bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Release of Angiostrongylus cantonensis larvae from live intermediate hosts under stress stimuli
Authors: Šipková Anna , Anettová Lucia , Izquierdo-Rodriguez Elena , Velič Vivienne , Modrý David 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The metastrongyloid nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis is known to cause eosinophilic meningitis in a variety of homeothermic hosts including humans. Third-stage infectious larvae develop in gastropods as intermediate hosts. Humans are usually infected by intentional or incidental ingestion of an infected mollusc or paratenic host (poikilotherm vertebrates and invertebrates). The infection may also hypothetically occur through ingestion of food or water contaminated by third-stage larvae spontaneously released from gastropods. Larvae are thought to be released in greater numbers from the intermediate host exposed to stress stimuli. This study aimed to compare larval release from gastropods with and without stress stimuli. Experimentally infected Limax maximus and Lissachatina fulica were exposed to a stress stimulus (shaking on an orbital shaker). The mucus was collected before and after the stress and examined microscopically and by qPCR for the presence of A. cantonensis larvae and the DNA. In the case of L. maximus, no larvae were detected microscopically in the mucus, but qPCR analysis confirmed the presence of A. cantonensis DNA in all experimental replicates, without clear differences between stress and non-stress period. In contrast, individual larvae of A. cantonensis were found in mucus from Li. fulica after stress exposure which corresponds to an increased number of DNA-positive mucus samples after stress. Apparently, stress stimuli of intensity comparable to transport or snail handling stimulate larval release, especially from highly infected intermediate hosts. However, the small number of larvae released probably does not pose a significant risk of human infection.
Limitations in Speech Recognition for Young Adults with Down Syndrome
Authors: Cibrian Franceli L. , Chen Yingchen 'Yuki' , Anderson Kayla , Abrahamsson Cecilia Marie , Motti Vivian Genaro 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Speech recognition has the potential to make technology more accessible to users. However, the accuracy of speech recognition remains limited for users with disabilities, including those with Down Syndrome, and the types and frequencies of recognition errors are poorly understood. This paper characterizes these problems, focusing on errors occurring when recognizing Down Syndrome speech. We analyze the transcripts from six speech recognition algorithms (Google, IBM, Otter.ai, Microsoft, AssemblyAI, OpenAI) using the audio content of 15 individuals with Down Syndrome (331 dialogues; 3,428 words). Our analysis shows (1) significant difference in speech recognition accuracy for people with Down Syndrome compared to neurotypical users; (2) the best algorithm for recognizing Down Syndrome speech is OpenAI (Word Accuracy = 67\%; F1-score = 0.944), and (3) there is a prevalence of deletion errors followed by substitutions and insertions. These findings have implications for enhancing speech recognition for the next-generation voice assistants to meet the needs of users with Down Syndrome.
Three years Retrospective Analysis of Distribution and Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles of Isolates from Culture-positive Clinical Specimens at Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Erkihun Mulat , Assefa Ayenew , Legesse Biruk , Almaw Andargachew , Berhan Ayenew , Getie Birhanu , Kiros Teklehaimanot , Fentie Alemie , Solomon Yenealem , Damtie Shewaneh , Eyayu Tahir , Malkamu B /maskel , Sharew Bekele , Asmare Zelalem , Getie Molla , Enkobahry Aklesya , Ayele Bayu , Ashagrie Degu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
The main concerns affecting human health are infectious diseases. Bacterial infections comprise a large portion of infectious disorders. Infections acquired in health institutions are also among their sources of infections. The location of culture-positive specimens and the thorough profiles of antibiotic resistance for common pathogens were the subsequent focal points of the current investigation.
Methodology:
The bacterial isolates and antibiotic resistance of the bacterial pathogens extracted from the patient's biological samples were evaluated in this retrospective study (2020–2022). Biological specimens utilized for microbiological culture included blood, urine, genital, respiratory, soft tissue and body fluids, stool, urine, and Cerebro-spinal fluid. The diagnosis of microbiology was carried out using traditional culture techniques. In accordance with Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines, the Kirby-Bauer disk-diffusion method was employed for the antimicrobial susceptibility analysis. The data was extracted from WHONET and analyzed.
