bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multi-agent reinforcement learning for the control of three-dimensional Rayleigh-Bénard convection
Authors: Vasanth Joel , Rabault Jean , Alcántara-Ávila Francisco , Mortensen Mikael , Vinuesa Ricardo 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Deep reinforcement learning (DRL) has found application in numerous use-cases pertaining to flow control. Multi-agent RL (MARL), a variant of DRL, has shown to be more effective than single-agent RL in controlling flows exhibiting locality and translational invariance. We present, for the first time, an implementation of MARL-based control of three-dimensional Rayleigh-Bénard convection (RBC). Control is executed by modifying the temperature distribution along the bottom wall divided into multiple control segments, each of which acts as an independent agent. Two regimes of RBC are considered at Rayleigh numbers Ra = 500 and 750. Evaluation of the learned control policy reveals a reduction in convection intensity by 23.5% and 8.7% at Ra = 500 and 750, respectively. The MARL controller converts irregularly shaped convective patterns to regular straight rolls with lower convection that resemble flow in a relatively more stable regime. We draw comparisons with proportional control at both Ra and show that MARL is able to outperform the proportional controller. The learned control strategy is complex, featuring different non-linear segment-wise actuator delays and actuation magnitudes. We also perform successful evaluations on a larger domain than used for training, demonstrating that the invariant property of MARL allows direct transfer of the learnt policy.
Synthesis and Characterization of Ecosorbents and Their Application in Waste Cooking Oil
Authors: Neto Thalita Silva , Silva Andressa I. C. , Monteceli Francisco M. , Barbosa Rennan F. S. , Conceição Monique O. T. , Medeiros Simone F. , Rosa Derval S. , Mulinari Daniella R. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Globally, millions of tons of waste cooking oils (WCO) are generated yearly, and the recovery rate for manufacturing chemicals such as biodiesel is still low. Unfortunately, part of the WCO has been directly discharged into natural environments, underscoring the industrial significance of developing novel technologies for its utilization. As a possible solution to its recovery, this research proposes a new approach for Agave Americana fiber (AF) as a filler in castor oil-based polyurethane, obtaining ecosorbents and evaluating the sorption capacity of WCO. The pristine PU and PU/AFX% ecosorbents (X stands for AF content between 5 to 20 wt%.) were characterized by SEM, OM, density, FTIR, XRD, contact angle (CA), TGA, and water absorption. The inclusion of AF fillers impacted density and influenced morphological, physical-chemical, and thermal properties. Sorption capacity and efficiency were evaluated by varying the contact time and concentration in the oil/water system, and a direct influence of fiber content on sorption capacity was observed. PU/AF20% presented the highest CA and the best sorption capacity and efficiency. Response surface methodology (RSM) evaluated the optimization behavior of sorption capacity (for water and oil), emphasizing a strong dependency on sorption capacity as a function of fiber content variation. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models well-defined the sorption mechanisms, and the Langmuir model demonstrated the best fit for PU/AF20%, exhibiting a maximum adsorption capacity of 163.93 g g-1. PU/AF20% reusability was evaluated for 21 cycles with a maximum efficiency of 74.2% for oil systems. Thus, AF is an innovative filler in castor oil-based polyurethane for discarded waste cooking oil sorption.
