bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Industry Guidelines for Setting the CO2 Specification in CCUS Chains
Authors: Phillips C. , Haghighi H.
Published: November 2024

Impurities in captured CO2 can adversely affect the material integrity, operation and injectivity in CCUS chains and setting the CO2 specification requires an understanding of the impact of impurities across the whole chain.

Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) is one of the key pathways towards a net-zero future and significant growth is required in this industry. However, limited literature is currently available which supports setting a CO2 specification considering the full CCUS value chain.

A Joint Industry Project (JIP) was therefore formed to collate current knowledge surrounding impurities and to create guidelines to support industry in setting CO2 specifications for effective and economic CCUS chains. This paper discusses the guidelines, which can be downloaded from the JIP webpage [1].

The JIP comprised industry and research experts to provide a comprehensive and holistic understanding of the impact of impurities and to determine the required CO2 conditioning to meet safety, environmental, technical and operational requirements.

As shown in Fig. 1, the JIP addressed a suite of Work Packages to cover the full value chain of CCUS, considering capture of CO2 from various industrial sources and transportation via different options through to permanent sequestration in geological storage. Additional foundation Work Packages including Thermodynamics, Reaction Chemistry and Materials & Corrosion were created to underpin the entire CCUS chain.

Figure 1 JIP Work Packages [1]

Each Work Package provides a comprehensive report where the current knowledge on the impact of impurities is given and opportunities for further research identified. The reports include information such as:

A logical workflow methodology for setting a CO2 specification. Guidance on effective thermodynamic modelling of CO2 with impurities plus a comparison of the most advanced modelling methodologies against experimental data. Identification of potential chemical reactions which can lead to corrosion and/or solids deposition impacting material integrity and injectivity. Guidance for material selection and corrosion control in the presence of impurities. Review of impurity content on dispersion of released CO2. A review of CO2 capture and purification processes including a review of impurities on liquefaction. Impact of impurities on compression / pumping equipment design and operation. Discussion on the challenges of impurities on metering and sampling technology selection and calibration. Safe design and operation of pipeline and shipping transportation. Impact of impurities on injectivity, reservoir permeability and caprock integrity in saline and gas depleted reservoirs. A review of levelized cost of CO2 abatement methods and examples of impurity removal economics.

As a suite of reports, these guidelines will support readers in their understanding of the impact of impurities and aid in the setting of a CO2 specification for CCUS projects.
A Fixed Single-Point Mooring Innovation Solution for Offshore LNG-FSRU Import Terminal
Authors: Xuanze Ju , Baohui Dong , Xianwu Meng , Changquan Yin , Chong Li , Zhendong Xu , Chunchao Li , Shu Yang , Hanbao Chen , Yingni Luan , Wenjun Shen , Amaechi Chiemela Victor
Published: November 2024

Natural gas plays a critical role in sustainable development and energy transition because it's safe, high-heat and clean energy. LNG-FSRU is an offshore floating storage and regasification unit. Its main function is to receive, store and re-gasify LNG, plus transport the gasified natural gas. It gets transported ashore through subsea pipelines to supply gas to power plants and residential users. However, the mooring system is a key link in the engineering and production of LNG-FSRU. Similar to FPSO, LNG-FSRU has a variety of mooring types, including single-point mooring, multi-point mooring, dynamic positioning and dock moorings. Through comparative study, the Tower Yoke Mooring (TYM) system is widely used in shallow water FPSO, because of its good economic benefits, disconnectability and reliability. Therefore, we innovatively adopted a different berthing mode from the traditional terminal and developed a solution based on FSRU moored by TYM. Compared with the traditional fixed tower mooring system, the Tower Yoke Mooring (TYM) can reduce the overturning moment by reducing the height of the connection point, so as to facilitate the design of the mooring tower and its foundation, and the distance between the mooring point and the FSRU is shortened. Therefore, FSRU can adopt the Tower Yoke Mooring (TYM) solution to carry out overall scheme design research for LNG receiving terminal project. Meanwhile, compared with traditional onshore LNG receiving terminals, this innovative FSRU moored by TYM has the characteristics of a short construction period, rapid market development, smaller land area occupation and high device flexibility. It can be used in economically developed, environmentally sensitive and densely populated coastal areas. It is novel being energy transit, ensuring energy supply security and improving people's living standards in these areas. Thus, it meets the needs of local economic and social development.
A Novel Approach and Workflow for Reservoir Model Uncertainty Analysis
Authors: Madalimov Medet , Li Dachang , Dair Yerkinbek , Ehighebolo Ivbade Thaddeus , Salimova Rashida
Published: November 2024

Reservoir model-based uncertainty analysis (UA) has been widely applied in the oil industry for decades, but it is still facing some challenges, e.g., integration and visualization of multi-dimensional (4D++) categorical and continuous input parameters. Workarounds, simplifications, or neglect have been utilized for tentative solutions. This paper presents a novel approach/workflow in the aim of attacking these challenges in reservoir model UA. Experimental design improvement for UA is not the focus of this paper.

