bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementasi Metode K-Means Clustering dalam Pengelompokan Kabupaten/ Kota di Provinsi NTB Berdasarkan Indikator Pendidikan
Authors: Hanifah Salsabila , Primandari Arum Handini
Published: December 2023

Pendidikan merupakan salah satu bidang yang mempunyai peran penting dalam pembangunan suatu daerah. Pentingnya pendidikan sebagai indikator pembangunan juga terbukti dengan adanya poin Pendidikan menjadi menjadi salah satu tujuan pada Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) yaitu “Menjamin kualitas pendidikan yang inklusif dan merata, serta mendukung kesempatan belajar seumur hidup bagi semua”. Upaya yang dapat dilakukan untuk mencapai hal tersebut adalah dengan menjalankan program wajib belajar untuk memajukan pendidikan. Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah data indikator pendidikan SMA sederajat tahun ajaran 2021 yang meliputi Angka Partisipasi Sekolah (APS), Angka Partisipasi Kasar (APK), Angka Partisipasi Murni (APM) dan Rata-rata Lama Sekolah (RLS). Data tersebut merupakan data sekunder yang diperoleh dari website NTB Satu Data. Metode yang digunakan adalah menggunakan K-Means Clustering. K-Means clustering adalah metode pengelompokan yang berusaha mempartisi n individu dalam sebuah dataset multivariate kedalam k kelompok. Dari hasil analisis, diperoleh empat cluster. Cluster pertama terdiri dari 2 kabupaten atau kota dengan indikator pendidikan sedang, cluster kedua terdiri dari 2 kabupaten atau kota dengan indikator pendidikan tinggi, cluster ketiga terdiri dari 4 kabupaten atau kota dengan indikator pendidikan sangat rendah dan cluster keempat terdiri dari 2 kabupaten atau kota dengan indikator pendidikan yang masih rendah.
OXIDE-REDUCED MECHANISM OF Fe(ІІІ) OXIDE REMOVAL FROM MONTMORILLONITE
Authors: Gurina Galina , Antonina Kot , Kaplina Kateryna , Vladyko Olexandra
Published: December 2023

The article proposes a redox mechanism for the bleaching of bentonite lump red clay and produces fillers for white paints and varnishes. Nanostructures of different types have been studied: intercalation compounds, delaminated nanocomposites, and mixed-type nanocomposites. Using the methods of IR spectroscopy, XRF analysis, laser diffraction, and DTA analysis, samples of synthesized organomodified bentonite were studied and the fact of intercalation of alkylbenzyldiethylamonium chloride molecules into the interlayer galleries of the crystalline inorganic matrix was established. A basic technological scheme for the production of bentonite fillers and organobentonite is presented. Nanocomposite hybrid paints and varnishes with the participation of new fillers and organobentonite have been obtained, and the physical and mechanical properties of new materials and coatings have been established.
USING STATISTICAL ANALYSIS TO CONTROL THE STABILITY OF THE COFFEE MACHINE
Authors: Opryshkin Oleksandr
Published: December 2023

The stability of the coffee machine is usually associated with the stability of the flow of coffee during the preparation of the drink. Coffee is prepared when hot water under pressure passes through a washer with coffee powder. The flow rate of the beverage can vary for different extractions, forcing the barista to change the grinder settings. The degree of grinding is one of the most important factors affecting the flow rate of the drink. The paper presents the results of experimental studies on the determination of the coffee flow rate and mass consumption during the preparation of the drink. For the experiment, three batches of coffee from different producers were chosen (UAB “Kavos bankas”, Lithuania; Jacobs Douwe egberts, the Netherlands; Saffè Carraro SpA, Italy). Each batch was tested using 12 extractions. Each of the extractions was obtained from freshly ground coffee. The beans were ground using a professional flat grinder with the same settings. A new method of forming a coffee washer was proposed, which gave a more stable result, in terms of flow rate, than the usual method of laying ground coffee (using a washer made of homogeneous raw materials). The results are presented, which confirm that the new method is able to reduce the sensitivity of the coffee machine to variations in the properties of coffee beans (different manufacturers, different packages from the same batch). The results of testing the hypothesis about the absence of violations of the stability of the mass consumption of coffee using one-factor variance analysis (equality of average values), linear regression analysis (on the absence of influence of time on the value of the indicator in each sample), covariance analysis (absence of discrepancies in the functional influence of time on the value of stability of the coffee flow rate). Recommendations for baristas on using the proposed method are provided.
PROCESSING OPTIMIZATION OF CRAFT CHEESE CAMEMBERT TYPE
Authors: Melnik Ivan , Zaparenko Anna , Oliinyk Nataliia , Lypovyi Denis
Published: December 2023

