bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Low-Carbon, Geopolymer Cement-Free Primary Cementing in the Middle East: A Case Study in Oman
Authors: Salazar Jose , Madani Raghdah , Hinai Abdullah Al , Peng Fei , Kapoor Saurabh , Abad Carlos , Wei Anna , Blanco Victor , Al Aufi Yousuf , Sutomo Wijanarko
Published: November 2024

A crucial step in the decarbonization of well cementing operations is the replacement of conventional cement with a cement-free system. One metric ton of carbon dioxide (CO2) is released to the environment for every metric ton of Portland cement manufactured. A geopolymer cement-free system, customized for downhole temperature and pressure conditions, was implemented in Oman. This case study presents an innovative, at-scale application of geopolymers in oilfield well cementing. In addition, it represents the first well cemented in the Middle East using the low-carbon geopolymer cement-free system.

The geopolymer cement-free system uses aluminosilicates as raw material activated in an alkali environment to produce a set material with similar or better properties than Portland cement. This provides a sustainable alternative to conventional cement with a comparable performance while contributing to efforts to decarbonize cementing operations.

This approach also considered the use of local raw materials to minimize the transportation-related carbon footprint. Several Omani raw material sources were evaluated until a suitable material was identified to meet the performance criteria.

The laboratory pilot tests performed included full sensitivities to produce a robust cement-free slurry that was suitable for cementing the candidate well successfully.

This case study confirms that the low-carbon geopolymer cement-free system integrates seamlessly into standard oilfield cementing workflows without requiring changes to the design process, onsite execution, or post-job evaluation.

Following the cementing jobs using the geopolymer cement-free system, a wireline evaluation log was performed, and zonal isolation was confirmed. This first primary casing cementing in an oil well using the low-carbon geopolymer cement-free system designed using local Omani raw materials represents the first step, paving the path toward decarbonization cementing operations in Oman and across the Middle East.

In this manuscript we will present the methodology used for the planning, execution, and evaluation of these cementing jobs. Close collaboration between the operator and cementing service company was fundamental to the success of this job. Details regarding the fluid selection, software simulation, laboratory testing, and final evaluation will be presented in this paper.

Prior to field application, a yard test was performed to confirm the handling (bulking) and transfer of the new cement-free blend and its mixing and pumping with a standard high-pressure cementing unit. Furthermore, the implementation of this innovative solution was complemented by a quantification of the carbon footprint using a sustainability assessment tool based on life-cycle analysis.
Future Operating Model
Authors: Costa David , Cazauran Benjamin , Aillos Alexandre
Published: November 2024

An international energy company aims to define a successful methodology and structure for performance and profitability improvement of assets in operations within the oil and gas industry.

To fulfill this objective, Future Operating Model studies focus on defining profitability improvement plans for operating assets by combining business analysis and technical expertise and by using internal and external benchmarks and gap analysis.

Taking stock of the local context, the study aims to improve operating efficiency and reduce OPEX by benchmarking production, costs, and emissions against comparable assets, and identifying the technical domains where Operational Excellence principles shall in priority be applied to improve performance. Typical improvement parameters targeted by a FOM study are reduce personnel exposure, optimize human resources, increase of operation efficiency and as such reduction of GHG, OPEX & CAPEX optimization.
Mechanism of Water Cut Reduction in CO2 Flooding to Enhance GOR Curve Prediction Accuracy
Authors: Xiao Z. , Diwu P. , Zhao B. , Wei Y. , Liu H. , Wang J.
Published: November 2024

Precise forecasting of Gas-Oil Ratio (GOR) curves is crucial for the effective and safe exploitation of reservoirs influenced by CO2 flooding. On a macroscopic level, the GOR curve typically exhibits a rapid rise, while on a microscopic level, it shows significant fluctuations. These characteristics make it challenging for conventional prediction methods to capture these dynamics, resulting in notable deficiencies in existing univariate models in terms of rapid response to changes and anomaly detection.

To address the challenges in predicting GOR curves, this study employs impulse response functions and cross-correlation functions to identify the lagged correlation between water cut and GOR curves. Based on these findings, a prediction strategy incorporating water cut constraints is proposed. This approach utilizes a multi-input Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network to balance the long-term trends and short-term fluctuations in GOR. The model is trained on well production data from 26 production wells in a CO2 pilot area in Northeast China, capturing monthly production indicators to improve prediction accuracy and enhance early warning capabilities for CO2 breakthrough events.

The research results indicate that incorporating water cut as a constraint variable significantly improved the accuracy of GOR curve predictions, particularly enabling predictions 60 days in advance in multi-step forecasting. The model's mean absolute error (MAE) decreased from 260.60 to 172.89, and the root mean square error (RMSE) reduced from 522.87 to 382.15, demonstrating a significant enhancement in the model's prediction accuracy and performance.

