bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Mal’dzhangarka Carbonatite Massif (Anabar Shield): The Age of Magmatism and Mineralization (U–Pb and Re–Os Isotope Systems)
Authors: Molchanov A.V. , Guzev V.E. , Lepekhina E.N. , Krymsky R.Sh. , Antonov A.V. , Belyatsky B.V. , Khorokhorina E.I.
Published: December 2022

—We present the first results of a comprehensive isotope-geochemical study of dolomitic carbonatites of the Mal’dzhangarka massif located in the southeast of the Billyakh melange zone (southeastern periphery of the Anabar Shield). Zircon grains separated from core samples from a depth of 6–30 m have a three-phase structure. All of them were trapped from the host metamorphic rocks and mark the age of the main stage of high-gradient metamorphism in the region, 2027 ± 9 Ma. Pyrochlore containing 38–705 ppm U and 5–21 ppm radiogenic Pb, with weak metamictization of the crystal lattice and an undisturbed U–Pb system, made it possible to estimate the concordant age of rare-metal mineralization in the massif, 167 ± 4 Ma, which is probably close to the crystallization age of the host carbonatites. The estimated age corresponds to one of the stages of kimberlite–carbonatite magmatism on the eastern slope of the Anabar dome. The Re–Os isotope system of pyrite from superposed late carbonate–sulfide veinlets in the carbonatites testifies to a close (within the error of determination) age, 179 ± 14 Ma, and a low initial Os isotope ratio, which indicates the contribution of mantle material to the formation of this isotope system.
Roever, C. (2022). Teaching and testing second language pragmatics and interaction: A practical guide. Routledge.
Authors: Tai Choe Ann
Published: December 2022

Teaching and testing second language pragmatics and interaction: A practical guide.
Roever, C.
Routledge, 2022.
Mathematical Analysis and Performance Evaluation of the Cell-Free mMIMO Networks based on Cognitive IRSs
Authors: Shalaby Mohamed Saeid , Lamie Mina Wagih , Shokair Mona Mohamed Sabry
Published: December 2022

One of the powerful tools towards the 5G networks and beyond is the application of Cell-Free mMIMO networks. These networks can provide high levels of spectral efficiency SE and energy efficiency EE. In this paper, there are two motivations. The first motivation is application of cognitive radio theory that can minimize the mutual interference. The second motivation is application of Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces IRSs in cell-Free mMIMO networks in order to improve the SE and EE performance even for shadowed and indoor users. In this paper, the performance of the Cell-Free mMIMO based on cognitive IRSs is mathematically analyzed and simulated. The SE and EE are given in a closed form formula. It can be concluded that, the Cell-Free mMIMO network based on cognitive IRSs has a high SE and EE performance.
Predictors of participant retention in a community-based HIV prevention cohort: perspectives from the HPTN 071 (PopART) study
Authors: Bell-Mandla Nomtha , Sloot Rosa , WIlson Ethan , Sharma Deeksha , Floyd Sian , Moore Ayana , Piwowar-Manning Estelle , Makola Nozizwe , Bwalya Justin , Simwinga Musonda , Nkonki Lungiswa , Schaap Ab , Donnell Deborah , Ayles Helen , Fidler Sarah , Hayes Richard , Bock Peter Alwin
Published: December 2022

Introduction
In 2020, there were 37.7 million people living with HIV (PLHIV) globally, of which 20,6 million (55%) were living in Eastern and Southern Africa. Longitudinal studies, inclusive of community randomized trial (CRTs), provide critical evidence to guide a broad range of health care interventions, including HIV prevention. In this study, we have used an individual-level cohort study design to evaluate the association between sex and other baseline characteristics and participant retention in HPTN 071 (PopART) in Zambia and South Africa.
Methods
HPTN 071 (PopART) was a community randomized trial (CRT) conducted from 2013-2018, in 21 communities. The PopART primary outcome was measured in a randomly selected population cohort (PC), followed up over 3 to 4 years at annual rounds. PC retention was defined as completion of an annual follow up survey. Baseline characteristics were described by study arm and Poisson regression analyses used to measure the association between baseline factors and retention. In addition, we present a description of researcher-documented reasons for study termination by study participants in the population cohort (Table 3).
Results
Overall, 48301 individuals aged 18-44 years were enrolled, of whom 15 225 (40%) were aged 18-24 years. Most participants were women (27 139, 71%). Of the 38 474 participants enrolled at during the first round of the trial (PC0), 73. completed at least one follow up visit. Retention was lower in men (RR: 0.895; 95% CI: 0.875, 0.914) and higher amongst older participants (RR: 1.220; 95% CI 1.188, 1.253) when comparing age>35 to 18-24 years. Retention was also higher amongst individuals with high socio-economic status (SES) when compared to medium SES (RR 1.161; 95% CI 1.135, 1.188) and low SES (RR 1.117; 95% CI 1.093, 1.142) . The most common reasons for study termination were study refusal (23%) and relocation outside the CRT catchment area (66%).
Conclusion
Despite challenges, satisfactory retention outcomes were achieved in PopART with limited variability across study arms. In keeping with other studies, age, sex and SES were associated with lower levels of retention, relocation outside of catchment area was the most common reason for non- retention in this CRT.
Non-invasive Cuff Free Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Measurement From Photoplethysmography (Ppg) Signal Using Machine Learning
Authors: Chakraborty Parnasree , C Tharini
Published: December 2022

