bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coal Seams as an In-Situ Filter for Hydrogen Separation
Authors: Sayyafzadeh M. , Camilleri M. , Heryanto D. , Sander R.
Published: October 2024

Coal exhibits a selective sorption mechanism, making it a potential natural filtration system for gas purification. This study explores the use of coal seam gas reservoirs for the simultaneous separation and storage of carbon dioxide (CO2) from a mixture of hydrogen (H2) and CO2, the main products of Steam Methane Reforming (SMR). In this work, we present the results of two experimental tests, conducted on a core sample from the Bowen Basin. First, we measured and characterized H2 sorption onto the coal sample. Then, we performed a proof-of-concept experiment—a binary-component coreflooding test— to assess the competitive sorption behavior of H2 and CO2. The sorption measurements confirmed the low affinity of coal to H2, consistent with earlier observations in the literature. We also compared the results of H2 sorption with the CO2 sorption measurements of the same core sample. The comparison demonstrated that the coal sorption capacity for CO2 is approximately seven times greater than its capacity for H2 at a pressure of 10 MPa. The coreflooding test verified that a similar sorption contrast can be expected when the coal is exposed to a mixture of H2 and CO2. For this test, first, we equilibrated the sample with pure hydrogen and then continuously injected a mixture of H2 and CO2 with a molar ratio of 4:1. The coreflooding process showed that the injected CO2 displaced the adsorbed H2, despite its lower partial pressure, and an efficient CO2 separation and storage from this mixture, was achieved. These findings highlight the potential of coal seams for dual-purpose CO2 storage and gas purification. The results suggest that coal's selective sorption can be potentially exploited for CO2 capture and storage, thereby contributing to the improvement of the sustainability of hydrogen production from fossil fuels with carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS).
Overcoming Uncertainty in Pore-Pressure While Drilling Through Integration of Logging-While-Drilling and Managed Pressure Drilling; a Case Study from the Gulf of Thailand
Authors: Phettongkam Numan , Espinoza Irina Baca , Singh Harpreet Kaur Dalgit , Phumtabtim Panu , Ngo Hien , Homchaem Keeradit
Published: October 2024

High uncertainty in pore pressure trend possesses drilling challenges which pore pressure need to be updated and managed while drilling. The expected pore pressure trend includes pressure ramp and pressure regression in the area based on the offset well profile. Managing mud weight in this pore pressure is a challenging task without tool to update the pore pressure in real-time. Pressure ramp possesses risk of formation kick if mud weight is too low. In the regression trend, casing point to isolate the pressure regression interval need to be optimized. Uncertainty of casing point selection during regression trend could lead to significant overbalance and fracking of the formation. Updating pore pressure trend in real-time becomes critical in this drilling challenge.

Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) and Logging-While-Drilling (LWD) formation testing (FT) are deployed to overcome the challenge of uncertain pore pressure. MPD static pore pressure testing (SPPT) with reducing surface back pressure (SBP) applied is performed to update the pore pressure ramp until max pressure depth where regression trend is expected. During regression trend, LWD FT is performed to acquire pore pressure while SBP is still applied to avoid the kick from max pressure trend above the regression point. Regression trend of pore pressure is updated till limit of differential pressure then section total depth (TD) is decided. After casing isolation from high pore pressure trend, drilling in deeper section is continued with lower mud-weight to optimize differential pressure till TD is achieved.

Pore pressure increasing trend was updated with multiple MPD SPPT in multiple sands encountered in expected target layer and LWD FT acquired formation pressure in regression trend after each sand is encountered. Pore pressure trend is closely monitored to identify the regression trend until desired differential pressure is achieved. Casing point for intermediate section was decided which leads to lower mud weight in the deep section for better efficiency in the deep section. Planned TD was achieved by penetrating multiple sand in this appraisal/exploration (A/E) well despite of the uncertainty in pore pressure trend of pressure ramp and regression. Integration of MPD SPPT and LWD FT enabled pore pressure to be updated in both ramping and regression trend in real-time.

Proven workflow with integration of MPD and LWD FT enable operators to drill through challenging formation pore pressure trend, uncertainty in drilling window and able to achieve target TD. Best practices of MPD and LWD operation in this pore pressure challenge could be applied for future drilling in the area with such pore pressure trend and thus able to manage the potential risk of drilling in such challenging environment.
Multi-Phase Flow Metering and Water Cut Testing Device and its Application in CO2 Huff & Puff Wells
Authors: Deng Feng , Li Yunzi , Liu Huabing , Chen Guanhong , Chen Shiwen , Liu Zhaolong , Wang Mengying , Zhang Lei , Shi Junfeng , Zhao Ruidong
Published: October 2024

