Assessment Approach Research Articles

Testing the Multivariate Hüsler–Reiss Model as a Practical Parametric Approach for Multiple River Flood Risk Assessment Using d4PDF Data: A Case Study in Kyushu Island, Japan

Testing the Multivariate Hüsler–Reiss Model as a Practical Parametric Approach for Multiple River Flood Risk Assessment Using d4PDF Data: A Case Study in Kyushu Island, Japan

Resource classification of coal bed methane and its contribution in energy transition and decarbonization path of oil and gas industry (A synopsis of CBM Life Cycle Analysis)

World economies are becoming increasingly more dependent on energy and countries have a voracious appetite for energy therefore, the need for an abundant clean energy is becoming a necessity. Energy companies are challenging environmental costs of coal bed methane as with advancement of new technology the impact from production of coal bed methane can reduce and to a certain extent avoided or offset. Production of coal bed methane results in changes to the land, to surface water and to ground water systems. Carbon quantification is required to understand, monitor and manage these changes. Previous life cycle analysis for this resource class has lack of process design details because of which there is a knowledge gap in understanding of emission profile of coal bed methane’s production. The objective of this study is to add value and reduce the scientific gap with respect to the production techniques of coal bed methane and its environmental impact. Removal of water continuously from coal seams depletes ground water and may eventually lower surface water flows (streams and rivers). It can also change the flow of groundwater drawing fresh water into the coal seams. To better understand this phenomenon the work establishes the Coal Bed Methane production foundation by in depth understanding of · Coal Bed Methane reservoir types; · Coal Bed Methane depositional environment, generation, and geological distributions; · Coal Bed Methane resource energy supply methods by understanding its construction, production and processing. The study then uses Life Cycle Assessment approach and understands previous emission numbers of Coal Bed Methane’s resource development. The work does systematic analysis and summarizes the previously published Life Cycle Analysis to understand further the potential environmental impacts of resource development of Coal Bed Methane. This will help energy companies to understand the field development, production, and operations of coal bed methane’s resource in terms of carbon numbers thereby optimizing the operations through carbon management thus reducing the potential impacts.

Assessing petroleum contamination in parts of the Niger Delta based on a sub-catchment delineated field assessment.

The Niger Delta in Nigeria is a complex and heavily contaminated area with over 150,000 interconnected contaminated sites. This intricate issue is compounded by the region's strong hydrological processes and high-energy environment, necessitating a science-based approach for effective contamination assessment and management. This study introduces the concept of sub-catchment contamination assessment and management, providing an overarching perspective rather than addressing each site individually. A description of the sub-catchment delineation process using the digital elevation model data from an impacted area within the Delta is provided. Additionally, the contamination status from the delineated sub-catchment is reported. Sediment, surface water and groundwater samples from the sub-catchment were analyzed for total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), respectively. Surface sediment TPH concentrations ranged from 129 to 20,600mg/kg, with subsurface (2-m depth) concentrations from 15.5 to 729mg/kg. PAHs in surface and subsurface sediment reached 9.55mg/kg and 0.46mg/kg, respectively. Surface water exhibited TPH concentrations from 10 to 620mg/L, while PAHs ranged from below detection limits to 1mg/L. Groundwater TPH concentrations spanned 3 to 473mg/L, with total PAHs varying from below detection limits to 0.28mg/L. These elevated TPH and PAH levels indicate extensive petroleum contamination in the investigated sediment and water environment. Along with severe impacts on large areas of mangroves and wetlands, comparison of TPH and PAH concentrations with sediment and water quality criteria found 54 to 100% of stations demonstrated exceedances, suggesting adverse biological effects on aquatic and sediment biota are likely occurring.

Assessing Environmental Impact: Organosolv Extraction of Cellulose Pulp from Wood Waste

