bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transformers as a classifier for solar flare time series: a comparative study
Authors: Ferreira Juliana Sabino , Gradvohl André Leon Sampaio , Silva Ana Estela Antunes da , Coelho Guilherme Palermo , Cinto Tiago
Published: March 2024

Solar flares are violent and sudden eruptions that occur in the solar atmosphere and release energy in the form of radiation. They can affect technological systems on Earth and in its orbit, causing financial losses and damage to human life. Therefore, it is necessary to predict the occurrence of such flares to mitigate their effects. Specialized instruments gather data for solar activity monitoring. Hence, we can create prediction models using machine learning from this data. From an analysis of the literature, we noticed the prevalence of some algorithms, such as Multi-layer Perceptrons (MLP), Support Vector Machines (SVM), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), which presented good results, mainly considering the True Skill Statistic (TSS) metric. In parallel, in 2017, a new deep learning-based neural network architecture called Transformers emerged. Researchers initially created it for natural language processing. However, Transformers were successfully employed in other domains, such as time series forecasting. Solar activity data is considered a time series due to its continuous capture over time. Consequently, we can employ Transformers to develop a solar flare forecast model. Considering a significant lack of work using Transformers for solar flare forecasting, we ran experiments to test the Transformers' viability and performance in solar flare forecast models. We created models using other algorithms (MLP, SVM, LSTM, Transformers) to investigate the Transformers' performance and compared them using accuracy, TSS, and Area Under the ROC Curve (AUC) metrics. We observed that the Transformers had superior performance compared to the other models. For instance, the Transformers' TSS metric average was 0.9, contrasting the other models' TSS=0.4. The difference was slightly smaller in AUC, where Transformers reached 0.9, and the others reached no more than 0.7. Therefore, we can use the Transformers to classify solar flare data and obtain superior results compared to other models. We also conducted experiments using different forms of data balancing, including unbalanced data, balanced with undersampling, oversampling, and SMOTE techniques. The MLP, SVM, and LSTM models showed significant improvements in balance, where the average TSS increased from 0.1 to 0.4. On the other hand, Transformers were not sensitive to data balancing, presenting the most stable TSS in all cases.
Thompson Sampling for Linear Bandit Problems with Normal-Gamma Priors
Authors: Lindahl Karl-Olof , Lindenberg Björn
Published: March 2024

We consider Thompson sampling for linear bandit problems with finitely many independent arms, where rewards are sampled from normal distributions that are linearly dependent on unknown parameter vectors and with unknown variance. Specifically, with a Bayesian formulation we consider multivariate normal-gamma priors to represent environment uncertainty for all involved parameters. We show that our chosen sampling prior is a conjugate prior to the reward model and derive a Bayesian regret bound for Thompson sampling under the condition that the 5/2-moment of the variance distribution exist.
WITHDRAWN: Developing an artificial intelligence framework to combat tax noncompliance in Botswana
Authors: Edmore Munjeyi
Published: March 2024

Orientation: Artificial intelligence (AI) is implemented in tax administration to reduce tax noncompliance and improve tax ratio. Despite these highly publicised benefits, BURS continue to use traditional measures to enforce tax compliance behaviour in Botswana than current AI technologies within its operational divisions.
Research purpose: The purpose of the study is to develop an AI framework to combat tax noncompliance in Botswana.
Motivation for the study: A lacuna was discovered, highlighting the need for a framework that can effectively eradicate tax noncompliance in Botswana. The aim is that BURS fully embrace AI, thereby improving revenue [collection] yields and tax compliance in Botswana.
Research design, approach and method: In order to accomplish the objectives of this study, a qualitative-exploratory, descriptive and contextual research paradigm grounded within phenomenological examination was employed. Sixteen (N=16) interviews were carried out to collect qualitative data. Semantic thematic data analysis was used to analysis data and for theme identification.
Main findings: The findings reveal that most transactions in Botswana are cash based which fuels tax noncompliance. High level of cash transactions was witnessed in second hand car dealership, Indian and Chinese business owners. The participants further highlight that most business transactions in Botswana are cashless that should be a part of the AI framework to enhance tax compliance.
Practical/ managerial implications: The study demonstrates the potential impact of AI in solving tax noncompliance. The framework presented in this study provides conditions and guideline for BURS to implement permanent solutions to achieve total compliance and sustainable economic growth.
Contribution/value-add: A framework is developed and recommended for use by BURS that is explicitly aimed at providing practical solutions to tax noncompliance in Botswana.
The characteristics and clinical analysis of Lorenz plot of neonatal atrial tachycardia
Authors: Yu Tingting , Wei Xin , Wen Jie , Zheng Fei , Li Hualian
Published: March 2024