CO2 stimulation is a production stimulation technology that utilizes the expansion, extraction, and dissolution of CO2 to replenish formation energy, increase recovery, increase oil well production in high water-cut heavy oil and bottom water reservoirs. It is also an excellent carbon sequestration method, has become a research hotspot in recent years. The water cut of wellhead multi-phase flow rate are important parameters for calculating CO2 stimulation efficiency, evaluating the effect of CO2 stimulation, and carrying out working condition diagnosis. However, the existing water cut sampling and testing methods, in oil fields have several problems such as low efficiency, poor precision, low frequency, changes in fluid physical properties during the sampling process, and high cost, which cannot meet the requirements. In addition, currently, for the gas-liquid two-phase flow and even the oil, gas and water three-phase flow produced by CO2 huff & puff Wells, three-phase separator metering technology is generally used. The frequency and accuracy of the metering are not high, making it difficult for engineers to accurately understand the production dynamics of oil and gas wells. The series of CO2 huff & puff wells water cut, or multi-phase flow rate measurement methods and devices based on water cut meters or multi-phase flow-meters are proposed, which solves the problem of online, high-frequency, and accurate measurement of water cut or three-phase flow in huff and puff wells in an integrated manner. The proposed method of diagnosing the working conditions of carbon dioxide huff and puff wells based on multi-parameter water cut meter can realize the "gas slug", "continuous pumping and spraying", "oil blockage", "gas continuous phase", "ice blockage" and other working conditions diagnosis and alarm, that occurs in carbon dioxide huff and puff wells during the production stage, and proposes "monitoring and observation", "exhaust pressure control", "hot washing", "Variable flush times", "heating pipeline" and other corresponding treatment methods.
Advancing Flaring Measurement Systems in Oil and Gas Fields Through Validation with Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) Data
Authors: Al Ghefeili Hilal. M. , Waily Najma. A. , Ajmi Mohammed. I. , Hinai Ashraf. S.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the differences between on-site flaring measurement systems (ultrasonic meters) in oil and gas facilities and data from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) Night Fire. The focus is on Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), which has made significant efforts to reduce flaring and supports the World Bank's Zero Routine Flaring Initiative. VIIRS Nightfire (VNF) data was used to estimate annual gas flared volumes and compared to measurements from PDO ultrasonic meters at various facilities. Key parameters such as flare average temperature, VIIRS detection frequency, ellipticity, and flow rate were investigated to determine their effect on data accuracy. The analysis found significant differences between the two datasets, with relative errors ranging from 7% to 30% between 2019 and 2023. Some facilities, like facility A, showed an exact match from the past year, while other facilities, like station C, showed a low meter reliability. This study contributes to improving flaring measurement practices, ensuring environmental regulatory compliance, and reducing the environmental impact of flaring activities in the oil and gas industry.
Optimization of Shallow Shale Gas Reservoir in Mountainous Area Development Strategy and Well Type - A Case Study of Zhaotong Shale Gas Demonstration Area in Southern China
Authors: Liu Yunyi , Xian Chenggang , Huang Xiaoqing , Zhang Muyang , Liu Yang , Chen Xin , Wang Jianjun , Liu Cheng , He Yong
Published: October 2024

Shallow shale gas reservoirs in mountainous terrains are influenced by "low formation pressure, significant variations in burial depth, steep formation dips, and the presence of fractures and microstructures", posing challenges in aligning well types and development strategies with geological characteristics.

This research introduces an innovative "tectonics-driven, multifaceted integration" approach to development and well optimization techniques. Utilizing the Petrel platform, this study constructed a detailed 3D geomechanical model for a geologically complex body, incorporating various stress patterns. The model delineates the area based on gas enrichment status, tectonic styles, stress regimes, and fracture development. Comparative analyses of stress distribution around the wells in different drilling orientations were conducted using near-wellbore geomechanical models. Additionally, production capacity evaluations and numerical simulations were employed to analyze the effectiveness of different development strategies and well types. The near-wellbore geomechanical model indicates that well placement along tectonic contours (at certain angles to the minimum horizontal principal stress) enhances wellbore stability and ensures a more uniform stress distribution conducive to homogenous modifications. Simulations reveal minimal differences in production capacity under identical fracturing processes, advantageous for efficient "water drainage and gas production". This well distribution method suits the extensively developed steep zones within the study area. Addressing the challenges in strike-slip to thrust transition zones and thrust areas, where bedding planes and low-angle fractures are prone to activation and horizontal wells face difficulties in vertical layer penetration, a pilot test for a comprehensive three-dimensional development strategy using clustered directional wells from a controlled platform was conducted. The feasibility of deploying directional wells in reverse fault stress regime zones was validated through simulations. Ultimately, considering the life-cycle benefit goals and maximized reserve utilization, the study advocates for a "tectonics-driven, multifaceted integration" concept, leading to the creation of a decision-making framework for a capacity-focused, integrated development model.

