bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study Outlines Challenges of Repurposing Oil and Gas Wells for Geothermal Applications
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: March 2024

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 215751, “Challenges for Repurposing Oil and Gas Wells for Geothermal Applications,” by Livio Santos, SPE, and Arash Dahi Taleghani, SPE, The Pennsylvania State University. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

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This work provides insights into the technical and economic viability of repurposing oil and gas wells for geothermal energy production for direct heating. The potential benefits—especially for areas that are highly dependent on fossil fuels for heating—and challenges of this approach are assessed, while technical, market, and policy barriers for future development are identified. Repurposing oil and gas wells for geothermal energy requires a multidisciplinary approach that involves expertise in geology, engineering, and regulatory affairs.

Introduction

Repurposing abandoned wells for power generation in geothermal energy projects can present challenges because of the low temperatures associated with these wells. The low temperature gradients and thermal energy available in such wells have been found to limit overall power-generation potential. The same low-temperature geothermal resources can still be used effectively, however, for community heating applications. Community heating systems have lower temperature requirements compared with those necessary for power generation and are compatible with available heat from low-temperature geothermal sources.

In particular, closed-loop geothermal systems, specifically designed for community heating, offer several advantageous features. The closed-loop design ensures that the fluid remains contained within the system. These systems are environmentally compatible because they do not extract or discharge water from natural sources. Additionally, with better control over the working fluid and heat-exchange process, closed-loop systems deliver optimized system performance, energy efficiency, and cost savings. They also require less maintenance and feature lower operational risks because of the closed circuit. Closed-loop systems offer fluid-selection flexibility and streamlined regulatory compliance.

Not all abandoned wells are suitable for repurposing, however. Thorough feasibility assessments and well-integrity evaluations are necessary to ensure that the abandoned well is structurally sound, has the appropriate depth and geological characteristics, and can extract geothermal heat effectively. The condition of the well casing, cementing, and any potential wellbore damage also must be evaluated. An economic analysis is performed to assess the financial viability and cost-effectiveness of the geothermal community heating system. Finally, an environmental impact assessment evaluates the environmental consequences of the geothermal community heating system.
On Rough I–αβ–Statistical Convergence of Order γ in Intuitionistic Fuzzy Normed Spaces
Authors: Khan Vakeel A. , Rahaman SK Ashadul , Hazarika Bipan
Published: February 2024

The concept of “αβ–statistical convergence of order γ” was developed by Aktug˘lu [1]. In this research article, we introduced the notion of “rough I–αβ–statistical convergence order γ” in the setting of intuitionistic fuzzy normed spaces. We find that the limit of this novel convergence is a set rather than a unique point. The study proves that the limit set is convex and closed with respect to the intuitionistic fuzzy norm. Moreover, we propose the notion of Ir– stγαβ –cluster points and establish the connections between the set of such cluster points and limit set of the above–mentioned convergence.
Non trivial soft first fundamental group
Authors: Nazmul Sk , Biswas Golam
Published: February 2024

In this article, we have aimed to construct a non-trivial fundamental group of soft homotopy classes and find out its applications. To achieve this, firstly we have defined soft exponential mappings, a soft lift of a soft continuous mapping, and studied their important behaviors. Moreover, path lifting property, homotopy lifting property, etc., and their relationship in soft set setting are discussed. Finally, we have constructed the fundamental group of soft homotopy classes of unit circle $\mathbb{S}^1.$

2010 Mathematics Subject Classification: 14H30, 14H99, 20F34.
Facilitators and barriers in Academic-Practice Partnerships (APPs) between Approved Educational Institutions (AEIs) and Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs) during pre-registration nursing students’ placements: A scoping review protocol.
Authors: Chivaura Ashley , Wilson Iseult , Rainey Deborah , Wong Amy
Published: March 2024

Background
Effective Academic-Practice Partnerships (APPs) between Approved Educational Institutions (AEIs) and practice learning partners are essential for enhancing the integration of the theoretical and practical aspects of nursing education. Recent literature regarding nursing student placements in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) highlights the significance of these partnerships, and a need to explore the dynamic partnerships between AEIs and RACFs to better understand their role in improving student experiences and learning outcomes. Despite the recognition of the significance of understanding these APPs, this remains a significant gap in the existing literature.
Methods:
We will conduct a scoping review to identify facilitators and barriers to maintaining productive APPs between AEI and RACFs during pre-registration nursing student placements. Our research will involve an electronic literature search within: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and ERIC. Two independent reviewers will screen eligible papers, and a third reviewer will resolve any conflicts based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eligible studies must have been published after 1990, and they should specifically address collaborative efforts between AEIs and RACFs in the context of pre-registration nursing student placements in RACFs.
Discussion:
This scoping review addresses a gap in the literature by exploring the factors that influence APPs in the context of RACF placements. The findings from this review have the potential to guide improvements in pre-registration nursing education by supporting collaborative relationships between AEI and RACFs to enrich how nursing students experience their RACF placements. The review will also empower both clinical and academic educators by giving them a good understanding of what facilitates and hinders collaboration which will empower them to nurture more effective collaborations which would improve their shared capacity to support students. Strengthening the partnerships between AEIs and RACFs can foster a shared vision and enhance the quality of pre-registration nursing education, which can improve the standard of care for RACF residents.
Black Soldier Fly Larvae Mitigate Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Domestic Biodegradable Waste through Carbon-Nitrogen Redistribution and Microbial Reconstruction
Authors: Xiang FangMing , Han LuYing , Jiang ShuoYun , Xu Xinhua , Zhang Zhijian
Published: March 2024

