bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Hi-Tech Devices in Assessment of Corneal Healing in Patients with Neurotrophic Keratopathy
Authors: Inferrera Leandro , Aragona Emanuela , Wylęgała Adam , Valastro Antonio , Latino Gianluigi , Postorino Elisa I. , Gargano Romana , Orzechowska-Wylęgała Bogusława , Wylęgała Edward , Roszkowska Anna M.
Published: March 2022

To prove the role of high-tech investigation in monitoring corneal morphological changes in patients with neurotrophic keratopathy (NK) using Keratograph 5M (K5M) and anterior segment OCT (AS-OCT), corneal healing was monitored with Keratograph 5M (Oculus, Wetzlar, Germany) and AS-OCT (DRI, Triton, Topcon, Tokyo, Japan) in 13 patients (8F and 5M), aged from 24 to 93 years (67.8 ± 19) with severe NK, who were treated with Cenegermin 0.002% (20 μg/mL) (Oxervate®, Dompè, Farmaceutici Spa, Milan, Italy). The surface defects were evaluated on Keratograph 5M with ImageJ software and the corneal thickness variations were measured using DRI-Triton OCT software. Instrumental procedures were performed at baseline, and after 4 and 8 weeks of the treatment, respectively. The main outcome measures were reduction of the ulcers’ area and corneal thickness recovery. The mean area of the corneal ulcers was reduced between baseline and 4 weeks examination in all patients, and at 8 weeks all ulcers were completely healed. An increase of the corneal thickness was evidenced between the baseline visit and after the 4- and 8-week follow-up, respectively. Additionally, only in collaborating subjects the In Vivo Confocal Microscopy (IVCM) was performed with HRT Rostock Cornea Module (Heidelberg Eng GmbH) to study the corneal nerves fibres. High-tech diagnostics with K5M, AS-OCT and IVCM proved useful in the assessment of corneal morphology and the healing process in patients with NK and could be extended to assess other corneal pathologies.
Body Composition Assessment by Air-Displacement Plethysmography Compared to Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry in Full-Term and Preterm Aged Three to Five Years
Authors: van Beijsterveldt Inge A. L. P. , Beunders Victoria A. A. , Bijlsma Alja , Vermeulen Marijn J. , Joosten Koen F. M. , Hokken-Koelega Anita C. S.
Published: March 2022

It is important to monitor body composition longitudinally, especially in children with atypical body composition trajectories. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) can be used and reference values are available. Air-displacement plethysmography (ADP) is a relatively new technique, but reference values are lacking. In addition, estimates of fat-free mass density (Dffm), needed in ADP calculations, are based on children aged >8 years and may not be valid for younger children. We, therefore, aimed to investigate whether DXA and ADP results were comparable in young children aged 3–5 years, either born full-term or preterm, and if Dffm estimates in the ADP algorithm could be improved. In 154 healthy children born full-term and 67 born < 30 weeks of the inverse pressure-volume gestation, aged 3–5 years, body composition was measured using ADP (BODPOD, with default Lohman Dffm estimates) and DXA (Lunar Prodigy). We compared fat mass (FM), fat mass percentage (FM%) and fat-free mass (FFM), between ADP and DXA using Bland–Altman analyses, in both groups. Using a 3-compartment model as reference method, we revised the Dffm estimates for ADP. In full-term-born children, Bland–Altman analyses showed considerable fixed and proportional bias for FM, FM%, and FFM. After revising the Dffm estimates, agreement between ADP and DXA improved, with mean differences (LoA) for FM, FM%, and FFM of −0.67 kg (−2.38; 1.04), −3.54% (−13.44; 6.36), and 0.5 kg (−1.30; 2.30), respectively, but a small fixed and proportional bias remained. The differences between ADP and DXA were larger in preterm-born children, even after revising Dffm estimates. So, despite revised and improved sex and age-specific Dffm estimates, results of ADP and DXA remained not comparable and should not be used interchangeably in the longitudinal assessment of body composition in children aged 3–5 years, and especially not in very preterm-born children of that age.
Triple-Negative Apocrine Breast Carcinoma Has Better Prognosis despite Poor Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Hu Taobo , Liu Yiqiang , Wu Jinbo , Hu Xuejiao Lina , Zhao Guiyang , Liang Baosheng , Wang Shu , Long Mengping
Published: March 2022

Apocrine carcinoma is a rare subtype of invasive ductal breast cancer that shows apocrine differentiation and largely triple-negative immunohistology. Triple-negative breast cancers are known to have more aggressive clinical courses. However, unlike most other subtypes, it is reported that triple-negative apocrine carcinoma (TNAC) has a better prognosis. Due to the scarcity of reported studies, our knowledge regarding its clinical behavior, prognosis and response to therapy is very limited. In this study, we retrospectively retrieved 41 triple-negative apocrine carcinoma cases from our breast cancer database, with an average follow-up of 32.8 months. It was found that TNAC had a poorer response to neoadjuvant therapy but a better prognosis than other nonapocrine types of triple-negative breast cancer. Meanwhile, TNAC has a low proliferative nature, as indicated by its low Ki-67 index. An updated analysis of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database showed that chemotherapy did not improve breast-cancer-specific survival in TNAC patients. Our results suggest that TNAC is a special subtype of triple-negative breast cancer with a better short-term prognosis despite poor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Metallic versus Non-Metallic Cerclage Cables System in Periprosthetic Hip Fracture Treatment: Single-Institution Experience at a Minimum 1-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Speranza Attilio , Massafra Carlo , Pecchia Stefano , Di Niccolo Riccardo , Iorio Raffaele , Ferretti Andrea
Published: March 2022

