bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrative Analysis of Homologous Recombination Repair Patterns Unveils Prognostic Signatures and Immunotherapeutic Insights in Breast Cancer
Authors: Li Yan-Shuang , Jiang Hong-Chuan
Published: January 2024

Background: Globally, breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of female death and morbidity. Homologous recombination repair (HRR) is critical in BC. However, the prognostic role and immunotherapy response of HRR in BC remains to be clarified.
Methods: Firstly, we identified HRR types in BC samples from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset (GSE42568) based on 65 HRR genes (HRRGs). A differentially expressed genes (DEGs) list for different HRR types was generated. Then, the influences of gene sets composed of these DEGs on biological pathways and BC prognosis were explored. Next, we identified gene clusters based on gene sets composed of DEGs. Genes associated with prognosis for DEGs were identified using univariate Cox regression. Finally, the HRR score was constructed based on genes associated with prognosis. We analyzed how HRR score correlates with tumor mutation burden (TMB), immune cell infiltration (ICI), and immunotherapy response.
Results: Three HRR clusters were discovered. HRR subtype A demonstrated decreased infiltration and a high number of immunosuppressive cells with a poor prognosis. DEGs among various HRR types were predominantly enriched in cell cycle and genomic stability-related pathways. The prognostic model based on sixteen DEGs accurately predicted BC prognosis. The HRRGs were differentially expressed in three DEGs clusters. TMB, ICI, and immunotherapy responses differed significantly between the high and low HRR groups (HSG, LSG). The HSG was distinguished by a high degree of ICI and low TMB. LSG had a better response to anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA4 combination therapy.
Conclusion: This work revealed that HRR patterns would contribute to predicting prognosis and immunotherapy response in BC, which may benefit patients.
Perceived barriers and opportunities of providing quality family planning services among Palestinian midwives, physicians and nurses in the West Bank: A qualitative study Authors’ details
Authors: Hassan ٍDr. Sahar , Masri Hadeel , Sawalha Israa , Mortensen Berit
Published: January 2024

Background:
Despite advancements in family planning (FP) services and increased access, several barriers persist in the Occupied Palestinian territory (oPt), blocking women’s access to suitable, high-quality and equitable FP services. The aim of this study was to explore knowledge and training regarding contraception among midwives, physicians and nurses engaged in providing FP services. Furthermore, it seeks to understand how healthcare providers perceive their abilities, barriers and opportunities in providing good quality FP services.
Methods:
A qualitative study was undertaken from August to September 2022 in seven Primary Health Care (PHC) clinics distributed in three governorates and operating under the Palestinian Ministry of Health (MoH) in the West Bank, oPt. Semi-structured, in-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted with 13 health providers, using an interview guide in Arabic language. Transcripts were subsequently analyzed using the six phases of reflexive thematic analysis.
Results:
FP services face various challenges, including shortages in resources such as staff, supplies, infrastructures and FP methods. Midwives possess significant potentials to offer accessible, high-quality, efficient and equitable FP services, yet, their capacities remain underutilized, representing a missed opportunity for a country like Palestine. The study highlighted the landscape guide for quality FP services and the need for an updated continuous education and training, updated standardized guidelines and protocols and supportive supervision are needed across all levels of healthcare providers. Finally, providers reported a wide range of structural barriers to FP services.
Conclusions:
It is crucial to meticulously address both community-related and health system factors to enhance the fulfillment of FP needs and reduce unintended and closely spaced pregnancies. Policymakers should invest in the development of a comprehensive and holistic approach to FP services. This includes formulating supportive policies, capacity building of human resources and maintaining security of FP commodities.
Reliability, Validity and Measurement Invariance of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale-8 in Chinese Adolescents
Authors: Zhang Yali , Bian Yuewen , Zhang Fuhai
Published: January 2024

Objective At present, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale-8 (DERS-8) has not been tested in China, which limits cross-cultural research. Therefore, this study intends to test its reliability, validity and measurement invariance in Chinese adolescents.
Methods 424 participants were invited to complete the DERS-8 for the first time. In the second test, 586 participants filled in the DERS-8, General Anxiety Disorder Scale, Depression Scale and Emotion Regulation Scale. The interval between the two measurements was one month, and 104 adolescents participated in two measurements.
Results Each item of the DERS-8 had a good discrimination. Both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the one-factor model of the scale, and the fitness indicators were χ2/df=4.05，RMSEA=0.07，CFI=0.98，TLI=0.97. The internal consistency reliability coefficient, split-half reliability coefficient and test-retest reliability coefficient of the scale were 0.90、0.87and 0.66 respectively. The total score of DERS-8 was positively correlated with anxiety (r = 0.43, p < 0.01), depression (r = 0.41, p < 0.01), as well as negatively correlated with expression inhibition (r =﹣0.58, p < 0.01) and cognitive reappraisal (r =﹣0.61, p < 0.01). Furthermore, the multi-group CFA showed that the configural, metric, scalar, and strict invariances of the DERS-8 across gender were all acceptable.
Conclusion The Chinese version of DERS-8 meets the measurement standards and could be used to measure the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation in Chinese adolescents.
Ancient DNA study provides clues to leprosy susceptibility in medieval Europe
Authors: Bonczarowska Joanna H. , Caliebe Amke , Ӧzer Onur , Silva Nicolas da , Mejía Nicolás Mendoza , Pedersen Dorthe Dangvard , Boldsen Jesper , Larsen Lars Agersnap , Seeberg Lone , Søvsø Morten , Rieger Dirk , Prescher Andreas , Krause-Kyora Ben , Nebel Almut
Published: January 2024

