bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Closing the loop’: re-audit of the diagnosis and management of vitamin B12 deficiency in general practice
Authors: O’Donnell O. , MacCarthy J.
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in Ireland, The Irish Longitudinal Study on Aging (TILDA) survey indicates 12% of over 50s in Ireland are low or deficient. The condition is commonly managed exclusively in general practice.

Aim

The intention of this audit was to establish whether B12 deficiency is diagnosed correctly and whether there was over-treatment of patients.

Methods

The audit was conducted in an urban general practice in midwest Ireland. The primary limitation was the low number of patients. Thirty-five patients were included after practice database searches. An initial audit was performed which compared with the standard, Royal University of Bath: ‘Guidelines for the Investigation & Management of B12 deficiency’.

Results

The recommendations from this audit were to complete follow-on investigations and to switch over patients from IM to oral replacement. Twenty-one patients were then recalled, and investigations were performed. Ten patients were then switched from IM replacement to oral therapy. A re-audit was then completed. The re-audit showed marked improvement in compliance, from 17% (n = 6) to 83% (n = 29). The reduction in patients on IM therapy will decrease practice burden, with an annual reduction of nurse consultations by 46, representing a 30% decrease in nurse consultations for IM vitamin B12. This equates to an annual cost reduction of €1,340.

Conclusion

This closed loop audit demonstrated that there was over treatment and under investigation of patients with B12 deficiency in general practice and that auditing of this process could both reduce risk for patients and save money and time.
Green synthesis of (CS/OLE) AgNPs and evaluation of their physico-chemical characteristic
Authors: Sarhan Afaf Sarhan , Abdel-Hamid Maysa I. , Hanie Rehab
Published: July 2022

The present article involves the bio-synthesis of (Chitosan/olive leaf extract) silver nanoparticles (CS/OLE) AgNPs using a simple green electrochemical procedure followed by UV-irradiation time. The properties and structure of the resulting (CS/OLE) AgNPs were characterized by employing several analytical techniques including, Infrared spectrum (FT-IR), UV–VIS spectroscopy, X-ray analysis (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) and degredation. Besides, the studying of the thermal characteristics of the (CS/OLE) AgNPs electrets were also investigated. Formation of Ag nanoparticles was observed upon varying the solution color from faint yellow into yellowish brown and was achieved by the appearance of absorption peak at about ~ 410 nm of the resulting AgNPs corresponding to the surface plasmon resonance (SPR). The sharp peaks appear at 32.16°, 46.19°, 54.75°, 57.59°, and 76.7°, indicating the presence of AgNPs as shown from XRD. With comparing the anti-bacterial efficiency of (CS/OLE) AgNPs and (CS/OLE) we found that the AgNPs display a relatively high anti-bacterial activity than in plant extract and chitosan alone. The electrical properties of (CS/OLE) AgNPs films were studied by global thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC) spectra for explaining the relaxation phenomena of the samples. In addition, the molecular parameters (The activation energy Ea and pre-exponential time τo), have been evaluated by the Arrhenius equation. The Ea was found in ~ (0.39–0.62 eV) for (CS/OLE).
Immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated new-onset primary adrenal insufficiency: a retrospective analysis using the FAERS
Authors: Lu D. , Yao J. , Yuan G. , Gao Y. , Zhang J. , Guo X.
Published: July 2022

Background

Our study aimed to investigate the prevalence and demographic characteristics of immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated primary adrenal insufficiency (ICI-PAI) and to explore the risk factors of its clinical outcome using data from the US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).

Methods

This was a retrospective study. All cases of new-onset or newly diagnosed primary adrenal insufficiency associated with FDA-approved ICIs from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2020 were identified and collected using FAERS. Data on age, sex category, body weight of the participating individuals, the reporting year and the prognosis of cases, and other accompanying endocrinopathies related to ICIs, were analysed.

Results

The incidence of ICI-PAI was 1.03% (1180/114121). Of the 1180 cases of PAI, 46 were “confirmed PAI”, and 1134 were “suspected PAI”. Combination therapy with anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 was related to a higher risk of PAI compared with the anti-PD-1-only group (χ2 = 92.88, p < 0.001). Male and elderly individuals showed a higher risk of ICI-PAI (male vs. female, 1.17% vs. 0.94%, χ2 = 12.55, p < 0.001; age < 65 vs. ≥ 65, 1.20 vs. 1.41%, χ2 = 6.89, p = 0.009). The co-occurrence rate of endocrinopathies other than PAI was 24.3%, which showed a higher trend in patients on nivolumab-ipilimumab treatment than in those on PD-1 inhibitors (χ2 = 3.227, p = 0.072). Body weight was negatively associated with the risk of death in the study population [p = 0.033 for the regression model; B = – 0.017, OR 0.984, 95% CI (0.969–0.998), p = 0.029].

