bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occult hepatitis B virus infection among patients with chronic liver disease of unidentified cause, Addis Ababa Ethiopia
Authors: Gissa Selam Bogale , Minaye Mengistu Erkie , Yeshitela Biruk , Gemechu Gizachew , Tesfaye Abebech , Alemayehu Dawit Hailu , Shewaye Abel , Sultan Amir , Mihret Adane , Mulu Andargachew
Published: August 2022

Occult hepatitis B virus infection (OBI) characterized by the absence of detectable HBsAg in the presence of HBV DNA in the serum and/or liver tissue remains a potential risk of transmission and diseases progression among different population groups. It could be associated with asymptomatic case up to chronic liver disease (CLD) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The objective of this study was to assess the magnitude and characteristics of OBI among patients with CLD of unidentified cause in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The study was conducted at the gastroenterology & hepatology referral clinic of three government and two private hospitals in Addis Ababa. Known CLD patients as evidenced by clinical and imaging criteria and/or with HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) negative results using rapid test kit were included. ELISA serological test to anti-HBc Ab, anti HBsAg Ab, and HBsAg were determined using BIORAD kits [https://www.bio-rad.com]. HBV-DNA was amplified, and viral loads were determined by quantitative real-time PCR using Abbott m2000rt platform following the manufacturer's instructions. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20.A total of 48 CLD patients with no identified cause for their liver disease were identified during the study period. All the patients had evidence of CLD by clinical and imaging criteria and nine were excluded. Three (7.69%) of the 39 patients tested positive for HBsAg test done by ELISA making the negative predictive value of the rapid test kits 92.3% compared to ELISA. The remaining 36 patients had serology test for HBV and 16 (44.4%) had positive anti-HBV core antibody. Two (5.56%) of the 36 patients with HBV viral load determination had detectable HBV DNA suggesting presence of an occult hepatitis B infection. Occult hepatitis B infection is found to be an aetiology among CLD patients labelled as having no identified cause by the current standard of care using rapid HBsAg kits in a subset of patients in Ethiopia. This study signifies the high rate of OBI and past evidence of HBV infection among CLD patients and thus nucleic acid testing and/or anti-HBc shall be integrated to the routine health care system to minimize HBV infection risk of transmission and to enhance patient care.
Augmenting apoptosis-mediated anticancer activity of lactoperoxidase and lactoferrin by nanocombination with copper and iron hybrid nanometals
Authors: El-Fakharany Esmail M. , Abu-Serie Marwa M. , Habashy Noha H. , Eltarahony Marwa
Published: August 2022

There is an urgent need in the medicinal fields to discover biocompatible nanoformulations with low cytotoxicity, which provide new strategies for promising therapies for several types of tumors. Bovine lactoperoxidase (LP) and lactoferrin (LF) have recently attracted attention in medicine for their antitumor activities with recognized safety pattern. Both LP and LF are suitable proteins to be coated or adsorbed to Cu and Fe nanometals for developing stable nanoformulations that boost immunity and strong anticancer effects. New nanometals of Cu and Fe NPs embedded in LP and LF forming novel nanocombinations of LP-CNPs and LF-FNPs had a spherical shape with an average nanosize of about 21 nm. The combination of LP-CNPs and LF-FNPs significantly exhibited the highest growth inhibitory efficacy, in terms of effectively lowering the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values, against Caco-2, HepG2 and MCF7 cells comparing to nanometals, LP, LF and individual nanoproteins (LP-CNPs or LF-FNPs). The highest apoptotic effect of this nanocombination (LP-CNPs and LF-FNPs) was confirmed by the highest percentages of annexin-stained apoptotic cells and G0 population with the strongest alteration in the expression of two well-characterized apoptosis guards (p53 and Bcl-2) and the maximum suppression in the proliferation marker (Ki-67). Also, the in silico analysis predicted that LP-CNPs and LF-FNPs enhanced AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK, p53 activator) activity and inhibited cancer migration-related proteases (cathepsin B and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9). Our results offer for the first time that these novel nanocombinations of LP and LF were superior in their selectivity and apoptosis-mediating anticancer activity to Cu and Fe nanometals as well as the free form of these proteins or their individual nanoforms.
Perception is rich and probabilistic
Authors: Jabar Syaheed B. , Fougnie Daryl
Published: August 2022

When we see a stimulus, e.g. a star-shaped object, our intuition is that we should perceive a single, coherent percept (even if it is inaccurate). But the neural processes that support perception are complex and probabilistic. Simple lines cause orientation-selective neurons across a population to fire in a probabilistic-like manner. Does probabilistic neural firing lead to non-probabilistic perception, or are the representations behind perception richer and more complex than intuition would suggest? To test this, we briefly presented a complex shape and had participants report the correct shape from a set of options. Rather than reporting a single value, we used a paradigm designed to encourage to directly report a representation over shape space—participants placed a series of Gaussian bets. We found that participants could report more than point-estimates of shape. The spread of responses was correlated with accuracy, suggesting that participants can convey a notion of relative imprecision. Critically, as participants placed more bets, the mean of responses show increased precision. The later bets were systematically biased towards the target rather than haphazardly placed around bet 1. These findings strongly indicate that participants were aware of more than just a point-estimate; Perceptual representations are rich and likely probabilistic.
Shedding of N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase-V is regulated by maturity of cellular N-glycan
Authors: Hirata Tetsuya , Takata Misaki , Tokoro Yuko , Nakano Miyako , Kizuka Yasuhiko
Published: August 2022

