bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technoeconomic Analysis for Green Hydrogen in Terms of Production, Compression, Transportation and Storage Considering the Australian Perspective
Authors: Shahabuddin M. , Rhamdhani M. A. , Brooks G. A.
Published: July 2023

This current article discusses the technoeconomics (TE) of hydrogen generation, transportation, compression and storage in the Australian context. The TE analysis is important and a prerequisite for investment decisions. This study selected the Australian context due to its huge potential in green hydrogen, but the modelling is applicable to other parts of the world, adjusting the price of electricity and other utilities. The hydrogen generation using the most mature alkaline electrolysis (AEL) technique was selected in the current study. The results show that increasing temperature from 50 to 90 °C and decreasing pressure from 13 to 5 bar help improve electrolyser performance, though pressure has a minor effect. The selected range for performance parameters was based on the fundamental behaviour of water electrolysers supported with literature. The levelised cost of hydrogen (LCH2) was calculated for generation, compression, transportation and storage. However, the majority of the LCH2 was for generation, which was calculated based on CAPEX, OPEX, capital recovery factor, hydrogen production rate and capacity factor. The LCH2 in 2023 was calculated to be 9.6 USD/kgH2 using a base-case solar electricity price of 65–38 USD/MWh. This LCH2 is expected to decrease to 6.5 and 3.4 USD/kgH2 by 2030 and 2040, respectively. The current LCH2 using wind energy was calculated to be 1.9 USD/kgH2 lower than that of solar-based electricity. The LCH2 using standalone wind electricity was calculated to be USD 5.3 and USD 2.9 in 2030 and 2040, respectively. The LCH2 predicted using a solar and wind mix (SWM) was estimated to be USD 3.2 compared to USD 9.6 and USD 7.7 using standalone solar and wind. The LCH2 under the best case was predicted to be USD 3.9 and USD 2.1 compared to USD 6.5 and USD 3.4 under base-case solar PV in 2030 and 2040, respectively. The best case SWM offers 33% lower LCH2 in 2023, which leads to 37%, 39% and 42% lower LCH2 in 2030, 2040 and 2050, respectively. The current results are overpredicted, especially compared with CSIRO, Australia, due to the higher assumption of the renewable electricity price. Currently, over two-thirds of the cost for the LCH2 is due to the price of electricity (i.e., wind and solar). Modelling suggests an overall reduction in the capital cost of AEL plants by about 50% in the 2030s. Due to the lower capacity factor (effective energy generation over maximum output) of renewable energy, especially for solar plants, a combined wind- and solar-based electrolysis plant was recommended, which can increase the capacity factor by at least 33%. Results also suggest that besides generation, at least an additional 1.5 USD/kgH2 for compression, transportation and storage is required.
Flexible Extension of the Lomax Distribution for Asymmetric Data under Different Failure Rate Profiles: Characteristics with Applications for Failure Modeling and Service Times for Aircraft Windshields
Authors: Al-Essa Laila A. , Eliwa Mohamed S. , El-Morshedy Mahmoud , Alqifari Hana , Yousof Haitham M.
Published: July 2023

A novel four-parameter lifetime Lomax model is presented and investigated within the scope of this paper. The failure rate of the innovative model can be “monotonically decreasing failure rate,” “monotonically increasing failure rate,” or “constant failure rate,” and the density of the model can be “asymmetric right skewed,” “symmetric,” “asymmetric left skewed,” or “uniform density”. The new density is expressed as a blend of the Lomax densities that have been multiplied by an exponent. New bivariate Lomax types were created for our research. The maximum likelihood technique was utilized. We performed simulated experiments for the purpose of evaluating the finite sample behavior of maximum likelihood estimators, using “biases” and “mean squared errors” as our primary metrics of analysis. The novel distribution was evaluated based on a number of pertinent Lomax models, including Lomax extensions that were generated on the basis of odd log-logistic, Kumaraswamy, beta, gamma, and Topp–Leone families, among others. The newly developed extension demonstrated its relevance by predicting the service and failure times of datasets pertaining to aircraft windshields.
Study on the Remediation of Pyrene-Contaminated Soil with Surfactants and their Mechanisms
Authors: Shen Liang , Liu Yifang , Gong Jiabao , Qiao Erle
Published: July 2023

Soil is the main aggregation site of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and an important pathway of migration to other media. In this paper, the adsorption behavior of pyrene and seven different types of surfactants on kaolinite surfaces was studied by molecular dynamics simulation and desorption testing. The molecular dynamics simulation results showed that pyrene was more easily adsorbed on the 001 (-) side of kaolinite. SDBS, SDS, TW80, and TX-100 had strong interactions with pyrene, encapsulating pyrene molecules in aggregates. However, when the concentration of surfactant was too high, the desorption of pyrene molecules on a kaolinite surface will be inhibited. The desorption of pyrene molecules will be inhibited in the presence of BS-12, TW80, and TX-100, while the desorption process can be promoted by using CTAC, DDBAC, SDBS, and SDS as soil remediation agents. The removal rate of pyrene gradually increased with the increase of SDS dosage, while for SDBS, the removal rate showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing. When the concentration of SDS was 0.014 mol/L, the elution rate of pyrene reached 72.86%. The molecular dynamics simulation results were similar to the desorption test results, verifying the reliability of molecular dynamics simulation. The research results provide theoretical support for the selection of surfactants in the remediation process of pyrene-contaminated soil.
An Experimental Study on the Impact of the Particle Size and Proportion of Composite Proppant on the Conductivity of Propped Fractures in Coalbed Methane Reservoirs following Pulverized Coal Fines Infiltration
Authors: Chen Qing , Huang Zhiqiang , Huang Hao , Chen Qi , Ling Xingjie , Xin Fubin , Kong Xiangwei
Published: July 2023

