bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving prediction of drug-target interactions based on fusing multiple features with data balancing and feature selection techniques
Authors: Khojasteh Hakimeh , Pirgazi Jamshid , Ghanbari Sorkhi Ali
Published: August 2023

Drug discovery relies on predicting drug-target interaction (DTI), which is an important challenging task. The purpose of DTI is to identify the interaction between drug chemical compounds and protein targets. Traditional wet lab experiments are time-consuming and expensive, that’s why in recent years, the use of computational methods based on machine learning has attracted the attention of many researchers. Actually, a dry lab environment focusing more on computational methods of interaction prediction can be helpful in limiting search space for wet lab experiments. In this paper, a novel multi-stage approach for DTI is proposed that called SRX-DTI. In the first stage, combination of various descriptors from protein sequences, and a FP2 fingerprint that is encoded from drug are extracted as feature vectors. A major challenge in this application is the imbalanced data due to the lack of known interactions, in this regard, in the second stage, the One-SVM-US technique is proposed to deal with this problem. Next, the FFS-RF algorithm, a forward feature selection algorithm, coupled with a random forest (RF) classifier is developed to maximize the predictive performance. This feature selection algorithm removes irrelevant features to obtain optimal features. Finally, balanced dataset with optimal features is given to the XGBoost classifier to identify DTIs. The experimental results demonstrate that our proposed approach SRX-DTI achieves higher performance than other existing methods in predicting DTIs. The datasets and source code are available at: https://github.com/Khojasteh-hb/SRX-DTI.
Effects of nature-adapted lighting solutions (“Virtual Sky”) on subjective and objective correlates of sleepiness, well-being, visual and cognitive performance at the workplace
Authors: Schöllhorn Isabel , Deuring Gunnar , Stefani Oliver , Strumberger Michael A. , Rosburg Timm , Lemoine Patrick , Pross Achim , Wingert Benjamin , Mager Ralph , Cajochen Christian
Published: August 2023

Exposure to natural daylight benefits human well-being, alertness, circadian rhythms and sleep. Many workplaces have limited or no access to daylight. Thus, we implemented a light-panel (“Virtual Sky“), which reproduced nature-adapted light scenarios. In a laboratory office environment, three lighting scenarios were presented during the day: two lighting conditions with nature-adapted spectral light distributions, one with static and one with dynamic clouds, and a standard office lighting condition. We compared the impact of the three lighting scenarios on subjective and objective measures of alertness, cognitive performance, wellbeing, visual comfort, contrast sensitivity, and cortisol levels in 18 healthy young male volunteers in a within-participant cross-over study design. We found no evidence that an 8-h lighting scenario with static or dynamic clouds during the waking day (9am-5pm) was associated with any significant effect on objective and/or subjective alertness, cognitive performance and morning cortisol concentrations compared to standard workplace lighting. However, the dynamic light scenario was accompanied with lower levels of perceived tensionafter completing cognitive tasks and less effort to concentrate compared to the static lighting scenarios. Our findings suggest that apart from smaller effects on tension and concentration effort, nature-adapted lighting conditions did not improve daytime alertness and cognitive performance in healthy well-rested young participants, as compared to standard office lighting.
Impact of severe mental illnesses on health-related quality of life among patients attending the Institute of Psychiatry, Rawalpindi from 2019 to 2021: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Umar Zarnain , Tahir Zona , Nizami Asad
Published: August 2023

Background

Severe mental illnesses have huge impact on health-related quality of life. They contribute to significant morbidity in terms of number of number of years of life lost in form DALYS (disability adjusted life years) and shorter life expectancy and early mortality. There is limited evidence on their burden in low- and middle-income countries like Pakistan.

Objective

To determine the health-related quality of life in patients suffering from severe mental illness (schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar affective disorder) and demographic factors associated with poor health related quality of life in these patients.

Methodology

This was descriptive cross sectional, using retrospective record view of data. Study was done under IMPACT (Improving Mental And Physical health Together) Program, which conducted a multi-morbidity survey conducted at institute of psychiatry, Benazir Bhutto hospital, Rawalpindi, using EQ 5d 5l (EURO QOL 5D5L) questionnaire having both subjective (EQVAS) and objective domains.

Results

The study included 922 SMI patients, of whom 555 participants (60.2%) were males and 367(39.69%) were females. The participants suffered from major depressive disorder (422;45.8%), followed by bipolar affective disorder (392; 42.51%) and schizophrenia (108;11.7%). Most participants were in a younger age group with (80%) of population being below 50 years old and had education level below secondary education (57.4%). In the analysis of association between EQ-VAS (subjective quality of life scale) and demographic factors, a significant association was found for marital status(p<0.001), gender (p< 0.001) and education (p< 0.001). Women had lower EQ-VAS scores (M = 49.43±SD = 27.72) as compared to males (M = 58.81±SD = 27.1) and individuals with lower educational status also had lower mean scores. Additionally, participants who were single, divorced or widowed also had lower mean EQVAS scores. When health related quality of life was analyzed across SMI, it was lower in all SMI, but was significantly lower for depression in both subjective and objective domains of health related of quality-of-life instrument.

