bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Quantum Mechanical/Molecular Mechanical Methods For Studying Energy Transduction in Biomolecular Machines
Authors: Kubař T. , Elstner M. , Cui Q.
Published: February 2023

Hybrid quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) methods have become indispensable tools for the study of biomolecules. In this article, we briefly review the basic methodological details of QM/MM approaches and discuss their applications to various energy transduction problems in biomolecular machines, such as long-range proton transports, fast electron transfers, and mechanochemical coupling. We highlight the particular importance for these applications of balancing computational efficiency and accuracy. Using several recent examples, we illustrate the value and limitations of QM/MM methodologies for both ground and excited states, as well as strategies for calibrating them in specific applications. We conclude with brief comments on several areas that can benefit from further efforts to make QM/MM analyses more quantitative and applicable to increasingly complex biological problems.
Petrogenesis and Geodynamic Significance of Xenolithic Eclogites
Authors: Aulbach Sonja , Smart Katie A.
Published: February 2023

Kimberlite-borne xenolithic eclogites, typically occurring in or near cratons, have long been recognized as remnants of Precambrian subducted oceanic crust that have undergone partial melting to yield granitoids similar to the Archean continental crust. While some eclogitized oceanic crust was emplaced into cratonic lithospheres, the majority was deeply subducted to form lithologic and geochemical heterogeneities in the convecting mantle. If we accept that most xenolithic eclogites originally formed at Earth's surface, then their geodynamic significance encompasses four tectonic environments: (a) spreading ridges, where precursors formed by partial melting of convecting mantle and subsequent melt differentiation; (b) subduction zones, where oceanic crust was metamorphosed and interacted with other slab lithologies; (c) the cratonic mantle lithosphere, where the eclogite source was variably modified subsequent to emplacement in Mesoarchean to Paleoproterozoic time; and (d) the convecting mantle, into which the vast majority of subduction-modified oceanic crust not captured in the cratonic lithosphere was recycled.
▪Xenolithic eclogites are fragments of ca. 3.0–1.8 Ga oceanic crust and signal robust subduction tectonics from the Mesoarchean.▪Multiple constraints indicate an origin as variably differentiated oceanic crust, followed by subduction metamorphism, and prolonged mantle residence.
▪Xenolithic eclogites thus permit investigation of deep geochemical cycles related to recycling of Precambrian oceanic crust.▪They help constrain asthenosphere thermal plus redox evolution and contribute to cratonic physical properties and mineral endowments.
Open Data in the Era of the GDPR: Lessons from the Human Cell Atlas
Authors: Knoppers Bartha Maria , Bernier Alexander , Bowers Sarion , Kirby Emily
Published: February 2023

The Human Cell Atlas (HCA) is striving to build an open community that is inclusive of all researchers adhering to its principles and as open as possible with respect to data access and use. However, open data sharing can pose certain challenges. For instance, being a global initiative, the HCA must contend with a patchwork of local and regional privacy rules. A notable example is the implementation of the European Union General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which caused some concern in the biomedical and genomic data-sharing community. We examine how the HCA's large, international group of researchers is investing tremendous efforts into ensuring appropriate sharing of data. We describe the HCA's objectives and governance, how it defines open data sharing, and ethico-legal challenges encountered early in its development; in particular, we describe the challenges prompted by the GDPR. Finally, we broaden the discussion to address tools and strategies that can be used to address ethical data governance.
Microfibril Aramid-Nanocellulose Fiber-Based Hybrid Separator for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Runjie , Wu Zegang , Lu Tingting , Yu Guoqing , Liu Fengqin , Hu Tao , Zhao Hongliang
Published: February 2023

The poor thermal stability and wettability of commercial polyolefin separators are safety hazards that limit the electrochemical performance of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). In this work, a novel aramid-nanocellulose fiber-based hybrid separator (Aramid-NCF separator) was fabricated by an industrial one-step paper-making process. The separator showed excellent heat stability, suitable pore structure, and outstanding electrolyte wettability, with a contact angle close to 0°. The Aramid-NCF separator showed superior ionic conductivity of 5.491 × 10−4 S·cm−1 compared with an alumina-coated PE separator (PE-Al2O3 separator) (3.260 × 10−4 S·cm−1). LIBs with the Aramid-NCF separator also showed better C-rate performance, better cycling performance, and a higher capacity retention rate than batteries prepared with the PE-Al2O3 separator. A pouch battery with the Aramid-NCF showed a higher capacity retention rate (89.17% after 200 cycles at 0.5 C) than a pouch battery with the PE-Al2O3 separator (86.01% after 200 cycles at 0.5 C). Therefore, the Aramid-NCF separator is a promising candidate for next-generation LIBs.
Single-Crystalline LiNiO2 as High-Capacity Cathode Active Material for Solid-State Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Ruess Raffael , Gomboso Davide , Ulherr Mark A. , Trevisanello Enrico , Ma Yuan , Kondrakov Aleksandr , Brezesinski Torsten , Janek Jürgen
Published: February 2023

