bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Synergetic effects of nano-boehmite and Y nano-zeolite on catalytic cracking of residue oil
Authors: Amini Ehsan , Ahmadi Kamran , Rashidi Alimorad , Youzbashi Amir Ali , Rezaei Mehran , Mesgar Sakineh 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Boehmite nanoparticles and NaY nanozeolite were synthesized by co-precipitation and hydrothermal methods respectively and characterized by XRD, FT-IR, TG-DTA, BET and SEM techniques. XRD and BET analyses demonstrated the formation of boehmite nanoparticles with a surface area of 350 m2/g and NaY nanozeolite with high crystallinity and surface area of 957 m2/g. In order to evaluate the effect of the content of the mesoporous boehmite nanoparticles on the catalytic performance of the Residue Fluid Catalytic Cracking (RFCC) catalyst, alumina active matrix-based and silica inactive matrix-based catalysts were prepared. Results actually demonstrated that the acidity of zeolite composition improved with the addition of boehmite nanoparticles. On the other hand, in equal zeolite content, the alumina active matrix-based catalyst possessed higher acidity (NC30B20, 3.44 mmol NH3/g catalyst) than the silica inactive matrix-based catalyst (NC30B0, 2.31 mmol NH3/g catalyst). Microactivity tests (MAT) demonstrated that in equal zeolite content, active matrix-based catalysts exhibited higher catalytic performance than the inactive matrix-based catalysts. Moreover, the active matrix-based catalyst (NC30B20) with a surface area of 370 m2/g showed the optimum catalytic performance in RFCC process. The synthesized NC30B20 catalyst with 20 wt. % mesoporous boehmite nanoparticles as an active matrix and 30 wt. % zeolite nanoparticles balanced with silica had the highest gasoline yield (42 wt. %) and gasoline selectivity (65.1 wt. %). The catalytic performance test results showed that in equal MAT conversion (almost 64 wt. %), the synthesized NC30B20 catalyst had higher catalytic performance than the commercial catalyst.
Getting closer to Mitola’s Vision: A 1W, 30dBm, SDR Transmitter with Digital Out-phasing Exponential Modulation in a 65nm CMOS LPE
Authors: Sanduleanu Mihai , Mahdy Ahmed 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

A digital pulsed-modulation for high efficiency and linearity, switched-mode power amplifiers (PAs) is proposed. Based on a new representation of digital modulated signals at IF called Out-phasing Digital Exponential Modulation (ODEM), the paper shows the underlying concept, simulations and measurements that predict a faster decaying spectrum, when compared to pulse-width modulation (PWM) Out-phasing, and a power spectrum that fulfills the spectral emission mask even for 64QAM LTE standards. An implementation in a 65 nm CMOS LPE process from GF based on a Class D-1, 30dBm power amplifier, shows that the EVM and SEM requirements for 64-QAM LTE standards are fulfilled. The circuit implementation of the baseband IC as well as the PA is presented. The whole implementation is based on digital circuits.
The Effects of a Socially Evaluated Cold Press Stressor on Inhibitory Gating in Persons With Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Zaman Andrew , Jewell Crystal , Izbicki Patricia , Stegemöller Elizabeth 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Impaired inhibitory gating is a sensory processing symptom of Parkinson’s disease (PD) associated with common motor symptoms, such as bradykinesia and motor inhibition. Acute stress impairs inhibitory gating in healthy adults; however, it is unclear how stress impacts inhibitory gating in people with PD. Using a Socially Evaluated Cold Pressor (SECP) to induce acute stress, inhibitory gating was assessed through electroencephalography (EEG) in fifteen individuals diagnosed with PD in the mild to moderate range of symptom severity by measuring the p50 ratio (S1/S2) during an auditory paired click paradigm, relative to age- and gender-matched healthy older adults (HOAs). Results confirmed decreased inhibitory gating in both persons with PD and HOAs following the induction of an acute stressor. Persons with PD experienced greater, though insignificant, S1 and S2 amplitudes than HOAs with a medium-to-large effect size in the condition by group interaction (ηp² = 0.104). These findings provide evidence to suggest that PD may also affect early auditory processing, possibly through over-compensation of the reticular activating system. However, interpretations are limited to eight individuals with PD and fifteen HOAs. Future research should examine the relationship between stress and sensory functioning on motor symptoms and cognition in persons with PD to unlock potential clinical targets for therapeutics.
