bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time Lapse Wear Study Yields New Design Features to Improve the Erosion Resistance of Stand-Alone Screen Completions
Authors: Malbrel Christophe A. , Kale Rakesh
Published: February 2022

As operators focus on harvesting stranded reserves from existing infrastructures, specific technical challenges and ROI calculations are affecting sand control completion selection and putting screen design requirements in a new light. In-fill drilling and completion of sidetracked wells in depleted reservoirs are not favorable to gravel packing because low hydraulic frac pressures and small wellbores make conventional gravel packing operations incredibly challenging, if not downright impossible. Furthermore, gravel packing is selected when operators are looking for a long-term sand control solution warranted by significant reserves, something that is not necessarily present in brown field redevelopments. As a result, there is a need to improve stand-alone completions, and particularly improve the erosion resistance of screens that have been known to fail by hot spotting, where localized high flow situations erode the screen and lead to completion failure.

A series of time lapse erosion tests was conducted to identify critical damaging mechanisms and evaluate solutions, including mesh materials and design features to improve the erosion resistance of mesh screens. The test program included detailed examination of the test coupons in frequent intervals to identify wear features and trends over time. This approach to testing was instrumental in characterizing damaging backward eddies inside the screen and developing solutions to mitigate their impact.

From this test campaign, two new features were found to substantially improve screen erosion resistance. A hardening process to treat meshes commonly used in screens increased the Mean Time to Failure (MMTF) by 50%. Furthermore, a novel shielding concept aimed at preventing direct line-of-sight flow to the basepipe perforations (while maintaining the filter surface area and good flow distribution over the screen length) reduced mesh weight loss by 75% and maintained the original maximum pore size beyond the 72hour success criteria, for an estimated MTTF improvement well over 300%.
Matrix Stimulation Treatments Using Non-Corrosive and Environmentally Friendly Systems: A Decade of Experience Across a Variety of Romanian Fields
Authors: Panait Emil , Zecheru Mihaela , Dragomir Alexandru , Dos Santos Auribel , Lopez Fabian
Published: February 2022

Because of the challenges commonly associated with matrix acidizing, chelating agents are increasingly reinforcing their good reputation as standalone alternative treatments in oil and gas wells worldwide. Systems based on GLDA and DTPA have been extensively used in tens of limestone and sandstone Romanian reservoirs over the past decade. This paper offers useful insights, design criteria and best practices based on substantial field experience that led to remarkable productivity boost in more than 50 wells.

From deep and high temperature sour-wells, to shallower heavy oil plays. From inland oil producing assets to offshore gas condensate fields. Field applications included wells in sandstone, limestone and dolomite and placement involved foam and plain injection both via coiled tubing and bull-heading. The different stimulation campaigns involved a comprehensive laboratory evaluation, structured damage assessment followed by detailed treatment designs and execution. Experiments included both core-flood tests through limestone cores at 120 deg. C and solubility evaluation of mineral deposition at downhole conditions after scale characterization showed presence of sulphate-rich minerals like CaSO4 and BaSO4.

Results of experimental evaluation showed creation of highly conductive wormholes without signs of face dissolution despite low injectivity. Solubility of challenging scales achieved dissolution from 43% to 78% in formulations containing DTPA and GLDA. Fully compatible with well completion components including sensitive equipment and jewelry like ESP was found. Bottle tests using challenging heavy crude oil demonstrated not only complete compatibility without signs of sludge, emulsions or precipitates but it also exhibited unexpected benefits in viscosity reduction during lab evaluation and field implementation. Experimental evaluations were followed by field execution that covered over 60 matrix stimulation treatments across 10 fields using chelating agent-based formulations of Glutamic-Acid-Diacetic-Acid (GLDA) and Diethylene-Triamine-Pentaacetic-Acid (DTPA). The outcome was a substantial increase in wells productivity with 2-3 times of improvement (TOI) in average and 30 % reduction of downtime without safety, environmental or asset integrity issues.

Field results achieved and summarized in this paper demonstrate the efficacy of the methodology employed for productivity diagnosis. In addition, the numerous benefits of using chelating agents as standalone stimulation systems were corroborated. Described criteria and lessons learned represent a concise and useful tool to facilitate fluid selection and matrix treatment design in challenging field conditions with multi-functioning, non-corrosive, biodegradable and safe chemicals.
Rapid Curing Environmentally Degradable Polymeric Pill for Loss Circulation Treatment
Authors: Magzoub Musaab , Salehi Saeed , Hussein Ibnelwaleed , Nasser Mustafa , Ghalambor Ali
Published: February 2022

Loss circulation is frequent while drilling in naturally fractured or depleted reservoirs, which is usually associated with high non-productive time (NPT). Moreover, naturally pre-existing fractures may propagate when fluid pressure inside the fractures exceeds the minimum principal stress. The primary objective of this paper is to investigate the operational performance of a quick applying polymeric pill to treat severe loss circulation in highly fractured formations. To strengthen the wellbore in the presence of large fractures, proper size and concentration of loss circulation materials (LCM) are required. In this paper, a crosslinked polymer comprised of inorganic crosslinker (Aluminum-Acetate) is used to cure severe loss circulation by completely sealing fractured or high permeable formations. To achieve this, the project investigated the rheological behavior, mechanical properties, gelation mechanisms, and the filtration of the crosslinked polymer through an artificial fracture. The effect of concentration, temperature, pH, and salinity on the stability and gelation process was also assessed.

