bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Retrospective Cohort Study of Lung Cancer Incidences and Epidemiological Analysis in Saudi Arabian Population from 2006–2016
Authors: Almatroudi Ahmad
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, including in Saudi Arabia. In the past few decades, the incidence and mortality has increased considerably among the Saudi population. The incidence of lung cancer has increased more than 3% in less than two decades. The current study focuses on analyzing the frequency of diagnosed lung cancer cases, age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), and crude incidence rate (CIR) classified by year of diagnosis, age group, and different administrative regions of Saudi Arabia, based on the Saudi cancer registry (SCR) for the period of 10 years from 2006–2016. Methodology: The present study is a cohort study that focuses on the epidemiological analysis of lung cancer cases. The statistical analysis was performed by t-test, sex ratio, Kruskal–Wallis, and descriptive statistics through SPSS version 20.0. Results: A total of 4530 lung cancer cases were reported from January 2006 to December 2016. Among males, the ASIR range was reported as 1.2 to 12.3 per 100,000 cases in different regions of Saudi Arabia. Moreover, among females, the ASIR range was reported from 0.2 to 3.1 per 100,000 cases in different regions of Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the overall age-standardized incidence sex ratio was 3.2 per 100,000 cases. The incidence of lung cancer increased with age as 23% was reported in the age group of more than 75 years. Conclusions: The study concludes a rise in crude incidence rates and ASIR for lung cancer among Saudi population. Among males, the Eastern region had the highest overall ASIR followed by Tabuk region, and, among females, the highest overall ASIR was reported in the Eastern region followed by Riyadh and the Northern region.
A Qualitative Study on Young Women’s Lives Prior to and Four Years after Youth Detention: Examining the Good Lives Model’s Aetiological Assumptions
Authors: Van Damme Lore , Fortune Clare-Ann , Vandevelde Stijn , Vanderplasschen Wouter , Colins Olivier F.
Published: November 2021

Detained female adolescents constitute a vulnerable, challenging, and understudied minority. Interventions for DFA are still dominated by risk management approaches with less focus on strength-based approaches such as the Good Lives Model (GLM). This study explored the functionality of DFA’s behaviour prior to and four years after release from detention, using the GLM as the guiding theoretical framework. A theory-driven thematic analysis was conducted of 30 in-depth interviews with former DFA (Mage = 20.80), exploring the fulfilment of their basic human needs (e.g., relatedness, independence) before and after detention. Before detention, the young women experienced multiple problems trying to fulfil multiple human needs, often contributing to poor balance in their lives and their antisocial behaviour. Although external and internal obstacles to fulfilling human needs were still present at follow-up, important improvements were noted, e.g., in the scope of their human needs and the resources available to fulfil their needs. The findings provide additional insights into the issues experienced by young women in detention and indicate there are opportunities to assist these young women, through the development of appropriate resources and capacities which provide them with appropriate means for fulfilling their needs and moving towards a personally meaningful and prosocial life.
Psychological Distress in Healthcare Workers between the First and Second COVID-19 Waves: The Role of Personality Traits, Attachment Style, and Metacognitive Functioning as Protective and Vulnerability Factors
Authors: Cena Loredana , Rota Matteo , Calza Stefano , Janos Jessica , Trainini Alice , Stefana Alberto
Published: November 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health of healthcare workers (HCWs) since its outbreak, but little attention has been paid to person-level vulnerability and protective factors. This study aims to determine the prevalence of both general and pandemic-related psychological distress among HCWs between the first and second COVID-19 waves in Italy and analyze associations between psychological distress and personality traits, attachment style, and metacognitive functioning. Between June and October 2020, 235 Italian HCWs completed questionnaires concerning psychological stress, personality traits, attachment style, and metacognitive functioning; 26.5% of respondents presented with moderate to extremely severe levels of general psychological distress and 13.8% with moderate to extremely severe levels of pandemic-related psychological distress. After controlling for demographic and occupational variables, significant associations emerged among high emotional stability as a personality trait and both general (aOR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.41–0.79) and pandemic-related psychological stress (aOR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.41–0.90). Additionally, higher scores regarding one’s ability to understand others’ emotional states were associated with lower odds of developing psychological distress (aOR: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.63–0.93). Lastly, when comparing those with fearful attachment styles to those with secure attachments, the aOR for psychological distress was 4.73 (95% CI: 1.45–17.04). These results highlight the importance of conducting baseline assessments of HCWs’ person-level factors and providing regular screenings of psychological distress.
A Cross-Provider Healthcare Management Program for Musculoskeletal Disorders: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial in 22 German Companies
Authors: Choi Kyung-Eun (Anna) , Lindert Lara , Schlomann Lara , Samel Christina , Hellmich Martin , Pfaff Holger
Published: November 2021

