bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Liquefaction Vulnerability in Silt and Sand Predominance Soil Layers of Bori City
Authors: Kennedy Charles 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The geotechnical characteristics of the sub-soil layers in Bori, Nigeria were investigated to assess the liquefaction vulnerability of the predominantly silt and sandy soils. Standard penetration tests (SPT) were conducted, revealing significant depth-dependent variations in soil resistance. The upper 0–10 m of soil exhibited very low SPT-N values (3–10 blows), indicating loose, soft and highly compressible deposits. This makes the shallow layers highly susceptible to liquefaction during seismic events, as emphasized by prior studies. Deeper soil layers showed an increasing trend in SPT-N values (15–30 blows at 10–20 m, 30–36 blows beyond 20 m), suggesting denser and more compact conditions with reduced liquefaction potential. The natural moisture content also exhibited depth-dependent behavior, with higher values (20-29.3%) in the upper layers and decreasing values (7.9–15%) at greater depths. This moisture content variation, combined with the SPT-N trends, further highlights the liquefaction vulnerability of the shallow soil profile. Specific gravity analysis showed values typical of the Niger Delta region, ranging from 2.60–2.72, with lower values in the upper layers and gradual increases at depth. The comprehensive geotechnical dataset provided by this study fills an important gap in the knowledge of the Bori sub-soil conditions. The findings can inform the development of site-specific hazard mitigation plans, earthquake-resistant foundation design guidelines, and other geotechnical engineering applications to enhance resilience in the region, which faces risks from tremors and potential seismic events.
Genetic Insights into Coronary Artery Disease in Underrepresented Populations: Assessing Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization across Diverse Ancestry Populations
Authors: Fatumo Segun , Silva Sarah , Hughes David , Kintu Christopher , Tcheandjieu Catherine , Nitsch Dorothea 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Understanding the causal effect of modifiable risk factors on a disease is crucial for aiding and shaping public health policies, identifying targets of interventions and advancing our global understanding of health and diseases. With this however, the disproportionate representation of non-European ancestries in research has raised important questions regarding the transferability and reliability of genetic findings on a diverse global scale. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of conducting a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis in populations of diverse ancestries, focusing on both methodological challenges and biologically differences when data from European, East Asian, South Asian and African ancestry populations were compared against each other. Employing data generated from large-scale genome-wise association studies (GWAS), we chose to compare the causal effects of lipid traits, blood pressure, body-mass index, type-2 diabetes and kidney function on coronary artery disease. Due to an insufficient number of identified single-nucleotide polymorphisms in non-European data when strict alpha thresholds were employed, we were not able to conduct MR analyses across all ancestry populations until the threshold was relaxed. We found that allowing for a lenient inclusion threshold and extending the MR methodology to be more inclusive of non-European data resulted in an increase in weak instrument bias, resulting in imprecise estimates and a reduced ability to detect true causal effects. Notably, our results showed causal associations known to be inconsistent with established findings, specifically between lipid traits in South Asian populations compared to European ancestry populations. These findings reiterate the urgent need for independent large-scale GWAS in non-European populations, to improve the power and reliability of MR studies as well as to develop methods which take into account population-specific effects.
Designing a Fuzzy Sliding Mode Controller for 2-DOF Lower Limb Exoskeleton Rehabilitation Robot
Authors: Tkue Hafte , Berisha Kassahun , Teklay Fisseha 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

One promising approach to resolving mobility issues in people with lower limb disabilities is the incorporation of robotics into rehabilitation programs, especially lower limb exoskeletons. The complex mechanics resulting from the nonlinear and erratic dynamics of the lower limb provide difﬁculties for conventional controllers in providing stable and individualized support during rehabilitation exercises. A Fuzzy Sliding Mode Controller for a 2-DOF lower limb exoskeleton rehabilitation robot takes into account the complexity of the rehabilitation process for lower limbs by combining sliding mode control with the adaptable nature of fuzzy logic. By utilizing user-speciﬁc physiological feedback to help with real-time decision-making, the fuzzy logic component enables the exoskeleton to dynamically modify its control parameters. Analyses that compare the FSMC to a traditional sliding mode controller demonstrate how well it handles nonlinear dynamics and provides a more relevant and adaptive control approach.
