bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of Arterial Hypertension in Kazakhstan: Data from Unified Nationwide Electronic Healthcare System 2014–2019
Authors: Yerdessov Sauran , Kadyrzhanuly Kainar , Sakko Yesbolat , Gusmanov Arnur , Zhakhina Gulnur , Galiyeva Dinara , Bekbossynova Makhabbat , Salustri Alessandro , Gaipov Abduzhappar
Published: February 2022

The in-depth epidemiology of hypertension has not been studied in Kazakhstan (KZ) yet. We aimed to investigate the crude; age and sex standardized prevalence, incidence, and all-cause mortality rate among hypertensive patients in Kazakhstan using a large-scale Unified National Electronic Health System (UNEHS) for the period 2014–2019. Hypertension was defined based on the ICD-10 codes (ICD-code: I10; I11; I12; I13). Of 1,908,419 patients, 1,186,706 (62.18%) were females and 721,713 (37.82%) were males. The majority of the patients (56.3%) were ethnic Kazakhs, 26.6% were Russians, and 16.2% were of other ethnicities. In 2014, the crude rates of prevalence, incidence, and mortality were 3661, 1396.1, and 33.1 per 100,000 population, respectively. The overall prevalence, incidence, and mortality rates among hypertension patients had a gradual increase over the period 2014–2019. The sex and age adjusted rates demonstrate the same trend throughout the entire period. We observed 71% higher risk of crude death in males comparing to females (Hazard ratio (HR): 1.71 [95%CI: 1.69–1.72]); Russian and other ethnicities had 1.56-fold (95%CI: 1.54–1.58 and 1.43-fold (95%CI: 1.41–1.45) higher risk of all-cause death compared to Kazakhs, and the elderly group had the highest risk of death (Hazard ratio (HR): 35.68 [95%CI: 28.11–45.31]) comparing to the younger generation, which remained significant after adjustment to age and sex. Overall, these findings show statistically significant lower survival probability in male patients compared to female, in older patients compared to younger ones, and in patients of Russian and other ethnicities compared to Kazakh.
Epidemiology and Outcome of Pediatric Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest after Traffic Collision in Japan: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Hosomi Sanae , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Sobue Tomotaka , Zha Ling , Kiyohara Kosuke , Oda Jun
Published: February 2022

The epidemiological and clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes of patients with traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCAs) following traffic collisions have not been adequately investigated in Japan. We analyzed the All-Japan Utstein Registry data of 918 pediatric patients aged <20 years with OHCAs following traffic collisions who were resuscitated by bystanders or emergency medical service personnel and were subsequently transported to hospitals between 2013 and 2019. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess factors potentially associated with 1-month survival after OHCA. The 1-month survival rate was 3.3% (30/918), and the rate of neurologically favorable outcomes was 0.7% (60/918). The proportion of 1-month survival of all OHCAs after traffic collision origin did not significantly increase (from 1.9% (3/162) in 2013 to 4.5% (5/111) in 2019), and the adjusted odds ratio (OR) for a 1-year increment was 1.13 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93 to 1.37). In a multivariate analysis, ventricular fibrillation arrests and pulseless electrical activity (PEA) were significant predictors of 1-month outcome after OHCAs due to traffic collision. From a large OHCA registry in Japan, we demonstrated that 1-month survival after OHCAs due to traffic collision origin was approximately 3%, and some children even gained full recovery of neurological function.
Adult-Acquired Flatfoot Deformity: Combined Talonavicular Arthrodesis and Calcaneal Displacement Osteotomy versus Double Arthrodesis
Authors: Fischer Sebastian , Oepping Julia , Altmeppen Jan , Gramlich Yves , Neun Oliver , Manegold Sebastian , Hoffmann Reinhard
Published: February 2022

Background: Adult-acquired flatfoot deformity due to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is one of the most common foot deformities among adults. Hypothesis: Our study aimed to confirm that the combined procedures of calcaneal displacement osteotomy and talonavicular arthrodesis are equivalent to double arthrodesis. Methods: Between 2016 and 2020, 41 patients (13 male and 28 females, mean age of 63 years) were retrospectively enrolled in the comparative study. All deformities were classified into Stages II and III of PTTD, according to Johnson and Strom. All patients underwent isolated bony realignment of the deformity: group A (n = 19) underwent calcaneal displacement osteotomy and talonavicular arthrodesis, and group B (n = 23) underwent double arthrodesis. Measurements from the Foot Function Index-D (FFI-D) and the SF-12 questionnaire were collected, with a comparison of pre- and post-operative radiographs conducted. The mean follow-up period for patients was 3.4 years. Results: The mean FFI-D was 33.9 (group A: 34.5; group B: 33.5), the mean SF-12 physical component summary was 43.13 (group A: 40.9; group B: 44.9), and the mean SF-12 mental component summary was 43.13 (group A: 40.9; group B: 44.9). The clinical data and corrected angles showed no significant intergroup differences. Conclusion: Based on the available data, our study confirmed that the combined procedures of talonavicular arthrodesis and calcaneal shift, with preservation of the subtalar joint, can be considered equivalent to the established double arthrodesis, with no significant differences in terms of clinical and radiological outcomes.
The Link between Fibromyalgia Syndrome and Anger: A Systematic Review Revealing Research Gaps
Authors: Galvez-Sánchez Carmen M. , Reyes del Paso Gustavo A. , Duschek Stefan , Montoro Casandra I.
Published: February 2022

