bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proxy Equation Using Data Analysis for Benchmark Recovery Factor Estimation in Gas Cap Reservoir
Authors: Sinha Ankaj Kumar , Jalan Shlok , Ranjan Rakesh
Published: September 2024

Reservoir Performance Benchmarking (RPB) is a proprietary tool developed by PETRONAS for Malaysian Oil reservoirs which uses a combination of analytical equations and data driven approach to compute Reservoir Complexity Index and Benchmark Recovery Factor. Reservoir benchmarking tool considers water injection in an oil reservoir to evaluate potential recovery factor based on data analytics algorithm which has been calibrated to good performing oil reservoirs of Malaysia. However, for reservoirs with gas cap, the benchmark recovery factor has been observed to be overestimated. This necessitated requirement of a correction factor to be included in tool algorithm for benchmark recovery estimation in oil reservoirs with a gas cap.

For reservoirs having current pressure below original bubble point, correction factor is being applied for opportunity validation to account for changes in fluid PVT properties (SPE-202459). For gas-cap reservoirs, an additional correction factor needs to be computed to account for reduction in recovery factor due to presence of gas-cap. This paper describes the methodology for computation of correction factor for gas-cap reservoirs which involves three key steps. Step-1 focuses on selection of key reservoir parameters which may impact oil recovery under water flood mechanism in gas cap reservoirs. Step-2 outlines generation of test experiments with a range of values of identified reservoir parameters that can be used as a sample database of results. Step-3 defines a proxy equation using reservoir parameters and obtaining a good match to actual test results for correlation validation. With these three steps, a correlation has been developed for estimation of correction factor.

This paper illustrates the methodology of computing this correction factor through application of simple simulation models for test experiments and generation of proxy equations using data analysis tools of python and numerical simulation applications. The paper also outlines the impact of this correction to opportunity volumes identified through benchmarking tool in Malaysian reservoirs.

Although the methodology has been developed for correction to benchmark recovery factor, it can also be applied to other oil reservoirs as well. In addition, this correlation also provides a quick assessment of recovery factor for water flood application in a gas cap reservoir.
Exceeding the Limits by an Integrated Workflow to Optimize Hydraulic Fracturing Treatments to Achieve Highest Sustained Oil Production Rate in Tight Carbonate Mauddud Reservoir, East Kuwait
Authors: AlRagheeb S. , AlNaqi A. , AlZaabi R. , Jalan S. , AlAjmi S. , Naik V. , AlMazeedi H. , Hassan H. , AlKandari Y. , Behbehani H. , Ali A. , AlAli B. , AlMukaizeem K. , Kamal A. , Salem A. , Peiwu L. , Elsebaee M. , Zacharia J. , Ayyad H.
Published: September 2024

Mauddud reservoir in Greater Burgan field is a thin, tight carbonate cretaceous reservoir. Sustaining the production has been always a challenge for the past few decades. Objective of this paper is to share the knowledge of a new innovative and integrated workflow which allowed to achieve the highest and the most sustainable production in the history of the reservoir.

An integrated production enhancement study has broken the field historical production record for the tight Mauddud in East Kuwait. The integrated workflow and analysis among petrophysics, reservoir, well integrity, geology, and production and stimulation domains has proven success to achieve the best results for such a challenging reservoir. By running data gap analysis and identifying the right candidates through advanced characterization cased hole technologies like advanced cased hole Sonic log to map nearby open fractures and stresses magnitude and direction, acid fracturing treatments were designed and optimized accordingly utilizing a fit-for-purpose treatment fluid and diverter.

Most of the wells perforated across Mauddud were originally completed for deeper reservoirs and are only transferred to Mauddud post sweeping out the deeper reservoirs. Therefore, the well placement, completion, trajectory, and logs are not optimized for the tight Mauddud reservoir since it was not the primary objective of drilling the well.

Earlier multiple approaches were conducted utilizing different techniques such as matrix acidizing treatments, radial drilling, fishbone completion and many more to recover oil from this tight Mauddud reservoir. However, the results were unsustainable, and the wells ceased to flow in less than a month.

In the new process, across 6 existing wells, oil production increased from nearly zero to over 6,000 BOPD after multiple victorious hydraulic fracturing treatments accurately engineered based on the cased hole evaluation study and results. Advanced cased hole Sonic log utilized for generating 1D geo-mechanical properties, and core lab data and analysis used for designing the optimum frac recipe.

This paper demonstrates the capability of advanced technologies coupled with unique multi-domain integration to unlock the potential of complex tight carbonate and heterogenous reservoirs.
Innovative Methods for Drilling Extended Reach Wells in Challenging Reservoirs
Authors: Hashmi Muhammad Asef
Published: September 2024

ERD (Extended Reach Drilling) and MRC (Maximum Reservoir Contact) wells are classified by the ratio of measured depth (MD) to true vertical depth (TVD). Wells with a ratio above 2 are defined as ERD wells, and those with a horizontal hole length exceeding about 8,000 to 9,000 feet are considered MRC wells. Various factors drive the need for such well designs, including surface locations, geopolitical situations, environmental impact, and government-defined sensitive areas.

