bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Map Matching of Floating Car Data with Artificial Intelligence Techniques
Authors: Ayfantopoulou Georgia , Militsis Marios Nikolaos , Grau Josep Maria Salanova , Basbas Socrates
Published: October 2022

Map matching is a crucial data processing task for transferring measurements from the dynamic sensor location to the relevant road segment. It is especially important when estimating road network speed by using probe vehicles (floating car data) as speed measurement sensors. Most common approaches rely on finding the closet road segment, but road network geometry (e.g., dense areas, two-way streets, and superposition of road segments due to different heights) and inaccuracy in the GNSS location (up to decades of meters in urban areas) can wrongly allocate up to 30% of the measurements. More advanced methods rely on taking the topology of the network into account, significantly improving the accuracy at a higher computational cost, especially when the accuracy of the GNSS location is low. In order to both improve the accuracy of the “closet road segment” methods and reduce the processing time of the topology-based methods, the data can be pre-processed using AI techniques to reduce noise created by the inaccuracy of the GNSS location and improve the overall accuracy of the map-matching task. This paper applies AI to correct GNSS locations and improve the map-matching results, achieving a matching accuracy of 76%. The proposed methodology is demonstrated to the floating car data generated by a fleet of 1200 taxi vehicles in Thessaloniki used to estimate road network speed in real time for information services and for supporting traffic management in the city.
Mating Behavior and Identification of Male-Produced Pheromone Components in Two Woodwasps, Sirex noctilio and Sirex nitobei, in China
Authors: Lu Pengfei , Hao Enhua , Bao Min , Liu Rui , Gao Ciyuan , Qiao Haili
Published: October 2022

To protect vulnerable trees from native and invasive wood wasps, the mating behavior of these two woodwasp species (S. noctilio and S. nitobei, respectively) and factors influencing this behavior were investigated in cages outdoors. Male-produced pheromones were identified in both woodwasp species. Compared with the native species S. nitobei, the invasive species S. noctilio showed stronger mating ability, including mating frequency, time, and duration. The mating behavior of both species mainly occurred from 9:00 to 17:00 each day, peaking at 11:00 and 12:00. The daily mating behavior of both species was most directly related to light intensity. Both female and male S. noctilio and S. nitobei were capable of mating upon emergence, and most individuals mated at 2 days of age. For both species, a female-to-male ratio of 5:15 was most conducive to mating, and individuals with a larger body size were preferred as mates by males and females. (Z)-3-decenol was present in solid-phase microextraction extracts of both species. Two reported minor reference components, (Z)-4-decen-1-ol and (E, E)-2,4-decadienal, were not identified in either woodwasp species. The peak of male pheromone release occurred from 11:00–12:00 for 2-day-old individuals.
The Insecticide Imidacloprid Decreases Nannotrigona Stingless Bee Survival and Food Consumption and Modulates the Expression of Detoxification and Immune-Related Genes
Authors: Al Naggar Yahya , Estrella-Maldonado Humberto , Paxton Robert J. , Solís Teresita , Quezada-Euán J. Javier G.
Published: October 2022

Stingless bees are ecologically and economically important species in the tropics and subtropics, but there has been little research on the characterization of detoxification systems and immune responses within them. This is critical for understanding their responses to, and defenses against, a variety of environmental stresses, including agrochemicals. Therefore, we studied the detoxification and immune responses of a stingless bee, Nanotrigona perilampoides, which is an important stingless bee that is widely distributed throughout Mexico, including urban areas, and has the potential to be used in commercial pollination. We first determined the LC50 of the neonicotinoid insecticide imidacloprid for foragers of N. perilampoides, then chronically exposed bees for 10 days to imidacloprid at two field-realistic concentrations, LC10 (0.45 ng/µL) or LC20 (0.74 ng/µL), which are respectively 2.7 and 1.3-fold lower than the residues of imidacloprid that have been found in honey (6 ng/g) in central Mexico. We found that exposing N. perilampoides stingless bees to imidacloprid at these concentrations markedly reduced bee survival and food consumption, revealing the great sensitivity of this stingless bee to the insecticide in comparison to honey bees. The expression of detoxification (GSTD1) and immune-related genes (abaecin, defensin1, and hymenopteacin) in N. perilampoides also changed over time in response to imidacloprid. Gene expression was always lower in bees after 8 days of exposure to imidacloprid (LC10 or LC20) than it was after 4 days. Our results demonstrate that N. perilampoides stingless bees are extremely sensitive to imidacloprid, even at low concentrations, and provide greater insight into how stingless bees respond to pesticide toxicity. This is the first study of its kind to look at detoxification systems and immune responses in Mexican stingless bees, an ecologically and economically important taxon.
Concomitant Endoscopic Surgery for Bladder Tumors and Prostatic Obstruction: Are We Safely Hitting Two Birds with One Stone? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Savvides Eliophotos , Pyrgidis Nikolaos , Langas Georgios , Symeonidis Evangelos N. , Dimitriadis Georgios , Sountoulides Petros
Published: October 2022