The Lorenz plot analysis improves the accuracy of arrhythmia diagnosis and is an appealing diagnostic tool for patients with arrhythmias. In this study, we explored the utility of the Lorenz plot in the classification of various types of neonatal atrial tachycardia and evaluated the treatment effects and prognosis. Ninety-six newborns (mean age of 9.43 ± 11.7 days) with atrial tachycardia had their dynamic electrocardiograms and clinical data collected between January 2018 and June 2023. They were divided into multifocal (30 cases), parasystole (19 cases), and atrial premature beat-induced atrial tachycardia (47 cases) groups based on the morphological characteristics of the Lorenz plot. The clinical features of the patients in each group were also analyzed and it was proved that the prevalence of cardiac structural abnormalities, viral infections, myocarditis, and heart failure significantly increased in the multifocal atrial tachycardia group. Additionally, the treatment, length of hospitalization and outcome varied notably among the different types of atrial tachycardia. The multifocal atrial tachycardia group's hospitalization days were the longest (19.6 ± 5.4 days). All patients were followed up for a median period of 8.2 months (range 2months–4years) after discharge, and all instances were controlled except for four lost to follow-up. The analysis of distinct Lorenz plot patterns allowed for the identification and classification of neonatal atrial tachycardia, which could improve the diagnostic efficiency of neonatal atrial tachycardia and assist clinical physicians in making better judgments based on the type of atrial tachycardia.
Discovery of Novel Diagnostic Biomarkers for Common Pathogenic Nocardia through Pan- genome and Comparative Genome Analysis, with Preliminary Validation
Authors: Wang Chaohong , Jia Xinmiao , Wei Ming , Yan Jun , Sun Qing , Long Sibo , Zheng Maike , Shi Yiheng , Jiang Guanglu , Zhao Yan , Huang Hairong , Gu Li , Yang Xinting , Wang Guirong
Published: March 2024

Purpose This study aims to utilize pan-genome and comparative genome analysis techniques to reveal diagnostic biomarkers of considerable importance for common pathogenic Nocardia, thereby facilitating accurate identification of clinical Nocardia infections.
Methods Complete or assembled genome sequences of common pathogenic Nocardia and closely related species were obtained from NCBI (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) as discovery and validation sets, respectively. Genome annotation was performed using Prokka software, and pan-genomic analysis and extraction of Nocardia core genes were performed using BPGA software. Comparative genome analysis of these core genes with the validation set gene sequences was then performed using BLAT, with a threshold of 30% amino acid coverage and identity to distinguish specific core genes. Finally, candidate gene-specific primers were designed using Snapgene software and DNA samples were obtained from clinical Nocardia strains and closely related species for validation.
Results The analysis identified 18 core genes specific to Nocardia spp., 4 core genes specific to N. farcinica, and 46 core genes specific to N. cyriacigeorgica. After rigorous clinical validation, 1 gene (F6W96_34950) from Nocardia spp. and 5 genes (NCTC10797_02287, NCTC10797_01760, NCTC10797_05842, NOCYR_2299 and C5B73_13220) from N. cyriacigeorgica all showed relatively high specificity, suggesting their potential as promising biomarkers for the diagnosis of Nocardia infections.
Conclusion This pioneering research reveals diagnostic biomarkers of considerable significance, with the potential to substantially enhance the precise diagnosis of common pathogenic Nocardia infections, thereby laying the groundwork for innovative diagnostic methodologies in subsequent studies.
One-Step Preparation of Indole-Based Porous Magnetic Composite via Cation-π Interaction-Driven and -Induced Strategy
Authors: Mao Yangqing , Zhu Haoran , Zhang Boyuan , Wu Ziqi , Zhao Bing , Yuan Rui , Zhou Mingru , Zheng Min , Chang Guanjun , Xu Yewei
Published: March 2024

A strategy driven and induced by cation-π interaction was employed to obtain magnetic porous composite material with a uniform dispersion of ferroferric oxide (Fe3O4). Ferroferric oxide/indole-based porous composite (Fe3O4/PIN) was prepared in a one-step process. Cation-π interaction dispersed iron ions (Fe3+) next to the indole groups in the indole-based porous polymer (PIN), and subsequently, after the in-situ reaction, Fe3O4 was uniformly distributed around the indole groups within PIN. At 298 K, Fe3O4/PIN displayed remarkable adsorption effectiveness, attaining 290.697 mg/g, and within 1 hour, had achieved 74% of the highest capacity. In addition, due to the excellent magnetic properties of Fe3O4/PIN, it exhibited rapid recovery characteristics for TNT. Despite five cycles of adsorption-desorption, with acetone as the eluent, the adsorption capacity of Fe3O4/PIN for TNT still remains at 90% of its highest potential. Hence, Fe3O4/PIN is anticipated to serve as an effective adsorbent for TNT. The uniform distribution of Fe3O4 in porous materials through the driving and inducing effects of cation-π is an unprecedented innovation, providing a new perspective and approach for the preparation and application of similar composite materials.
Carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone promotes of mitophagy in gastric cancer cells MKN1 and MKN45 via PINK1/parkin pathway
Authors: Yao Jun , LV Sun-yuan , Xia Jia-jie , Xu Chen-nan , Ying Xiao , Guo Jing-jing
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND
Carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP), as a common mitochondrial uncoupling agent, inducer of mitochondrial autophagy, has been used in nervous system and digestive system diseases. Mitochondrial autophagy is rarely reported in gastric cancer (GC). In this study, we used CCCP to treat MKN1 and MKN45 gastric cancer cells.
METHODS
We studied its effects on cell viability, migration and invasion, mitochondrial membrane potential level, apoptosis, cell cycle and mitophagy of GC were determined respectively by CCK8, Wound-Healing, Transwell, JC-1 dye, Western blot analysis and Flow cytometry assays. CCCP drugs and saline were injected intravenously, respectively, to clarify the effects of the drugs on HGC27 xenograft tumours in nude mice.
RESULTS
CCCP significantly inhibited the activity of MKN1 and MKN45 cells in a dose-dependent manner, and inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion. CCCP induced MKN1 and MKN45 cell apoptosis and arrested cell cycle in G1 phase. Furthermore, CCCP inhibited the expression of CyclinD1, CDK4 and CDK6, thus inhibited the cell cycle, and promoted the decline of mitochondrial membrane potential, which induced cells to enter PINK1 / parkin pathway mitophagy. Intravenous CCCP drugs significantly inhibited nude mouse HGC27 xenograft tumour Growth.
CONCLUSIONS
In general, CCCP, can regulate gastric cancer cells by inducing mitophagy, and may be a potential therapy for gastric cancer.
Product quality prediction based on integrated feature selection
Authors: Liu Yong , Xu Xiao-jie
Published: March 2024

