bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Framework and Blueprint for Building Capacity in Global Orthopaedic Surgical Outreach
Authors: Shapiro Lauren M. , Welch Jessica M. , Chatterjee Maya , Katarincic Julie A. , Leversedge Fraser J. , Dyer George S.M. , Fufa Duretti T. , Kozin Scott H. , Chung Kevin C. , Fox Paige M. , Chang James , Kamal Robin N.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) from high-income countries provide surgical outreach for patients in low and middle-income countries (LMICs); however, these efforts lack a coordinated measurement of their ability to build capacity. While the World Health Organization and others recommend outreach trips that aim to build the capacity of the local health-care system, no guidance exists on how to accomplish this. The objective of this paper is to establish a framework and a blueprint to guide the operations of NGOs that provide outreach to build orthopaedic surgical capacity in LMICs.

Methods:

We conducted a qualitative analysis of semistructured interviews with 16 orthopaedic surgeons and administrators located in 7 countries (6 LMICs) on the necessary domains for capacity-building; the analysis was guided by a literature review of capacity-building frameworks. We subsequently conducted a modified nominal group technique with a consortium of 10 U.S.-based surgeons with expertise in global surgical outreach, which was member-checked with 8 new stakeholders from 4 LMICs.

Results:

A framework with 7 domains for capacity-building in global surgical outreach was identified. The domains included professional development, finance, partnerships, governance, community impact, culture, and coordination. These domains were tiered in a hierarchical system to stratify the level of capacity for each domain. A blueprint was developed to guide the operations of an organization seeking to build capacity.

Conclusions:

The developed framework identified 7 domains to address when building capacity during global orthopaedic surgical outreach. The framework and its tiered system can be used to assess capacity and guide capacity-building efforts in LMICs. The developed blueprint can inform the operations of NGOs toward activities that focus on building capacity in order to ensure a measured and sustained impact.
Effects of Wettability and Minerals on Residual Oil Distributions Based on Digital Rock and Machine Learning
Authors: Zhang Yimin , Lin Chengyan , Wu Yuqi , Ren Lihua , An Senyou
Published: August 2022

The wettability of mineral surfaces has significant impacts on transport mechanisms of two-phase flow, distribution characteristics of fluids, and the formation mechanisms of residual oil during water flooding. However, few studies have investigated such effects of mineral type and its surface wettability on rock properties in the literature. To unravel the dependence of hydrodynamics on wettability and minerals distribution, we designed a new experimental procedure that combined the multiphase flow experiments with a CT scan and QEMSCAN to obtain 3D digital models with multiple minerals and fluids. With the aid of QEMSCAN, six mineral components and two fluids in sandstones were segmented from the CT data based on the histogram threshold and watershed methods. Then, a mineral surface analysis algorithm was proposed to extract the mineral surface and classify its mineral categories. The in situ contact angle and pore occupancy were calculated to reveal the wettability variation of mineral surface and distribution characteristics of fluids. According to the shape features of the oil phase, the self-organizing map (SOM) method, one of the machine learning methods, was used to classify the residual oil into five types, namely, network, cluster, film, isolated, and droplet oil. The results indicate that each mineral’s contribution to the mineral surface is not proportional to its relative content. Feldspar, quartz, and clay are the main minerals in the studied sandstones and play a controlling role in the wettability variation. Different wettability samples show various characteristics of pore occupancy. The water flooding front of the weakly water-wet to intermediate-wet sample is uniform, and oil is effectively displaced in all pores with a long oil production period. The water-wet sample demonstrates severe fingering, with a high pore occupancy change rate in large pores and a short oil production period. The residual oil patterns gradually evolve from networks to clusters, isolated, and films due to the effects of snap-off and wettability inversion. This paper reveals the effects of wettability of mineral surface on the distribution characteristics and formation mechanisms of residual oil, which offers us an in-deep understanding of the impacts of wettability and minerals on multiphase flow and helps us make good schemes to improve oil recovery.
Production Optimization Using CO2 Gas Lift in EOR Fields: A Permian Basin Case Study
Authors: Brewer Melanie , Andel Derek , Bandyopadhyay Parag
Published: August 2022

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is commonly used for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in the Permian Basin and is gaining interest for Carbon Capture, Utilization & Storage. A study was conducted to develop candidate selection criteria, pilot test the design, and optimize CO2 gas lift to stabilize production on intermittently flowing wells in one of these EOR fields.

The initial CO2 gas lift design was installed in 2019 using a capillary string, downhole check valve, gas lift mandrel, and packer. A 34-day bottomhole pressure and temperature survey was evaluated to assess the success of the pilot and improve the equipment design for future installations. The phase changes of CO2 were accounted for when evaluating the pilot, modeling gas lift, and improving equipment design.

