bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elastic stable intramedullary nail combined with Kirschner wire (E-K) technique for treating pediatric distal tibial diaphyseal metaphyseal junction (DTDMJ) fractures
Authors: Liu Yunlong , Ding Sheng , Yang Yancai
Published: April 2024

Objective

Elastic stable intramedullary nail (ESIN) is a commonly used method for treating diaphyseal fractures of the tibia, but its application in Distal Tibial Diaphyseal Metaphyseal Junction (DTDMJ) fractures has been a subject of controversy. This study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy of the Elastic stable intramedullary nail-Kirschner wire (E-K) technique in treating pediatric DTDMJ fractures, providing better clinical decision-making for clinicians in diagnosing and treating such fractures.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients aged 3–9 years who received treatment at our hospital from January 2019–January 2021 for distal tibial diaphyseal metaphyseal junction (DTDMJ) fractures. Based on their surgical procedures, they were categorized into the Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nail—Kirschner wire group (E-K) and the ESIN group. Demographic data, surgical duration, clinical outcomes, complications, and imaging data were recorded.

Results

The study included a total of 57 patients, with 24 cases in the E-K group and 33 cases in the ESIN group. There were 30 males and 27 females. The average age was (6.25 ± 1.59) years in the E-K group and (6.27 ± 1.48) years in the ESIN group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of gender, age, weight, time from injury to surgery, follow-up time, side of injury, associated injuries, nail site infection, deep infection, and nail removal time (P > 0.05). Neither group experienced nonunion or refracture. The E-K group exhibited significantly lower coronal and sagittal plane angular values at the final follow-up compared to the ESIN group (P < 0.001). In the E-K group, the final follow-up coronal plane angle was 2.67 (1.09)°, while in the ESIN group, it was 6.55 (2.05)°. The final follow-up sagittal plane angle was 3.12 (1.54)° in the E-K group and 7.58 (1.48)° in the ESIN group. Both groups showed good alignment in the initial postoperative x-rays, with no statistically significant differences. However, during clinical healing, the ESIN group exhibited significant displacement, whereas the E-K group had minimal displacement, demonstrating a significant statistical difference (P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant difference in the AOFAS joint function assessment between the two groups (P = 0.027).

Conclusion

The E-K technique is a viable option for treating DTDMJ fractures in pediatric patients, with well-established clinical efficacy. Its advantages include a straightforward surgical procedure, safety, and a low incidence of severe complications.
The effect of black cohosh extract and risedronate coadministration on bone health in an ovariectomized rat model
Authors: Inselman Amy L. , Masters Elysia A. , Moore Jalina N. , Agarwal Rajiv , Gassman Audrey , Kuijpers Gemma , Beger Richard D. , Delclos Kenneth B. , Swift Sybil , Camacho Luísa , Vanlandingham Michelle M. , Sloper Daniel , Nakamura Noriko , Gamboa da Costa Gonçalo , Woodling Kellie , Bryant Matthew , Trbojevich Raul , Wu Qiangen , McLellen Florence , Christner Donna
Published: April 2024

Preparations of black cohosh extract are sold as dietary supplements marketed to relieve the vasomotor symptoms of menopause, and some studies suggest it may protect against postmenopausal bone loss. Postmenopausal women are also frequently prescribed bisphosphonates, such as risedronate, to prevent osteoporotic bone loss. However, the pharmacodynamic interactions between these compounds when taken together is not known. To investigate possible interactions, 6-month-old, female Sprague-Dawley rats underwent bilateral ovariectomy or sham surgery and were treated for 24 weeks with either vehicle, ethinyl estradiol, risedronate, black cohosh extract or coadministration of risedronate and black cohosh extract, at low or high doses. Bone mineral density (BMD) of the femur, tibia, and lumbar vertebrae was then measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) at weeks 0, 8, 16, and 24. A high dose of risedronate significantly increased BMD of the femur and vertebrae, while black cohosh extract had no significant effect on BMD individually and minimal effects upon coadministration with risedronate. Under these experimental conditions, black cohosh extract alone had no effect on BMD, nor did it negatively impact the BMD-enhancing properties of risedronate.
Efficient residual network using hyperspectral images for corn variety identification
Authors: Li Xueyong , Zhai Mingjia , Zheng Liyuan , Zhou Ling , Xie Xiwang , Zhao Wenyi , Zhang Weidong
Published: April 2024

