bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Application Potential of Artificial Intelligence and Numerical Simulation in the Research and Formulation Design of Drilling Fluid Gel Performance
Authors: Sheng Keming , He Yinbo , Du Mingliang , Jiang Guancheng
Published: June 2024

Drilling fluid is pivotal for efficient drilling. However, the gelation performance of drilling fluids is influenced by various complex factors, and traditional methods are inefficient and costly. Artificial intelligence and numerical simulation technologies have become transformative tools in various disciplines. This work reviews the application of four artificial intelligence techniques—expert systems, artificial neural networks (ANNs), support vector machines (SVMs), and genetic algorithms—and three numerical simulation techniques—computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and Monte Carlo simulations—in drilling fluid design and performance optimization. It analyzes the current issues in these studies, pointing out that challenges in applying these two technologies to drilling fluid gelation performance research include difficulties in obtaining field data and overly idealized model assumptions. From the literature review, it can be estimated that 52.0% of the papers are related to ANNs. Leakage issues are the primary concern for practitioners studying drilling fluid gelation performance, accounting for over 17% of research in this area. Based on this, and in conjunction with the technical requirements of drilling fluids and the development needs of drilling intelligence theory, three development directions are proposed: (1) Emphasize feature engineering and data preprocessing to explore the application potential of interpretable artificial intelligence. (2) Establish channels for open access to data or large-scale oil and gas field databases. (3) Conduct in-depth numerical simulation research focusing on the microscopic details of the spatial network structure of drilling fluids, reducing or even eliminating data dependence.
Genetic Variants in KNDy Pathway Lack Association with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency in Mexican Women: A Sequencing-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Ruiz Aidet , Ramos Luis
Published: June 2024

Previous studies have demonstrated the essential role of the Kisspeptin/Neurokinin B/Dynorphin A (KNDy) pathway in female reproductive biology by regulating the activity of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. Identified loss-of-function mutations in these genes are linked to various reproductive disorders. This study investigated genetic disorders linked to mutations in the KNDy genes related to premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). A cohort of 14 Mexican POI patients underwent genetic screening using PCR-SSCP and Sanger sequencing, assessing the genetic variations’ impact on protein function thereafter using multiple in silico tools. The PCR excluded extensive deletions, insertions, and duplications, while SSCP detected five genetic variants. Variations occurred in the KISS1 (c.58G>A and c.242C>G), KISS1R (c.1091A>T), PDYN (c.600C>T), and OPRK1 (c.36G>T) genes, whereas no genetic anomalies were found in NK3/NK3R genes. Each single-nucleotide variant underwent genotyping using PCR-SSCP in 100 POI-free subjects. Their allelic frequencies paralleled the patient group. These observations indicate that allelic variations in the KNDy genes may not contribute to POI etiology. Hence, screening for mutations in KNDy genes should not be a part of the diagnostic protocol for POI.
Reverse Phenotyping after Whole-Exome Sequencing in Children with Developmental Delay/Intellectual Disability—An Exception or a Necessity?
Authors: Ilic Nikola , Maric Nina , Maver Ales , Armengol Lluis , Kravljanac Ruzica , Cirkovic Jana , Krstic Jovana , Radivojevic Danijela , Cirkovic Sanja , Ostojic Slavica , Krasic Stasa , Paripovic Aleksandra , Vukomanovic Vladislav , Peterlin Borut , Maric Gorica , Sarajlija Adrijan
Published: June 2024

This study delves into the diagnostic yield of whole-exome sequencing (WES) in pediatric patients presenting with developmental delay/intellectual disability (DD/ID), while also exploring the utility of Reverse Phenotyping (RP) in refining diagnoses. A cohort of 100 pediatric patients underwent WES, yielding a diagnosis in 66% of cases. Notably, RP played a significant role in cases with negative prior genetic testing, underscoring its significance in complex diagnostic scenarios. The study revealed a spectrum of genetic conditions contributing to DD/ID, illustrating the heterogeneity of etiological factors. Despite challenges, WES demonstrated effectiveness, particularly in cases with metabolic abnormalities. Reverse phenotyping was indicated in half of the patients with positive WES findings. Neural network models exhibited moderate-to-exceptional predictive abilities for aiding in patient selection for WES and RP. These findings emphasize the importance of employing comprehensive genetic approaches and RP in unraveling the genetic underpinnings of DD/ID, thereby facilitating personalized management and genetic counseling for affected individuals and families. This research contributes insights into the genetic landscape of DD/ID, enhancing our understanding and guiding clinical practice in this particular field of clinical genetics.
Ancient Mitochondrial Genomes Provide New Clues in the History of the Akhal-Teke Horse in China
Authors: Zhu Siqi , Zhang Naifan , Zhang Jie , Shao Xinyue , Guo Yaqi , Cai Dawei
Published: June 2024

