bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety-Specific Passive-Avoidant Leadership and Safety Compliance among Chinese Steel Workers: The Moderating Role of Safety Moral Belief and Organizational Size
Authors: Liu Lin , Mei Qiang , Jiang Lixin , Wu Jinnan , Liu Suxia , Wang Meng
Published: March 2021

Despite the documented relationship between active-approaching leadership behaviors and workplace safety, few studies have addressed whether and when passive-avoidant leadership affects safety behavior. This study examined the relationship between two types of safety-specific passive-avoidant leadership, i.e., safety-specific leader reward omission (SLRO) and safety-specific leader punishment omission (SLPO), and safety compliance, as well as the moderating effects of an individual difference (safety moral belief) and an organizational difference (organizational size) in these relationships. These predictions were tested on a sample of 704 steel workers in China. The results showed that, although both SLRO and SLPO are negatively related to safety compliance, SLPO demonstrated a greater effect than SLRO. Moreover, we found that steel workers with high levels of safety moral belief were more resistant to the negative effects of SLRO and SLPO on safety compliance. Although steel workers in large enterprises were more resistant to the negative effects of SLPO than those in small enterprises, the SLRO-compliance relationship is not contingent upon organizational size. The current study enriched the safety leadership literature by demonstrating the detrimental and relative effects of two types of safety-specific passive-avoidant leadership on safety compliance and by identifying two boundary conditions that can buffer these relationships among steel workers.
Living a Meaningful Life While Struggling with Mental Health: Challenging Aspects Regarding Personal Recovery Encountered in the Mental Health System
Authors: Damsgaard Janne Brammer , Angel Sanne
Published: March 2021

Based upon academic and clinical experience from Denmark, this article aims to highlight international research-based knowledge concerning challenging aspects about the understanding and implementation of recovery-oriented practice. Three key points are located: (a) An integrative biopsychosocial approach considering both the clinical and personal recovery perspectives is relevant for research and practice. (b) Barriers in implementing a recovery-oriented approach include both individual and systemic challenges. This is well documented in the research-based literature, highlighting the need for changes. (c) A shift from professional control to a service-user orientation is seen as crucial. Examples of a positive shift are seen, helping the health professionals in their development and practicing of skills and competences through education and personal formation. Within these perspectives, a paradigm shift from a one-dimensional biomedical approach to a biopsychosocial approach is suggested. Instead of focusing on rapid stabilisation and symptom relief as a clinical outcome, a humanistic approach building on social- and person-oriented values is fundamental for social and personal recovery leading to a meaningful life.
A Study of Natural Radioactivity Levels and Radon/Thoron Release Potential of Bedrock and Soil in Southeastern Ireland
Authors: Mousavi Aghdam Mirsina , Crowley Quentin , Rocha Carlos , Dentoni Valentina , Da Pelo Stefania , Long Stephanie , Savatier Maxime
Published: March 2021

Radon (222Rn) and thoron (220Rn) account for almost two-thirds of the annual average radiation dose received by the Irish population. A detailed study of natural radioactivity levels and radon and thoron exhalation rates was carried out in a legislatively designated “high radon” area, as based on existing indoor radon measurements. Indoor radon concentrations, airborne radiometric data and stream sediment geochemistry were collated, and a set of soil samples were taken from the study area. The exhalation rates of radon (E222Rn) and thoron (E220Rn) for collected samples were determined in the laboratory. The resultant data were classified based on geological and soil type parameters. Geological boundaries were found to be robust classifiers for radon exhalation rates and radon-related variables, whilst soil type classification better differentiates thoron exhalation rates and correlated variables. Linear models were developed to predict the radon and thoron exhalation rates of the study area. Distribution maps of radon and thoron exhalation rates (range: E222Rn [0.15–1.84] and E220Rn [475–3029] Bq m−2 h−1) and annual effective dose (with a mean value of 0.84 mSv y−1) are presented. For some parts of the study area, the calculated annual effective dose exceeds the recommended level of 1 mSv y−1, illustrating a significant radiation risk. Airborne radiometric data were found to be a powerful and fast tool for the prediction of geogenic radon and thoron risk. This robust method can be used for other areas where airborne radiometric data are available.
Impact of School-Based Oral Health Education on Vietnamese Adolescents: A 6-Month Study
Authors: Nguyen Vy Thi Nhat , Zaitsu Takashi , Oshiro Akiko , Tran Tai Tan , Nguyen Yen Hoang Thi , Kawaguchi Yoko , Aida Jun
Published: March 2021

