bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement batch differences and between‐batch conversion of Alzheimer's disease cerebrospinal fluid biomarker values
Authors: Ma Yue , Norton Derek L. , Van Hulle Carol A. , Chappell Richard J. , Lazar Karen K. , Jonaitis Erin M. , Koscik Rebecca L. , Clark Lindsay R. , Krause Rachel , Andreasson Ulf , Chin Nathaniel A. , Bendlin Barbara B. , Asthana Sanjay , Okonkwo Ozioma C. , Gleason Carey E. , Johnson Sterling C. , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Carlsson Cynthia M.
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Batch differences in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker measurement can introduce bias into analyses for Alzheimer's disease studies. We evaluated and adjusted for batch differences using statistical methods.

Methods

A total of 792 CSF samples from 528 participants were assayed in three batches for 12 biomarkers and 3 biomarker ratios. Batch differences were assessed using Bland‐Altman plot, paired t test, Pitman‐Morgan test, and linear regression. Generalized linear models were applied to convert CSF values between batches.

Results

We found statistically significant batch differences for all biomarkers and ratios, except that neurofilament light was comparable between batches 1 and 2. The conversion models generally had high R2 except for converting P‐tau between batches 1 and 3.

Discussion

Between‐batch conversion allows harmonized CSF values to be used in the same analysis. Such method may be applied to adjust for other sources of variability in measuring CSF or other types of biomarkers.
The relationships of sex hormone‐binding globulin, total testosterone, androstenedione and free testosterone with metabolic and reproductive features of polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Simons Pomme I. H. G. , Valkenburg Olivier , Bons Judith A. P. , Stehouwer Coen D. A. , Brouwers Martijn C. G. J.
Published: May 2021

Objective

A recent Mendelian randomization study has suggested a causal role for sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG), total testosterone and free testosterone in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The aim of this study was to assess the relationships of SHBG, androstenedione, total and free testosterone with the individual metabolic and reproductive features of PCOS.

Design

Cross‐sectional data in PCOS patients (n=96) prospectively collected in a secondary/tertiary clinic for menstrual cycle disorders.

Methods

Multivariable regression analyses were conducted to study the associations between SHBG, androstenedione, total and free testosterone with metabolic (BMI, waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance [HOMA2‐IR]) and reproductive features (menstrual cycle length, antral follicle count, anti‐Müllerian hormone, luteinizing hormone, follicle‐stimulating hormone and Ferriman‐Gallwey score) of PCOS.

Results

Serum SHBG and free testosterone, but not total testosterone or androstenedione, were significantly associated with BMI, waist circumference, serum triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and HOMA2‐IR. The strength of the associations with serum lipids was reduced after adjustment for BMI, but not for HOMA2‐IR. Total testosterone was significantly associated with antral follicle count. SHBG, total testosterone and androstenedione were significantly associated with serum AMH. Only the strength of the association for SHBG was reduced after adjustment for BMI.

Conclusions

Serum SHBG is associated with primarily metabolic features, whereas total testosterone and androstenedione are associated with reproductive features of PCOS. These results suggest a differential underlying pathophysiology for the metabolic and reproductive features of PCOS.
Use of diuretics and outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes: findings from the EMPA‐REG OUTCOME trial
Authors: Pellicori Pierpaolo , Fitchett David , Kosiborod Mikhail N. , Ofstad Anne P. , Seman Leo , Zinman Bernard , Zwiener Isabella , Wanner Christoph , George Jyothis , Inzucchi Silvio E. , Testani Jeffrey M. , Cleland John G.F.
Published: May 2021

Aims

Loop diuretics (LD) relieve symptoms and signs of congestion due to heart failure (HF), but many patients prescribed LD do not have such a diagnosis. We studied the relationship between HF diagnosis, use of LD, and outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) enrolled in the EMPA‐REG OUTCOME trial.

Methods and results

The relationship between HF diagnosis, use of LD, and outcomes was evaluated in four patient subgroups with T2DM: (i) investigator‐reported HF on LD, (ii) investigator‐reported HF not on LD, (iii) no HF on LD, and (iv) no HF and not on LD, and we assessed their risk of cardiovascular events. Of 7020 participants, 706 (10%) had a diagnosis of HF at baseline, of whom 334 were prescribed LD. However, 755 (11%) patients who did not have a diagnosis of HF were prescribed LD. Compared to those with neither HF nor prescribed LD (reference group; placebo), those with both HF and receiving LD had the highest rates for all‐cause [hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidence interval) 3.19 (2.03–5.01)] and cardiovascular mortality [3.83 [(2.28–6.44)], and HF hospitalizations [9.51 (5.61–16.14)]. Patients without HF but prescribed LD had higher rates for all three outcomes [1.62 (1.10–2.39); 1.97 (1.26–3.08); 3.20 (1.90–5.39)], which were similar to patients with HF who were not receiving LD [1.42 (0.78–2.57); 1.56 (0.78–3.11); 3.00 (1.40–6.40)]. Empagliflozin had similar benefits regardless of subgroup (P for interaction >0.1 for all outcomes).