Product quality prediction models based on big data and artificial intelligence technologies can quickly and accurately analyze massive amounts of data to ensure that products meet higher quality standards. However, in the process of data fitting, how to screen data sets with linear and nonlinear characteristics to improve the accuracy of the prediction model is an urgent problem to be solved. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out research on data feature screening in product quality prediction models. We construct a prediction model based on the Stacking structure and adopted an integrated learning approach for feature screening considering the diversity of data. In this paper, firstly, we briefly summarize the process of the product processing quality prediction problem; secondly, we introduce the data acquisition and preprocessing in this chapter; then, we focus on the improved support vector regression and Radio Free Ethernet (SVR-RFE) integrated feature selection algorithm for feature screening and construct a model including Convolutional Neural Network, Bi-directional Long Short-Term Memory, and Multi Head Self Attention (CNN-BiLSTM-SE attention) under the integrated feature selection; finally, we put the constructed model into a real case for validation to confirm the Finally, the constructed model was validated in real cases to confirm the feasibility and effectiveness of the constructed model.
E-learning and Emergency conditions: Issues, opportunities and Challenges for Botswana Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Edmore Munjeyi , Ruramayi Tadu
Published: March 2024

Purpose- E-learning and teaching became more common as a method of imparting knowledge to a wide range of learners following the outbreak of the global pandemic SARS-CoV-2. However, e-learning and teaching have received considerable attention in recent years. While the extant scholarship literature has focused on the efficacy of e-learning and teaching in countries in the Global North, there is still no comprehensive knowledge or assessment to gain insights into the preparedness of a HEIs to handle emergencies and adapt to future conditions effectively. As a result, this study assesses HEIs' preparedness to handle emergencies like COVID-19, opportunities and challenges of adopting e-learning and teaching in HEIs from the perspective of the heads of departments and lecturers of selected institutions in Botswana.
Design/methodology/approach- A qualitative research approach and in-depth interviews were used to gain insights from 5 HODs and 5 lecturers. The qualitative data collected were analysed via thematic analysis to determine the research findings (outcomes) of the study.
Findings- HoDs and lecturers appreciate the merits of using e-learning facilities and perceive the method to be more effective and economical for lesson delivery and student learning. In contrast, common challenges encountered by both HEIs and students include a lack of technological resources, poor internet coverage, inadequate staff training and a lack of management support.
Originality/value- This article provides novel insights into the efficacy and preparedness of HIEs in the use of e-learning and teaching during future serious pandemics. This article has both theoretical, research and policy implications for the adoption of e-learning agendas in HEIs.
Extraction and Quantification of a Carcinogenic and Cytotoxic compound: 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural (HMF) in honey using HPLC
Authors: Singh Pranjali , Sree C.
Published: March 2024

As there is a rise in adulteration of honey which leads to the formation of a carcinogenic and cytotoxic compound, 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural (HMF) in honey, it has become very essential to test honey for the presence of this compound. Honey is a natural sweet product that is produced by honey bees (Apis mellifera). This carcinogenic compound, 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural is developed on dehydration of reducing sugars present in honey in acidic conditions. The concentration of this toxic compound in fresh honey is mostly absent or is present in very low amounts, but its concentration increases during processing, upon storage for longer periods, and upon heating/storing at higher temperatures. This compound causes toxic fatal effects (mutagenic, chromosomal aberrations, genotoxic, organotoxic, carcinogenic, cytotoxicity towards mucous membranes, the skin, the eyes, and the upper respiratory tract). An accurate and specific liquid chromatographic method was developed due to the urgent requirement for an analytical method to estimate the quantity of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural in honey. A mobile phase with a combination of Acetonitrile and Water with 0.2% Formic Acid was used with a flow rate of 0.6 ml/minute and the separation was done on Phenomenex Non-Polar C18 Column with dimensions of 150 mm X 4.6 mm X 3 µm at a wavelength of 282 nm. The Calibration curve with R2 value of 0.999 was obtained. These results were repeated two times in the laboratory, hence Repeatability Precision was performed to validate the results. The amount of HMF in honey in the samples were found to be within the limit of 40 mg/kg as per FSSAI. The amount of HMF present in Sample 1 and Sample 2 was found to be 3.80 mg/kg and 6.50 mg/kg, respectively. This new HPLC method developed would be economical, reproducible and repeatable.
Delving into the Motivations behind Tech Adoption in Entrepreneurship
Authors: Park Yuyeong
Published: March 2024

