bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective Hydrogenolysis of Biomass‐Derived Xylitol to Glycols: Reaction Network and Kinetics
Authors: Heisig Carina , Glotzbach Christoph , Schirrmeister Steffen , Turek Thomas
Published: February 2021

The conversion of bio‐based xylitol to ethylene glycol (EG) and propylene glycol (PG) was studied to replace the petrochemical production route and achieve a sustainable process. The reaction network for aqueous‐phase catalytic hydrogenolysis of xylitol over a supported Pt catalyst with Ca(OH)2 as promotor was identified and the reaction kinetics was determined. The effects of reaction conditions such as educt concentration, H2 pressure, and temperature were investigated. With the developed kinetic model, the composition of the product mixture regarding the desired products (EG, PG) and by‐products can be described. The maximum EG yield was achieved at high pressure and low temperature, while high pressure and temperature favored PG production.
Utilization of image interpolation and fusion in brain tumor segmentation
Authors: El‐Hag Noha A. , Sedik Ahmed , El‐Banby Ghada M. , El‐Shafai Walid , Khalaf Ashraf A. M. , Al‐Nuaimy Waleed , Abd El‐Samie Fathi E. , El‐Hoseny Heba M.
Published: February 2021

Brain tumor is a mass of anomalous cells in the brain. Medical imagining techniques have a vital role in the diagnosis of brain tumors. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) techniques are the most popular techniques to localize the tumor area. Brain tumor segmentation is very important for the diagnosis of tumors. In this paper, we introduce a framework to perform brain tumor segmentation, and then localize the region of the tumor, accurately. The proposed framework begins with the fusion of MR and CT images by the Non‐Sub‐Sampled Shearlet Transform (NSST) with the aid of the Modified Central Force Optimization (MCFO) to get the optimum fusion result from the quality metrics perspective. After that, image interpolation is applied to obtain a High‐Resolution (HR) image from the Low‐Resolution (LR) ones. The objective of the interpolation process is to enrich the details of the fusion result prior to segmentation. Finally, the threshold and the watershed segmentation are applied sequentially to localize the tumor region, clearly. The proposed framework enhances the efficiency of segmentation to help the specialists diagnose brain tumors.
A current‐mode MOSFET‐C analog filter for the high‐frequency band applications
Authors: Ozenli Deniz , Yesil Abdullah , Kuntman Hakan
Published: February 2021

In this work, a novel current‐mode filter is presented including a PMOS grounded capacitor and a metal insulator metal structure (MIM‐cap). Proposed filter's cut‐off frequency can be easily adjusted from 10 up to 35 MHz. The wide tuning range of the proposed filter is designed to cover the need of baseband filter in the high‐frequency band and wireless applications such as CDMA, IEEE802.11a/g, IEEE 802.11b, and IEEE 802.11n. In addition, the proposed filter is designed by using a design methodology employing polynomial regressive models of small signal parameters of transistors to provide design accuracy as high as possible. Designed filter structure has layout with 52.1 μm × 62.6 μm chip area, and post‐layout simulations are given extensively to prove performance of the filter. Furthermore, 1‐dB compression point and IIP3 analyses are highlighted to observe linearity of band‐pass output of the filter structure. Also, input‐referred noise characteristics of the filter outputs are investigated to overcome thermal noise effects worsening the performance for a wide range of operating frequency interval. Provided results show that the proposed filter scheme brings a promising opportunity to designers for the high‐frequency region operations.
Healthcare experience among patients with type 2 diabetes: A cross‐sectional survey using the IEXPAC tool
Authors: Orozco‐Beltrán Domingo , Artola‐Menéndez Sara , Hormigo‐Pozo Antonio , Cararach‐Salami Daniel , Alonso‐Jerez Juan Luis , Álvaro‐Grande Epifanio , Villabrille‐Arias Covadonga , de Toro‐Santos Francisco Javier , Galindo‐Puerto María José , Marín‐Jiménez Ignacio , Gómez‐García Antón , Ledesma‐Rodriguez Rocío , Fernández Gonzalo , Ferreira de Campos Karine
Published: February 2021

Aim

To assess the experience with health care among patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and to evaluate patients’ demographic variables and healthcare‐related characteristics which may affect their experience.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was delivered to T2DM adults. Patient experiences were assessed with the ‘Instrument for Evaluation of the Experience of Chronic Patients’ (IEXPAC) questionnaire, a validated 12‐item survey, which describes patient experience within the last 6 months (items 1–11) and hospitalization in the last 3 years (item 12), with possible scores ranging from 0 (worst) to 10 (best experience).

Results

A total of 451 T2DM patients responded to the survey (response rate 72.3%; mean age 69.5 ± 10.1 years, 67.8% men). The mean overall IEXPAC score was 5.92 ± 1.80. Mean scores were higher for productive interactions (7.92 ± 2.15) and self‐management (7.08 ± 2.27) than for new relational model (1.72 ± 2.01). Only 32.8% of patients who had been hospitalized in the past 3 years reported having received a follow‐up call or visit after discharge. Multivariate analyses identified that regular follow‐up by the same physician and follow‐up by a nurse were associated with a better patient experience. Continuity of healthcare score was higher only in those patients requiring help from others.