Background: Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) caused by benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) and bladder tumors may co-exist, especially among elderly patients. Transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT) and endoscopic surgery for benign prostatic obstruction in the same setting are avoided by many surgeons due to concerns for tumor cell seeding and recurrences in the prostatic urethra. Aim: The aim of this study was assess the effect of concomitant TURBT and endoscopic BPO surgery on oncological safety and patient quality of life via systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: We searched the PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Scopus, and Clinicaltrials.gov databases and sources of grey literature published before June 2021 for relevant studies. We performed a random-effects meta-analysis of odds ratios (ORs) or weighted mean differences (WMD) to compare concomitant TURBT and BPO surgery versus TURBT alone in terms of recurrence and progression rates. Accordingly, we undertook multiple subgroups and sensitivity analyses (PROSPERO: CRD42020173363). Results: Three randomized and twelve retrospective observational studies with 2421 participants were included. Across studies with good methodological quality, no statistically significant differences were demonstrated regarding overall bladder tumors recurrence rates between concomitant endoscopic BPO surgery and TURBT versus TURBT alone (OR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.60–1.09, I2 = 42%). Similarly, no significant differences were observed in recurrences located at the bladder neck and/or prostatic urethra (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.76–1.47, I2 = 0%), time to first recurrence (WMD: −0.2 months, 95% Cl: −2.2–1.8, I2 = 48%), and progression rate (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 0.67–1.64, I2 = 0%). Subgroup analyses based on tumor grade, number of tumors, and utilization of single-instillation chemotherapy post-TURBT did not detect any significant differences in overall bladder tumor recurrence. The level of evidence was estimated as low for all outcomes. Concomitant surgery improved lower urinary tract symptoms. Conclusion: Concomitant endoscopic BPO surgery and TURBT are oncologically safe and improve LUTS-related quality of life.
The Effectiveness and Tolerability of Glycopyrronium for Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in a Clinical Setting: GLARE-Taiwan
Authors: Huang Wei-Chang , Lin Sheng-Hao , Hang Liang-Wen , Lin Ching-Hsiung , Hsu Jeng-Yuan
Published: October 2022

Glycopyrronium (GLY) is a pharmacological maintenance treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, its effectiveness and tolerability for COPD patients in routine clinical practice have not been well-investigated. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of GLY on health-related quality of life and its safety in patients with COPD in a routine clinical care setting. This multi-center, prospective, six-month observational study recruited patients diagnosed with COPD and treated with GLY at three medical centers in central Taiwan. The full analysis set (n = 102) had a significant improvement in the Clinical COPD Questionnaire total (mean ± SD = −0.39 ± 0.90, p = 0.002), symptoms (mean ± SD = −0.61 ± 0.90, p < 0.001) and mental state scores (mean ± SD = −0.54 ± 1.72, p = 0.021) but not the functional state score (mean ± SD = −0.10 ± 1.15, p = 0.529). During the observational period, 58 patients (52.73%) experienced adverse events; only one adverse event (dizziness) was suspected to be related to the study drug. Three patients (2.73%) discontinued the study and GLY treatment because of an adverse event. One patient (0.91%) died during the study period because of a cerebral infarction, which was judged to be not associated with GLY treatment. In conclusion, GLY could be effective in improving the health status and is safe for patients with COPD in a real-life setting.
Chondral/Desmal Osteogenesis in 3D Spheroids Sensitized by Psychostimulants
Authors: Wagener Nele , Lehmann Wolfgang , Böker Kai O. , Röhner Eric , Di Fazio Pietro
Published: October 2022

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects 6.4 million children in the United States of America. Children and adolescents, the main consumers of ADHD medication, are in the bone growth phase, which extends over a period of up to two decades. Thus, impaired proliferation and maturation of chondrocytes and osteoblasts can result in impaired bone formation. The aim of this study is to investigate, for the first time, the effects of the ADHD-medication modafinil, atomoxetine and guanfacine on bone growth and repair in vitro. Using two-dimensional and three-dimensional cell models, we investigated the chondrogenic/osteogenic differentiation, proliferation and viability of human mesenchymal progenitor cells. Real-time cell proliferation was measured by xCELLigence. Live/dead staining and size measurement of hMSC- and MG63 monolayer and spheroids were performed after administration of therapeutic plasma concentrations of modafinil, atomoxetine and guanfacine. Chondrogenic differentiation was quantified by RTqPCR. The chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation was evaluated by histological cryo-sections. Modafinil, atomoxetine and guanfacine reduced chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation terms of transcript expression and at the histological level. Cell viability of the MG63- and hMSC monolayer was not impeded by ADHD-medication. Our in vitro results indicate that modafinil, atomoxetine and guanfacine may impair chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation in a 3D model reflecting the in vivo physiologic condition.
Diagnosing Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis with Machine Learning: A Proof of Concept
Authors: El Jammal Thomas , Guerber Arthur , Prodel Martin , Fauter Maxime , Sève Pascal , Jamilloux Yvan
Published: October 2022

