bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducing crude protein and supplementing amino acids in growing pig (50-70 kg) diets reduce nitrogen excretion but promotes different environmental impacts when using life cycle assessment
Authors: Esteves Lucas Antônio Costa , Monteiro Alessandra Nardina Tricia Rigo , Castilha Leandro Dalcin , de Araujo Gabriel Amaral , Murakami Alice Eiko , Pozza Paulo Cesar
Published: June 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance, digestibility, and environmental impact of pigs in the growth phase receiving diets with reduced crude protein and supplementation of amino acids. In the metabolism experiment, 20 crossbred barrows with an initial average weight of 63.62 ± 2.21 kg were housed in metabolic cages, with four treatments and five replications, one animal per experimental unit. In performance experiment, 40 crossbred barrows were used, with an initial average weight of 49.92 ± 0.92 kg, with four treatments, ten replications. The treatments used in both experiments consisted of four diets containing 16, 15, 14, and 13% of CP, and supplementation with amino acids to meet the requirements of all digestible amino acids. For performance, backfat thickness, and depth of the longissimus lumborum muscle, no differences were observed. Plasma urea was lower in animals fed diets with protein reduction as well as the excretion of N urine and total N, but no differences were observed for retained N, P absorbed, P ingested, and P feces. Through the life cycle assessment, for the categories of eutrophication potential and land occupation, the protein reduction mitigated the impacts when referring to soybean meal produced in the southern region, but the protein reduction provided an increase in impact when the category evaluated was cumulative energy demand, considering the soybean produced in the south and that produced in the central west region.
The development of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (Anti-CCP) antibody following severe COVID-19
Authors: Roghani Seyed Askar , Dastbaz Mohammad , Shamsi Afsaneh , Abdan Zahra , Rostampour Rezvan , Soleymani Bijan , Zamanian Mohammad Hossein , Soufivand Parviz , Pournazari Mehran , Taghadosi Mahdi
Published: June 2023

The dysregulated immune response is one of the cardinal features of severe coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). This study has been conducted to clarify the occurrence of AABs associated with a systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease (SARD) in hospitalized patients with a moderate, severe, and critical form of COVID-19. The serum samples obtained from one hundred seventy-six hospitalized COVID-19 patients were enrolled in this study, including patients with moderate (N = 90), severe (N = 50), and critical (N = 36) forms of COVID-19. Serum samples collected from healthy subjects before the COVID-19 pandemic were used as control. The ANA, ds-DNA, c-ANCA, p-ANCA, aPL, and anti-CCP occurrence was evaluated using a solid-phase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The occurrence of ANA, anti-dsDNA, Anti-CCP, c-ANCA, and p-ANCA was significantly higher in the COVID-19 patients compared to serum obtained from healthy subjects (P = 0.0001, P = 0.0001, P = 0.0001, P = 0.030, and P = 0.001 respectively). The positive number of anti-CCP tests increased significantly in severe COVID-19 compared to the moderate group (P = 0.002). Our study further supports the development of autoantibodies related to systemic autoimmune rheumatologic diseases (SARD). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study with a large sample size that reported the occurrence of anti-CCP in a severe form of COVID-19.
Compressive myelopathy caused by extradural liposarcoma in a cat
Authors: Mponda Phanuel , DVM Olive
Published: June 2023

Background Extradural tumours are the most common form of feline tumor-induced myelopathy. The clinical signs are like other common chronic spinal diseases, like intervertebral disease. It is therefore important to consider extradural liposarcoma as a differential diagnosis for cats presenting for chronic progressive paraparesis and pelvic limb ataxia. This case report highlights the importance of early advanced imaging for middle aged cats presenting for progressive paraparesis and pelvic limb ataxia. Histopathology revealed an extradural liposarcoma whose atypical localization has never been reported.
Case presentation A 6-year-old European shorthair spayed female cat presented to a referral hospital for progressive ataxia with hindlimbs paresis then paralysis associated with urinary incontinence over a three-month period. The cat presented with ambulatory paraparesis and pelvic limb ataxia that was bilaterally symmetrical. The pelvic limb withdrawal response and sciatic myotatic responses were reduced bilaterally. Postural reaction responses were delayed in both pelvic limbs. The anal tone and perineal sensation were both normal at the time of examination. Urinary incontinence was also a feature. T3–L3 myelopathy was suspected.
A CT scan revealed the presence of a paravertebral mass between the first and third lumbar vertebrae associated with osteolysis and spinal cord compression. A L1 to L3 hemilaminectomy was performed and confirmed the presence of an extradural lesion emerging through the L1-L2 intervertebral foramen, associated with myelomalacia. The cat died from sudden cardiac arrest during postoperative resuscitation. Histopathology revealed a vertebral liposarcoma whose atypical localization has never been reported.
Conclusion This case report presents the first observed case of extradural tumours being a cause of a form of feline tumor-induced myelopathy. It is therefore important to consider extradural liposarcoma as a differential diagnosis for cats presenting for chronic progressive paraparesis and pelvic limb ataxia. Early advanced imaging for middle aged cats presenting for progressive paraparesis and pelvic limb ataxia is essential in achieving a definitive diagnosis. Histopathology revealed an extradural liposarcoma whose atypical localization has never been reported.
Validation of mitophagy mechanism within steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head by bioinformatics analysis and experiments
Authors: Wei Yangwenxiang , Jiang Mengyu , Wang Zhangzheng , Fan Yinuo , Huang Haoran , Liu Yuhao , Chen Zhenqiu , Zhou Chi
Published: June 2023