Coalbed methane reservoirs exhibit a low strength and high heterogeneity, rendering them susceptible to coal fines generation during hydraulic fracturing operations. The detrimental impact of coal fines on the conductivity of the propped fracture has been overlooked, leading to a substantial negative effect on the later-stage recovery of coalbed methane reservoirs. Moreover, the particle size distribution of the composite proppant also affects the conductivity of the propped fracture. To mitigate the damage caused by coal fines to the conductivity of the proppant pack in CBM reservoirs, this study conducted conductivity tests on actual coal rock fractures. The aim was to assess the effect of various particle size ratios in composite proppant blends on the conductivity of complex fractures in CBM reservoirs. The ultimate goal was to identify an optimized proppant blending approach that is suitable for hydraulic fracturing in coal seams. The results indicated that, in terms of the short-term conductivity of coalbed methane reservoirs, the conductivity of composite proppants is primarily influenced by the proportion of large or small particles. A higher proportion of large particles corresponds to a stronger conductivity (e.g., the conductivity is highest at a particle ratio of 5:1:1 for large, medium, and small particles). On the other hand, a higher proportion of small particles leads to a poorer conductivity (the conductivity is lowest when the particle ratio is 1:1:5). In the long-term conductivity of coalbed methane reservoirs, the fluid flushing of the fracture surfaces generates coal fines, and small particles can fill the gaps between larger particles, hindering the infiltration of coal fines. Therefore, it is important to control the particle size ratio of composite proppants, with a predominant proportion of larger particles. This approach can maintain long-term conductivity and prevent the excessive infiltration of coal fines, thereby avoiding fracture blockage (e.g., the conductivity is highest at a particle ratio of 5:1:5, followed by a ratio of 3:1:3). Furthermore, considering the influence of proppant placement methods and the support effect on near-wellbore opening fractures and far-end sliding fractures, segmented placement is utilized to fully fill the fractures for short-term conductivity, whereas mixed placement is employed for long-term conductivity to achieve a balance in particle gaps and hinder the infiltration of coal fines. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of proppant selection and placement strategies for efficient hydraulic fracturing in coalbed methane reservoirs.
A Review of CO2 Marine Geological Sequestration
Authors: Sun Xiang , Shang Anran , Wu Peng , Liu Tao , Li Yanghui
Published: July 2023

Carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration plays a crucial role in reducing the levels of atmospheric CO2 and mitigating the harmful effects of global warming. Among the various CO2 sequestration technologies, CO2 marine geological sequestration emerges as a safer and more efficient alternative compared with traditional terrestrial geological sequestration. This is highly attributed to its expansive potential, safe distance from aquifers, and stable temperature and pressure conditions. This paper reviews and evaluates the main CO2 marine geological sequestration technologies, including CO2 sequestrations in shallow marine sediments, CO2, sub-seabed aquifers, and CO2-CH4 replacement. The goal of this paper is to shed light on the mechanism, potential, and challenges of each technology. Given the importance of safety in CO2 sequestration, this review also explores the potential adverse effects of CO2 leakage from reservoirs, particularly its impact on marine environments. Finally, we discuss potential development trends in CO2 marine geological technology.
Numerical Simulation of Electrical Properties of Carbonate Reservoirs Using Digital Rocks
Authors: Hou Yuting , Liu Die , Zhao Taiping , Zhou Jinyu , Tian Lili , Kou Xiaopan , Zhu Baoding , Nie Xin
Published: July 2023

Rock electrical experiments are essential means of researching the conductive properties of rocks and are fundamental to interpreting resistivity logging. Carbonate rocks have more complex pore structures than sandstone, which results in more complex conductive properties. However, conducting experiments on representative rock samples from carbonate reservoirs is difficult, making it challenging to study the micro factors affecting electrical properties. Therefore, researching the conductive properties of carbonate rocks is difficult. To address this, in this paper, three-dimensional (3D) digital rock models with different porosities are generated, and conductive simulations are carried out on these models using the finite element method (FEM). Firstly, a micro-computed tomography (μ-CT) 3D image of a carbonate rock is obtained. Secondly, mathematical morphology-based methods are used on the μ-CT image to generate cores with varying porosities and fluid distributions. Then, the electrical properties are simulated using the FEM method, and the results are analyzed. The results reveal that the formation factor of the reservoir is mainly influenced by the shape and structure of the pores. The Archie equation is more suitable for carbonate reservoirs with water saturation levels greater than 60%. The wettability of the rock can alter the distribution of fluid in the reservoir space under different water saturation conditions. In pure water-wet rocks, the water phase mainly occupies small pores, while the oil phase occupies larger pores. As a result, compared to pure oil-wet rocks, water-wet rocks have more conductive channels and better conductivity. Therefore, it is important to determine the wettability of the rock when calculating water saturation using the Archie equation. The saturation index value of water-wet carbonate rock is about 2, while that of oil-wet rock is around 3–4. This research lays a foundation for studying the electrical conductivity of carbonate reservoirs using digital rocks.
Design Optimization of Electrical Structure Parameters of Induction Asynchronous Mechanical–Electric–Hydraulic Power Coupler
Authors: Wang Junyi , Zhang Tiezhu , Zhang Hongxin , Zhang Zhen , Chen Hao
Published: July 2023

