bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Frequency Pressure Monitoring Algorithm Improves Effectiveness of Multistage Fracturing with Chemical Diverter in Pre-Opened Ports
Authors: Borisenko Alexey , Fedorov Andrey , Akhunov Ainur , Akimov Roman , Tetyuk Dmitry
Published: November 2024

An oil company faced the challenging task to perform multistage fracturing while all burst frac ports were preliminary opened. The objective of this work is to apply a non-intrusive methodology to confirm effectiveness of multistage fracturing operations with use of a chemical diverter on pre-opened unstimulated intervals.

A data-driven methodology is used for high frequency pressure monitoring and interpretation during the hammer signal distribution after pumps stop. An algorithm identifies the depth of fluid entry point and estimates the probability of the target zone stimulation. Before the main frac job, the hammer of injection test is analyzed, and the depth of fluid entry point is estimated. Depending on the probabilities of the fluid being injected into the target zone the decision is made whether to run another diverting pill or not.

Completion systems with several fracturing ports (burst or ball-activated) is a commonly used technique of horizontal wells stimulation in Western Siberia region. Frac ports in this case are stayed closed until a ball of specific diameter or excess of pressure open it to achieve an isolation of previously fractured intervals. Several hydraulic fracture stages were monitored following this methodology. For the first time, pre-opened fracturing ports were confirmed to be separately stimulated with application of chemical diverter and support of data-driven pressure monitoring algorithm. Diversion from all the previously stimulated intervals was confirmed. Planned formation fluid production target for such types of well completion was achieved.

This technique can create an additional value for oil and gas companies those objectives are related to multistage fracturing in pre-opened ports and refracturing after first multistage frac (burst or ball-activated, "plug and perf") to achieve effectiveness of chemical diverter application without a need of additional equipment and materials for mechanical isolation of stimulated intervals.
An Alternative Approach of Polymer Flooding Implementation for the Fields of Kazakhstan
Authors: Sahuc B. , Engles E. , Abirov Z.
Published: November 2024

Polymer flooding, an enhanced oil recovery (EOR) method, has been widely implemented in various oil fields worldwide to increase oil recovery rates by improving the viscosity of injected water and, consequently, the sweep efficiency in the reservoir. Its implementation strategies can vary significantly depending on the specific characteristics of an oil field. This paper compares two different polymer flooding strategies for the field of Kalamkas: (1) the distributed pilot strategy, which involves injecting polymers at several different locations across multiple horizons, and (2) the single-horizon pilot strategy, which focuses on a reduced number of pilot injections within a single reservoir horizon. By analyzing the advantages, disadvantages, and effectiveness of each approach, this paper aims to identify which strategy offers better efficiency and oil recovery rates in the challenging conditions of Kalamkas oil field, which could be implemented on other fields.
Enhancing Giant Oil Field Performance Through Advanced ESP Systems and Accurate Reservoir Monitoring
Authors: Hassan K. , Barakat M. , Elhajjaji R. R. , Awedan H. , Sherik A. , Elhamali B. , Budeeb M. , Khzam A. , Bosnina S.
Published: November 2024

Over the years, hundreds of oil wells in the largest oil field in Libya have been depleted, leaving considerable oil volumes behind due to strong aquifer support and improper water encroachment management. A comprehensive intervention program was developed to evaluate and produce this trapped oil. Conventional electric submersible pump (ESP) designs did not consider changes in hydrocarbon saturation. Therefore, tailored Y-tool systems were used to achieve inflow profile passes and avoid undesired nonproductive rig time.

The intervention workflow involved a thorough review of the workover histories of nearly 100 wells, revealing prevalent well integrity issues and solids production. Many wells experienced a gradual decline in oil production rates, leading to frequent ESP failures. To tackle these challenges, a comprehensive workover program was devised. This program involved retrieving failed pumps, assessing wellbore integrity, installing ESP bypass systems, and conducting casedhole logging for saturation monitoring and flow profiling. Multirate and pressure transient tests were performed to accurately assess reservoir performance, informing subsequent remedial actions. This integrated approach enabled dynamic reservoir evaluation, facilitating the identification of bypassed and remaining hydrocarbons, damaged areas, watered-out zones, and well integrity issues.

The comprehensive evaluation provided insights crucial for the accurate design of ESP systems tailored to each well's potential. This level of precision, previously unattainable due to the absence of measurements of the dynamic reservoir conditions, underscores the significance of the integrated methodology in optimizing well performance and mitigating ESP failures. Through the implementation of this approach, over 100 previously shut-in and underperforming wells were effectively restored. These efforts resulted in a remarkable surge in oil production, with a gain of nearly 63,000 barrels of oil per day (BOPD), coupled with a substantial reduction in water production exceeding 90,000 barrels of water per day. These outcomes validated the effectiveness of the project and led the operator to embark on a subsequent phase. This next step seeks to capitalize on the success of the initial endeavor and embrace further opportunities for progress and advancement.
Green Extracts of Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. (Lotus): Promising Alternatives for Spodoptera litura (Fab.) Management through Chemical Profiling and Insecticidal Evaluation
Authors: Sriniv P. , Krishnamurthy Natesan , Revathi Kannan , Obaid Sami Al , Aljawdah Hossam M. , Chandrasekaran Prasath Ramasamy
Published: November 2024

