bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-Time Monitoring of the Effect of CO2 on the Cement Sheath
Authors: Wagner Paul , Ravi Kris , Prohaska Michael
Published: June 2021

Global warming is one of the most significant issues the world is facing. Capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere or industrial processes and storing it in geological formations (carbon capture and storage, CCS) can help counteract climate change. Nevertheless, the interaction between well barrier elements such as cement, casing, tubulars, packers, and valves can lead to possible leakages. To accomplish successful carbon dioxide sequestration, injecting the carbon dioxide in its supercritical state is necessary. The supercritical carbon dioxide can corrode steel and elastomers and react with the calcium compounds in the cement, dissolving them and forming calcium carbonate and bicarbonate in the process. This carbonation can lead to channels forming on the cement-to-rock interface or cracking due to the carbonate precipitation, resulting in a loss of well integrity.

This study focusses on finding ways that enable the continuous monitoring of cement integrity, under in-situ conditions, in a lab setup. The construction of an autoclave, capable of withstanding supercritical conditions of carbon dioxide, facilitates the in-situ monitoring. This autoclave also makes CT-scans of the pressurized sample possible, as well as acoustic measurements, using state-of-the-art piezo elements. The first tests will establish a baseline using neat Class G Portland cement to verify the design and sensors. The set up consists of a rock core in the middle of the autoclave surrounded by a cement sheath. A prepared channel in the center of the core expedites the distribution of the carbon dioxide. Once the ability of the sensors to monitor the integrity is verified, different cement compositions and their interaction with supercritical carbon dioxide can be studied.

The experimental setup and the procedure discussed here closely simulate the downhole condition. Hence, the results obtained using this setup and procedure is representative of what could be observed downhole. The direction is not to remove the sample from the autoclave for analysis, as is the current industry practice, but to measure cement integrity under in-situ conditions over an extended period of time. Digitalization is powering the in-situ analysis in these tests.

The first two tests of this study, using the afore mentioned autoclave, investigated the carbonation behaviour of two Class G Portland cement slurrys, one with a low and one with a high slurry-density. The low-density slurry showed extensive degradation and even the high-density slurry showed carbonation, but only close to the sandstone core.

The results from this study can lead to the prevention of leakage of carbon dioxide to the environment and other formations, which defeats the purpose of carbon dioxide sequestration. These results should improve the economics of these wells as well as the health, safety, and environmental aspects.
Seed Extracts as Natural, Green, Non-Toxic Corrosion Inhibitors
Authors: Ng Jun Hong Clarence , Almubarak Tariq , Nasr-El-Din Hisham A.
Published: June 2021

Acid treatments are commonly used in the oilfield to remove inorganic scale or to stimulate formatio ns. These treatments typically consist of using hydrochloric acid (HCl), acetic acid, formic acid, or chelating agents. At elevated temperatures, these acids are highly corrosive and can cause severe damage to tubulars as well as downhole equipment. To reduce damage from these acids, corrosion inhibitors are added to the treatment solution.

Corrosion inhibitors used in the oil and gas industry are typically quaternary amines or sulfur-containing compounds. These compounds adsorb to the surface of the metal, thereby reducing contact between the metal surface and the corrosive substance. However, these corrosion inhibitors are damaging to the environment and harmful to human health. Alternative new environmentally-friendly corrosion inhibitors are also either toxic to the human body or face performance limitations at higher temperature field applications. To develop new environmentally friendly and non-toxic corrosion inhibitors for high-temperature applications, 15 edible seeds were tested as alternative sources of corrosion inhibitors.

In order to determine the inhibition effect of 15 different seeds, N-80 and S13Cr coupons were exposed to 15 wt.% HCl solutions at temperatures between 77-250°F with 2 wt.% of grounded seed added for 6 hours. In addition, a control solution containing no corrosion inhibitor was used to establish a corrosion rate for a base case.

This paper will show the results of such seeds and attempt to provide an awareness of natural seeds extract for use as corrosion inhibitors in conjunction with well acid treatments. It was noted that out of the 15 seeds, seeds 1 and 2 were found to perform the best at these conditions, exhibiting more than 90% corrosion inhibition efficiency. Seed 4 was observed to perform the worst, exhibiting only 16.8% inhibition efficiency. At 150°F, 2 wt.% of seeds 1 and 2 were tested with seed 1 achieving a corrosion rate of 0.00253 lb/ft2 while seed 2 was unable to provide sufficient inhibition with a corrosion rate of 0.153 lb/ft2. The control solution was found to have a corrosion rate of 0.371 lb/ft2 over the 6 hours at 150°F. Seed 1 was further tested at 200°F with the addition of corrosion inhibitor intensifiers and resulted in a corrosion rate of 0.00087 lb/ft2, while at 250°F, a corrosion rate of 0.00811 lb/ft2 was observed. The tests using S13Cr also showed that seed 1 worked well as a corrosion inhibitor for CRAs. The thermal degradation of seed 1 was also examined using NMR.