We have evaluated the impact of a school-based intervention on oral health knowledge, behaviours, and oral health status of adolescents in Vietnam. This 6-month study included 462 adolescents aged 12 years from four selected schools in Hue City, Vietnam. The intervention group received a 15-min lecture by a dentist and hands-on session on mouth observation and toothbrushing skills. The control group did not engage in any educational activities during the follow-up period. Data were collected at baseline and 6 months through a survey questionnaire and clinical examination. The Debris Index was used for dental plaque; the Papillary, Marginal, Attached gingiva index for gingivitis; and the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth index (World Health Organization modification) for dental caries. Difference-in-difference analysis was used to compare changes between the groups. After 6 months, the control tended to show decreased toothbrushing frequency and increased dental plaque accumulation. The participants in the intervention group showed improved oral health knowledge (p < 0.01), behavior (p < 0.05), and hygiene (p < 0.001) compared to the control group. However, the intervention did not improve dental caries and gingivitis. A single school-based oral health education program can help adolescents improve oral health knowledge and prevent the deterioration of short-term oral health behavior and hygiene.
Healthcare Professionals’ Perspective on Implementing a Detector of Behavioural Disturbances in Long-Term Care Homes
Authors: Choukou Mohamed-Amine , Mbabaali Sophia , East Ryan
Published: March 2021

The number of Canadians with dementia is expected to rise to 674,000 in the years to come. Finding ways to monitor behavioural disturbance in patients with dementia (PwDs) is crucial. PwDs can unintentionally behave in ways that are harmful to them and the people around them, such as other residents or care providers. Current practice does not involve technology to monitor PwD behaviours. Events are reported randomly by nonstaff members or when a staff member notices the absence of a PwD from a scheduled event. This study aims to explore the potential of implementing a novel detector of behavioural disturbances (DBD) in long-term care homes by mapping the perceptions of healthcare professionals and family members about this technology. Qualitative information was gathered from a focus group involving eight healthcare professionals working in a tertiary care facility and a partner of a resident admitted in the same facility. Thematic analysis resulted in three themes: (A) the ability of the DBD to detect relevant dementia-related behavioural disturbances that are typical of PwD; (B) the characteristics of the DBD and clinical needs and preferences; (C) the integration of the DBD into daily routines. The results tend to confirm the adequacy of the DBD to the day-to-day needs for the detection of behavioural disturbances and hazardous behaviours. The DBD was considered to be useful and easy to use in the tertiary care facility examined in this study. The participants intend to use the DBD in the future, which means that it has a high degree of acceptance.
Assessment of Family, Peers, and Externalising Behaviour Dimensions in Adolescence: The Proposal of a Comprehensive Instrument (FPEB)
Authors: Caso Letizia , Greco Andrea , Florio Eleonora , Palena Nicola
Published: March 2021

In the context of externalising behaviour problems, risk factor research (RFR) focuses on risk and protective factors of juvenile delinquency, which can pertain to individual, system, and societal levels. Several instruments aiming at measuring these factors have been developed, but a comprehensive research tool is missing. The aim of the present study was to develop and validate a questionnaire, the “Family, Peers, and Externalising Behaviour in adolescence” (FPEB) as a tool for assessing adolescents’ tendency of externalising behaviour, the quality of relation with their parents, and peer-relations. FPEB was administered to 835 Italian students (36.8% males, age M = 13.81, SD = 1.54) together with the Moral Disengagement questionnaire to test concurrent validity. Data about socio-demographics and school performance were also collected. An EFA (Promax rotation, subsample A, n = 444) resulted in a four-factor structure that was corroborated by a CFA (subsample B, n = 388). The factors were “externalising behaviour” (var 13.16%), “peer relations difficulties” (var 11.10%), “Family conflict” (var 8.32%), and “lack of family negotiation” (var 7.11%) and showed good internal consistency (all α ≥ 0.65). There were differences between males and females in the correlational patterns of the four factors. The FPEB factors also showed good concurrent validity: two of the four factors (“lack of family negotiation” and “externalising behaviour”) and the total score of the scale correlated with the “Moral disengagement scale”, whereas peer relation difficulties did not. Further analyses also showed gender differences (except for “peer relations difficulties”) and an association between students’ school performance and “externalising behaviour”, “family conflict”, and the total FPEB scores. We concluded that the FPEB is a tool that is potentially useful to assess risk and protective factors and to plan targeted interventions (focusing on the specific area). Limitations and suggestions for further improvements are also discussed.
Assessment of Hygienic Practices in Beef Cattle Slaughterhouses and Retail Shops in Bishoftu, Ethiopia: Implications for Public Health
Authors: Gutema Fanta D. , Agga Getahun E. , Abdi Reta D. , Jufare Alemnesh , Duchateau Luc , De Zutter Lieven , Gabriël Sarah
Published: March 2021

Understanding the potential drivers of microbial meat contamination along the entire meat supply chain is needed to identify targets for interventions to reduce the number of meatborne bacterial outbreaks. We assessed the hygienic practices in cattle slaughterhouses (28 employees) and retail shops (127 employees) through face-to-face interviews and direct personal observations. At the slaughterhouses, stunning, de-hiding and evisceration in vertical position, carcass washing and separate storage of offal were the identified good practices. Lack of hot water baths, absence of a chilling room, infrequent hand washing, insufficiently trained staff and irregular medical check-up were practices that lead to unhygienic handling of carcasses. At the retail shops, cleaning equipment using soap and hot water (81%), storing unsold meat in refrigerators (92%), concrete floors and white painted walls and ceilings were good practices. Adjacently displaying offal and meat (39%), lack of a cold chain, wrapping meat with plastic bags and newspapers, using a plastic or wooden cutting board (57%), infrequent washing of equipment and floors, and inadequately trained employees were practices that could result in unhygienic handling of beef. Our study identified unhygienic practices both at the slaughterhouses and retail shops that can predispose the public to meatborne infections, which could be improved through training and implementation of quality control systems.
Research on the Development of Religious Tourism and the Sustainable Development of Rural Environment and Health
Authors: Lin Hsiao-Hsien , Ling Ying , Lin Jao-Chuan , Liang Zhou-Fu
Published: March 2021