The rheological properties of polyacrylamide/Aluminum-Acetate (PAM/AlAc) in aqueous solutions, with concentrations varying from 1 to 3 wt.%, were highly affected by pH, time, and shear rates, while temperature changes have less impact. The Aluminum-Acetate has a broad operational window and can form a strong gel in temperatures ranging from 75°F to 260°F. Nanosilica (NS) in small quantities less than 1% was found to enhance the stability and strength of the polymer. The results revealed that the gelation time of the Aluminum-Acetate is controllable at pH conditions between 3.5 and 8.5, and the most stable gel was formed in the temperature range from 65°F to 212°F. Fracture sealing experiments demonstrated the ability of (PAM/AlAc) to form a strong plug with sealing pressure of up to 700 psi. In general, the Aluminum-Acetate reinforced with nanosilica has great potential applications in curing severe loss circulation in high fractured formations under a wide temperature range. This paper describes a detailed method of mixing and preparing stable and functioning polyacrylamide/Aluminum-Acetate pill for curing a severe loss of circulation. The new proposed aluminum-based salt was investigated as a potential environmentally friendly replacement for the conventional chromium acetate as crosslinkers for polyacrylamide. The paper provides a good understanding of the rheological, mechanical properties, and gelation characteristics, which are important factors affecting the spotting of these pills.
Completion Damage
Authors: Fleming Niall , Taugbøl Knut , Mathisen Anne-Mette , Braadland Ove , Kaarigstad Håvård
Published: February 2022

Formation damage has received significant attention over many years as one of the primary reasons for well productivity impairment, to the detriment of completion damage. The objective of this paper is to redress this imbalance and to focus on the central role that completion damage has on well productivity. Formation damage is a reduction in inflow performance due to damage of the near wellbore, while completion damage is an increased pressure drop effecting the lower completion, e.g., plugging of sand screens. A completion damage classification system is presented for the first time that relates this damage type to lower completion design throughout well lifetime. In addition, a review of some of the fluid qualification tests has been performed.

Fluid compatibility. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to determine the displacement efficiency from drilling to completion fluid in a candidate well, and hence the mixing ratio of drilling fluid to completion fluid to be used in compatibility tests. Furthermore, CFD simulations provided an indication of the likely shear rates occurring during displacement that were later used in the testing. Fluid stability. To determine the influence of sag on fluid displacement efficiency, CFD was used to model the worst-case situation where all the weighting agent came out of suspension.

Using the displacement efficiency and shear rates obtained, a new dynamic completion damage test was devised to determine the potential for screen plugging. Finally, an overview will be presented of how Equinor's approach to completion damage has changed because of this study, with increased focus on achieving a better balance in the evaluation of formation and completion damage.
Evaluating the Performance of Fluid Placement Approaches on Well Stimulation Results
Authors: Kumar Sanjiv , Davidson Brett , Abouakar Ahmed Hassan
Published: February 2022

Oil and gas production or water injection is sometimes hampered by wellbore scales and fills (i.e., inner well flow impediments) as well as formation damage (skin) that impedes flow. Formation damage may reside in the near wellbore region but could also extend deep into the formation. While the severity of the skin may vary from well to well the mechanisms of damage are generally mechanical, chemical, biological, or thermal in nature. Whereas a formation with no damage would have a skin factor of zero a well with serious damage may have a skin factor of 20 or greater. Formation damage impairs rock permeability which directly impacts oil and gas production or water injection operations hence the economics of the oil and gas field.

Well stimulations to address formation damage are accomplished through a variety of techniques but most commonly through chemical (acid) treatments to restore a wells productivity or injectivity. Often, due to permeability heterogeneity, common stimulation approaches do not provide maximum volumetric contact of treatment fluids with the formation. To maximize volumetric contact of the treatment fluid with the formation and across the entire completed interval, it is of utmost importance to employ a technique that can overcome the challenges of permeability heterogeneity to improve post-stimulation outcomes.
Investigation of Parameters Controlling Equivalent Circulating Density ECD in Managed Pressure Drilling MPD
Authors: Ashena Rahman , Bahreini Hossein , Ghalambor Ali , Sahraei Eghbal , Ahmad Loi Darab Majid
Published: February 2022

In Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD), it is possible to drill holes that simultaneously expose formations with narrow safe mud windows and with pore pressures close to the fracture pressures of other exposed formations with minimal formation influx or mud losses, and also minimal future formation damage during production. In Continuous Circulation Systems (CCS), as a sub-class of MPD, the dynamic or circulating pressure is adjusted to control formation pressures. Therefore, the key factor in success of CCS and prevention of unprecedented formation damage is Equivalent Circulating Density (ECD). This is because a small error in calculation of the ECD can cause a kick influx or drilling fluid loss. Therefore, there is a strong need to investigate the effects of various parameters affecting ECD, which is the objective of this work.

In this study, a section of a vertical annulus was simulated using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in 3-D and 2D to determine the effects of different affecting parameters on ECD. The seven investigated parameters in this section consist of DP rotational speed, eccentricity, rate of penetration (ROP), cuttings size, drilling fluid density, rheological parameters, and radius ratio (of drill-pipe OD to wellbore diameter).

