Machine Learning Applications Research Articles

Causes of Multi-Mechanism Abnormal Formation Pressure in Offshore Oil and Gas Wells

This study thoroughly investigates the complex origins of abnormal formation pressure in offshore oil and gas wells, taking the Rio del Rey Basin in Cameroon as a case study. Renowned for its abundant oil and gas resources, the area faces unique challenges in predicting overpressure due to its high-temperature and high-pressure reservoir characteristics. By quantitatively analyzing the main mechanisms such as undercompaction, high-temperature fluid expansion, and mud diapirism, the study addresses the complexities of overpressure prediction. This paper introduces an innovative analytical framework that combines hierarchical clustering algorithms with the LightGBM model. Further refined by the application of Bayesian optimization, the model intelligently adjusts hyperparameters to enhance predictive accuracy. Utilizing well logging data and applying machine learning techniques, the paper classifies and identifies different mechanisms causing abnormal pressures, achieving a model prediction accuracy of 0.942. The research findings highlight the predominant role of the undercompaction mechanism, accounting for approximately 70% of the abnormal high-pressure events in the study area. Fluid expansion and shale diapirism contribute smaller but significant proportions of 10% and 20%, respectively. These quantitative insights into the pressure mechanisms are vital for optimizing drilling operations and reducing risks in oil and gas exploration. The study’s hybrid approach, integrating geophysical analysis with advanced computational techniques, sets a precedent for future research. It provides new avenues for applying machine learning to understand complex geological phenomena in similar geological environments and makes a significant contribution to the strategic planning of hydrocarbon exploration and production activities.

Data-Driven Approaches in Antimicrobial Resistance: Machine Learning Solutions

Background/Objectives: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) due to the misuse and overuse of antibiotics has become a critical threat to global public health. There is a dire need to forecast AMR to understand the underlying mechanisms of resistance for the development of effective interventions. This paper explores the capability of machine learning (ML) methods, particularly unsupervised learning methods, to enhance the understanding and prediction of AMR. It aims to determine the patterns from AMR gene data that are clinically relevant and, in public health, capable of informing strategies. Methods: We analyzed AMR gene data in the PanRes dataset by applying unsupervised learning techniques, namely K-means clustering and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). These techniques were applied to identify clusters based on gene length and distribution according to resistance class, offering insights into the resistance genes’ structural and functional properties. Data preprocessing, such as filtering and normalization, was conducted prior to applying machine learning methods to ensure consistency and accuracy. Our methodology included the preprocessing of data and reduction of dimensionality to ensure that our models were both accurate and interpretable. Results: The unsupervised learning models highlighted distinct clusters of AMR genes, with significant patterns in gene length, including their associated resistance classes. Further dimensionality reduction by PCA allows for clearer visualizations of relationships among gene groupings. These patterns provide novel insights into the potential mechanisms of resistance, particularly the role of gene length in different resistance pathways. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the potential of ML, specifically unsupervised approaches, to enhance the understanding of AMR. The identified patterns in resistance genes could support clinical decision-making and inform public health interventions. However, challenges remain, particularly in integrating genomic data and ensuring model interpretability. Further research is needed to advance ML applications in AMR prediction and management.

Enhancing IoT Security in Vehicles: A Comprehensive Review of AI-Driven Solutions for Cyber-Threat Detection

