bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Exercise Capacity and Ventricular Function in Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy: The Impact of Sports Restriction during Follow-Up
Authors: Costa Sarah , Koch Kristina , Gasperetti Alessio , Akdis Deniz , Brunckhorst Corinna , Fu Guan , Tanner Felix C. , Ruschitzka Frank , Duru Firat , Saguner Ardan M.
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: Physical exercise has been suggested to promote disease progression in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). We aimed to investigate the exercise performance and ventricular function of ARVC patients during follow-up, while taking into account their adherence to exercise restriction recommendations. (2) Methods: This retrospective study included 49 patients (33 male, 67%) who had an exercise test at baseline and after 4.2 ± 1.6 years. Of the 49 ARVC patients, 27 (55%) were athletes, while 22 (45%) were non-athletes. Of the athletes, 12 (44%) continued intensive sports activity (non-adherent), while 15 (56%) stopped intensive physical activity upon recommendation (adherent). The maximum workload in Watts (W), percentage of the target workload (W%), and double product (DP) factor were measured for all patients. (3) Results: The non-adherent cohort had a significant decrease in physical performance (W at baseline vs. follow-up, p = 0.012; W% at baseline vs. follow-up, p = 0.025; DP-factor at baseline vs. follow-up, p = 0.012) over time. Left ventricular (LV) function (LV ejection fraction at baseline vs. follow-up, p = 0.082) showed a decreasing trend in the non-adherent cohort, while the performance of the adherent cohort remained at a similar level. (4) Conclusions: If intensive sports activities are not discontinued, exercise capacity and left ventricular function of athletes with ARVC deteriorates during follow-up. All patients with ARVC need to strictly adhere to the recommendation to cease intense sports activity in order to halt disease progression.
Abdominal Aortic Calcification and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease: Findings from KNOW-CKD Study
Authors: Suh Sang Heon , Oh Tae Ryom , Choi Hong Sang , Kim Chang Seong , Bae Eun Hui , Oh Kook-Hwan , Lee Joongyub , Oh Yun Kyu , Jung Ji Yong , Ma Seong Kwon , Kim Soo Wan ,   on behalf of the Korean Cohort Study for Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (KNOW-CKD) Investigators
Published: February 2022

To investigate the association between abdominal aortic calcification score (AACS) assessed by plain radiograph of the lateral abdomen and the risk of cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with pre-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD), a total of 2090 pre-dialysis CKD patients from the Korean Cohort Study for Outcome in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (KNOW-CKD) were categorized by AACS into 0, 1–2, 3–4, 5–6, and ≥7. The primary outcome of the study was the composite CV events, defined as a composite of non-fatal CV events and all-cause death. The risk of composite CV events was significantly higher in the subjects with AACS ≥ 7 (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.888, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.219 to 2.923), compared to that of the subjects with AACS 0. The risks of fatal and non-fatal CV events (adjusted HR 1.052, 95% CI 1.030 to 1.073) and all-cause death (adjusted HR 1.949, 95% CI 1.073 to 3.539) were also significantly higher in the subjects with AACS ≥ 7. In conclusion, AACS assessed by plain radiograph is independently associated with adverse CV outcomes in patients with pre-dialysis CKD. A simple radiographic examination of the lateral abdomen may help CV risk stratification in this population.
Endometriosis and Isthmocele: Common or Rare?
Authors: Gulz Marietta , Imboden Sara , Nirgianakis Konstantinos , Siegenthaler Franziska , Rau Tilman T. , Mueller Michael D.
Published: February 2022

Higher cesarean section rates and better ultrasound diagnostics have led to a more frequent diagnosis of isthmocele, a cesarean scar defect. Sometimes, endometriosis is found in the isthmocele, but simultaneous extrauterine endometriosis and endometriosis in the isthmocele have not yet been reported. Additionally, the surgical technique to repair the isthmocele is the subject of ongoing controversy. The aim of this study is to analyze a possible correlation between uterine scar (isthmocele) endometriosis and extrauterine endometriosis and to investigate the outcome of laparoscopic isthmocele resection in the rendezvous technique. In this single-center retrospective study, we included 83 women of reproductive age with symptomatic isthmocele undergoing laparoscopic isthmocele repair in rendezvous technique from 2004 to 2020 at the University of Bern. We collected data on patient and surgical characteristics as well as on postoperative outcomes (symptoms, further pregnancy, and pregnancy outcomes) retrospectively. We analyzed and compared these data for patients with and without endometriosis. Endometriosis was diagnosed during surgery in 22 out of 83 operated patients (26.5%). Diagnosis of isthmocele endometriosis (n = 9, 11%) was significantly higher in patients with extrauterine endometriosis (n = 6, p = 0.004). While the duration of surgery was significantly longer for patients with endometriosis (p = 0.006), the groups did not differ with regard to blood loss or complications. In addition, both groups showed similar indications for isthmocele repair (infertility, abnormal uterine bleeding, or dysmenorrhea). Surgery significantly improved abnormal uterine bleeding (χ2 p < 0.001), dysmenorrhea (χ2, p = 0.03), and infertility (χ2, p < 0.001). Regardless of the presence of endometriosis, 25 of 40 (63%) infertile patients became pregnant after surgery. In one out of eight pregnancies, however, we observed scar complications during pregnancy such as uterine scar pregnancy (n = 3), uterine scar dehiscence (n = 3), and placenta previa (n = 1). Endometriosis is a non-negligible intraoperative finding in patients with symptomatic isthmocele. The laparoscopic approach in the rendezvous technique is safe and effective. Therefore, this method should be recommended, especially in women with secondary infertility, and preoperatively simultaneous endometriosis resection should be discussed with the patient. In follow-up, postoperative pregnancies have to be monitored with care.
One-Year Outcomes and Trends over Two Eras of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Real-World Practice
Authors: Costa Giuliano , D’Errigo Paola , Rosato Stefano , Biancari Fausto , Marcellusi Andrea , Tarantini Giuseppe , Santoro Gennaro , Baiocchi Massimo , Maffeo Diego , Fiorina Claudia , Cerza Francesco , Baglio Giovanni , Juvonen Tatu , Badoni Gabriella , Valvo Roberto , Seccareccia Fulvia , Barbanti Marco , Tamburino Corrado ,   on behalf of the OBSERVANT II Research Group
Published: February 2022

