bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity analysis of hygrothermal effect in triangular rigid frame area of V-shaped pier rigid frame bridge
Authors: Chu Xurong , Li Rui , Ding Hao , Wang Yubian , Alexandrovich Erofeev Alexander 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The V-shaped pier rigid frame bridge is a multiple statically indeterminate structure with the consolidation of the pier beam foundation, and the secondary internal force effect of the triangular rigid frame area rigidly connected by the V pier and the No.0 block is significant under the action of temperature and humidity. Therefore, taking the Gunnong Bridge in Myanmar as the engineering background, by establishing the finite element model of the whole bridge space bar system and the local solid model of the triangular rigid frame area to study the sensitivity of the three most important ambient factors of temperature, humidity, and wind speed to the hygrothermal effect of the triangular rigid frame area of the V-shaped pier rigid frame bridge. The results show that the hygrothermal stress of box girder and V pier is linearly correlated with temperature and relative humidity, and nonlinearly correlated with wind speed. Under the influence of temperature, wind speed and relative humidity, the hygrothermal stress at the junction of V pier river water and air is greater than that at the upper and lower roots of V pier. The sensitivity of structural hygrothermal stress to temperature and relative humidity is constant, and the sensitivity to wind speed is linear negative correlation. When the wind speed is less than 6m/s, the sensitivity of wind speed is much greater than that of temperature and relative humidity.
Single cell sequencing and multiple machine learning identified CD2 and ITGAV as novel biomarkers for NASH-related fibrosis
Authors: Yan Xuebing , Li Chunyang , Xi Deyang , Hu Junhan , Raun Yuhua , Wang Jialu 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) is a prevalent form of liver inflammation that can progress to fibrosis and even hepatocellular carcinoma. The purpose of this research is to explore the biomarkers for NASH-related fibrosis based on single cell sequencing and machine learning.
Methods
We retrieved three datasets from the GEO database (GSE228232, GSE162694, GSE130970). Within GSE228232, we conducted cell annotation, pseudotime analysis, cell communication, and high-dimensional Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (hdWGCNA). In GSE162694, differential analysis, immune cell infiltration, and enrichment analyses were performed to discern the gene differences between the NASH and NASH-F groups. Ultimately, multiple machine learning algorithms were employed to validate the biological markers of NASH-F.
Results
In the analysis of the GSE162694 dataset, immune infiltration studies revealed significant differences in various types of T cells between the NASH and NASH-F groups. Pseudotime analysis indicated a strong association between NASH-F and T cells with high expression of Cd8a/b, Cxcr6, and Pdcd-1. Through single-cell sequencing and transcriptome analysis, we have isolated a set of 15 genes conserved between mouse models and human cases of NASH. This conserved gene set includes BCL11B, CD2, CD3E, CD5, GLS, GZMK, ICOS, ITGAV, LEF1, NEURL3, NR4A3, PFKP, RGS1, THEMIS, and THY1. Subsequent machine learning models corroborated CD2 and ITGAV as biomarkers for NASH-F.
Conclusion
Leveraging single-cell sequencing and multiple machine learning, our study delves into the pathogenesis of T cells in NASH-associated fibrosis and identifies CD2 and ITGAV as biomarkers of NASH-F.
Hybrid model of the FEM method and the SAR algorithm to perform reliability-based design optimization of the solder joints in the BGA assembly
Authors: Reddad Hakima , Zemzami Maria , Hami Norelislam El , Hmina Nabil , Nguyen Nhan-Quy 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Metaheuristic optimization algorithms are powerful for solving complex optimization problems, almost when we lack information about the nature of their objective function. Meanwhile, the Finite Element Method (FEM) is a very powerful method for predicting and simulating the behavior of systems subjected to various stresses, whether electrical, thermal, mechanical, vibratory or magnetic. In the current study, we have proposed an optimization methodology that couples a metaheuristic algorithm - the Search and Rescue Algorithm (SAR) - with the finite element method. We then investigated the proposed methodology for optimizing the reliability of solder balls with respect to their geometry in a Ball Grid Array (BGA) assembly subjected to thermal cycling load. First, we performed a sensitivity analysis to determine the parameters influencing solder ball reliability, then we optimized the plastic deformation of solder balls, hence increasing their reliability as a function of their geometry through the proposed methodology, which results in improving the reliability of the entire electronic component.