To increase the specific capacity of LiNi1-x-yCoxMnyO2 (NCM) cathode active materials, academia and industry are aiming at a higher nickel content. The end member of this family, LiNiO2 (LNO), offers the highest practical specific capacity, but suffers from morphological and structural instabilities during electrochemical cycling. Especially for the successful implementation in solid-state batteries, coarse-grain powders of single-crystalline LNO need to be synthesized to achieve high-performance cells. While NCM-type solid solutions with Co and Mn show sufficient structural stability during synthesis, LNO rapidly decomposes under the conventional conditions for the preparation of single crystals. We address this issue by presenting an alternative route towards single-crystalline LNO based on a flux-assisted synthesis. First, LNO is prepared from NiO and LiOH precursors, which yields agglomerated crystals of LNO with notable Li deficiency. Second, this raw LNO is transferred into a Li2CO3 melt, which induces crystal growth and particle separation, and further offers a high chemical potential of Li2O for defect healing. With this method, well-separated and near-stoichiometric, large-grain LNO single crystals are obtained. When tested in solid-state battery cells, this material yields specific discharge capacities q
dis > 200 mAh g-1 at room temperature and clearly outperforms the state-of-the-art polycrystalline LNO.
Potential role of skeletal muscle glycerophosphocholine in response to altered fluid balance in humans: an in vivo nuclear magnetic resonance study
Authors: Baumgartner Clemens , Wolf Peter , Beiglböck Hannes , Pfleger Lorenz , Fellinger Paul , Heitzinger Gregor , Metz Matthäus , Leutner Michael , Kautzky-Willer Alexandra , Krššák Martin , Krebs Michael
Published: February 2023

Using in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy, our study is the first one indicating fluid balance-dependent properties of glycerophosphocholine concentrations in human skeletal muscle. In vivo examination of GPC as organic osmolyte in human skeletal muscle marks a novel approach, which might give further insight on how water and electrolyte balance affect muscle tissue. Beside this main finding, glycerophosphocholine of both calf and thigh muscle correlated remarkably with blood laboratory parameters of lipid metabolism in our study population.
Study on the Seepage Mechanism of Rainwater on Granite Residual Soil Cut Slopes
Authors: Guo Yunhong , Li Songtao , Zhang Junzhen , Wang Baolin , Gao Yanlong
Published: February 2023

In order to study the seepage process of rainwater on granite residual soil cut slopes, a numerical model for seepage analysis of granite residual soil cut slopes was established. Then, by applying the rainfall boundary condition, the seepage path of rainwater on the slope was analyzed under the condition of rainfall infiltration. Finally, during rainwater seepage, the volumetric water content and pore-water pressure change characteristics inside the slope were analyzed, and the seepage mechanism of rainwater in the granite residual soil slope was revealed. The results show that, under the condition of rainfall infiltration, the surface area of the slope gradually forms a saturated area in a temporary stable state. As the saturated area in the temporary stable state gradually extends to the inside of the slope, the area gradually increases and a groundwater level recharge area is gradually formed at the foot of the slope. Rainwater infiltration changes the original stable state of the slope, causing the granite residual soil slope to change from the two original distribution states of the unsaturated area and saturated area to the three distribution states of the temporarily stable saturated area, unsaturated area, and saturated area from top to bottom. The volumetric moisture content of slope-monitoring points increased gradually with an increase in the duration, and the overall distribution showed an “S” shape. The infiltration of rainwater causes the pore-water pressure of the granite residual soil to increase gradually, and matric suction gradually disappears. In particular, the disappearance of the matric suction at the foot of the slope will lead to the gradual weakening of the shear strength of the slope soil, thus affecting the slope stability.
Enhanced Peroxidase-Like and Antibacterial Activity of Ir-CoatedPd-Pt Nanodendrites as Nanozyme
Authors: Song Jingfang , He Jian , Yang Lin , Wang Weiguo , Bai Qinqin , Feng Wei , Li Ranhui
Published: February 2023

To inhibit the growth of bacteria, the DA-PPI nanozyme with enhanced peroxidase-like activity was synthesized. The DA-PPI nanozyme was obtained by depositing high-affinity element iridium (Ir) on the surface of Pd-Pt dendritic structures. The morphology and composition of DA-PPI nanozyme were characterized using SEM, TEM, and XPS. The kinetic results showed that the DA-PPI nanozyme possessed a higher peroxidase-like activity than that of Pd-Pt dendritic structures. The PL, ESR, and DFT were employed to explain the high peroxidase activity. As a proof of concept, the DA-PPI nanozyme could effectively inhibit E. coli (G−) and S. aureus (G+) due to its high peroxidase-like activity. The study provides a new idea for the design of high active nanozymes and their application in the field of antibacterial.
Study the Elastic Parameters of Sandy Conglomerate under Different Burial History and Petrophysical Modeling
Authors: Wang Bin , Pan Jianguo , Huang Yu , Wang Guodong , Qu Yongqiang , Zhao Jianguo
Published: February 2023

Over the past few years, significant exploration breakthroughs have been made in the sandy conglomerates reservoir of the Triassic Baikouquan Formation in the Mahu Sag, Junggar Basin, China. However, the elasticity and pore characteristics of the tight sandy conglomerates reservoir in this area are still unclear. Through a systematic sonic testing program of the sandy conglomerates sample collected from the Mahu Sag, the regularity behind the variation of the elasticity and pore characteristics of the sample has been analyzed and captured. The Triassic Baikouquan Formation of the slope of Mahu Sag has been through complex burial and diagenetic history. The compaction, cementation, and dissolution are the three types of diagenesis that have the greatest impact on pore characteristics in the study area. In order to quantitatively describe the influence of this complex burial and diagenetic history, we present a rock-physics modeling approach to describe the elastic properties of sandy conglomerate sample. The overall strategy of the modeling is to combine the contact cement theory (CCT), differential effective medium (DEM) and the upper Hashin-Shtrikman bound. The CCT model can well describe the history of cementation, DEM model is suitable for the history of dissolution, and HS upper bound is used to describe the history of compaction. Then, the model is used to describe well log data from sandy conglomerates reservoirs in Mahu Sag and successfully explain the rock porosity, pore shape trends, and the elasticity in the sandy conglomerate reservoirs.
Consensus-Based Intelligent Distributed Secondary Control for Multiagent Islanded Microgrid
Authors: Jasim Ali M. , Jasim Basil H. , Aymen Flah , Kotb Hossam , Althobaiti Ahmed
Published: February 2023