Conclusion

Health related quality of life is an important outcome measure and regular assessment of both subjective and objective aspects should be incorporated in management plans of patients suffering from severe mental illnesses.
Community coalitions for smoke-free environments in Armenia and Georgia: A mixed methods analysis of coalition formation, implementation and perceived effectiveness
Authors: Kegler Michelle C. , Dekanosidze Ana , Torosyan Arevik , Grigoryan Lilit , Rana Shaheen , Hayrumyan Varduhi , Sargsyan Zhanna , Berg Carla J.
Published: August 2023

Effective models for aligning public health and civil society at the local level have the potential to impact various global health issues, including tobacco. Georgia and Armenia Teams for Healthy Environments and Research (GATHER) is a collaboration between Armenia, Georgia and U.S. researchers involving a community randomized trial testing the impact of community coalitions to promote smoke-free policy adoption and compliance in various settings. Community Coalition Action Theory (CCAT) was used to guide and describe coalition formation, implementation and effectiveness. Mixed methods were used to evaluate 14 municipality-based coalitions in Georgia and Armenia, including semi-structured interviews (n = 42) with coalition leaders and active members, coalition member surveys at two timepoints (n = 85 and n = 83), and review of action plans and progress reports. Results indicated successful creation of 14 multi-sectoral coalitions, most commonly representing education, public health, health care, and municipal administration. Half of the coalitions created at least one smoke-free policy in specific settings (e.g., factories, parks), and all 14 promoted compliance with existing policies through no-smoking signage and stickers. The majority also conducted awareness events in school, health care, and community settings, in addition to educating the public about COVID and the dangers of tobacco use. Consistent with CCAT, coalition processes (e.g., communication) were associated with member engagement and collaborative synergy which, in turn, correlated with perceived community impact, skills gained by coalition members, and interest in sustainability. Findings suggest that community coalitions can be formed in varied sociopolitical contexts and facilitate locally-driven, multi-sectoral collaborations to promote health. Despite major contextual challenges (e.g., national legislation, global pandemic, war), coalitions were resilient, nimble and remained active. Additionally, CCAT propositions appear to be generalizable, suggesting that coalition-building guidance may be relevant for local public health in at least some global contexts.
Divide, conquer and reconstruct: How to solve the 3D structure of recalcitrant Micro-Exon Gene (MEG) protein from Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Nedvedova Stepanka , Guillière Florence , Miele Adriana Erica , Cantrelle François-Xavier , Dvorak Jan , Walker Olivier , Hologne Maggy
Published: August 2023

Micro-Exon Genes are a widespread class of genes known for their high variability, widespread in the genome of parasitic trematodes such as Schistosoma mansoni. In this study, we present a strategy that allowed us to solve the structures of three alternatively spliced isoforms from the Schistoma mansoni MEG 2.1 family for the first time. All isoforms are hydrophobic, intrinsically disordered, and recalcitrant to be expressed in high yield in heterologous hosts. We resorted to the chemical synthesis of shorter pieces, before reconstructing the entire sequence. Here, we show that isoform 1 partially folds in a-helix in the presence of trifluoroethanol while isoform 2 features two rigid elbows, that maintain the peptide as disordered, preventing any structuring. Finally, isoform 3 is dominated by the signal peptide, which folds into a-helix. We demonstrated that combining biophysical techniques, like circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance at natural abundance, with in silico molecular dynamics simulation for isoform 1 only, was the key to solve the structure of MEG 2.1. Our results provide a crucial piece to the puzzle of this elusive and highly variable class of proteins.
Comparison of obstetric emergency clinical readiness: A cross-sectional analysis of hospitals in Amhara, Ethiopia
Authors: Dougherty Kylie , Gebremariam Gobezayehu Abebe , Lijalem Mulusew , Alamineh Endalamaw Lamesgin , Biza Heran , Cranmer John N.
Published: August 2023

