bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF FOOD AND POST-HARVEST RESEARCH IN ENHANCING THE INTEGRITY OF HALAL FOOD INDUSTRY
Authors: Kusuma Redika Ardi
Published: December 2023

Halalness of products has been a global concern in recent years due to increasing awareness, especially in Muslim-populated countries. However, Indonesia, the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, is only ranked 5th in halal industry development. Therefore, producers and consumers are expected to have a deeper understanding of halal practices that can encourage the development of industries with halal-certified products. This paper aimed to systematically and quantitatively plot the output of scientific research on implementing food and postharvest technology to improve the integrity of the halal food industry. The research method was bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer as a mapping tool. This research has four stages: (i) collection of bibliometric data from the Scopus database, (ii) performance analysis using embedded Scopus analysis tool, (iii) data mapping using VOSviewer, and (iv) mapping data analysis. Out of 2,875, only 161 keywords from 455 articles met the analysis threshold. The results showed that the topic of meat received the most attention from 2008 to 2021, found in 84 articles with 878 total link strengths. Furthermore, one of the most cited research topics recently was related to modeling the theory of planned behavior with factors of Halal awareness, certification, food quality, promotion, and brand on the intention to purchase halal products by non-Muslim consumers, with 203 citations from 2013 to 2021. In general, researchers can use this study to examine trends and directions of future research topics comprehensively.
Clique Homology is QMA1-hard
Authors: Crichigno Marcos , Kohler Tamara
Published: December 2023

Extracting meaningful information from large data sets is a challenging computational task. Here we show that the problem of extracting the “shape” of classical data, formalized in the Clique Homology Problem, is QMA1-hard, i.e., at least as hard as quantum k-SAT. For inputs satisfying a suitable promise the problem is contained in QMA, the class of problems that can be efficiently verified by a quantum computer. These results are ultimately rooted in the assertion, first noted by Witten, that the study of homology is equivalent to the study of quantum ground states of supersymmetric systems, a class of physical systems exhibiting a symmetry relating bosonic and fermionic states. We anticipate that the results reported here will serve as the starting point for investigating the possibility of quantum advantage in computational topology and classical data analysis using techniques from quantum many-body physics.
Thrombospondin 2 in Hepatitis B: A Prognostic Insight into Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk During Nucleos(t)ide Analog Therapy
Authors: Okumura Taiki , Kimura Takefumi , Ichikawa Yuki , Iwadare Takanobu , Wakabayashi Shun-ichi , Kobayashi Hiroyuki , Yamashita Yuki , Pydi Sai , Tanaka Naoki , Umemura Takeji
Published: December 2023

Aims
Thrombospondin 2 (TSP2) plays a vital role in collagen/fibrin formation, bone growth, vascular density regulation, hemostasis, and cell adhesion. We earlier revealed close associations of serum TSP2 with histological severity in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and chronic hepatitis C. The present study investigated the significance of circulating TSP2 in chronic hepatitis B patients.
Methods
Eighty-seven biopsy-proven chronic hepatitis B patients were analyzed in cross-sectional Study 1 to search for correlations between serum TSP2 levels prior to liver biopsy and clinicopathological parameters. In longitudinal Study 2, 51 chronic hepatitis B patients with long-term follow-up (mean: 7.5 years) were examined for changes in serum TSP2 levels during nucleos(t)ide analog (NA) therapy along with trends in hepatocarciongenesis.
Results
In Study 1, serum TSP2 levels were not significantly associated with portal inflammation or fibrosis. Study 2 revealed that serum TSP2 was significantly decreased after 48 weeks of NA therapy (P < 0.001). Notably, TSP2 levels at 48 weeks of NA administration (TSP2-48W) were significantly higher in the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (+) group than in the HCC (-) group (P = 0.043). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that higher TSP2-48W (≥ 24 ng/mL) was associated with future HCC development (P = 0.030).
Conclusion
Serum TSP2 levels may be a potential predictor of HCC development in hepatitis B patients receiving NA therapy. Longitudinal prospective studies are necessary to validate our findings.
Preparation and Performance Study of SrLSX Molecular Sieve by Ion Exchange Method
Authors: Liu ManYu , Liang Yingbin , Han Keyi , Zhao Xinyu , Zhou Qianyu , Han Lin , zhao Dongye , li Yong
Published: December 2023

Oxygen is widely used in many fields. The mainstream oxygen production method is pressure swing adsorption (PSA). The LiLSX molecular sieve is recognized as the best-performing PSA oxygen-generating molecular sieve material. However, with the rapid development and popularization of electric vehicles and the substantial demand increase for energy storage amid the development of renewable energy, the demand for lithium-ion batteries is also increasing sharply. Hence, lithium-containing LiLSX molecular sieves are also becoming expensive. In this study, the SrLSX molecular sieve material was prepared using an ion exchange method. This material has the same FAU crystal structure as LiLSX and NaLSX, and its PSA oxygen production performance is similar to that of the LiLSX molecular sieve, much higher than NaLSX. It also shows better stability at high temperatures than the LiLSX molecular sieve. Considering the economic benefits and efficiency of PSA oxygen production, SrLSX is a promising molecular sieve material for PSA oxygen production.
Patterns of variation and relationships among fat, protein, and milk yield of individual dairy cattle in a Thai multibreed population
Authors: Korket Thanyarat , Koonawootrittriron Skorn , Suwanasopee Thanathip , Jattawa Danai
Published: December 2023

