bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Viscosity Modeling of Solvent-Water-Heavy Oil/Bitumen Systems at High Pressures and Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Hu Bingge , Yang Daoyong 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
This work presents a new framework for quantifying the viscosity of a solvent-water-heavy oil/bitumen system as a function of thermal energy, solvent dissolution, and water concentration, respectively. By collecting experimental measurements in a pressure range of 0.9 to 5.0 MPa and a temperature range of 298.2 to 463.3 K, the Peng-Robinson equation of state (PR EOS) together with modified alpha functions respectively for hydrocarbons and water as well as binary interaction parameters (BIPs) has been integrated to quantify the aqueous/liquid/vapor (ALV) and LV phase equilibria. By treating heavy oil/bitumen as either a single pseudocomponent (PC) or multiple PCs, such a framework, along with the volume translation (VT) strategy, effective density, and six mixing rules, successfully reproduces the experimentally measured viscosity from 0.7-566.0 mPa•s with an accuracy of 41.1%, 10.2%, 26.3%, 36.4%, 47.2%, and 47.3% (1 PC) and 30.2%, 9.1%, 19.3%, 35.5%, 40.0%, and 30.1% (4 PCs), respectively. Adding water to a solvent-heavy oil/bitumen mixture can either increase or decrease its viscosity, mainly depending on thermal energy and solvent dissolution. Water concentration in feed plays a crucial role on the mixture viscosity at LV equilibria other than ALV equilibria. Heavier solvents are found to have a superior capacity for diluting heavy oil/bitumen at the same solvent concentration, and water has the same ability for reducing mixture viscosity when it is in liquid phase. At a higher temperature, water as a vapour shows its better ability in diluting heavy oil/bitumen than some solvents (e.g., CO2 and C3H8). Such a newly proposed framework makes it possible to not only dynamically and accurately predict the viscosity for the aforementioned mixtures under various conditions, but also seamlessly integrate it with any reservoir simulators for accurately evaluate and optimize the performance of a hybrid solvent-steam process in a given heavy oil reservoir.
Protective role of polyethylene glycol towards the damaging effects of cadmium
Authors: Amist Nimisha , Khare Shubhra , Azim Zeba , Singh Narsingh Bahadur 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the role of drought-induced changes on effects of cadmium (Cd) in plants. Cd is most hazardous and important environmental pollutant. Water deficit is most common environmental stress encountered by plants and affects most of the plant functions. The present study assessed the effect of Cd and water deficit on Capsicum frutescens seedlings in single and combined treatments. The seedlings of Capsicum were grown in hydroponic solution and treated with Cd. The seedlings were subjected to water deficit with help of polyethylene glycol (PEG). The other set of seedlings was treated with combined Cd + PEG. In the absence of PEG maximum Cd accumulation were observed. The root and shoot growth of the seedlings were affected under all treatments with maximum inhibition in Cd. Pigment, protein and sugar contents and nitrate reductase activity decreased significantly in all treatments while proline content increased. Induction of oxidative damage occurred through the formation of free radicals which caused alteration in electrolyte leakage, lipid peroxidation and activities of antioxidant enzymes viz. superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, guaiacol peroxidase and non enzymatic non-protein thiol content and ascorbic acid in the stressed seedlings. Water deficit buttressed the toxic effect of Cd on chilli seedlings.
The geologic history of marine dissolved organic carbon
from iron oxides
Authors: Galili Nir , Bernasconi Stefano , Nissan Alon , Alcolombri Uria , Aquila Giorgia , Bella Marcella Di , Blattmann Thomas , Haghipour Negar , Italiano Francesco , Jaggi Madalina , Kaplan-Ashiri Ifat , Lechte Maxwell , Porter Susannah , Rudmin Maxim , Spencer Robert , Wohlwend Stephan , Hemingway Jordon 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) is the largest reduced carbon reservoir in modern oceans¹,². Its dynamics regulate marine communities and atmospheric CO₂ levels³,⁴, whereas ¹³C compositions track ecosystem structure and autotrophic metabolism⁵. However, the geologic history of marine DOC remains entirely unconstrained⁶,⁷, hindering our ability to mechanistically reconstruct coupled ecological and biogeochemical evolution.
