bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The geochemistry, origin, and hydrothermal alteration mapping associated with the gold-bearing quartz veins at Hamash district, South Eastern Desert, Egypt
Authors: Abdel-Rahman Ahmed M. , El-Desoky Hatem M. , Shebl Ali , El-Awny Hamada , Amer Yahia Z. , Csámer Árpád
Published: September 2023

Integrating diverse techniques and datasets, significantly enhances the accurate identification of various mineral deposits. This work aims to determine different types of mineral deposits in the Hamash district (Southern Eastern Desert, Egypt) by combining structural features (derived from ALOS PALSAR DEM), alteration zones (detected using ASTER and Sentinel-2), and ore mineralogy. Multispectral imaging, such as ASTER and Sentinel-2 satellite data, provides a cost-effective and efficient tool for lithological and hydrothermal alteration mapping utilizing selective band ratios (SBR), directed principal component analysis (DPCA), feature-oriented false-color composites (FFCC), and constrained energy minimization (CEM). The deductions drawn from the analysis of ASTER and Sentinel 2 satellite data are solidly corroborated through meticulous investigations of pre-existing lithological maps in the study area, on-site validation via fieldwork, and robust laboratory analysis, attesting to reliable results. Validation of remote sensing results was performed through field observations, petrographic investigations, X-ray diffraction technique (XRD), and SEM–EDX analyses. Based on ore mineralogy derived from XRD and SEM results the quartz-vein-associated ore minerals in the Hamash district include chalcopyrite, pyrite, hematite, goethite, bornite, covellite, and gold. According to the present paragenesis, the mineralization in the study area is classified into three types: sulfide mineralized zone, transitional zone, and supergene zone. Using an ore microscope, our studies identified that the alteration zones include gold-bearing sulfide minerals as well as the minerals goethite and malachite. In gold-bearing quartz samples, the concentrations of Cu, As, Ag, and Sb are positively correlated with Au at the degree of shear deformation. According to data gathered from the fire assay results, Au content varied from 0.027 to 57.20 ppm, along with Cu (10–6484 ppm), Ag (0.5–20.5 ppm), As (5–2046 ppm), Zn (3–1095 ppm), Pb (2–1383 ppm), and Sb (5–23). Our results confirmed that the Hamash region is one of the most important gold-bearing sites, with gold concentrations ranging from 0.027 up to 57.20 ppm. Furthermore, the current contribution highlighted four stages in the paragenetic sequence of the recorded ores, including magmatic, metamorphic, hydrothermal, and supergene by origin, indicating a considered similarity with the known Egyptian gold sites regarding host rocks, mineralization style, alteration assemblage, and several ore mineral conditions.
Humoral response to SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine on in ABO blood type incompatible kidney transplant recipients treated with low-dose rituximab
Authors: Hamaya Tomoko , Hatakeyama Shingo , Yoneyama Tohru , Tobisawa Yuki , Kodama Hirotake , Fujita Takeshi , Murakami Reiichi , Mori Kazuyuki , Okamoto Teppei , Yamamoto Hayato , Yoneyama Takahiro , Hashimoto Yasuhiro , Saitoh Hisao , Narumi Shunji , Tomita Hirofumi , Ohyama Chikara
Published: September 2023

We aimed to evaluate the humoral response after the second and third doses of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine in ABO blood type incompatible kidney transplant (KT) recipients treated with rituximab. This retrospective study conducted between June 2021 and June 2022 included 131 KT recipients and 154 nontransplant controls who had received mRNA vaccines. We compared the seropositivity (anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike IgG antibody titer ≥ 0.8 U/mL) after the second and third vaccinations. Furthermore, we evaluated the impact of pretransplant vaccination for seropositivity. Of the 131 KT recipients, 50 had received the third dose of mRNA vaccine. The antibody titer was significantly increased after the third dose of mRNA vaccine. The seropositivity rate after the third dose of mRNA vaccine increased from 36 to 70%. We observed no significant difference in seropositivity after the third dose of mRNA vaccine in ABO incompatibility, rituximab use, mycophenolate mofetil use, and age at KT. Of the nine recipients who had received the second or third dose of the mRNA vaccine prior to the KT, eight of the recipients were seropositive both before and after the KT. Our results suggest that ABO incompatibility or rituximab use was not significantly associated with seropositivity.
Enhanced extraction of bioactive compounds from propolis (Apis mellifera L.) using subcritical water
Authors: Shin Su-Bin , Lee Jin-Kyoung , Ko Min-Jung
Published: September 2023

The bioactive compounds and antioxidant activities of propolis extracts were investigated using subcritical water extraction (SWE). SWE was performed by varying temperature (110–200 °C) and time (10–30 min). SWE using only water as solvent successfully to extracted bioactive compounds from propolis using high-purity glass thimbles. The concentrations of galangin (16.37 ± 0.61 mg/g), and chrysin (7.66 ± 0.64 mg/g) were maximal at 200 °C for 20 min, and 170 °C for 20 min, respectively. The antioxidative properties from propolis increased with the increasing extraction temperature and extraction time on SWE. The maximum yields of the total phenolics (226.37 ± 4.37 mg/g), flavonoids (70.28 ± 1.33 mg/g), and antioxidant activities (88.73 ± 0.58%, 98.86 ± 0.69%, and 858.89 ± 11.48 mg/g) were obtained at 200 °C for 20 min. Compared with using ethanol extraction (at 25 °C for 24 h, total phenolics = 176.28 ± 0.35, flavonoids = 56.41 ± 0.65, antioxidant activities = 72.74 ± 0.41%, 95.18 ± 0.11%, 619.51 ± 8.17 mg/g), all yields of SWE extracts obtained at 200 °C for 20 min were higher. SWE is suitable for a much faster and more efficient method extracting bioactive compounds from propolis compared to traditional extraction method.
Deciphering shared attributes of plant long non-coding RNAs through a comparative computational approach
Authors: Yadav Vikash Kumar , Jalmi Siddhi Kashinath , Tiwari Shalini , Kerkar Savita
Published: September 2023

