bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A RBM47 and IGF2BP1 mediated circular FNDC3B-FNDC3B mRNA imbalance is involved in the malignant processes of osteosarcoma
Authors: Li Congya , Ding Linchao , Wang Xuyao , Shu Peng , Shi Xuchao , Zheng Zhijian , Liu Jian , Zhu Junlan
Published: October 2023

Background
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of noncoding RNAs that are involved in the progression of many human cancers. The precise gene locus and the roles of circular RNA from Fibronectin type III domain containing 3B (FNDC3B) in OS and its mechanisms of action have not been fully explored.
Materials and methods
qRT-qPCR assay was used to determine gene expressions. CCK8 Assay, EdU assay, wound-healing assay, transwell invasion assay and in vivo xenograft assay were used to perform functional investigations. RNA-FISH, immunofluorescence, RIP assay, RNA stability analysis were applied in mechanistic studies.
Results
We found that circFNDC3B downregulated and FNDC3B mRNA upregulated in OS, and might be potential biomarkers for indicating disease progression and prognosis of OS patients. CircFNDC3B acted as a tumor suppressor gene to restrain OS progression and FNDC3B functioned as an oncogene to promote OS progression in vitro and in vivo. RNA binding protein RNA binding motif protein 47 (RBM47) could bind to the flanking introns of circFNDC3B to facilitate the generation of circFNDC3B, resulting in the reduction of FNDC3B mRNA and the circFNDC3B-FNDC3B mRNA imbalance. CircFNDC3B also inhibited FNDC3B mRNA expression by reducing its stability via competitively binding to Insulin-like growth-factor-2 mRNA binding protein (IGF2BP1).
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that RBM47 and IGF2BP1 mediated circular FNDC3B/FNDC3B mRNA imbalance was involved in the malignant processes of OS.
Automated simulation framework for flood risk mapping integrating aerial point clouds and deep learning
Authors: Fang Xin , Wu Jie , Jiang Peiqi , Liu Kang , Wang Xiaohua , Zhang Sherong , Wang Chao , Li Heng , Lai Yishu
Published: October 2023

In recent years, floods have brought renewed attention and requirement for real-time and city-scaled flood forecasting, due to climate change and urbanization. Flood risk mapping through traditional physics-based modeling methods is often unrealistic for rapid emergency response requirements, because of long model runtime, hydrological information lacking, and terrain change caused by human activity. In this study, an automated simulation framework is proposed by integrating aerial point clouds and deep learning technique that is capable of superior modeling efficiency and analysis accuracy for flood risk mapping. The framework includes four application modules, i.e., data acquisition and preprocessing, point clouds segmentation, digital elevation model (DEM) reconstruction, and hydrodynamics simulation. To more clearly demonstrate the advantages of the proposed automated simulation framework, a case study is conducted in a local area of the South-to-North Water Transfer Project in China. In addition, the efficiency and accuracy of the suggested point cloud segmentation network for large-scale 3D point clouds in basin scenes are discussed in detail by comparison with PointNet and PointNet + + networks.
Causal Relationships Between Myasthenia Gravis and Gut Microbiota by Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Wang Jiahui , Wang Jing , Wang Xihao , Yao Qifeng , Ying Jianghua , Huang Yueyu , Mao Weiming , Zhao An
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVE
Evidence from observational studies suggests a possible association between gastrointestinal microbiota (GM) and myasthenia gravis (MG). The association between GM and MG remains to be determined because observational studies are confounded by external confounders and reverse causality. The present study determined the causal association between specific GM and MG by Mendelian randomization (MR).
METHODS
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) explore the associations between complex diseases, shapes, and genes. Extraction of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from GWAS as instrumental variables (IVs) for Mendelian randomization studies reveals causal associations between disease and exposure at the genetic level. We performed Mendelian randomization by performing a MibioGen consortium for 211 different species of gastrointestinal microbiota (from 18,340 individuals, 24 cohorts) with MG (ncase = 426, ncontrol = 373848) from the Finngen database. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) was used as the primary method of analysis to compare the causal association between the two after false discovery rate (FDR) correction, with P < 0.05 as the difference being significant.
RESULTS
A MR study identified eight gastrointestinal microbiota, weighted by inverse variance, that may be negatively associated with the MG family.Clostridiaceae1.id.1869 (OR:0.424, 95%CI:0.202–0.889, P = 0.023), family.Defluviitaleaceae.id.1924 (OR:0.537, 95%CI:0.290–0.995, P = 0.048), family.Enterobacteriaceae.id.3469 (OR:0.341, 95%CI:0.135–0.865, P = 0.023), genus.Actinomyces.id.423 (OR:0.520, 95%CI:0.271–0.999, P = 0.049), genus.Victivallis.id.2256 (OR:0.627, 95%CI:0.426–0.923, P = 0.018), genus.Unknown genus. id.826 (OR:0.407, 95%CI:0.209–0.793, P = 0.008), order.Enterobacteriales.id.3468 (OR:0.341, 95%CI:0.135–0.865, P = 0.023). Genus.Lachnoclostridium.id.11308 (OR:2.431, 95%CI:1.047–5.647, P = 0.039) showed a possible positive association with MG after inverse variance weighting. However, no GM showed a causal association with MG after FDR correction. Reverse MR likewise did not find a causal association between MG and GM.
CONCLUSION
Although the causal association of MG and GM was negative by MR Analysis, the extended database or new microbiome data needs to be further validated.
Characterizing movement and searching behavior of humpback whales along the North-Norwegian coast
Authors: Utengen Ingvild Ytterhus , Vogel Emma F , Biuw Martin , Ruiten Meghan Van , Rikardsen Audun
Published: October 2023

