bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Very High-Power Short-Duration (HPSD) Ablation for Pulmonary Vein Isolation: Short and Long-Term Outcome Data
Authors: Seidl Sebastian , Mülleder Tanja , Kaiblinger Josef , Sieghartsleitner Stefan , Alibegovic-Zaborsky Jasmina , Sigmund Elisabeth , Derndorfer Michael , Kollias Georg , Pürerfellner Helmut , Martinek Martin
Published: August 2022

Background: Circumferential pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a standard of care intervention for patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF). During follow-up, a substantial number of patients need a redo procedure due to reconnections on the basis of insufficient non-transmural ablation lesions. High-power short-duration ablation (HPSD) is expected to create efficient lesions while causing fewer complications than in conventional RFA settings. The aim of this study was to compare one-year outcome data of very HPSD (90 Watt, 4 s) to a strategy using 50 Watt HPSD ablation guided by the CLOSE protocol using the Ablation Index (AI), an arbitrary unit composed of power, contact force and ablation time. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed short and long-term (median follow-up 23.2 ± 9.9 months) outcome data from 52 patients that were scheduled for first-do-symptomatic PVI. A very HPSD ablation protocol with 90 Watt and a 4 s duration cut-off was compared to an HPSD CLOSE approach (50 Watts; AI 550 at the anterior LA wall; AI 400 at the posterior LA wall, the roof and the floor) in terms of freedom from AF recurrence in a long-term electrocardiogram (ECG) over a five days surveillance period. To gain an impression of the subjective sense of wellbeing, the Atrial Fibrillation Effects on QualiTy-of-Life (AFEQT) score was recorded. Results: Overall freedom from AF was found in 81% (90 W 4 s) vs. 87.5% (50 W), (p = 0.52). There were 3 AF recurrences during the blanking period (90 W 4 s) vs. 1 (50 W). Within each population, one patient was scheduled for a redo-PVI-procedure. The AFEQT score was in favor of the 90 Watt 4 s approach (86.1 vs. 77.5; p = 0.37). Conclusion: Within our relatively small studied population, we found hints that in addition to shortening ablation times and radiation exposure without significantly increasing the rate of relevant intraprocedural complications, very high power short-duration ablation (90 W 4 s) provides comparable efficacy rates after one year.
HPV-Positive and -Negative Cervical Cancers Are Immunologically Distinct
Authors: Evans Andris , Salnikov Mikhail , Gameiro Steven , Maleki Vareki Saman , Mymryk Joe
Published: August 2022

Although infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with nearly all cervical cancers (CC), a small proportion are HPV-negative. Recently, it has become clear that HPV-negative CC represent a distinct disease phenotype compared to HPV-positive disease and exhibit increased mortality. In addition, variations between different HPV types associated with CC have been linked to altered molecular pathology and prognosis. We compared the immune microenvironments of CC caused by HPV α9 species (HPV16-like), HPV α7 species (HPV18-like) and HPV-negative disease. HPV-negative CC appeared distinct from other subtypes, with greatly reduced levels of lymphocyte infiltration compared to either HPV α9 or α7 CC. Besides reduced levels of markers indicative of B, T, and NK lymphocytes, the expression of T-cell effector molecules, activation/exhaustion markers, and T-cell receptor diversity were also significantly lower in HPV-negative CC. Interestingly, HPV-negative CC expressed much higher levels of potential neoantigens than HPV-positive CC. These results identify profound differences between the immune landscape of HPV-positive and HPV-negative CC as well as modest differences between HPV α9 and α7 CC. These differences may contribute to altered patient outcomes between HPV-negative and HPV-positive CC and potentially between CC associated with different HPV types.
The Relationship between the M1/M2 Macrophage Polarization and the Degree of Ossicular Erosion in Human Acquired Cholesteatoma: An Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Bassiouni Mohamed , Arens Philipp , Zabaneh Samira Ira , Olze Heidi , Horst David , Roßner Florian
Published: August 2022

The differential involvement of the macrophage activation phenotypes (M1 vs. M2) has been linked to disease severity in various chronic inflammatory disorders. Pharmacologic manipulation of the M1/M2 macrophage polarization has shown therapeutic potential. Cholesteatoma is a destructive chronic middle ear disease with potentially life-threatening complications. The distribution of macrophage polarization phenotypes in middle ear cholesteatoma has not been described. In the present study, human cholesteatoma specimens acquired during tympanomastoidectomy were retrospectively retrieved and immunohistochemically characterized using a combination of antibodies labeling M1 macrophages (CD80), M2 macrophages (CD163), and total macrophages (CD68). The correlations between the immunohistochemical findings and clinical presentation were assessed. The findings revealed that cholesteatomas with more extensive ossicular erosion demonstrated a significantly higher number of M1 (CD80+) cells and a higher M1/M2 ratio than less invasive cholesteatomas (Wilcoxon test, p < 0.05). The extent of ossicular erosion correlated significantly with the M1/M2 ratio (Spearman correlation coefficient ρ = 0.4, p < 0.05). Thus, the degree of ossicular erosion in human acquired cholesteatoma appears to be related to the M1/M2 macrophage polarization. The investigation of macrophage polarization and functions in various clinical presentations of middle ear cholesteatoma is of great interest since it may contribute to the development of pharmaceutical treatment approaches.
State-of-the-Art Review: Technical and Imaging Considerations in Hybrid Transcatheter and Minimally Invasive Left Ventricular Reconstruction for Ischemic Heart Failure
Authors: Hegeman Romy Roosmarijn Maria Jacqueline Josepha , Swaans Martin John , van Kuijk Jan-Peter , Klein Patrick
Published: August 2022

