bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prosthetics of heart valves: current trends
Authors: Bessonova Regina A.
Published: August 2024

Nowadays, cardiac surgery is highly safe in terms of protecting internal organs from ischemia and cardioplegia. This allows for radical interventions even in weakened patients with risk factors for perioperative mortality. At the same time, classical heart valve replacement operations are suboptimal and invalidate the patient. The purpose of the study is a critical analysis of the current state of the problem of prosthetics of heart valves, evaluation of alternative methods of prosthetics. To replace the atrioventricular valve, the most suitable bioprosthesis may be a human mitral allograft, which allows you to fully replace the complex structures of the AV valve due to the identity of the anatomy, can work cooperatively with all functional structures of the left ventricle, has the potential to repopulate the patient’s tissues, sufficient strength and a relatively simple and permanent anatomy (compared with tricuspid allograft), while it is safe in terms of rejection. Currently, there is a large set of alternative options for prosthetics of heart valves. Many of them are characterized by greater physiology, anatomicity, and safety in terms of prosthesis-dependent complications compared to classic skeleton prostheses.
The analysis of the effectiveness of sensorimotor control of breathing with biofeedback and meditational breathing exercises in modeling allostatic load
Authors: Feinstein Dmitry V. , Fokina Anna S. , Sevryukova Galina A. , Doletsky Alexey N. , Klaucek Sergey V.
Published: August 2024

The effectiveness of the method of sensorimotor breathing control with biofeedback and meditative breathing exercises in modeling allostatic load was analyzed. The bioelectrical activity of the brain was studied using electroencephalography. The reactions of the autonomic nervous system were assessed using spectral analysis of heart rate variability. A course of using sensorimotor breathing control procedures with biofeedback has a positive effect on the level of bioelectrical activity of the brain and the reactivity of the autonomic nervous system. These techniques optimize respiratory function by simulating the breathing pattern in chronic tracheostomy patients, as allostatic load.
Analysis of corneal biomechanical properties in different keratotopographic patterns of keratoconus
Authors: Solodkova Elena G. , Malyugin Boris E. , Zakharov Igor N. , Hoang Le Van , Balalin Sergey V. , Lobanov Evgeny V.
Published: August 2024

256 subjects (256 eyes) participated in the study: 174 healthy individuals (174 eyes) with normal corneas with different refraction and 82 patients (82 eyes) with keratoconus at stages 1, 2 and 3. Based on mathematical modeling, the biomechanical corneal properties with different patterns of keratoconus at stages 1, 2, and 3 were evaluated. Mathematical modeling made it possible to determine the dimensions and degrees of local corneal biomechanical properties reduction, which depended on the disease stage and practically did not change from the shape and keratopographic pattern localization.
The state of hemodynamics in middle-aged and elderly people
Authors: Yushchuk Vladimir N. , Chepurnova Natalia S. , Markelova Elena V. , Knysh Sergey V. , Trankovskaya Lidiya V. , Voroshilov Artyom D.
Published: August 2024

The article presents the results of a study of hemodynamic parameters in conditionally healthy middle-aged and elderly people in comparison with those of people with hypertension of middle and elderly age. Anthropometric data and hemodynamic parameters were determined and recorded in men and women, statistical processing of the obtained data was carried out using the analytical software IBM SPSS Statistics, 22.0. In the course of the study, a more significant inclusion of compensatory mechanisms for normalization of stroke volume, minute volume and peripheral vascular resistance was found in the group of conditionally healthy elderly people in comparison with a similar age group with arterial hypertension.
UPAYA GURU IPS UPAYA GURU IPS DALAM MENINGKATKAN KETRAMPILAN SOSIAL PADA PESERTA DIDIK
Authors: Fatmawati Rosita , Nikmah Khoirun
Published: August 2024

Keterampilan sosial mencakup kemampuan untuk membina hubungan yang positif, menyelesaikan konflik hasil dari interaksi sosial dengan lingkungan, dan beradaptasi dengan norma yang berlaku. Penguasaan keterampilan ini dapat membantu anak-anak menjadi lebih berani dalam menyampaikan pendapat, mengajukan diri, serta mengungkapkan perasaan mereka. Guru IPS berupaya meningkatkan keterampilan sosial peserta didik dengan menerapkan strategi pembelajaran yang sesuai, seperti melibatkan diskusi dalam menangani permasalahan yang muncul, mengajak peserta didik untuk berpartisipasi dalam kegiatan kerja bakti, dan tindakan lainnya. Dalam upaya meningkatkan keterampilan sosial, guru dapat menggunakan model pembelajaran inkuiri dan kooperatif. Model pembelajaran inkuiri mengedepankan proses berpikir sistematis, kritis, dan analitis, sementara pembelajaran kooperatif melibatkan pengelompokan atau kerja tim. Melalui diskusi yang mengarah pada penyelesaian masalah, siswa dapat mengatasi permasalahan hidup mereka dan mengembangkan kemampuan mencari solusi. Melibatkan siswa dalam kegiatan kerja bakti juga dapat mengembangkan keterampilan sosial mereka, membentuk kelompok, melatih kerjasama, dan menciptakan lingkungan sekolah yang bersih dan menyenangkan. Penelitian ini mengadopsi pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif karena fenomena yang diamati tidak dapat diukur dalam bentuk angka, sehingga penelitian lebih fokus pada deskripsi mendalam fenomena sekitar. Sumber data utama diperoleh melalui wawancara dan observasi langsung di lapangan, sementara data sekunder diperoleh melalui dokumentasi dan studi kepustakaan dengan menggunakan media cetak, internet, serta catatan lapangan. Pendekatan ini memberikan gambaran komprehensif tentang usaha guru IPS dalam meningkatkan keterampilan sosial siswa, memperkaya pemahaman terkait dampak strategi pembelajaran yang diimplementasikan dalam konteks pendidikan.
Enhancing Energy-Efficiency in Water Filtration Through System Integration: A Pathway to Greener Hydrogen Production
Authors: Mir Faraz Rasheed , Rolofs Gerrit , Chukwureh Emeka , Elsayed Shehab Ahmed
Published: August 2024

