bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) predicts relapse free and overall survival in unresected Locally Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer treated with chemo- radiotherapy.
Authors: Pastena Fiorella , Pond Gregory , Tsakiridis Evangelia E. , Gouveia Andre , Ahmadi Elham , Biziotis Olga-Demetra , Ali Amr , Swaminath Anand , Okawara Gordon , Ellis Peter M , Abdulkarim Bassam , Ahmed Naseer , Robinson Andrew , Roa Wilson , Valdes Mario , Kavsak Peter , Wierzbicki Marcin , Wright James , Steinberg Gregory , Tsakiridis Theodoros
Published: April 2024

Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is a cytokine of the TGFβ family. Here, we analyzed GDF15 levels in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LA-NSCLC) who participated in OCOG-ALMERA (NCT02115464), a phase II randomized clinical trial, that investigated metformin in combination with standard-of-care concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cCRT). Methods: Patients were randomized to treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy and concurrent chest radiotherapy (60-66Gy), with or without metformin (2000mg/d). The trial collected tumor volume parameters, survival outcomes, and patient blood plasma at baseline, during (weeks 1 and 6) and 6 months after cCRT. Plasma GDF15 levels were assayed with the ELISA method. Statistical analyses explored associations between GDF15, survival outcomes, and radiotherapy tumor volumes. Results: Baseline plasma levels of GDF15 were elevated in study patients, they increased during cCRT (p < 0.001), and the addition of metformin was associated with a further increase (week 6, p = 0.033). Baseline GDF15 levels correlated with the radiotherapy gross target volume (GTV, p < 0.01), while week 1 of radiotherapy levels correlated with radiotherapy planned target volume (PTV, p < 0.006). In multivariate analysis, baseline plasma GDF15 was prognostic poor relapse-free (RFS) and overall survival (OS) (p = 0.005 and p = 0.002, respectively). Conclusions: GDF15 is a plasma marker that responds to the treatment of unresected LA-NSCLC with cCRT and metformin. GDF15 levels correspond with tumor volume and increased GDF15 levels predict for poor RFS and OS. These results require validation in larger clinical trial datasets.
Gut microbiota changes are associated with prolonged neutropenia after induction treatment of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Sørum Maria , Boulund Ulrika , De Pietri Silvia , Weischendorff Sarah , Enevold Christian , Rathe Mathias , Als-Nielsen Bodil , Hasle Henrik , Pamp Sünje , Stokholm Jakob , Müller Klaus
Published: April 2024

Prolonged neutrophil recovery during acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment increases infection risk and delays chemotherapy. Emerging evidence implicates the gut microbiota in neutrophil reconstitution after chemotherapy. We explored the interplay between the gut microbiota and neutrophil dynamics, including neutrophil chemoattractants, in 51 children with newly-diagnosed ALL. Daily absolute neutrophil count (ANC), weekly plasma chemokines (CXCL1 and CXCL8), granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), and fecal samplings were monitored until day 29 during ALL induction treatment. Fecal sequencing by 16S rRNA revealed an overall significant reduction in bacterial diversity and Enterococcus overgrowth throughout the induction treatment. Prolonged neutropenia (ANC < 0.5x109 cells/L at day 36) and elevated chemokines levels were associated with decreased abundance of genera from the Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae families, decreased Veillonella genus, and Enterococcus overgrowth from diagnosis and throughout induction treatment. G-CSF was upregulated in response to neutropenia but unrelated to microbiota changes. Overall, this study reveals that diminished abundance of specific intestinal commensals and Enterococcus overgrowth are associated with delayed neutrophil reconstitution and increased chemokine signaling. These findings enhance our understanding of the mechanisms behind the huge variability in neutrophil reconstitution post-chemotherapy, emphasizing the need for gut microbiota-sparing strategies to minimize the impact of gut dysbiosis on immune recovery.
Demographic Structure and Comparative Advantages: Theory and Evidence
Authors: Lo Chu-Ping , Yang Chih-Hai
Published: April 2024

We present a simple model to address how the demographic structure of a country determines trade pattern. A country with a higher ratio of youth in its workforce demonstrates more learning-by-doing capability and is associated with a faster productivity catch-up to a technology frontier country, thereby gaining comparative advantages in more industries and thus higher incomes. This theoretical prediction is supported by cross-country evidence obtained from a system GMM estimation. We find that the age group 25-44 has the largest influence on productivity catch-up. Moreover, a high quality of human capital among those who study abroad significantly facilitates productivity catch-up.
JEL classifications: J21, J24, O33, O47
Identification of truncated variants in GLI family zinc finger 3 (GLI3) associated with polydactyly
Authors: Wang Run-Yan , Xiong Qin , Chang Si-Hua , Jin Jie-Yuan , Xiang Rong , Zeng Lei , Yu Fang
Published: April 2024

