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Background: While longitudinal designs can provide significant advantages compared to single measurement/cross sectional designs, they require careful attention to study infrastructure and the risk of attrition among the sample over multiple time points. Objective: The strategies used to design and manage an appropriate infrastructure for a longitudinal study and approaches to retain samples are explored using examples from 2 studies, a 25-year study of persons living with multiple sclerosis and a 10-year longitudinal follow-up of breast cancer survivors. Results: Key strategies (developing appropriate infrastructure, minimizing costs to participants, and maximizing rewards of study participation) have helped address the serious threat of attrition in these longitudinal samples. Conclusion: Implementation of these strategies can help mitigate some of the disadvantages and leverage the strengths of longitudinal research to produce reliable, insightful, and impactful outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes an original definition of samples as a kind of data within the relational framework of data. The distinction between scientific objects (e.g., samples, data, models) often needs to be clarified in the philosophy of science to understand their role in the scientific inquiry. The relational framework places data at the forefront of knowledge construction. Their epistemic status depends on their evaluation as potential evidence in a research situation and their ability to circulate among researchers. While samples are significant in data-generating science, their role has been underexplored in the philosophy of data literature. I draw on a case study from data-centric microbiology, viz. amplicon sequencing, to introduce specifications of the relational framework. These specifications capture the distinctive epistemic role of samples, allowing the discussion of their significance in the inquiry process. I argue that samples are necessarily transformed to be considered as evidence, portable in the limits of a situation, and they act as world anchors for claims about a phenomenon. I compare these specifications with other data and evidence frameworks and suggest they are compatible. The paper concludes by considering the extension of these criteria in the context of biobanking. The specifications proposed here help analyze other life sciences cases and deepen our understanding of samples and their epistemological role in scientific research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The way by which the news is created and published has been changed by the appearance and the extensive adoption of the Semantic Web (SW) and the concepts of Social Media together with the growth of the Internet. The spread of Fake News (FN) is also prevalent. However, the recognition of FN from the disparate sentences of various website data becomes a challenging task. Hence, an FN detection system is developed in this paper by employing the proposed CKH_GAN model. The process is initiated by gathering data from the scraped dataset, which contains different news and tweets. Then, the acquired data is pre-processed to remove the repeated details, hashtags, and meaningless usernames. Further, the redundant website data are eliminated using the HDFS (Hadoop Distributed File System)-Map Reduce approach. Subsequently, the disparate characteristics, including grammar less and factual less sentences are detected and grouped based on the similarity measures by using the developed FTS-BERT (Fined Tuned Scaling-centered Bidirectional Encoder Representations from the Transformer) algorithm. Further, the informative features are extracted, and the significant features among them are chosen utilizing the proposed CP-EO (Cutting Plane method-centered Equilibrium Optimizer) technique. Eventually, based on the selected features, the FN and real news are categorized using the proposed CKH_GAN (Calculus Krill Herd based Generative Adversarial Networking (CKH_GANs) model for identifying the FN. The experimental outcomes exhibit that the proposed work detected FN with an accuracy of 95.89%, precision of 93.65%, f-score of 94.87%, FPR of 11.23%, and FNR of 10.98%, which are better than the other existing techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Citrobacter, a member of the Enterobacteriaceae family known to be a normal intestinal flora and an opportunistic pathogen is now increasingly found to cause a variety of infections in community as well as hospital settings. It was initially considered a low virulence pathogen but is now found to cause multi-drug resistant infections with high morbidity and mortality. To determine the prevalence of infections caused by Citrobacter spp. and theirAntibiotic sensitivity pattern. Material & Methods: A Laboratory records-based Cross-sectional study was undertaken retrospectively wherein the laboratory data about 50 Citrobacter spp. isolates obtained from 1628 clinical samples processed over 18 months were retrieved and analyzed at Department of Microbiology, Government Medical College-Datia, Central India in January 2024. Result: Out of the 1628 samples processed, significant bacterial growth was reported in 770 samples out of which 50 were found to be positive for Citrobacter spp. (6.4%). Isolation rate for Citrobacter spp. was reported to be 3.1 %.The majority of isolates were obtained from Urine (49%) and pus (45%) samples with C. koseri being dominant in urine and C. freundii in pus. Amongst these isolates, 52% were C.koseri, 46% were C.freundii and 4% were other species. Conclusion: The findings of the study conducted in January 2024 at Datia (Madhya Pradesh) indicate a change in susceptibility trends of emerging pathogens like Citrobacter spp. exhibiting resistance to routinely prescribed antimicrobials, stressing the need for an appropriate action plan involving periodic surveillance, antimicrobial stewardship, and strict implementation of infection control practices.

