bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
L’ATLANTE DEI COLORI E L’ITALIANO LS: DAI CROMONIMI ALLA “CROMODIDATTICA”
Authors: Barbi Maurizio N.
Published: November 2024

Il nostro contributo ha come oggetto l’acquisizione dei cromonimi nell’insegnamento dell’italiano LS per apprendenti di livello B e C del QCER. In base alle nostre ricerche, il lessico inerente ai colori viene presentato solitamente al livello A del QCER e limitatamente ai colori primari e secondari, senza trattare ai livelli successivi le numerose sfumature cromatiche attestate nella lingua italiana. Pertanto, reputiamo opportuno estendere ed adeguare le attività didattiche afferenti ai cromonimi al percorso formativo di tutti gli studenti, poiché il lessico dei colori contribuisce alla rappresentazione simbolica della realtà (Adamo e Della Valle, 2008). Il metodo della nostra ricerca, affine all’approccio naturale di Krashen (Piva, 2000) ha come corpus principale l’Atlante dei colori del vocabolario Zingarelli. Oltre ai cromonimi, ricorriamo anche ad alcune fra le molte espressioni idiomatiche registrate nel vocabolario Zingarelli 2023 attinenti ai colori. Questo corpus secondario consente di sviluppare attività didattiche integrate (Catricalà, 2001) e ludiche (Mollica, 2010), le quali, attraverso i cromonimi, veicolano contenuti linguistici e culturali e perciò potrebbero trovare una collocazione nei manuali di italiano LS di livello intermedio e avanzato. L’obiettivo che la nostra ricerca si pone è quindi duplice. Innanzitutto intendiamo presentare a fini didattici un repertorio completo dei cromonimi registrati in uno dei maggiori vocabolari dell’uso italiani (lo Zingarelli 2023). In secondo luogo, gli studenti di livello intermedio e avanzato possono migliorare la loro conoscenza della lingua italiana e la loro competenza comunicativa attraverso il complesso delle attività didattiche attinenti ai colori, che costituiscono la “cromodidattica”.
Influence de l'environnement économique sur l'aménagement forestier en Afrique tropicale
Authors: Vannière Bernard
Published: November 2024

Il convient de distinguer les méthodes de sylviculture qui, en Afrique tropicale, aboutissent toutes à la constitution de plantations équiennes, des systèmes de gestion forestière dont l'objectif est d'assurer la transition entre une forêt naturelle irrégulière et une forêt régénérée enrichie et uniformisée.Deux grands systèmes de gestion s'offrent au forestier :- Un système monocyclique uniforme, adapté aux forêts à fort volume exploitable.- Un système polycyclique irrégulier, adapté aux forêts ayant une structure équilibrée et un faible volume immédiatement exploitable, de sorte qu'il n'y a pas de risque de gaspillage lors de l'abattage.Le choix entre les deux systèmes dépend en grande partie du volume exploitable à l'hectare de la forêt, qui dépend lui-même de :- La liste des essences considérées comme commercialisables.- De leur diamètre exploitable.Ces deux facteurs sont en grande partie dictés par l'environnement économique de la forêt à développer, et ils dépendent notamment de :- La destination des bois.- L'importance relative du marché de travail et du marché intérieur.- Les facilités en matière d'industries de transformation du bois.- Les coûts d'exploitation et les coûts de transport.- des facilités en matière de voies de communication.Le type d'exploitation adopté entre également en ligne de compte et détermine dans une large mesure la superficie des unités de gestion, qui peuvent communément dépasser 100 000 ha.Enfin, des contraintes d'ordre social, résultant notamment de la pression rurale d'une population dense ou de l'absence d'un système d'irrigation, sont également à prendre en considération.
Perbandingan Regulasi dan Kondisi Faktual Penggunaan Pestisida di Asia Tenggara
Authors: Jauhani Muhammad Afiful , Latiefah Noer Widiastuti  , Muhammad Naufal Hibatullah  , Samuel Hendrik Marpaung
Published: November 2024

Indonesia merupakan negara agraris dengan 40,6 juta penduduknya bekerja pada sektor pertanian. Akan tetapi, saat ini pemerintah Indonesia masih mengimpor produk pertanian dari negara lain, khususnya di Asia Tenggara, untuk memenuhi kebutuhan konsumsi dalam negeri. Kegiatan pertanian di berbagai negara umumnya menggunakan pestisida sebagai pengendali hama sehingga produk pertanian sangat mungkin terpapar pestisida yang menyebabkan gangguan kesehatan. Dalam rangka pengendalian dampak gangguan kesehatan akibat pestisida, diperlukan kebijakan pemerintah. Namun, kebijakan yang ada saat ini belum sepenuhnya dilaksanakan sehingga perlu diketahui kondisi faktual mengenai penggunaan pestisida. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis peraturan dan kondisi faktual mengenai penggunaan pestisida pada negara-negara di Asia Tenggara. Metode penelitian menggunakan tinjauan literatur menggunakan PICO dan kriteria inklusi yang telah ditentukan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa negara-negara di Asia Tenggara telah memiliki regulasi yang mengatur tentang pestisida, meskipun masih terdapat beberapa negara yang belum mengatur perihal pestisida secara menyeluruh, Misalnya Singapura belum mencntumkan aspek pengujian, pembuatan, iklan, dan pemusnahan; Brunei Darussalam belum mencantumkan aspek pengujian, iklam, dan pencabutan izin.. Faktanya, masih banyak permasalahan terkait kepatuhan dan penerapan aturan mengenai penggunaan pestisida yang berdampak pada keamanan pangan pada negara-negara di Asia Tenggara. Peran pemerintah untuk mengendalikan dampak negatif yang diakibatkan pestisida masih perlu untuk dioptimalkan, melalui monitoring dan evaluasi ketat terhadap penggunaan pestisida dan pengawasan terhadap keamanan produk pangan hasil pertanian.
Sensitifitas Antibiotik Pada Keratitis : Tinjauan Sistematis
Authors: Sulihah Nurfaizah titisari
Published: November 2024

