bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prioritizing Retrofits of Non-Piggable Transmission Pipelines Using an Internal Corrosion Structural Reliability Model
Authors: Langlois-Rahme Gabriel , Bandstra Daryl , Iacobellis Vincent , Safari Miaad
Published: December 2022

Internal Corrosion (IC) is a time dependent threat to pipelines that leads to wall loss due to a reaction between pipe material and the products or contaminants being transported. Certain vintage pipelines are not piggable, meaning that Inline Inspection measurement tools cannot be used to measure IC defects. Furthermore, being older, these pipelines are more susceptible to time dependent threats such as IC due to their longer exposure time. Operators often need to prioritize retrofits between different non-piggable pipelines, and the approach described in this study uses a structural reliability approach to estimate the expected frequency of failure for non-piggable pipeline segments and ranks them accordingly.

This model captures the range of potential IC defect severity by using in-line inspection data from different pipeline asset types (e.g., Well Laterals, Transmission) to build empirical distributions of defect length and depth corrosion growth rate (CGR). These asset types serve as an indirect measure of gas quality as evidenced by differences in the defect distributions and anomaly densities. By characterizing CGR as a distribution for different asset types and using the industry standard Growth-by-Rule method to model defect depth, the model considers both asset type and pipe age when predicting the defect depth distribution in the current year. This projected depth distribution is used with physical and operating parameters (e.g., diameter, WT, pressure) in a structural reliability model to estimate the probability of failure for the segment under consideration.

The structural reliability-based prioritization approach described in this paper provides a methodology to utilize physical and operating parameters of an un-piggable pipeline together with information from inspected pipelines to rank the expected severity of a given un-piggable line. These segment ranks were finally compared to ranks generated using other heuristic methods to quantify the benefits of this more detailed analysis methodology.
Use of Carbon Composite Repair Technologies to Reinforce Crack-Like Flaws in High Pressure Pipelines
Authors: Futch David B. , Limon Sergio , Alexander Chris
Published: December 2022

Pipe body cracking and seam weld crack-like flaws can be encountered on virtually all pipeline systems and are traditionally repaired via a cutout, grinding, or full-encirclement metallic sleeves. Although the effectiveness of steel repair sleeves is well established, they have drawbacks when repairing out of roundness pipe and they can require large pipe excavations to find a suitable location for in-service welding. Moreover, finding a clean in-service welding landing zone can be difficult for vintage line pipe steel which have a higher probability of laminations and the potential of having seam weld defects in low frequency ERW/EFW pipe. Furthermore, safety is also a concern when welding onto an operational pipeline. An alternative to repairing planar flaws is the use of non-weldable, light weight, wet-lay carbon fiber composite system. A composite repair system has distinct advantages as it can contour to most pipe shapes, resulting in shorter repair lengths (and therefore shorter excavations), and no welding is required. Composite repair systems have historically been used to reinforce areas of external corrosion and dents; however, their use has not been fully extended to reinforce crack-like flaws. A study was conducted where three carbon-epoxy composite technologies were explored as an effective repair option for pipelines with crack-like defects.

A total of 35 reinforced external axial cracks were tested in base material and the longitudinal weld in 1960’s ERW pipe samples. Each crack was initiated by fatigue from a machined notch. Pressure cycle testing from 10%–72% SMYS showed that the carbon composite repair systems tested can effectively repair axial external crack-like defects in the pipe base and seam weld. The repaired cracks in the ERW bond line ranged from 45% to 55% wall thickness deep and all survived 25,000 test cycles with less than 10% wall thickness of additional growth. The aggressive test pressure cycles correlate conservatively to 600 to 1,000 years of fatigue life for normal gas pipeline operations, which demonstrated a fatigue life extension of 3 to 5 times when compared to unreinforced defects that leaked below 10,000 cycles. The contents of this paper and associated insights are valuable to the pipeline industry in extending the use of carbon composite repair technologies to reinforcing cracks and seam weld crack-like flaws based on full-scale testing and metallurgical assessment of post-tested fatigue growth of cracks.
Don’t Crack Up - Composite Repair of SSWC
Authors: Futch David B. , De Leon Christopher , Whalen Casey
Published: December 2022

Composite repairs have been extensively qualified and used to repair external corrosion and dents encountered on pipeline systems. More recently, test programs have explored extending the use of composite repairs to reinforce crack-like indications, including those found in low-frequency electric resistance welded (LF-ERW) pipe. This paper addresses repairing selective seam weld corrosion (SSWC) using composite repair systems, which is yet another extension for composite repairs. Current approved techniques for repair of SSWC include full encirclement steel sleeves and mechanical clamps, however, there can be challenges when repairing out of straight or out of round pipe and they can require large pipe excavations to find a suitable location for in-service welding. Finding a clean in-service welding landing zone becomes more difficult when considering vintage line pipe steel which have a higher probability of laminations.

SSWC results in a groove centered on the ERW bondline, which typically has lower toughness than the surrounding pipe. While corrosion is active, the groove remains relatively blunt. Therefore, a SSWC repair must minimize or eliminate the potential for sudden fracture along the seam. The chosen repair should reduce or eliminate the likelihood of crack formation at the stress concentration at the base of the SSWC groove.