The Ataxia Global Initiative (AGI) aims to serve as a platform to facilitate clinical trial readiness for the hereditary ataxias. Clinical trials for these diseases have been hampered by the lack of objective measures to study disease onset, progression, and treatment efficacy. While these issues are not unique to the genetic ataxias, the relative rarity of these diseases makes the need for such measures even more pressing to achieve statistical power in clinical trials. In this report, we have described the efforts of the AGI fluid biomarker working group (WG) in developing uniform protocols for biomarker sampling and storage, both for human and preclinical studies in mice. By reducing collection variability, we anticipate reduced noise in downstream biomarker analysis that will improve statistical power and minimize the necessary sample size. The emphasis has been on defining and standardizing the sampling and pre-analytical work-up of minimal set of biological samples, specifically blood plasma and serum, keeping in mind the need for harmonization of collection and storage that can be achieved with relatively limited cost and resources. An optional package is detailed for those centers that have the resources and commitment for additional biofluids/sample processing and storage. Finally, we have delineated similar standardized protocols for mice that will be important for preclinical studies in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)/(1-x)CuCo2O4/xCuS (x = 0, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5) nanocomposites polymers were formed using hydrothermal, solid state and solvent casting procedures. The structure of the filler and polymer nano-composite samples were examined using an X-ray diffraction technique. The impacts of the (1-x)CuCo2O4/xCuS mixture on the diffuse absorption, transmittance, reflectance, extinction coefficient, refractive index, optical dielectric constant, energy loss functions and optical conductivity were investigated. The absorbance of PMMA/(1-x)CuCo2O4/xCuS changed depending on the percentage of CuS in the nanocomposite. The optical band gaps (Eg) for PMMA were 4.52 and 4.46 eV, directly and indirectly, respectively. The sample with x = 0.25 produced the lowest direct/indirect Eg values, 4.34 and 3.79 eV. The fluorescence spectra of the undoped and doped PMMA polymers were explored. Depending on the filler composition in the PMMA/(1-x)CuCo2O4/xCuS samples, the emitted colors could be modulated. The effects of the (1-x)CuCo2O4/xCuS mixture as a function of the dielectric constant, dielectric loss, ac conductivity and electric modulus of the host polymer were examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A molecular diagnostic laboratory is the cornerstone of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) disease diagnosis, as the patient’s treatment and management protocol depend on molecular results. Therefore, the laboratory conducting these tests must adhere to quality management process to increase the accuracy and validity of the generated reports. Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital established its molecular diagnostic set-up at the beginning of the pandemic. Hence, this study aims to generate quality management data to help improve weak points. Aim: To assess the quality management system for COVID-19 diagnosis. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted at Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital in Delhi, India. A total of 14,561 samples were collected over six months, from February 2021 to July 2021. Data from all samples received during this period for COVID-19 Reverse-Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) testing were included. Data were retrospectively collected from the electronic Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Quality variables were analysed over six months from July to December 2021 and classified into preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical variables. Quality Indicators (QIs) were selected from a common model of QIs set by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine. The results were presented in percentages, and descriptive statistics were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Results: During the six-month study period, the molecular laboratory received 14,561 samples. Among the preanalytical variables, sample leakage was the most common cause of sample rejection (134 samples, 0.92%), followed by the non generation of Specimen Referral Form (SRF) identification (76 samples, 0.52%), and non compliance with triple packaging (44 samples, 0.3%). Other preanalytical aspects assessed included incomplete patient identification (17 samples, 0.11%), insufficient sample quantity (12 samples, 0.08%), missing forms/samples (7 samples, 0.04%), samples in the wrong vials/empty Viral Transport Media (VTM) tubes (5 samples, 0.03%), and incomplete LIMS entry (2 samples, 0.01%). Internal Quality Control (QC) was not obtained in 55 samples (0.37%), and two incidents of cross-contamination resulted in false-positive results. Among the postanalytical factors, 11 samples (0.07%) could not be dispatched within the stipulated time frame. Conclusion: The assessment of the quality management system revealed some areas for improvement, emphasising the importance of adhering to QC processes for the smooth operation of diagnostic laboratories, especially those involved in critical reporting. The assessment of QIs helped monitor laboratory parameters effectively.

Complex processing of ash and slag waste is a supported directions for the development of environmental friendliness and performance in power engineering. The rational use of this waste in large-scale production processes has now been realized in the construction field. The development of up-to-date beneficiation technologies raises the possibility of extracting various useful components from ash and slag wastes. This study aims to investigate the potential for using energy-efficient ash beneficiation to produce a heavy metal-containing fraction and separate the magnetic fraction. To assess the feasibility of ash beneficiation and its rational use, the technical documentation of ash and slag dumps of PJSC “Magadanenergo” was studied, and semi-quantitative analyses of samples collected from these dumps were carried out. The data on the content of useful components and quantities of ash and slag enabled us to develop complex beneficiation flow sheets, assess their process efficiency, and evaluate their potential financial viability. The estimated volume of metals to be recovered includes 785 tons of Ti (me-1), 183 tons of Sr (me-2), and 4,867 tons of Fe (me-3). The performance indicators of the beneficiation and aggregated values of economic indicators for this project implementation on an industrial scale were calculated. The economic feasibility of the ash processing project showed good values for two out of three models over a ten-year planning horizon. Implementing the project also effectively improves the environmental situation by potentially processing up to 10% of the total volume of ash dumps, fulfilling one-fifth of the Energy Strategy of the Russian Federation’s requirements until 2035. While investigations of ash from the Magadan Cogeneration Power Plant (MCPP) are not new, they were not previously carried out within the framework of studying integrated processing of ash to obtain various useful components.