These results show a new naturally occurring, green, non-toxic, high-temperature applicable corrosion inhibitor that can be developed from edible seeds.
Field Application of Software Model and Wellbore Strengthening Materials for Drilling Depleted Reservoirs and Mechanically Weak Formations in Gulf of Suez
Authors: Mohamed Youssry Abd El-Aziz , Ahmed Ragab Saber , Al-Zahry Ayman Abd El-ghany , Moustafa Amr Ismail , Elnashar Radi Ahmed , Salama Ayman Salama , Ouda Abdalla Ahmed , Mohamed Ahmed Hamdy
Published: June 2021

Drilling operations might require increasing mud weight beyond formation's fracture gradient margin which may lead to downhole losses into formation and other potential problems resulting in Non-Productive Time (NPT). This paper describes successful application of wellbore strengthening software (WSS) to simulate formations’ strengthening process by increasing Hoop Stress while drilling depleted reservoir sand or mechanically weak formations. The software model takes into consideration well design, basic rock properties and in-situ earth stresses. The paper also defines design of mud formula and lab procedures verifying the designed wellbore strengthening materials (WSM) blend and successful application in field. Design and selection of mud formula are main pillars of successful formation strengthening procedure to match with induced fractures width. Unlike other software models that use generic particle size distribution (PSD) data, software in this study takes into consideration PSD of specific batches of WSM to simulate wellbore strengthening process and recommend the optimum WSM blend, concentrations. Based on mud formula design from WSS, lab tests were conducted to verify concentrations and selection of WSM and accordingly formulas were applied successfully for complicated drilling operations. Static and dynamic formation strengthening techniques were applied successfully in multiple wells. Based on software results and recommendations, Techniques’ application managed to strengthen weak formations up to 121% of original fracture gradient, decreased section drilling time by 20% which resulted in drilling costs reduction by up to 24.2 %. As a result of this successful application in many critical wells, WSS results are now integral to operator's well plan to enhance wellbore pressure integrity of weak intervals, in following drilling operations. The presented study is based on an innovative approach to strengthen weak and depleted formations in critical drilling operations using exact PSD data of WSM batches, formation properties and customized software model, an optimum concentrations blend can be selected to strengthen wellbore and hence it can be customized for every application where optimum formation strengthening is required.
Geosteering Optimization Using the Multi-Boundary Detection Technology in Rubiales' Field, Colombia
Authors: Manchola Jhon , Ballestero Dianys , Villasmil Jose , Nava Gerson
Published: June 2021

Horizontal drilling is part of the development plan for Rubiales field in Colombia, operated by the National Oil Company. By this, different geosteering technologies have been applied during the infill drilling campaign and, it has varied over time. The multi-boundary detection tool has successful results in terms of net sand percent increase, precise location, and cost decrease, related to drilling operations.

Some of the challenges for well placement are thin thickness channels with no lateral continuity (deposition environment), oil-water contact closeness, poor correlation with cutting samples, between others. The technology minimizes risks with the real-time resistivity inversion. This process generates a visual representation of the resistivity profile around the wellbore, including geometric definition, dip, and thickness estimation.

These inversion results are used to recommend trajectory adjustments while drilling. The complete geosteering experience in Rubiales with the new technology (more than one hundred sixty producing wells so far) has been classified into three main types of wells: lateral sections drilled in continuous sand intervals; lateral variation of resistivity; and wells with a change of prospective zone by channel discontinuity.

The implementation success is described by the net sand percentage increasing, around 16% compared with other technologies. The average drilling length was improved by 20% and the number of geological sidetracks concerning previous stages of exploitation reduced by more than 90%, without affecting the drilling rate. These factors, including the update of the sedimentological models, inclusion of new reserves, and the production increase, are part of the optimization plan.
Development and Execution of Heritage Petroleum Company Limited’s First Offshore Workover Campaign - A Case History of Successful Implementation of Performance Management
Authors: Mohammed Shazim , Persad Dale , Baksh Kirk
Published: June 2021

Heritage Petroleum Company Limited (HPCL) is the newest operating oil and gas company in Trinidad and Tobago and was vested and entrusted with the operation and management of all the exploration and production assets of Petroleum Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited ("Petrotrin"). Being driven by oil-based revenue meant that rig intervention projects had to be innovative, economically viable and practical to meet the company’s financial commitments. This paper presents the concepts and processes behind the development and implementation of HPCL’s Workover Scoping and Procurement Framework.

The offshore team recognized the need to frame the well review and workover candidate selection process as well as a procurement process that was both operationally accommodating and in accordance with public procurement regulations. This process would also have to be tested, since it was a new concept that was not practiced by Petrotrin.

The well review process involved defining reservoir deliverability and in-place volumes through static and dynamic modelling, establishing current well potential and deliverability via nodal analysis with installed completion designs, topside infrastructure conditions and flow restrictions.