Conclusion

ICI-associated PAI is a rare but important irAE. Male and elderly patients have a higher risk of ICI-PAI. Awareness among clinicians is critical when patients with a lower body weight develop PAI, which indicates a higher risk of a poor clinical outcome.
Time-series forecasting of ships maneuvering in waves via dynamic mode decomposition
Authors: Diez Matteo , Serani Andrea , Campana Emilio F. , Stern Frederick
Published: July 2022

A data-driven and equation-free approach is proposed and discussed to forecast responses of ships maneuvering in waves, based on the dynamic mode decomposition (DMD). DMD is a dimensionality-reduction/reduced-order modeling method, which provides a linear finite-dimensional representation of a possibly nonlinear system dynamics by means of a set of modes with associated oscillation frequencies and decay/growth rates. This linear representation is entirely derived from available data and does not require the knowledge of the underlying system equations, which are and remain unknown. Based on the linear representation, DMD allows for short-term future estimates of the system state, which can be used for real-time prediction and control. Here, the objective of the DMD is the analysis and forecast of the trajectories/motions/forces of ships operating in waves, offering a complementary efficient method to equation-based system identification approaches. Results are presented for the course keeping of a free-running naval destroyer (5415M) in irregular stern-quartering waves and for the free-running KRISO Container Ship performing a turning circle in regular waves. Results are overall promising and show how DMD is able to identify the most important modes and forecast the system state with reasonable accuracy upto two wave encounter periods.
Tool wear mechanism, monitoring and remaining useful life (RUL) technology based on big data: a review
Authors: Zhou Yang , Liu Changfu , Yu Xinli , Liu Bo , Quan Yu
Published: July 2022

Tool wear is a key factor affecting many aspects of metal cutting machining, including surface quality, machining efficiency and tool life. As machining continues to evolve towards intelligence, hot spots and trends in tool wear-related research are also changing. However, in the current research on tool wear, there are still no recognized most effective tool wear suppression methods, signals are easily disturbed, low efficiency of signal processing methods and poor model generalization ability, etc. Therefore, a comprehensive summary and outlook of tool wear-related research is urgently needed, on the basis of which it is important to predict the hot spots and trends in tool wear research. In this paper, the current state of research on tool wear is systematically described from three aspects: tool wear mechanism, online monitoring and RUL (remaining useful life) prediction, and the shortcomings of tool wear-related research are pointed out. After an in-depth discussion, this paper also foresees the development trends of tool wear related research: (1) tool wear suppression research based on new technologies; (2) online monitoring and RUL prediction technology based on the fusion of data, features and pattern recognition; (3) intelligent, self-learning and self-regulating intelligent machining equipment that integrates multiple objectives (e.g. tool wear, chatter and remaining bearing life, etc.); (4) based on big data, the application of data-driven algorithms in tool wear mechanism, online monitoring and RUL prediction.
The Tenuous Role of Distress in the Diagnosis of Premature Ejaculation: A Narrative Review
Authors: Rowland David L. , Cooper Stewart E.
Published: July 2022

Background

Unlike the other 2 criteria for diagnosing premature ejaculation (PE), namely lack of ejaculatory control and short ejaculation latency (EL), the role of bother/distress has received only minimal consideration and investigation.

Aim

The specific aim was to determine both why distress is included in the PE diagnosis and whether such inclusion is advantageous to achieving better diagnostic outcomes. To this end, the review explored the historical and theoretical underpinnings of the inclusion of “bother/ distress” in the diagnosis of PE, with reference to the larger role that distress has played in the diagnosis of mental disorders, in an attempt to understand the utility (or lack thereof) of this construct in making a PE diagnosis.

Methods

We reviewed the role of bother/distress across current professional definitions for PE and then expanded this discussion to include the role of distress in other sexual dysfunctions. We then included a brief historical perspective regarding the role that distress has played in the diagnosis of PE. This discussion is followed by a deeper look at 2 nosological systems, namely DSM and ICD, to allow perspective on the inclusion of the bother/distress construct in the diagnosis of mental and behavioral disorders, including the assumptions/arguments put forward to include or exclude bother/distress as an important criterion underlying various professional assumptions.

Outcome

Determination of the value and/or need of including bother/distress as a necessary criterion for the diagnosis of PE.

Results

Based on the research literature, bother/distress does not appear to be as critical for a PE diagnosis as either the lack of ejaculatory control or short EL. It is the weakest of the differences among men with and without PE, and recent evidence suggests that its inclusion is generally redundant with the severity of the 2 other criteria for PE, ejaculatory control and EL.

Clinical Translation

Bother/distress appears to serve little purpose in the diagnosis of PE yet its assessment may be important for the treatment strategy and for assessing treatment effectiveness.

Strengths and Limitations

This review did not provide a critical analysis of the literature regarding the role of bother/distress in PE, but rather focused on its potential value in understanding and diagnosing PE.

Conclusion

Although bother/distress appears to add little to the improvement of accuracy for a PE diagnosis, understanding and assessing the man's or couple's experience of distress has important implications for the treatment strategy and focus, as well as for assessing treatment success.
Trauma Informed Use of Sensate Focus With Survivors of Sexual Trauma
Authors: Weiner L
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Since Masters & Johnson developed Sensate Focus touch in the 1960’s, many clinicians have devised modifications to this foundational technique in order to address client diversity and the range of sexual concerns. Sexual Trauma Survivors who may be over represented in our consultation rooms are some of our most challenging clients. Survivors may present with sexual phobias, avoidance, pain, lack of desire and/or responsiveness. and, too often, are not initially there for themselves. The literature is rich with publications about the potential emotional and sexual after effects of sexual trauma and there are many good self help books on emotional healing. However, very few authors have published detailed suggestions for working with the sexual healing of survivors (Cohn, 2016), and even fewer have published suggestions for the use of mindful and somatic strategies, including Sensate Focus.