Corn seeds are an essential element in agricultural production, and accurate identification of their varieties and quality is crucial for planting management, variety improvement, and agricultural product quality control. However, more than traditional manual classification methods are needed to meet the needs of intelligent agriculture. With the rapid development of deep learning methods in the computer field, we propose an efficient residual network named ERNet to identify hyperspectral corn seeds. First, we use linear discriminant analysis to perform dimensionality reduction processing on hyperspectral corn seed images so that the images can be smoothly input into the network. Second, we use effective residual blocks to extract fine-grained features from images. Lastly, we detect and categorize the hyperspectral corn seed images using the classifier softmax. ERNet performs exceptionally well compared to other deep learning techniques and conventional methods. With 98.36% accuracy rate, the result is a valuable reference for classification studies, including hyperspectral corn seed pictures.
Daily process and key characteristics of phytoplankton bloom during a low-water level period in a large subtropical reservoir bay
Authors: Tan Lu , Wang Lan , Cai Qinghua
Published: April 2024

Reservoirs, heavily influenced by artificial management, often harbor phytoplankton assemblages dominated by cyanobacteria or dinoflagellates, triggering significant changes in aquatic ecosystems. However, due to limited sampling frequency and insufficient attention to species composition, the bloom processes and key characteristics of phytoplankton community structure have not been systematically elucidated. During the low-water level period when blooms are most likely to occur (June to September) in a tributary bay of the Three Gorges Reservoir, daily sampling was conducted to investigate phytoplankton community composition, identify significant environmental factors, and evaluate important structure characteristics of phytoplankton community. The results showed that Microcystis aeruginosa maintained a clear dominance for almost a month in stage 1, with low Shannon and evenness but a high dominance index. Phytoplankton total density and biomass decreased drastically in stage 2, but Microcystis aeruginosa still accounted for some proportion. The highest Shannon and evenness but the lowest dominance index occurred in stage 3. Peridiniopsis niei occurred massively in stage 4, but its dominant advantages lasted only one to two days. NH4-N was responsible for the dominance of Microcystis aeruginosa, while TP and PO4-P was responsible for the dominance of Peridiniopsis niei; however, precipitation contributed to their drastic decrease or disappearance to some extent. The TN : TP ratio could be considered as an important indicator to determine whether Microcystis aeruginosa or Peridiniopsis niei dominated the phytoplankton community. Throughout the study period, physiochemical factors explained more variation in phytoplankton data than meteorological and hydrological factors. Pairwise comparisons revealed an increase in average β diversity with stage progression, with higher β diversities based on abundance data than those based on presence/absence data. Repl had a greater effect on β diversity differences based on presence/absence data, whereas RichDiff had a greater effect on β diversity differences based on species abundance data. Co-occurrence networks for stage 1 showed the most complex structure, followed by stage 4, while the network for stage 3 was relatively sparse, although the overall community division remained compact. This study provides a useful attempt to explore the status and changes in phytoplankton community structure during the bloom process through high-resolution investigation.
Integrating social media-based community of inquiry with theory of planned behavior to promote equitable educational intentions among pre-service teachers in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan
Authors: Ullah Imdad , Asghar Muhammad Zaheer , Barbera Elena , Cimen Meltem
Published: April 2024

An equitable education system is essential for all students to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to become productive members of society. Pre-service teachers in education play a vital role in fostering equitable educational practices. This study aimed to measure the association between the social media-based community of inquiry and pre-service teachers’ intentions toward social justice and equity in education. It focused on pre-service teachers enrolled in the education departments of universities in Gilgit Baltistan (GB), Pakistan. Census sampling was used to include all students enrolled in teacher education departments across universities in GB. The research utilized a multi-wave survey design, beginning with a baseline survey to assess pre-service teachers’ presence on social media. This information guided the design of a community of inquiry on social media centered on the theme of social justice and equity in education. After 4 months, a second survey was conducted to measure the association between the community of inquiry and pre-service teachers’ intentions toward social justice and equity. For data analysis, the study employed the partial least squares-consistent structural equation modeling (PLSc-SEM) approach. The novelty of the study lies in integrating the community of inquiry framework with the theory of planned behavior. We found a significant and positive association between the social media-based community of inquiry and pre-service teachers’ attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control regarding their intentions to implement social justice and equity in education. These findings hold the potential for developing prospective teachers and educational leadership with a strong focus on equity. Future research could explore creating a community of inquiry for pre-service teachers to enhance their mindset and skills for inclusive education. This aligns with the broader objective of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) on fostering a more inclusive and equitable educational environment.
Emotional regulation and self-perceived quality of life in high-performance mountain sports athletes
Authors: Rojo-Ramos Pablo , Galán-Arroyo Carmen , Gómez-Paniagua Santiago , Castillo-Paredes Antonio , Rojo-Ramos Jorge
Published: April 2024