Measuring and monitoring Blood Pressure for cardiovascular patients is critical and essential too. A variation in heart rate is very important for a patient’s physiological condition analysis. But using cuff every time for measuring Blood Pressure, passing electrical signal to monitor Heart rate may irritate the patient. This idea provides cuff less measurement of Blood Pressure and Heart rate measurement using Photoplethysmography only. Arterial Blood Pressure and Photoplethysmogram along with Electrocardiogram is the most popular methods of measuring Cardio Vascular Status these days. Mostly both ABP and PPG together perform operations like monitoring Blood pressure with high efficiency and ECG for Heart rate. Measuring Heart rate from ECG and Blood Pressure from ABP may cause discomfort to the subject. So, we implement only PPG based system to monitor Both Blood Pressure and Heart rate. Now a days, Internet of Things, Cloud, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning are taking their place everywhere to reduce the man power and ease the computations in automating this world. We detect the PPG signal and transfer the data to cloud in order to apply the Machine Learning algorithm to measure the Blood pressure and Heart rate. This paper gives about the various Machine learning ideas of measuring Blood Pressure along with Heart rate. We used Support Vector Regression, Random Forest, Decision Tree, Adaboost and Adaboost hyper tuning algorithms of machine learning for prediction of Blood Pressure and resulted with high accuracy in Decision Tree and Adaboost algorithms among all the five algorithms tried.
The Impact of Nurse Navigation on Timeliness to Treatment for Benign High-Risk Breast Pathology
Authors: Barker Catherine Shirer , Chung Catherine W. , Mukherjee Rupak , Siegel Julie B. , Cole David J. , Lockett Mark A. , Klauber-DeMore Nancy , Abbott Andrea M.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

High-risk breast pathology is a breast cancer risk factor for which timely treatment is crucial. Nurse navigation programs have been implemented to minimize delays in patient care. This study evaluated nurse navigation in terms of timeliness to surgery for patients with high-risk breast pathology.

Methods

This was a single-institution, retrospective review of patients with identified high-risk breast pathology undergoing lumpectomy between January 2017 and June 2019. Patients were stratified into cohorts based on periods with and without nurse navigation. Preoperative and postoperative time to care as well as demographic and tumor characteristics were compared using univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results

100 patients had assigned nurse navigators and 29 patients did not. Nurse navigation was associated with reduced time from referral to date of surgery (DOS) by 16.9 days (p=0.003). Patients >75 years had a shorter time to first appointment (p=0.03), and patients with Medicare insurance had a reduced time from referral to DOS (p=0.005). 20% of all patients were upstaged to cancer on final surgical pathology.

Conclusion

Nurse navigation was significantly associated with decreased time to care for patients with high-risk breast pathology undergoing lumpectomy. We recommend nurse navigation programs as part of a comprehensive approach for patients with high-risk breast pathology.
Behavioral abnormalities in C57BL/6 mice with chronic ulcerative colitis induced by DSS
Authors: Zhou Yuxin , Ji Gang , Yang Xiaoyi , Chen Zhenhua , Zhou Liangliang
Published: December 2022

Background: Clinical epidemiological studies have found that some patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) are prone to mental disorders. DSS-induced acute and chronic UC models are often used to evaluate the efficacy of anti-UC drugs. However, whether DSS has an effect on mouse behavior has not been reported.
Methods: Acute and chronic UC models were induced by 3% DSS and 1.5% DSS, respectively. The bloody stool, the changes in the colon length, and histopathological changes in the colon were used to evaluate the success of the animal model. The behavior of mice was evaluated by open field experiment, tail suspension experiment and Sucrose preference test.
Results: The weight of mice in 3% DSS group decreased significantly, the DAI score increased significantly, the colon length of mice was significantly shortened, and the structure of colonic crypts was abnormal, which showed inflammatory cell infiltration and shrinkage of crypts. Compared with the control group, the immobility time of 3%DSS group mice in the tail suspension test and forced swimming test had no effect, the number of running and grooming times was significantly reduced, and there was no significant difference in the number of standing times. No abnormality was observed in HE staining of the hippocampus. However, in 1.5% DSS-induced chronic UC model, behavioral and hippocampal abnormalities were observed not only UC symptoms.
Conclusions: Acute UC induced by 3% DSS had little effect on mouse behavior, while chronic UC induced by 1.5% DSS had a significant effect on mouse behavior.
Exploring the Professional Identity of Advanced Clinical Practitioners: Constructivist ethnographic qualitative research study
Authors: Amine Anouar , Mannion Christopher
Published: December 2022

