bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delivery of Methane Measurement Systems for Production Assets Aligned with OGMP 2.0 Levels 4 and 5
Authors: Lowe Jon , Evans Peter , Newman David
Published: September 2024

bp stated in 2020 that methane measurement systems would be deployed across all of its major operated oil and gas processing site by the end of 2023. This initiative was to enable bp to better understand the nature of methane emissions across its oil and gas production chain.

Using a combination of conventional and currently deployed technology on our flares for volumetric flow measurement, flare gas analytical technology that states the heating value and composition of the flare gas, and a cloud based parametric model that calculates combustion efficiency (CE) and destruction release efficiency (DRE).

These results were then compared with simulated results using Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) modelling that derived estimates of volumetric flowrates at the installed flare meter position along with the estimates of the CE and DRE at the flare tip to determine real time emissions. These results and estimates challenged the traditionally accepted 98% emissions factor-based estimates of methane emissions and highlights the importance and value of measurement as the basis for targeted methane reductions.

A similar approach was used on large vents in that conventional and deployed technology of either volumetric or mass-based flow measurement was utilized with a gas chromatograph to derive the methane emissions.

For our gas fired stationary combustion equipment, conventional technology not used extensively in bp, Predictive Emissions Monitoring (PEMS), were deployed to determine the methane emissions from our gas fired equipment.

Whole-asset verification was achieved using drone-mounted spectrometers. The data is compared with the measurement results to determine the uncertainty of the asset's emissions and designed to fulfil the expectations of emergent regulations and reporting requirements to the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP 2.0).

However, the results also show how flare performance can be negatively impacted by environmental effects and changes in flare volumes and composition. As such, both detailed understanding of flare operation and continuous tracking are integral to flare management.

Emissions from gas fired equipment indicate that emission profiles are far more complex than factors based on fuel use imply.

Trends in methane emissions are more complex than general emission factors imply.
Accounting and Monitoring of Methane Emissions at an Oil and Gas Condensate Field: Challenges and Lessons Learned
Authors: Jallais N. , Mukangaliyev R. , Kuzembayeva N. , Nurmanova A.
Published: September 2024

Currently, the Republic of Kazakhstan has established a dedicated working group to develop a comprehensive roadmap for implementing the Strategy for achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, as approved by the Presidential Decree № 121 on February 2, 2023. This working group comprises of experts from various sectors, including government officials, environmental scientists, industry representatives, and international consultants. Their collective efforts are focused on creating actionable plans and policies that will ensure the effective implementation of the Strategy.

The primary objective of this Strategy is to ensure the sustainable development of Kazakhstan's economy in response to climate change. This ambitious objective requires a multifaceted approach, addressing emissions across all sectors of the economy, accounting methodology, integrating advanced technologies and practices to reduce carbon footprint.

The medium-term goal of the Strategy, in line with Kazakhstan's Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory, is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 15% by 2030 relative to the 1990 levels (unconditional target) and to achieve a 25% reduction with international support for the decarbonization of the economy (conditional target). To meet these targets, Kazakhstan has updated its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and enacted a new Environmental Code. This updated NDC reflects the country's commitment to international climate agreements and sets a clear path towards achieving its emissions reduction goals.
Interaction Between Skill and Risk Spaces in Operational Risk
Authors: Hudson T. G. L. , Hudson P. A. R. , Hudson P. T. W.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVES/SCOPE

The paper discusses the interaction between the competence and experience requirements of functions and the risk spaces that the functions exist in. It goes on to examine this in the managerial and executive levels as well.

METHODS PROCEDURES, PROCESS

The Skill Paper (SPE-199446) discusses the interaction between the competence and experience and how that delivers the skill to perform tasks successfully. The Risk Space paper (SPE-199401) defines and explores a method for understanding the multidimensionality of the risks to which operations are exposed. This paper combines the multidimensionality with the skill dimensions to develop understanding about how the interactions can be understood and managed.

RESULTS, OBSERVATIONS, CONCLUSIONS

The paper shows how different variables and dimensions create different requirements for tasks and positions. These requirements are typically not understood and documented in the formal task requirements for positions. This lack of understanding enables failures in the management of risk to propagate through the safety system as the requirements are implicit rather than explicit. These implicit requirements are usually overlooked and dismissed during review and restructuring processes.

The same process is used at the managerial and executive levels to highlight the different functional requirements for the management of organisational risk. The lack of explicit understanding of these requirements is then placed in the context of a number of larger organisational failures such as MC-252.

The paper proposes a number of methods for developing better understanding of which dimensions are under skilled management.

Please explain how this paper will present novel (new) or additive information to the existing body of literature that can be of benefit to a practicing engineer.

The paper presents understanding methods and approaches to enable organisations to better resource the key risk decision-making positions. In addition, the approach helps create understanding of organisational weaknesses that can be managed or strengthened. This enables oversight and resourcing to be structured in an efficient manner.

