bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term Coreflood Testing with Biopolymers—A Laboratory Investigation Showing How Return Permeability Improves From 0 to 100 Percent by Getting a Critical Parameter Right
Authors: Howard S. , TX Montogomery,
Published: February 2024

A series of long-term coreflood tests has shown the importance of considering the self-breaking rate of biopolymers when designing coreflood tests of low-solids and solids-free brine-based drilling and completion fluids that naturally contaminate the core plug with biopolymers during testing.

The tests were conducted with a solids-free potassium formate brine–based reservoir drilling fluid, formulated with xanthan gum and starch, which when exposed to overbalanced pressure, invaded deep into the core plug. The coreflood test simulated filtrate invasion into a water-saturated formation while drilling an injection well. In this scenario the core plug was initially 100% saturated with formation water, and return permeability was measured by injecting formation water through the core in the same direction as the test fluid filtrate invasion.

Testing was conducted at two temperatures, 121 and 149°C (250 and 300°F). At both test temperatures there was a very good correlation between the cleanup or permeability recovery rate of the core plug and the biopolymer self-breaking rates, which had been measured in an earlier study. Due to the low cleanup rate at the lowest temperature, this test was terminated as soon as the cleanup rate was fully established, and the testing was continued at the higher temperature until the permeability had reached close to 100% of its initial value.

The initial 49-hours cleanup with formation water at 121°C (250°F) resulted in a return permeability to formation water of only 3.8%, explaining why laboratory coreflood tests with low-solids/solids-free brine-based drilling and completion fluids containing biopolymeric additives are generally unable to reproduce or predict the excellent well performance the same fluids deliver in the field after days, weeks, or months of steady clean-up.

The results also give us useful insights into what to expect when such fluids are used to drill injection wells. Although the biopolymer self-breaking rate is much higher in the low-salinity injection water, it takes time for biopolymers to break down enough in the protective ionic environment of the formate brine for the filtrate to be diluted and displaced locally by the flow of injection water.

The desire to reduce fluid screening and qualification costs unfortunately often means that reservoir drilling and completion fluid selection decisions are based on the results of short-term coreflood tests. This may be the correct procedure for fluids that cause permanent intractable damage from solids plugging. However, for solids-free or low-solids fluids containing self-breaking biopolymers, relying on such short-term tests can mean that the wrong fluid selection decisions are made.
Nanofluids as a Promising Solution for Stabilizing Asphaltenes and Improving Oil Recovery in Mature Fields
Authors: Cardenas J. C. , Jaimes M. G , Castillo R. , Dorado R. , Patiño J. C. , Prada A. , Galvis H. , Conde O. R.
Published: February 2024

The objectives of this study are to investigate the potential of nanofluids in stabilizing asphaltenes and enhancing oil recovery in mature fields. The research involves evaluating nanofluid colloid stability, characterizing formation fluid properties, assessing nanofluid-crude oil interaction, and examining its interaction with the rock matrix. By addressing these objectives, we contribute to understanding the practical application of nanofluids in mitigating asphaltene challenges and improving oil production in mature fields.

The overall approach of this study involves conducting a series of experimental evaluations. The colloid stability of the nanofluid is tested to ensure its effectiveness in inhibiting asphaltenes. Formation fluids are characterized using techniques such as the Advanced Solid Content Instrument (ASCI), Oliensis analysis, rheology measurements, percentage of basic sediment and water (%BS&W) analysis, and physicochemical analysis of the formation water. Fluid-fluid evaluation is performed to assess the interaction between the nanofluid and the crude oil. Rock-fluid evaluation is conducted to examine the alteration of wettability and its impact on oil recovery.

The experimental evaluation of the nanofluid yielded significant findings. The nanofluid exhibited exceptional colloid stability, effectively inhibiting asphaltenes with an impressive 18.0% inhibition rate. Notably, the interaction between the nanofluid and the crude oil induced wettability alterations, resulting in a remarkable 31.5% increase in the recovery factor compared to the damaged porous medium condition. These results highlight the promising potential of nanofluids for stabilizing asphaltenes and enhancing oil recovery in mature fields. The findings from this study contribute valuable insights into the practical application of nanotechnology within the petroleum industry, paving the way for improved strategies and solutions to overcome asphaltene-related challenges in oil production processes.

