Classification of Abandoned Areas for Solar Energy Projects Using Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Mechanics

The increasing demand for energy has intensified recently, requiring alternative sources to fossil fuels, which have become economically and environmentally unfeasible. On the other hand, the increasing land occupation in recent centuries is a growing problem, demanding greater efficiency, particularly in the reuse of abandoned areas, which has become an alternative. An interesting alternative would be installing energy facilities like solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal, in these areas. The objective of this paper is to develop a classification methodology, based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum Theory (QT), to automatically carry out the classification of abandoned areas suitable for the settlement of these power plants. Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) improved by the hybrid algorithm Quantum-behaved Particle Swarm Optimization (QPSO) together with the Levenberg-Marquardt Algorithm (LMA) were used for the classification task. In terms of Mean Squared Error (MSE), the QPSO-LMA approach achieved a decrease of 19.6% in relation to the classical LMA training with random initial weights. Moreover, the model’s accuracy showed an increase of 7.3% for the QPSO-LMA over the LMA. To validate this new approach, it was also tested on six different datasets available in the UCI Machine Learning Repository and seven classical techniques established in the literature. For the problem of installing photovoltaic plants in abandoned areas, the knowledge acquired with the solar dataset can be extrapolated to other regions.

Body condition score prior to parturition is associated with plasma and adipose tissue biomarkers of lipid metabolism and inflammation in Holstein cows

Background: Previous research has revealed a strong inflammatory response within adipose(AT) tissue during the transition into lactation. Whether this effect is a result of oxidative stress induced by lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation associated with differences in prepartum body condition score remains to be determined. The objectives of this study were to investigate systemic biomarkers of energy balance and inflammation and the expression of lipid metabolismand inflammation-related genes in AT during the transition period in dairy cows.Results: Twenty multiparous Holstein cows were retrospectively divided by body condition score(BCS) prior to parturition into two groups(10 cows/group): BCS ≤ 3.25(Lo BCS) and BCS ≥ 3.75(Hi BCS). Subcutaneous adipose tissue was biopsied from the tail-head region at d-10, 7 and 20 relative to parturition. Plasma was used to evaluate biomarkers of energy balance(EBAL) [free fatty acids(NEFA), glycerol, insulin] and inflammation [IL-1β, haptoglobin, myeloperoxidase, and reactive oxygen metabolites(ROM)]. Although insulin concentration was not affected by BCS, NEFA was overal greater and glycerol lower in HiB CS cows. Greater activity of myeloperoxidase in plasma coincided with increased haptoglobin and IL-1β postpartum in LoB CS cows.Among genes related with oxidative stress, the expression of the cytosolic antioxidant enzyme SOD1 was greater in LoB CS compared to HiB CS. Cows in LoB CS compared with HiB CS had greater overal expression of ABDH5 and ATGL along with ADIPOQ, indicating enhanced basal lipolysis and secretion of adiponectin. Expression of CPT1 A, ACADVL, and ACOX1 was greater overal in HiB CS than LoB CS indicating enhanced NEFA oxidation. Although the temporal increase in plasma NEFA regardless of BCS coincided with the profile of CPT1 A, the gradual decrease in genes related with reesterification of NEFA(PCK1) and glycerol efflux(AQP7) coupled with an increase in glycerol kinase(GK) suggested some stimulation of NEFA utilization within adipose tissue. This idea is supported in part by the gradual decrease in insulin regardless of BCS. Although expression of the inflammation-related gene toll-like receptor 4( TLR4) was greater in Hi BCS versus Lo BCS cows at-10 d, expression of TLR9 was greater in Hi BCS versus Lo BCS at 20 d.These profiles did not seem to be associated with concentrations of pro-inflammatory biomarkers or ROM.Conclusions: Overall, data indicated that cows with BCS 3.25 or lower before calving experienced greater alterations in systemic inflammation and basal lipolysis without excessive increases in NEFA plasma concentrations.Despite the greater plasma NEFA around parturition, cows with BCS 3.75 or higher seemed to have a more active system for catabolism of NEFA and utilization of glycerol within adipose tissue. A linkage between those pathways and risk of disorders postpartum remains to be determined.

