bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pipeline Integrity Reliability Analysis Levels
Authors: Hassanien Sherif , Leblanc Len , Cuervo Javier , Cheng Karmun
Published: January 2019

Reliability engineering science is a mature discipline that has been used extensively in industries such as aviation, nuclear energy, automobiles, and structures. The application of reliability principles (especially structural reliability) in oil and gas transmission pipelines is still an active area of development. The advent of high resolution in-line inspections tools (ILI) facilitates a formal application/utilization of reliability methods in pipeline integrity in order to safely manage deformation, metal loss, and crack threats. At the same time, the massive amount of ILI data, their associated uncertainties, and the availability/accuracy of failure prediction models present a challenge for operators to effectively implement the use of reliability analysis to check the safety of integrity programs within available timeframes. On the other hand, approximate reliability techniques may affect the analysis in terms of both accuracy and precision. In this paper, a Pipeline Integrity Reliability Analysis (PIRA) approach is presented where the sophistication of the reliability analysis is staged into three levels: PIRA levels I, II and III. The three PIRA levels correspond to different representations of integrity uncertainties, uses of available validated/calibrated data, uses of statistical models for operating pressure and resistance random variables, implementation of reliability methods, and consideration of failure modes. Moreover, PIRA levels allow for improved integration of reliability analysis with the existing timelines/stages of traditional integrity programs, such that integrity data are updated as the integrity program progresses. The proposed integrity reliability approach allows for the delivery of safety checks leveraging all types of information available at any given point in time. In addition, the approach provides a full understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each PIRA level. Pipeline corrosion case studies are provided herein to illustrate how the PIRA Levels can be applied to integrity programs.
On the Use of Surrogate Models in Reliability-Based Analysis of Dented Pipes
Authors: Hassanien Sherif , Kainat Muntaseer , Adeeb Samer , Langer Doug
Published: January 2019

Pipeline dents lead to changes in the stress/strain state of the pipe body, making it more susceptible to integrity concerns. This susceptibility is especially prevalent in cases where additional stress risers such as crack and/or corrosion features interact with the dented region. While some guidance is available in codes, regulations, and industry best practices, there is substantial room for innovation and improvement to ensure pipeline safety. Existing explicit models are primarily based on experimental correlations and historical findings using simple parameters such as dent depth and location on the pipeline. Moreover, these models are subjected to a substantial uncertainty in both accuracy and precision. This paper presents a state-of-the-art methodology for analyzing dents and dents associated with stress risers through the use of finite element method (FEM) as a mechanical model and reliability analysis to address uncertainties associated with input variables. FEM is used to model the full geometry of dents and any interacting stress risers reported by inline inspection (ILI) to be incorporated into calculations of the internal stresses/strains within the feature. Theoretically, FEM and reliability analysis can be integrated through reliability-based stochastic finite element methodologies due to the absence of closed form mechanical models of dented pipes. However, these methodologies are computationally prohibitive and not suited/designed for frequent integrity analysis. This study aims at further advancing such integration by combining FEM with reliability science to account for pipe properties and measurement uncertainties in order to determine the probability of failure under different operating conditions using surrogate models. This provides the opportunity to more accurately assess the risk posed by ILI reported dent features. Herein, surrogate models refer to the response surface method (RSM) which is considered as a valuable tool for obtaining insight into the behavior of structural random systems at low computational costs. The proposed approach was applied focusing on a plain dent, a dent interacting with a corrosion feature, and a dent interacting with a crack feature. First Order Reliability Method (FORM) is used to evaluate the probability of failure/reliability using the resulting RSM non-linear limit states for each dent feature.
Advanced Pipeline Welding Technologies for Strain-Based Design
Authors: Wasson Andrew J. , Fairchild Doug P. , Noecker Fredrick F. , Macia Mario L. , Nissley Nathan E.
Published: January 2019

In order to meet the increasing worldwide energy demand, there is a need to economically develop remote oil and gas resources. Construction of pipelines is required to connect these resource locations to markets. Such pipeline routes may cross areas of large ground motions such as regions of active seismicity, discontinuous permafrost, and offshore ice gouging. All of these features can subject pipelines to significant longitudinal strains. For these conditions a strain-based design (SBD) approach may be required to maintain pipeline integrity.

Welding technology is a key component of pipeline construction. Significant pipeline construction cost savings are enabled with the use of higher strength steels (X80+). Higher strengths enable reduced pipe wall thicknesses, which reduces both weight and girth welding time. However, robust welding technology for high strength SBD pipelines remains challenging. Such applications demand welds with both high strength (>120ksi) and low temperature (−15°C) toughness, combinations that are at the limits of, or beyond, existing commercial technology. This paper discusses the development of an enabling welding technology which offers a superior combination of strength and toughness properties.

An iron-nickel (FeNi) martensitic weld metal with a refined mixed cellular microstructure has been developed as a promising high strength weld metal that can be applied for field pipeline construction. This paper describes how this technology has been applied to create welds for X80 strain-based pipelines requiring significant weld strength overmatch and superior ductile tearing resistance. The welding technology can also be applied to X70 grade strain-based pipelines where high toughness is required. This approach has been developed for mainline girth, tie-in girth, and girth repair welding scenarios. Welding procedures are discussed and examples of the mechanical properties achieved and calculated strain capacities are described.
Adapting Safety Culture Assessments to the Pipeline Industry
Authors: Maddin Kimberly , Shanks David A.
Published: January 2019

Safety culture is a concept which has garnered increasing interest within the pipeline industry in recent years. Made up of the attributes and values of a company as well as the perceptions and values of the individuals within it, safety culture reflects the organization’s commitment to safety. Improvement of an organization’s safety culture can result in a reduction in the frequency of undesired events.