Background: Studying movement patterns of individual animals over time can give insight into how they interact with the environment and optimize foraging strategies. Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) undertake long seasonal migrations between feeding areas in polar regions and breeding grounds in tropical areas. During the last decade, several individuals have had up to a three month stop-over period around specific fjord-areas in Northern Norway to feed on Norwegian spring-spawning (NSS -) herring (Culpea harengus L.). Their behavioral patterns during this period are not well understood, including why some whales seemingly leave the fjords and then later return within the same season.
Methods: Here we for the first-time classified humpback whale tracks into five distinct movement modes; ranging, encamped, nomadic, roundtrip and semi-roundtrip. A behavioral change point analysis (BCPA) was used to select homogeneous segments based on persistence velocity. Then, net squared displacement (NSD) over time was modeled to differentiate movement modes. This study also visually identified longer roundtrips away from the fjords that lasted several days and examined movement modes within these.
Results: Inside the fjord systems, encamped mode was most prevalent in December-January, suggesting the whales were mainly foraging on overwintering NSS-herring in this area. During the same winter seasons, half of the whales left the fjords and then returned. We hypothesize that these trips serve as 'searching trips' during which the whales seek better feeding opportunities outside the fjords. If better foraging conditions are not found, they return to the fjords to continue their feeding. The overall most common mode was ranging (54%), particularly seen during the start of their southwards migration and in areas outside the fjord systems, indicating that the whales mainly moved over larger distances in the offshore habitat.
Conclusion: This study serves as a baseline for future studies investigating both the searching trip theory and humpback whale behavior in general, and confirms that this method is useful to analyze smaller scale movement patterns of satellite tagged whales.
Human-bird interactions in the Levant during the Late Pleistocene to Early Holocene: Multi-scalar analysis of avifaunal remains
Authors: Yeomans Lisa , Mazzucato Camilla
Published: October 2023

This paper describes analyses of avifauna from Levantine Late Pleistocene and Early Holocene sites at contrasting scales. Firstly, we present avian osteological data from a sequence of occupation at Shubayqa, in northeast Jordan, illustrating changing human-bird-environment interactions over 4000 years offering interpretations of environmental change on avifaunal communities and nature of multi-species relationships at this wetland environment. Secondly, we compare published avifaunal assemblages to investigate the nature of bird-human relationships across a broader temporal and geographical span. During the Late Pleistocene and Early Holocene our species gradually transitioned to an agricultural mode of subsistence. Whilst explanations of long-term human behavioural dynamics are frequently sought, disparity between correlation and causation obscures interpretation of trajectories in the human past. People hunted birds for subsistence but extensive evidence for the symbolic importance of birds suggests complex relationships between species. Avifaunal evidence, therefore, presents insights into two commonly suggested primary causes for the shift from hunter-foragers to agriculturalists – resource pressure and symbolic expression. Here we argue that actions of humans gradually modified the landscape and ecological system but this was not a reactionary response to resource stress. Nevertheless, this resulted in the productivity of the landscape increasing and allowed further intensification. Feathers and talons of birds were used for millennia preceding the shift to agriculture and the increase in bird hunting towards the end of the Pleistocene cannot be explained by the increased role of birds in the symbolic realm.
Characteristics of small bowel lesions and disease evaluation in Crohn’s disease by Capsule endoscopy
Authors: Qiu Donghao , Wang Chunlian , Li Xiaojun , Zhang Jie , Wang Xuehong , Ouyang Chunhui
Published: October 2023

Purpose
Early endoscopic diagnosis and evaluation of small bowel Crohn’s disease (CD) have been important and challenging. This study aimed to investigate features of small bowel lesion in CD detected by capsule endoscopy (CE) as well as mucosal evaluation performance compared to clinical activity.
Methods
In this retrospective study, we collected baseline CE data of 60 small bowel CD patients. Characteristics of lesions location and features were summarized. Lesions of location difference were compared by McNemar's test. Lewis score (LS) and Crohn’s Disease Activity Index (CDAI) were used to evaluate disease activity independently, correlation was analyzed by Spearman's rank correlation test.
Results
Under CE, ulceration shape presented by irregular (76.7%), longitudinal (66.7%), oval (40%) and circular (8.3%). Some lesions were arranged by longitudinally (36.7%) and circumferentially (23.3%). Prevalence of cobblestone appearance and longitudinal arrangement in jejunum was higher than in ileum (P < 0.05). In small bowel and colon involvement, LS was weakly connected with CDAI (r = 0.367, P༜0.05), while in isolated small bowel CD, no significant correlation was found (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
Ulcer shape of small bowel CD is diverse. Cobblestone appearance tends to occur in jejunum and may result in poor prognosis. Multi-segment small oval or irregular ulcer arranged by longitudinally in jejunum may be a clue for CD early diagnosis. CDAI may underestimate mucosal inflammation. LS is necessary for small bowel CD for accurate evaluation.
A putative ormycovirus potentially associating with the yellow leaf disease of areca palm
Authors: Niu Xiaoqing , Xu Zhongtian , Tian Yujing , Xiao Siyun , Xie Yuan , Du Zhenguo , Qin Weiquan , Gao Fangluan
Published: October 2023