Background: Data reflecting the benefit of procedural improvements in real-world transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) practice are sparse. Aims: To compare outcomes and trends of two TAVI eras from real Italian practice. Methods: A total of 1811 and 2939 TAVI patients enrolled in the national, prospective OBSERVANT and OBSERVANT II studies in 2010–2012 and 2016–2018, respectively, were compared in a cohort study. Outcomes were adjusted using inverse propensity of treatment weighting and propensity score matching. Results: The median age (83.0 (79.0–86.0) vs. 83.0 (79.0–86.0)) and EuroSCORE II (5.2 (3.2–7.7) vs. 5.1 (3.1–8.1)) of OBSERVANT and OBSERVANT II patients were similar. At 1 year, patients of the OBSERVANT II study had a significantly lower risk of all-cause death (10.6% vs. 16.3%, Hazard Ratio (HR) 0.63 (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.52–0.76)) and rehospitalization for heart failure (HF) (14.3% vs. 19.5%, Sub-distribution HR 0.71 (95%CI 0.60–0.84)), whereas rates of stroke (3.1% vs. 3.6%) and permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) (16.6% vs. 18.0%) were comparable between study groups. Conclusions: Age and risk profile among patients undergoing TAVI in Italy remained substantially unchanged between the 2010–2012 and 2016–2018 time periods. After adjustment, patients undergoing TAVI in the most recent era had lower risk of all-cause death and rehospitalization for HF at 1 year, whereas rates of stroke and PPI did not differ significantly.
Ultrasound and Photoacoustic Imaging of Breast Cancer: Clinical Systems, Challenges, and Future Outlook
Authors: Kratkiewicz Karl , Pattyn Alexander , Alijabbari Naser , Mehrmohammadi Mohammad
Published: February 2022

Presently, breast cancer diagnostic methods are dominated by mammography. Although drawbacks of mammography are present including ionizing radiation and patient discomfort, not many alternatives are available. Ultrasound (US) is another method used in the diagnosis of breast cancer, commonly performed on women with dense breasts or in differentiating cysts from solid tumors. Handheld ultrasound (HHUS) and automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) are presently used to generate reflection images which do not contain quantitative information about the tissue. This limitation leads to a subjective interpretation from the sonographer. To rectify the subjective nature of ultrasound, ultrasound tomography (UST) systems have been developed to acquire both reflection and transmission UST (TUST) images. This allows for quantitative assessment of tissue sound speed (SS) and acoustic attenuation which can be used to evaluate the stiffness of the lesions. Another imaging modality being used to detect breast cancer is photoacoustic tomography (PAT). Utilizing much of the same hardware as ultrasound tomography, PAT receives acoustic waves generated from tissue chromophores that are optically excited by a high energy pulsed laser. This allows the user to ideally produce chromophore concentration maps or extract other tissue parameters through spectroscopic PAT. Here, several systems in the area of TUST and PAT are discussed along with their advantages and disadvantages in breast cancer diagnosis. This overview of available systems can provide a landscape of possible intersections and future refinements in cancer diagnosis.
Prevalence, Incidence, and Outcomes of Hyperkalaemia in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction from a Spanish Multicentre Study: SPANIK-HF Design and Baseline Characteristics
Authors: Delgado-Jiménez Juan F. , Segovia-Cubero Javier , Almenar-Bonet Luis , de Juan-Bagudá Javier , Lara-Padrón Antonio , García-Pinilla José Manuel , Bonilla-Palomas Juan Luis , López-Fernández Silvia , Mirabet-Pérez Sonia , Gómez-Otero Inés , Castro-Fernández Antonio , Díaz-Molina Beatriz , Goirigolzarri-Artaza Josebe , Rincón-Díaz Luis Miguel , Pascual-Figal Domingo Andrés , Anguita-Sánchez Manuel , Muñiz Javier , Crespo-Leiro María G.
Published: February 2022

