bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic analysis of albinism caused by compound heterozygous mutation of OCA2 gene in a Chinese family
Authors: Wang Yanan , Chang Yujie , Gao Mingya , Zang Weiwei , Liu Xiaofei
Published: October 2023

Background Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) is a group of rare genetic disorders characterized by a reduced or complete lack of melanin in the skin, hair, and eyes. Patients present with colorless retina, pale pink iris, and pupil, and fear of light. The skin, eyebrows, hair, and other body hair are white or yellowish-white. These conditions are caused by mutations in specific genes necessary for the production of melanin. OCA is divided into eight clinical types (OCA1-8), each with different clinical phenotypes and potential genetic factors. This study aimed to identify the genetic causes of non-syndromic oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) in a Chinese Han family.
Methods We conducted a comprehensive clinical examination of the family members, screened the mutation gene sites using the whole exon sequencing (WES) technology, and verified the sites with Sanger sequencing.
Results The clinical manifestations of the patient were white skin, yellow hair, freckles in the area of exposure, decreased vision, blue iris, the central fovea of the macula being underdeveloped, and the pigmentation of the fundus being insufficient. The WES test results indicate that the patient has a compound heterozygous mutation in the OCA2 gene (c.1258G>A (p.G420R), c.1441G>A (p.A481T), and c.2267-2A>C), respectively, originating from her parents. Among them, c.1258G>A (p.G420R) is a novel variant with extremely high pathogenicity. Our analysis suggests that the compound heterozygous mutation in the OCA2 gene may be the main cause of morbidity in this patient.
Conclusions The widespread application of next-generation sequencing technologies such as WES in clinical practice can effectively replace conventional detection methods and assist in the diagnosis of clinical diseases more quickly and accurately. The newly discovered c.1258G>A (p.G420R) mutation can update and expand the gene mutation spectrum of OCA2-type albinism.
Enhancing supply chain security with automated machine learning
Authors: Wang Haibo , Sagbansua Lutfu , Alidaee Bahram
Published: October 2023

Increasing scale and complexity of global supply chains have led to new challenges spanning a variety of fields such as supply chain disruptions due to long waiting lines at the ports, material shortages, and inflation. Coupled with the size of supply chains and availability of vast amounts of data, efforts towards tackling such challenges have led to an increasing interest towards the application of machine learning methods in many aspects of supply chains. Compared to other solution methods, machine learning methods particularly perform better in making predictions based on a set of observations and approximating optimal solutions faster. Machine learning methods are called for analyzing very large datasets. This paper presents an automated machine learning framework to enhance the supply chain security such as detection of fraudulent activities, prediction of maintenance needs, and material backorder prediction. Results indicate that many factors affect the performance of ML methods such as sampling method, encoding categorical values, feature selection, hyperparameter optimization for different algorithms. In general, the number of variables poses a limit for mathematical programming models to performance on large-scale problem. The automated machine learning framework streamlines the processes including data processing, models construction, hyperparameter optimization and inference deployment. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge on supply chain security by developing an automated machine learning framework to detect fraud and to predict supply chain maintenance needs and material backorder.
Research on the mechanism of supply chain default risk contagion
Authors: Huaqiao SHEN , Jinlong CHEN
Published: October 2023

Absrtact: under the background of macroeconomic fluctuation, this paper discusses the influence of credit default risk contagion of one agent on the second default of another agent in supply chain. The network model of credit risk contagion is established by complex network theory, with the help of mathematical modeling and empirical data, the paper discusses the mechanism of credit risk contagion, which is influenced by the inter-firm relationship, individual risk resistance and the monitoring intensity of market regulator. Furthermore, the paper analyzes the potential heterogeneity of credit default in supply chain network, and reveals the mechanism of the effect of long-term debt on credit default risk in supply chain network. This study is of great theoretical value and practical significance for further analyzing the mechanism of credit risk contagion in supply chain, promoting the sustainable and healthy development of our economy and the formulation of national policies.
Resuscitation, yes or no?The criteria for transferring patients with hematological malignancies to intensive care.A qualitative study
Authors: Bordier Violaine , Filbet Marilene , Sissoix Corinne , Tricou Colombe , Pereira Bruno , Guastella Virginie
Published: October 2023

Background: Having a hematological malignancy increases the risk of a poor-quality end of life and of dying in intensive care. There is no prognostic score to predict survival on admission to intensive care, but many patients die there. To identify the criteria used in deciding to transfer patients with hematological malignancies to intensive care.
Methods : It is a qualitative study. For each patient with a hematological malignancy who died in intensive care, the resuscitator and hematologist involved in the decision to transfer the patient to intensive care were contacted. The study ran at Lyon Sud Hospital Center, between 1 November 2018 and 30 April 2019. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with data triangulation. Seventeen doctors were contacted, and 17 interviews were conducted.
Results: When transferring a patient with a hematological malignancy to intensive care, we identified (i) patient-specific decision criteria for the transfer, namely prognosis of the disease and treatments received, and (ii) decision criteria specific to hematologists and resuscitators, namely difficulty confronting management failure, convenience of transfer to the ICU for hematologists, and attachment of hematologists to their patients.
Conclusion: Organizational convenience of transfer to intensive care was the main criterion for hematologists, but emotional attachment favored futile obstinacy, doing everything possible to the detriment of the patient's comfort. It would be useful to make an upstream appraisal of the impact that an early evaluation of the level of care of patients with hematological malignancies could have on reducing deaths in intensive care.
Relationship between Vitamin D Levels and Pediatric Celiac Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Sun Yanhong , Zhou Qing-xue , Tian Dan-dan , Zhou Jian-ming , Dong Shi-lei
Published: October 2023

