bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Impacts of Surface Roughness on Cyclic Shearing Behavior of Interface between Crushed Mudstone and Steel cased Rock-Socketed Pile
Authors: Liang Yue , Zhang Jianlu , Xu Bin , Liu Zeyu , Dai Lei , Wang Kui 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

In the waterway construction projects of the upper streams of the Yangtze River, crushed mudstone particles are widely used to backfill the foundation of rock-socketed concrete-filled steel tube (RSCFST) pile—a structure widely adopted in port constructions. In practice, steel-mudstone interfaces are subjected to complex loading conditions and the surface profile varies in a certain range during construction and operation. The changes in boundary condition and material profile significantly impact the behavior of interface when subjected to cyclic loads, such as ship impacts, water level fluctuations, and wave-induced loads. In this study, a series of cyclic direct shear tests were carried out to investigate the impacts of surface roughness on interface cyclic behavior of RSCFST pile-soil. The relationship between roughness and shear stress, shear stiffness, damping ratio, normal stress, and particle breakage ratio are discussed, respectively. The mechanical behaviors observed at the steel-mudstone interface are as follows: (1) Surface roughness amplifies the initial shear stress, stiffness, and anisotropy at the steel-mudstone interface. However, it results in a reduction of these parameters in their final stages. (2) The damping ratio of the rough interface exhibits an initial increase followed by a decrease, while the smooth interface demonstrates the exact opposite trend. (3) Volumetric strain demonstrates shear contraction and shear dilatancy, both of which become increasingly evident with enhanced roughness. (4) A significant increase in the particle breakage ratio is observed with increased roughness, with the majority of fragmented particles falling within the 0.075–0.25 mm size range.
Formulation and Evaluation of Luliconazole Emulgel
Authors: SHEKAR BODDU , K.RAMESH  , G.VIJAYKUMAR  
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Introduction: In the past few decades, there has been an exponential growth in the field of herbal medicine and excipients. The aim of the present research work was to investigate the potential of emulgel in enhancing the topical delivery of Luliconazole using natural gelling agents.
Materials and Methods: Emulgel formulations of Luliconazole were formulated using two types of gelling agents, namely xanthan gum and guar gum. The influence of the type of the gelling agent and the concentration of both the oil phase and emulsifying agent on the drug release from the formulated emulgel was studied by preparing various batches. The prepared formulations were evaluated for their physical appearance, viscosity, drug release, globule size, skin irritation test, antifungal activity, and stability. Luliconazole cream available in market was used for comparison with prepared formulations.
Results and Discussion: All the prepared emulgels showed acceptable physical properties concerning color, homogeneity, consistency, spreadability, and pH value. The result of studied revealed that the optimized batch shows 96.04% release in 5 h.
The attenuating effect of the aqueous extract of the Flower of Opuntia ficus indica against lead-induced reprotoxicitè in the wistar rat
Authors: Boudjema Naouel , Ladouali Zyneb 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The objective of this study is to investigate the beneficial effect of Opuntia ficus indica flower aqueous extract against lead (Pb)-induced reprotoxicité in male Wistar rats administered orally for 4 weeks. These are divided into 6 groups: the control group (C), 2 positive controls treated with the aqueous extract of the flower of Opuntia ficus indica F1 and F2 respectively (250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg of body weight/day) ;1 group treated with lead (50 mg/kg bodyweight/day) and 2 groups of combined treatment treated with lead and aqueous extract ofopuntia ficus indica flowers (F1 + Pb), (F2 + Pb). Extracts of Opuntia ficus indica flowers are the subject of a phytochemical study. After 30 days of oral administration, the absolute weight of the testicles and of the epididymis, the plasma levels of testosterone are evaluated; in addition to sperm biology parameters (concentration, motility, vitality, velocity (VCL, VSL and VAP), cross-level (BCF) and DNA fragmentation test are evaluated by the CASA system. Testicular glutathione andepididymal (GSH), Malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) are also evaluated. The results obtained show a significant reduction in testosterone levels, absolute testicular and epididymal weights, live sperm, VCL, VSL, VAP, BCF, GSH and GPX as well as an increase in dead spermatozoa and MDA in the group treated with lead (Pb) compared to the control group (C) and the positive controls, the administration of the aqueous extract of the flowers ofopuntia ficus indica in the combination groups (F1 + Pb and F2 + Pb) caused an attenuating effect against lead-induced toxicity. Even the phytochemical study confirms that the methanolic extract of Opuntia ficus indica extract isrich in tannins and flavonoids.