This study analyzed ancient DNA from the remains of horses unearthed from the Shihuyao tombs. These were found to date from the Han and Tang Dynasties in Xinjiang (approximately 2200 to 1100 years ago). Two high-quality mitochondrial genomes were acquired and analyzed using next-generation sequencing. The genomes were split into two maternal haplogroups, B and D, according to a study that included ancient and contemporary samples from Eurasia. A close genetic affinity was observed between the horse of the Tang Dynasty and Akhal-Teke horses according to the primitive horse haplotype G1. Historical evidence suggests that the ancient Silk Road had a vital role in their dissemination. Additionally, the matrilineal history of the Akhal-Teke horse was accessed and suggested that the early domestication of the breed was for military purposes.
SCAPER-Related Autosomal Recessive Retinitis Pigmentosa with Intellectual Disability: Confirming and Extending the Phenotypic Spectrum and Bioinformatics Analyses
Authors: Sharkia Rajech , Zalan Abdelnaser , Kessel Amit , Al-Shareef Wasif , Zahalka Hazar , Hengel Holger , Schöls Ludger , Azem Abdussalam , Mahajnah Muhammad
Published: June 2024

Mutations in the gene SCAPER (S phase Cyclin A-Associated Protein residing in the Endoplasmic Reticulum) have recently been associated with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and intellectual disability (ID). In 2011, a possible involvement of SCAPER in human diseases was discovered for the first time due to the identification of a homozygous mutation causing ID in an Iranian family. Later, five studies were published in 2019 that described patients with autosomal recessive syndromic retinitis pigmentosa (arRP) accompanied by ID and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This present study describes three patients from an Arab consanguineous family in Israel with similar clinical features of the SCAPER syndrome. In addition, new manifestations of ocular symptoms, nystagmus, glaucoma, and elevator palsy, were observed. Genetic testing of the patients and both parents via whole-exome sequencing revealed the homozygous mutation c.2023–2A>G in SCAPER. Phenotypic and genotypic descriptions for all available cases described in the literature including our current three cases (37 cases) were carried out, in addition to a bioinformatics analysis for all the genetic variants that was undertaken. Our study confirms and extends the clinical manifestations of SCAPER-related disorders.
Significance of Multi-Cancer Genome Profiling Testing for Breast Cancer: A Retrospective Analysis of 3326 Cases from Japan’s National Database
Authors: Kawabata Kyoka , Nishikubo Hinano , Kanei Saki , Aoyama Rika , Tsukada Yuki , Sano Tomoya , Imanishi Daiki , Sakuma Takashi , Maruo Koji , Yamamoto Yurie , Wang Qiang , Zhu Zhonglin , Fan Canfeng , Yashiro Masakazu
Published: June 2024

Background: Breast cancer (BC) has the highest morbidity rate and the second-highest mortality rate of all cancers among women. Recently, multi-cancer genome profiling (multi-CGP) tests have become clinically available. In this study, we aimed to clarify the significance of multi-CGP testing of BC by using the large clinical dataset from The Center for Cancer Genomics and Advanced Therapeutics (C-CAT) profiling database in Japan. Materials and Methods: A total of 3744 BC cases were extracted from the C-CAT database, which enrolled 60,250 patients between June 2019 and October 2023. Of the 3744 BC cases, a total of 3326 cases for which the C-CAT included information on ER, PR, and HER2 status were classified into four subtypes, including TNBC, HR+/HER2−, HR+/HER2+, and HR−/HER2+. Comparisons between groups were performed by the χ2 test or Fisher’s exact test using EZR. Kaplan–Meier curves were created using the log-rank test. Results: Of all 3326 cases analyzed, 1114 (33.5%) were TNBC cases, HR+/HER2− accounted for 1787 cases (53.7%), HR+/HER2+ for 260 cases (7.8%), and HR−/HER2+ for 165 cases (5.0%). Genetic abnormalities were most frequently detected in TP53 (58.0%), PIK3CA (35.5%), MYC (18.7%), FGF19 (15.5%), and GATA3 (15.1%) across all BCs. The rate of TMB-High was 12.3%, and the rate of MSI-High was 0.3%, in all BC cases. Therapeutic drugs were proposed for patients with mutations in six genes: PIK3CA, ERBB2, PTEN, FGFR1, ESR1, and AKT1. The prognoses of HR+/HER2− cases were significantly (p = 0.044) better in the treated group than in the untreated group. Conclusions: These findings suggest that cancer gene panel testing is useful for HR+/HER2− cases.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Profiling of the α-Amylase (AMY) Gene Family in Potato
Authors: Duan Yudan , Jin Liping
Published: June 2024