To address this, we developed the first direct proxy for past DOC signatures using co-precipitated organic carbon in iron ooids, and we applied this to 26 marine iron ooid-containing formations deposited over the past 1650 million years.
Predicted DOC concentrations were near modern levels in the Paleoproterozoic then decreased by 90-99% in the Neoproterozoic before sharply rising in the Cambrian. We interpret these dynamics to reflect three distinct states: (i) small, single-celled organisms combined with severely hypoxic deep oceans; (ii) larger, more complex organisms and little change in oxygenation; (iii) continued organism growth and a transition to fully oxygenated oceans⁸,⁹.
Furthermore, modern DOC is significantly ¹³C-enriched relative to the Proterozoic, likely due to changing autotrophic fractionation driven by biological innovation; together with isotopically invariant carbon inputs to Earth's surface¹⁰, this implies increasing relative organic carbon burial through time. Our results reveal new connections between the carbon cycle, ocean oxygenation, and the evolution of complex life.
Real time dynamic ultrasound guided endotracheal intubation: A future foreseen
Authors: Syal Kartik , Chandel Ankita , Kanwar Manjit Singh 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
The dynamic use of ultrasound for tracheal intubation is yet to be explored. The study reports the successful use of real time sonography for tracheal intubation in a cohort of 30 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy under general anaesthesia.
Aim
To assess the feasibility of ultrasound guided intubation (UGTI) and to define the methodology to be deployed for performing ultrasound guided intubation (UGTI).
Methods
In this prospective study we included a cohort of 30 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy under general anaesthesia. We used the real time ultrasound image to determine the hockey stick angulation of tube, corresponding to the angle seen on ultrasound between oral and laryngotracheal axis in slight head extension in supine position and then dynamic ultrasound guidance was used to advance the endotracheal tube through glottis.
Results
We were able to perform endotracheal intubation successfully in 76.6% patients with an average intubation time of 94.69 ± 24.7 seconds.
Conclusion
This study defines the probable methodology, to be used while performing ultrasound guided intubation. Also, UGTI can prove to be a minimally invasive real time infallible and fool proof technique for endotracheal intubation over traditional laryngoscopy.
EnSCAN: ENsemble Scoring for prioritizing CAusative variaNts across multi-platform GWAS for Late-Onset Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: ERDOĞAN Onur , İYİGÜN Cem , SON Yeşim AYDIN 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Late-Onset Alzheimer Disease (LOAD) is a progressive and complex neurodegenerative disorder in the aging population. LOAD is characterized by cognitive decline, such as deterioration of memory, loss of intellectual abilities, and other cognitive domains depending on traumatic brain injuries. Alzheimer's Disease (AD) presents a complex genetic landscape that remains elusive, which restrains the early and differential diagnosis of LOAD. While Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) enable the examination of statistical interactions among individual variants within specific loci, traditional univariate analysis may overlook intricate relationships between these genetic elements. Machine learning (ML) algorithms, on the other hand, prove invaluable in unraveling concealed, novel, and significant patterns by considering nonlinear interactions among variants. This approach enhances our comprehension of the genetic predisposition underlying complex genetic disorders. When working on different platforms, majority voting can not be applied because the attributes differ. Hence, a new post-ML ensemble approach is developed to select significant SNVs over multi-genotyping platforms. We proposed the EnSCAN framework using a new algorithm to ensemble selected variants even from different platforms to prioritize candidate causative loci, which consequently helps improve ML results by combining the prior information captured from each multi-model of each dataset. The proposed ensemble algorithm utilizes chromosomal locations of SNVs by mapping to cytogenetic bands, along with the proximities between pairs and multi-model via Random Forest validations to prioritize SNVs and candidate causative genes for Alzheimer Disease. The scoring method is scalable and can be applied to any multi-platform genotyping study. We present how the proposed EnSCAN scoring algorithm prioritizes the candidate causative variants related to LOAD among three GWAS datasets.
