bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flood risk vulnerability assessment using GIS and hydraulic modeling, case study of the Fez river watershed, Morocco
Authors: Essahlaoui Narjisse , El Ouali Abdelhadi , Rhazi Abdelaziz , Alitane Abdennabi , Ijlil Safae , Mohajane Meriame , Ammari Zakaria , Oumou Abdellah , Khrabcha Abdelali , El Hafyani Mohamed , Essahlaoui Ali , Aouragh My Hachem , Van Rompaey Anton
Published: January 2025

Morocco, like other countries in the world, is threatened by floods. These have become frequent in previous years and the current year (2024). Weather-related floods in the Fez river watershed constitute the natural hazard that threatens property. In this work, we adopted an approach based on the modeling of flow processes using the HEC-RAS model. The main sources of information are topographic map, geological map, hydrometeorological data, digital terrain model (DTM), land use, etc. 2D and 3D hydraulic modeling using HEC-RAS software, allowed the mapping and analysis of floodplains. The HEC-RAS hydraulic modeling tool is used to perform permanent flow simulations and the model input files are developed in GIS software using the HEC-GeoRAS extension. The results of the study further indicate that the Geographic Information System combined with hydraulic modeling are very effective tools for floodplain mapping and analysis. The resulting map is the flood risk map. This useful information can be used to plan and control future floods and will thus help in sustainable land management.
Landslide Monitoring by Radar Permanent Scattered Remote Sensing Technique in Tangier
Authors: Hadek Ali , Wahbi Miriam , Hlal Mohammed , Maatouk Mustapha , Boulaassal Hakim , Elkharki Omar , Yazidi Alaoui Otman
Published: January 2025

In northern Morocco, local authorities in Tanger commonly map landslide susceptibility to support effective land use management and urban planning. The area's complex geology leads to significant land surface displacement, resulting in instability phenomena such as landslides and block falls. This study utilizes Persistent Scatterer Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (PSinSAR) techniques with Sentinel-1 data in Interferometric Wide (IW) mode to evaluate ground deformation in Tanger from 2021 to 2023. We focused on mapping surface displacements in the radar line-of-sight direction by identifying persistent scatterers. The findings enhance the understanding and monitoring of slow deformation phenomena in the region, providing essential insights for land management and infrastructure planning.
Impact of Climate Change on Water Resources in the Wadi Guir Watershed: Adaptation Strategies for Sustainable Management
Authors: Messaoudi Badre , Kabiri Lahcen , Ait Lahssaine Ismail , El Hafyani Mohammed , Kadiri Abdelhakim , Essafraoui Badre , Albergel Jean
Published: January 2025

The Wadi Guir Watershed, located in the eastern basins of Morocco, spans approximately 4,231 km². One of the major challenges both globally and in Morocco, particularly in oasis regions such as the Guir River watershed, is ensuring water availability while preserving ecosystems in arid zones affected by climate change. This challenge is further compounded by the development of modern intensive agriculture alongside traditional oasis systems.This study aims to evaluate the impact of climate change on water resources in the Wadi Guir watershed, focusing on the most critical scenario, RCP 8.5, for the period from 2019 to 2060. A statistical downscaling model and the non-parametric Pettitt test were employed to analyze precipitation trends in the region. The results reveal a decline in precipitation under the selected scenario, coupled with an increase in temperatures. Consequently, a reduction in discharge is projected, from 0.045 Mm³ in 2019 to 0.030 Mm³ in 2060, alongside intensified evaporation.This research highlights the urgent need to develop adaptation strategies and decision-making frameworks tailored to the impacts of climate change to ensure the sustainable management of natural resources and ecosystems.
Analysis of solar photovoltaic module parks in Ukraine: Forecasting their further operation and end-of-life management
Authors: Karpash Maksym , Yavorskiy Andriy , Zhovtulia Liubomyr , Vasechko Valentyn
Published: January 2025

This article examines solar energy’s rapid growth and evolving role in Ukraine, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by the end-of-life management of photovoltaic (PV) modules. Despite only actively developing over the past decade, solar energy accounts for over 5% of Ukraine’s total electricity generation, ranking it 8th in Europe for installed PV capacity. The war in Ukraine has further underscored the importance of solar energy for the country’s energy security and resilience. However, with the majority of PV capacity installed only recently and with a finite lifespan, Ukraine will soon face significant volumes of decommissioned PV modules requiring processing, utilization, or reuse. The article highlights the urgency of developing a robust PV module recycling sector, as current practices involve landfilling most components. A comprehensive analysis of Ukraine’s PV module park, conducted as part of the EU-funded Retrieve project, represents a crucial first step towards effective PV waste management, aligning with Ukraine’s energy strategy and commitments under the Paris Agreement on climate change.
Solution for harvesting wave energy with Wells turbines and protection of the Black Sea coast
Authors: Budea Sanda , Simionescu Ștefan-Mugur , Florea George-Fabian
Published: January 2025