The assessment of safety culture presents a number of challenges, including the appropriate selection of models and data gathering methodologies that provide measurable and repeatable results and address both personal and process safety; the development of action plans which drive change within the appropriate levels of an organization; and the measurement of improvement efforts and outcomes.

The objective of this paper is to share lessons learned and guidance based on experience conducting semi-quantitative safety culture assessments. This paper will describe: researching and selecting a safety culture assessment model; selecting, developing, and customizing the assessment methods (e.g. document review, surveys, interviews, and observations); undertaking the assessment itself; quantifying and analyzing the findings of the assessment; developing recommendations that improve safety culture; and considerations for the implementation of action plans to ensure continual improvement.

The guidance provided in this paper is intended to help organizations improve the safety culture at all levels of the business in order to advance both personal and process safety performance.
Effect of Block Valve and Crack Arrestor Spacing on Thermal Radiation Hazards Associated With Ignited Rupture Incidents for Natural Gas Pipelines
Authors: Rothwell Brian , Dessein Thomas , Collard Andy
Published: January 2019

A study was undertaken to evaluate crack arrestor and mainline block valve (MLBV) spacing distances beyond the limits defined in the 49 CFR Part 192 for Class 1 locations for the design of a 42-inch (1,067-mm) OD arctic pipeline. The study assessed whether an MLBV spacing longer than that required by 49 CFR Part 192 for Class 1 locations can provide a level of safety equivalent to that afforded by the spacing recommended in the code. This was accomplished by comparing the hazards in terms of the volume of natural gas released over time, the potential for damage to surrounding structures, and the life safety risk to personnel and the public. The analysis was performed using the software tool PIPESAFE (version 2.20.0), which was developed for a group of pipeline operators by Advantica Technology (now DNV-GL).

A full transient analysis of the flow inside the pipeline and through the rupture opening was carried out with automatic shut-off valve (ASV) closures simulated as boundary condition changes at the locations of the valves triggered by the local transient pressure. Gas outflow rates were fed to a structured flame model that calculates the temperature distribution within the flame and the radiant energy emitted and uses the latter to determine the incident thermal radiation field in the area surrounding the rupture, the associated hazard areas and the accumulated thermal radiation dosage over time. These results were compiled into contour plots of thermal radiation intensity for different times; plots of the total area within specific contours of thermal radiation intensity for different times; and plots of the total area within specific contours of accumulated dosage. The dosage-area curves facilitate a direct comparison of the various MLBV and crack arrestor spacing options considered within this study by providing a simple means to establish if the change in spacing causes a substantial change to the affected areas for dosages up to the limits associated with specific levels of lethality to humans and for piloted ignition of wooden structures.

It was found that valve spacing has a strong effect on the time at which closure begins to affect the outflow rate. The decline in flow rate after valve closure had significant influence on the thermal radiation field, but these effects only occurred at a relatively late stage. Increasing fracture length led to considerable changes in the shape of the thermal radiation field, but the total footprint within which casualties might be expected in the event of an ignited rupture release and the severity of injuries within the footprint are unaffected by valve closure under the assumed conditions. Similarly, the damage potential to surrounding buildings was unaffected by valve spacing, indicating that increased valve spacing could be implemented in remote, low population density areas without affecting safety.
Comparison of Calculated Crack Growth Values Using Unloading Compliance and d-c EP During SENT Testing
Authors: Hioe Y. , Kalyanam S. , Wilkowski G. M.
Published: January 2019

SENT testing has become increasingly important in the characterization of the base, girth weld, and HAZ structural integrity for pipelines that are operational in the low temperature regions, such as the arctic. While the SENB and CT specimens have been used traditionally in the fracture toughness characterization and assessment of pipeline materials and welds, the SENT specimen is better representative of the constraint behavior of surface cracks found in service. Further, the SENT specimen is closer in representing the ductile-to-brittle transition temperature region for the pipe operation.

For strain-based design, ECA, and stress-based fracture analyses of girth weld defects, SENT test results have been found to be more representative of the constraint of a surface crack in a pipe and hence better reflects the material toughness. Typically the CTOD as a function of crack growth is used in girth weld defect analyses, but J-R curves can be calculated at the same time. While several procedures for SENT testing (DNV, Exxon Mobil, CANMET) are currently used in the industry and are based on reliable constitutive behavior, plasticity, and fracture theories and experimental methods, more recently a British Standard (BS8571:2014) has been published. In these procedures, either the d-c EP method or the unloading compliance technique are used to determine the start of ductile tearing and crack growth to arrive at fracture resistance CTOD-R and J-R curves. This paper presents results from comparisons of crack growth predictions where in both techniques were used simultaneously when conducting the SENT tests. Other unique aspects of the comparative methodologies, pros and cons of each of the two methods, guidelines for fracture resistance curve development from SENT testing, and its impact on girth weld, HAZ testing are also discussed.
Long Term Structural Integrity Considerations for Abandoned Pipelines
Authors: Finneran Shane , Prewitt T. J. , Kaufman Joel
Published: January 2019

