bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Not All Robotic-assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty Are the Same
Authors: Siddiqi Ahmed , Mont Michael A. , Krebs Viktor E. , Piuzzi Nicolas S.
Published: November 2020

Because value in healthcare has shifted to a measurement of quality relative to the cost, a greater emphasis exists on improving clinical and functional outcomes and patient satisfaction. Despite advances in implant design, surgical technique, and postoperative rehabilitation, multiple studies demonstrate that nearly 20% of patients remain dissatisfied with their overall outcomes after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Because implant positioning, alignment, and equal soft-tissue balance are critical for a successful TKA, malalignment in the coronal, sagittal, and rotational planes continue to increase failure rates and cause poor clinical outcomes. Robotic-assisted TKA has gained momentum within the past 10 years to better control surgical variables by mitigating technical errors caused by insecure cutting guides and imprecise bone cuts. Contemporary robotic platforms have evolved along with our ability to collect high-quality patient-reported outcome measures data, and this combination is proving the clinical effectiveness. This comprehensive review investigates the advent of robotic-assisted TKA including advantages, disadvantages, historical, and commercially available newer generation systems, clinical outcomes, and cost analysis to better understand the potential added value of this technology.
Anxiety and Depression Impact on Inhospital Complications and Outcomes After Total Knee and Hip Arthroplasty: A Propensity Score-Weighted Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Zalikha Abdul Kareem , Karabon Patrick , Hajj Hussein Inaya , El-Othmani Mouhanad M.
Published: November 2020

Introduction:

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of anxiety and depression on immediate inhospital outcomes and complications after total joint arthroplasty of the hip (total hip arthroplasty [THA]) and knee (total knee arthroplasty [TKA]) using a large national registry.

Methods:

Data from the National Inpatient Sample was used to identify all patients undergoing TKA and THA between 2006 and 2015. Patients were divided in four groups based on a concomitant diagnosis of depression, anxiety, depression plus anxiety, and neither depression nor anxiety (control group). Propensity score analysis was performed to determine whether these psychiatric comorbidities were risk factors for inhospital economic, disposition, and complication outcomes.

Results:

A total of 5,901,057 TKAs and 2,838,742 THAs were performed in our study period. The relative percentage of patients with anxiety and depression undergoing these procedures markedly increased over time. All three psychiatric comorbidity groups were markedly associated with an increased risk of postoperative anemia and were markedly associated with other inhospital complications compared with the control group. Notable associations were also found between the study groups and total charges, length of stay, and disposition.

Discussion:

Anxiety and depression are major risk factors for inhospital complications and are markedly associated with economic and disposition outcomes after TKA and THA. The relative proportion of patients with anxiety and depression undergoing these procedures is rapidly increasing. It is critical for clinicians to remain aware of these risk factors, and attention should be directed on the development of standardized perioperative optimization protocols and medication management for these patients.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective study
Should Insulin-dependent Diabetic Patients Be Screened for Malnutrition Before Total Joint Arthroplasty? A Cohort at Risk
Authors: Schneider Andrew M. , Brown Nicholas M.
Published: November 2020

Introduction:

The association of malnutrition in the morbidly obese cohort has led to recommendations for preoperative screening before total joint arthroplasty (TJA). However, despite the connection between diabetes and poor nutrition, preoperative screening in the diabetic cohort has not been closely examined. This study compared malnutrition risk between diabetic patients and morbidly obese patients undergoing TJA and investigated the association of malnutrition on 30-day postoperative TJA outcomes in the diabetic cohort.

Methods:

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried, and primary TJA patients were identified for inclusion. Patients were stratified by body mass index and diabetes, and outcomes were reported as two composite groups: complications and infections in the 30-day postoperative period. Univariate and multivariate regressions were used for the analysis.

Results:

Patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) were at a high risk of being malnourished in both the morbidly obese and nonmorbidly obese populations (frequencies of 11.9% and 9.9%, respectively). Patients with IDDM, but without morbid obesity, were 1.5x more often malnourished than morbidly obese patients without diabetes mellitus (9.9% versus 6.4%, respectively, P < 0.001). In a multivariate analysis among patients with co-occurring diabetes and malnutrition, patients with IDDM were at greatest risk for postoperative complications and infection (odds ratio 2.081 [1.652, 2.621]; P < 0.001 and odds ratio 1.894 [1.231, 2.913]; P = 0.004, respectively).