Mindray CL-900i Assay: An Effective assay for HBsAg Screening with Superior Specificity
Authors: Nasrallah Gheyath K. , Younes Salma , Younes Nadin , Nizamuddin Parveen B. , Alabdulmalek Maryam A , Mohammad Khadija N. , Chaar Dayana El , Elshaikh Manal , Abouassali Mazen Najib , Karimeh Ibrahim Wissam , Ibrahim Mohammed Abdelfatah , Ali Mutaz Mohamed , Shaar Ibrahim Al , Louyin Zhu , Ammaranond Palanee , Abu-Raddad Laith J. , Ismail Ahmed 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The CLIA automated Abbott-Architect HBsAg screening assay is globally recognized for its superior sensitivity but notably low specificity. This mandates positive results confirmation by another confirmatory assay, such as the widely used Abbott-Architect HBsAg neutralizing assay. Aim: To evaluate performance of the new CLIA Mindray-CL-900i HBsAg screening assay compared to Architect neutralizing/confirmatory assays. Methods: 200 archived HBsAg positive and negative samples by Architect screening were selected for this study. These samples were classified as follows: T.P. (n=39): positive by both Architect screening and confirmatory assays; T.N. (n=144): negative by both Architect screening and confirmatory assays; F.P. (n=17): positive by Architect screening but negative by confirmatory assay. All samples were retested using Mindray-CL-900i HBsAg screening assay. Results: Compared to Architect confirmatory assays, Mindray HBsAg CL-900i demonstrated perfect agreement with the confirmatory assay, as indicated by a Cohen's Kappa value of 0.98 (0.95 - 0.10). Mindray-CL-900i exhibited a sensitivity of 97%, PPV of 100%, and NPV of 99%. The specificity was 100%, as none of the T.N. and F.P. results were identified as positive. Conclusion: Mindray-CL-900i could offer a cost-effective alternative for HBsAg screening, boasting perfect specificity and overcoming the limitations of current automated assays.
Novel Hybrid Arbitar Based True Random Number Generation Circuits for FPGAs in the Cloud
Authors: Narayanapuram Bhagyalakshmi , Jeebananda Panda 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this article, a new true random number generator (TRNG) with out ring oscillators is presented to suit advanced cloud-based Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). For example Amazon Web Service (AWS) EC2 F1 restrict ring oscillators to generate True random numbers. This design is compatible to all cloud based FPGA providers because in our design not having any Ring oscillator stage to produce random outputs. Our design is based on hybrid arbiter controller with closed feedback mechanism. This novel design is immune to photon emission and fault injection side channel attacks. Our TRNG implemented on Artix-7 FPGA with only 168 LUT, 40Flip flops, 69 slices and through put 8.6.
Efficacy and Safety of Various Intravenous Lidocaine Infusion Doses Combined with Ropivacaine for Transversus Abdominis Plane Block in Pain Management for Elderly Patients undergoing Colorectal Cancer Surgery: a pilot study
Authors: Yu Feng , Xu Yan , Tang Qianqian , Wang Qiong , Ye Mao , Xiao Xiao , Wang Hanbing , Shao Kun , Zhu Tingxi , Zhou Li , Jiang Chunling 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background Perioperative lidocaine infusion benefits abdominal surgery patients, but the optimal dose in elderly patients remains unclear. While Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block is a recognized analgesic method, its combination with lidocaine infusion in elderly patients needs further investigation. This study aims to assess the impact and safety of different lidocaine infusion doses combined with ropivacaine TAP block on postoperative analgesia in elderly patients undergoing colorectal