bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Devon Energy and Software Partners Enable Automatic Bottomhole Pressure Calculations
Authors: Carlsen Mathias
Published: March 2024

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More than a decade ago, Devon Energy made it a priority to enhance its digital infrastructure which has led to a step change in internal data access along with how the company securely works with its third-party vendors.

Easy access to relevant, trustworthy, and value-adding data has become the norm, not the exception, for the US oil and gas producer’s subsurface engineering teams. The upside extends beyond mere convenience, however, and translates directly into faster decision making which is one of the keys to success in the dynamic landscape of unconventional developments.

When data is seamlessly connected for daily consumption, engineers engage with it regularly, integrating it into their daily workflows. Additionally, we see that the frequency of use is directly correlated with accessibility.

The emphasis on accessibility reflects Devon’s proactive efforts to treat its data more and more as a valuable asset. By democratizing data and analysis tools, business-impacting insights are more readily available to engineers and decision-makers throughout the organization.

This case study outlines one of the most recent and tangible outcomes of this collaborative philosophy: automatic calculation of bottomhole pressure (BHP).

Solving for Bottomhole Pressures

As shown in Fig. 1, accurate and reliable flowing BHP data is a critical input for a number of important engineering applications in both conventional and unconventional settings: reservoir simulation, production diagnostics, nodal analysis, rate transient analysis, pressure transient analysis, and material balance.

The list goes on, but the overarching point is that BHP data allows engineers to make informed decisions, i.e., high-confidence estimations on future well production, reservoir management, and optimization strategies.

The rub is that acquiring accurate BHP measurements has historically been a luxury service that is too costly to scale up beyond a few science projects.

Operators that desire such critical data often turn to BHP gauges, which are positioned down in the wellbore to measure pressure at a specific depth. But given an average cost of $50,000 per installation, it is estimated that less than 5% of all horizontal wells drilled during the North American shale revolution have benefited from the use of downhole gauges.

Without a downhole gauge, operators must calculate the pressures from surface pressure. The problem here is again one of scale. Using surface pressure has traditionally required the manual gathering of the proper data sets and calculating BHP.

From there, the process is not only time consuming but considered to be error prone. Applying any of the published methods may take a reasonably experienced engineer half an hour to complete a BHP calculation and the odds of a miscalculation rise as the data set grows in size and complexity.
Hybrid Energy Holds Promise for Artificial Lift for Offshore Brazilian Fields
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: March 2024

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper OTC 32671, “Technical Evaluation of the Use of Hybrid Energy (Solar and Offshore Wind) To Supply Artificial Lift Pumps on an Oil Platform on the Equatorial Margin,” by W.K. Silva, Ana L.R. Cunha, SPE, and Ana C. Alves, Federal University of Pará, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

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The complete paper investigates the relevance of wind and solar energy for the supply of artificial lift systems on offshore platforms in the Brazilian equatorial region. The scope of the authors’ study encompassed a detailed technical and environmental assessment, with an emphasis on the integration of a 10-MW floating solar photovoltaic (FSPV) power system to meet demand for 10 pumps. The results obtained highlight the high viability of the system in meeting the demand of these pumps and ensuring an adequate and sustainable energy supply.

Area of Study

The equatorial margin is an area in northern Brazil covering part of the sedimentary basins of the equatorial Atlantic. The region is home to important sedimentary basins such as the Amazon Basin, the Pará-Maranhão Basin, the Barreirinhas Basin, the Potiguar Basin, and the Ceará Basin, all known for their hydrocarbon reserves.

Offshore oil-exploration activities in the equatorial margin involve the installation of drilling and production platforms that include artificial lift systems. To power these systems, a reliable and continuous power source is required. The use of green energies such as wind and solar can be advantageous in meeting this purpose.

For the present study, the coastal city of Salinópolis in the state of Pará was selected because of its plentiful meteorological data and its location in the Pará-Maranhão Basin region.

Methodology

The methodology of the work consists of the evaluation of the energy required for artificial lifting systems with 10 pumps, using the nine steps developed by Baker Hughes’ Artificial Lift Research and Technology Center for the calculation of the power required to drive the pumps. Additionally, the study uses the System Advisor Model (SAM), November 2022 version, developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to simulate the FSPV. Information related to wind potential was obtained through the measuring stations of the National Institute of Meteorology (INMET).
Studies on Mechanical properties of Carbon epoxy composites by hand layup process
Authors: S MUZEER , M Natesan
Published: March 2024

In this research, Fabric reinforced polymer composites materials play an important role for their versatile applications. These materials have good strength, are light weighted and give high strength to weight ratio as compared to the other materials. This paper explains Carbon Fiber based Polymer Composites. Carbon fiber acts as reinforcement material. This research work mainly focused on finding the strength of the material, tensile and bending properties of carbon epoxy laminates. This research carries Symmetric Ply, Angle Ply, Cross Ply laminates, which are manufactured as of ASTM standards. This research conducts various mechanical tests for the above-mentioned three types of laminates. Mainly conducted Tensile and Bending tests. These tests were carried out on Electronic Tensometer. This research extended to conducted Tensile, bending tests for Sandwich Pannel specimen and compare the results with Cross, Symmetric and angle Ply laminates. Finally analyses the results of all three types of laminates. This paper explains the stress, strain and displacement of the symmetric, cross and angle ply with 0, + 45/-45 and 90 degrees angle orientations and Youngs modulus of the material.
Relationship between Sleep Disturbance and Developmental Status in preschool -Aged Children with Developmental Disorder
Authors: Kim Sung Hyun , Kim Chung Reen , Park Donghwi , Cho Kang Hee , Nam Je Shik
Published: March 2024

