bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Possible alternative strategies to implement basophil activation testing in multicentric studies
Authors: Bourgoin Pénélope , Dupont Thomas , Agabriel Chantal , Carsin Ania , Verles Aurélie , Cabanski Maciej , Vitaliti Alessandra , Busnel Jean‐Marc 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe Basophil Activation Test (BAT) enables flow cytometry characterization of basophil reactivity against specific allergenic molecules. The focus now revolves around democratizing this tool, but, as blood sample stability could be challenging, after having developed a simplified approach, herein, we aimed to characterize two strategies for implementing BAT in multicentric studies: store and ship blood before or after sample processing. Fresh heparin‐ and EDTA‐anticoagulated whole blood samples followed both BAT workflows: “collect, store, process & analyze” or “collect, process, store & analyze”. Storage temperatures of 18–25 °C or 2–8 °C and preservation times from 0 to 7 days were considered. Interleukin‐3 was also evaluated. With the “collect, store, process & analyze” workflow, heparin‐anticoagulated blood and 18–25 °C storage were better than other conditions. While remaining possible, basophil activation exhibited a possible reactivity decay after 24 h. Under the conditions tested, interleukin‐3 had no role in enhancing basophil reactivity after storage. Conversely, the “collect, process, store & analyze” workflow demonstrated that either heparin‐ or EDTA‐anticoagulated blood can be processed and kept up to 7 days at 18–25 °C or 2–8 °C before being analyzed. Various strategies can be implemented to integrate BAT in multicentric studies. The “collect, store, process & analyze” workflow remains a simplified logistical approach, but depending on time required to ship from the clinical centers to the reference laboratories, it might not be applicable, or should be used with caution. The “collect, process, store & analyze” workflow may constitute a workflow improvement to provide significant flexibility without impact on basophil reactivity.
Establishing effective interpretation criteria in hair analysis to distinguish between passive and active cocaine exposure: Insights from authentic hair samples collected from professional individuals exposed to cocaine
Authors: Ramírez Fernández María del Mar , Wille Sarah M. R. , Meert Natalie , Eliaerts Joy , Samyn Nele 
Published: April 2024

AbstractInterpretation results of hair analysis, particularly for cocaine, can be challenging due to the need to differentiate between active use or passive contamination. Our study aimed to assess the impact of varying degrees of passive cocaine exposure hair analysis results and their interpretation. Hair samples (n = 25) were categorized based on the declared cocaine exposure of volunteers: (a) high, involving handling up to several kilograms of cocaine powder from dismantling illegal distribution sites; (b) medium, where staff dealt with cocaine blocks (up to kilograms); and (c) low, with staff in contact with up to grams of cocaine for laboratory analysis. Hair samples were decontaminated using dichloromethane, water, and methanol. The samples and final wash were analyzed for cocaine, benzoylecgonine, norcocaine, cocaethylene, m‐OH‐benzoylecgonine, and ecgonine methyl ester using a validated UPLC‐MS/MS method. Cocaine hair concentrations ranges were as follows (pg/mg): high (n = 53 segments) < LLOQ(32)‐7046; medium (n = 91) < LLOQ‐939; and low (n = 54) < LLOQ‐292. All hair samples had concentrations below the LLOQ for cocaethylene, ecgonine methyl ester, and m‐OH‐benzoylecgonine. Applying the SoHT cocaine cut‐off in combination with a hair/wash ratio criterion identified 97% of the samples as contaminated. This study advocates for a comprehensive approach in evaluating cocaine hair concentrations. This involves integrating the 500 pg/mg decision limit for cocaine with a criterion comparing wash and hair concentration. Additionally, confirming the presence of specific metabolites is crucial. This multifaceted method effectively distinguishes between environmental contamination and active cocaine usage. The research contributes significantly to refining cocaine exposure assessment in professional contexts.
