bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of science journalism reveals gender and regional disparities in coverage
Authors: Davidson Natalie R. , Greene Casey S.
Published: February 2023

Science journalism is a critical way for the public to learn about and benefit from scientific findings. Such journalism shapes the public’s view of the current state of science and legitimizes experts. Journalists can only cite and quote a limited number of sources, who they may discover in their research, including recommendations by other scientists. Biases in either process may influence who is identified and ultimately included as a source. To examine potential biases in science journalism, we analyzed 22,001 non-research articles published by Nature and compared these with Nature-published research articles with respect to predicted gender and name origin. We extracted cited authors’ names and those of quoted speakers. While citations and quotations within a piece do not reflect the entire information-gathering process, they can provide insight into the demographics of visible sources. We then predicted gender and name origin of the cited authors and speakers. We compared articles with a comparator set made up of first and last authors within primary research articles in Nature and a subset of Springer Nature articles in the same time period. In our analysis, we found a skew toward male quotation in Nature science journalism. However, quotation is trending toward equal representation at a faster rate than authorship rates in academic publishing. Gender disparity in Nature quotes was column-dependent. We found a significant over-representation of names with predicted Celtic/English origin and under-representation of names with a predicted East Asian origin in both in extracted quotes and journal citations but dampened in citations.
Comprehensive evaluation of software system reliability based on component-based generalized G-O models
Authors: Wang Yuzhuo , Liu Haitao , Yuan Haojie , Zhang Zhihua
Published: February 2023

The component-based software system has a core that is based on architecture design. Predicting the reliability growth trends of a software system in the early stages of the development process is conducive to reducing waste and loss caused by blind development. Restricted by the lack of information and data in the design and integration phase, it is difficult to implement reliability prediction research at this stage. In this article, we focus on a software system in which the reliability of each component follows the G-O model. First, two system-level parameters, which are the total number of system faults and the detection rate of the system faults, are defined. Then, by studying the relationship between the total number of faults and the detection rate of faults between the components and the system, the defined system parameters are calculated from the known component parameters. On this basis, and by incorporating the system parameters, we construct a reliability growth model for the software system, called the component-based generalized G-O model (CB-GGOM). Besides, two approximate models of CB-GGOM are proposed to facilitate reliability evaluation of the software system in the early and stable stages of the integration test. An engineering explanation of the proposed models is also provided, and their effectiveness is verified through simulation and with an authentic example. Since the proposed models are formulated without any integration test data, they are beneficial for developers to optimize test strategies of the software system and implement defect prevention in advance.
Drought and water availability analysis for irrigation and household water needs in the Krueng Jrue sub-watershed
Authors: Basri Hairul , Sufardi Sufardi , Helmi Helmi , Syakur Syakur , Sugianto Sugianto , Azmeri Azmeri , Helmi Helmi
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to analyze drought conditions and evaluate irrigation water availability and household water needs in the Krueng Jrue sub-watershed, Aceh Province, Indonesia. The Z-score statistics method was developed to analyze the drought, and the Mock model was used to generate discharges. We performed model validation using linear regression, which produced a coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.90**) and coefficient of regression (r = 0.95**). In general, this area had a normal Z-score for precipitation (ZSP) class with 90 events (75%) and a normal Z-score for a discharge (ZSD) class with 89 events (74.2%). There were 0–11 (0–9.2%) moderate wet, very wet, extreme wet, moderate drought, and severe drought events. The consistency between the ZSP and ZSD indices reached 85.8%, indicating consensus between the meteorological droughts that were analyzed based on rainfall (ZSP) and hydrological droughts analyzed based on water discharge (ZSD). ZSP and ZSD indices showed negative values during the dry season (April to September) and positive values during the rainy season (October to March). There was a surplus of water availability for irrigation and household water needs during the rainy season and a deficit during the dry season. However, water deficits also occurred in certain months during the rainy rendeng planting season, for example, in October 2009, 2013, 2016, and 2017 as well as in February between 2008 to 2011 and from 2014 to 2017. This observation was probably due to the influence of global climate variables that need to be substantiated. This study offers necessary information for farmers, the community, and the local government when anticipating drought phenomenon, organizing the rice planting season, and evaluating water availability in other watersheds.
Phytochemical Screening and Antimicrobial Activity of Sarcocephalus latifolius Smith Roots Extracts
Authors: Chabi-Sika Kamirou , Sina Haziz , Boya Bawa , Mama-Sirou Ibrahima , Kpangon Lucas , Salami Hafiz A. , Kelomey Aude , Roko Gautier , Assogba Sylvestre A. , Adoko Marcel Y. , Baba-Moussa Lamine
Published: February 2023

Aims: This work aims to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of Sarcocephalus latifolius extracts.

Methodology: Thus, phytochemical screening was qualitatively accessed using colorations or precipitations methods. Ethanolic and aqueous extracts were used to evaluate the antimicrobial activity. The antimicrobial activity, using the diffusion method, was evaluated on eight strains including two reference strains (Streptococcus pneumoniae ATCC 49619 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853) and six clinically isolated S. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa strains. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) were determined by the microdilution method. 

