Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Omics and Male Infertility: Highlighting the Application of Transcriptomic Data

Male infertility is a multifaceted disorder affecting approximately 50% of male partners in infertile couples. Over the years, male infertility has been diagnosed mainly through semen analysis, hormone evaluations, medical records and physical examinations, which of course are fundamental, but yet inefficient, because 30% of male infertility cases remain idiopathic. This dilemmatic status of the unknown needs to be addressed with more sophisticated and result-driven technologies and/or techniques. Genetic alterations have been linked with male infertility, thereby unveiling the practicality of investigating this disorder from the “omics” perspective. Omics aims at analyzing the structure and functions of a whole constituent of a given biological function at different levels, including the molecular gene level (genomics), transcript level (transcriptomics), protein level (proteomics) and metabolites level (metabolomics). In the current study, an overview of the four branches of omics and their roles in male infertility are briefly discussed; the potential usefulness of assessing transcriptomic data to understand this pathology is also elucidated. After assessing the publicly obtainable transcriptomic data for datasets on male infertility, a total of 1385 datasets were retrieved, of which 10 datasets met the inclusion criteria and were used for further analysis. These datasets were classified into groups according to the disease or cause of male infertility. The groups include non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), obstructive azoospermia (OA), non-obstructive and obstructive azoospermia (NOA and OA), spermatogenic dysfunction, sperm dysfunction, and Y chromosome microdeletion. Findings revealed that 8 genes (LDHC, PDHA2, TNP1, TNP2, ODF1, ODF2, SPINK2, PCDHB3) were commonly differentially expressed between all disease groups. Likewise, 56 genes were common between NOA versus NOA and OA (ADAD1, BANF2, BCL2L14, C12orf50, C20orf173, C22orf23, C6orf99, C9orf131, C9orf24, CABS1, CAPZA3, CCDC187, CCDC54, CDKN3, CEP170, CFAP206, CRISP2, CT83, CXorf65, FAM209A, FAM71F1, FAM81B, GALNTL5, GTSF1, H1FNT, HEMGN, HMGB4, KIF2B, LDHC, LOC441601, LYZL2, ODF1, ODF2, PCDHB3, PDHA2, PGK2, PIH1D2, PLCZ1, PROCA1, RIMBP3, ROPN1L, SHCBP1L, SMCP, SPATA16, SPATA19, SPINK2, TEX33, TKTL2, TMCO2, TMCO5A, TNP1, TNP2, TSPAN16, TSSK1B, TTLL2, UBQLN3). These genes, particularly the above-mentioned 8 genes, are involved in diverse biological processes such as germ cell development, spermatid development, spermatid differentiation, regulation of proteolysis, spermatogenesis and metabolic processes. Owing to the stage-specific expression of these genes, any mal-expression can ultimately lead to male infertility. Therefore, currently available data on all branches of omics relating to male fertility can be used to identify biomarkers for diagnosing male infertility, which can potentially help in unravelling some idiopathic cases.
Selenium-Rich Yeast Peptide Fraction Ameliorates Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-like Dermatitis in Mice by Inhibiting Inflammation via MAPK and NF-κB Signaling Pathways

Psoriasis, a chronic and immune-mediated inflammatory disease, adversely affects patients’ lives. We previously prepared selenium-rich yeast peptide fraction (SeP) from selenium-rich yeast protein hydrolysate and found that SeP could effectively alleviate ultraviolet radiation-induced skin damage in mice and inhibited H2O2-induced cytotoxicity in cultured human epidermal keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells. This study aimed to investigate whether SeP had a protective effect on imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis-like dermatitis in mice and the underlying mechanisms. Results showed that SeP significantly ameliorated the severity of skin lesion in IMQ-induced psoriasis-like mouse model. Moreover, SeP treatment significantly attenuated the expression of key inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-23, IL-17A, and IL-17F, in the dorsal skin of mice. Mechanistically, SeP application not only inhibited the activation of JNK and p38 MAPK, but also the translocation of NF-κB into the nucleus in the dorsal skin. Furthermore, SeP treatment inhibited the levels of inflammatory cytokines and the activation of MAPK and NF-κB signaling induced by lipopolysaccharide in HaCaT cells and macrophage cell line RAW264.7. Overall, our findings showed that SeP alleviated psoriasis-like skin inflammation by inhibiting MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways, which suggested that SeP would have a potential therapeutic effect against psoriasis.
Effect of Irrigation Schedule, Weed Management and Nitrogen Levels on Weed Growth in Rice (Oryza sativa) under Aerobic Conditions

