bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stacked multi-wedge acoustic black holes for low-frequency attenuation of flexible beams
Authors: Käfer Max , Dohnal Fadi
Published: February 2024

Machines and other driving components like compressors or fans usually generate vibrations which frequently lead to acoustic noise. Flexible structures equipped with acoustic black holes minimise acoustic radiation by confining structural vibrations locally. One main restriction of its usage in the broad engineering field is its limited effectiveness at low frequencies. Recent investigations shifted the frequency range of attenuation successfully down to 1500 Hz. Moving the existing designs towards an even lower frequency demands a large structure. However, in general, sufficient space is often not available in machines and facilities. We propose a new design that enables a geometrically compact and simultaneously broadband vibration attenuation in the low-frequency below to 100 Hz: stacked wedges. The proposed design is calculated and optimised numerically by combining CAD and finite element calculations. The influence of geometrical parameters on the effectiveness of vibration attenuation is analysed with the help of transfer functions and dispersion curves. Successful designs of multi-stacked wedges at different lengths confirm their effectiveness at low frequency.

Graphical abstract
Systematische Analyse der Abdriftmechanismen von Menschen als Beitrag zur Minimierung des Hochwasserrisikos – Konzept und erste Tests
Authors: Buchinger Matthias , Scheuer Sabrina , Habersack Helmut
Published: February 2024

Trotz der erfolgreichen Bestrebungen des Hochwasserschutzes und des Hochwasserrisikomanagements bleibt für die Bürger:innen und auch für die Einsatzkräfte im Hochwasserfall ein Gefährdungspotenzial bestehen. Dieses verbleibende Hochwasserrisiko ist darin begründet, dass aus technischer Sicht aber auch aufgrund verschiedener Rahmenbedingungen (bauliche Grenzen, Raumverfügbarkeit, Ökologie) ein vollständiger Hochwasserschutz nicht gewährleistet werden kann. Ziel der vorliegenden Versuche ist es, die Abdriftgefährdung von Personen bei Hochwasser unter möglichst realen Bedingungen, bei definierten Wasserständen und Fließgeschwindigkeiten mit Menschen im Wasserbaulabor der Universität für Bodenkultur nachzubilden. Bei den Versuchen wird sowohl der Untergrund als auch das Schuhwerk mitbetrachtet. Ein Sicherheitskonzept gewährleistet, dass die Versuche unter strengen Sicherheitsbedingungen umgesetzt wurden, um die Risiken für die getesteten Personen zu minimieren. Neben einer genauen Auswertung der gemessenen hydraulischen Bedingungen und der wirkenden Kräfte werden weiters der Zeitpunkt der Abdrift, der physische Zustand der Person zu diesem Zeitpunkt und die psychische Verfassung mittels Selbsteinschätzung der Person erfasst. Das Konzept und erste Testergebnisse werden in diesem Artikel dargestellt.
A colorimetric immunoassay for the detection of human vascular endothelial growth factor 165 (VEGF165) based on anti-VEGF-iron oxide nanoparticle conjugation
Authors: Ceylan Hülya Kuduğ , Kırbay Fatma Öztürk , Yazgan İdris , Elibol Murat
Published: February 2024

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an indispensable element in many physiological processes, while alterations in its level in the circulating system are signs of pathology-associated diseases. Therefore, its precise and selective detection is critical for clinical applications to monitor the progression of the pathology. In this study, an optical immunoassay biosensor was developed as a model study for detecting recombinant VEGF165. The VEGF165 sample was purified from recombinant Kluyveromyces lactis GG799 yeast cells. Indirect ELISA was used during the detection, wherein iron oxide nanoparticles (FeNPs) were utilized to obtain optical signals. The FeNPs were synthesized in the presence of lactose p-amino benzoic acid (LpAB). VEGF165 antibody was conjugated to the LpAB-FeNPs through EDC/NHS chemistry to convert the iron oxide nanoparticles into VEGF165 specific probes. The specificity of the prepared system was tested in the presence of potential serum-based interferents (i.e., glucose, urea, insulin, C-reactive protein, and serum amyloid A), and validation studies were performed in a simulated serum sample. The proposed immunoassay showed a wide detection range (0.5 to 100 ng/mL) with a detection limit of 0.29 ng/mL. These results show that the developed assay could offer a sensitive, simple, specific, reliable, and high-throughput detection platform that can be used in the clinical diagnostics of VEGF.

Graphical Abstract
Distant recurrence in the cerebellar dentate nucleus through the dentato-rubro-thalamo-cortical pathway in supratentorial glioma cases
Authors: Kanamori Masayuki , Morishita Yohei , Shimoda Yoshiteru , Yamamori Eiko , Sato Shiho , Osada Yoshinari , Osawa Shin-Ichiro , Shibahara Ichiyo , Saito Ryuta , Sonoda Yukihiko , Kumabe Toshihiro , Endo Hidenori
Published: February 2024

Background

Distant recurrence can occur by infiltration along white matter tracts or dissemination through the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This study aimed to clarify the clinical features and mechanisms of recurrence in the dentate nucleus (DN) in patients with supratentorial gliomas. Based on the review of our patients, we verified the hypothesis that distant DN recurrence from a supratentorial lesion occurs through the dentato-rubro-thalamo-cortical (DRTC) pathway.