Negative left ventricular (LV) remodeling consequent to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is characterized by an increase in LV volumes in the presence of a depressed LVEF. In order to restore the shape, size, and function of the LV, operative treatment options to achieve volume reduction and shape reconstruction should be considered. In the past decade, conventional surgical LV reconstruction through a full median sternotomy has evolved towards a hybrid transcatheter and less invasive LV reconstruction. In order to perform a safe and effective hybrid LV reconstruction, thorough knowledge of the technical considerations and adequate use of multimodality imaging both pre- and intraoperatively are fundamental. In addition, a comprehensive understanding of the individual procedural steps from both a cardiological and surgical point of view is required.
Percutaneous Closure of Mitral Paravalvular Leak: Long-Term Results in a Single-Center Experience
Authors: Cruz-González Ignacio , Luengo-Mondéjar Pablo , Trejo-Velasco Blanca , Núñez-García Jean C. , González-Ferreiro Rocío , Moreno-Samos José C. , Fuertes-Barahona Mónica , Rama-Merchán Juan C. , Antúnez-Muiños Pablo , López-Tejero Sergio , Barreira de Sousa Gilles , Rodríguez-Collado Javier , Martín-Moreiras Javier , Diego-Nieto Alejandro , Herrero-Garibi Jesús , Barreiro-Pérez Manuel , Díaz-Peláez Elena , Sánchez Fernández Pedro L.
Published: August 2022

Background: Paravalvular leak occurs in 5–17% of patients following surgical valve replacement, more often in mitral position. The prognosis without treatment is poor. Percutaneous device closure represents an alternative to repeat surgery. The objective of this work is to evaluate the medium and long-term results in the percutaneous closure of PVL in mitral prosthesis. Methods: This observational study is based on a retrospective registry including consecutive mitral PVL cases undergoing percutaneous closure at a single tertiary-care center from April 2010 to December 2020. The safety and efficacy results of the procedure, at 90 days and in the long term, were analyzed. Also, predictors of procedure failure and long-term events were identified. Results: A total of 128 consecutive mitral paravalvular leak closure procedures were included. Technical success was achieved in 115 (89.8%) procedures. The presence of multiple PVLs was the sole factor that independently predicted procedural failure. Median follow-up of our sample was 41.8 months (mean 47.7 ± 35.7 months). Underlying hemolytic anemia as the indication for PVL closure, a recent admission for decompensated HF, and lack of improvement in functional class emerged as consistent predictors of MACE and death during long-term follow-up, while lack of procedural success during the first PVL procedure and chronic kidney disease were also associated with MACE during follow-up. Conclusions: Percutaneous mitral PVL closure displayed high technical and procedural success rates, with an acceptable safety profile, in a high-risk population. Percutaneous mitral PVL closure achieved an improvement in short- and long-term functional class and a reduction of hemolysis in the vast majority of patients. In addition, long-term survival in our study was good, in particular for patients undergoing successful PVL closure procedures.
Periacetabular Osteotomy and Postoperative Pregnancy—Is There an Influence on the Mode of Birth?
Authors: Schömig Friederike , Hipfl Christian , Löchel Jannis , Perka Carsten , Hardt Sebastian , Leopold Vincent Justus
Published: August 2022

As a surgical treatment option in symptomatic developmental dysplasia of the hip, periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is often performed in female patients of childbearing age. Yet, to date, little is known about the procedure’s influence on postoperative pregnancies and the mode of delivery. Our study’s aim therefore was to investigate patient and physician decision making in women after PAO. We invited all patients who had undergone PAO in our institution from January 2015 to June 2017 to participate in a paper-based survey. Of these, we included all female patients and performed a retrospective chart review as well as analysis of pre- and postoperative radiological imaging. A total of 87 patients were included, 20 of whom gave birth to 26 children after PAO. The mean overall follow-up was 5.3 ± 0.8 years. Four (20.0%) patients reported that their obstetrician was concerned due to their history of PAO. The mean time before the first child’s birth was 2.9 ± 1.3 years. Eleven (55.0%) patients underwent cesarean section for the first delivery after PAO, three of whom reported their history of PAO as the reason for this type of delivery. Patients with a history of PAO have a higher risk of delivering a child by cesarean section compared with the general population, in which the rate of cesarean section is reported to be 29.7%. As cesarean sections are associated with increased morbidity and mortality compared with vaginal deliveries, evidence-based recommendations for pregnancies after pelvic osteotomy are needed.
Predicting Renal Denervation Response in Resistant High Blood Pressure by Arterial Stiffness Assessment: A Systematic Review
Authors: Burlacu Alexandru , Brinza Crischentian , Floria Mariana , Stefan Anca Elena , Covic Andreea , Covic Adrian
Published: August 2022

