bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Source rock characterization using seismic data inversion and well log analysis; a case study from Kazhdumi Formation, NW Persian Gulf
Authors: Rahimi Mehran , Alizadeh Bahram , Seyedali Seyed Mohsen 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Source rock characterization is one of the important approaches in the field of geophysics and petroleum geology. The source rock characterization in a sedimentary basin is economically crucial in conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon resources. This investigation uses the integration of seismic data inversion methods and geochemical data to evaluate an accurate total organic carbon (TOC) of the Kazhdumi Formation in the NW of the Persian Gulf. The Kazhdumi Formation with Cretaceous age is an important source rock in the NW of the Persian Gulf and Zagros region. The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the TOC content as one of the important geochemical parameters of the Kazhdumi Formation by integrating pre- and post-seismic inversion results, and well logs analysis. This study uses the artificial neural network (ANN) algorithm and well logs e.g., sonic, neutron, density, gamma-ray, and resistivity to evaluate the TOC log along with the Rock-Eval pyrolysis to analyze the actual data. The performance of the ANN algorithm was evaluated using correlation analysis as a cross-validation method by the bind core data sample. The simultaneous, and model-based seismic inversion methods were evaluated in the studied oil field, and the obtained results of seismic inversion methods were evaluated by well logs. The seismic data inversion attributes and the TOC log from the well logs analysis were used in the TOC volume evaluation procedure. Integrating seismic inversion attributes with high lateral resolution and well log with high vertical resolution creates a more accurate TOC value than the conventional methods. The multi-attribute regression (MAR) and artificial neural network (ANN) methods were utilized to estimate the TOC volume of the Kazhdumi Formation, and The obtained results of the MAR and ANN methods of RMSE analysis values are 0.1456 and 0.1098, respectively. The correlation of evaluated TOC between the actual TOC and TOC values using the ANN method based on the seismic inversion attributes is 0.89. The obtained results and data evaluation procedure of this investigation can provide useful information for the geological and geochemical studies in this oil field.
The investigation, Evaluation, and Countermeasures of the Current Situation of Online Physical Education in Universities
Authors: Qian Haonan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In 2019, a sudden outbreak of novel coronavirus disease swept the world, seriously affecting education and teaching. Most universities worldwide have adopted a "learning without classes" model dominated by online teaching. Up to now, this teaching model under the normalization of the epidemic has been popularized worldwide. However, evaluating online teaching quality and the weight of influencing factors have become difficult points in measuring teaching quality; the factors and weights affecting online teaching are problems that need to be studied and solved urgently. This study takes online physical education (PE) teaching in Chinese universities as the research object. Analyzing the relevant research literature, it proposes a weight evaluation method for online PE teaching index in universities based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP)-entropy method-fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method. This method is a new teaching evaluation model that combines the subjective and objective weighting method with the fuzzy evaluation method. We applied the method to the weight analysis of the online PE teaching index in Chinese universities and demonstrated that the method has good applicability. More importantly, we have condensed the conclusions of this research into practical countermeasures and put forward strategies to improve the quality of online PE teaching from the macro and the personal research levels. This research achieves innovation at the application level, improvement at the theoretical level, and focus at the practical level. The research results can help Chinese universities to improve the quality of current online PE teaching and even provide experience and reference for formulating relevant measures for international online teaching.
Integrated Task offloading Scheduling and Trajectory Optimization for UAV-MEC Using SAC-UTO
Authors: Pan Kai , Dong Jiadong , Zheng Chunxiang , Wang Xiaoxiao 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-assisted Mobile Edge Computing (UAV-MEC) systems have emerged as a promising solution for providing efficient computational services to Terminal Devices (TDs) in remote areas or emergency situations, owing to their high flexibility and mobility. However, optimizing UAV flight trajectories while minimizing task computation latency remains a significant challenge. This paper proposes a novel dual-agent framework called SAC-UTO (Dual-Agent SAC-Based UAV Trajectory and Task Offloading Optimization), based on the Soft Actor-Critic (SAC) algorithm from Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL), to optimize task offloading strategies and trajectory planning in UAV-MEC systems. Our approach comprehensively considers TD task offloading scheduling priorities, real-time UAV flight trajectories, and optimal offloading rate allocation among local, UAV-MEC, and Ground-MEC nodes. We model this problem as a mixed-integer nonlinear programming problem and achieve hierarchical decision optimization through two collaborative yet functionally separate agents: Agent 1 optimizes global strategies, focusing on TD task offloading scheduling priorities, while Agent 2 dynamically optimizes UAV flight trajectories and task offloading rates across computational nodes, given the scheduling priorities. By incorporating flight distance factors into the delay reward function, our method reduces UAV flight distances while maintaining equivalent computational latency.