Water filtration is a critical process in various industries and applications due to its role in purifying water and removing contaminants. However, conventional filtration processes face significant challenges in terms of energy efficiency and water recovery. This is both economically and environmentally problematic. At the same time, emerging technologies such as green hydrogen production require consistent access to high quality water. It is therefore important to develop sustainable and energy-efficient water filtration models.

This study proposes an innovative filtration model that combines membrane separation technologies with geothermal energy integration. The aim of this model is to effectively treat seawater into water suitable for green hydrogen production while maximising energy recovery and efficiency. A multi-stage filtration process including nanofiltration and reverse osmosis is used to filter the water. The rejected streams from this process are then sent to a geothermal integration system that uses the waste heat to generate electricity.

Preliminary results indicate that this integrated model can achieve over 90 % water recovery from seawater feed, a significant improvement over conventional method. Energy consumption is also estimated to be 50-60 % lower at 2-3 kWh/m3. Most importantly, the treated water meets purity standards for use in proton exchange membrane electrolysers for hydrogen production.
Managing Dynamic Project Assumptions Prior to Freezing of Scope: Niger Delta Case Studies
Authors: Obidike Peter , Sonde Adenike
Published: August 2024

A key objective of the shaping process in project maturation is to ensure that once the scope is defined, there will be minimal or no further changes as we get into the execution stage. As part of the shaping process, which is typically from the time the project is conceived to the freezing of the scope, changes can occur when the underlying assumptions change.

Two key export gas projects in focus, recently went through the shaping process. The projects were matured via a gated process, which involved passing key project milestone decision gates through an internal Decision Review Board (DRB). In the maturation process, a Feasibility gate precede another gate that indicates the freezing of the scope (otherwise known as FEL2, front end loading 2). A fourth decision gate (FEL3) signals support for the final investment decision (FID) which precedes the execution stage. During the shaping process, both projects passed the feasibility gate with an identified concept that could potentially be progressed to the scope freeze gate. Post the feasibility studies, some technical assumptions changed and challenged the feasibility of the projects. One of the projects recovered with a redefined scope that was still in line with the original frame, while the other struggled.

This paper examines in detail the changes in the technical assumptions that challenged the already proven feasibility of these projects. The objective is to see if these challenges could have been anticipated (via better risk assessments, better framing of the projects and better anticipation of external stakeholders’ perspectives) and addressed earlier to avoid such outcomes where projects initially assessed as feasible turn out to be otherwise before the scope freeze decision gate.
Development of a Green Field Reservoir in the Niger Delta: The Journey and Success Story
Authors: Okpani O. O. , Akinwande M. , Atuanya C. , Adegoke O. , Aina T. , Igiri T. , Nnachetta E.
Published: August 2024

The paper shows the journey and key lessons learned in the successful development of a green field reservoir that initially had significant subsurface uncertainties. Acquisition, interpretation, and integration of key subsurface data was critical to the reduction of subsurface uncertainties, and successful development of the reservoir.

Reservoir J8-02 was discovered in 1991 as saturated reservoir by Well-I which proved an oil column of 42 ft with an LKO. A pilot well (Well-P), drilled in 2019 to determine the reservoir extent and hydrocarbon column, logged a GOC and an OWC; and proved up an additional 147 ft column of oil. The fluid contacts established from well log data were validated by repeat formation pressure tests acquired using Well-P.

Based on the results from Well-P, a horizontal well (Well-PH) was planned to be completed in the reservoir with the lateral depth at 30 ft below the GOC. Due to issues experienced with MWD, the well was completed in the reservoir with the toe being about 15 ft offset from the GOC. When Well-PH was brought online in 2019, it produced at low oil rate, very high GOR and with light oil API of 42. Evaluation of Well-PH production performance and the open hole log suggested that Well-PH was producing from a fluid transition zone (high GOR/high oil API) between the gas cap and the oil leg. A new well (Well-YH) was then planned to target the oil leg below the fluid transition zone in the eastern part of the reservoir.

A depth uncertainty assessment was done and incorporated into the planned well landing depth. However, due to possible gas sag effect on the seismic, the structure was encountered shallower than the pre-drill uncertainty range; this resulted in the new drill (Well-YH) being sub-optimally landed in the transition zone and within the low-quality section of the reservoir lobe. The transition zone was confirmed in Well-YH by real-time gas chromatograph analysis from mud logging. The decision was made to geologically sidetrack Well-YH.