In the upcoming years, the paper industry is expected rely on containerboard for packaging, with approximately 80% of it being made from recycled fibers by 2020. Creating a new supply chain for fibers could help mitigate possible shortages. In this context, wood waste emerges as a valuable resource with the potential to serve as a plentiful and cost-effective reservoir for generating new materials, as cellulose fibers. This study presents an assessment of the environmental impact associated with the organosolv extraction of cellulose pulp from wood waste based on a previous in lab study conducted by the authors. The increasing demand for sustainable materials has prompted exploration into alternative methods for cellulose pulp production, with a focus on minimizing environmental footprint. Organosolv extraction, a promising technique, involves the use of organic solvents and acid catalysts to break down lignocellulosic biomass, resulting in high-quality cellulose pulp production. To evaluate the environmental implications of this process, a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) approach was adopted. The LCA framework considers all stages of the organosolv extraction process, from wood waste collection to cellulose pulp manufacture, using a gate-to-gate approach. The functional unit for assessment is set as one ton of cellulose pulp. The dataset utilized for the LCA comprises primary data obtained from laboratory experiments, complemented by secondary data sourced from literature and the Ecoinvent life cycle inventory database. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the influence of key parameters on the environmental performance of the organosolv extraction process, with a focus on variations in energy consumption to identify potential areas for optimization and improvement. In summary, this study emphasizes the environmental aspects of utilizing organosolv extraction for cellulose pulp production from wood waste. Further research is warranted to explore energy consumption during the organosolv process for obtaining more precise data and optimizing the process. This could be achieved through pilot-scale experiments or utilizing process simulation software.

The bidirectional relationship between sleep problems and chronic musculoskeletal pain: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

Chronic musculoskeletal pain and sleep problems/disorders exhibit a recognized bidirectional relationship; yet, systematic investigations of this claim, particularly in a prospective context, are lacking. This systematic review with meta-analysis aimed to synthesize the literature on the prospective associations between sleep problems/disorders and chronic musculoskeletal pain. A comprehensive search across 6 databases identified prospective longitudinal cohort studies in adults examining the relationship between sleep problems/disorders and chronic musculoskeletal pain. Random-effects meta-analyses, using the Hartung-Knapp adjustment for 95% confidence intervals (CIs), were conducted, and all results were presented as odds ratios (ORs). Certainty of evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations approach. Including 16 articles from 11 study populations (116,746 participants), meta-analyses indicated that sleep problems at baseline may heighten the risk of chronic musculoskeletal pain in both short term (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.01-2.65) and long term (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.21-1.59). The evidence for different sleep problem categories was very uncertain. Chronic musculoskeletal pain at baseline may increase the risk of short-term sleep problems (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.02-2.38), but long-term evidence was very uncertain. The impact of only local or only widespread pain on short-term sleep problems was very uncertain, whereas widespread pain may elevate the risk of long-term sleep problems (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.81-2.21). In conclusion, this systematic review with meta-analysis suggests that sleep problems are associated with an increased risk of chronic musculoskeletal pain, but the bidirectional nature of this relationship requires further investigation.

Temporal variability of sinkhole hazard illustrated in the western shore of the Dead Sea

AbstractThe growing economic and societal damage caused by sinkhole activity worldwide requires the development of scientifically sound sinkhole hazard assessment approaches. Currently, there is a striking paucity of quantitative sinkhole hazard studies largely related to the incompleteness of sinkhole inventories and the lack of chronological data. Moreover, the probability of occurrence of sinkholes (i.e., sinkhole hazard) is commonly considered as a steady variable, a concept that may lead to significant hazard over- or under-estimates. The extraordinarily high frequency of sinkhole occurrence of the studied sector of the western shore of the Dead Sea has allowed us to explore for the first time the potential temporal variability of sinkhole hazard parameters. Here, we produced six multi-temporal sinkhole inventories with morphometric data between 2005 and 2021 using remote-sensed imagery. The frequency-size relationships generated for successive time intervals with a total of 667 new sinkholes reveal substantial temporal changes in the sinkhole hazard components (i.e., frequency and size). Moreover, the work illustrates that spatial redundancy (sinkholes nested within or intersecting pre-existing ones) can lead to significant hazard overestimates if not considered, especially in areas with high sinkhole density and clustering. This work discusses the limitations of some widely used methods and concepts for sinkhole hazard assessment and illustrates the advantages of detailed multi-temporal mapping for assessing frequency-size relationships and their temporal trends.

The Environmental Impact of Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) on Health

We have methodically scrutinized the pervasive electromagnetic fields (EMF) prevalent in modern society for their potential health hazards. The aim of this study was to investigate the levels of exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF), resulting biological effects, present recommendations, population characteristics, and public opinion. The main aim of this research is to give a comprehensive explanation of the subject. The data collection process encompassed gathering EMF exposure levels in different settings, analyzing experimental studies on biological impacts, consolidating existing standards, investigating demographic discrepancies, and evaluating public perception through surveys. We analyzed the data using descriptive statistics to summarize the findings and inferential statistics to evaluate the relationships between variables. EMF exposure levels differed among various locations, with metropolitan areas and industrial facilities demonstrating elevated amounts. Studies in real life have shown that electromagnetic fields (EMF) can have many effects on living things, including increased oxidative stress, changed gene expression, and messed up biological cycles. Different organizations had varying guidelines, which were based on different risk assessment approaches. There were differences in the demographic groups regarding their exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) and their levels of awareness. Children and teenagers had more exposure to EMF, whereas younger individuals showed higher levels of awareness but variable degrees of concern. Public opinion differed among age groups, with younger people relying more on online sources for information. This study offers significant insights into the complex correlation between electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure and human health. The results emphasize the necessity of focused evaluation of risks and implementation of measures to reduce them, standardization of standards, and customized communication campaigns to tackle demographic differences in awareness and apprehension. This research contributes new findings to the existing body of knowledge, facilitating public discussions, influencing governmental decisions, and fostering a healthier and more informed society.