In this study, fabricated SSWC-like features were reinforced with commercially available composite repair systems on vintage ERW pipe and subjected to cyclic pressure. Results have shown that composites can sufficiently reduce stress to prevent crack formation, providing a permanent repair option. Further corrosion is also mitigated by creating a barrier between the steel pipe and environment.
Exploratory Data Analyses on CFRP Wrapped HDD Overbend Subjected to Combined Loading
Authors: Davaripour Farhad , Roy Kshama , Maghoul Pooneh
Published: December 2022

Horizontal directional drilling (HDD) is one of the popular pipeline trenchless construction techniques for sites where surface excavations and conventional trenching are not desirable. An integral part of the pipeline design and construction process is to perform stress analysis on the HDD overbends, which can be subjected to significant cross-sectional deformations due to stresses/strains imposed by thermal expansion and internal pressure. This paper proposes a novel approach to reduce the stress range in the HDD overbends using carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) wraps. Although this reinforcement technique is primarily used in the pipeline industry for repairing damaged pipes, there is a handful of recent studies that showed the promising effect of using CFRP reinforcement on undamaged pipe bends. A total of 259 finite element analyses are conducted with a different combination of pipe diameter to thickness ratio, CFRP length and thickness, fibre orientation, and internal pressure. An exploratory data analysis is then performed to demonstrate the impact of each variable on the maximum equivalent stresses imposed on the HDD overbend. The finite element results show that multi-directional fibre orientation leads to the highest reduction of peak equivalent stress on the HDD overbend. Besides, an increase in CFRP thickness results in a greater reduction of stresses on the HDD overbend. However, CFRP length does not have a noticeable effect on decreasing the stresses on the HDD overbend.
The State of Dent Screening and Shape-Based Assessments: Discrepancies to Consider
Authors: Polasik Steven J. , Wu Shanshan , Bratton Joseph P. , Dotson Rhett , Sager Ryan
Published: December 2022

Dents in buried pipelines either caused by third party mechanical damage or introduced during pipeline construction remain a leading contributor to reportable pipeline releases. API Recommended Practice 1183 (API RP 1183) provides a modern, shape-based fatigue life assessment of pipeline dents that can be incorporated into a pipeline operator’s integrity management program. Specifically, in API RP 1183, dent shape information is obtained by analyzing in-line inspection (ILI) caliper data and is expressed using characteristic lengths and areas. Once obtained, these characteristic lengths and areas define not only the dent restraint condition, but also various fatigue growth parameters.

API RP 1183 provides multiple screening techniques that are intended to identify dents that are non-injurious and therefore do not require additional detailed assessments or response actions. These screening techniques both increase in complexity and decrease in conservatism. Three screening processes provided in API RP 1183 are: (1) a table with lower bound, conservative estimates of fatigue life, (2) a pipe geometry and spectrum severity indicator (SSI) approach, and (3) a pipe geometry and operational spectrum approach. When combined with the shape-based fatigue life assessment, multiple analysis approaches are described.

However, as more dents are being analyzed with the methods from the first edition of API RP 1183, discrepancies between the screening methods and the shape-based approach are being observed. The aim of this paper is to discuss those cases where the conclusions from the screening processes and the shape-based assessment are inconsistent. In other words, there are cases where the screening process “passes” a dent indicating the dent is non-injurious and can be monitored while the shape-based assessment dictates the dent is injurious and a response should be taken. After discussing the inconsistencies in these cases, the authors make recommendations on how operators should use API RP 1183 in its current form.
All Optical Multi-Sensor Well Monitoring System to Survey and Monitor Gas Storage Operations
Authors: Lee Allan , Barclay Christopher , Xu David , Paulsson Bjorn , Wylie Michael , He Ruiqing
Published: December 2022

Paulsson, Inc. (PI) has partnered with Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and California Energy Commission (CEC) funded by the CEC grant PIR-19-001, to develop and apply cost-effective, all-optical Underground Gas Storage (UGS) reservoir surveying and monitoring technologies. This project was to determine the capabilities that fiber optic sensor technology may have in monitoring a natural gas wellbore and reservoir. The project goals and objectives include designing, prototyping, third party laboratory testing, building and installing a borehole all optical multi-sensor array into a well drilled at UGS facility. The optical sensor system has recorded a number of nearby small earthquakes which have provided the seismic sources that will be used for site characterization. The optical sensor array has also recorded large earthquakes in Japan, Peru and Fiji. The array will be used to characterize and monitor the gas injection and withdrawal operations for a number of months. The preliminary results of this project are discussed describing some potential applications for use.
Feasibility Journey - Repurposing Existing Natural Gas Pipelines to Transport Hydrogen – Natural Gas Blends
Authors: Esmaeely Saba N. , Finneran Shane , Podnar McMahan Tara
Published: December 2022

Transformation and decarbonization of existing energy systems are a key part of global energy transition efforts to meet targets set in the COP21 Paris Agreement. The feasibility of transitioning existing natural gas networks to hydrogen or hydrogen-natural gas (H2 – NG) blends, is being evaluated by many natural gas operators as part of their decarbonization strategy.

