bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation on Multifunctional Properties of (Pb0.92La0.08) (Zr0.55Ti0.45)O3 Relaxor Ferroelectric Thin Film for Energy‐Harvesting and Storage Applications
Authors: Balaraman Anina Anju , Jayakrishnan Ampattu R. , Jeyaseelan A Antony , Sahoo Balaram , Dutta Soma
Published: December 2023

In this work, the dielectric, ferroelectric, energy storage, electrocaloric (EC), and pyroelectric properties of (Pb0.92La0.08)(Zr0.55Ti0.45)O3 (PLZT) thin film (704 nm) are highlighted. The temperature‐dependent dielectric measurements reveal its relaxor behavior with an excellent tunability (≈64%) and a room‐temperature dielectric constant of ≈1670 at a frequency of 1 kHz. The film demonstrates a recoverable energy storage density of 16.13 J cm−3 and an efficiency of ≈67 %, under an applied field of ≈1915 kV cm−1. The energy storage density of the film exhibits a room‐temperature fatigue endurance of 107 cycles, with a relative deviation of 13%. The EC temperature change (ΔT) and entropy change (ΔS) of 1.42 K and 3.88 J kg−1 K−1, respectively, are measured at near room temperature at 33 MV m−1. In addition, the film demonstrates a high pyroelectric coefficient of 304 μC m−2 K−1 at 293 K. These properties indicate the potential of PLZT film for high‐field energy storage, cooling, and energy‐harvesting applications.
Multidimensional Heterostructure Sn‐Based (SnO2/MoS2)@C Composites as Superior Anode Material for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhu Bowen , Xie Huan , Chen Yaozhong , Chen Li , Wang Yuting , Gao Lvjin , Zou Yi , Liu Zhaolin
Published: December 2023

Sn‐based composites are promising anode materials for Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical specific capacity. However, the large volume expansion during lithiation, poor conductivity and poor stability limit their practical applications as anodes of LIBs. Herein, (SnO2/MoS2)@C composites with 0D/1D/2D multidimensional microstructures are successfully prepared via successive two‐step hydrothermal reactions with a subsequent multi‐coating modification and pyrolysis. Due to the structural integrity, interconnected conductive paths, and synergistic effect between the MoS2 nanosheets and SnO2 nanoparticles, the (SnO2/MoS2)@C composite shows excellent electrochemical performance as anode for LIBs. The composite is able to deliver high reversible capacities of 953.4, 797.9, 758.3, 711.9, and 658.6 mAh g−1 at current densities of 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, and 2 A g−1, respectively. Furthermore, it also demonstrates good cyclic performance at 0.2 A g−1.
Research Perspective for Perovskite/Silicon Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Hasan Syed Azkar Ul , Yi Junsin
Published: December 2023

Multi‐absorbers, and tandem solar cells (TSCs), have enticed research focus with their competitive advantage of crossing the limits posed by Shockley–Queisser efficiency by single‐junction solar cell (SC). Perovskite solar cells (PSC) with their bandgap tunability and ease of solution processing at low temperatures for securing high efficiency (25.8%) provide an ideal candidate for top cell in TSC. Simultaneously, Si SCs with a 95% market share and their ideal low bandgap (1.12 eV) for capturing high‐energy photons in the near‐infrared (NIR) can assume bottom cell in TSC. This review highlights the research perspective for perovskite/Si TSCs to expedite its emergence as future TSC. The 4T device architecture of perovskite/Si TSC optically couples the subcells whereas the 2T configuration ensures the optical and electrical coupling among the constituent subcells. The semitransparency of the top cell, flat as well as textured Si bottom cell, matching of the current between the subcell through the recombination and tunnel junction layers, and modification of perovskites through‐thickness variation are few worth‐considering factors that contribute toward highly efficient perovskite/Si TSC. Finally, the research insight about perovskite/Si and all‐perovskite TSC is analyzed with reference to the ideal choice for the bottom cell.
Numerical Study on Leakage Dispersion Pattern and Hazardous Area of Ammonia Storage Tanks
Authors: Hu Xiangming , Su Minghui , Chen Xu , Wang Yu , Yu Shiyuan , Zhao Yang
Published: December 2023

Ammonia can be extremely dangerous if it leaks during storage and use. Therefore, in this article, the ammonia leakage diffusion law is investigated and the hazardous area is analyzed by establishing numerical model and simulating the diffusion process of concentration, flow rate, and temperature of ammonia storage tanks at different leakage locations, wind speeds, and leakage amounts. In the results, it is shown that when the leakage port is located at the top of the tank, and ammonia in high concentrations is more deflected and closer to the surface with the increase of wind speeds, the high concentration of ammonia gas gradually takes a vertical shape with the increase of leakage volume. When the leakage location is at the bottom of the storage tank, the leeward side area is the hazardous area with the increase of wind speed. The area and height of the cloud of highly concentrated ammonia increase with the increase of leakage volume. When the leak is located on the side of the tank and the wind direction opposite side, with the increase of wind speed both sides of the tank are in the hazardous area. High concentrations of ammonia will spread backward across the tank with the increase of leakage volume.
Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) Negatively Impacts Prey Capture Capabilities in Larval Zebrafish
Authors: Zoodsma Josiah D. , Boonkanon Chanita , Running Logan , Basharat Rehman , Atilla-Gokcumen G. Ekin , Aga Diana S. , Sirotkin Howard I.
Published: December 2023