Methods

A total of 380 patients with supratentorial astrocytoma, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-mutant (astrocytoma), oligodendroglioma, IDH mutant and 1p/19q-codeleted (oligodendroglioma), glioblastoma, IDH-wild type (GB), and thalamic diffuse midline glioma, H3 K27-altered (DMG), who underwent tumor resection at our department from 2009 to 2022 were included in this study. Recurrence patterns were reviewed. Additionally, clinical features and magnetic resonance imaging findings before treatment, at the appearance of an abnormal signal, and at further progression due to delayed diagnosis or after salvage treatment of cases with recurrence in the DN were reviewed.

Results

Of the 380 patients, 8 (2.1%) had first recurrence in the DN, 3 were asymptomatic when abnormal signals appeared, and 5 were diagnosed within one month after the onset of symptoms. Recurrence in the DN developed in 8 (7.4%) of 108 cases of astrocytoma, GB, or DMG at the frontal lobe or thalamus, whereas no other histological types or sites showed recurrence in the DN. At the time of the appearance of abnormal signals, a diffuse lesion developed at the hilus of the DN. The patterns of further progression showed that the lesions extended to the superior cerebellar peduncle, tectum, tegmentum, red nucleus, thalamus, and internal capsule along the DRTC pathway.

Conclusion

Distant recurrence along the DRTC pathway is not rare in astrocytomas, GB, or DMG at the frontal lobe or thalamus. Recurrence in the DN developed as a result of the infiltration of tumor cells through the DRTC pathway, not dissemination through the CSF.
Repair of monolithic zirconia restorations with different direct resin composites: effect on the fatigue bonding and mechanical performance
Authors: Soares Pablo Machado , da Rosa Lucas Saldanha , Pilecco Rafaela Oliveira , Dal Piva Amanda Maria de Oliveira , Tribst João Paulo Mendes , Werner Arie , Valandro Luiz Felipe , Pereira Gabriel Kalil Rocha , Kleverlaan Cornelis Johannes , Rippe Marilia Pivetta
Published: February 2024

Objective

The study aims to evaluate the shear bond and flexural strength fatigue behavior of yttrium-stabilized zirconia (4YSZ) repaired using different resin composites.

Materials and methods

Cylindric specimens of 4YSZ were obtained for the bond strength (Ø = 6 mm, 1.5 mm of thickness) and biaxial flexural strength (Ø = 15 mm, 1 mm of thickness) fatigue tests and divided into 3 groups according to the repair resin composite: EVO (nanohybrid), BULK (bulk-fill), and FLOW (flowable). The zirconia surface was air-abraded with alumina particles, a 10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate (10-MDP) primer was applied, and the resin composite was build-up over the zirconia. Fatigue shear bond strength and flexural fatigue strength tests were performed (n = 15). One-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests were carried out for both outcomes, besides scanning electron microscopy and finite element analysis.

Results

The repair material affected the fatigue shear bond strength of zirconia ceramic. The BULK group (18.9 MPa) depicted higher bond strength values than FLOW (14.8 MPa) (p = 0.04), while EVO (18.0 MPa) showed similar results to both groups. No effect was observed for the mechanical behavior (p = 0.53). The stress distribution was similar for all groups.

Conclusion

The repair of yttrium-stabilized zirconia (4YSZ) ceramics with bulk-fill resin composites was the best option for high fatigue bond strength. However, the fatigue mechanical performance was similar regardless of the applied repair material.

Clinical relevance

The repair of yttrium-stabilized zirconia (4YSZ) monolithic restorations may be performed with nanohybrid and bulk-fill resin composites in order to promote longevity in the treatment.
Personal values, subjective wellbeing, and the effects of perceived social support in childhood: A pre-registered study
Authors: Collins Patricia R. , Sneddon Joanne , Lee Julie Anne
Published: February 2024

Personal values are broad motivational goals that have been found to have systematic relations with subjective wellbeing in adults. Values that promote higher subjective wellbeing are considered healthy while those that hamper it are considered unhealthy (Schwartz & Sortheix, 2018). However, little is known about these relations in children. This pre-registered study examined (1) whether the values of children (6 to 12 years of age) relate to their subjective wellbeing and (2) whether these relations are moderated or mediated by perceived social support from parents, teachers, classmates, and close friends. These research questions were examined with a sample of 738 primary school students (50% female). Our results show that healthy growth values were positively related to subjective wellbeing overall, and for the subgroups of girls and children 9 to 12 years but not boys and children 6 to 8 years; however, unhealthy anxiety values were only negatively associated with subjective wellbeing for girls. While perceived social support partially mediated relations between growth values and subjective wellbeing, the direct values-wellbeing relations accounted for over half the variance. Interestingly, this study also found that growth values positively, and anxiety values negatively, influenced perceived social support from all referents. While perceived social support did not moderate values-wellbeing relations in the overall sample, differences were found in the way perceived social support moderated these relations in some age and gender subgroups. Taken together, these findings suggest that healthy growth values positively influence subjective wellbeing in middle childhood, even after accounting for perceived social support.
Experimental Study on Mixed-Mode (I–II) Fracture Toughness of Freshwater Ice
Authors: Xu Yaozhong , Zhou Mao , Yi Xian , Hua Wen , Huang Jiuzhou , Zhang Wenyu , Dong Shiming
Published: February 2024

