bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AI Based Tool for Preliminary Diagnosis of Dermatological Manifestations
Authors: Kharat Minal
Published: April 2024

Abstract: The article suggests combining a cutting-edge deep convolution neural network (DCNN) with a texture map to automatically detect malignant spots and stain the ROI over the course of a single version. A better department dedicated to disease identification and a smaller department for linguistic segmentation and ROI marking make up the two cooperating branches of the anticipated DCNN version. The community version extracts the malignant spots with the help of the better department, and the lower department also gives the disease and heath careareas more accuracy. The community version pulls the textureimages from the input image in orderto form the options insidethe disease areas extra regular. The same old texture image deviation values are then decoded using a window. The best deviation values are then utilized to create a texture map that is divided into multiple patches and used as the computer's input for the deep convolution community version. The strategy proposed in this paper is known as a texture-map- based entirely department-collaborative network
Employee Monitoring System Using Power BI
Authors: Panda Dr. B. S.
Published: April 2024

Abstract: This paper introduces an HR attendance and task monitoring system, which has been developed utilizing Power BI. The system provides a comprehensive dashboard for HR personnel to visualize and track employee activity effectively. The dashboard includes key aspects such as Attendance Monitoring system works on real-time or historical attendance data can be showcased, letting HR to identifies trends, patterns, and potential attendance problems. Employee Skills & Roles this section presents a clear view of employee skillsets and assigned roles, helping in informed project allocation and resource management accurately. Project Assignments the dashboard keeps track of current project assignments for each employee, empowering HR to understand workload distribution and make adjustments when needed. By utilizing Power BI's data visualization and analysis abilities to the fullest extent, this system augments HR to gain crucial insights into employee activity. This assists in better decision-making in areas like attendance management, project allocation, and resource optimization, ultimately contributes to a more efficient and productive workforce
Exploring the Evolution of Media Landscape in South Sudan: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Angui Nyimeda Deng Macham , Ali Dr. Syed Fahar
Published: April 2024

Abstract: This research paper aims to investigate the multifaceted role of mass media in the development of Sudanese society. Sudan, a country with a rich cultural heritage and a complex socio-political landscape, has undergone significant transformations over the years. Mass media, comprising various forms such as television, radio, newspapers, and digital platforms, holds immense power in shaping public opinion, disseminating information, and influencing societal norms and values. Through an extensive review of existing literature, this paper explores the historical context of mass media in Sudan, its evolution, challenges, and opportunities, and its impact on socio-economic development, political participation, cultural preservation, and national identity. Additionally, it examines the role of mass media in promoting social cohesion, fostering dialogue, and addressing pressing issues such as poverty, conflict, and healthcare. By analyzing the dynamics between mass media and societal development in Sudan, this paper seeks to provide insights into harnessing the potential of media for positive change and sustainable progress
Analyse the Enhancement of Sentiment Analysis in Arabic by doing a Comparative Study of Several Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Elshafy Mohamed Fathy Abd- , Aly Dr. Tarek , Gheith Prof. Mervat
Published: April 2024

Abstract: Sentiment analysis is a crucial component of natural language processing that seeks to determine the emotional sentiment expressed in a given text. This study investigates sentiment analysis in the Arabic language through a comprehensive approach that integrates traditional machine learning methods with sophisticated deep learning models. We examine the efficacy of conventional algorithms such as Support Vector Machines (SVM) and Naive Bayes, as well as sophisticated neural network architectures such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Long Short-Term Memory networks (LSTMs), and the Arabic variant of Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT). The primary novelty of our approach is in the ensemble method, which combines many approaches to enhance the precision of sentiment categorization in Arabic text. To address the particular challenges presented by Arabic sentiment analysis, such as the intricate structure of the language and the diverse regional variations, we utilize a tailored preprocessing pipeline to effectively handle the nuances of Arabic text. Our comprehensive analysis of various datasets demonstrates that the ensemble technique outperforms individual model benchmarks and offers novel insights into the interplay between different machine learning paradigms in Arabic NLP. The results emphasize the ability of hybrid approaches to improve Arabic sentiment analysis, providing a solid basis for future research and practical applications in understanding the sentiments of Arabic consumers. This study is a significant addition to the expanding domain of Arabic Natural Language Processing (NLP). This resource offers a comprehensive and advanced methodology for utilizing machine learning and deep learning methods to comprehend and analyse the intricate aspects of sentiment in the Arabic language
Parkinson’s Disease Detection Using Machine Learning
Authors: Sahu Chandraprabha , Yadav Maya , Dhruwe Parth Singh , Singh Arpita , Shukla Samiksha
Published: April 2024

