bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preventing Sexual Harassment in Higher Education: A Framework for Prevention Science Program Development
Authors: Crusto Cindy A. , Hooper Lisa M. , Arora Ishita S.
Published: April 2024

Sexual harassment is an intractable problem that harms the students, community, culture, and success of institutes of higher education (IHEs). The alarming prevalence of sexual harassment at IHEs highlights the urgent need for effective prevention programs. However, there are few empirically supported preventive interventions that effectively target the factors that most impact the determinants, trajectory, and short- and intermediate-term effects of sexual harassment. In this paper, we overview the problem of sexual harassment and propose an organizing framework to help IHEs develop effective interventions to prevent sexual harassment. Guided by prevention science, we propose a framework—modified from SAMHSA’s (2019) guidelines for prevention practitioners—that underscores the criticality of trauma- and equity-informed characteristics in prevention programs. We offer a discussion on how IHEs must consider and evaluate the empirical evidence of effectiveness, flexibility, cultural competency, and sustainability when developing and adapting prevention programs to reduce and—ultimately—ameliorate sexual harassment. We conclude with recommendations that can provide a roadmap for higher education stakeholders and researchers to prevent this urgent public health concern.
Correlation and modal analysis techniques for the study of the VIV response of a twin-box deck based on 3D LES simulations
Authors: Álvarez Antonio J. , Nieto Félix
Published: April 2024

Twin-box decks are prone to vortex-induced vibration (VIV) at moderate wind speeds, and previous studies have shown a complex interplay between the flow and the two parallel box girders. OpenFOAM is used to model the aerodynamic and aeroelastic responses of the twin-box deck of the Stonecutters Bridge by means of 3D LES simulations. Two cases are thoroughly analysed under smooth incoming flow: (i) static deck and ii) heave peak amplitude response at VIV excitation. The computational data provided by the CFD simulations have been exploited aiming at better understanding the complex aerodynamic and aeroelastic phenomena taking place. First, spanwise correlation analyses are applied to understand the level of organisation of the forcing flow actions, and identify the regions of the deck affected by different flow structures. Second, three different mode decomposition techniques (POD, SPOD and DMD) are applied to the time-dependent pressure distributions, revealing the pivotal role played by the leeward box in the twin-box deck response under wind action. The modal analyses are of utmost interest in the development of Reduced Order Models (ROM) for the VIV response of twin-box long-span bridges.
Trends and amount changes of temperature and precipitation under future projections in high–low groups and intra-period for the Eastern Black Sea, the Wettest Basin in Türkiye
Authors: Nacar Sinan , Şan Murat , Kankal Murat , Okkan Umut
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the possible effects of climate change on temperature and precipitation variables in the Eastern Black Sea Basin, Türkiye’s wettest and flood-prone region. The outputs of three GCMs under historical, RCP4.5, and RCP8.5 scenarios were downscaled to regional scale using the multivariate adaptive regression splines method. The future monthly temperature and precipitation for 12 stations in the basin were projected for three periods: the 2030s (2021–2050), 2060s (2051–2080), and 2090s (2081–2100). In addition to relative changes, high and low groups and intra-period trends were analyzed for the first time using innovative methods. For the pessimistic scenario, an increase of 3.5 °C in the interior and 3.0 °C in the coastal areas of the basin is projected. For the optimistic scenario, these values are expected to be 2.5 and 2.0 °C, respectively. A decrease in precipitation is projected for the interior region, and a significant increase is expected for the eastern and coastal areas of the basin, especially in spring. This result indicates that floods will occur frequently coastal areas of the basin in the coming periods. Also, although the monotonic trends of temperatures during periods are higher than precipitation in interior regions, these regions may have more uncertainty as their trends are in different directions of low and high groups of different scenarios and GCMs and contribute to all trends, especially precipitation.
Phosphorus fertilisation differentially affects morpho-physiological traits and yield in soybean exposed to water stress
Authors: Salim Mohammad , Chen Yinglong , Solaiman Zakaria M. , Siddique Kadambot H. M.
Published: April 2024

Background and aims

Soybean plants frequently encounter challenges such as phosphorus (P) deficiency and water stress in many regions. However, the mechanisms governing low P and water stress tolerance in soybeans at different growth stages remain unclear. This study investigates the effect of P availability and water stress on soybean growth, morpho-physiological traits, and seed yield.

Methods

We conducted experiments using the soybean genotype (PI 561271) grown under two P levels (10 or 60 mg P kg−1 dry soil) with three watering conditions: well-watered (WW), early water stress (EWS) and terminal water stress (TWS). Plant assessments occurred at the vegetative, flowering, seed formation, and maturity stages.

