bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A trauma‐related survival predictive model of acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Tang Rui , Wang Hanghang , Peng Junnan , Wang Daoxin
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to construct and validate a simple model for the prediction of survival in patients with trauma‐related ARDS.

Methods

This is a single‐center, retrospective cohort study using MIMIC‐III Clinical Database.

Results

842 patients were included in this study. 175 (20.8%) died in‐hospital, whereas 215 (25.5%) died within 90 days. The deceased group had higher Acute Physiology Score (APS III), Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA), and Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (SAPS II). In multivariate logistic regression model, independent risk factors for mortality in ARDS patients included age ([odds ratio] OR, 1.035; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.020–1.049), body mass index (OR, 0.957; 95% CI, 0.926–0.989), red blood cell distribution width (OR, 1.283; 95% CI, 1.141–1.443), hematocrit (OR, 1.055; 95% CI, 1.017–1.095), lactate (OR, 1.226; 95% CI, 1.127–1.334), blood urea nitrogen (OR, 1.025; 95% CI, 1.007–1.044), acute kidney failure (OR, 1.875; 95% CI, 1.188–2.959), sepsis (OR, 1.917; 95% CI, 1.165–3.153), type of admission (emergency vs. elective [OR, 2.822; 95% CI, 1.647–4.837], and urgent vs. elective [OR, 5.156; 95% CI, 1.896–14.027]). The area under the curve (AUC) of the model was 0.826, which was superior than the SAPS II (0.776), APS III (0.718), and SOFA (0.692). In the cross‐validation model, the accuracy of the test set was 0.823, the precision was 0.643, and the AUC was 0.813.

Conclusions

We established a prediction model using data commonly used in the clinic, which has high accuracy and precision and is worthy of use in clinical practice.
Monocyte to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio as an independent risk factor for papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Xu Hongzhi , Pang Yufeng , Li Xueqing , Zha Bingbing , He Tao , Ding Heyuan
Published: September 2021

Background

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is considered to be an inflammatory disease. This study aimed to investigate the association of monocyte to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (MHR) with PTC.

Methods

Clinical parameters from 300 patients with PTC and 552 patients with benign thyroid nodule were compared. Serum renal function and liver enzymes, fasting plasma glucose, lipid profile, and blood cell count were measured.

Results

Patients with PTC had a higher MONO (p < 0.001) and MHR (p < 0.001). There was a step‐wise increase in the prevalence of PTC (p = 0.003) with the tertile of MHR. Logistic regression analysis revealed that MHR could be considered an independent risk factor (p < 0.001) in the case‐control study and the cohort study. Pearson correlation analysis and simple linear regression analysis indicated that MHR was positively associated with neutrophil (NEU) and lymphocyte (LYM) count as well as neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Area under the curve (AUC) was 0.711. The optimal cutoff of MHR was 0.33 × 109/mmol.

Conclusion

This study identifies novel evidence that patients with PTC have a higher MHR. MHR is an independent risk factor for PTC. These findings support the application of MHR to predict, diagnose, and evaluate the occurrence of PTC.
Factors Influencing Change in Serum Uric Acid After Administration of the Sodium‐Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor Luseogliflozin in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Chino Yukihiro , Kuwabara Masanari , Hisatome Ichiro
Published: September 2021

Although sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors lower serum uric acid, their long‐term effect on uric acid metabolism is not well understood. We analyzed pooled data from studies wherein patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus received luseogliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor. Upon stratifying patients by baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) or serum uric acid, lower HbA1c or higher serum uric acid level was associated with a greater reduction in serum uric acid after treatment. At week 12 of treatment, significant increases in urinary glucose/creatinine (Cr) ratio and urinary uric acid clearance/Cr clearance ratio (CUA/CCr ratio) and a significant reduction in serum uric acid were observed. Comparison of the subgroups of patients with a reduction or an increase in serum uric acid showed that the increase subgroup had a higher estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at baseline, and the eGFR was significantly reduced, associated with a significant reduction in the CUA/CCr ratio. Multiple regression analysis showed that the reduction in serum uric acid in the luseogliflozin group was strongly associated with baseline high serum uric acid, low HbA1c levels, and an increase in eGFR. Luseogliflozin was shown to reduce serum uric acid by enhancing urinary uric acid excretion in association with increased urinary glucose. Treatment with luseogliflozin resulted in increased serum uric acid in some patients, which may be due to reduced glomerular filtration of uric acid via the tubuloglomerular feedback. SGLT2 inhibitors reduced serum uric acid desirably in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with low HbA1c and high serum uric acid.
Prediction of soil solution concentrations and leaching losses of cadmium in agricultural soils
Authors: Gray Colin William , Cavanagh Jo‐Anne Elizabeth
Published: September 2021