There has been increasing interest across the industry to better understand the possible long term risks associated with out of service pipelines. In Canada, the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association (CEPA), Petroleum Technology Alliance of Canada (PTAC), and the National Energy Board (NEB), have undertaken multiple studies to identify and assess the threats related to pipeline abandonment. [1][2][3]

The primary hazards typically identified across industry for pipeline abandonment are associated with long term corrosion degradation, potential for creation of water conduits, possible environmental impacts, and potential for pipeline collapse and associated soil subsidence. Unfortunately, little guidance is presently available to the industry for determining remaining structural capacity of a heavily corroded pipeline to establish likelihood, and possible timeline, of collapse, nor for determining possible subsidence magnitudes associated with large diameter transmission lines.

This paper presents a technical case study for an assessment approximating the remaining strength of an abandoned pipeline subject to long term corrosion degradation, considering both general metal loss, and randomized pitting and perforation growth. The work presented used a combination of finite element analyses, and existing industry models for determining load bearing capacity of an abandoned pipeline under varying levels of degradation.
On the limit of defect doping in transition metal oxides
Authors: Kumar Aravindh , Islam Raisul , Pramanik Dipankar , Saraswat Krishna
Published: January 2019

Transition metal oxides are being increasingly used in many applications like nonvolatile memory, contacts to transition metal dichalcogenide transistors and photovoltaics, and thin-film transistors, to name a few, because the conductivity can be tuned by defect doping. The mechanism of conduction through substoichiometric oxides is however not well understood. Earlier studies attributed the conduction in substoichiometric oxides to Poole–Frenkel emission. But the assumptions underlying the Poole–Frenkel model break down in thin dielectrics and when a broad range of temperature is considered. The authors model the conduction through substoichiometric nickel oxide (NiOx) using a kinetic Monte-Carlo framework based on trap-assisted tunneling (TAT), by studying devices made of metal/NiOx/Si stacks. Modeling the temperature dependence of I–V characteristics enables the extraction of the trap parameters, like trap ionization energy and trap relaxation energy. The authors study the effects of the UV/ozone treatment, which has been shown to reduce the resistivity of NiOx by orders of magnitude, as well as the choice of metal electrode on the trap properties. The high trap relaxation energy (∼1.6 eV) is identified as an important factor in limiting the effectiveness of defect doping in NiOx, because it hinders the carrier emission step of the TAT process. The relaxation energy is another design knob that can be used when screening oxide candidates for various applications.
Race/Ethnicity and Protease Inhibitor Use Influence Plasma Tenofovir Exposure in Adults Living with HIV-1 in AIDS Clinical Trials Group Study A5202
Authors: Bednasz Cindy J. , Venuto Charles S. , Ma Qing , Daar Eric S. , Sax Paul E. , Fischl Margaret A. , Collier Ann C. , Smith Kimberly Y. , Tierney Camlin , Acosta Edward P. , Mager Donald E. , Morse Gene D. , Bolivar Hector H. , Navarro Sandra , Koletar Susan L. , Gochnour Diane , Seefried Edward , Hoffman Julie , Feinberg Judith , Saemann Michelle , Patterson Kristine , Pittard Donna , Currin David , Upton Kerry , Saag Michael , Ray Graham , Johnson Steven , Santos Bartolo , Funk Connie A. , Morgan Michael , Jackson Brenda , Tebas Pablo , Thomas Aleshia , Kim Ge-Youl , Klebert Michael K. , Santana Jorge L. , Marrero Santiago , Norris Jane , Valle Sandra , Cox Gary Matthew , Silberman Martha , Shaik Sadia , Lopez Ruben , Vasquez Margie , Daskalakis Demetre , Megill Christina , Stroberg Todd , Shore Jessica , Taiwo Babafemi , Goldman Mitchell , Boston Molly , Lennox Jeffrey , del Rio Carlos , Lane Timothy W. , Epperson Kim , Luetkemeyer Annie , Payne Mary , Gripshover Barbara , Antosh Dawn , Reid Jane , Adams Mary , Storey Sheryl S. , Dunaway Shelia B. , Gallant Joel , Wiggins Ilene , Smith Kimberly Y. , Swiatek Joan A. , Timpone Joseph , Kumar Princy , Moe Ardis , Palmer Maria , Gothing Jon , Delaney Joanne , Whitely Kim , Anderson Ann Marie , Hammer Scott M. , Yin Michael T. , Jain Mamta , Petersen Tianna , Corales Roberto , Hurley Christine , Henry Keith , Bordenave Bette , Youmans Amanda , Albrecht Mary , Pollard Richard B. , Olusanya Abimbola , Skolnik Paul R. , Adams Betsy , Tashima Karen T. , Patterson Helen , Ukwu Michelle , Rogers Lauren , Balfour Henry H. , Fox Kathy A. , Swindells Susan , Van Meter Frances , Robbins Gregory , Burgett-Yandow Nicole , Davis Charles E. , Boyce Colleen , O’Brien William A. , Casey Gerianne , Morse Gene D. , Hsaio Chiu-Bin , Meier Jeffrey L. , Stapleton Jack T. , Mildvan Donna , Revuelta Manuel , Currin David , El Sadr Wafaa , Loquere Avelino , El-Daher Nyef , Johnson Tina , Gross Robert , Maffei Kathyrn , Hughes Valery , Sturge Glenn , McMahon Deborah , Rutecki Barbara , Wulfsohn Michael , Cheng Andrew , Bischofberger Norbert , Dix Lynn , Liao Qiming
Published: January 2019

