bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Well Placement and Recovery in Mature Gas Condensate Reservoirs Through the Utilization of Pseudo Pressure Approach
Authors: Iqbal Muneez , Mehmood Saad , Azeem Abdul , Hussain Sadam , Zakir Mufaddal Murtaza , Younas Muhammad Avais , Tanveer Atif
Published: January 2024

This paper overcomes the challenge of reliable prediction by capturing condensate banking effects in the numerical simulation models, and to identify remaining sweet spots for infill drilling. In the rich gas condensate, the heavier components in the gas phase drop out below saturation pressure, it causes: (1) Decline in gas production, (2) Loss of valuable condensate components, both of which manifest in the form of expanding condensate bank incorporated in this study.

The case study is of a rich gas condensate field located in the Middle Indus Basin of Pakistan. A detailed compositional simulation model including matched PVT has been developed using commercial simulator to study the effects of condensate banking and its impact in the history matching and forecast. Local grid refinements (LGR) and Generalized pseudo pressure (GPP) approaches have been utilizing and compared in this case study for the improvement of history match along with the reliable predictions. An applied workflow has been developed to locate sweet spots in order to target future development well opportunities in the field.

A comparative analysis has been performed in this case study using LGR and GPP approach to study the impact of condensate drop-out on wells productivity. As sector model was developed for the comparison between the techniques and later on the results applied on the full field simulation. GPP approach was much faster with better history matched results as compared to LGR. The forecast generated using GPP technique when later compared with actual field performance was much realistic. As a result, the model was then utilized to identify infill development opportunities in the field. The developed workflows resulted in evaluating two infill wells with incremental recovery of 10-12% of the field.

The work is computationally intensive with time & resource constraints challenges. Availability of advanced workflow generation rendered the overall execution in an efficient and timely manner.
Strategies to Improve Neurological Safety in Full-Endoscopic Lumbar Fusion Surgery: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Hsu Yu-Chia , Liu Yuan-Fu , Chang Chao-Jui , Hsiao Yu-Meng , Huang Yi-Hung , Liu Keng-Chang , Chen Chien-Min , Lin Cheng-Li
Published: January 2024

Full-endoscopic spinal fusion surgery has emerged as a crucial approach for managing lumbar degenerative spinal disease. A significant concern in endoscopic spinal fusion relates to the vulnerability of neural structures, particularly the risk of nerve root injury (NRI). This comprehensive review evaluates the critical importance of preserving neurological integrity during endoscopic spinal fusion procedures, focusing on multifactorial contributors to risk and effective strategies for safeguarding the nerve root. The review thoroughly examines anatomical considerations, surgical techniques, the utilization of specialized intraoperative instrumentation, and intraoperative monitoring as key factors influencing the risk of NRI. Understanding these variables is paramount for minimizing postoperative neurological complications and improving patient outcomes. The article succinctly summarizes the clinical presentation of nerve root injuries and recommends therapeutic interventions. It also discusses strategies for preventing NRI, emphasizing both preoperative considerations and intraoperative measures. This comprehensive review provides spine surgeons with valuable insights, highlighting the significance of meticulous techniques and preventive measures to optimize patient safety and overall surgical success in the context of endoscopic spinal fusion.
Coupled Baseline Estimation and Trend Analysis Approach to Differentiate Natural and Mine-Related Stresses on Groundwater Levels
Authors: Jackson Tracie , Zhan Guosheng
Published: January 2024

Permitting and regulatory obligations require mine operators to periodically report the spatial extent of mine-induced water-level changes, and to provide water-level monitoring data for review, along with explanations of all hydrologic stresses causing water-level trends. This study couples a baseline-estimation method with a curve-fitting trend-analysis approach to determine all natural, mining, and non-mining aquifer stresses affecting water levels in wells. The approach was applied to the Twin Creeks Mine monitoring network in north-central Nevada, USA. Stresses identified in wells were used to delineate the approximate extent of pumping effects and indicated that drawdowns have not coalesced between mining and non-mining pumping areas. Trend-analysis results indicated that ten study-area well hydrographs have natural trends, and statistical methods identified three of these wells as having statistically significant downward trends. Thus, caution should be used when interpreting the meaning of statistically significant downward trends, because the downward trend may be climate driven rather than pumping related. The curve-matching approach requires the development of a baseline water-level trend to understand expected natural fluctuations. The baseline trend assumes a dynamic-equilibrium natural condition, where long-term net changes in groundwater levels are zero. The baseline trend and trend analysis require a recharge proxy for the study area. This study developed recharge proxies using winter precipitation data, peak reservoir-storage volumes, and metered mine-water discharge to a surface-water channel. The curve-matching approach also can be used to identify and remove erroneous data, reconcile water-level and pumping datasets, or build hydrologic conceptualizations.
Synthesis of biogenic nano-silica hydrogel from foxtail millet ashes husk via greener approach
Authors: Govindaraj c , Sudarsan S. , Parthiban E. , Bharathi A. , Selvakumar C. , Andrews B.
Published: January 2024

