bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identified Opportunities in Utilization of the European Research Reactor Fleet as a Part of the TOURR Project
Authors: Pungerčič Anže , Cirillo Roberta , Walkiewicz Joanna , Novák Evžen , Gajewski Jacek , Szentmiklósi Laszlo , Van Puyvelde Lisanne , Starflinger Jörg , Cano Daniel , Pohlner Georg , Mikolajczak Renata , Pavel Gabriel , Snoj Luka
Published: November 2023

This paper discusses the current status of the European research reactor (RR) fleet and identified opportunities for its utilization. The data for this analysis was collected through a specific questionnaire from which a database of the European RR fleet was created. The questionnaire was designed to assess the degree of exploitation of different RR applications and to identify gaps and opportunities for future utilization. The results indicate that the European RR fleet is older compared to the world average, with no new research reactors built in Europe since 1992. The majority of RRs reported low levels of exploitation across all applications, and a desire to expand utilization was expressed by 78% of respondents. Lack of manpower, finance, and customers were identified as the main obstacles preventing expansion, while the need for more nuclear engineers was identified as a clear opportunity to attract people to the field. The findings of this study emphasize the need for actions to be taken to combat future needs and to improve the utilization of the European RR fleet. Overall, this study provides valuable insights for policymakers, industry professionals, and researchers working in the field of nuclear energy.
Investigation of organic scintillators for neutron-gamma noise measurements in a zero power reactor
Authors: Darby F.B. , Pakari O. , Hua M.Y. , Lamirand V. , Clarke S.D. , Pautz A. , Pozzi S.A.
Published: November 2023

Noise measurements in light water reactor systems aid in generating validation data for integral point kinetic parameter predictions and monitoring parameters for reactor safety and safeguards. The CROCUS zero-power reactor has been used to produce both data types to date, using thermal neutron detectors to observe neutron noise and inorganic scintillators to observe gamma noise. Also, the cross-correlation of gamma and neutron noise has been investigated at CROCUS with separate gamma and neutron detectors. Organic scintillators can be used to cross-correlate gamma and neutron noise with only one detector type, within a single detector volume, and provide nanosecond timing resolution for time-correlated measurements. Dual-particle measurements require particle-type discrimination and are hence possible with organic scintillators since such detectors have the property of presenting statistically different pulse shapes for gamma rays and fast neutrons. The fine timing precision increases the signal-to-noise ratio relative to moderated thermal neutron detectors for correlated measurements and the dual-particle sensitivity allows for multiple modalities of estimating the prompt neutron decay constant. In this work, we present data obtained with 5.08 cm-length by 5.08 cm-diameter trans-stilbene cylindrical detectors set in the water reflector of CROCUS. Preliminary results estimate the prompt neutron decay constant to be (155 ±5) s−1 at delayed critical.
Qualification of the Industrialized Libera MONACO 3 Digital Acquisition System dedicated to Fission/Ion Chamber Measurements in Research Reactors
Authors: Barbot Loic , De Izarra Gregoire , Destouches Christophe , Bisiach Danilo , Cargnelutti Manuel , Zorzut Sebastjan , Škabar Matjaž , Bardorfer Aleš , Makovac Aurora , Trnovec Jure , Paglovec Peter
Published: November 2023

The CEA Sensor, Dosimetry and Instrumentation Laboratory (LDCI) has been working since 2011 on an integrated acquisition system called MONACO, ’Multichannel Online Neutron Acquisition in Campbell mOde’, for fission chamber measurements. Taking into account the feedback acquired up to the CEA TRL7 version, the LDCI Lab and the Instrumentation Technologies company (Solkan – Slovenia) initiated in 2020 a two years collaboration agreement to build the Libera MONACO 3 industrialized version required for reactor use and mass production. After a final qualification performed in the Slovenian TRIGA Mark II reactor in March 2023, the system will be available on the nuclear instrumentation market by the end of 2023.
Simultaneous inter-calibration of 160 MiMi neutron detectors
Authors: Vitullo Fanny , Lamirand Vincent , Godat Daniel , Pautz Andreas
Published: November 2023

The 160 MiMi neutron detectors of SAFFRON, a 3D full-core mapping system developed at EPFL for the CROCUS zero-power reactor, have been simultaneously inter-calibrated in preparation for their in-core installation. An experimental setup was built to distribute up to 180 MiMi detectors radially at 15 cm around the Pu-Be neutron source of the CARROUSEL facility. An efficient inter-calibration methodology is presented: first, the azimuthal shape of the relative source strength is characterized by rotating 18 MiMi detectors distributed every 20º around the PuBe, followed by the simultaneous determination of the relative sensitivity of 160 MiMi detectors, distributed all around the Pu-Be source.
Experimental analysis of natural convection in a differentially heated cavity
Authors: Carlesi Tommaso , Laboureur Delphine , Planquart Philippe , Pacio Julio , Van Tichelen Katrien , Mégret Patrice
Published: November 2023