Discussion:

Patients with IDDM are at high risk for malnutrition, and increased vigilance should be maintained in this cohort before TJA to optimize outcomes. Future studies should further investigate the utility of preoperative malnutrition screening in this cohort.
MRI Characteristics of Adverse Local Tissue Reactions Associated With Intraoperative Tissue Damage and Poor Revision Surgery Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Xiong Liang , Smith Evan J. , Klemt Christian , Barghi Ameen , Padmanabha Anand , Kwon Young-Min
Published: November 2020

Background:

Metal artifact reductions sequence (MARS) MRI has been established as a cross-sectional imaging modality for diagnosis of adverse local tissue reaction (ALTR). This study aims to evaluate the current literature regarding the characteristics of MARS MRI associated with intraoperative tissue necrosis and postoperative complications in patients undergoing revision THA because of ALTR.

Methods:

We systematically searched the literature that included reporting MRI characteristics of ALTR in failed THA and their correlation with intraoperative findings and postoperative outcomes.

Results:

A total of 617 studies were assessed, and 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. Synovial wall thickness correlated with increasing ALVAL grade, however, weakly with tissue necrosis. Synovial composition of mixed or solid features and the presence of abductor disruption correlated with complications and tissue necrosis. Tissue edema was a poor predictor of aseptic lymphocyte-dominant vasculitis-associated lesion (ALVAL) grade or tissue necrosis.

Discussion:

MARS MRI synovial composition including mixed and solid features and the presence of abductor disruption provide the best prognostic characteristics associated with intraoperative soft-tissue necrosis and revision surgery outcome. These prognostic characteristics on MRI may assist surgeons with improved criteria for intervention and preoperative patient counseling.
The Readability of Online Educational Materials for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome
Authors: Kiapour Ata M. , Otoukesh Babak , Hosseinzadeh Shayan
Published: November 2020

Although the readability of online materials has been thoroughly studied across different orthopaedic surgery disorders, inadequacy in information exists regarding the readability of the websites pertaining to femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). Given its high prevalence and the importance of providing appropriate online education materials in its prognosis, the primary aim of this study was to assess the readability of web-based patient education materials regarding this disease. “Femoroacetabular impingement,” “FAI,” and “hip impingement” were used as search queries in this study. Readability was evaluated based on five established algorithms, and the readability of contents was compared by website type and also search query. In this study of 59 unique websites on FAI, using five different validated readability formulas, we demonstrated that none of the top 30 webpages were written at the recommended reading level. They were found through three different search queries on the three most used search engines. Current FAI online education materials accessible to patients are written above the recommended levels, and it seems that to improve equity and accessibility in healthcare, universities, hospitals, and healthcare professional societies have a responsibility to ensure that the online materials are provided at more appropriate levels. Early detection and treatment of FAI play a key role in preventing the progression to hip osteoarthritis. Thus, providing appropriate online education materials is of great importance in this prevention by increasing patients' understanding of the disease and the advantages and disadvantages of the treatment options.

Level of Evidence:

Level III
Inequality of Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases Across Various Wealth Groups of India: Results from Latest Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Akif Mustafa , Salman Ansari
Published: November 2020

Background: Non-communicable diseases are the major contributor to mortality and morbidity all over the world including India. About 60% (5.87 million) of all deaths in India are attributed to NCDs. In the present study we have tried to analyze the socioeconomic inequality in the prevalence of the selected four NCDs (Diabetes, Hypertension, Thyroid disorder and Obesity) among the Indian population while paying special attention to urban rural differentials.

Data and Methods: The data of NFHS-4 (2015-16), were used for the present study. To find out the level of inequalities concentration curve and its associated concentration index (CI) were calculated for the selected NCDs. For further clarification odds ratios were calculated using binary logistic regression.

Results: Socioeconomic inequalities were found in the prevalence of all the four selected NCDs. According to the values of CI, highest inequality was in the prevalence of obesity (CI=0.44, p=0.00) and lowest for hypertension (CI=0.06, p=0.00). The values of CI and odds ratios for rural and urban areas are depicting that in both the areas the NCDs are disproportionately concentrated among the rich population.

Conclusion: There is a need of potential target based approach to fight against NCDs keeping the high risk groups in mind.
Cyclic testing of a brick wall strengthened with a plaster coating of glass reinforced cement
Authors: Hutchison D. L. , Yong P. M. F.
Published: November 2020

A 2.000 m long by 2.400 m high brick wall was coated on both sides with a 14 mm thickness of glass reinforced cement (GRC) and tested by cyclic loading applied as in-plane shear. Additional reinforcement at wall ends served to ensure a shear mode of failure in the wall and the enhancement of total strength resulting from this reinforcement was determined by finite element analysis. Although the wall demonstrated only limited ductile characteristicsf the consistency of maximum strength obtained during cycling in this range was note-worthy. The cost of the GRC coating was estimated, and a value of dependable shear strength is recommended for walls of aspect ratio less than 0.5.
Identification of the critical control points structure of the aircraft handling process
Authors: Kozłowski Michał , Kruk Anna , Stelmach Anna
Published: November 2020

