bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Metal Nanoparticles Embedded in Hydrogel Scaffolds for Wound Healing In Vivo
Authors: Sheikh-Oleslami Sara , Tao Brendan , D’Souza Jonathan , Butt Fahad , Suntharalingam Hareshan , Rempel Lucas , Amiri Nafise
Published: July 2023

An evolving field, nanotechnology has made its mark in the fields of nanoscience, nanoparticles, nanomaterials, and nanomedicine. Specifically, metal nanoparticles have garnered attention for their diverse use and applicability to dressings for wound healing due to their antimicrobial properties. Given their convenient integration into wound dressings, there has been increasing focus dedicated to investigating the physical, mechanical, and biological characteristics of these nanoparticles as well as their incorporation into biocomposite materials, such as hydrogel scaffolds for use in lieu of antibiotics as well as to accelerate and ameliorate healing. Though rigorously tested and applied in both medical and non-medical applications, further investigations have not been carried out to bring metal nanoparticle–hydrogel composites into clinical practice. In this review, we provide an up-to-date, comprehensive review of advancements in the field, with emphasis on implications on wound healing in in vivo experiments.
Context and Mutation in Gymnosperm Chloroplast DNA
Authors: Morton Brian R.
Published: July 2023

Mutations and subsequent repair processes are known to be strongly context-dependent in the flowering-plant chloroplast genome. At least six flanking bases, three on each side, can have an influence on the relative rates of different types of mutation at any given site. In this analysis, examine context and substitution at noncoding and fourfold degenerate coding sites in gymnosperm DNA. The sequences are analyzed in sets of three, allowing the inference of the substitution direction and the generation of context-dependent rate matrices. The size of the dataset limits the analysis to the tetranucleotide context of the sites, but the evidence shows that there are significant contextual effects, with patterns that are similar to those observed in angiosperms. These effects most likely represent an influence on the underlying mutation/repair dynamics. The data extend the plastome lineages that feature very complex patterns of mutation, which can have significant effects on the evolutionary dynamics of the chloroplast genome.
An Exploratory Study of Nutrition Knowledge and Challenges Faced by Informal Carers of Community-Dwelling People with Dementia: Online Survey and Thematic Analysis
Authors: Lahiouel Abdeljalil , Kellett Jane , Isbel Stephen , D’Cunha Nathan M.
Published: July 2023

Nutrition knowledge is a primary factor influencing food choices and the ability to identify nutritional risk for carers of people with dementia. Acquiring nutrition knowledge helps carers monitor changes in food intake and micronutrient intake, and whether a healthy and balanced diet is being consumed. This study aimed to assess the nutrition knowledge of carers in the Australian community and their experiences with nutrition education. Using a mixed-methods approach, the nutrition knowledge of informal carers was assessed using the revised General Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire (AUS-R-NKQ), and interviews of informal carers were used to explore the perspectives in a sub-sample. A total of 57 carers (44 females; mean age of 63.0 ± 13.1) completed the survey, and 11 carers participated in follow-up interviews. The total sample scored 22.9 (±4.57) out of 38 on the AUS-R-NKQ, suggesting basic nutrition knowledge. The interviewed carers acknowledged the importance of healthy nutrition but viewed the provision of a healthy diet for a person with dementia as challenging. In both the survey and interviews, carers reported limited use and availability of dementia-specific nutrition resources. Carers were unsatisfied with the advice and number of referrals provided to improve the nutrition of the person with dementia and desired less confusing nutrition education materials adapted to their level of knowledge. The present study highlights the need for informal carers to be supported to acquire adequate nutrition knowledge.
The Impact of Living Arrangements and Social Capital on the Well-Being of the Elderly
Authors: Lee Chun-Chang , Huang Ruo-Yu , Wu Yun-Ling , Yeh Wen-Chih , Chang Hung-Chung
Published: July 2023

This study examines the impact of living arrangements and social capital on the subjective well-being of the elderly, as well as the mutual effects and relationships between the well-being and self-rated health status of the elderly. A total of 369 questionnaires were administered, and the effective recovery rate was 98.10%. The results indicate three key findings: (1) the current location for aging in place, social support, social activities, house ownership, and self-rated health status are indispensable factors affecting the well-being of the elderly. The best location for aging in place was the community, where the elderly’s sense of well-being was highest—the next best options were aging at home and institutional care. (2) Elderly people with sole ownership of their homes were more likely to have higher levels of well-being than those owning jointly or who were tenants. (3) There was significant interaction between subjective well-being and self-rated health status.
Epidemiological Study of Oral Health among Children and Adolescent Schoolchildren in Melilla (Spain)
Authors: Hernandez-Donadeu Marta , Ribas-Pérez David , Rodriguez Menacho Diego , Villalva Hernandez-Franch Paloma , Barbero Navarro Ignacio , Castaño-Séiquer Antonio
Published: July 2023

