bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Research on spatial variation of soil particles in railway saline soil subgrade under freeze-thaw cycles
Authors: Duan Yanfu , Cheng Jianjun , Chen Yuanqinq , Yin Dawei , Zou Bo 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In order to study the relative displacement and spatial position variation characteristics of soil particles inside railway saline soil subgrade, as well as the relationship between the number of freeze-thaw cycles and soil particle displacement, four monitoring points were set in samples with different moisture contents. After undergoing 0, 10, 20, and 30 freeze-thaw cycles, the position of monitoring points was determined through CT scanning to study the spatial variation characteristics of soil particles. Through research, it was found that: (1) After 10, 20, and 30 freeze-thaw cycles, the spatial position of the monitoring points in the sample showed significant changes. And with the increase of water content, the spatial changes of monitoring points become more and more obvious. (2) After 30 freeze-thaw cycles, the horizontal and vertical displacement of monitoring point 4 in the sample with a moisture content of 4% were the smallest, with values of 4.827 um and 40.39 um, respectively; The maximum horizontal and vertical displacement at monitoring point 4 in the sample with a moisture content of 10% were 113.34um and 28.239 um, respectively. (3) As the water content increases, the relative spatial displacement between monitoring points continues to increase. (4) Comparing the theoretical calculated displacement with the experimental displacement, the two show a consistent trend of change, and the highest similarity between the two is 0.91, with an average similarity of 0.67. The research results reveal the spatial variation pattern of soil particles inside railway saline soil subgrade.
A novel strategy to facilitate uniform epithelial cell maturation on liquid-liquid interfaces
Authors: Sonoi Rie , Kamihira Masamichi 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background: Liquid-liquid interfaces, such as lacrimal fluid of the eye, are pervasive in living organism. While culturing cells in an environment that closely mimics in vivo conditions enhances our understanding of cell characteristics and unveils underlying mechanisms, practical considerations have led to predominant use of solid surfaces, such as polystyrene or glass, for cell culture. In this study, we introduce a novel culture design aimed at promoting uniform maturation of epithelial cells using liquid materials.
Results: Culturing Madin–Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells at the liquid-liquid interface yielded reduced migration and stimulated active cell growth. Similar to solid-liquid interfaces, cells cultured on a fibronectin-coated liquid-liquid interface exhibited active migration and growth, ultimately reaching a confluent state. These cells exhibited reduced stress fiber formation and adopted a cobblestone-like shape, which led to their even distribution in the culture vessel. Analysis of staining images of the tight junction (TJ) protein ZO-2 revealed that the frequency of ZO-2-positive cells, FZ, in cultures on the fibronectin-coated liquid-liquid interface was 2.2-fold higher than that on the non-coated liquid-liquid interface at t = 72 h. To inhibit stress fiber formation and apoptosis, the exposure of cells to Y27632, a specific inhibitor of the Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK), facilitated uniform maturation (FZ = 0.73). Additionally, a similar trend was observed in cells cultured on the fibronectin-coated liquid-liquid interface (FZ = 0.80) at t = 72 h. In Y27632-exposed cells on the liquid-liquid interface, the value obtained by subtracting the standard deviation of the ratio of nucleus densities in each region that compartmentalized a culture vessel from 1, denoted as HLN, was 0.93 0.01, indicating even cell distribution in the culture vessel at t = 72 h. Across all culture conditions, the HLN and FZ values exhibited a close correlation (R2 = 0.93), suggesting that cell distribution in the culture vessel is related to the formation of TJs in the late phase of maturation.
Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the behaviors of epithelial cells on liquid-liquid interfaces contribute to the promotion of their uniform maturation.
