bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ways of energy saving during thermal and chemicalthermal treatment of steel due to acceleration of diffusion processes
Authors: Konstantinov V. M. , Kukareko V. A.
Published: December 2023

Some technical and economically effective ways of energy saving in the processes of thermal and chemical‑thermal treatment of steels are analyzed. A classification of ways to save energy by activating structural‑phase transformations in steels is proposed. The results of work on accelerating diffusion processes in steels during thermal improvement, thermal cycling treatment, thermal diffusion galvanizing, nitriding and carburization are summarized. A high potential for energy saving and increased productivity by reducing the time of thermal and chemical‑thermal treatment was noted.
Plasma spraying of Al2O3‑Al composite coatings
Authors: Rafalski I. V. , Rulenkov A. D. , Devoino O. G.
Published: December 2023

The article presents the results of modeling and analysis of thermal processes during plasma spraying of Al2O3–Al composite coatings. Modeling was carried out for composite particles with spherical symmetry, taking into account the influence of phase transitions during the melting and evaporation of dissimilar materials in the aluminum‑aluminum oxide system and various particle sizes based on a mathematical model of non‑stationary thermal conductivity, taking into account internal heat sources during phase transitions. The results of studies of the microstructure of composite coatings after plasma spraying of Al2O3–Al based powders, synthesized during metallurgical processing of aluminum matrix quartz‑containing compositions, are presented.
Riserless Intervention on Deepwater Gulf of Mexico Well increases contributing interval length by 10-fold
Authors: Hosein W. , Vick M. , Quy T. , Dada M. , Sierra J. , Cubides J.
Published: December 2023

Well X is an oil producer in the Mississippi Canyon of the Gulf of Mexico. The well was originally designed as a smart downhole flow control (DHFC) completion that allowed split flow between two cased-hole frac-pack (CHFP) sand control completions. Unfortunately, the DHFC system failed, and the well must be produced with commingled flow from both zones. Over time the well's skin (frictional pressure loss across the completion screens) has increased to a point where the well's production rate needed to be reduced to limit erosion and maintain integrity of the completion. Well X receives pressure support from a downdip injector which has led to seawater production and introduced the risk of barium-sulfate scale. The well's previous scale prevention treatment expired at the end of 2022. The scope of the Riserless Light Well Intervention (RLWI) was to remediate skin and refresh the scale prevention treatment in both zones.

The intervention required right scoping the well control and ancillary equipment to enable successful pumping and wireline operations on a sub-ambient well under elevated subsea and surface metocean conditions. Additionally, surveillance was necessary to assess damage and allocate contributions from each zone. Individual isolation of both zones was required for acid stimulation and scale treatment. Achieving this involved either setting plugs or installing isolation sleeves across the failed flow control device.

Based on production logs, it was observed that the contributing interval of the lower zone had been reduced to about 10 ft despite having 110 ft of perforations. To address this, an acid stimulation with use of diverter pills was carried out on the lower zone which resulted in an increase in the contributing height to the full 110 ft, marking a greater than 10-fold increase. Furthermore, successful scale prevention treatments were administered to both zones to prevent barium sulfate scale deposition. Throughout the intervention, all wireline operations were carried out effectively under sub-ambient conditions without any hydrate problems, loss of well control, or seawater ingress.

Acid stimulation bullheaded from surface aided in successfully treating non-contributing intervals with the use of diverter pills. The use of the collapse rated hoses along with other well control package modifications have enabled access to other sub-ambient wellwork in this field.
Raising Frac Limits: The Stress Caging Approach
Authors: Khan Anum Yousuf , Rasheed Hassaan , Mahmood Ahmad Abdullah , Salazar Jose , Noor Sameer Mustafa , Nazir Irfan
Published: December 2023

The Dilemma of Limestone Formations is their temperamental nature. The same conductivity that threatens with Loss also promises production and at the same time deceives log outputs. Presence of conductive fractures is characteristic of these carbonates and even if the operator does drill past these thief zones via controlled drilling ECDs and LCM loaded systems, the hazard is never eliminated. One of the poorest timing for this menacing loss to resurface is during cementing of these reservoir carbonate sections, when ECDs tend to rise as soon as the cement slurry dares rise above the loss zone. Conventional LCMs are not the candidate for formation strengthening and cementing every loss zone can be rather tiresome for the drilling time-depth curves, not to forget damaging to the reservoirs. So, the approach to case these conductive carbonates while maintaining their conductivity remains a work in progress for the cementing technical community. This paper suggests not to merely drill through or fight against the loss but to mould the formation properties to operator's requirements. The stress caging technique may be one of the key puzzle elements to strengthen fractured limestones and their successful cementing.
Global partnerships in transformation of nursing and midwifery education in Africa: A systematic scoping review protocol
Authors: Muraraneza Claudine , Mukamana Donatilla , Katende Godfrey , Bazirete Oliva , Wolvaardt Liz
Published: December 2023