Results: The phytochemical screening showed the presence of flavonoids, anthocyanins, mucilages, saponosides, C-heterosides and O-heterosides. Antimicrobial activity showed that the ethanolic extract with the lowest MIC (1.25 mg/ml) inhibited reference strains (S. pneumoniae ATCC 49619 and P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853) and clinical isolated S. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa strains. The largest inhibition diameter (19± 1.33) was obtained with the ethanolic extract against clinical isolated Pseudomonas aeruginosa and (15.5± 1) against the reference one. The aqueous extract inhibited only reference strains.

Conclusions: The data of this study indicate that the extracts of S. latifolius present antimicrobial properties. This may justify its traditional use in the treatment of microbial infections.
Synergistic Association of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen and Plasma Epstein-Barr Virus DNA Load on Distant Metastasis in Patients With Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Li Haojiang , Cao Di , Li Shuqi , Chen Binghong , Zhang Yun , Zhu Yuliang , Luo Chao , Lin Weiqun , Huang Wenjie , Ruan Guangying , Zhang Rong , Li Jiang , Liu Lizhi
Published: February 2023

Importance

Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) reportedly increases the risk of distant metastasis among patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, the associated potential interaction and changes in hazard ratios (HRs) between HBsAg and different plasma Epstein-Barr (EBV) DNA levels are unknown. Moreover, the potential HBsAg-positive–associated NPC metastatic mechanism remains unclear.

Objective

To investigate the prognostic value and biological associations of HBsAg and plasma EBV DNA levels on distant metastasis in patients with NPC.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Retrospective cohort study performed at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center between January 2010 and January 2013. A total of 792 patients with nonmetastatic NPC were enrolled. The median (range) follow-up time was 62.1 (1.4-83.4) months. Of these patients, 17.8% presented with HBsAg positivity. Cytological experiments were performed to evaluate the role of HBsAg in the invasion and migration of EBV-positive NPC cells. Data analysis was performed from July 2020 to April 2021.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was distant metastasis–free survival. Association rules were used to identify new rules related to distant metastasis. Interaction plots, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, stratification analysis, and quantification using HRs were conducted. Additionally, cell migration and invasion assays, as well as Western blotting, were performed in the cytological validation.

Results

Among the 792 patients, 576 (72.7%) were male, with a median (IQR) age of 45 (38-53) years. The HBsAg-positive group exhibited a significant interaction and increased risk of distant metastasis when plasma EBV DNA cutoff levels were 1.5 × 1000 copies/mL or greater. The HR was 9.16 (95% CI, 2.46-34.14) when the plasma EBV DNA load reached 6 × 1000 copies/mL, which was higher than that in patients with stage IV disease (HR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.13-3.56; P = .02). In cytological experiments, HBsAg promoted epithelial-mesenchymal transition by upregulating vimentin and fibronectin in EBV-positive NPC cells in vitro, thereby promoting invasion and migration of EBV-positive NPC cells.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, the observed synergistic association between HBsAg and plasma EBV DNA load represented a novel potential mechanism underlying the increased risk of distant metastasis in patients with NPC. Hence, attention should be paid to patients with NPC with HBsAg positivity, especially when the plasma EBV DNA level is 6 × 1000 copies/mL or greater. Consideration of this synergistic association will contribute to more accurate individualized management.
Association of Recent SARS-CoV-2 Infection With New-Onset Alcohol Use Disorder, January 2020 Through January 2022
Authors: Olaker Veronica R. , Kendall Ellen K. , Wang Christina X. , Parran Theodore V. , Terebuh Pauline , Kaelber David C. , Xu Rong , Davis Pamela B.
Published: February 2023

Importance

The COVID-19 pandemic affects many diseases, including alcohol use disorders (AUDs). As the pandemic evolves, understanding the association of a new diagnosis of AUD with COVID-19 over time is required to mitigate negative consequences.

Objective

To examine the association of COVID-19 infection with new diagnosis of AUD over time from January 2020 through January 2022.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this retrospective cohort study of electronic health records of US patients 12 years of age or older, new diagnoses of AUD were compared between patients with COVID-19 and patients with other respiratory infections who had never had COVID-19 by 3-month intervals from January 20, 2020, through January 27, 2022.

Exposures

SARS-CoV-2 infection or non–SARS-CoV-2 respiratory infection.

Main Outcomes and Measures

New diagnoses of AUD were compared in COVID-19 and propensity score–matched control cohorts by hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs from either 14 days to 3 months or 3 to 6 months after the index event.

Results

This study comprised 1 201 082 patients with COVID-19 (56.9% female patients; 65.7% White; mean [SD] age at index, 46.2 [18.9] years) and 1 620 100 patients with other respiratory infections who had never had COVID-19 (60.4% female patients; 71.1% White; mean [SD] age at index, 44.5 [20.6] years). There was a significantly increased risk of a new diagnosis of AUD in the 3 months after COVID-19 was contracted during the first 3 months of the pandemic (block 1) compared with control cohorts (HR, 2.53 [95% CI, 1.82-3.51]), but the risk decreased to nonsignificance in the next 3 time blocks (April 2020 to January 2021). The risk for AUD diagnosis increased after infection in January to April 2021 (HR, 1.30 [95% CI, 1.08-1.56]) and April to July 2021 (HR, 1.80 [95% CI, 1.47-2.21]). The result became nonsignificant again in blocks 7 and 8 (COVID-19 diagnosis between July 2021 and January 2022). A similar temporal pattern was seen for new diagnosis of AUD 3 to 6 months after infection with COVID-19 vs control index events.