Harvesting the wave energy near coastline is useful to reduce romanian shoreline erosion but also to produce energy from renewable sources, useful for lighting the seafront. Two models of Wells turbines, with NACA 0010 and NACA 0021 blade profiles, were tested in the laboratory with air and water as working fluids, in two variants of operation – stand-alone rotor and with guide blades. Estimates and comparisons have been made regarding the energy that can be harvested using Wells turbines with 101 mm diameter rotors. Conclusions were drawn, such as that the Wells rotors show a better behavior in terms of energy produced when operating with a water column, with 7% better efficiency than with air. The Wells turbine with the NACA0021 blade profile performs better at air velocities above 4 m/s.
Experimental study and numerical analysis of biogas and energy production from sewage sludge
Authors: Măcinic Magdalena-Elena , Boncescu Corina , Şerban Dana Andreya , Robescu Lăcrămioara Diana
Published: January 2025

The research presented in this article refers to the possibility of obtaining biogas in the anaerobic digestion process from five wastewater treatment plants sludge from Constanta County. Correlations between the sludge flowrate, the amount of volatile substance, and the amount of biogas were done. Considering a cogeneration unit (CHP), the amount of thermal and electrical energy was determined. The results showed that the energy obtained is at least five times higher than that required by the Constanța Sud Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Comparative acoustic analysis of standard and innovative air diffusers with enhanced mixing capabilities
Authors: Joldos Titus Otniel , Danca Paul , Cernei Alexandru
Published: January 2025

This study addresses the challenge of designing a high-induction air diffuser with a complex geometry that effectively mixes and entrains more ambient air, raising concerns about potential noise increase. The research focuses on the acoustic performance of innovative 3D-printed air diffusers compared to the original air diffuser installed in the Dacia-Renault Duster vehicle. The four 3D-printed air diffusers, created using FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling), SLS (Selective Laser Sintering), DLP (Digital Light Processing), and SLA (Stereolithography), were tested to evaluate a single configuration due to concerns that the surface quality resulting from 3D printing could increase the noise produced by these diffusers. Using a professional sound level meter, acoustic measurements were conducted at the V2 (23.9 m3/h) and V3 (33.6 m3/h) flow rate settings. Results showed that the traditional air diffuser had the highest noise levels, measuring 38.2 dB at V2 and 39.6 dB at V3, which were 7.33% and 8.84% louder, respectively, than the innovative designs. Despite the DLP-printed diffuser being the quietest on V2 speed setting, the SLA-printed variant was preferred due to its superior dimensional tolerances and because the differences in noise were small.
A comparative study of classical and innovative lobbed air diffusers using temperature sensors for thermal environment/comfort in vehicle cabins
Authors: Danca Paul , Cernei Alexandru
Published: January 2025

Thermal comfort within a vehicle cabin is of utmost importance for both safety and user satisfaction. This study evaluates the impact of two air diffuser geometries—the classical and the innovative lobbed air diffusers—on the thermal environment within a car cabin. Experiments were conducted in an automobile-like enclosure within a climatic chamber, using a Dacia Duster dashboard and ventilation system. The system was manually controlled to vary airflow rates. Wireless temperature sensors were placed at strategic positions and levels (head, chest, knees) to monitor temperature variations over six measurement sessions with different ventilation configurations. Results show that both diffuser types effectively maintain a uniform temperature distribution across seating positions and levels. However, the innovative lobbed air diffusers demonstrated superior performance by maintaining slightly lower or comparable temperature, despite higher inlet air temperature. This suggests enhanced air mixing capability, leading to a more consistent and cooler environment, particularly advantageous during warmer conditions. This study highlights the importance of optimizing thermal comfort in vehicle cabins to improve passenger safety and comfort. Further research on long-term performance and energy efficiency is recommended to fully explore the benefits of innovative air diffusers.
Methodology to compute the speed of pumps that fit the hydrodynamic levels in a well field
Authors: Georgescu Sanda-Carmen , Găitănaru Ștefan-Dragoș , Iancu Iulian , Miron Călin Ioan , Georgescu Andrei-Mugur
Published: January 2025

Pumping water from well fields is challenging for any water company, due to the restrictions attached to the aquifers’ hydrogeological characterisation. The difficulty is to set the speed of each pump allowing ensuring a quasi-uniform pumping from all wells in a field, at the highest flow rate that can be extracted from each well, paying attention to avoid clogging. In this paper we propose a methodology to compute the speed of each pump in a well field, corresponding to the desired pumped flow rate range, by keeping the requested hydrodynamic level in each well. The method is exemplified for a case study in Bucharest − a small well field, for which hydrogeological data are available. The nonlinear system of equations that defines the hydraulic system operation is solved in MATLAB for the stationary flow regime attained after reaching constant hydrodynamic levels in all wells. The numerical model of the well field is finally set and run in EPANET, within a dynamic analysis (simulation over an extended period of time), where water levels in the wells adjust to the extracted flow rate, according to the hydrogeological data. Two operating scenarios are discussed.
The effect of coenzyme Q10 on the state hemostasis in the blood of old animals in high-altitude conditions
Authors: Gulbarchyn Alisherovna Asrankulova , Zhyldyz Akmatovna Makhmudova , Mahira Rysbaevna Mirzaeva , Meerim Taalaibekovna Taalaibekova , Zyinat Samidinovna Boronova , Mairambu Bektemirovna Zhorobekova
Published: January 2025