Result
In total, 2489 isolates were isolated from 2073 patient specimens in three consecutive years from different locations. According to this analysis, most of the isolates were from the neonatal intensive care unit 471 (18.9%) and pediatrics ward 397 (16%). Above half of isolates (63.2%) were from blood specimen. The predominant isolates were gram positive aerobic bacteria (1117, 44.9%). Secondly, predominant isolates were aerobic gram negative bacteria (1008, 40.5%). Among the ESKPAE pathogen frequencies, Klebsiella pneumonia, Staphylococcus aurous, Enterococcus species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii (391, 15.7%), (356, 14.3%), (300, 8.5%), (140, 5.6%), and (89, 3.6%) are the predominant ones, respectively. Beside antimicrobial activities about 100 Entrobactercae family member bacteria resisted for carbapenem drug groups and 320 isolates of this family were expected to be extended beta lactamase producer. Farther more about 120 Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates were also identified.
Conclusion
Among the isolates ESKAPE pathogens accounts the maximum proportion. The higher isolates were from neonatal intensive care unit. Significant amount of multi drug resistance, extreme drug resistance and pan drug resistance isolates found in the current study. The Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital has to identify the source of infection for their further preventive measures.
1 Effects of Phosphate-rock Mining Wastewater Fertigation on Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) Cultivation and Soil Microbial Diversity
Authors: Hammami Imran , Ferchichi Nouha , Toukebri Wael , M’sehli Wissal , Hammouda Thouraya Ben , Ajengui Arwa , Guiga Cyrine , Salhi Hanen , Hassen Rached Ben , Trabelsi Darine 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The conventional intensive use of chemical fertilizers poses significant threats to agro-ecosystem sustainability, leading to soil deterioration and environmental pollution. This study explores the potential of utilizing phosphate-rock mining wastewater (MWw) as a sustainable alternative for fertigation in chickpea cultivation. The investigation, conducted under both greenhouse and field conditions, evaluates the impact of raw and diluted MWw on chickpea growth, yield, and soil microbial diversity. In greenhouse experiments, chickpea plants subjected to MWw fertigation exhibited enhanced root and shoot growth, increased seed and pod production, and improved chlorophyll content. The inclusion of the Mesorhizobium mediterraneum strain "C11" further augmented these positive effects. Principal component analysis revealed a clear positive influence of MWw and inoculation on chickpea yield. Field trials conducted in a semi-arid region demonstrated that MWw fertigation significantly increased shoot dry weight, with variations observed between chickpea cultivars. Meta-genomic analysis of soil microbial communities indicated a substantial impact of fertigation on bacterial phyla composition, particularly an increase in Proteobacteria abundance. The induced and inhibited bacterial spectra highlighted the influence of MWw on specific bacterial families, including Rhodanobacteraceae and Dongiaceae. The MWw used in the study exhibited slightly alkaline pH and contained essential micronutrients. The study emphasizes the potential of MWw, combined with microbial inoculation, as a sustainable source of water and nutrients for chickpea cultivation. The positive effects on plant growth and soil microbial diversity suggest that MWw fertigation could contribute to more environmentally friendly agricultural practices. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into utilizing phosphate-rich wastewater for sustainable agriculture, particularly in regions facing water scarcity and environmental challenges.
Short-term hospitalisation of older patients in the Emergency Department and early readmission: A case- control study
Authors: Christensen Lasse , Kristensen Kasper , Madsen Mathias Hakon , Danielsen Mathias Brix , Lorenzen Liudmila , Andersen Stig , Jorgensen Martin Gronbech 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
This study sought to identify risk factors associated with early 30-day readmissions in older patients following short-term primary admission discharged from an Emergency Department (ED).
Methods
This was a case-control study, and the prescription database and hospital records were scrutinised for data on demography, marital status, disability, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), and systemic prescription drugs. Patients included were aged ≥ 70 years, had a primary hospitalisation of < 48 hours, discharged from the ED, and readmission within 30 days. Exclusion criteria were readmission for specialised treatment and multi-trauma. Data covered a 12-month period at Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark.