Background: The Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) is a healthcare professional who has undertaken additional years of Master's level training, acquired new skills and capabilities and developed as an autonomous practitioner.
Purpose: Whilst several studies have appraised and analysed this professional role, there are limited empirical studies that have explored professional identity formation within this group. This paper explores this evolution.
Method: Through a constructivist ethnographic approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews with seven qualified ACPs within a secondary care setting. We identified key issues regarding professional identity formation.
Results: Our research highlights the lack of role recognition which acts as a barrier to ACP professional identity formation and further development.
Conclusion: We suggest that a clearer definition of the professional capabilities of ACP is developed to highlight and promote this professional group especially as they now work within an increasingly diverse range of healthcare settings. Specifically, this paper suggests:
- To integrate educational strategies, peripheral participation and vocational studies within the ACP academic curriculum to explicitly discuss professional identity and expand related knowledge to support trainee ACPs to reconcile with this pivoting topic from the beginning of their training.
- To support the ACP role recognition to the medical community at large. This identifies other medical colleagues, Allied healthcare practitioners and patients using healthcare services.
- To enhance different methods of recognition between ACPs who are qualified and those who are in training, specifically, specifying at which stage of their training they are to aid professional identity justification and correct representation
- To build robust mentorship able to encourage, address and improve personal development.
Chromosome-level assembly of the Rangifer tarandus genome and validation of cervid and bovid evolution insights
Authors: Poisson William , Prunier Julien , Carrier Alexandra , Gilbert Isabelle , Mastromonaco Gabriela , Albert Vicky , Taillon Joëlle , Bourret Vincent , Droit Arnaud , Côté Steeve D. , Robert Claude
Published: December 2022

Background:Genome assembly into chromosomes facilitates several analyses including cytogenetics, genomics and phylogenetics. Despite rapid development in bioinformatics, however, assembly beyond scaffolds remains challenging, especially in species without closely related well-assembled and available reference genomes. So far, four draft genomes of Rangifer tarandus (caribou or reindeer, a circumpolar distributed cervid species) have been published, but none with chromosome-level assembly. This emblematic northern species is of high interest in ecological studies and conservation since most populations are declining.
Results:We have designed specific probes based on Oligopaint FISH technology to upgrade the latest published reindeer and caribou chromosome-level genomes. Using this oligonucleotide-based method, we found six mis-assembled scaffolds and physically mapped 68 of the largest scaffolds representing 78% of the most recent R. tarandus genome assembly. Combining physical mapping and comparative genomics, it was possible to document chromosomal evolution among Cervidaeand closely related bovids.
Conclusions:Our results provide validation for the current chromosome-level genome assembly as well as resources to use chromosome banding in studies of Rangifer tarandus.
The impact of environmental regulation on renewable energy development in China from the perspective of spatial effects
Authors: Yang DongXiao , Tan Lin , Wu QianGe , Tang AnYan , Li ZhengYong
Published: December 2022

From a spatial perspective, this paper constructs a spatial Durbin model based on the adjacent weight matrix to analyze the impact of environmental regulation on the development of renewable energy in 30 provinces (autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the Central Government) in China from 2007 to 2020. The results show that: 1) Both environmental regulation and renewable energy development have positive spatial autocorrelation, and form relatively similar spatial agglomeration areas, specifically showing the characteristics of "high-high" agglomeration in resource-rich areas, and "low-low" agglomeration in resource-scarce areas. 2) In general, the intensity of environmental regulation in this province has a significant role in promoting the development of renewable energy and has a significant spatial spillover effect on the development of renewable energy in neighboring provinces due to the influence of geographical distance, economic level, infrastructure construction and other factors. 3) The moderating effect results show that infrastructure construction and electricity demand play an inverse moderating role between environmental regulation and renewable energy development. 4) From the perspective of different regions, the impact of environmental regulation on the development of renewable energy is heterogeneous. Based on the research conclusions, this paper finally puts forward some policy suggestions, such as strengthening the environmental assessment and incentive system, strengthening the cooperation between local governments and rationally optimizing the energy structure.
Effect of metal cations on colloids-Microcystin-LR interaction
Authors: Hu Xin , Zheng Fengmin , Li Jing , Wang Juan , Yin Li , Shi Kaipian , Huang Heyong , Li Shiyin
Published: December 2022

Colloidal particles, mixture with continuous molecular weight distribution and multiple organic components, is widespread in lake and have significant impact on the retention, migration, transportation, and fate of contaminants in lake ecosystems. Here we extract sedimentary colloids from algal growth dominant area (AD) in Taihu Lake and further separated into four different particle size ranges by cross-flow ultra-filtration (CFUF). The interaction mechanism between colloids and Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) was investigated under different cation conditions by dialysis equilibrium experiment method. Adsorption kinetics research shows the adsorption of MC-LR by colloids follows second-order kinetics and can be simulated by Freundlich isotherms. The effects of different cations on colloids-MC-LR interaction shows the addition of Mg(II) decreased colloids-MC-LR interaction, while Cu(II) increased colloids-MC-LR binding. MC-LR also increased Cu(II) binding to colloids, while MC-LR decreased Mg(II) binding. Therefore, different effect of cations to colloids-MC-LR interaction was proposed.
Differences in the global exposure, mortality and disability of low bone mineral density between men and women: the underestimated burden in men
Authors: Zhu Binxiang , Hu Shian , Guo Jianfeng , Dong Zijian , Dong Yimin , Li Feng
Published: December 2022

