bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review on Microencapsulated Phase‐Change Materials: Preparation, Photothermal Conversion Performance, Energy Storage, and Application
Authors: Wang Kewei , Yan Ting , Meng Liangchen , Pan Weiguo
Published: September 2023

The leakage‐prone disadvantage of pure phase change materials (PCMs) has hampered their practical application, and the encapsulation technology of PCMs has been favored for its ability to mitigate leakage. Combining large solar reserves with energy storage technology can increase the utilization of renewable energy and broaden the application of microencapsulated phase change materials (MEPCMs) in the field of solar energy. First, the fabrication technologies of MEPCMs, which include physical, chemical, and physical–chemical methods, have been comprehensively elaborated in this article. Second, the characteristics of different methods are also summarized. Then, the influences of MEPCMs properties on their thermal storage capacity have been clarified. This work shows the supercooling, phase separation, mechanical properties, encapsulation efficiency, and photothermal conversion performance of MEPCMs. Modification of MEPCMs by metal materials and their oxides, carbon, and semiconductor materials to improve the light absorption capacity. In addition, two‐dimensional materials such as MXene have been widely used to improve the photothermal properties of MEPCMs. Finally, the applications of MEPCMs in the construction, slurry, textile, and food industries are discussed. This work can provide some useful guidance for the optimization strategies of the photothermal conversion performance and practical applications of MEPCMs.
Continuous Heating/Cooling Transformation Kinetics of a Novel CrNiMoV Steel for Large Structural Parts
Authors: Zhang Mei , Zhang Bendao , Tian Yibo , Cen Qiongying , Wang Yang , Wang Weijun , Hu Chundong , Dong Han
Published: September 2023

Continuous heating transformation (CHT) and continuous cooling transformation (CCT) characteristics as well as phase transformation kinetics of a novel Cr–Ni–Mo–V steel for large structural parts are studied using a Gleeble‐3500 thermal–mechanical simulator. CCT curves are obtained. The results show that carbides in initial structure can be completely dissolved during CHT as the heating rates are not greater than 0.2 °C s−1. The final microstructure exhibits obvious sensitivity to cooling rate. It contains martensite with or without bainite. Besides, kinetic models of austenitization are established, and it is confirmed that diffusion is the major mechanism of austenitic transformation in steel during CHT. Meanwhile, bainitic phase transformations kinetic model is developed based on the J–M–A model. The fitted Avrami indexes n combined with transmission electron microscope reveal that the bainite nucleation sites of the steel are mainly located at the prior austenite grain boundaries, and the growth of bainite grains mainly follows a 2D mode. The kinetics of martensitic transformation is better modeled based on the K–M equation. A deep understanding of kinetics and microstructure characteristics during CHT and CCT is of great significance to regulate the final performance of the novel steel under development.
Effects of the Intermediate Precooling Parameters on the Mechanical Properties of a Tailored Press‐Hardened Component in Advanced High‐Strength Steel
Authors: Palmieri Maria Emanuela , Tricarico Luigi
Published: September 2023

In recent years, several automotive companies have studied new tailored tempering technologies for press hardening process to produce structural components with tailored mechanical properties, that is, component with both soft zones to absorb energy and hard zones to avoid intrusion during an impact. One of these technologies involves a tailored tempering station interposed between the austenitization furnace and the press machine in which classical stamping and quenching phases occur. In the tailored tempering station, areas that are desired to be ductile are cooled, while areas with the final high mechanical properties remain at the complete austenitization temperature. This work investigates this new tailored tempering technology by means of finite‐element models and experimental lab‐scale tests. The aim is understanding the influence of cooling rate and the dwell time in the tempering station (precooling time) on the formability and mechanical and microstructural properties of the stamped part. Two different cooling ways of soft areas are explored: 1) by a cooled mask and 2) by a mask with compressed air. Results indicate that an increase in precooling time leads to greater softening in the ductile region but also leads to formability challenges. These effects are even more pronounced with a higher cooling rate.
Rehabilitation of post‐heated rectangular reinforced concrete columns using different strengthening configuration
Authors: Abadel Aref A.
Published: September 2023

