bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aberrant Notch signaling in gliomas: a potential landscape of actionable converging targets for combination approach in therapies resistance
Authors: D’Amico Maria , De Amicis Francesca
Published: October 2022

The current therapeutic protocols and prognosis of gliomas still depend on clinicopathologic and radiographic characteristics. For high-grade gliomas, the standard of care is resection followed by radiotherapy plus temozolomide chemotherapy. However, treatment resistance develops due to different mechanisms, among which is the dynamic interplay between the tumor and its microenvironment. Different signaling pathways cause the proliferation of so-called glioma stem cells, a minor cancer cell population with stem cell-like characteristics and aggressive phenotype. In the last decades, numerous studies have indicated that Notch is a crucial pathway that maintains the characteristics of resistant glioma stem cells. Data obtained from preclinical models indicate that downregulation of the Notch pathway could induce multifaceted drug sensitivity, acting on the expression of drug-transporter proteins, inducing epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and shaping the tumor microenvironment. This review provides a brief overview of the published data supporting the roles of Notch in drug resistance and demonstrates how potential novel strategies targeting Notch could become an efficacious action to improve the therapy of high-grade glioma to overcome drug resistance.
Penerapan Sistem Monitoring Kualitas Air Berbasis Internet Of Things
Authors: Lestari Anindhita , Zafia Anggi
Published: October 2022

Desa Cendana memiliki sebuah PAMSIMAS yang digunakan sebagai kebutuhan sehari – hari oleh warga setempat, dimana air dari tandon PAMSIMAS tersebut didapatkan dari sumber utamanya yaitu sungai, namun terkadang air dari sungai tidak dapat diketahui tingkat kebersihannya. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menghasilkan sebuah alat yang dapat digunakan dalam memonitoring kualitas pada air. Oleh karena itu agar pengelola dapat mengecek kualitas air pada PAMSIMAS diperlukan sebuah solusi dalam hal tersebut agar pengelola dapat memonitoring kualitas dari air, yaitu dengan membuat perancangan sebuah alat sistem monitoring. Sistem monitoring ini dibangun dengan menggunakan Sensor Turbidity, Sensor TDS, Sensor pH, dan NodeMCU sebagai mikrokontroler, sehingga sistem ini dapat mengirimkan data hasil monitoring melalui website. Hasil dari penelitian ini yaitu terciptanya sebuah alat yang digunakan untuk melakukan monitoring jarak jauh dengan berbasis internet of things dengan persentase keberhasilan yaitu 86.6% dan persentase dari error yaitu 13,3%.
Dual-Converter Active Power Filter with Reduced Dynamic Losses: Control Synthesis and Modelin
Authors: Belousov A. V. , Skuriatin Y. V. , Denysevich N. A.
Published: October 2022

Nowadays, active power filters represent one of the most efficient means to reduce inactive power components which provides proper quality of electricity at common network connectivity points. Dynamic power losses in the valves that have a significant impact on the efficiency of the converter and, accordingly, determine the feasibility of using these filters in each specific situation, are among their key parameters. Along with the solution of the problem of ensuring the proper quality of electricity at common network connectivity points, the task of reducing dynamic losses in the valves becomes especially relevant. The purpose of the study is to increase the efficiency of active filtration in terms of reducing dynamic losses in the valves while ensuring high-quality voltages at common network connectivity points and currents consumed from the network. To achieve the goal, it is proposed to jointly use a dual-converter active power filter operating in a mode with different conversion frequencies and rated converter capacities, and an interface LCL-filter. Synthesis of converter control is performed. As a control method, the sliding mode control has been used. The efficiency of the proposed system was assessed by modeling in the MATLAB-Simulink application software package. The simulation results confirm the possibility of organizing a mode of operation in which the conversion frequencies and rated capacities of the converters of active power filters are different. In such a case, the currents and voltages consumed from the network at common network connectivity points have an almost perfect harmonic shape; and the phase shift of the network currents relative to the corresponding voltages has a negligible value. It is shown that the organization of the operating mode of converters with different conversion frequencies and rated capacities can significantly reduce the dynamic losses in the switches of active power filters.
Thermal Engineering Tests of Heating Boiler Houses when Working on Peat Fuel
Authors: Lyubov V. K. , Chukhchin D. G. , Popov A. N.
Published: October 2022