Anger has been associated with increased pain perception, but its specific connection with Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) has not yet been established in an integrated approach. Therefore, the present systematic review focuses on exploring this connection, and based on this connection, delimiting possible gaps in the research, altogether aimed at improving FMS clinical intervention and guiding future research lines. Anger is considered a basic negative emotion that can be divided into two dimensions: anger-in (the tendency to repress anger when it is experienced) and anger-out (the leaning to express anger through verbal or physical means). The current systematic review was performed based on the guidelines of the PRISMA and Cochrane Collaborations. The Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) international database was forehand used to register the review protocol. The quality of chosen articles was assessed and the main limitations and research gaps resulting from each scientific article were discussed. The search included PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The literature search identified 13 studies eligible for the systematic review. Levels of anger-in have been shown to be higher in FMS patients compared to healthy participants, as well as patients suffering from other pain conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis). FMS patients had also showed higher levels of state and trait anxiety, worry and angry rumination than other chronic pain patients. Anger seems to amplify pain especially in women regardless FMS condition but with a particularly greater health-related quality of life´s impact in FMS patients. In spite of the relevance of emotions in the treatment of chronic pain, including FMS, only two studies have proposed intervention programs focus on anger treatment. These two studies have observed a positive reduction in anger levels through mindfulness and a strength training program. In conclusion, anger might be a meaningful therapeutic target in the attenuation of pain sensitivity, and the improvement of the general treatment effects and health-related quality of life in FMS patients. More intervention programs directed to reduce anger and contribute to improve well-being in FMS patients are needed.
Sex-Specific Aspects of Skeletal Muscle Metabolism in the Clinical Context of Intensive Care Unit-Acquired Weakness
Authors: Engelhardt Lilian Jo , Grunow Julius J. , Wollersheim Tobias , Carbon Niklas M. , Balzer Felix , Spranger Joachim , Weber-Carstens Steffen
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: Female sex is considered a risk factor for Intensive Care Unit-Acquired Weakness (ICUAW). The aim is to investigate sex-specific aspects of skeletal muscle metabolism in the context of ICUAW. (2) Methods: This is a sex-specific sub-analysis from two prospectively conducted trials examining skeletal muscle metabolism and advanced muscle activating measures in critical illness. Muscle strength was assessed by Medical Research Council Score. The insulin sensitivity index was analyzed by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic (HE) clamp. Muscular metabolites were studied by microdialysis. M. vastus lateralis biopsies were taken. The molecular analysis included protein degradation pathways. Morphology was assessed by myocyte cross-sectional area (MCSA). Multivariable linear regression models for the effect of sex on outcome parameters were performed. (3) Results: n = 83 (♂n = 57, 68.7%; ♀n = 26, 31.3%) ICU patients were included. ICUAW was present in 81.1%♂ and in 82.4%♀ at first awakening (p = 0.911) and in 59.5%♂ and in 70.6%♀ at ICU discharge (p = 0.432). Insulin sensitivity index was reduced more in women than in men (p = 0.026). Sex was significantly associated with insulin sensitivity index and MCSA of Type IIa fibers in the adjusted regression models. (4) Conclusion: This hypothesis-generating analysis suggests that more pronounced impairments in insulin sensitivity and lower MCSA of Type IIa fibers in critically ill women may be relevant for sex differences in ICUAW.
The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Patient Selection, Surgical Procedures, and Postoperative Complications in a Specialized Dental Implant Clinic
Authors: Feher Balazs , Wieser Cordelia , Lukes Theresa , Ulm Christian , Gruber Reinhard , Kuchler Ulrike
Published: February 2022

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, aerosol-generating procedures, including dental implant treatments, are considered high-risk. With dental implant treatment mostly an elective procedure, we aimed to assess whether the pandemic influenced patient selection, surgical procedures, and postoperative complications. We compared dental implant treatments during (March to December 2020) and before (December 2018 to February 2020) the COVID-19 pandemic based on patient and implant parameters, as well as postoperative complications. For analysis, we used the Chi-squared test with the Holm–Sidak correction for multiple comparisons. The number of implants placed during the COVID-19 pandemic (696 implants in 406 patients, 70 implants per month) was comparable to pre-pandemic levels (1204 implants in 616 patients, 80 implants per month). Regarding patient parameters, there were no significant differences in respiratory (p = 0.69) and cardiovascular conditions (p = 0.06), diabetes (p = 0.69), and smoking (p = 0.68). Regarding implant parameters, there was a significant difference in the distribution of augmentative procedures (no augmentation, guided bone regeneration, and sinus floor elevation, p = 0.01), but no significant differences in the types of edentulous spaces (p = 0.19) and the timing of implant placement (p = 0.52). Regarding complications, there were significantly fewer minor complications (p < 0.001) and early (i.e., before loading) implant failures (p = 0.02) compared with pre-pandemic levels. Our results suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic had no effect on patient selection and only a slight effect on the surgical procedures. However, postoperative complications, including early failures, were significantly less prevalent during the pandemic.
Benefits of Telemonitoring of Pulmonary Function—3-Month Follow-Up of Home Electronic Spirometry in Patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Wasilewska Eliza , Sobierajska-Rek Agnieszka , Małgorzewicz Sylwia , Soliński Mateusz , Jassem Ewa
Published: February 2022