Background: The relationship between vitamin D (VitD) levels and pediatric celiac disease (CD) remains controversial. In this study, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to examine the relationship between VitD and pediatric CD.
Methods: We screened relevant studies from PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science published in English from January 1, 2000, to August 1, 2023. The included studies were assessed according to the STROBE checklist. Heterogeneity was quantified by Cochran’s Q test and the I2 statistic. Publication bias was estimated by Begg’s test and Egger test. Meta‐regression was used to detect potential sources of heterogeneity.
Results: A total of 26 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Average 25(OH)D levels, as the main form of VitD, there was significant difference in CD patients and healthy controls (weighted mean difference (WMD) = −5.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [−10.86, − 0.69] nmol/L). Meanwhile, there was significant difference in the incidence of 25(OH)D deficiency between CD patients and healthy controls (odds ratio 2.20, 95% CI= [1.19, 4.08]). Ten articles reported changes in 25(OH)D levels before and after administering a GFD in patients with CD, while the result of this study revealed no change in 25(OH)D levels in CD patients after a gluten-free diet (GFD) compared to controls (WMD = −2.22, 95% CI = [−7.25, 2.81] nmol/L).
Conclusions: VitD levels in pediatric CD patients were lower than healthy controls, and 25(OH)D deficiency was more prevalent in CD patients. We found no change in 25(OH)D levels in CD patients after GFD compared to controls, which inconsistent with previous research. Further well-designed, longitudinal, prospective cohort studies focusing on the role of VitD in the pathogenesis of CD are therefore needed.
The sub 2-hour official marathon is possible: developing a drafting strategy for a historic breakthrough in sports
Authors: Fernandes Guilherme , Gandur Nazir Laureano , Santos Dioser , Maldonado Victor
Published: October 2023

Background Drafting for drag reduction is a tactic commonly employed by elite athletes of various sports. The strategy has been adopted by Kenyan runner Eliud Kipchoge on numerous marathon events in the past, including the 2018 and 2022 editions of the Berlin marathon (where Kipchoge set two official world records), as well as in two special attempts to break the 2-hour mark for the distance, the Nike Breaking2 (2017) and the INEOS 1:59 Challenge (2019), where Kipchoge used an improved drafting formation to finish in 1:59:40, although that is not recognized as an official record.Results In this study, the drag of a realistic model of a male runner is calculated by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for a range of velocities. The formations employed in the past by Kipchoge, as well as alternative formations, are analyzed and systematically compared with respect to mechanical power. In a quest to show that running an official marathon in under 2 hours is possible, the power analysis is extended to the pacers. We developed a simple drafting strategy that Kipchoge could have used to run the 2022 Berlin marathon in a shattering 1 hour, 59 minutes and 57 seconds.Conclusions Elite marathon runners can make better use of the pacers to experience reduced drag in races. The associated energy reduction makes it possible to run faster, finishing the race in less time. Using a better drafting strategy, Kenyan runner Eliud Kipchoge could have finished the 2019 Berlin Marathon in 1:59:57, breaking the two hour barrier for official events.
Defect modes in defective one dimensional parity-time symmetric photonic crystal
Authors: Wang Tiecheng , Niu Yong
Published: October 2023

The introduction of defect layers into one-dimensional parity-time (PT) symmetric photonic crystals gives rise to resonances within the photonic bandgaps. These resonances can be effectively explained by our generalized temporal coupled mode theory. The scattering properties and dispersion relation of defect modes exhibit distinct characteristics compared to conventional one-dimensional Hermitian photonic crystals with defect layers. By tuning the non-Hermiticity or other model parameters, the modulus of the generalized decay rate can be reduced, consequently, the electric field concentrated within the defect layer strengthens. This arises due to the unique band structure of one-dimensional PT-symmetric photonic crystals, which differs significantly from that of traditional one-dimensional Hermitian photonic crystals. Furthermore, the interaction between multiple resonances is investigated through the introduction of multiple defect layers. Our study not only provides insights into resonance phenomena in defective non-Hermitian systems but also contributes to the design of relevant optical resonance devices.
The impact of oncological package implementation on the treatment of rectal cancer in years 2013-2019 in Poland – multicenter study
Authors: Krzeszowiak Jerzy , Pach Radosław , Lorenc Zbigniew , Rutkowski Andrzej , Ochwat Kajetan , Szczepanik Antoni
Published: October 2023

