bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of an 8-Week Cognitive-Motor Training Program on Proprioception and Postural Control under Single and Dual-Task in Older Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Nieto‐Guisado Ainhoa , Solana-Tramunt Mónica , Cabrejas Cristina , Morales Jose
Published: June 2024

The aim of the study was to assess the effects of an 8-week cognitive-motor training program on postural control and knee proprioception under single and dual-task conditions. Design: Randomized clinical trial. Methods: 20 healthy and physically active older adults (73.255.98 years) volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned into an experimental and a control group (EG and CG). Postural control was measured with the Romberg test, with open (RBOE), closed eyes (RBCE) and under unipodal dominant side (RUDL) conditions. Proprioception was assessed by measuring participants’ ability to reposition their dominant knee at 45º. Finally, performance on the cognitive task was measured through a subscale of the Barcelona Test called “categorical evocation in associations.” The EG and the CG completed 8-week training programme with two sessions the 30 minutes per week of postural control and proprioception exercises. The EG additionally included music in each session. Results: The results showed significant differences in both group at the postural control tests (RBOE and RBCE) and proprioceptive test post intervention. Conclusion: The 8-week training program had a positive impact on the post-intervention results for motor control and proprioception, but not on the results of the cognitive task. There were no significant differences between the groups that carried out sessions with or without music.
Central Composite Design for Formulation and Optimization of Rifampicin Loaded Polylactide-Co-Glycolide Nanoparticles
Authors: Yessentayeva Nazgul Asylbekkyzy , Galiyeva Aldana Rymzhanovna , Sadyrbekov Daniyar Tleuzhanovich , Daribay Arailym Turashkyzy , Tazhbayev Yerkeblan Muratovich
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to synthesize and optimize polylactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) nanoparticles loaded with rifampicin (RIF), with a given size and high loading rate, using the central composite design (CCD) method. CCD was used to investigate the influence of independent factors such as PLGA:RIF ratio, type of PLGA, type and concentration of surfactants, power and duration of homogenization, and type of organic solvent and its ratio to the aqueous phase on the dependent physicochemical characteristics of the nanoparticles. The optimized nanoparticles were investigated using scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Comparative evaluation of the drug release kinetics was carried out using different pH and different setups: flow cuvette (USP 4 apparatus) and Franz diffusion cuvette. In addition, the mucoadhesive properties and mycobacterial activity of PLGA-RIF NPs were studied.
Preparation and Characterization of Oxide Nanotubes on Titanium Surface for Use in Controlled Drug Release Systems
Authors: Osak Patrycja , Skwarek Sandra , Łukowiec Dariusz , Przeliorz Grzegorz , Łosiewicz Bożena
Published: June 2024

Preventing or treating infections at implantation sites where the risk of bacterial contamination is high requires the development of intelligent drug delivery systems. In this work, honeycomb structures as a potential drug carrier were obtained for the first time in a fast, one-step anodization process of titanium grade 4, lasting only 60 seconds. Fourth generation oxide nanotube layers were obtained from an aqueous solution of 0.5% AgNO3 in the voltage range from 50 to 80 at 15(1) °C. The FE-SEM method showed the length of the oxide nanotubes from 1.02(2) µm at 50 V to 230(8) nm at 80 V. The EDS analysis revealed that during anodizing, silver particles are deposited on the Ti G4 up to 2.2(5) wt.%. Electrochemical measurements by open circuit potential and anodic polarization curves methods proved the improvement of in vitro corrosion resistance as a result of Ti G4 anodizing. Assessment of the anodized Ti G4 as gentamicin sulfate carrier carried out using ATR-FTIR and UV-VIS absorption spectroscopy revealed that the obtained oxide nanotube layers can be used for application of drugs directly to the tissue around the implant. This method of application allows full use of the therapeutic dose of the antibiotic used.
Urban Renewal and Transformation of Residents' Pro-environmental Behaviors: Evidence from the Renovation of Old Residential Areas in Chengdu, China
Authors: Xingbang He , Xiaoxia Ran , Jie Mao
Published: June 2024

Based on research data from the renovation of old residential areas in Chengdu, China, this study provides empirical evidence regarding the causal relationship between urban renewal and the transformation of residents' pro-environmental behaviors. The research findings demonstrate a significant enhancement in residents' engagement in pro-environmental behaviors due to the renovation of old residential areas. Robustness tests based on replacement samples and two-stage difference-in-difference models also confirm the reliability of the conclusions. The preliminary mechanism test indicates that the mechanism of the impact of renovation of old residential areas on the transformation of residents' pro-environmental behaviors can be attributed to two main factors. Firstly, the improvement of environmental infrastructure provides residents with better conditions for participating in pro-environmental activities. Secondly, there is an elevation in residents' environmental protection awareness, prompting a more voluntary engagement in pro-environmental behavior. This study suggests that decision-makers should fully recognize that urban renewal activities nationwide are not only a process of improving urban hardware and functionality, but also a realistic and vivid "environmental education" course for the whole nation. Taking urban renewal as an opportunity to enhance citizens' awareness of environmental protection will effectively promote the transformation of pro-environmental behaviors among residents.
Effectiveness of Social Technical Assistance (STA) Program for Vulnerable Beneficiaries: Evidence from Nepal’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction
Authors: Bhusal Namita Poudel , Bhattarai Keshab , Walkley Fiona
Published: June 2024

