bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-decadal trend analysis and forest disturbance assessment of European tree species: concerning signs of a subtle shift
Authors: Bonannella Carmelo , Parente Leandro , de Bruin Sytze , Herold Martin
Published: November 2023

Climate change poses a significant threat to the distribution and composition of forest tree species worldwide. European forest tree species' range is expected to shift to cope with the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, pests and diseases caused by climate change. Despite numerous regional studies, a continental scale assessment of current changes in species distributions in Europe is missing due to the difficult task of modeling a species realized distribution and to quantify the influence of forest disturbances on each species. In this study we conducted a trend analysis on the realized distribution of 6 main European forest tree species (Abies alba Mill., Fagus sylvatica L., Picea abies L. H. Karst., Pinus nigra J. F. Arnold, Pinus sylvestris L. and Quercus robur L.) to capture and map the prevalent trends in probability of occurrence for the period 2000–2020. We also analyzed the impact of forest disturbances on each species' range and identified the dominant disturbance drivers. Our results revealed an overall trend of stability in species' distributions (85% of the pixels are considered stable by 2020 for all species) but we also identified some hot spots characterized by negative trends in probability of occurrence, mostly at the edges of each species' latitudinal range. Additionally, we identified a steady increase in disturbance events in each species' range by disturbance (affected range doubled by 2020, from 3.5% to 7% on average) and highlighted species-specific responses to forest disturbance drivers such as wind and fire. Overall, our study provides insights into distribution trends and disturbance patterns for the main European forest tree species. The identification of range shifts and the intensifying impacts of disturbances call for proactive conservation efforts and long-term planning to ensure the resilience and sustainability of European forests.
A Pilot Case-Control Study of Obesity as a State of Metaflammation: Association with Toll-Like Receptor 2 (Arg753Gln) Gene Polymorphism
Authors: Fouad Shaimaa H. , Eldeeb Mai , Baioumy Shereen A. , Taha Sara I. , Ibrahim Rehab A. , Elgendy Aya , Hussain Marwa H.M. , Omran Azza A. , Roman Sylvia W.
Published: November 2023

Background: Obesity is a worldwide health issue linked to chronic metabolic low-grade inflammation (metaflammation) causing multiple obesity-related comorbid conditions. Several mediators were related to this metaflammatory process.
Objectives: To assess the serum levels of leptin, wingless integration site family member 5A (Wnt5a), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) as markers of obesity-associated metaflammation and investigate their association with toll-like receptors2 (TLR2) gene (Arg753Gln) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) among Egyptian females.
Methods: This pilot case-control study included 60 females with obesity and 30 matched controls. Serum levels of leptin, Wnt5a, and TNF-α were assessed by ELISA, while TLR2 (Arg753Gln) genotyping was done by PCR-RFLP. The laboratory and anthropometric data of both groups were compared and correlated.
Results: Serum leptin, Wnt5a, and TNF-α showed significantly higher levels in females with obesity and a significant increase with higher classes of obesity. They showed positive correlations with each other and with body weight, body mass index, fat mass index, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and waist and hip circumferences. Only TNF-α and Wnt5a were associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS) among the obesity group, with Wnt5a being the only independent risk factor for MetS. According to TLR2 (Arg753Gln) SNP, the homozygous GG genotype was associated with elevated levels of TNF-α, leptin, and Wnt5a compared to the heterozygous GA genotype, and it was associated with MetS among the obesity group. The frequencies of the heterozygous GA genotype and the A allele were higher among the obesity group without MetS than those with MetS.
Conclusion: Serum leptin, Wnt5a, and TNF-α are significantly higher in women with obesity and the A allele of TLR2 (Arg753Gln) SNP is considered protective against MetS among them.
Experiment to detect the electric charge of quantum vacuum fermions
Authors: Guglinski Wladimir
Published: November 2023

In 2013 EPJ D published a paper [1] in which is proposed an experiment that, if it confirms the prediction exposed in the paper, ultimately means a confirmation of the existence of fermions that make up the quantum vacuum. Here is shown a calculation of the value of the electric charge of these fermions. The value achieved for the charge e0 is 5.06532×10− 45 C. From this value of e0, together with the fundamental constants KO, c, ħ, α = 1/137, and the Bohr’s radius, the electric charge of the proton is calculated, achieving the value e = 1.6026×10− 19 C, which is very close to the experimental e = 1.60218×10− 19 C. The calculations from which those results were obtained are exposed here, and in the Conclusion at the end of the paper is shown that the result of such calculations cannot be mere coincidence. From different possibilities to modify the vacuum, if from an experiment be obtained a value close to 5×10− 45 C, the existence of such fermions will be definitively confirmed.
Bioremediation of Heavy Metals by Chlorella species
Authors: Pachouri Vikrant , Singh Rajesh , Gehlot Anita , Chandramauli Awadhesh , Thakur Amit Kumar , Gupta Lovi Raj
Published: November 2023