This study explores the novel application of nanofluids for stabilizing asphaltenes in oil production. It emphasizes the unique properties of nanoparticles, including their high surface area-to-mass ratio and magnetic properties, enabling effective adsorption and inhibition mechanisms. The research also demonstrates wettability alterations and the formation of a repulsive force between crude oil particles and reservoir rock, impacting oil recovery.
Stimulation of M2 Macrophage Polarization and Presentation of Tumor Antigens by Hybrid Hydrogel Based on Lysate of M1 Macrophages and Tumor Cells for Activation of Anti-Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Yingli Luo , Chen Haha , Yu Xiaoming
Published: February 2024

Tumor therapy remains a major challenge in modern medicine. In recent years, autologous cell-derived hydrogels have gained significant attention as an innovative treatment strategy and have been extensively investigated for their potential applications in tumor immunotherapy. They not only directly interact with cells but also provide an ideal scaffold structure, facilitating the restoration of tumor tissue to a normal state. Moreover, hydrogels demonstrate excellent drug loading capacity for targeted delivery of anti-tumor drugs, thereby enhancing therapeutic efficacy. As they are derived from the patient's own cells, immunological rejection and safety concerns associated with exogenous materials can be avoided. Here, we prepared the hybrid hydrogel with the combination of tumor cells lysate and M1 macrophages lysate. The M1 macrophages lysate polarized the M2 macrophages, otherwise, the induced M1 macrophages could uptake the tumor antigens from the prepared hybrid hydrogel. Then, they will present the tumor antigens and stimulate the naïve T cells. The activated T cells will specifically kill the tumors. Therefore, the platform of autologous hybrid cells lysate will be helpful for the tumor immunotherapy.
In Vitro Determination of Genotoxicity and Cytotoxicity Induced by Stainless Steel Brackets with and without Surface Coating in Cultures of Oral Mucosal Cells
Authors: Ahuja Dhruv , Jose Nidhin Philip , Kamal Rozy , Panduranga Vinaya , Nambiar Supriya , Isloor Arun
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE: Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that uses a plethora of devices made from myriad materials to manage various malocclusions. As these orthodontic appliances are present in the oral cavity for a specific period of time they come in contact with oral tissues and hence induce cytotoxic or genotoxic reactions. The oral environment during orthodontic treatment plays a pivotal role in causing biodegradation and corrosion due to changes in the properties of metal alloys this warrants special consideration regarding the biocompatibility of different metals used for orthodontic treatment. To analyze the genotoxicity and cytotoxicity produced by metal brackets and coated metallic brackets with polymeric and nanoparticle coatings in oral mucosal cells.
MATERIALS & METHODS: The current study was a case-control prospective in-vitro study wherein toxicity of 3 different types of orthodontic brackets was compared with control groups of oral mucosal cells. Each of the three treatment groups consisted of 10 samples exposed to corrosion eluates from Stainless steel metallic brackets, polymeric coated Polydopamine brackets, and nanoparticle coated Titanium dioxide brackets. Two types of oral mucosal cells- Human Gingival Fibroblasts and Buccal Epithelial Cells were used to study cellular alterations through cytotoxic and/or genotoxic effects of the elutes.
RESULTS: The interaction between metal ions and oral mucosal cells showed no statistically significant difference for toxicity assays between the groups. The polymeric and nanoparticle-coated groups showed reduced cellular alteration when compared with conventional stainless-steel brackets.
CONCLUSION: This in-vitro study shows polymeric or nanoparticle coating of conventional metal brackets offers an alternativefor maintaining healthy oral flora within the oral cavity during orthodontic therapy.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Nanoparticle coatings for orthodontic brackets suggest possible improvements in corrosion resistance and antibacterial properties in oral cavity during orthodontic therapy.
Adverse Childhood Experiences, Brain Function, and Psychiatric Diagnoses in a Large Adult Clinical Cohort
Authors: Keator David , Salgado Frank , Madigan Caroline , Murray Sydnyy , Norris Stephanie , Amen Daniel
Published: February 2024

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been associated with higher rates of psychiatric illness in adults. Neuroimaging studies have previously identified regional volume, functional connectivity, and altered blood flow as a function of increasing ACEs in relatively small samples. Thus far, no study has evaluated a large adult clinical population to identify which brain functional associations may be mediators between ACEs and an adult psychiatric diagnosis. This study aims to understand the relationship between ACEs and adult brain function in a large clinical cohort (N=7275) using HMPAO SPECT scans at rest and during a concentration task, to gain insight into the common brain functional patterns associated with increasing ACEs in adults with varying degrees of mental health illnesses. We evaluate how patient-reported ACEs are associated with brain function in adults, across diagnoses. We then evaluate the risk of being diagnosed with specific classes of mental health conditions as a function of increasing ACEs, along with understanding which specific ACE questions were statistically related to each diagnosis in this cohort. To evaluate how brain function, in association with ACEs might influence an adult psychiatric diagnosis, we performed mediation analyses where brain functional regions of interest act as mediators between patient-reported ACEs and each diagnosis. Broadly, we found increased function in cognitive control and default mode networks and decreased function in areas of the dorsal striatum and cerebellum. We found that having more ACEs increases the risk of being diagnosed with a variety of mental health conditions that generally fall into anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse-related disorders, and depression. Further, we found many of the regions implicated in the neuroimaging analyses are potential mediators between ACEs and an adult psychiatric diagnosis.
Thermoreversibly Assembled Polymersomes for Highly Efficient Loading, Processing, and Delivery of Protein and siRNA Biologics
Authors: Hubbell Jeffrey , Hossainy Samir , Kang Seounghun , Medellín Jorge Gómez , Alpar Aaron , Refvik Kirsten , Ma Yvonne , Vuong Ivan , Chang Kevin , Wang Thomas , Solanki Ani , Rowan Stuart
Published: February 2024