Background: In patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), the respiratory system determines the quality and length of life; therefore, the search for easy and safe everyday monitoring of the pulmonary function is currently extremely important, particularly in the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of a three-month home electronic spirometry (e-spirometry) monitoring of the pulmonary function and strength of respiratory muscles as well as the patients’ benefits from this telemetric program. Methods: Twenty-one boys with DMD (aged 7–22; non-ambulatory-11) received a remote electronic spirometer for home use with a special application dedicated for patients and connected with a doctor platform. Control of the hospital spirometry (forced vital capacity-FVC, forced expiratory volume in 1 second-FEV1, peak expiratory flow-PEF) and respiratory muscle strength (maximal inspiratory-MIP and expiratory pressures-MEP) before and after the three-month monitoring were performed as well telemonitoring benefit survey. Results: A total of 1403 measurements were performed; 15 of the participants were able to achieve correct attempts. There were no differences between the hospital and the home spirometry results as well as between respiratory muscle strength during v1 vs. v2 visits for the whole study group (all parameters p > 0.05); the six participants achieved increased value of FVC during the study period. There was a positive correlation between ΔFVC and the number of assessments during the home spirometry (r = 0.7, p < 0.001). Differences between FVC and MIPcmH2O (r = 0.58; p = 0.01), MEPcmH2O (r = 0.75; p < 0.001) was revealed. The mean general satisfaction rating of the telemonitoring was 4.46/5 (SD 0.66) after one month and 4.91/5 (SD 0.28) after three months. The most reported benefit of the home monitoring was the improvement in breathing (38% of participants after one month, 52% after three months of telemonitoring). Forgetting about the procedures was the most common reason for irregular measurements; the participants reported also increased motivation but less time to perform tests. Conclusions: The study indicates high compliance of the home telemonitoring results with the examination in the hospital. Benefits from home spirometry were visible for all participants; the most important benefit was breathing improvement. The remote home spirometry is usable for everyday monitoring of the pulmonary function in DMD patients as well can be also treated as respiratory muscle training.
Single and Multiple Dose PK–PD Characterization for Carisoprodol. Part I: Pharmacokinetics, Metabolites, and 2C19 Phenotype Influence. Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Calvo Aitana , Alonso Saioa , Prieto Esther , Ascaso-del-Rio Ana , Ortuño Jordi , Fernandez Nieves , Portolés Antonio
Published: February 2022

Carisoprodol was authorised in 1959 without a full pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic (PK–PD) characterisation. We designed a crossover, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial to characterize the PKs of carisoprodol and its main active metabolite, meprobamate, after single (350 mg), multiple (350 mg/8 h, 14 days), and double (700 mg) doses of carisoprodol. Thirteen healthy volunteers were enrolled. After a single (350 mg) dose, the main carisoprodol parameters were (mean ± SD) Cmax: 2580 ± 1214 ng/mL, AUC0–∞: 8072 ± 6303 h·ng/mL, and half-life (T1/2): 2 ± 0.8 h. For meprobamate, the parameters were Cmax: 2181 ± 605 ng/mL and 34,529 ± 7747 h·ng/mL y 9 ± 1.9 h. Different profiles were found for extensive and poor 2C19 metabolizers. After 14 days of treatment (350 mg/8 h) the results for carisoprodol were (mean ± SD) Cmax: 2504 ± 730 ng/mL, AUC0–∞: 7451 ± 3615 h·ng/mL, and T1/2: 2 ± 0.7 h. For meprobamate (a steady state was reached), the parameters were Cmax: 5758 ± 1255 ng/mL and 79,699 ± 17,978 h·ng/mL y 8.7 ± 1.4 h. The study allowed for the full characterization of the pharmacokinetic profile of carisoprodol and meprobamate. Accumulation of meprobamate but not of carisoprodol was evident after 14 days of treatment.
Viscoelastic Hemostatic Assays: A Primer on Legacy and New Generation Devices
Authors: Volod Oksana , Bunch Connor M. , Zackariya Nuha , Moore Ernest E. , Moore Hunter B. , Kwaan Hau C. , Neal Matthew D. , Al-Fadhl Mahmoud D. , Patel Shivani S. , Wiarda Grant , Al-Fadhl Hamid D. , McCoy Max L. , Thomas Anthony V. , Thomas Scott G. , Gillespie Laura , Khan Rashid Z. , Zamlut Mahmud , Kamphues Peter , Fries Dietmar , Walsh Mark M.
Published: February 2022