Developing a city-wide, community-engaged cancer disparities research agenda
Authors: Leader Amy E. , Song Yawei , González Evelyn T. , Fortune Thierry , Graciani Nilsa , Zeigler-Johnson Charnita , Glanz Karen 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction: In response to high levels of cancer disparities in Philadelphia, PA, three NCI-designated clincal cancer centers formed Philadelphia Communities Conquering Cancer (PC3) to bring stakeholders together and establish infrastructure for future cancer reducing initiatives. The PC3 coalition aimed to develop a prioritized cancer disparities research agenda in order to align cancer center resources and research interests with the concerns of the community about cancer, and to ensure that initiatives were patient- and community-centered.
Methods: Agenda development activities culminated in a city-wide cancer disparities conference. The conference, attended by 55 diverse stakeholders, was the venue for small group discussion sessions about cancer concerns related to prevention, early detection, treatment, survivorship and quality of life. Sessions were guided by a moderator guide and were audiorecorded, transcribed, and analyzed by the PC3 leadership team. Results were reviewed and consensus was achieved with the help of PC3’s Stakeholder Advisory Committee.
Results: Stakeholders identified four thematic areas as top priorities for cancer disparities research and action in Philadelphia: communication between patients, providers, and caregivers; education that reaches patients and community members with tailored and targeted information; navigation that assists people in finding and accessing the right cancer screening or treatment option for them; and representation that diversifies the workforce in clinics, cancer centers, and research offices.
Conclusion: A community-informed, prioritized research agenda provides a road map for the three cancer centers to collaborate on future initiatives that are important to patients and stakeholders, to ultimately reduce the burden of cancer for all Philadelphians.
Advancing Embryo Selection: A Comparative Study of State-of-the-Art Deep Learning Models for IVF Embryo Quality Assessment
Authors: Tran Duc M. , Pham Phat T. , Nguyen Anh H. , Vu Hieu H. , Do Cuong , Pham Lam D. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the application of deep learning models for embryo quality assessment in the field of in vitro fertilization (IVF). As embryo selection plays a crucial role in the success rates of IVF treatments, it is important to adopt an automated and accurate system to evaluate embryo viability. Our study focuses on comparing the effectiveness of four state-of-the-art deep learning models: VGG-19, EfficientNet, MobileNet, and ResNet, in classifying embryos based on their Inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm (TE) cell characteristics from microscopic images. Utilizing a dataset of 1,020 embryonic images from two significant developmental stages distributed through the World Championship in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence 2023 - ISODS, we systematically trained and evaluated each model to address the challenges posed by small and imbalanced datasets commonly encountered in medical imaging. Through a series of experiments, including the application of data augmentation techniques and advanced model training strategies, we aimed to optimize model performance and minimize overfitting. The results revealed that EfficientNet-B0 has a high accuracy and robustness in distinguishing between viable and non-viable embryos. Additionally, we explored the potential of explainable AI techniques, such as Grad-CAM visualizations, to provide insights into the decision-making processes of the models. This study not only contributes to the advancement of automated embryo assessment systems but also lays the groundwork for future research to enhance IVF success rates through improved embryo selection methodologies.