Abstract: Parkinson’s disease is progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement leading to shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with walking, balance, and coordination. Parkinson’s symptoms begin gradually and get worse over time. It has 5 stages to it and estimated seven to 10 million people worldwide have Parkinson disease. This is chronic and still has no cure. It is a neurodegenerative disease that affects the neurons in the brain that contain dopamine. There is a model, in which using machine learning techniques we can detect Parkinson’s disease depending upon certain medical procedures. We used support vector machine for this and use the sklearn library to prepare the dataset. This gives the accuracy of 88%. In our model we used the dataset which contains biomedical voice measurements from 31 people. From the whole data 20% is used for testing and 80% is used for training. The data of any person is entered to check whether the person has Parkinson or not. The status column is set to 0 for healthy person and 1 for person having Parkinson disease
Advance Sequential Models for Asset Trading: Leveraging LSTM & RNN with Stochastic RSI and MACD Indicators
Authors: Sreevishnu S. , Shyam R. , E Ms. S. Saraswathi. M.
Published: April 2024

Abstract: The goal of stock market prediction is to forecast a company's financial stocks' future worth. The application of machine learning, which creates predictions based on the values of the current stock market indices by training on their prior values, is a recent trend in stock market prediction technologies. Machine learning utilises many models to facilitate accurate and reliable prediction. The study focuses on stock value prediction using regression and LSTM-based machine learning. Considered factors are volume, low, high, open, and closed. We also employ algorithmic trading, which is a technique for automatically executing orders based on pre-programmed trading instructions that take volume, price, and time into account. This kind of trading aims to take advantage of a computer's speed and computational power in comparison to human traders. Algorithmic trading has become more popular in the twenty-first century, prompting traders to respond. According to a 2019 research, 92% of traders use algorithms rather than people. The moving average convergence & divergence and the relative strength index are our primary tools. One technical tool employed in financial market analysis is the relative strength index, or RSI. Charting a stock's historical and present strength or weakness with retail and institutional traders is the goal. Investment banks, mutual funds, pension funds, and hedge funds all utilise it extensively when they need to perform trades. based on the closing prices of a recent trading period, too fast for a human or the market. It is important to distinguish the indicator from relative strength. The RSI measures the speed and size of price changes and is categorised as a momentum oscillator. The rate at which prices rise or fall is known as momentum. The ratio of higher closes to lower closes, where closures are defined as averages of absolute values of price changes, is the relative strength, or RS. The RSI determines momentum by dividing higher closes by overall closes, or stocks with more or stronger positive moves. The RSI is most commonly employed during a 14-day period and is scaled from 0 to 100, with 70 and 30 representing the high and low readings, respectively. Alternately shorter or longer outlooks are associated with shorter or longer time frames. Although they happen less frequently, high and low levels— 80 and 20, or 90 and 10—indicate increased momentum. J. Welles Wilder created the relative strength index, which was first published in the June 1978 issue of commodities magazine and in his 1978 book New concepts in technical trading systems, and in commodities magazine in the June 1978 issue.
Experiencias sobre el uso de lenguaje inclusivo en la Administración Pública de Uruguay
Authors: Barnech Cuervo María Cecilia
Published: April 2024

La preocupación por la claridad y comprensión del lenguaje jurídico es una tendencia creciente, de la que Uruguay no ha escapado. Dentro de la problemática, el uso del lenguaje inclusivo o no sexista ocupa un lugar particular. En este contexto, este trabajo presenta el panorama en la Administración Pública uruguaya: su marco normativo, su alcance y sus usos, por medio del estudio de un corpus específico. Los resultados obtenidos son dispares y revelan que Uruguay ha recorrido un camino oscilante y, tal vez, confuso, que merece evaluación y nuevas decisiones institucionales.
Superporous Hydrogel: A Novel Approach for Safe Gastroretentive Drug Delivery System
Authors: Pawar Darshana , Jamindar Darshan , Farooqui Nadeem A. , Manocha Nimita
Published: April 2024

Superporous hydrogel are developed initially as novel drug delivery system to retain dosage form in upper gastrointestinal tract, and absorbs drug in gastric medium. The generation-based classification of superporous hydrogel is covered in this review. The hydrophilic polymer networks formed by the molecular entanglements which absorb water up to thousands of times to their dry weight. These systems swells quickly and resist in an extremely acidic condition in stomach. This hydrogel is instantly swell through capillary force which is driven by absorption of water through an open porous structure. This system provides better solubility and bioavailability by targeting the specific site of absorption.  The conventional superporous hydrogels have the poor mechanical strength which is overcome by developing the second superporous hydrogel generation composites and the third-generation superporous hydrogel hybrids. This article has mainly focused on the classification, techniques, drug loading, research papers, characterizations and applications of superporous hydrogel.

Keywords: Gastric retention, Cross-linking, Superporous hydrogel, Swelling rate, Elastic property, Hydrophilic polymer networks.
Fulvic acid transdermal patch: Its properties, optimization and release
Authors: Konnova Maria Alex , Volkov Alexander A. , Melnikova Nina B.
Published: April 2024

There is a high demand for the design of fulvic acids (FA) transdermal patches being natural biologically active substances with a wide action. The difficulties in FA transdermal patches creating are due to the peculiarities of FA obtaining with high purity and solubility, the existence of many several polymorphic forms, as well as the problems of their insertion into dosage forms. In this work, we modified the FA isolation as water-soluble polymorph. This operation allowed us to reduce the impurities in the product, to optimize the formulation of the emulsion-based transdermal patches, to provide a quantitative assessment of FA release. Data of IR, 13C NMR, AAS, ICP-AES-spectra, direct and reverse titration of carboxyl groups and phenolic hydroxyls, potentiometry, molecular weight determination by cryoscopy (M.m=740 g/mol), fluorescent analysis, solubility (3.3 mL of water per gram) confirmed the receipt of the desired polymorph. Optimization of the transdermal patches formulations by Response Surface Methodology and release evaluation and kinetics mathematical modeling using a Franz cell showed the preferences of Pluronic Kolliphor p237 as a transcutant. The obtained water-soluble FA can be used as a potential component of transdermal patches with controlled release parameters.