Starch degradation provides energy and signaling molecules for plant growth, development, defense, and stress response. α-amylase (AMY) is one of the most important enzymes in this process. Potato tubers are rich in starch, and the hydrolysis of starch into sugar negatively impacts the frying quality of potato. Despite its importance, the AMY gene family has not been fully explored in potatoes. Here, we performed a detailed analysis of the StAMY gene family to determine its role in potato. Twenty StAMY genes were identified across the potato genome and were divided into three subgroups. The promoters of StAMY genes contained an array of cis-acting elements involved in growth and development, phytohormone signaling, and stress and defense responses. StAMY8, StAMY9, StAMY12, and StAMY20 were specifically expressed in mature tubers. Different StAMY gene family members tended to be upregulated in response to β-aminobutyric acid (BABA), Phytophthora infestans (P. infestans), benzothiadiazole (BTH), heat, salt, and drought stress. In addition, different StAMY gene family members tended to be responsive to abscisic acid (ABA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), gibberellic acid (GA3), and 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) treatment. These results suggest that StAMY gene family members may be involved in starch and sugar metabolism, defense, stress response, and phytohormone signaling. The results of this study may be applicable to other starchy crops and lay a foundation for further research on the functions and regulatory mechanisms of AMY genes.
Hydroacoustic Monitoring of Mayotte Submarine Volcano during Its Eruptive Phase
Authors: Lavayssière Aude , Bazin Sara , Royer Jean-Yves
Published: June 2024

Submarine volcanoes are more challenging to monitor than subaerial volcanoes. Yet, the large eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano in the Tonga archipelago in 2022 was a reminder of their hazardous nature and hence demonstrated the need to study them. In October 2020, four autonomous hydrophones were moored in the sound fixing and ranging channel 50 km offshore Mayotte Island, in the North Mozambique Channel, to monitor the Fani Maoré 2018–2020 submarine eruption. Between their deployment and July 2022, this network of hydrophones, named MAHY, recorded sounds generated by the recent volcanic activity, along with earthquakes, submarine landslides, marine mammals calls, and marine traffic. Among the sounds generated by the volcanic activity, impulsive signals have been evidenced and interpreted as proxy for lava flow emplacements. The characteristics and the spatio-temporal evolution of these hydroacoustic signals allowed the estimation of effusion and flow rates, key parameters for volcano monitoring. These sounds are related to the non-explosive quenching of pillow lavas due to the rapid heat transfer between hot lava and cold seawater, with this process releasing an energy equivalent to an airgun source as used for active seismic exploration. Volcano observatories could hence use autonomous hydrophones in the water column to detect and monitor active submarine eruptions in the absence of regular on-site seafloor survey.
Rising Incidence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the Asian Subcontinent—An Exploration of Causative Factors
Authors: Bhayani Priyansh , Natarajan Kartik , Coelho-Prabhu Nayantara
Published: June 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), comprising ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), is a global health problem with a worldwide increase in incidence. While previously it was more prevalent in Western countries, especially in North America and Europe, there has been a recent sizeable increase in the incidence of IBD in Asia. This article is a brief overview of the causative factors that contribute to this rise in IBD cases in Asian countries. There is a notable disparity between the Asian IBD population and the Western one in terms of age distribution and gender predilection, and genetic studies reveal both shared and unique susceptibility loci. Changes in environmental factors, including alterations in diet, hygiene, and lifestyle, are thought to play a key role in the epidemiological transition observed in Asia. It is crucial to comprehend how genetic predisposition interacts with environmental factors in order to understand the causes of IBD in the Asian population and develop precise interventions to alleviate its impact.
Bio-Medical Discourse and Oriental Metanarratives on Pandemics in the Islamicate World from the Sixteenth to Nineteenth Centuries
Authors: Ahmad Suhail , Bjork Robert E. , Almahfali Mohammed , Adel Abdel-Fattah M. , Al-Moghales Mashhoor Abdu
Published: June 2024

This paper examines the writings of European travelers, chaplains, and resident doctors on pandemics in the Mediterranean regions from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Using French comparative literary theory, the article highlights how Muslim communities in Egypt, Turkey, Aleppo, and Mecca were stereotyped based on their belief in predestination, their failure to avoid contamination, and their lack of social distancing during plague outbreaks. This paper argues that travelers were influenced by Renaissance humanism, Ars Apodemia, religious discourses, and texts, such as plague tracts, model town concepts, the book of orders, and tales, and that they essentialized Mediterranean Islamicate societies by depicting contamination motifs supposedly shaped by the absence of contagion theory in prophetic medicines. Regarding plague science, this paper concludes that Christian and Muslim intellectuals had similar approaches until the Black Death and that Arabs were eclectic since the Abbasid period. This paper further maintains that the travelers’ approaches fostered chauvinism and the cultural hegemony of the West over the Orient since the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods, driven by eschatology, conversion, and power structure narratives.
Central Sensitization-Related Symptoms and Influencing Factors on Health-Related Quality of Life among Frail Older Adults in Senior Day Care Centers: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kikuchi Yuki , Nakano Hideki , Abiko Teppei , Goda Akio , Murata Shin
Published: June 2024

