bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bearing capacity of shallow foundations: a focus on the depth factors in combination with the respective N-factors
Authors: Pantelidis Lysandros 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe ongoing refinement of bearing capacity equations remains pivotal in soil mechanics and foundation engineering, reflecting its critical role in ensuring design efficacy and construction safety. This study conducts a thorough evaluation of classical bearing capacity methods—Terzaghi, Meyerhof, Vesic, and Hansen—and methods included in various design standards, such as EN1997:2004, prEN1997:2023, GEO, AASHTO, FHWA, and API. It explores the performance and applicability of these approaches, identifying areas for potential improvement. In response to identified challenges, the paper proposes the integration of a unified depth factor. This new factor is designed to be applicable across all N-terms, providing a more versatile and accurate tool for bearing capacity predictions. Unlike the original depth factors unique to each method, which may not fully address complex soil and footing conditions, the unified depth factor is developed to enhance prediction accuracy for a wide range of conditions, including both flexible and rigid footings under varying flow rules (ψ = 0 and ψ = φ). This depth factor corrects for modeling errors, emphasizing the importance of pairing the correct set of N-factors with their corresponding depth factor. By offering a singular depth factor that aligns with the outcomes of finite element analysis, this paper not only simplifies the computational process but also enhances the accuracy of bearing capacity predictions across a diverse range of soil conditions and footing types. The comparative analysis, based on finite element analysis, validates the proposed method’s effectiveness, showcasing its potential to significantly refine foundation design practices by comparing it with both traditional and newly developed depth factors.
Artificial Intelligence, data protection and medical device regulations: squaring the circle with a historical perspective in Europe
Authors: Pecchia Leandro , Maccaro A. , Matarrese M. A. G. , Folkvord F. , Fico G. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
This manuscript presents a parallel among important EU legal frameworks, such as the Medical Device Regulations and General Data Protection Regulation and economic-historical challenges faced by European citizens. This parallel offers a prospective for understanding the direction taken by policymakers for forthcoming regulations, such as the European Health Data Space and the AI-Act.

Method
The paper describes key commonalities and differences among those regulations, which may help scholars working with AI in medicine, navigating this articulated legal framework.

Results
The European Union journey started with the European Coal and Steel Community, enforced after the WWII for nurturing European physical reconstruction and as a mean for peacekeeping: without coil it was not possible to transform steel, and with shared control of steel it was not possible for individual member states to build war weapons.

Conclusions
In this century, modern coal are data and modern steel is the AI, which is a crucial enabler for European economy growth and competitiveness, and, potentially, a powerful war weapon. Ensuring a fair data-sharing and correct use of AI is crucial for sustainable development, peace, and democracy in Europe and beyond.
Alleviation of Apple Replant Disease in Sandy Soils by Clay Amendments
Authors: Schimmel Jessica , Gentsch Norman , Boy Jens , Uteau Daniel , Rohr Annmarie-Deetja , Winkelmann Traud , Busnena Belnaser , Liu Benye , Krueger Jiem , Kaufhold Stephan , Rammlmair Dieter , Dultz Stefan , Maurischat Philipp , Beerhues Ludger , Guggenberger Georg 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
The production of apple fruits in orchards or plants in tree nurseries is negatively affected by apple replant disease (ARD), worldwide. Our objective was to develop a method to counteract ARD without applying chemical soil disinfection. We tested if an addition of clays with high release of plant available silicon reduces ARD symptoms and a biochemical effect of silicon on the plant defence reaction occurs.

Methods
In a greenhouse experiment, apple rootstocks ‘M26’ were grown for 8 weeks in a sandy replant soil, a heat disinfected control and a grassland soil (Grass) with and without amendment by bentonite and the clay blend Florisol®TM Profi (6 and 18%). The micromorphology of silica bodies (phytoliths) in roots and the phytoalexin concentration as a measure of the defence reaction of roots were analysed. In a second approach, the gene expression of ARD biomarkers involved in phytoalexin biosynthesis was determined after two weeks.