Incorporating water cut as a constraint variable into the deep learning prediction strategy significantly improves GOR curve trend accuracy and sensitivity to fluctuations. This provides engineers with an early warning tool for CO2 breakthrough events, reducing uncertainty and risk in CO2 injection. Additionally, introducing lagged correlation variables enhances the model's ability to capture complex interactions in time series data, offering valuable insights and methodological references for future productivity prediction research.
Optimizing Workforce Capacity Planning and Enhancing Productivity Through Integrated People Analytics at Saipem
Authors: Caro G. Di , Boscacci A. , D’Angeli F. , Musci V. , Sartini E.
Published: November 2024

Saipem has adopted an Integrated Capacity Planning approach to align workforce capacity with project needs. It relies on Business Intelligence and HR and project data to map employees’ skills and experiences, and to support strategic decisions. The approach is part of the Company Sustainable People Strategy, which aims to develop the competencies and culture for the energy transition and innovation. For the mapping of competencies, Saipem uses the ESCO (European Skills, Competences, Qualifications and Occupations) system and the Quick competence mapping method, which allows to quickly identify the key competencies of a role or a person.
Achieving Circular Economy Through Optimizing Pipeline Repair
Authors: Al-Otaibi Ahmad , Al-Omair Muhammad , Al-Rashidi Khalid
Published: November 2024

Circular economy (CE) is one of the most important pillars to attain operational excellence. This is specially the case in the oil and gas industry, where implementing circular economy initiatives could play a key role to ensure operations sustainability and resource saving. From this perspective, tangible benefits would be realized by tackling routine operational challenges with innovative and out of the box solutions. In addition, one of the most attractive areas to identify such opportunities for circularity is pipeline repair. This paper illustrates a case where a damaged pipeline repair was optimized to allow for expediting the execution duration, reducing the required repair scope, and availing additional material to be re-utilized for other repair jobs in the same field. This was achieved by opting to reroute the targeted pipeline instead of direct replacement.

As a background, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) was carried out on three-hundred and ninety (390) piping spools of an oil transporting pipeline. This inspection revealed a total of seventy-one (71) corroded piping spools at nine (9) different locations distributed along the whole line, with the remaining tested spools in a healthy condition. In addition, the wall thickness of the corroded spools was measured to be below the minimum requirements. Typically, these identified sections will be replaced to return the line back to service. Nevertheless, upon reviewing and verifying the line layout, process parameters, overall pipelines network, and magnitude of the required repair, it was clear that an alternative approach to restore the line would be more beneficial, and will lead to major CE benefits, while ensuring that the system performs its intended function. In this innovative approach, the pipeline will be routed and connected to another nearby pipeline, leading to the same destination. Figures 1 and 2 below shows the existing and modified layouts.

As a result, the replacement of seventy-one (71) corroded piping spools was avoided and three-hundred and nineteen (319) healthy spools were dismantled and re-utilized for other repair activities. Furthermore, such optimization has resulted in a major cost avoidance of around 471,296 USD related to cost of material and contractor activities.

It is worth noting that this evaluation philosophy will be the baseline for future assessment of similar cases, which will ensure taking full advantage of circular economy principles. Moreover, additional gains include expediting the time to return the line back to service, and reducing the distance required for inspection.
Mechanistic understanding of the Nucleotide Excision Repair: structural bases of damage detection process by UvrA and lesion hand-off to UvrB.
Authors: Genta Marianna , Ferrara Giulia , Capelli Riccardo , Rondelli Diego , Sertic Sarah , Bolognesi Martino , Rizzi Menico , Rossi Franca , Jeruzalmi David , Chaves-Sanjuan Antonio , Miggiano Riccardo
Published: November 2024

Nucleotide excision repair (NER) represents one of the major molecular machineries that control chromosome stability in all living species. In Eubacteria, the initial stages of the repair process are carried out by the UvrABC excinuclease complex. Despite the wealth of structural data available, some crucial details of the pathway remain elusive. In this study, we present a structural investigation of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis UvrA-UvrB complex and of the UvrA dimer, both in presence of damaged DNA. Our analyses have yielded new insights into the DNA binding mode of UvrA, as well as an unexplored conformation of some important regions involved in DNA coordination. Furthermore, we determined the molecular events related to the sequential binding of UvrB, leading to the formation of the uncharacterized UvrA2UvrB-DNA and the UvrA2UvrB2-DNA complexes which we interpreted as hierarchical steps initiating the DNA repair cascade in NER pathway.
Efficacy, Safety, and Risk Factors of Thermal Ablation for Follicular Thyroid Neoplasms: A Multicentric Study
Authors: Zhou Xinyi , Fan Bo-Qiang , He Jun-feng , Zhou Ying , Wu Song-song , Wang Shu-rong , Dong Gang , Guo Jian-qin , Wei Ying , Zhao Zhenlong , Wu Jie , Cao Shiliang , Yu Na , Li Yan , Peng Lili , Yu Ming-an
Published: November 2024