Dental epidemiological studies are essential for analysing and evaluating the population’s health state and dental treatments provided, as well as for planning future oral health programme activities and interventions based on their findings. In order to determine the health condition of children and adolescents in connection to the prevalence of caries, caries indices (decayed and filled teeth (dft) for primary teeth and decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) in permanent teeth) and periodontal indices (community periodontal index (CPI)), oral exams of children and adolescents aged 6, 12 and 15 from selected schools were conducted. To assess the achievement of the oral health objectives set for Spain in 2020, these data were compared with those acquired at the national level. At 6 years of age, 278 children were examined, the prevalence of caries was 55.6%, the dft index was 2.77 (±3.44), the DMFT was 0.19 (±0.16), the restorative index (RI) was 4.62%, and the significant caries (SiC) index was 8.40 (±2.07). At 12 years of age, 208 students were examined, the prevalence of caries found was 65.86%, the DMFT index was 1.85 (±2.22), the RI was 36.63%, the SiC index was 5.43 (±2.07), and children without the presence of periodontal pathology was 59.13%. At 15 years of age, 165 students were examined, the prevalence of caries was 70.06%, the DMFT was 3.08 (±3.39), the RI was 42.42%, the SiC index was 8.10 (±2.55), and adolescents without periodontal disease was 47.90%. Conclusions: Melilla-born children and adolescents had higher caries indicators and indices than the corresponding national averages for Spain. Teenagers under the age of 15 have a particularly high frequency of dental caries. The investigation of the children’s origin is where there is the most disparity. Children of Berber descent have much higher values than children of European heritage.
Sleep Profiles in Eating Disorders: A Scientometric Study on 50 Years of Clinical Research
Authors: Carollo Alessandro , Zhang Pengyue , Yin Peiying , Jawed Aisha , Dimitriou Dagmara , Esposito Gianluca , Mangar Stephen
Published: July 2023

Sleep and diet are essential for maintaining physical and mental health. These two factors are closely intertwined and affect each other in both timing and quality. Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, are often accompanied by different sleep problems. In modern society, an increasing number of studies are being conducted on the relationship between eating disorders and sleep. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of this field and highlight influential papers as well as the main research domains in this area, a scientometric approach was used to review 727 publications from 1971 to 2023. All documents were retrieved from Scopus through the following string “TITLE-ABS ((“sleep” OR “insomnia”) AND (“anorexia nervosa” OR “bulimia nervosa” OR “binge eating” OR “eating disorder*”) AND NOT “obes*”) AND (LIMIT-TO (LANGUAGE, “English”))”. A document co-citation analysis was applied to map the relationship between relevant articles and their cited references as well as the gaps in the literature. Nine publications on sleep and eating disorders were frequently cited, with an article by Vetrugno and colleagues on nocturnal eating being the most impactful in the network. The results also indicated a total of seven major thematic research clusters. The qualitative inspection of clusters strongly highlights the reciprocal influence of disordered eating and sleeping patterns. Researchers have modelled this reciprocal influence by taking into account the role played by pharmacological (e.g., zolpidem, topiramate), hormonal (e.g., ghrelin), and psychological (e.g., anxiety, depression) factors, pharmacological triggers, and treatments for eating disorders and sleep problems. The use of scientometric perspectives provides valuable insights into the field related to sleep and eating disorders, which can guide future research directions and foster a more comprehensive understanding of this important area.
Association of Socioeconomic Factors and Physical Activity with Health-Related Quality of Life in Italian Middle School Children: An Exploratory Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sanmarchi Francesco , Scheier Lawrence M. , Dallolio Laura , Ricci Matteo , Longo Giulia , Ceciliani Andrea , Masini Alice
Published: July 2023

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) provides a broad assessment of an individual’s well-being and can serve as a good prognosticator of life’s outcomes later for children and adolescents. Understanding the factors associated with HRQoL is crucial for promoting better health and life satisfaction. This study investigated the cross-sectional association of socioeconomic status, cardio fitness, and physical activity levels with HRQoL in 224 Italian early adolescents attending secondary school in the Emilia-Romagna region located in Northern Italy. In a multivariate path regression model, younger students and females reported a higher quality of life (β = −0.139, p = 0.015, 95% CI: −0.254–−0.023 and β = 0.142, p = 0.019, 95% CI: 0.011–0.273, respectively). Having both parents employed and having a higher familiar educational status were also associated with a higher quality of life (β = 0.142, p = 0.013, 95% CI 0.027–0.257 and β = 0.133, p = 0.017, 95% CI 0.022–0.244, respectively). Greater engagement in routine physical activity levels from moderate to vigorous intensity was positively associated with quality of life (β = 0.429, p < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.304–0.554). Endurance (speed) was positively associated with quality of life (β = 0.221, p = 0.001, 95% CI: 0.087–0.355), and students with longer times on the shuttle run reported less quality of life (β = −0.207, p = 0.002, 95% CI: −0.337–−0.077). These relations remained intact even when controlling for socioeconomic factors. The current findings reinforce the importance of promoting regular physical activity among younger children and also addressing socioeconomic status disparities to improve children’s well-being. Future studies may want to consider expanding the array of measures used to assess physical activity and include additional measures assessing nutrition, cultural factors, and family functioning, all of which can influence a child’s willingness to engage in physical activity and their well-being. The emphasis on fitness and physical activity and their contribution to a child’s well-being should be the prime focus for stakeholders who work in the education, public health, and health policy sectors.
Reliability and Accuracy of YouTube Peri-Implantitis Videos as an Educational Source for Patients in Population-Based Prevention Strategies
Authors: Di Spirito Federica , Giordano Francesco , Di Palo Maria Pia , Cannatà Davide , Orio Marco , Coppola Nicoletta , Santoro Rossella
Published: July 2023