Objective

To review the literature on the treatment of survivors of sexual trauma related to sexual trauma and sexual distress/disfunction, particularly related to mindful and somatic interventions.

Methods

The professional and self help literature was reviewed and combined with clinical experience and the input of other professionals with whom I consulted.

Results

There are a few authors who provide some detail about sexual healing through touch or somatic and mindful interventions (Haines, 2007; Maltz, 2002) and some recommended exercises, but no suggestions for the use of the updated Sensate Focus suggestions and sexual trauma survivors was detailed in the literature.

Conclusions

More studies and publications are needed to address the specific needs of patients who have a history of sexual trauma who want to address their sexual dysfunctions.

Disclosure

No
Estetrol, a Natural Estrogen with Selective Tissue activity (NEST)
Authors: Gerard C , Yost M , Oligschläger Y , Sweat M , Foidart JM
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Current contraceptives can pose an increased risk of venous thromboembolism and breast cancer due to their pharmacological profile. Estetrol (E4) is a native estrogen produced by the human fetus during pregnancy, which has a pharmacological profile different from that of other estrogens.

Objective

Additional studies were conducted to better characterize the unique pharmacological and pharmacokinetic profile of E4.

Methods

E4 has been characterized in nonclinical studies, investigated in clinical trials as a component of contraceptives and is being evaluated for treatment of menopausal symptoms.

Results

E4 is quickly absorbed after oral administration and does not exhibit an extensive binding to plasma proteins in contrast to other estrogens. It has a half-life of at least 24h. It is transformed into inactive sulfo- and glucurono-conjugates, primarily excreted in urine. No potentially carcinogenic metabolites have been identified after E4 metabolization. E4 does not significantly affect CYP450 liver enzymes and has minimal impact on hemostatic parameters, plasma levels of lipids and glucose. In cell, human and animal studies, E4 has limited effects on normal and malignant breast tissue. At the cellular level, E4 like other estrogens, binds and activates the nuclear estrogen receptor α (ERα) and recruits the same coregulators, while selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) recruit other coregulators. However, unlike the other estrogens, E4 induces very limited activity on membrane ERα and antagonizes this pathway in the presence of estradiol, thereby uniquely uncoupling nuclear and membrane activation.

Conclusions

Based on its unique structure, pharmacokinetic/dynamic properties and distinctive mode-of-action, E4 is considered a Natural Estrogen with Selective Tissues activity (NEST), with a favorable benefit-to-risk ratio.

Disclosure

Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Estetra SRL (an affiliate company of Mithra Pharmaceuticals, Belgium; Publication support by Mayne Pharma

Clarification

Industry initiated, executed and funded study

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Estetra SRL (an affiliate company of Mithra Pharmaceuticals, Belgium; Publication support by Mayne Pharma
Introducing a Guide in Physical Therapy Addressing Sexual Function in Adults with Neuromuscular Disorders
Authors: Fisette-Paulhus I , Morin M , Fortin J , Girard-Côté L , Gagnon C
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Physical therapists are part of the rehabilitation team following individuals with neuromuscular disorders (NMD). Due to their impairments, people with NMD can have difficulties engaging in sexual activities. One study reported that 70% of people living with chronic disorders present difficulties related to sexuality and only 18% can overcome them by themselves [1].

Objective

The guide has 3 main objectives: 1) To document interventions regarding sexual impairments in people with NMD that can be applied by physical therapists in clinical practice; 2) To propose approaches for addressing sexuality with their clients; 3) To highlight issues that require advanced physical therapy expertise in pelvic floor rehabilitation.

Methods

The guide is based on a review of the literature and the clinical experience of physical therapists with expertise in NMD or sexuality in Canada. It was developed using the “Rare knowledge mining methodological framework” [2]. Two frameworks were also followed: “Essential Competency Profile for Physiotherapists in Canada (2017)” [3] and the “EX-PLISSIT model” [4, 5].

Results

A total of 75 articles retrieved were considered in our review. Twelve physical therapists and four other health professionals were consulted for this guide. It is recommended to introduce the topic of sexuality early in therapy and follow the steps of the EX-PLISSIT model [4, 5] before offering specific suggestions. Physical therapists should address different aspects in their assessment: interpersonal relationships, assistance required or not during sexual activities, urinary, vaginal or anorectal symptoms, erectile dysfunction, pain, fatigue and impact of the disease on sexuality. Some of the impairments or limitations that may be identified during an objective assessment can have an impact on sexual function and it is important to be aware of these issues: strength, grip, dexterity, sensibility, pain, bed mobility, motor control, etc. Interventions are presented in detail in the guide regarding physical activity, positioning, muscle weakness, fatigue, decreased mobility, erectile dysfunction, sensitivity disorders, lubrication, pain, incontinence, and cardio and respiratory implications.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first guide on the role of physical therapists in sexuality. Physical therapists should integrate sexual function into their assessments and interventions. They are an essential part of the rehabilitation team, and they should collaborate with other health professionals to have a multidisciplinary approach, especially in NMD patients. More studies are needed to evaluate the effects of intervention on sexual function in this population.