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used in many industrial and domestic applications, which has resulted in unintentional human exposures and bioaccumulation in blood and other organs. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is among the most prevalent PFAS in the environment and has been postulated to affect brain functions in exposed organisms. However, the impacts of PFOS in early neural development have not been well described. We used zebrafish larvae to assess the effects of PFOS on two fundamental complex behaviors, prey capture and learning. Zebrafish exposed to PFOS concentrations ranging from 2 to 20 µM for differing 48-h periods were viable through early larval stages. In addition, PFOS uptake was unaffected by the presence of a chorion. We employed two different experimental paradigms; first we assessed the impacts of increasing organismal PFOS bioaccumulation on prey capture and learning, and second, we probed stage-specific sensitivity to PFOS by exposing zebrafish at different developmental stages (0–2 vs. 3–5 days post fertilization). Following both assays we measured the amount of PFOS present in each larva and found that PFOS levels varied in larvae from different groups within each experimental paradigm. Significant negative correlations were observed between larval PFOS accumulation and percentage of captured prey, whereas nonsignificant negative correlations were observed between PFOS accumulation and experienced-induced prey capture learning. These findings suggest that PFOS accumulation negatively affects larval zebrafish's ability to perform complicated multisensory behaviors and highlights the potential risks of PFOS exposure to animals in the wild, with implications for human health. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:847–855. © 2023 SETAC
Current status and therapeutic strategy of acute acalculous cholecystitis: Japanese nationwide survey in the era of the Tokyo guidelines
Authors: Morikawa Takanori , Akada Masanori , Shimizu Kenji , Nishida Yasunori , Izai Junko , Kajioka Hiroki , Miura Takayuki , Ishida Masaharu , Unno Michiaki
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to clarify the incidence, therapeutic modality, and prognosis of acute acalculous cholecystitis and to reveal its optimal treatment strategy.

Methods

As a project study of the Japanese Society for Abdominal Emergency Medicine, we performed a questionnaire survey of demographic data and perioperative outcomes of acute acalculous cholecystitis treated between January 2018 and December 2020 from 42 institutions.

Results

In this study, 432 patients of acute acalculous cholecystitis, which accounts for 7.04% of acute cholecystitis, were collected. According to the Tokyo guidelines severity grade, 167 (38.6%), 202 (46.8%), and 63 (14.6%) cases were classified as Grade I, II, and III, respectively. A total of 11 (2.5%) patients died and myocardial infarction/congestive heart failure was the only independent risk factor for in‐hospital death. Cholecystectomy, especially the laparoscopic approach, had more preferable outcomes compared to their counterparts. The Tokyo guidelines flow charts were useful for Grade I and II severity, but in the cases with Grade III, upfront cholecystectomy could be suitable in some patients.

Conclusions

The proportions of severity grade and mortality of acute acalculous cholecystitis were found to be similar to those of acute cholecystitis, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy is recommended as an effective treatment option. (UMIN000047631).
Experimental structure based drug design (SBDD) applications for anti‐leishmanial drugs: A paradigm shift?
Authors: Marín Miguel , López Marta , Gallego‐Yerga Laura , Álvarez Raquel , Peláez Rafael
Published: December 2023

Leishmaniasis is a group of neglected tropical diseases caused by at least 20 species of Leishmania protozoa, which are spread by the bite of infected sandflies. There are three main forms of the disease: cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL, the most common), visceral leishmaniasis (VL, also known as kala‐azar, the most serious), and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. One billion people live in areas endemic to leishmaniasis, with an annual estimation of 30,000 new cases of VL and more than 1 million of CL. New treatments for leishmaniasis are an urgent need, as the existing ones are inefficient, toxic, and/or expensive. We have revised the experimental structure‐based drug design (SBDD) efforts applied to the discovery of new drugs against leishmaniasis. We have grouped the explored targets according to the metabolic pathways they belong to, and the key achieved advances are highlighted and evaluated. In most cases, SBDD studies follow high‐throughput screening campaigns and are secondary to pharmacokinetic optimization, due to the majoritarian belief that there are few validated targets for SBDD in leishmaniasis. However, some SBDD strategies have significantly contributed to new drug candidates against leishmaniasis and a bigger number holds promise for future development.
Compact high directivity branch‐line hybrid using distributed realization of lumped elements
Authors: Nishad Praween Kumar , Ghosh Debapratim
Published: December 2023

This letter presents a compact high directivity branch‐line hybrid. The proposed hybrid is designed using a symmetrical ‐shaped structure, which incorporates a symmetrical ‐equivalent circuit. The ‐structure comprises one series low‐impedance line and two shunt high‐impedance stubs. The low‐impedance line is realized using a ‐equivalent circuit consisting of two spiral inductors and one patch capacitor. A detailed analytical design procedure is developed. A prototype hybrid is fabricated on FR‐4 substrate and the measured ‐parameters are in close agreement with the simulated results. The proposed hybrid has a compact size with 54% area reduction compared to a conventional branch‐line hybrid. In addition, the hybrid achieves 43 dB directivity at its center frequency of 0.9 GHz.
A filtering patch antenna with reflectionless in a wide frequency range
Authors: Li Jian‐Feng , Li Xi‐Qing , Wu Duo‐Long , Ye Liang Hua
Published: December 2023