Unraveling the Mechanisms of Benzimidazole Resistance in Hookworms: A Molecular Docking and Dynamics Study
Authors: Tenorio Jan Clyden B. , Heikal Muhammad Fikri , Kafle Alok , Macalalad Mark Andrian B. , Orosco Fredmoore L. , Saichua Prasert , Suttiprapa Sutas 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Benzimidazole resistance is an emerging challenge among parasitic helminths. It is caused by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in specific loci in helminths’ β-tubulin gene. Field studies and laboratory investigations reported resistance-associated SNPs in 4 codon locations with 7 allelic variations among hookworms. This study aimed to determine the effects of these mutations on the binding efficiency and behavior of the β-tubulin protein in four hookworm species against four benzimidazole drugs.
Methods
β-tubulin gene coding sequences of Ancylostoma caninum, A. duodenale, A. ceylanicum, and Necator americanus were retrieved, assessed phylogenetically, and used to construct the 3D structure models of the proteins. The modeled protein structures were verified and edited to contain the reported SNPs: Q134H, F167Y, E198A, E198K, E198V, F200L, and F200Y. Benzimidazole drugs such as albendazole (ABZ), fenbendazole (FBZ), mebendazole (MBZ) and oxfendazole (OBZ) were used as ligands. Molecular docking experiments were performed with the wild-type and mutated proteins. Molecular dynamics simulation assessed the dynamic behavior of the β-tubulin-benzimidazole complex.
Results
In silico docking assessments showed that various amino acid substitutions due to resistance-associated SNPs cause alterations in binding affinities and positions. E198K and Q134H in hookworm β-tubulins substantially weakened the binding affinities and altered the binding positions of benzimidazole drugs. Molecular dynamics analysis revealed that these mutations also caused marked reductions in the binding free energies owing to diminished hydrogen bond contacts with the benzimidazole ligands.
Conclusion
The evidence shown herein indicates that mutations at positions 198 and 134 are detrimental to conferring benzimidazole resistance among hookworms. The presence of these mutations in may alter the efficacy of pharmacological interventions. Hence, further studies should be conducted to assess their emergence among hookworms in endemic areas with histories of chemotherapy.
Sensitivity Enhanced Dual-Core Photonic Crystal Fiber Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor Based on Gold Film
Authors: Zhao Zihong , Pan Honggang , You Qingcheng , Zhu Yukun , Li Rupeng , Chen Chunqi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we proposed a dual-core D-shaped photonic crystal fiber surface plasmon resonance refractive index sensor based on gold film. The proposed sensor uses two symmetrical fiber cores for enhanced surface plasmon resonance coupling to obtain extremely high amplitude sensitivity. The influence of structural parameters on the sensing performance was investigated. According to the simulation results, the sensor has a superior performance, which achieved the ultra high amplitude sensitivity of 8134.9 RIU− 1, a high average AS of 5,358.25 RIU− 1, the amplitude interrogation resolution of 1.87×10− 6 RIU, the maximum wavelength sensitivity of 39,000 nm/RIU, the wavelength interrogation resolution of 2.56×10− 6 RIU− 1 in a refractive index detection range of 1.37–1.40, and the maximum FOM of 246 RIU− 1. The proposed sensor has a broad prospect of application in biological, environmental, and chemical detection.