The procurement process was achieved by identifying local resources and generating framework agreements for services and equipment. Job specific resources were tendered to ensure a transparent selection and award. The process also involved ranking the risks of all candidates. Economic analyses were performed to determine whether the financial indicators were positive to ensure viability of the campaign. A scorpion plot was also used to manage the performance of this framework during the campaign.

The result was a campaign consisting of 15 wells that was delivered on time and within the workover budget. Actual production gain was over 1700 BOPD as opposed to the expected gain of 1450 BOPD. Budgeted Net Present Value (NPV) and actual NPV was calculated to be US$ 9.42 million dollars and US$ 11.7 million dollars respectively. All resources were demobilized and removed from the offshore acreage to reduce risks and floating expense to the company at the end of the campaign.
A Strategic Approach for Producing a PCP Well with High Flowline Pressures in a Restricted System
Authors: Persad Melissa , Ramkhalawan Nigel
Published: June 2021

A progressive cavity pump (PCP) well (S-648) remotely located in Heritage's offshore field was unable to produce since October 2018 due to high flowline pressures. This paper describes the approach that was taken to produce the well and initiatives undertaken to resolve challenges.

Analysis of the fluid properties was conducted for input into a multiphase flow simulation software. The software was utilized to determine flowline restriction and a solution to reducing flowline pressures by viscosity reduction and flowline replacement. Since subsea flowline replacement is a costly and time-consuming exercise, a laboratory viscosity evaluation was done utilizing a chemical viscosity reducer. The results were inputted into the software to determine the percentage reduction in flowline pressure for producing the well.

The chemical solution was applied despite multiple challenges. Infrastructure on the location was a challenge with no pneumatic or 110V electrical supply to operate the chemical injection pump, limited space on the well deck for a chemical tank and no access to refill the chemical tank. Initiatives were taken to resolve these challenges and commission the injection. Upon commissioning of the chemical injection system, the flowline pressure reduced by approximately 70% and the well was able to restart and sustain production until this day. The initial chemical injection rate was optimized downwards for reducing the operating costs for the well without increase in the flowline pressure.

Testing facilities were not available for this well at start up to quantify production, however pump functionality checks were being done to assure that fluid was moving through the system. The pump is capable of a flowrate of 200 barrels per day. Assuming 80% pump efficiency, the initial estimate of production gain from this initiative was approximately 70 barrels of oil per day. When testing facilities became available in February 2020, the well tested production was 172 barrels of oil per day.

This approach can be utilized to start up and produce wells with high flowline pressures in an offshore environment within a short timeframe, where restrictions are present and modifying/replacing flowlines is not possible or cost effective.
A Potential Approach for Paraffin Control for Wells in South West Trinidad Oilfields Using Wax Inhibitors and Paraffin Solvent
Authors: King Joel George , Francis-Lacroix Kyethann S. , Orosco Chenelle
Published: June 2021

Paraffin deposition in production tubing and flow lines is a phenomenon that affects many oil producers. Once paraffin wax has precipitated there is a tendency to agglomerate peripherally to the production flow path which eventually leads to a sectional decrease in tubing or, even, flow blockage across production zones. The impact of paraffin deposition ranges from wellbore issues, flow assurance challenges to total production impairment. In many mature fields, paraffin remediation can be challenging when deposition occurs in the formation especially in near-wellbore regions of producing wells. Temperature loss at these locations induces wax crystallization and subsequent formation damage.

A mitigative approach to paraffin deposition in these areas can typically include the utilization of both paraffin inhibitors and paraffin solvents individually or in combination. However, as it pertains to paraffin remediation downhole, inhibitor placement in the formation or at near-wellbore has proven to be very challenging. This paper reviews the performance of two main chemical applications applied to address downhole wax deposition in a well from a South West Trinidad oilfield. The paper also discusses the strategy behind identifying the chemical type for the application and considerations for the placement of the chemical treatment to impact its intended target based on well data and well infrastructure.
Comprehensive Characterization and Mitigation of Hydraulic Fracturing-Induced Seismicity in Fox Creek, Alberta
Authors: Hui Gang , Chen Shengnan , Chen Zhangxin , Gu Fei , Ghoroori Mathab , Mirza Mohammad Ali
Published: June 2021

The relationships among formation properties, fracturing operations, and induced earthquakes nucleated at distinctive moments and positions remain unclear. In this study, a complete data set on formations, seismicity, and fracturing treatments is collected in Fox Creek, Alberta, Canada. The data set is then used to characterize the induced seismicity and evaluate its susceptibility toward fracturing stimulations via integration of geology, geomechanics, and hydrology. Five mechanisms are identified to account for spatiotemporal activation of the nearby faults in Fox Creek, where all major events [with a moment magnitude (Mw) greater than 2.5] are caused by the increase in pore pressure and poroelastic stress during the fracturing operation. In addition, an integrated geological index (IGI) and a combined geomechanical index (CGI) are first proposed to indicate seismicity susceptibility, which is consistent with the spatial distribution of induced earthquakes. Finally, mitigation strategy results suggest that enlarging a hydraulic fracture-fault distance and decreasing a fracturing job size can reduce the risk of potential seismic activities.
Determinants of Burundi fertility differentials: Evidence from the 2016-17 Burundi Demographic and Health Survey.
Authors: NIBARUTA Jean Claude , ELKHOUDRI Noureddine , CHAHBOUNE Mohamed , CHEBABE Milouda , ELMADANI Saad , BAALI Abdellatif , AMOR Hakima
Published: June 2021