Hydrogels are hydrophilic groups of three-dimensional polymeric biomaterials that can absorb huge quantities of biological fluids and water molecules. The hydrogels played an important role in eco-friendly parameters like pH, electric field, temperature, ionic concentration, and solvent composition. The preparation of pH-sensitive hydrogels of foxtail millet ashes husks with the presence of hydrochloric acid to the formation of biogenic nano-silica hydrogels toward a low-cost, simple, solventless greener approach. The chemical structure and morphology of hydrogels was identified using FT-IR spectra techniques, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The swelling equilibrium studies of nano-silica hydrogels at different pH values from 1.2 to 15.2 have been examined. Swelling studies results indicate the percentage of swelling is comparation higher at neutral pH than acidic and alkaline pH. The swelling properties of eco-friendly hydrogels increase chain length from biogenic nano-silica hydrogels. The hydrogel’s adaptableness with pH-sensitive properties may have better probable in greener approach like dye removal, metal ion removal, agrochemical release, and biomedical field.
Evaluation of Infection Prevention and Control Extension for Community Healthcare Outcome Clinic in Referal Hospitals in Tanzania.
Authors: Ngowi Ruth Raymond , Simba S , Eliakimu E. , Hokororo J , Lutkam D. , Kinyenje E , German C , Bahegwa R , Msigwa Y. , Nassoro O. , Marandu L. , Mbwana M , Yahya T , Lusekelo J , Lusaya E. , Mwaisengela S.
Published: January 2024

Background
Project ECHO™ (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcome) is a telehealth initiative that aims to improve access to medical knowledge among healthcare workers (HCWs). Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) ECHO Clinic was implemented from April 2022 to January 2023 in Tanzania where HCWs from ten referral hospitals shared their experiences. The aim of this study was to evaluate the implementation of the IPC ECHO clinic, specifically by assessing enablers and barriers; and elicit recommendations for improvement and further scale-up.
Methods
An explanatory descriptive study design was conducted whereas both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection were used.
Results
A total of 472 (47.2%) out 1000 targeted HCWs attended scheduled IPC ECHO session. Availability of infrastructure; facility management support; good coordination from the national team and availability of internet bundle were the enablers for the implementation of the clinic. Barriers included: lack of motivation among attendees; lack of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) points; shortage of staff; and poor internet connectivity. To improve implementation of IPC ECHO clinic it was recomended to: include IPC ECHO clinic in CPD initiatives; reviewing time for the sessions; provision of incentives for attendees; improve facilitation techniques; improve network connectivity; re-sensitization of HCWs: and scale up of IPC ECHO clinic.
Conclusion
Implementation of IPC ECHO clinic was successfully conducted. Scale-up of IPC ECHO clinic to other referral health facilities and primary health care facilities was recommended in order to facilitate knowledge sharing in the areas of IPC during this era of emerging and re–emerging diseases.
Uncovering the Relationship between Heavy Metal Exposure, Cognitive Function, and Dietary Inflammation Index in Elderly Americans from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2014
Authors: Tang Chunlan , Shen Min , Hong Hang
Published: January 2024

Background
The consequences of heavy metal exposure on cognitive function in elderly adults have been recognized as primarily attributed to the inflammatory response. It is noteworthy that diet can either exacerbate or reduce the inflammatory response. Despite this, there has been limited study about the effects of diet on the relationship between heavy metal exposure and cognitive function.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing data from the 2011–2014 NHANES survey to explore the role of the dietary inflammation index in the association between metal exposure and cognitive function in elderly adults. The study enrolled 1726 participants and generalized linear regression model(GLM), Bayesian kernel machine regression model(BKMR), weighted quantile sum regression(WQS), and quantile g-computation regression analysis(Qg-comp) was conducted to assess the impact of five heavy metals in blood on cognitive function under the anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory diet.
Results
The GLM analysis showed a positive correlation between selenium (Se) and both the instant recall test (IRT) and digit symbol substitution test (DSST), whether taken as continuous or quartile variables.Conversely, cadmium (Cd) was negatively associated with DSST. For IRT, Cd in the highest quartile was negatively associated compared to the lowest quartile. Subgroup analysis revealed the effects of Cd on IRT and DSST and Se on DSST under the pro-inflammatory diet. Furthermore, The BKMR analysis showed an inverted U-shaped curve with the negative effect of metal mixtures and DSST and a linearly negative trend with IRT in the pro-inflammatory diet. Among them, Cd was emphasized as the most potent risk factor, and Se was the most vital protective factor for IRT and DSST in WQS and Qg-comp analysis.
Conclusions
The study suggests that a high-quality diet could alleviate the adverse effects of Cd on IRT and DSST. Additionally, high Se levels improved IRT and DSST in the inflammatory diet. These findings provide valuable insights into the connection between diet, heavy metal exposure, and cognitive function in elderly adults.
Examining Workshops in Reducing Mental Illness Self and Social Stigma Among Asian Men in Vancouver, Canada: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Patel Natasha , Koso Silvia , Morrow Marina , Bryson Stephanie , Jiang Cindy , Lal Rodrick , Patel Nimesh B.
Published: January 2024