Conclusion

Patients with T2DM prescribed LD are at greater risk of cardiovascular events even if they are not reported to have HF; this might reflect under‐diagnosis. Empagliflozin was similarly effective in all subgroups investigated.
Inertial focusing of microparticles, bacteria, and blood in serpentine glass channels
Authors: Rodriguez‐Mateos Pablo , Ngamsom Bongkot , Dyer Charlotte E. , Iles Alexander , Pamme Nicole
Published: May 2021

Early detection of pathogenic microorganisms is pivotal to diagnosis and prevention of health and safety crises. Standard methods for pathogen detection often rely on lengthy culturing procedures, confirmed by biochemical assays, leading to >24 h for a diagnosis. The main challenge for pathogen detection is their low concentration within complex matrices. Detection of blood‐borne pathogens via techniques such as PCR requires an initial positive blood culture and removal of inhibitory blood components, reducing its potential as a diagnostic tool. Among different label‐free microfluidic techniques, inertial focusing on microscale channels holds great promise for automation, parallelization, and passive continuous separation of particles and cells. This work presents inertial microfluidic manipulation of small particles and cells (1–10 μm) in curved serpentine glass channels etched at different depths (deep and shallow designs) that can be exploited for (1) bacteria preconcentration from biological samples and (2) bacteria‐blood cell separation. In our shallow device, the ability to focus Escherichia coli into the channel side streams with high recovery (89% at 2.2× preconcentration factor) could be applied for bacteria preconcentration in urine for diagnosis of urinary tract infections. Relying on differential equilibrium positions of red blood cells and E. coli inside the deep device, 97% red blood cells were depleted from 1:50 diluted blood with 54% E. coli recovered at a throughput of 0.7 mL/min. Parallelization of such devices could process relevant volumes of 7 mL whole blood in 10 min, allowing faster sample preparation for downstream molecular diagnostics of bacteria present in bloodstream.
A novel air plasma electrolysis with direct air injection in plasma zone to produce nitrate in degradation of organic textile dye
Authors: Farawan Bening , Yusharyahya Riedo Devara , Gozan Misri , Saksono Nelson
Published: May 2021

Nitrogen is one of the essential nutrients for plants. Even though its availability in the air is abundant, it cannot be utilized yet due to its structure. Plasma electrolysis by air injection is effectively degrade organic textile dyes waste. In this study we propose a novel air plasma electrolysis (APE) where direct air injection into plasma zone inside electrolysis plasma can converts air into nitrate, while simultaneously the degradation of dyes waste produces organic nitrogen. Degradation of organic textile dye by APE can also transform nitrogen‐rich organic wastewater into nitrogen fertilizers. In this experiment, Remazol red as a compound in the azo dye group was used as a model for organic textile dye wastewater. Air plasma electrolysis reactor equipped with a stainless‐steel cathode, a tungsten anode, with various air injection rates and electric power. The results show 99.82% Remazol red degradation and 41.41 mmol of nitrate production. Preliminary efficacy tests on tomato plants showed that the nitrogen fertilizers produced from Remazol red produce the best plant growth. This study shows that APE simultaneously reduces organic textile dye waste, transforms them into potential organic fertilizer, and at the same time, synthesizes nitrates.
Numerical and asymptotic study of heat source/sink using Maxwell fluid near nonaxisymmetric Homann stagnation‐point flow
Authors: Sajid Muhammad , Jagwal Muhammad R. , Ahmad Iftikhar , Sadiq Muhammad N.
Published: May 2021

In this manuscript, heat transfer analysis of a nonaxisymmetric Homann stagnation‐point flow of a Maxwell fluid is performed using a heat source and sink. The governed system of partial equations is reduced to the system of ordinary equations by employing the similarity variables. The numerical and asymptotic results are computed by employing the shooting technique. The effects of various parameters are analyzed on velocity and temperature profiles. Numerical results for skin friction coefficient and Nusselt number are computed for different involved parameters. The sound effects of ( is the shear rate and is strain rate) are examined for different profiles over . Solutions for diverse values of heat source/sink parameter , Deborah number , and are obtained. Local Nusselt number and wall shear stress parameter are compared with their large‐ asymptotic behavior. It is found through analysis that the heat transfer rate increases for Deborah and Prandtl number . However, the addition of a source declines the heat transfer rate, whereas the sink enhances the heat transfer rate. However, the temperature of the fluid decreases as and increase. Meanwhile, the temperature of the fluid increases as increases.
Toll‐like receptors in neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and alcohol‐induced brain damage
Authors: Pascual María , Calvo‐Rodriguez Maria , Núñez Lucía , Villalobos Carlos , Ureña Juan , Guerri Consuelo
Published: May 2021

Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) or pattern recognition receptors respond to pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) or internal damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). TLRs are integral membrane proteins with both extracellular leucine‐rich and cytoplasmic domains that initiate downstream signaling through kinases by activating transcription factors like AP‐1 and NF‐κB, which lead to the release of various inflammatory cytokines and immune modulators. In the central nervous system, different TLRs are expressed mainly in microglia and astroglial cells, although some TLRs are also expressed in oligodendroglia and neurons. Activation of TLRs triggers signaling cascades by the host as a defense mechanism against invaders to repair damaged tissue. However, overactivation of TLRs disrupts the sustained immune homeostasis‐induced production of pro‐inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines, miRNAs, and inflammatory components of extracellular vesicles. These inflammatory mediators can, in turn, induce neuroinflammation, and neural tissue damage associated with many neurodegenerative diseases. This review discusses the critical role of TLRs response in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, ischemic stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and alcohol‐induced brain damage and neurodegeneration.
Multivariate fractional integration tests allowing for conditional heteroskedasticity with an application to return volatility and trading volume
Authors: Balboa Marina , Rodrigues Paulo M. M. , Rubia Antonio , Taylor A. M. Robert
Published: May 2021

We introduce a new joint test for the order of fractional integration of a multivariate fractionally integrated vector autoregressive (FIVAR) time series based on applying the Lagrange multiplier principle to a feasible generalised least squares estimate of the FIVAR model obtained under the null hypothesis. A key feature of the test we propose is that it is constructed using a heteroskedasticity‐robust estimate of the variance matrix. As a result, the test has a standardχ2limiting null distribution under considerably weaker conditions on the innovations than are permitted in the extant literature. Specifically, we allow the innovations driving the FIVAR model to follow a vector martingale difference sequence allowing for both serial and cross‐sectional dependence in the conditional second‐order moments. We also do not constrain the order of fractional integration of each element of the series to lie in a particular region, thereby allowing for both stationary and non‐stationary dynamics, nor do we assume any particular distribution for the innovations. A Monte Carlo study demonstrates that our proposed tests avoid the large oversizing problems seen with extant tests when conditional heteroskedasticity is present in the data. We report an empirical case study for a sample of major US stocks investigating the order of fractional integration in trading volume and different measures of volatility in returns, including realised variance. Our results suggest that both return volatility and trading volume are fractionally integrated, but with the former generally found to be more persistent (having a higher fractional exponent) than the latter, when more reliable proxies for volatility such as the range or realised variance are used.
Immunoadsorption in a dog with severe immune mediated hemolytic anemia
Authors: Richter Petra , Fischer Hendryk , Dörfelt René
Published: May 2021

Immune mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is a life‐threatening disease with severe, acute hemolysis as a result of an autoimmune response directed against erythrocyte surface antigens. In veterinary medicine, IMHA is usually treated with immunosuppressants and often multiple blood transfusions. In human medicine, immunoadsorption (IA) is an established therapy for antibody removal in immune‐mediated diseases. A female, spayed, five‐year‐old, 28 kg Entlebucher Mountain dog was presented with regenerative anemia and positive autoagglutination diagnosed as immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia to the veterinary emergency service. Conventional treatment consisting immunosuppression with prednisolone and mycophenolate failed to improve hemolysis. As hematocrit dropped daily, multiple blood transfusions of blood group DEA 1 negative were required. IA was initiated at day 3 with COM.TEC and ADAsorb platforms and a LIGASORBstaphylococcus antitoxin A column. IA with citrate anticoagulation was performed over the treatment time of 77 minutes with a blood flow of 50 mL/min. Total plasma volume of 1.6 L was processed. Complications consisted of vomitus and lid swelling, shivering, excessive clotting in the tubing after a calcium bolus and hypotension. After IA, hemolysis stopped immediately, plasma concentrations of immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin M and bilirubin decreased, and hematocrit remained stable. The dog was discharged without further hemolysis 4 days after immunoadsorption with immunosuppressive therapy. IA is a promising adjunctive therapy in severe cases of canine IMHA, but it cannot be concluded to which degree IA or concurrent immunosuppression contributed to cessation of hemolysis in the present case.
A risk score based on procalcitonin for predicting acute kidney injury in COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Wang Ruo Ran , He Min , Kang Yan
Published: May 2021

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) has been reported developing commonly in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients and could increase the risk of poor outcomes in these patients. We design this study to explore the value of serum procalcitonin (PCT) on predicting AKI and construct risk score for predicting AKI in COVID‐19 patients.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with COVID‐19 and hospitalized in Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University between January 30 and February 24, 2020, were included. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was performed to identify the strongest predictors of AKI. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to find independent risk factors for AKI and construct risk score using odds ratio (OR) value of those risk factors. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were plotted, and area under the ROC curve (AUC) value was calculated to evaluate the predictive value of single PCT level and the constructed risk score.

Results

Among 389 included COVID‐19 patients, 28 (7.2%) patients developed AKI. LASSO regression showed hypertension, saturation of arterial oxygen (SaO2), PCT, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were the strongest predictors for AKI. After multivariate logistic regression analysis, only SaO2 (<0.001), PCT (p = 0.004), and BUN (p = 0.005) were independently associated with development of AKI in COVID‐19 patients. The AUC of single PCT and constructed risk score was 0. 881 and 0.928, respectively.