Background
The exact pathogenesis of steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SIONFH) is not yet clearly understood. Studies suggest programmed cell death as one of the potential pathological mechanisms. The purpose for this study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms associated with mitophagy in SIONFH. To ascertain the potentially proteins and signaling pathways involved during bone repair.
Methods
Femur bones from patients with SIONFH were collected and divided into Healthy, Necrotic and Sclerotic zones for proteomic testing. We performed the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) pathway enrichment analysis. Cellular experiments were used to verify the changes in mitochondrial function during osteoclast formation. Furthermore, specific target proteins were analyzed by protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and venn diagrams.
Results
A total of 575 protein targets were selected for enrichment analysis. The results revealed that the bone repair process mostly involved osteoclast differentiation, FOXO signaling pathway, mTOR signaling pathway, autophagy, and mitochondrial function. Cellular experiments verified that mitochondrial function changed during osteoclast differentiation and was closely related to mitophagy. Finally, PPI network and Venn diagram were used to identify core target proteins with important roles, such as mTOR and SOD1.
Conclusion
This study will provide new insights about the proteins and relevant pathways involved in SIONFH. Bone repair process is closely related to mitophagy.
Extracellular vesicles carrying miR-143-3p released from Sertoli cells drives age-related decline of testosterone and male fertility
Authors: Liang Jinlian , Chen Derong , Mei Jiaxin , Hu Meirong , Wei Siying , Wang Zhaoyang , Huang Rufei , Li Lu , Ye Tao , Deng Jingxian , Liu Yuan , Wang Yuxin , Yang Yan , Huang Yadong
Published: June 2023

As delayed parenthood becomes more prevalent, understanding age-related testosterone decline and its impact on male fertility has gained importance. However, molecular mechanisms concerning testicular aging remain largely undiscovered. Our study highlights that miR-143-3p, present in aging Sertoli cells (SCs), is discharged into extracellular vesicles (EVs), affecting Leydig cells (LCs) and germ cells, thus disrupting testicular tissue homeostasis and spermatogenesis. Intriguingly, in SCs, TGF-β signaling promotes miR-143 precursors transcription, increasing mature miR-143-3p levels. This inhibits Smurf2, activating Smad2, and further enhancing miR-143-3p accumulation. EVs transporting miR-143-3p, originating from SCs, contribute to the age-related decline of testosterone and male fertility by targeting the luteinizing hormone receptor and retinoic acid receptor. Diminishing endogenous miR-143-3p in SCs postpones testis aging, preserving and prolonging male fertility. Thus, our study identified miR-143 as a key regulator of testicular function and fertility, revealing miR-143 as a potential therapeutic target for male abnormal sexual and reproductive function.
Development of a Composite Drought Indicator for operational drought monitoring in the MENA region
Authors: Fragaszy Stephen , Bergaoui Karim , Fraj Makram Belhaj , Ghanim Ali , Al-Hamadin Omar , Al-Karablieh Emad , Al-Bakri Jawad , Fakih Mona , Fayyad Abbas , Comair Fadi , Yessef Mohamed , Mansour Hayat Ben , Belghrissi Haythem , Arsenault Kristi , Peters-Lidard Christa , Kumar Sujay V. , Hazra Abheera , Nie Wanshu , Hayes Michael , Svoboda Mark , McDonnell Rachael
Published: June 2023

This paper presents the Composite Drought Indicator (CDI) that Jordanian, Lebanese, Moroccan, and Tunisian governments now produce monthly, and it describes their iterative co-development processes. The CDI is primarily intended to monitor agricultural and ecological drought on a seasonal time scale. It uses remote sensing and modelled data inputs, and it reflects anomalies in precipitation, vegetation, soil moisture, and evapotranspiration. We made changes to CDI input data, modelling procedures, and integration following quantitative and qualitative validation assessments, as well as consideration of policymakers’ needs and agencies’ technical and institutional capabilities and constraints. We summarize validation results and show CDI outputs, and we describe the monthly CDI production and information dissemination process. Finally, we synthesize procedural and technical aspects of CDI development that reflect trade-offs made to optimize the CDI for operational monitoring that supports policy decision-making – including aspects of salience, credibility, and legitimacy – within each national context.
Breast cancer surveillance in BRCA positive Sri Lankan women: health equity for a high-risk group at a limited resource setting
Authors: Liyanage Udari Apsara , Sirisena Nirmala Dushyanthi , Deshapriya Pushpika Chathuranga , Dissanayake Vajira Harshadeva Weerabaddana
Published: June 2023