The Rate of Switching from First-line to Second-line Antiretroviral Therapy Among People Living with HIV in Aden City, Yemen: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Al-Haidary Naif Mohammed , Radman Enas Abobakr 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Effective management of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is crucial in combating the global HIV pandemic. This study, the first of its kind in Yemen, investigates the rate and determinants of switching from first-line to second-line ART among people living with HIV (PLWH) in Aden City, Yemen.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from PLWH who started first-line ART at Al-Wahda Hospital from 2007 to May 2022. Patients in prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programs, those already on second-line ART at enrollment, and those with less than 3 months of follow-up were excluded. Cumulative incidence curves and multivariable proportional hazards models were used to identify factors associated with switching, considering death and loss to follow-up as competing risks. Analyses were carried out using IBM SPSS version 26.
Results
Out of 149 patients, 18 (12.1%) switched to second-line ART with a cumulative incidence rate of 1.8 per 100 person-years. Significant factors for switching included being older than 33 years (HR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.12–1.89), having WHO stage 3 disease (HR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.21–2.06), and being on a TDF-FTC-EFV-based first-line regimen (HR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.03–1.77).
Conclusions
The study highlights key factors associated with switching to second-line ART in Yemen, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and continuous patient monitoring to enhance treatment outcomes. These findings are consistent with regional data from other resource-limited settings.
Ameliorative Effect of Green synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles of Malvastrum coromandelianum Linn. on CCl 4 Induced Oxidative Stress in Sprague Dawley Rats Liver
Authors: Naseer Sana , Naseer Abeel , Fatima Mehreen , Iqbal Javed , Kanwal Sobia , Abbasi Banzeer Ahsan , Kazi Mohsin , Mahmoodi Mahboobeh , Mahmood Tariq 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Malvastrum coromandelianum is an important medicinal plant enriched with active secondary metabolites. Leaves of plant have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and hypoglycemic properties.
Results: This study is based on hepato-protective properties of zinc-oxide nanoparticles synthesized using Malvastrum coromandelianum (MCZNPs) against inflammation and toxicity caused by CCl4 in Sprague-Dawley rats. Nanoparticle’s formation was confirmed using UV visible spectroscopy by showing peak at 363nm. Shape (hexagonal) and size (23nm) was estimated using XRD and further confirmed by SEM (32.06 nm). MCZNPs possess antioxidant abilities, DPPH (44.3±0.6 µg/mL), superoxide scavenging activity (27.6±0.9 µg/mL), TAC (52.3±0.9 AAE mg/g) and TRP (47.5±0.9 GAE mg/g) values were comparable with standards. Initial treatment of female rats with MCZNPs revealed that MCZNPs were non-toxic. Anti-inflammatory potential was evaluated on forty two (1:1 male: female) rats divided into seven groups; I-control group (saline water-0.9%), II-treated with CCl4 1ml/kg bw, III-positive control group; CCl4 (1ml/kg bw)+silymarin (200mg/kg bw), IV and V-injected with 1ml/kg bw CCl4 and 150ml/kg bw and 300mg/kg bw of MCZNP, VI and VII-administered with 150ml/kg bw and 300mg/kg bw of MCZNP alone. Serum and antioxidant enzyme markers were found in normal range on co-administration of MCZNPs+CCl4. MCZNPs significantly lowered CCl4 induced elevations in serum markers and restored antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD, CAT, GSH) levels. However, gene expression analysis revealed that CCl4 elevated oxidative stress and upregulated inflammatory markers (P<0.05). Whereas, MCZNPs suppressed oxidative stress markers. Hepatocyte morphology was examined by histopathological investigation.