Contamination of the environment with the infectious animal disease agents is still a pressing problem for the poultry farms. Mycobacterium avium can grow and replicate in organic wastes from the poultry farms for a long time thus contaminating vast adjacent areas and being the source of infection not only for wild and domestic animals but also for humans. The studies were aimed at the examination of the duration of Mycobacterium avium survival in the natural environment in two geographical regions of the Republic of Dagestan characterized by different soil and climate. Samples of Mycobacterium avium-contaminated feces and soil collected from pastures and farmyards (on the surface and from 5 cm depth) were tested. The experiments demonstrated that pathogenic for chickens mycobacteria survived for up to 30 days in the samples collected in the sub-mountainous areas in summertime, when the air temperature ranged from 15.1 to 30 °С, land surface temperature – from 17 to 38 °С, air humidity – from 44 to 94% and average monthly precipitation amounted to 1.5 mm. From September to May, with the air temperature ranging from –10.8 to +25 °C, land surface temperature from –14 to +30 °C, air humidity 26–100% and average precipitation 0.39 mm, the bacteria survived for up to 213 days on the soil surface on the pastures and farmyards, and for up to 243 days at the depth of 5 cm and in the feces. In the plain area, in the same time period in the slightly saline soil with high humus content and at air temperature from –11.9 to +27.3 °C, soil temperature from –13 to +45 °C, air humidity from 37 to 100% and average precipitation 20.4 mm, Mycobacterium avium survived just like in the sub-mountainous area, i.e. for 213 and 243 days, respectively. The post-mortem lesions in the internal organs of the poultry corresponded to the tuberculosis clinical signs in 86 of 171 birds (50.3%). The study results will allow for the development of the optimal algorithm for animal health and management measures aimed at tuberculosis eradication on the poultry farms.

Plasma fluctuation dispersion has been theoretically and experimentally studied in monocrystal samples of Si (111) and Ge (111). It has been shown that the dispersion depends on crystallographic orientations of materials under study. In this work, the dispersion effects in the CLEE spectra, which manifest themselves in bulk samples of Si and Ge, have been studied. The loss energy electron was studied by the CLEE method upon their reflection from Si(111) and Ge(111) at different angles of incidence of the electron beam on the surface. Calculation of the total electron energy loss with formula (5) shows that the form of the CLEE spectrum of primary electrons depends on the nature and magnitude of the electron density in a given direction and is in satisfactory agreement with the experimental data. Thus, the theoretical and experimental results show that in the case of single-crystalline Si and Ge, with increasing k, the values of the bulk plasma oscillation increase by 2–3 eV.

ABSTRACTIn China, a nation facing farmland scarcity, accurate mapping of winter fallow arable lands is crucial for enhancing crop rotation and land use efficiency. The Dynamic Threshold (DT) method commonly used in phenology and winter fallow land studies often employs empirically set subjective thresholds. This approach tends to uniformly apply a single threshold across diverse vegetation types and geographical regions, neglecting the variations in physiological traits and spatial heterogeneity. This study developed a multitemporal overlapping area minimization threshold method (MOAMT). This approach constructed Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) probability density functions for both winter fallow and non-winter fallow arable land across a time series to attain a statistically significant threshold. We use MOAMT and DT methods for winter fallow arable land extraction in southern China, respectively. And then, comparison of identification accuracy between MOAMT and DT has been implemented by using confusion matrix method. Compared to the DT method, MOAMT exhibits better performance. The mapping of winter fallow arable lands highlighted their predominant distribution in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River (MLR-YR) Basin, covering approximately 20.8 million hectares, with potential for development. This study will provide information support for the optimization of planting layouts in China, offering new opportunities for further increasing grain production. While in the sense of research approach, this study indicates the superiority of threshold obtained through statistical probability calibration over empirical universal thresholds for classification accuracy. We advocate for prioritizing threshold calibration in future applications of threshold classification methods.

