bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Exercise Training on Quality of Life, Symptoms, and Functional Status in Advanced-Stage Lung Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nguyen Tena , Tracy Katharine , Ullah Asad , Karim Nagla Abdel
Published: June 2023

Advanced-stage lung cancer (LC) causes significant morbidity and impacts patients’ quality of life (QoL). Exercise has been proven to be safe, feasible, and beneficial for symptom reduction and QoL improvement in many types of cancers, but research is limited in advanced-stage LC patients. This systematic review evaluates the effect of exercise interventions on the symptoms and QoL in patients with advanced-stage LC. Twelve prospective studies (744 participants) were included, evaluating different combinations of exercises and training such as aerobics, tai chi, strength, inspiratory muscle training, and relaxation. Studies found outcomes including but not limited to improved QoL, symptom burden, psychosocial health, functional status, and physical function. The results of this review support that exercise is safe and feasible with evidence supporting improved QoL and symptom mitigation. Integration of exercise should be considered in the individualized management of advanced-stage LC patients under the guidance of their healthcare providers.
Design and Preparation of Anti-Reflection Nanoarray Structure on the Surface of Space Solar Cell Glass Cover
Authors: Zhang Guanglu , Huang Jindong , Wang Luoshu , Geng Zhenbo , Zhang Dequan , Liu Juncheng
Published: June 2023

Space solar cell glass covers require high radiation resistance and wide-spectrum high light transmittance. The existing research on the preparation of thin films or special optical structures on the surface of solar cells rarely involves systematic research and the precise control of the high transmittance structural parameters of specific spectral bands by glass covers. Nanoarray structures were designed and constructed on high-purity quartz glass covers, achieving high anti-reflection within the 350–1100 nm range, the high energy part of the solar spectrum on Mars, regardless of the preparation of antireflective film and its radiation resistance. First, G-Solver software package was used to establish a nanoarray structure model according to the equivalent medium theory, and the effects of structural parameters such as the grating period, grating depth, and duty cycle on the glass cover transmittance were investigated. The results show that when the grating period is 50–200 nm, the transmittance ranges from 97.8% to 99.9%. When the grating period further increases from 300 nm, the lowest point of the transmittance spectrum moves to the longwave direction, and the transmittance from 350 nm to the lowest transmittance point significantly reduces. The optimal grating depth is 500 nm for a 300 nm grating period, the transmittance at 350 nm reaches 88.91%, and the average transmittance is 98.23%. When the period is 300 nm and the depth is 500 nm, the optimal duty cycle is 0.67, the transmittance at 350 nm reaches 96.52%, and the average transmittance is 99.23%. Nanoarray structures were constructed on the glass covers with nanoimprint and plasma etching, then modified with atomic layer deposition (ALD) to adjust their depth and duty cycle. The influence rules of the grating period, depth, and duty cycle on the cover transmittance from the experimental results are basically consistent with those from the simulation calculation. The nanoarray structure increases the average transmittance within 350–1100 nm of the glass cover by an average of 2.02% and the peak transmittance by 2.66%. The research results and experimental methods of this study have application value and promotion prospects for improving the photoelectric conversion efficiency of space solar cells and ground solar cells.
Beamsteering-Aware Power Allocation for Cache-Assisted NOMA mmWave Vehicular Networks
Authors: Cao Wei , Gu Jinyuan , Gu Xiaohui , Zhang Guoan
Published: June 2023

Cache-enabled networks with multiple access (NOMA) integration have been shown to decrease wireless network traffic congestion and content delivery latency. This work investigates optimal power control in cache-assisted NOMA millimeter-wave (mmWave) vehicular networks, where mmWave channels experience double-Nakagami fading and the mmWave beamforming is subjected to beamsteering errors. We aim to optimize vehicular quality of service while maintaining fairness among vehicles, through the maximization of successful signal decoding probability for paired vehicles. A comprehensive analysis is carried out to understand the decoding success probabilities under various caching scenarios, leading to the development of optimal power allocation strategies for diverse caching conditions. Moreover, an optimal power allocation is proposed for the single-antenna case, for exploiting the cached data as side information to cancel interference. The robustness of our proposed scheme against variations in beamforming orientation is assessed by studying the influence of beamsteering errors. Numerical results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed cache-assisted NOMA scheme in enhancing cache utility and NOMA efficiency, while underscoring the performance gains achievable with larger cache sizes.
Analysis and Design of the High Current Rising Rate Hybrid DC Current Limiting Circuit Breaker
Authors: Lv Zhiyong , Wang Xiangjun , Zhuang Jinwu , Liu Luhui , Yuan Zhifang , Li Siguang , Wu Jin
Published: June 2023

