bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Welding consumable selection for 304B4 borated stainless steel
Authors: M Divya , Das C.R. , M Vasudevan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

304B4 borated stainless steel is used for neutron shielding in intermediate heat exchangers of Indian prototype fast breeder reactor. The weldability of this stainless steel is poor and there is no standard consumable available for welding this steel. Hence, selection of a proper consumable and welding of this steel poses severe challenge during fabrication of components. In this study, weldability of 304B4 SS weld joint prepared using E308 is evaluated using spot Varestraint test technique. The weldability of this consumable is compared with other consumables like E309 and boron added E308BRN. E308 consumable shows better weldability than E309 consumable while joining 304B4 SS after buttering. Mechanical properties of the weldments prepared using E308 and 304B4 filler wire were evaluated and compared with the properties of weldments prepared using E309 and E308BRN. E308 consumable shows tensile properties on par with E309 weldment and also, better impact toughness than E309 weld metal. Whereas, the 304B4 SS filler wire shows better tensile strength and weldability than E308 or E309 weld joints but poor weld metal impact toughness. The study gives a clear guidance on selection of appropriate consumable for welding borated stainless steels based on the intended function of the fabricated component.
SPH Analysis of Wind-Sand Transport on Embankments with Varying Slopes
Authors: Gao Wenxiu , Jin Afang , Yan Ming 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This study aims to use the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method to simulate the movement of wind-sand flow on small-scale embankments with different slope ratios. Traditional numerical methods based on grids are not well-suited for small-scale models due to their sensitivity to large grid deformations and distortions. In contrast, the SPH method represents the solution domain through discretized independent particles, allowing it to effectively resolve various issues stemming from large grid deformations or distortions. Therefore, this study uses the SPH method to construct an embankment model with virtual particles, establish a two-phase flow model of wind-sand flow on the embankment, develop an SPH program for simulating wind-sand flow on embankments using the C programming language, and analyze the wind-sand flow field on embankments with different slope ratios. The results show that the variation in embankment slope ratios has a significant impact on the wind-sand flow field. As the slope ratio decreases continuously, the embankment gradually slows down, and the weakened wind speed zones on both sides of the embankment gradually decrease. Consequently, the area of sand accumulation diminishes progressively, making it less prone to sand accumulation.
A Bayesian life-course linear structural equations model (BLSEM) to explore the development of body mass index (BMI) from the prenatal stage until middle age.
Authors: Jarvelin Marjo-Riitta , Tzala Evangelia , Banterle Marco , Karhunen Ville , Bond Tom , Tolvanen Mimmi , Kaakinen Marika , Sebert Sylvain , Lewin Alexandra 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

OBJECTIVE AND METHODS: We have developed a novel Bayesian Linear Structural Equations Model (BLSEM) with variable selection priors (available as an R package) to build directed acyclic graphs to delineate complex variable associations and pathways to BMI development. Conditional on standard assumptions used in causal inference, the model provides interpretable estimates with uncertainty for natural direct and indirect (mediated) effects.
RESULTS: We showcase our method using data on 4 119 offspring followed from the pre-pregnancy period to age 46 years(y) in a Finnish population-based birth cohort. The BLSEM enabled efficiently to analyse all available data over the long-time span, identifying factors to distil potential causal pathways contributing to adult BMI development. All of the associations between early childhood and adolescence variables with adult BMI at 46y (BMI46) were indirect via multiple paths. For example, maternal prepregnancy BMI, smoking and socioeconomic position associated with BMI46 through 35, 31 and 26 paths. Another notable feature was that the contribution of very early life factors, particularly prenatal, was captured by growth patterns along the childhood which were the strongest early predictors of middle age BMI46 (the age at adiposity rebound (AgeAR), early growth parameters between the AgeAR to 11y). BMI and blood pressure measured 15y earlier also predicted BMI46, all other factors held constant. Genetic predisposition by the polygenic risk score for BMI, showed an indirect effect that became apparent at AgeAR and thereafter.