Conclusions

The areas of T2DM care which may need to be addressed to ensure better patient experience are use of the Internet, new technologies and social resources for patient information and interaction with healthcare professionals, closer follow‐up after hospitalization, and a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach with regular follow‐up by the same physician and a nurse.
Monitoring institutions in healthcare markets: Experimental evidence
Authors: Angerer Silvia , Glätzle‐Rützler Daniela , Waibel Christian
Published: February 2021

This paper investigates the impact of monitoring institutions on market outcomes in health care. Healthcare markets are characterized by asymmetric information. Physicians have an information advantage over patients with respect to appropriate treatments, which they may exploit through over‐ or under‐provision or by overcharging. We introduce two types of costly monitoring: endogenous and exogenous monitoring. When monitoring detects misbehavior, physicians have to pay a fine. Endogenous monitoring can be requested by patients, while exogenous monitoring is performed randomly by a third party. We present a toy model that enables us to derive hypotheses and test them in a laboratory experiment. Our results show that introducing endogenous monitoring reduces the level of undertreatment and overcharging. Even under high monitoring costs, the threat of patient monitoring is sufficient to discipline physicians. Exogenous monitoring also reduces undertreatment and overcharging when performed sufficiently frequently. Market efficiency increases when endogenous monitoring is introduced and when exogenous monitoring is implemented with sufficient frequency. Our results suggest that monitoring may be a feasible instrument to improve outcomes in healthcare markets.
Influence of regional white matter hyperintensity volume and apolipoprotein E ε4 status on hippocampal volume in healthy older adults
Authors: Van Etten Emily J. , Bharadwaj Pradyumna K. , Hishaw Georg A. , Huentelman Matthew J. , Trouard Theodore P. , Grilli Matthew D. , Alexander Gene E.
Published: February 2021

While total white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volume on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been associated with hippocampal atrophy, less is known about how the regional distribution of WMH volume may differentially affect the hippocampus in healthy aging. Additionally, apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 carriers may be at an increased risk for greater WMH volumes and hippocampal atrophy in aging. The present study sought to investigate whether regional WMH volume mediates the relationship between age and hippocampal volume and if this association is moderated by APOE ε4 status in a group of 190 cognitively healthy adults (APOE ε4 status [carrier/non‐carrier] = 59/131), ages 50–89. Analyses revealed that temporal lobe WMH volume significantly mediated the relationship between age and average bilateral hippocampal volume, and this effect was moderated by APOE ε4 status (−0.020 (SE = 0.009), 95% CI, [−0.039, −0.003]). APOE ε4 carriers, but not non‐carriers, showed negative indirect effects of age on hippocampal volume through temporal lobe WMH volume (APOE ε4 carriers: −0.016 (SE = 0.007), 95% CI, [−0.030, −0.003]; APOE ε4 non‐carriers: .005 (SE = 0.006), 95% CI, [−0.006, 0.017]). These findings remained significant after additionally adjusting for sex, years of education, hypertension status and duration, cholesterol status, diabetes status, Body Mass Index, history of smoking, and the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale‐IV Full Scale IQ. There were no significant moderated mediation effects for frontal, parietal, and occipital lobe WMH volumes, with or without covariates. Our findings indicate that in cognitively healthy older adults, elevated WMH volume regionally localized to the temporal lobes in APOE ε4 carriers is associated with reduced hippocampal volume, suggesting greater vulnerability to brain aging and the risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Impact of comorbidities and body mass index on the outcome of polycythemia vera patients
Authors: Benevolo Giulia , Elli Elena M. , Bartoletti Daniela , Latagliata Roberto , Tiribelli Mario , Heidel Florian H. , Cavazzini Francesco , Bonifacio Massimiliano , Crugnola Monica , Binotto Gianni , D'Addio Alessandra , Tieghi Alessia , Bergamaschi Micaela , Caocci Giovanni , Polverelli Nicola , Bossi Elisa , Auteri Giuseppe , Carmosino Ida , Catani Lucia , Cuneo Antonio , Krampera Mauro , Lanza Francesco , Lemoli Roberto M. , Vianelli Nicola , Breccia Massimo , Palumbo Giuseppe A. , Cavo Michele , Palandri Francesca
Published: February 2021

In 816 patients with 2016 World Health Organization‐defined polycythemia vera (PV) enrolled in a multicenter retrospective study, we investigated the predictive value of Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and body mass index (BMI) on thrombosis, progression to post‐PV myelofibrosis (PPV‐MF) and survival. Patients were subgrouped according to CCI = 0 (58.1%, no comorbidities) or CCI ≥ 1 (41.9%) and according to normal/underweight (BMI < 25, 54.5%) or overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 25, 45.5%) at PV diagnosis. BMI was available for 529 patients. Patients with CCI ≥ 1 were older and more frequently presented cardiovascular risk factors compared to patients with CCI = 0 (p < 0.001), while overweight/obese patients were more frequently males (p < 0.001). Cumulative incidence of thromboses with death as competing risk was 13.3% at 10 years. Multivariable analysis with death as competing risk showed that previous thromboses (subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR]: 2.1, p = 0.01) and hypertension (SHR: 1.77, p = 0.04) were significantly associated with a higher thrombotic risk, while BMI ≥ 25 lost statistical significance (SHR: 1.69, p = 0.05) and CCI ≥ 1 was excluded after evaluation of goodness of fit. After a median follow‐up of 6.1 years, progression to PPV‐MF occurred in 44 patients, and 75 patients died. BMI ≥ 25 was associated with a lower probability of progression to PPV‐MF (SHR: 0.38, CI95%: 0.15–0.94, p = 0.04) and better survival (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.42, CI95%: 0.18–0.97, p = 0.04). CCI ≥ 1 did not affect progression to PPV‐MF (p = 0.44) or survival (p = 0.71).  The evaluation of CCI and BMI may improve the prognostic definition of PV. In patients with hypertension an accurate evaluation of thrombotic risk is warranted.
Resources management impact on neonatal services performance in the United Kingdom: A system dynamics modelling approach
Authors: Lebcir Reda , Atun Rifat
Published: February 2021