Introduction: A molecular diagnostic laboratory is the cornerstone of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) disease diagnosis, as the patient's treatment and management protocol depend on molecular results. Therefore, the laboratory conducting these tests must adhere to quality management process to increase the accuracy and validity of the generated reports. Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital established its molecular diagnostic set-up at the beginning of the pandemic. Hence, this study aims to generate quality management data to help improve weak points. Aim: To assess the quality management system for COVID-19 diagnosis. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted at Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital in Delhi, India. A total of 14,561 samples were collected over six months, from February 2021 to July 2021. Data from all samples received during this period for COVID-19 Reverse-Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) testing were included. Data were retrospectively collected from the electronic Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Quality variables were analysed over six months from July to December 2021 and classified into preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical variables. Quality Indicators (QIs) were selected from a common model of QIs set by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine. The results were presented in percentages, and descriptive statistics were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Results: During the six-month study period, the molecular laboratory received 14,561 samples. Among the preanalytical variables, sample leakage was the most common cause of sample rejection (134 samples, 0.92%), followed by the non generation of Specimen Referral Form (SRF) identification (76 samples, 0.52%), and non compliance with triple packaging (44 samples, 0.3%). Other preanalytical aspects assessed included incomplete patient identification (17 samples, 0.11%), insufficient sample quantity (12 samples, 0.08%), missing forms/samples (7 samples, 0.04%), samples in the wrong vials/empty Viral Transport Media (VTM) tubes (5 samples, 0.03%), and incomplete LIMS entry (2 samples, 0.01%). Internal Quality Control (QC) was not obtained in 55 samples (0.37%), and two incidents of cross-contamination resulted in false-positive results. Among the postanalytical factors, 11 samples (0.07%) could not be dispatched within the stipulated time frame. Conclusion: The assessment of the quality management system revealed some areas for improvement, emphasising the importance of adhering to QC processes for the smooth operation of diagnostic laboratories, especially those involved in critical reporting. The assessment of QIs helped monitor laboratory parameters effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prizren is one of the largest cities in Kosovo, with a population of 177,781 inhabitants, spread over a territory of 627 km² or 5.94% of the territory of Kosovo. This municipality has 76 settlements, with a 94,517 people urban population, and 83,264 inhabitants as a rural population. The city's clean water supply is provided by a single safe drinking water company, which supplies water from underground sources, while a good part of the settlements is provided from their local sources, including storage basins and catchments. The study presents the process of controlling and monitoring water quality for human consumption, especially bacterial contamination. Sampling was carried out in cooperation with the Laboratory of the Institute of Public Health in Prizren, where bacteriological analyses were carried out. They were collected in total 16 samples. The samples were transported to the laboratories in sterilized containers, according to WHO guidelines. All samples were tested for counting: total coliform bacteria, coliform bacteria of fecal origin, total bacteria of aerobic mesophilic bacteria, and Streptococcus spp. of fecal origin by classical methods. For large analysis or R3 for testing, 16 water samples were taken. The samples were taken at different collection points such as: at the sources known as the "40 wells" and at households. 8 water samples were taken at water sources and 8 other samples were taken at different points in households or schools. It turns out that out of 16 drinking water samples, only one was outside the standards. The same sample comes from the direct source and represents the untreated water. From the results found, it appears that the consumption of untreated water should be avoided. First-line protection of water sources should be added. Water treatment and production plants should increase cooperation with laboratories for water analysis and compliance with drinking water quality standards. It is necessary to educate and train the personnel responsible for monitoring water quality and providing it safely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gazi Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Dergisi Part C: Tasarım ve Teknoloji is the property of Gazi University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of China Fiber Inspection is the property of China Fiber Inspection and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Large-scale reference genome sequencing projects for all of biodiversity are underway and common standards have been in place for some years to enable the understanding and sharing of sequence data. However, the metadata that describes the collection, processing and management of samples, and link to the associated sequencing and genome data, are not yet adequately developed and standardised for these projects. At the time of writing, the Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) Project is over two years into its ten-year ambition to sequence all described eukaryotic species in Britain and Ireland. We have sought consensus from a wide range of scientists across taxonomic domains to determine the minimal set of metadata that we collectively deem as critically important to accompany each sequenced specimen. These metadata are made available throughout the subsequent laboratory processes, and once collected, need to be adequately managed to fulfil the requirements of good data management practice. Due to the size and scale of management required, software tools are needed. These tools need to implement rigorous development pathways and change management procedures to ensure that effective research data management of key project and sample metadata is maintained. Tracking of sample properties through the sequencing process is handled by Lab Information Management Systems (LIMS), so publication of the sequenced data is achieved via technical integration of LIMS and data management tools. Discussions with community members on how metadata standards need to be managed within large-scale programmes is a priority in the planning process. Here we report on the standards we developed with respect to a robust and reusable mechanism of metadata collection, in the hopes that other projects forthcoming or underway will adopt these practices for metadata.

AbstractComputational modelling is a technique for modelling and solving real-world problems by utilising computing to provide solutions. This paper presents a novel predictive model of cell survival/death-related effects of Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase Protein. The computational model was designed using Neural Networks and fuzzy system. Three hundred ERK samples were examined using ten different concentrations of three input proteins: EGF, TNF, and insulin. Based on the different concentrations of input proteins and different samples of ERK protein, adjustment Anderson darling (AD) statistics for multiple distribution functions were computed considering different test such as visual test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and uniformity tests. The results reveal that utilising different concentrations and samples, values such as 7.55 AD and 18.4 AD were obtained using the Weibull distribution function for 0 ng/ml of TNF, 100 ng/ml of EGF, and 0 ng/mL of insulin concentrations. The model was validated by predicting the various ERK protein values that fall within the observed range. The proposed model agrees with the deterministic model, which was developed using difference equations.