First Application of Non‐Metallic A2B Type Silicon Corrole Complexes in Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Liu Zhen‐Wu , Yang Gang , Xu Shi‐Yin , Xie Wan‐Yue , Yao Yan‐Fang , Xiao Xin‐Yan , Si Li‐Ping , Liu Hai‐Yang 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIn this study, we have successfully synthesized two non‐metallic‐based silicon corrole complexes (F10C−Si, F10C−CN−Si) and used them as HER electrocatalysts for the first time. Electrochemical studies indicate the electrocatalytic HER may go via EE‐CEEC (E: electron transfer step, C: chemical step) pathway. Notably, it can be seen that the introduction of electron‐withdrawing cyano group on the meso‐phenyl of the corrole macrocycle may enhance the catalytic activity of silicon corrole complexes. In DMF with TsOH as the proton source, F10C−CN−Si exhibits a turnover frequency (TOF) of 331.48 s−1 and a high catalytic efficiency (C.E) of 1.29. Furthermore, the catalytic prowess of the silicon corrole complexes extends to neutral aqueous solution, with F10C−CN−Si achieving a TOF of 52.72 h−1 at an overpotential of 1188 mV. This study extends the application of non‐metallic‐based silicon corrole molecular catalysts in the electrocatalytic HER field.
Optimal design and analysis of a grid‐connected hybrid renewable energy system using HOMER Pro: A case study of Tumbatu Island, Zanzibar
Authors: Said Thani R. , Kichonge Baraka , Kivevele Thomas 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThis study addresses the pressing issue of quality electricity access in remote regions, with a specific focus on Tumbatu Island in Tanzania. Most studies on quality improvement concentrate on low‐voltage distribution lines and leave high‐voltage (HV) transmission lines behind. It is essential to address quality issues in HV lines due to their critical role in electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure. The objective of the study is to improve the voltage profile on the island's HV transmission line by identifying the optimal hybrid energy system comprising solar PV, wind turbine, and battery technologies. The study begins by presenting the total power demand and consumption on Tumbatu Island, which are important factors in designing an efficient energy system. The findings reveal a power demand of 7173 kW and a consumption of 28540 kWh/day, with an average scaled value of 1507.9 and 6000 kWh/day. To achieve the desired voltage profile improvement, the research incorporates HOMER Pro software for simulating and analyzing various hybrid system configurations. Essential input parameters, such as costs, resources, technology components, and load, are considered in the simulation process. The software generates a ranked list of options based on the system's net present cost (NPC). The simulation results demonstrate that the integration of solar PV, wind turbine, and HV lines provides a substantial improvement in the voltage profile, increasing it from 29.6 to 31.23 kV during peak demand periods. This solution proves to be the most economically viable, with the lowest NPC of $4,003,851 and a relatively short payback period of 3.79 years. In addition, a sensitivity analysis is performed to identify the most influential parameter in the system's performance. Wind speed is found to have the greatest impact, emphasizing its significance in the design and operation of the hybrid energy system. The implementation of this optimal hybrid renewable energy system on Tumbatu Island will not only improve the voltage profile and meet the island's energy needs but also shall contribute to global efforts in reducing pollution and the cost of electricity to the Tumbatu Island population. Moreover, it addresses the current and future demands for clean energy, underlining its importance in achieving sustainable and accessible electricity in sub‐Saharan Africa and beyond.