Asian men may be more susceptible to stigmatizing attitudes towards mental illness and treatment due to the gendered and cultural expectations created by society, compared to Asian women. This may result in an internalization of devaluing beliefs and discriminatory attitudes towards others affected by mental illness and can delay or prevent this population from seeking professional help. In this randomized control trial (RCT), data from 428 Asian men from Vancouver, Canada were used to examine Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT), Contact-based Empowerment and Education (CEE), and ACT + CEE. Data were collected at pre-intervention, immediately post-intervention, 3 months post-intervention, and 6 months post-intervention using the ISMI and the CAMI scales to assess self and social stigma. Repeated measures ANOVA were performed to determine if there was a significant interaction between the intervention and multiple time points on ISMI and CAMI scores. Linear mixed effects models were performed on ISMI and CAMI composite scores to control for confounding. No significant differences in ISMI scores were seen across all time points for all interventions. Significant reduction in CAMI scores were seen for the CEE intervention up to 3 months, suggesting that effects of the intervention were short-lived.
Interferon signalling and non-canonical inflammasome activation promote host protection against multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Burgio Gaetan , Li Fei-Ju , Starrs Lora , Mathur Anukriti , Tuipulotu Daniel Enosi , Man Si Ming
Published: January 2024

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii are of major concern worldwide due to their resistance to last resort carbapenem and polymyxin antibiotics. To develop an effective treatment strategy, it is critical to better understand how an A. baumannii MDR bacterium interacts with its mammalian host. Pattern-recognition receptors sense microbes, and activate the inflammasome pathway, leading to pro-inflammatory cytokine production and programmed cell death. Here, we examined the effects of a systemic MDR A. baumannii infection and found that MDR A. baumannii activate the NLRP3 inflammasome complex predominantly via the non-canonical caspase-11-dependent pathway. We show that caspase-1 and caspase-11-deficient mice are protected from a virulent MDR A. baumannii strain by maintaining a balance between protective and deleterious inflammation. Caspase-11-deficient mice also compromise between effector cell recruitment, phagocytosis, and programmed cell death in the lung during infection. Importantly, we found that cytosolic immunity - mediated by guanylate-binding protein 1 (GBP1) and type I interferon signalling - orchestrates caspase-11-dependent inflammasome activation. Together, our results suggest that non-canonical inflammasome activation via the IFN pathway plays a critical role in the host response against MDR A. baumannii infection.
Identifying causal brain structures and proteins for osteoarthritis:
A large-scale genetic correlation study based on brain imaging-derived phenotypes, transcriptome and proteome
Authors: Zhao Shushan , Wang Chao , Liu Zhi , Zhu Yong , Ruan Zhe , Long Haitao , Lin Zhang , Zhao Ruibo , Li Yusheng
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to validate the causal associations of brain structures with osteoarthritis (OA) and then describe key causal genes and proteins in brain related to OA risk. To explore the genetic correlation and causal relationship between brain structures and OA, linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) and mendelian randomization (MR) were employed. Then a transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS), MR and Bayesian colocalization analysis were conducted, integrating human brain transcriptomes (N=2,970) with OA GWAS findings (N=826,690). Concurrently, a proteome-wide association study (PWAS) was carried out, combining GWAS summary data with human brain proteomes (N=152) provided by Banner using the FUSION pipeline. Finally single cell RNA-Seq (scRNA) eQTL data were used to explore the causal genes in brain cells associated with OA. The amalgamation of results from LDSC and MR provides insight into the brain structures majorly associated with OA, including bilateral putamen, amygdala nuclei, thalamic nuclei, insula, superior temporal gyrus, among others. In cortical tissue, seven genes (CLEC18A, CORO7, ERGIC3, EXOSC6, FEZ2, SPPL2A and UQCC1) displayed significant associations with knee OA risk, alongside five genes (COLGALT2, GNL3, OMA1, PPM1M and RAD9A) connected to hip OA risk. Furthermore, proteins related to knee (ICA1L), hip (DGKE), and thumb (SNAP47) OA have been identified. The MR analysis of scRNA found that CPNE1 in excitatory neuronsand EMILIN2 in OPCs/COPs were causally associated with knee OA, along with protein levels identified in the PWAS. This exploration of the genetics of OA associated with the brain-joint axis has advanced our understanding of the pathogenesis of OA.
WITHDRAWN: Salvia sclarea L.-Mediated Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles: Characterization, Secondary Metabolite Influence, and Antibacterial Activity Assessment
Authors: Arslan Elif , Yuca Esra , Servi Huseyin , Arayıcı Pelin Pelit , Erişen Semiha
Published: January 2024