Background
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae) that reached an epidemic scale in the Middle Ages. Nowadays, the disease is absent in Europe and host genetic influences have been considered as a contributing factor to leprosy disappearance. In this study, a case-control association analysis between multiple human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles and leprosy was performed in a medieval European population for the first time. The sample comprised 293 medieval individuals from 18 archaeological sites in Denmark (N = 16) and Germany (N = 2).
Results
Our results indicate that HLA-B*38 was associated with leprosy risk. Furthermore, we detected three novel variants that were possibly involved in leprosy susceptibility (HLA-A*23, DRB1*13 and DPB1*452). Interestingly, we noted a subtle temporal change in frequency for several alleles previously associated with infectious diseases, inflammatory disorders and cancer in present-day populations.
Conclusions
This study demonstrates the potential of ancient DNA in the identification of genetic variants involved in predisposition to diseases that are no longer present in Europe but remain endemic elsewhere. Although it is difficult to pinpoint the reason behind the temporal frequency shift, past epidemics of infectious diseases have likely influenced the HLA pool in present-day Europe.
Implementing Automatic Microservices Detection in Business Processes Using Association Rules
Authors: Mohamed DAOUD , Sabri Abdelouahed , Benslimane Djamal , Zougari Soundous , Zougari Ayoub
Published: January 2024

Microservice-oriented architectures are increasingly becoming the preferred architectural style over monolithic systems, both in academic research and industrial applications. This shift is largely due to microservices' ability to deconstruct large, monolithic applications into smaller, independent, highly cohesive, and loosely connected services.However, the process of identifying appropriate microservices is a significant challenge, which, if not addressed adequately, could hinder the effectiveness and benefits of transitioning to this architectural style. In this paper, we introduce an innovative method based on association rules to automate the identification of microservices within a business process. This technique leverages association analysis to uncover latent correlations among the attributes of various activities. Activities sharing similar attributes are then grouped into the same microservice categories. To validate and demonstrate the practicality of our method, we conduct a case study focusing on a bicycle rental system.
Exploring the Nexus of Sustainable Entrepreneurship: A Qualitative Inquiry into the Interplay of Inflation, Service Quality, and Technology Adoption in Business Processes within the TOE Framework
Authors: Cooper Mason , Bennett Noah , Hayes Isabella
Published: January 2024

This qualitative inquiry delves into the intersection of sustainable entrepreneurship, exploring the interplay among inflation, service quality, and technology adoption within the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework. The primary objective is to gain profound insights into the adaptive strategies employed by entrepreneurs, illuminating their commitment to sustainability amidst economic uncertainties. In adopting a qualitative research design, the study employed semi-structured interviews with entrepreneurs actively immersed in sustainable ventures. Thematic analysis served as the methodological lens, allowing for the systematic identification of patterns and connections within the collected data. The findings reveal the intricate dynamics of sustainable entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs strategically navigate the challenges posed by inflation, showcasing innovative approaches such as dynamic pricing mechanisms. Service quality emerges as a linchpin, not merely as a transactional consideration but as a fundamental element fostering customer relationships. Moreover, technology adoption is unveiled as a transformative force, influencing both operational efficiency and the overarching sustainability of ventures within the TOE framework. Acknowledging the qualitative nature of the study, there is a recognition of the limitations in terms of generalizability. Future research endeavors could enrich the exploration by incorporating the perspectives of diverse stakeholders and broadening the sample, thereby enhancing the applicability of the study's insights. Practically, entrepreneurs stand to benefit from the study's findings by gaining practical insights for adeptly navigating economic uncertainties. The research underscores the significance of fostering customer relationships and strategically incorporating technology to align with sustainability goals. In the realm of societal implications, this study contributes significantly to the ongoing discourse on sustainable entrepreneurship. It emphasizes the broader benefits accruing to society when businesses are steadfastly committed to environmental and social responsibility. The originality and value of this research lie in its provision of unique insights into the interconnected dynamics of sustainable entrepreneurship. By shedding light on how entrepreneurs intricately balance economic viability with environmental and social goals, the study adds depth to the current understanding of sustainable business practices. As with any research endeavor, limitations are acknowledged. Sample specificity and potential researcher bias are recognized factors that may influence the generalizability of the findings. These constraints, however, do not diminish the valuable contributions made by this exploration into the multifaceted landscape of sustainable entrepreneurship.
Jeotgalibacillus haloalkaliphilus sp. nov., a novel alkaliphilic and halotolerant bacterium, isolated from the estuary of the Fenhe River into the Yellow River
Authors: Zhang Ya-Fei , Peng Yun-Lin , Xiao Yong-Hui , Yu Bing , Cao Ming-Yue , Zhang Zhi-Ling , Huang Le-Qun , Li Yi
Published: January 2024