One of the trickier issues that organisations need to understand is that as they develop their systems, they also have to develop the skills and competencies or their managerial and supervisory staff. As the organisation moves from a reactive state to a proactive state and even a generative state, the key tasks and jobs that staff perform changes greatly. This paper looks to describe the different roles and skills that are required in a general sense, depending on the cultural level that they are at, and the risk spaces that they are managing. This development in job requirements is driven by the changes in structure as set out in SPE-220464 and also the variances in risk spaces and risk space that they are managing.
Decision Making in Organizations: New Research and Improvement Strategies
Authors: Meier T. , Bell K. , Krause T. R.
Published: September 2024

It is well-known among thought leaders in the safety community that decision making is an essential element in the complex of factors that go into making a safe workplace. Less-well known, are two critically important things that were discovered through our research: (1) The most critical role in decision making is the one played by leadership—it is leadership, not the front-line workers, who make the most important safety decisions; and (2) Leadership decision making is pivotal to the understanding and prevention of serious incidents and fatalities (SIFs).

In this presentation, we will examine the evidence supporting these statements, as well as the implications that follow for policy, strategy, and the role of senior leaders in SIF prevention.

Over the past 20 years, there has been extensive research in psychology—more specifically in brain science—that has deepened our understanding of decision making. An entirely new field has developed, which examines the cognitive processes involved and identifies natural failures in the process that undermine sound decision making. Based on this body of research, Krause Bell Group's founding partners, Tom Krause and Kristen Bell, began to study its implications on safety performance improvement. Questions began to arise about how this science could be applied, particularly to the prevention of SIFs: How important is decision making? Who makes safety-related decisions? Which decisions are most important? Could safety be improved through development of decision-making skills and knowledge?
Microbiota analysis of perimenopausal women experiencing recurrent vaginitis in conjunction with urinary tract infection
Authors: Bi Yingying , Wang Yuezhu , Li Wu , Chen Yuhang , Qin Jinlong , Zheng Huajun
Published: September 2024

Background
Recurrent vaginitis in conjunction with urinary tract infection (RV/UTI) in perimenopausal women is a common clinical condition that plagues doctors and patients. Its pathogenesis is not completely known, but the urogenital microbiota is thought to be involved. We compared the urogenital and gut microbiota of perimenopausal women experiencing RV/UTI with those of age-matched controls in an attempt to provide a new microbiological perspective and scheme for solving clinical problems.
Results
Fifty women of perimenopausal age who were diagnosed with RV/UTI and 50 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled. The urogenital and intestinal microbiota were analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing by collecting samples from the mouth, anus, urine, cervix, and upper and lower vaginal ends.In the microbiota of healthy perimenopausal women, the mouth site showed the highest richness, while the anus and mouth had the highest diversity. Compared with those in healthy controls, in the microbiota of patients with RV/UTI, the evenness of the upper vaginal ends, anus and cervix significantly increased, while the richness and diversity of the cervix significantly decreased. Lactobacillus accounted for 40.65% of the bacteria in the upper vaginal ends and 39.85% of the bacteria in the lower vaginal ends of healthy women of perimenopausal age, and there were no significant differences in Lactobacillus abundance among the patients with RV/UTI. The relative abundance of 54 genera and 97 species showed significant difference between patients and healthy samples, particularly in the cervix and urine. A total of 147 predicted pathways showed significant differences between patients and healthy controls, with the microbiota of the anus exhibited the greatest number of functional changes, followed by that of the urine microbiota. A random forest model composed of eight genera in the upper vaginal ends showed the highest discriminatory power (AUC 99.38%) to predict RV/UTI.
Conclusions
Our study provides insight into the nature of the urogenital and intestinal microbiota in perimenopausal women, and revealed significant changes of microbiota in the patients with RV/UTI. This will help characterize the relationship between the urogenital microbiota and RV/UTI, potentially aiding in diagnostic and therapeutic strategy development.
Efficacy of Gemcitabine Plus Nab-paclitaxel in Second-line Treatment of Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer: a Multicenter Retrospective Study in Turkey
Authors: Sezgin Yasin , Karhan Ogur , Aldemir Mehmet Naci , Urun Muslih , Ercek Berrak Mermit , Urakci Zuhat , Arvas Hayati , Tunc Sezai , Erdem Mehmet , Yerlikaya Halis , Ileri Serdar , Aydin Ibrahim , Bicer Abdurrahman , Komuroglu Ahmet Ufuk , Majidova Nargiz , Gokcek Savas , Demir Hacer , Yildiz Sedat , Akbas Sinem , Ozen Esra , Kahya Burcu Ulas , Sali Mursel , Anik Hicran , Aykut Talat , Araz Murat , Akan Ali , Ozcelik Melike , Sakin Abdullah , Aykan Musa Baris , Mehtiyev Mirmehdi , Demir Bilgin , Baser Mehmet Nuri , Sonmez Muge , Gulturk Ilkay , Avci Nilufer , Urvay Semiha , Arici Mustafa Ozgur , Kalender Mehmet Emin , Yildirim Mustafa , Solmaz Ali Alper , Gurbuz Mustafa , Guven Yakup
Published: September 2024