Background
Polydactyly is a prevalent congenital anomaly with an incidence of 0.3–3.6 per 1000 live births. GLI family zinc finger 3 (GLI3) is a classical causative gene of polydactyly, and serves as a pivotal transcription factor in the hedgehog signaling pathway, regulating the development of the anterior-posterior axis in limbs.
Methods
Three pedigrees of polydactyly patients were enrolled from Hunan Province, China. Pathogenic variants were identified by whole-exome sequencing (WES) and Sanger sequencing.
Results
Three variants of GLI3 were identified in these three families, including a novel deletion variant (c.1372del, p.T458QfsX44), a novel insertion-deletion (indel) variant (c.1967_1968delinsAA, p.S656X), and a nonsense variant (c.2374C > T, p.R792X). These variants were present exclusively in patients but not in healthy individuals.
Conclusions
We identified three pathogenic GLI3 variants in polydactyly patients, broadening the genetic spectrum of GLI3 and contributing significantly to genetic counseling and diagnosis for polydactyly.
Comparative Study of Thermal Stability and Thermal Degradation Kinetics of Poly(Vinyl Ethers) with Different Side Groups
Authors: Plachouras Nikolaos V. , Michos–Stavridis Kosmas , Zouganelis Stavros , Pitsikalis Marinos
Published: April 2024

This study is focused on the thermal stability and the thermal degradation kinetics of two poly(vinyl ethers), PVEs, with different side groups. The objective was to determine how the nature of the side group affects the thermal properties of these materials. Poly(2–Phthalimide Ethyl Vinyl Ether), PPEVE, was derived via zirconocene–mediated cationic homopolymerization, and poly(2–Amino Ethyl Vinyl Ether), PAEVE, was obtained by hydrazinolysis of PPEVE. The thermal stability was investigated employing thermogravimetric analysis, TGA, and differential thermogravimetry, DTG, at six different heating rates. The thermal decomposition kinetics data were analyzed using the Ozawa–Flynn–Wall, OFW, and Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose, KAS, “model–free” methods to calculate the activation energies, \(Ea\), and subsequently the appropriate mathematical model or mechanism to describe the Thermal Decomposition process for each individual homopolymer.
Riparian landscape change: A spatial approach for quantifying change and development of a restoration potential model
Authors: Stieger Martin , McKenzie Paul
Published: April 2024

Natural river landscapes can be biodiversity hotspots but are one of the most human altered ecosystems with habitats significantly damaged around the world, and a third of fish populations threatened with extinction. While riparian ecosystems have been negatively altered by anthropogenic activities, effective planning and restoration strategies can reverse negative impacts by improving habitat quality. However, restoring rivers requires appropriate data on current riparian health while also considering priorities for different stakeholders. To address this, a Geographic Information System (GIS) was used to create a new and transferable restoration priority model based on a section of the river Linth in Switzerland as a case study. The restoration priority model is founded on connectivity, river condition, national priority species and species hotspots. Landscape change of the riparian zone was analyzed using aerial imagery and landscape metrics. Almost a quarter of rivers within the study area were considered high or very high restoration priority, with many aquatic species set to benefit from restoration. From 1946 to 2019, the riparian landscape became highly fragmented due to significant growth in impervious surfaces and a loss of agricultural land. The GIS model provides a tool by which environmental agencies can manage natural features over large scales, while also planning priorities and targeting conservation strategies to the areas of greatest need.
The correlation between non-suicidal self-injury and mobile phone social media dependence in adolescents
Authors: Wei Honghui , Zhang Ying , Sun Ningning , Wang Yue , Li Yang
Published: April 2024

Objective: To explore the correlation between non-suicidal self-injury behavior and mobile social media dependence in adolescents, and to provide reference for intervention of non-suicidal self-injury.
Methods: A total of 99 adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury behavior in our hospital from January 2022 to December 2023 were selected as the case group, and 97 healthy students were selected as the control group. Ottawa Self-injury Questionnaire, non-suicidal self-injury questionnaireand mobile phone social media dependence questionnaire were used for assessment, and Spearman correlation analysis was used to explore the correlation between the scores of Ottawa self-injury questionnaire, non-suicidal self-injury questionnaire and mobile phone social media dependence questionnaire.
Results: The total score of mobile phone social media dependence questionnaire, conflict and withdrawal scores of the study group were higher than those of the control group, the difference was statistically significant . The scores of the functional subscale of the Ottawa non-suicidal self-injury questionnaire in the case group were higher than those in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant. The scores of the five factors in the functional subscale of the Ottawa non-suicidal self-injury questionnaire , internal emotion regulation, social influence, external emotion regulation, sensation seeking and addiction characteristics, were positively correlated with the scores of the five factors in the mobile phone social media dependence questionnaire, salience, social promoting, compulsive, conflict and withdrawal (r=0.155-0.442). The scores of non-suicidal self-injury questionnaire were positively correlated with the conflict, withdrawal and total scores of the mobile phone social media dependence questionnaire (r=0.145-0.209). The factors influencing non-suicidal self-injury include education level, conflict.
Conclusion: There is a correlation between non-suicidal self-injury and mobile phone social media dependence in adolescents, which provides reference for the treatment of non-suicidal self-injury in the future.
Corrosion behavior of additively manufactured FeCrAl in out-of-pile light water reactor environments
Authors: Rebak Raul , Umretiya Rajnikant , Qu Haozheng , Yin Liang , Jurewicz Timothy , Gupta Vipul , Drobnjak Marija , Knussman Michael , Hoffman Andrew
Published: April 2024

Iron-Chromium-Aluminum (FeCrAl) alloys are candidate materials for the cladding of Light Water Reactor (LWR) fuels. The FeCrAl alloys in general range in Cr composition from 12% (C26M) to 21% (APMT). In this work the general corrosion behavior of Additively Manufactured (AM) C26M coupons was compared to the behavior of traditional Powder Metallurgy (PM) coupons. Immersion testing were conducted for 12 months at 288°C and 330°C in pure water containing either oxygen or hydrogen. Results show that the mass change of AM specimens in hydrogenated water was like the mass change of PM specimens. In oxygenated water, the mass change of AM coupons was higher and less reproducible than for the PM coupons. Porosity in the AM specimens make their behavior less predictable in high temperature water.
Integrated Intelligent Assistant for Visually Impaired
Authors: S Syed Ameer Abbas , M Hareharan , I Sivakumar
Published: April 2024