The recent increase in the number of frail older adults has led to increased attention being paid to care services in communities such as senior day care centers. Maintaining health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in frail older adults is important for managing long-term care. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively explore the impact of physical, mental, and cognitive factors, particularly central sensitization-related symptoms (CSSs), on the HRQOL among frail older adults in senior day care centers. HRQOL, physical, mental, and cognitive factors, and severity of CSSs were comprehensively measured using validated methods. Correlation and multiple regression analyses were used to examine factors affecting HRQOL among frail older adults in senior day care centers. The results showed that the timed up and go test significantly affected the HRQOL among frail older adults at senior day care centers. Additionally, knee extension muscle strength, number of pain sites, depressive tendencies, and CSS severity showed a significant negative correlation with HRQOL but were not significant influencing factors. This suggests that functional mobility assessments and approaches are important for maintaining and improving the HRQOL in frail older adults at senior day care centers.
Awareness of Shaken Baby Syndrome among Saudi Nursing Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alabdullah Amany Anwar Saeed , Ibrahim Hala Kadry , Aljabal Raneem Nezar , Awaji Ahad Mohammed , Al-otaibi Bayan Abdullah , Al-enezi Fay Meshal , Al-qahtani Ghada Saud , Al-shahrani Hawazen Hassan , Al-mutairi Raneem Saleem
Published: June 2024

Child abuse is a global problem. Shaken baby syndrome (SBS) is a result of child abuse, with shaking being the most common form of maltreatment, causing mortality or severe brain damage in infants. A lack of awareness of SBS among current and future healthcare professionals can have serious consequences. To date, no studies have been conducted in Saudi Arabia to examine student nurses’ awareness of SBS, so we sought to assess this issue in an academic institution in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. For this questionnaire-based study, we employed a cross-sectional, descriptive design. The target population was nursing students from every year of study in the institution’s five-year undergraduate nursing programme, who received an online questionnaire during the 2022–2023 academic year. The data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. Of the 293 respondents, 100.0% confirmed that they were not aware of SBS through their nursing curricula, and 62.1% reported not being made aware of SBS at all during their academic journey. The majority of participants were unaware of the negative consequences of shaking a baby. Most were not aware that shaking a baby vigorously can cause permanent blindness (73.4%), postural impairments (56.7%), sleep disorders (61.1%), or convulsions (60.1%). The results of our study revealed a statistically significant relationship between nursing students’ awareness of SBS and both their year of study and marital status. Those at higher academic levels and those who were married were more aware of SBS. To improve nursing students’ knowledge of SBS and help them to better inform the public of this syndrome, particularly parents, child maltreatment topics should be added to nursing curricula in Saudi Arabia, and their importance should be emphasised. This will help reduce the prevalence and burden of SBS nationally.
Lymphocyte-to-Red Blood Cell Ratio—The Guide Star of Acute Coronary Syndrome Prognosis
Authors: Jercălău Cosmina Elena , Andrei Cătălina Liliana , Brezeanu Lavinia Nicoleta , Darabont Roxana Oana , Guberna Suzana , Catană Andreea , Lungu Maria Diana , Ceban Octavian , Sinescu Crina Julieta
Published: June 2024

Background: Beneath the surface of the acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) iceberg lies a hidden peril, obscured by the well-known cardiovascular risk factors that tip the iceberg. Before delving into the potential time bomb these risk factors represent, it is crucial to recognize the obscured danger lurking under the surface. What secrets does the STEMI iceberg hold? To unveil these mysteries, a closer look at the pathophysiology of STEMI is imperative. Inflammation, the catalyst of the STEMI cascade, sets off a chain reaction within the cardiovascular system. Surprisingly, the intricate interplay between red blood cells (RBC) and lymphocytes remains largely unexplored in previous research. Materials and methods: The study encompassed 163 patients diagnosed with STEMI. Utilizing linear and logistic regression, the lymphocyte-to-red blood cell ratio (LRR) was scrutinized as a potential predictive biomarker. Results: There was a statistically significant correlation between LRR and the prognosis of STEMI patients. Building upon this discovery, an innovative scoring system was proposed that integrates LRR as a crucial parameter. Conclusions: Uncovering novel predictive markers for both immediate and delayed complications in STEMI is paramount. These markers have the potential to revolutionize treatment strategies by tailoring them to individual risk profiles, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
Effects of Cognitive–Motor and Motor–Motor Dual Tasks on Gait Performance in Older Adults with Sarcopenia
Authors: Wang Cenyi , Jin Baoming , Lu Aming
Published: June 2024

Background: With the advent of global aging, the health of the older population has become a critical public health challenge. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of dual-tasking on gait performance in patients with sarcopenia. Methods: Thirty participants with sarcopenia (age: 70.73 ± 4.12 yr, MMSE score: 26.90 ± 3.00), including 14 males and 16 females, were selected according to the diagnostic criteria of the Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia. All participants were instructed to perform the gait test in three modes: single task (ST), cognitive–motor dual task (CMDT), and motor–motor dual task (MMDT). Statistical analyses were performed using one-way ANOVA to evaluate the effects of different task types on gait parameters of the participants. Results: (1) Compared with ST walking, gait frequency, step length, and step speed decreased, and the gait cycle and double-support phase increased in patients with sarcopenia during dual-task walking (p < 0.05); (2) Compared with ST walking, gait variability indices such as stride frequency, stride length, and support period significantly increased in patients with sarcopenia during dual-task walking (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The increased difficulty in postural control caused by dual-task interference may reduce the safety of motor strategies in patients with sarcopenia and increase the risk of falls. Future studies should focus on the effects of exercise interventions on multitasking patterns in people with sarcopenia to promote balance function in these populations.
Aging Well and Autism: A Narrative Review and Recommendations for Future Research
Authors: Klein Claire B. , Klinger Laura G.
Published: June 2024