Purpose: In 2015, in Poland, the oncological package (OP) was established. This law constituted a fast track of oncological diagnosis and treatment and obligatory multidisciplinary team meetings (MDT). The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of OP on rectal cancer treatment.
Methods: The study was a multicenter, retrospective analysis of data collected from five centers. It included clinical data of patients operated due to rectal cancer between 2013-2019. For most analyses, patients were categorized into three groups: 2013-2014 – before OP (A), 2015-2016- early development of OP (B), 2017-2019 – further OP functioning (C).
Results: A total of 1418 patients were included. In all time intervals, the majority of operations performed were anterior resections. There was a significantly lower local tumor stage (T) observed in subsequent time intervals, while there were no significant differences for N and M. In period C median of resected nodes was significantly higher than in previous periods. Four of the centers showed an increasing tendency in the use of preoperative radiotherapy. The study indicated a significant increase in the use of short-course radiotherapy (SCRT) and a decrease in the number of patients who did not receive any form of preoperative therapy in subsequent periods. In the group that should receive radiotherapy (T3/4 or N+ and M0), the use of SCRT was also significantly increasing.
Conclusion: In the whole cohort, there was a significant increase in the use of preoperative radiotherapy and decrease in T stage, changing with the development of OP. Nevertheless, this relation is indirect and more data should be gathered for further conclusions.
Trial registration number at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04947020
Date of registration: 24th of June 2021
An NKG2A biased immune response confers protection for infection, autoimmune disease, and cancer
Authors: Heath James , Chen Daniel , Xie Jingyi , Choi Jongchan , Ng Rachel , Zhang Rongyu , Li Sarah , Edmark Rick , Zheng Hong , Solomon Benjamin , Campbell Katie , Medina Egmidio , Ribas Antoni , Khatri Purvesh , Lanier Lewis , Mease Philip , Goldman Jason , Su Yapeng
Published: October 2023

Infection, autoimmunity, and cancer are the principal human health challenges of the 21st century and major contributors to human death and disease. Often regarded as distinct ends of the immunological spectrum, recent studies have hinted there may be more overlap between these diseases than appears. For example, pathogenic inflammation has been demonstrated as conserved between infection and autoimmune settings. T resident memory (TRM) cells have been highlighted as beneficial for infection and cancer. However, these findings are limited by patient number and disease scope; exact immunological factors shared across disease remain elusive. Here, we integrate large-scale deeply clinically and biologically phenotyped human cohorts of 526 patients with infection, 162 with lupus, and 11,180 with cancer. We identify an NKG2A+ immune bias as associative with protection against disease severity, mortality, and autoimmune and post-acute chronic disease. We reveal that NKG2A+ CD8+ T cells correlate with reduced inflammation, increased humoral immunity, and resemble TRM cells. Our results suggest that an NKG2A+ bias is a pan-disease immunological factor of protection and thus supports recent suggestions that there is immunological overlap between infection, autoimmunity, and cancer. Our findings underscore the promotion of an NKG2A+ biased response as a putative therapeutic strategy.
The Value of Long-Duration Energy Storage under Various Grid Conditions in a Zero-Emissions Future
Authors: Staadecker Martin , Szinai Julia , Sánchez-Pérez Pedro A. , Kurtz Sarah , Hidalgo-Gonzalez Patricia
Published: October 2023

Long-duration energy storage (LDES) is a key resource in enabling zero-emissions electricity grids but its role within different types of grids is poorly understood. Using the SWITCH capacity expansion model, we model a zero-emissions Western Interconnect with high geographical resolution to understand the value of LDES under 39 scenarios with different generation mixes, transmission expansion, storage costs, and storage mandates. We find that a) LDES is most valuable in majority wind-powered regions and regions with diminishing hydropower generation, b) seasonal operation of storage becomes cost-effective if storage capital costs fall below 5 $/kWh, and c) mandating the installation of enough LDES to enable year-long storage cycles would reduce electricity prices during times of high demand by over 70%. Our results provide grid planners with guidance on how LDES impacts and is impacted by energy storage mandates, investments in LDES research and development, and generation mix and transmission expansion decisions.
Case Report: Idiopathic Horner's Syndrome in a 5-Year-Old Cat: A TCVM Approach
Authors: YuCheng Louise , Cheng Hanwen
Published: October 2023

Idiopathic Horner's syndrome is a rare condition in felines that presents with characteristic ocular signs. This case report describes the presentation, diagnosis, and management of a 5-year-old, 5.5 kg male cat with idiopathic Horner's syndrome. Initial Western medical assessment revealed mild cholestasis and ear discharge, with inconclusive findings from standard diagnostic tests. TCVM assessment and treatment were initiated, with the patient showing limited improvement. Collaborative re-evaluation from Hanwen Cheng led to a revised TCVM diagnosis and treatment plan, resulting in significant improvement within three days.
From Pelvic Radiation to Social Isolation: A Qualitative Study of Survivors’ Experiences of Chronic Bowel Symptoms after Pelvic Radiotherapy
Authors: Biran Adam , Dobson Christina , Rees Colin , Brooks-Pearson Rachel , Cunliffe Anthony , Durrant Lisa , Hancock John , Ludlow Helen , Neilson Laura , Wilson Ana , Sharp Linda
Published: October 2023