According to the United Nation, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) goal 6 and goal 14 seeks to ensure the sustainable management of water present over the earth for all. Water quality analysis becomes a huge requirement of today’s scenario due to the impurities present in water which harms the livelihood of society. Some of the hazardous impurities like heavy metals destruct the surroundings. In this study, the removal of heavy metals from wastewater with an efficient technique i.e. Bioremediation is represented with the analysis and evaluation of results recorded in the laboratory testing. Two samples were taken from two different sites which are being analyzed with the implementation methodology represented in the present article. Two algae Chlorella Minutissima & Chlorella Singularis were evaluated based on their impurity removal efficiency as well as analysis of the biological treatment method over other chemical methods have been examined. The results were analyzed and represented in the form of a table as well and the variation in the value of WQP is shown in the form of graphs. The observation shows that the variation in WQP after the integration of algae lies under the permissible limit. Alkalinity is estimated in the range of 20 – 40 mg/l, Hardness lies in the range of 0 – 60mg/l, and pH comes approximately in a range of 6.5 – 8. Based on the evaluation, the framework is generated for the efficient technique used for heavy metal removal.
Exploring the Environmental Impact of Energy Consumption, Globalization, and Research & Development in Europe: Insights from the STIRPAT-EKC Framework
Authors: Popescu Gheorghe H. , Nica Elvira , Kliestik Tomas , Zvarikova Katarina , Mihai Eleodor-Alin , Gura Kriselda
Published: November 2023

This paper investigates the relationships between GDP, population, fossil fuel, renewable energy consumption, globalization, research and development (R&D) expenditure, and ecological footprint in 25 European nations from 1990 to 2021. To investigate the environmental impact, the research bridging two famous framework, Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) and Strategic Impacts on Population, Affluence, and Technology (STIRPAT) models. Due to cross sectional dependency and slope heterogeneity the research applied cross-sectional autoregressive distributive model (CS-ARDL). The research applied two types of robustness checks- applying different dependent variable, CO2 instead of ecological footprint. Also, applied different estimator, Augmented Mean Group (AMG), Mean Group (MG), and common correlated effects mean group (CCEMG) estimators. The findings suggest the existence of an inverted U-shaped EKC relationship between income and ecological footprint, indicating that an increase in income initially leads to a rise in ecological footprint but eventually declines beyond a certain threshold due to environmental awareness and policy measures. Furthermore, green energy consumption and R&D expenditure have significant negative relationships with an ecological footprint, implying that promoting renewable energy sources and investing in R&D can help mitigate environmental degradation. The impact of globalization on ecological footprint is inconclusive, as different measures of globalization yield mixed results across the three approaches. This study contributes to the existing literature by utilizing multiple econometric approaches to examine the STIRPAT-EKC relationships, incorporating various determinants of ecological footprint in the European context. The findings provide policymakers with insights into designing effective environmental policies and strategies that balance economic growth, energy consumption, and ecological sustainability.
Prediction of non-small cell lung cancer N2 metastasis using HIF-1α expression–related multicenter 18 F-FDG PET/CT radiomics
Authors: Ju Hyemin , Choi Joon Young , Kim Kangsan , Hwang Gil Tae , Woo Sang-Keun
Published: November 2023

The prognosis for stage III N2 metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is poor. We aimed to develop an N2 metastasis prediction machine learning model using multicenter 18F- fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) radiomics correlating with hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α expression levels. Internal and external cohorts consisted of data of 66 patients from public databases and 102 patients from external institutions. Hub genes associated with metastasis were identified via functional enrichment analysis using stage III N2 metastasis and stage Ⅰ non-metastasis patients. The data of patients with pathological stage T2a or higher (tumor size > 3 cm) were extracted. Features were calculated from 18F-FDG PET/computed tomography (CT) images; internal and external cohorts were harmonized using the ComBat algorithm. Image features of the prediction model were selected based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Using functional gene analysis, HIF-1α was confirmed to be associated with N2 metastasis. Either radiomics correlated with hub genes or HIF-1α gene expression levels were used to construct RF models. The prediction performance of the model was the highest when using image features correlated with HIF-1α expression (accuracy = 0.83, AUC = 0.819). The RF model utilizing harmonized image features showed high performance for the cohort with high tumor size. Harmonization of radiomics is required when developing a machine learning model for predicting N2 metastasis using multicenter data. As lymph node involvement is the main prognostic factor, the prediction of N2 metastasis could facilitate personalized therapeutic strategies for NSCLC.
Chromosome-level genome assembly of Oncomelania hupensis: the intermediate snail host of Schistosoma japonicum
Authors: Liu Qin , Duan Lei , Guo Yun-Hai , Yang Li-Min , Zhang Yi , Li Shi-Zhu , Lv Shan , Hu Wei , Chen Nan-Sheng , Zhou Xiao-Nong
Published: November 2023