Background
Although fertility control remains a major priority for the Burundian government and most of its partners, few studies on Burundi’s fertility determinants are available to guide interventions. Our study aims to examine factors influencing Burundi’s fertility differentials using the latest Burundi Demographic and Health Survey data.
Results
In our weighted sample size of 17,269 women aged 15–49, the total number of children ever born ranged from 0 to 15 children by women with a mean of 2.7 children (Standard deviation = 2.8). Factors such as residence in rural or in Central-Eastern, western and Southern regions, illiteracy/low level of education of both husband and women, women and husband agricultural professions, household poverty, male headed households, previous experience of infant mortality, early marriage and early childbearing, lack of knowledge of any contraceptive methods, non-use of modern contraceptive methods and desire of a large number of children were identified as factors associated with a high fertility rate in Burundi.
Conclusion
The results of this study suggest that actions aimed at promoting education, especially female education, and improving child survival, women’s socioeconomic status, agriculture mechanization and increasing number and scope of family planning services could help reduce Burundi’s fertility rate.
Performance Evaluation of SiC Powder Mixed Electrical Discharge Machining: A Case of Wire Cut Mode with Re-Circulating Molybdenum Wire
Authors: Saleem Muhammad Qaiser , Naqvi Maham , Khan Sarmad Ali , Mufti Nadeem Ahmad , Ishfaq Kashif
Published: June 2021

Review of the available literature on powder mixed electrical discharge machining (PMEDM) indicates, that most of the research has been done for “die sinking machining mode” whereas the “wire cut machining mode” has not received due attention despite being an important process variant. This work employs Silicon Carbide (SiC) powder mixed dielectric fluid for machining of AISI D2 in “wire cut” mode with re-circulating molybdenum wire (an economic and chemically stable proposition as tool). The effect of five process parameters (powder concentration, peak current, pulse on time, nozzle flushing pressure and stand-off distance) have been evaluated on surface roughness, kerf width, material removal rate and wire wear ratio using Taguchi’s approach. It is found that for surface roughness, higher current and low to moderate concentration levels (2 to 4g/l) deteriorate surface quality; higher values of pressure and stand-off distance are also seen to adversely affect it. For material removal rate, pulse on time as well as its interactions with powder concentration and current, are statistically significant. A higher pulse on with smaller and moderate powder concentrations (2g/l and 4g/l) reduces MRR. For wire wear ratio, current is the sole significant factor (PCR of ~ 65%). SEM analysis of the machined workpiece for the maximum MRR condition quantifies recast layer as ~ 19microns. An indirect comparison with the reported values for non-powdered EDM process indicates that for the similar wire (molybdenum), the use of SiC powder maintains the surface roughness and kerf values, for a much harder D2 material used in this work.
Association of Serum Fibrinogen and Plasma VEGF Levels with Tumor Characteristics and Treatment Response in Operable Breast Carcinoma.
Authors: Khowal Hemant Kumar , Yelamanchi Raghav , GUPTA NIKHIL , Goswami Binita , Jain Anju , Arora Mohinder Pal
Published: June 2021

Background and Aims:

A search for factors predicting the behavior of the tumor, its invasiveness, metastasis, response to treatment and prognosis is the primary focus of breast cancer research. The objective of the present study was to study the association of fibrinogen and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) with various parameters of breast carcinoma.
Materials and methods

A case control was conducted in which fibrinogen and VEGF levels were compared between cases and controls and also with various characteristics of breast carcinoma such as T stage, lymph node positivity, grade, lymphovascular invasion and receptor status. The effect of surgery of breast cancer on fibrinogen and VEGF levels was also studied.
Results

The levels of fibrinogen and VEGF were significantly higher in cases when compared to controls (p < 0.001). Increased fibrinogen level was significantly associated with higher grade of the tumor, lymph node metastasis and lymphovascular invasion. Increased VEGF level was significantly associated with higher grade and lymphovascular invasion of the tumor. After treatment there was a statistically significant fall in the levels of the above mediators (p < 0.001).
Conclusions

Serum fibrinogen and plasma VEGF levels were significantly higher in patients of breast carcinoma and had significant association with invasiveness of the tumor.
Influence of Oral Health on Frailty in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Aged 75 Years or Older
Authors: Ishii Masaki , Yamaguchi Yasuhiro , Hamaya Hironobu , Iwata Yuko , Takada Kazufumi , Ogawa Sumito , Imura Mitsuo , Akishita Masahiro
Published: June 2021

