bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Determination of Air Quality Through Analysis of Rainwater in Selected Geographical Areas in Kandy and Kurunegala Districts
Authors: Karunarathna Hasini , Priyantha Namal 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Dissolution of environmental pollutants, which are released mainly by anthropogenic sources, would alter the chemistry of rainwater, which affects ecosystems including humans. As industrial activated are steadily increased over time, the chemistry of rainwater is continuously changing. As such, it is of vital importance to monitor the rainwater quality to understand the levels of rainwater quality and to predict future risks so that protective measures could be taken. In this context, the study reported was aimed to investigate the chemical characteristics of bulk precipitation in selected areas in Kandy and Kurunegala districts representing urban and semiurban areas, namely, Kandy city, University of Peradeniya (UOP) and a suburb area of Kurunegala (Mallawapitiya) over a period of six months from May 2023 to November 2023, collecting samples on a weekly basis. A total of 75 samples analyzed for rainwater quality parameters using standard procedures revealed that the Kandy, UOP and Kurunegala sites had 32%, 20% and 28% dry-only precipitation events, respectively. A few acidic precipitation events (12%) were recorded in Kandy, and no acidic precipitation was recorded at the sites of the UOP and Kurunegala. The volume weighted mean (VWM) total hardness of the three sites were 5.91 mg CaCO3 L− 1 (Kandy), 3.90 mg CaCO3 L− 1 (UOP), and 4.54 mg CaCO3 L− 1 (Kurunegala), respectively, revealing that rainwater of all sampling sites was soft. The VWM concentration of major anions of the Kandy site was in the order of SO42− < NO3− < Cl− while the other two sites had the order NO3− < SO42− < Cl−. The VWM concentrations of trace metals varied in the order of Pb < Cu < Mn < Fe < Zn < Al in both Kandy and UOP sites while in Kurunegala they varied as Pb < Mn < Cu < Fe < Zn < Al. Pearson correlation analysis showed that all three sites exhibit a very strong positive correlation between conductivity and salinity and a very strong to strong correlation between [Cl−] – [SO4 2−], [Cl−] – rainfall, and [Al] – [Fe]. Probable sources of these pollutants are vehicular emissions, crustal origin, biomass burning, industries, and agricultural activities.
Settlement prediction of micropile supported raft using machine learning: modelling and performance evaluation
Authors: Mukherjee Aranya , Borthakur Nirmali 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Micropiles are composed of steel bars and grouts which can effectively address the challenges of constructing medium-height and medium-weight structures on deep, soft clayey soil deposits. Micropile supported raft foundations not only regulate total as well as differential settlement but also boost the capacity. The accurate prediction of settlement for a micropile supported raft foundation is crucial due to diverse soil properties and complex soil foundation interaction. This paper presents the development of a machine learning-based settlement prediction model using different algorithms. A dataset consisting of 350 data of 13 distinct features of cast in situ micropile supported raft subjected to static load tests was used to develop and validate the model. Following that, the Pearson correlation coefficient is utilized to choose the most efficient features. Different algorithms such as Extreme gradient boosting, Random Forest regressor, Lasso regressor, Decision tree regressor, and Support vector regressor are used for settlement prediction of micropile supported raft using selected features. An evaluation of the model's performance is conducted using the root mean square error, mean absolute error and correlation coefficient. The results showed that the Extreme gradient boosting model performed better. The workability of this model is also justified using prevailing literature’s dataset.
Urinary Retention in Older Adults with Hyponatraemia admitted to Internal Medical and acute Geriatric wards
Authors: Shapiro Dvorah Sara , Ellis Raphael , Mouhtaseb Husam , Sonnenblick Moshe , Munter Gabriel 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Hyponatraemia and urinary retention are common medical problems. Whilst associations between the two are documented, research has not clearly highlighted the prevalence of urinary retention in hyponatraemic patients.
Objectives
Determining the prevalence of urinary retention in hyponatraemic patients and assessing whether urinary catheter insertion itself affects the correction rate.
Methods
A prospective, single centre, observational study including patients hospitalised in internal medicine and geriatric wards. A total of 199 patients were investigated: 100 with hyponatraemia ≤129 mEq/L, of these, 70 had severe hyponatraemia ≤125 mEq/L and 99 normonatraemic controls. The incidence of urinary retention was checked in all groups. Hyponatraemic patients underwent complete assessment for the cause of hyponatraemia and sodium levels were followed up for 48 hours.