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) have been proven to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the treatment of organic waste (e.g., domestic biodegradable waste, DBW). However, the microbial mechanisms involved have not been fully understood. The current study mainly examined the dynamic changes of carbon and nitrogen, greenhouse gas emissions, the succession of microbial community structure, and changes in gene abundance in DBW under BSFL treatment (LT) and non-aeration composting (NC). We found that of the organic waste supplied, 29.9% carbon and 55.0% nitrogen were stored in BSFL. For every 1kg of dry matter of organic waste consumed, 655 g CO2, 0.80 mg CH4, and 2.26 mg N2O were emitted from LT, significantly lower than those from NC. 16S rRNA gene sequencing results showed that the BSFL increased the relative abundance of Methanophaga, Marinobacter, and Campylobacter during the bioprocess, enhancing the consumption of CH4 and N2O. The metagenomic data showed that the BSFL reduced the ratio of (nirK + nirS + nor)/nosZ in the residues, thereby reducing the emission of N2O. In addition, it increased the functional gene abundance of nirA, nirB, nirD, and nrfA, making nitrite more inclined to be reduced to ammonia. The BSFL mitigated greenhouse gas emissions by redistributing carbon and nitrogen and remodeling the community and function of microbiomes during the DBW bioconversion.
Alpha-boswellic acid accelerates acute wound healing via NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: Dong Fang , Zheng Lijuan , Zhang Xuanfen
Published: March 2024

Boswellic acids (BAs) showed promising effects in cancer treatment, immune response regulation, and anti-inflammatory therapy. We aimed to assess the roles of alpha-BA (α-BA) in treating acute wound healing. ELISA assay results indicated that α-BA treatment reduced the production of inflammatory cytokines and increased the protein levels of epidermal growth factor (EGF). Cell function experiments demonstrated that α-BA suppressed the proliferation and migration ability of human hypertrophic scar fibroblasts (HSFBs), thereby favoring wound healing. Additionally, α-BA exerted a significantimpact on cell cycle progression. Mechanistically, the protein levels of key genes in nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB) signaling pathway, including cyclin D1, p65, IκBα, and p-IκBα, were downregulated by α-BA. Animal models further indicated that wound healing was notably accelerated in the α-BA group compared to the control group (P < 0.01). These findings suggest the potential of α-BA for development as a new agent for treating acute wound healing.
Case study on sprite and lightning activities associated with the cell life cycle in a mesoscale convective system
Authors: Hou Hsun-Ya , kuo chengling , Hsu Rue-Ron , Chang Wei-Yu , Lee Lou-Chuang
Published: February 2024

A line of mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) accompanied by hails with strong updraft may produces favorable weather conditions for high flash rates and sprite occurrences. On 18–20 May, 2018, we observed a total of 287 transient luminous events (TLEs) in the Taiwan campaign. After analyzing flashes from Earth Networks Total Lightning Network (ENTLN), the observation region has a maximum CG flash rate 115.1 min-1 (95.1 min-1 for –CGs and 20.0 min-1 for + CG) within a single cell of MCSs on May 20 within a radius 55 km. We investigated the TLEs activity associated with the multi-cells in the MCS, and found that sudden increases of TLEs are associated with the merging stage of new and old cells and the dissipating stage of cell. The flashes associated with TLEs with halo emissions have a tendency of large peak current. The TLEs with their parent flashes and extremely high peak currents (200, 244, 261, 267, 311, 357 kA) were shown, and most of events have common optical features of sprite halos and clusters of sprites structures.
Study of Fly Ash-slag-based Geopolymer Mortar Exposed to High Temperature
Authors: 王 梦迪 , Zhang zhengyang , Niu zhuojie , Xu ping , Li xiao
Published: March 2024

Purpose: To investigate the effectof the admixtures of graphene oxide (GO) and red mud (RM) on the properties of fly ash-slag-based geopolymer mortar respectively and explore the causes of changes in the strength of geopolymers after exposure to high temperature.
Methods: The orthogonal method was utilized to derive the optimum mix ratios of geopolymer mortar without the addition of GO or RM. GO at 0.05% or RM at 40% was added to the mixing ratios to study their effects on the mechanical properties of the geopolymer mortar at temperatures ranging from 25 to 900 ℃, respectively.
Results: The addition of GO or RM can reduce the strength loss of geopolymer after exposure to high temperature. Conclusion: (1) The addition of GO or RM can reduce the degree of cracking of geopolymer mortar after exposure to high temperature to some extent. (1) The final strength of the geopolymer is a combination of the degree of reaction and high temperature damage. (3) The degree of sintering reaction inside the mortar specimens was more fully developed and a higher concentration of feldspar-like material was produced compared to that at the edges, which caused the interior to be grayish-black.
Kidney Volume-to-Birth Weight Ratio as a Surrogate Indicator for the Number of Nephrons in Extremely Low Birth Weight Preterm Infants
Authors: Villani Gabriele , Zaza Pierluigi , Lamparelli Raffaella , Maffei Gianfranco
Published: February 2024