In the current study, AgNPs were synthesized utilizing the extract of Salvia sclarea L. as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The reduction of silver ions was confirmed through X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV-visible spectroscopy. Notably, the UV-Vis measurements exhibited distinguishable spectral patterns that indicated the presence of the characteristic surface plasmon resonance peak of AgNPs. Additionally, XRD analysis verified the crystalline nature of the nanoparticles and provided insights into their crystal structure and composition. To further investigate their properties, TEM and SEM analyses were conducted to examine the morphology, size distribution, and uniformity of the nanoparticles. FTIR analysis aided in elucidating the functional groups and surface chemistry of the AgNPs. Furthermore, the influence of AgNPs on the secondary metabolite profiles of shoots raised in vitro in S. sclarea was assessed. The inclusion of AgNPs in the culture media caused qualitative and quantitative adjustments in the secondary metabolite contents of the shoots. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of the AgNPs against common bacterial strains, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, was evaluated. Encouragingly, the AgNPs exhibited moderate antimicrobial properties, suggesting their potential utilization in combating bacterial pathogens. This study highlights the efficacy of utilizing S. sclarea extract for the green synthesis of AgNPs, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of these nanoparticles, from their structural and chemical characteristics to their antimicrobial potential. The environmentally friendly and sustainable approach presented here holds promise for a variety of applications where AgNPs can enhance secondary metabolite production and counteract microbial threats.
Effects of preterm birth and bronchopulmonary dysplasia on infants’ pulmonary function: A cohort study of 117 infants
Authors: Zijin Chen , Lei Zhang , Tao Ai , Yinghong Fan , Ronghua Luo , Cheng Xie , Yaping Duan
Published: January 2024

Background
Despite improved preterm infant survival rates in recent years, the increasing prevalence of preterm birth requires ongoing attention to associated risks, especially pulmonary damage. This study explores pulmonary function impairment in preterm infants using plethysmography and examines its correlation with bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
Methods
One hundred and seventeen infants were divided into preterm and term groups, including 57 preterm infants and 60 term infants. Preterm infants were divided into bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and non-BPD groups. There were 22 cases in the BPD group and 35 cases in the non-BPD group. Preterm infants were further divided into a < 34 weeks group and a 34 ~ 36+ 6 weeks group according to gestational age. There were 26 cases in the < 34 weeks group and 31 cases in the 34 ~ 36+ 6 weeks group. The pulmonary function of each group was measured by plethysmography when the age of the infant was < 6 months.
Results
Compared with the term group, the preterm group had a significantly higher cesarean section rate and faster respiratory rate (RR) and lower values of the ratio of time to peak tidal expiratory flow to total expiratory time (TPEF/tE), the ratio of volume to peak tidal expiratory flow to total expiratory volume (VPEF/VE), compliance of the respiratory system (Crs), and plethysmographic functional residual capacity (FRCp). Comparisons among infants of different gestational ages revealed statistically significant differences in RR, TPEF/tE, respiratory resistance, VPEF/VE, and FRCp. Comparisons among the three groups of BPD group, non-BPD group, and term group revealed differences in RR, TPEF/tE, VPEF/VE, Crs, and FRCp that were statistically significant.
Conclusions
There is a certain degree of pulmonary function impairment in preterm infants, which is more severe in early preterm infants, and in preterm infants with BPD than in preterm infants without BPD. Plethysmography is helpful in the early assessment of pulmonary function in preterm infants.
Study on the Spatiotemporal Variations of Rainfall Warning Risks on China's Conventional Non-Highspeed Railways under the Background of Climate Warming
Authors: Zhang Xiaomei , Jiang Ying , Chen Zhongyu , Zhang Hui , Wang Yuhong , Gao Jingjing , Wu Hao , Huang Weiwei , Qian Ya
Published: January 2024

China’s complex terrain and diverse rainfall patterns contribute to uneven and distinctive precipitation distribution. Over 70% of disasters and accidents on conventional non-highspeed railways in China are influenced by rainfall. This paper analyzes the spatiotemporal variations of rainfall warning risk on conventional non-highspeed railways in China and explores the impact of changing rainfall patterns on the safety and operational order of these railways in the context of climate warming. The study reveals the following findings: (1) Both annual total precipitation and the risk hours of railway rainfall warnings exhibit an east-west and south-north spatial distribution, with more precipitation in the east and south, and fewer in the west and north. Southern China experiences the highest precipitation levels and the most intense rainfall, while northern and northeastern regions have the highest risk hours for railway inspections. Sichuan and Yunnan show the highest occurrences of railway speed restrictions and closures. (2) The peak locations and periods of railway rainfall warning risk hours in various regions are closely related to the main monsoon rain belt and typhoon activities in China. Influenced by the East Asian summer monsoon, the Southeast region experiences the earliest peak (June) in railway inspection and speed restriction rainfall warning risk hours. As the main rain belt of the monsoon moves northward and the subtropical high extends westward, July becomes the peak month for railway rainfall warning risk hours in the Northeast, Central North, and Southwest regions. In August, the impact of typhoon-induced heavy rainfall leads to the peak in railway closure rainfall warning risk hours in the Southeast. (3) In comparison, the complex terrain of the Southwest region results in a significantly higher comprehensive risk index for railway rainfall than other regions, making it the area with the greatest railway rainfall warning pressure. The Northeast region, with lower annual total precipitation, exhibits the highest frequency index for railway rainfall warning risk, implying a relatively strict preventive approach. The Southeast region, with the highest annual total precipitation, has a comprehensive risk index second only to the Southwest region, indicating slightly lower prevention pressure. (4) Against the backdrop of climate warming, the Southwest region experiences a significant increase in conventional non-highspeed railway precipitation volume, frequency, and comprehensive risk index during the main rainy season. Considering the complex terrain and frequent seismic activity in this region, it is likely to be a critical focus for future railway rainfall warning efforts.
Within-Person Dynamics of Job Boredom and Counterproductive Work Behavior: A Latent Change Score Modeling Approach
Authors: Kim JeongJin , Kaplan Seth A. , Aitken John A. , Ponce Lida
Published: January 2024