A person with a visual impairment finds it more difficult to recognize objects, avoid obstacles, and navigate independently. Visual impairment makes more difficult for those people to learn about their surroundings. Navigating through spaces becomes intricate, as the individual must rely on other senses and aids like canes or guide dogs to detect obstacles and safely maneuver through surroundings. Recognizing objects becomes a complex endeavor, as visual cues are limited or absent, leading to difficulties in identifying items, faces, or even familiar places. The proposed work introduces a brand-new visual assistance solution by creating a single, intelligent device that empowers visually impaired users through its multifaceted functionalities obtained by combining deep learning and machine learning algorithms. Image processing techniques such You Only Look Once (YOLO), Haar-Cascade algorithm is used for object detection and face recognition with the help of camera and other sensors. A comprehensive case study was conducted, demonstrating the real-time capabilities of YOLOv8 in detecting objects and obstacles on public roads, offering empirical evidence of its effectiveness in assisting visually impaired individuals in navigating urban environments safely and independently. The suggested prototype, in comparison to the white cane, provides the visually impaired with increased accessibility, comfort, and ease of navigation, according to the results.
Harnessing Big Data and Data Science for Enhanced Efficiency in Higher Education: An Exhaustive Review and Assessment
Authors: Syed Sadia , Albalawi Eid Mohammad
Published: April 2024

The digitalization of higher education has introduced a wealth of data, presenting significant opportunities for utilizing Big Data and data science analytics to streamline processes and improve institutional efficiency. This paper delves into the practical applications of Big Data and data science analytics across various domains of higher education, including student enrolments management, academic advising, learning analytics, and institutional effectiveness. Through the implementation of predictive analytics, personalized interventions, and data-informed decision-making, institutions can optimize resource allocation, enhance student outcomes, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. The paper explores the benefits, challenges, and future prospects associated with integrating Big Data and data science analytics, emphasizing their transformative potential in shaping teaching methodologies, learning experiences, and institutional practices. By fostering collaboration and embracing innovation, higher education institutions can fully leverage the power of Big Data and data science analytics to drive student success and achieve institutional objectives.
Pacific Decadal Oscillation and ENSO Forcings of Northerly Low-level Jets on the Eastern Andes and Precipitation Extremes in South America
Authors: Mu Ye , Jones Charles , Carvalho Leila , Xue Lulin , Liu Changhai , Ding Qinghua
Published: April 2024

The hydrological cycle in South America during austral summer, including extreme precipitation and floods, is significantly influenced by northerly Low-Level Jets (LLJs) along the eastern Andes. The LLJ represents a synoptic weather event characterized by different types (Central, Northern, and Andes). Given that numerous characteristics of the LLJ are sensitive to large-scale climate forcing originating remotely, this study aims to understand how tropical forcings, such as the El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), regulate the duration and frequency of each LLJ type on low-frequency time scales and related impacts in precipitation changes based on reanalysis and gauge-based datasets. Our analysis reveals that ENSO and PDO are pivotal in driving the variability of LLJs over the past sixty years. Specifically, the central LLJ type is more prevalent during El Niño years and warm PDO phases, leading to heightened extreme precipitation in southern South America. Conversely, La Niña years during cold PDO phases tend to favor the Northern and Andes LLJs, which are associated with increased precipitation extremes in the western and southeastern parts of the Amazon. Typically, LLJs tend to persist longer during these favored conditions, causing more pronounced precipitation events in the areas under the influence of the LLJs. This study enhances our understanding of the influence of large-scale atmospheric forcings on the regional precipitation dynamics in South America.
Enhancing Limonene production by probing the metabolic network through time-series metabolomics data
Authors: Khanijou Jasmeet Kaur , Scipion Clement P. M. , Borkar Shreyash , Chen Xixian , Chew Wee
Published: April 2024

Introduction
Limonene is a monoterpene with diverse applications in food, medicine, fuel, and material science. Recently, engineered microbes have been used to biosynthesize target biochemicals such as limonene.
Objective
Metabolic engineering has shown that factors such as feedback inhibition, enzyme activity or abundance may contribute to the loss of target biochemicals. Incorporating a hypothesis driven experimental approach can help to streamline the process of improving target yield.
Method
In this work, time-series intracellular metabolomics data from Escherichia coli cultures of a wild-type strain engineered to overproduce limonene (EcoCTs3) was collected, where we hypothesized having more carbon flux towards the engineered mevalonate (MEV) pathway would increase limonene yield. Based on the topology of the metabolic network, the pathways involved in mixed fermentation were possibly causing carbon flux loss from the MEV pathway. To prove this, knockout strains of lactate dehydrogenase(LDH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase-alcohol dehydrogenase (ALDH-ADH) were created.
Results
The knockout strains showed 18 to 20 folds more intracellular mevalonate accumulation over time compared to the EcoCTs3 strain, thus indicating greater carbon flux directed towards the MEV pathway thereby increasing limonene yield by 8 to 9 folds.
Conclusion
Ensuring high intracellular mevalonate concentration is therefore a good strategy to enhance limonene yield and other target compounds using the MEV pathway. Once high intracellular mevalonate concentration has been achieved, the limonene producing strain can then be further modified through other strategies such as enzyme and protein engineering to ensure better conversion of mevalonate to downstream metabolites to produce the target product limonene.
Rapid digestion of proteins with a dual-enzyme microreactor featuring 3-D pores formed by dopamine/polyethyleneimine/ acrylamide-coated KIT-6 molecular sieve
Authors: Yuan Fang-Fang , Lu Xin , Han Xiao-Jie , Qin Ting-Ting , Wang Pei , Bai Hai-jiao
Published: April 2024

