bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Lower Bound Estimate of the Bearing Capacity of Foundations on Inherently Anisotropic Sands: Verification with 100 Case Studies
Authors: Shokoohi Mohammad Ali , Veiskarami Mehdi , Jahanandish Mojtaba 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Bearing capacity of transversely isotropic soils have been studied by implementing the microstructure tensor in the previous works. This paper is a counterpart of the previous theoretical one which mainly focused on the verification and physical interpretation of the results. While the previous work mainly explained the theoretical framework with some numerical verifications, this paper contains a verification made by applying the results to a number of collected database of footing load tests both in the field and in the lab. The main idea is that the natural sedimentation process makes most soils some degree of anisotropy. This anisotropy is often neglected while geotechnical studies are conducted and when the bearing capacity is calculated. In this study, a comparison with theory and experimental results tries to explore the true degree of anisotropy in natural granular soil deposits, at least for practical purposes. Results indicate that if the anisotropy is ignored, the theoretical estimate of the bearing capacity is nearly 20% to 30% higher than the actual values measured in practice. Of course the nature of the test and the interpretation of the test data are influential on this general conclusion.
Intracerebroventricular PROK2 infusion could increase the secretion of male reproductive hormones by stimulating the HPG axis
Authors: Yılmaz Nesibe , Yıldız Azibe 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Intracerebroventricular PROK2 infusion could increase the secretion of male reproductive hormones by stimulating the HPG axis Background: Prokineticin 2 (PROK2), an important neuropeptide that plays a key role in the neuronal migration of GnRH in the hypothalamus, is known to have regulatory effects on the gonads. In the present study, the impact of intracerebroventricular (icv) PROK2 infusion on hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG) hormones, testicular tissues, and sperm concentration was investigated. Methods and results: Rats were randomly divided into four groups: control, sham, PROK2 1.5 and PROK2 4.5. Rats in the PROK2 1.5 and PROK2 4.5 groups were administered 1.5 nmol and 4.5 nmol PROK2 for 7 days (1 µl/hour), respectively. Rat blood serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone hormone levels were determined with the ELISA method in the blood samples after 7 days of infusion. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) mRNA expression was determined with the RT-PCR in hypothalamus tissues. analyze Sperm concentration was determined, and testicular tissue was examined histologically with the hematoxylin-eosin staining method. It was observed that GnRH mRNA expression increased in both PROK2 infusion groups. Serum FSH, LH and testosterone hormone levels also increased in these groups. Although sperm concentration increased in PROK2 infusion groups when compared to the control and sham, the differences were not statistically significant. Testicular tissue seminiferous epithelial thickness was higher in the PROK2 groups when compared to the control and sham groups. Conclusion: The present study findings demonstrated that icv PROK2 infusion induced the HPG axis. It could be suggested that PROK2 could be a potential agent in the treatment of male infertility induced by endocrinological defects.
Enhanced Structural and Electrochemical properties of Vanadium doped NiCo2O4 nanoparticles synthesized by microwave hydrothermal method
Authors: Koneti Bangari Babu , Chidurala Shilpa Chakra , Katlakunta Sadhana , Kumar Rakesh , Butreddy Ravinder Reddy 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Nickel cobaltite has been developed as an energy storage material for electrochemical supercapacitors as a solution to the present energy crisis in the world. The transition metal-doped nickel cobaltite exhibits good electrochemical properties. The vanadium-doped nickel cobaltite nanoparticles were synthesised by using an efficient microwave hydrothermal calcinated at 950°C for 4 hours. The structural analysis confirms that the prepared samples were found to be cubic spinel, with an average grain size of 108 nm. The electrochemical analysis of the samples examined by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge-discharge test, and electrochemical impedance spectrum confirms the sample V0.3Ni0.7Co2O4 exhibits a high specific capacitance (Cs) of 412.5 F g− 1, an energy density (Ed) of 12.12 Wh kg− 1, and a power density (Pd) of 243.05 W kg− 1 at a current density of 1 A g− 1 which can be used as a better performance electrode for supercapacitor applications.
Role Of Early Clinical Exposure in First Year Medical Education When Combined with Conventional Didactic Teaching.