cancer resection.Methods Patients (n = 55 per group) were randomized into four groups. After a preoperative 0.25% ropivacaine bilateral TAP block, patients received perioperative 1% lidocaine at 0.5, 1.0, or 1.5 mg/kg/h, or normal saline (placebo). Postoperatively, lidocaine groups used PCIA devices delivering lidocaine at 0.3–1.5 mg/kg/h for 72 hours; the placebo group received saline. The primary outcome was the incidence of moderate-to-severe pain during activity 24 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included pain during movement and at rest over three days, quality of recovery, bowel function recovery time, postoperative morphine use, and adverse events related to opioids and local anesthetics. Plasma lidocaine levels were measured post-surgery and at 24 hours.Results The lidocaine 1.5 group had a significantly lower incidence of moderate-to-severe postoperative pain during movement compared to the control group at 24 hours (38.2% vs. 65.5%, Bonferroni corrected P = 0.004). No significant differences were observed in the lidocaine 1.0 or 0.5 groups. Other outcomes, including postoperative quality of recovery, morphine consumption, bowel function recovery time, and adverse reactions to opioids, were similar across groups (all P > 0.05). Only one instance of plasma lidocaine concentration exceeding 4.0 µg/ml was observed, with no serious adverse events.Conclusions For elderly patients, a 1.5 mg/kg/h lidocaine infusion may be safer and more effective, serving as a cornerstone for future research.Trial registration: Registered 25 May 2022—Retrospectively registered, https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?term=NCT05412576
Outcome of Percutaneous Modified Catheterization Technique for Treatment of Type 2 and 3b Hepatic Echinococcal Cysts
Authors: Karaagac Seda Sogukpinar , Durmaz Hasanali 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy and success of the percutaneous modified catheterisation technique (MoCaT) in the treatment of type 2 and 3b liver hydatid cysts. A total of 21 patients (13 female, 8 male) aged 23 to 78 years (median: 35) with 25 cysts were included. All cysts were catheterised (12-16 F) under imaging guidance. Daughter vesicles and membranes were destroyed by manipulation of catheter and wire. Repeated injection and reaspiration with small volumes (5-10 ml) of hypertonic or isotonic saline. Daughter vesicles, endocysts and non-drainable material were aspirated. 17 of 25 hydatid cysts (68%) were associated with the biliary system, 8 hydatid cysts were not. The procedure was terminated by withdrawal of the catheter after development of cyst collapse, aspiration of all material. The median duration of catheterisation was 60 days (min:15, max:120) in the case of cystobiliary fistula and 5 days (min:4, max:10) without fistula (p<0.001). All patients were treated with 96% technical success (24 cysts). While volume reduction was 100% in 18 cysts, the median volume reduction in 7 cysts was 90% (min: 25%, max: 98%). Patients were followed up for a median of 18 months after treatment (min: 6, max: 42), with no recurrence in 96% of patients. Treatment of hepatic cystic echinococcosis type 2 and 3b with the MoCAT technique is an effective and safe treatment when performed under appropriate technical conditions. It has been shown to be helpful compared with surgical treatment in reducing hospitalisation and preventing complications.
Saltgrass genomes reveal unique features of a dioecious, perennial, halophytic grass
Authors: Poland Jesse , Nawaz Kashif , Orduna Izamar Olivas , Koo Dalhoe , Molina-Freaner Francisco , Bell Hester , Miculan Mara , Llaca Victor , Harrington Judith , Eppley Sarah 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