Background
Sleep has been known to affect childhood development. Sleep disturbance is likely to be more common in children with developmental delay (DD) than in children with normal development. There are few studies on the correlation between sleep disturbance and developmental aspects in children with DD. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the associations between the two in children with DD.
Methods
A total of 45 children (age range 27.0 ± 11.1) with DD were recruited and evaluated using sleep disturbance scale for children (SDSC), Bayley scales of infant and toddler development (BSID)-Ⅲ, gross-motor function measure (GMFM), and functional independence measure (FIM). The outcomes are expressed as means and standard deviations. The correlation between SDSC and BSID-Ⅲ, GMFM, and FIM was assessed using Spearman’s rank correlation test. Multiple regression analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between BSID-Ⅲ and SDSC. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results
In multiple regression analysis, cognition and socio-emotional domains of BSID-III were significantly associated with DOES subscore in SDSC. In addition, expressive language domain of the BSID-III was found to be associated with DA subscore in SDSC.
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that DA and DOES subscore of SDSC were correlated with developmental aspects in preschool-aged children with DD. This study suggest that we should pay more attention to sleep problems, even in preschool aged children with DD.
Sequential use of Microalgae and Constructed Wetlands and its potential to remove organic load, toxicity and pharmaceuticals from urban wastewaters
Authors: de Oliveira Fábio Rodrigo , Lutterbeck Carlos Alexandre , Schneider Rosana de Cassia de Souza , Rodriguez Adriane Lawisch , Baggiotto Carine , Kersting Mauricio , Rieger Alexandre , Nunes Tuanne Carvalho , Iepsen Guilherme Lemões , Frantz João Vitor , Lobo Eduardo Alcayaga , Allebrandt Bruna , Zanella Renato , de Oliveira Julia Antunes , Machado Enio Leandro
Published: March 2024

The present study aimed at to evaluate the performance of integrated system composed of microalgae (MA) and constructed wetlands (CW). The MA production tank was set up as a raceway type and microalgae of the genus Chlorella were inoculated, while the CW was set up inspired by the first stage of the French model and vegetated with the macrophytes Chrysopogon zizanioides, Typha domingensis and Dracaena trifaciata. The Hydraulic Retention Time in each unit was of 7 days, totaling 14 days of treatment. Promising results were obtained regarding the reductions of dissolved organic carbon (67.2%) and Total N (68.6%). The treatment was also able to fully remove the acute ecotoxicity against Dapnhia magna and the genotoxicity in the A. cepa test assay. Chromatographic analysis showed the presence of 9 pharmaceuticals in the raw wastewaters, whereas after the CW unit only residuals of dipyrone (1%) were still detected. Future recommendations include the investigation of the main removal mechanisms of the pharmaceuticals and improvements of the separation process of the MA.
Using granular activated carbon for enhanced phosphate removal by aerobic granular sludge development with propionate as carbon source
Authors: Sarvajith Manjunath , Reddy Gangidi Kiran Kumar , Nancharaiah Yarlagadda Venkata
Published: March 2024

Despite propionate being an important constituent of domestic wastewater, its effect on aerobic granular sludge (AGS) development and biological nutrient removal (BNR) pathways is not well studied. This study investigated the cultivation of AGS and establishment of BNR pathways using propionate as a sole carbon source in the bioreactors with and without granular activated carbon (GAC) particles. The presence of GAC particles reduced the start-up period for AGS formation and established of BNR pathways with propionate feeding. Aerobic granules were compact and had stable settling characteristics (≥ 1 mm, 6 g/L MLSS and 40 mL/g SVI). An increase in alginate-like exopolysaccharide (ALE) up to 400 mgALE/gSS corroborated with stable AGS formation. Stable and effective ammonium and total nitrogen removals were established by day 30. Ammonium was removed via simultaneous nitrification and denitrification as well as partial nitrification and denitritation pathways. Stable and efficient phosphorus removal was established from day 80. High phosphorus removals were corroborated with the abundance of polyphosphate accumulating organisms in the GAC biofilms. The GAC biofilms separated from the co-existing granules exhibited efficient phosphorus removal via enhanced bio-P removal. The high abundance of Thauera sp. in the GAC biofilms indicated its role in granulation and phosphorus removal under propionate feeding conditions.
Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) Analysis of the full parasite, Relliatina tetragona (Chicken Cestode)
Authors: godavarthy padma , kumari Sunila
Published: March 2024