Modern development of society and the economy is generally accompanied by abandonment of non-renewable fuels in the system of existing attitudes toward environmental issues and resource conservation. The paper presents the results of complex operational tests of КВм-2.0 water boilers with automatic stoker and КВр-0.4K at heat supply facilities of the Arkhangelsk region under the typical operating conditions on coal, fuel mixtures, and also peat briquettes and sod peat. Experimental work was carried out using modern methods and advanced technical means. Within the framework of the research on the conversion of boilers to peat fuel, balance experiments were carried out; technical, economic and environmental performance indicators were obtained; the selection and analysis of focal residues were carried out, fine solid and soot particles polluted into the environment were studied in detail. The paper presents graphs of changes in gross efficiency, heat loss with exhaust gas, heat loss with incomplete combustion, and concentrations of sulfur and nitrogen oxides during the cycle between loading peat briquettes into the КВр-0.4K boiler, as well as graphs of changes in the heat balance components and gross efficiency all boiler units under investigation. The conversion of heat generating plants to peat fuel combustion makes it possible to achieve a significant reduction in emissions of solid and soot particles without upgrading ash-collecting plants. Complex experimental studies conducted of existing hot water boilers with a nominal heating capacity of 0.4 and 2.0 MW have shown the possibility, as well as the energy-environmental efficiency of burning briquetted and sod peat in the combustion chambers of these heat generating plants.
Optimization of the Operation of Groundwater Intakes Using Two-Column Wells
Authors: Ivashechkin V. V. , Medvedeva J. A.
Published: October 2022

The average number of wells at a typical water intake is 30–40; while the power of the submersible pump is usually 32–40 kW; which means that only at one well water intake the power consumption of electric pumping equipment during the hours of greatest water consumption can reach 900–1600 kW. In the structure of operating costs of well water intakes; the share of electricity costs reaches 85 %. Taking into account the requirements for reducing costs and water tariffs of housing and communal services enterprises as well as of water utilities; energy saving is an urgent task. The article considers the optimization of the operation of groundwater intakes with uneven water supply due to the use of two-column water intake wells instead of typical single-column ones. It is shown that the use of powerful pumps in single-column wells of such water intakes causes a sharp decrease in the dynamic water level in the borehole. On the one hand; this provokes the formation of colmating deposits in the filters due to their aeration; reduces the specific flow rate of the well and shortens the intervals between regenerations. On the other hand; this increases the geometric pressure of submersible pumps and energy consumption for lifting water. The theoretical foundations of determining the supply of pumps installed in single- and two-column water intake wells supplying water to the pressure filter of the water treatment plant are considered. An example of a comparative analysis of the operation of one working well with one powerful pump as part of a water intake of two single-column wells (working and reserve) to cover the entire water supply schedule and two two-column working wells containing one less powerful pump in each column is given. The energy efficiency of these pumping systems is investigated. As a result of calculations; it was found that when combining the operation of pumps of two-column wells during periods of peak; main and partial loads; the annual energy savings will amount to 33 %.
On the Expediency of Laying Cable Power Lines with a Voltage of 6–35 kV Outside Settlements Instead of Overhead Power Lines
Authors: Korotkevich M. A. , Podgaisky S. I.
Published: October 2022

. It is noted that at present, 10 and 35 kV overhead power transmission lines are being laid outside the settlements of the Republic of Belarus on reinforced concrete vibrated (10 kV) and centrifuged (35 kV) poles that are characterized by low reliability and damaging the environment (on account of alienation of land for poles, the need to make a wide clearing for laying in the forest, obstructions by poles and wires of lines to the operation of agricultural machinery, the danger of electric shock to personnel and the public). It is possible to avoid these disadvantages if, instead of overhead lines, power transmission cables with cables insulated by cross-linked polyethylene are used which are characterized by a very low failure flow parameter. Contrary to the prevailing opinion about the higher cost of cable power transmission lines compared to overhead ones of the same rated voltage, it turned out that, taking into account reliability, the cost of electricity lost in the lines for a year, damage to the environment and to the power system caused by the need to perform more expensive emergency repairs (as compared to a planned one), laying cable lines with three-core and single-core cables of a voltage of 10 and 35 kV instead of overhead cables outside the populated area is fairly justified. In this connection, the laying of three-core cables is more preferable. It should be also borne in mind that with an increase in the length of cable lines, the capacitive earth fault current increases, to compensate for which additional devices are needed to be installed in power centers, viz. arc-extinguishing reactors or resistors, accounting for the cost of which (up to 22 % of the cost of one kilometer of cable line) does not significantly affect the conclusions we have drawn regarding the effectiveness of using 6–35 kV cable power lines in an unpopulated area instead of overhead ones, however.
Kinetics of steel casting solidification during vertical continuous casting
Authors: Marukovich E. I. , Demchenko E. B.
Published: October 2022

A technique that allows calculating the values of the specific heat flux in a given range of values of the technological parameters of casting and the maximum allowable thickness of the casting crust at the outlet of the mold is proposed. The information on the temperature regime of the mold at various casting parameters can serve as a database containing the necessary information to solve the casting solidification problems. With the subsequent design of tooling and equipment, there is no need for additional experimental studies and analysis of the results obtained.
Automatic Localization of License Plate for Car in Wolfram Mathematica
Authors: Hundzina M. A. , Zhdanovich M. N.
Published: October 2022

