bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Significance of Genetically Determined Methylation and Folate Metabolism Disorders in the Pathogenesis of Coronary Artery Disease: A Target for New Therapies?
Authors: Pietruszyńska-Reszetarska Agnieszka , Pietruszyński Robert , Irzmański Robert
Published: May 2024

Methylation is a biochemical process involving the addition of a methyl group (-CH3) to various chemical compounds. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the homeostasis of the endothelium, which lines the interior surface of blood vessels and has been linked, among other conditions, to coronary artery disease (CAD). Despite significant progress in CAD diagnosis and treatment, intensive research continues into genotypic and phenotypic CAD biomarkers. This review explores the significance of the methylation pathway and folate metabolism in CAD pathogenesis, with a focus on endothelial dysfunction resulting from deficiency in the active form of folate (5-MTHF). We discuss emerging areas of research into CAD biomarkers and factors influencing the methylation process. By highlighting genetically determined methylation disorders, particularly the MTHFR polymorphism, we propose the potential use of the active form of folic acid (5-MTHF) as a novel CAD biomarker and personalized pharmaceutical for selected patient groups. Our aim is to improve the identification of individuals at high risk of CAD and enhance their prognosis.
Militarization, Industrial Progress, and Their Carbon Footprints in NATO Countries: A Panel Econometric Analysis
Authors: Riaz Mahmud Hasan , Khan Musa , Ahmed Zobayer , Zobair Shah Asadullah Mohd
Published: May 2024

This study assesses the impact of militarization, industrialization, technological innovation, and energy consumption on CO2 emissions in NATO countries, divided into "traditional" (Group 1) and "new member" states (Group 2), using data from 1985 to 2019. It identifies heterogeneity in effects and dependencies between the groups. Employing Pedroni and Kao panel cointegration tests, a long-term equilibrium relationship among the variables is confirmed. The analysis, using panel ARDL and GMM methods, reveals distinct outcomes for each group. In Group 1, military spending and energy consumption significantly increase CO2 emissions, while industrialization and technological innovation reduce them. Conversely, in Group 2, technological innovation and energy consumption raise emissions, whereas military spending and industrialization decrease them. The findings suggest Group 1 should strategize military expenditure and energy consumption to cut emissions, whereas Group 2 should focus on eco-friendly technology and efficient energy use to achieve environmental sustainability.
Panel Surface Area Maximization for Increasing PV Performance
Authors: Okello Moses Oyaro
Published: May 2024

Solar energy is one of the most important renewable energy sources for many settings, such as households, solar-powered vehicles, power grid support, etc. However, the amount of solar energy produced is directly proportional to the surface area of the solar panel exposed to the sun rays, and so the challenges arise for the space required to install solar panels in order to get maximum area coverage of sun radiation energy absorption in constricted spaces such as vehicles powered by solar, small residential apartments, etc. The challenge with solar energy is that once a plate is installed, the space under it or above it cannot be used for another solar panel installation. This is due to the fact that the shadow cast by the above solar panel or structure prevents sun rays from reaching the below solar panel. The introduction of flexible solar panels that can take on any shape has given us the opportunity to explore the possibility of maximising solar plate surface area using surface manifold techniques. In this optimisation study, the constraint is that we have a space with fixed dimensions of length, width, and height, and the objective is to maximise the surface area of the panel within the given space dimensions to maximise solar energy absorption. Thus, this paper then proposes curving the panel surface and/or protruding the surfaces of the panel using the concept of a topology surface manifold to maximise the surface area: Protruding panel surface with shapes such as pyramidal, cone, hemisphere, sinusoidal wavy curve, etc. are analysed to check if the panel surface increases at all. The geometrical design result shows that the panel surface can increase by more than 20%. Although this paper only presents concept work and details of experimental design are yet to be performed, it should also be noted that curving surfaces have drawbacks, such as some protruding parts of solar panels when the plate is tilted, not facing the sun directly, which may cast shadows on parts of the solar panel, causing hindrance.
Neutralization and Binding Capability of SARS-CoV-2 Variants by/of IgG Antibodies of Early COVID-19 Convalescent Inactivated Sera based on Indirect ELISA
Authors: Hussain Behzad , Zhao Peizhe , Yang Bo , Li Xiaoxiong , Zhang Zhichao , Feng Guoqiang , Zhang Demei , Lu Defen , Wu Changxin
Published: May 2024

