bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence and progression of diabetic retinopathy in a multi-ethnic US cohort: the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Cheung Ning , Chee Miao Li , Klein Ronald , Klein Barbara E K , Shea Steven , Cotch Mary Frances , Cheng Ching-Yu , Wong Tien Yin
Published: March 2021

Aim

To provide contemporary longitudinal data on the incidence and progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in a multi-ethnic population of whites, African Americans, Chinese and Hispanics in the United States.

Methods

A prospective, multi-region, multi-ethnic population-based cohort study that included 498 participants with diabetes, aged 45–84 years at baseline, from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis with retinal images obtained twice, on average 8 years apart. Presence and severity of DR were graded from these retinal images according to the modified Airlie House classification system. Main outcome measures were 8-year incidence, progression and improvement of DR, and their associated risk factors.

Results

Over the 8 years, the cumulative rates were 19.2% for incident DR, 17.3% for DR progression, 23.3% for DR improvement, 2.7% for incident vision-threatening DR, 1.8% for incident proliferative DR and 2.2% for incident macular oedema. In multivariate analysis, significant risk factors associated with incident DR were higher glycosylated haemoglobin (relative
risk (RR) 1.28; 95% CI: 1.16 to 1.41) and higher systolic blood pressure (RR 1.14; 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.25). Significant factors associated with DR progression were higher glycosylated haemoglobin (RR 1.20; 95% CI: 1.00 to 1.43) and higher low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (RR 1.01; 95% CI: 1.00 to 1.03).

Conclusion

Over an 8-year period, approximately one in five participants with diabetes developed DR, while almost a quarter of those with DR at baseline showed improvement, possibly reflecting the positive impact of clinical and public health efforts in improving diabetes care in the United States over the last two decades.
Gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) for refractory gastroparesis: results from an international prospective trial
Authors: Vosoughi Kia , Ichkhanian Yervant , Benias Petros , Miller Larry , Aadam A Aziz , Triggs Joseph R , Law Ryan , Hasler William , Bowers Nicole , Chaves Dalton , Ponte-Neto Alberto M , Draganov Peter , Yang Dennis , El Halabi Maan , Sanaei Omid , Brewer Gutierrez Olaya Isabella , Bulat Robert Stephen , Pandolfino John , Khashab Mouen
Published: March 2021

Objective

Although gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM) is considered a promising technique for the management of refractory gastroparesis, high-quality evidence is limited. We prospectively investigated the efficacy and safety of G-POEM in unselected patients with refractory gastroparesis.

Design

In five tertiary centres, patients with symptomatic gastroparesis refractory to standard medical therapy and confirmed by impaired gastric emptying were included. The primary endpoint was clinical success, defined as at least one score decrease in Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI) with ≥25% decrease in two subscales, at 12 months. GCSI Score and subscales, adverse events (AEs) and 36-Item Short Form questionnaire of quality of life were evaluated at baseline and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after G-POEM. Gastric emptying study was performed before and 3 months after the procedure.

Results

Of 80 enrolled patients, 75 patients (94%) completed 12-month follow-up. Clinical success at 12 months was 56% (95% CI, 44.8 to 66.7). GCSI Score (including subscales) improved moderately after G-POEM (p<0.05). In a regression model, a baseline GCSI Score >2.6 (OR=3.23, p=0.04) and baseline gastric retention >20% at 4 hours (OR=3.65, p=0.03) were independent predictors of clinical success at 12 months, as was early response to G-POEM at 1 month after therapy (OR 8.75, p<0.001). Mild procedure-related AEs occurred in 5 (6%) patients.

Conclusion

G-POEM is a safe procedure, but showed only modest overall effectiveness in the treatment of refractory gastroparesis. Further studies are required to identify the best candidates for G-POEM; unselective use of this procedure should be discouraged.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry NCT02732821.
Ratio of urinary N-terminal titin fragment to urinary creatinine is a novel biomarker for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Yamada Shinichiro , Hashizume Atsushi , Hijikata Yasuhiro , Ito Daisuke , Kishimoto Yoshiyuki , Iida Madoka , Koike Haruki , Hirakawa Akihiro , Katsuno Masahisa
Published: March 2021

Objective

We aimed to investigate the validity of urinary N-terminal titin fragment as a biomarker for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Methods

We consecutively enrolled patients with ALS (n=70) and healthy controls (HC) (n=43). We assessed the urinary titin N-terminal fragment, urinary neurotrophin receptor p75 extracellular domain, serum neurofilament light chain (NfL), motor functional measurements and prognosis. We used urinary creatinine (Cr) levels to normalise the urinary levels of titin fragment.