Turbulent heat fluxes (THFs) estimation is of paramount importance in the determination of heat transfer in fluids. Numerical models for low Prandtl number fluids are still unreliable and their experimental evaluation is a challenging task since it requires simultaneous measurement of fast velocity and temperature fluctuations. In nuclear applications, a better understanding of THFs in liquid metals could lead to more precise predictions of the primary coolant temperature for the evaluation of nominal operation (forced convection regime) and accidental conditions (mixed and/or natural convection regime). The first part of this work focuses on the selection of the measurement techniques suitable for water, GaInSn and LBE and the thorough literature review required. Tests in different setups led to the choice of sheathed type K thermocouples and fiber Bragg gratings for temperature measurements and Ultrasound Doppler Velocimetry and Hot Wire Anemometry for velocity measurements. The comparison carried out among the different techniques underlines advantages and limitations of each of them. Calibration of each technique is performed and cross-effects of temperature and velocity are evaluated. Uncertainty analyses are also carried out. To conclude, first results obtained in a differentially heated cavity made of stainless steel 316L with an edge of 60 mm are presented. DNS numerical simulations are performed to know the ranges of the quantities to be measured and to have results available for comparison with experiments.
A portable aerosol monitor with a novel linear deconvolution algorithm for fast and accurate detection of alpha emitters
Authors: Ferrante Vero Luca F. , Manessi Giacomo P. , Marzo Giuseppe A. , Zorloni Gabriele
Published: November 2023

Radiochemistry laboratories and nuclear power plants are required to install aerosol monitors for real-time detection of alpha-particle emitters in air. However, common radioactive aerosol monitors are unsuited for rapid emergency response, since they are neither portable nor easily deployable. Moreover, their spectrometric capabilities are usually limited, showing particularly poor performance of radioisotope identification, which makes it difficult to correctly assess the alpha-emitter concentration in air. We developed a rugged and compact radioactive aerosol monitor, fully battery powered, which can be quickly deployed in field, as well as used as a fixed station for routine monitoring. The monitor is equipped with a silicon detector, and the acquired alpha-particle spectra are analyzed employing a patented linear deconvolution algorithm. A prototype of this device was tested to evaluate its performance of radioisotope identification by using artificial alpha-emitters. Initial encouraging tests provide evidence for alpha-emitters identification with multi-line mixed-isotope alpha sources, and in energy-degraded low-countingstatistics conditions.
Development of a new method for the detection of illicit materials based on the Active Photon Interrogation Method and photo-neutron spectrometry
Authors: Besnard-Vauterin C. , Blideanu V. , Rapp B.
Published: November 2023

The detection of illicit materials is a critical task in the field of homeland security, as international trade has contributed to the increase of smuggling activities. Nonintrusive on-site inspections are crucial in this context, but the current active interrogation methods have limitations. Neutron-induced reactions have been used, but the measurement of gamma spectra is complex due to background noise. Active photon interrogation methods have also been overlooked but they are currently limited to actinides detection using photo-fission reactions. This work presents a novel method for the detection of illicit materials based on active photon interrogation and photo-neutron spectrometry. This approach extends the application of active photon interrogation by including the detection of conventional explosives, narcotics, and chemical weapons based on the use photo-nuclear reactions to determine the content of light elements such as nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon. Monte-Carlo codes are the main tool used to simulate this process for the application need. However, because of the lack in the present literature of measured neutron spectra, the experimental validation of the simulations is not straight forward. At present, benchmarking the Monte-Carlo codes seems to be the sole option for testing their ability to accurately simulate photo-neutron production and spectra for the nuclear reactions of interest. Simultaneously, we designed a test bench based on a linear accelerator to generate photons, induce photonuclear reactions, and acquire photo-neutron spectra. This study on the fundamental aspects of photo-neutron production lays the groundwork for a promising new detection method for illicit materials.
On the use of free code tools to simulate the propagation of radiation following dirty bomb explosions in sensible contexts
Authors: Quaranta Riccardo , Ludovici Gian Marco , Manenti Guglielmo , Gaudio Pasqualino , Malizia Andrea
Published: November 2023

The current geopolitical situation suggests an increasing possibility of radiological dispersal device attacks on sensitive targets. Consequently, understanding the transport of radiation over great distances in a short time can help first responders and decision makers in effectively managing emergencies. By utilizing open-source computational codes, intentional releases of radioactive material and their transmission from person to person can be simulated to provide first responders and decision makers with a rapid tool to facilitate their work. In this study, the HotSpot code was employed to simulate two releases of Cs-137 resulting from the detonation of a dirty bomb in a major city and near an aqueduct waterworks. Additionally, the STEM code was used to simulate radiation propagation from the initially affected individuals, drawing comparisons to the vectors of viral infections. This approach allowed to compare the outcomes of a scenario involving many individuals in an urban setting with another scenario having fewer individuals but posing the risk of contaminating critical infrastructure. The results showed that both scenarios had similar relatively mild health consequences for the population, despite their considerable differences and variations in the analyzed timelines. However, both scenarios present numerous challenges in emergency management. In the first case, the incident generates widespread panic and media frenzy. In the second case, the dissemination of radiation and potential public unawareness must be taken into account. Addressing these considerations needs the involvement of multiple stakeholders, including police, firefighters, healthcare professionals, journalists, politicians, and others, in emergency management efforts.
Flying DEMon, a newborn startup for environmental monitoring
Authors: Altomare C. , Di Venere L. , Giordano F. , Loporchio S. , Mastroserio A. , Serini D.
Published: November 2023

Gamma-ray spectroscopy and dosimetry are complementary techniques used to locate and identify radioactive sources containing gamma-ray-emitting radioisotopes. Gamma-ray spectroscopy is extensively studied for various applications across multiple fields, including homeland security, environmental radioactivity monitoring, tackling illegal trade of radioiso-topes, and medical sciences.

