bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatigue behaviour of automatically HFMI-treated welds
Authors: Wendler Lea , Löschner Daniel , Engelhardt Imke
Published: September 2023

Due to notches, welds are most critical regarding fatigue failure within cyclic loaded constructions. Therefore, various post-weld-treatment techniques like post weld treatment by High Frequency Mechanical Impact Treatment (HFMI) have been invented to improve the fatigue strength of welded details. The benefit, resulting of HFMI-treatment has already been proven by numerous studies. Since a manual HFMI-treatment must be performed by a skilled and trained person to ensure an acceptable treatment-quality, an automated application of HFMI-treatment is supposed to result in a more reliable and consistent treatment result, which doesn’t depend on the operator. Furthermore, a robotic application of HFMI-treatment enables an economic implementation of HFMI-treatment of automated welded constructions like offshore wind-energy converters and various mechanical components, as these parts don’t have to been taken out of the production chain to manually perform HFMI-treatment. This paper focuses on the experimental investigation of the fatigue behaviour of automated HFMI-treated welds, using a developed robotic application of the HiFIT device (specific HFMI-tool).
Toward a solid microneedle patch for rapid and enhanced local analgesic action
Authors: Liu Yue , Zhao Ze Qiang , Liang Ling , Jing Li Yue , Wang Jianhao , Dai Yun , Chen Bo Zhi , Guo Xin Dong
Published: September 2023

Analgesic creams find widespread application as adjuncts for localized anesthesia prior to surgical procedures. Nevertheless, the onset of analgesic action is protracted due to the skin barrier's inherent characteristics, which necessitates prolonged intervals of patient and clinician waiting, consequently impinging upon patient compliance and clinician workflow efficiency. In this work, a biodegradable microneedles (MNs) patch was introduced to enhance the transdermal administration of lidocaine cream to achieve rapid analgesia through a minimally invasive and conveniently accessible modality. The polylactic acid (PLA) MNs were mass-produced using a simple hot-pressing method and served the purpose of creating microchannels across the skin’s surface for rapid absorption of lidocaine cream. Optical and electron microscopes were applied to meticulously scrutinize the morphology of the fabricated MNs, and the comprehensive penetration tests involving dynamometer, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and animal skins demonstrated the robust mechanical strength of PLA MNs for successful transdermal penetration. The behavioral pain sensitivity tests on living rats revealed that the MNs-assisted lidocaine treatment expeditiously accelerated the onset of action and substantially enhanced the efficacy of localized anesthesia. Furthermore, different treatment protocols encompassing the sequence of drug application relative to MNs treatment, MNs dimensions, and the frequency of MNs insertions exhibited noteworthy influence on the resultant local anesthesia efficacy. Together these results demonstrated that the lidocaine cream followed by diverse PLA MNs treatments would be a promising strategy for rapid clinical local anesthesia with wide-ranging applications.
North Pacific response to hemispheric warming forces Holocene drought
Authors: Todd Victoria , Shanahan Timothy , DiNezio Pedro , Klavans Jeremy , Fawcett Peter , Anderson R. Scott , Jimenez-Moreno Gonzalo , LeGrande Allegra , Pausata Francesco , Thompson Alex , Zhu Jiang
Published: September 2023

The Southwest United States is prone to severe and persistent drought1, but the influence of anthropogenic forcing on current and future precipitation remains uncertain2-7. To improve our understanding of the drivers of Southwest drought, we quantified precipitation and temperature changes in the southern Rockies and combined these with a multi-model ensemble of climate simulations for the mid-Holocene, a past interval when the region experienced exceptional and persistent drought. Reconstructed mid-Holocene warming in the Rockies is consistent with existing proxy reconstructions. In most models, this warming only occurs in simulations with prescribed mid-Holocene vegetation, including a “greening” of the Sahara, supporting the hypothesis that expanded vegetation was critical for producing warming consistent with proxy data15. In response to this hemispheric warming, a distinct pattern of higher temperatures resembling the negative phase of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation emerges in the models, increasing the magnitude of wintertime precipitation declines across the western US, in better agreement with proxy reconstructions. A similar forced response could be excited by anthropogenic forcings, enhancing future drought across the Southwest US. However, reductions in winter precipitation associated with the development of this pattern of North Pacific warming are underestimated in simulations of both the mid-Holocene and the instrumental period, suggesting that current projections may underestimate the magnitude and the risk of persistent human-made drought in the future.
Effects of the TIBA and MH Antiauxins on In vitro Regeneration of Caspian honey locust
Authors: Rastab Mojtaba Imani , Hosseini-Nasr Mohammad , Ali Ranjbar Farahabadi Gholam , sarmast Mostafa Khoshhal
Published: September 2023