Although great advances in siRNA and mRNA delivery have been made (e.g. with lipid nanoparticles), there remains a pressing need for a versatile platform that can deliver both RNA and protein payloads with convenient processing and storage. Here, we demonstrate a highly efficient approach to forming ca. 100 nm vesicular polymer nanoparticles (polymersomes) that requires no organic solvents by utilizing thermoresponsive block copolymers capable of self-assembling in aqueous medium as the solution is raised to room temperature. This is achieved using block copolymers with a domain that has a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) such that they are soluble in aqueous medium under standard refrigeration (4-7°C) temperature but assemble upon warming to room temperature, resulting in large batches of nanoparticles with predictable size and morphology as dictated by polymer structure. The nanomaterials are designed with charged and biofunctional moieties to drive payload affinity as well as in-vivo targeting, respectively. Both siRNA and protein payloads can be incorporated during warming at higher than 75% loading efficiencies. Payload-polymer suspensions can also be lyophilized into a dry state, allowing for greater hydrolytic stability under mild (4-7°C) refrigeration conditions. This greatly reduces processing and storage requirements, as the powder can simply be reconstituted in cold aqueous medium, then used as described. Here, we selected biomedical applications that did not require removal of unencapsulated payload, bypassing further purification processes and demonstrating a highly scalable approach for formulating nanoparticle-based treatments. Finally, we demonstrate that our system is capable of in-vivo delivery in the contexts of protein subunit vaccination, prophylactic immune tolerance induction, and siRNA interference therapy in cancer. We believe this polymersome platform addresses several challenges to broad translation of nanoparticle delivery of biologics to the clinic, such as scalability, loading efficiency, quality control, and dry storage.
Suppression of MT5-MMP reveals early modulation of Alzheimer’s pathogenic events in primary neuronal cultures of 5xFAD mice
Authors: Pilat Dominika , Paumier Jean-Michel , Louis Laurence , Manrique Christine , García-González Laura , Stephan Delphine , Bernard Anne , Pardossi-Piquard Raphaëlle , Checler Frédéric , Khrestchatisky Michel , Pasquale Eric Di , Baranger Kévin , Rivera Santiago
Published: February 2024

Background
We previously reported that membrane-type 5-matrix metalloproteinase (MT5-MMP) deficiency not only reduces pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in 5xFAD (Tg) mice in vivo, but also impairs interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β)-mediated neuroinflammation and Ab production in primary Tg immature neural cell cultures after 11 days in vitro. We now investigated the effect of MT5-MMP on incipient pathogenic pathways that are activated in cortical primary cultures at 21-24 days in vitro (DIV), during which neurons are organized into a functional mature network.
Methods
Using wild-type (WT), MT5-MMP-/- (MT5-/-), 5xFAD (Tg) and 5xFADxMT5-MMP-/- (TgMT5-/-) mice, we generated primary neuronal cultures that were exposed to IL-1b and/or different proteolytic system inhibitors. We assessed neuroinflammation, APP metabolism, synaptic integrity and electrophysiological properties using biochemical, imaging and whole- cell patch-clamp approaches.
Results
The absence of MT5-MMP impaired the IL-1b-mediated induction of inflammatory genes in TgMT5-/- cells compared to Tg cells. Furthermore, the reduced density of dendritic spines in Tg neurons was also prevented in TgMT5-/- neurons. IL-1b caused a strong decrease in the dendritic spine density of WT neurons, which was prevented in MT5-/- neurons. However, the latter exhibited fewer spines than the WT under untreated conditions.
The spontaneous rhythmic firing frequency of the network was increased in MT5-/- neurons, but not in TgMT5-/- neurons and IL-1b increased this parameter only in Tg neurons. In terms of induced somatic excitability, Tg and TgMT5-/- neurons exhibited lower excitability than WT and MT5-/-, while IL-1b impaired excitability only on non-AD backgrounds. The synaptic strength of miniature global synaptic currents was equivalent in all genotypes, but increased dramatically in WT and MT5-/- neurons after IL-1b.
MT5-MMP deficiency decreased endogenous and overexpressed C83 and C89 levels but did not affect Ab levels. C99 appears to be cleared by several pathways, including g-secretase, the autophagolysosomal system and also a-secretase, via its conversion to C83.
Conclusion
In summary, this study confirms that MT5-MMP is a pivotal factor affecting not only neuroinflammation and APP metabolism but also synaptogenesis and synaptic activity at early stages of the pathology, and reinforces the relevance of targeting MT5-MMP to fight AD.
Dietary change is not a prerequisite for effective biodiversity conservation but reduces socioeconomic obstacles
Authors: von Jeetze Patrick , Weindl Isabelle , Johnson Justin , Borrelli Pasquale , Panagos Panos , Meyer Tobias , Humpenöder Florian , Sauer Pascal , Dietrich Jan , Lotze-Campen Hermann , Popp Alexander
Published: February 2024

