bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a contactless sensor system to support rail track geometry on-board monitoring
Authors: Antognoli Marco , Bureika Gintautas , Kaviani Nadia , Ricci Stefano , Rizzetto Luca , Skrickij Viktor
Published: October 2021

This paper is focused on the ongoing research, within a work package of the Shift2Rail project Assets4Rail, related to the development of an on-board contactless sensor system able to measure the wheel's transversal position in relation to the rail in order to support track geometry measurements. In particular, this research work focuses on developing a sensor system to support track geometry monitoring performed by the master system under development in other Shift2Rail projects. The aim is to develop a sensor system to detect the relative transversal position between the wheelset and the rail, suitable for the use on commercial (in-service) vehicles. In fact, a possible track geometry monitoring system alternative to the sophisticated and expensive optical/inertial systems and suitable for use on commercial vehicles, could be based on the measurement of accelerations. However, some parameters of the track geometry, such as lateral alignment, are extremely difficult to determine through the measurement of accelerations. In this case, it is necessary to find an innovative sensor system able to determine the wheel's transversal position in relation to the rail. For this reason, this project intends to focus on innovative systems that allow the detection of the wheel-track position by avoiding the optical/inertial systems already used on diagnostic trains. After a state-of-the-art overview on the potentially applicable technologies for the sensor system to be developed, a corresponding analytical tool for comparison of contactless sensors to choose the most suitable technology has been developed and two candidate technologies (stereo and thermal cameras) have been selected and assessed by means of a test platform in the facilities laboratory of VGTU (Vilnius Tech). This work will be the basis for developing a concept design of the sensor system together with a montage solution, which will be finally tested on a vehicle in real operation conditions.
The speed factor in Swept Path Analysis
Authors: Gkoutzini Andromachi , Lemonakis Panagiotis , Kaliabetsos George , Eliou Nikolaos
Published: October 2021

The determination of the geometric vehicle movement is significant for the appropriate design of a road element, such as an intersection or a parking lot, because it ensures safe, smooth and without abrupt changes movements especially for heavy vehicles. Consequently, the accurate and correct swept path analysis of the vehicles determines the geometry of the horizontal alignment. Also, the selection of the design vehicle is a factor that affects the geometric characteristics of the analysis. The AASHTO Green Book presents the minimum turning paths, the maximum steering angle and the minimum centerline turning radius (CTR) for typical design vehicles. In order to simplify the geometrical problem of swept path analysis, the speed in sharp curve road is considered to be low and more specifically less than 15 km/h. However, this condition does not represent the actual vehicle movement, gap that the present paper aims to bridge by performing swept path analysis for increased travel speeds. There are only few cases, especially along urban road network that the lateral force applied on the vehicles that traverse horizontal transition curves are neglected due to low travel speed. On the contrary, in other road projects the transition curve is an integral design element and have advantages in geometric regularity of heavy vehicles movement because of their steering mechanism. Based on the literature review, in this study the design vehicles paths which are considered as clothoid shapes are correlated with their corresponding travel speeds. The implemented methodology considers various design vehicles which travel in various speeds, performing U-Turns.
Performance of concrete mixtures containing MSWI bottom ash
Authors: Gražulytė Judita , Vaitkus Audrius , Laurinavičius Alfredas , Šernas Ovidijus
Published: October 2021

In the European Union, each inhabitant annually generates about 500 kg of municipal waste. About 30 % of this are incinerated in waste-to-energy plants. It results in approximately 20 million tonnes of residues known as municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWI) bottom ash, which is typically landfilled. To address the continuous growth of landfills and to implement zero waste and circular economy policies, researchers are focusing on possibilities to use MSWI bottom ash in civil engineering instead of landfilling. One of them is to replace natural aggregates in concrete mixtures applicable for roads with MSWI bottom ash. Therefore, the subject of this research is the performance of concrete mixtures containing different amount (0–100%) and fraction (0/5–0/16) of MSWI bottom ash. Four specimens with similar aggregate gradations were designed. Each of them was mixed with two different amount (340 kg/m3 and 300 kg/m3) of cement (CEM I 42.5 R). In total eight different concrete mixtures were tested and analysed. The performance of designed concrete mixtures containing different amount of MSWI bottom ash was evaluated according to density and compressive strength after 28 days. The results showed good MSWI bottom ash performance as a substitute for natural aggregates. The compressive strength after 28 days varied from 21 MPa to 29 MPa depending on the aggregate type and amount of MSWI bottom ash and cement. For concrete mixtures made only of MSWI bottom ash at least 340 kg/m3 of cement is required to achieve compressive strength higher than 20 MPa.
Uncertainty estimation on road safety analysis using bayesian deep neural networks
Authors: Pan Guangyuan , Qili Chen , Liping Fu , Ming Yu , Matthew Muresan
Published: October 2021

Deep neural networks have been successfully used in many different areas of traffic engineering, such as crash prediction, intelligent signal optimization and real-time road surface condition monitoring. The benefits of deep neural networks are often uniquely suited to solve certain problems and can offer improvements in performance when compared to traditional methods. In collision prediction, uncertainty estimation is a critical area that can benefit from their application, and accurate information on the reliability of a model’s predictions can increase public confidence in those models. Applications of deep neural networks to this problem that consider these effects have not been studied previously. This paper develops a Bayesian deep neural network for crash prediction and examines the reliability of the model based on three key methods: layer-wise greedy unsupervised learning, Bayesian regularization and adapted marginalization. An uncertainty equation for the model is also proposed for this domain for the first time. To test the performance, eight years of car collision data collected from Highway 401, Canada, is used, and three experiments are designed.
OPTIBOX - Software Tool for the OPTImal distribution of hot BOx aXle detectors
Authors: Vale Cecília , Amate Carlos Saborido , Bonifácio Cristiana
Published: October 2021