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a single stranded RNA virus which has resulted in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and has infected millions of people all over the world. SARS-CoV-2 has been mutating rapidly resulting in the emergence of multiple variants to escape the host immune system mainly by mutations in its receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein. This rapid evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 posed a great challenge regarding the efficacy and effectiveness of the current SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. The RBD and full-length spike of SARS-CoV-2 is the main target of the neutralizing antibodies. Many SARS-CoV-2 variants are considered to have the potential to escape from the host immune system. In this study, the RBD of Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Kappa and Omicron and the full-length spike of BA.1, BA.2, BA.3, BA.4/5, BQ.1.1 and XBB.1.5 Omicron variants were used as coating antigens in Enzyme Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay (ELISA) to check the neutralization capability of COVID-19 convalescent sera from patients of first wave of infection occurring in Wuhan. Our results show that the currently circulating Omicron BQ.1.1, XBB.1.5 and previous Omicron BA.1, BA.2 and BA.4/5 do not show significant reduction in neutralization, while Omicron BA.3 and previous variants Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Kappa, and Omicron showed a significantly reduced neutralization when compared to the wild-type Wuhan strain. These results indicate patients recovering from natural infection of early original Wuhan strain may have the potential to resist infection of current circulating variants and the vaccines using the prototype antigen may still working for newly emerged variants.
Heterogeneous Solid Acid Catalysts for Sustainable Biodiesel Production from Wastewater-Derived Sludge: A Systematic and Critical Review
Authors: Ansari Mohsen , Jamali Hamzehali , Ghanbari Reza , Ehrampoush Mohammad Hassan , Zamani Parvin , Hatami Behnam
Published: May 2024

This comprehensive review has systematically examined the use of heterogeneous solid acid catalysts in the production of biodiesel from wastewater-derived sludge by using the PRISMA methodology. The manuscript highlighted the composition and characteristics of wastewater-derived sludge, presenting both the opportunities and challenges associated with its use as a feedstock for biodiesel production. Various types of catalysts were dis-cussed, with a detailed exploration of heterogeneous solid acid catalysts, including zeolites, hetero-polyacid (HPA), mixed metal oxides, and sulphonic acid group catalysts. The advantages and limitations of these catalysts were critically analyzed, providing a balanced view of their potential in industrial applications. The application section delved into the catalytic transesterification reaction, mechanisms of biodiesel production, and the effects of catalyst loading on yield. Performance metrics such as catalytic activity, stability, recyclability, cost-effectiveness, and environ-mental impact were thoroughly evaluated, offering a clear understanding of the efficacy of these catalysts. Synthesis and characterization techniques were also reviewed, shedding light on the latest preparation methods and characterization techniques. Recent advances in catalyst development were presented, showcasing the innovative strides made in enhancing catalyst performance. The environmental and economic implications of using solid acid catalysts for bio-diesel production were assessed, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and economic viability.
Gintonin-Enriched Panax ginseng Extract Fraction Sensitizes Renal Carcinoma Cells to TRAIL-induced Apoptosis through DR4/5 Upregulation
Authors: Hong Seongwoo , Lee Rami , Park Gyun Seok , Han Sumin , Shin Juhyun , Lee Yoon-Mi , Nah Seung-Yeol , Oh Jae-Wook
Published: May 2024

Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a promising chemotherapeutic agent because of its selective apoptotic action on cancer cells. However, resistance to TRAIL-induced apoptosis remains a challenge in many cancers. The gintonin-enriched Panax ginseng extract fraction (GEF) has diverse pharmacological benefits. We explored the combined efficacy of GEF and TRAIL in inducing apoptosis in human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cells. The effect of GEF treatment on viability, clonogenic potential, wound healing, and TRAIL-induced apoptotic signaling of RCC cells was studied in vitro. Our investigation revealed that GEF pre-treatment sensitized RCC cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis, as evidenced by DNA fragmentation and cell proliferation, colony formation, and migration inhibition. This sensitization was linked to the upregulation of death receptors 4 and 5 and alterations in apoptotic protein expression; notably, decreased expression of Mu-2-related death-inducing gene, a novel anti-apoptotic protein. Our findings underscore the necessity of caspase activation for GEF/TRAIL-induced apoptosis using the pan-caspase inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK. It demonstrates that GEF sensitizes human RCC cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis by upregulating DR4/5 and modulating apoptotic protein expression. These findings suggest a promising strategy for overcoming TRAIL resistance in cancer therapy and highlight the potential of GEF as a valuable adjunct to TRAIL-based treatments.
Fabrication of Gold Nanostructures as SERS Substrates for the Detection of Rhodamine B Contaminant in Water
Authors: Visbal Cristhian A. , Cervantes Wilkendry Ramos , Marín Lorena , Betancourt John , Pérez Angélica , Diosa Jesús E. , Rodríguez Luis A. , Mosquera-Vargas Edgar
Published: May 2024