Isolated microgrids (MGs) face challenges in performance stability and active/reactive power sharing as a result of frequency/voltage deviations and mismatched line impedance issues. In this paper, a consensus-based multiagent system (MAS) is proposed as a solution to restore voltage/frequency deviations and enable true power sharing. The invention of an Intelligent Distributed Secondary Control Scheme (IDSCS) can efficiently achieve hoped-for outcomes. The proposed IDSCS features estimation and compensation sublayers. For the estimation sublayer, discrete dynamic consensus algorithm-based state estimators are presented to collect average information of frequency, voltage, and reactive power. Each DG is viewed as an agent sharing information with its immediate neighbors through a sparse cyber communication network. In the compensation sublayer, online tuned proportional integral (PI) controllers using artificial neural networks (ANNs) are proposed as an intelligent voltage and frequency compensators. This combination uses the simplicity of the PI controller mathematical formula and ANN’s ability to deal with parameter variations and nonlinearity. Due to the global nature of the frequency parameter, the active power-sharing compensator is unnecessary. For compensating reactive power deviations, ANNs-based reactive power controllers are proposed. Furthermore, at the primary control level, the proposed strategy employs discrete-time proportional resonant (PR) controllers in a stationary reference frame, eliminating the need for any

α
β
/
d
q

or

d
q
/
α
β

transformations. Distributed implementation of the proposed method guarantees system scalability without MG topology or demand pattern expertise. The control scheme was validated using hypothetical MAS in MATLAB Simulink platform. The simulation findings indicate the proposed MG system can effectively distribute power among the DGs while maintaining voltage and frequency stable.
Stability Evaluation of Sliding-Type Perilous Rock in Huangzangsi Hydrojunction Project Based on Natural Vibration Frequency
Authors: Jia Yanchang , Wang Luqi , Jiang Tong , Yin Yanli , Liu Weinan , Song Hongke , Li Xiaogen , Shi Sujiao
Published: February 2023

The instability of perilous rock is mostly manifested as sudden collapse and failure without obvious displacement characteristics. Therefore, it is difficult to achieve the purpose of monitoring and early warning by conventional displacement monitoring. But the existing stability monitoring indicators are mostly deformation, stress, and strain. There is a problem that the stability evaluation parameters are inconsistent with the monitoring parameters. Taking sliding-type perilous rock as the research object, the structural plane is assumed to be homogeneous and isotropic, and linear elastic deformation in the amplitude range. Based on the dynamic theory and limit equilibrium model, the quantitative relationship model can be established involving safety factors, natural vibration frequency, structural surface bonding area, elastic modulus, and mass. The remote laser vibrometer is used to monitor the natural vibration frequency of the sliding-type perilous rock on the slope of the Huangzangsi Hydrojunction, and the stability evaluation of the perilous rock is achieved based on the quantitative relationship model between the safety factor and the natural vibration frequency. In this way, the frequency of slipping perilous rock stability evaluation and safety factor can be monitored. The results are basically the same with the safety factor calculated by the limit equilibrium method, indicating that the method is correct and feasible. The research has high theoretical significance and practical value for the safety monitoring and advanced warning of sliding perilous rock.
Mathematical Modeling of COVID-19 with Periodic Transmission: The Case of South Africa
Authors: Assan Belthasara , Nyabadza Farai
Published: February 2023

The data on SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) in South Africa show seasonal transmission patterns to date, with the peaks having occurred in winter and summer since the outbreaks began. The transmission dynamics have mainly been driven by variations in environmental factors and virus evolution, and the two are at the center of driving the different waves of the disease. It is thus important to understand the role of seasonality in the transmission dynamics of COVID-19. In this paper, a compartmental model with a time-dependent transmission rate is formulated and the stabilities of the steady states analyzed. We note that if

R

0

<
1

, the disease-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable, and the disease completely dies out; and when

R

0

>
1

, the system admits a positive periodic solution, and the disease is uniformly or periodically persistent. The model is fitted to data on new cases in South Africa for the first four waves. The model results indicate the need to consider seasonality in the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 and its importance in modeling fluctuations in the data for new cases. The potential impact of seasonality in the transmission patterns of COVID-19 and the public health implications is discussed.
Genetic Factors Associated with Absolute and Relative Plasma Concentrations of Calcitriol
Authors: Wilson Robin Taylor , Safford Susan E. , Ostrom Quinn T. , Wang Ming , McDonald Alicia C. , Salzberg Anna C. , Barnholtz-Sloan Jill S. , Richie John P.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Little is known regarding factors associated with calcitriol and a relative measure of calcitriol, the calcitriol-24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-calcifediol proportion ratio (C24CPR).