Conclusion: Nanoparticles synthesized using Malvastrum coromandelianum exhibited exceptional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential. Clinical trials of MCZNPs and investigation of underlying mechanisms would lead to the development of FDA approved drug.
Balancing energy efficiency and biomass yield through Computational Fluid Dynamics of a commercial scale bubble-column photobioreactor
Authors: Kubelka B. G. , Abreu P. C. , Pinto W. T. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Microalgae biomass derived fuel need to maximize production with minimal energy input to cultivation and harvesting operations. The mixing/circulation comprises an essential step in the expensive microalgae cultivation process. Additionally, prevents cell settlement and increases exposure to light and nutrients. Nevertheless, it is responsible for at least one-third of total cost to produce lipid from microalgae. Regulating air input is an effective way to save energy, but it can compromise production. Computational Fluid Dynamics was used to determine the percentage of dead-zones in 330 L photobioreactors (aspect ratio of 4.54) for production of the microalgae Nannochloropsis oceanica with different airflow. Three numerical cases were selected for growth experiments. The airflow rate of 0.0024 vvm allowed satisfactory production and low energy input. It is noteworthy that experiments with the highest Energy Return On Investment values were also observed in this airflow rate (0.0024 vvm). The complementary application of the tools (Energy Return On Investment and Computational Fluid Dynamics) have shown high potential to reach the economic viability of microalgae biofuel.
Dynamic Task Offloading Strategy for Multi-Agent Deep Reinforcement Learning Based on Lyapunov
Authors: ZheXing Yang , XiaoLan Xie , Qian Guo , ShuRu Tan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Aiming at the issue of communication overload and task backlog caused by the dynamic nature of the environment and the surge in the number of mobile devices in multi-user Mobile Edge Computing scenarios, a dynamic task offloading strategy based on Lyapunov-guided multi-agent deep reinforcement learning is proposed. This strategy aims to ensure long-term system stability while minimizing the average task processing latency and energy consumption. First, the dependency relationships among subtasks are modeled using a directed acyclic graph, and this is expressed as an optimization problem to minimize task offloading costs with long-term constraints. Then, using Lyapunov optimization theory, the long-term average problem is decoupled into deterministic problems for each time slot. Finally, the issue is further transformed into an optimal policy problem under a Markov Decision Process framework, and solved using the designed Lyapunov Multi-Agent Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (Ly-MADDPG) algorithm. The simulation experiment results indicate that compared to the alternative algorithms, our proposed method reduces the task offloading cost while ensuring queue stability.
Content of Biogenic Elements in Sheep Wool by the Regions of Slovakia
Authors: Janíček Martin , Massányi Martin , Kováčik Anton , Halo Marko , Tirpák Filip , Blaszcyk-Altman Martyna , Albrycht Marzena , Stawarz Robert , Massányi Peter , Halo Marko 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The quality of nutrition and environmental pollution are crucial chemical indicators influencing animal health, reflected in element concentrations in animal tissues and coats. This study investigates the concentrations of biogenic elements (calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, copper, and iron) in sheep wool from various regions of Slovakia to compare concentrations and identify possible correlations between individual elements. Samples were collected from six different regions, and concentrations of elements were measured using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in element levels among the examined regions. Calcium concentrations ranged from 729.2 to 4065 ppm, with the highest concentrations in the Kysuce region and the lowest in the Šariš region. Potassium concentrations ranged from 2315 to 3282 ppm, with the lowest values in the Zemplín region and the highest in the Liptov region. Magnesium, sodium, copper, and iron also exhibited varying concentrations across the regions. Correlation analysis identified significant associations between several elements. The findings suggest that regional environmental differences influence element concentrations in sheep wool, highlighting the importance of monitoring biogenic elements for assessing environmental pollution and animal health. Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms driving element accumulation in wool and its implications for animal welfare and environmental management.