Gold nanostructures (AuNSs) were used to fabricate surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) substrates. These AuNSs were produced by the solid-state dewetting method from thin films. The fragmentation process was studied at 300 °C, considering the duration of the thermal treatment for 1, 3, 6, and 12 hours. These SERS substrates were then employed to detect Rhodamine B (RhB) as a model analyte, simulating a contaminant in water at a concentration of 5 ppm. The morphology of the AuNSs was examined using SEM, which revealed a spheroidal shape beginning to coalesce after 12 hours. The size of the AuNSs was estimated to range from 22 ± 7 to 24 ± 6 nm, depending on the annealing time. The surface plasmon resonance of the AuNSs was determined using absorption spectroscopy, showing a shift as the annealing time increased. The SERS signals of RhB adsorbed on the AuNS substrates were studied, and a comparative analysis showed no significant differences in the positions of the bands; however, variations in intensity enhancement ranged from 20 to 90 times for 6 and 3 hours, respectively. Three new vibrational modes, observed at 1683, 1720, and 1789 cm–1, have been identified and reported.
One-Step Synthesis, Crystallography, and Acute Toxicity of Two Boronic-Carbohydrate Adducts which Induced Sedation in Mice
Authors: Córdova-Chávez Ricardo Iván , Trujillo-Ferrara José G. , Padilla-Martínez Itzia I. , Gonzalez-Espinosa Hector , Abad-García Antonio , Farfán-García Eunice D. , Ortega-Camarillo Clara , Contreras-Ramos Alejandra , Soriano-Ursua Marvin A.
Published: May 2024

Background: Boronic acids form di-ester bonds with cis-hydroxyl groups in carbohydrates. The formation of these adducts could impair the physical and chemical properties of the precursors, even their biological activity. Methods: Two carbohydrate-derivatives from D-fructose and D-arabinose and phenylboronic acid were synthesized in a straightforward one-step procedure and chemically characterized by spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction crystallography. Also, an acute toxicity test was performed to determine their Lethal Dose50 (LD50) by using the Lorke’s method. Results: Analytical chemistry assays confirmed adducts by the generation of the diester bonds with a β-D-pyranose of carbohydrates, including signals corresponding to the formation of new bonds, like the stretching of B-O bonds. The NMR spectra yielded information about the stereoselectivity in the synthesis reaction by the finding of just one signal in the range for the anomeric carbon in the 13C NMR spectra of both adducts. The acute toxicity tests showed that LD50 value for both compounds is 1265 mg/kg, while Effective Dose 50 for sedation is 531 mg/kg. However, differences were in the onset and lapse of sedation. Conclusions: These adducts are bioactive and highly safe agents. Further biological evaluation is desirable to explore medical purposes.
Does Diversification in Overseas Equity by Indian Mutual Funds Improve Their Performance?
Authors: Krishnamurthy Jaishankar , Singh Satyendra Pratap
Published: May 2024

As per the portfolio theory proposed by Markowitz (1952), diversification has the potential to mitigate portfolio risk. Further benefits can come from diversifying internationally since poor correlations among international markets can cause risks that are systematic in one market to become unsystematic in terms of the global economy. SEBI granted approval for Indian Mutual Funds to invest in ADR/GDR released by Indian Companies in 1999. Subsequently, SEBI has eased the rules for investment and several times it has now allowed Indian mutual funds to invest in foreign equity subject to certain limits. While SEBI had approved Indian mutual funds to invest in ADSs of Indian companies way back in 1999, the growth in investment in foreign securities started with the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020. The exponential growth in the value of stocks in the US, driven largely by growth in technology stocks, propelled investment by Indian Mutual Funds that increased investment by ten-fold to over INR 30,000 Crores. While several focused funds with a mandate to invest in US stocks formed the bulk of the investment, other flexi cap and blue-chip funds, which had erstwhile fully invested in Indian stocks, also joined the bandwagon. While research on other developed economies has revealed the positive impact of international diversification, the Authors current research examined the advantages of international diversification on the Indian mutual funds’ performance. Authors used methods like t-test, F-test, Anova, Levene test for homogeneity and regression to check the validity of our results. Authors found that the international diversification by Indian equity mutual funds that invest in both US and Indian equities outperform benchmarks one third of the time. More importantly, by diversifying into international equities, these mutual funds are able to lower their volatility and therefore provide better risk reward returns. This is the first major study of this kind about Indian mutual funds investment in foreign equities and would be valuable investors, mutual fund managers and the regulator. As investments by Indians and Indian equity mutual funds are expected to increase significantly in the coming years, this study is timely and relevant at the current context of Indian mutual fund industry.
Long Short-Term Memory Recurrent Network Architectures for Electromagnetic Field Reconstruction Based on Underground Observations
Authors: Tian Yixing , Xie Chengliang , Wang Yun
Published: May 2024

Deep underground laboratories offer advantages for conducting high-precision observations of weak geophysical signals, benefitting from a low background noise level. It is both valuable and feasible to enhance strong, noisy ground electromagnetic (EM) field data using synchronously recorded underground EM signals, which typically exhibit a high signal-to-noise ratio. In this study, we propose an EM field reconstruction method employing a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) recurrent neural network with referenced deep underground EM observations. Initially, a deep learning model was developed to capture the time-varying features of underground multi-component EM fields using the LSTM recurrent neural network. Subsequently, this model was applied to process synchronously observed strong, noisy data from other conventional observation systems, such as those at surface, to achieve noise suppression through signal reconstructions. Both theoretical analysis and practical observational data suggest that the proposed method effectively suppresses noise and reconstructs clean EM signals. This method is efficient and time-saving, representing an effective approach to fully utilizing the advantages of deep underground observation data. Furthermore, this method could be extended to the processing and analysis of other geophysical data.
Potentially Inappropriate Medication: A Pilot Study in Institutionalized Older Adults
Authors: Andrade Amanda , Nascimento Tânia , Cabrita Catarina , Leitão Helena , Pinto Ezequiel
Published: May 2024