In recent years, the issue of aircraft icing has gained widespread recognition. The breaking and detachment of dynamic ice can pose a threat to flight safety. However, the shedding and fracture mechanisms of dynamic ice are unclear and cannot meet the engineering needs of ice-shedding hazard assessment. Therefore, studying the fracture toughness of ice bodies has extremely important practical significance. To address this issue, this article uses a centrally cracked Brazilian disk (CCBD) specimen to measure the pure mode I toughness and pure mode II fracture toughness of freshwater ice at different loading rates. The mixed-mode (I–II) fracture characteristics of ice are discussed, and the experimental results are compared and analyzed with the theoretical values of the generalized maximum tangential stress (GMTS) criterion considering the influence of T-stress. The results indicated that as the loading rate increases, the pure mode I toughness and pure mode II fracture toughness of freshwater ice decrease, and the fracture toughness of freshwater ice is more sensitive to the loading rate. In terms of fracture criteria, the theoretical value of the ratio of pure mode II fracture toughness to pure mode I fracture toughness based on the GMTS criterion is in good agreement with the experimental value, while the theoretical value based on the maximum tangential stress (MTS) criterion deviates significantly from the experimental value, indicating that the GMTS criterion considering the influence of T-stress can better predict the experimental results.
Die Rechte indigener Völker und lokaler Bevölkerungen in der Washingtoner Artenschutzkonvention (CITES)
Authors: Sellheim Nikolas
Published: February 2024

Die Washingtoner Artenschutzkonvention (CITES) wird oft als globale Erfolgsgeschichte für den
Schutz bedrohter Tier- und Pflanzenarten gefeiert. Was hierbei allerdings oft nicht betrachtet wird, ist
die Tatsache, dass indigene Völker und lokale Gemeinschaften (IPLCs) vielfach nicht in die Entscheidungsprozesse
eingebunden werden und somit den Zugang zu ihnen wichtigen Ressourcen verlieren. In diesem Beitrag wird
beleuchtet, in wie weit CITES die Rechte von IPLCs betrachtet und es ihnen ermöglicht, die Entscheidungsprozesse
mit zu gestalten und welche andere Interessen ihnen entgegenstehen. Auch wird diskutiert, welche neuen
Entwicklungen es diesbezüglich gibt, insbesondere im Hinblick auf die kürzlich zu Ende gegangene
19. Vertragsstaatenkonferenz.
The impact of domestic R&D and North–South R&D spillovers on energy intensity in developing countries
Authors: Herzer Dierk
Published: February 2024

This study utilizes panel data between 1995 and 2015 for a cross section of 33 developing (low- and middle-income) countries to investigate the impact on domestic energy intensity both of domestic R&D and of possible spillovers from foreign R&D conducted in developed (high-income) countries. More specifically, it examines R&D spillovers from developed countries (North) to domestic energy intensity in developing countries (South) through disembodied channels, total goods imports, and imports of machinery and equipment. Our main findings, based on panel cointegration techniques, are as follows: First, domestic R&D in the long run does not contribute to reductions in energy intensity in developing countries; second, there is no evidence to suggest that disembodied North–South R&D spillovers affect the long-run level of domestic energy intensity; third, there are nevertheless significant spillovers from R&D conducted in industrial countries that reduce energy intensity in developing countries; and fourth, while many imported goods are not a channel for North–South R&D spillovers, such spillovers are transmitted through imports of machinery and equipment.
An mHealth Application in German Health Care System: Importance of User Participation in the Development Process
Authors: Bickmann Peter , Froböse Ingo , Grieben Christopher
Published: February 2024

This paper addresses the challenges and solutions in developing a holistic prevention mobile health application (mHealth app) for Germany’s healthcare sector. Despite Germany’s lag in healthcare digitalization, the app aims to enhance primary prevention in physical activity, nutrition, and stress management. A significant focus is on user participation and usability to counter the prevalent issue of user attrition in mHealth applications, as described by Eysenbach’s ‘law of attrition’. The development process, conducted in a scientific and university context, faces constraints like limited budgets and external service providers. The study firstly presents the structure and functionality of the app for people with statutory health insurance in Germany and secondly the implementation of user participation through a usability study. User participation is executed via usability tests, particularly the think-aloud method, where users verbalize their thoughts while using the app. This approach has proven effective in identifying and resolving usability issues, although some user feedback could not be implemented due to cost-benefit considerations. The implementation of this study into the development process was able to show that user participation, facilitated by methods like think-aloud, is vital for developing mHealth apps. Especially in health prevention, where long-term engagement is a challenge. The findings highlight the importance of allocating time and resources for user participation in the development of mHealth applications.
The relationship between spatial configuration of urban parks and neighbourhood cooling in a humid subtropical city
Authors: Verma Ravi , Zawadzka Joanna Ewa , Garg Pradeep Kumar , Corstanje Ron
Published: February 2024

Context

Urban parks are essential for maintaining aesthetics within cities and keeping their its energy balance by helping mitigate the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect through controlling ambient and land surface temperature (LST).

Objectives

To investigate the impact of cooling in terms of distance by variously configured urban parks of a humid subtropical city, using landscape metrics and open-source data.

