EUROfusion Horizon Europe, defining a strategy for addressing and solving WCLL in-box LOCA. This paper discusses the efforts pursued in recent years to deal with this key safety issue, providing a general view of the approach, a timeline, research and development, and experimental activities. These are conducted to master dominant phenomena and processes relevant to safety aspects during the postulated accident, to enhance the predictive capability and reliability of selected numerical tools, and to validate and qualify models and codes and the procedures for their applications, including coupling and chains of codes.
A Machine Learning Approach for Investment Analysis in Renewable Energy Sources: A Case Study in Photovoltaic Farms
Authors: Ioannou Konstantinos , Karasmanaki Evangelia , Sfiri Despoina , Galatsidas Spyridon , Tsantopoulos Georgios
Published: November 2023

Farmland offers excellent conditions for developing solar energy while farmers seem to appreciate its notable revenues. The increasing adoption of photovoltaics (PVs) on farmland raises various concerns with the most important being the loss of productive farmland and the increased farmland prices, which may prevent young farmers from entering the farming occupation. The latter can threaten the future of agriculture in countries that are already facing the problem of rural population ageing. The aim of this paper is to examine the effect of crop type on farmers’ willingness to install photovoltaics on their farmland. To that end, this study applies four machine learning (ML) algorithms (categorical regression, decision trees and random forests, support vector machines) on a dataset obtained from a questionnaire survey on farmers in a Greek agricultural area. The results from the application of the algorithms allowed us to quantify and relate farmers’ willingness to invest in PVs with three major crop types (cotton, wheat, sunflower) which play a very important role in food security. Results also provide support for making policy interventions by defining the rate of productive farmland for photovoltaics and also for designing policies to support farmers to start and maintain farming operations.
Universal Form of Radial Hydraulic Machinery Four-Quadrant Equations for Calculation of Transient Processes
Authors: Giljen Zdravko , Nedeljković Miloš
Published: November 2023

Suter curves for the Wh and Wm characteristics and four-quadrant (4Q) diagrams of 11 radial pump–turbine models with different specific speeds (nq = 24.34, 24.8, 27, 28.6, 38, 41.6, 41.9, 43.83, 50, 56, and 64.04) are presented for the first time in this paper, as well as Suter curves for two pump models (nq = 25 and 41.8) previously published in the literature. All of these curves were analyzed to establish a certain universal law of behavior, depending on the specific speed. To determine such a law, a fitting procedure using regression and spline methods was carried out. This paper provides details of a research plan and structures (including data collection for four-quadrant diagrams for pump–turbine and pump models under different specific speeds nq), a procedure for re-calculating four-quadrant diagrams of the models as Suter curves for the Wh and Wm characteristics, definitions of the optimal points for pump and turbine operating modes in pump–turbine models under different specific speeds, and the development of numerical models in MATLAB to obtain a universal equation for the Wh and Wm characteristics. The scientific contribution of this paper is that it is the first to publish original mathematical curves using universal equations for the Wh and Wm characteristics of radial pumps and pump–turbines. The applicability of the equations is demonstrated by considering a pumping station in which two radial pumps were installed, for which the calculation of transient processes was performed using a numerical model developed in MATLAB by the authors. The transition process results are compared for two cases: first, when input data in the numerical model are used with the values of the Suter curves for the Wh and Wm characteristics obtained by re-calculating the four-quadrant operating characteristics (Q11, n11, M11) at a given specific speed, and second, when the values of the Suter curves for the Wh and Wm characteristics are obtained from the universal equations.
Ignition Delay and Burning Rate Analysis of Diesel–Carbon Nanotube Blends Stabilized by a Surfactant: A Droplet-Scale Study
Authors: Gallego Anderson , Cacua Karen , Gamboa David , Rentería Jorge , Herrera Bernardo
Published: November 2023