Spawning induction and fecundity of commercial native fish species from the São Francisco River basin,Brazil,under hatchery conditions

In order to exploit native fish species for aquaculture, basic parameters of artificial reproducetion and estimates of reproductive potential for this fish must be determined to improve hatchery success. We analyze seven Brazilian commercial fish. Spawning was induced using the hypophysation method, with injection of crude carp pituitary extract (CCPE). Characiformes species signaled the spawning time with behavioral alterations (usually circular movements). The time of oocyte extrusion varied from 5.3 ± 0.3 h in Salminus franciscanus to 8.6 ± 0.1 h in Prochilodus argenteus after the second CCPE injection. The greatest diameter of a vitellogenic oocyte was registered for P. argenteus (873.9 ± 122.2 μm) and the smallest was for Pimelodus maculates (465.4 ± 36.3 μm). The diameter of vitellogenic oocytes was very similar among species belonging to the same family. The highest ROI values were registered for Prochilodus costatus(27.0 ± 3.5 μm) and P. argenteus (23.4 ± 3.7 μm), while the lowest values were found in Pseudoplatystoma corruscans (4.6 ± 0.9 μm) and P. maculatus (6.0 ± 1.3 μm). Absolute fecundity (number of oocytes released at spawning) was lowest in P. maculatus and highest in P. corruscans. Relative fecundity (RF) presented a high correlation (r = 0.98 to 0.99) with gonad weight, indicating high efficiency of spawning. The RF also presented a high correlation with body weight (r = 0.88 to 0.97) and total length (r = 0.86 to 0.92). The highest RF was registered for Leporinus obtusidens, and the lowest was for P. corruscans. Released fecundity had a negative correlation with the diameter of vitellogenic oocytes and with the height of the follicular cells, and a positive correlation with the thickness of the zona pelucida. These results indicate that the species studied herein are suitable candidates for aquaculture due to their reproductive and zootechnical characteristics.

Snapshot Survey of the Presence of Perfluoroalkyl Substances in Products, Articles, and the Environment in Ecuador

The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants(POPs)is a legally binding instrument for 186 Parties(status:April 2023).Accordingly,among other responsibilities,countries are obliged to report the production,import,or export of the POPs listed in Annexes A,B,or C;provide information to registers;maintain inventories;and monitor the presence of POPs in the environment.In the broader context of international chemicals and waste management,producer responsibilities,harmonized reporting,and compliance with national and international regulations,Ecuador has addressed the newly listed group of perfluorinated alkyl substances(PFAS)in its national implementation plan and sent selected products from its national market for PFAS analysis.The products analyzed came from the initially listed fields of specific exemptions and acceptable purposes,including:fire-fighting foams;photographic aids;greasers/degreasers;various kinds of paper/packaging;textiles;and leather,coatings,cleaners,metal plating,and pesticides.Our results showed that the three PFAS presently listed in the Stockholm Convention could be quantified in only a few samples;additional PFAS,not yet listed in the Convention also had low detection frequencies.Although the number of samples was limited,the samples covered a large spectrum of sample matrices,making it possible to conclude that—once these products become waste and are regulated under the Basel Convention—they would not constitute a disposal problem.Nevertheless,verification of the presence of PFAS in products on the market is expected to pose an analytical challenge for both,developed and developing countries.

Challenges in Implementing DVI Best Practice Guidelines Due to the Brumadinho Disaster

The broke of a tailings dam from Vale S.A. destroyed a gigantic area killing 270 persons in Brumadinho/Brazil. Organizing activities after a mass disaster is a complex process that requires the involvement of many people and resources in the laboratory. To DNA identification of the victims, a daunting work had to be made by DNA laboratory staff in a collaborative effort with many partners. Efforts to implement good practice guidelines in Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) have revealed several important aspects that need to change in the forensic DNA laboratory. This article highlights the challenges of implementing DVI best practice guidelines in resource-poor settings, but with professionals from different sectors engaged in the same goal of briefly identifying victims and helping families and society.

Evaluation of Formaldehyde as a Potential Cause of Olfactory Dysfunction in Hairdressers

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the olfactory function between hairdressers exposed to formaldehyde and unexposed controls, as exposure to toxic agents is a potential cause of olfactory disorders in humans. Hairdressing professionals frequently encounter formaldehyde, a component found in hair products that are known to have various toxic effects on the human body, including alterations in the sense of smell. Methods: A total of 32 hairdressing volunteers exposed to formaldehyde and 32 non-exposed volunteers matched for age, sex, education and smoking status underwent the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT®). Results: The findings demonstrated a decrease in UPSIT® olfactory test scores and a higher degree of olfactory loss among hairdressers exposed to formaldehyde (mean UPSIT® scores: 30.6 vs 35.1, p Conclusion: Occupational exposure of hairdressers to formaldehyde is associated with diminished olfactory function. Education approach and promotion of personal protective equipment usage should be encouraged.