Considering the need to improve patient knowledge, awareness, and compliance for peri-implantitis prevention, and patients’ demand for better, quick, and convenient access to medical information, the present study primarily assessed the reliability and accuracy of YouTube videos on peri-implantitis and secondarily evaluated their educational value for the patients, and the related suitability, as part of population-based preventive strategies, to deliver valid information, potentially capable of improving patient knowledge and educational skills. This study’s protocol was developed in advance, and computer history and cookies were cleared to avoid limitations based on preferred user histories. The search term “peri-implantitis” was defined using the Google Trends website, and videos were searched on YouTube on 5 December 2022. Video inclusion and data collection were conducted by independent pre-calibrated investigators. Descriptive statistics were performed on the videos’ characteristics, source, category, target audience, popularity, source reliability, video information and quality (VIQI), content, and educational value. Pearson’s correlation between educational value and all parameters was calculated. Videos with very low/low and medium/good/excellent educational value were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test. A total of 44 videos with medium values for popularity, VIQI, content, and educational value were analyzed. Most videos covered peri-implantitis treatment rather than etiology and prevention, about half were uploaded by dentists/specialists, and only 10% specifically targeted patients. Only 2% of YouTube videos about peri-implantitis had excellent educational value, and 5% had good educational value. Video educational value was correlated with VIQI and content beyond video length and source reliability. When comparing the very low/low and medium/good/excellent educational value YouTube videos on peri-implantitis, a significant difference was found in the Video Information and Quality Index, VIQI, and video content.
Evaluation of Unmanned-Aerial-Vehicle-Integrated Control System Efficiency on the Basis of Generalized Multiplicative Criterion
Authors: Vititin Viktor , Kalyagin Maksim , Kolesnichenko Valentin
Published: July 2023

An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-integrated control system is a set of functionally independent subsystems of the ground and space segments interacting with each other under the conditions of the stochastic nature of the external environment. There is an approach to evaluating its effectiveness based on a generalized multiplicative criterion, which takes into account the features of this system to the maximum extent. It is proposed to single out two particular criteria that characterize the reliability of a UAV and the effectiveness of the control system in relation to it. At the same time, the generalized criterion is a multiplicative convolution based not on the triangular-norm (t-norm) of the particular criterion, but of its correspondence functions, which in a certain way reflect its significance. It is shown that in the particular case of linear dependence of the correspondence functions, the generalized criterion coincides with the classical multiplicative convolution in the form of product of event probabilities. The proposed approach with minimal changes can be adapted to assess the effectiveness of data management systems in heterogeneous networks, process control systems, projects, logistics, etc.
The Impact of Obesity on Perioperative Outcomes for Children Undergoing Appendectomy for Acute Appendicitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zavras Nikolaos , Vaou Natalia , Zouganeli Sofia , Kasti Arezina , Dimitrios Papakonstantinou , Vaos George
Published: July 2023

Today, the prevalence of obesity in the pediatric population has increased dramatically. Acute appendicitis (AA) is the most common surgical condition among pediatric patients. We aimed to investigate the impact of obesity on postoperative outcomes in terms of operative time (OT), length of stay (LOS), surgical site infection (SSI), overall complications, adverse events, and mortality in children undergoing appendectomy for acute appendicitis. An extensive search of the literature in PubMed and Google Scholar was conducted to evaluate the outcomes of normal weight (NW), overweight (OW), and obese (OB) children who underwent appendectomy. Although no statistically significant differences were noted in perioperative outcomes and overall postoperative complications between OW/OB and NW children in the majority of the included studies, prolonged OT and LOS and SSI were found in some studies. Moreover, no differences in terms of readmissions and ED visits were recorded. We conclude that the impact of obesity on postoperative outcomes for children undergoing appendectomy for AA is unclear, and, therefore, no safe conclusions can be drawn with the currently available data. Due to the lack of high-quality studies, further research is required to optimize the surgical approach and prevent unwarranted complications.
The Impact of Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging on Treatment Strategies for Incidental Prostate Cancer after Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate
Authors: Ko Kwang-Jin , Choi Seongik , Song Wan
Published: July 2023

