bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microscopic CO2 Injection in Tight Formations: A Powerhouse Technology for Green Energy Transition
Authors: AlKharraa Hamad , AlQuraishi Abdulrahman , Wolf Karl-Heinz , AlDuhailan Mohammed , Mahmoud Mohamed , AlAbdrabalnabi Ridha , Abdullah Eassa , Alqahtani Naif , Zitha Pacelli
Published: June 2024

Advancing towards a green transition necessitates rely in renewable energies and the mitigation of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions through Carbon Capture, Usage, and Storage (CCUS) highlighting the substantial need to store greenhouse gases into geological formations, specifically tight formations. The subsurface storage and the consequent formation fluids displacement is challenging due to the rock’s pore network complexity. This work involved comprehensive laboratory work was performed on Bandera, Kentucky and Scioto sandstones including Routine Core Analyses, Mercury Injection Capillary Pressure (MICP), and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)in order to determine novel criterion for optimal tight sand selection for safe and efficient CO2 storage. Accordingly, Scioto sandstone is elected as the most appropriate candidate for CO2–EOR among the tested sandstones due to its high micropore system capacity to store and confine injected CO2. Coreflooding runs were conducted on Scioto sandstone composite coresto assess the storage efficiency under different injection schemes and NMR technology was employed to evaluate fluid distribution pre- and post-flooding, providing insights into fluids distribution in various pore sizes of the pore network. Results indicate that continuous miscible CO2 was able to invade micropores providing the highest microscopic displacement compared to the other tested injection schemes. Such microscopic displacement can lead to permanent CO2 storage in invaded tight pores due to capillarity mechanism. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of NMR measurements in assessing pore fluids distribution and the potential for long term microscopic CO2 storage and trapping in tight formations. Therefore, borehole NMR technology can be utilized to assess the near wellbore performance of CO2 injection for EOR and geo-storage purposes.
Review of Reservoir Engineering Considerations for Screening CO2 Geothermal Sites to Optimize Energy and Storage Yields
Authors: Turunc H. , Kowollik P. , Burachok O. , Alkan H.
Published: June 2024

Carbon-dioxide-geothermal power generation opens up the unique opportunity to form a synergetic combination of the two leading decarbonization pathways: the development of renewable energies and the avoidance/reversal of CO2-emissions via geological carbon storage (GCS). Whilst CO2-geothermal power generation is reliant on preceding (or parallel running) GCS operations, it may, at the same time, advocate for Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technology. This is because the generation of geothermal power provides a sustainable concept for parallel- and post-utilization of GSC sites, which improves public perception and enhances the project NPV and life span, in turn securing jobs in the long-term.

Existing studies mainly focus on the concept of CO2 utilization as a working fluid for geothermal power generation, thermosiphon functional principle, enhanced geothermal systems in hot dry rocks, thermal effects and geochemical interactions of CO2 and aquifer brines etc. Unfortunately, they lack engineering recommendations, guidelines and criteria for the selection of optimum sites, where pilot or full-field implementation of CO2 plume geothermal (CPG) systems could be implemented. In the current paper we propose a matrix of the selection criteria for screening of potential geologic sites derived from sensitivity and uncertainty analysis considering the key subsurface parameters like reservoir depth and thickness, geothermal gradient, permeability, well spacing and operational constraints, etc. The proposed matrix allows for time and therefore cost saving on proper identification of suitable sites, not only in the depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs, but also in saline aquifers.
Experimental Investigation of CO2-Hydrate Formation During CO2 Storage in Tight Chalk Reservoirs
Authors: Khojamli S. , Shojaei K. G. , Talaei A. , Mokhtari R.
Published: June 2024

CO2-hydrate formation in porous media diminishes injectivity, which is crucial for sustained high-rate CO2 injection in geological sequestration, posing risks throughout the value chain. Confined water in small pores induces a shift in the CO2-hydrate envelope, especially in high-porosity, low-permeability chalk structures. This study aims to establish a CO2-hydrate envelope in chalk and explore the impact of brine salinity and other gases on hydrate formation. Experiments are conducted using a well-designed coreflooding rig, where a core sample is mounted with separate brine and CO2 inlet lines to minimize hydrate formation outside the porous media. Precise temperature monitoring and simultaneous injection of CO2 and water guarantee both phases' presence, with temperature reduction leading to CO2-hydrate formation. CO2-hydrate formation is tracked through pressure difference and electrical resistivity responses within the core. Preliminary findings demonstrate the repeatability and reproducibility of results, with observed heat release during hydrate initiation and subsequent temperature increase. Significant differential pressure increase indicates injectivity loss during CO2-hydrate formation, mitigated by elevated temperature, restoring core permeability. Temperature-dependent variations in hydrate formation and dissipation are noted, with ongoing experiments exploring the impact of brine salinity and non-CO2 gases on the hydrate envelope. Restricting water into small pores alters the CO2-hydrate envelope's stability, particularly in high-porosity, low-permeability chalk structures, warranting careful consideration due to limited experimental data available in the literature.
Experimental Study of CO2 Mixture Injection at High Pressure and Temperature
Authors: Bartosek M. , Moghadas L. , Renna D. , Pisicchi P.
Published: June 2024

Carbon dioxide geological storage is considered one of the crucial technologies that can permit to mitigate the greenhouse gas emission impact. The storage site characterization through laboratory studies is important to assess feasibility and mitigate the risk.