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common cause for reduced work capacity and sick leave. Workplace health promotion programs are often neither tailored to the workplace nor the individual needs of the employees. To counteract lacking intersectional care, this four-year randomized controlled trial (RCT) aimed to investigate the effects of modular coordinating case management (treatment group) compared to supported self-management (control group) on MSD specific sick leave days (routine data), workability (WAI), self-efficacy (self-efficacy scale), and pain (German pain questionnaire, GPQ). The study network comprised 22 companies, 15 company health insurance funds, and 12 pension funds in Germany. Overall, 852 participants (Module A/early intervention: n = 651, Module B/rehabilitation: n = 190, Module C/reintegration: n = 10) participated. Both groups achieved fewer sick leave days, higher workability, and less pain (p < 0.0001) at follow-up compared to baseline. At follow-up, the coordinating case management group showed fewer disability days (GPQ), lower disability scores (GPQ), and lower pain intensities (GPQ) than the supported self-management group (p < 0.05), but no superiority regarding MSD specific sick leave days, workability, nor self-efficacy. Module A showed more comprehensive differences. The accompanying process evaluation shows barriers and facilitators for the implementation of the program, especially in a RCT setting.
Italian Children Exposure to Bisphenol A: Biomonitoring Data from the LIFE PERSUADED Project
Authors: Tait Sabrina , Carli Fabrizia , Busani Luca , Ciociaro Demetrio , Della Latta Veronica , Deodati Annalisa , Fabbrizi Enrica , Pala Anna Paola , Maranghi Francesca , Tassinari Roberta , Toffol Giacomo , Cianfarani Stefano , Gastaldelli Amalia , La Rocca Cinzia ,   LIFE PERSUADED Project Group
Published: November 2021

A human biomonitoring (HBM) study on bisphenol A (BPA) in Italian children and adolescents was performed within the LIFE PERSUADED project, considering the residing areas, sex and age. The median urinary BPA level was 7.02 µg/L, with children living in the South of Italy or in urban areas having higher levels than those residing in the North or in rural areas. Children aged 4–6 years had higher BPA levels than those aged 7–10 and 11–14 years, but no differences were detected between sexes. The exposure in Italian children was higher compared to children from other countries, but lower than the HBM guidance value (135 µg/L). The estimated daily intake was 0.17 μg/kg body weight (bw) per day, about 24-fold below the temporary Tolerable Daily Intake of 4 μg/kg bw per day established by the European Food Safety Authority. However, this threshold was exceeded in 1.44% of the enrolled children, raising concern about the overall exposure of Italian young population.
Requirements for Becoming an Adjunct Professor in Medicine: A Comparative Analysis of the Regulations of German Medical Faculties
Authors: Altenberger Sarah , Leischik Roman , Vollenberg Richard , Jehn Ulrich , Reinecke Holger , Ehlers Jan Peter , Strauss Markus
Published: November 2021

Background: Following a medical habilitation or equivalent qualification after continuous scientific activity, one can apply for a position as an adjunct professor (außerplanmäßige Professur). The medical faculties in Germany have issued regulations for these appointments. The aim of this paper was to compare the requirements for appointment as an adjunct professor among medical faculties. Methods: The currently valid regulations of medical faculties in Germany were analyzed for the target criteria of publication performance, teaching performance, possibility of shortening the procedure; consideration of appointment for junior professor, patents, acquisition of third-party funding, medical didactic qualifications, and/or special scientific achievements; and review procedure. Results: An analysis of 38 currently valid regulations showed large differences between the requirements. The number of required first/senior authorships differs significantly within the regulations (from 4 to 16). The median of the required number of first/senior authorships is six (Q1 = 5, Q3 = 7). In total, 93% (n = 35) of the universities provide information on the publication medium or the value of the publication. Third-party funding is desired or required in 68% (n = 26) of the regulations. There are also clear differences in the scope of required teaching activities, which range from two to a maximum of six years of teaching. Shortening the time to apply for an adjunct professorship is possible in 45% (n = 17) of the cases. In total, 97% (n = 37) of the faculties provide information on external review, with 71% (n = 27) most frequently requesting one or two external reviews. Conclusion: The regulations show clear differences among individual requirements for adjunct professorship. Standardization would be desirable and would lead to comparable conditions and therefore also to a fair recognition of scientific achievements.
The Effect of Parental Education and Socioeconomic Status on Dental Caries among Saudi Children
Authors: Ellakany Passent , Madi Marwa , Fouda Shaimaa M. , Ibrahim Maria , AlHumaid Jehan
Published: November 2021

Parental attitudes toward the importance of oral hygiene have an impact on the formation of their children’s oral habits and the prevalence of oral diseases. Our aim was to assess the association between parents’ education and socioeconomic status and their children’s oral health. A cross-sectional study was conducted between the years of 2018 and 2020 in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia among primary school children. Two pre-calibrated dentists performed the clinical examination of the children, and a self-administered validated questionnaire was obtained from their parents. Clinical examination was performed on 589 children with an age range of 3 to 14 years, where 47% were males and 53% were females, 70% with dental caries. Both parents with higher education and a high monthly income were significantly associated with lower prevalence of decayed teeth in their children, respectively. Mother’s education, age, gender and application of sealant were found significantly associated with the high prevalence of caries. High prevalence of tooth decay was reported among school children in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. A high educational level of parents and high income were correlated with a lower prevalence of decayed teeth, similarly to the situation in the case of presence of medical insurance.
A Spatial Analysis of Tuberculosis Related Mortality in South Africa
Authors: Kibuuka Dan , Mpofu Charles , Neave Penny , Manda Samuel
Published: November 2021