Metallic cerclage cables are reliable and cost-effective internal fixation devices, which are largely used in surgical practice for the treatment of periprosthetic fractures. Nevertheless, complications connected with their use have been described in the literature, including the following: third-body generation, failure and consequent migration, fraying, allergies, and injury to the surgical team. The development of new materials offers alternatives to traditional metallic cables. This study compares the outcomes between two groups of patients affected by periprosthetic hip fractures, treated with titanium cables or with ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPe) iso-elastic cables. Our retrospective study aims to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of titanium cables and UHMWPe iso-elastic cables, isolated or associated with dedicated plates, for the surgical treatment of periprosthetic fractures with stable implants. Two groups of 30 (group A—metallic cables) and 24 (group B—UHMWPe iso-elastic cables) patients have been surgically treated in our institution for hip periprosthetic fractures, between September 2017 and June 2020. The mean age of the patients was 81 years in group A and 80 years in group B. In our study, we included fractures classified as B1 or C, according to the Vancouver postoperative fractures classification; the patients were evaluated retrospectively at 1 year postoperatively, regarding the following: surgery time, blood loss, partial weight-bearing time, radiographical healing time, Harris hip score, and postoperative complications. Comparable outcomes were observed in patients from both groups. Group A showed a higher complication rate compared to group B, at 1 year postoperatively. Non-metallic nylon fiber and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPe) cerclage cables could represent a reliable fixation device, ensuring comparable healing and complication rates with traditional titanium cerclage cables.
Dietary Patterns and Their Associations with Intermediate Age-Related Macular Degeneration in a Japanese Population
Authors: Sasaki Mariko , Miyagawa Naoko , Harada Sei , Tsubota Kazuo , Takebayashi Toru , Nishiwaki Yuji , Kawasaki Ryo
Published: March 2022

This population-based cross-sectional study investigated the influence of dietary patterns on age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in a Japanese population. The Tsuruoka Metabolomics Cohort Study enrolled a general population aged 35–74 years from among participants in annual health check-up programs in Tsuruoka City, Japan. Eating habits were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Principal component analysis was used to identify dietary patterns among food items. The association between quartiles of scores for each dietary pattern and intermediate AMD was assessed using multivariate logistic regression models. Of 3433 participants, 415 had intermediate AMD. We identified four principal components comprising the Vegetable-rich pattern, Varied staple food pattern, Animal-rich pattern, and Seafood-rich pattern. After adjusting for potential confounders, higher Varied staple food diet scores were associated with a lower prevalence of intermediate AMD (fourth vs. first quartile) (OR, 0.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.46–0.86). A significant trend of decreasing ORs for intermediate AMD associated with increasing Varied staple food diet scores was noted (p for trend = 0.002). There was no significant association between the other dietary patterns and intermediate AMD. In a Japanese population, individuals with a dietary pattern score high in the Varied staple food pattern had a lower prevalence of intermediate AMD.
Comparison in Short-Term Safety and Efficacy between New-Generation WATCHMAN FLX and Conventional WATCHMAN 2.5 for Percutaneous Left Atrial Appendage Closure
Authors: Fukuda Nobuyuki , Imamura Teruhiko , Tanaka Shuhei , Kataoka Naoya , Ushijima Ryuichi , Ueno Hiroshi , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: March 2022

Background: Percutaneous left atrial appendage closure using the WATCHMAN system, to prevent thrombosis and minimize anti-coagulant use in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, has recently been introduced. The safety and efficacy of new-generation WATCHMAN FLX, as compared to conventional WATCHMAN 2.5, remain unknown. Methods: Consecutive patients who received percutaneous left atrial appendage closure using the WATCHMAN system in our institute, between June 2020 and December 2021, were retrospectively analyzed. Safety and efficacy during the 45-day observational period were compared between the two devices. Results: A total of 93 patients (73.0 ± 7.3 years old, 63 men) who received WATCHMAN FLX (n = 44) or WATCHMAN 2.5 (n = 49) were included. The device implant success rate was 100% in the FLX device group and 98% in the 2.5 device group. There were no procedure-related complications in the FLX group, and one non-relevant pericardial effusion in the 2.5 device group. During the 45-day observational period, there were no procedure-related adverse events. No patients in the FLX group had a peri-device leak >3 mm, whereas two patients in the 2.5 device group had a peri-device leak >3 mm. Anti-coagulants could be terminated in most of the patients (85% versus 88%; p = 0.68). Conclusions: Percutaneous left atrial appendage closure using new-generation WATCHMAN FLX seemed to be as safe and effective as conventional WATCHMAN 2.5 during the short-term observational period.
Relationships between Indicators of Lower Extremity Artery Disease and miRNA Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Zalewski Daniel P. , Ruszel Karol P. , Stępniewski Andrzej , Gałkowski Dariusz , Feldo Marcin , Kocki Janusz , Bogucka-Kocka Anna
Published: March 2022