Computational modelling is a technique for modelling and solving real-world problems by utilising computing to provide solutions. This paper presents a novel predictive model of cell survival/deathrelated effects of Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase Protein. The computational model was designed using Neural Networks and fuzzy system. Three hundred ERK samples were examined using ten different concentrations of three input proteins: EGF, TNF, and insulin. Based on the different concentrations of input proteins and different samples of ERK protein, adjustment Anderson darling (AD) statistics for multiple distribution functions were computed considering different test such as visual test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and uniformity tests. The results reveal that utilising different concentrations and samples, values such as 7.55 AD and 18.4 AD were obtained using the Weibull distribution function for 0 ng/ml of TNF, 100 ng/ml of EGF, and 0 ng/mL of insulin concentrations. The model was validated by predicting the various ERK protein values that fall within the observed range. The proposed model agrees with the deterministic model, which was developed using difference equations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consumption of milk and milk products within the year in Kosovo is calculated to be over 175 kg per capita. The purpose of this research was to see the impact of the implementation of good work practices and the HACCP system in the prevention of crosscontamination with pathogenic microorganisms in work tools, spaces and personnel of milk processing industries. Samples for analysis were taken in two milk processing factories, factory A in the region of Prizren - without implemented HACCP system and factory B in the region of Fushë - with implemented HACCP system. A total of 80 samples, 40 samples for each industry, were taken and analyzed in the working tools, spaces and personnel of the factories. The samples were taken according to Codex Alimentarius and analyzed for hazardous microbes' presence according to ISO standards. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and an independent sample t-test. From the results of the research, we conclude that in factory A - without the implementation of the HACCP system, 32.5% of the samples were positive with microorganisms such as: E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Enterococcus spp., Klebsiella spp., and Citrobacter spp., whereas in factory B - with the implementation of the HACCP system, 6.8% of the samples were positive with microorganisms such as: Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Enterococcus spp., and Citrobacter spp. Although the milk processing factory which has implemented good work practices and the HACCP system, significantly reduces pathogenic microorganisms such as: E. coli, Klebsiella spp. etc., in the work tools, spaces and personnel, it has not been possible to completely eliminate microorganisms within the technological process. Therefore a new implementation of the HACCP system would be the right choice in these cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Iraqi National Journal of Earth Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The problematic field of the article focuses on aspects of genre and style transformation of well-known musical content that is recognizable and stylistically significant. In contemporary non-academic art, the established semantics of the original source is subject to change under the influence of a new creative rethinking, the possibilities of which are only increasing in the context of the technologies of the twenty-first century. These possibilities are embodied in various visual formats: from direct citation to borrowing or processing with its variations. The relevance of this topic lies in the need to study the phenomenon of citation as such, as well as to research and systematize other means of genre and style transformation of musical material. The direct object of the study is mostly music of the so-called “light” genres, music of mass culture, due to more mobile, transparent and visual observation opportunities. The author offers a self-made classification of possible methods of borrowing someone else’s text as a means of compositional technique, as well as of individual genres: cover, remake, borrowing, allusion, sampling. In the context of the study of the phenomenon of “musical text”, the peculiarities of realization and perception of the artistic and integral result are traced. As a result, several types of citation that have become widespread in contemporary music are distinguished.

For the production of wood composite materials, adhesives based on cheap and affordable, but harmful urea-formaldehyde resins are mainly used. Given the substantial production volumes of such materials, it is important to find environmental solutions to reduce formaldehyde emissions during their pressing and subsequent operation. The purpose of the study was to present the results of a study on the use of magnesium oxide nanoparticles to bind unreacted formaldehyde in wood composite materials. Analysis of methods for manufacturing metal nanoparticles allowed determining a priority method that allows obtaining ultrafine structures with a size not exceeding 100 nm, namely, the method of volumetric electric spark dispersion of metals in a liquid. Investigating the morphology of magnesium nanoparticles allowed determining that they have an almost crystalline form formed from the vapour phase, with an average particle length not exceeding 100 nm. The results of spectral analysis of the element composition in the nanophase, specifically magnesium and oxygen, demonstrated that the magnesium content does not exceed 32.2%, while oxygen constitutes 67.78%. This indicates that divalent magnesium oxide does not have a pronounced metallic phase, which would interfere with the sorption processes of formaldehyde. The conducted examinations of formaldehyde emission of samples of particle boards with modified magnesium oxide nanoparticles in concentrations of 2% and 8% glue based on urea-formaldehyde resin showed mixed results. Compared to the control samples, the formaldehyde level remained almost unchanged on the second day of follow-up, and for a concentration of 2%, it even increased by 6%. However, by the sixteenth and ninetieth day, a reduction in the level of free formaldehyde emissions was observed at 19% and 22% respectively. The results obtained can be used to improve the production of non-harmful particle boards with improved properties

Objective: Many reports of bacteriuria in domestic animals allude that animals may serve as hosts and means of spreading zoonotic pathogenic and multidrug-resistant bacteria via contamination of the environment with their urine. This cross-sectional study determined the bacterial load of urine from slaughtered cattle. It investigated the resistance to antimicrobials and pathogenicity potentials of the Gram-negative bacteria recovered from urine samples. Materials and Methods: Urine samples were obtained from 52 slaughtered cattle at the Wurukum Abattoir, Makurdi, Benue State, within a month. Standard microbiological procedures were used to process the samples for the isolation and identification of bacteria. Disc diffusion technique was used to determine the antibiogram of the isolates. Standard procedures also were deployed to examine the expression of virulence factors. Results: Bacteria were isolated from 20 of the 52 urine samples, with the positive samples yield¬ing total aerobic and coliform counts of 2.8 × 103 − 9.1 ×105 and 2.5 × 102 − 3.3 × 105 CFU/ml, respectively. Species of Gram-negative bacilli identified were Escherichia coli (n = 10), Tatumella ptyseous (n = 4), Acinetobacter baumannii (n = 2), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 1). The isolates were all resistant to at least three antimicrobial classes. All the isolates were resistant to the bac¬tericidal action of the serum, while 2 (11.8%) were hemolytic on blood agar. Conclusion: Adequate veterinary examination of slaughtered cattle before presenting for slaugh¬ter is imperative to reduce the contamination of the meat and environment with the urine of cattle with elevated levels of bacteriuria. [Vet. Res. Notes 2023; 3(5.000): 36-42]

