bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPARISON OF THE CREEP THRESHOLD OF PISTON ALUMINUM ALLOYS WITH TIME
Authors: Pylyov V. O. , Linkov O. U. , Lykov S. V.
Published: September 2023

The direction of work associated with the increase and improvement of efficiency and environmental performance while maintaining the trend of increasing specific power, leads to an increase in the thermal stress of the combustion chamber parts. This leads to cases of loss of parametric reliability of the side surface of the pistons both during experimental studies and during initial operation. Such cases are characterized by the appearance of rubbing in the area of the finger hole. These facts indicate the high relevance of additional studies of the properties of aluminum piston alloys, especially at the initial stage of thermal loads of structures. The aim of the work is to obtain comparative information about the creep threshold of materials, the excess of which causes deformation of the piston side surface in time and, accordingly, the occurrence of an unpredictable decrease in the gap in the friction pair piston-cylinder. This work presents a fundamental approach, in accordance with which the creep threshold of materials in the process of their hardening is determined. The creep process of the material at the first two stages is taken into account. The creep threshold of AL25 and AK4 alloys in their initially non-hardened and hardened with time state has been studied. Dependences between the level of temperatures and thermal stresses, which determine the creep thresholds of the studied piston aluminum alloys, are established. It is shown that the hardening of the studied alloys occurs during the first 10 hours of thermal loading. It has been established that the creep limit of non-hardened AL25 and AK4 alloys is 1.5-2 times less than the creep limit of hardened materials. An approach is proposed to ensure the parametric reliability of the piston side surface, which consists in the impossibility of thermal loading of the material by a level exceeding the creep threshold of unhardened materials. The presented approach is recommended to be used taking into account the concept of guaranteed reliability of structures at the initial stages of their design. A detailed presentation of the main material of the study is presented on the example of the AK4 alloy. The presented approach to the determination of the time-varying creep threshold can be used for arbitrary materials.
SOME ISSUES OF VESSELS ENERGY EFFICIENCY ASSESSMENT IN THE INLAND SHIPPING ENERGY TRANSITION CONDITIONS
Authors: Suvorov P. , Tarasenko T. , Zalozh V.
Published: September 2023

The problem of evaluating the energy efficiency in inland navigation is being investigated. The research focuses on analyzing the current state and achieving the goals of transitioning to eco-navigation. Emphasis is placed on the importance of developing new strategies and solutions to enhance the efficiency of navigation in the context of the energy transition. Existing methodologies and approaches for measuring fuel consumption and CO2 emissions efficiency, as well as the impact of energy-efficient technologies on navigation systems, are being examined. Attention is given to the use of alternative fuels and speed optimization as means of reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Special attention is devoted to Danube navigation, where large-tonnage convoys are used for cargo transportation. The technological peculiarities of this type of transport and navigation conditions that can affect vessel energy efficiency are analyzed. Measures are proposed to improve the efficiency of navigation. The authors suggest a new approach to forming an energy efficiency index that takes into account the specifics of inland navigation, specifically large-tonnage convoys and navigation conditions. This approach allows determining the level of vessel energy efficiency in the context of the energy transition, beyond the conversion to CO2 emissions alone. It is noted that inadequate navigation conditions can impact vessel energy efficiency, particularly by increasing water resistance and the need for higher power for propulsion. The authors explore the possibility of applying new technologies and solutions that can help reduce fuel consumption and enhance vessel energy efficiency under such conditions, and they propose new approaches to measuring and assessing the energy efficiency of navigation. As a result of the conducted research, an approach to transforming the form of the energy efficiency index for inland navigation vessels is proposed, which avoids limitations associated with measuring only CO2 emissions and allows for a comprehensive assessment of vessel energy efficiency. The proposed approach will contribute to a more accurate evaluation and comparison of different vessels in the context of the energy transition, considering their performance and fuel costs under real navigation conditions. The research findings can be valuable for scientists and experts in the field of inland navigation in developing effective strategies and policies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving vessel energy efficiency.
Может ли звук упрочнять металлы и сплавы?
Authors: Стеценко В. Ю.
Published: September 2023

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Investigation of the effect of ultrasonic treatment during crystallization on the structure and properties of deformable aluminum alloys
Authors: Rovin S. L. , Dikun A. O.
Published: September 2023

The article presents the methodology and results of the study of the effect of ultrasonic treatment of the melt of deformable aluminum alloys during crystallization on the structure and properties of the formed ingots: the dependence of the grain score, porosity, size and distribution of inclusions of intermetallides on the amplitude of ultrasound radiation and the frequency of vibrations, as well as the distance to the waveguide. In addition, data on the analysis of the transformation of iron‑containing phases (α‑AlFeSi and β‑AlFeSi) under the action of ultrasound and dissolution of titanium waveguides during ultrasonic treatment of aluminum melt are presented.
Explorando a Percepção Socioambiental dos Alunos sobre a Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Tubarão e Complexo Lagunar
Authors: Flores Nícolas
Published: September 2023

Este plano de aula foi desenvolvido para alunos do 2º ano do Ensino Médio, com o objetivo de compreender a percepção dos estudantes sobre as mudanças na Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Tubarão e Complexo Lagunar, bem como promover uma consciência socioambiental mais profunda. A metodologia engloba 12 aulas, com foco em estratégias ativas como Trabalho em Pequenos Grupos, pesquisa bibliográfica, discussões, questionamentos e mapas conceituais.