The microreactor with two types of immobilized enzymes, exhibiting excellent orthogonal performance, represents an effective approach to counteract the reduced digestion efficiency resulting from the absence of a single enzyme cleavage site, thereby impacting protein identification. In this study, we developed a hydrophilic dual-enzyme microreactor characterized by rapid mass transfer and superior enzymatic activity. Initially, we selected KIT-6 molecular sieve as the carrier for the dual-IMER due to its three-dimensional network pore structure. Modification involved co-deposition of polyethyleneimine (PEI) and acrylamide (AM) as amine donors, along with dopamine to enhance material hydrophilicity. Remaining amino and double bond functional groups facilitated stepwise immobilization of trypsin and Glu-C. Digestion times for bovine serum albumin (BSA) and bovine hemoglobin (BHb) on the dual-IMER were significantly reduced compared to solution-based digestion (1 minute vs. 36 hours), resulting in improved sequence coverage (91.30% vs. 82.7% for BSA; 90.24% vs. 89.20% for BHb). Additionally, the dual-IMER demonstrated excellent durability, retaining 96.08% relative activity after 29 reuse cycles. Enhanced protein digestion efficiency can be attributed to several factors: (1) KIT-6's large specific surface area, enabling higher enzyme loading capacity; (2) Its three-dimensional network pore structure, facilitating faster mass transfer and substance diffusion; (3) Orthogonality of trypsin and Glu-C enzyme cleavage sites; (4) The spatial effect introduced by the chain structure of PEI and glutaraldehyde's spacing arm, reducing spatial hindrance and enhancing enzyme-substrate interactions; (5) Mild and stable enzyme immobilization. The KIT-6-based dual-IMER offers a promising technical tool for protein digestion, while the PDA/PEI/AM-KIT-6 platform holds potential for immobilizing other proteins or active substances.
Performance of standardized patient reported outcomes developed for spondyloarthritis in primary and concomitant forms of fibromyalgia
Authors: Tsiami Styliani , Dukatz Piet , Gkelaki Maria , Sewerin Philipp , Kiltz Uta , Baraliakos Xenofon
Published: April 2024

Background. In spondyloarthritides (SpA) and fibromyalgia (FM), patients suffer from generalized pain. The impact of FM on PRO validated in SpA has not been systematically studied.
Objective. Study the performance of PROs developed for SpA in patients with primary (p) FM without chronic inflammatory-rheumatic disease vs. SpA without and with concomitant (c) FM.
Methods. Patients with pFM, axSpA or PsA and indication for treatment adaptation were prospectively included. Standardized PROs were assessed: BASDAI, ASDAS-CRP, DAPSA, patient´s global assessment, BASFI, LEI, MASES, SPARCC Enthesitis Score and FIQ.
Results. 300 patients were included (100/diagnosis). More males were found in axSpA vs. PsA and pFM group (67, 33 and 2/100, respectively), while 12 axSpA (axSpA+) and 16 PsA (PsA+) patients had cFM. pFM patients showed significantly higher scores in all assessments vs. axSpA or PsA, with exception of ASDAS-CRP (3.3±0.6 in FM vs. 3.1±1.0 in axSpA) and duration of low lumbar morning stiffness. Similar results were also found in the subanalysis of female patients only. In addition, patients with axSpA+ or PsA+ showed no differences to patients with pFM, while significantly higher scores were found for FM, axSpA+ and PsA+ for almost all FIQ items compared to axSpA- or PsA-.
Conclusions. PROs originally developed for axSpA or PsA need to be interpreted differently in the presence or absence of cFM. ASDAS-CRP and duration of lumbar morning stiffness were not affected by cFM. FM-specific questionnaires also showed high scores in patients with SpA with cFM but not in those without.
A novel herbal aromatic essential oil for treating Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: a mass spectrometry and network pharmacology study of the traditional Chinese medicine formula
Authors: Zhan Min , Sun Yuanfang , Yan Jun , Zhang Qiaoxuan , Han Liqiao , Zhang Pengwei , Lin Haibiao , Wan Zemin , Xiao Xue , Li Shasha , Huang Xianzhang
Published: April 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the substance basis and pharmacological mechanism of Dingxiang Shidi Decoction in preventing and treating Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV).
Methods: We employed advanced analytical techniques including UPLC-MS/MS and GC-MS to analyze the chemical components of Dingxiang Shidi Decoction. Network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques were applied to explore its pharmacological mechanisms.
Results: Our study established a comprehensive chemical composition database for Dingxiang Shidi Decoction, integrating UPLC-MS/MS qualitative components, GC-MS qualitative components, and network database entries, comprising 292 chemical compounds. Furthermore, we elucidated potential pharmacologically active components and pathways associated with alleviating CINV symptoms by Dingxiang Shidi Decoction. These pathways include inflammation reduction, modulation of neurotransmitter stimulation in the gastrointestinal tract, and regulation of cellular proliferation and differentiation. Notably, key active ingredients, predominantly aromatic compounds such as sabinene, (-)-α-cubebene, α-copaene, β-caryophyllene, aromandendrene, γ-muurolene, (-)-α-muurolene, α-phellandrene, α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, (+)-δ-cadinene, and Gomisin B, demonstrate significant binding affinity with multiple targets, notably AKT1, BCL2, EGFR, MTOR, and STAT3.
Conclusions: This study sheds light on the substance basis and pharmacological mechanisms of Dingxiang Shidi Decoction in CINV treatment, providing valuable insights for its clinical application and suggesting aromatherapy as a promising therapeutic approach. These findings provide insights into the multifaceted pharmacological mechanisms of Dingxiang Shidi Decoction and its potential applications in clinical settings for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
Stepwise Discriminant Analysis based Optimal Frequency Band Selection and Ensemble Learning for Same Limb MI Recognition
Authors: Meng Yinghui , Zhu Nuo , Li Duan , Nan Jiaofen , Yao Ni , Xia Yongquan , Han Chuang
Published: April 2024