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is a hyperinflammatory syndrome characterized by uncontrolled activation of immune cells and mediators. Two diagnostic tools are widely used in clinical practice: the HLH-2004 criteria and the Hscore. Despite their good diagnostic performance, these scores were constructed after a selection of variables based on expert consensus. We propose here a machine learning approach to build a classification model for HLH in a cohort of patients selected by glycosylated ferritin dosage in our tertiary center in Lyon, France. On a dataset of 207 adult patients with 26 variables, our model showed good overall diagnostic performances with a sensitivity of 71.4% and high specificity, and positive and negative predictive values which were 100%, 100%, and 96.9%, respectively. Although generalization is difficult on a selected population, this is the first study to date to provide a machine-learning model for HLH detection. Further studies will be required to improve the machine learning model performances with a large number of HLH cases and with appropriate controls.
Cardiac-Gated Neuromodulation Increased Baroreflex Sensitivity and Reduced Pain Sensitivity in Female Fibromyalgia Patients
Authors: Thieme Kati , Jung Kathrin , Mathys Marc G. , Gracely Richard H. , Turk Dennis C.
Published: October 2022

The study presents a novel approach of programing pain inhibition in chronic pain patients based on the hypothesis that pain perception is modulated by dysfunctional dorsal medial nucleus tractus solitarii (dmNTS) reflex arcs that produce diminished baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) resulting from a conditioned response. This study tested whether administration of noxious and non-noxious electrical stimuli synchronized with the cardiac cycle resets BRS, reestablishing pain inhibition. A total of 30 pain-free normotensives controls (NC) and 32 normotensives fibromyalgia (FM) patients received two, ≈8 min-epochs of cardiac-gated, peripheral electrical stimuli. Non-painful and painful electrical stimuli were synchronized to the cardiac cycle as the neuromodulation experimental protocol (EP) with two control conditions (CC1, CC2). BRS, heart-rate-variability (HRV), pain threshold and tolerance, and clinical pain intensity were assessed. Reduced BRS in FM at baseline increased by 41% during two, ≈8 min-epochs of stimulation. Thresholds in FM increased significantly during the experimental protocol (all Ps < 0.001) as did HRV. FM levels of clinical pain significantly decreased by 35.52% during the experimental protocol but not during control stimulations (p < 0.001). Baroreceptor training may reduce FM pain by BRS-mediated effects on intrinsic pain regulatory systems and autonomic responses.
A Systematic Review of Treatments of Post-Concussion Symptoms
Authors: Heslot Camille , Azouvi Philippe , Perdrieau Valérie , Granger Aurélie , Lefèvre-Dognin Clémence , Cogné Mélanie
Published: October 2022

Approximately 10–20% of patients who have sustained a mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) show persistent post-concussion symptoms (PCS). This review aims to summarize the level of evidence concerning interventions for PCS. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review regarding interventions for PCS post-mTBI until August 2021 using the Medline, Cochrane, and Embase databases. Inclusion criteria were the following: (1) intervention focusing on PCS after mTBI, (2) presence of a control group, and (3) adult patients (≥18 y.o). Quality assessment was determined using the Incog recommendation level, and the risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. We first selected 104 full-text articles. Finally, 55 studies were retained, including 35 that obtained the highest level of evidence. The risk of bias was high in 22 out of 55 studies. Cognitive training, psycho-education, cognitive behavioral therapy, and graded return to physical activity demonstrated some effectiveness on persistent PCS. However, there is limited evidence of the beneficial effect of Methylphenidate. Oculomotor rehabilitation, light therapy, and headache management using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation seem effective regarding somatic complaints and sleep disorders. The preventive effect of early (<3 months) interventions remains up for debate. Despite its limitations, the results of the present review should encourage clinicians to propose a tailored treatment to patients according to the type and severity of PCS and could encourage further research with larger groups.
Intraocular Pressure Measurements in Standing, Sitting, and Supine Position: Comparison between Tono-Pen Avia and Icare Pro Tonometers
Authors: De Bernardo Maddalena , Abbinante Giulia , Borrelli Maria , Di Stasi Margherita , Cione Ferdinando , Rosa Nicola
Published: October 2022

Background: Intraocular pressure (IOP) is influenced by body position. The purpose of this study is to compare the IOP measurements obtained with two different devices, to investigate IOP changes in standing, sitting, and supine positions. Methods: In this comparative prospective case series, IOP was measured in sitting, supine, prone, and standing (standing 1) positions and again five minutes after standing (standing 2), utilizing an Icare Pro (ICP) and a Tono-Pen Avia (TPA) in the 64 eyes of 32 healthy subjects. Results: Compared to the sitting position, both devices showed an increase in the IOP both in supine and standing 2 positions (p < 0.05). The mean IOP difference between the two devices was: in the sitting position, 0.57 ± 2.10 mmHg (range: −3.80 to 6.60 mmHg) (p < 0.05), in the supine position, 0.93 ± 2.49 mmHg (range: −4.50 to 7.10 mmHg) (p < 0.05), in the standing 1 position, 0.37 ± 1.96 mmHg (range: −5.20 to 5.00 mmHg) (p = 0.102), and in the standing 2 position 0.73 ± 2.03 mmHg (range: −4.5 to 6.4 mmHg) (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The results highlight an agreement between the TPA and ICP, both confirming not only the increase in IOP in the supine position, but also showing an increase in the standing 2 position. Therefore, it is suggested to perform such measurements in patients with glaucoma, to explain its progression in an apparently normal tension or in compensated patients.
Intraoperative Administration of Adipose Stromal Vascular Fraction Does Not Improve Functional Outcomes in Young Patients with Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Su Wen-Chin , Tuan-Mu Ho-Yi , Lee Hung-Maan , Hung Ting-Yu , Liu Kuan-Lin
Published: October 2022