Background
Poor oral health conditions are known to affect frailty in the elderly. Diabetes is a risk factor for both poor oral health and frailty, and, therefore, oral health status may affect frailty in diabetic patients more than in the general population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of oral health on frailty in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes.
Methods
Patients with type 2 diabetes aged 75 years or older were included in this retrospective study. Eligible patients were surveyed by questionnaire for frailty, oral health status, and cognitive and living functions. Factors influencing pre-frailty, frailty, and individual frailty score categories were evaluated.
Results
Of the 111 patients analyzed, 66 cases (59.5%) were categorized as robust, 33 cases (29.7%) as pre-frailty, and 12 cases (4.5 %) as frailty. The oral frailty index, the cognitive and living functions score, and BMI were found to be factors influencing pre-frailty or frailty. In the evaluation of individual frailty score categories, BMI only had an influence on those with a frailty score ≤ 2. The cognitive and living functions score was a factor influencing those with frailty scores ≤ 3. The oral frailty index was found to have a significant influence on all frailty score categories.
Conclusion
Poor oral health has an influence on frailty in patients with type 2 diabetes aged ≥ 75. In this patient population, as frailty progresses, the impact of oral health on frailty may increase.
Trial registration:
This study was retrospectively registered in UMIN-CTR (UMIN000044227).
Temperature Effects of Water-Metallic Interface Energies and Their Influence on Contact Angle Test for Surface Cleanliness: A Combined Experimental and Molecular Simulation Study
Authors: Jiang Yilan , Niu Longfei , Zhou Guorui , Lv Haibin , Miao Xinxiang , Yao Caizhen , Qian Wen
Published: June 2021

To ensure the effectiveness of the high-power-laser facilities, the cleanliness of metal parts is of significance. In this paper, molecular modelings combined with contact angle tests were performed, in order to investigate the temperature effects of water-metallic interface energies and their influence on the tests for surface cleanliness. As results, the attractive forces were found between water and metallic surfaces, in which van der Waals forces contribute most, and the energies raised with elevated temperatures from 291 K to 303 K; meanwhile, the contact angle tests show both the Al and Fe components are hydrophilic, and the contact angle reduced with elevated temperatures; furthermore, correlations can be found between the energy change and the contact angle at varying temperatures. These conclusions are helpful in the accurate testing of surface cleanliness for optical scientific facilities.
Does Additional Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy Improve the Effect of Isolated Percutaneous Radiofrequency Coblation in Patients with insertional Achilles Tendinopathy? Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Song Yu-Jie , Xuan Wen-Kai , Hua Ying-Hui
Published: June 2021

Background

No conclusive evidence recommends a prior treatment for insertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT). It is theorized that both percutaneous radiofrequency coblation and extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) relieve pain within the insertion. However, no clinical evidence shows that either treatment promote the regeneration of the tendon or if the combination of these 2 interventions offer better function and less pain than one therapy.
Methods

The study is a randomized, controlled trial with patients allocated in a 1:1 ratio to one of two parallel groups. Patients with insertional Achilles tendinopathy who are not satisfied with the effect of conservative treatment will be screened. A minimum of 38 patients will be enrolled after deciding to participate in the trial on an informed basis. Then the intervention group and the control group perform radial ESWT and sham-ESWT respectively at 6 months after percutaneous radiofrequency coblation. The primary outcome will be the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment Achilles (VISA-A) Score. Secondary outcome measures will be Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) scale, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Tegner Score, and MRI ultra-short echo time (UTE) T2* value. The assessments will occur in 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years post-operatively. The differences between 2 groups will be conducted as intention-to-treat basis.
Discussion

We aim to investigate if radiofrequency coblation associated with ESWT can provide more encouraging imaging findings as well as functional and clinical outcomes regarding the treatment of the IAT comparing to the single radiofrequency coblation treatment.
Trial registration:

ChiCTR1800017898; Pre-results. Registered on 20 August 2018.
Advanced Practice Nurse Intervention Versus Usual Care For Hypertension Control: Study Protocol For An Open-Label Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Vay-Demouy Juliette , Vallée Alexandre , Cinaud Alexandre , Lelong Hélène , Kretz Sandrine , Blachier Vincent , Sorbets Emmanuel , Blacher Jacques
Published: June 2021