Based on the mechanistic understanding that complex structure and strong non-homogeneity are essential in forming complex fracture networks, this study challenges the traditional practice of orienting wells along the direction of minimum horizontal principal stress. It innovatively proposes the method of well placement along the direction of tectonic contours or principal controlling faults, offering valuable insights for the production of other unconventional resources.
Augmenting Well Control Safety Through Cloud-Based Real-Time Dynamic Simulation: A Mechanism for Ensuring Safety in Openhole Deep Transient Testing
Authors: Ashish Shubham , Lopes Velerian Sanjao , Kumar Arvind , Jain Anurag , Wydiabhakti Tety Benedicta , Solohaga Dario
Published: October 2024

Wellbore dynamics are essential in reservoir testing, acting as a vital connection between the reservoir and surface measurements. This study addresses the challenges in well control and emphasizes the advantages of utilizing wellbore dynamic simulation to enhance the safety of formation tester (FT) sampling and deep transient tests (DTT). The research particularly focuses on pre-job simulations and multi-parameter sensitivity analysis to improve our understanding of how hydrocarbons interact with wellbore mud during and after FT pump-out operations, thereby addressing the critical challenges of well control in the oil and gas industry. FT typically involves the use of specialized tools to extract fluid samples from the formation, allowing for the analysis of pressure, temperature, and fluid properties. DTT, on the other hand, involves isolating a section of the wellbore and flowing fluids to the surface, providing real-time data on the reservoir's productivity. Both FT and DTT are complex operations that require precise control over various parameters to ensure accurate data collection and to avoid operational hazards. One of the most critical aspects of these operations is well control, which involves maintaining the balance between formation pressure and wellbore pressure to prevent uncontrolled fluid flow. Well control is particularly challenging during DTT due to the dynamic nature of the wellbore environment. Well control is a fundamental aspect of safe and efficient drilling operations. It involves managing the pressure in the wellbore to prevent kicks (influx of formation fluids) and blowouts (uncontrolled release of fluids). This paper examines 3 case studies that explore different types of hydrocarbons and overbalance conditions. In these cases, cloud-based wellbore fluid simulations were performed under various flow rate scenarios to predict potential well control issues. Emphasis is placed on near-critical hydrocarbon fluids, including condensate, volatile oil, and wet gas.
A Multidisciplinary Approach in Understanding the Challenges in Drilling Infill Extended-Reach Wells in the Depleted Stag Field, Northwest Shelf, Australia—A Case Study
Authors: John Pallikathekathil Zachariah , Suriyanto Olivia , Altaf Iftikhar , Nunez Perez Carlos , Oommen George , Kirthi Singam Chandrasekhar , Siu Danny
Published: October 2024

The Stag oil field is a shallow, highly unconsolidated, highly permeable sandstone reservoir that was discovered in 1993. Currently, the Stag Field is depleted, with 51 wells drilled in the field. While drilling two extended reach drilling (ERD) wells in 2022, the Stag 51H experienced two incidents of severe total mud loss that impacted the efficiency of the drilling operation. In 2025, potentially one or two more ERD wells are planned to be drilled. One of the ERD wells may use casing while drilling (CWD) technology based on the experience from previous experiences in the field Therefore, it is important to understand the reasons for these total losses and construct a robust, calibrated geomechanics model so that steps to mitigate drilling risks could be taken when drilling the planned wells.

A detailed geomechanics study was undertaken to understand the reasons for these total mud-loss drilling events. A predrill, 1D mechanical earth model (1D-MEM) was constructed in three offset wells incorporating the leakoff test (LOT), rock test data, petrophysical logs, and drilling experience. This predrill 1D-MEM was propagated to the actual trajectory of the recently drilled horizontal wells to understand the drilling experience, especially the mud losses in Stag-51H.

There were some very insightful inferences from the geomodeling work that provided possible reasons for the total losses. We found that the change in stress magnitudes due to depletion, does reduce the fracture gradient (FG). The equivalent circulating density (ECD) did go above the modelled FG but was still below the fracture propagation pressure (FGrow) estimate (Ito et al. 2001). The stability of the faults present in the legacy operator static model were analyzed for possible reason for losses. We found that the depletion significantly decreases the ECD limit at which these faults, if intersected, could become critically stressed, causing total mud losses. If the two wells did intersect faults, then these critically stressed faults in depleted conditions could explain the total mud losses. However, two predepletion horizontal wells, drilled in the same orientation as the recently drilled wells, did not experience total losses. Why would this be? Could the geomechanics model constructed explain the reasons? In this paper we explain our findings.

There is an increasing shift in drilling infill wells in severely depleted formations. An integrated geomechanics approach was adopted to analyze these mud-loss events when drilling through depleted formations. The learnings from this case study could form a template for other operators to predict these incidents and take mitigation steps when drilling into depleted reservoirs.
Fractal Characteristics of Microscale CO2 Sequestration Damage in Glutenite Reservoirs Based on NMR
Authors: Yang Liu , Gong Fei , Yu Zhehan , Cai Jiawei , Liu Zhen , Zhao Ziheng
Published: October 2024