It is common knowledge that increased temperatures have a negative impact on the axial load‐capacity and stiffness of reinforced concrete (RC) rectangular columns. This is something that is commonly acknowledged. For the purpose of restoring the axial capacity and stiffness of heat‐damaged RC columns, it is absolutely essential to carefully pick a suitable method for strengthening and repairing the columns. This research paper investigates the performance of various strengthening methods, such as the use of carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer (CFRP) jackets with near‐surface mounted (NSM) steel bars and a combination of welded wire mesh (WWM) and CFRP strengthening techniques, for the rehabilitation of RC rectangular columns that have been damaged due to exposure to high temperatures. Specifically, the paper focuses on the performance of these methods in relation to the rehabilitation of RC rectangular columns. There were three groups of tested RC rectangular columns: pre‐heated and unstrengthened, post‐heated and unstrengthened, and post‐heated and strengthened. Over a period of 3 h, 600°C was applied to the heated columns. Both a scheme utilizing a combination of unidirectional CFRP strips and NSM steel bars and another utilizing a combination of unidirectional CFRP strips and WWM were evaluated. Axial compression tests were performed on each column until failure occurred. The experimental test outcomes revealed that exposure to high elevated temperatures led to a decrease in the axial load‐carrying capacity of 38.6% and a decrease of 75.9% in initial stiffness, compared to unheated RC columns. Both strengthening schemes proved effective in restoring and surpassing the initial load‐carrying capacity of undamaged RC rectangular columns by an average of 35%. Notably, the combination of CFRP strips and WWM exhibited superior performance in restoring the initial stiffness of post‐heated RC rectangular columns, representing a novel finding. The strengthening scheme employing WWM and CFRP recovered 61.3% of the lost axial strength caused by high temperature, while the NSM/CFRP scheme restored 34.5% of the lost axial strength. In addition, the utilization of NSM in combination with CFRP strips as well as utilization of the WWM and CFRP systems leads to stiffness enhancement of 52.1% and 123.7%, respectively, when compared to post‐heated and unstrengthened RC columns. However, the study's findings have clearly shown that combination of WWM and CFRP strips is efficient in enhancing the strength of heated and unheated damage RC beams.
A real proton‐conductive, robust, and cobalt‐free cathode for proton‐conducting solid oxide fuel cells with exceptional performance
Authors: Yin Yanru , Xiao Dongdong , Wu Shuai , Da'as Eman Husni , Gu Yueyuan , Bi Lei
Published: September 2023

The development of proton, oxygen‐ion, and electron mixed conducting materials, known as triple‐conduction materials, as cathodes for proton‐conducting solid oxide fuel cells (H‐SOFCs) is highly desired because they can increase fuel cell performance by extending the reaction active area. Although oxygen‐ion and electron conductions can be measured directly, proton conduction in these oxides is usually estimated indirectly. Because of the instability of cathode materials in a reducing environment, direct measurement of proton conduction in cathode oxide is difficult. The La0.8Sr0.2Sc0.5Fe0.5O3–δ (LSSF) cathode material is proposed for H‐SOFCs in this study, which can survive in an H2‐containing atmosphere, allowing measurement of proton conduction in LSSF by hydrogen permeation technology. Furthermore, LSSF is discovered to be a unique proton and electron mixed‐conductive material with limited oxygen diffusion capability that is specifically designed for H‐SOFCs. The LSSF is an appealing cathode choice for H‐SOFCs due to its outstanding CO2 tolerance and matched thermal expansion coefficient, producing a record‐high performance of 2032 mW cm−2 at 700°C and good long‐term stability under operational conditions. The current study reveals that a new type of proton–electron mixed conducting cathode can provide promising performance for H‐SOFCs, opening the way for developing high‐performance cathodes.
Multi‐modality imaging characteristics of a surgically confirmed emphysematous torsion of papillary process of the caudate liver lobe and pneumoperitoneum in a dog
Authors: Jerabkova Pavla , Krekis Alexander , Thompson Daniel , Hughes Jonathan
Published: September 2023

A 7‐year‐old, female, spayed dog presented with a 1‐week history of vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy. Abdominal radiographs and ultrasound revealed bicavitary effusion, a large, gas‐cavitated, soft tissue mass in the region of the papillary process of the caudate lobe of the liver, with associated peritonitis and mild pneumoperitoneum. The location of the mass and gas cavitation were confirmed on computed tomography. The absence of vascular and parenchymal contrast enhancement and the distortion of the caudal vena cava was consistent with hilar torsion of the papillary process of the liver. The torsion was surgically confirmed and excised, and ischemic necrosis was histologically confirmed. The patient fully recovered following surgery.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Authors: Schoenmaker Dirk , Schramade Willem
Published: September 2023

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are very large investments in which a company absorbs another company, which can dramatically change the profile of a company’s assets. This chapter discuss various types of M&A and the motives behind them, along with calculation examples. Just as in any other investment decision, the financial sanity of M&A activity can be assessed with the NPV method. However, the numbers tend to be much bigger than in ordinary capex decisions, hence the stakes are bigger as well. This makes behavioural issues even more problematic, as they can result in very large overvaluation, overinvestment, and value destruction. Likewise, if not properly understood and considered, environmental (E) and social (S) issues can have similar effects as the abovementioned behavioural issues and reduce the company’s financial value. While the effects of E and S issues on M&A valuation are increasingly understood, scarce academic attention is given to the valuation of E and S in their own right in M&A deals. An M&A deal can be massively value destructive on E or S, which may justify blocking the deal.
Investment Decision Rules
Authors: Schoenmaker Dirk , Schramade Willem
Published: September 2023