Crystallization behaviors of chain extended poly (lactic acid) modified with ST-NAB3 and its improved mechanical and thermal properties
Authors: Dun Dongxing , Zhu Min , Zhou Hongfu , Li Jian , Hu Jing 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The widespread use of traditional petroleum-based plastics is causing significant environmental pollution for example microplastics issues, due to its non-biodegradability. Poly (lactic acid) (PLA) as a representative biodegradable polymer is a promising candidate to replace petroleum-based plastics in some fields of disposable packaging materials and tableware. In this work, in order to improve the poor crystallization, mechanical and heat resistance performances of PLA, styrene-acrylonitrile-glycidyl methacrylate (SAG) as a chain extender and octamethylenedicarboxylic dibenzoylhydrazide (ST-NAB3) as a heterogeneous nucleating agent (HNA) were added simultaneously into PLA matrix. The chain-extended PLA (CPLA) with branch structures had smaller crystal sizes and higher crystal density, compared with those of pure PLA. In addition, thanks to the nucleation effect of ST-NAB3 and the development of “shish-kebab”, this tendency became more pronounced in CPLA/HNA systems. It was worth mentioning that, CPLA with the ST-NAB3 content of 1 wt.% (CPLA-1) possessed the highest crystallinity of 43.6%. Meanwhile, CPLA-1 had the best impact strength and heat deformation temperature of 38.9 kJ/m2 and 91.3°C respectively, which had increased by 11.3 kJ/m2 and 32.4°C contrast to pure PLA. On the whole, this study proposed a simple and effective method, which provided a new possibility for PLA modification research.
Learning Professional Terminology With AI-Based Tutors in Technical University
Authors: Zhubanova Sholpan , Beissenov Renat , Goktas Yuksel 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This paper analyses the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into Kazakhstani technical universities to improve the acquisition of professional English terminology. The literature review investigates the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in foreign language instruction, providing a detailed overview of prospects and limitations. This study presents a framework for introducing AI-based instructors into technical foreign language teaching. The research approach included 30 students from various academic backgrounds in the experimental group and 33 students from the control group. The effectiveness of AI-based tutors is evaluated through surveys and interviews with students and teachers. This study provides a thorough examination of AI tutor creation, classroom use, and evaluation criteria. Interviews with technical university lecturers yielded insights into both potential and obstacles. The results of a survey show that students have differing opinions about the efficiency of AI tutors. The discussion contextualizes the findings in light of past research, emphasizing the multidimensional impact of AI on education. It argues for a balanced approach, viewing AI as a supplement rather than a replacement for critical thinking. There is practical advice for educators and legislators. The essay provides opportunities for future research while acknowledging constraints such as technical challenges and changing student interest.
Aggregate Shocks and Enrollment Rates over a Decade in Malawi
Authors: Hyder Asma 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In this paper we report the impact of shocks of different nature and their impact on child schooling. The study is based on Malawi Longitudinal Study of Families and Health (MLSFH) project, which provide information on seven different types of shocks and along with information on schooling of boys and girls from 2008 to 2019. We found that all shocks climatic nature or otherwise have negative effect on child enrollment except in case of damage to the house substitution effect dominate and we found evidence that girls of 7-12 years of age and boys in 13-17 years of age cohort have positive correlation with this specific shock. We also found that frequency of two shocks i.e., poor crop yield and price shock have significantly deceased as compared to other types of shocks over last 10 years. However, unemployment, business failure, divorces and damages to houses remain quite persistent over last decade. Study support suggest the social protection programs for children to address the vulnerabilities faced by households of rural Malawi.