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis is robust technique which can be used to identify functional groups of given material. In the present study an attempt was made to profile the cestode powder of Relliantina tetragona for the first time. The study was quite successful and FTIR analysis of the cestode powder yielded interesting results. The spectrum ranged from 1000-3500cm-1.A total of 19 major peaks were identified, of which five were the sharp peaks. The highest sharp peak was found at 1539cm-1, followed by 1641cm-1, 1026cm-1, 2920cm-1 and 2851cm-1.The functional groups were identified using https://chem.libretexts.org/ and Thermo fisher databases. The identification and interpretation of these peaks, yielded interesting results. The highest peak at 1539, refers to alpha (α) elastin, which seems to be abundant in the sample and probably justifies with the fact that the parasite may be often dependent upon this protein for apolysis. Peak at 1641cm-1 suggest a strong c = c stretching and refers to the presence of amide group, similarly 1026cm-1 refers to cellulose, followed by 2920cm-1 for suberin and 2851cm-1 for lignin, indicating that the cestode may have ingested these plant components from the host animal (chicken) and accumulated in its body. Apart from these peaks some minor peaks were observed at 721cm-1 and also at 1081cm-1. The peak at 721cm-1 suggests accumulation of iron oxide hematite and the peak at 1081cm-1suggesting the presence of cadmium oxide. In summary it may be said that, functional group profiling of Relliatina tetragona using FTIR was successful in giving us an in-depth understanding about the composition of dead parasite and also about the dietary constituents of the host animal in particular, which might help us to develop newer strategies and drugs to control the helminthic infections.
Cytogenotoxicity assessment of diesel and petrol automobile exhaust soot nanoparticles in erythrocytes of Channa punctatus fish
Authors: Goswami Sakshi , Singh Meenu , Arya Parul , Rani Varsha , Kumar Satyendra , Verma Yeshvandra , Rana Suresh Vir Singh
Published: March 2024

Nanoparticles derived from automobile exhaust may tend to travel hundreds of miles from their source of emissions and have an adverse impact on environmental health. Numerous studies have reported that the aquatic environment is known to be a natural recipient of environmental contaminants from the soil and air, which makes aquatic organisms vulnerable to contamination by ultrafine particles/nanoparticles. The present report aimed to investigate the cytogenotoxic potential of sublethal concentrations (0.05 ppm) of diesel and petrol automobile exhaust soot nanoparticles (DAESNPs and PAESNPs) in erythrocytes of the freshwater fish Channa punctatus. Morphological alterations (macrocytes, microcytes, kidney shaped, dacrocytes, notched, burr, sickle shaped and flask shaped), nuclear alterations (bean shaped, notched, lobbed, bud shaped, blebbed and condensed), MNs, oxidative stress, DNA damage and apoptosis were assessed. Increased frequencies of morphological alterations ( average of 7.12 ± 0.71, and 7.24 ± 0.84 in DAESNP- and PAESNP- treated fish, respectively), nuclear alterations ( average of 10.60 ±1.97, and 11.99 ± 1.24 in DAESNP- and PAESNP- treated fish, respectively) and MNs (13.83 ± 0.16, and 11.83 ± 1.58 in DAESNP- and PAESNP- treated fish, respectively) were found. Similarly, compared with that in the control group, the level of malondialdehyde, a byproduct of lipid peroxidation was significantly greater, while the level of reduced glutathione was lower in the DAESNP- and PAESNP- exposed fish. The comet analysis parameters revealed that both DAESNPs and PAESNPs induced DNA damage. In addition, Annexin-V FITC/PI assay data demonstrated that DAESNPs and PAESNPs led to the induction of apoptosis. Our report suggested that morphological and nuclear alterations in the erythrocytes of experimental fish occur in response to genotoxic stress and oxidative stress induced by DAESNPs and PAESNPs. Nonetheless, the apoptosis provoked by DAESNPs and PAESNPs is due to DNA damage.
DiSCreet: Distributed Delivery Service with Context-Aware Cooperation
Authors: Paillat Ludovic , Ignat Claudia-Lavinia , Frey Davide , Turuani Mathieu , Ismail Amine
Published: March 2024

End-to-end encrypted messaging applications such as Signal became widely popular thanks to their capability to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of online communication. While the highest security guarantees were long reserved to two-party communication, solutions for n-party communication remained either inefficient or less secure until the standardization of the MLS Protocol (Messaging Layer Security). This new protocol offers an efficient way to provide end-to-end secure communication with the same guarantees originally offered by the Signal Protocol for two-party communication. However, both solutions still rely on a centralized component for message delivery, called the Delivery Service in the MLS Protocol. The centralization of the Delivery Service makes it an ideal target for attackers and threatens the availability of any protocol relying on MLS. In order to overcome this issue, we propose DiSCreet (Distributed delIvery Service with Context-awaRE coopEraTion), a design that allows clients to exchange protocol messages efficiently and without any intermediary. It uses a Probabilistic Reliable-Broadcast mechanism to efficiently deliver messages and the Cascade Consensus Protocol to handle messages requiring an agreement. Our solution strengthens the availability of the MLS Protocol without compromising its security. We compare the theoretical performance of DiSCreet with another distributed solution, the DGKA protocol, and detail the implementation of our solution.
Predicting Co-seismic Landslides Using Distance and Azimuth Achieves Better Results
Authors: Zhang Zhenguo , Shi Yang , Xue Changhu , Feng Yu
Published: March 2024