With autism first recognized in the 1940s, the early cohorts of autistic children are beginning to enter older adulthood. Little is known about the experiences and outcomes of autistic older adults. In the general population, “successful aging” is a dominant model among gerontologists and is used to evaluate outcomes in older adulthood. This narrative review aims to provide a framework for understanding and supporting successful aging in older autistic adults. Using Fernández-Ballesteros’ four-domain model of “aging well” we review knowledge on aging and autism by examining outcomes in health and functioning, cognitive and physical functioning, positive affect and control, and social participation and engagement. Findings indicate that outcomes in autistic older adults are generally poor, marked by increased medical conditions, low adaptive skills, elevated risk of cognitive decline, limited physical activity, high rates of mental health conditions, low quality of life, and reduced social or community participation. Patterns of challenges are similar across cognitive abilities and profiles of autistic traits. Challenges and next steps in aging and autism research are identified, and future directions for the field are discussed.
Neutropenia in Childhood—A Narrative Review and Practical Diagnostic Approach
Authors: Katsaras Georgios , Koutsi Silouani , Psaroulaki Evdokia , Gouni Dimitra , Tsitsani Pelagia
Published: June 2024

Neutropenia refers to a decrease in the absolute neutrophil count according to age and race norms and poses a common concern in pediatric practice. Neutrophils serve as host defenders and act crucially in acute inflammation procedures. In this narrative review, we systematically present causes of neutropenia in childhood, mainly adopting the pathophysiological classification of Frater, thereby studying (1) neutropenia with reduced bone marrow reserve, (2) secondary neutropenia with reduced bone marrow reserve, and (3) neutropenia with normal bone marrow reserve. Different conditions in each category are thoroughly discussed and practically approached from the clinician’s point of view. Secondary mild to moderate neutropenia is usually benign due to childhood viral infections and is expected to resolve in 2–4 weeks. Bacterial and fungal agents are also associated with transient neutropenia, although fever with severe neutropenia constitutes a medical emergency. Drug-induced and immune neutropenias should be suspected following a careful history and a detailed clinical examination. Cytotoxic chemotherapies treating malignancies are responsible for severe neutropenia and neutropenic shock. Rare genetic neutropenias usually manifest with major infections early in life. Our review of taxonomies clinical findings and associates them to specific neutropenia disorders. We consequently propose a practical diagnostic algorithm for managing neutropenic children.
Understanding the Regular Biological Mechanism of Susceptibility of Tomato Plants to Low Incidences of Blossom-End Rot
Authors: Abdelkader Mostafa , Elkhawaga Fathia A. , Suliman Ahmed A. , Puchkov Mikhail , Kuranova Kristina Nikolaevna , Mahmoud Mohamed H. , Abdelkader Mohamed F. M.
Published: June 2024

Blossom-end rot (BER) is a physiological disorder caused by calcium deficiency, often paired with moisture stress and irregular traditional watering practices. To understand the biological mechanism affecting the incidence of BER, different tomato genotypes were cultivated in sandy soil and were traditionally irrigated. Nine tomato genotypes were investigated to assess their susceptibility to BER, and the incidence rate varied from 7.1% in “Voskhod” to 57.6% in “Majnat” genotypes. This study also comprehensively analyzed various physiological and biochemical parameters to elucidate their correlation with BER incidence in tomato plants. Our findings revealed a range of parameters positively correlated with BER incidence, including the relative water content of roots, the number of fruits per plant, vitamin C content, and potassium content. Parameters related to fruit quality, such as titratable acidity, peroxidase content, and firmness degree, also showed positive correlations with BER incidence. Conversely, parameters such as total yield per hectare, chlorophyll content, average plant height, and calcium content demonstrated strong negative correlations with BER incidence, suggesting potential protective effects against this disorder. This study highlights that genotypes with higher marketable yields, such as ‘Voskhod’ (65 tons/ha), showed lower BER incidence, underscoring the importance of selecting the appropriate genotype in improving yield and reducing blossom-end rot in tomato fields. Conversely, cultivars with high BER sensitivity, such as ‘Chelnok’ (26.3 tons/ha), require specially designed cultivation management to avoid production declines.
Enhancing Hydrogen Recovery from Saline Aquifers: Quantifying Wettability and Hysteresis Influence and Minimizing Losses with a Cushion Gas
Authors: Al Homoud Rana , Barbosa Machado Marcos Vitor , Daigle Hugh , Sepehrnoori Kamy , Ates Harun
Published: June 2024