For agriculture, the climate crisis will center on the key resource of fresh water. Understanding of halophytic adaptations for productivity without fresh water will open possibilities for crop production through neodomestication. Saltgrass (Distichlis spp.) is a unique genus of dioecious halophytic C4 grasses found in the PACMAD clade. They grow in tidal plains and saltmarshes that often exceed seawater salinity making them among the most tolerant grasses to salinity. Here we provide an in-depth study of the genomic structure of Distichlis which gives insight into its unique biology including dioecy and halophytic growth. We generated high-quality telomere-to-telomere phased genome assemblies of four genets of saltgrass that range in size from 569 Mb to 609 Mb. We show that saltgrass is an allotetraploid with two highly syntenic but degenerate subgenomes. Projecting full-length gene sequencing and deep RNA sequencing data onto these assemblies supported 58,590 to 61,079 high-confidence genes and uncovered massive gene loss between the two subgenomes, with each subgenome losing more than 40% of the orthologous genes. Comparing genets, we discovered a novel chromosome fusion between chromosomes from different subgenomes that differentiates two species (D. spicata, 2n=40 and D. stricta, 2n=38), opening investigation into the role of genomic rearrangements in adaptation and speciation. We also report a B chromosome of 7 Mb in size in two of the genets, showing consistent features with sequenced B chromosomes in other species. Using k-mer analyses of sex-typed populations, we identified an 8 Mb sex determining region in female genets, confirming that Distichlis has a ZW type sex determination, and 58 genes that are associated with sex expression. Population genetics of 364 saltgrass genets from 35 diverse populations provide insight into differentiation corresponding to geographical distribution, and clear separation of D. stricta as a distinct species. These genomic resources establish a foundation for neodomestication of saltgrass for agroecosystems in saline environments and advance our understanding of genetic structure in dioecious, halophytic grasses.
Hydroclimatic variability and trends suggest improvements in water resource management in the cascade reservoirs of the Tocantins River
Authors: Silva Idelina Gomes da , Júnior José Luiz Cabral da Silva , Dunck Bárbara 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Research on hydroclimatic variations explains the relationships between water masses and global climate factors. Climate change causes changes in river flow regimes and impacts ecosystems, the economy, and society. In this study, we characterized the hydroclimatology of the seven reservoirs of the Tocantins River, along 1,500 km of river and during more than 12 years of sampling, where we analyzed climatic variables such as precipitation, global solar radiation, net evaporation, and air temperature, in addition to hydrological variables such as discharge and net evaporation of the reservoirs. We identified that the discharge of the reservoirs recovered more slowly after the dry period and that these discharges decreased at a rate of 575 m3/s between 1995 and 2023, followed by a negative and significant downward trend. As with discharge, precipitation showed a downward trend. The water deficit caused by prolonged droughts between 2015 and 2017 resulted in lower flows and higher air temperatures. In addition to climatic factors, the socioeconomics of the reservoir areas demand high water withdrawals, associated with population growth and agricultural production. We conclude that the reservoirs have a hydroclimatic gradient with latitudinal variations. These gradients are mainly due to differences in precipitation and flows, but are highly dependent on temperature conditions, solar radiation, evaporation, and water withdrawal. These factors are important and should be discussed in order to mitigate the ecological and socioeconomic impacts on the Tocantins River basin.
Application of hydrological models to streamflow estimation at ungauged transboundary Himalayan River basin, Nepal
Authors: Budhathoki Bhumi Raj , Adhikari Tirtha Raj , Shrestha Suraj , Awasthi Ram Prasad , Dawadi Binod , Gao Hongkai , Dhital Yam Prasad 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT
Continuous hydrological records at the desired site with spatial and temporal coverage are essential to water resources management and flood prevention. Hydrological gauging stations and observations are limited at transboundary Himalayan River basins in developing countries. This study is carried out to estimate discharge at ungauged sites from donor catchments based on calibrated discharge. In the Tamakoshi River basin, Spatial Process in HYdrology (SPHY), Hydrologiska Byråns Vattenbalansavdelning (HBV)-light, and Hydrologic Engineering Centre Hydrologic Modelling System (HEC HMS) models were used for hydrological simulation. The ungauged discharge estimated at Benighat is based on daily, monthly, and annual bases from upstream gauged stations. Statistical indices were obtained as NSE &gt; 0.62, R2 &gt; 0.77, and PBias &lt;26% in the simulation of these models. The low flow prediction is more reliable than the high flow prediction. The deviation in predicted flow mostly appeared in high flow periods. All the hydrological models simulated ungauged streamflow were similar in the flow pattern, and the estimated discharge at the ungauged receiver site was greater than at the donor site. Comparative simulations are better alternatives to estimate ungauged discharge than individual simulations. This research will support future reference to generate streamflow data at ungauged sites and can help fill the data recording gap at similar mountain river basins.
γCyclodextrin-assisted Aqueous Extract of Cinnamon for Cancer and Stress Management
Authors: Shi Yang , He Huifu , Zhang Huayue , Yuan Tian , Zhang Zhenya , DeSilva Ranil , Ishida Yoshiyuki , Terao Keiji , Kaul Sunil C. , Wadhwa Renu 
Published: August 2024