It is recognized that the transportation of hydrogen or blended hydrogen and natural gas presents potential challenges that should be considered and assessed before exposing an existing system to hydrogen transport. One of the first steps in such assessment is conducting a high-level study of the existing network feasibility for the transitioning purpose. Such high-level studies include the material and equipment compatibility of the network with H2 to determine an acceptable range of H2 concentration (H2%) that could safely be added to the blend with modest levels of investment and system modifications. The network feasibility is investigated from different aspects including material integrity, equipment accuracy and functionality, chemical compatibility, end use as well as storage and handling.

A thorough feasibility study assesses the entirety of the gas supply value chain, from injection to end-use compatibility and is based upon the operator’s hydrogen strategy and roadmap, which details the network capacity of handling hydrogen safely with a detail of necessary modifications.

This paper provides an overview of the factors that should be considered throughout a hydrogen feasibility assessment and addresses additional aspects of the overall hydrogen journey that may be evaluated along the way.
Overcoming Material and Test Variability Challenges in In-Situ Material Verification
Authors: Safari Loaliyan Soheil , Rizwan-I-Haque Intisar , Salamat Yasamin , Lacy Ryan , Mahmoudabadbozchelou Mohammadamin , Bellemare Simon , Powers Buddy , Eagar Tom
Published: December 2022

In-situ material property verification for oil and gas pipelines presents challenges and opportunities. One challenge is to limit undue increase in testing and maintenance costs which inherently occur if a generic conservative approach is used in the implementation of the new regulation requirements. This paper provides statistical data as well as case studies showing that measurements below the expected grade are not uncommon. Engineering analyses should allow for identifying outliers that present an actual risk while not overly increasing the industrywide maintenance efforts. Here, the data from in-situ material verification at more than one thousand field excavations are fit to a normal distribution curve. Further analysis is provided for data points where an expected grade was provided as part of the field project. From 491 pipes with provided expected grade, there are several data points below the expected grade, but only three samples show a deviation of more than 8% below the minimum requirement. For samples with an expected grade of X52, the distribution from nondestructive testing is very similar to published distributions of laboratory test results, which also showed measurements slightly below the expected grade. Further analysis on pipe populations provides insight into how comparative analysis may help build confidence in verifying grade.
Long Seam Characterization by Means of a Phased Array Based Inline Inspection
Authors: Haro Victor , Traeumner Katja , Jung Christina , Kopp Gerhard , Urrea M. Santiago
Published: December 2022

Pipelines can show imperfections at the longitudinal weld. These imperfections are often introduced by the welding process in the pipe mill and can differ from mill to mill and welding technology. Some of those imperfections are acceptable variations within the manufacturing specifications of the longitudinal seam, either on the internal or external weld trim or cap. Others may exceed acceptable tolerances and introduce a risk for safe operation. In addition, sometimes radial offsets, misalignment, peaking and flat spots can occur. All those variations can lead to signals wrongly classified as crack-like defects, leading to unnecessary repair activities or shading of real flaws.

A phased array based ILI tool can map and accurately measure localized wall thicknesses and surface variations. Phased array elements typically have a width of 0.4 mm (16 mils) to 0.8 mm (32 mils), which enables high circumferential resolution compared to the latest generation of traditional single sensor ultrasonic tools of 2 mm (79 mils), while the ILI industry standard has a circumferential resolution around 4 mm (158 mils). This increase in resolution can be used to reconstruct the inner surface, the wall thickness and outer surface of the long seam itself and the vicinity. This includes misalignment, the weld cap height and width, potential trim issues, and similar effects.

The authors will show and explain the robustness of the measurement methodology based on laboratory/test data and real-world pipeline inspection. Furthermore, the benefit of knowing accurately the local seam wall thickness will be discussed, as a higher wall thickness reduces the severity of defects. For a selected set of anomalies, it can be shown that a significant number that may exceed acceptable limits (actionable anomalies) can be treated as non-critical considering the ILI measured local WT.

Finally, the authors show how the gathered data can be used to build 3D models and perform simulations with different flaws to further optimize the inspection tool and utilize the phased array tool to its maximum benefit.
Nineteen Years of Successful Use of Austenitic Stainless-Steel Pipelines for Oilfield Water Services
Authors: Gareau Frank , Ilbagi Arash , Dew Brian , Collins Craig
Published: December 2022

The technology to cost effectively design, construct, operate, and maintain ASTM A269 TP316L/TP316 stainless-steel pipelines for oilfield saltwater service and freshwater service was developed between 2002 and 2004.

The first installations were austenitic pipe installed within discontinued, corroded carbon steel pipelines. Primary goals were to identify a cost-effective solution for a pipe-in-pipe application. After 2004, free-standing austenitic pipeline were installed in trenches. It was determined that coils of 316L/316 tubing in lengths of 2000 meters (6500 feet) were cost effective and readily available as line pipe material to simplify the field installation and joining practices. It was also determined that internal coatings, external coatings, and cathodic protection (except for risers) were not required for corrosion protection.