Methods

Land use (LU) was obtained through maximum likelihood classification of 3 m resolution aerial RGB-NIR imagery supported by ground control points and park boundaries collected during field survey. LST at matching resolution was obtained through downscaling of Landsat-8 LST at 30/100m resolution, calculated with the Radiative Transfer Equation (RTE). Landscape metrics for patches of parks were calculated using landscapemetrics R library and related to neighbourhood distances over built-up land use (LU).

Results

Urban parks with homogenous cores and less complex shape provide distinctly higher cooling of neighbouring built-up LU of circa 2.55 °C over the distance of 18 m from park boundaries. Four metrics: contiguity index (CONTIG), core area index (CAI), fractal dimension index (FRAC) and perimeter-area ratio (PARA) represent significant relationship between spatial configuration of parks and their cooling distance. No cooling capacity of parks regardless of their shape and core was observed beyond the distance of 18 m, which remained constant with small fluctuations in the range of 0.5 °C up to the distance of 600 m.

Conclusions

The study concludes that cooling distance of urban parks in their neighbourhood extends up to 18 m, which is shorter than suggested by other studies.
The extreme upper tail of Japan’s citation distribution reveals its research success
Authors: Rodríguez-Navarro Alonso , Brito Ricardo
Published: February 2024

A number of indications, such as the number of Nobel Prize winners, show Japan to be a scientifically advanced country. However, standard bibliometric indicators place Japan as a scientifically developing country. The present study is based on the conjecture that Japan is an extreme case of a general pattern in highly industrialized countries. In these countries, scientific publications come from two types of studies: some pursue the advancement of science and produce highly cited publications, while others pursue incremental progress and their publications have a very low probability of being highly cited. Although these two categories of papers cannot be easily identified and separated, the scientific level of Japan can be tested by studying the extreme upper tail of the citation distribution of all scientific articles. In contrast to standard bibliometric indicators, which are calculated from the total number of papers or from sets of papers in which the two categories of papers are mixed, in the extreme upper tail, only papers that are addressed to the advance of science will be present. Based on the extreme upper tail, Japan belongs to the group of scientifically advanced countries and is significantly different from countries with a low scientific level. The number of Clarivate Citation laureates also supports our hypothesis that some citation-based metrics do not reveal the high scientific level of Japan. Our findings suggest that Japan is an extreme case of inaccuracy of some citation metrics; the same drawback might affect other countries, although to a lesser degree.
Usury vulnerability: measuring and modelling the phenomenon in Italy
Authors: Stefanizzi Sonia , Lysova Tatiana
Published: February 2024

Usury has been predominantly studied as an economic or legal phenomenon and only recently has gotten into the spotlight of sociological research. This article aims to contribute to the current literature by operationalising usury vulnerability and analysing household factors impacting it, using the European Union Statistics on Income and Living Conditions (EU-SILC) data for Italy. To construct usury vulnerability, we examined variables measuring a household’s financial and material well-being. As to factors impacting the phenomenon, we included those reflecting a socio-demographic position of a household (household composition and territorial position within the country, age, sex, education, and employment status of the top earner). The estimation results indicate that all micro-level factors matter in terms of usury vulnerability. Therefore, by identifying the most vulnerable social groups, the model might help develop relevant policy interventions to fight the spread of usury, especially in times of economic decline.
Adsorption behavior of Mo(VI) from aqueous solutions using tungstate-modified magnetic nanoparticle
Authors: Abu Elgoud Elsayed M. , Abd-Elhamid Ahmed I. , Aly Hisham F.
Published: February 2024

A new magnetic nanoparticle modified with sodium tungstate (Mnp-Si-W) was synthesized and employed for the sorption of molybdenum from aqueous solutions. The prepared nanoparticles (Mnp-Si-W) were characterized by different advanced techniques. Different parameters that influenced the adsorption percent of Mo(VI) were investigated using a batch process. Based on a systematic investigation of the adsorption isotherms and kinetics models, Mo(VI) adsorption follows the Langmuir model and pseudo-second-order kinetics. According to the Langmuir isotherm model, the Mnp-Si-W nanoparticles exhibited a maximum adsorption capacity of 182.03 mg g−1 for Mo(VI) at pH 2.0. The effect of competing ions showed that the prepared nanoparticles have a high selectivity for the sorption of molybdenum. Moreover, the effect of some interfering anions on Mo(VI) ion sorption is found in the following order: phosphate < sulfate < chromate. Finally, the nanoparticle (Mnp-Si-W) can be successfully reused five times.
Advancements in Spongospora subterranea: Current Knowledge, Management Strategies, and Research Gaps
Authors: Strydom R. F. , Wilson C. R. , Tegg R. S. , Balendres M. A. , van der Waals J. E.
Published: February 2024