In this study, the effect of oral administration of coenzyme Q10 on the blood coagulation system parameters in old rats under low- and high-altitude conditions was investigated. It was found that oral administration of coenzyme Q10 at a dose of 30 mg/kg body weight significantly reduced blood clotting time and improved platelet aggregation parameters in old rats under low- and high-altitude conditions. In particular, a decrease in prothrombin time, prothrombin index, thrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time, and a decrease in ADP concentration in old rats were observed. Consequently, the obtained results indicate the hypocoagulant effect of coenzyme Q10 in the hemostasis system in old rats.
Insights into active travel levels at two universities. A comparative study in Ireland and Romania
Authors: Constantin Ion Alexandru , Mullan Elaine , Luca Oana , McGregor Alisha , Abdulal Nadia , Rotaru George
Published: January 2025

Levels of active travel (walking and cycling) to Southeast Technological University (SETU) and Technical University of Civil Engineering Bucharest (UTCB) are very low. A significant transition from car dependent travel to active modes of transportation for work, school and college is essential in order to meet climate action carbon reduction targets and to increase physical activity levels. Currently, the majority of students traveling to SETU and UTCB rely on private cars, which is environmentally unsustainable. First, students were surveyed about their mode of travel to university and the key barriers and enablers of walking and cycling, then, students discussed these issues in focus groups. Next, there was engagement between the students in the two universities about these results. Finally, there was discussion between students and the local authority engineers and planners in their respective cities to discuss this and plan appropriate actions. The majority of students at both universities reported that they primarily used private cars to travel to campus, citing convenience, lack of safe cycling infrastructure, and the distance from their homes as key barriers to active travel. However, many students expressed a willingness to walk or cycle if improvements were made to infrastructure, such as dedicated cycle lanes and pedestrian paths.
Spatial variation of heavy metals and pathogenic bacteria in coastal waters of Davao City and IGACOS: Assessing sources, environmental impact, and health risks
Authors: Aya-ay Adorico M. , Badong Venchie C. , Badang Maria Cleofe N. , Fernandez Valerie L. , Duarte Rachel C. , Anonuevo Loreniel E. , Baslot Maria Theresa C.
Published: January 2025

The study investigates heavy metals and pathogenic bacteria in coastal sites in Davao City and the Island Garden City of Samal, Philippines, focusing on sources, environmental impacts, and health risks. Heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Fe, Pb, Mn, Zn) were quantified spectrophotometrically, while bacteria were isolated using violet red bile glucose agar. Results showed spatial variation: Cd and Zn were high in industrial zones, Cu and Mn near river catchments, and Fe in the Turtle Sanctuary. Cd and Mn levels exceeded thresholds, indicating severe pollution. Pathogenic bacteria such as Pasteurella pneumotropica were prevalent, highlighting significant health and water quality risks.
Elimination of excreted pathogens and effluent reuse issues; national framework for designing waste stabilization ponds
Authors: Faskol Adel S.
Published: January 2025

The main objective of this research is to establish a national framework to give requirements for effective design of waste stabilization ponds WSP for treating municipal wastewater in Libya, including specific information relating to removal (Faecal coliform bacteria and Helminth eggs). An empirical approach is the method for designing waste stabilization ponds WSP in Libya, where the raw municipal wastewater in study areas contains 108 Faecal coliform bacteria FC (MPN/100 mL) and 103 Helminth eggs egg/L. This research finds that in a hot-summer Mediterranean climate in Libya with an anaerobic pond, facultative pond, and first maturation pond where the hydraulic retention time HRT is 26.11 days, it produces 0.00 FC/100 ml and 0.00 egg/L. Moreover, in a hot semi-arid climate in Libya with an anaerobic pond, facultative pond, and first maturation pond where the hydraulic retention time HRT is 16.16 days, it produces 0.00 FC/100 ml and 0.00 egg/L. On the other hand, in a subtropical desert climate in Libya with an anaerobic pond, facultative pond, and first maturation pond where the hydraulic retention time HRT is 28.03 days, it produces 0.00 FC/100 ml and 0.00 egg/L.
AI-Powered Sustainable Environmental Practices using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)
Authors: Al-Juboori Haider , Rizvi Syed Zuhaib H. , bin Roslan Muhammad S. , Liew Josephine Y.
Published: January 2025

Technological advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have the potential to lead the way in promoting sustainable environmental practices as well as support environmental sciences and biodiversity field studies and research. The research will focus on designing an innovative system architecture that integrates laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) with a robust machine learning (ML) framework, significantly advancing sustainable environmental practices, especially since LIBS offers rapid and precise multi-elemental analysis, while AI enhances data processing and predictive capabilities. As technological innovations advance, the integration of the suggested LIBS system and advanced AI will be pivotal in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainability. This paper presents LIBS analytical data used to qualitatively assess soil constituents as a case study.
Artificial intelligence in green management and sustainability: A bibliometric survey
Authors: Niftiyev Ibrahim
Published: January 2025

The intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), green management and sustainability provides a unique opportunity to address critical environmental issues with cutting-edge technologies. The purpose of this study is to examine the developments and trends in the literature using a bibliometric analysis method. The data were collected between 1991 (January 1) and 2024 (April 1) in the Scopus database. The results show that the focus of AI and sustainability research has shifted from, for example, water management to broader environmental concerns and then to new analytical tools such as deep learning and blockchain. The most prolific and collaborative researchers come from India, China and the US and publish in already established international journals. The interdisciplinary and holistic view of AI and sustainability issues in the current study is of great interest to policy makers, key players in the market economy and other parties interested in the green transformation via AI-led technologies.
Effects of ozone and GAC on the removal of acetylsalicylic acid
Authors: Oussama Khemis , Gabriel Racovițeanu , Elena Vulpașu
Published: January 2025

The presence of pharmaceutical micropollutants from different families in water has become a serious environmental and human health problem. The treatment processes used to eliminate pharmaceutical pollutants are limited, and only some areeffective in removing certain pharmaceutical substances. Our study focused on reducing the pharmaceutical substance acetylsalicylic acid intended for human consumption at various concentrations (1.6 mg/l, 0.8 mg/l, and 0.4 mg/l organic matter (TOC)). The study was developed on two treatment processes (ozonation process (O3) and adsorption process with granular actif carbon) and two different flow rates (1.25 l/min with an EBCTof 6 min, 2.5 l/min with an EBCT of 3 min) applied in a large-scale drinking water treatment pilot.

The O3/AC process obtained good results at a flow rate of 1.25 l/min (EBCT of 6 min) with total elimination at a concentration of 0.4 mg/L and 98.73% and 99.96% for higher concentrations of 1.6 mg/l and 0.8 mg/l respectively, which means that this processis capable of degrading and removing the pharmaceutical substance acetylsalicylic acid.
Does Improvement of Glycemic Control Cause Acute Charcot Foot in
Patients with Diabetes?
Authors: Svendsen Ole Lander , Jansen Rasmus Bo
Published: January 2025

Recent studies have suggested that improved
glycemic control in patients with diabetes may cause acute Charcot foot. To
conduct a narrative review of studies investigating whether improved
glycemic control in patients with diabetes causes acute Charcot
foot.

Publications found by searching PubMed, EMBASE, and
Cochrane Library as well as reference lists of identified publications were
reviewed.

Very few publications were found, primarily
consisting of case reports and case studies without control groups,
documenting instances where cases of acute Charcot foot had been preceded by
improved glycemic control. Recent large multicenter randomized
placebo-controlled clinical trials of anti-hyperglycemic agents in patients
with diabetes, where significant improvement of glycemic control occurred,
have not reported incidences of acute Charcot foot.

There is so far no solid evidence to suggest that
improvement of glycemic control in patients with diabetes causes acute
Charcot foot.
Zwischen Hippokrates und Diensteid: Amtsärztliche Begutachtungen von
(angehenden) Beamten im Spannungsfeld von Recht, Moral und
Rollenverständnis
Authors: Schröder-Bäck Peter , Brixius Kerstin
Published: January 2025

Begutachtungen im Öffentlichen Gesundheitsdienst (ÖGD) finden unter anderem in
der Einstellungs- und Dienstunfähigkeitsbegutachtung von Beamten statt. Hier
entstehen möglicherweise Werte- und Normkonflikte für begutachtende Ärzte, denn
diese müssen Entscheidungen treffen, die nicht unbedingt im Interesse der zu
begutachtenden Person liegen. Wie kann man die Begegnungen zwischen Ärzten und
zu Begutachtenden normativ rekonstruieren und deuten? Juristisch sind die
Erwartungen an begutachtenden Ärzte in der öffentlichen Verwaltung weitgehend
definiert. In der amtsärztlichen Praxis erscheinen trotzdem individuelle
normative Rollenkonflikte, es entstehen Gewissensentscheidungen, ob man sich an
rechtliche Vorgaben hält.
A Novel Fibrinolysis Resistance Capacity Assay Can Detect Fibrinolytic Phenotypes in Trauma Patients
Authors: Barrett Christopher D. , Suzuki Yuko , Moore Ernest E. , Moore Hunter B. , Maginot Elizabeth R. , White Collin M. , Siddiqui Halima , Gawargi Flobater I. , Chandler James G. , Sauaia Angela , Urano Tetsumei
Published: January 2025

Background To evaluate residual fibrinolysis resistance activity (FRA) in plasma, a detergent-modified plasma clot lysis assay time (dPCLT) was established in which α2-antiplasmin (A2AP) and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) are inactivated without impacting protease activity. We applied this novel assay to severely injured trauma patients’ plasma.

Material and Methods Tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA)-induced plasma clot lysis assays were conducted after detergents- (dPCLT) or vehicle- (sPCLT) treatment, and time to 50% clot lysis was measured (“transition midpoint”, T m). Residual FRA was then calculated as ([sPCLT T m] - [dPCLT T m]/[sPCLT T m]) x100% = Δ Tm PCLT (%). Assay results were compared to rapid thromboelastography (TEG) LY30, tPA TEG LY30, and plasma fibrinolysis biomarkers in polytrauma patients’ plasma (N=43).

