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Tissue engineering (TE) aims to generate bioengineered constructs which can offer a surgical treatment for many conditions involving tissue or organ loss. Construct generation must be guided by suitable assessment tools. However, most current tools (e.g. histology) are destructive, which restricts evaluation to a single-2D anatomical plane, and has no potential for assessing constructs prior to or following their implantation. An alternative can be provided by laboratory-based x-ray phase contrast computed tomography (PC-CT), which enables the extraction of 3D density maps of an organ's anatomy. In this work, we developed a semi-automated image processing pipeline dedicated to the analysis of PC-CT slices of oesophageal constructs. Visual and quantitative (density and morphological) information is extracted on a volumetric basis, enabling a comprehensive evaluation of the regenerated constructs. We believe the presented tools can enable the successful regeneration of patient-specific oesophagus, and bring comparable benefit to a wide range of TE applications. Phase contrast computed tomography (PC-CT) is an imaging modality which generates high resolution volumetric density maps of biological tissue. In this work, we demonstrate the use of PC-CT as a new tool for guiding the progression of an oesophageal tissue engineering (TE) protocol. Specifically, we developed a semi-automated image-processing pipeline which analyses the oesophageal PC-CT slices, extracting visual and quantitative (density and morphological) information. This information was proven key for performing a comprehensive evaluation of the regenerated constructs, and cannot be obtained through existing assessment tools primarily due to their destructive nature (e.g. histology). This work paves the way for using PC-CT in a wide range of TE applications which can be pivotal for unlocking the potential of this field. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.comnet.2006.09.017 Byline: Laura Galluccio (a), Giacomo Morabito (a), Sergio Palazzo (a), Marco Pellegrini (b), M. Elena Renda (b), Paolo Santi (b) Keywords: Wireless mesh networks; Community networks; Resource localization; Distributed hash tables; Scalability Abstract: The success of experiences such as Seattle and Houston Wireless has attracted the attention on the so called wireless mesh community networks. These are wireless multihop networks spontaneously deployed by users willing to share communication resources. Due to the community spirit characterizing such networks, it is likely that users will be willing to share other resources besides communication resources, such as data, images, music, movies, disk quotas for distributed backup, and so on. To support resource exchange in these wireless mesh community networks, algorithms for efficient retrieval of information are required. In this paper we introduce Georoy, an algorithm for the efficient retrieval of the information on resource location based on the Viceroy peer-to-peer algorithm. Differently from Viceroy, Georoy exploits the capability of setting and managing a direct mapping between the resource ID and the node which maintains information about its location so as to speed up the search process. Simulation results show that Georoy enables efficient and scalable search of resources and can be successfully used in wireless mesh community networks. Author Affiliation: (a) Dipartimento di Ingegneria Informatica e delle Telecomunicazioni, University of Catania, V.le A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy (b) Istituto di Informatica e Telematica Via G. Moruzzi 1 56124 Pisa, Italy Article History: Received 5 May 2006; Revised 30 August 2006; Accepted 28 September 2006 Article Note: (footnote) [star] The work of L. Galluccio, G. Morabito and S. Palazzo was partially supported by National project Wireless 8O2.16 Multi-antenna mEsh Networks (WOMEN) under grant number 2005093248.

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology is the property of Elsevier B.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

To compare the outcomes of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) using dehydrated versus standard organ culture-stored donor corneas for eyes with keratoconus. Prospective, randomized, single-center trial conducted in Italy. Adult patients (age ≥ 18 years) with keratoconus scheduled for elective DALK. Patients undergoing successful type 1 bubble pneumatic dissection using a standard DALK technique were randomized during surgery to receive either dehydrated (n = 30) or standard organ culture-stored (n = 30) donor corneas. The primary study outcome was best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) 12 months after surgery. Secondary outcomes were refractive astigmatism (RA), endothelial cell density (ECD), and complication rates. Postoperative BSCVA did not significantly differ between groups at both time points: mean difference at 6 months was 0.030 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR; 95% confidence interval [CI], –0.53 to 0.10 logMAR; P = 0.471) and at 12 months was –0.013 logMAR (95% CI, –0.10 to 0.08 logMAR; P = 0.764). No significant differences between groups were observed in terms of postoperative RA and ECD at all time points. In the first 3 days after DALK, an epithelial defect was present in 10 patients (33%) in the organ culture cornea group and in 29 patients (97%) in the dehydrated cornea group. Complete re-epithelialization was achieved by day 7 in all patients (100%) in both groups. The study provides evidence that the use of dehydrated corneas is noninferior to the use of standard organ culture donor corneas for DALK. Corneal tissue dehydration represents a viable solution that can allow long-term cornea preservation and avoid wastage of unused corneas. The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology is the property of Elsevier B.