Purpose: To investigate the impact of multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) on treatment strategies for incidental prostate cancer (iPCa) after holmium enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP); Methods: Data from 1781 men who underwent HoLEP for clinical bladder outlet obstruction between September 2009 and March 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. Among patients with confirmed iPCa, those with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels < 10 ng/mL and who underwent mpMRI 3 months after HoLEP were included. Pathologic results, including Gleason grade (GG) and tumor volume, were identified. mpMRI was interpreted using the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System version 2 (PI-RADSv2). Treatment strategies for iPCa according to GG alone, or according to a combination of Gleason grade and mpMRI, were analyzed and compared. Results: Of 1764 men with serum PSA levels < 10 ng/mL, iPCa was confirmed in 64 (3.6%) after HoLEP. Of the 62 men who underwent mpMRI, the median (IQR) age at the time of HoLEP was 72.5 (66.5–78.0) years. The median PSA level and prostate volume were 3.49 (1.82–5.03) ng/mL and 49.6 (38.5–85.4) cm3, respectively. The pathologic results of iPCa were as follows: GG1 = 42 (67.7%), GG2 = 13 (21.0%), GG3 = 2 (3.2%), GG4 = 1 (1.6%), and GG5 = 4 (6.5%). Of the patients with GG1 and GG2, 78.6% (33/42) and 53.8% (7/13), respectively, underwent active surveillance (AS). However, of 42 patients with GG1, 27 (64.3%) had a PI-RADSv2 score of 2, and 24 (88.9%) of them underwent AS. Of the 13 patients with GG2, 4 (80%) with a PI-RADSv2 score of 2 underwent AS. All patients with GG 3–5 were clinically expected to have locally advanced PCa and be treated with radiotherapy and/or ADT. Conclusions: For patients with iPCa of GG 1–2 after HoLEP, mpMRI helps to establish a treatment strategy by allowing risk stratification to select those who should be considered for AS or active treatment.
The 300 versus 300 Study—Low Volume versus High Volume Single Balloon Catheter for Induction of Labor: A Retrospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Socha Maciej W. , Flis Wojciech , Pietrus Miłosz , Wartęga Mateusz , Szambelan Monika
Published: July 2023

The use of a Foley catheter is one of the oldest known methods of labor induction. Therefore, protocols using different volumes of Foley catheter balloons have been developed and tested to accurately determine their effectiveness. In this study, it was decided to retrospectively evaluate two induction of labor (IOL) protocols. The last 300 eligible patients who met the criteria and underwent the low-volume balloon protocol (40–60 mL) IOL were selected. Then next, 300 patients who met the criteria and underwent high-volume balloon (80–100 mL) IOL were selected. Outcomes included time to delivery and parturition type, oxytocin augmentation, operative deliveries and application of intrapartum anesthesia. Overall, the majority of patients delivered within 24 h. Patients who received a high-volume Foley catheter had statistically significantly more vaginal deliveries. The mean-time to delivery in the high-volume catheter group was statistically significantly shorter than in the low-volume catheter group. Patients who received a high-volume Foley catheter required statistically significantly less oxytocin augmentation during induction of labor compared to patients with a low-volume Foley catheter. Regardless of the balloon volume used, the percentage of operative deliveries remained at a similar, low level (8.36% and 2.14%). Regardless of the catheter volume used, the majority of patients chose epidural over intravenous anesthesia. In conclusion, a high-volume balloon Foley catheter IOL is characterized by an increased percentage of vaginal deliveries, shortened time to delivery regardless of the type of delivery, and lower need for oxytocin augmentation.
Comparison of the Ability of Artificial-Intelligence-Based Computer-Aided Detection (CAD) Systems and Endoscopists to Detect Colorectal Neoplastic Lesions on Endoscopy Video
Authors: Misumi Yoshitsugu , Nonaka Kouichi , Takeuchi Miharu , Kamitani Yu , Uechi Yasuhiro , Watanabe Mai , Kishino Maiko , Omori Teppei , Yonezawa Maria , Isomoto Hajime , Tokushige Katsutoshi
Published: July 2023

Artificial-intelligence-based computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) systems have developed remarkably in recent years. These systems can help increase the adenoma detection rate (ADR), an important quality indicator in colonoscopies. While there have been many still-image-based studies on the usefulness of CAD, few have reported on its usefulness using actual clinical videos. However, no studies have compared the CAD group and control groups using the exact same case videos. This study aimed to determine whether CAD or endoscopists were superior in identifying colorectal neoplastic lesions in videos. In this study, we examined 34 lesions from 21 cases. CAD performed better than four of the six endoscopists (three experts and three beginners), including all the beginners. The time to lesion detection with beginners and experts was 2.147 ± 1.118 s and 1.394 ± 0.805 s, respectively, with significant differences between beginners and experts (p < 0.001) and between beginners and CAD (both p < 0.001). The time to lesion detection was significantly shorter for experts and CAD than for beginners. No significant difference was found between experts and CAD (p = 1.000). CAD could be useful as a diagnostic support tool for beginners to bridge the experience gap with experts.
Long-Term Survival among Octogenarians Undergoing Aortic Valve Replacement with or without Simultaneous Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: A 22-Year Tertiary Single-Center Experience
Authors: Masraf Hannah , Sef Davorin , Chin Sirr Ling , Hunduma Gabriel , Trkulja Vladimir , Miskolczi Szabolcs , Velissaris Theodore , Luthra Suvitesh
Published: July 2023