Yellow leaf disease (YLD) is a significant limiting factor in Areca palm cultivation, yet its etiology remains uncertain. In our investigation of YLD-affected Areca palm plants, transcriptome sequencing revealed an RNA contig with the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) of ormycoviruses as its top BLASTx matches. Subsequent gene cloning techniques yielded the full-length sequence of this RNA, potentially representing the genome or partial genome of a previously unknown ormycovirus, tentatively named areca palm yellow leaf-associated ormycovirus (APYLaOMV). RT-PCR detection found that APYLaOMV is present in more than 69% of YLD-affected areca palm samples but not in healthy ones, suggesting a potential link between APYLaOMV and YLD. Overall, these data may be valuable in understanding the etiology of YLD in Areca palms.
Clinical Implications and Outcomes of Bone Marrow Granulomas
Authors: Lin Ting-An , Lee Wan-Ching , Sun Yi-Syuan , Yang Ching-Fen , Hsiao Liang‑Tsai , Gau Jyh-Pyng , Liu Jin-Hwang , Chang Yuan-I
Published: October 2023

Background
Bone marrow granuloma is an uncommon finding that is associated with diverse underlying etiologies. Its clinical significance and impact on patient prognosis remain poorly understood.
Methods
We reviewed bone marrow biopsies from a tertiary medical center in Taiwan between 2005 and 2020. Cases with bone marrow granuloma were included and analyzed retrospectively.
Results
A total of 81 cases were evaluated. The primary cause of bone marrow granuloma was mycobacterial infection (38.3%), followed by hematologic malignancies (25.9%). The diagnosis of mycobacterial infection in these patients was often delayed due to low positivity rates of mycobacteria cultures (9.5%), acid-fast bacilli smears (13.3%), and nucleic acid amplification tests (6.3%) from bone marrow aspirates. We identified splenomegaly, severe hypoalbuminemia, and high C-reactive protein levels as potential diagnostic indicators for mycobacterial infections in patients with bone marrow granulomas. The one-year and two-year mortality rates for patients with bone marrow granuloma were 24.7% and 29.6%, respectively. Male gender (HR, 5.70; p = 0.021), age ≥ 65 years (HR, 3.83; p = 0.008), and pre-existing malignancy (HR, 2.72; p = 0.038) were identified as independent risk factors for 1-year mortality. Interestingly, the underlying cause of bone marrow granulomas did not affect the prognosis.
Conclusion
Bone marrow granuloma is often a diagnostic challenge and requires extensive investigation, mainly to identify mycobacterial infection. The presence of bone marrow granuloma is associated with poor prognosis, especially in male and elderly patients. Our study highlights the diagnostic and prognostic importance of bone marrow granulomas in clinical practice.
Evaluation of genetic diversity and population structure of reticulate iris genotypes in the Iraqi Kurdistan region using SCoT and SRAP markers
Authors: Majeed Hoshman Omar , Faraj Jamal Mahmood , Rasul Kamaran Salh , Lateef Djshwar Dhahir , Tahir Nawroz Abdul-razzak
Published: October 2023

The reticulate iris is one of the most attractive wild ornamentals, bulbous irises, widely distributed throughout the mountains of the Iraqi Kurdistan region. Due to a lack of information available about the genetic variability and population structure of this group of plants in Iraq. Thus, ten start codon targeted (SCoT) polymorphic and ten sequence-related amplified polymorphisms (SRAP) markers were used in the present study to evaluate genetic diversity and population structure in 50 wild reticulate iris genotypes from five different sites in Iraqi Kurdistan region. Over all, SCoT and SRAP markers produced 135 and 87 polymorphic bands, respectively. The average of number of polymorphic bands (TPB), number of observed alleles (Na), Shannon’s information index (I), effective number of alleles (Ne), expected heterozygosity or gene diversity (He), polymorphic information content (PIC), and unbiased expected heterozygosity (uHe), of SCoT primers were (13.7, 1.54, 0.35, 1.40, 0.23, 0.31, and 0.25) and of SRAP primers were 8.7, 1.54, 0.36, 1.40, 0.24, 0.32, and 0.25, respectively. According to the UPGMA dendrogram and structure analysis, SCoT markers grouped 50 reticulate iris genotypes into two main clades with some sub-clades, while SRAP markers separated these genotypes into four main clades. The analysis of molecular variance revealed 80 and 76% variability among populations with SCoT and SRAP markers, respectively, which indicated gene exchange between populations. Except for the number of private bands index in SCoT and SRAP markers, populations 3 and 1 had the highest diversity indices (Na, Ne, I, H uHe, and percentage of polymorphic loci (PPL)). The highest distance between populations was revealed by SCoT markers between population 1 and both population 2 and population 4, with 13% dissimilarity, while the maximum dissimilarity was observed by SRAP markers between population 1 and population 4, with 17% dissimilarity. The study's findings revealed the efficacy of these markers for genetic variation in iris genotypes, in addition to their ability for germplasm conservation and genome diversity.
Identification of candidate mechanisms for dystonic traits from an analysis of a complete system neurological / biomechanical model
Authors: Kuznik Michael
Published: October 2023