Background
BRCA1 and BRCA2 pathogenic variants account for 90% of hereditary breast malignancies, incurring a lifetime breast cancer risk of 85% and 40-45% respectively, in affected individuals. Well-resourced health care settings offer genetic counselling and genetic screening for susceptible individuals, followed by intense breast cancer surveillance programmes for those identified at high risk of breast cancer. Such high standards of care are not available in countries with limited resources. This study assessed breast screening behaviors among a cohort of BRCApositive Sri Lankan women.
Methods
A retrospective case review of all patients diagnosed with pathogenic variants in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes from 2015 to 2022 at the Human Genetics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo was carried out, followed by a telephone interview of the respondents. Patients who were not contactable, deceased, undergone bilateral mastectomy and males were excluded from the interview component of the study.
Results
Only 25 patients were diagnosed during the study period:14/25 women responded (6/25 deceased, 3/25 non-contactable; 2/25 excluded). 71.4% (10/14) had performed breast self-examination during the preceding month; 35.7% (5/14) had a clinical breast examination (CBE), and 50% (7/14) had undergone a screening/diagnostic mammogram during the previous year. 28.5% (4/14) underwent both mammography and CBE; 21.45% (3/14) mammogram only, 7.1% (1/14) had CBE only. 42.8%(6/14) had not under gone any surveillance(mammography or CBE). None had dual screening with mammogram and MRI. 85.71% (12/14) women expressed willingness to participate in a regular screening programme if made available.
Conclusion
Fifty percent of BRCA1/2 positive women in our study had not undergone annual mammographic screening, and none had undergone annual dual screening with mammography and MRI indicating inadequate breast cancer surveillance in this high-risk group.
Comparative and phylogeneticanalyses of nine complete chloroplast genomes of Orchidaceae
Authors: Liu Likuan , du jx , Liu Zhihua , Zuo Wenming , Wang Zhenglei , Li Jinping , Zeng Yang
Published: June 2023

The orchid family has 200,000 species and 700 genera, and it is found worldwide in the tropics and subtropics. In China, there are 1,247 species and subspecies of orchids belonging to the Orchidaceae family. Orchidaceae is one of the most diverse plant families in the world, known for their lush look, remarkable ecological tolerance, and capability for reproduction. It has significant decorative and therapeutic value. In terms of evolution, the orchid family is one of the more complicated groups, but up until now, little has been known about its affinities. This study examined the properties of 19 chloroplast (cp) genomes, of which 11 had previously been published and nine had only recently been revealed.Following that, topics such as analysis of selection pressure, codon usage, amino acid frequencies, repeated sequences, and reverse repeat contraction and expansion are covered. The Orchidaceae share similar cp chromosomal characteristics, and we have conducted a preliminary analysis of their evolutionary connections. Similar cp chromosomal traits can be seen in the orchidaceae. Galearis roborowskyi, Neottianthe cucullata, Neottianthe monophylla, Platanthera urceolata and Ponerorchis compacta are the closest cousins, according to phylogenetic study.
Genetic Variability and Recombination of the NSP2 Gene of PRRSV-1 Strains in China from 1996 to 2022
Authors: Zhang Hang , Luo Qin , Zheng Yajie , Sha Huiyang , Li Gan , Kong Weili , Huang Liangzong , Zhao Mengmeng
Published: June 2023

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) has been present in China for over 20 years. Due to the continuous mutation of PRRS virus (PRRSV), it causes significant economic losses to the pig industry annually. This study aimed to understand the genetic variation of the PRRSV-1 NSP2 gene in China. A total of 69 PRRSV-1 NSP2 strains, consisting of 25 Chinese and 44 foreign strains, were collected and their nucleotide and amino acid homology were analyzed. Results indicated that the nucleotide homology of NSP2 ranged 42.1–97.0%, while the amino acid homology ranged from 59.4–100.0%. Multiple sequence alignments of NSP2 amino acids from the 69 PRRSV-1 strains were conducted to compare differential sites of NSP2 amino acids between PRRSV-1 and PRRSV-2. The study revealed that PRRSV-1 had more missing and replaced sites compared to PRRSV-2. A phylogenetic analysis of the NSP2 sequence of 90 PRRSV strains revealed that the genetic relationships between BJEU06-1-like and NMEU09-1-like are relatively close, but far from Amervac-like and HKEU-16-like. Additionally, recombinant analysis showed that four recombination events occurred in the 90 selected PRRSVs, with two occurring in the Chinese PRRSV-1 NSP2 sequence. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the prevalence of PRRSV-1 in China over the past 20 years and will serve as a theoretical basis for the evolution and epidemiology of PRRSV.The abstract serves both as a general introduction to the topic and as a brief, non-technical summary of the main results and their implications. Authors are advised to check the author instructions for the journal they are submitting to for word limits and if structural elements like subheadings, citations, or equations are permitted.
Bioinformatics analysis of potential ferroptosis and non- alcoholic fatty liver disease biomarkers
Authors: Yu Xiaoxiao , Yang Kai , Fang Zhihao , Zhu Tong , Liu Changxu , Guo Zihao , Dong Zhichao , Liu Chang
Published: June 2023