Results

Water stress decreased leaf area, shoot and root dry weights, root length, photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, total carboxylates, water use, water use efficiency, shoot, root and seed P contents, seed nitrogen contents, and seed yield compared to WW at the corresponding P level and growth stage. P60 significantly increased all parameters except P use efficiency (PUE) under all water treatments. EWS plants supplemented with P60 exhibited the highest root dry weight, root length and total carboxylates. Notably, flowering and seed formation stages had the highest carboxylate proportions (oxalic, malic, malonic and citric acids) under WW and EWS at P60. P10 had significantly higher PUE than P60, irrespective of water treatments during flowering and seed formation, while the opposite trend occurred at the maturity stage. Seed protein content significantly varied between P treatments regardless of the water stress.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the adverse impacts of combined low P and water stress on soybean growth, morpho-physiological traits, seed yield and protein content. Moreover, increased P availability alleviated the adverse effects of water stress, highlighting the importance of adequate P fertilisation for soybean resilience to water stress.
Exploring the effect of perceived safety in first/last mile mode choices
Authors: Tzouras Panagiotis G. , Pastia Valentina , Kaparias Ioannis , Kepaptsoglou Konstantinos
Published: April 2024

Micro-mobility transport modes like e-bikes and e-scooters promise higher flexibility when covering the first/last mile trip from/to the public transport stop/station to the destination point and vice-versa. However, safety concerns about riding a micro vehicle in mixed traffic limit the flexibility of shared mobility modes and make conventional ones still more attractive, e.g., private car and walking. This study investigates the effect of perceived safety in first/last mile mode choice by conducting an image-based double stated preference experiment targeted at potential micro-mobility users and developing ordinal and mixed logistic regression models. The Value-of-Safety (VoS) is introduced. It refers to the additional distance a user is willing to exchange to avoid an unsafe path. Main findings show that shared space can be a middle-ground solution, as it reports lower heterogeneity among individuals in terms of safety perceptions. The intensive use of e-scooters in mixed-traffic decreases the perceived safety of pedestrians, while e-bikers are threatened by the existence of heavy motorized traffic. Low mean VoS is also reported for e-scooters, demonstrating the unwillingness of potential micro-mobility service users to either detour or use this micro vehicle. The mean VoS of the e-bike is estimated as almost equal to that of the private car. It could be, hence, concluded that perceived safety can systematically explain the unobserved disutility of e-bikes.
Exploring Gender Constructs: Colombian and Mexican Biology Teachers’ Perspectives
Authors: Arévalo Daniel Fernando Garzón , Peñaloza Gonzalo
Published: April 2024

The traditional relationship that has been constructed between gender and biological sex has been characterised by a mimetic perception between the two concepts, in which gender seems to reflect sex, or at least to be limited by it. This issue has given rise to reflections, questions and criticisms that try to identify how it is expressed in different social contexts, such as schools. In this sense, this research explores the views of secondary school biology teachers on the concepts of sex and gender. To this end, an exploratory qualitative study was carried out. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with Colombian and Mexican teachers and interpreted using discourse analysis. It is concluded that there is a weak differentiation between the concepts of sex and gender, a perception of neutrality of school biology with regard to identity construction, and a deterministic perspective of biology with regard to gender.
Action Research in Agricultural Development Projects: Case Study of a Dairy Project in Ethiopia
Authors: Ayantunde Augustine A. , Ebro Abule , Berhanu Tinsae , Moges Demewez , van der Lee Jan
Published: April 2024

For development projects, an action research approach is often encouraged to enhance participation of end-users or beneficiaries at various stages of the project to realize the desired social transformation in the target communities. The project under consideration in this study adopted action research for some of its activities. A review of the project action research activities was conducted as part of the strategic reflection for lesson learning and to inform modification where necessary. The objectives of this study were (i) to assess the relevance of action research approach to implementation of project activities and, (ii) to draw lessons for agricultural development projects applying participatory approaches. Fifty-one participants involved in the project action research activities were interviewed on their understanding of action research, its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, and level of participation in action research activities. The perception of the participants interviewed regarding action research approach was that it is relevant and important for the project, and that it has provided a good platform for learning by all participants. Some key lessons from this study for development projects when applying action research approach include the need to focus on a limited number of issues or activities that can produce social transformation in the target communities, and the necessity of adequate planning for monitoring and documentation of learning by participants. From our study, action research is a pertinent approach in community development projects, but it should be well-planned to achieve the desired objective of social transformation in the target communities.
Fabry disease: a rare disorder calling for personalized medicine
Authors: Lerario Sarah , Monti Luigi , Ambrosetti Irene , Luglio Agnese , Pietra Andrea , Aiello Valeria , Montanari Francesca , Bellasi Antonio , Zaza Gianluigi , Galante Antonio , Salera Davide , Capelli Irene , La Manna Gaetano , Provenzano Michele
Published: April 2024