The sidetrack (Well-YHST) was successfully drilled into the good quality interval with the toe of the lateral at 34 ft below the transition zone. Geo-steering (Resistivity contrast-based depth to boundary tool) and mudlogging proved to be key enablers towards the successful landing of the well. Well-YHST was brought online and is currently producing at very good rate (2100 bopd compared to 1250 bopd pre-drill estimate), low GOR and oil API of 36 degrees. Based on this positive outcome, an additional well is being planned to be drilled to further improve oil recovery in the reservoir.
Well Test Design & Acquisition Strategies: Proactively Assuring Data Usability by Optimizing Design and Data Acquisition
Authors: Nwabulue Nnamdi , Lazson Nchekwube , Akpara Kingsley , Ikhuehi Martins , Kalu Chuks
Published: August 2024

Well testing is a key part of reservoir and well surveillance exercises as it helps us understand the changes in production & injection wells since the previous survey such as damage skin, flow efficiency, drainage area, productivity index and fluid distribution in the wellbore. Well testing has proved to be invaluable not just with reservoir information but also a tool for validating the completion efficiency as well as additional development. The results from the analysis of the acquired well test data will be used to determine stimulation candidates, needs for gaslift design/optimization and checking of downhole jewelry integrity.

In recent times, we have struggled to acquire good data making the interpretation process difficult with some of the extracted results not in conformance with geology while others are just outright unphysical. Most of the cases of bad test results could be traced to deviation from BHP design, operational challenges, leaking valves and partly closure of downhole sleeves.

This paper presents the challenges from our BHP (Bottom Hole Pressure) acquisition campaigns, impact on interpretation and remedial actions taken to improve the quality of the acquired data. The learnings from this will assist other engineers to streamline their interpretations and proactively managing well test operation through well test design, understanding the multiphase production complexity, importance of proper vendor selection/equipment calibration, operation supervision and proper operation documentation.
Maximizing Value in Mature Assets Through Integrated Gas Management
Authors: Adetula O. B. , Okonkwo G. C. , Idih R. , Ataga J. F.
Published: August 2024

Gas management in mature producing oil and gas fields within an integrated facility network poses numerous challenges due to complex facility interdependencies and constraints. A review of the short-term gas demand and supply projections within a key gas gathering hub highlights a significant gas supply shortage for injection, hindering realization of the full oil value potential through gas injection.

This paper presents the development of an integrated strategy to optimize the utilization of associated gas supply within existing facility constraints, aimed at maximizing overall value. A multidisciplinary approach, including holding workshops to review field performance, analyze gas injection requirements, and identify opportunities to manage supply gaps, was adopted. A framework was established to prioritize gas injection based on Additional Oil Recovery (AOR), departing from the conventional allocation method that prioritizes gas distribution solely based on the contributions of each field to the gas gathering hub. The approach ensures gas distribution is optimized to maximize incremental oil production derived from gas injection.

Proposed strategies to mitigate near-term supply short falls include prioritization, external gas sourcing, gas cap blowdown and utilization of high GOR wells. Collaborative efforts have resulted in improved near-term injection benefits despite limited gas supply, with recent reservoir pressure trends indicating reservoirs are positioned to deliver expected mid- and long-term value. The Reservoir Engineer played a pivotal role as a central interface and coordinator in achieving effective gas management.
Development and Validation of a Deep-Learning Model for Differential Treatment Benefit Prediction for Adults with Major Depressive Disorder Deployed in the Artificial Intelligence in Depression – Medication Enhancement (AID-ME) Study
Authors: Benrimoh David , Armstrong Caitrin , Mehltretter Joseph , Fratila Robert , Perlman Kelly , Israel Sonia , Kapelner Adam , Parikh Sagar , Karp Jordan , Heller Katherine , Turecki Gustavo
Published: August 2024

We introduce an artificial intelligence (AI) model aiming to personalize treatment in adult major depression, which was deployed in the Artificial Intelligence in Depression: Medication Enhancement (AID-ME) Study. Our objectives were to predict probabilities of remission across multiple pharmacological treatments, validate model predictions, and examine them for biases. Data from 9,042 adults with moderate to severe major depression from antidepressant clinical trials were standardized into a common framework and feature selection retained 25 clinical and demographic variables. Using Bayesian optimization, a deep learning model was trained on the training set and refined using the validation set. On the held-out test set, the model demonstrated an AUC of 0.65 and outperformed a null model (p = 0.01). The model demonstrated clinical utility, achieving an absolute improvement in population remission rate in hypothetical and actual improvement testing. While the model identified escitalopram as generally outperforming other drugs (consistent with the input data), there was otherwise significant variation in drug rankings. The model did not amplify potentially harmful biases. We demonstrate the first model capable of predicting outcomes for 10 treatments, intended to be used at or near the start of treatment to personalize treatment; AID-ME cluster randomized trial results are reported separately.
Single-Cell Transcriptomic Analysis of Specific Responses of Different Cell Populations of Hemocytes to the Re-infection of Bacteria, a Case Study in Abalone
Authors: Zhang Ziping , Zhang Xin , Sun Yulong , Feng Jianjun , Wang Yilei
Published: August 2024