This study delves into the potential insecticidal properties of Nelumbo nucifera (Lotus) against the cutworm Spodoptera litura L., a significant agricultural pest. Analysis of the chemical profile of N. nucifera revealed that the peak area was highest for 6a-. beta. -Aporphine, 1,2-dimethoxy- (33.79%), followed by n-Hexadecanoic acid (21.14%). Notably, larval mortality was most pronounced at the peak dosage of N. nucifera (2.5 mg/L) on the second (96%), third (87%), and fourth (85%) instars. Additionally, sub-lethal dosages of N. nucifera (1.5 milligrams per liter) significantly hindered the growth of S. litura by extending the larval and pupal durations while also reducing fecundity and Oviposition rates in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, exposure to sub-lethal dosages of N. nucifera led to both inhibition and upregulation of major enzymes (esterases, CYP450 and GST). Severe damage as well as dysregulation of midgut tissues were observed in fourth instars of S. litura exposed to N. nucifera (2.5 milligrams per liter). Moreover, our results indicate that N. nucifera extracts pose no harm to soil earthworms and beneficial honey bees, as confirmed through in vitro assays and in silico predictions, respectively. Overall, these findings offer promising prospects for the development of new bio-based agents for targeting and managing the lepidopteran pest S. litura.
Research on Rock Strength Prediction Model Based on Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Ding Xiang , Dong Mengyun , Shen Wanqing
Published: November 2024

The compressive strength of rocks is one of its mechanical characteristics. It has been a difficult problem to predict rock compressive strength conveniently and efficiently, and to solve the limitations of traditional rock compressive strength tests such as high cost, long time consumption, and reliability assurance. In this study, a data set containing 1774 groups of rock compressive strength test data was constructed through file retrieval, including 9 input parameters: rock type, temperature, confining pressure, dimension of specimen, shape of specimen, and experimental method. Eight supervised learning algorithms were used to learn the rock compressive strength test data, and eight rock compressive strength prediction models considering multiple factors were established to obtain a better method of predicting rock compressive strength. By selecting different features, the optimal feature combination for predicting rock compressive strength was obtained, and the optimal parameters for different models were obtained through the Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA). Finally, four regression evaluation indicators, including mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), and coefficient of determination (R²), were used to evaluate the predictive performance of the established regression models. The results showed that the best-trained model had a MAPE as low as 3.61%, MAE as low as 9.19 MPa, and R² as high as 0.995. It is noteworthy that AdaBoost was found to be the best model for predicting rock compressive strength. This study presents a significant advancement in the field by demonstrating the effectiveness of machine learning algorithms in this context, which have not been extensively applied to rock compressive strength predictions. The findings suggest that these models can offer substantial improvements over traditional methods, not only in accuracy but also in operational efficiency. This research is important for geotechnical engineering, as accurate rock strength predictions are critical for the design and stability assessments of construction projects, ultimately contributing to safer and more cost-effective engineering solutions.
IDO1 Inhibitor Enhances the Effectiveness of PD-1 Blockade in Microsatellite Stable Colorectal Cancer by Promoting Macrophage Pro-Inflammatory Phenotype Polarization
Authors: Guangzhao Lv , Xin Wang , Miaoqing Wu , Wenjuan Ma , Ranyi Liu , Zhizhong Pan , Rongxin Zhang , Gong Chen
Published: November 2024

Microsatellite stable (MSS) colorectal cancer (CRC) is a subtype of CRC that generally exhibits resistance to immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors such as PD-1 blockade. This study investigates the effects and underlying mechanisms of combining PD-1 blockade with IDO1 inhibition in MSS CRC. Bioinformatics analyses of TCGA-COAD and TCGA-READ cohorts revealed significantly elevated IDO1 expression in CRC tumors, correlating with tumor mutation burden across TCGA datasets. In vivo experiments demonstrated that the combination of IDO1 inhibition and PD-1 blockade significantly reduced tumor growth and increased immune cell infiltration, particularly pro-inflammatory macrophages and CD8 + T cells. IDO1 knockdown in CRC cell lines impaired tolerance to interferon-γ and increased apoptosis in vitro, while IDO1 knockdown in MSS CRC enhanced the effectiveness of PD-1 blockade therapy in vivo. IDO1-knockdown CRC cells promoted pro-inflammatory macrophage polarization and enhanced phagocytic activity via the JAK2-STAT3-IL6 signaling pathway. These findings highlight the role of IDO1 in modulating the tumor immune microenvironment in MSS CRC and suggest that combining PD-1 blockade with IDO1 inhibition could enhance therapeutic efficacy by promoting macrophage pro-inflammatory polarization and infiltration through the JAK2-STAT3-IL6 pathway.
Evaluation of fatigue performance of asphalt materials based on their relaxation behavior
Authors: Zhang Beibei , Jing Mengqi
Published: November 2024