Conclusions and Relevance

Elevated risk for AUD after COVID-19 infection compared with non–COVID-19 respiratory infections during some time frames may suggest an association of SARS-CoV-2 infection with the pandemic-associated increase in AUD. However, the lack of excess hazard in most time blocks makes it likely that the circumstances surrounding the pandemic and the fear and anxiety they created also were important factors associated with new diagnoses of AUD.
Cryopreservation: A Comprehensive Overview, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Parihar Arpana , Kumar Avinash , Panda Udwesh , Khan Rukhsar , Parihar Dipesh Singh , Khan Raju
Published: February 2023

Cryopreservation is the most prevalent method of long‐term cell preservation. Effective cell cryopreservation depends on freezing, adequate storage, and correct thawing techniques. Recent advances in cryopreservation techniques minimize the cellular damage which occurs while processing samples. This article focuses on the fundamentals of cryopreservation techniques and how they can be implemented in a variety of clinical settings. The article presents a brief description of each of the standard cryopreservation procedures, such as slow freezing and vitrification. Alongside that, the membrane permeating and nonpermeating cryoprotectants are briefly discussed, along with current advancements in the field of cryopreservation and variables influencing the cryopreservation process. The diminution of cryoinjury incurred by the cell via the resuscitation process will also be highlighted. In the end application of cryopreservation techniques in many fields, with a special emphasis on stem cell preservation techniques and current advancements presented. Furthermore, the challenges while implementing cryopreservation and the futuristic scope of the fields are illustrated herein. The content of this review sheds light on various ways to enhance the output of the cell preservation process and minimize cryoinjury while improving cell revival.
Sintered Polycrystalline BiVO4 Pellet for Stable X‐Ray Detector with Low Detection Limit
Authors: Jia Shanshan , Xiao Yingrui , Bu Nuo , Li Nan , Li Deng , Yang Zhou , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: February 2023

Semiconductors based on Bi element show large attenuation coefficients to X‐ray photons and have been recognized as candidates for X‐ray detectors. However, the application of stable Bi‐based oxide materials to X‐ray detectors has been rarely investigated. In this research, the X‐ray response of a BiVO4 pellet has been studied. It has been found that the BiVO4 pellet has a large resistivity of 1.3 × 1012 Ω cm, negligible current drift of 6.18 × 10−8 nA cm−1 s−1 V−1 under electrical bias and mobility lifetime product, µτ, of 1.75 × 10−4 cm2 V−1, which renders the pellet with an X‐ray sensitivity of 241.3 µC Gyair−1 cm−2 and a detection limit of 62 nGyair s−1 under 40 KVp X‐ray illumination and 40 V bias voltage. The BiVO4 pellet also shows operational stability under steady X‐ray illumination with total dose of 2.01 Gyair, equal to the dose of 20 000 medical chest X‐ray inspections. This research reveals the potential application of BiVO4 in X‐ray detection devices and inspires further research in this area.
Customized Optical Fiber Birefringent Sensors to Multipoint and Simultaneous Temperature and Radial Strain Tracking of Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Matuck Lucca C. , Cabrita Pedro D. , Pinto João L. , Marques Carlos A. , Nascimento Micael S.
Published: February 2023

Batteries are seen as a vital piece for actual carbon‐neutral world needs. However, as they basically operate through extremely exothermic electrochemical events, special attention must be paid to their thermal and volumetric constraints, where continuous and accurate monitoring is of great importance. Considering it, customized optical sensors, based on fiber Bragg gratings recorded in birefringent PANDA fibers (FBG‐PANDA), are developed and instrumented in a coiled configuration into a cylindrical Li‐ion battery (LiB) to simultaneously track temperature and radial strain during galvanostatic cycles, in three different battery locations, for the first time. The maximum temperature and radial strain variations are achieved in the middle and at the end of the discharge steps. This thermal behavior is correlated with the internal heat generation and transfer of thermal energy processes, with a tendency to accumulate in the LiB central zone.Good feasibility and reproducibility are observed in the optical sensor's performance and demonstrated that by operating as a multiparameter decouple system, they can decrease the complexity and intrusiveness in batteries, by using only one optical fiber line. The reported results are in accordance with the literature, indicating that such sensors could be consistently used for future applications regarding battery safety parameters sensing.
Numerical Investigation of Flow Patterns and Mixing Characteristics in a 3D Micromixer with Helical Elements over Wide Reynolds Numbers
Authors: Liu Bo , Chen Chaozhan , Ran Bin , Shi Liuyong , Wei Jiashen , Jin Jing , Zhu Yonggang
Published: February 2023