Background
In recent decades, the literature on global partnerships in nursing and midwifery education, for the purpose of enhancing quality of education, strengthening health care system, and achieving universal health coverage is on the rise in Africa. However, there is a gap regarding the best practices and barriers in the African context. The purpose of this systematic scoping review is to map the evidence on global partnerships in transforming nursing and midwifery education in Africa.
Methods
A search will be conducted with the use of the following electronic databases: Cumulative Index to Nursing and Applied Health Literature [CINAHL], PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. Grey literature will be searched via the World Health Organization’s website to locate relevant policies and guidelines. The search will be limited to work published in English from July 2013 to June 2023. All located resources will be exported to Endnote X8. All duplicates will be removed during when the abstracts are screened. Two independent reviewers will screen and extract the full text of the selected articles. Thematic analysis will be used to analyze data from this systematic scoping review.
Discussion:
Mapping the evidence on global partnerships in transforming nursing and midwifery education in Africa will outline the best practices and preferences for sustainable collaboration. The review will also highlight knowledge gaps and limitations that could inform for future research projects.
Registration: https://osf.io/h83cy
Node Prioritization and Dynamic Slot Allocation for Emergency Event Communication in Wbans
Authors: Jose Annie , A Tibbie Pon Symon V
Published: December 2023

A leap in the field of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) made the application of this technology widely acceptable for the design of IoT based remote health care devices. Wireless Body Area Networks (WBANs) are one of them that increasingly leveraging these technologies. WBANs incorporate in body or on body sensor nodes located at different points of the body of the stakeholder to monitor and transmit real-time physiological parameters for remote monitoring. The normal and on demand traffic of such devices are well addressed with various MAC protocols. But the emergency event data communication is spontaneously initiated by the corresponding sensor node and this inadvertent activity can lead to packet collision and data loss, which in turn can lead to life threatening situations. This data loss demands for data retransmission and results in more energy consumption at nodes reducing its lifespan. In this paper a novel Dynamic Node Prioritization (DNP) algorithm is proposed to minimize data collision and data loss and thereby reduced energy consumption. The algorithm prioritizes each node based on the nature of the physiological parameter monitored and regularly re-rank the nodes by analysing the emergency event happening at each node. The scheme also proposes a secondary node concept that can improve the clinical condition analysis. The time slot for emergency event communication is dynamically allocated each time an emergency event is reported by sensor node. The dynamic allocation of time slots for high priority nodes improves the system efficiency and thereby guarantee better emergency event data transfer than the existing systems. The performance of the proposed algorithm is measured and analysed in terms of energy efficiency and latency in the normal, on-demand and emergency events.
The Spatial-Temporal Variability of Chlorophyll-a across the Eastern Indonesian Seas Region Using Sentinel-3 OLCI
Authors: Handoko Eko Yuli , Syariz Muhammad Aldila , Hayati Noorlaila , Putri Megivareza , Muryono Mukhammad , Kuo Chung-Yen
Published: December 2023

The Eastern Indonesian Seas are among the most biodiverse maritime habitats. Changing chlorophyll-a concentrations affects primary productivity, and ecological changes. Monitoring chlorophyll levels is crucial for ocean health and nutrient availability. High-resolution ocean color data from the Sentinel-3 Ocean and Land Color Instrument allows for global chlorophyll monitoring. This study analyzes how monsoon activity affects chlorophyll distribution in eastern Indonesian oceans. Monthly Chlorophyll-a Concentration Retrieval with Sentinel-3 Ocean and Land Color Instrument Imageries was utilized to study the Eastern Indonesian Seas region from 2016-2021. The Case-2 Regional Coast Color processor, a neural network-based algorithm, was applied to all images for atmospheric correction processing and for ocean color products’ extraction. The distribution of chlorophyll-a in the eastern region of Indonesia varies significantly, with average concentrations ranging from 0.09 to 0.45 mg/m3 in the Banda Sea, Arafura Sea, Flores Sea, and Timor Sea. The Asian-Australian Monsoon System significantly impacts these patterns, with chlorophyll-a levels increasing during the Southeast Monsoon and decreasing during the Northwest Monsoon, particularly in areas with annual upwelling events.
The enemy of my enemy... Exotic mammals present biotic resistance against invasive alien conifers
Authors: Carlin Thomas Frank , Paul Thomas S. H. , Dudenhoeffer Jan H , Rolando Carol , Novoselov Max , Vorster Ryan S , Springford Casey R , Scott Matthew B
Published: December 2023