Although the fatigue properties of asphalt materials have been extensively studied, the relationship between the rheological properties and road performance of asphalt mixtures remains underexplored. In this study, we have examined the relaxation properties of asphalt binders through relaxation tests conducted on asphalt and its mastic under different conditions. A repeated stress relaxation-recovery test is designed for assessing both the relaxation and elastic properties, and a set of reasonable test parameters is recommended, thereby establishing a novel test method for measuring the relaxation and elastic behaviors of asphalt. In addition, we have proposed evaluation indexes, such as relaxation time, relaxation rate, and strain recovery rate, to assess the stress relaxation performance and strain recovery ability. It is observed that the relaxation rate and strain recovery rate of the material can be used to characterize the material’s relaxation and elasticity properties, respectively. Thus, the proposed indexes can be used to comprehensively evaluate the viscoelastic performance of the material. The fatigue performance of the selected materials is further examined using the linear amplitude sweep (LAS) test, and the correlation between the relaxation properties and fatigue performance (as indicated by fatigue parameters) is explored. Furthermore, a fatigue performance prediction equation based on the repetitive stress relaxation-recovery test is established. The findings reveal a strong correlation between the relaxation properties and fatigue performance, suggesting that the stress relaxation test can accurately assess the fatigue performance of asphalt materials.
Cognitive performance classification of older patients using machine learning and electronic medical records
Authors: Richter-Laskowska Monika , Sobotnicka Ewelina , Bednorz Adam
Published: November 2024

Dementia is anticipated to rise significantly by 2050, posing a huge challenge to the care and health services. Consequently, it is crucial to develop tools that can speed up the process to obtain the right diagnosis. One promising approach is the use of machine learning (ML) algorithms, which show great potential in improving diagnostic accuracy and identifying risk factors for cognitive decline. This study (n = 283) aims to assess various ML techniques in correctly identifying the level of cognitive performance of older patients using data derived from electronic medical records (EMRs). The most influential factors distinguishing healthy controls from those with MCI are history of myocardial infarction, vitamin D3 levels, IADL, age, and sodium levels, while for distinguishing controls from dementia patients, the key factors are IADL, ADL, years of education,vitamin D3 levels, and age. The obtained results indicate that the nonlinear Support vector machine (SVM) is the most effective in discriminating between control subjects and patients with MCI (ACC= 70%; AUC=0.79) and dementia (ACC=87%;AUC=0.94), outperforming other ML models such as Random Forest, K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) and neural networks. It is expected that these results may significantly improve the diagnosis process.
Fecal Microbiome Alterations of Mice Following Immunization with Gold Nanoparticle Vaccines Against Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli
Authors: Bowser Sarah , Chapartegui-González Itziar , Torres Alfredo G.
Published: November 2024

Background. Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC), a group of enteric pathogenic bacteria that is a major cause of human diarrheal disease, must interact with the diverse intestinal microbiome during colonization and subsequently overcome the environmental challenges to survive and cause disease. While this relationship, and how the microbiome modulates infection of EHEC, has been studied, it is less understood how the microbiome is impacted during treatment for an EHEC infection. One area that is notably lacking in knowledge is how vaccination can impact the intestinal microbiome composition, and therefore, influence vaccine efficacy. We previously developed vaccine formulations consisting of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) conjugated to various EHEC antigens and tested them in small animal infection models using both EHEC and its murine counterpart Citrobacter rodentium. The goal of this study was to evaluate the relationship between these EHEC vaccines and their effects on the gut microbiome.
Results. We found that immunization with the vaccines or adjuvant-only control did not lead to major alterations in the composition of the fecal microbiome; however, there were measurable variations in individual mice within the same vaccine group housed in separate cages. Finally, immunization with one vaccine (AuNP-EscC) did prevent a decrease in the diversity of the fecal microbiome and an increase in detectable C. rodentium following infection compared to the control animals.
Conclusions. Overall, our small study argues in favor of evaluating the intestinal microbiome during vaccine development not just for EHEC, but for other enteric pathogens as well.
Mindin orchestrates the macrophage-mediated resolution of liver fibrosis in mice
Authors: Huang Yong dong , Zhao Xian ling , yang Xiao mei Ou , Lin Ying , Cheng Xiao shen , liang Lai ying , Huo Ya ni , Xie Gui jing , Lin Jun hui , Jazag Amarsanaa , Guleng Bayasi
Published: November 2024

Background & Aims:
Liver disease that progresses to cirrhosis is an enormous health problem worldwide. The extracellular matrix protein Mindin is known to have immune functions, but its role in liver homeostasis remains largely unexplored. We aimed to characterize the role of Mindin in the regulation of liver fibrosis.
Approach & Results:
Mindin was upregulated in mice with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) or thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis, and was primarily expressed in hepatocytes. Global Mindin knockout mice were generated, which were susceptible to liver fibrosis. Notably, Mindin failed to activate hepatic stellate cells directly; however, it played a role in promoting the recruitment and phagocytosis of macrophages, and caused a phenotypic switch toward restorative macrophages during liver fibrosis. Furthermore, Mindin was found to bind to the αM-I domain of CD11b/CD18 heterodimeric receptors. To further explore this mechanism, we created Mindin and CD11b double-knockout (DKO) mice. In DKO mice, phagocytosis was further reduced, and liver fibrosis was markedly exacerbated.
Conclusions
Mindin promotes the resolution of liver fibrosis and the Mindin/CD11b axis might represent a novel target for the macrophage-mediated regression of liver fibrosis.
Graphical abstract:
New autoimmune disorders after Immune Reconstitution Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Giedraitiene Natasa , Kizlaitiene Rasa , Kaubrys Gintaras
Published: November 2024