Talking about osteoporosis, we tend to focus on post-menopause women who are at increased risk due to estrogen depletion, while less attention has been paid to the disease in men. Currently, there is a lack of understanding about the difference of osteoporosis incidence and burden by sex. In this study, we used data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 (GBD 2019) to compare the difference in the prevalence and burden of low bone mineral density (LBMD) between men and women, by location, year, age and socio-demographic index. We found the prevalence of LBMD was higher in women than in men. However, the age standardized mortality rate was greatly higher in men than in women. Using disability-adjusted life year (DALY) to measure the burden, we also observed higher age standardized DALY rate in men. Using sociodemographic index (SDI) as the measure of social development level, we found that higher mortality and DALY rates were mainly seen in middle and high SDI countries. Falls were the leading cause for of deaths and disabilities in both men and women with LBMD, followed by transport injuries. Fall-related mortality was higher in women, while transport injuries caused more deaths and disabilities in men. Conclusively, more attention should be paid to osteoporosis in men, and related policies, clinical practices, and guidelines are in need to reduce the burden of LBMD and osteoporosis in men.
SOX17-mediated LPAR4 expression plays a pivotal role in cardiac development and regeneration after myocardial infarction
Authors: Cho Hyun-Jai , Lee Jin-Woo , Lee Choon-Soo , Son HyunJu , Lee Jaewon , Kang Minjun , Chai Jinho , Kim Hyo-Soo
Published: December 2022

Lysophosphatidic acid receptor 4 (LPAR4) exhibits transient expression at the cardiac progenitor stage during pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-derived cardiac differentiation. Using RNA-sequencing, promoter analyses, and a loss-of-function study in human PSCs, we discovered that the SRY-box transcription factor 17 (SOX17) is an essential upstream factor of LPAR4 during cardiac differentiation. We conducted mouse embryo analyses to further verify our human PSC in vitro findings. We confirmed the transient and sequential expression of SOX17 and LPAR4 during in vivo cardiac development. In the adult bone marrow transplantation model using LPAR4 promoter-driven GFP cells, we observed two LPAR4+ cell types in the heart following myocardial infarction (MI). Heart-resident LPAR4+ cells, which are SOX17+, but not bone marrow-derived infiltrated LPAR4+ cells, showed cardiac differentiation potential. Furthermore, we tested various strategies to enhance cardiac repair through the regulation of downstream signals of LPAR4. During the early stage after MI, the downstream inhibition of LPAR4 by a p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) blocker improved cardiac function and reduced fibrotic scar, compared with that observed following LPAR4 stimulation. These findings improve our understanding of heart development and suggest novel therapeutic strategies meant to enhance repair and regeneration after injury by modulating the LPAR4 signaling.
The deubiquitinating enzyme MINDY2 promotes pancreatic cancer proliferation and metastasis by stabilizing ACTN4 expression and activating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Peng , Liu Songbai , Zhu Changhao , Li Yongning , Ying Li , Fei Xiaobin , Hou Junyi , Wang Xing , Pan Yaozhen
Published: December 2022

The pathogenic mechanisms of pancreatic cancer (PC) are still not fully understood. Ubiquitination modifications have a crucial role in tumorigenesis and progression. Yet, the role of MINDY2, a member of the motif interacting with Ub-containing novel DUB family (MINDY), as a newly identified deubiquitinating enzyme, in PC is still unclear. In this study, we found that MINDY2 expression is elevated in PC tissue (clinical samples) and was associated with poor prognosis. We also found that MINDY2 is associated with pro-carcinogenic factors such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), inflammatory response, and angiogenesis; the ROC curve suggested that MINDY2 has a high diagnostic value in PC. Immunological correlation analysis suggested that MINDY2 is deeply involved in immune cell infiltration in PC and is associated with immune checkpoint-related genes. In vivo and in vitro experiments further suggested that elevated MINDY2 promotes PC proliferation, invasive metastasis, and EMT. Meanwhile, actinin alpha 4 (ACTN4) was identified as a MINDY2-interacting protein by mass spectrometry and other experiments, and ACTN4 protein levels were significantly correlated with MINDY2 expression. The ubiquitination assay confirmed that MINDY2 stabilizes the ACTN4 protein level by deubiquitination. The pro-oncogenic effect of MINDY2 was significantly inhibited by silencing ACTN4. Bioinformatics Analysis and Western blot experiments further confirmed that MINDY2 stabilizes ACTN4 through deubiquitination and thus activates the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. In conclusion, we identified the oncogenic role and mechanism of MINDY2 in PC, suggesting that MINDY2 is a viable candidate gene for PC and may be a therapeutic target and critical prognostic indicator.
Model-based characterization of the equilibrium dynamics of transcription initiation and promoter-proximal pausing in human cells
Authors: Siepel Adam , Zhao Yixin , Liu Lingjie
Published: December 2022