Viscoelastic hemostatic assay (VHAs) are whole blood point-of-care tests that have become an essential method for assaying hemostatic competence in liver transplantation, cardiac surgery, and most recently, trauma surgery involving hemorrhagic shock. It has taken more than three-quarters of a century of research and clinical application for this technology to become mainstream in these three clinical areas. Within the last decade, the cup and pin legacy devices, such as thromboelastography (TEG® 5000) and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM® delta), have been supplanted not only by cartridge systems (TEG® 6S and ROTEM® sigma), but also by more portable point-of-care bedside testing iterations of these legacy devices (e.g., Sonoclot®, Quantra®, and ClotPro®). Here, the legacy and new generation VHAs are compared on the basis of their unique hemostatic parameters that define contributions of coagulation factors, fibrinogen/fibrin, platelets, and clot lysis as related to the lifespan of a clot. In conclusion, we offer a brief discussion on the meteoric adoption of VHAs across the medical and surgical specialties to address COVID-19-associated coagulopathy.
The Potential Cardiotoxicity of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Nardi Agmon Inbar , Itzhaki Ben Zadok Osnat , Kornowski Ran
Published: February 2022

The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) as a mono- or adjuvant oncologic treatment is rapidly expanding to most fields of cancer. Alongside their efficacy, ICIs carry the risk of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) arising from misguided immune-mediated response to normal tissues. In the cardiovascular system, the cardiac toxicity of ICIs has been primarily related to the development of an acute, immune-mediated myocarditis; beyond this potentially fatal complication, evidence of an increased risk of cardiovascular events and accelerated atherosclerosis is emerging, as well as reports of other cardiovascular adverse events such as arrythmias, Takotsubo-like syndrome and vascular events. The absence of identified risk factors for cardiotoxic complications, specific monitoring strategies or diagnostic tests, pose challenges to the timely recognition and optimal management of such events. The rising numbers of patients being treated with ICIs make this potential cardiotoxic effect one of paramount importance for further investigation and understanding. This review will discuss the most recent data on different cardiotoxic effects of ICIs treatment.
Factors Associated with Hepatitis B Medication Adherence and Persistence among Underserved Chinese and Vietnamese Americans
Authors: Bhimla Aisha , Zhu Lin , Lu Wenyue , Golub Sarit , Enemchukwu Chibuzo , Handorf Elizabeth , Tan Yin , Yeh Ming-Chin , Nguyen Minhhuyen T. , Wang Min Qi , Ma Grace X.
Published: February 2022

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection disproportionately affects Asian Americans in the United States, while this population faces low adherence to HBV treatment. Using the information–motivation–behavioral skills model (IMB), the study aims to examine medication adherence and persistence among Chinese and Vietnamese people with HBV. Methodology: Study participants were recruited between March 2019 and March 2020 and were enrolled through multiple recruitment approaches in the Greater Philadelphia Area and New York City. The study is an assessment of the baseline data on medication adherence, HBV-related knowledge, motivation of HBV medication treatment, self-efficacy about HBV medication treatment, and socioeconomic status. Results: Among 165 participants, 77.6% were Chinese and 22.4% were Vietnamese Americans. HBV-related knowledge/information, motivation, and self-efficacy were all positively associated with having medium/high medication adherence. Multilevel mixed-effects generalized linear regression revealed that living more than 10 years in the U.S. (OR = 4.24; p = 0.028) and greater information–knowledge about HBV (OR = 1.46; p = 0.004) were statistically associated with higher odds of medium/high medication adherence. Moreover, greater HBV-related knowledge/information (OR = 1.49; p = 0.023) and greater motivation towards HBV treatment adherence (OR = 1.10; p = 0.036) were both associated with a higher likelihood of medication persistence. Conclusion: Our findings provided significant implications in designing behavioral interventions focused on self-efficacy, information, and motivation to promote better medication adherence among Asian Americans living with HBV.
Assessing Children ‘At Risk’: Translation and Cross-Cultural Adaptation of the Motor Behavior Checklist (MBC) into Arabic and Pilot Use in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Authors: Efstratopoulou Maria , Elhoweris Hala , Eldib Abeer Arafa , Bonti Eleni
Published: February 2022

