bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic stress affects the human sex ratio: A retest of the Trivers–Willard hypothesis in Poland
Authors: Mikulec Artur , Rosset Iwona , Żądzińska Elżbieta
Published: October 2023

This paper contributes to the verification of the Trivers–Willard hypothesis (TWH). Based on the TWH, observed sex (male-to-female) ratio at birth in a population is presumed to decline when parents experience economic stress. The empirical evidence so far is mixed. The research material consisted of data on the total numbers of live male and female births in the Polish population in the years 1995–2020. The data were used to produce semiannual time series for secondary sex ratio (SSR), and the sex ratio at birth (SRB). The variable describing the economic stress of households was percentage change in private consumption. The statistical method proposed by Catalano and Bruckner – expanded to include additional statistical analyses – was applied to retest the economic stress hypothesis. The analysis led to complementary ARMAX models, explaining SSR or SRB variance based on autoregression and the moving average process, as well as private consumption. The results indicate that periods of decreasing consumption favored mothers having daughters, while periods of increasing consumption favored mothers having sons. The number of “additional” male births resulting from improved economic conditions was calculated for the period of study. Consequently, the economic factor was shown to have a positive effect on the human sex ratio. At the same time, it should be noted that SSR and SRB reaction lags to consumption changes were different for Łódzkie Province (one year) and for Poland (two years). The obtained results led to the “correct” verification of the Trivers–Willard hypothesis (TWH): economic stress affected the SSR and SRB in Poland. Both SSR and SRB were useful in analyzing economic stress (a dual solution). The use of a greater density of data points was shown to improve analysis effects and increase the likelihood of a “positive” verification of the economic stress hypothesis.
Breeding Practices and Trait Preferences of Indigenous Chicken Farmers at Madiga Village, Polokwane Local Municipality, South Africa
Authors: Mahaole A.S.W. , Rashijane L.T. , Tyasi T.L.
Published: October 2023

Background: Understanding of breeding practices and traits preferences of the communal farmers is the bottom-up approach where livestock specialists assist farmers to identify and understand their production challenges before designing an improvement program. This study was conducted to identify the socio-economic status, breeding practices, production systems and trait preferences of chicken keepers at Madiga village, Limpopo province. Methods: A total of 38 chicken farmers out of 62 were administered a well-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square test were used to analyse and test the significance among the gender respectively. Result: The results showed that the breeding practices were not significantly affected by gender (p greater than 0.05). Almost all the farmers in Madiga village were keeping indigenous breeds. The results indicated that the majority of the
farmers were improving their indigenous chickens mainly by pure breeding. The most common trait preferences of farmers in breeding cocks were body size, mating ability and growth rate while in breeding hens they were mothering ability, hatchability and growth rate. This study indicated that pure breeding, culling and both controlled and uncontrolled mating system were the most common breeding practices in Madiga village. This study might help to attract animal scientists to develop a multipurpose chicken breed that will express the traits preferred by farmers under village production environment and promote chicken production and food security as a result.
Silage Quality, Nutrient Content and Relative Feed Value of Urea and Molasses Added Sweet Maize [Zea mays (L.) saccharata Sturt.] Silage
Authors: Yildiz Serhat
Published: October 2023

Background: This study was carried out to determine silage quality, nutrient content, relative feed value (RFV), fermentation parameters and Fleig scores of sweet maize [Zea mays (L.) saccharata Sturt.] without the cob ensiled with urea or molasses. Methods: Plant parts remaining from the sweet maize whose cobs were harvested were ensiled with the addition of 1% urea and 5-10% molasses. In the liquid samples collected from the silages, pH values, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) and volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations were measured and the silage samples were subjected to crude nutrient analyses, RFV and Fleig score determination. Result: Significant differences were found among the groups in terms of their dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude ash (CA), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) values. The difference between silage groups was significant in terms of NH3 and VFA values. In the analyses of Fleig scores, physical parameters and RFV results, the groups were found significantly different except for Fleig scores. In parallel with the increase in the concentration of urea used in the silage groups, there were reductions in Fleig scores, physical parameters and RFV values, while their CP levels increased. The molasses that was added to the silages led to a reduction in their silage pH, NH3-N and butyric acid (BA) values and an increase in their lactic acid (LA) values. It was concluded that the additives used in this study contributed positively to the quality of the silages, all silages with additives were quality silages and they could be used as an alternative quality roughage resource in feeding ruminants.
Migration and socio-political orientations of religious and non-religious student youth
Authors: Kublitskaya Elena
Published: October 2023