A filtering antenna consists of a reflective filtering antenna (RFA) and a bandstop filter (BSF) is presented. Due to the L‐shaped feeding structure, slots etching on the radiator and the ground plane, the RFA obtains good impendence matching, stable in‐band gain, as well as four reflective radiation nulls, and that contribute an operating band of 19% and good frequency selectivity to the proposed filtering antenna. The RFA and BSF are cascaded directly, and the compact BSF is terminated by a resistor to absorb the stopband energy of the RFA, bringing good reflectionless characteristics in a wide frequency range to the proposed filtering antenna. The proposed filtering antenna has a 2‐dB gain bandwidth of 22% (1.78–2.22 GHz), in‐band gain of about 6.81 dBi, radiation suppression levels of higher than 23.4 and 21.4 dB for the lower and upper stopbands, respectively. Within 1.0–3.0 GHz, |S11| ≤ −12 dB, implying slight effect of reflected wave on the devices connected to the proposed filtering antenna.
Measuring body composition in pediatric patients with complex diagnoses: Acceptability, practicality, and validation of different techniques
Authors: Lara‐Pompa Nara E. , Macdonald Sarah , Fawbert Katherine , Shaw Vanessa , Wells Jonathan C. , Fewtrell Mary , Hill Susan
Published: December 2023

Background

Body composition could help identify malnutrition in pediatric patients, but there is uncertainty over which techniques are most suitable and prevailing opinion that measurements are difficult to obtain in practice. This study examined the acceptability, practicality, reliability, and validity of different anthropometric and body composition measurements in patients with complex diagnoses in a tertiary pediatric hospital.

Methods

A total of 152 children aged 5–18 years had weight, height, body mass index (BMI), mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC), 4‐site skinfold thicknesses (SFT), bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) assessed on admission and discharge. Acceptability was assessed in a continuous scale, practicality with number/percentage of successful measurements, reliability with intraclass correlation coefficients and coefficients of repeatability, and validity between “simpler” techniques and DXA with Bland‐Altman analysis of agreement and Cohen kappa.

Results

Techniques were overall acceptable. Measurements were successful in >50%, with patient refusal uncommon. Coefficients of repeatability were good (0.3 cm MUAC and height, 0.2 kg weight, and 1.0 mm SFTs). All techniques significantly overestimated DXA fat mass, but BMI and triceps SFT better identified abnormal fat mass (κ = 0.46 and 0.49). BIA fat‐free mass was not significantly different from DXA, with substantial agreement between techniques (κ = 0.65).

Conclusion

Body composition by a range of techniques is acceptable, practical, and reliable in a diverse group of children with complex diagnoses. BIA seems a good alternative to DXA for assessing fat‐free mass, triceps SFT, and BMI for fat mass but should be used with care as it could overestimate total fat mass in individuals.
Wet continuous mixing technology and extrusion rheological properties of carbon black/natural rubber composites
Authors: Xiao Yao , Huang Yinggang , Li Biao , Xu Yifan , Wang He , Wang Chuansheng , Bian Huiguang
Published: December 2023

In order to solve the problems of dust, low mixing efficiency, and poor quality stability in dry mixing and continuous mixing, this study combined the flocculation extrusion technology with continuous mixing technology of carbon black/additives/natural rubber composites. The flocculation of latex was achieved by carbon black itself and the shearing of the twin screw. The continuous mixing was carried out in a double‐rotor continuous mixer, which was composed of functional elements such as the exhaust section and extrusion section. The results showed that the technology promoted the formation of the filler‐rubber network, the sensitivity of viscosity to temperature was weakened, and the rubber was closer to a Newtonian fluid, with less extrusion swell phenomenon and no obvious spiral distortion. Compared with the dry mixing, the tensile strength, rebound rate, and abrasion resistance of the rubber composites prepared by this technology were increased by 11%, 31%, and 9%, respectively, providing theoretical and technical guidance for the green production and continuous production of high‐performance natural rubber composites.

Highlights

The process is achieved by a twin‐screw extruder and a twin‐rotor continuous mixer.

The process promotes the formation of the filler‐rubber network.

The sensitivity of viscosity to temperature is weakened, with no spiral distortion.

The tensile strength, rebound rate, and abrasion resistance are increased by 11%, 31%, and 9%.
A designer Schiff based motif offered dual dynamic exchangeable bonds, faster curing and closed‐loop circularity in epoxy vitrimers
Authors: Tripathi Sandeep , H. Supriya , Bose Suryasarathi
Published: December 2023

A fast‐curing epoxy with improved mechanical properties, self‐healing and re‐processability was designed using a tailored Schiff based motif that offered dual covalent adaptable network (CAN) in epoxy. The designer motif is a dynamic hardener with both acetal linkage and a Schiff base motif in the same molecule which allowed us to gain a mechanistic insight into the evolving transient network in epoxy vitrimers. The dynamic hardener besides offering a cross‐linked network in epoxy can facilitate rapid exchange reactions, resulting in a material with high tensile strength (74 MPa), high glass transition temperature (121°C), and that can be re‐purposed through solvent induced degradation. The proposed dynamic curing agent is suitable to be employed as a coating material on substrates to ensure excellent self‐healing and re‐processability ensuring chemical recyclability. Few carbon fiber‐based laminates were prepared using the epoxy vitrimer and the recovery of CF post laminate preparation clearly demonstrates the closed‐loop circularity in epoxy vitrimers.