Os objetivos específicos incluem avaliar a percepção socioambiental dos alunos, identificar fontes de informação sobre a crise socioambiental, analisar relações entre essa crise e a Bacia Hidrográfica, compreender o papel da escola e sociedade na sustentabilidade e gerar aspectos para a Educação Ambiental. A avaliação será formativa e contínua, levando em consideração a participação, comportamento, entrega de trabalhos individuais e em grupo, criatividade e avaliação escrita.

Serão utilizados recursos como laboratório de informática ou biblioteca, além de materiais recicláveis para a construção de maquetes. A estrutura do plano busca fomentar o pensamento crítico, a interação e a participação ativa dos alunos, permitindo-lhes explorar e compreender as complexidades da Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Tubarão e Complexo Lagunar. As referências utilizadas incluem a Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC) e obras que respaldam as estratégias didáticas propostas.
Preparedness of Nigerian Medical Students for an Era of Precision Medicine – A Cross-sectional Survey in Lagos, Nigeria.
Authors: Ogamba Chibuzor F. , Roberts Alero A. , Ajudua Sharon C. , Akinwale Mosopefoluwa O. , Jeje Fuhad M. , Ibe Festus O. , Afolayan Moses M. , Kuyinu Yetunde A.
Published: September 2023

Background
The increasing advances in precision medicine in Nigeria suggest improving genomics education and competency among healthcare practitioners to facilitate clinical translation. Due to the scarcity of research in this area, this study aimed to assess Nigerian medical students' preparedness to integrate precision medicine into their clinical practice.
Methods
This was an institution-based cross-sectional study of 300 medicine and surgery students in their clinical years attending the two fully accredited colleges of medicine in Lagos, Nigeria, between April and October 2022 using an adapted tool administered via Google Forms. The survey assessed awareness, perceived knowledge, ability and attitudes towards precision medicine, ethical concerns, and perceptions about their education in precision medicine. Multivariate linear regression models were used to assess factors associated with students’ perceived knowledge, ability and attitudes.
Results
Awareness of genomic medicine terminology was high (92.0%). Respondents had above-average median perceived knowledge, ability and attitude scores. Higher level in medical school was independently associated with lower perceived knowledge (ptrend = 0.003) and ability (ptrend = 0.005) scores, and perceived knowledge score was independently associated with a higher perceived ability score (β: 0.76 95%CI: 0.67, 0.84; p<0.001). Attitude scores significantly increased with increasing medical school year (ptrend = 0.04). The respondents mostly indicated concerns about government and corporate bodies' misuse of genomic data (35.7%) and the widening of socioeconomic disparities (34.0%). Although 65.0% of the respondents thought it important to learn about precision medicine, only 11.3% felt that their education had adequately prepared them for precision medicine, knew who to ask questions regarding genomic testing (10.7%) and felt their professors had encouraged the use of precision medicine (10.3%).
Conclusion
Our findings highlight gaps in preparedness for precision medicine and a need to improve precision medicine education among Nigerian medical students.
Confusion and contamination of 8.2 ka cold climate records by the Storegga tsunami
Authors: Bondevik Stein , Risebrobakken Bjørg , Gibbons Steven , Rasmussen Tine , Løvholt Finn
Published: September 2023

Since the end of the last ice age, no cold snap rivals the one dated to 8200 years ago. Its oceanic response has been reconstructed in part from sediments in the Norwegian Sea and North Sea. Here we show that these sediments have been reworked by currents generated by the Storegga tsunami, dated to the coldest decades of the 8.2 ka event. From a new simulation of the Storegga tsunami we calculated the maximum flow velocity to be 2–5 m/s on the shelf offshore western Norway and in the shallower parts of the North Sea, and up to about 1 m/s down to a water depth of 1000 m. We re-investigated sediment core MD95-2011, from which a large and abrupt 8.2 ka cooling had been inferred, and found the cold-water foraminifera to be recycled and 11,000 years of age. Oxygen isotopes of the recycled foraminifera and the content of sand grains, thought to be dropped from ice bergs, might have led to an interpretation of a too large and dramatic climate cooling. Our simulations imply that large parts of the sea floor in the North Sea and Norwegian Sea might have been reworked by currents during the Storegga tsunami.
NAPE-PLD in the ventral tegmental area regulates reward events, feeding and energy homeostasis.
Authors: Castel Julien , Li Guangping , Oriane Onimus , Leishman Emma , Cani Patrice D. , Bradshaw Heather , Mackie Ken , Everard Amandine , Luquet Serge , Gangarossa Giuseppe
Published: September 2023