In this study, the effects of pristine carbon nanotubes (CNTs), sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS), and diesel blends on the ignition delay and burning rate are examined experimentally. For this purpose, single-droplet combustion tests were conducted in a combustion system for 21 days using CNTs at concentrations of 50 ppm and 100 ppm, which were dispersed in Colombian commercial diesel and stabilized by SDBS. Videos of the diesel droplet burning were obtained using a high-speed camera, and the Shadowgraph optical technique was used to observe the development of the droplet size during combustion. Thus, records of the process were collected, and the treatment was carried out using a MATLAB algorithm. The measurements and processing were carried out along with a stability study, which included measurements of dynamic light scattering (DLS), pH, potential Zeta, and properties such as thermal conductivity and surface tension. The results demonstrated that the temporal stability has a direct impact on the single-droplet combustion tests because a concentration of CNTs of 100 ppm showed a higher stability than those achieved by 50 ppm. Consequently, improvements were found with a concentration of 100 ppm—for instance, the thermal conductivity increased by about 20%, the ignition delay time increased by 16.2%, and the burning rate increased by 30.5%.
Empowering Low-Income Communities with Sustainable Decentralized Renewable Energy-Based Mini-Grids
Authors: Nyarko Kofi , Whale Jonathan , Urmee Tania
Published: November 2023

With less than seven years before the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals deadline, the race is on to achieve universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services in low-income communities in developing countries. These communities are mostly distant from central grids and economically suitable for off-grid mini-grid systems. Data suggest that these mini-grids are not sustained and often fail after a few years of operation. The authors investigated the challenges of an existing mini-grid system in Ghana and proposed measures to overcome them. Field surveys with expert stakeholders and users of the system were conducted to examine the challenges. The results showed that 98% of the residents use power for domestic purposes. The inability to pay for the power consumed was the highest-ranked challenge the users faced followed by power quality issues. From the expert stakeholders’ perspectives, economic challenges were the most significant barriers with a mean score range of 3.92 to 4.73 on a 1–5 Likert scale, followed by political challenges. The researchers propose that implementers must optimize non-hardware costs and promote local component manufacturing to address these economic challenges. In addition, we suggest that the government review the government-driven policy and involve the private sector.
Proteomic Analysis of the Effect of CaCl2 and Sodium Citrate on Gentamicin Biosynthesis of Micromonospora echinospora SIPI-GM.01
Authors: Yang Ping , Lin Huimin , Wu Xiaowei , Yin Yu , Li Ji’an , Chen Daijie
Published: November 2023

The clinical antibiotic gentamicin is a mixture of several difficult-to-separate components, the minor group of which is gentamicin C1a, a precursor for the synthesis of the high-efficacy and low-toxicity antibiotic etimicin. This study aimed to achieve the high production of gentamicin as well as gentamicin C1a. In this study, the influence of organic and inorganic salts on the gentamicin production was screened and label-free proteomics was used to determine the mechanisms responsible for the effects. In 25 L fermentation experiments, the addition of 0.1% CaCl2 and 0.3% sodium citrate increased gentamicin titers by 11.5% (2398 μg/mL vs. 2150 μg/mL), while the C1a ratio increased from 38% to 42%. The results showed that CaCl2 downregulated the synthesis and metabolism of the tetrapyrrole pathway and the GenK protein (0.08-fold) in the gentamicin synthesis pathway, whereas sodium citrate downregulated key proteins in the glycosylation pathway and tricarboxylic acid pathway. Thus, CaCl2 caused changes in methylation during the synthesis of gentamicin, increasing the proportion of gentamicin C1a. In contrast, sodium citrate inhibited primary metabolism to promote the production of secondary metabolites of gentamicin. This study provided a basis for the co-production of gentamicin C1a mono-component and gentamicin multicomponent.
Effect of Climatic Variations in the Floral Phenology of Berberis microphylla and Its Pollinator Insects
Authors: Radice Silvia , Giordani Edgardo , Arena Miriam E.
Published: November 2023