Powdery scab was first documented on locally sampled potatoes in Braunschweig, Germany. A hundred and eighty-one years later, the disease has spread globally to most potato-producing regions and is considered one of the most destructive potato diseases. Here, we review the knowledge of powdery scab and causative agent, Spongospora subterranea f. sp. subterranea, highlighting research progress made in the last 7 years. Much work has been done to increase our understanding of how zoospores respond to their environment (e.g. root exudates, Ca2C signalling, and root metabolites) and the management of the disease by chemical and biological control agents. Recent research has utilised omics approaches — metabolomics, proteomics, and genomics — to gain a deeper understanding of the host–pathogen interaction in the powdery scab pathosystem. The management of powdery scab can be achieved using a combination of strategies that include (1) the planting of resistant potato varieties, (2) strategies that avoid disease (field selection and planting date), those that (3) reduce initial soil inoculum (crop rotation, organic soil amendments, and soil fumigation), and (4) in-crop approaches (soil chemical applications, biological control, proper field, fertility, crop, irrigation management, and crop sanitation). Lastly, we discuss research gaps for future research, including the disease’s interaction with other potato diseases that may be impacting disease expression and opportunities to enable a greater understanding of the powdery scab pathosystem.
Impact of fosaprepitant in the prevention of nausea and emesis in head and neck cancer patients undergoing cisplatin-based chemoradiation: a pilot prospective study and a review of literature
Authors: Becherini Carlotta , Salvestrini Viola , Desideri Isacco , Vagnoni Giulia , Bonaparte Ilaria , Bertini Niccolò , Mattioli Chiara , Angelini Lucia , Visani Luca , Scotti Vieri , Livi Lorenzo , Caini Saverio , Bonomo Pierluigi
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is standard treatment for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, IMRT may increase chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of fosaprepitant in preventing CINV.

Methods

An infusion of 150 mg fosaprepitant was given through a 30 min. We assessed acute toxicity using CTCAE v.4 and the incidence of CINV using the FLIE questionnaire. The evaluation of CINV was done at the second and fifth weeks of CRT and 1 week after the end. The EORTC QLQ-HN 43 questionnaire was administered before treatment beginning (baseline), at second (T1) and fifth (T2) weeks. A dosimetric analysis was performed on dorsal nucleus of vagus (DVC) and area postrema (AP).

Results

Between March and November 2020, 24 patients were enrolled. No correlation was found between nausea and DVC mean dose (p = 0.573), and AP mean dose (p = 0.869). Based on the FLIE questionnaire, patients reported a mean score of 30.5 for nausea and 30 for vomiting during week 2 and 29.8 for nausea and 29.2 for vomiting during week 5. After treatment ended, the mean scores were 27.4 for nausea and 27.7 for vomiting. All patients completed the EORTC QLQ-HN 43. Significantly higher scores at T2 assessment than baseline were observed.

Conclusions

The use of fosaprepitant in preventing CINV reduced incidence of moderate to severe nausea and vomiting. No correlation has been found between nausea and median dose to DVC and AP.
On the modelling of thermal convection in porous media through rate-type equations
Authors: Morro Angelo
Published: February 2024

The paper investigates current models of flows in porous media from the viewpoint of the mixture theory. The constitutive equations are investigated for compressible, viscous, heat-conducting fluids subject to relaxation phenomena. The thermodynamic analysis is performed via the Clausius-Duhem inequality based directly on the peculiar fields of the mixture. The detailed analysis so developed involves the peculiar heat fluxes and stresses per se while the balance equations for energy and entropy of the whole body would involve also diffusion effects. Following the objectivity principle, the constitutive equations for stresses and heat fluxes are taken to be governed by objective rate equations.
Some remarks about deformation theory and formality conjecture
Authors: Chen Huachen , Pertusi Laura , Zhao Xiaolei
Published: February 2024

Using the algebraic criterion proved by Bandiera, Manetti and Meazzini, we show the formality conjecture for universally gluable objects with linearly reductive automorphism groups in the bounded derived category of a K3 surface. As an application, we prove the formality conjecture for polystable objects in the Kuznetsov components of Gushel–Mukai threefolds and quartic double solids.
Hepatic and pancreatic extracellular volume fraction analysis using contrast-enhanced CT in patients with diabetes mellitus and pre-diabetes
Authors: Fukui Hideyuki , Onishi Hiromitsu , Nakamoto Atsushi , Tsuboyama Takahiro , Ota Takashi , Honda Toru , Kiso Kengo , Yoshidome Eriko , Enchi Yukihiro , Tatsumi Mitsuaki , Tomiyama Noriyuki
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Liver and pancreatic fibrosis is associated with diabetes mellitus (DM), and liver fibrosis is associated with pancreatic fibrosis. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the hepatic and pancreatic extracellular volume fractions (fECVs), which correlate with tissue fibrosis, and their relationships with DM and pre-DM (pDM).

Material and methods

We included 100 consecutive patients with known or suspected liver and/or pancreatic diseases who underwent contrast-enhanced CT. Patients were classified as nondiabetes, pDM, and DM with hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels of < 5.7%, 5.7%–6.5%, and ≥ 6.5% or fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels of < 100, 100–125 mg/dL, and ≥ 126 mg/dL, respectively. Subtraction images between unenhanced and equilibrium-phase images were prepared. The liver and the pancreas were automatically extracted using a high-speed, three-dimensional image analysis system, and their respective mean CT values were calculated. The enhancement degree of the aorta (Δaorta) was measured. fECV was calculated using the following equation: fECV = (100 − hematocrit) * Δliver or pancreas/Δaorta. Differences were investigated in hepatic and pancreatic fECVs among the three groups, and the correlation between each two in hepatic fECV, pancreatic fECV, and HbA1c was determined.