Ground handling is a complex process that is regulated by national and international law, and involves a number of safety risks. Basing on the ISO 31010 study, the HACCP risk analysis method is adequate for identifying and analyzing critical control points in the process. It enables the analysis of hazards and the indication of critical points of ground handling, where hazards affecting the safety of air may occur. For the purposes of this article, B737 has been selected for the study, the aircraft type that is commonly used by many air carriers. Defining measurable safety objectives and punctuality of the process allows defining the structure of critical ground handling control points and mutual relations between these points, so that the risk analysis is subject to the whole process rather than its results. The use of the HACCP method has allowed us to determine the assumptions of corrective actions and criteria for verifying the correctness of the operation of the ground handling process.
Analysis of possible interferences in A-CDM information flow
Authors: Okulicz Malwina , Skorupski Jacek
Published: November 2020

Growth in air traffic and increasing number of processed data along with it constitutes a major issue for effectiveness and safety of implementation of airport operations. In the Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) which is regarded as an attempt to solve this problem, it is assumed that the improvement of the situation could be achieved by the better usage of resources and improved predictability of events. In this article analysis of possible interferences in A-CDM information flow was carried out. It aimed at searching for the most critical places in the structure of information flow, essential for appropriate implementation of operational processes at the airport. The information flow scheme between A-CDM partners was developed and then interferences applying Bow-Tie method were identified. The conducted analysis resulted in the catalogue of possible causes of interferences and effects triggered by them. This research shows that effectiveness of implementation of A-CDM might be strictly dependable on spotting the most important places generating interferences in the information flow and will allow the effective prevention of its consequences.
Electromagnetic environment on extensive rail areas and the process of using electronic safety systems
Authors: Białek Kamil , Paś Jacek
Published: November 2020

The article presents the results of research electric and magnetic fields in the field of higher frequencies, which are produced by electronic security systems in large logistics areas. The paper also presents the background of the electromagnetic environment. Distorted electromagnetic environment can interfere with the operation of electrical and electronic equipment that are used in the railway area. Particular attention has been paid to the impact of electromagnetic interference on selected electronic security systems.
The comparative assessment of the passenger cars with combustion petrol and diesel engines, taking into consideration the situation on the polish car market
Authors: Gaj Jacek , Lozia Zbigniew
Published: November 2020

According to the title, the article compares passenger cars produced in versions with SIE engines (spark ignition engines) and CIE engines (compression ignition engines), taking into account the situation on the Polish automotive market. A group of 25 selected vehicle pairs equipped with the SIE and CIE engine versions has been presented. The measurable comparative criteria have been defined. The results of the comparison were presented in the form of graphs with a commentary. The situation on the Polish automotive market was also assessed in the context of a comparison of both types of vehicles. The final conclusions close the article.
Nomenclature of modes of the ERTMS/ETCS on-board equipment in conditions of the polish railway network
Authors: Gruba Łukasz , Kochan Andrzej , Koper Emilia , Ilczuk Przemysław
Published: November 2020

This article refers to the nomenclature of modes of ERTMS/ETCS on-board equipment. The article presents descriptions of modes, the naming of specific modes used in Polish literature and the proposal of Polish naming of each of them. Moreover, article draws attention to the need of unifying the nomenclature and propagation of knowledge about the modes of the ERTMS/ETCS on-board equipment.
Conceptual ship design intendent for European inland waterway shipping
Authors: Ignalewski Wojciech , Kaup Magdalena
Published: November 2020

The article presents the stages of conceptual design of inland vessels intended for navigation on international waterways of the European Union, which, connection with the Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council (EU) 2016/1629 of 14 September 2016 laying down technical requirements for inland waterway vessels, they form the basis for the development of new concepts of inland watercraft. It presents, among others, block diagram of the course of the design process, the axiomatic model of the inland ship and the use of innovative materials in the construction of inland waterway vessels. The purpose of the article was to explain and organize the basic principles of construction and design of inland vessels in accordance with modern requirements and guidelines.
Automatic train operation – requirements analysis
Authors: Kochan Andrzej , Koper Emilia , Wontorski Paweł
Published: November 2020

This article discusses the analysis of the process of automatic train operation. The scope of the analyzed process is not narrowed to the train itself. It covers the tasks carried out at the various operational levels of the system responsible for operating the railway traffic. The authors present the tasks in the field of railway traffic management and railway traffic control and train operation, carried respectively by the dispatcher, signalman and the train driver, which can be performed automatically, i.e. without human intervention.
The effect of the adaptive devices parameters on driving
Authors: Malawko Piotr , Szczepański Tomasz , Świderski Andrzej
Published: November 2020