Keywords: fulvic acid, transdermal patches, pluronics, release
Concept of Cosmetology and its Historical Background in Unani Perspective
Authors: Manzoor Faisel
Published: April 2024

Unani physicians have paid great attention to the use of cosmetics since very ancient times. Around 4000 BC first archaeological evidence of cosmetics usage was found in ancient Egypt. The use of perfumes, oils, burning of aromatic incense, copper eye shadows, lamp black for eyes and dying of hairs red were in practice by ancient Egyptians. Unani literature is very rich in cosmeceutical formulations taking care of appearance and dealing with cosmetic diseases in humans. In Unani classical text like Kitab-ul-Mansoori, Al-Hawi-fil-Tib, Kamil-us-Sana, Al-Qanoon-fit-Tib, Zakheera-e-Khwarzam Shahi, the details of cosmetics are mentioned under the headings of Tazeeniyaat. This systematic review can be concluded that various cosmetics and cosmeceuticals prevailing in contemporary era may have been introduced or inspired by these physicians. There are several single drugs or compound formulations described in Unani classical text. Unani cosmetics can be a very good choice owing to their range, low cost and safety and can also be incorporated as an adjuvant in several contemporary preparation. There are several Unani cosmeceuticals are described in unani classical text like Solid Cosmeceutical (Ghaza, Ghaliya, Kajal), Semi-solid Cosmeceutical (Tila, Zimad, Ubtan) and Liquid cosmeceutical (Ghusool, Pashoya).

Keywords: Unani Medicine, Cosmetics, Cosmeceuticals, Tazeeniyaat
Management of Amenorrhoea (Ihtibas-al-Tamth) in Unani System of Medicine: A Review
Authors: Raza Ayesha , Zehra Farheen , Nayab Mohd
Published: April 2024

Menstrual patterns can be an indicator of overall health and self-perception of well-being. Amenorrhoea is the absence of menses in women of reproductive agewhich may be primary or secondary. Primary amenorrhoea refers to the absence of menarche at the age of 16 and secondary amenorrhoea is the cessation of menses for at least 6 months in already cycling women. Secondary amenorrhoea is more common than primary amenorrhea. Ihtibas al-Tamth (amenorrhoea) is defined in the Unani system of medicine as the absence of monthly bleeding for more than 2 months or a decrease in the quantity of menstrual blood. The etiologies of amenorrhoea may be considered categorically as outflow tract abnormalities, primary ovarian insufficiency, hypothalamic or pituitary disorders, other endocrine gland disorders, sequelae of chronic disease, physiologic, or induced. The causes of Ihtibas al-Tamth are related to Quwwat Dafia al-Badan, Madda and Johar Khun-i-Hayd, or Ala Makhraj -i-Hayd. Su’-i-Mizaj Barid, Yabis, Harr or Harr wa Yabis, Su’-i-Mizaj Maddi or Sada can lead to Du’f al-Quwwat-i-Dafia. Abnormality in quality and quantity of Madda in Su’-i-Mizaj Maddi can also lead to ihtibas al-tamth. Amenorrhoea is not a diagnosis but a symptom indicating anatomical, genetic and neuroendocrine abnormalities. It can be determined by two different groups of causes: (a) anatomical defects of the genital organs; (b) endocrine dysfunctions. Both congenital and acquired anomalies in the structure of the uterus and vagina could produce amenorrhoea; nevertheless, in most patients, amenorrhoea is related to an ovarian malfunction. Symptoms usually associated with amenorrhoea are headache, nausea, back ache and lower abdominal pain, tiredness, and some respiratory problems. Main principle of treatment includes Tawleed-i-Dam, Tanqiya-i-Akhlat Ghaleeza, Talteef-i-Khilt, Tafteeh-i-Uruq Raham and Tahzeel if obesity is the cause. Surgical intervention if hymen is imperforated. Some regimenal therapies are also beneficial in amenorrhoea, such as Fasd-i-Safin, Hammam-i-Murattib and Hijama-i-Nariya on calf area. Some Unani drugs, which are beneficial in amenorrhoea, are Habb-i-Mudir, Safoof-i-Baboona, Kushta Faulad, and Safoof Muhazzil. In the present scenario, it is utmost important to educate the patients to live a healthy and hygienic life and to avoid those factors which cause amenorrhoea.
Strategies for Managing Anemia in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Biju Blessy , D'Cruz Adlin , Jiby Sneha , Devassy Melvin , Jacob Rosmin
Published: April 2024