In metazoans, both transcription initiation and the escape of RNA polymerase (RNAP) from promoter-proximal pausing are key rate-limiting steps in gene expression. These processes play out at physically proximal sites on the DNA template and appear to influence one another through steric interactions, leading to a complex dynamic equilibrium in RNAP occupancy of the ∼100 bp immediately downstream of the transcription start site. In this article, we examine the dynamics of these processes using a combination of statistical modeling, simulation, and analysis of real nascent RNA sequencing data. We develop a simple probabilistic model that jointly describes the kinetics of transcription initiation, pause-escape, and elongation, and the generation of nascent RNA sequencing read counts under steady-state conditions. We then extend this initial model to allow for variability across cells in promoter-proximal pause site locations and steric hindrance of transcription initiation from paused RNAPs. In an extensive series of simulations over a broad range of parameters, we show that this model enables accurate estimation of initiation and pause-escape rates even in the presence of collisions between RNAPs and variable elongation rates. Furthermore, we show by simulation and analysis of data for human cell lines that pause-escape is often more strongly rate-limiting than conventional “pausing indices” would suggest, that occupancy of the pause site is elevated at many genes, and that steric hindrance of initiation can lead to a pronounced reduction in apparent initiation rates. Our modeling framework is generally applicable for all types of nascent RNA sequencing data and can be applied to a variety of inference problems. Our software for estimation and simulation is publicly available.
Abnormal thickness-dependent magneto-transport properties of vdW magnetic semiconductor Cr2Si2Te6
Authors: Karel Julie , Li Yun , Chen Zheng , Wang Jie , Li Teng , Tian Mingliang , Suzuki Kiyonori
Published: December 2022

Cr2Si2Te6 (CST) is a van der Waals (vdW) ferromagnetic semiconductor. The unique Ising spin model and temperature-dependent magnetic ordering of CST provide opportunities for the next generation of two-dimensional (2D) spintronic devices. Here, abnormal magneto-transport properties are found in CST nanoflakes with variations of thickness. Interestingly, the thickness-dependent magnetoresistance (MR) effect exhibits a nonlinear change as a function of the magnetic field, temperature, and thickness. At a certain temperature below Curie temperature (Tc), a sign reversal of MR ratio from positive to negative can be even detected with thickness reduction. At the temperature range from Tc to 60 K, the Hall effect also presents a transformation from nonlinear behavior in thick layer CST to linear behavior in thin layer CST. These distinctive magneto-transport properties are attributed to the variation of spin correlation with thickness in CST nanoflakes. These findings probe the unique magneto-transport properties of CST and associate it with ferromagnetic correlation, which provides a basis for subsequent spintronics device design based on this material. This work also offers new insights into the relationship between sample thickness, transport properties, and spin correlation of other vdW ferromagnets. It lays a foundation for future vdW magnets-based device fabrication and possible spintronic applications.
Mechanistic Manifold in a Hemoprotein-Catalyzed Cyclopropanation Reaction with Diazoketone
Authors: Nam Donggeon , Bacik John-Paul , Khade Rahul , Aguileraa Maria Camila , Wei Yang , Neidig Michael , Zhang Yong , Ando Nozomi , Fasan Rudi
Published: December 2022

Hemoproteins have recently emerged as a promising class of biological catalysts for promoting carbene transfer reactions not found in nature. Despite this progress, our mechanistic understanding of the interplay between productive and unproductive pathways in these reactions is limited. Using a combination of spectroscopic, structural, and computational methods, we have investigated the mechanism of a myoglobin-catalyzed cyclopropanation reaction with diazoketones. Our studies shed light into the nature and kinetics of key catalytic steps in this reaction, including formation of an early heme-bound diazo complex intermediate, the rate-determining nature of carbene formation, and the mechanism of the cyclopropanation step. Importantly, our studies reveal the existence of a complex mechanistic manifold behind this hemoprotein-catalyzed cyclopropanation, wherein the cyclopropanation pathway competes with alternative pathways, including formation of an N-bound carbene adduct of the protein heme cofactor, which was isolated and characterized by X-ray crystallography, UV-Vis, and Mössbauer spectroscopy. This species is able to regenerate the active biocatalyst, thus constituting a non-productive, yet non-destructive detour from the main catalytic cycle. These findings improve our understanding of biocatalytic cyclopropanations and the ensuing mechanistic picture is expected to offer a blueprint for both the mechanistic analysis of other hemoprotein-catalyzed carbene transfer reactions and the design and engineering of carbene transferases.
Research paper: Water Resources Management

Small reservoir water dynamics modeling
Authors: Rodrigues Alisson , Rodrigues Lineu Neiva , Marques Guilherme Fernandes , Villa Pedro Manuel
Published: December 2022