It is commonly believed that invertebrates lack immune memory due to the absence of immunoglobulins, related molecules, cells, and organs. However, our previous research demonstrated that Haliotis discus hannai, a prominent abalone species cultivated in China, often faces substantial economic losses due to diseases, particularly those caused by Vibrio sp. exhibited higher survival rates upon re-infection with Vibrio parahaemolyticus compared to the initial infection, implying the existence of immune memory. We hypothesized that hemocytes, which play a critical role in pathogen resistance in abalone, might be involved in the immune memory process. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the hemocyte response mechanism to V. parahaemolyticus re-infection to provide valuable insights for preventing and controlling abalone vibriosis and advancing sustainable abalone aquaculture. Additionally, our research aimed to contribute to understanding the origin and evolution of immune memory mechanisms. This study constructed a transcriptome map of abalone hemocytes using 10× Genomics single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). Traditionally, abalone hemocytes were categorized into three cell types: hyalinocytes, semi-granulocytes, and granulocytes. The initial cell division resulted in the formation of 15 clusters further through subsequent analysis using scRNA-seq. Among these clusters, cluster_11 exhibited unique characteristics, indicating a more mature cluster of GRCs. This specific subpopulation displayed significant functionality as a core immune regulator, manifesting robust phagocytic and endocytic activities and substantial involvement in signal transduction and immune regulatory processes. Furthermore, we analyzed and detailed functional variances among different hemocyte types. Through the implementation of RNA interference technology, we validated the interplay between key signaling pathways. Interestingly, our findings suggested the potential existence of a classical TLR/NF-κB signaling pathway in abalone hemocytes, which may contribute to the immune regulation process in response to V. parahaemolyticus re-infection, as preliminarily confirmed in our study.
Combination antiretroviral therapy prevents SIV-induced aging in the hippocampus and neurodegeneration throughout the brain
Authors: MacLean Andrew , Horn Miranda , Midkiff Cecily , Zandt Alison Van , Saied Ahmad
Published: August 2024

Virus-induced accelerated aging has been proposed as a potential mechanism underlying the persistence of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) despite advances in access and adherence to combination antiretroviral therapies (cART). While some studies have demonstrated evidence of accelerated aging in PLWH, studies examining acute infection, and cART intervention are limited, with most studies being in vitro or utilizing small animal models. Here, we utilized FFPE tissues from Simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infected rhesus macaques to assess the levels of two proteins commonly associated with aging - the cellular senescence marker p16INK4a (p16) and the NAD-dependent deacetylase sirtuin 1 (SIRT1). Our central hypothesis was that SIV infection induces accelerated aging phenotypes in the brain characterized by increased expression of p16 and altered expression of SIRT1 that correlate with increased neurodegeneration, and that cART inhibits this process. We found that SIV infection induced increased GFAP, p16, SIRT1, and neurodegeneration in multiple brain regions, and treatment with cART reduced GFAP expression in SIV-infected animals and thus likely decreases inflammation in the brain. Importantly, cART reversed SIV-induced accelerated aging (p16 and SIRT1) and neurodegeneration in the frontal lobe and hippocampus. Combined, these data suggest that cART is both safe and effective in reducing neuroinflammation and age-associated alterations in astrocytes that contribute to neurodegeneration, providing possible therapeutic targets in the treatment of HAND.
Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric evaluation of the Chinese version of the Sickness Presenteeism Scale- Nurses:A cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Chuang , Meng Zhixing , Lin Youbei , Zhang Lan
Published: August 2024

Background There is a lack of an evaluation instrument to gauge how presenteeism practices affect nurses' productivity at work and the quality of the medical treatment they provide. The purpose of this study was to translate the Sickness Presenteeism Scale-Nurse (SPS-N) into the Chinese version of the SPS-N and to verify its reliability and validity in Chinese nurses.Methods The SPS-N was translated according to the Brislin translation model after authorization by the original author. A convenience sampling method was used and the reliability and validity of the scale were tested among 503 Chinese nurses.Results The Cronbach's ɑ of the Chinese SPS-N was 0.924, and the content validity of the items ranged from 0.830 to 1.000. The four-factor exploratory factor model was used to explain 78.354% of the total variance. CMIN/DF = 2.527, RMSEA = 0.067, AGFI = 0.857, TLI = 0.941, IFI = 0.950 ,CFI = 0.949, GFI = 0.900, and PGFI = 0.692 were the model fit outcomes in the validation factor analysis. All of the model fit markers fell within reasonable bounds.Conclusion The reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the SPS-N can be used to evaluate the influence of nurses' presenteeism behavior on job performance. To inform nursing managers in developing programs and interventions to improve the performance of clinical nurses.
Drying Kinetics of Microalgae Chlorella vulgaris: A Thermogravimetric and Differential Scanning Calorimetry Study
Authors: Karmakar Debabrata , Tasnim Nishat , Hasan Md. Rakibul , Arefin Paroma , Bhowmik Dip , Nibir Yead Morshed , Kabir Kazi Bayezid , Karim Rezaul
Published: August 2024