Formation mechanism of wood rotary welding interface by various additives
Authors: Wu: Jiawei , Zhang Zhongfeng , He Jiarong , Yang Yang , Zhang Lei , Huang Kai 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In order to improve the interfacial properties of rotary welding of wood, additive pre-treatments for wooden tenons were conducted as follows: immersion in oleic acid-modified calcium carbonate whiskers (group CA), no treatment (group DZ), immersion in CuSO4 and Na2SO3 for a duration of 8 hours (group CN), and addition of calcium carbonate in the pre-drilled holes (group L). The scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mechanical properties tests, Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry tests (Py-GC/MS) were performed to evaluate the properties of the welded interfaces. After additive treatment, the welded interface exhibits a layered structure resembling grout, with an increased relative content of cellulose and lignin on the interface, indicating enhanced intramolecular cohesion. The generation of high molecular weight aromatic methoxy groups confirms the intermolecular connection. As a result, the mechanical properties and water resistance of the rotational welded interface are significantly improved. With the exception of the CN group, all specimens meet the strength requirement (≥ 0.7 MPa) specified in GB/T 14018 − 2009 "Test Method for Wood Nail Grip Strength"(in China), and the CA group exhibits the most exceptional welding interface performance.
Measurement of the water absorption on hybrid carbon fibre prepreg waste composite and its impact on flexural performance
Authors: Shukri Ahmad Ashari Ahmad , Nosbi Norlin , Omar Mohd Firdaus , Sa Siti Shuhadah Md , Othman Muhammad Bisyrul Hafi , Najib Norazwana Mohd , Ali Wan Fahmin Faiz Wan 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Carbon fibre prepreg which is crucial to composites and aircraft is shaped through cutting and trimming during manufacturing process. However, due to its short life span the resulting waste known as carbon fibre prepreg waste (CFW) exists and is not utilized in the finished product. Therefore, this presents difficulties for applications involving composite reinforcement fibres. This study explores CFW recycling through the hybridization method, emphasizing moisture's impact on resulting composites' flexural performance and degradation. Optimal composition for samples is determined via the design of the experiment, Minitab software. It is revealed 2.5 wt% carbon fibre prepreg waste and 97.5 wt% epoxy resin as optimal for CFW-EP. Similarly, for CFW-EP-AL, 2.5 wt% carbon fibre prepreg waste, 2.5 wt% alumina, and 95 wt% epoxy resin proved optimal. Samples of epoxy resin polymer (EP), carbon prepreg waste reinforced composite (CFW-EP), and carbon prepreg waste reinforced with alumina composite (CFW-EP-AL) were then fabricated accordingly. The hybrid waste composites were subjected to a moisture absorption test, unveiling visible degradation over time. Measurements collected at 24-hour intervals calculated moisture content and diffusion coefficients. Flexural testing illustrated moisture's impact on composite characteristics. These findings offer insights into sustainable materials for diverse applications, underlining the need for meticulous compositional analysis to achieve optimal flexural strength in recycled composites.
Effect of coupling agent ratio on the physical and mechanical properties of wood-recycled High Density Poly Ethylene composites
Authors: Elrasasi T. Y. , Reda L. M. , Mohamed L. A. , MOUBARAK D. I. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The influence of concentration of the polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride (PEGMA) as a coupling agent on the mechanical and physical properties of wood plastic composites was studied. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigation showed the enhancement of the homogeneity because of the presence of PEGMA. FT-IR results indicated a new created chemical bond at 1734 cm− 1 between the natural fiber and the polyethylene chains. Thermogravometric analysis (TGA) showed that the thermal stability has been improved. Results shows that the mechanical and physical properties of WPC were enhanced by increasing the amount of added and then decreased after 2% wt. of PEGMA.