The purpose of the research is to explore how to reach a consensus on the development of cultural tourism and the sustainability of the entire rural environment from the perspective of different rights holders. Using Beigang Township in Taiwan as a case study, we first conducted a questionnaire survey and analyzed 600 respondents by statistical verifications method, then used an interview method to compile suggestions from experts and scholars, and finally conducted a field survey to collect actual information. After summarizing, organizing, and analyzing all the data, the study was examined in a multivariate manner. This study concludes that creating parking spaces, providing a comfortable resting place, facilitating the exchange of ideas, and improving the environmental literacy of the public will increase the public attention to issues such as village visibility, people interaction, ancient architecture, culture and totems, public health and transportation, and entrepreneurial development, as well as address the concerns of local residents and some men and people over 31–40 years old. By doing so, we can improve community building and security, enrich cultural resources, build and develop sufficient industries, stabilize prices, obtain a safe and hygienic village environment, increase the desire to revisit, become a recommendation for family travel, and achieve the goal of sustainable development of rural environment and health.
Trajectories of Depressive Symptoms and Anxiety during Pregnancy and Associations with Pregnancy Stress
Authors: Lee Hyejung , Kim Ki-Eun , Kim Mi-Young , Park Chang Gi , Han Jung Yeol , Choi Eun Jeong
Published: March 2021

The purposes of this study were to investigate the trajectory groups of depressive symptoms and anxiety in women during pregnancy and to identify the factors associated with those groups. Participants were recruited from the outpatient clinic of a women’s health hospital in Seoul, Korea. Pregnant women (n = 136) completed a survey questionnaire that included questions on depressive symptoms, anxiety, and pregnancy stress; additionally, their saliva was tested for cortisol hormone levels three times during their pregnancies. The group-based trajectory modeling approach was used to identify latent trajectory groups. Ordinal logistic regressions were used to explore the association of latent trajectory groups with sociodemographic factors and pregnancy stress. Three trajectory groups of depressive symptoms were identified: low-stable (70%), moderate-stable (25%), and increased (5%). Four trajectory groups of anxiety were identified: very low-stable (10%), low-stable (67%), moderate-stable (18%), and high-stable (5%). The only factor associated with both the depressive symptoms and anxiety trajectory groups was pregnancy stress (p < 0.001). Most participants showed stable emotional status; however, some participants experienced higher levels of depressive symptoms and anxiety related to higher pregnancy stress. These pregnant women may need additional care from healthcare providers to promote their wellbeing during pregnancy.
Exposure to Perfluoroalkyl Substances and Mortality for COVID-19: A Spatial Ecological Analysis in the Veneto Region (Italy)
Authors: Catelan Dolores , Biggeri Annibale , Russo Francesca , Gregori Dario , Pitter Gisella , Da Re Filippo , Fletcher Tony , Canova Cristina
Published: March 2021

Background: In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is interest in assessing if per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposures are associated with any increased risk of COVID-19 or its severity, given the evidence of immunosuppression by some PFAS. The objective of this paper is to evaluate at the ecological level if a large area (Red Zone) of the Veneto Region, where residents were exposed for decades to drinking water contaminated by PFAS, showed higher mortality for COVID-19 than the rest of the region. Methods: We fitted a Bayesian ecological regression model with spatially and not spatially structured random components on COVID-19 mortality at the municipality level (period between 21 February and 15 April 2020). The model included education score, background all-cause mortality (for the years 2015–2019), and an indicator for the Red Zone. The two random components are intended to adjust for potential hidden confounders. Results: The COVID-19 crude mortality rate ratio for the Red Zone was 1.55 (90% Confidence Interval 1.25; 1.92). From the Bayesian ecological regression model adjusted for education level and baseline all-cause mortality, the rate ratio for the Red Zone was 1.60 (90% Credibility Interval 0.94; 2.51). Conclusion: In conclusion, we observed a higher mortality risk for COVID-19 in a population heavily exposed to PFAS, which was possibly explained by PFAS immunosuppression, bioaccumulation in lung tissue, or pre-existing disease being related to PFAS.
Why Exercise at Work: Development of the Office Exercise Behavior Determinants Scale
Authors: Zhang Tianmei , Ham Jaap , Ren Xipei
Published: March 2021