Background
Schistosomiasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease that is estimated to affect almost 300 million people worldwide. As one of the three major human parasites, Schistosoma japonicum is endemic in Southeast Asia, including China, Philippines and Indonesia. Transmission relies only on one snail host Oncomelania hupensis (Gastropoda: Pomatiopsidae). However, no genomic information for this important intermediate host is available.
Methods
Contig-level of O. hupensis assembly of an individual male O. hupensis snail was performed with full PacBio long reads using Next Denovo. The completeness and continuity of the assembly were assessed with Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs (BUSCO). CAFÉ was used to do analysis of contraction and expansion of the Gene family and CodeML module in PAML was used for positive selection analysis in protein coding sequences.
Results
A total length of 1.46 Gb high-quality O. hupensis genome with 17 unique full-length chromosomes (2n = 34) of the individual including a contig N50 of 1.35 Mb and a scaffold N50 of 75.08 Mb. Additionally, 95.03% of these contig sequences were anchored in 17 chromosomes. After scanning the assembled genome, a total of 30,604 protein-coding genes were predicted. Among them, 86.67% were functionally annotated. Further phylogenetic analysis using single copy protein-coding genes revealed that O. hupensis was separated from a common ancestors of Pomacea canaliculata and Bellamya purificata approximately 170 million years ago. Comparing the genome of O. hupensis with its most recent common ancestor, it showed 266 significantly expanded gene families (p < 0.05) and 58 significantly contracted gene families (p < 0.05). Functional enrichment of the expanded gene families indicated that they were mainly involved with intracellular, DNA-mediated transposition, DNA integration, transposase activity and hyalurononglucosaminidase activity. Additionally, a total of 281 protein-coding genes related to protein kinase activity, protein phosphorylation, catalytic activity and metabolic process under positive selection were identified in O. hupensis (FDR < 0.05).
Conclusion
A complete genome sequence of O. hupensis would enable the fundamental understanding of snail biology as well as its co-evolution with the S. japonicum parasite causing schistosomiasis in humans. Using a single molecular DNA sequencing technology, we have successfully constructed the genome at the chromosomal-level. These data will not only provide the compressive genomic information for the sole intermediated host of S. japonicum, but also benefit future work on population genetics of this snail as well as evolutional studies between S. japonicum and the snail host.
Imprints of Sagittarius accretion event: Young O-rich stars
and discontinuous chemical evolution in Milky Way disc
Authors: Bi Shao-Lan , Sun Tiancheng , Chen Xunzhou , Chen Yuqin , Liu Chao , Zhang Xianfei , Li Tanda , Li Yaguang , Wu Ya-Qian , Ge Zhishuai , Ye Lifei
Published: November 2023

The Milky Way has undergone significant transformations in its early history, characterised by violent mergers and the accretion of satellite galaxies. Among these events, the infall of the satellite galaxy Gaia-Enceladus/Sausage is recognised as the last major merger event, fundamentally altering the evolution of the Milky Way and shaping its chemo-dynamical structure. However, recent observational evidence suggests that the Milky Way remains undergone notable events of star formation in the past 4 Gyr, which is thought to be triggered by the perturbations from Sagittarius dwarf galaxy (Sgr). Here we report chemical signatures of the Sgr accretion event in the past 4 Gyr, using the [Fe/H] and [O/Fe] ratios in the thin disc, which is reported for the first time. It reveals that the previously discovered V-shape structure of age-[Fe/H] relation varies across different Galactic locations and has rich substructures. Interestingly, we discovery a discontinuous structure at zmax < 0.3 kpc, interrupted by a recent burst of star formation from 4 Gyr to 2 Gyr ago. In this episode, we find a significant rise in oxygen abundance leading to a distinct [O/Fe] gradient, contributing to the formation of young O-rich stars. Combined with the simulated star formation history and chemical abundance of Sgr, we suggest that the Sgr is an important actor in the discontinuous chemical evolution of the Milky Way disc.
Batch Electrocoagulation Process for the Removal of High Colloidal Clay from Open-Cast Coal Mine Water using Al and Fe Electrodes
Authors: Abfertiawan Muhammad Sonny , Syafila Mindryani , Handajani Marisa , Hasan Faiz , Oktaviani Hanifah , Gunawan Firman , Djali Febriwiadi
Published: November 2023

Open-cast coal mining, which involves massive excavation and stockpiling of overburden, has the potential to affect surface water quality. In addition to the potential generation of acid mine drainage owing to the presence of sulfide minerals, mining operations also have the potential to produce water with high total suspended solids (TSS) concentrations. This can occur owing to the presence of clay materials, especially colloidal clays, which prevent solid particles from settling naturally. This study aims to develop an alternative electrocoagulation technology that can be used to remove colloidal clay from mine water. Monopolar batch electrocoagulation was performed at a laboratory scale using aluminum and iron electrodes with variations in the current (0.5, 1, and 2 A) and contact time (15, 30, and 45 min). The results showed that aluminum electrode electrocoagulation, with a current of 2 A and a contact time of 15 min, had a TSS removal efficiency of 99.58%, with concentrations decreasing from 5,400 to 22.84 mg/L. Iron electrode electrocoagulation achieved the highest efficiency with a current of 2 A and a contact time of 30 min. The TSS removal efficiency reached 98.78% while the concentration dropped to 65.66 mg/L. This study is the initial stage to develop electrocoagulation technology. This technology may become an essential alternative for treating mine water with colloidal clay in the future.
Segmenting tourism companies with relational and technological bases
Authors: Fuentes-Blasco Maria , Moliner-Velázquez Beatriz , Gil-Saura Irene , Berenguer-Contrí Gloria
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study is to achieve a travel agencies segmentation based on both relational (trust, commitment, satisfaction, and loyalty) and technological (advancement and use of Information and Communication Technologies) criteria that improve the understanding of their strategic behaviours. The segmentation methodology uses a tandem approach: correspondence and hierarchical cluster analysis. From a sample of 256 travel agencies, four segments have been identified. Relational criteria have made it possible to segment only the retail agency market, while technological criteria have been shown to be more capable of segmenting the wholesale agency market. This work contributes to the advancement of the literature on business-to-business segmentation in tourism by providing a more complete vision of the segmentation of companies. From a practical approach, it allows a better knowledge of the agency segments, so it could be used for the selection not only of providers (customer perspective) but also of target segments (service provider perspective).
Allosteric Neutralization by Human H7N9 Antibodies
Authors: Wu Xueling , Jia Manxue , Zhao HanJun , Morano Nicholas , Lu Hong , Lui Yin-Ming , Du Haijuan , Becker Jordan , Yuen Kwok-Yung , Ho David , Kwong Peter , Shapiro Lawrence , To Kelvin Kai-Wang
Published: November 2023