Results Δ Tm PCLT(%) in normal plasma (N=5) was 63.0 ± 8.3 whereas in A2AP-depleted plasma was -19.1 ± 1.3%, Plasmin-antiplasmin (PAP) complex increased after complete lysis of sPCLT, whereas that in dPCLT was negligible in normal plasma. In trauma plasma, significant correlations between Δ Tm PCLT and active PAI-1 (r = 0.85, p<0.0001), PAP complex (r = -0.85, p<0.0001), free A2AP (r = 0.66, p<0.0001), total A2AP levels (r = 0.52, p=0.001) and tPA TEG LY30 (r = -0.85, p<0.0001) were found. dPCLT in hyperfibrinolysis patients diagnosed by tPA TEG was significantly shorter than those with low fibrinolysis [10.2 ± 6.4 minutes versus 20.2 ± 2.1 minutes, p=0.0006].

Conclusion Hyperfibrinolysis after trauma is significantly related to exhaustion of FRA, and our novel assay appears to quickly assess this state and may be a useful clinical diagnostic after additional validation.

Key Points
Structural Conformation and the Binding of Factor VIII R2159C (FVIII-Ise) Mutated in the C1 Domain to Phospholipid
Authors: Mizumachi Kuniyoshi , Takeyama Masahiro , Horiuchi Kaoru , Nogami Keiji
Published: January 2025

Background We previously identified a factor (F)VIII molecular defect associated with an R2159C mutation in the C1 domain (named “FVIII-Ise”) together with undetectable FVIII antigen (FVIII:Ag) levels measured by two-site sandwich ELISA using an anti-C2 domain alloantibody (alloAb). The patient had clinically mild hemophilia A, and his reduced FVIII:C correlated with FVIII:Ag measured by ELISA using monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with A2 and A2/B domain epitopes, suggesting that the R2159C mutation modified C2 domain antigenicity.

Aim To investigate functional and structural characteristics of the FVIII-R2159C mutant.

Methods and Results ELISAs using a previous anti-C2 domain alloAb confirmed that the antigen level of recombinant FVIII-R2159C mutant prepared in BHK cells was 56% lower relative to wild-type (WT), consistent with our earlier reports. This anti-C2 domain alloAb competitively inhibited FVIII and anti-C1 domain mAb binding, indicating the involvement of specificity for C1 and C2 epitopes. The K
m for FVIII-R2159C with FIXa or FX in the tenase complex was similar to that of FVIII-WT. Thrombin- and FXa-catalyzed cleavage reactions of FVIII-R2159C were similar to those of WT. The K
d for FVIII-R2159C binding to phospholipids was moderately greater than for FVIII-WT, however, while there were no significant differences in von Willebrand factor binding. In silico molecular dynamic simulation analyses revealed subtle differences between FVIII-WT and FVIII-R2159C.

Conclusion The FVIII-R2159C mutation was not different from FVIII-WT in interactions with FIXa, FX, and thrombin, but reduced binding potential to phospholipids and to an anti-C1/C2 domain alloAb was evident apparently due to subtle changes in conformational structure.
The Comorbidity of Lung Cancer and ILD: A Review
Authors: Uhlenbruch Mark , Polke Markus , von Eiff Damian , Koryllos Aris , Krüger Stefan
Published: January 2025

Patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) and especially with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis(IPF) suffer from reduced survival expectation and risk of exacerbations. Lung cancer is a relevant comorbidity in ILD patients and associated with impaired survival.

The most frequent ILD among patients with NSCLC (Non-small cell lung cancer) is idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), which is associated with an greater decline in lung function and a higher risk of death.

The prevalence of lung cancer in patients with ILD is up to 10% and in autopsy studies a prevalence up to 48% has been found.

There are no guidelines for patients with lung cancer and ILD. Moreover, no adequate evidence is available.

Therefore, we reviewed currently available literature to present an overview of the state of the art.

In this review we focus on staging and treatment of the comorbidity of lung cancer and ILD.
Functional reconstruction of lower eyelid using paramedian forehead flap combined with frontalis muscle and periosteum
Authors: Katayama Riku , Fujii Takako , Kanayama Chie , Sakuma Hisashi
Published: January 2025

Both cosmetic and functional aspects are important in the reconstruction of lower eyelid tissue defects. In this case report, we describe a two-stage reconstruction of a skin defect, including the orbicularis oculi muscle, after resection of a basal cell carcinoma using a paramedian forehead flap combined with the frontalis muscle and periosteum. In the first stage, the paramedian forehead flap, including the frontalis muscle and periosteum, was elevated, the periosteal flap was fixed to the outer orbital periosteum to lift the lower eyelid, and the skin flap, including the frontalis muscle, was sutured to the defect. In the second stage, the flap was divided and the frontalis muscle flap was sutured to the medial palpebral ligament. Electromyography at 1 year postoperatively confirmed neurotization of the transferred muscle, and at 6 months, voluntary contraction of the transferred muscle was observed during eyelid closure. These results suggest that a paramedian flap combined with the frontalis muscle and periosteum is a useful option for reconstructing horizontal skin defects involving the orbicularis oculi muscle.
Do Variations in Frontal Recess Anatomy Predispose to Mucocele Formation?
Authors: Varghese Lalee , Bright Rakesh R. , Gunturi Aditya V. A. , Rebekah Grace , Kurien Regi
Published: January 2025

Introduction Mucoceles are benign expansile cystic lesions commonly seen in the frontoethmoidal region.

