bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning Aids Imputation of Missing Petrophysical Data in Iraqi Reservoir
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: August 2024

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 218890, “Applied Machine Learning for the Imputation of Missing Core Petrophysical Property Data in Clastic and Carbonate Reservoirs,” by Hussein B. Abdulkhaleq, Basrah University for Oil and Gas; Watheq J. Al-Mudhafar, SPE, Basrah Oil Company; and David A. Wood, DWA Energy, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

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The study described in the complete paper comprehensively compares seven imputation techniques for predicting missing core-measured horizontal and vertical permeability and porosity data in two wells drilled in the North Rumaila oil field of southern Iraq. The results reveal that a data-imputation method consisting of multivariate imputation by chained equations (MICE) combined with classification and regression trees (CART) outperforms the other methods with the clastic and carbonate data sets studied. The novel workflow is suitable for application in both clastic and carbonate reservoir formations.

Introduction

To account for reservoir heterogeneity in 3D reservoir modeling, advanced techniques are required to improve the accuracy and reliability of estimating missing core-analysis data points. The imputation of missing data refers to a range of statistical and machine-learning (ML) methods that supplement core-sample reanalysis or additional core-sample collection to fill data gaps.

This study evaluates seven data-imputation methods involving ML algorithms:

- Iterative robust model-based imputation (IRMI)

- MICE combined with CART

- Random imputation of missing data (RIMD)

- Sequential imputation (SEQimpute)

- Random forest imputation (RF)

- Principal component analysis imputation (PCA)

- Multiple imputation of incomplete multivariate data (AMELIA package)

These core-data imputation methods are applied to two wells penetrating the clastic Zubair formation of the North Rumaila oil field. The results are assessed by univariate statistical analysis and illustrated using histograms and box plots. The results are sufficiently encouraging to justify the application of the methodology to other clastic and carbonate reservoirs but require additional assessment with a wide range of core-analysis data sets.

Geological Setting

Rumaila covers an area of 1600 km2 and represents a north/south anticline extending from the border with Kuwait in the south toward the West Qurna oilfield to the north. The Rumaila anticline includes two domal compartments (north and south). The North Rumaila structure was drilled as a stepout well to further delineate the Mishrif formation (main reservoir) and test the underlying Zubair formation.
Subsea Development Challenges Overcome in the Mero Field
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: August 2024

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper OTC 32705, “Mero Field: Subsea Development Challenges,” by Leonidio Buk Jr., Rafael M. Pereira, and Claudio J.G.M. Valença, Petrobras, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2024 Offshore Technology Conference.

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The complete paper presents the technological achievements in the subsea scope of the Mero field development. Mero is the third-largest presalt field and the first developed under a production sharing contract (PSC). The paper details the subsea system development for the Mero field that was recognized with the Distinguished Achievement Award by OTC Brazil and how Mero early production system (EPS) operation influenced the final configuration for all Mero projects. The paper also presents the technical challenges that had to be overcome to initiate production successfully.

Introduction

The Libra block is approximately 180 km from Rio de Janeiro in ultradeep water of the Santos Basin varying from 1700 to 2400 m, under a presalt layer. The prospect area is close to 1500 km2. The reservoir fluid has a gas/oil ratio (GOR) of 440 sm3/sm3 and CO2 content in gas varying from 40 to 45% in volume. These conditions carry many challenges that must be overcome to develop the subsea production system.

Four years after the signing of the PSC in November 2017, a Libra extended well test (EWT) produced the block’s first oil with the floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel Pioneiro de Libra declaring northwest block-portion commerciality. The asset was thence named Mero Field. From that point, the Libra EWT became known as the EPS, continuing foreseen planned tests in the field and interconnecting the FPSO to different producer and injection wells to gather valuable reservoir information to drive block development. In April 2022, Mero 1, the first permanent project in the Mero field, began production with FPSO Guanabara.

To explore, derisk, and optimize the development concept of the large Mero field, the Libra Consortium launched an EWT campaign using the Pioneiro da Libra as it moved between different locations in the field. This FPSO vessel connected to one or two production wells and one injection well in each location. The development concept used flexible lines and thermoplastic umbilicals. The FPSO started operation in 2017. At the time of writing, the FPSO has performed three EWTs combining different production and injection wells.

Mero Projects

By 2025, the Mero field will have four additional FPSO vessels besides Pioneiro de Libra. The first is Guanabara, which began producing in April of 2022 in the Mero 1 area. The second is Sepetiba, which will begin operations in the Mero 2 project area, followed by Marechal Duque de Caxias in Mero 3, and Alexandre de Gusmão in Mero 4 (Fig. 1).
Improvements in Education and Training to Enhance Police Forensic Expertise: Focusing on comparison of overseas cases
Authors: Noh Heejoo , Kim Yeon Soo ,   Korean Association of Public Safety and Criminal Justice
Published: August 2024