In this study, the callus induction and shoot proliferation efficiency of Caspian honey locust (Gleditsia caspica Def.) root explants were investigated in response to 2,3,5-triiodobenzoic acid (TIBA) and maleic hydrazide acid (MH) antiauxins. TIBA and MH were applied in concentration of 0, 0.1, 1.0 and 10 μM along with 20 μM of BAP in MS medium. The maximum number of shoot proliferation (%), callus dry weight, callus fresh weight, callus growth rate, callus formation (%) and basal area was observed in 10 μM of TIBA and MH. The results showed that the most measured callus traits in root explants collected from proximal end of the root was much better than that of the distal end of the root explants. Regardless of explants position on root, callus formation percentage was also decreased in absence of TIBA and MH. In general, higher concentration of anti-auxin resulted in the better performance of callus traits and proliferation rate.
Synergistic Chemo-Photothermal Therapy using Thiol-Functionalized Gold Nanorods Supported on Mesoporous Silica for Lung Cancer Treatment
Authors: Deinavizadeh Maryam , Kiasat Ali Reza , Shafiei Mohammad , Sabaeian Mohammad , Mirzajani Roya , Zahraei Seyed Mohammadsaleh , Khalili Fateme , Shao Minmin , Wu Aimin , Makvandi Pooyan
Published: September 2023

Cancer therapy necessitates the development of novel and effective treatment modalities to combat the complexity of this disease. In this project, we propose a synergistic approach by combining chemo-photothermal treatment using thiol-functionalized gold nanorods (AuNRs) supported on mesoporous silica, offering a promising solution for enhanced lung cancer therapy. To begin, mesoporous MCM-41 was synthesized using a surfactant-templated sol-gel method, chosen for its desirable porous structure, excellent biocompatibility, and non-toxic properties. Further, thiol-functionalized MCM-41 was achieved through a simple grafting process, enabling the subsequent synthesis of thiol-MCM-41-functionalized AuNRs (AuNR@S-MCM-41) via a gold-thiol interaction. The nanocomposite was then loaded with the anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX), resulting in AuNR@S-MCM-41-DOX. Remarkably, the nanocomposite exhibited pH/NIR dual-responsive drug release behaviors, facilitating targeted drug delivery. In addition, it demonstrated exceptional biocompatibility and efficient internalization into A549 lung cancer cells. Notably, the combined photothermal- chemo therapy by AuNR@S-MCM-41-DOX exhibited superior efficacy in killing cancer cells compared to single chemo- or photothermal therapies. This study showcases the potential of the AuNR@S-MCM-41-DOX nanocomposite as a promising candidate for combined chemo-photothermal therapy in lung cancer treatment. The innovative integration of gold nanorods, thiol-functionalized mesoporous silica, and pH/NIR dual-responsive drug release provides a comprehensive and effective therapeutic approach for improved outcomes in lung cancer therapy. Future advancements based on this strategy hold promise for addressing the challenges posed by cancer and transforming patient care.
Advocate-BREAST: Advocates and Patients’ Advice to Enhance Breast Cancer Care Delivery, Patient Experience and Patient Centered Research by 2025
Authors: O'Sullivan Ciara C. , Larson Nicole L. , Vierkant Robert A. , Smith Mary Lou , Chauhan Cynthia , Couch Fergus J. , Olson Janet E. , Loprinzi Charles L. , Ruddy Kathryn J.
Published: September 2023

Purpose: The aims of the Advocate-BREAST project are to study and improve the breast cancer (BC) patient experience through education and patient-centered research.
Methods: In December 2021, an electronic REDCap survey was circulated to 6,918 BC survivors (stage 0-4) enrolled in the Mayo Clinic Breast Disease Registry. The questionnaire asked about satisfaction with BC care delivery, and education and support receive(d) regarding BC linked concerns. Patients also ranked Quality Improvement (QI) proposals.
Results: The survey received 2,437 responses. 18% had Ductal Carcinoma in Situ, 81% had early breast cancer (EBC), i.e. stage 1-3, and 2% had metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Mean age was 64 (SD 11.8), and mean time since diagnosis was 93 months (SD 70.2). 69.3% of patients received all care at Mayo Clinic. The overall experience of care was good (>90 %). The main severe symptoms recalled in year 1 were alopecia, eyebrow/eyelash thinning, hot flashes, sexual dysfunction, and cognitive issues. The main concerns recalled were fear of BC recurrence/spread; loved ones coping; fear of dying, and emotional health. Patients were most dissatisfied with information regarding sexual dysfunction, eyebrow/eyelash thinning, peripheral neuropathy, and on side effects of immunotherapy/targeted therapies. Top ranking QI projects were: i) Lifetime access to concise educational resources; ii) Holistic support programs for MBC and iii) Wellness Programs for EBC and MBC.
Conclusions: Patients with early and advanced BC desire psychological support, concise educational resources, and holistic care.
Implications: Focused research and QI initiatives in these areas will improve the BC patient experience
Building public engagement and access to palliative care and advance care planning: a qualitative study
Authors: Black Rachel , Hasson Felicity , Slater Paul , Beck Esther , McIlfatrick Sonja
Published: September 2023