Measuring facility readiness to manage basic obstetric emergencies is a critical step toward reducing persistently elevated maternal mortality ratios (MMR). Currently, the Signal Functions (SF) is the gold standard for measuring facility readiness globally and endorsed by the World Health Organization. The presence of tracer items classifies facilities’ readiness to manage basic emergencies. However, research suggests the SF may be an incomplete indicator. The Clinical Cascades (CC) have emerged as a clinically-oriented alternative to measuring readiness. The purpose of this study is to determine Amhara’s clinical readiness and quantify the relationship between SF and CC estimates of readiness. Data were collected in May 2021via Open Data Kit (ODK) and KoBo Toolbox. We surveyed 20 hospitals across three levels of the health system. Commodities were used to create measures of SF-readiness (e.g., % tracers) and CC-readiness. We calculated differences in SF and CC estimates and calculated readiness loss across six emergencies and 3 stages of care in the cascades. The overall SF estimate for all six obstetric emergencies was 29.6% greater than the estimates using the CC. Consistent with global patterns, hospitals were more prepared to provide medical management (70.0% ready) compared to manual procedures (56.7% ready). The SF overestimate was greater for manual procedures 33.8% overall for retained placenta and incomplete abortion) and less for medical treatments (25.3%). Hospitals were least prepared to manage retained placentas (30.0% of facilities were ready at treatment and 0.0% were ready at monitor and modify) and most prepared to manage hypertensive emergencies (85.0% of facilities were ready at the treatment stage). When including protocols in the analysis, no facilities were ready to monitor and modify the initial therapy when clinically indicated for 3 common emergencies—sepsis, post-partum hemorrhage and retained placentas. We identified a significant discrepancy between SF and CC readiness classifications. Those facilities that fall within this discrepancy are unprepared to manage common obstetric emergencies, and employees in supply management may have difficulty identify the need. Future research should explore the possibility of modifying the SF or replacing it with a new readiness measurement.
Involvement of service user representatives on a healthcare organizational level at Norwegian Healthy Life Centres: A qualitative study exploring health professionals’ experiences
Authors: Sagsveen Espen , Rise Marit By , Westerlund Heidi , Grønning Kjersti , Bratås Ola
Published: August 2023

Background

The involvement of service user representatives in planning, delivering, and evaluating health care services is regarded as essential in Healthy Life Centres (HLCs) to ensure high-quality services. However, information on how HLC-professionals involve service user representatives at a healthcare organizational level at HLCs remains sparse.

Objective

To explore HLC professionals’ experiences involving service user representatives in planning, delivering, and evaluating the HLC services.

Methods

Five qualitative semi-structured focus group interviews with 27 health professionals from 27 Norwegian HLCs were conducted. Data were analysed using systematic text condensation.

Results

The involvement of service user representatives at the HLCs varied from well-integrated and systematized to the opposite. The professionals’ primary rationale for involving service user representatives was to include the representatives’ unique experiential knowledge to ensure the quality of the service. Experiential knowledge was seen as a ‘different’ competence, which came in addition to professional competence. The professionals’ choice of service user representatives depended on the purpose behind the involvement initiative. The HLC professionals often hand-picked former service users according to their health problems, motivation, and the HLC’s need. The professionals said they were responsible for initiating the facilitation to accomplish genuine involvement. Support from their leaders to prioritize these tasks was essential.

Conclusion

To meet the demand for adequate service user representatives, the HLCs need access to different service user representatives, representing both diagnose-based and generic service user organisations and the public. To achieve genuine involvement, the rationale behind the involvement and the representatives’ role must be clarified, both for the HLC professionals and service user representatives. This will require resources for continuous organizational preparation and facilitation.
sEMG-based prediction of human forearm movements utilizing a biomechanical model based on individual anatomical/ physiological measures and a reduced set of optimization parameters
Authors: Grimmelsmann Nils , Mechtenberg Malte , Schenck Wolfram , Meyer Hanno Gerd , Schneider Axel
Published: August 2023

For assistive devices such as active orthoses, exoskeletons or other close-to-body robotic-systems, the immediate prediction of biological limb movements based on biosignals in the respective control system can be used to enable intuitive operation also by untrained users e.g. in healthcare, rehabilitation or industrial scenarios. Surface electromyography (sEMG) signals from the muscles that drive the limbs can be measured before the actual movement occurs and, hence, can be used as source for predicting limb movements. The aim of this work was to create a model that can be adapted to a new user or movement scenario with little measurement and computing effort. Therefore, a biomechanical model is presented that predicts limb movements of the human forearm based on easy to measure sEMG signals of the main muscles involved in forearm actuation (lateral and long head of triceps and short and long head of biceps). The model has 42 internal parameters of which 37 were attributed to 8 individually measured physiological measures (location of acromion at the shoulder, medial/lateral epicondyles as well as olecranon at the elbow, and styloid processes of radius/ulna at the wrist; maximum muscle forces of biceps and triceps). The remaining 5 parameters are adapted to specific movement conditions in an optimization process. The model was tested in an experimental study with 31 subjects in which the prediction quality of the model was assessed. The quality of the movement prediction was evaluated by using the normalized mean absolute error (nMAE) for two arm postures (lower, upper), two load conditions (2 kg, 4 kg) and two movement velocities (slow, fast). For the resulting 8 experimental combinations the nMAE varied between nMAE = 0.16 and nMAE = 0.21 (lower numbers better). An additional quality score (QS) was introduced that allows direct comparison between different movements. This score ranged from QS = 0.25 to QS = 0.40 (higher numbers better) for the experimental combinations. The above formulated aim was achieved with good prediction quality by using only 8 individual measurements (easy to collect body dimensions) and the subsequent optimization of only 5 parameters. At the same time, just easily accessible sEMG measurement locations are used to enable simple integration, e.g. in exoskeletons. This biomechanical model does not compete with models that measure all sEMG signals of the muscle heads involved in order to achieve the highest possible prediction quality.
Transcriptomic analysis of biofilm formation in strains of Clostridioides difficile associated with recurrent and non-recurrent infection reveals potential candidate markers for recurrence
Authors: Rubio-Mendoza Daira , Córdova-Fletes Carlos , Martínez-Meléndez Adrián , Morfín-Otero Rayo , Maldonado-Garza Héctor Jesús , Garza-González Elvira
Published: August 2023