Highlights from the engineering assessments and the examination of 17 cut-out samples of in-service piping will be presented to demonstrate the suitability of 316L/316 for oilfield water applications. Boundary limitations for temperature, transported fluid composition, and soil composition were defined to ensure that corrosion and stress corrosion cracking would not occur. Mechanical design and joining methods and concepts were adopted from ASME B31.3 because existing pipeline codes (e.g. CSA Z662) did not, and currently do not address this material for oilfield pipelines.

Between 2002 and 2010, 90 pipelines for freshwater service and 55 pipelines for saltwater service were installed. A review in 2021 indicated that none of the installed pipelines have experienced leaks or failures associated due to in-service degradation. Two leaks have occurred during this 19-year period; one leak was attributed to installation wear and one leak was attributed to poor installation of a mechanical fitting. Material suitability was also verified via examination of cut-out pipe/fitting samples, and the use of stainless-steel corrosion coupons for 13 years. A comparison to other materials of construction indicates that the 316L/316 pipelines performed better.

This case history will address the successful design, construction, operation, and maintenance of austenitic stainless-steel pipelines during the 2002 to 2021 period.
Structured, Systematic Threat Based Approach to Evaluate and Improve Data Quality to Facilitate Digital Transformation
Authors: Tomar Pushpendra , Kruse Betsy , Hasan Samah , Kondratyuk Sergiy
Published: December 2022

Pipeline operators are rapidly and increasingly moving towards digital transformation in order to harvest efficiencies and achieve higher levels of reliability and safety. Fueled by advances in technology such as cloud computing and machine learning, data is considered a key asset, and pipeline operations are increasingly driven by information and analytics. However, successfully achieving a digital transformation toward reliable and high-quality data requires mature processes for obtaining, managing, evaluating, and continuously improving data quality.

During a review of pipeline risk assessment results, a pipeline operator (Operator) found that risk results for a particular pipeline were driven by the mainline coating type being listed as “un-coated.” However, further review of the records showed that the pipeline, in fact, was coated.

One of the Operator’s foundational principles is ‘data as an asset’. Thus, the Operator understands the critical impact of such data inconsistencies across many potential receptors, from financial impacts to public safety. Additionally, mature processes enhance confidence in prioritizing the “right work.”

Data quality is essential for the use of historical data, interoperability across various data systems, and generation of useful analytics. The data quality process maturity (Process maturity) evaluation aims to assess all processes, capabilities, and governance required for ensuring high data quality. As a result, the Operator decided to rigorously evaluate their data quality and the maturity of data quality processes.

The data quality assessment involved creating a comprehensive list of data elements required to assess a particular threat, prioritizing data elements, and documenting data storage by the source system. The data quality was then evaluated using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), establishing a baseline.

An organization’s Process maturity varies from level one (Initial) to level five (Optimized). The Process maturity of the Operator was assessed on five evaluation areas: Governance, Organization & People, Data Standards, Requirements & Metrics, Process Efficiency, Technology & Tools. Results of the evaluation led to the identification of actionable gaps.

The process, as developed, leverages guidance provided in ISO (8000-8) [3] for data quality assessment and DNVGL-RP-0497 [4] for Process maturity evaluation. This paper presents a step-by-step approach developed for and successfully employed by the Operator as applied to pipeline integrity threats.
Challenging Inspection Methodologies and Benefits – Recommended Scenarios for UT, MFL, and Robotics
Authors: Collins Mick , Lee Rod , Vasileff Calvin , Kobelak Michael
Published: December 2022

As pipeline and energy storage infrastructure worldwide continues to age, viable assessment options for critical assets are becoming increasingly important to ensure the stable delivery of energy. Many assets are complex and require creative inspection solutions.

This paper discusses robotic inspection technologies for pipelines and storage tanks that are challenging to inspect with traditional methods. We will provide an overview of the following:

• A pipeline inspection project in South Korea using robotic Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL) inspection technology. This unique MFL crawler technology can operate within a flowing gas environment, capable of crawling wirelessly into and out of a hot tap. The system has a full array of high-resolution MFL sensors, a live feed high-definition camera, and laser deformation detection.

• A multi-tank inspection program in the USA using robotic technology with ultrasonic (UT) sensors. This system can inspect a tank floor while the tank remains in service.

These projects and their unique challenges will be discussed to illustrate the importance of deploying the right technology for specific applications. We will also demonstrate that utilizing these systems reduced the overall engineering costs associated with traditional inspection technologies. Additionally, the benefits and values from understanding the integrity conditions of these critical elements of energy infrastructure will be shared to provide guidance on selecting appropriate inspection methods to acquire the breadth and quality of data that can assist operators in making informed decisions for their asset integrity programs. This ensures more reliable energy distribution, reduces environmental impact, and improves safety.