The food production system has become the largest driver of biodiversity loss today. Here we apply a quantitative and spatially explicit framework to provide an integrated perspective on how a partial or complete transition to healthier diets would affect different dimensions of biodiversity change and compare the effects to a bundle of alternative conservation measures. Our results show that a decoupling of biodiversity loss from underlying drivers such as population and income growth depends more on conservation measures that address structural trends in land-use dynamics and allocation than on a convergence towards healthier diets. Particularly, as in many countries in tropical Africa and Asia, converging towards healthier diets would mainly involve reducing the intake of staple foods in favour of more nutritious plant-based foods, instead of replacing resource-intensive livestock products. However, even a partial dietary shift would significantly reduce important barriers to conservation, such as higher food prices and imports.
Directional Lyapunov Exponents – the first universal method designed for extended studies, experiments and control of dynamics of complex networks and coupled nonlinear systems investigatoins
Authors: Dabrowski Artur
Published: February 2024

What is most fundamental in oscillations of Complex Networks of nonlinear coupled systems (CN) are phenomena connected with different types of their collective behavior. Patterns discernible in the dynamics of such systems, for instance different types of synchronization, chimera states and others, have attracted researchers since their discovery. However, they have remained invariably challenging in terms of designing methods with which to monitor and control them. In this article, the author presents the results obtained from applying a novel method—Directional Lyapunov Exponents (DLEs) for the purpose of addressing these challenges. Additionally, the application of DLEs in a wide range of contexts allows the demonstration of features of CNs that were previously unobservable using other methods. Thus far, for instance, the state of complete synchronization of CNs has been recognized as entirely unrelated to a chimera state. The use of DLEs has demonstrated that in the neighborhood of a synchronization manifold, the symmetry of the system dynamics is broken and there can be observed new symmetrical patterns that are shadowing the complete synchronization by chimera type dynamics. Moreover, within the range of chimera existence, DLEs have also revealed another symmetry with a symmetrical flow between desynchronized chimera parts. It has also been proved that in the case of two-node systems, the largest DLE is equivalent to the largest Lyapunov exponent – a metric which has been commonly applied in stability analyses in many branches of science and engineering. Consequently, DLEs have proved to be the most effective tool in investigating CNs, as they expose tendencies of oscillators to synchronize, or split their dynamics, long before the system stabilizes. As such, they have the potential to become the fastest method of scanning a system’s parameters or its initial conditions while looking for chimeras’ existence, as well as other interesting dynamical behaviors. Notably, DLEs represent a very universal approach and can be applied in any type of coupled systems, identical or not, complex or simple ones, as well as in monitoring relative behavior of complex subsystems. Another significant benefit of their application is connected with the way DLEs are arrived at. Since they are derived from the real-time state of a dynamical system and the values of the system variables, they can readily be applied in experiments and CN control.
LFHP-1c improves cognitive function after TBI in mice by reducing oxidative stress through the PGAM5-NRF2-KEAP1 ternary complex
Authors: Shao Wei , Wang Shuai , Wang Yuhao , Tang Yuhang , Wang ChengCheng , Zhou DongRui , Zhao XingYuan , Hou Shiqiang , Lin Ning
Published: February 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is recognised as a leading cause of disability and death. As such, timely and effective secondary brain injury intervention is crucial, given its potential to enhance the prognosis of TBI. Oxidative stress represents one of the factors that contribute to post-traumatic secondary cognitive impairment. Reducing post-traumatic oxidative stress can effectively enhance cognitive function. PGAM5, a member of the phosphoglycerate transporter enzyme family, is upregulated in TBI and induces mitochondrial autophagy. This exacerbates the damage further after TBI. Our focus is on the recently discovered small molecule drug, LFHP-1c, a novel PGAM5 inhibitor. The investigation utilized an in vivo model incorporating a controlled cortical impact-induced traumatic brain injury in mice to examine the impact of LFHP-1c on oxidative stress and cognitive function. The primary aim was to discern the influence of LFHP-1c on the PGAM5-KEAP1-NRF2 ternary complex within the TBI context. Our data indicates that LFHP-1c suppresses PGAM5 expression and diminishes the development of the PGAM5-KEAP1-NRF2 ternary complex, prompting the discharge of NRF2 and KEAP1. The occurrence subsequently allowed NRF2 to enter the nucleus following a traumatic brain injury, thereby resulting in amplified expression of HO-1, GPX1 and SOD1. Furthermore, LFHP-1c diminishes the accumulation of external mitochondria in the nucleus, which limits oxidative stress and improves cognitive capability after TBI.
Exploring community perceptions of gender roles as a predisposing factor in schistosomiasis infection in Southwestern Uganda
Authors: Mugabi Faith , Anyolitho Maxson Kenneth , Huyse Tine , Kemigisha Elizabeth , Nyakato Viola Nilah
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease impacts people of all genders and ages. Studies done on gender as a risk factor in schistosomiasis infection and control have not considered what the men and women in schistosomiasis endemic communities think about gender roles as a contributing factor to infection and control. We explored the perceptions of endemic farming (Kyaterekera) and fishing (Ndaiga) communities along Lake Albert in Kagadi District of Uganda regarding gender roles as a predisposing factor to schistosomiasis infection. Methods: We employed ethnographic design and conducted 10 key informant interviews, held 18 focus group discussion sessions (150 individuals), and made observations of the risky practices in the two community settings. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data collected. Results: Gender roles are perceived by both male and female participants from both settings to predispose the different genders to infection differently. Societal expectations and gender stereotypes are perceived by participants from both sites to predispose both genders to the risk of infection. Farming men, think that bilharzia is a lake-side problem. Finally, drug side effects are perceived to be a concern by both genders from both sites, although the women in the fishing setting would prefer to use herbs and prayers while the men think going to the hospital is ideal. Conclusions: Perceptions of gender roles as a predisposing factor to schistosomiasis infection and control differ according to gender and geographical location. Shared gendered aspects involve societal expectations, stereotypes, and side effects. Developing gender-specific interventions to control the disease, like providing separate toilets, gender-sensitive treatment campaigns, and gender inclusion in decision-making could go a long way in curbing the disease.
Occurrence characteristics and controlling factors of transitional shale gas: a case study from Shanxi Formation, Eastern Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Gu Yifan , Cai Guangyin , Jiang Yuqiang , Liu Ying , Wang Zhanlei
Published: February 2024