Cadmium (Cd) leaching is often estimated in Cd balance models using the product of drainage water (precipitation excess) and soil solution Cd concentration. However, Cd concentrations are seldom available but rather predicted using empirical models. Despite the availability of empirical models that estimate soil solution Cd concentrations, they have limitations for use in New Zealand where total Cd in agricultural soils is low and organic matter (OM) high. This study derived a Freundlich‐type model from desorption data and a soil–liquid partitioning coefficient (KD) model based on sorption data to predict soil solution Cd concentrations from commonly measured soil parameters that could be used to calculate Cd leaching fluxes. Independent soil solution Cd concentrations and Cd fluxes measured in drainage water from field trials were used to validate the predictive capacity of the models. It was found that soil pH and OM content were the most important factors controlling soil solution Cd, along with total Cd. Both models explained 83% of the variation in measured soil solution Cd concentrations in an independent dataset. Comparisons between Cd fluxes predicted using the Freundlich‐type model and measured fluxes were within 25% of each other at 6 of 19 field sites studied. However, physical and chemical nonequilibrium conditions in soils and uncertainty in measured values likely contributed to differences between predicted and measured Cd fluxes at other sites. To unravel the impact of nonequilibrium and soil physical conditions on Cd concentrations in drainage water, more data are required on Cd concentrations collected under field conditions. This will allow better validation of the approach used in Cd balance models to calculate Cd leaching from soils.
Updates to the Spectrum/AIM model for the UNAIDS 2020 HIV estimates
Authors: Stover John , Glaubius Robert , Kassanjee Reshma , Dugdale Caitlin M.
Published: September 2021

Introduction

The Spectrum/AIM model is used by national HIV programs and UNAIDS to prepare annual estimates of key HIV indicators. This article describes key updates to paediatric and adult models for the 2021 round of HIV estimates.

Methods

Potential updates to Spectrum arise due to newly available data, new analyses of existing data, and the need for new issues to be addressed. Updates are guided by experts through the UNAIDS Reference Group on Estimates, Modelling and Projections. Changes are tested and assessed for impact before being accepted into the final model.

Results

Spectrum tracks children living with HIV by CD4% for ages 0–4 and CD4 count for ages 5–14. Data from IeDEA treatment sites have been used to map the transition from CD4% to CD4 count at age 5. Breastfeeding patterns in sub‐Saharan Africa have been updated with the latest survey data and estimates of continuation on antiretroviral therapy (ART) with breastfeeding have been revised based on recent studies. Model assumptions about the CD4 counts of people who drop out of ART have been revised to account for CD4 count increases while on treatment. If available, monthly data on numbers on ART can now be used to estimate the effects of COVID‐19‐related disruptions during 2020.

Conclusions

These changes are intended to provide more accurate estimates of HIV burden. The effects of these changes on paediatric indicators are small except in countries with new surveys that might have updated patterns of breastfeeding. Changes to the adult model have little effect on total new infections. AIDS‐related deaths will be somewhat lower in countries that have data on ART drop out but might be increased by HIV care disruptions due to COVID‐19. The updated model uses newly available data to improve the estimation of paediatric and adult HIV indicators.
Progress towards 2020 global HIV impact and treatment targets
Authors: Mahy Mary I. , Sabin Keith M. , Feizzadeh Ali , Wanyeki Ian
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Over the past 20 years, the response to the HIV epidemic has achieved remarkable results. These results have often been motivated by targets adopted by countries through United Nations (UN) Political Declarations on HIV. The 2016 political declaration included two impact targets, to achieve a 75% decline in new HIV infections and AIDS‐related deaths between 2010 and 2020, and to reach the 90‐90‐90 testing and treatment targets by 2020. Our objective is to summarize progress towards these targets using robust and comparable HIV estimates released by UNAIDS in July 2021. In addition, we comment on the importance of targets and the modelled estimates required to quantify those targets.

Discussion

The UNAIDS estimates indicate that at the global and regional levels, the 2020 targets were missed: new infections declined by 31% and AIDS‐related deaths declined by 47% between 2010 and 2020, compared to a target of 75% decline for both indicators. Similarly, no region achieved the 90‐90‐90 testing and treatment targets. Some countries, in diverse settings, achieved these targets showing that the targets were not overly ambitious if the right funding, policies and evidence‐informed interventions at the right scale were in place. The 2021 UN Political Declaration on HIV, adopted on 8 June 2021, has set out a new set of ambitious but achievable targets for 2025. The 2025 targets and the required actions to reach those targets are described in the Global AIDS Strategy 2021–2026, which provides a framework to reprioritize HIV responses by reducing inequalities and building on the achievements of multiple Sustainable Development Goals. The Strategy encourages countries to monitor progress against targets for different geographic areas and populations to maximize equitable services and ensure accountability and also to understand why targets are being missed.

Conclusions

The UNAIDS epidemiological estimates provide information that promote accountability and estimate progress towards global targets at the national level. Additional strategic information and analyses are required to identify the populations that are furthest from the targets and the programmes and policies that are keeping countries from meeting their targets.
Sleep Endoscopy Patterns in Six Adults With Trisomy 21 and Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Porterfield Lee , Bacak Bartholomew , Karelsky Sveta
Published: September 2021

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is prevalent amongst individuals with Trisomy 21 (T21). This case series describes the results of drug‐induced sleep endoscopy of six adult patients with OSA and T21 and compares the patterns of collapse to those observed in adults without T21. Predominantly hypopharyngeal airway collapse was found in four of the six (66.7%) subjects with T21, a much higher proportion than in the general population. This finding may implicate anatomic differences underlying the increased prevalence of OSA in individuals with T21 and may have treatment implications. Laryngoscope, 132:485–487, 2022
Safety of Ibuprofen in Children With G6PD Deficiency: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pankey Ashley N. , Chandar Ashwin , Isaacson Glenn
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Ibuprofen is included on websites and frequently referenced lists as medium risk for inducing hemolysis in children with glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. This presents a challenge for otolaryngologists who perform tonsillectomy and other surgeries in children, as ibuprofen serves as an important alternative to opioids for perioperative pain control. We systematically review published literature and national medication databases to evaluate the risk of hemolytic anemia and related complications when ibuprofen is used in children with G6PD deficiency.