This study systematically examines the patterns of milk yield (MY, kg), fat (FAT, %), and protein (PROT, %) in a diverse population of Thai multibreed dairy cattle, considering the tropical environment's impact on lactating cows. Using a dataset of 47,205 monthly test-day records from 4,440 first-lactation cows across 446 farms, we analyze variations and interrelationships through mathematical averaging and introduce the fat-to-protein ratio (FPR) to assess acidosis (FPR < 1.1) and ketosis (FPR > 1.5) risks during lactation. Pearson correlation analysis elucidated trait associations. The findings, aligned with established lactation norms, indicate peak production at 297 days in milk (DIM) for FAT (4.08%; SD = 0.96%), PROT (3.43%; SD = 0.47%), and 52 DIM for MY (18.09 kg; 4.91 kg). Nadirs are observed at 72 DIM for FAT (3.27%; SD = 0.74%), 47 DIM for PROT (2.86%; SD = 0.36%), and 299 DIM for MY (9.05 kg; SD = 2.95 kg). FPR variations highlight acidosis (46.48%), normal (43.66%), and ketosis (9.86%), especially during early lactation (100 DIM). Significant negative correlations emerge between MY, FAT, and PROT (P < 0.05), while a positive correlation is identified between FAT and PROT (P < 0.01), with robust correlations during early lactation. This study contributes to understanding tailored nutritional strategies for the holistic health and sustainability of dairy cows in tropical environments, guiding efficient production practices and mitigating health-related productivity impediments.
Distribution and geochemical speciation of metals in the sediments of marine aquaculture areas in Japan
Authors: Han Shuping , Tai Rie , Masunaga Shigeki , Naito Wataru
Published: December 2023

Metal contamination is a crucial environmental issue because of its persistence and toxicity, which can have deleterious effects on aquatic ecosystems. Coastal sediments serve as reservoirs for metals. Aquaculture is an important human activity in coastal areas; however, the actual status of metal distribution in these areas has not been well characterized. We investigated the distribution and geochemical speciation of metals in the sediments of the Japanese aquaculture areas of Shidugawa and Furue Bays. Total metals were generally in the order Zn > Cu > Ni > Cd > Pb and occurred at high levels at the sites in the inner parts and near the fish cages in the sampling areas. Pearson’s correlations and principal component analysis results suggested that the metals in these aquaculture areas might originate from several sources, such as fish faeces, fish feeds, corrosion of antifouling material residues, and local anthropogenic activities, including fertilizers and manures. Furthermore, metals were mainly in silts and fine sediments, associated with residual speciation, followed by organic fractions, oxides, and high fractions of exchangeable Cd. These results provide important insights into the accumulation of metals in sediments for better managing marine aquaculture in Japan.
Prevalence and determinants of unsuccessful tuberculosis treatment outcome among drug-susceptible tuberculosis patients in Rwanda
Authors: Gatete Gaetan , Ruton Hinda , Migambi Patrick , Nshimiyimana Kizito , Ntaganira Joseph
Published: December 2023

Background
Despite the effective diagnostic tools and treatment availability, tuberculosis (TB) remains the top cause of death as a single infectious disease worldwide. However, there is limited evidence on determinants of unsuccessful TB treatment outcome among drug-susceptible TB (DSTB) patients in Rwanda. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the determinants of unsuccessful TB treatment outcomes among adult DSTB patients in Rwanda.
Methods
A retrospective study was conducted among DSTB patients registered in the national electronic TB reporting system by all health facilities countrywide from July 2019 to June 2022. Patients aged 15 years and above with recorded treatment outcomes were included in the study. Multivariable logistic regression was performed using STATA 17 to determine factors associated with unsuccessful TB treatment outcomes. Adjusted odds ratio (OR), 95% confidence interval (CI), and p-value < 0.05 were reported.
Results
This study included 14,548 patients. Of them, 1527 (10.5%) patients had unsuccessful treatment outcome. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, not receiving ART (AOR = 4.3, 95% C.I:2.9–6.3), history of first-line TB treatment failure (AOR = 2.9, 95% C.I: 1.0-8.1), not being followed-up by community health workers (CHWs) (AOR = 1.6, 95% C.I:1.2–2.1), BMI < 18.5 at treatment initiation (AOR = 1.4, 95% C.I:1.1–1.8), extra-pulmonary TB (AOR = 0.5, 95% C.I:0.4–0.7), and clinically diagnosed (AOR = 0.4, 95% C.I:0.3–0.6), were found to be significantly associated with unsuccessful TB treatment outcome.
Conclusion
The study showed that unsuccessful TB treatment outcome among DSTB patients was low compared to studies conducted in other settings. This highlights a good progress in fighting against TB, but targeted strategies are still needed to address the remaining gap.
Multiple treatments with human embryonic stem cell-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells preserved fertility and ovarian function of perimenopausal mice undergoing natural aging.
Authors: Shin Eun-Young , Jeong Suji , Lee Jeoung Eun , Jeong Dongseok , Han Dong Keun , Hong Seok-Ho , Lee Dong Ryul
Published: December 2023