The number of N-glycan branches on glycoproteins is closely related to the development and aggravation of various diseases. Dysregulated formation of the branch produced by N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase-V (GnT-V, also called as MGAT5) promotes cancer growth and malignancy. However, it is largely unknown how the activity of GnT-V in cells is regulated. Here, we discover that the activity of GnT-V in cells is selectively upregulated by changing cellular N-glycans from mature to immature forms. Our glycomic analysis further shows that loss of terminal modifications of N-glycans resulted in an increase in the amount of the GnT-V-produced branch. Mechanistically, shedding (cleavage and extracellular secretion) of GnT-V mediated by signal peptide peptidase-like 3 (SPPL3) protease is greatly inhibited by blocking maturation of cellular N-glycans, resulting in an increased level of GnT-V protein in cells. Alteration of cellular N-glycans hardly impairs expression or localization of SPPL3; instead, SPPL3-mediated shedding of GnT-V is shown to be regulated by N-glycans on GnT-V, suggesting that the level of GnT-V cleavage is regulated by its own N-glycan structures. These findings shed light on a mechanism of secretion-based regulation of GnT-V activity.
Microbial rhodoquinone biosynthesis proceeds via an atypical RquA-catalyzed amino transfer from S-adenosyl-L-methionine to ubiquinone
Authors: Neupane Trilok , Chambers Lydia R. , Godfrey Alexander J. , Monlux Melina M. , Jacobs Evan J. , Whitworth Sophia , Spawn Jamie E. , Clingman Seo Hee K. , Vergunst Kathleen L. , Niven Fair M. , Townley James J. , Orion Iris W. , Goodspeed Carly R. , Cooper Kathryn A. , Cronk Jeff D. , Shepherd Jennifer N. , Langelaan David N.
Published: August 2022

Rhodoquinone (RQ) is a close analogue of ubiquinone (UQ) that confers diverse bacterial and eukaryotic taxa the ability to utilize fumarate as an electron acceptor in hypoxic conditions. The RquA protein, identified in a Rhodospirillum rubrum RQ-deficient mutant, has been shown to be required for RQ biosynthesis in bacteria. In this report, we demonstrate that RquA, homologous to SAM-dependent methyltransferases, is necessary and sufficient to catalyze RQ biosynthesis from UQ in vitro. Remarkably, we show that RquA uses SAM as the amino group donor in a substitution reaction that converts UQ to RQ. In contrast to known aminotransferases, RquA does not use pyridoxal 5’-phosphate (PLP) as a coenzyme, but requires the presence of Mn2+ as a cofactor. As these findings reveal, RquA provides an example of a non-canonical SAM-dependent enzyme that does not catalyze methyl transfer, instead it uses SAM in an atypical amino transfer mechanism.
Transition-metal-catalyzed C–H bond alkylation using olefins: recent advances and mechanistic aspects
Authors: Mandal Debasish , Roychowdhury Sumali , Biswas Jyoti Prasad , Maiti Siddhartha , Maiti Debabrata
Published: August 2022

Transition metal catalysis has contributed immensely to C–C bond formation reactions over the last few decades, and alkylation is no exception.
The maternal-fetal transfer of passive immunity as a mechanism of transplacental nanoparticle drug delivery for prenatal therapies
Authors: Tse Wai Hei , Higgins Sean , Patel Daywin , Xing Malcolm , West Adrian R. , Labouta Hagar I. , Keijzer Richard
Published: August 2022

Nanoparticles surface-modified with IgG isoform antibodies as a potential platform for the transplacental targeted delivery of therapeutics to the developing fetus.
Well-designed two-fold crosslinked biological valve leaflets with heparin-loaded hydrogel coating for enhancing anticoagulation, endothelialization, and anticalcification
Authors: Hu Mengyue , Peng Xu , Yue Lunli , Ding Hongmei , Yu Xiaoshuang , Wan Chang , Cheng Can , Yu Xixun
Published: August 2022

A novel joint strategy of double crosslinking agents (dialdehyde pectin (AP) and carbodiimide) and heparin-loaded hydrogel coating was developed, endowing BVLs with excellent mechanical properties and multiple performances.
Multi-layered ZIF-coated cells for the release of bioactive molecules in hostile environments
Authors: Gan Lei , Velásquez-Hernández Miriam de J. , Emmerstorfer-Augustin Anita , Wied Peter , Wolinski Heimo , Zilio Simone Dal , Solomon Marcello , Liang Weibin , Doonan Christian , Falcaro Paolo
Published: August 2022

Living cells are coated with a multi-layered MOF biocomposite shell: the shell dissolution releases a biotherapeutic (antitrypsin) that provides artificial adaptability to protease-rich environments.
Kinetics-controlled regulation for homogeneous nucleation and growth of colloidal polymer and carbon nanospheres
Authors: Wang Quan-Gao , Hou Lu , Lu An-Hui
Published: August 2022

Polymer and corresponding carbon nanospheres with good monodispersity (PDI < 5%) and customizable size below 100 nm have been synthesized by a facile and operable surface tension-determined kinetics-controlled method.
Co-crystallization of organic chromophore roseolumiflavin and effect on its optical characteristics
Authors: Haj Hassani Sohi Takin , Maass Felix , Czekelius Constantin , Suta Markus , Vasylyeva Vera
Published: August 2022

