bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Data-Driven Machine Learning Algorithm for Predicting the Outcomes of NBA Games
Authors: Horvat Tomislav , Job Josip , Logozar Robert , Livada Časlav
Published: March 2023

We propose a new, data-driven model for the prediction of the outcomes of NBA and possibly other basketball league games by using machine learning methods. The paper starts with a strict mathematical formulation of the basketball statistical quantities and the performance indicators derived from them. The backbone of our model is the extended team efficiency index, which consists of two asymmetric parts: (i) the team efficiency index, generally based on some individual efficiency index—in our case, the NBA player efficiency index, and (ii) the comparing part, in which the observed team is rewarded for every selected feature in which it outperforms its rival. Based on the average of the past extended indices, the predicted extended indices are calculated symmetrically for both teams competing in the observed future game. The relative value of those indices defines the win function, which predicts the game outcome. The prediction model includes the concept of the optimal time window (OTW) for the training data. The training datasets were extracted from maximally four and the testing datasets from maximally two of the five consecutive observed NBA seasons (2013/2014–2017/2018). The model uses basic, derived, advanced, and league-wise basketball game elements as its features, whose preparation and extraction were briefly discussed. The proposed model was tested for several choices of the training and testing sets’ seasons, without and with OTWs. The average obtained prediction accuracy is around 66%, and the maximal obtained accuracy is around 78%. This is satisfactory and in the range of better results in the works of other authors.
Field Mixing in Curved Spacetime and Dark Matter
Authors: Capolupo Antonio , Quaranta Aniello , Serao Raoul
Published: March 2023

An extensive review of recent results concerning the quantum field theory of particle mixing in curved spacetime is presented. The rich mathematical structure of the theory for both fermions and bosons, stemming from the interplay of curved space quantization and field mixing, is discussed, and its phenomenological implications are shown. Fermionic and bosonic oscillation formulae for arbitrary globally hyperbolic spacetimes are derived and the transition probabilities are explicitly computed on some metrics of cosmological and astrophysical interest. The formulae thus obtained are characterized by a pure QFT correction to the amplitudes, which is absent in quantum mechanics, where only the phase of the oscillations is affected by the gravitational background. Their deviation from the flat space probabilities is demonstrated, with the aid of numerical analyses. The condensate structure of the flavor vacuum of mixed fermions is studied, assessing its role as a possible dark matter component in a cosmological context. It is shown that the flavor vacuum behaves as a barotropic fluid, satisfying the equation of the state of cold dark matter. New experiments on the cosmic neutrino background, as PTOLEMY, may validate these theoretical results.
Based on Improved NSGA-II Algorithm for Solving Time-Dependent Green Vehicle Routing Problem of Urban Waste Removal with the Consideration of Traffic Congestion: A Case Study in China
Authors: Gao Zhenhua , Xu Xinyu , Hu Yuhuan , Wang Hongjun , Zhou Chunliu , Zhang Hongliang
Published: March 2023

The dense population and the large amount of domestic waste generated make it difficult to determine the best route and departure time for waste removal trucks in a city. Aiming at the problems of municipal solid waste (MSW) removal and transportation not in time, high collection and transportation costs and high carbon emissions, this paper studies the vehicle routing problem of municipal solid waste removal under the influence of time-dependent travel time, traffic congestion and carbon emissions. In this paper, a dual objective model with the lowest total economic cost and the highest garbage removal efficiency is established, and a DCD-DE-NSGAII algorithm based on Dynamic Crowding Distance and Differential Evolution is designed to improve the search ability, improve the convergence speed and increase the diversity of the optimal solution set. The results show that: according to the actual situation of garbage collection and transportation, the method can scientifically plan the garbage collection and transportation route, give a reasonable garbage collection scheme and departure time, and effectively avoid traffic congestion time; Through algorithm comparison, the algorithm and model proposed in this paper can reduce collection and transportation costs, improve transportation efficiency and reduce environmental pollution.
Feline Foamy Virus Transmission in Tsushima Leopard Cats (Prionailurus bengalensis euptilurus) on Tsushima Island, Japan
Authors: AbuEed Loai , Makundi Isaac , Miyake Ariko , Kawasaki Junna , Minoura Chisa , Koshida Yushi , Nishigaki Kazuo
Published: March 2023

Tsushima leopard cats (TLC; Prionailurus bengalensis euptilurus) only inhabit Tsushima Island, Nagasaki, Japan and are critically endangered and threatened by infectious diseases. The feline foamy virus (FFV) is widely endemic in domestic cats. Therefore, its transmission from domestic cats to TLCs may threaten the TLC population. Thus, this study aimed to assess the possibility that domestic cats could transmit FFV to TLCs. Eighty-nine TLC samples were screened, and FFV was identified in seven (7.86%). To assess the FFV infection status of domestic cats, 199 domestic cats were screened; 14.07% were infected. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the FFV partial sequence from domestic cats and TLC sequences clustered in one clade, suggesting that the two populations share the same strain. The statistical data minimally supported the association between increased infection rate and sex (p = 0.28), indicating that FFV transmission is not sex dependent. In domestic cats, a significant difference was observed in FFV detection in feline immunodeficiency virus (p = 0.002) and gammaherpesvirus1 infection statuses (p = 0.0001) but not in feline leukemia virus infection status (p = 0.21). Monitoring FFV infection in domestic cats and TLC populations is highly recommended as part of TLC surveillance and management strategies.
Differences in Longevity and Temperature-Driven Extrinsic Incubation Period Correlate with Varying Dengue Risk in the Arizona–Sonora Desert Region
Authors: Ernst Kacey C. , Walker Kathleen R. , Castro-Luque A Lucia , Schmidt Chris , Joy Teresa K. , Brophy Maureen , Reyes-Castro Pablo , Díaz-Caravantes Rolando Enrique , Encinas Veronica Ortiz , Aguilera Alfonso , Gameros Mercedes , Cuevas Ruiz Rosa Elena , Hayden Mary H. , Alvarez Gerardo , Monaghan Andrew , Williamson Daniel , Arnbrister Josh , Gutiérrez Eileen Jeffrey , Carrière Yves , Riehle Michael A.
Published: March 2023