Accurate evaluation of gas content is significant for evaluation of unconventional reservoirs and determination of unconventional hydrocarbon reserves. Based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiment on plug samples saturated methane and methane isothermal adsorption experiment of crushed samples, the free gas content and adsorbed gas content of Shanxi Formation transitional shale under high-temperature and high-pressure were determined. The experimental results show that the maximum theoretical gas content of the Shanxi Formation transitional shale in the study area is 2.58 cm3 /g-5.44 cm3 /g, mainly composed of adsorbed gas, and the proportion of free gas is generally lower than 50%. The adsorption capacity of the transitional shale is mainly controlled by organic matter, followed by kaolinite and I/S mixed layer. The free gas content of the transitional shale is mainly controlled by pore structure and is less affected by mineral composition. The specific surface area controls the adsorption capacity of transitional shale gas, and the effect of specific surface area on total gas content is more significant than that of pore volume. Adsorbed gas mainly exists in micropores (< 2nm), while free gas mainly exists in macropores (> 50nm). This study proposes an experimental method for the simultaneous measurement of shale free gas adsorption gas using nuclear magnetic resonance of plug sample saturated methane and methane isothermal adsorption of crushed sample, clarifying the gas-bearing characteristics of transitional shale, and providing theoretical support for the optimization and efficient development of sweet spots in transitional shale gas in the next step.
The potential for in-patient mortality reductions to drive cost savings through decreases in hospital length of stay and intensive care unit utilization: a propensity matched cohort analysis
Authors: IV Joseph Beals , McInnis Samantha , Belk Kathy
Published: February 2024

Background
The economics of healthcare increasingly compels hospitals to accompany quality initiatives with a financial business case. Quality programs are frequently implemented with the aim of identifying clinical deterioration and reducing avoidable mortality. However, low rates of inpatient mortality with a diverse etiology make quantifying cost savings from avoidable mortality reduction challenging. To establish a relationship between mortality and length of stay, a commonly accepted indicator of hospital cost, we evaluated total hospital and intensive care unit length of stay for inpatients who expired compared to similar patients who did not expire during their hospital stay.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective propensity-matched cohort analysis of hospital inpatients who did and did not expire using de-identified data from 24 hospitals representing six health systems across the United States. In addition to demographic measures, the Rothman Index patient condition score was used to ensure cohorts were matched in physiologic acuity. Multivariable regression models were used to estimate the impact of mortality on the primary outcomes of total and ICU length of stay.
Results
Matched cohorts of patients who did and did not expire each comprised 6,129 patients. Patients who expired had longer mean overall hospital length of stay (LOS) compared to those who did not (13.3 vs 8.3 days, p < 0.0001) as well as longer mean ICU LOS (7.2 vs 5.7 days, p < 0.0265). Multivariable general linear models identified a 51% increase in predicted LOS and 33% increase in ICU LOS for patients who expired in the hospital.
Conclusion
As length of stay measures are routinely quantified in financial terms by hospitals, this work suggests it may be possible to translate mortality reductions into length of stay reductions as an inferential step in deriving a financial return on investment for mortality-focused quality of care initiatives.
Navigating Urban Gridlock: Traffic Congestion and Sustainable Mobility Solutions in Abeokuta Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Ogunkan David Victor , Olaleye Eyitayo Olaniyan , Akinpelu Olusegun Peter , Oyeleye Idowu Oyewale
Published: February 2024