The research goal is to construct a complete system model for human head movement integrating skeletal, muscular, biomechanical and neurological aspects; verifying the model by simulating ‘normal’ volitional movement. Thereafter the model was used to explore pathological scenarios by variations to model components some of which resulted in dystonic traits, including tremor and abnormal twisting. This enabled identification and analysis of the underlying mechanisms.
Once research commenced it was soon apparent that a purely analytical model (a collection of mutually dependent components each mathematically expressed) was not realisable nor mathematically tractable and so a computer simulation configured for the specific case of head movement (targeting the condition of cervical dystonia but in principle generic) was constructed to allow the study to proceed. The resulting model was exercised to verify a reasonable approximation to normal volitional control of head positioning. With the model operating well in this context, a series of variations were made to see if these might induce dystonic traits. Whilst most of the variations investigated did not cause significant behavioural changes, those relating to the transmission of information to the brain for proprioception were found to be very influential on the system behaviour.
Simulated behaviours of pathological interest included: movement of the head to an orientation of maximum lateral twist and locking in that state, oscillations that evidenced themselves as repetitive movement of the head and finally a ‘self healing’ capability in the case of defective proprioception which is a well established characteristic of the temporal progression of cervical dystonia.
This research identifies candidate mechanisms for the dystonic traits of tremor and excess muscle tone.
Evaluation of Molecular Receptors Status in Breast Cancer Using an mpMRI-based Feature Fusion Radiomics Model: Mimicking Radiologists’ Diagnosis
Authors: Lai Shengsheng , Liang Fangrong , Zhang Wanli , Zhao Yue , Li Jiamin , Zhao Yandong , Xu Yongzhou , Ding Wenshuang , Zhan Jie , Zhen Xin , Yang Ruimeng
Published: October 2023

Purpose: To investigate the performance of a novel feature fusion radiomics (RFF) model that incorporates features from multiparametric MRIs (mpMRI) in distinguishing different statuses of molecular receptors in breast cancer (BC) preoperatively.
Methods: 460 patients with 466 pathology-confirmed BCs who underwent breast mpMRI at 1.5T in our center were retrospectively included hormone receptor (HR) positive (HR+) (n=336) and HR negative (HR-) (n=130). The HR- patients were further categorized into human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) enriched BC (HEBC) (n=76) and triple negative BC (TNBC) (n=54). All lesions were divided into a training/validation cohort (n=337) and a test cohort (n=129). Volumes of interest (VOIs) delineation, followed by radiomics feature extraction, was performed on T2WI, DWI600 (b=600 s/mm2), DWI800 (b=800 s/mm2), ADC map, and DCE1-6 (six continuous DCE-MRI) images of each lesion. Simulating a radiologist’s work pattern, 150 classification base models were constructed and analyzed to determine the top four optimum sequences for classifying HR+ vs. HR-, TNBC vs. HEBC, TNBC vs. non-TNBC in a random selected training cohort (n=337). Building upon these findings, the optimal single sequence models (Rss) and combined sequences models (RFF) were developed. The AUC, sensitivity, accuracy and specificity of each model for subtype differentiation were evaluated. The paired samples Wilcoxon signed rank test was used for performance comparison.
Results: During the three classification tasks, the optimal single sequence for classifying HR+ vs. HR- was DWI600, while the ADC map, derived from DWI800 performed the best in distinguishing TNBC vs. HEBC, as well as identifying TNBC vs. non-TNBC, with corresponding training AUC values of 0.787, 0.788, and 0.809, respectively. Furthermore, the integration of the top four sequences in RFF models yielded improved performance, achieving AUC values of 0.809, 0.805 and 0.847, respectively. Consistent results was observed in both the training/validation and testing cohorts, with AUC values of 0.778，0.787, 0.818 and 0.726, 0.773, 0.773, respectively (all p < 0.05 except HR+ vs. HR-).
Conclusion: The RFF model, integrating mpMRI radiomics features, demonstrated promising ability to mimic radiologists’ diagnosis for preoperative identification of molecular receptors of BC.
Exploring the Molecular and Immune Landscape of Lung Cancer Associated with Cystic Airspaces: Implications for Prognosis and Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Zheng Xiang , Qiu Li , Huang Ying , Cheng Ran , Huang Si , Xu Ke , Cai Wei , Deng Yu , Wang Wei , Zhong Xi , Cui Fei , Hao Zhexue , Liu Jun
Published: October 2023

Objective: To explore the molecular biological characteristics of lung cancer associated with cystic airspaces (LCCA) and its potential roles on prognosis.
Methods: A total of 165 LCCAs and 201 non-LCCAs were enrolled in this study. Bulk RNA sequencing was implemented in eight LCCAs and nine non-LCCAs to explore the differentially expressed genes. TCGA data were used to analyze LCCA-specific genes that associated with overall survival.
Results: The median age was 60 (IQR 53 to 65) years in LCCA cohort. We found LCCA were predominant in men and had less visceral pleura invasion (VPI) or lympho-vascular invasion (LVI). Moreover, LCCA presented with higher histological heterogeneity. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients of age more than 60 and positive VPI had significantly less PFS in LCCA. Cox regression suggested that LCCA, micropapillary subtype proportion and VPI were the independent risk factors for PFS. LCCA had up-regulated pathways associated with EMT, angiogenesis and cell migration. In addition, LCCA displayed higher levels of immunosuppressor infiltration (M2 macrophages, CAFs and MDSCs) and distinct cell death and metabolic patterns. BCR/TCR repertoire analysis revealed less BCR richness, clonality and high-abundance shared clonotypes in LCCA. Finally, Cox regression analysis identified that four cystic-specific genes, KCNK3, NRN1, PARVB and TRHDE-AS1, were associated with OS of LUAD. And cystic-specific risk scores (CSRSs) were calculated to construct a nomogram, which performance well.
Conclusions: Our study for the first time indicated significantly distinct molecular biological and immune characteristics between LCCA and non-LCCA, which provide complementary prognostic values in early-stage NSCLC.
Exploring Pauli Configurations in Quantum Kernels for Enhanced Binary Classification
Authors: Bertel Luis Gerardo Ayala , Patel Ashish , Vaithiyashankar Jayakumar
Published: October 2023