Results

Compared with HC, patients with ALS had significantly increased urinary levels of titin N-terminal fragment normalised with Cr (titin/Cr) (ALS, 27.2 pmol/mg/dL; HC, 5.8 pmol/mg/dL; p<0.001), which were correlated with the scores of the Revised Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale (r=−0.422, p<0.001). A Cox proportional hazards model demonstrated that the high urinary level of titin/Cr was a survival predictor in patients with ALS. Multivariate analysis of prognostic factors showed that the urinary titin/Cr and serum NfL were independent factors for poor prognosis.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that urinary N-terminal titin fragment is a non-invasive measure of muscle damage in ALS, which could be applied in disease monitoring and prediction of disease progression, in combination with serum NfL.
Small vessel disease burden and intracerebral haemorrhage in patients taking oral anticoagulants
Authors: Seiffge David J , Wilson Duncan , Ambler Gareth , Banerjee Gargi , Hostettler Isabel Charlotte , Houlden Henry , Shakeshaft Clare , Cohen Hannah , Yousry Tarek A , Al-Shahi Salman Rustam , Lip Gregory , Brown Martin M , Muir Keith , Jäger H.R , Werring David J
Published: March 2021

Objective

We investigated the contribution of small vessel disease (SVD) to anticoagulant-associated intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH).

Methods

Clinical Relevance of Microbleeds in Stroke-2 comprised two independent multicentre observation studies: first, a cross-sectional study of patients with ICH; and second, a prospective study of patients taking anticoagulants for atrial fibrillation (AF) after cerebral ischaemia. In patients with ICH, we compared SVD markers on CT and MRI according to prior anticoagulant therapy. In patients with AF and cerebral ischaemia treated with anticoagulants, we compared the rates of ICH and ischaemic stroke according to SVD burden score during 2 years follow-up.

Results

We included 1030 patients with ICH (421 on anticoagulants), and 1447 patients with AF and cerebral ischaemia. Medium-to-high severity SVD was more prevalent in patients with anticoagulant-associated ICH (CT 56.1%, MRI 78.7%) than in those without prior anticoagulant therapy (CT 43.5%, p<0.001; MRI 64.5%, p=0.072). Leukoaraiosis and atrophy were more frequent and severe in ICH associated with prior anticoagulation. In the cerebral ischaemia cohort (779 with SVD), during 3366 patient-years of follow-up the rate of ICH was 0.56%/year (IQR 0.27–1.03) in patients with SVD, and 0.06%/year (IQR 0.00–0.35) in those without (p=0.001); ICH was independently associated with severity of SVD (HR 5.0, 95% CI 1.9 to 12.2,p=0.001), and was predicted by models including SVD (c-index 0.75, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.85).

Conclusions

Medium-to-high severity SVD is associated with ICH occurring on anticoagulants, and independently predicts ICH in patients with AF taking anticoagulants; its absence identifies patients at low risk of ICH. Findings from these two complementary studies suggest that SVD is a contributory factor in ICH in patients taking anticoagulants and suggest that anticoagulation alone should no longer be regarded as a sufficient ‘cause’ of ICH.

Trial registration

NCT02513316
Sleep disturbance in movement disorders: insights, treatments and challenges
Authors: Bailey Grace A , Hubbard Emily K , Fasano Alfonso , Tijssen Marina AJ , Lynch Timothy , Anderson Kirstie N , Peall Kathryn J
Published: March 2021

Sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances are central features of many movement disorders, exacerbating motor and non-motor symptoms and impairing quality of life. Understanding these disturbances to sleep is clinically important and may further our understanding of the underlying movement disorder. This review evaluates the current anatomical and neurochemical understanding of normal sleep and the recognised primary sleep disorders. In addition, we undertook a systematic review of the evidence for disruption to sleep across multiple movement disorders. Rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder has emerged as the most reliable prodromal biomarker for the alpha synucleinopathies, including Parkinson’s disease and multiple system atrophy, often preceding motor symptom onset by several years. Abnormal sleep has also been described for many other movement disorders, but further evidence is needed to determine whether this is a primary or secondary phenotypic component of the underlying condition. Medication used in the treatment of motor symptoms also affects sleep and can aggravate or cause certain sleep disorders. Within the context of movement disorders, there is also some suggestion of a shared underlying mechanism for motor and sleep pathophysiology, with evidence implicating thalamic and brainstem structures and monoaminergic neurotransmission. This review highlights the need for an understanding of normal and abnormal sleep within the movement disorder clinic, an ability to screen for specific causes of poor sleep and to treat sleep disturbance to improve quality of life. Key sleep disorders also act as important biomarkers and have implications in diagnosis, prognosis and the development of future therapies.
What can data trusts for health research learn from participatory governance in biobanks?
Authors: Milne Richard , Sorbie Annie , Dixon-Woods Mary
Published: March 2021

New models of data governance for health data are a focus of growing interest in an era of challenge to the social licence. In this article, we reflect on what the data trust model, which is founded on principles of participatory governance, can learn from experiences of involving and engagement of members of the public and participants in the governance of large-scale biobanks. We distinguish between upstream and ongoing governance models, showing how they require careful design and operation if they are to deliver on aspirations for deliberation and participation. Drawing on this learning, we identify a set of considerations important to future design for data trusts as they seek to ensure just, proportionate and fair governance. These considerations relate to the timing of involvement of participants, patterns of inclusion and exclusion, and responsiveness to stakeholder involvement and engagement. We emphasise that the evolution of governance models for data should be matched by a commitment to evaluation.
Quantum contextuality of YO-13 rays
Authors: Zhou Jie , Meng Hui-Xian , Shang Wei-Min , Chen Jing-Ling
Published: March 2021