Small reservoirs play a key role in agricultural development in the Brazilian Savannah (Cerrado) region. They contribute to diminish rural communities’ vulnerability to drought and improve the livelihood of rural populations. Thousands of small reservoirs have been built in the last few decades in the Cerrado, but efficient water management and sound planning are hindered by inadequate knowledge of their water dynamics. Studies related to small reservoir water dynamics are generally scarce in the world hydrological literature. The main objective of this study was to develop a dynamic simulation model based on the system dynamics model to evaluate the water dynamics in small reservoirs over time, and the risk of not meeting the predicted water demand. Daily data on reservoir inflows were obtained for the period from October 2009 to September 2011, and extended to June 2015 through modeling. The developed model was calibrated and validated with historical data. The main variables which have impact on the water volume were evaluated through sensitivity analysis. The results indicated that reservoir inflow was the variable which had the highest impact on water volume in the reservoir, followed by the reservoir surface area and by evaporation and infiltration, which together represented 14.4% of reservoir inflow. The risk assessment of not meeting the predicted water demand showed that the water in the reservoir was above the critical level 85.9% of the time and that 81.6% of the reservoir water was available to meet water demand. Small dams pose a risk of not meeting the community’s water demand at least 18% of the time.
Cross-sectional correlation network analysis identifies plasma proteins and metabolites associated with the pathogenesis and treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia
Authors: Qiao Niu , Liu Feng , Lyu Yizhu , Zhang Yuliang , Ma Xiaolin , Lin Xiaojing , Wang Junyu , Xie Yinyin , Zhang Ruihong , Qiao Jing , Zhu Hongming , Chen Li , Yin Tong , Fang Hai , Tian Qiang , Chen Zhu , Chen Sai-Juan
Published: December 2022

The treatment of PML/RARA+ acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) with all-trans retinoic acid and arsenic trioxide (ATRA/ATO) has been recognized as a model for translational medicine research. Though an altered microenvironment is a general cancer hallmark, whether and how APL blasts shape their plasma microenvironment is poorly understood. Here we reported a cross-sectional correlation network framework that was successfully applied to interpret multi-layered datasets on clinical laboratory tests, proteomes, and metabolomes of paired plasma samples from APL patients before or after ATRA/ATO remission induction therapy. Our study identified an untreated APL plasma network, revealing two prominent features: one characterized by altered secretory protein and metabolite profiles, indicative of heightened proliferative and energy consumption states of APL blasts; the other featuring APL plasma-enriched proteins, or enzymes catalyzing the metabolism of plasma-altered metabolites that were potential trans-regulatory targets of PML/RARA, suggesting a possible involvement of APL blasts in modulating their plasma microenvironment. Our study further identified a plasma network at the hematological complete remission stage, in which above-normal levels of intracellular proteins might be attributed to therapy-induced cell death, with enhanced interferon-gamma signaling activity likely explaining a tumor-suppressing function of the immune system. This work sheds new light into the pathophysiology and treatment of APL and provides an information-rich reference data cohort for exploratory and translational study of leukemia microenvironment.
Practical Black Box Hamiltonian Learning
Authors: Gu Andi , Cincio Lukasz , Coles Patrick
Published: December 2022

We study the problem of learning the parameters for the Hamiltonian of a quantum many-body system, given limited access to the system.
In this work, we build upon recent approaches to Hamiltonian learning via derivative estimation. We propose a protocol that improves the scaling dependence of prior works, particularly with respect to parameters relating to the structure of the Hamiltonian (e.g., its locality k). Furthermore, by deriving exact bounds on the performance of our protocol, we are able to provide a precise numerical prescription for theoretically optimal settings of hyperparameters in our learning protocol, such as the maximum evolution time (when learning with unitary dynamics) or minimum temperature (when learning with Gibbs states). Thanks to these improvements, our protocol is practical for large problems: we demonstrate this with a numerical simulation of our protocol on an 80-qubit system.
Monitoring treatment of industrial wastewater using conventional methods and Impedance spectroscopy
Authors: Hafidi El Mokhtar El , Mortadi Abdelhadi , Graich Abderrazzak , Chahid El Ghaouti , Laasri Said , Moznine Reddad El , Monkade Mohammed
Published: December 2022

In this work, we treated wastewater from the detergent manufacturing industry on natural carriers and by-products from a coal-fired thermal power plant. The filtration was carried out by infiltration- percolation using a vertical cylindrical column manufactured in our laboratory. The main parameters analyzed before and after treatment are: suspended matter (SM), chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) and pH. This treatment system achieved a reduction of 89% COD, 73% BOD5, 54% SS and (66-99%) heavy metals. The COD/BOD5 rejection ratio before treatment, which was greater than 4.24, has become less than 1.73. Thus, impedance measurements of the wastewater before and after treatment were carried out. The results of the electrical parameters deduced from the impedance spectra show a good correlation with the parameters obtained by the classical methods.
Experimental study on the Hydraulic Performance of Porous Broad-Crested Weirs with Sloping Crests
Authors: Doustkam Mehrdad , Rahmanshahi Mostafa , Fathi-Moghadam Manoochehr , Keramat Alireza , Duan Huan-Feng
Published: December 2022

Due to the high technical and hydraulic performance and negligible environmental adverse impact of a porous weir, this structure is a reasonable substitute for conventional impermeable solid weirs in water transmission and distribution systems. This research focused on the hydraulic performance of porous broad-crested weirs (PBCWs) with sloping crests. To this end, 30 PBCWs models in free and submerged flow conditions were designed and examined under different operation conditions. In particular, a comparative study was performed between PBCWs with and without sloping crests, the performance of which were then compared with a solid broad-crested weir (SBCW) model. Based on the results and analysis, the PBCWs with sloping crests have a more significant discharge coefficient than common PBCWs (without sloping crests), and the upstream slope has a more significant impact on the discharge coefficient than the downstream slope. In addition, the PBCWs with sloping crests are more sensitive to tailwater than common PBCWs, and thus the discharge reduction factor of the weir with the upstream crest slope is lower than that of the downstream. Finally, based on the extensive experimental results, both nonlinear multi-variable regression and gene-expression programming approaches were applied to extract empirical equations for expressing the free flow discharge coefficient and submerged flow discharge reduction factor.
Modelling of flow through naturally fractured geothermal reservoirs, Taupo Volcanic Zone, New Zealand
Authors: Kissling Warwick , Massiot Cecile
Published: December 2022