Microalgae are a diverse group of eukaryotic organisms that thrive in various habitats and have significant potential as alternatives to fossil fuels and sources of valuable chemicals like PUFAs, carotenoids, and antioxidants. Despite their efficiency in biomass production, utilizing microalgae effectively poses challenges. Microalgae grow in aqueous media and must be dried before being used for biofuel production, chemical extraction, or nutraceutical products. While extensive research exists on microalgae's benefits and uses, few studies focus on drying methods. This study examines the drying kinetics of Chlorella vulgaris. Drying behavior data was obtained using Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Results showed that biomass moisture content decreased rapidly with increasing temperature, peaking at 65–80°C. Four non-isothermal drying models were developed using popular drying kinetics models for agricultural products and evaluated based on the coefficient of determination (R²) and reduced chi-square (χ²). Page’s model emerged as the best fit for describing the drying kinetics of Chlorella vulgaris.
Enhancing Spiking Rate Control in Brain-Computer Interfaces through Functional Connectivity-Based Grouping
Authors: Li Runda
Published: August 2024

Background: Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) have transformed neuroscience and bioengineering by enabling direct communication between the brain and external devices. Effective neural signal decoding is crucial for BCI performance, yet it is often hindered by noise and instability in neuronal firing rates and patterns.
New Method: This essay introduces an innovative approach to enhancing spiking rate control in BCIs through functional connectivity-based grouping. Functional connectivity refers to the statistical relationships between neural activities. The proposed methodology involves pre-recording analysis using techniques such as pairwise cross-correlation, Granger causality, and coherence to analyze functional connectivity. Neurons are then grouped into ''functional groups'' or ''microcircuits'' based on their connectivity profiles. This grouping is leveraged through adaptive filtering and dimensionality reduction to improve BCI performance.
Results: The experimental results demonstrate that the functional connectivity-based grouping approach significantly enhances BCI performance. Benefits include noise reduction, increased stability, and improved neural signal decoding.
Comparison with Existing Methods: Compared to existing methods, the proposed approach offers superior noise reduction and stability, leading to more accurate and reliable BCI performance.
Conclusions: Our research highlights the potential of functional connectivity-based grouping in enhancing BCI performance. The findings underscore the importance of pilot testing, optimized decoding, and real-time adjustment, offering a promising avenue for future BCI development.
Inter-species SNPs from buffalo liver transcriptome indicate diversity in immune pathways between buffalo and cattle
Authors: Venkata Chaitanya Kumar Thota , Singh Sudhakar , Vedamurthy Gowdar Veerapa , Singh Dheer , Onteru Suneel Kumar
Published: August 2024

Graphical abstract
Abstract:
The duration of negative energy balance (NEB), a physiological adaptation in females during early postpartum, and its coping mechanisms vary among animals, breeds and species because of genetic differences. However, genetic variations that may influence the NEB differences between cattle and buffaloes were not reported. Therefore, the present study aims to identify such genetic differences between cattle and buffaloes by identifying inter-species single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) by mapping the available liver RNA-seq data earlier obtained from three early postpartum buffaloes and three heifers to the cattle genome (UMD 3.1) using the SNP eff tool. The liver transcriptome data were chosen, as it is the major metabolic organ in balancing metabolic milieu to meet different physiological demands during early postpartum. Using the identified interspecies SNPs, intragenus SNPs (Buffalo) were derived from six different Murrah buffaloes and mapped them to the Bubalus bubalis (ASM312139v1) genome. Further, functional annotation and biological pathway analyses were performed for those genes harbouring the putative SNPs. We identified a total of 1,40,056 interspecies and 188 intragenus SNPs. Functional annotation and pathway analyses revealed that most of the putative interspecies SNPs between the cattle (Bos taurus UMD 3.1) and buffalo (Bubalis bubalus) were in the protein metabolism genes (>1900) predominantly involved in the immune system (>1800 genes). Similarly, most of the putative intragenus SNPs among buffaloes were in the genes of lipid metabolic pathways. In conclusion, our study suggests that cattle and buffaloes might differ in protein metabolism genes involved in immunity at the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) level.
Development of bioactive quinoa protein hydrolysate-based emulsion gels: Evaluation of their antioxidant and rheological properties
Authors: Lingiardi Nadia , Galante Micaela , Spelzini Darío
Published: August 2024