The proposed workflow was successfully applied to Kashagan, a giant carbonate oil field in Caspian Sea that consists of a matrix dominated platform and a non-matrix (NM) dominated rim. Despite 7 years of production/injection history, a wide range of uncertainties exist in reservoir characterization. To understand and mitigate their impact on field performance the subsurface uncertainties, a UA study was conducted. Categorical parameters (subsurface structure, fracture/karst distributions/connectivity, rock quality regions, reservoir heterogeneity etc.) and continuous parameters (matrix/non-matrix compressibility, dual-porosity/dual-permeability coupling parameter, aquifer size/connectivity, permeability/porosity, Kv/Kh ratio etc.) were used to characterize the subsurface uncertainties. Dynamic responses within 60-year forecast (oil/gas/water production/injection rates/ratios/cumulatives, recovery factor, oil in place, elapsed time, and objective function for field total/regions) were selected for analysis. Around 1000 simulation models were designed using standard DoE methods. Statistical analysis was conducted to identify linearity/non-linearity effects, correlations between input parameters, their statistical significances, and possible inflations during regression analysis. Multidimensional scaling was used to visualize the complex input-response relationship, QC&QA the responses and identify behaviors/characters (e.g., clusters) inside of the uncertainty space, which is not apparent in the original space. It opens a window into what the uncertainty scape is like and significantly improves the robustness of P10-P50-P90 (low, mid and high) models’ selection.
The Upper Araej Member: Stratigraphic Complexity and Reservoir Insights from Offshore Abu Dhabi
Authors: Tendil Anthony J.-B. , Galluccio Laura , Lettéron Alexandre , Breislin Catherine , Hatter Stuart , Khan Rizwan , Ul Hasan Affan , De Rosa Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

Extensive offshore exploration has targeted the Upper Araej Member (Middle Jurassic), representing the topmost part of the Araej Formation, and numerous hydrocarbon accumulations have been discovered and developed. This study is an integrated analysis of c.320 ft of cored wells within an offshore block, focusing on the depositional architecture and factors influencing reservoir quality to reveal the Upper Araej Member's potential.

The Upper Araej Member, with an average thickness of c.300 ft in the studied wells, contains two main carbonate reservoir intervals. These are characterised by stacked beds of dominantly massive, locally dolomitised, skeletal and peloidal pack-grainstone or grainstone deposited in high-energy, proximal settings. These are organised into repeated, ft-scale coarsening-upward trends. Medium- to coarse-grained peloids are abundant throughout the succession, whereas coarse-grained ooids and coated grains are mostly present within units showing parallel or cross-bedding. The local development of laminated features indicates shoal complexes with a higher environmental energy compared to the intervals where grainy sediments do not exhibit lamination. The common hardgrounds and firmgrounds in conjunction with the local reddened nature of the sediments indicate episodic short exposure of the shoal complexes and consequent erosion/cementation and/or oxidation of the sediments. The two reservoir units are separated by an interval associated with a marked increase in gamma-ray values, interpreted as possible argillaceous and/or organic-rich, distal deposits acting as a barrier at the scale of the study area.

The Upper Araej Member exhibits a broad range of porosity and permeability values. Grain-supported textures are notably associated with higher reservoir quality compared to mud-supported textures. Additionally, grain size emerges as a pivotal factor affecting permeability; textural analysis of selected thin sections reveals that peloid grain size dictates the size and connectivity of interparticle macropores. Specifically, a shift from fine- to coarse-grained peloids correlates with an increase in permeability for a given porosity level, due to the formation of larger pore throat radii and enhanced connectivity. Moreover, diagenetic processes like cementation and dolomitization play crucial roles in shaping reservoir characteristics. Cementation tends to decrease porosity and permeability by filling pore spaces, whereas dolomitization can improve these properties by creating secondary porosity and improving pore connectivity throughout the Upper Araej Member.

This core- and log-based integrated work not only addresses key uncertainties regarding the Upper Araej Member in Abu Dhabi but also establishes a foundation for future offshore exploration and development strategies.
Revolutionizing Complex Casing Integrity Analysis in the Middle East Using High-Resolution Acoustic Imaging
Authors: Alatigue M. F. , Egbe P. I , Aljedawi R. , Pehlke T.
Published: November 2024

High-resolution acoustic imaging was deployed for the first time in the Middle East to assess cased hole well integrity and completion performance in several different wells. These integrity-based inspections represent the first time this novel technology was ran in for the purpose of investigating well integrity risks. This paper introduces this new technology, showcases and validates its core applications in well integrity assessments, and highlights the findings from the three wells logged in 2023.

This solid-state acoustic imaging technology utilizes up to 512 independent sensors that encompass the sensors head. Each of these sensors captures amplitude or acoustic intensity signals and time of flight measurements which are then processed into 3D renderings, conventional 2D logs, and submillimetric measurements of all defects using proprietary surface detection and defect localization algorithms. The sensor array is controlled entirely electronically via software to focus the acoustic energy at the casing wall, this focal distance can be adjusted on the fly enabling multiple casing or tubing strings of varying diameters to be assessed in a single run.