Results

The pancreatic fECV, which was positively correlated with the hepatic fECV and HbA1c (r = 0.51, P < 0.001, and r = 0.51, P < 0.001, respectively), significantly differed among the three groups (P < 0.001) and was significantly greater in DM than in pDM or nondiabetes and in pDM with nondiabetes (P < 0.001). Hepatic fECV was significantly greater in DM than in nondiabetes (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The pancreatic fECV and pDM/DM are closely related.
Experimental Investigation and Thermodynamic Modeling of the Li$$_2$$O–Al$$_2$$O$$_3$$ System
Authors: de Abreu D. A. , Löffler M. , Kriegel M. J. , Fabrichnaya O.
Published: February 2024

In the present work, phase equilibria in the Li$$_2$$

2

O–Al$$_2$$

2

O$$_3$$

3

system were experimentally studied and calorimetric measurements were performed. Based on obtained results and data from literature, thermodynamic parameters of the system were assessed. The solid solution phases were modeled using Compound Energy Formalism (CEF) and liquid phase was described by two-sublattice partially ionic liquid model. The experimental investigations for selected compositions of isothermally heat-treated samples were performed using x-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) were used to measure the temperature of the reactions as well as the heat capacities, respectively. After DTA, the microstructure was analyzed using SEM. Temperature of peritectic melting of h-LiAl$$_5$$

5

O$$_8$$

8

was determined to be 2222 K and temperature of eutectic reaction Liq $$\leftrightarrow$$
↔
$$\gamma$$
γ
-LiAlO$$_2$$

2

+ h-LiAl$$_5$$

5

O$$_8$$

8

to be 1965 K. Heat capacity of LiAlO$$_2$$

2

and LiAl$$_5$$

5

O$$_8$$

8

was measured in the temperature range of 100-1300 K. The degree of inversion of spinel phase (Al$$^{+3}$$

+
3

, Li$$^{+1}$$

+
1

)$$_1^T$$

1
T

:(Al$$^{+3}$$

+
3

, Li$$^{+1}$$

+
1

, Va)$$_2^O$$

2
O

:O$$_4$$

4

was modelled assuming Al$$^{+3}$$

+
3

and Li$$^{+1}$$

+
1

can occupy tetrahedral (T) and octahedral (O) cationic sublattices while its composition extension in Al$$_2$$

2

O$$_3$$

3

enriched region was described by introducing vacancies in octahedral sites. Thermodynamic description derived in the present study reproduces the degree of inversion close to that of the high-temperature spinel phase, which means that Al$$^{+3}$$

+
3

ions preferentially occupy the tetrahedral sites. The calculated phase diagram satisfactorily agrees with the experimental results. Available experimental thermodynamic data are also reproduced within uncertainty limits.
Last Symbol Distribution in Pattern Avoiding Catalan Words
Authors: Baril Jean-Luc , González Javier F. , Ramírez José L.
Published: February 2024

We study the distribution of the last symbol statistics on the sets of Catalan words avoiding a pattern of length at most three. For each pattern p, we provide a bivariate rational generating function where the coefficient $$\varvec{c}_p(n,k)$$

c

p

(
n
,
k
)

of $$x^ny^k$$

x
n

y
k

in its series expansion is the number of length n Catalan words avoiding p and ending with the symbol k. We deduce recurrence relations or closed forms for $$\varvec{c}_p(n,k)$$

c

p

(
n
,
k
)

and we provide asymptotic approximations for the expectation of the last symbol on all Catalan words avoiding p. We end this paper by describing a computational approach using computer algebra.
Multiple bronchial carcinoids associated with Cowden syndrome
Authors: Tömböl Zsófia , Tőke Judit , Tóth Géza , Varga Zsolt , Balázs Eszter , Tóth Erika , Gergely Lajos , Danihel Ľudovít , Medvecz Márta , Borka Katalin , Tóth Miklós
Published: February 2024

Cowden syndrome (CS) is a rare genetic condition due to the various germline mutations in the phosphatase and tensin homologue on chromosome ten (PTEN) tumour suppressor gene. As a result, CS is characterised by an increased risk of developing various benign and malignant tumours, such as thyroid, breast, endometrial and urogenital neoplasms, as well as gastrointestinal tract tumours. However, the neuroendocrine tumour association with CS is not elucidated yet. We present a case of a 46-year-old male patient diagnosed with testicular seminoma and follicular thyroid cancer in his medical history. Our patient met the clinical diagnostic criteria of Cowden syndrome. Genetic analysis established the clinical diagnosis; a known heterozygous PTEN mutation was detected [PTEN (LRG_311t1)c.388 C > T (p.Arg130Ter)]. Incidentally, he was also seen with multiple pulmonary lesions during his oncological follow-up. A video-assisted thoracoscopic left lingula wedge resection and later resections from the right lung were performed. Histological findings revealed typical pulmonary carcinoid tumours and smaller tumorlets. Somatostatin receptor SPECT-CT, 18F-FDG-PET-CT and 18F-FDOPA-PET-CT scans and endoscopy procedures could not identify any primary tumours in other locations. Our patient is the first published case of Cowden syndrome, associated with multifocal pulmonary carcinoids. Besides multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1, we propose Cowden syndrome as another hereditary condition predisposing to multiple pulmonary tumorlets and carcinoid tumours.
Gonadal dysfunction in women with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zaimi Maria , Michalopoulou Olympia , Stefanaki Katerina , Kazakou Paraskevi , Vasileiou Vasiliki , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Karagiannakis Dimitrios S. , Paschou Stavroula A.
Published: February 2024