Evaluation of Formaldehyde as a Potential Cause of Olfactory Dysfunction in Hairdressers

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the olfactory function between hairdressers exposed to formaldehyde and unexposed controls, as exposure to toxic agents is a potential cause of olfactory disorders in humans. Hairdressing professionals frequently encounter formaldehyde, a component found in hair products that are known to have various toxic effects on the human body, including alterations in the sense of smell. Methods: A total of 32 hairdressing volunteers exposed to formaldehyde and 32 non-exposed volunteers matched for age, sex, education and smoking status underwent the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT®). Results: The findings demonstrated a decrease in UPSIT® olfactory test scores and a higher degree of olfactory loss among hairdressers exposed to formaldehyde (mean UPSIT® scores: 30.6 vs 35.1, p Conclusion: Occupational exposure of hairdressers to formaldehyde is associated with diminished olfactory function. Education approach and promotion of personal protective equipment usage should be encouraged.

Timing of breeding as a determinant of nest success of the vulnerable Chestnut Seedeater(Sporophila cinnamomea)in grasslands of southern South America

The breeding traits of Sporophila seedeaters have been relatively well studied in recent years;nevertheless,a group of ten species in the genus,known as southern capuchinos,remain understudied.That is the case with Chestnut Seedeater(Sporophila cinnamomea),a species vulnerable to extinction,which breeds in the grasslands of southeast South America and,after reproduction,migrates towards the Cerrado region in central Brazil.Here,we investigated breeding ecology and calculated average clutch size,productivity,the sex ratio of nestlings,and estimated nest success.Then we tested(1)whether there is a relationship between the number of active nests and environmental variables,(2)whether the nestling sex ratio deviates from the 1:1 ratio,(3)whether clutch size varies between breeding seasons,and(4)whether the nest success is related to starting date,nest age,plant support,nest height from the ground,and clutch size.During two breeding seasons(October-March 2018-2020),we monitored 98 nests.We generated survival models with five interacting covariates to assess the survival of the nests.We recorded the entire breeding period for Chestnut Seedeater,which was estimated to be 4.6 months,similar to other migratory seedeaters.Clutch size did not differ between breeding seasons.The sex ratio of nestlings was not significantly different from the 1:1 ratio.Nest success was 31%,and predation was the leading cause of unsuccessful nests(83%).The daily survival rate was 0.95±0.01.The main predictor of nest survival was the covariate starting date.These findings,added to other aspects of the species’natural history described here,may help illuminate the ecology and behavior of Chestnut Seedeater and other southern endangered capuchinos,and grassland-dependent species of South America.

Recent advances in the molecular genetics of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) is a complex disease in which both genetic and environmental factors interact in determining impaired β-cell insulin secretion and peripheral insulin resistance. Insulin resistance in muscle, liver and fat is a prominent feature of most patients with T2DM and obesity, resulting in a reduced response of these tissues to insulin. Considerable evidence has been accumulated to indicate that heredity is a major determinant of insulin resistance and T2DM. It is believed that, among individuals destined to develop T2DM, hyperinsulinemia is the mechanism by which the pancreatic β-cell initially compensates for deteriorating peripheral insulin sensitivity, thus ensuring normal glucose tolerance. Most of these people will develop T2DM when β-cells fail to compensate. Despite the progress achieved in this field in recent years, the genetic causes of insulin resistance and T2DM remain elusive.Candidate gene association, linkage and genome-wide association studies have highlighted the role of genetic factors in the development of T2DM. Using these strategies, a large number of variants have been identified in many of these genes, most of which may influence both hepatic and peripheral insulin resistance, adipogenesis and β-cell mass and function. Recently, a new gene has been identified by our research group, the HMGA1 gene, whose loss of function can greatly raise the risk of developing T2DM in humans and mice. Functional genetic variants of the HMGA1 gene have been associated with insulin resistance syndromes among white Europeans, Chinese individuals and Americans of Hispanic ancestry. These findings may represent new ways to improve or even prevent T2DM.

讲究职业道德的内部审计领导的七项品质

对每个职业来说，讲究职业道德的行为都是从业人员负责任的基石。内部审计人员也没有什么不同，为此我们需要对自己高标准严要求。一个最好的例子就是《国际内部审计专业实务框架（IPPF）》，其中包括了定义清晰的《职业道德规范》，涵盖了正直、客观、保密和胜任能力等几方面的原则。正如《规范》简介中所说：“《职业道德规范》对于内部审计职业必要而又适用，它是内部审计对治理、风险管理和控制做出的客观确认之所以被信任的基础。”

遵循内部审计准则到底是谁的职责

今年是IIA发布《国际内部审计专业实务标准》（以下简称《标准》）35周年。在过去的几年里，《标准》已经被看作是内部审计利益相关者确认内部审计工作质量的重要途径。遵循《标准》使我们的利益相关者了解内部审计职能之所以值得信赖，