Despite numerous studies on second-line therapies in metastatic pancreatic cancer, there is no randomized study evaluating the efficacy of gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel as a second-line treatment. This study aims to examine the efficacy of gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel in second-line therapy. In this retrospective study, a total of 218 patients from 23 centers were included and the median age of 60.2 years. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS), secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), treatment efficacy based on ECOG performance status (PS), and tumor marker (CEA, CA 19 − 9) levels. In the second-line treatment with gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel, the median PFS was 5.1 months (95% CI, 5.6 to 7.1), and the median OS was 8.6 months (95% CI, 7.3 to 10.0). Median PFS was 6.6 months in patients with normal CEA levels compared to 4.4 months in patients with high CEA levels (P = 0.01). Median PFS was 6 months in patients with ECOG PS 0–1 compared to 3.8 months in patients with PS 2 (P < 0.01). This study demonstrates the contribution of gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel in both OS and PFS in second-line treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer. We believe it is a good option, especially for younger patients with good ECOG PS.
Forb diversity globally is harmed by nutrient enrichment but can be rescued by large mammalian herbivory
Authors: Nelson Rebecca , Sullivan Lauren , Hersch-Green Erika , Seabloom Eric , Borer Elizabeth , Tognetti Pedro , Adler Peter , Biederman Lori , Bugalho Miguel , Caldeira Maria , Cancela Juan , Carvalheiro Luísa G. , Catford Jane , Dickman Chris , Dolezal Aleksandra , Donohue Ian , Ebeling Anne , Eisenhauer Nico , Elgersma Kenneth , Eskelinen Anu , Estrada Catalina , Garbowski Magda , Graff Pamela , Gruner Daniel , Hagenah Nicole , Haider Sylvia , Harpole William , Hautier Yann , Jentsch Anke , Johanson Nicolina , Koerner Sally , Lannes Luciola , MacDougall Andrew , Martinson Holly , Morgan John , Venterink Harry Olde , Orr Devyn , Osborne Brooke , Peri Pablo , Power Sally , Raynaud Xavier , Risch Anita , Shrestha Mani , Smith Nicholas , Stevens Carly , Veen G.F. , Virtanen Risto , Wardle Glenda , Wolf Amelia , Young Alyssa , Harrison Susan
Published: September 2024

Forbs (“wildflowers”) are important contributors to grassland biodiversity and services, but they are vulnerable to environmental changes that affect their coexistence with grasses. In a factorial experiment at 94 sites on 6 continents, we tested the global generality of several broad predictions arising from previous studies: (1) Forb cover and richness decline under nutrient enrichment, particularly nitrogen enrichment, which benefits grasses at the expense of forbs. (2) Forb cover and richness increase under herbivory by large mammals, especially when nutrients are enriched. (3) Forb richness and cover are less affected by nutrient enrichment and herbivory in more arid climates, because water limitation reduces the impacts of competition with grasses. We found strong evidence for the first, partial support for the second, and no support for the third prediction. Forb richness and cover are reduced by nutrient addition, with nitrogen having the greatest effect; forb cover is enhanced by large mammal herbivory, although only under conditions of nutrient enrichment and high herbivore intensity; and forb richness is lower in more arid sites, but is not affected by consistent climate-nutrient or climate-herbivory interactions. We also found that nitrogen enrichment disproportionately affects forbs in certain families (Asteraceae, Fabaceae). Our results underscore that anthropogenic nitrogen addition is a major threat to grassland forbs and the ecosystem services they support, but grazing under high herbivore intensity can offset these nutrient effects.
Transgenerational toxicity of Aroclor 1232 by inhalational route in mouse model
Authors: Muthusamy Sivaselvakumar , Narayanan Ramanujam
Published: September 2024

Background
Aroclor 1232 is a commercial mixture of polychlorinated biphenyls with occupational toxicological implications as it contains semi-volatile congeners like PCB 77, along with highly lipophillic ones like PCB 180. We aimed to assess the trans-generational behavioral toxicities of this complex mixture in mice by inhalational dosing chamber. We also aimed to evaluate the penetrability of PCBs across placental and lactational routes in mice in this study.
Methods
We assessed the probable route of penetration in the first generation of litters using behavioral scores as surrogate markers of developmental toxicity. We also quantified plasma concentrations of key PCBs and anthropometric parameters for trans-generational comparability.
Results
PCBs are responsible for behavioral toxicities across one generation of mice by occupational exposures via the inhalational route. Behavioral scores of F1 and F2generation mice indicated as surrogate endpoints that PCBs are concentrated in lactating milk more than placental route in the next generation of mice. No significant lethality or effects on anthropometrical parameters were detected across one generation although the congeners were detected in plasma of the litters when they were 12–14 weeks age.
Conclusion
PCBs may pose both indoor and outdoor occupational hazard by inhalational routes and cause behavioral deficits across one generation by transfer via lactational routes. PCB 77 is more evident of penetrating trans-generationally and produces behavioral toxicities in subsequent generations. They definitely carry inhalational hazard in workplaces and outdoor as environmental pollutants and neuroendocrine disruptors.
Addressing the Need for Non-Invasive Lung Assessment with Time-Resolved Diffuse Optics
Authors: Maffeis Giulia , Serra Nicola , Bossi Alessandro , Avanzi Elisabetta , Mora Alberto Dalla , Sieno Laura Di , Cubeddu Rinaldo , Pifferi Antonio , Taroni Paola
Published: September 2024