In this work we present a series of core-flooding experiments necessary to acquire the fluid flow parameters and behavior at reservoir conditions. CO2 supercritical stream was mixed with methane in two sets at 5% and 10% of CH4. Core-flooding tests were conducted at high pressure (HP), up to 375 bar and high temperature (HT), up to 180°C.

HP-HT core-flooding rig and a "4D" X ray tomographic rig were used, permitting to accurately monitor the effect of fluids propagation, breakthrough, and production in the porous core samples. Different set of relative permeability experiments were conducted adopting both Unsteady and Steady State methodologies. The experiments followed laboratory methodologies necessary for reservoir condition aiming also to improve the existing protocols and maximize the acquired data quality.

Core Plugs in a broad range of permeability (0.1-600 mD) were tested. X-ray tomography permits to evaluate the effect of heterogeneity. The X-ray volumetric data, acquired continuously during the flooding, were converted in linear profiles of saturation. The latter together with additional conventional fluid and gas inlet-outlet mass balance and accurate pressure monitoring permitted to assess good quality relative permeability data. Flow behavior with observed dynamic phenomena is discussed. The CO2 contamination with methane did not significantly affect the injectivity.

Core flooding results, injectivity behavior with observed dynamic phenomena are presented. The CO2 stream contamination with methane and the harsh conditions, in particular the high temperature is not common in experimental works (Rizzato et al 2019).
State of the art Test Method to Quantify Progression Rate of Carbonation of Wellbore Sealing Materials
Authors: Lende Gunnar , Sørensen Espen , Jandhyala Siva Rama Krishna , van Noort Reinier
Published: June 2024

The primary objective of this paper is to demonstrate an effective approach for mapping and quantifying progression rate of CO2 induced carbonation on wellbore cements. The method involves four steps: 1. molding and curing the sealant, 2. exposing axially to CO2, either super-critical CO2 saturated with H2O or H2O saturated with CO2, at a high differential pressure while measuring flow rates, 3. mapping reacted versus unreacted areas radially and axially by measuring matrix hardness with an indentation method and 4, comparing pre-, post- and reference exposure results for various mechanical properties and permeability. Permeability and conventional mechanical properties are measured before and after exposure and then compared with reference samples. The method provides a quantitative and illustrative map of the carbonation progression axially through the exposed sample, and it helps build a map of the exposed area in terms of actual changes to the mechanical properties. It further provides data that shows the effect of the carbonation in terms of hardening, softening and change in permeability.

This reveals changes in the materials taking place beyond the initial carbonation of Ca(OH)2 normally mapped by the phenolphthalein method and helps when evaluating sealants for which mapping methods like phenolphthalein are not available. The method was applied to a wide variety of sealant compositions with consistent results. A high axial differential pressure is applied to accelerate progression, so that more predictive data can be gathered in a relatively short time, from which long-term effects can be extrapolated. The method has shown highly applicable for quantifying physical effects of carbonation and can be performed without highly advanced and expensive equipment by using equipment that most technology centers have access. It provides a valuable quantification of progression rate of affected as well as damaged matrix which can be used to assess usable lifetime of barrier materials in well-defined and semi-confined geometries such as plugs or annular barriers for CCUS wells.
The wave mechanics for microwave absorption film-Part 3: Film with multilayers
Authors: Liu Yue , Liu Ying , Drew Michael
Published: June 2024

In the field of microwave absorption, the quarter-wavelength theory (QWM) is commonly employed for films with multiplelayers. However, this study demonstrates the inadequacy of QWM as it is fundamentally flawed. The conventional results pertaining to films with or without a metal backing are typically applied to the central layers of multilayer films. Nevertheless, this approach is flawed, as it overlooks the presence of incident microwaves on both sides of the central layer, focusing solely on those in front of the film. To address this gap, our work introduces a novel theoretical framework for multilayer films, filling the void in existing literature. This research introduces a new, robust physical approach to understanding Multilayered films.
Genetic identification and determination of parasites (Babesia, Leptospira and Toxoplasma Gondi) in wild rats
Authors: Atukpa ME , Okeke EO , Falade MO , ALi Awais , Ali Syed Luqman , Hajar Azraida , Ullah Waseef
Published: June 2024

Rodents are reservoirs for the transmission of various zoonotic diseases such as Toxoplasmosis, Babesiosis, and Leptospirosis, which have become a threat to public health worldwide. Given the large number and significant presence of wild rats, the aim of this study was to genetically identify and determine the presence of parasites (Babesia, Leptospira, and Toxoplasma gondii) in wild rats found in Obafemi Awolowo Hall, University of Ibadan. Wild rats were captured from different parts of the University using live traps and euthanized, then dissected aseptically. Body length and weight were recorded before obtaining kidneys and brains for PCR-based parasite detection and identification. A total of 53 rodents belonging to five rodent genera and one shrew genus were captured. Among these rodents, Rattus norvegicus was the most predominant species, accounting for 70% of total captures. The largest category was 21–40 cm (63.63%), and the highest body weight range was 1-200 g (61.81%). The presence of these zoonotic parasites in wild rats suggests the potential risk of transmitting rodent-borne zoonotic diseases to humans. There is a need to enhance interventions for rat control and raise public awareness about the associated health risks, as this is an issue of public health concern.
The role of blood PCR in differentiation of acute toxoplasmosis from chronic infection during pregnancy
Authors: Roostaei Tayebe , Hosseini Seyed Ali , Foroughi-Parvar Faeze , Haghi Mousa Motavalli , Hajilooi Mehrdad , matini mohammad
Published: June 2024