The subject well qualifies as both ERD and MRC, with a measured depth of 37,600 feet (MD) and a true vertical depth of 8,979 feet (TVD), resulting in an ERD ratio of 4.188. Horizontal wells offer a better productivity index than vertical or deviated wells but designing and planning these wells present significant challenges. It is crucial to balance reservoir exposure and well profile to maximize productivity. The primary advantage of drilling an EMRC (Extended Maximum Reservoir Contact) well is placing it in the most productive part of the reservoir, especially in thin oil reservoirs with gas caps. However, real-time geo-steering requires numerous reactive adjustments to manage drilling and subsurface requirements, which can sometimes limit accessibility for post-drilling activities and reduce rigless options. The subject well was planned with a limited entry liner, necessitating careful planning to ensure well accessibility for lower completion.

Mitigation was best achieved by visualizing and simulating subsurface geometry and making proactive, smooth alterations rather than aggressively geo-steering the well in search of the oil-water contact (OWC). Planning this extensive ERD well involved directional planning, bit and BHA design, hole cleaning calculations, directional control points/formation markers, and mud design.
Application of Autonomous Inflow Control Valve Technology for Ultralight Oil in a Mature Field in Malaysia
Authors: Ng N. , Siew C. , Nasir H. , Rahman R. , Ali A. , Deris N. Mat , Zulhairi S. B. , Samah F. Abu , Hillis F. , Ismail I. Mohd , Bandara Y.
Published: September 2024

Kinabalu field is a mature field which has been in production since 1998 and faces significant challenges with excessive gas and water production issues. The presence of a large gas cap and moderate aquifer strength in this reservoir results in early water and gas breakthroughs which reduced the oil production and recovery due to poor influx distribution along the wellbore.

Due to the unique feature of the Autonomous Inflow Control Valve (AICV) which operates autonomously in ultra-light oil, two Kinabalu wells were completed with AICV joints and annular isolation packers for compartmentalization of production intervals. AICV technology is based on the difference in the pressure drop in a laminar flow element (LFE) compared to a turbulent flow element (TFE) and has the capability to shut-off the main flow autonomously when an unwanted fluid such as water or gas breakthrough occurs.

This paper presents the key design aspects for designing the AICV application including reservoir characterization, flow modeling, and selection of appropriate valve configurations. Besides, the comparison between pre and post AICV application will also be discussed and explained.

In the first part, the calibrated subsurface simulation was used to model the fluid flow to determine the most optimum AICV installation. It involves the understanding of how to distribute the AICVs and isolation packers within the horizontal well section. It is crucial to ensure the balance between pressure drawdown and maximum fluid flow for each compartment designed.

Next, the design was re-optimized once the post drilling logs were available. The actual permeability and saturation logs were analyzed and used as the key input. In this case study, the packers were placed in the low permeability zones to maximize the effect of zonal isolation. Besides, additional packers were also being installed at the heel of the high permeability zone to control the unwanted gas breakthrough.

The post-installation performance evaluation showed that AICV managed to choke back gas. The updated post drilling subsurface model was discussed to predict the performance of AICV installed. The paper shed some light on the actual field experience and interesting lessons learned to be considered for AICV application for very thin prolific oil sand.
Optimisation of the Smart Plunger Lift Work System and a New Method for Diagnosing Working Conditions
Authors: Xing Zhisheng , Han Guoqing , Cao Guangqiang , Yang Zhenhua , Chen Huapeng , Liang Xingyuan
Published: September 2024