Machine learning predicts lifespan and underlying causes of death in aging C. elegans
Authors: Ezcurra Marina , Kern Carina , Manescu Petru , Cuffaro Matt , Au Catherine , Zhang Aihan , Wang Hongyuan , Gilliat Ann , Gems David 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Senescence (aging) leads to senescent pathology that causes death, and genes control aging by determining such pathology. Here we investigate how senescent pathology mediates the effect of genotype on lifespan in C. elegans by means of a data-driven approach, using machine learning (ML). To achieve this we gathered extensive data on how diverse determinants of lifespan (sex, nutrition, genotype) affect patterns of age-related pathology. Our findings show that different life-extending treatments result in distinct patterns of suppression of senescent pathology. By analysing the differential effects on pathology and lifespan, our ML models were able to predict >70% of lifespan variation. Extent of pathology in the pharynx and intestine were the most important predictors of lifespan, arguing that elderly C. elegans die in part due to late-life disease in these organs. Notably, the mid-life pathogenetic burst characteristic of hermaphrodite senescence is absent from males.
Influence of Input Motion Uncertainty in Developing Slope-Specific Seismic Fragility Curves Based on Nonlinear Finite Element Simulations
Authors: Cho Youngkyu , Kim Byungmin 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In the seismic fragility assessment for geotechnical structures, the selection of input motion set for nonlinear dynamic finite element (FE) analyses has solely been based on the methods used in an incremental dynamic analysis (IDA), despite methods adopted in structural engineering for cloud analysis (CA), and multiple stripe analysis (MSA). This study investigates uncertainties in the seismic fragility curve of slopes arising from input motion sets used in nonlinear dynamic FE analysis to develop a probabilistic seismic demand model (PSDM). We consider a FE slope model and four sets of input motions based on CA (Set 1: 632 unscaled ground motion records), IDA (Set 2: random sampling with four sample sizes of 7, 14, 28, and 50 from Set 1, scaled to five PGA values, iterated 20 times), and MSA [Sets 3 and 4: different suites of ground motion records at five PGA levels spaced equally on linear and logarithmic scale, respectively, from Set 1, considering as many records as possible (maximum sample size) and 20 iterations of random sampling for three sample sizes of 3, 6, and 9 out of the maximum sample size]. Comparisons of the seismic fragility curves from Sets 2, 3, and 4 relative to the curves from Set 1 reveal that Set 4 (with a sample size of 9, involving 45 analyses) is more computationally efficient than Set 2 (with a sample size of 50, totaling 250 analyses) and would yield the curve stochastically closer to the one from Set 1. It is worthwhile to consider the input motion set based on the MSA with PGA levels evenly distributed on a logarithmic scale than the IDA-based set when compiling large numbers of ground motion records is limited.
Thermodynamic studies of complexes in Cu(II)/Uridine- 5’-diphosphoglucuronic acid system
Authors: Stachowiak Klaudia , Zabiszak Michal , Grajewski Jakub , Teubert Anna , Bajek Anna , Jastrzab Renata 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Binary system of uridine-5'-diphosphoglucuronic acid with copper(II) ions have been studied. Potentiometric studies in aqueous solutions using computer data analysis were carried out. The pH of dominance, the overall stability constants (logβ) and the equilibrium constants of the formation reaction (logKe) were determined for each complex compound formed in the studied system. Spectroscopic studies were carried out to determine the mode of coordination in the compounds studied. Biological analysis of the compounds obtained showed an increase in the biological activity of the complexes tested against the free ligand.