Hyperkalaemia is a growing concern in the treatment of patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) as it limits the use of some prognostic-modifying drugs and has a negative impact on prognosis. The objective of the present study was to estimate the prevalence of hyperkalaemia in outpatients with HFrEF and its impact on achieving optimal medical treatment. For this purpose, a multicentre, prospective, and observational study was carried out on consecutive HFrEF patients who were monitored as outpatients in heart failure (HF) units and who, in the opinion of their doctor, received optimal medical treatment. A total of 565 HFrEF patients were included from 16 specialised HF units. The mean age was 66 ± 12 years, 78% were male, 45% had an ischemic cause, 39% had atrial fibrillation, 43% were diabetic, 42% had a glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min/1.7 m2, and the mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 31 ± 7%. Treatment at the study entry included: 76% on diuretics, 13% on ivabradine, 7% on digoxin, 18.9% on angiotensin-conversing enzyme inhibitors (ACEi), 11.3% on angiotensin receptors blockers (ARBs), 63.8% on angiotensin-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNi), 78.5% on mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), and 92.9% on beta-blockers. Potassium levels in the baseline analysis were: ≤5 mEq/L = 80.5%, 5.1–5.4 mEq/L = 13.8%, 5.5–5.9 mEq/L = 4.6%, and ≥6 mEq/L = 1.06%. Hyperkalaemia was the reason for not prescribing or reaching the target dose of an MRAs in 34.8% and 12.5% of patients, respectively. The impact of hyperkalaemia on not prescribing or dropping below the target dose in relation to ACEi, ARBs, and ARNi was significantly less. In conclusion, hyperkalaemia is a frequent problem in the management of patients with HFrEF and a limiting factor in the optimisation of medical treatment.
Evaluation of Breast Cancer Size Measurement by Computer-Aided Diagnosis (CAD) and a Radiologist on Breast MRI
Authors: Park Ji Yeon
Published: February 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate cancer size measurement by computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) and radiologist on breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) relative to histopathology and to determine clinicopathologic and MRI factors that may affect measurements. Methods: Preoperative MRI of 208 breast cancers taken between January 2017 and March 2021 were included. We evaluated correlation between CAD-generated size and pathologic size as well as that between radiologist-measured size and pathologic size. We classified size discrepancies into accurate and inaccurate groups. For both CAD and radiologist, clinicopathologic and imaging factors were compared between accurate and inaccurate groups. Results: The mean sizes as predicted by CAD, radiologist and pathology were 2.66 ± 1.68 cm, 2.54 ± 1.68 cm, and 2.30 ± 1.61 cm, with significant difference (p < 0.001). Correlation coefficients of cancer size measurement by radiologist and CAD in reference to pathology were 0.898 and 0.823. Radiologist’s measurement was more accurate than CAD, with statistical significance (p < 0.001). CAD-generated measurement was significantly more inaccurate for cancers of larger pathologic size (>2 cm), in the presence of an extensive intraductal component (EIC), with positive progesterone receptor (PR), and of non-mass enhancement (p = 0.045, 0.045, 0.03 and 0.002). Radiologist-measured size was significantly more inaccurate for cancers in presence of an in situ component, EIC, positive human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and non-mass enhancement (p = 0.017, 0.008, 0.003 and <0.001). Conclusion: Breast cancer size measurement showed a very strong correlation between CAD and pathology and radiologist and pathology. Radiologist-measured size was significantly more accurate than CAD size. Cancer size measurement by CAD and radiologist can both be inaccurate for cancers with EIC or non-mass enhancement.
High–Normal Preoperative Potassium Level Is Associated with Reduced 30–Day Morbidity and Shorter Hospital Stay after Radical Cystectomy
Authors: Borgmann Hendrik , Kamal Mohamed M. , Metzger Anna , Dotzauer Robert , Fischer Nikita , Sparwasser Peter , Jäger Wolfgang , Tsaur Igor , Haferkamp Axel , Höfner Thomas
Published: February 2022

Background: Radical cystectomy has high complication rates and, consequently, a high socioeconomic burden. The association between preoperative electrolyte levels and postoperative outcomes after radical cystectomy has not been investigated. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association between preoperative potassium level and clinical (30-day morbidity) and economical (length of hospital stay) postoperative outcomes of patients undergoing radical cystectomy. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated clinical data of 317 patients who had undergone radical cystectomy for bladder cancer. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine whether preoperative patient clinical factors influence clinical (30-day morbidity according to the Clavien-Dindo classification) and economical (length of hospital stay) postoperative outcomes. Results: In univariate analysis, low Charlson comorbidity score (p = 0.011), low ASA score (p = 0.015), no aspirin intake (p = 0.048) and high-normal preoperative potassium level (p = 0.034) were associated with reduced 30-day morbidity. In multivariate analysis, only high preoperative potassium remained an independent predictive factor for a reduced risk of postoperative complications (odds ratio 0.67, 95% confidence interval (0.48, 0.92), p = 0.014). Furthermore, high-normal preoperative potassium was the only preoperative factor associated with a shorter hospital stay ≤21 days (p = 0.007). Conclusions: High-normal preoperative potassium level was associated with better clinical (lower 30-day morbidity) and economical (shorter hospital stay) outcomes in patients undergoing radical cystectomy. We recommend that a randomized controlled trial be performed to investigate whether there is a causal relationship between preoperative potassium supplementation and postoperative complications and length of hospital stay.
Dehydration Status at Admission Predicts Recurrence in Patients with Traumatic Chronic Subdural Hematoma
Authors: Mainka Niklas , Borger Valeri , Hadjiathanasiou Alexis , Hamed Motaz , Potthoff Anna-Laura , Vatter Hartmut , Schuss Patrick , Schneider Matthias
Published: February 2022