To reveal the impact of CO2 dissolution and storage on the reservoir of gravel rock, core samples from the Junggar Basin in China were subjected to CO2-brine saturation treatment. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), CT scanning, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were used to analyze changes in mineral composition and fluid storage after CO2 reaction. Additionally, fractal theory was employed to characterize the heterogeneity and complexity of the pore system. The results indicate that, in heterogeneous gravel rock, the destructive effect of mineral dissolution due to chemical reactions is more significant than the mineral swelling effect. Under CO2 exposure, the fractal dimensions and porosity at different scales tend to increase, which is mainly related to the content of minerals such as sodium feldspar, illite, and quartz. NMR T2 results show that the change in porosity after CO2-brine saturation is primarily due to the increase in the number of relatively large pores (characterized by fluid relaxation time T2 > 10 ms). Two-dimensional NMR T1-T2 further reveals an increase in the content and range of movable water within large pores. CO2 immersion reduced the fractal dimensions of gravel rock by nearly 2%, indicating a decrease in pore surface roughness and structural complexity. This study contributes to understanding the evolution of gravel rock microstructures under geological conditions during long-term CO2 storage.
Best Practices in Wells Workover Planning Using Four-In-One Well Integrity Suite Evaluation
Authors: Loo S. H. , Maric C.
Published: October 2024

Well integrity test plays an important segment in coal exploration as part of the preventive measures for any harmful substances entering the surrounding rock formations and aquifers. In compliance with local regulation and Code of Practice, the Coal Seam Gas (CSG) wells would need to be monitored in timely manner to ensure intact well integrity.

A combination of four advanced diagnostic technologies, including magnetic flux leakage-, contact-type caliper-, ultrasonic cement impedance- and acoustic bond-based wireline logging tools had been deployed in a series of vertical, 5.5 to 7-inch CSG wells for accurate casing and cement inspection. The 4-in-1 method together with auxiliary measurements such as gamma ray and casing collar locator enables the acquisition of comprehensive sets of measurements in 3D view with just 2 logging runs, improving the operation efficiency and cost. The high-resolution flux leakage detection tool together with 40-arm caliper tool allowed detection of both internal and external defects or deformation. The ultrasonic cement impedance-based tool was utilized for cement quality check.

Full spectrum of casing and cement inspection of logs has been successfully acquired for more than 400 CSG wells since 2020. Seven different case studies were demonstrated in this study, featuring some of the common type corrosions in some of the idle and injection wells, together with some of the industry's best remedial practices applied. Some of the cases had proven the successful integration of magnetic flux leakage-, caliper- and ultrasonic-based tools in the high-resolution circumferential analysis of internal and external defects in every single casing joint or even small 100% through hole. Time lapse corrosion logging has also proven an effective approach for monitoring the progression of highly penetrated external and internal defects and internal pitting in injection wells. Cement integrity was also evaluated simultaneously to pinpoint sections with poor cement coverage or potential channeling and its relation to the casing defects.

In short, every single well counts in building a strong foundation for integrity management and it requires long-term commitment. Effective corrosion logging using a four-in-one well integrity suite helped users to define the strategy for workover better and ensure compliance with the local regulations.
Assessing the Application of Drone TDLAS Methane Emissions Monitoring Technology in the Intertropical Convergence Zone Using Machine
Authors: Dawson K. W. , Smith B. J. , Stocker I. , Evans P.
Published: October 2024

Global energy stakeholders are increasingly becoming more committed to global methane reduction and emissions transparency. These organizations have global reach and production processes which can pose unique problems for consistent measurement and verification techniques. To help provide more consistent measurements across the globe, this study evaluates the efficacy of a drone-mounted TDLAS sensor for use in the Inter-tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), an area of the world plagued with dampened windspeeds often less than 2 m s-1. This environment makes accurate measurements of point source emission rates challenging for advanced emissions monitoring technologies which is a substantial roadblock in the implementation of OGMP 2.0 best practices for Level 5 emissions monitoring. We simulated errors in mass-balance derived methane emission rates by utilizing a Gaussian plume model and drone flight paths with a vertical raster pattern at a 10Hz sensor sampling frequency. The Gaussian plume model allows for simple theoretical equations as a function of plume rise, downwind distance from the source, plume dispersion, and altitude-dependent wind velocity to be explicitly accounted for to understand sensitivity from errors in each of these terms. We conducted a Monte Carlo simulation and explored uncertainty across all sources. Finally, we built a machine learning (ML) random forest (RF) classifier to predict survey success based on prevailing conditions and survey design parameters to offer a comprehensive approach to assessing and mitigating uncertainties in methane emission measurements. We find that survey settings need to be carefully considered along with plume effects to provide accurate measurements in the field. To illustrate, we show a case study with two flights, both surveying flares but with different flight settings, to achieve the desired error < 30%. Our case study showed that mid-range wind speeds can achieve high survey success with lower resolution surveys (i.e., faster flight velocity and larger vertical step) whereas low-range wind speeds require higher resolution for best results (i.e., lower flight velocity and lower vertical step).
Deployment of Highly Sensitive Passive Acoustic Sensors for Well Integrity Diagnostics in Conventional and Unconventional Wells Before P&A: A Case Study from Australia
Authors: Yovaraj K. , Sunarko Iwan , Troup D. , Mahmud A.
Published: October 2024

This paper highlights the successful deployment of a highly sensitive passive acoustic sensor to investigate gas migration behind casing in both conventional and unconventional onshore wells with the primary objective is to assess downhole well integrity before plug and abandonment (P&A). Ensuring the prevention of unplanned fluid movement within the wellbore is crucial throughout the well's lifespan. Therefore, identifying and rectifying any issues is mandatory to maintain extended production and environmental integrity. Conversely, detecting fluid movement provides operators with valuable insights into potential new hydrocarbon sources for future development and optimization, especially during the well's late life.