In response to the problems of considerable size, loose structure, and low energy conversion efficiency of multi-energy power coupling devices, this paper makes improvements based on the mechanical–electric–hydraulic power coupler proposed by our research group. We propose a new asynchronous mechanical–electric–hydraulic power coupler (IA-MEHPC). This mechanism integrates a traditional three-phase asynchronous motor with a swashplate axial piston pump/motor to realize the mutual conversion of electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic energy. Compactness, efficiency, and adaptability are the distinguishing features of the complex. This paper builds a three-dimensional model of the IA-MEHPC and a two-dimensional theoretical model of the electrical structure (motor part). Moreover, the electrical structure parameters of the IA-MEHPC are optimized using an approximate response surface-based optimization method. The maximum motor peak torque and minimum torque fluctuation are identified as optimization objectives, and we obtain the optimal combination of parameters. The simulation results show that, compared to the pre-optimized structure, the peak motor torque of the optimized IA-MEHPC is increased by 5.78%, and the torque pulsation coefficient is reduced by 15.83%, in line with engineering practice expectations. This paper innovatively proposes and optimizes IA-MEHPC, which is significant for developing hybrid mechanical devices and subsequent research.
Heterologous Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Severe Skin Damage
Authors: Vocca Cristina , Romano Francesco , Marcianò Gianmarco , Cianconi Vincenzo , Mirra Davida , Dominijanni Andrea , De Sarro Giovambattista , Gallelli Luca
Published: July 2023

Accidental soft tissue injuries are a frequent injury. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an interesting therapeutic option for wounds and skin damage. In this case report, we describe a 37-year-old man that presented to our ward of pain medicine for an accidental severe leg injury associated with skin and soft tissue loss, with severe pain and poor sensation. History revealed the use of recreational drugs without viral infections or systemic diseases. Wound debridement, wound dressings, systemic antibiotics (amoxicillin 1000 mg tid and azithromycin 500 mg od), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen 600 mg bid) reduced pain but did not improve the skin and soft tissue. A fibrin membrane with concentrated growth factors was applied, yielding an improvement in the injury in 16 months without the need for skin grafting.
Air-Purge Regenerative Direct Air Capture Using an Externally Heated and Cooled Temperature-Swing Adsorber Packed with Solid Amine
Authors: Vannak Heak , Osaka Yugo , Tsujiguchi Takuya , Kodama Akio
Published: July 2023

CO2 capture from air is crucial in achieving negative emissions. Based on conventional or newly developed high-enriching processes, we investigated the rough enrichment of CO2 from air via an externally heated or cooled adsorber (temperature-swing adsorption, TSA), along with air purge using double-pipe heat exchangers packed with low-volatility polyamine-loaded silica. A simple adsorption–desorption cycle was attempted in a TSA experiment, by varying the temperature from 20 °C to 60 °C using moist air, yielding an average CO2 concentration of product gas that was ~17 times higher than the feed air, but the CO2 recovery rate was poor. A double-step adsorption process was applied to increase CO2 adsorption and recovery simultaneously. In this process, substantial-CO2-concentration gas was used as the product gas, and the remaining gas was used as the reflux feed gas for adsorber. This method can provide a product gas with ~100 times higher CO2 concentration than raw gas, with a recovery ratio ~60% under the shortest adsorption/desorption time and the longest refluxing time of cycle operation. Therefore, the refluxing step significantly helped to enhance CO2 capture via adsorption from elevated-CO2-concentration recirculating gas. With this CO2 concentration, the product gas can serve as the CO2 supplement for the growing plant processes.
An Industrial Case Study on the Monitoring and Maintenance Service System for a Robot-Driven Polishing Service System under Industry 4.0 Contexts
Authors: Yang Yuqian , Yang Maolin , Shangguan Siwei , Cao Yifan , Yue Wei , Cheng Kaiqiang , Jiang Pingyu
Published: July 2023