Disclosure

No
A Multidimensional Evaluation of Intimacy
Authors: Sears M , Crosby C , Freihart B , McMahon L , Meston C
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Intimacy is crucial for developing successful relationships as it strengthens bonds between partners. Intimacy has been hypothesized to comprise four central components: self-disclosure, love and affection, validation, and trust. Despite the importance of intimacy in developing strong relationships, to our knowledge, there is not a widely accepted measure that captures the full spectrum of intimacy. Popular measures like the Miller Social Intimacy Scale (MSIS), the Personal Assessment of Intimacy in Relationships (PAIR), and the Fear of Intimacy Scale (FIS) each address only some facets of this multidimensional construct. As such, the development of a more inclusive relational intimacy scale would benefit both researchers and clinicians and help advance our understanding of this construct.

Objective

The current study had two primary aims: (1) to identify what acts and experiences elicit feelings of intimacy among individuals in order to develop a more nuanced, complete measure for use in future research and clinical practice; and (2) to evaluate how the factor structure of these items compares to pre-existing measures of intimacy.

Methods

In Study 1, participants nominated over 2,700 items that “elicited feelings of intimacy” for them. Examples of nominations included: trust, communication, touch, attraction, and sex. Trained raters condensed duplicate items and created a final list of unique nominations for use in Study 2. Five experts in the field of sex research submitted additional items for consideration in Study 2 based on previous conceptualizations of this construct. Study 2 identified the factor structure of these items and validated the measure.

Results

Data collection for Study 2 is ongoing, but will be completed in January 2021. Results will be updated with an addendum after data analysis.

Conclusions

Discussion will focus on individual differences in the factor structure of intimacy based on gender, age, and relationship duration and status. We will conclude by positioning our new model of intimacy within the existing theoretical framework of this construct, and elucidate how our measure can improve psychological and clinical research.

Disclosure

No
Misrepresentation of Female Sexual Behavior in Pornography
Authors: Dubinskaya A , Dallas K , Scott V , Anger J , Eilber K
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Female sexual wellness is a highly complex condition that builds not only on biological factors, but also on social norms, background, religion, education, and social media. One source where both women and men learn about sexual behavior, interactions, and expectations is pornography. This resource has become widely available to anyone with access to the internet. While pornography is a way of expanding sexual horizons, like any media it may misrepresent more common behaviors and expectations for both genders.

Objective

The purpose of this review is to evaluate how women's sexuality is portrayed in the most commonly viewed pornography videos in order to understand its role in female sexual health.

Methods

Videos from the category “most viewed videos” based on internet ratings were viewed. We analyzed the content and female and male sexual behaviors portrayed.

Results

We reviewed the 25 most viewed videos by the general public from the five most popular free pornography websites. The two most commonly viewed contexts were sexual encounters between step relatives (16%) and during casting sessions (16%). With the majority of videos having two participants (92%), two videos included three and five participants. Overall, only 9 (36%) videos demonstrated at least one female orgasm with 5 (20 %) videos showing clitoral stimulation before reaching orgasm. Only 4 (16%) videos did not demonstrate male orgasm. Similarly, only 8 (32%) videos pictured a female as the recipient of oral sex, whereas all but 3 (12%) videos showed the male as the recipient. Only in one (4%) video did a woman have more than one orgasm. Anal sex was represented in 4 (16%) of videos, with novelty toy uses in one (4%) video.

Conclusions

We found that he most viewed videos on popular pornography sites did not represent the most common real life sexual scenarios and were predominantly male-pleasure centered.Inaccurate portrayal of female sexuality can contribute to sexual performance anxiety, unfulfilled expectations among both partners, and sexual dysfunction. More research is needed to determine the best referral websites and categories for women and their partners, representing more realistic female sexual behavior.

Disclosure

No
Does Partner Matter in Sexual Activity?
Authors: Dubinskaya A , Jackson F , Shoureshi P , Anger J , Scott V , Eilber K
Published: July 2022

Introduction

A woman's sexual activity is a challenging topic to discuss for both provider and patient. Common questions about sexual activity imply that a woman is having partnered sexual activity with vaginal penetration. Discussion about masturbation or solo sexual experiences tend to be even more uncomfortable and considered a societal taboo. Nevertheless, solo sexual activity is an important part of physical and emotional health.

Objective

The aim of this pilot study is to examine the differences in sexual health, pelvic floor health and overall wellness among women with predominantly partnered sexual activity (PSA) compared to solo sexual activity (SSA).

Methods

This is a prospective pilot study of sexually active women with PSA and SSA age 18 to 99 years who presented for consultation to our Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery clinic with a pelvic floor complain between May 2021 and August 2021. Participants were given validated questionnaires for 1) sexual health: Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and The Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire International Urogynecological Association (IUGA) Revised (PISQ-IR); 2) pelvic floor function: The Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory Questionnaire (PFDI), Genitourinary Pain Index (GUPI), Interstitial cystitis/Painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS), and 3) overall health: (Self-reported quality of life (SF-12), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9)). Physical exam and interview on sexual practices were performed. Demographics and health information were recorded. All data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, comparisons were made using Fisher Exact Test and Wilcoxson Rank Sum Tests.