Evaluating Remote Sensing Techniques for Monitoring Grassland Degradation
Authors: Herrmann Pamela Boelter , Kuplich Tatiana Mora , Nascimento Victor Fernandez , Oliveira Cássio Adílio Hoffmann 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Ecosystem degradation represents one of the most significant environmental challenges facing the globe. Of particular concern is the impact of grassland degradation on agricultural productivity, species diversity, and soil erosion. This study aimed to compare the applicability of two remote sensing techniques, the Linear Spectral Mixture Model (LSM) and the Grassland Degradation Index (GDI), in assessing and defining the degree of grassland degradation. The results demonstrated that the GDI exhibited superior overall accuracy than LSM, with an accuracy rate of 73.49% as opposed to 63.16% for the LSM. Additionally, the GDI demonstrated a higher F1 score across all evaluated classes, indicating an enhanced capacity to identify true positives and minimise false positives and negatives. Both techniques demonstrated satisfactory performance and can be employed to support restoration and sustainable management studies.
Postoperative decrease in serum albumin as predictor of early acute periprosthetic infection after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Ishii Yoshinori , Noguchi Hideo , Sato Junko , Takahashi Ikuko , Ishii Hana , Ishii Ryo , Ishii Kei , Ishii Kai , Toyabe Shin-ichi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Patients with hypoalbuminemia, often defined as serum albumin (SA) less than 3.5 g/dL, are at greater risk for complications after surgery. In particular, patients with hypoalbuminemia undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) have an increased postoperative wound infection rate. Most studies, however, report only the preoperative SA. We aimed to analyze not just preoperative SA but also postoperative SA in patients who experienced acute periprosthetic infection in the first 4 weeks after surgery.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed data from 490 consecutive TKAs (314 patients). Five patients developed early acute infection requiring surgical treatment. SA data were collected preoperatively (SA0) and 1 week postoperatively (SA1W) to evaluate SA dynamics. Multiple patient and operative parameters that could influence SA were also analyzed.
Results
There were no statistical differences in any parameters that were expected to influence or might influence SA values in the perioperative period between the surgically treated (STG) and non-treated groups (non-STG). Furthermore, none of the patients in STG had SA0 and SA1W below 3.5 g/dL. However, the amount and rate of SA reduction before and after surgery was significantly greater in STG than in non-STG.
Conclusion
SA dynamics revealed a greater reduction of both the amount and rate in STG before and after surgery than in non-STG. However, no correlation was found between early acute periprosthetic infection after TKA and each SA0 and SA1W time point. We suggest that further evaluation of the SA value of 3.5 g/dL as a threshold for acute early acute infection is warranted.
Primary Patency Success of Arteriovenous Shunts in Hemodialysis Patients: A 28-month Prospective Study at Al-Thawra Modern General Hospital, Yemen
Authors: Almadwahi Nabeel Y. , Al-Dailami Zaid , Al-Mashramah Gehad , Jowah Haitham Mohammed 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: Arteriovenous (AV) shunts are vital for providing long-term vascular access in hemodialysis patients. While brachiocephalic and radiocephalic shunts are commonly employed, data on their primary patency rates and associated complications in resource-limited settings such as Yemen remain scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the primary patency success of AV shunts and identify factors influencing their outcomes in hemodialysis patients at Al-Thawra Modern General Hospital.Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over 28 months, from April 2021 to August 2023, at Al-Thawra Modern General Hospital in Sana’a, Yemen. A total of 163 patients with chronic renal failure requiring AV shunt creation for hemodialysis were included. Data on patient demographics, comorbidities, shunt characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Primary patency was assessed at the 8-month follow-up. Statistical analysis was performed to identify factors associated with shunt patency.Results: Among the 163 patients included, the median age was 43.12 years, with 61.3% undergoing brachiocephalic shunt creation. The overall primary patency rate at 8 months was 87.7%, with brachiocephalic shunts exhibiting a significantly greater patency rate (93.0%) than radiocephalic shunts (67.3%) (p = 0.02). Complications occurred in 25% of patients, with pseudoaneurysm formation being the most common complication (6.1%). Factors such as shunt type, patient age, and comorbidities (e.g., diabetes) significantly influence patency outcomes.Conclusion: Compared with radiocephalic shunts, brachiocephalic shunts demonstrated superior primary patency rates, suggesting that they may be preferable options for long-term hemodialysis access in the studied population. These findings emphasize the need for individualized patient management and careful postoperative monitoring, particularly in resource-limited settings such as Yemen, to optimize AV shunt outcomes.