Background
Research evidence suggests that a lack of engagement with palliative care and advance care planning could be attributed to a lack of knowledge, presence of misconceptions and stigma within the general public. However, the importance of how death, dying and bereavement is viewed and experienced has been highlighted as an important aspect in enabling public health approaches to palliative care. Therefore, research which explores the public views on strategies to facilitate engagement with palliative care and advance care planning is required.
Methods
Exploratory, qualitative design, utilising purposive random sampling from a database of participants involved in a larger mixed methods study. Online semi-structured interviews were conducted (n = 28) and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Thematic findings were mapped to the social ecological model framework to provide a holistic understanding of public behaviours in relation to palliative care and advance care planning engagement.
Results
Three themes were generated from the data: “Visibility and relatability”; “Embedding opportunities for engagement into everyday life”; “Societal and cultural barriers to open discussion”. Evidence of interaction across all five social ecological model levels were identified across the themes, suggesting a multi-level public health approach incorporating individual, social, structural and cultural aspects is required for effective public engagement.
Conclusions
Public views around potential strategies for effective engagement in palliative care and advance care planning services were found to be multifaceted. Participants suggest an increase in visibility within the public domain to be a significant area of consideration. Additionally, enhancing opportunities for the public to engage in palliative care and advance care planning within everyday life, such as education within schools, is suggested to improve death literacy and reduce stigma. For effective communication, socio-cultural aspects need to be explored when developing strategies for engagement with all members of society.
Graves’ disease and the risk of immune-mediated diseases: Mendelian randomization and colocalization analyses in East Asian population.
Authors: Su Tao , Gan Ying , Ma Shulin , Lu Shilin , Zhi Min , Wang Bao , Lu Yi , Yao Jiayin
Published: September 2023

Background
Epidemiological studies have indicated a frequent co-occurrence of Graves' disease (GD) with other immune-mediated diseases (IMDs). However, the causal relationship between them remains uncertain.
Objective
This study aimed to establish a causal relationship between GD and IMDs, as well as investigate the genetic foundation of comorbidities.
Methods
We employed Mendelian randomization (MR) to infer a causal relationship between GD and eight IMDs in the East Asian population, namely, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), ulcerative colitis (UC), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), atopic dermatitis (AD), Crohn's disease (CD), type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and asthma. The causal association was examined using several MR methods. A sensitivity analysis was performed to identify potential heterogeneity and pleiotropy. Finally, we performed colocalization analyses to explore the possible genetic foundation.
Results
Bidirectional MR analysis indicated that GD increased the risk of SLE (odds ratio [OR]: 1.31, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.15 to 1.49, P < 0.001) and CD (OR: 1.32, 95%CI: 1.14 to 1.52, P < 0.001), and maybe a risk factor for RA, but a protective factor for AD and asthma. And we found that RA was linked to a higher risk of GD (OR: 1.26, 95%CI: 1.09 to 1.46, P = 0.002). UC and AD may be protective factors for GD, while CD was the opposite. Colocalization analyses suggested that shared causal variants between GD and other IMDs may exist.
Conclusion
This study has confirmed that GD was associated with IMDs. It may be necessary to strengthen detection to prevent the occurrence of comorbidities in clinical practice.
Purtscher-Like Retinopathy and Paracentral Acute Middle Maculopathy following Breast Filler Injection
Authors: Pee Xu Kent , Low Adeline , Kahar Mas Edi Putriku Intan Ab , Mohamed Shelina Oli , Chong Ying-Jiun
Published: September 2023

Background
To report a rare case of pulmonary and ocular complications with visual loss due to bilateral Purtscher-like retinopathy and paracentral acute middle maculopathy (PAMM) following a hyaluronic acid (HA) filler injection to the breast. Systemic and visual recovery was attained following corticosteroid therapy.
Case Presentation
A 27-year-old lady presented with painless blurring of vision in both eyes for 2 weeks following hyaluronic acid breast filler injections by a non-medical practitioner. She was initially admitted to the medical ward for diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and altered sensorium. The presenting visual acuity was counting fingers in both eyes. Bilateral dilated fundus examination showed hyperaemic discs, concentric rim of retinal whitening around macula with pseudo-cherry-red spot appearance, Purtscher's fleckens, generalised cotton-wool spots, tortuous veins, and flame-shaped haemorrhages. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) macula revealed hyper-reflective bands at the inner nuclear layer (INL). Fluorescein angiography demonstrated hot discs, delayed arm-to-retina time, arterial filling, and arterio-venous transit time with vasculitic changes at the posterior pole. She was managed with a tapering dose of systemic corticosteroids. The visual acuity improved to 6/12 over 8 weeks with significant anatomical and functional improvement. Dilated fundus examination showed resolution of initial funduscopy findings. The hyper-reflective bands on the OCT had resolved with subsequent thinning of the INL and disorganisation of retinal inner layers.
Conclusion
Filler injections are in increasing demand and are frequently being performed by non-medical practitioners. Visual loss from non-facial HA fillers is rare. Inadvertent entry of HA into a blood vessel may potentially cause systemic and sight-threatening ocular complications. Good anatomical knowledge and proper injection technique are vital in preventing this unfortunate sequelae. There are limited reports on successful visual recovery following various treatment approaches and we hope this case provides valuable insights.
High percentage of circulating PD-1+ T cells correlated with malignancy and recurrence of peritoneal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hu Huihui , Zhang Man
Published: September 2023

