bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Projected Land Use and Climate Change on Water Quality of Old Woman Creek Watershed, Ohio
Authors: Olaoye Israel A. , Confesor Remegio B. , Ortiz Joseph D.
Published: April 2021

The separate and synergistic effects of land use and climate change on water quality variables in Old Woman Creek (OWC) watershed were evaluated using a hydrological model set up in Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) for the OWC watershed. Model calibration was done using a multi-objective evolutionary algorithm and pareto optimization. The Parameter-Elevation Regressions on Independent Slopes Model (PRISM) climate data and the 20 different Global Circulation Models (GCMs) developed by the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase five (CMIP5) were used. Validation was done using the streamflow data from USGS gaging station and water quality data from the water quality lab, Heidelberg University. The simulation was divided into two land use scenarios: Scenario 1 for constant land use and Scenario 2 where land use was varied. Both land use simulations were run in four time periods to account for climate change: historical (1985–2014), current to near future (2018–2045), mid-century (2046–2075), and late-century (2076–2100) climate windows. For the historical period, the average of all the simulations made from the 20 different CMIP5 GCMs shows good agreement with the PRISM results for flow and the water quality variables of interest with smaller inter-model variability compared to PRISM results. For the other three climate windows, the results of Scenario 1 show an increase in flow and eight water quality variables (sediment (total suspended sediment), organic nitrogen, organic phosphorus (particulate p), mineral phosphorus (soluble reactive p), chlorophyll a, carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand (CBOD), dissolved oxygen, total nitrogen) across the climate windows but a slight decrease in one water quality variable, mineral phosphorus in the mid-century. The results of Scenario 2 show a greater increase in flow, and the eight water quality variables across the climate windows show a relatively larger decrease in one water quality variable (mineral phosphorus). The projected land use change has little impact compared to the projected climate change on OWC watershed in the 21st century.
Smartphone Addiction and Cybercrime Victimization in the Context of Lifestyles Routine Activities and Self-Control Theories: The User’s Dual Vulnerability Model of Cybercrime Victimization
Authors: Herrero Juan , Torres Andrea , Vivas Pep , Hidalgo Antonio , Rodríguez Francisco J. , Urueña Alberto
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: This paper combines lifestyle-routine activities (L-RAT) and self-control (SCT) theories along with the literature on smartphone addiction in a joint model that addresses the multiple vulnerabilities that make the smartphone user a potential victim of cybercrime. This model, which we call the dual vulnerability model of cybercrime victimization, was subjected to empirical testing on a nationally representative sample of smartphone users. (2) Methods: Data from 2837 participants from a nationally representative sample of Spanish smartphone users were modeled using Mplus causal modeling software. (3) Results: The results of the study confirm the predictions of L-RAT and SCT in explaining cybercrime victimization (higher cybercrime victimization under conditions of high exposure, proximity, and suitability, relative absence of capable guardian, and low self-control). A significant effect of smartphone addiction on cybercrime victimization was also observed above and beyond L-RAT and SCT predictors. (4) Conclusions: The potential victim of cybercrime presents a double vulnerability, on the one hand, those identified by criminological theories such as L-RAT and SCT, and on the other hand, those derived from the deregulated-addicted use of the Internet access device (smartphone in our work).
Knowledge and Perception of COVID-19 Pandemic during the First Wave (Feb–May 2020): A Cross-Sectional Study among Italian Healthcare Workers
Authors: Rizzo Caterina , Campagna Ilaria , Pandolfi Elisabetta , Croci Ileana , Russo Luisa , Ciampini Sara , Gesualdo Francesco , Tozzi Alberto Eugenio , Ricotta Lara , Raponi Massimiliano , Ciofi Degli Atti Marta Luisa
Published: April 2021

Italy was the first country in Europe to face the coronavirus pandemic. The aim of the study was to analyze healthcare workers’ (HCWs) level of information, practice, and risk perception towards COVID-19. We set up a cross-sectional study through SurveyMonkey® and distributed the link through Facebook and Whatsapp closed groups. The research instrument was a 31 items questionnaire distributed using Facebook and Whatsapp. It was conducted in Italy from February to May 2020. The study participants were general practitioners, pediatricians and other health professionals. A total of 958 participants were included: 320 (33.4%) general practitioners, 248 (25.9%) pediatricians and 390 (40.7%) other health professionals. The highest response rate was from Northern Italy (48.1%), followed by Central Italy (29.9%) and Southern Italy (22.0%). Less than a half (46%) of respondents felt they had a good level of information of COVID-19 case definition and of national prevention guidelines. Respondents reported to have changed their clinical practice; particularly, they increased the use of masks (87.1%, p < 0.001), disinfection and sanitization of doctors’ offices (75.8%, p < 0.001), the use of protective glasses (71.2%, p < 0.001), alcoholic hand solution (71.2%, p < 0.001), and hand washing (31.8%, p = 0.028). HCWs are at high risk of infection; less than a half of them felt adequately prepared to face COVID-19 pandemic, so they need extensive information and awareness of the disease to take adequate precautionary measures, and they are crucial to disseminate good practices.
Physical, Perceptual, Socio-Relational, and Affective Skills of Five-Year-Old Children Born Preterm and Full-Term According to Their Body Mass Index
Authors: Gil-Madrona Pedro , Romero-Martínez Sonia J. , Roz-Faraco Carmen C.
Published: April 2021