The problematic field of the article focuses on aspects of genre and style transformation of well-known musical content that is recognizable and stylistically significant. In contemporary non-academic art, the established semantics of the original source is subject to change under the influence of a new creative rethinking, the possibilities of which are only increasing in the context of the technologies of the twenty-first century. These possibilities are embodied in various visual formats: from direct citation to borrowing or processing with its variations. The relevance of this topic lies in the need to study the phenomenon of citation as such, as well as to research and systematize other means of genre and style transformation of musical material. The direct object of the study is mostly music of the so-called “light” genres, music of mass culture, due to more mobile, transparent and visual observation opportunities. The author offers a self-made classification of possible methods of borrowing someone else’s text as a means of compositional technique, as well as of individual genres: cover, remake, borrowing, allusion, sampling. In the context of the study of the phenomenon of “musical text”, the peculiarities of realization and perception of the artistic and integral result are traced. As a result, several types of citation that have become widespread in contemporary music are distinguished. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, Irad Kimhi has argued that negation and falsehood can be made intelligible by understanding assertions/judgements as acts of two-way logical capacities. These are capacities that are, at the same time, for (1) positive and negative assertions/judgements and (2) positive and negative facts. Kimhi’s account of negation and falsehood, however, faces severe problems. I argue that these problems can be resolved, and that a new understanding of cases of negation and falsehood can be achieved, by regarding two-way logical capacities for assertion/judgement and facts as established and undergirded by what Ludwig Wittgenstein calls “samples”. The standard metre sample, for instance, establishes and undergirds the capacity for asserting that something, x, is one metre long (meaning: x is like the standard metre in length). At the same time, it establishes and undergirds the capacity for the fact that x is one metre long (when x is like the standard metre in length). As I explain, invoking samples means we cannot say, as Kimhi wants to, what assertion/judgement, negation, and facts, in general, are but can only show what they are, one case at a time. This, however, is a boon not a disadvantage.

For the production of wood composite materials, adhesives based on cheap and affordable, but harmful urea-formaldehyde resins are mainly used. Given the substantial production volumes of such materials, it is important to find environmental solutions to reduce formaldehyde emissions during their pressing and subsequent operation. The purpose of the study was to present the results of a study on the use of magnesium oxide nanoparticles to bind unreacted formaldehyde in wood composite materials. Analysis of methods for manufacturing metal nanoparticles allowed determining a priority method that allows obtaining ultrafine structures with a size not exceeding 100 nm, namely, the method of volumetric electric spark dispersion of metals in a liquid. Investigating the morphology of magnesium nanoparticles allowed determining that they have an almost crystalline form formed from the vapour phase, with an average particle length not exceeding 100 nm. The results of spectral analysis of the element composition in the nanophase, specifically magnesium and oxygen, demonstrated that the magnesium content does not exceed 32.2%, while oxygen constitutes 67.78%. This indicates that divalent magnesium oxide does not have a pronounced metallic phase, which would interfere with the sorption processes of formaldehyde. The conducted examinations of formaldehyde emission of samples of particle boards with modified magnesium oxide nanoparticles in concentrations of 2% and 8% glue based on urea-formaldehyde resin showed mixed results. Compared to the control samples, the formaldehyde level remained almost unchanged on the second day of follow-up, and for a concentration of 2%, it even increased by 6%. However, by the sixteenth and ninetieth day, a reduction in the level of free formaldehyde emissions was observed at 19% and 22% respectively. The results obtained can be used to improve the production of non-harmful particle boards with improved properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate and affordable tools for diagnosing anemia and its main determinants are essential for understanding the magnitude and distribution of the problem and the appropriate interventions needed for its timely prevention and treatment. The objective of this review is to address methods, equipment, and sample‐related and quality control aspects of hemoglobin measurement for anemia diagnosis. Also, other iron‐, infectious‐, and genetic‐related causes of anemia are addressed in individuals and populations. The best practice for hemoglobin determination is the use of venous blood, analyzed on automated hematology analyzers, with high‐quality control measures in place. The importance of a correct anemia diagnosis is highlighted by the cost of a misdiagnosis. A false‐negative diagnosis may result in missing out and not treating anemia, its causes, and its adverse effects. On the other hand, a false‐positive diagnosis may result in the provision of unneeded treatment or referral for expensive laboratory tests to determine a cause of anemia, wasting valuable resources and risking causing harm. At the individual level, clinicians must understand the causes of absolute and functional anemia to diagnose and treat anemia at the clinical level. Actions toward anemia diagnosis and control at public health levels require global, regional, and country actions that should cover general and context‐specific characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ontlametse T Bareng,1,2 Wonderful T Choga,1,2 Segomotso T Maphorisa,3 Sekgabo Seselamarumo,1 Kaelo K Seatla,1 Patrick T Mokgethi,1,4 Dorcas Maruapula,1,4 Mompati L Mogwele,1 Doreen Ditshwanelo,1,5 Natasha O Moraka,1 Irene Gobe,2 Modisa S Motswaledi,2 Joseph M Makhema,1,6 Rosemary Musonda,1 Roger Shapiro,1,6 Max Essex,1,6 Vlad Novitsky,1 Sikhulile Moyo,1,2,6 Simani Gaseitsiwe1,6 1Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana; 2School of Allied Health Professions, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana; 3Ministry of Health and Wellness, Republic of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana; 4Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana; 5Department of Biological Science and Biotechnology, Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Palapye, Botswana; 6Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USACorrespondence: Simani Gaseitsiwe, Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Private Bag BO320, Bontleng, Gaborone, Botswana, Tel +267 390 2671, Fax +267 390 1284, Email sgaseitsiwe@bhp.org.bwPurpose: Monitoring HIV-1 drug resistance mutations (DRM) in treated patients on combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) with a detectable HIV-1 viral load (VL) is important for the selection of appropriate cART. Currently, there is limited data on HIV DRM at low-level viremia (LLV) (VL 401– 999 copies/mL) due to the use of a threshold of VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL for HIV DRM testing. We here assess the performance of an in-house HIV drug resistance genotyping assay using plasma for the detection of DRM at LLV.Methods: We used a total of 96 HIV plasma samples from the population-based Botswana Combination Prevention Project (BCPP). The samples were stratified by VL groups: 50 samples had LLV, defined as 401– 999 copies/mL, and 46 had ≥ 1000 copies/mL. HIV pol (PR and RT) region was amplified and sequenced using an in-house genotyping assay with BigDye sequencing chemistry. Known HIV DRMs were identified using the Stanford HIV Drug Resistance Database. Genotyping success rate between the two groups was estimated and compared using the comparison of proportions test.Results: The overall genotyping success rate was 79% (76/96). For VL groups, the genotyping success was 72% (36/50) at LLV and 87% (40/46) at VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL. Among generated sequences, the overall prevalence of individuals with at least 1 major or intermediate-associated DRM was 24% (18/76). The proportions of NNRTI-, NRTI- and PI-associated resistance mutations were 28%, 24%, and 0%, respectively. The most predominant mutations detected were K103N (18%) and M184V (12%) in NNRTI- and NRTI-associated mutations, respectively. The prevalence of DRM was 17% (6/36) at LLV and 30% (12/40) at VL ≥ 1000 copies/mL.Conclusion: The in-house HIV genotyping assay successfully genotyped 72% of LLV samples and was able to detect 17% of DRM amongst them. Our results highlight the possibility and clinical significance of genotyping HIV among individuals with LLV.Keywords: in-house genotyping, low-level viremia, samples, HIV-1C drug resistance testing