Objective: There remains a significant risk of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) recurring after treatment. Patient-related predictors and surgical procedures have been investigated in many studies. In contrast, the literature remains scant on reports of the potential impact of dehydration on the admission of affected patients and on the CSDH recurrence rate. Methods: All consecutively admitted patients with CSDH and surgical treatment at the authors’ institution between 2015 and 2019 were retrospectively identified. Dehydration was assessed as a blood urea/creatinine (U/Cr) ratio > 80. The association between dehydration on admission and postoperative complication rates, in-hospital mortality, and recurrence of CSDH, with the need for additional surgical treatment, was further analyzed. Results: A total of 265 patients with CSDH requiring surgery were identified. In 32 patients (12%), further surgery was necessary due to the recurrence of CSDH. It was found that 9 of the 265 patients with CSDH (3%) suffered from dehydration at the time of admission. Multivariate analysis revealed diabetes mellitus (p = 0.02, OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.2–6.5), a preoperative midline shift > 5 mm (p = 0.003, OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.5–7.5) and dehydration on admission (p = 0.002, OR 10.3, 95% CI 2.4–44.1) as significant and independent predictors for the development of CSDH recurrence that requires surgery. Conclusion: the present findings indicate that dehydration on admission appears to be an independent predictor for CSDH recurrence that requires surgery.
Proposal and Evaluation of a Physician-Free, Real-Time On-Table Adaptive Radiotherapy (PF-ROAR) Workflow for the MRIdian MR-Guided LINAC
Authors: Ricci Jacob C. , Rineer Justin , Shah Amish P. , Meeks Sanford L. , Kelly Patrick
Published: February 2022

With the implementation of MR-LINACs, real-time adaptive radiotherapy has become a possibility within the clinic. However, the process of adapting a patient’s plan is time consuming and often requires input from the entire clinical team, which translates to decreased throughput and limited patient access. In this study, the authors propose and simulate a workflow to address these inefficiencies in staffing and patient throughput. Two physicians, three radiation therapists (RTT), and a research fellow each adapted bladder and bowel contours for 20 fractions from 10 representative patient plans. Contouring ability was compared via calculation of a Dice Similarity Index (DSI). The DSI for bladder and bowel based on each potential physician–therapist pair, as well as an inter-physician comparison, exhibited good overlap amongst all comparisons (p = 0.868). Plan quality was compared through calculation of the conformity index (CI), as well as an evaluation of the plan’s dose to a ‘gold standard’ set of structures. Overall, non-physician plans passed 91.2% of the time. Of the eight non-physician plans that failed their clinical evaluation, six also failed their evaluation against the ‘gold standard’. Another two plans that passed their clinical evaluation subsequently failed in their evaluation against the ‘gold standard’. Thus, the PF-ROAR process has a success rate of 97.5%, with 78/80 plans correctly adapted to the gold standard or halted at treatment. These findings suggest that a physician-free workflow can be well tolerated provided RTTs continue to develop knowledge of MR anatomy and careful attention is given to understanding the complexity of the plan prior to treatment.
Effect of Basalt Fibres on Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Recycled Multi-Material Packaging
Authors: Sergi Claudia , Tirillò Jacopo , Valente Teodoro , Sarasini Fabrizio
Published: February 2022

The low-density polyethylene (LDPE)/aluminium mix obtained after the recovery of cellulose from multilayer aseptic packaging used in the food and beverage industry is generally destined for energy recovery. In this work we propose it as a matrix for value-added composite materials. A commercially available material (EcoAllene) obtained from multilayer packaging recycling was reinforced with short natural basalt fibres up to 30 wt.% by twin screw extrusion, aiming at improving the mechanical profile of such material and widening its applications. Thermal characterizations by thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry showed that the material is indeed a complex mixture of LDPE, HDPE, PP, and aluminium. Basalt fibres did not modify the melting and crystallization profile as well as the global degradation behaviour. Composites were then subjected to tensile, bending, Charpy impact tests and the fracture surfaces were investigated by scanning electron microscopy. Results highlighted a beneficial effect of basalt fibres to stiffness and strength in both loading conditions, with improvements by 107% and 162% for tensile and bending strength, respectively, which were linked also to a 45% enhancement of impact strength. This increased mechanical performance is promising for their use in automotive interiors and outdoor decking applications.
Diagnosis of Vertical Root Fractures in Endodontically Treated Teeth by Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Mizuhashi Fumi , Watarai Yuko , Ogura Ichiro
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the characteristics and the detection ability of vertical root fractures in endodontically treated teeth by intraoral radiography and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). CBCT images of 50 patients with root fractures in endodontically treated teeth were reviewed, and 36 vertical root fractures were taken in this study. The cause of fracture, core construction, kind of teeth, and fracture direction (bucco-lingual and mesio-distal fractures) were investigated. Detection ability of vertical root fractures by intraoral radiography and CBCT was also examined. Statistical analyses concerning the characteristics were performed by χ2 test, and the detection ability was analyzed by cross-tabulation. All of the fractured teeth were nontraumatized teeth. The vertical root fracture occurrence was not differed by core construction. The vertical root fracture number was largest at the premolar teeth (p = 0.005), and the number of the bucco-lingual fracture was larger than the mesio-distal fracture (p = 0.046). Vertical root fractures were detectable using CBCT, while undetectable by intraoral radiography (p < 0.001). Vertical root fractures occurred easily in premolar teeth with bucco-lingual direction, and CBCT is an adequate radiographic method to diagnose vertical root fracture.
Qualitative Comparison of Image Stitching Algorithms for Multi-Camera Systems in Laparoscopy
Authors: Guy Sylvain , Haberbusch Jean-Loup , Promayon Emmanuel , Mancini Stéphane , Voros Sandrine
Published: February 2022