Results

Among 23 women recruited in the pilot study, 13 had PSA and ten women had SSA. Among PSA, six women were also masturbating. Those who were sexually active with a partner were younger (p=0.021), and less likely to have neurologic disorders (p=0.022). No significant differences in demographics, comorbidities, hormonal therapies, pelvic floor disorders, or overall well-being were found between two groups. Women involved in PSA had significantly higher total FSFI score (p=0.035), sexual satisfaction (p=0.012). Interestingly, women with PSA had higher scores on ICSI (p=0.046) and less likely used a vibrator or sex toy ever in their lives (p=0.02).

Conclusions

No significant differences in pelvic health and overall wellness were noted between women with PSA and SSA. Satisfaction from sexual activity is higher among younger women involved in partnered sex, in spite of no significant differences present in desire and orgasm domains. Sexual activity is more than just vaginal penetrative intercourse thus solo sexual practices should be assessed by medical providers especially in older women who might not have available partners.

Disclosure

No
Desire for Solitary Sexual Activity Predicts Discordance Between How Young Women Self-identify and Their Reported Attractions
Authors: Clephane K , Lorenz T
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Introduction: While most clinicians know it is important to tailor sexual healthcare for their sexual minority patients, it can be complicated to assess who identifies with a sexual minority label, as engaging in same-sex behavior or having same-sex attractions does not always lead to an identity as a sexual minority1. Prior work suggests that people who have same-sex attractions or behaviors but identify as heterosexual have different healthcare needs than people who identify as sexual minorities2. Given this, and recent data showing that 1 in 6 young Americans identify with non-heterosexual orientation labels3, it is important to understand what drives discrepancies between young people's attractions and sexual identity label.

Objective

Objective: To determine characteristics that predict discordance between young women's sexual orientation label and reported sexual attractions.

Methods

Methods: 440 young, Midwestern women (age M = 20.6, SD = 1.53) completed a survey battery that assessed their sexual orientation – using both orientation labels and numeric attraction scales – as well as their sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index), sexual desire (Sexual Desire Inventory), sexual sensation seeking (Sexual Sensation Seeking Scale), sexual excitation and inhibition (Sexual Excitation and Inhibition Inventory), and their mental health (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7). The numeric attraction scale scored participant's attractions to men, women, and non-binary people from 0 – 100. To assess concordance, participant's chosen sexual orientation labels were compared to their numeric attraction scores.

Results

Results: Desire for solitary sexual experiences increased the likelihood of participants indicating identity labels that did not match their reported patterns of attraction (effect size = - .044, z = -2.69, p = .007); these results remained significant when controlling the influence of other sexuality measures (sexual function, sexual sensation seeking, sexual excitation and inhibition). Further, neither depression scores nor anxiety scores were related to the likelihood of identity/attraction concordance.

Conclusions

Conclusions: Desire for solitary sex seems to uniquely predict dissonance between one's stated sexual orientation label and experiencing sexual attraction patterns that may be better encapsulated by another label. A sizeable portion of our sample were in relationships with men, which may be a more salient consideration than attraction patterns when choosing an orientation label. If replicated, these findings suggest that assessing sexual desire patterns may help identify patients whose identity/attraction discordance lead to unique sexual health needs.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Good Clean Love
A repentant sinner: representing the self in Nikephoros Ouranos’ catanyctic alphabet
Authors: Cocola Cristina
Published: July 2022

For Byzantines, catanyctic poetry offered a rich source of models for self-representation. In this paper I analyse the poetic strategies and literary motifs through which Nikephoros Ouranos (tenth–eleventh century) shaped the self in his catanyctic alphabet. In particular, I will focus on the intertextual strategies employed by Ouranos in order to model the catanyctic self, such as the identification with scriptural sinners, and the presence of biblical metaphors.
Onset of instabilities in rotating flows by direct numerical simulation
Authors: Liu Ziyao , Ladd Anthony J.C.
Published: July 2022

A rotating disk is the canonical experiment for measuring surface reaction rates in geochemical and electrochemical systems. Using the similarity solution for laminar flow around an infinite disk, the mass transfer coefficient can be simply related to the intrinsic reaction rate at the surface. However, measurements of mass transfer rates use a finite-size disk within a larger container of solution; here the flow is no longer strictly laminar, but there must always be some recirculation. Our interest was initially in the assumption of a uniform radial concentration field, how this breaks down near the perimeter of the disk, and what effect that might have on the measured mass transfer rates. However, our numerical simulations suggest that the flow around a finite-size disk becomes time dependent at Reynolds number (

$Re$

) below 1000, which is much smaller than the typical values in mass-transfer measurements (

${Re} \sim 10^4$

). We observe the formation of coherent structures in the flow, which suggest a non-uniform mass transfer at the disk surface. The rotating-disk flow follows a similar sequence of instabilities to the Taylor–Couette flow: a centrifugal instability leading an axisymmetric, time-invariant flow, followed by a Hopf bifurcation to a time-periodic flow. To minimise the possibility that our results are a numerical artefact, we have also simulated the instability in the stationary boundary layer of a rotor–stator flow, comparing with self-similar solutions at low

${Re}$

and with spectral methods near the critical Reynolds number.
Tracing Water Particles Back in Time
Authors: Sidder Aaron
Published: July 2022