Methods

Systematic literature review using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses methodology. National drug adverse reaction database inquiry.

Results

Our search yielded 774 results for review consideration. Of these, three studies were included in our final analysis (two retrospective case‐series, and one nonrandomized prospective study). The prospective study showed no evidence of hemolysis from perioperative exposure to ibuprofen or other non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in children with G6PD deficiency at high risk. Two population studies in the Middle East suggested extremely low incidence of ibuprofen‐related hemolysis (approximate 1/100,000 affected children per year). United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Medicine Agency, and Health Canada adverse drug reaction databases reveled reported ibuprofen‐related hematologic adverse reactions of approximate 1/100 million affected children per year.

Conclusions

There is scant, low‐quality evidence of hemolytic anemia caused by ibuprofen in children with G6PD deficiency. If an association does exist, it is extremely rare. Drug‐induced hemolytic anemias are recognizable and reversible following discontinuation of the inciting medication. Given these low risks, ibuprofen should be considered an appropriate choice in the management of perioperative pain in children with G6PD deficiency.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 132:1300–1305, 2022
A Polyester/Polypyrrole Textile‐Based Ultrasensitive Wearable Microdistance Sensor
Authors: Chen Ruoqi , Ma Xinlei , Chai Yuqiao , Hua Kun , Gui Qinyuan , He Yonglin , Yang Xiubin , Zhu Nan , Wang Yapei , Ji Junhui , Zhang Xueji , Xue Mianqi
Published: September 2021

Microdistance sensor, which can accurately detect the microdistance change, possesses significant applications in the cutting‐edge technologies including biomedicine, energy storage, and info‐communications. However, the high cost, complicated operation, and stringent testing requirements of the existing microdistance sensors limit their widespread application in the frontier fields, especially for the intelligent wearable electronics. Herein, a novel mechanism to detect microdistance change is developed, in which the external microdistance brings a change in the thickness of conductive textile and further converts into a distinguishable electrical signal. The polyester/polypyrrole (PET/PPy) conductive textile is fabricated via in situ solventless polymerization, and the derived microdistance sensor exhibits an ultrahigh sensitivity of 179 m−1 within the detection region of 10–480 µm, a high resolution up to 5 µm, and good stability. The excellent sensing performance can be attributed to the high elasticity, deformation‐recovery property, and 3D network structures of the PET/PPy conductive textile. Furthermore, the wearable sensor is applied to detect the microdistance changes in human and robot activities, providing an efficient and low‐cost solution for microdistance detection in intelligent medical, health monitoring system, and biomimetic robot.
Plan S: An economist's perspective
Authors: Armstrong Mark
Published: September 2021

Many scholarly journals charge high prices to research libraries and generate high profits. Open access regulation, in its various forms, can mitigate this problem. This essay examines one particular policy, “Plan S,” which aims broadly to require regulated authors to publish their research in open access journals, which among other drawbacks of the policy greatly limits their publishing options.
Generalized Grassmann algebras and applications to stochastic processes
Authors: Alpay Daniel , Cerejeiras Paula , Kaehler Uwe
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we present the groundwork for an Itô/Malliavin stochastic calculus and Hida's white noise analysis in the context of a supersymmetry with
‐graded algebras. To this end, we establish a ternary Fock space and the corresponding strong algebra of stochastic distributions and present its application in the study of stochastic processes in this context.
Guaranteed‐cost finite‐time consensus of multi‐agent systems via intermittent control
Authors: Luo Yiping , Wang Xueer , Cao Jinde
Published: September 2021

The guaranteed‐cost finite‐time consensus control problem for a class of nonlinear multi‐agent systems with uncertain parameters was investigated. For a class of nonlinear multi‐agent systems with uncertain parameters, a periodic intermittent control strategy and a continuous feedback control strategy were designed, and the guaranteed‐cost consensus control of the system was investigated using Lyapunov stability theory and matrix inequality technology. Several sufficient conditions to achieve the guaranteed‐cost finite‐time consensus were obtained. It was demonstrated that the multi‐agent system could achieve consensus in a finite time under certain conditions, and the upper bound of the time was given to make the system achieve consensus in finite time. The upper bound of the guaranteed‐cost function was also obtained. Finally, simulations were provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Robustness of deep learning segmentation of cardiac substructures in noncontrast computed tomography for breast cancer radiotherapy
Authors: Jin Xiyao , Thomas Maria A. , Dise Joseph , Kavanaugh James , Hilliard Jessica , Zoberi Imran , Robinson Clifford G. , Hugo Geoffrey D.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To develop and evaluate deep learning‐based autosegmentation of cardiac substructures from noncontrast planning computed tomography (CT) images in patients undergoing breast cancer radiotherapy and to investigate the algorithm sensitivity to out‐of‐distribution data such as CT image artifacts.