Traffic congestion, a prevalent global issue, has entrenched itself as a persistent problem, posing substantial challenges for both residents and commuters, especially in developing nations. This study addresses this concern by delving into the intensity, patterns, and characteristics of traffic within selected road corridors in the Abeokuta metropolis, Nigeria. Data on road types and land use were meticulously collected through structured observations using a pre-designed checklist. Traffic censuses were executed to extract characteristics during morning and evening peak periods. Quantifying traffic volume and capacity in "vehicles per hour" (vph) and Passengers Car Unit per hour (PCU/hr), the study utilized the chi-square test to scrutinize differences in traffic volume during distinct peak hours. Furthermore, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was applied to assess variations in traffic composition among the studied road corridors. The study's findings spotlight Sapo-Ijaye-Iyana Mortuary, recording the highest daily peak traffic volume at 2315 vph, with cars dominating at 4444 vph. Buses emerged as the most impactful vehicle class, exerting influence at 4872 PCU/hr. The Chi-square test indicates no significant differences in vph between morning and evening peaks (x = 0.822604; p = 0.84405). Correspondingly, ANOVA results (f = 3.3106; p = 1.0000) suggest that traffic composition did not significantly differ across the surveyed roads. Recommendations from the study emphasize the enhancement of road capacities through upgrades to meet current and future transportation demands. Additionally, alternative traffic routes, such as rail lines, are proposed to facilitate the movement of heavy-duty trucks.
Calcifediol boosts the efficacy of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (COVISHIELD) vaccine via upregulation of key genes associated with memory T cell responses
Authors: SACHDEVA NARESH , Saroha Himanshu , Bhat Swati , Das Liza , Dutta Pinaki , Holick Michael , Marwaha Raman
Published: February 2024

The ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (COVISHIELD) vaccine has emerged as a pivotal tool in the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. In our previous study eligible subjects were supplemented with calcifediol, a direct precursor to the biologically active form of vitamin D, calcitriol with an objective to enhance the immunogenicity of the COVISHIELD vaccine. Herein we investigated the effects of calcifediol supplementation on gene expression profiles in individuals who received the COVISHIELD vaccine. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated from vaccinated individuals with and without calcifediol supplementation at baseline, 3 and 6 months, and the gene expression profiles were analyzed using high-throughput sequencing. The results revealed distinct patterns of gene expression associated with calcifediol supplementation, suggesting potential molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of calcifediol in improving the efficacy of COVISHIELD vaccine via augmentation of T cell memory responses, innate immune mechanisms such as NOD signaling pathway, JAK/STAT and TGF beta pathways. Calcifediol supplementation in vaccinated individuals also downregulated the pathways related to the Coronavirus disease. Taken together, our findings provide valuable insights into the interplay between vitamin D receptor (VDR) signaling and vaccine-induced immune responses and offer another approach in improving vaccination induced antiviral responses.
Optimizing Superelastic Shape Memory Alloy Fibers (SMAF) for Enhancing Pullout Performance in Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC)
Authors: Umar Muhammad , Qian Hui , Khan M. Nasir Ayaz , Chen Guolin , Shi Yifei , Manan Aneel
Published: February 2024

This experimental study investigates the effect of superelastic shape memory alloy fibers (SMAF) on the pullout performance of Engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC). Various diameters, forms, and surface treatments of SMAF were examined, including Linear shape (LS-SMAF), indented hook shape (HIS-SMAF), and indented shape (IS-SMAF) with diameters of 0.8 and 1.0 mm. sandpaper polishing technique was used for surface treatment. A constant water-to-cement ratio of 0.60 was used to fabricate ECC. Single-fiber pullout tests, monotonic and cyclic, were conducted on ECC mixtures incorporating various polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) content (1.5% to 2%). Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis was performed to study the internal structure of ECC. Results showed that treated IS-SMAF demonstrated superior pullout performance. Additionally, IHS-SMAF outperformed LS-SMAF, whereas ECC with higher PVA content showed excellent pullout performance. This study concludes the significance of fiber characteristics and ECC mix composition in enhancing single-fiber pullout performance.
Risk factors for PTSD symptoms following PICU admission for childhood septic shock
Authors: Burcher Georgina Corbet , Lancaster Rebecca , McCutcheon Robert , O'Dea Lisa , Cooper Mehrengise , Nadel Simon , Garralda Elena
Published: February 2024