Remote monitoring and maintenance are important for improving the performance of production systems. However, existing studies on this topic usually focus on the monitoring and maintenance of the working conditions of the equipment and pay relatively less attention to the processing craft and processing quality. In addition, as far as we know, there are relatively few industrial case studies on the real applications of remote monitoring and maintenance systems that include both conventional and advanced maintenance techniques under the context of Industry 4.0. Addressing these issues, an industrial case study on the monitoring and maintenance service system for a robot-driven carbon block polishing service system is presented, including its application background and engineering problems, software/hardware architecture and running logic, the monitoring and maintenance-related enabling techniques, and the configuration and operation workflows of the system in the form of screenshots of the functional WebAPPs of the software system. The case study can provide real examples and references for the industrial application of remote monitoring and maintenance service systems on industrial product service systems under the context of Industry 4.0. Advanced techniques such as the Industrial Internet of Things, digital twins, deep learning, and edge/cloud/fog computing have been applied to the system.
Accumulation Pattern and Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements in Permafrost-Affected Agricultural Soils in Northeast China
Authors: Yu Junbo , Zhou Chuanfang , Yang Ke , Sun Qifa , Zhang Qipeng , Yang Zhiwei , Chen Yangyang
Published: July 2023

The accumulation of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in agricultural soils is of particular concern in China, while its status, ecological risks, and human health hazards have been little studied in the permafrost areas of Northeast China. In this study, 75 agricultural soil samples (0–20 cm) were collected from the Arctic Village, Mo’he City, in the northernmost part of China. The average concentration (mean ± standard deviation) of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn were 12.11 ± 3.66 mg/kg, 0.11 ± 0.08 mg/kg, 52.50 ± 8.83 mg/kg, 12.08 ± 5.12 mg/kg, 0.05 ± 0.02 mg/kg, 14.90 ± 5.35 mg/kg, 22.38 ± 3.04 mg/kg, and 68.07 ± 22.71 mg/kg, respectively. Correlation analysis, cluster analysis, and principal component analysis indicated that As, Cu, Ni, and Zn likely originated from geogenic processes, Hg and Pb from long-range atmospheric transport, Cd from planting activities, and Cr from Holocene alluvium. The geo-accumulation index and enrichment factor showed that As, Cd, Hg, and Zn are enriched in soils. The Nemerow pollution index showed that 66.67%, 24%, and 1.33% of soil samples were in slight, moderate, and heavy pollution levels, respectively, with Hg being the most important element affecting the comprehensive pollution index. The potential ecological risk index showed that 48.00% and 1.33% of soil samples were in the moderate ecological risk and high potential ecological risk levels, respectively. The non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic human health risk index for adults and children were both less than 1, which was within the acceptable range. This study revealed the accumulation pattern of PTEs in agricultural soils of permafrost regions and provided a scientific basis for research on ecological security and human health.
A Multiphase Coupled Hydrodynamic Model for Fate and Transport Simulation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in a Semi-Closed Narrow Bay
Authors: Cheng Jiayi , Wang Ying , Li Yuxia , Kong Lingna , Wang Xiaomeng , Han Jianbo
Published: July 2023

With their unique geographical characteristics, semi-closed narrow bays are important places for human survival but vulnerable to pollution. Because pollutants (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, PAHs) migrate and undergo transformation through a dynamic mechanism in bays of this type, environmental authorities have formulated a series of effective measures for pollution prevention and control, but these are difficult to realize. Based on monitoring and historical data, a multiphase-coupled hydrodynamic model combined with a carcinogenic risk-assessment model was able to solve the challenging environmental problem. Results showed that the hydrodynamic condition in the semi-closed narrow bay was very complex. A weaker hydrodynamic force had an adverse influence on the diffusion of pollutants, further amplified in part by the head of the semi-closed narrow bay, resulting in a higher ecological risk. The prediction results indicated that the total amount of PAHs transported from seawater to sediments was about 4.7 × 1013 ng/year, which might cause serious threats to aquaculture or human health.
Characterization and Risk Assessment of PM2.5-Bound Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and their Derivatives Emitted from a Typical Pesticide Factory in China
Authors: Wang Diwei , Wu Shengmin , Gong Xuesong , Ding Tao , Lei Yali , Sun Jian , Shen Zhenxing
Published: July 2023

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their derivatives have received extensive attention due to their negative effects on the environment and on human health. However, few studies have performed comprehensive assessments of PAHs emitted from pesticide factories. This study assessed the concentration, composition, and health risk of 52 PM2.5-bound PAHs during the daytime and nighttime in the vicinity of a typical pesticide factory. The total concentration of 52 PAHs (Σ52PAHs) ranged from 53.04 to 663.55 ng/m3. No significant differences were observed between daytime and nighttime PAH concentrations. The average concentrations of twenty-two parent PAHs, seven alkylated PAHs, ten oxygenated PAHs, and twelve nitrated PAHs were 112.55 ± 89.69, 18.05 ± 13.76, 66.13 ± 54.79, and 3.90 ± 2.24 ng/m3, respectively. A higher proportion of high-molecular-weight (4–5 rings) PAHs than low-molecular-weight (2–3 rings) PAHs was observed. This was likely due to the high-temperature combustion of fuels. Analysis of diagnostic ratios indicated that the PAHs were likely derived from coal combustion and mixed sources. The total carcinogenic equivalent toxicity ranged from 15.93 to 181.27 ng/m3. The incremental lifetime cancer risk from inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact with the PAHs was 2.33 × 10−3 for men and 2.53 × 10−3 for women, and the loss of life expectancy due to the PAHs was 11,915 min (about 0.023 year) for men and 12,952 min (about 0.025 year) for women. These results suggest that long-term exposure to PM2.5 emissions from a pesticide factory has significant adverse effects on health. The study results support implementing the characterization of PAH emissions from pesticide factories and provides a scientific basis for optimizing the living environment around pesticide factories.
Space Syntax with Logic Programming: An Application to a Modern Estate
Authors: Fernandes Pedro Afonso
Published: July 2023