The CFD simulation results show that the ECD of MPD may be significantly affected by the aforementioned parameters. The ECD shows to change due to unprecedented change of the aforementioned affecting parameters. This can potentially jeopardize the MPD drilling operation success. Among the parameters, in laminar flow, radius ratio Yield Point and ROP showed the greatest effect on ECD whereas in turbulent flow radius ratio, PV and mud density showed to have the greatest effect with the other parameters to have minimal effects.
Dimensionless Artificial Intelligence-Based Model for Multiphase Flow Pattern Recognition in Horizontal Pipe
Authors: AL-Dogail Ala , Gajbhiye Rahul , AlNajim Abdullatif , AlNaser Mustafa
Published: February 2022

Multiphase flow analysis attracts a lot of attention from researchers from diverse disciplines. There are several studies including experimental, theoretical modeling, and numerical analysis that were carried out to investigate the multiphase flow. However, many facets of multiphase flow are still unresolved owing to the extremely complex nature of the multiphase flow. The complex interactions of the different phases are leading to different flow regimes that are difficult to predict but essential for developing the computational model. The identification of the flow pattern is still a challenging task. One of the growing fields is the machine learning approach, which can address such complex problems. This study aims to use machine learning to develop models that can identify the flow patterns in multiphase flow.

To achieve the objective, a large set of experimental data was collected. The effect of fluid properties, such as density, viscosity, and surface tension, on the flow pattern was introduced by changing the fluid properties. The wide range of data was processed by applying a machine learning technique for predicting the flow regimes. The models were built using dimensionless parameters to extend their validity for various design and operational conditions. This approach enables to capture the main flow pattern as well as subcategories of flow patterns in the horizontal pipe. Comparison and analyses of the different machine learning tools were carried out to investigate classification of multiphase flow patterns.

The results showed that different artificial intelligence (AI) methods can predict the flow pattern in horizontal pipes with high accuracy. The results of using Reynold’s number for liquid (ReL) and gas (ReG) as an input to predict the flow patterns are deficient in accuracy for the support vector machine (SVM) and discriminant analysis (DA). However, the prediction capability of the model was improved by introducing Weber’s number for liquid (WeL) and gas (WeG) along with the Reynolds numbers (ReL and ReG). The improvement in the flow pattern prediction owing to the introduction of Weber’s number is speculated because of the capturing hydrodynamic phenomenon (inertia and surface tension) owing to change in fluid properties. It infers that capturing hydrodynamic phenomena affecting the flow pattern and their transition is essential for the prediction of flow patterns in multiphase flow.
Intraneural Ganglion Cyst of The Ulnar Nerve Causing Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Two Case Reports.
Authors: Casula Ilaria , Gras Mathilde
Published: February 2022

We present two cases of cubital tunnel syndrome caused by intraneural ganglia of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. This is a rare presentation for this type of ganglia, much more frequent at the peroneal nerve. An association between a history of trauma and the development of the synovial cyst is observed, therefore adequate preoperative imaging such ultrasound or MRI should be prescribed to better plan surgical treatment, in case of identified trauma. Drainage of the cyst and excision of its envelop under loupes magnification appears to be a correct and sufficient treatment when no articular nerve branch is found.
mecA-gene detection and MDR profile of S. aureus isolates from patients attending the Referral Hospitals of Amhara Reginal state, Ethiopia
Authors: Moges Feleke , Tamiru Tadele , Amare Azanaw , Mengistu Getachew , Eshetie Setegn , Dagnew Mulat , Feleke Tigist , Gizachew Mucheye , Abebe Wondwossen
Published: February 2022

Background: Staphylococcus aureus causes different types of human infections and has the ability to develop resistance to many antibiotics. There is a scarcity of data on the mecA gene and MDR profiles of this organism in developing countries, like Ethiopia. The aim of the present study is, therefore, to investigate MDR profiles and the mecA-gene profile of S. aureus from Referral Hospitals of Amhara Reginal State. Methods: Of the total of 110 isolates collected from Amhara Region Referral Hospitals, 70 MDR isolates were further processed for isolation of S. aureus mecA gene. Genomic DNA was isolated using SIGMA ALDRICH genomic DNA isolation Kit for Gram positive bacteria. Amplification of S. aureus mecA gene was done using amplicon size of 533 bp. Agarose gel electrophoresis was prepared with 1.5% agarose by TAE solvent and 0.5μg/mL of ethidium bromide. Electrophoresis was carried out for 1 hour and a half (7 Volts/ cm²) in 1X tris acetate EDTA (TAE) buffer. Data were analysed by using descriptive statistics.Results: The Majority of the isolates were recovered from patients aged less than 5 years, 51 (36.7%) and least from age greater than 60 years, 6 (4.3%). Most of the isolates were from blood, 61 (43.9%), followed by wound, 45 (32.4%). High resistance rate was observed in penicillin 81 (73.6%), followed by cotrimoxazole 78 (70.9%), ceftriaxone 76 (69%), erythromycin 66 (60%) and tetracycline 65 (59.1%). Phenotypically, considering cefoxitin as a surrogate marker, 38 (34.5%) of the isolates were methicillin-resistant. The overall MDR isolates were 92 (83.6%). The PCR amplification result of mecA gene was 14 (20%).Conclusions and recommendations: There is a high rate of MDR and MRSA isolates of S. aureus. PCR amplification result indicates 20% of MRSA isolates are mecA gene producers. Largescale study for detection of MDR strains of S. aureus including MRSA using molecular techniques should be encouraged in the Amhara region.
Case Report: A Rare Case of Brain Metastases in an Elderly Patient with Primary Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Rajpal Sharad , Taha Hash Brown , Kvascevicius Lukas , Burneikiene Sigita
Published: February 2022