This technology inspects cased wells for inner and outer diameter corrosion and pitting, casing deformation, connection defects such as over-torquing, breaches, and perforated/engineered punches, resulting in more efficient and valuable cased hole integrity inspections.

This paper showcases the results of laboratory validation of well integrity defects imaged using this technology. In addition, the paper presents example of a well inspected throughout 2023. Several unique findings were observed and the novel images from some of the most impactful findings are presented in this paper.
Single-Chip Silicon Photonic Engine for Analog Optical and Microwave Signals Processing
Authors: Deng Hong , Zhang Jing , Soltanian Emadreza , Chen Xiangfeng , Vaissiere Nicolas , Neel Delphine , Ramirez Joan , Decobert Jean , Singh Nishant , Torfs Guy , Roelkens Gunther , Bogaerts Wim
Published: November 2024

We present a photonic engine that processes both optical and microwave signals, and can convert signals between the two domains. Our photonic chip, fabricated in IMEC's iSiPP50G silicon photonics process, is capable of both generation and detection of analog electrical and optical signals, and can program user-defined filter responses in both domains. This single chip integrates all essential photonic integrated components like modulators, optical filters, and photodetectors, as well as tunable lasers enabled by transfer-printed indium phosphide optical amplifiers. This makes it possible to operate the chip as a black-box microwave photonics processor, where the user can process high-frequency microwave signals without being exposed to inner optical operation of the chip. The system's configuration is locally programmed through thermo-optic phase shifters and monitored by photodetectors, and can select any combination of optical or microwave inputs and outputs. We construct multiple systems with this engine to demonstrate its capabilities for different RF and optical signal processing functions, including optical and RF signal generation and filtering. This represents a key step towards compact and affordable microwave photonic systems that can enable higher-speed wireless communication networks and low-cost microwave sensing applications.
Association Between Time of Day and Carbonaceous PM2.5 and Oxidative Potential in Summer and Winter in the Suncheon Industrial Area, Republic of Korea
Authors: Seoyeong Choe , Yu Geun-Hye , Song Myoungki , Oh Sea-Ho , Jeon Hajeong , Ko Dong-Hoon , Bae Min-Suk
Published: November 2024

PM2.5 samples were collected in Suncheon during the summer (June 2-11, 2023) and winter (January 15-21, 2024). The chemical composition analysis included carbonaceous components (OC, EC), secondary ionic components (NH4+, NO3-, SO42-), dithiothreitol - oxidative potential (QDTT-OP), and volatile organic compounds. Results showed higher summer PM2.5 concentrations due to photochemical reactions and higher winter concentrations from heating and stable atmospheric conditions. The OC/EC ratio indicated greater secondary organic aerosol formation in summer. Oxidative potential (QDTT-OPv) was higher in summer (0.12 µM/m³) than winter (0.09 µM/m³), correlating strongly with OC in summer. Health risk assessment of BTEX revealed higher concentrations in winter, with benzene as the primary contributor to lifetime cancer risk (LTCR). The cumulative hazard quotient (HQ) was higher in winter, indicating increased non-carcinogenic risk. The study highlighted that oxidative potential is more influenced by chemical composition than physical characteristics, suggesting that regulating PM2.5 concentration alone may be insufficient. VOCs, as precursors of SOA, showed a positive correlation with QDTT-OPv, with benzene exhibiting the strongest correlation in winter. These findings emphasize the need for targeted management of specific PM2.5 components to mitigate health risks effectively.
New MiniPromoter Ple389 (ADORA2A) Drives Selective Expression in Medium Spiny Neurons in Mice and Non-human Primates
Authors: Gomes Alissandra de Moura , Petkau Terri L. , Korecki Andrea J. , Fornes Oriol , Galvan Adriana , Lu Ge , Hill Austin M. , Lam Siu Ling , Yao Anqi , Farkas Rachelle A. , Wasserman Wyeth , Smith Yoland , Simpson Elizabeth , Leavitt Blair
Published: November 2024