Micromixers play an important role in the micro total analysis systems (µTAS) that require rapid and effective mixing. However, current micromixers are usually designed to meet the need for mixing at limited Reynolds numbers. Herein, this paper presents a high‐performance 3D micromixer with helical elements over wide Reynolds numbers to achieve efficient mixing and has numerically investigated flow patterns and mixing characteristics accordingly. A coupled numerical model is built to analyze the flow pattern, mixing behavior, residence time distribution (RTD), and mixing performance of the 3D micromixer. Helical elements inside could greatly enhance a secondary flow and induce chaotic advection around. Dean vortices are observed in the micromixer, enormously shortening the RTD and promoting the related mixing effect. Furthermore, the effects of various geometric parameters are systematically investigated to optimize the performance of this 3D micromixer. The optimized micromixer shows excellent mixing ability over wide Reynolds numbers ranging from 0.01 to 2333.3, with an efficiency of over 94%. In addition, the numerical results are proved well consistent with analytical and experimental data correspondingly. Therefore, this work would potentially expand the use scope of 3D micromixers and provide a constructive strategy to develop essential parts involving the mixing or reacting process in µTAS.
Nanomodified Switch Induced Precise and Moderate Activation of CAR‐T Cells for Solid Tumors
Authors: Wang Xinyue , Meng Fanyan , Li Xiang , Xue Luxin , Chen Anni , Qiu Yuling , Zhang Zhifan , Li Lin , Liu Fengcen , Li Yishan , Sun Zhichen , Chu Yanhong , Xu Ruihan , Yu Lixia , Shao Jie , Tian Manman , Qian Xiaoping , Liu Qin , Liu Baorui , Li Rutian
Published: February 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T cell therapy is a transformative treatment against advanced malignancies. Unfortunately, once administrated in vivo, CAR‐T cells become out of artificial control, and fierce response to CAR‐T therapy may cause severe adverse events, represented by cytokine‐release syndrome and on‐target/off‐tumor effects. Here, a nanomodified switch strategy is developed, leading to sustained and precise “on‐tumor only” activation of CAR‐T cells. Here, original gelatinase‐responsive nanoparticles (NPs) are used to selectively deliver the heterodimerizing switch, which is the key component of switchable CAR with separated activation modules. The “NanoSwitch” is tumor‐specific, thus inactivated switchable CAR‐T cells do little harm to normal cells, even if the normal cells express the target of CAR‐T. Owing to the sustained‐release effect of NPs, the CAR‐T cells are activated smoothly, avoiding sudden release of cytokine. These data introduce NanoSwitch as a universal and applicable solution to safety problems of CAR‐T therapy regardless of the target.
LYRM7‐associated mitochondrial complex III deficiency with non‐cavitating leukoencephalopathy and stroke‐like episodes
Authors: Alfattal Rita , Alfarhan Maryam , Algaith Adeeb M. , Albash Buthaina , Elshafie Reem M. , Alshammari Asma , Alahmad Ahmad , Dashti Fatima , Alsafi Rasha , Alsharhan Hind
Published: February 2023

Defects of respiratory chain complex III (CIII) result in characteristic but rare mitochondrial disorders associated with distinct neuroradiological findings. The underlying molecular defects affecting mitochondrial CIII assembly factors are few and yet to be identified. LYRM7 assembly factor is required for proper CIII assembly where it acts as a chaperone for the Rieske iron–sulfur (UQCRFS1) protein in the mitochondrial matrix and stabilizing it. We present here the seventeenth individual with LYRM7‐associated mitochondrial leukoencephalopathy harboring a previously reported rare pathogenic homozygous LYRM 7 variant, c.2T>C, (p.Met1?). Like previously reported individuals, our 5‐year‐old male proband presented with recurrent metabolic and lactic acidosis, encephalopathy, and fatigue. Further, he has additional, previously unreported features, including an acute stroke like episode with bilateral central blindness and optic neuropathy, recurrent hyperglycemia and hypertension associated with metabolic crisis. However, he has no signs of psychomotor regression. He has been stable clinically with residual left‐sided reduced visual acuity and amblyopia, and no more metabolic crises for 2‐year‐period while on the mitochondrial cocktail. Although the reported brain MRI findings in other affected individuals are homogenous, it is slightly different in our index, revealing evidence of bilateral almost symmetric multifocal periventricular T2 hyperintensities with hyperintensities of the optic nerves, optic chiasm, and corona radiata but with no cavitation or cystic changes. This report describes new clinical and radiological findings of LYRM7‐associated disease. The report also summarizes the clinical and molecular data of previously reported individuals describing the full phenotypic spectrum.
Preparation of βCD‐AC functionalized ZnO/ZnSe for photocatalytic degradation of organic dye wastewater
Authors: Tian Fei , Yang Yan , Zhang Yi , Liu Xiaochen , He Yanhui , Wu Zhansheng
Published: February 2023