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is an extremely aggressive cancer with a low survival rate. Common sites for metastases include the liver and lungs while brain metastases are considered extremely rare, especially in elderly patients. We present an elderly female patient who developed brain metastases 51-months after the initial diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and was treated with gross tumor resection, chemotherapy, and stereotactic radiosurgery. The treatment completely resolved her neurological symptoms but did not result in improved survival for this patient. The patient developed generalized tonic-clonic seizures and was diagnosed with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis and died 5.5 months after tumor resection.
Budget Impact Analysis of the Subcutaneous Infliximab (CT-P13 SC) for Treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the EU-5 Countries
Authors: Yoo Hyun Kyeong , Byun Han Geul , Caprioli Flavio , Fumery Mathurin , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Subramanian Sreedhar , Potter James , Jang Minyoung
Published: February 2022

Background: In 2020, the European Medicines Agency approved CT-P13 subcutaneous (SC) for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. This new mode of infliximab administration will reduce outpatient visits and costs of intravenous (IV) administration. This article describes a budget impact analysis of introducing CT-P13 SC to the EU-5 market for 5 years, from the healthcare payer’s perspective.Methods: A prevalence-based budget impact model was developed to examine the financial impact of CT-P13 SC. “World with” versus “world without” CT-P13 SC scenarios were compared, including the potential administration costs of IV administration.Results: Introducing CT-P13 SC in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) for 5 years resulted in cost savings of €42.0 million in the UK, €59.4 million in Germany, and €46.4 million in France and Italy, but increased budget expenditure in Spain by €3.8 million. For ulcerative colitis (UC), cost savings of €42.7 million in the UK, €44.9 million in Germany, €44.3 million in France, and €53.0 million in Italy occurred, but with no savings in Spain for 5 years. Cost-savings per patient was calculated by diving the net budget saving by number of treatment eligible patients. Maximum and minimum saving per patient per year ranged between €38.25 and €575.74 in CD, both from Germany, and €105.06 (France) and €647.25 (Germany) in UC.Conclusion: Healthcare payers in the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, but not in Spain, will make budget savings by using CT-P13 SC for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
Electron spin, nutation, and wave-particle duality
Authors: Light Gregory
Published: February 2022

We present a diagonal spacetime 4-manifold to model the wave-particle duality with two derivations of the energy ratio of wave to particle to be 1 to 3, by which we calculate the least time for an electron nutation as based on its quadrupole spin states in a 720-degree rotation of its associated electromagnetic wave in a model of Zitterbewegung.
Combined analysis of preoperative and postoperative lymphocyte-C-reactive protein ratio precisely predicts outcomes of patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Miyatani Kozo , Sawata Shohei , Makinoya Masahiro , Miyauchi Wataru , Shimizu Shota , Shishido Yuji , Matsunaga Tomoyuki , Yamamoto Manabu , Tokuyasu Naruo , Takano Shuichi , Sakamoto Teruhisa , Hasegawa Toshimichi , Saito Hiroaki , Fujiwara Yoshiyuki
Published: February 2022

Background： The systemic inflammatory response resulting from the complex interactions between cancer and the host plays an important role in cancer development. Recently, the lymphocyte-C-reactive protein ratio (LCR), which is a hematological and biochemical marker that reflects the systemic inflammatory response and nutritional status, has been reported to be associated with poor survival. Similar results were observed in patients with certain cancer types. However, these studies focused on the preoperative LCR, and thus far, no studies have reported the relationship between postoperative LCR and prognosis in patients with gastric cancer (GC).Methods： This study enrolled 455 patients with a histopathological diagnosis of gastric adenocarcinoma who underwent curative surgery at our institution between 2005 and 2018. The relationship between both the preoperative and postoperative LCR and the prognosis of patients with GC was retrospectively investigated.Results： Preoperative LCR showed significant correlations with tumor-related factors, such as tumor size, depth of invasion, and lymph node metastasis. By contrast, no correlation was observed between postoperative LCR and tumor-related factors. The 5 year survival rate was significantly worse in patients with low preoperative LCR than in those with high preoperative LCR (65.4% vs. 83.9%, p < 0.0001). Similarly, the 5 year survival rate was also significantly worse in patients with low postoperative LCR than in those with high postoperative LCR (67.0% vs. 84.1%, p < 0.0001). Furthermore, combination analysis of the preoperative and postoperative LCR revealed that the prognosis of patients with both low preoperative and postoperative LCR was worse in patients with GC (5 year survival rate was 52.0%). A multivariate analysis indicated that a low preoperative and postoperative LCR and age and lymph node metastasis were independent prognostic indicators.Conclusions： The combination of preoperative and postoperative LCR appears to be useful in predicting the prognosis of patients with GC.
Epigenetic Regulations, Motif and Pathway Identification of Gabaergic Neurotransmitter’s Chip Sequence
Authors: IA Shylesh Murthy , Bagchi Preenon
Published: February 2022