Compact cell type-specific promoters are important tools for basic and preclinical research and clinical delivery of gene therapy. In this work, we designed novel MiniPromoters to target D1 and D2 type dopaminoceptive medium spiny neurons in the striatum by manually identifying candidate regulatory regions or employing the OnTarget webserver. We then empirically tested the designs in rAAV-PHP.B for specificity and robustness in three systems: intravenous injection in mice, intracerebroventricular injection in mice, and intracerebroventricular injection in non-human primates. Twelve MiniPromoters were designed from eight genes: seven manually and five using OnTarget. When delivered intravenously in mice, three MiniPromoters demonstrated highly selective expression in the striatum, with Ple389 (ADORA2A) showing high levels of dopamine D2-receptor cell co-localization. The same three MiniPromoters also displayed enriched expression in the striatum when delivered intracerebroventricularly in mice with high levels of DARPP32 co-localization. Finally, Ple389 (ADORA2A) was intracerebroventricularly injected in non-human primates and showed enriched expression in the striatum as in the mouse. Ple389 (ADORA2A) demonstrated expression in the medium spiny neurons in all three systems tested and exhibited the highest level of D2-MSNs and DARPP32 co-labeling in mice, demonstrating its potential as a tool for gene therapy approaches for Parkinson and Huntington disease treatment.
Biofabricated SnO2 Nanoparticles derived from Leaves Extract of Morinda citrifolia and Pandanus amaryllifolius for Photocatalytic Degradation
Authors: Buniyamin Irmaizatussyehdany , Asli Noor Asnida , Ak Rabiatuladawiyah Md , Jafar Salifairus Mohammad , Eswar Kevin Alvin , Mahmood Mohd Khairil Adzhar , Idorus Mohd Yusri , Shamsudin Muhammad Salleh , Rahman Motiur , Mahmood Mohamad Rusop , Khusaimi Zuraida
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the biofabrication of SnO₂ nanoparticles (NPs) utilizing leaf extracts from Morinda citrifolia and Pandanus amaryllifolius for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB). The synthesis method integrates tin chloride pentahydrate with the leaf extracts, followed by calcination. Comprehensive characterization via FTIR, XRD, FESEM, EDX, HRTEM, and UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed the successful formation of SnO₂ NPs, revealing distinct morphological and crystalline properties. Photocatalytic tests demonstrated that SnO₂ NPs derived from M. citrifolia achieved a superior degradation rate of 97%, compared to 80% from P. amaryllifolius, with optimal activity under neutral pH. Radical scavenger experiments identified electrons as the primary active species. Reusability tests indicated a gradual decline in efficiency over five cycles, demonstrating its stability. These findings underscore the potential of biofabricated SnO₂ NPs as sustainable and efficient solutions for dye-polluted water remediation, offering a promising avenue for environmental conservation and resource management.
Halogen bond-modulated solid-state reordering and symmetry breaking of azahelicenes
Authors: Qiu Huibin , Liang Juncong , Gan Fuwei , Zhang Guoli , Shen Chengshuo
Published: November 2024

Spontaneous symmetry breaking plays an essential role in revealing the origin of homochirality in nature. However, previous studies have prevalently focused on the emergence of symmetry breaking upon the aggregation of discrete molecules in solution. Herein, we report a unique solid-state symmetry breaking process of dynamically chiral azahelicenes that emerged in vacuum-driven transformation of halogen bond-woven crystals. Aza[6]helicene with fixed chirality is first employed to co-crystallized with various halides to explore the strength of intermolecular halogen bonds. Due to the weak feature of the halogen bonding, the halides in the cocrystals can be completely removed under vacuum at an elevated temperature, allowing the residual aza[6]helicene molecules to reorder into single crystals. Particularly, the micron sheet of the cocrystal formed with 1,3,5-trifluoro-2,4,6-triiodobenzene directly transforms into tightly packed slim blocks. Further, aza[4]helicene which possesses chiral conformations but rapidly enantiomerizes in solution is adopted to prepare halogen bond-woven cocrystals. While all the cocrystals are comprised by equal amount of P and M isomers, the solid formed after the removal of pentafluoroiodobenzene is found to be chiroptically active. The aza[4]helicene molecules released from the halogen bond network solely adopt one chiral conformation upon reordering and symmetry breaking instantly occurs in a solid state. The Cotton effects gradually increase with the extension of vacuum–heating treatment, indicating a unidirectional transformation of the chiral conformations and an amplification of symmetry breaking during the solid-state reorganization. Precise manipulation for the absolute configuration of the solid-state symmetry breaking is further accomplished by using aza[6]helicene as a chiral inducer. This work provides new insights into the origin of homochiral solid biostructures and expands the pathway to versatile chiral organic materials from achiral/racemic precursors.
Temperature-sensitive shape memory polyamide elastomers with tunable segments: achieving excellent performances and application prospects
Authors: Yuan Chengke , Li Yingchun , Xue Jianyu , Mi Jia , Wang Yu , Toktarbay Zhexenbek
Published: November 2024

Thermoplastic polyamide elastomers (TPAEs) possess remarkable characteristics such as high-temperature tolerance, superior mechanical properties, and the shape memory effect (SME). In the current study, a type of TPAEs with SME is developed by fabricating the long carbon chain polyamide (PA512) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) through a two-step melt polycondensation process. The properties of TPAEs were investigated by varying the PA512 prepolymer's molecular weight and the amount of PEG. During synthesizing TPAEs with SME, the crucial balance of COOH and OH groups was skillfully achieved by introducing biobased butanediol (BDO). The chemical structure of TPAEs is confirmed by FTIR and 1H NMR tests. By meticulously engineering the PA512 molecular weight and refining the PEG domain content, TPAEs are fabricated to elongate at a break of 592.4% at room temperature while maintaining a tensile strength of 23.1 MPa. TPAEs, which have two distinct melting temperatures, exhibit microphase separation between the PEG and PA512 domains. This phenomenon is further corroborated by the scanning electron microscope (SEM) test. Additionally, TPAEs exhibit the SME, which can fix a temporary shape when heated, twisted, and cooled, then recover to its original shape upon reheating, with TPAE230 demonstrating the most outstanding shape memory effect, achieving an average shape fixity ratio of 91.2% and a shape recovery ratio of 94.4%. This behavior is attributed to the fixing force provided by the PEG domains and the entropy elasticity of the physically cross-linked PA512 domains. The findings indicate that TPAEs exhibit enhanced SME in response to temperature changes. Leveraging this property, the development of a temperature-sensitive device holds promise for achieving breakthroughs in the realm of elastic temperature sensing applications.
Origin of the depth-dependent anisotropy in the Earth’s inner core
Authors: Kolesnikov Efim , Li Xiang , Müller Susanne , Rohrbach Arno , Klemme Stephan , Berndt Jasper , Liermann Hanns-Peter , Sanchez-Valle Carmen , Kupenko Ilya
Published: November 2024