A conventional oil well and an unconventional coal seam gas well, which had ceased production and were secured for abandonment, exhibited undesired sustained annulus pressure in their outermost casing annuli. To address these challenges, a highly sensitive passive acoustic tool, coupled with a quartz pressure and temperature sensor, was deployed to cover the targeted formation interval in two different well states. The tool conducted continuous logging at a rate of 10 meters per minute, with 2-meter station intervals across the targeted interval. In the first well state, the tubing and annuli were shut-in for 24 hours to establish a baseline for reservoir activity by monitoring temperature and listening for acoustic signals. In the second well state, the surface casing annulus (SCP) was continuously vented, while the tubing and production casing annulus remained shut-in. Fluid movement across a failed barrier generates turbulence, producing sound waves detected by the tool's sensor, which has a broad frequency spectrum. The tool's exceptional sensitivity, with a detection capability ten times higher for sound frequencies below 15 kHz, made it highly suitable for this application. The captured data was then analyzed across the targeted interval.

Effective planning and deployment of this technology enabled operators to accurately detect fluid movement in the wellbore, crucial for planning cement plug placement during the plug and abandonment (P&A) phase. The well-organized data acquisition process not only enhanced operational efficiency but also reduced carbon emissions during conveyance. The acquired data played a pivotal role in client decision-making for P&A job planning.
Modelling the Mechanical Integrity of Caprock and Faults to Optimize the UGS Injection Upper-Pressure Limit in XGS Field
Authors: Zhang Lian Jin , Luo Yu , Zhao Zhi Han , Li Long Xin , Younessi Ahmadreza , Zhou Yongsheng
Published: October 2024

A finite element model is prepared for the XGS filed located in Sichuan province, onshore China. The model is simulated under different storage pressures to investigate the geomechanical risks associated with depletion and injection operations during the underground gas storage (UGS) seasonal cycles. For this purpose, a detailed analysis is carried out to study the stability of the faults and integrity of the storage and its caprock. The numerical model is designed to capture the complex geometry of the XGS field and the property variation in the 3D space with a focus on the targeted storage layer for the UGS operation. The result of the reservoir dynamic flow simulation is transferred to the geomechanical model to run the finite element simulation. The changes in the stresses and strains are calculated at the end of each coupled simulation step and used for different geomechanical analyses. These analyses are the reservoir compaction, displacement of ground surface, integrity of the caprock and the stability of the natural fractures and faults during the depletion and injection phases of the UGS operation. The targeted storage rocks are stiff with Young's modulus more than 50GPa. The calculated storage deformations are insignificant during the injection and depletion operations. Consequently, the stress changes in the overburden are relatively low. The analyses show that the caprock fails at injection pressures higher than 6MPa above the initial storage pressure. The results of the modelling were used to optimize the upper-pressure limit of the UGS injection for safe operations.
Alström syndrome: The Journey to Diagnosis
Authors: Sinha Akshat , Leeson-Beevers Kerry , Lewis Catherine , Loughery Elizabeth , Geberhiwot Tarekegn
Published: October 2024

Background:
Alström syndrome (AS) is a recessively inherited genetic condition which is ultra-rare and extremely complex. Symptoms include retinal dystrophy, nystagmus, photophobia, hearing loss, obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, cardiomyopathy and can affect the liver and kidneys and result in other associated complications. The condition is progressive, but it is important to note that not all the complications associated with AS occur in everyone affected. Symptoms can also present at different stages making diagnosis difficult. Prevalence is thought to be around 1 in a million and there are currently 88 people diagnosed with AS in the UK
Results:
Only 18% of patients were diagnosed between the age of 3 months and one year following the onset of AS symptoms. Patients with visual impairment and cardiomyopathy were diagnosed much more quickly, either in infancy or early childhood. Patients with visual impairment and no other obvious symptoms waited longer for an AS diagnosis. 41% of our research participants waited over 5 years for a diagnosis and the Covid-19 pandemic further exacerbated this leading to more delays and missed diagnostic opportunities. The speed at which patients are diagnosed clearly needs to be improved. Lack of research and treatment advances: the lack of awareness about Alström syndrome can contribute to limited research efforts and funding for the condition. Insufficient research and treatment advances can further impede the diagnostic process and limit access to therapies or clinical trials, ultimately impacting patient outcomes.
Conclusion:
While we welcome these developments, our findings, and the evidence we have gathered in this report suggests that more needs to be done to improve the experiences of people receiving a diagnosis of AS. Obesity that rapidly develops in infancy should be flagged as a key symptom to be aware of where Alström syndrome is a possible diagnosis. Visual impairment in combination with cardiomyopathy is a frequent first presentation for patients with AS. Being alert to this and forming standardised pathways should improve the diagnostic odyssey for patients and families affected by AS.
Bias Correction of Precipitation from Convection-Permitting Models at the Point Scale: A Case Study in Switzerland
Authors: Nguyen Trang , Velasquez Patricio , Dietzel Andreas , Cook Lauren M.
Published: October 2024