Objective
Paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission represents a traumatic event for many children. Follow-up studies have found post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) rates of 10-30%, with a particular prevalence following admission for sepsis. Dysregulated inflammatory responses are associated with PTSD. Sepsis involves a marked inflammatory response but the relationship between this and PTSD have not been clearly established. In this study we investigate associations between the inflammatory response, psychosocial risk factors, and PTSD symptoms following PICU admission for septic shock.
Setting
Children aged >3 years, discharged from PICU following admission for septic shock between 2010 and 2017.
Design
The study was a retrospective analysis of PICU-specific PTSD symptoms reported by parents at any time since discharge via the Trauma and Behavior health screen. Demographics, pre-morbid health characteristics, and exposure to other traumatic events were assessed. Clinical characteristics and blood test results at admission and at 48 hours were recorded from clinical records. Multiple linear regression was used to investigate relationships between PTSD symptom scores and predictor variables.
Results
Data for 65 participants (48% male, median assessment age 8.0 years) was available. Median time since admission was 5.1 years. 30.8% children scored at risk of PTSD at any time since discharge. Symptoms were significantly associated with acute CRP rise (p=0.03), other trauma exposures (p=0.01), and female gender (p=0.04).
Conclusion
PTSD symptoms in children who have survived septic shock are prevalent.
These findings support a possible contribution of acute inflammatory changes, cumulative traumatic exposure, and female gender in post-PICU PTSD development.
Metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses of yellow-flowered crocuses to infer alternative sources of saffron metabolites
Authors: Nemati Zahra , Shahandashti Seyyedeh‌ Sanam Kazemi , Garibay-Hernández Adriana , Mock Hans-Peter , Schmidt Maximilian H-W , Usadel Björn , Blattner Frank.R
Published: February 2024

Background:
The increasing demand for saffron metabolites in various commercial industries, including medicine, food, cosmetics, and dyeing, is driven by the discovery of their diverse applications. Saffron, derived from Crocus sativusstigmas, is the most expensive spice, and there is a need to explore additional sources to meet global consumption demands. In this study, we focused on yellow-flowering crocuses and examined their tepals to identify saffron-like compounds.
Results:
Through metabolomic and transcriptomic approaches, our investigation provides valuable insights into the biosynthesis of compounds in yellow-tepal crocuses that are similar to those found in saffron. The results of our study support the potential use of yellow-tepal crocuses as a source of various crocins (crocetin glycosylated derivatives) and flavonoids.
Conclusions:
Our findings suggest that yellow-tepal crocuses have the potential to serve as a viable excessive source of some saffron metabolites. The identification of crocins and flavonoids in these crocuses highlights their suitability for meeting the demands of various industries that utilize saffron compounds. Further exploration and utilization of yellow-tepal crocuses could contribute to addressing the growing global demand for saffron-related products.
A randomized trial of the impact of symptom monitoring using an electronic patient-reported outcome app on health-related quality of life in postmenopausal breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy
Authors: Okuyama Hiromi , Takada Fuka , Taira Naruto , Nakamura Seigo
Published: February 2024

Background
Electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePRO) monitoring is a useful communication tool for cancer patients and healthcare providers. In this study, we examined the impact of symptom monitoring using an ePRO app on quality of life (QoL) in postmenopausal breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy.
Methods
The free app “Welby My Carte ONC” was used in the study. Patients with breast cancer starting adjuvant endocrine therapy were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to ePRO monitoring (ONC) and control groups. The ONC group reported five symptoms extracted from the Patient-Reported Outcome-Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (PRO-CTCAE) (insomnia, joint pain, headache, anxiety, and hot flashes) weekly for 3 months through the app. Reported symptoms were shared with medical personnel. When serious symptoms were reported, these personnel ascertained the patient's health status and provided advice over the phone. The primary endpoint was QoL measured by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast (FACT-B) at 3 months from enrollment. Differences between groups were tested using analysis of covariance.
Results
The study included 125 subjects with mean age of 64 years in the ONC group (n = 61) and 63 years in the control group (n = 64). In the ONC group, the response rate to PRO-CTCAE was about 70% or higher until week 10. The item missing rate was 0. The ONC group reported more symptoms related to joint pain and insomnia. The difference in FACT-B total score between the groups was − 1.55 (95% confidence interval: -5.91, 2.81), indicating no significant difference.
Conclusions
Symptom monitoring using ePRO early after initiation of adjuvant endocrine therapy after surgery did not improve QoL of breast cancer patients.
Ethnobotanical Study of Homegarden Plants Species Diversity and Uses in Goba District Bale Zone of Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Ofga Benti , Hussien Mohammedaman
Published: February 2024