Methods

Nine substructures including aortic valve (AV), left anterior descending (LAD), tricuspid valve (TV), mitral valve (MV), pulmonic valve (PV), right atrium (RA), right ventricle (RV), left atrium (LA), and left ventricle (LV) were manually delineated by a radiation oncologist on noncontrast CT images of 129 patients with breast cancer; among them 90 were considered in‐distribution data, also named as “clean” data. The image/label pairs of 60 subjects were used to train a 3D deep neural network while the remaining 30 were used for testing. The rest of the 39 patients were considered out‐of‐distribution (“outlier”) data, which were used to test robustness. Random rigid transformations were used to augment the dataset during training. We investigated multiple loss functions, including Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), cross‐entropy (CE), Euclidean loss as well as the variation and combinations of these, data augmentation, and network size on overall performance and sensitivity to image artifacts due to infrequent events such as the presence of implanted devices. The predicted label maps were compared to the ground‐truth labels via DSC and mean and 90th percentile symmetric surface distance (90th‐SSD).

Results

When modified Dice combined with cross‐entropy (MD‐CE) was used as the loss function, the algorithm achieved a mean DSC = 0.79 ± 0.07 for chambers and  0.39 ± 0.10 for smaller substructures (valves and LAD). The mean and 90th‐SSD were 2.7 ± 1.4 and 6.5 ± 2.8 mm for chambers and 4.1 ± 1.7 and 8.6 ± 3.2 mm for smaller substructures. Models with MD‐CE, Dice‐CE, MD, and weighted CE loss had highest performance, and were statistically similar. Data augmentation did not affect model performances on both clean and outlier data and model robustness was susceptible to network size. For a certain type of outlier data, robustness can be improved via incorporating them into the training process. The execution time for segmenting each patient was on an average 2.1 s.

Conclusions

A deep neural network provides a fast and accurate segmentation of large cardiac substructures in noncontrast CT images. Model robustness of two types of clinically common outlier data were investigated and potential approaches to improve them were explored. Evaluation of clinical acceptability and integration into clinical workflow are pending.
Enhanced identification of Tau acetylation and phosphorylation with an engineered aerolysin nanopore
Authors: Huo Ming‐Zhu , Hu Zheng‐Li , Ying Yi‐Lun , Long Yi‐Tao
Published: September 2021

Posttranslational modifications (PTMs) affect protein function/dysfunction, playing important roles in the occurrence and development of tauopathies including Alzheimer's disease. PTM detection is significant and still challenging due to the requirements of high sensitivity to identify the subtle structural differences between modifications. Herein, in terms of the unique geometry of the aerolysin (AeL) nanopore, we elaborately engineered a T232K AeL nanopore to detect the acetylation and phosphorylation of Tau segment (Pep). By replacing neutral threonine (T) with positively charged lysine (K) at the 232 sites, the T232K and K238 rings of this engineered T232K AeL nanopore corporately work together to enhance electrostatic trapping of the acetylated and phosphorylated Tau peptides. Translocation speed of the monophosphorylated Pep‐P was decelerated by up to 46 folds compared to the wild‐type (WT) AeL nanopore. The prolonged residences within the T232K AeL nanopore enabled to simultaneously identify the monoacetylated Pep‐Ac, monophosphorylated Pep‐P, di‐modified Pep‐P‐Ac and non‐modified Pep. The tremendous potential is demonstrated for PTM sensing by manipulating non‐covalent interactions between nanopores and single analytes.
Knowledge about risk factors for cancer and cancer risk behavior among patients with severe mental illness
Authors: Grassi Luigi , Caruso Rosangela , Biancosino Bruno , Belvederi Murri Martino , Riba Michelle , Meggiolaro Elena , Ruffilli Federica , Palagini Laura , Nanni Maria Giulia , Zavatta Sara , Toffanin Tommaso , Folesani Federica , Zerbinati Luigi
Published: September 2021

Objective

To examine knowledge about, perception of and current risk factors for cancer, among patients with severe mental illness (SMI) and to compare these variables with patients without SMI.

Methods

A series of patients affected by SMI (i.e., schizophrenia spectrum disorders, bipolar disorders and severe personality disorders) and a matched (gender, age) control group of primary care attenders were assessed, by using an ad hoc semi‐structured interview and a short true/false 17‐item questionnaire, about family history of cancer, cancer risk‐related lifestyles, personal perception and knowledge of risk for cancer.

Results

Patients with SMI (n = 185, mainly schizophrenia spectrum disorders, 48%, and mood disorders, 33%) significantly differed from primary care attenders (n = 173) for: lower participation to occult stool blood screening test, Pap smear test and mammography; higher prevalence of current and past smoking habits; lower awareness towards their own physical symptoms and their perception of risks for cancer; lower physical exercise practicing; lower knowledge about risk factors for cancer (e.g. familiarity for cancer, smoke‐habits, breast and uterine cancer).