Objectives: There is no approved therapy to preserve ovarian health with aging. To solve this problem, we developed a long-term treatment of human embryonic stem cell-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells (hESC-MPCs) and investigated whether the cells retained the ability to resist ovarian aging, leading to delayed reproductive senescence.
Materials and Methods: In a middle-aged female model undergoing natural aging, we analyzed whether hESC-MPCs have a beneficial effect on the long-term maintenance of reproductive fecundity and the ovarian reservoir or how their transplantation regulates ovarian function.
Results: The number of primordial follicles and mice with regular estrous cycles were increased in perimenopausal mice underwent multiple introductions of hESC-MPCs compared to age-matched controls. The level of estradiol in the hESC-MPC group was similar to that of the young and adult groups. Embryonic development and live birth rate were increased in the hESC-MPC group compared with the control group, suggesting a delay in ovarian senescence by hESC-MPCs. In addition to the direct effects on the ovary, multiple-treatments with hESC-MPCs reduced ovarian fibrosis by downregulating inflammation and fibrosis-related genes via suppression of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) produced in bone marrow.
Conclusions: Multiple introduction of hESC-MPCs could be a useful approach to maintain ovarian function in female reproductive aging and that these cells are promising sources for cell therapy to postpone the ovarian aging and retain fecundity in perimenopausal women.
3D Printed Titanium-Aluminum-Vanadium Alloy Produced at Various Laser Powers: Evaluation of Microstructures and Mechanical Characteristics
Authors: Salim Ali Aqeel , Bakhtiar Hazri , Ghoshal Sib Krishna , Aziz Muhammad Safwan Abd
Published: December 2023

Achieving 3D printed Ti6Al4V alloy with customized microstructures and mechanical characteristics remains challenging, wherein the processing efficiency mainly depends on the laser energy, mass deposition rate, and duration. Based on these factors, a simple and eco-friendly direct laser metal deposition approach was followed to get 3D printed Ti6Al4V alloys at various laser powers (300–500 W). Herein, a 1.5 kW continuous fiber laser of wavelength 1080 nm was used to create the stable and dense alloy. The obtained 3D printed specimens were characterized to assess the laser power-dependent microstructures, compositions, microhardness, grain sizes, color-filling and dimensional stability in terms of height/width. FESEM micrographs of the obtained alloys revealed the existence of porous spherical grains of mean size in the range of 50–81 𝜇𝑚. The alloy deposited at 300 W and 0.495 mm/s scan speed displayed the maximum hardness (excellent bong strength) value of 859.2 HV0.5 devoid of any crack and porosity. XRD patterns of the alloy revealed the existence of α + β martensitic phase transformation which as responsible for the marginal increase of hardness. It is asserted that the proposed 3D printed Ti6Al4V alloy can be beneficial for the development of efficient structural parts desired for diverse applications.
Digital music and movement resources to improve health and wellbeing in older adults in care homes: a pilot randomised trial.
Authors: De Nys Len , Oyebola Esther , Connelly Jenni , Ryde Gemma , Whittaker Anna
Published: December 2023

Background: Low physical activity among older adults is related to adverse health outcomes such as depression and loneliness, poor physical function and increased risk of falls. This study was designed to increase physical activity through a digital, group-based, physical activity and music resource and to examine its effectiveness on social, mental and physical health outcomes.
Methods: Participants were 34 older adults (65 years+) recruited across four care homes in Scotland to a randomised controlled pilot study with waitlist controls. Surveys were administered at baseline and post-intervention, comprising measures of fear of falling, depression and anxiety, loneliness, sleep satisfaction and quality of life. A battery of physical function tests and saliva sampling for cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone hormone analysis were also conducted at each time point. Additionally, process evaluation measures (recruitment, intervention fidelity, attendance, retention rates and safety) were monitored. The intervention comprised 12 weeks of three prescribed digital sessions per week: movement to music (n=2) and music-only (n=1), delivered by an activity coordinator in the care home. Post-intervention interviews with staff and participants were conducted to gain qualitative data on the acceptability of the intervention.
Results: An average of 88% of prescribed sessions were delivered. The waitlist control group design was not adhered to. Intention-to-treat analysis across all participants revealed significant improvements in anxiety, salivary DHEA, fear of falling and loneliness. There were no significant improvements in health-related quality of life, perceived stress, sleep satisfaction or physical function tests, including handgrip strength. Qualitative analysis highlighted benefits of and barriers to the programme.
Conclusions: The digital movement and music intervention was deemed acceptable and delivered with moderate fidelity, justifying progression to a full-scale trial. Although a proper control group would have yielded more confident causal relationships, preliminary psychosocial and biological effects were evident from this trial. To show significant improvements in physical function, it is likely that greater adherence, longer intervention and/or higher exercise volume may be necessary.
Trial registration: The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT05601102 on 01/11/2022
Numerical simulations on compression behaviors of the laminated shale based on the digital image technology and the discrete element method
Authors: Wang Zidong , Ding Xiaoxuan , Liu Jianlin , Fu Li-Yun
Published: December 2023