Background: Ferroptosis plays a crucial role in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In this study, we aimed to use a comprehensive bioinformatics approach and experimental validation to identify and verify potential ferroptosis-related genes in NAFLD.
Materials and methods: We downloaded the microarray datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus database for screening differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and identified the intersection of these datasets with ferroptosis-related DEGs from the Ferroptosis database. Subsequently, ferroptosis-related DEGs were obtained using support vector machine analysis; the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm was then used to identify six marker genes. Furthermore, the CIBERSORT algorithm was used to estimate the proportion of different types of immune cells. Subsequently, we constructed drug regulatory networks and ceRNA regulatory networks. Lastly, we validated our findings in a mouse model of NAFLD induced by a high-fat diet.
Results: We identified EGR1, IL6, JUN、SOCS1, NR4A1, and ZFP36 as marker genes for NAFLD, demonstrating their robust diagnostic abilities. Subsequent functional enrichment analysis results revealed that these marker genes were associated with multiple diseases and play a key role in NAFLD via the regulation of immune response and amino acid metabolism, among other pathways. The presence of immune infiltration implies that alterations in the immune microenvironment of NAFLD patients may be associated with the marker genes. Moreover, we identified 53 drugs targeting the 6 marker genes and ceRNA networks, which revealed complex regulatory relationships. The expression of hepatic EGR1, IL6, SOCS1, and NR4A1 was significantly downregulated in the NAFLD model.
Conclusion: Here, we analyzed and validated a ferroptosis gene signature in NAFLD using bioinformatics and animal models. Our findings provide new insights and molecular clues for understanding and treating NAFLD. Further studies are needed to assess the diagnostic potential of these markers for NAFLD.
Optimizing Bioethanol (C2H5OH) Yield of Sweet Sorghum Cultivars in a Semi-Arid Environment: The Impact of Deheading and Deficit Irrigation
Authors: EMARA Eman Ibrahim Refaie , Alsanad Mohammed A.
Published: June 2023

The production of bioethanol offers a promising pathway to mitigate the detrimental environmental effects of ethanol consumption, such as greenhouse gas emissions and atmospheric particle release. Despite the challenges posed by water scarcity, plants have emerged as a viable energy source for biofuel production. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of three deheading times (45, 21 days before harvest, and no-deheading) and three levels of water regime on specific sweet sorghum cultivars (Honey, Willy, MN1500, and Atlas) in terms of yield traits, theoretical ethanol production, and water productivity. Findings highlight cultivation's impact on bioethanol yield. A 30–70% water deficit reduced stalk yields by 17.86–18.54% and sugar yields by 0.2–0.31 Mg ha− 1. Theoretical ethanol yield dropped by 120.9-180.9 L ha− 1. Brix and sugar content increased by 16.32–18.42% and 16.81–19.03%, respectively, in seasons one and two. Honey cultivar, with 30% water deficit and deheading at 21 days before harvest, excelled in growth and yield. These insights optimize sweet sorghum cultivation, enhancing sustainable bioethanol production. Advancing renewable energy technologies for a greener future.
Simplified Analysis Model of Longitudinal Constraint Effect of High-speed Railway Simply-supported Bridge Under Earthquake
Authors: Jiang Lizhong , Zhong Bufan , Zhou Wangbao , Zhang Yuntai , Yu Jian , Zhao Yinting
Published: June 2023

The structure of a high-speed railway (HSR) bridge with a track system is complex, and the computational efficiency of seismic analysis for a fine HSR bridge with a track system model (BM) is low. This study considers an HSR bridge with CRTS II slab ballastless track system as a case study and develops a simplified model (SM) based on a method for simulating track constraints with equivalent springs. To obtain the optimal stiffness of SM equivalent springs, a finite element (FE) structural parameters updating framework utilizing an improved genetic algorithm (GA) is established, and the updated SM's dynamic characteristics and seismic response are compared to BM's. In addition, it uses SM to analyze the over-limit state and applicability of the bridge structure's critical components. The results indicated that the model simplification ratio of SM reaches 95%. The seismic response outcomes of SM and BM accurately agree with an average relative error of 3% and a maximum relative error of less than 5%. The over-limit state of the seismic response structure tends to be stable as the number of ground motion samples increases. The shear and bending capacity of the pier and the deformation of the fixed support have a high over-limit risk under longitudinal seismic, which is worth noting in the engineering design.
Nurses’ and clients’ experiences of co-designing solutions to improve provider-client relationships in maternal and child healthcare: A human-centred design study in rural Tanzania
Authors: Isangula Kahabi , Pallangyo Eunice S. , Ndirangu-Mugo Eunice
Published: June 2023