Space syntax is a set of theories and techniques for analysing urban settlements and buildings. Here, we propose a new approach to perform syntactic analyses that requires only the declaration in a computer program of the connections between axial lines or convex spaces using Prolog, a logic programming language concerned with artificial intelligence. With this new tool, we found that the deep tree nature of modern estates can be mitigated with a concentric structure similar to the famous Bororo village. In fact, Portela, a high-rise settlement near Lisbon (Portugal), is structured around a central open space (green park) equipped with noninterchangeable facilities (mall, sports centre and church), which are highly synchronised with the surrounding buildings (towers and blocks). The transpatial relations between housing estates and the central zone are maximised either by a distributive ringy network or by a smart grid of pedestrian paths. The result is a compact and integrated settlement with a strong identity and sense of belonging. Nevertheless, this kind of concentric dual system is potentially unstable, a problem that was minimised by forcing a clear opposition with a popular neighbourhood at Portela’s vicinity. With this case study, we show how logic programming is a useful tool to describe the patterns of discrete systems as social knowables due to its declarative nature. In fact, a Prolog program represents a certain amount of knowledge, namely, concerned with the structure of an urban settlement (or building), which could be used to answer queries about the social and economic consequences of certain spatial designs.
Testing Efficacy of a Conserved Polypeptide from the Bm86 Protein against Rhipicephalus microplus in the Mexican Tropics
Authors: Coate Raymundo , Alonso-Díaz Miguel Ángel , Martínez-Velázquez Moisés , Castro-Saines Edgar , Hernández-Ortiz Rubén , Lagunes-Quintanilla Rodolfo
Published: July 2023

Rhipicephalus microplus economically impacts cattle production in tropical and subtropical countries. Application of acaricides constitutes the major control method; however, inadequate use has increased resistant tick populations, resulting in environmental and cattle product contamination. Anti-tick vaccines based on the Bm86 antigen are an environmentally friendly, safe, and economically sustainable alternative for controlling R. microplus infestations. Nevertheless, variable efficacy has been experienced against different geographic tick strains. Herein, we evaluated the efficacy of a conserved polypeptide Bm86 derived from a Mexican R. microplus strain previously characterized. Twelve cows were assigned to three experimental groups and immunized with three doses of the polypeptide Bm86 (pBm86), adjuvant/saline alone, and Bm86 antigen (control +), respectively. Specific IgG antibody levels were measured by ELISA and confirmed by Western blot. In addition, the reproductive performance of naturally infested R. microplus was also determined. The more affected parameter was the adult female tick number, with a reduction of 44% by the pBm86 compared to the controls (p < 0.05), showing a vaccine efficacy of 58%. Anti-pBm86 IgG antibodies were immunogenic and capable of recognizing the native Bm86 protein in the eggs, larvae, and guts of R. microplus. The negative correlation between antibody levels and the reduction of naturally tick-infested cattle suggested that the effect of the polypeptide Bm86 was attributed to the antibody response in immunized cattle. In conclusion, the polypeptide Bm86 showed a specific immune response in cattle and conferred protection against R. microplus in a Mexican tropical region. These findings support further experiments with this antigen to demonstrate its effectiveness as a regional vaccine.
Predictors of Tetanus Vaccine Uptake among Pregnant Women in Khartoum State, Sudan: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ibrahim Zienab A. , Sabahelzain Majdi M. , Elhadi Yasir Ahmed Mohammed , Malande Ombeva Oliver , Babiker Suad
Published: July 2023

Tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccination during pregnancy has been proven as an effective preventative measure to reduce the incidence of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study aimed to assess the determinants of TT vaccine uptake among pregnant women at two public maternity specialized hospitals in Sudan. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at two public hospitals, Omdurman Maternity Hospital and Al Saudi Hospital in Omdurman, Khartoum State, in Sudan from February to April 2020. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify factors associated with receiving three or more doses of the TT vaccine among pregnant women, presented as odds ratios, with p-values < 0.05 considered significant (at a 95% confidence interval). The study recruited 350 pregnant women, with 313 participants included in the analysis. This study found that only 40% of the pregnant women had received three doses or more of the TT vaccine. Pregnant women who attended Al Saudi Hospital were less likely to be vaccinated with the recommended dose of the TT vaccine in districts at high risk (received ≥3 doses) compared to those who attended Omdurman Hospital [OR = 0.49 (95% C.I. 0.29–0.82), p-value < 0.05]. Furthermore, the number of children at home was a significant predictor of the mothers’ immunization status as those with five children or more were ten times more likely to be vaccinated with three doses or more [OR = 10.54 (95% C.I. 4.30–25.86), p-value < 0.05]. We conclude that this low rate of TT vaccine uptake found in this study among pregnant women increases the number of newborn babies susceptible to contracting neonatal tetanus. The findings of this study should be considered in the development of communication strategies targeting and prioritizing at-risk groups to increase TT vaccine uptake among pregnant women in Sudan.
Use of Information and Communication Technology Strategies to Increase Vaccination Coverage in Older Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Buja Alessandra , Grotto Giulia , Taha Mustapha , Cocchio Silvia , Baldo Vincenzo
Published: July 2023