Purpose
To assess the efficacy and safety of thermal ablation (TA) in managing follicular thyroid neoplasms (FN).
Methods
This multicenter retrospective study involved participants diagnosed with FN across nine hospitals, undergoing microwave ablation or radiofrequency ablation from January 2014 to January 2024. Primary outcomes assessed were technical success and disease progression, with secondary outcomes including tumor size and volume changes, complete tumor disappearance, complications, and side effects. Subgroup analyses aimed to identify factors influencing tumor progression and complete disappearance.
Results
The study enrolled 375 patients (mean age: 43.2 years ± 14.9 [standard deviation]; 298 women) with 482 FNs, tracked over an average of 23.6 months, achieving a 100% technical success rate. Disease progression was observed in 4.8% (18/375) of patients, with a local recurrence rate of 3.7% (14/375) and new neoplasm occurrence of 1.1% (4/375). Multifocal neoplasms emerged as an independent risk factor for disease progression (hazard ratio [HR], 3.48; 95% CI, 1.16–10.45; P = .026). Tumor volume significantly reduced (P < .001), particularly within 1–3 months post-ablation, with complete tumor disappearance observed in 10.4% (39/375) of cases, more likely in tumors smaller than 2 cm (HR, .11; 95% CI, .06-.23; P < .001). Complications occurred in 2.9% of patients, with major events in 2.1% and minor in 0.8%.
Conclusion
TA is a safe and efficacious method for treating FN, showing low rates of disease progression and complications. Optimal outcomes may be achieved in patients with unifocal FN and neoplasms under 2 cm.
Local seismic response in the historical centre of Nafplio (Greece) as a tool for seismic risk management
Authors: Fiorucci Matteo , martino salvatore , Antonielli Benedetta , Charalampopoulou Vasiliki (Betty) , Ciampi Paolo , Hussain Yawar , Iannucci Roberto , Inciocchi Daniele , Karastathis Vassilis , Maniatakis Charilaos , Marinou Eirini , Mouzakiotis Aggelos , Rivellino Stefano , Saroglou Charalampos , Tsirogianni Athina , Bozzano Francesca
Published: November 2024

Local seismic response analysis is a crucial tool for assessing site-specific seismic hazards, particularly in urban areas of cultural and historical significance. However, these analyses often overlook the complexities of near-surface geological and topographical conditions, especially in regions with medium to high seismic activity. This study, funded by the H2020RISE-Marie Curie Action in the framework of the STABLE (STructural stABiLity risk assEssment) project, focuses on the local seismic response of the Nafplio (Greece), an urban area rich in cultural heritage. By adopting an integrated methodology, we aim to enhance the understanding of seismic risk in complex subsoil environments. The approach involves: i) constructing a 3D geological model of the area's subsoil setting, including it in an engineering geological modelling; ii) estimating the resonance frequency of the soft soils using ambient seismic noise measurements and earthquake-based geophysical techniques; iii) generating response spectra for three return periods of 50, 475, and 2000 years using both 1D and 2D numerical modelling approaches. The combined geophysical and numerical modelling results provide a more robust framework for evaluating local seismic amplification due to both stratigraphic and topographic features, offering valuable insights for disaster risk mitigation and resilience planning in seismic-prone urban areas.
The Effective Control of Harmful Components in Smoke Using a Novel Laser- Based Smoking Device
Authors: Chen Chen , Wang Xinyuan , Ye Yajun , Guo Chunsheng , Na Baodan , Ning Xiaoping , Tian Ye , Li Linda , Zhao Xingquan , Du He
Published: November 2024

Smoking remains a significant global health issue, contributing to a variety of diseases and premature death. The combustion process during smoking produces a complex mixture of harmful compounds, many of which are known carcinogens. For these reasons, we have developed a novel smoking method using laser ignition as an alternative approach to reduce the formation of harmful compounds in cigarette smoke. We used a high-precision laser system to ignite commercial cigarettes. The resulting smoke composition was then compared to that of traditional flame ignition. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was employed to analyze the smoke samples, focusing on compounds known to have severe health risks. The results show that, compared to flame ignition, the levels of these compounds were significantly reduced with laser ignition, with reductions as high as 55.5%. These findings suggest that laser ignition may offer a safer alternative for tobacco consumers, potentially reducing some health risks associated with smoking. Moreover, it may have beneficial effects on controlling secondhand smoke's impact on the environment and biological health.
Evidence of rapid rise in population immunity from subclinical infections in Pakistan from pre-vaccination serial serosurveys in Pakistan
Authors: Iqbal Junaid , Hasan Zahra , Habib Muhammad Atif , Malik Asma Abdul , Muhammad Sajid , Begum Kehkashan , Zuberi Rabia , Umer Muhammad , Ikram Aamer , Soofi Sajid Bashir , Cousens Simon , Bhutta Zulfiqar A.
Published: November 2024

Background: Understanding factors associated with protective immunity against emerging viral infections is crucial for global health. Pakistan reported its first COVID-19 case on February 26, 2020, but compared to other countries, it experienced relatively low COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality between 2020 and 2022. The underlying reasons remain unclear. Our research aims to shed light on this crucial issue.
Methods:We conducted serial household surveys over 16 months (Rounds 1-4, July 2020 - November 2021) in urban (Karachi) and rural (Matiari) Sindh, sampling 1100 households and 3900 individuals. Our comprehensive approach included measuring antibodies in sera, testing a subset of respiratory samples for COVID-19 using RT-PCR and antigen tests, and measuring Hemoglobin, CRP, Vitamin D, and zinc in Round 1.
Results Participants showed 23% (95% CI 21.9-24.5) antibody seroprevalence in round 1, increasing across rounds to 29% (95% CI 27.4-30.6), 49% (95% CI 47.2-50.9) and 79% (95% CI 77.4-80.8). Urban residents had 2.6 times (95% CI 1.9-3.6) higher odds of seropositivity than rural residents. Seropositivity did not differ between genders. Individuals aged 20-49 had 7.5 (95% CI 4.6-12.4) times higher odds of seropositivity compared to children aged 0-4. Most participants were asymptomatic, with no reported mortality. Vitamin D deficiency was linked to seroprevalence. COVID-19 was confirmed in 1.8% of individuals via RT-PCR and antigen tests.
Conclusions: The data suggests a steady increase in humoral immunity in Pakistan, likely due to increased transmission and potential cross-protective immunity, which may be associated with asymptomatic disease, leading to the reduction of morbidity and mortality observed.
Dietary Probiotic Ingestion is Associated with Elevated Enterolignans Concentration in the United States Population, evidenced by NHANES 1999-2010
Authors: Dong Jialong , Zhou Yifan , Huang Liufang , Wang Chuchu , Wei Jin , Abuduxukuer KaiweiSa , Shi Wenming , Li Yongzhen , Luo Jianfeng , Peng Qing
Published: November 2024