To solve the problem of the high rising rate and large peak value of the expected current of the short-circuit current in marine DC power system faults, a hybrid DC current limiting circuit breaker scheme based on a high-speed electromagnetic repulsion mechanism is proposed. A parameter selection model is constructed by comprehensively considering the short-time withstand of the thyristor, the volume of the commutation circuit, and capacitor energy, and the optimal value of the commutation circuit parameters at a certain voltage level is obtained. The finite element mathematical model of the high-speed electromagnetic repulsion mechanism is established by coupling the electromagnetic force field, which enables the deformation process of the mechanism under the condition of high acceleration to be considered. The von Mises yield criterion is adopted as the mechanical boundary condition in the design of a high-speed electromagnetic repulsion mechanism, which solves the problem of the long inherent time of opening. The experiment platform is built, and the experiment under the fault condition with a current rising rate of 20 A/μs is completed. The arcing time, commutation time, zero-voltage recovery time, and contact movement characteristics are obtained, which meet the design requirements, verify the effectiveness of the analysis, and lay a solid foundation for further research and development of the current limiting circuit breakers for medium voltage DC systems.
A Novel Fuzzy DBNet for Medical Image Segmentation
Authors: Chin Chiun-Li , Lin Jun-Cheng , Li Chieh-Yu , Sun Tzu-Yu , Chen Ting , Lai Yan-Ming , Huang Pei-Chen , Chang Sheng-Wen , Sharma Alok Kumar
Published: June 2023

When doctors are fatigued, they often make diagnostic errors. Similarly, pharmacists may also make mistakes in dispensing medication. Therefore, object segmentation plays a vital role in many healthcare-related areas, such as symptom analysis in biomedical imaging and drug classification. However, many traditional deep-learning algorithms use a single view of an image for segmentation or classification. When the image is blurry or incomplete, these algorithms fail to segment the pathological area or the shape of the drugs accurately, which can then affect subsequent treatment plans. Consequently, we propose the Fuzzy DBNet, which combines the dual butterfly network and the fuzzy ASPP in a deep-learning network and processes images from both sides of an object simultaneously. Our experiments used multi-category pill and lung X-ray datasets for training. The average Dice coefficient of our proposed model reached 95.05% in multi-pill segmentation and 97.05% in lung segmentation. The results showed that our proposed model outperformed other state-of-the-art networks in both applications, demonstrating that our model can use multiple views of an image to obtain image segmentation or identification.
Policy-Based Spam Detection of Tweets Dataset
Authors: Dar Momna , Iqbal Faiza , Latif Rabia , Altaf Ayesha , Jamail Nor Shahida Mohd
Published: June 2023

Spam communications from spam ads and social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are increasing, making spam detection more popular. Many languages are used for spam review identification, including Chinese, Urdu, Roman Urdu, English, Turkish, etc.; however, there are fewer high-quality datasets available for Urdu. This is mainly because Urdu is less extensively used on social media networks such as Twitter, making it harder to collect huge volumes of relevant data. This paper investigates policy-based Urdu tweet spam detection. This study aims to collect over 1,100,000 real-time tweets from multiple users. The dataset is carefully filtered to comply with Twitter’s 100-tweet-per-hour limit. For data collection, the snscrape library is utilized, which is equipped with an API for accessing various attributes such as username, URL, and tweet content. Then, a machine learning pipeline consisting of TF-IDF, Count Vectorizer, and the following machine learning classifiers: multinomial naïve Bayes, support vector classifier RBF, logical regression, and BERT, are developed. Based on Twitter policy standards, feature extraction is performed, and the dataset is separated into training and testing sets for spam analysis. Experimental results show that the logistic regression classifier has achieved the highest accuracy, with an F1-score of 0.70 and an accuracy of 99.55%. The findings of the study show the effectiveness of policy-based spam detection in Urdu tweets using machine learning and BERT layer models and contribute to the development of a robust Urdu language social media spam detection method.
European LIFE Projects Dedicated to Ecological Restoration in Mediterranean and Black Sea Coastal Lagoons
Authors: De Wit Rutger , Boutin Nathalie
Published: June 2023

This paper discusses how ecological restoration has been pursued through projects financed by L’Instrument Financier pour l’Environnement (LIFE) of the European Commission in Mediterranean and Black Sea coastal lagoon sites affiliated with the Natura 2000 network. While the LIFE programme started in 1992, the first project focusing on ecological restoration in a coastal lagoon setting in this eco-region was attributed in 1995. In total, 50% (27) of the 54 LIFE projects in the Mediterranean and Black Sea coastal lagoons comprised a worksite on ecological restoration. Eighteen finalized projects, all realized after 2008, have been sufficiently documented for our analysis. The ecological restoration works included (i) removing solid waste and alien invasive species, (ii) re-building lagoons, (iii) creating islets for bird colonies, (iv) restoring the hydrodynamics of the lagoons, and (v) restoring and protecting vegetation. The latter includes submerged aquatic vegetation in the lagoons, halophytes on tidal flats and in fringing salt marshes, freshwater marsh plants, and dune vegetation. Abandoned salt works (Salinas), originally created within the coastal lagoons or on their shoreline, represent significant areas that can be managed for conservation or restoration. Coastal lagoons are transitional waters, and successful restoration of water quality and aquatic communities must include the concept of the aquatic continuum. Combating eutrophication requires managing the watersheds of the lagoons to drastically decrease nutrient loadings. Unfortunately, these issues have only been marginally addressed by the LIFE projects, as they were too often limited by the perimeter of the Natura 2000 sites. In principle, the Water Framework Directive takes care of these issues and, according to an integrative vision, links them with the protected Natura 2000 sites. In practice, however, the LIFE projects and the water policies in the member states still suffer from sectorial approaches.
Color Characterization of Bordeaux Red Wines Produced without Added Sulfites
Authors: Pelonnier-Magimel Edouard , Chira Kléopatra , Teissèdre Pierre-Louis , Jourdes Michaël , Barbe Jean-Christophe
Published: June 2023