Highlights

A unique dynamic curing agent is designed consisting of an aldehyde (salicylaldehyde) and an amine and acetal containing species (amino acetaldehyde dimethyl acetal).

It facilitates imine and acetal exchange that can bond at temperatures <60°C and break at temperatures >105°C as evidenced by the vitrimer transition temperature.

Epoxies show high tensile strength (74 MPa), exceptional Tg (121°C), fast stress relaxation and an activation energy of 96.2 KJ/mol.

The imine‐acetal exchange system rendered the epoxies re‐processable, malleable and re‐usable.
The Second-Year Publication of the Open Access Book Series “Progress in Landslide Research and Technology”
Authors: Sassa Kyoji
Published: December 2023

The ICL new open-access book series “Progress in Landslide Research and Technology” was launched in 2022, and the founding issues, Vol.1, No.1 and No.2 2022 were successfully published by active authors, KLC2020 official promoters as well as voluntary volume editors. The starting point of this new book series is the publication of the journal “Landslides” of the ICL in 2004. Based on the experience and the assets of good editors and enthusiastic authors through these 18 years, the ICL and journal editors have been challenged to launch the Open Access Book Series “Progress in Landslide Research and Technology” in 2022.

The book series provides a joint platform for the publication of recent progress in landslide research and technology for practical applications and the benefit for the society contributing to the Kyoto Landslide Commitment 2020, which is expected to continue until 2030 and beyond to globally promote the understanding and reduction of landslide disaster risk, as well as to address and help implementing the UN 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goals.

This short article states firstly the financial management (Book Processing Charge: BPC), which is the most important for the sustainability of publishing an open access book series, and the selection of cover photo and the issue editors on the front cover. Number of issue editors were changed from 5 for Volume 1 Issue 1, to 9 for Volume 1 Issue 2 and 11 for Volume 2 Issue 1. Secondly, the creation of a new Award related to this book series, and the support of the core activities of the International Programme on Landslides (IPL): A Programme of the ICL for Landslide Disaster Risk Reduction through this book series are explained.

The countries of the authors, and the number of pages and articles of eight categories were compared in the founding two issues and the first issue of the second year. Finally, the oral presentation opportunity on their results for the authors of P-RLT in 2023 is introduced. We had the first oral presentation opportunity at the ICL 20th Anniversary and IPL-KLC Symposium in November 2022. Authors obtained something different merits from printed publication as from oral presentation. We have a plan to offer the next opportunity for orally presenting the results in June and November, 2023.
The Modern Activity of the Buzulgan Landslide and Its Influence on the Debris Flow Hazard for the Tyrnyauz Town (Northern Caucasus, Russia)
Authors: Zerkal Oleg V. , Chernomorets Sergey S. , Iudina Viktoriia A. , Dokukin Mikhail D. , Krylenko Inna N. , Savernyuk Elena A. , Vinogradova Tatiana A. , Zaporozhchenko Eduard V.
Published: December 2023

The valley of the Gerkhozhan-Su River (a tributary of the Baksan River) in the Norther Caucasus is one of the most debris flow-prone areas in Russia. Large-scale debris flows here have occurred in 1937, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1977, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2011, 2017. The Tyrnyauz town is located in the impact zone of the debris flows. A significant impact on the debris flow hazard in the Gerkhozhan-Su River valley is exerted by the Buzulgan landslide, which was formed on the right side of the valley with a height of about 350 m and an average steepness of 23–25°. The area where the Buzulgan landslide was formed is located within the Pshekish-Tyrnyauz suture zone, which is a 2–3 km wide belt of the intensive tectonic fragmentation. The modern landslide activity began in March 2020. The main phase of the landslide displacement occurred in August 2020. The total volume of the landslide is estimated as 7.0–7.2 × 106 m3. It formed a dam that blocked the Gerkhozhan-Su River valley. No large lake was impounded upstream, as the river has eroded a new channel near the left side of the valley in a short time. A landslide dam, composed of disintegrated deposits, increases the debris flow hazard. The occurrence of debris flows in the river valleys upstream the dam site will rise the landslide-damned lake level, which rapid breakthrough may cause a catastrophic debris flow surge downstream. In this study the influence of Buzulgan landslide on the debris flows passage was identified. The method of complex modeling was applied: the transport-shift model (the FLOVI program) for the zone of the potential debris flow—landslide interaction and the FLO-2D hydrodynamic model for the valley zoning. Modeling of the alluvial fan inundation was carried out for the case of the channel blockage at the Tyrnyauz bridge by debris flow deposits or bridge collapse. The difference between inundation zones using the various rheological parameters was ~10%. The distinction between inundation zones for this case and in the absence of the bridge blockage was about 26%. Residential buildings, buildings of the Elbrus district administration, several schools, and a kindergarten are located in the flood prone zone.
Landslide Risk Assessment in the Tropical Zone of Vietnam as a Contribution to the Mitigation of Natural Disaster Vulnerability
Authors: Van Tien Dinh , Thanh Nguyen Kim , Quang Lam Huu , Ha Do Ngoc , Sassa Kyoji , Miyagi Toyohiko , Abe Shinro
Published: December 2023