This study pretends to set one’s sights on advancing the understanding of quantum machine learning’s applicability in binary tasks. By systematically assessing quantum kernels and their performance, the primary objective is to determine and evaluate how different Pauli configurations—precisely, ZZ, ZY, and a custom configuration (Z, YY, ZXZ)—impact execution accuracy running in simulator and 7-qubits IBM quantum hardware. The paper encompasses a robust methodology, including data preprocessing, quantum kernel creation, and integration into classical SVMs. It provides essential guidance for discussing the strengths and limitations of quantum methods, highlighting their potential as a valuable tool for developing accurate diagnostic models.
Circumstances of Occurrence and Post-Exposure Management of Body Fluids related Injuries Among Healthcare Workers in a Regional Level Referral Hospital (Bertoua, Cameroon)
Authors: Takougang Innocent , Cheuyem Fabrice Zobel Lekeumo , Ze Billy Ralph Sanding , Tsamoh Forlemu Fabiola , Moneboulou Hortense Mengong
Published: October 2023

Background
Healthcare workers (HCW) are exposed to infectious agents within biological materials including blood, tissues, other body fluids and on medical supplies, contaminated surfaces within the care delivery environment. The present study aimed to assess the level of exposure to body fluids and their related health risks at the Bertoua Regional Hospital.
Methods
We carried out a hospital-based cross-sectional study from 1st November 2020 to 31st May 2021. The exhaustive sampling method was used and all consenting HCWs were invited to participate. The study instrument was a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire addressing issues related to the experiences, circumstances of occurrence, reporting and management of occupational exposures to body fluids. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 20.4.
Results
The prevalence of accidental exposure to body fluids was 39.2%. Most cases of AEB occurred in the obstetrics and laboratory wards (p = 0.001). Nurses were the most affected professional group (51.7%). Lack of knowledge (79%), patient agitation (49%) were the most reported reasons explaining AEBs occurrence. Half of participants reported using PPE systematically. Face mask (59.2%) and gowns (30.8%) were the most mentioned PPE used to prevent splashes. Most HCWs did not report AEB (62%). Half of the affected HCWs (50.8%) reported that they received a course of post-exposure antiretroviral therapy. The Hepatitis B vaccination coverage was low (8.3%).
Conclusion
Accidental exposure to body fluids affected over 50% of HCWs in the studied Regional Hospital. Most cases of AEB occurred in the obstetrics and laboratory wards and nurses were the most affected professional group. Half of participants reported using PPE systematically. Hepatitis B vaccination coverage was low. There is need to strengthen the observance of standard precautions, including preventive vaccination and the systematic reporting of AEB.
Inhibition of Rab25 correlates with proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of foreskin fibroblasts via the β1- integrin/EGFR pathway in hypospadias
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Zhang Zhicheng , Liu Zhenmin , He Xueyu , Wang Chong , Luo Xingguo , Shen Lianju , Long Chunlan , Wei Guanghui , Liu Xing
Published: October 2023

Hypospadias is a common congenital abnormality of the penile. Abnormal spatiotemporal regulation of critical genes interfering with urethral development leads to hypospadias. This study investigated the role of Rab25 in hypospadias. The expression levels of various molecules in foreskin tissues and fibroblasts were confirmed using PCR, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting. Foreskin fibroblasts of silencing Rab25 were constructed by lentivirus transfection. Using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, Rab25−/− mice were generated. The biological functions of Rab25 were investigated using Cell Counting Kit-8 solution, flow cytometry, and wound scratch assays. The genital tubercles (GTs) of male wild-type (WT) and Rab25−/− fetal mice were collected on gestation day (GD) 18.5, and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to visualize the external morphology of GT. We observed that the foreskin tissues of patients with hypospadias expressed less Rab25, β1-integrin, and EGFR. Moreover, Rab25 inhibition downregulated the β1-integrin and EGFR expressions, restrained proliferation and migration, and promoted apoptosis in foreskin fibroblasts. Abnormal GT morphology with incomplete fusion of the urethral fold and expanded distal cleft was observed in Rab25−/− fetal mice. The distal mild hypospadias phenotype is reproduced in Rab25−/− fetal mice. It suggests that Rab25 plays an important role in the hypospadias via the β1-integrin/EGFR pathway.
Toxicological assessments of agrochemicals in stingless bees in Brazil: a systematic review
Authors: Botina Lorena Lisbetd , Barbosa Wagner Faria , Martins Gustavo Ferreira
Published: October 2023