The transcriptomic profile in a biofilm model of ribotypes (RT) 001 and 027 associated with recurrentClostridioides difficileinfection (R-CDI) and not associated with recurrent (NR)-CDI was analyzed to identify genes that may favor the recurrence. Twenty strains were selected, 10 RT001 and 10 RT027. From each ribotype, 5 were R-CDI and 5 NR-CDI. Biofilm and nonadherent cells were prepared from each clinical isolate, and the RNA was extracted. RNA samples were pooled in 8 combinations implying ribotype, recurrence, and biofilm formation. Each pool was separately labeled with Cy3 dye and hybridized on a microarray designed for this study. Slides were scanned, analyzed, and gene expression was compared between unique and grouped pools using the Student’s t-test with Benjamini-Hochberg correction when appropriate. Validation was carried out by qRT-PCR for selected genes. Results: After comparisons of differentially expressed genes from both ribotypes of R-CDI strains (nonadherent cells vs. biofilm) and both ribotypes in biofilm (R-CDI vs. NR-CDI), we found 3 genes over-expressed and 1 under-expressed in common (adj. p ≤ 0.05). Overexpressed genes wereCAJ70148(a putative dehydrogenase),CAJ68100(a secretion type II system protein from the GspH (pseudopilins) family), andCAJ69725(a putative membrane protein); under-expressed wasCAJ68151(a segregation and condensation protein A). BecauseCAJ70148,CAJ68100,CAJ69725andCAJ68151were differentially expressed in biofilm in strains associated with R-CDI, they may support the biofilm favoring the recurrence of CDI. However, further studies will be needed for poorly studied genes.
Patient, family member, and health care provider perspective on barriers and facilitators to diabetic retinopathy screening in Thailand: A qualitative study
Authors: Kumar Geetha , Velu Saranya , Pardhan Shahina , Sapkota Raju , Ruamviboonsuk Paisan , Tadarati Mongkol , Chotcomwongse Peranut , Nganthavee Variya , Pattanapongpaiboon Warisara , Raman Rajiv
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) can cause significant visual impairment which can be largely avoided by early detection through proper screening and treatment. People with DR face a number of challenges from early detection to treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate factors that influence DR screening in Thailand and to identify barriers to follow-up compliance from patient, family member, and health care provider (HCP) perspectives.

Methods

A total of 15 focus group discussions (FGDs) were held, each with five to twelve participants. There were three distinct stakeholders: diabetic patients (n = 47) presenting to a diabetic retinopathy clinic in Thailand, their family members (n = 41), and health care providers (n = 34). All focus group conversations were transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to examine textual material.

Results

Different themes emerged from the FGD on knowledge about diabetes, self-care behaviors of diabetes mellitus (DM), awareness about DR, barriers to DR screening, and the suggested solutions to address those barriers. Data showed lower knowledge and awareness about diabetes and DR in both patients and family members. Long waiting times, financial issues, and lack of a person to accompany appointments were identified as the major deterrents for attending DR screening. Family support for patients was found to vary widely, with some patients reporting to have received adequate support while others reported having received minimal support. Even though insurance covered the cost of attending diabetes/DR screening program, some patients did not show up for their appointments.

Conclusion

Patients need to be well-informed about the asymptomatic nature of diabetes and DR. Communication at the patient level and shared decision-making with HCPs are essential. Family members and non-physician clinicians (such as diabetes nurses, diabetes educators, physician assistants) who work in the field of diabetes play a vital role in encouraging patients to attend diabetes and DR follow-ups visits regularly.
Shift in vacuolar to cytosolic regime of infecting Salmonella from a dual proteome perspective
Authors: Fels Ursula , Willems Patrick , De Meyer Margaux , Gevaert Kris , Van Damme Petra
Published: August 2023