AIDS Clinical Trial Group study A5202 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00118898) was a phase 3b, randomized, partially blinded equivalence study of open-label atazanavir/ritonavir or efavirenz, plus either placebo-controlled tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine or abacavir/lamivudine, in treatment-naive adults living with HIV-1, evaluating efficacy, safety, and tolerability. We report an analysis of the contribution of participant characteristics to the disposition of tenofovir plasma concentrations.
Discovery of a Thermostable GH10 Xylanase with Broad Substrate Specificity from the Arctic Mid-Ocean Ridge Vent System
Authors: Fredriksen L. , Stokke R. , Jensen M. S. , Westereng B. , Jameson J.-K. , Steen I. H. , Eijsink V. G. H.
Published: January 2019

Hot springs at the sea bottom harbor unique biodiversity and are a promising source of enzymes with interesting properties. We describe the functional characterization of a thermophilic and halophilic multidomain xylanase originating from the Arctic Mid-Ocean Ridge vent system, belonging to the well-studied family 10 of glycosyl hydrolases (GH10). This xylanase, AMOR_GH10A, has a surprisingly wide substrate range and is more active toward cellopentaose than toward xylopentaose. This substrate promiscuity is unique for the GH10 family and could prove useful in industrial applications. Emphasizing the versatility of AMOR_GH10A, its N-terminal domain binds to both xylans and glycans, while not showing significant sequence similarities to any known carbohydrate-binding module (CBM) in the CAZy database. Thus, this N-terminal domain lays the foundation for the new CBM85 family.
Bioprospecting of Native Efflux Pumps To Enhance Furfural Tolerance in Ethanologenic
Escherichia coli
Authors: Kurgan Gavin , Panyon Larry A. , Rodriguez-Sanchez Yesenia , Pacheco Eric , Nieves Lizbeth M. , Mann Robert , Nielsen David R. , Wang Xuan
Published: January 2019

Lignocellulosic biomass, especially agricultural residues, represents an important potential feedstock for microbial production of renewable fuels and chemicals. During the deconstruction of hemicellulose by thermochemical processes, side products that inhibit cell growth and production, such as furan aldehydes, are generated, limiting cost-effective lignocellulose conversion. Here, we developed a new approach to increase cellular tolerance by expressing multidrug resistance (MDR) pumps with putative efflux activities for furan aldehydes. The developed plasmid library and screening methods may facilitate new discoveries of MDR pumps for diverse toxic chemicals important for microbial conversion.
MicroRNAs of Epstein-Barr Virus Attenuate T-Cell-Mediated Immune Control
In Vivo
Authors: Murer Anita , Rühl Julia , Zbinden Andrea , Capaul Riccarda , Hammerschmidt Wolfgang , Chijioke Obinna , Münz Christian
Published: January 2019

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infects the majority of the human population and usually persists asymptomatically within its host. Nevertheless, EBV is the causative agent for infectious mononucleosis (IM) and for lymphoproliferative disorders, including Burkitt and Hodgkin lymphomas. The immune system of the infected host is thought to prevent tumor formation in healthy virus carriers. EBV was one of the first viruses described to express miRNAs, and many host and viral targets were identified for these
in vitro
. However, their role during EBV infection
in vivo
remained unclear. This work is the first to describe that EBV miRNAs mainly increase viremia and virus-associated lymphomas through dampening antigen recognition by adaptive immune responses in mice with reconstituted immune responses. Currently, there is no prophylactic or therapeutic treatment to restrict IM or EBV-associated malignancies; thus, targeting EBV miRNAs could promote immune responses and limit EBV-associated pathologies.
Emergent Subpopulation Behavior Uncovered with a Community Dynamic Metabolic Model of
Escherichia coli
Diauxic Growth
Authors: Succurro Antonella , Segrè Daniel , Ebenhöh Oliver
Published: January 2019

Escherichia coli
diauxie is a fundamental example of metabolic adaptation, a phenomenon that is not yet completely understood. Further insight into this process can be achieved by integrating experimental and computational modeling methods. We present a dynamic metabolic modeling approach that captures diauxie as an emergent property of subpopulation dynamics in
E. coli
monocultures. Without fine-tuning the parameters of the
E. coli
core metabolic model, we achieved good agreement with published data. Our results suggest that single-organism metabolic models can only approximate the average metabolic state of a population, therefore offering a new perspective on the use of such modeling approaches. The open source modeling framework that we provide can be applied to model general subpopulation systems in more-complex environments and can be extended to include single-cell-level stochasticity.
Neuromyelitis optica: an elusive cause of dysphagia
Authors: Cousins Oliver , Girelli Elena , Harikrishnan Sreedharan
Published: January 2019