Over the past decade, long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), which lacks protein-coding potential, has emerged as an essential regulator of the genome. The present study examined 13,599 lncRNAs in Arabidopsis thaliana, 11,565 in Oryza sativa, and 32,397 in Zea mays for their characteristic features and explored the associated genomic and epigenomic features. We found lncRNAs were distributed throughout the chromosomes and the Helitron family of transposable elements (TEs) enriched, while the terminal inverted repeat depleted in lncRNA transcribing regions. Our analyses determined that lncRNA transcribing regions show rare or weak signals for most epigenetic marks except for H3K9me2 and cytosine methylation in all three plant species. LncRNAs showed preferential localization in the nucleus and cytoplasm; however, the distribution ratio in the cytoplasm and nucleus varies among the studied plant species. We identified several conserved endogenous target mimic sites in the lncRNAs among the studied plants. We found 233, 301, and 273 unique miRNAs, potentially targeting the lncRNAs of A. thaliana, O. sativa, and Z. mays, respectively. Our study has revealed that miRNAs, which interact with lncRNAs, target genes that are involved in a diverse array of biological and molecular processes. The miRNA-targeted lncRNAs displayed a strong affinity for several transcription factors, including ERF and BBR-BPC, mutually present in all three plants, advocating their conserved functions. Overall, the present study showed that plant lncRNAs exhibit conserved genomic and epigenomic characteristics and potentially govern the growth and development of plants.
Molecular characterization of MRSA collected during national surveillance between 2008 and 2019 in the Netherlands
Authors: Schouls Leo M. , Witteveen Sandra , van Santen-Verheuvel Marga , de Haan Angela , Landman Fabian , van der Heide Han , Kuijper Ed J. , Notermans Daan W. , Bosch Thijs , Hendrickx Antoni P. A. ,   the Dutch MRSA surveillance study group, van Arkel A. L. E. , Leversteijn-van Hall M. A. , van den Bijllaardt W. , van Mansfeld R. , van Dijk K. , Zwart B. , Diederen B. M. W. , Berkhout H. , Notermans D. W. , Ott A. , Waar K. , Ang W. , da Silva J. , Vlek A. L. M. , Buiting A. G. M. , Bode L. G. M. , Jansz A. , Paltansing S. , van Griethuysen A. J. , Ten Foe J. R. Lo , van Trijp M. J. C. A. , Wong M. , Muller A. E. , van der Linden M. P. M. , van Rijn M. , Debast S. B. , Kolwijck E. , Naiemi N. Al , Schulin T. , Dinant S. , van Mens S. P. , Melles D. C. , Stuart J. W. T. Cohen , Gruteke P. , van Dam A. , Maat I. , Maraha B. , Sinnige J. C. , van der Vorm E. , van Meer M. P. A. , van Maarseveen N. , de Jong E. , Vainio S. J. , Heikens E. , den Reijer M. , Dorigo-Zetsma J. W. , Troelstra A. , Bathoorn E. , de Vries J. , van Dam D. W. , de Brauwer E. I. G. B. , Steingrover R.
Published: September 2023

Background.

Although the Netherlands is a country with a low endemic level, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a significant health care problem. Therefore, high coverage national MRSA surveillance has been in place since 1989. To monitor possible changes in the type-distribution and emergence of resistance and virulence, MRSA isolates are molecularly characterized.

Methods.

All 43,321 isolates from 36,520 persons, collected 2008–2019, were typed by multiple-locus variable number tandem repeats analysis (MLVA) with simultaneous PCR detection of the mecA, mecC and lukF-PV genes, indicative for PVL. Next-generation sequencing data of 4991 isolates from 4798 persons were used for whole genome multi-locus sequence typing (wgMLST) and identification of resistance and virulence genes.

Results.

We show temporal change in the molecular characteristics of the MRSA population with the proportion of PVL-positive isolates increasing from 15% in 2008–2010 to 25% in 2017–2019. In livestock-associated MRSA obtained from humans, PVL-positivity increases to 6% in 2017–2019 with isolates predominantly from regions with few pig farms. wgMLST reveals the presence of 35 genogroups with distinct resistance, virulence gene profiles and specimen origin. Typing shows prolonged persistent MRSA carriage with a mean carriage period of 407 days. There is a clear spatial and a weak temporal relationship between isolates that clustered in wgMLST, indicative for regional spread of MRSA strains.

Conclusions.