Conclusion

PCT level is correlated with AKI in COVID‐19 patients. The efficient risk score consisted of SaO2, PCT, and BUN is readily accessible for physicians to evaluate the possibility of AKI in COVID‐19 patients.
Incident reporting among physicians‐in‐training in Japan: A national survey
Authors: Kurihara Masaru , Nagao Yoshimasa , Tokuda Yasuharu
Published: May 2021

Background

Incident reporting can inform hospital safety. However, under‐reporting is preventing this.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide survey among Japanese physicians‐in‐training by including a questionnaire in the General Medicine In‐Training Examination to assess incident reporting behavior and participation in patient safety lectures.

Results

Responses of 6,164 physicians‐in‐training indicated that although 78% had attended patient safety lectures, 44% had not submitted an incident report in the previous year and 40.6% did not know how to submit an incident report.

Conclusions

The discrepancy between attendance at safety courses and incident reporting behavior must be addressed to improve hospital safety.
Comparative study of three fingerprint analytical approaches based on spectroscopic sensors and chemometrics for the detection and quantification of argan oil adulteration
Authors: El Orche Aimen , Elhamdaoui Omar , Cheikh Amine , Zoukeni Brahim , El Karbane Miloud , Mbarki Mohamed , Bouatia Mustapha
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Argan oil is one of the purest and rarest oils in the world, so that the addition of any further product is strictly prohibited by international regulations. Consequently, it is necessary to establish reliable analytical methods to ensure its authenticity. In this study, three multivariate approaches have been developed and validated using fluorescence, UV–visible, and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform mid‐infrared (FT‐MIR) spectroscopies.

RESULTS

The application of a partial least squares discriminant analysis model showed an accuracy of 100%. The quantification of adulteration have been evaluated using partial least squares (PLS) regression. The PLS model developed from fluorescence spectroscopy provided the best results for the calibration and cross‐validation sets, as it showed the highest R2 (0.99) and the lowest root mean square error of calibration and cross‐validation (0.55, 0.79). The external validation of the three multivariate approaches by the accuracy profile shows that these approaches guarantee reliable and valid results of 0.5–32%, 7–32%, and 10–32% using fluorescence, FT‐MIR and UV–visible spectroscopies respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study confirmed the feasibility of using spectroscopic sensors (routine technique) for rapid determination of argan oil falsification. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effect of global uncertainty on international arrivals by purpose of visits and length of stay
Authors: Gozgor Giray , Seetaram Neelu , Lau Chi Keung Marco
Published: May 2021

This paper investigates the effects of economic and political uncertainties on tourism demand using the ‘World Uncertainty Index’ (WUI). This index is more a sophisticated and reliable measure of global uncertainty than previous indices used by the literature. The findings show that uncertainty shocks affect travels for business, holidays, and visiting friends/relatives purposes negatively. It is statistically significant for duration of stay of 1 week to less than one month in Australia. This effect dissipates for longer stays. This study provides insightful information to destinations on how consumers adjust their behaviour during period of political and economic uncertainty.
The effects of spirituality on visitor behavior: A cognitive‐affective‐conative model
Authors: Kim Bona , Chen Yong
Published: May 2021

This study applies the cognitive‐affective‐conative (CAC) model to develop an analytical framework of visitor experience with a sacred site. Furthermore, the framework that contains key variables of visitor experience, particularly spirituality, is tested in both senior and non‐senior groups. Since seniors and non‐seniors would behave differently with regard to spirituality, this analysis allows us to further identify the role of spirituality in visitor behavior especially with regard to a sacred destination. The results show that spirituality is crucial in associating individuals' emotional status with their behavior, eventually leading to a change in individuals' life satisfaction and loyalty in pilgrimage experience.
Retrospective Single‐Center Comparative Analysis of Ultrasound‐Guided Versus Non‐ultrasound‐Guided Nerve Blocks in Extremity Surgeries
Authors: Zhang Jian‐Feng , Zhang Li , Li Yong , Huo Yong‐Xin , Wang Hui , Wang Lei , Wang Bao‐Cang
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Although ultrasound‐guided peripheral nerve blocks have become increasingly popular, it is arguable at present whether ultrasound guidance is a necessary tool for peripheral nerve blocks. The purpose of this study was to assess the significance of ultrasound‐guided peripheral nerve blocks in reducing complications.

Methods

From January 2013 to January 2019, 17,823 patients who underwent peripheral nerve blocks with/without ultrasound guidance were reviewed, recording data on their age, sex, height, weight, American Society of Anesthesiologists, block type, operation type, operation duration, and complications. The patients were divided into 2 groups: 9372 cases with ultrasound guidance (US Group) and 8451 cases without ultrasound guidance (No‐US Group). To control selection bias, a total of 16,236 patients were finally included in this study after 1:1 propensity score matching, including 8118 cases in the US Group and 8118 cases in the No‐US Group. Outcome measures included local anesthetic systemic toxicity (LAST), nerve injury, incomplete block anesthesia (IBA), local hematoma, and infection at the block site.