When making investment decisions, companies need to be able to compare various investment opportunities. Which ones offer the best value? The first sections of this chapter describe how companies can make such comparisons on a purely financial basis, using the basic investment decision rules of payback period; internal rate of return (IRR); discounted cash flow (DCF); or net present value (NPV) to calculate financial value (FV). We then dive deeper in the calculation of social value (SV) and environmental value (EV). Even with these values known, the big question remains: how to balance them? What decision rules should be followed? We present three approaches to combining NPV with social (S) and environmental (E) factors: (1) the constrained PV (with S & E as a budget); (2) the expanded PV (with SV & EV in monetary values); and (3) the integrated PV (with SV & EV explicitly balanced). In all three approaches F, S, and E all weigh in and can be prioritised—ideally informed by the company’s purpose and value creation profile.
Range-Restricted and Horn Interpolation through Clausal Tableaux
Authors: Wernhard Christoph
Published: September 2023

We show how variations of range-restriction and also the Horn property can be passed from inputs to outputs of Craig interpolation in first-order logic. The proof system is clausal tableaux, which stems from first-order ATP. Our results are induced by a restriction of the clausal tableau structure, which can be achieved in general by a proof transformation, also if the source proof is by resolution/paramodulation. Primarily addressed applications are query synthesis and reformulation with interpolation. Our methodical approach combines operations on proof structures with the immediate perspective of feasible implementation through incorporating highly optimized first-order provers.
CoNP Complexity for Combinations of Non-normal Modal Logics
Authors: Dalmonte Tiziano , Mazzullo Andrea
Published: September 2023

We study the complexity of the validity/derivability problem for combinations of non-normal modal logics in the form of logic fusions, possibly extended with simple interaction axioms. We first present cut-free sequent calculi for these logic combinations. Then, we introduce hypersequent calculi with invertible rules, and show that they allow for a coNP proof search procedure. In the last part of the paper, we consider the case of combinations of logics sharing a universal modality. Using the hypersequent calculi, we show that these logics remain coNP-complete, and also provide an equivalent axiomatisation for them.
Non-Classical Logics in Satisfiability Modulo Theories
Authors: Eisenhofer Clemens , Alassaf Ruba , Rawson Michael , Kovács Laura
Published: September 2023

We show that tableau methods for satisfiability in non-classical logics can be supported naturally in SMT solving via the framework of user-propagators. By way of demonstration, we implement the description logic $$\mathcal {ALC}$$ in the Z3 SMT solver and show that working with user-propagators allows us to significantly outperform encodings to first-order logic with relatively little effort. We promote user-propagators for creating solvers for non-classical logics based on tableau calculi.
Proof-Theoretic Semantics for Intuitionistic Multiplicative Linear Logic
Authors: Gheorghiu Alexander V. , Gu Tao , Pym David J.
Published: September 2023

This work is the first exploration of proof-theoretic semantics for a substructural logic. It focuses on the base-extension semantics (B-eS) for intuitionistic multiplicative linear logic ($$\mathrm IMLL$$). The starting point is a review of Sandqvist’s B-eS for intuitionistic propositional logic (IPL), for which we propose an alternative treatment of conjunction that takes the form of thegeneralizedelimination rule for the connective. The resulting semantics is shown to be sound and complete. This motivates our main contribution, a B-eS for$$\mathrm IMLL$$, in which the definitions of the logical constants all take the form of their elimination rule and for which soundness and completeness are established.
A Naive Prover for First-Order Logic: A Minimal Example of Analytic Completeness
Authors: From Asta Halkjær , Villadsen Jørgen
Published: September 2023

The analytic technique for proving completeness gives a very operational perspective: build a countermodel to the unproved formula from a failed proof attempt in your calculus. We have to be careful, however, that the proof attempt did not fail because our strategy in finding it was flawed. Overcoming this concern requires designing a prover. We design and formalize in Isabelle/HOL a sequent calculus prover for first-order logic with functions. We formalize soundness and completeness theorems using an existing framework and extract executable code to Haskell. The crucial idea is to move complexity from the prover itself to a stream of instructions that it follows. The result serves as a minimal example of the analytic technique, a naive prover for first-order logic, and a case study in formal verification.
A Cut-Free, Sound and Complete Russellian Theory of Definite Descriptions
Authors: Indrzejczak Andrzej , Kürbis Nils
Published: September 2023

We present a sequent calculus for first-order logic with lambda terms and definite descriptions. The theory formalised by this calculus is essentially Russellian, but avoids some of its well known drawbacks and treats definite description as genuine terms. A constructive proof of the cut elimination theorem and a Henkin-style proof of completeness are the main results of this contribution.
Towards Proof-Theoretic Formulation of the General Theory of Term-Forming Operators
Authors: Indrzejczak Andrzej
Published: September 2023

Term-forming operators (tfos), like iota- or epsilon-operator, are technical devices applied to build complex terms in formal languages. Although they are very useful in practice their theory is not well developed. In the paper we provide a proof-theoretic formulation of the general approach to tfos provided independently by several authors like Scott, Hatcher, Corcoran, and compare it with an approach proposed later by Tennant. Eventually it is shown how the general theory can be applied to specific areas like Quine’s set theory NF.
Lemmas: Generation, Selection, Application
Authors: Rawson Michael , Wernhard Christoph , Zombori Zsolt , Bibel Wolfgang
Published: September 2023