Carbon dioxide is a complex fluid at the bottomhole pressures (BHP) and temperatures (BHT) observed during the pilot. These pressures and temperatures were plotted on the CO2 phase diagram, which showed phase changes between vapor and liquid at higher gas lift injection rates. Further analysis revealed the CO2 changed phase from a liquid to a vapor across the downhole check valve. The Joule-Thompson (JT) effect across the check valve at the tubing entry point dropped the temperature of the produced fluids so much that the CO2 changed phase from a vapor back to a liquid. This increased the hydrostatic pressure and therefore, the bottomhole flowing pressure.

These CO2 phase changes in the tubing occurred in cycles comprising five distinct stages: (1) BHT cooling forced CO2 from the vapor to liquid phase and increased BHP; (2) BHT remained fairly steady as BHP increased due to liquid loading; (3) BHT started warming at a faster rate as BHP rose due to the decreasing pressure drop across the downhole check valve; (4) the tubing unloaded as CO2 flashed in a chain reaction down the tubing, resulting in an influx of warmer reservoir fluid; and (5) BHT remained steady as BHP decreased and the annular packer fluid restarted the cooling process. Results from this initial pilot were used successfully to optimize CO2 gas lift for subsequent installations.

CO2 gas lift can be an effective artificial lift method to stabilize production if the equipment is designed correctly to maximize the CO2 gas fraction at the tubing entry point. A poorly designed CO2 gas lift installation may result in unstable production from liquid loading events caused by the cyclic JT effect. CO2 gas lift is a valuable artificial lift method to reduce failure frequency and operating costs in EOR fields with readily available CO2.
Improve ESP Pump Sizing Through Enhanced Performance Prediction of ESP Stages in Two-Phase Flow Applications
Authors: Sheth Ketankumar Kantilal , Brown Donn Jason , Kopecky Trevor Alan
Published: August 2022

Electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) must handle two-phase flow (liquid and gas) conditions in production wells. Pump stages are designed for liquid handling, and the pump performance is significantly affected by the presence of gas. ESPs are tested in two-phase flow conditions, and performance is measured stage by stage to improve the understanding of gas, its limitations, and its effects.

ESPs are tested in a high-pressure, two-phase flow loop. Pumps are instrumented across stages for pressure measurements. Pumps are tested at intake pressures between 50 and 250 psi, with gas percentages of 0 to 95% maximum, and at different flow rates ranging from 40 to 70 Hz for complete performance mapping. The flow loop is capable of up to 80+% gas and 250 psi intake pressure at the pump intake, running up to 60 Hz, 300 HP, and 18,000 bpd of fluid. Pump performance is evaluated for the various gas conditions at various speeds and intake pressures.

Pump performance is significantly affected in two-phase applications. The performance deteriorates with an increase in the gas percentage and improves with an increase in the speed and the intake pressure. Mixed flow pumps handle gas better than radial flow pumps. Larger diameter pumps have higher gas handling capabilities than smaller diameter pumps.

Sizing taper pumps operating in a flow range higher than the BEP flow range and additional pump stages in the sizing provides longer life, higher reliability, and more efficient operation in gassy applications. Pump performance under various downhole conditions was investigated, and a new technique was developed for the sizing of ESPs in two-phase flow applications.
Autonomous Control of Well Downtime to Optimize Production and Cycling in Sucker Rod Pump Artificially Lifted Wells
Authors: Nickell Ian , Treiberg Terry
Published: August 2022

For decades sucker rod pump artificially, lifted wells have used devices called pump off controllers (POC) to match the pumping unit's runtime to the available reservoir production by idling the well for a set time where variable frequency drives are not available. In doing this the POC allows the well to enter a set period of downtime when the downhole pump fillage is incomplete to avoid premature failures, and then brings the well back online to operate before production is lost. Although this method has been successful for several years, autonomous control algorithms can be utilized to reduce failures or increase production in cases where the downtime is not already optimized. Optimizing the idle time for a sucker rod pump artificially lifted well involves understanding the amount of time required to fill the near wellbore storage area before generating a fluid column above the pump intake that will begin to hinder inflow from the reservoir into the wellbore. By varying the idle time and observing the impact on production and cycles the program hunts for the optimal idle time. By constantly hunting for the optimal idle time the optimization process can adjust the idle time when operating conditions change. This gives the advantage of always meeting the current wellbore and reservoir conditions without human intervention. Autonomously modulating the idle time for a well, if done properly will reduce incomplete fillage pump strokes in cases where the idle time is too short or will increase the wells production in cases where the idle time is too long. Overall this will result in the optimization of wells by reducing failures and/or increasing production, generating a huge value to the end user by automating the entire process of downtime optimization.
Sucker Rod Connection Failure Reduction Using a Three-Pronged Approach
Authors: Anderson Jordan , Oliva Esteban , Richardson Courtney , Mogus Stephen , Morin Dylan
Published: August 2022

The objective of this study is to detail the improper make up related sucker rod connection failure reduction efforts of two operators in reciprocating rod pump applications. The study will give an overview of a "healthy" sucker rod connection along with their common failure mechanisms and root causes. Failure data will be shown and ultimately a three-pronged approach will be recommended for connection reliability improvement.