Monitoring lungs functions is key for detecting several morbidities and pathologies. Photons in the 600-1300 nm range might have the potentiality to reach lungs and provide compositional and functional information. Yet, few optical techniques have been challenged non-invasively so far.
In this paper, we investigate the conditions to probe lungs using Time Domain Diffuse Optical spectroscopy (TD-DO). Counterintuitively, we discovered from Monte Carlo simulations that a higher absorption coefficient in the chest wall as compared to lungs increases sensitivity to deeper structures. In vivo measurements on the thorax of healthy volunteers during a protocol of forced breathing, complemented with information on lung composition and in vivo spectra of swine lung, suggest that such condition is met above 1100 nm.
Multiple experimental setups were exploited to cover the 600-1300 nm spectral range and test different source-detector distances (3-7 cm). All measurements exhibit oscillations consistent with the breathing rhythm, suggesting detection of lung expansion and compression. However, diverse responses from subjects and also a complex dependence of the detected signal on the photon time-of-flight seem to allure to a non-trivial role of photon propagation through lungs, related – for instance – to the presence of alveoli.
The unceasing development of time-resolved single-photon detectors with increasing performances above 1000 nm – e.g. InGaAs Solid State Photomultipliers or large-area Ge diodes – with a better understanding of lung optics – e.g. anomalous diffusion models – might unravel the information from late, deep-travelling photons and lead to a novel photonic tool to probe the lungs non-invasively.
Understanding Faculty Perspectives on Health Equity Curriculum Implementation in Graduate Medical Education: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Foster Krys , Shah Dhruvi , Plunkett Quinn , Sifri Randa
Published: September 2024

Background
Despite increased awareness of persistent healthcare disparities, integrating health equity education into medical residency curricula needs urgent expansion. The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) mandates addressing healthcare disparities and social determinants of health, but implementation remains insufficient due to pervasive barriers.
Objective
To explore residency faculty perspectives at one institution surrounding implementing a health equity curriculum within their programs.
Methods
Between November 2022 and April 2023, qualitative interviews and focus groups were conducted with residency faculty participants (n = 13) from a large academic medical institution. Participants were recruited via an internal email list directory of program directors. Semi-structured sessions explored faculty perspectives on health equity curriculum implementation. Data analysis utilized template analysis and thematic coding.
Results
Faculty perceived barriers included limited time for teaching health equity, challenges in prioritizing health equity content within the curriculum, lack of formal training and expertise, discomfort in leading discussions, and institutional barriers such as resource allocation and lack of buy-in.
Conclusions
Findings underscored the need for institutionally supported faculty development and protected learning time for health equity education. Despite participant recruitment and representation limitations, the study provides valuable insights for addressing curricular challenges. This study highlights critical areas for improving health equity curriculum implementation in graduate medical education. Addressing these faculty barriers can enhance resident competency in identifying and addressing healthcare disparities.
Trial Registration:
The study received ethics approval from the Thomas Jefferson Institutional Review Board (IRB #22E.762).
Study on the Spatiotemporal Changes and Driving Factors of Habitat Quality in the Yarlung Zangbo River from 2000 to 2020
Authors: Yu CHEN , Yujie KANG , Jingji LI , Yanguo LIU , Qin LIU , Zhengyu LUO , Xiaohui ZHOU , Tingbin ZHANG , Guoyan WANG , Xiaolu TANG , Xiangjun PEI
Published: September 2024