Results
Normalised gene expression was significantly higher for the ARD soil with clay amendments compared to the ARD variant whereas phytoalexin concentrations were similar. Significantly lower phytoalexin levels were found in the heat disinfected and Grass variant, indicating less defence reaction than in the ARD variant. Clay amendment increased soluble silicon in the substrates and consequently silicon in the epidermis and vascular bundles, indicating high silicon accumulation. Plants grown in ARD and Grass with amendments showed improved growth compared to plants grown in the respective soils without amendments.

Conclusion
The amendment of soil by clays rich in plant available silicon may counteract ARD symptoms.
Perfluorodecalin allows resuspension and prevents sediment solidification of extended-release drug formulations in primary packaging
Authors: Primavessy Daniel , Büttner Sarah , Saaler-Reinhardt Sigrid 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this technical note we show with two simple experiments how Perfluorodecalin (PFD), an injectable perfluorocarbon, can be used as an agent for resuspending microparticulate suspensions in primary packaging containers for injection. Furthermore, we explain how this can be a substantial improvement regarding patient compliance in comparison to the commonly used gas headspace for resuspension. Our experiments are conducted with poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) particles (often used in extended-release pharmaceutical formulations for injection) and in primary packaging that is commonly used in injection devices (glass cartridges). The results show that our method is feasible for resuspension and moreover even sediment solidification/caking is reduced. The differences between the two datasets collected are statistically significant with p < 0.01 in both cases.
Graphical Abstract
Dual threshold input receiver FPGA-only signal digitization method for time-of-flight positron emission tomography
Authors: Ko Guen Bae , Lee Jae Sung 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAs silicon photomultiplier (SiPM)-based time-of-flight (TOF) positron emission tomography (PET) becomes popular, the need for sophisticated PET data acquisition (DAQ) systems is increasing. One promising solution to this challenge is the adoption of a field-programmable gate array (FPGA)-only signal digitization method. In this paper, we propose a new approach to efficiently implement an FPGA-only digitizer. We configured the input/output (IO) port of the FPGA to function as a dual-threshold voltage comparator through the use of simple passive circuitry and heterogeneous IO standards. This configuration overcomes the limitations of existing methods by allowing different threshold voltages for adjacent IO pins, effectively reducing routing complexity and lowering manufacturing costs. An FPGA-only digitizer was implemented by integrating the dual-threshold voltage comparator and FPGA-based time-to-digital converter. By combining the dual-threshold time-over-threshold (TOT) method and curve fitting, precise energy information could be obtained. The performance of the FPGA-only digitizer was assessed using a detector setup comprising a 3 × 3 × 20 mm3 LYSO scintillation crystal and a single pixel SiPM. Using the configured evaluation setup, an energy resolution of 12.5% and a time resolution of 146 ± 9 ps were achieved for a 20 mm scintillation crystal. The dual-threshold TOT implemented using the proposed method showed consistent linearity across an energy range of 100 keV to 600 keV. The proposed method is well-suited for the development of cost-effective DAQ systems in highly integrated TOF PET systems.
Risks of pesticides on aquatic ecosystems and pesticide management effectiveness in Ethiopia: review
Authors: Abaineh A. , Ejigu D. , Atlabachew M. , Dejen E. , Tilahun G. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractDespite their significance in food security, pesticides have the potential to seriously harm both the environment and human health. It may lower the rates of egg hatching, offspring growth, vision, illness resistance, predator avoidance, and overall population survival. Nevertheless, over 75% of Ethiopian farmers lack the literacy to read pesticide labels and comprehend the consequences of pesticide residues on the environment. Pesticides are mixed and applied in close proximity to bodies of water, including sources of drinkable water. Farmers in the country overuse and misuse the pesticides without worrying about its negative effects. Ethiopia failed to adequately enforce its environmental protection laws to reduce the harmful effects of pesticide residues. The aim of this review is to summarize the trends of pesticide use, the effects of pesticide residues on aquatic ecosystems, the pesticide application practices, and the level of enforcement of pesticide laws in the country. The literature search was done using different search engines. Disagreement among policies, absence of liability for overlooking duties, negligence of the pesticide effects on human health and the environment, and a strong commitment to short-term economic growth are reasons for ineffective law enforcement. Regular supply chain inspections, management of pesticide use, and widespread awareness campaigns are crucial steps to reduce the harmful effects of pesticides on the environment, living things, and humans. Establishing pesticide-free buffer zones for water bodies, replacing the contradictory sectorial policies with integrated development policy, and executing the policy objectives are also crucial steps that need to be taken.
FURIN, IFNL4, and TLR2 gene polymorphisms in relation to COVID-19 severity: a case–control study in Egyptian patients
Authors: Elgedawy Gamalat A. , Elabd Naglaa S. , Salem Radwa H. , Awad Samah M. , Amer Amany A. , Torayah Mohammad M. , El-Koa Amal A. , Abozeid Mai , Montaser Belal A. , Aboshabaan Hind S. , Abdelkreem Mervat , Helal Marwa L. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background and Aim
A wide range of clinical manifestations and outcomes, including liver injury, have been reported in COVID-19 patients. We investigated the association of three substantial gene polymorphisms (FURIN, IFNL4, and TLR2) with COVID-19 disease susceptibility and severity to help predict prognosis.