Multi-camera systems were recently introduced into laparoscopy to increase the narrow field of view of the surgeon. The video streams are stitched together to create a panorama that is easier for the surgeon to comprehend. Multi-camera prototypes for laparoscopy use quite basic algorithms and have only been evaluated on simple laparoscopic scenarios. The more recent state-of-the-art algorithms, mainly designed for the smartphone industry, have not yet been evaluated in laparoscopic conditions. We developed a simulated environment to generate a dataset of multi-view images displaying a wide range of laparoscopic situations, which is adaptable to any multi-camera system. We evaluated classical and state-of-the-art image stitching techniques used in non-medical applications on this dataset, including one unsupervised deep learning approach. We show that classical techniques that use global homography fail to provide a clinically satisfactory rendering and that even the most recent techniques, despite providing high quality panorama images in non-medical situations, may suffer from poor alignment or severe distortions in simulated laparoscopic scenarios. We highlight the main advantages and flaws of each algorithm within a laparoscopic context, identify the main remaining challenges that are specific to laparoscopy, and propose methods to improve these approaches. We provide public access to the simulated environment and dataset.
A Novel Method of Trajectory Optimization for Underwater Gliders Based on Dynamic Identification
Authors: Yang Ming , Wang Yanhui , Liang Yan , Song Yu , Yang Shaoqiong
Published: February 2022

For underwater gliders (UGs), high trajectory accuracy is an important factor in improving the observation of ocean phenomena. In this paper, a novel method of trajectory optimization is proposed to increase the trajectory accuracy of UGs, which is approximately based on the nonlinear dynamic model, rather than the linearization model. Firstly, a dynamic model of UGs is established to analyze the effect of the input parameters on the trajectory error, based on some approximate models that replaced the dynamic model due to its strong nonlinearity. Then, an identification strategy for the trajectory error is proposed, and the trajectory optimization strategy is analyzed while considering gliding range loss and observation distance loss. Finally, the identification strategy and trajectory optimization strategy proposed in this paper are verified by a sea trial of Petrel-L. The dynamic model, identification strategy, and optimization strategy are appropriate for other UGs.
Propagation and Separation of Downslope Gravity Currents over Rigid and Emergent Vegetation Patches in Linearly Stratified Environments
Authors: Lin Ying-Tien , Ye Yi-Qi , Han Dong-Rui , Chiu Yu-Jia
Published: February 2022

Large eddy simulation (combined with the mixture model) and laboratory experiment were used to investigate the impact of emergent and rigid vegetation on the dynamics of downslope gravity currents in stratified environments. The reliability of the numerical model was assessed with the corresponding laboratory measurements. The results show that the vegetation cylinders lead to severe lateral non-uniformity of the current front, causing more evident lobe and cleft structures. In stratified environments, the smaller driving force leads to less propagating velocity until the current separates from the slope. The transition point (from acceleration to deceleration phases) of current velocity appears earlier as the vegetation becomes denser. The peak value of the bulk entrainment coefficient Ebuik is inversely proportional to the vegetation density, while the final converged value of Ebuik is proportional to the vegetation density. Vegetation patches make the degree of fluctuation of the instantaneous entrainment coefficient Einst more intense, and even negative values appear locally, indicating that the gravity current is detrained into the ambient fluid. The velocity profiles of gravity current develop multi-peak patterns in stratified environments due to fingering intrusive patterns. Our analysis reveals that as the vegetation density increases, the generated wakes behind vegetation cylinders increase local entrainment and mixing, causing the density of current flow from vegetation to decrease and reach the neutral buoyancy layer of ambient fluids earlier, finally leading to a smaller separation depth.
Asthma with Fixed Airflow Obstruction: From Fixed to Personalized Approach
Authors: Bakakos Agamemnon , Vogli Stamatina , Dimakou Katerina , Hillas Georgios
Published: February 2022