Three roseolumiflavin co-crystals are designed to elucidate the accessibility of flavins for the targeted tuning of luminescence in the solid state.
Core–shell excitation of isoxazole at the C, N, and O K-edges – an experimental NEXAFS and theoretical TD-DFT study
Authors: Wasowicz T. J. , Ljubić I. , Kivimäki A. , Richter R.
Published: August 2022

The near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectra of the gas-phase isoxazole molecule have been measured at the C, N, and O K-edges and interpreted using the time-dependent density functional theory.
First-principles study of two-dimensional C-silicyne nanosheet as a promising anode material for rechargeable Li-ion batteries
Authors: Duhan Nidhi , Dhilip Kumar T. J.
Published: August 2022

First principles-based investigations are carried out to explore the capability of a planar 2D C-silicyne nanosheet as an anode for improving the performance of Li-ion batteries.
Decoding regioselective reaction mechanism of gentisic acid catalyzed by the gentisate 1,2-dioxygenase enzyme
Authors: Nath Rounak , Manna Rabindra Nath , Paul Ankan
Published: August 2022

Gentisate 1,2-dioxygenase (GDO), a ring-fission non-heme dioxygenase enzyme, displays a unique regioselective reaction of gentisic acid (GTQ) in the presence of molecular oxygen.
Cobalt nanoparticles supported on microporous nitrogen-doped carbon for an efficient catalytic transfer hydrogenation reaction between nitroarenes and N-heterocycles
Authors: Lu Xiaomei , Qin Jingzhong , Xian Chensheng , Nie Jiabao , Li Xun , He Jie , Liu Bing
Published: August 2022

Cobalt nanoparticles supported on microporous nitrogen-doped carbon (Co/mNC) were prepared for catalytic hydrogen transfer between nitroarenes and N-heterocycles.
Data mining crystallization kinetics
Authors: Maldonado Diego A. , Vassileiou Antony , Johnston Blair , Florence Alastair J. , Brown Cameron J.
Published: August 2022

The database contains information on crystallization kinetics that describes crystal growth and primary nucleation for small molecules. In total, there are more than 336 datapoints distributed in more than 90 different chemical entities.
Impact ofLycium barbarumarabinogalactan on the fecal metabolome in a DSS-induced chronic colitis mouse model
Authors: Cao Cui , Wang Linlin , Ai Chunqing , Gong Guiping , Wang Zhongfu , Huang Linjuan , Song Shuang , Zhu Beiwei
Published: August 2022

Gut microbes and untargeted/targeted metabolomics were combined to comprehensively understand the therapeutic effect and the underlying mechanism ofLycium barbarumarabinogalactan (LBP-3) in DSS-induced colitis mice.
Superior bifunctional cobalt/nitrogen-codoped carbon nanosheet arrays on copper foam enable stable energy-saving hydrogen production accompanied with glucose upgrading
Authors: Xin Yu , Wang Fengliang , Chen Liyu , Li Yingwei , Shen Kui
Published: August 2022

We report the first example of constructing bifunctional CoNC nanosheet arrays on copper foam as both the cathode and anode to drive an energy-saving H2production system assisted by glucose-assisted Cu(i)/Cu(ii) redox-looping.
Synergistic compounding of carbon nanotubes and metal–organic frameworks for oxygen-evolving electrocatalysis
Authors: Hassan Mohamed H. , Haikal Rana R. , Alkordi Mohamed H.
Published: August 2022

MWCNTs composite with UiO-66-NH2 MOF doped with Ni(ii) ions produced a highly efficient heterogeneous electrocatalyst for the water oxidation reaction.
Fracture-controlled surfaces as extremely durable ice-shedding materials
Authors: Nazifi Sina , Huang Zixu , Hakimian Alireza , Ghasemi Hadi
Published: August 2022

Fracture-controlled surfaces solve the long-standing challenge of simultaneous low ice adhesion and high durability through accelerating crack nucleation and growth process at the ice–material interface.
Bi2O2Se-based integrated multifunctional optoelectronics
Authors: Verma Dharmendra , Liu Bo , Chen Tsung-Cheng , Li Lain-Jong , Lai Chao-Sung
Published: August 2022

Bi2O2Se-based device performs function of optoelectronic memory, associative learning, logic gates, and binary to decimal (4-bit) conversion via proper tuning of optical wavelengths, elucidating an approach towards advanced multifunctional systems.
Extended linear detection range of a Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 thin film-based self-powered UV photodetector via current and voltage dual indicators
Authors: Tian Mingyue , Xu Lan , Dan Huiyu , Yang Ya
Published: August 2022

A self-powered UV detector based on Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 (BNT) film realizes UV intensity detection over a wide linear range by combining current-voltage dual indicators. It detects low-light intensity with voltage and high-light intensity with current.
Novel dinuclear gold(i) complexes containing bis(diphenylphosphano)alkanes and (biphenyl-2-yl)(di-tert-butyl)phosphane: synthesis, structural characterization and anticancer activity
Authors: Sulaiman Adam A. A. , Ahmad Saeed , Mujahid Hashimi Saeed , Alqosaibi Amany I. , Peedikakkal Abdul Malik Puthan , Alhoshani Ali , Alsaleh Nasser B. , Isab Anvarhusein A.
Published: August 2022

Four novel dinuclear phosphanegold(I) complexes containing bis(diphenylphosphano)alkanes and related phosphano alkanes were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, FTIR, NMR spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography.
Chiral non-stoichiometric ternary silver indium sulfide quantum dots: investigation on the chirality transfer by cysteine
Authors: Branzi Lorenzo , Purcell-Milton Finn , Cressoni Chiara , Back Michele , Cattaruzza Elti , Speghini Adolfo , Gun'ko Yurii K. , Benedetti Alvise
Published: August 2022