Short-term Changes in Brain Networks and Cognition in Children with Frontal Lobe Lesions Treated Solely with Neurosurgical Procedures
Authors: Guan Xueyi , Hu Bohan , Zheng Wenjian , Zhai Huina , Han Xu , Hu Cuiling , Yan Zihan , Chen Ning , Li Xiang , Lu Zheng , Gong Jian 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective:
Intracranial lesions in children often have good prognoses, allowing long-term survival. Cognitive functions, crucial for life quality, need more attention. Previous research has focused on adults, with pediatric studies limited by varied lesions and complex treatments. This study aims to evaluate cognitive and brain network changes in children with frontal lobe lesions, which significantly impact cognitive function, using a before-and-after comparison.
Methods
The study enrolled 20 children with frontal lesions who underwent fMRI and cognitive tests before and after surgery, with only surgical treatment initially. Brain network changes were evaluated using functional metrics, and cognitive shifts were measured through test scores. Correlations were analyzed to explore brain mechanisms behind cognitive changes. Additionally, 20 healthy children underwent the same assessments for baseline data.
Results
Preliminary evidence of cognitive recovery, notably in social cognition, was observed about three months post-surgery, potentially linked to increased functional connectivity between the right lingual gyrus and right middle temporal gyrus.
Conclusion
Children with frontal lobe lesions show short-term cognitive recovery and related brain network changes post-surgery, suggesting a more aggressive surgical approach. This study offers unique insights into cognitive neuroscience and potential rehabilitation targets.
Adapting and pilot testing a tool to assess the accessibility of primary health facilities for people with disabilities in Luuka District, Uganda
Authors: Mactaggart Islay , Ssemata Andrew Sentoogo , Menya Abdmagidu , Smythe Tracey , Rotenberg Sara , Marks Sarah , Mbazzi Femke Bannink , Kuper Hannah 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

People with disabilities frequently experience barriers in seeking healthcare that lead to poorer health outcomes compared to people without disabilities. To overcome this, it is important to assess the accessibility of primary health facilities – broadly defined to include a disability-inclusive service provision – so as to document present status and identify areas for improvement. We aimed to identify, adapt and pilot test an appropriate tool to assess the accessibility of primary health facilities in Luuka District, Uganda.
Methods
We conducted a rapid literature review to identify appropriate tools, selecting the Disability Awareness Checklist (DAC) on account of its relative brevity and development as a sensitization and action tool. We undertook three rounds of adaptation, working together with youth researchers (aged 18 – 35) with disabilities who then underwent 2 days of training as DAC facilitators. The adapted tool comprised 71 indicators across four domains and 12 sub-domains. We also developed a structured feedback form for facilitators to complete with healthcare workers. We calculated mean accessibility scores overall, per domain and per sub-domain, and categorised feedback form suggestions by type and presumed investment level. We pilot-tested the adapted tool in 5 primary health facilities in one sub-district of Luuka, nested within a pilot healthcare worker training on disability.
Results
The average overall facility accessibility score was 19.7% (range 12.3 – 28.8). Facility scores were highest in the universal design and accessibility domain (29.7%, 22.6 – 41.9), followed by reasonable accommodation (21.3%, 6.7 – 33.3). Average scores for capacity of facility staff (9.3%, 6.7 – 20.0), and linkages to other services were lower (5.0%, 0 – 25.0). Within the feedback forms, there were on average 21 suggestions (range 14 – 26) per facility. Most commonly, these were categorised as minor structural changes (20% of suggestions), with a third categorised as no (2%) or low (33%) cost, and the majority (40%) medium cost.
Conclusions
Overall accessibility scores were low, with many opportunities for low-cost improvement at the facility level. We did not identify any issues with the implementation of the tool, suggesting few further adaptations are required for its future use in this setting.