Wheeled mobility use outcomes: a systematic review of measurement properties protocol.

Numerous tools have been developed to measure constructs related to wheelchair use. Currently, no toolkit comprehensively details assessments of wheeled mobility device use based on the quality of their measurement properties. The current review aims to systematically identify high-quality assessment tools that measure different aspects of wheeled mobility use. The objectives are two-fold: (1) to synthesize outcome measures that assess use of wheeled mobility devices, and (2) to evaluate measurement properties of the assessment tools. The populations of interest are manual wheelchair users, power wheelchair users, and scooter users of any age, diagnosis, or setting. Instruments of any type will be included. The JBI methodology for systematic reviews of measurement properties will guide this review. A search strategy will be developed to search the following databases: MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase, CINAHL (EBSCOhost), PsycINFO (EBSCOhost), PsycTests (EBSCOhost), Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The article selection process, data extraction, and quality appraisal will be performed by 2 independent reviewers, with a third reviewer being consulted to achieve consensus. The methodological quality of the studies will be assessed through the Consensus Standards for the Selection of Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) Risk of Bias tool and the COSMIN Checklist. The quality of the pooled evidence and individual measurement properties will be graded using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach and the COSMIN Criteria for Good Measurement Properties recommendations. Measurement properties of each instrument will be described, with the goal of developing a toolkit that identifies appropriate assessment tools for wheeled mobility use outcomes. PROSPERO: CRD4202276169.

Enhancing Green Building Technologies and Solutions in UAE University Campus: A Comprehensive Assessment and Validation Approach

Enhancing Green Building Technologies and Solutions in UAE University Campus: A Comprehensive Assessment and Validation Approach

3D Computational Modeling of Defective Early Endosome Distribution in Human iPSC-Based Cardiomyopathy Models

Intracellular cargo delivery via distinct transport routes relies on vesicle carriers. A key trafficking route distributes cargo taken up by clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) via early endosomes. The highly dynamic nature of the endosome network presents a challenge for its quantitative analysis, and theoretical modelling approaches can assist in elucidating the organization of the endosome trafficking system. Here, we introduce a new computational modelling approach for assessment of endosome distributions. We employed a model of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs) with inherited mutations causing dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). In this model, vesicle distribution is defective due to impaired CME-dependent signaling, resulting in plasma membrane-localized early endosomes. We recapitulated this in iPSC-CMs carrying two different mutations, TPM1-L185F and TnT-R141W (MUT), using 3D confocal imaging as well as super-resolution STED microscopy. We computed scaled distance distributions of EEA1-positive vesicles based on a spherical approximation of the cell. Employing this approach, 3D spherical modelling identified a bi-modal segregation of early endosome populations in MUT iPSC-CMs, compared to WT controls. Moreover, spherical modelling confirmed reversion of the bi-modal vesicle localization in RhoA II-treated MUT iPSC-CMs. This reflects restored, homogeneous distribution of early endosomes within MUT iPSC-CMs following rescue of CME-dependent signaling via RhoA II-dependent RhoA activation. Overall, our approach enables assessment of early endosome distribution in cell-based disease models. This new method may provide further insight into the dynamics of endosome networks in different physiological scenarios.