Liquid loading in natural gas wells is a widespread problem worldwide. The plunger lift is one of the most effective methods for deliquification. The smart plunger, as a novel technology, is equipped with sensors at the plunger bottom to monitor pressure and temperature at each production stage. In recent years, numerous scholars have proposed optimization methods for plunger lift work system. However, most of these methods rely on theoretical calculations and fail to consider actual reservoir conditions, resulting in significant discrepancies between calculated outcomes and real-world observations. Also, the working condition of the plunger lift is monitored by changes in tubing and casing pressure, which cannot diagnose complex situations such as wellbore waxing and blockages. In this study, a judgment diagram referring to working condition is established using real-time data from wellhead tubing and casing pressure, and an optimization method for the smart plunger work system is proposed based on the dynamic prediction of reservoir conditions. This approach combines theoretical calculations with field data and uses real-time measurements, adjusting the theoretical calculations to get more accurate dynamic reservoir predictions than traditional optimization methods for plunger lift. Additionally, the smart plunger can automatically adjust the work system through programming. Moreover, based on the sensor data of the smart plunger, a plunger position versus pressure "Dynamometer card" has been proposed, which can more effectively identify faulty plunger lift conditions. This method can accurately identify previously undetectable conditions such as wellbore waxing and downstroke oscillations. The optimization and condition diagnosis of the plunger lift system requires manual tracking to make timely adjustments work system. However, the current process is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and lacks intelligence. For this condition, the smart plunger can provide real-time adjustment of the work system and condition diagnosis, significantly improving deliquification performance and extending the plunger's service life.
Acid Treatment Challenges and Solutions in Sandstone Formation with Various Formation Damages
Authors: Pham Hoanh V. , Tran Minh H. , Phan Hiep V. , Sanchez Juan P. , Nguyen Thang T.
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a systematic approach to design acid treatment for a well that was successfully completed into a sandstone formation initially had a high production rate of nearly 5,000 barrels of oil per day for approximately 50 days, then experienced a sharp decline to less than 1,000 barrels of liquid per day, at the same time as the water cut increased. A thorough investigation was performed to identify the damage mechanisms, followed by matrix acid stimulation, to enhance productivity. Following the initial acid treatment aimed at removing downhole scale, the well productivity index increased from 0.2 stbpd/psi to 0.4 stbpd/psi. A further treatment targeting the removal of fines migration resulted in a stable productivity of 0.7 stbpd/psi one month after the acid treatment, and the well is currently producing at approximately 3.2 stbpd/psi, close to its initial productivity before the sharp decline. This case study can serve as a reference for other acid treatments aimed for sandstone formation under similar conditions.
Pore-Scale Modeling of Low Salinity Water Flooding in Porous Media Using the Lattice Boltzmann Method
Authors: Liu Fangzhou , Wang Daigang , Hu Zhe , Song Kaoping , Chen Jin , Zhou Yang , Niu Wenjuan
Published: September 2024

Low salinity water flooding (LSWF) is an emerging technique for enhancing oil recovery (EOR) by modifying the ion composition or concentration of injected water. A large number of indoor experiments and field applications have confirmed that LSWF can effectively alter the wettability of rocks, thereby enhancing oil recovery during secondary and tertiary oil recovery stages. LSWF presents notable advantages compared to alternative EOR techniques, including its straightforward implementation, low costs, and environmentally friendliness. However, due to the complex interface reactions involved in LSWF, which is a coupling of multiple physical and chemical fields, there is still no consensus on the mechanism of this technology. In addition, there have been numerous cases of ineffectiveness in field applications. To address the aforementioned concerns, this paper proposes a lattice Boltzmann model (LBM) to simulate LSWF. The model employs the Shan Chen multiphase flow LBM model to simulate oil-water flow, while employing the passive solute method to simulate the convective diffusion process of low salinity water. At each time step, the Shan Chen model is used to solve the two-phase flow equation and calculate the main macroscopic variables. Subsequently, the advection-diffusion equation is solved to calculate the concentration field. Finally, the host program is returned for the next time step calculation. In order to verify the accuracy of the model, the simulation data is compared and validated with publicly available LSWF experimental data. Based on the lattice Boltzmann numerical model for LSWF, the calculation of microscale oil-water distribution and relative permeability curves is conducted, allowing the analysis of the microscopic processes of fluid flow and wettability alteration in porous media. The results demonstrate that the lattice Boltzmann numerical model for LSWF can accurately describe the microscopic process of wettability alteration, which is in good agreement with experimental observations. The numerical value of relative permeability depends on the pore geometry and the interaction between the two-phase fluids. Low salinity water exerts a certain regulatory effect on wettability, mainly caused by local adsorption-desorption imbalance. It effectively strips off a portion of oil films adhering to the rock but does not alter the primary flow paths. The microscopic low salinity water flooding model established in this paper achieves coupling of multiple physical fields, effectively characterizes the physical and chemical processes of oil-water two-phase flow, wetting alteration and solute adsorption-desorption. This elucidates the microscale flow mechanisms and influencing patterns for enhancing oil recovery through LSWF.
A Strategic Approach to Significant Cost Reduction Through Advanced Souring Forecasting Modelling and High-Pressure Bioreactors in H2S Production Management
Authors: Streets M. D. T. , Eden R. D.
Published: September 2024

Microbial oilfield reservoir souring, characterised by the contamination of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in production fluids, continues to pose significant challenges to operators worldwide. Understanding the likelihood and severity of sour gas production throughout the life of any oilfield asset involves computer modelling and quantitative laboratory-based simulation studies. Where significant sulfide generation is forecast, low sulfate water injection may be considered, often in conjunction with a scale mitigation treatment strategy. In some cases however, significant microbial activity in the downhole formation is limited due to extreme environmental conditions, restricting the geomicrobiological generation of sulfide species.