Effect of benzoic acid-based and cinnamic acid-based polyphenols on foaming properties of ovalbumin at acidic, neutral and alkaline pH conditions
Authors: Wen Hedi , Zhang Deju , Ning Zhenzhen , Li Zihao , Zhang Yan , Liu Jingbo , Yu Ting , Zhang Ting 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
To broaden the application of ovalbumin (OVA) in food formulations, it is meaningful to improve its foaming characteristics. This study aimed to investigate the effect of benzoic acid-based (3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, DA) and cinnamic acid-based polyphenols (trans-2-hydroxycinnamic acid, T2A) on the foaming properties of OVA at acidic (pH 3.0), neutral (pH 7.4) and alkaline (pH 9.0) pH conditions. Both the addition of polyphenols and acid treatment enhanced the foaming properties of OVA. Surface hydrophobicity, circular dichroism, free sulfhydryl groups, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results indicated that after acidic workup, the presence of stronger hydrophobic interactions in OVA-polyphenol aggregates induced more disordered protein conformation and conversion or breakage of disulfide bonds. Particle size and zeta potential indicated that acidic treatment neutralized protein surface charges, further inducing self-aggregation and swelling of OVA, ultimately enhancing foaming properties. Comparatively, T2A exhibited better foam-inducing capacity due to its stronger interaction with OVA, leading to the unfolding of the OVA structure and the exposure of more hydrophobic groups. The intrinsic and 3-D fluorescence spectra experiments also confirmed that OVA-T2A aggregates at pH 3.0 had greater altered non-covalent interaction forces and protein secondary and tertiary structures compared to other complexes. This study provides a theoretical basis for designing protein formulations with excellent foaming properties.
Occurrence and concentrations of traditional and emerging contaminants in onsite wastewater systems and water supply wells in eastern North Carolina, USA
Authors: Humphrey Charles P. , Iverson Guy , Hvastkovs Eli , Pradhan Sushama 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTSs) and private wells are commonly used in Eastern North Carolina, USA. Water from private wells is not required to be tested after the initial startup, and thus persons using these wells may experience negative health outcomes if their water is contaminated with waste-related pollutants including bacteria, nitrate or synthetic chemicals such as hexafluoropropylne oxide dimer acid and its ammonium salt (GenX). Water samples from 18 sites with OWTSs and groundwater wells were collected for nitrate, Escherichia coli (E. coli), total coliform, and GenX concentration analyses. Results showed that none of the 18 water supplies were positive for E. coli, nitrate concentrations were all below the maximum contaminant level of 10 mg L−1, and one well had 1 MPN 100 mL−1 of total coliform. However, GenX was detected in wastewater collected from all 18 septic tanks and 22% of the water supplies tested had concentrations that exceeded the health advisory levels for GenX. Water supplies with low concentrations of traditionally tested for pollutants (nitrate, E. coli) may still pose health risks due to elevated concentrations of emerging contaminants like GenX and thus more comprehensive and routine water testing is suggested for this and similar persistent compounds.
Facile removal of rhodamine B and metronidazole with mesoporous biochar prepared from palm tree biomass: adsorption studies, reusability, and mechanisms
Authors: Azeez Luqmon , Adefunke Oyinlola , Oyedeji Abdulrasaq O. , Agbaogun Babatunde K. , Busari Hassan K. , Adejumo Ayoade L. , Agbaje Wasiu B. , Adeleke Adebayo E. , Samuel Awolola O. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Biochar was produced by pyrolysing palm tree bark biomass at 500 °C for the removal of rhodamine B (RhB) and metronidazole (MET). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray analyses were used to characterize the biochar. The biochar obtained was crystalline, mesoporous (SBET: 189.157 m2 g−1; pore diameter: 2.207 nm), clustered with prominent O–H and C = O functional groups. The pHpzc of the biochar was 7.98, and it adsorbed RhB and MET maximally at pH 3.4 and 7.2, respectively. The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms described RhB and MET adsorption, respectively, with maximum adsorption capacities (qmax) of 31.81–224.30 mg/g for RhB and 95.44–26.76 mg/g for MET from 303 to 313 K. Both adsorbates exhibit favourable physisorption processes with pseudo-second-order kinetics, as the most appropriate. The thermodynamic parameter (−ΔG°) demonstrates spontaneous adsorption processes for RhB and MET, with spontaneity increasing with temperature for RhB and decreasing with increasing temperature for MET. The adsorption process was endothermic (+ΔH°) for RhB and exothermic (−ΔH°) for MET. Given its reusability of 96 and 95% for RhB and MET, respectively, mesoporous biochar derived from palm trees is a more promising adsorbent.