Conclusions

Patients suffering from SMI had higher at‐risk behavior for cancer and showed fewer concerns and less knowledge about risk for cancer than primary care attendees. These findings can guide to implement screening for cancer (e.g., Pap test, blood) and to design evidence‐based interventions to reduce cancer risk (e.g., educational and behavioral change for smoking cessation, dietary habits) among patients with SMI.
Colorectal cancer knowledge and perceptions among individuals below the age of 50
Authors: Mueller Nora M. , Hyams Travis , King‐Marshall Evelyn C. , Curbow Barbara A.
Published: September 2021

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) rates are increasing in individuals below the age of 50 and this trend has been projected to continue for the foreseeable future. Health officials are calling for increased awareness of rising rates in affected populations to promote discussion and early detection.

Methods

In May 2018, we surveyed an online purposive sample of adults below the age of 50 (N = 624). We conducted an exploratory analysis examining knowledge of current CRC screening guidelines, knowledge of available CRC screening methods, perceived risk of CRC, and perceived importance of screening for CRC by gender, race, and previous CRC screening activity.

Results

The sample was 56% female, averaged 36 years of age, largely identified as Caucasian (84%), married (48%), and well educated (70% with some college or a college degree). 36% correctly identified the current age of recommended CRC screening initiation. Few (8%) correctly identified all CRC screening options presented. Genetics was thought to be the most relevant determinant of CRC. African American or black participants perceived themselves to be at lower risk of CRC, while women rated the importance of screening significantly lower than men.

Conclusion

We identified a lack of CRC knowledge in individuals below the age of 50. Interventions should correct perceptions of risk of CRC and highlight the importance of screening. Complete knowledge of the range of screening options may reduce barriers to screening while a greater knowledge of modifiable risk factors of CRC can promote healthy behaviors.
Uses and benefits of digital sequence information from plant genetic resources: Lessons learnt from botanical collections
Authors: Cowell Carly , Paton Alan , Borrell James S. , Williams China , Wilkin Paul , Antonelli Alexandre , Baker William J. , Buggs Richard , Fay Michael F. , Gargiulo Roberta , Grace Olwen M. , Kuhnhäuser Benedikt G. , Woudstra Yannick , Kersey Paul J.
Published: September 2021

Societal Impact Statement

Digitized molecular data are vital to numerous aspects of scientific research and genetic resource use. The Convention on Biological Diversity currently refers to this as “Digital Sequence Information” (DSI), a term not widely adopted by science and lacking a clear definition. There are concerns over the access to genetic resources and absence of benefit sharing by provider countries. Open access to DSI might exacerbate this, which is leading to increasing policy interventions and restricted access to genetic resources and DSI. We analyze current international debate and proposed solutions and provide case studies of DSI use producing tangible benefits for the provider countries and scientific research, demonstrating the importance of open access DSI to achieving conservation goals.

Substantial advances in DNA sequencing over the last decades hold great potential to enhance food security and sustainable use of global biodiversity, benefiting the world's poorest people. Digital Sequence Information (DSI) plays a crucial role in catalyzing research applications that can contribute to international societal and biodiversity conservation targets. However, benefit sharing relating to DSI is difficult to identify and hindered by the lack of clear international governance and legislation, which in turn has led to a reluctance to make DSI publicly and freely available. Critically, no precise definition exists under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Nagoya Protocol (NP), or the International Treaty for Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA). The key difference between DSI and biological resources, for which access and use are highly regulated under those frameworks, is that information is nonphysical. Information can be replicated and used without movement of, or access to, physical specimens. Thus, regulating the use of DSI is extremely challenging and remains controversial. Here, we review the regulation of DSI and the possible future steps by the international community, in the context of the benefit‐sharing obligations of the CBD, NP, and ITPGRFA. We highlight how multilateral agreements work in practice and are a solution to this impasse. We provide case studies demonstrating how the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and its collaborators address the uncertainty surrounding the use of DSI, illustrating tangible and equitable benefits that have arisen from such use. We conclude that open access to DSI is needed for scientific research and international policy.
Titration of inspired oxygen in preterm infants with hypoxemic respiratory failure using near‐infrared spectroscopy and pulse oximetry: A new approach
Authors: Elsayed Yasser N. , Dakshinamurti Shyamala
Published: September 2021

Background

Titration of inspired oxygen is a challenge in preterm infants with hypoxemic respiratory failure (HRF). Monitoring of brain oxygen by near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has been proven to minimize the burden of hyperoxia and hypoxemia; with a better understanding of cerebral autoregulation, integrating NIRS and pulse oximetry for titrating inspired oxygen in preterm infants is a novel approach.

Methods

We studied the impact of integrated monitoring of oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry (SpO2) and cerebral regional tissue oxygen (crRTO) by NIRS during a stepwise oxygen reduction test (ORT) on reducing oxygen requirement in preterm infants with HRF. The correlation between SpO2 with crRTO, and fractional oxygen extraction (FOE) was assessed, concordance levels (r > 0.5) were determined during the assessment period and were considered as a sign of impaired autoregulation. The primary outcome was the achievement of significantly lower FiO2 at 72 h after the start of the integrated monitoring.

Results

A total of 38 preterm infants were included, 27 had normal cerebral autoregulation (CAR) (Group 1) in whom SpO2 was poorly correlating with crRTO with (r < 0.5) and had a significantly greater percentage of reduction below baseline in FiO2 (mean: 34%). Eleven infants had impaired CAR (Group 2) with SpO2 significantly correlating with crRTO (r > 0.5) and had a linear trend of FOE inverse to SpO2 and crRTO; this was considered as an arterial saturation dependent oxygen delivery (SadDO2).