A field study was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Kampasagar, Nalgonda district of Andhra Pradesh during the kharif seasons of 2008 and 2009 to find out the effect of irrigation schedules, weed management practices and nitrogen levels on weed growth, nutrient depletion and yield of aerobic rice. The major weed flora observed in the experimental plot was Echinochloa colona L. , Cynodon dactylon Pers. , Dactyloctenium aegyptium Beauv. , Cyperus rotundus L. (Monocots), Eclipta alba Hassk. , Trianthemaportulacastrum L. and Amaranthus viridis L. (Dicots) during both the years. Irrigation scheduled at seven days interval during vegetative stage and four days interval during reproductive stage resulted in significantly higher weed density, weed dry matter production and NPK removal by weeds and higher panicle number and weight, filled spikelets per panicle grain yield and NPK uptake at harvest than that of irrigation scheduled once in two days. Pre-emergence application of pendimethalin @ 1 kg/ha fb cono weeding at 30 DAS and one HW at 45 DAS recorded significantly lower weed density, weed dry matter production and NPK uptake by weeds and significantly higher panicle number and weight, filled spikelets per panicle, NPK uptake at harvest and grain yield than that of pre-emergence application of pendimethalin @ 1 kg/ha fb 2, 4-D Na salt @ 1 kg/ha at 40 DAS and HW at 20 and 45 DAS. Among latter treatments, significantly lower values of above said weed parameters and significantly higher crop parameters were observed with pre-emergence application of pendimethalin @ 1 kg/ha fb 2, 4-D Na salt @ 1 kg/ha at 40 DAS as compared to HW at 20 and 45 DAS. Weed density, weed dry matter production and NPK removal by weeds and panicle number, length and weight, filled spikelets per panicle, grain yield and NPK uptake at harvest were significantly higher at 180 kg N/ha during both the years.
Multi-task Learning and Multimodal Fusion for Road Segmentation

The road segmentation task is to extract the road surface from the image at pixel level. In road segmentation for remote sensing images, deep learning-based methods have shown high-quality results in various scenarios. However, existing segmentation methods usually produce discontinuous roads, which is not beneficial to applying practical scenarios. We propose a multi-task learning method of road segmentation, direction estimation and road edge learning to make our model connect roads reasonably. Moreover, we use the initial road segmentation results and the direction estimation results to make cascade inference to improve the model’s performance. We adopt the Canny operator to extract the edge information of images as the auxiliary modality fusion. We demonstrate our method’s effectiveness on two large-scale road segmentation datasets DeepGlobe and SpaceNet.
Waterborne Antifouling Paints Containing Nanometric Copper and Silver against Marine Bacillus Species

Due to the concern to find an alternative to reduce the colonization (microfouling and macrofouling) or the biocorrosion of surfaces submerged for long periods in water, we evaluated the antifouling activity of a commercial paint added with silver nanoparticles (AgNP's) and copper nanoparticles (CuNP's), beside copper-soybean chelate, by electrolytic synthesis, using them in low concentrations (6.94E − 04 mg Ag g−1 paint, 9.07E − 03 mg Cu g−1 paint, and 1.14E − 02 mg Cu g−1 paint, respectively). The test for paint samples was carried out by JIS Z2801-ISO 22196 for periods of initial time, 6 months, and 12 months, against three bacterial strains of marine origin, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus pumilus, and Bacillus altitudinis. It was possible to demonstrate, according to the standard, that the sample with the greatest antimicrobial activity was the copper-soybean chelate against two of the three strains studied (B. pumilus with R = 2.11 and B. subtilis with R = 2.41), which represents more than 99% of bacterial inhibition. Therefore, we considered a novel option for inhibiting bacterial growth with nanoparticles as antifouling additives.
Wastewater reuse: Perception and social acceptance