The expertise of crime scene investigators directly impacts an organization's overall investigative capacity and external public trust. Consequently, enhancing and continually managing the expertise of individual crime scene investigators is recognized as a crucial aspect of crime scene investigation. Education plays a pivotal role in bolstering capabilities across the police force, including crime scene investigation. However, the domestic training system of crime scene investigation still faces criticisms for various limitations, such as a lack of professionalism in the curriculum and insufficient educational resources.
This study aimed to explore the future development of the domestic training system of crime scene investigation by addressing identified issues and necessities. To achieve this goal, the operational framework of the domestic training system of crime scene investigation was examined, and insights were drawn by analyzing training practices in several overseas countries (USA, Canada, France, Japan).
Based on the research findings, the following improvement measures for the domestic training system are proposed. First, specialized education by field should be systematically divided based on the strengths of each institution. This approach will help alleviate the training burden on the Police Investigation Training Institute and enable efficient utilization of training resources across institutions. Second, completion periods for each major curriculum should be clearly defined. This strategy aims to enhance the training completion rate of scientific investigators and encourage timely completion based on career stage. Third, the quality of every training courses should be periodically managed. It is essential to periodically review and update training courses for practitioners. Leveraging scientific investigation advisory groups and relevant academic societies can ensure that educational content remains aligned with the scope of duties and current trends in forensic science.
A Study on the Relationship between Police Legitimacy and Police use of Force: Focusing on the Mediating Effect of the Obligation to Comply with the law
Authors: Eem Tae Jin , Bae Byeong Jun , Yun Sanggu ,   Korean Association of Public Safety and Criminal Justice
Published: August 2024

This study was designed to verify two things. The first is to verify the relationship between citizens' perception of police legitimacy and acceptance of police use of force. The second is to verify the mediating effect of the sense of obligation to comply with the law in the relationship between police legitimacy and police use of force. To achieve the research objectives, an online survey was conducted on 539 Seoul citizens. After that, the analysis was performed using the SPSS 27.0 program and the Model 4 analysis method of the Macro Process Model 4.2. As a result, it was confirmed that the increase in citizens' perception of police legitimacy leads to an increase in citizens' perception of the legitimacy of exercising police physical power. Specifically, multidimensional police legitimacy, procedural fairness, police effectiveness, distributive fairness, and legality all had a significant and positive effect on the recognition of the legitimacy of the exercise of police physical power. However, the mediating effect of the sense of legal compliance obligation could be confirmed only in one of the sub-factors of multidimensional police legitimacy. Based on the research results, a plan to raise the awareness of police legitimacy and police physical power was suggested.
Bridging the Gap Between GPDR and Software Development: The MATERIALIST Framework
Authors: Saltarella Marco , Desolda Giuseppe , Esposito Andrea , Greco Francesco , Lanzilotti Rosa
Published: August 2024

As software production evolves, privacy is becoming an increasingly important consideration. This is especially true as national and supranational regulations, such as GDPR, require privacy as a mandatory aspect of software development. However, challenges such as a lack of knowledge about privacy and data protection regulations hinder the adoption of effective and compliant privacy implementation mechanisms. To address this issue, this article presents MATERIALIST, a methodological and technological framework that supports stakeholders involved in a software development lifecycle in including GDPR in their activities. Specifically, it provides design patterns that can be selected starting from GDPR articles, code vulnerabilities, and software lifecycle phases. The framework aims to facilitate the adoption of appropriate privacy implementation mechanisms in the software development lifecycle, thereby improving software quality.
Transgenic Tomato Strategies Targeting Whitefly Eggs from Apoplastic or Ovary-Directed Proteins
Authors: Thompson Natalie S. , Anwar Aliya Fathima , Krum David , Ream Michael , Shouse Eva , Weston Zachary , Chen Yun-Ru , Sam Aisa , Deguchi Michihito , Kariuki Samwel M. , Rudrabhatla Sairam V. , Curtis Wayne R.
Published: August 2024

Background
Transgenic plants expressing proteins that target the eggs of the ubiquitous plant pest Bemisia tabaci (whitefly) could be an effective insecticide strategy. Two approaches for protein delivery are assessed using the mCherry reporter gene in transgenic tomato plants, while accommodating autofluorescence in both the plant, phloem-feeding whitefly and pedicle-attached eggs.
Results
Both transgenic strategies were segregated to homozygous genotype using digital PCR. The first strategy uses a glycotransferase secretion signal peptide. Despite bright apoplastic accumulation, mCherry is not evident in the eggs. The second strategy targets in vivo whitefly eggs, where the mCherry transgene was fused to a protein transduction domain (PTD) to facilitate uptake into the whitefly hemolymph as well as a synthetic vitellogenin ovary-targeting sequence. Phloem-specific expression of the mCherry fusion is achieved from a Commelina viral promoter. Accumulation was not sufficient to be observed in females feeding on these ovary-targeting plants nor in their eggs subsequently laid on non-transgenic plants. Egg protection may be mediated by protease activity which is observed in macerated eggs.
Conclusions
mCherry proved an effective reporter for the desired tissue-specific expression in tomato, but insufficiently sensitive to allow for localization in feeding whiteflies or their eggs. Segregated homozygous transgenic tomato lines were important for drawing these conclusions. The implications of these observations to possible pest-control strategies including preliminary expression of analogous chitinase constructs are discussed.
Heterogenous causal effects of serum fatty acid levels on the risk of cerebral and abdominal aortic aneurysm: a Mendelian Randomization study
Authors: Hang Ji , Yujing Han , Hailan Yang , Yue Li , Guicheng Kuang , Shaoshan Hu , Chao You , Haogeng Sun , Chaofeng Fan , Liu Yi
Published: August 2024