This paper will present output data from souring forecasting and modelling analysis of a high-pressure, high-temperature West African offshore asset, using the DynamicTVS© model. In addition, data from high-pressure bioreactor studies, designed to evaluate microbiological sulfide generation under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, will be shared to support the conclusions that microbial souring would be negligible under simulated reservoir conditions.

More than 10 years on, the asset modelled remains ‘sweet’ following years of observed injection water breakthrough from all production wells, and the Operator continues to focus on relatively low-cost monitoring and chemical control of problematic biofouling at the topsides facilities.
Longitudinal changes of refraction and visual acuity in children with early-onset high myopia
Authors: Han Xiaotong , Yu Wenlu , Zhang Shiran , Zhang Jiaqing , Xie Xiaohang , Zeng Yangfa , Luo LiXia , Tan Xuhua
Published: September 2024

Objectives
To investigate the longitudinal changes of refraction and visual acuity in children with early-onset high myopia (eoHM).
Methods
We retrospectively included children with eoHM, defined as cycloplegic spherical equivalent (SE) ≤ − 6.00 D or axial length (AL) ≥ 26mm in both eyes in children under 7 years old, who had at least three visits with available cycloplegic autorefraction records based on the electronic medical records (EMR) at the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center between 2003 to 2023. Data on children’s demographic and clinical characteristics, including age, sex, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and presence of strabismus were also extracted from the EMR.
Results
A total of 930 children were included (median baseline age: 4.33 years, interquartile range [IQR], 3.42 to 5.25 years, 64.84% boys). The median baseline spherical equivalent (SE) was − 8.25D (IQR, -10.00D to -7.00D), and the median duration of follow-up was 2.85 years (IQR, 2.03 to 3.57 years). The mean myopia progression rate was − 0.33 (SD, 0.37) D/year, with 298 children (32.04%) demonstrated myopia progression of ≥ 0.50D/year. Older age (ß= -0.041, P < 0.001), boys (ß= -0.067, P = 0.012), and less myopic at baseline (ß= -0.013, P = 0.021) were associated with faster myopia progression. The percentage of children with BCVA > 0.5 (20/40) ranged from 11.27% among the 4-year-olds to 73.58% among the 8-year-olds.
Conclusion
In this real-world hospital-based dataset, two-thirds of children with eoHM do not experience rapid myopia progression. Boys, children with older age and less myopic SE at baseline are more likely to experience faster myopia progression.
Climate Variability Analysis and Forecasting Rainfall and Temperature Trends- SARIMAX Model Application for Mango farmers of Muthalamada Region, Kerala, India
Authors: Smitha John K , S Suchithra M. , K Archana , Sojan Aida Treesa , B. Remya E. , N Manikandan , U Surendran
Published: September 2024

With climate change becoming increasingly evident, understanding how it affects local weather patterns is crucial. Such kind of studies provide valuable insights into how rainfall and temperature variability are changing over time, helping communities adapt to shifting climate conditions with respect to their agricultural practices. This study examines the trends in rainfall and temperature in Muthalamada, Kerala, using statistical trend analysis and forecasting using SARIMAX modeling techniques. Rainfall data spanning from 1981 to 2022 indicates an upward trend in both Chulliyar and Meenkara regions, with varying patterns across seasons. The wettest month consistently was July, while the southwest monsoon contributed significantly to annual rainfall. Predictions for the next decade suggest an increase in rainfall for both regions, except for winter. Temperature analysis reveals an upward trend in maximum and minimum temperatures across all seasons, with strong implications for mango cultivation. Maximum temperatures are anticipated to rise slightly in summer and winter but decrease in post-monsoon and pre-monsoon seasons, affecting mango flowering and fruit set. Conversely, minimum temperatures are expected to decrease across all seasons. Relative humidity is projected to increase during post-monsoon and southwest monsoon but decrease in other seasons, impacting pest populations. The performance of the SARIMAX model was evaluated using various metrics such as correlation coefficient (r), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE). The analysis revealed overall accurate predictions for rainfall, temperature, and humidity, with some variability across seasons. Model performance evaluation indicates accurate predictions for rainfall, temperature, and humidity, with implications for mango farming. Implementation of appropriate mitigation strategies is crucial for Muthalamada mango farmers to adapt to climate variability and enhance production and export potential.
An automatic integrated microfluidic device for DNA extraction using electric valves
Authors: Shamloo Amir , Dezhkam Rasool , Eskandarisani Mohammadmahdi , Topaheidari Mohammadmahdi , Mirlohi Maryam Sadat , Pishbin Esmail
Published: September 2024

Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) is a molecule containing genetic instructions that influences the development and function of living organisms. Understanding DNA and its properties is essential for various analytical techniques, such as DNA sequencing, and genetic testing. DNA extraction is a fundamental process that allows scientists to access the genetic information in DNA. There are various methods for DNA extraction from a biological sample which cell lysis and DNA purification are two common steps of them. The chemical cell lysis is selected for this study and a passive micromixer has the microreactor role to mix the lysis buffer and input sample. Also, a silica-based filter is selected for DNA purification. Different units of DNA extraction method are integrated into the fabricated device which includes mixing, lysis and DNA extraction microfluidic chips which are assembled on a chip and form a lab-on-a-chip system that are connected together using electric valves (To open/close system valves to change the flow of different fluids). To optimize the device different parameters including fluid velocity, filter thickness, temperature and cell concentration were studied and the DNA concentration for the optimum values was introduced for 2.5 million cells per milliliter at 65˚C with one silica filter and a vacuum chamber with 25 milliliters. The highest yield for extracted DNA was reported at 147±36 ng/μl, which had a ~90% extraction efficiency in comparison with the reference DNA extraction kit. Finally, the quality of seven samples of extracted DNA from the device was studied using PCR and Gel electrophoresis tests.
Effect of topical gentamicin in preventing surgical site infection in elective incisional hernia repair: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hidalgo Nils Jimmy , Juvany Montserrat , Guillaumes Salvador , Hoyuela Carlos , Vidal Óscar , Pera Miguel
Published: September 2024

Surgical site infection (SSI) continues to be a common complication of surgery. The real benefit of using topical antibiotics for the prevention of SSI in abdominal hernia repair surgery is still unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of topical gentamicin in SSI prophylaxis in incisional hernia repair with mesh. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in patients undergoing open incisional hernia repair. Patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups: in the gentamicin group, each layer of the abdominal wall was irrigated with gentamicin solution before wound closure, and in the saline solution group (placebo), each layer of the abdominal wall was irrigated with normal saline solution. The incidence of SSI and other surgical site complications was compared between both groups, and the presence of adverse effects with the use of topical gentamicin. Data from 146 patients were included for analysis: 74 in the gentamicin group and 72 in the saline solution group. SSI was observed in six patients (8.1%) in the gentamicin group and eight patients (11.1%) in the saline solution group, with no significant differences (p = 0.538) between both groups. No statistically significant differences were observed in the presentation of seroma, hematoma, and surgical wound dehiscence between both groups. No adverse effects were reported from topical application of gentamicin. In this clinical trial, the use of topical gentamicin in incisional hernia repair with mesh did not significantly reduce the incidence of SSI. EU Clinical Trials Register: EudraCT 2018-001860-45 (04/07/2019).
Digital Versus Conventional Techniques for Construction of Mandibular Implant Retained Overdenture
Authors: Musi Abd Elsalam Awad , Habib Ahmed Ali , Shady Mohamed
Published: September 2024

Background: This study aimed to evaluate two different construction techniques (conventional and 3D-printed techniques) for two implant-retained complete mandibular overdentures regarding mechanical wear of the occlusal surface using 3D digital analysis andocclusion force distribution using the digital occlusal analysis system (Occlusense).
Methods: Twenty patients were selected for this study from the prosthetic department, Faculty of Dentistry, Mansoura University. The sample size was determined based on the results of previous clinical trial with (effect size = 1.1, α = 0.05, β =0.90). The calculated sample was 20. The power analysis was performed with the aid of computer software (G*power 3.1.5, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Germany). Balanced randomization was used to equally assigned patients to one of two groups using to ensure comparability between groups. The participants were randomly assigned into two groups using random numbers generated in an Excel spreadsheet.Each patient received two implants in the mandibular canine areas with locator attachments to retain the overdentures. According to the overdenture construction technique, all patients were classified into two equal groups: the conventional heat polymerized overdenture group and the 3D-printed overdenture group. The mandibular overdentures were compared and evaluated immediately and after 12 months of insertion regarding mechanical wear of the occlusal surface using 3D digital analysis and occlusal force distribution using a digital occlusal analysis system (Occlusense).
Results: 3d printed group showed significantly higher occlusal surface wear than conventional group after twelve months (T12) with a p value ≤ 0.05.
3d printed group showed significantly more occlusal force distribution than conventional group with a p value ≤ 0.05. Also, there was a significant difference in occlusal force distribution with advance of time for each group, with a p value ≤0.05 level of a significance.
Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it was shown that implant overdentures constructed by conventional techniques show superior results regarding mechanical wear of the occlusal surface compared to 3D-printing techniques. However, 3D-printing techniques offer a promising result compared to conventional techniques for the construction of implant overdentures regarding occlusal force distribution.
Trial registration: The study was approved by the local ethical committee of the Faculty of Dentistry, Mansoura University (No. A02060922) and retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06139003 ) (16/11/2023).
Capacity Building goals in young people with cerebral palsy in Australia: Analysis of publicly available National Disability Insurance Scheme data
Authors: Ding Jacqueline Y , Cleary Stacey L , Morgan Prue E
Published: September 2024