Aim:
Our goal was to investigate the use of Cyclodextrin in creating an aqueous extract
of Cinnamon with a high content of its bioactive ingredients, validated by cell-based assays.

Background:
Due to their safety and cost-effectiveness, natural compounds have garnered attention
for cancer therapy, which often faces challenges related to drug toxicity and resistance. Cinnamon
(Cinnamomum verum; also known as Ceylon Cinnamon) is a commonly used spice with a history
in folk medicine for treating various ailments. However, its active ingredients suffer from
poor solubility, stability, and bioavailability, which limits its use and benefits.

Objective:
We prepared γCyclodextrin (γCD)-assisted aqueous extract of Cinnamon (CD-CIN)
and compared its activity with the DMSO extract (DM-CIN).

Methods:
The cells were exposed to CD-CIN and DM-CIN extracts under normal and stressed
(oxidative, metal, and hypoxic) conditions and then analyzed for stress and cancerous phenotypes
using various molecular assays.

Results:
We found that CD-CIN possesses considerable anticancer activity that involves the activation
of tumor suppressor proteins and DNA damage response. Low, non-toxic concentrations of
DM-CIN and CD-CIN caused comparable inhibition of migration and invasion capability of cells,
supported by molecular marker analyses. Furthermore, protection against oxidative, metal, and hypoxia
stress, as well as induction of differentiation, was recorded in both DM-CIN and CD-CIN
treated cells, as compared to the control.

Conclusion:
We report CD-CIN as a new economic and easy Cinnamon-derived resource that possesses
considerable anticancer and antistress activities and hence warrants further chemical, in vitro,
and in vivo studies.
The Effect of Adding Silica Nanoparticles on the Compressive Strength and the Dimensional Accuracy of Type IV Dental Stone
Authors: Radesh Parsa , Rezaei Yashar , Negahdari Ramin , Haji Jafarabadi Sara , Aynaz Samadnezhad , Mahsa Fahimi , Maleki Dizaj Solmaz 
Published: August 2024

Background
Considering the need for high compressive strength and dimensional accuracy in dental casts, these properties were investigated in this study by adding silica nanoparticles to dental type IV stone (plaster).

Materials and Methods
In this in vitro study, silica nanoparticles with percentages of 0.5, 1, and 2% were added to the plaster powder. Dental plaster without silica nanoparticles was used as a control group. The prepared samples were examined in terms of compressive strength properties and dimensional accuracy (dimensional changes). A universal testing machine was used to check the compressive strength, and a stereomicroscope was used to check the dimensional accuracy.

Results
The addition of silica nanoparticles to the plaster increases the dimensional accuracy, which requires at least 1% silica nanoparticles for this increase (P<0.05). Adding the silica nanoparticles had no significant effect on the compressive strength compared to the control group (P>0.05).

Conclusion
The addition of silica nanoparticles to dental plaster Type IV at low concentrations can be considered in dentistry to increase dimensional accuracy without negative effects on compressive strength.
Molecular Phylogenetic Analysis of Vallisneria Spiralis Linnaeus in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Waykar Ravindra , Kumarapillai Srinivasakumar , Kulkarni Yogesh A. 
Published: August 2024

Background
The plant Vallisneria spiralis Linnaeus, also referred to as water celery or tape grass, is classified as a monocotyledonous plant within the Hydrocharitaceae family. The genus Vallisneria has a wide geographical range, encompassing temperate, tropical, and subtropical areas, such as Australia, Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America. Except for a limited range of characteristics, there is a lack of consistent physical traits that can function as precise taxonomic indicators for defining species borders within the genus. Hence, Vallisneria samples obtained from Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, India, were subjected to molecular phylogenetic analysis. Vallisneria spiralis L. has been documented in many regions worldwide; however, its existence in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India, has not been verified by molecular identification.

Aim
This study aimed to identify the Vallisneria species found in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India, through molecular phylogenetic analysis.

Objective
The objective of the molecular identification of Vallisneria species was to distinguish between the different species of Vallisneria found in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India. Genetic differences between the Vallisneria species were analyzed using molecular markers.

Methods
The specimens were obtained from Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India, and subsequently verified and identified using genetic techniques. The maximum likelihood technique was employed as an optimality criterion to conduct the phylogenetic studies.

Results
The resulting tree had grouping patterns comparable to the preceding phylogenetic tree generated using the Maximum Likelihood (ML) technique. The consistent clustering observed in this study strengthened the reliability and strength of the results of Vallisneria spiralis L. from Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India. The placement of Vallisneria spiralis L. from Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India, inside the predicted clade, was confirmed through a comparison with published phylogenetic research on the Vallisneria genus.

Conclusion
The identification of Vallisneria spiralis within the analyzed dataset was supported by grouping the original sequences in the resulting tree. The verification of the existence of Vallisneria spiralis L. in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India, is significant in comprehending the geographical range and biological variety of this species within the Indian context.