The main purpose of this study was to compare the psychomotor development of five-year-old children born preterm and full term. The comparison included physical-motor, perceptual-motor, and socio-relational and affective skills. As low weight is one of the variables that most influences the psychomotor development of premature infants, a secondary aim was to analyze these skills according to their current body mass index (BMI). A prospective simple ex-post facto study was conducted. The sample consisted of 672 five-year-old children enrolled in the third year of early childhood education in the province of Albacete, Spain; 35 of them was born prematurely. Children were evaluated by their teachers using the Checklist of Psychomotor Activities (CPA). The results show that children born preterm had a lower development of their physical-motor skills. In the perceptual-motor field, premature children showed lower scores in the variables related to their body image and body schema, motor dissociation, and visual-motor coordination, as well as in socio-relational and affective aspects. However, the development in laterality, dynamic coordination, motor execution, tonic-postural control, and balance were not affected. These differences were not affected by the current weight, given that the analysis of the BMI indicated no differences in preterm children. This study demonstrated the need to establish protocols oriented to the prevention of the difficulties detected in children with psychomotor high-risk and the needs to reinforce the educational programs in this area to improve the integral development of children born preterm.
Association of Air Pollutants with Incident Chronic Kidney Disease in a Nationally Representative Cohort of Korean Adults
Authors: Hwang Seo Yun , Jeong Seogsong , Choi Seulggie , Kim Dong Hyun , Kim Seong Rae , Lee Gyeongsil , Son Joung Sik , Park Sang Min
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: There is limited information regarding association between long-term exposure to air pollutants and risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) (2). Methods: This study acquired data of 164,093 adults aged at least 40 years who were residing in 7 metropolitan cities between 2002 and 2005 from the Korean National Health Insurance Service National Sample Cohort database. CKD risk was evaluated using the multivariate Cox hazards proportional regression. All participants were followed up with until CKD, death, or 31 December 2013, whichever occurred earliest. (3) Results: Among 1,259,461 person-years of follow-up investigation, CKD cases occurred in 1494 participants. Air pollutant exposures including PM10, SO2, NO2, CO, and O3 showed no significant association with incident CKD after adjustments for age, sex, household income, area of residence, and the Charlson comorbidity index. The results were consistent in the sensitivity analyses including first and last year annual exposure analyses as well as latent periods-washed-out analyses. (4) Conclusions: Long-term exposure to air pollution is not likely to increase the risk of CKD.
Planned Home Birth in Low-Risk Pregnancies in Spain: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Galera-Barbero Trinidad M. , Aguilera-Manrique Gabriel
Published: April 2021

Previous studies have shown that planned home birth in low-risk pregnancies is a generally safe option. However nowadays, only 0.5 percent of deliveries have been at home in Spain. This study sought to understand the characteristics of planned home births with qualified healthcare professionals in low-risk pregnancies and their results on maternal and neonatal health in the Balearic Islands. The study followed a retrospective descriptive design to investigate planned home births from 1989 to 2019 (n = 820). Sociodemographic data of women, healthcare professional intervention rates, and maternal/fetal morbidity/mortality results were collected. Statistical analysis of the results was performed using the IBM SPSS Version 25 software package. The results indicated that women with low-risk pregnancies who planned home births with a qualified midwife had a higher probability of spontaneous vaginal birth delivery and positive maternal health results. Furthermore, the risk of hospital transfer was low (10.7%) and the rate of prolonged breastfeeding (>1 year) was extremely high (99%). Moreover, the study showed that planned home births can be generally associated with fetal well-being. The conclusions and implications of this study are that planned home births in low-risk pregnancies attended by qualified midwives in the Balearic Islands achieve positive results in both maternal and newborn health, as well as low rates of obstetric intervention.
The Relationship between Nutritional Status and Functional Capacity: A Contribution Study in Institutionalised Portuguese Older Adults
Authors: Caçador Catarina , Teixeira-Lemos Edite , Oliveira Jorge , Pinheiro João , Mascarenhas-Melo Filipa , Ramos Fernando
Published: April 2021

Demographic aging of the population allied with the new family structures and societal dynamics is generating an increasing demand for institutions for older adults. Nutritional status is a key health determinant that impacts the quality of life among older adults. Hence, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between nutritional status and nutritional risk, functional capacity, and cognition in institutionalised Portuguese older adults by a cross-sectional study in 15 institutions. Nutritional status (body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), nutritional risk (mini nutritional assessment (MNA)), degree of functional independence (Barthel index (BI)), and cognitive ability (mini mental state examination (MMSE)) were assessed. Of the 214 older adults evaluated, 28.0% were at risk of malnutrition, 69.6% were mildly functional dependent, and 39.3% presented minor cognitive impairment. The risk of malnutrition increased functional dependence and cognitive impairment. The MNA score, but not the BMI or WC, was related to disability and deficits in cognition. A differential interdependence was found between nutritional, cognitive, and functional status. Strategies to improve self-care and well-being in nursing homes should consider a correct diet and a closer evaluation of nutritional risk to preserve cognition, independence, and autonomy.
A Model for Determining Predictors of the MUAC in Acute Malnutrition in Ghana
Authors: Sarpong Smart Asomaning , Sarpong Abena Kyeraa , Lee Youngjo
Published: April 2021