The development of a new technologies has led to a differentiation between design requirements and human physical abilities. In difficult conditions, human performance decreases and the probability of accidents and injuries increases. As a consequence, part of the driver attention is directed to overcoming unnecessary difficulties. Human-vehicle-environment system must meet certain ergonomic conditions to be able to operate effectively. The article discusses issues related to the using in vehicles selected adaptations to the needs of drivers with disabilities. Therefore, an additional element in the form of specialized adaptation is added to the above system. Attention was also drawn to the lack of legal regulations regarding proper location considering various types of motoric dysfunctions. The next step of the presented considerations is the research review regarding the impact of adaptive devices on driving and road safety. In the literature on the subject there are many questions related to ergonomics: whether such devices, their functionality or its lack can have a significant impact on convenience and thus for safety while driving. Problems arising while driving a car have been identified. The authors sought parameters which determine the discomfort of the driver that appears when using the adaptation. The considerations included in the article can be used to determine the assumptions of device design, assembly and proper use.
Analysis of internal noise of public transport buses
Authors: Orczyk Małgorzata
Published: November 2020

The article presents the results of internal noise study of selected public transport buses. Measurements of noise level were carried out while driving on a selected route undertaken as part of the bus timetable. To assess the noise inside the buses, a measuring set consisting of 10 microphones placed at a height of 1.6 m from the floor surface along the passage between the seats and the PULSE system from Brüel&Kjar were used. The aim of the study was to assess the noise distribution along buses and to compare it in different types of buses.
Selected methods of measuring longitudinal stresses in continuous welded rail track
Authors: Stolarczyk Łukasz , Kardas-Cinal Ewa
Published: November 2020

High temperatures in the summer season lead to significant increase in compressive forces in railway rails. Significant stresses in rails caused by an increased temperature and dynamic loads from the rolling stock can reach values that can overcame the lateral resistance of the continuous welded rail (CWR) track. The result of overcoming the lateral resistance of the CWR track is the buckling phenomenon. The buckling of the track is a threat to railway traffic safety due to its sudden nature. The article presents various methods for measuring longitudinal forces in the CWR track, including the method using the Polish production extensometer. The use of this device for measurements of longitudinal forces has been accepted as optimal due to the ease of assembly, measurement accuracy and the ability to perform measurements without the need to stop trains. In the summary, the usefulness of the measurement method using the extensometer and its significance in the course of further research are evaluated.
Neural modeling used for risk assessment in the operation of transport means
Authors: Świderski Andrzej , Dębicka Ewa , Jóźwiak Arkadiusz , Mitkow Szymon
Published: November 2020

The article presents the problem of the use of mathematical modeling based on artificial neural networks for risk assessment in the processes of transport means operation. The issues of vehicle operation, risk theory and its evaluation as well as neural modeling have been described. The results of own research, supported by an IT tool, are presented. The research was conducted using real expert risk assessment carried out in the last 10 years at the transport and production-service enterprises as part of the certification processes carried out at the Military University of Technology and the Motor Transport Institute.
Fleet profiling as element of vehicle operation
Authors: Wawrzyński Marcin
Published: November 2020

The article presents modifications of the maintenance strategy using telematics tools to monitor vehicle operation. It was proposed, in descriptive and formal terms, profiling of the fleet enabling the selection of sets of objects with similar utility potential. It gives the opportunity to plan operation and organization of service inspections in accordance with the principle "not too early, not too late".
Railway traffics and operational conditions of automatic train operations
Authors: Żurkowski Andrzej
Published: November 2020

In recent years, there has been intense technical development of autonomous road vehicles, as well as the increasingly widespread putting them into operation. Therefore, the question arises about the possibility of accelerating technological solutions in the area of fully automatic operation of trains on railway lines. The article analyzes the possibilities of such a solution to replace or assist the driver in the aspect of technical and operational requirements and organization of transport. The conclusions form a contribution to the discussions in this area conducted on the initiative of domestic rolling stock manufacturers and the scientific community as part of the prepared research and implementation projects.
Traffic calming in historical urban areas. Case study: Poznan
Authors: Bieńczak Maciej , Fierek Szymon , Kiciński Marcin , Merkisz-Guranowska Agnieszka , Zmuda-Trzebiatowski Paweł
Published: November 2020

The article focuses on issues related to traffic calming in historical urban areas. The work presents changes that were proposed in Poznań. These proposals have been implemented in the PTV Visum simulation environment. The conducted simulations allowed to formulate conclusions regarding changes in distribution of traffic distribution and the modal split of transport tasks. Additional recommendations were also presented.
River transport in transport policy in Poland and European Union
Authors: Christowa Czesława
Published: November 2020