Background: Hypertension is the most frequent chronic pathology in France and in the world. It is one of the main modifiable cardiovascular risk factors. In France, 50% of treated hypertensives are uncontrolled and only 30% of treated patients are fully adherent to their antihypertensive treatment. Poor adherence to drug treatments is considered as one of the main causes of non-control of hypertension. Since 2018, a new profession has entered the French healthcare system: Advanced Practice Nurses (APN). They have many broad skills, at the interface of nursing and medical exercises. The purpose of this interventional study is to assess the impact of APN on blood pressure (BP) control in the context of usual care of hypertension thanks to a better adhesion of patients and a better therapeutic alliance. Methods: The study is designed as prospective, open-label, controlled, randomized 1-to-1 and mono-centric at the Hôtel-Dieu University Hospital, Paris, France. The participants are all hypertensive and recruited during an ambulatory hospitalization (AH) for cardiovascular assessment in the context of the management of their hypertension. Patients are divided into two groups: a control group who keeps a traditional follow-up (AH then consultation with a medical doctor (MD) within approximately two to six months) and an interventional group who will see an APN between the AH and the MD consultation, within 1-3 months. Patients are followed up over six months. The main judgment criterion is BP control (BP < 135/85 mmHg in home BP measurement). The hypothesis formulated is that an individual APN intervention, included in a usual hypertension management, improves BP control. Discussion: This innovative study is a first in France where APNs are at the dawn of their establishment in the healthcare system. It will provide an objective look at this new profession and the impact it can have on the overall management of hypertension. Trial registration: This trial was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov on June 24, 2020: protocol number NCT0448249.
Adjuvant SOX chemotherapy versus concurrent chemoradiotherapy after D2 radical resection of locally advanced esophagogastric junction (EGJ) adenocarcinoma: study protocol for a randomized phase III trial (ARTEG)
Authors: Cheng Xiangdong , Shen Jinwen , Zhu Xiu , Du Yian , Zhu Yuan , Yu Pengfei , Yang Litao , Xu Zhiyuan , Hang Ling , Zhang Yunli , Zhang Yanqiang , Liu Luying
Published: June 2021

BackgroundSurvival benefit of adjuvant radiotherapy for locally advanced gastric cancer following gastrectomy plus D2 lymphadenectomy has always been controversial. Esophagogastric junction (EGJ) adenocarcinoma, which is usually classified as gastric cancer in East Asia, often has a higher locoregional recurrence rate after operation because of its special anatomical characteristics. The aim of this study is to determine whether adjuvant radiotherapy can improve survival of locally advanced EGJ adenocarcinoma after D2 radical resection.MethodsIn this phase III, randomized, open label, controlled trial, we plan to recruit 378 patients with Siewert type II and III adenocarcinoma of EGJ, who had undergone transabdominal radical surgery and D2 lymphadenectomy, and were divided into pathological stage IIB to IIIC. All patients will be randomized 1:1 to receive either adjuvant chemotherapy alone (control group) or adjuvant chemotherapy plus chemoradiotherapy (experimental group). Patients allocated to control group will receive eight cycles of S-1 plus oxaliplatin (SOX), while experimental group will receive two cycles of SOX followed by 45-Gy RT combined with S-1 and four additional cycles of SOX. The primary endpoint is three-year disease free survival rate (DFS). The secondary endpoints are three-year overall survival rate (OS), three-year locoregional recurrence free survival rate (LRFS), three-year distant metastasis free survival rate (DMFS), and quality of life (QoL).DiscussionIn the past, the adjuvant treatment of EGJ adenocarcinoma need to draw on the experience of esophageal adenocarcinoma or gastric adenocarcinoma. In this study, EGJ adenocarcinoma is considered as an independent disease, and the conclusion will provide evidence for optimal adjuvant therapy of locally advanced EGJ adenocarcinoma after D2 radical resection.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials, NCT03973008. Registered 1 June, 2019. (retrospectively registered), URL: https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/prs/app/action/SelectProtocol?sid=S0008YDZ&selectaction=Edit&uid=U0000NS4&ts=2&cx=-7bsqxg
Predictive Factors of Return To Work After Hysterectomy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Dedden Suzanne J. , Bouwsma Esther V.A. , Geomini Peggy M.A.J. , Bongers Marlies Y. , Huirne Judith A.F.
Published: June 2021

Purpose: Although hysterectomy is one of the most frequently performed gynaecological surgeries, there is a dearth of evidence on perioperative care. The aim of the current study was to identify sociodemographic, surgical-related and work-related predictors of recovery following different approaches of hysterectomy.Methods: Eligible patients for this retrospective cohort study were women who underwent vaginal, abdominal or laparoscopic hysterectomy for both benign and malignant gynaecological disease in 2014 in Máxima Medical Centre in the Netherlands. The main outcome measure was full return to work (RTW). Data were collected using a patient survey. Potential prognostic factors for time to RTW were examined in univariate Cox regression analyses. The strongest prognostic factors were combined in a multivariable model.Results: In total 83 women were included. Median time to full return to work was 8 weeks (interquartile range [IQR] 6-12). The multivariable analysis showed that higher age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.053, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.012-1.095) and same day removal of indwelling catheter (HR 0.122, 95% CI 0.028-0.539) were predictors of shorter duration until full RTW after hysterectomy.Conclusions: This study provided insight in the predictors of recovery after hysterectomy. By identifying patient specific factors, pre-operative counselling can be individualized, changes can be made in perioperative care and effective interventions can be designed to target those factors.
Evaluation of efficacy and safety of Qiangzhu-qinggan formula as an adjunctive therapy in adult patients with severe influenza: study protocol for a randomized parallel placebo-controlled double-blind multicenter trial
Authors: Qiu Lei , WU Xianwei , Zhang Shaoyan , Yang Ming , Zhang Shunxian , Fu Jiyou , Li Cui , Zhang Zhijie , Zheng Peiyong , LU Zhenhui
Published: June 2021