Fabry Disease (FD) is a genetic disease caused by a deficiency in the activity of lysosomal galactosidase A (α-GalA), an enzyme responsible for the catabolism of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3). Since lysosomes are present throughout the body and play a crucial role in catabolism and recycling of cytosolic compounds, FD can affect multiple organs and result in various symptoms, including renal, cardiovascular, neurological, cutaneous, and ophthalmic manifestations. Due to the nonspecific symptoms and the rarity of FD, it is often diagnosed late in life. However, introducing targeted therapies such as enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) and chaperone therapy has significantly improved FD's natural history and prognosis by restoring α-GalA enzyme activity. Despite the advancements, there are limitations to the currently available therapies, which has prompted research into new potential treatments for FD, including alternative forms of enzyme replacement therapy, substrate reduction therapy, mRNA therapy, and genetic therapy. In this review, we analyze the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of FD, with particular emphasis on promising therapeutic opportunities that could shift the treatment of this rare disease from a standardized to a personalized approach soon.
How do plants reduce erosion? An Eco Evidence assessment
Authors: Dahanayake A. C. , Webb J. A. , Greet J. , Brookes J. D.
Published: April 2024

Soil erosion adversely impacts natural and human environments globally. Vegetation is often used as a sustainable approach to mitigate erosion. Although using vegetation to reduce erosion is a widely accepted concept, how different plant traits mitigate different mechanisms of erosion, and the generality of these mechanisms has not been well demonstrated. We developed ten hypotheses on how different plant traits (roots, leaves, and stems) act to reduce erosion through different mechanisms (binding soil particles, promoting suspended sediment deposition and reducing the energy of waves, runoff, and wind). We then conducted a rapid evidence assessment of the scientific literature using the Eco Evidence method. We found strong evidence to support our overarching hypothesis—an increase in plant abundance reduces erosion. We also found support for the specific hypotheses that plant roots bind soil particles and that greater plant stem density and leaf area reduce surface run-off and promote sediment deposition. There was insufficient evidence to support the hypotheses that an increase in stem density or leaf area reduces wave or wind energy. None of our hypotheses were rejected. Species with higher root and stem densities and greater leaf area will be the most effective in mitigating erosion. Our review highlights that there is insufficient evidence regarding some potentially important mechanisms between vegetation and erosion, making these prospective areas for further research. Our results have the potential to aid environmental engineers when designing schemes to reduce erosion and ecologists and managers who are concerned about the conservation and restoration of erosion-prone environments.
Assessing the Physicochemical and Microbiological Condition of Surface Waters in Urabá-Colombia: Impact of Human Activities and Agro-Industry
Authors: Aristizabal-Tique Víctor H. , Gómez-Gallego Diana M. , Ramos-Hernández Ivis T. , Arcos-Arango Yamilet , Polanco-Echeverry Diana N. , Vélez-Hoyos Francisco J.
Published: April 2024

Water resources in the Urabá region of Colombia, one of the most significant banana-producing areas for global consumption, are confronted with substantial challenges due to agro-industrial activities, population growth, untreated wastewater discharge, and excessive groundwater usage. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of surface waters in Urabá, delving into the influence of agro-industrial activities and human interventions on water quality. The evaluation includes a correlation analysis of multiple water quality parameters measured in ten significant rivers of the region. The findings reveal overall water pollution, potentially associated with the lack of wastewater treatment systems in nearby communities and indicate potential seawater intrusion due to groundwater overexploitation from human and agricultural activities. Among the studied rivers, the Apartadó River exhibits the poorest water quality, while the León River demonstrates better conditions, benefiting from less human interference and natural ecosystems.
Multidimensional scaling for big data
Authors: Delicado Pedro , Pachón-García Cristian
Published: April 2024

We present a set of algorithms implementing multidimensional scaling (MDS) for large data sets. MDS is a family of dimensionality reduction techniques using a $$n \times n$$

n
×
n

distance matrix as input, where n is the number of individuals, and producing a low dimensional configuration: a $$n\times r$$

n
×
r

matrix with $$r<<n$$

r
<
<
n

. When n is large, MDS is unaffordable with classical MDS algorithms because their extremely large memory and time requirements. We compare six non-standard algorithms intended to overcome these difficulties. They are based on the central idea of partitioning the data set into small pieces, where classical MDS methods can work. Two of these algorithms are original proposals. In order to check the performance of the algorithms as well as to compare them, we have done a simulation study. Additionally, we have used the algorithms to obtain an MDS configuration for EMNIST: a real large data set with more than 800000 points. We conclude that all the algorithms are appropriate to use for obtaining an MDS configuration, but we recommend to use one of our proposals, since it is a fast algorithm with satisfactory statistical properties when working with big data. An package implementing the algorithms has been created.
On the relationship between various anticoagulants and robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: a single-surgeon serial analysis
Authors: Farzat Mahmoud , Wagenlehner Florian M.
Published: April 2024