The Yarlung Zangbo River (YLZB), the world's highest-altitude and longest plateau river, its highly vulnerable to global climate change due to its delicate ecological environment. Understanding the changes in habitat quality and their driving factors in the YLZB is crucial for ecological conservation and sustainable development in the region. In this study, we analyze land use data from 2000 to 2020, using land use transfer matrix, habitat quality model, optimal parameter geographic detectors, correlation analysis, and partial least squares structural equation model(PLS-SEM) to explore the spatiotemporal changes in habitat quality in the YLZB from 2000 to 2020. It also quantitatively analyzes the mechanisms driving the differentiation in habitat quality. We also examined the relationships between various driving factors affecting habitat quality differentiation within the basin. The results show that: 1) Forests, grasslands, and unused land cover 94.14% of the basin area. Significant land use changes occurred between 2005 and 2010, with an increase in unused land, forest land, and water bodies, while grasslands, permanent glaciers, and snowfields decreased continuously. 2) The average habitat quality in the YLZB declined from 0.59 to 0.54 between 2000 and 2020, indicating an overall downward trend. Habitat quality patches became more fragmented and diverse, with the most significant decline observed from 2005 to 2010. 3) Habitat quality is higher in the southeast and lower in the west of the study area. From 2000 to 2020, the degraded regions covered a significantly larger area compared to the improved regions. Improved regions, accounting for 17.78% of the area, were mainly concentrated in small basins such as Duoxiong Zangbu and Palong Zangbu. Degraded regions made up 20.48% of the area, and were primarily located in the middle and upper reaches of the YLZB, including counties like Zhongba and cities like Shigatse. 4) NDVI(Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), elevation, and annual average temperature are key factors affecting changes in habitat quality along the YLZB. Elevation indirectly impacts NDVI through its influence on climate conditions, which in turn leads to a decrease in habitat quality. Our study highlights the importance of considering land use changes, such as the conversion of grasslands and the loss of glaciers, in developing effective ecological protection strategies for the YLZB. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the ecological dynamics within the basin and provide valuable insights for sustainable management and conservation efforts.
Evaluating Proxy Tuning for Gaze Tracking in Computer Vision: A Comparative Analysis with Fine-Tuning Methods
Authors: Chen Guangkai
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the effectiveness of proxy tuning in the context of gaze tracking within computer vision, comparing it to traditional fine-tuning methods. Using the Columbia Gaze Data Set, I developed two models: a fine-tuned ResNet-50 and a proxy-tuned ResNet-18. The fine-tuning process updated all layers of the ResNet-50, whereas the proxy tuning employed a smaller expert model and its anti-expert counterpart to adjust the base model’s logits without altering its internal weights. The fine-tuned model showed a consistent decrease in training and validation losses, achieving final losses of 0.6044 and 0.5943, respectively. The proxy-tuned model, despite some validation loss fluctuations, excelled in horizontal gaze estimation with a Mean Squared Error (MSE) of 0.0326 compared to 0.1984 for the fine-tuned model. These results suggest that while fine-tuning is robust for general performance, proxy tuning offers significant advantages for specific tasks. This study highlights proxy tuning as a viable and efficient alternative for adapting large pretrained models to specific tasks in computer vision. Project page: https://github.com/GChenCeph/eye tracking.
Exploring the impact of Durvalumab on biliary tract cancer- insights from real world clinical data
Authors: Doleschal Bernhard , Mavroeidi Ilektra-Antonia , Reimann Patrick , Prager Gerald , Schreil Georg , Taghizadeh Hossein , Webersinke Gerald , Burghofer Jonathan , Reichinger Andreas , Kirchweger Patrick , Winder Thomas , Rumpold Holger , Djanani Angela , Morariu-Marina Darius-Catalin , Kasper Stefan , Schuler Martin , Baba Hideo A. , Benda Magdalena , Schneider Eva-Maria , Mink Sylvia
Published: September 2024

Introduction
This study assesses the effectiveness of durvalumab with platinum and gemcitabine for biliary tract cancers (BTC). It aims to confirm the Topaz-1 trial results in a real-world context and explore the link between BTC molecular profiles and patient outcomes.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 102 BTC patients treated with durvalumab, platinum, and gemcitabine at five cancer centers in Austria and one in Germany from 2022 to 2024. Molecular profiling used targeted DNA and RNA assays. Clinical endpoints, including progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), were assessed using log-rank tests and Cox regression, with correlations to second-line molecular-targeted therapies.
Results
Among 102 patients, 60.8% had intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. The treatment achieved a disease control rate of 71.57% and an overall response rate of 35.11%. Median PFS was 6.51 months, and OS was 13.61 months. Patients under 65 had significantly better OS. Alterations in Chromatin Remodeling or Homologous Recombination Repair genes were not predictive of survival benefit (HR 0.45; p=0.851 and HR 1.63; p=0.26, respectively). Patients with molecular-informed second-line therapy showed a trend towards survival benefit (HR 0.23, p=0.052).
Conclusion
This study confirms the phase 3 trial results of durvalumab with platinum and gemcitabine, providing a substantial real-world dataset with detailed molecular characterization. No specific patient subgroup showed a markedly better response to durvalumab based on conventional NGS panels. Further research is needed to explore the link between immunotherapy responses and molecular subgroups
Default mode network-basal ganglia network connectivity predicts the transition to postherpetic neuralgia
Authors: Wu Ying , Wang Chao , Qian Wei , Wang Lieju , Yu Lina , Zhang Minming , Yan Min
Published: September 2024