Emotional regulation is an indispensable capacity for human beings, so that alterations in it can lead to the appearance of psychological, social and/or cognitive disorders. Therefore, possessing adequate emotional strategies is intimately related to the quality of life that a person presents. In this sense, high-level athletes suffer constant setbacks and frustrations due to the performance of their sporting activity, in addition to continuous modifications of their daily life activities. Thus, the objective of this research is to explore the emotional regulation and self-perceived quality of life of high-level athletes in mountain sports, analyzing the possible influences of gender, demographic location, body mass index and age. Fifty-four athletes belonging to the High Performance Technification Center of Cáceres (Extremadura, Spain) completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, as well as the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire and the WHOQOL-BREF. The Shapiro–Wilkins test was used to analyze the normality of the variables collected and nonparametric statistics were used since the assumption was not met. Both gender and demographic location showed significant differences in the dimensions of the two questionnaires. Likewise, age was associated with the dimensions of both scales, but not body mass index, which was only associated with self-perceived quality of life. In addition, the stepwise linear regression model predicted self-perceived quality of life with a value of 60% across self-culpability, gender body mass index and planning. Therefore, it appears that gender, demographic location, age and body mass index could exert modifications on the levels of emotional regulation and self-perceived quality of life of high-level mountain athletes.
Challenges and support needs in psychological and physical health among pilots: a qualitative study
Authors: Xu Wen , Bao Yuyan , Zhang Lin , Li Yunfei , Zhang Erliang , Li Huilun , Jin Qingqing , Chen Yan , Duan Qingqing , Shi Feng , Wang Linlin , Lu Ziyang , Chen Xuhua , Gao Qijing , Han Hangyu , Ren Bin , Su Ya , Xiang Mi
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Physical and mental health problems among pilots affect their working state and impact flight safety. Although pilots’ physical and mental health problems have become increasingly prominent, their health has not been taken seriously. This study aimed to clarify challenges and support needs related to psychological and physical health among pilots to inform development of a more scientific and comprehensive physical and mental health system for civil aviation pilots.

Methods

This qualitative study recruited pilots from nine civil aviation companies. Focus group interviews via an online conference platform were conducted in August 2022. Colaizzi analysis was used to derive themes from the data and explore pilots’ experiences, challenges, and support needs.

Results

The main sub-themes capturing pilots’ psychological and physical health challenges were: (1) imbalance between family life and work; (2) pressure from assessment and physical examination eligibility requirements; (3) pressure from worries about being infected with COVID-19; (4) nutrition deficiency during working hours; (5) changes in eating habits because of the COVID-19 pandemic; (6) sleep deprivation; (7) occupational diseases; (8) lack of support from the company in coping with stress; (9) pilots’ yearly examination standards; (10) support with sports equipment; (11) respecting planned rest time; and (12) isolation periods.

Discussion

The interviewed pilots experienced major psychological pressure from various sources, and their physical health condition was concerning. We offer several suggestions that could be addressed to improve pilots’ physical and mental health. However, more research is needed to compare standard health measures for pilots around the world in order to improve their physical and mental health and contribute to overall aviation safety.
Analysis of care-seeking and diagnosis delay among pulmonary tuberculosis patients in Beijing, China
Authors: Zhang Lijie , Ma Xiaoge , Gao Hanqing , Bao Cheng , Wu Yue , Wu Sihui , Liu Menghan , Liu Yuhong , Li Liang
Published: April 2024

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge in China. Early detection and diagnosis of TB cases are crucial to interrupt disease transmission and prevent its progression. This study aims to describe the delay in seeking care and diagnosis among patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and identify the influencing factors in two counties in Beijing.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was carried out to investigate care-seeking and diagnosis delay in two counties in Beijing. Basic information of PTB patients from January 1 to December 31, 2021, was extracted from the Tuberculosis Information Management System of China (TBIMS), and all enrolled patients were interviewed via telephone using a standard questionnaire. Statistical description was performed using the median and interquartile range (IQR). Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression model were used to analyze the influencing factors.

Results

537 patients were enrolled. The median duration of care-seeking and diagnosis delay was 11 (IQR: 5–26) days and 8 (IQR: 0–18) days, with 41.71 and 35.20% of patients experiencing delays (>14 days). The study found that being asymptomatic (OR = 2.791, 95%CI: 1.710–4.555) before seeking medical care and not attending work during treatment (OR = 2.990, 95%CI: 1.419–6.298) were identified as risk factors for care-seeking delay. Patients who were tracked (OR = 2.632, 95%CI: 1.062–6.521) and diagnosed at tuberculosis control and prevention institutions (OR = 1.843, 95%CI: 1.061–3.202) had higher odds of diagnostic delays. 44.69% of patients presented a total delay (>28 days), with a median duration of 25 (IQR: 13–39) days. A multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that healthy examination (OR = 0.136, 95%CI: 0.043–0.425) was a protective factor for total delay.