Purpose
We explored survivors’ experiences of chronic bowel symptoms following pelvic radiotherapy, strategies employed in living with these symptoms, effects on daily activities and roles at home and in the workplace.
Methods
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 individuals (ten gynaecological, fourteen prostate, four anal/rectal cancer survivors) who had completed pelvic radiotherapy at least six months prior to data collection and who had experience of bowel symptoms during this post-treatment period. Reflexive thematic analysis was undertaken.
Results
We propose four themes describing a process leading from experience of symptoms to withdrawal from activities and roles. These are: (1) Losing Control (the experience of unintended anal leakage or discharge); (2) Experiencing Embarrassment and Fear (the experience of embarrassment or fear of embarrassment as a result of discharge becoming public); (3) Managing and Reacting (acting to reduce the likelihood of discharge or to prevent this becoming public); and (4) Restriction and Withdrawal (avoiding specific activities or situations so as to reduce or remove the risk of embarrassment). Returning to the workplace presented additional challenges across these themes.
Conclusions
Impacts of chronic bowel symptoms can be severe. Survivors employ a variety of methods and strategies in living with their symptoms. Some of these support continued role fulfilment but some constitute a withdrawal from pre-treatment roles. Current healthcare provision and statutory protections fail to fully meet needs following pelvic radiotherapy.
Implications
There is a need to develop and implement evidence-based services and supported self-management programmes for survivors experiencing chronic bowel problems post-radiotherapy.
Educational stereoscopic representation of a step-by-step brain white fiber dissection according to Klingler's method
Authors: jacquesson timothee , Djarouf Idriss , simon emile , haegelen claire , mertens patrick , picart thiebaud , miranda juan fernandez
Published: October 2023

Background
Understanding and teaching the three-dimensional architecture of the brain remains difficult because of the intricate arrangement of grey nuclei within white matter tracts. Although cortical area functions have been well studied, comprehensive descriptions of the three-dimensional organization of deep nuclei and white matter tracts with an educational goal are still lacking.
Objective
We propose herein a detailed step-by-step dissection of the lateral aspect of a left hemisphere using the Klingler method and provide high-quality stereoscopic views with the aim to help teach medical students or surgeons the three-dimensional anatomy of the brain.
Methods
Three left hemispheres were extracted and prepared. Then, according to the Klingler method, dissections were carried out from the lateral aspect. Photographs were taken at each step and were modified to provide stereoscopic three-dimensional views.
Results
Gray and white structures were described: cortex, claustrum, putamen, pallidum, caudate nucleus, amygdala; U-fibers, external and internal capsules, superior longitudinal fasciculus, frontal aslant fasciculus, uncinate fasciculus, inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, inferior longitudinal fasciculus, corticospinal fasciculus, corona radiata, anterior commissure, and optic radiations.
Conclusion
This educational stereoscopic presentation of an expert dissection of brain white fibers and basal ganglia would be of value for theoretical or hands-on teaching of brain anatomy; labeling and stereoscopy could moreover improve the teaching, understanding, and memorizing of brain anatomy. In addition, this could be also used for the creation of a mental map by neurosurgeons for the preoperative planning of an intracerebral tumor.
Effects of the FHL2 gene on the development of subcutaneous and intramuscular adipocytes in goats
Authors: Li An Li , Wang Youli Wang , Wang Yong Wang , Xiong Yan Xiong , Li Yanyan Li , Liu Wei Liu , Zhu Jiangjiang Zhu , Lin Yaqiu Lin
Published: October 2023

BackgroundAdipose tissue affects not only the meat quality of domestic animals, but also human health. Adipocyte differentiation is regulated by a series of regulatory genes and cyclins. Four and half LIM protein (FHL2) is positively correlated with the hypertrophy of fat cells and can cause symptoms such as obesity and diabetes.ResultIn the transcriptome sequencing analysis of intramuscular adipocytes after three days of differentiation, the differentially expressed geneFHL2was found. To further explore the biological significance of the differentially expressed geneFHL2, which was downregulated in the mature adipocytes. We revealed the function ofFHL2in adipogenesis through the acquisition and loss of function ofFHL2. The results showed that the overexpression ofFHL2significantly increased the expression of adipogenic genes (PPARγ,C/EBPβ) and the differentiation of intramuscular and subcutaneous adipocytes. However, silencingFHL2significantly inhibited adipocyte differentiation. The overexpression ofFHL2increased the number of adipocytes stained with crystal violet and increased the mRNA expression of proliferation marker genes such asCCNE,PCNA,CCNDandCDK2. In addition, it significantly increased the rate of EdU positive cells. In terms of apoptosis, overexpression ofFHL2significantly inhibited the expression ofP53andBAXin both intramuscular and subcutaneous adipocytes, which are involved in cell apoptosis. However, overexpression ofFHL2promoted the expression ofBCL, but was rescued by the silencing ofFHL2.ConclusionsIn conclusion, this study suggests that FHL2 promotes the differentiation, and proliferation and inhibited the apoptosis of both intramuscular and subcutaneous adipocytes. These findings elucidate the function of FHL2 in regulating the development of adipocytes.
Investigation on desiccation crack initiation and development of Tianjin Binhai dredger filling soils with fiber- reinforced
Authors: Li Bin , Li Xuefeng , Zhang Dingyang , Sun Min
Published: October 2023