Modern imaging devices make it possible to solve a complex of technical applied problems that require the synthesis and analysis of computer processing methods using threshold binarization, image classification, clustering, and the use of machine  learning to determine  areas of interest.  Thus,  segmentation  algorithms are widely  used for processing  medical  images. Computer technologies are used for the functioning of the intellectual environment, which allows to analyze the state of human health. The development of microelectronics makes it possible to increase the complexity of the applied image processing algorithms used to solve applied engineering problems. The issues of segmentation, pattern recognition, description and presentation of details, morphological analysis of images obtained by industrial equipment are widely discussed in the literature. For example, theories of optical signal processing taking into account interference, issues of image perception and analysis are presented in detail in domestic and foreign literature. The paper describes the  developed algorithm for localizing a car license plate, implemented in the Wolfram Mathematica system. First, the region of interest is determined, isolated from the rest of the image for its subsequent processing. An image representation is implemented using an affine transformation. Further segmentation of the characters on the license plate allows the characters to be identified. In the Mathematica system, a program code for the car license plate localization  algorithm  for its further recognition  has been  developed. The solution to the problem was obtained using the step-by-step application of the built-in and user-defined functions of the Wolfram Mathematica system. The algorithm has been tested on a representative sample of images. The average error did not exceed 10 %, which is in line with modern industrial image processing algorithms. The resulting car license plate identification algorithm can be used in digital devices to automatically determine and further image processing.
Simultaneous Cranioplasty vs. Staged Cranioplasty for Reconstruction of Bilateral Craniectomy
Authors: Park Young-Min , Shin Ja Young , Kim Young Il , Son Byung-chul , Sung Jae Hoon , Kim Young-Joo , Yang Seung Ho
Published: October 2022

Objective: Cranioplasty (CP) following decompressive craniectomy (DC) is of low complexity surgically. However, even this “simple” procedure may have a high complication rate, especially for the reconstruction of bilateral craniectomy compared to the reconstruction of unilateral craniectomy. This study aimed to assess and compare the rate of complications between simultaneous and staged CP for the reconstruction of bilateral craniectomy. Methods: All patients who underwent CP at our institution following DC for stroke or traumatic brain injury between 2008 and 2017 were reviewed. A total of 139 patients were identified, of whom 17 underwent bilateral CP. Simultaneous and staged CP was performed in 6 and 11 patients, respectively. The median time from craniectomy until CP was 94 days (range, 25-220 days). In patients with staged CP, the interval between the first CP and the second CP was 15 days (range, 6-43 days). The overall rate of complications, such as postoperative bleeding, seizures, postoperative infection, and hydrocephalus, was 16%. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in outcome variables between simultaneous CP and staged CP for the reconstruction of bilateral craniectomy, except for estimated blood loss. The estimated blood loss was lower in patients who underwent staged CP than in those who underwent simultaneous CP. The length of hospital stay was naturally longer when staged CP was performed.Conclusion: No significant differences were found in outcome variables between simultaneous and staged CP for the reconstruction of bilateral craniectomy, except for estimated blood loss and the length of hospital stay. Therefore, simultaneous CP might be more beneficial for economic reasons than staged CP.
Scale Remediation in the Marcellus Shale: Calcium Carbonate and Iron Sulfide
Authors: Perkins Laura , Tyree Ryan , Ondash Michael , Kreutzman Lauren
Published: October 2022

This paper outlines solutions for problems encountered due to scale deposits in Marcellus Shale wells, including approaches taken to remediate scale buildup. As wells in the Marcellus Shale produce over time, scale deposits in tubing form and have proven to be difficult to treat. These scale restrictions can cause well performance issues which limit options for artificial lift. Through sampling and lab analysis, the primary types of scale found are calcium carbonate and iron sulfide. After several years of evaluation, plunger lift equipment was unable to be installed in 25-30% of prospective wells due to scale buildup greater than tubing drift or 1.90″ in 2.375″ J-55 tubing.

Calcium carbonate and iron sulfide scale tend to become very hard when they deposit on tubing walls and, as a result, they do not broach or scrape away easily. Throughout this remediation process, several types of broaches were trialed with minimal success. The most effective method for scale remediation was found to be hydrochloric acid (HCl), however, HCl introduces safety and operational concerns. From an operational perspective, the hydrostatic pressure exerted by a column of acid in the tubing can be difficult for an older well to unload. Volume and pressure calculations help prevent reservoir damage by not killing the well and corrosion inhibitors added to hydrochloric acid reduce risk of tubular degradation. The reaction between calcium carbonate and iron sulfide with HCl can produce an elevated amount of CO2 and H2S, respectively which are not present in normal operations. Additional safety measures taken in these operationally induced sour conditions are detailed in this paper.

Through engineering efforts, along with computational fluid dynamics and field trials, several iterations of acid plungers designed specifically for scale remediation have been developed and successfully implemented. The role of the acid plunger is to provide temporary liquid holdup of the acid while simultaneously gauging the tubing walls as the acid column leaks by. The liquid holdup from the acid plunger provides sufficient contact time between the acid and scale buildup, especially in the vertical section of the well. The development of this process has resulted in the successful remediation of 62 wells to date. This includes using variations of this technique to free downhole tools stuck in scale. Additionally, there has not been reoccurring scaling deposits detected that would impede plunger lift operations.