The avian influenza A virus H7N9 causes severe human infections with more than 30% fatality despite the use of neuraminidase inhibitors. Currently there is no H7N9-specific prevention or treatment for humans. From a 2013 H7N9 convalescent case occurred in Hong Kong, we isolated four H7 hemagglutinin (HA)-reactive monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) by single B cell cloning, with three mAbs directed to the HA globular head domain (HA1) and one to the HA stem region (HA2). Two clonally related HA1-directed mAbs, H7.HK1 and H7.HK2, potently neutralized H7N9 and protected mice from a lethal H7N9/AH1 challenge. Cryo-EM structures revealed that H7.HK1 and H7.HK2 bind to a β14-centered surface partially overlapping with the antigenic site D of HA1 and disrupt the 220-loop that makes hydrophobic contacts with sialic acid on the adjacent protomer, thus affectively blocking viral entry. The more potent mAb H7.HK2 retained full HA1 binding and neutralization capacity to later H7N9 isolates from 2016-2017, which is consistent with structural data showing that the antigenic mutations of 2016-2017 from the 2013 H7N9 only occurred at the periphery of the mAb epitope. The HA2-directed mAb H7.HK4 lacked neutralizing activity but protected mice from the lethal H7N9/AH1 challenge when engineered to mouse IgG2a enabling Fc effector function in mice. Used in combination with H7.HK2 at a suboptimal dose, H7.HK4 augmented mouse protection. Our data demonstrated an allosteric mechanism of mAb neutralization and augmented protection against H7N9 when a HA1-directed neutralizing mAb and a HA2-directed non-neutralizing mAb were combined.
Hyaluronan in mesenchymal stromal cell lineage differentiation from human pluripotent stem cells: Application in serum free culture
Authors: De Sousa Paul A , Perfect Leo , Ye Jinpei , Samuels Kay , Piotrowska Ewa , Gordon Martin , Abranches Elsa , Wishart Thomas M , Dockrell David H , Courtney Aidan , Mate Ryan
Published: November 2023

Background
Hyaluronan (HA) is an extracellular glycosaminoglycan polysaccharide with widespread roles throughout development and in healthy and neoplastic tissues. In pluripotent stem cell culture it can support both stem cell renewal and differentiation. However, responses to HA in culture are influenced by interaction with a range of cognate factors and receptors including components of blood serum supplements, which alter results. These may contribute to variation in cell batch production yield and phenotype as well as heighten the risks of adventitious pathogen transmission in the course of cell processing for therapeutic applications.
Main
Here we characterise differentiation of a human embryo/pluripotent stem cell derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cell (hESC/PSC-MSC)-like cell population by culture on a planar surface coated with HA in serum-free media qualified for cell production for therapy. Resulting cells met minimum criteria of the International Society for Cellular Therapy for identification as MSC by expression of. CD90, CD73, CD105, and lack of expression for CD34, CD45, CD14 and HLA-II. They were positive for other MSC associated markers (ie.CD166, CD56, CD44, HLA 1-A) whilst negative for others (eg. CD271, CD71, CD146). In vitro co-culture assessment of MSC associated functionality confirmed support of growth of hematopoietic progenitors and inhibition of mitogen activated proliferation of lymphocytes from umbilical cord and adult peripheral blood mononuclear cells, respectively. Co-culture with immortalized THP1 monocyte derived macrophages (Mɸ) concurrently stimulated with lipopolysaccharide as a pro-inflammatory stimulus, resulted in a dose dependent increase in pro-inflammatory IL6 but negligible effect on TNFα. To further investigate these functionalities, a bulk cell RNA sequence comparison with adult human bone marrow (hBM) derived MSC and hESC substantiated a distinctive genetic signature more proximate to the former.
Conclusion
Cultivation of human pluripotent stem cells on a planar substrate of HA in serum-free culture media systems is sufficient to yield a distinctive mesenchymal stromal cell lineage with prospective therapeutic utilities for tissue morphogenesis and repair.
Diagnosis Challenges when Substance Use and Trauma are Part of the Narrative: A Review of Human Trafficking Cases Among Women and Critical Points of Learning for the Mental Health Community
Authors: Lavy-Joy Nicole Lavy-Joy
Published: November 2023