Immune reconstitution therapy (IRT) is relatively new and highly effective treatment option in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Uncertainty regarding the autoimmune disorders (AD) after some of the therapies remains. The aim of the study was to assess new AD after IRT in MS patients and to describe the nature of AD and time to it onset. 179 patients with Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis, 37 with autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT), 19 with alemtuzumab (ALE) and 123 with cladribine (CLA), over the ten years period were included in the study. AD were observed in 6 patients (16.2%) after AHSCT, in 8 patients (42.1%) after ALE and in 2 patients (1.6%) after CLA treatment. AD develops earliest after CLA tablets, while it develops later after AHSCT. Neurologists should be attentive to the development of secondary AD after IRT in MS patients. The lowest incidence of AD is after CLA and the latest manifestation of AD is after AHSCT except the cytopenias.
Social isolation and loneliness moderate the association between uncorrected hearing impairment and cognitive aging across 18 years
Authors: Lampraki Charikleia , Zuber Sascha , Turoman Nora , Joly-Burra Emilie , Mack Melanie , Laera Gianvito , Scarampi Chiara , Rostekova Adriana , Kliegel Matthias , Ihle Andreas
Published: November 2024

Hearing impairment affects a growing number of older adults and is associated with worse cognitive aging outcomes. However, the mechanisms linking hearing impairment and cognition are complex, and the role of potential moderating factors remains underexplored. This study examined whether social isolation and loneliness profiles (e.g., non-isolated but lonely) help explain why some older individuals experience faster cognitive decline as their hearing worsens, while others do not. Using longitudinal data from waves 1 to 9 of the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), we analysed 33,741 individuals (Mage = 61.4, SD = 8.6). Multilevel modelling revealed that both levels and linear and quadratic changes in hearing impairment predicted lower cognitive performance and steeper cognitive decline. Additionally, compared to those who were non-isolated and less lonely, those in the non-isolated but lonelier profile exhibited steeper declines in episodic memory, but not executive functions, with worsening hearing. These findings highlight key psychosocial factors contributing to cognitive decline in the context of hearing impairment, underscoring the importance of targeted social and health interventions to support cognitive health in older adults.
Resilience factors associated with mental health of adolescent learners living with mild and moderate intellectual difficulties
Authors: Warnick Johan Erlank , Munongi Lucia
Published: November 2024

Background
Globally, around 14% of adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 are reported to face mental health issues. However, mild to moderate intellectual disabilities (MMID) are very prevalent among young people affecting between 1–2% of this population. Most research has focused on risk factors associated with MMID in the Global North. There is a dearth of literature on resilience factors among adolescents diagnosed with MMID from the Global South, including South Africa. This study aims to address this gap.
Methods
A descriptive quantitative study investigating the resilience factors among adolescent learners diagnosed with MMID was conducted with 414 learners. The Child and Youth Resilience Measure (CYRM-28) was used to assess the prevailing resilience factors. Participants were conveniently selected from three schools that enrolled learners who had been diagnosed with MMID. The CYRM-28 questionnaire was administered with the support of qualified and trained school psychologists and teachers between August and September 2022.
Results
Caregivers Physical Care (4.27) and Context Education (4.21) factors had the highest mean scores, with the mean scores of Context Cultural (3.97), Individual Social Skills (3.96) and Contextual Spiritual (3.87) in the middle, and Individual Peer Support (3.43), Individual Personal Skills (3,45) and Caregivers Psychological Care (3.69) with lower mean scores than the other factors.
Conclusion
The results show that in most of the CYRM-28 factors, the mean scores indicated that the items were ‘somewhat’ descriptive of the participants indicating no statistically significant differences in all analyses done. These results suggest the need for more attention in those areas to enable them to facilitate resilience for adolescents with MMID.
Characterization and interactions between piperine and ezetimibe in their Anti-hyperlipidemic efficacy using Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Marati Kavitha , Palatheeya Sujatha , Chettupalli Ananda Kumar , Bukke Sarad Pawar Naik
Published: November 2024