Objective To see if the distribution of frontal air cells predisposes to mucocele formation.

Methods Retrospective review of all cases of paranasal sinus mucocele from 2011 to 2021. Data on demographics, history of surgery or trauma, clinical features, radiological findings, and outcome were collected and analyzed.

Results Of the 28 cases, 19 (67.9%) were male and 9 (32.1%), female, with a mean age of 40.75 years. Mucocele was unilateral in 26 (92.9%) patients. Twenty patients (71.43%) presented with primary mucocele. The distribution of mucocele was frontal and frontoethmoidal in 8 (28.6%) patients each, maxillary in 6 (21.4%), and ethmoid and sphenoid sinus in 3 (10.7%) patients each. Sixteen (57.1%) patients had frontal sinus involvement. At presentation, 13 (46.4%) patients had nasal symptoms, 17 (60.7%) had orbital symptoms, while 16 (57.1%) had headache. Pain (12; 70.59%) was the predominant orbital symptom, followed by proptosis and diplopia (8; 47.06%). The most common sites of bony erosions were along the frontal sinus floor (14; 50%), followed by lamina papyracea (13; 46.43%), and frontal sinus anterior wall (10; 35.71%). The agger nasi and suprabullar cells were the most common frontal cells encountered in mucoceles involving the frontal sinus, with no significant difference in frontal cell distribution between involved and uninvolved sides. The frontal cell distribution was similar in mucoceles with and without frontal sinus involvement too.

Conclusion Though frontal and frontoethmoidal mucoceles were the most encountered, the type and distribution of frontal cells did not predispose to mucocele formation.
Evaluation of the Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire in Danish
Authors: Neumann Charlotte Skov , Schmidt Jesper Hvass
Published: January 2025

Introduction The Nijmegen cochlear implant questionnaire (NCIQ) is a quantifiable self-assessment health-related quality of life (HRQoL) tool used internationally to determine quality of life (QoL) in cochlear implant (CI) users and to evaluate the implant's subjective benefits.

Objective This study aimed to validate the Danish version of the questionnaire (DA-NCIQ) with a test–retest including 60 participants (30 CI users and 30 CI candidates).

Methods The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated to evaluate the temporal stability of the participants' answers and the internal consistency of the questionnaire domains was determined using the Cronbach alpha in order to compare these results with the NCIQ's other language versions.

Results The DA-NCIQ was found to have Cronbach alpha coefficients between 0.7 and 0.91, as well as test–retest reliability with ICC values between 0.7 and 0.92. These findings were similar to the original and other language versions of this questionnaire. The Cronbach alpha coefficients varied between 0.73 and 0.89, while the ICC test–retest reliability varied between 0.64 and 0.85. Furthermore, the present study found that participants with CIs had an improved HRQoL in all subdomains, except for the advanced sound perception one, when compared to the CI candidates.

Conclusion The results supported the DA-NCIQ as a reliable instrument to measure the subjective benefits of CIs in postlingually deafened/hearing-impaired adults.
Plasmatic Levels of Cytokines and Quality of Life among Elderly Individuals with Dizziness
Authors: Moreira Gislaine da Silva , Marchiori Luciana Lozza de Moraes , Ciquinato Daiane Soares de Almeida , Marchiori Glória de Moraes , Okamura Licia Sayuri Tanaka , Branco Braulio Henrique Magnani , Poli-Frederico Regina Célia
Published: January 2025

Introduction Few studies have investigated the relationship between cytokines and dizziness in elderly individuals.

Objective To assess the levels of inflammatory biomarkers and their relationship with quality of life (QoL) among elderly individuals with dizziness.

Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study with 103 participants (90 women and 13 men) who were assessed through the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI). The plasma levels of cytokines were measured through the cytometric bead array (CBA) method. Cross-tabulations with the Chi-squared test were used to verify sample homogeneity, and parametric tests were used to analyze the data.

Results Out of the total sample of 103 individuals, dizziness was reported by 40 women and 5 men. A difference between the groups with and without dizziness was observed regarding the levels of interleukin 4 (IL-4; p = 0.011): the group without dizziness presented a higher mean level (2.1 ± 2.8 pg/mL) when compared to the group that presented dizziness (1.0 ± 1.7 pg/mL). Another difference was found between the DHI classifications and the plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α;) p = 0.015): the groups without any losses in QoL presented lower TNF-α levels (1.4 pg/mL) compared to the group that presented moderate QoL loss (6.3 pg/mL).