Lower extremity artery disease (LEAD) is an underdiagnosed and globally underestimated vascular disease caused by the progressive and chronic formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries of the lower limbs. Much evidence indicates that the abnormal course of pathophysiological processes underlying LEAD development is associated with altered miRNA modulatory function. In the presented study, relationships between miRNA expression and clinical indicators of this disease (ABI, claudication distance, length of arterial occlusion, Rutherford category, and plaque localization) were identified. MiRNA expression profiles were obtained using next-generation sequencing in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 40 LEAD patients. Correlation analysis performed using the Spearman rank correlation test revealed miRNAs related to ABI, claudication distance, and length of arterial occlusion. In the DESeq2 analysis, five miRNAs were found to be dysregulated in patients with Rutherford category 3 compared to patients with Rutherford category 2. No miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed between patients with different plaque localizations. Functional analysis performed using the miRNet 2.0 website tool determined associations of selected miRNAs with processes underlying vascular pathology, such as vascular smooth muscle cell differentiation, endothelial cell apoptosis, response to hypoxia, inflammation, lipid metabolism, and circadian rhythm. The most enriched functional terms for genes targeted by associated miRNAs were linked to regulation of the cell cycle, regulation of the transcription process, and nuclear cellular compartment. In conclusion, dysregulations of miRNA expression in PBMCs of patients with LEAD are indicative of the disease and could potentially be used in the prediction of LEAD progression.
Correlation of KRAS G12C Mutation and High PD-L1 Expression with Clinical Outcome in NSCLC Patients Treated with Anti-PD1 Immunotherapy
Authors: Cefalì Marco , Epistolio Samantha , Ramelli Giulia , Mangan Dylan , Molinari Francesca , Martin Vittoria , Freguia Stefania , Mazzucchelli Luca , Froesch Patrizia , Frattini Milo , Wannesson Luciano
Published: March 2022

Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting PD-1 or PD-L1 improved the survival of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with PD-L1 expression ≥50% and without alterations in EGFR, ALK, ROS1, RET. However, markers able to predict the efficacy of ICIs, in combination with PD-L1 expression are still lacking. Our aim in this hypothesis-generating pilot study was to evaluate whether the KRAS G12C variant may predict the efficacy of ICIs in advanced NSCLC patients with PD-L1 ≥ 50%. Methods: Genomic DNA or tissue sections of 44 advanced ICI-treated NSCLC cases with PD-L1 ≥ 50% without EGFR, ALK, ROS1, RET alterations were tested using Next Generation Sequencing, Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Statistical analyses were carried out fitting univariate and multivariate time to event models. Results: KRAS G12C mutant patients (N = 11/44) showed a significantly longer progression-free survival (PFS) at univariate and multivariate analyses (p = 0.03). The Kaplan–Meier plot of the PFS time-to-event supports that G12C positive patients have a longer time to progress. PFS improvement was not observed when any KRAS mutations were compared to wild-type cases. Conclusions: Given the limitations due to the small sample size and exploratory nature of this study, we tentatively conclude the KRAS G12C mutation should be considered in future trials as a predictive marker of prolonged response to first-line ICIs in NSCLC patients overexpressing PD-L1. This finding could be relevant as anti-KRAS G12C therapies enter the therapeutic landscape of NSCLC.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Postpartum Depression in Romanian Women during Two Periods of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Citu Cosmin , Gorun Florin , Motoc Andrei , Sas Ioan , Burlea Bogdan , Citu Ioana Mihaela , Biris Marius , Forga Marius , Neagoe Octavian , Gorun Oana Maria
Published: March 2022

Postpartum depression is a major mental health disorder that can negatively affect both mother and baby. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic associated with extreme measures of the lockdown had profound effects on humanity, increasing the rates of anxiety and depression, especially among women in the postpartum period. The aim of this study was threefold: to determine the prevalence of postpartum depression, to compare the prevalence of postpartum depression at two different times during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to assess a possible association between the timing of childbirth in a given period of the pandemic and the risk of postpartum depression. A cross-sectional study involving 154 women who were interviewed immediately postpartum, using the EPDS scale, was conducted at the Timisoara Municipal Hospital, Romania at two different periods during the COVID-19 pandemic (March–April 2020 during the first wave and August–September 2021 during the fourth wave). The overall prevalence of postpartum depression (EPDS score > 13) was 18.8%, with a statistically significantly higher rate among participants surveyed during the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Romania; the COVID-19 pandemic represents an impact on women’s mental health in the postpartum period, increasing the risk of developing postpartum depression.
The BIOMONITOR III Injectable Cardiac Monitor: Clinical Experience with a Novel Injectable Cardiac Monitor
Authors: Reinsch Nico , Füting Anna , Höwel Dennis , Neven Kars
Published: March 2022