A Gram-stain positive, aerobic, alkaliphilic and halotolerant bacterium, designated HH7-29T, was isolated from the estuary of the Fenhe River into the Yellow River in Shanxi Province, PR China. Growth occurred at pH 6.0–12.0 (optimum, pH 8.0–8.5) and 15–40℃ (optimum, 32℃) with 0.5–24% NaCl (optimum, 2–9%). The predominant fatty acids (> 10.0%) were iso-C15:0 and anteiso-C15:0. The major menaquinones were MK-7 and MK-8. The polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol and two unidentified phospholipids. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain HH7-29T was a member of the genus Jeotgalibacillus, exhibiting high sequence similarity to the 16S rRNA gene sequences of Jeotgalibacillus alkaliphilus JC303T (98.4%), Jeotgalibacillus salarius ASL-1T (98.1%) and Jeotgalibacillus alimentarius YKJ-13T (98.1%). The genomic DNA G + C content was 43.0%. Gene annotation showed that strain HH7-29T had lower protein isoelectric points (pIs) and possessed genes related to ion transport and organic osmoprotectant uptake, implying its potential tolerance to salt and alkali. The average nucleotide identity, digital DNA–DNA hybridization values, amino acid identity values, and percentage of conserved proteins values between strain HH7-29T and its related species were 71.1–83.8%, 19.5–27.4%, 66.5–88.4% and 59.8–76.6%, respectively. Based on the analyses of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, phylogenetic and genomic features, strain HH7-29T represents a novel species of the genus Jeotgalibacillus, for which the name Jeotgalibacillus haloalkaliphilus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is HH7-29T (= KCTC 43417T = MCCC 1K07541T).
Comparative Assessment of the Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown on Air Quality: A Multinational Study of SARS-CoV-2 Hotspots
Authors: Boudia Ahmed Ould
Published: January 2024

In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, nations implemented lockdown measures to contain the virus. This study assessed air pollution levels during and after lockdowns, focusing on heavily affected locations: Oulu and Helsinki in Finland, Paris in France, Madrid in Spain, Milan in Italy, and Wuhan in China. Air Quality Index (AQI) data from these areas over two years were analyzed to understand lockdown effects. COVID-19 lockdowns in six cities were compared with SARS-CoV-2 measures using statistical methods. Pollutant Outdoor variations were evaluated via tests, showing significant differences. Parametric analyses and regression studied lockdown impacts on pollution and relationships. The study comprehensively analyzed COVID-19 lockdowns' effects on air quality, identifying differences, quantifying changes, and exploring patterns in Oulu and Helsinki. Pollutant correlations varied among cities during lockdowns. Regression analysis highlighted independent variables' impact on pollutants. Decreases in NO2 were seen in Helsinki, Madrid, Oulu, Paris, and Milan, reflecting reduced traffic and industry. PM2.5 and PM10 reductions occurred in these cities and also Wuhan, except for O3 levels which increased. Reduced human activities improved air quality, especially for NO2 and PM10. Regional variations necessitate tailored interventions. We observed that during the COVID-19 lockdowns, there was a substantial decrease in both PM2.5 and NO2 levels, indicating a direct correlation between reduced human activities, such as transportation and industrial operations, and improved air quality. This underscores the potential impact of environmental measures and suggests the need for sustainable practices to mitigate urban pollution.
An intriguing case of polyvinyl chloride solvent cement poisoning: A case report
Authors: Marambahewa S N , Chandrasiri D A C T , Weerasekara W A I C , Munasinghe B M
Published: January 2024

Background:
S-Lon® (S) is a locally produced polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-based solvent cement. It is a clear, slightly viscous liquid. Other constituents include 1-cyclohexanone, 3-butanone, and 1-acetone. It is used ubiquitously for building construction in Sri Lanka. Although theclinical effects of the compound have not yet been ascertained, the constituents have been implicated in neurotoxicity, eye and skin irritation, and delayed liver and renal injury.
Case Description:
A 42-year-old South Asian male presented following self-ingestion of S. His vital parameters were stable,and he was initially managed symptomatically. A few hours later,he developed central nervous system (CNS) depression and stridor requiring elective intubation. An examinationof the upper airway revealed inflammation and edema. He was sedated and ventilated, and IV dexamethasone was administered. Attempts at removing the nasogastric tube (NGT) after extubation on day 3failed. The patient had to be reintubated and sedated due to extreme agitation not responding to routine doses of sedatives. The NGT wasamalgamated after reacting with S,forming a solid clump, which was later found after removal. The posterior pharynx and nasopharynx were packed and subsequentlyremoved before extubation. The patient made a full recovery and was transferred to the ward on day 05.
Conclusion:
The ingestion of a sufficient quantity of S could result in gut absorption with CNS depression, coma, and even death. No antidotes areavailable for toxicity, and management is largely supportive. As witnessed in our patient, chemical laryngitis and upper airway inflammation may lead to upper airway obstruction. Chemical reactions involvingmedical equipment may lead to unforeseen outcomes.
Integrating Deep Learning with Symbolic Reasoning in TinyLlama for Accurate Information Retrieval
Authors: Xiong Xingyu , Zheng Mingliang
Published: January 2024