Institutionalized older adults often face complex medication regimens, increasing their risk of adverse drug events due to polypharmacy, overprescribing, medication interactions or the use of Potentially Inappropriate Medications (PIM). However, data on medication use and associated risks in this population remain scarce. This pilot study aimed to characterize the sociodemographic, clinical and pharmacotherapeutic profiles and the use of PIM among institutionalized elders residing in Residential Structures for Elderly People (ERPI) in the Faro municipality, located in the Portuguese region of the Algarve. We conducted a cross-sectional study in a non-randomized sample of 96 participants (mean age: 86.6 ±7.86 years) where trained researchers reviewed medication profiles and identified potentially inappropriate medications using the EU(7)-PIM list. Over 90% of participants exhibited polypharmacy (≥5 medications), with an average of 9.1 ± 4.15 medications per person. About 92% had potential drug interactions, including major and moderate interactions. More than 86% used at least one potentially inappropriate medication, most commonly central nervous system drugs. This pilot study demonstrates that institutionalized older adults may be at high risk of potential medication-related problems. Implementing comprehensive medication review programs and promoting adapted prescribing practices are crucial to optimize medication use and improve the well-being of this vulnerable population.
Green Leaf Volatiles: A New Player in the Protection Against Abiotic Stresses?
Authors: Engelberth Jurgen
Published: May 2024

To date the role of green leaf volatiles has been mainly constrained to their role in protecting plants against pests and pathogens. However, increasing evidence suggests that among the stresses that can significantly harms plants, GLV can also provide significant protection against an array of those including heat, cold, drought, light, and salinity. But while the molecular basis for this protection is still largely unknown, it seems obvious that a common theme in the way GLV work is that most if not all of these stresses are associated with physical damage to the plants, which in turn is the major event responsible for the production of GLV. Here, I summarize the current state of knowledge on GLV and abiotic stresses and provide a model that explains the multifunctionality of these compounds.
A Crystal Plasticity Based Simulation to Predict Fracture Initiation Toughness in Reactor Grade Aluminium: Experimental Verification and Study of Effect of Crystal Orientation
Authors: Samal M.K. , Sahu T. , Syed A.
Published: May 2024

Aluminium alloys are used for fabrication of fuel clad of research grade nuclear reactors as well as of several types of core components of high flux research reactors. In order to carry out design and safety analysis of these components, their mechanical and fracture properties are required by the designer. In this work, experiments have been conducted on tensile specimens machined from an aluminium alloy block to evaluate the material stress-strain curve. For evaluation of fracture properties, experiments have been conducted on disc shaped compact tension specimens in order to determine the fracture toughness of aluminium alloy. From crystal plasticity based finite element analysis and experimental data, a material damage parameter for prediction of crack initiation has been evaluated. The variation of the parameter for various values of initial a/W ratios of the disc-shaped CT specimens have been studied. It was observed that the damage parameter is independent of crack geometry and hence, it qualifies as transferable material property which can be used to predict crack initiation in a component of this material subjected to different kinds of loading conditions. In addition, the JR curves of the disc-shaped CT specimens have also been evaluated from experiments. The material damage parameter has also been used to study the crack initiation in single crystal fracture specimens with two different orientations. It was observed that the [111] orientation is more susceptible to crack initiation and propagation compared to the [100] orientation as the damage parameter is high in the ligament of the specimen ahead of the crack-tip for the same level of load. The results of the experiments and the material damage parameter shall be helpful for integrity analysis of fuel clad of research reactors as well as components of high flux research reactors.
Exploring the Antidiabetic Potential of Neocarya macrophylla (Nm) Leaf Fractions: A Comprehensive Study on Hypoglycemic Activity, Body Mass Index, and Hematological Parameters in High-Fat Diet/ Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rat
Authors: Maifata sadiq , Yusuf Amina Jega , Usman Zayyanu Umar , Rabiu Ahmed Muhammed , Ja'e Abdullahi Adamu , Suleman-Alabi Aminat , Onwuchekwa Chinedu
Published: May 2024