Dengue transmission is determined by a complex set of interactions between the environment, Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, dengue viruses, and humans. Emergence in new geographic areas can be unpredictable, with some regions having established mosquito populations for decades without locally acquired transmission. Key factors such as mosquito longevity, temperature-driven extrinsic incubation period (EIP), and vector–human contact can strongly influence the potential for disease transmission. To assess how these factors interact at the edge of the geographical range of dengue virus transmission, we conducted mosquito sampling in multiple urban areas located throughout the Arizona–Sonora desert region during the summer rainy seasons from 2013 to 2015. Mosquito population age structure, reflecting mosquito survivorship, was measured using a combination of parity analysis and relative gene expression of an age-related gene, SCP-1. Bloodmeal analysis was conducted on field collected blood-fed mosquitoes. Site-specific temperature was used to estimate the EIP, and this predicted EIP combined with mosquito age were combined to estimate the abundance of “potential” vectors (i.e., mosquitoes old enough to survive the EIP). Comparisons were made across cities by month and year. The dengue endemic cities Hermosillo and Ciudad Obregon, both in the state of Sonora, Mexico, had higher abundance of potential vectors than non-endemic Nogales, Sonora, Mexico. Interestingly, Tucson, Arizona consistently had a higher estimated abundance of potential vectors than dengue endemic regions of Sonora, Mexico. There were no observed city-level differences in species composition of blood meals. Combined, these data offer insights into the critical factors required for dengue transmission at the ecological edge of the mosquito’s range. However, further research is needed to integrate an understanding of how social and additional environmental factors constrain and enhance dengue transmission in emerging regions.
Leaf Curl Epidemic Risk in Chilli as a Consequence of Vector Migration Rate and Contact Rate Dynamics: A Critical Guide to Management
Authors: Roy Buddhadeb , Venu Emmadi , Kumar Sathiyaseelan , Dubey Shailja , Lakshman Dilip , Mandal Bikash , Sinha Parimal
Published: March 2023

Chilli is an important commercial crop grown in tropical and subtropical climates. The whitefly-transmitted chilli leaf curl virus (ChiLCV) is a serious threat to chilli cultivation. Vector migration rate and host–vector contact rate, the major drivers involved in the epidemic process, have been pinpointed to link management. The complete interception of migrant vectors immediately after transplantation has been noted to increase the survival time (to remain infection free) of the plants (80%) and thereby delay the epidemic process. The survival time under interception (30 days) has been noted to be nine weeks (p < 0.05), as compared to five weeks, which received a shorter period of interception (14–21 days). Non-significant differences in hazard ratios between 21- and 30-day interceptions helped optimize the cover period to 26 days. Vector feeding rate, estimated as a component of contact rate, is noted to increase until the sixth week with host density and decline subsequently due to plant succulence factor. Correspondence between the peak time of virus transmission or inoculation rate (at 8 weeks) and contact rate (at 6 weeks) suggests that host succulence is of critical importance in host–vector interactions. Infection proportion estimates in inoculated plants at different leaf stages have supported the view that virus transmission potential with plant age decreases, presumably due to modification in contact rate. The hypothesis that migrant vectors and contact rate dynamics are the primary drivers of the epidemic has been proved and translated into rules to guide management strategies.
Vaccinomics Approach for Multi-Epitope Vaccine Design against Group A Rotavirus Using VP4 and VP7 Proteins
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Ayub Aaima , Habib Sabahat , Rana Muhammad , Rehman Zaira , Zohaib Ali , Jamal Syed , Jaiswal Arun , Andrade Bruno , de Carvalho Azevedo Vasco , Faheem Muhammad , Javed Aneela
Published: March 2023

Rotavirus A is the most common cause of Acute Gastroenteritis globally among children <5 years of age. Due to a segmented genome, there is a high frequency of genetic reassortment and interspecies transmission which has resulted in the emergence of novel genotypes. There are concerns that monovalent (Rotarix: GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals, Rixensart, Belgium) and pentavalent (RotaTeq: MERCK & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA) vaccines may be less effective against non-vaccine strains, which clearly shows the demand for the design of a vaccine that is equally effective against all circulating genotypes. In the present study, a multivalent vaccine was designed from VP4 and VP7 proteins of RVA. Epitopes were screened for antigenicity, allergenicity, homology with humans and anti-inflammatory properties. The vaccine contains four B-cell, three CTL and three HTL epitopes joined via linkers and an N-terminal RGD motif adjuvant. The 3D structure was predicted and refined preceding its docking with integrin. Immune simulation displayed promising results both in Asia and worldwide. In the MD simulation, the RMSD value varied from 0.2 to 1.6 nm while the minimum integrin amino acid fluctuation (0.05–0.1 nm) was observed with its respective ligand. Codon optimization was performed with an adenovirus vector in a mammalian expression system. The population coverage analysis showed 99.0% and 98.47% in South Asia and worldwide, respectively. These computational findings show potential against all RVA genotypes; however, in-vitro/in-vivo screening is essential to devise a meticulous conclusion.
A Qualitative Study Exploring Motivators and Barriers to COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake among Adults in South Africa and Zimbabwe
Authors: Myburgh Nellie , Mulaudzi Mamakiri , Tshabalala Gugulethu , Beta Norest , Gutu Kimberley , Vermaak Stefanie , Lau Charles , Hill Catherine , Stanberry Lawrence , James Wilmot , Madhi Shabir , Makadzange Tariro , Dietrich Janan Janine
Published: March 2023