Operators should consider the type of inspection technology that will not only meet regulatory standards but provide all information required to contribute to a well-rounded asset integrity maintenance program. Inspection of those assets is key to ensuring that pre-emptive maintenance is possible, and the costs associated with adverse events avoided.
Know Your Enemy – Improvements in Managing the Threat of Hard Spots
Authors: Tran Khanh , Slater Simon , Edwards Jason
Published: December 2022

Operators of gas and liquid pipelines are expected to manage the threats associated with hard spots as part of their Integrity Management Plan (IMP). Over the past two years, a considerable amount of work has been completed to assess hard spots and characterize exactly what these features are, and how they can be managed. There is a significant body of data from ILI and metallurgical verification to develop a more complete understanding of the threat from hard spots. A hard spot is a localized increase in hardness compared to the surrounding base metal, which is defined in API 5L as an area larger than two inches in any direction and a hardness greater than 327 HBW [1]. Hard spots have been observed on EFW and DSAW pipes of various grades. The data collected confirms that there are different types of hard spots, which vary depending on the specific thermal cycles that create them. In the majority of cases, hard spots are introduced during the plate or pipe manufacturing process, and therefore can be related to specific pipe types, batches or manufacturers. It follows that understanding the types of pipes present within a pipeline system can help with susceptibility analysis and threat management. This fits with updated regulatory requirements driving the industry to verify material properties and attributes to support integrity management, when they are not evidenced by traceable, verifiable and complete (TVC) records. This paper discusses the processes used to assess, characterize and size hard spots, providing the information needed to make informed integrity decisions. Examples of different types of hard spots will be presented and discussed in relation to the various pipe types that can be differentiated using ILI-based material property verification. The paper will demonstrate how a close collaborative approach between operators and vendors can yield significant improvements in technology, processes and the integrity management plan.
Classical model of quantum interferometry tests of macrorealism
Authors: La Cour Brian R.
Published: December 2022

Macrorealism is a characteristic feature of many, but not all, classical systems. It is known, for example, that classical light can violate a Leggett–Garg inequality and, hence, reject a macrorealist interpretation. A recent experiment has used entangled light and negative measurements to demonstrate a loophole-free test of macrorealism [Joarder et al., PRX Quantum 3, 010307 (2022)]. This paper shows that such an experiment, while soundly rejecting macrorealism, may nevertheless be open to a classical interpretation. This is done by offering an explicit classical model of heralded photon detection in an optical interferometer with beam blockers. A numerical analysis of the model shows good agreement with experimental observations and consistency with both local realism and a rejection of macrorealism.
A two-dimensional effective sound speed parabolic equation model for infrasound propagation with ground topography
Authors: Waxler Roger , Hetzer Claus H. , Assink Jelle D. , Blom Philip
Published: December 2022

A terrain capable parabolic equation (PE) propagation algorithm for long range infrasound propagation modeling has been implemented using Padé approximations for the various operator valued functions that arise in PE algorithms. In this work, the influence of the winds are captured by the effective sound speed approximation and propagation is restricted to the range-altitude plane. The ground topography is included by the addition of an impenetrable fluid below the ground surface. The impedance condition at the ground is handled explicitly, including both vertical and radial components. It is found that including terrain can have a large influence on long range propagation. In particular, reflections from a sufficiently steep slope can change the inclination angle enough to move the propagation path from one atmospheric duct to another.
Aqua-Plyometric Exercises-Induced Changes in Muscle Strength, Bone Mineral Properties, and Physical Fitness in Patients With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A 12-Week, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Elnaggar Ragab K. , Elfakharany Mahmoud S.
Published: December 2022

Purpose: To determine whether a 12-week, lower body-targeted aqua-plyometric (AquaPlyo) exercise program could improve muscle strength, bone mineral properties, and physical fitness in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was adopted and included 48 patients with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (age: 12–18 y). Patients were assigned to undergo either AquaPlyo exercises (AquaPlyo group, n = 24) or standard exercises (control group, n = 24). The outcome measures were assessed pretreatment and posttreatment and included concentric quadriceps peak torque, bone mineral properties (areal bone mineral density [BMD], volumetric BMD, bone mineral content, and BMD Z score), and physical fitness. Results: A significant posttreatment increase in the concentric quadriceps peak torque was detected in the AquaPlyo group compared with the control group (either at an angular velocity of 90°/s [right side: P = .016, left side: P = .025] or 180°/s [right side: P = .007, left side: P = .029]). Besides, a considerably greater improvement in the areal BMD (P = .0006), volumetric BMD (P = .027), bone mineral content (P = .002), and BMD Z score (P = .0004) was observed in the AquaPlyo group. Moreover, a remarkably greater rise in the physical fitness (P < .001) was revealed in the AquaPlyo group. Conclusion: AquaPlyo training can efficiently enhance muscle strength, improve bone mineral properties, and boost physical fitness in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
Accelerating the Detection of Bacteria in Food Using Artificial Intelligence and Optical Imaging
Authors: Ma Luyao , Yi Jiyoon , Wisuthiphaet Nicharee , Earles Mason , Nitin Nitin
Published: December 2022