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The Trento screening program transitioned to digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) screening based on evidence that DBT improves breast cancer (BC) detection compared to mammography; an evaluation of the transition to DBT is reported in this pilot study. Prospective implementation of DBT screening included women aged ≥50 years who attended the Trento program for biennial screening. DBT screening included DBT acquisitions with synthesized 2D-images. A historical cohort of women who attended the program (January 2013–October 2014) and received digital mammography (DM) provided a comparison group. Independent double-reading (with a third arbitrating read for discordance) was used for DBT and DM screening. Screening outcomes included cancer detection rate (CDR/1000 screens), percentage of screens recalled to assessment (recall%), interval cancer rate (ICR/1000 screens) at 2-year follow-up, and screening sensitivity. Rate ratios (RR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) examined outcomes for DBT versus DM screening. From women aged 50–69 years who accepted an invitation to screening (October 2014 – October 2016) 46,343 comprised the DBT-screened group: amongst these 402 BCs (includes 50 ductal carcinoma in-situ (DCIS)) were detected (CDR 8.67/1000), whereas 205 BCs (includes 33 DCIS) were detected amongst 37,436 DM screens (CDR 5.48/1000) [RR for CDR:1.58 (1.34–1.87)]. Recall% was lower for DBT (2.55%) than DM (3.21%) [RR:0.79 (0.73–0.86)]. Compared to DM, DBT screening increased CDR for stage I-II BC, for all tumour size and grade categories, and for node-negative BC, but did not increase CDR for DCIS. Estimated ICR for DBT was 1.1/1000 whereas ICR for DM was 1.36/1000 [RR:0.81 (0.55–1.19)]. Screening sensitivity was 88.74% for DBT versus 80.08% for DM [RR:1.11 (0.94–1.31)]. DBT significantly improved early-detection measures but did not significantly reduce ICR (relative to DM screening), suggesting that it could add benefit as well as adding over-detection in population BC screening. • Evidence from a prospective population-based evaluation of tomosynthesis (DBT) screening. • Amongst 46,343 DBT screens 402 cancers (50 DCIS) were detected (CDR 8.67/1000). • Amongst 37,436 mammography screens 205 cancers (33 DCIS) were detected (CDR 5.48/1000). • DBT increased detection rates of stage I-II cancer (across tumour size and grade categories). • Transition to DBT did not increase DCIS detection rates. • Recall for DBT screening (2.55%) was lower than that for mammography (3.21%). • Interval cancer rate for DBT (October 1, 1000) did not differ from that for mammography (1.36/1000). • Screening sensitivity for DBT (88.74%) was higher than that for mammography (80.08%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluating severe accidents in Generation IV sodium-cooled fast reactors (SFRs) is challenging due to the eutectic reaction between boron carbide (B 4 C) and stainless steel (SS), which results in boron migration and enhanced neutron absorption. A novel quantitative visualization method using radiative heating to observe eutectic behavior and resulting melt structure during boron migration. Experiments, replicating real-scale B 4 C-SS control rods, were conducted in an integrated test facility under core disruptive accidents (CDAs) conditions, introducing a new approach. This study explores the long duration melting (candling phenomenon) of boron within stainless steel, shedding light on relocation behavior not previously studied. We identified two distinct failure mechanisms: the separation of SS from the B 4 C pellet, resulting in the formation of a later melting drop, and the fracture of the B 4 C pellet into multiple pieces, possibly due to thermal stress. The visualization technique and thermal interfacial resistance analysis precisely captured the eutectic temperature, aligning well with prior research. Our study yield insights into eutectic melt relocation behavior by systematically characterizing relocated solidified eutectic melt with a cooling rate of 50 °C/s in stagnant argon environment via scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and microhardness testing. Our study shows that due to high chromium content, (Cr,Fe) 2 B phases are observed in XRD analysis instead of just Fe 2 B phase. Other phases present in our solidified eutectic melt include γ-Fe (fcc), (Cr,Fe) 23 (B,C) 6 (cubic), and (Cr,Fe) 5 B 3. The atomic composition within these zones was ascertained through SEM-EDS analysis. Our study shows varying hardness values in distinct phases, reflecting differing boron concentrations within micrograph zones. Chromium promotes (Cr,Fe) 2 B and (Cr,Fe) 5 B 3 boride formation, transforming the structure from tetragonal to orthorhombic with increased chromium content, thereby increasing hardness. This validates B 4 C-SS eutectic mixture relocation and diverse boride phase formation under extreme reactor conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We previously reported the Screening with tomosynthesis or standard mammography-2 (STORM-2) trial, showing that tomosynthesis (3D-mammography) screening detected more cancers than 2D-mammography in double-reading practice. In this study, we report reader-specific detection measures for radiologists who performed the screen-reading in this trial.Methods: This is a sub-study of the STORM-2 trial which prospectively integrated 3D-mammography with acquired or synthetized 2D-mammograms in parallel double-reading arms. Asymptomatic women ≥49 years who attended population-based screening (Trento, 2013-2015) were recruited. Screening participants were recalled at any positive sequential screen-read in either reading arm of the trial. Radiologist-specific detection measures were calculated for each of seven radiologists who performed screen-reads: number of detected cancers, proportion of true-positive (TP) detection, and number and rate of false-positive (FP) recalls (FPR). We estimated incremental cancer detection rate (CDR) from integrating 3D-mammography in screen-reading.Results: Across all radiologists, TP detection (relative sensitivity) ranged between: 46% and 100% (median 59.5%) for 2D-mammography; 75% and 100% (median 76%) for integrated 2D/3D-mammography screening; 56% and 76% (median 64%) for 2Dsynthetic; 67% and 88% (median 78%) for 2Dsynthetic/3D-mammography. Integrating 3D-mammography led to incremental CDRs between 0/1000 and 3.5/1000 screens. FPR ranged between: 1.2% and 2.7% (median 2.25%) for 2D-mammography; 1.5% and 3.4% (median 2.75%) for 2D/3D-mammography; 1.6% and 4.6% (median 2.4%) for 2Dsynthetic; and 1.8% and 6.7% (median 3.0%) for 2Dsynthetic/3D-mammography.Conclusions: There was variability in the magnitude of effect from integrating 3D-mammography (relative to screen-reading with acquired or synthesised 2D-mammography alone) on individual radiologist's TP and FP detection, although there was an overall pattern of increasing cancer detection and also increasing FP recall for most readers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fine particulate matter (PM) emission from biomass boilers for non-industrial heating represents one of the most important causes (together with the transport sector) of air pollution, in particular during winter. Separation technologies for fine PM are already well-known and adopted on an industrial scale, as a consequence of strict limits set by national and international regulations. On domestic boilers, the same technologies utilized on an industrial scale are not feasible due to high investment costs. Moreover, the emission limits for small size biomass boilers are higher than for industrial boilers, so high efficiency separation technologies are not needed, and are sometimes