Purpose
To investigate associations between enterolignans concentration and probiotic ingestion in a nationally representative sample of the US population.
Methods
Dietary recall data and urinary concentrations of enterolignans were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999 − 2010. In total, 12,358 participants were deemed eligible for the current study. Associations between enterolignans and dietary probiotic ingestion were analyzed using linear regression, and demographic, socioeconomic, health condition, and lifestyle-related covariates were fully adjusted as potential confounders.
Results
Participants with dietary probiotic ingestion had higher urinary concentrations of enterolignans, and probiotic ingestion showed robust and profound positive correlations with enterolignans after fully adjusted with multiple confounders (all p values<0.005). Frequent probiotic consumption exerts a more profound and positive impact on enterolignans concentrations than Infrequent probiotic consumption, according to correlation coefficient values in both univariate and multivariate analyses.
Conclusion
It is the first epidemiological study to provide empirical evidence of the positive associations between probiotic ingestion and a kind of health-beneficial intestinal microbiota metabolites, enterolignans.
Effect of Pr and In Doping on Electrochemical Properties of Y-BaZrO3
Authors: Yang Chunli , Wang Lei , Li Jun , Yao Wei , Liang Yanru , Wang Kai , sining Yun
Published: November 2024

Y doped BaZrO3 is a promising cermet hydrogen separation membrane material. The conductivity of BaZrO3 ceramics depends on the concentration of their oxygen vacancies. In this study, BaZrO3 ceramics doped with In and Pr were prepared by citrate sol-gel combustion method. The effects of doping on ceramic phase structure, oxygen vacancies and micromorphology were studied by XRD, Raman spectroscopy, XPS and SEM techniques. The conductivity, hydrogen permeability and stability of BaZr0.7Y0.2In0.1O3−δ(BZYI), BaZr0.7Y0.2Pr0.1O3−δ(BZYP) ceramics were tested. After doping, The conductivity of BaZr0.7Y0.2In0.1O3−δ(BZYI) is the largest, reaching 9.98×10− 3 S·cm− 1. The hydrogen permeation fluxes of BZYI and BZYP samples were observed to reach 3.50×10− 9 mol•cm− 2•s− 1 and 2.60×10− 9 mol•cm− 2•s− 1, respectively, upon the introduction of water vapor during the purge test conducted at 900℃. Subsequently, the samples underwent treatment in boiling water and a 100% CO2 atmosphere at 900℃ for 3 hours. XRD, Raman spectroscopy, and SEM analyses revealed the absence of any heterophase, thus indicating the excellent stability of the sample
Improving Datacenter Networking Operations with Large Language Models and Chat Operations
Authors: PECI FATOS , HAMITI ENVER
Published: November 2024

Maintaining a sizable global network requires a vast number of human resources, who are knowledgeable about networks and capable of responding swiftly to various situations. To reduce the burden and number of engineers required to monitor and operate these enormous and complicated networks, artificial intelligence provides an extra tool for managing complex jobs, processing data, and making choices. The usage of large language models has been demonstrated to be crucial in maintaining Service Level Agreements (SLAs), reducing Mean Time to Repair (MTTR), and enhancing the overall availability of large-scale networks, such as those found at Microsoft Azure, Google GCP, and Amazon AWS. Our methodology centres on establishing an interface that leverages natural language processing (NLP) and chat operations (chatops) to facilitate the diagnosis and recovery of services between human engineers and large-scale networks. This approach has proven to improve the ability of engineers to support complex issues and support a greater volume of escalated cases. Ultimately, this has improved MTTR and the overall availability of large-scale data centre networks. The chatops approach reduces the number of tools with which engineers operate daily, thus decreasing the chances of introducing errors during maintenance or troubleshooting processes.
Using Microbial Inoculants for Enhancing Decomposition of Citywaste and Biohythane Production
Authors: Nisar Amna , Farid Muhammad Fayyaz , Ijaz Memoona
Published: November 2024