Failure data will be analyzed using a total sucker rod connection failure metric with one operator in the Permian and another operator in the Bakken. Different forms of the three-pronged approach were carried out over time by both operators, so an analysis of the efficacy of the changes will be made to help understand the necessary operational changes required. A combination of quality assurance/quality control programs, technologies and services were used in efforts to reduce sucker rod connection failures. These efforts will be explained in detail to provide the necessary information to outline the success of the authors.

The results revealed that there were three main factors that reduced the failures of the operators: 1) Rigorous QA/QC programs to rig operations, vendor facilities and transportation services of sucker rods, 2) implementing sucker rods specifically designed and manufactured to be ran without traditional thread lubricant, and 3) in-shop services of rod/coupling prep and hand-tight or torqued (buck-on) application. These three factors became the three-pronged approach. The data suggests that their simultaneous implementation is the best strategy to deliver the expected reliability improvement.
Anodic Coiled Rod Mitigates Corrosion Damage in Well with Aggressive CO2, H2S Conditions
Authors: Perri Alexander Claudio , Sultanian Angela
Published: August 2022

The objective of this paper is to share insights on mitigating sucker rod corrosion damage in vertical, horizontal, and deviated wells with aggressive corrosive conditions such as H2S and CO2, particularly those with histories of corrosion-related rod and tubing failures.

Corrosion is a common problem in production operations, accounting for two-thirds of all rod string failures and costing hundreds of millions annually to remediate downhole tubing damage alone, according to NACE International. This paper presents the development and initial field application results of a continuously applied metallic coating that actively participates in the electrochemical aspects of corrosion in carbon and low-alloy steels. Moreover, the solution protects uncoated segments of rod and other steel components in the wellbore while reducing abrasion by enhancing friction properties compared to bare steel.

The authors outline the key properties and characteristics of this coating, including evaluating its performance relative to traditional corrosion protection measures such as barrier coatings. Rather than acting as a barrier layer, the metallic coating actively protects against corrosion and has inherent physical properties that self-heal surface scratches and abrasions. This is particularly valuable in horizontal and directional wells with high dog leg severities and sideloading forces that contribute to rod/tubing abrasion.

Results are presented from laboratory testing as well as initial trial applications in wells with histories of rod failures due to corrosion, typically requiring interventions with workover rigs. In one such trial, the metallic coating was applied to a coiled rod string installed in a high-CO2 content well on progressing cavity pump. The coated coiled rod string was installed in January 2019. After five months of service, the coated string was pulled to inspect its condition. The examination revealed that the rod was unaffected by corrosion. A second inspection after nine months found evidence of rod string wear but no corrosion damage. The well has been in operation for 140 weeks (and counting), achieving a ten-fold improvement in the average run time before installing coated coiled rod.

The novelty of this approach is the application of an advanced materials science-based coating to extend rod string service life in corrosive environments through active protection. In addition, it requires no special handling or installation equipment, and the metallic material allows rod strings to be recycled (eliminating potential environmental and downstream damage risks associated with barrier coatings).

As supported by lab and field case study data, the results of deploying this method include increased production uptime, reduced workover frequencies and associated remediation costs, and lower overall LOE and lifting cost per barrel of oil produced.
Improving Jet Lift Runtime Using Machine Learning and Enhanced Power Fluid Pump Instrumentation
Authors: Hicks Brian
Published: August 2022

Jet lift has no moving components downhole, which makes it a higher reliability lift method for accelerating initial production from unconventional tight oil wells. The surface jet lift power fluid pump frequently becomes the primary limitation of overall system reliability and uptime. This paper will review several field case studies of novel wireless instrumentation being applied in combination with machine learning techniques to increase the runtime of multiplex plunger pumps and horizontal surface pumps used as power fluid pumps.

Wireless instrumentation was installed on multiple wells to capture critical power fluid pump equipment health data (vibration, temperature, magnetic flux, etc.). This instrumentation was installed on all critical components of the surface pump system, and then combined with electrical and site instrumentation data connected to the pump's variable speed drive. The entire data feed was then captured through a local gateway and into a cloud data historian. The data was processed to establish an acceptable performance baseline. Equipment health models were created using machine learning techniques to compare the real-time data feed against reliability prediction algorithms. The equipment health status was then used to evaluate time-based maintenance versus condition-based maintenance, improving overall system uptime performance.

The field case studies indicated that overall jet lift system reliability is improved by carefully monitoring, modeling, and predicting power fluid pump performance. When combined with condition-based maintenance and field response protocols, overall jet lift system uptime can be improved. Safety risks are also reduced due to less frequent site visits.