The understanding of the origin of seismic anisotropy in the Earth’s inner core (IC) remains a subject of debate and requires examining the deformation behavior of potential core materials. In this research, we investigated the effect of silicon and carbon on the deformation of the hexagonal close-packed iron alloy employing radial X-ray diffraction at high-pressure, high-temperature conditions. We revealed the low anisotropy of the sound velocity (~2 %) of the Fe-Si-C alloy that is compatible with the anisotropy observed in the IC’s outer shells. This finding provides an explanation for the heterogeneous depth-dependent elastic anisotropy in the IC originating from the stratification of silicon and carbon within the inner core upon its crystallization.
Decision Support System Using the Expert-Fuzzy Method in Validating Real-Time Acid Rain Measurements
Authors: Ramadhan Ardiansyah , Chandra Indra , Indrawati Asri , Tanti Dyah Aries , Mendonça Israel , Aritsugi Masayoshi
Published: November 2024

The measurement of acid rain is a very important instrument for evaluating the environmental effects of air pollution on ecosystems. However, the existing manual methods use few parameters, leading to inefficacy and incomplete data for suitable decision-making. A new system for real-time information is proposed in this study, which employs the Expert-Fuzzy method within a Decision Support System (DSS) that enhances the precision and consistency of acid rain measurements. Such improvements include individual sensor range detection, outlier identification, dynamic windowing, and averaging from their integration into Raspberry Pi, an advanced statistical technique. These enhancements improve confidence intervals and precision in the real-time validation of data. From May 7 until June 7 2023, field testing was taking place at two locations (-6.9729594 107.6274528; − 6.969282, 107.6255821) where key parameters like pH, temperature, and conductivity, among others, were being monitored to ensure a confidence level of approximately 95%. The little discrepancies between raw data and validated allude to this system’s precision since after validation, pH readings were 5.99, conductivity measured 14.47 ms/cm, and temperatures showed 25.01℃. The more support for the stability of these measurements from the Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) model, which traces back the sources of possible neutralization pollutants. This research shows that acid rain classification and decision-making can be enhanced by combining expert knowledge with fuzzy logic. Using the Expert-Fuzzy method, environmental monitoring measurements can be made more precise.
YTHDF2 promotes anaplastic thyroid cancer progression via activating the DDIT4/AKT/mTOR signaling
Authors: Dai Bao , Xu Lei , Rong Shikuo , Song Muye , Lan Ziteng , Chen Weijian , Liu Yongchen , Wang Linhe , Li Jinghua , Chen Jian , Wu Zeyu
Published: November 2024

Background RNA methylation, an important reversible post-transcriptional modification in eukaryotes, has emerged as a prevalent epigenetic alteration. However, the role of the m6A reader YTH domain family 2 (YTHDF2) has not been reported in anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) and its biological mechanism is unclear.Methods The relationship between YTHDF2 expression and ATC was determined through the utilization of data sets and tissue samples. A range of analytical techniques were employed to investigate the regulatory mechanism of YTHDF2 in ATC, including bioinformatics analysis, M6A dot-blot analysis, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq), RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays, RNA sequencing, RNA stability assays and dual luciferase reporter gene assays. In vitro and in vivo assays were also conducted to determine the contribution of YTHDF2 to ATC development.Results In this study, we found that YTHDF2 expression was significantly increased in ATC. Our comprehensive in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that YTHDF2 knockdown significantly attenuated ATC proliferation, invasion, migration, and promotion of apoptosis, whereas the opposite trend was obtained with YTHDF2 overexpression. Mechanically, RNA-seq, MeRIP-seq and RIP-seq analysis, and molecular biology experiments demonstrated that YTHDF2 accelerated the degradation of DNA damage and Development 1 (DDIT4, or REDD1) mRNA in an m6A-dependent manner, which in turn activated the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and induced activation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), thereby promoting ATC tumor progression.Conclusions This study is the first to demonstrate that elevated YTHDF2 expression levels suppress DDIT4 expression in an m6A-dependent manner and activate the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby promoting ATC progression. YTHDF2 plays a pivotal role in ATC progression, and it may serve as a promising therapeutic target in the future.
Python-Driven Mapping of Artificial Groundwater Recharge Zones: Application in Dhar District, Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Rathore Ankit Kailashi , Khan Shafia , Verma Pramod K , Chaure Shailesh K
Published: November 2024