Ligand-induced chirality in ternary non-stoichiometric silver indium sulfide (AIS) QDs is observed for the first time by the isolation ofl-AIS andd-AIS QDs stabilized withl- ord-cysteine, respectively.
A cyanide-catalyzed imino-Stetter reaction enables the concise total syntheses of rucaparib
Authors: Park Jinjae , Cheon Cheol-Hong
Published: August 2022

The concise total synthesis of rucaparib was developed from commercially available starting materials using the cyanide-catalyzed imino-Stetter reaction as the key reaction to construct the requisite tetra-substituted indole derivative.
Reliably obtaining white light from layered halide perovskites at room temperature
Authors: Crace Ethan J. , Su Alexander C. , Karunadasa Hemamala I.
Published: August 2022

Addition of bromide to 2D lead-chloride perovskites appears to be a general and reliable strategy for obtaining white light at room temperature from 2D perovskites, regardless of templating effects of the organic cations.
Porous polyaminoamides via an exotemplate synthesis approach for ultrahigh multimedia iodine adsorption
Authors: Avais Mohd. , Chattopadhyay Subrata
Published: August 2022

An exotemplate synthetic approach is demonstrated to prepare porous polyaminoamides with ultrahigh multimedia iodine capture ability and excellent chemical, thermal and radiation stability.
Evidence of a cluster spin-glass phase in the skyrmion-hosting GaMo4S8 compound
Authors: Malta José F. , C. Henriques Marta S. , Paixão José A. , P. Gonçalves António
Published: August 2022

Evidence for a cluster spin-glass phase (Tg = 15.3 K) in the skyrmion-hosting GaMo4S8 compound.
Fine-tuned asymmetric blue multiple resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters with high efficiency and narrow emission band
Authors: Park Jinho , Moon Junyoung , Lim Junseop , Woo Jeongkyu , Yoon Seung Soo , Lee Jun Yeob
Published: August 2022

Asymmetric blue multiple resonance-type thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials composed of diphenylamine combined with carbazole and acridine units were synthesized and evaluated to fine-tune the electronic and photophysical properties.
A high performance Au/CH3NH3PbI3/Cu planar-type self-powered photodetector
Authors: Jia Chen , Liu Hongli , Zhang Xiaoyuan , Wang Shirong , Li Xianggao
Published: August 2022

Self-powered photodetectors are great potential candidates in the next generation of low energy-consumption photoelectric devices.
Detection of nitrophenols with a fluorescent Zr(iv) metal–organic framework functionalized with benzylamino groups
Authors: Chatz-Giachia Amina , Psalti Athanasia E. , Pournara Anastasia D. , Manos Manolis J. , Pappa Christina , Triantafyllidis Konstantinos , Lazarides Theodore
Published: August 2022

We describe the rational design and synthesis of a fluorescent and π-electron rich Zr(IV) metal-organic framework showing strong emission quenching in the presence of acidic nitroaromatic guests 2,4,6-trinitrophenol and 2,4-dinitrophenol.
Feasibility of Tablet-Based Remote Data Collection Method for Measuring Hearing Aid Preference
Authors: Rallapalli Varsha , Souza Pamela
Published: August 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of a tablet-based remote data collection method for measuring preference for hearing aid signal processing features.

Method:

Participants were nine individuals with bilateral mild to moderately severe sensorineural hearing loss. Stimuli were spatialized low-context sentences mixed with six-talker babble at two realistic signal-to-noise ratios (3 and 8 dB) and processed through a hearing aid simulator. Preference for full factorial combinations of three common hearing aid processing features (two levels each) was elicited using a paired-comparison task. Participants completed two versions of the experiment: The lab version was completed in a sound-treated booth using a custom MATLAB application on a desktop computer; the remote version was completed in a quiet room in the participant's home, using a custom MATLAB executable application on a tablet. Both versions used the same calibrated headphones. Strict infection control protocols were followed.

Results:

McNemar's test showed no association between preference and data collection method for the majority of the conditions. Percentage agreement and kappa scores were moderate/fair across most conditions. The results indicated that the remote versus lab versions did not have a systematic effect on preference. However, the relatively low agreement and kappa scores suggested within-subject variability in the outcome (preference).

Conclusion:

The tablet-based version of remote experimentation was comparable to the lab-based version for eliciting preference for hearing aid signal processing features.
Collision Pressure and Dissipated Power Dose in a Self-Oscillating Silicone Vocal Fold Model With a Posterior Glottal Opening
Authors: Motie-Shirazi Mohsen , Zañartu Matías , Peterson Sean D. , Mehta Daryush D. , Hillman Robert E. , Erath Byron D.
Published: August 2022

Purpose:

The goal of this study was to experimentally evaluate how compensating for the adverse acoustic effects of a posterior glottal opening (PGO) by increasing subglottal pressure and changing supraglottal compression, as have been associated with vocal hyperfunction, influences the risk of vocal fold (VF) trauma.

Method:

A self-oscillating synthetic silicone model of the VFs with an airflow bypass that modeled a PGO was investigated in a hemilaryngeal flow facility. The influence of compensatory mechanisms on collision pressure and dissipated collision power was investigated for different PGO areas and supraglottal compression. Compensatory behaviors were mimicked by increasing the subglottal pressure to achieve a target sound pressure level (SPL).