Background: Injectable cardiac monitors (ICMs) are leadless subcutaneous devices for long-term monitoring of arrhythmias. The BIOTRONIK BIOMONITOR III is a novel ICM with a miniaturized profile, long sensing vector, and simplified implantation technique. Methods: R-wave amplitude was recorded immediately after implantation, the day after implantation, and after 3 months. Follow-up was scheduled after 3 months or after an event. All data from the ICM were retrieved. The anatomical position of the ICM was determined post-implantation and after 3 months. A patient questionnaire was conducted after 3 months. Results: In 36 patients (mean age 67 ± 13 years; 40% male) an ICM was inserted. Six patients were not included in the final analysis. The median time from skin cut to wound closure was 6 [IQR 5–7] minutes. Mean R-wave amplitude increased over time (0.73 ± 32 mV vs. 0.78 ± 0.38 mV vs. 0.81 ± 0.39 mV; p = ns). Three months after implantation, the ICM was in an anatomically stable position. In 14 (47%) patients, true episodes were detected. False arrhythmia alerts were detected in 13 (43%) patients. The total number of false detections was low, and the patient satisfaction rate was high. Conclusion: Implantation of the novel BIOMONITOR III is fast and uncomplicated; its sensing characteristics are excellent and improve over time, and patient satisfaction is high.
Complete Resolution of Central Soft Drusen without Geographic Atrophy or Choroidal Neovascularization
Authors: Zeng Rebecca , Garg Itika , Miller John B.
Published: March 2022

The treatment and prevention of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) traditionally involve lifestyle modifications and antioxidant supplementation, including the AREDS2 formula. We present a case of a woman with dry AMD in her right eye with several large, confluent central drusen on her exam and optical coherence tomography B-scan. Over the course of a year, the drusen almost completely disappeared, but the retinal layers were preserved without the development of geographic atrophy or choroidal neovascularization. While the exact cause of this phenomenon is unclear, it was thought to be associated with this patient’s strict daily use of numerous dietary supplements. This case highlights the potential in exploring alternative medicine supplements in the treatment of AMD.
Bedside Selection of Positive End Expiratory Pressure by Electrical Impedance Tomography in Patients Undergoing Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support: A Comparison between COVID-19 ARDS and ARDS from Other Etiologies
Authors: Di Pierro Michela , Giani Marco , Bronco Alfio , Lembo Francesca Maria , Rona Roberto , Bellani Giacomo , Foti Giuseppe
Published: March 2022

Background: The interest in protective ventilation strategies and individualized approaches for patients with severe illness on veno venous extracorporeal support has increased in recent years. Wide heterogeneity exists among patients with COVID-19 related acute respiratory distress syndrome (C-ARDS) and ARDS from other etiologies (NC-ARDS). EIT is a useful tool for the accurate analysis of regional lung volume distribution and allows for a tailored ventilatory setting. The aim of this work is to retrospectively describe the results of EIT assessments performed in patients C-ARDS and NC-ARDS undergoing V-V ECMO support. Methods: A clinical EIT-guided decremental PEEP trail was conducted for all patients included in the study and mechanically ventilated. Results: 12 patients with C-ARDS and 12 patients with NC-ARDS were included in the study for a total of 13 and 18 EIT evaluations, respectively. No significant differences in arterial blood gas, respiratory parameters, and regional ventilation before and after the EIT exam were recorded. The subset of patients with NC-ARDS whose EIT exam led to PEEP modification was characterized by a lower baseline compliance compared with the C-ARDS group: 18 (16–28) vs. 27 (24–30) (p = 0.04). Overdistension significantly increased at higher steps only for the NC-ARDS group. A higher percentage of overdistension was described in patients with NC-ARDS when compared with patients with C-ARDS. Conclusions: EIT is feasible in patients with COVID-19-associated ARDS on veno-venous extracorporeal support and may help in tailoring the PEEP setting. Overall, severe COVID-19-related ARDS presents respiratory characteristics similar to severe “classical” NC-ARDS. However, C-ARDS is associated with a lower risk of overdistension at a higher PEEP level compared with NC-ARDS.
Investigation of Nonlinear Optical Properties of Quantum Dots Deposited onto a Sample Glass Using Time-Resolved Inline Digital Holography
Authors: Belashov Andrey , Shevkunov Igor , Kolesova Ekaterina , Orlova Anna , Putilin Sergei , Veniaminov Andrei , Cheng Chau-Jern , Petrov Nikolay
Published: March 2022

We report on the application of time-resolved inline digital holography in the study of the nonlinear optical properties of quantum dots deposited onto sample glass. The Fresnel diffraction patterns of the probe pulse due to noncollinear degenerate phase modulation induced by a femtosecond pump pulse were extracted from the set of inline digital holograms and analyzed. The absolute values of the nonlinear refractive index of both the sample glass substrate and the deposited layer of quantum dots were evaluated using the proposed technique. To characterize the inhomogeneous distribution of the samples’ nonlinear optical properties, we proposed plotting an optical nonlinearity map calculated as a local standard deviation of the diffraction pattern intensities induced by noncollinear degenerate phase modulation.
Understanding Effects of Permafrost Degradation and Coastal Erosion on Civil Infrastructure in Arctic Coastal Villages: A Community Survey and Knowledge Co-Production
Authors: Liew Min , Xiao Ming , Farquharson Louise , Nicolsky Dmitry , Jensen Anne , Romanovsky Vladimir , Peirce Jana , Alessa Lilian , McComb Christopher , Zhang Xiong , Jones Benjamin
Published: March 2022