Background
Immune checkpoint blockade with anti-PD-1 antibody has become a hot topic for the treatment of human malignancies. Here, we seek the percentage of PD-1 + T cells whether predicting the malignancy and recurrence of peritoneal adenocarcinoma, and go further to investigate the positive percentage of PD-1 whether correlate with the progression-free survival (PFS) after initial surgery.
Method
Peripheral blood (PB) from 80 patients with peritoneal adenocarcinoma and 38 health controls are recruited, subject to multicolor flow cytometric analysis of the peripheral PD-1 and Tim-3 positive percentages. 40 cases of peritoneal adenocarcinoma tissue samples are also collected, the method of immunohistochemistry is used to detect the positive percentage of PD-1 in the tissue section. The enrolled peritoneal adenocarcinoma patients are divided by clinical stage (TNM), histological grade, and recurrence interval (less than 6 months, greater than two years).
Result
Compare with normal control’s PB, CD4 + T cells, CD8 + T cells, Treg cells, IL-6 and IL-10 exhibit higher frequencies in peritoneal adenocarcinoma group. It also discovers that peritoneal adenocarcinoma patients present higher levels of circulating PD-1 + lymphocytes, Tim-3 + lymphocytes, PD-1 + T lymphocytes, PD-1 + CD4 + T lymphocytes and PD-1 + CD8 + T lymphocytes. CD4 + T lymphocytes and PD-1 + T lymphocytes in circulation are correlated with recurrence interval after initial surgery. In the PB, circulating PD-1 + T lymphocytes and PD-1 + CD4 + T lymphocytes also have closely linked with the histologic grade of peritoneal adenocarcinoma. In the tissue section, the significantly increased percentage of PD-1 expressed on the tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) is found in the well/moderate grade than the low grade. And the PD-1 also correlates with lymph node metastasis in peritoneal adenocarcinoma tissues. The level of PD-1 correlates with the clinical outcome of peritoneal adenocarcinoma. Higher percentage of PD-1 correlates with the shorter PFS.
Conclusion
PD-1 may have a good predictive value for the immunotherapy of peritoneal adenocarcinoma, and act as the prognostic factor for the PFS.
Characterization and in vitro cytotoxicity of piperine-loaded nanoemulsion in breast cancer cells
Authors: Vitor Letica Campedelli , Filippo Leonardo Delello Di , Duarte Jonatas , Brito Lorrane Davi , Luiz Marcela Tavares , Dutra Jessyca , Sabio Rafael Miguel , Haddad Felipe , Scarim Cauê , Costa Paulo Inacio , Chorilli Marlus
Published: September 2023

Piperine, an alkaloid of natural origin with potent anti-cancer activity. However, due to its physical-chemical characteristics, piperine's biological performance is limited, with low bioavailability resulting from high lipophilicity and low water solubility. To improve its cytotoxic activity 4T1 and MCF7 breast cancer cell lines, we developed and characterized piperine-loaded nanoemulsions (Pip-NE). The nanoemulsions were obtained by spontaneous emulsification followed by sonication and were characterized regarding their size by dynamic light scattering techniques and their zeta potential by electrophoretic mobility. NE-Pip showed an average hydrodynamic diameter of 102 nm, polydispersity index of 0.2, and zeta potential of -31.8 mV. Compared to piperine in solution, NE-Pip showed sustained in vitro release, preserving the cytotoxic activity of piperine. The formulations presented no irritancy potential in the Hen’s Egg Test on Chorioallantoic Membrane assay. Additionally, the nanoemulsification increased the piperine cytotoxicity against both breast cancer cell lines, as evidenced by the IC50 values. Overall, this study contributes to understanding the potential of drug delivery nanosystems as a novel strategy to optimize the delivery and enhance the cytotoxic properties of lipophilic drugs such as piperine in breast cancer cell lines.
On the scalability of PIV experiments with helium filled soap bubbles
Authors: Guerra Adrian Grille , Scarano Fulvio , Sciacchitano Andrea
Published: September 2023

The scalability of experiments using PIV relies upon several parameters, namely illumination power, camera sensor and primarily the tracers light scattering capability. Given their larger cross section, helium-filled soap bubbles (HFSB) allow measurements in air flows over a significantly large domain compared to traditional oil or fog droplets. Controlling their diameter translates into scalability of the experiment. This work presents a technique to extend the control of HFSB diameter by geometrical variations of the generator. The latter expands the more limited range allowed by varying the relative helium-air mass flow rates. A theoretical model predicts the bubble size and production rate, which is verified experimentally by high-speed shadow visualization. The overall range of HFSB produced in a stable (bubbling) regime varies from 0.16 mm to 2.7 mm.
Imaging by light scattering of such tracers is also investigated, in view of controversies in the literature on whether diffraction or geometrical imaging dominate the imaging regime. The light scattered by scaled HFSB tracers is imaged with a high-speed camera orthogonal to the (LED) illumination. Both the total energy collected on the sensor for a single tracer, as well as its peak intensity are found to preserve scaling with the square of the diameter at object magnification of 10-1 or below, typical of PIV experiments. For large-scale volumetric applications, it is shown that varying the bubble diameter allows increasing both the measurement domain as well as the working distance of the imagers at 10 m and beyond. A scaling rule is proposed for the latter.
Identification and validation of cell phagocytosis related genes for prognosis in breast cancer
Authors: Zou Mengmeng , Zhong Biao , Zeng Jie
Published: September 2023