By applying dual proteome profiling to Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) encounters with its epithelial host (here, S. Typhimurium infected human HeLa cells), a detailed interdependent and holistic proteomic perspective on host-pathogen interactions over the time course of infection was obtained. Data-independent acquisition (DIA)-based proteomics was found to outperform data-dependent acquisition (DDA) workflows, especially in identifying the downregulated bacterial proteome response during infection progression by permitting quantification of low abundant bacterial proteins at early times of infection when bacterial infection load is low. S. Typhimurium invasion and replication specific proteomic signatures in epithelial cells revealed interdependent host/pathogen specific responses besides pointing to putative novel infection markers and signalling responses, including regulated host proteins associated with Salmonella-modified membranes.
Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of erythromycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from bovine subclinical mastitis in Egypt
Authors: Abd El-Razik Khaled A. , Arafa Amany A. , Fouad Ehab A. , Soror Ashraf H. , Abdalhamed Abeer M. , Elgioushy Magdy
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim: Subclinical mastitis (SCM) caused by erythromycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is a significant disease in lactating animals. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the genetic factors contributing to erythromycin resistance in S. aureus. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of S. aureus in milk from subclinical mastitic cattle and buffaloes and tank milk samples as identified by probe-based real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and the genotypic assessment of macrolide and erythromycin resistance profiles, as well as to analyze the phylogenetic relatedness of our local isolates of S. aureus.

Materials and Methods: In total, 285 milk samples were analyzed using the California mastitis test to detect SCM. Milk samples were cultured on different specific Staphylococcus media. The presence of S. aureus was confirmed by Gram staining, the catalase and coagulase tests, the detection of hemolytic activity, DNase agar testing, and biofilm activity in Congo red medium. The genotypic identification of S. aureus (nuc) was performed. The determinants of erythromycin (ermA, ermB, ermC, and ermT) and macrolide resistance (msrA) were screened in all isolates. DNA sequencing of our local isolates of S. aureus was used to analyze their phylogenetic relatedness. Moreover, histopathological examination of tissue specimens of mammary gland was performed.

Results: The S. aureus positivity rates were 36.4%, 48.8%, and 63.6% in cattle, buffalo, and bulk tank milk, respectively. Probe-based real-time PCR molecularly confirmed all 62 S. aureus isolates. Thirty-one isolates were subjected to PCR to create profiles of their genotypic erythromycin resistance. ermA, ermB, ermC, and ermT were present in 5 (8%), 26 (41.9%), 18 (29%), and 15 (24.1%) S. aureus isolates, respectively. Moreover, msrA was found in three (4.8%) strains. Eight PCR products were produced using standard PCR for DNA sequencing. Multiple sequence alignment, phylogenetic tree construction, and analysis of nuc in S. aureus revealed a high degree of homology (100%) with S. aureus strains isolated from milk in cases of bovine mastitis in India and Kenya. Histological analysis of udder tissues revealed extensive aggregation of mononuclear inflammatory cells in the interstitial connective tissue, primarily lymphocytes, and macrophages.

Conclusion: This study showed a high prevalence of erythromycin resistance in S. aureus isolates. This information is vital for controlling mastitis and the spread of resistance genes between bacterial strains and hosts. Moreover, the probe-based real-time PCR approach is helpful for the rapid screening of S. aureus isolates and the consequent efficient treatment and control of S. aureus mastitis.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, bovines, Egypt, erythromycin resistance, genetic diversity, Staphylococcus aureus, subclinical mastitis.
Soybean oil addition to wheat bran-based diet improves laying hens’ performance
Authors: Novela Mariana , Pinto Sónia Carlitos , Tembe Angélica , Paulo Emmanuel , Mabasso Marcos , Gove Albino , Changule Abilio Paulo , Joaquim Leonel António , Tseu Ramos , dos Anjos Filomena
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim: Wheat bran (WB) is used extensively in animal feed. Despite its nutritional value, its use is limited because of its high-fiber content. We evaluated the effect of soybean oil on laying hen performance with maize meal partly replaced by WB.

Materials and Methods: Thirty-six ISA Brown laying hens, 40 weeks old, were used in a completely randomized design in which laying hens were distributed in individual cages, with three replications of four birds and assigned to three treatments: T1 (basal diet), T2 (60% basal diet + 20% maize meal + 20% WB), and T3 (60% basal diet + 20% maize meal + 17.5% WB + 2.5% soybean oil).

Results: Compared with the control group (T1), replacing 20% of yellow maize with WB (T2) did not affect average live weight, egg laying rate, soft-shelled egg production, egg mass, feed conversion per dozen eggs, or laying hen viability (p > 0.05). When 20% of the maize meal was replaced with WB, feed intake and feed conversion per egg mass increased (p < 0.05). Furthermore, adding 2.5% soybean oil to feed containing WB improved laying hen performance by significantly reducing feed conversion per egg mass (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Adding 2.5% soybean oil to diets containing WB instead of 17.5% yellow maize improved the feed conversion per egg mass performance of laying hens.