Migration processes in the context of the expansion of world economic relations inevitably affect the main spheres of life of the entire world community. The emigration of the most active part of the indigenous population of Russia, predominantly educated and highly professional, is an acute problem, as it inevitably leads to risks to the national and geopolitical security of the state.
The growing uncontrolled migration process aimed at the outflow of the mobile indigenous population in the new Russian social reality actualizes the study of the motives of emigrant moods, socio-economic, socio-political orientations, socio-cultural positions, ethno-confessional traditions and customs, spiritual and moral values of youth and, first of all, highly educated part of the younger generation: students.
The article analyzes the materials of a sociological study conducted by the Institute for Demographic Research of the Federal Scientific Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences in 2022 among students in three constituent entities of the Russian Federation: Moscow, the Republic of Tyva and the Belgorod Region. The focus of the study is aimed at identifying the possible impact of religious and non-religious worldviews on the emigrant orientations of the young part of the Russian population. The set goal was solved with the help of sociological methods of building worldview groups (“religious”/“non-religious”) and typological groups (“settled”/projective “emigrants”). The sociological search was based on a comparative analysis of the assessments and positions of representatives of these groups in relation to religious, national, socio-economic and socio-political problems. The results of a sociological study show that religious ideas and traditions, spiritual and moral values directly related to them play a significant role in the patriotic and civic positions of student youth in relation to Russian society and the state.
Influence of the Lermontov tradition on the modern Iranian poet Shafiei Kadkani
Authors:   University of Tehran, Yahyapour Marzieh , Karimi-Motahhar Janolah , Shustova Svetlana V.
Published: October 2023

Man and nature are two inseparable elements of the world, and the unbreakable connection and coexistence between them is the origin of all kinds of literary works. From ancient times to the present day, we often see poems about nature both in Russian and Persian literature. Using the Natural objects and phenomena in the form of myths and symbols in literary works and giving them personality have various reasons, including political ones. Sometimes poems may be composed under the influence of a poet from another country. This influence can be seen in contemporary Iranian literature. Among the contemporary Iranian poets who are very familiar with the ideas and works of Russian poets and writers is the Iranian naturalist (пейзажист) poet Shafiei Kadkani. He composed his poem “Happy Journeys!”) based on Lermontov’s “The Rock” and “The black Clouds” poems. Both poets have used natural images such as plant (растение), breeze (ветерок), blossoms (цветения), rain (дождь), desert (пустыня), dust (пыль), horror desert (пустыня ужаса), rock / cliff (утес) and black clouds (тучи), which have a symbolic role. By comparing the poems, we can see that they are similar in terms of content and have the same message. And some of the symbols of Shafiei Kadkani are the same as the symbols of Lermontov, such as the desert, or they are chosen in terms of meaning very close to the symbols of Lermontov, such as “rock / cliff and milkvetch” or “small clouds and breeze”, as well as the dynamic movement of small clouds and breeze, which are the symbol of transition and change. Like Lermontov, Shafiei Kadkani also complains about the situation of his society, but symbols like “blossoms and rain” at the end of Shafiei Kadkani’s poem, unlike Lermontov’s poems, promise the morning of freedom, prosperity and transition, but with doubts.
In the shade of lovely birds, or About the “Farewell Ode” by Joseph Brodsky
Authors:   A.I. Herzen Russian State Pedagogical University, Gasselblat Olga A.
Published: October 2023

This article is another effort to analyze the “Farewell Ode” by Joseph Brodsky. The internal and external contexts of the creation of the poem are described. Some text levels are analyzed to recognize the author’s intention. The stanza of the poem refers to Russian and Polish syllabic poetry of the 18th century. The lexico-semantic composition of the poem allows us to see the influence of poet’s many great precursors, primarily Dante and Tsvetaeva. The ode is also a stylization of the genre of prayer, as indicated by many lexical means. Brodsky’s first great poem can rightly be called the most complex “symphonic work”, in which the poet reaches the heights of Christian forgiveness.
…I have been waiting all my life for a radical change in my lifestyle”: Correspondence of academician I.I. Meshchaninov with V.V. Vinogradov 1942–1958
Authors:   St. Petersburg Branch of the Archive of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Gruzdeva Elena N. , Nikitin Oleg V. ,   Petrozavodsk State University
Published: October 2023

The article is dedicated to the 140th anniversary of the birth of the outstanding Russian scientist, organizer of Soviet science, first academician-secretary of the Department of Literature and Language of the USSR Academy of Sciences, Hero of Socialist Labor I.I. Meshchaninov (1883–1967). It reflects little-known events in Russian linguistics of 1942–1958. The letters of the greatest linguists of the XX century — academician I.I. Meshchaninov and professor (later academician) V.V. Vinogradov are published for the first time. They set out the facts of the personal life of scientists and the activities of academic institutions during the evacuation and peacetime. The presented selection of epistolary materials tells about the work of V.V. Vinogradov in Tobolsk: an attempt to found there a Research institute for the study of languages, folklore, literature and history of the peoples of Siberia and I.I. Meshchaninov’s response to this idea, about a new book on lexis and phraseology, conveys the scientist’s anxiety about his wife’s Moscow apartment, etc. The prospects of V.V. Vinogradov’s relocation to other cities and his restoration in the staff of the Institute of Language and Thinking of the USSR Academy of Sciences are discussed. Judging by the events described, I.I. Meshchaninov took a lively part in the fate of a disgraced colleague and tried to help him overcome hardships. The letters of the 1950s describe events related to the preparation for the elections of academicians and corresponding members of the USSR Academy of Sciences. The epistolary also includes the names of many famous philologists whose destinies were somehow connected with the personality of I.I. Meshchaninov: S.P. Obnorsky, V.F. Shishmaryov, D.V. Bubrikh, A.V. Mirtov, etc. The published documents are of interest to historians of Soviet linguistics, linguoculturologists, sociolinguists. The letters reveal the rare circumstances of the work of research teams in a difficult time for the country, show linguists from an unusual side, report new biographical details, filling in the gaps in the historiography of the XX century. The article focuses the attention of modern researchers on the need to study archival data and introduce original materials into the theory and practice of general linguistics in order to recreate the annals of Russian science.
Prevalence and Infestation of Ectoparasite in Dabung Ducks in Some Districts in Bangkalan Madura
Authors: Prawasa Ramadhiniyanti Putri Alif , Nunuk Dyah Retno Lastuti  , Dadik Raharjo  , Poedji Hastutiek  , Endang Suprihati  , Dian Ayu Permatasari
Published: October 2023