Convection-permitting models (CPMs) outperform coarser regional climate models in resolving convective processes and predicting short-duration, high-impact weather phenomena. Sub-daily rainfall data from CPMs are crucial for impact models, such as urban drainage systems, but bias correction is still needed for the accuracy in local scale. This study estimates biases and uncertainties in CPM simulations at hourly and daily intervals, testing quantile mapping (QM) for bias correction. Data from over 70 weather stations in Switzerland validated CPM outputs and correction methods using sub-hourly rainfall records. COSMO-CLM's 2.2 km simulations were used for historical and future scenarios. Classic QM and several advanced versions, including moving windows and spatial pooling, were tested. Validation focused on three aspects: (A) statistical distribution of precipitation, (B) historical rainfall indices, and (C) future changes in rainfall indices. CPM biases were assessed by (A) and (B), while QM impacts were evaluated by all three. Findings highlight CPM limitations, especially for sub-daily intervals, with wet biases in extreme percentiles up to 30–35 mm/hour. Biases varied with different precipitation patterns. While QM methods reduce biases, they can distort the climate change signal, particularly in hourly rainfall indices. Upgraded QM techniques, such as those using moving windows or spatial pooling, are recommended, though caution is needed with longer observation periods. Future work will examine seasonal precipitation impacts and use diverse CPM ensembles for more reliable simulations.
Blockades Adenosine Receptor 2B Suppresses Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Progression by Inhibiting Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Secretion from Macrophages
Authors: Qin Dailei , Huang Kewei , Yao Zehui , Xi Pu , Jiang Lingmin , Ran Wei , Li Shengping
Published: October 2024

Background
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal disease with a five-year survival rate of less than 10%. The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) was primarily responsible for the poor prognosis in PDAC. M2 Macrophages are a crucial cell population with pro-tumorigenic effects in response to extrinsic signals. Adenosine, a purine nucleoside catabolite of ATP, is one of the standard signals in TME that drives macrophage M2 polarization by activating adenosine receptor (ADOR). Although four types of ADOR have been reported previously, it is still unclear which receptor mediates the main pro-cancer effects in PDAC.
Methods
The conditioned medium (CM) was made by supernatants from ADOR-activation macrophages. The wound healing, trans-well, and CCK-8 assay detected the phenotypic change of pancreatic cancer cell lines PANC-1 and BxPC-3. The transcriptome sequencing was performed to screen the specific cytokine secreted from ADOR-activation macrophages. The ELISA assay was used to verify the cytokine concentration in the supernatants of ADOR-activation macrophages. The Western blot was performed to explore the expression level of proteins related to EMT, cell cycle, and cytokine. The bioinformatics analysis was utilized to find the signaling pathways modulating cytokine secretion. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to calculate the IHC score of the ADOR correlated with the cytokine secretion. The Kaplan-Meier analysis was conducted to predict the prognosis of PDAC patients according to the IHC score of ADOR. The receptor antagonists were used in vivo experiments for mechanism validation.
Results
The CM promoted PANC-1 and BxPC-3 migration, invasion, and proliferation. Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) was the specific cytokine contained in the CM with cancer-promoting capacity based on the result of bioinformatics analysis. The activation of ADORA2B elevated the LIF concentration in the macrophage supernatants through the RAF-MEK-ERK signaling pathway. The expression ratio of ADORA2B ranks second among the four types of ADOR in PDAC. The IHC score of ADORA2B in PDAC significantly correlates with overall and disease-free survival in PDAC patients. LIF stimulated PANC-1 and BxPC-3 migration, invasion, and proliferation by connecting with the LIF receptor (LIFR) and activating the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. The ADORA2B and LIFR antagonists decreased the tumor size and number of hepatic metastatic lesions in the pancreatic orthotopic implantation model.
Conclusion
Activation of ADORA2B promotes LIF secretion from macrophages through the RAF-MEK-ERK signaling pathway. Meanwhile, the LIF secreted from macrophages promotes PDAC progression by activating the JAK-STAT signaling pathway.
Comprehensive Characterization of Invasive Mammary Carcinoma with Lobular Features: Integrating Morphology and E-cadherin Immunohistochemistry Patterns
Authors: Sung You-Na , Jeon Taesung , Lee Ji-Yun , Oh Jaewon , An Jungsuk , kim Aeree
Published: October 2024