Prostate cancer patients often have other health conditions and take anticoagulants. It was believed that surgery under anticoagulants could worsen surgical results. This study aims to explore the safety of robot-assisted prostatectomy in anticoagulated patients, without any exclusion criteria. The study included 500 patients who underwent RARP by a single surgeon between April 2019 and August 2022. Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1, consisting of 376 men (75.2%), did not receive any anticoagulation, while Group 2, with 124 patients (24.8%), received different forms of anticoagulation. Then, the anticoagulation group was divided into 4 subgroups according to their definite anticoagulation: the aspirin 15.6%, new oral anticoagulants (NOAC) 5.4%, Vitamin K antagonist (VKA) 2%, and dual-antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) 1.8% subgroup. Postoperative complications and readmission rates were compared between the two study groups and subgroups. Patients in the combined group 2 were older and they also carried more comorbidities compared to men in group 1 (p = 0.03, p = 0.001).The study groups had similar oncological results, with 40.4% of patients having locally advanced cancers. Catheter days were longer in the anticoagulation group (4.5 vs 4 days, p = 0.001). No significant differences were observed between study groups for overall, minor, and major complications (p = 0.160, 0.100, and 0.915, respectively). In addition, readmissions were low (5.6%) and similar between the study groups (p = 0.635). Under cautious management, RARP under diverse anticoagulation regimes is safe and has comparable results to men with no medications. Further prospective studies must be conducted to confirm our findings.
A stochastic model of ant trail formation and maintenance in static and dynamic environments
Authors: Dodoková Katarína , Malíčková Miriam , Yates Christian , Dussutour Audrey , Bod’ová Katarína
Published: April 2024

Colonies of ants can complete complex tasks without the need for centralised control as a result of interactions between individuals and their environment. Particularly remarkable is the process of path selection between the nest and food sources that is essential for successful foraging. We have designed a stochastic model of ant foraging in the absence of direct communication. The motion of ants is governed by two components - a random change in direction of motion that improves ability to explore the environment, and a non-random global indirect interaction component based on pheromone signalling. Our model couples individual-based off-lattice ant simulations with an on-lattice characterisation of the pheromone diffusion. Using numerical simulations we have tested three pheromone-based model alternatives: (1) a single pheromone laid on the way toward the food source and on the way back to the nest; (2) single pheromone laid on the way toward the food source and an internal imperfect compass to navigate toward the nest; (3) two different pheromones, each used for one direction. We have studied the model behaviour in different parameter regimes and tested the ability of our simulated ants to form trails and adapt to environmental changes. The simulated ants behaviour reproduced the behaviours observed experimentally. Furthermore we tested two biological hypotheses on the impact of the quality of the food source on the dynamics. We found that increasing pheromone deposition for the richer food sources has a larger impact on the dynamics than elevation of the ant recruitment level for the richer food sources.
Neuroimmunology of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Zarate Sara M. , Kirabo Annet , Hinton Antentor O. , Santisteban Monica M.
Published: April 2024

Purpose of Review

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death and chronic disability worldwide. Yet, despite extensive intervention strategies the number of persons affected by CVD continues to rise. Thus, there is great interest in unveiling novel mechanisms that may lead to new treatments. Considering this dilemma, recent focus has turned to the neuroimmune mechanisms involved in CVD pathology leading to a deeper understanding of the brain’s involvement in disease pathology. This review provides an overview of new and salient findings regarding the neuroimmune mechanisms that contribute to CVD.

Recent Findings

The brain contains neuroimmune niches comprised of glia in the parenchyma and immune cells at the brain’s borders, and there is strong evidence that these neuroimmune niches are important in both health and disease. Mechanistic studies suggest that the activation of glia and immune cells in these niches modulates CVD progression in hypertension and heart failure and contributes to the inevitable end-organ damage to the brain.

This review provides evidence supporting the role of neuroimmune niches in CVD progression. However, additional research is needed to understand the effects of prolonged neuroimmune activation on brain function.
Current Perspectives and Progress in Preoperative Portal Vein Embolization with Stem Cell Augmentation (PVESA)
Authors: Barcena Allan John R. , Owens Tyler C. , Melancon Sophie , Workeneh Isias , Tran Cao Hop S. , Vauthey Jean-Nicolas , Huang Steven Y.
Published: April 2024

Portal vein embolization with stem cell augmentation (PVESA) is an emerging approach for enhancing the growth of the liver segment that will remain after surgery (i.e., future liver remnant, FLR) in patients with liver cancer. Conventional portal vein embolization (PVE) aims to induce preoperative FLR growth, but it has a risk of failure in patients with underlying liver dysfunction and comorbid illnesses. PVESA combines PVE with stem cell therapy to potentially improve FLR size and function more effectively and efficiently. Various types of stem cells can help improve liver growth by secreting paracrine signals for hepatocyte growth or by transforming into hepatocytes. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), unrestricted somatic stem cells, and small hepatocyte-like progenitor cells have been used to augment liver growth in preclinical animal models, while clinical studies have demonstrated the benefit of CD133 + bone marrow–derived MSCs and hematopoietic stem cells. These investigations have shown that PVESA is generally safe and enhances liver growth after PVE. However, optimizing the selection, collection, and application of stem cells remains crucial to maximize benefits and minimize risks. Additionally, advanced stem cell technologies, such as priming, genetic modification, and extracellular vesicle-based therapy, that could further enhance efficacy outcomes should be evaluated. Despite its potential, PVESA requires more investigations, particularly mechanistic studies that involve orthotopic animal models of liver cancer with concomitant liver injury as well as larger human trials.
Building a strong programme in sociological aesthetics: Helmut Staubmann’s Sociology in a New Key
Authors: Tanner Jeremy James
Published: April 2024