Background
There has been a persistent increase in clients’ dissatisfaction with providers’ competencies in maternal and child healthcare (MCH). Existing interventions have failed to address the complexity of provider-client relationships. Therefore, targeted, contextualized innovative solutions that place providers and clients at the forefront as agents of change in optimizing intervention design and implementation are needed. The study team adopted a co-design approach where MCH nurses, clients, and stakeholders partnered to design an intervention package to improve provider-client relationships in rural Tanzania.
Objective
This paper explored nurses’, clients’, and MCH stakeholders’ experiences of participation in a co-design process to generate interventions to strengthen nurse-client relationships in Shinyanga.
Methods
A qualitative descriptive design was used. Thirty semi-structured key informant interviews were conducted in the Swahili language with purposefully selected nurses, clients, and MCH stakeholders. The inclusion criterion was participation in synthesis, ideation, and creative workshops as part of the co-design of an intervention package to strengthen nurse-client relationships. Data were transcribed and translated simultaneously, managed using NVivo, and analyzed thematically.
Results
Three main themes emerged from the analysis. 1) Key learnings from participation in the co-design process, which included knowledge that: both nurses and clients contributed to tensions within their relationships; the benefits of good nurse-client relationship extended beyond nurses and clients to the health sector; and improvement of nurse-client relationships requires interventions targeting nurses, clients, and the health sector. 2) Co-design offered a promising strategy for addressing many challenges facing the health sector beyond interpersonal relationships because it is innovative and brings together parties and end-users impacted by the problem and generates acceptable interventions that contribute to enhanced satisfaction. 3) Co-design promoted co-learning of new skills and knowledge among participants, which influenced changes in their behaviours and practices, even before the implementation of the generated solutions.
Conclusion
End-users’ experiences of co-design suggest it provides a novel entry point for strengthening provider-client relationships and addressing other health sector challenges. In co-design, clients are invited to partner with providers and stakeholders in designing highly acceptable and feasible interventions. Researchers and interventionists should consider embracing a co-design approach to address health service delivery challenges.
Unhealthy food availability, prominence and promotion in a representative sample of supermarkets in Flanders (Belgium): A detailed assessment
Authors: Vandevijvere Stefanie , Dam Iris , Inaç Yasemin , Smets Vincent
Published: June 2023

Introduction
The supermarket food environment is a key setting for potential public health interventions. This study assessed food availability, prominence and promotion in a representative sample of supermarkets in Flanders (Belgium).
Methods
A sample of 55 supermarkets across five chains and 16 Flemish municipalities was selected in 2022, about 64% in the most deprived socioeconomic areas. Healthiness indicators related to food availability (ratio of cumulative linear shelf length for healthy versus unhealthy foods), prominence (proportion of unhealthy foods at check-outs and end-of-aisle endcaps), and promotion (child-directed food marketing on food packages) were measured.
Results
Overall, the average ratio of healthy/unhealthy foods in supermarkets in Flanders was 0.36, meaning that for every 10m of shelf length of unhealthy foods there is 3.6m of healthy foods. There was a large variation in ratio’s across supermarket chains. Of all foods available, 97.5% were ultra-processed at the check outs, while 72.2% and 58.5% were ultra-processed at the front and back end-of-aisle end-caps, respectively. Confectionery and sweet biscuits were the food categories with on average the highest number of child-directed marketing on pack per 10m of shelf length.
Conclusion
Supermarket in-store food environments in Flanders were found generally unhealthy, with those located in low income areas having unhealthier in-store food environments than supermarkets located in medium and high income areas. Despite commitments of all large supermarket chains in Flanders to promote and create healthier in-store food environments, our findings indicate that currently consumers are incentivized to buy unhealthy rather than healthy food products.
Transportation Multi depot vehicle routing problem with optional transshipment demands
Authors: Akbari M. , Ghomi S. M.T. Fatemi
Published: June 2023

One of the important issues of transportation and delivery of goods is vehicle routing. These days, transportation issues are faced by many challenges, such as electric cars, a variety of products and services. This paper aims to reduce travel distance. To do this a mixed integer linear programming model is developed. It utilizes the vehicle routing problem with an optional transshipment model for single-product problems with one and two depots in small and non-small dimensions. In addition, parameters of customer demand are studied as stochastic with normal distribution. The situation of real-world condition has been obtained in the paper and a case study in Iran is given. Also, sensitivity analysis is made on some parameters. Numerical results indicate that the proposed model is relatively effective. Ultimately, some management insights are provided.
Unveiling Follicular Thyroid Carcinoma by Solitary Spinal Metastasis Causing Severe Neurological Deficit in a 67-Year-Old Female
Authors: Njoum Yumna , Abu-Hilal Lila H. , Barghouthi Duha I. , Alshawwa Khaled , AbuKeshek Tawfiq , Bakri Izzeddin , Maree Mohammed
Published: June 2023

Background: Follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) is a differentiated thyroid malignancy that exhibits the ability to metastasize hematogenously to distant organs, including the lungs and bones. Spinal metastasis is an unusual site for metastasis that even when occurs, presents late in the disease course and is often associated with advanced disease and poor prognosis. Until 2019, the literature only showed 29 cases of FTC with spinal metastasis as the first presenting feature.
Case Presentation: We present a case of a 67-year-old female with no previous history of thyroid malignancy who presented with an acute onset of severe neurological deficit that ended up bedridden. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine revealed a spinal lesion causing severe spinal cord compression. Urgent surgical decompression was performed, and the histopathological analysis confirmed the presence of metastatic FTC. Subsequent comprehensive evaluation, including thyroid ultrasonography and unveiled a very small primary thyroid tumor.
Conclusion: This case report highlights the importance of considering FTC as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with spinal metastasis, even in the absence of known primary thyroid malignancy. Prompt diagnosis, comprehensive staging, and multidisciplinary management are crucial in optimizing treatment outcomes for patients with FTC presenting with spinal metastasis and improvement of prognosis.
Evaluation of growth-promoting agents on saffron yield and quality
Authors: Rastegari Sakineh , Alavi Seyed Mehdi Naser , Mohayeji Mehdi
Published: June 2023