Adipose stromal vascular fraction (SVF) has a versatile cellular system for biologically augmented therapies. However, there have been no clinical studies investigating the benefits of the augmentation of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) with SVF. We conducted a retrospective study in assessing the effects of intraoperative SVF administration on the functional outcomes in young patients with ACLR. The enrolled patients were divided into the control group (ACLR only) and the SVF group (ACLR with SVF). The functional outcomes in both groups were assessed by the Lysholm knee scoring system, the Tegner activity scale, and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective evaluation form, and compared at several time points during a 12-month follow-up. We found that the sex distribution and pre-surgery scores were similar in the two groups, whereas the mean age of the SVF group was higher than that of the control group (p = 0.046). The between-group analysis and generalized estimating equation model analysis revealed that, while patients in the SVF group significantly improved all their functional outcomes at 12 months after surgery, this improvement was not significantly different from the results of patients in the control group (Lysholm, p = 0.553; Tegner, p = 0.197; IKDC, p = 0.486). No side effects were observed in either group. We concluded that the intraoperative administration of SVF does not improve or accelerate functional recovery after ACLR in young patients.
Postoperative Femoral Nerve Palsy and Meralgia Paresthetica after Gynecologic Oncologic Surgery
Authors: Egger Eva Katharina , Sezer Oezge , Condic Mateja , Recker Florian , Marinova Milka , Hilbert Tobias , Koscielny Arne , Mustea Alexander
Published: October 2022

Femoral nerve palsy and meralgia paresthetica following gynecologic cancer surgery are rare, but severe and long lasting. Here, we aimed to study their incidence, severity, possible risk factors and its time to remission. Between January 2008 and December 2017 976 gynecologic cancer patients were identified in our institutional database receiving surgery. Complete patient charts were reviewed retrospectively. Possible risk factors were analyzed by Fisher’s exact test. 441 (45.18%) out 976 were treated for Ovarian cancer. In total 23 patients were identified with a postoperative neurological leg disorder. A femoral nerve palsy was present in 15 patients (1.5%) and a meralgia paresthetica in 8 patients (0.82%). Three patients showed both disorders. Duration of surgery (p = 0.0000), positioning during surgery (p = 0.0040), femoral artery catheter (p = 0.0051), prior chemotherapy (p = 0.0007), nicotine abuse (p = 0.00456) and prior polyneuropathy (p = 0.0181) showed a significant association with a postoperative femoral nerve palsy. Nicotine abuse (p = 0.0335) and prior chemotherapy (p = 0.0151) were significant for the development of a meralgia paresthetica. Long lasting surgery, patient positioning and femoral arterial catheter placement are risk factors for a postoperative femoral nerve palsy in gynecologic cancer surgery. Polyneuropathy, nicotine abuse, and prior chemotherapy are predisposing risk factors for a femoral nerve palsy and a meralgia paresthetica. A resolution of symptoms is the rule for both disorders within different time schedules.
Incidence, Predictive Factors and Long-Term Clinical Impact of Left Ventricular Remodeling According to the Completeness of Revascularization in Patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction and Multivessel Disease
Authors: Kim Min Chul , Lim Yongwhan , Ahn Youngkeun , Ahn Joon Ho , Lee Seung Hun , Hyun Dae Young , Cho Kyung Hoon , Sim Doo Sun , Hong Young Joon , Kim Ju Han , Jeong Myung Ho
Published: October 2022

In this study, we identified several factors related to left ventricular remodeling (LVR) and examined the impact of LVR on the prognosis of patients with ST-elevated myocardial infarction and multivessel disease treated with complete (CR) or incomplete (IR) revascularization. LVR was defined as an LV end-diastolic diameter >55 mm. A total of 262 patients without LVR at presentation were followed up with echocardiography between 1 month and 1 year. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause death (AD), MI, and heart failure (HF), referred to as a major adverse cardiovascular endpoint (MACE). Then, each variable was analyzed as a secondary outcome. Follow-up echocardiography identified 26 patients (9.9%) with LVR. LVR was associated with an initial LV ejection fraction <50%, Killip 3 disease at presentation, and a peak troponin I level >70 mg/dL. Survival analysis showed an association between LVR and adverse outcomes only in the IR group, in which the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) was increased for the MACE (HR = 3.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.19–8.71, p = 0.002) and HF (HR = 21.37, 95% CI = 4.47–102.09, p< 0.001), but not for the CR group. In STEMI with MVD, LVR within the first year after percutaneous coronary intervention was associated with worse outcomes in the IR but not the CR group.
Epidemiology of Pediatric Meniscectomy: A Nationwide Study in Italy from 2001 to 2016
Authors: Longo Umile Giuseppe , Papalia Rocco , Mazzola Alessandro , Ruzzini Laura , De Salvatore Sergio , Piergentili Ilaria , Costici Pier Francesco , Denaro Vincenzo
Published: October 2022