Nowadays, the development of naturalness as a concept is illustrated in the oenological field by the development of wine produced with lower inputs, sometimes even without any addition of SO2 throughout the winemaking process, up to the bottling stage. Despite the increase in the offer of these wines, they remain poorly explored in the literature and require characterization. This study was developed to evaluate the color of Bordeaux red wines without SO2 addition using colorimetric and polymeric pigments analysis. From a batch of commercial Bordeaux red wines with and without SO2 addition, and experimental wines produced from homogenous grapes according to different winemaking processes, colorimetric analyses (CIELab and color intensity (CI)) revealed a large difference in wine color depending on the presence or absence of SO2. Indeed, wines without SO2 were significantly darker and presented with a deeper purplish color. According to these observations, polymeric pigments were quantified using UPLC-DAD/ESI QTof, and a higher concentration of polymeric pigments bound by the ethylidene bridge was observed in wines without SO2. This correlated with differences observed for CIELab and CI. Finally, a comparison with polymeric tannins bound by ethylidene bridge was made and revealed that no differences were observed between wines with and without added SO2. This underlines the affinity difference between tannins and anthocyanins to react with acetaldehyde to form ethylidene bridges.
The Effects of Yoghurt Acid Whey Marination on Quality Parameters of Pork and Chicken Meat
Authors: Karageorgou Agori , Paveli Anastasia , Goliomytis Michael , Theodorou Georgios , Politis Ioannis , Simitzis Panagiotis
Published: June 2023

Large amounts of yoghurt acid whey (YAW) are annually generated as a result of Greek-style yoghurt production, which poses a great hazard to the environment. In terms of sustainability, YAW application in the meat industry appears as a great alternative since meat marination with natural solutions is a practice that continuously gains ground due to its positive effects on meat sensory attributes. The aim of the present study was to determine the quality characteristics and oxidative status of pork and chicken meat after their marination in yoghurt acid whey. Forty samples per meat type were randomly assigned into five groups: CON, without YAW marination; YAW1 and YAW3, in which meat was marinated at 4 °C and a pH of 4.5 for 15 and 10 h, respectively; or YAW2 and YAW4, in which meat was handled as in the YAW1 and YAW3 group, respectively, while hesperidin at 2 g/L was also incorporated into the marinade. As shown, meat shear force values were decreased in pork but not in chicken meat samples. Meat pH values were also generally decreased, while lightness was increased in raw but not in cooked meat samples as an effect of marination. Moreover, meat oxidative stability was improved to a greater extent in chicken than in pork meat. In order to find the ideal marination period for pork meat, we further immersed it into YAW for 5 h. However, this treatment affected neither meat tenderness and the other quality properties nor meat oxidation rates. In general, hesperidin addition did not have an additional or side effect on the quality traits of pork and chicken meat. As it can be concluded, pork meat marination in YAW for 10–15 h improves tenderness, but 5 h of marination does not. On the other hand, the tenderness of chicken meat was not affected, but its oxidative stability was greatly improved after remaining in the YAW marinade for 10–15 h.
Determination of Physicochemical, Textural, and Sensory Properties of Date-Based Sports Energy Gel
Authors: Baroyi Syahrul Anis Hazwani Mohd , Yusof Yus Aniza , Ghazali Nashratul Shera Mohamad , Al-Awaadh Alhussein M. , Kadota Kazunori , Mustafa Shuhaimi , Abu Saad Hazizi , Shah Nor Nadiah Abdul Karim , Fikry Mohammad
Published: June 2023

Applying energy supplements in gel form may circumvent gastric discomfort and thus it is a practical alternative. The main objective of this investigation was to develop date-based sports energy gels consisting of highly nutritious ingredients such as black seed (Nigella sativa L.) extract and honey. Three date cultivars (Sukkary, Medjool, and Safawi) were used and characterized for their physical and mechanical properties. The sports energy gels were prepared with addition of xanthan gum (0.5% w/w) as the gelling agent. The newly developed date-based sports energy gels were then analysed for proximate composition, pH level, colour, viscosity, and texture profile analysis (TPA). A sensory test was also conducted with 10 panellists who analysed the appearance, texture, odour, sweetness, and overall acceptability of the gel using a hedonic scale. The results showed that different types of date cultivars affect the physical and mechanical properties of the new developed gels. The outputs of the sensory evaluation revealed that the date-based sports energy gel prepared from Medjool received the highest mean score, followed closely by those prepared from Safawi and Sukkary, indicating that, overall, all three cultivars are acceptable to consumers, but the date-based sports energy gel prepared from Medjool is the most preferred one.
Neuroticism and Psychological Stress in Patients Suffering Oral Lichen Planus: Research Evidence of Psycho-Stomatology?
Authors: Gaitán-Cepeda Luis Alberto , Rivera-Reza Diana Ivette , Villanueva-Vilchis María del Carmen
Published: June 2023