This study presents a novel approach to enhancing information retrieval capabilities in Large Language Models (LLMs) by integrating deep learning with symbolic reasoning, specifically in the TinyLlama model. The research addresses the inherent limitations of LLMs in processing contextually complex queries and ensuring factual accuracy. By amalgamating the intuitive pattern recognition of deep learning with structured, rule-based logic of symbolic reasoning, the improved TinyLlama model demonstrates a significant elevation in performance. The study employs the BIG-bench benchmark tasks to empirically validate the model's enhancements in accuracy, logical consistency, and rule adherence. Additionally, the research emphasizes the importance of model interpretability and trust, positioning the hybrid model as a more transparent and reliable AI tool. The findings not only showcase the efficacy of the hybrid architecture but also pave the way for future AI research, focusing on sophisticated cognitive functions and autonomous adaptation in dynamic environments. This work sets a precedent in the evolution of LLMs, moving towards AI systems capable of nuanced reasoning akin to human cognitive processes.
Adipsin as a marker of preeclampsia in a Ghanaian community
Authors: Bawah Ahmed Tijani , Hussein Hawawu , Kuganab-Lem Robert , Yakubu Tamimu , Bawa Khadija Kande
Published: January 2024

Background: This study was aimed at determining the levels of serum adipsin and lipids during the first trimester in pregnant women and to evaluate the relationship between these biochemical markers and preeclampsia (PE). Available data suggest that changes in the levels of adipsin is linked to the development of PE hence this study examined the potential of using this biomarker and adiposity in the prediction of the disease.
Methods: This was a prospective case-control study which examined first trimester serum adipsin lipids and anthropometric parameters in pregnant women who later developed PE and those who did not. Urine protein and blood pressure were determined after 20th week of pregnancy and the values used to diagnose PE using the guidelines of the American Heart Association.
Results: There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the body mass index (BMI), coronary risk, lipids and adipsin between the PE group and the normotensive group. Analyses of risk factors for PE revealed that family history of hypertension, overweight, and history of cesarean operation are strong predictors of the disease.
Conclusion: Our results suggest that adipsin may be involved in pregnancy related metabolic changes and these changes could be linked to the pathophysiology of PE.
Metadichol: an inhibitor of zoonotic viruses; Nipah, Laasa, and rabies
Authors: raghavan Palayaakotai R
Published: January 2024

Zoonotic viruses, such as coronaviruses, the Ebola virus, the Zika virus, Nipah, Laasa, and rabies, can be transmitted from animals to humans (1). There is a need to develop inhibitors because they can potentially prevent or treat viral infections in humans and animals (2). Metadichol® is a nanoemulsion of long-chain alcohols that is a potent inhibitor of viruses. We present results of in vitro assays showing that it inhibits Laasa, rabies, and Nipah viruses at concentrations of 0.8 to 2.6 µg/ml. It is likely that the binding of metadichol to VDR ( vitamin D receptor) leads to regulation of c-MYC (MYC Proto-Oncogene, BHLH Transcription Factor (which controls expression of SP1(SP1 transcription factor), which is the key step to controlling the viral replication gene GSPT1(G1 To S Phase Transition 1). Since metadichol is commercially available and nontoxic, with an LD50 of more than 5000 mg/kg in rats, it could be useful in the treatment of such zoonotic diseases.
Characteristics of opinions in the societal and non-societal domains
Authors: Singh Loitongbam Gyanendro , Singh Sanasam Ranbir
Published: January 2024

With the increasing availability of user opinions on the web, analysis of the opinions across societal and non-societal topics is vital for tasks like opinion mining and sentiment analysis. In this study, societal topics are defined as topics or events related to social unrest, terrorist acts, or government policies. While general opinions, product reviews, movie reviews, and restaurant reviews are considered non-societal topics. There are abundant sentiment annotated resources for non-societal topics on the web. However, as social issues are regionally dependent, finding sentiment annotated resources for societal topics is challenging. To exploit the sentiment resources available for non-societal topics over societal topics, it is crucial to understand the difference in opinions between societal and non-societal topics. This study investigates the characteristics of opinions on societal and non-societal datasets through statistical analysis of text and network representations. Text analysis for societal and non-societal opinions is studied based on the corpus's word usage, sentiment word association, and homogeneity. From the graph perspective, the relation of the words is measured using traditional graph analysis methods such as clustering coefficient, connected component, and scale-free network analysis to understand the relation strength of words across the available sentiment resources. Various experimental investigations show that the vocabulary used in the product reviews and movie reviews datasets have similar sentiment word associations. While the vocabulary in the societal and consumer review datasets did not share any sentiment word associations, the non-societal sentiment resources may not be helpful in the societal domain. It is also observed that opinions on Twitter adhere to scale-free network properties, increasing the possibility of using social network analysis techniques to investigate sentiment analysis studies from a network perspective.
Excitation-Induced Conformational Changes in ecDHFR: Attenuable Luminance Element in Instant Reaction States
Authors: Chang Chia Yu , Thebeau Ronnie E , Chang Fang Yu
Published: January 2024