A readily accessible agricultural plant production system that is close to a home is a home garden. The purpose of this study was to record how different plant species are used in household gardens and how they are managed in the Goba District. Information was gathered from informants chosen on the advice of local development agents and elders in the community. Seventy-one home garden owners were chosen for the detailed study and data collecting on gardens. Out of the fifteen kebeles in the Goba District, the five kebeles were chosen at random. Observation, semi-structured interviews, preference rating, direct matrix ranking, and paired comparison were the methods used to gather ethno botanical data. Data analysis techniques included the use of ethno botanical data collecting, descriptive statistical approaches including densities, frequencies, relative frequencies, relative densities, Shannon, and Wiener index for species diversity. Thirty-one families comprising 67 plant species in all were gathered and identified. Of the 67 plant species that were gathered, 37 (or 55%) were herbaceous, 16 (or 24%) were tree species, 19% (or shrubby), and 2% were climbers. The majority of homes have a home garden, indicating that farmers value gardening and that it affects both household food security and revenue generating. Concerned institutions should promote the involvement of the local population and the growth of awareness through instruction or training on the sustainable use and management of plant resources.
Comparison between Mitomycin-C and Ologen Implants in the Treatment of Primary Open Glaucoma by Subscleral Trabeculectomy
Authors: Mahmoud Hatem , Ebrahim Anas M. , Farag Mohamed Hassanein , Okasha Mohamed Gaber , Elsayed Ahmed A. , Yusef Nehad Mohammed , Sakr Ahmed Mohammed , Gabbar Abdel Ghany Ali El , Ali Mahmoud abdelhalim Ali , Elsayed Ahmed N.
Published: February 2024

Background
Trabeculectomy was first performed in 1968 and is currently the greatest public glaucoma management method in the world (Cairns 1968). However, scarring and wound healing can lead to bleb fibrosis and drainage fistula occlusion, which can ultimately result in bleb failure.
Methods
A randomized approaching comparative interventional research was directed at 45 eyes of 40 participants 25 males and 15 females with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), Patients were distributed into three groups, Group A (included 15 eyes) of 13 participants who went through SST with adjuvant intraoperative usage of 0.2 mg/ml MMC, Group B (included 15 eyes) of 14 participants who underwent SST with a collagen matrix implant during surgery. Group C (included 15 eyes) of 13 participants who underwent SST with both a collagen matrix implant and MMC during surgery.
Results
The study showed no statistically significant variances among the groups concerning age, sex, eye laterality, glaucoma type, preoperative IOP, or the quantity of topical or systemic antiglaucoma medications prescribed. Systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitors were used by six study participants. All of the eyes of the patients underwent straightforward trabeculectomy procedures, and the study group did not experience any implant-related intraoperative issues.
Conclusion
Based on these findings, we hypothesize that the Ologen implant could be a secure and reliable substitute for MMC in terms of enhancing the long-term efficacy of trabeculectomy surgery while avoiding the negative consequences connected to the application of supplementary therapy, such as MMC.
Seeing fast and slow: The influence of music-induced affective states and individual sensory sensitivity on visual processing speed
Authors: Lapomarda Gaia , Deodato Michele , Melcher David
Published: February 2024

There is a speed-accuracy trade-off in perception. The ability to quickly extract sensory information is critical for survival, while extended processing can improve our accuracy. It has been suggested that emotions can change our style of processing, but their influence on processing speed is not yet clear. In three experiments, combining online and laboratory studies with different emotion induction procedures, we investigated the influence of both affective states, manipulated with music, and individual traits in sensory-processing sensitivity on the ability to rapidly segregate two visual flashes. Across studies, the musical manipulations pushed participants towards either rapid or slow processing. Individual variations in sensory-processing sensitivity modulated these effects. Our findings demonstrate that mood, influenced by music, can shift the balance between fast and slow visual processing, altering our perception. These results also emphasize the interaction of individual traits in sensory processing and affective states.
Spatial-temporal characteristics and implications of rural resilience in mountainous counties in China with the lowest wealth gap under the guidance of the concept of "production-living-ecology": An empirical study based on 26 counties
Authors: Cao Yirong , Zheng Xueyong , Tong Lei , Su Fei , Zou Yi , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: February 2024

China has achieved a comprehensive victory in poverty alleviation in 2021, with all districts (counties) across the country successfully lifted out of poverty, thereby providing a valuable model for rural poverty reduction worldwide. Understanding China's experience in rural development holds significant implications for promoting poverty reduction efforts in other countries globally. This paper constructs a theoretical framework to analyze rural resilience based on the distinctive concept of production-living-ecology that characterizes rural construction in China. Furthermore, it examines 26 mountainous counties within Chinese provinces exhibiting minimal disparities between urban and rural wealth as case studies. The vertical and horizontal Scatter Degree method is employed to assess the level of rural resilience within these counties, while spatial autocorrelation and obstacle degree models are utilized to identify spatial heterogeneity and key influencing factors affecting their resilience. The findings are as follows: firstly, the overall resilience level of the villages in the case area is higher. Secondly, there exists a spatial differentiation pattern of "higher in the northern region and lower in the southern region" regarding rural resilience among 26 counties in the case area, with a significant spatial agglomeration effect. Thirdly, the main obstacles influencing rural resilience level in the case area include proportion of non-agricultural employment, scale of agricultural land, mobile phone penetration rate, and residents' living standards.