The Impact of Leadership Styles on Employee Performance and Job Satisfaction in Private Banks: A Study on Transformational and Transactional Leadership
Authors: Shakib Shahriar 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The research delved into the impact of leadership styles on employee performance and job satisfaction within Private Banks, focusing on the examination of transformational and transactional leadership. Noteworthy findings emerged, revealing that transformational leadership, characterized by inspiration, motivation, and support, significantly correlated with heightened employee performance and increased job satisfaction among Private Banks employees. Conversely, transactional leadership, emphasizing clear job expectations and compliance, displayed more selective influence on specific performance aspects but exhibited limited impact on intrinsic job satisfaction. These findings bear significant implications for Private Banks operational strategies, suggesting that a combination of transformational leadership practices alongside selective integration of transactional elements could optimize employee performance and job satisfaction. The study contributes empirically sound evidence to leadership studies, enriching the discourse on leadership behaviors' influence on organizational dynamics. Practical recommendations derived from these findings could guide Private Banks in fostering a conducive work environment, aligning with organizational goals and enhancing employee well-being. Further research opportunities lie in longitudinal or comparative studies across Islamic banking institutions to deepen the understanding of leadership impacts on employee dynamics. Ultimately, this research underscores the pivotal role of leadership styles in shaping employee performance and job satisfaction at Private Banks, offering actionable insights for organizational enhancement.
Soil microbial communities and biogeochemistry during human decomposition differs between seasons: evidence from year-long trials
Authors: Taylor Lois S. , Mason Allison R. , Noel Hannah L. , Essington Michael E. , Davis Mary C. , Brown Veronica A. , Steadman Dawnie W. , DeBruyn Jennifer M. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background Human decomposition in terrestrial ecosystems is a dynamic process that creates localized hotspots of soil nutrient cycling and microbial activity, and the study of its progression is crucial to understanding the processes involved in recycling carcass-derived organic matter. However, longer-term (beyond a few months) impacts on microbial communities in these environments are poorly characterized and do not typically connect microbial community analysis to biogeochemistry, limiting our understanding of these ephemeral hotspots. We performed a pair of year-long human decomposition trials designed to characterize seasonal differences (summer and winter) with high temporal resolution. Microbial (16S and ITS rRNA) amplicon sequencing and quantification were integrated with biogeochemical measurements to identify key drivers of microbial successional patterns. Results In both seasonal trials we observed soil acidification, elevated microbial respiration, and concomitant reductions in soil oxygen concentrations. Soil oxygen concentration was a primary driver of microbial succession and nitrogen transformation patterns, while pH largely drove fungal diversity and abundance. Relative abundances of facultative anaerobic taxa (FirmicutesandSaccharomycetes) increased during the period of reduced soil oxygen. The magnitude and timing of the decomposition responses varied by season, with greater increases in the warmer season and longer pulse times in the cooler season, even when corrected for thermal inputs (accumulated degree days). After one year, several soil chemical parameters, microbial community structure, and fungal gene abundances remained altered, suggesting longer-term impacts on soil ecosystems. Conclusions Our work shows that decomposition patterns differ seasonally in terms of their impacts on soil biogeochemistry and microbial successional patterns, thus refining our understanding of decomposition dynamics. When considering the decomposition of human remains specifically, these collective biogeochemical and ecological shifts have potential to be harnessed as a forensic tool for refining postmortem interval (PMI) estimates.
Is There a Desired Added Worker Effect? Evidence from Involuntary Job Losses
Authors: Beckmannshagen Mattis , Glaubitz Rick 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Existing research has found little to no evidence for an added worker effect. However, studies to date have only analysed individuals’ actual labor supply responses to their partners’ job loss, neglecting to consider a potential mismatch between desired and actual labor supply adjustments. Using data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP), we study individuals’ changes in actual and desired working hours after their partners’ involuntary job loss in an event study design. Our results show that neither desired nor actual working hours change significantly. Thus, we provide first evidence that the absence of the added worker effect is in line with individuals’ stated labor supply preferences and is not the result of an inability to realise desired working hours.
JEL Code: J22 · H55
Reinforced Variable Selection via Natural Policy Gradient
Authors: Le Yuan , Zhou Fan , Bai Yang 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Variable selection identifies the best subset of covariates when building the prediction model, among all possible subsets. In this paper, we propose a novel reinforced variable selection method, called “Actor-Critic-Predictor”. The actor takes an action to choose variables and the predictor evaluates the action based on a well-designed reward function, where the reward baseline is learned by the critic. We model the variable selection process as a multi-armed bandit and update the subset of variables being selected using a natural policy gradient algorithm. We provide an analytical framework on how different errors impact the performance of our method theoretically. Large amounts of experiments on both synthetic and real datasets show that the proposed framework is easy-implemented and outperforms classical variable selection methods in a wide range of scenarios.