Introducing our newly established startup, Flying DEMon s.r.l., comprised of young researchers, academic professors, and backed by university support. Our venture aims to advance project development, leveraging the grant awarded through the E-TEC2 contest initiated by ENAC. The team will showcase their comprehensive work plan, highlighting the project’s competitiveness and self-sustaining potential.

The objective of our startup is to harness cutting-edge technologies in the field of gamma spectroscopy and dosimetry, adaptable for deployment via Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This innovation holds significant promise for environmental monitoring, facilitating tasks such as pinpointing widespread radioactive sources or identifying concealed and hard-to-reach nuclear waste. Additionally, this advancement holds potential for applications in military, security, and industrial oversight.

Our research focus primarily revolves around real-time and rapid gamma-ray analysis in open-field environments. Our group not only supports the core project objectives but also enables its applicability in diverse and non-traditional sectors, such as Agritech.
A comparative study on the influence of the type of acid used for 55Fe and 63Ni determination in steel samples through Liquid Scintillation Counting
Authors: Cozzella Maria Letizia , Gandolfo Giada , La Notte Giovanna , Augusto Marzo Giuseppe
Published: November 2023

In decommissioning of nuclear facilities the presence of activated steel requires the determination, along with other radionuclides, of 55Fe and 63Ni. These can be considered as hard-to-measure-radionuclides because of their low energy beta particles or X radiation emitted. Furthermore, those radionuclides are usually mixed with a relevant fraction of non-radioactive Fe and Ni. This implies that, in those cases involving very low radioactive samples close to background activity level, a significant mass of steel sample must be physically and chemically treated and analyzed to achieve the Minimum Detectable activity Concentration (MDC) required by the Authority for clearance purposes. Due to colour quenching the acquisition time is particularly long. Minimizing the colour effect is therefore important for laboratories that must perform many determinations in a reasonable time, achieving the MDC in accordance with the Authority requests. For this reason, the choice of solvent can be an important information to save analyses time. The intensity of the colour quenching is, in fact, strongly dependent on the type of acid used to solubilize the sample before the mixing with the liquid scintillation cocktail. Some types of acid can even increase the phenomenon while others can drastically reduce such an effect. The aim of this work is to offer, through a correlation study between sample concentration in the LSC vial and type of solvent used in dilution, a reliable method for quantifying 63Ni and 55Fe in steel samples with very low activity, close to the background level.
Nanoreinforced concrete composites for possible nuclear waste confinement a preliminary study
Authors: Mancini Maria Rita , Gattia Daniele Mirabile , Girardi Fabio , Ferri Donatella , Marzo Giuseppe A. , Masci Domenica
Published: November 2023

Cementitious materials are the most abundant building materials even nowadays. Similarly, in the nuclear industry, concrete is the most used material for the confinement of radioactive waste, it has favorable properties, both chemical and physical, making it a desirable matrix for the encapsulation of radioactive and toxic wastes. Cemented wastes are preferred for the storage of a large varieties of fission products, such as low and intermediate level radioactive waste e.g., β—emitter 90Sr. Anyway, because of the intrinsic fragility of ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) a lot of efforts have been spent to enhance his mechanical resistance.

Graphene Oxide (GO) represent an opportunity to overcome this problem. In fact, there is much evidence that GO can influence the toughness and the strength of the cement composites by regulating the morphology of the cement hydration products.

90Sr, the main strontium isotope in radioactive waste, is a by-product of the fission of uranium and plutonium in nuclear reactors. In this study we investigate the effects of strontium on mechanical properties of cement (OPC) and GO-reinforced cement. Different samples have been prepared with fixed concentration of GO. It has been observed that small quantities of GO, significantly [1] increases the compression strength of cement composites. The addition of Sr (65.0, 67.6 and 70.2 ppm) resulted in an increase of the compressive strength of 6.78%, 3.02% and 0.70% for those samples respectively, in comparison to OPC.