Identify the type of ectoparasite prevalence and infestation pattern of ectoparasite on Dabung duck in Bangkalan Madura regency. This research conducted from February to April 2022 with sample of 55 tails and identified in parasitology laboratory of the Veterinary Parasitology Division, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Airlangga University, Surabaya with the permanent mounting method without coloring. This research was a descriptive research, study survey, and cross sectional study analytical. The type of ectoparasite that attacked Dabung duck in Geger subdistrict, Dabung village and Galis subdistrict, Pekaan Dajah village were Menacanthus stramineus, Menopon gallinae, Lipeurus caponis with a prevalence of 100% from a sample 55 tails of Dabung duck. The analysis results of infestation pattern of ectoparasite infestation on Dabung ducks used correspondence text on the body regions of Dabung ducks in Geger subdistrict, Dabung village showed that M. stramineus ticks on chest region, M. gallinae in head neck region and L. caponis in wing region. Burneh subdistrict, Burneh village founded M. stramineus ticks in abdomen region, M. gallinae in head-neck region, and L. caponis in wing region. Galis subdistrict, Pakaan Dajah village showed that M stramineus lice in head-neck region, L. caponis in wing region and M. gallinae in spine region.
SPATIAL ANALYSIS OF DENGUE HEMORRHAGIC FEVER IN EAST MANGGARAI, INDONESIA: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Siga Wilibaldus Julian , Astutik Erni , Ximenes Yohanes
Published: October 2023

Background: East Manggarai is one of the District in East Nusa Tenggara Province with a high transmission area and a high number of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever cases. Spatial analysis can provide spatial information related to the distribution pattern of DHF. Purpose: To spatially analyze the cases of DHF in East Manggarai District in 2021. Methods: This study used a descriptive survey method with a case study design sampling technique, Purposive sampling approach used a sample size of 103 cases. Data processing and spatial data analysis use Quantum Geographic Information Systems software with Nearest Neighbor Analysis and buffer analysis to describe the distribution of cases based on population density, House Index, Container Index, and Buffer Zone. Results: Spatial analysis using QGIS showed that the Nearest Neighbor Index was 0.323 < 1, and the CI value was 34.7, the HI value was 54 while the buffer zone showed the tendency for dengue transmission to occur in most cases within a radius of 100 meters.  Conclusion: The pattern of DHF transmission is clustered, the sub-districts of Borong, Rana Mese, and Komba became the sources of DHF transmission where Container Index and House Index were classified as high categories, and population density was classified as high and low categories. Preventive action such as eliminating mosquito breeding areas were essential.
Sensory identity of wine from the ancient and almost forgotten grape variety Timorasso
Authors: Laureati Monica , Appiani Marta , Cattaneo Camilla , Rabitti Noemi Sofia , Verveur Zoe , Bergaglio Stefano , Valentin Dominique
Published: October 2023

Over the last few decades, there has been a gradual decrease in natural biodiversity, which is leading to the standardisation of wine products. Minor grape varieties possess key traits for producing wines with a specific territorial identity and they contribute to increasing biodiversity. Timorasso is an ancient Italian white grape variety native to the province of Alessandria in the Piedmont region. It fell into oblivion for a period of time due to the advent of phylloxera at the end of the 1800s and the abandonment of rural areas, which almost led to the extinction of this grapevine. This study aimed to identify the sensory properties that characterise Timorasso wine from different producers and production areas and to investigate the diversity of the sensory space. Sixteen Timorasso wines from the 2018 vintage and were evaluated for sensory description by a panel of nine semi-trained judges using the RATA method. The Timorasso wine was found to have a complex aromatic profile spanning fruity (citrus, tropical fruits, tree-fruit and dried/baked fruit), floral, vegetative, balsamic, honey and fuel/petroleum. The multiple factor analysis clearly differentiated wines with fruity notes from those with balsamic, vegetative and fuel/petroleum aromas. The hierarchical cluster analysis evidenced three main clusters. Cluster 1 comprised wines with pale-yellow colour and fruity-related aromas, low sourness, body and alcohol sensations. Cluster 2 comprised wines with dark yellow colour, low sourness, and high intensities of raisin and fuel aromas, probably due to specific oenological practices, such as grape maceration. Cluster 3 comprised wines with high sourness and vegetative odour. The results provide for the first time a sensory map of a grapevine that was almost forgotten until a few decades ago, but which is now considered to be among the most promising white wines on the Italian market.
L’élevage porcin en systèmes alternatifs : atouts et défis en termes de bien-être animal, biosécurité, santé animale et sécurité sanitaire
Authors: DELSART Maxime , POL Françoise , DUFOUR Barbara , ROSE Nicolas , FABLET Christelle
Published: October 2023