This study aims to numerically assess the impact of wettability and relative permeability hysteresis on hydrogen losses during underground hydrogen storage (UHS) and explore strategies to minimize them by using an appropriate cushion gas. The research utilizes the Carlson model to calculate the saturation of trapped gas and the Killough model to account for water hysteresis. By incorporating the Land coefficient based on laboratory-measured data for a hydrogen/brine system, our findings demonstrate a significant influence of gas hysteresis on the hydrogen recovery factor when H2 is used as a cushion gas. The base model, which neglects the hysteresis effect, indicates a recovery factor of 78% by the fourth cycle, which can be improved. In contrast, the modified model, which considers hysteresis and results in a trapped gas saturation of approximately 17%, shows a hydrogen recovery factor of 45% by the fourth cycle. Additionally, gas hysteresis has a notable impact on water production, with an observed 12.5% increase in volume in the model that incorporates gas hysteresis. Furthermore, optimization of the recovery process was conducted by evaluating different cushion gases such as CO2, N2, and CH4, with the latter proving to be the optimal choice. These findings enhance the accuracy of estimating the H2 recovery factor, which is crucial for assessing the feasibility of storage projects.
Environmental Impact Assessment of a 1 kW Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell: A Mid-Point and End-Point Analysis
Authors: Babatunde Olubayo Moses , Akintayo Busola Dorcas , Emezirinwune Michael Uzoamaka , Olanrewaju Oludolapo Akanni
Published: June 2024

Proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are highly regarded as a promising technology for renewable energy generation; however, the environmental burden in their life cycle is a subject of concern. This study aimed to assess the environmental impact of producing a 1 kW PEMFC by a well-detailed cradle-to-gate evaluation, using mid-point and end-point impact assessment methods. The environmental impacts are related to the extraction of raw materials, consumption of energy, and transportation processes. Mid-point analysis shows that raw materials extraction and processing have a significant share in some impacts, including freshwater eutrophication, human carcinogenic toxicity, and terrestrial acidification. On the other hand, the energy consumed in fuel cell production plays a significant role in the impact categories of fossil resource depletion and global warming. The highest impact is attributed to the human health end-point analysis (0.000866 DALY), followed by the damage to ecosystems (1.04 × 10−6 species/yr) and resources (USD2013 6.16844). Normalization results further strengthen the importance of human health impacts and the necessity to solve problems regarding toxicity. The results of this work can provide directions toward enhancing the environmental sustainability of PEMFC technology and present a case for adopting a holistic approach to sustainability by looking across the life cycle of the technology.
Facilitating Access to Mental Health Services: A Stakeholder-Driven Improvement of the Children and Young People (CYP) as One Referral Platform
Authors: Santa Kristof , Dixon Chloe , Ganga Rafaela Neiva , Trainor Gemma , Smith Grahame , Furfie Victoria , Brown Holly
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: Pre-pandemic, child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS) referrals were paper based in Liverpool and Sefton (England, United Kingdom), causing delays in waiting times. The “CYP as One” online mental health referral platform was co-created to overcome these challenges. (2) Methods: This study aims to improve “CYP as One” accessibility and usability and, subsequently, support CAMHS to improve waiting times. The current study utilised the Living Lab approach. We conducted content analysis on completed online referrals extracted from the “CYP as One” platform. These findings were supplemented by seven online focus groups, with 16–19-year-old young people, parents of children under 16, and health service providers. Thematic analysis was conducted on all data. (3) Results: The thematic analysis returned seven themes, namely (i) ”CYP as One” vs. Traditional Referrals, (ii) Gender and Language Dynamics, (iii) Digital Empathy in Action, (iv) the Influence of the Provider Perspective, (v) Age and Social Sensitivity, (vi) Enhancing Access to Information, and (vii) Boosting Admin and Clinical Efficiency. (4) Conclusions: Digital content that seeks to replace in-person referrals can provide adequate support to children and young people who have faced difficulties accessing mental health services.
Types of Racism and Health Disparities and Inequalities among Cancer Patients: An Editorial Reflection of Articles in This Special Issue of IJERPH
Authors: Strayhorn-Carter Shaila M. , Batai Ken , Gachupin Francine C.
Published: June 2024

Racism has been a long-standing influential factor that has negatively impacted both past and current health disparities within the United Sates population. Existing problems of racism and its impact on both health disparities and health inequalities were only amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic allowed both clinicians and researchers to recognize a growing list of health concerns at the macro-, meso-, and micro-level among underserved racially minoritized patients with specific chronic illnesses such as cancer. Based on these concerns, this Special Issue was designed to highlight the challenges of cancer screening, cancer treatment, and cancer-centered educational outreach among racially minoritized communities.
The Role of Social Support and Sleep Quality in the Psychological Well-Being of Nurses and Doctors
Authors: Pinheiro Marta Frazão , Relva Inês Carvalho , Costa Mónica , Mota Catarina Pinheiro
Published: June 2024