The N-acyl phosphatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD) catalyzes the production of N-acylethanolamines (NAEs), a family of endogenous bioactive lipids, which are involved in various biological processes ranging from neuronal functions to energy homeostasis and feeding behaviors. Reward-dependent behaviors depend on dopamine (DA) transmission between the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the nucleus accumbens (NAc), which conveys reward-values and scales reinforced behaviors. However, whether and how NAPE-PLD may contribute to the regulation of feeding and reward-dependent behaviors has not yet been investigated. This biological question is of paramount importance since NAEs are altered in obesity and metabolic disorders.
Here, we show that transcriptomic meta-analysis highlights a potential role for NAPE-PLD within the VTA®NAc circuit. Using brain-specific invalidation approaches, we report that the integrity of NAPE-PLD is required for the proper homeostasis of NAEs within the midbrain VTA and it affects food-reward behaviors. Moreover, region-specific knock-down of NAPE-PLD in the VTA enhanced food-reward seeking and reinforced behaviors, which were associated with increased in vivo DA release dynamics in response to both food and non-food-related rewards together with heightened tropism towards food consumption. Furthermore, midbrain knock-down of NAPE-PLD, which increased energy expenditure and adapted nutrient partitioning, elicited a relative protection against high-fat diet-mediated body fat gain and obesity-associated metabolic features.
In conclusion, these findings reveal a new key role of VTA NAPE-PLD in shaping DA-dependent events, feeding behaviors and energy homeostasis, thus providing new insights on the regulation of body metabolism.
Modification of AJCC TNM staging for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with hepatolithiasis: a multi-institutional retrospective study
Authors: He Gui-Xiang , Liao Cheng-Yu , Lai Jian-Lin , Wu Di-Hang , Hu Jian-Fei , Li Ge , Wang Liang , Lin Tian-Sheng , Tian Yi-Feng , Huang Long , Chen Shi
Published: September 2023

Background
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) with stones has a worse long-term prognosis than without stones. The stone factor is not considered in the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM staging system 8th edition. This research aimed to determine whether the presence of stones was associated with T, N, and M staging and to develop a revised staging approach for a more precise staging of ICC patients who also presented with stones.
Methods
625 ICC patients who had radical resection at three tertiary institutions in Fujian Province, China, between 2012 and 2022 were retrospectively evaluated, and were divided into stone (n = 270) and non-stone groups (n = 355) based on whether combined with hepatolithiasis. In the stone group, overall survival (OS) data was used to develop a modified AJCC staging system called the hepatolithiasis TNM staging system (hlTNM). Both hlTNM and 8th edition AJCC staging were evaluated for their prognostic value in stone group through three-items multivariate analyses and estimated area under ROC curve (AUC).
Results
Postoperative survival was worse in stone group at the same TNM stage. Three-items multivariate analyses illustrated that hlTNM staging was more appropriate for prognostic assessment. In stone group, hlTNM staging system (AUC = 0.892) outperformed the AJCC staging system (AUC = 0.872) in predicting the 3-year OS. hlTNM staging method regularly outperformed the AJCC staging approach regarding time-dependent ROC curves, demonstrating more precise prognostic stratification.
Conclusion
hlTNM staging is more effective in directing physicians’ management of ICC patients with stones and increases the accuracy of OS prediction.
Leisure Activities of Adolescents - Associations with Well-Being and Parental Leisure Engagement
Authors: Wanka Friederike , Vogel Mandy , Grafe Nico , Aßmann Manuela , Kiess Wieland , Poulain Tanja
Published: September 2023

Background
Leisure activities are substantial for adolescents’ development and are influenced by various factors. The present study aimed to investigate the associations between leisure activities and well-being, behavioral difficulties, and parental leisure time engagement.
Methods
A total of 959 adolescents aged 10 to 18 years were included in the present study. We assessed the adolescents’ leisure activities (e.g., family time, meeting friends, different media, organized sports), well-being (Kidscreen-27) and behavioral difficulties (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire SDQ) using questionnaires. We applied linear and generalized mixed-effect models to assess associations, adjusting for age group, sex, and SES.
Results
The associations between leisure activities and well-being differed depending on the type of activity. Active leisure (e.g., family time, meeting friends, café visits, visiting a museum/art exhibition/cinema, visiting a concert/opera, voluntary work, physical activity) was associated with better well-being, especially physical well-being, and fewer behavioral difficulties. Passive leisure activities (e.g., screen time, chilling), on the contrary, were associated with lower well-being and more behavioral difficulties. We also observed that adolescents reported greater participation in the described leisure activities if their parents did so. With a few exceptions, leisure behavior did not change during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion
Our findings underline the importance of leisure activities, their potential impact on adolescents’ well-being and the role parents might play in shaping their children’s leisure time. Therefore, we need to promote the active leisure behavior of young people and their parents.
Methylomic signature of current cannabis use in two first-episode psychosis cohorts
Authors: Dempster Emma , Wong Chloe , Burrage Joe , Hannon Eilis , Quattrone Diego , Giulia Trotta , Rodriguez Victoria , Spinazzola Edoardo , Tripoli Giada , Austin-Zimmerman Isabelle , Li Z , Gayer-Anderson Charlotte , Freeman Tom , Johnson Emma , Jongsma Hannah , Simona Stilo , Cascia Caterina La , Ferraro Laura , Barbera Daniele La , Lasalvia Antonio , Tosato Sarah , Tarricone Ilaria , D’Andrea Giuseppe , Galatolo Michela , Tortelli Andrea , Arango Celso , Jones Peter , Pompili Maurizio , Selten Jean-Paul , de Haan Lieuwe , Menezes Paulo , Del-Ben Cristina Marta , Santos José , Arrojo Manuel , Bobes Julio , Sanjuan Julio , Bernardo Miquel , Breen Gerome , Mondelli Valeria , Dazzan Paola , Iyegbe Conrad , Vassos Evangelos , Morgan Craig , Mukherjee Diptendu , Os Jim van , Rutten Bart , O'Donovan Michael , Sham Pak , Mill Jonathan , Murray Robin , Forti Marta di , Alameda Luis
Published: September 2023