Using molecular characterization, this exceptionally large study shows genomic changes in the MRSA population at the national level. It reveals waxing and waning of types and genogroups and an increasing proportion of PVL-positive MRSA.
Egg yolk phosphatidylcholine alleviates DSS-induced colitis in BALB/c mice
Authors: Wen Yunpeng , Tan Lixin , Chen Shuping , Wu Na , Yao Yao , Xu Lilan , Xu Mingsheng , Zhao Yan , Tu Yonggang
Published: September 2023

EYPC alleviates DSS-induced colitis in mice by reducing inflammatory response, protecting intestinal barrier, and regulating gut microbiota.
Rational design of efficient electrocatalysts for hydrogen production by water electrolysis at high current density
Authors: Wan Yuchi , Zhou Lingxi , Lv Ruitao
Published: September 2023

Challenges and design strategies of electrocatalysts for high-current–density water electrolysis.
New insights on the luminescence properties and Judd–Ofelt analysis of Er-doped ZnO semiconductor quantum dots
Authors: Ca N. X. , Hien N. T. , Fan Xingxiang , Do P. V. , Yen V. H. , Hao P. V. , Quynh L. K. , Huong T. T. T. , Quang V. X.
Published: September 2023

Schematic energy level diagram of ZnO QDs, and transfer energy mechanism from ZnO host to Er3+ ion.
Atomic layer deposition of Y2O3 films using a novel liquid homoleptic yttrium precursor tris(sec-butylcyclopentadienyl)yttrium [Y(sBuCp)3] and water
Authors: Nishida Akihiro , Katayama Tsukasa , Matsuo Yasutaka
Published: September 2023

Atomic layer deposition of Y2O3 films was demonstrated using a novel liquid homoleptic yttrium precursor Y(sBuCp)3 and water. The deposited Y2O3 films exhibit high purity, high crystallinity, a smooth surface, and high electronic performance.
Facile one-pot synthesis of biomass-derived activated carbon as an interlayer material for a BAC/PE/Al2O3 dual coated separator in Li–S batteries
Authors: Jo Seongho , Hong Jeong-Won , Momma Toshiyuki , Park Yiseul , Heo Junyoung , Park Jun-Woo , Ahn Seongki
Published: September 2023

Biomass-derived activated carbon synthesized by one-pot synthesis method and Al2O3 inter-layers can suppress lithium polysulfide dissolution and lithium dendrite growth during charge-discharge process.
Peptide conjugates with polyaromatic hydrocarbons can benefit the activity of catalytic RNAs
Authors: Sweeney Kevin J. , Le Tommy , Jorge Micaella Z. , Schellinger Joan G. , Leman Luke J. , Müller Ulrich F.
Published: September 2023

The study identified a catalytic RNA (ribozyme) that shows a 900-fold activity increase in the presence of a polyaromatic hydrocarbon – peptide conjugate. Similar conjugates may have aided the emergence of an RNA world.
All-redox hybrid supercapacitors based on carbon modified stacked zinc cobaltite nanosheets
Authors: Kour Simran , Kour Pawanpreet , Sharma A. L.
Published: September 2023

ZnCo2O4/AC based all-redox hybrid supercapacitor exhibited superior capacitive performance. The hybrid supercapacitors (HSC1 and HSC2) with high energy and power density can be promising options for future energy storage systems.
Constructing a CoO–CuOx heterostructure for efficient electrochemical reduction of nitrate to ammonia
Authors: Tang Yujun , Liu Sanchuan , Guo Chengyu , Liu Yonggang , Tang Zhenghua
Published: September 2023

Electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction represents a sustainable approach to produce NH3, yet developing efficient electrocatalysts to improve the sluggish reaction kinetics and the undesirable selectivity of NH3 is critical.
Unveiling dual catalysis enhancement of a pyridinium-containing Zn(ii) coordination polymer in aerobic photooxidation of organic substrates and selective photoreduction of CO2
Authors: Fang Youting , Chao Duobin
Published: September 2023

We herein report two Zn(ii)–terpyridine coordination polymers for photoredox reactions.
Continua of Support: A New Direction in the Identity-First/People-First Language Debate
Authors: Ogletree Billy T.
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

This letter expresses the opinion that identity-first language and perspectives in care are essential. It argues that all individuals' support needs should be conceptualized along continua. One such continua is support for communication. It suggests that decisions to receive supports should be left to the individual and, when necessary, invested others who can share potential benefits and costs of support/no-support decisions. Dialogue on this important issue is recommended.
Retraction Note: Experimental studies on soil compaction using BOMAG BW 226 BVC-5 vibratory roller
Authors: Breskich Vera
Published: September 2023

The Guest Editor(s) and the authors have retracted this article.
Due to an unintentional oversight, the authors failed to disclose a conflict of interest that might have affected interpretations of the work and recommendations by the peer reviewers.
The Publisher approved to the retraction.
Schiefer Hals trifft auf blutendes Zahnfleisch – Red Flags erkennen
Authors: Piekartz Harry , Zalpour Christoff
Published: September 2023

Emma ist verwundert. Seit einiger Zeit hat die junge Tennisspielerin ohne ersichtlichen Grund Nackenschmerzen, und wenn sie in den Spiegel schaut, scheint ihr Kopf schief zu stehen. Außerdem blutet ihr Zahnfleisch vermehrt. Aufgrund zielgerichteter Fragen findet ihr Therapeut schnell heraus, dass er für diesen Fall nicht der Richtige ist.
Fifty Shades of ChatGPT: Aktueller Diskussions- und Forschungsstand zu Sex und künstlicher Intelligenz
Authors: Döring Nicola
Published: September 2023