Background: Numerous fractures are observed in fractured geothermal reservoirs on borehole images in the Taupō Volcanic Zone (TVZ), Aotearoa New Zealand. These fractures are necessary to explain the sustained reservoir permeabilities despite the low matrix porosity. However, conventional continuum models do not adequately represent fluid flow through these fractured rocks.
Method: We present new Discrete Fracture Network (DFN) codes that model fractures and associated fluid flow in 2-D at reservoir scales to represent typical rock types found in TVZ reservoirs. Input parameters are derived from interpretations of borehole images at the Rotokawa and Wairakei geothermal fields where fractures have high dip magnitudes (>60°-70°). This paper focuses on the effect of fracture density along virtual boreholes (P10), that is in average 0.6 m-1 in sheet-like andesites; 0.8 m-1 in ignimbrites and 1.7 m-1 in rhyolite lavas.
Results: The number of fractures in the models scale linearly with the input P10 in virtual boreholes. The percolation threshold, where the backbone of fractures is connected across the entire model domain, is reached for P10 > 0.2 m-1. Above this threshold, mean flow measured along the mean fracture direction scales linearly with P10. For P10 > 0.4 m-1 the permeability anisotropy lies in the interval 13 ± 3, with the scatter decreasing as P10 increases. The pressure distributions in individual DFN realisations are highly variable, but averages of 50 realisations converge towards those given by equivalent continuum models. Probability density functions resulting from DFN realisations can therefore be used to constrain continuum models. Tracing of fluid particles through the DFN shows that particles can take numerous pathways to define a swath of paths. The travel time of particles over 1 km follows a distribution similar to real tracer tests, with arrivals peaking at 1-2 days and a long tail stretching to over 200 days.
Conclusions: The new codes, calibrated to real measurements of fracture geometries in borehole images of the TVZ, reproduce patterns of flows in fractured geothermal systems. Mean flows and permeability anisotropies derived from the DFNs can be used to improve modelling of flows through fractured geothermal reservoirs using continuum models at a limited computational cost.
“I get higher marks via BYOD“ - a descriptive qualitative study on student experiences using BYOD e-assessments to enhance the dimensions of administration and support for learning excellence.
Authors: As Janus van , Brits Kanita Elizabeth
Published: December 2022

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) e-assessment is a strategy that allows students to use their own devices for conducting digital assessments without the need for specialised facilities. This can enhance learning excellenceas it improves the administration and support of the student experience. BYOD e-assessment is not a widely used strategy, yet it has multiple benefits. Therefore this study explores the use of BYOD for high stakes e-assessment and was conducted at a Faculty of Medicine and Health Science. Since 2014, over 14 000 exams have been conducted using this approach. This study evaluates students' perceptions of BYOD e-assessment and was conducted through survey research with open-ended questions. The following themes were identified; technical and ICT barriers (technical challenges for student devices, technical challenges with infrastructure, type of device determines user-experience) and student experience (safety and familiarity with own device, convenience, supporting environment, autonomy, digital abilities, better quality assessments, and feedback). The findings showed that for most students using their devices provides them with a feeling of safety due to the familiarity with their own devices. Being able to write in a familiar more pleasant environment reduces stress. However, students with older devices might stress about using their own devices and students should feel comfortable with using technology. BYOD for e-assessment is a good solution to enhance the student experience and reduce administration. However, it is not a one size fits-all solution and requires multiple interventions such as faculty development, support, training of students and a good strategy before implementation.
Lake level rise modeling with Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Hydrodynamic model
Authors: Bulti Abebe Tadesse Tadesse , yutura Gonse Amelo
Published: December 2022

The water level in a lake increases as a result of changes in the hydrologic processes in the lake catchment that can cause a flood in the lake's surrounding areas. The lake system needs a comprehensive investigation to alleviate an increase in the water level and consequently flooding. Some different methods and approaches can be applied to predict the lake level increase. A water balance study, hydrodynamic model application, and ANN simulation applications are some of the methods. Each method has merit and complexity in terms of data requirement, the reflection of the physical processes, and ease of modeling application. A simple water balance model application is relatively good in considering all the physical processes. However, model outputs are not good during the model performance evaluation. The hydrodynamic models are simulation models which base on the physical processes of the lake system, with the same modification. Somehow it considers all the real processes with simplification. A good understanding of the application provides a favorable condition to provide all the input/factors contributing/ indirectly to a system modeling. The simulation through a hydrodynamic model is within a good range on performance indicators. Artificial Neural networks (ANN) are recent applications that focus on data science rather than physical processes. The ANN provides an opportunity to include all the contributing factors in the modeling processes. The output from ANN modeling processes is in a very good range. The choice of the method of prediction needs to understand the actual event in a lake system and the model's background for good prediction.
Finite element simulation of residual stress in milling of aluminum alloy with different passes
Authors: Xu Yongshi , Yue Caixu , Chen Zhitao , Li Ming , Wang Le , Liu Xianli
Published: December 2022