Landslide risk assessment is considered an important objective in minimizing damage caused by this extreme event. The biggest challenge of assessing landslide risk is predicting the likelihood of a catastrophic event. To evaluate this possibility, studies have focused on building integrated maps of assessment, using predictive models such as testings, scale models, numerical models, and actual field observations. This article summarizes the research achievements and applications achieved in the past ten years of the Institute of Transport Science and Technology in the landslide risk assessment in Vietnam.
Digital Terrain Models Derived from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Landslide Susceptibility
Authors: Paulín Gabriel Legorreta , Parrot Jean-François , Castro-Miguel Rutilio , Arana-Salinas Lilia , Quesada Fernando Aceves
Published: December 2023

Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) are among the most important spatial information tools used in geomorphological landslide assessment because they allow the extraction of crucial attributes, such as landslide geometry, slope, terrain curvature, etc. However, at a local scale, the assessment of remote volcanic terrains is difficult because the DTMs have poor spatial and temporal representation. Worldwide, geomorphological analysis of landslides processes in mountainous terrains with difficult access has benefited with virtual topography representations using high-resolution Digital Surface Models (DSMs) generated by imagery captured by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). These DSMs include not only the ground topography, but also other landscape elements such as vegetation, buildings, cars, etc. These natural and anthropogenic elements are considered as non-relevant information or noise to obtain only the ground information. Photogrammetric post-processing of the DSM is required to derive a DTM that represent only ground topography. This research uses a Canopy Height Model (CHM), an altimetric selection mask, weights, a low-pass filter, and specific algorithms to generate a DTM from a high-resolution DSM derived from the UAVs and a DTM of a 1:50,000 map. With the DTM thus obtained, landslide susceptibility assessment was then conducted. The assessment completed by means of multiple logistic regression (MLR) in the study area. The Cerro de la Miel in Tepoztlán, State of Morelos, Mexico, is selected to exemplify this method. The study area was affected by rockfalls and shallow landslides during the earthquake on September 19, 2017. The results show an adequate representation of the ground topography, and eliminating most of the noise coming from the high-resolution DSM allowed us to define the landslide susceptibility. For the calculated landslide susceptibility, there is a 76% match between the model and the landslide inventory.
Impact of Input Data on the Quality of the Landslide Susceptibility Large-Scale Maps: A Case Study from NW Croatia
Authors: Krkač Martin , Bernat Gazibara Sanja , Sinčić Marko , Lukačić Hrvoje , Šarić Gabrijela , Mihalić Arbanas Snježana
Published: December 2023

The study presents analyses of input data impact on the quality of the landslide susceptibility large-scale maps. For comparison, two input data sets were used to produce two landslide susceptibility maps. The first input data set included free-available, small-scale data with low spatial accuracy, while the second set included high-resolution remote sensing data. The same nine types of landslide causal factors were derived and used for susceptibility analyses. Furthermore, LiDAR-based landslide inventory and bivariate statistical method, i.e. Information Value method, were used for susceptibility modelling. The resulting landslide susceptibility maps were compared with ROC curves. Success and prediction rates showed that the landslide susceptibility model based on causal factors derived from high-resolution remote sensing data is approximately 10% more accurate than the model based on causal factors derived from small-scale input data. Furthermore, based on the conducted research, it can be concluded that susceptibility modelling based on small-scale data and LiDAR-based inventories enables reliable landslide susceptibility assessments at the regional level.
Landslide Warning Systems in High-Income Countries: Past Accomplishments and Expected Endeavours
Authors: Alcántara-Ayala Irasema , Garnica-Peña Ricardo J.
Published: December 2023

Special emphasis has been given to the role Early Warning Systems (EWSs) can play as mechanisms for disaster risk reduction (DRR) around the globe. Along this line, the International Consortium on Landslides (ICL) has promoted several efforts to create regional and global network initiatives that include, among other relevant activities, landslides early warning systems (LEWSs). This task has actively involved the ICL community in supporting the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) in all the nations included as members.

Despite the advances in the development of LEWSs, their successful implementation worldwide remains a challenge to be addressed. Building on earlier efforts, an overview of the diverse dimensions of LEWSs in High-Income Countries (HICs) is provided in this chapter.

Insights derived from a systematic literature review, are included in this document and organized into five sections. The introductory part focuses on the relevance of LEWSs in HICs and outlines the structure of the chapter. It is followed by a general reflection on hazard knowledge-based LEWSs. Details on the methodology used for this analysis are provided in the third section. The outcomes of the literature review are presented in the fourth section, while key messages are included at the end of the chapter.