Conclusion

Integrated monitoring of preterm infants by SpO2 and crRTO was associated with easier weaning of oxygen with less burden of both hyperoxia and hypoxemia.
Pharmacometric analyses of alectinib to facilitate approval of the optimal dose for the first‐line treatment of anaplastic lymphoma kinase–positive non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Hsu Joy C. , Jaminion Felix , Guerini Elena , Balas Bogdana , Bordogna Walter , Morcos Peter N. , Frey Nicolas
Published: September 2021

Alectinib is an anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor approved for treatment of ALK‐positive non‐small cell lung cancer. Population pharmacokinetic (PK) models were developed for alectinib and its major active metabolite M4 using phase I/II PK data in crizotinib‐failed patients (N = 138). The PK profiles were best described by two separate models with similar structure for both entities: open one‐compartment models with sequential zero/first‐order input and first‐order elimination rate. Body weight with fixed allometric scaling factor on clearance and volume of both entities was the only significant covariate. Bayesian feedback analyses of the PK data collected from Japanese and global treatment‐naïve patients in phase III studies (N = 334) confirmed the body weight effect. Landmark Cox proportional hazards analyses of progression‐free survival in treatment‐naïve patients identified the average molar concentrations of both entities alectinib and M4 during the first 6 weeks of treatment as a significant covariate, with an optimal response achieved for concentrations above 1040 nmol/L. With 600 mg twice daily (b.i.d.), 92% of global patients are above this threshold concentration, compared with only 43% of patients with 300 mg b.i.d. In Japan, where the body weight distribution is lower, the approved 300 mg b.i.d. dose brings about 70% of Japanese patients above this threshold. Logistic regression analyses found no significant relationship between the combined alectinib–M4 molar concentration and first occurrence of adverse events. These pharmacometric results were used to expedite and facilitate regulatory approvals of 600 mg b.i.d. for first‐line ALK‐positive NSCLC in the United States and European Union in 2017 and in China in 2018.
Design of a 3D ray‐tracing model based on digital elevation model for comprehension of large‐ and small‐scale propagation phenomena over the Martian surface
Authors: Bonafini Stefano , Sacchi Claudio
Published: September 2021

The aim of the scientific community, towards the investigation of solutions able to favor a futuristic human settlement on Mars, also concerns ad hoc communication systems and wireless networks to be deployed over the “Red planet.” However, the state‐of‐the‐art appears to be missing of realistic and replicable models for understanding the radio propagation over precise Martian locations. This means that performing solid simulations, rather than roughly approximated ones, is really a tough task. Thus, this paper describes the design of a 3D ray‐tracing simulator based on high‐resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) for the evaluation of Martian large‐scale and small‐scale phenomena in the S and EHF bands. First, by taking advantage of the Cole–Cole equations, we computed the complex permittivity of the JSC Mars‐1 Martian regolith simulant. Then, we developed a 3D tile‐based structure of the Gale crater, thanks to its DEM, and finally, we implemented a ray‐tracing algorithm for outdoor environments able to trace the line of sight (LOS), the first and second reflections of a radio frequency (RF) signal between a transmitter (TX) and a receiver (RX) over the 3D structure. The results focus on estimating path losses, shadowing values, outage probability, and on the parametrization of multipath channels for selected areas and subareas, presenting heavily different morphological features, of the Gale crater. Moreover, some brief considerations about dust storms and atmosphere harmful effects on propagation will be drawn.
Interface‐Dominated Topological Transport in Nanograined Bulk Bi2Te3
Authors: Izadi Sepideh , Han Jeong Woo , Salloum Sarah , Wolff Ulrike , Schnatmann Lauritz , Asaithambi Aswin , Matschy Sebastian , Schlörb Heike , Reith Heiko , Perez Nicolas , Nielsch Kornelius , Schulz Stephan , Mittendorff Martin , Schierning Gabi
Published: September 2021

3D topological insulators (TI) host surface carriers with extremely high mobility. However, their transport properties are typically dominated by bulk carriers that outnumber the surface carriers by orders of magnitude. A strategy is herein presented to overcome the problem of bulk carrier domination by using 3D TI nanoparticles, which are compacted by hot pressing to macroscopic nanograined bulk samples. Bi2Te3 nanoparticles well known for their excellent thermoelectric and 3D TI properties serve as the model system. As key enabler for this approach, a specific synthesis is applied that creates nanoparticles with a low level of impurities and surface contamination. The compacted nanograined bulk contains a high number of interfaces and grain boundaries. Here it is shown that these samples exhibit metallic‐like electrical transport properties and a distinct weak antilocalization. A downward trend in the electrical resistivity at temperatures below 5 K is attributed to an increase in the coherence length by applying the Hikami–Larkin–Nagaoka model. THz time‐domain spectroscopy reveals a dominance of the surface transport at low frequencies with a mobility of above 103 cm2 V−1 s−1 even at room temperature. These findings clearly demonstrate that nanograined bulk Bi2Te3 features surface carrier properties that are of importance for technical applications.
Sustainable Silk‐Derived Multimode Carbon Dots
Authors: Li Shuo , Wang Huimin , Lu Haojie , Liang Xiaoping , Wang Haomin , Zhang Mingchao , Xia Kailun , Yin Zhe , Zhang Yong , Zhang Xingcai , Zhang Yingying
Published: September 2021