The phagocytosis of macrophages has a certain killing effect on breast cancer (BRCA) cells. However, the mechanism of cell phagocytosis in the development of BRCA still need to be further explored. Firstly, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between BRCA and Normal samples, and 462 cell phagocytosis related genes (CPRGs) were crossed to identify the differentially expressed CPRGs (DE-CPRGs). Then, functional enrichment analysis was performed on the DE-CPRGs. Based on the expression of the DE-CPRGs, the consistency cluster analysis was performed to select the best clustering method. Next, the DE-CPRGs and DEGs between different subtypes were intersected to obtain overlapping genes. Furthermore, the univariate Cox analysis, the Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm, and the multivariate Cox analysis were implemented to identify the biomarkers. Ultimately, independent prognostic analysis was performed. In total, 141 DE-CPRGs were identified. The enrichment analysis demonstrate that DE-CPRGs were mainly enriched in, ‘exogenous protein binding’ and ‘Focal adhesion’. The consistency clustering analysis results indicated that clustering into two subtypes (K = 2) was the most suitable. A total of 43 overlapping genes were screened out by the intersection of DE-CPRGs and DEGs between different subtypes. Furthermore, we achieved 3 biomarkers including IFNG, CEACAM5, and KRT14. A nomogram for survival forecasting in BRCA patients was created based on Tumor stage.diagnoses, Age, and riskScore. This study identified 3 cell phagocytosis-related biomarkers including IFNG, CEACAM5, and KRT14 associated with BRCA. It provides some reference for the clinical treatment of BRCA.
WITHDRAWN: The Impact of COVID-19 in Software Design Activities in Global Software Engineering – A Study from Security Perspective
Authors: Nabi Faisal , Fatima Hina
Published: September 2023

Background: The greatest significant global health catastrophe of the century is thought to be the COVID-19 epidemic. Software development is not an exception to how it has affected other corporate sectors around the world. The effects of COVID-19 on software projects and software development professionals are seriously threatened The social effects on Global Software Engineering (GSE) extends geographical, temporal, and cultural boundaries in distributed environments. Over the past two decades, GSE research has evolved to manage software development for distributed teams. The COVID-19 pandemic highlights the need for comprehensive research, particularly during the software design phase, to support team collaboration in distributed development.
Aim: This study systematically analyzes the evolution of research emphasis in the GSE field, specifically exploring on whether the research focuses increasing on software design due to the global pandemic, also discuss the social interaction gap in design phase of software development.
Method: We systematically analyzed the existing literature in two phases. In the first phase of our study, we mapped GSE research over the two decades leading to the pandemic (2000-2020). In the second phase, we used the forward snowballing approach to examine the literature on the software design phase published between 2020 and 2022.
Results: The analysis of 592 research studies in the two phases reveals various trends in GSE research. Evaluation research is the most explored research type in methods and processes, and human aspects of development. Despite the paradigm shift caused by the COVID-19 pandemic that increased reliance on distributed teams, results show that while software organizations are extensively studied across all software engineering phases, the software design phase remains one of the least explored areas.
Conclusion: This work highlights the evolving GSE research trends, emphasizing the rising significance of collaborative software design in distributed settings. Our findings address current research gaps and underscore (The technical and non-technical challenges involve three dimensions of distance-temporal, geographical, and socio-cultural) the need for further research on software design activities along with social interaction gap in software team-based design. This contribution envisions a more collaborative, adaptable GSE field, guiding future research to support distributed team.
Analysing the seismic behaviour of a post-tensioned LVL building during the 2011 canterbury earthquake sequence by time-frequency representation
Authors: Ditommaso Rocco , Ponzo Felice Carlo , Smith Tobias , Carradine David , Pampanin Stefano
Published: September 2023

The seismic performance of a two-storey post-tensioned Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) building during the aftershock sequence following the 6.3 MW 22nd February 2011 Canterbury earthquake in New Zealand is presented. The timber building is constructed adopting the low-damage Pres-Lam technology which combines the use of post-tensioning and massive engineered wood (laminated timber) products. Originally a test specimen, the building was demounted and reassembled as the offices of the STIC research consortium on the campus of the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand. Close to the beginning of construction the 7.1 MW 2010 Darfield earthquake occurred in the Canterbury area, however, construction went ahead as planned with the building almost complete when the more devastating 22 February 2011 earthquake event occurred. Standard and time-frequency techniques were used to evaluate the seismic response of the building and this paper presents a general overview of building performance and provides insight into the behaviour of a post-tensioned structure.
Flood Hazard and Risk Area Identification: A Case of Gelana River Watershed, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Gemmechis Wendafiraw Abdisa , Leta Daba Biru
Published: September 2023