Methods
150 adult COVID-19-assured cases were categorized as follows: 78 patients with a non-severe presentation, 39 patients with severe disease, and 33 critically ill patients. In addition, 74 healthy controls were included. Clinical and laboratory evaluations were carried out, including complete and differential blood counts, D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, ferritin, interleukin-6 (Il-6), and liver and kidney functions. FURIN (rs6226), IFNL4 (rs12979860), and TLR2 (rs3804099) genotyping allelic discrimination assays were conducted using real-time PCR.

Results
The FURIN, IFNL4, and TLR2 genotypes and their alleles differed significantly between COVID-19 patients and controls, as well as between patients with severe or critical illness and those with a non-severe presentation. According to a multivariable regression analysis, FURIN (C/T + T/T) and TLR2 (T/C + C/C) mutants were associated with COVID-19 susceptibility, with odds ratios of 3.293 and 2.839, respectively. FURIN C/C and IFNL4 T/T mutants were significantly linked to severe and critical illnesses. Multivariate regression analysis showed that FURIN (G/C + C/C) genotypes and IFNL4 T/T homozygosity were independent risk factors associated with increased mortality.

Conclusion
FURIN, IFNL4, and TLR2 gene variants are associated with the risk of COVID-19 occurrence as well as increased severity and poor outcomes in Egyptian patients.
Lipidomic signatures in Colombian adults with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Serna María Fernanda , Suarez-Ortegón Milton Fabián , Jiménez-Charris Eliécer , Echeverri Isabella , Cala Mónica P. , Mosquera Mildrey 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background and Aims
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) comprises a set of risk factors that contribute to the development of chronic and cardiovascular diseases, increasing the mortality rate. Altered lipid metabolism is associated with the development of metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, obesity, atherosclerosis, and metabolic syndrome; however, there is a lack of knowledge about lipids compounds and the lipidic pathways associated with this condition, particularly in the Latin-American population. Innovative approaches, such as lipidomic analysis, facilitate the identification of lipid species related to these risk factors. This study aimed to assess the plasma lipidome in subjects with MetS.

Methods
This correlation study included healthy adults and adults with MetS. Blood samples were analyzed. The lipidomic profile was determined using an Agilent Technologies 1260 liquid chromatography system coupled to a Q-TOF 6545 quadrupole mass analyzer with electrospray ionization. The main differences were determined between the groups.

Results
The analyses reveal a distinct lipidomic profile between healthy adults and those with MetS, including increased concentrations of most identified glycerolipids -both triglycerides and diglycerides- and decreased levels of ether lipids and sphingolipids, especially sphingomyelins, in MetS subjects. Association between high triglycerides, waist circumference, and most differentially expressed lipids were found.