Carbon dots (CDs) are widely studied for years due to their unique luminescent properties and potential applications in many fields. However, aggregation‐caused quenching, monotonous emission modes, and unsustainable preparation impose restrictions on their performance and practical applications. Here, this work reports the facile synthesis of sustainable silk‐derived multimode emitting CDs with dispersed‐state fluorescence (DSF), aggregation‐induced fluorescence (AIF), and aggregation‐induced room temperature phosphorescence (AIRTP) through radiating sericin proteins in a household microwave oven (800 W, 2.5 min). The structure, luminescent properties, and the mechanism are investigated and discussed. The sericin‐derived CDs have graphitized cores and heteroatom‐cluster‐rich surfaces. The DSF corresponds to the graphitized cores and the AIF origins from the aggregation‐induced abundant orbital energy levels on the heteroatom‐cluster‐rich surfaces. The presence of abundant hydrogen bonds and small gap between the lowest singlet and triplet excited states induces AIRTP. Finally, based on the unique multimode emission of the prepared CDs, their applications in high‐performance white‐light‐emitting diode, information encryption, anti‐counterfeiting, and visual humidity sensors are demonstrated.
Zero‐Dimensional Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Copper‐Based Halides with Highly Efficient Orange–Red Emission
Authors: Fang Shaofan , Li Henan , Xie Yuelin , Li Huixia , Wang Ye , Shi Yumeng
Published: September 2021

Lead‐free metal halides are promising luminescent materials with low non‐toxicity, tunable emission, and high luminescence quantum yield (PLQY). The development of red light‐emitting materials with high PLQY to meet the color coordinate requirements for light‐emitting diode (LED) lighting and wide color gamut displays remains a major scientific challenge. Herein, novel lead‐free copper‐based halide materials are reported. PEA4Cu4I4 is an efficient orange–red broad emission with a highest PLQY of 73.6%. All three materials, namely, those of ((R)‐(+)‐α‐PEA)4Cu4I4, ((S)‐(–)‐α‐PEA)4Cu4I4, and (β‐PEA)4Cu4I4 with zero‐dimensional structures have large exciton binding energies and Huang–Rhys factors, thus causing efficient self‐trapped exciton emissions. A prototypical orange–red LED device is fabricated successfully that demonstrates the potential of copper‐based halide materials in lighting and display applications.
Antisolvent‐Free Fabrication of Efficient and Stable Sn–Pb Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Lv Shaoshen , Gao Weiyin , Ran Chenxin , Li Deli , Chao Lingfeng , Wang Xiaobo , Song Lin , Lin Zongqiong , Fu Li , Chen Yonghua
Published: September 2021

Pb‐based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have shown great potential in next‐generation photovoltaics. However, the toxicity of Pb remains a big concern. Partial replacement of Pb with Sn is shown to reduce the toxicity of PSCs without considerably compromising the device performance. Currently, Sn–Pb single‐junction PSCs have realized a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 21.7%, whereas all perovskite tandem PSCs with a Pb–Sn device as the bottom cell have achieved a PCE of 25.5%. However, the fabrication process of Sn–Pb PSCs is still not ecofriendly due to the use of hazardous organic solvents and antisolvents. Herein, for the first time, a one‐step antisolvent‐free method is developed to fabricate a high‐quality Sn–Pb perovskite film using methylammonium acetate (MAAc) ionic liquid as a green solvent. The crucial effects of multiple organic halides (MOHs) on the crystallization process and characteristics of the Sn–Pb film are comprehensively investigated. After optimizing the film fabrication parameters, PSCs with a champion PCE of 15.42% can be achieved. Moreover, the device exhibits robust stability that shows negligible PCE loss after being stored in N2 for 720 h. A new avenue to promote the ecofriendly fabrication of efficient Sn–Pb PSCs is opened up.
Variation in Multiphase Flow Characteristics by Nozzle‐Twisted Lance Blowing in Converter Steelmaking Process
Authors: Lv Ming , Li Hang , Xing Xiangdong , Lin Tengchang , Hu Shaoyan , Xie Kun
Published: September 2021

A 3D gas–slag–metal model for a 120t converter with nozzle‐twisted lance is established, and the gas jet characteristics, slag–metal interface fluctuations, wall erosion, and changes in the molten pool flow field of the nozzle‐twisted lance of the blowing process are studied. The results reveal that, with the increase in the swirl angle, the length of the jet high‐velocity section, maximum velocity, and dynamic pressure decrease, radial distance increases, and wall shear stress first decreases and then increases. With an increase in the blowing time, the fluctuating intensity of the slag surface and the molten steel surface changes significantly, fluctuating slag surface stabilizes after 1.7 s (fluctuating intensity is 1.08–1.12), and fluctuating steel surface stabilizes after 1.3 s (fluctuating intensity is 1.23–1.33). The turbulent kinetic energy of the gas–slag–metal three‐phase interaction area increases and the wall shear stress gradually increases.
Microstructure Evolution and Properties of Gradient Nanostructures Subjected to Laser Shock Processing in 300M Ultrahigh‐Strength Steel
Authors: Ma Yun-fei , Xiong Yi , Chen Zheng-ge , Zha Xiao-qin , He Tian-tian , Li Yong , Singh Harishchandra , Kömi Jukka , Huttula Marko , Cao Wei
Published: September 2021