Authors: Behera Swikruti , Sahoo Ayaskant 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Introduction:
As per the Competency Based medical education, “early clinical exposure” (ECE) is included to increase the understanding and concept building in the first phase of Medical Education. ECE does not replace the basic sciences and conventional teaching but enriches and contextualizes that learning.
Aims:
To assess the importance of early Clinical Exposure in the first MBBS medical training when done along with he didactic lectures.
Methodology:
Didactic lecture on a topic in Electrocardiogram (ECG) was taken followed by Early Clinical Exposure (ECE) for the same topic was conducted in the hospital setting on real patients was conducted. Institutional Ethical Committee approval was taken, and students were included in study after duly signing the consent letter.
Results:
The students returned a filled questionnaire after didactic lecture and the same students after an added session of Early Clinical Exposure. The students here acted as their own control. Paired t test and Wilcoxin test were done, which found the results to be highly significant (p<0.001).
Conclusion:
ECE was perceived as very satisfactory by the students, and it helped in improvement of building concept, clarity in the usefulness of classroom and theoretical teaching. In the long run this will also spike their interest in the subject. Early clinical exposure might prove to be instrumental in bridging the gap between the theory and practice from the beginning of the medical education, if executed properly.
Beyond SECI: Advancing Knowledge Transformation through Digital Innovation in MBA Education
Authors: Żatuchin Dmitrij 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The modern educational landscape is transforming, driven by the rapid advancements in technology and the evolving needs of learners. As educators strive to create more impactful and relevant learning experiences, there is a growing emphasis on understanding the dynamics of knowledge transformation. Central to this discourse is the SECI model, proposed by Ikujiro Nonaka and Hirotaka Takeuchi, which delineates the process of knowledge creation and transfer through four modes: Socialization, Externalization, Combination, and Internalization. Complementing this model is the concept of 'ba' - a shared space for knowledge creation. This research aims to explore the potential of integrating the SECI model and the concept of multi-layer 'ba'-s in course design to enhance the learning experience and better prepare students for professional challenges. As the result of research, the Cadence of Course Design Model including the SECI model is proposed, the survey is performed, and the findings based on statistical analysis are presented.
The interplay between root exudates and Cross-kingdom synthetic microbiota enhances the resistance of Vicia faba to Fusarium wilt disease
Authors: Zhang Chaowen , Li Mengyuan , Wang Hongji , Pan Ke , Wang Ruiqi , He Xinyan , Hu Cong , Fan Xuanbo , Gong Yatong , Liu Zimei , Li Xianyao , Zhao Jianjun , Han Yuzhu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Soil-borne Fusarium wilt imposes substantial economic losses on agriculture, with Vicia faba exhibiting pronounced susceptibility to Fusarium disease. However, the mechanisms underlying V. faba's resistance to Fusarium and the intricate interplay between crucial rhizosphere microbes and root exudates during pathogen attack remain inadequately understood. This study investigates the interaction between faba bean plants and the soil microbiome to elucidate the mechanisms underlying plant Fusarium wilt. Through comprehensive analysis of 16S ribosomal RNA gene and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing data obtained from the faba bean rhizosphere soil, this research successfully identified key microbial groups that are enriched in the disease-suppressing rhizosphere, namely Bacillus, Pseudomonas, and Trichoderma. The strains displayed significant inhibitory effects on Fusarium oxysporum, notably. A synthetic community was constructed using these strains, which exhibited a remarkable capacity to suppress Fusarium wilt in faba bean seedlings, achieving an impressive inhibition rate of up to 71.76%. Non-targeted metabolomics analysis was employed to uncover the metabolic pathways through which this Synthetic community aids plants in resisting pathogens. Additionally, metagenomic analysis revealed an increased abundance of Antibiotic Resistance Genes (ARGs) in the rhizosphere soil of diseased plants, while the soil associated with healthy plants exhibited enhanced activity in nitrogen fixation, nucleotide metabolism, and carbohydrate metabolism pathways. Soil metabolites and root exudates were analyzed, and a Random Forest model was employed to investigate the impact of exogenous metabolites on Fusarium wilt occurrence. Significantly, compounds such as 10 µM Betaine, Proline, and Racemosin demonstrated remarkable efficacy in reducing the incidence of Fusarium wilt. Furthermore, transcriptomic and non-targeted metabolomics analyses were conducted in this study, revealing substantial enrichment in pathways including jasmonic acid metabolism, alanine metabolism, aspartate metabolism, glutamate metabolism, and unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis in diseased V. faba. This study not only advances our understanding of plant Fusarium wilt and their impact mechanisms but also provides valuable insights for enhancing soil health and crop disease resistance.