The increased porosity and permeability caused by cracking can pose a leachate hazard to municipal landfills. This paper describes a procedure for the evaluation of the cracking tendency during drying process on clayey soil. Based on desiccation experiments, it was found possible to estimate the moisture content, fractality and cracking characteristics, and the effect of fibre corporation incorporation on the cracking propagation of cohesive soils collected in dredger filling area in Tianjin. Based on this analysis, the following conclusions may be presented: fibre incorporation does not change the evaporation pattern of dry cracks, but can reduce the critical moisture content of cracking, which is reduced by 22.1% at 0.5% incorporation. The fractility also shows a continuous decreasing trend with the increase of fibre incorporation,which is reduced by 52.9% at 0.5% incorporation compared to the original state. The cracking characteristics were divided into three development stages. The results showed that the critical moisture content of the soil body was significantly reduced (18.8–7.8%) in stage II after fibre addition, and the cracks did not divide the soil body in stage III, which maintained the integrity of the soil body. The cracks had significantly decreased in length and width after fibre incorporation, and the number of cracks increased significantly. It indicates that the cracks cannot form through the cracks after fibre incorporation, and the crack resistance is obviously improved, which reduces the permeability of the soil.
The impact of aggregated demand response to energy communities: Results of a community survey in Spain
Authors: Palomar Esther , Cruz Carlos , Hernandez Marina , Bravo Ignacio
Published: October 2023

This article presents a study which links the technical, awareness, motivation and behavioural factors affecting the adoption of demand response programmes, aggregation and other domestic energy efficiency measures. The aim is to statistically correlate those factors (and variables) to better understand the role of each one of them played in the effectiveness of future design and deployment of energy efficiency and sustainable energy community initiatives. The data for this study was collected from 102 general population responses to an online categorical multiple response survey (https://putdr2test.web.uah.es/) carried out between November 2022 and March 2023. We apply chi-square test of association, contingency tables, and clustering and k-nearest neighbours algorithms to the dataset, amongst other statistical and machine learning methods, paying special attention to the data preprocessing. Despite the lack of strong associations between those variables as revealed by our experimentation, it showcases a number of four patterns in which factors like the consumer motivation dominate the effective participation in RD initiatives and pilots. Three conclusions can be drawn. The technical dimension is not the weakest, resulting in a promising opportunity to raise awareness of the tangible benefits achieved by using more efficient technologies and engaging in new energy initiatives to motivate the change. Moreover, inconsistent, incomplete or imprecise media, market and regulatory messages can lead to a decline in confidence and loss of motivation among consumers, even between the environmentally concerned ones. To that end, we encourage strategies that relate energy efficiency with quality and innovation, not with effort and a loss of comfort, to overcome the barrier of ignorance and reluctance towards change.
Ethno-medicinal uses and cultural importance of stingless bees and their hive products in several ethnic communities of Bhutan
Authors: Gyeltshen Thubten , Bhatta Chet P , Gurung Tulsi , Dorji Pelden , Tenzin Jigme
Published: October 2023

Background: Indigenous and non-indigenous people in wet subtropical and warm temperate areas of Bhutan share an intricate relationship with stingless bees for diverse purposes including ethno-medicinal uses. Stingless bees are deeply associated with social, economic, cultural, and spiritual importance. Bhutan’s cultural practices exhibit a lot of connection to the environment. For instance, stingless bee honey is used routinely to treat the common cold, cough, and sore throat. These resources are usually regarded as a form of traditional knowledge and form an important part of ethnic culture.
Methods: We conducted ethnographic research across the southern, western, and eastern regions of Bhutan. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with stingless beekeepers, and honey collectors from wild and traditional healers to document the ethno-medicinal uses and cultural importance of stingless bees.
Results: We documented 22 different uses of stingless bee honey in food, medicine, veterinary medicine, crafts, beliefs, and religious purposes. We calculated the relative cultural importance (RCI) of stingless bees among the ethnic communities of Bhutan. We found that stingless bees and their hive products are significantly more important to the Hindu culture communities than other ethnic communities in Bhutan. This finding is consistent with the data in other countries and supports the dependence of Hindu culture ethnic communities on natural resources in their everyday life. All participant communities largely exploit these bees through destructive extraction practices. They often find the natural nests in nearby forests, transfer them as a log hive to their backyards, and practice traditional meliponiculture. Therefore, we discuss the future direction of meliponiculture for the sustainable use of these stingless bees in Bhutan.
Conclusion: The ethnic communities of Bhutan use stingless bees for various purposes and the local knowledge is persistent. Many studies on medicinal plants and their uses have been documented in Bhutan, however ethno-biological knowledge on stingless bee and their hive products remain unexplored. Therefore, significant efforts should be made to address the ethno-medicinal, ecological, biological, and industrial perspectives of meliponiculture in Bhutan. This research paper will complement the national inventory of bee resources and traditional knowledge to manage them sustainably in Bhutan.
Experimental transmission of a novel relapsing fever group Borrelia harbored by Ornithodoros octodontus (Ixodida: Argasidae) in Chile
Authors: Santodomingo Adriana , Thomas Richard , Thompson Michele , Robbiano Sofía , Espinoza Pablo , Muñoz-Leal Sebastián
Published: October 2023