The issue of malnutrition is perhaps the most important public health determinant of global wellbeing. It is one of the main causes of improper mental and physical development as well as death of many children. The Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) rapid text setup is able to diagnose malnutrition due to the fact that the human arm contains subcutaneous fat and muscle mass. When proportional food intake increases or reduces, the corresponding increase or reduction in the subcutaneous fat and muscle mass leads to an increase or decrease in the MUAC. In this study, the researchers attempt to develop a model for determining the performance of MUAC in predicting Child malnutrition in Ghana. It focuses on the Joint Generalized Linear Model (Joint-GLM) instead of the traditional Generalized Linear Model (GLM). The analysis is based on primary data measured on children under six years, who were undergoing nutritional treatment at the Princess Marie Louise (PML) Children’s Hospital in the Ashiedu Keteke sub-metro area of Accra Metropolis. The study found that a precisely measured weight of a child, height, and albumen levels were positive determinants of the predicted MUAC value. The study also reveals that, of all the variables used in determining the MUAC outcome, the hemoglobin and total protein levels of a child would be the main causes of any variation between the exact nutritional status of a child and that suggested by the MUAC value. The final Joint-GLM suggests that, if there are occasions where the MUAC gave false results, it could be a result of an imbalance in the child’s hemoglobin and protein levels. If these two are within acceptable levels in a child, the MUAC is most likely to be consistent in predicting the child’s nutritional status accurately. This study therefore recommends the continued use of MUAC in diagnosis of child malnutrition but urges Ghana and countries in Sub-Saharan Africa to roll out an effective nutrition intervention plan targeting the poor and vulnerable suburbs so that the nutritional status of children under five years of age, who were the focus of the current study, may be improved.
Iliac Bone Corridors to Host the Transiliac Internal Fixator—An Experimental CT Based Analysis
Authors: Schmitz Paul , Kerschbaum Maximilian , Lamby Philipp , Lang Siegmund , Alt Volker , Worlicek Michael
Published: April 2021

Background: The transiliac internal fixator (TIFI) is a novel minimally invasive surgical procedure to stabilize posterior pelvic ring fractures. Two bone corridors with different lengths, widths, and angulations are suitable to host screws in the posterior iliac wing. While the length and the width have been described previously, the angulation has not been determined yet. Methods: We created a computer tomography-based 3D-model of 40 patients (20 women, 20 men). The possible bone corridors to host the ilium screws for the TIFIcc (cranio-caudal) and the TIFIdv (dorso-ventral) procedure were identified. After reaching the optimal position, the angles in relation to the sagittal and axial plane were measured. The anterior pelvic plane was chosen as the reference plane. Results: The mean angle of the TIFIcc screws related to the axial plane was 63.4° (±1.8°) and to the sagittal plane was 12.3° (±1.5°). The mean angle of the TIFIdv screws related to the axial plane was 16.1° (±1.2°) and to the sagittal plane was 20.1° (±2.0°). In each group, a high constancy was apparent irrespective of the age or physical dimension of the patient, although a significant gender-dependent difference was observed”. Conclusions: Due to a high inter-individual constancy in length, width, and angulation, bone corridors in the posterior iliac wing are reliable to host screws for posterior pelvic ring fixation irrespective of each individual patient’s anatomy.
Lack of Social Support and Its Role on Self-Perceived Health in a Representative Sample of Spanish Adults. Another Aspect of Gender Inequality
Authors: Wärnberg Julia , Pérez-Farinós Napoleón , Ajejas-Bazán María Julia , Pérez-López Jéssica , Benavente-Marín Juan Carlos , Crespo-Oliva Edelys , Castillo-Antúnez Virginia , Fernández-Barceló Olga , Valenzuela-Guerrero Silvia , Silva-Soto María Ángeles , Barón-López F. Javier
Published: April 2021