The presence of aneurysms, encompassing cerebral and abdominal aortic aneurysms, poses significant risks to individuals' health. The serum fatty acids (FAs) are implicated in various diseases, yet their causal association with different aneurysms remain less understood. In this study, the summary-level datasets associated with FAs and cerebral and abdominal aortic aneurysms from the UK Biobank and BioBank Japan were included. Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, replicated and reverse MR analysis were conducted to explore the causal association between serum FA levels with both cerebral aneurysm (CA) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AA). The inverse variance weighting (IVW) was used as the primary method, together with sensitivity analyses for pleiotropy and heterogenous tests. As a result, the ratio of omega-6 FAs to omega-3 FAs serves as a detrimental effector of CA, and ratio of docosahexaenoic acid to total FA levels, omega-3 FA levels and ratio of omega-3 FAs to total FAs are beneficial effectors. Counterintuitively, monounsaturated FAs (MUFAs), ratio of MUFAs to total FAs, and omega-6 FAs serve as detrimental effectors of AA. Collectively, these results suggest novel serum FA levels of causal association with CA and AA, and shed light upon the distinct molecular underpinnings of the two types of aneurysms.
Earthquake Risk Scenarios in Urban Areas using Machine learning: A case study of Skikda city, Algeria
Authors: Guettiche Abdelheq , Soltane Mohamed Abdelali
Published: August 2024

This study aims to implement two distinct approaches for evaluating the seismic vulnerability of Skikda city. The first approach is the traditional European macroseismic Risk-UE LM1 method, which involves in-situ surveys of building characteristics. However, this approach is time-consuming, costly, and necessitates the involvement of highly qualified personnel. The second approach utilizes a data-mining technique called Association Rule Learning (ARL) to minimize the need for extensive building attribute data. The ARL method associates building attributes with the European Macroseismic Scale (EMS-98) vulnerability classes obtained from visual observation surveys. We then validated the obtained vulnerability proxies in the Skikda database. While minor variations exist in the probability of exceeding the specified damage level, a comparison of Risk-UE LM1 and ARL results confirms the general reliability of the seismic vulnerability assessment. The damage estimates are evaluated against deterministic and probabilistic scenarios, considering moderate to severe damage and other impacts such as human casualties, direct economic costs, and debris volumes.
Spatiotemporal Variational Autoencoder forIntersection Pedestrian Trajectory Prediction
Authors: Yu Qing , Xu Zhenwei , Zhou Yaoyong , Zeng Jiaqi , Silamu Wushouer
Published: August 2024

This paper proposes an innovative Spatiotemporal Variational Autoencoder (ST-VAE) model, aimed at effectively capturing the spatiotemporal features of pedestrian behavior to enhance the accuracy of pedestrian trajectory prediction at intersections. To address the complex relationships in pedestrian social interactions, the paper designs a Social Graph Attention Network (SGAT) that dynamically identifies the relative importance of traffic participants, optimizing interaction analysis. Additionally, the paper introduces a Complex Gated Recurrent Unit (CGRU) to accurately capture the dynamic changes in time series data, thereby optimizing future trajectory predictions.To eliminate bias and improve prediction accuracy, the paper designs a Diversity-Enhanced Final Position Clustering (DEFPC) method as a post-processing technique. Evaluation results on four public datasets show that the ST-VAE model reduces the Average Displacement Error (ADE) and Final Displacement Error (FDE) by 27.2% and 18.2%, respectively, compared to the current best benchmark model SocialCVAE, demonstrating significant performance advantages. Further ablation studies reveal the specific contributions of each component to the model's performance, confirming the effectiveness and robustness of ST-VAE in handling diverse environments and complex interaction scenarios.Overall, the ST-VAE model not only provides new perspectives for pedestrian trajectory prediction technology but also offers solid technical support for the development of autonomous driving planning systems, showcasing the immense potential of deep learning in intelligent transportation system applications. Through innovative model design and comprehensive experimental validation, this paper provides new methodologies for efficient pedestrian trajectory prediction, advancing the development of the intelligent transportation field.
Fertility rate and determinants of fertility among women with epilepsy at Debre Birhan Referral Hospital, North Shewa, Ethiopia
Authors: Kasahun Fetene , Urge Yonas Teshome , Worku Negese , Solomon Yerukneh , Alaro Melaku Geletu , Chala Getahun
Published: August 2024