Background: Coverage rates of routinely recommended vaccines in older adults still fall below the targets established by international and national advisory committees. As a result, related diseases still have a high incidence, morbidity, and mortality. Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) could provide useful tools to improve immunization rates by bringing information directly to the target user at a relatively low cost. The present research aims to systematically review recent literature on interventions applying ICT to improve the uptake of influenza, pneumococcal, COVID-19 and herpes zoster immunization rates among older adults. Methods: Studies published in English between 1 January 2000 and 10 November 2022 were identified by searching electronic medical databases (PubMed, Scopus) and were independently reviewed by two different authors. A total of 22 studies were included in this review. Findings: Interventions applied the following ICT tools: phone calls, text messages, messages sent via personal electronic medical records, automated phone calls, remote patient monitoring in a home telehealth program and emails. In terms of the vaccines promoted, 11 studies prompted the influenza vaccine, four prompted the influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, three the pneumococcal vaccine, two the herpes zoster vaccine, one the COVID-19 vaccine and one both the pneumococcal and herpes zoster vaccines. Overall, more than half of the studies (n = 12) found some level of effectiveness of these ICT strategies in increasing vaccination rates among older adults, while five studies were partially effective (for specific vaccines or population subgroups), and five reported no significant effect. Conclusions: Prevention programs using ICT tools could be effective in promoting immunizations among older adults.
Genetic Diversity of Newcastle Disease Virus Involved in the 2021 Outbreaks in Backyard Poultry Farms in Tanzania
Authors: Amoia Charlie F. , Hakizimana Jean N. , Duggal Nisha K. , Chengula Augustino A. , Rohaim Mohammed A. , Munir Muhammad , Weger-Lucarelli James , Misinzo Gerald
Published: July 2023

Newcastle disease virus is a significant avian pathogen with the potential to decimate poultry populations all over the world and cause enormous economic losses. Distinct NDV genotypes are currently causing outbreaks worldwide. Due to the high genetic diversity of NDV, virulent strains that may result in a lack of vaccine protection are more likely to emerge and ultimately cause larger epidemics with massive economic losses. Thus, a more comprehensive understanding of the circulating NDV genotypes is critical to reduce Newcastle disease (ND) burden. In this study, NDV strains were isolated and characterized from backyard poultry farms from Tanzania, East Africa in 2021. Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) based on fusion (F) gene amplification was conducted on 79 cloacal or tracheal swabs collected from chickens during a suspected ND outbreak. Our results revealed that 50 samples out 79 (50/79; 63.3%) were NDV-positive. Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses of the selected NDV isolates showed that 39 isolates belonged to subgenotype VII.2 and only one isolate belonged to subgenotype XIII.1.1. Nucleotide sequences of the NDV F genes from Tanzania were closely related to recent NDV isolates circulating in southern Africa, suggesting that subgenotype VII.2 is the predominant subgenotype throughout Tanzania and southern Africa. Our data confirm the circulation of two NDV subgenotypes in Tanzania, providing important information to design genotype-matched vaccines and to aid ND surveillance. Furthermore, these results highlight the possibility of the spread and emergence of new NDV subgenotypes with the potential of causing future ND epizootics.
Prospective Study Comparing Outcome following Complete Polypropylene Suture Ligation versus Partial Thin Film Band Attenuation of Congenital Portosystemic Shunts in Dogs
Authors: Lipscomb Victoria , Cassie Chloe , Ritchie Ben , Greenhalgh Stephen , Tivers Mickey
Published: July 2023