This research assesses the effectiveness of the Socio-Technical Assistance (STA) program combined with Owner-Driven Housing Reconstruction for rural private housing recovery after Nepal’s 2015 earthquake, particularly targeting vulnerable households. Through a quantitative 304-questionnaire survey, the study reveals that 96% of households credited STA activities for accelerating reconstruction, with 95% acknowledging its significance and 78% emphasizing its necessity. Notably,89% expressed dependency on STA for reconstruction, and 85% believed it heightened disaster risk reduction awareness. In conclusion, the study establishes that STA activities significantly contributed to the successful reconstruction of vulnerable households, addressing critical aspects such as financial support, technical assistance, housing accessibility, earthquake-resilient construction, improved livelihoods, and safety enhancements.

The field study presents crucial recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of Socio-Technical Assistance (STA) activities in post-earthquake rural private housing reconstruction. Emphasizing the need for tailored, demand-driven interventions, the study cautions against relying solely on an Owner-driven Reconstruction model, challenging the one-size-fits-all strategy. The study proposes integrating tailored interventions into overarching recovery strategies, advocating for coordinated efforts to enhance Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) awareness and cultivate resilient communities in particularly vulnerable households. Aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11, which focuses on sustainable cities and communities. This research aims to enhance the literature on post-disaster humanitarian shelter and settlement by emphasizing the significance of inclusive and comprehensive approaches to recovery and reconstruction.
Action Recognition in Videos Through a Transfer Learning Based Technique
Authors: López-Lozada Elizabeth , Sossa Humberto , Rubio-Espino Elsa , Montiel-Pérez J Yaljá
Published: June 2024

In computer vision, human action recognition is a hot topic, popularized by the development of deep learning. Current models have achieved high accuracy results on public datasets. Despite this success, they require significant computational resources for training. Given that transfer learning based techniques allow reusing what other models have already learned and training models with less computational resources, in this work we propose using a transfer learning based approach for action recognition in videos. We describe a methodology for human action recognition using transfer learning techniques in a custom dataset. The proposed method consists of four stages: 1) human detection and tracking, 2) video preprocessing, 3) feature extraction (using pretrained models with ImageNet), and 4) action recognition using a two-stream model consisting of TCNs, LSTMs, and CNNs layers. The custom dataset is imbalanced with 189, 390, 490, 854, and 890 videos per class, respectively. For feature extraction, we analyzed the performance of seven pretrained models: Inception-v3, MobileNet-v2, MobileNet-v3-L, VGG-16, VGG-19, Xception, and ConvNeXt-L. We show that the best results were obtained with the last one. Finally, using pretrained models for feature extraction allowed training in a PC with a single GPU with an accuracy of 94.9%.
Consent Considerations for Generation and Sharing of Genomic Data
Authors: Warden Charles D.
Published: June 2024

It is important to consider both requirements and limitations for the generation and sharing of genomic data. For example, human genomic sequence data should typically not be deposited publicly without the appropriate "explicit consent" to do so. This includes genetic identifying data that may exist within raw reads for bulk RNA Sequencing (RNA-Seq) data and genomic data from cell lines that are available to purchase. At the same time, data sharing is important for re-analysis and reproducibility/replication in the scientific community. A review of known rules and guidelines for genomic data sharing is provided. This includes specific rules for NIH-funded data for controlled access deposit of HeLa cell line data, including bulk RNA-Seq data. The ability to create “partial” Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) public deposits with only processed data is described, with search criteria that can identify many “partial” GEO deposits for a variety of data types where reads were not made public for patient privacy concerns. However, it is the opinion of the author that this should be considered a short-term solution, and additional considerations and action should be carried out for genomic data generated in future experiments. Information about how to learn more about what is known for consent for cell line samples is also briefly provided, along with search results for genomic data from widely available cell lines that is deposited in controlled access databases. Finally, it should be made clear that this article presents some amount of opinion. Additionally, open feedback for this preprint is encouraged to further enhance knowledge and communication.
On Certain Rough Marcinkiewicz Integral Operators with Grafakos-Stefanov Kernels on Product Spaces
Authors: Al-Qassem Hussain , Ali Mohammed
Published: June 2024

In this paper, several classes of rough Marcinkiewicz integral operators along surfaces of revolution on product spaces are investigated. We prove the Lp boundedness of these operators when their kernels functions belong to a class of functions related to a class of functions introduced by Grafakos-Stefanov. The results in this paper extend and improve several known results on Marcinkiewicz integrals.
Cell Culture and Animal Models of Nanoparticle Toxicity on the Airway Barrier
Authors: Lee Claire E , Rezaee Fariba
Published: June 2024