Psychosocial factors influence the development, exacerbation, or aggravation of some oral diseases. However, the possible relationship between personality traits, affective disorders, and psychological stress in oral diseases, and their impact on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), has not been fully clarified. The aim of the present study was to determine the association of neuroticism and stress with the presence of oral lichen planus (OLP), and to discover whether or not these factors impact OHRQoL. This is a case-control study matched for age and sex. The case group (OLP group) was composed of 20 patients diagnosed with OLP, while 20 people with a diagnosis of lesions not associated with stress formed the control group. Three instruments were used: the Holmes–Rahe Social Readjustment Scale, the Five Factor Personality Model, and the OHIP-49. Neuroticism obtained a score of 25.5 (±5.4) in the OLP group, which was higher than the control group value (21.7) (±5.1) (p = 0.03). The OLP group showed a worse quality of life (p < 0.05); the most affected dimensions were psychological discomfort and physical disability. It is important to include a psychological profile to establish a comprehensive treatment for these patients. We propose the recognition of a new area of clinical oral medicine: psycho-stomatology.
Diagnosing Systemic Disorders with AI Algorithms Based on Ocular Images
Authors: Li Huimin , Cao Jing , Grzybowski Andrzej , Jin Kai , Lou Lixia , Ye Juan
Published: June 2023

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI), especially the state-of-the-art deep learning frameworks, has begun a silent revolution in all medical subfields, including ophthalmology. Due to their specific microvascular and neural structures, the eyes are anatomically associated with the rest of the body. Hence, ocular image-based AI technology may be a useful alternative or additional screening strategy for systemic diseases, especially where resources are scarce. This review summarizes the current applications of AI related to the prediction of systemic diseases from multimodal ocular images, including cardiovascular diseases, dementia, chronic kidney diseases, and anemia. Finally, we also discuss the current predicaments and future directions of these applications.
Building Evidence for Principles to Guide the Development of Products for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Extreme Low Literacy—A Product Development Tool
Authors: Squiers Linda , Lynch Molly M. , Holt Sidney L. , Rivell Aileen , Walker Kathleen , Robison Stacy , Mitchell Elizabeth W. , Flores Alina L.
Published: June 2023

This article presented a new product development tool for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). People with IDD who also have extreme low literacy (ELL) have unique communication needs; public health communicators often face challenges developing effective communication materials for this audience. To support CDC communication specialists with the development of communication products for adults with IDD/ELL, CDC, with its partners RTI International and CommunicateHealth, created a product development tool for this audience through literature review, expert input, and interviews with adults with IDD/ELL and caregivers of adults with IDD/ELL. To build evidence around the principles described in the tool, RTI conducted interviewer-administered surveys with 100 caregivers who support people with IDD/ELL. During the interviews, we presented caregivers with stimuli (portions of a communication product) that either did or did not apply a single principle and asked which would be easier for the person they support to understand. Across all 14 principles tested, the caregiver respondents indicated that the principle-based version would be easier for the person they support to understand compared with the non-principle-based version(s). These findings provide additional evidence to support the principles included in CDC’s Tool for Developing Products for People with IDD/ELL.
Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology of Circadian and Circannual Rhythms in Migraine: A Narrative Review
Authors: Imai Noboru
Published: June 2023

Migraine—a primary headache—has circadian and circannual rhythms in the onset of attacks. The circadian and circannual rhythms involve the hypothalamus, which is strongly associated with pain processing in migraines. Moreover, the role of melatonin in circadian rhythms has been implied in the pathophysiology of migraines. However, the prophylactic effect of melatonin in migraines is controversial. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) has recently attracted attention in the pathophysiology and treatment of migraines. Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP)—a neuropeptide identical to CGRP—is a potential therapeutic target after CGRP. PACAP is involved in the regulation of circadian entrainment to light. This review provides an overview of circadian and circannual rhythms in the hypothalamus and describes the relationship between migraines and the molecular and cellular neurobiology of circadian and circannual rhythms. Furthermore, the potential clinical applications of PACAP are presented.
The Disruptive Force of Real-World Evidence
Authors: Schmitt-Egenolf Marcus
Published: June 2023

Evidence-based medicine was in the past primarily based on the (meta-)analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) [...]
Left Bundle Branch Area Pacing and Atrioventricular Node Ablation in a Single-Procedure Approach for Elderly Patients with Symptomatic Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Rijks Jesse H. J. , Lankveld Theo , Manusama Randolph , Broers Bernard , Stipdonk Antonius M. W. van , Chaldoupi Sevasti Maria , Bekke Rachel M. A. ter , Schotten Ulrich , Linz Dominik , Luermans Justin G. L. M. , Vernooy Kevin
Published: June 2023