Self-perceived health has been used as a good estimator of health status and receiving affection can be a determining factor for good self-perceived health. The aim of the present study was to assess whether lack of social support (measured through Duke scale, which ranges from 11 to 55) was associated with poorer health status measured as self-perceived health, and whether that association was different between women and men. A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the 2017 Spanish National Health Survey. A descriptive study was performed, and logistic regression models were applied using self-perceived health as a dependent variable. Mean Duke score was 47.6 for men and 47.9 for women (p = 0.016). Moreover, 36.3% of women and 27.6% of men reported poor self-perceived health (p < 0.001). The multivariate analysis revealed that lower scores in Duke-UNC social support scale were associated with poorer health status. That association was higher in women than in men. Poor self-perceived health was also associated with low level of education and obesity, especially among women. There was gender inequality as regards health status associated with lack of social support. These results can help design prevention strategies to improve health.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2–Specific Antibodies in Cancer Patients Undergoing Active Systemic Treatment: A Single-Center Experience from the Marche Region, Italy
Authors: Cantini Luca , Bastianelli Lucia , Lupi Alessio , Pinterpe Giada , Pecci Federica , Belletti Giovanni , Stoico Rosa , Vitarelli Francesca , Moretti Marco , Onori Nicoletta , Giampieri Riccardo , Rocchi Marco Bruno Luigi , Berardi Rossana
Published: April 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) seroprevalence in cancer patients may vary widely dependent on the geographic area and this has significant implications for oncological care. The aim of this observational, prospective study was to assess the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 IgM/IgG antibodies in solid cancer patients referred to the academic institution of the Marche Region, Italy, between 1 July and 26 October 2020 and to determine the accuracy of the rapid serological test. After performing 3767 GCCOV-402a rapid serological tests on a total of 949 patients, seroconversion was initially observed in 13 patients (1.4%). Ten (77% of the total positive) were IgG-positive, 1 (8%) were IgM-positive and 2 (15%) IgM-positive/IgG-positive. However, only 7 out of 13 were confirmed as positive at the reference serological test (true positives), thus seroprevalence after cross-checking was 0.7%. No false negatives were reported. The kappa value of the consistency analysis was 0.71. Due to rapid serological test high false positive rate, its role in assessing seroconversion rate is limited, and the standard serological tests should remain the gold standard. However, as rapid test negative predictive value is high, GCCOV-402a may instead be useful to monitor patient immunity over time, thus helping to assist ongoing vaccination programs.
Longitudinal Patterns in Antithrombotic Therapy in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in the Non-Vitamin K Oral Anticoagulant Era: A Nationwide Population-Based Study
Authors: Park Jiesuck , Jung Jin-Hyung , Choi Eue-Keun , Lee Seung-Woo , Kwon Soonil , Lee So-Ryoung , Kang Jeehoon , Han Kyung-Do , Park Kyung-Woo , Oh Seil , Lip Gregory Y. H.
Published: April 2021

We investigated whether longitudinal patterns in antithrombotic therapy have changed after the introduction of non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Using a claims database of the Korean AF population who underwent PCI between 2012 and 2016 (n = 18,691), we analyzed prescription records of oral anticoagulants (OACs) and antiplatelets at 3-month intervals over 2 years after PCI. The study population was stratified (pre-NOAC, transition, and NOAC era) using time-periods of NOAC introduction in Korea and an expansion of reimbursement for NOAC in AF as indicators. The overall rates of OAC were low at baseline (24.9%, 26.9%, and 35.2% in pre-NOAC, transition, and NOAC era, respectively), contrary to high rates of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) (73.3%, 71.4%, and 63.6%). However, OAC prescription rates were increased at 1-year (18.5%, 22.5%, and 31.6%), and 2-year follow-up (17.8%, 24.2%, and 31.8%) from pre-NOAC to NOAC era. In NOAC era, 63.5% of baseline OAC prescriptions comprised NOAC, of which 96.4% included triple therapy with DAPT. Over 2 years, we observed increasing rates of double therapy with a single antiplatelet (18.3% and 20.0% at 1- and 2-year follow-up) and OAC monotherapy (2.7% and 8.9% at 1- and 2-year follow-up).
Diagnostic Accuracy of Non-Imaging and Ultrasound-Based Assessment of Hepatic Steatosis Using Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) as Reference
Authors: Kozłowska-Petriczko Katarzyna , Wunsch Ewa , Petriczko Jan , Syn Wing-Kin , Milkiewicz Piotr
Published: April 2021

Background & Aims: In view of the limited reliability of biopsies in the assessment of liver fat, a non-invasive, trustworthy, and more accessible method estimating a degree of steatosis is urgently needed. While the controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) is used to quantify hepatic fat, its availability in routine practice is limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of biomarker- and ultrasound-based techniques for the diagnosis and grading of hepatic steatosis. Methods: This was a prospective study of 167 adults with and without non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. As measured against CAP, we assessed Hamaguchi’s score and the hepatorenal index (HRI), and the following biochemical measures: the fatty liver index, hepatic steatosis index, and lipid accumulation product scores during a single out-patient visit. Area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) analyses were used to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of each test and to calculate optimal thresholds for the ultrasound techniques. Results: All non-invasive methods displayed high accuracy in detecting steatosis (mean AUC value ≥ 0.90), with Hamaguchi’s score and the HRI being the most precise. These two tests also had the highest sensitivity and specificity (82.2% and 100%; 86.9% and 94.8%, respectively). We propose new thresholds for Hamaguchi’s score and HRI for hepatic steatosis grading, indicated by optimal sensitivity and specificity. Conclusions: Ultrasound-based techniques are the most accurate for assessing liver steatosis compared to other non-invasive tests. Given the accessibility of ultrasonography, this finding is of practical importance for the assessment of liver steatosis in clinical settings.
Tools for the Assessment of the Malnutrition Status and Possible Interventions in Elderly with Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Tonet Elisabetta , Campana Roberta , Caglioni Serena , Gibiino Federico , Fiorio Alessio , Chiaranda Giorgio , Zagnoni Silvia , Casella Gianni , Campo Gianluca
Published: April 2021