Dihydrofolate reductase (ecDHFR) is an enzyme that synthesizes 5, 6, 7, 8- synthesizes tetrahydrofolate. It can also be used to prepare a kind of the nucleotide precursor. The present research reports that when the ecDHFR molecule undergoes the reaction and is exposed to excitation. It becomes a stable fluorescent protein. Complexes formed through DHF and other mutants of ecDHFR covalent hydronium substrate, have shown electronic resonance effects. Based on the findings, microscale reactions are assumed to be governed by specific potential energy provided through bonding formation, electrostatic attraction, ionic force, and van der Waal forces in the hydrophobic instant steady state. The ability to generate a series of realistic excitation response ratios and compare the wild type and mutant ecDHFR before and after reaction will provide further insight into how ecDHFR dynamics work and the relation with image formation capability in the nuclear medicine imagine research.
Utilization of Perinatal Depression and Anxiety Assessment Tools in Routine Perinatal Care: a Call for the Integration and Implementation of Maternal Mental Health Services Into Perinatal Care in Ghana.
Authors: Karikari Mustapha , fuseini Ayamba Dramani , Bessing Barnabas , Adeleke Victor , Okafor Jane Akunna , Abdullai Isaka , Baxey Emma Sename
Published: January 2024

Background
This study intends to stimulate critical thinking and generate impactful discussions on the provision of holistic perinatal care. The rationale is to promote the exchange of ideas and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that the training and practice of midwifery in Ghana become more robust and meet global standards. Additionally, it is meant to inform, prepare competent, resourceful, knowledgeable, and most importantly adaptable midwives who can contribute to and promote the overall health of the women in their care.
Objective
To explore midwives’ knowledge and understanding on soliciting the requisite information that impacts the psychological health of the perinatal women in their care during the perinatal period using globally validated and reliable assessment tools for depression and anxiety.
Methods
A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the participants (midwives). The study was conducted in selected hospitals across all 16 regions in Ghana. A total of 319 midwives with varying degrees and experience working at different levels (teaching, municipal, regional and district hospitals) of the health care system in Ghana participated in the study. Basic descriptive quantitative analysis was used based on frequency tables, pie chart and graphical illustration to interpret the data.
Results
The participants have adequate knowledge on the impact of perinatal anxiety and depression on birth and maternal outcomes. However, the remains a huge deficit in their ability to use the validated and reliable assessment tools in recognizing clinical cues related to anxiety and depression among perinatal women. Surprisingly, over 50% of the midwives were unfamiliar with the commonly used assessment tools for depression and anxiety such as the EPDS and PHQ-9. Additionally, nearly 40% of the participants lack the requisite assessment skills for assessing perinatal anxiety and depression.
Conclusion
Perinatal mental health should be made a critical component of perinatal care, with midwives being well situated to recognize the manifestations of deteriorating mental health among the perinatal women in their care and provide the needed support and required level of supervision. It is therefore imperative to train midwives on basic mental health assessment skills and encourage them to incorporate mental health care into the delivery of routine perinatal care and services.
Estimating Short-Term Costs of NEET Youths: Evidence from Morocco
Authors: Liouaeddine Mariem
Published: January 2024

In this article we estimate the overall costs of the NEET youth population in Morocco in terms of public finance and opportunity costs focused on three of five aspects: unemployment, health, and girl mothers.
The results show that young rural women have the significant percentage of young NEETs in Morocco. The total costs of young NEET in terms of public finance is estimated to 60 592 858 600 Dhs in Morocco in 2019, equivalent to and in opportunity costs to an amount of 55 043 899 000Dhs.
Identification of Novel Quantitative Trait Loci Associated with Table Grape Fruit Quality Characteristics in a Segregating Population and Transferability of Existing Quality Markers
Authors: de Sousa Moreira Laise , Clark Matthew D. , Tabb Amy , Karn Avi , Londo Jason P. , Zou Cheng , Sun Qi , van Zyl Sonet , Prins Bernard , DeLong Jeff D. , Burhans Alanna , Yang Hui-Ching , Naegele Rachel P.
Published: January 2024

Grape (Vitis) production and fruit quality traits such as cluster size, berry shape, and timing of fruit development are key aspects when selecting cultivars for commercial production. Molecular markers for some, but not all, of these traits have been identified using biparental or association mapping populations. Previously identified markers were tested for transferability using a small (24 individual) test panel of commercially available grape cultivars. Markers had little to no ability to differentiate grape phenotypes based on the expected characteristics, except the marker for seedlessness. Using a biparental interspecific cross, 43 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) (previously identified and new genomic regions) associated with berry shape, number, size, cluster weight, cluster length, time to flower, veraison, and full color were detected. Kompetitive allele-specific polymerase chain reaction markers designed on newly identified QTLs were tested for transferability using the same panel. Transferability was low when use types were combined, but they were varied when use types were evaluated separately. A comparison of a 4-Mb region at the end of chromosome 18 revealed structural differences among grape species and use types. Table grape cultivars had the highest similarity in structure for this region (>75%) compared with other grape species and commodity types.
Ivan Herman – citizen of two empires
Authors: FILATOV VLADIMIR VIKTOROVICH
Published: January 2024