Biohythane is a renewable energy source that carries great importance owing to its capacity to tackle energy security, environmental issues, and sustainable development goals. The current research focus on the the advantages of biohythane use as compared to the use of hydrogen and methane, as separate biofuels.The attention has been focused on the biohythane production from organic wastes, the most abundant organic substrates treated by anaerobic digestion, reporting the main milestones and the future trends. This research has primarily centered on the utilization of city waste to produce biohythane gases with the help of different consortia of microbes. Four treatments were used: T1: Control, T2: Organic waste + Acidithiobacillus thioxidans/Acidithiobacillus ferroxidans,T3: Organic waste + Methanosarcina thermophila / Methanobacterium beijingense and T4: Organicwaste + Acidithiobacillusthioxidans)/Acidithiobacillus ferroxidans) + Methanosarcina thermophila / Methanobacterium beijingense.The results indicated that the mean maximum value of CH4 was 74.2% in T4 where organic waste was used along with bacterial consortia followed by 64% in T2.The highest value of H2 was 14.96% in T4 followed by 10.53% in T3. The maximum value of H2S was 63.3ppm in T4 followed by 54.66ppm in T2. The highest value of CO was 850ppm in T2 followed by 680ppm in T3. Sulfur-oxidizing bacteria, iron-oxidizing bacteria, and methane-producing bacteria were also used to enhance decomposition. Their cultures were obtained from local sources, and they were applied before the start of composting. It was concluded that the highest percentage of gases (CH4 ,H2S, H2 and CO) were obtained from the anaerobic digestion where hydrogen-producing bacteria, methane-producing bacteria, and organic waste were applied together.
Standardized translaminar spinal tethering to prevent proximal junctional kyphosis in adult spinal deformity correction surgery
Authors: Sargut Tarik Alp , Almahozi Ahmad , Verigos Emmanouil , Fekonja Lucius , Alsolivany Joan , Tkatschenko Dimitri , Früh Anton , Bayerl Simon , Hecht Nils , Vajkoczy Peter
Published: November 2024

Purpose:This study evaluated whether standardized proximal translaminar spinal tethering at the upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) +1 and UIV+2 reduces the incidence of proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and the need for revision surgery in patients undergoing thoraco-lumbar deformity correction for adult spinal deformity (ASD).
Methods:A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 59 adult patients who underwent thoraco-lumbar deformity correction surgery between October 2019 and August 2023. Patients were categorized into tethered (T) and non-tethered (NT) groups. Radiographic measurements were performed preoperatively, early postoperatively (≤3 months), and late postoperatively (>3 months) to assess PJK, defined as a proximal junctional angle (PJA) ≥ 10° and ≥ 10° greater than the corresponding preoperative measurement.
Results:Overall, 18 patients (30.5%) developed PJK, with no significant difference between tethered (12%) and non-tethered (20.5%) patients within the first 3 months (p=0.384). However, at late follow-up, the PJK rate was significantly higher in non-tethered (41.1%) compared to tethered (16%) patients (p=0.037), with non-tethered patients being 3.67 times more likely to develop PJK (95% CI = 1.03-13.07). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a significant reduction in time-dependent PJK development for tethered patients (p=0.027). Revision surgery was required in 11.8% of non-tethered patients compared to 4% of tethered patients (p=0.289).
Conclusion:Proximal translaminar tethering at UIV+1 and UIV+2 effectively reduces the incidence of PJK in patients undergoing thoraco-lumbar deformity correction. However, the effect on surgical revision rates due to PJK remains unclear, warranting further long-term prospective studies.
Molecular Adaptations in MMP Genes Underpin Decompression Sickness Resistance in Cetaceans
Authors: Zhang Ya , Lv Wenjun , Yan Wen , Guo Boxiong , Ren Wenhua , Yang Guang
Published: November 2024

Cetaceans are a unique group of marine mammals that have evolved from terrestrial to fully aquatic life. In aquatic environments, they face the risk of decompression sickness due to diving. The MMPs gene family encodes matrix metalloproteinases, which are involved in collagen degradation. We analyzed 1,058 genes from 46 species, focusing on cetaceans and diving marine mammals, with terrestrial mammals as the background. Our findings show that the MMP gene family has undergone positive selection in cetaceans and diving marine mammals, with nine genes exhibiting accelerated evolution. Specifically, the N316S mutation in MMP9 of whales, located in the Fibronectin type-II domain, inhibits collagen degradation by MMP9, as confirmed by Western blot. Mass spectrometry also revealed more post-translational modifications in whale MMP9 compared to terrestrial mammals, with modification sites overlapping the mutation sites. These results shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying adaptive evolution in MMPs for cetaceans and other marine mammals in relation to decompression sickness.
Mining robust in situ phosphorus-accumulating organisms via single-cell RACS-Culture for rational ecosystem engineering
Authors: Xu Jian , Xiaoyan Jing , Pan Huihui , Gong Yanhai , Ren Yishang , Wang Liyan , Mu Runzhi , Sun Pengcheng , Diao Zhidian , Meng Yu , Huang Liming , Wang Xixian , Zhao Tingbin , Zhang Jia , Ji Yuetong , Ma Bo , Jing Yushu
Published: November 2024