Background: The Internet of Things (IoT) has improved many aspects that have impacted the industry and the people’s daily lives. To begin with, the IoT allows communication to be made across a wide range of devices, from household appliances to industrial machinery. This connectivity allows for a better integration of the pervasive computing, making devices “smart” and capable of interacting with each other and with the corresponding users in a sublime way. However, the widespread adoption of IoT devices has introduced some security challenges, because these devices usually run in environments that have limited resources. As IoT technology becomes more integrated into critical infrastructure and daily life, the need for stronger security measures will increase. These devices are exposed to a variety of cyber-attacks. This literature review synthesizes the current research of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to improve IoT security. This review addresses key research questions, including: (1) What are the primary challenges and threats that IoT devices face?; (2) How can AI be used to improve IoT security?; (3) What AI techniques are currently being used for this purpose?; and (4) How does applying AI to IoT security differ from traditional methods? Methods: We included a total of 33 peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2024, specifically in journal and conference papers written in English. Studies irrelevant to the use of AI for IoT security, duplicate studies, and articles without full-text access were excluded. The literature search was conducted using scientific databases, including MDPI, ScienceDirect, IEEE Xplore, and SpringerLink. Results were synthesized through a narrative synthesis approach, with the help of the Parsifal tool to organize and visualize key themes and trends. Results: We focus on the use of machine learning, deep learning, and federated learning, which are used for anomaly detection to identify and mitigate the security threats inherent to these devices. AI-driven technologies offer promising solutions for attack detection and predictive analysis, reducing the need for human intervention more significantly. This review acknowledges limitations such as the rapidly evolving nature of IoT technologies, the early-stage development or proprietary nature of many AI techniques, the variable performance of AI models in real-world applications, and potential biases in the search and selection of articles. The risk of bias in this systematic review is moderate. While the study selection and data collection processes are robust, the reliance on narrative synthesis and the limited exploration of potential biases in the selection process introduce some risk. Transparency in funding and conflict of interest reporting reduces bias in those areas. Discussion: The effectiveness of these AI-based approaches can vary depending on the performance of the model and the computational efficiency. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of existing AI models applied to IoT security, including machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), and hybrid approaches. We also examine their role in enhancing the detection accuracy. Despite all the advances, challenges still remain in terms of data privacy and the scalability of AI solutions in IoT security. Conclusion: This review provides a comprehensive overview of ML applications to enhance IoT security. We also discuss and outline future directions, emphasizing the need for collaboration between interested parties and ongoing innovation to address the evolving threat landscape in IoT security.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning at various stages and scales of process systems engineering

AbstractWe review the utility and application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) at various process scales in this work, from molecules and reactions to materials to processes, plants, and supply chains; furthermore, we highlight whether the application is at the design or operational stage of the process. In particular, we focus on the distinct representational frameworks employed at the various scales and the physics (equivariance, additivity, injectivity, connectivity, hierarchy, and heterogeneity) they capture. We also review AI techniques and frameworks important in process systems, including hybrid AI modelling, human‐AI collaborations, and generative AI techniques. In hybrid AI models, we emphasize the importance of hyperparameter tuning, especially in the case of physics‐informed regularization. We highlight the importance of studying human‐AI interactions, especially in the context of automation, and distinguish the features of human‐complements‐AI systems from those of AI‐complements‐human systems. Of particular importance in the AI‐complements‐human framework are model explanations, including rule‐based explanation, explanation‐by‐example, explanation‐by‐simplification, visualization, and feature relevance. Generative AI methods are becoming increasingly relevant in process systems engineering, especially in contexts that do not belong to ‘big data’, primarily due to the lack of high quality labelled data. We highlight the use of generative AI methods including generative adversarial networks, graph neural networks, and large language models/transformers along with non‐traditional process data (images, audio, and text).

Pred-AHCP: Robust Feature Selection-Enabled Sequence-Specific Prediction of Anti-Hepatitis C Peptides via Machine Learning.