Background
Breast cancer treatment prioritizes molecular subtypes over histologic types. However, considering the unique biological behavior of invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), its diagnosis is crucial for patient management. Therefore, this study aimed to review breast cancer cases, focusing on the E-cadherin patterns and lobular morphology of cases misclassified in the original reports.
Methods
A comprehensive review was conducted on 481 breast cancer biopsy cases diagnosed as invasive breast carcinoma of no special type (IBC-NST) or ILC with E-cadherin staining. These cases were categorized into six groups based on tumor morphology (ductal/lobular) and E-cadherin expression pattern (membranous/loss/aberrant): 1) ductal/membranous, 2) lobular/loss, 3) lobular/aberrant, 4) Mixed, 5) ductal/loss or aberrant, and 6) lobular/membranous.
Results
In 211 cases (43.8%), an E-cadherin pattern indicating ILC (loss and aberrant) was observed alongside lobular morphology, representing 5.52% of all breast cancer biopsies during the relevant period. Moreover, 181 cases (37.6%) showed a membranous pattern with ductal morphology, four (0.8%) were mixed IBC-NST and ILC, and 85 (17.7%) exhibited discordance between morphology and E-cadherin expression. Notably, only 15 of 58 cases (25.9%) identified as ILC based on aberrant patterns were initially diagnosed as ILC. Among 58 cases showing membranous pattern with lobular morphology, only two were diagnosed as ILC in the original reports. Similarly, of 27 cases with loss or aberrant pattern with ductal morphology, only nine (33.3%) were initially diagnosed as IBC-NST.
Conclusions
In real-world practice, diagnosing ILC often heavily depends on E-cadherin results. This study emphasizes the need for diagnostic clarification in cases with discordance between morphology and E-cadherin patterns.
Long-term Survival in Ischemic Stroke Patients: A Comprehensive Analysis of the TyG-AIP-BMI Composite Index (TabCI) from MIMIC-IV ICU Data
Authors: Hu Yinqin , Li Junxiong , Wang Chenghao , Cheng Jiwei
Published: October 2024

Background Insulin resistance-induced metabolic disorders play a crucial role in exacerbating ischemic stroke. This study aims to explore the association between TabCI and long-term mortality risk in severe ischemic stroke patients.
Methods Data from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV 2.2) database were accessed to retrieve data of ischemic stroke patients. Patients were stratified into four groups based on TabCI quartiles. The study assessed the primary outcome of 180-day all-cause mortality and secondary outcomes including 90-day and 1-year ACM. Kaplan-Meier curves were used to compare outcomes across groups, and lasso regression analysis was employed to select covariates. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were used to explore the association between TabCI and these outcomes. Lastly, interaction and subgroup analyses were conducted to validate the stability of results.
Results A total of 1,141 severe ischemic stroke patients were included, with a mean age of 69 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 59-79), and 565 participants (49.5%) were male. Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated significantly lower long-term survival rates in patients in Q1 and Q3 compared to those in Q2 and Q4. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis adjusted for covariates showed a statistically significant increase in 180-day mortality risk in TabCI quartiles, with Q2 and Q4 groups also exhibiting increased risks at 90 days and 1 year. Additionally, RCS analysis revealed a gradual L-shaped correlation between TabCI and 90-day and 180-day all-cause mortality, with a smooth U-shaped trend observed for 1-year mortality, demonstrating significant non-linearity. Subgroup analysis further indicated an inverse correlation between TabCI and long-term mortality risk in non-Caucasian patients and those using aspirin, as well as negative correlations in TabCI among patients not receiving CRRT for 90-day and 180-day mortality.
Conclusion TabCI could serve as a marker for stratifying long-term risk among severe ischemic stroke patients, although its clinical predictive efficacy for long-term mortality in these patients is limited.
Assessment of Encroachment along the Urban River using Unmanned Ariel Vehicle
Authors: Mishra Anurag , Ohri Anurag , Singh Prabhat Kumar , Gaur Shishir , Singh Nikhilesh , Calay Rajnish Kaur
Published: October 2024

Streams and rivulets have a significant contribution to maintain river networks and their hydrology. It plays a crucial role in shaping downstream ecosystems and connecting watersheds. Despite their importance, these smaller rivers often lack the legal protections afforded to larger river segments, leaving them vulnerable to encroachment and changes in land use. The Assi River, a minor tributary of the river Ganga, once a historical lifeline and cultural symbol, is currently facing a severe threat to its existence. Due to illegal construction and encroachments, a substantial part of the river Assi has been transformed into a narrow channel carrying the municipal load of the city. The study, embraced encroachment and land use analysis in different buffer widths in high resolution scale. A UAV (DJI Phantom 4) was used to collect the aerial imagery and data was processed using Pix4D Mapper 4.1.2 to produce ortho-photo and DSM having horizontal accuracy of 5 cm. The land use and encroachment have been analysed using processed UAV images on QGIS.
Color Differences of Skin Paddles Using the Free Flap for Autologous Breast Reconstruction in Asian Patients
Authors: Nakatsuka Kengo , Karakawa Ryo , Yano Tomoyuki
Published: October 2024