In the pediatric population, meniscectomy should be exceptional. This study aimed to estimate the incidence and trends of hospitalization of pediatric meniscectomy in Italy. Data were collected from the National Hospital Discharge Reports (SDO) reported at the Italian Ministry of Health. This study referred to the pediatric population (0–14 years of age) from 2001 to 2016. A total of 5188 pediatric meniscectomies were performed. The global incidence was 3.9 for every 100,000 Italian residents under 14 years of age. The most frequent age class was 10–14 years. The men/women ratio was 1.1. The average number of days of hospitalization was 1.8 ± 1.4. Men showed more days of hospitalization than women. The 5–9 age group presented the highest length of hospitalization (2.3 ± 1.5 days). The main primary codified diagnoses were as follows: derangement of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus, other derangement of the lateral meniscus, old bucket handle tear of the medial meniscus, and derangement of the lateral meniscus. Primary codified procedures were the excision of semilunar cartilage of the knee and knee arthroscopy. The burden of pediatric meniscectomy is relevant in Italy. The information required to develop global standards for managing pediatric meniscal lesions may be provided by conducting further epidemiological studies.
Computer-Based Development of Reading Skills to Reduce Dropout in Uncertain Times
Authors: Szili Katalin , Kiss Renáta , Csapó Benő , Molnár Gyöngyvér
Published: October 2022

An adequate level of reading comprehension is a prerequisite for successful learning. Numerous studies have shown that without a solid foundation, there can be severe difficulties in later learning and that failure in the first years of schooling can determine attitudes to learning. In the present study, we present the effect size of an online game-based training program implemented on eDia. The primary goals of the development program are to develop fluency in reading and reading comprehension in Grades 3–4. The content of the program has been developed in accordance with the national core curriculum and the textbooks based on it. Therefore, it can be integrated into both classroom-based lessons and extracurricular activities outside of class. The quasiexperimental research involved 276 students. Propensity score matching was used in examining the effect size of the development program to increase the validity of the results. Through the training program, the development of students in the intervention group accelerated greatly (d = .51), which proved to be even higher in the lowest and average skill groups (d1 = 1.81; d2 = .92) as well as in the disadvantaged student group (d = .72). Latent-change analyses confirmed the sensitivity, relevance, and importance of developing comprehension at 9–10 years of age and the generalizability of the results (χ2 = 421.5; df = 272; p < .05; CFI = .950; TLI = .945; RMSEA = .045 (CI: .036, .153). The study provided evidence that a well-designed online training program is suitable for developing comprehension and overcoming disadvantages, even without the presence of the teacher outside the classroom.
In-Process Chatter Detection in Milling: Comparison of the Robustness of Selected Entropy Methods
Authors: Hauptfleischová Barbora , Novotný Lukáš , Falta Jiří , Machálka Martin , Sulitka Matěj
Published: October 2022

This article deals with the issue of online chatter detection during milling. The aim is to achieve a verification of the reliability and robustness of selected methods for the detection of chatter that can be evaluated on the machine tool in real time by using the accelerometer signal. In the introductory part of the paper, an overview of the current state of the art in the field of chatter detection is summarized. Entropic methods have been selected that evaluate the presence of chatter from the qualitative behavior of the signal rather than from the magnitude of its amplitude, because the latter can be affected by the transmission of vibrations to the accelerometer position. Another criterion for selection was the potential for practical implementation in a real-time evaluation of the accelerometer signal, which is nowadays quite commonly installed on machine tools. The robustness of the methods was tested with respect to tool compliance, which affects both chatter occurrence and vibration transfer to the accelerometer location. Therefore, the study was carried out on a slender milling tool with two different overhangs and on a rigid roughing tool. The reference stability assessment for each measurement was based on samples of the machined surface. The signals obtained from the accelerometer were then post-processed and used to calculate the chatter indicators. In this way, it was possible to compare different methods in terms of their ability to achieve reliable in-process detection of chatter and in terms of the computational complexity of the indicator.
Correction: Liu et al. Advancing Three-Dimensional Coupled Water Quality Model of Marine Ranches: Model Development, Global Sensitivity Analysis, and Optimization Based on Observation System. J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2022, 10, 1028
Authors: Liu Yongzhi , Jiang Fan , Zhao Zihan , Tana  , Lv Xianqing
Published: October 2022

In the original publication [...]
A Variational Bayesian-Based Simultaneous Localization and Mapping Method for Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Navigation
Authors: Mu Pengcheng , Zhang Xin , Qin Ping , He Bo
Published: October 2022

Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) is a well-known solution for mapping and realizing autonomous navigation of an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) in unknown underwater environments. However, the inaccurate time-varying observation noise will cause filtering divergence and reduce the accuracy of localization and feature estimation. In this paper, VB-AUFastSLAM based on the unscented-FastSLAM (UFastSLAM) and the Variational Bayesian (VB) is proposed. The UFastSLAM combines unscented particle filter (UPF) and unscented Kalman filter (UKF) to estimate the AUV poses and features. In addition, to resist the unknown time-varying observation noise, the method of Variational Bayesian learning is introduced into the SLAM framework. Firstly, the VB method is used to estimate the joint posterior probability of the AUV path and observation noise. The Inverse-Gamma distribution is used to model the observation noise and real-time noise parameters estimation is performed to improve the AUV localization accuracy. Secondly, VB is reused to estimate the noise parameters in the feature update stage to enhance the performance of the feature estimation. The proposed algorithms are first validated in an open-source simulation environment. Then, an AUV SLAM system based on the Inertial Navigation System (INS), Doppler Velocity Log (DVL), and single-beam Sonar are also built to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms in the marine environment. The accuracy of the proposed methods can reach 0.742% and 0.776% of the range, respectively, which is much better than 1.825% and 1.397% of the traditional methods.
Combined LOFAR and DEMON Spectrums for Simultaneous Underwater Acoustic Object Counting and F0 Estimation
Authors: Li Liming , Song Sanming , Feng Xisheng
Published: October 2022