This qualitative study delves into the intricate motivations driving technology adoption within entrepreneurial endeavors. By employing in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, it uncovers the diverse array of factors shaping entrepreneurs' decisions to integrate technology into their ventures. Economic incentives, strategic imperatives, and personal aspirations emerge as key drivers behind technology adoption. Economic motivations encompass the desire to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and gain a competitive edge. Strategic imperatives drive entrepreneurs to leverage technology for long-term growth, scalability, and market penetration. Personal motivations, including a passion for innovation, autonomy, and societal impact, also play a significant role in shaping technology adoption decisions. The study reveals a dynamic and iterative technology adoption process characterized by experimentation, learning, and adaptation. Despite challenges such as technical complexity, resource constraints, and resistance to change, entrepreneurs report positive outcomes from technology adoption, including improved efficiency, increased productivity, and enhanced competitiveness. Moreover, technology adoption has broader implications for innovation, job creation, and societal impact. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the dynamics between technology adoption and entrepreneurship. The study offers actionable insights for stakeholders, including policymakers, practitioners, and researchers, seeking to support and promote technology-enabled entrepreneurship. By aligning technological investments with entrepreneurial goals and values, fostering a supportive ecosystem for technology adoption, and promoting digital literacy and access to resources, stakeholders can harness the transformative potential of technology to drive innovation, growth, and positive change in entrepreneurship and society.
Relação entre as Dimensões Culturais dos Países e o Risco das Instituições Bancárias
Authors: Santos Jakeline Patrícia , Montenegro Salamone Nunes Danielle
Published: March 2024

O objetivo do estudo é verificar se a relação entre a cultura nacional – individualismo versus coletivismo e aversão à incerteza – e o risco das instituições bancárias é afetado pelas instituições formais. Para realizar este estudo, foram utilizadas as dimensões culturais de Hofstede (2010), limitando-se as dimensões culturais de individualismo versus coletivismo e aversão à incerteza, o indicador de eficácia do governo de Kaufmann et. al (2007) para representar as instituições formais e o risco de insolvência representado pelo Z-SCORE como variável dependente de risco bancário, permitindo analisar 1.238 bancos comerciais listados, distribuídos em 79 países dos cinco continentes. A partir da estimação do modelo, observou-se que as variáveis de dimensões culturais (IDV e UAI) não apresentaram uma relação estatisticamente significante com o risco bancário (Z-SCORE). Entretanto, observou-se uma relação negativa e estatisticamente significante entre as variáveis moderadoras – MOD_IDV e MOD_UAI – e o risco bancário. Como esperava-se que a relação entre individualismo e risco bancário fosse afetada positivamente pelas instituições formais, tal resultado permitiu rejeitar a hipótese H2.1. Em contrapartida, a relação entre a aversão à incerteza e o risco bancário corroborou a hipótese H2.2, permitiram observar que as instituições formais afetam a relação entre as culturas nacionais e o risco bancário.
Posicionamento Crítico e Social acerca do Índice ICO2 da B3
Authors: Sardeiro Luciana da Silva Moraes , Souza Paulo Vitor Souza de , Bilhim João Abreu de Faria
Published: March 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo discutir acerca das possibilidades de aprimoramento da representação dos interesses da sociedade frente aos desafios das mudanças climáticas a partir da análise do índice ICO2 da B3. Para ensejar a discussão as análises foram conduzidas em três dimensões: a dimensão da metodologia do índice, englobando os aspectos metodológicos do indicador; a dimensão dos elementos capturados pelo indicador em relação às emissões do GEE, a partir de uma regressão logística; e a dimensão dos marcos políticos. As informações quantitativas referentes ao índice ICO2 foram obtidas da B3, enquanto informações financeiras foram coletadas na Economática®, ambas para um quantitativo de 68 empresas, referente ao ano de 2021, tendo como suporte o emprego do método de regressão múltipla linear. Ao confrontar a estrutura metodológica do indicador, os dados resultantes do modelo econométrico e as recomendações de organismos oficiais a luz da teoria proposta, sugerimos aprimoramentos situados em duas dimensões. A primeira vertente se dirige à condução do processo de elaboração e monitoramento do índice, os quais poderiam instar a participação democrática de segmentos como a academia para auxiliar na proposição da métrica e a segunda vertente é informada pelo conjunto de critérios metodológicos com potencial de aprimoramento da métrica considerando as vulnerabilidades e riscos socioambientais do sul global. São levantados aspectos concernentes as condições dos países emergentes e a exposição a múltiplos riscos frente a mensuração do índice de carbono, sinalizando a necessidade de criação de uma nova forma de evidenciação relevante para a sociedade ao incorporar aspectos relacionado ao compliance social e ambiental mais robustos. Esta pesquisa visa oferecer uma dupla contribuição: inspirar a área com o uso de métodos mistos e propõe ampliar a representação social no índice, além de lançar discussões sobre as possibilidades de aprimoramento do indicador.
Desenvolvimento de Conceitos Contábeis à luz da Teoria da Atividade de Estudo por meio do Caso para Ensino Open Safari
Authors: Souza Bruno Barbosa de , Miranda Gilberto José , Casa Nova Silvia Pereira de Castro
Published: March 2024