Background
The antihyperlipidemic action of Ezetimibe (EZ) is influenced by its secondary metabolite, piperine. Independent risk factors for cardiovascular illnesses, including atherosclerosis, include hyperlipidaemia. Preventing cardiovascular events and death in patients requires the use of antihyperlipidemic medications. We set out to find a way to make the BCS II lipid-lowering medication EZ more water-soluble. EZ is now very poorly soluble. Increasing the bioavailability of other medications is possible using piperine, a bioenhancer, without changing their base properties or improving their effectiveness.
Method
At dosages of 10 and 5–20 mg/kg b.w., the antihyperlipidemic efficacy of EZ with piperine was evaluated in vivo. Hyperlipidaemia in rats was tested using rats induced with propylthiouracil and rats administered Triton X-100. Propylthiouracil with piperine, 400 mg/kg body weight, should be administered together. Notably, there were notable increases in the blood concentrations of all three types of cholesterol (lipid levels, LDL, total cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein ) (p < 0.01). It resulted in HDL production (p < 0.01). One intraperitoneal Triton X-100 dosage increased lipids.
Results
Lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) were significantly reduced by EZ at 100 mg/kg b.w. and piperine at 200 mg/kg b.w., respectively (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05). Liver histology studies provided further evidence supporting the present findings. Areas of concentrated periportal lymphocytes and hepatocytes formed a cord pattern in rats with hyperlipidaemia. It seemed like the hepatocytes, periportal area, and centrilobular part of the liver were all normal in the group who had the treatment. An analysis of the EZ plasma drug concentration with time was carried out in a research. The medication's most effective concentration (Cmax) was determined to be within 4 hours after delivery, and The quantified concentration of the active medication was detectable in the bloodstream for 24 hours.
Conclusion
The antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic properties of EZ when combined with piperine are particularly noteworthy. This suggests that EZ may have further applications in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia and atherosclerosis as a result of its capacity to increase the drug's oral absorption and availability.
Optimizing E-voting model based on blockchain technology to enhance privacy and transparency
Authors: Galal Mohamed , Reheem Eman Abd El , Guirguis Shawkat
Published: November 2024

Elections are the most effective democratic mechanism for encouraging people to choose their representatives, which significantly impacts a nation's future and the lives of its residents. The election can be organized as traditional paper-based or electronic voting (e-voting). Traditional elections have challenges with privacy, security, transparency, and efficiency. Furthermore, it takes too long to count the votes, and in e-voting, the validity and integrity of the votes cast cannot be trusted by a sizable number of people. Therefore, security and privacy concerns persist. This paper presents e-voting based on blockchain, which provides a decentralized ledger that is distributed, secure, and immutable. Additionally, the proposed system adds layers of encryption to the votes by using AES as a symmetric key and RSA as an asymmetric key to prevent administrators or users who have access to system data from hacking voter privacy or influencing the transparency of the election. The result of the model is the protection of voter privacy and increased transparency in the election process. In several experiments, the transaction timing performance is evaluated and compared with other research results, confirming that the model performs better.
The risk factors of bleeding after endoscopic ultrasonography -guided transmural drainage of peripancreatic fluid collections: A single-center experience in China
Authors: Li Yaoting , Li Yue , Yu Tingting , Hou Senlin , zhang Wei , Du Haiming , Hou Yankun , Tian Jiao , Zhang Lichao
Published: November 2024

Background
Endoscopic ultrasonography(EUS) guided transmural drainage has become a first-line treatment for peripancreatic fluid collections(PFCs). Postoperative bleeding may lead to severe clinical outcomes. The purpose of this study was to explore thepatient-related and surgery-related factors associtated with postoperative bleeding.
Methods
This is an observational cohort study. A total of 181 patients who underwent EUS drainage at our center between June 2019 and May 2023 were enrolled analyzed in the study. Postoperative bleeding complications were observed, and patient and operation-related data were collected. Univariate and multifactorial logistics regression were performed for the risk factors that may affect postoperative bleeding. Determine the risk factors affecting postoperative bleeding.
Results
We achieved a 100% technical success rate. A total of 14 cases(7.7%) of bleeding occurred. All bleeding patients were successfully treated by conservative, endoscopic, interventional and other treatments. Logistic regression analysis showed that cyst size was an independent risk factor for bleeding after EUS-guided transmural drainage (P = 0.006; OR,2.722; 95%CI,1.327–5.587).
conclusion
The cyst size was an independent risk factor for bleeding after PFC drainage. Slowing the rate of decline in intracystic pressure may reduce the risk of bleeding.
Virtual Screening of Antivirals Targeting H275Y Mutation in Neuraminidase gene of Oseltamivir Drug Resistant Influenza Strains
Authors: Khan Wajihul Hasan , Khan Nida , Tembhre Manoj Kumar , Malik Zubair , Ansari Meraj Ahmad , Mishra Avinash
Published: November 2024