Demand for neonatal care in the United Kingdom (UK) has increased in recent years. This care is provided by neonatal services, which are chronically saturated due to years of budget austerity in the UK. The aim of this paper is to investigate the possible impact of increasing resources to these services to improve their operational performance and alleviate the pressure they are facing. To achieve this aim, a system dynamics (SD) simulation model was built and validated in a UK neonatal unit. The SD model was used initially to evaluate the impact of increasing resources on the unit performance and the results showed that this policy will have a limited effect on performance. The model was then extended to predict the effect of reducing the length of stay (LoS) in conjunction with increasing resources. These joint interventions will have a positive impact on the unit performance if LoS is reduced for all care categories and resources are slightly increased. Results' implications and SD's modelling usefulness to guide decision making in complex health settings are discussed.
Role of gut microbiome in the outcome of cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Ma Junting , Zhu Wenwen , Liu Beixing
Published: February 2021

Nearly 3 × 1013 types of bacteria colonize the human intestine. These colonized bacteria help in maintaining intestinal homeostasis by establishing a complex relationship with the intestinal epithelium and lymphoid tissue. Alteration in the composition of the intestinal microbiota is associated with susceptibility to various pathological conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, diabetes, inflammation and cancer. Of late, several researchers have focused on examining the effects of gut microbiota on the outcome of various cancer treatment protocols. Side effects and complications of traditional chemotherapy and allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation are associated with intestinal dysbiosis. Gut microbiota affects the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor‐based immunotherapy. The gut is inhabited by diverse resident bacteria, of which, few enhance, while others inhibit the host response to immunotherapy. This review focuses on the correlation between intestinal microbiota and the outcome of tumor immunotherapy. Additionally, the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of gut microbiota on the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy have been reviewed. Further studies are needed for the identification of distinct gut microbiota and their efficacy in tumor immunotherapy as certain types of intestinal bacteria could function as novel adjuvant drugs to enhance the effectiveness of antitumor therapy in humans.
Early return to continence and potency with use of dehydrated human umbilical cord graft at the time of robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy: A case study and analysis of relevant literature
Authors: Krol Bridget C , Hemal Ashok K , Peak Taylor , Liu Shuo , Pathak Ram A
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy often causes damage to the neurovascular bundle which results in erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence. Recovery may take months; however, dehydrated umbilical cord allografts appear to offer an advantage in terms of a faster return to continence and potency.

Case presentation

A 67‐year‐old male, who presented with intermediate‐risk prostate cancer, underwent a bilateral nerve‐sparing radical prostatectomy and placement of dehydrated human umbilical cord graft. Four weeks post‐prostatectomy, the patient reported minimal stress urinary incontinence and erections with 75% rigidity. Three months post‐prostatectomy, the patient noted improved continence and erections with 100% rigidity.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the second experience reported in the literature evaluating the use of umbilical cord allograft during robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy, with promising results, and it is the first reported case to analyze potency as an outcome.
Donor tolerability of convalescent plasma donation
Authors: He Rui , Lin Hui , Xie Songli , Lv Qilu , Kong Yujie , Li Ling , Xu Haixia , Wang Jue , Li Wenjuan , Fang Peng , Wu Yanyun , Liu Zhong
Published: February 2021

Background

Since early 2020, convalescent plasma has been widely used for treating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). There is limited information regarding donor tolerability of convalescent plasma donation. In this study, we evaluated the short‐term donor tolerability of convalescent plasma donation.

Methods

A prospective study of 309 convalescent plasma donation related adverse events were conducted at Wuhan Blood Center of China, from February 12 to April 1, 2020. Additionally, up to 28‐day post‐donation follow‐ups were performed on the donors.

Results

Sixteen (5.2%) adverse events were reported in 309 donations. All of these were mild vasovagal without loss of consciousness. The frequency of adverse reactions was higher in donors with a per donation volume of >8 mL/kg body weight or ≥ 600 mL, <100 mm Hg in pre‐donation systolic blood pressure, or less than 28 days from the onset of COVID‐19 symptoms. There was no correlation to donation history, weight, sex, ABO blood type, pre‐donation diastolic blood pressure, pulse, or hemoglobin.

Conclusion

The donation of convalescent plasma is generally safe. Mitigation of risk factors associated with adverse events can further enhance donor tolerability of convalescent plasma donation.
Home‐Based Intervention to Test and Start (HITS): a community‐randomized controlled trial to increase HIV testing uptake among men in rural South Africa
Authors: Tanser Frank C , Kim Hae‐Young , Mathenjwa Thulile , Shahmanesh Maryam , Seeley Janet , Matthews Phillippa , Wyke Sally , McGrath Nuala , Adeagbo Oluwafemi , Sartorius Benn , Yapa Handurugamage Manisha , Zuma Thembelihle , Zeitlin Anya , Blandford Ann , Dobra Adrian , Bärnighausen Till
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The uptake of HIV testing and linkage to care remains low among men, contributing to high HIV incidence in women in South Africa. We conducted the “Home‐Based Intervention to Test and Start” (HITS) in a 2x2 factorial cluster randomized controlled trial in one of the World’s largest ongoing HIV cohorts in rural South Africa aimed at enhancing both intrinsic and extrinsic motivations for HIV testing.