Job boredom is one of the most common negative affective states experienced in the workplace, yet also among the least well-understood. One stream of research suggests that employees frequently react to job boredom by engaging in counterproductive work behaviors (CWB). However, recent studies show the converse—that engaging in CWB relates to job boredom. As studies on the job boredom-CWB relationship primarily have been cross-sectional and at the between-person level of analysis, the directionality between these constructs remains in question. Therefore, research examining the within-person dynamics of job boredom and CWB within a short timeframe is needed. In the current study, we explore whether job boredom influences subsequent changes in CWB and vice versa. We examined these relationships using latent change score (LCS) modeling with 10-day experience sampling data (N = 120 individuals providing 1,161 observations). Findings supported a reciprocal relationship. Employees’ level of job boredom on a given day was associated with a subsequent increase in CWB on the next day, and the level of CWB on a given day was associated with a subsequent increase in job boredom on the next day. We discuss the implications of our findings and future research directions.
Preferentially expressed endosperm genes reveal unique activities in wheat endosperm during grain filling
Authors: Shi Jia , Zhao Yuqian , Zhao Peng , Yang Hongmei , Wang Chunsheng , Xia Jianqiang , Zhao Zhun , Wang Zhenlong , Yang Zhenyu , Wang Zhong , Xu Shengbao , Zhang Yueqiang
Published: January 2024

Background
Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) endosperm contains starch and proteins, which determine the final yield, quality, and nutritional value of wheat grain. The endosperm-specific expressed genes can precisely provide targets in the endosperm for improving wheat grain quality and nutrition using modern bioengineering technologies. However, the genes specifically expressed in developing endosperms remain largely unknown.
Results
In this study, 315 preferentially expressed endosperm genes (PEEGs) in the spring wheat cultivar, Chinese Spring, were screened using data obtained from an open bioinformatics database, which reveals a unique grain reserve deposition process and special signal transduction in a developing wheat endosperm. Furthermore, transcription and accumulation of storage proteins in the wheat cultivar, XC26 were evaluated. The results revealed that PEEG plays a critical role in storage protein fragment deposition and is a potential candidate for modifying grain quality and nutrition.
Conclusion
These results provide new insights into endosperm development and candidate genes and promoters for improving wheat grain quality through genetic engineering and plant breeding techniques.
HLA gene polymorphism is a modifier of age-related breast cancer penetrance in carriers of BRCA1 pathogenic alleles
Authors: Kuligina Ekaterina S. , Romanko Alexandr A. , Jankevic Tatjana , Martianov Aleksandr S. , Ivantsov Alexandr O. , Sokolova Tatyana N. , Trofimov Dmitry , Kashyap Aniruddh , Cybulski Cezary , Lubiński Jan , Imyanitov Evgeny N.
Published: January 2024

Purpose
Female carriers of germline BRCA1 mutations almost invariably develop breast cancer (BC) however the age at onset is a subject of variation. We hypothesized that the age-related penetrance of BRCA1 mutations may depend on inherited variability in the host immune system.
Methods
Next-generation sequencing was utilized for genotyping of HLA class I/II genes (HLA-A, HLA-B, HLA-C, HLA-DPB1, HLA-DQB1 and HLA-DRB1/3/4/5) in patients with BRCA1-associated BC with early (</= 38 years, n = 215) and late (>/= 58 years, n = 108) age at onset.
Results
HLA-DQB1*06:03P prevalence was higher in the late-onset group due to the excess of allele carriers [25/108 (23.1%) vs. 22/215 (10.2%); OR 2.96, p < 0.001]. For all HLA-I loci, there was a trend towards an increase in the number of homozygotes in the early-onset group. This trend reached statistical significance for the HLA-A [14.4% vs. 6.5%, p = 0.037; OR 2.4, p = 0.042]. The frequencies of HLA-DPB1, HLA-DQB1 and HLA-DRB1/3/4/5 homozygous genotypes did not differ between young-onset and late-onset patients. The maximum degree of homozygosity detected in this study was 6 out of 7 HLA class I/II loci; all six carriers of these genotypes were diagnosed with BC at the age </= 38 years [OR = 6.97, p = 0.187].
Conclusion
HLA polymorphism may play a role in modifying the penetrance of BRCA1 pathogenic variants. Certain HLA alleles or HLA homozygosity may modify the risk of BC in BRCA1 carriers.
GA based Order Abatement Technique for Linear Dynamic Systems for Continues Time System and Discrete Time System
Authors: SINGH BABITA , SINGH NIDHI , SINGH DIPTI
Published: January 2024