Conclusion

Public interventions are necessary to improve the efficiency of PTB patients detection and treatment in Beijing. Medical services should focus on the target population and improve access to medical care to further reduce delays for PTB patients.
Looking after bubba for all our mob: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community experiences and perceptions of stillbirth
Authors: Massi Luciana , Lewis Carolyn , Stewart Skye , Jans Diana , Gautam Rupesh , Jalloub Lina , Bowman Anneka , Middleton Philippa , Vlack Sue , Boyle Frances M. , Shepherd Carrington , Flenady Vicki , Stuart-Butler Deanna , Rae Kym M.
Published: April 2024

The stillbirth rate among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and communities in Australia is around double that of non-Indigenous women. While the development of effective prevention strategies during pregnancy and improving care following stillbirth for women and families in communities has become a national priority, there has been limited progress in stillbirth disparities. With community permission, this study aimed to gain a better understanding of community experiences, perceptions, and priorities around stillbirth. We undertook an Indigenous researcher-led, qualitative study, with community consultations guided by a cultural protection protocol and within an unstructured research framework. A total of 18 communities were consulted face-to-face through yarning interviews, focus groups and workshops. This included 54 community member and 159 health professional participants across remote, regional, and urban areas of Queensland, Western Australia, Victoria, South Australia, and Northern Territory. Thematic analysis of consultation data identified common themes across five focus/priority areas to address stillbirth: Stillbirth or Sorry Business Baby care needs to be family-centered; using Indigenous “ways of knowing, being, and doing” to ensure cultural safety; application of Birthing on Country principles to maternal and perinatal care; and yarning approaches to improve communication and learning or education. The results underscore the critical need to co-design evidence-based, culturally appropriate, and community-acceptable resources to help reduce existing disparities in stillbirth rates.
On time-horizons based post-processing of flow forecasts
Authors: Reggiani Paolo , Biondi Daniela , Todini Ezio
Published: April 2024

Post-processing raw stream flow forecasts are generally understood as estimating the univariate predictive density of stage or discharge values at selected future time steps, which is conditional on a single or multiple streamflow forecasts and observations up to the forecast start time to. The predictive density indicates to a forecaster in the most comprehensive way which flood level is likely to be expected. To this end, a variety of post-processing methods were proposed, which have respective strengths and weaknesses. These methods focus near-exclusively on the probabilistic forecast of the predictand at a single set future time ti, without addressing the predictive capability over the sequence of temporal sub-horizons (to, t1] ⊂ (to, t2] ⊂ … ⊂ (to, tk] nested into the overall forecast horizon. Here, we demonstrate the advantages of time-horizon dependent processing of streamflow forecasts, which evaluates the evolution of the predictive density over the sub-horizons by considering the temporal correlation among forecast ensemble members in addition to their cross-correlation with observations. The resulting probabilistic forecast consists of a multivariate distribution of stages and/or discharges at lagged forecasting times. These multivariate predictive distributions have the advantage of providing the likelihood of exceeding a critical threshold during the forecasting horizon while simultaneously offering valuable insights into the expected time of such exceedance. This approach supports not only decisions on issuing timely flood warnings but also the planing and roll-out of mitigating actions.
Political reconfiguration in the social space: data analysis and future perspective
Authors: Battista Daniele
Published: April 2024

This paper aims to explore the complex and sometimes controversial relationship between social media and politics. The correlation between these two areas of research has always been less linear than a simplistic narrative might suggest, mainly because of the involvement of different scientific disciplines, such as sociology, political science, communication, social psychology and computer science. The decision to explore this topic is motivated by the persistent relevance of social media platforms in the current era. This growing centrality is also due to the accelerated digitization process that occurred during the pandemic phase in the digital ecosystem. In particular, the pandemic has contributed to a significant evolution of the concept of social networks. The methodology used is based on secondary data, and the work seeks to highlight the expansion of digital space resulting from the shift from a simple place of interaction to a digital space that reconfigured the mobilization and political action of Campania’s governor Vincenzo De Luca. In conclusion, the study reveals important findings on the president’s use of social media. For example, active citizen engagement strategies through direct interaction, timely information sharing, and mobilization of online resources are evident. Therefore, it becomes necessary to ask and understand whether the potential of new social technologies is being used to cultivate critical and massive citizen participation in democratic processes or whether it is being distorted for the sole purpose of increasing or consolidating consent.
Enhancing volleyball training: empowering athletes and coaches through advanced sensing and analysis
Authors: Salim Fahim A. , Postma Dees B. W. , Haider Fasih , Luz Saturnino , Beijnum Bert-Jan F. van , Reidsma Dennis
Published: April 2024