Human trafficking survivors often have a myriad of complex mental health issues because of their experiences. Research has shown there is a high correlation between substance use and post-traumatic stress disorder among survivors. The mental health challenges can become more complex when trauma and/or substance use is misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed. The results of this study show the prevalence of both situations among a program serving adult female survivors from within the US. The study documents the more common inaccurate diagnoses for this population of women, and the change in diagnosis after a dedicated period of assessment was completed. The discussion includes lack of understanding of how trauma and substance use present in a clinical or medical setting, an overfocus on other symptoms, lack of education and training among law enforcement, courts, and community service providers, and the exacerbated problems for survivors because of the incorrect or inaccurate diagnoses.
Urbanization and Wetland Degradation: Land Use Land Cover Change Analysis of the Aberdeen Creek, Sierra Leone River Estuary
Authors: Suleiman Aloysious Kingsley , Yang Changming , Sesay Alpha
Published: November 2023

The rapid urbanization of the global population is having devastating impacts on wetlands globally. In Sierra Leone, urbanization has resulted in the degradation of mangroves and the overall destruction of the wetland around Aberdeen Creek. This study therefore maps out, characterizes, and assesses the Land Use Land Cover Change, and potentials of Aberdeen Creek situated on the Sierra Leone River Estuary. The study will serve as an eye-opener for sustainable land use planning and preserving the Wetland under the supervision of the Ramsar Convention. In that light, the research was carried out using remote sensing and GIS techniques to analyze the extent of degradation on the wetland in three time series, which were mainly driven by Landsat imageries acquired in 2000, 2023 and predicted a 2033 scenario if urgent actions are not taken. The results show that there is an exponential settlement and infrastructural growth in the study area resulting to the quest for land, housing and other facilities/infrastructures that have given rise to changes in land cover, reduction and loss of the Wetlands. Furthermore, comparing the various time series, the result shows that, by the year 2000 there were abundant mangroves, but over two decades later in 2023, there is a drastic reduction in the mangroves, and the 2033 estimation predicted a worrisome outcome for the wetland. The study equally revealed alarming rates of environmental degradation due to ineffective legal frameworks and enforcement systems. It is therefore recommended that urgent actions be taken to evacuate people from those areas, halt further encroachment and regenerate lost species and ecosystems.
Gas Reservoir Detection Using Mixed Components Short Time Fourier Transform (MC-STFT) as a new attribute
Authors: Jalali Ali , Bagheri Majid
Published: November 2023

Identification of gas reservoirs as a main natural resource due to its economic importance has always been one of the most important issues in research studies in the oil and gas field. Accurate localization of a gas reservoir through seismic data has been broadly studied. The final destination of all seismic attributes is to distinguish a specific feature and make it detectable. Accordingly, many seismic attributes have been developed among which short time Fourier transform (STFT)-based methods play an important role. However, simplicity and efficiency can make a method superior. So we propose an attribute which utilizes mixed components of STFT (MC-STFT). The novelty about this method is that without altering STFT method or adding any complexity, MC-STFT is able to detect gas reservoirs at high resolution. In fact, this method takes advantage of extracting three frequency components obtained by STFT. We apply this method on three data sets, first, Marmousi model and then two other real seismic zero-offset sections. Numerical results confirm its good performance in high resolution gas reservoir detection.
Revealing the Pattern of Causality in Tourist Experience and Perception of Sacredness in Shamanic Heritage Destinations: Evidence from Northeast China
Authors: Lin Chunhua , Wang Guanqiang , Zeng Bing-Yu , Li Si-Jie , Xiong Lei , Yang Hua
Published: November 2023

With the growth of cultural route tourism and the transformation and upgrading of the needs and preferences of major consumer groups, maintaining and highlighting the sanctity of religious heritage tourism destinations is one of the key factors affecting the appeal of cultural tourism. The purpose of this study is to clarify the causal association rules between tourists’ tourism experience characteristics/attributes and destination sacredness perceptions, and then explore resource development and place-making strategies in religious tourism destinations with the goal of continuously enhancing local sacredness. This study collected 374 tourist questionnaire data, and applied rough set theory (RSA) and decision-making laboratory analysis method (DEMATEL) to conduct data exploration and analysis. The results of this study highlight the impact of architectural and landscape features of shamanic religious tourism destinations on tourists’ perceptions of sacredness. In addition, tourists' interpretation and participation are also important condition attributes. The results of this study will provide a key theoretical foundation for subsequent research. For the empirical cases in this study, this study provides a key decision-making reference for local culture and tourism management departments to enhance the destination's cultural tourism attraction and sustainability.
Inhibition of PbeXTH1 and PbeSEOR1 is required for the Valsa canker resistance contributed by Wall-associated kinase gene MbWAK1
Authors: Lu Yuan , Mao Xia , Wang Chao , Zheng Yan , Duo Hu , Sun E , Yu Hongqiang , Chen Zhongjian , ZUO Cunwu
Published: November 2023