A Comprehensive Study on the Rheological Properties of Desulfurized Rubberized Asphalt and Establishment of Micro-Scale Mechanical Models
Authors: Chang Yingjie 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

In this study, the complex relationship between the mechanical properties of desulfurized rubberized asphalt and the characteristics of its component material is explored, with the aim to establish a micro-scale mechanical model for desulfurized rubberized asphalt. Three types of desulfurized rubber powders with different Menni viscosities were used to prepare desulfurized rubberized asphalt, and its rheological properties were evaluated through high-temperature multi-stress creep recovery test (MSCR) test, medium-temperature linear amplitude scanning (LAS) test, and low-temperature bending beam rheology (BBR) test. Through frequency scanning tests, combined with the principle of time-temperature equivalence and the corresponding mathematical model, the dynamic modulus of the matrix asphalt and desulfurized rubber powder was determined, leading to the establishment of a micro-scale mechanical model for desulfurized rubberized asphalt. The results indicate that the high-temperature performance indicators of desulfurized rubberized asphalt are highly sensitive to the degree of desulfurization. As the degree of desulfurization of the rubber powder increases, the fatigue damage rate of asphalt gradually reduces, and its fatigue life improves. Specifically, the asphalt sample modified using desulfurized rubber powder with a Menni viscosity of 40 exhibits the best low-temperature cracking performance. The increase in the degree of desulfurization promotes better dissolution of rubber in the asphalt, and the size of the rubber powder affects its interaction with the asphalt. Among the powders, the rubber powder with a size of 0.15 mm has the largest specific surface area, leading to rapid changes in the concentration over time. In addition, the Mori-Tanaka (MT) and two-layer built-in (TLB) models are found to be effective for predicting the performance of desulfurized rubberized asphalt. Using the gray correlation method, comprehensive indicators for high-, medium-, and low-temperature performance are established. The results reveal that the desulfurized rubber powder with a Menni viscosity of 60 exhibits the highest comprehensive performance indicators. Thus, for high-temperature regions, the use of 60 desulfurized rubber powder with a Menni viscosity of 60 is recommended for asphalt preparation.
First record of the Liriomyza blechi Spencer (Diptera: Agromyzidae) on maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Ferreira Kerolainy R. , Monteiro Nilton J. S. , Santos Lucas G. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study reports the first record of Liriomyza blechi Spencer on maize (Zea mays L.). The notification occurred in the State of Goiás, Brazil, being also the second state to record the presence of the species in Brazil. Morphologically, L. blechi is characterized by a yellow scutum with bands and spots, a yellow scutellum, the presence of two small setae in the posteromedial region of the middle tibia, and a long seta at the apex of the cerci. The identification was confirmed through the morphological analysis of the male genitalia. The mines caused by L. blechi larvae in maize leaves can have irregular shapes and affect the photosynthetic area of the plant. Therefore, this record demonstrates the need for further studies on the bioecology and management of this species, aiming to minimize potential damage to the crop and implement effective control strategies when necessary.
Growth Differentiation Factor – 8 (GDF-8) as a predictor of clinical pregnancy in GnRH-agonist ICSI cycles: A prospective Cohort Study.
Authors: Shoukry Ahmed , Tarek Shaymaa , Hashad Doaa , Hebisha Sherif A. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objective
The objective of this study was to assess the reliability of serum GDF-8 as a predictor of clinical pregnancy after IVF-ET and to investigate the relationship between serum GDF-8 and P4 for more understanding the function of GDF-8 in controlling serum P4 during COS.
Methods
A prospective cohort study was conducted with 42 women who underwent ICSI-ET and were recruited from a single fertility center in Alexandria, Egypt, from May 2023 to January 2024. A conventional long agonist protocol was used, and the serum levels of P and GDF-8 were measured at different time points. Serum human GDF-8 ELISA kits were used in accordance with the manufacturer’s protocol.