Conventional photocatalysts for degrading pollutants are limited because of the rapid recombination of electron–hole pair, difficulty in separation and recovery, and low efficiency in utilizing the visible light. To improve the adsorption capacity of the photocatalyst and reduce electron–hole recombination rate, βCD was anchored onto the porous activated carbon (AC) and then combined with ZnO/ZnSe to prepare βCD‐AC‐ZnO/ZnSe. The ZnO was a quasi‐hexahedron shape in the ZnO/ZnSe heterojunction and was tightly integrated with the βCD‐AC, which could improve the transfer ability of the photogenerated carrier. Considering the synergistic effect of βCD‐AC and ZnO/ZnSe, the UV absorption edge was red shifted, and the lifetime of the electrons–hole pairs was prolonged. Thus, the photocatalytic degradation ration of βCD‐AC‐ZnO/ZnSe reached 82% under visible light, which was about 1.8 and 4.2 times higher than those of the virgin heterojunction and AC‐ZnO/ZnSe, respectively. βCD‐AC‐ZnO/ZnSe exhibited excellent disinfection potential that 3.5 log Escherichia coli cells were killed for 120 min. The high‐efficiency visible‐light photocatalytic performance was demonstrated, and the •O2− played a main active role in the photocatalytic removal of pollutants. The present research provided a valuable route for the fabrication of photocatalyst for real‐world applications.
Microwave‐assisted synthesis of blue fluorescent molybdenum nanoclusters with maltose‐cysteine Schiff base for detection of myoglobin and γ‐aminobutyric acid in biofluids
Authors: Harshita  , Park Tae‐Jung , Kailasa Suresh Kumar
Published: February 2023

The fabrication of stable fluorescent MoNCs (molybdenum nanoclusters) in aqueous media is quite challenging as it is not much explored yet. Herein, we report a facile and efficient strategy for fabricating MoNCs using 2,3 dialdehyde maltose‐cysteine Schiff base (DAM‐cysteine) as a ligand for detecting myoglobin and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) in biofluids with high selectivity and sensitivity. The DAM‐cysteine‐MoNCs displayed fluorescence of bright blue color under a UV light at 365 nm with an emission peak at 444 nm after excitation at 370 nm. The synthesized DAM‐cysteine‐MoNCs were homogeneously distributed with a mean size of 2.01 ± 0.98 nm as confirmed by the high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM). Further, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) techniques were utilized to confirm the elemental oxidation states and surface functional groups of the DAM‐cysteine‐MoNCs. After the addition of myoglobin and GABA, the emission peak of DAM‐cysteine‐MoNCs at 444 nm was significantly quenched. This resulted in the development of a quantitative assay for the detection of myoglobin (0.1–0.5 μM) and GABA (0.125–2.5 μM) with the lower limit of detection as 56.48 and 112.75 nM for myoglobin and GABA, respectively.
Galactosylated hydroxyl‐polyamidoamine dendrimer targets hepatocytes and improves therapeutic outcomes in a severe model of acetaminophen poisoning‐induced liver failure
Authors: Porterfield Joshua E. , Sharma Rishi , Jimenez Ambar Scarlet , Sah Nirnath , McCracken Sean , Zhang Lucia , An Hyoung‐Tae , Lee Seulki , Kannan Sujatha , Sharma Anjali , Kannan Rangaramanujam M.
Published: February 2023

Toxicity to hepatocytes caused by various insults including drugs is a common cause of chronic liver failure requiring transplantation. Targeting therapeutics specifically to hepatocytes is often a challenge since they are relatively nonendocytosing unlike the highly phagocytic Kupffer cells in the liver. Approaches that enable targeted intracellular delivery of therapeutics to hepatocytes have significant promise in addressing liver disorders. We synthesized a galactose‐conjugated hydroxyl polyamidoamine dendrimer (D4‐Gal) that targets hepatocytes efficiently through the asialoglycoprotein receptors in healthy mice and in a mouse model of acetaminophen (APAP)‐induced liver failure. D4‐Gal localized specifically in hepatocytes and showed significantly better targeting when compared with the non‐Gal functionalized hydroxyl dendrimer. The therapeutic potential of D4‐Gal conjugated to N‐acetyl cysteine (NAC) was tested in a mouse model of APAP‐induced liver failure. A single intravenous dose of a conjugate of D4‐Gal and NAC (Gal‐D‐NAC) improved survival in APAP mice, decreased cellular oxidative injury and areas of necrosis in the liver, even when administered at the delayed time point of 8 h after APAP exposure. Overdose of APAP is the most common cause of acute hepatic injury and liver transplant need in the United States, and is treated with large doses of NAC administered rapidly within 8 h of overdose leading to systemic side effects and poor tolerance. NAC is not effective when treatment is delayed. Our results suggest that D4‐Gal is effective in targeting and delivering therapies to hepatocytes and Gal‐D‐NAC has the potential to salvage and treat liver injury with a broader therapeutic window.
Thrombocytopenia with Impella: Not a HIT
Authors: Seto Arnold H. , Kern Morton J.
Published: February 2023

Key Points

The Impella percutaneous microaxial ventricular assist device provides significant ventricular unloading, but at the cost of increased major bleeding, hemolysis, and thrombocytopenia.

The present study shows that nearly all patients develop thrombocytopenia within 7 days of Impella insertion with 81% having a >50% decrease. Platelet recovery occurs following device removal.