Most machine learning (ML) studies in predicting co-seismic landslides relied on the Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA). Yet, the accuracy of PGA-based models can be compromised due to the limited availability of near-source observations and spatial information regarding seismic faults. This limitation can result in significant discrepancies between the accumulated PGA and the actual ground shaking, which cannot be overlooked. Here we show the ML model using the distance and azimuth to the epicenter performs better than the model using PGA in terms of accuracy as well as actual prediction results. Considering their computational efficiency and cost-effectiveness, the ML models utilizing distance and azimuth to the epicenter as inputs could be used as an alternative to PGA-based models for evaluating the impact of co-seismic landslides. Particularly, these models prove advantageous in near real-time scenarios and settings that require high spatial resolution.
Experimental study on soil improvement by electrochemical injection of calcium chloride solutions with time interval
Authors: Han Shaoyang , Wang Baotian , Wang Yu , Liu Wenpeng , Chen Chenghao , Zhang Yijiang
Published: March 2024

Injection of chemical solutions during electroosmosis is effective in enhancing the effect of electroosmosis and increasing the strength of soil. However, the improvement is mostly limited to the anode or cathode region. An improved method is proposed in this paper to enhance the non-uniform effect and efficiency of electroosmosis. Such method is electroosmosis with injection of calcium chloride through the anode, followed by injection through the central tube with a suitable time interval between injections. Experimental results indicate that using this method can significantly improve the non-uniform reduction in water content throughout the soil, mitigate the formation of cracks in the anode section, and therefore considerably inhibit the increase in the electric resistance. After treatment, the drained water could be raised to 3.59 times more than that of pure electroosmosis, and 1.3 times that of simultaneous injection through both the anode and the central tube. Moreover, the area of cementation was also expanded, approximately twice larger than that of pure electroosmosis and one and a half that of simultaneous injection. The results demonstrate that electroosmosis with a suitable time interval between injections could improve the efficiency of electroosmosis and expand the treatment region in soils.
Pricing Gamma Based Temperature Derivatives
Authors: Vwalika Kondwani Daniel , Dzupire Nelson
Published: March 2024

Farmers are impacted by temperature as high temperatures during the rainy season can lead to a substantial decrease in crop production. To safeguard farmers from this risk, temperature derivatives can be used, but they are frequently mispriced. This study aims to address this issue by developing a Stochastic Differential Equation (SDE) for temperature, with the assumption that it conforms to a gamma distribution. A synthesis technique that effectively manages the auto correlation within the data is employed to deduce the SDE. The resulting pricing formula is based on the anticipated value derived from the SDE. Notably, the formulated equation’s outcome is not linked to the expected temperature itself, but rather hinges on the gamma distribution parameters and the trigger temperature. This approach yields accurate forecasts for both price predictions and temperature projections. The model is found to predict temperature with R2 = 91%, MSE = 0.14, and MAPE = 1.3%. When used to price call option, the prices decrease with increase in trigger value, which is more realistic. Thus, the model is more flexible.
A rare case of fetal neural tube defect; Iniencephaly clausus
Authors: Arega Bantayehu Nega , Endalew Sintayehu Debas , Hailu Daniel Miskir
Published: March 2024

Iniencephaly is a rare type of neural tube defect characterized by the merging of the cervical and cervicothoracic vertebrae. This condition results in acute retroflexion of the head, a short neck, significant lordosis of the cervical spine, and ultimately an upturned face. Fetuses with iniencephaly often do not survive, with many being stillborn or dying shortly after birth. Here we are reporting a case of iniencephaly which was suspected on intrapartum ultrasound upon admission of a woman referred from a health center for diagnosis of preterm premature rupture of membrane and labor. The fetus died intrapartum a few minutes before delivery.
Improving Access to Communication Services by the Unserved and Underserved Communities in Uganda Through Information Communication Technology
Authors: Kituyi Geoffrey Mayoka , Abaho Ernest , Aguma Dennis , Nkambwe Ismael
Published: March 2024

This study sought to identify the key constraints faced by the unserved and underserved communities, the current interventions in supporting the unserved and underserved communities and sectors to access communication services, and the potential solutions for narrowing the digital divide. Data was collected from 44 companies randomly selected a total of 53 companies that participated in the e-Booster 2023 Uganda programme. A questionnaire was designed and digitized via Google forms to support easy and real-time data collection. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics including percentages, means and frequencies. Analysed data were presented using graphs and tables for easy understanding and interpretation. The major challenges faced by underserved and underserved communities in Uganda were identified as poor of infrastructure, limited access to electricity, high cost of digital devices and internet connectivity, high illiteracy rates, lack of awareness, regulatory barriers, language barriers, insecurity, and gender disparities. On the other hand, the main interventions by Uganda government were extension of network coverage to remote areas, promotion of digital literacy programs, reduction of taxation on communication devices and services, creation of regulatory frameworks that encourage investment in underserved regions, setting up community tele-centers, promotion of digital literacy programs, promotion of affordability initiatives, and promotion of local content. Proposed solutions for improved access were identified as the need to expand broadband infrastructure, bolstering the Universal Service Fund, promoting Public-Private Partnerships, establishing community networks, implementing mobile connectivity solutions, advancing digital literacy programs, ensuring digital affordability, encouraging local content creation, providing incentives for telecommunications companies, supporting startups with government initiatives, facilitating mobile money services and financial inclusion, investing in rural electrification, and fostering community engagement and awareness campaigns.
Camellia sinensis var. Assamica cv. Duntsa (Theaceae) chloroplast genome and comparative analysis: mutational hotspots and phylogenetic relationships
Authors: Li Jin , Qiu Xiao-Yan , Tang Han , Tang Jun , Zhong Ni , Liu Tian-Tian , Xiao Li-Zheng , Luo Hua
Published: March 2024