not present at all. The main goal of the paper is the development and testing of a mathematical model that is able to foresee the PM removal efficiency of a wet scrubber device. After an experimental validation based on several tests, it was possible to approach the preliminary design of an innovative wet scrubber, which is described in the paper. The main characteristics are (i) removal efficiency over 99.9%, (ii) specific energy consumption under 36 kJ m −3 , which is an industrial reference, and (iii) relatively low investment, operation and maintenance costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Dry eye disease is a multifactorial disease which affects the ocular surface system, and determines ocular discomfort symptoms and visual disturbance. Various types of ocular surgery, including strabismus one, represents a recognized cause for iatrogenic dry eye. However, it is not uncommon that strabismus patients, even not undergone to surgery, report symptoms of ocular discomfort and dryness. Hypothesis We hypothesize that two possible mechanisms may determine dry eye in strabismus patients by setting up a specific vicious circle: firstly, the increased exposure of the area of the bulbar conjunctiva located on the opposite side compared to the deviation may cause the thinning of the tear film lipid layer, with increased tear film instability; secondly, the dysfunctional lubricity secondary to the altered relationship between the eyelids and the deviated globe may cause blinking-related microtrauma, and thus inflammation and tear hyperosmolarity. These two entry points into the vicious circle of dry eye may determine a cascade of detrimental mechanisms, leading to further damage of the tear film, thus closing the disease circle.Discussion: Strabismus patients may be affected by signs and symptoms of dry eye syndrome. The increased exposure of the bulbar conjunctival area along with the dysfunctional lubricity between the eyelids and the deviated eye could be the main underlying pathophysiological mechanisms acting as entry points into the vicious circle of dry eye disease. If our hypothesis was to be confirmed, ocular surface parameters should be routinely investigated in strabismus patients, whilethe use of tear substitutes with the aim of moistening and nourishing the ocular surface could help in reducing dry eye signs and symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we classify the isomorphism classes of four dimensional nilpotent associative algebras over a field F , studying regular subgroups of the affine group AGL 4 ( F ) . In particular we provide explicit representatives for such classes when F is a finite field, the real field R or an algebraically closed field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper describes two innovative technological solutions developed at the University of Bologna and shows a preliminary design on how they can be integrated in a commercial biomass boiler for residential application. The first innovation is a high efficiency and low cost filter for particulate emissions: the first prototype of bubble-column scrubber was tested in University of Bologna laboratory on a 25 kW th and reaches PM2.5 removal efficiency up to 95%. The second innovation is the integration of a thermoelectric generator able to produce electricity directly from heat exchange. A prototype has been realized and tested in University of Bologna laboratory and represents a new approach in the design and application of thermoelectric generator in the field of biomass boiler. The paper will evaluate how these new technologies can be integrated in a residential size biomass boiler from a technological and economic point of view, considering also operation and maintenance costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Core Disruptive Accident (CDA) is a critical scenario in the Generation IV sodium-cooled fast reactor development. One of the key issues in the CDA evaluation is the eutectic reaction between Boron carbide (B 4 C) and Stainless Steel (SS). For developing a physical model in the CDA analysis code, it is necessary to investigate the B 4 C-SS eutectic reaction. To assess the reaction, one quantitative and high-resolution method using Joule heating is proposed in this study. Experiments were conducted using B 4 C material and SUS304 tubes. With an originally proposed equation, reaction rate constant data in the 1450 K-1500 K range were obtained, which was scarce in the past. The derived reaction rate constant values are consistent with the reference values. The reaction layer microstructure observation and the associated chemical composition analysis were also conducted. The proposed method is validated by the results. It can be concluded that the new method is credible with high efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To assess the status of choriocapillaris in eyes with macular atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (geographic atrophy [GA]) and Stargardt disease (STGD) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Design Prospective, observational case series. Participants A total of 14 patients (20 eyes) affected by GA and 10 patients (20 eyes) affected by STGD. Methods Each patient underwent a complete ophthalmological examination including fundus autofluorescence (FAF), dynamic simultaneous fluorescein angiography (FA) and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA), enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) (HRA+OCT Spectralis, Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany), and OCTA using AngioVue technologies (Optovue Inc, Freemont, CA). Main Outcome Measures An evaluation of the status of choriocapillaris in the 2 groups was performed. Results Patients' mean age was 75 years for subjects with GA (median, 76 years; range, 63–88 years) and 61 years for STGD (median, 62 years; range, 40–74 years). Atrophy was bilateral in 42% (n = 6) of subjects with GA and 100% (n = 10) of subjects with STGD. In the early frames, FA displayed hyperfluorescence in the atrophic area in 100% (n = 20) of eyes affected by GA and 20% (n = 4) of eyes affected by STGD; dark choroid was present in 0% of GA eyes and 65% of STGD eyes (n = 13). Atrophy in ICGA late frames was hypofluorescent in 20% (n = 4) of GA eyes and 100% (n = 20) of STGD eyes. A ring at atrophy margins was detected in both FA (90%, n = 18) and ICGA (100%, n = 20) in STGD eyes. Mean subfoveal choroidal thickness was 156 μm (147, 42–362 μm) for GA eyes and 168 μm (167, 55–320 μm) for STGD eyes ( P = 0.59). At OCTA evaluation, GA eyes showed persisting, rarefied choriocapillaris in correspondence of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy in 80% (n = 16) of cases, whereas eyes affected by STGD had disappearance of this tissue in 100% (n = 20; P < 0.0001). Conclusions Analysis of macular atrophy by OCTA