Background: South Africa, with an estimated annual tuberculosis (TB) incidence of 360,000 cases in 2019, remains one of the countries with the largest burden of TB in the world. The identification of highly burdened TB areas could support public health policy planners to optimally target resources and TB control and prevention interventions. Objective: To investigate the spatial epidemiology and distribution of TB mortality in South Africa in 2010 and its association with area-level poverty and HIV burden. Methods: The study analysed a total of 776,176 TB deaths for the period 2005–2015. Local and global and spatial clustering of TB death rates were investigated by Global and Local Moran’s Indices methods (Moran’s I). The spatial regression analysis was employed to assess the effect of poverty and HIV on TB mortality rates. Results: There was a significant decrease in TB mortality rate, from 179 per 100,000 population in 2005 to 60 per 100,000 population in 2015. The annual TB mortality rate was higher among males (161.5 per 100,000 male population; (95% confidence interval (CI) 132.9, 190.0) than among females (123.2 per 100,000 female population; (95% CI 95.6, 150.8)). The 35–44 age group experienced higher TB mortality rates, regardless of gender and time. Hot spot clusters of TB mortality were found in the South-Eastern parts of the country, whereas cold spot clusters were largely in the north-eastern parts. Tuberculosis death rates were positively associated with poverty, as measured by the South African Multidimension Poverty Index (SAMPI) as well TB death rates in the neighbouring districts. Conclusion: The findings of this study revealed a statistically significant decrease in TB deaths and a disproportionate distribution of TB deaths among certain areas and population groups in South Africa. The existence of the identified inequalities in the burden of TB deaths calls for targeted public health interventions, policies, and resources to be directed towards the most vulnerable populations in South Africa.
Patient-Reported Questionnaires to Identify Adverse Drug Reactions: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lim Renly , Ellett Lisa , Roughead Elizabeth , Cheah Phaik , Masnoon Nashwa
Published: November 2021

Background: This systematic review aims to summarise available patient-reported questionnaires to detect adverse drug reactions (ADRs) that can be utilised by healthcare professionals in clinical practice and to summarise the psychometric properties (validity, reliability, and responsiveness) of the questionnaires. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using Medline, Pubmed, Embase, and Emcare databases to screen for articles published between January 2000 and July 2020. Data items regarding validity, reliability, and responsiveness were extracted independently by two authors. The methodological quality was assessed using the COSMIN (Consensus-Based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments) checklist. Results: A total of 1563 unique article titles were identified after removing duplicates. Following shortlisting of relevant articles, 19 patient-reported ADR questionnaires were identified. Questionnaires most commonly focused on mental health medications (42.1%, n = 8), followed by general questionnaires applicable to any medication (21.1%, n = 4). Many questionnaires did not report assessing the validity and reliability of the measurement tool. For example, only 11 questionnaires (58%) mentioned assessing content validity, in addition to criterion or construct testing. Conclusion: This systematic review summarised the available patient-reported questionnaires that can be used in research and clinical practice to identify ADRs. Results of this systematic review highlight the need for more robust validity and reliability testing when developing patient-reported ADR questionnaires.
The Role of Regulation and Emotional Eating Behaviour in the Early Development of Obesity
Authors: Valero-García Ana V. , Olmos-Soria Marina , Madrid-Garrido Julia , Martínez-Hernández Irene , Haycraft Emma
Published: November 2021

The purpose of our research was to explore the role of both parents’ use of behavioural regulation with food and children’s emotional self-regulation in young children with and without overweight/obesity. For this purpose, 123 participants (n = 62 boys and n = 61 girls) were recruited and classified into two groups by their Body Mass Index (BMI, non-overweight vs. overweight/obese) and into two age groups (four years and seven years). The children’s parents/primary caregivers completed two scales of the Childhood Obesogenic Behaviours’ Questionnaire (COBQ). The participants were measured and weighed to calculate their BMI to identify overweight, obesity, and non-overweight. The results showed that the means for children who were obese/overweight were significantly higher than those of children who were non-overweight for both the parents’ behavioural regulation scale (non-overweight: M = 1.80, SD = 0.69; overweight/obesity: M = 2.94, SD = 0.85) and the child’s emotional overeating scale (non-overweight: M = 1.47, SD = 0.56; overweight/obesity: M = 2.65, SD = 0.87). No statistically significant differences were found related to age (4 and 7 years), indicating that the potential impact of obesogenic behaviours starts early in development. Similarly, no differences by gender were found. Due to the implications of obesity for physical and mental health, and the high probability of maintaining this overweight status in the long term, family-based interventions to prevent obesity are highly advisable from birth.
3D Point Cloud Data in Conveying Information for Local Green Factor Assessment
Authors: Jaalama Kaisa , Kauhanen Heikki , Keitaanniemi Aino , Rantanen Toni , Virtanen Juho-Pekka , Julin Arttu , Vaaja Matti , Ingman Matias , Ahlavuo Marika , Hyyppä Hannu
Published: November 2021