En production porcine, le système en bâtiment fermé avec un sol en caillebotis est largement dominant actuellement. Toutefois, ce type d’élevage fait l’objet de controverse, une part croissante des citoyens exprimant par exemple le souhait d’un accès à l’extérieur pour les animaux d’élevage afin d’améliorer leur bien-être. Dans ce contexte se développent des systèmes d’élevages alternatifs au système d’élevage dominant. Parmi ces élevages alternatifs on trouve des élevages dans lesquels les animaux sont élevés sur litière et des élevages proposant à leurs animaux un accès plein-air. S’ils sont plébiscités par les citoyens, ces élevages alternatifs ne sont toutefois pas sans présenter de points critiques. Pour cette synthèse un point a été réalisé sur les connaissances actuelles concernant le bien-être, la biosécurité, la santé des animaux et la santé publique vétérinaire dans les élevages alternatifs. D’une façon générale, ces élevages donnent aux animaux la possibilité d’exprimer une gamme de comportements plus large qu’en bâtiment et les animaux élevés dans ces élevages semblent moins sensibles aux maladies respiratoires. Toutefois, la gestion de l’alimentation, de l’abreuvement, des températures et des prédateurs est souvent plus délicate en élevages de type plein-air. De plus, les mesures de biosécurité semblent plus difficiles à appliquer et observer que dans les élevages conventionnels, notamment dans les élevages plein-air. La gestion des écrasements de porcelets en maternité est également un véritable défi, au même titre que la gestion du parasitisme. En outre, la prévalence plus élevée de nombreux agents pathogènes zoonotiques dans ces élevages peut représenter un risque pour la santé humaine.
Oral Health Promotion Model Implemented in Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, Croatia
Authors: Bakarcic Danko , Vlah Nevenka , Ivancic Jokic Natasa , Jankovic Suzana , Dragas Zubalj Natasa , Kresina Sandro , Mohoric Silvia , Grzic Renata , Glibotic Kresina Helena
Published: October 2023

Background and objective: Research shows that 60–90% of school children have caries, representing a serious public health issue. Here, we present a model of oral health promotion that has been conducted in the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County (PGC), Croatia, from 2008 to 2019. We assessed the oral status of first and fifth grade elementary students and determined the sustainability and influence of our model on the status and behavior regarding the children’s oral status. Additionally, during the observed period, promotional and preventative activities aiming to improve oral health were conducted. Since 2014, the Program has begun to be continuously, comprehensively, and systematically introduced into preschools as well.
Material and methods: We assessed the number of children with caries by analyzing the changes in the decayed, missing, and filled teeth for primary teeth (dmft)/decayed, missing, and filled teeth for permanent teeth (DMFT) index mean during the observed period.
Results: From 2008 to 2019 we assessed 44422 children in the PGC (21714 first grade and 22708 fifth grade students). The average response rate throughout the Program has been 83%. We have noted a dmft/DMFT index decrease from 4,66 to 3,73 (first graders) and from 2,50 to 1,00 (fifth graders).
Conclusions: The Program has improved the behavior and oral health of children; stakeholders from various professions have been included, such as health visitors, school medicine teams, and pediatricians, avoiding additional financial expenses, increasing the number of children in care, and proving the sustainability of our oral health improvement model.
Positive Parenting and Sociodemographic Factors Related to the Development of Chilean Children Born to Adolescent Mothers
Authors: Léniz-Maturana Laura , Vilaseca Rosa , Leiva David , Gallardo-Rodríguez Rodrigo
Published: October 2023

The current study aimed to examine the relationship between demographic variables within the family context and parenting behaviors among adolescent mothers (including affection, responsiveness, encouragement, and teaching). These factors were correlated with communication, problem-solving abilities, and personal-social development in typically developing infants. The study included a sample of 79 Chilean adolescent mother-child dyads with children aged 10 to 24 months. Communication, problem-solving, and personal-social development were assessed using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire-3, along with a demographic information questionnaire. Parenting behaviors (affection, responsiveness, encouragement, and teaching) were observed using the Spanish version of Parenting Interactions with Children: Checklist of Observations Linked to Outcomes. The findings indicated that employed mothers and those who had not dropped out of school had children with better problem-solving skills. Additionally, children residing with their fathers and female children exhibited superior performance in communication, problem-solving, and personal-social development. Maternal responsiveness was associated with communication and problem-solving, while maternal encouragement was linked to improved problem-solving skills. Maternal teaching was connected to communication, problem-solving, and personal-social development. The study emphasized the significance of parenting and sociodemographic factors among adolescent mothers in influencing their children's development.
Development of Driver State Monitoring System based on Multi-Sensor Data Fusion
Authors: Park Sunhong , You Jongwon
Published: October 2023