Background: Camellia sinensis var. assamica cv. Duntsa (C. duntsa) is an ancient tea accession in Hunan China. In order to understand the genetic background information of C. duntsa, clarify the relationship between C. duntsa and other tea trees. we sequenced the complete chloroplast genome of C. duntsa using the Illumina NovaSeq platform and compared it to other published chloroplast genomes from tea plants.
Results: The C. duntsa chloroplast genome is 157,025 bp in length with a GC content of 37.30%. It consists of a short single copy (SSC) region (18,277 bp), a large single copy (LSC) region (86,586 bp), and two inverted repeat regions (IRs) (26,081 bp). A total of 135 genes were identified, including 87 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 8 ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs), 37 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), and 3 pseudogene genes (2 ycf15 and 1 ycf1). In addition, a total of 968 long repetitive sequences were detected by comparative analysis with other tea tree chloroplast genes, of which 409 were forward, 557 were palindromic, and 2 were reverse. Among the 241-249 SSRs loci analyzed for comparison, most of them were single nucleic acid loci composed of A/T. Besides, 6 mutation hotspots (rpoC1, ycf1, petB, ndhD, rpl16, rpoC2) were identified.
Conclusion: Phylogenetic analysis showed that C. duntsa shows a relatively close evolutionary relationship with Camellia sinensis var. sinensis cv. Anhua, Camellia sinensis var. sinensis cv. Fudingdabaicha, and Camellia ptilophylla. The results can provide valuable information for better understanding Camellia species chloroplast evolution.
Intra-neuronal alpha-synuclein deposition is related to cardiac noradrenergic deficiency and olfactory dysfunction in neurogenic orthostatic hypotension
Authors: Isonaka Risa , Sullivan Patti , Holmes Courtney , Goldstein David S.
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH) results from deficient reflexive delivery of norepinephrine to cardiovascular receptors in response to decreased cardiac venous return. Lewy body (LB) forms of nOH entail low 18F-dopamine-derived radioactivity (a measure of cardiac noradrenergic deficiency), olfactory dysfunction by the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), and increased deposition of alpha-synuclein (ɑ-syn) in dermal sympathetic noradrenergic nerves by the ɑ-syn-tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) colocalization index. This observational, cross-sectional study explored whether combinations of these biomarkers specifically identify LB forms of nOH.
Methods: Clinical laboratory data were reviewed from patients referred for evaluation at the National Institutes of Health for chronic autonomic failure between 2011 and 2023. The cutoff value for low myocardial 18F-dopamine-derived radioactivity was 6,000 nCi-kg/cc-mCi, for olfactory dysfunction an UPSIT score ≤ 28, and for an increased ɑ-syn-TH colocalization index ≥ 1.57.
Results: A total of 44 patients (31 LB, 13 non-LB nOH) had data for all 3 biomarkers. Compared to the non-LB group, the LB nOH group had low myocardial 18F-dopamine-derived radioactivity, low UPSIT scores, and high ɑ-syn-TH colocalization indexes (p<0.0001 each). Combining the 3 biomarkers completely separated the groups. Cluster analysis identified 2 distinct groups (p<0.0001) independently of the clinical diagnosis, 1 cluster corresponding exactly to LB nOH.
Conclusion: LB forms of nOH feature cardiac noradrenergic deficiency, olfactory dysfunction, and increased ɑ-syn-TH colocalization in skin biopsies. Combining the data for these variables efficiently separates LB from non-LB nOH. Independently of the clinical diagnosis, this biomarker triad identifies a pathophysiologically distinct cluster of nOH patients.
Efficient quaternion CUR method for low-rank approximation to quaternion matrix
Authors: Wu Pengling , Kou Kit Ian , Cai Hongmin , Yu Zhaoyuan
Published: March 2024