Aplicar casos para ensino vem sendo uma estratégia eficaz para construir competências relacionadas à formação na área de negócios. Entretanto, esses casos também devem propiciar o desenvolvimento conceitual por parte dos estudantes. Diante disso, este estudo buscou analisar o caso para ensino Open Safari visando o aprendizado de conceitos contábeis utilizando como base os seus elementos estruturais e os pressupostos da Teoria da Atividade de Estudo (TAE). Realizou-se análise documental e de conteúdo no caso Open Safari. Concluiu-se que a utilização de casos para ensino alinhada às bases da TAE tem o potencial de promover aprendizado, desde que estejam estruturados a partir de tarefas de estudo que apresentem informações detalhadas de um determinado contexto para permitir a assimilação sobre a utilização de conceitos em ações práticas. Como divergências entre a TAE e o caso Open Safari foi identificado que: as informações constantes nele são mais descritivas e contextuais do que problematizadoras; seu conteúdo traz informações fictícias de um contexto que pode estar distante da realidade dos discentes, o que pode dificultar a compreensão conceitual; há questões no caso que não colaboram diretamente para a formação de conceitos, mas servem para desenvolver as habilidades de realizar julgamentos e estimativas; há ausência de dilemas e os elementos motivacionais e emocionais da Atividade de Estudo. Os resultados podem contribuir com docentes de disciplinas ligadas à contabilidade financeira ao demonstrar como as bases teóricas da TAE podem ser utilizadas para operacionalizar o ensino e promover oportunidades de aprendizagem de conceitos contábeis utilizando casos para ensino.
Os Impactos da Cultura no Processo de Capacitação das IPSAS: Uma Análise sob a Perspectiva dos Oficiais Alunos Intendentes da Marinha do Brasil
Authors: Ferreira Amorim Vargas de Souza Mônica , Pimentel Duarte da Fonseca Ana Carolina
Published: March 2024

O objetivo geral dessa pesquisa foi identificar de que maneira os valores culturais predominantes nos Oficiais Alunos Intendentes da Marinha do Brasil impactam o processo de capacitação para a adoção das IPSAS. A coleta de dados foi obtida por meio da aplicação de questionário e da realização de um grupo focal. A análise dos dados foi feita mediante a utilização da estatística descritiva e da análise de conteúdo. Concluiu-se que a baixa distância de poder e a orientação de curto prazo são valores que impactam de forma positiva o processo de aprendizagem, por se tratarem de valores próximos aos demandados para as IPSAS. A forte aversão à incerteza, o coletivismo e a feminilidade são valores culturais que impactam de forma negativa o processo de capacitação por distanciarem-se dos valores demandados para as IPSAS. Dessa forma, a partir dos resultados encontrados no estudo, verificou-se a importância da identificação dos aspectos culturais no processo de capacitação das IPSAS, pois permite ao instrutor adaptar sua metodologia de ensino de forma a melhorar o processo de aprendizagem, utilizando técnicas mais adequadas ao perfil da turma.
IMPACT DES FUMURES ORGANIQUE ET MINERALE SUR LES PARAMETRES AGRONOMIQUES DU MIL (PENNISETUM GLAUCUM (L.) R. BR.) A TARNA, NIGER
Authors:   Faculte dAgronomie et des Sciences de lEnvironnement, Universite Dan Dicko Dankoulodo de Maradi, BP: 465 Maradi, Niger., Idrissa Abarchi , Salifou Hadiza Ado ,   Institut Superieur en Environnement et Ecologie, Universite de Diffa, BP: 78, Diffa, Niger., Garba Mahaman Bachir Issoufou ,   Faculte dAgronomie et des Sciences de lEnvironnement, Universite Dan Dicko Dankoulodo de Maradi, BP: 465 Maradi, Niger., Kimba Ibrahim Boubacar ,   Faculte dAgronomie et des Sciences de lEnvironnement, Universite Dan Dicko Dankoulodo de Maradi, BP: 465 Maradi, Niger., Issa Karimou ,   Centre Regional de la Recherche Agronomique de Maradi, BP: 460 Maradi, Niger.
Published: March 2024

Millet, Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. is the excellent crop adapted to the particular production conditions of the Sahel. However climatic hazards and inherent low soil fertility reduce millet yield. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the impact of organic and mineral fertilizers on agronomic parameters of millet. The trial was conducted at the experimental station of the regional agricultural research center of Tarna (Maradi). The experimental design is a randomized complete block with 12 treatments replicated three times. The plant material used is SOSAT C88. The parameters measured are emergence rate, tillering bolting and millet yield. Results analysis shows that the use of organic and mineral fertilizers significantly affect tillering, bolting and millet yield. The results obtained show that the application of organic and mineral fertilizers improves the agronomic parameters of millet.
ASPECTS CLINIQUES ET EVOLUTIFS DU CHOC SEPTIQUE EN REANIMATION DU CHU ANDOHATAPENAKA
Authors:   Service de Reanimation Polyvalente, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Andohatapenaka Antananarivo, Madagascar., Rakotoarisoa Josoa Andrianiaina , Francklin Rabenjarison ,   Service de Reanimation Polyvalente, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Andohatapenaka Antananarivo, Madagascar., Heriniaina Aldino Tofotranjara ,   Service de Reanimation Chirurgicale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Joseph RavoahangyAndrianavalona, Antananarivo, Madagascar., Falihery Albertin Rakotomavo ,   Service de Reanimation Chirurgicale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Joseph RavoahangyAndrianavalona, Antananarivo, Madagascar., Nasolotsiry Enintsoa Raveloson ,   Service de Reanimation Chirurgicale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Joseph RavoahangyAndrianavalona, Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Septic shock is a major problem in intensive care units because it is responsible for high mortality. We aim to describe septic shocks clinical, bacteriological, therapeutic, and outcome aspects in the Intensive Care Department of Andohatapenaka University Hospital. Methods: This is a 30-month retrospective descriptive study of patients admitted with septic shock to the intensive care unit of CHU Andohatapenaka. The parameters studied were sociodemographic data, clinical parameters, bacteriological parameters, and evolutionary outcomes. Results: The incidence of septic shock was 9.5%. The mean age was 59Â±15 years. Male predominance was 65.8%, with a sex ratio of 1.9. Hypertension was the main comorbidity (64.3%). Disturbed consciousness was the most common reason for admission (41.5%). Polypnoea was found in 92.7% of patients. Pulmonary infection was predominant in 78.1% of cases. In this study, 34.2% had undergone bacteriological sampling. Kochs bacillus (9.7%) and Gram-negative bacilli (12.2%) predominated among the germs found. All patients received vascular filling, vasopressors, oxygen therapy, and antibiotic treatment. In this study, 39% of patients received mechanical ventilation. The mortality rate was 73.1%. Conclusion: Septic shock is still a real public health problem. It is the leading cause of death in intensive care. A further study will be necessary to determine the predictive factors of septic shock to improve management.
ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES REGARDING BIOETHICS AMONG STUDENTS IN DENTAL INSTITUTES OF PUNJAB
Authors:   B.D.S. Adesh Institute of Dental Sciences and Research., Atwal Mannat
Published: March 2024