Anemia is a common complication in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and is associated with decreased quality of life, deteriorating kidney function, increased illness, higher mortality rates, and elevated healthcare costs. Management of CKD-related anemia aims to enhance renal function (when feasible) and bolster red blood cell production. Anemia in chronic kidney disease (CKD) stems from a variety of factors, including reduced erythropoietin (EPO) production, inadequate iron availability or functionality, and inflammation leading to heightened levels of hepcidin, among other causes. Typical treatment for CKD-related anemia involves administering oral or intravenous iron supplements in conjunction with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs). Over the past decade, erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) have proven effective in boosting hemoglobin (Hb) levels for many patients. However, concerns about their safety, particularly regarding increased cardiovascular risk—especially at high doses and in hyporesponsive patients—have emerged. As a result, there's been a shift towards adopting more cautious Hb targets. Iron deficiency is widespread among CKD patients, particularly in those not undergoing dialysis. While iron supplementation has traditionally been used to support anemia management, there's growing recognition of the potential benefits of intravenous iron therapy, especially in the context of heart failure. HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors are promising new drugs being clinically evaluated as alternatives to ESAs for anemia treatment in CKD patients. Initial data suggest they effectively boost endogenous erythropoietin production with potential benefits like lower peak concentrations, efficacy in inflamed patients, and improved iron utilization. However, further research is needed to confirm their safety and efficacy in the long term use.

Keywords: anemia, chronic kidney disease, erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, iron, HIF-prolyl-hydroxylase inhibitors
Assessment of Parents Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about Child Vaccination in Selected Rural Areas of Kalaburagi District, India
Authors: Sandeep S , Biradar S S , Veeresh Veeresh
Published: April 2024

Objective: Immunization has evolved as one of the most successful public health interventions, reducing the incidence of infectious diseases and improving quality of life. This study was conducted to analyze the level of knowledge, attitude and experience of childhood vaccination among local participants from selected rural areas of Kalaburagi District, which can be related to the immunization status of their children.

Method: The Prospective, Cross-Sectional study was conducted at selected villages of rural areas in Kalaburagi district. Parents were enrolled into the study by considering the study criteria. Demographic details and other relevant data were collected at pre-test and post-test

Results: A total of 631 parents from 10 selected rural areas were enrolled in the study out of which 611 parents completed the study and 20 parents did not complete the study. It was evident that 470(76.92%) children’s immunization was completed according to schedule, 73(11.95%) children’s immunization was not complete according to schedule and 68(11.13%) parents did not know whether child immunization was complete according to schedule or not. The pre and post-test KAP score was assessed using SPSS software and Chi- Square test was carried out to analyze the Statistical significance. The study was statistically significant at p-value of <0.01.

Conclusion: The study concluded that better awareness of childhood immunization among parents led to increased immunization experience in their children. Health workers must be trained at the grass root level and through them the importance of childhood vaccination must spread to all rural areas.

Keywords: Immunization, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice
UV Spectrophotometric Method Development and Validation of Butorphanol Tartrate in Bulk Drug and Pharmaceutical Formulation
Authors: Ahirwar Sonu , Kashaw Varsha , Sahu Ravish , Chourasia Surbhi , Rajoria Vaibhav , Kushwaha Prakash
Published: April 2024

The present research work discusses the development and validation of a UV spectrophotometric method for butorphanol tartrate. Simple, accurate and cost efficient spectrophotometric method has been developed for the estimation of butorphanol tartrate in tablet dosage form. The optimum conditions for the analysis of the drug were established. The maximum wavelength (λ max) was found to be 278nm. The percentage recovery of butorphanol tartrate was in the 100.016±0.68. Beers law was obeyed in the concentration range of 2-12μg/ml. Calibration curves shows a linear relationship between the absorbance and concentration. The line equation y = 0.0674x - 0.0057 with r2 of 0.9998was obtained. Validation was performed according to ICH guidelines for linearity, accuracy, precision, LOD and LOQ. The sample solution was stable up to 36 hours. The proposed method may be suitable for the analysis of butorphanol tartrate in tablet formulation for quality control purposes.

Keywords: Butorphanol tartrate, Validation, Precision, Accuracy, LOQ, LOD, ICH guidelines.
Түлшээ үржүүлэн шатаах хурдан реакторын нейтроны тоог нэмэгдүүлэх боломжууд
Authors: Sambuu Odmaa
Published: April 2024

The breed-and-burn fast reactor utilizes depleted or natural uranium fuel and the fissile isotopes generate from fertile isotopes while the fissile ones burn. So, it has an advanced nuclear reactor with technological advantages to utilize uranium resources effectively as well as to reduce the amount of spent nuclear fuel. The integration of neutron number in a reactor core is determined by the difference between the total number of produced and absorbed neutrons, including lost neutrons in a core during burnup. While the neutron balance is high, the fuel breeding process works effectively. The objective of the research work is to find ways to increase the neutron balance in a reactor core. In the present work, the effect of some design parameters such as pin pitch, cladding thickness and density on neutron balance was studied for infinite one fuel cells with different materials.
Virtual Care: Perspectives From Family Physicians
Authors: Ritchie Olivia , Koptyra Emily , Marquis Liz B. , Kadri Reema , Laurie Anna R. , Vydiswaran V.G.  Vinod , Li Jiazhao , Brown Lindsay K. , Veinot Tiffany C. , Buis Lorraine R. , Guetterman Timothy C.
Published: April 2024