While vaccines are a well-established method of controlling the spread of infectious diseases, vaccine hesitancy jeopardizes curbing the spread of COVID-19. Through the Vaccine Information Network (VIN), this study explored barriers and motivators to COVID-19 vaccine uptake. We conducted 18 focus group discussions with male and female community members, stratified by country, age group, and—for Zimbabwe only—by HIV status. Participants’ median age across both countries was 40 years (interquartile range of 22–40), and most (65.9%) were female. We conceptualized the key themes within the World Health Organization’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) 3C (convenience, confidence, complacency) vaccine hesitancy model. Barriers to vaccine uptake—lack of convenience, low confidence, and high complacency—included inaccessibility of vaccines and vaccination sites, vaccine safety and development concerns, and disbelief in COVID-19’s existence. Motivators to vaccine uptake—convenience, confidence, and low complacency—included accessibility of vaccination sites, user-friendly registration processes, trust in governments and vaccines, fear of dying from COVID-19, and knowing someone who had died from or become infected with COVID-19. Overall, vaccine hesitancy in South Africa and Zimbabwe was influenced by inconvenience, a lack of confidence, and high complacency around COVID-19 vaccines.
An Oral Galectin Inhibitor in COVID-19—A Phase II Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sigamani Alben , Mayo Kevin H. , Miller Michelle C. , Chen-Walden Hana , Reddy Surendar , Platt David
Published: March 2023

Background: SARS-CoV-2 vaccines play an important role in reducing disease severity, hospitalization, and death, although they failed to prevent the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 variants. Therefore, an effective inhibitor of galectin-3 (Gal-3) could be used to treat and prevent the transmission of COVID-19. ProLectin-M (PL-M), a Gal-3 antagonist, was shown to interact with Gal-3 and thereby prevent cellular entry of SARS-CoV-2 in previous studies. Aim: The present study aimed to further evaluate the therapeutic effect of PL-M tablets in 34 subjects with COVID-19. Methods: The efficacy of PL-M was evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study in patients with mild to moderately severe COVID-19. Primary endpoints included changes in the absolute RT-PCR Ct values of the nucleocapsid and open reading frame (ORF) genes from baseline to days 3 and 7. The incidence of adverse events, changes in blood biochemistry, inflammatory biomarkers, and levels of antibodies against COVID-19 were also evaluated as part of the safety evaluation. Results: PL-M treatment significantly (p = 0.001) increased RT-PCR cycle counts for N and ORF genes on days 3 (Ct values 32.09 ± 2.39 and 30.69 ± 3.38, respectively) and 7 (Ct values 34.91 ± 0.39 and 34.85 ± 0.61, respectively) compared to a placebo treatment. On day 3, 14 subjects in the PL-M group had cycle counts for the N gene above the cut-off value of 29 (target cycle count 29), whereas on day 7, all subjects had cycle counts above the cut-off value. Ct values in placebo subjects were consistently less than 29, and no placebo subjects were RT-PCR-negative until day 7. Most of the symptoms disappeared completely after receiving PL-M treatment for 7 days in more patients compared to the placebo group. Conclusion: PL-M is safe and effective for clinical use in reducing viral loads and promoting rapid viral clearance in COVID-19 patients by inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells through the inhibition of Gal-3.
COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Italian Adults with Marfan Syndrome: Insights from a Secondary Analysis of a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Udugampolage Nathasha Samali , Pini Alessandro , Magon Arianna , Conte Gianluca , Callus Edward , Taurino Jacopo , Caruso Rosario
Published: March 2023

Although vaccine hesitancy has been reported in many patient groups and countries, there is a lack of data on vaccine hesitancy in patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS). MFS is a rare genetic disorder that can lead to cardiovascular, ocular, and musculoskeletal issues. Because MFS patients may face an increased risk of COVID-19 complications, vaccination is crucial for this population. This brief report aims to describe vaccine hesitancy rates in MFS patients and compare the characteristics of patients who are hesitant and those who are not to gain a better understanding of this specific population. This study analyzes previously published cross-sectional data that examined mental health, sociodemographic, and clinical factors associated with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and insomnia in MFS patients during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Lombardy, Italy. Of the 112 MFS patients who participated, 26 (23.9%) reported vaccine hesitancy. Vaccine hesitancy may be associated mainly with younger age and not be related to other patient characteristics. Therefore, this report found no differences in individual-level variables, such as sex, education, comorbidities, and mental health symptoms, between those who were hesitant and those who were not. The study findings are insightful and suggest that interventions to address vaccine hesitancy in this population may need to focus on attitudes and beliefs related to vaccination rather than targeting specific sociodemographic or clinical factors.
In Silico Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Proteins of Different Field Variants
Authors: Haseeb Muhammad , Amir Afreenish , Ikram Aamer
Published: March 2023