Tick-borne relapsing fever spirochetes of genus Borrelia thrive in enzootic cycles involving Ornithodoros spp. (Argasidae) mainly, and rodents. The isolation of these spirochetes usually involves a murine model in which ticks are feed and the spirochetes detected in blood several days later. Such an experiment also demonstrates that a given species of tick is competent in the transmission of the bacteria. Here, soft ticks Ornithodoros octodontus were collected in Northern Chile with the objective to experimentally demonstrate its capacity to transmit a Borrelia sp. detected in a previous study. Two guienea pigs (Cavia porcellus) were used to feed nymphs and adults of O. octodontus and the spirochetes in blood were inspected by dark-field microscopy and nested PCR. Although spirochetes were not seen in blood, DNA was detected in only one animal 11 days after ticks were fed. Genetic sequences of Borrelia flaB, clpX, pepX, recG, rplB, and uvrA genes retrieved from DNA extraction of positive blood were employed to construct two phylogenetic analyses. On the one hand, the flaB tree showed the Borrelia sp. transmitted by O. octodontus clustering with Borrelia sp. Alcohuaz, which was previously detected in that same tick species. On the other hand, concatenated clpX-pepX-recG-rplB-uvrA demonstrated that the characterized spirochete branches together with “Candidatus Borrelia caatinga”, a recently discovered species from Brazil. Based on the genetic profile presented in this study, the name “Candidatus Borrelia octodonta” is proposed for the species transmitted by O. octodontus. The fact that spirochete was not observed in blood of guinea pigs, may reflect the occurrence of low spirochetemia, which could be explained because the succeptibilitysusceptibility of infection vary depending on the rodent species that is used in experimental models. Although the vertebrate reservoir of “Ca. Borrelia octodonta” is still unknown, Octodon degus, a rodent species that is commonly parasitized by O. octodontus, should be a future target to elucidate this issue.
Contrasting regulating effects of soil available nitrogen, carbon, and critical functional genes on soil N 2 O emissions between two rice-based rotations
Authors: Xu Peng , Jiang Mengdie , Khan Imran , Zhou Minghua , Shaaban Muhammad , Hu Ronggui
Published: October 2023

Aims Although the effects of upland and flooded rice cultivation on soil N2O emissions have been reported, scholars have not comparatively investigated the mechanism underlying N2O emissions during the rice cultivation seasons of rice-based rotation systems.
Methods Herein, a two-year field experiment including two rice cultivation modes, namely, conventional upland rice–rapeseed (UR-CC) and flooded rice–rapeseed (RR-CC) rotations, was conducted to determine the effect of different rice plantation models on soil N2O emissions. Non-rice treatments (UR-NC and RR-NC) during the rice season were also implemented to confirm the effect of rice plantation or soil condition on N2O emissions.
Results Seasonal N2O emissions were higher in UR-CC rotation than in RR-CC rotation (1.54 ± 0.16 vs. 0.71 ± 0.20 and 2.57 ± 0.28 vs. 0.76 ± 0.04 kg N ha-1 for the first and following rice cultivation seasons, respectively). Also, N2O emissions were higher in UR-NC treatment than that in RR-NC treatment during both rice seasons (2.45 ± 0.07 vs. 1.43 ± 0.35 and 3.74 ± 0.37 vs. 1.16 ± 0.08 kg N ha-1, respectively). The yield-based N2O emissions were higher in the UR model than in the RR model (0.21 ± 0.01 vs. 0.10 ± 0.02 and 0.34 ± 0.03 vs. 0.11 ± 0.01, respectively). The responses of N2O emission fluxes to soil ammonium (NH4+) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in UR rotation were stronger than those in RR rotation. Furthermore, total N2O emissions from non-rice treatments were higher than those from rice-cultivated treatments for both rice-based rotations. The increase in N2O emissions in UR-NC treatment could be attributed to the higher abundance of amoA gene and elevated soil mineral nitrogen content compared to UR-CC treatment. The higher amount of N2O generated in RR-NC treatment than that in RR-CC treatment was ascribed to the increased abundance of the nirS gene and the decreased abundance of the nosZ gene. The structural equation model supported that soil moisture, temperature, available C and N, and ammonium oxidation-related functional genes explained more than 70% of the effect on soil N2O emissions in UR rotation. Meanwhile, soil moisture, temperature, available N, and denitrification-related functional genes explained 80% of the effect in RR rotation.
Conclusions These findings highlight the importance of rice plantation and their contribution to decreased field N2O emission, and suggest that soil available C, N, and critical functional genes should be considered when investigating N2O mitigation pathways during rice cultivation seasons.
Bound-state energy spectrum and thermochemical functions of the deformed Schiöberg oscillator
Authors: Ahmed A. D. , Eyube E. S. , Omugbe E. , Onate C. A. , Timtere P.
Published: October 2023