The next generation techniques has revolutionalized the biology era. In this work we are using Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChiP) technique on the ChIP–seq of Gamma-Amino Butyric Acid (GABA). GABA is implicated in several neurological disorders like alzheimers, rett symdrome, schizophrenia, etc. In this work, we have retrieved its chip-seq from SRA database, removed the PCR duplicates and finally identified the genome enriched region using the MAC2 call peak tool. Peak table was annotated to identify the genes and the corresponding pathways was identified from the KEGG pathway. This annotated peak table was used to identify the motifs present in the chip-seq of GABA.
Serum and Urine Uromodulin Levels in Patients Who Had Computed Tomography with Iodized Contrast Agent
Authors: Çankaya Erdem , Karaman Adem , Çelik Muhammet , DOĞAN Hasan , Uyanık Abdullah , Sevinç Can , Albayrak Bülent , Güler Muhammet Akif , Altunok Murat
Published: February 2022

BackgroundUromodulin is a protein produced in kidney tubule cells and found in the urine. Uromodulin levels detected in serum and urine provide information about renal tubule functions and reserve. MethodsIn this study, in individuals with normal kidney functions; the short-term changes in uromodulin levels in both urine and serum were evaluated before and after contrast agent administration 86 patients were included in the study. Serum and urine uromodulin levels were measured before and 24 hours after contrast agent administration. ResultsAlthough there was no significant change in glomerulifiltration rate before and after contrast agent administration (98.7±17.5, 100.8±18.5, p=0.1, respectively), serum uromodulin values decreased significantly (43.4±17.6, 24.8±17.9, p ≤ 0.05, respectively). Urinary uromodulin levels increased significantly (670±175, 805±340, p ≤ 0.05, respectively). ConclusionsSerum uromodulin level can be a biomarker that can be followed in ischemic kidney injury or after administration of nephrotoxic agents. Urinary uromodulin levels can provide information about renal susceptibility to nephrotoxic agents.
Seroprevalence And Risk Factors Of Coxiella Burnetii Infecting Cattle Raised In Pastoral Areas Of Narok, Kenya.
Authors: Watene Grace-Angeline , Aboge Gabriel , Gitau George , Nthiwa Daniel , Bett Bernard
Published: February 2022

Background: There are many prevalence and risk factor studies of infectious diseases such Q fever done in Sub-Saharan Africa but in Kenya, there are limited studies on Coxiellosis. The disease affects animal productivity and the ability to support livelihoods. The under-diagnosis of the disease has proven a challenge for effective control and eradication, since the epidemiology of the disease is still not clearly understood both in the animal and human health systems due to limited availability of technical and financial capacity to allow for significant epidemiological studies. The aim of this study was to determine the sero-prevalence and risk factors of C. burnetii in cattle in the Mara region, Narok County of Kenya. This study will provide relevant data for veterinarians and healthcare professionals that can be used for designing strategies for managing Q fever. Ultimately, this will aid in demonstrating that Q fever should not be neglected and should be included while controlling other zoonotic infections using the One Health approach. Results: A total of 589 sera samples were collected from 390 herds in 5 different villages from 3 zones selected based on the livestock-wildlife interactions and land use patterns in Mara Ecosystem in 2019. The seroprevalence C. burnetii was 1.9%. Significant risk factor on univariate analysis at animal level was bull ownership {OR=4.8 (CI 0.4-16.2) P-value 0.016}, while at at the herd level the significant factors were: animals grazing in shared areas between villages {OR 2.3CI 1.0-5.0) P-value 0.046}, mixing of cattle in different herds {OR 0.4 CI 0.2-0.9 P-value 0.029}, bought livestock previous year {OR 10.1 CI 1.3-75.8 P-value 0.025}, bull ownership P-value 0.003, history of abortion in the herd { OR 0.3 CI 0.1-10.9 P-value 0.018} and communal grazing had a borderline significance of (OR=2.2 P-Value). At the multivariable analysis bull ownership was the only significant variable {OR 5.2 CI 1.5-18.4) P-value 0.010). Conclusion: The study confirmed the previous exposure of the cattle in Mara ecosystem to the Coxiella burnetii indicating the potential risk to human transmission and qualifying the need to have better veterinary and public health interventions.
Genetic Characterization by SSR Markers of a Comprehensive Wine Grape Collection Conserved at Rancho de la Merced (Andalusia, Spain)
Authors: Cretazzo Enrico , Sanz Paula Moreno , Lorenzi Silvia , Benítez Miguel Lara , Velasco Leonardo , Emanuelli Francesco
Published: February 2022