Model robust designs for dose-response models
Authors: Duarte Belmiro , Atkinson Anthony , Oliveira Nuno 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
An optimal experimental design is a structured data collection plan aimed at maximizing the amount of information gathered.Determining an optimal experimental design, however, relies on the assumption that a predetermined model structure, relating the response and covariates, is known a priori.In practical scenarios, such as dose-response modelling, the form of the model representing the ''true'' relationship is frequently unknown, although thereexists a finite set or pool of potential alternative models. Designing experiments based on a single model from this set maylead to inefficiency or inadequacy if the ''true'' model differs from that assumed when calculating the design. One approach to minimize the impact of the uncertainty in the model on the experimental plan is known as model robust design. In this context, we systematically address the challengeof finding approximate optimal model robust experimental designs. Our focus is on locally optimal designs, so allowing some of the models in the pool to be nonlinear.We present three Semidefinite Programming-based formulations, each aligned with one of the classes of modelrobustness criteria introduced by Laute (1974). These formulations exploit the semidefinite representability of the robustness criteria,leading to the representation of the robust problem as a semidefinite program. To ensure comparability of information measures across variousmodels, we employ standardized designs. To illustrate the application of our approach, we consider a dose-response study where initially seven models werepostulated as potential candidates to describe the dose-response relationship.
Modified Abdominal Wall Reservoir Placement during Penile Prosthesis Implantation in Chinese Patients with Traumatic Pelvic Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Bai Hao-Wei , LI Peng , Yao Chencheng , Chen Huirong , Tian Ruhui , Huang Yu-Hua , Li Zheng , Zhi Er-Lei 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background:The placement of reservoir during penile prosthesis implantation (PPI) surgery is a challenge for those patients with traumatic pelvic erectile dysfunction.
Objective: This study aims to investigate a modified abdominal wall reservoir placement during PPI in Chinese patients with traumatic pelvic erectile dysfunction.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of PPI procedures performed between January 2015 and June 2023, with a specific focus on cases where the reservoirs were positioned posteriorly to the musculature of either the left or right abdominal wall. A total of 27 patients, with a mean age of 32years ( interquartile range, IQR: 24-50), and the mean duration after pelvic fracture to PPI was 84 months (IQR: 18-168),were included in this study. Fracture patterns were categorized as lateral compression (LC) (44.4%), anteroposterior compression (APC) (30%), and vertical shear (VS) (25.6%), and 70% of the patients experienced urogenital injuries
Results: Following the surgery, the mean IIEF-5 scores of these patients improved significantly, rising from 5.72±0.13 to 22.15±1.26. All dimensions of the SF-36 quality of life scale demonstrated substantial improvement except for vitality. Overall satisfaction rates for both patients and their partners after PPI surgery were 91.0% and 87.5%, respectively. Notably, only two patients (7.41%) experienced postoperative pain or foreign body sensation, which resolved during follow-up. 1 prothesis was removed due to infection (3.70%), 2 prothesis was revised due to pump malfunction (7.41%).
Conclusion: The placement of an abdominal wall reservoir is a straightforward and safe surgical technique that can be recommended for men with traumatic pelvic erectile dysfunction undergoing PPI surgery.
Transforming Driver Management in Enterprises:A Flutter-Powered Approach
Authors: Özkurt Cem 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In this study underscores the critical necessity for efficient driver management, challenging traditional enterprises entangled in paper-based processes and outdated systems. A meticulous examination illuminates the constraints hindering operational efficiency, propelling the call for a digital transformation in driver management. This research not only articulates the prevalent challenges of conventional methods but also advocates for a transformative shift, positioning Flutter as a pivotal catalyst in this evolution. Delving deep into the issues inherent in traditional approaches, the study unveils constraints, paving the way for a discussion on the multifaceted benefits of digital transformation—ranging from enhanced workflow optimization to cost-effectiveness and the establishment of a driver-centric platform. Flutter, renowned for its versatile UI toolkit, emerges as an innovative beacon, offering a comprehensive solution to the persistent challenges in driver management. Beyond a mere technological upgrade, the integration of Flutter is presented as a paradigm shift, providing a holistic and efficient solution to the intricate demands of driver management processes.