Keratitis bakteri merupakan salah satu yang paling banyak terjadi pada jenis infeksi keratitis. Penggunaan antibiotik yang tepat sangat penting dalam penanganan keratitis bakteri dan mengurangi terjadinya risiko resistensi antibiotik. Tinjauan sistematis ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui sensitivitas antibiotik pada keratitis bakteri untuk memandu pengambilan keputusan pengobatan yang tepat pada praktik klinis. Tinjauan sistematis dilakukan berdasarkan pedoman PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). Pencarian literatur dilakukan dari beberapa basis data, termasuk PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google schoolar dan Cochrane Library, yang diterbitkan dari tahun 2014 hingga 2024, menggunakan kata kunci berikut ("keratitis") AND ("antibiotics" OR "antibacterial agents" OR "antimicrobial treatment" OR "anti infective agents") AND ("antibiotic sensitivity" OR "drug sensitivity" OR "susceptibility testing"). Data yang diekstraksi dari studi yang disertakan adalah karakteristik studi, identifikasi bakteriologis, dan sensitivitas antimikroba. Tinjauan sistematis ini mengidentifikasi enam belas artikel, kami menyertakan 5 laporan tentang identifikasi kultur bakteri dan sensitivitas antibiotik. Bakteri gram positif paling sering ditemukan adalah Streptococcus pneumonia dan taphylococcus aureus diikuti dengan bakteri gram negatif yang paling banyak diisolasi adalah Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antibiotik yang paling sensitif terhadap bakteri gram positif adalah vancomycin, cefazolin, sementara bakteri gram negatif sensitif terhadap amikacin, ciprofloxacin dan ceftazidim.
La regulación de la inteligencia artificial en la Directiva de trabajo en plataformas digitales
Authors: Todolí Sígnes Adrián
Published: November 2024

La recientemente aprobada Directiva de trabajo en plataformas digitales con­tiene dos partes bien diferenciadas. De un lado, regula una presunción de laboralidad para todos los trabajadores de plataformas digitales. De otro lado, establece garantías, individuales y colectivas, para trabajadores y autónomos frente a la dirección algorítmica (o uso de la Inteligencia Artificial en el traba­jo). El objeto de este trabajo es el análisis de la segunda parte de la normativa: las protecciones frente al uso de la inteligencia artificial, para dirigir y contro­lar el trabajo, existentes en la Directiva. Para ello, en primer lugar, se analiza el ámbito de aplicación de la Directiva dado que el concepto de “plataforma digital” requiere ser interpretado para conocer a qué plataformas les resulta de aplicación la normativa. En segundo lugar, respecto a las garantías frente a la dirección algorítmica se estudia su relación con otras garantías existentes anteriormente como es el RGPD, así como el alcance contenido y problemas interpretativos que surgen de la nueva normativa. Por último, resultado del análisis y de los problemas interpretativos encontrados se realiza una serie de recomendaciones para su transposición.
As crianças estão nas praças?
Authors: Alberto Klaus Chaves , Fernandes Rodrigo Queiroz Kühni , Beraldo Eduarda Botti , Barcellos Bernardo Lima Pinto , Barbosa Sabrina Andrade
Published: November 2024

A disponibilidade e qualidade de parques infantis nas cidades podem contribuir para o bem-estar da população ao incentivar um uso diversificado dos espaços livres públicos. Este estudo tem como objetivo identificar as relações entre a presença de crianças, a quantidade e a qualidade de playgrounds nas praças de Juiz de Fora - MG. Para isso, foram avaliadas todas as suas praças (n=95) considerando: a presença de usuários (faixa etária, gênero, nível de atividade física) e de playgrounds (disponibilidade e qualidade dos seus Equipamentos de Recreação Infantil - ERIs). Os resultados indicam que apenas 60% das praças possuem playground com aproximadamente 40% da população morando a menos de 400m destes equipamentos. As praças com playground registraram maior número de crianças realizando atividades físicas vigorosas. A quantidade e a variedade dos ERIs disponíveis nas praças é reduzida, no entanto, maior quantidade e diversidade de ERIs também foi relacionada com maiores níveis de atividades físicas. Destaca-se que apenas 43% dos ERIs atenderam aos requisitos de segurança avaliados. Os resultados deste estudo apontam a necessidade de revisão do planejamento e gestão das praças da cidade para ampliar a quantidade, a diversidade, o conforto e a segurança de seus playgrounds.
Profile of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Patients at Dr. M. Djamil Central Public Hospital from 2018-2022
Authors: Akbar Inasa Faiza , Sahputra Roni Eka , Elfi Eka Fithra , Rahmadian Rizki , Rusjdi Dina Arfiani , Silvia Nelmi
Published: November 2024