Results

Baseline characteristics of patients were similar between the two groups (P >.05, respectively). Our study revealed that the incidence of infection was similar between the two groups (P >.05). However, the incidences of LAST, nerve injury, IBA, and local hematoma in the US Group were significantly lower than those in the No‐US Group (P <.05, respectively).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that ultrasound‐guided peripheral nerve blocks are associated with fewer complications and higher success rates, compared with the paresthesia approach.
Lateral neck multilevel fine‐needle aspiration cytology and thyroglobulin estimation in papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Song Yuntao , Xu Guohui , Wang Tianxiao , Zhang Bin
Published: May 2021

Objective

To assess the accuracy of preoperative ultrasound‐guided multilevel fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) cytology and thyroglobulin (Tg) estimation in mapping metastatic levels in the lateral neck, in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).

Methods

Patients with PTC clinically metastasizing to the lateral neck who were initially treated at the Peking University Cancer Hospital from June 2018 to September 2020 were included. FNA was performed preoperatively in each suspicious neck level; cytological examination (FNA‐C) and Tg measurement of the needle‐washout fluid (FNA‐Tg) were combined to determine metastasis. FNA‐Tg cutoff value was calculated, and the accuracy of FNA at different levels were evaluated.

Results

In total, 111 patients underwent 124 lymph node dissections. The best cutoff value of FNA‐Tg for the diagnosis of metastatic level was 1.0 ng/mL. Multilevel FNA showed sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value in predicting single‐level metastasis of 100%, 61.0%, 43.9%, and 100%, respectively. In 64 (51.6%) cases, the involved levels diagnosed by FNA were consistent with that diagnosed by postoperative pathology.

Conclusion

FNA‐Tg improves the diagnostic performance of FNA‐C in lateral neck lymph node metastases. However, limited accuracy was obtained for preoperative multilevel FNA in predicting the extent of metastasis in the lateral compartment.
Microscopic Deformation Behavior and Crack Resistance Mechanism of Core–Shell Structures in Highly‐Toughened PP/PA6/EPDM‐g‐MA Ternary Blends
Authors: Mehrabi‐Mazidi Majid , Razavi‐Aghjeh Mir Karim
Published: May 2021

Highly‐toughened blends, comprising polypropylene, polyamide 6, and maleic anhydride‐grafted ethylene‐propylene‐diene monomer rubber (PP/PA6/EPDM‐g‐MA), of core–shell morphology are prepared and impact of microstructural development, at different PA6:EPDM‐g‐MA weight ratios (fixed at 30 wt%), on macroscopic mechanical and fracture characteristics of blends is studied through in‐depth analysis of micromechanical deformations operating in the blends. The role of dispersion state of modifier domains on nucleation and evolution of various microscopic deformations accompanying the fracture process under impact and quasi‐static fracture tests is closely examined. Increase in EPDM‐g‐MA:PA6 ratio develops agglomerated core–shell domains in the form of extended island‐like structures. While impact data show significant synergistic toughening effect of dispersed composite domains in ternary blends compared with PP/EPDM‐g‐MA (70/30) binary blend, fracture works show a sole dependence on rubbery fraction. Fractography examinations reveal deformation of dispersed domains, development of multiple voids, and highly deformed craze‐like void‐fibrillar structures within core–shell structures as well as at their interfaces with surrounding matrix. The importance of deformation zones in activation and promotion of matrix shear yielding is clarified, while their function as crack nucleation and subsequent crack propagation trajectories is highlighted. The stability of void‐fibrillar zones is found essential for extensive plastic deformation and premature failure prevention.
Metabolic profiling analysis of the vitamin B12 producer Propionibacterium freudenreichii
Authors: Liu Jiao , Liu Yongfei , Wu Jie , Fang Huan , Jin Zhaoxia , Zhang Dawei
Published: May 2021

Vitamin B12 (VB12) is an indispensable cofactor of metabolic enzymes and has been widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. In this study, the effects of medium composition on VB12 production by Propionibacterium freudenreichii were evaluated and optimized based on statistical experiments. The results showed that glucose, yeast extract, KH2PO4, and glycine have significant effects on VB12 production. The final titer of VB12 reached 8.32 ± 0.02 mg/L, representing a 120% increase over the non‐optimized culture medium. We employed a metabolomics approach to analyze the differences of metabolite concentrations in P. freudenreichii cells cultivated in the original medium and optimized fermentation medium. Using multivariate data analysis, we identified a range of correlated metabolites, illustrating how metabolomics can be used to explain VB12 production changes by corresponding differences in the overall cellular metabolism. The concentrations of many metabolic intermediates of glycolysis, the Wood–Werkman cycle, the TCA cycle, and amino acid metabolism were increased, which contributed to the synthesis of propionic acid and VB12 due to an improved supply of energy and precursors.
Remark on the optimal time‐decay estimates for the compressible Navier‐Stokes‐Poisson equations without additional smallness assumptions
Authors: Shi Weixuan
Published: May 2021

The present paper is dedicated to the large‐time asymptotic behavior of global strong solutions near constant equilibrium (away from vacuum) to the compressible Navier‐Stokes‐Poisson equations in the Lp critical framework. The proof mainly depends on the pure energy argument without the spectral analysis (for the linearized system), which enables us to remove the usual smallness assumption on low frequencies of initial data. It is improved in comparison with the result of Shi and Xu [J Differ Equ. 2019; 266(10):6426‐6458].
Partial topology identification of tempered fractional‐order complex networks via synchronization method
Authors: Li Zhiming , Ma Weiyuan , Ma Nuri
Published: May 2021