Ascertainment of the most suitable water harvesting sites in a data-scarce region via an integrated PROMETHEE-II–AHP method in GIS environment
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad Usman , Masood Muhammad , Iqbal Mudassar , Ahsan Muhammad Farhan , Mustafa Anees ul 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
People residing in arid and semi-arid regions face significant challenges because of water scarcity and floods. These challenges become more severe in downstream areas of hill torrents that experience highly unpredictable periods of droughts and floods due to highly variable rainfall. Constructing small dams in hill torrents to capture rainwater from watersheds, mitigate flash floods, and recharge artificial groundwater is one of the solutions to address these issues in South Punjab. However, the success of rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems depends on their technical design and suitable site selection. To identify appropriate sites for small dams for rainwater harvesting, a combination of Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing (RS), and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) has been utilized in the catchment of the Vidore Hill Torrent, Punjab, Pakistan. The primary goal of this study was to evaluate the use of RS and MCDA in developing a suitability map, in a data-scarce region that can be useful for hydrologists, decision-makers, and planners in quickly identifying areas with the highest potential for RWH. The model incorporated several factors, including slope, runoff depth, land use, soil texture, drainage density, and lineament density. Implementing this method could also support policy changes toward widespread adoption of RWH.
Multi-criteria decision-making methods for optimal design of intermittent water distribution network
Authors: Ramani Katineni , Umamahesh Nanduri V. 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Multi-objective optimization of water distribution networks (WDNs) is crucial for achieving a balance between cost, equity, and reliability. The present study conducts a comparative analysis, evaluating the effectiveness of four multi-objective optimization algorithms implemented within the EPANET framework for the optimal design of three distinct WDNs taken from the literature. The networks were optimized considering three objectives: maximizing network resilience, and uniformity coefficient (CU, a measure of uniformity), alongside minimizing the cost of the network. Further, multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) analysis is carried out, encompassing various MCDM techniques and weighting methods, to explore the sensitivity of solution rankings. In Network 1, non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm 2 (NSGA-II) produced suboptimal solutions with CU and In values below 0.4, while caRamel, multi-objective particle swarm optimization based on crowding distance (MOPSO-CD), and multi-objective evolutionary algorithm with decomposition (MOEA/D) showcased increasing CU and In values towards 1, paralleled by a rise in network cost. The performance of NSGA-II in Network 3 was unsatisfactory (CU &lt; 0.32), while the other algorithms demonstrated satisfactory values (&gt;0.98) for reliability and (&gt;0.5) for CU. The findings offer valuable insights into cost-effective strategies for achieving equity in water supply without substantial impact on overall network cost. The findings of the study also underscore the sensitivity of ranking outcomes in MCDM analysis to the choice of technique and weighting method.
An improved transfer coefficient method considering the combined effect of reservoir level variation and rainfall and its application in the stability evaluation of multistage sliding ancient landslides
Authors: Gou Xiaofeng , Xu Mo , Li Xiao , Li Anrun , Deng Hui 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

In this paper, by considering the dynamic water pressure and particle migration effect caused by reservoir level variation, the weakening effect of slip zone soil influenced by rainfall infiltration, and the interaction force between multistage sliding bodies, an improved transfer coefficient method for multistage sliding ancient landslide is proposed under the combined action of reservoir level variation and rainfall. The results show that (1) the combined action of reservoir level variation and rainfall has a significant influence on the stability of multistage sliding ancient landslides. (2) The sliding force calculated by the improved transfer coefficient method is smaller than the calculation result by the traditional transfer coefficient method, and the residual sliding force is larger. The different sliding body stability coefficient is reduced by about 28.84, 18.13, 19.26, and 21.01%, respectively. (3) The stability results calculated by the traditional transfer coefficient are higher than the improved transfer coefficient method, which may lead to deviation in the multistage sliding ancient landslide stable state judgment. (4) This improved transfer coefficient method can provide a reference for the multistage sliding ancient landslides stability accurate evaluation in hydropower station reservoir area.