The low-rank quaternion matrix approximation has been successfully applied in many applications involving signal processing and color image processing. However, the cost of quaternion models for generating low-rank quaternion matrix approximation is sometimes considerable due to the computation of the quaternion singular value decomposition (QSVD), which limits their application to real large-scale data. To address this deficiency, an efficient quaternion matrix CUR (QMCUR) method for low-rank approximation is suggested , which provides significant acceleration in color image processing. We first explore the QMCUR approximation method, which uses actual columns and rows of the given quaternion matrix, instead of the costly QSVD. Additionally, two different sampling strategies are used to sample the above-selected columns and rows. Then, the perturbation analysis is performed on the QMCUR approximation of noisy versions of low-rank quater-nion matrices. Extensive experiments on both synthetic and real data further reveal the superiority of the proposed algorithm compared with other algorithms for getting low-rank approximation, in terms of both efficiency and accuracy.
Clinician response after receipt of abnormal pediatric ambulatory blood pressure monitoring – characteristics associated with inertia and action
Authors: Gelderen Evelien van , Psoter Kevin J. , Faria Rafi , Pruette Cozumel , Brady Tammy M.
Published: March 2024

Background
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) is recommended for diagnosis and management of hypertension. We aimed to identify characteristics associated with physician action after receipt of abnormal findings.
Methods
This was a retrospective cross-sectional analysis of patients 5–22 years old who underwent 24-hr ABPM between 2003–2022, met criteria for masked or ambulatory hypertension, and had a pediatric nephrology clinic visit within 2 weeks of ABPM. “Action” was defined as medication change/initiation, lifestyle or adherence counseling, evaluation ordered, or interpretation with no change. Characteristics of children with/without 1 or more actions were compared using Student t tests and Chi square. Regression analyses explored the independent association of patient characteristics with physician action.
Results
115 patients with masked (n = 53) and ambulatory (n = 62) hypertension were included: mean age 13.0 years, 48% female, 38% Black race, and 21% with chronic kidney disease. 97 (84%) of encounters had a documented physician action. Medication change (52%), evaluation ordered (40%), and prescribed lifestyle change (35%) were the most common actions. Adherence counseling for medication and lifestyle recommendations were documented in 3% of encounters. 24-hr, wake SBP load, and sleep DBP load were significantly higher among those with physician action. Patients with > 1 action had greater adiposity, SBP, and dipping. Neither age, obesity, nor kidney disease were independently associated with physician action.
Conclusions
While most abnormal ABPMs were acted upon, 16% did not have a documented action. Greater BP load was one of the few characteristics associated with physician action. Of potential actions, adherence counseling was underutilized.
Minocycline prevents early age-related cognitive decline in a mouse model of intellectual disability caused by ZBTB18/RP58 haploinsufficiency
Authors: Tanaka Tomoko , Hirai Shinobu , Manabe Hiroyuki , Endo Kentaro , Shimbo Hiroko , Nishito Yasumasa , Yoshitane Hikari , Okado Haruo
Published: March 2024

Transcriptional repressor ZBTB18/RP58 haploinsufficiency, which comprises heterozygous ZBTB18/RP58 missense and truncating variants, causes intellectual disability. However, the mechanism responsible for the onset of intellectual disability, and whether this disorder can be prevented and treated, are unknown. We focused on changes in cognitive function about adulthood in intellectual disability. Heterozygous Zbtb18/Rp58-knockout mice were used as a model for ZBTB18/RP58 haploinsufficiency. We assessed multiple behaviors and local field potential, examined DNA fragmentation and mitochondrial morphology, and performed histochemical analysis and transcriptome analysis in the hippocampus to evaluate chronic inflammation. Object location memory assessed by an object location test in wild-type mice was the same in 2 and 4–5-month-old mice, but it was impaired in 12–18-month-old mice. By contrast, object location memory in 2-month-old Zbtb18/Rp58 heterozygous-knockout mice was similar to that in age-matched wild-type mice but was impaired by 4–5-months of age, indicating the early onset of impaired spatial memory in the mutant mice. Zbtb18/Rp58 heterozygous-knockout mice exhibited early onset of DNA damage accumulation and an increment of activated microglia in the dentate gyrus that was associated with defective DNA repair. Because dementia is an established comorbidity in persons with intellectual disability, mutant mice may have mimicked not only delay of cognitive function but also an acquired cognitive impairment. Notably, chronic minocycline therapy, which has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, attenuated age-related phenotypes, such as accumulation of DNA damage, an increase of microglial activation and impairment of object location memory, in Zbtb18/Rp58 heterozygous-knockout mice. In conclusion, Zbtb18/Rp58 heterozygous-knockout mice showed early onset of cognitive decline caused by inflammation with a defect in DNA repair. Minocycline prevented early-onset cognitive decline, suggesting that it could have potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of ZBTB18/RP58 haploinsufficiency-associated cognitive dysfunction.
With aging, where should innovation go? -- Interpretation based on the perspective of human capital
Authors: Cui Jinghang , Zhou Rong
Published: March 2024