Rational engineering of ecosystems is often hindered by the inability to rapidly identify, profile, culture and apply the microbes that underlie target metabolic activity in situ. Here, we developed an In-situ Metabolism driven Sorting, Culture and Augmentation (IMSCA) strategy via Raman-activated Cell Sorting coupled to single-cell culture (scRACS-Culture), and demonstrated it through the mining of in situ polyphosphate-accumulating organisms (PAOs) for wastewater treatment. Single-cell polyphosphate-accumulating activities in situ were quantitatively assessed directly from environmental samples via the polyphosphate band in Raman spectrum, revealing their remarkable distinction from those from pure cultures. Among cells with the highest in situ activities and then sorted for one-cell-one-well cultivation are Micrococcus luteum MCI5-8, which however shows very low activity as pure culture. This organism represents a new type of PAO due to its lack of anaerobic phosphate release, reliance on glycogen instead of polyhydroxyalkanoate as energy storage form, and incapability of denitrification. Process redesign based on these novel physiological traits showed that time- and location-specific introduction of MCI5-8 into actual wastewater elevated phosphorus removal efficiency from 45% to 89% in an anaerobic-anoxic-aerobic (AAO) reactor. Therefore, by label-freely profiling, sorting and cultivating individual cells based on in situ metabolism in a “screen-first culture-second” manner, IMSCA is a powerful and broadly applicable strategy for efficient bioresource mining and rational ecosystem engineering.
Enhancing Apoptosis and Ferroptosis: Synergistic Effects of Sorafenib and Dasatinib Nano-systems in Overcoming Drug Resistance in MULV-4 Cell lines
Authors: Eini Mohammad , Babavalian Hamid , Salimi Ali
Published: November 2024

Sorafenib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used in hepatic and hematologic malignancies, often leads to drug resistance in cancer cells over time. This study explores the synergistic effects of sorafenib, dasatinib, and their respective PCL-based nano-systems in overcoming resistance mechanisms. The research reveals an orchestrated modulation of gene expression, upregulating pro-apoptotic genes like Bax and downregulating anti-apoptotic genes such as GPX4, NRF2, and SLC7A11, resulting in cancer cell death. These treatments enhance apoptosis, elevate ROS levels, reduce GPX4 activity, and inhibit colony formation, suggesting a dual induction of ferroptosis and apoptosis pathways. The study underscores the potential of nanocarriers in enhancing the efficacy of sorafenib and dasatinib against resistant cancer cells, providing insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying their anti-cancer effects.
The Research on Landslide Detection in Remote Sensing Images Based on Improved DeepLabv3+ Method
Authors: li yong
Published: November 2024

In response to issues with existing classical semantic segmentation models, such as inaccurate landslide edge extraction in high-resolution images, large numbers of network parameters, and long training times, this paper proposes a lightweight landslide detection model, LDNet (Landslide Detection Network), based on DeepLabv3+ and a dual attention mechanism. LDNet uses the lightweight network MobileNetv2 to replace the Xception backbone of DeepLabv3+, thereby reducing model parameters and improving training speed. Additionally, the model incorporates a dual attention mechanism from the lightweight Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) to more accurately and efficiently detect landslide features. The model underwent dataset creation, training, detection, and accuracy evaluation. Results show that the improved LDNet model significantly enhances reliability in landslide detection, achieving values of 93.37%, 91.93%, 86.30%, 89.79%, and 95.28% for P, R, IoU, mIoU, and OA, respectively, representing improvements of 14.81%, 13.25%, 14.58%, 14.27%, and 13.71% compared to the original DeepLabv3+ network. Moreover, LDNet outperforms classical semantic segmentation models such as UNet and PSPNet in terms of recognition accuracy, while having significantly fewer parameters and shorter training times. The model also demonstrates good generalization capability in tests conducted in other regions, ensuring extraction accuracy while significantly reducing the number of parameters. It meets real-time requirements, enabling rapid and accurate landslide detection, and shows promising potential for widespread application.
Mechanical Properties of Palm Oil Waste Blended Cement-Based Concrete Containing Spent Garnet as Partial Fine Aggregate Replacement
Authors: Parsuraman Jeyasaraniya , Othman Rokiah , Sulaiman Mohd Arif , Muthusamy Khairunisa , Putrajaya Ramadhansyah , Duraisamy Youventharan
Published: November 2024

The growing emphasis on sustainability in construction has sparked increased interest in sustainable materials, particularly the development of green concrete to address environmental concerns. Sand, a crucial component in various construction materials and industries, faces rising demand driven by population growth and improved living standards; however, its extraction can significantly disrupt river ecosystems. In Malaysia, spent garnet from ship sandblasting has emerged as a promising additive to enhance concrete performance, with research indicating its positive effects on compressive strength. This study investigates the effect of incorporating spent garnet as a partial replacement for fine aggregates on the mechanical properties of concrete. It aims to determine the optimum percentage of spent garnet that can effectively replace fine aggregates while achieving a concrete strength of 30 MPa within 28 days. The research utilizes water-cement ratios of 0.45, 0.50, and 0.55 in the mix design, alongside a conventional cement-sand ratio. Spent garnet is incorporated at varying percentages from 0% to 40%, with 10% palm oil fuel ash (POFA) substituting for cement. A total of 135 cubes and cylinders were prepared, and a slump test was conducted in accordance with ASTM C1437 standards. The specimens were cured in a tank for 7, 14, and 28 days before undergoing compressive strength and splitting tensile tests, following ASTM C109 specifications. The sieve analysis indicated that sand performs better than spent garnet, particularly at finer sieve sizes, where spent garnet underperforms. In terms of concrete workability, higher water-to-cement (w/c) ratios improved workability with increased spent garnet content, while lower ratios reduced it. The optimal compressive and splitting tensile strength was achieved with 30% spent garnet (SG) across all w/c ratios, although higher SG levels resulted in diminished strength. It is recommended that future research explore the long-term durability of concrete incorporating spent garnet and evaluate its environmental impacts more comprehensively. Additionally, further studies could investigate alternative sustainable additives and their combined effects on concrete performance to enhance sustainability in construction practices.
Using a modified whale optimization algorithm to solve dynamic arrival flights sequencing problem
Authors: Gao Jinmin , Le Meilong , Li Jingnan
Published: November 2024

