bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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.