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare neurological condition infrequently associated with dysphagia on initial presentation. We describe the case of a 54-year-old woman who presented multiple times to healthcare professionals with severe vomiting, followed by sudden profound dysphagia. Her diagnosis was elusive, initially attributed to achalasia cardia and subsequently to stroke. A dorsal medullary lesion was revealed on MRI of the brain, which involved and extended beyond the area postrema. The patient required percutaneous gastrostomy, and repeated aspiration pneumonia complicated her clinical course. After aquaporin-4 antibodies returned positive, a diagnosis of NMOSD was made and she improved with immunosuppression. We discuss the process of lesion localisation and aetiology determination, as well as the difficulties that this case presented. Our hope is that this report will facilitate earlier diagnosis in similar cases in the future.
Constipation with megacolon in a 36-year-old man: a rare presentation of MEN2B from Sri Lanka
Authors: Fernando Ashan Rabinath , Samarasekera Dharmabandhu Nandadeva , Bulathsinghela Rasika Pivithuru
Published: January 2019

Diffuse intestinal ganglioneuromatosis is a rare condition associated with MEN2B. It is also seen in conditions like neurofibromatosis type 1 and Cowden syndrome. This is a report of a patient who underwent total colectomy with end ileostomy creation for a megacolon. He was diagnosed to have diffuse ganglioneuromatosis on histological examination of the resected segment of colon. The definitive management of diffuse ganglioneuromatosis is to resect and anastomose.
Autoimmune myelofibrosis: a rare haematological involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Belfeki Nabil , Shankarasivam Gopinath , Declerck Damienne , Diamantis Sylvain
Published: January 2019

Autoimmune myelofibrosis is a distinct clinicopathological entity that occurs with autoimmune disorders. We report the case of a 44-year-old woman admitted with pancytopenia and clinical features of systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren’s syndrome and antiphospholipid antibodies syndrome. Bone marrow biopsy showed decreased global cells and an increase of reticulin fibres on argentic coloration, consistent with myelofibrosis. The JAK2 V617, Myeloproliferative leukemia (MPL) and calreticulin mutations were negative. The patient’s condition improved after treatment with hydroxychloroquine, vitamin K antagonists and prednisone.
Buried coin in the gastric mucosa
Authors: Tan Dominic Ti Ming , Phan Yih Chyn , Leung Edmund
Published: January 2019

A 29-year-old man presented to the Accident and Emergency department with abdominal cramping following ingestion of a 50 p coin 2½ weeks prior to presentation. He had not observed it pass in his stools. An abdominal radiograph confirmed the presence of the 50 p coin in his stomach. Subsequently, he had an oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD) performed with a failure to visualise the coin. 1½ weeks later, he returned to the department as he was still unable to observe its passing in his stools. A repeated abdominal radiograph and a CT of the abdomen and pelvis revealed that the coin was still in his stomach. A second OGD was performed once again with a failure to visualise the coin. It appeared that the coin had migrated into his gastric mucosa.
Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis with collapsing lupus podocytopathy as an unusual manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus with APOL1 double-risk alleles
Authors: Chokshi Bhavin , D’Agati Vivette , Bizzocchi Lilian , Johnson Beverly , Mendez Barbara , Jim Belinda
Published: January 2019

Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a potentially life-threatening syndrome caused by excessive immune activation. Secondary HLH has been described in autoimmune diseases. We detail the case of a 28-year-old African American woman who developed HLH in the setting of systemic lupus erythematosus with collapsing lupus podocytopathy superimposed on mesangial proliferative lupus nephritis class II. Genotyping for APOL1 risk alleles revealed the presence of double (G1/G2) risk alleles. Our patient achieved a complete renal recovery and resolution of HLH within 1 month of treatment with steroids and mycophenolate mofetil, highlighting the importance of prompt, aggressive therapy.
Albuminuria measurement in diabetic care: a multilevel analysis measuring the influence of accreditation on institutional performance
Authors: Ghith Nermin , Merlo Juan , Frølich Anne
Published: January 2019

Background

Studies assessing institutional performance regarding quality of care are frequently performed using single-level statistical analyses investigating differences between provider averages of various quality indicators. However, such analyses are insufficient as they do not consider patients’ heterogeneity around those averages. Hence, we apply a multilevel analysis of individual-patient heterogeneity that distinguishes between ‘general’ (‘latent quality’ or measures of variance) and ‘specific’ (measures of association) contextual effects. We assess general contextual effects of the hospital departments and the specific contextual effect of a national accreditation programme on adherence to the standard benchmark for albuminuria measurement in Danish patients with diabetes.

Methods

From the Danish Adult Diabetes Database, we extracted data on 137 893 patient cases admitted to hospitals between 2010 and 2013. Applying multilevel logistic and probit regression models for every year, we quantified general contextual effects of hospital department by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values. We evaluated the specific effect of hospital accreditation using the ORs and the change in the department variance.

Results

In 2010, the department context had considerable influence on adherence with albuminuria measurement (ICC=21.8%, AUC=0.770), but the general effect attenuated along with the implementation of the national accreditation programme. The ICC value was 16.5% in 2013 and the rate of compliance with albuminuria measurement increased from 91.6% in 2010 to 96% in 2013.