Most machine learning and AI papers focus on applying new analytics methods to existing instrumentation and data. Maximizing the benefit of analytics requires more robust data and an integrated field instrumentation approach. This paper will present the increased benefit of developing and deploying additional instrumentation to capture equipment health data designed to increase the performance of cloud analytics.
On the Injectivity of an Integral Operator Connected to Riemann Hypothesis
Authors: Adam Dumitru
Published: August 2022

An updated and cleaned version of v7 (doi: 10.21203 /rs.3.rs-1159792/v7) has been accepted for publication. This preprint is asimplified version of the previous one, focused in obtaining the optimal evaluations on approximation subspaces of the injectivity parameters associated to the integral operator used in the equivalent formulation of the Riemann Hypothesis (RH) (see [1]).We reiterate: a sufficient condition (Injectivity Criteria, Th.1) forthe injectivity of an linear operator is the existence of a strict positive inferior bound for the sequence of the injectivity parameters of its matrix representations on a dense family of approximation subspaces.Proving the injectivity of this integral operator we addressed theAlcantara-Bode equivalence and consequently, proving that RH is true.
A comparative study by using machine learning classifiers to enhance classification and prediction of heart failure disease
Authors: Shukla Shivanshi , Chouhan Usha , Suryawanshi Sunil Kumar , Choudhari Jyoti Kant
Published: August 2022

PurposeHeart failure is a complex clinical condition when the heart cannot provide blood with enough flow for the body's needs. It is a major clinical and public health problem. Even if heart failure is not yet diagnosed, it is important to get your health checked every three to six months. This study aims to improve the accuracy of diagnosing heart failure by using machine learning classifiers such as Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE) and Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE). MethodsHeart failure data has been acquired from the University of California, Irvine (UCI) repository. To improve the accuracy of diagnosing heart failure, we employed the following methods for this study: k-Nearest Neighbor, Naive Bayes (NB), Random Forest, XGBoost, Decision Tree (DT), Logistic Regression (LR), and Support Vector Machines (SVM). The model was validated using the F-measure and ROC-AUC (Receiver Characteristic Area Under Curve) methods. ResultsSupport vector machines employing logistic regression as a feature selection strategy produced the most significant classification accuracy of 90%, while support vector machines utilising RF as a feature selection strategy showed an accuracy of 83%. We also have an accuracy of 90% in the random forest as a machine learning methodology with all of our features.ConclusionThe small dataset size of the current research presents a challenge to everyone's ability to gain more accurate findings. Improved diagnostics for heart failure may be possible in the future using our machine-learning classifier-based classification system. To accurately forecast heart failure, this is the easiest way to use and the most accurate.
RF-based mini-Drone Detection, Identification & Jamming in No Fly Zones using Software Defined Radio
Authors: Slimeni feten , Dalleji Tijeni
Published: August 2022

Recently, mini-drone exploitation is rising in diverse domains such as recreation, commerce and defense. It serves to save human lives, protect country borders and carry urgent deliveries. Given the use of inexpensive components, mini-drones are within every one’s reach. Therefore, malicious mini-drone users are able to threaten sensitive areas and to do illegal acts. Hostile applications endanger critical airspace like above nuclear sites, official buildings and military institution. Countermeasures are an imminent require to ensure individual privacy, secure government institutions and track mini-drone misusers. However, effective anti-drone technologies are expensive and depends on the target drone characteristics and the protected area sensitivity.In this paper, we develop an RF-based countermeasure that is able to detect, identify and disrupt the communication link between the minidrone and its remote controller. The proposed solution is implemented in a Software Defined Radio (SDR) platform which enables adapting the countermeasure to future attacks and the drone market evolution in view of protecting a No Fly Zone such as airports, public events and military installations. We detail the conducted experiments and provide results proving the efficiency of the developed solution.
Ghana Ecological Risks: A Space Law and Science Education Approach to the Management Frameworks
Authors: NARTEY EMMANUEL
Published: August 2022

This article discusses what Ghana needs to do to progress its space programme to aid the development of legal and scientific education programmes for the management framework of biodiversity and the ecosystem. The first part of the article examines previous academic literature produced on this topic, which offers many clues about the challenges and opportunities facing Ghana, as well as the lessons that can be learned from both other space nations and actors in this field. When looking at perceptions, the second part explores material taken from ethically approved interviews which were conducted with experts in this field, whilst the third section provides an analysis of data taken from a survey in which respondents were asked targeted questions about Ghana’s space and science education programmes, before summarising the key findings. The findings help to better understand the effect of biodiversity and the ecosystem. Finally, it is recommended that future work is required in the areas of: preserving, sustaining and maintaining biodiversity and the ecosystem; management frameworks for invasive species and biosecurity; management frameworks for environmental degradation and climate change; a management framework that focuses on the fair and equitable access to and sharing of the benefits of biodiversity resources with all communities in Ghana; and assessing and including biodiversity and ecosystem in the development process of space law and science education.
CircRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis participates in the progression of bladder outlet obstruction
Authors: Zhu Baoyi , Gao Jun , Zhang Yuying , Liao Baojian , Zhu Sihua , Li Chunling , Liao Junhao , Liu Jianjia , Jiang Chonghe , Zeng Jianwen
Published: August 2022