Background: The IFAPA research center “Rancho de la Merced” (Jerez, Spain), hosts one of the oldest and widest grapevine germplasm banks in Europe, and is aimed at providing feasible solutions to deal with any agronomic trait by exploring its genetic variability and by means of association and DNA editing studies. In this work we focused on a wine and dual-use grapevine sub-collection that consists of 930 accessions.Results: Genetic analysis allowed to identify 521 unique genotypes. After comparing them with several databases, matches were found for 480 genetic profiles while the remaining 45 have not been previously described. Combination with clustering analysis suggested a total pool of 481 Vitis vinifera accessions that included some table cultivars. Several synonymies, homonymies and mislabeling have also been detected. Structure analysis allowed identifying six clusters according to eco-geographic cultivation areas and one additional group including non-vinifera accessions. Diversity analysis pointed out that Spanish Mediterranean varieties are genetically closer to oriental genotypes than to European varieties typical of oceanic and continental climates. The origin of Spanish varieties is discussed in depth considering our data and previous studies.Conclusions: Analysis of molecular variance partition confirmed a well-structured germplasm, although differentiation among groups had a much lower effect on genetic variability than differences within groups, which are strongly related to a very high heterozygosity. A core collection that covers all allele richness is proposed. It is constituted by about 13% of total accessions, and each cluster inferred by structure analysis is represented.
Computer Simulation And Modeling The Metal To Insulating Transition Of Liquid Mercury Via Pair, Empirical And Many-Body Potentials
Authors: Karimi Hedayat
Published: February 2022

In this study Monte Carlo statistical mechanics simulations were carried out to detect the metal insulator transition in of expanded liquid mercury by changing the static properties at microscopic scale. In the simulations pair, empirical, and many- body potentials governs metal–metal interactions in the canonical ensemble. Changes in structure are described in first coordination shell, while the thermodynamic properties in terms of residual internal energy, in wide of temperature range from 773 K to 1773 K. The results, reveal that the properties undergo significantly change at 1673 K, during the simulated heating process, which is in connection with the metal nonmetal transition in the liquid. The findings coincide with the experimental observation of this thermodynamics phenomenon. Notably, free energy of association that renders the system to this thermodynamic state is estimated.
Characterization Of Agrobacterium-Mediated Co-Transformation Events In Rice Using Green And Red Fluorescent Proteins
Authors: Li Lihua , Li Xin , Tian Xudan , Wang Lanlan , Zhao Jianhua , Zhou Jie , He Haiyan , Dai Liangying , Qu Shaohong
Published: February 2022

Biotechnologists seeking to develop marker-free transgenic plants or multigene transformants have established different co-transformation methods. To investigate the factors affecting the efficiency of co-transformation of T-DNA vectors via mixed Agrobacterium strains and to develop effective strategies for the selection of desired co-transformants, we utilized GFP and RFP as visual markers in rice co-transformation and tested the combinations of a drug-selectable vector (pGFP-HPT) and a non-drug selectable vector (pRFP) and of two drug-selectable vectors (pGFP-HPT and pRFP-HPT). Under similar conditions, the pGFP-HPT/pRFP combinations resulted in 70.9 % to 81.2 % of co-transformation frequencies while lower frequencies (56.6 % on average) were obtained in the pGFP-HPT/pRFP-HPT co-transformation. Based on the GFP/RFP segregation patterns, 45 % and 55 % of the pGFP-HPT/pRFP co-transformants contained linked and unlinked T-DNAs, respectively. Transgene transcription levels in the rice lines varied as revealed by their RT-PCR results, and tandem-linked T-DNAs were detected in most of the co-transformants, suggesting that the changed transgene expression might be related to the complicated T-DNA structures. It is thus necessary to screen the co-transformation events by evaluation of T-DNA structures and transgene expression. Therefore, the efficiency of co-transformation depends on the vector system and selection procedures and the marker-free transformation in rice can be improved by screening the gene of interest with large number of hygromycin-resistant calli. Since transgenic rice lines with desired T-DNA combinations can be selected using the GFP/RFP vector system, it is feasible to co-transform two T-DNAs carrying different plant genes for studies on gene interactions or additive effects.
The Gross Developmental Potential (GDP2): A New Approach for Measuring Human Potential and Wellbeing
Authors: Halfon Neal , Chandra Anita , Cannon Jill , Gardner William , Forrest Christopher
Published: February 2022

Many factors influence health and well-being of children and the adults they will become. Yet there are significant gaps in how trajectories of healthy development are measured, and the potential for leading a healthy life is evaluated. The Gross Developmental Potential (GDP2) is proposed as a new capabilities-based framework for assessing threats to thriving and understanding progress in achieving lifelong health and wellbeing. Moving beyond the GDP’s focus on economic productivity as a measure of progress, the GDP2 focuses on 7 essential inputs to lifelong health. The GDP2 capability domains include Health -living a healthy life; Needs-satisfying basic human requirements; Communication-expressing and understanding thoughts and feelings; Learning-lifelong learning; Adaption -adapting to change; Connections -connecting with others; Community -engaging in community. The project team utilized literature reviews, meetings with subject matter and technical experts, to develop the framework that was then vetted in focus groups in three diverse settings. The community leaders input resulted in refinements of the domains and how they might be applied. The GDP2 framework will next be used to develop specific measures and indices and to guide the development of community level GDP2 dashboards for local sensemaking
The deep squat test has limited clinical utility for diagnosing symptomatic femoral acetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS): A systematic review
Authors: Wood Simon , Newman Meredith , Batting Martha , Barker Karen
Published: February 2022