Modern sensing technologies and data analysis methods usher in a new era for sports training and practice. Hidden insights can be uncovered and interactive training environments can be created by means of data analysis. We present a system to support volleyball training which makes use of Inertial Measurement Units, a pressure sensitive display floor, and machine learning techniques to automatically detect relevant behaviours and provides the user with the appropriate information. While working with trainers and amateur athletes, we also explore potential applications that are driven by automatic action recognition, that contribute various requirements to the platform. The first application is an automatic video-tagging protocol that marks key events (captured on video) based on the automatic recognition of volleyball-specific actions with an unweighted average recall of 78.71% in the 10-fold cross-validation setting with convolution neural network and 73.84% in leave-one-subject-out cross-validation setting with active data representation method using wearable sensors, as an exemplification of how dashboard and retrieval systems would work with the platform. In the context of action recognition, we have evaluated statistical functions and their transformation using active data representation besides raw signal of IMUs sensor. The second application is the “bump-set-spike” trainer, which uses automatic action recognition to provide real-time feedback about performance to steer player behaviour in volleyball, as an example of rich learning environments enabled by live action detection. In addition to describing these applications, we detail the system components and architecture and discuss the implications that our system might have for sports in general and for volleyball in particular.
The role played by insider transfer information in esports coverage
Authors: Rong Yi , Li Jiaqi
Published: April 2024

Esports is a rapidly growing industry and related information garners the attention of audiences both inside and outside the arena. The electronic competition system has become more structured over time and there are now standard off-seasons, which coincide tightly with an intensive period of player transfers. However, at the same time, the off-season has few events to cover and transfer information is highly confidential, so any insights regarding possible transfers are of deep interest to audiences. As a result, unofficial esports insiders often leak transfer information. To explore this phenomenon in greater depth, the methodology used in this study was based on the content analysis of information relating to 10-years in the life of the esport Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO). Data was collected from the Perfect World Esports APP and the HLTV websites to analyze the informants and the development of transfer information and its influence. It was found that, during the off-season, insider transfer revelations became the primary focus of content in the esports media sector. As the number of viewers participating in discussions about potential transfers has grown, esports tipsters have discovered a new career path within the industry. A comprehensive assessment of the audience and professional practitioners reveals the essential qualities that esports insiders should possess to excel in this field and for their careers to develop.
Enhancing quality of life in head and neck cancer patients: a comparative analysis of 3D exoscope-assisted surgery vs. traditional approaches
Authors: Marchi Filippo , Bellini Elisa , Ioppi Alessandro , Simoni Federica , Iandelli Andrea , Filauro Marta , Mora Francesco , Sampieri Claudio , Peretti Giorgio
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The increasing population of survivors of head and neck carcinomas is becoming more conspicuous. Consequently, the pivotal role of quality of life, particularly elucidated through the assessment of dysphagia and dysphonia, is progressively influencing the decision-making process. The current study aims to assess whether VITOM 3D could offer a comparable post-treatment quality of life to traditional approaches for patients with laryngeal cancer and oro-hypopharyngeal cancer.

Methods

A case series of laryngeal cancer and oro-hypopharyngeal cancer patients treated either with an exoscopic-assisted surgical setup and with conventional treatments (transoral microsurgery and radio-chemotherapy) at the Otolaryngology Unit of IRCCS San Martino Hospital, Genoa, is presented. The post-treatment quality of life of the two cohorts were compared through the administration of the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire, Voiceik Handicap Index-10, M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory were administrated to both cohorts of patients.

Results

In the laryngeal cancer group, a total of 79 patients were included. Of these, 50.1% underwent transoral exoscope-assisted surgery, while 49.9% underwent primary transoral microscopic-assisted surgical approach. No significant differences were observed in terms of the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire and Voice Handicap Index-10 between the two subgroups. Conversely, in the oro-hypopharyngeal cancer group, 43 patients were included. Of these, 37.2% underwent primary transoral exoscope-assisted surgery, while 62.8% received (chemo)radiotherapy. No notable differences were reported in terms of the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire and M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory between the transoral exoscope-assisted surgery and (chemo)radiotherapy subgroups.

Conclusions

Assessments of quality of life, conducted through the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire questionnaire, dysphonia evaluations using the Voice Handicap Index-10, and dysphagia assessments employing the M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory questionnaire, demonstrate analogous outcomes between conventional treatment modalities and transoral interventions utilizing the 3D exoscope.
Monoethanolamine-Based Fuels Hypergolic with Rocket-Grade Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Caffiero Luca , Carlotti Stefania , Maggi Filippo
Published: April 2024