A stable driver state is essential in the process of manually transition control, which inevitably occurs in Level 3 automated driving situations. To this end, this paper proposed a CNN algorithm-based driver state monitoring system that uses multi-sensor data such as driver's face image, biometric information, and vehicle behavior information as input. This system calculates the probability of drowsiness for each of the four time periods using a convolutional neural network (CNN) based on ToF camera-based eye blinking, ECG information (pulse rate) embedded in the steering wheel, and vehicle information (steering angle data). In order to build a reliable and high-quality training dataset (Ground Truth) for the CNN algorithm, a baseline was established by matching the driver's face image with the electrocardiogram (ECG) and electroencephalogram (EEG) changes in the drowsy and normal states. In a simulation test of the proposed CNN algorithm using more than 20,000 driver image data acquired using a driving simulator, the TNR was 94.8% and the accuracy was 94.2%. Our proposed method is expected to minimize human errors that may occur when switching control by monitoring inappropriate driver state (drowsiness) in real time.
Optimization of a tree pit as a Blue-Green Infrastructure object
Authors: Novak Lukas , Kabelkova Ivana , Hora David , Stransky David
Published: October 2023

Key elements of Blue-Green Infrastructure are vegetation and stormwater storage. A combination of a bioretention cell with an underlying trench (BC-T) serving as a tree pit is often used in dense urban environments. An adequate ratio of drained area to bioretention cell area is a crucial design parameter. The ratio is derived from the hydrological balance; however, input data are often difficult to obtain or uncertain. The goal is to study the sensitivity of such data (tree water uptake and water holding capacities of soil filter and trench substrate) in the BC-T design. Sensitivity analysis is performed for the setup of a BC-T used in Prague, Czech Republic. A 10-year rainfall series (1 hour resolution) is used as an input. Data that are subject to the sensitivity analysis are changed for different trench exfiltration rates, and the effect on the size of the drained area is studied. At low trench exfiltration rates (1.8 mm.h-1), both the water holding capacity of the trench substrate and potential tree water uptake have a significant influence (more than a 20% change in the size of the drained area) and cannot be neglected. At good exfiltration rates (more than 18 mm.h-1) or when the trench is equipped with an underdrain, all studied parameters can be neglected. However, it is recommended to reduce the size of the drained area by 10-20%.
Using Visual Patient to Show Vital Sign Predictions, a Computer-Based Mixed Quantitative and Qualitative Simulation Study
Authors: Malorgio Amos , Henckert David , Schweiger Giovanna , Braun Julia , Zacharowski Kai , Raimann Florian J. , Piekarski Florian , Meybohm Patrick , Hottenrott Sebastian , Froehlich Corinna , Spahn Donat R. , Nöthiger Christoph B , Tscholl David W. , Roche Tadzio R.
Published: October 2023

Background:
Machine learning can analyze vast amounts of data and make predictions for events in the future. Our group created machine learning models for vital sign predictions. To transport the information of these predictions without numbers and numerical values and make them easily usable for human caregivers, we aimed to integrate them into the Philips Visual-Patient-avatar, an avatar-based visualization of patient monitoring.
Methods:
We conducted a computer-based simulation study with 70 participants in three European university hospitals. We validated the vital sign prediction visualizations by testing their identification by anesthesiologists and intensivists. Each prediction visualization consisted of a condition (e.g., blood pressure low) and an urgency (a visual indication of the timespan in which the condition is expected to occur). To obtain qualitative user feedback, we also conducted standardised interviews and derived statements that participants later rated in an online survey.
Results:
The mixed logistic regression model showed 77.9% (95%CI 73.2-82.0%) correct identification of prediction visualizations (i.e. condition and urgency both correctly identified) and 93.8% (95%CI 93.7-93.8%) for conditions only (i.e. without considering urgencies). Forty-nine of 70 participants completed the online survey. The online survey participants agreed that the prediction visualizations were fun to use (32/49, 65.3%), and that they could imagine working with them in the future (30/49, 61.2%). They also agreed that identifying the urgencies was difficult (32/49, 65.3%).
Conclusions:
This study found that care providers correctly identified >90% of the conditions (i.e. without considering urgencies). The accuracy of identification decreased when considering urgencies in addition to conditions. Therefore, in future development of the technology, we will focus on either only displaying conditions (without urgencies) or improve the visualizations of urgency to enhance usability for human users.
Metabarcoding Markers for Identifying Zooplankton and Ichthyoplankton Communities to Species in the Salish Sea: Morphological Comparisons and Rare, Threatened or Invasive Species
Authors: Stepien Carol A. , Schultz Haila K. , McAllister Sean M , Norton Emily L , Keister Julie E.
Published: October 2023