Background
The Australian National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) aims to provide person- centred care for individuals with disabilities, promoting independence and participation in society. Young adults with cerebral palsy (CP) benefit from Capacity Building supports, which are critical for developing skills necessary across the lifespan.
Methods
A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted using publicly available NDIS Participant and Payment datasets from the June 2023 Quarter. Data were extracted for young adults with CP aged 15–34 years and characteristics and funding allocation for Capacity Building goals examined. Comparisons of Capacity Building characteristics were made between NDIS participants with CP and NDIS participants with Down syndrome and Spinal Cord Injury (SCI).
Results
Overall, 99.5% (n = 6,273) of NDIS participants aged 15–34 with CP identified at least one Capacity Building goal, totalling 110,234 goals. Average annual payments for Capacity Building supports for NDIS participants with CP increased with age, from $27,000 for 15-18-year-olds to $59,000 for 25-34-year-olds. The most frequent Capacity Building goals identified by young adults with CP were ‘Daily Living’, ‘Social and Community Participation’, and ‘Health and Wellbeing’. The analysis highlighted variations in the type and funding allocation of Capacity Building supports accessed by young adults with CP compared to their peers with Down syndrome and SCI.
Conclusion
This study emphasises variations in NDIS funding allocation for young adults with CP during the transition into adulthood; tailored funding strategies are required to meet the evolving needs of people aging with CP. Individualised goal setting and personalised supports align with international best practices for disability supports, fostering independence and enhancing quality of life. Further research is needed to explore the short and long-term outcomes of NDIS-funded supports, ensure equitable resource distribution, and advance global discussions on inclusive policies that enable full participation for people with disabilities.
Advancing the updated MRC Framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions with integrated implementation conceptual knowledge: An example using NeuroRehabilitation OnLine (NROL)
Authors: Connell Louise , Ackerley Suzanne , Rycroft-Malone Jo
Published: September 2024

Background
Implementation involves complex interventions, hence the updated Medical Research Council (MRC) framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions (2021) is one approach implementation scientists could use to guide their research. However, despite extensive citations, there is limited evidence of how it has been used in its entirety and little integration with relevant implementation conceptual knowledge. To address this, we provide a novel example of using the updated MRC framework, uniquely demonstrating the potential for incorporating implementation science frameworks, strategies and outcomes. This example uses a telerehabilitation intervention, NeuroRehabilitation OnLine (NROL), implemented within an existing healthcare system.
Methods
Within a clinical-academic partnership we completed the MRC Framework checklist, and context was described using the updated Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). We used a deliberative process to operationalise the MRC phases: adaptation of NROL based on the ADAPT guidance and establishing feasibility of NROL through concurrent implementation and evaluation. Phases are described in two iterations: within a single service, then when scaled-up as a regional innovation. Stakeholders were involved throughout. Implementation strategies were identified using the CFIR-ERIC matching tool. Selected Proctor’s implementation outcomes were evaluated.
Results
The MRC framework provided a useful structure when applied iteratively to address key uncertainties for the implementation, and considerations for sustainability, of the complex intervention NROL. Context description was crucial for phase-specific considerations across iterations. An additional sustainment phase was added to the framework, reflecting that the value proposition discussions with decision-makers inevitably culminated in decision-points. This guided decision-making for NROL to be scaled-up. Implementation Research Logic Models were co-produced and iterated to depict programme theory and formalise integration of implementation conceptual knowledge.
Conclusion
We provide a novel example of the application of the updated MRC framework being described in full, and to our knowledge is the first to comprehensively integrate implementation conceptual knowledge. Synergistic in nature, the MRC framework benefitted the conceptualisation of implementation through use of its phases, and implementation science knowledge was useful in enacting the core elements within the MRC framework. In this example, we emphasised sustainability throughout and include a distinct ‘Sustainment’ phase to advance the MRC framework.
A metabolomics-based study of serum biomarkers in adolescents with nonsuicidal self-injury
Authors: Qin Xuerong , Su Wei , Li Cuiping , Li Qin , Li Jin , Sun Baomin , Zhang Wangxin
Published: September 2024