Plant invasions are a widespread and recurring phenomenon that cause significant economic and environmental damage. Invasive alien conifers are weeds that are not only costly to manage, but consistently reinvade after management efforts. Understanding how many seeds survive to germinate is a key part in understanding the weed life cycle puzzle. Here we investigated the contribution that seed predators have on reducing invasive alien conifer seed survival across both invaded and uninvaded habitats in Aotearoa New Zealand. We combined quantitative and qualitative experiments to measure seed predation across invaded and uninvaded habitats, as well as to identify which fauna are the most prolific seed predators. We utilised ex-situ empirical evidence with in-situ observations to provide realistic impacts from different seed predator species. We found that introduced mammals, particularly rodents, were the primary seed predators of invasive conifers. Seed predation pressure was highest in herbicide treated invasive alien conifer forests, indigenous beech forests, and managed pasture containing grazing livestock. Indigenous tussock areas support fewer vertebrate seed predators and as a result are particularly vulnerable to conifer invasion. The majority of seed predation occurs within the first two weeks post-dispersal. These results suggest that introduced mammal control operations, which are essential to protect endemic New Zealand species, will likely result in increasing invasive conifer populations by reducing seed predation pressure. Seed predation varies greatly between habitats, suggesting invasion and reinvasion rates are higher in ungrazed areas of lower forest density that support fewer introduced mammals.
Prevalence and demographic profile of keratoconus among high school students in Kenya
Authors: Rashid Zahra Aly , Moodley Vanessa Raquel , Mashige Khathutshelo Percy
Published: December 2023

Background To determine the prevalence and demographic profile of keratoconus (KC) among high school students in Nairobi County, Kenya. Methods In this population-based, prospective, cross-sectional study, multistage cluster sampling was used to select the participants. All students underwent visual acuity measurement, auto-refraction, retinoscopy and corneal topography. Students with corneal topography patterns suspicious of KC were referred for corneal tomography. Results A total of 3 051 students from 29 schools, with a mean age of 17.4 ± 1.6 years (range: 13–25 years) were screened. The prevalence of KC was 1.7% (n = 51) (95% CI, 1.2–2.2) and of KC suspects was 3.8% (n = 117) (95% CI, 3.2–4.6). There were no significant associations between the prevalence of KC and gender, age or ethnicity (allp > 0.05). In the KC group, 88.2% (n = 45) were unaware of their condition, 52.9% (n = 27) were treated for allergic conjunctivitis, 45.1% (n = 23) required spectacles, 11.8% (n = 6) were recommended contact lenses in at least one eye and 49.0% (n = 25) were recommended corneal cross-linking. Conclusions
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards seasonal influenza and influenza vaccine among adults with chronic diseases in the Kyrgyz Republic: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Akmatova Rakhat , Dzhalimbekova Altynay , Ebama Malembe Sandrine , Otorbaeva Dinagul
Published: December 2023

Background
Influenza is an acute viral respiratory disease of major global health concern with potential to trigger future pandemics. Annual influenza vaccination is the most effective strategy to prevent seasonal influenza, however, understanding the motivators and barriers to vaccine uptake is important to define strategies that sustain national influenza immunization programs. This present study aims to understand key motivators and barriers to vaccine uptake among patients with underlying diseases in the Kyrgyz Republic.
Method
A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2018 to March 2019 in patients with chronic conditions attending public health facilities in all regions of the Kyrgyz Republic. A total of 1200 participants aged 18 to 92 years old having at least one underlying disease were recruited. Descriptive analysis was used to determine the association between variables and outcomes of interests.
Results
Among 1118 participants enrolled in this study, more than half (63.2%) were vaccinated against influenza in the previous year. In the multivariate analysis, respondents with university degrees and divorced marital status had a significantly greater intention for vaccination (p < 0.02 and p < 0.03, respectively). Residences in the North (p = 0.003) and Osh city (p < 0.001) were associated with higher intention of vaccination. Only 42.1% of interviewees stated knowing that the influenza vaccine did not cause influenza infection (p < 0.000). Nearly half of the respondents (44.5%) indicated not having received a recommendation for influenza vaccine by a healthcare professional in the previous year.
Conclusion
Our study revealed higher intent to receive vaccine and previous year vaccine uptake was associated with level of educational attainment and marital status. Main barriers of vaccine uptake were lack of awareness of influenza vaccine effectiveness, fear of harmful effect from influenza vaccines, and bad experiences from vaccination among family members. These findings underline the value of understanding sociodemographic context when developing targeted messaging to encourage influenza vaccine uptake.
Sex differences in the effects of individual anxiety state on regional responses to negative emotional scenes
Authors: Chaudhary Shefali , Wong Hak Kei , Chen Yu , Zhang Sheng , Li Chiang-Shan R.
Published: December 2023