The creation, formation and development of mining and mining science in Russia is largely due to the activities of many foreign specialists, in particular, the native of Austria I. F. Herman (1755–1815), who came to Russia in 1782. Scientifi c and practical activities of Herman was multifaceted: according to his project, the country’s fi rst steel factory was built in the Urals; to study geology and mining, he made fi ve trips to the Urals and Siberia; in 1802–1812 he was the head of the mining administration of the Urals; in 1803 he created the fi rst printing house in the Urals in Yekaterinburg; he was a member of the Berg College, holding the rank of Oberberg-Hauptmann class IV; in 1790 he was elected ordinary academician of the St. Petersburg Academy of Sciences; he published about 60 works on various issues of mining, geology, mineralogy and statistics; his name was widely known in various European academies and scientifi c societies.
Classificação de variedades de uma fruta: aplicação computacional em maçãs
Authors: Kaizer Jonathan , Souza Rodrigo , Aylon Linnyer , Costa Yandre
Published: January 2024

Muitas vezes é difícil de fazer a distinção das variedades de uma fruta quando elas possuem características muito semelhantes. Esse é um problema encontrado nos caixas de supermercados, por exemplo, em que é preciso utilizar o reconhecimento visual para identificar variedades de maçãs, uma vez que cada variedade pode ter um preço diferente. Técnicas computacionais de classificação podem ser empregadas para resolver esse problema. Neste trabalho, foi utilizado Redes Neurais Convolucionais (CNN) com a arquitetura VGG-19 e técnica de transfer-learning, e uma abordagem com K-Nearest Neighbors (K-NN) utilizando K=5 para o número de vizinhos. A base escolhida continha 6 variedades de maçãs e foi adotado a estratégia de undersampling para balancear a base. Foi utilizado a estratégia de crossvalidation para a validação dos resultados e a acurácia obtida pela CNN foi de 99,79 ± 0,12%, e para o K-NN foi de 98,11 ± 0,67%. Os resultados observados revelaram que o problema não tinha uma dificuldade tão elevada, o que trouxe altas acurácias.
Rede neural artificial para predição de brucelose bovina a partir de dados desbalanceados
Authors: Queiroz Alves Caio Donizetti , Ferreira Danton Diego , Fortunato Danielle , Rocha Christiane
Published: January 2024

The expressiveness of Brazilian livestock is unquestionable. According to data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), in 2021 Brazil was the worlds largest exporter of beef. Bovine brucellosis is one of the most worrying diseases for the sector. In Brazil, bovine brucellosis causes annual losses of around 448 million dollars. Several factors threaten the establishment of actions of the current animal defense programs in Brazil, the main ones being: lack of distinct guidelines for the diagnosis of brucellosis cases, infected animals remain asymptomatic when infected, extensive Brazilian territory and large number of herds. The use of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) can be very useful in health and epidemiological surveillance services, helping to screen properties with different risks for the disease. The objective of this work is the development of ANN with class balancing techniques and selection of variables via genetic algorithm, for the classification and segregation of bovine herds, regarding seroprevalence for brucellosis. Five ANNs were designed combining different approaches of class balancing technique and variable selection, in order to compare which approach would perform better results. The results showed that ANN combined with the variable selection technique, via Genetic Algorithms, and class balancing, is a promising approach.
Catchment response to climate change under CMIP6 scenarios: a case study of the Krishna River Basin
Authors: Anil Suram , P Anand Raj , Vema Vamsi Krishna
Published: January 2024

This study assessed the impacts of climate change on the water balance of the Krishna River Basin (KRB) in India. A frequency-based metric, known as symmetric uncertainty, was used to select the top 50% of global climate models (GCMs) from a pool of 18 Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) GCMs for hydrological modelling. The impact of climate change was projected for three future time frames, namely, near future (NF: 2026–2050), mid-future (MF: 2051–2075) and far future (FF: 2076–2100), using four scenarios from shared socio-economic pathways (SSPs): SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool model was used to simulate climate change impact during historical and future periods in the basin. The results showed a significant increase in the annual average precipitation, surface runoff, water yield and streamflow in the future under all SSP scenarios. The increase in the projected annual average precipitation ranges from 12 to 54% for four SSP scenarios compared to the historical ensemble average. Future periods showed a shift in the monthly peak flows compared to the baseline period. More availability of water in the future in the KRB can be effectively used for various water management works.
Evaluating the photocatalytic degradation efficacy of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol: performance evaluation and influencing factors
Authors: Pipil Harsh , Yadav Shivani , Kumar Sunil , Haritash Anil Kumar
Published: January 2024