Malnutrition represents a common and important feature in elderly people affected by cardiovascular diseases. Several studies have investigated its prevalence and prognostic role in most clinical settings, including cardiovascular disease. However, in daily practice it usually remains unrecognized and consequently untreated. The present review was ideated to answer the main questions about nutritional status assessment in patients with cardiovascular disease: why, when, where, how to evaluate it, and what to do to improve it. The three main cardiovascular diseases, namely aortic stenosis, ischaemic heart disease, and heart failure were considered. First, the main evidence supporting the prognostic role of malnutrition are summarized and analyzed. Second, the main tools for the assessment of malnutrition in the hospital and outpatient setting are reported for each condition. Finally, the possible strategies and interventions to address malnutrition are discussed.
A Combined Multidisciplinary Intervention for Health Promotion in the Workplace: A Pilot Study
Authors: Rapisarda Venerando , Cannizzaro Emanuele , Barchitta Martina , Vitale Ermanno , Cinà Diana , Minciullo Fabrizia , Matera Serena , Bracci Massimo , Agodi Antonella , Ledda Caterina
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of a joint health promotion intervention on a cohort of healthcare workers (HCWs) who had at least one cardiovascular risk factor. The HCWs were assessed at three different times, i.e., time zero (T0), after 6 months (T6), and after 12 months (T12). The following parameters were measured at a medical examination: physical activity, blood pressure, waist circumference, body mass index (BMI), routine laboratory tests, plicometric analysis, work ability index (WAI), and body image dissatisfaction (BID). Among the 447 HCWs, 38 HCWs were included in the study; 45% (n = 17) were male. At T12, the average blood pressure, waist/hip ratio (WHR) index, BMI, total cholesterol, triglyceride level, and blood glucose values were reduced. The levels of physical activity and adherence to the Mediterranean diet had progressively increased. The WAI showed a significant shift from low to good work performance at T12, as well as BID score. This is the first study that has analyzed work performance in relation to a workplace health promotion through a multidisciplinary approach. This health promotion intervention that combined diet and sport activity has led to a significant change in HCWs’ lifestyles and body perceptions, as well as their ability to work. This project highlights the importance of using a multidisciplinary approach and the workplace setting in health promotion programs.
Impact of Cigarette Smoking on the Risk of Osteoporosis in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Ratajczak Alicja Ewa , Szymczak-Tomczak Aleksandra , Rychter Anna Maria , Zawada Agnieszka , Dobrowolska Agnieszka , Krela-Kaźmierczak Iwona
Published: April 2021

Cigarette smoking constitutes one of the most important modifiable factors of osteoporosis, as well as contributes to an early death, tumors, and numerous chronic diseases. The group with an increased risk of a lower bone mineral density are patients suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases. In fact, tobacco smoke, which contains more than 7000 chemical compounds, affects bone mineral density (BMD) both directly and indirectly, as it has an impact on the RANK-RANKL-OPG pathway, intestinal microbiota composition, and calcium–phosphate balance. Constant cigarette use interferes with the production of protective mucus and inhibits the repair processes in the intestinal mucus. Nicotine as well as the other compounds of the cigarette smoke are important risk factors of the inflammatory bowel disease and osteoporosis. Additionally, cigarette smoking may decrease BMD in the IBD patients. Interestingly, it affects patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in different ways—on the one hand it protects against ulcerative colitis, whereas on the other it increases the risk of Crohn’s disease development. Nevertheless, all patients should be encouraged to cease smoking in order to decrease the risk of developing other disorders.
ABG Assistant—Towards an Understanding of Complex Acid-Base Disorders
Authors: Gutowski Łukasz , Gutowska Kaja , Brożek Alicja , Nowicki Marcin , Formanowicz Dorota
Published: April 2021