A simple, cost-effective, and rapid method is desired to identify potential pathogen contamination in food products and thus prevent foodborne illnesses and outbreaks. This study combined artificial intelligence (AI) and optical imaging to detect bacteria at the microcolony stage within 3 h of inoculation.
Helicobacter pylori Chronic-Stage Inflammation Undergoes Fluctuations That Are Altered in
tlpA
Mutants
Authors: Johnson Kevin S. , Yang Christina , Carter J. Elliot , Worthington Atesh K. , Robinson Elektra K. , Lopez-Magaña Raymond , Salgado Frida , Arnold Isabelle , Ottemann Karen M.
Published: December 2022

Helicobacter pylori
colonizes half of the world’s population and is responsible for a significant disease burden by causing gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. The development of host inflammation drives these diseases, but there are still open questions in the field about how
H. pylori
controls this process.
Unusual presentation of carpal tunnel syndrome due toMycobacterium marinuminfection of hand
Authors: Pai G Mithun , Bhat Anil K , M Acharya Ashwath , Reddy Shreya Pulli
Published: December 2022

We report a case of a fisherman presenting with a rare and unusual carpal tunnel syndrome due toMycobacterium marinuminfection of the hand and wrist. The infection resulted in severe pain, paresthesia and restriction of movement in the hand.

Flexor tenosynovectomy, followed by histological and microbiological studies, indicated the presence of atypical mycobacteria. The patient was started on a combination antimicrobial therapy for 6 months. The patient regained full range of motion and returned to perform daily activities with ease.

Diagnosis ofM. marinuminfection of the hand is challenging as the presentation mimics other conditions and may have nonspecific histological findings. This atypical mycobacterium may also show resistance to commonly used antitubercular drugs. Hand surgeons should maintain a high index of suspicion ofM. marinumand adopt a multiteam approach to prevent delay in diagnosis for successful treatment.
Quantifying burden of intravitreal injections: questionnaire assessment of life impact of treatment by intravitreal injections (QUALITII)
Authors: Wang Rui , McClard Cynthia K , Laswell Stephen , Mahmoudzadeh Raziyeh , Salabati Mirataollah , Ammar Michael , Vannavong Jordyn , Aziz Aamir A , Ewald Amy , Calvanese Allison V , Lehman Erik B , Fried Sagit , Windham Victoria , Strutt Adriana , Saroj Namrata , Khanani Arshad Mohammad , Eichenbaum David A , Regillo Carl , Wykoff Charles Clifton
Published: December 2022

Aim

To quantify the areas of burden experienced by patients requiring repeated intravitreal injections (IVI) in the management of exudative retinal diseases.

Methods

The validated Questionnaire to Assess Life Impact of Treatment by Intravitreal Injections survey was administered to patients at four retina clinical practices across four US states. The primary outcome measure was Treatment Burden Score (TBS), a single score assessing overall burden.

Results

Of 1416 (n=657 age-related macular degeneration; n=360 diabetic macular oedema/diabetic retinopathy; n=221 retinal vein occlusion; n=178 other/uncertain) patients, 55% were women with an average age of 70 years. Patients most frequently reported receiving IVI every 4–5 weeks (40%). The mean TBS was 16.1±9.2 (range 1–48; scale of 1–54), and the TBS was higher in patients with diabetic macular oedema and/or diabetic retinopathy (DMO/DR) (17.1) compared with those with age-related macular degeneration (15.5) or retinal venous occlusive (15.3) (p=0.028). Though the mean level of discomfort was quite low (1.86) (scale 0–6), 50% of patients reported experiencing side effects more than half of the visits. Patients having received fewer than 5 IVI reported higher mean anxiety levels before (p=0.026), during (p=0.050) and after (p=0.016) treatment compared with patients having received more than 50 IVI. After the procedure, 42% of patients reported restrictions from usual activities due to discomfort. Patients reported a high mean satisfaction rating of 5.46 (scale 0–6) with the care of their diseases.

Conclusions

The mean TBS was moderate and highest among patients with DMO/DR. Patients with more total injections reported lower levels of discomfort and anxiety but higher disruption to daily life. Despite the challenges related to IVI, the overall satisfaction with treatment remained high.
Emergent universe: tensor perturbations within the CSL framework
Authors: Palermo Octavio , Ocampo Martin Miguel , Bengochea Gabriel R. , León Gabriel
Published: December 2022

We calculate the primordial power spectrum of tensor perturbations, within the emergent universe scenario, incorporating a version of the Continuous Spontaneous Localization (CSL) model as a mechanism capable of: breaking the initial symmetries of the system, generating the perturbations, and also achieving the quantum-to-classical transition of such perturbations. We analyze how the CSL model modifies the characteristics of the B-mode CMB polarization power spectrum, and we explore their differences with current predictions from the standard concordance cosmological model. We have found that, regardless of the CSL mechanism, a confirmed detection of primordial B-modes that fits to a high degree of precision the shape of the spectrum predicted from the concordance $$\Lambda $$
Λ
CDM model, would rule out one of the distinguishing features of the emergent universe. Namely, achieving a best fit to the data consistent with the suppression observed in the low multipoles of the angular power spectrum of the temperature anisotropy of the CMB. On the contrary, a confirmed detection that accurately exhibits a suppression of the low multipoles in the B-modes, would be a new feature that could be considered as a favorable evidence for the emergent scenario. In addition, we have been able to establish an upper bound on the collapse parameter of the specific CSL model used.
Music of the Spheres: Quantum Field Theory at the Introductory Level
Authors: Redmount Ian H.
Published: December 2022