BackgroundMen and women are known to show differences in the incidence and clinical manifestations of mood and anxiety disorders. Many imaging studies have investigated the neural correlates of sex differences in emotion processing. However, it remains unclear how anxiety might impact emotion processing differently in men and women.MethodWe recruited 119 healthy adults and assessed their levels of anxiety using State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) State score. With functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we examined regional responses to negative vs. neutral (Neg-Neu) picture matching in the Hariri task. Behavioral data were analyzed using regression and repeated-measures analysis of covariance with age as a covariate, and fMRI data were analyzed using a full-factorial model with sex as a factor and age as a covariate.ResultsMen and women did not differ in STAI score, or accuracy rate or reaction time (RT) (Neg-Neu). However, STAI scores correlated positively with RT (Neg-Neu) in women but not in men. Additionally, in women, STAI score correlated positively with lingual gyrus (LG) and negatively with medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and superior frontal gyrus (SFG) activity during Neg vs. Neu trials. The parameter estimates (β’s) of mPFC also correlated with RT (Neg-Neu) in women but not in men. Generalized psychophysiological interaction (gPPI) analysis in women revealed mPFC connectivity with the right inferior frontal gyrus, right SFG, and left parahippocampal gyrus during Neg vs. Neu trials in positive correlation with both STAI score and RT (Neg-Neu). In a mediation analysis, mPFC gPPI but not mPFC activity fully mediated the association between STAI scores and RT (Neg-Neu).ConclusionWith anxiety affecting the behavioral and neural responses to negative emotions in women but not in men and considering the known roles of the mPFC in emotion regulation, we discussed heightened sensitivity and regulatory demands during negative emotion processing as neurobehavioral markers of anxiety in women.
Quantitative Risk Assessment of a Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers based Hydrogen Refueling Station
Authors: Chae Hye-Jin , Gye Hye-Ri , Lee Joo-Sung , Esmaeili Arash , Lee Ga-Young , Yoon Taeksang , Lee Chul-Jin
Published: December 2023

The demand for hydrogen, a carbon-neutral fuel, is expected to increase in the coming decades. However, the current storage efficiency of gaseous hydrogen is poor. Liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHC), which store hydrogen in liquid form under ambient conditions, show promise for on-site hydrogen refueling stations. Toluene-methylcyclohexane is one of LOHC, it has advantages cost-effect and environmentally to large-scale hydrogen transportation, but it should be evaluated risk assessment based on the chemicals, because there is inherent harm from the properties like toxicity or flammability. Herein, quantitative risk assessment (QRA) results worst-case scenarios, individual risk (IR), and societal risk (SR) for a Methylcyclohexane-based on-site hydrogen refueling station (MHRS) are compared with those a gaseous hydrogen refueling stations (GHRS). The latter is more likely to have explosion-related accidents while the former is more likely to have had fire-related accidents. Both show similarly high societal risks. The rupture of the MCH storage tank poses the most significant risk, but installing a dike reduces by 86%, thereby placing it within acceptable limits. Thus, the key risk factors for future on-site hydrogen refueling stations are identified and insights into mitigating them is offered.
Roles of caregiver-child interaction on the association of socioeconomic status with early childhood development among children aged 0-6 years in a rural county in Central China
Authors: Chang Rui , Li Chunan , Wei Mengna , Jiang Yanfen , Zhang Jianduan
Published: December 2023

Objective
Socioeconomic status (SES) has been previously associated with children’s early development, health, and nutrition; however, evidence about the potential role of caregiver-child interaction in such associations was limited. This study aimed to explore the effect of caregiver-child interaction on the associations of SES with child developmental outcomes, including early neurodevelopment and social-emotional behavior.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 2078 children aged 0–6 in a rural county that just lifted out of poverty in 2020 in Central China. The Ages & Stages Questionnaires-Chinese version (ASQ-C) and the Social-Emotional (ASQ: SE) questionnaire were used to assess children's early neurodevelopment and social-emotional behavior, respectively. Caregiver-child interaction was evaluated with the Brigance Parent-Child Interactions Scale. Regression-based statistical mediation and moderation effect were conducted with the PROCESS macro of SPSS.
Results
Children with low SES had an increased risk of suspected neurodevelopmental delay [OR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.50, 2.44] and social-emotional developmental delay [OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.66]. The caregiver-child interaction partially mediated the associations of SES with child developmental outcomes; the proportion of the indirect effect was 14.9% for ASQ-C total score and 32.1% for ASQ: SE score. Moreover, the caregiver-child interaction had a significant moderation effect on the association of SES with ASQ-C total score (P＜0.05). A weaker association was observed in children with high-level caregiver-child interaction than in medium and low ones. Similar moderating effects were found among boys but not girls.
Conclusion
Caregiver-child interaction plays a vital role in the relationship between SES and child development. Children with low SES households will benefit more in terms of their early development from intervention programs strengthening caregiver-child interaction.
Optimizing Drought Prediction with LSTM and SPEI: A Two-Tier Ensemble Framework with Meta-Learner and Weighted Sum Fusion
Authors: Gaurihar Mahima , Paonikar Kaustubh , Dongre Snehalata , Khobragade Prashant , Agrawal Rahul , Saraf Pranay
Published: December 2023