Technology development for potential LEWSs, hazard analysis for LEWSs, and models and prototypes for LEWSs are the main thematic focus of research in the analyzed publications.
Mathematical and Numerical Modeling of Slope Stability for the Mong Sen Landslide Event in the Trung Chai Commune, Sapa, Vietnam
Authors: Van Duong Binh , Fomenko Igor K. , Nguyen Lan Chau , Nguyen Kien Trung , Do Tuan-Nghia , Gorobtsov Denis N. , Zerkal Oleg V. , Dinh Hien The
Published: December 2023

The northern mountainous region of Vietnam is particularly susceptible to sediment-related disasters, such as landslides, during the rainy season. This paper presents slope stability modeling results for a landslide event triggered by heavy rainfall in Trung Chai commune, Sapa, Vietnam. Stability simulations were conducted using input data, including 1-m DEM, the distribution and characteristics of slope materials, and the change of pore pressure ratio. The behavior of slopes under the impact of rainfall was analyzed using the limit equilibrium method and the finite element method, which are integrated into the programs of Rocscience Inc. In addition, since the Trung Chai commune is located in a seismically active region, single earthquakes or the combination of earthquakes and rainfall may trigger landslides. As a result, the study determined the relationship between seismic loading and pore water pressure for the studied slope. The study results showed that both limit equilibrium and the finite element methods have high efficacy in modeling slope stability in this study. Therefore, this study recommended that these methods may be employed for slope stability studies in other regions of Vietnam or other regions of the world with similar geological conditions.
A Computationally Efficient Method to Determine the Probability of Rainfall-Triggered Cut Slope Failure Accounting for Upslope Hydrological Conditions
Authors: Robson Ellen , Milledge David , Utili Stefano , Dattola Giuseppe
Published: December 2023

We present a new computationally efficient methodology to estimate the probability of rainfall-induced slope failure based on mechanical probabilistic slope stability analyses coupled with a hydrogeological model of the upslope area. The model accounts for: (1) uncertainty of geotechnical and hydrogeological parameters; (2) rainfall precipitation recorded over a period of time; and (3) the effect of upslope topography. The methodology provides two key outputs: (1) time-varying conditional probability of slope failure; and (2) an estimate of the absolute frequency of slope failure over any time period of interest. The methodology consists of the following steps: first, characterising the uncertainty of the slope geomaterial strength parameters; second, performing limit equilibrium method stability analyses for the realisations of the geomaterial strength parameters required to calculate the slope probability of failure by a Monte Carlo Simulation. The stability analyses are performed for various phreatic surface heights. These phreatic surfaces are then matched to a phreatic surface time series obtained from the 1D Hillslope-Storage Boussinesq model run for the upslope area to generate Factor of Safety (FoS) time series. A time-varying conditional probability of failure and an absolute frequency of slope failure can then be estimated from these FoS time series. We demonstrate this methodology on a road slope cutting in Nepal where geotechnical tests are not readily conducted. We believe this methodology improves the reliability of slope safety estimates where site investigation is not possible. Also, the methodology enables practitioners to avoid making unrealistic assumptions on the hydrological input. Finally, we find that the time-varying failure probability shows marked variations over time as a result of the monsoon wet–dry weather.
Decreased bone mineral density is associated with an increased number of teeth with periodontitis progression: a 5-year retrospective cohort study
Authors: Khunthananithi Phanthapha , Lertpimonchai Attawood , Sritara Chanika , Srithanyarat Supreda Suphanantachat , Thienpramuk Lalitsara , Mongkornkarn Sanutm
Published: December 2023

Objective

Longitudinal studies on the systemic bone loss-periodontitis relationship are limited with disparate results. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between bone mineral density (BMD) and periodontitis progression, controlling for other covariables in a Thai population.

Materials and methods

In 2,418 participants, BMD values of the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip were measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at baseline. Each participant’s BMD status was classified as normal, osteopenia, or osteoporosis. Full mouth periodontal examinations on 6 sites/tooth were performed at baseline and 5-year follow-up visits. Periodontitis progression was defined as a tooth presenting an additional proximal CAL loss of ≥ 3 mm or an additional lost tooth with a baseline CAL ≥ 5 mm. The risk effects of BMD status on the number of teeth with periodontitis progression were analyzed using multivariate Poisson regression.

Results

Baseline BMD status of osteoporosis was associated with an increased number of teeth with periodontitis progression in the subgroups of postmenopausal women, non-smokers, and participants with periodontitis stage III/IV with adjusted risk ratios of 1.31 (95% CI = 1.09–1.58), 1.19 (95% CI = 1.04–1.36), and 1.13 (95% CI = 1.00–1.28), respectively.

Conclusion

Baseline BMD in the osteoporosis range increased the risk of having a greater number of teeth with periodontitis progression in specific participant subgroups.

Clinical Relevance

Decreased BMD is a potential factor affecting periodontitis progression risk in some individuals. Multidisciplinary approaches in educating and maintaining patients’ bone-oral health may help improve their quality of life.
Oncological outcomes of conversion therapy in gastric cancer patients with peritoneal metastasis: a large-scale retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yang Zhongyin , Lu Sheng , Shi Min , Yuan Hong , Wang Zhenqiang , Ni Zhentian , He Changyu , Zheng Yanan , Zhu Zhenglun , Liu Wentao , Yao Xuexin , Zhang Jun , Li Chen , Yan Min , Yan Chao , Zhu Zhenggang
Published: December 2023

Background

Data on the long-term oncological outcomes of patients who undergo conversion surgery (CS) in gastric cancer (GC) patients with peritoneal metastasis (PM) are limited.

Methods

GC patients with PM who received intraperitoneal (ip) and systemic chemotherapy between April 2015 and January 2021 were enrolled. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify risk factors associated with survival. Clinicopathological and survival outcomes were compared between those with CS and those without CS (NCS). The paclitaxel (PTX) plus tegafur–gimeracil–oteracil potassium capsules (S-1) (PS) + ip PTX and oxaliplatin plus S-1 (SOX) + ip PTX groups were matched in a 1:1 ratio using propensity score matching. Oncological and survival data were collected and analyzed.