In regions with limited rainfall and ephemeral drainage patterns, groundwater is an invaluable resource for sustaining life and supporting agriculture. This study focuses on identifying groundwater potential recharge zones in Madhya Pradesh's tribal-dominated Dhar district, which was declared a 'water scarce' area in 2022 and restricted for groundwater use, even for irrigation. Dhar's geological setting suggests over 95% of impervious rocks (Basalt, Gneiss, and Granite), while aquifer rocks (sandstone and limestone) are less than 4%, poses significant challenges for groundwater recharge. This study leverages Python and open-source tools instead of proprietary software for identifying groundwater recharge zones. The Python integrates various factors influencing the groundwater availability into a composite map and categorizes the Dhar district into six distinct groundwater recharge classes: excellent (about 4.5% area), good (41% area), fine (34%), moderate (10% area), bad (6% area), and unaccepted (about 2.7% area). The Python-generated integrated map has been validated by groundwater level monitoring station data of IWRIS (India Water Resources Information System), confirming the model accuracy. This study substantiate the effectiveness of Python and open-source tools for groundwater management, can provide a scalable solution for water-scarce regions.
Identification and functional analysis of NPR2 truncating mutations in two Chinese families with Short Stature
Authors: Wei Shuoshuo , Li Rong , He Dongye , Zhang Chuanpeng , Zhang Mei , Li Yanying , Chen Shuxiong , Liu Fupeng , Ban Bo , Zhao Qianqian
Published: November 2024

Background: The signaling pathway of C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) and its receptor (natriuretic peptide receptor 2, NPR2) is implicated in the process of endochondral ossification, which is crucial for the linear growth of long bones. Loss-of-function mutations in the NPR2 gene cause short stature. This study aimed to identify and characterize truncating mutations in NPR2 among Chinese families with short stature.
Methods: Whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing were conducted to identify potential mutations. Bioinformatic analysis was utilized to assess the pathogenicity of two mutations. The effects of candidate mutation on gene expression, subcellular localization, protein stability, and protein function were further assessed through in vitro assays.
Results: In this study, A novel mutation, c.2629_2630delAG, p.S877Hfs*10 and a previously reported mutation, c.1162C>T, p.R388* (ClinVar database) in NPR2, were identified in the individuals, and these variants were inherited from the mother and father, respectively. Both mutations were predicted to be deleterious and have a significant impact on protein structure based on bioinformatics analysis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that mutant mRNAs evaded nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) to produce truncated NPR2 proteins with reduced stability and increased degradation. Furthermore, two truncated NPR2 proteins exhibited impaired localization at the cell membrane and almost completely lost their ability to stimulate cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) production in HEK293T cells compared to wild-type (WT) NPR2 (p <0.05).
Conclusion: Our study identified two loss-of-function mutations of the NPR2 gene in two Chinese families and offered new insights on the pathogenesis of short stature caused by NPR2 truncating mutations.
Detection of small-magnitude events using unsupervised machine learning for waveform-based source imaging through grouped time reversals
Authors: Dalai Bijayananda , Kumar Prakash
Published: November 2024

Efficient arrival picking is one of the crucial steps for seismic data processing both in active and passive seismology. We employ the unsupervised Fuzzy C-means clustering to improve the picking of the arrivals of small magnitude earthquake events, and then source location is computed by grouped time-reversal imaging approach by first splitting the receivers into groups and then backward propagating the wavefield. Once the arrivals are auto picked, P-wave signals are identified and extracted from the entire waveforms. Finally, a high-resolution source location image is obtained by multidimensional cross-correlation of the wavefields. The performance of the approach has been tested on a suite of synthetic data and field data sets obtained from the North-West Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir. The estimated uncertainties reveal the improvement of the locations over the conventional travel time inversion method. We demonstrate that these two independent approaches can effectively be used to analyze seismological data sets in a complex medium, and even works with sparse seismic networks for locating the small-magnitude earthquakes. The present approach can be used to locate the seismic sources utilizing the single-component waveform data.
A nature-is-enhancing mindset improves depressive emotions through a chain mediation model
Authors: Chen Yue , Zhang Xiaoqi , Chen Yidi
Published: November 2024

It is widely acknowledged that nature benefits human well-being, both physically and psychologically. However, the role of mindsets in this relationship between humans and nature has not received sufficient attention. This study conducted two investigations to explore the role of mindsets in the context of nature and to reveal the underlying mediating mechanism between nature-is-enhancing mindsets and depression. Study 1 introduced a reliable and valid four-item tool to measure the nature-is-enhancing mindset, which evaluates individuals' beliefs about nature as beneficial. Study 2 illustrated that a nature-is-enhancing mindset could significantly decrease depression. Furthermore, nature contact and perceived stress were identified as mediators in the association between nature-is-enhancing mindsets and depression. Perceived stress had a significant mediating effect. This study proposes a strong antecedent variable that explains the beneficial effects of natural contact, providing new perspectives and directions for cognitive interventions aimed at promoting engagement with nature.
O-GlcNAcylation of irf3 by a novel Zebrafish O-GlcNAc transferase isoform Ogtb_tv3 facilitates its sufficient activation and innate antiviral response
Authors: LU CAO , Aoling Xu , Jie Zhang , Hai Huang , Dandan Xu , Songlin Liu , yan Zhao , Jing Zhou , Liu Hongtao
Published: November 2024