Background: Accurately selecting hypertensive candidates for renal denervation (RDN) therapy is required, as one-third of patients who undergo RDN are non-responders. We aimed to systematically review the literature on RDN response prediction using arterial stiffness assessment, optimizing the selection of patients referred for interventional blood pressure lowering procedures. Methods: A literature search was performed in MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases to retrieve potential eligible studies from the inception to 30 June 2022. Results: Ten studies were finally included in this systematic review. Studies consistently documented that invasive pulse wave velocity (PWV) was correlated with RDN’s significant success. Nevertheless, non-invasive ambulatory arterial stiffness index and PWV derived from ambulatory blood pressure monitoring were independent predictors of blood pressure response (p = 0.04 and p < 0.0001). In some studies, magnetic resonance imaging parameters of arterial stiffness (ascending aortic distensibility, total arterial compliance) were correlated with blood pressure reduction (AUC = 0.828, p = 0.006). Conclusions: Assessing arterial stiffness prior to RDN predicted procedural success, since stiffness parameters were strongly correlated with a significant blood pressure response. Our endeavor should be tackled as a step forward in selecting appropriate hypertensive patients scheduled for RDN therapy. Non-invasive measurements could be an alternative to invasive parameters for response prediction.
Is the Calcium Score Useful for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients at Low or Intermediate Cardiovascular Risk?
Authors: Jesson Claire , Bohbot Yohann , Soudet Simon , Renard Cedric , Sobhy Danial Jean-Marc , Diep Laetitia , Doussière Marie , Tribouilloy Christophe , Goëb Vincent
Published: August 2022

Cardiovascular disease, particularly myocardial infarction, is the leading cause of death of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. The usefulness of the coronary artery calcification score (CACS), determined using cardiac computed-tomography (CT)-scan images, was assessed as a part of a cardiovascular work-up of RA patients at low or intermediate cardiovascular disease risk. This descriptive, cross-sectional, single-center study was conducted on patients with stable RA or that which is in remission. Each patient’s work-up included a collection of cardiovascular risk factors, laboratory analyses, an electrocardiogram, a supra-aortic trunks (SATs) echo-Doppler test and a cardiac CT scan. The primary endpoint was to determine the frequency of patients with a CACS > 100, indicating notable atherosclerosis. Fifty patients were analyzed: mean ± standard deviation age was 53.7 ± 7.5 years, 82% women. The CACS exceeded 100 in 12 (24%) patients (11 were at intermediate risk) and 2 of them underwent angioplasty for silent myocardial ischemia. Cardiovascular risk was reclassified from intermediate to high for 5 patients. Age according to sex and smoking status were significantly associated with that increase; no association was found with RA characteristics or treatments.
Aortic Valve Surgery: Fix the Valve or Use a New One?
Authors: Doulamis Ilias P. , Rempakos Athanasios , Etchill Eric W. , Briasoulis Alexandros
Published: August 2022

Surgical replacement of the diseased aortic valve (SAVR) has been implemented for over half a century as the surgery of choice to prolong the lifespan of this population of patients [...]
The Lack of Analgesic Efficacy of Nefopam after Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery for Lung Cancer: A Randomized, Single-Blinded, Controlled Trial
Authors: Yeo Hyean , Choi Ji Won , Lee Seungwon , Sim Woo Seog , Park Soo Jung , Jeong Heejoon , Yang Mikyung , Ahn Hyun Joo , Kim Jie Ae , Lee Eun Ji
Published: August 2022

Nefopam is a centrally acting non-opioid analgesic, and its efficacy in multimodal analgesia has been reported. This study aimed to assess the analgesic efficacy of intraoperative nefopam on postoperative pain after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for lung cancer. Participants were randomly assigned to either the nefopam or the control group. The nefopam group received 20 mg of nefopam after induction and 15 min before the end of surgery. The control group received saline. The primary outcome was cumulative opioid consumption during the 6 h postoperatively. Pain intensities, the time to first request for rescue analgesia, adverse events during the 72 h postoperatively, and the incidence of chronic pain 3 months after surgery were evaluated. Ninety-nine patients were included in the analysis. Total opioid consumption during the 6 h postoperatively was comparable between the groups (nefopam group [n = 50] vs. control group [n = 49], 19.8 [13.5–25.3] mg vs. 20.3 [13.9–27.0] mg; median difference: −1.55, 95% CI: −6.64 to 3.69; p = 0.356). Pain intensity during the 72 h postoperatively and the incidence of chronic pain 3 months after surgery did not differ between the groups. Intraoperative nefopam did not decrease acute postoperative opioid consumption or pain intensity, nor did it reduce the incidence of chronic pain after VATS.
Impact of the 1st Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Lockdown on In Utero Transfer Activity in the Paris Area, France
Authors: Vivanti Alexandre J. , Fesquet Stanislas , Gabriel Diane , Letourneau Alexandra , Crenn-Hebert Catherine , De Luca Daniele , Bouyer Jean , Novelli Sophie , Benachi Alexandra , Veil Raphaël
Published: August 2022