Every summer, a low-oxygen pool settles off Canada’s western coast. A new study uses robust modeling to track the origins of the dense water.
Rita de C�ssia dos Anjos: Never Settle for Things as They Are
Authors: Rodrigues Meghie
Published: July 2022

The award-winning astrophysicist is using her visibility to call attention to inequalities in the Brazilian science community.
NCX1 coupled with TRPC1 to promote gastric cancer via Ca2+/AKT/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Wan Hanxing , Gao Nannan , Lu Wei , Lu Cheng , Chen Jun , Wang Yimin , Dong Hui
Published: July 2022

Plasma membrane Na+/Ca2+ exchanger 1 (NCX1) is a bidirectional ion transporter to operate in Ca2+ entry or exit modes, and TRPC1 is Ca2+-permeable channel. Both NCX1 and TRPC1 play critical roles in maintaining cytosolic free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]cyt) homeostasis in mammalian cells. Although either TRPC1 channel or Ca2+ entry mode of NCX1 is implicated in some tumorigenesis, it has not been explored if a coordination of NCX1 and TRPC1 involves in the pathogenesis of H. pylori-associated human gastric cancer (GC). Here we found the protein expression of NCX1 was significantly enhanced in human GC specimens, which correlated with tumor progression and poor survival in GC patients. TRPC1 and NCX1 were parallelly enhanced, co-localized and bound in human GC cells. By a functional coupling, TRPC1 drives NCX1 to the Ca2+ entry mode, raising [Ca2+]cyt in GC cells. Moreover, CaCl2, H. pylori and their virulence factors all enhanced expressions and activities of NCX1 and TRPC1, and evoked aberrant Ca2+ entry to promote proliferation, migration, and invasion of GC cells through AKT/β-catenin pathway. Tumor growth and metastasis also depended on the enhanced expression of NCX1 in subcutaneously xenografted GC mouse model. Overall, our findings indicate that TRPC1/NCX1 coupling may promote H. pylori-associated GC through the Ca2+/AKT/β-catenin pathway. Since the Ca2+ exit mode and the Ca2+ entry mode of NCX1 play different roles under mostly physiological and pathological conditions respectively, targeting TRPC1/NCX1 coupling could be a novel strategy for selectively blocking Ca2+ entry mode to potentially treat digestive cancer with less side effect.
Perioperative Adriamycin plus ifosfamide vs. gemcitabine plus docetaxel for high-risk soft tissue sarcomas: randomised, phase II/III study JCOG1306
Authors: Tanaka Kazuhiro , Machida Ryunosuke , Kawai Akira , Nakayama Robert , Tsukushi Satoshi , Asanuma Kunihiro , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Hiraga Hiroaki , Hiraoka Koji , Watanuki Munenori , Yonemoto Tsukasa , Abe Satoshi , Katagiri Hirohisa , Nishida Yoshihiro , Nagano Akihito , Suehara Yoshiyuki , Kawashima Hiroyuki , Kawano Masanori , Morii Takeshi , Hatano Hiroshi , Toguchida Junya , Okuma Tomotake , Takeyama Masanobu , Takenaka Satoshi , Akisue Toshihiro , Furuta Taisuke , Emori Makoto , Hiruma Toru , Outani Hidetatsu , Yamamoto Tetsuji , Kataoka Tomoko , Fukuda Haruhiko , Ozaki Toshifumi , Iwamoto Yukihide
Published: July 2022

Background

This randomised phase II/III trial aimed to determine whether perioperative chemotherapy with gemcitabine plus docetaxel (GD) is non-inferior to the standard Adriamycin plus ifosfamide (AI) in terms of overall survival (OS) in patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS).

Methods

Patients with localised high-risk STS in the extremities or trunk were randomised to receive AI or GD. The treatments were repeated for three preoperative and two postoperative courses. The primary endpoint was OS.

Results

Among 143 enrolled patients who received AI (70 patients) compared to GD (73 patients), the estimated 3-year OS was 91.4% for AI and 79.2% for GD (hazard ratio 2.55, 95% confidence interval: 0.80–8.14, P = 0.78), exceeding the prespecified non-inferiority margin in the second interim analysis. The estimated 3-year progression-free survival was 79.1% for AI and 59.1% for GD. The most common Grade 3–4 adverse events in the preoperative period were neutropenia (88.4%), anaemia (49.3%), and febrile neutropenia (36.2%) for AI and neutropenia (79.5%) and febrile neutropenia (17.8%) for GD.

Conclusions

Although GD had relatively mild toxicity, the regimen—as administered in this study—should not be considered a standard treatment of perioperative chemotherapy for high-risk STS in the extremities and trunk.