The constant increase in work pressure and the penetration of labor-saving technologies have significantly reduced physical activity in office-based work routines, threatening employees’ physical and mental well-being. Encouraging physical exercises at the office seems a potential solution. However, while there is a wealth of research into occupational health and workplace exercise promotion, little is known about which factors can influence the engagement of physical exercises in the office context. It is crucial to understand these determinants, in order to support the design of office exercise promoting intervention. This study explored the determinants of office workers’ exercise behavior by proposing and developing the Office Exercise Behavior Determinants (OEBD) scale based on existing behavioral and environmental research. The OEBD scale was assessed through an online questionnaire study involving 479 office workers. The results indicated that four factors (Intrinsic Motivation, Extrinsic Motivation, Social Environment, and Work Environment) contribute to office workers’ exercise behavior. Furthermore, confirmatory factor analysis of our obtained data provided evidence for the internal validity of the OEBD scale. Thereby, this research can support increased office exercise with valid measurements for behavioral determinants.
Associated Factors and Survival Outcomes for Breast Conserving Surgery versus Mastectomy among New Zealand Women with Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Abrahimi Mohammad Shoaib , Elwood Mark , Lawrenson Ross , Campbell Ian , Tin Tin Sandar
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to investigate type of loco-regional treatment received, associated treatment factors and mortality outcomes in New Zealand women with early-stage breast cancer who were eligible for breast conserving surgery (BCS). This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from the Auckland and Waikato Breast Cancer Registers and involves 6972 women who were diagnosed with early-stage primary breast cancer (I-IIIa) between 1 January 2000 and 31 July 2015, were eligible for BCS and had received one of four loco-regional treatments: breast conserving surgery (BCS), BCS followed by radiotherapy (BCS + RT), mastectomy (MTX) or MTX followed by radiotherapy (MTX + RT), as their primary cancer treatment. About 66.1% of women received BCS + RT, 8.4% received BCS only, 21.6% received MTX alone and 3.9% received MTX + RT. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify demographic and clinical factors associated with the receipt of the BCS + RT (standard treatment). Differences in the uptake of BCS + RT were present across patient demographic and clinical factors. BCS + RT was less likely amongst patients who were older (75+ years old), were of Asian ethnicity, resided in impoverished areas or areas within the Auckland region and were treated in a public healthcare facility. Additionally, BCS + RT was less likely among patients diagnosed symptomatically, diagnosed during 2000–2004, had an unknown tumour grade, negative/unknown oestrogen and progesterone receptor status or tumour sizes ≥ 20 mm, ≤50 mm and had nodal involvement. Competing risk regression analysis was undertaken to estimate the breast cancer-specific mortality associated with each of the four loco-regional treatments received. Over a median follow-up of 8.8 years, women who received MTX alone had a higher risk of breast cancer-specific mortality (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.38, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05–1.82) compared to women who received BCS + RT. MTX + RT and BCS alone did not have any statistically different risk of mortality when compared to BCS + RT. Further inquiry is needed as to any advantages BCS + RT may have over MTX alternatives.
The Effects of Abdominal Hypopressive Training on Postural Control and Deep Trunk Muscle Activation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Moreno-Muñoz María del Mar , Hita-Contreras Fidel , Estudillo-Martínez María Dolores , Aibar-Almazán Agustín , Castellote-Caballero Yolanda , Bergamin Marco , Gobbo Stefano , Cruz-Díaz David
Published: March 2021

Background: Abdominal Hypopressive Training (AHT) provides postural improvement, and enhances deep trunk muscle activation. However, until recently, there was a lack of scientific literature supporting these statements. The major purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of AHT on posture control and deep trunk muscle function. Methods: 125 female participants aged 18–60 were randomly allocated to the Experimental Group (EG), consisting of two sessions of 30 min per week for 8 weeks of AHT, or the Control Group (CG), who did not receive any treatment. Postural control was measured with a stabilometric platform to assess the static balance and the activation of deep trunk muscles (specifically the Transverse Abdominal muscle (TrA)), which was measured by real-time ultrasound imaging. Results: The groups were homogeneous at baseline. Statistical differences were identified between both groups after intervention in the Surface of the Center of Pressure (CoP) Open-Eyes (S-OE) (p = 0.001, Cohen’s d = 0.60) and the Velocity of CoP under both conditions; Open-Eyes (V-OE) (p = 0.001, Cohen´s d = 0.63) and Close-Eyes (V-CE) (p = 0.016, Cohen´s d = 0.016), with the EG achieving substantial improvements. Likewise, there were statistically significant differences between measurements over time for the EG on S-OE (p < 0.001, Cohen´s d = 0.99); V-OE (p = 0.038, Cohen´s d = 0.27); V-CE (p = 0.006, Cohen´s d = 0.39), anteroposterior movements of CoP with Open-Eyes (RMSY-OE) (p = 0.038, Cohen´s d = 0.60) and activity of TrA under contraction conditions (p < 0.001, Cohen´s d = 0.53). Conclusions: The application of eight weeks of AHT leads to positive outcomes in posture control, as well as an improvement in the deep trunk muscle contraction in the female population.
Convalescent Hospital Use among Young and Older Female Cancer Survivors
Authors: Park Hyesun , Kim Kisook
Published: March 2021