Neuraminidase (NA) is an essential enzyme located at the outer layer of the influenza virus and plays a key role in the release of virions. This study aims to identify and analyze possible inhibitors of NA from different subtypes of influenza viruses, especially considering global outbreaks that highlight the immediate requirement for effective antiviral drugs. Initially, a thorough search was conducted in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) to gather structures of NA proteins that were attached with oseltamivir, a widely recognized inhibitor of NA. Here, 36 PDB entries were found with NA-oseltamivir complexes which were studied to evaluate the diversity and mutations present in various subtypes. Finally, N1(H1N1) protein was selected that demonstrated low IC50 value of oseltamivir with mutation H275Y. In addition, the study utilized BiMODAL generative model to generate 1000 novel molecules with comparable structures to oseltamivir. A QSAR model, based on machine learning (ML), was built utilizing the ChEMBL database to improve the selection process of candidate inhibitors. These inhibitors were subsequently analyzed by molecular docking and further the best hits compounds (compound_375, compound_106 and compound_597) were tacked to make a bigger molecule (compound_106–375, compound_106–597, and compound_375–597) to fit into the binding pocket of protein. Further, triplicate molecular dynamics simulations lasting 100 ns to assess their effectiveness and binding stability, showed that compound_106–375 had the most stable binding with the protein. Key residues, including Asn146, Ala138, and Tyr155, form critical interactions with the ligand, contributing to its stability. The investigation was enhanced by employing principal component analysis (PCA), free energy landscape (FEL), and binding free energy calculations. The total binding free energy (GTOTAL) of -17.74 kcal/mol suggests that the contact between compound_106–375 and the mutant N1 (H1N1) protein is thermodynamically favorable. This approach allowed for a thorough comprehension of the binding interactions and possible effectiveness of the discovered inhibitors. Overall, these findings demonstrate that compound_106–375 exhibits favorable binding characteristics and stability, making it a promising candidate for further development as a therapeutic agent against the mutant N1 (H1N1) protein, potentially overcoming the challenges associated with drug resistance in influenza viruses.
Facile synthesis and effective adsorption of magnetic alginate biogel composite for lanthanum ions from water
Authors: Su Nier , Li Beigang
Published: November 2024

A novel eco-friendly magnetic alginate biogel composite (Ca-SA@Fe3O4) was synthesized through droplet polymerization and characterized using multiple techniques. Furthermore, the impact of factors, such as dosage, pH, contact time, temperature and the presence of co-existing ions on the efficiency of the removal for La(III) ions by the composite were systematically investigated. The evaluation and exploration were conducted on the adsorption performance, reusability, and interaction mechanism of the magnetic composite towards La(III) ions. The results show that the magnetic composite gel beats have a particle scale of approximately 1.3 mm, a peculiar folded structure with numerous surface pores and sensitive magnetive responsiveness. La(III)-ion removal from water by Ca-SA@Fe3O4 reached 90.2% at pH 7.0, contact time of 20 h and 298 K. The La(III) adsorption behaviour was in accordance with the Langmuir model, and the maximum adsorption capacity was up to 91.0 mg/g. The spontaneous adsorption process exhibited kinetics that were in accordance with the Pseudo-second-order model, suggesting a favorable agreement. Complexation and electrostatic adsorption between the composite and La(III) ions facilitate the strong adsorption of La(III) ions. The commonly coexisting ions and ionic strength hardly interfered with the La(III) adsorption, apart from a minor influence of Ca2+ ions. The biogel composite following adsorption of La(III) ions can be completely recovered and reused at least four times. Ca-SA@Fe3O4 composite would be a cost-effective macroparticle biosorbent.
Effect of Temperature and Heating rate on Pyrolysis Characteristics of Spent Coffee Grounds
Authors: Ko Hyeong tak , Lee Myeong jong , Choi Jeong woo , Oh Sea Cheon
Published: November 2024

Considerable increase in global coffee consumption has resulted in a marked increase in the amount of spent coffee grounds (SCG). To examine the applicability of SCG as a renewable energy source this study evaluated the pyrolysis characteristics of SCG. Elemental and proximate analyses were conducted on SCG, and kinetic analysis was performed using thermogravimetric analysis to identify the activation energy for the pyrolysis reaction. The experiment was performed in a nitrogen atmosphere using a fixed-bed reactor to analyze the gas and liquid products as well as the solid residues produced from the pyrolysis reaction by varying the reaction temperature and heating rate. The activation energy for the pyrolysis reaction of coffee hemicellulose and cellulose was higher than that for the pyrolysis reaction of lignin. With regard to gaseous products, CO and CO2 began to occur at a lower temperature than hydrocarbons, and hydrocarbons began to occur at approximately 330 °C. The yield of the liquid products was highest at 500 °C, and it increased with the heating rate. Moreover, most of the liquid products were components containing oxygen, and the compound composition of the liquid products depended on the reaction temperature and heating rate. The yield of the solid residues decreased according to the reaction temperature and heating rate, and it was confirmed through infrared and X-ray diffraction spectrum analysis that gradual carbonization occurred according to reaction conditions.
A Novel Framework for Analyzing User Behavior in Live Streaming: Enhancing Prediction Accuracy with a Hawkes Process-Based Encoding- Decoding Model
Authors: Wang Xin , Liu Dong-feng
Published: November 2024