This paper studies the problem of partial topology identification of tempered fractional complex networks. By tempered fractional calculus theory and pinning controlling techniques of network synchronization, we propose a strategy that can greatly reduce the expense of the partial topology identification. This method can also identify the whole topology of tempered fractional complex network. Sufficient conditions are given to guarantee partial topology identification of tempered fractional complex networks by designing suitable controllers and parameters update law. This method can also achieve synchronization between the drive network and the response network. Finally, some numerical experiments are presented to verify the validity of the method.
Crowdsourced logistics: The pickup and delivery problem with transshipments and occasional drivers
Authors: Voigt Stefan , Kuhn Heinrich
Published: May 2021

This article considers a setting in which a courier, express, and parcel service provider operates a fleet of vehicles with regular drivers (RDs) to ship parcels from pickup to delivery points. Additionally, the company uses a platform where occasional drivers (ODs) offer their willingness to take on requests that are on or near the route they had originally planned. There exist transshipment points (TPs) to better integrate these ODs. ODs or RDs may transfer load at these predetermined TPs. The problem is modeled as a mixed‐integer programming model and called pickup and delivery problem with transshipments and occasional drivers (PDPTOD). We develop a solution approach based on an adaptive large neighborhood search. The article provides insights on how the number and location of TPs impact the cost advantages achieved by integrating ODs. It also shows that the cost savings are highly sensitive to the assumed flexibility and compensation scheme.
Peridynamic bond‐associated correspondence model: Wave dispersion property
Authors: Chan WaiLam , Chen Hailong
Published: May 2021

The peridynamic bond‐associated material correspondence model is a reformulation of the conventional correspondence model, in which the concept of bond‐associated states were introduced to inherently remove the material instability. Numerical studies, in terms of deformation analysis, have shown the effectiveness of the bond‐associated model in removing the material instability. In this study, the bond‐associated model is further examined concerning its wave dispersion property. Detailed procedure to derive the wave dispersion relation in this model is outlined. Different combinations of the peridynamic material point horizon and the bond‐associated horizon are studied for all three geometric dimensions. Potential effects of weight function on the wave dispersion property are also investigated. It is found that the bond‐associated material correspondence model can effectively remove the material instability for practical applications. However, for all one‐dimensional cases studied, except the conventional model, the initial slopes of all the wave dispersion curves are slightly larger than that predicted by the classical continuum mechanics model. For two‐dimensional analysis, material instability still exists for the combination of the peridynamic material point horizon being twice of the mesh spacing and the bond‐associated horizon being three times of mesh spacing. But compared to the conventional model, the material instability for this case was slightly improved as the intersections of the wave dispersion curve with the wavenumber axis were reduced from two to one. For the three representative weight functions studied, it is found that the weight function does not significantly change the wave dispersion relation in the bond‐associated material correspondence model, except for the one‐dimensional cases.
A scoping review—Missed nursing care in community healthcare contexts and how it is measured
Authors: Andersson Ingrid , Bååth Carina , Nilsson Jan , Eklund Anna Josse
Published: May 2021

Aim

To examine the extent and nature of missed nursing care in elderly care in community healthcare contexts from the perspective of healthcare staff, and to identify instruments used to measure missed nursing care and the content of these instruments.

Design

Scoping review.

Methods

Searches were conducted in the CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases in March 2020. The selection process followed the PRISMA flow diagram.

Results

Sixteen research papers were found from nine countries. The instruments used in the studies were Basel Extent of Rationing of Nursing Care for nursing homes (BERNCA‐NH), modified MISSCARE survey and study‐specific instruments or items. The item content differed, as did the number of items, which was between one and 44. The studies reported values for missed nursing care, as well as described reasons for and/or the relation between missed nursing care and organization, working climate and patient outcomes.
A subdivision strategy for adjoining cell mapping on the global optimal control in multi‐input‐multi‐output systems
Authors: Cheng Yongdong , Jiang Jun
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a subdivision strategy for the adjoining cell mapping method to solve the global optimal control problems for multi‐input‐multi‐output systems is proposed. The subdivision strategy constructs the discrete optimal control table first by a rough discretization of the state space, which can identify uncontrollable regions. Then the optimal feedback control from the selected initial state is instituted. The rough cells where the feedback control trajectory crosses are subdivided into smaller cells and the finer discrete optimal control table is obtained after the second search. The further discretization of the target cell and control inputs can further enhance the terminate control precision. The calculation can also take the advantage of GPU parallel technology that will greatly enhance the computation efficiency. Two examples illustrate the feasibility and validity of the subdivision strategy to solve optimal control problems for multi‐input‐multi‐output systems. The proposed method offers an efficient alternative numerical way to obtain the approximate optimal control solution with global optimum for nonlinear multi‐input‐multi‐output systems.
Classification and visualization of longitudinal patterns of medication dose: An application to interferon‐beta‐1a and amitriptyline in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Mésidor Miceline , Rousseau Marie‐Claude , Duquette Pierre , Sylvestre Marie‐Pierre
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Describing patterns of use, including changes in dose and interruptions is challenging. Group‐based trajectory modelling (GBTM) can be used to identify individuals with similar dose patterns. We provide an intuitive graphical representation of dose patterns in groups identified using GBTM. We illustrate our approach using two drugs with different combinations of available dosages.