Conclusion Dizziness affects the functional, physical and emotional dimensions of QoL and plays a role in the decrease in the levels of IL-4 and in the presence of fullness and tinnitus. Higher VAS scores are related to dizziness in the elderly. Moreover, the increased levels of TNF-α were associated to light-to-moderate losses in QoL among elderly patients with dizziness.
The Good and Bad of Regionalizing Colon Cancer Care
Authors: Schaefer Sara L. , Harbaugh Calista M.
Published: January 2025

Hospitals in the United States continue to merge into expanding hospital networks. As the U.S. health care landscape rapidly evolves toward regionalized hospital networks, there is a critical opportunity for these networks to fulfill their clinical potential toward coordination of care, particularly for cancer patients. While regionalization aims broadly to improve care by distributing services optimally, centralization remains the dominant approach. This article explores regionalization and centralization specific to colon cancer care. We examine the benefits and drawbacks of centralization of colon cancer surgery as a strategy to enhance patient outcomes and access to care. Additional methods for optimizing regional care delivery also exist. In this article, we also present additional strategies for improving regional care delivery and clinical integration for colon cancer patients.
Electron structure of intermetallic compounds Holn3 and TmGa3
Authors: Grechnev G. E. , Svechkarev I. V. , Fomenko Yu. V. , Hjelm A.
Published: January 2025

The spin-polarized electron structure of heavy rare-earth metal compounds HoIn3 and TmGa3 is calculated for the first time from first principles. The topology of the Fermi surface of these compounds is determined. The distribution of magnetic moments over atoms of f- and sp- metals is established.
Photodissociation dynamics of H2S+ via A2A1 (0, 11, 0) state
Authors: Tan Yuxin , Wang Yaling , Luo Chang , Yuan Daofu , Zhou Xiaoguo , Wang Xingan , Yang Xueming
Published: January 2025

Time-sliced velocity map ion imaging (VMI) experiments were performed to investigate the photodissociation of H2S+X2B1, via the excitation to the A2A1 (0, 11, 0) state. Experimental images of the S+ (4Su) products were recorded near 349.60 nm for the K = 1 band, and near 344.30 nm for the K = 2 band. The derived product total kinetic energy release (TKER) spectra exhibit partially rotationally resolved structures corresponding to the H2(X1Σg+) co-products. The observed product state and angular distributions both exhibit sensitive dependence on the photolysis wavelength at near 349.60 nm and 344.30 nm. These phenomena indicate the underlying rich dynamic details and the role of the rotational excitation of H2S+.
The simplest minimal subtraction for massive scalar field theory
Authors: Leite Marcelo M.
Published: January 2025

The simplest minimal subtraction method for massive λϕ4 scalar field theory is presented. We utilize the one-particle irreducible vertex parts framework to deal only with the primitive divergent ones that can be renormalized multiplicatively. We give a unified description for spacetime metric tensor with either Minkowski or Euclidean signature. The partial-p operation in the remaining diagrams of the two-point vertex part eliminates its overlapping divergences. We show how the parametric dissociation transform effectively removes the external momentum dependence of the coefficient of the squared bare mass after performing the partial-p operation in the two-point vertex part diagrams. The resemblance of this method with a minimal subtraction scheme in the massless theory is pointed out. We derive the Callan-Symanzik equations using minimal subtraction arguments and discuss the scaling limit in the ultraviolet region. We apply the method to determine critical exponents for an O(N) internal symmetry at least up to two-loop order with a flat Euclidean metric and find perfect agreement with all previous results in the literature.
Phase-gradient force-based optical array sorter
Authors: Wu Yixuan , Liu Yu , Tao Shaohua
Published: January 2025

Microparticle sorting is crucial for applications in biomedicine, environmental monitoring, and biochip technology. However, traditional optical sorting methods often rely on external equipment, such as microfluidic devices. In this Letter, we proposed a phase-gradient force-based optical array sorting (POAS) scheme, which achieves the accurate transporting and sorting of the particles by regulating the phase-gradient force based on the physical characteristics of the particles. The method combines the function of particle transporting and sorting, eliminating the need for external auxiliary equipment. Based on the POAS scheme, we used the complex amplitude beam shaping algorithms to design a 1 × 2 array sorting beam with the controllable phase-gradient forces. The array sorting beam was used to experimentally sort two kinds of particles with different sizes, and the particles are first transported and then precisely sorted at the designated sorting nodes. All the parameters of the sorting beam were adjustable, which greatly enhances the flexibility and scalability of the optical sorting technology. This study provides an alternative scheme for the high-throughput particle sorting, which can be easily integrated into the optical sorting chips for applications in medical detection and drug delivery.
Excited electronic states of Na2 and K2: The potential for long-lived “reservoir” states leading to collision induced population inversions
Authors: Farias Romeu João Gabriel , Gole James L. , Dixon David A.
Published: January 2025

Potential energy curves (PECs) for the spin-free (ΛS) and spin–orbit (Ω) states associated with the four lowest-lying dissociation channels of Na2 and K2 were calculated at the SA-CASSCF/SO-CASPT2/aug-cc-pwCVQZ-DK level. The PECs of Na2 were consistent with the experimental data and with the FS-CCSD (2,0) calculations, reproducing the double-well and the “shelf” character for some of the potentials of the excited states. For K2, the PECs behaved in a similar way and the spectroscopic parameters for the ground and the excited states are in good agreement with the available experimental values. The dissociation energy of K2 was predicted to be De = 4454 cm−1, within an agreement of 5 cm−1 with the experiments. For Na2, De = 5789 cm−1 compared to the experimental value of 6022 cm−1. The inclusion of spin–orbit coupling effects resulted in avoided crossings, which affect the PECs. Spin–orbit changes the predicted curves for some excited Ω states arising from ΛS states that overlap each other, affecting their associated vibrational frequencies and bond distances. The current studies of the low-lying states in K2 reveal a similar structure to those of Na2, which suggests the accessibility of long-lived energy storing reservoir states and possible population inversions in K2 following prior experimental work on the reaction of halogen atoms with Na3 to produce excited states of Na2.
Optimizing oil–water separation using fractal surfaces
Authors: Gavazzoni Cristina , Lazzari Davi , da Silva Ramos Iara Patrícia , Brito Carolina
Published: January 2025