The object of this work is to study the ignition performances of promising catalytically promoted amino-based green fuels to be used in combination with rocket-grade hydrogen peroxide. The main hypergolic parameter, the ignition delay time, was experimentally determined with an automated drop test setup. Additionally, the kinematic viscosity was experimentally measured, while the CEA2 software was used to determine the ideal rocket performances of the propellants. Three inorganic copper salts were selected as catalysts to be used in combination with monoethanolamine in concentrations ranging from 0.5 wt% to 20 wt%. Then, N,N-dimethylethylenediamine was introduced as part of a blend with monoethanolamine to target the high viscosity and low gravimetric specific impulse of the fuel for the pure monoethanolamine case. Due to the reduced monoethanolamine and low additive content, some formulations were observed to be characterized by gravimetric specific impulse higher than 320 s, and kinematic viscosity lower than 5 cSt while retaining ignition delay times shorter than 30 ms with 98 wt% HTP. Finally, the addition of ethanol to the blend was preliminarily investigated to improve the additive solubility. The effects on the ignition delay time were found to depend on the concentration ratio of the two amines.
Spontaneous Imbibition and an Interface-Electrostatics-Based Model of the Transition Zone Thickness of Hydrocarbon Reservoirs and Their Theoretical Interpretations
Authors: Amadu Mumuni , Miadonye Adango
Published: April 2024

The transition zone (TZ) of hydrocarbon reservoirs is an integral part of the hydrocarbon pool which contains a substantial fraction of the deposit, particularly in carbonate petroleum systems. Consequently, knowledge of its thickness and petrophysical properties, viz. its pore size distribution and wettability characteristic, is critical to optimizing hydrocarbon production in this zone. Using classical formation evaluation techniques, the thickness of the transition zone has been estimated, using well logging methods including resistivity and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, among others. While hydrocarbon fluids’ accumulation in petroleum reservoirs occurs due to the migration and displacement of originally water-filled potential structural and stratigraphic traps, the development of their TZ integrates petrophysical processes that combine spontaneous capillary imbibition and wettability phenomena. In the literature, wettability phenomena have been shown to also be governed by electrostatic phenomena. Therefore, given that reservoir rocks are aggregates of minerals with ionizable surface groups that facilitate the development of an electric double layer, a definite theoretical relationship between the TZ and electrostatic theory must be feasible. Accordingly, a theoretical approach to estimating the TZ thickness, using the electrostatic theory and based on the electric double layer theory, is attractive, but this is lacking in the literature. Herein, we fill the knowledge gap by using the interfacial electrostatic theory based on the fundamental tenets of the solution to the Poisson–Boltzmann mean field theory. Accordingly, we have used an existing model of capillary rise based on free energy concepts to derive a capillary rise equation that can be used to theoretically predict observations based on the TZ thickness of different reservoir rocks, using well-established formation evaluation methods. The novelty of our work stems from the ability of the model to theoretically and accurately predict the TZ thickness of the different lithostratigraphic units of hydrocarbon reservoirs, because of the experimental accessibility of its model parameters.
Effect of B2O3 and Basic Oxides on Network Structure and Chemical Stability of Borosilicate Glass
Authors: Lian Ming , Wang Tian , Wei Chong
Published: April 2024

Glass properties play crucial roles in ensuring the safety and reliability of electronic packaging. However, challenges, such as thermal expansion and resistance to acid corrosion, pose long-term service difficulties. This study investigated the impact of the microstructure on acid resistance by adjusting the glass composition. A glass material with excellent acid resistance was obtained by achieving a similar coefficient of thermal expansion to tantalum; it exhibited a weight loss rate of less than 0.03% when submerged in 38% sulfuric acid at 85 °C for 200 h. Theoretically, this glass can be used to seal wet Ta electrolytic capacitors. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to analyze the glass transition temperature and thermal stability of borosilicate glasses. X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy were used to study the microstructure of the amorphous phase of the borosilicate glass, which revealed a close relationship between the degree of network phase separation in the borosilicate glass and the degree of polymerization (isomorphic polyhedron value, IP) of the glass matrix. The IP value decreased from 3.82 to 1.98 with an increasing degree of phase separation. Boron transitions from [BO4] to [BO3] within the glass network structure with increasing boron oxide content, which diminishes the availability of free oxygen provided by alkaline oxide, resulting in a lower acid resistance. Notably, the glass exhibited optimal acid resistance at boron trioxide and mixed alkaline oxide contents of 15% and 6%, respectively. Raman experiments revealed how the distributions of various bridging oxygen atoms (Qn) affect the structural phase separation of the glass network. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy revealed the depolymerization of Q4 into Q3, thereby promoting high-temperature phase separation and highlighting the unique advantages of Raman spectroscopy for phase recognition.
A Computational Approach for the Discovery of Novel DNA Methyltransferase Inhibitors
Authors: Kritsi Eftichia , Christodoulou Paris , Tsiaka Thalia , Georgiadis Panagiotis , Zervou Maria
Published: April 2024