This work aimed to develop oil-in-water emulsion gels based on quinoa protein or quinoa protein hydrolysates, alginate, and high-oleic sunflower oil and to characterize their potential as functional food ingredients with antioxidant capacity. Quinoa protein concentrate (QPC) was hydrolyzed with alcalase. The resulting quinoa protein hydrolysates (QPH) (DH: 30 ± 4%) were evaluated for their iron-chelating activity and reducing power. The antioxidant capacity of the QPC or QPH-based emulsion gels was determined using the ABTS and DPPH methods, and they were also subjected to rheological analysis. The QPH exhibited higher ability to chelate ferrous ions and higher reducing power compared to QPC (p = 0.004; p < 0.000, respectively). The ABTS and DPPH free radical scavenging activity of QPH-based emulsion gels was higher than that obtained from QPC-based emulsion gels (p = 0.001; p = 0.001). Furthermore, QPH proved to be more effective in depressing lipid oxidation than QPC. After 30 days of storage, QPH-based emulsion gels showed lower levels of malondialdehyde compared to those obtained from QPC-based emulsion gels (p < 0.000). The rheological behavior of the emulsion gels revealed that the storage modulus (Gʹ) was greater than the loss modulus (Gʺ) throughout the entire frequency range, thus deformation in the linear region was mainly elastic. The strain recovery occurred because of the good viscoelastic properties of the samples. Although the strengthening of QPH-based emulsion gels was lesser than that of those with QPC, the gel structure remained stable through the entire temperature range.
Enhancing Weakly Supervised Semantic Segmentation through Multi-Class Token Attention Learning
Authors: Luo Huilan , Zeng Zhen
Published: August 2024

Weakly supervised semantic segmentation (WSSS) using image-level class labels is challenging due to the limitations of Class Activation Maps (CAMs) in convolutional neural networks (CNNs), which often highlight only the most discriminative image regions. We propose the Hierarchical Multi-Class Token Attention Network (HMCTANet), a novel approach leveraging a Conformer backbone that integrates CNN and Transformer branches. HMCTANet enhances CAMs through multi-class token attention and a Class-Aware Training (CAT) strategy that aligns class tokens with ground-truth labels. Additionally, we introduce a Class Token Regularization Module (CTRM) to improve the discriminative power of class tokens. Our Refinement Module (RM) further refines segmentation by combining class-specific attention and patch-level affinity from the Transformer branch with the CAMs from the CNN branch. HMCTANet achieves state-of-the-art performance, with mIoU scores of 69.0% and 68.4% on the PASCAL VOC 2012 validation and test sets, respectively, demonstrating the effectiveness of our approach for WSSS tasks.
Transforming Radiology Waste into Energy Wealth Using Super Capacitor
Authors: Venkatraman Pitchaikannu , Aggarwal Lalit Mohan , Choudhary Sunil , Jayachandran Hemalatha , Chandrasekar Sakthivel , Ambikapathi Nivetha
Published: August 2024

The challenge presented by fossil fuel energy usage and rising costs of energy storage materials has spurred the development of notably inexpensive and eco-friendly materials for energy storage. In this situation, the activated carbon derived from coconut shells through a straightforward activation process served as the active material in electrodes for environmentally conscious supercapacitors. Advanced studies using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy have confirmed that the activated carbon produced through this method exhibits a graphitic phase. Electrodes fabricated from this activated carbon demonstrated a specific capacitance of 8.99 F g−1 in an aqueous electrolyte (1.5 M H2SO4), utilizing expanded graphite sheets as the current collector substrates. Notably, when these electrodes were assembled with a polyethylene separator and used in a configuration that included charge collection from primary, scatter radiation, and electrolyte, they exhibited impressive storage capabilities and energy-power handling capacities. Specifically, they achieved a capacitance of 8.99 F g−1, a specific energy of 4.4860 W h kg−1, and a power density of 53.832 kW kg−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1. These high-performance values were maintained even at 30 A g−1, demonstrating the potential for broad applications in energy and power storage. After irradiation the super capacitor reaching the capacitance of 26.55 F g−1, a specific energy of 13.2484 W h kg−1, and a power density of 158.981 kW kg−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1. To our knowledge, this represents a novel method for creating supercapacitors using activated carbon, which is derived from scatter radiation, to enhance charge collection.
The increase of temperature and precipitation in the different regions of Tarim River Basin has spatial and temporal heterogeneity over 1961-2021.
Authors: Wang Siqi , Ailiyaer Aihaiti , Ali Mamtimin , Jian Peng , Liu Yongqiang , Yu Wang , Jiacheng Gao , Song Meiqi , Wen Cong , Yang Fan , Zhou Chenglong , Huo Wen , Yisilamu Wulayin , Sayit Hajigul
Published: August 2024

Based on the monthly temperature and precipitation observation data of 42 national meteorological stations in the Tarim River Basin (TRB) from 1961 to 2021, the spatiotemporal variation characteristics and differences of temperature and precipitation in the whole basin and its sub-basin were explored and quantified. The results showed that: 1) The average annual temperature and annual precipitation increase rate were 0.2 ℃/10a and 7.1 mm/10a during 1961 to 2021, respectively, with significant spatial and temporal distribution differences. 2) The first mode of the Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF1) for both temperature and precipitation showed a consistent pattern, while EOF2 showed an opposite pattern. 3) In the TRB sub-basin, the difference between the highest and lowest annual average temperature increase rates was 0.1 ℃/10a. Similarly, the difference between the highest annual precipitation increase rates (in the Aksu River Basin) and lowest (in the Cherchen River Basin and Tarim River Mainstream Region) was 0.9 mm/10a. 4) The Kaidu River Basin had a significantly lower winter mean temperature of -9.69 ℃ compared to other sub-basins. Additionally, seasonal precipitation varied greatly among sub-basins, particularly in summer. 5) The annual mean temperature showed a strong positive correlation with the global mean temperature (coefficients over 0.5 for most sites), while the correlation for annual precipitation was weaker but still positive, ranging from 0.2 to 0.5. Significant positive correlations were observed for seasonal mean temperatures, especially in summer and autumn. Seasonal precipitation correlations were generally lower but had notable impacts in summer and autumn, particularly in sub-basins like Hotan River Basin and Aksu River Basin.
Estimation of cut-off value for the Cyberchondria Severity Scale-12 in Chinese population
Authors: Xu Richard Huan
Published: August 2024