Synthesis, properties and ionic conductivity of ceramic solid electrolyte - multicomponent garnet (Y, Ln)3Fe5O12
Authors: Zhelunitsyn Ivan A. , Votyakov Sergey L. , Mikhailovskaya Zoya A. , Pankrushina Elizaveta A. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Annotation
This paper discusses the synthesis, structure and properties of multicomponent garnet (Y0.2Gd0.2Er0.2Eu0.2Dy0.2)3Fe5O12 obtained by glycine-nitrate pyrolysis and coprecipitation methods ((Y,Ln)IG_pyr and (Y,Ln)IG_ cop samples, respectively). For comparison Ме3Fe5O12 garnets (Ме=Y, Eu, Gd, Dy, Er) were synthesized and studied. According to XRD data the samples have a garnet phase with insignificant content of Fe2O3 or orthoferrites; by Rietveld refinement а distortion of FeO6 octahedra in (Y,Ln)IG_pyr was found. Grains are 1-2 microns in size and round or rod-shaped; the grains form agglomerates. The distribution of Y, Eu, Er, Gd, Dy, Fe in (Y,Ln)IG_pyr grains is more homogeneous than that in (Y,Ln)IG_cop. Absorption bands related to O2- → Fe3+ and d-d transitions of VIFe3+ and IVFe3+ were found in the optical spectra of garnets. The band gaps were estimated to be 2.45 and 2.42 eV for YIG and (Y,Ln)IG_pyr, respectively. Variations in the Raman spectra of garnets were analyzed in the ranges 80 - 300 and 300 - 750 cm-1, associated with translational displacements of Y(Ln)O8 dodecahedra and vibrations of FeO4 tetrahedra, respectively. The Raman data were analyzed using a statistical approach based on the autocorrelation function and the associated parameter Δcorr. An experimental study of the electrochemical impedance was performed. The equivalent circuit method was used to process the impedance spectra. The activation energy Ea was estimated; relaxation processes and dielectric properties of garnets were considered. Electrical conductivity of multicomponent garnet is greater than that of single-component garnet. Multicomponent garnet is characterized by lower activation energies of the electrical conductivity process, and relaxation processes occur in it at lower temperatures. The values of dielectric constants for single-component garnet Y3Fe5O12 are lower than that for multicomponent, which opens up prospects for the use of (Y0.2Gd0.2Er0.2Eu0.2Dy0.2)3Fe5O12 in microelectronics.
Memory-efficient implementation of the Heat semi-group (HSG) integral solution for the fractional screened Poisson equation on bounded domains
Authors: Solheid Bruno , Sousa José Vanterler da C. , Schneider Kleiton , Carrer José 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This paper presents a novel approach to solving the fractional screened Poisson equation on bounded domains using the heat semi-group method. This method involves finding a solution to the fractional problem by integrating the transient diffusion equation solution against a suitable weight function The methodology of the present paper consist in: to solve the pure diffusion equation using Finite Element Method (FEM); then integrate the diffusion solution using Gauss-Legendre quadrature adapted to a uniform time-grid trough first order Lagrangian interpolation. Theoretical error bounds are showed. Additionally, we propose a memory-efficient implementation of the numerical scheme to reduce the memory requirements of the code. Several numerical experiments in one and two dimensions have been run to test the integral solution’s performance and effectiveness.
Deciphering of Genotype-by-Environment Interaction using different statistical methods of walnut genotypes
Authors: Thouraya Azizi , Sghaier Taher , Ammari Youssef 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The objective of this work is to decipher the Genotype-by-Environment Interaction (GEI) by studying the adaptability and the stability of one Landrace and four introduced walnut genotypes (Franquette, Hartley, Parisienne and Lozeronne) according to their kernel ratio. The study was conducted through 4 environments in Tunisia. Data were collected from a multi-site trials (Bousalem and Mateur) during two consecutive years (2019-2020). To decompose genotype-environment interaction, various parameters that describe adaptability (Joint Regression Analysis: bi) and stability (Wricke’s écovalence: W; Hühn’s stability parameter: Sli; AMMI stability value: ASV) of the five genotypes to the four environments (site-year) were calculated.The high values of kernel ratio were obtained by the three introduced genotypes (Franquette, Parisienne and Lozerone). Landrace gives the smallest value of kernel ratio. Based on the adaptability parameter (bi), the obtained results revealed that genotype “Parisienne” is adapted to all environments, whereas “Lozeronne” to the poor environments and “Franquette” to the favorable environments. The stability of these three best genotypes according to kernel ratio depends on the used stability parameter. “Lozeronne” is stable according to Wricke’s écovalence stability parameter and “Parisienne” is stable according to Hühn’s stability parameter. Genotype “Franquette” which is adapted to a favorable environment seems unstable according to the three used stability parameters. Thus, at this level of the study, we can recommend genotype “Parisienne” to all environments and “Lozerone” to the less favorable environments.