Methods:

Using a cross-sectional study design, healthy young adults of African and European descent, matched (1:1) on age (±5 years) provided a blood sample in non-summer months (N = 376). Vitamin D metabolites were measured in plasma with HPLC/MS-MS. West African genetic ancestry proportion (WGA) was estimated using STRUCTURE modeling of genetic ancestry-informative markers. Multivariable regression models were used to estimate the association of WGA and vitamin D–pathway gene variants with calcitriol and C24CPR, controlling for days from summer solstice, age, sex, blood pressure, body mass index, dietary vitamin D intake, oral contraceptive/medroxyprogesterone acetate use, smoking, tanning bed use, and time of day.

Results:

Calcitriol and C24CPR were not highly correlated (rho = 0.14), although both were significantly, positively, and monotonically associated with WGA (Ptrend 0.025 and <0.001, respectively). In fully adjusted models, genetic factors explained a greater proportion of variability in C24CPR (R2 = 0.121 and 0.310, respectively). Variants in genes with associated with calcitriol (CALB1, CYP27B1, GC, and PPARGC1A) differed from those associated with C24CPR (CYP3A43, FGF23, KL, and VDR).

Conclusions:

Both absolute and relative measures of calcitriol were significantly higher among African Americans. Otherwise, these biomarkers appear to be genetically distinct.

Impact:

C24CPR may be better suited to personalized medicine, due to a higher proportion of population variability explained by genetic variation and a less skewed distribution.
Epidemiology and Psychiatric Correlates of Cancer among Homeless and Unstably Housed Veterans in the VA Health Care System
Authors: Tsai Jack , Szymkowiak Dorota , Zullig Leah L.
Published: February 2023

Background:

This study examined the incidence and correlates of cancer among homeless and unstably housed (HUH) veterans as compared with stably housed (SH) veterans.

Methods:

Using Veterans Affairs (VA) administrative data from 564,563 HUH and 5,213,820 SH veterans in 2013 and 2014, we examined the types and stages of 69 different types of cancer diagnosed among HUH and SH veterans. Sociodemographic and psychiatric characteristics associated with cancer were also examined.

Results:

The 1-year incidence rate of cancer was 21.5% lower among HUH veterans than SH veterans (0.68% and 0.86%, respectively). There was no difference in the most common stages and types of cancer among HUH and SH veterans. The most common primary sites of cancer were in the prostate, lung, and bronchus. HUH veterans were more likely than SH veterans to have cancer of the liver and intrahepatic bile ducts (∆4.79%). Among HUH veterans, older age and alcohol use disorder were associated with greater risk for any incident cancer while suicidal ideation/behaviors were associated with lower risk. Psychiatric conditions were often diagnosed before cancer diagnosis for SH and HUH veterans; rates of substance use disorders and suicidal ideation/behaviors decreased in HUH veterans after cancer diagnosis.

Conclusions:

The VA health care system serves many HUH veterans with cancer. Mental health and substance use disorders are important to treat in veterans at risk of cancer and as potential sequalae of cancer.

Impact:

The high prevalence of psychiatric disorders in HUH populations is important to consider in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in these populations.
Five-Year Clinical Outcomes after Neoadjuvant Nivolumab in Resectable Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Rosner Samuel , Reuss Joshua E. , Zahurak Marianna , Zhang Jiajia , Zeng Zhen , Taube Janis , Anagnostou Valsamo , Smith Kellie N. , Riemer Joanne , Illei Peter B. , Broderick Stephen R. , Jones David R. , Topalian Suzanne L. , Pardoll Drew M. , Brahmer Julie R. , Chaft Jamie E. , Forde Patrick M.
Published: February 2023

Purpose:

Neoadjuvant anti–PD-1 therapy has shown promise for resectable non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We reported the first phase I/II trial of neoadjuvant nivolumab in resectable NSCLC, finding it to be safe and feasible with encouraging major pathological responses (MPR). We now present 5-year clinical outcomes from this trial, representing to our knowledge, the longest follow-up data for neoadjuvant anti–PD-1 in any cancer type.

Patients and Methods:

Two doses of nivolumab (3 mg/kg) were administered for 4 weeks before surgery to 21 patients with Stage I–IIIA NSCLC. 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), and associations with MPR and PD-L1, were evaluated.

Results:

With a median follow-up of 63 months, 5-year RFS and OS rates were 60% and 80%, respectively. The presence of MPR and pre-treatment tumor PD-L1 positivity (TPS ≥1%) each trended toward favorable RFS; HR, 0.61 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.15–2.44] and HR, 0.36 (95% CI, 0.07–1.85), respectively. At 5-year follow-up, 8 of 9 (89%) patients with MPR were alive and disease-free. There were no cancer-related deaths among patients with MPR. In contrast, 6/11 patients without MPR experienced tumor relapse, and 3 died.