Conclusion
Our results demonstrate dysregulation of lipid metabolism in subjects with Mets, supporting the potential utility of plasma lipidome analysis for a deeper understanding of MetS pathophysiology.
Control of a three-wheeled omnidirectional mobile robot via a mixed FTB/$$\mathcal H_\infty $$ approach
Authors: Nesci Francesca , Amato Francesco , Dragone Donatella , Cosentino Carlo , Merola Alessio 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this paper, the problem of guidance and motion control of mobile robots is addressed and solved within the novel framework of the mixed finite-time/$$\mathcal H_\infty $$

H
∞

control theory of nonlinear quadratic systems (NLQSs). Starting from a NLQS describing the dynamics of omnidirectional mobile platforms, the main tasks performed for controlling in closed loop the motion of omnidirectional robots can be conveniently formulated as a mixed finite-time/$$\mathcal H_\infty $$

H
∞

control problem. A robust motion controller, which can effectively rejects disturbances deviating the robot platform from a planned path, can be designed after choosing a linear state-feedback structure for the controller. The synthesis problem is solved through some sufficient conditions contemplating both norm-bounded disturbances and sets constraining initial and terminal conditions, together with a finite-time bound on the output transient. Therefore, for all the allowable uncertainties, in presence of nonzero initial conditions and exogenous disturbance inputs which are possible within an unstructured environment, the motion control tasks can be accomplished through optimal $$\mathcal H_\infty $$

H
∞

performance by simultaneously guaranteeing that the NLQS, which governs in closed loop the robot platform, is finite-time bounded. Finally, the applicability and control performance of the design approach have been evaluated through numerical simulations.
Update on the Role of the Microbiome in Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Fischer Jakob L. , Lee Jivianne T. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a common yet complex and heterogeneous inflammatory condition of the paranasal sinuses that is likely caused by a combination of infectious and inflammatory factors. The role of the microbiome in the pathogenesis of CRS remains poorly defined. The purpose of this review is to examine the role of the microbiome in CRS and evaluate current and emerging therapies that may alter the sinonasal microbiome.

Recent Findings
There are complex interactions among the various microorganisms that make up the sinonasal microbiome with a growing body of evidence that increased microbial biodiversity may be protective against the development of CRS and patients with improved biodiversity may have better treatment outcomes. Topical and systemic antimicrobials, intranasal corticosteroids, and surgery have demonstrated transient changes to the microbiome without significant change in symptoms. The use of probiotics and bacteriophages remain areas of active investigation regarding alterations to the sinonasal microbiome.

Summary
CRS seems to be associated with decreased sinonasal microbial diversity, but whether this is the cause of CRS or a downstream effect remains unclear. Additional evaluation into the role of the microbiome on CRS and the impact of therapies that may yet alter the microbiome are necessary.
Green Manufacturing of Electrically-Tunable Smart Light-Weight Planar Optics: A Review
Authors: Yang Dongwook , Lee Younggeun , Kang Hyeokin , Vu Quang Huy , Kang Guseon , Lee Seung Eon , Han Hyogeun , Kim Seunghwan , Nam Han Ku , Kwon Soongeun , Rhee Hyug-Gyo , Lee Joohyung , Yoo Hongki , Yoon Hyosang , Kim Young-Jin 
Published: May 2024