The production of nanoparticles has recently surged due to their varied applications in biomedical, pharmaceutical, textile, and electronic sectors. However, this rapid increase in nanoparticle manufacturing has raised concerns about environmental pollution, particularly due to their potential adverse effects on human health. Among the various concerns, inhalation exposure to nanoparticles poses significant risks, especially affecting the respiratory system. Airway epithelial cells play a crucial role as the primary defense against inhaled particulate matter and pathogens. Studies have shown that nanoparticles can disrupt the airway epithelial barrier, triggering inflammatory responses, generating reactive oxygen species, and compromising cell viability. However, our understanding of how different types of nanoparticles specifically impact the airway epithelial barrier remains limited. To investigate nanoparticle-induced cellular responses and barrier dysfunction, both in vitro cell culture models and in vivo murine models are commonly utilized. In this review, we discuss the methodologies frequently employed to assess nanoparticle toxicity and barrier disruption. Furthermore, we analyze and compare the distinct effects of various nanoparticle types on the airway epithelial barrier. By elucidating the diverse responses elicited by different nanoparticles, we aim to provide insights that can guide future research endeavors in assessing and mitigating the potential risks associated with nanoparticle exposure.
Antibacterial Activity of Brass against Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria Following Repeated Exposure to Hydrogen Peroxide/Peracetic Acid and Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
Authors: Dauvergne Emilie , Lacquemant Corinne , Mullié Catherine
Published: June 2024

Copper-containing materials are attracting attention as self-desinfecting surfaces, suitable for helping healthcare settings in reducing healthcare associated infections. However, the impact of repeated exposure to disinfectants frequently used in biocleaning protocols on their antibacterial activity remains insufficiently characterized. This study aimed at evaluating the antibacterial effi-ciency of copper (positive control), a brass alloy (AB+®) and stainless steel (negative control) after repeated exposure to a quaternary ammonium compound and/or a mix of peracetic acid/hydrogen peroxide routinely used in healthcare settings. A panel of 6 antibiotic-resistant strains (clinical isolates) was selected for this assessment. After a short (5 min) exposure time, the copper and brass materials retained significantly better antibacterial efficiencies than stainless steel, whatever the bacterial strain or disinfectant treatment considered. Moreover, post-treatment with both disinfectant products, copper-containing materials still reached similar levels of antibacterial efficiency as those obtained before treatment. Antibiotic resistance mechanisms such as efflux pump overexpression did not impair the antibacterial efficiency of copper-containing materials, neither did the presence of one or several genes related to copper homeostasis/resistance. In light of those results, surfaces made out of copper and brass remain interesting tools in the fight against dissemination of antibiotic-resistant strains that might cause healthcare associated infections.
Valorization of Proteinaceous Animal Waste to Amino Acids Reduces Environmental Pollution While Catalyzing Plant Functions in Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Karunarathne Madara , Kandegama Wishwajith W. , Faraj Turki Kh. , Baig Mirza B. , Xiaoyu Hong , Gefei Hao
Published: June 2024

Global wastes accumulate at an accelerating rate especially food and slaughterhouse waste constituting a major proportion owing to inefficient management. The high protein concentration of fish waste and keratinaceous byproducts is hazardous, harbouring pathogens, and emitting toxins. Transforming proteinaceous waste into amino acids (AAs) reduces waste bulk and offers a smarter nutrient approach for agriculture. However, this resource remains underutilized triggering eco-system pollution, diseases spreading, and climate change. Currently, small quantities of proteinaceous waste are valorized as animal feed, fertilizer, and in medical, and biotechnological sectors, which cannot solve bulk waste accumulation further, natural AA sources in agriculture are less recognized meanwhile researchers focus on synthetic AAs. Introducing various plant-nutrient formulas enriching fish AA with keratinaceous waste hydrolysate has not been broadly discussed. With this novel approach, using proteinaceous waste resources in agriculture would solve environmental pollution while minimizing land degradation by synthetic fertilizer. In this review, we illustrate the potential and benefits of valorizing proteinaceous waste in bulk through bioconversion. More importantly, we spotlight the biocompatibility of natural AAs and propose an enrichment, to use the ultimate product as catalysts for crops. Consequently, this approach reduces hazardous waste while paving a paradigm change in agriculture.
Hybrid Isentropic Twin Stars
Authors: Carlomagno Juan Pablo , Contrera Gustavo A. , Grunfeld Ana Gabriela , Blaschke David
Published: June 2024