In humans, nephrogenesis is completed 4–6 weeks after birth, resulting in a highly variable total number of nephrons, ranging from 200,000 to over 2 million. Premature birth disrupts the development and maturation of the kidneys, leading to a reduction in the final number of nephrons. Due to significant genetic variability in the number of nephrons among individuals, it is crucial to identify premature infants with fewer nephrons at birth as early as possible. These infants are more susceptible to developing renal failure with advancing age compared to those with a higher nephron endowment. Bedside ultrasound, an effective and non-invasive tool, is practical for identifying newborns with a lower nephron count. However, renal volume alone cannot reliably indicate the number of nephrons due to substantial variability at birth, influenced by gestational age when nephron maturation is incomplete. This variability in kidney volumes persists as newborns grow. In this observational study, we demonstrate that the ratio between renal volume and birth weight can serve as a valid indicator of nephron count in premature newborns with a birth weight less than 1000 grams. This finding could represent the basis for defining appropriate surveillance protocols and developing targeted therapeutic approaches.
Integrated analysis of transcriptomics and defense-related phytohormones to discover hub genes conferring maize Gibberella ear rot caused by Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Yuan Guangsheng , Shi Jiahao , Zeng Cheng , Shi Haoya , Yang Yong , Zhang Chuntian , Ma Tieli , Wu Mengyang , Jia Zheyi , Du Juan , Zou Chaoying , Ma Langlang , Pan Guangtang , Shen Yaou
Published: March 2024

Background
Gibberella ear rot (GER) is one of the most devastating diseases in maize growing areas, which directly reduces grain yield and quality. To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the host defense responses against pathogen infection, we analyzed the transcriptomics and defense-related phytohormones of ‘Nov-82’ (resistant inbred line) and ‘H10’ (susceptible inbred line) inoculated with Fusarium graminearum across six time points.
Results
By transcriptome analysis, 4,417 and 4,313 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the Nov-82 and H10, respectively, and 647 genes were common DEGs among the two lines. These DEGs were remarkably enriched in the pathways related to the defense response pathways. In addition, defense-related phytohormones analysis showed that the jasmonates (JAs) and salicylates (SAs) were greatly induced after the pathogen infection, in which case the levels of JAs were more accumulation in H10 compared with Nov-82, whereas an opposite pattern for the SA between the both lines. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed five vital modules based on closely correlated between the DEGs and phytohormones. A total of 12 hub genes were obtained associated with plant defense processes through the integrated analysis of the DEGs and phytohormones, indicating that these genes might play a key role in GER disease.
Conclusions
Overall, this study reveals the transcriptional and phytohormonal responses under the pathogen infection, providing the theoretical basis for maize GER defense mechanisms, in addition to the identified hub genes that can be further investigated for enhancing GER resistance in maize.
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) in Thailand: Seroprevalence study in humans and molecular detection in ticks
Authors: Villarroel Paola Mariela Saba , Chaiphongpachara Tanawat , Nurtop Elif , Laojun Sedthapong , Pangpoo-nga Tassanee , Songhong Thanaphon , Supungul Dolruethai , Baronti Cécile , Thirion Laurence , Leaungwutiwong Pornsawan , de Lamballerie Xavier , Missé Dorothée , Wichit Sineewanlaya
Published: February 2024

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is an emerging tick-borne virus with a mortality rate of up to 30%. First identified in China in 2009, it was later reported in other Asian countries, including Thailand in 2020. SFTSV has been detected in several tick species, including Rhipicephalus sanguineus, known for infesting dogs. We conducted a seroprevalence study of SFTSV in Bangkok and Nong Khai, Thailand, by analyzing 1162 human samples collected between 2019 and 2023. The testing method relied on IgG detection using ELISA and confirmed though a virus seroneutralization test. The results indicated that out of the participants, 12 (1.1%) tested positive for anti-SFTSV IgG antibodies; however, none exhibited positive results in the seroneutralization assay. Additionally, molecular detection of SFTSV, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), Coxiella spp., Bartonella spp., and Rickettsiaspp. was performed on 433 Rh. sanguineus ticks collected from 49 dogs in 2023 in Chachoengsao Province, Thailand. No evidence of these pathogens was found in ticks. These findings highlight the importance of exploring viral cross-reactivity. Furthermore, it is important to conduct additional studies to isolate SFTSV from animals and ticks in order to identify the potential transmission routes contributing to human and animal infections in Thailand.
Crosstalk between Atrial Cardiomyocytes and Epicardial Adipose Tissue in Atrial Fibrillation: Insights from Machine Learning Methods and Rat Atrial Fibrillation Model
Authors: Zhang QiJun , Miao HaoZhen , Song BingJie , Tao Lei , Wang Jie , Bao YingChun
Published: February 2024