Methods

We drew data on patients with MS followed from 1977 to 2014 in Montréal using two sub‐cohorts of subjects. A sub‐cohort of patients taking interferon‐beta‐1a and another of patients taking amitriptyline were identified from the initial cohort. We use GBTM to identify groups of patients with homogeneous dose patterns for each of the two drugs. We compared the graphical representation obtained from the fitted values of GBTM with our proposed approach, which consisted of using step functions whose values corresponded to the mode. Differences in characteristics across groups were identified using chi‐squares and analysis of variance, both weighted by the posterior probability of group membership.

Results

Seven patterns of dose were identified for interferon‐beta‐1a and five for amitriptyline. The graphical representations of the patterns of dose from GBTM included values outside of the prescribed doses and did not capture changes in dose as clearly as the proposed representation using step functions.

Conclusion

Our proposed approach which is based on the mode at each visit in each pattern provides an intuitive and realistic representation of dose patterns in groups identified with GBTM.
Recent progress in polymer hydrogel bioadhesives
Authors: Pei Xinjie , Wang Jintao , Cong Yang , Fu Jun
Published: May 2021

Adhesive hydrogels have broad applications in tissue adhesives, hemostatic agents, and biomedical sensors. Various bio‐inspired glues and synthetic adhesives are clinically used as conventional hemostatic agents and auxiliary tools for wound closure. Medical adhesives are needed to effectively and quickly control bleeding, thereby reducing the risk of complications caused by severe blood loss. Medical sensors need to have excellent skin compliance, mechanical properties, sensitivity, and biological safety. This review focuses on recent progress in adhesive hydrogel systems, their structures, adhesion mechanisms, construction strategies, and emerging applications in the biomedical field.
A Facile Strategy for Low Young's Modulus PDMS Microbeads Enhanced Flexible Capacitive Pressure Sensors
Authors: Sun Yupeng , Tai Huiling , Yuan Zhen , Duan Zaihua , Huang Qi , Jiang Yadong
Published: May 2021

Flexible pressure sensors are widely demanded in human care systems. A simple and effective strategy for sensor fabrication can markedly promote its application. Herein, a facile strategy is employed to prepare a flexible capacitive pressure sensor with a polydimethylsiloxane microbeads‐modified dielectric layer. Owing to the microbeads structure, the proposed sensor achieves a sensitivity of 0.048 kPa−1 in the range of 0–10 kPa with a wide dynamic range (up to 100 kPa). The sensitivity is nine times higher than that of the planar structure. Moreover, the microbeads structured sensor obtains a low limit of detection (0.2 kPa), fast response time (120 ms), and good stability (variation lower than 3.30% after 1000 loading/unloading cycles at 20 kPa). The finite‐elemental analysis reveals that the microbeads structure is critical to enhance the performance of sensors. Finally, the pressure sensor is successfully applied to detect touch signal, joints movement, and breathing, exhibiting its promising prospects as smart wearable devices. Furthermore, the strategy may provide a new idea for the microstructural design of capacitive pressure sensors.
Prevention is better than cure: Integrating habitat suitability and invasion threat to assess global biological invasion risk by insect pests under climate change
Authors: Marchioro Cesar A , Krechemer Flavia S
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Invasive alien species cause substantial impacts on ecosystem, economy, and public health. Therefore, identifying areas at risk of invasion and establishment is essential for the development and implementation of preventive measures. In this study, we integrated information on species habitat suitability, location of airports and ports, and invasion threat maps to assess global invasion risk under climate change using the cucurbit beetle, Diabrotica speciosa (Germar, 1824), as a model organism.

RESULTS

Suitable and optimal habitats for D. speciosa were estimated in several regions beyond its native range and comprised all continents. A decrease in the extent of suitable and optimal habitats for D. speciosa was predicted in different climate change scenarios, resulting in a reduction in invasion risk in most regions. However, regions such as western Europe and isolated areas in southern Asia and Oceania were predicted to face an increase in invasion risk under climate change. Invasion pathways via airports and ports were identified in all continents.

CONCLUSION

Our findings can be used in the development of phytosanitary measures against D. speciosa in high‐risk areas. Furthermore, the approach used in this study provides a framework for estimating the global risk of invasion by insect pests and other terrestrial organisms in different climate change scenarios. This information can be used by policy makers to develop preventive measures against species with potential to invade and spread in regions beyond their native range. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Compact Magneto‐Fluorescent Colloids by Hierarchical Assembly of Dual‐Components in Radial Channels for Sensitive Point‐of‐Care Immunoassay
Authors: Huang Liang , Zhang Yuxing , Liao Tao , Xu Kui , Jiang Chenxing , Zhuo Dinglv , Wang Yang , Wen Hui‐Min , Wang Jing , Ao Lijiao , Hu Jun
Published: May 2021