Background: Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS) is a pathological condition characterized by narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back. In Indonesia, comprehensive data on LSS is currently unavailable. This study aimed to determine the profile of LSS patients at Dr. M. Djamil Central Public Hospital.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study utilized medical record data from 122 LSS patients at Dr. M. Djamil Central Public Hospital between 2018 and 2022, selected via consecutive sampling. Inclusion criteria included age over 18 years and a confirmed LSS diagnosis. Exclusion criteria included incomplete medical records, lack of MRI results, and follow-up visits without treatment. Univariate analysis was performed using SPSS 25.0 to describe patient characteristics, causative factors, symptoms, location of stenosis, and management type.
Results: In this study, 122 samples met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. LSS was mainly found in patients aged 60-69 years (33.6%) and in women (59%). Most LSS patients had obesity (BMI category I, 32%). Many LSS patients were housewives (42.62%) and reported light work activity (63.1%). The most common cause of LSS was degenerative factors (59%). The main symptom experienced by LSS patients was lower back pain (94.3%), frequently accompanied by radicular pain (79.5%). The most common location of stenosis was L4-L5 (43.4%). Most LSS patients in this study were managed both conservatively and operatively (70.5%).
Conclusion: These findings contribute to a better understanding of LSS prevalence and distribution among patients. Further multicenter studies are needed to establish a comprehensive national LSS profile.
Sandy soil spots in northwestern Paraná: approaches for identification and quantification
Authors: Santos Leonardo José Cordeiro , Oliveira José Guilherme , Breunig Fabio Marcelo , Calegari M´árcia Regina , Berra Elias Fernando , Fidalski Jonez
Published: November 2024

The predominance of sandy soils in the Northwest region of the state of Paraná, associated with the removal of natural vegetation, favored the development of patches of white sand on the surface without any aggregation. These spots are associated with the different types of land use existing in the region and the process of lateral soil transformation. As they constitute material without aggregation, they can be easily transported by wind and water and deposited in water bodies, causing severe environmental impacts.  Thus, using thermal infrared satellite images, the objective of the present study was to map, determine the formation process of the spots and estimate the predominant particle size fractions. The model used and validated with field and laboratory information, allowed the identification of surfaces with patches of white sand present in the study region and estimating their percentage in different classes. After filtering the samples with vegetation cover during the product calculation period, an R² of 0.78 was obtained. The removal of natural vegetation has contributed to the formation and expansion of sandy patches and erosion in the northwest region of Paraná.
Gradual expansion of the indications for minimally invasive liver resection to include highly complex procedures may improve postoperative outcomes
Authors: Sawa Yui , Kawaguchi Yoshikuni , Miyata Akinori , Nishioka Yujiro , Ichida Akihiko , Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Kaneko Junichi , Hasegawa Kiyoshi
Published: November 2024

Aim: Liver resection is performed in patients with benign and malignant liver tumors. Advancements in surgical instruments and improved perioperative management have enabled safe laparoscopic and robotic liver resections. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the patients who underwent minimally invasive liver resection (MISLR) and compare their short-term outcomes with those of patients who underwent open liver resection (OLR), according to surgical complexity.

Methods: Data of patients who underwent liver resection at our institution from January 2011 to August 2023 were obtained from a prospectively maintained database. We gradually expanded the indications for MISLR from technically less demanding procedures to intermediate- and high-complexity MISLRs. The procedures were categorized into three grades (low, intermediate, and high) according to the liver resection complexity classification.

Results: Of the 1,866 patients who underwent liver resection, 953 were included in the analysis. Of the 953 patients, 781 underwent OLR and 172 underwent MISLR. The operative time and estimated blood loss increased with the increase in surgical complexity in the MISLR group, which was similar to finding in the OLR group. The complication rate also increased with the increase in surgical complexity in the OLR group (low complexity vs. high complexity, 34.8% vs. 50.1%). However, the complication rate was steadily low and approximately 10% across all complexity grades in the MISLR group.

Conclusion: Careful selection and gradual expansion of the indications of MISLR may facilitate improved postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing highly complex MISLRs.
Fungi that are medically relevant to humans and their prospect in a global warming scenario
Authors: Franco Bernardo , Vargas-Maya Naurú Idalia , Padilla-Vaca Felipe , Ramírez-Montiel Fátima Berenice , Martínez-Álvarez José Ascención
Published: November 2024

Pathogenic fungi are medically important organisms that have recently attracted a great deal of attention due to their exacerbated virulence in an uncontrolled global warming scenario. The identification, treatment, and control of these fungi are time consuming and complicated. This review focuses on the most important aspects of some of these fungi, specifically from the genera Sporothrix, Cryptococcus, Histoplasma, and Paracoccidioides. It also explains how the biological traits of these fungi allow them to adapt to their surrounding environment and evade the host immune system. Their ability to survive in different cellular forms makes the treatment and control of infections and outcomes more complicated. Finally, we discuss and provide data suggesting the prevalence of pathogenic fungi is a major threat to human health in developing countries due to increasing global warming.
Effects of 30-Year Deficiency Fertilization and Chemical Fertilizer Reduction with Burned Soil on Cassava Yield and Rhizosphere Soil Microbial Community
Authors: Wei Yunxia , Huang Jie , Xu Ruili , Xue Xinxin
Published: November 2024