Background: To assess changes in the number and profile of in utero transfer requests during the first lockdown. Methods: An observational, retrospective, cohort study. All pregnant women, from the Paris area (France), for whom a request for in utero transfer to the transfer unit was made during the first lockdown in France (from 17 March to 10 May 2020) or during a mirror period (years 2016 to 2019) were included. We compared the numbers and proportions of various indications for in utero transfer, the rates of in utero transfer acceptance and the proportion of outborn deliveries. Results: 206 transfer requests were made during the lockdown versus 227, 236, 204 and 228 in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, respectively. The relative proportion of requests for threatened preterm births and for fetal growth restriction decreased from 45% in the mirror period to 37% and from 8 to 3%, respectively. The transfer acceptance rates and outborn deliveries did not differ between time periods. Conclusions: Although a reduction in in utero transfer requests was observed for certain indications, the first lockdown was not associated with a decrease in acceptance rates nor in an increase in outborn births of pregnancies with a high risk of prematurity in the Paris area.
Peripheral Circumferential Retinal Detachment after Pars Plana Vitrectomy: Complications and Management
Authors: Hsu Cherng-Ru , Yang Chung-May
Published: August 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate treatment outcomes and complications of peripheral circumferential retinal detachment (PCD) after successful vitrectomy. Methods: Eyes diagnosed with PCD after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) were retrospectively reviewed. The patient demographic data, complications, management, and treatment outcomes were collected and analyzed. Results: The mean follow-up duration was 18.0 ± 11.9 months. BCVA ranged from light perception to 0.1 (median: counting fingers at 40 cm). Major complications included rubeosis iridis (seven eyes), vitreous hemorrhage (five eyes), hyphema (five eyes), corneal decompensation (three eyes), hypotony (two eyes), and neovascular glaucoma (two eyes). All eyes underwent peripheral retinectomy to remove the detached retina and release traction. Complete retinal reattachment was achieved in all eyes. The final BCVA ranged from hand motion to 0.1 (median: counting fingers at 30 cm). Conclusion: PCD may be associated with delayed-onset complications, causing severe loss of vision. Proper management, including peripheral retinectomy, may preserve visual function.
A Retrospective Observational Study Assessing the Clinical Outcomes of a Novel Implant System with Low-Speed Site Preparation Protocol and Tri-Oval Implant Geometry
Authors: Fabbri Giacomo , Staas Tristan , Urban Istvan
Published: August 2022

A novel, biologically friendly implant concept system introduces low-speed (50 rpm) site preparation instruments used without irrigation and a tri-oval, tapered implant designed to reduce stress on cortical bone without sacrificing mechanical stability. This retrospective, observational, multicenter study (clinicaltrials.gov NCT04736771) collected data from consecutive patients treated with at least one novel concept system implant to evaluate clinical outcomes after 1 year in function. The primary endpoint was a marginal bone level change (MBLC) from loading to 1 year, and secondary endpoints included implant survival and clinician feedback. Ninety-five patients (54 women and 41 men, mean age: 58 ± 12 years) were treated with 165 implants. For 94.5% of implants, site preparation was performed in two steps. The mean follow-up from implant insertion was 1.8 ± 0.2 years. Mean MBLC from implant loading to 1-year follow-up was +0.15 ± 0.85 mm (n = 124 implants). At the last follow-up, the implant survival rate was 98.0%. Clinician satisfaction with the novel concept system was high. The novel concept system offers an easy-to-use implant placement protocol, with most implants placed using two steps. The minimal bone remodeling and high survival rate observed across a variety of indications and treatment protocols demonstrate broad versatility and confirm the clinical benefits of this biologically friendly innovation.
A Synopsis of “The Impact of Motivation, Price, and Habit on Intention to Use IoT-Enabled Technology: A Correlational Study”
Authors: Phibbs Christina L. , Rahman Shawon S. M.
Published: August 2022

Older adults in the U.S. are interested in maintaining independence, aging at home longer, and staying active. Their substantial size, market share, and household wealth sparked the interest of investors and developers in remote monitoring, smart homes, ambient-assisted living, tracking, applications, and sensors via the IoT. This study used the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology extended (UTAUT2). The overarching research question was: “To what extent do performance, effort, influence, conditions, motivation, price, and habit affect older adults’ behavioral intent to use IoT technologies in their homes?” The research methodology for this study was a nonexperimental correlation of the variables that affect older adults’ intention to use IoT-enabled technologies in their homes. The population was adults 60 plus years in northern Virginia. The sample consisted of 316 respondents. The seven predictors cumulatively influenced older adults’ behavioral intent to use IoT-enabled technologies, F(7, 308) = 133.50, p < 0.001, R2 = 0.75. The significant predictors of behavioral intention to use IoT technologies were performance expectancy (B = 0.244, t(308) = 4.427, p < 0.001), social influence (B = 0.138, t(308) = 3.4775, p = 0.001), facilitating conditions (B = 0.184, t(308) = 2.999, p = 0.003), hedonic motivation (B = 0.153, t(308) = 2.694, p = 0.007), price value (B = 0.140, t(308) = 3.099, p = 0.002), and habit (B = 0.378, t(308) = 8.696, p < 0.001). Effort expectancy was insignificant (B = −0.026, t(308) = −0.409, p = 0.683). This study filled the gap in research on older adults’ acceptance of IoT by focusing specifically on that population. The findings help reduce the risk of solutions driven by technological and organizational requirements rather than the older adults’ unique needs and requirements. The study revealed that older adults may be susceptible to undue influence to adopt IoT solutions. These socioeconomic dimensions of the UTAUT2 are essential to the information technology field because the actualizing of IoT-enabled technologies in private homes depends on older adults’ participation and adoption. This research is beneficial to IoT developers, implementers, cybersecurity researchers, healthcare providers, caregivers, and managers of in-home care providers regarding adding IoT technologies in their homes.
Special Issue “Hox Genes in Development: New Paradigms”
Authors: Merabet Samir
Published: August 2022