The Theoretical Foundations of Voluntary Tax Compliance: Ordinary Logit Regression Model Application
Authors: Mebratu Agumas Alamirew 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Tax non-compliance is a persistent problem that is becoming increasingly common worldwide. The main objective of the study is to examine the factors that influence voluntary tax compliance among large taxpayers in Ethiopia, based on the theoretical foundation of tax compliance. This study used an ordinary logit regression model, a closed-ended questionnaire with 1,550 large taxpayers, and quantitative data research analysis methods. Regression analysis shows that tax compliance behavior is positively and significantly influenced by government trust, taxpayers' tax knowledge, tax system fairness, and rewards. However, the level of tax compliance is negatively and significantly affected by compliance costs. To improve the level of voluntary tax compliance, the government and tax authorities need to be more open and responsible. They must also increase tax awareness among taxpayers through websites, seminars and media. Ultimately, they must reduce compliance costs and deliver both tangible and intangible benefits to honest taxpayers.
Mapping of a stripe rust resistance gene YrYN1813 in wheat
Authors: Tang Jianwei , Gao Yan , Li Yujia , Hao Xiaopeng , Gao Mingshuang , Xu Hao , Liang Zhiheng , Li Qiaoyun , Dong Chunhao , Yuan Yuhao , Cheng Yukun , Ren Yi , Geng Hongwei , Yin Guihong 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Wheat stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis Westend. f. sp. tritici (Pst), is a global threat to wheat production. Pst race CYR34 is now widely virulent and prevalent in China following its identification in 2009. Here, we report the mapping and candidate gene analysis of a stripe rust resistance gene in a Chinese winter wheat breeding line YN1813. Ten F1, 719 F2 plants, and 306 F7:8 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from cross YN1813/Chinese Spring were inoculated with Pst race CYR34 at the seedling stage in a greenhouse. Monogenic segregation for seedling stripe rust response was observed among the RILs and F2 population, and the resistance locus was designated YrYN1813. RILs were genotyped by the wheat 55K SNP array. By linkage analysis, YrYN1813 was mapped to a 0.34 cM, 2.4 Mb physical interval (717.9–720.3 Mb) spanned by AX-111630305 and AX-109458466. Following, YrYN1813 was narrowed to an approximately 254 kb (717.890–718.144 Mb) physical interval between the marker AX-111630305 and AX-108820558 by haplotype analysis, including three putative disease resistance genes based on IWGSC RefSeq v1.0. Through gene expression level analysis and sequence alignments of resistant and susceptible parents, we predicted TraesCS7B01G460500 to be a candidate gene for map-based cloning of YrYN1813. Stripe rust response data and molecular marker analysis revealed that YrYN1813 was differed from the other Yr genes on chromosome arm 7BL. YrYN1813-linked marker AQP_ AX-108877192 was polymorphic among 81.7% of 720 wheat lines and can be used for marker-assisted selection for improved stripe rust resistance in wheat.
Preparing N-defect modified g-C3N4 for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue by constructing a urea-ammonium acetate system
Authors: Yan Jia , Hu Cheng , Zhang Lianhong 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) faces limitations in its photocatalytic applications due to its inherently wide bandgap (2.7 eV), low utilization of visible light, and a high rate of recombination of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. Defect engineering can effectively enhance the ability of g-C3N4 photocatalysts to address environmental pollution. In this paper, g-C3N4 materials with N defects (AA-CN15) were successfully prepared by using urea as a hydrogen bond donor and ammonium acetate as a hydrogen bond acceptor. The catalyst exhibits a wider range of visible light absorption, a lower rate of photogenerated electron-hole recombination, and a larger specific surface area, thanks to the formation of N defects in the N1 (C = N-C) vacancy. The formation of N defects reduces the band gap width of AA-CN15 from 2.85 eV to 1.90 eV compared to U-CN. The degradation rate of AA-CN15 in a 30 mg/L MB solution under visible light irradiation can reach 91.4% within 100 minutes, which is 7.2 times higher than that of U-CN. This study addresses the limitations and drawbacks of traditional defect introduction methods, offering a novel approach for the synthesis of N-defect g-C3N4 materials.