Quantum field theory has formed the conceptual framework of most of physics for more than sixty years. It incorporates a complete revision of our conception of the nature of matter and existence itself. Yet it is rarely taught, or even mentioned, in introductory physics — from high school, college, and university survey courses through upper-division “modern physics” courses. This omission is not necessary: This paper describes an approach through which the fundamental concepts and consequent insights of quantum field theory can be grasped, building upon familiar notions from classical and quantum mechanics.
Topology and Geometry of the Third-Party Domains Ecosystem
Authors: Iordanou Costas , Papadopoulos Fragkiskos
Published: December 2022

Over the years, web content has evolved from simple text and static images hosted on a single server to a complex, interactive and multimedia-rich content hosted on different servers. As a result, a modern website during its loading time fetches content not only from its owner's domain but also from a range of third-party domains providing additional functionalities and services. Here, we infer the network of the third-party domains by observing the domains' interactions within users' browsers from all over the globe. We find that this network possesses structural properties commonly found in complex networks, such as power-law degree distribution, strong clustering, and small-world property. These properties imply that a hyperbolic geometry underlies the ecosystem's topology. We use statistical inference methods to find the domains' coordinates in this geometry, which abstract how popular and similar the domains are. The hyperbolic map we obtain is meaningful, revealing the large-scale organization of the ecosystem. Furthermore, we show that it possesses predictive power, providing us the likelihood that third-party domains are co-hosted; belong to the same legal entity; or merge under the same entity in the future in terms of company acquisition. We also find that complementarity instead of similarity is the dominant force driving future domains' merging. These results provide a new perspective on understanding the ecosystem's organization and performing related inferences and predictions.
Rethinking SIGCOMM's Conferences
Authors: Shenker Scott
Published: December 2022

In this short essay, I ask whether our current practice of highly selective conferences is helping us achieve SIGCOMM's research goals.
1
This requires first articulating what those goals are, and then evaluating our practices in relation to those goals. To no one's surprise, this essay contends that there is a significant mismatch between what I believe SIGCOMM's goals should be and what our current practices achieve. I then propose a radical restructuring of our conferences that would provide better alignment and, as an additional benefit, a stronger sense of community. However, I wrote this essay not to promote the specifics of a particular proposal, but to encourage our community to (i) engage in a thorough reexamination of how we organize SIGCOMM-sponsored conferences and (ii) seriously entertain the possibility of radical changes in our practices.
JPEG Column: 90th JPEG Meeting
Authors: Pinheiro Antonio
Published: December 2022

The 90th JPEG meeting was held online from 18 to 22 January 2021. This meeting was distinguished by very relevant activities, notably the new JPEG AI standardization project planning, and the analysis of the Call for Evidence on JPEG Pleno Point Cloud Coding.
Reminiscences of Juris
Authors: Kozen Dexter
Published: December 2022

I was fortunate to have been a student of Juris Hartmanis during the early years of the Computer Science Department at Cornell. Juris was a founding member of the department and its first chair.
SIGACT News Complexity Theory Column 115
Authors: Hemaspaandra Lane A.
Published: December 2022

Juris Hartmanis was so preternaturally wise and brilliant that in time people may find it hard to believe that someone so extraordinary existed in this world. Yet as I write this, three months to the day after Juris passed away, it still seems impossible that such a force of nature can no longer be part of this world.
Mechanism of Bismuth Stimulated Bottom-up Gold Feature Filling
Authors: Josell D. , Braun T. M. , Moffat T. P.
Published: December 2022

The mechanism underlying

Bi

3
+

-stimulated bottom-up Au filling and self-passivation in trenches and vias in slightly alkaline

Na

3

Au

SO

3

2

+

Na

2

SO

3

electrolytes is explored. The impacts of electrolyte components

Na

3

Au

SO

3

2

,

Na

2

SO

3

and

Bi

3
+

and potential-dependent kinetic factors on the rate of Au electrodeposition are quantified experimentally. Derived parameters are applied within the surfactant conservation Curvature Enhanced Accelerator Coverage model to simulate the filling of high aspect ratio trenches. It is observed that Bi adsorption accelerates the Au deposition rate with a non-linear dependence occurring around a critical coverage. Further, the impact of electrolyte composition is such that gradients of