Clinical trial registration

jRCTs031180003.
Single-cell RNA-seq of primary bone marrow neutrophils from female and male adult mice
Authors: Kim Minhoo , Lu Ryan J. , Benayoun Bérénice A.
Published: July 2022

Widespread sex-dimorphism is observed in the mammalian immune system. Consistently, studies have reported sex differences in the transcriptome of immune cells at the bulk level, including neutrophils. Neutrophils are the most abundant cell type in human blood, and they are key components of the innate immune system as they form a first line of defense against pathogens. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow, and differentiation and maturation produce distinct neutrophil subpopulations. Thus, single-cell resolution studies are crucial to decipher the biological significance of neutrophil heterogeneity. However, since neutrophils are very RNA-poor, single-cell profiling of these cells has been technically challenging. Here, we generated a single-cell RNA-seq dataset of primary neutrophils from adult female and male mouse bone marrow. After stringent quality control, we found that previously characterized neutrophil subpopulations can be detected in both sexes. Additionally, we confirmed that canonical sex-linked markers are differentially expressed between female and male cells across neutrophil subpopulations. This dataset provides a groundwork for comparative studies on the lifelong transcriptional sexual dimorphism of neutrophils.
Synthesis and physicochemical characterization of bovine lactoferrin supersaturated complex with iron (III) ions
Authors: Pryshchepa Oleksandra , Rafińska Katarzyna , Gołębiowski Adrian , Sugajski Mateusz , Sagandykova Gulyaim , Madajski Piotr , Buszewski Bogusław , Pomastowski Paweł
Published: July 2022

The aim of the study was to investigate the process of Fe3+ binding to bLTF. Moreover, the physicochemical characterization of the respective supersaturated complex was studied. The knowledge should be important for the description of processes that may take place in dairy products fortified with iron. Additionally, the synthesized complex can be utilized as a dietary supplement for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Finally, it was shown that formation of supersaturated iron-protein structures which include LTF often accompanies development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer or Parkinson. Thus, the study can reveal some aspects of its pathogenesis process. The methodology of the investigation comprised the utilization of batch sorption study and applying Freundlich and Langmuir models. The complex also was characterized by numerous techniques: spectrometric (ICP-MS), spectroscopic (UV–Vis, ATR-FTIR), electron microscopy (TEM–EDX), SDS-PAGE. Based on obtained results the potential mechanisms of iron interaction with protein were described. Moreover, the molecular docking was applied to visualize possible metal binding sites. The respective complex contains ≈ 33.0 mg/g of iron which is nearly 50 Fe3+ per one protein molecule. The cytotoxicity of the obtained complex was evaluated by MTT reduction and LDH release assays on Caco-2 and nL929 cell lines.
Psilocybin reduces low frequency oscillatory power and neuronal phase-locking in the anterior cingulate cortex of awake rodents
Authors: Golden Caroline T. , Chadderton Paul
Published: July 2022

Psilocybin is a hallucinogenic compound that is showing promise in the ability to treat neurological conditions such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. There have been several investigations into the neural correlates of psilocybin administration using non-invasive methods, however, there has yet to be an invasive study of the mechanism of action in awake rodents. Using multi-unit extracellular recordings, we recorded local field potential and spiking activity from populations of neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex of awake mice during the administration of psilocybin (2 mg/kg). The power of low frequency bands in the local field potential was found to significantly decrease in response to psilocybin administration, whilst gamma band activity trended towards an increase. The population firing rate was found to increase overall, with just under half of individual neurons showing a significant increase. Psilocybin significantly decreased the level of phase modulation of cells with each neural frequency band except high-gamma oscillations, consistent with a desynchronization of cortical populations. Furthermore, bursting behavior was altered in a subset of cells, with both positive and negative changes in the rate of bursting. Neurons that increased their burst firing following psilocybin administration were highly likely to transition from a phase-modulated to a phase unmodulated state. Taken together, psilocybin reduces low frequency oscillatory power, increases overall firing rates and desynchronizes local neural activity. These findings are consistent with dissolution of the default mode network under psilocybin, and may be indicative of disruption of top-down processing in the acute psychedelic state.
Invasive brown treesnakes (Boiga irregularis) move short distances and have small activity areas in a high prey environment
Authors: Boback Scott M. , Nafus Melia G. , Yackel Adams Amy A. , Reed Robert N.
Published: July 2022

Animal movements reflect temporal and spatial availability of resources as well as when, where, and how individuals access such resources. To test these relationships for a predatory reptile, we quantified the effects of prey abundance on the spatial ecology of invasive brown treesnakes (Boiga irregularis) on Guam. Five months after toxicant-mediated suppression of a brown treesnake population, we simultaneously used visual encounter surveys to generate relative rodent abundance and radiotelemetry of snakes to document movements of surviving snakes. After snake suppression, encounter rates for small mammals increased 22-fold and brown treesnakes had smaller mean daily movement distances (24 ± 13 m/day, $$\overline{x }$$

x
¯

± SD) and activity areas (5.47 ± 5 ha) than all previous observations. Additionally, snakes frequenting forest edges, where our small mammal encounters were the highest, had smaller mean daily movement distances and three-dimensional activity volumes compared to those within the forest interior. Collectively, these results suggest that reduced movements by snakes were in part a response to increased prey availability. The impact of prey availability on snake movement may be a management consideration when attempting to control cryptic invasive species using tools that rely on movement of the target species to be effective.
Optical characterization of deuterated silicon-rich nitride waveguides
Authors: Chia Xavier X. , Chen George F. R. , Cao Yanmei , Xing Peng , Gao Hongwei , Ng Doris K. T. , Tan Dawn T. H.
Published: July 2022