Background: Implantation of a permanent pacemaker and atrioventricular (AV) node ablation (pace-and-ablate) is an established approach for rate and symptom control in elderly patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF). Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) is a physiological pacing strategy that might overcome right ventricular pacing-induced dyssynchrony. In this study, the feasibility and safety of performing LBBAP and AV node ablation in a single procedure in the elderly was investigated. Methods: Consecutive patients with symptomatic AF referred for pace-and-ablate underwent the treatment in a single procedure. Data on procedure-related complications and lead stability were collected at regular follow-up at one day, ten days and six weeks after the procedure and continued every six months thereafter. Results: 25 patients (mean age 79.2 ± 4.2 years) were included and underwent successful LBBAP. In 22 (88%) patients, AV node ablation and LBBAP were performed in the same procedure. AV node ablation was postponed in two patients due to lead-stability concerns and in one patient on their own request. No complications related to the single-procedure approach were observed with no lead-stability issues at follow-up. Conclusions: LBBAP combined with AV node ablation in a single procedure is feasible and safe in elderly patients with symptomatic AF.
The Incidence of IgG4-Related and Inflammatory Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Is Rare in a 101 Patient Cohort
Authors: Nackenhorst Maja Carina , Kapalla Marvin , Weidle Simon , Kirchhoff Felix , Zschäpitz David , Sieber Sabine , Reeps Christian , Eckstein Hans-Henning , Schneider Heike , Thaler Markus , Moog Philipp , Busch Albert , Sachs Nadja
Published: June 2023

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are the most frequent aortic dilation, with considerable morbidity and mortality. Inflammatory (infl) and IgG4-positive AAAs represent specific subtypes of unclear incidence and clinical significance. Here, histologic and serologic analyses with retrospective clinical data acquisition are investigated via detailed histology, including morphologic (HE, EvG: inflammatory subtype, angiogenesis, and fibrosis) and immunhistochemic analyses (IgG and IgG4). In addition, complement factors C3/C4 and immunoglobulins IgG, IgG2, IgG4 and IgE were measured in serum samples and clinical data uses patients’ metrics, as well as through semi-automated morphometric analysis (diameter, volume, angulation and vessel tortuosity). A total of 101 eligible patients showed five (5%) IgG4 positive (all scored 1) and seven (7%) inflammatory AAAs. An increased degree of inflammation was seen in IgG4 positive and inflAAA, respectively. However, serologic analysis revealed no increased levels of IgG or IgG4. The operative procedure time was not different for those cases and the short-term clinical outcomes were equal for the entire AAA cohort. Overall, the incidence of inflammatory and IgG4-positive AAA samples seems very low based on histologic and serum analyses. Both entities must be considered distinct disease phenotypes. Short-term operative outcomes were not different for both sub-cohorts.
Acromion and Distal Clavicle Grafts for Arthroscopic Glenoid Reconstruction
Authors: Zhang Jeffrey A. , Lam Patrick , Beretov Julia , Murrell George A. C.
Published: June 2023

Background: We intended to determine if an acromion or distal clavicle bone graft could restore large glenoid defects using two novel, screw-free graft fixation techniques. Methods: Twenty-four sawbone shoulder models were divided into four groups (n = 6 per group) according to fixation technique and bone graft: (1) modified buckle-down technique with clavicle graft, (2) modified buckle-down technique with acromion graft, (3) cross-link technique with acromion graft, (4) cross-link technique with clavicle graft. Testing was performed sequentially in (1) intact models, (2) after creation of a 30% by-width glenoid defect and (3) after repair. The shoulder joint was translated anteriorly, and glenohumeral contact pressures and load were measured to quantify the biomechanical stability. Results: Maximum contact pressures were restored to 42–56% of intact glenoid using acromion and clavicle grafts with novel fixation techniques. Acromion grafts attained higher maximum contact pressures than clavicle grafts in all groups. Peak translational forces increased by 171–368% after all repairs. Conclusions: This controlled laboratory study on sawbone models found that both the acromion and distal clavicle are suitable autologous bone graft options for treating large anterior glenoid defects, having appropriate dimensions and contours for reconstructing the glenoid arc. The modified buckle-down and cross-link techniques are two graft fixation techniques that restore stability to the shoulder joint upon repairing a large glenoid defect and are advantageous in being screw-free and simple to execute.
Single-Center Retrospective Subgroup Analysis of “Primary Aortic” (Aneurysm, Aortic Dissection, PAU) and “Secondary Aortic” (Iatrogenic, Trauma, Aortoesophageal Fistula) Indications for Emergency TEVAR
Authors: Rebelo Artur , Partsakhashvili Jumber , Ronellenfitsch Ulrich , John Endres , Kleeff Jörg , Ukkat Jörg
Published: June 2023

Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the outcome of emergency thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) in the treatment of “primary aortic” (aneurysm, aortic dissection, penetrating aortic ulcer (PAU)) and “secondary aortic” (iatrogenic, trauma, and aortoesophageal fistula) pathologies. Methods: Retrospective review of a cohort of patients treated at a single tertiary referral center from 2015 to 2021. The primary end point was postoperative in-hospital mortality. Secondary end points were the duration of the procedure, duration of postoperative intensive care treatment, length of hospital stay, and the nature and severity of postoperative complications according to the Dindo–Clavien classification. Results: A total of 34 patients underwent TEVAR for emergency indications. Twenty-two patients were treated for primary and twelve patients for secondary aortic pathologies. Concerning in-hospital mortality, no statistically significant difference could be observed between the primary and secondary aortic groups (27.3% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.711). Patients with an aortoesophageal fistula had a mortality rate of 66.7%. Postoperative morbidity (Dindo–Clavien > 3) was also not statistically significantly different between the primary and secondary aortic groups (36.4% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.86). Preoperative hemoglobin level (p < 0.001 for mortality, p = 0.002 for morbidity), hemoglobin level difference (p = 0.022, p = 0.032), postoperative creatinine level (p = 0.009, p = 0.035), and pre- and postoperative lactate levels (p < 0.001 for both mortality and morbidity) were found to be independent factors associated with postoperative mortality and morbidity (Dindo–Clavien > 3), respectively. The preoperative creatinine level was found to be associated with mortality (p = 0.024) but not morbidity. Conclusions: Morbidity and in-hospital mortality are still considerable after emergency TEVAR for both primary and secondary aortic indications. Pre- and postoperative levels of hemoglobin, creatinine, and lactate may be valuable to predict patient outcomes.
High Frequency Jet Ventilation or Mechanical Ventilation for Panendoscopy for Cervicofacial Cancer: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Suria Stephanie , Galy Raphaëlle , Bordenave Lauriane , Motamed Cyrus , Bourgain Jean-Louis , Guerlain Joanne , Moya-Plana Antoine , Elmawieh Jamie
Published: June 2023

Introduction—the upper airway panendoscopy, performed under general anesthesia, is mandatory for the diagnosis of cervicofacial cancer. It is a challenging procedure because the anesthesiologist and the surgeon have to share the airway space together. There is no consensus about the ventilation strategy to adopt. Transtracheal high frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) is the traditional method in our institution. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced us to change our practices because HFJV is a high risk for viral dissemination. Tracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation were recommended for all patients. Our retrospective study compares the two ventilation strategies for panendoscopy: high frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) and mechanical ventilation with orotracheal intubation (MVOI). Methods—we reviewed all panendoscopies performed before the pandemic in January and February 2020 (HFJV) and during the pandemic in April and May 2020 (MVOI). Minor patients, patients with a tracheotomy before or after, were excluded. We performed a multivariate analysis adjusted on unbalanced parameters between the two groups to compare the risk of desaturation. Results—we included 182 patients: 81 patients in the HFJV group and 80 in the MVOI group. After adjustments based on BMI, tumor localization, history of cervicofacial cancer surgery, and use of muscle relaxants, the patients from the HFJV group showed significantly less desaturation than the intubation group (9.9% vs. 17.5%, ORa = 0.18, p = 0.047). Conclusion—HFJV limited the incidence of desaturation during upper airway panendoscopies in comparison to oral intubation.
Assessment of Risks Associated with Extreme Climate Events in Small-Scale Bivalve Fisheries: Conceptual Maps for Decision-Making Based on a Review of Recent Studies
Authors: Domínguez Rula , Olabarria Celia , Vázquez Elsa
Published: June 2023

Extreme climate events, such as heatwaves and torrential rain, affect the physiology and functioning of marine species, especially in estuarine habitats, producing severe ecological and socioeconomic impacts when the affected species support important fisheries, such as artisanal shellfisheries. Studies of the impact of sudden decreases in salinity and increases in temperature were reviewed with the aim of producing comprehensive conceptual maps to aid the management of fisheries of the native clams Ruditapes decussatus and Venerupis corrugata, the introduced Ruditapes philippinarum, and the cockle Cerastoderma edule in Galicia (NW Spain). The maps show the effects on mortality, scope for growth, ability to burrow, changes in gonad development or predation risk. While V. corrugata will generally be more affected by low salinity (5 to 15) or high temperature (30 °C) during only two tidal cycles, C. edule populations may recover. Both species are also expected to become more vulnerable to predators. The clams R. philippinarum and R. decussatus will be more resistant, unless extreme events occur after massive spawning episodes; however, the presence of the intertidal seagrass Zostera noltei may buffer the negative effects of high sediment temperature on the growth of some species, such as R. decussatus. Finally, recommendations for assessing climate risk and designing management actions for shellfisheries are given.
Soil–Structure Interactions for the Stability of Offshore Wind Foundations under Varying Weather Conditions
Authors: Cui Liang , Aleem Muhammad , Shivashankar  , Bhattacharya Subhamoy
Published: June 2023