Results

A total of 540 patients who received ip chemotherapy via subcutaneous port and systemic chemotherapy were analyzed and 268 patients were enrolled, including 113 who underwent CS and 155 who did not. Overall survival (OS) were 27.0 months and 11.8 months in the CS and NCS groups (P < 0.0001), respectively. R0 resection was an independent prognostic factor for patients who underwent CS. The OS of patients with or without ovariectomy was 21.3 or 12.0 months (P < 0.0001). No difference of clinicopathological and survival outcomes was found between the PS + ip PTX and SOX + ip PTX groups.

Conclusion

Conversion therapy is safe and adverse events were manageable. CS improves the survival of GC patients with PM after ip and systemic chemotherapy. R0 is an important prognostic factor. Furthermore, outcomes are comparable between the PS + ip PTX and SOX + ip PTX groups.
Machine learning assisted feature identification and prediction of hemodynamic endpoints using computed tomography in patients with CTEPH
Authors: Gawlitza Joshua , Endres Sophie , Fries Peter , Graf Markus , Wilkens Heinrike , Stroeder Jonas , Buecker Arno , Massmann Alexander , Ziegelmayer Sebastian
Published: December 2023

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a rare but potentially curable cause of pulmonary hypertension (PH). Currently PH is diagnosed by right heart catheterisation. Computed tomography (CT) is used for ruling out other causes and operative planning. This study aims to evaluate importance of different quantitative/qualitative imaging features and develop a supervised machine learning (ML) model to predict hemodynamic risk groups. 127 Patients with diagnosed CTEPH who received preoperative right heart catheterization and thoracic CTA examinations (39 ECG-gated; 88 non-ECG gated) were included. 19 qualitative/quantitative imaging features and 3 hemodynamic parameters [mean pulmonary artery pressure, right atrial pressure (RAP), pulmonary artery oxygen saturation (PA SaO2)] were gathered. Diameter-based CT features were measured in axial and adjusted multiplane reconstructions (MPR). Univariate analysis was performed for qualitative and quantitative features. A random forest algorithm was trained on imaging features to predict hemodynamic risk groups. Feature importance was calculated for all models. Qualitative and quantitative parameters showed no significant differences between ECG and non-ECG gated CTs. Depending on reconstruction plane, five quantitative features were significantly different, but mean absolute difference between parameters (MPR vs. axial) was 0.3 mm with no difference in correlation with hemodynamic parameters. Univariate analysis showed moderate to strong correlation for multiple imaging features with hemodynamic parameters. The model achieved an AUC score of 0.82 for the mPAP based risk stratification and 0.74 for the PA SaO2 risk stratification. Contrast agent retention in hepatic vein, mosaic attenuation pattern and the ratio right atrium/left ventricle were the most important features among other parameters. Quantitative and qualitative imaging features of reconstructions correlate with hemodynamic parameters in preoperative CTEPH patients—regardless of MPR adaption. Machine learning based analysis of preoperative imaging features can be used for non-invasive risk stratification. Qualitative features seem to be more important than previously anticipated.
Spatial Characterization of Wetting in Porous Media Using Local Lattice-Boltzmann Simulations
Authors: Erfani Hamidreza , Haghani Reza , McClure James , Boek Edo , Berg Carl Fredrik
Published: December 2023

Wettability is one of the critical parameters affecting multiphase flow in porous media. The wettability is determined by the affinity of fluids to the rock surface, which varies due to factors such as mineral heterogeneity, roughness, ageing, and pore-space geometry. It is well known that wettability varies spatially in natural rocks, and it is still generally considered a constant parameter in pore-scale simulation studies. The accuracy of pore-scale simulation of multiphase flow in porous media is undermined by such inadequate wettability models. The advent of in situ visualization techniques, e.g. X-ray imaging and microtomography, enables us to characterize the spatial distribution of wetting more accurately. There are several approaches for such characterization. Most include the construction of a meshed surface of the interface surfaces in a segmented X-ray image and are known to have significant errors arising from insufficient resolution and surface-smoothing algorithms. This work presents a novel approach for spatial determination of wetting properties using local lattice-Boltzmann simulations. The scheme is computationally efficient as the segmented X-ray image is divided into subdomains before conducting the lattice-Boltzmann simulations, enabling fast simulations. To test the proposed method, it was applied to two synthetic cases with known wettability and three datasets of imaged fluid distributions. The wettability map was obtained for all samples using local lattice-Boltzmann calculations on trapped ganglia and optimization on surface affinity parameters. The results were quantitatively compared with a previously developed geometrical contact angle determination method. The two synthetic cases were used to validate the results of the developed workflow, as well as to compare the wettability results with the geometrical analysis method. It is shown that the developed workflow accurately characterizes the wetting state in the synthetic porous media with an acceptable uncertainty and is better to capture extreme wetting conditions. For the three datasets of imaged fluid distributions, our results show that the obtained contact angle distributions are consistent with the geometrical method. However, the obtained contact angle distributions tend to have a narrower span and are considered more realistic compared to the geometrical method. Finally, our results show the potential of the proposed scheme to efficiently obtain wettability maps of porous media using X-ray images of multiphase fluid distributions. The developed workflow can help for more accurate characterization of the wettability map in the porous media using limited experimental data, and hence more accurate digital rock analysis of multiphase flow in porous media.
Dispersion in Shallow Moment Equations
Authors: Scholz Ullika , Kowalski Julia , Torrilhon Manuel
Published: December 2023