The growing concern with the decline of pollinators worldwide is centered on honey bees, due to their wide distribution, economic, and ecological importance. This type of concern remained less evident for stingless bees, which are widely distributed in the Neotropics, until recently. Since exposure to agrochemicals has been identified as one of the potential threats to bees, the present systematic review compiled information from toxicological evaluations in stingless bees in Brazil, home to a considerable portion of the existing species. This systematic review was performed considering species, research institutions, scientific journals, metrics, experimental set ups, and agrochemicals. The first article in this topic was published in 2010. Since then, 85 scientific papers were published, which showed that there are few species of stingless bees used for toxicological evaluations and Brazilian institutions lead these evaluations. Only 3.69% of the stingless bees’ species that occur in Brazil were assessed through chronic exposure in the larval stage. The Universidade Federal de Viçosa is responsible for 36.47% of the total publications. The main route of exposure was acute, using adults in laboratory conditions. The main group of agrochemicals studied were insecticides, in particular the neonicotinoids. The current results reveal the advances achieved and point out the gaps that still need to be filled considering toxicological evaluations in stingless bees.
'We’re Still Here’: Reflections of the Post-Pandemic Digital Church
Authors: Campbell Heidi A. , Osteen Sophia , Sparks Grayson
Published: October 2023

This is the final research report of the "Tech in Churches During Covid-19" research project, a three-year study of churches in Indiana who received funds from the Center for Congregation's Connecting through Technology grant, which focused on the ways technology use during the global pandemic impacted churches experience and outlook. This report presents finding from a survey of 246 church leaders about technological decisions made during the global pandemic. The aim was to better understand churches' engagement with digital media, and compare their practices and attitudes toward technology before, during and after the pandemic. Findings from this report demonstrate a positive shift between 2020 and 2023 in congregational attitudes towards technology and online services. It also highlights how the size of the congregation and the age of religious leaders making technology decisions influenced the type of digital media used and how churches adapted to digital tools.
Uso del ATLAS.ti en la construcción de la Teoría fundamentada de los relatos de vida de los docentes de la Universidad de Guayaquil en el año 2023
Authors: Mendieta Toledo Lenin
Published: October 2023

El estudio emerge del proyecto Relatos de vida de profesores universitarios. Una aproximación biográfica y narrativa sobre los valores, ética y moral en la enseñanza los docentes de las universidades del Ecuador. El objetivo fue interpretar el uso del ATLAS.ti en la construcción de la Teoría Fundamentada del estudio Maestros Huella de la Universidad de Guayaquil en el periodo 2023. Fue un estudio exploratorio, cuantitativo, cualitativo e interpretativo, se empleó el método del discurso y la hermenéutica, las técnicas empleadas fueron la técnica Delphi o criterio de expertos, entrevistas y encuesta. Los resultados obtenidos en el momento cuantitativo dan cuenta que el 100% de los encuestados señalan la importancia del uso del ATLAS.ti en la construcción de la teoría fundamentada; en el momento cualitativo se realizó la codificación de los datos y se construyeron redes semánticas con el propio ATLAS.ti con base a la calidad en la investigación; codificación, redes neuronales y teoría fundamentada que permitieron interpretar para concluir que, la teoría fundamentada se puede extrapolar al campo de la educación; ATLAS.ti posee los umbrales de preparación de documentos, exploración, análisis, síntesis, teorización inicial, validación a través de la contrastación y triangulación, y teorizaciones emergentes desde la saturación de los datos con lo cual se llega a la construcción de la teoría fundamentada. la teoría fundamentada se construye más fácilmente desde la herramienta ATLAS.ti, esto resignifica el uso y valía de esta herramienta en la construcción de la teoría fundamentada en el estudio Maestros Huella de la Universidad de Guayaquil en el periodo 2023.
ADMINISTRACIÓN, CONTROL Y USO DE LOS BIENES EN LAS UNIVERSIDADES DEL ECUADOR
Authors: Castro Cedeño Diana Patricia , Quiñónez Cercado Mónica del Pilar , Calle García Aldrin Jefferson
Published: October 2023

Este estudio tuvo como finalidad abordar aspectos que involucran la administración, control y uso de los bienes que disponen en las universidades del Ecuador. Por lo cual se analizó cuatro exámenes especiales de auditorías efectuadas por la Contraloría General del Estado (CGE), donde se pudo constatar diversas irregularidades, principalmente en la gestión de los bienes, esto se pudo notar en la Universidad Central del Ecuador (UCE), Universidad Estatal de Milagro (UNEMI), Universidad Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabí (ULEAM) y la Universidad Técnica de Manabí (UTM), considerados como muestra de esta investigación, consiguiendo determinar que en las cuatro universidades mencionadas existen anomalías en cuanto a su administración, supervisión y uso de los bienes. De tal manera que los montos financieros examinados en esta investigación están alrededor de 26 889.960,4 USD entre los períodos comprendidos desde el 2011 hasta el 2022. La metodología utilizada en esta investigación, abordó la combinación de los enfoques deductivo e inductivo, así como el método analítico, lo cual permitió obtener una comprensión precisa y detallada de la situación de cada una de las universidades respecto a la temática planteada.
APLICABILIDAD DE LAS NORMAS DE CONTROL INTERNO: CASOS MUNICIPIOS DEL ECUADOR
Authors: Delgado Álvarez Luis Ignacio , Quiñónez Cercado Mónica del Pilar , Calle García Aldrin Jefferson
Published: October 2023