We present a study of hybrid neutron stars with color superconducting quark matter cores at finite temperature that results in sequences of stars with constant entropy per baryon, s/nB=const. For the quark matter equation of state, we employ a recently developed nonlocal chiral quark model while nuclear matter is described with a relativistic density functional model of the DD2 class. The phase transition is obtained by a Maxwell construction under isothermal conditions. We find that traversing the mixed phase on a trajectory at low s/nB≲2 in the phase diagram shows a heating effect while at larger s/nB the temperature drops. This behavior may be attributed to the presence of a color superconducting quark matter phase at low temperatures and the melting of the diquark condensate which restores the normal quark matter phase at higher temperatures. While the isentropic hybrid star branch at low s/nB≲2 is connected to the neutron star branch, it gets disconnected at higher entropy per baryon so that the "thermal twin" phenomenon is observed. We find that the transition from connected to disconnected hybrid star sequences may be estimated with the Seidov criterion for the difference in energy densities. The radii and masses at the onset of deconfinement exhibit a linear relationship and thus define a critical compactness of the isentropic star configuration for which the transition occurs which for large enough s/nB≳2 is accompanied by an instability. The results of this study may be of relevance for uncovering the conditions for the supernova explodability of massive blue supergiant stars by the quark deconfinement mechanism. The accretion-induced deconfinement transition with thermal twin formation may contribute to explaining the origin of eccentric orbits in some binary systems and the origin of isolated millisecond pulsars.
Examining the Influence of Renewable Energy Consumption, Technological Innovation, and Export Diversification on Economic Growth: Empirical Insights from E-7 Nations
Authors: Alhasim Mohammed , Rehman Mohd Ziaur , ANSARI SHOAIB , Ahmaed Parvez
Published: June 2024

The present research focuses on the endogenous development theory and investigates the relationship between economic growth (dependent variable) and renewable energy consumption, technological innovation, and export diversification (independent variables) in seven emerging economies known as the E-7. Previous studies have examined these factors individually but have not explored their combined impact on the E-7 economies. Therefore, this study contributes to the existing literature on the effects of renewable energy consumption, technological advancement, and export diversification on economic development. The study analyses the dynamic connection among these variables in seven selected emerging countries: Brazil, China, Indonesia, India, Mexico, Russia, and Turkey. Panel data from 1990 to 2022 is utilized, and various methodologies, including panel cointegration, the PMG-ARDL estimator, and robustness tests such as FMOLS and DOLS, are employed. Empirical inferences are drawn using the Dumitrescu-Hurlin Panel Causality (DHC) test, and the long-run relationships among the variables are validated using the Westerlund residual cointegration tests. The results from the PMG-ARDL estimator show that renewable energy consumption, technological advancement, and export diversification have a significant and positive impact on economic expansion, confirming the validity of the endogenous growth model in the E-7 countries. The control variable of the financial sector has a positive but insignificant effect on economic growth, while trade openness has a negative and significant effect. The DHC test results indicate a neutral feedback effect of renewable energy consumption on economic growth. The findings also reveal a unidirectional causal relationship between technological innovation and economic growth. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights for economic policymakers in the E-7 countries. By removing barriers to renewable energy consumption, technological innovation, and export diversification, policymakers can promote sustainable economic development.
Sustainability and Circular Economy Business Development
Authors: Rosário Albérico Travassos , Lopes Paula , Rosário Filipe Sales
Published: June 2024

Currently, there has been a tendency for companies to direct the development of their businesses following circular economy trends associated with sustainability. European Community guidelines have established deadlines for the implementation of management strategies that allow creating and maintaining an effective and resource-efficient economic system, reducing the amount of en-ergy and materials used in production. In this scenario, this study makes sense, which aims to an-alyze academic studies on these topics with the aim of understanding future trends. In this sense, the objective of this study is to understand the potential impacts on business development of the inte-gration of sustainability and the circular economy. This article uses a systematic literature review, which has the objective of gather and analyze materials from different authors, carrying out an analysis to answer a specific question. The findings indicate that CE and sustainability are con-nected and businesses should implement sustainability and CE appropriate strategies to increase their competitiveness and improve resource efficiency. These strategies may integrate innovative technologies, the use of sharing platforms, product life extension, resource recovery to minimize waste and the integration of sustainability concepts in business as well as their communication with their stakeholders to change trends and behaviors.
Distribution Characteristics and Genesis Mechanism of Ground Fissures in Three Northern Counties of the North China Plain
Authors: Xue Chao , Zang Mingdong , Zhang Zhongjian , Xu Nengxiong , Wang Feiyong , Hong Cheng , Li Guoqing , Wang Fujiang
Published: June 2024