Asthma is generally characterized by variable symptoms such as dyspnea and wheezing and variable airflow obstruction. This review focuses on a subset of patients suffering from asthma with persistent airflow limitation that is not fully reversible (asthma with fixed airflow obstruction, FAO). The pathophysiology, the risk factors and the clinical outcomes associated with FAO are presented, as well as the distinct clinical entity of severe asthma and its inflammatory subtypes (T2 and non-T2). The current strategies for the treatment of these endotypes and treatment of the distinct Asthma/COPD overlap (ACO) phenotype are described. Management and medical interventions in FAO and/or ACO patients demand a holistic approach, which is not yet clearly established in guidelines worldwide. Finally, a treatment algorithm that includes FAO/ACO management based on pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment, guideline-based management for specific co-morbidities, and modification of the risk factors is proposed.
Comparison of Human Urinary Exosomes Isolated via Ultracentrifugation Alone versus Ultracentrifugation Followed by SEC Column-Purification
Authors: Huang Kun , Garimella Sudha , Clay-Gilmour Alyssa , Vojtech Lucia , Armstrong Bridget , Bessonny Madison , Stamatikos Alexis
Published: February 2022

Chronic kidney disease is a progressive, incurable condition that involves a gradual loss of kidney function. While there are no non-invasive biomarkers available to determine whether individuals are susceptible to developing chronic kidney disease, small RNAs within urinary exosomes have recently emerged as a potential candidate to use for assessing renal function. Ultracentrifugation is the gold standard for urinary exosome isolation. However, extravesicular small RNA contamination can occur when isolating exosomes from biological fluids using ultracentrifugation, which may lead to misidentifying the presence of certain small RNA species in human urinary exosomes. Therefore, we characterized human urinary exosomal preparations isolated by ultracentrifugation alone, or via ultracentrifugation followed by size exclusion chromatography (SEC) column-purification. Using nanoparticle tracking analysis, we identified SEC fractions containing robust amounts of exosome-sized particles, that we further characterized using immunoblotting. When compared to exosomal preparations isolated by ultracentrifugation only, SEC fractionated exosomal preparations showed higher levels of the exosome-positive marker CD81. Moreover, while the exosome-negative marker calnexin was undetectable in SEC fractionated exosomal preparations, we did observe calnexin detection in the exosomal preparations isolated by ultracentrifugation alone, which implies contamination in these preparations. Lastly, we imaged SEC fractionated exosomal preparations using transmission electron microscopy to confirm these preparations contained human urinary exosomes. Our results indicate that combining ultracentrifugation and SEC column-purification exosome isolation strategies is a powerful approach for collecting contaminant-free human urinary exosomes and should be considered when exosomes devoid of contamination are needed for downstream applications.
Imperfect Competition, Real Estate Prices and New Stylized Facts
Authors: Kumar Ronald , Stauvermann Peter
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we develop an overlapping generation model with imperfect competition and land to provide a theoretical foundation for some empirical observations made since the end of the 1970s. The problem is that these new “stylized facts” do not coincide with Kaldor’s stylized facts and unfortunately the standard growth models are not able to explain these new facts. By using our model, we are able to theoretically derive these new facts and to provide a theoretical foundation for them. In particular, increasing market concentration leads to a decline in the labor income share, to a decline in the capital income share, to a decline in the natural interest rate, to an increasing wealth to income ratio, and to an over-proportional increase in land prices in developed countries. The model developed for analysis has close similarity with the standard neoclassical overlapping generation model with endogenous growth and land. The main difference between the standard neoclassical and the model in this paper is the market structure. Instead of assuming perfectly competitive markets, we assume an oligopolistic market structure. This leads to the occurrence of pure profits for firms and, accordingly, the input factors are no longer paid their marginal products.
Likelihood of Transformation to Green Infrastructure Using Ensemble Machine Learning Techniques in Jinan, China
Authors: Gulshad Khansa , Wang Yicheng , Li Na , Wang Jing , Yu Qian
Published: February 2022

Rapid urbanization influences green infrastructure (GI) development in cities. The government plans to optimize GI in urban areas, which requires understanding GI spatiotemporal trends in urban areas and driving forces influencing their pattern. Traditional GIS-based methods, used to determine the greening potential of vacant land in urban areas, are incapable of predicting future scenarios based on the past trend. Therefore, we propose a heterogeneous ensemble technique to determine the spatial pattern of GI development in Jinan, China, based on driving biophysical and socioeconomic factors. Data-driven artificial neural networks (ANN) and random forests (RF) are selected as base learners, while support vector machine (SVM) is used as a meta classifier. Results showed that the stacking model ANN-RF-SVM achieved the best test accuracy (AUC 0.941) compared to the individual ANN, RF, and SVM algorithms. Land surface temperature, distance to water bodies, population density, and rainfall are found to be the most influencing factors regarding vacant land conversion to GI in Jinan.
Optimization of Reclamation Measures in a Mining Area by Analysis of Variations in Soil Nutrient Grades under Different Types of Land Usage—A Case Study of Pingshuo Coal Mine, China
Authors: Fan Xiang , Guan Yanjun , Bai Zhongke , Zhou Wei , Zhu Chuxin
Published: February 2022