Results:

Increasing the subglottal pressure to compensate for decreased SPL due to a PGO produced higher values for both collision pressure and dissipated collision power. Whereas a 10-mm
2
PGO area produced a 12% increase in the peak collision pressure, the dissipated collision power increased by 122%, mainly due to an increase in the magnitude of the collision velocity. This suggests that the value of peak collision pressure may not fully capture the mechanisms by which phonotrauma occurs. It was also found that an optimal value of supraglottal compression exists that maximizes the radiated SPL, indicating the potential utility of supraglottal compression as a compensatory mechanism.

Conclusions:

Larger PGO areas are expected to increase the risk of phonotrauma due to the concomitant increase in dissipated collision power associated with maintaining SPL. Furthermore, the risk of VF damage may not be fully characterized by only the peak collision pressure.
Does the Fe L-shell blend bias abundance measurements in intermediate-temperature clusters?
Authors: Riva Giacomo , Ghizzardi Simona , Molendi Silvano , Bartalucci Iacopo , De Grandi Sabrina , Gastaldello Fabio , Grillo Claudio , Rossetti Mariachiara
Published: August 2022

In intermediate-mass galaxy clusters (M = 2 − 4 × 1014 M⊙, or equivalentlyT = 2.5 − 4.5 keV), abundance measurements are almost equally driven by iron K and L transitions at ∼6.7 keV and 0.9 − 1.3 keV, respectively. While K-shell-derived measurements are considered reliable, the resolution of the currently available instrumentation, as well as our current knowledge of the atomic processes, makes the modelling of the L-line complex challenging, resulting in potential biases for abundance measurements. In this work we study with unprecedented accuracy the systematics related to the modelling of the Fe L-line complex that may influence iron-abundance measurements in the intermediate-mass range. To this end, we selected a sample of three bright and nearby galaxy clusters, with longXMM-Newtonobservations available and temperatures in the 2.5 − 4.5 keV range. We fit the spectra extracted from concentric rings with APEC and APEC+APEC models, by alternately excluding one band (L-shell or Kα) at a time, and derived the fractional difference of the metal abundances ΔZ/Zas an indication of the consistency between K- and L-shell-derived measurements. The ΔZ/Zdistribution was then studied as a function of the cluster radius, ring temperature, and X-ray flux. The L-blend-induced systematics, measured through an individual fit of eachXMM-NewtonMOS and pn camera spectrum, remain constant at a 5 − 6% value in the whole 2.5 − 4.5 keV temperature range. Conversely, a joint fit of MOS and pn spectra leads to a slight excess of 1 − 2% in this estimate. No significant dependence on the ring X-ray flux is highlighted. The measured 5 − 8% value indicates a modest contribution of the systematics to the derived iron abundances, giving confidence for future measurements. To date, these findings represent the best achievable estimate of the systematics in analysis, while future microcalorimeters will significantly improve our understanding of the atomic processes underlying the Fe L emissions.
Abundances of disk and bulge giants from high-resolution optical spectra
Authors: Forsberg R. , Ryde N. , Jönsson H. , Rich R. M. , Johansen A.
Published: August 2022

Aims. In this work, we aim to make a differential comparison of the neutron-capture and p-process element molybdenum (Mo) in the stellar populations in the local disk(s) and the bulge, focusing on minimising possible systematic effects in the analysis.

Methods. The stellar sample consists of 45 bulge and 291 local disk K-giants observed with high-resolution optical spectra. The abundances are determined by fitting synthetic spectra using the Spectroscopy Made Easy (SME) code. The disk sample is separated into thin and thick disk components using a combination of abundances and kinematics. The cosmic origin of Mo is investigated and discussed by comparing with published abundances of Mo and the neutron-capture elements cerium (Ce) and europium (Eu).

Results. We determine reliable Mo abundances for 35 bulge and 282 disk giants with a typical uncertainty of [Mo/Fe] ~ 0.2 and ~0.1 dex for the bulge and disk, respectively.

Conclusions. We find that the bulge is possibly enhanced in [Mo/Fe] compared to the thick disk, which we do not observe in either [Ce/Fe] or [Eu/Fe]. This might suggest a higher past star-formation rate in the bulge; however, as we do not observe the bulge to be enhanced in [Eu/Fe], the origin of the molybdenum enhancement is yet to be constrained. Although the scatter is large, we may be observing evidence of the p-process contributing to the heavy element production in the chemical evolution of the bulge.
Platelets in Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Schanze Nancy , Hamad Muataz Ali , Nührenberg Thomas Georg , Bode Christoph , Duerschmied Daniel
Published: August 2022

Coronary artery disease, including myocardial infarction (MI), remains a leading cause of global mortality. Rapid reperfusion therapy is key to the improvement of patient outcome but contributes substantially to the final cardiac damage. This phenomenon is called “ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI).” The underlying mechanisms of IRI are complex and not fully understood. Contributing cellular and molecular mechanisms involve the formation of microthrombi, alterations in ion concentrations, pH shifts, dysregulation of osmolality, and, importantly, inflammation. Beyond their known action as drivers of the development of coronary plaques leading to MI, platelets have been identified as important mediators in myocardial IRI. Circulating platelets are activated by the IRI-provoked damages in the vascular endothelium. This leads to platelet adherence to the reperfused endothelium, aggregation, and the formation of microthrombi. Furthermore, activated platelets release vasoconstrictive substances, act via surface molecules, and enhance leukocyte infiltration into post-IR tissue, that is, via platelet–leukocyte complexes. A better understanding of platelet contributions to myocardial IRI, including their interaction with other lesion-associated cells, is necessary to develop effective treatment strategies to prevent IRI and further improve the condition of the reperfused myocardium. In this review, we briefly summarize platelet properties that modulate IRI. We also describe the beneficial impacts of antiplatelet agents as well as their mechanisms of action in IRI beyond classic effects.
Ten Tips for Performing Your First Peer Review: The Next Step for the Aspiring Academic Plastic Surgeon
Authors: Frendø Martin , Frithioff Andreas , Andersen Steven Arild Wuyts
Published: August 2022