Wall-associated kinases (WAKs) were determined the role for perceiving pathogenic signals and initiation of plant immune responses. However, the roles of the family members in host resistance against Valsa canker, a serious fungal disease of apple and pear, are largely unknown. Here, we identified MbWAK1in Malus baccata, a resistant germplasm, was differentially expressed during infection by Valsa mali (Vm) and multiple stress-related signals. Over-expression MbWAK1 enhanced the Valsa canker resistance of apple and pear fruits and ‘Duli-G03’ (Pyrus betulifolia) suspension cells. A large number of phloem, cell wall and lipid metabolic process-related genes were differentially expressed during overexpressed suspension cells lines respond to Valsa pyri (Vp) signals. Among these, the expression of xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase gene PbeXTH1 and sieve element occlusion-related gene PbeSEOR1 were significantly inhibited. Transient expression of PbeXTH1 or PbeSEOR1 obviously compromised the expressional induction of MbWAK1 and the resistance contributed by MbWAK1. In addition, MbWAK1 interacted with PbeXTH1 and PbeSEOR1, as well as several patterns recognize receptors, such as MdBAK1 and MdCERK1. Our results enriched the molecular mechanisms for MbWAK1 against Valsa canker and resistant breeding.
The dominant role of bacterial community and network characteristics drive the humification process and greenhouse gas emissions during plant residues composting under different aeration rates
Authors: Gu Junyu , CAO YUN , Sun Qian , Xu YUEDING , Huang Hongying
Published: November 2023

The study investigated the effects of different aeration intensities on organic matter (OM) degradation, greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) as well as humification during plant residue composting. Three intermittent aeration intensities of 0.16 (T1), 0.38 (T2) and 0.68 (T3) L/kg DM/min with 30 min on/30 min off were conducted on a lab-scale composting experiment. Results showed that OM mineralization in T3 was more evident than T1 and T2, resulting in the highest humification degree and humic acids (HA) content. HA content in T2 and T3 was 7.68% and 10.28% higher than that in T1. Medium aeration intensity was more favorable for emission of total GHG emission. Linear Discriminant Analysis Effect Size analysis showed that the biomarkers within T1 mainly belonged to Anaerolineaceae, while Thermostaphylospora was identified as biomarkers in T2. The enrichment of thermophilic bacterial genera may play important roles on promoting humification in T2 and T3. Bacterial network analysis showed that T3 had the most key nodes and edges. The interaction between bacterial community was strengthened and the network relationship was closest in T3. The Structural Equation Model confirmed the roles of dominant bacterial community on promoting humification. Oxygen concentration and pH indirectly affected both the mineralization and humification through the action of key microorganisms.
Gamma mark: An ingenuity to ease the aiming of melt inclusions in phenocrysts with NanoSIMS
Authors: MIYAGI Isoji
Published: November 2023

This short report introduces one of the ways to quickly and accurately aim melt inclusions in phenocryst using NanoSIMS.
"When Everyone is Responsible, No One Takes Responsibility": Pediatric Physiotherapy Services in Israel
Authors: Waiserberg Nilly , Horev Tuvia , Feder-Bubis Paula
Published: November 2023

Background
According to Israel's National Health Insurance Law (1994), the Ministry of Health is responsible for the provision of health services in the country including physiotherapy services; moreover, the Special Education Law (1988), stipulates that physiotherapy services for children with motor disabilities, as well as other allied health services, are provided by the Ministry of Education in educational settings. Thus, children with motor disabilities are entitled PT services under two different laws by two different ministries.
Method
To map the physiotherapy services for children with motor disabilities and examine how policymakers view these services, we conducted a qualitative study including in-depth semi-structured interviews with 10 policymakers from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education, and the national directors of physiotherapy services from three of the four health maintenance organizations in Israel.
Results
Study results indicate that there is an array of physiotherapy services and providers. Despite the regulation of these services for children with motor disabilities, uncertainty and lack of knowledge were found about various issues. Therefore, the thematic analysis was structured around four descriptive questions: Where do the children receive physiotherapy? Who is eligible for physiotherapy treatment and who receives treatment? What interventions do children with motor disabilities receive? Who provides therapy for children with motor disabilities?
Conclusions
Policymakers are dubious regarding the provision of these services, questioning whether children with motor disabilities receive physiotherapy services according to their needs. In addition, the abundance of suppliers does not necessarily improve the quality of services provided to children with motor disabilities, which may ultimately harm their developmental potential.
Mechanisms of differential sensitivity to ethanol-induced apoptosis in mouse spinal cord at different developmental stages—Akt/GSK signaling and BAX
Authors: Sun Shuaichen , Wang Zizhuo , Xu Xiaoxiang , Ding Xihui , Xu jianguang , Nan Xiang , Li Xiaohui , Xu Jinyong , ren zhenhua
Published: November 2023