Compression strength in samples of OPC with GO remained quite constant even in presence of Sr.
System-level testing and qualification of environmental sensors for nuclear decommissioning
Authors: Urena-Acuna A. , Favrichon J. , Cantrel E. , Robin P.A. , Balier A. , Maraine T. , Saigné F. , Boch J.
Published: November 2023

In this work, we show the first steps of a systemlevel qualification methodology for a series of Commercial off-the Shelf (COTS) environment sensors subjected to Total Ionizing Dose (TID). We demonstrate a correlation between the degradation of electrical signals such as consumption current and functional failures in sensor measurements. The sensors were irradiated using high-energy X-rays and 60Co under different biasing cases in order to determine their worst-case scenario.
Prompt gamma-ray spectroscopy in conjunction with the Monte Carlo Library Least Squares approach: Applications to range verification in proton therapy
Authors: Skjerdal Kyrre , Kögler Toni , Lionheart William , Ytre-Hauge Kristian Smeland , Meric Ilker
Published: November 2023

Prompt Gamma-ray Spectroscopy (PGS) in conjunction with the Monte Carlo Library Least Squares (MCLLS) approach was investigated for the purposes of range monitoring in proton therapy through Monte Carlo simulations. Prompt gamma-rays are produced during treatment and can be correlated to the range of the proton beam in the tissue. In contrast to established approaches, MCLLS does not rely on the identification of specific photopeaks. Instead it treats each individual constituent as a library spectrum and calculates coefficients for each spectrum, and therefore takes both the photopeaks and the Compton continuum into account. It can thus be applied to organic scintillators traditionally not used for energy spectroscopy due to their low Z number and density. Preliminary results demonstrate that the proposed approach returns a strong linear correlation between the range of the primary proton beam and the calculated library coefficients, depending on the composition of libraries. This can be exploited for range monitoring.
Radiation monitoring with plant-based biotas and an automated micronucleus scoring approach
Authors: d’Errico F. , Barco F. , Butini T. , Cascone M.G. , Ciolini R. , Quattrocchi M. , Rosellini E. , Hulber T. , Torres Novaes J.A. , Xavier M.N. , de Souza Lalic S.
Published: November 2023

In this work, we investigated the response of the stem cells from the roots of Allium Cepa (meristems) to ionizing and non-ionizing radiations of different qualities. Allium cepa (Onion) is a well-established in-vivo standard model, widely used in cytogenetic studies for different environmental pollutants. Endpoints, such as chromosomal aberrations (CAs), micronuclei (MNs), and disturbance in the mitotic cycle of root meristematic cells of onion are frequently used to determine the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of different environmental pollutants. Traditionally, these studies have been carried out to assess chemical toxicity, while the toxicity of ionizing radiation has been studied less extensively. We also examined the repurposing of a previously described optical microscope system originally designed for automated non-fluorescent micronucleus (MN) scoring in binucleated peripheral lymphocytes. The microscope system relies on hardware and software layers in parallel in order to optimize the performance in automated MN scoring.
Active Collimator for the BGO Anti-Compton Shield of the HPGe Clover Detector
Authors: Das Biswajit , Khan Chowdhury N.R. , Saha S. , Laskar Md.R.S. , Babra F.S. , Malik V. , Kundu A. , Dey P. , Jadav S.K. , Naidu B.S. , Vazhappilly A.T. , Sihotra S. , Palit R.
Published: November 2023

An active collimator has been designed to replace the heavy metal collimator of the BGO anti-Compton shield to improve the performance of the hybrid Indian National Gamma Array (INGA) at TIFR, Mumbai. The active collimators of the 24 clover detectors, along with the BGO anti-Compton shields and 18 LaBr3(Ce) detectors, can act as a γ-ray multiplicity filter. This configuration will be beneficial for studying weak band structures decaying by high γ-ray multiplicity events. In addition, the energy deposited in all the detectors can be added to get the sum energy for certain measurements aiming to use the hybrid array for calorimetric application. We have characterized an active collimator coupled with one of the anti-Compton shields and an HPGe clover detector with various radioactive sources. The peak-to-total ratio for the active collimator configuration is similar to the standard design with the heavy metal configuration with the 60Co source. Additionally, we have evaluated the Compton cross-talk between the clover HPGe detector and the anti-Compton shield/active collimator. The total multiplicity distribution for a cascade of eleven γ-rays with an energy range of 702000 keV has been obtained through GEANT4 simulation. The simulation results indicate the possibility of conducting a meaningful study of decay chains with a multiplicity of twelve.
Characterization and use of Stilbene scintillator for neutron metrology and spectrometry from 100 keV to 22 MeV
Authors: Quevauvillers Diane , Ottaviani Laurent , Petit Michael , Reynard-Carette Christelle
Published: November 2023

Stilbene scintillators have now the capability to extend the neutron energy measurement from 100 keV to 1 MeV. To be used as spectrometers, scintillators have to be characterized in entire energy range covered. For the photon characterization, usual calibration source determined the calibration and the resolution function. To do the photon matrix, MCNP PTRAC simulations were done between 59 keV up to 7 MeV. Using MCNP PTRAC allows the calculation of the photon response matrix from the tracking detail of the electron energy deposition in the crystal, including the effect of the Aluminum protection around. Resolution and sensibility obtained from gamma sources are applied later to the calculated photon matrix.