Toxoplasma gondii causes common parasitic infection, and congenital toxoplasmosis is considered a serious public health concern. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of maternal blood PCR in differentiating between acute and chronic toxoplasmosis during pregnancy. During January to June 2023, 291 pregnant women who attended antenatal clinics in Malayer, western Iran, were tested for IgG antibodies against T. gondii using ELISA assay. The seropositive samples were subjected to anti-Toxoplasma IgG avidity and IgM ELISA test. Then the peripheral blood of women with positive sera was checked for Toxoplasma DNA by B1 gene and nested-PCR method. Out of 219 pregnant women, 77 (26.46%, 95% CI:31.53–21.39) were positive for anti-Toxoplasma IgG. The seropositivity rate was significantly higher in the age group of 39 years and older. Anti-Toxoplasma IgM was detected in two IgG seropositive samples. In total, the IgG avidity index was low in 4 women without obvious symptoms of toxoplasmosis, while it was borderline and high in 4 and 59 women, respectively. The Toxoplasma B1 gene was detected in four out of the 77 seropositive samples. According to the combination of serological and PCR results, primary infection was diagnosed in three PCR positive women with low and borderline avidity index. In this study, the primary toxoplasmosis was 1%, indicating that the risk of congenital toxoplasmosis is still a serious issue. Furthermore, it is suggested that serology results be interpreted in the context of the results of other additional confirmatory tests.
WITHDRAWN: Effect of pyro-dextrinization, acid hydrolysis and cross linking modifications on physico-chemical, functional and structural properties of starch from Elephant Foot Yam (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius)
Authors: Iqbal Unaiza , Saini Pinki , Ahmed Mazia
Published: June 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn, as it was submitted in error. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Intravitreal faricimab for previously treated neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Park Susanna , Hang Abraham , Ngo Taylor , Virk Jaipreet , Moussa Kareem , Moshiri Ala , Emami-Naeini Parisa
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives:
To report our real-world experience using intravitreal faricimab, a novel anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy, in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) previously treated with other anti-VEGF therapy.
Subjects/Methods:
A retrospective, single-center study of previously treated nAMD eyes treated with faricimab.
Results:
In 88 eyes (73 patients), mean baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/63 (range 20/20 to CF) with mean anti-VEGF injection interval of 6.1+2.0 weeks. Mean baseline central subfield thickness (CST) was 291+73 µm. During mean follow-up of 30.1+13.5 (range 7.0 to 50.3) weeks on faricimab, the eyes received an average of 5.1+2.4 injections (range 1 to 11). Mean BCVA remained at 20/63 (p=0.11), but injection interval increased to 7.4+2.6 weeks (p<0.001), and CST decreased to 262+63 µm (p<0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that higher number of different anti-VEGF drugs used at baseline was associated with a lower decrease in CST on faricimab (p=0.04) while total number of anti-VEGF injections at baseline (p=0.56) and time on faricimab (p=0.68) were not associated. Faricimab was discontinued in 23 eyes (26.1%), including 8 eyes for poor response, 2 eyes for persistent new floaters and 4 eyes for new vision decrease which reversed after stopping faricimab.
Conclusions
In previously treated nAMD eyes, intravitreal faricimab was associated with increased mean treatment interval and decreased CST but no improvement in mean BCVA. The benefit of faricimab on CST reduction may be diminished in eyes previously treated with multiple different types of anti-VEGF therapy.
Efficacy and Safety of Allogeneic platelet-rich plasma in Chronic Wound Treatment: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Li Yalong , Wang Xingtong , Li Yucong , Li Dawei , Li Shijie , Shen Chuanan
Published: June 2024

Background: Allogeneic platelet-rich plasma (al-PRP) is gaining attention in clinical practice for treating chronic refractory wounds, though research results remain controversial.
Objective: To assess the clinical efficacy of al-PRP for chronic refractory wounds.
Method: Databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, SinoMed, VIP, and WFPD were searched for randomized controlled trials comparing al-PRP with conventional treatments up to October 2023. Two researchers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed quality. Statistical analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.4.
Results: Twelve studies with 717 cases were included. Meta-analysis showed al-PRP significantly improved outcomes compared to non-al-PRP treatments: increased healing rate (RR 2.72, 95% CI 1.77-4.19, p<0.00001), shortened healing time (SMD -1.03, 95% CI -1.31 to -0.75, p<0.00001), improved efficacy rate (RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.10-1.28, p<0.00001), increased wound shrinkage (MD 35.65%, 95% CI 21.65-49.64, p<0.00001), and reduced hospital stays (MD -2.62, 95% CI -4.35 to -0.90, p=0.003).
Conclusion: Al-PRP is a feasible, effective, and safe biological therapy for chronic refractory wounds.
Addressing Challenges for Psychotherapy Supervision in Global Mental Health: Experiential Learnings From Rural Nepal
Authors: Rimal Pragya , Shrestha Srijana , Khatri Rekha , Sapkota Sabitri , Swar Sikhar Bahadur , Basnet Madhur , Sigdel Kripa , Jirel Sunita , Acharya Bibhav
Published: June 2024