The article substantiates the technology of craft cheese Camembert type with the use of goat milk and dried plant products for restaurants implementation. Differences in the biological value and technological properties of goat and cow milk were analyzed. It is shown that goat milk contains more protein, fat, lactose, potassium, calcium, magnesium and iodine in comparison to cow milk. The density of goat milk is about 1.033 g∕cm3, while for cow milk this indicator varies within 1.024 and 1.037 g∕cm3. Goat milk compared to cow milk contains more retinol, thiamine, ascorbic acid and less such an allergens as αs1-casein and α-lactoalbumin, that proofs an increased biological value of goat milk. Using the methods of experimental and statistical planning, a quadratic model was obtained that adequately describes the dependence of the cheese hardness parameter on the the milk fermentation temperature and the dosage of goat milk in the recipe of Camembert type cheese. As a result of the minimization of the cheese hardness parameter according to the obtained model, it was determined that the of goat milk should be added in the recipe of craft cheese Camembert type in an amount of 35.6% of cow milk content, and the fermentation of milk should be carried out at a temperature of 36°C. These parameters allow to obtain cheese with the hardness of 13.2%. A technological scheme for the production of craft cheese Camembert type was developed, that attaches mixing of goat milk and cow milk, fermentation of milk at a temperature of 36°C, as well as the addition of dried plant products, such as thyme, rosemary and tomatoes  at the stage of  a clot processing . Based on the results of the evaluation of the organoleptic quality indicators of the cheese, it was found that it has the correct shape, rich and balanced taste, as well as a soft and delicate consistency, which allows to recommend it for implementation into restaurants production.
Improvement of Genetic Variation of cv Grand Naeni Bananas Through Gamma-Ray Irradiation and In Vitro Selection Using Fusaric Acid
Authors: Damayanti Fitri , Roostika Ika , Musliman Acep , Widodo Arif
Published: December 2023

Fusarium wilt is an important and malignant disease of bananas even in very few countries which are free from this disease. One solution that gives hope is the use of resistant varieties. Currently there are still limited resistance to fusarium. Therefore, it is necessary to do plant breeding in order to produce resistant varieties. Conventional breeding will take a long time. To accelerate the assembly of varieties, a strategy will be adopted to utilize fusarium resistant genetic material combined with mutation induction and in vitro selection. The purpose of this activity is to get the genetic diversity of bananas cv. Grand Naine through mutation induction with gamma irradiation and obtained an in vitro selection method for resistance to fusaric acid. The stages of the research included induction of mutations with gamma rays and in vitro selection with fusaric acid stress. The explants used were in vitro shoots of banana cv. Grand Naine. The gamma ray radiation doses used were 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 Gy. After irradiation, the explants were subcultured into P5 regeneration medium. In vitro selection of mutated banana shoots on culture media containing 30 mg/L fusaric acid. The results showed that banana shoots cv. Grand Naine was able to survive at the highest irradiation dose (25 Gy). The survival percentage of explants irradiated at the highest dose (25 Gy) showed a reduction in viability of up to 70%. Treatment without irradiation produced an average number of fewer normal shoots (7) but produced the most abnormal shoots (72). Irradiation of 25 Gy produced a small number of shoots but produced many perfect shoots (35). In vitro selection with fusaric acid, shoots irradiated with 20 Gy had the best resistance level compared to other irradiation doses.
Lake health assessment based on ecosystem integrity and services：A case study in Baiyangdain Lake
Authors: Zhao Zhixuan , Wei Fangfei , Wu Haotian , Yang Miao , Jin Xin , Wang Pengzhe , Wang Qing
Published: December 2023

Health assessment is vital for ecological protection, restoration and management of lake ecosystems. Although previous studies have established many frameworks and assessment index systems, most of them primarily focused on the single measurements of the natural status of ecosystems under external pressures. However, there is a lack of comprehensive assessment models based on the ecosystem integrity and services from the perspective of balancing the natural health status and human demand. In this study, we proposed an improve method that consider the ecosystem integrity and social services demand, which comprised five categories: physical structure, hydrology, water quality, aquatic organisms, and social service function. We used the Baiyangdian lake of the Haihe river basin in China as a case study to apply the assessment method, and the results show that (1) the overall level of lake health is “sub-healthy”, and the “sub-healthy” sample sites dominate the lake areas in the current year. (2) the index system provided a perspective to reveal the complex interactions among ecosystem integrity, services and ecosystem health status, which can characterize the health status more comprehensively compared to the single index or indicator species method. (3) the assessment method in this study is capable in evaluating the health status of Baiyangdian lake, the results can be used for decision makers to lake ecosystem protection, restoration and management.
Filler wire deflection control for Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Molochkov Denys , Kulykovskyi Ruslan
Published: December 2023

This paper examines the issue of wire deflection in Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), which leads to process instability and defects in printed geometry. The study focuses on the deflection of Alloy 601/625, Inconel 718 and SG2 wires during the deposition process. Measurements were taken to determine the relationship between wire deflection and the amount of wire used. Regression models were developed for each material to predict initial wire deflection and changes in deflection due to contact tip wear. The results showed that the deflection of Alloy 601/625 and Inconel 718 wires followed a non-linear pattern for the first 500 meters of wire, while the deflection of SG2 wire followed a nearly linear trend. The intensity of the contact tip wear is dependent on the normal contact load, which decreases as the wear increases. Based on these models, an algorithm was developed to correct the wire deflection by adjusting the tool center point coordinates. The effectiveness of the developed algorithm was verified in practice.
DRL based SFC Orchestration in SDN/NFV Environments subject to Transient Unavailability
Authors: Escheikh Mohamed , Taktak wiem , Barkaoui Kamel
Published: December 2023