Objective: Investigating the Role of Epicardial Adipose Tissue as a Catalyst for Reversal and Reconstruction of Atrial Myocardial Cells in the Context of Dialogue with Atrial Myocardial Cells. Implications for Breakthroughs in Preventing Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation Progression.
Methods: We obtained three datasets (GSE41177, GSE31821, and GSE135455) associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, which were subsequently merged for comprehensive analysis. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using the "limma" package in the R software. Candidate AF genes were selected through machine learning techniques, including the LASSO regression algorithm and SVM-RFE algorithm. The diagnostic efficacy of these genes was evaluated using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves. Additionally, CIBERSORT was employed to investigate the proportions of infiltrating immune cells in each sample, while the Pearson method was applied to examine the correlation between genes and immune cells. Further validation of the DEGs were performed by PCR in atrial fibrillation rats.
Results: A total of 310 Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) were identified in atrial cardiomyocytes with epicardial adipose tissue. Using the LASSO regression and SVM-RFE algorithms, ID1, SCN4A, COL4A5, COLEC11, and SNAI2 were pinpointed as key genes associated with Atrial Fibrillation (AF). In both the training and validation datasets, these genes exhibited robust effectiveness. The immune infiltration analysis revealed that, in comparison to sinus rhythm (SR), atrial samples from patients with AF exhibited higher levels of neutrophils, while T cells follicular helper were relatively lower. Correlation analysis highlighted significant associations between ID1, SCN4A, COL4A5, COLEC11, SNAI2, and infiltrating immune cells. The outcomes of the RT- qPCR analysis in our investigation were consistent with the findings of bioinformatics analysis.
Conclusions: In summary, this study posits that ID1, SCN4A, COL4A5, COLEC11, and SNAI2 emerge as pivotal genes in Atrial Fibrillation (AF), exhibiting correlation with infiltrating immune cells. Furthermore, it underscores the indispensable roles played by infiltrating immune cells in the context of AF.
Correlation analysis of fatty acid metabolism-related genes and the prognosis of ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhou Jie , Zhou Jinhua , Meng Mei , Sun Yanling
Published: February 2024

Background
Increasing evidence suggests that abnormal fatty acid metabolism (FAM) is a switch triggering tumor progression. The aim of this study was to explore the prognostic value of FAM-related genes (FAMRGs) in serous ovarian cancer (SOC) by bioinformatics analysis and to develop a novel FAM-related prognostic signature.
Methods
Clinicopathological characteristics and FAMRGs were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas database and the Molecular Signatures Database. The limma R package and Cox regression were used to determine the FAM-related signature. The Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox regression were used to evaluate the prognostic value of the risk score, after which gene set variation analysis was performed to explore the biological functions. The immune cell infiltration level was analyzed. The potential response to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy was evaluated by the tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion algorithm. Finally, RT-PCR analysis was performed to measure the expression levels of 9 prognostic genes.
Results
Nine FAMRGs that were significantly associated with SOC prognosis were screened out, and a robust risk scoring model was constructed. This risk score was also an independent prognostic factor for patients with SOC. Patients with high-risk scores were characterized by poor clinical outcomes, lower levels of immune cell infiltration, and elevated TIDE scores. In addition, patients with low-risk scores may be better candidates for ICI therapy.
Conclusions
Our data suggest that the abnormal expression of 9 FAM-related genes is closely related to the progression of SOC. Moreover, a novel FAM-related prognostic signature may contribute to immunotherapy consultation for SOC.
HLA-restricted Epitopes Prediction of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yizeng , Jia Lanning , He Long , Zhao Ke , Li Fuxin , Liu Yuanchao , Wang Xiaoning , He Xianghui
Published: February 2024

Background
The development of next-generation sequencing(NGS) technology such as transcriptome sequencing(RNA-seq) and the development of computer science have made the research on gene mutation or gene fusion that can produce new antigens more and more efficient and accurate. To identify immunogenic HLA-restricted epitopes of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), we analyzed differential expression genes (DEGs) obtained by transcriptome sequencing.
Methods
The paired tumor samples and peritumoral thyroid tissue samples from 10 PTC patients were obtained for RNA extraction, library construction, and RNA-seq. DEGs were analyzed to identify genetic variants and fusion genes. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) I genotype was determined by PCR-seqence specific primers(SSP) test and the analysis of RNA-seq data by HLAprofiler. The single nucleotide variations (SNVs), insertion/deletion mutations (INDELs) and fusion genes results from RNA-seq were coupled with HLA I allele to predict the possible antigen epitopes using the netMHCpan of pVACtools software.
Results
For 10 pair samples performing RNA-seq, as the differential expression criterion was |log2FoldChange|≥1 and Padj ≤ 0.05, there were 3740 DEGs between tumor samples and peritumoral thyroid tissue samples totally. Among them, compared to peritumoral thyroid tissue samples, 1464 genes were up-regulated and 2276 genes were down-regulated in tumor samples. Epitopes LAHPGFFYF (P4HA1), KTYERLFYM (PHLDB3), and LLYSNGYNY (IGKV2(D)-28) were predicted and filtered by genetic variation data coupled with HLA I allele. Epitopes KSAELSPFL (KSR1-LGALS9) and RASCQLTVL (FARSA-SYCE2) were predicted and filtered by fusion genes data.
Conclusions
RNA-seq results indicated that genetic alteration driving PTC progression also results in immunogenic HLA-restricted epitopes, which could be affect the immunogenicity of PTC and provide a new target for PTC treatment.
Gendered and Geographical Differential Effects of Airborne Fine Particulate Matter on Noncommunicable Diseases: Evidence from the Global Atmospheric Emissions and WHO SAGE Data
Authors: Boateng Godfred O. , Dusing Gabriel J. , Agbe Eyram , Lartey Stella T. , Quansah Reginald , Okoye Dozie
Published: February 2024