Further research for this project included trialing a corrosion-resistant stainless-steel slickline containing large amounts of nickel. This line, in conjunction with acid, provides additional versatility and more efficient means of scale removal. Future methods of scale remediation involve utilizing synthetic "green" acids and large volume lateral acid batches
Cement Sheath Fatigue Failure Prediction by Support Vector Machine Based Model
Authors: Zheng Danzhu , Ozbayoglu Evren M , Miska Stefan Z , Liu Yaxin
Published: October 2022

Zonal isolation is significant for safety operation of the well. Failure to keep wellbore integrity can lead to sustained annulus pressure (SAP), and gas migration (GM), which may cause long non-productive time. Losing zonal isolation can cause severe environmental issue, which is irreversible and detrimental. However, cement sheath is exposed to temperature and pressure changes from the beginning of the drilling process to the whole life of the well. These cyclic changes can lead to fatigue failure of the cement. The objective of this study is to investigate the fatigue failure that caused by cyclic changing of temperature and pressure during life of the well. The scope of the study is based on the laboratory fatigue failure cases in previous literatures. Instead of using mechanical failure models, support vector machine (SVM) model is used to predict the fatigue failure of the cement sheath.

The data is gathered from six papers of One-Petro, which includes 325 laboratory cement fatigue failure cases. The model has fourteen inputs. Seven cement related factors were selected, which include cement type, additive material, Uniaxial Confining Strength (UCS), curing temperature, curing pressure, curing age, and Young's modulus. Seven experimental related factors, which include highest inner pressure, loading increment rate, frequency of loading, experimental temperature, confining pressure, existence of outer confining part, and cycles to reach failure. The SVM model is implemented by Python. We investigated 240 combinations of input groups and selected the best performance SVM model. The classification result is zero for no fatigue failure, and one for failure.

The accuracy for the SVM model is 72.7%, which shows that SVM can be an acceptable model for cement fatigue prediction. The SVM model we proposed is more applicable for real implementation. Because we used real wellbore geometry data (thick wall geometry). Although the data were based on laboratory result, the SVM model provides a helpful method in predicting cement-sheath-failure.

This study provides a data based method to predict cement fatigue failure under cyclic changing pressure and temperature. The result will be instructive for the cement design and wellbore operation optimization.
A Non-Conventional Well Technology Approach to Improve Hydrocarbon Recovery from a Mature Field: Brown Field Case Study
Authors: Elwegaa Khalid , Kolawole Oladoyin , Ahmed Saleh , Tomomewo Olusegun Stanley
Published: October 2022

Hydrocarbon recovery from conventional reservoirs is currently at a declining rate, thus, the petroleum industry needs to find ways to economically produce hydrocarbon from mature and marginal oilfields in conventional reservoirs. Non-conventional well technology can enable the oil industry to do so. This study investigated how a novel non-conventional well technology coupled with a geomechanical approach can potentially improve hydrocarbon recovery from mature fields. Here, we utilized data from Brown field XX located in North Africa, and it is composed of distinct geological formations. One of the formations, "Upper Gir," is an ideal candidate for the application of the non-conventional well technology. We used a reservoir simulator (SURE) to create a dynamic model by incorporating geomechanical tools from a static model previously built using Petrel software. SURE was used to model five simulation scenarios, with each scenario featuring a different well type. The scenarios simulated are the base case, do-nothing, vertical wells, horizontal wells, and multi-lateral wells. The model developed in this study forecasted 25 years of oil production for each simulation scenario and analyzed the results. The results of our numerical simulation study revealed that for 25 years, the multilateral wells produced +0.9% and +0.5% more hydrocarbon than the conventional wells and the horizontal wells, respectively. We also observed a reduction in the average water-cut from 25% to 20% (achieved in the conventional-well scenario) and from 23% to 20% (achieved in the horizontal-well scenario). Our proposed non-conventional well technology has shown promising potentials to improve hydrocarbon recovery, stabilize reservoir pressure, economic returns, and eliminate the risk of water conning in mature fields.
Better Perforations Help Solve the Gummy Bears Problem
Authors: Albert Larry , McQueen Gavin , Weida Dana , Shaw Clint
Published: October 2022

In wells with relatively high levels of iron, the use of polyacrylamide friction reducers (FR) used for hydraulic fracturing can result in poor performance due to negative chemical interactions. Hazra, et.al. (URTeC 2487 July 2020) documented a problem with the chemical reaction of FR and iron (ferrous and ferric) during hydraulic fracturing. This chemical reaction can create an accumulation of a semi-solid mass referred to as "gummy bears" due to their rubbery texture (figure 1). These gummy bears can form in surface and subsurface equipment and inhibit well production. In addition to the formation of gummy bears, the performance of FR is significantly impaired when reacting with iron (figure 2).