Coronaviruses belong to the group of RNA family of viruses that trigger diseases in birds, humans, and mammals, which can cause respiratory tract infections. The COVID-19 pandemic has badly affected every part of the world. Our study aimed to explore the genome of SARS-CoV-2, followed by in silico analysis of its proteins. Different nucleotide and protein variants of SARS-CoV-2 were retrieved from NCBI. Contigs and consensus sequences were developed to identify these variants using SnapGene. Data of the variants that significantly differed from each other was run through Predict Protein software to understand the changes produced in the protein structure. The SOPMA web server was used to predict the secondary structure of the proteins. Tertiary structure details of the selected proteins were analyzed using the web server SWISS-MODEL. Sequencing results showed numerous single nucleotide polymorphisms in the surface glycoprotein, nucleocapsid, ORF1a, and ORF1ab polyprotein while the envelope, membrane, ORF3a, ORF6, ORF7a, ORF8, and ORF10 genes had no or few SNPs. Contigs were used to identify variations in the Alpha and Delta variants of SARS-CoV-2 with the reference strain (Wuhan). Some of the secondary structures of the SARS-CoV-2 proteins were predicted by using Sopma software and were further compared with reference strains of SARS-CoV-2 (Wuhan) proteins. The tertiary structure details of only spike proteins were analyzed through the SWISS-MODEL and Ramachandran plots. Through the Swiss-model, a comparison of the tertiary structure model of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein of the Alpha and Delta variants was made with the reference strain (Wuhan). Alpha and Delta variants of the SARS-CoV-2 isolates submitted in GISAID from Pakistan with changes in structural and nonstructural proteins were compared with the reference strain, and 3D structure mapping of the spike glycoprotein and mutations in the amino acids were seen. The surprisingly increased rate of SARS-CoV-2 transmission has forced numerous countries to impose a total lockdown due to an unusual occurrence. In this research, we employed in silico computational tools to analyze the SARS-CoV-2 genomes worldwide to detect vital variations in structural proteins and dynamic changes in all SARS-CoV-2 proteins, mainly spike proteins, produced due to many mutations. Our analysis revealed substantial differences in the functionality, immunological, physicochemical, and structural variations in the SARS-CoV-2 isolates. However, the real impact of these SNPs can only be determined further by experiments. Our results can aid in vivo and in vitro experiments in the future.
COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among 42,565 Adults Amid the Spread of Omicron Variant in Beijing, China
Authors: Qin Chenyuan , Du Min , Wang Yaping , Li Mingyue , Wu Hao , Li Shugang , Liu Jue
Published: March 2023

Vaccines against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been in use for over two years, but studies that reflect real-world vaccination coverage and demographic determinants are lacking. Using a multistage stratified random cluster sampling method, we planned to directly explore vaccination coverage and the demographic determinants of different doses of COVID-19 vaccines in Beijing, especially in older populations. All 348 community health service centers in 16 districts were involved. We performed multivariable logistic regression analyses to identify demographic determinants of different coverage rates via adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% CIs. Of the 42,565 eligible participants, the total vaccination coverage rates for ≥1 dose, ≥2 doses, ≥3 doses, and 4 doses were 93.3%, 91.6%, 84.9%, and 13.0%, respectively, but decreased to 88.1%, 85.1%, 76.2%, and 3.8% in the older population. Among all participants, younger (aOR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.60–1.95), male (aOR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.06–1.23), and better-educated residents (high school and technical secondary school aOR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.43–1.74; bachelor’s degree aOR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.37–1.70) were more likely to be fully vaccinated. People who lived in rural areas (aOR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.31–1.60) and held the new rural cooperative health insurance (aOR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.20–1.57) established a higher rate of full vaccination coverage. No history of chronic disease was positively associated with a higher coverage rate (aOR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.66–1.97). Occupation also affected vaccination coverage. Demographic factors influencing the rate of vaccination with at least one or three doses were consistent with the results above. Results remained robust in a sensitivity analysis. Given the highly transmissible variants and declining antibody titers, accelerating the promotion of booster vaccination coverage, especially in high-risk groups such as the elderly, is a top priority. For all vaccine-preventable diseases, rapidly clarifying vaccine-hesitant populations, clearing barriers, and establishing a better immune barrier can effectively safeguard people’s lives and property and coordinate economic development with epidemic prevention and control.
An Ensemble of Weight of Evidence and Logistic Regression for Gully Erosion Susceptibility Mapping in the Kakia-Esamburmbur Catchment, Kenya
Authors: Nkonge Lorraine K. , Gathenya John M. , Kiptala Jeremiah K. , Cheruiyot Charles K. , Petroselli Andrea
Published: March 2023

Gully erosion is the most intensive type of water erosion and it leads to land degradation across the world. Therefore, analyzing the spatial occurrence of this phenomenon is crucial for land management. The objective of this research was to predict gully erosion susceptibility in the Kakia-Esamburmbur catchment in Narok, Kenya, which is badly affected by gully erosion. GIS and ensemble techniques using weight of evidence (WoE) and logistic regression (LR) models were used to map the susceptibility to gully erosion. First, 130 gullies were detected in the study area and portioned out 70:30 for training and validation, respectively. Nine gully erosion conditioning factors were selected as predictors. The relationships between the gully locations and the factors were identified and quantified using WoE, LR and WoE–LR ensemble models. The results show that land use/cover, distance to road, sediment transport index (STI) and topographic wetness index (TWI) are the factors that have the most influence on gully occurrence in the catchment. Additionally, the WoE–LR model performed better than the WoE and LR models, producing an AUC value of 0.88, which was higher than that of the WoE model, 0.62 and the LR model, 0.63. Therefore, the WoE–LR ensemble model is useful in gully erosion susceptibility mapping and is of help to decision makers in land-use planning.
Shoreline Temporal Variability Inferred from Satellite Images at Mar del Plata, Argentina
Authors: Billet Carolina , Bacino Guido , Alonso Guadalupe , Dragani Walter
Published: March 2023