The North China Plain is among the regions most afflicted by ground fissure disasters in China. Recent urbanization has accelerated ground fissure activity in the three counties of the northern North China Plain, posing significant threats to both the natural environment and socioeconomic sustainability. Despite the increased attention, a lack of comprehensive understanding persists due to delayed recognition and limited research. This study conducted field visits and geological surveys across 43 villages and 80 sites to elucidate the spatial distribution patterns of ground fissures in the aforementioned counties. By integrating these findings with regional geological data, we formulated a causative model to explain ground fissure formation. Our analysis reveals a concentration of ground fissures near the Niuxi and Rongxi faults, with the former exhibiting the most extensive distribution. The primary manifestations of ground fissures include linear cracks and patch-shaped collapse pits, predominantly oriented in east-west and north-south directions, indicating tensile failure with minimal vertical displacement. Various factors contribute to ground fissure development, including fault activity, ancient river channel distribution, bedrock undulations, rainfall, and ground settlement. Fault activity establishes a concealed fracture system in shallow geotechnical layers, laying the groundwork for ground fissure formation. Additionally, the distribution of ancient river channels and bedrock undulations modifies regional stress fields, further facilitating ground fissure emergence. Rainfall and differential ground settlement serve as triggering mechanisms, exposing ground fissures at the surface. This research offers novel insights into the causative mechanisms of ground fissures in the northern North China Plain, providing valuable scientific evidence for mitigating ground fissure disasters during the urbanization process in the region.
Tetramethylpyrazine Nitrone (TBN) Reduces Amyloid β Deposition in Alzheimer's Disease Models by Modulating APP Expression, BACE1 Activity, and Autophagy Pathways
Authors: Zhou Xinhua , Zhu Zeyu , Kuang Shaoming , Huang Kaipeng , Li Yueping , Wang Yuqiang , Chen Haiyun , Hoi Maggie Pui Man , Xu Benhong , Yang Xifei , Zhang Zaijun
Published: June 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an age-associated neurodegenerative disorder. A wealth of evidence indicates that the amyloid β (Aβ) aggregates result from dyshomeostasis between Aβ production and clearance, which plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of AD. Consequently, therapies targeting Aβ reduction represent a promising strategy of AD intervention. Tetramethylpyrazine nitrone (TBN) is a novel tetramethylpyrazine derivative with the potential for the treatment of AD. Previously, we demonstrated that TBN markedly improved cognitive functions and reduced Aβ, APP, BACE 1 and hyperphosphorylated tau levels in 3 × Tg-AD mice. However, the mechanism by which TBN inhibits Aβ deposition still unclear. In this study, we employed the APP/PS1 mice treated with TBN (60 mg/kg, ig, bid) for six months and N2a/APP695swe cells treated with TBN (300 μM) to explore the mechanism of TBN on the Aβ reduction. Our results indicated that TBN significantly alleviated cognitive impairment and reduced Aβ depositions in APP/PS1 mice. Further investigation of the underlying mechanisms revealed that TBN decreased the expression of APP and BACE1, activated the AMPK/mTOR/ULK1 autophagy pathway and inhibited the PI3K/AKT/mTOR/ULK1 autophagy pathway, as well as decreased the phosphorylation levels of JNK and ERK in APP/PS1 mice. Moreover, TBN was found to significantly reduce the mRNA levels of APP and BACE1, as well as those of SP1, CTCF, TGF-β, and NF-κB, transcription factors involved in regulating gene expression. Additionally, TBN was observed to decrease the level of miR-346 and increase the levels of miR-147 and miR-106a in the N2a/APP695swe cells. These findings indicate that TBN may reduce Aβ levels likely via reducing APP expression by regulating APP gene transcriptional factors and miRNAs, reducing BACE1 expression, and promoting autophagy activities.
Mechanism and Synergy Effect of the Hybrid Water Disinfection Process Using Electric Discharges Combined with Chlorination
Authors: Malyushevskaya Antonina , Koszelnik Piotr , Mitryasova Olena , Yushchishina Anna , MATS Andrii , Papciak Dorota , Zdeb Monika Magdalena
Published: June 2024

An analysis of the physical and chemical phenomena accompanying the electrical discharges was carried out, principal factors inactivating microorganisms is studied. Characteristic factors of an electric discharge in cavitation mode providing a synergistic effect when disinfecting water with a discharge and chemical reagents are identified in order of importance. As a result of the integral action of cavitation, the inactivation of bacteria is intensified both due to the emergence of chem-ically active particles and due to local shock waves, acoustic currents and ultraviolet radiation in the area of cavitating bubbles. The similarity of cavitation processes in water systems implemented by underwater electric discharges and with the ultrasound has been experimentally proved. The main advantage of electric discharge cavitation in comparison with ultrasonic one is the wide band of ultrasonic frequencies of radiation inherent in electric discharge, high intensity and power of cav-itation processes, and, accordingly, the possibility of a significant increase in the volume of the disinfected liquid. The study enable better understanding and prediction of the effects that occur during a high-voltage underwater electrical discharge and have a bactericidal effect.
New Cardiovascular Event One Year Later in Patient with Good Control of Cardiovascular Risk Factor
Authors: Giamundo Domenico Mario , Barillà Francesco , Barone Lucy , Di Landro Alessio , Sergi Domenico , Marchei Massimo
Published: June 2024

Secondary prevention after SCA (acute coronary syndrome) is of paramount importance to reduce the incidence of MACE and improve prognosis in follow-up. The control of avoidable risk factors, lifestyle modifications, but especially careful control of cholesterolemia (with a target of LDL-C
A Conjecture on the Possible Another Supermassive Black Hole in the Bar of Our Milky Way
Authors: Zhu Yin
Published: June 2024