Noting that lemmas are a key feature of mathematics, we engage in an investigation of the role of lemmas in automated theorem proving. The paper describes experiments with a combined system involving learning technology that generates useful lemmas for automated theorem provers, demonstrating improvement for several representative systems and solving a hard problem not solved by any system for twenty years. By focusing on condensed detachment problems we simplify the setting considerably, allowing us to get at the essence of lemmas and their role in proof search.
New Clues about light sterile neutrinos: preference for models with damping effects in global fits
Authors: Hardin J. M. , Martinez-Soler I. , Diaz A. , Jin M. , Kamp N. W. , Argüelles C. A. , Conrad J. M. , Shaevitz M. H.
Published: September 2023

Abstract

This article reports global fits of short-baseline neutrino data to oscillation models involving light sterile neutrinos. In the commonly-used 3+1 plane wave model, there is a well-known 4.9σ tension between data sets sensitive to appearance versus disappearance of neutrinos. We find that models that damp the oscillation prediction for the reactor data sets, especially at low energy, substantially improve the fits and reduce the tension. We consider two such scenarios. The first scenario introduces the quantum mechanical wavepacket effect that accounts for the source size in reactor experiments into the 3+1 model. We find that inclusion of the wavepacket effect greatly improves the overall fit compared to a three-neutrino model by ∆χ2/dof = 61.1/4 (7.1σ improvement) with best-fit ∆m2 = 1.4 eV2 and wavepacket length of 67 fm. The internal tension is reduced to 3.4σ. If reactor-data only is fit, then the wavepacket preferred length is 91 fm (> 20 fm at 99% CL). The second model introduces oscillations involving sterile flavor and allows the decay of the heaviest, mostly sterile mass state, ν4. This model introduces a damping term similar to the wavepacket effect, but across all experiments. Compared to a three-neutrino fit, this has a ∆χ2/dof = 60.6/4 (7σ improvement) with preferred ∆m2 = 1.4 eV2 and decay Γ = 0.35 eV. The internal tension is reduced to 3.7σ.

For many years, the reactor event rates have been observed to have structure that deviates from prediction. Community discussion has focused on an excess compared to prediction observed at 5 MeV; however, other deviations are apparent. This structure has L dependence that is well-fit by the damped models. Before assuming this points to new physics, we urge closer examination of systematic effects that could lead to this L dependence.
Parallel algorithms for power circuits and the word problem of the Baumslag group
Authors: Mattes Caroline , Weiß Armin
Published: September 2023

Power circuits have been introduced in 2012 by Myasnikov, Ushakov and Won as a data structure for non-elementarily compressed integers supporting the arithmetic operations addition and $$(x,y) \mapsto x\cdot 2^y$$

(
x
,
y
)

↦
x
·

2
y

. The same authors applied power circuits to give a polynomial time solution to the word problem of the Baumslag group, which has a non-elementary Dehn function.

In this work, we examine power circuits and the word problem of the
Baumslag group under parallel complexity aspects. In particular, we
establish that the word problem of the Baumslag group can be solved
in NC$$\textemdash$$
—
even though one of the essential steps is to compare two
integers given by power circuits and this, in general, is shown to
be P-complete. The key observation is that the depth of the
occurring power circuits is logarithmic and such power circuits can
be compared in NC.
Arthroscopic capsular release for frozen shoulder: when etiology matters
Authors: Galasso Olimpio , Mercurio Michele , Luciano Francesco , Mancuso Claudia , Gasparini Giorgio , De Benedetto Massimo , Orlando Nicola , Castricini Roberto
Published: September 2023

Purpose

No therapeutic intervention is universally accepted for frozen shoulder, and the most effective management to restore motion and diminish pain has yet to be defined. The aim of this study was to investigate functional and psychological outcomes in patients who underwent arthroscopic capsular release for a frozen shoulder.

Methods

A retrospective study with prospective data collection was conducted with 78 patients suffering from frozen shoulder resistance to conservative treatment. Considering the etiology, there were 36 (46.2%) idiopathic, 31 (39.7%) postoperative, and 11 (14.1%) posttraumatic cases. Preoperatively, each patient was evaluated with the range of motion (ROM) assessment and the Constant‐Murley score (CMS). At follow‐up, the 4‐point subjective satisfaction scale (SSS), the ROM assessment, the SF‐12 questionnaire, the numerical rating scale (NRS) for the subjective assessment of pain, the CMS and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were assessed.

Results

After a mean follow‐up of 54.2 ± 22.3 months, ROM and CMS showed a statistically significant improvement between pre‐ and postoperative values (all p < 0.001). Before surgery, the mean CMS was 36.9% that of sex‐ and age‐matched healthy individuals, and all patients showed a CMS lower than the normative data. At the final follow‐up visit, the mean CMS was 99.9% that of sex‐ and age‐matched healthy individuals, and 49 (62.8%) patients showed a CMS equal to or higher than the normative data. The mean increase in the CMS was 56.1 ± 8.3 points. The mean SSS, HADS‐A, HADS‐D, and NRS were 3.7 ± 0.5, 2.5 ± 1.6, 2.2 ± 1.3, and 2.2 ± 1.0, respectively. All patients returned to their previous level of work and sports activity after 2 and 2.5 months, respectively. The multivariate analysis showed the association between a higher postoperative CMS and the idiopathic etiology of a frozen shoulder (p = 0.004, β = 3.971). No intraoperative complications occurred. Postoperatively, four patients (5.1%) were treated with intra‐articular steroid injections to manage residual symptoms. One patient (1.3%) with a postoperative frozen shoulder showed persistent symptoms and underwent a new successful arthroscopic capsular release.