Performing the first peer review of a plastic surgical research article can be an overwhelming task. However, it is an essential scholarly skill and peer review is used in a multitude of settings: evaluation of journal articles, conference abstracts, and research proposals. Furthermore, peer reviewing provides more than just the opportunity to read and help improve other's work: peer reviewing can improve your own scientific writing. A structured approach is possible and recommended.

In these ten tips, we provide guidance on how to successfully conduct the first peer reviews. The ten tips on peer reviewing concern: 1) Appropriateness: are you qualified and prepared to perform the peer review? 2) Familiarization with the journal and its reviewing guidelines; 3) Gathering first impressions of the paper followed by specific tips for reviewing; 4) the abstract and introduction; 5) Materials, methods, and results (including statistical considerations); and 6) discussion, conclusion, and references. Tip 7 concerns writing and structuring the review; Tips 7 and 8 describe how to provide constructive criticism and understanding the limits of your expertise. Finally, Tip 10 details why—and how—you become a peer reviewer. Peer review can be done by any plastic surgeon, not just those interested in an academic career. These ten tips provide useful insights for both the aspiring and the experienced peer reviewer. In conclusion, a systematic approach to peer reviewing is possible and recommended, and can help you getting started to provide quality peer reviews that contribute to moving the field of plastic surgery forward.
A Comparative Analysis of Patient Satisfaction and Cosmetic Outcomes after Breast Reconstruction through BREAST-Q and the Judgment of Medical Panels: Does it Reflect Well in Terms of Aesthetics in Korean Patients?
Authors: Choi Woo Jung , Song Woo Jin , Kang Sang Gue
Published: August 2022

Background Currently, the BREAST-Q can effectively measure patient's satisfaction on the quality of life from the patient's perspective in relation to different type of breast reconstruction. However, evaluation of patient satisfaction and cosmetic outcomes in breast reconstruction may have potential to led bias.

Methods To maximize the benefits of using BREAST-Q to evaluate clinical outcome, we performed comparative study focused on the correlation between postoperative BREAST-Q and cosmetic outcomes assessed by medical professionals. For the current analysis, we used three postoperative BREAST-Q scales (satisfaction with breast, psychosocial well-being, and sexual well-being). The Ten-Point Scale by Visser et al was applied to provide reproducible grading of the postoperative cosmetic outcomes of the breast. The system includes six subscales that measured overall aesthetic outcome, volume, shape, symmetry, scarring, and nipple-areolar complex. The photographic assessments were made by five medical professionals who were shown photographs on a computer screen in a random order. Obtained data were stored in Excel and evaluated by Spearman's correlations using SPSS Statistics.

Results We enrolled 92 women in this study, 10 did not respond to all scales of postoperative BREAST-Q, the remaining 82 women had undergone breast reconstruction. The correlation between BREAST-Q score and aesthetic score measured by Ten-Point Scale for the three BREAST-Q scales all show positive values in Spearman's correlation coefficient.

Conclusion A significant correlation without any bias observed was found between the patient's satisfaction measured by BREAST-Q after breast reconstruction and the medical expert's aesthetic evaluation.
WALANT: A Discussion of Indications, Impact, and Educational Requirements
Authors: Shahid Shahab , Saghir Noman , Saghir Reyan , Young-Sing Quillan , Miranda Benjamin H.
Published: August 2022

Wide-awake, local anesthesia, no tourniquet (WALANT) is a technique that removes the requirement for operations to be performed with a tourniquet, general/regional anesthesia, sedation or an anesthetist. We reviewed the WALANT literature with respect to the diverse indications and impact of WALANT to discuss the importance of future surgical curriculum integration. With appropriate patient selection, WALANT may be used effectively in upper and lower limb surgery; it is also a useful option for patients who are unsuitable for general/regional anesthesia. There is a growing body of evidence supporting the use of WALANT in more complex operations in both upper and lower limb surgery. WALANT is a safe, effective, and simple technique associated with equivalent or superior patient pain scores among other numerous clinical and cost benefits. Cost benefits derive from reduced requirements for theater/anesthetic personnel, space, equipment, time, and inpatient stay. The lack of a requirement for general anesthesia reduces aerosol generating procedures, for example, intubation/high-flow oxygen, hence patients and staff also benefit from the reduced potential for infection transmission. WALANT provides a relatively, but not entirely, bloodless surgical field. Training requirements include the surgical indications, volume calculations, infiltration technique, appropriate perioperative patient/team member communication, and specifics of each operation that need to be considered, for example, checking of active tendon glide versus venting of flexor tendon pulleys. WALANT offers significant clinical, economic, and operative safety advantages when compared with general/regional anesthesia. Key challenges include careful patient selection and the comprehensive training of future surgeons to perform the technique safely.
Autologous Fat Transfer in Lupus Panniculitis Facial Lipoatrophy
Authors: Kongkunnavat Natthapong , Prathyajuta Jirapat , Tonaree Warangkana
Published: August 2022