Background: The impact of concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) on aortic valve replacement (AVR) in octogenarians is still debated. We analyzed the characteristics and long-term survival of octogenarians undergoing isolated AVR and AVR + CABG. Methods: All octogenarians who consecutively underwent AVR with or without concomitant CABG at our tertiary cardiac center between 2000 and 2022 were included. Patients with redo, emergent, or any other concomitant procedures were excluded. The primary endpoints were 30-day and long-term survival. The secondary endpoints were early postoperative outcomes and determinants of long-term survival. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of 30-day mortality, and Cox regression analysis was performed for predictors of adverse long-term survival. Results: A total of 1011 patients who underwent AVR (83.0 [81.0–85.0] years, 42.0% males) and 1055 with AVR + CABG (83.0 [81.2–85.4] years, 66.1% males) were included in our study. Survival at 30 days and at 1, 3, and 5 years in the AVR group was 97.9%, 91.5%, 80.5%, and 66.2%, respectively, while in the AVR + CABG group it was 96.2%, 89.6%, 77.7%, and 64.7%, respectively. There was no significant difference in median postoperative survival between the AVR and AVR + CABG groups (7.1 years [IQR: 6.7–7.5] vs. 6.6 years [IQR: 6.3–7.2], respectively, p = 0.21). Significant predictors of adverse long-term survival in the AVR group included age (hazard ratio (HR): 1.09; 95% CI: 1.06–1.12, p < 0.001), previous MI (HR: 2.08; 95% CI: 1.32–3.28, p = 0.002), and chronic kidney disease (HR 2.07; 95% CI: 1.33–3.23, p = 0.001), while in the AVR + CABG group they included age (HR: 1.06; 95% CI: 1.04–1.10, p < 0.001) and diabetes mellitus (HR: 1.48; 95% CI: 1.15–1.89, p = 0.002). Concomitant CABG was not an independent risk factor for adverse long-term survival (HR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.77–1.02, p = 0.09). Conclusions: The long-term survival of octogenarians who underwent AVR or AVR + CABG was similar and was not affected by adding concomitant CABG. However, octogenarians who underwent concomitant CABG with AVR had significantly higher in-hospital mortality. Each decision should be discussed within the heart team.
Clinical Features, Biochemical Parameters, and Treatment Adherence of Individuals Who Started the Treatment for Active Pulmonary Tuberculosis during the Pandemic Period
Authors: Sales Amanda Caroline de Souza , Lopes Larissa Araújo , Vale Maria Caroliny dos Santos , Costa Mayara Ferreira , Lima João Victor de Souza , Silva João Gabriel Matos da , Ferreira Bruna Sthefanny da Cunha , Nascimento Victoria Alves do , Flor Saara Emanuele da Silva , Sousa Elane Luiza Costa de , Paz Bruna Katarine Bezerra , Garcia Ricardo Amorim de Sousa , Sousa Eduardo Martins de , Santos Alexsandro Ferreira dos , Silva Luís Cláudio Nascimento da , Zagmignan Adrielle
Published: July 2023

This descriptive prospective study investigated the clinical features and treatment adherence of individuals who started the treatment for Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) during the COVID-19 pandemic in São Luís. Thirty-six TB patients and thirty-five age/sex-matched individuals were recruited between January 2021 and January 2022. The clinical features, sociodemographic information, and serum were obtained at the diagnosis time. Adherence to treatment and adverse reactions were investigated monthly. The most common symptoms in TB patients were cough (91.6%) and fever (83.3%). All TB patients had elevated pre-therapy levels of CRP and reduced HDL: 88.9% presented hypocalcemia and 47.2% showed elevated ALP and GGT. TB patients showed higher levels of ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, CRP, amylase, and triglycerides than the comparison group (p < 0.05), while the calcium levels were reduced (p < 0.0001). TB patients with anti-SARS-CoV-2-IgG antibodies (seroprevalence of 66.7%) presented higher values of amylase and lower CRP levels (p < 0.05). Most patients (~70%) reported at least one adverse drug reaction, mainly pruritus and nausea. The treatment abandonment rate was 19.2%. In conclusion, TB patients showed elevated pre-therapy levels of CRP, low levels of HDL, and hypocalcemia. Liver and pancreatic functions were also compromised in several patients before the therapy. The treatment non-adherence rate observed was similar to other studies performed before the pandemic period.
Investigating Adiposity-Related Metabolic Health Phenotypes in Patients with Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mintoff Dillon , Agius Rachel , Fava Stephen , Pace Nikolai P.
Published: July 2023