Axle bearings may constitute a critical component with regards to safety due to the fact that they can present sudden failures. Hot box detectors are wayside devices that aim at identifying axle bearings with a high potential of failure. Therefore, it is important to place these sensors along the network in order to minimize the risk of axle bearing failures that could derive in train derailments. How many and where to install these wayside devices depends on the requirements of each country and on the available investment capacity. However, there is no tool in the market that helps the Infrastructure Managers to prioritize locations for hot box detectors. In this context, the OPTIBOX tool that is presented in this article appears as useful and easy-to-use tool to guide Infrastructure Managers in the selection of the most appropriate locations for hot box detectors according to historical data of the line and its main relevant characteristics, such as speed, type of trains or volume of traffic.
Recycling construction and demolition wastes within hydraulically bound mixtures for road pavements
Authors: Pasetto Marco , Baliello Andrea , Giacomello Giovanni , Pasquini Emiliano
Published: October 2021

The recycling of Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW) is an actual challenge regarding the construction industry because of the increasing volumes worldwide produced and the related environmental impacts. In this regard, a suitable application can be developed in the road construction field, in particular for the production of hydraulically bound mixtures for road subbase and foundation layers. In this sense, the reuse of CDW can strongly enhance the environmental sustainability of road construction thanks to the achievable savings of natural resources such as the mineral aggregates obtained from quarry operations. Indeed, the utilization of a CDW as aggregate must ensure the production of mixtures with adequate mechanical and environmental characteristics. Therefore, the herein paper presents the results of an experimental characterization aimed at assessing the suitability of CDW for the production of hydraulically bound mixtures for road pavements. In particular, the main mechanical properties of some mixtures including different percentages and gradations of CDW were analysed and compared with the main technical prescriptions and classification criteria indicated by the reference European standards. Basic properties and production processes of the CDW materials were also studied to determine their effects on the optimum binder and water contents of the mixtures. The research clearly demonstrated that the use of a preliminary-washed CDW coarse aggregate was able to enhance the overall structural properties and the water resistance of mixtures.
Risk ranking on existing two-lane rural roads with respect to alignment and at grade intersections
Authors: Matragos Vassilios , Apostoleris Konstantinos , Psarianos Basil , Mavromatis Stergios
Published: October 2021

The objective of this paper is the elaboration of a suitable methodology capable of deploying elements that characterize the existing infrastructure on two-lane rural roads, regarding road geometric elements (horizontal and vertical alignment, superelevation, sight distance), as well as location and geometric elements of intersections with the scope to evaluate the built-in road safety. The overall target is the utilization of these elements to lead to evaluation coefficients that point out the risk level of the examined road sections, as well as the critical areas, in terms of safety levels, curved sections and intersections. In this context, a hierarchy of critical parameters affecting the risk rating of a road network with respect to geometric design and at-grade intersections was primarily carried out. Appropriate mathematical equations were created for each parameter, based on current road design guidelines and the corresponding Crash Reduction Factors (CRF) presented in the literature. Initially, case studies were conducted, out of which special diagrams were produced to assess the risk level of each parameter. Subsequently, a basic statistical analysis of the results was carried out , using regression factors aiming at developing an appropriate mathematical model for the estimation of the risk level. The same analysis was performed for each parameter separately and appropriate weight coefficients were sought in order to obtain a combined rating that characterizes each road section, while at the same time identifies those critical intersections that present high probability of accident occurrence. Finally, data were collected from a significant sample of the existing two-lane road network of Greece, about 1000km of road network with more than 4000 intersections (unpaved road intersections were also included), in order to assess the results of the proposed methodology.
Reliability of vehicle movement simulation results in roundabout design procedure based on the rules of design vehicle movement geometry
Authors: Džambas Tamara , Dragčević Vesna , Bezina Šime , Grgić Marijan
Published: October 2021

Previous studies have shown that a valid roundabout design approach should include a determination of design elements based on the position of design vehicle’s movement trajectories obtained by swept path analysis in early project stages, and not a conduction of swept path analysis at the end of design process. Several software which enable such significant progress in the design practice (optimal design of roundabout elements based on the results of vehicle movement simulation) are currently available on the market. Consequently, it is of great importance to know their accuracy. The reliability of vehicle movement simulation results is usually verified by field tests in which the distances between the test vehicle’s movement trajectories are measured by means of a meter, which is a dilatory and time-consuming process. Within the scope of this study, a new approach for determination of the position of test vehicle’s movement trajectories at the test site using a precise GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) device is described. The test vehicle was conducting a critical manoeuvre (left turn for 270°) for ten times, and the distances between its movement trajectories were determined by means of a meter and a precise GNSS device. The situation on the test site was then simulated on a computer and the assessment of the accuracy of chosen software for vehicle movement simulation was made.
Limits of Insurers’ Freedom in Shaping Coverage in Liability Insurance for Entrepreneurs
Authors: Maśniak Dorota , Rogoziński Dawid
Published: October 2021

The aim of the present article is to answer a question about the limits of insurers' freedom in shaping the scope of coverage and exclusions of liability in general terms and conditions of the entrepreneur's liability insurance as well as in individual additional provisions. Due to the high level of complexity and lack of clarity of standard contracts currently applied in the insurance market, their appropriate denotation and interpretation pose a difficult challenge – especially for the judicature. In an attempt to address this challenge, the authors analyse the potential contractual liability of an entrepreneur and show the extent to which it should be covered by civil liability insurance in line with reasonable customer expectations.
Analiza wybranych błędów projektowych
i montażowych połączeń balustrad
z płytami balkonowymi
Authors: Wardach Maciej , Talipski Wojciech
Published: October 2021