Fixed-bottom foundations of offshore structures, mainly monopiles, are subject to extreme events and other critical cyclic nature loads. Since offshore wind turbine structures are slender, the manufacturers of offshore wind turbines give a range of frequencies for safe operation during a structure’s life cycle. Highly reliable measurements and accurate determination of shear moduli and damping ratios are crucial to ensure the stability of these structures, for example, to avoid the resonance of the structures. Because foundation–soil properties change over a period of time due to various environmental factors, this should be taken into consideration for designs. In the current investigation, behaviours of dry sand under dynamic loads were explored. Cyclic loads of strain amplitudes of 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.25% and 0.5% were carried out in a cyclic simple shear apparatus to explore the evolution trend of the stiffness and damping ratio of the soil. Attempts were made to simulate varying weather conditions by conducting cyclic tests with different strain amplitudes representing normal weather conditions and extreme weather conditions. It was found that soil dynamic properties vary remarkably at first and then tend to stabilise under cyclic loading with the same strain amplitude. However, with varying strain amplitude, property variations continue further. From numerical analyses using the discrete element method, it was found that this is due to the disturbance of soil, causing further particle rearrangements and soil compactions, following a sudden change of strain amplitude, which leads to further property variations.
Analysis of Inflammation-Related Genes in Patients with Stanford Type A Aortic Dissection
Authors: Li Lin , Zeng Ziwei , Yagublu Vugar , Rahbari Nuh , Reißfelder Christoph , Keese Michael
Published: June 2023

Background: Aortic dissection (AD) is a life-threatening cardiovascular disease. Pathophysiologically, it has been shown that aortic wall inflammation promotes the occurrence and development of aortic dissection. Thus, the aim of the current research was to determine the inflammation-related biomarkers in AD. Methods: In this study, we conducted differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis using the GSE153434 dataset containing 10 type A aortic dissection (TAAD) and 10 normal samples downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The intersection of DEGs and inflammation-related genes was identified as differential expressed inflammation-related genes (DEIRGs). Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed for DEIRGs. We then constructed the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) database and identified hub genes using the Cytoscape plugin MCODE. Finally, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression was used to construct a diagnostic model. Results: A total of 1728 DEGs were identified between the TAAD and normal samples. Thereafter, 61 DEIRGs are obtained by taking the intersection of DEGs and inflammation-related genes. The GO indicated that DEIRGs were mainly enriched in response to lipopolysaccharide, in response to molecules of bacterial origin, secretory granule membrane, external side of plasma, receptor ligand activity, and signaling receptor activator activity. KEGG analysis indicated that DEIRGs were mainly enriched in cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, TNF signaling pathway, and proteoglycans in cancer. We identified MYC, SELL, HIF1A, EDN1, SERPINE1, CCL20, IL1R1, NOD2, TLR2, CD69, PLAUR, MMP14, and HBEGF as hub genes using the MCODE plug-in. The ROC indicated these genes had a good diagnostic performance for TAAD. Conclusion: In conclusion, our study identified 13 hub genes in the TAAD. This study will be of significance for the future development of a preventive therapy of TAAD.
Current Research on the Use of the Omental Flap in Breast Reconstruction and Post-Mastectomy Lymphedema: A Focus on Omental-Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer
Authors: Liu Farrah , Thawanyarat Kometh , Navarro Yelissa , Nguyen Dung
Published: June 2023

The novel use of the omental flap in breast reconstruction has been increasing in research popularity within the last few decades. This technique has its roots in the early 20th century as surgeons explored the use of the omentum for a variety of reconstructive purposes across various surgical subspecialties. The current literature shows evidence of the benefits of using the omentum in autologous breast reconstruction compared to the more traditional abdominal, flank, thigh, and gluteal donor flap reconstruction. This method introduces a viable option for patients that do not meet the criteria for the traditional autologous reconstruction techniques allowing for the restoration of more natural appearing breasts without the added complication of donor-site mortality. Additionally, the omentum, with its rich source of vascularized lymph nodes, has been studied as a potential source for lymph node transfer in the treatment of mastectomy-associated lymphedema. In this review, we highlight the most recent research on the current practices of omental-based breast reconstruction techniques and their use in postmastectomy lymphedema. We discuss the history and natural progression of the development of omental-based reconstruction as an autologous breast reconstruction technique, highlight the latest advances and challenges for the utility of the omental flap in current surgical procedures, and present future directions for the potential role of omental-based breast reconstruction in postmastectomy breast surgery.
Athletic Burnout and Its Association with Diet in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Morales-Suárez-Varela María , Peraita-Costa Isabel , Llopis-Morales Agustín , Llopis-González Agustín
Published: June 2023