Objective To analyze the status of proficiency testing samples in the field of laboratory animal testing, and to evaluate the role of the testing samples in the laboratory animal laboratory proficiency testing program.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted to compare the 30 proficiency testing plans and reports in the field of laboratory animal organized by National Institute for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC) from 2013 to 2022. The type, quantity, preparation method, homogeneity and stability of the proficiency testing samples, as well as the satisfaction of the participating units to the samples were analyzed. Then, the supply of new samples, the addition of quantitative projects, the improvement of stability research and the attention to customer needs were discussed.ResultsThe 30 proficiency testing programs included 10 items in the direction of bacteria, 10 items in the direction of virus and 10 items in the direction of genetics in the field of experimental animals. A total of 80 non-nucleic acid samples (including serums, feces, tracheal flushing fluid and proteins) and 4 nucleic acid samples were provided, all of which were qualitative samples. Compared with nucleic acid samples, non-nucleic acid samples always required large numbers of animals for sample preparation. The pass rate of homogeneity verification of the sample was 100%, but there is no quantitative study at present. Stability verification can be conducted for the short-term storage, transportation, freeze-thaw, different concentrations and terminal stability of different samples, but it lacks long-term stability verification.ConclusionIn the past ten years, the proficiency testing samples have basically met the basic requirements of the proficiency testing plan of laboratory animal testing area. However, the provision of nucleic acid samples should be reasonably increased; quantitative research samples and projects should be added; the influence of proficiency testing in the field of laboratory animal testing should be continuously expanded and maintain high-quality services.