Results:
There was a marked increase in the incidence of urinary retention in hyponatremic patients as compared to those with normal sodium levels (41% vs 21% p=0.004). When comparing to those with severe hyponatraemia, a slightly greater difference was found (44% vs 21% p=0.001). When comparing the hyponatraemic patients with and without urinary retention, there was no difference in sodium correction rate between the two groups. Patients with polyuria secondary to post obstructive diuresis had a more rapid sodium correction (9.2±6.8mEq/L vs 5.8±4.8mEq/L (p=0.05))
Conclusions:
There is a significantly higher prevalence of urinary retention in patients with hyponatremia which is associated with the severity of hyponatraemia. Post obstructive diuresis following catheter insertion is a predictor of rapid sodium correction. We recommend a routine bladder scan for all patients with hyponatraemia.
Ano5 Mutation Leads to Bone Dysfunction of Gnathodiaphyseal Dysplasia via Disturbing Akt Signaling
Authors: Li Hongyu , Wang Shengnan , Zhang Shuai , Dong Rui , Miao Congcong , Tian Zhenchuan , Hu Ying 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Gnathodiaphyseal dysplasia (GDD) is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disease characterized by osteosclerosis of the tubular bones and cemento-osseous lesions of the mandibles. Anoctamin 5 (ANO5) is the pathogenic gene, however, the specific molecular mechanism of GDD remains unclear. Herein, a knockin (Ano5KI/KI) mouse model expressing the human mutation p.Cys360Tyr was used to investigate the role of Akt signaling in enhanced osteogenesis and decreased osteoclastogenesis in GDD.
Methods
Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs) and mouse calvarial osteoblasts (mCOBs) were isolated from homozygous Ano5KI/KI mice and treated with SC79, a specific Akt activator. The differentiation and F-actin ring formation of osteoclasts were examined by TRAP and phalloidin staining, respectively. Osteoblast differentiation and mineralization were examined by ALP and alizarin red staining. The expression of bone remodeling-related factors was measured by qRT-PCR.
Results
Akt activation promoted the generation of TRAP-positive multinucleated osteoclasts and the formation of actin rings in Ano5KI/KI BMMs cultures, accompanied by increased expression of Nfatc1, Trap, Dc-stamp, Mmp9, Ctsk, and Atp6v0d2. Additionally, Ano5Cys360Tyr mutation down-regulated the Akt phosphorylation level in osteoblast. ALP activity and matrix mineralization capacity in Ano5KI/KI osteoblast cultures were inhibited after SC79 stimulation, with reduced expression of Runx2, Opn, Col1a1, and Ocn.
Conclusion
Akt activation by SC79 stimulation can obviously rescue abnormal increased osteogenesis and decreased osteoclastogenesis in Ano5KI/KI mouse model, which demonstrated that disturbed Akt signaling pathway may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of GDD, and an Akt activator is probable a therapeutic target for GDD.
Chitosan modified diatomite cross-linked with sodium alginate and polyethyleneimine composite gel particles for efficient removal of copper and lead ions
Authors: Sun Jianjun , Zhang Zongrui , Yu Mengyun , Xu Weiwei , Bai Guona , Xiang Yixin , Li Mengqun 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This study involved the synthesis of a novel composite gel consisting of chitosan modified diatomite (DE/CS), sodium alginate (SA), and polyethyleneimine (PEI) (DE/CS-PEI@SA) using the ion crosslinking method. The micro characteristics of the composite gels were examined through scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry/thermal gravimetric analysis, and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller systems. Their adsorption properties and mechanisms towards copper Cu(II) and lead Pb(II) ions were investigated using infrared, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and Zeta potential analyses. The DE/CS-PEI@SA composite gels exhibit numerous uniform folds on its surface, boasting a specific surface area of 18.96 m2/g and a pore size ranging from 1.5 to 80.0 nm, demonstrating robust thermal stability pre- and post- adsorption. Notably, these composite gels demonstrate impressive adsorption capacities for Cu(II) (174.39 mg/g) and Pb(II) (295.04 mg/g), respectively. The integration of DE/CS and PEI within the composite gel contributes to a complex pore structure and a multitude of accessible. The adsorption behavior of the composite gel is accurately characterized by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir model. The predominant adsorption mechanism involves single-molecule chemisorption, involving coordination adsorption, ion exchange, and electrostatic attraction. The composite gel demonstrates notable efficiency in adsorption, cost-effectiveness, and ease of separation, rendering it a viable option for wastewater treatment applications.