Every year, an estimated 1.5 million people worldwide contract Hepatitis C, a significant contributor to liver problems. Although many studies have explored machine learning's potential to predict antiviral peptides, very few have addressed the problem of predicting peptides against specific viruses such as Hepatitis C. In this study, we demonstrate the application and fine-tuning of machine learning (ML) algorithms to predict peptides that are effective against Hepatitis C virus (HCV). We developed a fine-tuned and explainable ML model that harnesses the amino acid sequence of a peptide to predict its anti-hepatitis C potential. Specifically, features were computed based on sequence and physicochemical properties. The feature selection was performed using a combined strategy of mutual information and variance inflation factor. This facilitated the removal of redundant and multicollinear features, enhancing the model's generalizability in predicting anti-hepatitis C peptides (AHCPs). The model using the random forest algorithm produced the best performance with an accuracy of about 92%. The feature analysis highlights that the distributions of hydrophobicity, polarizability, coil-forming residues, frequency of glycine residues and the existence of dipeptide motifs VL, LV, and CC emerged as the key predictors for identifying AHCPs targeting different components of HCV. The developed model can be accessed through the Pred-AHCP web server, provided at http://tinyurl.com/web-Pred-AHCP. This resource facilitates the prediction and re-engineering of AHCPs for designing peptide-based therapeutics while also proposing an exploration of similar strategies for designing peptide inhibitors effective against other viruses. The developed ML model can also be used for validating peptide sequences generated using generative artificial intelligence methods for further optimization.

Machine Learning and Deep Learning Applications in Disinformation Detection: A Bibliometric Assessment

Fake news is one of the biggest challenging issues in today’s technological world and has a huge impact on the population’s decision-making and way of thinking. Disinformation can be classified as a subdivision of fake news, the main purpose of which is to manipulate and generate confusion among people in order to influence their opinion and obtain certain advantages in multiple domains (politics, economics, etc.). Propaganda, rumors, and conspiracy theories are just a few examples of common disinformation. Therefore, there is an urgent need to understand this phenomenon and offer the scientific community a paper that provides a comprehensive examination of the existing literature, lay the foundation for future research areas, and contribute to the fight against disinformation. The present manuscript provides a detailed bibliometric analysis of the articles oriented towards disinformation detection, involving high-performance machine learning and deep learning algorithms. The dataset has been collected from the popular Web of Science database, through the use of specific keywords such as “disinformation”, “machine learning”, or “deep learning”, followed by a manual check of the papers included in the dataset. The documents were examined using the popular R tool, Biblioshiny 4.2.0; the bibliometric analysis included multiple perspectives and various facets: dataset overview, sources, authors, papers, n-gram analysis, and mixed analysis. The results highlight an increased interest from the scientific community on disinformation topics in the context of machine learning and deep learning, supported by an annual growth rate of 96.1%. The insights gained from the research bring to light surprising details, while the study provides a solid basis for both future research in this area, as well for the development of new strategies addressing this complex issue of disinformation and ensuring a trustworthy and safe online environment.

Machine Learning in Wear Prediction

Abstract As modern devices and systems continue to advance, device wear remains a key factor in limiting their performance and lifetime, as well as environmental and health effects. Traditional approaches often rely on wear prediction based on physical models, but due to device complexity and uncertainty, these methods often fail to provide accurate predictions and accurate wear identification. Machine learning, as a data-driven approach based on its ability to discover patterns and correlations in complex systems, has enormous potential for monitoring and predicting device wear. Here, we review recent advances in applying machine learning for predicting the wear of mechanical components. Machine learning for wear prediction shows significant potential in optimizing material selection, manufacturing processes, and equipment maintenance, ultimately enhancing productivity and resource efficiency. Successful implementation relies on careful data collection, standardized evaluation methods, and the selection of effective algorithms, with artificial neural networks (ANNs) frequently demonstrating notable success in predictive accuracy.

Predictive modeling of preoperative acute heart failure in older adults with hypertension: a dual perspective of SHAP values and interaction analysis