Nowadays, the explosion of knowledge in the field of epigenetics has revealed new pathways toward the treatment of multifactorial diseases, rendering the key players of the epigenetic machinery the focus of today’s pharmaceutical landscape. Among epigenetic enzymes, DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) are first studied as inhibition targets for cancer treatment. The increasing clinical interest in DNMTs has led to advanced experimental and computational strategies in the search for novel DNMT inhibitors. Considering the importance of epigenetic targets as a novel and promising pharmaceutical trend, the present study attempted to discover novel inhibitors of natural origin against DNMTs using a combination of structure and ligand-based computational approaches. Particularly, a pharmacophore-based virtual screening was performed, followed by molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations in order to establish an accurate and robust selection methodology. Our screening protocol prioritized five natural-derived compounds, derivatives of coumarins, flavones, chalcones, benzoic acids, and phenazine, bearing completely diverse chemical scaffolds from FDA-approved “Epi-drugs”. Their total DNMT inhibitory activity was evaluated, revealing promising results for the derived hits with an inhibitory activity ranging within 30–45% at 100 µM of the tested compounds.
Railroad Infrastructure Management: A Novel Tool for Automatic Interpretation of GPR Imaging to Minimize Human Intervention in Railroad Inspection
Authors: Alzarrad Ammar , Wise Caleb , Chattopadhyay Arka , Chowdhury Sudipta , Cisko Abby , Beasley Jeremy
Published: April 2024

Regular monitoring and inspection of military railroad tracks are necessary to ensure the safe transportation of military freight. Manual railroad inspection has drawbacks and limitations that can impact accuracy and efficiency. This study introduces a novel tool designed to automate Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) imaging interpretation for railroad ballast condition assessment, aiming to reduce human intervention in inspections. The tool uses advanced signal processing techniques, such as the Short-Time Fourier Transform (STFT) and Wavelet Transform (WT), to quantify ballast fouling levels accurately, enhancing maintenance and safety protocols for railroad tracks. Validation through comprehensive testing, including two case studies, demonstrates the tool’s superior efficacy over traditional manual inspection methods. This research represents a pivotal step towards more efficient and reliable infrastructure management, ensuring critical railroad systems’ safety and operational integrity.
Video Laryngoscopy vs. Direct Laryngoscopy in Adult Patients with Difficult Airways Who Require Emergency Intubation
Authors: Alwan Iktimal , Alwan Maria , Mahgoub Ibrahim , Eghzawi Ansam , Gharaibeh Abeer , Goyal Anita V.
Published: April 2024

This review compares the efficacy of video laryngoscopy (VL) with that of direct laryngoscopy (DL) in adult patients with difficult airways who require emergency intubation. Intubation and laryngoscopy are critical in emergency settings, and VL has emerged as an alternative to DL, particularly in difficult airway cases and when performed by non-experienced practitioners. VL demonstrates advantages such as a wider field of view, enhanced glottic visibility, and higher first-pass success rates, particularly in difficult airway scenarios. However, it also presents limitations, including potential view obstruction and technical complexity. While the evidence points to the advantages of VL, particularly in achieving higher first-pass success rates and minimizing adverse events in adult patients with difficult airways, the inconclusive findings from randomized trials emphasize the importance of future research in refining practices and improving patient outcomes.
Estimating Spillover Effect from International Oil Market to Stock Market: Evidence from Korean Portfolio-Level Analysis
Authors: Choi Sunghee
Published: April 2024

Using a diagonal BEKK model, this paper estimates a spillover effect from the international crude oil market to the Korean stock market. Empirical results suggest that shocks and volatility in Dubai oil prices are significantly transmitted into twenty portfolios of the Korean stock market. Also, it was found that these spillover effects dramatically rose during the year 2020, when the threat of COVID-19 was the most serious. More specifically, oil-oriented portfolios, such as the power and gas firms’ portfolio and chemical firms’ portfolio, had a greater spillover effect from the international crude oil market rather than other portfolios. Further, compared to larger-capitalization firm portfolios, small-capitalization firm portfolios had a relatively greater spillover effect. Several implications and important avenues for further research are identified.
Focused Ultrasound as Targeted Therapy for Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Farooqi Muhammad Awais , Mahnoor Mahnoor , Delgado Kaylee Marie , Dahlgren Wylie Thien-Tam , Kang Chul-Ung , Farooqi Hafiz Muhammad Umer
Published: April 2024