The rising prevalence and legalization of cannabis worldwide have underscored the need for a comprehensive understanding of its biological impact, particularly on mental health. Epigenetic mechanisms, specifically DNA methylation, have gained increasing recognition as vital factors in the interplay between risk factors and mental health. This study aimed to explore the effects of current cannabis use and potency on DNA methylation in two independent cohorts of individuals experiencing first-episode psychosis (FEP) compared to control subjects. The combined sample consisted of 682 participants (cannabis users (n = 188) and never users (n = 494)). DNA methylation profiles were generated on blood-derived DNA samples using the Illumina DNA methylation array platform. Each cohort was analysed individually and then meta-analysed. We identified one CpG site (cg11669285) in the CAVIN1 gene that showed differential methylation with current cannabis use, surpassing the array-wide significance threshold, and independent of the tobacco-related epigenetic signature. Furthermore, a CpG site localized in the MCU gene (cg11669285) achieved array-wide significance in the analysis of high-potency cannabis use. Pathway and regional analyses identified cannabis-related epigenetic deviations in genes linked to immune and mitochondrial function, both of which are known to be influenced by cannabinoids. Notably, the analyses focused on first-onset psychoses identified differential methylation at nominal significance in a CpG site situated in the TRPV2 gene, which is known to be activated by cannabinoids. Overall, these findings contribute to our understanding of the epigenetic consequences of current cannabis use in the general population and in first-episode psychosis and highlight potential molecular pathways affected by cannabis exposure.
Prevalence and residual risk of HIV in volunteer blood donors of Zhejiang Province, China from 2018 to 2022
Authors: Zhu Hong , Ding Wei , Han Wenjuan , Zheng Xiaofan , Hu Yiqing , Dong Jie , Wu Yaling , Wu Danxiao , Liu Jinghui , Zhu Faming
Published: September 2023

Background: Blood safety levels have been significantly improved since nucleic acid amplification technology (NAT) testing for blood donors was carried out, but the residual risk of transfusion transmission infections still exists. Here, the prevalence of HIV and residual risk of the HIV transmission in volunteer blood donors of Zhejiang Province, China for five years after NAT implementation were evaluated.
Materials and methods：All specimens and information were collected from voluntary unpaid donors at all blood services in Zhejiang Province,China from January 2018 to December 2022. HIV antibody/antigen and HIV RNA were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and NAT. The residual risk of the HIV transmission was calculated using the incidence/window period model.
Results: A total of 3,375,678 voluntary blood donors were detected, and the HIV prevalence was 9.92/100000. The HIV prevalence of blood donors in twelve blood services in Zhejiang Province were 6.11, 6.98, 7.45, 8.21, 8.36, 8.94, 9.04, 9.66, 9.73, 10.22, 11.80 and 12.47 per 100000 donors, respectively, and the difference of all blood services was not statistically significant (P>0.05).The HIV prevalence of males (15.49/100,000) was significantly higher than that of females (1.95/100,000) (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in HIV prevalence among blood donors of all different age groups( P>0.05), but the HIV prevalence in 26 to 35 age group and 18 to 25 age group were significantly higher than that in 36 to 45 age group( P<0.05).The difference in HIV prevalence between the first-time blood donors (13.65/100,000) and repeat blood donors(6.78/100,000) was statistically significant( P<0.05). From 2018 to 2022, the HIV residual risk in blood transfusion transmission was 0.266/100000.
Conclusion: The prevalence of HIV among blood donors in Zhejiang Province, China is associated with age, gender and times of blood donation. The HIV residual risk in blood transfusion transmission is low in Zhejiang Province and increasing the rate of repeat blood donors is beneficial to improve blood safety.
Association of diet and sunshine exposure with inflammatory bowel disease: a multicentered case-control study using propensity matching analysis in China
Authors: Chu Xiaotian , Chen Xuanfu , Zhang Huimin , Wang Yufang , Guo Hong , Chen Yan , Liu Xiaowei , Zhu Zhenhua , He Yao , Ding Xueli , Wang Qunying , Zheng Changqing , Cao Xiaocang , Yang Hong , Qian Jiaming
Published: September 2023