Background: Obesity and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) are related through meta-inflammation and are both associated with increased cardiometabolic risk. Notwithstanding, cardiometabolic pathology is not uniform in obesity and a subset of individuals with excess adiposity exhibit a healthy metabolic profile. Whilst the incidence of cardiometabolic endpoints and transitions across different adiposity-related body composition phenotypes within several populations and across different ethnicities have been investigated, data regarding metabolic health (MetH) and body composition phenotypes in individuals with HS are lacking. The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between different body composition phenotypes in individuals with HS. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 632 individuals with and without HS from a population with a high prevalence of both obesity and HS. A total of four body composition phenotypes were generated based on BMI and metabolic status (defined using either the metabolic syndrome definition or the homeostasis model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)): metabolically healthy overweight/obese (MHOWOB), metabolically unhealthy overweight/obese (MUOWOB), metabolically healthy normal weight (MHNW), and metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUNW). Results: Generally, subjects with HS exhibited a worse metabolic profile with higher levels of indices of central adiposity measures (including Visceral Adiposity Index and waist circumference), systolic blood pressure and markers of insulin resistance, as well as a higher prevalence of the metabolic syndrome. Moreover, when sub-stratified into the different body composition phenotypes, individuals with HS typically also demonstrated adverse metabolic characteristics relative to controls matched for both adiposity and metabolic health, particularly in the normal weight category and despite being classified as metabolically healthy. Being metabolically unhealthy in addition to being overweight/obese increases an individual’s risk of HS. Conclusions: Metabolic risk-assessment should be prioritized in the clinical management of individuals with HS even in those who are lean. Patients attending HS clinics provide a valuable opportunity for targeted cardiovascular risk reduction with respect to the management of both obesity and metabolic health.
A Systematic Review of Telemedicine-Driven Pulmonary Rehabilitation after the Acute Phase of COVID-19
Authors: Pescaru Camelia Corina , Crisan Alexandru Florian , Marc Monica , Trusculescu Ana Adriana , Maritescu Adelina , Pescaru Andrei , Sumenkova Anastasiia , Bratosin Felix , Oancea Cristian , Vastag Emanuela
Published: July 2023

The acute phase of COVID-19 often leaves patients with persistent pulmonary deficits. Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) has been recommended as an essential part of post-acute COVID-19 management. In light of the global pandemic, telerehabilitation has been increasingly employed to deliver PR. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of telemedicine-driven PR in patients recovering from the acute phase of COVID-19, assessing variations in telerehabilitation practices and identifying the degree of change in mental health, physical health, quality of life, and lung function. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus up until April 2023. Studies focusing on telerehabilitation in PR for post-acute COVID-19 patients with outcomes including pulmonary function, exercise capacity, and quality of life were included after careful assessment of this study’s protocol. The selection process involved careful scrutiny of abstracts and full texts, and the quality assessment was performed using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) tool. Seven studies, published between 2021 and 2022, involving a total of 412 patients, were included. The evaluated telerehabilitation programs stretched between 4 and 10 weeks, involving a mobile app or video connection with the patient, integrating a mix of aerobic and resistance training, breathing exercises, functional activities, and muscle strengthening. Findings revealed that telemedicine-driven PR significantly improved physical health, measured by the step test score (73 vs. 71), 6MWD (30.2 vs. 17.1) and BPAQ, mental health evaluated by SF-12 (6.15 vs. 4.17) and PHQ-4, quality of life measured by the SF-12 (7.81 vs. 3.84), SGRQ (31.5 vs. 16.9), and CAT scores, and some parameters of pulmonary function in post-acute COVID-19 patients (mMRC, STST, and MVV). This review substantiates the potential of telemedicine-driven PR to improve various health outcomes in post-acute COVID-19 patients. The findings underscore the importance of integrating telerehabilitation into the management of post-acute COVID-19 and call for further exploration of its long-term effects, cost-effectiveness, and best practices.
Beach Conditions for Guiding the Sandy Beach Management in Phuket, Thailand
Authors: Ritphring Sompratana , Nidhinarangkoon Pattrakorn , Udo Keiko
Published: July 2023

Thailand’s current beach management strategies lack integration across sectors, resulting in conflicts of interest and insufficient consideration of diverse beach uses. The complexity of environmental, socio-economic, and coastal disasters challenge policymakers to describe the conditions of sandy beaches, and the most effective coastal management adaptation measures. This study suggests an integrated approach to evaluate beach conditions by incorporating the Urbanization Index, Conservation Index, and Recreation Index. Furthermore, the assessment of beach conditions will include the Threat Index, which consists of erosion rates and shoreline recession caused by sea level rise. The trends index will prioritize beach conditions for appropriate management actions. The study suggests management strategies that aim to preserve the physical and environmental aspects of the beach, while restoring its functionality for ecosystem services by applying engineering structures with beach nourishment. The main purpose of this study is to develop a beach condition that can be used as a guideline for sandy beach management in Thailand. It provides insights and recommendations to policymakers for enhancing the sustainability and resilience of Thailand’s coastal areas in the face of urbanization and climate change.
Evaluation of Parametric Roll Mode Applying the IMO Second Generation Intact Stability Criteria for 13K Chemical Tanker
Authors: Shin Dongmin , Sung Yonmo , Jeong Hyomin , Kim Daehyeon , Moon Byungyoung
Published: July 2023

In this paper, the evaluation procedure for Level 1, Level 2A, and Level 2B for the parametric roll among the five modes of the IMO second generation stability criteria was explained in detail. Parametric roll mode evaluation was performed using the design data of a medium-sized 13K chemical tanker instead of a well-known container ship. As a result of the Level 1 evaluation, δGM1/GM was smaller than the standard value, thus satisfying the first criterion, but the second criterion value was smaller than 1, so it was found that the Level 1 criterion was not satisfied. Subsequently, in the Level 2A evaluation, the weighted sum value was larger than the standard value under the ship speed and given wave conditions, so it was also not satisfied. In particular, the process of numerical analysis in the time domain was described through the equation of motion when estimating the maximum roll angle of a ship in the Level 2B evaluation, which was not detailed in previous studies. The calculation result was larger than the standard value, so it was not satisfied, and consequently, the 13K chemical tanker did not satisfy Level 1, Level 2A, and 2B.
The Clay Mineralogy and Geochemistry of Sediments in the Beibu Gulf, South China Sea: A Record of the Holocene Sedimentary Environmental Change
Authors: Guan Yao , Chen Yuxi , Sun Xiaoming , Xu Li , Xu Dong , Zhu Zuhao , He Wentao
Published: July 2023