Background
Fertility is defined as the number of live births per thousand women. There are increased reproductive problems among women with epilepsy (WWE) who are taking antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Literatures indicate that there is a greater risk of pregnancy complications related to seizures and the drugs taken by these patients. Therefore, the main aim of this research was to determine the fertility rate and determinants of fertility among women with epilepsy at Debre Birhan Referral Hospital, North Shewa, Ethiopia.
Methods
A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted, and a total of 88 reproductive-aged women with epilepsy were interviewed about their pregnancy and birth histories. The authors’ questionnaire was used to assess the sociodemographic data and clinical characteristics of the patients. The clinical data were also crosschecked with the medical records.
Results
Of the 88 women with epilepsy included in this study, 35 (39.8%) were married, and 45 (51.1%) had a history of pregnancy. The mean number of live births among women with epilepsy was 3.15 (± 1.41 SD). Of the total pregnancies, approximately one-third were complicated, six (13.3%) ended up with abortion, 2 (4.4%) were stillborn, and 5 (11.1%) had birth defects. Among the 5 (11.1%) birth defects that occurred, 2 (4.4%) were hydrocephalus, while 3 (6.7%) were neural tube defects. All stillbirths and/or abortions were among women with a body mass index (BMI) less than 18.5 kg/m2. A total of 33.3% of the deliveries were at home, and 89.7% of the health facility deliveries were delivered by cesarean section. Slightly fewer than half 20, (44.4%) of the pregnancies were unplanned. Contraceptive failure was reported by 15.6% (7/45) of the women. Pills and condoms were reported as methods that failed to protect against pregnancy. The fertility rate of reproductive-aged women with epilepsy for the three years preceding the data collection period was 0.4 per 1000 women.
Conclusion
The fertility rate of women with epilepsy was lower than that of the general population. Fetal loss, congenital malformation, and contraceptive failure were observed among women with epilepsy. Careful preconception care might be beneficial for attaining a healthy weight and adjusting antiepileptic drugs for women with epilepsy. A specific study for assessing the reasons for this disparity is recommended.
How Registered Nurses Learn with Virtual Patient Cases to Enhance Continuous Professional Development: A Qualitative Study in Primary Healthcare Settings in Low- Income Regions
Authors: Nyiringango Gerard , Fors Uno , Tumusiime David K , Forsberg Elenita
Published: August 2024

Background
Virtual Patients (VPs) are interactive computer simulations replicating real-life clinical scenarios. While primarily utilized in training healthcare students, VPs have also shown potential in improving the clinical reasoning skills of in-service healthcare providers like nurses in primary healthcare settings.
Aim
This study aimed to explore the opinions and perceptions of registered nurses regarding how Virtual Patients enhance learning for Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in primary healthcare settings, specifically at health centers in Rwanda.
Methods
The study employed a qualitative interpretive description design. Twelve nurses from six different health centers who have engaged in four virtual patient cases as continuous professional development exercises over a one-week period participated in individual and focus group interviews. The research employed inductive thematic analysis as its chosen method of analysis.
Results
The interview and focus group results indicate how nurses learn using VP cases for continuous professional development, which are categorized into three themes related to learning (motivates learning, enhancing clinical reasoning, and providing a safe learning environment) and two themes that report the feasibility and future predictions of using Virtual Patient case for learning among nurses working at health centers (primary health setting).
Conclusion
The results of this study indicate that VP cases can enhance the learning of practicing nurses for continuous professional development. The participants in this study acknowledge that engaging with VP cases allowed them to learn by reflecting on their daily practice and self-assessing when comparing their decisions with those of experts in VP cases.
Pulsed electromagnetic field stimulation:a preventive measure against glucocorticoid -induced osteoporosis in rats
Authors: Ding Shuai , Zhang Guangquan , Gao Yanzheng , Hou Zhiqiang , Shao Fuqiang
Published: August 2024

Background
The use of pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) has demonstrated effectiveness in the management of femoral head osteonecrosis as well as nonunion fractures; however, the effects of PEMF on preventing glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) have not been extensively studied. The aim of this investigation was to explore the effectiveness of PEMF stimulation in averting GIOP in rats and uncover the potential fundamental mechanisms involved.
Methods
A total of seventy-two adult male Wistar rats composed the experimental group and were subsequently assigned to three groups for treatment. (1) On the first day (day 0), 24 rats in the PEMF group were intravenously injected with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) at a concentration of 10 µg/kg. This was followed by intramuscular injections of methylprednisolone acetate (MPSL) at a dose of 20 mg/kg for the subsequent three days (days 1–3). Subsequently, the rats were exposed to PEMF for 4 hours daily, with the duration varying from 1 to 8 weeks. (2) Adhering to the injection schedule of the PEMF group, the MPSL group (consisting of 24 rats) was administered LPS and MPSL, omitting PEMF stimulation. (3) The PS group (n = 24) was administered injections of 0.9% saline solution in an identical manner and at the same time intervals as the other two groups. At 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after the last MPSL (or saline) injection, bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content (BMC), and the expression levels of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) mRNA and protein in the proximal femur were measured.
Results
Analysis of the PS and PEMF groups at 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after the final saline (or MPSL) injection revealed no statistically significant differences in BMD or BMC(P > 0.05). From weeks 2 through 8, the MPSL group rats displayed a marked decrease in BMD and BMC compared to those of the PS group, and at the 4-week and 8-week time points, these values were significantly lower than those of the PEMF group (P < 0.05). Compared with those in the MPSL and PS groups, the expression levels of BMP-2 mRNA markedly increased after PEMF treatment, peaking one week later and sustaining a heightened state for four weeks, but decreased only at the eighth week. Conversely, BMP-2 protein expression exhibited a similar upward trend, peaking two weeks after PEMF treatment and then remaining elevated for the subsequent eight weeks.
Conclusions
PEMF stimulation has been shown to have prophylactic potential against GIOP in rats, possibly through the upregulation expression of BMP-2 expression.
Dietary nano iron enhanced intestinal physical barrier, antioxidant capacity and immune function of juvenile Largemouth Bass (Micropterus nigricans)
Authors: He Kuo , Huang Rui , Yang Hangyu , Liu Qiao , Zhang Yaoyi , Yan Haoxiao , Hu Yifan , Tahir Rabia , Zhao Liulan , Yang Song
Published: August 2024