The development of reclaimed mine soils is normally spatially heterogeneous, making the fine management and utilization of reclaimed mined lands difficult. Soil nutrient grading can provide a scientific basis for the precise regulation of soil nutrients, but few related studies are available in reclaimed mined areas. This study aimed to quantify the spatiotemporal variations in soil nutrient grades under different land-use types in a reclaimed mined area on the Loess Plateau, China. The study area was graded by four soil nutrients (soil available potassium (SAK), soil available phosphorus (SAP), soil total nitrogen (STN), and soil organic matter (SOM)), and the variation features of soil nutrient grades in the initial stage of reclamation under four land-use types (i.e., cultivated land, grassland, forestland, and barren land) were systematically characterized by geostatistical analysis, pedodiversity analysis, and correspondence analysis. The results show that during the initial five years after reclamation, the soil nutrient grades of most reclaimed areas increased from Grade V and VI to Grade I–IV, while the improvements were significantly heterogeneous. Notably, the four land-use types had distinct variation characteristics. The barren land had the lowest SAP level, whereas it had the highest proportion, and medium–high grades of SAK, STN, and SOM (88.3, 100.0, and 100.0%, respectively). In terms of quantitative structure, it had the lowest richness index (S′, 2.5) and Shannon’s entropy index (H′, 0.7) and the highest evenness index (E′, 0.8). These results suggest that the barren land had relatively high and balanced nutrients, with the highest homogeneity among the four land-use types. The grassland had considerable improvement in all nutrients (especially SAP; 95.6% of the area had high SAP grades); however, its improvement was the most heterogeneous (S′ = 4.5, E′ = 0.7). As the second-most heterogeneous land-use type (S′ = 4.0, E′ = 0.8), the forestland had relatively low STN, SAP, and SAK levels due to high nutrient uptake and storage by tree species, but it had the highest proportion of area that reached high SOM grades (36.4%) and medium to high SOM grades (100.0%) due to its high community productivity. The cultivated land, which received fertilization for an additional three years, was the most imbalanced in terms of nutrients. It had the highest proportion of area that reached high SAP grades (98.0%); in contrast, its area proportions of low-grade SAK and SOM (69.0 and 32.9%, respectively) were the highest among the four land-use types. Based on the above comprehensive characterization of soil nutrient grade variation, guidance was given for fine management of reclaimed mined land and the optimization of reclamation measures.
Comparison of the Vegetation Index of Reclamation Mining Areas Calculated by Multi-Source Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Hu Jiameng , Ye Baoying , Bai Zhongke , Hui Jiawei
Published: February 2022

Following vegetation reclamation in mining areas, secondary damage may occur at any time, especially in locations that have been mined for decades or even hundreds of years. Effective monitoring strategies are required to accurately assess plant growth and to detect the ecological effects of reclamation. Single satellite monitoring is often difficult to ensure vegetation monitoring needs, therefore multi-source remote sensing is preferred. Different sensor parameters and variation in spectral bands can lead to differences in the type of data obtained, and subsequently, methods for evaluating these differences are required for simultaneous sensor/band use. In this study, NDVI was selected to characterize the vegetation growth of the Antaibao Open-pit Coal Mine Dump by analyzing the correlation between different types of sensors (Landsat 8, HJ, Sentinel-2) and vegetation greenness in order to facilitate satellites’ replacement and supplement. Results show that: (1) Landsat 8 and Sentinel-2 satellite have a high relevance for monitoring the vegetation, but the correlation between these two sensors and HJ is relatively low, (2) the correlation between NDVI values varied by vegetation type, tree (R = 0.8698) > combined grass, shrub and tree (R = 0.7788) > grass (R = 0.7619) > shrub (R = 0.7282), and (3) the phenomenon of “Low value is high, high value is low” in the NDVI value with HJ satellite monitoring may have been caused by a weak signal strength and low sensitivity of the HJ sensor. Comparing the correlation of multi-source sensors to monitor the vegetation in the mining areas can be helpful to determine the alternative supplement of sensors through conversion formulas, which are helpful in realizing the long-term monitoring of dumps and detecting reclamation response in mining areas.
The Vulnerability of Emerging Sign Languages: (E)merging Sign Languages?
Authors: Jaraisy Marah , Stamp Rose
Published: February 2022