Nieprawidłowo zaprojektowane lub wykonane połączenia balustrad prowadzą do degradacji warstw wykończeniowych, powstawania nadmiernych przemieszczeń, zmniejszenia poczucia bezpieczeństwa
mieszkańców, a nawet awarii budowlanych.
W artykule wskazano na genezę wad, a także
zbadano stan degradacji połączeń balustrad
i wykończenia płyt balkonowych w budynku
OWT po 21 latach eksploatacji. Ponadto przeanalizowano szereg współcześnie wykonywanych projektów balustrad oraz zweryfikowano
obliczeniowo nośność połączeń w różnorodnych wariantach. Brak w aktualnych normach jednoznacznej wartości obciążeń przekazywanych na balustrady może powodować przekroczenie stanów granicznych w stalowych elementach kotwiących i prowadzić do ich degradacji lub awarii. Konsekwencją tych wad jest
konieczność licznych napraw oraz pogorszenie komfortu mieszkańców. Istotne jest jednoznaczne określenie dopuszczalnych obciążeń
działających na balustrady i opracowanie wytycznych sposobu ich montażu.
Wymóg nasłonecznienia bezpośredniego jako ograniczenie możliwości kształtowania w Polsce struktury urbanistycznej zespołów zabudowy mieszkaniowej o wysokich walorach dospołecznych
Authors: Gachowski Marek
Published: October 2021

Wymóg nasłonecznienia bezpośredniego jako ograniczenie możliwości kształtowania w Polsce struktury urbanistycznej zespołów zabudowy mieszkaniowej o wysokich walorach dospołecznych.
Die Kameraaugen des Fritz Lang
Authors: Block Axel
Published: October 2021

Der Film der Weimarer Republik hat einen großen Einfluss auf die Filmgeschichte ausgeübt. International anerkannt sind bis heute besonders die bildgestalterischen Meisterleistungen dieser Jahre.

Die Sprache der bewegten Bilder emanzipierte sich im Film der Weimarer Republik von den tradierten Formen der Bildgestaltung aus Malerei und Fotografie, und auch die Spannung zwischen visueller Gestaltung und erzählerischer Dramaturgie, zwischen Kamera­ und Regiearbeit, beflügelte beide Seiten zu Innovation und Kreativität. Der Filmhistoriker Paul Rotha vertrat gar die These, dass jedes fotografische Mittel, das die dramatische Kraft der Einstellung unterstützt, seinen Ursprung in den Filmstudios der Weimarer Republik hat. Allerdings wurde bis heute nie genau analysiert, wie die Wirkung und Aussagekraft dieser Bilder handwerklich und künstlerisch hergestellt wurde und wie die sich rasant entwickelnde Filmtechnik zu immer neuen bildsprachlichen Experimenten führte.

Anhand von neun Filmausschnitten diskutiert Axel Block die Frage, welchen Einfluss Kameramänner wie Karl Freund, Carl Hoffmann, Rudolph Maté, Günther Rittau und Fritz Arno Wagner auf den Film der Weimarer Republik ausübten und wie dabei die Zusammenarbeit mit den Regisseuren funktionierte. In den Blick kommen dabei nicht nur mehrere Filme Fritz Langs, darunter "Dr. Mabuse, der Spieler" (1921/22), "Metropolis" (1925/26) und "M – Eine Stadt sucht einen Mörder" (1931), sondern auch weitere Klassiker wie F. W. Murnaus "Der letzte Mann" (1924), G. W. Pabsts "Die Liebe der Jeanne Ney" (1927) und Joseph von Sternbergs "Der blaue Engel" (1929/30). Abgerundet werden die Analysen mit ihrem Fokus auf Bildgestaltung, Bewegung, Lichtführung und Korrespondenz zur Inszenierung und Dramaturgie mit einem umfangreichen Glossar, in dem zahlreiche Fachausdrücke und handwerkliches Grundwissen erläutert werden.
Production of Pectin from Citrus Residues: Process Alternatives and Insights on Its Integration under the Biorefinery Concept
Authors: David Durán-Aranguren Daniel , Juliana Alméciga Ramírez Caren , Catalina Villabona Díaz Laura , Ayalde Valderrama Manuela , Sierra Rocío
Published: October 2021

This chapter describes the pectin production process from citrus residues. It discusses the importance of essential oils removal before processing through steam distillation, hydrodistillation, or solvent extraction. Also, it presents different extraction methods (acid hydrolysis, microwave-assisted acid hydrolysis, and hydrodistillation) that have been employed and different solvents that can be used for its purification. Since all these processing parameters can affect the final pectin yield and quality, a discussion is made on which processing options and conditions could be used based on recently reported data. The best operational conditions based on the percentages of pectin recovery and their relationship with quality parameters, such as the galacturonic acid content and degree of esterification are presented. Finally, a discussion is made regarding the opportunities for its integration under the biorefinery concept that could help to enhance several economic and environmental aspects of the process.
Vegetable Proteins: Nutritional Value, Sustainability, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Ahmed Nazir , Ali Anwar , Riaz Sakhawat , Ahmad Arslan , Aqib Muhammad
Published: October 2021