This study specifies flood hazard areas as well as flood risk areas of Gelana River Watershed. It specifically aims to investigate factors that create good conditions for flood hazard, generate flood hazard and risk areas from environmental and socio-economic factors using integration of Multi-Criteria Evaluation (MCE) and Geospatial Techniques. The research was conducted using quantitative research approach. Therefore, slope, elevation, soil type, land use land cover (LULC), and drainage density were the environmental factors developed for the generation of flood hazard. In addition, flood hazard, LULC and population data factors were developed to generate flood risk areas of Gelana river watershed. As the result, flood hazard map reveals 64.68, 1769.48, 1345.38, 244.37, 10.73 square kilometers of Gelana river watershed, is subjected to very high, high, moderate, low and very low flood hazardous respectively. It is revealed that 46.52% of the watershed has very high to high flood risk. The rest 47.20%, 6.24%, and 0.05% of the study area has medium, low and very low flood risk respectively. Therefore, the area incorporated under very high and high hazardous and risk areas are located around the Main River and lower course of the watershed. Generally, to overcome the problem, different concerned bodies of governmental offices and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) should give attention especially for those areas put under very high and high hazardous and risk areas of the watershed.
Improved Design MEMS Cantilever Biosensor for Tuberculosis Detection
Authors: Brahma Laipang , Guha Koushik , Karumuri Srinivasa Rao
Published: September 2023

In this paper, Micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) cantilever beam bio-sensing system is simulated, analyzed and designed for quick tuberculosis detection using Intellisuite Software. The surface of the cantilever has been coated with antibodies, which bind to the antigen present. The surface is strained and forms deflection once the target molecules are discovered. A variety of models were designed from different materials with varying lengths, widths and shapes of the cantilever to improve displacement and sensitivity. To improve the performance of the cantilever, Stress concentrating region (SCR) designs is included. Materials analyzed in this paper were silicon, gold, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and polyimide. The highest displacement achieved 4.59×10−2µm with PDMS material for length 300µm, width 50µm and thickness 0.5µm. Improved displacement achieved 9.30×10−2µm with PDMS using SCR Model-2 for length 300µm, width 50µm and thickness 0.5µm. Among shape variants, T-shaped is found to be achieved the highest displacement. For limited size and compact design biosensors modified improved model is designed with a combination of SCR Model-2 and T-shaped with length 200µm which produces the highest displacement of 5.44×10−2µm. The readout method for biosensor design is done in MATLAB Simulink. Piezoelectric material Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT5A) is also used to provide an output voltage. PDMS is discovered the highest displacement and voltage among the other three materials.
Numerical analysis for solidification behaviour of phase change material using MXene nanofluid based thermal energy storage system
Authors: Srivas Utkarsh , Sahoo Rashmi Rekha
Published: September 2023

The current work looks at a horizontally oriented double-pipe thermal energy storage system with PCM filled in the annular gap and heat transfer fluid (Water, MXene, and Al2O3 nanofluid) flowing in an inner tube from a physical standpoint. The discharging properties of a latent heat-based thermal energy storage system at various intake temperatures (290K, 298K, and 303K) have been analyzed while maintaining a constant mass flow rate of the heat transfer fluid.With varying input fluid temperatures, the numerical investigation of the influence of solidification on the liquid fraction and temperature for capric acid PCM-based thermal energy storage has been made. Based on the data, the TES system with 1% v/v. MXene nanofluid at 290K inlet temperature solidify capric PCM faster than water and Al2O3 nanofluid. In the TES system, PCM was solidified by water, MXene, and Al2O3 nanofluid as HTF in 30–120 minutes, 50–200 minutes, and 90–380 minutes, respectively, at an inlet temperature of 290K, 298K, and 303K. At a 290K inlet temperature, Al2O3 nanofluid solidified 90% PCM at 303.37K, 42.37% at 309.57K, and 68.35% at 306.27K. MXene nanofluid solidified PCM 90% during 90 minutes, 42.37%, and 68.35% after 30 and 60 minutes at 290K. Thus, MXene nanofluids as heat transfer fluids in double tube latent heat thermal energy storage are more feasible and valuable than traditional fluids for energy-efficient and sustainable thermal energy storage.
Hydropower Scheduling Under Missing Power Load Data: Optimizing Energy Efficiency and Navigation Performance
Authors: Huang Guangqin , Tan Ming , Meng Zhihang , Yan Jiaqi , Chen Jin , Qu Qiang
Published: September 2023