Background
As the field of global mental health grows, many psychotherapy trainees will work across cultures in low-resource settings in high-income countries or in low- and middle-income countries. Faculty members and mentors may face several challenges in providing supervision for psychologists in low-resource settings. As such, there is a need to develop best practices for psychotherapy supervision in global mental health.
Methods
We describe the common challenges and potential strategies in psychotherapy supervision based on our research, clinical, and academic partnerships between academic institutions, a nonprofit organization, and the Nepali government.
Results
The strategies and considerations we have found helpful include focusing on therapies with strong behavioral and interpersonal (rather than emotional or cognitive) components and using locally validated therapies or standard manuals that have been endorsed by the WHO for low-resource settings. Other strategies include providing psychotherapy training for local psychiatrists who may be in supervisory roles and gaining competence in navigating different expectations of social structures and family dynamics.
Conclusion
Supervisors face many challenges while supporting trainees and early psychologists in global mental health settings. While ensuring local adaptation, key considerations can be developed into best practices to support psychiatrists, supervisors, and trainees based in low- and middle-income countries.
Do GST-M, GST-T, and TP53 Gene Polymorphisms Have a Role in Childhood Obesity?
Authors: Dirican Onur , Bulus Derya , Husseini Abbas , Hanilçe Yücel , Oğuztüzün Serpil
Published: June 2024

Objective:
This study investigates genotypic variations in GST-M, GST-T, and TP53;rs1042522 among children with obesity.
Methods:
Blood samples from 60 patients with childhood obesity were analyzed. Deletions in GST-M and GST-T were identified using quantitative PCR with melting curve analysis, while TP53;rs1042522 was genotyped via sequence analysis. Deviation from Hardy-Weinberg proportion was examined, and associations with clinical and demographic variables were assessed.
Results:
We observed deviations in the genotypes of GST-M and GST-T, while TP53;rs1042522 remained aligned. Higher cholesterol, LDL, and GGT levels were found in individuals with null GST-M genotypes. Notably, individuals with Wt/null GST-T genotypes had remarkably higher waist circumference and levels of albumin. The wild-type GST-T genotype correlated with reduced BMI and creatinine levels. Individuals with TP53;rs1042522 mutations showed decreased LDL and cholesterol levels but increased ALT levels.
Conclusion:
The research highlighted the notable influence of genetic variations in GST-M and GST-T on obesity in children, while the TP53 polymorphism, rs1042522, did not show a significant impact.
Predicting nursing workload in digestive wards based on machine learning: A prospective study
Authors: Song Yulei , Zhang Xueqing , Luo Dan , Shi Jiarui , Zang Qiongqiong , Wang Ye , Yin Haiyan , Xu Guihua , Bai Yamei
Published: June 2024

Background
The assessment and allocation of nursing manpower, as well as performance evaluation, heavily rely on nursing workload, which is also strongly associated with patient safety outcomes. Nevertheless, the majority of previous studies have utilized cross-sectional data collection methods, thereby impeding the precision of workload prediction. Static workload models fail to incorporate longitudinal changes in influential factors, potentially resulting in delayed or erroneous nursing management decisions and ultimately causing imbalances in nurses' workload.
Aim
To employ machine learning algorithms in order to facilitate the dynamic prediction of nursing workload based on patient characteristics.
Methods
This study was conducted as a prospective cohort quantitative study between March 2019 and August 2021 in two general hospitals located in China. Data pertaining to the characteristics of 133 patients over the course of 1339 hospital days, as well as nursing hours, were collected. A longitudinal investigation into nursing workload was carried out, employing multiple linear regression to identify measurable factors that significantly impact nursing workload. Additionally, machine learning methods were employed to dynamically predict the nursing time required for patients.
Results
Mean direct nursing workload varied greatly across hospitalization. Number of complications during hospitalization, age, income, SCS score, and ADL score were all significant factors contributing to increased care needs. Improving predictive performance through machine learning, with random forests performing the best, RMSE (989.67), R2 (0.76), and MSE (979451.24).
Conclusions
The variation in nursing workload during hospitalization is primarily influenced by patient self-care capacity, complications, and comorbidities. Random Forest, a machine learning algorithm, is capable of effectively handling a wide range of features such as patient characteristics, complications, comorbidities, and other factors. It has demonstrated exceptional performance in predicting workload.
Implications for Nursing Management:
This study introduces a quantitative model that evaluates nursing workload throughout the duration of hospitalization. The utilization of this model allows nursing managers to holistically consider multiple factors that impact workload, resulting in enhanced comprehension and interpretation of workload variations. By employing a random forest algorithm for workload prediction, nursing managers can anticipate and estimate workload in a proactive and precise manner, thereby facilitating more efficient planning of human resources.
Validation of the Arabic language version of the shortest form of the Community Assessment of Psychic Experiences (CAPE-9) in a young adult population-based sample
Authors: Fekih-Romdhane Feten , Malaeb Diana , Sakr Fouad , Dabbous Mariam , Obeid Sahar , Hallit Souheil
Published: June 2024