Keywords: hens, laying, soybean oil, wheat bran.
A Multicomponent Biomarker Approach Will Shift Cancer Care
Authors:   OncoHost, Sharon Ofer
Published: August 2023

For many years we have been working towards creating a paradigm shift in cancer care, and precision oncology is rapidly evolving, with the potential to revolutionize our current standards and guidelines. But while we have made giant strides in our understanding of the disease, the current approach to biomarker development is still simplistic and fragmented, limiting our ability to understand the underlying biology of the patient’s cancer, tailor treatment to individual patients, monitor treatment response, detect early signs of relapse, and identify potential new targets for therapy. True precision oncology requires a comprehensive and integrated approach to biomarker development to really make a dent.
Why are Patient Registries Key to Accelerating Rare Disease Research?
Authors:   IndoUSrare, Rammoorthy Padma
Published: August 2023

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines Rare disease as a disorder which affects less than 6.5 to 10 per 10,000 people (Rabiei). In the European Union, the definition narrows down to 5 in 10,000 people, while in the United States, a rare disease is defined as a condition that affects fewer than 200,000 people. By these definitions there are more than 6800 (“Rare Diseases”) rare diseases. While the exact cause for most rare diseases are not known, several of these are usually traced to mutations in a single gene, which would essentially be passed down from one generation to the next. That is the reason we see these rare diseases running in families.
A Review of Hybrid Quantum Computational Substrates - A Fusion of Classical And Quantum Computational Substrates
Authors: Ramouthar Ravindra , Seker Huseyin
Published: August 2023

Through harnessing quantum mechanical phenomena, quantum computing substrates yields the promise of transcending new frontiers in confronting the world’s most intractable computational challenges requiring exponential computational power that exceeds that of today’s most powerful super-computers. The choreography of such quantum mechanical phenomena has catalysed accelerated advances in the emergence of a quantum computational substrate paradigm that yields the potential to solve some of humanities most complex problems through quantum speedup: in environment, agriculture, health, energy, climate, materials science, precision medicine, autonomous vehicles in smart cities, renewable energy and problems humanity has not yet even imagined. However, the manifestation of a practical quantum advantage across several of these areas is unlikely through the exclusive application of a quantum computational substrate. Quantum computational substrates will not replace classical computational substrates, instead, both technologies will synergistically complement each other where quantum computational substrate accelerators functions as a specialised co-processor to a classical computational substrate in computing workloads best suited for the quantum computer, in a heterogenous computational substrate ecosystem comprising other accelerators. This paper reviewed novel new frontiers at the fusion of quantum-classical computational substrates, and findings reveal that practical applications and research remain limited. The opportunity exists, in considering a heterogenous computational substrate ecosystem comprising other accelerators, for practical quantum advantage across a broader set of complex problem domains to be realised sooner
Continuing Medical Education Questions: August 2023
Authors: Sadowski Brett W.
Published: August 2023

Article Title: Impact of Cold Snare v Cold Forceps Resection of Diminutive Adenomas on Segmental Incomplete Resection Rate
Continuing Medical Education Questions: August 2023
Authors: Rampertab S. Devi
Published: August 2023

Article Title: Management of Perianal Crohn's Disease
Supporting the capacities and knowledge of small-holder farmers in Kenya for sustainable agricultural futures: A Citizen Science pilot project
Authors: Davies Matthew , Haklay Muki , Kiprutto Timothy , Laws Megan , Lewis Jerome , Lunn-Rockliffe Samuel , McGlade Jaqueline , Moreu Marcos , Yano Andrew , Kipkorir Wilson
Published: August 2023

Sub-Saharan Africa is often presented as the continent most vulnerable to climatic change with major repercussions for food systems. Coupled with high rates of population growth and existing nutritional deficiencies, the need to enhance food production across the continent is thus seen as a major global imperative. We argue here, however, that current models of agricultural development in Eastern Africa often marginalise critical small-holder knowledge from the process of future agricultural design due to a lack of a methodological tools for engagement. This paper addresses this by outlining a potential means to capture and share locally produced agronomic information on a large scale. We report on a ‘Citizen Science’ pilot study that worked with smallholder farmers in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, western Kenya, to co-design a mobile application using the well-developed
Sapelli platform that easily allows farmers to identify, record and geolocate cropping patterns and challenges at multiple stages in the agricultural calendar using their own understandings. The pilot project demonstrated the technical and epistemological benefits of co-design, the abilities of smallholder farmers to co-design and use smartphone applications, and the potential for such technology to produce and share valuable agricultural and ecological knowledge in real time. Proof-of-concept data illustrates opportunities to spatially and temporally track and respond to challenges related to climate, crop disease and pests. Such work expounds how smallholder farmers are a source of largely untapped ecological and agronomic expert knowledge that can, and should, be harnessed to address issues of future agricultural resilience and food system sustainability.
The Learning Attitudes of Innovative Autonomous Elementary School Students and the Related Variables at Different Levels of Learning Attitudes
Authors:   Center For Educational Research, Kim Misook , Shin Seon-Hi , Woo Myungsook
Published: August 2023