Results
The GDF-8 and P4 serum levels on the hCG day showed a highly significant negative correlation, the GDF-8 and P4 serum levels 2 weeks after ET showed a highly statistically significant negative correlation (p < 0.001), and there was a highly significant positive correlation between a decline in GDF-8 and a rise in P4 serum levels (from the day of hCG day to the day of OPU). The GDF-8 level was ≥ 3.9 ng/ml on the day of hCG seems to be a sensitive predictor of pregnancy following ICSI-ET
Conclusion
During controlled ovarian stimulation, GDF-8 level exhibits a dynamic pattern in conjunction with serum progesterone level. High serum level of GDF-8 (> 3.9 ng/ml), followed by a decline in this level (by > 1.35 ng/ml) might be reliable predictor of pregnancy after ICSI-ET.
Trial registration number:
NCT06529627 (retrospectively registered on 31/07/2024).
The Impact of Goat Hair as a Natural Animal Fiber on Properties of the Lightweight Cement Composite
Authors: Hassas Najmeh , Moaf Farzam Omidi , Kurpińska Marzena , Bardzińska-Bonenberg Teresa , Borucka Justyna , Abdelgader Hakim S. , Soman Rohan , Miśkiewicz Mikołaj 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of goat hair as a natural fiber reinforcement in lightweight cement composites, aiming to enhance the mechanical properties and sustainability of building materials. The research systematically evaluates the flexural and compressive strengths of cement composites reinforced with goat hair fibers, observing performance across two key time frames: the 7th and 28th days after mixing. Results indicate that the inclusion of goat hair significantly improves both the flexural and compressive strengths of the composites over time. The best result was obtained at a 0.4% ratio of goat hair to cement. This research underscores the effectiveness of goat hair in cement composites, suggesting that such natural fiber reinforcements can contribute to more sustainable and durable building practices. The findings advocate for further exploration of natural fibers in the construction industry, aiming to optimize eco-friendly materials for improved mechanical properties and environmental impact.
Study on the Mechanism of Pressure Reduction in Gangue-Filled Mining and Sensitivity of Main Controlling Factors
Authors: Zhu Lei , xu yunong , liu chengyong , zhou yuejin , gu wenzhe , zhou nan , liu zhicheng 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Gangue-filled mining technology represents the significant advancement in green mining. To investigate the mechanism of pressure reduction in gangue-filled mining and the sensitivity of main controlling factors, the mechanical model was first developed based on the advanced support pressure in mining. The method for calculating mining pressure in filled mining was derived from beam structural stress characteristics. Then, numerical simulation methods were employed to analyze the pressure reduction patterns in gangue-filled mining based on the geological conditions. Finally, orthogonal experiments were conducted on main controlling factors, and sensitivity analysis was performed using range analysis and variance analysis to determine the sensitivity of each controlling factor. The results show that: (1) Pressure manifestation in gangue-filled mining is determined through main controlling factors including mining height, filling ratio, and gangue elastic modulus; (2) Under the support of coal gangue, the concentrated stress in the coal seam significantly decreases, forming an "arched" shape according to the construction stage; (3) The range of plastic failure in the coal seam remains relatively stable under filled mining and the plastic zone of the roof plate shows a strip-like distribution; (4) Range analysis and variance analysis revealed the sensitivity ranking as filling ratio > mining height > elastic modulus of the filling material. Variance analysis also indicates mining height and filling ratio have significant impacts on mining pressure, whereas the elastic modulus of coal gangue has a negligible impact.