Quantum contextuality, a more general quantum correlation, is an important resource for quantum computing and quantum information processing. Meanwhile, quantum contextuality plays an important role in fundamental quantum physics. Yu and Oh (YO) proposed a proof of the Kochen–Specker theorem for a qutrit with only 13 rays. Here, we further study quantum contextuality of YO-13 rays using the inequality approach. The maximum quantum violation value of the optimal noncontextuality inequality constructed by YO-13 rays is increased to 11.9776 in the four-dimensional system, which is larger than 11.6667 in the qutrit system. The result shows that the set of YO-13 rays has stronger quantum contextuality in the four-dimensional system. Moreover, we provide an all-versus-nothing proof (i.e. Hardy-like proof) to study YO-13 rays without using any inequality, which is easily applied to experimental tests. Our results will further deepen the understanding of YO-13 rays.
Stochastic dynamic analysis of a Kaplan turbine system considering synergistic regulation
Authors: Wei Peng , Li Shouyi
Published: March 2021

A stochastic dynamic model of a Kaplan turbine is established in this paper during the transient process. When the Kaplan turbine operates with fluctuating load, the synergistic relationship between the guide vanes and blades experiences random fluctuation resulting from the mechanical, hydraulic and signal factors. To study the effect of stochastic fluctuations of the synergistic relationship, Chebyshev polynomial approximation method is adopted to analyze the stochastic dynamic characteristics of the Kaplan turbine during the transient process. Using Chebyshev polynomial approximation, the stochastic model of the Kaplan turbine is simplified to its equivalent deterministic model, and the stochastic dynamic characteristics of the model are investigated in the transient process. The effects of stochastic intensity on the dynamic behaviors of the Kaplan turbine are analyzed by means of numerical simulation. Moreover, the influences of PID parameters on the stochastic dynamic characteristics of the Kaplan turbine are studied through bifurcation diagrams. Analysis of stochastic characteristics and dynamic behaviors suggests that transient performance improvement can be obtained by controlling the synergistic stochastic intensity and PID parameters.
Traffic dynamics on two-layer networks with community structure
Authors: Ma Jinlong , Zhou Yi , Wang Weiheng , Zhang Yongqiang , Zhao Ruimei , Qi Zhaohui
Published: March 2021

In terms of reducing traffic congestion, it should be understood that traffic dynamics depend on network structure. Most of complex networks in the real world can be represented by multi-layer and community structures, that is, the connections within the community are relatively close, and the connections between the community are relatively sparse. There are generally strong and weak community networks in community networks. In this work, the strong and weak community networks are used to construct two-layer network models of different scales, and then the influence of community structure on traffic capacity is analyzed. The simulation results show that when the two-layer network model is composed of two strong community networks, the traffic capacity is the largest, followed by the two-layer network model composed of two weak community networks, the traffic capacity is also relatively large. When the two subnetworks are of different community strength, the traffic capacity is relatively small.
The temperature effect on ground state binding energy of a strong-coupling magnetopolaron in an asymmetrical Gaussian potential quantum well
Authors: Gaowa Saren , Miao Xiu-Juan , Xiao Jing-Lin , Zhao Cui-Lan
Published: March 2021

This paper utilized the methods of linear combination and unitary transformation to evaluate the vibrational frequency (VF) and ground state binding energy (GSBE) of a strong-coupling magnetopolaron in an asymmetrical Gaussian potential quantum well (AGPQW), and the effects of the temperature on these physical quantities were studied through quantum statistical theory. The changes of the VF and GSBE versus temperature and cyclotron frequency (CF) in a magnetic field were discussed. The numerical calculations revealed that with the increase of temperature, the VF and GSBE also increased. Meanwhile, the numerical results show that the VF increases with the increase of the CF. However, the GSBE versus the CF has different changing properties.
Performance of Commercial Li-Ion Cells for Future NASA Missions and Aerospace Applications
Authors: Krause F. C. , Ruiz J. P. , Jones S. C. , Brandon E. J. , Darcy E. C. , Iannello C. J. , Bugga R. V.
Published: March 2021

Li-ion batteries are being widely used in planetary missions, based on their impressive performance characteristics, including high specific energy, long life, and the ability to operate over a wide temperature range. Custom large-format Li-ion cells were used in the early planetary missions, e.g., Mars Rovers, Mars Landers, and Mars and Jupiter Orbiters. At the same time, several other robotic missions have utilized and are planning to utilize commercial 18650 lithium-ion cells, e.g., Mars Express, Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, Europa Clipper, as well as human-rated astronaut Extra-Vehicular Activities. Interest in commercial 18650 lithium-ion cells for NASA missions has increased in recent years due to distinct advantages over custom large-format cells, including higher specific energy and energy density, enhanced safety and reliability, modularity and redundancy in the battery design, and simpler charge methodology. Multiple commercial 18650 cells are available which can provide a specific energy of ∼250 Wh∙kg−1(20%–50% over custom cells) and a power density of ∼2 kW∙kg−1. Selected cell types with different chemistries and from multiple high-quality manufacturers, including the MJ1, M36, HG2 models from LG Chem; the 35E, 36 G and 30Q models from Samsung; the BJ and GA models from Sanyo/Panasonic; and the VC7 from Sony/Murata, were evaluated for their applicability in space applications. The performance tests included cycle life at different temperatures and depths of discharge, and high-power characterization at different temperatures; to supplement typical electrical measurements of voltage, capacity, and energy, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) was used to characterize the health of some cells on an ongoing basis. In addition, destructive physical analysis was carried out on these cells to analyze their electrode materials and correlate them with their performance characteristics. The demonstrated performance of several cells indicated their viability for further extensive space-qualification prior to their implementation in space missions.
The Impact of Sintering Atmosphere and Temperature on the Phase Evolution of High Surface Area LSCF Prepared by In Situ Carbon Templating
Authors: Muhoza Sixbert P. , Taylor Thomas H. , Song Xueyan , Gross Michael D.
Published: March 2021