Transport policy is one of the most important factors affecting transport systems in individual countries and in Europe as a whole. This article analyzes and evaluates the impact of the transport policy of Poland and that of the European Union on the development of river transport in Poland. The study focuses on the most important political and strategic documents in force in the European Union and in the Republic of Poland in 2001-2017, containing transport system concepts, including plans of long-term construction and modernization of transport infrastructure that partly involve river transport. It has been assumed that river transport should be a priority in the Polish transport system due to its technical, operational and environmental characteristics, safety, low external costs, increased competitiveness of sea ports and the socio-economic development of regions located along rivers. The European Union has been promoting the development of inland waterway, rail and intermodal modes of transport for years, aiming at the reduction of the share of road freight carriage that adversely affects the environment and intensifies congestions. EU transport policy makers have found it necesary to amend the proportions and to integrate sea, inland waterway and rail transport. The European Commission has recommended to develop river transport for its advantages, such as low environmental impact, safety and energy efficiency. The article analyzes and evaluates the conditions, in terms of institutions, legislation and infrastructure, for the development of inland shipping in Poland.
Autonomous vehicles: organizational scenarios and their threats and opportunities to transportation sustainability
Authors: Jaroszyński Michał
Published: November 2020

The ongoing multi-dimensional debate on autonomous vehicles revolves around two scenarios describing their operating scheme within the urban transportation systems: 1) enhanced personal cars 2) demand-response shared mobility networks. This paper covers selected organizational and planning aspects of these scenarios and evaluates their potential impacts on the crucial elements of the sustainable transportation agenda. The analysis indicates that traffic automation could address many of the sustainability goals; however, it also reveals several possible threats to the policy, which could be avoided with an appropriate coordination of planning efforts, implementation of certain regulations, and adequate adaptation of transportation systems to the new technology. The paper concludes with several recommendations for further research and possible policy developments.
Some of the issue connected with the public transport ecology
Authors: Jóźwiak Arkadiusz , Guciewski Łukasz
Published: November 2020

The article presents ecological aspects in road public transport. There were described main sources of smog and the percentage of air pollution (produced by road vehicles) was also showed. Details connected with the Euro emission standards (concerning buses used in public transport) were characterized and types of bus engines were also described. At the end of the article conception of current buses exchange was contained.
Strategic context of public transport bus exchange with conventional propulsion to electric buses process
Authors: Krawiec Stanisław , Markusik Sylwester , Żochowska Renata , Karoń Grzegorz , Krawiec Krzysztof , Sobota Aleksander , Kłos Marcin
Published: November 2020

Conversion of the bus fleet with conventional propulsion (Diesel or hybrid engines) to electric drive is a process that many cities in Poland face. Decision-makers, who influence these activities have to define an exchange strategy at the first step, defining min. time spent on exchange, the course of this process and financial resources needed at a specific time. Before making such a decision, they can be supported by various tools that will include the results of the currently realized PLATON project. The aim of this project is to define the process of planning the conversion of the existing fleet of conventional buses in public transport to 100% share of electric buses, and the implementation of this process as an IT tool, widely available in the Internet. The article describes the factors that may affect the exchange process in five areas: political, economic, ecological, social and technical-organizational ones. These factors are the components of the model that maps the fleet conversion process.
Performing a road transport service on the example of a transportation and forwarding company
Authors: Markowska Katarzyna , Jamka Michał
Published: November 2020

Road transport is one of the most popular forms of traveling. In Poland it has a dominant role; however, there are initiatives for its gradual reduction. Performing a road transport service enables the transportation of freight directly from the sender to the receiver. Performing a road transport service consists in planning the route and suitable means of transport, checking the quality of the cargo, checking the time, delivering the cargo and handling financial matters. It is inherently linked to features of customer service, such as: time, cost, quality and suitable transport documentation.
Methods supporting intermodal transport development in selected European countries in 1990-2016
Authors: Mindur Leszek
Published: November 2020

The article is an attempt to indicate directions to promote alternative modes of transport in Europe and Poland in order to reduce a dynamic growth of road transport. The European Commission’s recommendations regarding intermodal transport development have been described. The structure and volume of intermodal services have been presented. The basic measures affecting the development of intermodal transport in Poland have been indicated. Basing on experiences of selected West European countries, general conclusions have been drawn relating to the intermodal transport development in Poland.
Intermodal transport in Poland in 2001–2017 and factors affecting its prospective development
Authors: Mindur Maciej , Mindur Leszek
Published: November 2020