Hydropower stations integrated into the grid system often suffer from imbalance in the dispatch of power generation and shipping benefits due to untimely acquisition of load data. In this study, a dispatch model integrating power load forecasting and multi-objective optimization is constructed and practically applied to Shatuo Hydropower Station in Guizhou Province, China. Compared with existing models, the model can accomplish the optimal dispatch of grid-connected hydropower stations in the absence of power load. The model first uses seven prediction models to predict the power load, and then uses the GA-NSGA-II algorithm (i.e., the improved elite non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm) to dispatch the discharged flow of Shatuo Hydropower Station. At the same time, we set the power load demand value in the power generation objective function as the load value obtained from the prediction and the real load value for experimental comparison, respectively. The results show that the prediction accuracy of the CNN-GRU model (i.e., Convolutional Neural Network-Gate Recursive Unit) is better than the other models, and the values of R-squared and RMSE are 0.991 and 0.026, respectively. The scheduling of the GA-NSGA-II algorithm results in Hypervolume metrics and Spacing metrics better than the NSGA-II algorithm. The difference between scheduling using predicted load values and scheduling using real load values is negligible within 5 (${m}^{3}/s$). The result of optimized scheduling enables Shatuo Hydropower Station to achieve double benefits of power generation and shipping. This method solves the problems of untimely load data collection and inadequate scheduling, and provides an effective way for hydropower station scheduling for power generation and navigation.
Differential analysis of ovarian tissue between high and low laying Hens in the late laying stage and the effect of LECT2 gene on follicular Granulosa Cells proliferation
Authors: Chen Lin , Li Xianqiang , Wu Yan , wang jiaxiang , Pi Jinsong
Published: September 2023

The ovaries of high-yield laying hens exhibited signs of aging beyond 400 days of age, subsequently resulting in a decline in both egg production and egg quality. Oxidative stress, characterized by an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), stands as one of the principal processes contributing to ovarian aging. Elevated ROS levels are implicated in the induction of apoptosis in granulosa cells (GCs), provoking mitochondrial impairment, and diminishing the capacity of the antioxidant defense system. This investigation stratified laying hens into two distinct groups, predicated upon their egg production levels: high-yield hens (HH) and low-yield hens (LL). The study focused on evaluating oxidative stress markers and identifying differentially expressed genes between these two groups. The findings revealed that the low-yield group exhibited follicular atresia, mitochondrial disruptions, and apoptotic occurrences in ovarian GCs. Notably, ROS levels, Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations, and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) concentrations in ovarian tissue and follicular GCs were substantially higher in the HH group. Furthermore, the RNA-sequencing results unveiled differential expression of the LECT2 gene between the HH and LL groups. Consequently, an overexpression vector for the LECT2 gene was successfully constructed and introduced into GCs. The quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR) analysis exhibited significant downregulation (p < 0.01) of key apoptotic genes such as Caspase-3 and C-myc and significant upregulation (p < 0.01) of BCL2 following the overexpression of the LECT2 gene in GCs. In conclusion, oxidative stress emerges as a pivotal factor influencing the laying traits of both high and low-yield laying hens. The accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the ovaries precipitates apoptosis in GCs, subsequently leading to follicular atresia and a reduction in egg production. Additionally, the LECT2 gene assumes a critical role in promoting the proliferation and differentiation of follicular GCs, thus playing a significant role in the regulation of follicular development.
PLEK2 promotes lung adenocarcinoma progression via activating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway through SPC25 Running title: PLEK2 promotes LUAD via SPC25/PI3K/AKT axis
Authors: Zhang Wenqian , Yu Lei , Xu Cong , Tang Tian , Cao Jianguang , Chen Lei , Pang Xinya , Ren Weihao
Published: September 2023

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common form of NSCLC with poor outcomes and late diagnosis. Previous studies have demonstrated the abnormal expression and promoting role of Pleckstrin-2 (PLEK2) in several tumor types including LUAD, the molecular mechanism of PLEK2 to LUAD progression has not been elucidated clearly. In this study, the expression of PLEK2 in LUAD was analyzed using public available the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and further confirmed in human tissue specimens. PLEK2-silencing LUAD cell models were subsequently constructed for examining the function of PLEK2 at in vitro and in vivo level. Our results showed that PLEK2 was highly expressed in LUAD, and this high level of expression was correlated with poor patients’ prognosis. PLEK2 knockdown led to a significant suppression of proliferation and migration of LUAD cells, whereas enhanced apoptosis. Moreover, tumor growth in mice injected with PLEK2-silencing LUAD cells was also impaired. The gene-expression profiling and Co-IP assays suggested that PLEK2 could directly interact with SPC25. Downregulation of SPC25 also impaired the cell proliferation and migration abilities. Additionally, we revealed that the activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling was required for PLEK2-induced malignant phenotypes of LUAD cells. PLEK2 exerted a promoting role in LUAD, and might be prognostic indicator and therapeutic target for LUAD patient.
Facile one-pot synthesis of hydroxylated 1,3-dithiane-pyrazolone hybrids
Authors: Rabiei Maedeh , Nasiri Farough
Published: September 2023

This study presents an effective one-pot strategy for the synthesis of hydroxylated 1,3-dithiane-pyrazolone hybrids. The process involves a reaction between pyrazolone derivatives and carbon disulfide in the presence of epichlorohydrin (ECH). The structural elucidation of the products was accomplished using various spectroscopic techniques. To further corroborate the proposed reaction mechanism, enantiomerically pure ECH was utilized.
Heart rate variability and the short form-8 Japanese version for health-related quality of life in the general Japanese population
Authors: Saito Isao , Maruyama Koutatsu , Yamauchi Kanako , Funakoshi Yayoi , Kato Tadahiro , Kawamura Ryoichi , Takata Yasunori , Osawa Haruhiko
Published: September 2023