Metabolic pathways are crucial for regulating immune responses, yet the specific mechanisms influencing innate immunity in fish during viral infections remain poorly understood. This study aims to bridge this gap by elucidating the role of the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway (HBP)–associated O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) signaling in enhancing antiviral innate immunity in zebrafish. We discovered that infection with spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV) significantly activates the HBP, leading to enhanced protein O-GlcNAcylation in zebrafish. We identified a novel O-GlcNAc transferase isoform, Ogtb_tv3, essential for the O-GlcNAcylation of the transcription factor IRF3. This modification is crucial for the full activation of IRF3 and the subsequent initiation of antiviral gene expression. Pharmacological enhancement of the HBP - O-GlcNAc pathway further potentiated these antiviral responses, directly linking metabolic activity to immune efficacy. Our findings demonstrate that O-GlcNAcylation mediated by Ogtb_tv3 within the HBP is critical for activating IRF3 during SVCV infection, thus enhancing the immune response in zebrafish. This study highlights the significant role of glucose metabolism in antiviral innate immunity and suggests targeting metabolic pathways as a novel therapeutic strategy against viral infections.
Dietary Influences on Osteoporosis: Insights from a Natural Population Cohort in Sichuan, China
Authors: Yang Rong , Zhao Qian , Yao Yi , Li Jieling , Fu Wenjun , Wu Miaomiao , Xiong Jing
Published: November 2024

Purpose:This study aims to assess the impact of dietary factors on osteoporosis prevalence within a natural population in Sichuan, China, to establish a foundation for future dietary intervention strategies.
Methods: Participants were drawn from a prospective natural population cohort study centered in Sichuan, selecting representative sites and employing cluster random sampling to execute cohort projects across various locations in Southwestern China. This approach enabled the collection of data from populations with diverse geographical, economic and cultural characteristics, and ethnicities. Based on baseline data, univariate and multivariate ordinal logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of diet on the prevalence of osteoporosis.
Results: The study included 1,099 participants, with an average age of 63.1 years, comprising 345 men (31.39%) and 754 women (68.61%), Of these, 277 individuals (25.20%) were diagnosed with osteoporosis. After adjusting for age and gender, preliminary analysis revealed that consuming tea once to twice a week was associated with a reduced risk of osteoporosis (RR=0.645, 95% CI 0.418-0.997), while no other dietary factors demonstrated a significant effect. Further analysis indicated that among women, consuming tea once to twice a week was associated with a reduced risk of osteoporosis (RR=0.576, 95% CI 0.353-0.940). Among men, a preference for spicy foods was linked to a lower risk of osteoporosis (RR=0.110, 95% CI 0.014-0.885), and the use of olive oil as a dietary oil was identified as a potential risk factor for osteoporosis (RR=36.120, 95% CI 2.231-584.820).
Conclusion: This study, leveraging a natural population cohort in the Sichuan area, explores the influence of diet on osteoporosis. The findings suggest that in women, drinking tea once to twice a week may serve as a preventative measure against osteoporosis, whereas in men, a preference for spicy flavors can provide similar protection and using olive oil as a dietary oil was identified as a risk factor for osteoporosis.
Trial registration number: ChiCTR1900024623
Date of registration: 2019-07-19
PCCA: Point Cloud Clusters Attention
Authors: Dmitrii Perfilev , Zhang Xijun , Fei Tan
Published: November 2024

In this research, a K-means clustering algorithm and attention mechanism is used to improve object classification by preprocessing 3D point clouds. Robotics and autonomous driving depend heavily on point clouds obtained by LiDAR. Big data quantities and noise present challenges for traditional approaches. Post-clustering, the data is processed by an improved PointNet + + neural network with embedded attention mechanisms for object classification. PointNet + + effectively classifies objects in complicated scenarios by utilizing a hierarchical structure and attention methods to concentrate on the most pertinent portions of the input. Tests carried out on the KITTI dataset show that pre-clustering improves classification accuracy while cutting down on processing time. As evidence of the effectiveness of the suggested strategy, the findings show a notable improvement in performance measures. This approach holds potential for creating more reliable and effective perception systems for self-driving cars and other applications involving 3D data analysis. The combination of PointNet + + and K-means clustering offers improvements in speed and accuracy while reducing computing costs, addressing important issues in managing large-scale 3D point cloud data. This study highlights the potential of cluster analysis as a preprocessing step to optimize neural network-based systems, paving the way for more reliable and faster processing of 3D point cloud data in real-world scenarios.
Development of a 18F-FDG PET/CT-based Radiomics Model for Predicting Axillary Lymph Node Metastasis in Breast Cancer
Authors: Yu Zhen , Dong Ke , Huang Qifeng
Published: November 2024