This study analyzed national health data to assess convalescent hospital use among female cancer survivors according to age group. This retrospective study collected data from women recovering from breast, colon, and stomach cancer, based on health insurance claim data over 5 years (2013–2017), from the Korea Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (KHIRA). Interestingly, the number of young and older women who were treated in convalescent hospitals increased every year. In addition, total medical expenses increased in both groups. The annual rate of convalescent hospitalization was higher in older women (8.29~16.39%) than in younger women (4.01~7.46%). The total yearly medical expenses of cancer survivors in convalescent hospitals increased in both age groups and all cancer types, and the range of increase rate was from 7.7% in young breast cancer survivors to 32.2% in young colon cancer survivors. Visit days and days of medication increased noticeably in young colon cancer survivors. Taken together, these data have confirmed the importance of developing standard guidelines for inpatient management in convalescent hospitals and the health management of women cancer survivors by cancer type. This includes establishing a health management system and medical policies.
Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis of Riptortus pedestris (Hemiptera: Alydidae) to Characterize Wing Formation across All Developmental Stages
Authors: Fu Siying , Duan Yujie , Wang Siqi , Ren Yipeng , Bu Wenjun
Published: March 2021

Riptortus pedestris (Hemiptera: Alydidae) is a major agricultural pest in East Asia that causes considerable economic losses to the soybean crop each year. However, the molecular mechanisms governing the growth and development of R. pedestris have not been fully elucidated. In this study, the Illumina HiSeq6000 platform was employed to perform de novo transcriptome assembly and determine the gene expression profiles of this species across all developmental stages, including eggs, first-, second-, third-, fourth-, and fifth-instar nymphs, and adults. In this study, a total of 60,058 unigenes were assembled from numerous raw reads, exhibiting an N50 length of 2126 bp and an average length of 1199 bp, and the unigenes were annotated and classified with various databases, such as the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG), and Gene Ontology (GO). Furthermore, various numbers of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were calculated through pairwise comparisons of all life stages, and some of these DEGs were associated with immunity, metabolism, and development by GO and KEGG enrichment. In addition, 35,158 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and 715,604 potential single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified from the seven transcriptome libraries of R. pedestris. Finally, we identified and summarized ten wing formation-related signaling pathways, and the molecular properties and expression levels of five wing development-related genes were analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR for all developmental stages of R. pedestris. Taken together, the results of this study may establish a foundation for future research investigating developmental processes and wing formation in hemimetabolous insects and may provide valuable data for pest control efforts attempting to reduce the economic damage caused by this pest.
Cyber Threats to Industrial IoT: A Survey on Attacks and Countermeasures
Authors: Tsiknas Konstantinos , Taketzis Dimitrios , Demertzis Konstantinos , Skianis Charalabos
Published: March 2021

In today’s Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) environment, where different systems interact with the physical world, the state proposed by the Industry 4.0 standards can lead to escalating vulnerabilities, especially when these systems receive data streams from multiple intermediaries, requiring multilevel security approaches, in addition to link encryption. At the same time taking into account the heterogeneity of the systems included in the IIoT ecosystem and the non-institutionalized interoperability in terms of hardware and software, serious issues arise as to how to secure these systems. In this framework, given that the protection of industrial equipment is a requirement inextricably linked to technological developments and the use of the IoT, it is important to identify the major vulnerabilities and the associated risks and threats and to suggest the most appropriate countermeasures. In this context, this study provides a description of the attacks against IIoT systems, as well as a thorough analysis of the solutions for these attacks, as they have been proposed in the most recent literature.
Accuracy, Labor-Time and Patient-Reported Outcomes with Partially versus Fully Digital Workflow for Flapless Guided Dental Implants Insertion—A Randomized Clinical Trial with One-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Cristache Corina Marilena , Burlibasa Mihai , Tudor Ioana , Totu Eugenia Eftimie , Di Francesco Fabrizio , Moraru Liliana
Published: March 2021

(1) Background: Prosthetically-driven implant positioning is a prerequisite for long-term successful treatment. Transferring the planned implant position information to the clinical setting could be done using either static or dynamic guided techniques. The 3D model of the bone and surrounding structures is obtained via cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and the patient’s oral condition can be acquired conventionally and then digitalized using a desktop scanner, partially digital workflow (PDW) or digitally with the aid of an intraoral scanner (FDW). The aim of the present randomized clinical trial (RCT) was to compare the accuracy of flapless dental implants insertion in partially edentulous patients with a static surgical template obtained through PDW and FDW. Patient outcome and time spent from data collection to template manufacturing were also compared. (2) Methods: 66 partially edentulous sites (at 49 patients) were randomly assigned to a PDW or FDW for guided implant insertion. Planned and placed implants position were compared by assessing four deviation parameters: 3D error at the entry point, 3D error at the apex, angular deviation, and vertical deviation at entry point. (3) Results: A total of 111 implants were inserted. No implant loss during osseointegration or mechanical and technical complications occurred during the first-year post-implants loading. The mean error at the entry point was 0.44 mm (FDW) and 0.85 (PDW), p ≤ 0.00; at implant apex, 1.03 (FDW) and 1.48 (PDW), p ≤ 0.00; the mean angular deviation, 2.12° (FDW) and 2.48° (PDW), p = 0.03 and the mean depth deviation, 0.45 mm (FDW) and 0.68 mm (PDW), p ≤ 0.00; (4) Conclusions: Despite the statistically significant differences between the groups, and in the limits of the present study, full digital workflow as well as partially digital workflow are predictable methods for accurate prosthetically driven guided implants insertion.
Elevated CSF LRG and Decreased Alzheimer’s Disease Biomarkers in Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Vanninen Aleksi , Nakajima Madoka , Miyajima Masakazu , Rauramaa Tuomas , Kokki Merja , Musialowicz Tadeusz , Mäkinen Petra M. , Herukka Sanna-Kaisa , Koivisto Anne M. , Jääskeläinen Juha E. , Hiltunen Mikko , Leinonen Ville
Published: March 2021