Expression characteristics of CsESA1 in citrus and analysis of its interacting protein
Authors: He Xiao , Wang Huiying , Wei Wei , Han ziyue , Zuo Jiaqi , He Qing 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The most damaging disease affecting citrus globally is Huanglongbing (HLB), primarily attributed to the infection by ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (CaLas). Based on comparative transcriptome data, two cellulose synthase (CESA) genes responsive to CaLas infection induction were screened, and one gene cloned with higher differential expression level was selected and named CsCESA1. The yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) and Bimolecular Fluorescent Complementation (BiFC) experiments confirmed the interaction between CsCESA1 and citrus exopolysaccharide 2 (CsEPS2). Subcellular localization in tobacco indicated that both CsCESA1 and CsEPS2 proteins are primarily located in the nucleus and cytoplasm. RT-qPCR analysis indicated that the expression levels of CsCESA1 and CsEPS2 were associated with variety tolerance, tissue site, and symptom development. Furthermore, we employed the Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) system to generate CsCESA1 and CsEPS2 silencing plants. We established a stable transformation system mediated by Agrobacterium rhizogenes in citrus and obtained CsCESA1 and CsEPS2 silencing and overexpressing hairy roots. The analysis of hormone content and gene expression also showed that CsCESA1 and CsEPS2 are involved in transcriptional regulation of genes involved in systemic acquired resistance (SAR) response. In conclusion, our results suggested that CsCESA1 and CsEPS2 could serve as potential resistance genes for HLB disease, offering insights into the plant's defense mechanisms against HLB.
Teamwork assessment in undergraduate Engineering courses
Authors: Pang Toh Yen , Kootsookos Alexandra , Fox Kate , Pirogova Elena 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study explores the effective design and development of a rubric that enhance learning and collaboration in project-based learning (PBL) environments. By gathering surveys and feedback from 152 Engineering undergraduate students and 12 staff members, we gained insights into the key elements and features of a rubric suitable for assessing teamwork skills in PBL contexts. The students emphasised the fairness and transparency on how the rubric was communicated and explained in addressing all assessment requirements, so that these were clearly understood by both academics and students. The academics noted the important elements of good teamwork, including anticipation, initiative, helping others, communicating, problem-solving, and actively seeking and suggesting solutions that show critical thinking and innovation. The outcome of our study supports the longer-term development of rubrics and their broader application as tools for assessing teamwork. These insights benefit researchers examining rubrics and seeking to understand academics' and students' perspectives.
Symptom Clusters and Sentinel Symptoms During the Third and Fourth Cycles of Postoperative Chemotherapy in Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Ma Jingshuang , Wang Yanjie , Li Wei , Wang Aiping 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Lung cancer has the highest incidence and mortality in China, and patients after lobectomy experience serious physical and psychological symptoms during chemotherapy. Studies are lacking about symptom clusters and sentinel symptoms during the postoperative chemotherapy period in lung cancer patients.
Objective: To explore the stability of symptom clusters and sentinel symptoms during the 3nd and 4th cycles of postoperative chemotherapy in patients with lung cancer.
Methods: The study was a longitudinal study. Lung cancer patients after lobectomy were measured at 2 separate points:chemotherapy cycle 3 and chemotherapy cycle 4. The measures administered included M.D.Anderson Symptom Inventor Lung Cancer Specific Module and Self-made First Appearance of Symptoms Time Sheet.
Results: A total of 180 postoperative patients with lung cancer participated in the study. Five symptom clusters and three sentinel symptoms were identified at chemotherapy cycle 3. Four symptom clusters and three sentinel symptoms were identified at chemotherapy cycle 4.
Conclusions: Symptom clusters and sentinel symptoms were relatively stable during the 3nd and 4th cycles of postoperative chemotherapy in patients with lung cancer.
Implications for practice: The understanding of symptom clusters and sentinel symptoms could be beneficial for clinicians to assess and manage symptoms in postoperative patients with lung cancer during chemotherapy. Clinicians should pay close attention to sentinel symptoms and develop effective interventions to reduce the symptom burden of patients.