Live streaming has emerged as a prevalent sales strategy in today's online retail environment, yet purchase behavior during these sessions remains sparse despite attracting vast audiences. To gain insights into consumer viewing habits, this paper introduces a novel user behavior analysis framework that evaluates the effectiveness of live streaming by measuring the time users take to make purchase decisions after viewing. This framework captures users' viewing patterns by defining specific behaviors during live streams. It introduces an innovative Hawkes process-based encoding-decoding model to enhance the accuracy of prediction of user viewing behavior. The research focuses on three core areas: assessing the overall quality of live streaming, constructing an accurate data structure to record user live-streaming behavior, and developing a model for in-depth analysis and prediction of user behavior. Specifically, it entails crafting a new evaluation method centered on user engagement duration within live streams, defining a comprehensive behavior sequence to document user actions, and proposing a hierarchical encoding-decoding model that improves prediction accuracy for user behavior and live stream quality. Ultimately, the application of this model to real-world shopping datasets demonstrates its superiority in predicting live viewing behavior compared to existing methodologies.
Environmental enrichment alleviates neuropathic pain-associated anxiety by enhancing the function of parvalbumin interneurons in the anterior cingulate cortex
Authors: Ren Zhuo-Yu , Han Bao-Yu , Zhao Li-Yuan , Lou Xue-Jie , Tao Yuan-Xiang , Zhang Guang-Fen , Yang Jian-Jun
Published: November 2024

Chronic neuropathic pain is often accompanied with comorbid anxiety. However, effective interventions of this anxiety are highly limited. This study aims to examine the effect of environmental enrichment (EE) on spared nerve injury (SNI)-induced neuropathic pain-associated anxiety behaviors and explore the mechanisms underlying this effect. EE could effectively ameliorate anxiety-like behaviors followed by SNI. EE also significantly reversed the phenotypic loss of parvalbumin (PV) interneurons in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and impaired gamma oscillations under SNI-induced neuropathic pain conditions. In addition, EE reversed the SNI-induced reduction in number of PV puncta around Ca²⁺/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II-positive neurons. Furthermore, enhancing the function of PV interneurons could effectively improve the SNI-caused anxiety-like behaviors. In contrast, the inhibiting function of PV interneurons led to anxiety-like behaviors in native mice. Our findings suggest that EE significantly improves anxiety-like behaviors under neuropathic pain conditions likely by enhancing the function of PV interneurons in ACC.
Title of the journal: Health professionals’ level of knowledge regarding integrating mental health services with Human immunodeficiency services at primary health care
Authors: Posholi Malerotholi Thabida , Baphumelele Winnie
Published: November 2024

Background
Patients with Human immunodeficiency virus are more likely to experience mental health problems, which has an adverse effect on how well they respond to highly active antiretroviral treatment. Increased mental health problems that are not treated have caused increased prevalence of mental health problems, increased prevalence of medical conditions and very poor economy but mental health services are lacking.
Aim
The aim of the study was to describe health professionals’ level of knowledge regarding integration of mental health services into Human immunodeficiency virus services at primary health care.
Setting
The study was conducted in five primary health cares in Maseru district, Lesotho.
Methods
This study employed mixed methods, and made use of quantitative (self-administered questionnaire) and qualitative (in-depth interviews).
Results
69.7% of respondents reported that they do not have knowledge to manage mental health problems in people living with Human immunodeficiency virus.
The qualitative findings further showed that majority of health professionals did not have enough knowledge to identify signs and symptoms of mental health problems in people living with Human immunodeficiency virus, no adequate knowledge to diagnose and manage all people presenting with mental health problems and also living with Human immunodeficiency virus. To account for possible factors, comparisons were made using a Chi-square statistical test for the categorical data and a t-test/Wilcoxon rank-sum test for the numeric data. All analyses were performed using SPSS version 26, and a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Conclusion
Health professionals were not providing mental health services in people presenting with mental health problems and Human immunodeficiency virus mainly because of lack of knowledge to identify signs and symptoms, diagnose and manage people presenting with mental health problems in people living with Human immunodeficiency virus.
Contribution
The study confirmed lack of knowledge regarding mental health in health professionals and therefore there is an urgent need to act on this matter as this large treatment gap cause so many complications.
Trauma-analogue symptoms relate to inhibitory control, peritraumatic response and reminder interference
Authors: Petersdotter Linn , Miller Lindsey , Johansson Mikael , Hammar Åsa
Published: November 2024

It remains poorly understood why some individuals develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) while others do not. This study aimed to examine factors predicting variability in trauma-related symptom development. Using a trauma-film paradigm in a healthy sample (N = 32), we investigated how inhibitory control and peritraumatic responses relate to the development of intrusive memories and self-assessed event impact. Peritraumatic heart rate was associated with more frequent, vivid, and distressing memory intrusions during the week following trauma-analogue exposure. It also predicted hyperarousal and avoidance symptoms, with the latter further linked to lower inhibitory control. In a cognitive-interference task conducted approximately one day after trauma-analogue exposure, negative trauma reminders increased response latencies. This reduced interference control was predicted by both lower inhibitory control and higher peritraumatic heart rate, and it was especially pronounced in individuals who reported a heightened overall event impact. In conclusion, inhibitory control and peritraumatic heart rate emerged as predictors of subsequent reminder interference, intrusions, and self-assessed event impact. These findings provide insights into physiological and behavioural mechanisms underlying variability in the development of trauma-analogue symptoms and related cognitive interference when exposed to trauma reminders in a healthy sample without a trauma history.
Comparative Content Analysis of Biogas Produced From Pig Dung and Cow Dung at Kansanga Seed Biogas Plant Uganda.
Authors: Ounyesiga Living , Daniel Omuna , Nnamchi Stephen Ndubuisi , Bawa Musa , Akiyode oluwole
Published: November 2024