The impacts of prolonged nutrient-deficiency fertilization on the rhizosphere soil microbial community and crop yield remains largely underexplored. This study analyzed rhizosphere soil samples collected from a 30-year cassava monoculture field, comprising six fertilization treatments: balanced fertilization (NPK), nitrogen deficiency (PK), phosphorous deficiency (NK), potassium deficiency (NP), no fertilization (-NPK) and 50% NPK supplemented with burned soil (FNPK). Measurements included storage root yield, soil properties, and microbial community. Compared to NPK treatment, deficiency fertilization (PK, NK, NP, and -NPK) significantly decreased cassava yield by 38.6%, 21.3%, 38.1%, and 61.6%, respectively, while FNPK treatment maintained yield levels. The NK treatment intensified soil acidification, and the NP treatment accelerated soil organic carbon depletion. Conversely, FNPK treatment significantly improved rhizosphere soil pH and nutrients content. Long-term deficiency fertilization showed no significantly impact on bacterial and fungal richness (Chao1 index) and diversity (Shannon index), whereas FNPK markedly increased bacterial richness and diversity and modified bacterial and fungal β-diversity in rhizosphere soil. Soil pH was emerged as the primary driver of microbial community shifts. Bacterial communities in FNPK treatment exhibited reduced abundance in Acidobacteriota and Crenarchaota phyla and an increase in genus RB41 of Acidobacteriota and MND1 of Proteobacteria. FNPK also shifted the dominant fungal phyla from Ascomycota to Basidiomycota, and reduced the genus Melanconiella, associated with decreased plant wilt incidence. Treatments PK, NK, and -NPK suppressed the functional abundance of key bacterial and fungal groups, whereas FNPK significantly enhanced bacterial Chemoheterotrophy function, positively correlated with yield, and increased the abundance of undefined saprotrophic and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal functional groups. Collectively, these findings indicate that prolonged nitrogen-based chemical fertilization intensifies soil acidification, adversely affecting the composition and function of soil microbial communities. The integration of burned soil with chemical fertilizer demonstrates potential in enhancing soil fertility and microbial diversity, offering insights for optimizing fertilization strategies in tropical cassava production systems.
Seasonal Variations in the Leaf Temperature of Four Common Tropical Woody Plants
Authors: He Qiuyu , Jiang Dalong , Nie Tao , Cui Heyang , Jiao Keyi , Guan Yali
Published: November 2024

Leaf temperature (Tleaf) is a critical factor influencing plant ecophysiological processes and ecosystem responses to environmental changes. In this study, we investigated the seasonal Tleaf variations among different growth forms (shrubs and trees) of four common tropical woody species in South China and identified the dominant drivers of Tleaf. We hypothesized that Tleaf patterns between shrubs and trees would differ significantly between dry and rainy seasons and that leaf traits and environmental temperature would predominantly affect Tleaf among species. From December 2022 to October 2023, we measured Tleaf, leaf traits, and environmental conditions. The results revealed that Tleaf was consistently greater than air temperature (Tair) across all species, growth forms, and seasons. The regression line slopes between Tair and Tleaf indicated limited homeothermy, with significant differences observed between seasons. Trees had higher Tleaf values than shrubs across dry and rainy seasons, possibly due to their distinct microclimatic adaptations. Leaf chlorophyll content (LCC) and leaf mass per area (LMA) were significant predictors of Tleaf. Furthermore, while soil temperature (Tsoil) positively influenced Tleaf, Tair had a negative effect on Tleaf. Our findings suggest that Tleaf is intricately linked to leaf traits and environmental conditions, with implications for plant performance and ecosystem dynamics.
Towards Self-Aware AI: Embodiment, Feedback Loops, and the Role of the Insula in Consciousness
Authors: Watchus Berend
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the mechanisms through which self-awareness and consciousness may arise in artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Drawing upon concepts from neuroscience, cognitive science, and embodied cognition, we propose that these phenomena can emerge through the integration of sensory feedback loops and embodied systems. By simulating the insula’s role in processing bodily feedback, AI systems could achieve a form of self-awareness that is not just a byproduct of computation but a fundamental aspect of their functioning. This paper explores how self-awareness and consciousness may arise from these mechanisms, providing a novel direction for AI research that could pave the way for truly embodied and self-aware AI systems.
Effect of ABCB1 Expression on Measurable Residual Disease in Adult Patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Ramos Peñafiel Christian Omar , Martínez Tovar Adolfo , Pérez Sámano Daniela , Cerón-Maldonado Rafael , Gallardo Rodriguez Adán German , Martínez Murillo Carlos , Olarte Carrillo Irma
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: The prognosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia has changed radically since the incorporation of innovative therapies such as immunotherapy, tyrosine kinase blockers, and CAR-T-based therapy. In lymphoblastic leukemia, both the expression and different types of polymorphisms in resistance proteins (ABCB1), have been associated with greater resistance to drugs from cell lines to clinical different scenarios. Although measurable residual disease is the best tool for monitoring acute lymphoblastic leukemia´s treatment, its association with the ABCB1 gene is still unknown. Aims: to describe the association of the expression of the ABCB1 resistance gene with measurable residual disease. Methods: Prospective cohort where 37 patients with de novo diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia were admitted to the Hospital General de México “Dr. Eduardo Liceaga” between 2022 and 2024. Results: A total of 57 patients who began chemotherapy-based treatment were studied, the majority were male (n=30, 52.6%), with a mean age of 32 years (range 18 to 71 years). When analyzing the expression of the ABCB1 drug resistance gene, 35.1% (n=20) were considered to have low expression, 40.4% (n=23) overexpressed the gene and 24.6% (n=14) showed absent expression. Association was not identified between MRD positivity with the Philadelphia chromosome (p=0.171, 95% CI) or the ABCB1 group considered high risk (high or absent expression) (p=0.538, 95% CI). Conclusions: In conclusion, identifying drug-resistance genes remains useful for acute leukemias while the treatment remains chemotherapy-based. Nevertheless, in an age of personalized medicine, the determination of MRD is the main prognosis factor that could predict a failure in therapy.
Research on Cloud Infrastructure for Large-Scale Parallel Computing in Genetic Disease
Authors: Wu Wei
Published: November 2024