In this study, we analyzed the clay mineralogy and geochemistry of surface and drill core samples from the northeastern Beibu Gulf in order to unravel the sediment provenance of, and factors controlling, the sedimentary environment. The main clay mineral assemblage in the surface sediment samples included kaolinite (27–72%), smectite (4–51%), illite (7–20%), and chlorite (8–17%). The study area comprises three major clay distribution zones (from the northeastern coastal area to central Beibu Gulf basin), i.e., the kaolinite-dominated, kaolinite–smectite, and smectite-dominated zones. The zoning of the clay mineralogy and major and trace elements indicated the mixing of coarse terrigenous sediments with distal fine sediments. Early Holocene sea level rise was documented in core B15-1, which had three sedimentary units (divided into Units 1–3 from top to bottom), as revealed by the changes in the dominant clay minerals and geochemical/oxide ratios (SiO2/Al2O3, Rb/Sr, Sr/Ba, and Ti/Ca) in Unit 2. Unit 1 and Unit 3 were likely deposited in the continental and marine environments, respectively. The low sedimentation rate and hydrodynamic disturbance may have influenced the deposition process more than climatic fluctuations.
Influence of Excavation Pits on the Wave Hydrodynamics of Fringing Reefs under Regular Waves
Authors: Wang Xu , Qu Ke , Men Jia , Zhang Liangbin , Li Junjie , Gao Rongze
Published: July 2023

Dredging materials from reef flats have become an important source of sand and aggregates for meeting the infrastructure needs of coral-lined shores in subtropical and tropical regions, especially for low-lying atoll islands. Dredging at the reef flats can generate artificial excavation pits, which not only have profound influences on coral ecological stability but also deeply affect the hydrodynamic characteristics of coral reefs. To deepen the understanding of the influence of excavation on the wave hydrodynamics of fringing reefs, the wave propagation, wave transformation, wave setup, and wave runup processes of regular waves on fringing reefs with artificial pits have been systematically analyzed using a non-hydrostatic numerical wave solver (NHWAVE). The effects of some significant factors have been carefully investigated. According to the study findings, the existence of artificial pits can result in a slight decrease in the wave height around the artificial pit. The time-mean maximum of wave runup height at the backreef slope can be reduced to some extent when the artificial pit is present. When placed close to the reef edge, the artificial pit can have noticeable effects on the hydrodynamic characteristics of fringing reefs, particularly the wave setup along the reef flat. It is hoped that the study findings can provide further reference for evaluation of the influences of artificial pits on the wave hydrodynamics of fringing reefs.
An Integrated Resilient Sediment Transport RIsk Management (IRSTRIM) Approach for Estuaries
Authors: Zakipour Mina , Yazdandoost Farhad , Alizad Karim , Izadi Ardalan , Farhangmehr Aref
Published: July 2023

Estuaries around the world are facing numerous threats, including urbanization, industrialization, resource scarcity, and the impacts of climate change. To increase estuarine resilience, it is crucial to manage these ecosystems to maintain their functionality. Sediment transport resilience is a critical factor that affects the performance objectives of navigation, storm damage reduction, and ecosystem restoration. This paper focuses on an integrated resilient sediment transport risk management (IRSTRIM) approach for estuaries. The framework quantifies resilience indexes such as reaction amplitude, graduality, and recovery rates of “sediment transport” to “river and sea interaction” in the Arvand Estuary, the Persian Gulf. Additionally, three indexes, the tidal asymmetry index (TAI), saltwater intrusion vulnerability index, and infill rate, are developed to aid in resilient sediment management. The quantified indexes successfully incorporated tidal asymmetry, sediment characteristics, bed properties, and flow hydrodynamics. Different resilience and resistance management scenarios are evaluated using a decision support system. Based on the results, tidal barrier application, as a resilience scenario, is the best scenario, and the dredging scenario, as a resistance one, is the worst scenario. The reaction amplitude with a weight of 0.39, and the TAI with a weight of 0.27 are determined as the most effective indexes.
Interplay of Urbanization and Ecological Environment: Coordinated Development and Drivers
Authors: Chen Ruixu , Chen Yang , Lyulyov Oleksii , Pimonenko Tetyana
Published: July 2023