Children today are constantly exposed to several risk factors and high levels of stress that can impact their mental, emotional, and physical health, which can trigger burnout. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and frequency of burnout in young amateur athletes and to study the role of the Mediterranean diet on burnout risk. An observational, cross-sectional, and descriptive study of 183 basketball players between 8 and 15 years old was carried out. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using the KIDMED questionnaire and the risk of burnout was assessed with the Athlete Burnout Questionnaire. Medians, minimums and maximum values for quantitative variables and absolute frequencies and percentages for qualitative variables were obtained. The results show a higher percentage of burnout among girls. The children who meet the established threshold for burnout spend more time watching television. Participants with better adherence to the Mediterranean diet have lower burnout values in both genders and those with a higher risk of burnout have a worse adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Therefore, it is important to implement a balanced diet appropriate to the individual needs of the athlete.
Role of Exercise Stress Echocardiography in Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Škafar Mojca , Ambrožič Jana , Toplišek Janez , Cvijić Marta
Published: June 2023

Resting and exercise right heart catheterisation is the gold standard method to diagnose and differentiate types of pulmonary hypertension (PH). As it carries technical challenges, the question arises if non-invasive exercise stress echocardiography may be used as an alternative. Exercise echocardiography can unmask exercise PH, detect the early stages of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, and, therefore, differentiate between pre- and post-capillary PH. Regardless of the underlying aetiology, a developed PH is associated with increased mortality. Parameters of overt right ventricle (RV) dysfunction, including RV dilation, reduced RV ejection fraction, and elevated right-sided filling pressures, are detectable with resting echocardiography and are associated with worse outcome. However, these measures all fail to identify occult RV dysfunction. Echocardiographic measures of RV contractile reserve during exercise echocardiography are very promising and provide incremental prognostic information on clinical outcome. In this paper, we review pulmonary haemodynamic response to exercise, briefly describe the modalities for assessing pulmonary haemodynamics, and discuss in depth the contemporary key clinical application of exercise stress echocardiography in patients with PH.
Unraveling the Potential of β-D-Glucans in Poales: From Characterization to Biosynthesis and Factors Affecting the Content
Authors: Havrlentová Michaela , Dvořáček Václav , Jurkaninová Lucie , Gregusová Veronika
Published: June 2023

This review consolidates current knowledge on β-D-glucans in Poales and presents current findings and connections that expand our understanding of the characteristics, functions, and applications of this cell wall polysaccharide. By associating information from multiple disciplines, the review offers valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and consumers interested in harnessing the benefits of β-D-glucans in various fields. The review can serve as a valuable resource for plant biology researchers, cereal breeders, and plant-based food producers, providing insights into the potential of β-D-glucans and opening new avenues for future research and innovation in the field of this bioactive and functional ingredient.
Flexural Behavior of Corroded Concrete Beams Strengthened with Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer
Authors: Wang Yiyuan , Wu Jin
Published: June 2023

The present study investigates the flexural behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) beams; the longitudinal reinforcing rebars of the beams were corroded and then strengthened with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). The corrosion of the longitudinal tension reinforcing rebars in eleven beam specimens was accelerated in order to obtain different corrosion levels. Afterwards, the beam specimens were strengthened by bonding one layer of CFRP sheets to the tension side to restore the strength loss due to the corrosion. The failure modes, flexural capacity, and midspan deflection of the specimens with different corrosion levels of the longitudinal tension reinforcing rebars were obtained by the four-point bending test. It was found that the flexural capacity of the beam specimens decreased with the increase in the corrosion level of the longitudinal tension reinforcing rebars and that the relative flexural strength was only 52.5% when the corrosion level was 25.6%. The stiffness of the beam specimens decreased significantly when the corrosion level was higher than 20%. Through a regression analysis of the test results, a model for the flexural bearing capacity of the corroded RC beams strengthened with CFRP was proposed in the study.
Digital-Twin-Driven AGV Scheduling and Routing in Automated Container Terminals
Authors: Lou Ping , Zhong Yutong , Hu Jiwei , Fan Chuannian , Chen Xiao
Published: June 2023

Automated guided vehicle (AGV) scheduling and routing are critical factors affecting the operation efficiency and transportation cost of the automated container terminal (ACT). Searching for the optimal AGV scheduling and routing plan are effective and efficient ways to improve its efficiency and reduce its cost. However, uncertainties in the physical environment of ACT can make it challenging to determine the optimal scheduling and routing plan. This paper presents the digital-twin-driven AGV scheduling and routing framework, aiming to deal with uncertainties in ACT. By introducing the digital twin, uncertain factors can be detected and handled through the interaction and fusion of physical and virtual spaces. The improved artificial fish swarm algorithm Dijkstra (IAFSA-Dijkstra) is proposed for the optimal AGV scheduling and routing solution, which will be verified in the virtual space and further fed back to the real world to guide actual AGV transport. Then, a twin-data-driven conflict prediction method is proposed to predict potential conflicts by constantly comparing the differences between physical and virtual ACT. Further, a conflict resolution method based on the Yen algorithm is explored to resolve predicted conflicts and drive the evolution of the scheme. Case study examples show that the proposed method can effectively improve efficiency and reduce the cost of AGV scheduling and routing in ACT.