Background
Neuroimaging study has revealed aberrant network functional connectivities in postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) patients. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the relationship between brain network connectivity in acute period and disease prognosis. The purpose was to detect a characteristic network connectivity in the process of herpes zoster (HZ) pain chronification and identify whether the abnormal network connectivity in acute period can predict outcome of HZ patient.
Methods
In this cross-sectional study, 31 PHN patients, 33 recuperation from herpes zoster (RHZ) patients, and 28 acute herpes zoster (AHZ) patients were recruited and underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). We investigated the differences in four resting-state network (RSN) connectivities among the aboved three groups. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was performed to identify whether the abnormal network connectivity in acute period can predict the outcome of HZ patient.
Results
Firstly, we found within-basal ganglia network (BGN) and default mode network (DMN)-BGN connectivity differences, with PHN patients showing increased DMN-BGN connectivity compared with AHZ and RHZ patients, and RHZ patients showing increased within-BGN connectivity compared with AHZ and PHN patients. Moreover, DMN-BGN connectivity was associated with the ID pain score in AHZ patients. Finally, the DMN-BGN connectivity of AHZ patients can predict the outcome of HZ patients with sensitivity and specificity of 77.8% and 63.2%, respectively.
Conclusions
Our results provide evidence that DMN-BGN connectivity in acute period confers risk for the development of chronic pain and can act as a neuroimaging biomarker to predict the outcome of HZ patients.
Unveiling the authentic secrets of traditional herbal medicines: A comprehensive investigation into metagenomic, metabolomic, and quality assessment of two categories of Codonopsis Pilosula from Shanxi Province
Authors: Wu Yuhui , Meng Xianglong , Han Xiang , Bu Zhulin , Li Yuting , Zhan Haixian , Zhang Shuosheng
Published: September 2024

Background The main source of Codonopsis pilosula (CP) is the Campanulaceae family Codonopsis pilosula (Franch.) Nannf., which is one of the traditional herbal medicines in Shanxi Province, China. In Shanxi Province, CP can be divided into two major categories, Lu CP (Lu dangshen in Chinese, LCP) and Tai CP (Tai dangshen in Chinese, TCP), because of their geographical conditions and traits. Since LCP is cultivated on a large scale, it has emerged as one of the commonly prescribed medicines in TCM clinics. TCP predominantly exists as a wild species. The artificial cultivation technology for TCP has not yet been fully developed, and the availability of wild resources for TCP is limited. There have been few comparative studies on the authentic evaluation of the two types of CPs.
Results The findings revealed that the two types of CPs met the quality standards. With respect to the growing environment, TCP and LCP grow in the same longitudinal extent, with a maximum longitudinal span of only 53'. Both regions presented similar natural environments conducive to the growth of CP. Additionally, the lobetyolin content in TCP was greater than that in LCP. The soil microbial abundance in the TCP group was considerably significantly greater than that in the LCP group, and a new genus, Ascobolus, was found in TCP. Additionally, compared with TCP, LCP materials presented elevated levels of metals. These results not only indicate the main ecological and environmental parameters of Shanxi Province as a suitable production area for CP but also offer differential information for comparisons between the two types of CP specifications in Shanxi Province.
Conclusions TCP and LCP share similar geographical environments for growth. However, TCP features a dense ring pattern beneath the stalk, a high content of lobetyolin, and a new flora, Ascobolus, in the root soil.
Brain structural reorganization mediates the relationship between hearing loss and cognitive impairment
Authors: Wang Yao , Luo Jianfen , Li Wenqing , Han Yu , Ma Wen , Liu Siqi , Xu Lei , Fan Zhaomin , Ai Yu , Su Meixia , Ren Fuxin , Li Fuyan , Wang Haibo , Gao Fei
Published: September 2024

Presbycusis is a common disease in the elderly linked to cognitive decline. Studies have shown structural alterationsin brain regions associated with hearing and cognitive function in presbycusis patients. However, the neural mechanisms linking brain structure with hearing loss and cognitive impairment remain unclear. This study investigated neuroanatomical alterations associated with auditory and cognitive functions. A total of 67 presbycusis patients and 68 normal-hearing controls underwent magnetic resonance imaging, auditory assessment, and cognitive assessment. Presbycusis patients were divided into presbycusis cognitive preservation (presbycusis-CP) and presbycusis cognitive impairment (presbycusis-CI) subgroups according to Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores. Atrophy of gray matter volume (GMV) was observed in presbycusis patients. The results indicated that GMV of the hippocampus, superior frontal cortex (SFC), and posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) mediated the connection between hearing loss and cognitive impairment. Interestingly, the hippocampus mediated the relationship between the GMV of the SFC and PCC in presbycusis and with the strongest mediating effect (56.14%) in presbycusis-CI patients. Notably, this was not valid in normal-hearing controls and presbycusis-CP patients. Overall, presbycusis patients, especially presbycusis-CI patients, show a specific reorganization pattern of auditory and cognitive-related brain areas and that the hippocampus may be a specific target for presbycusis-related cognitive impairment.
Comprehensive analysis of gene mutation in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia caused by inherited diseases
Authors: You Jinying , Xiong Lingyun , Wu Minfang , Fan Junsong , Fu Qihua , Qiu Minghua
Published: September 2024