The main objective was to conduct a prospective study reporting the outcome for dogs with an extrahepatic congenital portosystemic shunt (CPSS) treated with a ‘complete ligation where possible’ philosophy. The second aim was to compare the outcomes following complete (C) polypropylene suture ligation versus partial thin film band (TFB) attenuation of a CPSS in dogs. Dogs that could not tolerate acute complete shunt ligation at surgery received partial shunt attenuation with TFB. Peri-operative complications, mortality, follow-up imaging findings, pre- and post-operative bile acid stimulation test results and details of any revision surgery performed were recorded. A follow-up health-related quality of life questionnaire enabled the calculation of a postoperative clinical shunt score, a quality of life score, and determined if any dogs were still on a hepatic diet and/or other medical management at a minimum of 6 months after surgery. Of the 110 dogs enrolled, 57 received complete ligation and 53 received partial TFB attenuation. Peri-operative mortality, the occurrence of post-attenuation neurological complications, the occurrence of multiple acquired shunts, the postoperative clinical shunt score and quality of life score were not significantly different between the two groups. Dogs in the C group were older, heavier and demonstrated a greater number of shunt classifications where the entry into the systemic circulation was the phrenic vein or azygous vein. Dogs in the TFB group had a greater number of unchanged bile acid concentrations after surgery, were more likely to remain on the hepatic diet and/or medical management after surgery and underwent a greater number of revision surgeries. There was variability in the precision of both ultrasound and computed tomographic angiography follow-up imaging compared to intra-operative mesenteric portovenography findings at revision surgery. Overall, dogs with an extrahepatic portosystemic shunt receiving either complete acute shunt ligation or partial TFB shunt attenuation are expected to have an excellent long-term clinical outcome and there is no reason to suggest that a dog able to tolerate complete acute shunt closure should be denied the benefit of this.
Effects of Plasma Nitriding Temperature on the Properties of 1.3207 Type High Speed Steel
Authors: Korsós Krisztián , Kovács Dorina
Published: July 2023

Kutatásunk során 1.3207 (HS10-4-3-10) gyorsacél próbatesten végeztünk aktív ernyős plazmanitridálást három különböző, kicsinek számító nitridálási hőmérsékleten, miközben a nitridálás további paramétereit egységesen tartottuk. Azt követően további két kezelést végeztünk eltérő nitridálási idő mellett. Az elkészült próbatestek keresztmetszetén mikroszerkezeti vizsgálatokat végeztünk, a felületi összetételüket energiadiszperzív röntgenspektrometriával határoztuk meg. Továbbá a keresztmetszeten és a felületeken vizsgáltuk a keménységet. Vizsgálataink eredményeként elmondható, hogy az aktív ernyős plazmanitridálás technológiájával jelentősen, akár 50%-kal is növelhető a kutatás során használt minta felületi keménysége.
HUBUNGAN PEMBELAJARAN ONLINE DENGAN KEJADIAN STRES PADA MAHASISWA DI FAKULTAS ILMU KESEHATAN UNIVERSITAS ISLAM AS-SYAFI’IYAH PADA MASA PANDEMI COVID-19
Authors: Idris Muhamad
Published: July 2023

Based on the circular letter of the Ministry of Education and Culture (Kemendikbud) Directorate of Higher Education No.  1 year 2020 during the covid-19 pandemic, universities eliminated teaching and learning activities on campus and shifted them to distance learning (online).  In online learning at the Faculty of Health Sciences As-Syafi'iyah Islamic University the implementation of online lectures raises several obstacles such as the internet network and assignments that become stressors for students.  The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between online learning and the incidence of stress in students at the Faculty of Health Sciences, As-Syafi'iyah Islamic University during the Covid-19 pandemic.  The research method used descriptive correlation with a cross sectional approach, a population of 184 students consisting of semesters 2, 4, and 6. The sample uses the slovin formula to 65 students taken by proportional sampling technique. The analysis used univariate and biavariate using Chi-Square test = 5% (0.05).  The results of the univariate analysis (%) showed a good picture of online learning 55.4% and the incidence of stress was 43.1%, bivariate analysis obtained p or Asym values.  Sig.  (2-sided) = 0.209 with a value of = 5% (0.05).  The conclusion is that there is no relationship between online learning and the incidence of stress in students at the Faculty of Health Sciences, As-Syafi'iyah Islamic University during the Covid-19 pandemic.  Suggestions are that students are expected to be more active in class forums such as asking about material that has not been understood and activating the zoom camera.
Establishing Cause-Effect Relationships from Medical Treatment Data in Intensive Care Unit Settings
Authors: Yimer Mohammed Abebe , Aktaş Özlem , Sevinç Süleyman , Şişman Ali Rıza
Published: July 2023

Various studies use numerous probabilistic methods to establish a cause-effect relationship between a drug and a disease. However, only a limited number of machine learning studies on establishing cause-effect relationships can be found on the internet. In this study, we explore machine learning approaches for interpreting large quantities of multivariate patient-based laboratory data for establishing cause-effect relationships for critically ill patients. We adopt principal component analysis as a primary method to capture daily patient changes after a medical intervention so that the causal relationship between the medical treatments and the outcomes can be established. Model validity and stability are evaluated using bootstrap testing. The model exhibits an acceptable significance level with a two-tailed test. Moreover, results show that the approach provides promising results in interpreting large quantities of patient data and establishing cause-effect relationships for making informed decisions for critically ill patients. If fused with other machine learning and probabilistic models, the proposed approach can provide the healthcare industry with an added tool for daily routine clinical practices. Furthermore, the approach will be able to support clinical decision-making and enable effective patient-tailored care for better health outcomes.
Design and Study of Zombie Enterprise Classification and Recognition Systems Based on Ensemble Learning
Authors: Pang Shutong , Yang Ziwei , Cai Chengyou , Li Zhimin
Published: July 2023