Sandy beaches are fragile and dynamic coastal areas exposed to numerous environmental forcings. Systematic long-term data acquisition programs and exhaustive data series analyses are fundamental for a comprehensive understanding of the coastal processes. The software CoastSat was implemented to detect the shoreline position at beaches located to the south of Mar del Plata city (Buenos Aires Province, Argentina), by means of satellite images (period: 1986–2020). Tides in this area are mixed semidiurnal with a mean range of 1.74 m. The most frequent waves are characterized by significant wave heights from 0.5 to 2 m and periods of around 8 s propagating mainly from SSE. Seasonal and interannual variability and long-term trends of the shoreline position were investigated at Punta Mogotes (PM) bay, Faro Norte (FN) bay, and Ensenada Mogotes (EM). Seasonal cycles were noticed in the beach width variation series. In general, maximum accumulation was observed in summer and maximum erosion in winter. Exceptions were appreciated at southern PM bay (maximum accretion in autumn and maximum erosion in spring) and at FN bay (beach rotation on a seasonal scale). The drivers of seasonal variation are likely seasonal variations in the significant wave height and direction. PM bay showed a strong interannual variability with a clear alternating pattern between the northern and southern sectors of the bay, in an 8 ± 1.2 years period. Long-term trends showed a generalized erosion along 9 of the 12 km of the analyzed coast.
Two-Phase MPM Simulation of Surge Waves Generated by a Granular Landslide on an Erodible Slope
Authors: Zhao Kai-Li , Qiu Liu-Chao , Yuan Tang-Jin , Wang Yang , Liu Yi
Published: March 2023

A high-speed debris flow sliding into a reservoir can cause a huge disaster. Consequently, predicting landslide movement accurately and its potential interaction with water is crucial. This paper developed a computational model based on a two–layer two–phase material point method (MPM) to simulate surge waves generated by granular landslides on an erodible slope. By comparing granular landslide on a rigid and erodible slope, the effect of the slope erodibility on the process of landslide movement and the waves generated is investigated. The model takes full account of the large deformations, fluidisation and settlement of granular material in soil–water interactions. The numerical model is validated by comparing the simulated results with experimental data. The influences of internal friction angle, density, elastic modulus, Poisson ratio and dilatancy angle on wave height are also studied. The validated model was then used to investigate the surge waves generated by dry and saturated granules sliding along a rigid and erodible slope. The results show that both the erodible slope and saturated granular slide can increase the first wave crest height generated by the landslide.
Design the Water Tariff Structure: Application and Assessment of a Model to Balance Sustainability, Cost Recovery and Wise Use
Authors: Macchiaroli Maria , Dolores Luigi , De Mare Gianluigi
Published: March 2023

The sustainable management of water resources can be pursued through effective tariff policies capable of discouraging water wastefulness. Increasing Block Tariffs (IBT) represent a method of pricing the water service which consists of providing various tariff ranges, with a unit cost that increases as consumption increases. The definition of the consumption ranges and the relative tariffs must guarantee the right balance between the needs of the users and the need to protect the resource according to 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study proposes an optimization model useful for ensuring the tariff structure complies with the guidelines dictated by the Integrated Text for Water Services Tariffs (TICSI), an Italian standard that aims to rationalize and level out the fee structure at the national level. The purpose of the model is to guarantee the sustainability of the tariffs for users, protect less well-off households, and, at the same time, to ensure that the fees grow with consumption in an optimal way for the operator, in compliance with the economic constraints imposed by the national authority (ARERA). The model, which consists of a non-linear function capable of minimizing the difference between the tariffs before and after TICSI’ rules implementation, was tested through a case study. Specifically, the optimal water tariffs for each consumption range were defined for an operator in Southern Italy. The proposed model makes it possible to integrate EU guidelines relating to “polluter pays” and the protection of water resources more effectively into the national regulatory framework.
Images de la servitude fiscale à la fin du Moyen Âge
Authors: Scordia Lydwine
Published: March 2023

La mise en place de l’impôt permanent en France s’accompagne de la fréquente dénonciation de la servitude des sujets. Les quodlibets des maîtres en théologie de Paris et les grands traités politiques utilisent les uns et les autres les mêmes termes convenus. Si les formulations changent peu, le sens donné à la servitude fiscale évolue au cours du siècle étudié (fin XIIIe – fin XIVe siècle). Trois exemples principaux illustrent ces changements ; ils révèlent également les étapes de l’acceptation de l’impôt en France. La servitude fiscale signifie, pour Henri de Gand, la dénonciation du dominium du Prince sur les biens des sujets. Dans le Somnium vidarii, le fouage, impôt direct et personnel, est cause et forme de servitude. Les contenus de la servitude fiscale diffèrent, et la formulation polémique perdure. Cette insistance à rappeler la liberté des sujets est fondée pour partie sur le mythe des origines de «la nation France» : les Francs n’auraient jamais payé le tribut à l’empereur romain. C’est l’honneur du roi de gouverner des hommes libres. Cette origine prestigieuse, si utile dans un contexte extérieur, n’aide guère le roi dans l’organisation des finances du royaume.
Une carrière byzantine de Charlemagne. Échos de droit vulgaire romano-gothique au Moyen Âge
Authors: Cortese Ennio
Published: March 2023