The association of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) emergence and several environmental factors remained unclear, especially in Chinese. The aim is to explore the association of different environmental factors with IBD risk. This is a multicentered case-control study including 11 hospitals from 11 cities in China. Totally 1230 subjects were enrolled consecutively. IBD patients and healthy controls (HC) were matched at a 1:1 ratio using propensity-score matching (PSM) with a caliper value of 0.02. Questionnaires of different environmental factors were collected. In multivariate conditional logistics regression analyses, for both CD and UC, proper amount of alcohol and milk consumption, and fresh fruit every day were protective factors, while egg and chocolate were risk factors. Sunshine exposure for over 25% of a day was a protective factor only in CD. In eastern regions of China, CD patients tended to consume more egg and have less sunshine exposure and UC patients had more chocolate. IBD patients from urban regions or with higher per capita monthly income consumed more fruit, egg and chocolate. The difference in diet of different population highlights the importance of a balanced diet and different prevention strategy in different regions.
“No PBL is better than online PBL”: Qualitative exploration regarding the perceived impact of online problem-based learning on nursing and medical students’ learning during COVID-I9 lockdown
Authors: Adongo Pamella R , Epuitai Joshua , Mpagi Joseph Luwaga , Nekaka Rebecca , Lyagoba Ivan , Odula Joseph , Oboth Paul
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic and its restrictions increased the adoption of online learning even in low-income countries. The adoption of online teaching methods may have affected teaching and learning, particularly in settings where it was used for the first time. This study was conducted to explore the perceptions of medical and nursing students regarding the impact of online delivery of problem-based learning (PBL) on students learning and academic performance during COVID-19 imposed restrictions.

Methods and materials

This was a qualitative study among fourth and fifth-year nursing and medical undergraduate students at Busitema University Faculty of Health Sciences. Four focused group discussions were conducted and the interviews focused on students’ perceptions, experiences, and attitudes toward the PBL process conducted online and its likely impact on their learning. Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis was used for qualitative data analysis.
Results
Four themes were identified that represented perceptions of online PBL on learning: transition to online learning; perceived benefits of online learning; limited learning and poor performance; and lost soft and practical skills. During the initial stages of introduction to online PBL learning, students transitioning to online had to adapt and familiarize themselves with online learning following the introduction of online learning. Students perceived that learning was less online compared to face-to-face sessions because of reduced learner engagement, concentration, motivation, peer-to-peer learning, and limited opportunities for practical sessions. Online learning was thought to increase students’ workload in the form of a number of assessments which was thought to reduce learning. Online tutorials were perceived to reduce the acquisition of soft skills like confidence, communication, leadership, and practical or clinical skills. While learning was thought to be less during online teaching, it was noted to allow continued learning during the lockdown, to be flexible, enhance self-drive and opportunity for work, solve infrastructure problems, and protect them from COVID-19 infection
Conclusion
Generally, online learning enabled continuity and flexibility of learning. However, online PBL learning was perceived to be less engaging compared to traditional classroom-based PBL. Online PBL was seen to deter students from acquiring critical generic and clinical skills inherently found in traditional PBL. Innovative pedagogical measures should be adopted to avoid reduced learning noted in the online teaching methods to ensure the successful adoption of online teaching and learning in the post-COVID-19 era.
Clinical and Echocardiographic Characteristics of Pediatric Infective Endocarditis and Predictors of Embolic Events: Experience from A Tertiary Center
Authors: Xu Liyuan , Zhang Hongju , Sun Yan , Li Jingya , Yang Jiao , Ma Ning
Published: September 2023

Background
Pediatric infective endocarditis (IE) is uncommon but associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to identify the clinical and echocardiographic characteristics of IE in children and predictors of embolic events during hospitalization.
Methods
We identified children diagnosed with IE between January 2010 and December 2021 in our hospital. Demographic data, symptoms, underlying microorganisms, echocardiographic characteristics, underlying heart disease (HD), and outcome were documented.
Results
Ninety children were enrolled, and 60% had underlying HD. The most common causative microbial species was Staphylococcus aureus, which was more likely in non-HD patients than in HD patients (p = 0.030). Echocardiography detected vegetations in 88 cases, involving the left heart in 41 patients, the right heart in 45 patients, and both sides in two patients. Vegetations were more often detected in the right heart in HD patients and more common in the left heart in non-HD patients (p < 0.001). Embolic events (EEs) occurred in 25 patients, more often seen in non-HD patients (44.4% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.004). Vegetations disappeared in nine patients, while four died during hospitalization. Logistic regression analysis showed that the absence of HD and the presence of moderate or severe valvular dysfunction independently predicted EEs.
Conclusions
IE more often involved the left heart in non-HD patients and the right heart in HD patients. We should pay more attention to non-HD patients and those with valvular dysfunction, as they have a higher risk of EEs.
Precise Determination of Molecular Adsorption Geometries by Room Temperature Non-Contact Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Brown Timothy , Blowey Philip , Sweetman Adam
Published: September 2023