The thermochemical stability of lanthanum strontium cobalt ferrite (LSCF) processed between 1000 °C–1200 °C via the in situ carbon templating method was studied. This method generates high surface area ceramics at traditional solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) sintering temperatures by generating a carbon template in situ and subsequently removing the template by oxidation at 700 °C. Argon processed samples produced an amorphous carbon template, whereas nitrogen tended to form graphitic carbon. Prior to the oxidation step, nitrogen samples comprised larger La2O3 crystallites (22–40 nm) compared to argon (9–17 nm). Upon oxidation, argon samples resulted in a pure LSCF phase with surface areas in the 21–29 m2·g−1 range, whereas nitrogen samples contained significant impurities. This demonstrates that the size of La2O3 crystallites formed during inert processing limited the ability to produce a pure LSCF phase. Symmetrical cells comprising nano-LSCF electrodes generated by the templating method were compared to cells sintered directly in air. Impedance results suggest that nano-LSCF cells and cells processed in air were dominated by interfacial charge transfer resistance and gas diffusion, respectively. The results map out conditions for preparing and integrating high surface area, nanostructured LSCF into SOFC electrodes at traditional sintering temperatures. Strategies for improving the interfacial resistance of nano-LSCF electrodes are discussed.
Modelling Sustainable Development Aspects within Inventory Supply Strategies
Authors: Bonilla-Enriquez Gladys , Cano-Olivos Patricia , Peng Li-Qun , Gan Weihua , Martinez-Flores Jose-Luis , Sanchez-Partida Diana
Published: March 2021

Nowadays, inventory management is a tool that must be extended to cover all aspects of the supply chain (SC). One of these aspects is Sustainable Development (SD) which emphasizes the balance between economic well-being, natural resources, and society. As inventory involves the use of natural and economic resources, the integration of SD criteria is important for a more efficient and sustainable SC. In this work, the most important SD variables associated with inventory management were identified. These variables were integrated as cost elements within a nondeterministic inventory control model to include SD criteria within inventory supply strategies. Through the assessment of the proposed integrated model, it was determined that, although SD practices involve additional investments, specific practices such as reuse/recycling and government incentives can increase revenue and profits. This is important for the development of government and business strategies to perform sustainable practices.
Investigation on Nonuniform Extension of Hydraulic Fracture in Shale Gas Formation
Authors: Zhao Zhiheng , Zheng Youcheng , Kang Yili , Zeng Bo , Song Yi
Published: March 2021

Hydraulic fracturing with multiple clusters has been a significant way to improve fracture complexity and achieve high utilization of shale formation. This technology has been widely applied in the main shale area of North America. In Changning shale block of China, it, as a promising treatment technology, is being used in horizontal well now. Due to the anisotropy of mechanical property and the stress shadowing effect between multiclusters, fractures would extend nonuniformly and even some clusters are invalid, leading to a poor treatment performance. In this work, based on the geology and engineering characteristics of Changning shale block, different cluster number, cluster spacing, perforation distribution, and flow rate were discussed by the numerical simulation method to clarify multifracture propagation. It is implied that with the reduction of cluster number and the growth of cluster spacing and flow rate, the length and average width of interior fractures are inclined to increase due to the mitigation of stress shadowing effect, contributing to the lower standard deviation (SD) of fracture length, but too small cluster number or too large cluster spacing is not recommended. Besides, the perforation distribution with more perforations in interior fractures can get larger length and average width of interior fractures compared with another two perforation distributions because of more fractional flow rates obtained, which results in more even fracture propagations. In Changning shale block, multicluster hydraulic fracturing with 4-6 clusters in a stage has been employed in 300-400 m well spacing, and diversion technology, limited-entry perforation (36-48 perforations per stage), high flow rate (16 m3/min), and small-sized ceramic proppant (100 mesh) are used to get better shale gas production. To promote the even propagation of fractures further, nonuniform perforation distribution should be introduced in the target shale area.
Robust Secure Beamforming Design for Cooperative Cognitive Radio Nonorthogonal Multiple Access Networks
Authors: Li Quanzhong , Zhao Sai
Published: March 2021