The importance of ensuring the adequacy of urban ecosystem services and green infrastructure has been widely highlighted in multidisciplinary research. Meanwhile, the consolidation of cities has been a dominant trend in urban development and has led to the development and implementation of the green factor tool in cities such as Berlin, Melbourne, and Helsinki. In this study, elements of the green factor tool were monitored with laser-scanned and photogrammetrically derived point cloud datasets encompassing a yard in Espoo, Finland. The results show that with the support of 3D point clouds, it is possible to support the monitoring of the local green infrastructure, including elements of smaller size in green areas and yards. However, point clouds generated by distinct means have differing abilities in conveying information on green elements, and canopy covers, for example, might hinder these abilities. Additionally, some green factor elements are more promising for 3D measurement-based monitoring than others, such as those with clear geometrical form. The results encourage the involvement of 3D measuring technologies for monitoring local urban green infrastructure (UGI), also of small scale.
Impact Assessing of Traffic Lights via GPS Vehicle Trajectories
Authors: Liao Zhuhua , Xiao Hao , Liu Silin , Liu Yizhi , Yi Aiping
Published: November 2021

The adaptability of traffic lights in the control of vehicle traffic heavily affects the trafficability of vehicles and the travel efficiency of traffic participants in busy urban areas. Existing studies mainly have focused on the presence of traffic lights, but rarely evaluate the impact of traffic lights by analyzing traffic data, thus there is no solution for practicably and precisely self-regulating traffic lights. To address these issues, we propose a low-cost and fast traffic signal detection and impact assessment framework, which detects traffic lights from GPS trajectories and intersection features in a supervised way, and analyzes the impact range and time of traffic lights from intersection track data segments. The experimental results show that our approach gains the best AUC value of 0.95 under the ROC standard classification and indicates that the impact pattern of traffic lights at intersections is high related to the travel rule of traffic participants.
Complex Carbohydrates and Glycoconjugates: Structure, Functions and Applications
Authors: Chizhov Alexander O.
Published: November 2021

The study of carbohydrates has a long history: for two centuries, the researches performed the way from “sweet matter” to glycomics [...]
Relativistic versus Nonrelativistic Approaches to a Low Perveance High Quality Matched Beam for a High Efficiency Ka-Band Klystron
Authors: Behtouei Mostafa , Spataro Bruno , Faillace Luigi , Carillo Martina , Leggieri Alberto , Palumbo Luigi , Migliorati Mauro
Published: November 2021

Advanced technical solution for the design of a low perveance electron gun with a high quality beam dedicated to high power Ka-band klystrons is presented in this paper. The proposed electron gun can be used to feed linear accelerating structures at 36 GHz with an estimated input power of 20 MW, thus achieving an effective accelerating electric field in the (100–150) MV/m range. Additionally, in the framework of the Compact Light XLS project, a short Ka-band accelerating structure providing an integrated voltage of at least 15 MV, has been proposed for bunch-phase linearization. For the klystron, a very small beam dimension is needed and the presented electron gun responds to this requirement. An estimate of the rotational velocity at beam edge indicates that the diamagnetic field due to rotational currents are small compared to the longitudinal volume. A detailed analysis of how this has been achieved, including compression of the beam, rotation in the magnetic field, and analysis of the subsequently generated diamagnetic field has been discussed.
Design and Research Sowing Devices for Aerial Sowing of Forest Seeds with UAVs
Authors: Lysych Mikhail , Bukhtoyarov Leonid , Druchinin Denis
Published: November 2021

Modern unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) can be effectively used for aerial sowing of forests. A feature of aerial sowing is the possibility of rapid reforestation at low costs, which is extremely important in the current environmental situation. The purpose of this study is to develop a set of sowing devices intended for use with UAVs. For this, the metering devices and seed distribution devices were analyzed, used on the UAV or having prospects for such use. The existing studies of metering devices, implemented by numerical methods, are analyzed. Further, the synthesis of eight different designs of sowing devices in the 3D CAD was carried out and their comparative assessment was completed in terms of mass and a set of technological parameters. Based on its results, a sowing device was selected that is most suitable for a specific given technology. Discrete Element Method (DEM) was used to simulate the workflow: imitation of loading of the sowing device, study of work in various modes, study of the process of impact interaction of seeds with the soil environment. The complex of developed sowing devices can provide sowing of almost any type of forest seeds within the framework of various technologies and soil climatic conditions.
Real-World Experience of Chronic Hepatitis C-Related Compensated Liver Cirrhosis Treated with Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Su Pei-Yuan , Chen Yang-Yuan , Lai Jun-Hung , Chen Hung-Ming , Yao Chih-Ta , Liu I-Ling , Zeng Ya-Huei , Huang Siou-Ping , Hsu Yu-Chun , Wu Shun-Sheng , Siao Fu-Yuan , Yen Hsu-Heng
Published: November 2021