Background
In this study, we aimed to evaluate color differences of the skin paddle in autologous breast reconstruction performed using the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap and the profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap. The primary focus was to compare the color match between the reconstructed breast skin and the donor-site skin, to achieve optimal esthetic results.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was performed on patients who had undergone unilateral breast reconstruction with a DIEP flap or a PAP flap between January 2020 and December 2022. Colors were captured using a digital camera and analyzed using Adobe Photoshop 2024 software. The L*, a*, and b* coordinates were used. The International Commission on Illumination Delta E 2000 (CIEDE2000) score was used to quantify color differences, comparing skin tones of the unaffected breast, DIEP flap, PAP flap, abdomen, and medial thigh.
Results
A total of 125 patients were analyzed. The DIEP flap demonstrated a closer color match to the native breast skin compared with the PAP flap (CIEDE2000 scores, 5.29 vs. 8.69, p < 0.01). No significant difference in color deformity with time was found between the DIEP flap and the PAP flap (CIEDE2000 scores, 5.61 vs. 8.25, p = 0.17).
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that the DIEP flap results in a more favorable color match for breast reconstruction than the PAP flap, enhancing esthetic outcomes. These results underscore the importance of considering skin color matching in flap selection for breast reconstruction surgery.
Opinions of healthcare professionals and patients on Internet of Things +pulmonary rehabilitation in chemotherapy patients with advanced lung cancer: A qualitative study
Authors: Tian Jun , Zhu Zhenggang , Peng Xiaoyu , Chen Yuyao , Liu Xiang , Zhong Wen
Published: October 2024

Objective
To explore opinions of healthcare professionals and patients on "Internet of Things (IoT)" + pulmonary rehabilitation(PR) in chemotherapy patients with advanced lung cancer. and to provide reference for the construction of "IoT+" PR program for advanced lung cancer chemotherapy patients.
Methods
A semi-structured interviews with healthcare workers and patients with advanced lung cancer receiving chemotherapy was conducted to investigated opinions on "IoT+" PR in advanced lung cancer. The framework of semi-structure interview focusing on the current situation, needs and vision, and implementation of "IoT+" PR was established by team discussion. And data were collected and analyzed.
Results
18 healthcare worker and 15 patients were recruited in our study. After interviews finished, we found that "IoT+" PR in advanced lung cancer were overlooked both in patients and health workers, and there were lack of knowledge, misconception, and absence of standard process. And we found that personalized "IoT+" PR plan and social supports were crucial in the ideas of participants. Moreover, participants showed interests in PR based on "IoT " due to its convenience and multi-facets helps.
Conclusion
PR in advanced lung cancer were overlooked both in patients and health workers, The construction of a large-scale tertiary hospital-primary hospital-family pulmonary rehabilitation consortium based on "IoT+" PR provides a new dimension to the traditional rehabilitation approach, efforts in improvement of "IoT+" PR knowledge and perception, establishment of standard and individualized PR plan, and utilization of "IoT " may help the practice of PR in advanced lung cancer.
Rare Synchronous Multiple Primary Lung Cancers with Staged Resection
Authors: Shoukry Sameh , Mateja Heather L , Bowers William , Vitvitsky Eugene
Published: October 2024

Background
Synchronous multiple primary lung cancer (sMPLC) remains a relatively rare and difficult pathology. Owing to ambiguous guidelines, there are few papers with a limited population that discuss outcomes for patients undergoing treatment for sMPLC. Differentiating sMPLC from metastatic lung lesions is crucial, as it directly influences management strategies, with surgical intervention often preferred.
Case Presentation
: We report the case of a 58-year-old male with a significant smoking history who was diagnosed with two histologically distinct adenocarcinomas located in the right and left upper lobes of the lungs. A comprehensive preoperative evaluation, including PET‒CT scans, brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and fine needle aspiration biopsies, was conducted. The patient was treated with staged bilateral upper lobectomies, during which intraoperative complications necessitated conversion to open thoracotomy. Pathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of sMPLC with negative lymph nodes and clear margins, and the tumors were staged as pT1b pN0 M0 and pT1a pN0 M0, respectively. The patient recovered well and remains cancer-free one year postdiagnosis.
Conclusions
This case underscores the importance of an extensive diagnostic workup and a staged surgical approach in the successful management of sMPLC. The patient's favorable outcome highlights the potential effectiveness of this treatment strategy, although close follow-up is essential to monitor for recurrence, particularly within the first two years following surgery. Ongoing collaboration with databases collecting information on sMPLC is necessary to gain a better understanding of diagnostic and management techniques for this unique class of patients.
Isolation of Bacillus zhangzhouensis OBB from local Polyphylla fullo (L.) larvae and PCR-based detection of cry1 gene
Authors: Boga Ozlem Bakir , Kurbanoglu Esabi Basaran
Published: October 2024

The most commonly used bacteria in biopesticide production is Bacillus thuringiensis due to cry proteins. Since continuous and repeated use of biopesticides may cause resistance development in pests, it is necessary to investigate isolates containing new cry genes. Bacillus zhangzhouensis OBB was isolated from Polyphylla fullo larvae. The presence of the cry gene was detected in this isolate. The conclusion that the strain carries the cry gene was made by PCR and SEM analysis. In addition, the central location of the Bacillus zhangzhouensis OBB spore structure, SDS-PAGE analysis and DNA sequence analysis showed phylogenetic differences between B. thuringiensis. B. zhangzhouensis showed bands between ̴ 250 kDa and ̴ 80 kDa. As a result, Bacillus zhangzhouensis OBB can be used as an alternative biopesticide in case of insect resistance to B. thuringiensis biopesticides. Indicating that this isolate has the potential to be effective against Coleoptera insect pests.