By the integration of cooperative cognitive radio (CR) and nonorthogonal multiple access (NOMA), cooperative CR NOMA networks can improve the spectrum efficiency of wireless networks significantly. Due to the openness and exposure of wireless signals, secure communication is an important issue for cooperative CR NOMA networks. In this paper, we investigate the physical layer security design for cooperative CR NOMA networks. Our objective is to achieve maximum secrecy rate of the secondary user by designing optimal beamformers and artificial noise covariance matrix at the multiantenna secondary transmitter under the quality-of-service at the primary user and the transmit power constraint at the secondary transmitter. We consider the practical case that the channel state information (CSI) of the eavesdropper is imperfect, and we model the imperfect CSI by the worst-case model. We show that the robust secrecy rate maximization problem can be transformed to a series of semidefinite programmings based on S-procedure and rank-one relaxation. We also propose an effective method to recover the optimal rank-one solution. Simulations are provided to show the effectiveness of our proposed robust secure algorithm with comparison to the nonrobust secure design and traditional orthogonal multiple access schemes.
Combined Lipidomics and Network Pharmacology Study of Protective Effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza against Blood Stasis Syndrome
Authors: Jin Yidian , Xie Zhiru , Li Shasha , Zeng Xiangyu , Wang Leqi , Hu Ping , Zhang Hongyang , Xiao Xue
Published: March 2021

Blood stasis syndrome (BSS) is one of the most common symptoms of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory. Previous studies have identified that Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen) has beneficial effects on BSS, but there is no relevant research from the perspective of lipidomics to study the mechanism of Danshen against BSS since hyperlipidemia has been the widely accepted risk factor of CVDs. In this study, lipidomics technology combined with network pharmacology was applied to investigate the pathological mechanism of BSS and the protective effects of Danshen. The lipidomics profiling based on the UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis method was applied to identify the differential metabolites in the plasma of blood stasis rats. The related pathway and potential targets involved in the anti-BSS effects of Danshen were predicted by pathway analysis and network pharmacology. The biochemical results showed that Danshen intervention significantly reduced whole blood viscosity (WBV) at all the shear rates and fibrinogen concentration (FIB)

p
<
0.01

and increased activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) effectively

p
<
0.01

. We also found that 52 lipid metabolites, including glycerophospholipid, sphingolipid, glycerolipid, plasmalogen, cholesterol ester, and testosterone, were associated with blood stasis. Moreover, Dgka, Hsd17b3, Hsd3b1, Inppl1, Lpl, Pik3ca, Pik3r1, Pla2g1b, Pla2g2a, Soat1, and Soat2 were predicted as potential targets, while glycerophospholipid metabolism, glycerolipid metabolism, steroid and steroid hormone biosynthesis, phosphatidylinositol signaling system, and ether lipid metabolism were involved as shared critical pathways of lipidomics analysis and network pharmacology. Collectively, this study offered a new understanding of the protection mechanism of Danshen against BSS, which provided new insight to explore the protective effects of Danshen.
Gold Nanoparticles Modified a Multimode Clad-Free Fiber for Ultrasensitive Detection of Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Huong Vu Thi , Phuong Nguyen Tran Truc , Tai Nguyen Tien , An Nguyen Thuy , Lam Vu Dinh , Manh Do Hung , Chi Tran Thi Kim , Mai Ngoc Xuan Dat , Phung Viet-Duc , Tran Nhu Hoa Thi
Published: March 2021

Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) were almost chosen as the first option for biological and biosensor applications due to their enhancement and their outstanding properties. The combining of optical fiber with localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) for forming a biosensor is widely used in diagnosis. In this work, we report a fiber optical biosensor based on LSPR of Au NPs for the detection of bovine serum albumin (BSA) protein. BSA was functionalized on Au NPs immobilized fiber optic sensing head (length of 1 cm) via methanesulfonic acid (MSA) by carboxylic binding. It is the binding between the analytes with the surface-modified Au NPs that caused refractive index changes in the sensing medium led to changes in optical power at the output of the sensor. The detection limit of the LSPR fiber biosensor was found to be 0.18 ng/mL for the BSA detection with the low coefficient of variation (CV) at under 1%. We have demonstrated the effectiveness of combining multimode fiber with Au NPs to generate the biosensor as the label-free sensor that can be a feasible tool for highly sensitive, rapid response time, stable, and miniaturized point-of-care analytical systems.
Serum ICAM‐1 as a Predictor of Prognosis in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Lei , Chen Yan , Feng Depeng , Wang Xiaoling
Published: March 2021

Objective. Inflammation is one of the key mechanisms involved in functional impairment after stroke. Intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) is an important inflammatory molecule in the body. The purpose of our study was to determine the correlation between ICAM‐1 and the prognosis of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Methods. 286 AIS patients treated at Beijing Tiantan Hospital were continuously included in the study. The demographic data of the patients were collected, and the fasting blood within 24 hours of admission was collected to detect the clinical indicators. The functional prognosis was measured using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 3 months after stroke. The poor prognosis is defined as mRS ≥ 3. The enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the serum ICAM‐1 levels. Results. The serum ICAM‐1 levels of patients with poor prognosis were significantly higher than that of patients with good prognosis (144.2 ± 14.8 vs 117.5 ± 12.1 pg/ml). Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis showed that the sensitivity and specificity of serum ICAM‐1 for predicting the prognosis of AIS were 74% and 76%, respectively. In logistic regression analysis, the serum ICAM‐1 level is still an independent predictor of poor prognosis (odds ratio [OR]: 0.52; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.318‐0.839). Conclusions. Higher serum ICAM‐1 levels on admission in AIS patients might increase the risk of poor prognosis.
A Study of a New Technique of the CT Scan View and Disease Classification Protocol Based on Level Challenges in Cases of Coronavirus Disease
Authors: Salem Salamh Ahmed B. , Salamah Abdulrauf A. , Akyüz Halil Ibrahim
Published: March 2021