Purpose: We analyzed trends in the learning attitudes of students from Innovative AutonomousElementary Schools over the past three years and the related variables at various levels of learningattitudes.
Methods: We conducted trend analysis to examine trends in the learning attitudes of students atinnovative autonomous elementary schools over the past three years. We also conducted quantileregression analysis to determine which variables were significantly related to learning attitude at upper,middle, and lower levels.
Results: Students’learning attitudes indicated a clear and linear increase over time. With the adventof the COVID-19 pandemic, the growth of learning attitudes slowed, but did not retreat, and showedremarkable growth in the second year of the pandemic. This suggested the resilience of the studentsat the Innovative Autonomous Schools. As a result of the quantile regression analysis, the learningattitude was shown to be improved through the students' autonomous activities and autonomouscompetency. In addition, this study presented an example analysis in which at different places onthe distribution of the dependent variable the effects of predictor variables could be simultaneouslyexamined through quantile regression analysis.
Conclusion: This study found that the performance of innovative autonomous schools was positivethrough the trends of elementary school students’learning attitudes, and that their learning attitudescould be improved through students’autonomous activities and autonomous competencies emphasizedin the education of innovative autonomous schools. The research also illustrated the importance ofoperating a curriculum that fosters communication skills between students and students' self-directedness during class. Through the analysis of learning attitudes by level, it was shown thatcustomized education support by level is needed.
A Study on the Evaluation and Selection of Korean Language arts Textbooks of In-service Korean Language Teacher
Authors:   Center For Educational Research, Choi Sook-ki
Published: August 2023

Purpose: The purpose is to find problems derived from the elements and selection process and waysto improve them. Considering that the 2022 revised Korean language curriculum has further expandedthe type and number of high school elective courses in preparation for the high school credit systemin preparation for the 2015 revised curriculum.
Methods: For this purpose, this study conducted Focus Group Interviews (FGIs) with 9 Koreanlanguage teachers who had participated in the evaluation and selection of Korean language textbooksin unit schools based on the revised 2015 Korean language curriculum.
Results: 1) Korean language teachers mainly adopted the “overall textbook evaluation approach” dueto the high burden of evaluation in the process of selecting and evaluating Korean language textbooks. 2) Variables influencing the evaluation and selection process of Korean language textbooks included “appropriate sanctions”, “adequate amount of learning content”, “various teaching and learning activitiesand availability of supplementary materials”, as well as “authors and publishers”. 3) The primaryproblems identified in the selection and evaluation of Korean language textbooks under the verificationand approval system were the excessive amount of textbooks to be evaluated, resulting in “excessivecontent and insufficient evaluation time”, and the emergence of “complex and abstract textbookevaluation criteria”.
Conclusion: Proposed solutions to address these issues include “securing evaluation time andsimplifying procedures” and “providing and utilizing objective textbook information for each publisher”.
Small Object Detection in Remote Sensing Images Based on Window Self-Attention Mechanism
Authors: Xu Jiaxin , Zhang Qiao , Liu Yu , Zheng Mengting
Published: August 2023

For remorte sensing image object detection tasks in the small object feature, extraction ability is insufficient and difficult to locate, and other problems. This paper proposes an improved algorithm for small object detection in remote sensing images based on a window self-attention
mechanism. On the basis of You Only Look Once (YOLO)v5s, a shallow feature extraction layer with four times downsampling is added to the feature fusion pyramid and the window self-attention mechanism is added to the Path Aggregation Network. Experiments show that the improved model obtained
the Mean Average Precision (mAP) of 78.3% and 91.8% on the DIOR and Remote Sensing Object Detection public data sets with frames per second of 65 and 51, respectively. Compared with the basal YOLOv5s network, the mAP has improved by 5.8% and 3.3%, respectively. Compared with other object detection
methods, the detection accuracy and real-time performance have been improved.
Developing Energy Access Ontology using Protege Tool
Authors: Sharma Reeta , Kanjilal Uma
Published: August 2023

In this internet-based world where a large amount of information exists on the World Wide Web (WWW), the information retrieval systems are mainly centred on topic-based classification. Numerous efforts and time have been consumed for relevant information extraction through major search engines if the data is not organised correctly. Ontologies proved to be an effective technique for representing and retrieving information, which is the key idea in semantic web applications. Ontologies not only help in efficient knowledge representation and information retrieval, but it also helps in mapping the hidden knowledge about a subject. This paper discusses the process and method of building ontology on the “Energy access” domain. The methodology is based on the tools used in developing the ontology. Several tools are used to create an ontology. Protégé is a most popular tool for ontology editing and for developing ontology.1 In this paper, various aspects like super class and subclass hierarchy, creating a subclass, instances for class illustration, query retrieval process, visualisation, and graph views have been demonstrated by using protégé software.
Global Research on Financial Literacy
Authors: Shollapur MR , Hulagabali Santosh C , Kolle Shankar Reddy
Published: August 2023

The paper presents bibliometric analysis of financial literacy for the year (2011-2020). A sum of 2227 was found using the Scopus database. The findings indicate gradual increase in research over the years articles. The Journal of Financial Counselling and Planning has produced more articles followed by the Journal of Consumer Affairs and Sustainability (Switzerland). The research on financial literacy appears in multidisciplinary journals, including consumer studies, social and economic education, extension, and sustainability. Lusardi A of George Washington University has contributed the highest articles. The USA has emerged as the leading contributing country in financial literacy research. The keywords that appeared the most frequently were financial literacy, financial education, financial inclusion, and financial capability. This work would provide an overview of financial literacy research.
Information Seeking Behaviour of Visually Impaired University Students in India
Authors: Khowaja Sufia , Fatima Nishat
Published: August 2023