For solving dynamic arrival flights sequencing problem, a Modified Whale Optimization Algorithm (MWOA) is proposed. The method can avoid WOA’s disadvantage in several aspects, such as local optimum stuck and solution accuracy degradation. To balance the exploration and exploitation abilities, a nonlinear dynamic strategy based on Branin function for updating the control parameter is given. Chaotic mutation based on a sine function is applied to avoid its falling into local optimum. Mirror selection strategy is adopted in iteration to increase convergence speed. The early maturity detection through Gauss vibration is added to improve local mining and global searching abilities. Twenty-five well-known benchmark test functions are used to test the algorithm. The results show MWOA outperforms other six state-of-the-art optimization algorithms which include Particle Swarm Optimization(PSO), Whale Optimization Algorithm(WOA), Improved PSO(IPSO), β-hill Climbing Modified WOA(BMWOA), Harris Hawks Optimization(HHO), WOA-PSO in terms of solution accuracy andconvergence speed. Then, all the above-mentioned seven algorithms, traditional first-come-first-serve(FCFS) sequencing strategy, Immune Teaching-Learning Based Optimization(ITLBO), PSO based on the Random Key representation(PSORK) and Genetic Algorithm-PSO(GA-PSO) are applied to solve the arrival flights sequencing model. The results show MWOA outperforms the nine algorithms and FCFS strategy. The landing efficiency improved is 16.90%, 2.26%, 2.26%, 2.89%, 2.75%, 2.40%, 1.99%, 2.26%, 7.26% and 3.55% respectively compared with FCFS, PSO, WOA, IPSO, BMWOA, HHO, WOA-PSO, GA-PSO, ITLBO and PSORK. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm also has best performance in terms of optimality, reliability, robustness and will-time delay. The Wilcoxon tests show MWOA is significantly different to other algorithms.
Thermal analysis of space station windows in low Earth orbit. Intermaterial comparison of fused silica and acrylic glass
Authors: GALUPPI Laura , ROYER-CARFAGNI Gianni
Published: November 2024

Calculating the temperatures of windows of space stations in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is crucial for ensuring their structural integrity. We present a comprehensive thermal analysis that considers direct solar radiation, Earth’s albedo effect, infrared radiation from the Earth and convective heat exchange with the internal environment. The thermal balance equation incorporates the time variation of these contributions due to orbital motion for windows with different orientations, to determine the temperature of the materials, factoring in key parameters such as absorptivity, transmissivity, reflectivity, and their dependence on the radiation wavelength spectrum. Referring to the conditions of the Cupola of the International Space Station as a paradigmatic example, we compare the thermal performance of two common window materials: fused silica and acrylic glass. Our results indicate that the higher transmissivity of fused silica makes it insensitive to solar and albedo radiation, reducing temperature values and their dependence on plate thickness and exposure variability due to orbital motion. In contrast, the higher absorptivity of acrylic glass results in much higher temperatures, proportional to the thickness, with a cyclical dependence on the orbital period. This analysis provides insights for the design and selection of window materials in space station construction, ensuring their durability and functionality in the conditions of LEO.
Voice-Assisted Multimodal Fusion Network for Difficult Airway Assessment
Authors: Li Xiaofan , Zhang Guangchao , Ye Wenjin , Peng Bo , Yao Yuan
Published: November 2024

Difficult airway management poses significant risks in anesthesia and emergency medicine, including hypoxemia and airway injury. While image-based methods have improved airway assessment, they often fail to capture functional information like airway patency and vocal cord movement. To address this, we propose VAMF-Net (Voice-Assisted Multimodal Fusion Network), which integrates three-view airway images with voice data to improve difficult airway evaluation accuracy. VAMF-Net employs an early fusion strategy of multi-view image features with contrastive learning pretraining, enabling early interaction between views to capture complementary information. Furthermore, We introduce a voice-assisted cross-attention (VCA) module, which prioritizes image data as the primary source while using voice data as supplementary input. A dataset of 1,106 samples (89 difficult and 1017 easy cases) was constructed, with each sample including three airway images (frontal open mouth, frontal tongue extended, and side head tilted back) and voice data. VAMF-Net achieved an AUC of 0.917, sensitivity of 0.931, and specificity of 0.815, demonstrating superior performance compared to existing methods.
The epigenome underlying a novel and non-parental stress-adaptive phenotype created by transgressive segregation
Authors: Kitazumi Ai , Pabuayon Isaiah Catalino M. , Cushman Kevin R. , Singh Rakesh Kumar , Hussain Waseem , Ramos Joie , Kawahara Yoshihiro , Reyes Benildo G. de los
Published: November 2024