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus, disproportionately affect socially disadvantaged populations in LMICs. Airborne fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been shown to contribute to NCD risk, yet few studies have examined this effect and its variations by gender and geography in sub-Saharan Africa. We linked the Ghana data of the World Health Organization’s Study on Global AGEing and Adult Health to satellite-recorded PM2.5 concentrations to examine the gendered and geographical relationship between exposure to atmospheric PM2.5 and NCDs among older adults. Increasing atmospheric PM2.5 exposure was associated with higher NCD risk with significant gendered and geographical differences. A unit increase in atmospheric PM2.5 increased the relative risk ratios (RRRs) of women by 1.12 (95%CI:1.03-1.22), 1.21 (95%CI:1.11-1.32), and 1.48 (95%CI:1.20-1.81) for hypertension Stages 1, 2, and crisis respectively. The RRRs of men increased by 1.20 (95%CI:1.11-1.29) for Stage 2 hypertension. The RRRs of urban residents increased by 1.21 for stage 2 hypertension, and 1.48 for a crisis state. The effects of atmospheric PM2.5 appear particularly pronounced in women and urban residents relative to their comparative groups. These findings shed light on NCD risk and provide results to inform interventions for aging populations and environmental protection in sub-Saharan Africa.
Palladium-catalyzed C(sp3)-C(sp2) coupling: Synthesis of C(3)-arylphthalides
Authors: H SURYA PRAKASH RAO , Prabhakaran J.
Published: February 2024

We have achieved an efficient synthesis of C(3)-arylphthalides by coupling C(3)-bromophthalides and arylboronic acids under palladium catalysis. The C(sp3)-C(sp2) coupling worked well in the presence of water to provide products in a high yield.
Darcy–Forchheimer fluid flow through a movable thin needle with motile gyrotactic microorganisms and thermal radiation
Authors: Jawad Muhammad , Fu Zhuojia , Khan Waris
Published: March 2024

Bioconvection Darcy–Forchheimer fluid flow of the boundary layer around a tiny needle containing motile gyrotactic microorganisms with thermal radiation has been investigated in this article. The art of the present investigation is a variable thermal conductivity and viscosity. The effects of Brownian motion and thermophoresis are studied by using Buongiorno model. The study is examined under the effects of viscous dissipation and Joule heating. To simplify the governing equations, the boundary layer assumptions in the existence of frictional heating have been employed. Based on this, the equations of boundary layer are described in dimensionless forms using similarity variables that are axisymmetric to achieve a self-similar solution. HAM is employed to solve nonlinear ODEs equations. The impacts of dissimilar parameters on velocity, temperature, concentration and motile density microorganisms are represented by graphical and tables discussion. The results concluded that the flow dramatically differs with thermal conductivity and constant viscosity whereas it is more realistic with thermal conductivity and variable viscosity. The fluid temperature is also strongly connected to the shrinkage of the needle. There are many applications for the fluid flow through a needle, including fuel injection systems, fluid sampling, scientific research, medical injections, electrospinning, laboratory applications, and hydraulic systems.
Realization of 2D Multiferroic with Strong Magnetoelectric Coupling by Intercalation: A First-principles High-throughput Prediction
Authors: Jiang Xue , Zhao Ying , Zhao Jijun , Wang Yanxia , Yang Yue
Published: March 2024