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) continues to rise globally, posing significant health challenges and burdens. This metabolic disorder, characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, contributes to various complications including cardiovascular diseases, kidney failure, and stroke. While conventional diabetic drugs exist, they often come with adverse side effects, necessitating the exploration of safer and more cost-effective alternatives, particularly from natural sources like medicinal plants. This study investigates the potential of Neocarya macrophylla (Nm) Ethyl acetate leaf fraction in managing DM. Utilizing a high-fat diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model, the study explores several key aspects including effective dose determination, biological activity, impact on body mass index (BMI), and complete blood count. Statistical analysis was conducted using GraphPad Prism version 9.1. The determination of the minimum effective dose reveals that 120mg/kg of Ethyl acetate fraction of Nm reduced the blood glucose by 28.9% after 4 hours. In addition, ethyl acetate fraction (120 mg/kg) possessed the most hypoglycemic activity compared to the other fractions of Nm. The Ethyl acetate fraction of Nm at 120mg/kg significantly reduced fasting blood glucose levels compared to the diabetic control(p=0.001) and slightly decreased BMI. Furthermore, the fraction demonstrated significant improvement in the parameters of some of the blood count indices such as red blood cells (p<0.001), total white cells (p<0.01) and platelet (p<0.001) compared to the diabetic control. These findings underscore the potential of Nm as a holistic therapeutic option for managing DM and its haematological complications. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the hypoglycemic potential of Nm Ethyl acetate leaf fraction, offering valuable insights into its effectiveness, safety, and broader physiological impacts. Further research into the mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects is warranted to fully harness its therapeutic potential in diabetes management.
The Oppression and Subversion of Annie: A Postcolonial Feminist Interpretation of A Wilderness Station
Authors: Ding Qiying
Published: May 2024

“A Wilderness Station” is Alice Munro’s short story revolving around the mystery of the insanity of the female protagonist Annie Herron. Based on postcolonial feminist theory, this paper demonstrates that the oppression and subversion of Annie are closely related with her insane behavior in “A Wilderness Station”. It finds that Annie suffers double oppression, namely, the colonial religious hegemony and the patriarchal domination, showcasing the female predicaments in Canada in the nineteenth century. It also explores that Annie subverts the colonial and patriarchal oppression through her insanity and feminine writing, thereby providing possible exploration for the female endeavors to transform from being the silent “Other” to the subjective “Other”.
Detectable Radius of Investigation for One Flow Period with Bourdet Derivative
Authors: Jiang Lei , Chen Li , Yu Hua , Kristensen Morten , Gisolf Adriaan , Dumont Hadrien
Published: May 2024

A new definition of the radius of investigation (ROI) is proposed to overcome the ambiguity present in the results from conventional ROI quantification methods. The term ROI is commonly used to quantify the minimum reservoir size or the distance to a potential boundary evaluated through pressure transient testing. However, the various methods available in the literature to quantify ROI often provide different answers stemming from varying assumptions and thus often lead to confusion in terms of the appropriate definition to choose. Although the ROI method developed by Van Poolen is well recognized in the industry, there is still debate about its general applicability because it is limited to a constant-rate flow period and is insensitive to flow rate, flow sequence, gauge resolution, and measurement noise level. This contrasts with operational experience, where a higher flow rate, higher gauge precision, and lower level of measurement noise lead to higher quality pressure transient testing data from which reservoir boundaries, or other features, can be identified farther away from the wellbore. In other words, higher flow rates, better gauges, and lower noise levels can lead to a larger achievable ROI.

We propose a new definition of ROI, which is the detectable ROI for each drawdown or buildup flow period. The detectable ROI is derived from the actual pressure derivative response and not from a generic model assumption. By defining a derivative noise envelope, the new method clearly identifies the time when the derivative deviates from an unbounded model due to the presence of a boundary and thus provides an estimate of the detectable ROI for the analyzed period.

This method overcomes the limitations of most conventional methods and provides ROI predictions that depend on flow rate and gauge noise while maintaining a consistent result with the current pressure transient interpretation. While detectable ROI is applicable for general drawdown/buildup pressure transient tests, the concept was developed with deep transient testing (DTT) in mind.
Improvement in Well Integrity by Mitigating Casing to Cement Debonding Using Advanced Technique
Authors: Alibrahim Mohammed , Jezany Mahdy , Sadeed Ahmed , Allam Belal
Published: May 2024

This paper addresses the deployment of an external protective coating with a rough surface profile on wells identified as susceptible to common well cementing issues. It presents the associated challenges and highlights the distinctive benefits and robustness of the solution in effectively enhancing the well integrity. Initially, experimental investigations were conducted to assess the impact of casing surface profile on casing/cement bond quality. Subsequently, candidate wells were selected where additional cementing requirements was required to reinforce well integrity. Coated casings with rough surface profiles were deployed, followed by Cement Bond Logs (CBL) to evaluate the quality of casing/cement bond. The CBL responses of the selected wells were then compared to wells utilizing bare casings. The results indicated that the casing surface roughness due to external protective coating serves a dual purpose of corrosion protection and establishing a robust bond with cement. The corrosion logs provided a positive indication of good corrosion prevention. The findings from the CBL-VDL logs were aligned with the presence of a sturdy casing/cement bond. Cement bond logs from the wells, in which casing surface roughness is high, revealed the establishment of a solid cement/casing bond. The study indicated that an increase in surface roughness contributed to shear bond strength. The protective coating reinforced with special quartz, to provide high surface roughness, created a robust and rough surface that not only prevented corrosion initiation/propagation but also fostered a strong bond between the casing and cement. The outcomes indicated that the implementation of this innovative technique does not only provide corrosion protection but also enhanced casing-cement bond. Thus, it lowered the risk of fluid migration, consequently, mitigating sustained casing pressure. Therefore, it extended the lifespan of producing wells, resulting in notable cost reductions by eliminating frequent shut-in and costly workovers.
Challenges in Performing Coiled Tubing Zonal Isolation in a Well with Integrity Complication and the Probable Low-Cost Solutions; A Case Study in Balingian Basin
Authors: Karim Nurul. A. , Chua Hing. L. , Mokhtar Mohd. K. Mohd , Choi Yee. X. , Barat Junnyaruin. , Saleh Nur. E. , Amran Amierul. , Yap Yin. H.
Published: May 2024