Experimental Study on Multiphase Flow Characteristics in Air Lift Pump
Authors: Zuo Juanli , Huang Ze , Shi Lei , Wu Shuang , Feng Jianjun , Wang Xinhong , Li Guodong 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Traditional dredging methods often have problems such as low dredging accuracy, serious silt escape and siltation, high maintenance cost, and limited use. The airlift dredging system has the characteristics of simple structure, low maintenance cost, no mechanical moving parts, no need to consider lubrication and wear problems, high work safety and reliability, and is suitable for river and lake reservoir dredging projects with high environmental protection requirements and large dredging depth. In order to further explore the internal flow mechanism and hydraulic characteristics of the air lift pump, in this paper, an experimental bench of the air lift pump is built. The diameter of the lifting pipe is 30 mm and the length of the pipe is 2320 mm. The gas-liquid two phase flow and gas-liquid-solid three phase flow experiments are carried out for the system, the change rules of liquid lifting flow, solid lifting flow and lifting efficiency are obtained. Besides, based on Fluent software, the three-dimensional numerical simulation of gas-liquid two phase flow in the system is carried out, and the numerical simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental results. The research results of this paper provide theoretical guidance for the design optimization of airlift pump, and lay a foundation for the popularization and application of air lift technology in the field of dredging.
Assessment of Excess Abstraction Impacts by Pivot Irrigation on Ground Water Quantity in Shendi Sub-basin, Sudan
Authors: Gibreel Iman , Elkrail Adil 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The hydrogeological system, in the study area, consists of two aquifers, namely; shallow and deep aquifer. These aquifers show a wide range of variable hydraulic parameters, due to rapid lateral and vertical changes of Facies. The deep aquifer is characterized by higher hydraulic parameters, large volume and, consequently, higher productivity compared to the shallow aquifer. These valuable resources are threatened by the impacts of accelerated overexploitation and flood irrigation practices, and may be severely over drafted or may be subjected to continuous decaling of water level and water quality degradation if not managed properly. Previous geological and hydrogeological studies have established that significant overexploitation influence the flow characteristics and water quality, which influence the possibility of using groundwater as a main water resource. The conceptual hydrogeological model was developed using Visual MODFLOW software to assess the impact of pivotal irrigation on groundwater potentiality in shendi sub-basin. Numbers of scenarios were performed to study the impact of well discharge increasing rates to drawdown, subsurface Inflow, Outflow through the general head boundaries (GHBs) at the model domain of Shendi sub- Basin. The results of simulation indicated that increasing wells’ pumping rate to meet future demand will likely result in more dramatic declines in groundwater level with maximum drawdown of 13.39 m. The piezometric surface measured at two adjacent wells before and after pivotal irrigation period, showed a drop of 10m in the groundwater level. Mearements of ground water levels after the pivotal irrigation period show a clear decline ranging from 3 m near the Nile to 10 m at the middle of the area (Maaqil area), and increases eastwards up to 15 m (Bir Al-Jud, 30 Km from east of the river Nile. Most of the wells are exposed to depletion during the pivotal irrigation periods as in Elgemma agricultural project. The most significant impacts of pivotal irrigation in the study area are the ecological damage such as severe reduction in groundwater storage which led to the depletion of wells in agricultural projects which affected the human and vegetation activities in the region. Additionally, it results in insufficient drinking, industrial, and municipal water supplies, which significantly change the ecosystem.
Microstructural, Electrochemical, Mechanical, and Biocompatibility Characterization of ReN Thin Films Synthesized by DC Sputtering on Ti 6 Al 4 V Substrates
Authors: Aperador J. , Bautista-Ruiz J. , Aperador W. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Thin films of ReN were synthesized by DC sputtering at different nitrogen pressures (120, 140, 160, and 180 mTorr) on silicon and Ti6Al4V substrates. The coatings were evaluated for their microstructural and mechanical properties. Additionally, the biocompatibility and electrochemical properties of the films were studied using Hanks lactate solution at 37°C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the formation of cubic ReN with higher nitrogen content. The optimized nitrogen pressure (180 mTorr) allowed the complete formation of the cubic phase of ReN. Residual stresses were evident in the films due to the difference in mechanical properties of the substrate and the film. Regarding electrochemical behavior, ReN coatings significantly improve corrosion resistance, reducing the corrosion rate as nitrogen content increases, reaching 0.0145 µm/year at 180 mTorr. Regarding mechanical properties, the deposited ReN films presented an optimal combination of hardness and elastic modulus for the highest nitrogen contents. Cell viability was assessed by comparing uncoated and coated samples using a live/dead staining assay, demonstrating the biocompatibility of the coatings. To complement the study, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze protein-coating interaction and cell morphology on the surface of the samples.