One-Pot Synthesized Mixed-Dimensional Graphene for Photodetectors in Near-Infrared Image Sensors and Logic Circuits
Authors: Wang Gang , Zhang Shan , Wu Huijuan , Wang Bingkun , Zhang Jinqiu , Lian Shanshui , Zhang Guanglin , Yang Siwei , Ding Guqiao , Tang Shiwei , Zheng Li , Ye Caichao 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The advancement of heterostructures in two-dimensional (2D) materials plays a pivotal role in enhancing their optoelectronic capabilities. Nevertheless, existing heterostructures encounter limitations concerning light absorption efficiency and band alignment, impeding the generation and transportation of photo-generated charge carriers. To overcome these challenges, we have pioneered the development of a self-powered photodetector operating in the near-infrared (NIR) spectra. This innovative photodetector is built upon nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots (N-GQDs), three-dimensional (3D) graphene, and germanium (Ge) Schottky junctions. By leveraging the remarkable light absorption capabilities of N-GQDs and 3D-graphene, combined with precisely aligned heterostructure band alignment, as-fabricated device manifests a robust built-in electric field. Consequently, it facilitates efficient generation and separation of photo-generated charge carriers, thereby significantly amplifying overall optoelectronic performance. The as-fabricated photodetectors exhibit exceptional responsivity (2.3 × 103 A/W) and specific detectivity (6.2 × 1014 Jones) when illuminated at 2200 nm. Extensive studies validate the outstanding reproducibility, long-term stability, and microsecond-level rise/fall times of the proposed photodetectors. Particularly noteworthy is their remarkable image sensing capability, enabling the capture of high-resolution images in the NIR range. Furthermore, we have successfully demonstrated the integration of as-fabricated photodetector into optically controlled digital logic circuits. This groundbreaking research paves the way for designing and fabricating high-performance 3D heterostructures, opening up exciting possibilities for diverse optoelectronic applications.
Assessing the link between skin Aquaporins and morphological attributes in sheep under simulated heat stress conditions: a comparative breed-based investigation
Authors: Bahadi Majdi A. , Samara Emad M. , Khan Muhammed A. , Afzal Muhammed , Al-Badwi Mohammed A. , Abdoun Khalid A. , Alghamdi Salem S. , Al-Haidary Ahmed A. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

A comprehensive understanding of the functions of Aquaporins (AQPs) is indispensable for elucidating physiological adjustments to varied habitats and addressing water balance complexities amid environmental fluctuations. This experiment endeavors to investigate the relationship between cutaneous AQPs and morphological traits in two sheep breeds with differing hair textures, the Naimi and Najdi, under simulated heat stress conditions. Ten male lambs from each breed were housed individually in controlled environments and subjected to cyclic heat stress mimicking summer conditions for six weeks. Sweating rates (SR) were measured biweekly, and skin and coat samples were collected for analysis in the final week. The mRNA expression levels of Aquaporin 1 (AQP1), Aquaporin 3 (AQP3), and Aquaporin 5 (AQP5) in skin tissue were assessed. Results showed a (P < 0.05) increase in AQPs gene expression following thermal exposure in both breeds, accompanied by elevated SR. The Naimi breed exhibited (P < 0.05) higher AQP1 expression levels, correlating with differences in skin depth, coat thickness, and hair density compared to the Najdi breed, which showed (P < 0.05) heightened AQP5 expression, consistent with its thicker hair diameter. Both breeds displayed similar upregulation of AQP3, suggesting its equivalent role in facilitating perspiration during heat stress. In conclusion, the involvement of both skin AQPs and sweating response emphasizes the intricate interplay between their physical attributes and genetic predispositions in coping with heat stress, indicating a multifaceted process of thermoregulation in sheep. This research highlights the importance of understanding AQPs functions in adapting to environmental challenges and maintaining water balance in diverse habitats.
Applying King's Theory of Goal Attainment combined with FMEA-PDCA quality management tool in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus health education: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lin Canying , Lin Huayong , Xu Yaoyao , Guan Qingzhen , Su Bilan , Ge Li 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a prevalent obstetric complication that impacts both maternal and neonatal health by increasing the risk of adverse outcomes such as preterm birth and macrosomia. Traditional health education methods for GDM lack in clinical efficacy due to the absence of timely evaluation and personalized feedback, a gap attributed to the insufficient integration of nursing theories and quality management tools. This study aims to explore a novel approach for clinical health education in GDM patients by evaluating the efficacy of combining King’s Theory of Goal Attainment and the Failure Modes and Effects Analysis with the Plan-Do-Check-Act (FMEA-PDCA) quality management tool.