As an unconventional reservoir sedimentary rock, the shale contains a series of layers and various microstructures that may lead to complex mechanical properties, such as the anisotropy of stiffness and strength. The present study is directed towards the anisotropy caused by the microstructures of the shale, where the 2D particle flow code (PFC2D) is adopted to explore the stiffness, strength, failure mode, and micro-crack evolution. More realistic microstructures and the calibration of microscopic parameters of the shale are reasonably considered through the computed tomography (CT) images and mineral analysis. The corresponding numerical simulation results are fully compared with the experimental results. In what follows, the sensitivity analysis is conducted on the key microscopic parameters and microstructure characteristics in numerical samples with laminated characteristics. The results show that the influence of microscopic parameters of the parallel bonding model on macroscopic parameters is related to the layering angle and the face type, and the microstructures and initial cracks of numerical samples can considerably affect the macroscopic mechanical behaviors of the laminated samples. Next, the effect of confining pressure on the mechanical properties of layered shale is discussed based on the numerical results. These findings highlight the potential of this approach for applications in micro-scaled models and calibration of microscopic parameters to probe mechanical behaviors of the laminated rock.
Secure Emergency Data Sharing in Healthcare - A Data Warehouse View
Authors: Thantilage Ranul D. , Yasarathna Tharindu Lakshan , Le-Khac Nhien-An , Kechadi Tahar
Published: December 2023

Clinical data's vast volume and diverse formats, compounded by the intricacies of healthcare and
the heightened importance of security and privacy, necessitate sophisticated data management and
governance systems. Existing studies often examine components like data distribution, privacy, and
security in isolation. This research bridges the gaps by developing an efficient, integrated
clinical data warehousing solution emphasizing both privacy and security at all stages. The study
presents a distributed data warehouse architecture designed after meticulous research and
analysis. Testing was conducted using clinical datasets, leading to the creation of privacy and
security components such as the Digital Emergency Medical Card and Emergency Authenticator. The
prototype's evaluations highlight a viable balance between system performance and stringent
security standards, showcasing the efficiency of encryption and other security
measures. Ultimately, this study offers a holistic solution, combining theory and practice, for
secure clinical data management in healthcare.
The localization, origin, and impact of platelets in the tumor microenvironment are tumor type-dependent
Authors: CHAPELAIN Ophélie LE , Jadoui Soumaya , Gros Angèle , Barbaria Samir , Benmeziane Keltouma , Ollivier Véronique , Dupont Sébastien , Nomenjanahary Mialitiana Solo , Mavouna Sabrina , Mawhin Marie-Anne , Caligiuri Giuseppina , Delbosc Sandrine , Porteu Françoise , Nieswandt Bernhard , Mangin Pierre H , Boulaftali Yacine , Ho-Tin-Noé Benoît
Published: December 2023

Background
How platelets interact with and influence the tumor microenvironment (TME) remains poorly characterized.
Methods
We compared the presence and participation of platelets in the TME of two tumors characterized by highly different TME, PyMT AT-3 mammary tumors and B16F1 melanoma.
Results
We show that whereas firmly adherent platelets continuously line tumor vessels of both AT-3 and B16F1 tumors, abundant extravascular stromal clusters of platelets from thrombopoietin-independent origin were present only in AT-3 mammary tumors. We further show that platelets influence the angiogenic and inflammatory profiles of AT-3 and B16F1 tumors, though with very different outcomes according to tumor type. Whereas thrombocytopenia increased bleeding in both tumor types, it further caused severe endothelial degeneration associated with massive vascular leakage, tumor swelling, and increased infiltration of cytotoxic cells, only in AT-3 tumors.
Conclusions
These results indicate that while platelets are integral components of solid tumors, their localization and origin in the TME, as well as their impact on its shaping, are tumor type-dependent.
Partially non-ergodic ground motion model for the Bucaramanga seismic nest in Northern South America (NoSAm Nest GMM)
Authors: Pájaro César A. , Carlos Arteta A. , Vicente Mercado , Julián Montejo , Arcila Mónica , Abrahamson Norman
Published: December 2023

The Bucaramanga seismic nest has the highest concentration of seismic events with magnitudes over 4.8 worldwide. Despite the nest depth, these events play a crucial role in the seismic hazard assessment for several cities in northern South America (NoSAm), particularly those situated close to their epicenters. Moreover, these earthquakes are widely felt across the country, even hundreds of kilometers away from the nest. This paper assesses the performance of commonly used subduction intra-slab Ground Motion Models (GMMs) in predicting the updated nest database gathered and processed by the Colombian Geological Survey. This analysis confirms the necessity of a partially non-ergodic ground motion model for estimating the spectral acceleration produced by Bucaramanga nest earthquakes in northern South America. The GMM presented herein is the first model developed specifically for seismic nests in the region and is conceived as a regionalization of the recent NGA-Sub Abrahamson and Gülerce (2022) GMM. Additionally, we provide estimates of the variance components at both the earthquake and station levels and compare the developed GMM with the spectral accelerations recorded for typical earthquakes, for the highest magnitude earthquake in the database, and for the most recent Bucaramanga nest earthquake having a moment magnitude over 5.
Industrially relevant Injection Moulding Apparatus for In-Situ Time- Resolving Small-Angle X-ray Scattering Measurements
Authors: Costa Andre , Gameriro Fábio , Massano Anabela Paiva , Arioli Matteo , Silva Daniel Pedrosa da , Carreira Pedro , Martinez Juan Carlos , Matias Joao , Martinho Pedro G , Mateus Artur , Mitchell Geoffrey Robert
Published: December 2023