The chest Computer Tomography (CT scan) is used in the diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and is an important complement to the Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test. The paper aims to improve the radiological diagnosis in the case of coronavirus disease COVID-19 pneumonia on forms of noninvasive approaches with conventional and high-resolution computer tomography (HRCT) scan images upon chest CT images of patients confirmed with mild to severe findings. The preliminary study is to compare the radiological findings of COVID-19 pneumonia in conventional chest CT images with images processed by a new tool and reviewed by expert radiologists. The researchers used a new filter called Golden Key Tool (GK-Tool) which has confirmed the improvement in the quality and diagnostic efficacy of images acquired using our modified images. Further, Convolution Neural Networks (CNNs) architecture called VGG face was used to classify chest CT images. The classification has been performed by using VGG face on various datasets which are considered as a protocol to diagnose COVID-19, Non-COVID-19 (other lung diseases), and normal cases (no findings on chest CT). Accordingly, the performance evaluation of the GK-Tool was fairly good as shown in the first set of results, where 80–95% of participants show a good to excellent assessment of the new images view in the case of COVID-19 patients. The results, in general, illustrate good recognition rates in the diagnosis and, therefore, would be significantly higher in normal cases with COVID-19. These results could reduce the radiologist’s workload burden and play a major role in the decision-making process.
Influence of Geographic Origin and Plant Source on Physicochemical Properties, Mineral Content, and Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Moroccan Propolis
Authors: El Menyiy Naoual , Bakour Meryem , El Ghouizi Asmae , El Guendouz Soukaina , Lyoussi Badiaa
Published: March 2021

This research is aimed at determining the physicochemical properties (resin, wax, balsams, pH, moisture, ash, and mineral contents) of propolis samples collected from different geographical areas in Morocco, as well as evaluating the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of these samples. The results showed the following values for physicochemical analysis: resin (17.42-58.01%), wax (21.31-70.12%), balsam (0.27-2.12%), pH (3.7-5.3), moisture (1.02-3.65%), and ash (0.72-5.01%). The phenolic and flavone/flavonol contents of samples were ranged between 6.74 mg FAE/g and 149.13 mg FAE/g and between 1.19 mg QE/g and 108.11 mg QE/g, respectively. The sample P3 presented also the strongest radical scavenging activity toward DPPH, ABTS free radicals, and FRAP assay with IC50 values of 0.021, 0.026, and 0.042 mg/mL, respectively. All propolis samples showed significant inhibitory effects against all tested microorganisms with MICs ranging from 0.28 mg/mL to 1.12 mg/mL for Gram-negative strains and from 0.002 mg/mL to 1.12 mg/mL for Gram-positive strains. A strong correlation was found between resin, total phenolic compounds, flavones/flavonols, and antioxidant activity. Linear discriminant analysis revealed that the samples studied were divided into two groups which were differentiated by the data of antioxidant activity, mineral contents, and antibacterial activity. It can be concluded that the physicochemical properties, mineral content, and biological activities of Moroccan propolis depend on their geographical and botanical origin.
Limit Cycles of a Class of Perturbed Differential Systems via the First‐Order Averaging Method
Authors: Menaceur Amor , Boulaaras Salah Mahmoud , Makhlouf Amar , Rajagobal Karthikeyan , Abdalla Mohamed
Published: March 2021

By means of the averaging method of the first order, we introduce the maximum number of limit cycles which can be bifurcated from the periodic orbits of a Hamiltonian system. Besides, the perturbation has been used for a particular class of the polynomial differential systems.
Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy in the Shortest Buccal Bone Marrow Distances of the Mandible on the Coronal Plane
Authors: Chen Chun-Ming , Hsu Han-Jen , Chen Ping-Ho , Liang Shih-Wei , Lin I-Ling , Hsu Kun-Jung
Published: March 2021