Herein, gradient nanostructures (GNs) are created in 300M ultrahigh‐strength (UHS) steel by laser shock processing (LSP). Microstructure evolution and properties of GNs subjected to LSP with different pulse energies are thoroughly characterized on 3D profiler, scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X‐ray diffractometer (XRD), X‐ray stress analyzer, nanoindenter, and tensile tester. Results show successful creations of GNs in 300M steel after LSP treatments. With the increase in pulse energy, the size of the surface layer is refined from 15 nm (3 J) to 10 nm (7 J), and the corresponding grains are amorphized to some extent. Meanwhile, many substructure defects such as dislocation tangles and deformation twins (DTs) are noted in the subsurface. The dislocation density and the number of DTs increase with the pulse energy. Further, the high compressive residual stress is introduced to the 300M steel surface after LSP, and the corresponding hardness is improved substantially. The compressive residual stress, depth of the affected layer, and the hardness rise significantly with the pulse energy. Apart from improvements in strength and plasticity, the fracture morphology is changed from a typical ductile fracture to quasicleavage and ductile mixed fracture.
Innovative Radwegbrücke bei Nürnberg
Authors: Mansperger Tobias , Burgard Stefan , Hofmann Max
Published: September 2021

Bei Nürnberg entsteht mit dem Bauwerk 396b eine innovative Radwegbrücke über der BAB A 3, die höchsten gestalterischen Ansprüchen genügt und bei der mehrere innovative Technologien Anwendung finden. Die Brücke wurde entsprechend den Vorgaben des Gestaltungshandbuchs der A 3 für den sechsstreifigen Ausbau zwischen Nürnberg und Würzburg als sogenanntes Typ‐2‐Bauwerk entworfen. Dieser Bauwerkstyp wurde bereits beim benachbarten BW 400c erprobt, der mit einer Auszeichnung beim Deutschen Brückenbaupreis 2020 versehen wurde. Das integrale Rahmenbauwerk mit bogenartig aufgelösten Rahmenecken erhält eine Orthoverbundfahrbahnplatte mit Verbunddübelleisten als Verbundmittel. Als nicht metallische Bewehrung der Fahrbahnplatte kommen Basaltfaserstäbe der Firma DBS zum Einsatz.
Effects of palmitic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid on angiogenesis of porcine vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Peng Jie , Yang Menglin , Li Guoli , Zhang Xiu , Huang Yanhua , Tang Yimei
Published: September 2021

Restricted placental angiogenesis is an important cause of intrauterine growth retardation in piglets. During pregnancy, sow obesity can result in an increase in placental lipid deposition, subsequently inhibiting placental angiogenesis and fetal development. However, the effect of different types of fatty acids on placental angiogenesis is still unclear. Trophoblast cells and vascular endothelial cells constitute two important types of placental tissue. In this study, we used palmitic acid (C16:0) and eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5, n‐3), respectively, to treat porcine trophectoderm cells (pTr2) and porcine iliac artery endothelial cells (PIEC) to study the effects of saturated fatty acids and n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on placental angiogenesis in vitro. We found that C16:0 caused significant cytotoxicity in pTr2 and PIEC (p < 0.01) and inhibited the proliferation and migration of PIEC (p < 0.01), whereas C20:5 treatment exhibited very low cytotoxicity and minimal inhibition of cellular proliferation. Meanwhile, a low concentration of C16:0 had no effect on the tube formation in PIEC, whereas C20:5 significantly promoted tube formation of PIEC (p < 0.01). These results suggested that saturated fatty acids and n‐3 PUFAs had different effects on placental angiogenesis. As essential functional fatty acid, n‐3 PUFA might be effective measure in alleviating the placental lipotoxicity caused by sow obesity during pregnancy.
Systemic mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus microsporus in a captive bottlenose dolphin
Authors: Chang Lingling , Qi Yanping , Wang Yamian , Liu Chen‐Hsuan , Chen Songbiao , Miao Bichen , Tong Dewen
Published: September 2021

A 6‐year‐old female bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) kept in dolphinarium died after a 3.5‐month period of lethargy and inappetence despite antibiotics and supportive care. At necropsy, gross findings included diffuse varying‐sized nodules in the lungs and scattered nodules throughout the heart, spleen, mesenteric and hilar lymph node and kidney. Microscopically, the lesions were characterised by disseminated fungal pyogranulomas with numerous intralesional Mucor‐like fungi. The fungi structures were demonstrated by Periodic acid‐Schiff and Gomori methenamine silver stain. Molecular analyses of the fungi were Rhizopus microsporus by PCR sequencing 18S ribosomal RNA gene. Ziehl–Neelsen stain failed to show acid‐fast bacterial infection. Based on pathological and molecular examination, systemic granulomatous mucormycosis was diagnosed. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of systemic mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus microsporus in bottlenose dolphin.