Objective
This study aims to establish cut-off points for the Cyberchondria Severity Scale – 12 item version (CSS-12) to enhance its clinical and research use. Addressing this gap is essential for improving the diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of cyberchondria (CYB), ultimately benefiting affected individuals.
Methods
Data used in this study obtained from a cross-sectional and web-based survey to investigate the CYB in general Chinese population. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to assess the association between measures. receiver operating characteristic curve was used to estimate the cut-off value of CSS-12 and to assess their sensitivity and specificity for identifying “No CYB” and “with CYB” based on the score of GAD-7 and PHQ-9, respectively.
Results
A total of 1154 individuals, who completed CSS-12, GAD-7, and PHQ-9 were included in the data analysis. The correlations among these measures were moderate to strong and statistically significant (r = 0.37 and 0.40). The cut-off values for CSS-12 were calculated to be 36 for with CYB vs. without CYB based on GAD-7 (sensitivity, 85.2%; specificity, 55.3%; AUC, 0.69) and PHQ-9 (sensitivity, 81.4%; specificity, 51.8%; AUC, 0.67).
Conclusion
The CSS-12 cut-off value was determined in this study. This threshold enhances the specificity of CSS-12 utilization, thereby facilitating more accurate identification and management of CYB.
Dokdo sea lion Zalophus japonicus genome reveals its evolutionary trajectory before extinction
Authors: Kim Jungeun , Blazyte Asta , Choi Jae-Pil , Kim Changjae , Sharko Fedor , Jeon Sungwon , Kim Eun-Mi , Sohn Hawsun , Lee Jong Hee , Kim Hyun Woo , Yoo Mi Hyun , Lee Kyunglee , Nedoluzhko Artem , Bhak Jong
Published: August 2024

Background
The Dokdo sea lion (Zalophus japonicus), commonly referred to as Gangchi in Korea also known as the Japanese sea lion, was endemic to the Northwest Pacific coast before becoming extinct in the 1950s. Little is known about its origins and speciation compared to other Otariidae species or how the rapid decline affected the species’ genetic diversity.
Results
To raise the Dokdo sea lion from this relative obscurity, we sequenced DNA from 16 Z. japonicus’ bone fragments, obtained from Dokdo and Ulleungdo islands in Korea. Our genome-wide SNP-based analyses establish Z. japonicus as the earliest diverged species within its genus, significantly redefining its evolutionary relationship with the California (Z. californianus) and Galapagos (Z. wollebaeki) sea lions. Our research further elucidates the phylogeny of Z. japonicus, shedding light on the complexity of the genetic isolation process within its genus that was prompted by the geographic isolation of the three populations of Zalophus ancestral stock. Conversely, the genetic signature of Dokdo sea lion genome can be modeled as an evolutionary pathway involving gene flow from Otariidae species with shared range. In addition, we discovered, population decline of the Z. japonicus started already over 1,000 years ago, however, Z. japonicus genome maintained a relatively high heterozygosity despite nearing extinction.
Conclusions
Our genome-scale analysis has eliminated ambiguity in the phylogeny of Z. japonicus and shed light on the evolutionary pathways underlying its speciation and the genetic diversity before its extinction. Broadly, this study highlights the importance of genome-scale analysis for the extinct marine megafauna to elucidate the complexity of their gene flow and subsequent genetic diversities among extant species. Furthermore, this study offers retrospective genomic insights into the extinction process of a carnivorous marine mammal, information that could aid conservation efforts towards extant Otariidae species.
Sedimentary stratigraphic uncertainty: A quantitative analysis framework based on information theory and stochastic processes
Authors: Lei Zhicheng , Yan Dezhi , Xu Bo , Lei Ping , Li Songze , Wang Yanli
Published: August 2024