Objective: This study aims to elucidate the metabolite profiles in the serum of adolescents engaging in non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) by employing high-resolution, non-targeted metabolomics. The objectives include differentiating metabolites between the NSSI group and a normal control group, identifying biomarkers of clinical diagnostic value, and utilising these differential metabolites to pinpoint key metabolic pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of NSSI through bioinformatics analyses.
Methods: The sample consisted of 39 NSSI patients, aged 13-22 years, presenting at the outpatient clinic of the Department of Psychiatry, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University from January 2022 to December 2023, with initial, untreated NSSI. Additionally, 24 healthy adolescents were conscripted from the community. Participants were matched for age, gender, and BMI. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) facilitated non-target metabolomic analysis. Multivariate statistical analyses, amalgamating univariate and multivariate approaches, enabled the discrimination of differential metabolites and the extraction of biomarkers. Concurrently, bioinformatics evaluation of these metabolites was undertaken to annotate pertinent metabolic pathways.
Results:
In cationic mode, 235 differential metabolites were discerned, with 133 upregulated and 102 downregulated in the NSSI cohort. Anionic mode identified 66 differential metabolites; among these, 14 were upregulated and 52 were downregulated.
KEGG pathway annotations yielded 311 pathways, encompassing 158 cationic and 153 anionic pathways. Significantly enriched and high-degree KEGG pathways included aromatase deficiency, 17-β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase III deficiency, nadolol's mechanism of action, timosartan's mechanism of action, androgen and estrogen metabolism, α-linolenic and linoleic acid metabolism in the cationic mode, and nicotinic acid and nicotinamide metabolism in the anionic mode.
Substances such as phenylalanine, glycine, aspartic acid, asparagine, threonine, histidine, tyrosine, arginine, isoleucine, proline, N-acetylthreonine, glutamine, organic acids and their derivatives, cyclopropene, glycerophospholipids, fatty acylcarnitines, geldanamycin, and cycloprostenol were paramount in distinguishing NSSI patients from healthy controls and exhibited the highest predictive power.
Conclusion: Metabolic perturbations characterise NSSI patients, with elevated or diminished levels of substances like phenylalanine, glycine, aspartic acid, asparagine, threonine, histidine, tyrosine, arginine, isoleucine, proline, N-acetylthreonine, glutamine, and others significantly contributing to this distinction. These findings underscore the potential of metabolic biomarkers in understanding and predicting NSSI.
Can Loneliness be Predicted? Development of a Risk Prediction Model for Loneliness among Elderly Chinese: A Study Based on CLHLS
Authors: Lin Youbei , Li Chuang , Li Hongyu , Wang Xiuli
Published: September 2024

Background: Loneliness is prevalent among the elderly, worsened by global aging trends. It impacts mental and physiological health. Traditional scales for measuring loneliness may be biased due to cognitive decline and varying definitions. Machine learning advancements offer potential improvements in risk prediction models.
Methods: Data from the 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS), involving over 16,000 participants aged ≥65 years, were used. The study examined the relationships between loneliness and factors such as cognitive function, functional limitations, living conditions, environmental influences, age-related health issues, and health behaviors. Using R 4.4.1, seven predictive models were developed: logistic regression, ridge regression, support vector machines, K-nearest neighbors, decision trees, random forests, and multi-layer perceptron. Models were evaluated based on ROC curves, accuracy, precision, recall, F1 scores, and AUC.
Results: Loneliness prevalence among elderly Chinese was 23.4%. Analysis identified 16 predictive factors and evaluated seven models. Logistic regression was the most effective model for predicting loneliness risk due to its economic and operational advantages.
Conclusion: The study found a 23.4% prevalence of loneliness among elderly individuals in China. SHAP values indicated that higher MMSE scores correlate with lower loneliness levels. Logistic regression was the superior model for predicting loneliness risk in this population.
Arterial spin labeling can distinguish between ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack in intracranial stenosis more easily than high- resolution MRI
Authors: Li Ling , Tang Min , Zhang Jing , Zhang Na , Wen Yu , Ai Kai , Zhang Xiaoling , Lei Xiaoyan , Yan Xuejiao
Published: September 2024

Purpose
We aimed to investigate differential characteristics of plaque in the middle cerebral artery (MCA) and hemodynamics in patients with ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA), and to compare the ability of high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HRMRI) and arterial spin labeling (ASL) to diagnose ischemic stroke.
Methods
In this retrospective analysis of patients with ischemic events who underwent HRMRI and ASL imaging between October 2020 and December 2023, clinical risk factors, vascular plaque characteristics, and the presence and characteristics of arterial transit artifacts (ATAs) at post-labeling delays (PLDs) of 1.5 s and 2.5 s were compared between stroke and TIA groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of different prediction models combining clinical factors, differential plaque characteristics, and the presence of PLD ATAs.
Results
147 patients (mean age, 57.12 ± 13.08 years; 102 men) were initially included in this study, included 79 and 68 patients from the ischemic stroke and TIA groups. There were significant differences in vascular positive remodeling, intraplaque hemorrhage, enhancement ratio and the presence of 1.5-s and 2.5-s ATAs (p < 0.05) between the two groups. Combined HRMRI and ASL performed best in distinguishing ischemic stroke and TIA(area under the curve [AUC], 0.926; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.885 − 0.967), while there was no significant difference in ischemic stroke diagnostic performance between HRMRI and ASL (95% CI, -0.039 to 0.087, Z = 0.742, p = 0.458).
Conclusion
ASL allows simpler imaging assessment than HRMRI to distinguish between TIA and stroke in patients with intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis. A model combining plaque characteristics and hemodynamic differences showed good performance. And ATAs assessments may become a more widely used imaging marker in clinical practice.
Navigating Chronic Uncertainty: A Theory Synthesis for Nursing Communication in Life-limiting illness
Authors: Grant Julie , Johnson-Koenke Rachel
Published: September 2024