Aims
The current study investigated differences in ethanol-induced apoptosis of spinal cord dorsal horn neurons at different developmental stages, and the molecular mechanisms involved.
Methods
A mouse ethanol intervention model was established at postnatal days 4, 7, and 12. Primary cells were derived from the spinal cord at postnatal day 4. Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry were used to detect apoptosis-related proteins in spinal cord and primary cells. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes originating from the Gene Expression Omnibus dataset GSE184615 was conducted. Effects on Akt/GSK3β pathway proteins were investigated using the GSK3β inhibitor AR-A014418, and the Akt inhibitor DHA. Lentiviral knockdown and overexpression of intervening GSK3β were used in HT22 cell lines to investigate the effects of alcohol on GSK 3β and caspase proteins. J-aggregates, reactive oxygen species assays, and calcein-AM assays were used to investigate mitochondrial function and cell viability.
Results
Ethanol caused downregulation of Akt activity, and upregulation of GSK3β activity and apoptosis. DHA, AR-A014418, and knockdown of GSK3β effectively counteracted ethanol-induced apoptosis, whereas overexpression of GSK3β enhanced the injury process. PI3K activity was unchanged during these processes. Fluorescence colocalization analysis indicated that BAX was translocated to mitochondria during the apoptotic process. BAX was downregulated as the spinal cord developed, consistent with a reduced susceptibility to ethanolinduced apoptosis.
Conclusions
Akt/GSK3β signaling, and BAX together determine the direction of alcoholinduced apoptosis and its susceptibility to change during developmental stages in the spinal cord.
Clinical characteristics and genetic analysis of children with Omicron BF.7.14 type novel coronavirus-related acute necrotizing encephalopathy
Authors: Zhang Jianzhao , Sun Jing , Li Dongqing , Xie Hua , Shangguan Shaofang , Ge Yangyang , Jiao Hui , Ma Caihui , Liu Zhao , Zhao Linqing , Chen Xiaoli , Yang Jian
Published: November 2023

Objective To explore the clinical characteristics, etiological factors, and genetic analysis of children with acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) related to the Omicron BF.7.14 novel coronavirus.
Methods We analyzed genomic variations in four ANE patients through pedigree full exon sequencing and a gene list focused on genomic intolerance. Additionally, we summarized the clinical data to explore the inheritance patterns associated with novel coronavirus-related ANE..
Results This study included four patients (2 males and 2 females) with an average age of 2.78 ±1.93 years. All the patients had prodromal symptoms of Omicron BF.7.14 virus infection, and exhibited symptoms such as altered consciousness, seizures and cognitive/language disturbances. Cranial MRI scans revealed damage to the thalamus, basal ganglia and brainstem. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cell counts were nearly normal, but protein level in CSF increased significantly. Genetic analysis revealed a novel truncated mutation in the CRMP2 gene in one case, which had not been reported before. This case had a more severe coma score and prognosis, ultimately resulting in fatality in the later stages. All children exhibited a decrease in the absolute count of T lymphocytes, helper T cells, suppressor T cells, and NK cells tovarying degrees. Furthermore, levels of cytokines, including IL-1 β, IL-5, IL-6 and IL-8 were significantly elevated in the CSF, especially in patient with truncated mutation of DPYSL2 gene.
Conclusion The Omicron BF.7.14 type novel coronavirus can lead to ANE, characterized by T cell immunosuppression and a significant increase in cytokine levels in the CSF. . The truncated variation of CRMP2 gene may affect the prognosis of ANE by affecting the migration of cerebral T cells.
A Superior Prognostic Indicator for In-Hospital Mortality of Adult COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Li Dan , He Wu , Wang Dao Wen , Ni Li
Published: November 2023

Aims: Despite the progressive decline in the virulence of the novel coronavirus, there has been no corresponding reduction in its associated fatality rate. Our aim was to redefine an accurate predictor of mortality risk in COVID-19 patients, enabling effective management and resource allocation.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 2917 adult patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who were admitted to our hospital during two waves of epidemics, involving the Beta and Omicron variants. Upon admission, NT-proBNP levels were measured, and we collected demographic, clinical, and laboratory data. We introduced a new concept called the NT-proBNP ratio, which measures the NT-proBNP level relative to age-specific maximum normal values. The primary outcome was all-cause in-hospital mortality.
Results: Our analysis revealed a higher in-hospital mortality rate in 2022, as shown by the Kaplan-Meier Survival Curve. To assess the predictive value of the NT-proBNP ratio, we employed the time-dependent receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve. Notably, the NT-proBNP ratio emerged as the strongest predictor of mortality in adult hospitalized COVID-19 patients (area under the curve, AUC = 0.826; adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 3.959; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.001–5.221; P < 0.001). This finding consistently held true for both the 2020 and 2022 subgroups.
Conclusions: The NT-proBNP ratio demonstrates superior predictive capability compared to several established risk factors, including NT-proBNP, hsCRP, and NLR, when it comes to forecasting in-hospital mortality among adult patients with COVID-19.
Clinical Trial Registration: www.chictr.org.cn ChiCTR2000031587 and www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT05615792
Spatio-temporal Modelling of Extreme Low Birth Rates in U.S. Counties
Authors: Zhang Yingqing , Wang Kai , Bai Long , Chen Ying , Ling Chengxiu
Published: November 2023