In this paper a hybrid technique of order abatement is introduced for Higher Order Linear Dynamic Systems (HOLDSs) for continuous and discrete time system. The denominator dynamics of the original HOLDSs is abated with continued fraction method, yet the abated numerator is extracted using the Genetic Algorithm. The abated system is attained by combining the benefits of the above two methods. The motive of the suggested technique is to conserve the characteristics of the HOLDSs system in abated system by minimizing the Integral Square Error(ISE). The proposed technique assures the conservation of steady-state stability along with the transient stability of the original HOLDS. A comprehensive comparison study is conducted using two HOLDS cases of continuous time system and two cases of discrete time system from the literature. The ISEs, Time-response and Frequency- response are calculated and plotted with the help of Simulink/MATLAB and compared with the other reduction techniques from the literature. The results demonstrate that the suggested technique provides less ISE than alternative approaches and the time and frequency responses closely resemble the response of the original system.
Respiratory Severity Score and Oxygen Saturation Index during the first two hours of life as predictors for non-invasive respiratory support failure in moderate preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Kaluarachchi Dinushan , Zapata Henry , Koueik Jack , Becker Heather , Lasarev Michael , Guthrie Scott
Published: January 2024

Background Noninvasive respiratory support (NRS) failure is common in preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). We evaluated the utility of Respiratory Severity Score (RSS) and Oxygen Saturation Index (OSI) during the first two hours of life (HOL) as a predictor for NRS failure.Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of infants born between 28 0/7 to 33 6/7 weeks with RDS. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to assess whether the RSS and OSI summary measures were associated with NRS failure.Results Among 282 infants included in the study 58 (21%) developed NRS failure. RSS and OSI summary measures in the first 2 HOL were associated with NRS failure within 72 HOL.Conclusion RSS and OSI during the first two HOL can predict NRS failure. Optimal RSS and OSI cutoffs for prediction of NRS failure need to be determined in large cohort studies.
Unemployment and health expenditures in China: New evidence on the unemployment insurance and disposable income
Authors: Xu Zhihao , Tan Jialong , Nicholas Stephen , Maitland Elizabeth , Zhong Yue , Han Lu , Wang Jian
Published: January 2024

Background Research consistently demonstrates that unemployment significantly increases individual health expenditures; However, those unemployed people often exhibit caution in utilizing medical services. The study of the relationship between unemployment and health services utilization is limited, especially in developing countries. Therefore, the objective of this research was to analyse and understand how unemployment influenced health services utilization in the context of unequal regional development in China.
Methods Provincial data spanning from 2007 to 2019 were obtained from multiple statistical yearbooks. Both ordinary least squares and fixed effectmodels were employed and adjusted to control for province-specific demographics and socioeconomic factors, ensuring a more accurate estimation. Furthermore, the study delved into the mediating role of unemployment insurance and household disposable income, examining how these factors influence the relationship between the unemployment rate and health expenditures. Rigorous robustness checks were also performed to validate the findings by replacing the explained variable and using instrumental variable method.
Results We found that the increasing unemployment rate had a substantial impact on health expenditures with a significant reduction observed in China's central and western regions but not in the eastern region. This phenomenon was linked to the dynamics of household economics, which means household disposable income experienced a corresponding decline as the unemployment rate increased, then in turn depressed health services utilization. Interestingly, the study also found that unemployment insurance acted as a critical financial buffer to offset the downward trend of health expenditures, indicating the positive externality of social security policy.
Conclusions Our results indicates that unemployed individuals in China exhibit a conservative approach to health services utilization, which is particularly evident in the central and western regions. During unemployment, policies should be implemented to support the low-income unemployed, especially in regions with an inadequate social security net.
Evaluation of integrated classification data for glacier terrain mapping using the Maximum likelihood classifier (MLC) approach: A case study of Kolahoi Glacier in Jammu & Kashmir
Authors: Rawat kishan , Meer Mohammad Suhail , Ali Showkat , Qadir Junaid
Published: January 2024

Efficiently addressing challenges in mapping spectrally similar classes and overcoming limitations imposed by the restricted spectral sensitivity of remote sensing data is crucial for accurate image processing. In this context, the significance of the Maximum Likelihood Classifier (MLC) becomes apparent in optimizing classification accuracy. This study focuses on classifying glacierized terrain surrounding the Kolahoi glacier in the Kashmir Valley, integrating a diverse set of data sources, including Digital Elevation Model (DEM)-derived topographic attributes and transformed spectral data. The integration of ancillary sources, such as slope, aspect, plane, and profile curvatures derived from DEM, along with spectral information extracted from the LISS-III image using Red/SWIR ratio, NIR/SWIR ratio, and Normalized Difference Snow Index (NDSI), is explored to classify nine distinct glacier terrain classes. These classes encompass a range of features, including snow, ice, mixed-ice, debris, supraglacial debris, periglacial debris, water, vegetation, bare land, and shadow.To optimize the classification process, various scenarios are examined by combining each ancillary data source with the four spectral bands. The MLC is employed as the classification algorithm, and the resulting glacier terrain maps are validated against an ASTER image of Area of Interest (AOI). Notably, the study reveals that the glacier terrain map achieving the highest overall accuracy, an impressive 90.75%, emerges when incorporating the Red/SWIR ratio with the spectral data. This outcome underscores the effectiveness of the proposed classification approach in accurately mapping diverse glacier terrain classes.The successful application of the Maximum Likelihood Classifier in this study holds promising implications for applications such as glacier monitoring and environmental assessment in glacierized regions. The optimized classification approach presented here demonstrates its potential to contribute significantly to remote sensing applications, offering a valuable tool for understanding and monitoring complex terrain features in glacierized environments.
Study on production and utilization of a reference material for determination of multi-residue pesticides in tomato matrix
Authors: Tran Thi Thu Trang , Nguyen Linh Trang , Dinh Hoang Anh , Nguyen Thi Thao Nguyen , Le Thi Phuong Thao , Le Thi Hong Hao , Nguyen Thi Anh Huong , Nguyen Thi Minh Hoa
Published: January 2024