Conclusion

High patient satisfaction and statistically significant ROM and CMS recovery can be achieved after arthroscopic capsular release to manage frozen shoulder. Better functional outcomes are expected when the etiology is idiopathic. Results can help surgeons identify the patients who will most benefit from surgery and should be discussed with the patient.

Level of evidence

III.
Alternative treatment modality for severe aplastic anemia in a resource-limited setting: a single-institution prospective cohort study from Upper Egypt
Authors: Youssef Mervat A M , Ghazaly Mohammed H , Abdelfattah Mai A
Published: September 2023

This study compared the efficacy and safety of CsA monotherapy with eltrombopag (E-PAG) + CsA combined treatment in children with severe aplastic anemia (SAA). The study including 30 children had SAA. Ten were a retrospective cohort treated with CsA monotherapy. The other 20 were prospective cohort received E-PAG + CsA. All patients were evaluated for partial (PR) and complete (CR) hematological response at 3, 6, and 12 months. overall response (OR), overall survival rates (OS), and treatment safety. OR for the E-PAG patients was 40% after 3 months of therapy. At 6 months, this had increased to 75% with significantly higher CR rate (40%) than in the CsA group (p = 0.0001). After a year of treatment, the CR for the E-PAG + CsA regimen had increased to 50% and the OR to 85%, compared to 20% in the CsA group (p = 0.0001). The OS at 12 months was 100% in the E-PAG+ CsA group compared to 80% in the CsA cohort. At 24 months, the OS in the E-PAG + CsA group was 90%. In conclusion, E-PAG+ CsA was found to be a safe and effective alternative treatment for children with SAA particularly in countries with limited resources.
The novel prognostic nomograms for predicting cancer-specific survival and overall survival in mixed medullary and follicular cell carcinoma: A SEER-based study
Authors: Li Yonghao , Guo Tiantian , Gao Xuefei , Liu Jing
Published: September 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate independent predictors of prognosis in patients with mixed medullary and follicular cell carcinoma (MMFCC) and to establish the novel prognostic nomograms in the academic community for 3-, 5-, and 10 year CSS and OS in patients with MMFCC.

Methods

Demographic information, clinicopathological characteristics, treatment information, and survival status information of 200 patients with MMFCC and 6615 patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) from 2000 to 2020 in the SEER database were retrospectively analyzed. Independent predictors of prognosis in MMFCC patients were derived using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses after relevant comparisons based on pathologic typing. On this basis, we developed and validated clinical prognostic nomograms and risk-stratified the patient population.

Results

In this study, the clinical information of 200 patients with MMFCC was compared with that of 5947 patients with MTC (NOS) and 668 patients with MTC with amyloid stroma, and there was a significant difference in the relevant variables among the three, with the CSS being 88.5%, 87.5%, and 90.9%, and the OS being 76.5%, 75.4%, and 83.8%. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses yielded that age at diagnosis, presence of distant metastases, thyroidectomy scope, and lymph node dissection status were significantly correlated with the prognosis of patients (P < 0.05), and were independent predictors of CSS and OS for patients with MMFCC, and the Kaplan–Meier survival curves plotted by these factors demonstrated their predictive power for the prognosis of patients with MMFCC. The concordance index of the prognostic nomograms of CSS and OS established on this basis was 0.838 and 0.794, respectively, and the time-dependent area under curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis curve showed that the model had good discriminative ability, accuracy, and clinical applicability.

Conclusions

In this study, we concluded that there are large differences between MMFCC and MTC in terms of demographic information, clinicopathological characteristics, treatment information, and survival status information, and we constructed the novel prognostic nomograms for 3-, 5-, and 10 year CSS and OS for patients with MMFCC with risk stratification, which will help clinicians to develop individualized protocols for their postoperative treatments and follow-ups.
Rapid provision of maps and volcanological parameters: quantification of the 2021 Etna volcano lava flows through the integration of multiple remote sensing techniques
Authors: Proietti Cristina , De Beni Emanuela , Cantarero Massimo , Ricci Tullio , Ganci Gaetana
Published: September 2023