Sedimentary stratigraphic sequences are crucial archives of Earth's geological history, providing significant insights into paleoenvironments, climate changes, tectonic activities, and hydrocarbon reservoirs. However, the complexity of subsurface conditions and incomplete knowledge often introduce substantial uncertainty into stratigraphic interpretations. This paper proposes a comprehensive framework for quantifying, communicating, and analyzing stratigraphic uncertainty by incorporating principles from information theory and stochastic processes. Our methodology integrates Markov chains, Poisson processes, and Markov pure-jump processes to mathematically represent the stochastic nature of stratigraphic units, boundaries, and sequences. We also formulate entropy models aligned with these stochastic processes, establishing a robust foundation for addressing uncertainty. Through detailed case studies across diverse sedimentary environments—such as marine sandstones, braided river deltas, and meandering river systems—our findings reveal several key insights: (1) Stratigraphic states within a sequence can be accurately predicted using the Markov chain model, with entropy and entropy rate serving as effective metrics for gauging sequence predictability; (2) The asymptotic equipartition property theorem indicates that the number of stratigraphic sequences increases exponentially with entropy and sequence length, underscoring the stochastic complexity inherent in stratigraphic sequences; (3) Entropy and entropy rate values allow us to quantitatively distinguish between various sedimentary environments. Additionally, the stationary probability of the Markov pure-jump process aids in quantitatively assessing differences among stratigraphic sequences within similar sedimentary contexts; (4) Quantifying the uncertainty associated with stratigraphic states and their thicknesses provides valuable geological insights, aiding geologists in making informed decisions. We also present a sensitivity analysis of our approach and outline directions for future research. The insights gained from this study underscore the potential of our methodology in enhancing the understanding of stratigraphic sequence uncertainty, facilitating more informed decision-making in related disciplines. This research paves the way for a more quantitative approach to stratigraphy.
Thermodynamic electromagnetic energy analysis of a superconducting shielding magnetic field
Authors: Gang Zheng Yong
Published: August 2024

The Meissner effect is a special property of superconductors. In this paper, based on the characteristics of the Meissner effect, a superconducting phase transition model of a superconductor under a changing magnetic field is proposed. A thermodynamic analysis was performed on the model to calculate both the changes in the thermodynamic parameters of the superconductor during the phase transition and the changes in the overall electromagnetic quantity of the model. For Model 1 in the present study, the thermodynamic electromagnetic energy of the superconductor was not conserved due to the phase change of the superconductor under a changing magnetic field.
Recent Progress in Biomarker Detection in Cardiovascular and Renal Diseases
Authors: Prajapati Upendra , Yadav Akash , Jain Dinesh Kumar
Published: August 2024

Cardiorenal syndrome is a clinical condition in which there is a correlation between heart and kidney diseases. In recent times, many biomarkers have been studied in patients with cardiovascular diseases for developing proper knowledge of renal function and identifying patients who are more susceptible to chronic or acute deterioration of renal function. Because diagnostic and prognostic usefulness of a single time point biomarker is limited, biomarkers should be combined and monitored at multiple times for optimal clinical impact. This review mainly lays emphasis on the potential clinical uses of the biomarkers in cardiorenal syndrome, recent advancements of biomarkers in developing therapeutic agents for Alzheimer’s disease, and classification of different types of biomarkers as well as highlights classic heart failure biomarkers with critical values adjusted to glomerular filtration rate and summarizes research progress of new heart failure biomarkers and future research directions.
Constructive Teaching Methods for Shalya Tantra - A Descriptive Review from Primeval to Current Practice
Authors: Hanifa Nasreen , Kumar P. Hemantha
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Teaching and learning are two sides of a coin that must go hand in hand. The educational plans should be planned in such a way which could boost not only the conceptual understanding but also be able to develop practical skills and knowledge of the students. Various teaching modalities have been evolved with time but no literature is found with respect to Shalya tantra. The father of Surgery, Acharya sushruta also gave a special emphasis on teaching methods which are still pertinent with current practice. Methods: In this article, we are presenting a descriptive review from primeval time to the current practice of teaching methods especially for the fraternity of the Ayurvedic surgical branch. The work is compiled after extensively reviewing literature of both classical and contemporary literature as well as published works in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Results: No standardized data have been published so far in reference to effective teaching methods particularly for Shalya tantra scholars and the fundamentals of quality learning are disregarded. Discussion and Conclusion: The best teaching method is the one which arouses the student’s interest and in relation to surgical branch, theoretical knowledge is just the base whereas hand-to-hand surgical training must be mandatorily followed to impart the best of skills.
Development of ARenal Android Application: A Supplementary Tool in Learning the Human Urinary System
Authors:   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia, Mohamad Zainal Nurul Hayati , Naim Muhammad Haris ,   Bachelor of Computer Science (Multimedia), Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia, Mohd Nor Nurul Huda ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia, Thani Suryati Mohd ,   Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia, Rahmat Rahmita Wirza O.K. ,   Department of Multimedia, Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: August 2024

Augmented reality (AR) is an interactive three-dimensional (3D) experience that uses computers to overlay virtual information in the real world. We aimed to develop an online 3D AR of human urinary system (HUS) as a supplementary tool to aid in the teaching and learning process whether via online or traditional teaching methods, particularly for undergraduate medical students. Augmented reality human urinary system (ARenal) is an Android application that implements AR for better comprehension of the HUS. It is an original work of 3D models, diagrams, pictures, notes, self-recording videos, quizzes and a manual. The AR elements will improve learning effectiveness and attention span, enabling students to comprehend anatomical principles, basic physiology, and common disorders of HUS. Instead of 3D on paper, students can access educational resources and AR tools via a detailed 3D kidney model on Android devices. The user acceptability testing (UAT) (n = 10) revealed that 60% of participants indicated it was their first experience with AR, and 60% strongly agreed that ARenal was operating well. They also strongly agreed that it is user-friendly (50%). Most participants expressed a higher level of acceptability for ARenal and recommended adding more activities, games, quizzes, and other features to the 3D model for better interaction. In conclusion, ARenal has the potential to be employed as an additional aid for learning the HUS.