It is well known that both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) are related to increased risk for cardiovascular (CV) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, besides these prominently presented complications, DM has also been associated with reproductive dysfunctions. It seems that these disorders are met in up to 40% of women with DM and consist of delayed menarche, all types of menstrual disorders, such as amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, menstrual irregularity, as well as menorrhagia, infertility, characteristics of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and early (or rarely late) menopause. In type 1 DM (T1DM), insulin treatment, although it has reduced the rates of insulinopenic-induced hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, an entity commonly presented in many women with the disease in the past decades, when it is used in excess it can also promote hyperandrogenism. Regarding type 2 DM (T2DM), insulin resistance (IR) and hyperinsulinemia have mainly been implicated in the pathogenesis of reproductive dysfunctions, as insulin can act as gonadotropin on the theca cells of the ovary and can lead to hyperandrogenism and inhibition of proper ovulation. This review aims to detail the reproductive dysfunctions associated with DM and provide scientific data to enlighten the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms.
Detection and Management of Elevated Intracranial Pressure in the Treatment of Acute Community-Acquired Bacterial Meningitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: El-Hajj Victor Gabriel , Pettersson Ingrid , Gharios Maria , Ghaith Abdul Karim , Bydon Mohamad , Edström Erik , Elmi-Terander Adrian
Published: February 2024

Acute bacterial meningitis (ABM) is associated with severe morbidity and mortality. The most prevalent pathogens in community-acquired ABM are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae. Other pathogens may affect specific patient groups, such as newborns, older patients, or immunocompromised patients. It is well established that ABM is associated with elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). However, the role of ICP monitoring and management in the treatment of ABM has been poorly described.An electronic search was performed in four electronic databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. The search strategy chosen for this review used the following terms: Intracranial Pressure AND (management OR monitoring) AND bacterial meningitis. The search yielded a total of 403 studies, of which 18 were selected for inclusion. Eighteen studies were finally included in this review. Only one study was a randomized controlled trial. All studies employed invasive ICP monitoring techniques, whereas some also relied on assessment of ICP-based on clinical and/or radiological observations. The most commonly used invasive tools were external ventricular drains, which were used both to monitor and treat elevated ICP. Results from the included studies revealed a clear association between elevated ICP and mortality, and possibly improved outcomes when invasive ICP monitoring and management were used. Finally, the review highlights the absence of clear standardized protocols for the monitoring and management of ICP in patients with ABM. This review provides an insight into the role of invasive ICP monitoring and ICP-based management in the treatment of ABM. Despite weak evidence certainty, the present literature points toward enhanced patient outcomes in ABM with the use of treatment strategies aiming to normalize ICP using continuous invasive monitoring and cerebrospinal fluid diversion techniques. Continued research is needed to define when and how to employ these strategies to best improve outcomes in ABM.
When corruption creates its Mafia. The “middle-world” case in Rome
Authors: Vannucci Alberto
Published: February 2024

The judicial operation “mondo di mezzo” (middle-world) revealed in 2014 the existence of a criminal network in Rome, dubbed Mafia capitale. Its main function was the governance of a systemic corruption scheme that permeated many sectors of the public administration and the political process of the Italian capital city. Notwithstanding a convulsed judicial history, the network analytically manifests traits of a mafia-type group. Through a qualitative content analysis of intercepted materials, juridical files, and interviews, this paper argues that the peculiar systemic corruption scheme of Mafia capitale has indeed generated mafia-type behaviours. Mafia capitale interconnected corruption and collusion in public procurement, corruption in the bureaucratic and electoral processes (the upperword) together with enforcement of deals from the underworld. This mafia-type group was able to enforce extra-legal deals, through reputational assets and intimidation, inducing people into compliance and silence and gaining benefits for a period of almost three years.
The Escarpão Plateau (South of Portugal)—a Study Case of Nested Geosites from the Aspiring Algarvensis Geopark
Authors: Veiga-Pires Cristina , Oliveira Sónia , Moura Delminda , Pereira Luís
Published: February 2024

Located along the southern limit of the Algarvensis aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark (aUGGp), the Escarpão Plateau is a singular geomorphological structure sculpted by fluvial, karst, and tectonic processes. The plateau is deeply scarved by the Quarteira Rivulet, forming a valley that crosses the most complete Upper Jurassic sedimentary sequence of the Eastern Algarve (Southern Portugal). This sequence includes five geological formations representing different depths of carbonate ramp deposition from the Tethys Sea: Peral Formation, Jordana Formation, Cerro da Cabeça Formation, Escarpão Formation, and the upper Limestone Formation with Anchispirocyclina lusitanica (foraminifera), respectively from the oldest formation to the most recent at the top. Throughout the Quaternary Period, the karst processes shaped a landscape of sparse and poor soils, based on which successive generations adapted their subsistence agriculture and way of life. The geomorphology of the plateau and the rivulet valley, the sequence of the carbonated formations, and the diversity of sedimentary and paleontological records can be considered possible sites of diverse geological interest and with different scales that are embedded in each other, forming thus nested sites. To promote and preserve these sites, the Algarvensis aUGGp shaped an 8-km-long interpretative walking path, passing through 11 points of interest, including biosites and geosites. Their interpretative boards highlight not only the different spatial and temporal geological diversity but also its relationship with surrounding cultural and historical heritage. Finally, this work allowed the creation of new products for outreach and public awareness towards an effective geoconservation.
Effect of watershed characteristics on river flow for the case of two watersheds, Megech and Gumaro, Upper Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Kassahun Fentahun A. , Kifelew Mekash S. , Ahmad Imran , Abate Fentabil S. , Mesalie Roman A.
Published: February 2024