Helmut Staubmann’s Sociology in a New Key develops a compelling approach to the sociologies of art and the emotions, based primarily on Talcott Parsons’ Action Theory and Georg Simmel’s formal sociology. This article appraises the key theoretical strategies of Staubmann’s contribution, and the insights they afford, with particular reference to recent work in the ‘New Sociology of Art’ and the ‘Strong Programme’ of Jeffery Alexander and the Yale school.
Age and mean platelet volume-based nomogram for predicting the therapeutic efficacy of metoprolol in Chinese pediatric patients with vasovagal syncope
Authors: Du Xiao-Juan , Huang Ya-Qian , Li Xue-Ying , Liao Ying , Jin Hong-Fang , Du Jun-Bao
Published: April 2024

Background

Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is the most common type of orthostatic intolerance in children. We investigated whether platelet-related factors related to treatment efficacy in children suffering from VVS treated with metoprolol.

Methods

Metoprolol-treated VVS patients were recruited. The median duration of therapy was three months. Patients were followed and divided into two groups, treament-effective group and treatment-ineffective group. Logistic and least absolute shrinkage selection operator regressions were used to examine treatment outcome variables. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves, precision–recall (PR) curves, calibration plots, and decision curve analyses were used to evaluate the nomogram model.

Results

Among the 72 patients who complete the follow-up, treatment-effective group and treatment-ineffective group included 42 (58.3%) and 30 (41.7%) cases, respectively. The patients in the treatment-effective group exhibited higher mean platelet volume (MPV) [(11.0 ± 1.0) fl vs. (9.8 ± 1.0) fl, P < 0.01] and platelet distribution width [12.7% (12.3%, 14.3%) vs. 11.3% (10.2%, 12.2%), P < 0.01] than those in the treatment-ineffective group. The sex ratio was significantly different (P = 0.046). A fit model comprising age [odds ratio (OR) = 0.766, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.594–0.987] and MPV (OR = 5.613, 95% CI = 2.297–13.711) might predict therapeutic efficacy. The area under the curve of the ROC and PR curves was computed to be 0.85 and 0.9, respectively. The P value of the Hosmer–Lemeshow test was 0.27. The decision curve analysis confirmed that managing children with VVS based on the predictive model led to a net advantage ranging from 0.01 to 0.58. The nomogram is convenient for clinical applications.

Conclusion

A novel nomogram based on age and MPV can predict the therapeutic benefits of metoprolol in children with VVS.
Water-Based Epidemiological Investigation of Hepatitis E Virus in South Africa
Authors: Salemane Karabo , Coetzee Leanne Z. , Pocock Gina , Genthe Bettina , Taylor Maureen B. , Mans Janet
Published: April 2024

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen that exhibits great host diversity. The primary means of transmission of the virus in low- and middle-income countries is contaminated water, often due to a lack of access to proper sanitation, which leads to faecal contamination of water sources. Environmental surveillance is an important tool that can be used to monitor virus circulation and as an early warning system for outbreaks. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity of HEV in wastewater, surface water (rivers and standpipe/ablution water), and effluent from a piggery in South Africa. A total of 536 water samples were screened for HEV using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Overall, 21.8% (117/536) of the wastewater, river, and ablution water samples tested positive for HEV, whereas 74.4% (29/39) of the samples from the piggery tested positive. Genotyping revealed sequences belonging to HEV genotypes 3 (98%, 53/54) and 4 (2%, 1/54), with subtypes 3c, 3f, and 4b being identified.
Design optimization of Yb-doped fiber lasers for operation in radiation environments
Authors: Tao Mengmeng , Wang Yamin , Wang Ke , Chen Hongwei , Ye Jingfeng , Shen Yanlong , Wang Dahui , Ye Xisheng
Published: April 2024

Radiation hardening should be considered for various active fiber systems operated in adverse environments to reduce their sensitivity to complex ionizing radiations. And, architecture optimization through numerical simulation provides an efficient choice. Here, introducing radiation effects into the conventional fiber laser model, a radiation model concerning the design optimization of low- and moderate-power Yb-doped fiber lasers is developed. And, experiments at different radiation levels up to 750 Gy are carried out for validation, demonstrating the ability of this model to correctly simulate the performance of the Yb-doped fiber laser in harsh environments. Then, with this model, impacts of active fiber length, pump scheme, and pump allocation on the output characteristics of Yb-doped fiber lasers are analyzed numerically. And, optimization of Yb-doped fiber lasers are conducted through architecture design. Simulations show that a proper design with relatively short active fiber and dynamic pump allocation can remarkably improve the radiation tolerance of Yb-doped fiber lasers.
Streamflow prediction using support vector regression machine learning model for Tehri Dam
Authors: Sharma Bhanu , Goel N. K.
Published: April 2024