CONCLUSIONS: The Bayesian approach we present and BLSEM software developed advances methodologies for the analysis of complex, multifaceted life-course data prior to the estimation of potential causal pathways. Our results, although exploratory in nature, suggest that the effective interventions to tackle adverse BMI development could be designed throughout childhood though period by AgeAR maybe paramount. We feature the importance of integrated life-course analyses that help to understand the contribution of life-stage factors of development.
Wind Speed Interannual Variability with Measured Data Validations and its Impact on Energy Yield in the Southwest Sea of Korea
Authors: Ryu Geonhwa , Sargin Okan , Kim Hyojeong , Lee Dohee , Pulo Anna , Kim Hyun-Goo , Kim Chang Ki , Moon Chae-Joo , Kim Jin-Young 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The Republic of Korea (ROK) has set an ambitious goal of 40.7 GW of onshore and offshore wind farms by 2038, as outlined in the "11th Basic Plan for Electricity Supply and Demand" in May 2024. To achieve this target, both wind farm developers and the government are crafting policies for "Project Site Planning" and "Offshore Wind Farm Clusters." A major concern for stakeholders is the variability in annual wind resource driven by climate phenomena and climate change, which can lead to increased uncertainty in energy yield predictions. This study investigates the interannual wind speed variability (IAV) of wind speed in the Southwest Sea of Korea, a critical factor influencing energy yield predictions and the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) for offshore wind farms. To achieve this, we used reanalysis datasets, validated against measurement data, to calculate a ROK-specific IAV. Our findings indicate a possibility of reduction in LCOE by accurately accounting for regional IAV, particularly in Jeonnam, where 14 GW of offshore wind capacity is projected. This research provides essential data for improving energy yield predictions, thereby enhancing financial confidence and supporting the development of expertise in ROK’s growing wind energy sector.
A Multiscale-Information-Embedded Universal Toxicity Prediction Framework
Authors: He Song , Wu Lianlian , Wang Fanmeng , Zhang Yixin , Li Ruijiang , Zhao Yanpeng , Xu Hongteng , Gao Zhifeng , Bo Xiaochen 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The inherent toxicity of compounds poses a significant threat to human health and the environment throughout their entire lifecycle, encompassing production, use, storage, and disposal. Compound-induced toxicity evaluation is a critical concern across various fields, including drug discovery and environmental studies. Recent advances in deep learning hold promise for predicting compound-induced toxicities. However, existing works often exhibit poor predictive accuracy and generalizability, especially for rare toxicities with limited data. Most works fail to capture the three-dimensional (3D) spatial arrangement and stereochemical properties of compounds, which are crucial for understanding their toxicological profiles. And the interrelated nature of various toxicities has often been overlooked. Here we propose ToxScan, a novel SE(3)-equivariant multiscale model, as a universal toxicity prediction framework to address these issues. A two-level representation learning protocol, encompassing molecular- and atomic-level information, is introduced to better incorporate the geometry information of 3D conformation. A parallel multiscale modelling and a multi-task learning scheme is applied to learn the universal toxicological characteristics of multiple toxicity categories. Through comprehensive analysis in multiple scenarios such as multi-task toxicity prediction, module effectiveness testing, generalization testing on new small-scale endpoints, distinguishing ability on structurally similar compounds with opposing toxicities, in vitro experimental validation of new predictions, and testing on practical application data, ToxScan demonstrates convincing predictive capability and generalizability, surpassing the state-of-the-art by a remarkable 7.8–37.6% performance boost on four metrics for medium- and small-scale endpoints. Typical case studies demonstrate that ToxScan can identify subtle structural variations by capturing molecular structural features at multiple levels. To facilitate user accessibility, we have integrated the trained ToxScan and developed a user-friendly online prediction platform (https://app.bohrium.dp.tech/toxscan), allowing researchers to obtain multiple toxicity endpoint predictions for new compounds quickly and conveniently. We envision ToxScan as a valuable tool for compound-induced toxicity evaluation, effectively reducing analysis cycles and costs while providing practical utility for researchers in drug discovery, toxicology and environmental studies.