Objective and automatic assessment approach for diagnosing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder based on skeleton detection and classification analysis in outpatient videos

BackgroundAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is diagnosed in accordance with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition criteria by using subjective observations and information provided by parents and teachers. However, subjective analysis often leads to overdiagnosis or underdiagnosis. There are two types of motor abnormalities in patients with ADHD. First, hyperactivity with fidgeting and restlessness is the major diagnostic criterium for ADHD. Second, developmental coordination disorder characterized by deficits in the acquisition and execution of coordinated motor skills is not the major criterium for ADHD. In this study, a machine learning-based approach was proposed to evaluate and classify 96 patients into ADHD (48 patients, 26 males and 22 females, with mean age: 7y6m) and non-ADHD (48 patients, 26 males and 22 females, with mean age: 7y8m) objectively and automatically by quantifying their movements and evaluating the restlessness scales.MethodsThis approach is mainly based on movement quantization through analysis of variance in patients’ skeletons detected in outpatient videos. The patients’ skeleton sequence in the video was detected using OpenPose and then characterized using 11 values of feature descriptors. A classification analysis based on six machine learning classifiers was performed to evaluate and compare the discriminating power of different feature combinations.ResultsThe results revealed that compared with the non-ADHD group, the ADHD group had significantly larger means in all cases of single feature descriptors. The single feature descriptor “thigh angle”, with the values of 157.89 ± 32.81 and 15.37 ± 6.62 in ADHD and non-ADHD groups (p < 0.0001), achieved the best result (optimal cutoff, 42.39; accuracy, 91.03%; sensitivity, 90.25%; specificity, 91.86%; and AUC, 94.00%).ConclusionsThe proposed approach can be used to evaluate and classify patients into ADHD and non-ADHD objectively and automatically and can assist physicians in diagnosing ADHD.

Sustainable Approach of a Multi-Hazard Risk Assessment Using GIS Customized for Ungheni Areal Situated in the Metropolitan Area of Iasi

Sustainable Approach of a Multi-Hazard Risk Assessment Using GIS Customized for Ungheni Areal Situated in the Metropolitan Area of Iasi

Eye tracking and audio sensors to evaluate surgeon's non-technical skills: An empirical study

Non-Technical Skills (NTS) of medical teams are currently measured using subjective and resource-intensive ratings given by experts. This study explores if objective NTS assessment approaches with eye-tracking and audio sensors can measure teamwork and communication skills in surgery. Eight surgeons participated in a simulated two-phase surgical scenario developed to assess their NTS. Sensor-based audio, eye tracking and video data were collected and analyzed along with rating from the NOTSS scale. Different levels of communication were detected by the sensor data during the two phases of the simulated surgery. Sensor data detected leadership qualities among surgeons based on speech metrics, and eye tracking offered additional evidence about gaze patterns related to NTS. This objective approach to NTS measurement captured differences in communication in greater detail as opposed to a single collective rating obtained using current assessment tools.

Aromatherapy for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT Objectives: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) are common complications following surgical procedures. While drug-based treatments are standard, there is increasing interest in nonpharmacological alternatives, such as aromatherapy, due to potential benefits and minimal side effects. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of aromatherapy in preventing PONV. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases for studies published up to May 2023. The included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and nonrandomized studies of interventions that examined the impact of aromatherapy on PONV. The risk of bias was assessed, and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) approach was employed to evaluate the certainty of the evidence. Results: Eleven studies were selected for review, with eight RCTs included in the meta-analysis. Aromatherapy effectively reduced postoperative nausea severity (standardized mean difference [SMD]: −0.93, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −1.64 to −0.22; P = 0.010), but the reduction in vomiting episodes was not statistically significant (SMD: −0.81, 95% CI: −1.98-0.37; P = 0.180). Subgroup analysis indicated that ginger essence, lavender, and peppermint oils were particularly effective in managing postoperative nausea. However, due to significant statistical heterogeneity and potential biases in the studies, the results should be interpreted with caution. The certainty of the evidence, as evaluated by the GRADE approach, was low. Conclusion: Preliminary evidence supports the potential benefit of aromatherapy in reducing the severity of postoperative nausea. However, given the low certainty of current evidence, more rigorous and standardized research is needed. The safety, affordability, and potential benefits to patient comfort make aromatherapy a promising area for further research in postoperative care.

A Holistic Approach for Assessment of Global Industry 4.0 Maturity Level

A cogent transformation strategy in the paradigm of Industry 4.0 involves a thorough understanding of the present situation and desired future state. Based on a careful investigation of multiple global indicators and academic Industry 4.0 literature, this study proposes a model for evaluating the maturity level of nations. Nine maturity dimensions: Strategy,People and Culture,Product,Technology,Process,Cybersecurity,Governance, Organization, and Sustainability are chosen in the proposed maturity model considering overall socio-economic development as well as sustainability into account. The indicators used for evaluation are standard metrics. Observation shows a direct relationship between a country’s income level and maturity score. The top three performing nations were all from Europe. Europe also did exceptionally well in the sustainability dimension. On a sub-dimension basis, low maturity has been observed in Research and Development and Quality. The analysis demonstrates Africa’s low maturity across the board. In each category, more than 50% of the economies perform worse than average. Only 50 countries out of 122 performed better than the global average of 44.48, with Switzerland scoring the highest at 69.75. India scored 44.48 and ranked 48th as the top performer in the lower-middle-income group.