Las Normas de Control Interno (N.C.I) aluden directrices y lineamientos para asegurar una gestión eficiente y transparente en las instituciones estatales. Estas normas incluyen seis grupos que abarcan: normas generales, ambiente del control, también la evaluación de riesgo, las actividades del control, abarca la información y comunicación, así como también el seguimiento a las recomendaciones. Este estudio analizó la aplicabilidad de estas normas a cinco informes finales auditados por la Contraloría General del Estado (CGE) en diferentes municipios del Ecuador que son: Quito, Quinindé, Portoviejo, Manta y Esmeraldas los cuales serán temas de estudio en cuanto a sus procesos de fase preparatoria, fase precontractual, fase contractual y liquidación de contratos, obras, servicios y bienes. Mediante este análisis se pudo identificar diversas circunstancias legales incumplidas, de modo que varios grupos que estructuran las NCI fueron inobservadas e incumplidas reiteradamente en dichos informes. Entre sus significativas omisiones se encuentran las del grupo 400 de las NCI, tratándose de las actividades de control, seguido de estas se incumplen el grupo 600 en cuanto a el seguimiento y finalmente las normas generales, consideradas como el grupo 100 de las NCI. La metodología empleada en esta investigación es una integración de los enfoques deductivo e inductivo y analítico-sintético, lo cual permitió obtener una comprensión precisa de la aplicación de las normas, con el fin de detectar los incumplimientos para poder exponer sus resultados y conclusiones.
CULTURA ORGANIZACIONAL EN EL PROCESO DE ENSEÑANZAAPRENDIZAJE: ESCUELA “ENRIQUE GRAU RUIZ”, GUAYAQUIL
Authors: Holguín Gómez Nayelly Solange , Salazar Pin Ginger Elizabeth
Published: October 2023

El enfoque de este estudio se centra en evaluar la cultura organizacional y su incidencia en el proceso de enseñanza–aprendizaje de la Escuela Fiscal Mixta Enrique Grau Ruiz. El propósito principal es diagnosticar el estado actual de la cultura organizacional, además de identificar la incidencia en el proceso pedagógico, con el fin de proporcionar una educación de alta calidad. El método empleado es de naturaleza mixta, basándose en una encuesta realizada a la directora, docentes y padres de familia, además de hacer un análisis FODA de la institución. Los resultados obtenidos revelan que no existe una cultura organizacional bien definida, así es como manifestó el 48,3% de los encuestados, debido a que tienen un conocimiento limitado sobre este tema. Además, del análisis de las debilidades y amenazas que presenta la institución y del seguimiento continuo a las estrategias pedagógicas que con consideradas por un 52,2% de los encuestados.
GESTIÓN ADMINISTRATIVA Y SU ENFOQUE EN LA CALIDAD DEL SERVICIO AL USUARIO, COOPERATIVA “ALFARO 7”
Authors: Pin Navarro Adriana Jamileth , Salazar Pin Ginger Elizabeth
Published: October 2023

Este estudio tiene como objetivo analizar la influencia de la gestión administrativa en la calidad del servicio al usuario, además determinar el nivel en la calidad del servicio al usuario en la Cooperativa de Transporte de Automóviles Alfaro 7, ciudad de Portoviejo. La metodología empleada se basó en el modelo Servqual, consecuentemente con un diseño no experimental, puesto que se describe la situación de la cooperativa, también se señala la fiabilidad del estudio a través del coeficiente Alfa de Cronbach, se usó la entrevista dirigida al presidente y la encuesta a los usuarios, utilizando una muestra de 326 personas. Los principales resultados fueron que la gestión administrativa es ineficiente, puesto que no se realizan capacitaciones frecuentes y la carencia de planificación de rutas y horarios, por otra parte, en la calidad del servicio se determinó un índice negativo de (-0,59) estableciendo a la empatía como la dimensión más baja.
Competitiveness and technological capital as determining factors of exports in small and medium-sized companies
Authors: Rueda-Barrios Gladys , Mireya Valero Cordoba Gladys , Gonzalez-Bueno Jairo
Published: October 2023

This study explores international business integration, focusing on Colombian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It delves into the crucial aspects of competitiveness and technological capital influencing the export models of these SMEs. Using a questionnaire, responses were gathered from 63 Colombian SMEs exporting to 74 countries with 333 tariff positions. This analysis examines competitiveness factors like innovation, productivity, and business structure, as well as technological capital components such as R&D management, technological processes, and equipment, all tailored to the context of Colombian SMEs. The findings establish a comprehensive model elucidating direct and indirect relationships among these variables. They underscore the importance of strengthening competitiveness elements, particularly the infusion of technology into process and product innovation, alongside productivity and business structure rooted in the value derived from information technologies. Simultaneously, the study highlights the importance of nurturing employees’ physical, financial, and language skills within Colombian SMEs. This study accentuates the pivotal role of investment in technological capital aspects, including research and development management, personnel, and leveraging information technology, especially within Colombian SMEs. These investments are instrumental in augmenting performance and ensuring success in the international business arena. The paper contributes to both theoretical understanding and practical applications in enhancing the international competitiveness of Colombian SMEs.
Peculiarities of hydrogen peroxide use in dairy enterprises
Authors: Manevich B. , Burykina E.
Published: October 2023