The article features an analysis of intermodal transport market in Poland in the period of the highest growth of operations, i.e. in 2010–2017. The main players of the Polish intermodal transport market have bee characterized. The number of services regarding transport performance, freight volume, number of TEU and the share of particular participating entities have been analysed. Basing on the results of conducted research it can be concluded that there are both favourable external conditions and prospects for the intermodal transport development in Poland. The development of this potential depends on taking measures proposed by the authors focused on eliminating existing barriers and so called support measures.
Method of selection of topological indices to evaluate the structure of road and street network
Authors: Soczówka Piotr , Żochowska Renata
Published: November 2020

When analysing the topology of a transportation network it is possible to gain information about its density or connectivity. Both network density and connectivity may be expressed by different indices. It is worth noticing that these indices often are very similar to each other and therefore it seems unnecessary to use various indices. In this paper a method of choosing topological indices to evaluate both density and connectivity (measures which later may be used to evaluate accessibility of a network) has been proposed. Additionally, calculation of all indices has been performed for one of polish cities.
The influence of synergetic planning on the agility of logistics processes in a factory
Authors: Stryhunivska Olena , Karkula Marek
Published: November 2020

The return on long-term investments depends on the adaptability of logistic systems. To meet the market requirements logistics processes must be planned in a flexible and versatile method with the use of mutual synergy. The article was based on own research focused on the application of synergistic planning in connection with the digitalization of planning processes in a factory. Furthermore, the design of manufacturing and logistics processes must be associated with planning objects. Synergistic planning synchronizes the phases of production planning with the stages of object planning and describes the factory life cycle from preparation to planning to the exploitation of the facility.
Life cycle cost assessment of urban buses equipped with conventional and alternative propulsion drive
Authors: Szumska Emilia , Sendek-Matysiak Ewelina , Pawełczyk Marek
Published: November 2020

The number of urban buses equipped with alternative propulsion drives is increasing in Polish public transport companies. The subsidy from European Union funds and governmental programs contribute to increasing number of environmentally friendly means of transport. The life cycle cost (LCC) methodology can provide an understanding of economic aspects of urban bus equipped in different types of propulsion. The LCC analysis delivers the sum of costs related to the acquisition, operation, maintenance and disposal of each bus technology system. The aim of this study is to estimate and compare the life cycle cost of conventional bus, hybrid bus, and CNG powered bus. The paper also provide the total air pollutant emissions through the lifetime of each urban analyzed bus.
Risk assessment of travelling by Wroclaw public transport taking into account safety and logistics aspects
Authors: Tubis Agnieszka , Poskart Anna , Rydlewski Mateusz
Published: November 2020

Relationship between functional and also efficient working of urban transport and totality of social as well as economic dimension of life at urbanized area shows huge impact of urban transport at public life. It is one of the reasons that its prosperity is an object of interest of passengers, haulage contractors and persons responsible for management at the agglomeration. Because of the causes given above authors decided to choose as an object of studies the risk associated to travelling with urban communication by the residents of chosen agglomeration. The assessment of this risk includes aspects of safe travel as well as logistic support provided to passengers. Both of this factors determine the quality of service given by collective communication system. The purpose of the article is to present results of researches made through surveys collected in Wroclaw among passengers of public communication.
Intravesical Instillation of Sodium Hyaluronate (Cystistat®) for the Treatment of Patients with Radiation Cystitis-Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Allameh Farzad , Basiri Abbas , Ghiasy Saleh , Javadi Atefeh , Hojjati Seyyed Ali , Rahavian Amir Hossein
Published: November 2020

Background: Radiotherapy (RT) is a choice to manage pelvic organ malignancies that can affect bladder; therefore, it causes radiation cystitis with some bothering urinary symptoms and decreasing the patient’s quality of life. Intravesical hyaluronic acid (HA) is an agent with promising results in some studies for cystitis, and Cystistat is a derivative of hyaluronic acid. Objectives: This clinical trial aimed at evaluating the effects of intravesical instillation of Cystistat on symptoms of radiation cystitis and quality of life (QOL). Methods: A total of 58 patients with radiation cystitis were randomized in 2 groups (case: 30, control: 28). One group received intravesical Cystistat, the other received normal saline weekly for up to 4 weeks and then monthly for up to 2 months. Hematuria, Visual Analog scale (VAS) and QOL based on King’s Health questionnaire were compared before and 3, 6 and 9 months after intravesical instillation. Results: The mean age of the patients was 63.93 ± 10.89 years old. The mean of each sub-category of QOL and total score of QOL, as well as, VAS score were significantly improved in comparison to the control group at each time of follow-ups (P < 0.05). Hematuria was significantly different in the 3rd, 6th and 9th month of follow-ups (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Findings showed that patients with radiation cystitis could significantly benefit from intravesical instillation of HA, their hematuria would be successfully resolved rather than control group in addition to lowering the VAS score, so their QOL would be improved.
Territorial Instability and the Right to a Livable Locality
Authors: Capisani Simona ,   Center for Environmental Philosophy, The University of North Texas
Published: November 2020