In the bar of our Milky Way, there should be another supermassive black holes B which is with the mass almost 10-2--10-5 the Sgr A* and with a distance10,000--14,500 lightyears from Sgr A*. The bar is formed by the stellar orbiting around both of the black holes. In the Hill radius of B, a lots of stars orbit around B while another lots of stars orbit Sgr A*. It determines that there is a “x-shaped structure” in the bar and the shape of bar appears a peanut. As the orbits of the stars is out of the Hill radius of B, they are repulsed to a distant place by B to form the arms.
Screening the Performance of a Reverse Osmosis Pilot-Scale Process that Treats a Blended Feedwater Containing Nanofiltration Concentrate and Brackish Groundwater
Authors: Hagglund Christopher R. , Duranceau Steven J.
Published: June 2024

A two-stage pilot plant study has been completed that evaluated the performance of a reverse osmosis (RO) membrane process for the treatment of a feedwater that consisted of a blend of nanofiltration (NF) concentrate and brackish groundwater. Membrane performance was assessed by monitoring the process operation, collecting water quality data, and documenting the blended feedwater’s impact on fouling due to a combination of, or solely caused by, plugging, scaling, microbiological, or organic means. Fluorescence and biological activity reaction tests were used to identify the types of organics and microorganisms present in the blended feedwater. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were used to analyze suspended matter that collected on the surfaces of cartridge filters used in the pilot’s pretreatment system. SEM and EDS were also used to evaluate solids collected on the surfaces of 0.45-µm silver filter pads after filtering known volumes of NF concentrate and RO feedwater blends. Water quality analyses confirmed that the blended feedwater contained little to no dissolved oxygen, and the blended feedwater was absent of a significant amount of particulate matter as defined by silt density index and turbidity measurements. However, water quality results suggested that the presence of sulfate, sulfide, iron, anaerobic bacteria, and humic acid organics likely contributed to the formation of pyrite observed on some of the membrane surfaces autopsied at the conclusion of pilot operations. It was determined that first-stage membrane productivity was impacted by the location of cartridge filter pretreatment; however, second-stage productivity was maintained with no observed flux decline during the entire pilot operation’s timeline. Study results indicated that the operation of an RO process treating a blend of NF concentrate and brackish groundwater could maintain a sustainable and productive operation that provided a practical zero-discharge process operation while the dilution of RO feedwater salinity would lower overall production costs.
Dietary Sodium and Potassium Intakes and Prevalent Kidney Stone: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2018
Authors: Tang Jie , Sammartino Cara , Chonchol Michel
Published: June 2024

The associations between dietary sodium intake (DSI), dietary potassium intake (DPI), and kidney stone disease (KSD) are not clear. We examined The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011-2018 to determine the independent associations between daily DSI, DPI, DSI/DPI and prevalent KSD. 19,405 participants were included for analysis, of which 1,895 had KSD. Higher DSI was not associated with increased odds of KSD in regression analysis when DSI was modeled as a continuous variable (OR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.99-1.00, p=0.2), or when comparing highest quartile of DSI to lowest quartile (OR=0.84, 95% CI: 0.68–1.04, p=0.1). Unlike DSI, higher DPI associated strongly with reduced odds of KSD in regression analysis when DPI was modeled as a continuous variable (OR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.99-0.99, p=0.02), or when comparing highest quartile of DPI to lowest quartile (OR =0.75, 95% CI: 0.60–0.94, p=0.01). Lastly, higher DSI/DPI also associated strongly with increased odds of KSD in regression analysis when DSI/DPI was modeled as a continuous variable (OR=1.1, 95% CI: 1.01-1.20, p=0.03), or when comparing highest quartile of DPI to lowest quartile (OR =1.30, 95% CI: 1.10–1.70, p=0.008). All the observed relationships were independent of total calorie intake. In conclusion, both lower DPI and higher DSI/DPI associate with an increased risk of KSD. Future prospective studies are needed to clarify these causal relationships.
Comparison of MLR, MNLR, and ANN Models for Estimation of Young’s Modulus (E50) and Poisson’s Ratio (υ) of Rock Materials by Using Non-destructive Measurement Methods
Authors: Deniz Orcun Tugay , Deniz Vedat
Published: June 2024

In this study, the determination of static E50 and υ parameters of rock materials was investigated using P-S wave velocities and Shore hardness (SH), non-destructive measurement methods. We used multiple linear regression (MLR), multiple non-linear regression (MNLR) and artificial neural network (ANN) models to estimate and determine these parameters. When the models defined by MLR, MNLR, and ANN were compared to the R2 values, ANN models that estimate E50 and υ parameters of rock materials using non-destructive methods (Vp, Vs, Vp/Vs, d, and SH) could be determined with higher accuracy than MLR and MNLR models. The study’s originality is based on the fact that ores such as galena, chromite, and barite have been studied for the first time on rock mechanics, and in this respect, it offers an innovative perspective. In addition, the use of all non-destructive measurement methods, Vp, Vs, and Shore hardness tests, also increases the originality of the study.
Machine Learning on Ultrasound Texture Analysis Data for Characterizing of Salivary Glandular Tumors: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Liao Li-Jen , Cheng Ping-Chia , Chan Feng-Tsan
Published: June 2024