A comparative outcome of feasibility and outcomes in robot assisted radical prostatectomy on Hugo RAS Medtronic and Da Vinci system: A single center initial experience in Asia Pacific
Authors: TYAGI VIPIN , TYAGI ANKIT , AGARWAL BIPUL , PISRE KUNAL , AGARWAL ANKIT 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in male population in India. Robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy is treatment of choice for prostate cancer. We here compare 24 cases each done by Da Vinci Si system and Hugo RAS system by a single surgeon for localized prostate cancer between June 2022 and September 2023 in Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi. Preoperative data included basic demographic data, PSA levels, MRI and Gleason grade. Variables assessed during procedure were operative duration, blood loss and intraoperative complications, and after procedure were hospital stay, medical expenses and histopathology report. Urinary incontinence was assessed at 3 months follow-up. Mean age distribution was comparable(p value = 0.95). No significant difference was seen in preoperative PSA (p value = 0.326), MRI reports (p-value = 1) and transrectal biopsy (p-value = 0.789). None of the patients suffered from any major intraoperative complications. No significant difference was seen in blood loss (p value = 0.903). However there was significant difference was seen in mean duration of surgery(Hugo RAS vs Da Vinci ; 329.92 ± 66.45 vs 226.67 ± 35.31; p value < .0001). No significant difference was seen in discharge(p value = 0.552) and medical expenses(p value = 0.051). The histopathological examination results and margin status were comparable in both groups(p value = 1). No significant difference was seen in urinary incontinence at 3 months follow up between the two groups. This study proves the safety and feasibility of RARP with the Hugo RAS system when compared to da Vinci Si system however long term outcomes in larger series need to be assessed.
RETRACTED: Effect of intermittent urethral catheter clamping combined with active urination training (ICCAUT) strategy on postoperative urinary retention after radical rectal cancer surgery: single- center randomized controlled trial (ICCAUT -2) study protocol
Authors: He Tingting , Wang Quan , Sun Jianan , Hu Haiyan , Zhang Bin , Ma Jingyu , Wang Hongyan , Guo Yuchen 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Nonlinear Optical Phenomena in Atomic Media: Gaussian Beam Propagation with Kerr Effect and Spatial Refractive Index Modulation
Authors: ariq Muhammad T , Khan Abuzar 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This research investigates the intricate interplay between Gaussian beams and atomic media, introducing a novel approach by incorporating a Kerr field and spatially dependent refractive index. The study employs a Gaussian probe field as the primary interaction medium with the atomic ensemble, while simultaneously introducing two control fields. One of these control fields acts as a Kerr field, imparting a unique modulation on the propagation characteristics of the Gaussian beam. The key parameters under scrutiny encompass the probe field detuning (∆P /γ), as well as the Rabi frequencies and detunings of the control fields (Ω1,2/γ, ∆1,2/γ). Further exploration involves transforming one of the control fields into a Gaussian beam, resulting in the creation of a spatially dependent refractive index within the atomic medium. The investigation focuses on the spatial coordinates x/ω0 and y/ω0, where ω0 represents the Gaussian beam waist. This intricate configuration provides a unique platform for studying the manipulation and control of light propagation in atomic media. The research not only sheds light on fundamental interactions in quantum optics but also opens avenues for potential applications in quantum information processing and precision measurement. The outcomes of this study contribute valuable insights into the dynamics of Gaussian beams in complex atomic environments, with potential implications for quantum technology and communication.