Study on the impact of low‐temperature stress on winter wheat based on multi‐model coupling
Authors: Chen Jiameng , Zhang Peiyan , Liu Junming , Deng Jingyuan , Su Wei , Wang Pengxin , Li Ying 
Published: April 2024

AbstractCrop growth models, such as the WOrld FOod STudies (WOFOST) model, mimic the mechanistic processes involved in crop development, growth, and yield production. The accuracy of simulation is decreased in unfavorable low‐temperature settings because these models do not accurately represent crop response processes in low‐temperature stress. Enhancing the WOFOST crop growth model's accuracy in simulating crops' responses to cold temperatures is the aim of this work. Given its vulnerability to low temperatures, the inquiry uses winter wheat in Henan Province as a focal point. It integrates the WHEATGROW wheat phenology model with the Frost model of Lethal Temperature 50 (FROSTOL) inside the framework of the crop growth model. This link aims to improve simulation accuracy and supplement the model's mechanisms, particularly when it comes to the impact of low temperatures on crop development. The study uses Long Short‐Term Memory networks to build a yield model that integrates remote sensing data with information from simulated crop models. Under low temperatures, the leaf area index, total above ground biomass, and total weight of storage organs of the model WWF—which combines FROSTOL and WHEATGROW with WOFOST—show a considerable decline. It was discovered that there is a greater improvement in simulation accuracy of the linked model WWF relative to the WOFOST model in frost years than in normal years, based on a comparison analysis between typical frost years and normal years. To be more precise, the improvement is 8.03% in frost years and 1.98% in regular years. When all is said and done, the coupled model advances our knowledge of how winter wheat is impacted by low temperatures.
Hepatoprotective efficacy of quinoa seed extract against CCl4‐ induced acute liver toxicity in rat model
Authors: Arshad Maria , Kousar Shabana , Din Ahmad , Afzaal Muhammad , Faisal Muhammad Naeem , Sharif Mian Kamran , Rasheed Hina , Saeed Farhan , Akram Noor , Ahmed Faiyaz , Khan Mahbubur Rahman 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe current research explored the possible protective effect of chenopodium quinoa extract against CCl4 acute liver toxicity in Sprague Dawley rats. Thirty rats were divided into five groups with six rats in each group. CCl4 (Carbon tetrachloride) was administered at a dose rate of 2 mL/kg b.w. intra‐peritoneally once a week for 3 weeks. The plant extract was given through oral gavage for a period of 21 days. Group I served as a normal group which was given with basal diet. Group II was referred to as a positive control group and received CCl4 2 mL/kg body weight (i.p.). Group III was the standard treatment group and received 2 mL/kg CCl4 (i.p.) and 16 mg/kg body weight (p.o.) silymarin. Group IV was the plant treatment group, which received 2 mL/kg CCl4 (i.p.) and 600 mg/kg body weight of quinoa seed extract (p.o.). Group V was the combined treatment group, which received 2 mL/kg CCl4 (i.p.) accompanied with a combination of silymarin (p.o.) 16 mg/kg body weight and quinoa seed extract (p.o.) 600 mg/kg body weight. The liver biomarkers were assessed along with histopathological analysis to observe the changes in the liver. The outcome suggested that the treatment, which was given with the combination of silymarin and quinoa seed extract, significantly enhanced the antioxidant levels, reduced the oxidative stress, and restored the liver function as evidenced by biochemical parameters histopathological studies. The hepatoprotective potential may be due to the antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties of quinoa seed extract.
NISAR S‐SAR Digital Beamforming Architecture and Implementation
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Mishra Suneela , Mishra Anish Kumar , Sharma Diksha 
Published: April 2024

AbstractISRO(Indian Space Research Organization) and JPL(Jet Propulsion Laboratory), NASA are jointly developing a state‐of‐the‐art L&S band SAR, planned to be launched through GSLV during 2023‐24. The conventional SAR systems has a limitation of providing higher spatial resolution as well as wider swath coverage simultaneously[6]. The NASA‐ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) is based on a novel SAR concept, which will be utilized to image wide swath as high resolution of stripmap SAR, also called SweepSAR[1]. NISAR uses Digital Beam Forming on receive along with SweepSAR concept to get the advantage of lesser transmit power, immunity to range ambiguities with narrower receive beams, improved SNR and noise equivalent sigma naught as compared to conventional SAR system and directly radiating arrays with digital beamforming[5].In this paper, digital beamforming (DBF)[2] technique being used in NISAR S‐SAR receive chain is presented. The paper focuses on the DBF architecture, methodology, mathematical equations, practical implementation challenges and strategies used for mitigation of such challenges in order to achieve desired performance. Subsequently, DBF Hardware implementation algorithm and improvement in S‐SAR performance as a result of DBF technique is discussed.