At active volcanoes recurring eruptive events, erosive processes and collapses modify the edifice morphology and impact monitoring and hazard mitigation. At Etna volcano (Italy) between February and October 2021, 57 paroxysmal events occurred from the South-East Crater (SEC), which is currently its most active summit crater. Strombolian activity and high lava fountains (up to 4 km) fed lava flows towards the east, south and south-west, and caused fallout of ballistics (greater than 1 m in diameter) within 1–2 km from the SEC. The impacted area does not include permanent infrastructure, but it is visited by thousands of tourists. Hence, we rapidly mapped each lava flow before deposits became covered by the next event, for hazard mitigation. The high frequency of the SEC paroxysms necessitated integration of data from three remote sensing platforms with different spatial resolutions. Satellite (Sentinel-2 MultiSpectral Instrument, PlanetScope, Skysat and Landsat-8 Operational Land Imager) and drone images (visible and thermal) were processed and integrated to extract digital surface models and orthomosaics. Thermal images acquired by a permanent network of cameras of the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia were orthorectified using the latest available digital surface model. This multi-sensor analysis allowed compilation of a geodatabase reporting the main geometrical parameters for each lava flow. A posteriori analysis allowed quantification of bulk volumes for the lava flows and the SEC changes and of the dense rock equivalent volume of erupted magma. The analysis of drone-derived digital surface models enabled assessment of the ballistics’ distribution. The developed methodology enabled rapidly and accurate characterisation of frequently occurring effusive events for near real-time risk assessment and hazard communication.
Regular assessment of serum vascular endothelial growth factor levels to monitor POEMS syndrome
Authors: Gentile Francesco , Terenghi Fabrizia , Doneddu Pietro Emiliano , De Lorenzo Alberto , Giannotta Claudia , Giordano Andrea , Mazza Rita , Nozza Andrea , Nobile-Orazio Eduardo
Published: September 2023

Background

To investigate the utility of regular serum VEGF (sVEGF) levels assessment in the monitoring of POEMS syndrome.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed data of 30 patients with POEMS syndrome whose sVEGF was tested regularly every 6 months. sVEGF levels after treatment were measured and correlated with disability (Overall Neuropathy Limitations Scale, ONLS), clinical impairment (measured with the modified Clinical Response Evaluation Scale, mCRES), and relapse-free survival. The ability of sVEGF to predict disease flares during remission and refractory disease was also analysed.

Results

Patients with normalised serum VEGF levels (< 1000 pg/ml) at 6 months showed prolonged relapse-free survival (at 3-year 94% for complete VEGF response, 57% partial, 0% none, p < 0.001) and greater later clinical improvement (median ΔmCRES complete VEGF response -5 vs partial -4, p = 0.019, and vs no VEGF response -2, p = 0.006). After remission, the sensitivity of 6-month sVEGF monitoring in predicting clinical relapse was 58% with a specificity of 100%. In patients refractory to treatment, the sensitivity in predicting further clinical worsening was 15%. In addition, in 25% of the patients in remission and 16% of those refractory to therapy, sVEGF levels only increased at the time of relapse.

Conclusions

Regular sVEGF assessment is a valid biomarker in the prediction of disease reactivation in POEMS syndrome and was particularly useful during the phase of remission.
Aggregation pheromone interrupts death feigning in the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Ishikawa Motoya , Matsumura Kentarou , Miyatake Takahisa
Published: September 2023

Death feigning is a behavior in which a prey is rendered motionless due to stimulation or threat by a predator. This anti-predator defense mechanism has been observed across a wide range of animal taxa and is considered adaptive. However, long durations of death feigning can decrease opportunities for feeding and reproduction, and therefore is a fitness cost as compared to environments without predators. Because death feigning is thought to be affected by the balance between survival and other fitness costs, selection pressure may drive individuals who are capable of plastic changes in the intensity of death feigning. Pheromones, which are important semiochemicals that affect foraging and reproductive success, may be one of the factors influencing the intensity of death-feigning behavior. In this study, we investigated the effect of an aggregation pheromone on the death-feigning behavior of the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum. We found that beetles exposed to the pheromone showed a significantly shorter duration of death feigning than beetles that were not exposed to the pheromone. Therefore, our results suggest that an aggregation pheromone can plasticly alter the death-feigning behavior in T. castaneum.
Assessing the relation between financial performance and long-term bank loan interest rates for healthcare providers in the Netherlands: a panel data analysis
Authors: Wackers Erik , Smit Rick , Stadhouders Niek , Jeurissen Patrick
Published: September 2023

The Dutch health system is financed predominantly by commercial bank loans, especially after the market-oriented reform in 2006, when government investment guarantees were abandoned. Commercial capital markets were envisaged to improve efficient capital allocation and management. We analyzed the effects of commercial bank loans on interest rates, investments and allocative efficiency in the Dutch healthcare sector. We aimed to explain variation in interest rates by financial performance of healthcare providers, hypothesizing that the reform reduced interest rates for financially well-performing providers. Using financial data from publicly available annual reports, we explored the effect of financial performance on long-term loan interest rates through pooled linear regressions. Our data showed that financial reserves have steadily increased, although profitability margins have declined since 2011–2013 (depending on the sector). While nominal interest rates have generally declined since 2006, the risk surplus on healthcare loans has steadily increased. Furthermore, we observed no significant relation between the financial performance of healthcare providers and interest rates on capital loans. Maintaining additional financial reserves provided no apparent benefit to capital costs. This suggests that healthcare providers may consider whether financial reserves should be maintained at current levels or can better be used for direct investments. Moreover, healthcare policymakers should evaluate whether the increase in risk surplus combined with an apparent lack of reward for financial scrutiny is a desired outcome of the reform.
Modified conformal extensions
Authors: Hammerl Matthias , Sagerschnig Katja , Šilhan Josef , Žádník Vojtěch
Published: September 2023