Purpose:Passive pain provocation tests (PPPT) are commonly used to diagnose FAIS but do not reflect functional restrictions. The deep squat test (DST) is a functional, weight-bearing test, but the clinical utility of the DST is unclear. Objective:To examine the validity and reliability of the DST in patients with confirmed FAISMethod:A Systematic Review registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020199249). Seven databases; CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, Medline, PubMed, SportDiscus and Web of Science, were searched up until December 2021. Data was extracted independently, and the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias. Result:1137 abstracts were found; 1119 were excluded after screening and 18 underwent full test review, excluding a further 17, with one meeting the search criteria. No studies reported the reliability of the DST. One study (n=78 hips) investigated criterion-based validity: pain on DST indicated a positive test and was compared with MRI and MRA measures of FAIS. QUADAS score demonstrated low risk of bias. They concluded the DST had a modest potential to identify those with FAIS, but low specificity suggested the test may yield a high number of false positives. Conclusion: Physiotherapists should use the DST with caution. Single study evidence supports its use, but despite its common use, limited information is available about the DST and further investigation is required.Impact:Further studies are needed to examine validity and reliability, including evaluating the DST with higher alpha angles to determine whether diagnostic utility is improved.
Evaluation of the Consequences of Double Ovarian Stimulation Through Shanghai Protocol in Patients With Poor Ovarian Respond
Authors: Zargar Mahvash , Pourjafar Zahra , Salemi Shabnam , Barati Mojgan
Published: February 2022

Purpose: This prospective study is aimed at assessing the consequences of double ovarian stimulation through Shanghai protocol in women diagnosed as poor ovarian responders (POR), compared with the conventional IVF. Methods: A total of 84 women diagnosed as POR were divided into two groups, including those who underwent conventional IVF protocol (N=42) and or Shanghai protocol (N=42). In Shanghai protocol, ovarian stimulation was firstly done in the early follicular phase and secondly in the luteal phase of the same ovarian cycle after the first oocyte retrieval. For primary ovarian stimulation, Letrozole 2.5 mg/day and Clomid 25 mg/day were administered for 4 consecutive days from cycle day 2 onwards.Results: After treatment, 1 to 5 oocytes were retrieved in 34 women (85%) underwent Shanghai protocol, which was significantly higher than its rate in the conventional IVF group [26(61.90%), p=0.02]. Subsequently, 33 women (82.50%) could develop 61 live embryos at the end of the second stimulation, which was significantly higher than its rate in another group [50%, P=0.002]. The rates of Metaphase II oocytes (60.82%) and high-quality embryos (93.44%) obtained during Shanghai protocol were significantly higher than their rates in conventional IVF (45.24% and 68.42%, respectively, p<0.05). Eventually, the clinical pregnancy success rate was significantly higher in women underwent Shanghai protocol (42.50%) than those underwent conventional IVF (19.05%) [p=0.03]. Conclusion: POR women underwent the double ovarian stimulation during Shanghai protocol-based IVF achieved the higher rates of high-quality retrieved oocytes, embryos, and successful pregnancy, compared with those who had underwent the conventional IVF.
Utility of Plasma Circulating Tumor DNA and Tumor DNA Profiles in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Chikuie Nobuyuki , Urabe Yuji , Ueda Tsutomu , Hamamoto Takao , Taruya Takayuki , Kono Takashi , Yumii Kohei , Takeno Sachio
Published: February 2022

Early recurrence detection of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is important for improving prognosis. Recently, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has been reported to be useful in early detection or treatment response determination in various carcinomas. This study aimed to identify the utility of ctDNA for predicting recurrent metastasis in patients with HNSCC. We collected pre-treatment tissues (malignant and normal tissues) and multiple plasma samples before and after treatment for 20 cases of HNSCC treated with radical therapy. ctDNA was detected in pre-treatment plasma in 10 cases; however, there were no significant associations with tumor recurrence and staging. During follow-up, ctDNA was detected in 5 of the 7 plasma samples of recurrent cases but not in the 13 recurrence-free cases. Moreover, there was a significant difference in post-treatment relapse-free survival time between the groups with and without detected ctDNA (20.6 ± 7.7 vs. 9.6 ± 9.1 months, respectively; log-rank test, p < 0.01). Moreover, for two of the five cases with ctDNA detected after treatment, ctDNA detection was a more sensitive predictor of recurrence than imaging studies. ctDNA detection during treatment follow-up was useful in patients with HNSCC for predicting the response to treatment and recurrent metastasis.
Multi-omics Revealed the Global Responses of Bovine Alveolar Macrophages to Mycobacterium tuberculosis /Mycobacterium bovis
Authors: Wei Rong , Chen Yuqi , Ma Huiya , Duan Yangbo , Ma Xueyan , Tan Lihui , Dong Jianjian , Jin Chenkai
Published: February 2022