Social support enhances the development of adaptive strategies to cope with difficulties, which may affect psychological well-being. Sleep quality has been highlighted as having a relevant role in psychological well-being. The present study aimed to analyse the role of social support and sleep quality in the psychological well-being of health professionals (nurses and doctors) compared to the general population. The sample comprised 466 adults aged between 18 and 75 (M = 43.4; SD = 10.8), of which 272 were the general population and 194 nurses and doctors. Data were collected through a Sociodemographic Questionnaire, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the Psychological Well-Being Manifestation Measure Scale. Nurses presented less balance (also doctors), sociability and happiness than other professionals. Less significant sociability was observed in nurses compared with doctors. The results also allowed us to observe the positive role of social support from significant others on social involvement and sociability and the positive role of the family in self-esteem. Social support from friends played a positive role in all dimensions of psychological well-being. Males had a higher prevalence of psychological well-being. Other professionals and sleep quality show high levels of psychological well-being in all dimensions. Data discussion highlights the role of social support, sleep, and sex and the implications of health professions (nurses and doctors) on psychological well-being.
Changes to Secondary School Physical Activity Programs and Policy after Emerging from COVID-19 Lockdowns
Authors: Chattha Hussain , Duncan Markus J. , Riazi Negin A. , Leatherdale Scott T. , Patte Karen A.
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study was to explore the adaptations that schools made to physical activity programs and facilities, and disparities by area urbanicity and income, during the first school year after the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a convenience sample of 132 secondary schools in Canada, school contacts responded to an annual survey in the 2020–2021 school year on changes to physical activity programs and facilities, and related staff training. Content analysis categorized open-ended text responses, and schools were compared based on area urbanicity and median income. Most schools canceled all interschool sports (88.9%) and intramurals (65.9%). New programs were added by 12.6% of schools, and about half (49%) of schools reported some continuing programs, most of which were sports programs, followed by facility and equipment access. Physical activity facilities were closed in 18.1% of schools, while 15.7% had new facilities added, and 11% temporarily converted facilities into learning spaces. Large/medium urban schools were at greater odds of having made any change to their facilities compared to schools in rural/small urban areas (odds ratio (95% confidence interval): 2.3 (1.1, 4.8)). The results demonstrate the considerable scale and nature of the restrictions in school provisions of physical activity opportunities during this period, as well as the resourcefulness of some schools in adding new programs and facilities.
Generating Urban Road Networks with Conditional Diffusion Models
Authors: Gu Xiaoyan , Zhang Mengmeng , Lyu Jinxin , Ge Quansheng
Published: June 2024

The auto-generation of urban roads can greatly improve efficiency and productivity in urban planning and designing. However, it has also raised concerns amongst researchers over the past decade. In this paper, we present an image-based urban road network generation framework using conditional diffusion models. We first trained a diffusion model capable of generating road images with similar characteristics to the ground truth using four context factors. Then, we used the trained model as the generator to synthesize road images conditioned in a geospatial context. Finally, we converted the generated road images into road networks with several post-processes. The experiments conducted in five cities of the United States showed that our model can generate reasonable road networks, maintaining the layouts and styles of real examples. Moreover, our model has the ability to show the obstructive effect of geographic barriers on urban roads. By comparing models with different context factors as input, we find that the model that considers all four factors generally performs the best. The most important factor in guiding the shape of road networks is intersections, implying that the development of urban roads is not only restricted by the natural environment but is more strongly influenced by human design.
Identification of Typhoon-Vulnerable Areas and Countermeasures in High-Density Coastal Cities: The Case of Macau
Authors: Chen Ziyi , Zhou Long , Li Wenrui , Tang Binglin Martin
Published: June 2024

Typhoons are extremely severe weather events which seriously threaten the safety of people’s lives and properties. Therefore, identifying and controlling typhoon disaster hazards have become important research topics. The spatial–temporal characteristics of typhoons are analysed using the typhoon disaster data in Macau from 2000 to 2020. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) numerical simulation is adopted to understand the 3D urban wind environment. Moreover, the ‘exposure, sensitivity and adaptation’ evaluation model is applied to construct the study framework. To calculate urban disaster vulnerability, the Create Fishnet tool is used to divide the city of Macau into 470 grids. The principal component analysis method is used to reveal the factors that significantly affect the typhoon’s vulnerable areas. Result shows that 31.27% of grids are severely vulnerable. In addition, six principal components are identified, including indicators such as population density, building area ratio, mean elevation and wind speed. This study verifies the feasibility of wind speed data obtained by CFD in the typhoon evaluation model. Moreover, it provides a reliable reference guide for future urban microlevel studies.
Web Publication of Schmitt’s Map of Southern Germany (1797)—The Projection of the Map Based on Archival Documents and Geospatial Analysis
Authors: Timár Gábor , Kiss Eszter
Published: June 2024

This work shows the original projection of a 1:57,600 scale map of southern Germany at the end of the 18th century, produced under the direction of Karl-Heinrich von Schmitt (1743–1805). The sections of the map were scanned and georeferenced as part of the MAPIRE project, and the results are publicly available. In the present work, we use contemporary documents, in particular the books of César-Francois Cassini de Thury and manuscript sketches of the map found in the Military Archive of Vienna, to show that the overall projection of the map is identical to that used in Cassini’s survey of France (first half of the 18th century). In the archive, we managed to find the overview sheet on which—in addition to the Paris Cassini coordinate system—the section grid of the Schmitt map was also constructed. This sketch served as the basis for the compilation and copying work, wherein the existing map works and survey sketches were inserted into 197 sections of the Schmitt map. Thus, the map coordinate system can be modeled in GIS systems using the Cassini (or Cassini-Soldner) projection, with the Paris Observatory as the projection origin. The georeferencing accuracy of using the pure Cassini projection is around 1–1.3 km (at the extremes, around 5 km), which is much more inaccurate than the one used in later topographic surveys. It is considered a combined result of the compilation of the different maps, presumably surveyed by graphic triangulation with measuring tables.
Agent-Based Modeling of COVID-19 Transmission: A Case Study of Housing Densities in Sankalitnagar, Ahmedabad
Authors: French Molly , Patel Amit , Qureshi Abid , Saxena Deepak , Sengupta Raja
Published: June 2024