BackgroundIn older adults with hypertension, hip fractures accompanied by preoperative acute heart failure significantly elevate surgical risks and adverse outcomes, necessitating timely identification and management to improve patient outcomes.Research objectiveThis study aims to enhance the early recognition of acute heart failure in older hypertensive adults prior to hip fracture surgery by developing a predictive model using logistic regression (LR) and machine learning methods, optimizing preoperative assessment and management.MethodsEmploying a retrospective study design, we analyzed hypertensive older adults who underwent hip fracture surgery at Hebei Medical University Third Hospital from January 2018 to December 2022. Predictive models were constructed using LASSO regression and multivariable logistic regression, evaluated via nomogram charts. Five additional machine learning methods were utilized, with variable importance assessed using SHAP values and the impact of key variables evaluated through multivariate correlation analysis and interaction effects.ResultsThe study included 1,370 patients. LASSO regression selected 18 key variables, including sex, age, coronary heart disease, pulmonary infection, ventricular arrhythmias, acute myocardial infarction, and anemia. The logistic regression model demonstrated robust performance with an AUC of 0.753. Although other models outperformed it in sensitivity and F1 score, logistic regression’s discriminative ability was significant for clinical decision-making. The Gradient Boosting Machine model, notable for a sensitivity of 95.2%, indicated substantial capability in identifying patients at risk, crucial for reducing missed diagnoses.ConclusionWe developed and compared efficacy of predictive models using logistic regression and machine learning, interpreting them with SHAP values and analyzing key variable interactions. This offers a scientific basis for assessing preoperative heart failure risk in older adults with hypertension and hip fractures, providing significant guidance for individualized treatment strategies and underscoring the value of applying machine learning in clinical settings.

MinCloud: Trusted and transferable MinHash-based framework for unknown malware detection for Linux cloud environments

Linux clouds have become an attractive target for cyber-attacks. However, existing detection solutions for Linux clouds have variety of limitations. Some of the solutions are untrusted, incapable of detecting unknown malware, or rely on a human expert to define the features. Other solutions are trusted but require a large amount of computational resources or have a limited ability to detect rootkits, fileless malware, or malware on a different server. In this study, we propose MinCloud, a trusted and transferable MinHash-based framework for unknown malware detection in Linux virtual servers that overcomes the limitations of existing solutions. In the first stage, we acquired volatile memory dumps from virtual servers by querying the hypervisor in a trusted manner and then analyzed them using the MinHash method. Finally, the MinHash characteristics are harnessed by applying machine learning classifiers to achieve precise malware detection. MinCloud was evaluated on widely used Linux virtual servers, various benign and malicious applications, and 23,000 volatile memory dumps, each representing different behaviors of the examined servers and the executed applications over time. MinCloud's evaluation shows it can (1) detect unknown malware, (2) classify unknown malware according to its malware category, (3) detect fileless attacks and rootkit malware, and (4) provide accurately transfer detection between different Linux servers. MinCloud outperformed state-of-the-art trusted detection methods and commonly used antiviruses.

Explainability and Stability of Machine Learning Applications — A Financial Risk Management Perspective

Explainability and Stability of Machine Learning Applications — A Financial Risk Management Perspective

Comprehensive Review of Feature Extraction Techniques for sEMG Signal Classification: From Handcrafted Features to Deep Learning Approaches

Surface Electromyography (sEMG) has become an essential tool in various fields, including prosthetic control and clinical evaluation of the neuromusculoskeletal system. In recent years, the application of machine learning and deep learning techniques to sEMG signal classification has gained significant interest. This survey provides a detailed exploration of feature extraction methods for sEMG classification, from traditional handcrafted features to learned features. ObjectivesThis review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of feature extraction techniques for sEMG signal classification, focusing on both handcrafted and learned features. It seeks to advance research by offering a deeper understanding of fundamental concepts in sEMG signal analysis, along with comparisons and summaries of state-of-the-art approaches. Materials and MethodsThe survey covers various feature extraction techniques used for sEMG classification, including signal acquisition, preprocessing, and the application of conventional machine learning and deep learning classifiers. It offers taxonomies, definitions, and performance comparisons, equipping researchers with a broad understanding of current methodologies. ResultsHandcrafted features combined with traditional machine learning classifiers have demonstrated strong performance, especially with smaller datasets. However, deep learning techniques have shown superior results in many applications, despite challenges related to data availability and model interpretability. The survey highlights key findings regarding the performance of both approaches. ConclusionThis study bridges the gap between traditional and learned feature extraction techniques for sEMG signal classification. It provides a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners, offering insights that can guide future advancements. Key areas for future research include addressing data scarcity in deep learning and improving model interpretability for clinical applications.