AbstractEvolving demands for compact, light-weight, and versatile optical systems across various industries require the facile integration of planar diffractive optics. For the manufacturing of diffractive optics, green manufacturing becomes the prerequisite with timely considerations of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). Conventional manufacturing processes such as semiconductor lithography or nano /micro imprinting utilize a large amount of harmful chemicals. Meanwhile, direct laser writing emerges as one of the key solution candidates, offering clear advantages over others, especially in terms of eco-friendliness due to the simple manufacturing process with less chemical usage. In this comprehensive review, we present recent advances in the analytical design, green manufacturing of electrically tunable smart light-weight planar optics, and their promising applications in space optics, photovoltaics, and optical imaging, highlighting the necessity for tunability in focal length, aberration, transparency, and beam propagation direction. Various types of electrically tunable diffractive optical elements utilizing active modulation of refractive index, geometrical shape, and bandgap have been discussed. Finally, this review concludes by proposing the integration of ultra-thin and light-weight diffractive optics presenting potential applications in micro-electronics, biomedical imaging, space exploration, and extended reality.
The Approach to the Management of a Child with Chronic Abdominal Pain
Authors: Farrell Peter , Farrell Leslie , Farrell Michael K. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPurpose of ReviewAbdominal pain occurs frequently in children; chronic abdominal pain affects about 15% of children. There is always an initial concern for serious organic medical conditions; these can be eliminated with careful history and physical examination, especially looking for “red flags.” These children are often subjected to numerous invasive and noninvasive tests; excessive testing should be avoided. There is no evidence extensive testing improves patient outcome or satisfaction. Recent guidelines recommend celiac serology and fecal calprotectin/lactoferrin as the optimal screening tests. Anxiety is often a co-morbidity; the continued testing and lack of explanation exacerbate the symptoms and cause more dysfunction.Recent FindingsOngoing research suggests chronic abdominal pain is a complex interaction of genetics, environmental factors including diet, changes in the microbiome, previous life events, and stresses. The gut-brain axis is now more accurately described as the microbiome-gut-brain axis. Many disturbances have been reported but it remains unclear which are causative versus reactive. Therapeutic interventions have targeted one or more of the components but rarely in a coordinated manner. A positive diagnosis and explanation of pathophysiology are crucial first steps. A holistic approach that focuses on restoration of functioning and well-being is the best approach. A non-pharmacologic approach is the favored initial therapy; many children improve with counseling and assurance that there are no serious organic disorders. A trusting relationship with child and family is an integral part of the treatment plan.SummaryPediatric chronic abdominal pain is commonly encountered in practice. Serious conditions can be eliminated by determining whether any of the so-called red flags are present and judicious testing. High quality evidence is lacking for many proposed treatments. Data interpretation is confounded by a high placebo response rate, even when the placebo is unblinded. The current best evidence is for non-pharmacologic treatments including cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnosis. Neuromodulation is a new, promising intervention.
Mechanical properties and acoustic emission characteristics of soft rock with different water contents under dynamic disturbance
Authors: Jiang Yujing , Chen Lugen , Wang Dong , Luan Hengjie , Zhang Guangchao , Dong Ling , Liang Bin 
Published: May 2024

AbstractUniaxial compression tests and cyclic loading acoustic emission tests were conducted on 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, dry and saturated muddy sandstone by using a creep impact loading system to investigate the mechanical properties and acoustic emission characteristics of soft rocks with different water contents under dynamic disturbance. The mechanical properties and acoustic emission characteristics of muddy sandstones at different water contents were analysed. Results of experimental studies show that water is a key factor in the mechanical properties of rocks, softening them, increasing their porosity, reducing their brittleness and increasing their plasticity. Under uniaxial compression, the macroscopic damage characteristics of the muddy sandstone change from mono-bevel shear damage and ‘X’ type conjugate bevel shear damage to a roadway bottom-drum type damage as the water content increases. Dynamic perturbation has a strengthening effect on the mechanical properties of samples with 60% and less water content, and a weakening effect on samples with 80% and more water content, but the weakening effect is not obvious. Macroscopic damage characteristics of dry samples remain unchanged, water samples from shear damage and tensile–shear composite damage gradually transformed into cleavage damage, until saturation transformation monoclinic shear damage. The evolution of acoustic emission energy and event number is mainly divided into four stages: loading stage (I), dynamic loading stage (II), yield failure stage (III), and post-peak stage (IV), the acoustic emission characteristics of the stages were different for different water contents. The characteristic value of acoustic emission key point frequency gradually decreases, and the damage degree of the specimen increases, corresponding to low water content—high main frequency—low damage and high water content—low main frequency—high damage.