This paper presents the results of a community survey that was designed to better understand the effects of permafrost degradation and coastal erosion on civil infrastructure. Observations were collected from residents in four Arctic coastal communities: Point Lay, Wainwright, Utqiaġvik, and Kaktovik. All four communities are underlain by continuous ice-rich permafrost with varying degrees of degradation and coastal erosion. The types, locations, and periods of observed permafrost thaw and coastal erosion were elicited. Survey participants also reported the types of civil infrastructure being affected by permafrost degradation and coastal erosion and any damage to residential buildings. Most survey participants reported that coastal erosion has been occurring for a longer period than permafrost thaw. Surface water ponding, ground surface collapse, and differential ground settlement are the three types of changes in ground surface manifested by permafrost degradation that are most frequently reported by the participants, while houses are reported as the most affected type of infrastructure in the Arctic coastal communities. Wall cracking and house tilting are the most commonly reported types of residential building damage. The effects of permafrost degradation and coastal erosion on civil infrastructure vary between communities. Locations of observed permafrost degradation and coastal erosion collected from all survey participants in each community were stacked using heatmap data visualization. The heatmaps constructed using the community survey data are reasonably consistent with modeled data synthesized from the scientific literature. This study shows a useful approach to coproduce knowledge with Arctic residents to identify locations of permafrost thaw and coastal erosion at higher spatial resolution as well as the types of infrastructure damage of most concern to Arctic residents.
An Extensive Survey of Ciguatoxins on Grouper Variola louti from the Ryukyu Islands, Japan, Using Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Authors: Oshiro Naomasa , Nagasawa Hiroya , Watanabe Miharu , Nishimura Mio , Kuniyoshi Kyoko , Kobayashi Naoki , Sugita-Konishi Yoshiko , Asakura Hiroshi , Tachihara Katsunori , Yasumoto Takeshi
Published: March 2022

Ingesting fish contaminated with ciguatoxins (CTXs) originating from epibenthic dinoflagellates causes ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP). CFP occurs mainly in the tropical and subtropical Indo–Pacific region and the Caribbean Sea. Furthermore, it occurs sporadically in Japan, especially in the Ryukyu Islands between Taiwan and Kyushu, Japan. Variola louti is the most frequently implicated fish with a suggested toxin profile, consisting of ciguatoxin-1B and two deoxy congeners. Therefore, using the liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), we analyzed CTXs in the flesh of 154 individuals from various locations and detected CTXs in 99 specimens (64%). In 65 fish (43%), CTX levels exceeded the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance level (0.01 µg/kg). Furthermore, in four specimens (3%), the guideline level in Japan (>0.18 µg/kg) was met. Additionally, although the highest total CTX level was 0.376 µg/kg, the consumption of 180 g of this specimen was assumed to cause CFP. Moreover, only CTX1B, 52-epi-54-deoxyCTX1B, and 54-deoxyCTX1B were detected, with the relative contribution of the three CTX1B analogs to the total toxin content (35 ± 7.7 (SD)%, 27 ± 8.1%, and 38 ± 5.6%, respectively) being similar to those reported in this region in a decade ago. Subsequently, the consistency of the toxin profile in V. louti was confirmed using many specimens from a wide area. As observed, total CTX levels were correlated with fish sizes, including standard length (r = 0.503, p = 3.08 × 10−11), body weight (r = 0.503, p = 3.01 × 10−11), and estimated age (r = 0.439, p = 3.81 × 10−7) of the specimens. Besides, although no correlation was observed between condition factor (CF) and total CTX levels, a significance difference was observed (p = 0.039) between the groups of skinnier and fattier fish, separated by the median CF (3.04). Results also showed that the CF of four specimens with the highest CTX level (>0.18 µg/kg) ranged between 2.49 and 2.87, and they were skinnier than the average (3.03) and median of all specimens.
The Effects of Sound Speed Profile to the Convergence Zone in Deep Water
Authors: Wu Shuanglin , Li Zhenglin , Qin Jixing , Wang Mengyuan , Li Wen
Published: March 2022