Accurate and reliable streamflow prediction is critical for optimising water resource management, reservoir flood operations, watershed management, and urban water management. Many researchers have published on streamflow prediction using techniques like Rainfall-Runoff modelling, Time series Models, Data-driven models, Artificial intelligence, etc. Still, there needs to be generalised method practise in the real world. The resolution of this issue lies in selecting different methods for a particular study area. This paper uses the Support vector regression machine learning model to predict the streamflow for the Tehri Dam, Uttarakhand, India, at the Daily and Ten Daily time steps. Two cases are considered in predicting daily and ten daily time steps. The first case includes four input variables: Discharge, Rainfall, Temperature, and Snow cover area. The second case comprises only three input variables: Rainfall, Temperature, and Snow cover area. Radial Kernel is used to overcome the space complexity in the datasets. The K-fold cross-validation is suitable for prediction as it averages the prediction error rate after evaluating the SVR model’s performance on various subsets of the training data. The streamflow data for daily and ten daily time steps have been collected from 2006 to 2020. The calibration period is from 2006 to 2016, and the validation period is from 2017 to 2020. Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) and Coefficient of determination (R2) are used as the accuracy indicator in this manuscript. The lag has been observed in the daily prediction time series when three input variables are considered. For other scenarios, the respective model shows excellent results at both the temporal scale and the parametres, which play a vital role in prediction. The study also enhances the effect on the potential use of input parametres in the machine learning model.
Contribution to advancing aquifer geometric mapping using machine learning and deep learning techniques: a case study of the AL Haouz-Mejjate aquifer, Marrakech, Morocco
Authors: El Mezouary Lhoussaine , Hadri Abdessamad , Kharrou Mohamed Hakim , Fakır Younes , Elfarchouni Abderrahman , Bouchaou Lhoussaine , Chehbouni Abdelghani
Published: April 2024

Groundwater resources in Morocco often face sustainability challenges due to increased exploitation and climate change. Specifically, the Al-Haouz-Mejjate groundwater in the Marrakesh region is faced with overexploitation and insufficient recharge. However, the complex subsurface geometries hamper hydrogeological modeling, characterization, and effective management. Reliably estimating aquifer substrate topography is critical for groundwater models but is challenged by limited direct measurements. This study develops nonlinear machine learning models to infer substrate depths by fusing sparse borehole logs with regional geospatial data. A Gaussian process regression approach provided robust holistic mapping, leveraging flexibility, and uncertainty quantification. Supplementary neural network architectures focus on isolating specific variable relationships, like surface elevation–substrate. Model accuracy exceeded 0.8 R-squared against validation boreholes. Spatial visualizations confirmed consistency across landscape transects. Elevation and piezometric data proved most predictive, though multivariate inputs were required for the lowest errors. The results highlight the power of statistical learning to extract meaningful patterns from disparate hydrological data. However, model opacity and the need for broader training datasets remain barriers. Overall, the work demonstrates advanced machine learning as a promising avenue for illuminating complex aquifer geometries essential for sustainability. Hybrid approaches that use both data-driven and physics-based methods can help solve long-standing problems with hydrogeological characterization.
Effects of semaglutide-loaded lipid nanocapsules on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Domingues Inês , Yagoubi Hafsa , Zhang Wunan , Marotti Valentina , Kambale Espoir K. , Vints Katlijn , Sliwinska Malgorzata Alicja , Leclercq Isabelle A. , Beloqui Ana
Published: April 2024

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a highly prevalent chronic liver disease that can progress to end-stage conditions with life-threatening complications, but no pharmacologic therapy has been approved. Drug delivery systems such as lipid nanocapsules (LNC) are very versatile platforms that are easy to produce and can induce the secretion of the native glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) when orally administered. GLP-1 analogs are currently being studied in clinical trials in the context of MASLD. Our nanosystem provides with increased levels of the native GLP-1 and increased plasmatic absorption of the encapsulated GLP-1 analog (semaglutide). Our goal was to use our strategy to demonstrate a better outcome and a greater impact on the metabolic syndrome associated with MASLD and on liver disease progression with our strategy compared with the oral marketed version of semaglutide, Rybelsus®. Therefore, we studied the effect of our nanocarriers on a dietary mouse model of MASLD, the Western diet model, during a daily chronic treatment of 4 weeks. Overall, the results showed a positive impact of semaglutide-loaded lipid nanocapsules towards the normalization of glucose homeostasis and insulin resistance. In the liver, there were no significant changes in lipid accumulation, but an improvement in markers related to inflammation was observed. Overall, our strategy had a positive trend on the metabolic syndrome and at reducing inflammation, mitigating the progression of the disease. Oral administration of the nanosystem was more efficient at preventing the progression of the disease to more severe states when compared to the administration of Rybelsus®, as a suspension.