High resolution force measurements of molecules on surfaces, in non-contact atomic force microscopy, are often only performed at cryogenic temperatures, due to needing a highly stable system, and a passivated probe tip (typically via CO-functionalisation). Here we show for the first time, a reliable protocol for acquiring three-dimensional force map data over both single organic molecules and assembled islands of molecules, at room temperature. Isolated cobalt phthalocyanine and islands of C60 are characterised with submolecular resolution, on a passivated silicon substrate (B:Si(111)-(√3×√3)R30°). Geometries of cobalt phthalocyanine are determined to a ∼10 pm accuracy. For the C60, the protocol is sufficiently robust that areas spanning 10nm×10nm are mapped, despite the difficulties of room temperature operation. These results provide a proof-of-concept for gathering high-resolution three-dimensional force maps of networks of complex, non-planar molecules on surfaces, in conditions more analogous to real-world application.
Functional Characterization of Cooperating MGA Mutations in RUNX1::RUNX1T1 Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Klco Jeffery , III Melvin Thomas , Qi Wenqing , Walsh Michael , Ma Jing , Westover Tamara , Abdelhamed Sherif , Ezzell Lauren , Rolle Chandra , Xiong Emily , Rosikiewicz Wojciech , Xu Beisi , Pruett-Miller Shondra , Loughran Allister , Janke Laura
Published: September 2023

MGA (Max-gene associated) is a dual-specificity transcription factor that negatively regulates MYC-target genes to inhibit proliferation and promote differentiation. Loss-of-function mutations in MGA have been commonly identified in several hematological neoplasms, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with RUNX1::RUNX1T1, however, very little is known about the impact of these MGA alterations on normal hematopoiesis or disease progression. We show that representative MGA mutations identified in patient samples abolish protein-protein interactions and transcriptional activity. Using a series of human and mouse model systems, including a newly developed conditional knock-out mouse strain, we demonstrate that loss of MGA results in upregulation of MYC and E2F targets, cell cycle genes, mTOR signaling, and oxidative phosphorylation in normal hematopoietic cells, leading to enhanced proliferation. The loss of MGA induces an open chromatin state at promotors of genes involved in cell cycle and proliferation. RUNX1::RUNX1T1 expression in Mga-deficient murine hematopoietic cells leads to a more aggressive AML with a significantly shortened latency. These data show that MGA regulates multiple pro-proliferative pathways in hematopoietic cells and cooperates with the RUNX1::RUNX1T1 fusion oncoprotein to enhance leukemogenesis.
Comparative molecular profiling of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma of the head versus body/tail reveals differences in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME)
Authors: Weinberg Benjamin , Abdelrahim Maen , Esmail Abdullah , Kasi Anup , Esnaola Nestor F. , Xiu Joanne Joanne , Baca Yasmine
Published: September 2023

Background
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) of the head (H) and body/tail (B/T) differ in embryonic origin, cell composition, blood supply, lymphatic and venous drainage, and innervation. We aimed to compare the molecular and tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) profiles of PDAC of the H vs. B/T.
Methods
A total of 3499 PDAC samples were analyzed via next-generation sequencing (NGS) of RNA (whole transcriptome, NovaSeq), DNA (NextSeq, 592 genes or NovaSeq, whole exome sequencing), and immunohistochemistry (Caris Life Sciences, Phoenix, AZ). Significance was determined as p values adjusted for multiple corrections (q) of < 0.05.
Results
Anatomic subsites of PDAC tumors were grouped by primary tumor sites into H (N = 2058) or B/T (N = 1384). There were significantly more metastatic tumors profiled from B/T vs. H (57% vs. 44%, p < 0.001). KRAS mutations (93.8% vs. 90.2%), genomic loss of heterozygosity (12.7% vs. 9.1%), and several copy number alterations (FGF3, FGF4, FGF19, CCND1, ZNF703, FLT4, MUTYH, TNFRS14) trended higher in B/T when compared to H (p < 0.05 but q > 0.05). Expression analysis of IO-related genes showed significantly higher expression of CTLA4 and PDCD1 in H (q < 0.05, fold change 1.2 and 1.3) and IDO1 and PDCD1LG2 expression trended higher in B/T (p < 0.05, fold change 0.95).
Conclusions
To our knowledge, this is one of the largest cohorts of PDAC tumors subjected to broad molecular profiling. Differences in IO-related gene expression and TIME cell distribution suggest that response to IO therapies may differ in PDAC arising from H vs B/T. Subtle differences in the genomic profiles of H vs. B/T tumors were observed.
Analyzing a planet that crosses a small comet’s fragment chain
Authors: Rafizadeh Hamid
Published: September 2023

This article studies a planet whose orbit intersects the orbit of a small comet’s fragment chain. A simple, general, multi-generational model of comet fragmentation and fragment separation is developed, yielding the fragment distribution for each generation of the comet’s fragment chain. The fragment chain is used in analysis of the planet’s chain crossing and fragment capture. Simulating the chain crossing and fragment capture, the probability distributions for the chain crossing and fragment capture are calculated. The average probability for the planet crossing the fragment chain of a small, long period comet is 0.43 × 10− 3 per perihelion passage. The average probability for the planet crossing the fragment chain of a small, short period comet is 1.01 × 10− 3 per perihelion passage. For both, the average probability of fragment capture in chain crossing is 5.84 × 10− 2 per crossing. The probabilities calculated for the planet crossing a fragment chain and capturing fragments are higher than the planet-comet collision probability of the order of 10− 9 per perihelion passage for both the short period and long period comets, thus making chain crossing and fragment capture more probable planetary events.
Far-reaching Effects of Tyrosine64 Phosphorylation on Ras Revealed with BeF3– Complexes
Authors: Jin Yi , Baumann Patrick
Published: September 2023