This paper discusses the common operation challenges when performing Coiled Tubing Cement Zonal Isolation in a well with integrity complications and offers probable solutions to mitigate the operational risks introduced by the well integrity issues.

Our case study, well Y is situated in the shallow offshore terrain in Balingian Basin. This well was completed as a Dual String Completion Oil Producer in the year 1986. After years of production, well Y experienced multiple leaks in its production tubing, and the leaks were successfully isolated by tubing patches.

During well intervention campaign, these multiple tubing patches need to be retrieved to allow Coiled Tubing to pass through the well inner diameter (ID) which leaves the well to be in a leaking condition again.

A comprehensive risk assessment was conducted to identify the feasibility of performing Coiled Tubing Cement Zonal Isolation in a leaking tubing and recommended solutions to achieve a successful Zonal Isolation. Few of the vital criteria that enabled this campaign to be executed were the location of tubing leaks that were ways above the intended top of cement, the Production Packer Integrity was intact, and the use of Cement Retainer in the operation.

The low-cost solutions recommended were to (1) fill up both production casing and tubing with fluid to enable Production Packer – Tubing Integrity / Cement Retainer Integrity to be evaluated appropriately, (2) use of Single Trip Cast Iron Cement Retainer to avoid difficulties in sting-in or (3) use of Modified Cement Retainer with Dual Flapper Check Valve (DFCV) and Pump Out Plug to facilitate Cement Retainer Integrity Test in case if result from solution (1) was misleading or not available.

This paper therefore details all the operation approaches taken by the project team in accessing the available well data and how the integrity problems were addressed. This paper intends to guide well engineer who might face similar well integrity challenges in their intervention campaign.
DCT-based Perceptual Loss For Screen Content Image Super-Resolution
Authors: Sekhavaty-Moghadam Hossein , Hosseinkhani Marzieh , Mansouri Azadeh
Published: May 2024

The acceptable results of deep learning led to the use of the deep neural network on a wide range of models, including image super-resolution. The performance of the deep neural network is directly affected by its loss function. Most methods use intensity loss, such as MSE, which computes the difference between the predicted image and the ground truth. Since the structural information of a scene is more sensitive to the human visual system, it is desired that the loss function could measure the impact of the structural error. In addition, the use of screen content images has become widespread because of many applications such as desktop-sharing and remote computing. As a result, super-resolution of screen content images becomes a crucial technique to enhance the quality of low-resolution images. In the presented loss function, the structural error is weighted by employing DCT components. The model is trained and tested using the screen content images, and the experimental subjective and objective results illustrate the effectiveness of the presented loss for screen content images.
Using citizen science to protect threatened amphibian populations in Mediterranean urban spaces
Authors: Darel Omer , Rybak Olga , Levy Asaf Ben , Kolodny Gabi , Kis-Papo Tamar , Alon Nirit Lavie , Vidan Rotem , Kolodny Oren
Published: May 2024

Over 40% of known amphibian species are threatened, with urbanization as one of the major threats to their continued survival. Conservation efforts to sustain viable amphibian populations within urban spaces may play a meaningful part in protecting amphibian species. To explore the factors that influence the viability of urban amphibian population in Mediterranean environments, we used a capture-recapture analysis applied to a large dataset collected in a multi-year citizen science program, focused on two Salamandra infraimmaculata populations within Haifa, and to a second dataset that we collected for two Bufotes variabilis populations within Jerusalem and at a nature reserve near it. Individuals of both species have individually-unique patterns of dorsal spots, which allowed for noninvasive recapture identification. Using the salamander dataset, we developed a length-based age-estimation method and discovered a prolonged period of increased vulnerability throughout their first years of life, even after reaching sexual maturity, a finding with important implications for management of such populations. Additionally, the shared conclusions from the two case studies indicate that the creation of fish-containing artificial water bodies in Mediterranean habitats can have highly detrimental impacts on amphibian populations. The study uncovered population-specific information, such as unknown breeding sites and population size estimates, of importance for their conservation, and demonstrates the utility of citizen science in study and conservation of urban ecology.
Green Transformation and Enterprise Performance Efficiency Evaluation of Listed Thermal Power Enterprises in China: A Three-Stage DEA Model Based on Environmental Tax Burden
Authors: Liu Xiao-yan , Ren Fang-rong , Sun Fang-yi , Yuan Xiaomei
Published: May 2024