Phase purity analysis of Ni x Cu 1-x Fe 2 O 4 Nanoparticles using Jana2006 Refinement analysis for Waste Water Treatment Applications
Authors: T Vigneswari , P Thiruramanathan , O Senthilkumar , S.M Senthil Kumar 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The low-cost sol-gel combustion method is used to create nickel-doped copper ferrite (NixCu1-xFe2O4 where x = 0, 0.5 and 1.0) nanoparticles with di-ethanolamine as a size-reducing agent. The temperature effect on X-ray Diffraction (XRD), combined with the Jana2006 refinement result suggested that 500 0C is an optimum temperature for obtaining phase pure CuFe2O4 and NiFe2O4 nanoparticles. The phase fraction, lattice parameters, unit cell volume, micro strain, crystallite size and dislocation density are also reported. Strain-induced broadening of the structural properties of CuFe2O4 and NiFe2O4 nanoparticles is analysed using the Williamson–Hall plot. Activation energy analysis revealed that 4.93 kJ/mol and 4.45 kJ/mol of energy are required to produce the CuFe2O4 and NiFe2O4 nanoparticles, respectively. Indistinguishable particle morphology with partial agglomeration was observed in the SEM results. Direct and indirect band gap values are found to decreases with increasing x values. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) results revealed that reductions for COD and TOC vary from 93 to 95%, while the BOD/COD rate changes from 0.13 to 0.57. The 18-fold increase in the BOD/COD ratio led to a significant improvement in the biodegradability of the industrial wastewater.
A systematic review of approaches developed and used for the environmental assessment of biorefineries
Authors: Ianda Tito Francisco , Kalid Ricardo de Araújo , Pessoa Fernando Luiz Pellegrini , Medeiros Diego Lima , Santos Dayvid Souza , Padula Antônio Domingos 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Biorefineries are industrial units that have a productive matrix with biological characteristics capable of producing high-value inputs and products added to the chemical, pharmaceutical, food, or cosmetics industry. In this context, this research aims to develop a systematic review of the environmental assessment of biorefineries to support the identification of new research frontiers on the topic. As a method, Scientific Mapping was used with tools from the Bibliometrix package in the R® software. The data was collected on the Web of Science database platform and analyzed using the Biblioshiny function. The search period covers the years 2008– 2021, in which 608 scientific publications were selected for analysis. The results indicate that the evolution of scientific knowledge on environmental assessment of biorefineries is associated with mathematical models for measuring environmental impact categories, mainly greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with global warming potential (GWP). The need to improve these models was observed, such as the consensus for the procedure for allocating environmental aspects to evaluate the impacts of multi-product biorefineries. Thus, to evaluate the environmental impact of biorefineries with a focus on the use of native vegetation resources, the results of this research suggest the use of the partitioning allocation procedure, which allows the evaluation of the impact categories for each product of the multi-product biorefinery. The research also identified that issues of preservation of forest resources were not addressed in the literature analyzed, which indicates the need to promote research to support the valuation and economic use of forest resources, the preservation of native forests, and strengthening the transition movement to a sustainable economy.
Intensified Responses of Phytoplankton to the Indian Ocean Dipole Under Greenhouse Warming
Authors: Pathirana Gayan , Noh Kyung-Min , Lee Dong-Geon , Park Hyo-Jin , Wang Dongxiao , Kug Jong-Seong 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) has been proposed to be a key driver of biological processes in the Indian Ocean (IO) in the present climate. Given the expected influence of global warming on both the properties of the IOD and the biogeochemistry within the IO, a key question arises: How will the relationship between the IOD and chlorophyll evolve in a warming climate? Here, utilizing simulations from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) Phase 6 Earth System models, our findings reveal a notable intensification in the IOD-chlorophyll relationship under greenhouse warming. This intensification is linked to an increase in phytoplankton biomass during the June to November period of positive IOD years in the southeastern IO (SEIO). Interestingly, our analysis indicates a substantial rise in IOD-induced chlorophyll levels in a warming climate, despite a marked decrease in IOD-induced upwelling in the SEIO. The shallower thermocline leads to an increase in the mean nutrient concentration in the subsurface layer, thereby facilitating an enhanced anomalous nutrient supply to the surface layer, which contributes to increased phytoplankton biomass. Our study highlights the consequential effects of IOD on chlorophyll dynamics and underscores the need for improvement of Earth System Models to resolve our understanding of biophysical interactions in the IO in response to global warming.