Conclusions:

Five-year clinical outcomes for neoadjuvant nivolumab in resectable NSCLC compare favorably with historical outcomes. MPR and PD-L1 positivity trended toward improved RFS, though definitive conclusions are limited by cohort size.
Scaffolding Protein Connector Enhancer of Kinase Suppressor of Ras 1 (CNKSR1) Regulates MAPK Inhibition Responsiveness in Pancreas Cancer via Crosstalk with AKT Signaling
Authors: Li Dandan , Miermont Anne M. , Sable Rushikesh , Quadri Humair S. , Mathews Griner Lesley A. , Martin Scott E. , Odzorig Taivan , De Soumita , Ferrer Marc , Powers Astin S. , Hewitt Stephen M. , Rudloff Udo
Published: February 2023

Combinatorial molecular therapy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has yielded largely disappointing results in clinical testing to-date as a multitude of adaptive resistance mechanisms is making selection of patients via molecular markers that capture essential, intersecting signaling routes challenging. Here, we report the scaffolding protein connector enhancer of kinase suppressor of Ras 1 (CNKSR1) as mediator of resistance to MAPK (MEK) inhibition. MEK inhibition in CNKSR1high cancer cells induces translocation of CNKSR1 to the plasma membrane where the scaffolding protein interacts with and stabilizes the phosphorylated form of AKT. CNKSR1-mediated AKT activation following MEK inhibition was associated with increased cellular p-PRAS40 levels and reduced nuclear translocation and cellular levels of FoxO1, a negative regulator of AKT signaling. In clinical PDAC specimens, high cytoplasmatic CNKSR1 levels correlated with increased cellular phospho-AKT and mTOR levels. Pharmacological co-blockade of AKT and MEK ranked top in induced synergies with MEK inhibition in CNKSR1high pancreas cancer cells among other inhibitor combinations targeting known CNKSR1 signaling. In vivo, CNKSR1high pancreatic tumors treated with AKT and MEK inhibitors showed improved outcome in the combination arm compared with single-agent treatment, an effect not observed in CNKSR1low models.

Our results identify CNKSR1 as regulator of adaptive resistance to MEK inhibition by promoting crosstalk to AKT signaling via a scaffolding function for the phosphorylated form of AKT. CNSKR1 expression might be a possible molecular marker to enrich patients for future AKT–MEK inhibitor precision medicine studies.

Implications:

The CNKSR1 scaffold, identified within an RNAi screen as a novel mediator of resistance to MEK inhibition in pancreas cancer, connects the MAPK pathway and AKT signaling and may be adopted as a biomarker to select patients for combined MEK AKT blockade.
Patient Information Leaflets of Drugs Used in Cardiometabolic Disorders: Suitability for Use by Older Persons
Authors: Espírito-Santo Margarida , Nascimento Tânia , Pinto Ezequiel , Estêvão M. Dulce
Published: February 2023

In the European Union, all medicines must include appropriate labelling and the respective patient information leaflet (PIL), which is the most reachable source of medicine’s information for patients. This document includes a set of information understandable by their potential users and complementary to the information provided by health professionals. The ageing of the Portuguese population raises the need for the appropriateness of medicine’s information for older consumers, taking into account their specific needs arising from physiological changes impacting drug action. This project aimed to analyse the content of medicines’ PILs, specifically directed at older persons. A sample of medicines was selected considering the 100 active substances more consumed in Portugal by patients with chronic pathologies such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia. The analysis included readability, legibility, and content (directly and indirectly related to the use of medicines by older persons). A total of 69 PILs were analysed, and it was observed that the information provided about the drugs was included in most of these PILs (95.7%; n = 66) but without any specific information for patients belonging to different age groups. Signalling-specific warnings for older persons were only available in less than half of the PILs (46.4%; n = 32). The presence of relevant information on the appropriate use of the drug such as the recommended dose was only specified for older persons in 28% (n = 19) of the analysed PILs. The information available in PILs which can be considered as specifically directed to older persons is relatively scarce, even in areas as critical as the instructions for use. Hopefully, these results will contribute to increasing awareness regarding the need to adapt PILs’ content to specific consumers and to test them to guarantee that they are adequate for all potential consumers.
Two Novel Human Leukocyte Antigen Alleles Are Associated with Decreased Risk of Onychomycosis in a Large Cohort of Danish Blood Donors
Authors: Lindsø Andersen Pernille , Jemec Gregor Borut Ernst , Erikstrup Christian , Didriksen Maria , Dinh Khoa Manh , Mikkelsen Susan , Bruun Mie Topholm , Hjalgrim Henrik , Hansen Thomas Folkmann , Sækmose Susanne Gjørup , Ostrowski Sisse Rye , Pedersen Ole Birger , Saunte Ditte Marie
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Antigen presentation and antimicrobial immune responses involve the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system. Onychomycosis is primarily caused by dermatophytes and affects around 5.5% of the population worldwide. Yet, only limited data exist on the associations between the HLA system and onychomycosis. Thus, the objective of the study was to investigate if there is an association between HLA alleles and onychomycosis. Methods: Participants in the Danish Blood Donor Study were defined as cases of onychomycosis and controls based on antifungal prescriptions in the national prescription registry. Associations were investigated using logistic regressions adjusted for confounders and were Bonferroni corrected for multiple tests. Results: A total of 3,665 participants were considered onychomycosis cases, and 24,144 participants were considered controls. We found two protective HLA alleles of onychomycosis: DQB1*06:04, odds ratios (OR) 0.80 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71–0.90), and DRB1*13:02, OR 0.79 (95% CI: 0.71–0.89). Conclusion: The finding of two novel protective alleles of onychomycosis indicates that certain HLA alleles have certain antigen presentation properties affecting the risk of fungal infection. These findings may provide the basis for future research identifying immunologically relevant antigens of fungi causing onychomycosis, which could ultimately lead to targets of new drugs with antifungal effects.
A Regional Survey of Awareness of Inflammatory Bowel Disease among the Saudi Population
Authors: Meeralam Yaser Khalid , Al Zanabgi Adnan , Mosli Mahmoud , Qari Yosif , Al Saedi Mona , Tashkhandi Abdulaziz , Eliouny Mohmoud , Neyazi Abdulwahab , Al Hazmi Ghadeer , Shariff Mohammed Kareem
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is common worldwide, including the gulf region. Early diagnosis of IBD can improve patients’ outcomes. However, early diagnosis is dependent on patients’ awareness of the disease to seek medical advice. This study aimed to survey the awareness of IBD in the general population of the western region of Saudi Arabia. Methods: A questionnaire about Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) was distributed to the general public. A score of 1 was given for the right response and 0 for an incorrect response, giving a maximum of 3 and a minimum of 0 for the three questions in the questionnaire. Results: 1,304 participants responded. Twenty nine percentage had not heard or read about CD, while 19% had not heard or read about UC. The mean awareness level score was 1.72 ± 1.19. Females showed a significantly higher score compared to males (p < 0.001). The age-group 31 to 40 had the highest score (p = 0.002). Moreover, responders who had a PhD. showed significantly higher scores than those with other educational degrees (p < 0.001). Responders who dealt with CD or UC patients showed significantly higher scores than their peers (p < 0.001) for both. Conclusion: The general population in Saudi Arabia has an unacceptable level of awareness of IBD. Females, young adults (age-group: 31–40 years), educated individuals (with a PhD), and those who had dealt with IBD patients previously had better awareness compared to the rest of the population. National acts are essential to improve public awareness toward the disease.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Arising in Discoid Lupus Erythematosus of the Nail Unit
Authors: Yendo Tatiana Mina , Gabbi Tatiana Villas Boas , Nico Marcello Menta Simonsen
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Discoid lupus erythematosus can affect periungual tissues leading to onychodystrophy. Squamous cell carcinoma can occur in persistent scars of discoid lupus; this rare occurrence has not yet been reported on the nail unit. Case presentation: we report a case of squamous cell carcinoma occurring on the distal phalanx of the thumb in a patient with longstanding periungual discoid lupus on several fingernails. Discussion: Periungual discoid lupus erythematosus is rare. The scars caused by this disease can very rarely develop into squamous cell carcinoma. This is the first report of this occurrence at the periungual tissues.
Phytoestrogen Treatment for Menopausal Vasomotor Symptoms after Breast Cancer
Authors: Vogel Marie , Franik Sebastian , Kiesel Ludwig
Published: February 2023