Results
Among 2,343 patients aged ≥ 70 years with short-term hospitalisation, 266 (11.4%) were readmitted within 30 days, and nearly half during the first week and one third with similar diagnosis. Fifty patients were excluded leading to comparison of 216 (9.2%) readmitted and 216 matched controls. Polypharmacy (≥ 8 drugs), CCI, disability and marital status differed markedly between patients with early readmission within 30 days. The odds ratio for early readmission was 4.3 (95%-CI: 1.4–17) for systemic prescription drugs ≥ 8; 2.0 (95%-CI: 1.3-3.0) for CCI ≥ 2; 1.8 (95%-CI: 1.1–2.8) for unwed status; 1.6 (95%-CI: 1.0-2.5) for disability.
Conclusion
Among older patients discharged from the ED within 48 hours, around 10% had an early readmission. Four factors were associated with the raised risk of early readmission, and one in three had similar diagnosis at discharge and readmission. These findings may guide the attending physician’s focus during primary admission to identify risk factors leading to early readmission.
Solar energy resource availability under extreme and historical wildfire smoke conditions
Authors: Corwin Kimberley , Burkhardt Jesse , Corr Chelsea , Stackhouse Paul , Munshi Amit , Fischer Emily 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

By 2050, the U.S. plans to increase solar energy from 3% to 45% of the nation’s electricity generation. Quantifying wildfire smoke’s impact on solar photovoltaic (PV) generation is essential to meet this goal, especially given previous studies documenting sizable PV output losses due to smoke. We quantify smoke-driven changes in baseline solar resource availability (i.e., amount of direct normal (DNI) and global horizontal (GHI) irradiance) at different spatial and temporal scales using radiative transfer model output and satellite-based smoke, aerosol, and cloud observations. State, regional, and national results show that DNI and GHI decrease as smoke frequency increases. DNI is more sensitive to smoke with sizable losses persisting downwind of fires. While large reductions in GHI–the main PV resource–are possible close to fires, mean GHI declines minimally (<5%) due to transported smoke. GHI remains a relatively stable resource across most of CONUS even in extreme fire seasons.
The relationship between staffing and adverse events in Washington State hospitals: a cross-sectional study using linked hospital data
Authors: Blair-Stahn Nathaniel D. , Woodward Kyla F. , Iribarren Sarah J. , Pletcher Alix , Hoge Natalie , Flaxman Abraham 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Objective: To quantify the relationship between staffing characteristics and patient outcomes in acute care hospitals in Washington state.
Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional time-series study of linked data from six sources on staffing and outcomes for Washington state hospitals. Key stakeholders provided input on data sources, measures, and outcomes in a four-phase participatory process. After data cleaning and linkage, we used a random effects Poisson regression model to examine the relationship between staffing levels or characteristics and adverse outcomes.
Results: The study included 263 hospital-years from 80 distinct hospitals, with 162 hospital-years from general acute care hospitals (n=46) and 101 hospital-years from critical access hospitals (n=34). In general acute care hospitals, a higher ratio of patients to care team staff is associated with a higher number of adverse events (adjusted RR, 1.36 per one SD increase; 95% UI 1.13–1.63), and a lower proportion of RNs on the care team staff is likely associated with a higher number of adverse events (adjusted RR, 1.16 per one SD increase; 95% UI, 0.97–1.39). In critical access hospitals, a lower proportion of RNs on the care team is associated with a higher number of adverse events (adjusted RR, 3.28 per one SD increase; 95% UI, 1.20–7.75). A counterfactual analysis indicated that if all general acute care hospitals had no more than the median staffing ratio of 1.2 patient hours per staff hour, the number of adverse events would be reduced by 10% (95% UI 2.7–16.8).
Conclusion: RN staffing is an indisputable component of safe, high quality patient care, and other factors such as availability of care team staff, hospital features, and patient characteristics also impact patient outcomes. This study highlights the utility of merging diverse data sources to provide a comprehensive analysis of the relationships between staffing and patient outcomes.