Synthesis, characterization and photovoltaic properties of polyplatinaynes with side chain functionalization by different electron-accepting group
Authors: Wang Qiwei , Jiang Lu , Li Junlong , Sun Zelin , Wong Wai-Yeung 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Four new solution-processable platinum-containing polyynes functionalized with triphenylamine backbone and different acceptor fragment in the side chain were synthesized and characterized by spectrosocopic, thermal and optical methods. The main- and side-chains show different absorption features in the solar spectrum, resulting in broad absorption coverage of the whole visible region. By changing the acceptor group in the side chain, the photophysical properties including energy levels, absorption wavelength and bandgap of the polymers were finely tuned. As the strength of electron acceptor is increased, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic polymer solar cells fabricated with these polymers as electron donor and (6,6)-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) as electron acceptor was increased. PCE of 1.35% can be obtained from solar cell based on the polyplatinayne with the dicyanovinyl side group under illumination of an AM 1.5 solar cell simulator in a 1:4 (polymer:PCBM) blend ratio.
Distinct and combined impacts of future climate and land use change on the flow of river Rwizi in Uganda, East Africa
Authors: Sempewo Jotham Ivan , Kyeyune Joseph , Nyenje Philip M. , Nkwasa Albert , Mugume Seith N. , Tsegaye Seneshaw , Eckart Jochen 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT

Although many studies have assessed the singular impacts of future land use and climate change on river hydrology, few studies have investigated the distinct and combined impacts of land use and climate change on river flows particularly in developing countries faced with a challenge of limited data. This study addressed the aforementioned gap and applied the Soil and Water Assessment Tool and an ensemble of six CORDEX Regional Climate Models under the moderate (RCP4.5) and high (RCP8.5) emission scenarios in the river Rwizi catchment area in western Uganda for the period 2021–2050. The isolated impacts of land use change and the combined impacts showed an increase in future total annual river flows. However, the isolated impacts of climate change showed a reduction in future total annual flow. The influence of land use changes on total annual runoff was more dominant than that of climate change. The results show that climate change is the dominant factor impacting future high-flow quantiles while future annual flow and extreme low-flow variations were attributed mainly to land use changes. These findings point to the need to plan and implement prudent land use and water resource management practices to mitigate associated risks.
An integrated geospatial and analytical hierarchy process approach for sustainable water management in the Amravati District, India
Authors: Kathe Pranali , Tripathi Gaurav , Diwate Pranaya , Kanga Shruti , Singh Suraj Kumar , Chand Kesar , Kumar Pankaj , Meraj Gowhar 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Groundwater is crucial for agriculture, domestic use, and industry. This study represents groundwater potential zones in the Amravati district, Maharashtra, India, using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and multi-influencing factor (MIF) techniques. These techniques are employed for a detailed spatial analysis, which is essential for sustainable groundwater management. The study integrates data layers including lithology, geomorphology, land use/land cover, drainage density, lineament density, rainfall, soil, elevation, and slope to evaluate the groundwater potential. The resulting groundwater potential map classifies the area into five categories: poor, fair, moderate, good, and excellent based on groundwater availability. The study reveals that 9% of the area has poor groundwater potential, 37% fair, 28% moderate, 13% good, and 13% excellent. This map is instrumental for stakeholders and policymakers, as it aids in resource allocation and the formulation of sustainable groundwater management strategies. Through the application of AHP and MIF techniques, this study effectively maps the groundwater potential, providing an essential tool for evidence-based decision-making for water resource management in the Amravati district.