The growing world population demands more production of proteins for healthy growth and prevention of protein-energy malnutrition. The animal proteins are not sufficient to meet the requirement of daily proteins intake. Furthermore, due to limited resources of animal number, land, water, environmental impact, the demand for vegetable proteins and sustainability have been increasing tremendously. This chapter will outline the demand scenarios of vegetable proteins, nutritional aspects, and technological challenges in product development and consumer acceptance. It will summarize the potential of vegetable proteins related to health and existing diseases. The consumption of vegetable proteins, development of product, economic, sustainability, and food safety aspects will be summarized.
Understanding Root Biology for Enhancing Cotton Production
Authors: H. Meshram Jayant , S. Mahajan Sunil , Nagrale Dipak , Gokte-Narkhedkar Nandini , Kumbhalkar Harish
Published: October 2021

Cotton is an important commercial crop grown in India. It occupies an area of about 12.7 million hectares and is grown both in irrigated as well as rainfed tracts. In such situations, roots are very important organ for plant growth and development, since they act as anchors, providing mechanical support, and chemical extractors for the growing plant. Root length density sets the proportion of water uptake both under wet conditions and dry soils. Cotton plants with efficient root system capture water and nutrients from soil having these features of longer tap root. It is widely accepted that breeding efforts on aboveground traits are not sufficient to the necessary yield advantage. Shifting the emphasis to analyzing the root system would provide an additional means to enhance yield under changing climatic condition. Belowground image analysis studies point to the importance of root system architecture for optimizing roots and rhizosphere dynamics for sustainable cotton production. In this review, we describe the cotton root biological context in which root-environment interactions providing an overview of the root growth morphology species wise, phytohormone action that control root growth, root anatomical significance in drying soils, biotic and abiotic stresses involved in controlling root growth and environmental responses.
Primary Monosymptomatic Nocturnal Enuresis in Children and Correlation with Sleep Disorders in Arak, Iran
Authors: Khalajmehri Maryam , Yousefichaijan Parsa , Rezagholizamenjany Masoud , Salehi Bahman , Sadeghi-Sedeh Bahman , Taherahmadi Hassan
Published: October 2021

Background: Nocturnal enuresis is a symptom defined as enuresis in children with higher than 5 years of age that might have mutual connection to sleep disturbances. This condition might be a stressful factor for children and their families. Objectives: This study aimed to find the correlation between primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE), as a stressful factor and sleep disorders. Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 132 children, including 66 children with nocturnal enuresis as the case group and 66 healthy children as the control group. The two groups were homogenous in age, gender, and other demographic characteristics. The organized sleep disorder questionnaire based on sleep disorder diagnostic criteria (using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision) was used in this study. The correlation between PMNE and sleep disorders was investigated based on the chi-square test on SPSS software (version 23). Results: The mean scores of the subjects with sleep disorders in the control and case groups were 0.38 ± 0.78 and 2.24 ± 1.73, respectively. Therefore, there were significant differences between the two groups in sleep disorders (P = 0.001). In addition, primary insomnia, hypersomnia, circadian sleep rhythm, and sleep terror disorders in the case group were higher than the control group (P = 0.001). Conclusions: The PMNE has been defined as a risk factor for sleep disorders.
Persian Version of Social Appearance Anxiety Scale: A Psychometric Evaluation
Authors: Goodarzi Mana , Noori Mohammad , Aslzakerlighvan Maryam , Abasi Imaneh
Published: October 2021

Background: Social appearance anxiety refers to the fear of negative evaluation and judgment about appearance in social situations. Previous scales have focused more on body dysmorphic, and a tool that can measure this anxiety in social situations has not been previously introduced. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale (SAAS) in the student community. Methods: This psychometric study was conducted on a sample of 415 Iranian students in 2020 using the convenience sampling method. The participants completed the Social Physique Anxiety Scale, Body Dysmorphic Scale, and Body Shape Scale. Cronbach’s alpha, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and convergent validity were used to examine internal consistency. The data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 24) and AMOS software (version 21). Results: Cronbach’s alpha for total score was 0.95. The relationship between the SAAS and Body Dysmorphic Scale (r = 0.73; P < 0.01), Body Shape Scale (r = 0.46; P < 0.01), and Social Physique Anxiety Scale (r = 0.79; P < 0.01) showed good convergent validity. The EFA extracted one factor that explained 0.60 of the total variance. After testing the one-factor model in CFA, the analysis showed good fitness indexes (comparative fit index = 0.95; goodness of fit index = 0.91). The item-total correlation of the Iranian SAAS was within a range of 0.51 - 0.84. Conclusions: The present scale has a high internal consistency and reliability and can be used for research and evaluation objectives in clinical settings in Iranian society.
Cerebral Glioblastoma: A Review on Genetic Alterations, Signaling Pathways, and Clinical Managements
Authors: Hasanzadeh Nima , Niknejad Azadeh
Published: October 2021

Context: Glioblastoma, previously known as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), is a grade IV astrocytoma that frequently affects patients with a mean age of 45 and above. It is generally categorized into primary and secondary subtypes, based on research conducted by Hans Joachim Scherer. Evidence Acquisition: This review concentrates on cellular and genetic drawbacks that can lead to the appearance of glioblastoma. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) was the main source used for writing this review article, followed by Google scholar. The following keywords were used to retrieve articles: 'glioblastoma', 'brain tumors', 'glioma', 'LOH', and 'cellular and signaling pathways in glioblastoma'. Results: Several genetic alterations and cellular pathways are involved in the appearance and progression of glioblastoma, including loss of heterozygosity (LoH), TP53 mutation, isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) mutation, P16INK4/RB1 pathway, and EGFR/PTEN/Akt/mTOR pathway. The majority (70%) of primary glioblastomas are caused by (LoH), and it mostly occurs in older people. Secondary glioblastoma is mainly manifested by TP53 mutation and usually affects younger people. Understanding the alterations and cellular mechanisms involved in glioblastoma is important to develope new therapeutic regimes. Surgery, radiation therapy, temozolomide, and TTFields are the four most important therapeutic options available for treating patients. Conclusions: In this review, the genetic alterations and cellular pathways which could lead to the appearance of this tumor were highlighted, and the latest options for treating patients dealing with glioblastoma were discussed.
First- and Second-Line Palliative Systemic Treatment Outcomes in a Real-World Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer Cohort
Authors: Pijnappel Esther N. , Dijksterhuis Willemieke P.M. , van der Geest Lydia G. , de Vos-Geelen Judith , de Groot Jan Willem B. , Homs Marjolein Y.V. , Creemers Geert-jan , Mohammad Nadia Haj , Besselink Marc G. , van Laarhoven Hanneke W.M. , Wilmink Johanna W. , _ _
Published: October 2021