The exponential growth in the amount of data generated by genomic studies of genetic diseases reflects the rapid development of this field. The limitations of traditional on-premises computing resources, in terms of compute speed, storage scalability and parallel processing power, make it challenging to cope with the exponential growth in data. In this paper, we put forward a cloud-based multi-layer parallel computing framework designed to accelerate and optimise high-throughput analysis of genetic data. Firstly, the elastic expansion characteristics of the cloud platform are employed to distribute the genetic data stored in the object storage system, thereby enabling the dynamic reading and processing of the data. Subsequently, the integration of containerisation and virtualisation technologies enables the implementation of massively parallel computing on a multi-node cloud cluster, allowing each node to independently process disparate gene sub-data blocks. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed framework exhibits superior performance in terms of data processing speed and computational efficiency compared to traditional local computing methods.
Learning Optimal Strategies in a Duel Game
Authors: Gkekas Angelos , Apostolidou Athina , Vernadou Artemis , Kehagias Athanasios
Published: November 2024

We study a duel game in which each player has partial knowledge of the game parameters. We present a method by which, in the course of repeated plays, each player estimates the missing parameters and consequently learns his optimal strategy.
Burnout, Resilience and Needs Satisfaction: Exploring the Associations in Basketball Athletes
Authors: Kostopoulos Nikolaos , Rachiotis Theodoros , Mitsopoulos Nikos , Armenis Elias
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study is to explore the degree to which basketball players might be shielded from burnout by their psychological resilience. The investigation assessed the resilience, physical and mental burnout, reduced sense of accomplishment, and depreciation of sport among athletes. The results indicated that reduced levels of burnout elements were associated with increased resilience, highlighting the importance of resilience in supporting athletes' well-being. The findings suggest that maintaining intrinsic motivation and avoiding burnout are contingent upon the fulfilment of essential psychological needs. Resilience and fatigue levels differed based on age, gender, and competition level, highlighting the necessity for tailored therapy. The findings indicate that specific interventions, including psychological training and enhancing social support systems, could enhance resilience and reduce burnout, ultimately promoting a more sustainable and healthier sporting atmosphere. The findings highlight the connection between resilience, psychological needs, and burnout, thereby enhancing existing theoretical frameworks and offering crucial guidance for sports organizations and coaches focused on enhancing athlete well-being.
Initial Steps in the Development of Vaca Muerta in Agua Del Cajon Field, Within the Black Oil Play
Authors: Bodini S. A. , Alvarez Gomez E. , Tripode J. E.
Published: November 2024

The Vaca Muerta Formation (Weaver, 1931) represents the principal hydrocarbon-generating rock unit of the Neuquén Basin and is currently being exploited as an unconventional resource via multi-fractured horizontal wells, accounting for 58% of Argentina's oil production and 67% of its gas production. Agua del Cajon Field (ADC), situated in the southeastern region of the Neuquén Basin is a mature asset featuring over 250 vertical wells producing gas and oil from diverse geological formations. Vertical well tests to Vaca Muerta Formation have been conducted in the field over the past 10 years, where the fluid could be verified and characterized, however with non-economic production rates.

In the year 2022, using the increased availability of high technology in the basin, a horizontal well of 1500 meters of lateral length was drilled to evaluate productivity. This well was one of the first horizontal wells drilled in the Vaca Muerta Formation in the southern east basin's edge. The Pilot well showed satisfactory results, allowing to continue the development with a four well pad of 2600 m lateral length in average. The preliminary results of both Pilot well and the pad will be discussed in this paper. While the geology and drilling will be briefly described, the focus of the analysis will be the completion of the wells, wells interaction, and production results
Efficiency and Operational Consistency in Horizontal Wells with Motorized Rotary System to Reduce Operation Time and Costs
Authors: Leon N. Fuenmayor , Carignano H. R.
Published: November 2024

Horizontal drilling of extended wells in Vaca Muerta, Argentina, in hostile environments with high temperatures close to 150°C, densities of 14.5ppg and high vibrations such as torsional, represents a major challenge. These extreme conditions require specified technologies and operating practices to achieve high penetration rates without compromising well integrity. Tortuosity is crucial to ensure hole cleaning and efficient trips to surface, and these conditions demand the appropriate solutions. Real-time monitoring technologies and automated drilling systems helped to improve drilling accuracy and efficiency in these challenging environments.