Machining-induced residual stress is an important measure of surface integrity. Better residual stress distribution will improve the quality and performance of the workpiece. In the process of cutting, it often encounters the situation of multi-pass cutting. The formation of residual stress in the process of single- or multi-pass cutting has been widely studied, but few researchers consider the same total radial cut depth, divided into single-pass cutting and multi-pass cutting, and the last cutting in the process of multi-pass cutting is less studied. The difference between single-pass cutting and multi-pass cutting is that the former machining of cutting is used as the initial state of the latter machining. The stress/strain and temperature generated on the surface of the former machining can affect the subsequent cutting force, temperature, plastic deformation, and the final residual stress. This paper studies the distribution of cutting force and residual stress generated by single- and multi-pass cutting of Al-7075-T6, and focuses on the analysis of the multi-pass cutting strategy. The three-dimensional finite element method is used to simulate and the experimental results are in good agreement with the simulation results. The results show that compared with single-pass cutting, multi-pass cutting can reduce the surface tensile stress and the magnitude and depth of underground residual compressive stress, and the effect of decreasing method is more obvious when multi-pass cutting. The last machining is affected by the previous cutting. When the next radial cutting depth is greater than the plastic deformation depth produced by the previous cutting, the next radial cutting depth is the same, and the trend of residual stress is approximately the same. The results can guide the optimization of residual stress in the multi-pass cutting strategy.
Influence of weight-bearing on the 3D movement of lumbar facet joints in the sitting position
Authors: Han Ye , Wang Xiaodong , Wang Jianzhong , Sun Shaosong , Xia Xi , Wang Jing , Miao Jun
Published: December 2022

Objective
To analyze the motion characteristics of lumbar facet joints and to observe the effect of weight-bearing on lumbar facet joints in the sitting position.
Methods
Ten normal subjects (5 males and 5 females) were recruited and scanned by CT, and their lumbar 3D models were reconstructed by software. The images of flexion and extension of lumbar facet joints in the sitting position were collected without weight-bearing and weight-bearing 10 kg, and the 2D model was constructed by software. The 2D-3D model was matched to restore the flexion and extension motion changes of the subjects' lumbar spine in the sitting position, and the relevant data of facet joinets were collected.
Results
In the L3/4 segment, after weight loading, the displacement of the left facet joint in the X axis became larger, while that in the Y axis and Z axis decreased. The displacement of the right facet joint in the X axis and Y axis increased, and the Z axis displacement decreased. The rotation angle of the bilateral facet joints also decreased. In the L4/5 segment, after loading, the displacements of the X, Y, and Z axis displacements of both sides increase, while the rotation angles of α and β increase, while the rotation angle of γ decreases. In the L5/S1 segment, the displacements of the X, Y, and Z axes on the left side decrease. The displacement of the X and Y axes on the right side decreases, while the displacement on the Z axis increases. The rotation angles of α and γ increase, and the rotation angle of the β axis decreases.
Conclusion
When sitting, the flexion and extension distance and rotational displacement of lumbar facet joints are not affected by weight-bearing. In addition, there is asymmetry in the movement of the left and right facet joints, and weight bearing has no effect on the asymmetry of the motion.
Performance Assessment of High-Resolution Remote Sensing Rainfall Products and their utility in simulating Extreme Hydrological Events in a Peri-urban Catchment
Authors: Yaswanth P , Bindhu V M , Kannan Bagavath Singh Arul Malar , Balaji Chakaravarthy , Narasimhan Balaji
Published: December 2022

Flood risk management studies require reliable estimates of extreme precipitation at high spatial-temporal distribution to force hydrologic models. Recently, Remote Sensing Rainfall Products (RRPs) have gained significant importance in the field of hydrometeorology, but their applicability in urban hydrologic predictions remains uncertain. The current study evaluates the accuracy of RRPs in comparison with observed rainfall and the significance of space-time representation of rain in simulating single and bimodal flood hydrographs. The current study is conducted for the Adyar river basin, a rapidly developing urban area in Chennai experiencing frequent floods. Sub-daily rainfall retrievals from three different satellites and Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) are the Remote sensing Rainfall products (RRPs) selected in the present study. Continuous and categorical statistical indices are selected to evaluate the performance of satellite rainfall estimates. Then the hydrologic utility of RRPs is conducted using the HEC-HMS model for five extreme precipitation events. The RRPs simulated the rising and recession portion of flood hydrographs accurately with a bias in peak discharge. Then, two approaches are selected to further improve the flood hydrograph simulations in the current study; 1) Hydrologic model simulations after disaggregating the daily station data to sub-daily scale using time characteristics of RRPs, 2) Hydrologic simulations after bias adjusting the RRPs with station data. We found substantial improvements in model results in the two approaches. The disaggregation approach using satellite rainfall estimates has overcome the insufficiency of sub-daily rainfall observations. The bias adjusted radar rainfall data is found as best performing for the flood hydrograph simulations.