For neutron characterization, Time-Of-Flight measurements on white neutron spectra were realized. However, the fluence reference on these spectra begins at 1 MeV. So, the shape of the response function was measured using stilbene scintillators on 100 keV1 MeV decade. After, the monoenergetic neutron reference of AMANDE facility was used to give neutron fluence normalization below 1 MeV. This method could characterize these scintillators for neutron energy from 100 keV up to 22 MeV.
Resource Constrained Electronics and Signal Processing for UAV Radiation Sensors
Authors: Chierici Andrea , Ciolini Riccardo , Malizia Andrea , d’Errico Francesco
Published: November 2023

This paper details the development of an inexpensive, power-efficient, and lightweight radiation detection system specifically designed for deployment on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The system addresses the need for swift, remote radiation detection capabilities during radiological and nuclear emergencies, a demand emphasized by events such as the Fukushima accident in 2011. The design is based on readily accessible components, which lessens reliance on costly, specialized hardware like FieldProgrammable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) and ApplicationSpecific Integrated Circuits (ASICs). The proposed system comprises two types of detectors: inorganic scintillators, specifically CsI:tl and GAGG:ce, paired with Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPMs) for gamma-ray detection, and solid-state detectors provided with a 6Li converter for thermal neutron detection. These detectors operate independently, increasing redundancy and system reliability. The system’s performance, evaluated through extensive testing, has shown significant improvements in linearity and noise characteristics over previous iterations. Beyond its primary function in emergency response, the system could find applicability in diverse fields such as environmental radiation monitoring, geological surveys, industrial inspections, and scientific research.
Optoelectronics for neutron detectors based on superheated emulsions
Authors: Chierici Andrea , d’Errico Francesco
Published: November 2023

This paper presents the design, assembly, and performance investigation of an optoelectronic readout system specifically designed to enhance the real-time readout capabilities of Superheated Drop Detectors (SDDs). SDDs as fast neutron detectors have been widely used in different areas such as homeland security, radiation protection, and personal dosimetry. In homeland security, SDDs showed the potential of detecting prompt fission neutrons from special nuclear materials in radiation portal monitor systems, possibly positioning them as a valuable alternative to He-3 detectors. In radiation protection and personal dosimetry, downsized SDDs may be employed to assess the level of exposure of workers in nuclear energy production facilities or as a tool to perform photoneutron contamination studies of medical and research accelerators. The proposed readout system utilizes lightemitting diodes to illuminate the detectors, while photodiodes are employed to record the integral value of scattered light resulting from bubbles’ formation, a consequence of neutron interaction. To validate the behavior of the system, comprehensive field testing was conducted after assembling and integrating it with custom-made 3D printed structures tailored for different SDD geometry, and the reader was utilized to examine the optical and detection characteristics of different SDD compositions under various ionizing radiation conditions. The potential to actively read out SDDs in real-time represents a significant advancement for this radiation detection technology, particularly in fields such as radiation protection and industrial applications, and it provides valuable insights for future enhancements in the field of neutron radiation detection.
Education, Training and Research at Khalifa University in Support of the United Arab Emirates Nuclear Power Program
Authors: Foulon Francois , Addad Yacine , Al Ameri Saeed , Raj Prasoon , Al Kaabi Ahmed , Al Fantazi Akram
Published: November 2023

In 2009 United Arab Emirates (UAE) has engaged in an ambitious nuclear power program with the construction of four 1400 MWe pressurized water reactor units at the Barakah site. Fourteen years later, three units are in commercial operation, and the fourth one is in the final steps of commissioning. The four units will produce up to 5600 megawatts of electricity, supplying approximately 25% of the UAE’s electricity requirements.

To ensure in such a short period of time the building of the nuclear capabilities and support to the program, Khalifa University has been, since 2010, a key contributor to education and training activities as well as the development of R&D capabilities in the field of nuclear technology.

This paper provides an overview of Khalifa University’s activities implemented within the Nuclear Engineering Department, the Gulf Nuclear Energy Infrastructure Institute and the Emirates Nuclear Technology Center (ENTC). This joint Center, which embarks the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation and the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation, is a hub that addresses the research requirements of the nuclear stakeholders for the delivery of safe and efficient nuclear energy as well as the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies in the UAE. The paper briefly describes the current research projects implemented at the ENTC and gives reference related recent publications.
Implementation of FORMIDABLE: A generalized differential optical design library with NURBS capabilities
Authors: Volatier Jean-Baptiste , Beaussier Stephane J. , Druart Guillaume , Jougla Paul , Keller Fanny
Published: November 2023

In this article we describe the implementation of Freeform Optics Raytracer with Manufacturable Imaging Design cApaBiLitiEs (FORMIDABLE): an optical design library capable of simulating optical systems by ray-tracing. Optical performance can be quantified and optimised using third-party optimisation algorithms. Compared to available commercial optical design software and similarly to fast accurate NURBS optimization (FANO), our code can simulate and optimise Non-uniform rational B-Spline (NURBS). It also implements generalized differential capabilities that allows faster convergence compared to state-of-the-art. The implementation of FORMIDABLE and its innovative capabilities are described and illustrated with a representative case-study. The source code is available to eligible third-parties under the ECSL licence.
Reha nach Kreuzbandruptur: Rückkehrbereitschaft in den Sport evaluieren
Authors: Beckmann Alexander
Published: November 2023