Conclusions

Parallel to implementation of the national accreditation programme, departments’ compliance with the standard benchmark for albuminuria measurement increased and the ICC values decreased, but remained high. While those results indicate an overall quality improvement, further intervention focusing on departments with the lowest compliance could be considered.
Effect of local anesthetic volume (20 mL vs 30 mL ropivacaine) on electromyography of the diaphragm and pulmonary function after ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bao Xiuxia , Huang Juanjuan , Feng Haorong , Qian Yuying , Wang Yajie , Zhang Qunying , Hu Huansheng , Wang Xianghe
Published: January 2019

Background and objectives

Diaphragmatic paralysis following supraclavicular brachial plexus block (SCBPB) is ascribed to phrenic nerve palsy. This study investigated the effect of 2 volumes of 0.375% ropivacaine on efficacy of block as a surgical anesthetic and as an analgesic and examined diaphragm compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) and pulmonary function before and after SCBPB.

Methods

Eighty patients scheduled for removal of hardware for internal fixation after healing of an upper limb fracture distal to the shoulder were randomized to receive ultrasound-guided SCBPC for surgical anesthesia with 20 mL (Group A) or 30 mL (Group B) 0.375% ropivacaine. The latency and amplitude of diaphragm CMAPs and forced vital capacity (FVC), FVC% predicted, and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) were measured before and 30 min after SCBPB.

Results

Block success as primary anesthetic in addition to analgesia was 81% in Group A and 91% in Group B. There were no obvious differences in the effectiveness of analgesia between the two groups. The mean time to onset of motor block was significantly longer in Group A (8.1±2.7 min) than in Group B (5.4 ± 2.8 min; p<0.05). The mean amplitude of the diaphragm CMAP was significantly lower in Group B than in Group A (p=0.03). The changes in FVC (Group A, − 8.1% vs Group B, −16.5%), FVC% (Group A, −8.0% vs Group B, −17.1%), and FEV1 (Group A, −9.5% vs Group B, −15.2%) from pre-SCBPB to post-SCBPB were significantly less in Group A than in Group B (all p=0.03).

Conclusions

The incidence rates of phrenic nerve palsy and diaphragm paralysis were reduced, and lung function was less impaired in patients who received 20 mL vs 30 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine without any differences in block success. Selecting a lower volume of anesthetic for nerve block may be especially beneficial in obese patients or patients with cardiopulmonary disease.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR-IND-17012166.
Ruthenium-catalyzed ring-opening reaction of a 3-aza-2-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-ene with amines — an unexpected mode of ring-opening
Authors: Tait Katrina , Koh Samuel , Blanchard Nicolas , Tam William
Published: January 2019

The ruthenium-catalyzed ring-opening reaction of a 3-aza-2-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-ene with amines was investigated. In the presence of an amine and a ruthenium catalyst, the N–O bond is cleaved, forming a ring-opened allylic alcohol product. Through a possible ruthenium-catalyzed redox isomerization, the allylic alcohol is transformed into a saturated carbonyl product. This unexpected mode of ruthenium-catalyzed ring-opening reaction of a 3-aza-2-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]hept-5-ene leads to the formation of a cyclopentanone derivative in moderate yields.
Behavioural and morphological changes in fish exposed to ecologically relevant boat noises
Authors: Mickle Megan F. , Harris Christopher M. , Love Oliver P. , Higgs Dennis M.
Published: January 2019

There is increasing concern about the effect of underwater noise on fish due to rising levels of anthropogenic noise. We performed experiments on the black bullhead (Ameiurus melas), a species with known hearing specializations and located within the Laurentian Great Lakes where there is considerable commercial and recreational boat traffic. We tested and compared physiology (baseline cortisol), behaviour (activity, sheltering), and morphology (ciliary bundles of hair cells) of bullhead to boat noise. At 140 dB re 1 μPa (−54.84 dB re 1 m·s−2), we saw clear behavioural effects in terms of both activity and sheltering levels despite no obvious morphological or physiological stress. Following both short- and long-period acute exposure to higher — but environmentally relevant — noise levels, bullhead were less active and sheltered more and also exhibited a decrease in ciliary bundles. These results suggest that there are sublethal effects of anthropogenic noise on fish behaviour and ciliary bundles, which may have direct implications on population health. Moreover, commonly used metrics such as stress hormones may not always offer the most relevant biomarker of the response to anthropogenic boat noise.
Conference reports
Authors: Rovatsos Michael
Published: January 2019

This section features brief reports from recent events sponsored or run in cooperation with ACM SIGAI.
AI policy matters
Authors: Medsker Larry
Published: January 2019

AI Policy is a regular column in AI Matters featuring summaries and commentary based on postings that appear twice a month in the AI Matters blog (https://sigai.acm.org/aimatters/blog/). Selected posts are summarized in issues of
AI Matters.
Epochs of an AI cosmology
Authors: Hughes Cameron , Hughes Tracey
Published: January 2019