Generative künstliche Intelligenz (KI) ist ein Sammelbegriff für unterschiedliche Computeralgorithmen und -systeme, die mittels Maschinenlernen und Training auf sehr großen Datensätzen in der Lage sind, neue Inhalte wie Texte, Bilder und Musik zu kreieren. Diverse generative KI-Tools stehen der breiten Öffentlichkeit inzwischen zur Verfügung. Dabei ist ChatGPT als textgenerierende KI aktuell das bekannteste Werkzeug: Es weist rapide wachsende Nutzer*innenzahlen auf und hat seit seiner Veröffentlichung im November 2022 einen erneuten KI-Hype ausgelöst. KI-generierte Inhalte sind in vielfältiger Weise auch relevant für den Umgang mit Sexualität. Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt den aktuellen Diskussions- und Forschungsstand zu generativer KI und ihrer sexualbezogenen Nutzung dar. Dabei geht es um den Einsatz text- und bildgenerierender KI in drei zentralen Feldern: 1) Pornografie, 2) sexuelle Beziehungen und 3) Sexuelle Bildung. Chancen und Risiken sowie empirische Untersuchungsmöglichkeiten werden aufgezeigt.
Interpersonal Needs, Mental Pain, and Hopelessness in Psychiatric
Inpatients with Suicidal Ideation
Authors: Berardelli Isabella , Rogante Elena , Sarubbi Salvatore , Trocchia Maria Anna , Longhini Ludovica , Erbuto Denise , Innamorati Marco , Pompili Maurizio
Published: September 2023

Introduction Suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide and models may
help the understanding of the phenomenon and ultimately reduce its burden
through effective suicide prevention strategies. The Interpersonal Theory of
Suicide and Shneidman’s Model have tried to describe different unmet
needs related to suicidal ideation. The study aims to assess the association
between thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and suicidal ideation
in a sample of psychiatric inpatients and the mediating role of hopelessness and
mental pain in this association.

Methods 112 consecutive adult psychiatric inpatients were administered the
Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS), the Italian version of the
Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire-15-I (INQ-15-I), the Physical and
Psychological Pain Scale, and the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS).

Results Mediation models indicated a significant indirect effect of
perceived burdensomeness (with thwarted belongingness as covariates) on suicidal
ideation intensity with hopelessness as a mediator. When thwarted belongingness
(controlling for perceived burdensomeness as a covariate) was included in a
model as an independent variable, direct and indirect effects on suicidal
ideation intensity were not significant.

Conclusions Psychosocial interventions focusing on identifying and
decreasing the perception of being a burden for others and the feeling hopeless
could represent a powerful pathway for reducing suicidal ideation. Moreover, the
attention toward unmet interpersonal needs may help increase and focus clinical
discussions on risk factors, which may help engagement toward psychiatric care
and downsize the stigma related to suicide. Raising awareness toward mental
health topics is a goal of healthcare services globally.
Challenges and Management Strategies in the Nutrition of Older People with Diabetes
Authors: Farooqui Khalid , Khan Adeel Ahmad , Paul Theresa , Sirajudeen Jaseem , Khan Haseeb Ahmad , Farooqui Farah K. , Ferih Khalid RFA , Al-Yahary Hani Hassan , Haider Farrookh , Elzouki Abdel-Naser
Published: September 2023

Diabetes has increased in prevalence and is the most common chronic metabolic disease worldwide. Its incidence and prevalence have particularly increased among older adults over the last few decades. The older adult population older than 60 years is diagnosed chiefly with type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, and type 1 diabetes in a small percentage; there is also an incidence of a transient form of diabetes secondary to chronic underlying diseases or as a part of their treatment-related complications. The primary goal in managing older adults with diabetes is to maintain glycemic status against the risk of hypoglycemia and its complications. In the older adult population, the problem of polypharmacy and nutrition must be kept in mind while achieving glycemic targets and preventing diabetes complications. Few studies have highlighted the importance of nutrition in older adults with diabetes and hypoglycemia as a complication leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Many factors in the older aged groups interplay in diabetes patients. Increasing the risk of hypoglycemia and managing nutritional aspects is paramount in older adults with diabetes mellitus. This review highlights various aspects of nutritional management in older adults with diabetes based on the current evidence available in the literature. However, most dietary recommendations for older adults with diabetes are based on studies in the adult population, and further studies targeting the older adult population are needed.
Dynamical electric characteristics of a quantum paramagnet
Authors: Zvyagin A. A. , Slavin V. V. , Piryatinskaya V. G.
Published: September 2023

We consider the quantum paramagnet with the coupling between spin and electric degrees of freedom. The dynamical electric characteristics of the system under the action of the ac electric field are calculated. It is shown that for the closed system the quadrupole spin moment oscillates with the frequency of the ac field. The oscillations are modulated by the Rabi-like frequency, while the amplitude of the modulation is minimal at resonance, at which the frequency of the electric field is equal to the double energy of spin excitation of the paramagnet. The open system in the steady-state regime manifests only oscillations with the frequency of the ac field. The calculated dynamical electric susceptibility is nonzero only for nonzero dc magnetic field, and, depending on the values of the single-ion magnetic anisotropy, can manifest nonmonotonic dependence on temperature, dc electric and magnetic fields.
Micron-sized particle discrimination and classification with deep learning and electrical sensing zone technique
Authors: Cao Hongjian , Yang Ruyue , Zheng Yunzhi , Liu Runcong , Wang Xiaodong
Published: September 2023