In a typical underwater acoustic target detection mission, we have to estimate the target number (N), perform source separation when N>1, and consequently predict the motion parameters such as fundamental frequency (F0) from separated noises for each target. Although deep learning methods have been adopted in each task, their successes strongly depend on the feed-in features. In this paper, we evaluate several time-frequency features and propose a universal feature extraction strategy for object counting and F0 estimation simultaneously, with a convolutional recurrent neural network (CRNN) as the backbone. On one hand, LOFAR and DEMON are feasible for low-speed and high-speed analysis, respectively, and are combined (LOFAR + DEMON) to cope with full-condition estimation. On the other hand, a comb filter (COMB) is designed and applied to the combined spectrum for harmonicity enhancement, which will be further streamed into the CRNN for prediction. Experiments show that (1) in the F0 estimation task, feeding the filtered combined feature (LOFAR + DEMON + COMB) into the CRNN achieves an accuracy of 98% in the lake trial dataset, which is superior to LOFAR + COMB (83%) or DEMON + COMB (94%) alone, demonstrating that feature combination is plausible. (2) In a counting task, the prediction accuracy of the combined feature (LOFAR + DEMON, COMB included or excluded) is comparable to the state-of-the-art on simulation dataset and dominates the rest on the lake trial dataset, indicating that LOFAR + DEMON can be used as a common feature for both tasks. (3) The inclusion of COMB accelerates the convergence speed of the F0 estimation task, however, it penalizes the counting task by a depression of 13% on average, partly due to the merging effects brought in by the broadband filtering of COMB.
New Record of the Grey Cutthroat, Synaphobranchus affinis (Anguilliformes: Synaphobranchidae) from the East Mariana Basin, Western Pacific Ocean
Authors: Han Jeonghoon , Kim Han-Jun , Kim Byung-Jik , Hyeong Kiseong , Noh Choonghwan , Choi Young-Ung
Published: October 2022

Two deep-sea eels collected from the East Mariana Basin in the western Pacific Ocean are described in this study. Based on their morphological features, two eel specimens were assumed to belong to the Gray cutthroat eel family, Synaphobranchidae. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genes have been widely used as genetic markers to identify fish species. To accurately identify the species of the two eel specimens, we sequenced the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) genes from the two eel specimens. The sequences from the specimens were 100% identical. The molecular phylogenetic tree confirmed that the two eel specimens were closely related to Synaphobranchus affinis with a bootstrap value of 100%. This is the first study to report new records of S. affinis from the East Mariana Basin in the western Pacific Ocean.
Copper Induced DNA Damage in the Gills of the Mussel Mytilus trossulus and Reversibility after Depuration
Authors: Slobodskova Valentina Vladimirovna , Chelomin Victor Pavlovich , Kukla Sergey Petrovich , Mazur Andrey Alexandrovich
Published: October 2022

The pollution of coastal water areas by heavy metals is constantly growing; therefore, the study of the mechanisms of impact of these toxicants on the organisms of hydrobionts is a topical direction of toxicology. Particularly pertinent are questions about the state of the reparation system in the aquatic organisms, which make it possible to assess the resistance, survival of hydrobionts, and the probability of remote consequences under the impact of heavy metals. Therefore, in this work, we investigated genome integrity and DNA repair ability in the gill cells of Mytilus trossulus, under conditions of copper (Cu2+) accumulation, and in the process of tissue depuration from this metal. Although the biochemical detoxification system was functioning, it is noted that destructive processes developed, including the accumulation of lipid peroxidation products (MDA) and DNA damage. It was also found that in all of the experimental groups of Mytilus trossulus, in the process of depuration from Cu2+ for 24 h, the levels of DNA damage and MDA content were markedly reduced, and further reduction was less intense.
Beachrock Morphology along the Mediterranean Coast of Israel: Typological Classification of Erosion Features
Authors: Bar Amir , Bookman Revital , Galili Ehud , Zviely Dov
Published: October 2022

Beachrock is composed of intertidal-associated sediments, rapidly cemented by calcium carbonate, and has important implications for understanding coastal morphological processes. This study focuses on the morphodynamic erosion patterns of Late Holocene beachrock outcrops along the Mediterranean coast of Israel that have formed since the sea reached its present level about 4000 years ago. Exposed beachrock is subjected to erosion, affecting its seaward and landward facing fronts and upper surface, and creating distinct morphological features due to wave pounding and coastal currents which remove unconsolidated sediment supporting layers. The current state of beachrock morphology is presented, based on field measurements and field relation interpretations of selected sites, backed by petrographic and sedimentological data. It shows and studies selected beachrock exposures along Israel’s coast, and characterizes their morphological features in various field-relation configurations. A classification is developed of the main erosion patterns of beachrock embedded on loose, hard, partly hard and partly loose substrate.
Use of a Delphi Panel to Determine the Degree of Implementation of Blue Economy in Spanish Ports
Authors: Camarero Orive Alberto , González-Cancelas Nicoletta , Vaca Cabrero Javier , Parra Santiago José Ignacio
Published: October 2022