Purpose. This study investigated the relationship between the shortest buccal bone marrow of the ramus and skeletal patterns. Materials and Methods. Using cone‐beam computed tomography data (specifically, the A point‐nasion‐B point (ANB) angle), we divided patients into three groups as follows: skeletal class I (0° < ANB < 4°), class II (ANB: ≥4°), and class III (ANB: ≤0°). Sixteen vertical sections in the coronal plane were taken starting from slice 0 (original intact mandibular canal) anteriorly at 2 mm intervals to slice 15 (30 mm). The thickness of the mandible (M) and shortest buccal bone marrow (SBM) were measured. The data of SBM were divided into two groups (SBM ≥ 1 mm and SBM < 1 mm). For each skeletal pattern, an SBM value < 1 mm was considered to indicate a high possibility of postoperative nerve paresthesia and bad split. Results. The three skeletal pattern groups also did not significantly differ in their M values for all sections. The mean SBM values of class III (0.91–2.11 mm) at 6–16 mm anterior to the mandibular foramen were significantly smaller than those of class II (1.53–3.17 mm). Comparing the occurrence ratio of SBM < 1 mm, the highest and lowest probabilities in class III (55% and 21.7%, respectively) were significantly larger at 6–20 mm anterior to the mandibular foramen than those in class II (28.3% and 5%, respectively). Conclusion. Class III had a significantly shorter SBM distance and higher SBM occurrence probability than class II at the mandibular ramus region, implying that class III participants are more likely than class II participants to have nerve paresthesia and bad split after sagittal split ramus osteotomy.
Patient Mix Optimization in Admission Planning under Multitype Patients and Priority Constraints
Authors: Li Jialing , Luo Li , Zhu Guiju
Published: March 2021

Hospital beds are one of the most critical medical resources. Large hospitals in China have caused bed utilization rates to exceed 100% due to long-term extra beds. To alleviate the contradiction between the supply of high-quality medical resources and the demand for hospitalization, in this paper, we address the decision of choosing a case mix for a respiratory medicine department. We aim to generate an optimal admission plan of elective patients with the stochastic length of stay and different resource consumption. We assume that we can classify elective patients according to their registration information before admission. We formulated a general integer programming model considering heterogeneous patients and introducing patient priority constraints. The mathematical model is used to generate a scientific and reasonable admission planning, determining the best admission mix for multitype patients in a period. Compared with model II that does not consider priority constraints, model I proposed in this paper is better in terms of admissions and revenue. The proposed model I can adjust the priority parameters to meet the optimal output under different goals and scenarios. The daily admission planning for each type of patient obtained by model I can be used to assist the patient admission management in large general hospitals.
Numerical Analysis on Reinforcement Range of a Closed Steel Sleeve against Collapse
Authors: Yin Qing-Feng
Published: March 2021

Before the shield machine begins to excavate, the end of the station structure often requires extensive soil reinforcement to ensure construction safety. Closed steel sleeve can prevent water leakage, sand leakage, and cave door collapse by balancing the water and soil pressure on the tunnel surface, thereby reducing the reinforcement range. In this study, a launching project of a closed steel sleeve is investigated; the Madis GTS finite element analysis software is used to simulate the triple‐tube high‐pressure jet‐grouting pile to reinforce the water‐rich sand layer. Soil displacement and stress after opening of the tunnel door are studied in detail at different longitudinal reinforcement lengths and transverse reinforcement scopes. The results show that, as the longitudinal reinforcement length increases, the displacement of the soil shows a decreasing trend, and the greater the length of the reinforced soil, the smaller the reduction in displacement. Furthermore, with the decrease of the lateral reinforcement range, though the soil settlement area has increased, the displacement remains unchanged. However, changing the end reinforcement range has no effect on the soil stress. In general, based on the strength and stability of the soil after the gate is cut out, the reinforcement range of the closed steel sleeve can be appropriately reduced compared to traditional reinforcement methods.
Security and Privacy of Cloud‐ and IoT‐Based Medical Image Diagnosis Using Fuzzy Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Deepika J. , Rajan C. , Senthil T.
Published: March 2021

In recent times, security in cloud computing has become a significant part in healthcare services specifically in medical data storage and disease prediction. A large volume of data are produced in the healthcare environment day by day due to the development in the medical devices. Thus, cloud computing technology is utilised for storing, processing, and handling these large volumes of data in a highly secured manner from various attacks. This paper focuses on disease classification by utilising image processing with secured cloud computing environment using an extended zigzag image encryption scheme possessing a greater tolerance to different data attacks. Secondly, a fuzzy convolutional neural network (FCNN) algorithm is proposed for effective classification of images. The decrypted images are used for classification of cancer levels with different layers of training. After classification, the results are transferred to the concern doctors and patients for further treatment process. Here, the experimental process is carried out by utilising the standard dataset. The results from the experiment concluded that the proposed algorithm shows better performance than the other existing algorithms and can be effectively utilised for the medical image diagnosis.
Study on Surrounding Rock Deformation Mechanism and Control of Roadway with Large Section and Extra‐Thick Top Coal
Authors: Yang Yuliang , Li Xiaobin , Li Pengfei
Published: March 2021