We began the discussion about the educational benefits to the general public of a standard AI Cosmology in Volume 4 Issue 2 of "AI Matters". But the mere notion of such a standard immediately raises lots of questions. In this column, we only focus on a very narrow set of those questions: First and foremost: Is there an AI Cosmology? If in fact the notion of cosmology applies to AI, is there only one valid AI Cosmology or are there competing valid cosmologies? If there is only one valid cosmology, what is its structure? How far can we take an AI Cosmology analogy? Like our Universe, did AI have the equivalent of a Big Bang? Is the field or structure of AI expanding or contracting? In an interview with Nikola Danaylov, podcaster of Singularity.FM, the late Marvin Minsky, one of the early AI pioneers, suggested that the evolution of AI in the 21st century maybe be contracting or even stalled! We posit that an AI Cosmology would help to educate the general public about our research and work, and its impact on society. Internally, it would help us to fix the objects, structure, and dynamics of the field. A standard cosmological model would help us all distinguish spurious AI mythos, pseudo science, hype, and fake news from the genuine article. A true cosmology of Artificial Intelligence would help us fix its origins, understand its trajectory, and predict its fate.
Oral Plaque from Type 2 Diabetic Patients Reduces the Clonogenic Capacity of Dental Pulp-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Bordin Antonella , Pagano Francesca , Scaccia Eleonora , Saccucci Matteo , Vozza Iole , Incerti Noemi , Polimeni Antonella , Cavarretta Elena , Chimenti Isotta , De Falco Elena
Published: January 2019

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a major metabolic disease and a key epigenetic risk factor for the development of additional clinical complications. Among them, periodontitis (PD), a severe inflammatory disease ascribable to a dysregulated physiology and composition of the oral microbiota, represents one of the most relevant complications. Periodontitis can impact the structure of the tooth and likely the stem and progenitor cell pool, which actively contributes to the periodontal microenvironment and homeostasis. Modifications of the oral plaque play a key role in the etiopathogenesis of PD caused by T2D. However, to what extent the biology of the progenitor pool is affected has still to be elucidated. In this short report, we aimed to explore the biological effects of oral plaque derived from T2D patients with PD in comparison to non-diabetic patients with PD. Oral plaque samples were isolated from T2D and non-diabetic subjects with PD. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), derived from the premolar tooth, were conditioned for 21 days with oral plaque samples and tested for their clonogenic ability. Cultures were also induced to differentiate towards the osteogenic lineage, and ALP and osteocalcin gene expression levels were evaluated by real-time qPCR. Results have shown that the number of clones generated by DPSCs exposed to T2D oral plaque was significantly lower compared to controls (ctl). The multivariate analysis confirmed that the decreased clonogenesis was significantly correlated only with T2D diagnosis. Moreover, the effect of T2D oral plaque was specific to DPSCs. Indicators of osteogenic differentiation were not significantly affected. This study provides a new biological insight into the effects ascribable to T2D in PD.
Epigenetic and Neurological Impairments Associated with Early Life Exposure to Persistent Organic Pollutants
Authors: Grova Nathalie , Schroeder Henri , Olivier Jean-Luc , Turner Jonathan D.
Published: January 2019

The incidence of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases worldwide has dramatically increased over the last decades. Although the aetiology remains uncertain, evidence is now growing that exposure to persistent organic pollutants during sensitive neurodevelopmental periods such as early life may be a strong risk factor, predisposing the individual to disease development later in life. Epidemiological studies have associated environmentally persistent organic pollutant exposure to brain disorders including neuropathies, cognitive, motor, and sensory impairments; neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); and neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In many ways, this expands the classical “Developmental Origins of Health and Disease” paradigm to include exposure to pollutants. This model has been refined over the years to give the current “three-hit” model that considers the individual’s genetic factors as a first “hit.” It has an immediate interaction with the early-life exposome (including persistent organic pollutants) that can be considered to be a second “hit.” Together, these first two “hits” produce a quiescent or latent phenotype, most probably encoded in the epigenome, which has become susceptible to a third environmental “hit” in later life. It is only after the third “hit” that the increased risk of disease symptoms is crystallised. However, if the individual is exposed to a different environment in later life, they would be expected to remain healthy. In this review, we examine the effect of exposure to persistent organic pollutants and particulate matters in early life and the relationship to subsequent neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. The roles of those environmental factors which may affect epigenetic DNA methylation and therefore influence normal neurodevelopment are then evaluated.
Assessing Gait Stability before and after Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Katarzyna , Błażkiewicz Michalina , Wiszomirska Ida , Pietrasik Katarzyna , Zdrodowska Agnieszka , Wit Andrzej , Barton Gabor , Skarżyński Henryk
Published: January 2019

Background. It is known that cochlear implantation may alter the inner ear and induce vestibular disorders. Research Question. How does cochlear implantation influence gait stability? Material and Methods. An experimental group of twenty-one subjects scheduled for cochlear implantation underwent gait testing twice, on the day before cochlear implantation (BCI) and three months after cochlear implantation (ACI), using a motion capture system. A control group of 30 age-matched healthy individuals were also tested. Results. In the experimental group, the gait stability ratio (GSR) was found to improve in 17 subjects after implantation, by an average of 6%. Certain other parameters also showed statistically significant improvement between the two experimental group tests: step time (p<0.001), single-support phase walking speed (p<0.05), and center of mass (CoM) (p<0.05). Using the CoM results of the control group, we devised a stability classification system and applied it to the pre- and postimplantation subjects. After implantation, increases were seen in the number of subjects classified in interval II (strong stability) and III (weak stability). The number of subjects in interval I (perfect stability) decreased by 1 and in interval IV (no stability) by 4. Significance. (1) Although cochlear implantation intervenes in the vestibular area, we found evidence that gait stability improves in most subjects after the surgery, reducing the risk of falls. (2) We found statistically significant improvements in individual parameters (such as single-support phase time), in GSR, and in CoM. (3) Based on CoM results, we proposed a new rule-of-thumb way of classifying patients into gait stability intervals, for use in rehabilitation planning and monitoring.
Reconstructing Terrestrial Water Storage Variations from 1980 to 2015 in the Beishan Area of China
Authors: Yin Wenjie , Hu Litang , Han Shin-Chan , Zhang Menglin , Teng Yanguo
Published: January 2019