We address in this paper how complex and dynamic environments characterized by variable limited capacities and subject to transient unavailability may pose significant challenges for Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) agent. The investigation concerns the context of Service Function Chaining (SFC) orchestration problem in Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) based environments using DRL approach, implemented through Deep Q-Network (DQN), and aiming to maximize Quality of Experience (QoE) while meeting Quality of Service (QoS) constraints. We show through numerical results how limited capacity in Physical Substrate Network (PSN) complicates the training process in terms of finding suitable compromise between performance and convergence. We highlight also how replay buffer may mitigate transient
unavailability of PSN nodes and what are the limits of such a solution when the unavailability becomes more prolonged in time or more severe (simultaneous unavailability of more than one node).
Development of a Cyclic Fracture Experiment for Characterization of High-Performance Asphalt Concrete Mixes
Authors: Rahman Nafiur , Castro Samuel , Beheshti Masih , Vedula Naaga Viswanath , Noorvand Hossein , Ozer Hasan
Published: December 2023

Cracking resistance of asphalt concrete (AC) is typically determined using monotonic fracture experiments using load-line displacement or crack mouth opening displacements (CMOD) except low or high cycle fatigue experiments. The outcome of the monotonic fracture tests is a single energy-based or index parameter limiting the ability to distinguish a range of mixes with different stiffnesses and viscoelastic characteristics. On the other hand, high cycle fatigue, such as beam fatigue or low cycle fatigue experiments, such as Texas Overlay test, are time consuming and can sometimes be less repeatable. A Cyclic CMOD Control fracture (C3F) testing protocol was developed to assess cracking resistance of various AC mixtures at lower temperatures. The cyclic testing protocol was incorporated with prescribed and limited number of cycles to parametrically assess responses of the specimens to loading and unloading cycles. Various fracture parameters could be extracted from the testing protocol to gain a comprehensive characterization of an AC mix during crack initiation and propagation. A much richer assessment of AC mixes’ cracking resistance can be achieved to include fracture energy, viscoelastic recovery characteristics, critical tip opening displacement, and fracture toughness. Specimen responses were coupled with physical crack growth via a vision-based system to trace crack propagation. The test method was applied to the two different applications for AC mixes commonly used to enhance cracking resistance. The results show the benefits of polymer modification at the crack initiation stages through recovered energy and delayed cracking, whereas fiber reinforcement’s role at the steady state crack propagation stage.
Root disturbance effects of diverse halophytes on soil nutrient elements and salt ions in intertidal ecotone of the Yellow River Estuary wetland
Authors: Sun Debin , Guan Bo , Li Yunzhao , Yu Junbao , Qu Fanzhu , Yang Jisong , Wang Xuehong , Li Xue , Zhou Di
Published: December 2023

Four representative halophytes of Tamarix chinensis (Tc), Phragmites australis (TPa), Suaeda salsa (Ss) and Spartina alterniflora (Sa) in the Yellow River Estuary wetland were selected to clarify the root disturbance effects on soil nutrient elements, salt ions and their stoichiometric ratios. The results showed that the average TOC content of Tc, TPa, Ss, and Sa in the rhizosphere (RS) group were 5.19, 2.15, 2.05, and 2.14 times of those in the non-rhizosphere (CK) group, respectively. TN content of Tc in the RS group was about 3.44 times of the CK group. The average soil pH and salinity reduced by 3.60% and 41.35%, respectively, due to the root disturbance of Tc. Soil ions including K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, Cl- and SO42- reduced by 33.86%-62.86%. The root disturbance of TPa reduced soil pH and salinity by 1.09% and 35.47%, respectively, and soil ions reduced by 16.93%-46.85%. However, the root disturbance effects in Sa and Ss were not obvious. The results of Mantel test and PCA demonstrated that the root disturbance diversified the soil characteristics. The disturbance of roots played a crustal role in affecting the spatial heterogeneity of soil properties in the coastal wetlands above the intertidal zone (Tc and TPa), and its effect was greatly weakened below the intertidal zone (Sa and Ss). These findings are important for understanding how halophytes can impact soil nutrient levels and salt concentrations in coastal wetlands, which is crucial for effective management and restoration efforts.
Does the day 3 embryo cell number affect pregnancy and neonatal outcomes following single blastocyst transfer from frozen embryo transfer cycles?
Authors: Tao Lin-Lin , Zheng Bo , Li Guo-Zhen , Geng Ya-Song , Yang Zhi-Wei , Dai Hao-Yang , Wang Shu-Song , Dai Fang-fang
Published: December 2023