in patients with STGD revealed an extensive loss of choriocapillaris in the central area with persisting tissue at its margins, whereas in those with GA the area of RPE loss showed persistent but rarefied choriocapillaris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High temperature heat pipe is an ideal technical solution for microreactors applied for space missions, planet surface, and the small electricity markets on the ground. By using heat pipes, fission heat can be transferred passively and the structure of microreactor is highly simplified as the pumps, pipelines and coolant system are no longer needed in reactor system. For space reactors, because there is no gravity to drive working fluid in the heat pipe, wick structure is used to provide capillary force to generate driving head. However, for the microreactors operating on planet surface or on the earth, high temperature heat pipe is proved to have different thermal behavior compared to weightless environment. Due to gravity, the heat transfer characteristics varies from operation positions, including horizontal, vertical, and inclined positions. This paper aims to develop a general CFD model for heat pipe with wick structure that can predict the thermal behavior at different inclinations. The thermal conduction through heat pipe shell, liquid film on the inner surface, and the formation of liquid reservoir at the bottom of heat pipe are considered in this model. Simulation results are compared with experimental data, showing that the numerical model is able to predict temperature distribution along the heat pipe, especially the temperature increase at the beginning part of evaporator when heat pipe is vertical or 45° inclined. Therefore, this paper can provide a reference to the design and analysis of high temperature heat pipe used in micronuclear reactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A hybrid power plant wherein solar steam reforming of natural gas and a steam injected gas turbine power plant are integrated for solar syngas production and use has been developed by the authors. In this plant a gas turbine is fed by a mixture of natural gas and solar syngas, which is mainly composed of hydrogen and water steam, from mid-low temperature steam reforming reaction whose heat duty is supplied by a parabolic trough Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) plant. The paper shows an economic assessment of the proposed solution if applied, in particular, in North-African Countries: a comparison is made between a traditional system and the innovative proposed one. The Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) computation shows how the solar hybridization can contribute to a reduction of electric energy production costs of about −2.7%. Net Present Value (NPV) analysis shows how, at the end of plant life, the hybrid plant produces a higher NPV, thus producing a net benefit about 11% higher than the traditional one. Moreover, the hybrid power plant LCOE and NPV have been computed at different electric energy revenues and natural gas costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The conjecture of Peter Horak and Alex Rosa (generalizing that of Marco Buratti) states that a multiset of positive integers not exceeding is the list of edge-lengths of a suitable Hamiltonian path of the complete graph with vertex-set if and only if the following condition (here reformulated in a slightly easier form) is satisfied: for every divisor of , the number of multiples of appearing in is at most . In this paper we do some preliminary discussions on the conjecture, including its relationship with graph decompositions. Then we prove, as main result, that the conjecture is true whenever all the elements of are in . [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background & objectives: Three-dimensional (3D)-mammography (tomosynthesis) may improve breast cancer detection. We examined centre-specific effect of integrated 2D/3D mammography based on the STORM (screening with tomosynthesis or standard mammography) trial. Methods: Asymptomatic women who attended population-based screening through Trento and Verona screening centres were recruited into STORM, a prospective comparison of screen-reading in two sequential phases: 2D-mammography only and integrated 2D/3D mammography. Outcomes were the number and rates of detected cancers and of false positive recalls (FPR), and incremental cancer detection rate (CDR). Paired binary data were compared using Mc Nemar's test. Results: Of 33 cancers detected in Trento, 21 were detected at both 2D and 2D/3D screening, 12 cancers were detected only with integrated 2D/3D screening compared with none detected at 2D-only screening (P < 0.001). Of the 26 cancers detected in Verona, 18 were detected at both 2D and 2D/3D screening, 8 cancers were detected only with integrated 2D/3D screening compared with none detected at 2D-only screening (P = 0.008). There were no differences between centres in baseline CDR, and incremental CDR attributable to 3D-mammography was similar for Trento (2.8/1000 screens) and for Verona (2.6/1000 screens). Trento had 239 FPR (5.7% of screens): 103 FPR at both screen-readings, 93 FPR only at 2D-mammography compared with 43 FPR only at 2D/3D-mammography (p < 0.001). Verona had 156 FPR (5.2% of screens): 78 FPR at both screen-readings, 48 FPR only at 2D-mammography compared with 30 FPR only at 2D/3D-mammography (p = 0.054). Estimated reduction in FPR proportion had recall been conditional to 2D/3D-mammography-positivity differed between centres (21.0% versus 11.5%; P = 0.02). Conclusion: Integrated 2D/3D-mammography significantly increased cancer detection for both screening services; potential reduction in FPR is likely to differ between centres with those experiencing relatively higher FPR most likely to benefit from 2D/3D-mammography screening. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A thermoelectric cells test facility has been designed and realized at the laboratory of the Department of Industrial Engineering (DIN), University of Bologna. The test facility has been configured to reproduce, in scale, the working conditions of a typical biomass power plant. Commercial thermoelectric cells (also named Seebeck cells) are characterized by direct low efficiency (up to 5%) conversion from thermal to electric energy. Many technical items have to be analyzed and consequent proper solutions must be found to reach the maximum power output. Thus, the test facility will return a great deal of information as regards the best integration between cells and biomass power plant. Furthermore, due to low cell efficiency, the goal of the integration is not to produce electrical energy for external power supply, but to realize a stand-alone biomass power plant wherein the electrical energy produced is totally auto-consumed. The paper shows the test facility and the experimental results and introduces the new test device that has been designed for industrial application. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To assess eyes with unilateral choroidal melanocytosis using enhanced depth imaging (EDI) optical coherence tomography (OCT). Design: Retrospective, observational case series. Participants: Fifteen patients with unilateral choroidal melanocytosis. Methods: Each patient was evaluated with EDI-OCT, and comparison was made of involved versus uninvolved foveal retinal and choroidal layers. Main Outcome Measures: Enhanced depth imaging OCT features of choroidal melanocytosis. Results: The mean patient age was 28 years (median, 23 years; range, 5–76 years). There were 9 male and 6 female patients. Best-corrected visual acuity ranged from 20/20 to 20/30. All patients had subfoveal involvement with choroidal melanocytosis. Associated features included dermal (n = 6), scleral (n = 9), iris (n = 3), and palate (n = 1) melanocytosis. Spectral domain EDI-OCT revealed normal inner retina (n = 15) and normal outer retina (n = 14). The only retinal abnormality was a defect in both the myoid zone and the ellipsoid junction (n = 1). The affected choroid showed smooth anterior contour (n = 15) and thinned or compressed choriocapillaris (n = 2), thinned (n = 3) or thickened (n = 3) medium vessels, and thinned large vessels (n = 2). The subfoveal choroid was a mean 23% thicker in the involved eye, with a mean thickness of 326.4 μm (median, 326 μm; range, 120–459 μm) compared with 264.4 μm (median, 260 μm; range, 94–462 μm) in the uninvolved eye (P = 0.15). The choroidal perivascular interstitial tissue was 51% thicker in the study eye, enwrapping and silhouetting the medium and large vessels (P = 0.01). The ratio between the perivascular stromal tissue and the subfoveal choroidal thickness was 66% in the study eye and 54% in the normal eye (P = 0.0001). Deep partial (n = 5) or complete (n = 2) tissue shadowing was noted. Conclusions: Enhanced depth imaging OCT revealed that choroidal melanocytosis shows increased subfoveal choroidal thickness with an apparent increase in the choroidal perivascular stromal tissue and minimal effect on the overlying retina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the imaging characteristics of congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium (CHRPE). Design: Retrospective, observational case series. Participants: Eighteen eyes of 18 patients with CHRPE. Methods: Review of chart, fundus photography, ultrasonography, fundus autofluorescence, infrared reflectance (IR) imaging, and enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT). Main Outcome Measures: Features of CHRPE as analyzed by EDI-OCT. Results: The mean age at diagnosis was 48 years (range, 13–73 years). There were 5 males and 13 females, and 17 Caucasian and 1 African American patients. The mean best-corrected visual acuity was 20/22 (range, 20/20–20/40). The CHRPE was located in the retinal periphery (n = 16) with intralesional lacunae (n = 14) and surrounding nonpigmented (n = 4) and pigmented (n = 14) halo. By ultrasonography, the mean CHRPE thickness was 1.0 mm (range, 0.9–1.4 mm). Fundus autofluorescence disclosed hypoautofluorescence (n = 18) with lacunae (n = 14) showing isoautofluorescence (n = 10) or hypoautofluorescence (n = 4). Infrared reflectance imaging displayed hyporeflectivity in the area of pigmentation (n = 16) and hyperreflectivity within lacunae (n = 14). On EDI-OCT, all 18 lesions were flat with a mean basal diameter of 4529 μm (median, 3707 μm; range, 697–11 617 μm). The mean central sublesional choroidal thickness (126.4 μm) was not different compared with thickness 50 μm outside the margin (126.8 μm; P = 0.99). The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) was absent (n = 2), thickened (n = 16), or irregular (n = 15). Of 9 lesions in which lacunae were imaged, 8 showed absent RPE. The overlying retinal findings included thinning or absence of the outer retina beginning at the ganglion cell layer (n = 1), outer plexiform layer (n = 4), outer nuclear layer (n = 12), or inner segment/outer segment junction (n = 1). Additional retinal findings included hyperreflective spots (n = 11), cystoid edema (n = 5), and subretinal cleft (n = 6). Subretinal cleft specifically occurred at the site of absent photoreceptors. Conclusions: Generally, CHRPE displays hypoautoflouorescence and hyporeflectivity with hyperreflective lacunae on IR imaging. On EDI-OCT, CHRPE seems flat with thickened, irregular RPE and absent RPE within lacunae. A prominent feature is outer retinal loss, generally involving the outer nuclear layer to photoreceptors, occasionally with a characteristic subretinal cleft. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe a series of 20 patients with opaque media, referred with uveal melanoma, but subsequently found to have pseudomelanoma from oblique imaging of hypermature cataract on ultrasonography. Design: Case series. Participants: Twenty patients. Methods: Retrospective chart review. Main Outcome Measures: Ultrasound imaging. Results: All eyes had opaque media from hypermature cataract with no view of the fundus. All were referred because of suspected uveal melanoma, based on ultrasonographic imaging. The echogenic mass appeared to be in the ciliary body (n = 17) or choroid (n = 3). The median patient age was 54 years (range, 17–86 years). Most patients were white (n = 13) or black (n = 4). There was a history of eye trauma (n = 3) and ocular surgery (n = 1). Visual acuity was light perception to hand movements (n = 18) and 20/50 to 20/100 (n = 2). The cataract was in an anatomic position (n = 18) or subluxated (n = 2). On B-scan ultrasonography, the mass was dome-shaped (n = 10) or elliptical (n = 10), displayed an acoustically hollow center with a dense rim (n = 20), and was located in the ciliary body (n = 17) or choroid (n = 3). The mean thickness was 7.2 mm and the mean base was 9.3 mm. Features suggestive of cataract rather than melanoma included a lack of contiguity with the uvea (n = 20) on videoimaging using standard ultrasonography and ultrasound biomicroscopy, a lack of a transillumination shadow, and a lack of a sentinel vessel. For those in the ciliary body region, an additional feature was the ultrasonographic presence of mass in all 4 quadrants (n = 17), representing oblique imaging of the lens equator. For those in the choroid region, the pseudomelanoma shifted when the patient was imaged in a reclined compared with an upright position. After cataract surgery, the lack of melanoma was confirmed. Conclusions: Dense cataract can preclude a fundus view, necessitating ultrasonography for imaging the posterior segment of the eye. Ultrasonographic confusion with a ciliary body and choroidal melanoma can occur because the dome-shaped cataract