Recognition of Impella‐related thrombocytopenia can reduce the concern for heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia and avoid the potential risks of direct thrombin inhibitors.
Transcatheter arterial embolization of the common hepatic artery for pseudoaneurysm after a laparoscopic‐assisted pancreaticoduodenectomy: A case report
Authors: Xu Lifeng , Yang Bo , Gu Guosheng , Li Yongxiang
Published: February 2023

Common hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare and potentially life‐threatening complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy, and the possible cause is unclear. We report a case of intraperitoneal hemorrhage after pancreaticoduodenectomy who was discharged after embolization under digital subtraction angiography. We conside that this complication may be related to iatrogenic injury.
Eculizumab‐related drug reaction in a patient with neuromyelitis optica
Authors: Sharma Rishi , Romo Moises , Nelson Flavia
Published: February 2023

Eculizumab is approved for treatment of antibody positive neuromyelitis optica, myasthenia gravis, and hematologic disorders like paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. Drug rash has not yet been reported as a side effect of eculizumab. We report a case of a cutaneous drug reaction soon after introduction of eculizumab therapy in a patient with refractory neuromyelitis optica. Clinicians should be aware of a drug reaction as a possible adverse reaction to eculizumab.
Total thyroidectomy in a patient awaiting heart transplant with amiodarone‐induced thyrotoxicosis: A case report
Authors: Amador Filipa , Mendonça Fernando , da Costa Catarina , Canha Marta , Neves João Sérgio , Pinto Roberto , Amorim Sandra , Souto Selma , Freitas Paula , Carvalho Davide
Published: February 2023

Thyroid function may have a severe impact in cardiac function. Herein, we present the case report of a 53‐year‐old male patient awaiting heart transplant with amiodarone induced thyrotoxicosis that presented a marked improvement of his cardiac function after total thyroidectomy.
Post biopsy delayed liver hemorrhage successfully controlled by bedside CEUS‐guided microwave ablation: A case report
Authors: Zhang Lanxia , Wu Yuxuan , He Xuqi , Zhao Liwen , Li Kai
Published: February 2023

We present a 60‐year‐old man suffering from delayed arterial hemorrhage post liver biopsy. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound was used to detect the bleeding point and to evaluate the efficacy of microwave ablation (MWA). The hemorrhage was controlled by MWA at the bedside. This is the first application of MWA for delayed hemorrhage.
Massive left atrial calcification
Authors: Monden Masaki , Fukamachi Daisuke , Matsumoto Naoya , Okumura Yasuo
Published: February 2023

We reported this case because calcification of the mitral valve is a common complication of rheumatic fever, but calcification of the left atrium is rare.
Open castration in dromedary camel through two scrotal incisions: A case report
Authors: Adugna Solomon Amente , Kitessa Jiregna Dugassa
Published: February 2023

Most of the time, castration is an elective procedure performed to make the camel docile and manage its behavior. There are also instances, where it is performed as a treatment of testicular abnormalities such as orchitis, irreparable traumatic injuries, and tumors. In the current study, a 7‐year‐old bull dromedary camel was brought to Addis Ababa University College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Feseha Gebre Ab VTH, with a history of recurrent swelling of the left testicle for a month. Based on history and clinical examination, the case was diagnosed as unilateral orchitis and admitted for open castration of both testes. Two percent lidocaine hydrochloride was injected into each testicle to provide a spermatic nerve block, and then, two parallel incisions were made through the scrotal skin on either side of the median raphe. The testicles were pulled out through these incisions, ligated, and transected. The scrotal incisions were left open to heal by themselves. Postoperatively, antibiotic and anti‐inflammatory drugs were administered for 3 successive days. Finally, the camel was regularly followed for 1 week and recovers uneventfully.
Visible Light‐Triggered Radical Annulation of ortho‐Thioaryl Ynones: A General Approach to Prepare 3‐Sulfenylthiochromones
Authors: Bartz Ricardo H. , Silva Krigor B. , Santos Rafaela R. S. A. , Peglow Thiago J. , Lenardão Eder J. , Iglesias Bernardo A. , Penteado Filipe , Perin Gelson , Jacob Raquel G.
Published: February 2023

A visible light‐mediated protocol was developed for the construction of 3‐sulfenylthiochromenones by a radical annulation of ortho‐thioaryl ynones. The reaction is triggered by a sulfur‐centered radical, which is formed through the light excitation of an intramolecular electron donor‐acceptor complex (EDA‐complex). A total of twenty‐one compounds were prepared, in poor to excellent yields (28–98 %), sixteen of which are unprecedented. The reactions were conducted under open‐air conditions, not requiring metal catalysts, oxidant species, or heating, making this a mild and environmentally friendly approach to access valuable compounds.
A review on catalyst development for conventional thermal dry reforming of methane at low temperature
Authors: Zhou Rufan , Mahinpey Nader
Published: February 2023