Self-rated health predicts mortality. Autonomic dysfunction is thought to be a relevant biological mechanism but has not been investigated in the general population. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 5,908 Japanese men and women aged 30-79 years old. As an autonomic function, heart rate variability (HRV) was assessed using five minute-recordings of pulse waves with a fingertip sensor, and the time and frequency domains of HRV were determined. Health-rated quality of life (HRQOL) was assessed by using the Short Form-8 Japanese version, and poor HRQOL was defined as <50 scores of sub-scales. A test for nonlinear trends was performed in the generalized additive model with the smoothing spline adjusted for confounders. The impact on poor physical component score increased in those who had lower levels of the standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals (SDNN) and the root mean square of successive difference (RMSSD), and the high frequency (HF) power and tended slightly upward in the higher levels as well. HRV parameters were nonlinearly associated with poor physical component. Reduced SDNN, RMSSD, and HF, which reflect parasympathetic modulations, were associated with poor HRQOL in the domain of physical function. Also, higher levels of these did not necessarily translate into better HRQOL.
Finite Element Analysis of a Three-Dimensional Cervical Spine Model with Muscles Based on CT Scan Data and Exploration of the Influence of Muscle Tissue
Authors: Li Zhi , Zhang Bing , Han Ying , Pei Shize , Song Guangfei
Published: September 2023

Muscle tissue is one of the important tissues in the neck, mainly playing a role in supporting and stabilizing the body. Cervical muscle lesions are one of the causes of cervical spondylosis. A new method of establishing a finite element model of the cervical spine was proposed. The muscle tissue was reconstructed by referencing the structure of a medical human body model, and a 3-D full cervical spine finite element model with muscle tissues was established by transferring CT scan data and combining the muscle tissue thus obtained. This full cervical spine model was then validated for its effectiveness and reasonable explanations were provided for the validation results. The effectiveness of the model was basically validated. In the six movements of the cervical spine, the vertebrae were mainly stressed at C1-C3, and the intervertebral discs were mainly stressed at C2/3/4/5. The muscles with the highest stress were the splenius cervicis, rectus capitis posterior major, and longus collis. These areas are more prone to lesions in daily life.
Cohomology of twisted symmetric powers of cotangent bundles of smooth complete intersections
Authors: Etesse Antoine Frédéric Adrien
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we first generalize the Euler exact sequence, allowing to obtain an explicit and tractable description of cohomology groups of twisted symmetric powers of cotangent bundles of projective spaces. Then, via the construction of a particular rank 2 vector bundle on the projectivized tangent bundle P(TPN), we obtain a resolution of the structural sheaf OP(TX) of the projectivized tangent bundle of a smooth complete intersection X ​​​​​⊂ PN. Combining these two facts, we obtain explicit descriptions of cohomology groups of twisted symmetric powers of cotangent bundles of smooth complete intersections, which, in some particular cases, are simple enough to be fully understood. As a first application, we prove a non-vanishing theorem, which shows that the classic vanishing theorem of Bruckmann--Rackvitz is optimal. As a second application, we study explicitly the algebra\[\bigoplus_{m \in \N} H^{0}(X, S^{m}\Omega_{X}(m)),\]where X is a smooth complete intersection whose dimension is greater than its codimension.
The effects of disability grant termination on the livelihoods of rural women aged between 25-30 living with HIV. A case of Wellness Clinic at Vhembe District in Limpopo
Authors: Mhangwani Chrisen E
Published: September 2023

Orientation-The termination of the disability grants has been identified as one of the determinants to non-adherence to Anti-Retroviral Treatment (ART) by rural women living with HIV aged between 25-30 attending a Wellness Clinic in Vhembe District. The study has established that once the disability grant is terminated upon improved health outcomes as a result from adhering adequately to ART, the livelihoods of rural women living with HIV are adversely interrupted.
Research purpose -. The paper sought to explore and examine the effects of disability grant termination on the livelihoods of rural women living with HIV aged between 25-30 attending a Wellness Clinic in Vhembe District
Research Approach - The paper adopted a qualitative approach and individual in-depth semi-structured interviews as a data collection technique. A purposive sampling technique was utilised to draw a sample of 20 rural women living with HIV attending a Wellness Clinic in Vhembe District who were enrolled on ART and whose disability grants were terminated or facing termination upon their improved health outcomes. The purpose was to elicit the participants’ views on their experiences on how the termination of the disability grant interferes with their livelihoods towards adhering effectively to ART.
Main findings - The findings revealed that the termination of the disability grant for rural women living with HIV has adverse implications on their adherence to ART as these women depend solely on this grant. The knowledge of how the disability grant is granted and how it is terminated, provides incentive for suboptimal adherence to ART.
Policy implications – Economic incentives for rural women living with HIV with little or no education has proven to contribute to optimal adherence to ART. However, the manner in which these economic incentives are provided for is a cause for concern in areas where employment opportunities are scarce. Therefore, policy makers should consider the poverty trends that are immanent in the rural settings of South Africa and its contribution to HIV infection. Also, the government should devise policies that consider the aftermath of the disability grant termination for households that live in abject poverty and living with HIV.