Background: While self-report questionnaires measuring psychotic experiences (PEs) in community individuals have recently been made available in the Arabic language, their length may be a barrier to PEs assessment in settings in lower-to-middle income Arab countries, that often operate under severe resources constraints. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the Arabic-language version of the shortest version of the Community Assessment of Psychic Experiences-Positive (CAPE-P), i.e. the CAPE-9, in a sample of community adults.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried-out using a web-based questionnaire. A total of 685 Arabic-speaking adults from the general population of Lebanon (mean age of 23.54 ± 4.58 years, 66.0% females) participated.
Results: The internal structure of the Arabic CAPE-9 demonstrated that the overall model fit of the tridimensional factor structure (consisting of “Persecutory Ideation”, “Bizarre Experiences”, and “Perceptual abnormalities” sub-dimensions) was acceptable. A unidimensional model was tested and exhibited borderline fit indices, with all nine items loading onto one factor. Internal consistency coefficients estimates were of alpha=.84 and omega=.84 for the total score, and ranged from .64 - .70 for omega and alpha values for the three sub-scores. Measurement invariance between males and females was established for both models, with no significant difference noticed between genders. Finally, significant positive associations were found between PEs and anxiety, depression, insomnia severity, and aggression, indicating the validity of the scale.
Conclusion: As a short, simple, economic, and convenient-to-administer measure of PEs, the CAPE-9 is amenable to widespread use. It has, therefore, the potential to foster research and clinical practice by easing data collection, lessening burden and enhancing engagement of respondents. It may substantially improve recognition of a substantial proportion of undetected patients with psychotic disorders, and contribute to reducing the very long duration of untreated psychosis still observed in Arab countries.
Synthesis, characterization and catalytic investigation of alumina supported derived benzene- 1,3 diol - cobalt complexes
Authors: Elabeden Shorouk S. Zyn , El-Molla Sahar A. , Shebl Magdy , Sanad Sameh G. , Naghmash Mona A.
Published: June 2024

4,6-bis[(1E)-N-(2-hydroxyethyl) ethanimidoyl] benzene-1,3-diol) Cobalt and (4,6-bis [(1E)-N-benzylethanimidoyl] benzene-1,3-diol) Cobalt complexes were successfully supported on Al2O3. Furthermore, the catalytic effectiveness of each were evaluated in the process of decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). It's interesting to note that the loading Co-complexes on Al2O3 catalyst resulted in a notable advancement in the catalytic efficiencies compared with single Al2O3catalysts. However, the influence of the concentration of Co-complexes were studied to get optimum amount. The catalysts were then examined using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), N2 adsorption-desorption analysis, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Results denoted that 0.015 Co-complexes / Al2O3 have the highest catalytic activity. The effect of temperature on the catalytic decomposition of H2O2 has been investigated it was found that as the temperature increases the catalytic activity enhanced. Ultimately, the 0.015 Co-complex / Al2O3 catalyst showed greater stability throughout the H2O2 decomposition process and is recyclable several times.
The MIND-PD study: a randomized controlled trial to investigate clinical and biological effects of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy in people with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Heide Anouk van der , Goltz Franziska , de Vries Nienke M. , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Speckens Anne E. , Helmich Rick C.
Published: June 2024

Background
People with Parkinson’s disease (PD) are very sensitive to the effects of stress. The prevalence of stress-related neuropsychiatric symptoms is high, and acute stress worsens motor symptoms. Animal studies suggest that chronic stress may accelerate disease progression, but evidence for this in humans is lacking. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) train participants to focus on the present moment, on purpose and without judgement. Previous studies suggest that MBIs may alleviate stress and reduce depression and anxiety in PD. We aim to demonstrate the efficacy of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) as a non-pharmacologic treatment strategy for neuropsychiatric (and motor) symptoms in PD, and to identify the mechanisms underlying stress and stress reduction in PD.
Methods
In a prospective randomized controlled trial (RCT), we investigate whether 8 weeks of MBCT, as compared to care as usual, can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with PD. We aim to include 124 PD patients, who experience mild-moderate symptoms of anxiety and depression, are eligible for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and naïve to mindfulness, and who have a disease duration ≤ 10 years. Every participant is followed for 12 months. Clinical and biochemical assessments take place at baseline (T0), after 2 months (T1), and after 12 months (T2); MRI assessments take place at T0 and T2. Our primary outcome is the total score on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) at T1, while correcting for the HADS score at T0, age, and gender. Beyond testing the effects of MBCT on symptoms of anxiety and depression in PD, we explore whether MBCT: (1) has an effect on motor symptom severity, (2) influences cerebral and biochemical markers of stress, and (3) leads to a change in biomarkers of PD progression.
Discussion
MIND-PD is one of the first RCTs with a 1-year follow-up to investigate the effects of MBCT on symptoms of anxiety and depression in PD, and to explore possible mechanisms underlying stress and stress reduction in PD. Insight into these mechanisms can pave the way to new treatment methods in the future.
Trial registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05779137. Registered on 12 January 2023.
Implementation and effects of a student-engaged medical research curriculum
Authors: Jeon Seong Ju , Yoo Hyo Hyun
Published: June 2024