The implementation of advanced Rotary Steerable System (RSS) with automation capabilities provided by a high-performance mud motor and risk evaluation and mitigation, where key point to successfully address drilling challenges to propose the suitable solutions in the service design. Furthermore, was essential to have a dedicated team monitoring operations in real time, capable of issuing alerts and taking action to reduce or eliminate risks. This proactive approach improved safety and efficiency, facilitating the collection of valuable technical information. Once analyzed, this contributed to the creation of a repository of lessons learned, vital for continuous improvement.

The development of lateral lengths in horizontal wells was a significant milestone to maximize asset value, with extensions reaching more than of 4000 meters, duplicating the reservoir contact compared with the initial 2000 meters at the early stages. Also, the implementation of an autonomous steering control feature (Cruise Control), designed to manage laterals and tangents, by automatic adjusting the well inclination and direction to align with the planned trajectory, reducing well tortuosity and improving rate of penetration helped to maximize the drilling efficiency in lateral sections.
Prospects of Handling Digital Technology Disputes by Courts of Integration Associations
Authors: Talimonchik V. P.
Published: November 2024

Objective: to analyze the competence and procedure of case handling by the courts of integration associations, allowing them to resolve disputes related to information technologies, and to identify the prospects of handling of this category of disputes by the courts of integration associations.

Methods: the main research methods were analysis, synthesis, and problem-theoretical method.

Results: the article identified the main features of the “disputes related to digital technologies” category in relation to resolving disputes involving individuals by the courts of integration associations. It reveals opportunities for some courts of integration associations to resolve disputes related to information technologies. The said opportunities are provided by the courts competence, allowing the appeal of individuals, as well as by the dispute resolution procedure involving experts. By analyzing international treaties and practice of courts of integration associations, the author proves that the changes in the category of “disputes related to digital technologies” are related not only to technologies, but also to information and communication systems. By own judgments, the author reveals the content of disputes related to digital technologies in the courts of integration associations.

Scientific novelty: the paper reveals the peculiarities of the category “disputes related to digital technologies” in relation to the courts of integration associations and the prospects of resolving disputes related to information technologies by the courts of integration associations.

Practical significance: the conclusions provided in the article can be used to improve the practice of courts of integration associations.
Perceptions of palliative care among medical students: A thematic analysis
Authors: Chan Junji , Tee Tze Yuan , Lam Chee Loong , Loh Ee Chin , Zainuddin Sheriza Izwa , Paul Capelle David
Published: November 2024

Background: Palliative care (PC) needs are projected to increase and training future practitioners is an important response to this. While the specialty of PC has developed rapidly it is not yet universally integrated in healthcare. Advocacy has achieved improvements in this field but misperceptions of PC have remained in the general population.
Methods: A qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with medical students at a Malaysian university was conducted. Results were thematically analyzed.
Results: Fifteen students were interviewed. Seven themes were generated: (1) Understanding palliative care (2) communication (3) spirituality (4) ethical issues (5 education.
Conclusion: Perceptions of PC are relevant to the medical training and the development of PC.
Identification of a Resistance Exercise-Specific Signaling Pathway that Drives Skeletal Muscle Growth
Authors: Zhu Wenyuan , Thomas Aaron , Wilson Gary , Hibbert Jamie , Flynn Corey , McGlory Chris , Jorgenson Kent , Steinert Nathaniel , Lin Kuan-Hung , Coon Joshua , Phillips Stuart , MacInnis Martin , Hornberger Troy
Published: November 2024

A human model of unilateral endurance versus resistance exercise, in conjunction with deep phosphoproteomic analyses, was used to identify exercise mode-specific phosphorylation events. Among the outcomes, a resistance exercise-specific cluster of events was identified, and a multitude of bioinformatic- and literature-based predictions suggested that this was mediated by prolonged activation of a pathway involving MKK3b/6, p38, MK2, and mTORC1. Follow-up studies in humans and mice provide consistent support for the predictions and also revealed that resistance exercise-induced signaling through MKK3b and the induction of protein synthesis are highly correlated events (R = 0.87). Moreover, genetic activation of MKK3b/6 in skeletal muscles was sufficient to induce signaling through the members of the resistance exercise-specific pathway, as well as an increase in protein synthesis and fiber size. Thus, we propose that we have identified some of the core components of a signaling pathway that drives the growth-promoting effects of resistance exercise.
Utilizing Facies and lithofacies thin sections and laboratory experimental techniques for Late Cenomanian-Early Turonian carbonate reservoir characterization in an Iraqi oilfield, Iraq, Middle East region
Authors: Al-kanaani Nuhad , Jawad Mohammed Al , Al-Shahwan Mowafaq
Published: November 2024