Climate-induced water scarcity, especially in regions prone to gradual drought onset, poses a significant hurdle in effective water resource management. In this study, advanced data science techniques are harnessed, focusing on Latur as a region susceptible to prolonged dry spells. Latur, situated in the drought-prone Marathwada region, struggles with erratic rainfall and severe water stress, impacting both agricultural activities and daily necessities. Escalating temperatures intensifies water loss, heightening the risks of drought due to climate change. By leveraging time series data encompassing crucial environmental parameters such as rainfall and temperature, an improved model is developed for precise detection and visualization of droughts. Our approach combines Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) layers with the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), employing a multi-model ensemble framework that's further enhanced with meta-learning and weighted ensemble techniques. This innovative model not only showcases a notable enhancement in accuracy compared to conventional LSTM models but also exhibits adaptability and robustness across a wide range of datasets. The incorporation of SPEI serves to fine-tune the assessment of drought conditions. Selected data from the timeline spanning 1980 to 2022, with monthly timestamps, aligns with the specific characteristics of Latur's climate and serves as the basis for our approach. This project introduces a novel approach for drought forecasting, leveraging a Meta-Learning Ensemble model that synergistically combines various machine learning algorithms, including Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, and Neural Networks, to deliver highly accurate and actionable predictions. The ensemble approach not only capitalizes on the strengths of individual models but also significantly reduces the potential errors, offering a robust and reliable forecasting system. The system is particularly designed for researchers, policymakers, and farmers who need precise and timely information to make informed decisions. Predictive metrics are rigorously evaluated using statistical measures such as Mean Absolute Error and R-Squared, ensuring the highest level of accuracy. The model outputs are not just statistical metrics but actionable insights, allowing for pre-emptive measures to mitigate the adverse effects of drought. This advanced forecasting system serves as a groundbreaking contribution to climate science and natural disaster management.
MSC Codes - 68T01, 68T07
JEL Codes - C32
Prediction of Weld Bead Geometry of AA5083 Using Taguchi Technique: in the Presence of Siliconized Zn-Graphene Oxide Complex Nanoparticles
Authors: Rahmati Farhad , Kolahan Farhad , Aghakhani Masood
Published: December 2023

The fact that the weld geometry is vital in the cooling rate and determining the weld metal quality is obvious to all. So, the Taguchi technique was used to determine the process parameters of gas metal arc welding to access optimal weld bead geometry. In addition, this study investigated the effect of siliconized Zn-graphene oxide complex nanoparticles as one of the input parameters on the weld bead geometry, including the penetration depth, bead height, and bead width of the weld. Hence, the S/N and ANOVA statistical analyses were done to establish the relationship between the gas metal arc welding process's input parameters and output variables to achieve the weld bead with the highest penetration depth and the lowest bead height and width. The results showed that in the L00 sample compared to the L0 sample (sample without nanoparticles), in addition to having a very high penetration depth, the ultimate tensile strength, and yield strength have increased by 58.84% and 28.24%, respectively.
Individualized Supportive Care for Women with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Addressing Preferences and Providing Personalized Support
Authors: Chiba Satomi , Athurupana Rukmali , Yang Titi , Liu Siyu , Yokomizo Akemi , Nakatsuka Mikiya
Published: December 2023

Background: Women who have miscarriages/stillbirths are likely to have anxiety, depression, grief and stigma. Supportive care (SC) is important to ease the above conditions of women with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). However, the specific contents of SC preferred by women with RPL, and their satisfaction level with what they have experienced is poorly understood.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on women who visited outpatient clinics at two hospitals in Japan from June to September 2019. Awareness of SC, preferences, experience, and the level of satisfaction regarding 26 supportive care options, the number of doctors consulted and the frequency of ultrasound examinations were assessed.
Results: Responses from 142 participants were analyzed,and less than 10.0% of them were aware of SC. Women with RPL preferred their husbands (99.3%) and mothers (44.8%) as their primary sources of support. The majority preferred to consult with one doctor (43%) and have a weekly ultrasound examination (54.9%). Doctors (85.9%) and nurses (82.4%) were the preferred medical staff. Six categories of supportive care were identified, with preference rates of 60.0% or higher, but the experience rates were 47.0% or lower. Women who had experienced more than four miscarriages/stillbirths showed significant associations with preferences related to ‘information, education, and planning’ , ‘emotional support and psychological care’ and ‘sensitivity and empathy’ categories.
Conclusion: Preferences for SC ranged widely among women with RPL, and the majority preferred a care plan incorporating emotional support, psychological care, sensitivity and empathy involving one doctor with an ultrasound examination performed once a week.The study emphasizes the importance of tailor-made care, addressing the specific needs and preferences of each individual rather than providing routine care.
Parameter estimation for second-order SPDEs in multiple space dimensions
Authors: Bossert Patrick
Published: December 2023