The ability to diagnose acid-base imbalances correctly is essential for physicians and other healthcare workers. Despite its importance, it is often considered too complex and confusing. Although most people dealing with arterial blood gases (ABGs) do not usually have problems with acid-base disorder assessment, such an analysis is also carried out by other healthcare workers for whom this can be a challenging task. Many aspects may be problematic, partly due to multiple data analysis methods and no definitive statement on which one is better. According to our survey, the correctness of arterial blood gas analysis is unsatisfactory, especially in mixed disorders, which do not always manifest an obvious set of symptoms. Therefore, ABG parameters can be used as an established biomarker panel, which is considered to be a powerful tool for personalized medicine. Moreover, using different approaches to analyze acid-base disorders can lead to varying diagnoses in some cases. Because of these problems, we developed a mobile application that can spot diagnostic differences by taking into account physiological and chemical approaches, including their variants, with a corrected anion gap. The proposed application is characterized by a high percentage of correct analyses and can be an essential aid for diagnosing acid-base disturbances.
Can We Predict Preterm Delivery Based on the Previous Pregnancy?
Authors: Wainstock Tamar , Sergienko Ruslan , Sheiner Eyal
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: Preterm deliveries (PTD, <37 gestational weeks) which occur in 5–18% of deliveries across the world, are associated with immediate and long-term offspring morbidity, as well as high costs to health systems. Our aim was to identify risk factors during the first pregnancy ending at term for PTD in the subsequent pregnancy. (2) Methods: A retrospective population- based nested case−control study was conducted, including all women with two first singleton consecutive deliveries. Women with PTD in the first pregnancy were excluded. Characteristics and complications of the first pregnancy were compared among cases, defined as women with PTD in their second pregnancy, and the controls, defined as women delivering at term in their second pregnancy. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to study the association between pregnancy complications (in the first pregnancy) and PTD (in the subsequent pregnancy), while adjusting for maternal age and the interpregnancy interval. (3) Results: A total of 39,780 women were included in the study, 5.2% (n = 2088) had PTD in their second pregnancy. Women with PTD, as compared to controls (i.e., delivered at term in second pregnancy), were more likely to have the following complications in their first pregnancy: perinatal mortality (0.4% vs. 1.0%), small for gestational age (12.4% vs. 8.1%), and preeclampsia (7.6% vs. 5.7%). In the multivariable model, after adjusting for maternal age, interpregnancy interval and co-morbidities, having any one of these first pregnancy complications was independently associated with an increased risk for PTD (adjusted OR = 1.44; 95%CI 1.28–1.62), and the risk was greater if two or more complications were diagnosed (adjusted OR = 2.09; 95%CI 1.47–3.00). These complications were also risk factors for early PTD (<34 gestational weeks), PTD with a systematic infectious disease in the background, and possibly with spontaneous PTD. (4) Conclusions: First pregnancy complications are associated with an increased risk for PTD in the subsequent pregnancy. First pregnancy, although ending at term, may serve as a window of opportunity to identify women at risk for future PTD.
Improvement of Performance Profile of Acrylic Based Polyester Bio-Composites by Bast/Basalt Fibers Hybridization for Automotive Applications
Authors: Saleem Anjum , Medina Luisa , Skrifvars Mikael
Published: April 2021

New technologies in the automotive industry require lightweight, environment-friendly, and mechanically strong materials. Bast fibers such as kenaf, flax, and hemp reinforced polymers are frequently used composites in semi-structural applications in industry. However, the low mechanical properties of bast fibers limit the applications of these composites in structural applications. The work presented here aims to enhance the mechanical property profile of bast fiber reinforced acrylic-based polyester resin composites by hybridization with basalt fibers. The hybridization was studied in three resin forms, solution, dispersion, and a mixture of solution and dispersion resin forms. The composites were prepared by established processing methods such as carding, resin impregnation, and compression molding. The composites were characterized for their mechanical (tensile, flexural, and Charpy impact strength), thermal, and morphological properties. The mechanical performance of hybrid bast/basalt fiber composites was significantly improved compared to their respective bast fiber composites. For hybrid composites, the specific flexural modulus and strength were on an average about 21 and 19% higher, specific tensile modulus and strength about 31 and 16% higher, respectively, and the specific impact energy was 13% higher than bast fiber reinforced composites. The statistical significance of the results was analyzed using one-way analysis of variance.
Nuclear Medicine Imaging in Neuroblastoma: Current Status and New Developments
Authors: Samim Atia , Tytgat Godelieve A.M. , Bleeker Gitta , Wenker Sylvia T.M. , Chatalic Kristell L.S. , Poot Alex J. , Tolboom Nelleke , van Noesel Max M. , Lam Marnix G.E.H. , de Keizer Bart
Published: April 2021

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid malignancy in children. At diagnosis, approximately 50% of patients present with metastatic disease. These patients are at high risk for refractory or recurrent disease, which conveys a very poor prognosis. During the past decades, nuclear medicine has been essential for the staging and response assessment of neuroblastoma. Currently, the standard nuclear imaging technique is meta-[123I]iodobenzylguanidine ([123I]mIBG) whole-body scintigraphy, usually combined with single-photon emission computed tomography with computed tomography (SPECT-CT). Nevertheless, 10% of neuroblastomas are mIBG non-avid and [123I]mIBG imaging has relatively low spatial resolution, resulting in limited sensitivity for smaller lesions. More accurate methods to assess full disease extent are needed in order to optimize treatment strategies. Advances in nuclear medicine have led to the introduction of radiotracers compatible for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging in neuroblastoma, such as [124I]mIBG, [18F]mFBG, [18F]FDG, [68Ga]Ga-DOTA peptides, [18F]F-DOPA, and [11C]mHED. PET has multiple advantages over SPECT, including a superior resolution and whole-body tomographic range. This article reviews the use, characteristics, diagnostic accuracy, advantages, and limitations of current and new tracers for nuclear medicine imaging in neuroblastoma.
Recent Developments in Cancer Systems Biology: Lessons Learned and Future Directions
Authors: Arga Kazim Y. , Sinha Raghu
Published: April 2021