Background: Glecaprevir/pibrentasvir is a protease inhibitor-containing pangenotypic direct-acting antiviral regimen that has been approved for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. The present study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir in patients with compensated cirrhosis in a real-world setting. Methods: We evaluated the real-world safety and efficacy of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir in patients with compensated cirrhosis from five hospitals in the Changhua Christian Care System, who underwent treatment between August 2018 and October 2020. The primary endpoint was a sustained virological response observed 12 weeks after completion of the treatment. Results: Ninety patients, including 70 patients who received the 12-week therapy and 20 patients who received the 8-week therapy, were enrolled. The mean age of the patients was 65 years, and 57.8% of the patients were males. Sixteen (17.8%) patients had end-stage renal disease, and 15 (16.7%) had co-existing hepatoma. The hepatitis C virus genotypes 1 (40%) and 2 (35.6%) were most common. The common side effects included anorexia (12.2%), pruritus (7.8%), abdominal discomfort (7.8%), and malaise (7.8%). Laboratory adverse grade ≥3 events included anemia (6.3%), thrombocytopenia (5.1%), and jaundice (2.2%). The overall sustained virological response rates were 94.4% and 97.7% in the intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses, respectively. Conclusions: the glecaprevir/pibrentasvir treatment regimen was highly effective and well tolerated among patients with compensated cirrhosis in the real-world setting.
Viral Myocarditis—From Pathophysiology to Treatment
Authors: Schultheiss Heinz-Peter , Baumeier Christian , Aleshcheva Ganna , Bock C.-Thomas , Escher Felicitas
Published: November 2021

The diagnosis of acute and chronic myocarditis remains a challenge for clinicians. Characterization of this disease has been hampered by its diverse etiologies and heterogeneous clinical presentations. Most cases of myocarditis are caused by infectious agents. Despite successful research in the last few years, the pathophysiology of viral myocarditis and its sequelae leading to severe heart failure with a poor prognosis is not fully understood and represents a significant public health issue globally. Most likely, at a certain point, besides viral persistence, several etiological types merge into a common pathogenic autoimmune process leading to chronic inflammation and tissue remodeling, ultimately resulting in the clinical phenotype of dilated cardiomyopathy. Understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms is necessary to assess the prognosis of patients and is fundamental to appropriate specific and personalized therapeutic strategies. To reach this clinical prerequisite, there is the need for advanced diagnostic tools, including an endomyocardial biopsy and guidelines to optimize the management of this disease. The severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has currently led to the worst pandemic in a century and has awakened a special sensitivity throughout the world to viral infections. This work aims to summarize the pathophysiology of viral myocarditis, advanced diagnostic methods and the current state of treatment options.
GAP Score and CA-153 Associated with One-Year Mortality in Anti-MDA-5 Antibody-Positive Patients: A Real-World Experience
Authors: Tseng Chih-Wei , Wang Kao-Lun , Fu Pin-Kuei , Huang Cheng-Yi , Hsieh Tsu-Yi , Hsieh Chia-Wei , Lai Kuo-Lung , Hung Wei-Ting , Lin Ching-Tsai , Tang Kuo-Tung , Chen Yi-Ming , Huang Wen-Nan , Chen Yi-Hsing
Published: November 2021

Background. Anti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA-5) antibody is associated with respiratory failure and death in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myositis (IIM) and interstitial lung disease (ILD). This study aimed to investigate clinical parameters associated with mortality in anti-MDA-5 antibody-positive patients. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and laboratory data, and pulmonary function test results in 55 anti-MDA-5 antibody-positive patients. A comparison was made between the survivors and non-survivors at the 12-month follow-up. Results. A total of 13 patients (23.6%) died within 12 months. Non-survivors had higher GAP scores (gender, age, and physiology score for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis) (1 vs. 6, p < 0.01) and CA-153 (16.4 vs. 72.9, p < 0.01). In addition, rapid progressive ILD, fever, peak ferritin, leukocyte count, lactate dehydrogenase, CT score, intravenous immunoglobulin, mycophenolic acid, CMV infections, pneumocystis pneumonia, and pneumothorax were significantly associated with increased risks of 1-year mortality, while forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in one second, and diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide were correlated with decreased risk of 1-year mortality. Conclusions. Our study results suggest that GAP scores and CA-153 could be prognostic factors for 1-year mortality in anti-MDA-5 antibody-positive patients. A prompt pulmonary function test and CA-153 are essential for these patients to guide further management.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) and Hypercoagulability in Plasma Cell Dyscrasias—Is This Phenomenon Worthy of Exploration?
Authors: Ciepiela Olga , Małecka-Giełdowska Milena , Czyżewska Emilia
Published: November 2021