We analyse a second-order SPDE model in multiple space dimensions and develop estimators for the parameters of this model based on discrete observations of a solution in time and space on a bounded domain. While parameter estimation for one and two spatial dimensions was established in recent literature, this is the first work which generalizes the theory to a general, multi-dimensional framework.Our approach builds upon realized volatilities, enabling the construction of an oracle estimator for volatility within the underlying model. Furthermore, we show that the realized volatilities have an asymptotic illustration as response of a log-linear model with spatial explanatory variable. This yields novel and efficient estimators based on realized volatilities with optimal rates of convergence and minimal variances. For proving central limit theorems, we use a high-frequency observation scheme. To showcase our results, we conduct a Monte Carlo simulation.
MSC Classification: 62F12, 62M10, 60H15
Feasibility of Verification and Evaluation on Optical Devices by 3D Printing Technology
Authors: Yeh Chia-Hung , Lin Heng-Yi
Published: December 2023

The intricate structural design of products within the optoelectronics industry plays a crucial role in achieving optimal optical outcomes. Consequently, the demand for precision plastic optical components has seen a notable rise in recent years. While injection molding technology remains the predominant method for fabricating plastic optical components, the market is currently trending towards features such as small-batch and diversified production, a streamlined development process, reduced costs, and swift delivery. This shift has prompted the industry to progressively move towards customization. Nevertheless, the conventional production model faces challenges related to production flow, mold cost assessments, expenses associated with hiring skilled professionals, and even a scarcity of talent. These challenges, in turn, have constrained the development of relevant industries. Against this backdrop, it is imperative to explore potential solutions that can swiftly replace traditional manufacturing processes in order to address these issues. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of a headlight lens manufactured using a 3D printing process, incorporating a quality control (QC) inspection methodology. As a basis for comparison, we also employed a traditional manufacturing approach, utilizing CNC machining and reverse engineering. Diverse measurement techniques were applied, encompassing Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), Computer Aided Verification (CAV), White Light Interferometry (WLI), and Integrating Sphere, to analyze the radius of curvature, surface roughness, and transmittance of the headlight lens surface profile. These techniques were employed to validate the gathered data. The study results indicate that the lens products manufactured through 3D printing exhibit remarkable precision, with only a 0.558% margin of error regarding the radius of curvature of the profile, a surface roughness (Ra value) of 0.020175 µm, and a transmittance of 92.537%. One of the key advantages of the 3D printing process is its ability to efficiently realize complex structural designs at high speed and low cost. In cases where customization is required, 3D printing unquestionably outperforms conventional manufacturing methods. In this study, we have effectively addressed the issue of response time in traditional manufacturing processes by implementing rapid verification to accommodate various environmental demands.
What advances monsoon onset over India?
Authors: Goswami Bidyut , Muller Caroline
Published: December 2023

In the monsoon regions, atmospheric convection is typically stronger over the oceans than over land. Rainfall over land is potentially affected by the dynamic response of the atmosphere to deep convection over the adjacent oceans. Here, we show, in the case of the Indian summer monsoon, that enhanced atmospheric deep convection over the Bay of Bengal ∼2 weeks before onset, advances monsoon onset over India. Since the sea surface temperature of the Bay of Bengal is already hot during spring, warm anomalies further enhance convection that drives a convergence of low-level winds. A part of this circulation response blows from central India to the Bay of Bengal. It paves the way for monsoon circulation over India and advances the onset of monsoon. We tested this hypothesis using an atmospheric model forcing it by warm sea surface temperature anomalies over the Bay of Bengal 10-15 days before monsoon onset.
A high-density linkage map and sex-determination loci in Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Garcia Baltasar Fernandes , Mastrochirico-Filho Vito Antonio , Gallardo-Hidalgo Jousepth , Campos-Montes Gabriel Ricardo , Medrano-Mendoza Thania , Caballero-Zamora Alejandra , Hashimoto Diogo Teruo , Yánez José Manuel
Published: December 2023

Background Expansion of genomic resources for the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) such as the construction of dense genetic linkage maps, is crucial for the application of genomic tools to improve economic relevant traits. Sexual dimorphism exists in Pacific white shrimp, and mapping of the sex determination region in this species may help in the future reproductive applications for this species. We constructed male, female and sex-averaged high-density genetic maps using a 50K single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array followed by a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify genomic regions associated to sex in white shrimp.Results The genetic map yielded 15,256 SNPs assigned to 44 linkage groups (LG). The length of the male, female and sex-averaged maps were 5,741.36, 5,461.20 and 5,525.26 cM, respectively. The LG18 was the largest for both sexes while the LG44 was the shortest for males and LG31 for females. A sex determination region was found on LG31 with 21 statistically significant SNPs. The most important SNP was previously identified as a sex-linked marker and it was able to identify 99% of males and 88% of females. Although, the other significant markers had lower ability to determine sex, putative genes were found intercepted or close to them. The oplophorus-luciferin 2-monooxygenase, serine/arginine repetitive matrix protein and spermine oxidase genes were identified as candidate with possible participation in important processes of sexual differentiation in shrimp.Conclusions Our results provided novel genomic resources for shrimp, including a high-density linkage map and new insights regarding the sex determining region in L. vannamei, and may be both useful in future genetics and reproduction applications.
Effects of combination of Cryptococcus neoformans and IFN-γ, IL-4 or IL-27 on human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Neto João Batista Camargo , Cunha Maiara Medeiros , Santos Wanessa Maria dos , Silva Paulo Roberto da , Andrade-Silva Leonardo , Silva-Vergara Mário León , Rogerio Alexandre Paula
Published: December 2023