Background
This study investigated the educational effects and operational outcomes of a student-engaged medical research curriculum to analyze changes among students.
Methods
Surveys were administered to 112 medical students to examine the changes in their perceptions of the need for medical research competence, research interest, self-efficacy, and satisfaction levels after the implementation of each curriculum.
Results
The results revealed a decline in the perception of the need for medical research competency and interest after Medical Research Practice 1, with a subsequent increase after Medical Research Practice 3. Conversely, research self-efficacy showed steady improvement throughout the curriculum. Additionally, students with prior research experience exhibited higher levels of perception of the need for medical research competence, interest, and self-efficacy than those without such experience. Students were highly satisfied with their opportunities to interact with professors in Medical Research Practice courses.
Conclusions
This study provides foundational insights into the educational effects of integrating student-engaged medical research courses into the regular curriculum, with the aim of cultivating students' research interests and efficacy.
The extent of the impact of green spaces on urban heat islands: A meta-analysis of research using remote sensing between 2010 and 2023
Authors: Cherif Nadhima , lasram Asma , Lopes Hélder Silva , Silva Lígia
Published: June 2024

As a result of global climate change, the urban image and morphology have undergone intense alteration. This has led to the emergence of several urban phenomena, such as the urban heat island (UHI). This phenomenon is exacerbated by climate change, posing a threat to human health and overall well-being. Urban green spaces have been considered as a solution of mitigating the urban heat island effect. This study aims to elucidate the different degrees of cooling effect attributed to greenery in different study regions characterised by distinct climate patterns, various green space configurations and seasonal dynamics. A meta-analysis was conducted, employing a qualitative and quantitative approach along with satellite image analysis. The results reveal that green spaces, including parks and trees, can effectively reduce the urban air temperatures by an average of 2 to 10 °C per unit increase in vegetation index. However, the efficacy of greenery in mitigating UHI exhibits variation in response to diverse climate patterns, configurations of green spaces, seasonal fluctuations, irrigation practices, and anthropogenic factors such as population density and urbanization. The comprehensive examination of the relationship between green spaces and Surface Urban Heat Island (SUHI) across a broad spectrum of climate patterns and diverse green space configurations contributes to addressing the critical knowledge gap in the existing literature.
Impella Effects on Reverse Myocardial Remodeling in Anterior ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Insights from a Comprehensive Analysis of Acute and Chronic MRI Findings
Authors: Fukamachi Daisuke , Yamada Akimasa , Takahashi Kurara , Sumida Ran , Tanaka Yudai , Migita Shohei , Mizobuchi Saki , Miyagawa Masatsugu , Fujito Hidesato , Koyama Yutaka , Ogaku Akihito , Fukumoto Katsunori , Arai Riku , Ebuchi Yasunari , Monden Masaki , Morikawa Tomoyuki , Mineki Takashi , Kojima Keisuke , Murata Nobuhiro , Sudo Mitsumasa , Kitano Daisuke , Matsumoto Naoya , Okumura Yasuo
Published: June 2024

Background
Late adverse myocardial remodeling after ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is strongly associated with cardiac death. Global Longitudinal strain (GLS) and circumferential diastolic strain rate (CDSR) derived cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) is a powerful predictor of late myocardial remodeling. However, Impella’s effects on CMRI-based myocardial remodeling after STEMI is not fully understood.
Methods
We retrospectively compared the CMRI-derived strain and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in the acute (18 [14–22]) vs 14 [6–22] days, P = 0.43) and chronic phases (118 [102–242] vs 117 [101–202] days, P = 1.0) after broad anterior STEMI.
Results
Five patients received an Impella before percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and 7 were given intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP). There were no significant differences in age (67 ± 10 vs. 63 ± 13, P = 0.53), peak creatine kinase levels (2595 [2069–12932] vs. 4372 [2941–5601] IU/L, P = 0.76), and LVEF at admission (51 ± 11 vs. 50 ± 9%, P = 1.0) between the two groups. The Impella group showed significantly better acute CMRI-derived LVEF (49 ± 10 vs. 36 ± 8%, P = 0.03) and CDSR (0.9 ± 0.2 vs. 0.5 ± 0.3 s⁻¹, P = 0.018) despite no significant difference in acute GLS between the two groups (-9.4 ± 2.2 vs. -8.7 ± 1.6%, P = 0.88). In the chronic phase, CMRI-derived LVEF and GLS were significantly higher in the Impella group (54 ± 9 vs. 39 ± 5%, P = 0.018; -9.9 ± 1.3 vs. -6.5 ± 2.2%, P = 0.01).
Conclusions
The Impella implantation leads to better LVEF and CDSR in the acute phase compared to IABP, and further to maintenance of both LVEF and GLS through the chronic phase. Unlike with IABP, LV unloading brought about by Impella, significantly contributed to the reverse remodeling process.
Real-World Clinical Outcomes Associated with Progression and Cirrhosis in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis
Authors: Qian Christina , Fishman Jesse , Szabo Shelagh M. , Kim Yestle , Medicis Joe , Rochon Hannah , Sun Rosie , Charlton Michael
Published: June 2024