Performance Analysis of Electro‐Hydraulic Actuation System Using Multi‐Domain Physics‐Based Modeling
Authors: Kumar Kollipara Hari Krishna Pavan , Belusonti Venkata Kaushik , Moon Suk‐Min , Krishnasamy Venkateswaran , Aejaj Kadri 
Published: April 2024

AbstractMulti‐domain physics‐based modeling is a versatile technique in the discipline of numerical modeling to solve engineering problems and it is an essential tool for predicting and simulating the multi‐domain physics behavior of interacting complex engineering systems [1]. But most of the modern‐day engineering systems are quite complex and developing physics‐based models of these systems needs critical domain expertise from various fields of physics and engineering. The complex nature of these systems makes it challenging and time‐consuming to develop high‐fidelity physics‐based models. Hence the data‐driven or hybrid approaches are still being extensively used in many industries despite their limited usability and scalability, unlike the physics‐based models. Though the COTS tools like SIMSCAPE, DYMOLA, etc. are providing readily available foundational blocks for physics‐based modeling they are not always sufficient to represent the custom component designs that made up these complex systems. Hence this paper recommends the development of physics‐based component models that can be re‐used. These component models when developed like modular blocks can improve the re‐usability during system model development. This can reduce the dependency on the critical domain expertise of the engineers. While emphasizing the importance of physics‐based modeling techniques this paper presents how this approach can enable the fault injection into system models and help identification of reasons for faults like pressure oscillations on an Electro‐Hydraulic Actuation System.
Digital Threads – benefits, challenges, and best practices
Authors: Gery Eran 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe premise of Digital Engineering (DE) – a term coined by the US DoD, is to introduce efficiency and agility into engineering practices based on digital representations of complex systems under development. DE aims to foster early and virtual validations, virtual exploration of solutions and design robustness by automating current document centric engineering processes. As stated by the DoD, DE is expected to result in shortening delivery time, reduced cost of development driving increased quality and trust that the intended system will indeed satisfy the stakeholder needs. The core technological pillars of digital engineering are model based engineering, designation of authoritative sources of truth to avoid ambiguity and inconsistency and establishing technological platforms to facilitate collaboration, security, and IP protection across all stakeholders. “Digital Threads” is an information architecture that aims to establish digital continuity across product lifecycle activities, foster engineering integrity, effective change management, tradeoff analysis, and dissemination of operational data. Digital threads are an essential part of the DoD Digital Engineering strategy. There are technological challenges to implement digital threads, as it requires to establish a digital fabric across various modeling and engineering operational environments. As of today, this topic is still in its infancy and the industry is seeking solutions and standards for it.
Engineering Sustainable System of Systems: A Holistic Approach for a Brighter Future
Authors: Forlingieri Marco , Gschwind Andreas , Gery Eran 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThis article highlights the importance of System of Systems Engineering (SoSE) in achieving sustainability goals. System of Systems (SoS), as systems with significant and enduring environmental impact, play a critical role in overall sustainability efforts. The article first introduces the foundations of SoSE and Design for Sustainability. It then identifies eight essential capabilities for developing sustainable system of systems, emphasizing a holistic approach that considers processes, methods, technologies, people, and the environment. Finally, it outlines the challenges of such approach and indicates future work. Despite the difficulties associated with adopting this approach, the paper highlights the profound significance and implications that complex systems have on the environment in which they operate.
Does the firm's life cycle matter in the relationship between short‐term debt and investment efficiency?
Authors: Abuhommous Ala'a Adden Awni 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIn this paper, we investigate the role of short‐term debt in investment efficiency, and we examine the impact of the firm's life cycle stages on this relationship. Using data from non‐financial companies in the United States from 1971 to 2021, we argue that the short‐term debt may reduce the information asymmetries and discipline the management decisions, thus improving the investment efficiency. We argue, however, that the relationship varies throughout different life cycle stages. We find that short‐term debt positively influences investment efficiency and over‐investment. Furthermore, the firm's life cycle significantly impacts investment efficiency, with the introduction and growth stages negatively associated with it. The life cycle also affects the relationship between short‐term debt and investment efficiency, particularly during the growth stage. These results emphasis the role of short‐term debt and the firm's life cycle in mitigating information asymmetries and shaping management behaviour.