Same limb motor imagery (MI) brain-computer interfaces can effectively overcome the cognitive disassociation problem of the traditional different-limb MI paradigm, and they can reduce the patient burden and extend the functionality of external devices more effectively. However, the electroencephalogram (EEG) MI features of same limb originate from one side of the brain, which poses a great challenge to MI EEG feature mining and selection as well as accurate decoding. To overcome this problem, we propose an adaptive feature selection strategy for subject-specific optimal frequency band based on regularized common spatial pattern (RCSP) and stepwise discriminant analysis, then combine the integrated classification strategy to accurately decode three types of single-limb MI tasks. As there are minor frequency band differences and huge variability for the same limb MI tasks, the optimal frequency band range for each subject was selected by stepwise discriminant analysis, and RCSP was used to extract spatial distribution features, which reduced the influence of the length of the time window and differences of the frequency bands. Then an integrated classification strategy based on multiple efficient classifiers is used for MI accurate recognition. The proposed method obtains 76.58% accuracy in the unilateral limb MI recognition task, which is 12.67%, 9.89%, 6.62%, and 7.90% higher than other traditional decoding methods such as CSP + LDA, FBCSP + LDA, FBCSP + C2CM, and FBCSP + SVM, respectively. Compared with Deep ConvNet and EEGNet, the decoding accuracy is improved by 16.93% and 7.33%, respectively. The experimental results show that our proposed highly efficient method improves the decoding accuracy for classifying different joints of unilateral limbs and has high promotion and application value.
Determination of Different Pollution Levels in Surface Waters for Irrigation Purposes in Two Large Basins with Different Land Uses by Using Multivariate Statistical Techniques
Authors: YURTSEVEN Ibrahim , PAMUKCU-ALBERS Pinar
Published: April 2024

This study aims to explain the spatial patterns of surface water pollution and investigate water quality for irrigation purposes in the Kızılırmak and Yeşilırmak basins in Turkey. Multivariate statistical techniques such as cluster analysis (CA), principal component analysis/factor analysis (PCA/FA), and multiple regression analysis (MRA) were employed to optimize statistical information and modeling of selected water quality parameters based on the Water Quality Index (WQI) and CORINE land use. The CA grouped the more than ten water quality observation stations within those basins into three groups (G1, G2, and G3) based on their quality properties and pollution levels. Backward stepwise mode discriminant analysis (DA) suggested that the two clusters better explained the spatial similarities. The PCA/FA applied to data sets of two special groups calculated three or four factors for both basins, capturing 81.07%, 72.16%, 73.83%, and 84.49% of the total variance, respectively. WQI values ranging from 34.61 to 63.87 showed the irrigation water quality of the sampling stations. Applying MRA to WQI and deriving the main parameters from PCA/FA demonstrated the efficiency of combining WQI and related irrigation water quality parameters analyzed by multivariate statistical techniques in this study. Based on the results of the WQI dissemination map, 48.59% of the Kızılırmak basin and 98.98% of the Yeşilırmak basin fall within the “high restriction” category. In the Yeşilırmak basin, 2.21% of the total basin area is categorized as “severe restriction”. The remaining areas of both basins need “moderate restrictions”. Maps of the WQI dissemination on CORINE land use classes illustrate that the surface water of basins requires some extent of treatment before consumption. The results of this study have been used to identify major problems in terms of irrigation water quality in both basins and contribute to planning processes for decision-makers.
Agriculture Enhancement Using Machine Learning With React
Authors: Lakshmanan V , Ramachandiran R , Ragul B , Pradeep Sanjay
Published: April 2024