Chlorophenols are organic compounds that have garnered considerable attention in recent years because of their prevalent occurrence in the environment and associated harmful effects on ecosystems and human health. The current work investigated the photocatalytic oxidation of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol as a potential treatment option. The effects of different process-conditioning parameters were studied. Analytical-grade commercially available TiO2 reported 80% degradation, whereas nano-grade TiO2 resulted in complete removal in the same time duration. Furthermore, the study assessed the use of Degussa P-25 nano-TiO2 at varying doses for the optimization of treatment. Under the optimal dose of 250 mg/L of nano-TiO2, the complete removal of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol was observed within 210 min of the reaction period. The addition of H2O2 to further increase the rates of treatment did not yield any benefit. Under solar irradiation, almost 95% degradation of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol was observed in 315 min at an optimized photocatalyst dose. Moreover, the comparison of the operational cost of UV-photocatalysis (UV/nano-TiO2), photocatalysis with H2O2 (UV/nano-TiO2/H2O2) and solar-photocatalysis revealed costs of US$0.27 per litre, US$0.30 per litre and US$0.16 per litre, respectively, during the experimentation, thus making solar-photocatalysis the best option.
Miejsce pracy socjalnej w koncepcji Marii Grzegorzewskiej pomocy ludziom niepełnosprawnym
Authors: Orłowska Małgorzata
Published: January 2024

W holistycznej koncepcji pomocy osobom niepełnosprawnym skonstruowanej przez Marię Grzegorzewską pomoc i służba społeczna stanowi jej dopełnienie. Tymczasem ten rys jej twórczości i dorobku jest relatywnie mało znany. Prezentowany artykuł zawiera materiał odwołujący się do przemyśleń samej Grzegorzewskiej jak i pokazuje jej dorobek w tym zakresie in statu nascendi oraz w odniesieniu do dnia dzisiejszego.
Wartość osiągnięć pedagogicznych profesor Zofii Sękowskiej (1924–1997) dla pedagogiki specjalnej
Authors: Dycht Marzena
Published: January 2024

Nieustanny postęp współczesnej pedagogiki specjalnej i szczegółowych jej dyscyplin powinien być źródłem zamyśleń refleksyjnego pedagoga nad kierunkiem i jakością tego rozwoju. Myśl ta, często uobecniania w dyskursach teoretycznych, niekiedy podejmowana w pedagogice akademickiej towarzyszy moim rozważaniom naukowym od początku świadomego zainteresowania pedagogiką osób z trudnościami rozwoju. Osobiste zorientowanie na ten właśnie obszar poznania wynika z podjętych studiów w zakresie pedagogiki specjalnej, które stały się solidną podstawą wiedzy i przyczyną późniejszego eksplorowania obszarów tej nauki, ze świadomością jej tożsamości, miejsca, roli i związków z innymi naukami. Zaowocowały one zwróceniem uwagi na potrzebę dokumentowania dorobku i osiągnięć osób, których twórcze poszukiwania rzutowały na rozwój tej szczególnej gałęzi pedagogiki, w odniesieniu do współczesnych im warunków historycznych i społecznych. Dla tych powodów podjęłam studium nad znaczeniem dorobku naukowego i dydaktycznego Profesor Zofii Sękowskiej, jednej z wybitniejszych twórców polskiej pedagogiki specjalnej. Artykuł jest również refleksją nad wychowaniem, nauczaniem i rehabilitacją osób odmiennych rozwojowo w Jej ujęciu, z odniesieniem do statusu i tożsamości nauki, którą uprawiała.
Szkice z dziejów kształcenia specjalnego. Skala i konsekwencje zbrodniczych ideologii względem niepełnosprawności w XX wieku
Authors: Kulbaka Jacek , Dudek Mieczysław
Published: January 2024

Tekst zawiera informacje związane z genezą, rozwojem i funkcjonowaniem szkolnictwa specjalnego od czasów powstania pierwszych szkół i zakładów specjalnych do I połowy XX w. Zwrócono w nim uwagę na szereg czynników (cywilizacyjnych, metodycznych, organizacyjnych, filozoficznych, pedagogicznych) związanych z rozwojem kształcenia specjalnego. Część druga tekstu stanowi próbę odpowiedzi na pytanie dlaczego i w jaki sposób doszło do powstania i rozwoju zgubnych dla ludzkości (i dla osób z niepełnosprawnościami) idei totalitarnych: nazizmu i komunizmu. Artykuł przygotowano na bazie dostępnych opracowań naukowych (prace zwarte) oraz źródeł drukowanych.
Geragogika specjalna – zarys rozwojowy i koncepcyjny
Authors: Kilian Marlena
Published: January 2024

W pedagogice specjalnej coraz wyraźniej dostrzega się specyficzne i niezaspokojone potrzeby osób z niepełnosprawnościami w zaawansowanym wieku. Celem artykułu było przedłożenie podstaw rozwojowych i koncepcyjnych geragogiki specjalnej, jako nowego i nabierającego znaczenia w dobie starzenia się społeczeństw działu pedagogiki specjalnej, zajmującej się osobami starszymi z ograniczeniami codziennej sprawności i skoncentrowanej na maksymalizowaniu ich życiowej samodzielności. W artykule nakreślono i uzasadniono rozwój geragogiki specjalnej w obszarze nauki, kształcenia i praktyki zawodowej. Sformułowano cele, zadania i funkcje geragogiki specjalnej, jak również jej zakres tematyczny. Ponadto określono grupę korzystającą z oferty formułowanej w ramach geragogiki specjalnej oraz kompetencje świadczących usługi z zakresu geragogiki specjalnej geragogów specjalnych.
Technologie wspomagające w warsztacie pracy nauczyciela orientacji przestrzennej osób niewidomych
Authors: Śmiechowska-Petrovskij Emilia
Published: January 2024