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual care expanded rapidly at Michigan Medicine and other health systems. From family physicians’ perspectives, this shift to virtual care has the potential to affect workflow, job satisfaction, and patient communication. As clinics reopened and care delivery models shifted to a combination of in-person and virtual care, the need to understand physician experiences with virtual care arose in order to improve both patient and provider experiences. This study investigated Michigan Medicine family medicine physicians’ perceptions of virtual care through qualitative interviews to better understand how to improve the quality and effectiveness of virtual care for both patients and physicians.
Methods: We employed a qualitative descriptive design to examine physician perspectives through semistructured interviews. We coded and analyzed transcripts using thematic analysis, facilitated by MAXQDA (VERBI) software.
Results: The results of the analysis identified four major themes: (a) chief concerns that are appropriate for virtual evaluation, (b) physician perceptions of patient benefits, (c) focused but contextually enriched patient-physician communication, and (d) structural support needed for high-quality virtual care.
Conclusions: These findings can help further direct the discussion of how to make use of resources to improve the quality and effectiveness of virtual care.
Role of platelet-to-Lymphocyte ratio and other markers in predicting severity and prognosis in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Farah Raymond , Khamisy-Farah Rola , Arshed George , Khatib Rashed , Salman Zarka
Published: April 2024

Background: COVID-19 is a pandemic respiratory tract disease
caused by Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2
(SARS-COV2). Its clinical manifestations range from
asymptomatic to acute respiratory failure, multi-organ dysfunction, and
death. Purpose: This study revealed the utility of
platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) as a severity and mortality marker in
COVID-19 infection, as well as its connection with other inflammatory
indicators such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and neutrophil-lymphocyte
ratio (NLR). Methods: A total of 400 patients (206 males and
104 females; mean age: 64.5±17.1, years; range, 20-100 years) were
hospitalized with COVID-19 between April 2020 and December 2021. The
patient’s demographic and clinical information, including ward and
critical care data, were gathered from their medical records. On the
first and last days, the CRP, NLR, and PLR values of the patients, who
were divided into groups based on their hospitalization and outcomes,
were analyzed. Results: The results showed that the PLR had
statistically significant (P value=0.012) elevation, at the beginning of
the hospitalization period it was 245±160, while at the end of the
period it had increased to 341±747 (P value = 0.012). there was a
significant association between PLR and length of hospital stay and
mortality, there was also a substantial correlation between PLR and the
last status of the participants, these analyses showed that the mean PLR
in the dead group was 445±590, whereas 304±795 in the survived group
which is statistically significant with P value=0.007, that supports our
hypothesis that there is a correlation between higher PLR and severity
of COVID-19 infection and mortality rate. Conclusion: In
patients hospitalized with COVID-19, the specificity of PLR values at
the point of severity and outcome was shown to be as CRP and NLR values,
this demonstrates that there is a significant association between these
markers and length of hospital stay and mortality. The higher NLR, the
longer the hospital stays and the worse the prognosis, there was a
significant correlation between age, days of admission and mortality.
Analysis of the effect of acupuncture and photobiomodulation on muscle fatigue.
Authors: Souza Alexandre , FUJITA André P. , URBAN Mateus F. , Albertini Regiane
Published: April 2024

The goals is to analyze whether acupuncture and photobiomodulation have
an effect on muscle fatigue, identify which is more efficient in
reducing the fatigue effects, after the protocols applying individuals
are able to perform the same workload, or improve it. It is a
quantitative and experimental study, [72 active subjects (42 m. 32 f.,
20 to 38 y), η: (age 25.79 y, h 172.01 cm, w 72.28
kg, BMI 24.37)]. Fatigue was assessed BOSCO modified protocol in a
force plate, induced with 100 CMJ until failure. After the treatment
protocols. Results show a significant difference after the intervention
in groups A and D, (the sum of median heights, 2.60 cm and 2.45 cm,
d 0.387 and 0.413, increasing h 14.44% and 12.36%,
p < 0.001). Conclusion that acupuncture and
photobiomodulation are efficient in minimizing fatigue, indicating that
these treatment intervention protocols can improve muscular performance
with jump height gain.
Microbial distribution in Mudbank regions off Alappuzha, South-west coast of India.
Authors: Vijayan Dr.Jasna , AMMINI PARVATHI , Sriram Pradeep Ram Angia , Nair Maheswari , Sime-Ngando Telesphore
Published: April 2024