Background: Influenza can fall into three categories according to severity: mild influenza, severe influenza, and critical influenza. Severe influenza can result in critical illness and sometimes death particularly in patients with comorbidities, advanced age, or pregnancy. Neuraminidase inhibitors (NAIs) are the only antiviral drugs in widespread use for influenza. However, the effectiveness of NAIs against severe influenza is uncertain. New effective drugs or regimens are therefore urgently needed. Qiangzhu-qinggan (QZQG) formula has been found to be effective against influenza virus infection during long-term application in China, which lacks support of evidence-based clinical trial till now. This study is designed to assess the efficacy and safety of QZQG formula as an adjuvant therapy in adult patients with severe influenza. Methods: This protocol is drawn up in accordance with the SPIRIT guidelines and CONSORT Extension for Chinese herbal medicine formulas. This is a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicenter trial. 228 adults with severe influenza are randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to QZQG or placebo for 7 days and receive 1 day of screening, 7 days of intervention and 21 days of observation. The primary outcome is the proportion of clinical improvement, defined as the proportion of patients who met the criteria of 3 points or less in the seven-category ordinal scale or 2 points or less in National Early Warning Score 2 within 7 days after randomization. Discussion: This is the first randomized, controlled, parallel, double-blind clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese herbal formula granules as an adjuvant therapy in adult patients with severe influenza. This study aims to redefine the value of traditional Chinese herbal medicines in the treatment of virus-related respiratory infectious diseases and serves as an example of evidence-based clinical trials of other Chinese herbal medicines.
Efficacy and Safety of Jin-Shui Huan-Xian Granule for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Study Protocol for a Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Yang Shu-guang , Yu Xue-qing , Li Jiansheng , Xie Yang , Zhang Wei , Ban Chengjun , Feng Jihong , Wu Lei , Lu Xuechao , Zhao Linmin , Meng Yong , Zhou Miao , He Yong , Luo Weixian
Published: June 2021

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a critical disease with poor prognosis. Although different studies have been conducted for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, limited treatments are available. Jin-shui Huan-xian granule, which is a Chinese medicine herbal compound, has shown a promising efficacy in reducing frequencies of acute exacerbations, improving exercise capacity the quality of life of patients for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Subjects and Methods:

This is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 312 idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients will be enrolled and randomly allocated to one of the two groups with 1:1. After a 2-week washout period, 52-week treatment will also be performed for all the patients. Patients in experimental group will be given Jin-shui Huan-xian granule with Jin-shui Huan-xian placebo for control group. Outcome measures including acute exacerbations, pulmonary function, dyspnea, exercise capacity, quality of life will be evaluated in this study.
Discussion

Based on our previous study, it is hypothesized that JHG will reduce the acute exacerbations, improve exercise capacity, pulmonary function, quality of life, delay the disease progression-free. High-level evidence-based support for TCM in IPF will also be obtained in this study.
Trial registration:
http:www.clinicaltrials.gov : NCT04187690. Register data: December 11, 2019.
Design,Simulation And Analysis of Junction Version Multi-Fin FINFET
Authors: K Srinivasa Rao , P Vishnu Vandana
Published: June 2021

This paper presents a 3-D statistical simulation study of Multi-fin junction FinFET for different technology nodes 32nm, 24 nm & 10 nm. For each and every technology node their corresponding Electrical parameters like on current (Ion), off current (Ioff), threshold voltage (Vth) are reported in the paper and also RF/Analog parameters like transconductance (gm), output conductance (gd), intrinsic gain (gm/gd) are reported. And also parameters like Electric field (E), Electron density (ne), Electron mobility (µ) which are measured across the device length are simulated. The proposed structure showed performance improvement in all the parameters when the technology node is decreased.
Evaluation of the Intensive Treatment and Rehabilitation Program for Residential Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers (INTREPRET) in the Philippines: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Harada Takayuki , Baba Toshiaki , Shirasaka Tomohiro , Kanamori Shogo
Published: June 2021