The discovery of novel two-dimensional (2D) multiferroic materials is attractive due to their potential for the realization of information storage and logic devices. Although many approaches have been explored to simultaneously introduce ferromagnetic (FM) and ferroelectric (FE) orders into a 2D material, the resulting systems are often plagued by weak magnetoelectric (ME) coupling or limited room-temperature stability. Here, we present a superlattice strategy to construct non-centrosymmetric AM2X4 multiferroic monolayers, i.e., intercalating transition metal ions (A) into the tetragonal-like vacancies of transition metal dichalcogenide bilayers (MX2). Starting from 960 intercalated AM2X4 compounds, our high-throughput calculations have identified 21 multiferroics with robust magnetic order, large FE polarization, low transition barrier, high FE/ FM transition temperature, and strong ME coupling. According to the origin of magnetism, we have classified them into twelve type-a, seven type-b, and two type-c multiferroics, which also exhibit different ME coupling behavior. During the switching of polarization, the reversal of skyrmions chirality, the transition of magnetic ground state from FM to antiferromagnetic, and the changes in spin polarized electron spatial distribution were observed in type-a, type-b, and type-c 2D multiferroic materials, respectively. These results substantially expand the family of 2D ferroic materials and pave an avenue for designing and implementing nonvolatile logic and memory devices.
Definition and key concepts of high performing health systems: a scoping review
Authors: Perrier Laure , Perreira Tyrone Anthonio , Cho Veronica , Sodhi Sundeep , Karsan Ali , Hassan Hazim , Prokopy Melissa , Dale Anthony , Jonker Anthony , Brown Adalsteinn , Shea Christine
Published: February 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic identified the need to transform health systems globally. The meaning of a high performing health system is often shaped by specific priorities that may not be widely shared. The first step is to determine how high performing is defined in relation to a health system. The objective of this study is to chart the literature on the definitions and key concepts of high performing health care systems.
Methods: A scoping review was conducted by searching the published and unpublished literature. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts, then full-text articles. Data abstraction was performed independently by two investigators. Data were summarized descriptively by allocating concepts or characteristics into categories and reporting frequencies.
Results: A total of 3441 citations and 485 full-text articles were screened independently by two reviewers, and we included 31 primary articles and 38 companion documents in the review. Three independent definitions for a high performance health system were identified. Eighteen research studies reported outcomes on the elements of a high performing health system (56%), system evaluation (33%), and tool development or validation (11%). Knowledge gaps identified were the lack of a common definition, a lack of common indicators, strategies for moving evidence into policy and practice, and difficulties with comparisons across health systems.
Conclusions: We found limited definitions and a lack of empirical evidence on our topic. There is an opportunity for primary research in the area of health systems and high performance.
Scoping review registration: https://osf.io/hdyrq
Comparing Risk of Post Infection Erectile Dysfunction Following SARS Coronavirus 2 Stratified by Acute and Long COVID, Hospitalization Status, and Vasopressor Administration
Authors: Grutman Aurora , Gilliam Kelli , Maremanda Ankith , Able Corey , Choi Una , Alshak Mark , Kohn Taylor
Published: February 2024

No study has yet assessed the risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED) after a diagnosis of long COVID-19, especially when compared to those diagnosed with only acute COVID or cases in which more severe treatment is required. To assess these risks, we queried the TriNetX COVID-19 Research Network from December 1st 2020 through June 2023. Men aged ≥ 18 diagnosed with long COVID-19 were compared to those diagnosed with acute COVID-19 and analyses were performed to compare men who were/were not hospitalized within 1 month of acute COVID diagnosis and men who did/did not need vasopressors. Cohorts were propensity score matched and compared for differences in new ED diagnosis and/or prescription of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5i). After propensity score matching, the long and acute COVID cohorts included 2839 men with an average age of 54.5±16.7 years and 55.1±17.1 respectively. Men with long COVID-19 were more likely to develop ED or be prescribed PDE5i (3.63%) when compared to men with only acute COVID-19 infections (2.61%) [RR 1.39; 95% CI 1.04, 1.87]. There was no statistically significant risk of developing ED or being prescribed PDE5i for individuals who received vasopressors [RR 0.922; 95% CI 0.774,1.098] or were hospitalized [RR 0.933; 95% CI 0.824,1.056].
Connectivity modelling identifies sources and sinks of coral recruitment within reef clusters
Authors: Ani Chinenye J. , Haller-Bull Vanessa , Gilmour James , Robson Barbara J.
Published: March 2024

Connectivity aids the recovery of populations following disturbances, such as coral bleaching and tropical cyclones. Coral larval connectivity is a function of physical connectivity and larval behaviour. In this study, we used OceanParcels, a particle tracking simulator, with 2D and 3D velocity outputs from a high resolution hydrodynamic-biogeochemical marine model (RECOM) to simulate the dispersal and settlement of larvae from broadcast spawning Acropora corals in the Moore Reef cluster, northern Great Barrier Reef, following the annual spawning events in 2015, 2016 and 2017. 3D velocity simulations showed 19.40-68.80% more links and sinks than those of 2D simulations. Although the patterns of connectivity among sites vary over days and years, coral larvae consistently dispersed from east to west in the cluster domain, with some sites consistently acting as sources or sinks for local larval recruitment. Results can inform coral reef intervention plans through climate change, such as the design of marine protected areas and the deployment of proposed interventions within reef clusters. For example, the wider benefits of interventions (e.g., deployment of heat adapted corals) may be optimised when deployed at locations that are a source of larvae to others within comparable habitats across the reef cluster.
Genomic characterization of multi drug resistant ESBL-producing Escherichia coli isolates from patients and patient environments in a teaching hospital in Ghana
Authors: Yeboah Esther Eyram Asare , Agyepong Nicholas , Mbanga Joshua , Amoako Daniel Gyamfi , Abia Akebe Luther King , Owusu-Ofori Alexander , Essack Sabiha Yusuf
Published: February 2024