Methods

Between February and December 2018, in the uMkhanyakude district of KwaZulu‐Natal, we randomly assigned 45 communities (clusters) (n = 13,838 residents) to one of the four arms: (i) financial incentives for home‐based HIV testing and linkage to care (R50 [$3] food voucher each); (ii) male‐targeted HIV‐specific decision support application, called EPIC‐HIV; (iii) both financial incentives and male‐targeted HIV‐specific decision support application and (iv) standard of care (SoC). EPIC‐HIV was developed to encourage and serve as an intrinsic motivator for HIV testing and linkage to care, and individually offered to men via a tablet device. Financial incentives were offered to both men and women. Here we report the effect of the interventions on uptake of home‐based HIV testing among men. Intention‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis was performed using modified Poisson regression with adjustment for clustering of standard errors at the cluster levels.

Results

Among all 13,838 men ≥ 15 years living in the 45 communities, the overall population coverage during a single round of home‐based HIV testing was 20.7%. The uptake of HIV testing was 27.5% (683/2481) in the financial incentives arm, 17.1% (433/2534) in the EPIC‐HIV arm, 26.8% (568/2120) in the arm receiving both interventions and 17.8% in the SoC arm. The probability of HIV testing increased substantially by 55% in the financial incentives arm (risk ratio (RR)=1.55, 95% CI: 1.31 to 1.82, p < 0.001) and 51% in the arm receiving both interventions (RR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.21 to 1.87 p < 0.001), compared to men in the SoC arm. The probability of HIV testing did not significantly differ in the EPIC‐HIV arm (RR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.76 to 1.20, p = 0.70).

Conclusions

The provision of a small financial incentive acted as a powerful extrinsic motivator substantially increasing the uptake of home‐based HIV testing among men in rural South Africa. In contrast, the counselling and testing application which was designed to encourage and serve as an intrinsic motivator to test for HIV did not increase the uptake of home‐based testing.
Clinical performance of the Panbio assay for the detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 IgM and IgG in COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Haguet Hélène , Douxfils Jonathan , Eucher Christine , Elsen Marc , Cadrobbi Julie , Tré‐Hardy Marie , Dogné Jean‐Michel , Favresse Julien
Published: February 2021

Following the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) pandemic, numerous serological tests have been developed, including rapid diagnostic tests. This study aims at assessing the clinical performance of the Panbio immunoglobulin G (IgG)/IgM coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) test (Abbott), a rapid lateral flow assay for the qualitative detection of IgG and IgM against SARS‐CoV‐2. One hundred and thirty‐eight samples from 95 COVID‐19 patients with a positive SARS‐CoV‐2 reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction were analyzed to assess the clinical sensitivity. Seventy‐six pre‐COVID‐19 samples were used to evaluate the clinical specificity. Two independent and blinded raters determined visually the presence or absence of the IgG, IgM, and control lines for each test after 10 and 20 min. The sensitivity obtained from collected samples more than 14 days after the onset of symptoms was 95.2% for IgG. IgM was less frequently detected (highest sensitivity of 20.5%). The specificities obtained were 98.7% and 100% for IgG and IgM, respectively. In addition, the sensitivity of the assay was better when the reading was performed at 20 min than at 10 min, whereas the specificity was unchanged. The Panbio COVID‐19 IgG/IgM rapid test detects IgG with high sensitivity 14 days since symptom onset but presents a low sensitivity for IgM. The specificity was excellent for both IgG and IgM.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) seroconversion in hematology–oncology patients
Authors: Bird Paul W. , Badhwar Vinay , Kennedy Ben , Ladani Sapna , Tang Julian W.‐T.
Published: February 2021

Since the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in China at the end of 2019, the virus has spread rapidly across the globe leading to millions of infections and subsequent deaths. Although the virus infects those exposed indiscriminately, there are groups in society at an increased risk of severe infection, leading to increased morbidity. Patients suffering from hematological cancers, particularly leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, may be one such group and previous studies have suggested that they may be at a three to four times greater risk of severe COVID‐19 after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, leading to admissions to ICU, mechanical ventilation, and death compared to those without such malignancies. Serological testing for IgG seroconversion has been extensively studied in the immunocompetent, but fewer publications have characterized this process in large series of immunocompromised patients. This study described 20 patients with hematological cancers who tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 via PCR with 12 of the patients receiving further serological testing. We found that of the 12 patients screened for SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG antibodies, only 2 (16.6%) were able to generate an immune response to the infection. Yet despite this low seroconversion rate in this cohort, none of these patients died or became particularly unwell with COVID‐19 or its related complications.
Evaluation of different internal diameter coated modulation columns within the context of solid‐state modulation
Authors: Giocastro Barbara , Zoccali Mariosimone , Tranchida Peter Q. , Mondello Luigi
Published: February 2021