Cancer is a complex disease involving multiple mechanisms and critical players, at broad genomic, transcriptional, translational and/or biochemical levels [...]
The Development and Adoption of Online Learning in Pre- and Post-COVID-19: Combination of Technological System Evolution Theory and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology
Authors: Qiao Ping , Zhu Xiaoman , Guo Yangzhi , Sun Ying , Qin Chuan
Published: April 2021

After the outbreak of COVID-19, schools heavily depend on e-learning technologies and tools to shift from in-person class to online. This review article analyzes the changes of technology evolution and technology adoption of e-learning in pre- and post-COVID-19 based on the Technology System Evaluation Theory (TSET) and technology adoption of e-learning based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). We intend to explore the interaction of technology evolution and technology adoption in the different focus of e-learning technology in the two stages and the particularity and heterogeneity of the UTAUT model. The results indicate that (1) The moderating results of technology evolution are proposed and evaluated under the UTAUT model before the COVID-19 outbreak. Studies after the COVID-19 pandemic paid more attention to technology efficiency rather than effectiveness; (2) Research on e-learning focuses on the infrastructure to reach more users after the outbreak of COVID-19 because e-learning is the only way to continue education; (3) COVID-19 fear moderates the relationship between the external factors and the behavior intention of e-learning users. The lack of financial support on technology evolution will directly weaken the implementation of new technology. Social Isolation offers more opportunities for students to engage in e-learning. Meanwhile, it slows down the implementation of e-learning because of out-to-date hardware and software. This article offers an enhanced understanding of the interaction of technology evolution and technology adoption under unexpected environments and provides practical insights into how to promote new technology in a way that users will accept and use easily. This study can be tested and extended by empirical research in the future.
The Potential of Tram Networks in the Revitalization of the Warsaw Landscape
Authors: Łukaszkiewicz Jan , Fortuna-Antoszkiewicz Beata , Oleszczuk Łukasz , Fialová Jitka
Published: April 2021

The current crisis of worldwide agglomeration and economic, spatial, and ownership factors, among others, mean that there is usually a shortage of new green areas, which are socially very beneficial. Therefore, various brownfields or degraded lands along public transport routes, e.g., tram lanes, are effectively transformed for this purpose. The significant potential of tram systems is that they can became a backbone of green corridors across the city. This case study of the Warsaw tram system (total length over 300 km of single tracks in service in 2019) enables us to simulate the potential growth of a biologically active area connected with an increasing share of greenery around tram lanes in Warsaw. Experience allows the authors to present the types of greenery systems based on existing and future tram corridors best suited for this city. The suggested usage of tram lanes as green corridors is in line with the generally-accepted concept of urban green infrastructure. Therefore, the aim of the authors is to present in a condensed fashion their views on a very important issue within the program of the revitalization of the Warsaw landscape by converting where possible the existing tram lines, as well as planning new ones according to the “green point of view”.
Does the Tourism Development of a Destination Determine Its Socioeconomic Development? An Analysis through Structural Equation Modeling in Medium-Sized Cities of Andalusia, Spain
Authors: Parrilla-González Juan Antonio
Published: April 2021

Medium-sized European cities have been playing an increasingly significant role in the economic development of countries in recent decades, establishing themselves as genuinely specialized local production systems with great potential for stimulating the economy and generating added value. In many of these cities, in addition, tourism has become an incredibly strong economic activity with the capacity to stimulate local economies, as it contributes to the enhancement of endogenous resources and the generation of a multiplier effect on other economic sectors. This paper uses a structural equation model to demonstrate, first, that a direct relationship exists between tourism development and economic development and second, that, of all cities analyzed (medium-sized cities of Andalusia, Spain), those with a higher level of tourism development are actually those showing a higher level of socioeconomic development, which confirms that tourism has great potential as a tool for endogenous development.
Assessment of Land-Use Scenarios at a National Scale Using Intensity Analysis and Figure of Merit Components
Authors: Shoyama Kikuko
Published: April 2021

To address the impacts of future land changes on biodiversity and ecosystem services, land-use scenarios have been developed at the national scale in Japan. However, the validation of land-use scenarios remains a challenge owing to the lack of an appropriate validation method. This research developed land-use maps for 10 land-use categories to calibrate a land-change model for the 1987–1998 period, simulate changes during the 1998–2014 period, and validate the simulation for the 1998–2014 period. Following an established method, this study assessed the three types of land change: (1) reference change during the calibration time interval, (2) simulation change during the validation time interval, and (3) reference change during the validation time interval, using intensity analysis and figure of merit components (hits, misses, and false alarms). The results revealed the cause of the low accuracy of the national scale land-use scenarios as well as priority solutions, such as aligning the underlying spatial vegetation maps and improving the model to reduce two types of disagreement between the simulation and reference maps. These findings should help to improve the accuracy of model predictions and help to better inform policymakers during the decision-making process.
Historical Evolution of Skin Grafting—A Journey through Time
Authors: Kohlhauser Michael , Luze Hanna , Nischwitz Sebastian Philipp , Kamolz Lars Peter
Published: April 2021