The coastal waters of Kerala, in the southeastern Arabian Sea (SEAS),
are unique during the Southwest monsoon season due to the concurrent
occurrence of two physical processes, the upwelling and Mudbanks.
However, little is known about the viral ecology and activity in a
system where upwelling and mudbanks coexist, though it is generally
recognized that microbial assemblages play a vital role in the food web
dynamics of marine systems, particularly in upwelling. Water samples
were taken from three locations, M1, M2, and M3, off Alappuzha, on the
southwest coast of India to examine the viral activity and distribution.
An 18-week study in 2014 and a 16-week study in 2016 on a
weekly/biweekly interval were carried out from April to September, which
were categorized into three seasons April to May, as pre-monsoon, June
to August as monsoon, and September period as late-monsoon. The
dissolved oxygen levels showed the incursion of hypoxic waters in all
the stations during the peak upwelling period. Upwelling signals were
prominent in all the stations, but Mudbank and upwelling co-occurred at
M2 alone during monsoon. The abundance of viruses ranged from 0.86 to
15.68×106 Viral like Particles (VLPs mL-1) and prokaryotic abundance
ranged from 2.73-16.26×105 cells mL-1. Viral and prokaryotic abundance
was significantly higher in the monsoon compared to pre and
late-monsoon. Based on Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results,
the non-tailed viruses constituted the major (43%) proportion of the
total viruses during this study region. However, the viral production
rates and viral-mediated bacterial mortality were high in the
pre-monsoon compared to the monsoon and late-monsoon periods. There was
no obvious effect of Mudbanks on viral dynamics and the observed
variations in virological and hydrological features were governed mainly
by coastal upwelling.
Global marine ecosystem response to a strong AMOC weakening under low and high future emission scenarios
Authors: Boot Amber Adore , Steenbeek Jeroen Gerhard , Coll Marta , Heydt Anna S. von der , Dijkstra Henk A.
Published: April 2024

Marine ecosystems provide essential services to the Earth System and
society. These ecosystems are threatened by anthropogenic activities and
climate change. Climate change increases the risk of passing tipping
points; for example, the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation
(AMOC) might tip under future global warming leading to additional
changes in the climate system. Here, we look at the effect of an AMOC
weakening on marine ecosystems by forcing the Community Earth System
Model v2 (CESM2) with low (SSP1-2.6) and high (SSP5-8.5) emission
scenarios from 2015 to 2100. An additional freshwater flux is added in
the North Atlantic to induce extra weakening of the AMOC. In CESM2, the
AMOC weakening has a large impact on phytoplankton biomass and
temperature fields through various mechanisms that change the supply of
nutrients to the surface ocean. We drive a marine ecosystem model,
EcoOcean, with phytoplankton biomass and temperature fields from CESM2.
In EcoOcean, we see negative impacts in Total System Biomass (TSB),
which are larger for high trophic level organisms. The strongest net
effect is seen in the high emission scenario, but the effect of the
extra AMOC weakening on TSB is larger in the low emission scenario. On
top of anthropogenic climate change, TSB decreases by -3.78% and
-2.03% in SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5, respectively due to the AMOC
weakening. These results show that marine ecosystems will be under
increased threat if the AMOC weakens which might put additional stresses
on socio-economic systems that are dependent on marine biodiversity as a
food and income source.
The System for Classification of Low-Pressure Systems (SyCLoPS): An All-in-One Objective Framework for Large-scale Datasets
Authors: Han Yushan , Ullrich Paul
Published: April 2024

We propose the first unified objective framework (SyCLoPS) for detecting
and classifying all types of low-pressure systems (LPSs) in a given
dataset. We use the state-of-the-art automated feature tracking software
TempestExtremes (TE) to detect and track LPS features globally in ERA5
and compute 16 parameters from commonly-found atmospheric variables for
classification. A Python classifier is implemented to classify all LPSs
at once. The framework assigns 16 different labels (classes) to each LPS
data point (node) and designates four different types of high-impact LPS
tracks, including tropical cyclone (TC) tracks, Monsoon System (MS)
tracks, subtropical tropical-like cyclone (STLC) tracks, and polar low
(PL) tracks. The classification process involves disentangling
high-altitude and drier LPSs, differentiating tropical and non-tropical
LPSs using novel criteria, and optimizing for the detection of the four
types of high-impact LPS. We compare our labels to those in the
International Best Track Archive for Climate Stewardship (IBTrACS) and
find that they are in good agreement. TC detection using SyCLoPS
produces better tropical cyclone detection skill compared to the
previous algorithms. Finally, we demonstrate that the output of SyCLoPS
is valuable for investigating various aspects of LPSs, such as the
evolution of a single LPS track, patterns and trends in LPS activities,
and precipitation or wind influence associated with a particular LPS
class.
Diseño de corredores ecológicos como herramienta de manejo del paisaje para la conservación de mamíferos en la Orinoquía
Authors: Herrera-Bustos Ángela M , Castro-Ordoñez Ximena A , Araque-Echeverry Gustavo , Becerra-López Luis E , Angulo-Rivera Diana C , Pérez-Albarracín Karen
Published: April 2024