Identifying the Heterogeneity in the Association between Workforce Diversity and Retention in Opioid Treatment among Black clients
Authors: Kong Yinfei , Guerrero Erick , Frimpong Jemima , Khachikian Tenie , Wang Suojin , D'Aunno Thomas , Howard Daniel 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
This study investigates the impact of workforce diversity, specifically staff identified as Black/African American, on retention in opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment, aiming to enhance patient outcomes. Employing a novel machine learning technique known as 'causal forest,' we explore heterogeneous treatment effects on retention.
Methods
We relied on four waves of the National Drug Abuse Treatment System Survey (NDATSS), a nationally representative longitudinal dataset of treatment programs. We analyzed OUD program data from the years 2000, 2005, 2014 and 2017 (n = 627). Employing the 'causal forest' method, we analyzed the heterogeneity in the relationship between workforce diversity and retention in OUD treatment. Interviews with program directors and clinical supervisors provided the data for this study.
Results
The results reveal diversity-related variations in the association with retention across 61 out of 627 OUD treatment programs (less than 10%). These programs, associated with positive impacts of workforce diversity, were more likely private-for-profit, newer, had lower percentages of Black and Latino clients, lower staff-to-client ratios, higher proportions of staff with graduate degrees, and lower percentages of unemployed clients.
Conclusions
While workforce diversity is crucial, our findings underscore that it alone is insufficient for improving retention in addiction health services research. Programs with characteristics typically linked to positive outcomes are better positioned to maximize the benefits of a diverse workforce in client retention. This research has implications for policy and program design, guiding decisions on resource allocation and workforce diversity to enhance retention rates among Black clients with OUDs.
Syntaxin6 contributes to hepatocellular carcinoma tumorigenesis via enhancing STAT3 phosphorylation
Authors: Huang Li , Zhong Xiaoting , Li An , Tu Fuping , He Miao , Xu Xueming , Liu Xiaohui , Zeng Xiaoli , Chi Jun , Tian Tian , Wang Chunli , Wang Xiangcai , Ye Jianming 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Syntaxin6 (STX6) is a SNARE (Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors) protein complex located in the trans-Golgi network and endosomes, which is closely associated with a variety of intracellular membrane transport events. STX6 has been shown to be overexpressed in a variety of human malignant tumors such as esophageal, colorectal, and renal cell carcinomas, and participates in tumorigenesis and development.
Methods
Based on clinical public database and clinical liver samples analysis, the expression of STX6 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues was investigated. The effects of STX6 on proliferation, migration and invasion of HCC cell in vitro and in vivo were evaluated through gain- and loss-of-function studies. The role of receptor for activated protein kinase C (RACK1) in mediating STX6 regulation of the JAK-STAT pathway was identified by protein interactome analysis.
Results
STX6 expression was upregulated in HCC tissues and its expression was highly correlated with the high histological grade of the tumor. STX6 promoted HCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, STX6 mediated tumor progression depending on promoting the activation of JAK-STAT signaling pathway. RACK1 as an essential adaptor protein mediating STX6 regulation of JAK-STAT pathway. Specifically, STX6 interacted with RACK1 and then recruited signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) to form a protein-binding complex and activates STAT3 transcriptional activity.
Conclusions
This study provided a novel concept that STX6 exerted oncogenic effects by activating the STAT3 signaling pathway, and STX6 might be a promising therapeutic target for HCC.