Recognizing and classifying natural or artificial geo-objects under complex geo-scenes using remotely sensed data remains a significant challenge due to the heterogeneity in their spatial distribution and sampling bias. In this study, we propose a deep learning method of surface complexity analysis based on multiscale entropy. This method can be used to reduce sampling bias and preserve entropy-based invariance in learning for the semantic segmentation of land use and land cover (LULC) images. Our quantitative models effectively identified and extracted local surface complexity scores, demonstrating their broad applicability. We tested our method using the Gaofen-2 image dataset in mainland China and accurately estimated multiscale complexity. A downstream evaluation revealed that our approach achieved similar or better performance compared to several representative state-of-the-art deep learning methods. This highlights the innovative and significant contribution of our entropy-based complexity analysis and its applicability in improving LULC semantic segmentations through optimal stratified sampling and constrained optimization, which can also potentially be used to enhance semantic segmentation under complex geo-scenes using other machine learning methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to test the creative ability to reuse prefabricated textile parts in the production of home supplements that bear both functional and aesthetic meanings. The study used the analytical descriptive curriculum. The sample of the study consisted of 110 residents of the governorate of El Jarshi, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire was used as a tool for study, and after data collection, it was analyzed by appropriate statistical analysis methods using SPSS. The results indicated that about 86% of the target groups use leisure time for manual work, and that about two-thirds of the sample, uses fabric pieces for decoration. This result is important and demonstrates an awareness among the target groups of the importance of reusing prefabricated fabric parts, and that the reuse of prefabricated fabric parts is of high importance (79.1%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maize is the stable food in Kenya. However, its production has been jeopardized by the high prevalence of fungi in most developing countries and the whole world at large. Some fungi produce mycotoxins which threaten human lives. Methods: This study aimed at isolating fungi from selected Counties in Kenya. Maize samples were ground using a kitchen blender and cultured on Potato Dextrose agar at 28°C for 7 d. The fungal isolates were identified using morphological and cultural characteristics. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0 software. Result: The mean fungal isolates varied from 10.8±0.2 CFU/g in Wallenia spp. to 47.4±0.2CFU/g in Aspergillus spp. The most common fungal isolates were Aspergillus spp., Fusarium spp. and Penicilium spp. The Mean fungal isolates from the selected Counties varied from Kitui (9.6±0.2 CFU/g), Machakos (9.7±0.3CFU/g), Bungoma (25±0.1CFU/g), Migori (25.3±0.3CFU/g), Kericho (25.3±0.2CFU/g), Kisumu (27.1±0.1CFU/g), Meru (27.1±0.2CFU/g), Kisii (28.5±0.1CFU/g) and Trans-Nzoia (30.1±0.3CFU/g). The number of spores in maize samples from baskets varied from 13.6±0.2-19.6±0.2, polypropylene (24.0±0.2-24.0±0.2), Jute (13.6±0.2-21.6±0.2) and polythene bag (48.0±0.2-72.0±0.2) CFU/g. Conclusion: This study established that maize in the selected Counties is highly contaminated by pathogenic fungi. The most prevalent fungal spp. were Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium. The best maize storage material for maize were baskets. There is need of identifying the most prevalent fungi up to the molecular level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Nővér is the property of Chamber of Hungarian Health Care Professionals and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The rapid optimization of laser quenching process parameters were studied. First of all, the experiment is carried out by orthogonal method, which achieves the purpose of finding the influence law of process parameters with a small number of samples. Then, the neural network modeling is used, the process parameters and the experimental results are functionally fitted, and the model is continuously revised by reducing the feedback error, and finally the prediction model with the smallest error is obtained. Finally, the genetic algorithm is used to quickly search for optimization, and based on the prediction model, population selection, crossover, mutation and iteration are used to obtain the optimal fitness and corresponding variable value.

Despite the proliferation of studies on esports, there is a lack of consensus as to as the precise definition of an esports player. Studies have used competitive gamers, casual gamers, or recreational gamers as samples, and this poses serious issues for the generalization of their results. The main goal of this review is to reach a definition as to what constitutes an esports player in order to establish a standard for future studies. This is accomplished by analyzing the various criteria that esports researchers have used to select their participants. Methods: This study is a systematic review of empirical articles. The international databases Web of Science, Scopus, Medline, SciELO, and SpringerLink were reviewed for articles in English and Spanish including the term esport or e-sport in the title, abstract or keywords, with samples reported as esports players. A total of 48 studies were selected for this review. Three types of defining criteria were identified: being a professional player, being part of an organized team and having experience in competitions. Additionally, “engagement ‘’, understood as the amount of time dedicated to training and improving, is also mentioned as a key distinguishing factor. Finally, a definition for esports players is proposed to help standardize the sampling criteria for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional data processing applications are unsuitable for handling large amounts of data. To achieve an efficient manipulation and extraction of characteristics or samples that the information represents, it is necessary to know aspects such as data collection and treatment. In this document, a database corresponding to the behavior of electrical energy consumption in a residential load was refined. The debugging and statistical analysis of the samples were carried out using the principal component analysis. The training of the smallest data set to the original database was made using vector support machine techniques and artificial neural networks. Finally, a proposal is presented for the analysis of samples that are within the operating limits or not using updating dynamic patterns for the unsupervised validation of new samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular caries occurs in the early childhood (1-1.5 year), immediately after the eruption of deciduous teeth. Considering the fact that early detection and treatment on circular caries is the key to complete elimination, the aim of this research is the early diagnosis of circular caries in the initial stage by examining the ultrastructural changes and changes of mineral compose calcium and phosphorus (Ca and P) in starting phase of circular caries -initial lesion, white spot (macula alba), before and after topical fluoride treatment. For laboratory trials realization, the primary incisors were extracted during their physical change and three groups of deciduous teeth samples were formed: I group - the testing group of ten untreated extracted maxillary incisors with initial lesion, II group- a control group of twenty extracted healthy mandibular incisors and group III - the testing group of ten extracted maxillary incisors with initial lesion, treated with topical fluoride preparation. The laboratory examinations were completed within the Institute of Medical Diagnostics and Research in the Biomedical and Natural Sciences, at the Faculty of Medicine in Nis, Serbia, with Scanning Electron Microscope (EDS) and Energy Dispersed Spectrometer (EDS). In this trial we conducted ultrastructural changes and changes of tested minerals (Ca and P) in enamel of three teeth samples groups. Results showed a significant effect of topical fluoride treatment indicating significant remineralization process in the initial lesion. The conclusion was that the early detection of initial lesion is very important because the early caries process in the fluoride presence can be completely stopped or reversed (biological repair). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Compendium of Veterinary Sciences / Compendio de Ciencias Veterinarias is the property of Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias de la Universidad Nacional de Asuncion and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)