Land degradation is a series of problems in Ethiopia’s highlands, particularly in the Upper Blue Nile River Basin reflected in the form of soil erosion and reduce soil fertility from time to time. The effect of watershed characteristics on the river flow of those watersheds was evaluated by distributing a physically based hydrological model known as the soil and water assessment tool model. The model was calibrated for the river flow from 1992 to 2006 and validated for the period from 2007 to 2014. The performance of the model was evaluated based on performance rating criteria, coefficient of determination, and Nash and Sutcliff efficiency on monthly based value, the coefficient of determination (R2) and Nash–Sutcliffe coefficient was greater than 0.6 and 0.5 for all scenarios on both watersheds, respectively. The land-use land-cover change scenario, the climate characteristics, and the slope change scenario was developed, from those analyses, it was found that has been a substantial decrease or increase in forest land, shrubland, grassland, and expansion of agricultural land. The mean annual streamflow of 2010 LULC decreased by 1.44% for 2010 from 2003 LULC and 5.23% for 2018 from 2010. Because of reduced cultivated land from 2010 up to 2018 and increased grassland and plantation in the Megech watershed and 2010 LULC decreased by 0.9% for 2010 from 2003 LULC and 2.04% in 2018 from 2010. This distributed physically based hydrological model has been applied for the evaluation of physical catchment characteristics with significant differences which was Cropland for Megech and Gumaro watersheds which were 67.28% and 61.5%, respectively, for the 2003 LULC, 64.94% Megech, and 58.89% for Gumaro watershed for 2010LULC and 51.95% for Megech and 42.12% for Gumaro watershed, similarly, Eutric Cambisols were covering large areas for both watersheds.
Mirtazapine loaded polymeric micelles for rapid release tablet: A novel formulation—In vitro and in vivo studies
Authors: El-Helaly Sara Nageeb , Rashad Amira A.
Published: February 2024

Major depression is a prevalent disorder characterized by sadness, lack of interest or pleasure, interrupted sleep or food, and impaired concentration. Mirtazapine (MTZ), a tetracyclic antidepressant drug, is commonly used to treat moderate to severe depression. MTZ is classified as a BCS class II drug that has shown bioavailability of 50% due to extensive first-pass metabolism. The aim of this research is to develop a delivery platform with enhanced solubility and oral bioavailability of MTZ through formulating polymeric micelles modeled in a rapid release tablet. Mirtazapine loaded polymeric micelles (MTZ-PMs) were formulated to enhance the solubility. Solutol®HS 15 and Brij 58 were used as combined surfactants in a ratio of (20:1) to MTZ in addition to Transcutol®P as a penetration enhancer. The following in vitro tests were performed: particle size, PDI, zeta potential, solubility factor, stability index, and transmission electron microscopes. Afterward, MTZ-PMs were converted to dry free flowable powder through loading on the adsorptive surface of Aerosil 200; then, the powder mixture was directly compressed (MTZ-PMs-RRT) into 13 mm tablets. MTZ-PMs-RRT was further investigated using in vitro evaluation tests of the tablets, namely, weight variation, thickness, diameter, hardness, friability, disintegration time, drug content, and in vitro dissolution test, which complied with the pharmacopeial limits. The pharmacokinetic parameters of MTZ-PMs-RRT compared to Remeron®tablet were further investigated in rabbits. The results showed enhanced solubility of MTZ with improved percentage relative bioavailability to 153%. The formulation of MTZ in the form of MTZ-PMs-RRT successfully improved the solubility, stability, and bioavailability of MTZ using a simple and scalable manufacturing process.

Graphical Abstract
Operational modal analysis, seismic vulnerability assessment and retrofit of a degraded RC bell tower
Authors: Castelli Simone , Labò Simone , Belleri Andrea , Moaveni Babak
Published: February 2024

This paper presents damage assessment through Operational Modal Analysis (OMA) and Finite Element (FE) model updating of the bell tower of the church of Castro in Bergamo, Italy. The tower is a 39 m high reinforced concrete structure with hollow cross-section and double-curved shape. The research was dictated by the need to identify the actual damage state of the structure, which was found through visual inspections. Piezoelectric accelerometers were used to record the ambient vibrations in subsequent test setups, using the roving technique for system identification. A detailed FE model was created with shell elements and calibrated to match the system identification results. A simplified beam model was then developed based on the modal analysis results of the detailed model. A sensitivity analysis was performed to identify the most influential model parameters on the modal characteristics of the system. Subsequently, the optimal values of these parameters were determined by an optimisation procedure carried out using a typical global optimization algorithm. The updating results allowed assessment of the actual condition of the bell tower and its seismic vulnerability. Finally, a seismic strengthening solution was recommended.