En 754 Pépin le Bref fut sacré in regem et patritium avec ses fils. Il n’est pas croyable que le pape Étienne II ait réitéré tel quel le sacre en roi des Francs que Pépin avait déjà reçu en 751 et qui lui avait conféré un ordo indélébile. L’objet dut être différent : ou un patriciat élevé au rang royal ou tout au plus la royauté des Francs enrichie du patriciat. Le patrice par excellence et protecteur de Rome étant l’exarque, c’est à ce poste (qui était vacant) que le pape dut nommer Pépin et ses fils. Par l’unctio il traita l’exarchat en royaume et put ainsi remplacer par un rite religieux la nomination impériale. Les titres de roi (reiks gothique) et de patrice avaient déjà été accouplés au Bas-Empire et arborés par les commandants foederati ; beaucoup plus tard cela fut encore le cas des rois-patrices de Croatie. Le sacre impérial de Charlemagne a été parfois considéré (Annales Regni Francorum)

comme une promotion du patritius-exarque au rang d’empereur romain, c’est-à-dire comme l’aboutissement d’une carrière byzantine.
De iure fisci. L’état de Justinien comme modèle de l’Empire souabe dans l’oeuvre de Roland de Lucques (1191- 1217)
Authors: Conte Emanuele
Published: March 2023

La Summa trium librorum de Roland, juge et praticien de Lucques, fut composée du vivant de l’empereur Henri VI. C’est le seul ouvrage juridique de son temps qui applique les principes du droit de Justinien aux développements de l’Empire souabe. La Summa, ouvertement gibeline, fait écho à la propagande souabe ; elle précise néanmoins les limites des prérogatives et du dominium mundi de l’empereur, affirmant aussi le droit, pour le sujet, de résister à l’injustice. Relayée par un Tractatus de imperatore (c. 1194), la Summa se caractérise par un souci proprement humaniste d’archéologie juridique : les fragments du corpus ne sont pas seulement des principes de droit qu’il faut articuler et agencer, comme le faisait l’École de Bologne. Roland veut rendre vie à la construction institutionnelle de Justinien – ou plutôt : il assigne cette mission à l’empereur souabe, mettant à son service sa propre science juridique et philologique.
Introduction
Authors: Bresc Henri , Grévin Benoît
Published: March 2023

La recherche des matériaux d’étude sur la transmission des noms d’anges a été marquée par des difficultés liées aux nombreux transferts culturels dont ils ont été l’objet. La constitution d’une base de donnée expérimentale baptisée «angelika » à partir des données accumulées depuis un siècle permet de mettre en évidence les constantes, et les limites d’une transmission onomastique qui s’étend de la gnose antique jusqu’au Moyen Âge occidental (H. Bresc). Dans une approche comparatiste, une réflexion sur le rôle des anges dans la magie juive et chrétienne au Moyen Âge met en évidence des modalités de transfert culturel fondamentales pour comprendre le rôle de la magie à l’intérieur de la culture occidentale. La plus ou moins grande licéité de l’invocation des noms d’anges s’impose comme une ligne de partage entre judaïsme et christianisme, que la magie efface en partie.
Métatron à Paris
Authors: Idel Moshe
Published: March 2023

Depuis la fin de l’Antiquité, l’archange Métatron joue un rôle essentiel dans le mysticisme juif. Cet article analyse un texte relatif à l’emploi magique de Métatron au début du XIIIe siècle, à Paris ou éventuellement à Rouen. Ce texte est significatif de la diffusion des pratiques magiques dans certaines couches des sociétés juives, y compris dans l’élite rabbinique. Il décrit la tentative d’un groupe marginal ou peutêtre d’un individu appartenant à la tendance de R. Élie de Paris, et la pratique d’une magie angélique enrégimentée au service d’une réforme juridique. D’autres témoignages révèlent une intensification de l’intérêt pour la magie dans plusieurs groupes kabbalistiques à la fin du Moyen Âge. Les élites d’une religion sous pression perpétuelle auraient donc recours à la magie et aux interprétations spirituelles de cette religion afin de contrebalancer sa faiblesse à d’autres niveaux.
Les anges dans l’Ars notoria : révélation, processus visionnaire et angélologie
Authors: Véronèse Julien
Published: March 2023

Au sein du corpus de textes de magie médiévaux, l’Ars notoria, dont l’efficacité repose sur une «destinativité » exclusivement angélique, est peut-être la tradition tex tuelle qui permet le mieux de rendre compte de l’éventail des relations que les hommes et les anges peuvent entretenir les uns avec les autres. Les anges sont tout d’abord des messagers de Dieu, et, à ce titre, ils sont au coeur du processus de révélation qui fonde l’efficacité magico-théurgique de l’Ars (I). Possesseurs d’un degré de savoir supérieur à celui des hommes, ils sont aussi les agents les mieux à même, par l’intermédiaire de visions, d’illuminer l’esprit du dévot qui espère atteindre l’omniscience (II). Enfin, pour intervenir ici-bas, ils doivent être invoqués et par conséquent nommés. L’Ars notoria propose ainsi une angélologie foisonnante, dont on peut tenter, par une analyse linguistique qui reste hasardeuse, de se faire une idée de l’origine et du processus d’élaboration (III).
Privilèges et lettres des papes adressés à l’abbaye d’Anchin (fin XIe-fin XVe siècle)
Authors: Gerzaguet Jean-Pierre
Published: March 2023