The interplay between urbanization and ecological environmental efficiency has gained increasing significance in the context of sustainable development, as rapid urban growth poses challenges to resource consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and the overall ecological well-being of urban areas. Understanding and analyzing the coordinated development of urbanization and ecological environmental efficiency, as well as assessing the influence of drivers on this relationship, is crucial for developing effective policies and strategies that promote environmentally sustainable urban development. This study establishes an urbanization index based on four key aspects: economy, society, population, and ecology. This investigation focuses on 30 provinces in China spanning from 2011 to 2020. The following methods are applied: global Malmquist–Luenberger productivity index, entropy method, TOPSIS model, coupled coordination degree model, panel-corrected standard error (PCSE), and feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) models. The empirical results demonstrate a favorable level of coordinated development between urbanization and the ecological environment overall, with more pronounced regional evolution trends. The trade openness, energy structure, and digitalization level play significant roles in effectively promoting the coordinated development of urbanization and the ecological environment to varying extents. The growth of trade openness and digitalization level promote coordinated development between urbanization and the ecological environment by 0.125 and 0.049, respectively. However, the increase in the energy structure decreases it by 0.509. These results have significant implications for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes ecological environmental protection in urbanization efforts. This study underscores the importance of sustainable urban development strategies to ensure long-term ecological and environmental sustainability.
Differences in High-Quality Development and Its Influencing Factors between Yellow River Basin and Yangtze River Economic Belt
Authors: Wang Yiwei , Yang Ningze
Published: July 2023

As a national strategy, the development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) and the ecological protection and high-quality development (HQD) of the Yellow River Basin (YRB) are of great significance for promoting the HQD of the regional economy. Based on the panel data in the YRB and the YREB from 2006 to 2019, this paper constructed an evaluation index system of HQD with five dimensions of “innovation development, coordination development, green development, openness development, and sharing development”, and we used the entropy weight method, kernel density method, and Tobit panel model to analyze the differences in the HQD and the similarities and differences of the influencing factors between the two regions. The research findings were as follows: (1) The HQD of the YRB and the YREB was consistent with the national trend, showing a fluctuating upward trend. The HQD of the YRB was always lower than that of the YREB. The kernel density curves in both regions had a rightward trailing pattern, with polarization and unbalanced development. (2) From the perspective of the spatial distribution pattern, the HQD of the YRB presented a spatial distribution characteristic of “high at both ends and low in the middle”. In contrast, the HQD of the YREB maintained the characteristic of “high in the east and low in the west”. (3) The level of human capital, the level of foreign direct investment, and the economic scale played a significant positive role in improving the HQD of the YRB. The level of human capital, urbanization, foreign direct investment, and economic scale significantly improved the HQD of the YREB.
Building a Cadastral Map of Europe through the INSPIRE and Other Related Initiatives
Authors: Cetl Vlado , Šamanović Sanja , Bjelotomić Oršulić Olga , Lisec Anka
Published: July 2023

Digital cadastral maps with accompanying land-related attributes have become a fundamental dataset for many application fields, e.g., spatial planning and development, protecting state lands, securing of land tenure, facilitating land reforms, agriculture, forestry, land management, taxation, etc. In order to fulfil its main objectives, cadastral data needs to be available and accessible, which is, among the others, emphasized also within the United Nations Framework for Effective Land Administration (FELA). This is not only important on the national level but also beyond, including at the European level where use cases and consequently demand for pan-European data sets have evolved in recent years. In order to satisfy these needs, several initiatives regarding cadastral and other geospatial data have been launched in the last 20 years. It started with the Permanent Committee on Cadastre in the European Union, the European Land Information Service, INSPIRE, UN-GGIM Europe and recent European policies on open data and high-value datasets. Our main question is, did those initiatives result in the possibility of building a cadastral map of Europe or not? Is it possible to create a cadastral map of Europe on the desktop or an open online GIS application? Within the paper, we take the opportunity to reflect on the development and implementation of European spatial data infrastructure (INSPIRE) with the main focus on the availability and accessibility of cadastral data. We also take into consideration other European initiatives related to cadastral data. The overall findings show that there is still work to be carried out. Technological developments and recent policy initiatives will certainly be drivers for future improvement.
Freedom of Expression and Hate Speech: Human Rights Standards and Their Application in Poland and Slovenia
Authors: Kapelańska-Pręgowska Julia , Pucelj Maja
Published: July 2023

Even though hate speech is an extreme form of intolerance, which contributes to hate crime, the assessment of this particular behavior and its expressions is often problematic, because hate speech is difficult to define and even more difficult to investigate and punish. In the present article, the authors analyze the development of human rights standards (in particular as interpreted in the case-law of the European Court of Human Rights) regarding freedom of expression and hate speech and look at their application in Poland and Slovenia through a comparative analysis of Polish and Slovenian law and practice. We noticed that challenges with fulfilling international obligations to adequately respond to and fight hate speech can be observed and that some room for improvement on the level of lawmaking, policymaking, and their effective implementation is present. The most evident challenge remains in the low rates of prosecution of hate crimes recorded by the police, which need to be addressed by both States. In Slovenia, some positive systemic and regulatory changes have recently been introduced, while in Poland there has been little progress and not all victims of hate speech are adequately protected by law. The authors suggest a focus on educating individuals about the harmful consequences of hate speech and acts, adapting legislation to appropriately punish individuals who spread hate speech, raising awareness and understanding of the rhetoric used in the public sphere, and increasing media support for the aforementioned awareness, keeping in mind that solutions on how to appropriately address or prevent hate speech are by no means simple or straightforward.