Introduction: In breast cancer patients, menopausal symptoms are often reached earlier and in a more severe manner than in healthy women. They can dramatically reduce a patient’s quality of life. Treatment for breast cancer patients remains difficult due to hormone replacement therapy being contraindicated. Therefore, treatment alternatives like herbal phytoestrogen preparations are considered to be a treatment option. Methods: All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated comparisons of food products, extracts, or dietary supplements containing phytoestrogens in women with a diagnosis of breast cancer were included in the analysis. Results: There was no evidence that phytoestrogen preparations had a benefit over placebo in the treatment of breast cancer patients with menopausal symptoms. Neither the frequency nor severity of menopausal symptoms and the quality of life or occurrence of adverse events were reduced in comparison to a placebo. Conclusion: As we cannot prove a benefit of plant extracts in the treatment of menopausal symptoms in breast cancer patients, different herbal preparations should be analyzed in RCTs in order to find sufficient and safe new treatment options for symptomatic menopausal breast cancer patients. A focus should also be laid on developing a core outcome set to simplify pooling of different studies.
Silibinin, an HSP90 Inhibitor, on Human ACTH-Secreting Adenomas
Authors: Pecori Giraldi Francesca , Cassarino Maria Francesca , Sesta Antonella , Lasio Giovanni , Losa Marco
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The glucocorticoid receptor is pivotal to control corticotrophin (ACTH) secretion, and its function is closely linked to the heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) chaperone complex. Impaired sensitivity to glucocorticoid feedback is a hallmark of human corticotroph adenomas, i.e., Cushing’s disease, a disorder with few medical treatment options. Silibinin, a HSP90 inhibitor, has been studied in tumoral corticotroph cells and its use proposed in Cushing’s disease. Aim of the present study was to further investigate the effect of silibinin on human corticotroph adenomas in vitro. Methods: Seven human ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas were established in culture and treated with 10–50 µm silibinin with/without dexamethasone for up to 72 h. ACTH medium levels were measured, and POMC and glucocorticoid receptor, i.e., NR3C1, gene expression assessed. Results: Silibinin reduced spontaneous ACTH secretion and restored sensitivity to steroid negative feedback to a different extent in individual adenomas. POMC expression was decreased in both control and dexamethasone-treated wells in specimens sensitive to silibinin. Interestingly, silibinin reduced constitutive NR3C1 expression and reversed the dexamethasone-induced inhibition. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that silibinin can inhibit ACTH synthesis and secretion in individual human corticotroph adenomas and directly affects NR3C1 gene expression. These results reveal promising effects of this HSP90 inhibitor on human corticotroph adenomas and support an innovative target treatment for patients with Cushing’s disease.
Review of Implant Gonadotrophin-Releasing Hormone Agonist Use: Experience in a Single Academic Center
Authors: Ni Jennifer , Chi Carolyn , Aye Tandy
Published: February 2023