The solid‐state‐modulator is a consumable‐free thermal modulator, used within the context of comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography. Its consumable‐free nature is guaranteed by the presence of a thermal‐electric cooler device located between two heated chambers, everything located outside the gas chrpmatograph oven. The aim of the present research is to evaluate the solid‐state‐modulator modulation performance in relationship to different modulation capillary geometries. For this purpose, two coated modulation capillaries with the same length, but with different internal diameters (0.25 and 0.18 mm) were used. The effects of gas linear velocity, modulator temperature, and modulation period were evaluated in several applications involving standard alkanes and a sample of diesel fuel. Fundamental gas chromatography parameters (peaks widths, resolution) were measured under the different experimental conditions. Detailed information is provided on gas flow optimization, with particular emphasis on the efficiency of chromatography band reinjection onto the second‐dimension column. The results obtained from the present investigation highlight how the modulation capillary characteristics have a great impact on the overall comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography separation. Specifically, considering the results herein attained, the use of a 0.18 mm ID × 0.18 μm df modulation column is advisable compared to a 0.25 mm ID × 0.25 μm df one.
Systematic review of pharmacokinetics and potential pharmacokinetic interactions of flavonolignans from silymarin
Authors: Tvrdý Václav , Pourová Jana , Jirkovský Eduard , Křen Vladimír , Valentová Kateřina , Mladěnka Přemysl
Published: February 2021

Silymarin is an extract from the seeds (fruits) of Silybum marianum that contains flavonolignans and flavonoids. Although it is frequently used as a hepatoprotective agent, its application remains somewhat debatable, in particular, due to the low oral bioavailability of flavonolignans. Moreover, there are claims of its potential interactions with concomitantly used drugs. This review aims at a systematic summary and critical assessment of known information on the pharmacokinetics of particular silymarin flavonolignans. There are two known major reasons for poor systemic oral bioavailability of flavonolignans: (1) rapid conjugation in intestinal cells or the liver and (2) efflux of parent flavonolignans or formed conjugates back to the lumen of the gastrointestinal tract by intestinal cells and rapid excretion by the liver into the bile. The metabolism of phase I appears to play a minor role, in contrast to extensive conjugation and indeed the unconjugated flavonolignans reach low plasma levels after common doses. Only about 1%–5% of the administered dose is eliminated by the kidneys. Many in vitro studies tested the inhibitory potential of silymarin and its components toward different enzymes and transporters involved in the absorption, metabolism, and excretion of xenobiotics. In most cases, effective concentrations are too high to be relevant under real biological conditions. Most human studies showed no silymarin–drug interactions explainable by these suggested interferences. More interactions were found in animal studies, likely due to the much higher doses administered.
Mapping of microvascular architecture in the brain of an Alzheimer's disease mouse model using MRI
Authors: Chang Suk‐Ki , Kim JeongYeong , Lee DongKyu , Yoo Chang Hyun , Jin Seokha , Rhee Hak Young , Ryu Chang‐Woo , Lee Jong Kil , Cho HyungJoon , Jahng Geon‐Ho
Published: February 2021

Increasing evidence suggests that alterations in cerebral microvasculature play a critical role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The objective of this study was to characterize and evaluate the cerebral microvascular architecture of AD transgenic (Tg) mice and compare it with that of non‐Tg mice using brain microvascular indices obtained by MRI. Seven non‐Tg mice and 10 5xFAD Tg mice were scanned using a 7‐T animal MRI system to measure the transverse relaxation rates of R2 and R2* before and after the injection of the monocrystalline iron oxide nanoparticle contrast agent. After calculating ΔR2* and ΔR2, the vessel size index (VSI), mean vessel diameter (mVD), mean vessel density, mean vessel‐weighted image (MvWI) and blood volume fraction (BVf) were mapped. Voxel‐based analyses and region of interest (ROI)‐based analyses were performed to compare the indices of the non‐Tg and Tg groups. Voxel comparisons showed that BVf, mVD, VSI and MvWI were greater in the Tg group than in the non‐Tg group. Additionally, the ROI‐based analysis showed that ΔR2*, BVf, mVD, MvWI and VSI increased in several brain regions of the Tg group compared with those in the non‐Tg group. VSI and mVD increased in Tg mice; these findings indicated microvascular disruption in the brain that could be related to damage to the neurovascular unit in AD caused by cerebral amyloid angiopathy.
Stealth applications: Uncovering a new audience
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: February 2021

We're on their radar, but they're not on ours.
Optimizing Regorafenib Dosing and Patient Management in Colorectal Cancer in Latin America: Perspectives from Argentina
Authors: Dioca Mariano , O'Connor Juan Manuel
Published: February 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Central and South America and one of the top causes of cancer death; however, these rates vary considerably between countries. This commentary focuses on clinical experiences in Argentina, highlighting results of the phase II ReDOS trial.
Home‐based multimodal exercise program in older people with Alzheimer disease: Randomized controlled trial protocol
Authors: Cezar Natália Oiring de Castro , Ansai Juliana Hotta , de Andrade Larissa Pires
Published: February 2021

Background

At‐home physical exercise may be an important intervention strategy for older people with Alzheimer disease (AD) due to the greater adherence and ease for the caregivers.

Purpose

Determine the effects home‐based multimodal exercise program in older people with AD on muscle strength, balance, functioning, cognition, dual task performance, frailty, and physical activity level.