The continuous declining rate of birth may cause severe worldwide problems, including population ageing and demographic imbalance. This paper aims to identify the geographic disparities and potentially influential factors of the extreme downward excess of birth rates in the U.S. at the county level from 2003 to 2020. The innovative Bayesian generalized Pareto quantile regression model is employed for analysing the spatio-temporal pattern of stressful low birth rate and its association with socioeconomic, demographic, and meteorological factors. The optimal SPDE-AR(1) structured model is selected based on common Bayesian criteria and scaled threshold weighted continuous ranked probability score, indicating apparent spatial unbalance and increasing tendency of extremely low birth rate. The findings show that elderly, highly educated population structure, developed economic situation (GDP per capita, RUCC (degree of rurality)), average birth weight, and average age of mother have a significant impact on the stressful downward excess of birth rate, including Charlotte, Sarasota, Collier counties in Florida, and Marin, Santa, Cruuz, San Mateo in California. Conversely, the increasing female proportion, personal income, and temperature can alleviate the declining birth rate pressure. The methodology utilized here is productive for analysing extreme population stress, including but not limited to birth weight and cognitive impairment.
Prognostic Performance of MRI LI-RADS version 2018 Features and Clinical-Pathological Factors in Alpha-Fetoprotein-Negative Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Leyao , Feng Bing , Liang Meng , Li Dengfeng , Cong Rong , Chen Zhaowei , Wang Sicong , Ma Xiaohong , Zhao Xinming
Published: November 2023

Purpose
To evaluate the performance of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) version 2018 features and clinical-pathological factors for predicting the prognosis of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-negative (≤ 20 ng/ml) hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, and to compare with other traditional staging systems.
Methods
We retrospectively enrolled 169 patients with AFP-negative HCC who received preoperative MRI and hepatectomy between January 2015 and August 2020 (derivation dataset: validation dataset = 118: 51). A prognostic model was constructed using the risk factors identified via Cox regression analysis. Predictive performance and discrimination capability were evaluated and compared with those of two traditional staging systems.
Results
Six risk factors, namely the LI-RADS category, blood products in mass, microvascular invasion, tumor size, cirrhosis, and albumin–bilirubin grade, were associated with recurrence-free survival. The prognostic model constructed using these factors achieved C-index of 0.705 and 0.674 in the derivation and validation datasets, respectively. Furthermore, the model performed better in predicting patient prognosis than traditional staging systems. The model effectively stratified patients with AFP-negative HCC into high- and low-risk groups with significantly different outcomes (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
A prognostic model integrating the LI-RADS category, blood products in mass, microvascular invasion, tumor size, cirrhosis, and albumin–bilirubin grade may serve as a valuable tool for refining risk stratification in patients with AFP-negative HCC.
Bang and the Artefacts are Gone! Rapid Artefact Removal and Tissue Segmentation in Haematoxylin and Eosin Stained Biopsies
Authors: Schreiber Benjamin , Denholm James , Jaeckle Florian , Arends Mark , Branson Kim , Schönieb Carola-Bibane , Soilleux Elizabeth
Published: November 2023

We present H&E Otsu thresholding, a scheme for rapidly detecting tissue in whole-slide images (WSIs) that eliminates a wide range of undesirable artefacts such as pen marks and scanning artefacts. Our method involves obtaining a bimodal representation of a low-magnification RGB overview image which enables simple Otsu thresholding to separate tissue from background and artefacts. We demonstrate our method on WSIs prepared from a wide range of institutions and WSI digital scanners, each containing substantial artefacts that cause other methods to fail. The beauty of our approach lies in its simplicity: manipulating RGB colour space and using Otsu thresholding allows for the rapid removal of artefacts and segmentation of tissue.
Classifying Emergency Patients into Fast-Track and Complex Cases Using Machine Learning
Authors: Karajeh Ala' , Eskicioglu Rasit
Published: November 2023

Background: Emergency medicine is a lifeline specialty at hospitals that patients head to for various reasons, including serious health problems, traumas, and adventitious conditions. Emergency departments are restricted to limited resources and personnel, which complicates handling all received cases optimally. Therefore, crowded waiting areas and long waiting durations result, which prompts some patients to leave before being examined.
Methods: We utilized the databases (MIMIC-IV-ED and MIMIC-IV) to obtain records of patients who visited the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in the USA. Triage and demographic data, dispositions, and length of stay of these individuals were extracted accordingly. Subsequently, the urgency of these cases was inferred based on standards stated in the literature and followed in developed countries, which are less than four-hour lengths of stay besides being discharged at the end of the emergency visit. Five classifying models were established by utilizing logistic regression, random forests, stochastic gradient boosting, classification and regression trees besides multi-layer perceptron algorithms.
Results: A comparative framework using the five different machine learning algorithms was developed to classify these patients into two categories where the multi-layer perceptron model outperformed the others. Moreover, the relative importance of the outcome predictors was determined.
Conclusions: This study suggests an approach to deal with non-urgent visits and lower overall waiting times at the emergency by utilizing the powers of machine learning to identify fast-track patients and discern them from critical cases.