The article substantiates the use of hydrogen peroxide solutions as a sterilant in the dairy industry enterprises in the processes of aseptic bottling. The consumer qualities of hydrogen peroxide with the estimation of the toxicological properties and potential danger of this substance have been considered. The brief analysis of the hydrogen peroxide market in Russia was carried out and the tasks of further research aimed at reducing the negative effects of the use of concentrated hydrogen peroxide solutions were outlined.
Reverse osmotic purification of permeates obtained by nanofiltration of dairy raw materials
Authors: Gavrish A. , Anisimov George S , Kravtsov V. , Evdokimov I. , Mamay D.
Published: October 2023

Permeate of nanofiltration of dairy raw materials (NFP) in modern industry is not considered as a waste from which it is advisable to extract valuable components. Its use, for example, for washing equipment or restoring dry products is problematic due to the high residual content of dry substances. Due to these circumstances, the NFP has not yet had practical significance and has not been described in detail in the scientific literature. The composition and properties of NFP obtained on industrial equipment have been studied. Its main components are lactose and typical mineral vemilk, with the exception of calcium and magnesium, the content of which did not exceed 10 mg / kg. NFP purification was carried out by filtration through a reverse osmotic membrane. Water samples obtained after NFP purification at pressure were studied 20–55 bar and different concentration factors. The specific electrical conductivity of water varied in the range of 34–273 microns / cm depending on the pressure and degree of concentration. Calculation of the cost of reverse osmotic purification of NFP, taking into account the consumption of electricity, service and detergents, amortization of equipment and membrane elements showed that, at cost, the water obtained from the NFP is comparable to the reverse osmotic obtained by filtration of mains water, with the volumes of processing of the NFP more than 200 m3 / day.
Starter cultures yesterday, today, tomorrow...
Authors: Sorokina N. , Kuraeva E.
Published: October 2023

The article considers the issues of providing the dairy industry with Russian-made bacterial sourdough, ways to solve the problem of import substitution, providing biofactories with collection cultures of lactic acid bacteria, the assortment and classification of bacterial starter cultures, features of the use of additional and protective cultures, compliance of the species composition of starter cultures with the requirements of the legislation of the Customs Union.
Biotechnological aspects of the production of curd products for specialized nutrition
Authors: Gavrilova N. , Ivanova N. , Chernopolskaya N.
Published: October 2023

The biotechnological aspects of fermentation of an effective food system enriched with milk protein for its use as a dairy base of a cottage cheese product are investigated. The formulation and technological parameters of production have been developed, the nutritional, biological and energy value of the new product have been studied. The scientific tasks and their solution are formulated using ultrafiltration technologies, fortification of the system with milk-protein concentrate, vitamin-mineral complex and functional ingredients in the form of a complex of probiotic cultures and a prebiotic — inulin. The indicators of the quality and safety of the curd product have been studied. The formulation and biotechnological parameters of the production of cottage cheese product were tested in the industrial conditions of JSC «Lyubinsky MKK». The curd product enriched with functional components can be used in specialized nutrition.
The problem of dairy products adulteration: analysis of the state and ways of resolution
Authors: Khan A. , Lazareva E. , Fomenko O.
Published: October 2023

The article discusses the problem of the quality of dairy products on the Russian market. The strategic importance of identifying cases of falsification is emphasized Existing methods for its detection are considered, their advantages and disadvantages are described. It is shown that in order to ensure the safety and quality standards of dairy products, it is necessary to regularly monitor raw materials and finished products, introduce a certification system for dairy group products and periodically improve the skills of production employees. Such measures will help prevent the manipulation of dairy products which can adversely affect the health of consumers. To achieve this goal, it is advisable to expand the area of evaluation criteria by a number of methods, including electrophoresis, chromatography, enzyme immunoassay, mass spectrometry, molecular genetics, etc. The article provides recommendations on the most appropriate methods for determining various sources of illegal milk substitution, including the replacement of valuable types of milk cheaper cow. The problem of falsification of dairy products remains relevant, especially in developing and underdeveloped countries. Solving this problem requires the

joint efforts of scientific and regulatory bodies.
Enrichment of dairy products with missing nutrients in the diet of Russians
Authors: Kodentsova V. , Risnik D.
Published: October 2023

The aim of the study is to analyze modern approaches to the enrichment of dairy products with missing nutrients in the diet — a complex of micronutrients and dietary fiber. Based on the presence of multiple micronutrient deficiencies in the population and taking into account the relationship of micronutrients in the organism, the most popular and effective is the enrichment of dairy products with a complex of vitamins and minerals in the form of multicomponent premixes. In recent years, β-glucans from various origins and apple pomace have been increasingly used as a source of dietary fiber. Cereal β-glucans have technological and biological properties. The dose of β-glucans for fermented milk products is in the range of 0,1–0,5 %, for cheeses and cheese-like products — 0,2–1,4 %, for ice cream and frozen desserts — 0,5–2,0 %. The advantage of apple pomace is the simultaneous high content of dietary fiber and antioxidant compounds. The introduction of dry pomace powder into the formulation of yogurt and fermented milk products at a dose of up to 3 % provides an improvement in technological parameters, an increase in syneresis and antioxidant properties of the product.