Nano-additives can improve the absorption and utilization of feed nutrients. In this study, we reported the effects of supplementary nano iron (0, 30, 60, 120, 240 and 480 mg/kg) on intestinal tract function of largemouth bass juveniles. Firstly, 60 mg/kg of supplementary nano iron improved the specific growth rate, and significantly increased the height and width of intestinal villi and intestinal absorption area, and improved the intestinal physical barrier of juvenile largemouth bass. Secondly, the supplementation of low concentration of nano iron can significantly increase the activity of intestinal antioxidant enzymes (CAT and T-SOD), enhance the expression of antioxidant-related genes (SOD1, Nrf-2) and proteins (CAT; P < 0.05), and decrease malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Meanwhile, supplementation with 60 mg/kg of nano iron resulted in the highest survival rate following intraperitoneal injection of Nocardia. However, supplementation of 480 mg/kg would compromise the immune and antioxidant capacity of juvenile largemouth bass. This was evidenced by increased expression of inflammatory and apoptotic genes, significant reduction in the expression of intestinal tight junction genes (ZO-1, Acludin1, Acludin7; P < 0.05), impairment of intestinal physical barriers, and exacerbation of oxidative stress levels in the organism, ultimately resulting in decreased immunity. In conclusion, moderate supplementation of nano iron appears to enhance the intestinal physical barrier, antioxidant capacity, and immune function of juvenile largemouth bass.
Bifidobacterium longum subsp infantis (EVC001) is Associated with Reduced Incidence of Necrotizing Enterocolitis Stage >2 and Bloody Stools in Premature Babies
Authors: Sohn Kristin , Palacios Victoria , Clark Reese
Published: August 2024

Objective To utilize an evidence-based probiotic protocol to achieve a 50% reduction in necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) > stage 2 and bloody stools.
Study design From January 2022 through September 2023, we administered daily enteral EVC001 to babies <33 6/7 weeks gestation until 36 weeks post menstrual age. We compared feeding tolerance and complications to babies admitted during the prior two-year period. Fisher’s Exact test was used to analyze proportional data and student t-test was used for continuous variables.
Results 265 babies received EVC001. 277 babies formed the pre-probiotic cohort. Probiotic use was associated with decreased NEC > stage 2 (p=0.0058), reduced bloody stools (p<0.0001), decreased time to full enteral feeds (p<0.0001), and decreased total parenteral nutrition (TPN) days (p<0.0001).
Conclusion Supplementation with B. infantis was associated with a decrease in NEC, a decrease in bloody stools, and improvement in feeding tolerance in premature babies.
The influence of pulp swelling degree during pre-mixing on the stability of Lyocell solution
Authors: Gunawan Ivana , Zhang Yue , Wang Huijie , Kou Mengtian , Wang Chao , Zhang Yumei
Published: August 2024

Pulp pre-mixing acts as a preliminary treatment in the lyocell process which allows aqueous NMMO solvent molecules to penetrate wood fiber structure. The present paper first determines the pre-swelling, swelling, and dissolution phenomena of cellulose in NMMO aqueous solutions of different concentrations and temperatures. It was found that instead of “pre-swelling” and “dissolution”, the “swelling” action during pre-mixing develops the most suitable interaction between wood pulp fiber and solvent. Higher concentrations of NMMO aqueous solutions (70–80%) contain a small amount of water, which limits the uniformly wetting of the pulp, while lower NMMO concentration (50%) are not able to fully establish the hydrogen bonding interaction between cellulose and NMMO. The pre-mixing of cellulose pulp using 60% NMMO aqueous solution at 65oC can ensure that NMMO does not degrade and provide sufficient solvent diffusivity for pulp based on the swelling effect, significantly reducing the formation of heterogeneous microstructure aggregations and effectively promoting subsequent dissolution processes. The dissolved cellulose has more uniformity at the molecular level, showing lower dope relaxation time and gel temperature, which offers better alternatives to the need for stable, high-viscosity lyocell spinning, and constructs stronger fiber compared to that of untreated pulp.
Price Efficiency in Emerging Equity Markets during Recent Crises Periods: Empirical Evidence from Equity Markets in BRICS Countries
Authors: Lee Seungho , McCann Laura , Amanulla Ameerabeevi
Published: August 2024