Background:The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to assess the impact of day 3 embryo cell number on the clinical pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of single blastocyst transfer in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles.
Methods:The study included 624 day 5 single blastocyst FET cycles conducted between January 2017 and December 2022. Patients were categorized into four groups based on the cell number on day 3: 51 cycles in the <7-cell group, 378 cycles in the 7~9-cell group, 121 cycles in the 10~13-cell group, and 74 cycles in the >13-cell group. The study compared the clinical pregnancy outcomes and neonatal outcomes among the four groups.
Results: The clinical pregnancy rates of blastocysts in the 7~9-cell group and the 10~13-cell group were significantly higher than those in the <7-cell group. Additionally, the live birth rates in the 7~9-cell group were significantly higher than those in the <7-cell group. While the clinical pregnancy and live birth rates in the >13-cell group decreased compared to the 7~9-cell group and the 10~13-cell group, the differences were not significant. There were no significant differences in the clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate between the 10~13-cell group and the 7~9-cell group. Additionally, there were no significant differences in the rates of ectopic pregnancy cycles, miscarriage, monozygotic twins, premature delivery, gestational week of delivery, male/female ratio, and birth weight among the four groups.After adjusting for potential confounding factors, the <7-cell group was associated with lower clinical pregnancy and live birth rates compared to the 7~9-cell group and the 10~13-cell group. The clinical pregnancy and live birth rates of the >13-cell group were lower than those of the 7~9-cell group. Subgroup analysis revealed significant differences in the clinical pregnancy and live birth rates among the overall groups for individuals aged ≤30, and the insemination pattern of ICSI.
Conclusion:
When performing single blastocyst transfer in FET cycles, blastocysts with 7~13 cells on day 3 should be prioritized, to enhance clinical pregnancy outcome, especially when patients are aged ≤30 years, and when the insemination pattern is ICSI.
Pre-eclampsia related TLR2/4 signaling activates NOX2/4 to induce oxidative stress and ferroptosis in trophoblasts
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zhang Jinman , Zhu Baosheng , Ren li , Wu Jie , Dong Xudong
Published: December 2023

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy-related complication which is closely related to the malfunction of trophoblasts. Oxidative stress and ferroptosis have been recognized as detrimental factors linked with trophoblast dysfunction. Nevertheless, the signaling pathways dictating the oxidative stress and ferroptosis in placental tissues of PE patients are unclear. In this study, we investigated the roles of Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling in PE-induced ferroptosis in the placenta tissues and explored the therapeutic potential of targeting TLR signaling in the animal model of PE. The expression levels of TLR2/4 and MAPK signaling activation were compared in the placental tissues between healthy controls and PE patients. The role of TLR2/4 and MAPK signaling in ischemia-induced ferroptosis was investigated in the trophoblasts with hypoxia/re-oxygenation (H/R) induction. TLR and NADPH Oxidase (NOX) inhibitors were applied in the rat model of PE to evaluate the therapeutic potential. We found the upregulation of TLR2/4 and the over-activation of MAPK signaling in the placental tissues of PE patients and in the H/R induced trophoblasts. Inhibiting TLR2/4 expression reduced MAPK signaling and improved trophoblast functions after H/R induction. TLR2/4 signaling dependent NOX2 and NOX4 upregulation contributed to the oxidative stress and ferroptosis in trophoblasts upon H/R induction. In the rat model of PE, inhibiting TLR2/4 and NOX activity prevented ferroptotic events in the placental tissues. Collectively, our findings suggest that TLR2/4-dependent oxidative stress and ferroptosis may undermine the function of trophoblasts in the PE placenta, and targeting TLR signaling-mediated ferroptosis could serve as an intervention strategy of PE.
Exploring the Psychological Consequences and Coping Strategies of Architecture Students Following the Massive Earthquakes in Turkey
Authors: Ozenen Gurkan
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to investigate the psychological impact of earthquakes on architecture students in Turkey. The study involved 96 participants from two different universities who completed an online survey. The survey assessed participants’ experiences of earthquake-related distress, their coping strategies, and their perceived social support. Results showed that a significant proportion of participants reported experiencing high levels of distress following the earthquake, with female participants reporting higher levels of distress than males. Coping strategies included seeking emotional support from friends and family, engaging in religious practices, and engaging in physical activity. Perceived social support was found to be a significant predictor of earthquake-related distress, with higher levels of social support associated with lower levels of distress. These findings highlight the importance of providing support to architecture students who are affected by earthquakes, and suggest that interventions that focus on enhancing social support may be effective in reducing earthquake-related distress. This is the first study that attempted to assess the psychological wellbeing of university students in the aftermath of the catastrophic Kahramanmaras, Turkey earthquake in 2023, which caused thousands of fatalities and serious injuries, including limb amputations. Essentially, this study adds to the existing literature on the psychological impact of earthquakes, and has important implications for the design of interventions aimed at supporting individuals who are affected by natural disasters.
Bovine Tuberculosis in Cattle Slaughtered at Abattoir in Ethiopia and Workforce Awareness of Zoonotic Risk
Authors: Mohammed Fahmi , Girma Musse , Worku Getnet , Medhin Girmay , Waddell Simon J , Gumi Balako
Published: December 2023