Tyrosine phosphorylation on Ras by Src kinase is known to uncouple Ras from upstream regulation and downstream communication. However, the mechanisms by which phosphorylation modulates these interactions have not been detailed. Here, the major mono-phosphorylation level on tyrosine64 is quantified by 31P NMR and mutagenesis. Crystal structures of unphosphorylated and tyrosine64-phosphorylated Ras in complex with a BeF3− ground state analogue reveal “closed” Ras conformations very different from those of the “open” conformations previously observed for non-hydrolysable GTP analogue structures of Ras. They deliver new mechanistic and conformational insights into intrinsic GTP hydrolysis. Phosphorylation of tyrosine64 delivers conformational changes distant from the active site, showing why phosphorylated Ras has reduced affinity to its effector Raf. 19F NMR provides evidence for changes in the intrinsic GTPase and nucleotide exchange rate and identifies the concurrent presence of a major "closed" conformation alongside a minor yet functionally important "open" conformation at the ground state of Ras. This study expands the application of metal fluoride complexes in revealing major and minor conformational changes of dynamic and modified Ras proteins
Does the digital divide reduce the probability of formal employment for workers？ --Empirical evidence based on CHFS microdata
Authors: Wang Qiankun , Zhang Chunhua , Hou Guanyu
Published: September 2023

The digital economy, as an emergent economic construct, has progressively become a major driver for employment promotion. Nevertheless, as the digital economy evolves, the "digital divide" has subtly begun to sway individuals' employment decisions. Utilizing China Household Financial Survey (CHFS) data and the Probit model, this paper embarks on an empirical exploration of the digital divide's impact on workers' employment decision-making behavior. The mechanism of the digital divide is scrutinized by incorporating aspects of information accessibility and risk tolerance. The study unveils that: (1) the digital divide markedly diminishes the likelihood of workers securing formal employment; (2) the digital divide can deter workers from venturing into formal employment channels by curbing their access to information and risk tolerance; (3) this deterrent effect is more pronounced among workers in central and western regions, non-metropolitan cities, rural areas, and those burdened with high household indebtedness; (4) the digital divide also significantly undermines workers' subjective well-being. The findings bear significant theoretical and practical implications for labor market improvement and the enhancement of workers' employment quality.
Tuina on knee pain and physical function for patients with mild-moderate knee osteoarthritis in Shanghai: protocol for a multicenter, assessor-blinded, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ma Jianwen , Guo Guangxin , Yue Hongyu , Xie Chaoqun , Xie Fangfang , Chen Ziying , Gu Yuanjia , Zhang Shuaipan , Fang Min , Yao Fei
Published: September 2023

Background
Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is one of the most common osteoarthritis, imposing substantial economic and medical burdens on both individuals and society. In China, Tuina has been chosen as a complementary and alternative therapy to relieve symptoms of knee pain and dysfunction. However, current evidence is insufficient to support the efficacy of Tuina therapy in addressing knee pain and improving physical function. The purpose of this trial was to investigate the efficacy of Tuina compared to celecoxib, by observing changes in outcome measures and assessing its level of effectiveness as an alternative treatment.
Methods and analysis
A total of 360 patients with KOA aged between 40 and 70 years and classified as Kellgren and Lawrence Grade I-II will be recruited from eight sub-central hospitals. The participants will be randomly assigned to either the treatment group (Tuina, Biw) or the control group (Celecoxib, Qd), with both groups undergoing a 4-week intervention phase followed by an 8-week follow-up phase. The primary outcome is the change of Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain subscale at week 4 compared with baseline. Secondary outcomes including WOMAC stiffness and function subscales, WOMAC total score, 36-item short form health survey (SF-36), timed up and go test (TUG), short physical performance battery (SPPB), gait analysis parameters, and pain medication records will be assessed at weeks 4, 8, and 12. Any adverse events occurring during the trial will be promptly recorded.
Discussion
This multicenter randomized trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Tuina on relieving pain and increasing physical function of KOA patients. This protocol, if proven effective, will present more compelling evidence supporting the value of Tuina and contribute to providing a promising alternative therapy for patients with mild-moderate KOA.
Trial registration number: This trial has been registered in the China Clinical Trials Registry (registration number: ChiCTR2300069416).
Biogeochemical behavior, health risk assessment and source identification of antimony and arsenic in soil from a legacy antimony smelter in Gansu, Northwest China
Authors: Li Qiang , Cao Ying , Meng Tian , He Liansheng , Zhang Sen
Published: September 2023