Methods

This is a trial with 40 older people with mild and moderate AD, randomized into intervention group (IG) and control group (CG). The participants will be evaluated by blinded examiners at baseline and after 16 weeks of training. The evaluations will investigate functioning (Timed Up and Go test, Direct Assessment of Functional Status, WHO Disability Assessment Schedule, Short Physical Performance Battery, and Activities of Daily Living Questionnaire), muscle strength (manual dynamometer and Sit‐to‐Stand test), frailty (FRAIL Scale and Edmonton Frail Scale), cognition (Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination, Trail Making Test, Walking Trail‐Making Test, and Frontal Assessment Battery), balance (force platform, Figure‐of‐Eight Walking Test, Functional Reach Test, Alternate Step Test, and Calf‐Raise Senior), dual task (force platform), and physical activity level (Modified Baecke Questionnaire and Life‐Space Assessment). The IG will perform 16 weeks of exercise at home that involve functioning, strength, balance, and aerobic endurance in 60‐min sessions three times a week. The CG will not undergo any intervention.

Conclusion

Improvements in the aspects evaluated are expected in the IG compared to CG. The protocol will provide a theoretical basis for the creation of clinical interventions and health promotion measures for older people with AD.
Antiangiogenic properties of lichen secondary metabolites
Authors: Ulus Gönül
Published: February 2021

Lichens are symbiotic organisms which are composed fungi and algae and/or cyanobacteria. They produce a variety of characteristic secondary metabolites. Such substances have various biological properties including antimicrobial, antiviral, and antitumor activities. Angiogenesis, the growth of new vessels from pre‐existing vessels, contributes to numerous diseases including cancer, arthritis, atherosclerosis, infectious, and immune disorders. Antiangiogenic therapy is a promising approach for the treatment of such diseases by inhibiting the new vessel formation. Technological advances have led to the development of various antiangiogenic agents and have made possible antiangiogenic therapy in many diseases associated with angiogenesis. Some lichens and their metabolites are used in the drug industry, but many have not yet been tested for their antiangiogenic effects. The cytotoxic and angiogenic capacities of lichen‐derived small molecules have been demonstrated in vivo and in vitro experiments. Therefore, some of them may be used as antiangiogenic agents in the future. The secondary compounds of lichen whose antiangiogenic effect has been studied in the literature are usnic acid, barbatolic acid, vulpinic acid, olivetoric acid, emodin, secalonic acid D, and parietin. In this article, we review the antiangiogenic effects and cellular targets of these lichen‐derived metabolites.
Oroxylin A is a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2‐spiked pseudotyped virus blocker obtained from Radix Scutellariae using angiotensin‐converting enzyme II/cell membrane chromatography
Authors: Gao Jiapan , Ding Yuanyuan , Wang Yuejin , Liang Peida , Zhang Liyang , Liu Rui
Published: February 2021

The current worldwide outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has been declared a public health emergency. The angiotensin‐converting enzyme II (ACE2) has been reported as the primary host‐cell receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), the causative virus of COVID‐19. In this study, we screened ACE2 ligands from Radix Scutellariae and investigated its suppressive effect on SARS‐CoV‐2 spiked pseudotyped virus in vitro. HEK293T cells stably expressing ACE2 receptors (ACE2 cells) were used to provide the receptor for the ACE2/cell membrane chromatography (CMC) method used for analysis. The SARS‐CoV‐2‐spiked pseudotyped virus was used to examine the anti‐viropexis effect of the screened compounds in ACE2 cells. Molecular docking and the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay were used to determine the binding properties. Oroxylin A exhibited an appreciable suppressive effect against the entrance of the SARS‐CoV‐2‐spiked pseudotyped virus into ACE2 cells, which showed good binding to ACE2 as determined using SPR and CMC. Oroxylin A was shown to be a potential candidate in the treatment for COVID‐19 by virtue of its blocking the entrance of SARS‐CoV‐2 into ACE2 cells by specifically binding to the ACE2 receptor.
First‐principles studies on structure stability, segregation, and work function of Mg doped with metal elements
Authors: Wang Chao , Wang Jianfeng , Ma Di , Zhu Shijie , Wang Liguo , Guan Shaokang
Published: February 2021

The first‐principles methods based on the density functional theory were employed to study the structural stability, segregation and work function of Mg doped with 14 metal elements existing in human body. The calculated results show that there is a simple correlation between structural stability and segregation. Doping of Sn, Y, Li, Gd, Nd, Sc, and Zn atoms produce a negative formation energy as well as a positive segregation energy. This suggests that these elements easier to be dissolved in Mg matrix do not tend to segregate on the Mg (0001) surface. An opposite trend was observed for Ba, Fe, Mn, W, Sr, and Ca. On the other hand, the electronic work function of Mg (0001) surface was increased significantly when doping Mo, W, Fe, and Mn, and was reduced markedly for Ba, Ca, and Sr. For Li, Sn, Sc, Gd, and Y, the doping of these elements on Mg surface generates a relatively small change in work function. In addition, the relationships of corrosion behavior to segregation and work function were discussed. This study may provide an avenue for seeking a more appropriate alloying element of Mg alloys with improved corrosion resistance in biomedical applications.
Proportional likelihood ratio mixed model for discrete longitudinal data
Authors: Wu Hongqian , Jones Michael P.
Published: February 2021