Los procesos de degradación y fragmentación de los ecosistemas naturales generados a partir de la transformación de la Orinoquía colombiana han alterado la matriz del paisaje, afectando las poblaciones de fauna como consecuencia de la disminución y aislamiento de sus hábitats. Por lo anterior, se propone el diseño de corredores ecológicos para especies de mamíferos como una herramienta de manejo de paisaje para la priorización de áreas de importancia ambiental. Para la elaboración de los corredores se empleó la metodología de rutas de mínimo costo a partir del análisis de resistencia del paisaje y criterios de evaluación mediante el cual se definió el home range para cuatro especies sombrilla. Como resultado se generaron ocho corredores para Tapirus terrestris, Alouatta seniculus, Panthera onca y Pteronura brasiliensis, con los cuales se fomenta la conectividad estructural del paisaje entre áreas de interés ambiental y áreas del Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas (SINAP) en los departamentos de Casanare y Arauca.
La mujer y su rol en investigación: caso Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias, periodo 2014-2020
Authors: Viera-Arroyo William F. , Merino-Toro Jorge L. , Sánchez-Arizo Víctor H. , Sánchez-Larco Jaime F. , López-Domínguez Duther A.
Published: April 2024

En los últimos años se han realizado estudios de participación de la mujer en las actividades científicas, los cuales han cobrado relevancia y se han materializado en las agendas de las políticas de ciencia y tecnología de numerosos países. En Ecuador, existe poca información sobre los logros obtenidos por investigadoras en el campo de la ciencia y de los factores que inciden en la equidad de género. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el rol de la mujer, su participación en la producción científica y las brechas de género en las actividades de investigación del INIAP. Se utilizó recursos de información secundaria sobre el marco legal e institucional, información histórica del Instituto, bases de datos digitales y una encuesta con la participación de las investigadoras del INIAP. Los resultados mostraron que en el período de estudio existió una dominación numérica masculina en las áreas técnicas como en los cargos jerárquicos. Se observó que la mujer tiene activa participación en la generación de conocimiento científico, especialmente en el área de valor agregado. La mayoría de las investigadoras manifestaron estar de acuerdo en que existe un trato igualitario; sin embargo, coinciden en que se debe incrementar el personal científico femenino en la Institución. Aunque en Ecuador se han promovido políticas de acción para la equidad de género y reconocimiento a las carreras y logros científicos de las mujeres, es necesario seguir trabajando en esta temática para continuar favoreciendo la igualdad de género en la sociedad y en la ciencia.
Genetic characterization of the complete genome of a strain of Chikungunya virus circulating in Brazil
Authors: Villarreal Julio Rafael Guillermo , Yepes-Blandón Jonny Andrés
Published: April 2024

The Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a single-stranded positive-sense RNA virus that belongs to the Alphavirus genus of the Togaviridae family. It is primarily transmitted by Aedes aegypti and albopictus mosquitoes. Its genome encodes four non-structural proteins (NSP 1-4) and three structural proteins (C, E1, and E2). Four lineages of this virus have been identified, namely the West African, East African, Central and South African (ECSA), Asian (AL), and Indian Ocean Lineages (IOL). CHIKV is an endemic arbovirus circulating in 51 countries in the Americas. Clinical manifestations attributed to it include high fever, rash, myalgia, and episodes of arthralgia, which subsequently lead to chronic pain and disability, especially in the joints. Sequencing the complete genome of the Chikungunya virus is essential to understand its biology, evolution, and spread and to develop effective strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This information is crucial for combating the disease and minimizing its impact on public health. For these reasons, the complete genome of the Chikungunya virus strain br33, identified in the northeastern city of Recife, in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, was sequenced. The genome has a size of 11,601 nucleotides and contains coding regions for two polyproteins. A phylogenetic analysis indicates that the recent Brazilian strain of CHIKV belongs to the East, Central, and South African lineage (ECSA). This phylogenetic identification is important because this particular genotype has been associated with greater damage and clinical severity. Until 2016, the CHIKV virus was directly associated with travel, and its transmission was limited. Subsequently, the largest outbreak occurred in the state associated with the introduction of a new ECSA lineage, as identified in this study. It is highly likely that new CHIKV outbreaks will occur in the near future due to the abundance of competent vectors in Brazil and a susceptible population, exposing more than 11 million inhabitants to an increasing risk of infection.
PERIFITON Y SUS APLICACIONES EN LA ACUICULTURA
Authors: Barreto-Montenegro Julian C , Collazos-Lasso Luis F
Published: April 2024