Saffron is an important plant whether in the food or medical industry. So, improving stigma quality and quantity is of special importance. To evaluate the effects of chemical/hormone treatment on saffron yield and stigma quality, its corms were treated with Gibberellic acid, 6-Benzylaminopurine, Salicylic acid, and Potassium nitrate. Some floral traits such as flower fresh weight, stigma length, stigma weight, and some quality traits (crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal) and corms’ total sugar and starch content were measured. The results showed significant differences between control and treatments, in a way that in all floral traits, picrocrocin, and safranal, an improvement was observed in treated corms. Also, corm total sugar and starch content were affected by treatments. Correlation analysis showed a positive relationship in some studied traits such as stigma dry weight and stigma length, stigma dry weight and flower fresh weight (r = 0.410) as well as in picrocrocin and safranal. While, a negative correlation was detected in day-to-flowering and flower fresh weight, day-to-flowering, and safranal. Almost all floral traits had a positive correlation with corms’ starch content and a negative correlation with corms' total sugar. Generally, it could be pointed out that earlier flowering was in a positive relationship with quality and quantity traits in this plant. Consequently, exogenous chemical/hormone treatments in appropriate dosage would lead to earlier flowering and improve saffron yield and quality.
Upland rice grain yield and plant improvement by single and combined beneficial microorganisms
Authors: Nascente Adriano Stephan , Temitope Ishola Zainab , Filippi Marta Cristina Corsi , Cruz Dennis Ricardo Cabral
Published: June 2023

In order to meet the increasing demand of the growing population, rice production must increase through the use of sustainable and environmentally friendly methods. The use of beneficial microorganisms is an important strategy to improve rice production in a sustainable way. The study was carried out to determine the effect of single and combined beneficial microorganism on the development of upland rice. The experiment was performed in greenhouse and arranged in a completely randomized design with 28 treatments and 4 replications. Treatments consisted of rice seeds treated with single and combined multifunctional microorganisms (1 (Serratia marcescens), 2 (Bacillus toyonensis), 3 (Phanerochaete australis), 4 (Trichoderma koningiopsis), 5 (Azospirillum brasilense), 6 (Azospirillum sp.), 7 (Bacillus sp), 8 to 28 (combination of these microorganisms) and 29 (control)). Inoculation of upland rice with sole and combined microorganism on upland rice increased the roots and shoots development, yield components and grain yield of upland rice. The combinations of Bacillus sp. (BRM 63573) and A. brasilense (AbV5), Azospirillum sp. (BRM 63574) + B. toyonensis (BRM 32110) and Phanerochaete australiani (BRM 62389) + Serratia marcenscens (BRM 32114) led to greatest values in roots and shoots development, number of panicles, number of grains per pot, 1000 grains weight and grain yield of upland rice plants. Besides, these microorganisms’ combinations allow great accumulating of nutrients in roots, shoots and grains of upland rice plants. The use of beneficial microorganisms can be adopted for increasing upland rice production.
Enhancing Student Understanding of Rheumatic Disease Pathologies through Augmented Reality: Findings from a Multicenter Trial in Germany
Authors: Pfeil Alexander , Klemm Philipp , Hueber Axel J , Hoffmann Tobias , Weise Tobias , Oelzner Peter , Knop Stefan , Schuster Louis , Müller-Ladner Ulf , Lange Uwe , Wolf Gunter , Schett Georg , Simon David , Kleyer Arnd
Published: June 2023

Objective
The possibility of combining real and virtual environments is driving the increased use of augmented reality (AR) in education, including medical training. The aim of this multi-centre study was to evaluate the students’ perspective on the AR-based Rheumality GO!® app as a new teaching concept, presenting six real anonymised patient cases with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).
Patients and methods
The study encompassed 347 undergraduate medical students (232 women and 115 men) from four medical universities in Germany (Jena, Bad Nauheim/Gießen, Nuremberg, Erlangen). The course was divided into a theoretical refresher lecture followed by six AR-based cases in each of the three indications presented in the AR app (Rheumality GO!®). All participants evaluated the course after completion, assessing the benefit of the app from a student´s perspective using a questionnaire with 16 questions covering six subject areas.
Results
The use of the AR-based app improved the understanding of pathologies in RA, PsA, and axSpA for 99% of the participants. For 98% of respondents, the concept of AR with real patient data has made a positive impact on the teaching environment. On the other hand, 82% were in favour of the use of virtual tools (e.g. AR) in addition to this conventional approach.
Conclusion
The results of our study showed that from medical students' perspective, an AR-based concept can complement rheumatology teaching in medical school as an effective and attractive tool.
Obesity promotes pancreatic cancer through the ECM-PI3K-AKT signaling axis
Authors: Zhang Xusheng , Ouyang Haoxuan , Chen Long , Ding Lin , Ma Weihu , Chen Bendong
Published: June 2023