Graphical abstract
Generating operators between Banach spaces
Authors: Kadets Vladimir , Martín Miguel , Merí Javier , Quero Alicia
Published: April 2024

We introduce and study the notion of generating operators as those norm-one operators $$G:X\longrightarrow Y$$

G
:
X
⟶
Y

such that for every $$0<\delta <1$$

0
<
δ
<
1

, the set $$\{x\in X:\Vert x\Vert \leqslant 1,\ \Vert Gx\Vert >1-\delta \}$$

{
x
∈
X
:
‖
x
‖
⩽
1
,

‖
G
x
‖
>
1
-
δ
}

generates the unit ball of X by closed convex hull. This class of operators includes isometric embeddings, spear operators (actually, operators with the alternative Daugavet property), and other examples like the natural inclusions of $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

into $$c_0$$

c
0

and of $$L_\infty [0,1]$$

L
∞

[
0
,
1
]

into $$L_1[0,1]$$

L
1

[
0
,
1
]

. We first present a characterization in terms of the adjoint operator, make a discussion on the behaviour of diagonal generating operators on $$c_0$$

c
0

-, $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

-, and $$\ell _\infty $$

ℓ
∞

-sums, and present examples in some classical Banach spaces. Even though rank-one generating operators always attain their norm, there are generating operators, even of rank-two, which do not attain their norm. We discuss when a Banach space can be the domain of a generating operator which does not attain its norm in terms of the behaviour of some spear sets of the dual space. Finally, we study when the set of all generating operators between two Banach spaces X and Y generates all non-expansive operators by closed convex hull. We show that this is the case when $$X=L_1(\mu )$$

X
=

L
1

(
μ
)

and Y has the Radon-Nikodým property with respect to $$\mu $$
μ
. Therefore, when $$X=\ell _1(\Gamma )$$

X
=

ℓ
1

(
Γ
)

, this is the case for every target space Y. Conversely, we also show that a real finite-dimensional space X satisfies that generating operators from X to Y generate all non-expansive operators by closed convex hull only in the case that X is an $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

-space.
A novel additive for enhancing biomass energy production from agro-industrial wastes: synthesis of hydrophobic nanoporous silica aerogel and its effect on methane production
Authors: Gulsen Akbay Habibe Elif , Basgoz Oykum , Guler Omer
Published: April 2024

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is one of the most preferred processes for the treatment of organic waste. However, additional processes such as co-digestion, pretreatment, and additive addition continue to be explored to remove the limits on the applicability of AD. This study investigated the effects of hydrophobic nanoporous silica aerogel (NpSA) synthesized from waste rice husks on the anaerobic co-digestion (AnCD) of the mixture consisting of sewage sludge and fruit processing industry wastes. All bioreactors containing NpSA-free, 0.1 g, 0.2 g, 0.5 g, and 1 g NpSA (0.03–0.3 gNpSA/gVSadded) were operated in a mesophilic-batch process. Biogas and methane yields increased from 346 mL/gVS (NpSA-free) to 387 mL/gVS and from 231 mL/gVS (NpSA-free) to 288 mL/gVS, respectively, with 0.1 g NpSA addition. NpSA additive increased biogas production in all bioreactors compared to the blank. However, biogas production rate and methane content increased faster at lower doses of NpSA. Maximum soluble chemical oxygen demand (sCOD), protein, carbohydrate, and volatile solid (VS) reductions were between 45–71%, 35–54%, 44–65%, and 34–91% for NpSA added mixtures, respectively. The hydrophobic NpSA additive was effective in improving the AnCD performance and biogas/methane production. Experimental results fit the kinetic models frequently preferred in such AD processes. In addition, the possible energy and financial potential of the produced methane were also discussed, and it was determined that the direct sale of methane gas produced by the addition of NpSA in the global market could provide 1.4 $/Lmixture more financial gain than the mixture NpSA-free.

Graphical Abstract
Comprehensive risk factor predictions for 3-year survival among HIV-associated and disseminated cryptococcosis involving lungs and central nervous system
Authors: Wu Luling , Fu Xuemin , Pütz Benno , Zhang Renfang , Liu Li , Song Wei , Weng Ling , Shao Yueming , Zheng Zhihang , Xun Jingna , Han Ximei , Wang Ting , Shen Yinzhong , Lu Hongzhou , Müller-Myhsok Bertram , Chen Jun
Published: April 2024

Background

The global mortality rate resulting from HIV-associated cryptococcal disease is remarkably elevated, particularly in severe cases with dissemination to the lungs and central nervous system (CNS). Regrettably, there is a dearth of predictive analysis regarding long-term survival, and few studies have conducted longitudinal follow-up assessments for comparing anti-HIV and antifungal treatments.