Background With population aging, this demographic dividend diminishes, which may have implications for innovation in a region. Understanding the relationship between population aging and innovation is crucial for addressing economic challenges associated with an aging population.Methods This study utilized panel data on population aging and innovation from 252 cities between 2005 and 2014. Various estimation methods, including the fixed effects model, the generalized method of moments (GMM), and the mediation model, were used to analyze the data. These methods allowed for a comprehensive examination of the impact of population aging on innovation and the role of human capital in mediating this relationship.Results The findings of the study indicate that both the 60-year-old and 65-year-old population significantly hinder innovation. The GMM suggests that innovation is "path dependent," meaning that past levels of innovation do not alleviate the negative effects of population aging on future innovation. Additionally, the mediation model analysis demonstrates that human capital plays a crucial role in mediating the relationship between population aging and innovation, highlighting the importance of investing in human capital development.Conclusions The findings of this research highlight the obstacles that population aging presents to fostering innovation. Overcoming these obstacles necessitates strategic investments in human capital and policies that support innovation. It is imperative for policymakers to implement recommendations that address population aging and encourage innovation in order to navigate the challenges posed by an aging population and promote a vibrant and dynamic economy.
Measuring Financial Efficiency in China
Authors: Zheng Chuanzhen , Duan Kaifeng , Shan Yuan
Published: March 2024

This paper develops a comprehensive and standardized framework for quantitatively assessing the financial efficiency of a nation. We establish a crucial link between the financial sector and the real sector, indirectly unveiling insights into financial efficiency through the allocation structure of marginal capital output. We use a two-stage semiparametric estimation method to eliminate the endogeneity of the production function in the calculation of financial efficiency. The values of financial efficiency for China spanning the years 1997 to 2018 exhibit a distinct pattern of initially increasing, followed by a decline, and subsequent resurgence, culminating in the highest recorded value in 2008. Prior to 2015, the financial efficiency closely mirrored the trajectories of total factor productivity (TFP) and GDP growth rate. However, post-2015, we observe a discernible deviation in the trend of financial efficiency from these two economic indicators. These results can be verified by external empirical facts and evidence.
Optometry students’ experiences of their clinical training: A qualitative study in a low- resource setting
Authors: Mucunguzi Boaz , Guti Walker , Tumwine Moreen , Mubuuke Aloysius G. , Munabi Ian , Raaheim Arild , Kiguli Sarah
Published: March 2024

Background: There is a gradual increase in the number of optometry education programs in low resource settings yet there is limited knowledge on optometry students’ experiences of their clinical training. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the optometry students’ experiences of their clinical learning environment at a national referral and teaching hospital within a low resource setting.
Methods: The study adopted a qualitative design using face to face in-depth interviews to explore experiences of the participants. All 16 optometry students in fourth-year at university were purposefully recruited into the study. Data was collected at the end of the students’ clinical training at the eye clinic of a national referral and teaching hospital. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed for analysis using an inductive thematic approach.
Results: Two themes, learning at the eye clinic and organization of the eye clinic, were identified to represent participants’ experiences. Each theme had three sub themes.
Conclusion: The students’ experiences in a clinical learning environment take a transformative nature from initial hesitancy and feelings of inferiority, anxiety, uncertainty and nervousness to increased confidence and active engagement. Future studies should compare optometry students’ experiences in lower-level health units to those in national referrals hospitals.
A longitudinally measured disease progression-marker data analysis of HIV/TB co-infected patients taking HAART drugs in a public Hospital, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebreyes Delelegn Eshete
Published: March 2024

Background
The applications of HAART drugs play a great role in decreasing the incidence of TB and TB related death in persons living with HIV/AIDS. However, after HAART initiation, a considerable number of the TB infection and TB-HIV damages are still at a shocking level especially we could understand that the addition of TB to this damage made things “Mumps on the Goiter”.
Methods
A 407 co-infection patients data under HAART follow up and diagnosed for TB were analyzed using linear mixed model to explain the effects of HAART treatment for the improvement of patient’s CD4 count. The appropriate fixed and random effect model was selected using AIC, BIC, and log-likelihood values.
Results
Out of a total of 407 HIV/TB co-infected patients, 196 (48.16%) were females. When we look at the baseline functional status of patients, 24.57% were able to do their day to day activities like farming, harvesting, office work and others, 62.16% were ambulatory and 13.27% were bedridden for all visit times. Based on linear mixed model, the study results reveal that, duration of treatment, age, marital status, functional status, ART_Regimen, education and base line CD4 + count were among the significant predictors of linear mixed effect model at 5% significance level for the change of CD4 + counts over time.
Conclusions
Linear mixed effect model with random intercept and random slope model, and an autoregressive of order 1 (AR (1)) covariance structure have been used to model this correlated data type and a random variables effect. Age, marital status, functional status, ART_Regimen, education and base line CD4 + count were identified as a potential risk factor for the progression of CD4 + count of the patients. Patients who have a good baseline CD4 count had a positive significant effect for the improvement of CD4 counts of the patients over time.
Full-cell C/SiO2ǁNa3V2(PO4)3 high-performance Na-ion battery: Diffusion kinetics and N/P optimization
Authors: Chuong Nguyen Kim Yen , Le My Loan Phung , Vu Tan Phat , Tran Van Man
Published: March 2024