The structure of a sound speed profile (SSP) in deep water causes refraction of sound rays and Convergence Zones (CZs) of high intensity where the rays focus at shallow depth. Study of sound field characteristics in the CZs has always been the focus of deep-water acoustics research. Many studies have been conducted on sound propagation in different parts of the oceans with different environments and, in this paper, the range and width of CZ is analyzed in the East Indian Ocean (EIO) and the South China Sea (SCS). Through the experimental data collected in different seasons with the propagation conditions change in the EIO and the SCS, we observe that the SSPs in different marine environments have a significant impact on the CZs of deep water. The sound channel mixing layer and isothermal layer have great effect on the CZ ranges. The water depths in the two experimental areas are similar, the range of the first CZ in the EIO is 7–8 km farther than that in the SCS, and the width of the CZs in the EIO is about 2–3 km narrower than that in the SCS. The surface mixed layer and the thermocline affect the CZ width but has little effect on the CZ range when the sound speed at the source and the bottom are practically the same. As the propagation conditions change along the seasons in the EIO, the range of the first CZ is almost the same, but the width of the CZs in the summer is about 2 km narrower than that in the spring. The water depth affects the CZ width but has little effect on the CZ range if the CZs can be formed. The different CZ characteristics between EIO and SCS are explained by both theoretical calculation and numerical simulation. The influence of the SSP structure and water depth on the CZ range are analyzed and the corresponding mechanism is explained. The research results are of great significance for underwater acoustic detection in deep sea.
From Surface Water to the Deep Sea: A Review on Factors Affecting the Biodegradation of Spilled Oil in Marine Environment
Authors: Bacosa Hernando Pactao , Ancla Sheila Mae B. , Arcadio Cris Gel Loui A. , Dalogdog John Russel A. , Ellos Dioniela Mae C. , Hayag Heather Dale A. , Jarabe Jiza Gay P. , Karim Ahl Jimhar T. , Navarro Carl Kenneth P. , Palma Mae Princess I. , Romarate Rodolfo A. , Similatan Kaye M. , Tangkion Jude Albert B. , Yurong Shann Neil A. , Mabuhay-Omar Jhonamie A. , Inoue Chihiro , Adhikari Puspa L.
Published: March 2022

Over the past century, the demand for petroleum products has increased rapidly, leading to higher oil extraction, processing and transportation, which result in numerous oil spills in coastal-marine environments. As the spilled oil can negatively affect the coastal-marine ecosystems, its transport and fates captured a significant interest of the scientific community and regulatory agencies. Typically, the environment has natural mechanisms (e.g., photooxidation, biodegradation, evaporation) to weather/degrade and remove the spilled oil from the environment. Among various oil weathering mechanisms, biodegradation by naturally occurring bacterial populations removes a majority of spilled oil, thus the focus on bioremediation has increased significantly. Helping in the marginal recognition of this promising technique for oil-spill degradation, this paper reviews recently published articles that will help broaden the understanding of the factors affecting biodegradation of spilled oil in coastal-marine environments. The goal of this review is to examine the effects of various environmental variables that contribute to oil degradation in the coastal-marine environments, as well as the factors that influence these processes. Physico-chemical parameters such as temperature, oxygen level, pressure, shoreline energy, salinity, and pH are taken into account. In general, increase in temperature, exposure to sunlight (photooxidation), dissolved oxygen (DO), nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium), shoreline energy (physical advection—waves) and diverse hydrocarbon-degrading microorganisms consortium were found to increase spilled oil degradation in marine environments. In contrast, higher initial oil concentration and seawater pressure can lower oil degradation rates. There is limited information on the influences of seawater pH and salinity on oil degradation, thus warranting additional research. This comprehensive review can be used as a guide for bioremediation modeling and mitigating future oil spill pollution in the marine environment by utilizing the bacteria adapted to certain conditions.
Computed Tomography-Based L1 Bone Mineral Density in 624 Dutch Trauma Patients—Are North American Reference Values Valid in Europe?
Authors: Kobes Tim , Sweet Arthur , Verstegen Sophie , Houwert Marijn , Veldhuis Wouter , Leenen Luke , de Jong Pim , van Baal Mark
Published: March 2022

Opportunistic screening for bone mineral density (BMD) of the first lumbar vertebra (L1) using computed tomography (CT) is increasingly used to identify patients at risk for osteoporosis. An extensive study in the United States has reported sex-specific normative values of CT-based BMD across all ages. The current study aims to validate North American reference values of CT-based bone mineral density in a Dutch population of level-1 trauma patients. All trauma patients aged 16 or older, admitted to our level-1 trauma center during 2017, who underwent a CT scan of the chest or abdomen at 120 kVp within 7 days of hospital admission, were retrospectively included. BMD measurements in Hounsfield Units (HU) were performed manually in L1 or an adjacent vertebra. Student’s t-tests were performed to compare the Dutch mean BMD value per age group to the North American reference values. Linear regression analysis and Pearson’s correlation coefficient (ρ) calculations were performed to assess the correlation between BMD and age. In total, 624 patients were included (68.4% men, aged 16–95). Mean BMD decreased linearly with 2.4 HU per year of age (ρ = −0.77). Sex-specific analysis showed that BMD of premenopausal women was higher than BMD of men at these ages. Dutch mean BMD values in the age groups over 35 years were significantly lower than the North American reference values. Our findings indicate that using North American BMD thresholds in Dutch clinical practice would result in overdiagnosis of osteoporosis and osteopenia. Dutch guidelines may benefit from population-specific thresholds.
Association between Spinal Cord Injury and Alcohol Dependence: A Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chuang Ching-Hui , Chen Po-Cheng , Bai Chyi-Huey , Wu Yi-Lin , Tsai Ming-Chao , Li Chieh-Yu
Published: March 2022