This study examines the impact of increased systematic risk on the efficiency of equity markets in emerging countries, focusing on the BRICS market (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). We measure market efficiency by analyzing the spot and futures prices of indices in these markets using the futures-spot arbitrage test over recent crisis periods. Our findings suggest that mispricing existed among the major indices of the BRICS market before the crises, but that the crises exacerbated the extent of mispricing. We also find that there are noteworthy variations amongst the BRICS markets in terms of how market efficiency changed during the downturns, highlighting the need for heterogeneous investment strategies for each individual market.
JEL Classification: F15; F22; G14
Management of Depression in Primary Care in Catalonia: A Mixed- method Study
Authors: Fuster-Casanovas Aïna , Moretó Sònia , Catalina Queralt Miró , Vidal-Alaball Josep , Carrion Carme
Published: August 2024

Purpose
Consultations related to major depression have increased significantly in recent years in Primary Care (PC) in Catalonia. PC is key in the approach, so we analysed the training and alignment with clinical practice guidelines (CPG) of PC professionals in Catalonia and explored their perceptions of the results obtained.
Methods
Explanatory sequential study. Cross-sectional observational study through surveys carried out on nursing and medical professionals and community emotional wellness referents (RBEC), followed by a qualitative study of phenomenological design through focus groups in the same disciplines.
Results
Most professionals feel poorly trained (63.5%) and do not consider themselves aligned (58.3%) with the CPG. In the focus groups, there was a widespread awareness of the PC approach to depression. It was detected that the lack of homogeneity in clinical practice is due to a lack of both time and resources, and a predominantly pharmacological approach. It was expressed that practical training focused on PC, together with collaborative care, unification of CPG and working with the social determinants of health could help in homogenisation. However, a certain reluctance towards eHealth in the approach to depression was detected.
Conclusions
It has been detected that professionals feel poorly trained and aligned with CPG. However, the qualitative study has made it possible to analyse the enabling factors that may explain the results obtained. The detailed analysis that has been performed may help in the development of specific strategies to improve the approach to depression in PC in Catalonia, as well as the implementation of technology in the process.
The complete mitochondrial genome and phylogenetic analysis of the ornate flying snake Chrysopelea ornata (Shaw 1802) Colubridae
Authors: Dinesh D , Roy Soma , Ishani M
Published: August 2024

The first complete mitochondrial genome sequencing of golden tree snake, gliding snake, ornate flying snake, golden flying snake, and flying tree snake (Chrysopelea ornate_shaw 1802) was conducted utilizing Next-generation sequencing technologies. The complete mitochondrial genome of flying tree snake is 17,252 bp long with a base composition of A-36%, T- 27%, G-12%, C-25% with a GC content of 38%. Chrysopelea ornata also shows mitogenome organization of 37 genes including 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes and two non-coding regions. Nine genes including eight tRNAs and NAD6 were encoded. Phylogenetic investigations, utilizing the entire mitochondrial genome of chrysopelea ornata, reveal a strong association with the Colubridae family.
Linear control of flow in High-Speed on/off valves based on state observers for position tracking of water hydraulic systems
Authors: Ma Aixiang , Yan Xihao , Jin Zihan , Zhou Yunlin , Wei Yaqiang , Zhao Sihai
Published: August 2024

Water hydraulic systems face challenges in precise flow control due to the low viscosity of water-based liquids. High-speed on/off valves offer a solution by providing discrete flow outputs for water-based liquids continuous flow control. This paper presents a novel approach to proportional flow control in these valves, focusing on estimating and controlling spool position using only current feedback. The proposed method integrates a robust controller with a high-gain extended state observer (HGESO). The HGESO estimates spool position and unmodeled disturbances based on coil current, deriving the system's output flow. The robust controller then adjusts the spool position to control the overall flow. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate the controller's ability to track desired flow rates under various conditions. This research contributes to water hydraulic systems by offering an effective method for position tracking control without direct position sensors. The study provides a valuable solution for improving the performance and precision of hydraulic systems in various applications. By addressing the challenges of water-based hydraulic systems and offering a practical approach to flow control, this research has significant implications for advancing the field of hydraulic control systems.
A Bayesian Approach for Parameterizing and Predicting Plasmid Conjugation Dynamics
Authors: Kumsuwan Sirinapa , Jaichuen Chanon , Jatura Chakachon , Subsoontorn Pakpoom
Published: August 2024

Population dynamic models that explain and predict the spread of conjugative plasmids are pivotal for understanding microbial evolution and engineering microbiomes. However, prediction uncertainty of these models has rarely been assessed. We adopt a Bayesian approach, employing Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC), to parameterize and model plasmid conjugation dynamics. This approach treats model parameters as random variables whose probability distributions informed by data on plasmid population dynamics. These distributions allow us to estimate confidence intervals of the model’s parameters and predictions. We validated this approach using synthetic population dynamic data with known parameter values and experimental population dynamic data of mini-RK2, a miniaturized counterpart of the well-characterized and widely used RK2 conjugation plasmids. Our methodology accurately estimated the parameters of synthetic data, and model predictions were robust across time scales and initial conditions. Incorporating long-term population dynamic data enhances the precision of parameter estimates related to plasmid loss and the accuracy of long-term population dynamic predictions. For experimental data, the model correctly explained and predicted most population dynamic trends, albeit with broader confidence intervals. Overall, our method allows for deeper investigation of plasmid population dynamics and could potentially be generalized to study population dynamics of other mobile genetic elements.
Species composition and feeding pattern of malaria vectors in indoor and non-indoor residual spraying districts of Lira and Kole, Northern Uganda
Authors: Mwesige Rashid , Byagamy John Paul , Opiro Robert , Angwech Harriet , Ocen Patrick Buchan , Ochaya Stephen
Published: August 2024