Dynamic 8 Bit Xor Algorithm With Aes Crypto Algorithm for Image Steganography
Authors: MADHU D , VASUHI S , SAMYDURAI A. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The expansion of the Internet's infrastructure has brought images to the forefront of multimedia content, leading to the use of image steganography as a means of hiding confidential data. This research proposes a novel method that combines the dynamic 8-bit XOR algorithm and the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) crypto algorithm to enhance the security and robustness of image steganography. The proposed algorithm encrypts the message using AES and conceals it within the image using the dynamic XOR algorithm. The performance of the method is evaluated based on various objectives, including the impact of secret message size and stego image saving size. Histogram analysis is conducted to assess the pixel value distribution and frequency in the original and stego images. The results demonstrate minimal differences between the histograms, indicating the difficulty in detecting hidden information. Performance evaluation metrics such as Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR), Mean Square Error (MSE), Normalized Pixel Change Rate (NPCR), and entropy are utilized to quantify the algorithm's performance. The impact of the secret message size is investigated, showing a trade-off between text size and PSNR performance. Increasing the secret message size leads to a decrease in PSNR and an increase in MSE. NPCR analysis reveals that a smaller secret message size results in a higher NPCR value, indicating stronger concealment capabilities. Entropy analysis demonstrates a remarkable proximity to the ideal entropy value. Furthermore, the impact of stego image saving size is evaluated. Results show that higher stego image dimensions result in higher PSNR values, indicating better image quality. Entropy values remain close to the ideal level for different stego image sizes. NPCR values decrease with larger stego image dimensions, indicating reduced concealment capabilities. Overall, the proposed method offers a comprehensive assessment of its capabilities as a reliable image steganography technique. The combination of encryption and dynamic XOR algorithm enhances security and robustness. The evaluation metrics provide objective measures to assess the quality, security, and efficiency of the algorithm. The research contributes to the field of image steganography and highlights the potential for real-world applications.
Approximate auto-clustering after bringing down the dimensionality.
Authors: M Tejas , J Treshika , N Nandan , B Dinesh Rao , Malli Sathyendranath 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In the era of escalating data generation, particularly in sectors like healthcare, the abundance of diverse datasets poses a formidable challenge for effective analysis. Clustering has emerged as a crucial tool in this landscape, grouping data into clusters with shared characteristics. Our paper introduces an innovative approach to efficiently tackle the K-Means problem for large datasets. Leveraging Principle Component Analysis (PCA) for dimensionality reduction, the data is transformed, and the K-Means algorithm is applied in this reduced dimensionality, showcasing significant computational advantages over the traditional approach. This approach seamlessly integrates automated K-Means clustering into the dimension-reduction strategy, augmenting the accuracy and scalability of clustering. By iteratively grouping data points based on their similarity, K-Means captures complex relationships between points, offering enhanced accuracy for datasets with intricate structures. The study emphasizes result comparison through average inter and intra-cluster distances, revealing consistent optimal cluster numbers, reinforcing the efficacy of our approach in achieving auto-clustering with K-Means and reducing computational time. In the clustering domain, our research presents a practical solution for large datasets, showcasing the adaptability of the K-Means algorithm with auto-clustering through PCA. Rigorous comparative analysis establishes its effectiveness for consistent clustering results, positioning it as a potent tool for data analysis in domains grappling with substantial data generation challenges.
New insights into the immunomodulatory potential of sialic acid on monocyte-derived dendritic cells
Authors: Silva Zélia , Rabaça João Amorim , Luz Vanessa , Lourenço Rita Adubeiro , Salio Mariolina , Oliveira Alexandra Couto , Bule Pedro , Springer Sebastian , Videira Paula A 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Sialic acids at the cell surface of dendritic cells (DCs) play an important immunomodulatory role, and their manipulation enhances DC maturation, leading to heightened T cell activation. Particularly, at the molecular level, the increased stability of surface MHC-I molecules in monocyte-derived DCs (MoDC) underpins an improved DC: T cell interaction. In this study, we focused on the impact of sialic acid remodeling by treatment with C. perfringens sialidase on MoDCs' phenotypic and functional characteristics. Our investigation juxtaposes this novel approach with the conventional cytokine-based maturation regimen commonly employed in clinical settings.