Shallow moment models are extensions of the hyperbolic shallow water equations. They admit variations in the vertical profile of the horizontal velocity. This paper introduces a non-hydrostatic pressure to this framework and shows the systematic derivation of dimensionally reduced dispersive equation systems which still hold information on the vertical profiles of the flow variables. The derivation from a set of balance laws is based on a splitting of the pressure followed by a same-degree polynomial expansion of the velocity and pressure fields in a vertical direction. Dimensional reduction is done via Galerkin projections with weak enforcement of the boundary conditions at the bottom and at the free surface. The resulting equation systems of order zero and one are presented in linear and nonlinear forms for Legendre basis functions and an analysis of dispersive properties is given. A numerical experiment shows convergence towards the resolved reference model in the linear stationary case and demonstrates the reconstruction of vertical profiles.
Mungo Park's Ghost
Authors: Kennedy Dane
Published: December 2023

In 1816 the British sent two large, ambitious expeditions to Africa, one to follow the Niger River to its outlet, the other to trace the Congo River to its source. Their shared goal was to complete the unfinished mission of Mungo Park, who had disappeared during a journey to determine whether the Niger and the Congo were the same river. Both quests ended disastrously and were soon forgotten. Telling the full story of these failed expeditions for the first time, Dane Kennedy argues that they provide fresh insight into British ambitions in Africa. He places them in the contexts of the imperial rivalry with France, the slave trade and the abolition campaign, and the independent power wielded by African states and peoples. He also shows that they were haunted by the same sense of hubris that would afflict many of the expeditions that followed. This hubris was Mungo Park's ghost.
Increasing the equitability of data citation in paleontology: capacity building for the big data future
Authors: Smith Jansen A. , Raja Nussaïbah B. , Clements Thomas , Dimitrijević Danijela , Dowding Elizabeth M. , Dunne Emma M. , Gee Bryan M. , Godoy Pedro L. , Lombardi Elizabeth M. , Mulvey Laura P. A. , Nätscher Paulina S. , Reddin Carl J. , Shirley Bryan , Warnock Rachel C. M. , Kocsis Ádám T.
Published: December 2023

Data compilations expand the scope of research; however, data citation practice lags behind advances in data use. It remains uncommon for data users to credit data producers in professionally meaningful ways. In paleontology, databases like the Paleobiology Database (PBDB) enable assessment of patterns and processes spanning millions of years, up to global scale. The status quo for data citation creates an imbalance wherein publications drawing data from the PBDB receive significantly more citations (median: 4.3 ± 3.5 citations/year) than the publications producing the data (1.4 ± 1.3 citations/year). By accounting for data reuse where citations were neglected, the projected citation rate for data-provisioning publications approached parity (4.2 ± 2.2 citations/year) and the impact factor of paleontological journals (n = 55) increased by an average of 13.4% (maximum increase = 57.8%) in 2019. Without rebalancing the distribution of scientific credit, emerging “big data” research in paleontology—and science in general—is at risk of undercutting itself through a systematic devaluation of the work that is foundational to the discipline.
Genome analysis of triple phages that curtails MDR E. coli with ML based host receptor prediction and its evaluation
Authors: Unnikrishnan Vineetha K , Sundaramoorthy Niranjana Sri , Nair Veena G. , Ramaiah Kavi Bharathi , Roy Jean Sophy , Rajendran Malarvizhi , Srinath Sneha , Kumar Santhosh , S Prakash Sankaran , S Suma Mohan , Nagarajan Saisubramanian
Published: December 2023

Infections by multidrug resistant bacteria (MDR) are becoming increasingly difficult to treat and alternative approaches like phage therapy, which is unhindered by drug resistance, are urgently needed to tackle MDR bacterial infections. During phage therapy phage cocktails targeting different receptors are likely to be more effective than monophages. In the present study, phages targeting carbapenem resistant clinical isolate of E. coli U1007 was isolated from Ganges River (U1G), Cooum River (CR) and Hospital waste water (M). Capsid architecture discerned using TEM identified the phage families as Podoviridae for U1G, Myoviridae for CR and Siphoviridae for M phage. Genome sequencing showed the phage genomes varied in size U1G (73,275 bp) CR (45,236 bp) and M (45,294 bp). All three genomes lacked genes encoding tRNA sequence, antibiotic resistant or virulent genes. A machine learning (ML) based multi-class classification model using Random Forest, Logistic Regression, and Decision Tree were employed to predict the host receptor targeted by receptor binding protein of all 3 phages and the best performing algorithm Random Forest predicted LPS O antigen, LamB or OmpC for U1G; FhuA, OmpC for CR phage; and FhuA, LamB, TonB or OmpF for the M phage. OmpC was validated as receptor for U1G by physiological experiments. In vivo intramuscular infection study in zebrafish showed that cocktail of dual phages (U1G + M) along with colsitin resulted in a significant 3.5 log decline in cell counts. Our study highlights the potential of ML tool to predict host receptor and proves the utility of phage cocktail to restrict E. coli U1007 in vivo.