Background
Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is endemic and of zoonotic importance in Ethiopia. Despite this, there is limited recent information on the prevalence of bTB in cattle slaughtered at abattoirs. This study reports the prevalence of bTB in cattle slaughtered at the Addis Ababa municipality abattoir and details an assessment of practice and the awareness of occupational workers to zoonoses.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Addis Ababa municipality abattoir from May 2021 to July 2022. A total of 502 cattle slaughtered at the municipality abattoir (260 in the day shift and 242 in the night shift) were included in the study. Data collection and laboratory investigations included postmortem examination, culture and bacteriological examination, molecular characterization of positive isolates using region of difference (RD4) deletion typing and spoligotyping. Knowledge of zoonotic infection risk and practices were investigated through a questionnaire administered to 58 abattoir workers and 58 butchers.
Results
Based on postmortem examination, bTB suspected lesion was identified in 4.58% of cattle and it was significantly associated with, age, breed and body condition of the animals. Detection of tuberculosis lesions was higher during the night shift of the slaughter program. The gross lesions were predominately found in the lung and associated lymph nodes (60.87%). Of the 23 bTB suspected tuberculous lesions, 11 (47.83%) tissue samples were culture positive, and four isolates were RD4 positive, identifying M. bovis. Spoligotyping patterns were also effectively detected in four isolates. The observed spoligotype patterns were two SB1477 strains, and SB1176 and SB0133 strains. In the questionnaire survey, 79.31% of abattoir workers were aware of bTB, however, 93.10% of butchers did not know of bTB and understood less about preventing cross-infection.
Conclusion
Bovine tuberculosis is still evident in cattle reaching the abattoir in Addis Ababa. Higher detection of tuberculous lesions during the night suggests a need for improved meat inspections during the night shift to reduce the public health risk of bTB zoonosis.
Impact of Dark Triad Personality Traits on COVID-19 Vaccination Uptake and Prevention Efforts: Insights from the European Covid Survey (ECOS)
Authors: Bock Sophia , Neumann-Böhme Sebastian , Steinorth Petra
Published: December 2023

Background: Even though the COVID-19 vaccination roll-out in general can be considered as one of the most successful public health campaigns in the history of medicine, general vaccination hesitancy has remained an issue of concern throughout the world. We add to a deeper understanding of vaccination hesitancy by identifying what drives primary vaccination and booster uptake, as well as adherence to simple preventive measures such as physical distancing by investigating the role of Dark Triad personality traits, i.e. Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy.
Methods: We investigate data from Germany and the United Kingdom from the European Covid Survey which was collected from 23 December 2021 to 10 January 2022. Logit regressions and random effects regressions were performed to study the effect of dark personality traits on COVID-19-related prevention.
Results: We show that Dark Triad personality traits have a substantial impact on prevention efforts, primary vaccinations and booster uptake against COVID-19. Specifically, individuals scoring high in psychopathy have significantly less likely received primary immunization. The difference amounts to 10.5%-points. High narcissistic personality traits imply a substantially higher likelihood (15.3%-points) to refuse booster shots after having received the primary vaccinations. Therefore, the Dark Triad personality traits may constitute a special case in the demand for vaccines. In addition, individuals with higher psychopathic tendencies engage significantly less in other simple preventive behavior, while higher scores in narcissism lead to higher reported adherence to simple preventive measures.
Conclusions: Our findings highlight the crucial role that personality plays in pandemic related prevention. Policymakers, health professionals, and those in charge of health messaging may take these factors into account when devising communication strategies to improve the vaccination uptake and adherence to preventive behaviors. Future pandemics and public health crises would benefit from targeted, nuanced approaches to public health messaging to promote greater public adherence and public health.
Small Target Disease Detection based on YOLOv5 Framework for Intelligent Bridges
Authors: Zhang Tingping , Xiong Yuanjun , Jiang Shixin , Dan Pingxi , Gui Guan
Published: December 2023

This paper proposes a small target disease detection method using YOLOv5 framework for detecting small apparent diseases on intelligent bridges, aiming to address the problem of missed and false detection. To enhance the detection of small apparent diseases, a layer for detecting small objects is added to the YOLOv5 model. Additionally, an ECA attention mechanism module is embedded in the feature enhancement network to improve the extraction of disease features. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, a dataset of 996 bridges with apparent diseases such as corrosion, rebar, speckle, hole and spall was established and trained after manual annotation and data augmentation. The experiment showed that the proposed algorithm achieves a mAP of 87.91%. Compared to the original YOLOv5 model, the proposed algorithm improved the mAP on the bridge apparent disease dataset by 1.97%. This algorithm accurately detects small apparent diseases on bridges and effectively reduces missed detection.
Optimal trajectory planning combiningmodel-based and data-driven hybrid approaches
Authors: Ghnatios Chady , Lorenzo Daniele di , Champaney Victor , Ammar Amine , Elias Cueto , Chinesta Francisco
Published: December 2023

Trajectory planning aims at computing an optimal trajectory through theminimization of a cost function. This paper considers four dierent scenarios: (i)the rst concerns a given trajectory on which a cost function is minimized by aacting on the velocity along it; (ii) the second considers trajectories expressedparametrically, from which an optimal path and the velocity along it arecomputed; (iii), the case in which only the departure and arrival points of thetrajectory are known, and the optimal path (in the sense of minimizing a givencost function) must be determined; and nally, (iv) the case involving uncertaintyin the environment in which the trajectory operates. When the considered costfunctions are expressed analytically, the application of Euler-Lagrange equationsconstitutes an appealing option. However, in many applications, complex costfunctions are learned by using black-box machine learning techniques, for instancedeep neural networks. In such cases, a neural approach of the trajectory planningbecomes an appealing alternative. Dierent numerical experiments will serve toillustrate the potential of the proposed methodologies on some selected use cases.
Harnessing the Power of Bacillus subtilis MR42: Direct Production of Defined Xylo-Oligosaccharides (XOS) from Corn Stalks with Enhanced Prebiotic Properties
Authors: Wei Lusha , Sun Shuo , Chen Yuan , An Xin , Wu Hanning , Wu Yifei
Published: December 2023