Lupus panniculitis (LP) often presents with tender nodules and intermittent ulcers that then heal with scarring and lipoatrophy. The current mainstay of treatment is medical treatment. Research regarding the treatment of lipoatrophy from LP with autologous fat grafting is limited. We would like to share our experience in this rare case, which was treated with autologous fat transfer. A 48-year-old female presented with erythematous plaque, tender nodules, and ulcers following by a depression of the lesion at the left temporal area. The patient also had indurated erythematous plaque at her left cheek. Both lesions were aggravated by sunlight exposure. After several investigations, she was diagnosed as LP with secondary lipoatrophy and tumid lupus erythematosus at her left temporal and left cheek, respectively. She received antimalarial drug and topical steroids. The patient underwent two sessions of autologous fat transfer. She was satisfied with the volume and contour improvement in the scar following the injection of 8 and 3.7 mL of fat. Furthermore, the patient reported the remission of tender nodules and ulcers since the first fat graft injection. In conclusion, the autologous fat transfer is a simple and effective treatment for lipoatrophy and scar secondary to LP with promising results.
Study to the Effect of Involutional Blepharoptosis Surgery Using Objective and Subjective Parameters
Authors: Asamura Shinichi , Wada Yoshitaka , Tanaka Saiichi , Saika Shizuya
Published: August 2022

Background We investigate the effect of involutional blepharoptosis (IB) surgery based on dry eye symptoms by analysis using objective and subjective measures.

Methods We recorded various parameters from patients that underwent levator advancement surgery for IB, totaling 125 eyes (total 65 patients, 5 unilateral, 60 bilateral). Subjective assessment comprised a questionnaire on dry eye-related quality of life score (DEQS), a summary score calculated from DEQS, and six-grade evaluation, the patient's own measure of eye comfort. Objective assessment comprised marginal-reflex distance-1 (MRD-1), measurement of tear film breakup time, and superficial keratopathy (SPK) existence by slit lamp microscope.

Results Subjective assessments showed that IB patients had improvement of dry eye symptoms and eye comfort when surgery increased MRD-1. On the other hand, objective assessments showed that the presence of SPK is suspected when the postoperative MRD-1 level is 3 mm or higher.

Conclusion IB surgery must not only increase MRD-1 value, but also to perform maintenance of the appropriate ocular surface condition. From our parameters, we suggest postoperative MRD-1 value should be maintained at < 3 mm to safe and effective of IB surgery.
Cystic Salivary Duct Carcinoma Penetrated by Facial Nerve
Authors: Kim Yunghoon , Park Ji-Ung
Published: August 2022

Salivary duct carcinoma is a rare malignant salivary gland tumor that mainly has solid features. When it occurs in the parotid gland, it can invade the facial nerve and cause facial nerve paralysis. However, in our case, the salivary duct carcinoma exhibited cystic features on computed tomographic imaging, and the facial nerve passed through the cyst. Total parotidectomy with level-I to -III dissections was performed and nerve passing through the tumor was sacrificed. The patient received postoperative radiotherapy and was clinically and radiologically followed-up for every 3 months. Recurrence or distant metastasis was not reported. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case involving a salivary duct carcinoma with cystic features and facial nerve invasion. Here, we report a first case of cystic salivary duct carcinoma of the parotid gland which uncommonly undergo cystic change and penetrated by facial nerve and successfully resected without causing facial nerve injury.
Indian College of Radiology and Imaging Consensus Guidelines on Interventions in Pancreatitis
Authors: Gupta Pankaj , Madhusudhan Kumble S. , Padmanabhan Aswin , Khera Pushpinder Singh
Published: August 2022

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is one of the common gastrointestinal conditions presenting as medical emergency. Clinically, the severity of AP ranges from mild to severe. Mild AP has a favorable outcome. Patients with moderately severe and severe AP, on the other hand, require hospitalization and considerable utilization of health care resources. These patients require a multidisciplinary management. Pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) and arterial bleeding are the most important local complications of pancreatitis. PFCs may require drainage when infected or symptomatic. PFCs are drained endoscopically or percutaneously, based on the timing and the location of collection. Both the techniques are complementary, and many patients may undergo dual modality treatment. Percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) remains the most extensively utilized method for drainage in patients with AP and necrotic PFCs. Besides being effective as a standalone treatment in a significant proportion of these patients, PCD also provides an access for percutaneous endoscopic necrosectomy and minimally invasive necrosectomy. Endovascular embolization is the mainstay of management of arterial complications in patients with AP and chronic pancreatitis. The purpose of the present guideline is to provide evidence-based recommendations for the percutaneous management of complications of pancreatitis.
Synergies and trade-offs between climate change adaptation options and gender equality: a review of the global literature
Authors: Roy Joyashree , Prakash Anjal , Some Shreya , Singh Chandni , Bezner Kerr Rachel , Caretta Martina Angela , Conde Cecilia , Ferre Marta Rivera , Schuster-Wallace Corinne , Tirado-von der Pahlen Maria Cristina , Totin Edmond , Vij Sumit , Baker Emily , Dean Graeme , Hillenbrand Emily , Irvine Alison , Islam Farjana , McGlade Katriona , Nyantakyi-Frimpong Hanson , Ravera Federica , Segnon Alcade , Solomon Divya , Tandon Indrakshi
Published: August 2022