The planned reuse of treated wastewater is the most effective instrument for the sustainability of water resources management. Given the various possibilities and advantages of reusing treated wastewater, sociocultural acceptance can be a limiting factor for the success of this practice. This study analysed the perceptions and social acceptability regarding the reuse of treated water in individuals with a high level of education, as they have a strong influence on the transformations of society. The study was carried out in the city of Palmas (Brazil). The results indicated that the public was receptive to this practice for indirect uses, but had a strong rejection of direct reuse. Schooling was associated with knowledge about sanitation issues. This correlation with the acceptability of reusing treated wastewater for the investigated uses was not observed. Of the total respondents, 96.3% stated that cultural factors can cause people to reject the practice of reuse, resulting from the consequent culture of waste and non‐valorization of water sources.
Student engagement in online learning in Latin American higher education during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A systematic review

Abstract The COVID‐19 pandemic has forced higher education institutions to implement online learning activities based on virtual platforms, allowing little time to prepare and train faculty members to familiarize students with digital technologies. While previous studies have looked at how students engaged with digital technologies in their learning activities, the characteristics of the student engagement in online learning remain underexplored. Therefore, a systematic review of the literature on student engagement in online learning in higher education is much needed. This article synthesizes the findings on student engagement in Latin American higher education institutions during the COVID‐19 pandemic. After reviewing the studies on online learning activities, this review examines student engagement from behavioural, cognitive and affective dimensions and identifies the main characteristics of student engagement from these tripartite dimensions. The implications of the findings for online learning in Latin American higher education are as follows: (a) to transform higher education, (b) to provide adequate professional training, (c) to improve Internet connectivity, (d) to ensure quality online learning in higher education and (e) to provide emotional support. These findings will provide valuable guidance for teachers, educational authorities and policy makers and help them make informed decisions to use effective strategies to support online learning in higher education institutions. Practitioner notes What is already known about this topic The COVID‐19 pandemic has disrupted the normal operation of higher education institutions across Latin America, impelling a shift from face‐to‐face instruction to online teaching and learning. Research on online learning in Latin American higher education has been conducted, but the findings and their implications are yet to be widely disseminated among researchers, practitioners and decision‐makers. What this paper adds Providing a systematic review of research on student engagement in online learning in Latin American higher education institutions. Analyzing the construct of student engagement in online learning from tripartite dimensions—behavioral, cognitive and affective—in the Latin American higher education context. Identifying the characteristics associated to each dimension of student engagement in online learning. Implications for practice and/or policy The need to transform the higher education system in Latin America and beyond, at two levels: to improve Internet connectivity at the technological level and to ensure the quality of online education at the pedagogical level. The urgency to offer an adequate professional training regarding the use of new technologies in online learning environments. The significance for higher education institutions to provide emotional support for students during the COVID‐10 pandemic.
A homoeopathic drug proving of Sutherlandia frutescens and a subsequent comparison to those remedies producing the highest numerical values and total number of rubrics on repertorisation of the proving symptoms