Background: Metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by a poor survival rate, which can be improved by systemic treatment. Consensus on the most optimal first- and second-line palliative systemic treatment is lacking. The aim of this study was to describe the use of first- and second-line systemic treatment, overall survival (OS), and time to failure (TTF) of first- and second-line treatment in metastatic PDAC in a real-world setting. Patients and Methods: Patients with synchronous metastatic PDAC diagnosed between 2015 and 2018 who received systemic treatment were selected from the nationwide Netherlands Cancer Registry. OS and TTF were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier curves with log-rank test and multivariable Cox proportional hazard analyses. Results: The majority of 1,586 included patients received FOLFIRINOX (65%), followed by gemcitabine (18%), and gemcitabine + nab-paclitaxel (13%) in the first line. Median OS for first-line FOLFIRINOX, gemcitabine + nab-paclitaxel, and gemcitabine monotherapy was 6.6, 4.7, and 2.9 months, respectively. Compared to FOLFIRINOX, gemcitabine + nab-paclitaxel showed significantly inferior OS after adjustment for confounders (hazard ratio [HR], 1.20; 95% CI, 1.02–1.41), and gemcitabine monotherapy was independently associated with a shorter OS and TTF (HR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.71–2.30 and HR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.88–2.83, respectively). Of the 121 patients who received second-line systemic treatment, 33% received gemcitabine + nab-paclitaxel, followed by gemcitabine (31%) and FOLFIRINOX (10%). Conclusions: Based on population-based data in patients with metastatic PDAC, treatment predominantly consists of FOLFIRINOX in the first line and gemcitabine with or without nab-paclitaxel in the second line. FOLFIRINOX in the first line shows superior OS compared with gemcitabine with or without nab-paclitaxel.
Professional and Social Activities of Engineer Jānis Jagars (1894–1970)
Authors: Zvirgzdiņš Indulis
Published: October 2021

The research reveals facts about the family of engineer Jānis Jagars (1894–1970) and the versatility of his work in the 20th century. He studied at Riga Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and stayed in Russia during World War I. After returning to Latvia in the beginning of 1919, he graduated from the Baltic Technical University (BTU; Baltische Technische Hochschule, also Baltic Higher Technical School), which was established on the basis of RPI. J. Jagars participated in the activities of the Latvian Social Democratic Workers’ Party (LSDWP), which supported his becoming the Head of the Riga City Construction Board. After the coup organized by Kārlis Ulmanis (1877–1942) he was arrested, then – released, after which he headed an engineering office. In June 1940, he joined the government headed by Augusts Kirhenšteins (1872–1963), where he held the position of Minister of Transport. He evacuated to the Soviet Russia during World War II. After the war, J. Jagars was an Assistant Professor at the State University of Latvia (SUL) and worked in various construction design institutes.
Daži agrāk aktuāli akadēmiskās dzīves aspekti: venia legendi un privātdocenta statuss pasaulē un Rīgas Politehnikumā (1862–1896)
Authors: Baltiņš Māris
Published: October 2021

Pētījumā aplūkots privātdocenta statuss, kas pasaulē tika ieviests 18. gadsimtā un, sākot no 19. gadsimta otrās puses līdz Otrā pasaules kara beigām, pastāvēja arī Latvijā. Privātdocenta statuss salīdzināts ar citu pasaules valstu, galvenokārt vācu tipa universitātēm. Jēdzienu «venia legendi» un «privātdocents» skaidrojumi ar piemēriem no Rīgas Politehnikuma (RP) mācībspēku darbības atspoguļo šos jēdzienus no dažādiem aspektiem, lai 21. gadsimtā būtu saprotams to lietojums iepriekšējos gadsimtos. Autors pētījumam izmantojis arhīvu dokumentus un bibliotēku krājumus, balstoties ne tikai Latvijas, bet arī Krievijas, Vācijas un citu valstu zinātnieku atziņās.

The study examines the status of a private docent, the academic position which was introduced across the world in the 18th century and which also existed in Latvia from the second half of the 19th century until the end of World War II. The status of the private docent as it used to be understood in Latvia is compared with other countries, mainly considering German-type universities. Definition of the terms «venia legendi» and «private docent» providing examples of academic activity of the lecturers of Riga Polytechnicum (RP) allow considering these concepts from various perspectives in order to make their meaning and usage in the previous centuries transparent for the users in the 21st century. Conducting the present research, the author has used archival documents and library collections, the theoretical framework includes the findings of not only the Latvian scientists, but also researchers from Russia, Germany and other
countries.
Valerijs Bitenieks – no Rīgas Politehniskā institūta studenta līdz būvuzņēmējam neatkarīgajā Latvijā
Authors: Lanka Ērika
Published: October 2021

Pētījums par Rīgas Politehniskā institūta (RPI) Arhitektūras un celtniecības fakultātes absolventu (1986) Valeriju Bitenieku atklāj padomju studentu ikdienu 20. gadsimta 80. gados, jaunā inženiera darbību, izmēģinot dažādas iespējas darba tirgū un inženiera izaugsmi par veiksmīgu būvuzņēmēju neatkarīgajā Latvijā 21. gadsimtā. Tajā izsekots V. Bitenieka dzīvei no bērnības līdz mūsdienām, pievēršot uzmanību viņa profesionālajai darbībai. Veicot pētī¬jumu, gūts ieskats par studentu prakses un ārpusstudiju aktivitātēm padomju laikā, iegūti nepublicēti un plašākai sabiedrībai nezināmi fotomateriāli.