In this Special Issue on “Hox genes in development: new paradigms”, we present a compilation of articles and reviews tackling various aspects of the Hox biology field [...]
Sympathetic Vagal Balance and Cognitive Performance in Young Adults during the NIH Cognitive Test
Authors: Lee Jinhyun , Shields Richard K.
Published: August 2022

Compromised cognitive function is associated with increased mortality and increased healthcare costs. Autonomic nervous system arousal, as measured by an electrocardiogram (ECG), has received recent attention because of its association with the blood perfusion of brain regions involved with cognitive function. The purposes of this study were to determine whether the ECG HR variation, as measured by the standard deviation of the heart rate N-to-N intervals (SDNN), and sympathetic vagal tone, as estimated by the low-frequency/high-frequency ratio (LF/HF), are increased with cognitive performance during the NIH Cognitive Test (Picture Sequence, Dimensional Change Card Sort, Flanker, and List Sorting). A total of 62 young people without cognitive impairment participated in this study. We discovered that the ECG LF/HF ratio was increased in the top 50% of participants who could: (1) inhibit information and stay attentive to a desired task during the Flanker Test; (U = 329, p = 0.03; R2 = 0.76); and (2) promote cognitive function flexibility during the DCCS Test; (U = 55, p = 0.007; R2 = 0.98). Taken together, these findings support that the arousal level influences performance during a cognitive test.
A Design of Experiment Approach for Development of Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion Process Parameters and Improvement of Ti-6Al-4V As-Built Properties
Authors: Braun Dor , Ganor Yaron Itay , Samuha Shmuel , Guttmann Gilad Mordechai , Chonin Michael , Frage Nachum , Hayun Shmuel , Tiferet Eitan
Published: August 2022

Additive manufacturing is a novel and breakthrough technology by which parts can be manufactured for various purposes and services. As in any production process, the desired properties of additively manufactured components, particularly in electron beam melting processes, ultimately depend on the manufacturing process parameters. Process parameters should be designed accordingly to manufacture parts with specific and desired characteristics. This study focuses on examining the effect of process parameters, such as beam current and velocity, focus offset, and line offset, at three different values each, on the properties of Ti-6Al-4V alloy. The study on the effect of the process parameters on the as-built material’s performance was performed using the Taguchi approach using an L9 (34) orthogonal array. The properties of printed parts (density, surface roughness, elastic moduli, hardness, tensile characteristics, fractography, and microstructure) were tested. A wide range of properties was obtained and analyzed; namely, porosity varied from 8% to almost fully dense materials with density higher than 99.9% and a range of yield and ultimate tensile strength values and brittle samples with less than 1% elongation to ductile samples with an elongation greater than 16%. The overall performance of printed parts was determined based on an evaluation criterion. Several parameter combinations were found and yielded the fabrication of parts with high density and relatively fine microstructure. The comparison of the best parameter combinations determined in this study and the parameters recommended by the machine manufacturer showed that improved results were obtained, and even when using the optimal parameters, they can be improved even more. This result highlights the ability of the proposed DOE method to further develop existing results and even for development of manufacturing parameters for new materials.
Tsunami Distribution Functions along the Coast: Extended
Authors: Didenkulova Ira , Zaitsev Andrey , Pelinovsky Efim
Published: August 2022

The distribution of tsunami runup heights along the coast is studied both theoretically and experimentally using observation data of historical tsunami from 1992 to 2018. The physical mechanisms leading to the lognormal distribution of tsunami runup heights along the coast are discussed, and its statistical moments are calculated. It is shown that the lognormal distribution describes well the measurements of tsunami characteristics over the past 30 years. Special attention is paid to the multi-source 2018 Palu–Sulawesi tsunami, which was generated by an earthquake with magnitude 7.5 and numerous subsequent landslides. It is shown that even in this special case the lognormal distribution is a rather good approximation.
Sensitivities in Wind Driven Spectral Wave Modelling for the Belgian Coast
Authors: van Eeden Frans , Klonaris Georgios , Verbeurgt Jeffrey , Troch Peter , De Wulf Alain
Published: August 2022

This paper presents the analysis of spectral wind-wave modelling (using SWAN) of the North Sea focusing on the modelled wave parameters along the Belgian coast. Two wind databases were used to drive the model: ECMWF-ERA5 reanalysis and the Dutch Offshore Wind Atlas. The models were calibrated with measured data at various stations along the Belgian coastline. The accuracy in terms of wave parameter statistics was compared for the calibrated and uncalibrated models. It was found that a calibrated SWAN model does, in general, produce more accurate results when compared to measured data for stations along the Belgian coastline even though not by any significant margin. Comparing the two wind databases, on the modelling scale conducted in this study, there is no advantage observed in using a spatially finer scale wind database over a coarser database to force the model. The grid sizes were varied in the models and marginal differences were observed in the modelled data. The long-term extreme value statistics were calculated for various grid sizes and compared to published values. It is shown that the extreme value statistics are relatively insensitive to the grid density and thus much time can be saved on long-term modelling on this model scale. In addition, a benefit to the practise of grid nesting is demonstrated when considering complex bathymetric effects that have an influence on wave transformation in the shallower areas of the coast, especially along the Belgian coastline demarcated with its numerous sandbanks.
A Ship Firefighting Training Simulator with Physics-Based Smoke
Authors: Tao Rui , Ren Hongxiang , Zhou Yi
Published: August 2022