This paper used deep learning algorithms based on the electrical sensing zone (ESZ) method to realize real-time online monitoring and discrimination of particle sorts and their size distribution in liquid–solid systems. Numerical simulations reveal that the characteristics of the temporal pulse signals generated by particles flowing through the ESZ provide the clue to discriminate particle sorts. Based on the above-mentioned results, a deep learning algorithm was used to successfully discriminate and classify micron-sized particles based on the differences in particle pulse signals. This study was conducted to train and validate the residual network (ResNet) model in the deep learning algorithm using four synthetic mixed datasets of different particle pulse signals in a similar size range and to evaluate the performance of the model. Furthermore, the trained ResNet model was applied to the in-house online micron-sized particle analyzer to monitor and discriminate four sets of different particle pulses in a similar size range at the micron level, and the accuracy of the results was above 89%. The results were compared with the measured particle pulse distribution to confirm the feasibility and accuracy of the method. A new method for real-time online monitoring and discrimination of micron-sized particles in industrial production was provided.
Global methane pledge versus carbon dioxide emission reduction
Authors: Cael B B , Goodwin P A
Published: September 2023

Methane (CH4) is a potent greenhouse gas whose contribution to anthropogenic radiative forcing of the climate system is second only to carbon dioxide (CO2). CH4 emission reduction has become critical to global climate mitigation policy, resulting most notably in the global methane pledge (GMP), pledging a 30% reduction of CH4 emissions by 2030. Methane is, however, much shorter-lived in the atmosphere than CO2, so emissions reductions may have different impacts on global warming over time. We quantify the difference over time in global annual mean surface temperature of the GMP versus the equivalent amount of CO2 emission reduction. The avoidance of CH4 emissions in the 2020s due to the GMP initially results in greater relative cooling than the avoidance of the equivalent amount of CO2 emissions over the same period, but less relative cooling after ∼2060, when almost all CH4 emitted during the 2020s has been removed from the atmosphere but much of the CO2 emitted during the 2020s remains. However, if the GMP places the world on a lower CH4 emissions trajectory after 2030, this results in a persistently and substantially greater reduction to global warming than the equivalent change in the CO2 emissions trajectory, with a maximum difference of 0.22 ± 0.06 ∘C in 2055 and relative cooling for well over a century. This equates to a large difference in avoided climate change damages if momentum in CH4 emission reduction from the GMP can be sustained after the 2020s. While the greatest reduction in warming is obtained by reducing both CH4 and CO2 emissions, our results underscore the striking global societal benefits of sustained reduction in CH4 emissions.
Bayesian phase difference estimation algorithm for direct calculation of fine structure splitting: accelerated simulation of relativistic and quantum many-body effects
Authors: Sugisaki Kenji , Prasannaa V S , Ohshima Satoshi , Katagiri Takahiro , Mochizuki Yuji , Sahoo B K , Das B P
Published: September 2023

Despite rapid progress in the development of quantum algorithms in quantum computing as well as numerical simulation methods in classical computing for atomic and molecular applications, no systematic and comprehensive electronic structure study of atomic systems that covers almost all of the elements in the periodic table using a single quantum algorithm has been reported. In this work, we address this gap by implementing the recently-proposed quantum algorithm, the Bayesian phase difference estimation (BPDE) approach, to determine fine structure splittings of a wide range of boron-like atomic systems. Since accurate estimate of fine structure splittings strongly depend on the relativistic as well as quantum many-body effects, our study can test the potential of the BPDE approach to produce results close to the experimental values. Our numerical simulations reveal that the BPDE algorithm, in the Dirac–Coulomb–Breit framework, can predict fine structure splittings of ground states of the considered systems quite precisely. We performed our simulations of relativistic and electron correlation effects on Graphics Processing Unit by utilizing NVIDIA’s cuQuantum, and observe a ×42.7 speedup as compared to the Central Processing Unit-only simulations in an 18-qubit active space.
Denture use and risk for cardiometabolic disease: observational and Mendelian randomization analyses
Authors: Liu Yunan , Qin Haiqiang , Li Tongtong , Feng Chengwu , Han Han , Cao Yaying , Su Yang , He Haihao , Yuan Changzheng , Sun Meng , Clarke Robert , Gan Wei , Tonetti Maurizio , Zong Geng
Published: September 2023

Aims

Denture use may potentially increase the risk of cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs), but the casual relevance and strength of the associations are currently unknown.

Methods and results

A total of 495 938 participants from the UK Biobank were included in the observational analyses. Linkage disequilibrium score (LDSC) regression and Mendelian randomization analyses were employed to estimate genetic correlation and the associations between the genetic liability for denture use with coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, heart failure (HF), any stroke (AS), ischaemic stroke, haemorrhagic stroke, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and related clinical risk factors. In observational analysis, denture use was associated with 14–25% higher risks of various CMDs. The LDSC analysis found that denture use showed a positive genetic correlation with CMDs (rg 0.21–0.38). Genetic liability for denture use was associated with an elevated risk of HF [odds ratio: 1.49 (1.20–1.83)] and T2D [1.11 (1.01–1.24)]. By integrating genetic summary data of denture use with the sum of decayed, missing, and filled tooth surfaces (DMFS), a clinical measure of dental caries obtained from an independent source, genetically determined denture use/DMFS was also associated with an elevated risk of AS [1.21 (1.04–1.40)]. Furthermore, genetically predicted denture use/DMFS was significantly associated with established cardiometabolic risk factors, including HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and height.