The recent occurrence of global extreme climate events has prompted the international community to pay more attention to environmental issues. Characterized by high emissions and high pollution, thermal power enterprises have entered a critical period of transition towards clean energy. In response to the increasingly serious environmental pollution problem, the China government has begun to levy environmental protection taxes nationwide. This research selects 21 listed thermal power enterprises in China as the sample and uses a three-stage (operation, green transformation, and market performance) DEA evaluation model to evaluate the efficiency of their green transformation and corporate performance. We integrate comprehensive indicators such as ESG (environment, social, governance), stock price, and energy substitution returns into the model and conduct comparative research based on the macro-level policies and geographical location of the enterprises’ location. Using environmental tax burden as an exogenous variable, comparative analysis is conducted on corporate efficiency before and after adjusting the environmental tax burden. In terms of overall efficiency, there is a certain positive correlation between the overall efficiency value of thermal power enterprises and the economic development of the region in which they are located. In terms of stage efficiency, the green transformation efficiency of most thermal power enterprises is superior to market performance efficiency. In terms of sub-indicator efficiency, the efficiency values of input-output indicators in various stages of thermal power enterprises are mostly in a stable and progressive state. The environmental tax burden mainly improves the overall efficiency of thermal power enterprises by raising operational efficiency and green transformation stage efficiency, without affecting market performance efficiency. To further increase efficiency, thermal power enterprises should actively establish communication channels with stakeholders and alleviate financial difficulties caused by green transformation as much as possible. In addition to continuing to implement environmental tax collection, government departments should also designate a series of targeted subsidy policies.
In-cabin particulate matter exposure of heavy earth moving machinery operators in Indian opencast coal mine
Authors: Pradhan Dhruti Sundar , Patra Aditya , Santra Samrat , Penchala Abhishek , Sahu Satya Prakash
Published: May 2024

As a part of their occupation, the operators of heavy earth moving machineries (HEMM) working in opencast mines are exposed to several air pollutants, prominent one being the airborne particulate matter. The paper presents the findings from a study that was aimed at investigating the particulate matter exposure of heavy earth moving machineries (HEMM’s) operators in highly mechanized opencast mines. The HEMMs included in the study are dumper, shovel and drill. The mean in-cabin PM10 concentrations of dumper and shovel, which had an air-conditioning system in the cabin, were in the range of 600–650 µg m− 3. Operators inside the drill cabin that did not have air conditioning systems were exposed to as high as 1992 µg m− 3 However, cabins were effective in preventing up to 20% particulate matter exposure by the operators in comparison to persons working in an open mine atmosphere. The main haul road in mines contributed ~ 50% higher exposure than the internal haul roads. Coarse particles (PM10) are retained in upper respiratory tracts while the fines (PM2.5 and PM1) travel via tracheobronchial region and reach the alveolar region. Occupational exposure of HEMM operators to different pollutants in a mine is at present very limited and therefore more studies need to be conducted.
D-dimer-based prediction model for flap loss in iliac bone transplantation
Authors: Wu Zhou-Yang , Zhou Ying , Ma Si-Rui , Yu Zi-Li , Jia Jun
Published: May 2024