We present a geometric construction and characterization of 2n-dimensional split-signature conformal structures endowed with a twistor spinor with integrable kernel. The construction is regarded as a modification of the conformal Patterson–Walker metric construction forn-dimensional projective manifolds. The characterization is presented in terms of the twistor spinor and an integrability condition on the conformal Weyl curvature. We further derive a complete description of Einstein metrics and infinitesimal conformal symmetries in terms of suitable projective data. Finally, we obtain an explicit geometrically constructed Fefferman–Graham ambient metric and show the vanishing of theQ-curvature.
An Estimation Formula for Resonance Frequency Using Sex and Height for Healthy Individuals and Patients with Incurable Cancers
Authors: Hasuo Hideaki , Mori Keita , Matsuoka Hiromichi , Sakuma Hiroko , Ishikawa Hideki
Published: September 2023

Resonance frequency breathing is a technique that involves breathing that maximizes heart rate variability. It is specific to individuals and is determined through a procedure taking approximately 30 min, using a procedure that is often best carried out at specialized medical institutions. This is a physical and time-consuming burden because of hospital visits and measurements, particularly for patients with cancer. Therefore it would be beneficial if a procedure can be found to determine resonance frequency from the patient’s physical characteristics, without the need for special assessment procedures. This exploratory cross-sectional study examined the correlation between individual characteristics and resonance frequency in healthy volunteers. Multiple regression analysis was performed with the measured resonance frequency as the target variable and individual characteristic parameters as explanatory variables. The study aims to build an estimation formula for resonance frequency with some of these parameters and assess its validity. In addition, the validity of the formula’s applicability to patients with incurable cancers is assessed. A total of 122 healthy volunteers and 32 patients with incurable cancers were recruited as participants. The median resonance frequency of 154 participants was six breaths per min. Sex and height were selected as explanatory variables associated with the measured resonance frequency in the volunteers. The estimation formula for resonance frequency using individual characteristics was 17.90—0.07 × height for men and 15.88—0.06 × height for women. Adjusted R-squared values were 0.55 for men and 0.47 for women. When the measured resonance frequency in patients with incurable cancers was six breaths per minute or less, the resonance frequency estimated by this formula was slightly larger than the measured ones. Information on individual characteristics, such as sex and height, which can be easily obtained, was useful to construct an estimation formula for resonance frequency.
Long Non-coding RNA Involved in the Pathophysiology of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Zhong Zikan , Li Xintao , Gao Longzhe , Wu Xiaoyu , Ye Yutong , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zeng Qingye , Zhou Changzuan , Lu Xiaofeng , Wei Yong , Ding Yu , Chen Songwen , Zhou Genqing , Xu Juan , Liu Shaowen
Published: September 2023

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent and chronic cardiovascular disorder associated with various pathophysiological alterations, including atrial electrical and structural remodeling, disrupted calcium handling, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, aberrant energy metabolism, and immune dysregulation. Emerging evidence suggests that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a significant role in the pathogenesis of AF.

Objective

This discussion aims to elucidate the involvement of AF-related lncRNAs, with a specific focus on their role as miRNA sponges that modulate crucial signaling pathways, contributing to the progression of AF. We also address current limitations in AF-related lncRNA research and explore potential future directions in this field. Additionally, we summarize feasible strategies and promising delivery systems for targeting lncRNAs in AF therapy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, targeting AF-related lncRNAs holds substantial promise for future investigations and represents a potential therapeutic avenue for managing AF.
Compressive strength of beech and birch at different moisture contents and temperatures
Authors: Al-musawi Hajir , Huber Christian , Grabner Maximilian , Ungerer Bernhard , Krenke Thomas , Matz Philipp , Teischinger Alfred , Müller Ulrich
Published: September 2023

Owing to increased environmental demands to replace petroleum-derived materials with more environmentally friendly materials, research has been directed towards the potential of using wood in the automotive industry. This study extensively investigates the compressive strength (fc) of two hardwood species (beech and birch) with different anatomical directions, at various moisture and temperature levels, in an attempt to understand the wood’s behaviour during the forming process. The experimental tests were performed at 20, 100 and 140 °C on specimens with five moisture levels, ranging from completely dry to wet conditions. Overall, irrespective of the investigated direction, the measured compressive strength exhibited a clear exponential trend with increasing moisture content over the whole temperature range. This was capitalised on to present a simple predictive equation to roughly estimate the fc of beech and birch in different moisture and temperature conditions by relating to their dry fc at a reference temperature of 20 °C. The proposed approach was compared with other procedures and trends reported in the literature for the effect of moisture and temperature on the fc of wood. Furthermore, the reduction factors for the effect of temperature on the fc of softwoods, as set out in Eurocode 5 (EN 1995-1-2), were discussed in comparison with the present study findings. It was shown that, although the Eurocode approach is conservative, it may still be applicable for estimating the fc of hardwood species.
Detecting image edges in IOT nodes without FPU
Authors: Parsons Lyle , Deng Guang , Ross Robert
Published: September 2023