Rathouz and Gao [2] and Luo and Tsai [3] proposed valuable extensions to the generalized linear model for modeling a nonlinear monotonic relationship between the mean response and a set of covariates. In their extensions for discrete data the baseline response distribution is unspecified and is estimated from the data. We propose to extend this model for the analysis of longitudinal data by incorporating random effects into the linear predictor, and using maximum likelihood for estimation and inference. Motivated in particular by longitudinal studies of clinical scale outcomes, we developed an estimation procedure for a finite‐support response using a generalized expectation‐maximization algorithm where Gauss‐Hermite quadrature is employed to approximate the integrals in the E step of the algorithm. Upon convergence, the observed information matrix is estimated through second‐order numerical differentiation of the log‐likelihood function. Asymptotic properties of the maximum likelihood estimates follow under the usual regularity conditions. Simulation studies are conducted to assess its finite‐sample properties and compare the proposed model to the generalized linear mixed model. The proposed method is illustrated in an analysis of data from a longitudinal study of Huntington's disease.
Ni/Mo Bimetallic‐Oxide‐Derived Heterointerface‐Rich Sulfide Nanosheets with Co‐Doping for Efficient Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution by Boosting Volmer Reaction
Authors: Zhang Liyang , Zheng Yujie , Wang Jiacheng , Geng Yang , Zhang Ben , He Junjie , Xue Junmin , Frauenheim Thomas , Li Meng
Published: February 2021

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a promising alternative to Pt‐based catalysts for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in an acidic environment. However, alkaline HER activity for molybdenum disulfide is limited by its slow water dissociation kinetics. Interface engineering is an effective strategy for the design of alkaline HER catalysts. However, the restricted heterointerfaces of current catalysts have significantly limited their alkaline HER performance. Herein, a novel assembly of cobalt‐doped interface‐ and defect‐rich MoS2/Ni3S2 hetero‐nanosheet anchoring on hierarchical carbon framework for alkaline HER is reported by directly vulcanizing NiMoO4 nanosheets. In the heterostructure nanosheet, Ni3S2 acts as a water dissociation promoter and MoS2 acts as a hydrogen acceptor. Density functional theory calculations find that redistribution of charges at the heterointerface can reduce hydrogen adsorption Gibbs free energy (∆GH*) and water decomposition energy barrier. The resulting hierarchical electrode with the synergistic effect of both hybrid components shows a low overpotential of 89 mV at −10 mA cm−2 in 1 m KOH, a Tafel slope as low as 62 mV dec−1, and can run at −100 mA cm−2 for at least 50 h without obvious voltage change. This study provides a potentially feasible strategy for the design of heterostructure‐based electrocatalysts with abundant active interfaces.
P3/O3 Integrated Layered Oxide as High‐Power and Long‐Life Cathode toward Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Si‐Yuan , Guo Yu‐Jie , Zhou Ya‐Nan , Zhang Xu‐Dong , Niu Yu‐Bin , Wang En‐Hui , Huang Lin‐Bo , An Peng‐Fei , Zhang Jing , Yang Xin‐An , Yin Ya‐Xia , Xu Sailong , Guo Yu‐Guo
Published: February 2021

Low‐cost and stable sodium‐layered oxides (such as P2‐ and O3‐phases) are suggested as highly promising cathode materials for Na‐ion batteries (NIBs). Biphasic hybridization, mainly involving P2/O3 and P2/P3 biphases, is typically used to boost their electrochemical performances. Herein, a P3/O3 intergrown layered oxide (Na2/3Ni1/3Mn1/3Ti1/3O2) as high‐rate and long‐life cathode for NIBs via tuning the amounts of Ti substitution in Na2/3Ni1/3Mn2/3−xTixO2 (x = 0, 1/6, 1/3, 2/3) is demonstrated. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) Rietveld refinement and aberration‐corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy show the co‐existence of P3 and O3 phases, and density functional theory calculation corroborates the appearance of the anomalous O3 phase at the Ti substitution amount of 1/3. The P3/O3 biphasic cathode delivers an unexpected rate capability (≈88.7% of the initial capacity at a high rate of 5 C) and cycling stability (≈68.7% capacity retention after 2000 cycles at 1 C), superior to those of the sing phases P3‐Na2/3Ni1/3Mn2/3O2, P3‐Na2/3Ni1/3Mn1/2Ti1/6O2, and O3‐Na2/3Ni1/3Ti2/3O2. The highly reversible structural evolution of the P3/O3 integrated cathode observed by ex situ XRD, ex situ X‐ray absorption spectra, and the rapid Na+ diffusion kinetics, underpin the enhancement. These results show the important role of P3/O3 biphasic hybridization in designing and engineering layered oxide cathodes for NIBs.
Modified deep belief network based human emotion recognition with multiscale features from video sequences
Authors: Sreenivas Velagapudi , Namdeo Varsha , Vijay Kumar Eda
Published: February 2021

Emotion recognition from human faces are recently considered as growing topic for the applications in HCI (human–computer interaction) field. Therefore, a new framework is introduced in this method for emotion recognition from video. Human faces may carry huge features which increase the complexity of recognizing the emotions from the give video. Therefore, to minimize such defect, the wrapper based feature selection technique is introduced which reduce the complexity of proposed recognition framework. Initially, the frames from the input video is preprocessed. Next, the features exhibited by each emotions are extracted with geometric and local binary pattern‐based feature extraction methods. Then, the features that reduce the performance of recognition technique is avoided using a feature selection algorithm. It selects the features that provides effective result on recognition process. Finally, the selected features are provided to deep belief network (DBN) for emotion recognition. The weight parameter selection of DBN is improved using an efficient Harris Hawk optimization algorithm. The performance of presented architecture is evaluated using a three different datasets they are FAMED, CK+, and MMI. The overall rate shown by proposed architecture is found better than existing methods. Furthermore, the precision, recall, and specificity are also evaluated for six different emotions (angry, disgust, fear, happy, sad, and surprise) in this proposed method. This entire emotion recognition process is implemented in Python platform.
Synthesis and Properties of a Starch‐based Clay Tolerance Sacrificial Agent
Authors: Li Bin , Gao Ruijun , Wang Ling
Published: February 2021