Remote Monitoring and Management of Water Quality in the Indian River Ganga: Regression Modelling Approach
Authors: Shakhari Swapan , Banerjee Indrajit 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

There is a critical issue of water quality degradation in the River Ganga that threatens the health and welfare of millions of Indians. The River Ganga's water quality may be monitored and managed with the help of remote location water quality prediction. The goal of this work is to create and assess regression models and error analysis methods for predicting River Ganga water quality at remote locations. The data set used in the study comprises of water quality measurements taken at several sites throughout the River Ganga Basin. These measures include temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, biochemical oxygen demand, nitrate levels. The association between the independent factors (distance and temperature) and the dependent variables (water quality indicators) is established using a linear regression model. The water quality characteristics for unmonitored areas along the river are then predicted using the trained model. These findings enable preemptive actions to be made to reduce water pollution and guarantee the sustainability of the River Ganga ecosystem. They also shed light on the correlations between distance, temperature, and water quality indicators. The findings have consequences for human health, ecosystems, and economies reliant on the Ganga River, and they help build effective water quality monitoring and management measures.
Effect of combining Gold Nanoparticles with Diode or Er. Cr:YSGG Laser on the Bond Strength of Etch- and- Rinse Adhesive to Dentin Surface
Authors: Sadony Doaa Mohamed , Sabry Mona Abdallah , Samier Haitham , Hassan Shahinaz , El-Shahawi Amal 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
The aim of this work is to study the effect of different types of laser and gold nanoparticles on the bond strength of etched and adhesive dentin surface.
Methods
Sixty human molars were collected; the crowns were removed and a cavity (2x3 mm) was prepared on the buccal and lingual surfaces. Then, the teeth were sectioned perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis. The samples were divided according to the adhesive technique used and the hardness was tested by Vickers hardness tester, the roughness was tested by using universal testing machine and the depth of penetration was tested by Scanning electric microscope.
Results
Compared with those in the control group, the hardness in the groups treated with the laser was significantly greater. Moreover, for roughness, group C1 exhibited greater roughness than did the other groups. With respect to the depth of penetration, Group A0 and Group C0 demonstrated the greatest depth of penetration, while Group B0 and Group D0 demonstrated the lowest depth of penetration.
Conclusions
After applying the adhesive, the laser beam improved the diffusion of the material into the dentinal tubules in the presence of gold nanoparticles and increased the hardness and roughness of the dental structure.
Hydroxyethylamine-based analog targets microtubule assembly: An in silico study for anti-cancerous drug development
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Khan Rajni , Singh Basant Narain , Kumari Anisha , Rai Ankit , Singh Anil Kumar , Prakash Amresh , Ray Shashikant 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Microtubules are dynamic cytoskeletal structures essential for cell architecture, cellular transport, cell motility, and cell division. Due to their dynamic nature, known as dynamic instability, microtubules can spontaneously switch between phases of growth (growth phase) and shortening (shortening phase). Disruptions in microtubule functions have been implicated in several diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and birth defects. The critical role of microtubules during various phases of the cell cycle, particularly in cell division, makes them attractive targets for drug development. Several clinically successful drugs currently on the market are designed to target microtubules. However, the presence of cellular toxicity and the development of multidrug resistance necessitate the search for new microtubule-targeting drugs. In this study, we employed in silico methods to screen a library of 106 hydroxyethylamine (HEA) based analogs to identify potent inhibitors of microtubule assembly. We identified three inhibitors BKS3031A (2S, 2’S,3R,3’R)-1,1’-(piperazine-1,4-diyl)bis(3-amino-4-phenylbutan-2-ol), BKS3045A (S)-2-amino-N-((2R,3S)-4-(4-(4-bromobenzyl)piperazin-1-yl)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylbutan-2-yl)-3-phenylpropanamide) and BKS3046A (S)-2-amino-N-((2R,3S)-4-(4-(4-bromobenzyl)piperazin-1-yl)-3-hydroxy-1-phenylbutan-2-yl)-3-methylbutanamide) that bind at the same site as the well-known microtubule-targeting agent colchicine. These inhibitors were simulated for 100 ns with tubulin complexes, and the results indicated that they remain stable within the binding pocket of α-β tubulin complexes. Our findings suggest that these novel modified inhibitors have the potential to bind to and perturb the microtubule network, positioning them as promising microtubule-targeting agents. Moreover, in vivo and in vitro studies will further validate the potential of these inhibitors as suitable drug candidates against cancer.