The differential transmission of COVID-19 depending on the socio-economic status of a neighborhood is well established. For example, several studies have shown that COVID-19 transmission was higher in poorer and denser neighborhoods than in wealthier ones. However, what is less well known is how this varied rate of transmission interacted with established health measures, i.e., face masks and lockdowns, in the context of developing countries to reduce pandemic cases and hence resulted in fewer deaths. This study uses an Agent-Based Model (ABM) simulation to examine the context and impacts of COVID-19 mitigation efforts (i.e., lockdowns combined with masks) on the transmission of COVID-19 across a single neighborhood in Ahmedabad, a city in the state of Gujarat, India. The model is parameterized using real-world population data, which allows us to simulate the spread of COVID-19 to find conditions that most closely match the realities of COVID-19 in the spring of 2020. Consequently, the simulation can be used to understand the impact of nation-wide lockdown on the spread of COVID cases across Ahmedabad as a function of housing density. Thus, invaluable insight into the effectiveness of a lockdown as a mitigation measure can be derived. Further information about how the effectiveness of the lockdown varied by neighborhood, as well as other factors that impacted it, can be ascertained.
Developing a Tanshinone IIA Memetic by Targeting MIOS to Regulate mTORC1 and Autophagy in Glioblastoma
Authors: Shinhmar Sonia , Schaf Judith , Lloyd Jones Katie , Pardo Olivier E. , Beesley Philip , Williams Robin S. B.
Published: June 2024

Tanshinone IIA (T2A) is a bioactive compound that provides promise in the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), with a range of molecular mechanisms including the inhibition of the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and the induction of autophagy. Recently, T2A has been demonstrated to function through sestrin 2 (SESN) to inhibit mTORC1 activity, but its possible impact on autophagy through this pathway has not been investigated. Here, the model system Dictyostelium discoideum and GBM cell lines were employed to investigate the cellular role of T2A in regulating SESN to inhibit mTORC1 and activate autophagy through a GATOR2 component MIOS. In D. discoideum, T2A treatment induced autophagy and inhibited mTORC1 activity, with both effects lost upon the ablation of SESN (sesn-) or MIOS (mios-). We further investigated the targeting of MIOS to reproduce this effect of T2A, where computational analysis identified 25 novel compounds predicted to strongly bind the human MIOS protein, with one compound (MIOS inhibitor 3; Mi3) reducing cell proliferation in two GBM cells. Furthermore, Mi3 specificity was demonstrated through the loss of potency in the D. discoideum mios- cells regarding cell proliferation and the induction of autophagy. In GBM cells, Mi3 treatment also reduced mTORC1 activity and induced autophagy. Thus, a potential T2A mimetic showing the inhibition of mTORC1 and induction of autophagy in GBM cells was identified.
Development of Rapid Bioactivity-Expressed Zr-50Ti Alloys by Surface Treatment with Modified Simulated Body Fluid
Authors: Wu Yuwei , Takai Shigeomi , Yabutsuka Takeshi
Published: June 2024

Zr-50Ti alloys are promising biomaterials due to their excellent mechanical properties and low magnetic susceptibility. However, Zr-50Ti alloys do not inherently bond well with bone. This study aims to enhance the bioactivity and bonding strength of Zr-50Ti alloys for orthopedic implant materials. Initially, the surface of Zr-50Ti alloys was treated with a sulfuric acid solution to create a microporous structure, increasing surface roughness and area. Subsequently, low crystalline calcium phosphate (L-CaP) precipitation was controlled by adding Mg2+ and/or CO32− ions in modified simulated body fluid (m-SBF). The treated Zr-50Ti alloys were then subjected to cold isostatic pressing to force m-SBF into the micropores, followed by incubation to allow L-CaP formation. The apatite-forming process was tested in simulated body fluid (SBF). The results demonstrated that the incorporation of Mg2+ and/or CO32− ions enabled the L-CaP to cover the entire surface of Zr-50Ti alloys within only one day. After short-term soaking in SBF, the L-CaP layer, modulated by Mg2+ and/or CO32− ions, formed a uniform hydroxyapatite (HA) coating on the surface of the Zr-50Ti alloys, showing potential for optimized bone integration. After soaking in SBF for 14 days, the bonding strength between the apatite layer and alloy has the potential to meet the orthopedic application requirement of 22 MPa. This study demonstrates an effective method to enhance the bioactivity and bonding strength of Zr-50Ti alloys for orthopedic applications.