Physiotherapeuten sollten vor der Rückkehr zum Sport auch die psychologische Bereitschaft Verletzter beurteilen. Der ACL-RSI-Fragebogen ist hierfür ein nützliches Tool.
Lösungsorientierte Beratung in der Rehabilitation nach Sportverletzungen
Authors: Göldi Birgit , Weidig Thorsten
Published: November 2023

In der Rehabilitation nach Sportverletzungen wird in den meisten Fällen therapeutisch auf funktionelle Aspekte der Wiederherstellung fokussiert. Dabei wird leider oft außer Acht gelassen, welch großen Anteil die Psyche am Heilungsverlauf hat und daran, ob verletzte Sportlerinnen und Sportler wieder in den aktiven Sport zurückkehren.
Bedeutung der Neuroplastizitätin der Rehabilitation nach VKB-Ruptur
Authors: Giesche Florian , Gokeler Alli , Banzer Winfried
Published: November 2023

Ein Grund für die hohe Rate von Wiederverletzungen nach einer Ruptur des vorderen Kreuzbandes sind vermutlich auch neuroplastische Anpassungen. Mit geeigneten Übungen kann es gelingen, die afferente und efferente Neuroplastizität positiv zu beeinflussen.
Imaging of Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities (ARIA)
Authors: Urbach Horst , Linn Jennifer , Hattingen Elke , Fiebach Jochen
Published: November 2023

Patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) can now be treated with monoclonal antibodies aiming at clearing amyloid plaques from the brain parenchyma. Weeks after initiation of this drug therapy, patients may develop so-called amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) on MRI. ARIA comprise vasogenic edema and leptomeningeal effusions (ARIA-E) as well as microbleeds and superficial hemosiderosis (ARIA-H). The prevalence is drug- and dose-dependent (up to 40 % of patients), the apolipoprotein E4 variant and concomitant cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) increase the risk. With regard to MRI characteristics, ARIA strongly resembles the so-called inflammatory subtype of CAA (CAA-ri). While patients with CAA-ri are typically detected due to symptoms such as headaches, lethargy, confusion, and rarely epileptic seizures, around 20 % of ARIA patients show symptoms. Management of ARIA is not yet clearly established. In asymptomatic patients, discontinuation of the drug might be sufficient.

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Antithrombotic Prophylaxis with Rivaroxaban in Patients with Prehospital COVID-19: A Meta-analysis of Two Placebo-Controlled Trials
Authors: Hsia Judith , Spyropoulos Alex C. , Piazza Gregory , Weng Stephen , Dunne Michael W. , Lipardi Concetta , Barnathan Elliot S. , Bonaca Marc P.
Published: November 2023

Background We conducted a prespecified meta-analysis of two randomized, placebo-controlled trials of rivaroxaban 10 mg daily in prehospital patients with acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Individually, the trials had limited power to detect a treatment effect due to recruitment stopping ahead of plan.

Material and Methods The statistical analysis plan for the meta-analysis was finalized before unblinding of PREVENT-HD, the larger of the two trials. Pooled risk ratios and pooled risk differences along with the two-sided 95% confidence intervals were calculated using random-effect models.

Results Rivaroxaban did not reduce the occurrence of either the primary prespecified endpoint, a composite of symptomatic arterial and venous thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, acute limb ischemia, all-cause hospitalization, and all-cause mortality (risk difference: 0.0044; 95% confidence interval: −0.0263, 0.0175; p = 0.69 for pooled risk difference) or the secondary endpoint of all-cause hospitalization (p = 0.76). Although thrombotic events were infrequent, pooled analysis did reveal that rivaroxaban reduced arterial and venous thrombotic events (placebo 6 events, rivaroxaban 0 events; pooled risk difference: −0.0068; 95% confidence interval: −0.0132, −0.0006; p = 0.03). In the pooled studies, only one major bleeding event was observed in a rivaroxaban-allocated patient with no critical site or fatal bleeding events.

Conclusion Although this meta-analysis does not support antithrombotic prophylaxis with rivaroxaban in a broad prehospital population with acute COVID-19, the prevention of arterial and venous thrombotic events among rivaroxaban-allocated patients is consistent with the known thromboprophylactic effect of the drug in medically ill patients.
Genetics and Genomics of Chronic Pancreatitis with a Focus on Disease Biology and Molecular Pathogenesis
Authors: Khan Erum , Chakrabarty Soura , Shariff Sanobar , Bardhan Mainak
Published: November 2023

Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term fibroinflammatory condition of the pancreas with varying incidences across countries. The recent increase in its occurrence implies the involvement of genetic, hereditary, and unconventional risk factors. However, there is a lack of updated literature on recent advances in genetic polymorphisms of chronic pancreatitis. Therefore, this review aims to present recent findings on the genetic implications of chronic pancreatitis based on individual gene mechanisms and to discuss epigenetics and epistasis involved in the disease. Four mechanisms have been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic pancreatitis, including premature activation of proteases, endoplasmic reticulum stress, ductal pathway dysfunction, and inflammatory pathway dysfunction. These mechanisms involve genes such as PRSS1, PRSS2, SPINK, CEL, PNLIP, PNLIPRP2, CFTR, CaSR, CLDN2, Alpha 1 antitrypsin, and GGT1. Studying genetic polymorphisms on the basis of altered genes and their products may aid clinicians in identifying predispositions in patients with and without common risk factors. Further research may also identify associations between genetic predispositions and disease staging or prognosis, leading to personalized treatment protocols and precision medicine.
Severe Hypernatremia as Presentation of Netherton Syndrome
Authors: Di Nora A. , Consentino M.C. , Messina G. , Timpanaro T. , Smilari P. , Pavone P.
Published: November 2023

Netherton syndrome is a rare, multisystem, autosomal recessive genodermatosis characterized by a triad of manifestations: congenital ichthyosis, immune dysregulation, and scalp anomalies. We report the case of a 1-month-old male infant evaluated for failure to thrive and feeding difficulties. At birth, the infant was admitted to intensive care for severe hypernatremia (natremia 186 mg/dL). Upon entering the ward, the general conditions were poor. He presented with diffuse erythrodermia. A dermatological evaluation showed evidence of “invaginated trichuriasis,” a typical sign of Netherton syndrome. Netherton syndrome is caused by a genetic mutation causing loss of function of the SPINK5 gene it encodes for the LEKTI protein, normally expressed in epithelia. Loss of LEKTI induces severe skin barrier defect. The history of the disease is characterized by serious potential complications in the first months of life, such as the risk of hypernatremic dehydration induced by high skin permeability, recurrent and/or severe infections, and growth retardation.
The Epigenetic Regulation of Quiescent in Stem Cells
Authors: Radak Mehran , Fallahi Hossein
Published: November 2023

This review article discusses the epigenetic regulation of quiescent stem cells. Quiescent stem cells are a rare population of stem cells that remain in a state of cell cycle arrest until activated to proliferate and differentiate. The molecular signature of quiescent stem cells is characterized by unique epigenetic modifications, including histone modifications and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation. These modifications play critical roles in regulating stem cell behavior, including maintenance of quiescence, proliferation, and differentiation. The article specifically focuses on the role of histone modifications and DNA methylation in quiescent stem cells, and how these modifications can be dynamically regulated by environmental cues. The future perspectives of quiescent stem cell research are also discussed, including their potential for tissue repair and regeneration, their role in aging and age-related diseases, and their implications for cancer research. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the epigenetic regulation of quiescent stem cells and highlights the potential of this research for the development of new therapies in regenerative medicine, aging research, and cancer biology.
Changes in the relationship between Index of Concentration at the Extremes and U.S. urban greenspace: a longitudinal analysis from 2001–2019
Authors: Kitch J. C. , Nguyen T. T. , Nguyen Q. C. , Hswen Y.
Published: November 2023

Urban greenspace is associated with a wide variety of human health benefits, from improved mental health to reduced violent crime and infant birth outcomes. This study investigates long-term trends in the distribution of greenspace across census tracts in the 260 U.S. cities with populations greater than 100,000 residents based on economic privilege and deprivation. Satellite-acquired Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) images were used as a measure of greenspace, and the Index of Concentration at the Extremes (ICE) was used as a measure spatial social polarizations of deprived and priveliged populations. From 2001 to 2019, the most privileged, highest ICE quintile census tracts had both the highest mean NDVI and experienced a significantly greater increase in greenspace than the least privileged tracts, indicating that the disparity in greenspace access is widening. Public greenspace initiatives need to focus on programs that are more equitable across the spectrum of economic strata to reduce urban health disparities and address concerns of environmental justice.
Health assessment for low-voltage electromagnetic coils based on fusion of creep degradation mechanism and transformed MD
Authors: Yue Sun , Kai Wang , Aidong Xu , Bo Zhang
Published: November 2023

Low-voltage electromagnetic coils play ever-increasing roles in safety-critical systems, like electromechanical actuators in more electric aircraft and tractors in zero emission vehicles. Identifying insulation degradation prior to the formation of turn-to-turn short can effectively avoid accidental shutdown and enable predictive maintenance for these systems. High-frequency electrical response analysis is currently a promising technique for electromagnetic coil insulation health assessment. However, the correlation between high-frequency electrical response parameters (HFERP) and actual insulation degradation status (AIDS) is still not clear, which brings challenges in insulation health assessment and remaining useful life prediction. Therefore, in this paper, a fusion method based on creep degradation mechanism and transformed mahalanobis distance (MD) for insulation health assessment is proposed. First, correlation analysis between the coil HFERP and the AIDS is performed from coil insulation coating creep degradation point of view. Second, a coil on-line monitoring parameter (OLMP) for monitoring insulation degradation status on-site is constructed based on transformed MD. A correlation model between OLMP and AIDS is consequently built to assist in determining OLMP failure threshold for coil insulation health assessment. Coil accelerated testing shows that the fusion method can be used to assess insulation status prior to the formation of harmful shorts, enabling condition-based maintenance for components or systems that incorporate electromagnetic coils.
Sequential neural network model for the identification of magnetorheological damper parameters
Authors: Delijani Yaser Mostafavi , Cheng Shaohong , Gherib Faouzi
Published: November 2023