Internet of Things (IoT) applications continue to expand into new applications with a growing need for image processing on the edge. Many edge devices are resource limited microcontrollers, which significantly prohibits many of the mature image processing algorithms. This paper proposes an approach optimized, for resource constrained processors removing the need for computationally expensive floating point arithmetic by using a framework based on unsigned integer arithmetic for image processing. The proposed framework (OptInt) is demonstrated using edge detection algorithms evaluated on two typical low-power IoT-ready micro-controllers and for comparison a more powerful Raspberry Pi. Results indicate that the OptInt approach for basic image processing in resource constrained devices reduces the computation time as well as the memory requirements, thereby allowing for more edge computing capabilities in these devices. Furthermore, the images produced using OptInt produce results of similar quality to mature edge detection algorithms.
Combining genetic and environmental data to map and model regions of provenance for silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) in Italy
Authors: Marchi Maurizio
Published: September 2023

Regions of provenance for forest reproductive materials are the basis for wise use of forest resources in a changing climate. In this work a modelling framework is proposed for silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) in Italy where genetic clusters described by nuclear microsatellites were combined with high-resolution climatic data. When the genetic clusters were too large or had an uncertain ecological niche expression, an additional subregion division-was evaluated according to a climatic assessment. Subsequently each genecological group (Region of Provenance, RoP) was projected in geographic space separately using species distribution modelling (SDM) procedure under current (1991–2020) and a future climate scenario derived from the 6th assessment report for the period 2041–2070. The final division into nine RoPs was able to explain 77.41% of the total climatic variance, a good trade-off between statistical significance and practical usability. The modelling steps then showed a large degree of ecological overlap between RoPs with some of them occurring in similar ecological environments but characterized by a different genetic structure. When projected at the continental scale, the Italian RoPs were found to be suitable for almost all the current European range of silver fir, with potential expansion in Nordic countries in the future, beyond the current distribution range. The study showed that the combination of genetic and ecological data can be a robust way to proceed in areas where a strong genetic differentiation between populations occurs, such as in Italy. New markers such as SNPs can then be used to detect adaptive traits and drive the selection of provenances for common garden experiments in areas where the SDM modelscurrently extrapolate potential sites outside the current natural range.
Medicaid Expansion and the Mental Health of Spousal Caregivers
Authors: Costa-Font Joan , Raut Nilesh , Van Houtven Courtney H.
Published: September 2023

Health insurance expansions can exert wellbeing effects on individuals who provide informal care to their loved ones, reducing their experience of depression. This study exploits evidence from the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act’s Medicaid expansion (ACA Medicaid) to examine the effects on the mental wellbeing of informal caregivers. Drawing on an event study and a Difference-in-Differences (DID) design we investigate the policy impact of ACA Medicaid using longitudinal evidence (from the Health and Retirement Study, HRS) for low-income individuals aged 64 or below. We find that ACA Medicaid reduced the likelihood of depressive symptoms among spousal caregivers. We document that exposure to ACA Medicaid gives rise to 8.2% points (on average, equivalent to 30% decrease) reduction in the feeling of depression and 8.7% points increase in the feeling of happiness (on average, 11% increase). The estimates are robust to various specifications, are driven by reductions in out of -pocket expenses and labor supply and, as expected, increased after Medicaid uptake. The evidence from falsification tests confirms that the estimated effects are likely due to ACA Medicaid.
Does local injection of long acting corticosteroid improve postoperative outcome of hypospadias repair? A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Abozamel Ahmed , Rammah Ahmed , Abdelwahed Mohammed , Mostafa Amr , AbdelAziz Ahmed Yehia
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To assess the safety and efficacy of local corticosteroid injection during hypospadias repair.

Methods

Between May 2021 and March 2023 children less than 10 years who were admitted for hypospadias repair were divided by random allocation into two groups. We injected local corticosteroid 2 ml proximal to coronal sulcus in group A while in group B we didn’t. All types of hypospadias were included in the study. We excluded patients older than 10 years and those with pre-existing complicated hypospadias (multiple fistulae and multiple surgeries), or bleeding diatheses. Pre-operative, intraoperative and postoperative variables were compared between the two groups.

Results

A total of 120 patients (60 in each group) were enrolled in the study. The mean ages and preoperative variables were not significantly different. The site of hypospadias and the type of surgery were comparable in both groups. (Table) There were no significant differences between both groups regarding average blood loss and operative time in each type of surgical repair. There was a significant higher incidence of intraoperative and postoperative penile oedema in group B (P-value < 0.001) while the incidence of skin discolouration was higher in group A. Postoperative complications, described as Clavian classification, were significantly higher in group B. The incidences of superficial skin infection, meatal stenosis, urethral fistula, and recurrence with the need for redo repair were significantly higher in group B (P-value: 0.002, 0.018, 0.032, and 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

Local corticosteroid injection during hypospadias repair minimize the penile oedema and decrease the incidence of postoperative functional and cosmetic complications.