Autologous skin grafting was developed more than 3500 years ago. Several approaches and techniques have been discovered and established in burn care since then. Great achievements were made during the 19th and 20th century. Many of these techniques are still part of the surgical burn care. Today, autologous skin grafting is still considered to be the gold standard for burn wound coverage. The present paper gives an overview about the evolution of skin grafting and its usage in burn care nowadays.
Towards Water, Sodium Chloride and Natural Organic Matter Recovery from Ion Exchange Spent Brine
Authors: Haddad Maryam , Bazinet Laurent , Barbeau Benoit
Published: April 2021

Despite the tremendous success of the application of anion exchange resins (IX) in natural organic matter (NOM) removal over conventional removal methods, the considerable amount of brine spent during its regeneration cycle makes its sustainability questionable. This polluting saline stream can be challenging to manage and costly to discharge. Alternatively, and with the recent shift in perception of resource recovery, the produced spent brine can no longer be seen as a polluting waste but as an unconventional source of water, minerals and nutrients. In this research, for the first time, we evaluated the effectiveness of an integrated monovalent selective electrodialysis (MSED) and direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) system in IX spent brine desalination and resource recovery. Of particular interest were the effects of operating time on the characteristics of the monovalent permselective ion exchange membranes, the impact of the DCMD stack configuration on minimizing heat loss to the ambient environment and the efficacy of the recovered NaCl in the regenerating cycle of the exhausted IXs. Our findings demonstrated that although the recovered NaCl from the stand-alone MSED can restore nearly 60% ion exchange capacity of the exhausted IXs, coupling MSED with DCMD led to minimizing the consumption of fresh NaCl (in the IX regeneration cycle) significantly, the potential application of NOM in agriculture and diminishing the risk of the IX spent brine disposal. In addition, the initial characteristics of the ion permselective membranes were maintained after 24 h of MSED and the transmembrane flux was increased when the feed/hot compartment (in the DCMD stack) was encapsulated on two outer ends with coolant/permeate compartments as a result of less heat loss to the ambient environment.
Phase Formation and Wear Resistance of Carbon-Doped TiZrN Nanocomposite Coatings by Laser Carburization
Authors: Kim Seonghoon , Kim Taewoo , Hong Eunpyo , Jo Ilguk , Kim Jaeyoung , Lee Heesoo
Published: April 2021

Carbon-doped TiZrN nanocomposite coatings were investigated for phase formation and wear behavior. They were prepared by laser carburization using carbon paste, and the thermal energy of the pulsed laser was limited to the range of 20 to 50%. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis revealed that the ratio of carbide (TiC, ZrC) increased as the thermal energy of the laser increased. The sp2/sp3 ratio increased by approximately 16% when the laser thermal energy was raised from 30 to 40%, and the formation of amorphous carbon was confirmed in the carbon-doped TiZrN coatings. As a result of microstructural analysis, the carbon-doped TiZrN nanocomposite was formed by an increase of hybrid bonds in expanded localized carbon clusters. Wear resistance was evaluated using a ball-on-disc tester, which showed that the friction coefficient decreased from 0.74 to 0.11 and the wear rate decreased from 7.63 × 10−6 mm3 (Nm)−1 to 1.26 × 10−6 mm3 (Nm)−1. In particular, the friction coefficient and wear rate improved by 71 and 66%, respectively, owing to the formation of carbon-doped TiZrN nanocomposite with amorphous carbon while the thermal energy was increased from 30 to 40%.
Fracture Mechanical Analysis of Thin-Walled Cylindrical Shells with Cracks
Authors: Yue Feng , Wu Ziyan
Published: April 2021

The fracture mechanical behaviour of thin-walled structures with cracks is highly significant for structural strength design, safety and reliability analysis, and defect evaluation. In this study, the effects of various factors on the fracture parameters, crack initiation angles and plastic zones of thin-walled cylindrical shells with cracks are investigated. First, based on the J-integral and displacement extrapolation methods, the stress intensity factors of thin-walled cylindrical shells with circumferential cracks and compound cracks are studied using linear elastic fracture mechanics, respectively. Second, based on the theory of maximum circumferential tensile stress of compound cracks, the number of singular elements at a crack tip is varied to determine the node of the element corresponding to the maximum circumferential tensile stress, and the initiation angle for a compound crack is predicted. Third, based on the J-integral theory, the size of the plastic zone and J-integral of a thin-walled cylindrical shell with a circumferential crack are analysed, using elastic-plastic fracture mechanics. The results show that the stress in front of a crack tip does not increase after reaching the yield strength and enters the stage of plastic development, and the predicted initiation angle of an oblique crack mainly depends on its original inclination angle. The conclusions have theoretical and engineering significance for the selection of the fracture criteria and determination of the failure modes of thin-walled structures with cracks.