Under the current background of navigation education, students generally lack a comprehensive grasp of ship firefighting equipment’s operation. Therefore, we develop a novel ship firefighting training simulator with a multi-sensory human–computer interaction function for teaching and training marine students. In the simulator, we consider a container ship of 1.8w containers as the prototype ship, and the entire ship models are built using three-dimensional modeling technology. We design various interactive modes and realize a full-process operation simulation of several standard ship firefighting equipment. Furthermore, we propose a purely Lagrangian vortex dynamics framework to simulate smoke and flame in fire scenarios. In this framework, we model fluids using velocity and vorticity fields discretized on discrete vortex segments. The main components of the framework include a stable geometric stretching solution and particle strength exchange method for solving the diffusion term. The simulation results show that the simulator has good behavioral realism and scene immersion and can be applied to ship firefighting training. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study on real-time smoke simulation using a physics-based method in a firefighting training simulator.
Virulence-Associated Genes of Calonectria ilicola, Responsible for Cylindrocladium Black Rot
Authors: Chen Xinyu , Luo Mei , Wu Wei , Dong Zhangyong , Zou Huasong
Published: August 2022

The Cylindrocladium black rot caused by Calonectria ilicicola is a destructive disease affecting a broad range of crops. Herein, we study virulence-associated genes of C. ilicicolaCi14017 isolated from diseased peanut roots (Arachis hypogaea L.). Ci14017 was identified via phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer region and standard Koch’s postulate testing. Virulence-associated genes were based on genome analyses and comparative analysis of transcriptome and proteome profiles of sensitive and resistant peanut cultivars. Ci14017 identified as C. ilicicola has a 66 Mb chromosome with 18,366 predicted protein-coding genes. Overall, 46 virulence-associated genes with enhanced expression levels in the sensitive cultivars were identified. Sequence analysis indicated that the 46 gene products included two merops proteins, eight carbohydrate-active enzymes, seven cytochrome P450 enzymes, eight lipases, and 20 proteins with multi-conserved enzyme domains. The results indicate a complex infection mechanism employed by Ci14017 for causing Cylindrocladium black rot in peanuts.
Long-Term Device Satisfaction and Safety after Cochlear Implantation in Children
Authors: Urík Milan , Šikolová Soňa , Hošnová Dagmar , Kruntorád Vít , Bartoš Michal , Jabandžiev Petr
Published: August 2022

(1) Objectives: For full benefit in children implanted with a cochlear implant (CI), wearing the device all waking hours is necessary. This study focuses on the relationship between daily use and audiological outcomes, with the hypothesis that frequent daily device use coincides with high device satisfaction resulting in better functional gain (FG). Confounding factors such as implantation age, device experience and type of device were considered. (2) Results: Thirty-eight CI children (65 ears) were investigated. In total, 76.92% of the children were using their device for >12 h per day (h/d), 18.46% for 9–12 h/d, the remaining for 6–9 h/d and one subject reported 3 h/d. The revision rate up to the 90-month follow-up (F/U) was 4.6%. The mean FG was 59.00 ± 7.67 dB. The Audio Processor Satisfaction Questionnaire (APSQ) separated for single unit (SU) versus behind the ear (BTE) devices showed significantly better results for the latter in terms of wearing comfort (WC) (p = 0.00062). A correlation between device use and FG was found with a device experience of <2 years (n = 29; r2 = 0.398), whereas no correlation was seen with ≥2 years of device experience (n = 36; r2 = 0.0038). (3) Conclusion: This study found significant relationships between daily device use and FG, wearing comfort and long-term safety (90 months).
Obstacles to the Development of Integrated Land-Use Planning in Developing Countries: The Case of Paraguay
Authors: Delphin Sonia , Snyder Katherine A. , Tanner Sophia , Musálem Karim , Marsh Stuart E. , Soto José R.
Published: August 2022

Land-use planning identifies the best land-use options by considering environmental, economic, and social factors. Different theoretical land-use plan models can be found in the literature; however, few studies focus on its practical application and particular challenges in different contexts, especially in the Global South. We use expert surveys to explore the feasibility and relevance of integrated land-use planning and data acquisition in developing countries using Paraguay as an example. We identify the challenges of developing land-use plans and strategies to navigate these barriers to speed up its implementation. The results show that it might be difficult to develop an integrated land-use plan in the context of developing countries, mainly due to data availability, lack of political will, lack of stakeholder engagement, and insufficient financial and human resources. We also highlight examples of creative ways in which previous land-use planning projects and studies navigated these challenges, including stakeholder consultations, use of simpler models that required less data, prioritization of data collection, and engagement of decision makers throughout the process. We provide crucial information to improve land-use planning processes in Paraguay and across the Global South in areas with similar contexts and challenges that aim to develop in a more sustainable way.
Dependence on Mountains and Water: Local Characteristics and Regeneration Patterns of Rural Industrial Heritage in China
Authors: Xiong Xiangrui , Wang Yanhui , Pesoa-Marcilla Melisa , Sabaté-Bel Joaquín
Published: August 2022