Traditional cancer treatments have not significantly improved the survival rates for individuals with colorectal cancer. As a result, there is a dire need to explore novel treatment modalities that can target cancer-specific niches, transform cold colorectal tumors into hot ones, and disrupt the tumor niche. Therapeutic focused ultrasound, recognized for its capacity to induce thermal and mechanical impacts on tissue, can potentially eliminate cancer cells and elicit the body’s anticancer reaction by disrupting the tumor microenvironment. This article provides an overview of recent developments in employing therapeutic focused ultrasound (TFUS) to enhance the body’s natural defenses against colorectal cancers. It also discusses studies examining the utility of TFUS in treating colorectal cancer patients and recent research indicating its potential to stimulate the body’s anticancer response in various in vitro and in vivo colorectal cancer models. Furthermore, it explores the therapeutic effects of TFUS on the immune system in colorectal cancers. This article also highlights the safety and effectiveness of TFUS in managing colorectal cancer, providing relief from pain, and potentially improving survival rates. Given the indications that TFUS may bolster the body’s immune response and augment the impacts of TFUS therapy in clinical and preclinical colorectal cancer models, it has the potential to emerge as a pivotal tool in clinical settings.
Circadian Rhythms in NLRP3 Inflammasome Regulation: Possible Implications for the Nighttime Risk of Gout Flares
Authors: Poulsen Raewyn C. , Dalbeth Nicola
Published: April 2024

Gout flares more frequently start late at night or in the early morning compared to during the day. The reasons for this are unknown. Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in monocytes/macrophages is central to initiation of gout flares. Here, we review the mechanisms by which circadian clocks control the NLRP3 inflammasome and the implications of this for the nighttime pattern of gout flares. Several hormones involved in inflammation regulation, e.g., glucocorticoids, melatonin and melanocortins, are under circadian control, with both circulating hormone levels as well as the expression of their receptors on target tissues showing time-of day differences. In addition, the NLRP3 inflammasome is also under the control of the macrophage circadian clock, leading to time-of-day differences in expression of NLRP3 inflammasome components and susceptibility to inflammasome-activating stimuli. MSU crystal exposure leads to altered expression of circadian clock components in macrophages, leading to time-of-day-specific loss of repression of NLRP3 inflammasome activity. Taken together, there is clear evidence that circadian clocks regulate the NLRP3 inflammasome and that this regulation may be compromised by MSU crystal exposure in gout. Circadian control of the inflammasome may be one of the factors contributing to nighttime susceptibility to gout flares.
Adapting Traditional Media to the Social Media Culture: A Case Study of Greece
Authors: Gioltzidou Georgia , Mitka Dimitra , Gioltzidou Fotini , Chrysafis Theodoros , Mylona Ifigeneia , Amanatidis Dimitrios
Published: April 2024

This study is situated within the ongoing scholarly discourse surrounding the role of social media in the evolving communication landscape. The main aim of this research is to examine the extent to which the Greek traditional media and journalists have adapted to the ethos of social media. In particular, this study conducts a comparative analysis to assess whether the Greek media and journalists have effectively embraced the communication challenges arising from advancements in social media, particularly during election cycles. The theoretical foundation rests on the network theory of power, a concept pioneered by the Spanish sociologist Manuel Castells. The empirical component presents the findings obtained through an examination of journalists’ participation in political discourse on Twitter (now named X) throughout seven distinct election periods encompassing all electoral levels in Greece (presidential, national, European and regional/municipal elections, plus a referendum). The findings reveal low levels of adaptation, in contrast with western countries, where journalists and the media have embraced the online culture to a greater extent and appear to take on more prominent roles in debates. The findings provide valuable insights for journalists, politicians and the media in understanding the role of social media in political communication.
Prognostic Role of Initial Thromboelastography in Emergency Department Patients with Primary Postpartum Hemorrhage: Association with Massive Transfusion
Authors: Kim Sang Min , Sohn Chang Hwan , Kwon Hyojeong , Ryoo Seung Mok , Ahn Shin , Seo Dong Woo , Kim Won Young
Published: April 2024

Background: The early prediction of the need for massive transfusions (MTs) and the preparation of blood products are essential for managing patients with primary postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Thromboelastography (TEG) enables a thorough evaluation of coagulation status and is useful for guiding the treatment of hemorrhagic events in various diseases. We investigated the role of TEG in predicting the need for MT in patients with primary PPH. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted in the emergency department (ED) of a university-affiliated, tertiary referral center between November 2015 and August 2023. TEG was performed upon admission. We defined MT as the requirement for transfusion of more than 10 units of packed red blood cells within the first 24 h. The primary outcome was the need for MT. Results: Among the 184 patients with initial TEG, 34 (18.5%) required MT. Except for lysis after 30 min, the MT and non-MT groups had significantly different TEG values. Based on multivariate analysis, an angle < 60 was an independent predictor of MT (odds ratio (OR) 7.769; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.736–22.062), along with lactate (OR, 1.674; 95% CI, 1.218–2.300) and shock index > 0.9 (OR, 4.638; 95% CI, 1.784–12.056). Alpha angle < 60 degrees indicated the need for MT with 73.5% sensitivity, 72.0% specificity, and 92.3% negative predictive value. Conclusions: Point-of-care testing of TEG has the potential to be a useful tool in accurately predicting the necessity for MT in ED patients with primary PPH at an early stage.