Background
Vector control interventions using long-lasting insecticidal nets and indoor residual spraying are common tools deployed for the control of malaria in Uganda. To evaluate the effectiveness of these control tools and understand the prevailing malaria vectors, a study was conducted to determine the species composition, indoor resting population density, and biting pattern of malaria vectors in Indoor Residual Spraying and non-Indoor Residual Spraying districts of Lira and Kole, Northern Uganda.
Methods
Both indoor and outdoor adult malaria vectors were collected from August to September 2022 using Human-Baited Catch and Pyrethrum Spray Catch methods. To identify the different sibling species of An. gambiae and An. funestus complexes, mosquitoes were identified morphologically and using Polymerase Chain Reaction.
Results
The non-Indoor Residual Spraying district of Kole had a relatively high density of vectors (67.5%) compared with the Indoor Residual Spraying district of Lira (32.5%). An. gambiae s.s. dominated the composition of the vectors (43.1%)) in the non-IRS district, followed by An. funestus (30.4%) and An. arabiensis (26.5%). In the IRS district, An. funestus was the predominant species (52.3%), followed by An. gambiae s.s. (34.1%) and An. arabiensis (13.61%). Although Kole district had a slightly higher Indoor Resting Density (IRD) than Lira district, there was no statistically significant difference between the IRD in the two districts. In IRS district, An. funestus and An. gambiae s.s. had an indoor biting peak of 3:00–4:00AM and outdoors from 21:00–1:00 AM.
Conclusion
There was no statistically significant difference in either the indoor or outdoor biting rates of all malaria vectors in the two districts. This indicates that the population could be protected while resting indoors, as the peaks observed during the night correspond to moments when the population is asleep, unlike the peak that occurs during the morning when people are awake and remain unprotected by Long Lasting Insecticides Nets. The high numbers of An. gambiae in the non-IRS district and An. funestus in the IRS district indicates a high malaria transmission potential and predicts the risk of a malaria upsurge within the study area. An. arabiensis was predominant in the unsprayed district compared to that in the sprayed district.
Assessment of the evolution of psychomotor skills in the robotic surgery simulation process
Authors: Silva Danilo Araújo , Szutan Luiz Arnaldo , Zandonai Alexandra Paola
Published: August 2024

Robotic surgery is a rapidly expanding field, given the wide variety of new robotic platforms emerging. Looking at the training of surgeons in robotic surgery is of extreme necessity and urgency, considering the ongoing technological advancements. In this research, the performance during the virtual reality simulation phase of training for robotic surgery was analyzed. It was observed that, in addition to the lack of consensus among societies regarding the required simulation hours, there is no guidance on the best curriculum to be adopted. From the data in this study, it can be inferred that the more advanced skills have fewer proficient individuals, meaning that fewer surgeons in training have reached proficiency in all skill exercises. Even with differences in the number of exercises performed proficiently between groups that underwent varying amounts of simulation time, there is no statistically significant difference in the proportion between them.
Pollen parent affects rutin content of seeds of buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum)
Authors: Otsuka Shiori , Hara Takashi , Ishiguro Koji , Matsushima Kenichi , Yasui Yasuo , Matsui Katsuhiro
Published: August 2024

Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) is a heterostylous self-incompatible crop that requires outcrossing for seed formation. Pollen parents influence the traits of seeds in many plants, but their influence in buckwheat is unknown. Here, we crossed self-incompatible (SI) and self-compatible (SC) lines with different rutin contents. The average rutin contents of SI leading cultivars were all 0.15–0.21 mg/g, and a SI high rutin content line that we had developed was 0.6 mg/g, although it has wide range SDs (0.12–0.41). On the other hand, the average rutin contents of SC lines were 0.01–0.06 mg/g, with stable SDs (0.02–0.03). In crosses between high- and low-rutin parents, the average rutin content of F1 seeds was significantly lower than that of the high-rutin parent and higher than that of the low-rutin parent, indicating that the pollen parent influences the rutin content in seeds of buckwheat. RNA-seq analysis confirmed that alleles of several genes encoding enzymes involved in rutin synthesis derived from pollen parents were expressed during seed formation.
Increased drying threatens alpine pond biodiversity more than temperature increase in a changing climate
Authors: Lamouille-Hébert Marie , Arthaud Florent , Besnard Aurélien , Logez Maxime , Datry Thibault
Published: August 2024