Plasma cell dyscrasias (PCDs) are neoplastic diseases derived from plasma cells. Patients suffering from PCDs are at high risk of hypercoagulability and thrombosis. These conditions are associated with disease-related factors, patient-related factors, or the use of immunomodulatory drugs. As PCDs belong to neoplastic diseases, some other factors related to the cancer-associated hypercoagulability state in the course of PCDs are also considered. One of the weakest issues studied in PCDs is the procoagulant activity of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). NETs are web-like structures released from neutrophils in response to different stimuli. These structures are made of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and bactericidal proteins, such as histones, myeloperoxidase, neutrophil elastase, and over 300 other proteins, which are primarily stored in neutrophil granules. NETs immobilize, inactivate the pathogens, and expose them to specialized cells of immune response. Despite their pivotal role in innate immunity, they contribute to the development and exacerbation of autoimmune diseases, trigger inflammatory response, or even facilitate the formation of cancer metastases. NETs were also found to induce activity of coagulation and are considered one of the most important factors inducing thrombosis. Here, we summarize how PCDs influence the release of NETs, and hypothesize whether NETs contribute to hypercoagulability in PCDs patients.
Artificial Intelligence—A Tool for Risk Assessment of Delayed-Graft Function in Kidney Transplant
Authors: Konieczny Andrzej , Stojanowski Jakub , Rydzyńska Klaudia , Kusztal Mariusz , Krajewska Magdalena
Published: November 2021

Delayed-graft function (DGF) might be responsible for shorter graft survival. Therefore, a clinical tool predicting its occurrence is vital for the risk assessment of transplant outcomes. In a single-center study, we conducted data mining and machine learning experiments, resulting in DGF predictive models based on random forest classifiers (RF) and an artificial neural network called multi-layer perceptron (MLP). All designed models had four common input parameters, determining the best accuracy and discriminant ability: donor’s eGFR, recipient’s BMI, donor’s BMI, and recipient–donor weight difference. RF and MLP designs, using these parameters, achieved an accuracy of 84.38% and an area under curve (AUC) 0.84. The model additionally implementing a donor’s age, gender, and Kidney Donor Profile Index (KDPI) accomplished an accuracy of 93.75% and an AUC of 0.91. The other configuration with the estimated post-transplant survival (EPTS) and the kidney donor risk profile (KDRI) achieved an accuracy of 93.75% and an AUC of 0.92. Using machine learning, we were able to assess the risk of DGF in recipients after kidney transplant from a deceased donor. Our solution is scalable and can be improved during subsequent transplants. Based on the new data, the models can achieve better outcomes.
Standalone Flow Diversion Therapy Effectively Controls Rebleeding of Acutely Ruptured Internal Carotid Artery Trunk (Nonbranching) Microaneurysms
Authors: Cohen José E. , Henkes Hans , Gomori John Moshe , Rajz Gustavo , Leker Ronen
Published: November 2021

Flow diversion is a promising option in selected patients with acutely ruptured microaneurysms. In this article, we reviewed our experience. Patients with acute spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) after rupture of a blister-like or saccular microaneurysm (≤2 mm maximal diameter) at a nonbranching ICA site treated from January 2016 to June 2019 using flow diversion as standalone therapy were included in this study. An EVD was usually placed preventively. Antiplatelet effects of pre-procedure DAPT were evaluated (target PRU, 80–160). After the intervention, DAPT was continued for ≥6 months, aspirin—indefinitely. Angiographic controls were obtained. Fifteen patients (12 female; mean age, 46.4 years) with 15 ruptured ICA microaneurysms (mean diameter, 1.8 mm) were included. An EVD was placed in 12 patients (75%) before DAPT administration and stenting. PRU values immediately before FDS were 1–134 (mean, 72.1). One patient died 27 days after flow diversion due to a suspected fulminant pulmonary embolism. Aneurysms were completely occluded at the 6–12-month angiographic follow-up in 14/14 surviving patients, with no rebleeding at a mean of 14 months. Late mRS was 0–2 in 13/14 patients and 3 in one due to sequelae of the original hemorrhage. Flow diversion provided robust aneurysm rebleeding control. Angiographic follow-up confirmed complete aneurysm occlusion in all the cases.
Poorly Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma: Single Centre Experience and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bellini Maria , Biffoni Marco , Patrone Renato , Borcea Maria , Costanzo Maria , Garritano Tiziana , Melcarne Rossella , Menditto Rosa , Metere Alessio , Scorziello Chiara , Summa Marco , Ventrone Luca , D’Andrea Vito , Giacomelli Laura
Published: November 2021

There is controversy in the literature regarding a distinct subset of thyroid carcinoma whose histologically classification falls between well-differentiated and anaplastic carcinomas, previously identified as ‘poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma’ (PDTC), or ‘insular carcinoma’, in view of the peculiar morphological characteristics of the cell groupings. The correct diagnosis and treatment of this entity have important prognostic and therapeutic significance. In this review, we describe the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of PDTC and report our single centre experience to add to the limited evidence existing in the literature.
Predictors of Ascending Aorta Enlargement and Valvular Dysfunction Progression in Patients with Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Authors: Lopez Angela , Dentamaro Ilaria , Galian Laura , Calvo Francisco , Alegret Josep M. , Sanchez Violeta , Citro Rodolfo , Moreo Antonella , Chirillo Fabio , Colonna Paolo , Carrero María Celeste , Bossone Eduardo , Moral Sergio , Sao-Aviles Augusto , Gutiérrez Laura , Teixido-Tura Gisela , Rodríguez-Palomares Jose , Evangelista Arturo
Published: November 2021