We performed this study to explore the characteristics of genetic mutations associated with NH and analyze the correlation with genetic diseases. One hundred and five patients with NH were obtained between September 2020 and June 2023 from the second Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen Medical College. We analyzed gene mutations in NH caused by inherited diseases by a 25-gene panel. Seventeen frequently mutated genes were found in the 105 patients. UGT1A1 variants were identified among the 71 cases of neonatal Gilbert syndrome. In these patients with sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP) deficiency, the primary mutation identified is SLC10A1. ATP7B mutations primarily occur in patients with hepatolenticular degeneration (Wilson's disease). In addition, we found UGT1A1 and G6PD mutations were higher in the high-risk group than low-risk group, while mutations in SLC10A1, ATP7B, and SLC25A13 were more common in the low-risk group. Conclusions: Gene mutations are significantly associated with NH. This study not only contributes to a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of NH, but also provides new ideas for its prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
Nurse-led Pre-Chemotherapy Education Programme: its effect on the quality of life and psychological distress among patients with breast cancer; a Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Rani Ruchika , Kaur Sukhpal
Published: September 2024

Patients with breast cancer experience various physical symptoms and psychological distress, associated with disease and treatment modalities such as chemotherapy, which adversely affect their quality of life. This demands that nurses take a proactive role in educating and preparing patients and their family members to cope with illness.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of a nurse-led prechemotherapy education (ChemoED) programme on quality of life, and psychological distress among breast cancer patients.
Methods: In a randomized controlled trial, a parallel-group design was used with newly diagnosed patients with breast cancer receiving chemotherapy for the first time at AIIMS, Rishikesh, India. Eighty patients were randomized, with 40 in the experimental group and 40 in the control group. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C-30 (EORTC QLQ C-30) version-3, the EORTC QLQ BR-23 and the Hospital Anxiety and Distress Scale (HADS) were used to assess the quality of life and psychological distress, respectively, of the patients at baseline (before the first cycle of chemotherapy) and at the fourth cycle of chemotherapy.
Results: The mean quality of life scores were significantly greater in the experimental group than in the control group, in terms of global health status (p=0.00), functional scores (p=0.00), and symptom scores (p=0.00). Similarly, the mean HADS score was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group (p=0.05). Fatigue, nausea/vomiting, and anorexia were the patients' most reported symptoms.
Conclusion: Nurse-led prechemotherapy education programs effectively improve quality of life and reduce psychological distress among chemotherapy patients. The study also reflects the need to develop nurse-led care programs in hospitals that can prepare patients well to cope with disease and treatment in a better way.
Trial Registration: Trial REF/2019/05/025755, date of registration: 26th August 2019
Elevated Serum Growth Differentiation Factor 15 and Decorin Predict the Fibrotic Progression of Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatotic Liver Disease
Authors: Chang Jae Seung , Ahn Jhii-Hyun , Kim Moon Young , Park Kyu-Sang
Published: September 2024

Background
Mitochondrial dysfunction with oxidative stress contributes to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) progression. We aimed to evaluate the fibrosis predictive efficacy of a novel non-invasive diagnostic panel using metabolic stress biomarkers.
Methods
From a population-based general cohort, 343 volunteers were recruited in the development group and underwent magnetic resonance imaging-based liver examinations, anthropometric and laboratory tests. As an external validation group, 41 patients enrolled in a biopsy-evaluated MASLD cohort participated in this study. Liver fat content and stiffness were measured by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging-proton density fat fraction and MR elastography (MRE), respectively. Serologic stress biomarkers were quantitated by ELISA.
Results
Multivariate regression showed that waist-to-height ratio, growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF15), γ-glutamyltransferase, decorin, and alkaline-phosphatase were independent predictors of hepatic fibrosis (rank-ordered by Wald). The area under receiver-operator characteristics curve [AUROC (95% CI)) of the metabolic stress index for fibrosis (MSI-F) was 0.912(0.85‒0.98) and 0.977(0.92‒1.00) in development and validation groups, respectively. MSI-F also had better diagnostic accuracy (82.6%‒92.4%) than other fibrosis indices in the both study cohorts. MSI-F consistently differentiated fibrosis severities across cohorts of MRE-evaluated general population and biopsy-proven patients with MASLD, while other indices showed no or less discrimination.
Conclusions
MSI-F, as a novel non-invasive index based on a stress-stimulated protective hormone GDF15 and decorin, effectively predicted hepatic fibrosis. Furthermore, MSI-F may serve as pre-screening tool to increase the population that could be excluded from further evaluation, reducing unnecessary invasive investigations more effectively than other indices.
Factors affecting Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus transmission in rural Ugandan households, a longitudinal study
Authors: Sabourin Katherine R. , Marshall Vickie A. , Eaton Will , Kimono Beatrice , Mugisha Joseph , Miley Wendell J. , Labo Nazzarena , Samayoa-Reyes Gabriela , Whitby Denise , Rochford Rosemary , Newton Robert
Published: September 2024