Background: Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHas) are used for puberty suppression in central precocious puberty (CPP) and gender dysphoria (GD). Guidelines on biochemical monitoring are not defined. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of biochemical monitoring of GnRHa therapy in patients with CPP or GD. Methods: This is a retrospective chart review of patients 18 years or younger who received GnRHa therapy from January 1, 2018, to March 20, 2021. Results: A total of 103 patients were evaluated, 43 with CPP and 60 with GD. Using thresholds of basal luteinizing hormone (LH) <2 IU/L and stimulated LH <4 IU/L, biochemical pubertal suppression occurred in all but 2 patients. Basal LH frequently remained above prepubertal range. Conclusions: Laboratory assessment for puberty suppression on GnRHa therapy may be unnecessary in CPP and GD patients monitored with physical exams.
Comunicação turística acessível a pessoas com deficiências: uma revisão bibliométrica e integrativa da literatura
Authors: Rodrigues Igor Moraes , Perinotto André Riani Costa
Published: February 2023

Considerando que o turismo envolve deslocamento, encontros, uma série de contemplações de paisagens e atrativos e fornecimento e recebimento constantes de informações, uma parcela da população, tais como as pessoas com deficiências, é lesada em sua participação turística. O objetivo deste trabalho é sistematizar as publicações sobre comunicação turística acessível a pessoas com deficiências. Com base em um estudo exploratório, este artigo realizou revisão bibliométrica e sistemática integrativa da literatura. Para tal, foi empregado o descritor “accessible tourism communication” nas bases de dados Scopus e Web of Science. As buscas viabilizaram compilar um escopo de 13 artigos. Os indicadores bibliométricos apontaram que o estudo da temática é recente e escasso, visto que os artigos foram publicados nos últimos 13 anos e que a dispersão espacial dos pesquisadores se concentra na Europa. Por meio de revisão sistemática integrativa averiguou-se que: (i) há duas abordagens nos artigos: comunicação turística acessível on-line (61,54%) e comunicação turística acessível não on-line (38,46%); (ii) apenas 15% dos artigos fazem menção a deficiências específicas. Concluiu-se que a união da comunicação turística acessível on-line com a não on-line é a melhor maneira de auxiliar as pessoas com deficiências em seus planejamentos e experiências turísticas.
Impacts of value co-creation in rural tourism services: the case of a Santa Catarina farm hotel
Authors: Bonamigo Andrei , Soares Carlos Alberto Lidizia
Published: February 2023

Rural tourism constitutes an alternative for Brazilian socioeconomic development, as well as implies the mitigation exodus rural and is a strategy for regional development. In this perspective, value co-creation among rural environment players allows access to knowledge, information, and technologies through resources complementary, which bolster tourist activity development. Given the above, this study sought to diagnose, by means of a case study, the impacts of value co-creation in a farm hotel. To do so, two on-site visits were conduct at the farm hotel, in which participants provided interviews and document analysis. Data were then investigated by content analysis based on Bardin (2011). Based on the findings, a series of contributions arise from value co-creation in the surroundings of the Hotel Fazenda, as well as barriers, which presented themselves as hinderers of the value co-creation in rural service context. Value co-creation for the surrounding community allows to provide new experiences to the tourist, so that regional and cultural aspects, and typical food aspects of the region are disseminated. Value co-creation has proven to be a way to stimulate collaborative competitiveness, by sharing and complementing resources. On the other hand, the fragility of the adopted management and selection methods of actors for cooperation has been shown to be a risk, which can result in value co-destruction.
Afetos online: memória, presença e trocas em eventos na pandemia
Authors: Moran Patricia , Paranhos Tom
Published: February 2023

As expressões novas tecnologias e tecnologias de inovação supõem a gênese de eventos ou objetos inexistentes. A situação de isolamento pediu invenções rápidas, respostas técnicas à nova situação experimentada pela humanidade. Nos debruçaremos sobre algumas performances de Filipe Catto no Instagram, pressupondo tratar-se o novo de uma relação. O artista, por meio de seu repertório e performance, ocupou as plataformas, convocando memórias partilhadas por seu público. Desta experiência de ocupação e uso dos espaços on-line, desejos e afetos reinventaram o espaço doméstico para além de sua concretude do confinamento. As apresentações reinventaram pela poética espaços possíveis graças à técnica
Litoestratigrafia e aspectos metalogenéticos do Complexo Máfico-Ultramáfico Estratiforme de Tucunduba, Província Borborema, Ceará – Brasil
Authors: Cavalcante Dayme Hermesson Alves , Parente Clóvis Vaz , Guimarães Ignez de Pinho , Santos Lucilene dos
Published: February 2023