建设项目跟踪审计几个实务问题的探讨

一、建设项目跟踪审计中亟待解决的几个实务问题 （一）跟踪审计定位不清楚，职责不明确 目前，许多建设项目的跟踪审计工作实现了“关口前移”，涉及到工程项目的事前、事中阶段。正因为此，一些建设单位、监理单位把有效地控制工程成本、遏制工程建设出现重大问题的责任寄托在审计身上，希望通过审计全程把关来预防这些问题。对于项目管理过程中需要建设单位决定并承担责任的问题，他们没有切实履行决策职能，往往先要等跟踪审计人员表态后，才签署相应意见，在以后时间内就以此为依据，来推动项目进程。事后工程项目一旦出现问题，建设单位、监理单位寻找各种理由推卸自己的责任。

内部审计人员是否应当参与对外部审计的评估

在我最近的博客中写到了合规审计的趋势。我提到内部审计应当以风险为中心，这意味着，我们作为审计人员所关注的问题应当随着占主导地位的风险和利益相关者的关注点转移。其中一个近年来监管者和媒体都十分重视的问题就是外部审计的质量。

审计委员会应当向首席审计执行官提出的五个尖锐问题

对首席审计执行官（CAE）来说，过去十年里在所有工作关系中，与审计委员会的关系发，丰的变化最为显著。根据国际内部审计师协会（IIA）审计执行官服务中心的数据显示，北美地区超过75％的内部审计部门在职能层面部向审计委员会报告工作。在许多公司里，审计委员会每次会议中都会安排与CAE的会谈。

每个内部审计人员都应当为2013年制订的5条新年计划

过去几年来，我一直在做的一项工作就是在每年初用一篇博客与每位内部审计人员分享5条新年计划。正如我去年所说的那样，这些计划不是我们通常会想到的减肥或者参加锻炼——尽管我们当中的一些人确实能从这些常规的计划中获益。我建议的新年计划主要是想提高我们作为内部审计从业人员工作的质量。这些计划都非常简单但可以有力地提升我们的价值，同时也非常容易实现，有很强的操作性。

内部审计最大的风险可能正是你忽略了的问题

我曾经在一所大学里教授了很多年夜校的会计课程。我经常告诉我的学生：“只有没有被问出来的问题才是愚蠢的，除非你想问的问题是‘老师你可不可以推迟考试？＇”

内部审计进点会上不应该说的五句话

如果你从事内部审计已经有几年的时间，可能会见到过这种情况：当进点会开始的时候，一切都非常顺利。你为会议做了充分的准备，与审计客户也建立了诚恳的关系。然而突然你发现客户开始皱眉，

Pharmacogenetics of type 2 diabetes mellitus: An example of success in clinical and translational medicine

The pharmacological interventions currently available to control type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) show a wide interindividual variability in drug response, emphasizing the importance of a personalized, more effective medical treatment for each individual patient. In this context, a growing interest has emerged in recent years and has focused on pharmacogenetics, a discipline aimed at understanding the variability in patients' drug response, making it possible to predict which drug is best for each patient and at what doses. Recent pharmacological and clinical evidences indicate that genetic polymorphisms(or genetic variations) of certain genes can adversely affect drug response and therapeutic efficacy of oral hypoglycemic agents in patients with T2 DM, through pharmacokinetic- and/or pharmacodynamic-based mechanisms that may reduce the therapeutic effects or increase toxicity. For example, genetic variants in genes encoding enzymes of the cytochrome P-450 superfamily, or proteins of the ATP-sensitive potassium channel on the beta-cell of the pancreas, are responsible for the interindividual variability of drug response to sulfonylureas in patients with T2 DM. Instead, genetic variants in the genes that encode for the organic cation transporters of metformin have been related to changes in both pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic responses to metformin in metformin-treated patients. Thus, based on the individual's genotype, the possibility, in these subjects, of a personalized therapy constitutes the main goal of pharmacogenetics, directly leading to the development of the right medicine for the right patient. Undoubtedly, this represents an integral part of the translational medicine network.

五个有效战略实现更及时的审计报告

劳伦斯·索耶在他的著作《索耶内部审讳现在内部审计实务》一书中指出：“很少有审计部门内部的摩擦能够超过报告撰写过程中的阻力。最优秀的分析结果和最具建设性的审计发现往往损失在报告撰写过程中。”

技能——你的工具箱里有什么

我清楚地记得，在那个年代，要将内部审计作为职业规划，要求其实是很简单的。如果没有会计或金融知识的背景，在很多机构和组织看来，是不可能胜任内审工作的。为了进入内部审计领域，最快的捷径就是取得会计或金融方面的学历，然后在公共会计师事务所工作至少两年。