Alpha-Synuclein Conformations in Plasma Distinguish Parkinson’s Disease from Dementia with Lewy Bodies
Authors: Chen-Plotkin Alice , Kannarkat George , Zack Rebecca , Skrinak R. Tyler , Morley James , Davila-Rivera Roseanne , Arezoumandan Sanaz , Luk Kelvin , Wolk David , Weintraub Daniel , Tropea Thomas , Lee Edward , Xie Sharon , Chandrasekaran Ganesh , Lee Virginia , Irwin David , Akhtar Rizwan , Dorfman Katherine 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Aggregation of misfolded alpha-synuclein (aSyn) within the brain is the pathologic hallmark of Lewy body diseases (LBD), including Parkinson’s disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Evidence exists for aSyn “strains” – conformations with distinct biological properties. However, biomarkers for PD vs. DLB, including potential aSyn strain differences, are lacking. Here, we used two monoclonal antibodies selective for different in vitro aSyn species – termed Strain A and B – to evaluate human brain tissue, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and plasma. Surprisingly, levels of Strain A and B aSyn species differed in plasma from individuals with PD vs. DLB in two independent cohorts. Lower plasma aSyn Strain A species also predicted subsequent PD cognitive decline. Strain A and Strain B aSyn species were undetectable in CSF, but plasma aSyn species could template aSyn fibrillization, particularly in PD. Our findings suggest that aSyn strains may impact LBD clinical presentation and originate outside the brain.
RejuAgro A: A novel antimicrobial for fire blight control of pome fruits and beyond
Authors: Yang Ching-Hong , Huang Jian , Huyen Ton Nu Bao Vy , Liu Xiangyang , Mitra Shreyashi , Yu Manda , Zeng Quan , Sundin George , Cox Kerik , Förster Helga , Adaskaveg James , Kuo Chih-Horng , Yuan Xiaochen 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Fire blight, caused by Erwinia amylovora, severely impacts global apple and pear production. Current control measures rely heavily on conventional antibiotics like streptomycin, oxytetracycline, and kasugamycin, which raise concerns regarding resistance development and environmental impacts. This research introduces RejuAgro A (RAA), a novel antimicrobial produced by Pseudomonas soli 0617-T307, showing potent activity against E. amylovora, including streptomycin-resistant strains. RAA demonstrated efficacy comparable to streptomycin in greenhouse and field trials, effectively reducing fire blight incidence. Furthermore, RAA displayed broad-spectrum activity against diverse plant bacterial and fungal pathogens. The RAA biosynthesis gene cluster in P. soli was identified, revealing key genes essential for its production. RAA presents a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics, potentially enhancing sustainable apple and pear production and addressing antibiotic resistance concerns.
Adipose tissue-derived PRXL2A suppresses hepatic lipogenesis
Authors: Wang Yiguo , Li Zhiyuan , Tian Zheng , Shi Xiaoliu , Long Aijun , Wang Yazhuo , Yang Yan , Wang Yaqi , Zhang Jingjing 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Hepatic de novo lipogenesis (DNL) is crucial for maintaining lipid homeostasis, and its dysregulation is implicated in various metabolic diseases. While it is well established that hepatic DNL is tightly regulated by hormones such as insulin and glucagon secreted from the pancreatic islets during feeding and fasting, further investigations are required to identify more hormones affecting hepatic DNL during the feeding-fasting transition. Here, we identify PRXL2A (peroxiredoxin like 2A), an adipokine secreted during fasting, as an inhibitor of hepatic DNL. Mechanistically, PRXL2A binds to its receptor PTAFR (platelet activating factor receptor), promoting calcium mobilization and activating AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), thereby suppressing SREBP1 (sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1)-controlled hepatic DNL. Disruption of this axis by knockout of either Prxl2a or Ptafr increases hepatic DNL and lipid accumulation. Exogenous PRXL2A reduces hepatic DNL, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for diseases associated with hepatic lipid accumulation. Therefore, the PRXL2A-PTAFR signaling axis links adipose tissues and the liver to regulate hepatic lipid metabolism.