Background: While the clinical burden of liver disease progression among individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is substantial, real-world data quantifying how cirrhosis contributes to that burden are lacking.
Aim: To assess the risk of progression and death among patients with MASH without baseline cirrhosis; and risk of subsequent advanced liver events and death among patients with MASH and baseline cirrhosis.
Methods: The Optum de-identified Clinformatics® Data Mart Database (CDM) (Oct 1, 2015-Dec 31, 2022) was used to identify adults with MASH. Patients were grouped according presence of baseline cirrhosis. Risk of and time to progression or subsequent advanced liver events, composite clinical outcome, and all-cause death were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models.
Results: Among patients without baseline cirrhosis (n=19,419), 21.8% progressed over follow-up, and the risk of progression was 28% higher for those with comorbid cardiovascular disease (CVD; hazard ratio[95% confidence interval]=1.28[1.19-1.38]) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM; 1.28[1.20-1.37]) at baseline. Risk of experiencing a composite clinical outcome during the follow-up also increased with age, and comorbid CVD or T2DM, for both cohorts without and with cirrhosis (n=9,157). Risk of death was significantly higher for patients with baseline cirrhosis (4.68[4.29-5.12]), males (1.20[1.12-1.29]), those with CVD (1.58[1.40-1.78]), and those with T2DM (1.78[1.65-1.92]).
Conclusions: Clinical burden associated with MASH is high and substantially greater for patients with cirrhosis. Risks of progression and death increased with age and metabolic conditions. Therapies slowing cirrhosis development may reduce the risk of progression to advanced liver disease and death, for those suffering from MASH.
Histological description of gonadal development in a neotropical insectivorous bat Eumops patagonicus (Chiroptera: Molossidae)
Authors: Rodriguez Florencia Evelyn , Olea Gabriela Beatriz , Aguirre María Victoria , Lombardo Daniel Marcelo
Published: June 2024

The order Chiroptera is one of the most diverse orders in terms of the number of species, however, very few studies have been conducted in this group regarding its embryonic development. In this area, studies have focused on staging through morphological characters, but those describing organogenesis are scarce. Therefore, this work describes the gonadogenesis of Eumops patagonicus a Sudamerican insectivorous bat, with an emphasis on ovarian development and determination of the migration stage of the primordial germ cells (PGCs) through immunostaining. Pregnant females of this species were captured to carry out the study, and the embryos were processed to obtain histological sections using the conventional histology technique and immunohistochemistry (OCT4, PCNA, Bax and Bcl-XL). Critical stages of gonadal differentiation were described, starting from the formation of the urogenital ridge and the identification to PCGs with the positive reaction for OCT4 in embryological development stadio 13. At stadio 17 to development, it is observed an undifferentiated gonad with active proliferation and then a defined testis (S. 21) and ovaries (S.23 and S.25). The embryo ovaries S.23 show a cortex formed for ovogonia cyst/nets that have a craniocaudal development whit difference in the immunolabeling to PCNA, Bax and Bcl-XL. The embryo ovaries S.25 show the primordial follicles in the ovary cortex. The results determined that there is a conserved pattern in embryonic development in this order when comparing E. patagonicus with frugivorous bat. This information is important to the establishment of relations in developmental in mammalian and into the order Chiroptera.
Predictors of early recurrence in meningioma
Authors: Soberano Diogo Abreu , Lima Jorge , Pinheiro Jorge , Soares Maria José , Pinto Mafalda , Ferro Anabela , Linhares Paulo , Carvalho Bruno
Published: June 2024

Purpose – Although meningiomas have mostly a favourable prognosis, some have early recurrences or the need for a new treatment, irrespective of the histological grade. In this study, we aimed to characterize clinical, radiological, and molecular markers in a cohort of patients with early recurrent meningiomas.
Methods – We conducted a retrospective, non-interventional study of patients with World Health Organization (WHO) grade 1 or 2 meningiomas who underwent surgical resection at Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João between 2010 and 2021, and who had tumour recurrence or needed retreatment in the subsequent 5 years. We analysed demographic, clinical, radiological, histological, treatment-associated parameters, molecular features (TERT promotor mutations and CDKN2A/B deletion), and progression/survival data. An analysis was conducted to determine which variables were associated with shorter time-to-progression, aiming to identify predictors with a greater impact on early and rapid recurrence.
Results – We evaluated 64 patients. The median time of progression-free survival (PFS) was 26 months. Shorter PFS was associated with WHO grade 2 (11 vs 27 months, p = 0.010), mitotic index ≥8 (7 vs 26 months, p <0.001), and T1-weighted image signal (T1w) hyperintensity (15 vs 26 months, p = 0.025). None of the cases showed CDKN2A/B deletion, while TERT promoter mutations were detected in four meningiomas.
Conclusion – In this study of early recurrence of meningiomas, WHO grade 2, mitotic index ≥8, and T1w hyperintensity were significantly associated with shorter PFS, while molecular biomarkers usually associated with shorter PFS (TERT promoter mutations and CDKN2A/B deletion) were only detected in four patients.
Styled and characteristic Peking opera facial makeup synthesis with Co-training and Transfer Conditional StyleGAN2
Authors: Shen Yinghua , Duan Oran , Xin Xiaoyu , Yan Ming , Li Zhe
Published: June 2024