Environmental concerns have become important in the shipbuilding industry. The concept of the Blue Economy was linked to a new model of economic development based on regeneration, where the production of waste is seen as the possibility of creating a new activity, product, and employment. Nowadays, when we talk about the Blue Economy, it is from a much more transversal perspective, deeply linked to the maritime economic sectors. The aim is to develop these coastal productive sectors from a socially, economically and environmentally sustainable point of view. Due to the great development that the Blue Economy has experienced in recent years, it is considered appropriate to carry out a study of this economic model in the port sector. For this reason, this article analyses the Spanish port system, determining the most important dimensions for measuring the degree of development of the Blue Economy and indicators for each of them. It is concluded that the main emerging sectors in the Blue Economy are biotechnology, research and education, sustainable infrastructures and gastronomy and tradition. The final result of this article is the development of a tool which, by introducing certain data, provides the degree of implementation or development of the Blue Economy both at a general level for the port and at a specific level for each dimension.
COVID-19 Associated with Cryptococcosis: A New Challenge during the Pandemic
Authors: Chan Khee-Siang , Lai Chih-Cheng , Yu Wen-Liang , Chao Chien-Ming
Published: October 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a great threat to global health. In addition to SARS-CoV-2 itself, clinicians should be alert to the possible occurrence of co-infection or secondary infection among patients with COVID-19. The possible co-pathogens include bacteria, viruses, and fungi, but COVID-19-associated cryptococcosis is rarely reported. This review provided updated and comprehensive information about this rare clinical entity of COVID-19-associated cryptococcosis. Through an updated literature search till 23 August 2022, we identified a total of 18 culture-confirmed case reports with detailed information. Half (n = 9) of them were elderly. Fifteen (83.3%) of them had severe COVID-19 and ever received systemic corticosteroid. Disseminated infection with cryptococcemia was the most common type of cryptococcosis, followed by pulmonary and meningitis. Except one case of C. laurentii, all other cases are by C. neoformans. Liposomal amphotericin B and fluconazole were the most commonly used antifungal agents. The overall mortality was 61.1% (11/18) and four of them did not receive antifungal agents before death. Improving the poor outcome requires a physician’s high suspicion, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment.
Natural Populations from the Phytophthora palustris Complex Show a High Diversity and Abundance of ssRNA and dsRNA Viruses
Authors: Botella Leticia , Jung Marília Horta , Rost Michael , Jung Thomas
Published: October 2022

We explored the virome of the “Phytophthora palustris complex”, a group of aquatic specialists geographically limited to Southeast and East Asia, the native origin of many destructive invasive forest Phytophthora spp. Based on high-throughput sequencing (RNAseq) of 112 isolates of “P. palustris” collected from rivers, mangroves, and ponds, and natural forests in subtropical and tropical areas in Indonesia, Taiwan, and Japan, 52 putative viruses were identified, which, to varying degrees, were phylogenetically related to the families Botybirnaviridae, Narnaviridae, Tombusviridae, and Totiviridae, and the order Bunyavirales. The prevalence of all viruses in their hosts was investigated and confirmed by RT-PCR. The rich virus composition, high abundance, and distribution discovered in our study indicate that viruses are naturally infecting taxa from the “P. palustris complex” in their natural niche, and that they are predominant members of the host cellular environment. Certain Indonesian localities are the viruses’ hotspots and particular “P. palustris” isolates show complex multiviral infections. This study defines the first bi-segmented bunya-like virus together with the first tombus-like and botybirna-like viruses in the genus Phytophthora and provides insights into the spread and evolution of RNA viruses in the natural populations of an oomycete species.
Analysis of MicroRNA Regulation and Gene Expression Variability in Single Cell Data
Authors: Liu Wendao , Shomron Noam
Published: October 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression by binding to mRNAs, and thus reduce target gene expression levels and expression variability, also known as ‘noise’. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology has been used to study miRNA and mRNA expression in single cells. To evaluate scRNA-seq as a tool for investigating miRNA regulation, we analyzed datasets with both mRNA and miRNA expression in single-cell format. We found that miRNAs slightly reduce the expression noise of target genes; however, this effect is easily masked by strong technical noise from scRNA-seq. We suggest improvements aimed at reducing technical noise, which can be implemented in experimental design and computational analysis prior to running scRNA-seq. Our study provides useful guidelines for experiments that evaluate the effect of miRNAs on mRNA expression from scRNA-seq.
Satisfaction with Surgical Procedures and Bladder Management of Chronic Spinal Cord Injured Patients with Voiding Dysfunction Who Desire Spontaneous Voiding
Authors: Wu Shu-Yu , Kuo Hann-Chorng
Published: October 2022