Au

SO

3

2

3
−

and

S

O

3

2
−

derived from reduction of

Au

SO

3

2

3
−

during deposition accentuate deposition farther from the feature opening. These factors and surface area reduction result in Bi enrichment at the bottoms of filling features that localizes active deposition to feature bottoms. Ultimately, weakening of the concentration gradients and associated kinetics as bottom-up feature filling progresses reduces the Bi coverage on the growth front below the critical value and bottom-up growth terminates. Good agreement is observed with key experimental features including the incubation period of conformal deposition, transition to bottom-up growth, subsequent bottom-up filling and finally self-passivation as the growth front nears the field.
CNC Synthesis from Cellulose Macromolecule and Fabrication of PVA/TiO2/CNC Bio-Nanocomposite Thin Film for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Joseph Raj P. L. , Kalimuthu K. , Kulkarni Seema A. , Periyar Selvam S.
Published: December 2022

PolyVinyl Alcohol (PVA) based films with varying concentrations of Cellulose Nano Crystals (CNC) and Titanium dioxide (TiO2) have been prepared and characterised in this study to determine their applications in the biomedical field. Biophysical, microscopic and mechanical property characterization of the films - PVA/CNC/T0.5, PVA/CNC/T1.0 and PVA/CNC/T1.5 were performed. The CNC were extracted from pea peel waste fibres (PPWF) which are rich in cellulose macromolecule (Mol Wt > 5000 da) by adopting acid hydrolysis method. Through Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis, uniform distribution and successful incorporation of CNC and TiO2 in the films have been confirmed. From the X-ray diffraction pattern of the films, it could be noted that the crystallinity increased in the films with the addition of CNC and rutile TiO2 in the PVA. The tensile strength of the films also greatly improved with the CNC reinforcement and increase in TiO2 content in the films. Overall, the results of this study suggest that the PVA/CNC/ TiO2 films have the potential to find their application in biomedical devices, especially to be used as a footprint of an ultrasound transducer.
Shegan Mahuang Decoction May Reduce Airway Inflammation in Neutrophilic Asthmatic Mice by Improving the Mitochondrial Function of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Exosomes
Authors: Lu Hui-na , Fu Zhou , Chen Xia , Yang Ming-ming , Chen Yun-fang , Yang Li-li
Published: December 2022

Asthma is a common pulmonary disease mainly caused by the infiltration of neutrophils. There is a limit to the therapeutic effects of the available asthma drugs on neutrophilic asthma. Shegan Mahuang Decoction (SMD) is one of the representative traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescriptions for asthma, and it can effectively relieve the clinical symptoms of patients. However, the effect of SMD on the treatment of neutrophilic asthma remains unknown. In this study, a mouse model of neutrophilic asthma induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/ovalbumin (OVA) was established, and the effect of a modified SMD prescription on the model was evaluated. After treatment, SMD was demonstrated to be therapeutically effective on asthmatic mice via airway resistance detection and lung pathology and was able to affect cytokine levels in vivo. Further experiments verified that SMD regulated the expression of mitochondrial function proteins in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) exosomes. The results demonstrate that SMD confers a therapeutic effect on a neutrophilic asthma mouse model, and it may reduce neutrophil airway inflammation by regulating myeloid-derived regulatory cell (MDRC) function and airway exosome mitochondrial function.
The Identical External Reference Point Standardized to the Zero-Reference Level for Measuring Both Central and Jugular Venous Pressures: An Observational Study
Authors: Karmacharya Niraj , Bhattarai Madhur Dev , Pradhan Amita
Published: December 2022

Background. Studies report discrepancies between CVP and JVP measurements. The mid-thoracic plane (MTP) at the anterior fourth intercostal space level indicates the zero-reference level (ZRL) for venous pressure measurement, and the midaxillary line (MAL) at fourth intercostal space is a point near the ZRL in the supine position. JVP is usually measured from the sternal angle (SA) with further addition of 5 cm (JVP-SA + 5) and CVP in the supine position from MAL (CVP-MAL). However, no report has compared CVP measured from MTP (CVP-MTP) with CVP-MAL and with JVP from MTP (JVP-MTP) and JVP-SA + 5. Methods. We measured JVP-MTP and JVP-SA + 5 in appropriate reclining positions and subsequently CVP-MTP and CVP-MAL in the supine position blindly in 150 patients. We compared the pressures by Pearson correlation and Bland–Altman plots. Results. CVP-MTP and CVP-MAL demonstrated similar means (

p
=
0.129

), strong positive linear relationship (r = 0.908), and good agreement (near-zero mean difference) with each other. JVP-MTP was about 1 cm higher than JVP-SA + 5 (

p
<
0.001

). JVP-MTP displayed higher correlation coefficients and better agreements with both CVPs than JVP-SA+5. Correlation coefficients and mean differences of both CVPs with JVP-MTP were almost equal, about 0.83 and 1 cm, and with JVP-SA + 5 also almost equal, about 0.72 and 2 cm, respectively. Conclusions. JVP tallies better with CVP examined in the supine position when both are measured from MTP as the identical external reference point (ERP), and MAL can be used as MTP to measure CVP in the supine position. Our findings indicate the way to explore the matching of CVP and JVP to the full extent possible by standardizing their measurements from other identical ERPs to that from the zero-reference level MTP. Their further study in similar higher reclining positions from identical ERPs, such as MTP, MAL, and SA with the addition of higher numbers instead of 5 cm, is warranted standardizing other measurements to that from MTP.