Emerging sign languages offer linguists an opportunity to observe language emergence in real time, far beyond the capabilities of spoken language studies. Sign languages can emerge in different social circumstances—some in larger heterogeneous communities, while others in smaller and more homogeneous communities. Often, examples of the latter, such as Ban Khor Sign Language (in Thailand), Al Sayyid Bedouin Sign Language (in Israel), and Mardin Sign Language (in Turkey), arise in communities with a high incidence of hereditary deafness. Traditionally, these communities were in limited contact with the wider deaf community in the region, and so the local sign language remained relatively uninfluenced by the surrounding signed language(s). Yet, in recent years, changes in education, mobility, and social communication patterns have resulted in increased interaction between sign languages. Rather than undergoing language emergence, these sign languages are now facing a state of “mergence” with the majority sign language used by the wider deaf community. This study focuses on the language contact situation between two sign languages in Kufr Qassem, Israel. In the current situation, third-generation deaf signers in Kufr Qassem are exposed to the local sign language, Kufr Qassem Sign Language (KQSL), and the dominant sign language of the wider Israeli deaf community, Israeli Sign Language (ISL), both of which emerged around 90 years ago. In the current study, we analyzed the signing of twelve deaf sign-bilinguals from Kufr Qassem whilst they engaged in a semi-spontaneous task in three language conditions: (1) with another bilingual signer, (2) with a monolingual KQSL signer, and (3) with a monolingual ISL signer. The results demonstrate that KQSL-ISL sign-bilinguals show a preference for ISL in all conditions, even when paired with a monolingual KQSL signer. We conclude that the degree of language shift in Kufr Qassem is considerable. KQSL may be endangered due to the risk of social and linguistic mergence of the KQSL community with the ISL community in the near future.
Impact of Caffeine on Alzheimer’s Disease Pathogenesis—Protective or Risk Factor?
Authors: Schreiner Thomas Gabriel , Popescu Bogdan Ovidiu
Published: February 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common dementia worldwide, remains without an effective treatment to this day despite intensive research conducted during the last decades. In this context, researchers have turned their attention towards the prevention of this pathology, focusing on early detection and better control of the most important risk factors, concomitantly with trying to find potentially protective factors that may delay the onset of AD. From the multitude of factors studied, coffee (especially its main component, caffeine) is a current interesting research topic, taking into consideration the contradictory results of recent years’ studies. On the one hand, much of the evidence from fundamental research suggests the potentially protective trait of caffeine in AD, while other data mainly from human studies lean toward no correlation or even suggesting that caffeine is a veritable risk factor for dementia. Given the methodological heterogeneity of the studies, this review aims to bring new evidence regarding this topic and to try to clearly establish a correlation between the two entities. Thus, in the first part, the authors make a clear distinction between the effects of coffee and the effects of caffeine in AD, presenting a rich basis of clinical trials on both animal models and the human subject. Subsequently, the main pathophysiological mechanisms that would explain the action of caffeine in the etiopathogenesis of AD are reviewed. Finally, the role of computational models is presented, having beneficial impact on both better understanding of the disease mechanism and the development of new therapeutic approaches for AD prevention.
A Framework on the Use of Agile Methods in Logistics Startups
Authors: Zielske Malena , Held Tobias , Kourouklis Athanasios
Published: February 2022

Background: The logistics industry has seen the emergence of many startups in recent years. Many of these logistics startups use new technologies to develop disruptive products, services or platforms that are based on software. This paper presents the results of a Delphi study and a survey that were consolidated in a framework. The purpose is to understand the benefits that logistics startups derive from using agile methods, the difficulties they face in using these methods and the evolution of logistics startups in terms of using agile methods. Methods: A Delphi study with 29 experts and a global survey with 95 participants was conducted to look at the implementation of agile methods. The largest group of participants were members of (top) management, agile coaches and team leaders. Results: The framework consolidates gathered data to demonstrate how logistics startups apply agile methods and practices based on the results of the Delphi study and the survey, and how the usage of agile methods changes over the age of logistics startups. The results indicate that younger logistics startups use agile methods predominantly to design product features and maximise customer value, whereas logistics startups older than five years focus more on the optimisation of internal processes. Conclusions: The value of the present study lies in its contribution to the hitherto hardly examined research field of agility in logistics startups and the notable views of the experienced participants.
Study on Compression Deformation and Damage Characteristics of Pine Needle Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Using DIC
Authors: Wang Yonggang , Gao Shan , Li Wei
Published: February 2022

Natural fiber-reinforced concrete (NFRC) has the advantages of environmental protection, energy conservation and regeneration. However, studies conducted to improve the macro mechanical properties of concrete by pine needle fiber have achieved good results. In this paper, the deformation and compression damage of pine needle fiber-reinforced concrete (PNFRC) are analyzed by digital image correlation; a fractal dimension is used to quantify the shape of PNFRC after compression damage; and the results of scanning electron microscopy confirm the effect of fiber treatment on deformation and damage of concrete. The results showed that the horizontal strain field of PNFRC has strain concentration zones in the elastic deformation stage, indicating that the fiber enhances the deformation ability of concrete. The defined damage factor can reflect the damage of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC). The damage curve of natural fiber concrete increases evenly and slowly compared to ordinary concrete.
Theoretical and Experimental Research of Hydrogen Solid Solution in Mg and Mg-Al System
Authors: Lyu Jinzhe , Elman Roman R. , Svyatkin Leonid A. , Kudiiarov Viktor N.
Published: February 2022

The study of hydrogen storage properties of Mg-based thin films is of interest due to their unique composition, interface, crystallinity, and high potential for use in hydrogen-storage systems. Alloying Mg with Al leads to the destabilization of the magnesium hydride reducing the heat of reaction, increases the nucleation rate, and decreases the dehydriding temperature. The purpose of our study is to reveal the role of the aluminum atom addition in hydrogen adsorption and accumulation in the Mg-H solid solution. Ab initio calculations of aluminum and hydrogen binding energies in magnesium were carried out in the framework of density functional theory. Hydrogen distribution and accumulation in Mg and Mg-10%Al thin films were experimentally studied by the method of glow-discharge optical emission spectroscopy and using a hydrogen analyzer, respectively. It was found that a hydrogen distribution gradient is observed in the Mg-10%Al coating, with more hydrogen on the surface and less in the bulk. Moreover, the hydrogen concentration in the Mg-10%Al is lower compared to Mg. This can be explained by the lower hydrogen binding energy in the magnesium-aluminum system compared with pure magnesium.