Notably, C. perfringens sialidase remarkably increased MHC-I levels compared to other sialidases having different specificities, supporting the idea that higher MHC-I is due to the cleavage of specific sialoglycans on cell surface proteins. Sialidase treatment induced rapid elevated surface expression of MHC-I, MHC-II, and CD40 within an hour, a response not fully replicated by 48h cytokine cocktail treatment. These increases were also observable 48h post sialidase treatment. While CD86 and PD-L1 showed significant increases after 48h of cytokine maturation, 48h post sialidase treatment showed a higher increase of CD86 and shorter increase of PD-L1. CCR-7 expression was significantly increased 48h after sialidase treatment but not significantly affected by cytokine maturation. Both treatments promoted higher secretion of the IL-12 cytokine. However, the cytokine cocktail induced a more pronounced IL-12 production. SNA lectin staining analysis demonstrated that the sialic acid profile is significantly altered by sialidase treatment, but not by the cytokine cocktail, which causes only slight sialic acid upregulation. Notably, the lipid-presenting molecules CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c remained unaffected by sialidase treatment in MoDCs, a finding also further supported by experiments performed on C1R cells. Inhibition of endogenous sialidases Neu1 and Neu3 during MoDC differentiation did not affect surface MHC-I expression and cytokine secretion. Yet, sialidase activity in MoDCs was minimal, suggesting that sialidase inhibition does not significantly alter MHC-I related functions. Our study highlights the unique maturation profile induced by sialic acid manipulation in MoDCs. These findings provide insights into the potential of sialic acid manipulation as a rapid immunomodulatory strategy, offering promising avenues for targeted interventions in inflammatory contexts.
Impact of the method of Mg 2+ cation introducing into the titanium post-metallocene catalytic system on their activity
Authors: TUSKAEV VLADISLAV , Kurmaev Dmitry , Gagieva Svetlana , Golubev Evgenii , Buzin Mikhail , Khrustalev Viktor , Aksenova Svetlana , Gracheva Alexandra V. , Bulychev Boris 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

This work shows for the first time the influence of the method of introducing Mg compounds into a post-metallocene-type catalytic system on its catalytical performance and the properties of the resulting polymer, and it is concluded that the real catalytic center is heterometallic Ti/Mg complexes. Compares three different approaches to introducing Mg compounds into catalytic systems containing a titanium(IV) dichloride complex with an (O^O)2- type ligand and an organoaluminium compound - the use of Al/Mg co-catalysts, the immobilization of a Ti complex on the surface of anhydrous MgCl2 and in situ preparation of heterometallic Ti/Mg complexes. All three approaches lead to the production of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, but systems with externally introduced magnesium chloride showed the lowest productivity. UHMWPE samples synthesized on Ti/Mg precatalysts and conventional OAC are suitable for solvent-free solid-phase processing into high-strength, high-modulus film threads.
Organoclay as a potential eco-friendly substitute of chalk in the manufacturing of the PVC based electric cable
Authors: Kouadria Yacine , Lahouimel Mouloud , Bendjaouahdou chaouki 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The aim of this work was to study the effects of an organoclay on the properties of a polyvinyl chloride polymer and to compare the obtained results to polyvinyl chloride/chalk counterpart in order to replace the expansive, no eco-friendly and irritant chalk by the cheap and eco-friendly organoclay in the electric cable polyvinyl chloride manufacturing. The obtained nanocomposites were prepared by dry blending followed by extrusion. The obtained results showed a clear improvement of the blend mechanical properties. The x-ray diffraction analysis evidenced an intercalation of the polyvinyl chloride chains between organoclay platelets. The thermal stability (Beilstein test) of the nanocomposite was greatly improved. Differential screen analysis showed that the glass transition temperature of the nanocomposite is higher than the neat polyvinyl chloride. A rheological analysis revealed that the addition of organoclay had not damaged the processability of the nanocomposite. Screen electronic microscopy analysis revealed a uniform dispersion of the organoclay particles in the polyvinyl chloride matrix.