We aimed to investigate treatment outcome and satisfaction with bladder outlet surgeries and bladder management in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI), voiding dysfunction, and to seek a spontaneous voiding or reflex voiding program. A total of 261 patients were included in this retrospective study. The mean age at surgical procedure was 49.2 ± 15.9 years; the median follow-up period was 11 (IQR 6, 17) years; 119 received a urethral Botox injection, 41 underwent transurethral incision of the bladder neck (TUI-BN), 77 underwent transurethral incision or resection of the prostate (TUI-P or TUR-P), and 24 had an external sphincterotomy. Satisfactory surgical outcome was reported by 80.5% of patients undergoing TUI-BN, 70.8% undergoing external sphincterotomy, 64.9% receiving TUI-P or TUR-P, and 59.7% receiving the urethral Botox injection. Persistent dysuria was the most common reason for dissatisfaction after the urethral Botox injection (73.1%) and TUI-BN (58.5%). Recurrent urinary tract infection continued in most patients after any type of surgery (all >75%). Most patients with SCI were satisfied with their initial bladder outlet operation in facilitating spontaneous voiding. However, repeat, or multiple surgical interventions were needed in 65.5% of SCI patients to achieve satisfactory voiding. A correct diagnosis is very important before every intervention and bladder management to reach the best satisfaction. VUDS is suggested before surgical procedures to ensure efficacy, even in patients with the same level of SCI.
Combined Assay of rDNA and SatIII Copy Numbers as an Individual Profile of Stress Resistance, Longevity, Fertility and Disease Predisposition
Authors: Porokhovnik Lev N.
Published: October 2022

The ribosomal DNA and pericentromeric satellite repeats are two important types of moderately repeated sequences existing in the human genome. They are functionally involved in the universal stress response. There is accumulating evidence that the copy number variation (CNV) of the repeat units is a novel factor modulating the stress response and, thus, has phenotypic manifestations. The ribosomal repeat copy number plays a role in stress resistance, lifespan, in vitro fertilization chances, disease progression and aging, while the dynamics of the satellite copy number are a sort of indicator of the current stress state. Here, we review some facts showing that a combined assay of rDNA and SatII/III abundance can provide valuable individual data (“stress profile”) indicating not only the inherited adaptive reserve but also the stress duration and acute or chronic character of the stress. Thus, the repeat count could have applications in personalized medicine in the future.
Broad Electrocardiogram Syndromes Spectrum: From Common Emergencies to Particular Electrical Heart Disorders
Authors: Balta Anastasia , Ceasovschih Alexandr , Șorodoc Victorița , Dimitriadis Kyriakos , Güzel Sara , Lionte Cătălina , Stătescu Cristian , Sascău Radu , Mantzouranis Emmanouil , Sakalidis Athanasios , Vlachakis Panayotis , Tsioufis Panagiotis , Kordalis Athanasios , Tsiamis Eleftherios , Tsioufis Konstantinos , Șorodoc Laurențiu
Published: October 2022

Electrocardiogram (ECG) still remains a very useful diagnostic method in modern cardiology. Its broad availability, noninvasiveness and good sensitivity explain why it plays a capital role in the very beginning of the process of diagnosis for every patient, with or without cardiac-related complaints. For the practitioner, good training in ECG interpretation is mandatory. Sometimes, the ECG trace reveals particular aspects that may cause confusion and complicate decision-making. In this article, we present several less common situations underlying the general context and ECG features. The syndromes studied have a high pathological significance and may range from acute emergencies that call for a rapid therapeutical response to chronic syndromes that require prolonged observation, monitoring and risk stratification.
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis for Preoperative Volemia Assessment in Living Donor Hepatectomy
Authors: Suh Suk-Won
Published: October 2022

Donor safety remains an important concern. We introduced preoperative bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) in living donor hepatectomy, as it is a practical method for volemia assessment with the advantages of noninvasiveness, rapid processing, easy handling, and it is relatively inexpensive. We analyzed 51 living donors who underwent right hemihepatectomy between July 2015 and May 2022. The ratio of extracellular water:total body water (ECW/TBW; an index of volemic status) was measured. ECT/TBW < 0.378 was correlated to central venous pressure (CVP) < 5 mm Hg in a previous study and we used this value for personalized preoperative management. In the BIA group (n = 21), donors with ECW/TBW ≥ 0.378 (n = 12) required whole-day nothing by mouth (NPO), whereas those with ECW/TBW < 0.378 (n = 9) required midnight NPO, similar to the control group (n = 30). In comparison with the control group, the BIA group had a significantly lower central venous pressure (p < 0.001) from the start of surgery to the end of surgery, leading to a better surgical field grade (p = 0.045) and decreased operative duration (240.5 ± 45.6 vs. 276.5 ± 54.0 min, p = 0.016). A cleaner surgical field (surgical field grade 1) was significantly associated with decreased operative duration (p = 0.001) and estimated blood loss (p < 0.001). Preoperative BIA was the only significant predictor of a cleaner surgical field (odds ratio, 6.914; 95% confidence interval, 1.6985–28.191, p = 0.007). In conclusion, preoperative volemia assessment using BIA can improve operative outcomes by creating a favorable surgical environment in living donor hepatectomy.