Terrestrial water storage (TWS) is a key element in the global and continental water cycle. Since 2002, the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) has provided a highly valuable dataset, which allows the study of TWS over larger river basins worldwide. However, the lifetime of GRACE is too short to demonstrate long-term variability in TWS. In the Beishan area of northwestern China, which is selected as the most prospective site for high-level radioactive waste (HLRW) disposal, the assessment of long-term TWS changes is crucial to understand disposal safety. Monthly and annual TWS changes during the past 35 years are reconstructed using GRACE data, other remote sensing products, and the water balance method. Hydrological flux outputs from multisource remote sensing products are analyzed and compared to select appropriate data sources. The results show that a decreasing trend is found for GRACE-filtered and Center for Space Research (CSR) mascon solutions from 2003 to 2015, with slopes of −2.30 ± 0.52 and −1.52 ± 0.24 mm/year, respectively. TWS variations independently computed from the water balance method also show a similar decreasing trend with the GRACE observations, with a slope of −0.94 mm/year over the same period. Overall, the TWS anomalies in the Beishan area change seasonally within 10 mm and have been decreasing since 1980, keeping a desirable dry condition as a HLRW disposal site.
The Impact of Repeating Endosonography with Confocal Endomicroscopy for the Diagnosis of Cystic Neuroendocrine Tumor
Authors: Haq Iqra , Krishna Somashekar G. , Patel Bhaveshkumar , Thambi-Pillai Thavam , Xie Chencheng , Odegaard Karah , Buohy Kimberlee , Atiq Muslim
Published: January 2019

Cystic pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors represent around 13% of all neuroendocrine tumors (Hurtado-Pardo 2017). There has been an increase in the incidence of cases due to improvement in imaging modalities. This is a case of a 68-year-old male with the incidental finding of a pancreatic cyst on CT. Initial Endoscopic Ultrasound with Fine Needle Aspiration (EUS-FNA) showed sonographic and cytology features suggestive of a pancreatic pseudocyst. However the cyst persisted with no change in size after aspiration leading to a follow-up EUS- FNA, which was combined with needle based confocal laser endomicroscopy (nCLE). The nCLE features were consistent with a cystic pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, which was later confirmed on histology after surgical resection.
Interleukin-1 Gene Variability and Plasma Levels in Czech Patients with Chronic Periodontitis and Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Borilova Linhartova Petra , Poskerova Hana , Tomandlova Marie , Bartova Jirina , Kankova Katerina , Fassmann Antonin , Izakovicova Holla Lydie
Published: January 2019

Recent studies have suggested a bidirectional relationship between chronic periodontitis (CP) and diabetes mellitus (DM). Immunoregulatory factors such as cytokines play an important role in etiopathogenesis of both diseases. The aim of this study was to analyze variability in interleukin-1 (IL-1) gene cluster and IL-1βplasma levels in patients with CP, DM, and a combination of both diseases. A total of 1016 individuals participating in this case-control study—225 healthy controls, 264 patients with CP, 132 with type 1 diabetes (T1DM), and 395 patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM)—were genotyped using methods based on polymerase chain reaction forIL-1gene polymorphisms (IL-1A(−889C/T, rs1800587),IL-1B(+3953C/T, rs1143634), andIL-1RN(gene for IL-1 receptor antagonist, IL-1RA, 86 bp tandem repeats in intron 2)). Levels of IL-1βwere measured by Luminex methods in subgroups of controls, CP, T1DM + CP, and T2DM + CP subjects. Although no significant associations were found in the genotype and allele frequencies ofIL-1A(−889C/T), significant differences in the allele frequencies ofIL-1B(+3953C/T) were observed between controls and CP patients (P<0.05). In T1DM patients,IL-1RN∗S“short” allele andIL-1RN12 genotype were significantly less frequent than those in controls (P<0.01). In haplotype analysis, TTL haplotype decreased the risk of CP development (P<0.01), whereas CCS and CTL haplotypes (P<0.01andP<0.05) were associated with T1DM. Although IL-1βlevels were measured significantly higher in mononuclear cells after stimulation by mitogens, HSP70, or selected periodontal bacteria than in unstimulated cells,IL-1genotypes did not correlate with circulating IL-1βlevels. In the Czech population, significant associations between theIL-1Bpolymorphism with CP and theIL-1RNvariant with T1DM were found. Haplotype analysis suggests that variability inIL-1gene cluster may be one of the factors in the CP and T1DM pathogenesis, although single variants of these polymorphisms are not substantial for protein production.