O Complexo Máfico-Ultramáfico Estratiforme de Tucunduba (CMUET) compreende uma intrusão acamadada com geometria elipsoidal, com eixo maior apresentando direção N025° e área de aproximadamente 4 km2, constituído de metapiroxenitos, metagabros e metagabronoritos intrudidos em rochas granito-migmatíticas de idade paleoproterozoica do Domínio Ceará Central (DCC), Província Borborema (PB), Nordeste do Brasil. Essa associação magmática é cortada por diques alcalinos de idade oligocênica, pertencentes ao Vulcanismo Messejana. As rochas máfico-ultramáficas são representadas por três zonas litológicas: Zona Ultramáfica de composição peridotítica e piroxenítica localizada na porção noroeste do complexo; Zona de Transição caracterizada por mistura de rochas piroxeníticas e gabroicas, com textura e estrutura variadas; e Zona Máfica de composição gabro-norítica, concentrada na porção sudeste, além dos bordos oeste e norte do corpo. As zonas formadoras do CMUET foram afetadas parcialmente por deformação e recristalização metamórfica, resultantes de metamorfismo regional em fácies granulito, evidenciado por textura de poligonização formada por cristais de ortopiroxênio e clinopiroxênio, bem como ocorrência de hercinita, experimentaram retrometamorfismo em fácies anfibolito, com expressiva formação de hornblenda, e alteração hidrotermal em condições de fácies xisto verde a sub-xisto verde, caracterizada pela formação de minerais hidratados (talco, serpentina, actinolita, tremolita e clorita). Texturas e estruturas primárias, como acamamento ígneo, do tipo rítmico, e textura cumulática, são ainda preservadas. Importantes ocorrências de blocos de minério maciço rico em Fe-Ti (± V) são encontradas, principalmente, no domínio das rochas metamáficas. Dados de geoquímica de solos indicam valores anômalos de S, Cu, Co, Ni, Ti e V, sugerindo a existência de alvos potenciais para sulfetos (Cu, Co e Ni) e óxidos (Ti e V).
Filling gaps in the knowledge of the Colombian Darwin wasps (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae): new records, description of unknown males, and taxonomical notes
Authors: PÁDUA DIEGO G. , FERNANDES DANIELL R.R. , ARAUJO RODRIGO O. , MAZARIEGOS LUIS A.
Published: February 2023

Darwin wasps (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) are parasitoids and a natural enemy of a wide range of holometabolous insects and spiders and are considered one of the largest families in the animal kingdom. Unfortunately, there are great gaps in the knowledge of this family in Colombia. This study aims to expand the knowledge of Darwin wasps in Colombia, through new records for the country and especially the department of Antioquia. We present the diagnosis and digital images of the recorded species, and we describe for the first time the males of three species of Dolichomitus Smith, 1877: D. mariajosae Araujo & Pádua, 2020; D. menai Araujo & Pádua, 2020; D. orejuelai Araujo & Pádua, 2020.
Two new species of the bamboo-feeding subgenus Myittana (Benglebra) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) from China
Authors: ZHAO YONG-TAO , LUO QIANG , YANG LIN , LONG JIAN-KUN , CHANG ZHI-MIN , CHEN XIANG-SHENG
Published: February 2023

Two new species of the bamboo-feeding genus Myittana (Benglebra) Mahmood & Ahmad, 1969, M. (B.) weiningensis Zhao, Luo & Chen sp. nov. and M. (B.) dongae Zhao, Luo & Chen sp. nov. from China (Guizhou and Guangxi) are described and illustrated. A key to all known species of the subgenus Myittana (Benglebra) is also given.
Analysis and Application of the Influence of Magnetic Material and Magnetic Gap on Electromagnetic Actuator
Authors: Yan Jin , Wang Juan , Zhang Juan , Zhang Dapeng
Published: February 2023

The impact of the actuator is examined in light of the properties of various materials. The features of the N48 material are examined when the N48 permanent magnet material is chosen. A novel magnetic steel construction for an electromagnetic actuator is built after analysis of the
air gap structure. The functionality and nonlinear issues of the electromagnetic actuator are investigated in accordance with the properties of the materials and constructions. The link between electromagnetic output and current and frequency is investigated and determined using theoretical
analysis, finite element analysis, and real test. The magnetic flux density distribution, electromagnetic dynamic response, current frequency relationship, and surface skin effect are derived using the electromagnetic simulation model built in COMSOL. Time domain simulation is used to determine
the electromagnetic actuator’s static linearity. Simulation in a steady state is used to determine the operating linearity of an electromagnetic actuator. To confirm the accuracy of the theoretical and simulation results, the electromagnetic actuator prototype is put to the test. The
simulation results demonstrate the high linearity and good performance of the electromagnetic actuator, with an average static linearity of 97.24%. To confirm the validity of the theory and simulation, an actual test is conducted on the structural prototype. The outcomes can not only serve
as a guide for the best design of electromagnetic actuators but can also demonstrate the benefits and potential uses of various materials used in actuator construction.
Remaining Useful Life Prediction Method of Offshore Equipment Bearings Based on Convolutional Neural Network-Bidirectional Gated Recurrent Unit-Squeeze and Excitation
Authors: Jin Yan , Xin Wang , Dapeng Zhang , Zhiqiang Liao , Ximing Wu
Published: February 2023

The remaining useful life forecast (RUL) of rolling bearings, a crucial part of offshore equipment, is one of the most troublesome equipment because it may avoid equipment failure and lessen equipment failure loss. This paper proposes a method to build CNN-BIGRU bearing health indicators
based on the SE attention mechanism, and combines primary linear regression to predict the RUL of bearings in order to address the issues of low accuracy and poor generalization performance in the current bearing RUL prediction. The proposed method combines the spatial feature extraction capability
of convolutional neural networks with the temporal feature extraction capability of bidirectional gated recurrent units, allowing it to effectively use feature information from the spatial and temporal dimensions of vibration signals to improve prediction accuracy and stability. The suggested
technique is validated in this research using experimental data from the 2012 IEEE PHM Challenge for the whole life cycle bearing. The experimental findings reveal that the approach can more accurately estimate the RUL of the bearing than the standard model, proving the usefulness and viability
of the suggested method.