In most Chinese villages, mountains and water are essential resources for human life, which residents have established close connections with through subsistence and production activities. These connections involve geographical, functional, and spiritual effects, which create the unique cultural identity of a place. As a kind of rural heritage, rural industrial heritage is a concrete result of the interaction between local activities and mountains and water, thus presenting specific local characteristics. The conservation and re-use of rural heritage have become an important issue in global rural studies. Different cases that have been transformed and re-used are analyzed in this paper, in order to explore the influence of mountains and water on their local characteristics, the effects on their conservation and re-use in both spiritual and functional aspects, and suitable regeneration patterns based on local characteristics. Comparative analysis of 3D maps, diagrams, and literature materials indicate that: (1) mountains and water dominate rural industrial heritage geographical characteristics, including their layout, size, and form; (2) the direct or indirect supports of mountains and water, in terms of functional and spiritual aspects, have changed after regeneration, where spiritual supports are becoming increasingly important; and (3) regeneration patterns with different focuses represent new habitats combining natural and artificial landscapes, indicating new relationships that shift from the single utilization of mountain and water resources in the past to symbiosis and mutual benefits between residents, heritage, nature, and local communities in the modern context.
Analysis of Floral Organ Development and Sex Determination in Schisandra chinensis by Scanning Electron Microscopy and RNA-Sequencing
Authors: Liu Xiuyan , Zhang Lifan , Yang Shihai
Published: August 2022

S. chinensis is a typical monoecious plant, and the number and development of female flowers determines the yield of S. chinensis. Due to a lack of genetic information, the molecular mechanism of sex differentiation in S. chinensis remains unclear. In this study, the combination of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was used to understand the way of sex differentiation of S. chinensis and to mine the related genes of sex determination. The result shows the development of male and female S. chinensis flowers was completed at the same time, the unisexual S. chinensis flowers did not undergo a transition stage between sexes, and sex may have been determined at an early stage in flower development. The results of the gene function analysis of the plant hormone signaling pathway and sucrose metabolism pathway suggest that auxin and JA could be the key hormones for sex differentiation in S. chinensis, and sucrose may promote pollen maturation at the later stage of male flower development. Two AGAMOUS (GAG) genes, 10 AGAMOUS-like MADS-box (AGLs) genes, and the MYB, NAC, WRKY, bHLH, and Trihelix transcription factor families may play important roles in sex determination in S. chinensis. Taken together, the present findings provide valuable genetic information on flower development and sex determination in S. chinensis.
Microbial Diversity and Community Composition of Duodenum Microbiota of High and Low Egg-Yielding Taihang Chickens Identified Using 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing
Authors: Han Haiyin , Sun Yingjie , Fan Yekai , Zhang Hui , Yang Junqi , Chi Runqing , Gao Yahui , Liu Jiannan , Li Kaiyang , Li Wenting , Liu Yufang
Published: August 2022

The duodenum is an important digestive organ for poultry and houses a variety of microbes that help chickens to enhance nutrient absorption and improve production. To evaluate the characteristic of gut microbiome, duodenum content samples from 42-week-old native Taihang chickens with high (H) and low (L) egg-yielding were collected for 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing analysis. Consequently, 1,361,341 sequences were clustered into 2055 OTUs, with percentages of affiliation of 96.50 and 57.30% at phylum and genus levels. Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Cyanobacteria and Bacteroidetes were the dominant phylum, with a lower ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes in H group than in L group (p < 0.05). At genus level, overrepresentation of Bacteroides, Faecalibacterim, and Enterococcus and underrepresentation of Romboutsia were found in H group. No significant difference in overall diversity of microbiota was observed between two groups. LEFSe analysis revealed Enterococcus was significantly enriched in H group. Importantly, Enterococcus and Lactobacillus were negatively correlated. Functional prediction analysis showed the proportion of microbiota involved in the metabolism process was the highest and enriched in H group. Differences in microbiota composition between the two groups, which may be related to intestinal function difference, also provide promising biomarkers for improving laying hen production.
Study on the Application of Sediment-Based Embankment Building and Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) Preparation in the Resource Utilization of Yellow River Sediment
Authors: Yan Jun , Zhong Sai , Chen Sainan , Lv Yajun , Yang Longbin , Peng Guanghong , Deng Anjun
Published: August 2022

The Yellow River is difficult to control. Little water and a large amount of sediment results in sediment accumulation in its lower reaches as sediment inflow exceeds transport capacity. Reducing this sediment deposition is essential for harnessing the Yellow River. Included in this process is the rational use of the sediment. Many researchers have investigated usage of Yellow River sediment as an aggregate material for concrete production, but there are still some problems (e.g., low resource utilization and low strength of the concrete made from Yellow River sediment). To make up the deficiency in the existing research, this study proposes two methods of sediment utilization. One is to use Yellow River sediment to build embankments, and the other is to use ultra-fine Yellow River sand to prepare ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). Test results reveal that the prepared high-strength concrete performs well in each test, including: fluidity, mechanical properties, pore structure, ecological evaluation, microscopic measurement of the interface transition zone, and economic analysis.
Mechanical and Pore Properties of Concrete Using Basalt-Based Recycled Aggregates According to Mixture Conditions
Authors: Choi Hong-Beom , Park Jin-O , Lee Hyung-Do , Lee Kyeo-Re
Published: August 2022