The lipid composition performs important functions in interaction between macropha-ge and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB)/Mycobacterium bovis (MB). Current understanding regarding the lipid responses of bovine alveolar macrophage (BAM) to MTB/MB is quite limiting. The present study conducted lipidomics and transcriptome to assess alterations in BAM lipid compositions upon MB and MTB infection. We found that both MTB and MB induced glycerophospholipids accumulation in BAM, and MTB induced more alterations in lipid composition. MTB could affect the contents of various lipids, especially ceramide phosphocholines, polystyrene(PS) (17:0/0:0), testolic acid and testosterone acetate. Meanwhile, MB particularly induced accumulation of 1-alkyl,2-acylglycerophosphoinositols. Both MB and MTB suppressed the contents of palmitoleamide, N-ethyl arachidonoyl amine, N-(1,1-dimethyl-2-hydroxy- ethyl) arachidonoyl l amine, eicosanoyl-EA, and PS (O-18:0/17:0) in BAM. Additionally, transcriptome analysis revealed that only MTB triggered genes involved in immune signaling and lipid-related pathways in BAM. And MTB mainly activated genes CXCL2 and CXCL3 relevant to NOD-like receptor, IL-17 and TNF to further induce lipid accumulation in BAM, which in turn promoted the formation of foam cells. Altogether, the results of the present study provided evidence for changes inlipid metabolism of MTB/MB-attacked BAM, and contributed towards the detection and treatment of zoonotic tuberculosis.
Changes in water use efficiency and driving forces of the karst vegetation ecosystem in Southwest China
Authors: Shi Xinyu , Bai Shuang , Chen Wei
Published: February 2022

As the largest contiguous karst area of China, the southwestern karst area is a typical ecologically fragile area affecting local vegetation dynamics. Ecosystem water use efficiency (WUE) is an important factor outlining the vegetation’s ability to produce organic matter with a limited water supply. Therefore, it is important to determine WUE variation trends in this ecologically fragile region. In this paper, we used MODIS remote sensing datasets, meteorological data and land cover data to analyze the spatiotemporal changes in vegetation water use efficiency in the southwest karst region from 2001 to 2017. We also further quantitatively analyzed the impact of climate change and human activities on the spatial and temporal patterns of vegetation WUE in the study area. The main conclusions were as follows. (1) From 2001 to 2017, in terms of temporal characteristics, the interannual variation in WUE fluctuated greatly, ranging from 1.33 to 1.51 g C kg-1 H2O, with a multiyear average of 1.43 g C kg-1 H2O and an average rate of change of -0.0046 g C kg-1 H2O yr-1. In terms of spatial characteristics, areas with a higher WUE were concentrated in central Sichuan and northeastern Yunnan. (2) There were also certain differences in the WUE for different vegetation types. The annual average WUE of each vegetation type decreased in the following order: evergreen coniferous forest> evergreen broad-leaved forest> mixed forest> deciduous broad-leaved forest> cultivated land> deciduous coniferous forest> grassland> cultivated land and natural vegetation> shrub forest. (3) The vegetation WUE of 70.66% in this area was positively correlated with temperature. Additionally, 79.68% of the vegetation WUE was negatively correlated with precipitation. The relative contribution rates of climate change and human activities to the change trend in WUE were 15% and 85%, respectively. These results provide scientific support for local vegetation restoration and protection policies.
A Digital SIW-Slot Antenna Array
Authors: Li Haitao , Li Shanshan , Hou Bo , Zhang Xianli , Wen Weijia , Hu Chuandeng
Published: February 2022

The future satellite platform and 5G communication systems place high demands on antennas, in which the antenna should offer low-cost, lightweight, electronically steerable features. In this paper, the design of a digital slot antenna element based on substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) is proposed. The slot antenna element is realized by implementing PIN diodes across the gaps on both sides of the pad in the center of the slot antenna, to provide the switching freedom of the slot antenna element between radiating and non-radiating states. Besides, radial decoupling stubs are introduced into the bias line so as to reduce the leakage of the energy in the SIW structure. Applying a series of on/off states to the diodes produces various radiation patterns, thus wide range scanning is possible supposing that enough array elements are equipped. Finally, a digital SIW-slot array composed of 8 by 4 elements with tunable field programmable gate array (FPGA) circuits are fabricated and measured. The measured results validate the reconfigurable characteristics for the radiation pattern of the proposed digital SIW-slot antenna array without heavy engineering of phase shifter in conventional antenna arrays.
Greenland Monthly Temperature Reconstruction Over The Last 10,000 Years
Authors: Jiang Saiping , Ye Aizhong
Published: February 2022

Greenland is the biggest island in the world, and the area of snow and ice is the second largest in the world, which is only smaller than Antarctic ice sheet. Studying the temperature change of the island is important for ice sheet melting, especially the summer temperature. In this study, we reconstructed monthly temperature data over past 10,000 years using ice core data, meteorological observation data and European reanalysis data, and linear regression equation– residual correction method was used. And the results are as follows: The temperature of September to May showed a significant increasing trend at the 0.05 level during period 9700 B. C. E. ~ 2019 C.E., and the increasing rate is 0.0017 ~ 0.0058 ℃ every two decades. However, the temperature of June to August showed a significant decreasing trend, and the decreasing rate is -0.0035 ~ -0.0040 ℃ every two decades. The climate change can be divided into four increasing periods, namely, period 9700 B. C. E. ~ 9600 B.C.E, period 9400 B. C. E. ~ 7720 B.C.E, period 6240 B. C. E. ~ 6000 B.C.E, and 1800 C.E. ~ 2019 C.E., and three decreasing periods, namely, period 9600 B. C. E. ~ 9400 B.C.E, period 6340 B. C. E. ~ 6240 B.C.E. and 6000 B.C.E. ~ 1800 C.E., and one stable periods, namely, 7720 B.C.E. ~ 6340 B.C.E. And the differences of temperature change rate of different altitudes of the same period and month is not obvious. And the temperature change rate in Winter is larger than that in Summer. The dataset can provide data basis for the study of Greenland ice sheet mass balance.