Chemical vapor deposition-based growth techniques allow flexible design of complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) compatible materials. Here, we report the deuterated silicon-rich nitride films grown using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The linear and nonlinear properties of the films are characterized, and we experimentally confirm that the silicon-rich nitride films grown with SiD4 eliminates Si–H and N–H related absorption. The performance of identical waveguides for films grown with SiH4 and SiD4 are compared demonstrating a 2 dB/cm improvement in line with that observed in literature. Waveguides fabricated on the SRN:D film are further shown to possess a nonlinear parameter of 95 W−1 m−1, with the film exhibiting a linear and nonlinear refractive index of 2.46 and 9.8 $$\times$$
×
10–18 m2W−1 respectively.
Bimetallic doping engineering of Ni3S2 nanosheets originating from NiFe layered double hydroxide for efficient overall water splitting
Authors: Song Tianshan , Xue Hui , Sun Jing , Guo Niankun , Sun Jiawen , Hao Yi-Ru , Wang Qin
Published: July 2022

Fe, Mo-doped Ni3S2 nanosheets that are derived from NiFe-LDH by structural transformation have been successfully developed.
Evaluating structure–property relationship in a new family of mechanically flexible co-crystals
Authors: Abeysekera Amila M. , Averkiev Boris B. , Sinha Abhijeet S. , Aakeröy Christer B.
Published: July 2022

A new family of mechanically flexible co-crystals is reported. A road-map is presented which can be used as a guide to predict response to mechanical stress in this family of co-crystals.
Harnessing the intrinsic photochemistry of isoxazoles for the development of chemoproteomic crosslinking methods
Authors: Lougee Marshall G. , Pagar Vinayak Vishnu , Kim Hee Jong , Pancoe Samantha X. , Chia W. Kit , Mach Robert H. , Garcia Benjamin A. , Petersson E. James
Published: July 2022

The intrinsic photochemistry of the isoxazole, a common heterocycle in medicinal chemistry, can offer an alternative to existing strategies using more perturbing, extrinsic photo-crosslinkers.
Copper-catalyzed direct decarboxylative fluorosulfonylation of aliphatic carboxylic acids
Authors: Yi Ji-Tao , Zhou Xiang , Chen Qi-Long , Chen Zhi-Da , Lu Gui , Weng Jiang
Published: July 2022

Herein we report two complementary methods for direct decarboxylative fluorosulfonylation of carboxylic acids by the merging of copper catalysis with different N-centered HAT regents.
Expanding the versatility and scope of the oxime ligation: rapid bioconjugation to disulfide-rich peptides
Authors: Hering Anke , Braga Emidio Nayara , Muttenthaler Markus
Published: July 2022

Regiospecific incorporation of a protected aminooxy group into disulfide-rich peptides compatible with oxidative folding. This strategy supports the production of aminooxy precursors for long-term storage and on-demand modifications.
NAPT, an unbiased approach for sequential analysis of the protein N- and C-terminome
Authors: Wang Zhongjie , Yuan Wenjuan , Zhang Lei , Zhang Ying , Lu Haojie
Published: July 2022

After LysargiNase digestion, an adequate switch of pH during SCX fractionation led to the elution of N-terminal peptides, internal peptides and C-terminal peptides in sequence.
Zero area thermal expansion of honeycomb layers via double distortion relaxation in (PPh4)[Cu2(CN)3]
Authors: Iwai Yuudai , Nakaya Manabu , Ohtsu Hiroyoshi , Le Ouay Benjamin , Ohtani Ryo , Ohba Masaaki
Published: July 2022

The zero area TE of cyanide-bridged honeycomb layers occurs by complementary structural changes in the cation and anion counterparts.
Optimisation of 1H PMLG homonuclear decoupling at 60 kHz MAS to enable 15N–1H through-bond heteronuclear correlation solid-state NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Tognetti Jacqueline , Franks W. Trent , Lewandowski Józef R. , Brown Steven P.
Published: July 2022

15N–1H heteronuclear NMR correlation at natural abundance in the solid state via J couplings is enabled by optimisation of phase-modulated Lee–Goldburg (PMLG) 1H homonuclear decoupling during the spin echoes, far from the ideal magic-angle condition.
Using metal substrates to enhance the reactivity of graphene towards Diels–Alder reactions
Authors: Yang Xiaojian , Chen Feiran , Kim Min A. , Liu Haitao , Wolf Lawrence M. , Yan Mingdi
Published: July 2022

The Diels–Alder reaction using both dienes and dienophiles on graphene is shown to be accelerated using metal substrates as determined from experimentally obtained rate constants and supported by DFT calculations.
Thermal enhancing effect of upconversion luminescence in Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped Cs3BiSr(P2O7)2 phosphors
Authors: Cui Hongqiang , Cao Yongze , Zhang Yuhang , Li Lei , Li Guojian , Xu Sai , Wang Yichao , Zhang Jinsu , Chen Baojiu
Published: July 2022

Cs3BiSr(P2O7)2:Er3+/Yb3+ phosphors show excellent upconversion luminescence thermal enhancement performance under 980 nm (a) and 1550 nm (b) laser excitation, respectively.
Construction of a series of Ln-MOF luminescent sensors based on a functional “V” shaped ligand
Authors: Liu Xueguang , Liu Wei , Yang Xiaoshan , Kou Yao , Chen Wanmin , Liu Weisheng
Published: July 2022

It is necessary to decrease the application cost of luminescent Ln-MOF sensors to develop multiple functionalities.