Background More and more evidence showed that circRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis played a vital role in the pathogenesis of some diseases. However, the role of circRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis in bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) remains unknown. Our study aimed to explore the complex regulatory mechanism of circRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis in BOO. Methods The BOO rat model was established, and the bladder tissues were collected for mRNA sequencing. The differentially expressed mRNAs were analyzed by high-throughput sequencing, and the GO and KEGG analysis of the differentially expressed mRNAs were performed. Competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) analysis identified the potential regulation function of circRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis in BOO. qRT-PCR detected the expression of circRNA/miRNA/mRNA. miRanda software was performed to predict the relationship between circRNA and miRNA, miRNA and mRNA. Results Compared with the Sham group, a total of 571 mRNAs were differentially expressed in the BOO group, of which 286 were up-regulated and 285 were down-regulated. GO analysis showed that the mRNAs were mainly involved in cellular process, single-organism process, and cell, etc. KEGG analysis showed that the enriched signaling pathways were metabolic pathways, cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), and HTLV-I infection, etc. Based on the previous transcriptome data and differentially expressed circRNAs, we drew the ceRNA network regulation diagram. qRT-PCR results confirmed that chr3:113195876|113197193/rno-miR-30c-1-3p/Gata4, chr1:126188351|126195625/rno-miR-153-5p/Diaph3, and chr9:81258380|81275269/rno-miR-135b-5p/Pigr axis may have ceRNA function. miRanda confirmed there have the binding sites of circRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis. Conclusions circRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis was involved in the progression of BOO. Our research on the circRNA/miRNA/mRNA axis revealed new pathogenesis and treatment strategies for BOO.
Energy Communities Support Climate Policy in Exchange for Transition Assistance
Authors: Gazmararian Alexander F.
Published: August 2022

Decarbonization to mitigate climate change will require a reduction in fossil fuel consumption. The economic effects of moving away from fossil fuels motivates communities that produce coal, oil and gas to obstruct climate policy. How could climate policy be designed to win support for decarbonization in fossil fuel communities? Answering this question requires public opinion data from these crucial regions and measurement of multi-dimensional preferences, but national surveys often fail to recruit respondents from these areas and studies often focus on individual transition policy instruments. To overcome these limitations, we field surveys at Appalachian county fairs to access this hard-to reach population (N=249) and employ a conjoint experiment designed to elicit multi-dimensional preferences. We find that policies reducing transition costs, such as investments in worker healthcare and pensions and income compensation, increase support for transition assistance. In turn, respondents report willingness to back climate policy coupled with assistance for workers and community members. The findings suggest that smart policy design can build climate coalitions for decarbonization, even in the places most impacted by moving away from fossil fuels.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of choriocarcinoma in postmenopausal women
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Xi Liang , Zhang Taohong , Zhou Min , Zhang Pengchuang , Wang Guoqing , An Ruifang
Published: August 2022

Objective : Choriocarcinoma is a highly malignant epithelial tumor and primarily occurs in women of childbearing age, while it is extremely rare in postmenopausal women and only scattered cases have been reported worldwide. In addition, whether the prognosis scoring system for gestational trophoblastic neoplasm is suitable for postmenopausal women is still controversial and there is no consistent strategy for the treatment and management. Therefore, the aim of this study is to summarize and analyze the clinicopathologic features of choriocarcinoma in postmenopausal women to increase the awareness of this rare disease.Method : We retrieved the PubMed, Web of science, Embase, and CBM databases to search relevant published literatures, and then, the details of each patient's clinical and pathological characteristics were extracted and analyzed. Univariate log-rank tests were used to examine the association between clinicopathologic characteristics and progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival(OS).Results : 33 patients, according to the given inclusion and exclusion criteria, were included in this study. The patients originated from different continents, with 55% located in Asia and 27% in North America.The mean age of these patients was 59 years (range 48-74years) and the mean age at menopause was 49.7 years (from 39 to 57 years). The median interval from antecedent pregnancy to diagnosis was 22 years(5-42years). The mean time of the duration of menopause of patients recorded relevant information was 9 years(1-26years).The mean β-HCG titer was 235,644 mIU/mL. 22 patients presented with abnormal vaginal bleeding, 4 with lesion-related pain. The site of primary lesions distribution relatively broad, mainly in uterus and lung. 29 patients were classified as high-risk disease. 22 patients underwent curative surgery with or without chemotherapy, 11 patients received only chemotherapy, and most chemotherapy regimens were EMA-CO.Stage of disease was significantly associated with both PFS and OS (P=0.007;P=0.040).The median follow-up time was 21 months, with 2 cases recurred, 2 progressed, and 5 died. The tumor were positive for HCG, CK, HPL,PLAP and EMA.Conclusion : We observed that abnormal vaginal bleeding and lesion-related pain are the most common presenting features of postmenopausal choriocarcinoma. The patients often have metastatic lesions, high level serum β-HCG, and classified to high-risk disease when diagnosed. Moreover, the prognosis in those patients are worse than those in reproductive period. As in patients with choriocarcinoma of childbearing age, stage is still the main prognostic factor.
SiO2 aerogel multiscale reinforced by glass fibers and SiC nanowhiskers for thermal insulation
Authors: Wu Qiong , Yang Lixia , Chen Zhaofeng , Yang Mengmeng , Liu Tianlong , Li Manna , Mukhopadhyaya Phalguni
Published: August 2022