A paper on Valerijs Bitenieks, a graduate (1986) of the Faculty of Architecture and Civil Engineering of Riga Polytechnic Institute (RPI), reflects on the daily life of the Soviet students in the 1980s, the work of a young engineer while he was trying various opportunities in the labour market and the engineer’s growth as a successful contractor in the independent Latvia in the 21st century. It traces the life of V. Bitenieks from his childhood to the present day, paying attention to his professional activities. The research provides an insight into students’ internships and extracurricular activities during the Soviet era. Unpublished photographic material unknown to the general public has been obtained.
Registro Argentino de Enfermedades Valvulares (ARGENVAL)
Authors: Benger Juan , Constantin Ivan , Carrero María C. , Makhoul Silvia , Baratta Sergio , Cintora Federico , Bagnati Rodrigo P.
Published: October 2021

Introducción: La enfermedad valvular constituye una patología prevalente y con considerable morbimortalidad. A pesar de que representa una problemática de salud pública reconocida, en nuestro país, no disponemos de datos sobre su epidemiología. El objetivo del trabajo fue identificar la prevalencia y etiología de las enfermedades valvulares en los pacientes que concurren a los laboratorios de ecocardiografía en forma ambulatoria. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un registro retrospectivo, observacional y multicéntrico, en el que participaron 18 centros de Argentina. A todos los pacientes se les realizó un ecocardiograma transtorácico completo, en el cual el análisis de la función valvular fue realizado por operadores calificados. Se recolectaron variables demográficas, causas y grado de compromiso de la función valvular. Resultados: Se incluyeron 3020 pacientes (51,2% de sexo masculino), con una edad media de 58,2 ± 16,8 años. En el 61,7%, se observó algún grado de alteración valvular; en el 9,5%, al menos, una valvulopatía de grado significativo (moderado o mayor) y en el 1,7% valvulopatías significativas combinadas. El 4% de la población presentó estenosis aórtica significativa, que fue la valvulopatía significativa más frecuente, seguida por la insuficiencia mitral (2,9%) y la insuficiencia tricuspídea (2,3%). La etiología degenerativa fue la causa más frecuente de disfunción valvular aórtica y mitral, y la causa funcional la principal de insuficiencia tricuspídea significativa. Las valvulopatías significativas aumentaron significativamente con la edad, y afectaron al 23,5% de los mayores de 75 años. La estenosis mitral y la insuficiencia tricuspídea fueron más frecuentes en pacientes de sexo femenino, sin encontrarse diferencias de género en las valvulopatías aórticas y la insuficiencia mitral. Conclusiones: Las enfermedades valvulares fueron un hallazgo frecuente en nuestra población. Su prevalencia aumentó con la edad; la etiología degenerativa fue la principal causa de compromiso valvular aórtico y mitral, y la funcional de la insuficiencia tricuspídea. La estenosis mitral y la insuficiencia tricuspídea tuvieron diferencias de acuerdo al sexo. Nuestro trabajo aporta información importante y novedosa sobre la epidemiología de las valvulopatías en Argentina.
Второй язык ДНК, "Природа"
Authors: Орлов М.А.
Published: October 2021

ДНК — основа жизни. В клеточном ядре, в самом главном «узле» замысловатых путей метаболизма, в основании потока генетической информации покоится эта молекула — хранилище данных. Но только ли покоится Ограничивается ли такое крупное и очень раннее изобретение эволюции инертной функцией хранения информации Чтобы разобраться с этими вопросами, рассмотрим различные аспекты организации этой молекулы. Каждый из них может выйти на первый план при смене ролей ДНК — она может быть и матрицей для копирования, и местом хирургически точной посадки белков или сложных и динамичных взаимодействий с ними. В центре нашего внимания — свойства промоторов, на которых начинается процесс транскрипции, т.е. «переписывания» ДНК в форму РНК. Место действия — крошечный геном бактериофага Т7 и его минималистические, очень похожие и такие разные промоторы.
ПРОЯВЛЕНИЕ ПЛЕНОК ПОВЕРХНОСТНО-АКТИВНЫХ ВЕЩЕСТВ В ИЗОБРАЖЕНИИ КРУГА СНЕЛЛИУСА: ЧИСЛЕННЫЙ ЭКСПЕРИМЕНТ, "Фундаментальная и прикладная гидрофизика"
Authors: Мольков А.А.
Published: October 2021