Background: Objective quantitative texture characteristics may be helpful in salivary glandular tumor differential diagnosis. This study uses machine learning (ML) to explore and validate the performance of ultrasound (US) texture features in diagnosing salivary glandular tumors. Material and methods: 122 patients with salivary glandular tumors, including 71 benign and 51 malignant tumors, are enrolled. A representative brightness mode US pictures are selected for further Gray Level Co-occurrence Matrix (GLCM) texture analysis. We use t-test to test the significance and use receiver operating characteristic curve method to fund optimal cut-point for these significant features. After splitting 80% data into training set and 20% data into testing set, we use five machine learning models k-nearest Neighbors (kNN), Naïve Bayes, Logistic regression, Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and supportive vector machine (SVM) to explore and validate the performance of US GLCM texture features in diagnosing salivary glandular tumors. Results: This study includes 49 female and 73 male patients, with a mean age of 53 years old, ranging from 21 to 93. We find that six GLCM texture features (contrast, inverse difference movement, entropy, dissimilarity, inverse difference and difference entropy) are significantly different between benign from malignant tumors (p<0.05). On ML, the overall accuracy rates are 74.3% (95%CI: 59.8-88.8%), 94.3% (86.6-100%), 72% (54-89%), 84% (69.5-97.3%) and 73.5% (58.7-88.4%) for kNN, Naïve Bayes, Logistic regression, one node ANN and SVM, respectively. Conclusion: US texture analysis with ML has potential as an objective and valuable tool for assessment of salivary gland tumors.
Designing a Data Literacy-Based Speaking Skills Assessment Instrument for High School Students
Authors: Faisal Abdul Haris , Anshori Dadang S. , Sastromiharjo Andoyo , Mulyati Yeti
Published: June 2024

This study aims to develop a data literacy-based speaking skill assessment instrument for students at the high school level. Currently, speaking skills are one of the 21st century competencies that must be developed. Students of the 21st century have demands to master both written and oral communication competencies. In addition, data literacy skills are one of the new literacies that students must master as a complement to communication skills. This research uses a research and development method with the Plomp model which consists of five phases, namely the initial investigation phase, design phase, realisation phase, test, evaluation, and revision phase, and implementation phase. Data collection techniques were conducted by interview, document analysis, and questionnaire. The participants of this research involved teachers, assessment experts, linguistic experts, and speaking skill experts. The results of expert validation of the developed speaking skills assessment instrument obtained good results with a very feasible category so that the speaking skills assessment instrument product is feasible to be used to assess students' presentation skills in presenting scientific work at the high school level.
Quantitative Elimination of Seismic Pseudofaults and Fine Analysis of True Faults Underlying Igneous Rocks of No-Well Areas: A Case Study of Shuntuoguole Uplift in Tarim Basin
Authors: Jiang Ziran , Jiao Jian , Qi Qiaomu , Deng Xingyu
Published: June 2024

After multistage tectonic movement and evolution, large superimposed oil and gas basins generally developed many igneous rocks in the early rifting stages. The lithology and lithofacies of igneous rocks are complex, which is easy to lead to the distortion of the underlying migration velocity field and thus the response of seismic pseudofaults. Also, because of the obvious shielding and absorption effect of igneous rocks on seismic waves, the waveform quality of underlying strata is poor and the seismic response characteristics of faults are fuzzy. Currently, relevant studies have shown that the influence of igneous rock can be eliminated by the prestack depth migration with an accurate igneous rock velocity model. However, improving the accuracy of the velocity model needs to be corrected by well-logging data, resulting in poor applicability of the existing velocity modeling technology underlying igneous rocks without well, which is an obvious technical bottleneck. In this paper, the secondary strike-slip fault in Shuntuoguole low uplift of Tarim Basin, which has great oil and gas exploration potential but a very low degree of drilling, is selected as the research object. Aiming at difficult fault detection underlying igneous rocks caused by lack of drilling, the accuracy of fault seismic identification is improved by “interpretative fault preprocessing” and “fault sensitive attribute optimization.” In addition, through the “extreme hypothesis method” to maximize the complex migration velocity and simulate the underlying target layer distortion maximization, we realize the quantitative elimination of seismic pseudofaults. The practical application shows that this technology can determine the true and fake underlying faults quantitatively without establishing an accurate igneous rock velocity model. It is crucial not only for exploring oil and gas in the Tarim Basin’s secondary strike-slip faults but also for offering a method and technical guide for identifying faults in other basins affected by igneous rocks.
An Analysis of Drilling Projection Uncertainty and Implications for Collision Avoidance Management Systems
Authors: Willerth Marc , McGregor Andrew
Published: June 2024

During well planning, specifying the separation that must be maintained from offset wellbores is critical to ensuring safe operations. Recent efforts on API RP 78, an upcoming American Petroleum Institute recommended practice for wellbore placement, have provided guidelines for calculating safe separation distances and engineering considerations for those calculations. A major milestone was the publication of a separation rule (Sawaryn et al. 2019) standardizing a formula for separation factor (SF), which in turn defines the minimum allowable separation distance (MASD) between two wellbores and the allowable deviation from plan (ADP) for a wellbore being drilled. One element of this formula, σpa, describes the accuracy with which a future wellpath can be predicted. Prior guidance provides a suggested value for σpa (1.6 ft or 0.5 m at 1-sigma) based on heuristics. A more rigorous approach for estimating this value is presented, where the design of the drilling program can be considered.