Oil has become a prevalent global pollutant, stimulating the research to improve the techniques to separate oil from water. Materials with special wetting properties—primarily those that repel water while attracting oil—have been proposed as suitable candidates for this task. However, one limitation in developing efficient substrates is the limited available volume for oil absorption. In this study, we investigate the efficacy of disordered fractal materials in addressing this challenge, leveraging their unique wetting properties. Using a combination of a continuous model and Monte Carlo simulations, we characterize the hydrophobicity and oleophilicity of substrates created through ballistic deposition (BD). Our results demonstrate that these materials exhibit high contact angles for water, confirming their hydrophobic nature while allowing significant oil penetration, indicative of oleophilic behavior. The available free volume within the substrates varies from 60% to 90% of the total volume of the substrate depending on some parameters of the BD. By combining their water and oil wetting properties with a high availability of volume, the fractal substrates analyzed in this work achieve an efficiency in separating oil from water of nearly 98%, which is significantly higher compared to micro-pillared surfaces made from the same material but lacking a fractal design.
A NiAl-layered double hydroxides memristor with artificial synapse function and its Boolean logic applications
Authors: Ai Ruibo , Luo Wang , Liu Xiaojun , Zhang Tao , Sang Jiqun , Zhang Yaolin
Published: January 2025

In the era of artificial intelligence, there has been a rise in novel computing methods due to the increased demand for rapid and effective data processing. It is of great significance to develop memristor devices capable of emulating the computational neural network of the brain, especially in the realm of artificial intelligence applications. In this work, a memristor based on NiAl-layered double hydroxides is presented with excellent electrical performance, including analog resistive conversion characteristics and the effect of multi-level conductivity modulation. In addition, the device's conductance can be continuously adjusted by varying pulse width, interval, and amplitude. The successful replication of synaptic features has been achieved. In order to implement the functions of “NOT,” “AND,” and “OR,” a logic gate is constructed using two synaptic devices. The confirmation of the potential use of synaptic devices in brain-like computing was demonstrated. In addition, it demonstrates the potential of these devices in supporting computing models beyond von Neumann architecture.
Layer-specific control of inhibition by NDNF interneurons
Authors: Naumann Laura Bella , Hertäg Loreen , Müller Jennifer , Letzkus Johannes J. , Sprekeler Henning
Published: January 2025

Neuronal processing of external sensory input is shaped by internally generated top–down information. In the neocortex, top–down projections primarily target layer 1, which contains NDNF (neuron-derived neurotrophic factor)-expressing interneurons and the dendrites of pyramidal cells. Here, we investigate the hypothesis that NDNF interneurons shape cortical computations in an unconventional, layer-specific way, by exerting presynaptic inhibition on synapses in layer 1 while leaving synapses in deeper layers unaffected. We first confirm experimentally that in the auditory cortex, synapses from somatostatin-expressing (SOM) onto NDNF neurons are indeed modulated by ambient Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Shifting to a computational model, we then show that this mechanism introduces a distinct mutual inhibition motif between NDNF interneurons and the synaptic outputs of SOM interneurons. This motif can control inhibition in a layer-specific way and introduces competition between NDNF and SOM interneurons for dendritic inhibition onto pyramidal cells on different timescales. NDNF interneurons can thereby control cortical information flow by redistributing dendritic inhibition from fast to slow timescales and by gating different sources of dendritic inhibition.
Retrospective SARS-CoV-2 human antibody development trajectories are largely sparse and permissive
Authors: Kirby Monica B. , Petersen Brian M. , Faris Jonathan G. , Kells Siobhan P. , Sprenger Kayla G. , Whitehead Timothy A.
Published: January 2025

Immunological interventions, like vaccinations, are enabled by the predictive control of humoral responses to novel antigens. While the development trajectories for many broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) have been measured, it is less established how human subtype-specific antibodies develop from their precursors. In this work, we evaluated the retrospective development trajectories for eight anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike human antibodies (Abs). To mimic the immunological process of BCR selection during affinity maturation in germinal centers (GCs), we performed deep mutational scanning on anti-S1 molecular Fabs using yeast display coupled to fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Focusing only on changes in affinity upon mutation, we found that human Ab development pathways have few mutations which impart changes in monovalent binding dissociation constants and that these mutations can occur in nearly any order. Maturation pathways of two bnAbs showed that while they are only slightly less permissible than subtype-specific Abs, more development steps on average are needed to reach the same level of affinity. Many of the subtype-specific Abs had inherent affinity for antigen, and these results were robust against different potential inferred precursor sequences. To evaluate the effect of differential affinity for precursors on GC outcomes, we adapted a coarse-grained affinity maturation model. This model showed that antibody precursors with minimal affinity advantages rapidly outcompete competitors to become the dominant clonotype.