Objective To investigate obesity signature genes as potential biomarkers of pancreatic cancer and their possible molecular regulatory mechanisms.
Methods Based on the mRNA-Seq data of obesity and pancreatic cancer from GEO and TCGA-GTEx databases, we screened four obesity signature genes using a random forest tree algorithm and analyzed their expression in pancreatic cancer, and constructed a nomogram risk prediction model and performed preliminary validation of the predictive efficiency of the model. Then the tumor immune profile of pancreatic cancer was assessed based on the CIBERSORT algorithm, and the correlation between the four obesity genes and the abundance of tumor immune cell infiltration, and immune checkpoints in pancreatic cancer was discussed.
Results The diagnostic ROC curves suggested that the four obesity genes showed good diagnostic efficacy for pancreatic cancer, hinting that they may be potential predictive targets for pancreatic cancer, and the pancreatic cancer risk prediction model based on the four obesity-related genes showed good risk prediction efficacy for pancreatic cancer in the obese population, which has good potential for clinical application. The study also found that the upregulation of COL1A2 expression may activate the PI3K/ART signaling pathway through the mediation of integrin IGTA to promote the development of pancreatic cancer, closely associated with the developm-
ent and progression of pancreatic cancer.
Conclusion The obesity signature genes CCDC80, COL1A2, DPYSL3 and BCAT1 are potential predictive targets for new pancreatic cancer in obese people, and the upregulation of COL1A2 expression may promote pancreatic cancer development by activating the PI3K/ART signaling pathway.
Quantum Dynamics Studies on Reactive Scattering of Cl with Rotationally Excited H2
Authors: Zhang Xingyu , Meng Qingyong
Published: June 2023

In this work, extensive multi-configurational time-dependent Hartree (MCTDH) calculations in conjugation with the neural-network (NN) fitted potential energy surface (Science, 347 (2015), 60) were launched to study quantum dynamics of the Cl atom reacting with rotationally excited H2 molecule. Due to its direct abstraction mechanism, reaction of Cl + H2 in the ground state has no clear reaction resonances, which is well reproduced by the present work. For the reaction of Cl with H2 in rotationally excited states, the reactive probabilities are enhanced due to a Polanyi-like rule for rotationally excited states. Such Polanyi-like rule can be interpreted through the similar way as for the cases of vibrationally exicted states. Moreover, distinctive resonances peaks are investigated for these cases implying a model for generating a quasi-bound rotation state. Similar to the chemical bond softening model (Science, 347 (2015), 60; Science, 368 (2020), 767) for the vibrationally excited cases, a probable model is proposed in this work. Finally, based on the present calculations this model is further discussed to show source of the quasi-bound rotation state.
JESO: Reducing Data Center Energy Consumption Based on Model Predictive Control
Authors: Yang Shu , Xu Guizhao , Chang Xiaolei , Chen Zhengjian , Dong Qingzhen , Cui Laizhong
Published: June 2023

With the development of the Internet, the demand for data centers is growing dramatically.
The cost of running a data center mainly comes from the huge electricity bill.
Actually, IT (Information Technology) equipment and the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system of the data center consume the majority of electricity.
The existing energy--saving researches usually consider IT equipment or the HVAC system separately.
But the energy consumption of HVAC is partially correlated with the running status of IT equipment. Taking methods to optimize the energy consumption of them jointly will generate more benefits.
Therefore, we proposed JESO (Joint Energy Saving Optimization), a MPC (Model Predictive Control) -based method, to realize the joint energy-saving optimization of IT equipment and the HVAC system.
We conducted extensive experiments based on generated transmission data and the HVAC system data from two real data centers.
The experimental results demonstrated that JESO based on the joint energy-saving algorithm of IT equipment and the HVAC system can further reduce energy consumption as compared to baselines and will not negatively affect the data transmission latency of the IT equipment.
Lifted Antipodal Graviton Regularization from VEVs: Convergences plus Higgs-3-Gluons Duality
Authors: maalouf hani
Published: June 2023

A discrete skip operator, turning alternate to the Liouville theory, provides the link between the Higgs and 3-gluons along a non-Gaussian Regularization for the Graviton based on indices. Such is shown with factors from the Anti-podal Symmetry, plus its unambiguous renormalizable’ liftings. That resolves, their so far abstract connection, via the MHV vertices. The procedure relied on a small variation of an effective Lagrangian cosmological term constant due to the rolling fluctuations, under a scalable Gauss-Bonnet Gravity. Verified, via alternating, so convergent, expansion diagrams coefficients, containing Gluons and Higgs. Thus such sorted feature plus its correlators from high dimensional operators pin out limits and analyticity for the gravitational interactions.
Reproductive care in Thai women with diabetes mellitus: A descriptive cross-sectional study
Authors: Pothongsangarun Kritat , Li Jiayu , Naeowong Witthawat , Apirakviriya Chayanis , Phutrakool Phanupong , Juntamongkol Tunchanok , Sae-chueng Thita , Horpratraporn Kantasorn , Jaisamrarn Unnop , Santibenchakul Somsook
Published: June 2023