Controlling pesticide residues in food has been always a concern globally. It is recommended to use certified reference materials (CRM) or reference materials (RM) in pesticide analysis to validate analytical methods and assess the quality of the measurement results. A comprehensive study on production, storage, transportation, and utilization of an RM of pesticide residues (Difenoconazole, Imidacloprid, Acetamiprid, Indoxacarb, Profenofos, Buprofezin) in tomato was conducted. After comparing two production processes of freezing and freeze-drying, the freeze-drying production process was concluded to be superior. The RM production and characterization process is in accordance with ISO 17034:2016 and ISO guide 35:2017-08. The concentrations of 6 pesticides in the RM are around their Codex maximum residue limits. At a storage temperature of 4°C, freeze-dried RM are predicted to be stable for all six pesticides for at least 548 days, while at a temperature of − 20°C, the shelf life was at least 696 days.
The effect of wearing an N95 face mask on intraocular pressure
Authors: Nilforushan Naveed , Najafzadeh Farhad , Bakhsh Samira Chai , Sharfinejad Masoume
Published: January 2024

Purpose
To evaluate the effect of wearing N95 mask on intraocular pressure
Methods
This cross-sectional study enrolled 34 medical staff volunteer. After baseline eye examinations, all participants were asked to wear an N95 mask for one hour. Then O2 saturation, pulse rate and blood pressure evaluation and sequential IOP measurements with Icare and Goldmann applanation tonometer were performed. Then one hour after removal of the mask all measurements were taken again. Finally, all information was collected for statistical analysis.
Results
A total of 34 participants (68 eyes) were included with mean (±SD) age of 38.97(12.41) years. The mean value of IOP/GAT increased significantly by 1.20 (mmHg) after wearing the mask (12.50 to 13.70, p-value<0.001) and then decreased significantly by 1.27 (mmHg) after removing the mask (13.70 to 12.43, p-value<0.001). The O2 saturation increased significantly from 96.4 with mask to 97.05 after mask removal (p-value<0.001). Although the mean Pulse Rate decreased about 1.5 unit after removing the mask but it was not significant. The mean Blood Pressure decreased after removing the mask but the change was not significant. Also, no significant relationship between IOP change and O2 saturation was found.
Conclusion
The use of N95 face masks could cause a marked increase in IOP and decrease in O2 saturation.
Artificial Intelligence Techniques for Dynamic Security Assessments – A Survey
Authors: Cuevas Miguel , Alvarez-Malebrán Ricardo , Rahmann Claudia , Ortiz Diego , Peña José , Rozas-Valderrama Rodigo
Published: January 2024

The rise of converter interface generation (CIGs) technologies with fast response times has introduced new challenges for the stability of electrical power systems. Traditional dynamic security assessment (DSA) methods of power systems are based on dynamic simulations within a time domain. Because of the high computational efforts and human resources required to carry out these kinds of simulations, they are performed for a limited number of adverse (critical) operational conditions in terms of their stability. However, further incorporation of CIGs in power systems not only results in a shift of the critical operating conditions that may threaten the system’s stability, but also the number of critical conditions increases. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop new methods for evaluating system stability in a wide range of operating conditions with a reasonable amount of human and computational effort. A complementary 1 strategy to the traditional methods for DSA is to use artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. Unlike traditional methods, AI techniques use a data set that captures the non-linear relationships between the system’s operational conditions and their stability, without needing to solve the algebraic-differential equations modeling the power system. Once these relationships are established, the system’s stability can be evaluated for other operational conditions much faster (within the order of the hundreds of milliseconds) and accurately. This, in turn, allows for the consideration of an extended range of operational conditions for DSA studies. This article surveys the state of the art regarding the use of AI techniques for DSA in electrical power systems. Focus is made on algorithms, the kind of stability being addressed, data processing and applications. Finally, limitations, challenges, and future trends are discussed.
Efficiency of pneumatic conveying system improve with the help of heat recycling in Graphite manufacturing industry
Authors: Yadav Ranjana , Sharma Ashok Kumar , Sharma Sarita
Published: January 2024