Pyrite (FeS2) is a common mineral found in source rock. Ferrous iron (Fe2+) can be released by oxidative dissolution of pyrite minerals. In reservoirs with high concentrations of pyrite, iron can be released by dissolving reservoir rock during acid spearheading. Acid spearheading is a common industry practice during hydraulic fracturing operations. The process involves pumping a small quantity of acid pre-frac to dissolve rock material around the wellbore, cleaning up perforations, and reducing near wellbore entry friction. The focus of the acid spearhead is to lower breakdown pressures and improve injectivity during hydraulic fracturing. The problem that Hazra (2020) described was on a Woodford Shale project in Oklahoma. The Woodford is known to contain significant quantities of pyrite (observed at around 2%). One solution proposed was to eliminate the use of acid during the hydraulic fracturing operation. The potential downside was higher near wellbore frictions that would need to be addressed by higher hydraulic horsepower (HHP) and FR volumes.

Figure 1 Effect of Fe2+ and Fe3+ on friction reduction properties of polyacrylamide friction reducer Figure courtesy of Downhole Chemical Solutions Figure 2 Gummy Bears Photo courtesy of Downhole Chemical Solutions

The process of explosive perforating can create high near wellbore friction due to the perforation tunnel crushing that occurs during the perforation process. The acid spearhead is pumped to clean up this crushed zone and improve perforation tunnel performance. A new system of perforating was described by Albert (SPE 199274-MS 2019) that incorporated propellant and explosives perforating to eliminate the perforation tunnel crushed zone and reduce near wellbore friction. This paper will describe a Barnett Shale project that utilized this new composite perforating method to eliminate the use of acid.
Application of Iced Normal Saline Combined with Cocktail Perfusion in Total Knee Arthroplasty: randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sui Laijian , Wang Xiufeng , Gai Pengzhou , Wang Jinwei , Qi Xiaojun , Wang Jing , Jiang Aihua , Wang Guangda
Published: October 2022

Objective:
The present study was designed to investigate the safety and effectiveness of iced normal saline combined with cocktail perfusion during total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This was a random, double-blind, parallel-group study conducted in China.
Methods:
Seventy patients undergoing unilateral total knee replacements were assessed in the present study. Among them, sixty patients with confirmed primary knee osteoarthritis in stage IV were recruited and divided into three groups randomly, three different intro-operative articular cavity perfusion treatments were given according to the randomized and controlled rule. One way ANOVA analysis on visual analogue scale (VAS) score, functional recovery, drainage, and edema of the affected limb were performed to assess the efficiency of the treatment in the following three days after the operation. The participants, care givers, and those assessing the outcomes were blinded to group assignment.
Results:
Postoperative drainage in group A (n = 20) and B (n = 20) reduced significantly (P < 0.05). The IHC scores of the surgical limbs were markedly lower comparing with the control group (n = 20) (P < 0.05). No differential postoperative edema was observed and the patient acquired better rehabilitation in group A and B than control group. Compared with group A, no differential postoperative drainage, edema or other side effects were seen in group B (P > 0.05). The VAS score of group B was significantly lower than in group A(P < 0.05). Postoperative recovery of the surgical limb function in group B was better than in group A (P < 0.05).
Conclusions:
Intra-operation articular cavity perfusion therapy with iced normal saline combined with cocktail perfusion therapy can greatly reduce the early inflammation, contributing to the better rehabilitation of TKA.
Classification of generalized singular points for piecewise smooth systems with application for the ‎Wien bridge oscillator
Authors: Zarei Zohreh , Amaleh Majid Karimi
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we have tried to classify different states of ‎flow‎ behavior for piecewise smooth systems near generalized equilibrium points. Based on the definition of generalized equilibrium points, seven categories are introduced for these points and then in each category, states that can occur are introduced. Then, a kind of bifurcation due to changing the perturbation parameter has been investigated for them‏. ‎Finally, ‎Wien bridge oscillator will be used as an application to the content of this article.‎
Rhizosphere microorganisms and soil physicochemical properties of restored wetland plant communities at cutting slash of Populus deltoides in Dongting Lake
Authors: Tan Sijia , Jiang Lijuan , Liu Jingyi , Zeng Zhangquan , Xiao Yaqin , Wu Xiaoli , Niu Yandong
Published: October 2022