El perifiton es una comunidad de microrganismos que cumple una importante función en los ecosistemas acuáticos relacionada con el ciclo de nutrientes y producción primaria, características empleadas para el tratamiento de aguas residuales, siendo aprovechada la biomasa producida como biofertilizante o biocombustible. En el presente artículo se realizó una revisión bibliográfica de las aplicaciones que ha tenido esta comunidad de microorganismos en la acuicultura. Las primeras investigaciones en este campo se relacionaron con la inclusión de sustratos en tanques de producción acuícola de camarones y peces, donde la comunidad, mediante adición y/o captación de nutrientes generados, produce bioamasa que se usa como alimento. La introducción de sustratos en sistemas biofloc es un campo que se ha investigado en los últimos años, el cual reporta resultados prometedores en la producción de camarones, pero que requiere mayor investigación, especialmente en la producción piscícola. Tecnologías basadas en biofiltros perifiticos han demostrado porcentajes de retención cercanas al 100% de compuestos nitrogenados, donde la biomasa producida también es usada como alimento para las diferentes especies de cultivo. El perifiton también constituye una herramienta en el monitoreo de los efectos que tiene la industria sobre los ecosistemas acuáticos naturales. Por último, las ómicas son una herramienta que permitiría explorar las complejas relaciones entre las comunidades microbianas y sus efectos sobre los animales cultivados y la calidad de agua, que aún ha sido poco explorada.
Early Metabolic Endpoints Identify Persistent Treatment Efficacy in Recent-Onset Type 1 Diabetes Immunotherapy Trials
Authors: M. Jacobsen Laura , Cuthbertson David , N. Bundy Brian , A. Atkinson Mark , Moore Wayne , J. Haller Michael , E. Russell William , E. Gitelman Stephen , C. Herold Kevan , J. Redondo Maria , K. Sims Emily , K. Wherrett Diane , Moran Antoinette , Pugliese Alberto , A. Gottlieb Peter , M. Sosenko Jay , M. Ismail Heba
Published: April 2024

Objective: Mixed meal tolerance test stimulated area under the curve (AUC) C-peptide at 12 to 24 months represents the primary endpoint for nearly all intervention trials seeking to preserve beta cell function in recent-onset type 1 diabetes. We hypothesized that participant benefit might be detected earlier and predict outcomes at 12 months post-therapy. Such findings would support shorter trials to establish initial efficacy.

Research Design and Methods: We examined data from 6 TrialNet immunotherapy randomized controlled trials in a post-hoc analysis and included additional stimulated metabolic indices beyond C-peptide AUC. We partitioned the analysis into successful and unsuccessful trials and analyzed the data both in the aggregate as well as individually for each trial.

Results: Among trials meeting their primary endpoint, we identified a treatment effect at 3 and 6 months when using C-peptide AUC (p=0.030 and <0.001, respectively) as a dynamic measure (i.e., change from baseline). Importantly, no such difference was seen in the unsuccessful trials. C-peptide AUC as a 6-month dynamic measure not only detected treatment efficacy but also suggested long-term C-peptide preservation (R2 for 12-month C-peptide AUC adjusted for age and baseline value=0.80, p<0.001), and supported the concept of smaller trial sizes down to 54 participants.

Conclusions: Early dynamic measures can identify a treatment effect among successful immune therapies in type 1 diabetes trials with good long-term prediction and practical sample size over a 6-month period. While external validation of these findings is required, strong rationale and data exist in support of shortening early phase clinical trials.
Primary splenic angiosarcoma: a case series of a rare oncological entity and diagnostic challenge
Authors: Dirven Iris , Leclercq Philippe , D'Hondt Lionel , Delmotte Valentine , Lefesvre Pierre , Reynaert Hendrik , Vandenbroucke Frederik , Surmont Magali
Published: April 2024

Background and purpose: Primary angiosarcoma of the spleen (PAS), an exceptionally rare and aggressive neoplasm with high metastatic risk (70%–85%), is frequently diagnosed in an advanced or metastatic stage. It presents diagnostic challenges due to its nonspecific symptomatology and resemblance to benign vascular lesions in various imaging modalities.
Patients and methods: This case series aims to clarify the diagnostic difficulties by comparing imaging characteristics (CT-scan, MRI, and [18F]FDG-PET/CT) as well as pathological findings of three PAS cases diagnosed in different stages of the diseases (localized, metastatic, and metastatic with organ failure). Furthermore, a brief review on diagnostic and therapeutic features is included.
Results and interpretation: We suggest [18F]FDG-PET/CT as a differentiating tool between benign and malignant splenic lesions and propose a flowchart of a diagnostic algorithm for PAS. For treatment, we advocate for early splenectomy and when systemic therapy is warranted, paclitaxel emerges as a viable first-line option. While it is crucial to acknowledge that further trial data is required to evaluate the efficacy of emerging treatment regimens, designing and conducting trials for PAS is challenging given its scarcity and aggressive behavior. Therefore case reporting remains important.
A Case Report of an Isolated Calvarial Defect in the Region of the Lambdoid Suture: A Rare Bone Manifestation of Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Authors: S* Essetti
Published: April 2024

The Calvarial bone defects in the lambdoid suture region are a rare bone manifestation of neurofibromatosis type 1. They may be isolated or associated with an adjacent structural lesion, such as a dural ectasia or plexiform neurofibroma. The underlying pathophysiology for the development of these types of skull defects is still unclear. We present the case of a Calvarial defect in the region of the lambdoid suture in a 7-year-old boy with a medical history of neurofibromatosis type 1 who was referred for a brain scan to explore a palpable skull defect in right parieto-occipital region , noticed by his doctor.