SiO2 aerogel attracts much interest as thermal insulation material due to ultra-low density and excellent thermal performance at room temperature. However, the poor mechanical property and a mass of heat transfer by radiation in high temperature limit application of aerogels. Herein, a novel aerogel composites multiscale reinforced by glass fibers with SiC nanowhiskers (SiCnw) (AFW) was prepared. SiCnw were evenly distributed in glass fibers felts by freezing-drying method to form a uniform multiscale felts. The SiCnw inside felts provided more contact point with aerogel to increase the interfacial adhesion force so that compressive stress of AFW with 4% volume fraction SiCnw was increased to 0.29MPa. SiCnw blocked infrared radiation to decrease the heat transfer. Therefore, Even though SiCnw raised thermal conductivity of aerogels at room temperature, thermal conductivity at 500℃ of AFW with was only 0.040 W/(m·K). In another word SiCnw reduced the sensitivity of thermal conductivity to temperature. AFW shows potential in the field of medium and high temperature insulation.
Histological and biochemical evaluation of plasma rich in growth factors treatment for grade II muscle injuries in sheep
Authors: García Daniel Aguilar , Fernández-Sarmiento J. Andrés , Machuca María del Mar Granados , Rodríguez Juan Morgaz , Rascón Pilar Muñoz , Calvo Rocío Navarrete , Ruiz Yolanda Millán , Poveda José María Carrillo , Castañeda Juan Muñoz , Bertomeu Ramón Cugat , Pérez Juan Manuel Domínguez
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this study was to perform a histological and biochemical evaluation of the influence of plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) on muscle regeneration process after a surgically induced grade II muscle laceration. A randomized, single blind, controlled experimental research was conducted including twenty-one adult healthy sheep, randomly divided in three groups (n = 7). A grade II surgical section was performed in the biceps femoris muscle of both hindlimbs. After two days (basal time), intralesional infiltration of autologous PRGF or Saline solution was randomly administered in both hindlimbs. Treatment was repeated once a week. Animal groups were euthanized at 1 (T1), 2 (T2) or 4 (T4) weeks. Histological assessment showed that PRGF intralesional injection induced a significant decrease of inflammatory cells density, significant higher centrally nucleated fibers percentage and significantly smaller fibrotic areas compared to Saline-treated muscles at T1, T2 and T4. Also, lower vascular density, with lower capillaries cross-sectional area, in PRGF group compared to Saline was observed. Biochemical analysis revealed a significant higher expression level ofMYOD1,MYF5andMYOGgenes in PRGF groups at T1 compared to Saline treated muscles. At ultrastructural level, PRGF groups presented scarce edema and loss of connective tissue structure, as well as higher mitochondrial density adequately associated to the sarcomere unit in contrast to the Saline group. In conclusion, histological, biochemical, and ultrastructural results showed that PRGF treatment improved muscle regeneration process leading to more mature histological aspect in newly formed muscle tissue after a surgically induced grade II muscle injury.
Arc controls alcohol cue relapse by a central amygdala mechanism
Authors: Radwanska Kasia , Pagano Roberto , Salamian Ahmad , Zielinski Janusz , Beroun Anna , Nalberczak-Skóra Maria , Skonieczna Edyta , Cały Anna , Tay Nicole , Banaschewski Tobias , Grigis Antoine , Garavan Hugh , Heinz Andreas , Brühl Rüdiger , Martinot Jean-Luc , Martinot Marie-Laure , Artiges Eric , Nees Frauke , Orfanos Dimitri Papadopoulos , Poustka Luise , Hohmann Sarah , Fröhner Juliane , Smolka Michael , Vaidya Nilakshi , Walter Henrik , Whelan Robert , Kalita Katarzyna , Bito Haruhiko , Mueller Christian , Schumann Gunter , Okuno Hiroyuki
Published: August 2022

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic and fatal disease. The main impediment of the AUD therapy is a high probability of relapse to alcohol abuse even after prolonged abstinence. The molecular mechanisms of cue-induced relapse are not well established, despite the fact that they may offer new targets for the treatment of AUD. Using a comprehensive animal model of AUD, virally-mediated and amygdala-targeted genetic manipulations by CRISPR/Cas9 technology and ex vivo electrophysiology, we identify a mechanism that selectively controls cue-induced alcohol relapse and AUD symptom severity. This mechanism is based on activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc)/ARG3.1-dependent plasticity of the amygdala synapses. In humans, we identified single nucleotide polymorphisms in the ARC gene and their methylation predicting not only amygdala size, but also frequency of alcohol use, even at the onset of regular consumption. Targeting Arc during alcohol cue exposure may thus be a selective new mechanism for relapse prevention.
The association mental health of adolescents with economic impact during the COVID-19 pandemic: A 2020 Korean nationally representative survey
Authors: Park Hanul , Lee Kang-Sook
Published: August 2022