Leucine-rich-alpha-2-glykoprotein (LRG) is suggested as a potential biomarker for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). Our goal was to compare the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) LRG levels between 119 iNPH patients and 33 age-matched controls and with the shunt responses and the brain biopsy Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology among the iNPH patients. CSF LRG, Aβ1-42, P-tau181, and T-tau were measured by using commercial ELISAs. The LRG levels in the CSF were significantly increased in the iNPH patients (p < 0.001) as compared to the controls, regardless of the AD pathology. However, CSF LRG did not correlate with the shunt response in contrast to the previous findings. The CSF AD biomarkers, i.e., Aβ1-42, T-tau, and P-tau correlated with the brain biopsy AD pathology as expected but were systematically lower in the iNPH patients when compared to the controls (<0.001). Our findings support that the LRG levels in the CSF are potentially useful for the diagnostics of iNPH, independent of the brain AD pathology, but contrary to previous findings, not for predicting the shunt response. Our findings also suggest a need for specific reference values of the CSF AD biomarkers for the diagnostics of comorbid AD pathology in the iNPH patients.
High KDM1A Expression Associated with Decreased CD8+T Cells Reduces the Breast Cancer Survival Rate in Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Kim Hyung Suk , Son Byoung Kwan , Kwon Mi Jung , Kim Dong-Hoon , Min Kyueng-Whan
Published: March 2021

Background: Lysine-specific demethylase 1A (KDM1A) plays an important role in epigenetic regulation in malignant tumors and promotes cancer invasion and metastasis by blocking the immune response and suppressing cancer surveillance activities. The aim of this study was to analyze survival, genetic interaction networks and anticancer immune responses in breast cancer patients with high KDM1A expression and to explore candidate target drugs. Methods: We investigated clinicopathologic parameters, specific gene sets, immunologic relevance, pathway-based networks and in vitro drug response according to KDM1A expression in 456 and 789 breast cancer patients from the Hanyang university Guri Hospital (HYGH) and The Cancer Genome Atlas, respectively. Results: High KDM1A expression was associated with a low survival rate in patients with breast cancer. In analyses of immunologic gene sets, high KDM1A expression correlated with low immune responses. In silico flow cytometry results revealed low abundances of CD8+T cells and high programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in those with high KDM1A expression. High KDM1A expression was associated with a decrease in the anticancer immune response in breast cancer. In pathway-based networks, KDM1A was linked directly to pathways related to the androgen receptor signaling pathway and indirectly to the immune pathway and cell cycle. We found that alisertib effectively inhibited breast cancer cell lines with high KDM1A expression. Conclusions: Strategies utilizing KDM1A may contribute to better clinical management/research for patients with breast cancer.
Trends of COVID-19 Admissions in an Italian Hub during the Pandemic Peak: Large Retrospective Study Focused on Older Subjects
Authors: Ticinesi Andrea , Nouvenne Antonio , Cerundolo Nicoletta , Parise Alberto , Prati Beatrice , Guerra Angela , Meschi Tiziana
Published: March 2021

Older multimorbid frail subjects have been severely involved in the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic. The aim of this retrospective study is to compare the clinical features and outcomes of patients admitted in different phases of the outbreak in a COVID-19 hospital hub, with a particular focus on age, multimorbidity, and functional dependency. The clinical records of 1264 patients with clinical and radiological features compatible with COVID-19 pneumonia admitted in February–June, 2020, were analyzed, retrieving demographical, clinical, laboratory data, and outcomes. All variables were compared after stratification by the period of admission (first phase: rising slope of pandemic wave; second phase: plateau and falling slope), age, results of the first reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test for detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), multimorbidity (≥2 chronic diseases), and presence of disability. Factors independently associated with hospital mortality were determined by multivariate forward-selection logistic regression. Patients admitted during the second phase were older, more frequently multimorbid, disabled, and of female gender. However, on admission they exhibited milder respiratory impairment (PaO2/FiO2 268, IQR 174–361, vs. 238, IQR 126–327 mmHg, p < 0.001) and lower mortality (22% vs. 27%, p < 0.001). Age, respiratory exchanges, positive RT-PCR test, number of chronic diseases (odds ratio (OR) 1.166, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.036–1.313, p = 0.011), and disability (OR 1.927, 95% CI 1.027–3.618, p = 0.022) were positively associated with mortality, while admission during the second phase exhibited an inverse association (OR 0.427, 95% CI 0.260–0.700, p = 0.001). In conclusion, older multimorbid patients were mainly hospitalized during the second phase of the pandemic wave. The prognosis was strongly influenced by the COVID-19 phenotype and period of admission, not just by age, multimorbidity, and disability.
The Role of Extracellular Matrix Components in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Derkacz Alicja , Olczyk Paweł , Olczyk Krystyna , Komosinska-Vassev Katarzyna
Published: March 2021