Zooplankton and ichthyoplankton community assessments depend on species diagnostics, yet morphological identifications are time consuming, require taxonomic expertise, and are hampered by lack of diagnostic characters –particularly for larval stages. Metabarcoding can identify multiple species in communities from short DNA sequences in comparison to reference databases. To evaluate species resolution across phylogenetic groups and food webs of zooplankton and ichthyoplankton, we compare five metabarcode mitochondrial (mt)DNA markers from gene regions of (a) cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, (b) cytochrome b, (c) 16S ribosomal RNA, and (d) 12S ribosomal RNA for DNA extracted from net tows in the Northeastern Pacific Ocean’s Salish Sea across seven sites and two seasons. Species resolved by metabarcoding are compared to invertebrate morphological identifications and biomass estimates. Results indicate that species resolution for different zooplankton and ichthyoplankton taxa can markedly vary among gene regions and markers –and in comparison to morphological identifications. Thus, researchers seeking “universal” metabarcoding should take caution that several markers and gene regions likely will be needed; all will miss some taxa and yield incomplete overlap. Species resolution requires careful attention to taxon marker selection and coverage in reference sequence repositories. In summary, combined multi-marker metabarcode and morphological approaches improve broadscale zooplankton diagnostics.
The Left Atrial Appendage and Atrial Fibrillation – A Contemporary Review
Authors: Sulague Ralf Martz , Whitham Tarik , Danganan Lester Mico Lopez , Effiom Victory , Candelario Katherine , Latif Nida , Hameed Irbaz
Published: October 2023

In patients with atrial fibrillation, the left atrial appendage may serve as the site of thrombus formation due to stasis that occurs within the appendage because of its shape and trabeculations. Although thrombus formation can be reduced with anticoagulants, this may be contraindicated in some patients. The need for a better alternative treatment prompted study of left atrial appendage occlusion for thromboembolism prophylaxis. Due to this, procedures that excise or occlude the left atrial appendage have gained attention because of its ability to prevent thromboembolic events. This article provides a comprehensive review of the left atrial appendage and its associated procedures' clinical utility.
Action of Viscus Album L. on Diabetes and Hypertension in the Veterinary Field
Authors: Pelini Paolo
Published: October 2023

Viscum album L., also known as “Mistletoe”, is a hemiparasitic plant native to the European continent that grows on various host trees. This plant contains a wide variety of active compounds that can be used for treat various diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, as an anti- inflammatory and antioxidant. However, it is most indicated in human medicine for the adjuvant treatment of cancer patients. Both for its properties directed against neoplastic cells and for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In Veterinary Medicine, I am very few studies are recorded for animals, although formulations are available for commercial use in oral and injectable form, mostly for homeopathic use. Many studies have been conducted on a large scale by groups of independent researchers and doctors in several countries, such as Switzerland, Germany and Brazil. Therefore, this review aimed to collect data on the use of Viscum album in Veterinary Medicine in order to encourage research in this sector not only in oncological diseases but in other directions in which Viscum can find use as an anti-pretensive and anti-diabetic agent. Introduction: Lectins, flavonoids, phenols such as phenylpropanoids, coumarins, sterols, lignans, terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, alkaloids, fatty acids and viscotoxins are among the main active ingredients present in the phytocomplexes of the Viscum album plant. In particular, Attention should be given to specific oligoproteins in consideration of their activity biological [1]. present in The foliage and fruits of V. album, as in other related species, contain low-weight proteins molecular type of thionin, called viscotoxins, as well as characteristic lectins, called viscolectins, both can contribute to its system defense and can be found in extracts and related products. These classes of Viscum microproteins have received considerable attention due to their contribution to effects cytotoxics and immunostimulants of mistletoe extracts used in medicine, as discussed later, including their mechanism of action [ 2–3] viscotoxins can increase the number of cells circulating naturalkillers and consequently improve the response host antitumor immunity [ 8]. Likewise, the a viscotoxin has an effective immunomodulatory impact on human and animal granulocytes [ 9, 10] and also acts on cellular apoptosis [11]. The cytotoxic action of viscotoxin is comparable to that of conventional chemotherapeutic agents [ 12].
Na Promoted FeZn@SiO2-C Catalysts for Sustainable Production of Low Olefins by CO2 Hydrogenation
Authors: Ni Zhijiang , Cai Mingxing , Zhong Shiyu , Chen Xiaoyu , Shen Hanyu , Su Lin
Published: October 2023