The production of value-added bioproducts from renewable carbon sources has gained increasing attention in recent years. Bacillus subtilis MR42 was used to produce specific xylooligosaccharides (XOS) from corn stalks. This strain, through a genetic modification targeting the xynC gene, can convert arabinoxylan into specific XOS without generating xylose as a byproduct. Under optimal conditions, a high yield of XOS (703.4 mg/g xylan) was obtained. The purified XOS were further characterized using various techniques including TLC, HPLC, ESI-MS and 1HNMR spectroscopy. The analysis revealed that the XOS primarily consisted of xylotriose (289 ± 0.03 mg/g), xylotetraose (237 ± 0.05 mg/g) and xylopentaose (267 ± 0.03 mg/g), accounting for approximately 80% of the total XOS. The prebiotic effect of XOS was evaluated by examining its impact on the growth of Lactobacillus, the production of short-chain fatty acids, and its antioxidant activity. B. subtilis MR42 showed a promising ability to produce short DP of XOS without xylose.
Analysis of Structural Strength and Fatigue Life of Hazardous Chemical Tank Truck
Authors: Xiaoyan Han , Lixin Ma , Yongbing Gu , Yichao Cao , Wenjie Ding
Published: December 2023

In this paper, the safety and durability of the structure of the hazardous chemical tanker is evaluated by analyzing the strength and fatigue life of the tank body. By using finite element analysis software, the stress and deformation of key components such as front vessel head, wave plates and rear vesse head of tank truck are analyzed in detail, and the fatigue life under impact load is calculated. The greatest stress is located at the connection between the vessel head and the cylinder, and the front vessel head is greater. The maximum fatigue damage occurred on the structure of the wave plate.
Chinese Women Recover Slower Than Western Women After Cancer-Related Breast Reconstruction: A Prospective Descriptive Study Using Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement for Breast Surgery
Authors: CHANG Ting-Yu , WANG Tongyao , Lin Chia-Chin
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The patient-reported outcome measurement for breast surgery (BREAST-Q) has been widely used to assess the physical, psychosocial, and breast satisfaction of women undergoing breast reconstruction surgery. However, so far, there is no traditional Chinese version available. The study aims (1) to perform the psychometric evaluation of the traditional Chinese version of the BREAST-Q core and reconstruction modules and (2) to describe Chinese women’s experiences using the BREAST-Q.
Methods: We first translated and pilot tested the BREAST-Q, then recruited patients (N = 155) undergoing silicone breast reconstruction surgery.
Results: The BREAST-Q had Cronbach's alpha values of 0.87 and 0.92 for the pre- and post-surgical reconstruction versions, with a content validity index of 0.96 and 0.98, respectively. Having a normal BMI was only related to pre-operative psychosocial wellbeing and breast satisfaction. Compared to the BREAST-Q clinical references of the US population, we found that participants experienced consistently lower physical, psychosocial, and sexual quality of life before and after their breast reconstruction surgeries, and at the six-month follow-up, there were significant deteriorations in the physical, psychosocial, and breast satisfaction domains and no improvement in sexual wellbeing.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that Chinese women are likely to be more vulnerable to the physical and psychosocial impact of changes in breast, including surgical breast reconstruction, than women in the US and thus experience a slower recovery process. Pre- and post-operative support should be designed to fit their unique survivorship trajectory.
Joint impact of advection and diffusion on the predator-prey coexistence in an open flow
Authors: Xin Shixia , Nie Hua , Shu Hongying
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we examine a predator-prey model with general reaction functions in open advective environments, where the predator and prey may employ distinct movement strategies. Using the coefficients of diffusion and advection as varying parameters, we conduct a quantitative analysis on the critical advection rates, which distinguish the different dynamics of this predator-prey system, to explore the joint impact of advection and diffusion on the invasion and coexistence of predators and prey in an open flow. It turns out that the dynamics may switch many times between a successful or failed invasion, coexistence or generalist predator take-over as the advection and diffusion rates of predators and prey vary, which suggests that both diffusion and advection play a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of the predator-prey system.
Mathematics Subject Classification. 35B35, 35K57, 92D25.
Effects of Dietary Restriction and One-Carbon Metabolite Supplementation During the First 63 Days of Gestation on the Maternal Gut, Vaginal, and Blood Microbiota in Cattle
Authors: Luecke Sarah M. , Aryee Godson , Holman Devin B. , Schmidt Kaycie N. , King Layla E. , Crouse Matthew S. , Ward Alison K. , Dahlen Carl R. , Caton Joel S. , Amat Samat
Published: December 2023