Background
Pre-existing diabetes mellitus (DM) is a challenging pregnancy complication as poor glycemic control is associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. In this study, we aimed to investigate DM-related knowledge, attitudes, preconception care practices, and contraceptive prevalence in women with DM.
Methods
This descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among reproductive-aged Thai women receiving DM treatment at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital between August 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022. Patients with DM who were not pregnant or trying to conceive and could be contacted via the phone were included and a validated self-administered questionnaire was distributed electronically.
Results
A total of 238 participants were included in the final analysis, yielding 69.4% response rates. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) score for knowledge of pregnancy planning and pregnancy-related risks was 6.0 (3.4) out of 15. Only about half of the participants had discussed pregnancy planning with their physicians. Multivariable analysis showed that younger age at DM diagnosis, married, higher education, and medical personnel were significantly associated with higher knowledge scores. Women aged > 45 and those with higher practice scores had significantly higher adjusted odds of using highly effective contraception; the most common methods included male condoms and combined oral contraceptive pills. There was an unmet need for contraception in 9.5% of women with DM.
Conclusions
Although highly effective contraception is safe for patients with DM, only about half of our participants used tier one or two contraceptives or had received consultation regarding preconception planning. There was a notable gap in care coordination among specialists; integrating reproductive healthcare into DM therapy would improve access to preconception care.
Pneumonia hospitalization risk attributable to ambient air pollution and temperature in a mid-temperate, industrial city: a time-series analysis
Authors: Xu Jiaying , Jia Huanhuan , Li Ming , Feng Tianyu , Qi Xiaodan , Yu Xihe
Published: June 2023

Background Pneumonia has become a public health problem of global concern, in which air pollution and meteorological conditions were important influencing factors.
Methods A time series analysis was conducted on the number of pneumonia hospitalizations. The generalized additive model and distributed lag nonlinear model were used to investigate the single-day and cumulative lag-day effects of air pollutants and temperature on pneumonia hospitalizations.
Results Air pollutants and meteorological factors were significantly associated with pneumonia hospitalizations. Over 7 days cumulative lag time, when the PM2.5, PM10, SO2, CO, and NO2 increased by 10 µg/m3(0.1 mg/m3 for CO), pneumonia hospitalizations increased by 0.56% (95% CI: 0.30, 0.81), 0.82% (95% CI: 0.62, 1.03), 4.74% (95% CI: 3.98, 5.50), 1.99% (95% CI: 1.60, 2.38), and 5.00% (95% CI: 4.24, 5.75) respectively, women and children are at higher risk. Within a cumulative lag time of 7 days, extreme cold (-18°C versus − 1°C) and extreme heat (27°C versus − 1°C) increased the risk of pneumonia hospitalizations by 8.96% (95% CI: 0.20, 18.49) and 40.78% (95% CI: 21.85, 62.65), respectively, with a higher risk in males, children, and elderly individuals.
Conclusions From 2015 to 2019, pneumonia in Changchun showed an increasing trend and decreased sharply in 2020. Increased concentrations of air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, SO2, CO, and NO2) led to an increased risk of pneumonia hospitalizations, with a significant lag effect, among them, SO2 and NO2 are the strongest effect. Extreme heat and cold can lead to an increased risk of pneumonia hospitalizations.
Consumer Preferences for Kiwiberries: Implications of Experimental Auctions
Authors: Wannemuehler Seth D. , Luby James J. , Yue Chengyan
Published: June 2023

In the current global market, the development of novel products is important for staying competitive. The development of horticultural products often manifests as new cultivars. Gauging consumer interest is an important step in cultivar development because it is a resource-intensive process. The present study used an experimental auction to measure consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for novel fruit referred to as kiwiberry (Actinidia arguta and Actinidia kolomikta) and explore consumer segmentation for their preferences. The mean WTP for 6-ounce packages of kiwiberries ranged from $1.63 to $2.19, depending on species and cultivar. Four groups of consumers were identified in relation to their WTP for kiwiberries. Using survey data, socio-demographic variables such as age, education, and neophobic attitudes were significantly different between the mixed kiwiberry price premium and kiwiberry discounting groups. These findings suggest that consumers with variety-seeking tendencies have a WTP for kiwiberries that is comparable to that for other berries. Marketing strategies for these groups are proposed.
“Reconnoitering the Association of Interleukin-6 with Chronic Periodontitis and Covid-19: An Observational Study
Authors: KUMARI SHARMILA
Published: June 2023

Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate comparatively the systemic levels of interleukin-6 in COVID-19 positive patients with/without chronic periodontitis and recovered COVID-19 patient with/without chronic periodontitis respectively. Methods: Total 200 consecutive confirmed cases were included and categorized equally into four groups- Group1A & Group 1B (COVID-19 positive), Group 2A & Group 2B (COVID-19 recovered),based on periodontal status along with Interleukin-6 levels. Peripheral blood samples were taken and Serum Interleukin-6 concentrations were tested using a highly sensitive (Chemiluminescence immunoassay) CLIA method on admission during hospital stay. Results: There were 50 subjects taken in all study groups. The mean age was 40.80, 38.02, 41.06, 38.98 in Group (1A,1B,2A&2B) respectively and the difference in mean age group was not significant (P>0.05). The mean interleukin-6 level was 26.0752, 1.5306, 4.1290, 0.7514 pg/ml in Group1A, 1B, 2A, 2B respectively and the difference was statistically significant (P-0.0001*). The mean difference in inter-group comparison was seen significant (P<0.05) among group1A vs(1B,2A,2B) & non-significant (P>0.05) among group1Bvs(2A,2B) & group2A vs 2B respectively. Conclusion: Chronic periodontitis must be included in diagnostic work-up to stratify SARS- CoV-2 severity.