Background
We report the impact of HIV infection within a household on oral Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) shedding.
Methods
We enrolled 469 individuals from 90 households. Mouthwash rinse samples collected at three monthly visits, were analyzed for KSHV DNA using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Generalized linear mixed effects logistic models were applied to analyze factors associated with KSHV ever shedding, and among shedders, always versus intermittent shedding. Linear mixed effects models were applied to models of KSHV viral loads. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess the contribution of household-level factors to variations in shedding probabilities. Hotspot analyses of geospatial feature clusters were calculated using Getis-Ord Gi* statistic and visualized using inverse distance weighted interpolation.
Results
Analyses included 340 KSHV seropositive individuals, aged 3 + years, with qPCR results from 89 households. Forty households had 1 + persons living with HIV (PLWH), while 49 had none. Among participants, 149(44%) were KSHV ever shedders. Of 140 who shed KSHV at two or more visits, 34(24%) were always shedders. Increasing number of KSHV seropositive household members was significantly associated with ever shedding [Odds ratio(OR) (95% Confidence Interval(95%CI)):1.14(1.03,1.26);p = 0.013]. Among KSHV shedders, a statistically significant age-related trend was identified with 10–19 years being more likely to be always shedders (type III test p = 0.039) and to have higher viral loads (type III test p = 0.027). In addition, higher viral loads were significantly associated with increasing number of household members [coefficient(95%CI):0.06(0.01,0.12);p = 0.042], increasing number of KSHV seropositive members [coefficient(95%CI):0.08(0.01,0.15);p = 0.021], and living in households with 1 + PLWH [coefficient(95%CI):0.51(0.04,0.98);p = 0.033]. Always shedders exhibited higher viral loads than intermittent shedders [coefficient(95%CI):1.62(1.19,2.05);p < 0.001], and viral loads increased with the number of visits where KSHV DNA was detected in saliva (type III test p < 0.001). Household-level factors attributed for 19% of the variability in KSHV shedding (ICC:0.191;p = 0.010). Geospatial analysis indicated overlapping hotspots of households with more KSHV seropositive individuals and KSHV shedders, distinct from areas where PLWH were clustered.
Discussion
KSHV oral shedding is influenced by multiple factors at the individual, household, and regional levels. To mitigate ongoing KSHV transmission a comprehensive understanding of factors contributing to oral KSHV reactivation and transmission within households is needed.
A Novel Parallel Approach to Image Processing for High-Performance Computing
Authors: Al-Neam Mohammed W. , Abdulrahman Eman H. , Ali Salwa M.
Published: September 2024

As the utilization of big data and the computational requirements have increased the demand for superior image processing procedures has been of supreme importance. When it comes to the large amount of calculations that today’s high-resolution images and computationally heavy algorithms demand, serial computations do not suffice. This paper describes a new parallel algorithm for image processing suitable for application to high-performance computing. Taking advantage of the parallel computing environment and efficient algorithms which are used in the proposed approach, the response time is considerably improved. Data supporting this indeed can be best illustrated by the experiments conducted in this paper and they include filtering, edge detection and segmentation of images. The presented parallel strategy also minimized computational period and scaled effectively with enlargement and compounding of image collections. Such findings suggest significant enhancements in the performance outcomes in contrast to the results obtained from conventional methods suggesting the potential of parallel processing for bringing about revolutionary changes in image processing paradigms in high-performance computing environments.
Effect of physical activity on glycaemia and blood pressure in healthy participants from Bissau
Authors: Sanca Lilica Hulilé , Có Cipriano , Namara Nelson , Lopes Aladje , Emanuel Albino , Oliveiros Bárbara , Byberg Stine , Bjerregaard-Andersen Morten , Carvalho Eugénia , Massart Alain , Teixeira Ana
Published: September 2024

Background: Recent data show a dramatic increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in developing countries, including cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes. Most of these NCDs may be preventable and to some extent treatable by alterations in physical activity. We investigate levels of physical activity according to energy expenditure, in different physical activity level participants from Bissau, Guinea-Bissau. Energy expenditure was measured in metabolic equivalent minutes per week (METs min/week) and these were related to fasting glycaemia levels, blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and fat mass percentage (FM), anthropometric variables and risk factors were also associated.
Result: 429 voluntary participants were included in sprots and health facilities around the country. Of these, 187 were highly active (>3000 MET × minutes per week or at least 1500 METs min/week) and had a mean age of 26.8 ± 7.5 years. 76% (327/429) were male. The mean energy expenditure was 4866.7 ± 1241.2METs.minutes/week and the mean fasting glucose was 94.0 ± 14.1mg/dl. 3.5% (n/N) of the participants had diabetes and 11.6% (n/N) were hypertensive. Obesity was present in 1.1% (n/N) of the participants. A significant negative correlation was found between blood glucose and total physical activity (r = - 0.117, p = 0.015), and in Sport IPAQ domain (r = - .175, p <0.001). In the highly active participants, no significant correlation was found between blood pressure and physical activity, however, in the sedentary group, a significant positive correlation was found, indicating a low moderate association, between systolic blood pressure and weekly sitting time, r(175) = .205, p = .006.
Conclusion: High levels of physical activity had a significant impact on glycaemia control. Physical activity had no impact on blood pressure. Approximately 170 minutes of Physical activity per week is highly recommended as a treatment strategy to reduce high glycaemia levels.