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) patients are at high risk of developing progressive aortic valve dysfunction and ascending aorta dilation. However, the progression of the disease is not well defined. We aimed to assess mid-long-term aorta dilation and valve dysfunction progression and their predictors. Patients were referred from cardiac outpatient clinics to the echocardiographic laboratories of 10 tertiary hospitals and followed clinically and by echocardiography for >5 years. Seven hundred and eighteen patients with BAV (median age 47.8 years [IQR 33–62], 69.2% male) were recruited. BAV without raphe was observed in 11.3%. After a median follow-up of 7.2 years [IQR5–8], mean aortic root growth rate was 0.23 ± 0.15 mm/year. On multivariate analysis, rapid aortic root dilation (>0.35 mm/year) was associated with male sex, hypertension, presence of raphe and aortic regurgitation. Annual ascending aorta growth rate was 0.43 ± 0.32 mm/year. Rapid ascending aorta dilation was related only to hypertension. Variables associated with aortic stenosis and regurgitation progression, adjusted by follow-up time, were presence of raphe, hypertension and dyslipidemia and basal valvular dysfunction, respectively. Intrinsic BAV characteristics and cardiovascular risk factors were associated with aorta dilation and valvular dysfunction progression, taking into account the inherent limitations of our study-design. Strict and early control of cardiovascular risk factors is mandatory in BAV patients.
Advanced Computational Methods for Oncological Image Analysis
Authors: Rundo Leonardo , Militello Carmelo , Conti Vincenzo , Zaccagna Fulvio , Han Changhee
Published: November 2021

The Special Issue “Advanced Computational Methods for Oncological Image Analysis”, published for the Journal of Imaging, covered original research papers about state-of-the-art and novel algorithms and methodologies, as well as applications of computational methods for oncological image analysis, ranging from radiogenomics to deep learning [...]
Investigating Visitor Activity on a Safari Drive
Authors: Lloyd Matthew , Walsh Naomi Davies , Johnson Bridget
Published: November 2021

Despite increasing studies focusing on the visitor experience in zoological collections, minimal attention has been paid to visitor activity when driving through safari parks. The dwell time of visitors at exhibits within a traditional zoo setting has offered a good method to measure exhibit and species popularity, but studying visitors on a safari drive offers a unique set of challenges, with factors such as road length skewing a basic dwell time measurement. Therefore, the current study proposes that average speed offers a robust means to investigate visitor activity on a safari drive. Average speed was found to be significantly different depending on species exhibited, with primates and felids eliciting slower speeds and bovids and cervids faster speeds. This result broadly mirrors that of traditional zoo studies where primates elicit longer dwell times. Future safari drive studies could help inform decisions made on a safari drive for aspects such a collection planning, drive layout and exhibit design. Harnessing tracking technology, e.g., GPS, alongside more diverse methodologies, such as questionnaires and multi-institutional approaches, would further allow more robust conclusions to be drawn.
Influence of Rainfall Changes on the Temperature Regime of Permafrost in Central Yakutia
Authors: Zhirkov Aleksandr , Permyakov Petr , Wen Zhi , Kirillin Anatolii
Published: November 2021

Climate change effects, such as melting of glaciers and sea ice in response to rising temperatures, may lead to an increase in global water availability and thus in precipitation. In Central Yakutia, as one of the possible options for climate change, an increase in rainfall is possible, which makes up more than 60% of the annual precipitation. Rainfall is a highly variable meteorological parameter both spatially and temporally. In order to assess its effect on the ground temperature regime in Central Yakutia, we conducted manipulation and numerical experiments with increased rainfall. The manipulation experiment results suggest that a significant (three-fold) increase in rainfall can lower the mean annual ground temperatures locally. The long-term simulation predicts that a 50% increase in rainfall would have a warming effect on the ground thermal regime on a regional scale. For Central Yakutia, infiltration of increased precipitation has been shown to have both warming and cooling effect depending on the area affected.
Assessing the Opportunity Cost of Carbon Stock Caused by Land-Use Changes in Taiwan
Authors: Chu Ming-Yun , Liu Wan-Yu
Published: November 2021

As compared with conventional approaches for reducing carbon emissions, the strategies of reducing emissions from deforestations and forest degradation (REDD) can greatly reduce costs. Hence, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change regards the REDD strategies as a crucial approach to mitigate climate change. To respond to climate change, Taiwan passed the Greenhouse Gas Reduction and Management Act to control the emissions of greenhouse gases. In 2021, the Taiwan government has announced that it will achieve the carbon neutrality target by 2050. Accordingly, starting with focusing on the carbon sink, the REDD strategies have been considered a recognized and feasible strategy in Taiwan. This study analyzed the net present value and carbon storage for various land-use types to estimate the carbon stock and opportunity cost of land-use changes. When the change of agricultural land to artificial forests generated carbon stock, the opportunity cost of carbon stock was negative. Contrarily, restoring artificial forests (which refer to a kind of forest that is formed through artificial planting, cultivation, and conservation) to agricultural land would generate carbon emissions, but create additional income. Since the opportunity cost of carbon storage needs to be lower than the carbon market price so that landlords have incentives to conduct REDD+, the outcomes of this study can provide a reference for the government to set an appropriate subsidy or price for carbon sinks. It is suggested that the government should offer sufficient incentives to reforest collapsed land, and implement interventions, promote carbon trading policies, or regulate the development of agricultural land so as to maintain artificial broadleaf forests for increased carbon storage.
Evolving Evidence in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Authors: Mollan Susan P. , Moss Heather E. , Hamann Steffen
Published: November 2021