The existence of a large number of zombie enterprises will affect the economic development and hinder the transformation and upgrading of economic industries. To improve the accuracy of zombie enterprise identification, this paper takes multidimensional enterprise data as the original data set, divides it into training set and validation set, and gives the corresponding data pre-processing methods. Combined with 14 standardized features, an integrated learning model for zombie enterprise classification and recognition is constructed and studied based on three pattern recognition algorithms. By using the idea of integration and the cross-validation method to determine the optimal parameters, the Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT), linear kernel Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Deep Neural Network (DNN) algorithms with classification accuracies of 95%, 96% and 96%, respectively, are used as sub-models, and a more comprehensive strong supervision model with a classification accuracy of 98% is obtained by the stacking method in combination with the advantages of multiple sub-models to analyze the fundamental information of 30885 enterprises. The study improves the accuracy of zombie enterprise identification to 98%, builds enterprise portraits based on this, and finally visualizes the classification results through the platform, which provides an auxiliary means for zombie enterprise classification and identification.
أثر إدارة المعرفة في تحقيق الاسبقيات التنافسية في قطاع الصناعة في دولة الكويت
Authors: الجزاع الشمري جاسم
Published: July 2023

هدَفت الدراسة الحالية إلى الوقوف على ممارسات إدارة المعرفة وأثرها على تحقيق الأسبقيات التنافسية ضمن قطاع الصناعة الكويتي. ومن خلال تبني المنهج الكمي ، تم بناء استبيان وتوزيعه على (251) من العاملين في منظمات القطاع الصناعي الكويتي. توصلت الدراسة إلى نتيجة مفادها أن هناك أثر ذو دلالة إحصائية لأبعاد إدارة المعرفة على تحقيق الأسبقيات التنافسية تراوحت بين المنخفض والمتوسط ، حيث أثبتت الدراسة أن متغيري النشر والتطبيق كانا الأعلى تأثراً مقارنة بمتغيري التوليد والتخزين. وبذلك توصي الدراسة بضرورة إعداد استراتيجيات وخطط تدريبية للأفراد العاملين وخصوصاً القادة حول أفضل الآليات المتبعة والحديثة من أجل نشر وتطبيق المعرفة وتحديداً أنظمة دعم القرار المستند إلى المعرفة والذكاء الاصطناعي، بالإضافة إلى توعية الأفراد العاملين حول أهمية الميزة التنافسية وضرورة تحقيق أسبقيات تنافسية من أجل ضمان سهولة مواجهة المنافسين في السوق.
Oral Health Indices in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Receiving Insulin Treatment Compared With Metformin: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Katebi Katayoun , Aghazadeh Zahra , Sadra Vahideh , Aghazadeh Marziyeh , Lak Mohammad , Habibivand Ehsan
Published: July 2023

Objectives: Due to the important influence of glycemic control on oral health, this study aimed to compare the gingival index and decayed, missing, filled teeth (DMFT) in participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus receiving insulin and metformin. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 130 participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with insulin and metformin were studied in two groups based on the type of treatment. The information for DMFT and gingival indices were obtained using the oral examination. In the insulin group, participants received insulin Lantus 0.2 unit/kg once daily, and in the metformin group, participants received metformin tablets 500 mg every 12 hours. Glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was measured by lab test in all participants. Finally, HbA1c, the information of DMFT, and gingival indices were compared between the two groups. Results: The results showed that there were no statistically significant differences in decayed, missed, and restored teeth, as well as the overall DMFT index between the two groups. The gingival index was significantly higher in the insulin group (P=0.046). Conclusions: Gingival health of insulin users is poorer than metformin users, but it seems that type of diabetes treatment does not affect the DMFT index
Intellectual Property Protection in Industrial Design: Focusing on the Copyright Act and the Design Protection Act
Authors:   LAW RESEARCH INSTITUTE CHUNGBUK NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, Kwon Chihyun
Published: July 2023

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) includes industrial design, which refers to the 'decorative and aesthetic form of useful goods', in the subject of intellectual property protection on the premise of being applied or used in relation to industry. These industrial designs are protected by applied art works under the Copyright Act or design under the Design Protection Act. Applied art works are art works that can be reproduced in the same shape in an article, and must be distinguished from the article used, and contain design. On the other hand, under the Design Protection Act, design is a shape, pattern, color, or a combination of them, which refers to creating aesthetics through the eyes. In the end, both are substantially the same because they use what is expressed or designed on the article as a protective object, the problem of conflict of rights arises due to differences in overlapping protection or protection period. As to a way to solve such a problem, in Article 2-15 of the Copyright Act, needs to revise the meaning of “including design, etc.” to “including design, etc. expressed in goods” because it can cause confusion with the design under the Design Protection Act, and introduce design definition regulations to clarify the meaning of the design. In addition, the Design Protection Act needs to include applied art in the type of design and to introduce a definition that the applied art is limited to “something that can be distinguished from goods and recognize its independence”, in addition as to the design application, to revise the decision to reject or invalidate registration by prior applied art works. In order to solve the problem caused by the difference in the protection period between the two, it is necessary to establish a new regulation in the Copyright Act that limits the effect of copyright in the implementation of designs with expired protection periods.