Children’s emotional, behavioral, and developmental problems can be properly identified and assessed based on observations from their teachers and parents. The Motor Behavior Checklist (MBC) was designed to assist classroom teachers and Physical Education (PE) teachers in assessing their students’ motor-related behaviors. The instrument has already been successfully translated and culturally adapted into six languages and used in a number of research studies internationally. The present study aimed to develop the Arabic version of the MBC checklist and proceed with the necessary cross-cultural adaptations for the use of the instrument in Arabic speaking countries and especially in United Arab Emirates (UAE) primary schools. The translation and cultural adaptation of the MBC was based on the ten-step process: forward translation of the original instrument; development of a synthesized version, back-translation; linguistic and semantic comparisons; back translators evaluation of divergent items; development of a synthesized version; based on the back translators’ suggestions; clarity assessment of the synthesized version by professionals (teachers); additional assessment of clarity indicators by a focus group of experts; and development of the final version. Results indicated a satisfactory level of agreement between the original and the back-translated versions, while nine items required minor adjustments and two items needed major adaptations and word replacements to clarify their content and be fully adapted into the UAE culture. In the pilot use, UAE teachers confirmed the clarity of the items in an 84% percentage. The final translated version’s overall content was found sufficiently compatible with the original version of the instrument. The study highlights the importance of a rigorous translation process and the process of cultural adaptation.
Investigation on the Lift Force Induced by the Interceptor and Its Affecting Factors: Experimental Study with Captive Model
Authors: Deng Rui , Zhang Zezhen , Luo Fuqiang , Sun Pengnan , Wu Tiecheng
Published: February 2022

An interceptor is an appendage widely used for high-speed planing boats to reduce resistance and modify hull attitude by the lift force-induced, but the relationship between the induced lift force and the factors affecting it are still not clear, especially for the vessels other than the planing hull. In this paper, a model test of a series of models is performed to investigate the lift force induced by an interceptor and the influence of the affecting factors systematically. The lift forces induced by the interceptor are tested in the conditions of different velocities, interceptor heights, angles, and drafts in the towing tank. The effects of each factor and the coupled effects are analyzed. It is found by the experimental results that the lift coefficient of the induce lift force in the present investigation is approximately proportional to the square of the non-dimensional velocity and interceptor height, but the effect of the interceptor height is of a limited extent. The influence of angle and draft on the lift force induced by the interceptor cannot be ignored in the present study. The induced lift force is decreased when the angle of the plate is reduced and is enhanced when the draft is increased.
An Analysis on Hydraulic Loss in a Co-Rotating Bladed Disc Pump
Authors: Heng Yaguang , He Kunjian , Jiang Qifeng , Zhang Weibin , Bois Gérard , Liu Xiaobing
Published: February 2022

Disc pumps rely on the shear force generated by a co-rotating disc to transport the fluid, the interaction between the fluid and impeller is weak, providing such pumps advantages when handling multi-phase flow. In the present study, a loss analysis is presented on a different kind of disc pump that combines both shear and pressure forces using a co-rotating disc pump and radial blades and that is often applied in marine petroleum engineering for mud-lifting. Experimental measurements on the overall pump performance were performed, and the subsequent hydraulic efficiency analysis shows that similarity laws can be applied for this pump. A particular analysis was specifically performed on the impeller and shows that the resulting loss analysis indicates that the increase in the static pressure is small and that the total pressure increase is mainly contributed to by the dynamic pressure change from the inlet to the outlet impeller sections. In addition, an evaluation of the individual loss levels is proposed in the impeller that is based on one-dimensional assumptions. This type of evaluation has never been proposed for present specific TBD pump designs in the available literature. The obtained results showed that the most important loss levels are roughly equally distributed between the incidence effects, inter-blade leakage, and bolts losses in the impeller, and that all together, they can reach 80% of the total impeller losses, while the blade-loading and friction losses are relatively small. The losses downstream of the impeller are significant; thus, a specific volute design that has been adapted for a disc impeller outlet flow pattern must be considered in order to achieve better performance. The present loss analysis was able to predict the corresponding disc pump performance well, achieving a maximum error rate of ±5% for a rather wide flow coefficient range. The proposed method can be considered to be a useful approach for research or for industrial teams who are working on the same kind of geometry by adopting the same data reduction analysis, allowing them to compare their own results with the present ones.
Supporting Predictive Maintenance of a Ship by Analysis of Onboard Measurements
Authors: Liu Shukui , Chen Haoliang , Shang Baoguo , Papanikolaou Apostolos
Published: February 2022

Ship hull and propeller fouling has a severe impact both on fuel costs and on greenhouse gas emission, thus, it is an important subject to consider when developing a maintenance plan to enhance energy efficiency and reduce gas emissions from ships. This paper presents a two-step approach for evaluating the actual propulsive performance of a ship through analyzing continuous onboard measurement. First, the onboard monitored data are corrected for the wind and wave effects using fast and transparent empirical methods. Second, the corrected data are filtered based on hydrodynamic criteria. A case study is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the methodology. Subsequently, the processed data are analyzed by mathematical tools to derive an engine power–rpm curve to represent the actual propulsive performance of the ship. By comparing the derived curve against the nominal curve for engine design, it is possible to identify the deterioration of the ship’s condition, which is the key task in developing the identification capability that is needed in a proactive maintenance procedure. This methodology is expected to support the maritime sector in combating climate change by reducing the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions from ship operations.
Track Pairs Collision Detection with Applications to Ship Collision Risk Assessment
Authors: Shi Jiahui , Liu Zhengjiang
Published: February 2022