A framework is proposed for modeling deviation from a projected path using a planned trajectory, bottomhole assembly (BHA) properties, and survey practices. The method identifies where a deviation is detected through survey measurements and estimates a planned recovery operation. Equations are provided for estimating the distance from plan at deviation detection along with the maximum expected deviation during recovery. Common drilling scenarios are analyzed for sensitivity to operational parameters such as survey course length, sensor offset, tool face control, and BHA performance. The impact of varying σpa is explored across prototypical collision avoidance cases. A discussion of the relationships between the σpa value and the common collision avoidance calculations, such as SF, MASD, and ADP, is included along with considerations for the design of a risk management policy.

Survey course length, survey sensor offset, and uncertainty in directional performance are all shown to have a significant impact on the potential maximum deviation from plan. An additional factor considered is the aggressiveness expected when performing recovery operations. An analysis of common drilling scenarios suggests the previously provided guidance of 1.6 ft at 1-sigma appears suitable for cases where the directional behavior of the BHA is well characterized and the combination of course length and survey sensor offset is kept to 150 ft or less. Longer survey course lengths, larger sensor offsets, or uncertainty in directional performance of the BHA can produce larger σpa values, in some scenarios causing a significant impact on the MASD and ADP.

Previous work has called attention to the uncertainty in drilling to a projection, but up to now, there has not been a rigorous method for estimating that quantity. With the methods outlined in this paper, well planners and drilling engineers can make more informed decisions on how to ensure safe separation practices in their own operations.
Neural mechanisms underlying different aspects of pseudostuttering versus fluent speech during spontaneous speech production.
Authors: Niephaus Alexandra , Konrad Kerstin , Guzik Janina , Pape-Neumann Julia , Reindl Vanessa
Published: June 2024

Although “artificial stuttering”, also known as pseudostuttering, represents a well-controlled technique for exploring disfluencies in spontaneous speech, little is known about the exact neural mechanisms involved in pseudostuttering. More specifically, previous research has not considered different types of pseudostuttering symptoms, such as repetitions or prolongations. To address this research gap, we performed functional near-infrared spectroscopy on N= 31 adult participants to measure their brain activity in left fronto-parieto-temporal regions during spontaneous speech under three conditions: habitual (fluent) speech, voluntary produced repetitions, and prolongations. We found greater activation during pseudostuttering than during habitual speech in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, inferior frontal gyrus, middle temporal gyrus, premotor cortex, supplementary motor area, supramarginal gyrus, and superior temporal gyrus, with no significant differences between repetitions and prolongations. These results support previous activation findings in the supplementary motor area and superior temporal gyrus obtained during simulated repetitions while reading and extend them to include activations in cortical areas related to speech motor control, sentence generation and working memory during simulated prolongations and repetitions in naturalistic spontaneous speech production. Our findings underscore the potential of employing pseudostuttering paradigms in real-world contexts, such as conversational discourse, as a valuable tool to elucidate the neural underpinnings of speech disfluency and its implications for the speaker.
Adding to the burden: The tendency to resonate with others’ stress is linked to higher PTSD symptom severity in individuals with war-related trauma
Authors: Wesarg-Menzel Christiane , Gallistl Mathilde , Niconchuk Michael , Engert Veronika
Published: June 2024

Many refugees experience multiple traumatic events, which set them at increased risk to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To refine interventions aimed at improving refugees’ mental health, a better understanding of the factors modulating vulnerability to war-related trauma is needed. In the present study, we focused on stress resonance as a potential vulnerability factor. Stress resonance reflects the empathic sharing of others’ subjective and physiological stress experience. Sixty-seven participants who came from Arabic-speaking countries and had entered Germany as refugees or migrants took part in an empathic stress test, in which they observed a native German speaker undergo a psychosocial laboratory stressor. Meanwhile, different stress markers (subjective stress, heart rate, heart rate variability, and cortisol release) were simultaneously captured in the stressed targets and passive observers. Moderation analyses did not support our hypothesis that the extent to which someone resonates with others’ stress is a vulnerability factor in the development of PTSD symptoms after trauma exposure. Rather, higher levels of subjective and autonomic stress resonance were main predictors of PTSD symptom severity when controlling for sex, age, and trauma exposure. Our findings suggest that heightened stress resonance may constitute a malleable correlate of PTSD rather than a trait modulating health risk. In the future, efforts should be made to test whether individuals with a history of war-related trauma would benefit from interventions aimed to reduce the tendency to excessively share others’ stress.