This work is the first step in the development of a multi-scale digital twin of an injection moulding system. It presents the design and construction of an automated industrial injection moulding apparatus that can be used with a typical multi-user beamline such as the NCD-SWEET small-angle X-ray scattering at the ALBA Synchrotron Light Source. This apparatus is focused on developing an understanding of how the mould temperature and the injection temperature affect both the orientation and morphology of the semi-crystalline polymer used to fabricate the injected parts. The system design follows current industrial practice and enables the collection of time-resolved X-ray scattering data at several points within the mould cavity so we can understand the 4D morphology. In this work we show the effectiveness of the equipment using some results from the injection moulding of isotactic polypropylene and polyhydroxybutyrate.
Maternal cardiovascular and haematological diseases alter the risk associations between environmental exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Sun Haitong , Guo Yuming , Tang Haiyang , Zhao Huan , Xiang Qingyi , Tian Yijia , Bai Xiaoxia , Daalen Kim , Archibald Alexander , Tang Kun , Loo Evelyn Xiu Ling , Shek Lynette , Xu Wei
Published: December 2023

China’s “three-child policy” in response to population ageing has cast safeguarding perinatal health an urgent priority, whereas previous research seldom explored the pregnancy-related cardiovascular and haematological diseases. Here we conducted comprehensive epidemiological analyses on 121,090 pregnant women and their 124,025 neonates from the ZEBRA Chinese prospective maternity cohort. We find that unit incremental exposure in PM2.5, O3, and green space can change the risks of maternal pregnancy-induced cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) by 7.3% (95% confidence interval 6.4–8.2%), 2.7% (2.2–3.3%), and –3.6% (1.8–5.2%), respectively. Maternal cardiovascular and haematological diseases significantly aggravate the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs, including congenital heart disease) by 69.3% (61.5–77.5%), and also modify the environment-APO risk associations by amplifying the hazards of air pollution and weakening the protective effect of greenness accessibility. Our research supports several Sustainable Development Goals by providing first-hand epidemiological evidence and clinical guidance for maternal and neonatal health protection.
Impact of Senior Management’s Financial Intelligence on the Financial Performance of Banks and Insurance Companies in the Gaza Strip
Authors: Safi Samir K. , Dorgham Maher M. , Allaloul Sana A.
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the impact of senior management’s financial intelligence on the financial performance of banks and insurance companies operating in the Gaza Strip. The study followed the descriptive analytical approach to measure financial performance by relying on the financial reports of the sample companies for 2022. The results indicated that the dimensions of financial intelligence were available. Banks and insurance companies have good financial performance. Furthermore, financial intelligence significantly affected the performance of banks and insurance companies, as measured by return on investment (ROI) and return on assets (ROA). The dimensions of financial intelligence also significantly impacted the performance of banks and insurance companies as measured by return on equity (ROE). Simultaneously, there was no significant effect of financial intelligence on the performance of banks and insurance companies as measured by ROE. To the best of the author’s knowledge, the current study is among the first research efforts in Palestine. The findings indicate that senior management should pay greater attention to developing financial intelligence skills among employees in supervisory positions, especially those in the administrative, financial, and planning fields, due to their impact on improving companies’ performance.
Driving mechanism and prediction of electricity carbon emissions in developing countries - a case of Gansu Province, China
Authors: Yang Qinzhe , Qiao Fuwei , Shi Wei , Yang Xuedi , Ouyang Guanwen , Zhao Lulu
Published: December 2023

The electric power industry is a key industry for the country to achieve the double carbon target. Its low carbon development has a double effect on this industry and helps other industries to achieve the carbon peak target. This paper firstly uses the IPCC inventory method to calculate carbon emissions in the production phase of the power industry in Gansu Province from 2000–2019, followed by the ridge regression method and the STIRPAT model to analyse the quantitative impact of six major drivers on carbon emissions, and finally, the scenario analysis method is used to forecast carbon emissions in this phase. The results show that the carbon emissions of Gansu Province show a trend of rising and then falling, and reached a peak of 65.66 million tons in 2013. For every 1% increase in population effect, urbanisation level, affluence, clean energy generation share, technology level and industrial structure, carbon emissions will grow by 4.939%, 0.625%, 0.224%, -0.259%, 0.063% and 0.022% respectively. Because of the clean energy advantage in Gansu Province, the low-carbon development scenario will continue to have low carbon emissions during the scenario cycle, which can be reduced to 53.454 million tons in 2030; the baseline scenario will achieve a carbon peak in 2025, with a peak of 62.627 million tons; the economic development scenario has not achieved carbon peak during the scenario cycle, and carbon emissions will increase to 73.223 million tons in 2030.
Response of coral reef sand foundation densified through dynamic compaction method
Authors: Wang Zhen , GU Linlin , WANG Xiao , YANG Weihao , QIU Yanyu , WANG Jianping
Published: December 2023