Climate change is one of the main drivers of species erosion. Rapidly changing climate in the form of warming, drying, and habitat isolation causes freshwater species to change their spatial extent, as most species have little capacity for in situresponses. However, the relative contribution of these three effects to freshwater species’ changing spatial distributions is largely debated. To shed light on this debate, we explored temperature, hydroperiod, and habitat connectivity effects on alpine pond species occupancy probabilities in the Northern French Alps. We studied alpine ponds as ideal test systems because they face climate change effects more rapidly, and in more concentrated areas, than any other freshwater ecosystem. We used multi-species occupancy models with three biological groups (amphibians, macrophytes and Odonata) to examine contrasted responses to climate change. Contrary to expectations, temperature was not the main driver of species occupancy probabilities. Instead, hydroperiod and connectivity were stronger predictors of species occupancy probabilities. Furthermore, temperature increase had the same effect on occupancy probabilities of generalist and cold-specialist species. Nonetheless, temperature disproportionately affected a greater number of specialist species compared to generalists. We conclude that climate change mitigation will primarily benefit a greater number of specialist species than generalists. Finally, we suggest that enhancing our understanding of freshwater hydroperiods will improve our predictions of climate change effects on freshwater species distributions.
Factors Shaping Delivery Location Preferences for Somali Women at Childbearing Age
Authors: Ismail Abdikani A. , Salih Omran , Muse Abdisalam Hassan
Published: August 2024

Background
Maternal mortality remains a significant public health issue in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Somalia. Despite global efforts, high maternal mortality rates persist due to limited access to skilled birth attendants and healthcare facilities. This study examines maternal healthcare accessibility in Somalia, focusing on childbirth locations among women of childbearing age, using data from the Somali Health and Demographic Survey 2020.
Methods
This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the SHDS 2020, involving 16,162 women aged 15–49. Univariate, bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were conducted using STATA software to identify sociodemographic factors associated with facility-based delivery.
Results
The prevalence of facility-based delivery was 19.95%. Key factors significantly associated with facility-based delivery included education level, household wealth, husband's employment, and household size. Women with primary education (aOR = 3.04, 95%CI = 2.74–3.37, p < 0.001), secondary education (aOR = 6.79, 95%CI = 5.62–8.20,p < 0.001), and higher education (aOR = 16.57, 95%CI = 11.68–23.54,p < 0.001) were more likely to deliver at health facilities. Larger households (11 + members) also increased the likelihood (aOR = 1.44, 95%CI = 1.33–1.56,p < 0.001). However, increasing age reduced the odds of facility-based delivery: ages 25–34 (aOR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.79–0.95,p = 0.003), 35–44 (aOR = 0.81, 95%CI = 0.72–0.91, p < 0.001), and 45+ (aOR = 0.48, 95%CI = 0.33–0.70,p < 0.001). Additionally, women who did not watch television were less likely to deliver at a health facility (aOR = 0.21, 95%CI = 0.19–0.23,p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Education, household wealth, husband's employment, and household size significantly influence facility-based delivery among Somali women. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve access to maternal healthcare services, especially for economically disadvantaged. Enhanced government funding for free maternal and newborn healthcare and local community involvement are crucial to reducing maternal and neonatal mortality and achieving sustainable development goals in Somalia.
Enhancement of non-oleaginous green microalgae Ulothrix for bio-fixing CO 2 and producing biofuels by ARTP mutagenesis
Authors: Yin Mingshan , An Yuliang , Qi Feng , Mu Ruimin , Ma Guixia , Chen Feiyong
Published: August 2024

Background
Oleaginous green microalgae are often mentioned in algae-based biodiesel industry, but most of them belong to specific gena(Chlorella, Scenedesmus, Botryococcus and Desmodesmus). Thus, the microalgal germplasm resources for biodiesel production are limited. Mutagenesis is regarded as an important technology for expanding germplasm resources. The main purpose of this study is to screen microalgae strains with high carbon dioxide tolerance and high lipid content from mutants derived from indigenous non-oleaginous green microalgae species- Ulothrix SDJZ-17.
Results
Two mutants with high CO2 tolerance and high lipid content genetic stability were obtained from the mutants by high-throughput screening, named Ulothrix SDJZ-17-A20 and Ulothrix SDJZ-17-A23. In order to evaluate the potential of CO2 fixation and biofuel production, A20 and A23 were cultured under air and 15% CO2 (v/v) conditions, and their wild-type strains (WT) were used as controls. Under the condition of high CO2 concentration, the growth performance and lipid production capacity of mutant strains A20 and A23 were not only significantly better than those of wild strains, but also better than those of their own cultured under air conditions. Among them, A23 obtained the highest LCE (14.79%), Fv/Fm (71.04%) and biomass productivity (81.26 mg L− 1d− 1), while A20 obtained the highest lipid content (22.45% ). Both mutants can be used as candidate strains for CO2 fixation and biofuel production.
Conclusion
By ARTP mutagenesis with high-throughput screening, the mutants with higher CO2 tolerance, photosynthetic efficiency and lipid productivity can be obtained, even if they are derived from non-oleaginous microalgae, which is of great significance for enriching the energy microalgae germplasm bank, alleviating the global warming and energy crisis.