Berberis microphylla (calafate) is an evergreen shrub that grows spontaneously in the Argentinean and Chilean Patagonia with a very harsh climate. This Sub-Antarctic zone is affected by the “El Niño” and “La Niña” pattern, which is measured using the Oceanic Niño Index (ONI). The objective of this study was to analyze the floral phenology and its pollinator insects, in relation to the climatic conditions observed. This work was developed in Ushuaia (Argentina) during 2010, 2014, 2015, and 2016. Significant differences were observed for the development of flower bud and floral phenology between the four years studied. On 26 October, between 84 and 100% of flower buds was recorded in the shrubs tested during the years 2010, 2014, and 2015 and then decreased abruptly in 2010 and more slowly in 2014 and 2015. However, in 2016 on the same date, it was recorded 70% of button flowers increasing to 90% on 5 November and then slowly evolving towards the anthesis phase. On the other hand, the anthesis phase was developed rapidly for 2010 and 2015 and slower for 2014 and 2016. A peak in anthesis occurred on 2 November in 2010, while in the other years, it was observed later in 16 November. The hoverflies of the genus Carposcalis and Allograpta, both insects verified to be responsible for the pollination of calafate, were registered between 2014 and 2016. Carposcalis was significantly more present in 2014, while in 2015 and 2016, Allograpta was predominant. The insect activity was also related with the climatic conditions, i.e., air temperature, air relative humidity, wind speed, and gust of wind along the day during the anthesis phase, and which also modified its life cycle. So, it was observed in 2016, the year with winter temperatures higher than normal, that adult hoverflies ended their hibernation period earlier and began to lay eggs on the juvenile calafate sprouts; hence, the emerging larvae ate the pollen grain of button flowers, causing a decrease in future fruits harvested. The results presented show that the “La Niña” and “El Niño” effects in these latitudes are the opposite of those expected. Spring 2016 developed under a strong “La Niña” effect, as occurred in 2010 with temperatures warmer than in 2014 and 2015, where both years developed under the “El Niño” effect. This study showed how climatic conditions can modify the floral phenology of B. microphylla and its pollinator insect frequency, their activity, and their life cycle.
Immunolocalization of Sphingolipid Catabolism Enzymes along the Nephron: Novel Early Urinary Biomarkers of Renal Damage
Authors: Franco Martha , Cano-Martínez Agustina , Ramos-Godínez María del Pilar , López-Marure Rebeca , Donis-Maturano Luis , Sosa José Santamaría , Bautista-Pérez Rocio
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate whether the activity of enzymes involved in sphingolipid catabolism could be biomarkers to predict early renal damage in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats and Angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced hypertension rats. Diabetic and hypertensive rats had no changes in plasma creatinine concentration. However, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis showed slight ultrastructural changes in the glomeruli and tubular epithelial cells from diabetic and hypertensive rats. Our results show that the acid sphingomyelinase (aSMase) and neutral sphingomyelinase (nSMase) activity increased in the urine of diabetic rats and decreased in hypertensive rats. Only neutral ceramidase (nCDase) activity increased in the urine of diabetic rats. Furthermore, the immunofluorescence demonstrated positive staining for the nSMase, nCDase, and sphingosine kinase (SphK1) in glomerular mesangial cells, proximal tubule, ascending thin limb of the loop of Henle, thick ascending limb of Henle’s loop, and principal cells of the collecting duct in the kidney. In conclusion, our results suggest that aSMase and nCDase activity in urine could be a novel predictor of early slight ultrastructural changes in the nephron, aSMase and nCDase as glomerular injury biomarkers, and nSMase as a tubular injury biomarker in diabetic and hypertensive rats.
X-ray and DNA Damage: Limitations of the Dose as a Parameter for In Vitro Studies
Authors: Udroiu Ion , Sgura Antonella
Published: November 2023

A century of studies has demonstrated that the magnitude of a radiation dose determines the extent of its biological effect. However, different types of radiation show different levels of effectiveness. Although all types of X-rays are usually considered to be equivalent, several authors have demonstrated an inverse relationship between photon energy and the biological effectiveness of the X-ray. Nonetheless, the differences among 50–100 keV X-rays are usually considered absent. However, comparing different types of X-rays with different energies is not easy since they are often used with different dose rates, and the latter can be a confounding factor. We compared the biological effectiveness of X-rays with different photon energies but with the same dose rate. Moreover, we also studied X-ray with different dose rates but the same photon energy. Biological effectiveness was assessed measuring DNA damage and cell survival. We confirmed that both the dose rate and photon energy influence the effectiveness of an X-ray. Moreover, we observed that differences in the 50–100 keV range are detectable after controlling for dose-rate variations. Our results, confirming those of previous studies in a more consistent way (and accompanied by hypotheses on the importance of the number of incident photons), underline the limitations of using the dose as the sole parameter for in vitro studies.