This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the levels of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding bioethics among students enrolled in dental institutes across Punjab, India. A sample size of 202 students, including those exposed to clinical settings, participated in the study. A structured questionnaire was used to assess participants understanding of bioethical principles, their attitudes towards ethical dilemmas commonly encountered in dental practice, and their adherence to ethical standards in clinical settings. The findings revealed varying levels of knowledge among students, with notable disparities in understanding specific bioethical principles. Attitudinal responses highlighted a generally positive disposition towards ethical decision-making, although some students demonstrated uncertainty in navigating complex ethical scenarios. Furthermore, the study uncovered variations in the implementation of ethical practices among students in clinical settings. These findings underscore the importance of integrating comprehensive bioethics education within dental curricula to foster ethical awareness, enhance moral reasoning skills, and promote ethical conduct among future dental practitioners. Addressing these gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices is crucial for the cultivation of a morally conscious dental workforce capable of upholding the highest ethical standards in patient care and professional conduct.
Ameliorating vibratory roller quality based on two methods of cab’s horizontal damper and cab’s active suspension
Authors: Jiang Tianyuan , Nguyen Vanliem , Zhang Fan
Published: March 2024

To reduce both the seat's vertical acceleration and cab pitching vibration in vibratory rollers, an active horizontal seat suspension (AHSS) is proposed and researched based on the dynamic model of the vibratory rollers moving and working and off-road grounds. The fuzzy control is applied to calculate the control force of the AHSS. The indexes in the Root Mean Square acceleration in the seat (RMSas) and cab pitch angle (RMSaφ) have been selected as the objective functions. The isolation performance of the HASS is then compared with the cab isolations controlled (CC) and without control (WC) under two conditions of the vibratory roller moving and working on the off-road surface. The study results show that the vibratory roller’s quality using the AHSS has been strongly ameliorated in comparison with both the CC and WC under both moving/working conditions. Especially, comparison with the WC, both the values of RMSas and RMSaφ with the AHSS are greatly reduced by 54.2 % and 52.6 % under the moving case and by 44.5 % and 50.0 % under working conditions of the vibratory roller. Therefore, the AHSS should be applied to improve both the seat's vertical comfort and shaking in vibratory rollers.
Assessment of many WQI models and development of new WQI model
Authors: Aldoury Muzher Mahdi Ibrahem , Hammood Mohammed Taha
Published: March 2024

The water quality index (WQI) is widely used to assess water quality. In all WQI models, selected parameter data are transformed into many steps to a single number. Since the first model was developed in 1965, a lot of WQI models have been developed. However, all models suffer from many problems such as they are introduced based on site-specific standards for a particular region and give eclipsing, dichotomous, ambiguity, rigidity, and uncertainty problems. In the present work, an effort is made to test many of the applicable WQI models using many logical conditions. The results showed that no one of the tested models satisfies these conditions. The aim of the present work is to develop a WQI model that can be used universally (regardless of the standard used) and covers different uses of water (drinking, recreational, irrigation, or industrial). Moreover, it can overcome the previously mentioned problem. The suggested new WQI model developed in this work succeeded in achieving these two goals.
Prediction of Deleterious Single Amino Acid Polymorphisms with a
Consensus Holdout Sampler
Authors: Álvarez-Machancoses Óscar , Faraggi Eshel , deAndrés-Galiana Enrique J. , Fernández-Martínez Juan L. , Kloczkowski Andrzej
Published: March 2024

Background:

Single Amino Acid Polymorphisms (SAPs) or nonsynonymous Single Nucleotide
Variants (nsSNVs) are the most common genetic variations. They result from missense
mutations where a single base pair substitution changes the genetic code in such a way that the triplet
of bases (codon) at a given position is coding a different amino acid. Since genetic mutations
sometimes cause genetic diseases, it is important to comprehend and foresee which variations are
harmful and which ones are neutral (not causing changes in the phenotype). This can be posed as a
classification problem.

Methods:

Computational methods using machine intelligence are gradually replacing repetitive and
exceedingly overpriced mutagenic tests. By and large, uneven quality, deficiencies, and irregularities
of nsSNVs datasets debase the convenience of artificial intelligence-based methods. Subsequently,
strong and more exact approaches are needed to address these problems. In the present
work paper, we show a consensus classifier built on the holdout sampler, which appears strong and
precise and outflanks all other popular methods.