In this study, a diatomic molecule interacting potential such as the deformed Schiöberg oscillator (DSO) have been applied to diatomic systems. By solving the Schrödinger equation in the with the DSO, analytical equations for the energy eigenvalues, molar entropy, molar enthalpy, molar Gibbs free energy and constant pressure molar heat capacity were obtained. The obtained equations were used to analyze the physical properties of diatomic molecules. With the aid of the DSO, the percentage average absolute deviation (PAAD) of computed data from the experimental data of the 7Li2 (2 3Πg), NaBr (X 1Σ+), KBr (X 1Σ+) and KRb (B 1Π) molecules are 1.3319%, 0.2108%, 0.2359% and 0.8841%, respectively. The PAAD values obtained by employing the equations of molar entropy, scaled molar enthalpy, scaled molar Gibbs free energy and isobaric molar heat capacity are 1.2919%, 1.5639%, 1.5957% and 2.4041%, respectively, from the experimental data of the KBr (X 1Σ+) molecule. The results of the energy spectra and thermodynamic properties are in good agreement with literature and available experimental data on diatomic molecules.
RECOVARI – Postoperative massage in colorectal cancer patients: a randomized controlled, three-arm parallel group trial
Authors: Werthmann Paul G. , Cysarz Dirk , Jungbluth Melanie , Lederer Ann-Kathrin , Nenova Gergana , Huber Roman , Dijk Monique van , Kienle Gunver S.
Published: October 2023

Purpose:
This study aimed to investigate the impact of Rhythmical Embrocation (RE), a massage technique, on postoperative stress levels of colorectal cancer surgery patients compared to empathic conversation.
Methods:
The study included 68 patients who were randomised into three groups: one received RE from professionals, another from students, and the third had empathic conversations. Stress was quantified using heart rate variability before and after the interventions.
Results:
The standard deviation of the heartbeat intervals (SDNN) increased more in the professional RE group 9.12 ms (IQR 3.59-12.3 ms) than in the other groups: student RE group 5.68 ms (-0.66-7.5 ms), empathic conversation group 6.64 ms (-1.49-7.38 ms); hence stress decreased more in the professional RE group, although not statistically significant (p= 0.21). Other factors like sleep quality, nausea, pain, and mood did not differ significantly between the groups. No complications were associated with the interventions.
Conclusion:
he study had limitations, including a small sample size, high patient variability, and imbalances between groups. Patients also received effective treatments for pain, sleep, and nausea, potentially affecting the results. The study suggests that future research on RE should focus on a more narrowly defined patient population, increase the sample size, and choose a clinical context with fewer confounding factors to obtain more meaningful results.
Trial registration:
The trial has been registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) under the ID DRKS00023407 on 2nd November 2020. The trial was approved by the ethics committee of the University Medical Center Freiburg under the number 356/20 on 20th October 2020.
An adenosine derivative promotes mitochondrial supercomplexes reorganization and restoration of mitochondria structure and bioenergetics in a DEN-induced hepatocellular carcinoma model
Authors: Molina-Pelayo Francisco A. , García-Carrillo Rosendo , Zarate-Lopez David , Cabrera-Aguilar Alejandro , Ortega-Domínguez Bibiana , Domínguez-López Mariana , Chiquete-Félix Natalia , Dagnino-Acosta Adan , Velasco-Loyden Gabriela , Chávez Enrique , Castro-Sánchez Luis , de Sánchez Victoria Chagoya
Published: October 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has become highly relevant in oncology research because of its high mortality rate and difficult diagnosis and treatment. Most chronic liver diseases, including HCC, are characterized by bioenergetics impairment associated with dysfunctional mitochondria. However, no data are available about the relationship between mitochondrial supercomplexes formation and ATP production rates in HCC. Our group has developed an adenosine derivative, IFC-305, which improves mitochondrial function, and it has been proposed as a therapeutic candidate for liver diseases, including HCC. Therefore, we aimed to determine the role of IFC-305 on both mitochondrial structure and bioenergetics in a sequential cirrhosis-HCC model. Our results showed that IFC-305 administration in DEN-induced HCC in rats decreased the number and size of liver tumors, reduced the expression of tumoral markers from hepatic tissue and AFP serum levels, and reestablished the typical architecture of the liver parenchyma. Additionally, the livers of treated rats showed a reduction of mitochondria number, recovery of the mtDNA/nDNA ratio, and mitochondrial length compared to untreated HCC condition. Also, IFC-305 increased cardiolipin and phosphatidylcholine levels and promoted the reorganization of high molecular weight mitochondrial supercomplexes (hmwSC) (V2, I + III2 + IV, I + III2 + IV2, and I + III2 + IV3). Furthermore, the expression levels of hmwSC assembly-related genes were correlated with changes in the mitochondrial structure. Additionally, administration of IFC-305 in HCC modified the expression of several genes encoding elements of complexes I, II, III, IV, and V and increased the ATP levels by recovering the complex I, III, and V activity. We propose that IFC-305 restores the mitochondrial bioenergetics in HCC by normalizing the quantity, morphology, and function of mitochondria, possibly as part of its hepatoprotective mechanism of action.
Measurement of a tunable metamaterial based on Polymeric Methyl Methacrylate and its application in smart packaging temperature detection
Authors: Wu Chengliang , Su Nanguang , Huang Ge
Published: October 2023