Background: ESBL-producing Escherichia coli pose a growing health risk in community and healthcare settings. We investigated the resistome, virulome, mobilome, and genetic relatedness of multidrug-resistant (MDR) E. coli isolates from patients and their environment in a Ghanaian teaching hospital.
Twenty-three MDR ESBL-producing or carbapenem resistant E. coli isolates from a collection of MDR GNB from patients and environments were selected for genomic analyses. Whole genome sequencing and bioinformatics tools were used to analyze genomic characteristics and phylogeny.
Results: ESBL E. coli rectal carriage prevalence and acquisition incidence among patients were 13.65% and 11.32% respectively. blaTEM-1B (10 isolates) and blaCTX-M-15 (12 isolates) were commonly associated with IncFIB plasmid replicons and co-occurred with aminoglycoside, macrolide, and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim resistance. Insertion sequences, transposons, and class I integrons were found with blaCTX-M-15. Carriage and environmental isolates carried multiple virulence genes, with terC being the most prevalent in 21 isolates. Seventeen sequence types (STs) were identified, including two novel STs (ST13846). Phylogenetic analysis grouped the isolates into four main clusters, with one outlier. High genetic relatedness was observed between two carriage isolates of ST940 and between a carriage isolate and an environmental isolate of ST648. Isolates with different STs, collected at different times and locations, also showed genetic similarities.
Conclusion: We identified ESBL-producing E. coli with diverse genomic characteristics circulating in different directorates of the hospital. Clonal relatedness was observed among isolates from patients and the environment, as well as between different patients, suggesting transmission within and between sources.
Elevated total serum IgM predicts the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies in dysautonomia patients
Authors: Schofield Jill R , MA Jill Brook , Calaprice-Whitty Denise
Published: March 2024

Objective: Dysautonomia is an abnormal clinical state with multiple etiologies, including autoimmunity. Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are among the autoantibodies that have been associated with autonomic dysfunction. We have observed that an elevated total serum IgM appears to be associated with the presence of aPL in dysautonomia patients.
Methods: This is a retrospective study analyzing the clinical characteristics of 45 consecutive patients with cardiac autonomic dysfunction and a persistently elevated total serum IgM.
Results: 93% of patients were female with a mean age of 32.7 years. Most patients had severely disabling disease, with a mean Karnofsky-like functional ability score of 42% (normal 100%). 93% of patients tested persistently positive for one or more aPL and all patients tested persistently positive for aPL and/or Sjogren’s antibodies. One third of patients experienced one or more thrombotic events and 58% of patients attempting pregnancy experienced pregnancy morbidity. Lastly, 78% of aPL-positive patients treated with antithrombotic therapy experienced 50 to 100% improvement in one or more symptoms (e.g., migraine, cognitive dysfunction) recognized to be responsive to antithrombotic therapy in a subset of aPL-positive patients and 73% of patients treated with and tolerating immune modulatory therapy experienced a positive response.
Conclusions: We propose total serum IgM as a reliable and inexpensive test that can be used to identify dysautonomia patients at risk for persistent aPL-positivity. These patients are important to identify as they have a significant risk for thrombosis and pregnancy morbidity and often experience significant symptomatic improvement with antithrombotic therapy and/or immune modulatory therapy.
The Impact of Blood Glucose and Antidiabetic Medications on Osteoarthritis: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Wang Junjie , Li Yuxuan , Wang Binyang , Ma Qing , Yang Lvlin
Published: March 2024

Objective
Blood glucose metabolism is a crucial risk factor for the onset of osteoarthritis (OA). Our aim is to assess the causal relationship between blood glucose levels and the incidence of osteoarthritis, as well as the impact of antidiabetic medications on osteoarthritis outcomes, using Mendelian randomization (MR) methods.
Methods
This is a two-sample Mendelian randomization design. Osteoarthritis was chosen as the outcome, and causal relationships with three exposures—glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose (FG), and postprandial two-hour blood glucose (2hGlu)—were evaluated. Additionally, this study examined the relationship between common antidiabetic medication target genes (GCK, HFE, HK1, HKDC1, TCF7L2, and INS) and osteoarthritis. The inverse variance-weighted method (IVW) is primarily employed for effect estimation.
Results
HbA1c levels were negatively correlated with hip OA (OR 0.725, 95% CI 0.558–0.944) but not associated with knee OA or OA at any site. FG levels were negatively correlated with hip OA (OR 0.675, 95% CI 0.547–0.834) and OA at any site (OR 0.889, 95% CI 0.801–0.986). Gene predictions revealed a negative correlation between GCK and hip OA (OR 0.359, 95% CI 0.238–0.542), HFE and hip OA(OR 0.332, 95% CI 0.181–0.607), HK1 and knee OA (OR 0.735, 95% CI 0.565–0.955) and OA at any site (OR 0.743, 95% CI 0.636–0.868), HKDC1 and knee OA(OR 0.731, 95% CI 0.555–0.963) and OA at any site (OR 0.771, 95% CI 0.655–0.908), while INS shows a positive correlation with knee OA (OR 17.277, 95% CI 4.408–67.722) and OA at any site (OR 4.168, 95% CI 1.844–9.422).
Conclusion
MR analysis revealed a correlation between reduced HbA1c levels and an increased risk of hip OA, and FG was associated with an increased risk of hip OA and OA at any site. Gene predictions suggest that activating GCK, HFE, HK1, and HKDC1 genes with antidiabetic medications may reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis. Consideration of antidiabetic medications for treating osteoarthritis is plausible, but clinical validation is necessary.
Graded treadmill running protocol on dynamic visual acuity and balance for athletes with and without recent concussion history
Authors: Mitchell Katelyn M. , Dalton Kristine , Cinelli Michael E.
Published: February 2024