Transgressive segregation offers a non-reductionist strategy for breeding crops with novel mechanisms for complex adaptive traits through the omnigenic paradigm. While this phenomenon has been linked to complementation and epistatic effects, the contribution of the epigenome is unknown. We examined a well-characterized recombinant inbred population (F9) of Oryza sativa (rice) derived from parents of wide genetic contrast (IR29/indica x Pokkali/aus) to understand the impact of mild genomic shock to the epigenomic and chromatin landscapes of a transgressive segregant with superior tolerance to hyper-salinity stress. Analysis of the genome, methylome, Topographically Associating Domain (TAD), and transcriptome across parents and recombinants revealed that the novelty of the outlier progeny is associated with peculiar features being an outcome of recombination between the longer chromatins of indica and shorter chromatins of aus. This is characterized by the downsizing of recombinant genome due to the shedding of transposon loci and other repetitive sequences. Transposon shedding was largely responsible for the most extreme hypomethylation of the transgressive epigenome in all of CG, CHG and CHH contexts but with the most peculiarity in the CHH context affecting both the intergenic and genic spaces. The consequence was a novel chromatin profile characterized by uniform segmentation of TADs in all affected chromosomes. This defining epigenomic profile of the transgressive segregant positively correlated with the reduction of stochastic variability in the salinity stress response transcriptome especially the genes affected by the non-parental TAD segmentation, many of which function in stress-related and growth-related responses.
Small-target traffic sign detection based on improved YOLOv8
Authors: Ma Yujiao , Gao Bin , Li Linlin , Li Yutong , Liu Shutian , Liu Zhengjun
Published: November 2024

To address the challenges of high proportions of small traffic signs and significant environmental interference in road traffic scenarios, an improved YOLOv8 network specifically designed for small traffic sign detection is proposed. We first integrated BRA based on the Transformer architecture into the C2f network structure of YOLOv8n. This integration aims to reduce missed detections of small objects and improve the network’s perception of small targets. In addition, CARAFE was employed to retain complex image feature information and reduce the loss of target information without significantly increasing model complexity and parameters. This approach enhances the model’s accuracy and generalization capability. The inner-IOU loss function based on auxiliary bounding boxes was also introduced. The improved method was trained on the public traffic sign dataset CCTSDB, achieving a detection accuracy of 97.5%, which is 1.8% more than the original algorithm, and it also increases detection speed by 11 FPS. Experimental results indicate that the improved YOLOv8 network effectively detects traffic signs in complex road scenarios.
Evolution and Transmission Dynamics of Wild Poliovirus in Pakistan and Afghanistan (2012-2023): implications for global polio eradication
Authors: Jorgensen David , Pons-Salort Margarita , Salman Muhammad , Khurshid Adnan , Arshad Yasir , Mahmood Nayab , Candido Darlan Da Silva , Kroiss Steve , Lyons Hil , Grassly Nicholas , Alam Muhammad
Published: November 2024

Despite concerted global vaccination efforts, wild poliovirus remains endemic in two countries in 2024, Pakistan and Afghanistan. This study uses phylogeographic analysis of poliovirus genetic and epidemiological data from clinical and wastewater surveillance to identify the causes of poliovirus persistence and routes of spread over the last decade (2012 to 2023). Poliovirus genetic diversity declined post-2020, with the die-out of one of two major genetic clusters and recent detections are now close genetic relatives. We find that high-risk and hard-to-access regions have been key to persistent polio transmission over the past decade, supporting transmission when it had stopped elsewhere. Karachi, one of the most densely populated cities globally, has acted as a major hub for the amplification and spread of poliovirus to other regions, many of which we show to be dead-end for onwards transmission despite frequent virus detection. This information has been used to guide polio vaccination and surveillance.
Long COVID’s Chronic Toll: A Case Report on Unresolved Neuromuscular and Psychological Symptoms
Authors: Rezaei Ahmad Reza , Lenzen Dieter
Published: November 2024

SARS-CoV-2, the airborne virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, is notorious for causing a range of health issues that persist or arise following an initial COVID-19 infection in a large number of patients. Throughout the pandemic, a substantial number of individuals worldwide who contracted SARS-CoV-2 have reported long-lasting, minor to incapacitating signs and symptoms, ranging from sore throat, fatigue, and cough to more serious neurological and psychological impacts. These lingering effects have led to the adoption of various terms such as "post-COVID-19 condition," "long COVID," "long-haul COVID," and "post-acute sequelae of COVID-19" (PASC), to describe the ongoing burden of disease. In this case report, we present a 55-year-old German male patient who experienced severe neuromuscular and psychological complications following a SARS-CoV-2 infection, with special emphasis on German "long-COVID outpatient clinics," which aim to monitor, rehabilitate, and provide comprehensive care for patients suffering from these post-COVID conditions, ensuring adequate support and ongoing follow-up care.
Embracing or Resisting? Feminist Beliefs and the Internalization of Body Ideals in China
Authors: Peng Bo , Du Heng , Ha Amy Sau-Ching
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the mediating role of thin-ideal and fit-ideal internalization in the relationship between media pressure and body satisfaction among young Chinese women (N = 291) and further examined the moderating influence of feminist beliefs on these pathways. Controlling regional demographics and BMI, results revealed that both thin-ideal and fit-ideal internalization negatively mediated the association between media pressure and body satisfaction. Furthermore, feminist beliefs played a complex and paradoxical role, strengthening the relationship between media pressure and both forms of ideal internalization, while simultaneously mitigating the negative impact of these internalized ideals on body satisfaction. These findings highlight the culturally specific nuances of body image ideals and the complex interplay of feminist beliefs in navigating sociocultural pressures related to appearance. The study underscores the need for culturally sensitive approaches to promoting positive body image among young women in China and suggests the potential value of integrating feminist principles into body image issues.