Interferometric Biosensor for High Sensitive Label-Free Recording of HiPS Cardiomyocytes Contraction in Vitro.

Heart disease remains a leading cause of global mortality, underscoring the need for advanced technologies to study cardiovascular diseases and develop effective treatments. We introduce an innovative interferometric biosensor for high-sensitivity and label-free recording of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) cardiomyocyte contraction in vitro. Using an optical cavity, our device captures interference patterns caused by the contraction-induced displacement of a thin flexible membrane. First, we demonstrate the capability to quantify spontaneous contractions and discriminate between contraction and relaxation phases. We calculate a contraction-induced vertical membrane displacement close to 40 nm, which implies a traction stress of 34 ± 4 mN/mm2. Finally, we investigate the effects of a drug compound on contractility amplitude, revealing a significant reduction in contractile forces. The label-free and high-throughput nature of our biosensor may enhance drug screening processes and drug development for cardiac treatments. Our interferometric biosensor offers a novel approach for noninvasive and real-time assessment of cardiomyocyte contraction.

Method for selecting viewpoints of architectural heritage landscapes

The selection of viewpoints is a crucial aspect in conducting visual impact assessments of architectural heritage. To address this issue, a quantitative viewpoint selection method based on GIS spatial analysis is proposed. The first step involves defining the factors that influence the selection of viewpoints for architectural heritage. Next, the city’s historical architectural areas are divided into units based on courtyards. Subsequently, a candidate set of viewpoints is constructed by extracting the skeleton lines and characteristic points of sub-regions. Finally, following the principles of viewpoint selection, the method achieves the selection of viewpoints for the visual impact assessment of architectural heritage. The Forbidden City is chosen as the practical area for implementation, and the results demonstrate that the viewshed coverage range in the architectural heritage area is as high as 96%. It represents that this approach for visual impact assessments of architectural heritage is more grounded.

A Zonal Approach for Wide-Area Temporary Voltage Quality Assessment in a Smart Grid

A Zonal Approach for Wide-Area Temporary Voltage Quality Assessment in a Smart Grid

Interventions for preventing haemodialysis dysequilibrium syndrome.

Dialysis dysequilibrium syndrome (DDS) refers to neurological symptoms usually seen during or after new initiation or following reinitiation of haemodialysis (HD) after missing multiple sessions. DDS is associated with death and morbidity. We studied interventions aimed at preventing DDS. To evaluate the benefits and harms of different types of interventions for preventing DDS. We contacted the information specialist and searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies up to 8 May 2024 using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Register were identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) Search Portal, and ClinicalTrials.gov. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared any intervention against standard care, including individuals initiated on HD, regardless of age. Two authors independently determined study eligibility, assessed quality and extracted data. Data were collected on methods, interventions, participants, and outcomes (DDS incidence, severe DDS, death, adverse events). Risk ratios (RR) and confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (ROB2) tool. Confidence in the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. We included two RCTs, enrolling 32 adult participants. Interventions included were slow dialysis, sodium modelling, standard sodium dialysate, and high sodium dialysate. The risk of bias was of some concern to high risk of bias in both studies. Slow dialysis compared to sodium modelling (1 study, 15 participants) may result in little to no difference in DDS, severe DDS, and death (low certainty evidence) and has uncertain effects on adverse events (RR 1.33, 95% CI 0.15 to 11.64; very low certainty evidence). Standard sodium dialysate compared to high sodium dialysate (1 study, 17 participants) has uncertain effects on the incidence of DDS (RR 0.07, 95% CI 0.00 to 1.12), severe DDS (RR 0.47, 95% CI 0.02 to 10.32), and adverse events (RR 0.29, 95% CI 0.08 to 1.02) (very low certainty evidence). In HD patients, sodium modelling, compared to slow dialysis, may result in little to no difference in DDS and death (low certainty evidence) and has uncertain effects on adverse events (very low certainty evidence). The evidence is very uncertain for the effect of high-sodium dialysate and standard sodium dialysate on DDS, death and adverse events (very low certainty evidence).

Hypersexuality in neurological disorders: A systematic review

BackgroundHypersexuality (HS) accompanying neurological conditions remains poorly characterized despite profound psychosocial impacts.ObjectiveWe aimed to systematically review the literature on HS in patients with neurological disorders.Study selection and analysisWe conducted a...