The innate immune response and cytokine milieu in the airway mucosa triggered by bronchial epithelial cells are crucial for the establishment or protection of cryptococcosis. In experimental cryptococcosis, Th2 immune response is associated with host susceptibility, while Th1 cells are associated with protection. Additionally, lack of IL-27 receptor alpha increases the Cryptococcus neoformans burden in the lung. Here, we evaluated the effects in vitro of the IL-4, IFN-γ or IL-27 and C. neoformans combination on human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B). BEAS-2B were stimulated with IL-4, IFN-γ or IL-27 (100  ng/mL) and/or live yeast forms of C. neoformans (multiplicities of infection (MOI) of 1-100). After 24h of infection, IL-6, CCL2 and IL-8 productions and STAT1 and STAT6 phosphorylations were evaluated. We found that cells stimulated with all cytokines (IL-4, IFN-γ or IL-27) followed by C. neoformans infection (MOI of 100) caused a reduction in IL-6 and/or CCL2 production and in STAT6 (induced by IL-4) and STAT1 (induced by IL-27 or IFN-γ) activation when compared to cells stimulated only with C. neoformans, IL-4, IFN-γ or IL-27. In vitro phagocytosis assay showed that the IL-27 and C. neoformans combination decreased the internalized fungus rate, while IL-4 and IFN-γ with C. neoformans favored fungus internalization. Association of C. neoformans with either of these cytokines promoted a higher fungal growth. Our data demonstrate that live yeast forms of C. neoformans with IL-4, IFN-γ or IL-27 induced an anti-inflammatory effect and may lead to a susceptible fungal growth environment in airway epithelium.
A novel validated RP-UPLC for the simultaneous estimation of Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate, Cobicistat and Elvitegravir in tablet dosage form
Authors: Vemireddy Swapna , Kumaraswamy Gandla
Published: December 2023

The present study provides us a single analytical tool for the determination of elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate in dosage forms. This method helps us to separate and detect the four active pharmaceutical ingredients in a single run. The objective is to develop and validate a simple Ultraphase liquid chromatography method for the simultaneous determination of emtricitabine, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, elvitegravir and cobicistat in dosage tablets. For this method, an Agilent 1200, high performance liquid chromatography system, Acquity Ethylene Bridged Hybrid technology (BEH) C18, 1.7μ. 100 x 2.1 mm column was used. The gradient program was adjusted at 0.3 ml/min flow rate and 10 μl injection volumes were maintained. Detection wavelength of 260 nnm is found to specific and could able to provide precise area counts for each drug. Calibration curves depicting a proper linearity response from concentration versus area observed for each drug with correlation coefficients of greater than 0.99. The eluted compounds were monitored at 240 nm. The column oven temperature was maintained at 30°. The developed chromatographic method was validated for selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy, sensitivity, robustness, and system suitability.
A non-linear distance measure on Fermatean fuzzy sets based on cross-information disparity and its applications
Authors: Sarmah Kaushik Kr. , Gohain Brindaban , Gogoi Surabhi , Chutia Rituparna
Published: December 2023

Distance measure on Fermeatean Fuzzy Sets (FFSs) has been emerged as a new extension in the process of diversification of analyzing the similarity degree between two fuzzy sets in the recent years. Due to its ability to address various real world problems with uncertainties involving decision-makings, pattern-recognition, data-clustering, disease diagnosis etc. different measures have been evolved time to time and established their proficiency in diverse manner and the process is still in continuation. However, due to various limitations in some of the existing distance measures on FFSs, their efficiency on delivering reasonable results in some real life situations becomes very low. This leads to the requirement of developing a new distance measure which is efficient in various real life situations. In this paper, a novel distance measure has been introduced to address different real world situations specially categorization problems based on pattern recognition, and discussed about the under-performance of the majority of the existing measures on FFSs regarding their utilization on these situations. The relevance of the current measure has further been discussed towards the fields of decision making, pattern recognition, clustering problem and medical diagnosis.
Associations of dyspnea symptoms with lung function in patients with COVID-19 in the acute period
Authors: Zhang Lin , Wang Lei , Zhu Mengdie , Liu Na , Zhang Nan , Cui Likun , Li Zhifang , Wang Panpan
Published: December 2023