Настоящая работа продолжает цикл работ по исследованию возможностей использования подводных изображений небосвода (круга Снеллиуса) для оценки состояния взволнованной водной поверхности, в том числе в поле приповерхностных гидрофизических процессов и в присутствии пленочных загрязнителей. На основе разработанных ранее математических моделей изображений круга Снеллиуса и его первых двух статистических моментов, а также модели спектра ветрового волнения Эльфохейли, модели тонкой пленки Ермакова и эмпирических результатов Кокса-Манка для толстой пленки продемонстрирована чувствительность структуры границы круга Снеллиуса к изменениям ветроволновой обстановки и к пленкам различных вязкоупругих характеристик. Полученные теоретические результаты подкреплены результатами анализа изображений из натурного эксперимента, когда искусственный пленочный слик пересекал область визирования, оказывая заметное влияние на структуру волнения. На основе полученных результатов сформулированы практические возможности обнаружения поверхностных загрязнителей и их различения с проявлениями на водной поверхности других процессов, например, ветровой тенью.
РЕКОНСТРУКЦИЯ ОПАСНЫХ НАГОНОВ В СЕВЕРНОМ КАСПИИ НА ОСНОВЕ ЦИФРОВЫХ МОДЕЛЕЙ РЕЛЬЕФА ДНА И ГИДРОЛОГИЧЕСКОГО МОДЕЛИРОВАНИЯ, "Наука юга России"
Authors: Яицкая Н.А. , Шевердяев И.В. , Магаева А.А. , Бригида В.С.
Published: October 2021

Представлены результаты работ по реконструкции опасных нагонов в дельте Волги и Северном Каспии с использованием инструментов гидрологического моделирования. Для расчетов разработаны высокоточные цифровые модели дельты Волги и Северного Каспия на основе топографических и гидрографических карт. Контроль осуществлялся в ручном режиме. Для учета особенностей строения русел разработан специальный алгоритм, описанный в статье. Выполнена верификация модели HEC-RAS по ряду гидрологических сценариев при разных вариантах коэффициента шероховатости. При расчетах учтено перераспределение стока Волги по рукавам, предложены оптимальные точки задания речных расходов и уровня. Для реконструкции выбор опасных нагонов в XX–XXI веках осуществлялся на основе отдельных сведений из научной литературы и по данным речных уровнемеров. Всего выделено 26 случаев, для которых выполнены расчеты. Построены карты максимального затопления для каждого случая. Определены некоторые особенности затопления дельты Волги. Помимо колебаний уровня в северной части Каспийского моря на площадь затопления существенное влияние оказывает расход в р. Волге – чем больше расход воды в реке, тем больше площадь затопления при нагонных явлениях схожей динамики. Максимальная площадь затопления характерна для нагона в 1991 г. – 17,5 тыс. км2 в условиях повышенного речного стока в период половодья, минимальная – для 1940-х и 1960-х гг. (менее 10 тыс. км2), когда выделялись нагоны с максимальным уровнем ниже 27 мБС.
РЕЗУЛЬТАТЫ ВЫЯВЛЕНИЯ УЧАСТКОВ С ПРОЯВЛЕНИЕМ НЕРАЦИОНАЛЬНОГО ПРИРОДОПОЛЬЗОВАНИЯ В БЕРЕГОВОЙ ЗОНЕ АЗОВСКОГО МОРЯ, "Наука юга России"
Authors: Хорошев О.А. , Сушко К.С. , Мисиров С.А.
Published: October 2021

По результатам азовской комплексной экспедиции 2019 г. в пределах российского сектора береговой зоны Азовского моря выявлен ряд участков с проявлением нерационального природопользования. На исследуемых отрезках побережья обнаружены 40 неизвестных, а также ранее зафиксированных различных по площади свалочных очагов твердых бытовых отходов, значительные по протяженности участки земель, распаханных в опасной близости от береговых клифов в районах с активным проявлением абразионных и оползневых процессов в пределах Республики Крым (Ленинский район), Краснодарского края (Темрюкский, Приморско-Ахтарский, Ейский, Щербиновский районы) и Ростовской области (Азовский, Неклиновский районы). Проведен анализ пространственного расположения территорий с отмеченными признаками нерационального природопользования. Также в процессе наблюдений были выявлены различные факты отрицательного антропогенного воздействия на окружающую среду: застройка в границах прибрежных защитных полос, последствия пожаров, действующие и закрытые для захоронения кладбища, подверженные воздействию опасных береговых процессов, признаки добычи полезных ископаемых в прибрежной зоне и пр.
КЛИНИКО-РЕНТГЕНОЛОГИЧЕСКАЯ ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКА ТУБЕРКУЛЕЗА ОРГАНОВ ДЫХАНИЯ У ДЕТЕЙ ИЗ ОЧАГОВ ТУБЕРКУЛЕЗНОЙ ИНФЕКЦИИ С РАЗЛИЧНЫМИ РЕЗУЛЬТАТАМИ МИКРОБИОЛОГИЧЕСКОГО ИССЛЕДОВАНИЯ МОКРОТЫ У ИСТОЧНИКА ИНФЕКЦИИ, "Вестник Центрального научно-исследовательского институ
Authors: Губкина М.Ф. , Хохлова Ю.Ю. , Петракова И.Ю. , Юхименко Н.В. , Стерликова С.С.
Published: October 2021