In order to solve the problem of safe and rapid excavation and support of roadway with large section and extra‐thick top coal under complex geological conditions, the deformation mechanism and control of roadway are analyzed by means of field investigation, numerical simulation, theoretical analysis, and field practice, taking the 2203 transportation roadway of a mine in Shanxi Province as the engineering background. The results show the following: (1) the concentration of normal tensile stress in the middle of large‐span roadway roof and end shear stress is significant, which may easily lead to the separation of roof and the extrusion deformation of surrounding rock; (2) the surface shear failure depth of the roadway side is large, and the insufficient length of the bolt, the small density of the protective side, and the insufficient support strength are easy to cause the bulge and splitting of the coal wall; (3) roof joints and fractures are developed, and the dirt band of different thickness occurs, so it is easy for the roof separation and the anchor solids to cut down along the weak surface of the dirt band; (4) the geological structure produces horizontal movement of surrounding rock, which easily leads to poor supporting effect of roadway roof and material deformation and failure. Finally, a safe and economic comprehensive support system of “high‐strength, high‐resistance, and high‐prestressed anchor cable support system + high‐strength support of the two sides roadway + U‐shaped anchor cable combined truss” is proposed, and the control mechanism is explained and applied successfully in the field.
A Note on the Integration of Scalar Fourth-Order Ordinary Differential Equations with Four-Dimensional Symmetry Algebras
Authors: Shah Said Waqas , Mahomed F. M. , Azad H.
Published: March 2021

The complete integration of scalar fourth-order ODEs with four-dimensional symmetry algebras is performed by utilizing Lie’s method which was invoked to integrate scalar second-order ODEs admitting two-dimensional symmetry algebras. We obtain a complete integration of all scalar fourth-order ODEs that possess four Lie point symmetries.
Determination of Organochlorine Pesticides in Green Leafy Vegetable Samples via Fe3O4 Magnetic Nanoparticles Modified QuEChERS Integrated to Dispersive Liquid-Liquid Microextraction Coupled with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Yu Ling , Guo Guiquan , Zhao Jun , Zhao Linnan , Xia Aiqing , He Xu , Xing Cuijuan , Dong Lili , Wang Fang
Published: March 2021

A fast method based on Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4 MNPs) modified QuEChERS integrated to dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was established for the determination of 8 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in green leafy vegetables. The factors involved in the purification by QuEChERS and concentration by DLLME were optimized. In the QuEChERS process, Fe3O4 MNPs were used as a new impurity adsorbent after the sample extraction procedure by acetonitrile, which achieved phase separation rapidly. Carbon black was used as an alternative to costly graphitized carbon black without affecting the recovery. In the process of DLLME, 1 mL of the extract obtained by QuEChERS was used as the dispersive solvent, 40 μL of chloroform was used as the extractive solvent, and 4 mL of water was added. Making them mix well, then the dispersed liquid-liquid microextraction concentration was subsequently carried out. The enrichment factors of 8 OCPs ranged from 22.8 to 36.6. The recoveries of the proposed method ranged from 78.6% to 107.7%, and the relative standard deviations were not more than 7.5%. The limits of detection and limits of quantification were 0.15–0.32 μg/kg and 0.45–0.96 μg/kg, respectively. The method has been successfully applied to the determination of OCPs in green leafy vegetable samples.
[Retracted] A Nomogram Predicting the Prognosis of Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients with Lung Metastases
Authors: Sheng Xinyu , Lu Xuan , Wu Jian , Chen Lu , Cao Hongcui
Published: March 2021

Background. The optimal tool for predicting the survival of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients with lung metastases remains controversial. Methods. We selected patients diagnosed with RCC and lung metastases, from 2010 to 2015, from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. After the selection of inclusion criteria and exclusion criterion, the rest of the patients were incorporated into model analysis. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression was used to select the most important features for construction of a nomogram predicting cancer‐specific survival. A calibration plot and the concordance index (C‐index) were used to estimate nomogram efficacy in a validation cohort. The association between important factors selected by LASSO regression, and prognosis was assessed by the Kaplan‐Meier (KM) survival curve. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn to compare sensitivity and specificity between the nomogram we built and the TNM stage‐based model. Results. A total of 1,369 patients met the inclusion criteria, but not the exclusion criteria. The LASSO regression model reduced 15 features to seven potential predictors of survival, including tumor grade, the extent of surgery, N and T status, histological profile, and brain and bone metastasis status. Such features had good discrimination in the KM survival curves. The nomogram showed excellent discriminatory power (C‐index, 0.71; 95% confidence interval: 0.70 to 0.72) and good calibration in terms of both 1‐ and 2‐year cancer‐specific survival. The nomogram showed great discriminatory power (C‐index 0.68) and adequate calibration when applied to the validation cohort. The areas under the curve (AUCs) of nomogram were 0.767 and 0.780, respectively, and the AUCs of TNM stage were 0.617 and 0.618 at 1 and 2 years, respectively. Conclusions. Our nomogram might play a major role in predicting the cancer‐specific survival of RCC patients with lung metastases.
Research Achievements of Oral Submucous Fibrosis: Progress and Prospect
Authors: Xu Hui , Lyu Feng-yuan , Song Jiang-yuan , Xu Yu-ming , Jiang Er-hui , Shang Zheng-Jun , Chen Li-li , Xu Zhi
Published: March 2021

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a kind of chronic, insidious disease, and it is categorized into potentially malignant disorders (PMD), which poses a global and regional problem to public health. It is considered to be a multifactorial disease, such as due to areca nut chewing, trace element disorders, and genetic susceptibility. However, there is still no unanimous conclusion on its pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment strategies. Hence, this article provides a comprehensive review and prospect of OSMF research, providing scholars and clinicians with a better perspective and new ideas for the research and treatment of OSMF.