Results:

We produced 100 holdouts to test the structures and diverse classification variables of diverse
classifiers during the training phase. The finest performing holdouts were chosen to develop a
consensus classifier and tested using a k-fold (1 ≤ k ≤5) cross-validation method. We also examined
which protein properties have the biggest impact on the precise prediction of the effects of nsSNVs.

Conclusion:

Our Consensus Holdout Sampler outflanks other popular algorithms, and gives excellent
results, highly accurate with low standard deviation. The advantage of our method emerges
from using a tree of holdouts, where diverse LM/AI-based programs are sampled in diverse ways.
Withanone as an Emerging Anticancer Agent and Understanding Its Molecular Mechanisms: Experimental and Computational Evidence
Authors: Stephen Annatasha , Tune Bernadette Xin Jie , Wu Yuan Seng , Batumalaie Kalaivani , Sekar Mahendran , Sarker Md. Moklesur Rahman , Subramaniyan Vetriselvan , Fuloria Neeraj Kumar , Fuloria Shivkanya , Gopinath Subash C.B.
Published: March 2024

Despite decades of research and effort, treating cancer is still a challenging task. Current
conventional treatments are still unsatisfactory to fully eliminate and prevent re-emergence or
relapses, and targeted or personalised therapy, which are more effective in managing cancer, may
be unattainable or inaccessible for some. In the past, research in natural products have yielded
some of the most commonly used cancer treatment drugs known today. Hence it is possible more
are awaiting to be discovered. Withanone, a common withanolide found in the Ayurvedic herb
Withania somnifera, has been claimed to possess multiple benefits capable of treating cancer. This
review focuses on the potential of withanone as a safe cancer treatment drug based on the pharmacokinetic
profile and molecular mechanisms of actions of withanone. Through these in silico and
in vitro studies discussed in this review, withanone showspotent anticancer activities and interactions
with molecular targets involved in cancer progression. Furthermore, some evidences also
show the selective killing property of withanone, which highlights the safety and specificity of
withanone in targeting cancer cell. By compiling these evidences, this review hopes to spark interest
for future research to be conducted in more extensive studies involving withanone to generate
more data, especially involving in vivo experiments and toxicity evaluation of withanone.
Antioxidant Activities and Phenolic Composition of Sarcococca saligna
Leaves
Authors: Sabir Syed Mubashar , Shahida Shabnam , Zeb Alam , Abbas Syed Rizwan , Hameed Muhammad Usman , Shanableh Abdallah , Khan Muhammad Imran , Ghernaout Djamel , Lajimi Ramzi Hadj , Elgharbi Sarra , Besbes Malek , Elboughdiri Noureddine
Published: March 2024

Sarcococca saligna (D. DON) Muel is a vital plant with several steroidal alkaloids and is
effective against syphilis, liver diseases, gastrointestinal tract disease, infections, and inflammation.
The present study aimed to investigate the in vitro antioxidant activities and phenolic profile of S.
saligna. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis has shown the presence of
twelve phenolics namely kaempferol-3-O-glucoside, proanthocyanidin B1, quercetin-3-malonylglucoside-
7-glucoside, kaempferol-3-O-sophorotioside, Isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside-7-O-rhamnoside,
kaempferolhexoside, 4-O-Caffeoyl-5-O-p-coumaroylquinic acid, 3,4-Di-O-caffeoyl-5-O-feruloylquinic
acid, 3,4-Di-O-feruloyl-5-O-caffeoylquinic acid, flavogalloyl-HHDP-gluconic acid (lagerstannin B),
3,4-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid and kaempferol-3-(caffeoyldiglucoside)-7-glucoside. The hot water
extract showed the highest anti-lipid peroxidative activities. The IC50 value for 2,2-diphenyl-1-
picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity was 71.5 ± 2.1 μg/mL. The extract could chelate
the iron and possess reducing activities on phosphomolybenum assay. It is concluded that extracts of
S. saligna are rich in antioxidants and contain essential phytochemicals.
Occurrence of Residual Breast Tumors and Efficacy of MRI in their Detection
after Vacuum-assisted Excisional Biopsy
Authors: Wei Qun , Zheng Qing , Gu Yifeng , Teng Rongyue , Zhao Wenhe
Published: March 2024

Background::

Residual breast tumors may remain after vacuum-assisted excisional biopsy (VAEB).

Objective::

To determine the incidence of residual breast tumors in patients after VAEB and the efficacy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in detecting
these tumors.

Methods::

This retrospective analysis examined patients who received VAEB before a diagnosis of breast cancer (BC) at our hospital from 2015 to 2019. The
incidence of residual tumors after VAEB was determined by MRI and pathological examination. The diagnostic value of MRI in detecting residual
tumors was determined for all patients and different subgroups. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with residual
tumors.

Results::

We examined 147 patients and obtained pathological samples from 146 patients, including 103 (70.5%) with residual tumors and 43 (29.5%)
without residual tumors. The MRI examinations demonstrated the complete tumor resection rate was 48.9%. Compared to the pathological results,
MRI had a positive predictive value of 77.8%, negative predictive value of 48.8%, specificity of 65.6%, and sensitivity of 60.7%. Further analysis
indicated that MRI had moderate accuracies for patients with stage pT-1 (71.9%), stage pTNM-IA (73.1%), and luminal B subtype (78.3%). Binary
logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of tumor residue correlated with the pathological stage.