The port waterway network plays an important role in the organization and management of port ship traffic. Due to limited ship operations, conflicts, congestion, and safety issues often arise in port waters. Conflicts between ships can be predicted by collision detection between ships. A novel collision detection algorithm for trajectory pairs is proposed by introducing variable time interval variables. In addition, to improve the overall accuracy of trajectory compression and reduce redundant calculation in collision detection, a multi-factor Douglas-Peucker algorithm adapted to ship trajectory compression is proposed with the consideration of speed and turn constraints. The maximum speed difference of the algorithm is increased by 1.5–2.5%, and the average speed difference increased by 2.0–4.5%. Based on the method mentioned above, the risk assessment framework of maritime collision is established and the risk situation of the waters near Ningbo Zhoushan Port is evaluated and analyzed by using ship historical track data.
Seaport Terminals Risks Prioritization Using a Structural Modeling-Based Approach: A Real Case Study
Authors: Dhahri Maryam , Elmsalmi Manel , Aljuaid Awad M. , Hachicha Wafik
Published: February 2022

Port risk management (PRM) during port operations is a current problem that can negatively affect the environment, people, and economic issues. In the literature, there is an enormous amount of research related to supply chain risk management (SCRM) in various areas and with various objectives. However, PRM has not received the same degree of attention. In fact, port terminals are crucial links in most supply chain networks and an important pillar of international trade. Therefore, for better risk mitigation efficiency, a risk assessment and prioritization step are vital. Recently in the literature, researchers have applied prospective methods such as structural analysis methods to risk prioritization in SCRM. The aim of this research is to prioritize various man-made risk variables in PRM using a qualitative structural modeling-based approach, specifically, the MICMAC method (referring to its French acronym: Matrice d’Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliquée à un Classement). An empirical study was conducted to assesses and prioritize risk variables of the seaport terminals of Sfax (Tunisia). The main contributions of the empirical research are twofold. First, to prioritize the key risk variables to define the most critical ones that require immediate intervention. Second, to analyze the structure of the influences between all identified risk variables. The results for the port terminals of Sfax show that the highest-priority risk variables are the manual handling (Ph3), disregard for safety aspects (Ph4), unsafe storage of goods (Inc1), absence of a prevention system and a rescue organization (Inc2), neglect of the regulatory aspects of handling equipment (M1), ignorance of good handling practices during the operation of loading and unloading (Cho2), and inadequate lifting accessories (Cho3). These risk variables must be the subject of urgent risk reduction strategies.
Integrating Short Sea Shipping with Trans-European Transport Networks
Authors: Santos Tiago A. , Fonseca Miguel Â. , Martins Pedro , Soares C. Guedes
Published: February 2022

This paper studies the possibilities of closer integration of short sea shipping, with other components of the Trans-European Transport Networks, shifting a significant share of road freight onto rail corridors and inland waterways. A numerical model of transport networks is used to support the calculation of the main parameters driving transport decisions, for multiple pairs of origin/destination representing statistical regions of the European Union, and for different, alternative intermodal and unimodal transport chains. Results are presented using a geographic information system. This approach is applied in a case study dedicated to the evaluation of the competitiveness of transport chains based on short sea shipping between Portugal and The Netherlands, integrated with other components of Trans-European Transport Networks (rail freight corridors and inland waterways), compared to road haulage-based transport chains. Conclusions are drawn regarding the geographical scope of the relative competitiveness of these transport chains and policy investment insights are presented.
Inadvertent Selection of a Pathogenic Fungus Highlights Areas of Concern in Human Clinical Practices
Authors: Eagan Justin L. , Steffan Breanne N. , Ortiz Sébastien C. , Drott Milton T. , Goldman Gustavo H. , Hull Christina M. , Keller Nancy P. , Bastos Rafael W.
Published: February 2022

In studying the development of tolerance to common hospital cleaners (Oxivir® and CaviCide™) in clinical isolate stocks of the emerging, multidrug-resistant yeast pathogen Candida auris, we selected for a cleaner-tolerant subpopulation of a more common nosocomial pathogen, Candida glabrata. Through the purification of each species and subsequent competition and other analyses, we determined that C. glabrata is capable of readily dominating mixed populations of C. auris and C. glabrata when exposed to hospital cleaners. This result suggests that exposure to antimicrobial compounds can preferentially select for low-level, stress-tolerant fungal pathogens. These findings indicate that clinical disinfection practices could contribute to the selection of tolerant, pathogenic microbes that persist within healthcare settings.
Aspergillus fumigatus—Host Interactions Mediating Airway Wall Remodelling in Asthma
Authors: Namvar Sara , Labram Briony , Rowley Jessica , Herrick Sarah
Published: February 2022