The study of the contamination patterns and characteristics of Sb and As in the soils of the legacy contaminated sites of antimony smelters is important for the redevelopment and utilization of industrial sites. In this study, 13 heavy metals were determined in the soil and plants of an antimony smelter in Gansu Province to study the biogeochemical behavior, health risk, and pollution source. The results showed that Nemerow index of Sb (728) exceeded the value of As (43.6) by 17.6 times, and the average Igeo values of Sb and As were 10.1 and 1.97, respectively, categorized as extremely and moderately contaminated classes. Compared to As, Sb had a larger proportion of oxidizable fraction and a smaller proportion of reducible fraction. Even though the bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) for As were about 10 times higher than those for Sb, the accumulation of Sb in plants was not negligible. For the USEPA model, the mean HQ values of As by oral ingestion, dermal absorption, and inhalation accounted for 99.0%, 0.97%, and 0.0002% of the total, and 54.2%, 45.3%, and 0.51% for MEEPRC model. There were significant positive correlations between Sb, As, Zn, Se, Cd, and Ba (P < 0.05). The results of the source identification analysis revealed that antimony smelting, solid waste pollution and natural origin were identified as the main pollution sources. The PCA and PMF methods differed by more than 20% in the analysis of the contribution of antimony smelting activities and solid waste pollution sources.
Meta-analysis of Licorice Heart-draining Decoction combined with western medicine in the treatment of oral ulcers after chemotherapy for malignant tumors
Authors: Zihan Wang , Meng Dong , Shihao Wang , Mengyu Dou , Yongqi Kang , Wenchen Sun , Wenhao Liu , Yuqiu Li
Published: September 2023

OBJECTIVE: To systematically evaluate the clinical efficacy of Licorice Heart-draining Decoction(LHDD) plus reduction combined with western medicine in the treatment of oral ulcer (OU) after chemotherapy for malignant tumors.
Methods: A computerized search of Chinese and English databases, such as CNKI, Wanfang database, Wipro database , Pubmed Centeral, Dutch Medical Abstracts Database , Cochrane Library, was performed to retrieve all the related clinical Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted, and valid data were extracted after literature screening and quality evaluation, and Meta-analysis was performed based on RevMan 5.3 software.
RESULTS: Nine papers with a total of 1421 patients were included in the RCTs, and the results of Meta-analysis showed that the clinical efficacy rate of LHDD combined with conventional western medicines in the treatment of oral ulcers of malignant tumors treated with chemotherapy in the experimental group was higher than that of the control group [OR=4.20, 95% CI (2.90,6.07), Z=7.63, P<0.01]. The recurrence rate was lower in the test group than in the control group [OR=0.34, 95% CI (0.20, 0.56), Z=4.16, P<0.01].
CONCLUSION: The clinical efficacy of LHDD combined with conventional western drugs in treating OU after chemotherapy for malignant tumors is better than that of using western drugs alone.
Experimental assessment of lipid yield and phycoremediation potential of five indigenous microalgae under various nutrient regimes (N:P) in BBM
Authors: Joseph Theja , Ray Joseph George
Published: September 2023

The success of the emerging algal fuel industry depends on identifying high-quality species and standardization of their culture protocols for lipid yield and nutrient removal efficiency. The primary objective of the study was to determine the phycoremediation cum lipid-rich biomass production potential of five green microalgae isolated from bloomed freshwaters of Kerala. Three experiments were carried out under various nitrogen and phosphorus content with different N:P. The first experiment included four different treatment levels of N, the second experiment included four different treatment levels of P, and the third experiment had two different treatment levels of N and P together in BBM. Regular BBM was the control. The parameters measured were biomass and lipid productivity, fatty acid composition, biodiesel properties, Nitrogen and Phosphorus removal rate, and efficiency. Chlorolobion braunii appeared productive in N-rich media with high N:P, whereas Monoraphidium contortum in P-rich media with low N:P. Among the five species tested, the latter shows the highest lipid yield and productivity at low N:P in culture media. The lipid content of four species has demonstrated high-quality biofuel properties. The optimum nutrient regimes and N:P for Nitrogen Removal and Phosphorus removal rates were found to be species-specific. Overall, the experiments stand as a model for understanding the influence of variations in N and P concerning N:P on biomass productivity, lipid content, lipid productivity, and N and P removal rate and efficiency of algae for initial standardization of the culture protocols for further industrial trials.
HIV-1 Virion Lysis following Centrifugation improves the Sensitivity of the Fourth- Generation HIV Ag/Ab Combo Assay
Authors: Wandera Allan , Ssekatawa Kenneth , Kato Charles Drago , Kwizera Eliah , Mujinya Pastori , Siida Robert
Published: September 2023

Objective
Fourth-generation HIV Ag/Ab Combo assay is used for HIV screening of blood for transfusion in developing countries, however, the sensitivity of the assay is questionable during the acute phase of HIV infection. Thus, the study aimed to determine the effect of combining centrifugation with HIV-1 virion lysis on the sensitivity of the fourth-generation HIV Ag/Ab combo assay.
Results
Of the 59 samples used, 50 were found to be HIV-1 Antibody negative and 9 were HIV Antibody positive. When the 50 HIV-1 antibody-negative samples were run on the fourth-generation HIV Ag/Ab combo assay, 8 (16%) were positive following centrifugation, 13 (26%) were positive following lysis while 25 (50%) were positive after combining centrifugation with HIV-1 virion lysis.