Crop recommendation is a crucial duty in agriculture for optimizing crop yield and soil control practices. Traditional techniques rely closely on professional information and manual analysis, which can be time-eating and at risk of human errors. In recent years, machine mastering strategies have emerged as effective gear for automating and improving those obligations. This research paper gives a novel technique to crop and soil advice the usage of gadget getting to know algorithms. The take a look at makes use of a dataset containing various soil attributes together with corresponding crop kinds. Two device learning fashions, logistic regression and random wooded area, are trained at the dataset to expect suitable crops based totally on soil situations. Additionally, an ensemble version using gradient boosting machines (XGBoost) is explored to further improve prediction accuracy. Experimental results display that the proposed device getting to know fashions achieve high accuracy in crop advice, with the XGBoost model outperforming the logistic regression and random forest algorithms. The trained models provide the insights into the relationships among soil attributes and crop suitability, aiding farmers in making informed selections for crop selection. Overall, these studies contribute to the advancement of precision agriculture by way of leveraging gadget gaining knowledge of techniques to decorate crop recommendation systems. The findings have implications for sustainable agriculture practices, aid optimization, and increased crop productivity.
Effectiveness of green cupric oxide nanoparticles for walnut storage pest management
Authors: Rodríguez Maria Rosa , Comelli Nieves Carolina , López Tamara Elizabeth , Matías Mariana del Huerto Sánchez , Denett Gabriel Omar , Bracamonte Daniela Milagros , Pietro Eduardo Daniel , Diez Patricia , González-Baró Ana Cecilia , Sampietro Diego Alejandro
Published: April 2024

Walnut yield and quality are often affected by beetle infestations, particularly those caused by Carpophilus dimidiatus (Fabricius) (Nitidulidae) and Oryzaephilus mercator (L.) (Silvanidae). Beetle damage exposes walnut to microbial food spoilers such as Fusarium species. Insecticides currently used for beetle control are environmentally unfriendly. Pest-suppressing nanomaterials can generate innovative nanopesticide technologies leading to more sustainable and efficient farming practices. This work explores a green synthesis approach for copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) in basic medium by hydrolates obtained from Lippia integrifolia and Pimpinella anisum, denoted as CuO-I and CuO-A, respectively. Characterization through XRD, FT-IR, Raman, UV-Visible absorbance, and AFM techniques, indicated that CuO-A and CuO-I have a size ranging 2-10 nm height. Antifungal assay showed that both have a similar efficacy (MID = 320 µg), 3-fold stronger than CuO- NPs obtained in absence of hydrolates (denotes CuO-W) (MID = 960 µg), with the broadest inhibitory halos (ID = 126-128 mm) observed for CuO-A. Insecticidal activity of CuO-NPs showed a concentration-dependent behavior, with CuO-I showing an effect comparable to diatomaceous earth. SEM images confirm the adhesion of nanoparticles to insect surfaces, which could induce oxygen deprivation and disrupting of metabolic processes. Both CuO-A and CuO-I are promising for their use in integrated pest control in walnut storage.
Effect of gas pressure on the creep and seepage characteristics of low-permeability coal
Authors: Li Xiangchun , Zeng Jianhua , Shi Yaoyu , Zhang Shuhao , Li Xiaowei , Long Yuzheng , Liu Rong , Zhang Liang
Published: April 2024

Coal, as a complex gas-bearing medium, exhibits unique rheological behavior under mining disturbance. However, with increasing mining depth, the creep and seepage mechanisms of low permeability coal remain unclear. Therefore, to investigate the coupled relationship between creep and gas seepage in low permeability coal, time-dependent triaxial experiments were conducted in this study. To consider the effects of gas, a modified creep model based on the Nishihara creep model was developed and validated by numerical simulations and experimental results. The correlation between coal creep and seepage was then analyzed under different gas pressure conditions, showing a significant reduction in Young's modulus during creep. This reduction indicates a strong correlation between creep and gas seepage, which is supported by the agreement between creep strain and permeability curves. In addition, the results show a significant attenuation effect in the seepage process at different gas pressures due to pore pressure and adsorption. It is worth noting that unlike conventional soft coal, no permeability reduction was observed in the initial stage due to the low permeability and stiffness of the coal. And it was shown that the presence of methane accelerated the creep behavior of the coal, resulting in a decrease in permeability. Overall, this study provides important insights into the rheological behavior of low-permeability coal under mining disturbance and sheds light on the mechanisms governing gas seepage in coal.
Automated Audio Dataset Generation Tool for Classification Tasks in Marine Science
Authors: Gnyś Piotr , Szczęsna Gabriela , Domínguez-Brito Antonio C. , Cabrera-Gámez Jorge
Published: April 2024

This study presents a comprehensive data processing pipeline designed to convert diverse labeled audio recordings into a uniform labeled dataset suitable for input into machine learning algorithms. The primary emphasis lies in applying this pipeline to marine audio classification, with an illustrative example from this domain serving as experimental validation for the proposed approach.
Performing 3 Phase Short Circuit Analysis on Single Line Diagram of a Power System using ETAP
Authors: MEHTRE VISHAL VAMAN , Jha Ankit
Published: April 2024

One essential instrument for guaranteeing the secure and dependable operation of power systems is short circuit analysis (SCA). This study looks into the use of ETAP software for SCA on a power system's single line diagram (SLD). The goals of the study are to Emphasize the role that SCA plays in power system protection strategies. Use SLDs to illustrate how the power system is represented. Describe the SCA functionalities of the ETAP software. A summary of the methodology section will be given, detailing how to create and run a SCA within ETAP with the supplied SLD. The main conclusions will be discussed, including the following: • Determination of fault currents at systemically important places. • Determining whether possible equipment overloads occur in fault circumstances.
Classification of FESEM Images of Nanostructures by Noval Deep Learning Algorithm
Authors: Patil Ranispoorti R , N Jayalaxmi G , Choudapur V. H. , Baligar Vishwanth P.
Published: April 2024

SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) takes nanoscale pictures, whereas DL (Deep Learning) analyses data using neural networks. Image interpretation is streamlined by the collaboration of SEM and DL, which automates SEM image analysis and material characterisation. This integration improves productivity by quickly extracting relevant information from enormous datasets, highlighting subtle patterns that would otherwise be difficult to detect manually. Authors of this article consider 3 classes of SEM images of various magnifications and a total of 93 images is being produced for analysis and processing. Authors intend to enhance, categorize, and segment the pictures collected. SEM pictures are classified based on doping substance with the host material pure Cobalt Chromite, Neodymium doped Cobalt Chromite and Lanthanum doped Co-balt Chromite. Image quality and appearance are improved via augmentation techniques. The similarity and complexity of images in all three classes and the inclusion of images of different magnification posed a challenge in classification which hinder the accuracy rate of classification process. So authors use the statistical results of the tests to create semi-automatic method for classifying and labeling pictures generated by the SEM. Authors propose a low complexity algorithm, aimed to extract features and increase model performance. This approach offers efficiency gains by minimizing time and computational resources compared to pre-trained models, while maintaining consistent classification results. Achieved a training and testing accuracy of 100% and 78.26% respectively. SEM pictures are also classified using CNN and pre-trained models VGG16, Inception v3. To evaluate and compare performance, comparative studies are used to measure model correctness. SEM images are segmented into regions of interest using an integrated technique that combined the watershed and contours. A segmented picture is used to calculate the surface area of a Cobalt Chromite sample. The surface area of material is determined to be 41,02,628 nm 2 .
Gelation of Hydrophilic Polymer Bearing Metal-coordination Units with Au(III) Ions: Application to Synthesis of Porous Gold
Authors: Nagai Daisuke , Mano Aoi , Ishii Takafumi , Okamoto Shusuke
Published: April 2024

We describe an environmentally benign method for the synthesis of porous gold by gelation of a hydrophilic polymer bearing metal-coordination units (thiocarbonyl groups, denoted as HPMC) and Au(III) ions. The gelation was performed by dropwise addition of a dispersed aqueous solution of HPMC to an aqueous solution of Au(III) in a test tube. Concentrations of 15 and 20 wt% HPMC provided elongated and fibrous gels. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy analyses of the fibrous gels revealed the formation of porous gels containing Au nanoparticles. Calcination of the polymer parts in the porous gels at 550 oC for 7 h, followed by self-assembly of the remaining Au nanoparticles, provided the golds with micrometer-size pores. Thermogravimetric analysis of the porous golds indicated that its purity was high (96∼99%). Because the metal-coordination unit has soft basic characteristics, it preferentially coordinate to soft acidic noble metal ions such as platinum group metal ions, Ag(I), and so on. Therefore, this method will be applied to synthesis of various porous metals.
Leveraging File System Characteristics for Ransomware Mitigation in Linux Operating System Environments
Authors: Guo Ju , Liang Hua , Long Jinting
Published: April 2024

A novel approach to mitigating ransomware attacks on Linux systems is introduced in this study, which capitalizes on the unique characteristics of the Linux file system. This method significantly deviates from traditional ransomware mitigation strategies that primarily depend on reactive detection algorithms. Instead, it introduces proactive system-level enhancements that preemptively secure file systems against a spectrum of both known and emerging ransomware threats. The core innovation of this approach lies in its strategic utilization of the structural benefits of Linux file system architectures, providing a robust framework for shielding against sophisticated and evolving ransomware attacks. These enhancements not only bolster security but also ensure minimal impact on system performance, thereby offering a balanced and effective solution to the persistent challenge of ransomware in Linux environments. By integrating behavior-based detection mechanisms with real-time system monitoring, this approach demonstrates a substantial improvement in both detection accuracy and response times, setting a new standard for ransomware defense strategies in Linux systems.
Celâleddin Mengüberdi Zamanında Hârizmşahların İdari ve Mali Gerileyişi
Authors: Burgu Abdullah
Published: April 2024

Dönemin kroniklerinin verdiği bilgiler ve klasik anlayışa göre Hârizmşahlar Devleti özellikle Moğollarla yapmış oldukları mücadeleler neticesinde yıpranmışlardır. Nihayetinde de Anadolu’ya kadar gelerek 627/1230 yılında Türkiye Selçukluları ile Yassıçemen önlerinde karşılaşmışlar ve bir daha toparlanma şansını yitirmişlerdir. Hâlbuki Hârizmşahları çöküşe sürükleyen esas sebeplerin başında bürokratik geleneğin zayıflaması ve mali sistemin bozulması gelmekteydi. Nitekim Hârizmşahların Orta Çağın en önemli ve hareketli kavşak noktasında kurulup, ticari ve zirai mali imkânlara sahip bir devlet oldukları bilinmektedir. Söz konusu imkânların yitirilmesi ve idari sistemin suistimallerle yıpratılması neticesinde güçlerini kaybetmeye başlamışlardır. Diğer yandan Celâleddin Hârizmşah’ın etrafında ilişki ağlarını yönlendirebilecek bir nüfuza sahip devlet adamları ve emirler yer almışlardır. Yıkılışa giden süreçte devlet adamlarının hırs ve iç çekişmelerini bulmak mümkündür. Bu çalışma Hârizmşahlar Devletinin son dönemlerinde vezaret, mali dîvânlar ve kâtiplerin sebep olduğu idari krizleri ve mali sistemin bozulmasından dolayı yaşanan aksaklıkları incelemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Nitekim Hârizmşahları içeren günümüz çalışmalarında idari ve mali gerileyiş süreci neredeyse hiç ele alınmamıştır. Hatta İbrahim Kafesoğlu, Hârîzmşahlar üzerine hazırladığı monografisinde bu durumun ihmal edildiğini itiraf etmektedir. Araştırmada çağdaş müelliflerin verdiği bilgiler doküman analizi metoduyla yorumlanacak, özellikle Celâleddin Hârizmşah ’ın etrafında şekillenen yıkılış süreci prosopografik tahlile tabi tutulacaktır. Gerektiğinde modern araştırmaların konuyla ilgili kısmi değerlendirmelerine de başvurulacaktır.
Zeki Velidi Togan’ın İbrahim Kafesoğlu’na Cevabı
Authors: Gömeç Saadettin Yağmur
Published: April 2024