Background: The Philippines is one of the most severely affected countries by the methamphetamine epidemic in the world. The government launched a war on drugs policy to counter the situation in the country. However, brutality against drug users was criticized internationally. Thus, we have developed a comprehensive treatment program for methamphetamine users based on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and are going to evaluate its effectiveness. If its effectiveness is demonstrated, it will be helpful to implement much more effective and humane approaches to drug issues in the Philippines.Methods: Methamphetamine users who are admitted to government-run rehabilitation facilities are recruited and are randomly assigned either to the CBT-based treatment program or existing therapeutic community (TC)-based treatment. The CBT treatment program was developed based on the Matrix model considering the cultural and social factors in the Philippines. After 6-months treatment, participants will be followed up for 3 months and drug use (urine testing) and other psychological variables including craving, coping skills, and well-being will be compared.Ethics and dissemination Informed consent will be obtained from study participants prior to study participation. Ethical approval was obtained from research ethics review boards in both countries. This study was approved by Single Joint Research Ethics Board of the Department of Health, Republic of the Philippines (SJREB-2019-27) and the University of Tsukuba Faculty of Human Sciences Ethics Committee (T2019-70). 1). Potential participants will be given a summary of the study and a consent form. The consent form is signed and dated by participants prior to their study participation. Findings of this study will be submitted for publication in international scientific peer-reviewed journals and be presented at academic conferences.Trial registration number: UMIN Clinical Trials Registry JPRN-UMIN000038597. Registered on 15 November 2019. Protocol version February 13, 2020 ver.1
The Immediate And Long-Term Effects of Shexiang Tongxin Dropping Pill On Coronary Slow Flow: Study Protocol For A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Liu Birong , Liu Yong , Ma Liyong , Liu Jia , Li Jingen , Huang Kailin , Fu Qiang , Zheng Xiangying , Pan Yi , Zhang Wei , Gao Qun , Ye Jiaqi , Liu Yuqing , Hao Xuezeng , Li Meng , Zhang Lijing
Published: June 2021

Background: Coronary slow flow (CSF) is a phenomenon characterized by delayed contrast medium progression in angiography in the absence of obstructive coronary epicardial disease. However, there is currently no definite effective therapy. A small sample self-controlled study had suggested an immediate improvement in coronary slow blood flow by Shexiang Tongxin Dropping Pills (STDP). But high-quality evidences on drug dosage, medication cycle and long-term effects are still lacking while the mechanism of STDP remains unclear. Methods: This study is a randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 64 CSF patients diagnosed by coronary angiography will be randomly allocated into the test group, using STDP, and the control group, using placebo. The main efficacy indicators for immediate effects include thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) blood flow grading and corrected TIMI frame count. Long-term effects will be evaluated by the comparison of cardiac radionuclide score, and patient condition such as angina readmission rate and angina scale. The safety indicators include a routine complete blood count, liver and renal function test, cardiac markers (including TnI, CK-MB, Myo), NT-proBNP, coagulation function, 12-lead electrocardiogram, and echocardiography. All adverse events during the trial will be recorded. Moreover, endothelial factors (including ET-1, NO, eNOS, iNOS), inflammatory factors (including adropin, IL-6, IL-1, IL-18, TNF-α, Lp-PLA2, hs-CRP) will be observed. Blood stasis syndrome (including platelet activation factors such as CD62 and CD63, coagulation function and blood stasis syndrome score) will be evaluated.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2000035167. Registered on August 2, 2020. http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=57349
Remote TSN Frame Encapsulation by means of FPGA
Authors: Jiménez Jaime , Rodríguez Igor , Reguilón David , Zuloaga Aitzol , Lázaro Jesús
Published: June 2021

TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking) has replaced outdated Fieldbus and non-deterministic Ethernet in the Industry 4.0. Field buses are not capable of providing neither connection for industry 4.0 IoT (Internet of Things) nor compatibility between different manufacturers. On the other hand, Ethernet is not able to ensure real-time. On the contrary, TSN guarantees real-time transmission, IoT and compatibility between devices. However, adapting to frequently changing needs makes TSN protocol evolve continuously. For this reason, devices for TSN analysis, such as PCs or not advanced frame analysis equipment are not able to process TSN packets at the speed that standard advances, discarding them as wrong frames. The integration of a System on Chip (SoC) that contains an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and a microcontroller, with capacity for reconfiguration and monitoring of the frames in the protocol, would be an ideal solution to this problem. This paper describes how to encapsulate TSN frames in Ethernet packets using an FPGA. Such Ethernet frames can subsequently be decapsulated, i.e. in a PC, and thus enable analysing TSN traffic in nonspecialized devices.
Joint Channel Assignment and Bandwidth Reservation using Improved FireFly Algorithm (IFA) in WMN
Authors: narayanarao narayanarao , Reddy A. Rajasekhar
Published: June 2021

In WMN, at the time of network consignment and bandwidth registration, the active network consignment method did not take into consideration the intrusion, congestion load and bandwidth necessities as a whole. The significance centred bandwidth registration methods result in famishment of slightest significance congestion. Hence in this paper, we propose a Joint Channel Assignment and Bandwidth Reservation using Improved FireFly Algorithm (IFA) in WMN. Initially the priority of each node is determined based on the channel usage, future interference and link congestion probability metrics. The bandwidth is allocated straight, comparative to the nodule significance and entire quantity of congestion movements incomplete on the demanded nodule. For channel assignment and path selection, the improved FireFly Algorithm (IFA) is used. The objective function of IFA is determined in terms of link capacity, interference and flow conservation constraints. Then the channels and the path which minimize the objective function are selected by applying IFA. By simulation results we show that the proposed technique minimizes the traffic and enhances the channel efficiency.