The remodeling of extracellular matrix (ECM) within the intestine tissues, which simultaneously involves an increased degradation of ECM components and excessive intestinal fibrosis, is a defining trait of the progression of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), which include ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). The increased activity of proteases, especially matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), leads to excessive degradation of the extracellular matrix and the release of protein and glycoprotein fragments, previously joined with the extracellular matrix, into the circulation. MMPs participate in regulating the functions of the epithelial barrier, the immunological response, and the process of wound healing or intestinal fibrosis. At a later stage of fibrosis during IBD, excessive formation and deposition of the matrix is observed. To assess changes in the extracellular matrix, quantitative measurement of the concentration in the blood of markers dependent on the activity of proteases, involved in the breakdown of extracellular matrix proteins as well as markers indicating the formation of a new ECM, has recently been proposed. This paper describes attempts to use the quantification of ECM components as markers to predict intestinal fibrosis and evaluate the healing process of the gut. The markers which reflect increased ECM degradation, together with the ones which show the process of creating a new matrix during IBD, allow the attainment of important information regarding the changes in the intestinal tissue, epithelial integrity and extracellular matrix remodeling. This paper contains evidence confirming that ECM remodeling is an integral part of directional cell signaling in the progression of IBD, and not only a basis for the ongoing processes.
Review of International Clinical Guidelines Related to Prenatal Screening during Monochorionic Pregnancies
Authors: Nicholas Lauren , Fischbein Rebecca , Ernst-Milner Stephanie , Wani Roshni
Published: March 2021

We conducted a search for international clinical guidelines related to prenatal screening during monochorionic pregnancies. We found 25 resources from 13 countries/regions and extracted information related to general screening as well as screening related to specific monochorionic complications, including twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), selective fetal growth restriction (SFGR), and twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS). Findings reveal universal recommendation for the early establishment of chorionicity. Near-universal recommendation was found for bi-weekly ultrasounds beginning around gestational week 16; routine TTTS and SFGR surveillance comprised of regularly assessing fetal growth, amniotic fluids, and bladder visibility; and fetal anatomical scanning between gestational weeks 18–22. Conflicting recommendation was found for nuchal translucency screening; second-trimester scanning for cervical length; routine TAPS screening; and routine umbilical artery, umbilical vein, and ductus venosus assessment. We conclude that across international agencies and organizations, clinical guidelines related to monochorionic prenatal screening vary considerably. This discord raises concerns related to equitable access to evidence-based monochorionic prenatal care; the ability to create reliable international datasets to help improve the quality of monochorionic research; and the promotion of patient safety and best monochorionic outcomes. Patients globally may benefit from the coming together of international bodies to develop inclusive universal monochorionic prenatal screening standards.
The Association of Oxidative Stress in the Uvular Mucosa with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A Clinical Study
Authors: Olszewska Ewa , Rogalska Joanna , Brzóska Małgorzata M.
Published: March 2021

The hypothesis that individuals with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) demonstrate oxidative stress in the uvular mucosa that correlates with OSAS occurrence was investigated. A total of 128 participants (mean age 45.8, mean body mass index 30.7, female–male ratio 1:20) were divided into the non-OSAS group (apnea–hypopnea index—AHI < 5) and OSAS-group (AHI ≥ 5), in which mild (5 ≤ AHI < 15), moderate (15 ≤ AHI < 30), and severe (AHI ≥ 30) sub-groups were distinguished. Laryngological examination, Epworth Sleep Scale questionnaire, and home sleep study were performed to obtain AHI, mean oxygen saturation, and lowest oxygen saturation. Total oxidative status (TOS) and total antioxidative status (TAS) were assayed in the uvular mucosa taken during palatoplasty or palatopharyngoplasty. The severity of oxidative stress was expressed as oxidative stress index (OSI). Oxidative/reductive imbalance was noted in the mucosa of the uvula of OSAS individuals, and TAS of the uvular mucosa negatively correlated with the severity of this syndrome. TOS and OSI in the mild, moderate, and severe OSAS were higher than in the non-OSAS group, whereas TAS of the uvular mucosa in the OSAS group was lower compared to the non-OSAS group. In conclusion, oxidative stress in the uvular mucosa is associated with the occurrence of OSAS.
Design and Comparison of Image Hashing Methods: A Case Study on Cork Stopper Unique Identification
Authors: Fitas Ricardo , Rocha Bernardo , Costa Valter , Sousa Armando
Published: March 2021