Territory loss and uninhabitability characterize the current environmental background conditions of the international state system. Such conditions present pressing moral questions about our obligations to protect those who are displaced by anthropogenic climate change. By virtue of our participation in the territorial state system, understood as a social practice, we have principled grounds to address some of the consequences of the uninhabitability conditions brought on by climate change. By assuming territorial instability and employing a practice-based method of justification we can identify a fundamental, basic right protected under the state system—the right to a livable locality—which grounds a moral obligation to protect against climate change-induced displacement. Assuming territorial instability and uninhabitability compels us to recognize that the causes generating climate-displacement are not merely natural but rather deeply political and that displacement is a foreseeable failure that results because of the state system’s organizational structure.
Cartesian Circles and the Analytic Method
Authors: Feeney Thomas ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: November 2020

The apparently circular arguments in Descartes’s Meditations should be read as analytic arguments, as Descartes himself suggested. This both explains and excuses the appearance of circularity. Analysis “digs out” what is already present in the meditator’s mind but not yet “expressly known” (Letter to Voetius). Once this is achieved, the meditator may take the result of analysis as an epistemic starting point independent of the original argument. That is, analytic arguments may be reversed to yield demonstrative proofs that follow an already worked-out order of ideas. The “Cartesian Circle,” for example, is circular only when Descartes’s original analytic argument is mistaken for the demonstration that it enables. This approach to Cartesian Circles is unlike the standard approach, which attempts to show that Descartes’s original arguments do work as demonstrations after all.
From in vitro towards in situ: structure‐based investigation of ABC exporters by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Bordignon Enrica , Seeger Markus A. , Galazzo Laura , Meier Gianmarco
Published: November 2020

ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) exporters have been studied now for more than four decades, and recent structural investigation has produced a large number of protein database entries. Yet, important questions about how ABC exporters function at the molecular level remain debated, such as which are the molecular recognition hotspots and the allosteric couplings dynamically regulating the communication between the catalytic cycle and the export of substrates. This conundrum mainly arises from technical limitations confining all research to in vitro analysis of ABC transporters in detergent solutions or embedded in membrane‐mimicking environments. Therefore, a largely unanswered question is how ABC exporters operate in situ, namely in the native membrane context of a metabolically active cell. This review focuses on novel mechanistic insights into type I ABC exporters gained through a unique combination of structure determination, biochemical characterization, generation of conformation‐specific nanobodies/sybodies and double electron–electron resonance.
Monte Carlo simulation of 6‐MV dynamic wave VMAT deliveries by Vero4DRT linear accelerator using EGSnrc moving sources
Authors: Rostamzadeh Maryam , Ishihara Yoshitomo , Nakamura Mitsuhiro , Popescu I. Antoniu , Mestrovic Ante , Gete Ermias , Fedrigo Roberto , Bergman Alanah Mary
Published: November 2020

The commissioning and benchmark of a Monte Carlo (MC) model of the 6‐MV Brainlab‐Mitsubishi Vero4DRT linear accelerator for the purpose of quality assurance of clinical dynamic wave arc (DWA) treatment plans is reported. Open‐source MC applications based on EGSnrc particle transport codes are used to simulate the medical linear accelerator head components. Complex radiotherapy irradiations can be simulated in a single MC run using a shared library format combined with BEAMnrc “source20.” Electron energy tuning is achieved by comparing measured vs simulated percentage depth doses (PDDs) for MLC‐defined field sizes in a water phantom. Electron spot size tuning is achieved by comparing measured and simulated inplane and crossplane beam profiles. DWA treatment plans generated from RayStation (RaySearch) treatment planning system (TPS) are simulated on voxelized (2.5 mm3) patient CT datasets. Planning target volume (PTV) and organs at risk (OAR) dose–volume histograms (DVHs) are compared to TPS‐calculated doses for clinically deliverable dynamic volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) trajectories. MC simulations with an electron beam energy of 5.9 MeV and spot size FWHM of 1.9 mm had the closest agreement with measurement. DWA beam deliveries simulated on patient CT datasets results in DVH agreement with TPS‐calculated doses. PTV coverage agreed within 0.1% and OAR max doses (to 0.035 cc volume) agreed within 1 Gy. This MC model can be used as an independent dose calculation from the TPS and as a quality assurance tool for complex, dynamic radiotherapy treatment deliveries. Full patient CT treatment simulations are performed in a single Monte Carlo run in 23 min. Simulations are run in parallel using the Condor High‐Throughput Computing software1 on a cluster of eight servers. Each server has two physical processors (Intel Xeon CPU E5‐2650 0 @2.00 GHz), with 8 cores per CPU and two threads per core for 256 calculation nodes.
Neuropsychiatric comorbidities in Huntington’s and Parkinson’s Disease: A United States claims database analysis
Authors: Ishihara Lianna , Oliveri David , Wild Edward J.
Published: November 2020