Methods
The study was conducted among pregnant women attending tertiary hospitals in Fujian Province from March 1, 2022, to May 31, 2023. Eligible participants were randomly divided into two groups (59 per group), via a computer-generated randomization method, to receive either an innovative health education integrating King’s Theory and FMEA-PDCA or conventional education, respectively. We measured and evaluated the changes in blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), anxiety levels, quality of life, and pregnancy outcomes pre- and post-intervention.
Results
Following the intervention, the experimental group showed significantly lower fasting blood glucose, improved anxiety levels and quality of life (P<0.001), and a reduced rate of cesarean sections compared to the control group (P = 0.037). No significant differences were found in HbA1c levels (P = 0.671) and several pregnancy-related complications across both groups (P>0.05).
Conclusion
The integration of King’s Theory with the FMEA-PDCA tool in health education significantly enhances the educational quality and clinical outcomes for GDM patients, suggesting a promising strategy for clinical practice.
Clinical trial registration:
http://www.chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2400083435).
The relationship between micronutrients and cognitive ability in an elderly population with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Akhgarjand Camellia , Hashemi Rezvan , Amini Maryam , Rasekhi Hamid , Farazandeh Dorreh , Etesam Farnaz , Rasooli Aziz , Houjaghani Hirad , Faezi Sholeh , Vahabi Zahra 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are significant neurodegenerative disorders with increasing prevalence worldwide. Lifestyle and dietary factors, including micronutrients, have been suggested as modifiable risk factors for disease development. This study aims to investigate the association between micronutrients and cognitive ability in these diseases.
Methods: A cross-sectional, randomized controlled study was conducted, involving 105 participants with MCI and AD. Dietary assessments were performed using a validated food frequency questionnaire, and micronutrient intake was calculated based on nutrient content. Disease severity was evaluated using the Functional Assessment Staging Tool (FAST). Statistical analyses, including correlation coefficients and multiple regression models, were employed to examine the association between micronutrients and disease progression.
Results: The results revealed significant correlations between disease severity and several micronutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids (B = -0.2, P = 0.01), carotenoids (B = -0.19, P = 0.02), antioxidants (B = -0.19, P = 0.02), selenium (B = -0.17, P = 0.03), alpha-carotene (B = -0.16, P = 0.04), beta-carotene (B = -0.17, P = 0.03), and lycopene (B = -0.16, P = 0.04). Multivariate regression analysis showed that higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids was associated with slower disease progression. Furthermore, the levels of these micronutrients declined in advanced stages of the disease.
Conclusion: Omega-3 fatty acids, carotenoids, and antioxidants may affect the cognitive ability and disease progression. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to establish causality and explore the therapeutic implications of these findings for the prevention and management of MCI and AD.
Feasibility of time-restricted eating during pregnancy and effect on glycemic control in people with increased risk of gestational diabetes – a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Moholdt Trine , Haganes Kamilla , Sujan Md Abu Jafar , Gellein Trine , Johansen Mariell , Salvesen Kjell , Hawley John , Skarstad Hanna 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Time-restricted eating (TRE) is a nutritional intervention that confines the daily time-window for energy intake. TRE reduces fasting glucose concentrations in non-pregnant individuals, but whether this eating protocol is feasible and effective for glycemic control in pregnancy is unknown. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate the feasibility and effect of a 5-week TRE intervention among pregnant individuals at risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), compared with a usual-care control group. Participants underwent 2-h oral glucose tolerance tests and estimation of body composition, before and after the intervention. Interstitial glucose levels were continuously measured, and adherence rates and ratings of hunger were recorded daily. Thirty of 32 participants completed the trial. Participants allocated to TRE reduced their daily eating window from 12.3 (SD 1.3) to 9.9 (SD 1.0) h, but TRE did not affect glycemic measures, blood pressure, or body composition, compared with the control group. TRE increased hunger levels in the evening, but not in the morning, and induced only small changes in dietary intake. A 5-week TRE intervention was feasible for pregnant individuals with increased risk of GDM but had no effect on cardiometabolic outcomes.