Conclusion

Our study supported potential causal associations between the genetic liability for denture use and risks for HF, AS, T2D, and related clinical risk factors. These findings may inform prevention and intervention strategies targeting dental diseases and CMDs.
Local Statistics of Random Permutations from Free Products
Authors: Puder Doron , Zimhoni Tomer
Published: September 2023

Let $\alpha $ and $\beta $ be uniformly random permutations of orders $2$ and $3$, respectively, in $S_{N}$, and consider, say, the permutation $\alpha \beta \alpha \beta ^{-1}$. How many fixed points does this random permutation have on average? The current paper studies questions of this kind and relates them to surprising topological and algebraic invariants of elements in free products of groups. Formally, let $\Gamma =G_{1}*\ldots *G_{k}$ be a free product of groups where each of $G_{1},\ldots ,G_{k}$ is either finite, finitely generated free, or an orientable hyperbolic surface group. For a fixed element $\gamma \in \Gamma $, a $\gamma $-random permutation in the symmetric group $S_{N}$ is the image of $\gamma $ through a uniformly random homomorphism $\Gamma \to S_{N}$. In this paper we study local statistics of $\gamma $-random permutations and their asymptotics as $N$ grows. We first consider $\mathbb{E}\big [\textrm{fix}_{\gamma }\big (N\big )\big ]$, the expected number of fixed points in a $\gamma $-random permutation in $S_{N}$. We show that unless $\gamma $ has finite order, the limit of $\mathbb{E}\big [\textrm{fix}_{\gamma }\big (N\big )\big ]$ as $N\to \infty $ is an integer, and is equal to the number of subgroups $H\le \Gamma $ containing $\gamma $ such that $H\cong \mathbb{Z}$ or $H\cong C_{2}*C_{2}$. Equivalently, this is the number of subgroups $H\le \Gamma $ containing $\gamma $ and having (rational) Euler characteristic zero. We also prove there is an asymptotic expansion for $\mathbb{E}\big [\textrm{fix}_{\gamma }\big (N\big )\big ]$ and determine the limit distribution of the number of fixed points as $N\to \infty $. These results are then generalized to all statistics of cycles of fixed lengths.
Fluoride Determination in Milk, Soy, and Water-Based Products Using Ion-Selective Electrode and Direct Measurement Technique: Single-Laboratory Validation, First Action 2022.05
Authors: Erney Renée M , Black Charles K
Published: September 2023

Background

The AOAC Stakeholder Panel on Infant Formula and Adult Nutritionals issued a call for methods for the determination of fluoride in infant formula. Standard Method Performance Requirement (SMPR®) 2014.016 was approved.

Objective

A single-laboratory validation (SLV) of a fluoride ion-selective electrode (F-ISE) method was completed.

Methods

Five powder samples were reconstituted, and hydrochloric acid was added to dissolve and release any bound fluoride. Samples included infant and adult nutritional products made from milk, whey, or soy, containing intact, partially hydrolyzed, or hydrolyzed proteins. Sodium citrate buffer was added to complex any interfering ions and adjust pH and ionic strength. Samples were analyzed in duplicate over 6 days using F-ISE.

Results

Results were calculated based on one of two least-squares (log fit) standard curves (0.02 to 0.1 µg/100 g or 0.1 to 2.0 µg/100 g). The LOQ for the method was determined to be 3.3 µg/100 g, which was far below the minimum analytical value of 30 µg/100 g required in the SMPR. The fluoride concentrations ranged from approximately 3 to 14 µg/100 g reconstituted powder and the intermediate precision, RSDr, ranged from 0.7 to 12.4%. Although all of these results are out of scope for the SMPR due to their low fluoride, it should be noted that the RSDr for formulas with fluoride concentrations ranging from approximately 9 to 14 µg/100 g ranged from 0.7 to 4.3%, and the RSDr for the two formulas with fluoride concentrations at or below the theoretical detection limit of the method were only approximately10 and 12.4%. Recoveries ranged from 94 to 98% for samples spiked at three levels with NIST-traceable standard solutions, meeting the SMPR.

Conclusion

The F-ISE method meets the SMPR and was adopted as a First Action Official MethodSM.

Highlights

The fluoride ion-selective electrode method presented here is affordable and easy to run. The addition of acid to the samples dissolves any minerals which may bind the fluoride.
Simultaneous Chromatographic Estimation of Vildagliptin and Dapagliflozin Using Hybrid Principles of White Analytical Chemistry and Analytical Quality by Design
Authors: Prajapati Pintu , Rana Bageshree , Pulusu Veera Shakar , Shah Shailesh
Published: September 2023

Background

The fixed-dose combination of vildagliptin (VDG) and dapagliflozin (DGZ) is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. According to the literature survey, RP-HPLC and HPTLC methods have been reported for routine analysis of VDG and DGZ. These chromatographic methods have been developed using potentially neurotoxic and teratogenic solvents, which are unsafe for human and aquatic animal life and hazardous to the environment. These types of organic solvents shall be replaced or reduced during chromatographic analysis of drugs for the safety of human and aquatic animal life and the protection of the environment. The novel white analytical chemistry (WAC) approach has been introduced, which emphasizes robust, green, user-friendly, economical, and rapid analysis of drug samples.

Objective

Hence, the WAC-based RP-HPLC method has been developed for the estimation of VDG and DGZ using lower toxic and economical solvents.

Method

The development of the RP-HPLC method includes the implementation of the analytical quality by design approach using principles of design of experiments to reduce organic waste generation and regulatory compliance of analytical method. The central composite design was applied for response surface modeling (RSM) and optimization of the RP-HPLC method. The method validation was carried out according to ICH Q2 (R1) guidelines.

Results

The fixed-dose combinations of VDG and DGZ were assayed, and results were found in compliance with their labeled claim. The published and proposed RP-HPLC methods were assessed for chromatographic analysis of VDG and DGZ using the Red-Green-Blue (RGB) model, AGREE calculator, Eco-Scale Assessment tool, GAPI software, and NEMI standards.