FeZnNa@SiO2-C catalyst with graphitized carbon (GC) modified mesoporous SiO2 support metal nanoparticles was prepared by sol-gel method. The effect of adding metal Na and Zn promoters as a dispersion on the CO2 hydrogenation to low olefins was systematically studied. The results showed that Zn-Na, as a combination, promoted the absorption of CO2 and improved the conversion rate of CO2. Na as an alkaline substance can improve the absorption of more acidic CO2, improving the conversion rate of CO2 to 59.03%. Meanwhiles, addition of secondary metal Zn into Fe-based catalysts to form a surface alloy could alter the adsorption of CO2 and the activation of C-O bonds, inhibit the subsequent hydrogenation of olefins to paraffins, facilitate the reduction of Fe2O3 and the formation of active Fe5C2 species. From TEM and XRD, the formation of active Fe5C2 species was found, the selectivity of the target product was 41.07%. The deep hydrogenation of olefins is inhibited, by inhibiting their deep hydrogenations, the STY of C2=-C4= was raised again, up to 0.0436. However, the corresponding STY does not increase infinitely with the increase of Na content, and when the Na content to 6.4%, which can be shown higher CO2 hydrogenation catalytic performance. Compared with Fe@SiO2-C catalyst, Na and Zn promoted Fe-based catalysts prepared by modified sol-gel method, can be used directly for highly efficient CO2 hydrogenation to low olefins and thus will be more promising in the future.
Synthetic Model of the Mucosa for Oral Penetration Studies
Authors: Alonso Cristina , Martí Meritxell , Ramos Anderson , Calpena Ana Cristina , Clares-Naveros Beatriz , Coderch Luisa
Published: October 2023

This work presents the possibility of using a synthetic membrane for pretracing mucosal penetration studies. The permeability of two types of membranes, porcine oral mucosa and a synthetic Nuclepore membrane, to water was compared. Moreover, the water permeability of membranes modified with waterproofing formulations was measured to study their ability to protect against the penetration of viruses, toxins, etc. A very good correlation was obtained between the transmucosal water loss (TMWL) values of the artificial membrane and the mucosa. These results support the possible use of this synthetic membrane in the screening of the water permeability of formulations. In addition, studies of the permeation of different actives, drugs and biocides through the two membranes were carried out, and these results were compared with their skin permeation data. The synthetic membrane does not seem to discern between compounds in terms of permeability, which could be due to the lack of lipids in the composition of this synthetic membrane. Therefore, Nuclepore alone cannot be used as a model for the release of actives. Additionally, the permeation of caffeine through intact or modified membranes incorporating waterproofing formulations was also studied. In this case, similar permeation profiles through the synthetic membrane and mucosa were found. The results from these assays should lend support to the use of this synthetic membrane when screening formulations to be applied in oral penetration studies.
Constructing the Bounds for Neural Network Training Using Grammatical Evolution
Authors: Tsoulos Ioannis G. , Tzallas Alexandros , Karvounis Evangelos
Published: October 2023

Artificial neural networks are widely established models of computational intelligence that have been tested for effectiveness in a variety of real-world applications. These models require fitting a set of parameters through the use of some optimization technique. However, an issue that researchers often face is finding an efficient range of values for the parameters of the artificial neural network. This paper proposes an innovative technique of generating a promising range of values for the parameters of the artificial neural network. Finding the value field is done by a series of rules for partitioning the original set of values or expanding it, which rules are generated using Grammatical Evolution. After finding a promising interval of values, any optimization technique such as a genetic algorithm can be used to train the artificial neural network on that interval of values. The new technique was tested on a wide range of problems from the relevant literature and the results were extremely promising.
The Role of ChatGPT in the Advancement of Diagnosis, Management, and Prognosis of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease
Authors: Chlorogiannis David-Dimitris , Apostolos Anastasios , Chlorogiannis Anargyros , Palaiodimos Leonidas , Giannakoulas George , Pargaonkar Sumant , Xesfingi Sofia , Kokkinidis Damianos G.
Published: October 2023

Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease incidence has risen mainly due to poor control of preventable risk factors and still constitutes a significant financial and health burden worldwide. ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence language-based model developed by OpenAI. Due to the model’s unique cognitive capabilities beyond data processing and the production of high-quality text, there has been a surge of research interest concerning its role in the scientific community and contemporary clinical practice. To fully exploit ChatGPT's potential benefits and reduce its possi-ble misuse, extreme caution must be taken to ensure its implications ethically and equitably. In this article, we explore the language model's possible applications and limitations while empha-sizing its potential value for diagnosing, managing, and prognosis cardiovascular and cerebro-vascular disease.
Elucidating the Role of MLL1 nsSNPs: Structural and Functional Alterations and Their Contribution to Hematological Malignancies Susceptibility
Authors: Al-nakhle Hakeemah H , Yagoub Hind S , Alrehaili Rahaf Y , Shaqroon Ola A , Khan Minna K , Alsharif Ghaidaa S
Published: October 2023