Carbon dioxide (CO2) utilization and conversion, as one of the main parts of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), is not only considered an important way to mitigate global warming but also an attractive industrial route to produce valuable fuels and chemical feedstocks. Catalytic dry reforming of methane (DRM) is a promising technology for carbon dioxide utilization and conversion as it can produce syngas, carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen (H2) for widespread industrial production processes. In most studies of the DRM reaction, a relatively high operational temperature (i.e., >700°C) has been applied since the reactivity limitation of widely used Ni‐based catalysts at low temperatures and the extremely endothermic property of the DRM reaction. However, high cost and high requirement of thermal stability for catalysts have become a severe problem impeding the further commercialization of DRM technology. Decreasing the operational temperature (i.e., <700°C) is considered a promising way for further application of the DRM route to convert CO2 and produce syngas. However, traditional Ni‐based catalysts suffered from unsatisfied reactivity and severe coke formation, leading to quick deactivation at low temperatures. Developing a catalyst with excellent catalytic activity, coke resistance, and improved thermal stability is necessary for low‐temperature DRM reactions. In recent years, with significant development in materials, catalyst design, and computational simulation, some synthesized catalysts have achieved considerable improvement in catalytic performance in low‐temperature DRM. Hence, a review of recent development on low‐temperature DRM catalysts is provided here to further guide and profoundly understand catalyst design for low‐temperature DRM.
The Metacognitions about Binge Eating Questionnaire: Investigation of the association between specific metacognitions and Binge Eating Disorder
Authors: Palmieri S. , Mansueto G. , Marchant A. P. , Sassaroli S. , Caselli G. , Ruggiero G. M. , Spada M. M.
Published: February 2023

Literature suggested that metacognitions are involved in eating problems and may be relevant to the understanding of Binge Eating Disorder (BED). The goal of the current studies was to develop the first self‐report instrument on metacognitions about binge eating. In Study 1, a community sample completed the Metacognitions about Binge Eating Questionnaire (MBEQ); an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was performed. In study 2, a community sample completed the MBEQ and measures assessing severity of binge eating, irrational food beliefs, anxiety, depression, impulsiveness. A Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was performed. Concurrent and incremental validity were assessed. In study 3, a clinical sample of participants with a diagnosis of BED completed the MBEQ and other measures. Bivariate correlational analysis and hierarchical linear regression were performed. Participants from the general population and participants with a diagnosis of BED were compared. EFA and CFA supported a two‐factor solution consisting of positive and negative metacognitions about binge eating. Concurrent and incremental validity were acceptable. The metacognitions factors correlated positively with anxiety, depression, irrational food beliefs, impulsiveness in the community sample, and anxiety, irrational food beliefs, impulsiveness in clinical sample. The metacognitions factors contributed to the prediction of BEDs symptoms, in community and clinical samples, over and above age, gender, impulsiveness, anxiety, depression, irrational food beliefs. The MBEQ possesses good psychometric properties and appears a reliable and valid measure of positive and negative metacognitions about binge eating. Metacognitions about binge eating could be a therapeutic target to reduce the severity of binge eating episodes.
In vitro metabolite identification of acetylbenzylfentanyl, benzoylbenzylfentanyl, 3‐fluoro‐methoxyacetylfentanyl, and 3‐phenylpropanoylfentanyl using LC‐QTOF‐HRMS together with synthesized references
Authors: Rautio Tobias , Vangerven Daan , Dahlén Johan , Watanabe Shimpei , Kronstrand Robert , Vikingsson Svante , Konradsson Peter , Wu Xiongyu , Gréen Henrik
Published: February 2023

Acetylbenzylfentanyl, benzoylbenzylfentanyl, 3‐fluoro‐methoxyacetylfentanyl, and 3‐phenylpropanoylfentanyl are fentanyl analogs that have been reported to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction in recent years. The aim of this study was to identify metabolic pathways and potential biomarker metabolites of these fentanyl analogs. The compounds were incubated (5 μM) with cryopreserved hepatocytes for up to 5 h in vitro. Metabolites were analyzed with liquid chromatography–quadrupole time of flight–high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC‐QTOF‐HRMS). The experiments showed that acetylbenzylfentanyl, benzoylbenzylfentanyl, and 3‐phenylpropanoylfentanyl were mainly metabolized through N‐dealkylation (forming nor‐metabolites) and 3‐fluoro‐methoxyacetylfentanyl mainly through demethylation. Other observed metabolites were formed by mono‐/dihydroxylation, dihydrodiol formation, demethylation, dehydrogenation, amide hydrolysis, and/or glucuronidation. The experiments showed that a large number of metabolites of 3‐phenylpropanoylfentanyl were formed. The exact position of hydroxy groups in formed monohydroxy metabolites could not be established solely based upon recorded MSMS spectra of hepatocyte samples. Therefore, potential monohydroxy metabolites of 3‐phenylpropanoylfentanyl, with the hydroxy group in different positions, were synthesized and analyzed together with the hepatocyte samples. This approach could reveal that the β position of the phenylpropanoyl moiety was highly favored; β‐OH‐phenylpropanoylfentanyl was the most abundant metabolite after the nor‐metabolite. Both metabolites have the potential to serve as biomarkers for 3‐phenylpropanoylfentanyl. The nor‐metabolites of acetylbenzylfentanyl, benzoylbenzylfentanyl, and 3‐fluoro‐methoxyacetylfentanyl do also seem to be suitable biomarker metabolites, as do the demethylated metabolite of 3‐fluoro‐methoxyacetylfentanyl. Identified metabolic pathways and formed metabolites were in agreement with findings in previous studies of similar fentanyl analogs.
Improved assessment of baseline and additionality for forest carbon crediting
Authors: Randazzo Nina A. , Gordon Doria R. , Hamburg Steven P.
Published: February 2023