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating disorder. Alcohol abuse has been recognized as hindering SCI patients from rehabilitation, thus leading to longer length of days and poorer prognosis. This article aimed to investigate the association between spinal cord injury (SCI) and alcohol dependence. Data were derived from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD). The incidence of alcohol dependence between SCI and non-SCI groups was compared. Other possible risk factors were also analyzed. Patients (N = 5670) with SCI from 2000 to 2009 were initially assessed for eligibility. After propensity score matching, 5639 first-time SCI survivors were included. The Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to assess differences in the incidence of alcohol dependence syndrome. Based on the adjusted hazard ratios (HR), the SCI group had a higher hazard for alcohol dependence syndrome compared to the non-SCI group (adjusted HR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.03~1.86, p = 0.0305). The injury level did not have an impact on the incidence of alcohol dependence syndrome. A higher incidence of alcohol dependence syndrome was related to male patients, lower insurance levels, higher Deyo’s CCI, and psychiatric OPD times. A lower incidence of alcohol dependence syndrome was related to elder age. The incidence of alcohol dependence increased after the occurrence of SCI and was also related to age, sex, monthly income, comorbidities, and psychiatric problems. The injury level did not affect the incidence of alcohol dependence after SCI.
Relationship between Mechanical Ventilation and Histological Fibrosis in Patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Undergoing Open Lung Biopsy
Authors: Li Hsin-Hsien , Wang Chih-Wei , Chang Chih-Hao , Huang Chung-Chi , Hsu Han-Shui , Chiu Li-Chung
Published: March 2022

Background: Mechanical ventilation brings the risk of ventilator-induced lung injury, which can lead to pulmonary fibrosis and prolonged mechanical ventilation. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) who received open lung biopsy between March 2006 and December 2019. Results: A total of 68 ARDS patients receiving open lung biopsy with diffuse alveolar damage (DAD; the hallmark pathology of ARDS) were analyzed and stratified into non-fibrosis (n = 56) and fibrosis groups (n = 12). The duration of ventilator usage and time spent in the intensive care unit and hospital stay were all significantly higher in the fibrosis group. Hospital mortality was higher in the fibrosis than in the non-fibrosis group (67% vs. 57%, p = 0.748). A multivariable logistic regression model demonstrated that mechanical power at ARDS diagnosis and ARDS duration before biopsy were independently associated with histological fibrosis at open lung biopsy (odds ratio 1.493 (95% CI 1.014–2.200), p = 0.042; odds ratio 1.160 (95% CI 1.052–1.278), p = 0.003, respectively). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that prompt action aimed at staving off injurious mechanical stretching of lung parenchyma and subsequent progression to fibrosis may have a positive effect on clinical outcomes.
Pathway Phenotypes Underpinning Depression, Anxiety, and Chronic Fatigue Symptoms Due to Acute Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Precision Nomothetic Psychiatry Analysis
Authors: Smesam Hasan Najah , Qazmooz Hasan Abbas , Khayoon Sinan Qayes , Almulla Abbas F. , Al-Hakeim Hussein Kadhem , Maes Michael
Published: March 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disorder which affects the joints in the wrists, fingers, and knees. RA is often associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms as well as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)-like symptoms. This paper examines the association between depressive symptoms (measured with the Beck Depression Inventory, BDI), anxiety (Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, HAMA), CFS-like (Fibro-fatigue Scale) symptoms and immune–inflammatory, autoimmune, and endogenous opioid system (EOS) markers, and lactosylcer-amide (CD17) in RA. The serum biomarkers were assayed in 118 RA and 50 healthy controls. Results were analyzed using the new precision nomothetic psychiatry approach. We found significant correlations between the BDI, FF, and HAMA scores and severity of RA, as assessed with the DAS28-4, clinical and disease activity indices, the number of tender and swollen joints, and patient and evaluator global assessment scores. Partial least squares analysis showed that 69.7% of the variance in this common core underpinning psychopathology and RA symptoms was explained by immune–inflammatory pathways, rheumatoid factor, anti-citrullinated protein antibodies, CD17, and mu-opioid receptor levels. We constructed a new endophenotype class comprising patients with very high immune–inflammatory markers, CD17, RA, affective and CF-like symptoms, and tobacco use disorder. We extracted a reliable and replicable latent vector (pathway phenotype) from immune data, psychopathology, and RA-severity scales. Depression, anxiety, and CFS-like symptoms due to RA are manifestations of the phenome of RA and are mediated by the effects of the same immune–inflammatory, autoimmune, and other pathways that underpin the pathophysiology of RA.
Disturbances Brought about by Human Activities in Relation to the Eco-Environment of the Main Stream of the Tarim River, 2000–2020
Authors: Zhao Yabo , Zhang Weiwei , Li Cansong , Ma Shifa , Zhang Xiwen , Jiang Haiyan
Published: March 2022