Magnetorheological (MR) dampers exhibit a complex nonlinear hysteresis which makes the modeling of their behavior with parametric or non-parametric models to be challenging. In case of parametric models, the generalization of the parameters identified for a particular excitation is difficult and requires high computation costs. On the other hand, non-parametric models are considered as black-box type with no association to physical phenomena. The objective of this study is to propose a new identification model combining the merits of a parametric model and neural network paradigm. The proposed model is a parametric type which exploits an algebraic model with a hyperbolic tangent hysteresis, while a series multilayer-perceptron (MLP) neural networks are used to identify the model parameters under different excitation conditions. This approach not only preserves the physical meanings of the model parameters but also prompts generalization to common excitation conditions. The data for training the MLP neural networks were generated from a test program on a RD-8041-1 MR damper covering a wide range of input conditions. Results show that the proposed sequential neural network model not only increases the accuracy of the predicted MR damper force but also exhibits higher robustness and better consistency under different excitation conditions than a conventional algebraic model.
Bioactivity and characterization of Wollastonite-Li-silicate glass
Authors: Aldawsari Sarah , Eldera Samah S , El-Bassyouni Gehan T , Hamzawy Esmat M A
Published: November 2023

Glasses were prepared from nominal wollastonite-lithium silicate in the ratios of 87.5/12.5, 75/25, 50/50, 25/75, and glasses respectively. However, the glass of 25/75 ratio run through devitrification into lithium silicate and little quartz whereas, the other three ratios formed transparent glasses. The thermal behavior of glasses shows a decrease in the main exothermic temperature; which goes along with an increase in the lithium silicate content. Sintering of such glasses at the crystallization temperature given by differential thermal analysis (at 607 °C + 705 °C and at 661 °C) or at one step at 1000 °C, indicates the formation of three phases of pseudowollastonite [Ca3(Si3O9)], wollastonite (CaSiO3), and lithium silicate (Li2SiO3). The results of the in-vitro test by means of soaking in SBF for two weeks tracked by scanning the sample's surface and measuring the calcium and phosphorous ions using induced coupled plasma (ICP) in the SBF, exhibited that samples had improved talent to accelerate the mineralization of calcium phosphate and that the ratio of Ca/P declined from 2.55 to 1.86 upon increment of the Li2O ratio. The X-ray analysis shows the formation of hydroxyapatite on the sample’s surfaces. The biocompatibility and thermal properties of the premeditated glass ceramics secure exceptional properties and can be used to impress different biomedical applications.
Modelling and optimization of bovine serum albumin adsorption on calcium bentonite using box-behnken experimental design method
Authors: Duranoğlu Dilek , Kumcu Yün Maya
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to investigate and optimize the process parameters for bovine serum albumin (BSA) adsorption onto calcium bentonite (CaB) using the Box-Behnken experimental design method. Calcium bentonite was characterized using FT-IR, SEM, XRD, zeta potential measurements, and Boehm titration methods. The BSA adsorption capacity of calcium bentonite was modelled with respect to pH (2.8, 4.8, and 6.8), temperature (25 °C, 32.5 °C, and 40 °C), and initial protein concentration (0.1–1.2 mg ml−1) using the Box-Behnken experimental design method. The Design Expert 13.0 software was used to optimize the process conditions and obtain three-dimensional response surface graphs. A regression model, which gives the relationship between the process parameters and BSA adsorption capacity, was obtained using Design Expert software. The developed model showed that the most effective parameter on adsorption was the initial protein concentration followed by pH and temperature. The maximum adsorption capacity was obtained about 171 mg/g under optimal conditions (pH 4.8, 40 °C, and 1 mg ml−1 of initial BSA concentration). BSA adsorption onto CaB fit the pseudo-second order kinetic model. This study showed that process parameters for BSA adsorption can be effectively investigated and optimized using the Box-Behnken experimental design method with a fewer number of experiments.
A significantly enhanced magnetic moment due to an electric dipole moment
Authors: Fang Zhening , Jiang Jian-Hua , Fang Haiping
Published: November 2023

We demonstrate via first-principle calculations based on the density functional theory that the magnetic moment of a helium atom under a given magnetic field has a positive correlation with the electric dipole moment when an external electric field is applied to the system. Our calculation shows that the enhancement of the magnetic moment is significant due to the reduction of the triplet-singlet splitting. We argue that this finding can be generalized to organic molecules, especially to macromolecules where the structure induced an electric dipole moment which may give rise to significantly enhanced responses to the external magnetic field. These results suggest that considerable magnetic responses prevail, particularly in bio-molecules without an inversion center.