Asthma is a chronic heterogeneous respiratory condition that is mainly associated with sensitivity to airborne agents such as pollen, dust mite products and fungi. Key pathological features include increased airway inflammation and airway wall remodelling. In particular, goblet cell hyperplasia, combined with excess mucus secretion, impairs clearance of the inhaled foreign material. Furthermore, structural changes such as subepithelial fibrosis and increased smooth muscle hypertrophy collectively contribute to deteriorating airway function and possibility of exacerbations. Current pharmacological therapies focused on airway wall remodelling are limited, and as such, are an area of unmet clinical need. Sensitisation to the fungus, Aspergillus fumigatus, is associated with enhanced asthma severity, bronchiectasis, and hospitalisation. How Aspergillus fumigatus may drive airway structural changes is unclear, although recent evidence points to a central role of the airway epithelium. This review provides an overview of the airway pathology in patients with asthma and fungal sensitisation, summarises proposed airway epithelial cell–fungal interactions and discusses the initiation of a tissue remodelling response. Related findings from in vivo animal models are included given the limited analysis of airway pathology in patients. Lastly, an important role for Aspergillus fumigatus-derived proteases in triggering a cascade of damage-repair events through upregulation of airway epithelial-derived factors is proposed.
Optimization of Carotenoids Production from Rhodotorula sp. Strain ATL72 for Enhancing Its Biotechnological Applications
Authors: Dyaa Amira , Soliman Hoda , Abdelrazak Ahmed , Samra Bassem N. , Khojah Ebtihal , Ahmed Atef F. , El-Esawi Mohamed A. , Elsayed Ashraf
Published: February 2022

Rhodotorula yeasts which are known as carotenogenic yeasts have a great industrial value due to their ability to produce carotenoids. In particular, the isolated yeast Rhodotorula sp. (strain ATL72) has been reported to be a promising producer of high concentrations of carotenoids. A combination of central composite design (CCD) and Plackett–Burman (PB) design was used to optimize carotenoids produced by this yeast. The optimum production of carotenoids was completed when the yeast was grown in a production medium composed of 3.7 g/L malt extract, 7.7 g/L fructose, 9 g/L urea, 35 g/L NaCl, and 1 g/L yeast extract at 27.5 °C, pH 6.7, and 180 rpm. Two batch runs in 1 L and 7 L bioreactors were conducted which increased the productivity of carotenoid concentration from 21.5 mg/L after 98 h of incubation at the level of the shake flask to 229.9 mg/L after 47 h of incubation at the level of 7 L bioreactor. The carotenoid pigment was extracted in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), acetone, petroleum ether, and sodium chloride, and subsequently identified and characterized using UV-visible scanning, thin layer chromatography, and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
Retrospective Analysis of Patients with Gynaecological Uterine Sarcomas in a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Ruiz-Minaya Maria , Mendizabal-Vicente Elsa , Vasquez-Jimenez Wenceslao , Perez-Burrel Laura , Aracil-Moreno Irene , Agra-Pujol Carolina , Bernal-Claverol Mireia , Martínez-Bernal Beatriz L. , Muñoz-Fernández Mercedes , Morote-Gonzalez Melanie , Ortega Miguel A. , Lizarraga-Bonelli Santiago , De Leon-Luis Juan A.
Published: February 2022

Uterine sarcomas are rare and heterogeneous malignancies accounting for 1% to 3% of all gynaecological tumours. There are many histological subtypes recognised, including leiomyosarcomas, endometrial stromal sarcoma, and uterine carcinosarcoma, although the latest has been recently discarded in this group. Despite its low incidence, these types of cancer currently entail multiple challenges, either in diagnostics or clinical management, with a poor prognosis associated. The present work aimed to complete a comparative analysis of the different histological subtypes based on the clinicopathological characteristics of our population, the therapeutic characteristics, and associated prognosis in 161 patients treated in our centre during the period between 1985 and 2020. Moreover, a systematic review grouped a total of 2211 patients with a diagnosis of uterine sarcoma from 19 articles published in 16 countries from 2002 to 2021 was performed, all with retrospective analyses. Our results showed that apart from uterine carcinosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma is the most frequent subtype of uterine sarcoma, with unique clinical, demographic, and survival parameters. To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review conducted in this field and, thus, it shows the difficulties of collecting a significant number of patients per year, a valid reason why multicentre or national registries are recommended to allow a more exhaustive analysis of this pathology.
Intricacies of Moral Geographies of Land Restitution in Estonia
Authors: Printsmann Anu , Nugin Raili , Palang Hannes
Published: February 2022