As an effective ground reinforcement method, the dynamic compaction (DC) technique is widely applied for various soils and geotechnical conditions; however, its application in the regions with thick coral reef sand (CRS) is limited. This study presents a DC method for strengthening coral reef foundations in the reclamation area of the South China Sea. Pilot tests were performed to obtain the crucial design parameters before official DC operation. The field tests included a deformation test, standard penetration test (SPT), and shallow plate load test in two different improvement zones (A1 and A2) with different tamping energies. During the deformation test, the crater depth in three diverse passes (two-pass point tamping and one-pass full tamping) was observed in these two specific areas. The SPT and shallow plate load tests were carried out to estimate the final effect of DC. The allowable ground bearing capacity at the two disparate field sites was at least 360 kPa. The reinforcement depths were 3.5 and 3.2 m in the A1 and A2 zones, respectively. The DC process was numerically analyzed by the particle flow discrete element code, PFC2D. The computational results indicated that the reinforcement effect and effective reinforcement depth were consistent with the field data. During the DC process, the coral sand particles at the bottom of the crater were primarily broken down in the initial stage, and the particle-crushing zone gradually developed toward both sides of the tamping crater. The force chain developed similarly at the three different tamping energies (800, 1500, and 2000 KJ), and the impact stress wave propagated along the sand particles primarily in the vertical direction. This study provides relevant insights into the DC mechanism involving CRS as foundation for structures.
Video mirror feedback induces more extensive brain activation compared to the mirror box: an fNIRS study in healthy adults
Authors: Bonnal Julien , Ozsancak Canan , Prieur Fabrice , Auzou Pascal
Published: December 2023

BackgroundMirror therapy (MT) has been shown to be effective for motor recovery of the upper limb after a stroke. The cerebral mechanisms of mirror therapy involve the precuneus, premotor cortex and primary motor cortex. Activation of the precuneus could be a marker of this effectiveness. MT has some limitations and video therapy (VT) tools are being developed to optimise MT. While the clinical superiority of these new tools remains to be demonstrated, comparing the cerebral mechanisms of these different modalities will provide a better understanding of the related neuroplasticity mechanisms.MethodsThirty-three right-handed healthy individuals were included in this study. Participants were equipped with a near-infrared spectroscopy headset covering the precuneus, the premotor cortex and the primary motor cortex of each hemisphere. Each participant performed 3 tasks: a MT task (right hand movement and left visual feedback), a VT task (left visual feedback only) and a control task (right hand movement only). Perception of illusion was rated for MT and VT by asking participants to rate the intensity using a visual analogue scale. The aim of this study was to compare brain activation during MT and VT. We also evaluated the correlation between the precuneus activation and the illusion quality of the visual mirrored feedback.ResultsWe found a greater activation of both precunei during VT than during MT. We also showed that activation of primary motor cortex and premotor cortex contralateral to visual feedback was more extensive in VT than in MT. Illusion perception was not correlated with precuneus activation.ConclusionVT led to greater activation of a parieto-frontal network than MT. This could result from a greater focus on visual feedback and a reduction in interhemispheric inhibition in VT because of the absence of an associated motor task. These results suggest that VT could promote neuroplasticity mechanisms in people with brain lesions more efficiently than MT.Clinical trial registration:NCT04738851
On the Origins of Mass
Authors: Szweizer Moshe , Schlagbaum Rivka
Published: December 2023

Probability, as manifested through entropy, is presented in this study as one of the most fundamental components of physical reality. It is demonstrated that the quantization of probability allows for the introduction of the mass phenomenon. In simple terms, gaps in probability impose resistance to change in movement, which observers experience as inertial mass. The model presented in the paper builds on two probability fields that are allowed to interact. The resultant probability distribution is quantized, producing discrete probability levels. Finally, a formula is developed that correlates the gaps in probability levels with physical mass. The model allows for the estimation of quark masses. The masses of the proton and neutron are arrived at with an error of under 0.04%. The masses of sigma baryons are calculated with an error between 0.4% and 0.005%. The W boson mass is calculated with an error of under 0.5\%. The model explains why proton is stable while other baryons are not, and it gives an explanation of the origins and nature of dark matter. Throughout the text, the article illustrates that the approach required to describe the nature of mass is incompatible with the mathematical framework needed to explain other physical phenomena.
MSC Classification: 65C20 , 81P05 , 81P16 , 81Q50 , 37D45
Treatment and Survival for Patients with Localized Primary Ocular Adnexal Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma
Authors: Qi Shu-Nan , Gao Lin-rui , Li Xin , Wang Xinyue , Liang Yuanzheng , Wu Yunpeng , Feng Xiaoli , Rao Wei , Liu Xin , Song Yong-Wen , Fang Hui , Chen Bo , Jin Jing , Liu Yue-Ping , Jing Hao , Tang Yuan , Lu Ning-Ning , Wang Shu-Lian , Li Ye-Xiong , Wang Liang
Published: December 2023