Conclusion::

Tumor residue is common after VAEB, and MRI has limited accuracy in detecting these residual tumors. However, for small breast tumors and
luminal B subtype BC, MRI had higher accuracy in the detection of residual tumors. The risk of tumor residue is closely associated with the
pathological stage.
Een modelschool voor de stad: De bouwgeschiedenis van het De Kerchove-instituut (1879-1882) Deel 2. Het verloop van de werken en situering van het gebouwentype in het Gentse scholenpatrimonium
Authors: Steeman Jan
Published: March 2024

In de vorige aflevering zagen we hoe onder impuls van o.a. burgemeester Charles de Kerchove een lagere hoofdschool voor juffrouwen werd opgericht. De school, aanvankelijk gevestigd aan het Sint-Michielsplein, werd al snel te klein, waardoor de stad op zoek moest naar uitbreiding. In volle schoolstrijd ontwierp de stadsarchitect Charles Van Rysselberghe een school naar het voorbeeld van de Brusselse Modelschool. In deze bijdrage staan we kort stil bij het verloop van de werken, de (infra)structuur van de school en haar uitzonderlijke plaats in het Gentse scholenpatrimonium.
Een boeiend brouwerijverhaal aan de Visserij – Achtervisserij (1862-1906) Deel 1. De brouwerij van François Hebbelynck (1862-1885)
Authors: Hanson Marc
Published: March 2024

Vanop de tragel (trekweg) aan de Nederschelde, die de naam Achter vis serij kreeg, is een groot wit gekaleid bakstenen brouwerijgebouw goed te zien op een binnenkoer. Zoals zoveel familiale Gentse brouwerijen uit de negentiende eeuw, is ook deze brouwerij niet bestudeerd. Ze werd in 1863 door François Hebbelynck opgericht op een gunstige locatie op het Visserij-eiland. Na een carrière van 35 jaar als zelfstandig brouwer, be gon nen aan de huidige Oude Brusselseweg, verkocht hij zijn aan de Vis serij verdergezet levenswerk in 1885 aan Raymond Van Mele, die al snel begon te experimenteren, eerst met Pils(ener)bier en tien jaar later zelfs met ‘American Lager beer’. Hij maakte van het familiebedrijf een nv en investeerde in (soms zeer) nieuwe technologie met geleend kapitaal.
Enhancement of beauveria bassiana virulence and efficacy to control diatraea saccharalis in sugarcan
Authors: Gómez Valderrama Juliana , García Riaño Lorena , Monroy Diana Marcela , Araque Gustavo Adolfo , Espinel Carlos , Villamizar Laura
Published: March 2024

El cultivo de caña de azúcar para la producción de panela es de gran importancia en América Latina, América Central y la India. El rendimiento de Panela depende sobre el contenido de sacarosa en la caña de azúcar, característica seriamente afectada por la presencia del complejo de barrenadores del tallo del género Diatraea sp. En Colombia, los estudios en el Valle del río Cauca indican una reducción en el peso de la caña de 0.83% por cada unidad porcentual de entrenudos aburridos, y una pérdida adicional de 0.26% del rendimiento de azúcar en la molienda. El uso de insecticidas no ha sido eficiente debido a la naturaleza crítica de esta plaga que desarrolla su ciclo larval dentro de los tallos de la caña de azúcar. En un trabajo previo, un aislado colombiano de Beauveria bassiana (Bv062) demostró un alto potencial para desarrollar un bioinsecticida para el control de Diatraea sp. El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo evaluar potenciadores de la virulencia potenciales para conidios fúngicos y determinar la eficacia de los conidios formulados en el laboratorio y condiciones de campo
Web-Based Therapist-Guided Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kerry Camrie , Mann Prabhdeep , Babaei Nazanin , Katz Joel , Pirbaglou Meysam , Ritvo Paul
Published: March 2024

Background

Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and stand-alone mindfulness meditation interventions are gaining empirical support for a wide variety of mental health conditions. In this study, we test the efficacy of web-based therapist-guided mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT-M) for body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), a psychiatric disorder characterized by preoccupations with perceived defects in appearance.

Objective

This study aims to determine whether CBT-M for BDD delivered on the web is feasible and acceptable and whether mindfulness meditation adds to CBT treatment effects for BDD.

Methods

In this 8-week, 2-arm, parallel pilot randomized controlled trial, n=28 adults (aged between 18 and 55 years) were randomly allocated to an experimental group (web-based therapist-guided CBT-M) or a control group (web-based therapist-guided CBT). Study retention, accrual, and intervention adherence were assessed, along with self-report measures for BDD, depression, anxiety, and pain intensity taken at baseline and postintervention.

Results

This study was feasible to implement and deemed acceptable by participants. After 8 weeks, significant improvements were found on all outcome measures for both treatment groups, and large between-group effect sizes favoring CBT-M were found for BDD symptom severity (d=–0.96), depression (d=–1.06), pain severity (d=–1.12), and pain interference (d=–1.28). However, linear mixed models demonstrated no significant differences between the groups over 8 weeks.

Conclusions

The results suggest that mindfulness meditation may add to beneficial web-based CBT treatment effects for BDD. An adequately powered randomized control trial of web-based CBT-M is warranted.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05402475, http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05402475