Clinical study for Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety of Softovac Liquifibre in the Management of Functional Constipation and Irregular Bowel Habits in Adults and Children
Authors: Mishra Umesh , Mundhe Narendra , Pande Shishir , Kapse Pradyna , Dubey Ruby , Tamoli Sanjay 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background and objectives:
Constipation is a common bowel dysfunction characterized by infrequent bowel movements. Though modern medical management are well established & safe, they may be habit forming, have potential few side effects & may not provide satisfying relief. The objective of this study was to the evaluate efficacy & safety of an Ayurvedic formulation Softovac Liquifiber in the management of Functional constipation & irregular bowel habits in adults and children.
Materials and methods:
The study was conducted in two cohorts, adults and children. The adult cohort comprised of two arms randomly allotted to either Softovac Liquifiber or control group (marketed liquid laxative preparation). A total of 64 participants completed the study in this cohort, 33 participants in Softovac Liquifiber group and 31 participants in the control group. Children cohort was a single arm non-comparative study with a total of 32 participants. Adult participants were asked to consume Softovac Liquifiber in a dose of 20 ml at bedtime while in the children cohort the dose was 5-10 ml at bedtime. The total duration of study product consumption was 14 days after which participants were followed further for 7 days without taking the study products. Evaluation of efficacy was done by assessing the frequency of bowel movements, consistency of stool on Bristol scale along with other symptoms associated with constipation.
Results:
A statistically significant improvement was observed in the frequency of bowel movement, softening of stool, reduction in straining on defecation & sensation of anorectal blockage and requirement of manual maneuvers with the use of Softovac Liquifibre. Results in the adult cohort were comparable between the two groups (non significant difference). Significant improvement in frequency and softening of stool was observed in children along with reduction in symptoms of constipation. No adverse effects were observed and no significant changes were observed in laboratory related safety parameters.
Conclusion:
The study concludes that Softovac Liquifibre was significantly effective in increasing frequency of bowel movements, softening of stool, reducing straining on defecation, sensation of anorectal blockage and requirement of manual maneuvers in adults and children suffering from functional constipation and irregular bowel habit. Symptoms of functional constipation did not recur after stoppage of Softovac Liquifiber both in adults as well as in children suggesting non-habit-forming nature of Softovac Liquifibre.
Impact of standard and long-lasting ivermectin formulations in cattle and buffalo on wild Anopheles survival on Sumba Island, Indonesia
Authors: Kobylinski Kevin C. , Satoto Tri B. T. , Nurcahyo Wisnu , Nugraheni Yudi Ratna , Testamenti Vincentius A. , Winata I Putu B. A. , Pono Yosua L. , Timoria Diana , Assawasuwannakit Piyanan , Chambers Mary , Baird J. Kevin , Tarning Joel , von Seidlein Lorenz , Bøgh Claus 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The mosquito-lethal effect of commercially available standard and long-lasting ivermectin formulations were evaluated in cattle and buffalo against wild-caught Anopheles on Sumba Island, Indonesia. Cattle have substantially higher blood-level concentrations of ivermectin compared to buffalo after receiving similar doses, irrespectively of formulation. In total, nine Anopheles species were captured to assess the mosquito-lethal effects of ivermectin with susceptibility ranked from lowest to highest: An. flavirostris < An. aconitus < An. annularis < An. tessellatus < An. maculatus < An. sundaicus < An. vagus < An. kochi < An. barbirostris. The duration of mosquito-lethal effect of long-lasting ivermectin was superior to standard ivermectin and in cattle it well exceeded the WHO criteria for new endectocides having a mortality hazard ratio greater than 4 through 30 days after administration. Buffalo may require higher doses of long-lasting ivermectin to achieve similar mosquito-lethal effects observed in cattle. Of the four hosts evaluated buffalo were the most attractive to Anopheles followed by cattle then horse and finally humans. This study demonstrates, for the first time, the superiority of a commercially available long-lasting ivermectin formulation for the potential deployment of mass ivermectin treatment of livestock as a vector control tool for malaria elimination in Southeast Asia.