The study was undertaken to determine the information seeking behaviour of visually impaired students at Aligarh Muslim University and University of Delhi. Study ascertained the sources and strategies employed by visually impaired students for acquiring the information. Problems encountered and suggestions to overcome are also discussed in the study. To conduct the study purposive sampling method was applied and data was collected using structured interview technique from 115 visually impaired students and analysed using SPSS. Findings of the study revealed that visually impaired students prefer electronic format for acquiring information for different academic purposes which they fulfilled from their university libraries. Students mentioned that whenever required they got help from their colleagues and library staff. The study is useful for professionals pursuing understanding about the information need of visually impaired students. Further, the study will be useful for government, academic libraries and NGOs serving visually impaired to work together on the strategies to provide better services to this group of users.
WIOC: o maior evento do mundo sobre ancoragem esquelética será aqui no Brasil!
Authors: Almeida Marcio
Published: August 2023

Que a ancoragem esquelética revolucionou definitivamente a Ortodontia não é mais novidade para ninguém... Mas o que poucos sabem é que teremos aqui no Brasil o maior evento dedicado à aplicação, ciência e tecnologia dos implantes ortodônticos. Isso mesmo, pela primeira vez, o WIOC, ou World Implant Orthodontics Conference (Conferência Mundial de Implantes Ortodônticos), será em Maringá/PR nos dias 08 e 09 de agosto de 2022. Capitaneado pela Dental Press, o WIOC reunirá acadêmicos, clínicos, estudantes e pesquisadores do mundo todo, com o fim precípuo de difundir e divulgar a ancoragem esquelética. Todavia, antes de discorrer sobre o WIOC, faço uma pequena revisão literária deste que é um dos assuntos mais importantes e intrigantes da Ortodontia moderna: a ancoragem.
Distalização de molar associada a ancoragem esquelética: alternativa para correção da Classe II na dentição permanente
Authors: Marques Aline Souza , Peixoto Guilherme Moura , Vasconcelos Junior Átila Valadares , Reis Silvia Augusta Braga , Lara Tulio Silva
Published: August 2023

INTRODUÇÃO: A má oclusão de Classe II Padrão I pode ser corrigida por meio da distalização de molares, usando aparelhos intrabucais ou extrabucais e, mais recentemente, dispositivos com ancoragem esquelética. OBJETIVO: O presente artigo descreve um relato clínico de distalização do primeiro molar superior esquerdo em um paciente na dentição permanente. O paciente compareceu à Clínica do Curso de Especialização em Ortodontia do FAIPE, onde foi constatada má oclusão de Classe II, subdivisão esquerda e falta de espaço para o canino superior esquerdo. Dois mini-implantes foram instalados no palato e confeccionou-se, laboratorialmente, um dispositivo de ancoragem apoiado em mini-implantes para a distalização do dente #26. RESULTADOS: Observou- se uma correção da relação de Classe II em oito meses, comprovando a efetividade dessa mecânica. CONCLUSÃO: Concluiu-se que a ancoragem esquelética é um sistema viável e que independe da cooperação do paciente para a distalização de molares na dentição permanente para correção da Classe II.
The dynamics of light adaptation in Ascalaphus (Libelloides macaronius; Neuroptera)
Authors: Zupančič Gregor , Meglič Andrej , Škorjanc Aleš
Published: August 2023

The owl-fly or Ascalaphus (Libelloides macaronius; Neuroptera) is an insect with a UV-sensitive superposition eye. Although optical superposition is mainly a feature of dusk/dark active animals, this is a predator living and hunting in bright sunlight. In such conditions the process of light adaptation is believed to be very important, yet it has so far only been partially explored in the owl-fly. Here we present physiological evidence for the migration of the screening pigment, which functions as a light control mechanism. The process of light adaptation was studied optically by dynamic imaging and optical reflection spectroscopy of the eye-glow. We established that the eye-glow is reduced uniformly upon illumination and that its diameter doesn’t get smaller, which is indicative of pigment migration in the primary pigment cells. The change in spectral absorbance of the dorso-frontal eye is very similar to the absorbance spectrum of the primary pigment cell screening pigment. We found that the change in the light screening due to adaptation is rather small – no more than 10 fold for a 10000 fold change in light intensity. We also found that the rate of adaptation is light-sensitive. We propose that a significant part of this light sensitivity is due to indirect heating of the eye and to the very steep temperature dependency of the rate of adaptation between 30 and 35°C.
Zgodovina Oddelka za biologijo na Univerzi v Mariboru
Authors: Devetak Dušan , Senčič Leon
Published: August 2023

/