Conclusions

The proposed method was found to be robust, green, economical, and user-friendly for chromatographic analysis of VDG and DGZ. The proposed method can be an economical and eco-friendly analytical tool in the pharmaceutical industry for quality control and routine analysis of fixed-dose combinations of VDG and DGZ.

Highlights

Hybrid principles of WAC and analytical quality by design to RP-HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of VDG and DGZ in their fixed-dose combinations.
An investigation on the evolution of strain localization zone in metallic materials based on tensile tests and a 1-D nonlocal model
Authors: Chen Wei , Xia Lizhi , Yao Yin
Published: September 2023

Metallic materials exhibit pronounced strain localization during damage and failure, posing a challenge in damage mechanics when predicting the change in the size of the strain localization zone. In this study, uniaxial tensile tests were carried out to observe changes in the size of the strain localization zone during the loading of aluminum and low-carbon steel. The initial and final states of the two metallic materials during deformation localization were compared. The strain localization zone shrank gradually with the increase in the load, which agrees with existing electronic speckle pattern interferometry (ESPI) results. This experimental phenomenon was further analyzed theoretically. By establishing the relationship between the material characteristic length and the damage, the variation of the material characteristic length was revealed, and the form of the nonlocal kernel function with a varying characteristic length was determined. The results demonstrated that within the framework of nonlocal damage theory, the nonlocal kernel function with a varying characteristic length can be used to satisfactorily simulate the gradual shrinkage of the strain localization zone of metallic materials with the damage evolution. Therefore, this study provides an effective theoretical tool for predicting the size of the strain localization zone.
Current status and issues with the dosimetric assay of iodine-125 seed sources at medical facilities in Japan: a questionnaire-based survey
Authors: Kojima Toru , Kawamura Shinji , Otani Yuki , Hanada Takashi , Wakitani Yuichiro , Naniwa Kenta , Yorozu Atsunori , Ikushima Hitoshi , Dokiya Takushi
Published: September 2023

In conducting dosimetric assays of seed sources containing iodine-125 (125I), several major guidelines require the medical physicist to verify the source strength before patient treatment. Japanese guidelines do not mandate dosimetric assays at medical facilities, but since 2017, three incidents have occurred in Japan wherein seeds with incorrect strengths were delivered to medical facilities. Therefore, this study aimed to survey the current situation and any barriers to conducting the dosimetric assay of iodine-125 seeds at medical facilities in Japan. We conducted a questionnaire-based survey from December 2020 to April 2021, to examine whether seed assay and verification of the number of seeds delivered were being performed. We found that only 9 facilities (16%) performed seed assay and 28 (52%) verified the number of seeds. None of the facilities used an assay method that ensured traceability. The reasons for not performing an assay were divided into two categories: lack of resources and legal issues. Lack of resources included lack of instruments, lack of knowledge of assay methods, shorthand, or all of the above, whereas legal issues included the inability to resterilize iodine-125 seeds distributed in Japan and/or purchase seeds dedicated to the assay. Dosimetric assays, including simple methods, are effective in detecting calibration date errors and non-radioactive seeds. The study findings suggest that familiarization of medical personnel with these assay methods and investigation of the associated costs of labor and equipment should be recommended, as these measures will lead to medical reimbursement for quality assurance.
The Devil’s Ransom and Christology in Origen and the Cappadocians
Authors: Heinze Ky
Published: September 2023

This article identifies a relationship between third- and fourth-century Christology and the idea that Christ’s blood ransomed sinners from the devil. The thesis is that the ‘devil’s ransom’ was a natural conclusion for patristic exegetes but that those who accepted it had to navigate around the outrageous possibility that Christ’s divinity had been offered to the devil. Origen, depending on what some would call a dualistic Christology, solved the problem by saying that the ransom price (Christ’s blood or soul) had not included his divinity; but Gregory of Nazianzus, for whom Christ’s blood was in some real sense ‘the blood of God’, could not say this, which is one of the reasons that he rejected the whole idea of a ransom to the devil. In contrast, Gregory of Nyssa’s emphasis on the concealment of Christ’s divinity within the ransom prevented it from having been part of the agreed-upon price and so saved the devil’s ransom from scandal. This theological manoeuvring shows that the ransom stories should be read within a broader theological context. The recent scholarly recognition that the ransom is one among many colourful and sometimes incompatible soteriological metaphors should not lead us to ignore the degree to which patristic authors treated it with theological seriousness.
Phase II trial of concurrent sunitinib, temozolomide, and radiotherapy with adjuvant temozolomide for newly diagnosed MGMT unmethylated glioblastoma
Authors: Faye Mame Daro , Easaw Jacob , De Robles Paula , Agnihotram Raman , Torres-Vasquez Alexander , Lamonde Frederic , Petrecca Kevin , Owen Scott , Panet-Raymond Valerie , Shenouda George , Souhami Luis , Azam Maryam , Hossain Bushra , Alkass Jad , Sabri Siham , Abdulkarim Bassam
Published: September 2023

Background

The overall prognosis of glioblastoma (GBM) remains dismal, particularly for patients with unmethylated O6-methylguanine-DNA-methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter. In this phase II trial, we tested the combination of the antiangiogenic agent sunitinib with radiotherapy and temozolomide (TMZ) for newly diagnosed unmethylated MGMT GBM patients.