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is an enigmatic disorder characterized by raised intracranial pressure (ICP) with no known cause and it affects both children and adults [...]
CO2 Methanation: Nickel–Alumina Catalyst Prepared by Solid-State Combustion
Authors: Netskina Olga , Mucha Svetlana , Veselovskaya Janna , Bolotov Vasily , Komova Oxana , Ishchenko Arkady , Bulavchenko Olga , Prosvirin Igor , Pochtar Alena , Rogov Vladimir
Published: November 2021

The development of solvent-free methods for the synthesis of catalysts is one of the main tasks of green chemistry. A nickel–alumina catalyst for CO2 methanation was synthesized by solid-state combustion method using hexakis-(imidazole) nickel (II) nitrate complex. Using X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Hydrogen temperature-programmed reduction (H2-TPR), it was shown that the synthesized catalyst is characterized by the localization of easily reduced nickel oxide on alumina surface. This provided low-temperature activation of the catalyst in the reaction mixture containing 4 vol% CO2. In addition, the synthesized catalyst had higher activity in low-temperature CO2 methanation compared to industrial NIAP-07-01 catalyst, which contained almost three times more hard-to-reduce nickel–aluminum spinel. Thus, the proposed approaches to the synthesis and activation of the catalyst make it possible to simplify the catalyst preparation procedure and to abandon the use of solvents, which must be disposed of later on.
Effect of Implant Surface Roughness and Macro- and Micro-Structural Composition on Wear and Metal Particles Released
Authors: El Hassanin Andrea , Quaremba Giuseppe , Sammartino Pasquale , Adamo Daniela , Miniello Alessandra , Marenzi Gaetano
Published: November 2021

Background: Considerations about implant surface wear and metal particles released during implant placement have been reported. However, little is known about implant surface macro- and microstructural components, which can influence these events. The aim of this research was to investigate accurately the surface morphology and chemical composition of commercially available dental implants, by means of multivariate and multidimensional statistical analysis, in order to predict their effect on wear onset and particle release during implant placement. Methods: The implant surface characterization (roughness, texture) was carried out through Confocal Microscopy and SEM-EDS analysis; the quantitative surface quality variables (amplitude and hybrid roughness parameters) were statistically analyzed through post hoc Bonferroni’s test for pair comparisons. Results: The parameters used by discriminant analysis evidenced several differences in terms of implant surface roughness between the examined fixtures. In relation to the observed surface quality, some of the investigated implants showed the presence of residuals due to the industrial surface treatments. Conclusions: Many structural components of the dental implant surface can influence the wear onset and particles released during the implant placement.
Professional Mechanical Tooth Cleaning Method for Dental Implant Surface by Agar Particle Blasting
Authors: Sato Hideaki , Ishihata Hiroshi , Kameyama Yutaka , Shimpo Ryokichi , Komasa Satoshi
Published: November 2021

Oral dysfunction due to peri-implantitis and shortened life of implants has become a major concern. Self-care and removal of oral biofilms by professional mechanical tooth cleaning (PMTC) are indispensable for its prevention. However, if the surface roughness of the implant is increased, it may result in the adhesion of biofilm in the oral cavity. Therefore, the PMTC method can serve for long-term implant management. Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) has been used as a cleaning method for implant surfaces; however, there is concern that the implant surface roughness could increase due to particle collision. Therefore, in this study, to establish a blasting cleaning method that does not adversely affect the implant surface, a new blasting cleaning method using agar particles was devised and its practical application examined. When the simulated stains were blasted with white alumina (WA) abrasive grains and CaCO3 particles, the simulated stains were almost removed, the surface roughness changed to a satin-finished surface—which was thought to be due to fine scratches—and the surface roughness increased. Most of the simulated stains were removed on the surface of the sample blasted with glycine particles and agar particles. Conversely, the gloss of the sample surface was maintained after cleaning, and the increase in surface roughness was slight.
Research of Vibrations of an Armoured Personnel Carrier Hull with FE Implementation
Authors: Hryciów Zdzisław , Małachowski Jerzy , Rybak Piotr , Wiśniewski Andrzej
Published: November 2021

Modern wheeled armoured vehicles can perform a variety of tasks, making the development of weapon systems that can be safely and effectively integrated with the vehicle structure an area of interest. Due to the cost of implementing new models, it is more economical to test potential configurations using numerical methods, such as the finite element method. The numerical model has been validated to confirm the reliability of the obtained results. Modal tests were also performed using four configurations to identify the frequency and mode shape of natural vibrations occurring within the support structure. In an experimental setting, hull vibrations were forced using the modal hammer testing method. The modal assurance criterion (MAC) and the authors’ procedure were used to confirm the experimental and numerical test results. Additional testing in the form of impact loads was carried out for turret-containing structures. Structural strain at indicated points and forces transmitted by brackets to the bottom of the hull were compared.