Artykuł prezentuje wyniki badań ukazujące wykorzystanie przez nauczycieli (instruktorów) orientacji przestrzennej w swojej pracy z osobami niewidomymi elektronicznych narzędzi wspomagających orientację przestrzenną i mobilność. Pierwsza część pracy ukazuje kontekst teoretyczny dotyczący przebiegu nauczania orientacji i lokomocji, roli instruktora oraz miejsca technologii. Druga część przedstawia procedurę badawczą, wyniki i wnioski. W warsztacie pracy instruktorów orientacji przestrzennej słabo widoczny jest udział technologii wspomagających orientację i mobilność, i jest on nieadekwatny do dynamicznego ich rozwoju, a także potencjału w obszarze zwiększania samodzielności, jak również bezpieczeństwa osób niewidzących podczas pokonywania tras w przestrzeni zurbanizowanej. Instruktorzy nie proponują podczas zajęć technologii typu ETA (systemówdetekcji). Głównie promują uniwersalne aplikacje nawigacyjne. Stwierdzono niedostatek wiedzy oraz brak metodycznych podstaw nauczania technologii na potrzeby orientacji przestrzennej i mobilności. Ustalono, że ani zmienne socjodemograficzne, ani związane z profesjonalizacją nauczycieli nie różnicują włączania/niewłączania technologii do nauczania.
Anesthesia of toad (Rhinella icterica) premedicated with dextroketamine and morphine for femur ostheosyntesis
Authors: Luiza Matos de Lima Iara , Biolchi Juliano , Caetano Félix da Silva Mendes Juliana , Scherer Borges Isadora , Carlos Duque Moreno Juan
Published: January 2024

In the present work, the objective is to relate the anesthetic procedures performed in a specimen of Rhinella icterica that underwent femoral osteosynthesis, as well as the results obtained regarding anesthetic efficacy and safety, and vital signs measured during the perioperative period. Pre-anesthetic medication was performed with dextroketamine and morphine, from which light anesthesia was obtained. Anesthetic induction was performed in gas chamber with isoflurane to reach surgical anesthetic plane. The animal was monitored by evaluation of anesthetic plane, electrocardiogram, pulse oximetry, counting of gular movements and hart rate by vascular Doppler positioned in the sternum. During the entire perioperative period, care was taken to maintain adequate room temperature and skin moistening, in order to preserve organic functions at physiologic standards for the species. Complete anesthetic recovery occurred quickly compared to previously existing literature. The protocol proved to be effective in promoting general anesthesia and safe in terms of stability of evaluated vital signs, becoming an alternative to the use of tricaine methanesulfonate (MS-222) and eugenol. More study is necessary regarding particular anesthetic effects on each species, and, given the lack of information, it is important to consider physiologic characteristics of amphibians in general to minimize the risks.
Holoprosencephaly associated with synophthalmia and arrhinia in feline (Felis catus): a case report
Authors: Sousa Terada Nascimento Juliana , Bezerra de Mira Átila , Cristina de Araujo Barbosa Kelly , Preato de Oliveira Sara , de Lurdes Silva Ardição Maria , de Vargas Schons Sandro
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to describe the macroscopic and histological lesions observed in domestic newborn felines with facial lesions characterized by holoprosencephaly associated with synophthalmia and arhinia. A feline with multiple craniofacial congenital anomalies was necropsied, and the brain was collected, followed by photodocumentation and histopathological processing with H&E. The diagnosis of alobar holoprosencephaly with grade (I) morphological lesions of the face was made through the anatomopathological changes observed during the clinical and necroscopic examination, characterized by deformation of the cerebral hemispheres, shown failure in the forebrain vesicle development, located in the cranial neural tube part, associated with craniofacial dysmorphisms. In the microscopic study of the CNS, lesions characterized by abnormal lamination of the cerebral hemisphere's outermost cell layers and multiple areas of vacuolization of the cortex and in the cerebellum low cell density of the granular layer, with the presence of large intracytoplasmic vacuoles and absence of Purkinje cells were observed. It was not possible to determine the deformation cause, since laboratory tests were not performed, as well as the association with the FeLV virus.
Roberts-Bistner blepharoplasty for correction of bilateral eyelid agenesis in a cat
Authors: Luisa Fajardo Ferreira Ana , Helena Sanches da Silva Paloma , Ferry de Souza Erick , Carlos Pereira Luiz , dos Santos Horta Rodrigo
Published: January 2024

Eyelid agenesis, also known as palpebral coloboma, is the most frequent congenital abnormality of feline´s eyelid compromising the patient's ocular health. The treatment of choice is blepharoplasty, which can be performed using different surgical techniques, depending on the extent of the coloboma. This paper reports a feline case diagnosed with coloboma in approximately 50% of the temporal and bilateral upper eyelid, which was treated using the Roberts-Bistner technique. Attention to the primary surgical care and delicate manipulation of tissues allowed maximum use of the wholly healed flaps. Trichiasis is a common complication inherent to traditional coloboma correction techniques and despite this was observed in both eyes a few weeks after surgery, the, reconstructive blepharoplasty provided adequate eyelid function and good cosmesis for the correction of eyelid agenesis in this patient.