Methods

We enrolled 37 patients with unmethylated MGMT promoter GBM, age 18–70, and KPS ≥70. Patients received 12.5 mg of daily sunitinib for 7 days, followed by concurrent chemoradiation plus 12.5 mg sunitinib, then adjuvant TMZ. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS), and secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS), safety, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) biomarker.

Results

At a median follow-up time of 15.3 months (range: 3.1–71.3 months), the median PFS was 7.15 months (95% CI: 5.4–10.5) and the 6-month PFS was 54.0%. Median OS was 15.0 months (95% CI: 13.8–19.4) and 2-year OS rate was 17.1%. Patients receiving >3 cycles of adjuvant TMZ, undergoing surgery at progression, and presenting a post-concurrent NLR ≤6 experienced a significant improved OS with hazard ratios of 0.197 (P = .001), 0.46 (P = .049), and 0.38 (P = .021), respectively, on multivariable analysis. Age >65 years predicted for worse OS with hazard ratio of 3.92 (P = .037). Grade ≥3 thrombocytopenia occurred in 22.9%, grade ≥3 neutropenia in 20%, and grade ≥3 thromboembolic events in 14.3% of patients. There were no grade 5 events.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a potential benefit of combining sunitinib with chemoradiation in newly diagnosed GBM patients with unmethylated MGMT status and provide a strong rationale to test this combination in future studies.
MRI-guided focused ultrasound blood–brain barrier opening increases drug delivery and efficacy in a diffuse midline glioma mouse model
Authors: Martinez Payton , Nault Genna , Steiner Jenna , Wempe Michael F , Pierce Angela , Brunt Breauna , Slade Mathew , Song Jane J , Mongin Andrew , Song Kang-Ho , Ellens Nicholas , Serkova Natalie , Green Adam L , Borden Mark
Published: September 2023

Background

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is the most common and deadliest pediatric brainstem tumor and is difficult to treat with chemotherapy in part due to the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Focused ultrasound (FUS) and microbubbles (MBs) have been shown to cause BBB opening, allowing larger chemotherapeutics to enter the parenchyma. Panobinostat is an example of a promising in vitro agent in DIPG with poor clinical efficacy due to low BBB penetrance. In this study, we hypothesized that using FUS to disrupt the BBB allows higher concentrations of panobinostat to accumulate in the tumor, providing a therapeutic effect.

Methods

Mice were orthotopically injected with a patient-derived diffuse midline glioma (DMG) cell line, BT245. MRI was used to guide FUS/MB (1.5 MHz, 0.615 MPa peak negative pressure, 1 Hz pulse repetition frequency, 10-ms pulse length, 3 min treatment time)/(25 µL/kg, i.v.) targeting to the tumor location.

Results

In animals receiving panobinostat (10 mg/kg, i.p.) in combination with FUS/MB, a 3-fold increase in tumor panobinostat concentration was observed, without significant increase of the drug in the forebrain. In mice receiving 3 weekly treatments, the combination of panobinostat and FUS/MB led to a 71% reduction of tumor volumes (P = .01). Furthermore, we showed the first survival benefit from FUS/MB improved delivery increasing the mean survival from 21 to 31 days (P < .0001).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that FUS-mediated BBB disruption can increase the delivery of panobinostat to an orthotopic DMG tumor, providing a strong therapeutic effect and increased survival.
Spontaneous oesophageal perforation secondary to renal colic
Authors: Zhang Jinghong , Yang Xinglin , Jiang Hui , Liu Jihai , Wang Jiangshan , Zhu Huadong
Published: September 2023

Boerhaave syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that involves a full-thickness tear of the oesophagus. It accounts for around 15% of all cases of oesophageal perforations and is associated with up to 40% of mortality. Vomiting has been found to be associated with the development of Boerhaave syndrome. However, the aetiology of vomiting varies broadly in the available literatures from alcohol indulgence to marathon running, and from panic attack to radiotherapy for cancer. We present here an unusual case of Boerhaave syndrome where the patient developed spontaneous oesophageal perforation in the setting of renal colic.
Standardized image-based polysomnography database and deep learning algorithm for sleep-stage classification
Authors: Jeong Jaemin , Yoon Wonhyuck , Lee Jeong-Gun , Kim Dongyoung , Woo Yunhee , Kim Dong-Kyu , Shin Hyun-Woo
Published: September 2023

Study Objectives

Polysomnography (PSG) scoring is labor-intensive, subjective, and often ambiguous. Recently several deep learning (DL) models for automated sleep scoring have been developed, they are tied to a fixed amount of input channels and resolution. In this study, we constructed a standardized image-based PSG dataset in order to overcome the heterogeneity of raw signal data obtained from various PSG devices and various sleep laboratory environments.

Methods

All individually exported European data format files containing raw signals were converted into images with an annotation file, which contained the demographics, diagnoses, and sleep statistics. An image-based DL model for automatic sleep staging was developed, compared with a signal-based model, and validated in an external dataset

Results

We constructed 10253 image-based PSG datasets using a standardized format. Among these, 7745 diagnostic PSG data were used to develop our DL model. The DL model using the image dataset showed similar performance to the signal-based dataset for the same subject. The overall DL accuracy was greater than 80%, even with severe obstructive sleep apnea. Moreover, for the first time, we showed explainable DL in the field of sleep medicine as visualized key inference regions using Eigen-class activation maps. Furthermore, when a DL model for sleep scoring performs external validation, we achieved a relatively good performance.

Conclusions

Our main contribution demonstrates the availability of a standardized image-based dataset, and highlights that changing the data sampling rate or number of sensors may not require retraining, although performance decreases slightly as the number of sensors decreases.