Цель исследования: провести сравнительную оценку характеристик туберкулезного процесса у детей с туберкулезом (ТБ) органов дыхания, проживающих в очагах туберкулезной инфекции с различными результатами микробиологического исследования мокроты у источника заболевания. Материалы и методы. В исследование включено 196 детей 3–12 лет (средний возраст 7,8 ± 0,2) с впервые выявленными локальными формами ТБ органов дыхания, имевших до заболевания контакт с больными ТБ взрослыми лицами с различными результатами микробиологического исследования мокроты. Сформировано 4 группы пациентов: 1-я группа (23 человека) – дети из контакта с источником инфекции без бактериовыделения; 2-я группа (39 человек) – дети из контакта с источником инфекции с бактериовыделением с сохраненной лекарственной чувствительностью возбудителя; 3-я группа (27 человек) – дети из контакта с источником инфекции с бактериовыделением с наличием лекарственной устойчивости, но не множественной или широкой; 4-я группа (107 человек) – дети из контакта с источником инфекции с бактериовыделением с наличием множественной или широкой лекарственной устойчивости (МЛУ/ШЛУ) возбудителя. Были изучены: структура клинических форм ТБ, фаза и распространенность туберкулезного процесса, характер клинических проявлений (наличие и выраженность симптомов интоксикации, изменений в клиническом анализе крови). Результаты. Не выявлено различий в характеристиках туберкулезного процесса у детей, имевших контакт с больными с различным спектром лекарственной устойчивости микобактерий туберкулеза (МБТ), в том числе с МЛУ МБТ.
ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТЬ ХИРУРГИЧЕСКОГО ЛЕЧЕНИЯ БОЛЬНЫХ РАСПРОСТРАНЕННЫМ ДЕСТРУКТИВНЫМ ТУБЕРКУЛЕЗОМ ЛЕГКИХ И КОМОРБИДНЫМ САХАРНЫМ ДИАБЕТОМ С ПРИМЕНЕНИЕМ ЛАЗЕРНОЙ ДЕСТРУКЦИИ ОЧАГОВ, "Вестник Центрального научно-исследовательского института туберкулеза"
Authors: Читорелидзе Г.В. , Лепеха Л.Н. , Красникова Е.В. , Багиров М.А.
Published: October 2021

Актуальность исследования обусловлена необходимостью повышения эффективности хирургического лечения больных распространенным туберкулезом (ТБ) легких с сопутствующим сахарным диабетом (СД). Цель исследования: повышение эффективности хирургического лечения больных ТБ легких и сопутствующим СД за счет применения интраоперационной лазерной деструкции очагов в оставшихся после резекции отделах легкого. Материалы и методы. Проведен анализ результатов хирургического лечения 101 больного распространенным ТБ легких с сопутствующим СД. Основную группу составили 36 пациентов, у которых после резекции легкого интраоперационно выполнялась лазерная деструкция очагов в оставшихся отделах легкого аппаратом ЛСП-30. Группу сравнения составили 65 пациентов, которым радикальные хирургические вмешательства проводились без применения лазерных методик. Из них у 30 больных проводилась оценка морфологического состояния очагов туберкулезного воспаления различной локализации. Результаты. Установлено, что при использовании интраоперационной лазерной деструкции очагов аппаратом ЛСП-30 сохраняется значительный объем функционально значимой легочной паренхимы, что подтверждается результатами спирометрии и исследования газового состава крови в послеоперационном периоде, снижается частота послеоперационных осложнений. Результаты морфологического исследования операционного материала показали, что прогрессирование и распространение специфического воспаления у больных ТБ легких и СД может происходить вследствие бронхогенной и лимфогематогенной диссеминации, что приводит к развитию ацинозных или ацинозно-лобулярных казеозных фокусов и осложняет течение ТБ. Заключение. Полученные результаты свидетельствуют о высокой эффективности хирургического лечения с применением высокоэнергетического лазера ЛСП-30 для деструкции очагов в оставшихся после резекции отделах легкого, которая составила 96,2% и была выше на 16,2% (p < 0,01) в сравнении с группой контроля.
Structural characterization of the porcine adeno‐associated virus Po1 capsid protein binding to the nuclear trafficking protein importin alpha
Authors: Hoad Mikayla , Roby Justin A. , Forwood Jade K.
Published: October 2021

Adeno‐associated viruses (AAVs) are key vectors for gene therapy; thus, many aspects of their cell transduction pathway have been revealed in detail. However, the specific mechanisms AAV virions use to enter the host nucleus remain largely unresolved. We therefore aimed to reveal the structural interactions between the AAV capsid (Cap) protein and the nuclear transport protein importin alpha (IMPα). A putative nuclear localization sequence (NLS) in the virion protein 1 capsid protein of the porcine AAV Po1 was identified. This region was complexed with IMPα and a structure solved at 2.26 Å. This is the first time that an NLS of AAV Cap complexed with IMPα has been determined structurally. Our results support the findings that AAV capsids enter the nucleus through binding the nuclear import adapter IMPα.
The transcribed ultraconserved region uc.160+ enhances processing and A‐to‐I editing of the miR‐376 cluster: hypermethylation improves glioma prognosis
Authors: Soler Marta , Davalos Veronica , Sánchez‐Castillo Anaís , Mora‐Martinez Carlos , Setién Fernando , Siqueira Edilene , Castro de Moura Manuel , Esteller Manel , Guil Sonia
Published: October 2021

Transcribed ultraconserved regions (T‐UCRs) are noncoding RNAs derived from DNA sequences that are entirely conserved across species. Their expression is altered in many tumor types, and, although a role for T‐UCRs as regulators of gene expression has been proposed, their functions remain largely unknown. Herein, we describe the epigenetic silencing of the uc.160+ T‐UCR in gliomas and mechanistically define a novel RNA–RNA regulatory network in which uc.160+ modulates the biogenesis of several members of the miR‐376 cluster. This includes the positive regulation of primary microRNA (pri‐miRNA) cleavage and an enhanced A‐to‐I editing on its mature sequence. As a consequence, the expression of uc.160+ affects the downstream, miR‐376‐regulated genes, including the transcriptional coregulators RING1 and YY1‐binding protein (RYBP) and forkhead box P2 (FOXP2). Finally, we elucidate the clinical impact of our findings, showing that hypermethylation of the uc.160+ CpG island is an independent prognostic factor associated with better overall survival in lower‐grade gliomas, highlighting the importance of T‐UCRs in cancer pathophysiology.