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effect of Sutherlandia frutescens 30CH on healthy provers, and to record the signs and symptoms produced, so that it may be prescribed according to the Law of Similars. A further aim of the investigation was to compare those remedies yielding the highest numerical value and total number of rubrics on repertorisation of the proving symptoms to Sutherlandia frutescens. It was hypothesised that the 30CH potency of Sutherlandia frutescens would produce clearly observable signs and symptoms in healthy provers, and that the comparison of Sutherlandia frutescens to those remedies yielding the highest numerical value and total number of rubrics on repertorisation of the proving symptoms would highlight differences and similarities between the remedy symptoms so that confusion as to indication is erased. It was hypothesised that a fuller understanding of Sutherlandia frutescens and its relationship to other remedies would be gained following this comparison. III A double blind, placebo controlled proving of Sutherlandia frutescens 30CH was conducted on twenty-four healthy volunteers who met the inclusion criteria. Six of the twenty-four provers randomly received placebo, with neither prover nor researcher knowing who was on placebo. Provers had a homoeopathic case history taken and physical examination performed on them before commencement of the proving. The provers recorded their signs and symptoms before, during and after administration of the remedy, by means of a journal. On completion of the proving, the information was correlated and assessed by the four researchers, the symptoms elicited translated into Materia Medica and Repertory language, and a homoeopathic picture of the remedy formulated. Data from the case histories, physical examinations and group discussion were also considered.
Numerical Simulation and Structure Optimization of the Flow Field in the Centrifugal Gas-Liquid Separators

Based on the computational fluid dynamics(CFD) method, a simulation was made of the normal vertical-vessel type centrifugal gas-liquid separators using Gambit and Fluent software. The flow field analysis shows that the gas-liquid separating efficiency is not satisfied with the bad axial symmetry of the flow field and high gas content near the underflow outlet. With a structure optimization, the axial symmetry of the flow field and the volume fraction of the gas phase in the separators were improved, and the purification level of the separators was increased by changing the underflow outlet into draining liquid from the low side; changing the single outlet into double outlet; reducing the diameter of the vessel; extending the overflow tube into the low side under the separator; changing the low end of the separator into conical structure; and so on.
Higher inequality in Latin America: a collateral effect of the pandemic

This study explores the evolution of inequality in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic by using primary data from household and employment surveys collected in 2020. First, we discuss the trends in inequality in the region from 1992 to 2020. Next, we estimate regression models to examine how the changes in demographics and education levels might be correlated with changes in income distribution. Finally, we use a panel regression model with fixed effects for 16 countries in the region to identify how the socioeconomic context might help explain the changes in income inequality. The empirical findings suggest that inequality increased by a statistically significant 2% between 2019 and 2020. We obtained significantly heterogeneous results when disaggregating by gender, urban/rural location, and sector of economic activity. Remittances had a modest effect, while government transfers helped to prevent more significant disparities in half the countries studied. Our estimations show that the decline in employment levels–due to the economic contraction caused by COVID-19— is associated with increases in income inequality that might gradually diminish with the recovery. © 2023 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.
Echinoderm model systems, homology, and phylogenetic inference: comment and reply to Paul (2021)

Understanding the phylogenetic relationship among derived blastozoans has been a goal of researchers since phylogenetic methodologies were first applied to Paleozoic echinoderms. Paul (2021) proposed a new “pan-dichoporites” group to circumscribe early Paleozoic blastozoans. Unfortunately, this work includes many inaccuracies, non-reproducible analyses, and nonstandard method choices that confuse rather than advance the understanding of echinoderm paleobiology. Herein, we focus on key aspects of philosophy, methodology, and data reproducibility the publication of Paul (2021) raises that need to be addressed and considered by echinoderm researchers as they assess the concept of pan-dichoporite echinoderms.
Effects of vitamin D with or without calcium on pathological ossification: A retrospective clinical study