Carex spp. and Artemisia selengensis communities are typical renewal wetland plant communities at cutting slash of Populus deltoides. However, how rhizosphere microorganisms and soil factors interact during natural restoration in plant communities is unknown. Plots containing Carex spp. and Artemisia selengensis in the slash area were investigated, and the P. deltoides plantation area at a lake shore was sampled as a control. The results revealed that the richness and diversity indices of the fungal community in the Carex spp. community were higher than those in the A. selengensis and P. deltoides undergrowth communities. Ascomycota was the dominant phylum in the soil of Carex spp. community whereas Basidiomycota was the dominant phylum in the A. selengensis community. The richness and diversity indices of the rhizosphere bacterial community in the control were higher than those in communities of Carex spp. and A. Selengensis. Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria were the dominant phyla of the rhizosphere bacterial community in the control plot. Soil water content (WC), proportion of clay (CY), and nutrient content, as well as catalase activity (CAT) in the soil of Carex spp. community were the highest, whereas those in the control were the lowest. Conversely, the bulk density (BK) and proportion of gravel in the control plot were the highest. RDA found that the CY, organic matter (OM), ammonium nitrogen (AN) and nitrate nitrogen (NN) content in the soil were the key factors affecting the structure and composition of the rhizosphere microbial community.
Atmospheric Mass Density Model PVA: An atmospheric density model derived from the Position, Velocity and Acceleration of a spacecraft
Authors: de Freitas Wantuir Aparecido , Fenili André
Published: October 2022

Neutral densities and winds are critical parameters for understanding the physics and dynamics of the mesosphere, the thermosphere and the ionosphere systems. The continuous measurements available for these parameters are largely obtained from the ground (geographically fixed locations) and usually with limited altitude coverage. As the altitude rises in relation to sea level, the atmospheric density decreases exponentially. The rate of variation of this parameter depends on the latitude, longitude and season of the year, as well as on the solar and magnetic activity. Obtaining information on atmospheric density at determined altitude levels enhances the understanding of mesosphere, thermosphere and ionosphere coupling systems. In order to estimate the atmosphere density in regions of interest, the analysis of the drag effect of the atmosphere on a spacecraft is investigated. With the aim of understanding the dissipative effect of the drag forces, a scenery is created. When the spacecraft is in operation the position, velocity and acceleration are well determined. So, it can be traced and its location determined in any interval of time. Based on information about the spacecraft states, one can infer about the behavior of the atmospheric density. The proposal of this paper is to develop a methodology using a priori knowledge of the spacecraft states in order to provide a wider horizontal sample of the atmospheric densities.
Response of thermal conductivity of loess after high temperature in northern Shaanxi burning rock area, China
Authors: Wang Shaofei , Sun Qiang , Li Delu , Wang Nianqin
Published: October 2022

The thermal conductivity of loess plays an important role in ecological restoration design and the calculation of roadbed and slope stability. This study uses 60 loess samples from Shaanxi Province of China as raw material. The loess samples were heated to high temperature in an unclosed muffle furnace and then cooled to room temperature. Subsequently, the heat conduction coefficient (λ), specific heat capacity (c) and thermal diffusion coefficient (α) of the sample were measured. Between 23–900 °C, with temperature increasing, λ decreased from 0.90 to 0.46 W/m·K, c decreased from 1.60 to 1.23 J/kg·K, α decreased from 0.59 to 0.38 m2/s. The test results show that, after being exposed to high temperature, the thermal conductivity of loess tends to weaken. This has a very important relationship with the pore characteristics of loess.
Polyacrylamide Hydrogels With Amber for Plants Micropropagation
Authors: Kernosenko Lyudmyla , Samchenko Kateryna , Goncharuk Olena , Pasmurtseva Natalya , Poltoratska Tetiana , Siryk Olena , Dziuba Oksana , Mironov Oleg , Szewczuk-Karpisz Katarzyna
Published: October 2022

The in vitro cultivation and reproduction of plants is one of the most modern and promising methods of cultivating valuable plants using artificial nutrient media. In this work, a new solid nutrient media for plant micropropagation based on highly dispersed polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAAG) with amber powder was synthesized and investigated. PAAG was synthesized by homophase radical polymerization with grounded amber addition. FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and rheological studies were used to characterize structural properties of the materials. The synthesized hydrogel showed physicochemical and rheological parameters similar to the standard agar media. The estimation of acute toxicity of PAAG-amber was performed based on the influence of washing waters on the viability of the selected plant seeds (pea and chickpea) and animal (Daphnia magna). It proved its biosafety after four washes. The impact on plant rooting was studied using multiplication of Cannabis sativa on synthesized PAAG-amber saturated with Murashige-Skoog (MS) medium and compared with agar gel with MS. Developed substrate stimulated the rooting of the plants up to more than 98% in comparison to standard agar medium (95%). Also, PAAG-amber nutrient medium markedly enhanced metric indicators of seedling: root length increased by 28%, stem length – by 26.7%, root weight – by 167%, stem weight – by 67%, root and stem length – by 27%, root and stem weight – by 50%. This means that the developed hydrogel significantly accelerates reproduction and allows obtaining a larger amount of plant material within a shorter period than the standard agar medium.
Multi-Variate and Multi-dimensional CFAR Detection of Breast Cancer
Authors: Albaaj Azhar , Norouzi Yaser , Moradi Gholamreza
Published: October 2022