Electromagnetic metamaterials/metasurfaces have been widely concerned by researchers because of their rich resonance properties. Metamaterial absorbers with single resonance mode and narrow bandwidth are often used in sensing fields. However, the development of such metamaterial absorbers by optimizing the dielectric layer structure has not received much attention. In this paper, a metamaterial absorber containing dielectric layers of the same thickness (PMMA and STO dielectric layers) are proposed and confirmed. At room temperature, an individual absorption peak is excited, and the single resonance mode and narrow bandwidth characteristic is obtained (resonant frequency is 266.14THz, peak value is 0.902, the FWHM is 1.1THz). The amplitude and resonance frequency of the metamaterial sample can be controlled by changing the thickness of PMMA or STO dielectric layers. An equivalent LC resonant circuit is constructed and used to interpret the relationship between the resonant frequency and the thickness of the dielectric layer. In further experimental measurements, the metamaterial sample was placed in an environment with a gradual change in temperature. Two metamaterial units with the same dielectric layer structure strategy are also proposed and simulated, and similar resonance behaviors can also be excited by these two new metamaterial units. The results show that the absorptive properties of the metamaterial sample show remarkable repeatability in the process of temperature increase and temperature decrease. Therefore, based on the properties of single resonance mode, narrow bandwidth, and reversibility, the metamaterial sample has the potential to be used in smart packaging sensing.
Analysis the relationship of refractory gout between potential biomarkers and diet structure and lifestyle based on 1 H-NMR
Authors: Liang Weidong , Chen Liuting , Cheng Xiangcong , Peng Jianhong , Ye Xueying
Published: October 2023

Objective: We investigated the different between diet structure and life and exercise patterns of 100 patients with refractory gout and 79 healthy volunteers; of these, we selected 39 patients and 20 healthy volunteers for serum 1H-NMR metabolic network detection. We determined the potential biomarkers of refractory gout and attempted to explore the relation between potential biomarkers and diet structure and exercise patterns.
Methods: The present study employed a questionnaire survey to analyze 100 cases of refractory gout patients and 79 healthy volunteers with respect to their diet structure and the lifestyle. Accordingly, we used 1H-NMR metabolic technology to analyze the metabolites present in the serum samples obtained from 39 patients of refractory gout (group B) and 20 healthy subjects (group A). NMR results were further combined with pattern recognition and multivariate statistics, and potential biomarkers were searched. The results were further combined with creatinine, adiponectin, and so on the correlation between the above results were analyzed.
Results: Our results revealed that patients with gout tended to be obese, and there were differences in their lifestyle with exercise, sleep, and smoking, as well as in their preference for fructose drinks, alcohol, and total and structural distribution of meat, milk, eggs, and so on when compared with the healthy volunteers. Importantly, we found the adiponectin in the gout group was lower as compared to the healthy group. Further, metabolomics in combination with KEGG analysis revealed that the biosynthesis of aminoacyl tRNA, biosynthesis of valine, leucine, and isoleucine, metabolism of alanine, aspartic, and glutamate, metabolism of glycine, serine, and threonine, phenylalanine, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, ketone body synthesis and degradation, metabolism of D‐glutamine, citric acid cycle (TCA cycle), triglyceride metabolism, and others could be used as specific biomarkers of this disease.
Conclusion: Recurrent refractory gout and formation of tophus may be related to the diet structure and lifestyle between the patients and the healthy people, and their abnormal metabolic network may be related to the disorder of mitochondrial energy metabolism, which further results in abnormal metabolism of glucose, lipids, amino acids, and deposition of uric acid in joints, peripheral connective tissue, and kidney, inducing an inflammatory response.
GIS-based Modeling of Nyiragongo’s Lava Flow Inundation Probability And Mazuku : A Spatial Environment for a Successful Evacuation Plan for Goma City
Authors: MUHAMBYA KATYA , CHAUBEY NIRBHAY K. , KASEREKA SELAIN K. , MULONDO KAYITOGHERA G.
Published: October 2023

The densely populated city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo is highly vulnerable to volcanic hazards from the Nyiragongo volcano. However, these threats are not taken into account in land use and urban planning. In fact, a contingency plan for evacuating people in the event of a volcanic disaster cannot be successful if the evacuation environment is not known and properly simulated, as it may change over time.
Based on the Mazuku distribution map and lava flow inundation probabilities, this study aimed to suggest the possible evacuation scenarios from the drown up models. The Q-LavHA tools were used to simulate the lava flow from 8 selected vents on the flank of Nyiragongo towards the city of Goma, using data from past eruptions in 1977, 2002 and 2022. Thus, based on certain volcanic hazard criteria related to the dataset analysis, the exposure to hazards was assessed.
The result shows that more than half of the city of Goma is highly exposed to the volcanic hazards of Nyiragongo. Unfortunately, this is also where the majority of the population, the commercial centre and the main public and private institutions are located.
Therefore, taking into account the level of exposure to mazuku and lava flows, a spatial evacuation environment that could support a successful evacuation was proposed. This environment is essential for an ongoing study on a spatially explicit agent-based simulation related to the evacuation of people.