Mishrif Formation holds significant importance as an oil-producing stratum, originating from shallow marine settings during the Late Cenomanian to Early Turonian period in southern Iraq. This study focuses on two specific wells, Rt2 and Rt5 in Ratawi oilfield, chosen as primary subjects. Collectively, more than 200 core samples were meticulously gathered from these wells and subjected to thin section analysis. Petrographic scrutiny of the thin sections unveiled that Mishrif Formation encompasses four primary facies and an additional ten secondary facies, which were deposited across a broad spectrum of environments, spanning from shallow marine to shallow or open lacustrine settings. The analysis of thin sections further confirmed the existence of diagenetic processes that influenced the rock properties of the formation. Among these processes were dissolution, cementation, and compaction, all contributing to the alteration of porosity characteristics. Notably, interparticle porosity, vuggy porosity, and intrafossil porosity emerged as the predominant forms of porosity within the formation. Distinct diagenetic environments were identified based on the findings, including shallow marine, mixed, and surface settings. The study revealed an evolution of facies traits and diagenetic processes towards the Rt5 well. Important parameters such as porosity, permeability and water saturation are determined. Correlations are used to assess permeability in uncored wells because direct measurement techniques, such as core analysis and well testing, are costly. Understanding fluid flow in the formation is aided by an exponential equation with R-squared values evaluating the fit between core permeability and porosity. By breaking the reservoir up into units and minimizing heterogeneity, the FZI approach provides the best regression. The usual method for predicting permeability is to divide well data into homogeneous subgroups according to hydraulic flow units and microfacies. By enhancing permeability projections and decreasing the requirement for extensive coring, porosity-permeability analysis offers insightful information. The novelty in this paper lies in identifying good reservoirs, understanding their extensions, determining the direction of facies development, and knowing locations where facies reservoir properties are expected to be present.
Curvularia species complex Associated with Brown Leaf Spot of Rice
Authors: Larbi-Koranteng Stephen , Adomako Joseph , Bukari Titus
Published: November 2024

Brown leaf spot disease (BLSD) of rice results in germination failure, seedling mortality, yield reduction and quality. The disease is distributed worldwide, reducing yield of rice to about 30–40%. The study sought to isolate brown leaf spot pathogen(s) from rice and determine their pathogenicity and identity (morphological and molecular). Diseased rice leaves with typical symptoms of BLSD were sampled and cut into pieces (1 cm), disinfected with 3% Clorox (commercial bleach), and arranged equidistantly on PDA medium in plates for fungal pathogen’s growth. The fungal pathogens were identified between 5–7 days after incubation using morphological features and later confirmed by molecular techniques using DNA sequencing and BLAST analysis. The isolation and virulence/pathogenicity study were carried out at Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Crop Research Institute (CRI), Kumasi. All isolates obtained during the study were then inoculated on 3-weeks-old rice seedlings. The isolates included C. lunata, C. soli, C. geniculata, C. senegalensis and C. subpapendorfii. All isolates showed symptoms of brown leaf spot similar to what was observed on field of rice plants after confirming through Koch postulate. The investigation on the pathogenicity of the obtained Curvularia isolates displayed the existence of a pathogenic variability among the isolates. Apart from C. lunata, which is the known pathogen associated with rice brown leaf spot disease in Ghana, new species such as C. soli, C. geniculata, C. senegalensis and C. subpapendorfii were found to be associated with rice in a disease complex and causing brown leaf disease individually, suggesting together they contribute to disease severity in a complex. The current study therefore suggests that C. soli, C. senegalensis, C. geniculata and C. subpapendorfii are in a complex with C. lunata, a known pathogen associated with blown leaf spot disease of rice in Ghana and their sequenced data have since been deposited at NCBI GenBank with the following assigned accession numbers; C. soli (PP564496), C. senegalensis (PP564498 and PP564499), C. geniculata (PP564502) and C. subpapendorfii (PP564501).
Comparative analysis of differential salinity tolerance in wheat species under hydroponic conditions
Authors: Malipatil Srivijay S. , Biradar Suma S. , Desai S. A. , C. Vishwasgowda. , S Gundlur S. , P.U. Krishnaraj , Singh S. K
Published: November 2024

Soil salinity is the major threat to crop production worldwide, particularly in arid regions of the world as global climate change is hastening the process of soil salinization. The development of crop cultivars that are salt tolerant, however, offers a more affordable, sustainable option. Hydroponic systems have evolved into a quick technique for evaluating a large number of genotypes for salt stress at the seedling stage. 140 wheat genotypes including bread wheat, durum and dicoccum wheat with check cultivars were evaluated at three different salinity levels along with control under hydroponic conditions. The relevance of seedling traits in screening salt tolerance was shown by studies on correlation, PCA (Principal Component Analysis), and broad sense heritability (h2bs). Salinity stress considerably reduced all seedling characteristics under study in terms of growth and physiological variables. The study on heritability (h2bs) indicated that all saline treatments exhibited high heritability (> 60%) for seedling parameters, including root length, shoot length, fresh weight, and dry weight. PCA and the Stress Tolerance Index (STI) identified the genotypes UASBW-13903, UASBW-13892, DIC-4, DIC-22, DIC-77, DIC-92, DIC-104, and DDK50507 as salt-tolerant, as they exhibited the smallest reductions in seedling traits under saline treatments. Based on the findings, a concentration of 150mM NaCl is found suitable and recommended for hydroponic culture-based preliminary salt tolerance screening of various wheat genotypes.
In-situ Reaction Compatibilization Modification of Biodegradable Poly (lactic acid)/Poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate) Blends by Multifunctional Epoxy Compound
Authors: Sun Chuang , Ren Liang , Qin Yixuan , Liu Xiangpeng , Shao Mingliang , Mu Guangming , Gao Yutong , Zhang Mingyao
Published: November 2024

Poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate) (P34HB) copolyester is a novel biodegradable polymer synthesized by microorganisms in recent years, however it cannot meet the people's daily production and living requirements owing to its poor strength. Thanks to their remarkable combination of good strength and high modulus, Poly (lactic acid) (PLA) is mixed with P34HB to enhance its strength, and the chain extender ADR-4370F is selected to modify PLA/P34HB blend via in-situ reaction compatibilization. The incorporation of 0.7 phr ADR into the 70/30 wt% PLA/P34HB blend promotes a remarkable increase of 181% in elongation at break compared to PLA/P34HB with 70/30 wt%. Meanwhile, the Izod impact strength, tensile strength and modulus of PLA blend increases by 60%, 20% and 22% compared with 70/30 wt% PLA/P34HB, respectively. Rheological results demonstrate that storage modulus, loss modulus, and complex viscosity enhance evidently with the elevation of ADR dosage, indicating that the improvement of melt strength is beneficial to the processing and forming of the materials. The compatibilization mechanism is investigated by infrared spectroscopy, and the epoxy groups in ADR is the most important factor to improve the compatibility and the mechanical properties of the blends.
Comparison of Dam Inflow Generation Techniques for Assessing Drought Coping Capacity
Authors: Lee Joohyung , Kim Young-Oh
Published: November 2024

Heavy rainfall during flood seasons has become more concentrated, whereas rainfall during dry seasons has decreased, owing to the impacts of climate change. Despite similar average annual precipitation, this phenomenon has led to the occurrence of stronger and more localized droughts. To address this issue, the Korea Water Resources Corporation (K-water) adopted the K-water disaggregation method (KDM) to manage dam operations efficiently by considering regional characteristics. KDM calculates the monthly inflow for the upcoming year using the correlation between the annual and monthly inflow frequency analysis results. However, the current implementation of KDM, which provides a single scenario, often exhibits significant discrepancies from the observed inflow. To overcome this limitation, this study proposes incorporating uncertainty through a disaggregation model to enhance the accuracy of inflow estimation. Thus, a wider range of inflow scenarios can be considered, thereby enhancing the strategy for dam operations. This study compared the inflow scenarios generated by two different methods and assessed the corresponding drought coping capacities expected from operating dams under these scenarios. The drought coping capacity assessment included calculating the Supply-day (S-day) and dam storage performance measures. The results indicated that KDM generally showed a lower S-day during the water supply seasons and exhibited a lower dam storage performance than the disaggregation method inflow scenarios. Consequently, the single scenario provided by KDM may distort the potential inflow scenarios for the target dam. Considering a range of monthly scenarios for an annual drought quantile proved advantageous for assessing drought coping capacity. This study issues a broader warning, not only for Korea but also for other countries, about the risks of relying on a single scenario for determining next-year drought inflows, which may increase the likelihood of encountering more severe droughts than anticipated.
RDS04-010: A novel atypical DAT inhibitor that inhibits cocaine taking and seeking and itself has low abuse potential in experimental animals
Authors: Xi Zheng-Xiong , Soler-Cedeño Omar , Galaj Ewa , Klein Benjamin , Cao Jianjing , Bi Guo-Hua , Newman Amy
Published: November 2024

Cocaine use disorder (CUD) is a severe public health problem, and currently, there is no FDA-approved medication for its treatment. Atypical dopamine (DA) transporter (DAT) inhibitors display low addictive liability by themselves and may have therapeutic potential for treatment of psychostimulant use disorders. Here, we report that RDS04-010, a novel atypical DAT inhibitor that binds to an inward-facing conformation of DAT due to its sulfoxide moiety, displayed distinct pharmacological profiles in animal models of addiction from its sulfide analog, RDS03-094, a DAT inhibitor that binds to a more outward-facing conformation. Systemic administration of RDS04-010 dose-dependently inhibited cocaine self-administration (SA), shifted the cocaine SA dose-response curve downward, decreased motivation for cocaine seeking under progressive ratio reinforcement conditions, and inhibited cocaine-primed reinstatement of drug-seeking behavior. RDS04-010 alone neither altered optical brain-stimulation reward nor evoked reinstatement of drug-seeking behavior. RDS04-010 substitution for cocaine was not able to maintain self-administration in rats trained to self-administer cocaine. In contrast, RDS03-094 displayed more cocaine-like reinforcing effects. Its pretreatment upward-shifted both the cocaine self-administration dose-response and optical brain-stimulation reward curves. RDS03-094 alone was able to reinstate extinguished cocaine-seeking behavior and sustain self-administration during a substitution test. Collectively, these findings suggest that RDS04-010 is a novel atypical DAT inhibitor with favorable therapeutic potential in reducing cocaine-taking and -seeking behavior with low addictive liability. Moreover, this extensive behavioral evaluation further confirms the role DAT binding conformation plays in the distinctive profiles of atypical DAT inhibitors that prefer the inward facing conformation.