can simulate a dome-shaped melanoma. Financial Disclosure(s): The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Gas turbine power plant repowering by solar energy. [•] Solar thermochemical process for solar energy conversion. [•] Hybrid power plant for solar energy conversion and peak demand cover. [•] Use of natural gas pipeline as an energy smart grid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Verifying the capacity of different types of air filters to stop the propagation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has become a strategic element to contain viral spreading in enclosed spaces. This paper shows the results of experimental tests about the capacity of different commercial filter grades to stop SARS-CoV-2 propagation using inactivated virions. In the first test, the obtained results showed that the F8 filter blocks SARS-CoV-2 propagation if it encounters a flow devoid of liquid phase, i.e., a biphasic flow that can wet the filtering material. On the contrary, as shown in the second test, the SARS-CoV-2 virus propagates through the F8 filter if the droplet content in the air flow is enough to wet it. In these operational conditions, i.e., when the filter is wet by a flow with a high droplet content, the absolute H14 filter was also shown to fail to stop the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Lastly, in the third test, the viral load was shown to be stopped when the pathway of the infected droplet is blocked. • Experimental validation of the capacity of air filters to block SARS-CoV-2. • Good practice to minimize the propagation of SARS-CoV-2 in air conditioning systems. • Droplet and airborne transmission mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: 17β-Estradiol (E2) binding induces rapid modification in the conformation of its cognate receptors (i.e., ERα and ERβ). These allosteric changes allow the association of ERs with cell specific transcriptional cofactors, thus determining cellular contexts specific variations in gene expression. In addition, E2–ER complexes could also interact with membrane and cytosolic signal molecules triggering extra-nuclear signalling pathways. The synergy between these mechanisms is necessary for E2-induced pleiotropic actions in target tissues. Besides E2, the ER ligand binding domains can accommodate many other natural and synthetic ligands. Several of these compounds act as agonist or antagonist of ER transcriptional activity due to their ability to modify the interactions between ERs and transcriptional co-regulators. However, the ability of natural or manmade ER ligands to affect the extra-nuclear interactions of the ERs has been rarely evaluated. Here, the ability of two diet-derived flavonoids (i.e., naringenin and quercetin) and of the synthetic food-contaminant bisphenol A to modulate specifically ER extra-nuclear signalling pathways will be reported. All the tested compounds bind to both ER subtypes even if lesser than E2 activating divergent signal transduction pathways. In fact, in the presence of ERα, both naringenin and quercetin decouple ERα activities by specifically interfering with ERα membrane initiating signals. On the other hand, bisphenol A, but not flavonoids, maintains ERβ at the membrane thus impairing the activation of the downstream kinases. As a whole, extra-nuclear ER signals are highly susceptible to different ligands that, by unbalancing E2-induced cell functions drive cells to different functional endpoints. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The correct evaluation of flows at transitional Reynolds number in nuclear reactors is gaining higher importance in relation to the accident analysis for buoyancy-driven flows which dominate the heat decay removal process. In the present paper a comparative study of different turbulence modeling and wall treatment for the evaluation of a fluid flow in transitional Reynolds number, is presented employing computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The relative performance of the models is assessed through benchmarking of fully developed pipe flow at Reynolds number 4900 and of a 90° bend pipe at Reynolds number 5000. Predictions of velocity profiles at different locations are compared to both experimental and accurate numerical simulations. It has been found that the predictions between the models can vary considerably in particular in relation to the different wall treatment employed on the wall. The results show the concerns about the employment of the available turbulence models and wall treatments in low Reynolds number flow regimes and explanation is provided in relation to their formulation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The bent pipe wall thinning has been often found at the elbow of the drain line and the high-pressure secondary feed-water bent pipe in the nuclear reactors. The liquid droplet impingement (LDI) erosion could be regarded to be one of the major causes and is a significant issue of the thermal hydraulics and structural integrity in aging and life extension for nuclear power plants safety. In this paper two-phase numerical simulations are conducted for standard elbow geometry, typically the pipe diameter is 170mm. The turbulence attenuation in vapor-droplets flow is analysed by a damping function on the energy spectrum basis of single phase flow. Considering the vapor turbulent kinetic energy attenuation due to the involved droplets, a computational fluid dynamic (CFD) tool has been adopted by using two-way vapor-droplet coupled system. This computational fluid model is built up by incompressible Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stoke equations using standard k–ε model and the SIMPLE algorithm, and the numerical droplet model adopts the Lagrangian approach, a general LDI erosion prediction procedure for bent pipe geometry has been performed to supplement the CFD code. The liquid droplets diameter, velocity, volume concentration are evaluated for the effects of carrier turbulence attenuation. The result shows that carrier turbulence kinetic energy attenuation is proved to be an important effect for LDI erosion rate when investigating the bent pipe wall thinning phenomena. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We consider the fundamental problem of waking up n processors sharing a multiple access channel. We assume the weakest model of synchronization, the locally synchronous model, in which no global clock is available: processors have local clocks ticking at the same rate, but each clock starts counting the rounds in the round in which the correspondent processor wakes up. Moreover, the number n of processors is not known to the processors. We propose a new deterministic algorithm for this problem in time , which improves on the currently best upper bound of . [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective: Assess mammographic and echographic modifications in mild cases of breast cancer (suitable for conservative surgery) after intraoperatory radio treatment (IORT) as opposed to conventional post-operative radiotherapy (RT). Materials and methods: We report data from 45 patients in each group (IORT and RT). All patients were examined using the same mammographic and ecographic equipment at 6, 12 and 24 months after treatment. We focused on structural alterations, edema and others, and quantified them using pre-established (unbiased) protocols. Both patient examination and subsequent assessment of the results were performed by radiologists with exepertise in breast cancer evaluation. Results: At 6 months, IORT patients showed slightly more pronounced structural distortions and oedema than RT patients; these differences became more apparent at 12 months, with the addition of fat necrosis and/or calcifications. These alterations were evident and consistent under both mammographic and ecographic examination, and became even more pronounced at 24 months. At this stage, RT patients showed minimal alterations of the tissue (apart from normal post-surgical scarring), whereas IORT patients showed virtually no improvement over the preceding 12-month period. Conclusion: We show radiological alterations in post-operative breast cancer are significantly more pronounced in patients treated with IORT as opposed to RT. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• The multi-term FP behavior analyses were validated with the CAMS dose rate data. • The conversion factors can bridge the measured dose rates and analyzed FP distributions. • The CAMS dose rate can be calculated by multiplying FP amounts by the conversion factors. Multi-term fission product (FP) analysis procedures were developed to determine FP distribution all over the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant (F1) not only for analyzing accident propagation but also for planning its decommissioning projects. They should be validated based on the measured FP data. One of the useful tools for their validation was application of the dose rate data monitored by the containment atmosphere monitoring system (CAMS). However, in order to compare the data with different characteristics and dimensional units, e.g. , FP distribution (kg, Bq) and dose rate (Sv/h), application of the conversion factors bridging them would be effective and useful. In order to prepare speedy, easy-to-handle and tractable procedures to calculate radiation dose rates at the CAMS detector locations, dose rate conversion factors were determined for major source locations and major radionuclides. The dose rates could be easily calculated by multiplying FP amounts obtained with the multi-term FP analysis procedures by the conversion factors. This paper introduces the procedures to calculate the conversion factors based on a point kernel integral shielding calculation code, QAD-CGGP2. Then, the determined conversion factors for the 460 MWe BWR (1F Unit 1) and for the 780 MWe BWR (Units 2 and 3) are listed and the differences in those due to the reactor sizes are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of Generation IV Sodium-cooled Fast Reactors (SFRs) faces a crucial challenge concerning Core Disruptive Accidents (CDAs). The eutectic reaction between boron carbide (B 4 C) and Stainless Steel (SS) can lead to boron migration, resulting in the formation of a eutectic melt that may relocate extensively within the core, thereby affecting neutron balance in the disrupted core. The study utilizes a quantitative and high-resolution method using Joule heating to assess the reaction rate to determine the extent of boron migration within the reactor core. Experiments with B 4 C pellets and SS tubes were conducted in the temperature range of 1450 K–1550 K, comparing them to previous work using B 4 C powder. Results show that the eutectic reaction between B 4 C pellet and SS is considerably slower than that between B 4 C powder and SS. The derived reaction rate constants for pellet case align with literature findings. Additionally, a composition analysis using SEM/EDS was performed on the pellet case to examine microstructures. In the pellet case, the reaction layer exhibits two distinct layers. The first layer is thin and uniform, composed of MeB (Me = Fe, Cr, or Ni) and located adjacent to the B 4 C region. The second layer is thick and consists of MeB precipitate with Me 3 B 2 grey contrasts. This differs from our previous B 4 C powder case, where only a single layer of MeB precipitate was observed. Notably, there is no B 4 C present in the pellet reaction layer. Studying the eutectic reaction mechanism in control rods through assessing the reaction rate and microstructures enhances safety and understanding of CDAs in SFRs. • B 4 C-SS eutectic reaction experiments were performed and compared between B4C powder and B 4 C pellet. • Reaction rate constant data in the 1450K–1550K range was derived. • The microstructures of the pellet case are more intricate than those of the powder case. • Powder case has one thick layer with precipitate, and the pellet case has two thick precipitates in reaction layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Let v = 2 m s + t be a positive integer, where t divides 2 m s , and let J be the subgroup of order t of the cyclic group Z v. An integer Heffter array H t (m , n ; s , k) over Z v relative to J is an m × n partially filled array with elements in Z v such that: (a) each row contains s filled cells and each column contains k filled cells; (b) for every x ∈ Z v ∖ J , either x or − x appears in the array; (c) the elements in every row and column, viewed as integers in ± 1 , ... , v 2 , sum to 0 in Z. In this paper we study the existence of an integer H t (m , n ; s , k) when s and k are both even, proving the following results. Suppose that 4 ≤ s ≤ n and 4 ≤ k ≤ m are such that m s = n k. Let t be a divisor of 2 m s. (a) If s , k ≡ 0 (mod 4) , there exists an integer H t (m , n ; s , k). (b) If s ≡ 2 (mod 4) and k ≡ 0 (mod 4) , there exists an integer H t (m , n ; s , k) if and only if m is even. (c) If s ≡ 0 (mod 4) and k ≡ 2 (mod 4) , then there exists an integer H t (m , n ; s , k) if and only if n is even. (d) Suppose that m and n are both even. If s , k ≡ 2 (mod 4) , then there exists an integer H t (m , n ; s , k). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ongoing debate regarding the value of pre-operative MRI in staging patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer has resulted from the lack of evidence on its clinical efficacy, which contrasts MRIs capability for detecting additional disease (occult on conventional imaging) in the cancerous breast. We undertook a validation study of EUSOMA criteria that recommend selection of breast conserving surgery (BCS) candidates to pre-operative MRI. We examined whether these criteria were associated with a differential likelihood of a recommendation for mastectomy. In a cohort of 200 subjects, recommended for BCS following mammography (M) and ultrasound (US), and who also subsequently had pre-operative MRI, the proportions recommended for mastectomy based on MRI, where the criterion was present versus absent were: invasive lobular cancer (17.9% versus 17.4%; p =0.87); high familial risk (14.7% versus 18.1%; p =0.82); M/US tumour size discrepancy >1cm (32.1% versus 15.1%; p =0.05); and for any of these criteria versus none (21.6% versus 14.3%; p =0.24). These findings suggest that EUSOMA criteria for selection to pre-operative MRI may be inefficient as they do not appear to differentiate those at risk of having more extensive disease and likely to receive a mastectomy recommendation, with the exception of M/US tumour size discrepancy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A green hydrogen (H 2) economy requires a sustainable, efficient, safe, and widespread infrastructure for transporting and distributing H 2 from production to consumption sites. Transporting a hydrogen/natural gas (H2NG) mixture, including pure H 2 , through the existing European natural gas (NG) infrastructure is considered a cost-effective solution, particularly in the transitional phase. Several reasons justify the H2NG blending option. The NG infrastructure can be efficiently repurposed to transport H 2 , by blending H 2 with NG, to operate as H 2 daily storage, matching production and demand and to enable large-scale seasonal H 2 storage. Although many benefits exist, the potential of existing NG grids for transporting and distributing green H 2 may face limitations due to technical, economic, or normative concerns. This paper focuses on the state of the art of the European NG transmission and distribution metrology normative framework and identifies the gaps to be filled in case of H2NG flowing into the existing grids. The paper was revised to provide a comprehensive analysis of the practical implications resulting from the H2NG blend option. [Display omitted] • The RePowerEU planned hydrogen production and utilization to achieve decarbonization targets. • The existing gas grid is considered for transporting and distribute large hydrogen amounts. • The European Committee for Standardization defined Standards on gas grid instrumentation. • A review of the European natural gas grid metrology normative was carried out in THOTH2 Project. • Standards need to be revised to account for hydrogen-natural gas mixtures transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen supplying to industrial users is currently the major hydrogen business worldwide and the demand for hydrogen is almost entirely supplied from fossil fuels. In the last years a widespread interest on hydrogen has grown as energy vector for the decarbonization of multiple sectors, including industry, transport and buildings. Nevertheless, the impact of natural gas and other fossil fuels substitution with hydrogen is highly affected by the mix of different technologies and energy sources applied for hydrogen generation. The paper aims to investigate current CO 2 emissions related with hydrogen generation in Australia and Italy by means of PEM and alkaline technologies; and to evaluate the potential impact considering cell characteristics variation and 3 scenarios based on energy mix. A sensitivity analysis is performed to identify the critical parameters. Based on experimental data, the energy consumption for hydrogen production using PEM technology is more sensitive to cell voltage compared to current density, which indicates the importance of cell manufacturing and electrolyte resistance. In addition, by performing sensitivity analysis regarding energy sources scenarios it is found that carbon dioxide emission in Australia is more sensitive to renewable energy sources rather than Italy. [Display omitted] • Importance of manufacturing and electrolyte resistance because of high PEM energy consumption sensitivity to cell voltage. • Predicted emission in 2030 is 5–10 kg CO 2 using PEM/alkaline technology in Italy. • 18% reduction of national electricity grid CO 2 emission in Australia is predicted. (In 2030 in comparison to 2019). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The paper deals with extensive monitoring of a solar thermal parabolic dish system. It was carried at the outdoor development center HEnergia of HERA S. p.A. in Forlì (Italy). HEnergia has a small-scale parabolic dish of 11.5 kW thermal peak which has been realized with a commercial concentrating unit. Parabolic dish plant is remotely monitored and data on environmental conditions, module temperature, cooling fluid flowrate and temperatures and thermal power production are continuously acquired and stored by a PC. Parabolic dish plant performance can be measured on-site and compared in relation to different environmental conditions. On the basis of experimental data, the paper also shows a simplified method to evaluate parabolic dish performance. Highlights • Parabolic dish solar system potential in Central Italy has been assessed. • Data coming from the outdoor monitoring of a commercial parabolic dish solar plant has been analysed. • Thermal performance of the parabolic dish solar system is compared with the estimated one. • The suggested simplified model shows good approximation of yearly solar thermal yield and daily mean temperature of the cooling fluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Natural Gas (NG) distribution is obtained by a really complex system that must ensure safe conditions and avoid human or economic losses. This paper analyzes accidents that occurred between 2004 and 2015 in the United States distribution systems and were recorded in the Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA) database. Statistical trends are studied; number of accidents, injuries and fatalities are shown and risk indexes are proposed for different accident causes. An average value of 2.09 × 10−5 accidents/km are found in US distribution systems and it is shown that natural events pose the highest risk to distribution systems. Working conditions, such as pressure, pipe diameter and system age are considered in the study, finding that the low pressure and diameter systems account for the greatest number of injuries and fatalities in the case of failure. On the basis of the results, recommendations are given to sector stakeholders. Highlights • Statistical analysis of accidents occurred in Natural Gas distribution systems in the United States between 2004 and 2015. • Analysis of accidents as a function of causes. • Definition and evaluation of safety factors. • Analysis of system performances as a function of material, pressure, size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]