Creep Lifetime Prediction of Alloy 617 Using Black Box Machine Learning Approach

Abstract This study explored the application of black box machine learning (ML) to build high throughput models that predict the creep response of Ni-based Alloy 617. Black box ML refers to highly complex machine learning algorithms that generate outputs from inputs without an interpretable internal process. The rapid implementation of suitable heat of alloys into targeted service is impeded by the extended qualification process involving chemistry-processing-structure-performance assessment. The ASME B&PV Code III outlines the requirement of 10,000 h of creep testing before each heat can be qualified for service and 30,000 h for heats that exhibit metastable phases. There is a critical need to shorten the development-to-deployment timeline for heats of an alloy at specific applications. Recent advancement in ML offers the ability to identify correlations in data which is difficult to elucidate by other approaches. To that end, black box ML is employed to expedite the HEAT qualification of Alloy 617 and predict performance from HEAT chemistry out to an unprecedented timescale. In this study, creep data for Ni-based Alloy 617—a solid solution strengthened material is gathered from a wide range of data sources. The alloy chemistry, phases, precipitates, and microstructural features are analyzed to obtain the key strengthening mechanism. Service conditions, mechanical properties, chemistry, and chemical ratios are provided as potential input features. The Pearson correlation coefficient with a 95% confidence bound is employed for input feature screening where poorly correlated inputs are eliminated to speed up the ML process and prevent under- and/or over-fitting of predictions. In the ML algorithm, the selected input features are regarded as predictors, and rupture is regarded as the response. An algorithm evaluation is performed where 20 ML algorithms are trained with the training set. The three-layered neural network (NN) was observed to be the best algorithm for the given data based on statistical rationale. The NN accurately predicts rupture across a range of isotherms and data sources. The interpolative and extrapolative predictions are in compliance with ECCC V5 guidelines. A post-audit validation exhibits neither under- nor over-fitting and confirms the applicability of NN algorithms to unseen data. The black box ML provides a pathway to predict the performance directly from chemistry and opens avenues to rapid heat qualification.

Application of Machine Learning for Predictive Analysis and Management of Mediterranean-Farmed Fish Mortalities: A Risk Management Case Study Using Apache Spark

The current study evaluates the performance of three machine learning models—Decision Trees, Random Forest, and Linear Regression—applied to aquaculture data to mitigate risks in aquaculture management. The performances of these models are analyzed and properly demonstrated using metrics including the Mean Squared Error (MSE), R-squared (R2), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), and Concordance Index (C-index). The Random Forest model achieved the highest prediction accuracy among all machine learning models, followed by Linear Regression and the Decision Trees. The scatter plot for Linear Regression demonstrates good predictive accuracy for mid-range values. However, it shows significant deviations at the extremes, indicating that the model struggles to capture the full range of variability in the data. The bar chart of coefficients pinpoints the variables with the greatest impact on the predictions, providing suggestions for potential areas that can be improved and providing model interpretability. Future work could incorporate more predictive statistics models focusing on improving the models for extreme values by assessing non-linear models, feature engineering methods, and expanding research into less influential variables. The results greatly impact several sections, including aquaculture management, policy-making, and operational strategies, providing valuable insights for stakeholders and decision-makers. Apache Spark was used for data processing and machine learning model implementation; Apache Cassandra was also used for data storage, ensuring efficient large dataset management and SQL tools for structured data handling; Oracle VM VirtualBox for cross-platform virtualization; and Spark Connector was also used.