Are “Global Measures” of Psychological Intimate Partner Violence Against Women Really Comparable? A Measurement Invariance Analysis of Controlling Behaviors in 19 Low- and Middle- Income Countries
Authors: Yount Kathryn M. , Johnson Erin , Kaslow Nadine , Cheong Yuk Fai 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
One third of adult women report lifetime psychological intimate partner violence (IPV). Controlling behavior is a common dimension of psychological IPV; however, evidence is mixed on its cross-national and cross-time measurement invariance, limiting its use to monitor Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5.2.1, to eliminate all forms of violence against women. We explored easier-to-modify survey-design features and harder-to-modify individual-level and national-level characteristics that may account for non-invariance of these controlling-behavior items.
Methods
We analyzed data on five controlling behaviors administered to 373,167 ever-partnered women 15–49 years in 19 low- or middle-income countries in which at least two national Demographic and Health Surveys were administered during 2005–2019. We performed multiple-group confirmatory factor analysis (MGCFA) to test for exact forms of invariance and alignment optimization (AO) to test for approximate invariance across 7–9 survey-design groups, defined by the number of preceding questionnaire modules (to proxy respondent burden) and weeks of interviewer training (to proxy interviewer skills). Adjustment for covariates in the MGCFA assessed whether individual- and national-level characteristics could account for any observed non-invariance across survey-design groups.
Results
In MGCFA without covariates, configural invariance of the controlling-behavior items was observed across survey-design groups. Exact invariance, partial invariance (with 20% of parameter estimates freed), and approximate invariance were not observed across groups. In adjusted MGCFA, neither woman-level covariates (schooling, attitudes about IPV against women) nor national-level covariates (women’s mean schooling, mean attitudes about IPV against women, gender-related legal environment) alone or combined accounted for the non-invariance of controlling-behavior items across survey-design groups.
Conclusions
Comparing estimates for controlling behavior across country, time, and survey design variations warrants caution. Standardizing questionnaire length and interviewer training may improve the invariance of these items. Other characteristics, like ethnicity and language, may account for the non-invariance of controlling-behavior items across survey-design groups and should be tested. Current controlling-behavior items should be refined to enhance their comparability, and new controlling-behavior items should be identified and tested to improve the item set’s content validity. Given current evidence of the high prevalence and health impacts of psychological IPV against women, advancing this research agenda is needed to monitor SDG 5.2.1.
Effect of Ethyl Pyruvate Administration Before and After Acute Colitis on Large intestine
Authors: Yorulmaz Elif , Yorulmaz Hatice , Özkök Elif , Küçük Suat Hayri , Sünger Erdem , Ebrahimi Ayyub , Yılmaz Beyza , Altınay Serdar 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The effects of Ethyl Pyruvate (EP) before and after colitis in trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) induced colitis were investigated. Animals were divided to Control, EP, Colitis, Pre-colitis, Post-colitis groups. The matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), MMP-9, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-17 (IL-17), IL-10, IL-1, Nuclear Factor kappa B (NFƘβ), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in tissue were determined. MMP-9, MMP-2, TNF-α, IL-1, IL-12, IL-17, iNOS, NFκB, high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1), and Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) gene expression levels were analyzed. EP treatment decreased macroscopic and microscopic damage scores (p < 0.01) EP treatment decreased most of the inflammatory-related gene expression levels in the pre- and post-colitis compared to the colitis. EP application reduced IL-1 and IL-17, MMP-9, MMP-2, and NFƘβ, especially in the post-colitis group (p < 0.05). The study shown that EP application has a therapeutic effect as well as a protective effect on large intestine in colitis.