In the California compliance cap‐and‐trade carbon market, improved forest management (IFM) projects generate carbon credits in the initial reporting period if their initial carbon stocks are greater than a baseline. This baseline is informed by a “common practice” stocking value, which represents the average carbon stocks of surveyed privately owned forests that are classified into the same general forest type by the California Air Resources Board. Recent work has called attention to the need for more ecologically informed common practice carbon stocking values for IFM projects, particularly those in areas with sharp ecological gradients. Current methods for estimating common practice produce biases in baseline carbon values that lead to a clustering of IFM projects in geographical areas and ecosystem types that in fact support much greater forest carbon stocks than reflected in the common practice. This phenomenon compromises additionality, or the increases in carbon sequestration or decreases in carbon emissions that would not have occurred in the absence of carbon crediting. This study seeks to expand upon recent work on this topic and establish unbiased common practice estimates along sharp ecological gradients using methods that do not rely upon discrete forest classification. We generated common practice values for credited IFM projects in the Southern Cascades using a principal components analysis on species composition over an extensive forest inventory to determine the ecological similarity between inventoried forests and IFM project sites. Our findings strengthen the results of recent research suggesting common practice bias and adverse selection. At several sites, even after controlling for private ownership, 100% of the initial carbon stocks could be explained by ecological variables. This result means that improved management did not preserve or increase carbon stocks above what was typical, suggesting that no carbon offsets should have been issued for these sites. This result reveals greater bias than that been found at project sites in this region by research that has used discrete forest categorization.
Agroecological measures in meadows promote honey bee colony development and winter survival
Authors: Hernandez Julie , Varennes Yann‐David , Aebi Alexandre , Dietemann Vincent , Kretzschmar André
Published: February 2023

The homogenization of agricultural landscapes has led to a decrease in pollinator diversity and abundance. In response to this decline, farmers have implemented agroecological measures, which, in meadows, aim at providing more floral resources. These measures are the availability of unmown floral strips, delayed mowing, and discouraging the use of the conditioner, a device known to harm insects. The aim of our study was to investigate the cascade of effects of these agroecological measures on honey bee colony development and winter survival. We (1) determined the effect of these measures on colony size during the nectar and pollen collecting season in spring and summer, (2) evaluated the effect of spring and summer colony sizes on autumn size, and (3) described the effect of colony size in autumn on winter mortality. In this study, 300 honey bee colonies were monitored over three years in three cantons of Switzerland. Colony size was defined by the numbers of brood cells and of adult workers. Honey bee colony size in summer and autumn was improved by agroecological measures on meadows and likely contributed to the increased overwintering success. This study is a first step toward the targeted identification of viable agroecological measures on temporary meadows that can be implemented to promote honey bee colonies health in the agricultural landscape.
The fluvial grain‐size gap: Experimental confirmation of hydraulic origin
Authors: Church Michael , Hassan Marwan A.
Published: February 2023

The origin of the well‐known ‘grain size gap’ within the size range 1–10 mm in fluvial gravels is explored in a laboratory experiment to ascertain the effect of hydraulic sorting. A widely graded sand/gravel mixture was fed into a flume containing a bed composed of the same sediment mixture. The rate of sediment feed was varied but the water flow remained constant throughout the experiment at a rate that sustained size‐selective bedload transport with negligible suspension. We observed persistent deposition of the coarsest sediments (+16 mm) due to lack of competence to mobilize these sizes, partial entrapment of the finest sizes (−1 mm) in interstices of the gravel bed, and preferred transport of the intermediate sizes, including uptake of grains from the bed, establishing the conditions for development of the grain size gap.
Modeling and forecasting percent changes in national park visitation using social media
Authors: Goebel Russell , Schmaltz Austin , Brackett Beth Ann , Wood Spencer A. , Noguchi Kimihiro
Published: February 2023

National parks have tremendous cultural, ecological, and economic value to societies. In order to manage and maintain these public spaces, decision‐makers rely on detailed information about park use and park condition. Many parks, however, lack precise visitor counts because of challenges associated with monitoring large and inaccessible areas with porous boundaries. To facilitate better management, we propose a method to estimate percentage changes in park visitation without using any on‐site visitor counts. Specifically, using 20 national parks in the United States, we develop a time series model for forecasting future monthly changes in visitation based on the volume of social media images shared by visitors to parks. Forecasts are generated from historic park‐level and national‐level photo‐user‐days (PUD) of images posted to Flickr, using singular spectrum analysis (SSA). We further propose an approach for augmenting existing on‐site visitation data collected by the US National Park Service. Our model evaluations indicate that the proposed model that only uses social media data achieves competitive performance to the models which partially or fully utilizes on‐site visitor counts.