Methods

A cohort of 83 patients with HIV-related disseminated cryptococcosis involving the lung and CNS was studied for 3 years to examine survival. Comparative analysis of clinical and immunological parameters was performed between deceased and surviving individuals. Subsequently, multivariate Cox regression models were utilized to validate mortality predictions at 12, 24, and 36 months.

Results

Observed plasma cytokine levels before treatment were significantly lower for IL-1RA (p < 0.001) and MCP-1 (p < 0.05) when in the survivor group. Incorporating plasma levels of IL-1RA, IL-6, and high-risk CURB-65 score demonstrated the highest area under curve (AUC) value (0.96) for predicting 1-year mortality. For 1-, 2- and 3-year predictions, the single-factor model with IL-1RA demonstrated superior performance compared to all multiple-variate models (AUC = 0.95/0.78/0.78).

Conclusions

IL-1RA is a biomarker for predicting 3-year survival. Further investigations to explore the pathogenetic role of IL-1RA in HIV-associated disseminated cryptococcosis and as a potential therapeutic target are warranted.
The Physiologically Difficult Airway and Management Considerations
Authors: Mosier Jarrod
Published: April 2024

Purpose of Review

This paper evaluates the recent literature regarding the physiologically difficult airway.

Recent Findings

Adverse events mainly desaturation, cardiovascular collapse, and cardiac arrest remain common complications. This risk is greatly increased in patients with altered physiology prior to intubation. Studies published over the last 5 years have explored many aspects surrounding the epidemiology, risks, and approach to managing the physiologically difficult airway.

Important work has been done to identify directly modifiable risks of complications related to the physiologically difficult airway, but a large percentage of patients remain at high risk despite optimizing induction agents, preoxygenation, and first attempt success.
Trajectory analysis of circulating tumor cells through contorted deterministic lateral displacement array for unruptured trapping: a simulation study
Authors: Bhattacharjee Rituraj , Kumar R.
Published: April 2024

During the multistage process of cancer spread, fragments of cells branch out from the primitive tumor tissue and scatter throughout the body by blood flow stream or lymph, which are termed as circulating tumor cells (CTCs), regarded as an important biomarker for early cancer diagnosis. Deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) is one of the most efficient passive type particle isolation techniques which functions on asymmetrical laminar flow diversion around the placed microposts forming an array, based on the critical dimeter of the device. In this simulation study, complete trajectory analysis of CTCs and WBCs has been performed using COMSOL Multiphysics software with respect to the angular orientation of sample inlet channel. A simulated model of an asymmetric DLD array-based microfluidic device with latest empirical expression for critical diameter has been presented with optimized sample inlet orientation so as to maintain perfect separation efficiency of CTCs along with arrangement for unruptured trapping of CTCs and WBCs. The approximate CTC isolation efficiency was obtained above 95% for sample inlet inclinations up to 0.5°, and further tilt showed reduction in efficiency. Migration angle of CTC trajectory for the modeled device was obtained around 15° for both the sample inlet orientations leading to least intermingling of CTCs and WBCs. A smaller number of CTC–WBC interaction points was observed for clockwise sample inlet tilt compared to the anticlockwise displacement reducing possibilities of cell rupture. The shear rate around central microposts was found to be higher as well in clockwise sample inlet orientation. This simulation study establishes that sample inlet clockwise tilting of maximum around 0.5°–0.7° leads to better CTC isolation and provides better chances of unruptured trapping of cells at the designated outlets. The results of this study provide an approach toward further optimization of DLD devices' functioning and, thus, could help fabricate better DLD-based microfluidic devices for efficient trapping of CTCs.
Experimental study on the effect of loading rate on the strain energy accumulation and release during the weakening process of circular-tunnel
Authors: You Xun , Wang Yunmin , Liu Xiangxin , Zhao Kui , Zhang Zhengnan
Published: April 2024

The weakening of circular tunnels is a global problem that has not been resolved satisfactorily. In the tunnelling process, surrounding rock of circular-tunnel performs a process of “excavating → weakening → continuous excavating → weakening strengthens”. Different rates of excavation affect the stress adjustment of the surrounding rock, and also have an impact on the weakening of a circular-tunnel. An instability failure test was conducted on a circular-tunnel with varying vertical loading rates. The loading rate was utilized as a representative measure for the excavation rate on the site. The results showed that the weakening process of a circular-tunnel can be divided into four distinct phases, hydrostatic pressure (E1), particle ejection (E2), flake stripping (E3), and instability (E4). The ordering of these phases is E3 > E4 > E1 > E2. In the weakening process of a circular-tunnel, the root cause is the original stress level, while the essential factor is the engineering disturbance. A faster vertical loading rate leads to greater stress adjustment, higher strain energy accumulation, and an increased probability of circular-tunnel instability. The presence of a quiet period of AE events in the middle and later phases of flake stripping is a precursory characteristic of circular-tunnel instability. This study has both theoretical and practical significance in terms of revealing the mechanism of circular-tunnel instability and achieving a reasonable arrangement of the circular-tunnel support process.