Athletes interpret dynamic visual scenes quickly and accurately during physical exertion. It is important to understand how increased exertion may impact vision and cognition following sport-related concussion (SRC).
Purpose: To examine the effect of treadmill exercise on dynamic visual acuity (DVA) for athletes with and without SRC.
Methods:Varsity athletes following recent SRC (CONC=12) were compared to athletes without SRC (ATHLETE=19). The DVA task presented a Tumbling ‘E’ target in four possible orientations during random walk (RW) or horizontal (H) motion at a speed of 30°/s. Participants performed DVA trials standing on a force plate (1000Hz) at four time points: 1) pre-exercise (PRE-EX), 2) immediately (POST1), 3) 10-minutes (POST10), and 4) 20-minutes post- exercise (POST20). Performance was calculated as a change in DVA score from PRE-EX and median response time (RT, ms). Balance control was analyzed using the root mean square of centre of pressure displacement (dCOP).
Results: Both groups maintained DVA scores for both motion types with similar balance strategies post-exercise. CONC responded more slowly by POST10 and POST20 during RW-motion compared to ATHLETE.
Conclusion: Both groups elicited similar exercise-induced benefits on DVA following exercise. However, a portion of athletes with SRC may experience transient cognitive benefits following exercise.
DarkGuardNet: A deep learning framework for imbalanced dark web traffic identification and application classification
Authors: Niu Teng , Li Wei , Liu Yazhi
Published: February 2024

The dark web was often utilized for illicit activities, data breaches, and the dissemination of malicious software. Researchers consistently employed various machine learning and deep learning approaches to detect dark web traffic. However, existing studies overlooked the comprehensive capture of multi-scale information in traffic data, resulting in an inability to fully extract features when dealing with complex structural data, especially in datasets with an imbalanced number of samples. To address this problem, our paper proposed DarkGuardNet for the recognition of dark web traffic and application type classification. Specifically, we conducted dark web traffic analysis based on sessions and designed a Spatio-temporal Feature Fusion (STFF) module to capture multi-scale feature correlations. This module extended the receptive field to deepen the understanding of complex data, allowing for the precise extraction of spatiotemporal features in imbalanced samples. In addition, we used Multi-Head Self-Attention (MHSA) to mine potential relationships between statistical features of dark web traffic, enabling the model to focus on key features of categories with small sample sizes. Finally, we conducted experiments on a new imbalanced dark web traffic dataset, formed by merging ISCXVPN and ISCXTor. The results indicated that the method achieved an accuracy of 0.999 in dark web traffic recognition and an accuracy of 0.986 in application type classification, surpassing other advanced methods. The Data is available at:https://github.com/niu954325618/Darknet2024/tree/main.
Kidney Outcomes and Trajectories of Tubular Injury and Function in Critically Ill Persons with and without Coronavirus-2019
Authors: Granda Michael L. , Tian Frances , Zelnick Leila R. , Bhatraju Pavan K. , Wurfel Mark M. , Hoofnagle Andrew , Morrell Eric , Kestenbaum Bryan
Published: February 2024

Background
Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) may injure the kidney tubules via activation of inflammatory host responses and/or direct viral infiltration. Most studies of kidney injury in COVID-19 lacked contemporaneous controls or measured kidney biomarkers at a single time point. To better understand mechanisms of AKI in COVID-19, we compared kidney outcomes and trajectories of tubular injury, viability, and function in prospectively enrolled critically ill adults with and without COVID-19.
Methods
The COVID-19 Host Response and Outcomes (CHROME) study prospectively enrolled patients admitted to intensive care units in Washington state with symptoms of lower respiratory tract infection, determining COVID-19 status by nucleic acid amplification on arrival. We evaluated major adverse kidney events (MAKE) defined as a doubling of serum creatinine, kidney replacement therapy, or death, in 330 patients after inverse probability weighting. In the 181 patients with available biosamples, we determined trajectories of urine kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) and epithelial growth factor (EGF), and urine:plasma ratios of endogenous markers of tubular secretory clearance.
Results
At ICU admission, mean age was 55\(\pm\)16 years; 45% required mechanical ventilation; and mean serum creatinine concentration was 1.1 mg/dL. COVID-19 was associated with a 70% greater incidence of MAKE (95% CI 1.05, 2.74) and a 741% greater incidence of KRT (95% CI 1.69, 32.41). The biomarker cohort had a median of three follow-up measurements. Urine EGF, secretory clearance ratios, and eGFR increased over time in the COVID-19 negative group but remained unchanged in the COVID-19 positive group. In contrast, urine KIM-1 concentrations did not significantly change over the course of the study in either group.
Conclusions
Among critically ill adults, COVID-19 is associated with a more protracted course of proximal tubular dysfunction.