Objective

Huntington’s disease is a rare, genetic, neurodegenerative disease characterized by a triad of cognitive, behavioral, and motor symptoms. The condition gradually results in increasing disability, loss of independence, and ultimately death. Our objective was to use United States claims data (which offer valuable insight into the natural history of disease) to compare the prevalent comorbidities of people with Huntington’s disease against matched controls with Parkinson’s disease or with no major neurodegenerative diseases (general population controls). We also assess medication use in people with Huntington’s disease.

Methods

This was a retrospective, observational study using data from the IBM MarketScan® Databases. Cases and controls were matched 1:1, and comorbidities were analyzed in each group during 2017. Medications were also assessed in the Huntington’s disease cohort. Eligible cases had ≥ 2 diagnostic codes for Huntington’s disease; controls had ≥ 2 codes for Parkinson’s disease (with no record of Huntington’s disease), or, for general population controls, no record of Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or dementia.

Results

A total of 587 matched individuals were assessed in each cohort. Depression and anxiety were more common in Huntington’s disease versus Parkinson’s disease (odds ratios: 1.51 and 1.16, respectively). Other conditions more common in Huntington’s disease included dementia, communication/speech problems, dysphagia, and falls. The use of antidepressant (59.9%) and antipsychotic (39.5%) medications was frequent among Huntington’s disease cases.

Interpretation

These data highlight the prevalence of psychiatric, cognitive, communication, swallowing, and mobility problems in people with Huntington’s disease, underscoring the need for holistic expert care of these individuals.
OIG finds $17 million in improper costs in HRSA substance use grants
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2020

In 2017, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) awarded $200.5 million in Access Increases in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (AIMS) grants to health centers nationwide. Last week, the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) found that 67 of the sampled 100 health centers did not use their AIMS grants properly. On the basis of the sample, the OIG estimated that 454 of 665 health centers did not use their AIMS grant funding in accordance with federal requirements and grant terms. The OIG estimated that centers charged unallowable costs totaling nearly $6 million and improperly allocated costs totaling $10.9 million to their AIMS grants that could have been spent on AIMS‐related purposes.
Abnormal Wave Propagation in Tilted Linear‐Crossing Metamaterials
Authors: Guo Zhiwei , Jiang Haitao , Chen Hong
Published: November 2020

The propagation properties of electromagnetic waves depend on media dispersion in momentum space, which can be characterized using isofrequency contours (IFCs). Normal linear‐crossing metamaterials (NLCMMs), which undergo a new type of topological transition between two kinds of hyperbolic media, are attracting attention because of their potential as a new avenue for controlling light propagation and verifying unusual phenomena involving zero‐index and hyperbolic media. Herein, the rotation of the optical axis is treated as a new degree of freedom and a tilted linear‐crossing metamaterial (TLCMM) is theoretically proposed. Upon rotating the optical axis angle such that it is equal to the cone angle, it is found that this special TLCMM has the shape of a type‐III Dirac cone, in condensed matter physics. Boundary conditions and the causality law are used to reveal that electromagnetic waves in this critical TLCMM can achieve abnormal refraction without reflection and filtering. Moreover, these phenomena are observed experimentally in a planar circuit‐based system. The results regarding the manipulation of electromagnetic waves may enable their use in planar‐integrated photonics, including for directional propagation, cloaking, and switching.
Synthesis of Metallocene Analogues of the Phenethylamine and Tetrahydroisoquinoline Scaffolds via Regioselective Ring Opening of 2‐Aryl‐N‐sulfonyl Aziridines
Authors: González‐Pelayo Silvia , Bernardo Olaya , Borge Javier , López Luis A.
Published: November 2020

The Lewis (or Brønsted) acid‐catalyzed reaction of 2‐aryl‐N‐sulfonyl aziridines with ferrocene and ruthenocene provided new amino‐functionalized metallocene derivatives arising from a regioselective ring opening of the aziridine. The functionalized metallocene derivatives available by this methodology are suitable precursors for the stereoselective synthesis of metallocene analogues of the relevant tetrahydroisoquinoline motif by a Pictet‐Spengler type reaction. These isoquinoline analogues are also accessible by a TfOH‐catalyzed three‐component reaction of 2‐aryl‐N‐sulfonyl aziridines, ferrocene (or ruthenocene) and formaldehyde.

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