Spatial-based mapping of the groundwater potential zones of Akaki catchment in the surrounding highlands of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Nigussie Getamesay , Argaw Mekuria , Nedaw Dessie , Tadesse Tsegaye , Hartmann Andreas 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Human activities and climate change are hindering water supply in the Akaki catchment. This issue is aggravated by the reduction in groundwater levels due to excessive withdrawal. Hence, this study investigated the potential groundwater areas within the catchment by considering eight different factors. Eight thematic map layers were created utilizing ArcGIS. The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) was conducted using the geospatial monitoring and modeling system software (i.e., TerrSet- v.19.0.6). Through the analysis, it was determined that lithology (31%), rainfall (23%), lineament density (18%), drainage density (11%), slope (6%), land use (4%), soil (4%), and elevation (3%) exhibit their respective degrees of significance on groundwater potential in the catchment. Pair-wise computations showed an acceptable range, displaying a consistency ratio below 0.1. Subsequently, a weighted overlay analysis was done and it revealed that approximately 41% of the catchment area is situated in the Northeast, Central, and Northwest regions characterized by moderate groundwater potential. Also, about 43% of the catchment, located in the Northwest, Central, and Southeast regions, shows a high groundwater potential. In the southern part, an area covering approximately 15% of the catchment, has been identified as having a very high groundwater potential. Furthermore, single-parameter sensitivity analysis indicated that lithology, rainfall, and lineament were the parameters unveiling the highest sensitivity. Finally, the results were validated by superimposing data from 199 wells onto the categorized groundwater potential regions, indicating that the majority (76%) of the wells aligned with high and very high groundwater potential zones. Additionally, the validation demonstrates excellent groundwater predictability with an overall AUC value of 0.925. Therefore, the study underscores the importance of gaining a deep understanding of the factors influencing groundwater potential within the catchment to plan a sustainable supply of groundwater resources.
Effects of Particle Size Distribution and Moisture Content on the Motion and Deposit Characteristics of Landslide Debris Flow
Authors: Ma Ming-wei , Zhou Jia-wen , Yang Xing-guo , Liang Yi-hui , Yang Tao , Liao Hai-mei 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Landslide debris flows likely do great damage to communal facilities in mountain area by wide range of sliding motion and deposit, which have close relation with the features of source area and sliding path. Based on physical model experiments in this study, the interaction between debris flows and adjacent terrain has been simulated to investigate the sliding motion and deposit characteristics with different particle size distributions and moisture contents of source debris flows. Distinct deposit characteristics including fingering deposits, inverse grading and transverse ridges could be observed from the tests. With the particle size increasing, both debris flow travel distance and deposit width increase, while the maximum deposit height gradually decreases. With the moisture content increasing, both debris flow travel distance and deposit width initially increase then decrease. Besides, the debris flow velocity is faster with larger particle sizes but slower with higher moisture content. Energy loss during debris flow sliding motion is primarily caused by friction and collision. Analysis according to experiments show that an increase in moisture content would amplify the loss of frictional energy but diminish the collision energy, but both particle size distribution and moisture content have relatively minor influence on total energy loss.
A Novel Metabolic Risk Classification Incorporating Body Fat, Waist Circumference, and Muscle Strength in Young Mexican Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ceron Hector Saldivar , Millan Carlos Robledo , Dominguez Maria Diaz , Ramírez Ari Castañeda 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: The rising prevalence of metabolic diseases requires new risk assessment tools beyond BMI and waist circumference (WC). A phenotyping system combining body fat percentage (%BF) and WC has been proposed to better stratify cardiometabolic risk, but muscle strength, a key metabolic health predictor, remains underexplored. This study introduces a novel risk classification system integrating %BF, WC, and grip strength (GS) to enhance risk identification in young adults in Mexico.
Methods:In this cross-sectional study, 300 young adults (18-22 years) from Mexico City were assessed for %BF, WC, and GS using standardized protocols. Participants were classified into risk categories using both traditional and new criteria, including the novel phenotyping system.
Results:The existing %BF-WC system categorized 29.8% of males and 22.2% of females as "no risk." Slightly increased risk included 19% of males and 25% of females, while increased risk comprised 34.5% of males and 24.5% of females. High and very high risks included 16.6% of males and 28.2% of females. The new system, including GS, reduced "no risk" to 15.5% of males and 11.6% of females and increased those at higher risk (70.2% of males, 69% of females). The system also identified a protective condition group. Significant reclassification was observed (p < 0.001).
Conclusions: Integrating muscle strength into metabolic risk assessment alongside %BF and WC provides a more refined understanding of metabolic health, effectively identifying at-risk individuals who may be overlooked by existing methods.