C/SiO2 composite derived from rice husks (RHs) have gained significant attention in the development of abundant anode materials for sodium-ion battery due to their unique features, simple synthesis process without using additional sources of silica and carbon and affordable price. Despite the extensive research reported, a part of the expensive hard carbon, the choice of anode materials is still limited leading to the challenges in the commercialization of SIBs... In this study, full-cell C/SiO2ǁNa3V2(PO4)3 was optimized the assembly conditions, achieving the highest and most stable capacity. In detail, N/P ratio surveys using presodiation C/SiO2 materials is the remaining factor. Besides, evaluations of the diffusion process kinetics in C/SiO2 have been conducted through Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and Galvanostatic Intermittent Titration Technique (GITT) studies. Within the pre-sodiation anode, full-cell C/SiO2ǁNa3V2(PO4)3 at N/P ~ 1.2 offers the highest capacity of 126.3 mAh.g− 1 and capacity retention of 83.7% after 50 cycles. Moreover, other electrochemical evaluation techniques were also used in this study, such as: EIS ex-situ, CV, C-rate, GCPL. Finally, with the information of this study, the optimization of Na-ion battery assembly conditions from material C/SiO2 has been explored, opening a new future for cost-effective batteries.
Study of Structural, Optical and Electrical properties of Zn- doped MoS 2 Nanomaterials for their Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Shahid Shazima , Ali Akbar .
Published: March 2024

MoS2 i.e., a semiconductor material has promising electrochemical properties, in the field of supercapacitors. Since molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) possesses special electrical, mechanical, and chemical properties, it has attracted a lot of attention for its use in supercapacitors. The current state of play and obstacles in using MoS2-based materials to supercapacitor technology are examined in this research. In this research, Zn doped MoS2 with different concentrations of Zn (2%, 7%, 12%) have been synthesized by Sol-Gel technique. To assess several characteristics of synthesized materials different characterization techniques such as X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-Visible (UV-Vis.) spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were applied. The XRD patterns showed the Hexagonal structure confirming the successful formation of the material. Furthermore, the optical properties such as absorption and bandgap of the synthesized nanomaterials and composite were determined by UV-Vis. Spectroscopy. SEM indicates the sheets like morphology of the synthesized ZnXMoS2−x. CV and EIS measurements indicate the good electrochemical performance of the synthesized material. The electrode's supercapacitive measurements reveal a high specific capacitance of 1959 F/g for MoS2 while 2304.89 F/g for ZnXMoS2−x respectively at the scan rate of 10 mV/s. EIS measurements were taken from “Nyquist” plot indicating a decrease in resistances of modified electrodes of the samples. The impedance in ZnX(12%)MoS2 − X reduced to half than undoped MoS2.
Ion-acoustic solitary structures in electron-ion dusty plasma
Authors: Pain Rittika , Dalui Sandip , Sardar Sankirtan , Bandyopadhyay Anup
Published: March 2024

We have studied the formation of arbitrary amplitude ion-acoustic solitary structures using Sagdeev pseudo-potential approach in an unmagnetized dusty plasma system in the absence of collision whose constituents are combined Kappa-Cairns distributed electrons, negative-charged stationary dust particulates and adiabatic warm ions. This system supports both positive and negative potential conventional solitons along with the coexistence of these two solitons, double layers and supersolitons of negative polarity. Different types of solitary structures along with the impacts of the plasma parameters, viz., Mach number, suprathermal parameter and nonthermal parameter, of this system on the amplitude of these structures have been investigated by plotting the pseudo-potential with respect to the electrostatic potential. The formation of supersoliton after the formation of soliton has been illustrated using the mechanical analogy of phase portraits. The transition of soliton to supersoliton and soliton to double layer has been illustrated.
Predictors of TSH Normalization in Thyrotoxicosis Patients after Treatment
Authors: Han Cheng-Han , Yin Chun-Hao , Chen Jin-Shuen , Chen Yao-Shen , Chu Chih-Hsun , Chuang Wan-Chi , Hung Hao-Chang
Published: March 2024

Purpose
Thyrotoxicosis, characterized by elevated thyroid hormone levels, is a significant public health concern. This study aimed to identify predictive factors for the delayed thyroid function recovery in thyrotoxicosis patients, a crucial aspect for optimizing treatment and patient care.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of adult thyrotoxicosis patients diagnosed at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan, from January 2014 to December 2021. The study assessed patient characteristics, comorbidities, medications, and laboratory data. The main outcome was the rate of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) normalization, defined as achieving normalized levels within 3 months.
Results
The study included 443 patients, with a mean age of 47.2 years and a predominance of female patients (73.1%). The average time to achieve normalized TSH levels was 6.9 months. Key factors associated with delayed TSH normalization included higher body mass index (BMI) [odds ratio (OR) = 1.06, confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.12], elevated serum free T4 levels (OR = 1.97; CI, 1.44–2.69), and treatment with propylthiouracil (OR = 2.66; CI, 1.33–5.32). In contrast, factors such as sex, age, season of diagnosis, and comorbidities did not significantly impact the rate of TSH normalization.
Conclusion
The study highlights the importance of considering individual patient characteristics, such as BMI and initial free T4 levels, in thyrotoxicosis management. The findings suggest a potential preference for carbimazole over PTU in achieving faster TSH normalization. This research contributes to the understanding of thyrotoxicosis recovery and supports the need for personalized treatment approaches in clinical practice.