Background Currently, the main prevalent strain of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) is Omicron, which shows elevated viral load and spread ability, bringing new challenges to pandemic prevention and control. Objective To examine the associations of dyspnea symptoms with lung function in coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) patients during the acute period. Methods This study included COVID-19 cases diagnosed by real-time PCR (RT-PCR). These patients were divided into the dyspnea and non-dyspnea groups based on whether they had dyspnea symptoms at the time of admission. Results A total of 29 patients with pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were included in this study. Of all patients, 17.24% (5/29) had severe COVID-19, while the remaining cases were mild or moderate. Lung function was normal, with forced vital capacity (FVC) ≥ 80%, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)/FVC ≥ 0.92, and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) ≥ 80% in 96.55% (28/29), 79.31% (23/29), and 72.41% (21/29) of patients, respectively. Computer tomography (CT) findings were normal in 10.34% (3/29) of patients. Conclusions Multivariate analysis showed that lung function and chest CT parameters are not independently associated with dyspnea persistence in acute COVID-19 patients.
Burden of disease, incidence, and spatial distribution of Schizophrenia in Ecuador from 2011 to 2021 using hospital discharge records
Authors: Mascialino Guido , Carrington Sara J. , Coral-Almeida Marco , Álvarez-Mejía Diana , Torres-Tapia Mabel Estefanía , Rodríguez-Lorenzana Alberto
Published: December 2023

Purpose the aim of this study is to determine the incidence, burden of disease, and spatial distribution of Schizophrenia in Ecuador in a ten-year period. Methods publicly available hospital discharge records from 2011 to 2021 were analyzed to determine incidence, DALYs, and spatial distribution of schizophrenia cases for that period. Results From 2010 to 2021, a total of 10542 schizophrenia cases were reported. There was a significant negative association between time and incidence rates, suggesting an important decrease in schizophrenia cases throughout the study time. The estimated burden of disease of schizophrenia in Ecuador varied from 153.054 to 289.785 per 100,000 population on average depending on the scenario used for estimation. Highest incidence clusters were in Guayas and Pichincha, location of the two most populous cities in the country. Conclusion This is the first study to characterize in detail the incidence and burden of schizophrenia in Ecuador. The results obtained could contribute to the refinement and formulation of health policies, the allocation of government resources and the improvement of health surveillance systems to improve the quality and scope of care provided to individuals affected by this disorder.
lncRNA CDKN2B-AS1 regulates collagen expression
Authors: Shi Weiwei , Song Jiahui , Weiner January , Chopra Avneesh , Dommisch Henrik , Beule Dieter , Schaefer Arne S
Published: December 2023

Background
The long noncoding RNA CDKN2B-AS1 harbors a major coronary artery disease risk haplotype, which is also associated with progressive forms of the oral inflammatory disease periodontitis as well as myocardial infarction (MI). Despite extensive research, there is currently no broad consensus on the function of CDKN2B-AS1 that would explain a common molecular role of this lncRNA in these diseases.Our aim was to investigate the role of CDKN2B-AS1 in gingival cells to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the increased risk of progressive periodontitis.
Methods
We downregulated CDKN2B-AS1 transcript levels in primary gingival fibroblasts with LNA GapmeRs. Following RNA-sequencing, we performed differential expression, gene set enrichment analyses and Western Blotting. Putative causal alleles were searched by analyzing associated DNA sequence variants for changes of predicted transcription factor binding sites. We functionally characterized putative functional alleles using luciferase-reporter and antibody electrophoretic mobility shift assays in gingival fibroblasts and HeLa cells.
Results
Of all gene sets analysed, collagen biosynthesis was most significantly upregulated (Padj=9.7x10− 5 (AUC > 0.65) with the CAD and MI risk gene COL4A1 showing strongest upregulation of the enriched gene sets (Fold change = 12.13, Padj = 4.9 x 10− 25). The inflammatory “TNFA signaling via NFKB” gene set was downregulated the most (Padj=1x10− 5 (AUC = 0.60). On the single gene level, CAPNS2, involved in extracellular matrix organization, was the top upregulated protein coding gene (Fold change = 48.5, P < 9x10− 24). The risk variant rs10757278 altered a binding site of the pathogen responsive transcription factor STAT1 (P = 5.8x10− 6). rs10757278-G allele reduced STAT1 binding 14.4% and rs10757278-A decreased luciferase activity in gingival fibroblasts 41.2% (P = 0.0056), corresponding with GTEx data.
Conclusion
CDKN2B-AS1 represses collagen gene expression in gingival fibroblasts. Dysregulated collagen biosynthesis through allele-specific CDKN2B-AS1 expression in response to inflammatory factors may affect collagen synthesis, and in consequence tissue barrier and atherosclerotic plaque stability.