Optimizing start-up strategies for the two-inflow nitritation/anammox process: Influence on biofilm microbial community composition
Authors: Zulkarnaini Zulkarnaini , Matsuura Norihisa , Kanazawa Sui , Honda Ryo , Yamamoto-Ikemoto Ryoko 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Low-energy nitrogen removal from ammonium-rich wastewater is crucial in preserving the water environment. A one-stage nitritation/anammox process with two inflows treating ammonium-containing wastewater, supplied from inside and outside the wound filter, is expected to stably remove nitrogen. Laboratory-scale reactors were operated using different start-up strategies; the first involved adding nitritation inoculum after anammox biomass formation in the filter, which presented a relatively low nitrogen removal rate (0.171 kg N/m3 · d), at a nitrogen loading rate of 1.0 kg N/m3 · d. Conversely, the second involved the gradual cultivation of anammox and nitritation microorganisms, which increased the nitrogen removal rate (0.276 kg N/m3 · d). Furthermore, anammox (Candidatus Brocadia) and nitritation bacteria (Nitrosomonadaceae) coexisted in the biofilm formed on the filter surface. The abundance of nitritation bacteria (10.5%) in the reactor biofilm using the second start-up strategy was higher than that using the first (3.7%). Thus, the two-inflow nitritation/anammox process effectively induced habitat segregation using a suitable start-up strategy.
Profiling wastewater characteristics in intra-urban catchments using online monitoring stations
Authors: Corominas Lluís , Zammit Ian , Badia Sergi , Pueyo-Ros Josep , Bosch Lluís Maria , Calle Eusebi , Martínez David , Chesa Maria José , Chincolla Cristian , Martínez Ariadna , Llopart-Mascaró Anna , Varela Francisco Javier , Domene Elena , Garcia-Sierra Marta , Garcia-Acosta Xavier , Satorras Mar , Raich-Montiu Jordi , Peris Roger , Horno Raül , Rubión Edgar , Simón Sergi , Ribalta Marc , Palacín Ian 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the differences in intra-urban catchments with different characteristics through real-time wastewater monitoring. Monitoring stations were installed in three neighbourhoods of Barcelona to measure flow, total chemical oxygen demand (COD), pH, conductivity, temperature, and bisulfide (HS-) for 1 year. Typical wastewater profiles were obtained for weekdays, weekends, and holidays in the summer and winter seasons. The results reveal differences in waking up times and evening routines, commuting behaviour during weekends and holidays, and water consumption. The pollutant profiles contribute to a better understanding of pollution generation in households and catchment activities. Flows and COD correlate well at all stations, but there are differences in conductivity and HS- at the station level. The article concludes by discussing the operational experience of the monitoring stations.
Unraveling Amentoflavone's Therapeutic Potential in Alzheimer's Disease:
A Preclinical Assessment
Authors: Singh Sushma , Agrawal Neetu , Goyal Ahsas 
Published: March 2024

Abstract:
Alzheimer’s disease is one of the neurodegenerative diseases which causes cognition
deficit. There are currently few medications available to treat Alzheimer's disease, even
though researchers have devoted a great deal of time studying the condition and offering many
benefits. Thus, only a few drugs are available for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Amentoflavone
is a dietary component found in many plants and herbs that has several health advantages.
Amentoflavone has demonstrated strong protective benefits against a range of brain
illnesses in preclinical trials, most frequently in Alzheimer's disease. Amentoflavone, a biflavonoid,
can be identified in a variety of herbs upon isolation. Considering the beneficial properties
of this compound, this review emphasizes the pharmacological effects and botanical sources of
amentoflavone, as well as the compound's benefits and possible applications in the treatment of
Alzheimer's disorders.