Background: Maternal diet quality and quantity have significant impacts on both maternal and fetal health and development. The composition and function of the maternal gut microbiome is also significantly influenced by diet; however, little is known about the impact of gestational nutrient restriction on the bovine maternal microbiome during early gestation, which is a critical stage for maternal microbiome-mediated fetal programming to take place. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the impacts of diet restriction and one-carbon metabolite (OCM) supplementation during early gestation on maternal ruminal, vaginal, and blood microbiota in cattle. Thirty-two beef heifers (approx. 14 months old) were used in a 2 × 2 factorial experiment with main factors of target gain (control [CON]; targeted 0.45 kg/d gain vs. restricted [RES]; targeted -0.23 kg/d gain), and OCM supplementation (+OCM vs. -OCM; n = 8/treatment). Heifers were individually fed, starting treatment at breeding (d 0) and concluding at d 63 of gestation. Ruminal fluid and vaginal swabs were collected on d -2, d 35, and d 63 (at necropsy) and whole blood was collected on d 63 (necropsy). Bacterial microbiota was assessed using 16S rRNA gene (V3 - V4) sequencing.
Results: Overall ruminal microbiota structure was affected by gain, OCM, time, and their interactions. The RES heifers had greater microbial richness (observed ASVs) but neither Shannon nor Inverse Simpson diversity was significantly influenced by gain or OCM supplementation; however, on d 63, 34 bacterial genera showed differential abundance in the ruminal fluid, with 25 genera enriched in RES heifers as compared to CON heifers. In addition, the overall interaction network structure of the ruminal microbiota changed due to diet restriction. The vaginal microbiota community structure was influenced by gain and time. Overall microbial richness and diversity of the vaginal microbiota steadily increased as pregnancy progressed. The vaginal ecological network structure was distinctive between RES and CON heifers with genera-genera interactions being intensified in RES heifers. A relatively diverse bacterial community was detected in blood samples, and the composition of the blood microbiota differed from that of ruminal and vaginal microbiota.
Conclusion: Restricted dietary intake during early gestation induced significant alterations in the ruminal microbiota which also extended to the vaginal microbiota. The composition of these two microbial communities was largely unaffected by OCM supplementation. Blood associated microbiota was largely distinctive from the ruminal and vaginal microbiota.
Major Depressive Disorder Trait Genes Promote Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Progression and Predict Immunotherapy Responses
Authors: Zhuo Zhili , Lu Wenping , Zhang Dongni , Cui Yongjia , Wu Xiaoqing , Mei Heting , Chang Lei , Song Qingya
Published: December 2023

TNBC is the most malignant subtype of breast cancer and there are no accurate and effective therapeutic targets. Immunotherapy is a promising approach for the treatment of TNBC. Anxiety and depression are among the most common concomitant symptoms in BC.MDD affects the functioning of the immune system, and its immune-related genes not only influence the pathophysiology of MDD, but may also increase the risk of BC recurrence and metastasis. This study revealed significant differences in T-lymphocyte infiltration between the high-risk and low-risk groups of TNBC differentiated on the basis of the characteristic inflammatory genes of MDD, which can help to screen the population for immunotherapy benefit and provide new ideas for future immunotherapy of TNBC. We aimed to identify MDD-related genes involved in the pathogenesis of TNBC and to provide predictive immunotherapy biomarkers for TNBC.
Synthesis and Characterization of Novel β-CD-Xanthate and Its Application in the Treatment of Heavy Metal Containing Wastewater and Lignin Enriched Paper Industry Wastewater
Authors: Chaurasiya Arbind , Pande Poorn , Shankar Ravi , Dey Kajal Kumar , Tripathi Narendra Pratap , Kushwaha Nandita , Kumar Tripathi Shivam Saroj
Published: December 2023

Three grades of xanthates of β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) viz. β-CDX1 β-CDX2 and β-CDX3 have been synthesized by the rection of β-CD with CS2 in alkaline medium (NaOH), through xanthation process. The synthesized β-CDXs have been characterized by UV, FTIR, 1HNMR, DSC, ΔpHPZC and SEM analysis. Further, β-CDXs and raw β-CD has been used for the heavy metals removal (Cu2+ and Ni2+) and also lignin removal from lignin enriched paper industry wastewater (LEPIW). The maximum % removal of β-CD, β-CDX1, β-CDX2 and β-CDX3 have been found to be 73.6, 91.9, 93.4 & 95.8% for Cu2+ ion and 65.8, 88.6, 91.3 & 94.1% for Ni2+ ion at optimum adsorbent dosage 2.0 g/L, pH 6.5, initial concentration 1000 mg/L, temperature 45 oC for Cu2+ and 55 oC for Ni2+, and contact time: 80 min for Cu2+ and 100 min for Ni2+ ion respectively. While LEPIW treatment efficacy of 54, 77, 83 and 86% has been noticed (initial COD: 2.0 g/L, pH: 7, optimum temperature: 40°C at 80 min operating time) for β-CD, β-CDX1, β-CDX2 and β-CDX3 respectively. The calculated data fitted well with Langmuir isotherm model confirming the adsorption of Cu2+ & Ni2+ ions onto the β-CDXs adsorbent is monolayer. The rate of adsorption of heavy metals (Cu2+ and Ni2+) on the β-CDXs adsorbent has been controlled by kinetic model of Pseudo second order indicating the chemisorption. The optimal adsorption capacities of β-CD, β-CDX1, β-CDX2 and β-CDX3 has been found to be 357.14, 473.93, 510.20 & 534.75 mg/g for Cu2+ and 294.11, 384.61, 408.16 & 423.72 mg/g and for Ni2+ ions, respectively.
Development and validation of a diagnostic model for ischemic cardiomyopathy with Artificial Neural Network by bioinformatic analysis
Authors: Naman， Tuersunjiang , Aimaier， Salamaiti , Abuduhalike， Refukaiti , Abudouwayiti Aihaidan , Sun Juan , Mahemuti Ailiman
Published: December 2023