Cork stoppers were shown to have unique characteristics that allow their use for authentication purposes in an anti-counterfeiting effort. This authentication process relies on the comparison between a user’s cork image and all registered cork images in the database of genuine items. With the growth of the database, this one-to-many comparison method becomes lengthier and therefore usefulness decreases. To tackle this problem, the present work designs and compares hashing-assisted image matching methods that can be used in cork stopper authentication. The analyzed approaches are the discrete cosine transform, wavelet transform, Radon transform, and other methods such as difference hash and average hash. The most successful approach uses a 1024-bit hash length and difference hash method providing a 98% accuracy rate. By transforming the image matching into a hash matching problem, the approach presented becomes almost 40 times faster when compared to the literature.
Algorithm of Berthing and Maneuvering for Catamaran Unmanned Surface Vehicle Based on Ship Maneuverability
Authors: Wu Gongxing , Zhao Mingyuan , Cong Yu , Hu ZhiWen , Li Guofu
Published: March 2021

In the complex port environment, ship berthing manipulation is one of the most difficult operations. In this study, an algorithm of berthing and maneuvering was designed for a catamaran unmanned surface vehicle (USV), which is used for port patrol and protection. Considering the influence of wind, waves, and currents, the mathematical model of the maneuvering movement for the twin-hull and twin-propeller USV was established. Based on the Visual Studio development platform, the USV’s berthing manipulation simulation software was designed. Through the turning simulation experiment of the catamaran USV under different differential rotation speeds of the twin propellers, the relationship between the ship’s turning radius and the propeller speed difference was obtained. A simulation experiment of decelerating and stopping ships at different speeds was carried out, which can provide a reference for speed control when berthing. A berthing maneuvering algorithm based on ship maneuverability was proposed. USV’s berthing algorithm includes three stages: approach process, turning process, and berthing process. In the approach process, the appropriate approach speed was select according to the rotation angle. In the turning process, the right and left propeller speed differences were select. In the berthing process, the berthing speed was controlled according to the berthing distance. In the port environment, a berthing simulation experiment for catamaran USV was carried out. The simulation results show that based on the berthing and maneuvering algorithm, the efficiency and safety of catamaran USV berthing can be improved.
Analytical Modeling and Design of Novel Conical Halbach Permanent Magnet Couplings for Underwater Propulsion
Authors: Li Yukai , Hu Yuli , Guo Youguang , Song Baowei , Mao Zhaoyong
Published: March 2021

Permanent magnet couplings can convert a dynamic seal into a static seal, thereby greatly improving the stability of the underwater propulsion unit. In order to make full use of the tail space and improve the transmitted torque capability, a conical Halbach permanent magnet coupling (C-HPMC) is proposed in this paper. The C-HPMC combines multiple cylindrical HPMCs with different sizes into an approximately conical structure. Compared with the conical permanent magnet couplings in our previous work, the novel C-HPMC has better torque performance and is easy to process. The analytical calculation method of transmitted torque of C-HPMC is proposed on the basis of torque calculation of the three common types of HPMCs. The accuracy of the torque calculation of the three HPMCs is verified, and the torque performance of the three HPMCSs of different sizes is compared and discussed. The “optimal type selection” method is proposed and applied in the design of C-HPMC. Finally, on the basis of torque analysis calculation and axial force calculation, a complete flowchart of the design and performance analysis of C-HPMC is described.
Mitigation of Vortex-Induced Vibration of Cylinders Using Cactus-Shaped Cross Sections in Subcritical Flow
Authors: Wang Jialu , Chen Fabo , Shi Chen , Yu Jiuzheng
Published: March 2021

Flexible cylinders, such as marine risers, often experience sustained vortex-induced vibrations (VIVs). Installing helical strakes on a riser is the most widely used technique to mitigate VIVs. This study was inspired by the giant Saguaro Cacti which can withstand strong wind with a shallow root system. In this study, numerical simulations of flow past a stationary cylinder of a cactus-shaped cross-section in a two-dimensional flow field at a subcritical Reynolds number of 3900 were performed. Results show that cylinders of a cactus-shaped cross-section have a lower lift coefficient without increasing drag compared to those of a circular cylinder. VIV experiments on a single flexible pipe as well as on a set of two tandem-arranged flexible pipes were conducted at different reduced velocities to investigate the effects of the streamwise spacing and wake of the cactus-like body shape on VIV mitigation. Experimental results show that the cactus-like body shape can mitigate VIV responses of the cylinder at upstream position with no cost of increased drag; however, similar to helical strakes, the efficiency of VIV mitigation for the cylinder at downstream position is reduced. Although the cactus-like body shapes tested in this study were not optimized for oscillation suppression, still this study suggests that modification of the cross-sectional shape to a well-designed cactus-like shape has potentials to be used as an alternative technology to mitigate VIV of marine risers.