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in females. In many cases, the mortality rate can be drastically lowered if the disease is detected early. Due to its safety and lack of risk to the patient, microwave breast imaging is considered a potential replacement for mammography. This paper presents a breast cancer detection approach based on the Multi-Variate and Multi-Dimensional Constant False Alarm Rate (MVMD-CFAR) method. This method has several advantages over mammography using x-rays, including increased patient comfort and lower costs. On an open-source experimental database derived from the University of Manitoba Microwave Mammography Dataset UM-BMID, the performance of the (2D-CFAR) method is evaluated by examining the available data set for breast microwave sensing. We segregate infected and healthy samples and assessed the probability density function PDF for pictures of normal and malignant tissue. The third dimension of the algorithm is the image's color data, which comprises three variables (three colors). Initial testing show that the MVMD-CFAR detector is highly effective, with a detection probability of 97.4% and a false alarm probability of 10%. However, a few challenges must be overcome before this imaging technique can reach its full potential and be implemented in clinical settings.
Formation and Properties of Magnetic Biochar
Authors: Victor Nwosu Obinnaya Chikezie
Published: October 2022

Magnetic biochar made from agricultural biomass waste such as SRC willow, which is a densely planted, high-yielding energy crop and one of the leading sources of renewable energy production, combined with iron (II) chloride and iron (III) chloride, is a multi-functional material for land remediation and agricultural applications. Two magnetic biochar's (1.0 M iron solution magnetic biochar and 0.1 M iron solution magnetic biochar) were prepared by the chemical mixture and co-precipitation of iron (II) chloride tetrahydrate and iron (III) chloride on SRC willow with a particle size of less than 2 mm (about 0.08 in). The mixture of SRC willow with iron (II) chloride tetrahydrate and iron (III) chloride was then dried in the oven and pyrolyzed at 400 degrees Celsius. Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction research on the 1.0 M iron solution magnetic biochar and the 0.1 M iron solution magnetic biochar reveal a greater concentration of iron compounds in the 1.0 M iron solution magnetic biochar. Ultraviolet infrared spectrometry was performed on iron (II) chloride tetrahydrate, iron (III) chloride, and copper (II) sulphate pentahydrate. Atomic absorption spectroscopy and ultra-violet spectrometry were performed on copper (II) sulphate pentahydrate and deionized water mixed with 1.0 M iron solution magnetic biochar, 0.1 M iron solution magnetic biochar, and activated for atomic absorption spectroscopy, 0.1 M iron solution magnetic biochar has a greater adsorption capacity than 1.0 M iron solution magnetic biochar for copper (II) sulphate pentahydrate solution. For ultra-violet infrared spectroscopy, the adsorption capacity of magnetic biochar in a 1.0 M iron solution is greater than that of magnetic biochar in a 0.1 M iron solution. Based on these results, both the 1.0 M iron solution magnetic biochar and the 0.1 M iron solution magnetic biochar are good options for removing metal pollutants like copper and restoring land.
Investing the effect of 2100 MHz frequency electromagnetic field on the male rat reproductive system
Authors: Ghasemiannejadjahromi Fariba , Raji Ahmadreza , Maleki Mohsen , Mirshokraei Pezhman , Kafaeerazavi morteza
Published: October 2022

Background: This research aimed to appraise the 2100 MHz frequency of the new generation of mobile phones on the male rat reproductive system. The genital organ is one of the important systems for sustaining reproduction and generation. The consequences of mobile phone radiation exposure have been a growing general health worry in recent years.
Study design: 35 Wister albino male rats were randomly divided into five groups for this study. The groups were exposed to a 2100 MHz frequency electromagnetic field for 0, 15, 60,120, 180 min/day, 70 consecutive days. At the end of the experiment, serum testosterone levels were measured, and each group was evaluated for epididymal sperm parameters, including mobility, morphology, and viability. Then, immunohistochemistry staining was performed by Cleaved-Caspase 3 antibody to show apoptosis in the testicular tissue.
Results: Our results revealed that serum testosterone levels were significantly reduced in experimental groups (60 and 120 min). In addition, sperm motility was significantly reduced in experimental groups (60, 120, and 180 min), and a significant decline of sperm viability and apoptosis (P=0.001) was observed in all groups.
Conclusion: This study found a significant increase in the number of dead sperm and apoptosis and a significant reduction in motility, which could impair the spermatogenesis process, reduce sexual characteristics, and eventually lower the rate of fertility.
Scale Inhibitor Qualification: Evaluation for Treatment in Brazilian Pre-salt fields
Authors: Borges Eloisa Borges e , Lessa Juliana Vieira
Published: October 2022