Background
Ischemic cardiomyopathy(ICM) is a significant global health concern caused by high morbidity and mortality.In addition, no previous study has reported the diagnostic biomarkers in ICM.
Objective
The presentstudy is aimed at establishing and validating a diagnostic model for ICM with Artificial Neural Network (ANN) by screening key potential biomarkers using bioinformatic analysis.
Method
Through searching the Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO) database, three gene expression datasets were downloaded and merged. Differentially expressed genes(DEGs) in the mergeddatasetswere detectedusing R software and subject to Gene Ontology(GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG) enrichment analysis. Then, Lasso regression analysis and random forest (RF) wereapplied to identify critical genes based on DEGs. Afterwards, we intersected the key genes screened from Lasso regression analysis and RF. An ICM diagnostic model was constructed by ANN. Based on a validation dataset, the diagnostic model was assessed, whereasits diagnostic performance was assessed usingarea under curve(AUC) values.
Results
Totally 18 ICM-related DEGs were detected. Then, six hub genes(COL1A1, FCN3, GLUL, MYOT, SERPINA3, and SLC38A2) were identified by intersecting the key genes filtered out by Lasso regression analysis and Random forest(RF). In the end, a diagnostic model for ICM was successfully designed by ANN, obtaining an AUC of 0.907 and 0.745 in training datasets, separately.
Conclusion
this study detected several potential genetic biomarkers and successfully developed an early predictive model with high diagnostic performance for ICM. In addition, the obtained findings offer a significant guidance for the early diagnosis as well as screening of ICM in the future.
Use of Locally Available Agro Waste Materials for Development of Sound Insulation Panels
Authors: Mathew Liji Anna , Ashily M J , Antony Nikhil , Fibinsha M K Muhammed , Noha Kevin
Published: December 2023

Any unpleasant sound is referred to as noise. Incompatible with rest, work, play, or sleep, it is unwanted in this sense. Noise does not linger in the environment for a very long time, in contrast to other types of pollution like air, water, and toxic compounds. When it comes to causing disturbance and hearing loss, its effects are instantaneous, but they build over time. The ability of a building to block out sound is a crucial design factor. The majority of synthetic materials used today to make noise insulators, such as petroleum-based gels or synthetic rubber, are used in their production. Acoustic plaster, glass, or mineral wool tiles, etc. are materials that are typically utilized for sound insulation. In addition to being costly, these materials also harm the environment in a substantial way. This work deals with the efforts to fabricate low-cost sound absorbing panels from bagasse and rice straw and assess their performance for sound insulation application. Sound insulation panels were prepared with rice straw and bagasse in the ratios 1:1 and 1:2. The sound absorption coefficient was measured using the impedance tube test. Acoustic behavior was determined using reverberation room test. Physical properties of panels were determined using compressive strength test, moisture absorption test and thickness swelling test. The findings show that the samples of ratio 1:1 have better sound absorbing performance and physical properties. This study shows that the acoustic properties and physical properties of panels made with rice straw and bagasse in the ratio 1:1 can be an environment friendly and economical method of manufacturing sound insulation panels.
Determination of Collinearity Developed in the CMB Model with the Concepts of Multi Linear Regression Analysis
Authors: Rejivas V A , Praveen A , Ajitha T
Published: December 2023

The Chemical Mass Balance model (CMB) gives an accurate source apportionment for the contribution of the sources with the input data of the source profile and receptor data collected. The source profiles for different sources should have a unique and specific species characterization for getting accurate source apportionment results. But due to the mixing of sources, the species characterization source profile may not have unique and specific species characterization due to the non-availability of the exact representation of particular sources and culminates collinearity of species during the CMB analysis. It leads to negative source apportionment results in the CMB analysis. Multi Linear Regression analysis that addresses in the study can effectively be used to identify the collinearity contributing sources. The Multi Linear Regression parameters such as tolerance, variance inflation factor (VIF), condition index, and variance decomposition proportions developed with the source profile variables (source profiles for soil, paved road dust, biomass, and traffic) are used for identifying the collinear sources. The tolerance value for the soil and paved road dust sources are obtained as 0.001 each and the variance inflation factor (VIF) for both are obtained as 204.2 and 208.8 respectively. It indicates the collinearity between soil and paved road dust. Collinearity diagnostics of the regression equations showed that the condition index and the variance decomposition proportion obtained for the soil and paved road dust were greater than 30 (104.09) and 90% (100%) respectively. Therefore, the presence of strong collinearity between soil and paved road dust can be understood.