Against the backdrop of the deep integration of culture and technology, research and practice in digitization of intangible cultural heritage has continued to deepen. However, due to the lack of data and training, it is still very difficult to apply artificial intelligence to the field of cultural heritage protection. This article integrates image generation technology into the digital protection of Peking opera facial makeup, using a self-built Peking opera facial makeup dataset. Based on the StyleGAN2 network, we propose a style generative cooperative training network Co-StyleGAN2, which integrates the Adaptive Data Augmentation to alleviate the problem of discriminator overfitting and introduces the idea of cooperative training to design a dual discriminator collaborative training network structure to stabilize the training process. We designed a Peking opera facial makeup image conditional generation network TC-StyleGAN2 which is transferred from unconditional generation network. The weights of the unconditional pre-training model are fixed, and an adaptive filtering modulation module is added to modulate the category parameters to complete the conversion from unconditional to conditional StyleGAN2 to deal with the training difficulty of conditional GANs on limited data, which suffer from severe mode collapse. The experimental results shows that the training strategy proposed in this article is better than the comparison algorithm, and the image generation quality and diversity have been improved.
DCAF13 promotes ovarian cancer progression by activating FRAS1-mediated FAK signaling pathway
Authors: Tang Ze-Yi , Wang Xiaomin , Xu Chun-Wei , Sun Qing-Qing , Hua Yu-Xin , Zhou Qi-Yin , Hu Han-Yin , Liu Sheng-Bing , Guo Yan-Jun , Ao Lei , Che Xuan , Zhang Xian-Chao , Heger Michal , Zheng Xin , Liu Ai-Jun , Wang Qian , Zhan Zha-Jun , Cheng Shu-Qun , Pan Wei-Wei
Published: June 2024

Cullin-RING ubiquitin ligase 4 (CRL4) is closely correlated with the incidence and progression of ovarian cancer. DDB1- and CUL4-associated factor 13 (DCAF13), a substrate-recognition protein in the CRL4 E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, is involved in the occurrence and development of ovarian cancer. However, its precise function and the underlying molecular mechanism in this disease remain unclear. In this study we confirmed that DCAF13 is highly expressed in human ovarian cancer and its expression is negatively correlated with the overall survival rate of patients with ovarian cancer. We then used CRISPR/Cas9 to knockout DCAF13 and found that its deletion significantly inhibited the proliferation, colony formation, and migration of human ovarian cancer cells. In addition, DCAF13 deficiency inhibited tumor proliferation in nude mice. Mechanistically, CRL4-DCAF13 was found to target Fraser extracellular matrix complex subunit 1 (FRAS1) for polyubiquitination and proteasomal degradation. FRAS1 was found to influence the proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer cell through induction of the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling pathway. These findings collectively show that DCAF13 is an important oncogene which promotes tumorigenesis in ovarian cancer cells by mediating FRAS1/FAK signaling. Our findings pave the way to develop new potential targeted therapeutics for ovarian cancer treatment.
Nursing Students as Workforce Extenders: An Evidence-Based-Pandemic Education-Innovation
Authors: Jumah Ph Jawaher Abdullah Bin
Published: June 2024

Background: The recent COVID-19 pandemic severely damaged healthcare systems worldwide, exposing the world’s emergency preparedness and response capacity. Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review was to identify the outcomes of nursing students as workforce extenders in the form of perceived benefits and losses.
Methods: A principle researcher conducted an online search on CINAHL, PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library to find the desired studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria, using keywords and MeSH terms.
Results: A total of 1160 participants from a 52 studies were reviewed spanned 5 years published from 21 different countries. Most of the included studies suggested that nursing interventions resulted in improved student learning outcomes as knowledge, skills, satisfaction, critical thinking, and self-confidence.
Conclusion: The nursing students are workforce extenders is an invaluable education innovation, especially during the times of pandemics when nursing shortage reaches its peak. The main findings of this systematic review focused on improved student learning outcomes as acquiring Knowledge, skill performance, critical thinking, self-confidence, and learners satisfaction,
New Upper Palaeolithic rock art complex in the Tejo Valley, Central Portugal
Authors: Pereira Telmo , Garcês Sara , Danelatos Dionysios , Collado Hipólito Giraldo , Nash George H. , Adewumi Opeyemi , Gomes Hugo , Monteiro Patrícia , Oosterbeek Luiz
Published: June 2024

The Ocreza Valley (Lower Tejo River), central Portugal provides evidence for a new Upper Palaeolithic rock art complex in western Iberia. Recently discovered panels, comprising several engraved zoomorphic figures that includes an auroch (Panel OCR20), another with a horse figure (Panel OCR22) and a bolder with another engraved auroch figure (Panel OCR21). These discoveries substantially increase the previous number of engravings that included a headless horse found in 2000 (Panel OCR15). The style of the engravings is identical to Upper Palaeolithic open-air engravings from other areas of western Iberia, including, Côa, Sabor, Tua, Siega Verde, La Salud, Zêzere valleys and Vale Boi of northern, central and southern Portugal. These new discoveries indicate the existence of concentrated assemblages of Upper Palaeolithic rock art in the Tejo Valley, overlapping the territory of an already known Holocene-dated Tejo Rock Art Complex (Garcês 2017). Similarities in setting, production, and style with other Western Iberian sites imply potential long-range contact and exchange networks involving the new ideas in artistic endeavour that are coherent with population clustering in central-western Iberia during the LGM.