The MLL1 gene located on chromosome 11q23, is crucial for histone lysine-specific methylation and is frequently implicated in various leukemia types. Despite prior in silico investigations into non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) associated with leukemia in the MLL1 gene, there is a dearth of comprehensive studies evaluating their impact on the protein's structure, function, and post-translational modifications. Addressing this, our study screened 2049 nsSNPs from the dbSNP database, identifying 62 high-risk variants. A thorough domain analysis revealed that these nsSNPs are distributed across seven domains of the MLL1 protein, potentially affecting their functions. Our conservation analysis highlighted 31 nsSNPs as deleterious, suggesting their potential effects on protein stability and function. Furthermore, utilizing the MutPred2 tool, we identified mutations affecting metal-binding, protein loop structures, and post-translational modifications, which could alter the MLL1 protein's native functionality. Interaction network analysis underscored the role of MLL1 in hematopoietic cell development, implying that mutations may influence hematological malignancies. Additionally, a subset of non-coding SNPs was found to possess regulatory capabilities, potentially affecting gene expression and chromatin modification. Most significantly, using CScape and CScape-somatic tools, four nsSNPs were predicted to be oncogenic, with two classified as cancer drivers, underscoring their potential role in leukemia development. The oncogenic nsSNP, D2724G, located between the FY-rich N and FY-rich C domain of the MLL1 protein, has raised significant interest due to its potential impact on proteolytic cleavage. Predictive analyses, such as those by Mutpred2, suggest a loss of cleavage at D2724 caused by this mutation, potentially affecting the formation of essential MLL1 fragments, p320 and p180. These fragments play a crucial role in creating a stable multiprotein complex that localizes to a specific subnuclear region. Therefore, mutations like D2724G can potentially alter gene expression patterns, influencing cellular behavior and possibly fostering a cancer-prone environment. In conclusion, our research provides an in-depth assessment of the effects of nsSNPs in the MLL1 gene on leukemia, offering potential avenues for personalized treatment strategies, early detection, prognosis, and a better understanding of hematological malignancy genesis.
Focusing on Gender and Age Information as Lens for Gene Expression Data: Application to Dyslipidemia-based Atherosclerosis Data
Authors: Guzzi Pietro Hiram , Pedace Elisabetta , Veltri Pierangelo
Published: October 2023

Dyslipidemia (Dys) is a disease characterised by abnormally high levels of lipids in the 1
blood. It causes the deposits of lipids on the arterial wall, leading to the insurgence of atherosclerosis, 2
i.e. the increased thickness of arterial walls, which finally increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. 3
Dyslipidemia is as comorbidity of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). A set of genes has been associated 4
with dyslipidemia, but examining the regulation of such genes in age and sex is still an open research 5
field. In this study, starting from publicly available databases, we select genes associated with 6
dyslipidemia and we analyse their basal level changes by means of age and sex. Also studying the 7
networks associated to the genes, we identify the rewiring changes showing that there exists a set of 8
genes whose expression changes with age in: artery tibial, artery aorta and blood. Finally, we report 9
about changes associated to gender atributes in the extracted data
Biological Specimen Banking as A Time Capsule to Explore the Temporal Dynamics of Norovirus Epidemiology
Authors: Bonura Floriana , Filizzolo Chiara , Pizzo Mariangela , Sanfilippo Giuseppa Luisa , Cacioppo Federica , Palazzotto Emilia , Di Bernardo Francesca , Collura Antonina , Martella Vito , De Grazia Simona , Giammanco Giovanni Maurizio
Published: October 2023

Norovirus (NoV) is recognised as a major cause of epidemic and sporadic acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in all age groups. Information on the genetic diversity of the NoVs circulating in the 1980s and 1990s, before the development and adoption of dedicated molecular assays, is limited compared to the last decades. In the period 1986-2020, uninterrupted viral surveillance was conducted in symptomatic children hospitalized for AGE in Palermo, Italy, providing a unique time capsule for exploring the epidemiological and evolutionary dynamics of enteric viruses. In this 35-year long time span NoVs of genogroup II (GII) were detected in 15.6% of AGE requiring hospitalization, whilst GI NoVs in 1.4%. Overall, the predominant NoV capsid (Cap) genotype was GII.4 (60.8%), with temporal replacement of the GII.4 Cap variants and associated polymerase (Pol) types. The chronology of emergence and circulation of the different GII.4 variants were consistent with the data available in literature. Also, for GII.3 and GII.2 NoVs the circulation of different lineages/strains, differing in either the Cap or Pol genes or in both, was observed. This long-term study revealed the ability of NoVs to modify continuously and rapidly their genomic makeup and highlights the importance of surveillance activities for vaccine design.
DISCRIMINACIÓN DE PRECIOS Y BIG DATA
Authors: Franco Mongua Javier Francisco , Sanabria-Moyano Jesús E. , Lombana Uribe Allan Maurice
Published: October 2023

This document makes a presentation of what the abuse of the dominant position implies for the antitrust right, and how companies that have this position in a market, with the help of Big Data, can establish behaviors of fixing of perfect prices or in the first degree and how this conduct can injure competition and affect consumers and finally know if the Colombian standard is prepared to face these situations. To this end, the text starts with a description of what price fixing and discrimination means in the economic and legal literature; then what does the dominant position mean and how the competition authorities manage to determine if a company has this position and an analysis of the Colombian norm and the decisions issued by the Superintendency of Industry and Commerce in the matter of discrimination abuses, so that can conclude which is the approach with which the authority has resolved these types of cases.