Despite the favorable prognosis of primary ocular adnexal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (POAML), the impact of baseline characteristics and various treatment approaches on the disease outcome and toxicities remains unclear. In this cohort, 262 patients with Ann-Arbor stage IE POAML were grouped by first-line treatment: observation (n = 81), surgery (n = 70), systemic treatment (chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy [CT/IT], n = 29), or radiotherapy (RT, n = 82). With a median follow-up period of 66 months, five-year overall survival (OS), lymphoma-specific mortality, and non-lymphoma-specific mortality rates were 96.8%, 0.4%, and 2.3%, respectively. Standardized mortality ratio (SMR) was 1.02 (P = 0.963). OS, relative survival, and SMR were similar across the treatment groups; however, the risk of failure was significantly lower with RT (11.0%, P = 0.006) than with observation (33.3%), surgery (28.6%), and CT/IT (24.1%). The patient-reported Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire showed that RT with a definitive dose caused a slightly higher incidence of dry eye. In conclusion, patients with localized POAML exhibit very favorable survival outcomes regardless of the treatment. Radical RT may be associated with a lower rate of failure and minor ocular adverse effects.
Annual trends in atypical haemolytic uremic syndrome management in Japan and factors influencing early diagnosis and treatment: A retrospective study
Authors: TATEMATSU YOSHITAKA , Imaizumi Takahiro , Michihata Nobuaki , Kato Noritoshi , Kumazawa Ryosuke , Matsui Hiroki , Fushimi Kiyohide , Yasunaga Hideo , Maruyama Shoichi
Published: December 2023

Atypical haemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare disorder characterised by complement-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). Despite existing clinical guidelines, early diagnosis and treatment of aHUS remain challenging. This study examined the annual trends in aHUS clinical practices in Japan and explored factors influencing early diagnosis and treatment. Using data from the 2011–2020 Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, a total of 3,096 cases with the HUS disease code were identified. Among them, 217 were confirmed as aHUS cases and received treatment with eculizumab or plasma exchange. Early initiation, defined as starting eculizumab or Plasma exchange within seven days of admission, was the focus of the study. The research revealed that over time, there were no significant changes in the number of aHUS diagnoses, cases treated with eculizumab, or early initiation cases. Compared to late initiation cases, early initiation cases underwent haemodialysis and had ADAMTS13 activity measured earlier, had shorter hospital stays, and lower hospitalization costs. In conclusion, this study did not find an increase in the number of newly diagnosed aHUS cases or early treatment initiation over time. Timely recognition of TMA, especially through the prompt measurement of ADAMTS13 activity, is crucial for identifying potential aHUS cases and initiating treatment promptly.
Prevalence of dyslipidemia and its correlates in first-episode drug-naive major depressive disorder patients with comorbid anxiety symptoms: a large-scale cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhou Hongying , Zhou Ni , Yuan Ze , Zhang Xiangyang
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND: Studies before this have found that individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) often experience issues with dyslipidemia. Also, people with MDD suffer from anxiety symptoms. However, few studies have looked into what factors contribute to dyslipidemia in individuals with both MDD and anxiety symptoms. Therefore, our study aimed to understand how common dyslipidemia is and what factors might be connected to it in individuals experiencing their first-episode drug-naive (FEDN) MDD with anxiety symptoms (MDDA).
METHODS: A cumulative sample size of 1718 FEDN MDD patients was recruited. The Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) positive subscale were the measures for the assessment of patients' mental states. Several metabolic panels were collected, including total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and thyroid hormone levels.
RESULTS: The reported incidence of dyslipidemia in MDDA patients was 91.67%, which was significantly above that of MDD patients who did not suffer from anxiety symptoms (85.47%). In comparison with MDDA patients without dyslipidemia, those patients with dyslipidemia had higher body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), they also had increased levels on the HAMD, HAMA, and PANSS positive subscale. Additionally, greater levels of TC, HDL-C, TG, LDL-C, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and fasting blood glucose (FBG) were found. Furthermore, the combination of HAMD, TSH, SBP and DBP distinguished MDDA patients with dyslipidemia from those without dyslipidemia.
CONCLUSION: Our results suggested an increased incidence of dyslipidemia among MDDA patients. Various blood indicators and hormone levels were independently associated with dyslipidemia in MDDA patients. Furthermore, the combination of these factors may differentiate between MDDA patients with and without dyslipidemia.
Measuring the flight trajectory and speed of a free-flying moth on the basis of noise-reduced 3D point-cloud time series
Authors: Nishisue Koji , Sugiura Ryo , Nakano Ryo , Shibuya Kazuki , Fukuda Shinji
Published: December 2023

Pest management is essential in crop production; however, frequent application of chemical pesticides that are used as a main tool for pest control causes environmental issues and insecticide resistance in pests. To overcome these issues, laser zapping has been used to control insects such as cockroaches and mosquitoes. In Japan, laser zapping has been studied to physically control cotton leafworm,Spodoptera litura, which is nocturnal, has a high fecundity and some insecticide-resistant populations, and severely damages to a variety of crops. To regulate behaviors of adultS. lituraby laser zapping, its flight trajectory including flight speed must be identified and then predicted precisely under night conditions. Therefore, we aim to establish the automatic detection pipeline for flight trajectory based on point-cloud time series considering the factors reflecting noise data. In this study, the 3D point cloud data were obtained from the recorded disparity images under infrared lights in a low-lux condition. We removed the noise using multiple filters calculating background noise, the size of point cloud, the length of point-cloud time series, and linear SVM (support vector machine) for classifyingS. lituraand noise. To eliminate noisy flight trajectory data, we computed the voxel volume and directional angle of the 3D point-cloud time series, and then visually inspected and removed the noise data. Obtained 68 flight trajectories in total showed that mean flight speed of free-flyingS. liturawas 1.81 m/s and directional angle different between true and noise flight trajectories can be a good indicator for noise detection.
Transcriptome analysis proved that lncRNAs regulate rapeseed seedlings in responding to drought stress by coordinating the phytohormone signal transduction pathways
Authors: Tan Xiaoyu , Long Weihua , Ma Ni , Sang Shifei , Cai Shanya
Published: December 2023