Climate change impacts are being felt across sectors in all regions of the world, and adaptation projects are being implemented to reduce climate risks and existing vulnerabilities. Climate adaptation actions also have significant synergies and tradeoffs with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 5 on gender equality. Questions are increasingly being raised about the gendered and climate justice implications of different adaptation options. This paper investigates if reported climate change adaptation actions are contributing to advancing the goal of gender equality (SDG 5) or not. It focuses on linkages between individual targets of SDG 5 and climate change adaptation actions for nine major sectors where transformative climate actions are envisaged. The assessment is based on evidence of adaptation actions documented in 319 relevant research publications published during 2014–2020. Positive links to nine targets under SDG 5 are found in adaptation actions that are consciously designed to advance gender equality. However, in four sectors—ocean and coastal ecosystems; mountain ecosystems; poverty, livelihood, sustainable development; and industrial system transitions, we find more negative links than positive links. For adaptation actions to have positive impacts on gender equality, gender-focused targets must be intentionally brought in at the prioritisation, designing, planning, and implementation stages. An SDG 5+ approach, which takes into consideration intersectionality and gender aspects beyond women alone, can help adaptation actions move towards meeting gender equality and other climate justice goals. This reflexive approach is especially critical now, as we approach the mid-point in the timeline for achieving the SDGs.
Tuning polaritons in van der Waals moiré superlattices with interlayer spacing
Authors: Lv Xinyu , Wen Lu , Dai Zhenbing , Luo Guoyu , Li Zhiqiang
Published: August 2022

We theoretically study the interference and propagation of phonon polaritons in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) in van der Waals heterostructures composed of hBN and twisted bilayer graphene (TBG) with different interlayer spacing in TBG. We show that varying the interlayer spacing and, hence, the interlayer coupling strength results in dramatic modifications of the local optical conductivity at the domain walls (DWs) in TBG, which leads to significant changes in the polariton interference profile near DWs. Moreover, our simulation reveals that the two-dimensional near-field interference pattern generated by polariton propagation in hBN/TBG heterostructures can be dramatically changed by interlayer spacing and the superlattice period. Our study demonstrates that combining interlayer spacing modification with moiré superlattices is a valuable route to control light at the nanoscale and design nanophotonic devices with tunable functionalities.
β-Ga2O3 FinFETs with ultra-low hysteresis by plasma-free metal-assisted chemical etching
Authors: Huang Hsien-Chih , Ren Zhongjie , Anhar Uddin Bhuiyan A F M , Feng Zixuan , Yang Zhendong , Luo Xixi , Huang Alex Q. , Green Andrew , Chabak Kelson , Zhao Hongping , Li Xiuling
Published: August 2022

In this work, β-Ga2O3 fin field-effect transistors (FinFETs) with metalorganic chemical vapor deposition grown epitaxial Si-doped channel layer on (010) semi-insulating β-Ga2O3 substrates are demonstrated. β-Ga2O3 fin channels with smooth sidewalls are produced by the plasma-free metal-assisted chemical etching (MacEtch) method. A specific on-resistance (Ron,sp) of 6.5 mΩ·cm2 and a 370 V breakdown voltage are achieved. In addition, these MacEtch-formed FinFETs demonstrate DC transfer characteristics with near zero (9.7 mV) hysteresis. The effect of channel orientation on threshold voltage, subthreshold swing, hysteresis, and breakdown voltages is also characterized. The FinFET with channel perpendicular to the [102] direction is found to exhibit the lowest subthreshold swing and hysteresis.
Equivalent circuit analysis of a mode-converting metacell in a coaxial transmission line at microwave frequencies
Authors: Lopez Tanguy , Lepetit Thomas , Burokur Shah Nawaz
Published: August 2022

To provide for an ever-increasing need for camouflage, experts in stealth have been envisioning for a few years to use metasurfaces and their unconventional electromagnetic properties to serve as efficient cloaking devices. To prepare for the use of surface-mounted electronic components, useful for frequency-selecting purposes, we take interest in an equivalent circuit analysis of metasurfaces. Indeed, metasurfaces using electronic components invite one to combine the passive behavior of the host structure with that of the lumped elements. The equivalent circuit analysis of the hosting surface deprived of electronic components has so far been dedicated to the case of metasurfaces constituted by rectangular or square unit cells. This work, therefore, aims at extending the former study on Cartesian unit cells to the coaxial geometry of interest. The validity of such a method is then assessed by comparison with the numerical simulation results obtained using a finite-element method.
Deep learning-based surrogate model for three-dimensional patient-specific computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Du Pan , Zhu Xiaozhi , Wang Jian-Xun
Published: August 2022

Optimization and uncertainty quantification have been playing an increasingly important role in computational hemodynamics. However, existing methods based on principled modeling and classic numerical techniques have faced significant challenges, particularly when it comes to complex three-dimensional (3D) patient-specific shapes in the real world. First, it is notoriously challenging to parameterize the input space of arbitrary complex 3D geometries. Second, the process often involves massive forward simulations, which are extremely computationally demanding or even infeasible. We propose a novel deep learning surrogate modeling solution to address these challenges and enable rapid hemodynamic predictions. Specifically, a statistical generative model for 3D patient-specific shapes is developed based on a small set of baseline patient-specific geometries. An unsupervised shape correspondence solution is used to enable geometric morphing and scalable shape synthesis statistically. Moreover, a simulation routine is developed for automatic data generation by automatic meshing, boundary setting, simulation, and post-processing. An efficient supervised learning solution is proposed to map the geometric inputs to the hemodynamics predictions in latent spaces. Numerical studies on aortic flows are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness and merit of the proposed techniques.