Assessment of Seismic Susceptibility in Crude Oil Producing Ogoni Community in Rivers State of Nigeria
Authors: Kennedy Charles 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The chances of earthquake occurrence in Ogoni, Rivers State of Nigeria was investigated via Resonant column and Bender element (RC/BE) tests on compacted soil obtained from various soil depths. From the tests, frequency, shear modulus, shear wave velocity, accelerometer output and damping ratio of the soil samples were determined at various confinement pressures. The test results revealed that confinement has effects on soil dynamic properties. Thus, the frequency (vibration) of soil increased with increasing confinement pressure, while the RC/BE tests at various confinements revealed high variations in shear modulus, shear wave velocity, accelerometer output and damping ratio. The shear modulus and shear wave-velocity generally increased as confinement pressure was increased, while damping ratio decreases as confinement pressure was increased. The variations in RC/BE test parameters showed that the Ogoni land of Rivers State, as an oil and gas bearing area, is susceptible to earthquake. Hence, continuous monitoring and assessment of oil exploration activities are recommended to ensure geological data are collected, especially when seismic activities occur in the areas, for prevention of factors that lead to earthquake occurrence.
Numerical Simulation of the Behaviour of RC Columns Strengthened Using Hybrid NSM Steel and GFRP Bars
Authors: Al-Thairy Haitham , Al-Shimarry Nibras Atiaa 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

RC columns in concrete buildings frequently require strengthening, either as a result of problems in the columns themselves, having to sustain more loads than those expected during the initial design or as a result of aging or accidental damage. In recent years, the use of fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) in strengthening existing RC columns has become more common, and the results are very promising. In this paper, a numerical study has been conducted on the behavior of eccentrically loaded RC columns strengthened with hybrid near surface mounted (NSM) steel and glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars. A numerical model is first proposed to simulate the behavior of hybrid NSM bars strengthened columns using the finite element program ABAQUS/Standard. The proposed model was validated against the experimental test published by the authors. Validation results have shown good agreement between the numerical and experimental outcomes in terms of load-displacement curves and failure modes. Further, a parametric study has been conducted to understand the effect of important parameters on the response of the hybrid NSM bars strengthened RC columns. Parametric study results have shown that the ultimate load of hybrid NSM bars strengthened RC columns increased up to 70% compared with that of columns strengthened with NSM steel bars only. Numerical results have also revealed that the ultimate load of the strengthened RC columns increased with increasing the number of NSM bars but decreased with increasing the slenderness ratio.
Traditional agroforestry systems in Timor-Leste can store large amounts of carbon in both soil and biomass
Authors: Piponiot Camille , Cogné Marguerite , Freycon Vincent , Thoumazeau Alexis , Gusmão Marçal , Peltier Régis 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Agroforestry has the potential to make agriculture more resilient while improving carbon sequestration by incorporating trees and other woody perennials into agricultural land and diversifying landscapes. Traditional agricultural systems in tropical areas often include trees, but their carbon sequestration potential is not always well described, hindering their inclusion in climate change mitigation strategies. In this study, we quantified carbon storage in both vegetation biomass and soil in five traditional agroforestry systems (AFS) in Timor-Leste, namely cropping systems with fallow, silvopastures, young agroforests, home gardens, and forest gardens. Our results show that these traditional AFS can store large amounts of carbon, with the average being 156 Mg C ha-1. The AFS with the highest carbon stocks (forest gardens) stored an average of 210 Mg C ha-1, close to the values of old-growth tropical forests. Biomass carbon was strongly dependent on the type of AFS (which differed in tree cover), while soil carbon was less variable between AFS but more dependent on site. We found no relationship between the amount of carbon stored in biomass and soil. Our results highlight the high diversity of traditional AFS in Timor-Leste and their high carbon sequestration capacity. These results could provide an important baseline for the inclusion of AFS in Timor-Leste’s climate change mitigation strategy, and could serve as a reference for future AFS studies in different agro-climates of Timor-Leste.