Malgré de nombreuses entreprises d’édition anciennes ou récentes, le recensement des documents pontificaux demeure incomplet. En témoignent ici les 94 lettres connues sur les 223 retrouvées dans le fonds de l’abbaye d’Anchin. De plus, cette collecte particulièrement riche totalise 175 documents originaux (78%) qui, grâce à leurs mentions hors teneur, fournissent des informations tant sur l’élaboration de l’acte par la chancellerie que sur l’archivage par le destinataire. Si le contenu et la fréquence des lettres confortent les grandes lignes connues des relations entre un monastère et la papauté, leur nombre reflète la puissance de l’abbaye d’Anchin et la place tenue à un rang au moins égal à celui de l’ «antique et noble » abbaye de Saint-Vaast d’Arras.
Jalons pour de nouvelles interrogations sur l’histoire de la Sicile islamique : les sources écrites
Authors: Nef Annliese
Published: March 2023

Si M. Amari a accompli à la fin du XIXe siècle une oeuvre titanesque sur la Sicile islamique, il a paradoxalement freiné pendant de nombreuses décennies les progrès de la recherche. Il a fallu attendre les années soixante du XXe siècle pour assister à des renouvellements dus à des travaux portant sur l’Ifrîqiya et le Maghreb central ; la décennie suivante a, quant à elle, vu se creuser le divorce entre historiens et philologues et l’archéologie prendre son essor, tandis que ces dernières années ont été marquées par un regain d’intérêt pour la domination normande en Sicile. Aujourd’hui, il convient donc de proposer une nouvelle histoire de la Sicile islamique qui, grâce à la collaboration d’historiens, de philologues et d’archéologues, la replace dans son contexte régional et dans une continuité temporelle trop souvent ignorée.
La ceramica islamica in Sicilia
Authors: D'Angelo Franco
Published: March 2023

La ceramica islamica di Sicilia realizzata in età araba nel X e XI secolo e in età normanna nell’XI e XII secolo, ma sempre da maestranze arabo-musulmane, è stata classificata cinquanta anni fa da autorevoli studiosi ; meglio inquadrata poi durante lo studio dei bacini di provenienza siciliana posti nelle facciate delle chiese romaniche di Pisa e successivamente da numerosi archeologhi medievisti. Tuttavia, le novità emerse nelle più recenti indagini eseguite a Palermo, Messina e Catania non sono state pubblicate per cui, pur conoscendole, non si possono divulgare. Al momento attuale le espressioni più significative restano i catini decorati in policromia con il motivo delle pavoncelle e ricoperti d’invetriatura piombifera trasparente e i catini decorati con motivi geometrici espressi con colori di uguale spessore (forse perché spolverizzati) il cui verde si fonde e si diffonde nella vetrina piombifera opalescente. Entrambe le produzioni sono realizzate nell’isola nel X e XI secolo ma sono prodotte da maestranze di diversa estrazione culturale e provenienza geografica nord africana la cui capacità esecutiva era molto elevata anche se destinata agli strati meno abbienti della popolazione urbana e rurale.
L’édition du Memoriale de Niccolo Galgani de Sienne O.P.
Authors: Gadrat Christine
Published: March 2023

Niccolo Galgani, dominicain de Sienne (mort en 1424), a laissé un Memoriale,

riche en notations diverses et personnelles touchant à l’histoire religieuse, culturelle, sociale et économique de Sienne et de la Toscane au début du XVe siècle. L’édition de ce document est en cours.
L'Archivio Datini : de l’invention de 1870 à l’exploration d’un système d’écrits privés
Authors: Hayez Jérôme
Published: March 2023

La mise à disposition récente par la direction de l’Archivio di Stato de Prato d’instruments de travail décrivant précisément le fonds Datini incite à réexaminer ces archives privées uniques par leur ampleur, leur variété et leur complétude, de préciser leur structure, difficilement lisible à travers le classement effectué au XIXe siècle, de retracer les usages et l’histoire des écrits recueillis tout à la fois au sein d’un réseau professionnel et de l’espace social de sa figure centrale. D’abord produits par des fonctions variées, de communication, d’élaboration de l’information, de mémoire, de thésaurisation et de preuve, conservés avant tout par précaution dans les lieux de travail et les espaces plus privés de l’habitation, finalement regroupés depuis les agences périphériques dans le palais Datini, ils faisaient parfois l’objet de détournements, de reclassements et de tentatives d’indexation, mais cet instrument de mémoire polyphonique n’atteignait qu’une efficacité limitée du fait de son volume et des techniques mises en oeuvre.
L’image au lieu de la liturgie : le décor du pupitre de l’évangile de l’ambon d’Aiello dans la cathédrale de Salerne (Campanie, dernier quart du XIIe siècle) et ses principales variantes
Authors: Aventin Laurence
Published: March 2023

L’ambon d’Aiello de la cathédrale de Salerne, construit entre 1180 et 1193-1194, ne comporte pas de cycle narratif, mais propose un répertoire iconographique limité à quelques thèmes. Ainsi, le groupe sculpté formé de l’aigle et de l’homme au serpent constitue la création iconographique la plus surprenante de la production campanienne de cette période. Sa popularité et la place insigne qu’on lui réserve permettent de mesurer l’importance fondamentale attribuée la liturgie de la parole, mais aussi la mise en valeur du caractère sacré de l’écriture et de la prédication évangélique. Promis à une très vaste fortune, ce thème exaltant la puissance et la vertu salvatrice de la parole de Dieu témoigne de la vitalité de l’intention didactique et de l’importance que l’on accorde à la pastorale.
Les «images astrologiques» en français à la fin du Moyen Âge : remarques sur un commentaire de la neuvième proposition du Centiloquium
Authors: Boudet Jean-Patrice
Published: March 2023