Numerous issues, including environmental deterioration, global climate change, and a host of health issues, have been brought on by an excessive reliance on fossil fuels as the main energy source. The present increase in the cost of natural gas and oil has necessitated this study of alternate energy sources. In order to examine the properties of biogas produced from pig manure and cow dung, this study was conducted. Before feeding, the chosen substrates were combined with water in a 1:1 ratio and examined for stones or other extraneous elements. The 90-liter digester was then filled with the mixture. Every setup featured a thermometer to track variations in temperature. The percentage contents of methane, carbon dioxide, oxygen, hydrogen sulfide, and carbon monoxide were measured in the biogas that was produced. On the twenty-third day of digestion, a mixture of thirty kilograms of pig dung and thirty liters of water produced the highest methane output of 52.3. On day 22, the percentage of biogas generated from cow dung reached its highest point, 48.6%. Temperature, trace gases like hydrogen sulfide, and rain all reduced the amount of methane that could be produced in the study area.
Validation of the shortest version of the Eating Attitude Test (EAT-7) as a screening tool for disordered eating in patients with first-episode schizophrenia
Authors: Fekih-Romdhane Feten , Boukadida Youssef , Cheour Majda , Hallit Souheil
Published: November 2024

Background: Over the past decades, the Eating Attitude Test (EAT) has been well-recognized and widely used in clinical practice. However, only little psychometric information is available on the EAT for researchers and clinicians who deal with patients with schizophrenia, and it is still unclear whether the scale could fulfill measurement needs and help clinical and research decision-making in the context of psychotic disorders. This study aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of the shortest version of the EAT (EAT-7) among newly-diagnosed patients with schizophrenia who had minimal exposure to antipsychotics at the start of the study.
Methods: This is an observational, cross-sectional survey that was carried out in the department of psychiatry at Razi Hospital, Manouba, Tunisia. The study took place between January and June 2024, and involved clinically-stabilized outpatients with schizophrenia who have had <3 months of treatment with antipsychotics (N=112; mean age of 24.44 ± 5.41 years).
Results: In terms of factor analysis, the EAT-7 presented a one-dimensional structure. All seven items strongly loaded on a single factor, with all indices of the CFA suggesting a good fit to the data. In addition, the EAT-7 yielded excellent reliability coefficients, with both a McDonald’s ω and a Cronbach’s α of 0.88. Measurement invariance of the EAT-7 across sex groups was tested using multi-group CFA, and established at the configural, scalar, and metric levels. No significant differences in EAT-7 scores between males and females were found. Finally, EAT-7 scores positively correlated with scores of depression and anxiety, supporting concurrent validity of the scale.
Conclusion: The shortness, items’ clarity and conciseness of the EAT-7 make it an efficient tool appropriate as a first-step screening tool to detect disordered eating in patients with schizophrenia at low cost and burden. We hope that this study will facilitate the widespread application of the EAT-7 in routine assessment and monitoring of disordered eating in patients with schizophrenia, in both clinical and research practices.
Association Between the TG/HDL-c Ratio and Hyperuricemia in Women participants in China: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Liang Hao , You Jia , Zhu Ye
Published: November 2024

Objectives: The study aimed to assess the clinical value of the triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol(TG/HDL-c) ratio as a diagnostic marker for hyperuricemia (HUA) in female population in China.
Methods: A total of 21,316 eligible female participants, aged 18 years and older, were consecutively recruited during routine medical examinations at Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital from July 2014 to August 2023. Participants were divided into four groups based on their TG/HDL-c ratio values. Logistic regression analysis models were employed to further investigate the correlation between the prevalence of HUA and TG/HDL-c ratio in this region.Restricted cubic splines (RCS) were used to explore the linear associations of TG/HDL-c and HUA.
Results: The average age of participants was 42.68±13.96 years and the overall prevalence of HUA is 6.41%. The mean uric acid level was 265.34±59.72umol/L. The univariate logistic analysis showed that a higher TG/HDL-c ratio was positively correlated with the presence of hyperuricemia (OR (95%CI) =3.601(3.281,3.951), P < 0.001). In different age groups of female participants, we found a statistically significant association between higher levels of TG/HDL-c and HUA(P<0.05). In female participants, there was a nonlinear association between TG/HDL-c and HUA (P < 0.001).After adjusting for multiple covariates, this study found a significant interaction between TG/HDL-c and BMI, as well as creatinine, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05).The AUC for TG/HDL-c in predicting the occurrence of HUA among female participants was 0.717(95%Cl:0.703-0.731).
Conclusions: An elevated TG/HDL-C ratio increases the risk of HUA in females in eastern China, particularly in individuals with low creatinine levels and normal body weight. Monitoring TG/HDL-c levels may be beneficial for preventing HUA in women.