Background
COVID-19 has affected innumerable lives across society, including in the spheres of education, economy, and religion. Economic problems and inequality are related to the poor mental health of adolescents. This study was to identify the relationship between the economic damage to families due to COVID-19 and various mental health problems for Korean adolescents, and evaluate the risk factors of mental health.
Methods
A total of 54,948 students were surveyed from 398 middle and 395 high schools. Complex sample logistic regressions were performed to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) and the 95% confidence interval (CI) of depression and suicidal ideation. Generalized linear model analysis were used to examine the association between mental health (unhappiness, lonely and stress) and economic impact of COVID-19. Theses analyses were adjusted for age, gender, school grade, perceived academic achievement, perceived family economic status, economic support.
Results
The ORs of depression (OR = 1.77, 95% CI : 1.57-2.00), suicide ideation (OR = 2.14, 95% CI : 1.84–2.50), unhappiness (OR = 1.51 95% CI 1.42–1.60) and lonely (OR = 1.38 95% CI 1.27–1.49) for the low level of perceived family economic status was higher compared to middle level. Adolescents who experienced economic deterioration at household as COVID-19 showed a higher risk of depression (OR = 1.42, 95% CI : 1.35–1.49), suicide ideation (OR = 1.36, 95% CI : 1.28–1.44), unhappiness (OR = 2.23 95% CI 2.19–2.27), lonely (OR = 1.20 95% CI 1.17–1.22), and stress (OR = 1.14 95% CI 1.12–1.16) than those who did not.
Conclusions
The findings revealed an association between the decline in household economic status due to COVID-19 and mental health problems such as stress, loneliness, suicidal ideation, depression, and unhappiness.
A stochastic modelling and optimization for the design of an LNG refuelling system in the Piraeus Port Region
Authors: Ntakolia Charis , Douloumpekis Michalis , Papaleonidas Christos , Tsiampa Violetta , Lyridis Dimitrios V.
Published: August 2022

Port activity is assumed to be an integral part of maritime activity. Ships are supplied with water, food, fuel, electricity, spare parts and consumables when they are berthed in Ports. Therefore, the purpose of the service system is to reduce the waiting cost, from the time the ship’s arrival until its service. Delays in the system, and particularly in the queuing system, could occur due to irregularities in the ships’ arrival time causing uncertainty in time of service. On the contrary, a complex waiting system would require an increased commitment of capital for the construction and maintenance of appropriate infrastructure. As such an optimum size and operation of the port service system must be identified. To address this problem, this study presents a method for maximizing port administrator’s profit, by modelling and optimizing the waiting system based on Monte Carlo simulation techniques. Port of Piraeus is used to test the method. The case study assumes increased bunkering port calls due to the addition of an LNG refuelling station. The results showed that a range of 3 to 5 stations generate high profit while using too many service stations could lead to deteriorations of the profit.
Oncogenic human papillomavirus infection (HPV 16/18) and associated factors among women in East Gojjam Zone, northwest Ethiopia 2021
Authors: getinet mamaru
Published: August 2022

Background
Human papillomavirus is a common pathogen that infects the skin and mucosal epithelium, is transmitted sexually; causes condylomas or squamous cell carcinomas. Two (16 and 18) of the 150 HPV serotypes are oncogenic types. Studies have been done on the infection by oncogenic human papillomavirus 16/18 and associated factors are found to be very limited in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of oncogenic human papillomavirus infection (HPV 16/18) and associated factors among women.
Methods
An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 337 women screened for cervical cancer in two hospitals in East Gojjam Zone from February to April 2021 G.C. Four BSc-qualified nurses who worked in the chosen hospitals collected the data using pretested questionnaire and an HPV test (OncoE6TM Cervical Test) specific to HPV16/18 in cervical swabs. Descriptive analysis was performed to determine the prevalence and a multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the associated factors of HPV16/18 infection. Finally, statistical significance was declared at P < 0.05.
Results
The prevalence of HPV infection was 14.2% (95% CI: 10.7% -18.1%). The mean age of the respondents was 36.7 ± 9.1 years. Women with the age group of 55–65 years (AOR = 7.91, 95% CI: 1.95–32.09), early initiation of sexual intercourse (AOR = 5.36, 95% CI: 1.58–18.13), history of sexually transmitted infection (STI) (AOR = 3.52, 95% CI: 1.27–9.72), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive status (AOR = 6.8, 95% CI: 1.99–23.54), and number of lifetime sexual partners (AOR = 4.37, 95% CI: 1.15–17.3) were important independent factors associated with the presence of oncogenic HPV infection.
Conclusion and Recommendation:
We found a relatively low prevalence of high-risk HPV infection. Age, early initiation of sexual intercourse at less than 18 years, STI of women, being HIV seropositive, and a number of sexual partners were important factors for high-risk HPV infection. Women aged > 46 years, women with early initiation of sex, a history of STI, being HIV positive, and a history of multiple sexual partners should be encouraged to be screened and vaccinated for HPV infection. Wider-ranging studies are also needed in HPV-infected women in association with the cervical lesion.
Local and Systemic Levels of IL-6 and IL-17 in Mechanically Ventilated Severe Pneumonia Patients
Authors: Wijaya I Putu Eka Krisnha , Pitoyo Ceva Wicaksono , Aditianingsih Dita , Shatri Hamzah , Nainggolan Leonard
Published: August 2022