How College Students Used Information From Institutions of Higher Education in the United States During COVID-19: Web-Based Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Authors: Peprah Emmanuel , Amesimeku Etornam , Angulo Brian , Chhetri Himani , Fordjuoh Judy , Ruan Christina , Wang Cong , Patena John , Vieira Dorice , Ryan Nessa , Iloegbu Chukwuemeka , Gyamfi Joyce , Odumegwu Jonathan 
Published: February 2024

Background
The start of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the implementation of nonpharmaceutical interventions by US institutions of higher education at an unprecedented level. During the backdrop of an emerging pandemic, younger adults (eg, college students) had an overall lower risk for severe outcomes for SARS-CoV-2, making this population a potential source of transmission for age groups with high susceptibility and negative health outcomes. We examine how college students’ level of concern for COVID-19 was influenced by different sources of information, their living status, income level, and other demographic identifiers and its association with prevention behavior change.

Objective
We sought to examine the level of concern, defined as the extent to which the participant would take corrective action to mitigate contracting or spreading the virus (to family or friends) by using personal protective equipment such as a face mask, practicing social distancing, and following other public health recommendations, among college students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods
A cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted in 2021 among 185 college students aged 18-41 years, with most living in New York City and the United States (n=134, 72.4%). Out of 185 college students, 94 provided their zip codes, with 51 of those college students indicating they lived in New York City areas. The participants completed the survey via a QR code. Study participants who did not complete the full survey or were not college students in any US college or university were excluded. Analyses were conducted using R (version 4.2.2; R Foundation for Statistical Computing).

Results
Of 185 respondents participated in the study, 25 (13.5.%) used emails from their schools, 51 (27.6%) used mainstream media, and 109 (58.9%) used social media and other sources to obtain information about COVID-19. Of the 109 participants who learned about the pandemic from social media, 91 (83.5%) were concerned; however, only 63% (32/51) and 60% (15/25) of the participants who sourced information from mainstream media and their schools’ email, respectively, were concerned. Further, the participants who received information from social media and other sources were about 3 times more likely to be concerned about COVID-19 than participants who received information from the university via email (P=.036; OR=3.07, 95% CI: 1.06-8.83)..

Conclusions
College students who received information from social media and other sources were more likely to be concerned about COVID-19 than students who received information from their school via emails.
Josef Rotblat e as Conferências Pugwash
Authors: Martines Ivan 
Published: February 2024

Em tempos em que o fantasma de uma guerra nuclear reaparece em um novo conflito militar em solo europeu, convém retomar a discussão sobre ciência e guerra. Vale a lembrança de Josef Rotblat (1908-2005), cientista de origem judaica, nascido em Varsóvia e radicado na Inglaterra. Doutorado em Física (1938) na Polônia, Rotblat trabalhou com pesquisa em radioatividade artificial e ganhou reputação como um competente experimentalista. Mudou-se para Liverpool em 1939 para trabalhar com o físico James Chadwick (1891-1974), enquanto a Europa se aproximava da Segunda Guerra. Logo a Inglaterra iniciava pesquisas atômicas e Rotblat e outros cientistas britânicos se juntaram aos americanos em Los Álamos em janeiro de 1944, no “Projeto Manhattan”.
No decorrer do projeto, alega-se que Rotblat percebera indícios de que o objetivo maior seria o de ameaçar a URSS, já no preâmbulo da Guerra Fria, o que, somado a aspectos pessoais e a desconfiança americana de que ele pudesse repassar informações aos russos, teria influenciado seu pedido de renúncia e retorno a Liverpool em janeiro de 1945, onde se dedicou à medicina nuclear, visando aplicar seu trabalho em benefício da humanidade, que viu bombas caindo sobre Hiroshima e Nagasaki. Rotblat foi um dos signatários do Manisfesto Russel-Einstein (1955) , contra armas nucleares, junto com outros cientistas e juntou-se a Bertrand Russel (1872-1970) na criação das Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs, iniciativa de caráter pacifista na busca pelo banimento de armas nucleares, químicas e biológicas, ganhando reconhecimento mundial com o Nobel da Paz de 1995.