High-resolution Microbiome Analysis of Host-Rich Samples Using 2bRAD-M Without Host Depletion
Authors: Jiang Yuesong , Liu Jiang , Zhang Yufeng , Zhou Lisha , Kao Enoch , Hou Shuwen , Niu Qianya , Liu Yongxin , Xu Zhenjiang Zech , Ding Tao , Wang Xiuping , Teng Fei , Huang Shi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Characterizing human microbiota in samples is crucial for understanding host-microbe interactions but remains challenged by high host DNA contamination. Current depletion strategies are limited by DNA loss and require immediate processing. In this paper, we introduce 2bRAD-M, a reduced metagenomic sequencing method that offers an efficient and integrated analysis of the host-microbe ecosystem, overcoming issues of high host contamination.
Results
Validated on mock samples with > 90% human DNA, 2bRAD-M achieved over 93% in AUPR and L2 similarity metrics. In real saliva samples, it captured diurnal and host-specific microbiome patterns which matched whole metagenome sequencing (WMS) with only 5–10% sequencing effort. In an early childhood caries (ECC) study, 2bRAD-M identified key bacterial indicators and distinguished ECC from healthy subjects with an AUC of 0.92, demonstrating its utility in high host DNA contexts.
Conclusions
2bRAD-M represents a significant technical advancement in microbiome research, particularly in tackling high host DNA contamination. Its ability to provide high-resolution microbial profiles without the need for immediate host depletion processing offers a practical and efficient alternative to existing methods.
Determinants of puerperal sepsis among mothers who give birth at Jigjiga public hospitals, Somali Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Ali Hassan Nur , Tahlil Abdullahi Ahmed , Mohamud Mahad Ali , Daud Fuad Ismail , Gobena Tesfaye , Umeokonkwo Chukwuma David , Ibrahim Ahmed Mohammed 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Puerperal sepsis is a significant public health concern in low-resource settings, including Ethiopia, where it is a major contributor to maternal mortality, accounting for 13% of maternal deaths. We investigated the determinants of puerperal sepsis among mothers who give birth at Jigjiga Public Hospitals, Somali Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia.
Methods:A facility-based unmatched case-control design was employed, with a sample size of 227 (76 cases and 151 controls). The study was conducted at two public hospitals in Jigjiga, Eastern Ethiopia, from January 2022 to December 2022. Data was collected using a standardized structured questionnaire and medical record review. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 26. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the determinants of puerperal sepsis. The level of significance was set at 0.05.
Results: The mean age of the mothers was 30.2±10.2 years for cases and 31.5±6.7 years for controls. The results showed that not attending antenatal care regularly (aOR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.483-6.940), having fewer antenatal care follow-ups (aOR: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.608-6.589), membranes rupturing for less than 24 hours (aOR: 4.6, 95% CI: 1.933-11.028), and having fewer pelvic examinations (aOR: 12.1, 95% CI: 2.873-19.131) were determinants of puerperal sepsis.
Conclusion: The study found that several factors were associated with puerperal sepsis, including irregular antenatal care attendance, fewer antenatal follow-ups, delayed membrane rupture, and fewer pelvic examinations. To address this issue, healthcare providers and policymakers should prioritize improving access to quality antenatal care, empowering mothers through education and enhancing maternal education, and implementing evidence-based guidelines for managing obstetric complications.