Exploring signal amplification strategies to enhance the sensitivity of lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) is of great significance for point‐of‐care (POC) testing of low‐concentrated targets in the field of in vitro diagnostics. Here, a highly‐sensitive LFIA platform using compact and hierarchical magneto–fluorescent assemblies as both target‐enrichment substrates and optical sensing labels is demonstrated. The large‐pored dendritic templates are utilized for high‐density incorporation of both superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IOs) and quantum dots (QDs) within the vertical channels. The hierarchical structure is built via affinity‐driven assembly of IOs and QDs from organic phase with silica surface and mercapto‐organosilica intermediate layer, respectively. The sequential assembly with central–radial channels enables 3D loading of dual components and separately controlling of discrete functionalities. After the alkyl‐organosilica encapsulation and silica sealing, the composite spheres exhibit high stabilities and compatibility with LFIA for procalcitonin (PCT) detection. With the assistance of liquid‐phase antigen‐capturing, magnetic enrichment, and fluorescence‐signal amplification, a limit of detection of 0.031 ng mL−1 for PCT is achieved with a linear range from 0.012 to 10 ng mL−1. The current LFIA is robust and validated for PCT detection in real serum, which holds great diagnostic significance for precise guidance of antibiotic therapy with POC manner.
3D Electrospun Synthetic Extracellular Matrix for Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Su Yingchun , Toftdal Mette Steen , Le Friec Alice , Dong Mingdong , Han Xiaojun , Chen Menglin
Published: May 2021

Electrospinning is considered the most versatile micro‐/nanofiber fabrication technology. The electrospun fibers hold high surface area, desired mechanical properties, controlled topography, as well as the ease of biochemical functionalization. The 3D electrospun fibrous structures closely mimic the hierarchical architecture and fibrous features of the extracellular matrices (ECM), which greatly contribute to biomaterials design to stimulate tissue regeneration. Herein, the recent advances in electrospinning technology for 3D production of ECM‐mimicking biomaterial scaffolds are systematically summarized and the applications in neural, cardiac, bone, skin, and vascularized tissue regeneration are thoroughly discussed. Challenges and future scopes related to each field of tissue regeneration are discussed after each subsection. A few examples of liver, kidney, esophageal tissue engineering are also discussed. Finally, the key challenge in the cost‐effective upscale of the electrospinning technique to mature and prevalent industrial applications is outlined. Herein, a systematic, thorough summary of the recent evolutions in electrospinning and its emerging applications for a broad range of tissue regenerations is provided.
Evaluation of groundwater quality in Jampali coal mine, Raigarh, Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Ahmed Shah Izhar , Sonkar Ashwani Kumar , Kishore Nawal , Jhariya Dalchand
Published: May 2021

Groundwater is the main source of water for drinking, industrial, and irrigation uses for most nations. Groundwater quality deterioration occurs due to urban, agricultural, mining, and industrial expansions. This research deals with the assessment of groundwater quality index, correlation, clustering analysis, and major ions chemistry around Jampali opencast coal mine of Raigarh district, Chhattisgarh, India, where groundwater is the main source of drinking water. A total of 28 groundwater samples were collected from the different stations in the month of April 2019 and 11 physicochemical parameters were examined. The results of the physicochemical analysis showed that cation abundance follows the order Na+ > K+ > Mg2+ > Ca2+ in the groundwater, while anion abundance follows the order Cl− > NO3− > SO42− > F−. A strong positive correlation is observed between TDS–EC, TDS–Mg2+, TDS–Na+, TDS–Cl−, TDS–SO42− (r = 0.999, 0.871, 0.872, 0.846, and 0.801) and EC–Mg2+, EC–Na+, EC–Cl−, EC–SO42− (r = 0.871, 0.873, 0.846, 0.802). The two clusters demonstrate a blended genesis connected to anthropogenic and geogenic measures. Based on calculated water quality index (WQI) values, groundwater falls under two classes: excellent and good water. WQI values of the study region depict that 85.72% of samples come under the excellent category and 14.28% in the good category.
Creating a fairer and healthier society
Authors: Kirby Roger
Published: May 2021

In this editorial, Professor Roger Kirby, Editor‐in‐Chief for Trends in Urology and Men's Health, reflects on the rising health inequalities during the last decade.
H.pylori infection, part I: clinical burden and diagnosis
Authors: Hackett Richard J , Preston Sean L
Published: May 2021

In 1994, Helicobacter pylori infection was recognised as the primary driver of gastric carcinogenesis. Infection also has a wider impact as the causative agent in gastric MALT (mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue) lymphoma, among other pathologies. In the first of two parts, the authors discuss the natural history and sequelae of H. pylori infection alongside identification in the clinical setting. Part II (next issue) will consider management of H. pylori infection in an era of rising antibiotic resistance.
COVID‐19 vaccines: how did we do so well?
Authors: Riley Eleanor M
Published: May 2021

Although SARS‐CoV‐2 was relatively easy to design a vaccine against, the speed at which COVID‐19 vaccines have been developed and deployed was surprising. Nevertheless some canny planning along with decades of investment in biomedical research and health informatics, as well as eventually learning from previous disease outbreaks, all helped in the endeavour.