The growth, yield, and seed quality of rapeseed are negatively affected by drought stress. Therefore, it is of great value to understand the molecular mechanism behind this phenomenon. In a previous study, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) were found to play a key role in the response of rapeseed seedlings to drought stress. However, many questions remained unanswered. This study was the first to investigate the expression profile of lncRNAs not only under control and drought treatment, but also under the rehydration treatment. After identifying the differentially expressed (DE) lncRNAs, the comprehensive lncRNAs-engaged network with the co-expressed mRNAs in leaves under control, drought and rehydration was investigated. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of co-expressed mRNAs identified the most significant pathways related with plant hormones (expecially abscisic acid, auxin, cytokinins, and gibberellins) in the signal transduction. The genes, co-expressed with the most-enriched DE-lncRNAs, were considered as the most effective candidates in the water-loss and water-recovery processes, including protein phosphatase 2C (PP2C), ABRE-binding factors (ABFs), and SMALL AUXIN UP-REGULATED RNAs (SAURs). In summary, these analyses clearly demonstrated that DE-lncRNAs can act as a regulatory hub in plant-water interaction by controlling phytohormone signaling pathways and provided an alternative way to explore the complex mechanisms of drought tolerance in rapeseed.
Developing a method to rear Varroa destructor in vitro
Authors: Johnson Brynn L. , Prouty Cody , Jack Cameron J. , Stuhl Charles , Ellis James D.
Published: December 2023

Varroa destructor is a significant mite pest of western honey bees (Apis mellifera). Developing a method to rear and maintain populations of V. destructor in vitro would provide year-round access to the mites, allowing scientists to study their biology, behavior, and control more rapidly. In this study, we determined the impact of various rearing parameters on V. destructor survival and reproduction in vitro. This was done by collecting V. destructor from colonies, placing them in gelatin capsules containing honey bee larvae, and manipulating the following conditions experimentally: rearing temperature, colony source of honey bee larva, behavioral/developmental stages of V. destructor and honey bee larva, and mite:bee larva ratio. Varroa destructor survival was significantly impacted by temperature, colony source of larvae and mite behavioral stage. In addition, V. destructor reproduction was significantly impacted by mite: larva ratio, larval developmental stage, colony source of larva, and temperature. The following conditions optimized mite survival and reproduction in vitro: using a 4:1 mite:larva ratio, beginning the study with late stage uncapped larvae, using mites collected from adult bees, maintaining the rearing temperature at 34.5° C, and screening larval colony source. Ultimately, this research can be used to improve V. destructor in vitro rearing programs.
Use of Low Cost Near-Infrared Spectroscopy, to Predict Pasting Properties of High Quality Cassava Flour
Authors: Abubakar Mikidadi , Wasswa Peter , Masumba Esther , Ongom Patrick , Mkamilo Geoffrey , Kanju Edward , Abincha Wilfred , Edema Richard , Sichalwe Karoline , Tukamuhabwa Phinehas , Kayondo Siraj , Rabbi Ismail , Kulembeka Heneriko
Published: December 2023

Mobile near infrared spectroscopy (SCiO™) can offer quick, in-field phenotyping of cassava roots for pasting properties. However, validation is necessary to verify that reasonable expectations are established for the accuracy of a prediction model. In the context of an ongoing breeding effort, we investigated the use of an inexpensive, portable spectrometer that only records a portion (740–1070 nm) of the whole NIR spectrum to predict cassava pasting properties. Three machine-learning models, namely glmnet, lm, and gbm, implemented in the Caret package in R statistical program, were solely evaluated to approve one or two best models to move on with calibration and optimization. Based on calibration statistics (R2, RMSE and MAE), the best model was identified and further optimized. We found that model calibrations using glmnet provided the best model for breakdown viscosity, peak viscosity and pasting temperature. The glmnet model using the first derivative, peak viscosity had calibration and validation accuracy of R2 = 0.56 and R2 = 0.51 respectively while breakdown had calibration and validation accuracy of R2 = 0.66 and R2 = 0.66 respectively. We also found out that stacking of pre-treatments with Moving Average, Savitzky Golay, First Derivative, Second derivative and Standard Normal variate using glmnet model resulted in calibration and validation accuracy of R2 = 0.65 and R2 = 0.64 respectively for pasting temperature. The developed calibration model predicted the pasting properties of HQCF with sufficient accuracy. Therefore, SCiO™ can be reliably deployed in screening early-generation breeding materials for pasting properties.