Vitamin D protects against the development and severity of several rheumatic diseases. However, the effect of vitamin D on the pathological ossification associated with rheumatic diseases remains unknown. The present retrospective study analyzed the clinical outcomes of vitamin D without calcium compared with vitamin D with calcium on pathological ossification in joints and ligaments. Data were collected from patients who were diagnosed with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or spondylarthritis, and the presence of pathological ossification in joints or ligaments was confirmed by X-ray, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging examination. A total of 2,965 patients aged 18-75 years old were included, among who, 1,725 were included in the vitamin D alone group and 1,240 in the vitamin D with calcium group. Vitamin D was administered intramuscularly (300,000 IU) once every 7-10 days, 4-6 times in total. Patients who ingested an oral calcium supplement (1,000 mg/day; ≥5 days/week) were considered the vitamin D with calcium group. The clinical outcome was evaluated based on the imaging changes of pathological ossification, which were classified as alleviation, aggravation and unchanged. The bone mineral density (BMD) was determined, and the calcium concentration in the serum and urine was measured. The results revealed that vitamin D alone alleviated pathological ossification, while vitamin D combined with calcium aggravated pathological ossification in the majority of patients (P<0.0001) independent of disease type and patient age. BMD measurements demonstrated a decreasing trend in the vitamin D alone group, whereas they exhibited an increasing trend in the vitamin D combined with calcium group. The urine calcium concentration increased after vitamin D treatment alone. Therefore, it was concluded that vitamin D exerted both pro-resorptive and anti-resorptive actions on pathological ossification. The bidirectional action of vitamin D on bone metabolism may depend on exogenous calcium supplementation.
Returnees’ Influences on China: A Business Perspective (1850s to 1940s)

Since the first Chinese student, Yung Wing, studied abroad in 1847, large waves of Chinese have followed his lead, aiming to study advanced technology and ideologies, with the mission to save their backward country. This paper discusses the benefits and changes of this overseas experience for the students, and reviews the important role played by the returnees in the nation’s industrialization between 1850s and 1940s. By analyzing the cases of a number of representative returnees in various industries, we summarize their features and the contributions they have made to the advancement of modern business in China, such as the application of new technologies to boost productivity, the focus on R&D and the training of employees, and the implementation of modern management systems.
Personal narrative intervention for school-age children with Down syndrome: A focus on macrostructure

The ability to narrate past personal events is important for classroom participation and socio-emotional wellbeing. Although school-age children with Down syndrome show significant challenges producing personal event narratives, there is little research to guide personal narrative intervention. This study used a single subject experimental design to investigate the effectiveness of a personal narrative intervention program aimed at enhancing children's ability to include narrative elements when sharing a personal narrative. Eight children with Down syndrome participated in two intervention sessions a week over 7 weeks. Progress was measured as inclusion of narrative elements in response to three types of prompts: an open prompt, the child's own photo, and a generic photo of children engaged in a familiar activity. Parents completed a post-intervention survey to determine social validity and feasibility. Following intervention, five participants demonstrated significant progress on the open prompt, whereas three participants failed to make significant progress on any of the prompts. Although the results highlight the feasibility of the intervention and demonstrate the effectiveness for at least five of the participants, recommendations are provided to guide further work in this important area to help facilitate social inclusion for this group of children.
Land Speculation and Wobbly Dynamics with Endogenous Phase Transitions

This paper examines the global macro-dynamics of a dynamic model with capital and land with rational expectations. Through the interactions between capital accumulation and land prices, the economy experiences phase transitions, endogenously moving from back and forth from situations with unique and multiple momentary equilibria. Consequently, there can be a plethora of rational expectation equilibria trajectories, without any smooth convergence properties, neither converging to a steady state or even to a limit cycle—what we call “wobbly” macro-dynamics. The price of land and other key macro variables (wages, interest rates, output, consumption, wealth, capital stock) endogenously fluctuate within a well-identified range with repeated boom-bust cycles. The key disturbance to the economy is endogenous; even with rational expectations, there can be real estate booms, with resource allocation deteriorating as land prices increase, crowding out productive investments; but such unsustainable land price booms inevitably are followed by a crash. We analyze the set of parameter values for which wobbly fluctuations occur, show that with some parameter values, the only r.e. trajectories involve such wobbly dynamics, demonstrate how changes in parameters affect global macro-dynamics, and show how policy interventions can affect stability and social welfare.