Background
Axillary lymph node metastasis (ALNM) status is an important factor for the determination of the therapeutic strategies and breast cancer prognosis. In our study, we investigate whether radiomics features from 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose(18F-FDG) positron emission tomography /computed tomography (PET/CT), combined with clinical or pathological characteristics, provide a higher predictive value of ALNM.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was performed on 78 female patients who underwent preoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT scans at Jinhua Central Hospital from August 2015 to July 2024, with a mean age of 53.60 ± 12.49 years (range: 35–84 years). The cases were randomly divided into a training cohort (46 cases) and a testing cohort (32 cases) in a 6:4 ratio. All patients' PET/CT and clinical pathological features were analyzed, and radiomics features were extracted from the PET/CT images. Subsequently, we developed radiomics, clinical, and combined radiomics-clinical models. We also assessed the performance of these three models in predicting ALNM. The Python stats models package (version 0.13.2) was used for statistical analysis.
Results
For the three features radiomics model and combined model in the training cohort, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.922 and 0.931, which were both higher than that of the traditional clinical feature model (AUC = 0.917). The AUC values for the three models in the testing cohort were 0.802, 0.821, and 0.778. For predicting ALNM across all cohorts, the radiomics model and the combined model showed clinical benefit in the decision curve analysis (DCA).
Conclusion
The PET/CT-based radiomics model demonstrated strong efficacy in predicting ALNM for breast cancer and has clinical application value.
Enhancing Efficiency in MCQ Evaluation: Integrating Voice-to-Text and Excel Automation in Medical Education
Authors: . sankalp , Sharma Hanjabam Barun , Nidhi Thakur
Published: November 2024

Background: Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) are widely used in medical education due to their efficiency in assessing a broad range of knowledge. However, traditional grading of MCQs can be labor-intensive and prone to human error, especially in large volumes. With increasing class sizes, there is a growing need for more efficient and accurate grading systems.
Objective: This study evaluates the effectiveness of integrating voice-to-text technology (VTT) and Excel automation to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of MCQ grading in medical education.
Methods: A total of 3,000 simulated MCQ responses, representative of a typical medical education setting, were evaluated using both manual and automated methods. VTT technology was used to transcribe responses, which were then organized in tables using ChatGPT and scored in Excel using automation techniques. Two evaluators assessed the papers, and time taken, error rates, evaluator fatigue, and satisfaction were compared between methods.
Results: The automated method significantly reduced evaluation time to 45.9 minutes (0.76 man-hours) compared to 194.82 minutes (3.25 man-hours) for manual evaluation, with a similarly high accuracy rate of 99.96% for both methods. Evaluator fatigue was lower, and satisfaction was higher with the automated method.
Conclusion: The integration of VTT technology and Excel automation significantly improves the efficiency of MCQ grading while maintaining high accuracy. This approach offers a scalable, cost-effective solution for medical education settings, particularly in resource-limited environments. Future research could expand this method to other types of assessments and explore additional automation tools to further enhance educational evaluation processes.
Combined effects of future climate and land use change on mosquitoes: The distribution of Culex pipiens under One Health scenarios in the Netherlands
Authors: Krol Louie , Dellar Martha , Ibáñez-Justicia Adolfo , Schrier Gerard van der , Schrama Maarten , Geerling Gertjan W. , Bodegom Peter M. van
Published: November 2024

Background: The world is experiencing rapid anthropogenic-driven changes in climate, biodiversity, and pollution. While most insect species are declining due to these changes, disease-transmitting mosquitoes, might thrive. However, the quantitative impacts of these changes on mosquito populations are not well understood. Our study aims to evaluate the individual and combined effects of climate and land use/cover related factors on the potential future spatiotemporal distribution of Culex pipiens in the Netherlands for four One Health change scenarios
Methods: We developed a random forest species distribution model, trained and cross-validated by Cx. pipiens trapping data as the response variable and climate and land use/cover related factors as explanatory variables. We used this model to estimate the spatiotemporal distribution of Cx. pipiens for previously established One Health scenarios and disentangled and evaluated the effects of climate and land use/cover changes.
Results: Our results reveal that climatic factors are the main predictor underlying the temporal distribution of Cx. pipiens, while land use/cover factors shape their spatial distribution. Under One Health scenarios with greater levels of climate change, our results indicate a lengthening of the period that Cx. pipiens occurs and sustained high abundances during the summer months. Furthermore, our results suggest that land use/cover might mitigate the effects of climate change.
Conclusions: Our study underscores the complex interplay of climate and land use/cover changes on the spatiotemporal distributions of Cx. pipiens, emphasizing the need to simultaneously consider climate and land use/cover impacts when adapting to Cx. pipiens related risks. Especially, the negative impact of increasing tree cover on mosquito abundance linked with targeted larval control might be an interesting avenue to explore.
Rapid growth of a benign left atrial myxoma
Authors: Yates Martin , Lee Michelle , Wong Kit , Sheikh Amir
Published: November 2024

Rapid growth of a left atrial myxoma was demonstrated in a patient who showed no echocardiographic evidence of the tumour when she was admitted for an atrial fibrillation catheter ablation. Eighteen months later, she presented with temporary visual disturbance, and transthoracic echocardiography showed a 35 x 25 x 20 mm left atrial myxoma. This was excised en-bloc and the histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of benign myxoma.