Enhancing pricing strategies in the aftermarket sector with machine learning

PurposeThis research explores the application of machine learning to optimize pricing strategies in the aftermarket sector, particularly focusing on parts with no assigned values and the detection of outliers. The study emphasizes the need to incorporate technical features to improve pricing accuracy and decision-making.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology involves data collection from web scraping and backend sources, followed by data preprocessing, feature engineering and model selection to capture the technical attributes of parts. A Random Forest Regressor model is chosen and trained to predict prices, achieving a 76.14% accuracy rate.FindingsThe model demonstrates accurate price prediction for parts with no assigned values while remaining within an acceptable price range. Additionally, outliers representing extreme pricing scenarios are successfully identified and predicted within the acceptable range.Originality/valueThis research bridges the gap between industry practice and academic research by demonstrating the effectiveness of machine learning for aftermarket pricing optimization. It offers an approach to address the challenges of pricing parts without assigned values and identifying outliers, potentially leading to increased revenue, sharper pricing tactics and a competitive advantage for aftermarket companies.

Advanced Mineral Deposit Mapping via Deep Learning and SVM Integration With Remote Sensing Imaging Data

ABSTRACTAutomating mineral delineation and rock type analysis using remote sensing imaging data is a critical application of machine learning. Traditional machine learning methods often struggle with accuracy and precise map generation. This study aims to enhance performance through a refined deep learning model. In this work, we present a deep learning pipeline to map the mineral deposits in the study area. Initially, we apply a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) to a specialized mineral dataset to map mineral deposits within the study area. Subsequently, we build a hybrid model combining deep CNN layers with a support vector machine (SVM). This merger significantly improves classification accuracy from an initial 92.7% to 95.3%. In our approach, CNN layers function as feature extractors while the SVM serves as the classification model. Moreover, we conduct an evaluation of the SVM using polynomial kernels of degrees 3, 6, 9, and 12. The results indicate that the SVM with a degree of 12 achieved the highest classification accuracy, followed by degrees 9, 6, and 3. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed method for classifying remote sensing imaging data, showcasing its potential for advancing mineral delineation and rock type analysis.

Analysing the Influence of Augmented Reality on Organization Performance via Supply and Logistics Value Chain Functions: A Hybrid ANN-PLS Model Assessment in the Gulf Cooperation Council Region

Background: Despite the resurgence of interest in augmented reality (AR) due to Industry 4.0 and its ability to resolve several challenges faced by current business models, comprehensive research examining the capabilities of AR in supply chain management (SCM) and logistics remains limited. This article aims to investigate the potential effects of AR technology on organizational performance through the mediation role of SCM and logistics value chain functions to address the existing knowledge gap. Methods: This research employed a cross-sectional design and an explanatory survey as a deductive approach for hypothesis development. The primary data collection method involved the self-administration of a questionnaire to furniture suppliers located in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including six countries. Of the 656 questionnaires submitted to suppliers, 483 were considered usable, yielding a response rate of 73.6%. The research utilized partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and artificial neural network (ANN) techniques to evaluate the gathered data. Results: The current paper’s statistical evidence demonstrates that AR implementation has a positive impact on the supply and logistics value chain activities and organizational performance of furniture suppliers in the GCC region. Moreover, it illustrates that the design and planning variable of supply chain value dominates as the primary predictor of organization performance. The results indicated that the ANN strategy provided a more comprehensive explanation of internally generated constructs compared to the PLS-SEM technique. Conclusions: This study demonstrates its usefulness by advising furniture industry decision-makers on what to avoid and what aspects to consider when creating plans and regulations. The report also suggests operations managers apply machine learning (ANN) for prediction and decision-making in supply and operations value chains. This essay looks at how the AR and resource-based supply value chain view may affect company performance across countries, firm sizes, and ages.

Computational Math Modeling and AI Optimization for Better Decision-Making: Applications in Machine Learning

The integration of computational mathematical modeling, optimization, machine learning (ML), data analysis, and artificial intelligence (AI) offers transformative opportunities to solve complex problems across diverse fields. This paper delves into the development and application of advanced modeling techniques that blend traditional mathematical approaches with advanced AI algorithms to enhance predictive accuracy, optimize resource allocation, and improve decision-making processes in areas such as logistics, finance, engineering, and healthcare. By leveraging data-driven insights, these models can simulate real-world scenarios and identify optimal solutions more effectively than conventional methods. The paper also explores how AI-enhanced modeling can impact broader systems by reshaping industry practices, influencing frameworks, and potentially challenging established societal norms. Eventually, the paper argues for a balanced and informed deployment of AI-driven modeling techniques to maximize their benefits while addressing potential risks and limitations.