This study investigated recycled aggregates of Jeju Island—where porous basalt exists as a natural aggregate—and is a study aimed at verifying the applicability of the basalt-based recycled aggregate in the field. To this end, the application properties of concrete were analyzed using the quality improvement of the recycled aggregate (PRA), the type of fine aggregate received in the region, and the cement content as variables. In an experiment using concrete in which 50% of the PRA was replaced with basalt (BA), the air content of the fresh concrete decreased due to the increasing solid content of the aggregate when PRA and fine aggregates (with an even particle size distribution) were used. Regarding the properties of the hardened concrete, when the PRA and fine aggregate (with a high fineness modulus) were used, the compressive strength was 33.6 MPa and the modulus of elasticity was 23.1 GPa, which are higher than those of the BA specimen. The resistance to carbonation increased due to the improved quality of the PRA specimen. Pores that are 0.3 mm in size or larger decreased when the PRA and fine aggregates of even particle sizes were used. This form of pore reduction was found to have a direct correlation with the improvement of mechanical properties.
Effect of Ranque-Hilsch Vortex Tube Cooling to Enhance the Surface-Topography and Tool-Wear in Sustainable Turning of Al-5.6Zn-2.5Mg-1.6Cu-0.23Cr-T6 Aerospace Alloy
Authors: Singh Jasjeevan , Gill Simranpreet Singh , Dogra Manu , Sharma Shubham , Singh Mandeep , Dwivedi Shashi Prakash , Li Changhe , Singh Sunpreet , Muhammad Shoaib , Salah Bashir , Shamseldin Mohamed A.
Published: August 2022

The aerospace metal cutting industry’s search for environmentally friendly practices that do not compromise machining performance is well known. One of the major objectives is the reduction in use of cutting fluids, which play a major role in containing the harsh effects of severe heat generated during machining. Machining performance and product quality can be improved by controlling heat during machining. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of various environmentally friendly metalworking fluid (MF) strategies for the sustainable turning of aerospace aluminum alloy (Al-5.6Zn-2.5Mg-1.6Cu-0.23Cr-T6) for automotive, marine, and aerospace industrial applications. The SEM images were analyzed for worn tool surfaces and machined surfaces. Under dry conditions, heat does not dissipate well, and will enter the workpiece due to the absence of coolant. This causes extreme damage beneath a turned workpiece. Thus, at 10 µm, a drop in microhardness of approximately 20% can be observed. A similar observation was made in a Ranque-Hilsch vortex tube (RHVT) and in compressed air; however, the drop in hardness was relatively low compared to dry conditions. This evaluation of microhardness indicated a heat-based attention in the turned workpiece, and thus, the heat-based effect was found to be lowest in RHVT and compressed air compared to dry conditions. Results showed that RHVT reduces temperature up to 10%, surface roughness 13%, and tool wear 20% compared to dry turning. Overall, RHVT was identified as more effective environmentally friendly cooling strategy than dry and compressed air for the turning of aluminum alloy 7075-T6.
Correction: D’Apolito, R.; Zagra, L. Uncemented Cups and Impaction Bone Grafting for Acetabular Bone Loss in Revision Hip Arthroplasty: A Review of Rationale, Indications, and Outcomes. Materials 2022, 15, 3728
Authors: D’Apolito Rocco , Zagra Luigi
Published: August 2022

The authors wish to make the following correction to this paper [...]
Analysing the Implications of Charging on Nanostructured Li2MnO3 Cathode Materials for Lithium-Ion Battery Performance
Authors: Mogashoa Tshidi , Ledwaba Raesibe Sylvia , Ngoepe Phuti Esrom
Published: August 2022

Capacity degradation and voltage fade of Li2MnO3 during cycling are the limiting factors for its practical use as a high-capacity lithium-ion battery cathode. Here, the simulated amorphisation and recrystallisation (A + R) technique is used, for generating nanoporous Li2MnO3 models of different lattice sizes (73 Å and 75 Å), under molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Charging was carried out by removing oxygen and lithium ions, with oxygen charge compensated for, to restrain the release of oxygen, resulting in Li2−xMnO3−x composites. Detailed analysis of these composites reveals that the models crystallised into multiple grains, with grain boundaries increasing with decreasing Li/O content, and the complex internal microstructures depicted a wealth of defects, leading to the evolution of distorted cubic spinel LiMn2O4, Li2MnO3, and LiMnO2 polymorphs. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns for the simulated systems revealed peak broadening in comparison with calculated XRD, also, the emergence of peak 2Θ ~ 18–25° and peak 2Θ ~ 29° were associated with the spinel phase. Lithium ions diffuse better on the nanoporous 73 Å structures than on the nanoporous 75 Å structures. Particularly, the Li1.00MnO2.00 shows a high diffusion coefficient value, compared to all concentrations. This study shed insights on the structural behaviour of Li2MnO3 cathodes during the charging mechanism, involving the concurrent removal of lithium and oxygen.