Inorganic scale deposition is one of the main challenges related to the flow assurance in the Oil & Gas Industry. The pre-salt oilfields has been becoming very important, especially for the Brazilian market. The operational conditions in these types of scenarios are extremely favorable for precipitation of salts. The main factors for this include high salinity, high temperature and considerable changes on the pH of the produced fluid. For this work, it was possible to predict the scale indexes of some scenarios from Brazilian pre-salt fields throughout software simulations and then, a development of a suitable scale inhibitor. The chemistry showed great performance in avoiding scale precipitation for a long period of test as well as compatibility with high calcium brines. The analyzes carried out included projections on the Scale Soft Pitzer software to evaluate the thermodynamic conditions of the system, compatibility tests with brine, and tests on the DSL (“Dynamic Scale Loop”) equipment, in order to verify the performance of inhibitors under dynamic conditions. The MIC, “minimum inhibition concentration”, found for the PAPEMP based chemical evaluated, was a low one, resulting in a very economical solution for applications in Pre-Salt fields.
Control of a Hippocampal Recurrent Excitatory Circuit by Cannabinoid Receptor-interacting Protein Gap43
Authors: Maroto Irene , Costas-Insua Carlos , Berthoux Coralie , Moreno Estefania , Ruiz-Calvo Andrea , Montero-Fernández Carlos , Macías-Camero Andrea , Martín Ricardo , García-Font Nuria , Sánchez-Prieto José , Marsicano Giovanni , Bellocchio Luigi , Canela Enric , Casado Vicent , Galve-Roperh Ismael , de Sevilla David Fernandez , Rodríguez-Crespo Ignacio , Castillo Pablo , Guzmán Manuel
Published: October 2022

The type-1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) is widely expressed in both excitatory and inhibitory nerve terminals, and its activation, by suppressing neurotransmitter release, modulates neural circuits and brain function. While the interaction of CB1R with various intracellular proteins is thought to alter receptor signaling, the identity and role of these proteins are poorly understood. Using a high-throughput proteomic analysis complemented with an array of in vitro and in vivo approaches in the mouse brain, we report that the C-terminal, intracellular domain of CB1R interacts specifically with growth-associated protein of 43 kDa (GAP43). The CB1R-GAP43 interaction occurs selectively at mossy cell axon boutons, which establish excitatory synapses with dentate granule cells in the hippocampus. This interaction impairs CB1R-mediated suppression of mossy cell to granule cell transmission, thereby inhibiting cannabinoid-mediated anti-convulsant activity in mice. Thus, GAP43 acts as a synapse type-specific regulatory partner of CB1R that hampers CB1R-mediated effects on hippocampal circuit function.
Number of vaginal lactobacilli in postmenopausal women with vaginal atrophy before and after treatment with erbium YAG laser, a randomized sham-controlled trial
Authors: Panyawongudom Nuttanun , Panyakhamlerd Krasean , Suwan Ammarin
Published: October 2022

Primary objective: To evaluate the effect of erbium YAG laser on the number of vaginal lactobacilli in postmenopausal women.
Secondary objectives: To evaluate the effects of erbium YAG laser on vaginal atrophy symptoms and vaginal pH in postmenopausal women.
Materials and Methods: A total of 44 postmenopausal women meeting inclusion criteria were randomized in laser group (n=22) and sham group (n=22). Vaginal lactobacilli grading, vaginal pH, vaginal atrophy score and vaginal atrophy symptoms (dryness, irritation, soreness, dyspareunia) wereassessed before and after treatment with erbium YAG laser for 2 consecutive times, 4 weeks interval; the results were compared with the effects of sham procedure. Any adverse events after the treatment were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS program and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: 44women were included and 5were lost to follow-up. Compared with sham procedure, there was an improvement of vaginal lactobacilli grading in laser group (5/20 in laser group and 1/19 in sham group). However, the improvement did not reach statistically significant (adjusted OR = 5.32, 95%CI = 0.5-56.21). Vaginal atrophy symptoms measured by VAS and vaginal pH were improved in both groups without statistically significant difference between groups. Vaginal “dryness” VAS and vaginal atrophy score after treatment were significantly lowered in laser group compared to sham group.
Conclusions: This study showed an improvement in vaginal lactobacilli grading after vaginal laser treatment. However, the difference of vaginal lactobacilli grading after treatment in both groups did not reach statistically significant.
Sociocultural factors associated with Detection of ASD among Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities in Australia
Authors: Hussain Aniqa , John James Rufus , Dissanayake Cheryl , Frost Grace , Girdler Sonia , Karlov Lisa , Masi Anne , Alach Tasha , Eapen Valsamma
Published: October 2022

Background
This study aimed to characterise the most common types of first concerns observed by Australian parents regarding initial autism presentation, the average age of first concern (AOC), and associated sociocultural factors including culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) background of the family.
Methods
A battery of measures relevant to demographics and information about ASD symptoms was completed for 760 participating children.
Results
The mean AOC was 18.2 months. The most common concerns were speech/language delay, variations in sociality and hyperactivity/behavioural changes. Multivariate regression analysis identified that children form a CALD background showed more autism traits and later AOC compared to non-CALD children.
Conclusion
Findings highlighted sociocultural factors that may delay autism diagnosis, and that can be used to create opportunities for earlier identification of autism in multicultural families.