The main stream of the Tarim River in China is typical of ecologically sensitive areas that have been heavily disturbed by human activities; as such, the monitoring of the quality of its eco-environment constitutes an important task for researchers. By using GlobeLand30 data and applying the disturbance degree model and revised ecosystem service value (ESV) model, the study presented in this paper undertook a quantitative estimation of the effects of the disturbance impacts of human activities on the eco-environment of this area in the period of 2000 to 2020. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) disturbance index values, which reflect disturbance to the local ecosystem by human activities, increased over the study period. Further, cultivated land experienced the largest increase, which, in turn, brought about the most significant disturbance to the eco-environment. High disturbance index values presented a patchy distribution in the west of the main stream of the Tarim River and formed bands and dots in the east; the area of land characterized by high and moderate disturbance index values increased, with growth areas taking on a scattered distribution of patches, bands, and dots without significant spatial continuity. (2) The total ESV increased, indicating the quality of the eco-environment improved. The increase of cultivated land offset the increase in ESV, which counteracted the effects of ecological governance measures. Areas with high ESV values were mainly located in the western and central parts of the study area, while low values were found in the middle east and east. Areas with higher increases in ESV were mainly located in the western and the western part of the middle reaches and took on a zonal distribution, while areas of decrease followed a scattered distribution, presenting as dots or patches. Using the quantitative analysis methods and high-resolution remote sensing data to evaluate the changes in the eco-environment was considered as the innovation of this study, and the findings are useful in exploring the influence of human activities on ecosystems and evaluating the eco-environment in the minor watershed of an arid area. This piece of quantitative research contributes to the task of monitoring eco-environmental changes using remote sensing techniques in ecologically sensitive areas.
Brazil’s Agribusiness Economic Miracle: Exploring Food Supply Chain Transformations for Promoting Win–Win Investments
Authors: Cruz José Elenilson , Medina Gabriel da Silva , Júnior João Ricardo de Oliveira
Published: March 2022

Background: For many developing countries, agribusiness has become one of the main economic sectors, with the capacity to mobilize domestic and foreign investments. Despite the potential for development in countries like Brazil, the results of these investments in supply chains have not yet been systematically assessed. Methods: This study analyses foreign and domestic investments as an explanation for the recent growth of Brazilian agribusiness and evaluates the implications of different investment arrangements for the future development of the sector in the country. The research was based on a literature review of 12 agribusiness supply chains in Brazil. Results: Through a content analysis, the results reveal win–win situations with foreign and domestic investments supporting the streamlining of supply chains, mutually benefiting domestic and international groups and increasing the productivity of the entire sector. However, the results also reveal win–lose cases with chains and segments practically controlled by foreign multinationals in which local groups have practically no share. Finally, there are also cases of lose–win in which groups subsidized by the state are privileged in relation to others, compromising the sector’s growth. Conclusions: The current liberal business environment results in the need for a new vision of development based on win–win opportunities for domestic and foreign investments created by dynamic sectors such as agribusiness.
Grease
Authors: Shah Raj , Woydt Mathias , Tung Simon C. , Rosenkranz Andreas
Published: March 2022

Grease is an extraordinarily complex lubricant with a complex material–property relationship, and to shed more light on its importance, we decided to launch the first Special Issue of “Lubricants” purely focusing on the most recent developmental trends of grease applications [...]
Laboratory and Field Performance Evaluation of High-Workability Ultra-Thin Asphalt Overlays
Authors: Wang Jinquan , Sun Jia , Luo Sang , Li Qiang
Published: March 2022

The defects of poor workability and inadequate pavement performance of the ultra-thin asphalt overlay limited its application in the preventive maintenance of pavements. In this study, a high-workability ultra-thin (HWU) asphalt overlay scheme was proposed. A high-strength-modified asphalt binder and an optimized HWU-10 gradation were used to prepare the HWU asphalt mixture and explore its laboratory performance. Furthermore, the HWU asphalt mixture was used for the test road paving. Based on the field performance test results before and after the test road for one year of traffic operation, the application performance of the HWU asphalt mixture and styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS)-modified asphalt mixture was compared and analyzed. The results showed that the HWU asphalt mixture possessed satisfactory laboratory pavement performance, and its high-temperature stability and moisture damage resistance were better than those of the SBS-modified asphalt mixture. The asphalt mixture prepared using HWU-10 gradation was easily compacted and showed good workability. After one year of operation, all field performance of the ultra-thin overlay paved with HWU asphalt mixture met the specification requirements, but its flatness and skid resistance decreased. It is worth mentioning that the HWU asphalt mixture was significantly better than the SBS-modified asphalt mixture in terms of performance degradation resistance and rutting resistance. The studies to enhance the road intersection pavement performance and ensure the homogeneous dispersion of polyester fibers in the asphalt mixture will be considered in the future.
Simulation Study on Coil of Biomass Carbonization Kettle
Authors: Xie Zuoran , Jiang Lei , Cen Zhibo , Zhang Hao , Zhang Bayang , Zhu Jue
Published: March 2022

The damage and failure of coiling tube in biomass carbonization kettle due to the long-term operation was discussed. According to the actual structure of the carbonization kettle, a three-dimensional model was established, and the temperature field was simulated based on the given design parameters. The results show that the temperature distribution is stable during 440~450 °C, and the relative error with the actual temperature 449.2 °C, which is about 0.78%. The tensile specimens made of 20G steel, the common material of the coil, was placed in a tubular furnace, and the real heat treatment conditions were simulated with mixed gas and water vapor. After that, the uniaxial tensile test was carried out on MTS testing machine. The obtained physical parameters such as yield strength and elastic modulus were substituted into the numerical temperature field model to obtain the stress field model. The simulation results indicate that during the initial ventilation of the equipment, the coil compressed with the maximum stress of 8.3 MPa at the bending point of the second and fourth laps and partial failure was prone to occur, which is consistent with the actual coil failure result.