Applications Of Machine Learning In Computer Vision: A Review

Applications Of Machine Learning In Computer Vision: A Review

Integration by design: driving mineral system knowledge using multi-modal, collocated, scale-consistent characterisation

Abstract. Recent decades have seen an exponential rise in the application of machine learning in geoscience. However, fundamental differences distinguish geoscience data from most other data types. Geoscience datasets are typically multi-dimensional, and contain 1D (drill holes), 2D (maps or cross-sections), and 3D volumetric and point data (models/voxels). Geoscience data quality is a product of the data's resolution and the precision of the methods used to acquire them. The dimensionality, resolution, and precision of each layer within a geoscience dataset translate into limitations to the spatiality, scale, and uncertainty of resulting interpretations. Historically, geoscience datasets were overlaid cartographically to incorporate subjective, experience-driven knowledge and variances in scale and resolution. These nuances and limitations that underpin the reliability of automated interpretation are well understood by geoscientists but are rarely appropriately transferred to data science. For true integration of geoscience data, such issues cannot be overlooked without consequence. To apply data analytics to complex geoscience data (e.g. hydrothermal mineral systems) effectively, methodologies that characterise the system quantitatively at a common scale, using collocated analyses, should be sought. This paper provides research and exploration insights from an innovative district-wide, scale-integrated geoscience data project, which analysed 1590 samples from 23 mineral deposits and prospects across the Cloncurry district, Queensland, Australia. Nine different analytical techniques were used, including density, magnetic susceptibility, remanent magnetisation, anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility, radiometrics, conductivity, automated mineralogy based on scanning electron microscopy (SEM), geochemistry, and short-wave infrared (SWIR) hyperspectral data with 561 columns of scale-integrated data (+2151 columns of SWIR data). All data were collected on 2.2 cm × 2.5 cm sample cylinders, a scale at which the confidence in the coupling of data from techniques can be high. These data are integrated by design to eliminate the need to downscale coarser measurements via assumptions, inferences, inversions, and interpolations. This scale-consistent approach is critical to the quantitative characterisation of mineral systems and has numerous applications in mineral exploration, such as linking alteration paragenesis with structural controls and petrophysical zonation. The Cloncurry METAL dataset is made freely available via the AuScope Data Repository: https://doi.org/10.60623/82trleue (Austin et al., 2024).

Predictors of HIV seroconversion in Botswana: machine learning analysis in a representative, population-based HIV incidence cohort.

To identify predictors of HIV acquisition in Botswana. We applied machine learning approaches to identify HIV risk predictors using existing data from a large, well-characterized HIV incidence cohort. We applied machine learning (randomForestSRC) to analyze data from a large population-based HIV incidence cohort enrolled in a cluster-randomized HIV prevention trial in 30 communities across Botswana. We sought to identify the most important risk factors for HIV acquisition, starting with 110 potential predictors. During a median 29-month follow-up of 8,551 HIV-negative adults, 147 (1.7%) acquired HIV. Our machine learning analysis found that for females, the most important variables for predicting HIV acquisition were the use of injectable hormonal contraception, frequency of sex in the prior 3 months with the most recent partner and residing in a community with HIV prevalence of 29% or higher. For the small proportion (0.3%) of females who had all three risk factors, their estimated probability of acquiring HIV during 29 months of follow-up was 34% (approximate annual incidence of 14%). For males, non-long-term relationships with the most recent partner and community HIV prevalence of 34% or higher were the most important HIV risk predictors. The 6% of males who had both risk factors had a 5.1% probability of acquiring HIV during the follow-up period (approximate annual incidence of 2.1%). Machine learning approaches allowed us to analyze a large number of variables to efficiently identify key factors strongly predictive of HIV risk. These factors could help target HIV prevention interventions in Botswana. NCT01965470.