In the pneumatic conveying system the graphite powder conveyed from furnace to silos with the help of compressed air but presence of moisture in this air creates lumps formation in mild steel pipe result choking and system under breakdown. In this paper a practical modification has been done in graphite manufacturing industry to improve the system efficiency of compressor unit by recycling heat with an additional heat exchanger and improve cost control of pneumatic conveying system. This study investigates that potential of heat recycling to enhance the efficiency of pneumatic conveying systems in the graphite manufacturing industry. Coefficient of performance improves (COP) up to 75.2% ,with reduction in down time 75%,increasing availability of pneumatic conveying 23.7% and reduces in cost of steel pipe material up to 66.67% & labour cost 90%. Effectiveness of heat exchanger and heat transfer rate found 63.51% and 16.907 KW respectively.
Integration of Routine Immunization and COVID-19 Vaccination in Ekiti State Primary Health Care Facilities: A Qualitative Assessment of the Enablers and Barriers
Authors: Jimoh Akolade Uthman , Filani Oyebanji , Awobeku Dapo , Isiaka Saheed Dipo , Dauda Mahfus , Adeshina Esther Opeyemi , Samuel Olugbemisola Wuraola , Ayodeji Oluwafisayo Azeez , Adenipekun Segun , Okoh Chukwudinma , Adediran Kehinde , Atobatele Sunday , Sampson Sidney , Tinuoye Tobiloba , Seluwa Ayodele , Ojo Nicholas , Omoya Sunday
Published: January 2024

Background
The development of the COVID-19 vaccine influenced the discussion on the importance of exploring the interaction between COVID-19 vaccination and routine immunization. Subsequently, the WHO Strategic Advisory Group Experts (SAGE) on immunization plausibly advised countries to leverage the COVID-19 vaccination rollout as a transformative opportunity to establish a resilient immunization system, through the integration of routine immunization, resulting in strengthened primary healthcare services.
Objective
This study assesses the enablers and barriers to integrating COVID-19 vaccination and routine immunization in Ekiti state, Nigeria.
Methods
This study adopted a qualitative research approach to obtain information from 40 participants selected purposively across the primary healthcare facilities, LGA, and state levels. A three-tier approach was used in selecting the LGAs. At the same time, In-depth interviews were conducted to elicit relevant information on the assessment of enablers and barriers to integrating COVID-19 vaccination and routine immunization through an interview guide. All audio interview files were transcribed in the English language, coded, and presented using a thematic approach (inductive and deductive approaches)
Results
A total of 40 healthcare workers across Ekiti state were selected to participate in this study. Our study found the enablers of integrating COVID-19 into routine immunization to include demand generation and social mobilization, health education, health workers training, data validation, financing, and supervision. However, rumors, demand for palliatives, Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI), manpower shortage, poor network services, and bad road networks were reported as barriers to integrating COVID-19 vaccination and routine immunization in Ekiti state.
Conclusion
While the enablers of integrating COVID-19 and routine immunization may outweigh its barriers, it is pertinent to know that the efforts towards integrating COVID–19 vaccination on RI is a call to all stakeholders. The identified barriers in the study must be addressed to ensure a strengthened health system. Therefore, achieving a successful integration and uptake of vaccination/immunization is anchored on driving demand generation, social mobilization, health education, availability of healthcare workers, integrated supervision, and financing.
Machine Learning Model Based Prediction of Risk Factors for Hypertension in Elderly HIV/AIDS Patients Using Electronic Medical Records
Authors: An Mingyang , Wang Chunjie , Pan Wei , Wang Xiao , Cai Qiong , Zhao Qian , Yi Li , Sun Yan , Zhang Chunming , Zhang Xianhui , Pan Xilong
Published: January 2024

Objective: This study used electronic medical record information and machine learning methods to develop a model predicting the risk of hypertension in HIV/AIDS patients.
Method: This study focused on HIV/AIDS patients admitted to the Henan Infectious Disease Hospital in China from September 2017 to October 2022. The researchers extracted 84 clinical features from electronic medical records. Feature selection was performed using mutual information, Recursive Feature Elimination, Lasso regression, and Principal Component Analysis. Five machine learning prediction models (eXtreme Gradient Boosting [XGBoost], Logistic Regression, Support Vector Machine [SVM], Back Propagation Neural Network [BPNN], and Decision Tree [DT]) were trained using these selected features. These models were tested using 20% of the data. Model performance was assessed using metrics including the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, precision, and F1 score. The optimal predictive model interpreted the feature values using Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP).
Result: After evaluating five machine learning models, the XGBoost prediction model demonstrated superior predictive capability. According to the SHAP interpretation of this model, CD4/CD3 (percentage of CD4 cells to CD3 cells), NE (Neutrophil Count), CRP (C-Reactive Protein), GLU (Glucose), PLT (Platelets), LDD-c (Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol), ApoA1 (Apolipoprotein A1), TC (Total Cholesterol) were identified as the most crucial predictive features. Additionally, MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration), UCB (Unconjugated Bilirubin), TP (Total Protein), CK-MB (Creatine Kinase-MB), GT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase), PCV (Packed Cell Volume) have a significant impact on the occurrence of hypertension in HIV/AIDS patients.
Conclusion: The predictive model is significant for the rational management and formulation of personalized treatment plans for hospitalized HIV/AIDS patients.