Impact of maternal HIV infection on perinatal outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Atowoju Inioluwa , Dawer Prachi , Asrani Manisha , Panjiyar Binay 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundMaternal HIV infection remains a significant global health concern with potential repercussions on perinatal outcomes. Emphasis on early intervention to improve peri‐ and postnatal outcomes in infected mothers and infants is a valid therapeutic concern.ObjectivesTo comprehensively analyze perinatal outcomes associated with maternal HIV infection and evaluate adverse effects associated with the HIV infection in the existing literature.Search StrategyA comprehensive search of PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar was conducted from 2013 to September 2023, using relevant MeSH terms.Selection CriteriaThe included studies encompassed original studies, cross‐sectional, prospective, retrospective studies and observational studies focused on perinatal outcomes in the context of maternal HIV infection.Data Collection and AnalysisThe selected studies underwent rigorous data collection and comprehensive quality checks and adhered to the PRISMA guidelines.Main ResultsNine eligible studies from Brazil, China, India, Malawi, Nigeria, Tanzania, the USA, and Canada were included. These studies have consistently demonstrated that maternal HIV infection is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. The analysis revealed a higher risk of preterm birth (OR 1.57, 95% CI: 1.39–1.78), low birth weight (OR 1.33, 95% CI: 1.18–1.49), and small for gestational age (OR 1.38, 95% CI: 1.24–1.53) among infants born to mothers living with HIV. Notably, the impact of antiretroviral treatment (ART) on these outcomes varied, but maternal HIV infection remained a significant risk factor regardless of income level and geographic region.ConclusionMaternal HIV infection is consistently associated with adverse perinatal outcomes, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and improved prenatal care in pregnant women with HIV infection.
Sexually transmitted infections in pregnancy and adverse pregnancy outcomes: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Govender Vani , Moodley Dhayendre , Naidoo Megeshinee , Connoly Cathy , Ngcapu Sinaye , Abdool Karim Quarraisha 
Published: April 2024

AbstractObjectiveThere is a high prevalence and incidence rate of asymptomatic sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during pregnancy in adolescent girls and young women in Africa. The association between STIs and pregnancy outcomes in a hyperepidemic HIV setting has not been well described.MethodsPregnant women, HIV‐1 negative and <28 weeks' gestation at three primary health clinics in KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa were enrolled from February 2017 to March 2018. Vaginal swabs collected at the first and later antenatal visits were stored and retrospectively tested for HSV‐2, Trichomonas vaginalis, Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae at the end of the study. The association between STIs detected at first and later antenatal visits and pregnancy outcome was assessed using multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for maternal age and treatment received for symptomatic STIs.ResultsTesting positive Mycoplasma genitalium at the first antenatal visit was significantly associated with low birth weight (odds ratio [OR] 5.22; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.10–15.98). Testing positive for T. vaginalis at the repeat visit was significantly associated with preterm births (OR 2.37; 95% CI: 1.11–5.03), low birth weight (OR 2.56; 1.16–5.63) and a composite adverse pregnancy outcome (OR 2.11; 95% CI: 1.09–4.08). Testing positive for HSV‐2 at the repeat visit was also likely associated with experiencing a preterm birth or any adverse pregnancy outcome (OR 3.39; 95% CI: 0.86–13.3) (P = 0.096).ConclusionsAmong predominantly asymptomatic STIs, M. genitalium detected at baseline visit was significantly associated with low birth weight, while T. vaginalis detected at the repeat visit in later pregnancy was significantly associated with preterm birth. Further research is warranted to study the impact of etiological testing of STIs at more than one antenatal visit and empirical treatment on pregnancy outcomes.