This article employs moral geographies in analysing the land restitution process and outcome. Moral geographies investigate how abstract values, deliberations and judgements are translated into everyday life and, consequently, to landscape. The dynamics of moral geographies are analysed by transdisciplinary research methods using mainly qualitative data, such as documents, media and literature, but also spatial and statistical data. Land restitution in Estonia had its start in 1991, instigated by the heat of national reawakening, aiming to reverse the past 50 years of Soviet ‘wrongdoings’. This task proved to be not so straightforward. The initial heydays got entangled not only in all subsequent matters of practicalities, but also with social and spatial justice. To date, land reform has been completed on 99% of Estonia’s territory. For over 30 years, the land restitution has been shaped by global changes as well as local particularities and, in the process, moral ideas have been transformed. Thus, though landscape reflects moral categories and ideology, these two are interdependent: landscape can, in turn, mould moral ideals in certain ways.
The Impact of Urbanization on Land: A Biophysical-Based Assessment of Ecosystem Services Loss Supported by Remote Sensed Indicators
Authors: Assennato Francesca , Smiraglia Daniela , Cavalli Alice , Congedo Luca , Giuliani Chiara , Riitano Nicola , Strollo Andrea , Munafò Michele
Published: February 2022

Urbanization and related land consumption are one of the main causes of ecosystem services loss. This is especially the case for soil-related services affecting ecosystem functions and limiting accessibility to natural resources. Satellite remote sensing and environmental databases enable in-depth analysis of urban expansion and land changes, which can be used to monitor trends in the provision of ecosystem services. This work aims to describe a multilayered approach to the assessment of biophysical loss of ecosystem services flows in Italy caused by an increase in land consumption in the period 2012–2020. The results show higher losses in wood production, carbon storage, hydrological regime regulation, and pollination in the northern regions of Italy, as well as in some southern regions, such as Campania and Apulia. Habitat quality loss is widespread throughout Italy, whereas crop production loss varies on the basis of the locations in which it occurs and the crop types involved. Loss of arable land and fodder production mainly occurs in northern regions, whereas southern regions have experienced a drop in permanent crop production. This study highlights the importance of using integrated data and methodologies for well-founded approaches, with a view to gaining a thorough understanding of ecosystem services-related processes and the changes connected therewith.
Comparison of Image Endmember- and Object-Based Classification of Very-High-Spatial-Resolution Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Narrow-Band Images for Mapping Riparian Forests and Other Land Covers
Authors: Filippi Anthony M. , Güneralp İnci , Castillo Cesar R. , Ma Andong , Paulus Gernot , Anders Karl-Heinrich
Published: February 2022

Riparian forests are critical for carbon storage, biodiversity, and river water quality. There has been an increasing use of very-high-spatial-resolution (VHR) unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)-based remote sensing for riparian forest mapping. However, for improved riparian forest/zone monitoring, restoration, and management, an enhanced understanding of the accuracy of different classification methods for mapping riparian forests and other land covers at high thematic resolution is necessary. Research that compares classification efficacies of endmember- and object-based methods applied to VHR (e.g., UAS) images is limited. Using the Sequential Maximum Angle Convex Cone (SMACC) endmember extraction algorithm (EEA) jointly with the Spectral Angle Mapper (SAM) classifier, and a separate multiresolution segmentation/object-based classification method, we map riparian forests/land covers and compare the classification accuracies accrued via the application of these two approaches to narrow-band, VHR UAS orthoimages collected over two river reaches/riparian areas in Austria. We assess the effect of pixel size on classification accuracy, with 7 and 20 cm pixels, and evaluate performance across multiple dates. Our findings show that the object-based classification accuracies are markedly higher than those of the endmember-based approach, where the former generally have overall accuracies of >85%. Poor endmember-based classification accuracies are likely due to the very small pixel sizes, as well as the large number of classes, and the relatively small number of bands used. Object-based classification in this context provides for effective riparian forest/zone monitoring and management.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Languages in 2021
Authors:   Languages Editorial Office
Published: February 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Influence of Systemic Therapy on the Expression and Activity of Selected STAT Proteins in Prostate Cancer Tissue
Authors: Ebersbach Celina , Beier Alicia-Marie K. , Hönscheid Pia , Sperling Christian , Jöhrens Korinna , Baretton Gustavo B. , Thomas Christian , Sommer Ulrich , Borkowetz Angelika , Erb Holger H. H.
Published: February 2022

Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT) proteins have been identified as drivers of prostate cancer (PCa) progression and development of aggressive castration-resistant phenotypes. In particular, STAT3, 5, and 6 have been linked to resistance to androgen receptor inhibition and metastasis in in vitro and in vivo models. This descriptive study aimed to validate these preclinical data in tissue obtained from patients with PCa before and while under androgen-deprivation therapy. Therefore, STAT3, 5, and 6 expressions and activity were assessed by immunohistochemistry. The data revealed that STAT3 and 5 changed in PCa. However, there was no relationship between expression and survival. Moreover, due to the heterogeneous nature of PCa, the preclinical results could not be transferred congruently to the patient’s material. A pilot study with a longitudinal patient cohort could also show this heterogeneous influence of systemic therapy on STAT3, 5, and 6 expressions and activity. Even if the main mechanisms were validated, these data demonstrate the urge for better patient-near preclinical models. Therefore, these data reflect the need for investigations of STAT proteins in a longitudinal patient cohort to identify factors responsible for the diverse influence of system therapy on STAT expression.