For improving the workability of clay‐containing cement paste superplasticized by polycarboxylate ether (PCE), a new starch‐based sacrificial agent is synthesized in the following two steps: first, the starch is sulfonated to obtain sulfonated starch (SS) with a strong steric effect, which is verified through its dispersion performance; then, SS is quaternized to obtain starch‐based sacrificial agent (SSB). The structure of SSB is characterized by FT‐IR and element analysis. Montmorillonite (MMT), as the most detrimental clay, strongly perturbs the dispersing power of conventional PCE. Therefore, the MMT‐tolerance property of SSB is tested. With the addition of 0.02 wt.% SSB, the fluidity of MMT‐containing cement paste is increased from 191.5  to 222 mm and the rheological property of MMT‐containing cement paste is improved by reducing the yield stress and the flow index (τ0 and n in Herschel‐Bulkley model). Adsorption experiments, DLS, and XRD are used for explaining SSB's clay‐tolerance mechanism. Adsorption experiments show that the cationic group enhanced the interaction between MMT and SSB; DLS and XRD demonstrated that SSB is adsorbed on MMT through electrostatic attraction and could hinder the interaction between PCE and MMT by its high steric effect.
Predictive Analyses of COVID‐19 Case Data to Estimate the Effectiveness of Nationwide Face Cover
Authors: Kim Hwanyong , Simpson Jimmy , Park Byeonghwa
Published: February 2021

This study provided comparisons of confirmed cases between face‐cover‐required states and partially or not‐required states from a time‐series analysis on effects of face mask use in public based on eight different states between March 1 and June 15, 2020. In comparing face‐cover‐required states and partially or not‐required states, it was very encouraging that the slope of the daily case trends turned negative after face‐cover requirements in statewide face‐cover‐required states, including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. However, the patterns of the daily case have been showing positive trends continuously in partially or not‐required states, including California, Texas, Florida, and Virginia. Based on our prediction model, if nationwide face‐cover requirements with social distancing were enacted on March 16, the estimated number of deaths would be about 15,600, which is 94,300 less than the actual number of deaths by June 15, 2020. We recommend that all states and the federal government require face coverings in order to reduce the risk of infectious diseases.
Study of collinear cracks in a composite medium subjected to time‐harmonic wave disturbance
Authors: Trivedi Neha , Das Subir , Altenbach Holm
Published: February 2021

The article deals with the collinear Griffith cracks under the time‐harmonic waves, situated in an orthotropic strip sandwiched between two identical half‐planes. The outer cracks are considered to be situated on either sides of the central crack. The mathematical model is solved by applying the Fourier transform and then the unknown functions have been determined using Schmidt method. The approximate analytical expressions of the stress intensity factors (SIFs) have been obtained at the tips of the cracks. The values of the SIFs for the considered composite with Graphite epoxy material as the strip and E‐glass epoxy as the half‐plane are computed numerically for different crack lengths and wave numbers, and the obtained results are displayed graphically. The salient feature of the article is the pictorial presentations of the possibilities of arrest of the central crack due to the presence of outer cracks through finding the stress magnification factor for different particular cases.
Introduction
Authors: Parsons Meg , Fisher Karen , Crease Roa Petra
Published: February 2021

Freshwater is essential to the health and wellbeing of both human and ecological communities. In Aotearoa New Zealand, the freshwater systems are affected by ongoing degradation directly connected to human activities over the last two centuries. Recently scholars have begun to question the efficacy of established management approaches, the extent to which current land-use practices are to blame and whether continued environmental decline in our waterways is inevitable. The continued degradation of freshwater systems under conventional management approaches necessitates a rethinking of how freshwater systems are governed, managed, and restored. In this introductory chapter we explore the origins of the freshwater crisis (a manifestation of multiple environmental injustices) within a single freshwater system: the Waipā River (Te Waipā o Awa).
Remaking Muddy Blue Spaces: Histories of Human-Wetlands Interactions in the Waipā River and the Creation of Environmental Injustices
Authors: Parsons Meg , Fisher Karen , Crease Roa Petra
Published: February 2021

This chapter focusses on the state-sponsored ecological transformation of Aotearoa New Zealand’s wetlands into grasslands under the auspices of settler colonialism, agricultural productivism, and public health. The physical removal of wetlands, we argue, were a constitutive part of the mechanisms of settler colonial domination. We demonstrate how the destruction of wetlands diminished the resilience of Indigenous Māori communities and contributed to a reduction in Māori wellbeing. We demonstrate that wetland loss was an environmental injustice that had specific implications for Māori peoples due to their material, socio-cultural, and spiritual connections. Lastly, we highlight how Māori agency whereby individuals used settler-colonial political and legal processes to try to mitigate damage to their wetlands, to exercise their responsibilities as kaitiaki (environmental guardians) and demand environmental justice.