Background:
In recent years, the utilization of autogenous vascularized iliac crest flap for repairing jaw defects has seen a significant rise. However, the visual monitoring of iliac bone grafts presents challenges, frequently leading to delayed detection of flap necrosis. Consequently, there's a pressing need to devise effective indicators for monitoring postoperative complications in iliac crest flaps.
Methods:
A retrospective review was conducted on 160 patients who underwent vascularized iliac bone transplantation surgery in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China, between January 2020 and December 2022.
Results
On the first day following surgery, patients who experienced thrombosis exhibited a substantial increase in plasma D-dimer levels, reaching 3.75 mg/L, a Fig. 13.84 times higher than the baseline. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05) compared to patients without postoperative complications. Furthermore, the nomogram we have developed and validated effectively predicts venous thrombosis, assigning individual risk scores to patients. This predictive tool was assessed in both training and validation cohorts, achieving areas under the curve (AUC) of 0.630 and 0.600, with the 95% confidence intervals of 0.452–0.807 and 0.243–0.957, respectively.
Conclusions:
Our study illustrates that postoperative plasma D-dimer levels can serve as a highly sensitive biomarker for monitoring thrombosis-induced flap loss. Moreover, we have developed a novel prediction model that integrates multiple factors, thereby enhancing the accuracy of early identification of patients at risk of thrombosis-associated flap loss. This advancement contributes to improving the overall management and outcomes of such procedures.
STUDY PROTOCOL Co-producing a supportive self-management intervention for Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and testing for feasibility: an exploratory sequential three phase study
Authors: Eftekhari H. , Pearce G. , Staniszewska S. , Seers K
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION:
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a long-term condition with an often disabling impact on quality of life. People with long-term conditions have to learn how to manage their condition. The evidence into interventions supporting people with POTS to learn self-management strategies is limited. The supportive self-management in POTS study (SSPOTS) aims to co-produce and feasibility test a POTS intervention. The research aims to evaluate the feasibility of a co-produced POTS supportive self-management intervention developed from the experiences of POTS.
METHODS
SSPOTS is an exploratory sequential three phased intervention development and feasibility testing design. A SSPOTS public and patient advisory board will advise on key study questions. Phase one will be a qualitative study of the experiences of POTS from the perspectives of people with POTS and health care practitioners. Data on the components of supportive self-management will then be extracted and mapped to the PRISMS taxonomy of supportive self-management components. In phase two, the taxonomized results from phase one will be taken to first an intervention co-designing workshop, and then to a second co-refining workshop. In the first co-designing workshop key people from a charity network and health care professionals will prioritise intervention components through nominal group technique. An intervention framework will be developed from these results, and a proposed intervention will be circulated to participants for co-refining. The second workshop will explore areas for co-refining. Phase three will be the feasibility testing of SSPOTS.
DISCUSSION
The primary outcome for the feasibility testing will be the number of eligible potential participants who convert into participants. Secondary outcome measures will be 1) adherence to sessions, 2) intervention fidelity, 3) outcome measure calculations of mean, medium and standard deviation to inform a sample size calculation for a potential future trial and 4) a focused process evaluation of intervention acceptability. Purposive sampling from three NHS identification sites with POTS services will aim to recruit a maximum of 30 participants. The feasibility study will inform the practicality of a definitive SSPOTS randomised control trial.
ETHICAL APPROVALS:
Ethical approval was sought initially for phase one, Chelsea Research Ethics Committee (HRA: 281841 25/6/21). Subsequent phases were granted ethical approval through substantial amendments to the original protocol. The initial protocol was for the phase one qualitative study, the first substantial amendment (09/09/2022) was for the co-production workshops and the second substantial amendment (23/08/2023) for the programme feasibility testing
Effects of an exercise program on long-term care certification and the incidence of bone fracture in community-dwelling older adults: A retrospective matched cohort study
Authors: Shibata Aki , Suzuki Asuka , Ishizuka Ryohei , Niwayama Marie , Takahashi Kenzo
Published: May 2024

Background
Exercise programs are implemented to prevent functional decline in older adults. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of an exercise program on the occurrence of long-term care certification and the incidence of bone fractures in community-dwelling older adults in a rural Japanese city.
Methods
Of the 1951 subjects, two non-participating groups were established to ensure comparability between groups for the 168 participants in the exercise program participation group. Matched Cohort 1 was matched 1:3 by sex, age, and baseline medical expenses, and 504 subjects were selected as the non-participating group. Matched Cohort 2 was variable ratio matched 1:1–4 by propensity score, and 420 subjects were selected as the non-participating group.
Results
In both of the matched cohorts, point estimates of the odds ratio for the effect of exercise participation on long-term care certification were less than 1. This study showed that continued participation in exercise programs may reduce the occurrence of progression to a state requiring long-term care.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that an exercise program contributes to the extension of a healthy life expectancy.
Predictors of pregnancy loss among urban and rural women aged 15 to 49 years in Pakistan
Authors: Samuel Kevin George , Kandala Ngianga-Bakwin , Ryan Bridget L , Thind Amardeep
Published: May 2024

Background
The burden of pregnancy loss remains high in low- and middle-income countries like Pakistan. The Every Newborn Action Plan (ENAP) aims to decrease the stillbirth rate to 12 per 1000 total births by 2030, in every country. Current estimates indicate that Pakistan is unlikely to achieve this ENAP target, as the stillbirth rate stands at 30.6 per 1000 total births.
Methods
This study used the 2019 Pakistan Maternal Mortality Survey to identify the community-level, sociodemographic, maternal, environmental, and health services factors that are associated with pregnancy loss. Due to characteristic differences in urban and rural communities, separate analyses were carried out for ever-married women of 15 to 49 years. Mixed effects negative binomial regression was used to analyze the urban (n = 5,887) and rural (n = 7,112) samples of women who reported at least one pregnancy.
Results
The separate analyses found the factors associated with pregnancy loss to vary between urban and rural areas. In urban areas, pregnancy loss was associated with maternal education, maternal age, current marital status, and sanitation facility type. In rural areas, pregnancy loss was associated with region of residence, wealth index, maternal age, current marital status, drinking water source, cooking fuel type, and sanitation facility type.
Conclusion
This study carries significant implications for alleviating the burden of pregnancy loss in Pakistan, in line with ENAP objectives. The separate analyses provide a novel perspective regarding the factors influencing pregnancy loss in urban and rural areas, allowing for targeted interventions.