Preparation and performance study of phosphogypsum slag based magnesium potassium phosphate cement
Authors: Yang Long-long , Zhang Li-juan , Dong Jin-mei , Sheng Cheng-hui , Wen Jing , Chang Cheng-gong , Li Yuan-rui 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

With the production of phosphate fertilizer or phosphoric acid, a large amount of phosphogypsum (PG) is generated as industrial waste and deposited in the open air, causing environmental pollution and occupying land resources. In this study, 0.00%~90.00% PG was used to replace the MgO at 10.00% intervals by the internal mixing method for preparing the magnesium potassium phosphate cement (MKPC). Finally, the physical and mechanical properties of MKPC were investigated. The results showed that with the increase of PG addition, the setting time and compressive strength of MKPC was prolonged and decreased, respectively. The effect of internal doping of PG was significantly better than the external doping for the MKPC preparation, with an optimal addition of internal doping of 50.00% PG. The results also showed that when the mass ratio of MgO, KH2PO4, and PG was 1:1:1, the setting time of the MKPC is 8 min, the compressive strength at 28 days reaches 46.2 MPa, which can still reach the strength of 42.5 grade Portland cement. The mechanism study showed that PG addition significantly slows down the hydration of MKPC and participates in the reaction to produce the hydration product, such as the physical phase of MKPC is MgKPO4·6H2O, CaSO4·2H2O, K2SO4 and unreacted MgO. This work is well help to reduce the burden of PG on the environment and contribute to the sustainability of the construction industry.
A five-year analysis of market share and sales growth for original drugs after patent expiration in Korea
Authors: Bae Minyoung , Shim Sung Ryul , Yang Dong-Wook , Son Kyung-Bok , Lee Sang-Won 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction: The sales patterns of original drugs after patent expiration in Korea differ from those in other countries. This study investigates how they differ.
Methods: Using data from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, original drugs whose patents expired in 2012–2018 were divided into two groups depending on the generic drug approval. The differences in the attributes of each variable were analyzed. Additionally, we used IQVIA data to determine the market share and growth rate of 48 original drugs over five years from the launch of the first generic drug.
Results: The average sales before the patent expiration of original drugs without a generic drug and the average sales before the first generic drug launch of original drugs with generic drugs were KRW 2.9 and 22.6 billion, respectively. The sales volume of off-patent original drugs in the fifth year had an average growth rate of 150.6% compared with that before the first generic drug launch, indicating a different trend from other countries. The average market share of off-patent original drugs in the same molecule market in the fifth year was 70.6%, which was higher than previously reported research results in Korea and other countries.
Conclusion: This study analyzed the trend of original drugs’ sales volume, value, growth, and market share after the launch of a first generic drug. Furthermore, it demonstrated different patterns from those of other countries.
Effect of mineral filler CaCO3 on the mechanical properties of PBAT/TPS Blend commercially available.
Authors: Qazi Muhammad Omer , Gill Yasir Qayyum , Farooq Muhammad 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Nowadays, the packaging industry is highly dependent on petroleum products for improved mechanical and thermal properties. Along with that, pollution is created as they are non-biodegradable products. This research work shaped eco-sustainable blown films with the commercially available blend of Poly Butadiene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT) & Thermoplastic Starch (TPS), named BF-02. This blend uses mineral fillers like CaCO3 to improve mechanical performance and make it cost-effective without compromising its degradability. Samples were made by using twin screw extruders in higher concentrations of filler, i.e., 30–40%. Then, these pellets were used to make blown films. The sample's performance was tested on mechanical properties like tensile strength, Young’s modulus, and elongation at Break. The BF-02 performed better tensile strength and elongation at break, and the fillers C30 and C40 performed better in Young’s Modulus. Moreover, no noticeable change was observed during UV degradation, as the remaining sample didn’t degrade up to 480 hrs. This is also because of the shading effect of mineral fillers added to the blend. The thermal properties were also studied, but no change or shift was observed due to adding fillers. The biodegradation of the C30 and C40 showed a better soil degradation rate than BF-02.
Propulsive performance of bionic underwater vehicle based on four flexible oscillating foils - A numerical investigation
Authors: Li Yongcheng , Pan Ziying , Zhang Hua 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Motivated by the efficient movement of sea creatures, a novel conceptual design of bionic Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) was proposed in this article for the purpose of improving the propulsive performance of UUV based on traditional propulsion device, like propeller, etc. The current bionic UUV consists of two parts, the fuselage and four flexible foils. The former part serves as storage module, where the battery block and sensor devices are placed. The latter part functions as a propulsive module and the travelling wavy motion are adopted by the flexible foils. Moreover, three types of motion strategies are designed. Mode A, the foil 1# and foil 3# undergoes flexible motion while the other two remains stationary. Mode B, the foil 1# and foil 3# remains stationary while the other undergoes motion. Mode C, the four foils is in consistent flexible motion. The Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) method is utilized to make an evaluation on the propulsive performance of above three motion models. The systematic analysis is conducted on investigating the effect of motion parameters on propulsive performance of bionic UUV, hoping to provide some technical guidance for the future prototype testing. In addition, the typical vortex structures in the wake of bionic UUV are also presented and discussed.