Bilindiği üzere Çingiz Han’ın Türklüğü meselesi hem Türkiye, hem de Türkiye dışında pek çok âlimin gündemini meşgul etmiştir. Esasında aynı konu bugün de güncelliğini korumaktadır. O yüzden yıllardır Çingiz ve atalarının kökeni hakkında binlerce çalışma yapılırken, bazan da bu durum ilim adamlarının arasında tatlı münakaşalara sebep olmaktadır. İşte onlardan birisi de bundan yetmiş bir yıl önce Prof. Dr. İbrahim Kafesoğlu ile Prof. Dr. Zeki Velidi Togan arasında yaşanmıştır. Zeki Velidi Togan kendi bakış açısına göre Çingiz Han’ın Türk olabileceğini ileri sürerken, rahmetli İbrahim Kafesoğlu da Togan üzerinden hareketle karşı tezi, yani onun Türk olmadığını ispat etmeye çalışmıştır. Buna bağlı olarak Prof. Dr. İbrahim Kafesoğlu 1953 senesinde İ.Ü. Edebiyat Fakültesi Tarih Dergisi’nin 5. cilt, 8. sayısında “Türk Tarihinde Moğollar ve Cengiz Meselesi” adıyla, Prof. Dr. Zeki Velidi Togan’a yönelik bir eleştiri makalesi yayınlamıştır. Bunun üzerine Zeki Velidi Togan da aşağıda metnini verdiğimiz “Doc İbrahim Kafesoğluna Cavabım” adlı yazıyı hazırlayıp, o zamanının bütün ilgililerine ya elden vermiş ya da göndermiştir.
Evaluation of water management effects on potato yield and water productivity in northeast Iran using the SWAP model
Authors: Mustafavi Babukani Mehsa , Hashminejhad Youssef , Armin Mohammad , Maravi Hamid , Noferest Kourosh Shojaei
Published: April 2024

The agro-hydrological SWAP model was employed for simulation of evapotranspiration, yield, and water productivity of potato under six irrigation scenarios (100, 90, 80, 70, 60, and 50% potato water requirement (WR)) in Fariman, Ghoochan, and Golmakan in the northeast Iran. The results showed that the SWAP model well-simulated potato yield and water productivity. The model slightly overestimates the potato yield and underestimates the water productivity. The results revealed that irrigation scheduling is an important factor effecting on evapotranspiration, yield, and water productivity of potatoes. By decreasing irrigation water to 50% WR, potato evapotranspiration and yield decreased in all three study areas. However, potato water productivity increased in Fariman and Golmakan and decreased in Ghoochan, as irrigation volume decreased to 50% WR. In Fariman and Golmakan, irrigation at the rate of 80% WR led to the best irrigation management to have maximum water productivity (2.96 and 2.48 kg m−3, respectively) and acceptable potato yield (21,376.2 and 10,998.7 kg ha−1). In Ghoochan, by adopting the irrigation scenario at the level of 90% WR, the potato yield decreased by approximately 7.6% compared to the full irrigation conditions. However, the highest amount of water productivity (2.27 kg m−3) was achieved.
The Prevalence of Contact Lens Wear and Improper Use Among Students of Al-Baha University, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bashir Mahadi , Alghamdi Ali Hendi , Ahmed Aimun A. E. , Taishan Sarah S. , Taishan Wafaa S. , Alghamdi Mohammed G. , Alghamdi Hind A. Hendi , Alsakka Lara M. , Alghamdi Njood A. , Alzahrani Hadeel M. , Alghamdi Asail S.
Published: April 2024

Background

This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and practice of contact lens wear (CLW) among Al-Baha University medical students.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out using an online self-administered questionnaire via Google Forms. The questionnaire had three domains: sociodemographic characteristics of the participants, CLW hygiene practices, and CLW-related complications.

Results

A total of 432 students were enrolled. Almost half of them (203,47%) were CLs wearers. Almost half of the participants, 95 (46.8%), used CL for therapeutic and 108 (53.2%) cosmetic purposes. 81 (40%) wore their CLs for a duration of (1-10 hours/day), 149 (73.4%) did not sleep while wearing their CLs, 61 (30%) shared theirs with others, 110 (54.2%) washed their hands before putting on their CLs and 90 (44.2%) replaced their CL cleaning solution regularly. Only 10 (5%) of the participants did not experience any complications related to CLW, while 108(52.6%), 102 (50%), and 97 (47.8%) experienced dry eye, tears, and foreign body sensations, respectively. Moderate satisfaction of the users was reported.

Conclusion

The medical students at Al-Baha University showed a high CLW ratio and used CL predominantly for cosmetic reasons; both male and female students were very aware of hygienic practices, and moderate satisfaction, with moderate complications, was reported.