Background: Pneumonia is a lung infection which is still a serious health problem worldwide. Intubation and mechanical ventilation are required in approximately 6% of patients that categorized as severe pneumonia. Furthermore, failed extubation was associated with increased mortality. The immunopathological process that occured in severe pneumonia is associated with increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-17. Further study was need to evaluate the role of local and systemic immune processes through examination of cytokines levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and blood and its correlation to adverse outcome of severe pneumonia. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the differences of IL-6, IL-7 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and blood of severe pneumonia patients based on extubation and mortality status.Methods: This study was a prospective cohort in severe pneumonia patients who were intubated in Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital from November 2020 to January 2021. Bivariate analysis using the Mann Whitney test was used on abnormally distributed data. Study subjects were observed for successful extubation of 20 days and mortality of 28 days.Results: In this study, the failed extubation rate was 80% and the mortality rate was 75%. There were no statistically significant difference between IL-6, IL-17 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and blood based on extubation status. There were also no statistically significant difference between IL-6, IL-17 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and blood based on mortality status. Conclusions: IL-6 and IL-17 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage and blood were not statistically different in the group of patients who failed to extubate and successfully extubated, and in those who deceased and those who lived.
Local and trans-oceanic tsunamis in the Bering and Chukchi seas based on numerical modeling
Authors: Medvedeva Alisa , Medvedev Igor , Fine Isaac , Kulikov Evgueni , Yakovenko Olga
Published: August 2022

We have examined the tsunami risk in the Bering and Chukchi seas by determining whether trans-oceanic tsunamis penetrate into these regions through the Aleutian Islands and Bering Strait. Results are based on numerical modeling of eight major far-field earthquakes in the North Pacific Ocean and one near-field earthquake that occurred in the Bering Sea region: the 1946 Aleutian, 1952 Kamchatka, 1960 Chile, 1964 Alaska, 1965 Rat Islands, 1957 Andreanof Islands, 2011 Tohoku, 2012 Haida Gwaii, and 2017 Commander Islands earthquakes. It was found that the most powerful event to impact the Bering Sea was the 1960 tsunami generated by the Mw 9.5 Chilean earthquake. According to our numerical simulations, the 1960 earthquake produced tsunami waves with amplitudes up to 192 cm in the sea, while for the next strongest event, the 1952 Kamchatka tsunami, the wave amplitudes were up to 177 cm. The 1964 Great Alaska earthquake (Mw 9.2) did not produce an intense tsunami in the Bering Sea because the lone and narrow southwestern extension of the Alaska Peninsula sheltered the region from incoming tsunami waves. Modeling further shows that, in separate bays, tsunami waves formed by strong distant earthquakes could reach 1‒1.5 m. Results show that the typical attenuation coefficient for the straits of the Aleutian Islands is 0.75, on average, while the corresponding coefficient upon transition from the Bering Sea to the Chukchi Sea through the Bering Strait is ~ 0.25. Based on these estimates, we conclude that tsunami penetration into the Arctic Ocean from remote sources in the Pacific is unlikely. Even for such powerful events as the 1960 Chilean tsunami, the tsunami wave amplitudes in the Chukchi Sea would not exceed a few centimeters.
Using Natural Language Processing to Extract Intelligence for Public Health Crises
Authors: Wang Ye , Willis Erin , Yeruva Vijaya , Ho Duy , Lee Yugyung
Published: August 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is an awakening call for public health agencies. Digital technologies create a decentralized information environment in which public health agencies must compete for audience attention and win their trust. Trust is a result of inclusiveness of all stakeholders, mutual understanding, and recognition of different perspectives. Thereby, public health agencies should apply two-way communication and cognitive empathy, by listening to local communities. Technology advancement in Artificial Intelligence has made it possible to “listen” to many stakeholders on social media. This study urges a focus on listening at local levels, for example, cities, given the abundance of geo-marked data, and the importance of community-level operations to manage public health crises.Methods: The case study presented combined AI methods with textual analysis and examined 180,128 tweets posted by four cities with large populations of people of color. Results: The findings discovered sentiment around “COVID Vaccines,” “Politics,” “Mitigation Measures,” and “Community/Local Issues” and critical moments of emotional changes.Conclusions: Our major contribution is to explain the motivation and the methods of extracting intelligence for the purpose of enhancing public trust in health agencies during crises.