Dans les trois derniers siècles du Moyen Âge, l’ascension du français comme langue savante se présente d’une façon distincte lorsqu’on s’intéresse aux différents champs que constituent l’astronomie-astrologie, la divination et la magie : le premier domaine l’emporte nettement sur le second et a fortiori sur le troisième, le plus suspect du point de vue normatif. Dans ce contexte, le cas, unique en son genre, d’un commentaire au verbum 9 du Centiloquium du Pseudo-Ptolémée, copié dans un manuscrit ayant appartenu à Jacques Angeli, chancelier de l’université de Montpellier de 1433 à 1455, pose des problèmes tant linguistiques que doctrinaux : linguistiques, car ce texte en langue d’oïl est accompagné d’embryons de traduction latine interlinéraire ; doctrinaux, dans la mesure où se dévoile ici la contradiction entre la prétention naturaliste des sceaux astrologiques et l’exigence d’un rituel comprenant «paroles » et «suffumigations » , destinées à attirer les bonnes grâces des anges gouverneurs des sphères célestes.
Il culto dei martiri locali Saturnino, Antioco e Gavino nella Sardegna giudicale
Authors: Coroneo Roberto
Published: March 2023

Fra l’XI e il XIV secolo, la Sardegna è divisa in quattro regni o giudicati. Nel suo territorio dovette esplicarsi una vivace attività devozionale, della quale resta traccia soprattutto nella ricostruzione o costruzione delle chiese, attuata in forme romaniche. Poche ma significative tracce di questa attività si rintracciano invece nei documenti d’archivio. Questi testimoniano soprattutto il culto per i martiri locali Saturnino (di Cagliari), Antioco (dell’antica Sulci, oggi Sant’Antioco) e Gavino (di Porto Torres). Di particolare interesse è il contesto agiografico e ideologico del culto martiriale per San Gavino di Torres, che si esplica nella produzione testuale come forse nel problematico portale della grandiosa basilica romanica a lui intitolata.
La réforme comptable de la Chambre apostolique et ses acteurs au début du XIVe siècle
Authors: Theis Valérie
Published: March 2023

Partant de quelques incohérences dans le récit qui est habituellement adopté par les historiens pour décrire la mise en place de la réforme de la comptabilité pontificale au début du pontificat de Jean XXII en 1316, cet article se propose de croiser les apports des sources comptables et le parcours des premiers responsables de la Chambre apostolique de Jean XXII, avant l’élection de ce dernier, pour tenter de mieux comprendre la forme particulière qu’a pris la comptabilité à partir de son arrivée au pouvoir. La figure et le parcours jusqu’ici un peu négligés d’un des deux premiers trésoriers de Jean XXII, Adémar Ameilh, sert de fil directeur pour montrer que la comptabilité pontificale postérieure à 1316 rompt radicalement avec les formes des comptes pontificaux antérieurs, mais s’inscrit en revanche dans l’héritage des pratiques d’enregistrement comptable existant antérieurement dans le monde méridional, au sein notamment des institutions épiscopales.
Entella : la necropoli islamica di Contrada Petraro : antropologia e paleopatologia per l’analisi storicoarcheologica di un gruppo umano
Authors: Spatafora Francesca , Di Salvo Rosaria , Schimmenti Vittoria
Published: March 2023

La scoperta della necropoli di rito islamico in Contrada Petraro, alle pendici settentrionali della Rocca d’Entella, è certamente determinante per la conoscenza della frequentazione del sito durante la dominazione musulmana. Sono state in tutto scoperte ventuno tombe monosome : si tratta di semplici fosse disposte con criteri di assoluta regolarità sia per quanto riguarda l’organizzazione dello spazio funerario che relativamente all’orientamento. I defunti sono seppelliti secondo il tipico rituale islamico, in decubito laterale destro, con gli arti distesi o flessi ed il volto rivolto a Sud/ Sud-Est. Si tratta di una vera e propria maqbara situata in prossimità di un importante accesso alla città, secondo un uso ampiamente attestato in tutto il bacino del Mediterraneo e documentato, anche ad Entella, dalla Necropoli A, situata sul pendio meridionale della Rocca. Sotto il profilo antropologico, il gruppo – composto da 13 uomini, 8 donne ed un

infans – risulta abbastanza eterogeneo ed è riconducibile a tipologie mediterranee e berbere.
Les idées de germanité et de romanité dans l’historiographie française du XIXe siècle
Authors: Joye Sylvie
Published: March 2023

Les rapports entre Germains et (Gallo)-Romains entre les IVe et VIIe siècles sont pensés, dans l’historiographie des XVIIIe et XIXe siècles, en termes de domination. Le débat porte tout d’abord au XVIIIe, sur l’éventualité de la domination d’une classe sur une autre, les conquérants Germains réduisant en servitude tout ou partie des vaincus. Au XIXe siècle, l’historiographie allemande présente les Germains comme une civilisation à part entière, qui a laissé en héritage des institutions à toute l’Europe. Les auteurs français refusent en grande partie cette interprétation, mais ils reconnaissent, en général, le choc créé par les Invasions, si ce n’est le rôle de la civilisation germanique, dans l’émergence de la féodalité. Les méthodes et certains concepts de l’historiographie allemande, en particulier dans les domaines de l’histoire du droit et de la famille, pénètrent durablement l’historiographie française, qui reconnaît la spécificité de la civilisation germanique, une civilisation au sein de laquelle la liberté aurait prévalu sur la domination.