Background
Despite the proven benefits of early palliative care and national initiatives to increase access, patient communication regarding these services remains elusive. Many theories in the fields of health communication, psychology, and medicine offer valuable insights for early palliative care and uncertainty communication. While these various fields study communication and have developed communication theories, the discipline of nursing must also recognize and research its unique communicatory role. Therefore, this paper aims to a) provide a comprehensive literature review on nurse palliative care communication addressing chronic uncertainty in life-limiting illness, b) define the Reconceptualization of Uncertainty in illness Theory (RUIT) and Problematic Integration Theory (PIT) within a nursing Unitary Caring Science (UCS) worldview and, c) synthesize these theories and literature review into a unique conceptual framework for early palliative care communication in nursing.
Method
Turner’s theory synthesis methodology was combined with a comprehensive PRISMA literature review to produce an overarching framework that transcends and interprets existing theories. The literature search was conducted in July of 2023 and updated in May 2024 using Pubmed, PsychINFO, and EBSCOhost databases. A second literature search was undertaken to identify applicable uncertainty theories in chronic or LLIs. This theory-oriented search used health communication and nursing theory textbooks, reference chaining from our first comprehensive literature review, and keyword searches of applicable theories in Pubmed, PsychINFO, and EBSCOhost databases.
Results
This theory synthesis highlights the integrality of all facets of uncertainty for those living with severe life-limiting illnesses (personal factors, types of uncertainty, and the nursing communicatory process) and conceptualizes uncertainty communication as a series of events happening simultaneously, not simply a cause-and-effect process.
Discussion
The framework resulting from this synthesis encourages nurses' holistic understanding of the complex nature of uncertainty in life-limiting illness, highlights the integral communicatory role nurses have in their patients’ health and wellness, and promotes further nursing-specific communication research. Future implementation nursing research focusing on enabling nurse-initiated early palliative care communication will support patients' values and dignity throughout more than a single hospital stay but their entire disease trajectory.
Crucial Role of Telomere Maintenance-Related Genes in Survival Prediction and Subtype Identification in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Huang Feng , Zhao Wei Guo , Li Zhuo Ya , Fong Jung Yin , Okechukwu Patrick Nwabueaze , Ng Chin Tat , Venkatachalam Karthik Kumar , Alshawsh Mohammed Abdullah , Letchumanan Vengadesh , Selvaraja Malarvili
Published: September 2024

Telomere maintenance genes are closely related to colorectal cancer (CRC) development and progression. However, the potential influence of telomere maintenance-related genes (TMRGs) on the prognosis of CRC and their clinical relevance remains insufficiently explored. Utilizing mRNA expression data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we developed a risk model with three telomere maintenance-related biomarkers (PDE1B, TFAP2B, and HSPA1A). Then, the risk score, pathologic N, pathologic M, and age were identified as independent prognostic factor. Through the integration of model risk score with clinical information, we drew a nomogram to predict the survival outcomes of patients with CRC. We further divided the patients into two risk subgroups. Concomitantly, an in-depth analysis of the immuno-infiltration, functional variation and drug sensitivity analysis were performed in two risk subgroups. Ultimately, we experimentally validated the impact of PDE1B in CRC cell lines. The qPCR results showed expression level of PDE1B in CRC cells were lower than the control cells, which was consistent with gene expression analysis by the UALCAN database. Overexpression of PDE1B in CRC cells significantly inhibited proliferation, metastasis, while promoted apoptosis in vitro. In conculsion, three telomere maintenance-related biomarkers and effective prognostic model was developed to provide a basis for exploring the prediction of prognosis of CRC. Different subtypes can be utilized to further subdivide the CRC patient for a more precise treatment plan. Our study suggests that PDE1B may serve as both a biomarker and a therapeutic target for CRC.
Assessing Progress Towards SDG 4: Examining Education Accessibility in Somaliland using Data from the 2022 National Education Accessibility Survey and the Proportion of Out-of-School Children
Authors: Muse Yahye Hassan , Abdi Mustafe Khadar , Hassan Mukhtar Abdi , Ali Jibril Abdulkadir , Ali Tawakal Abdi , Cumar Mukhtaar Axmed , Muse Abdisalam Hassan
Published: September 2024

The challenges faced by economically disadvantaged nations, particularly in Somaliland, regarding equal access to education are the focus of this study. By analyzing data from the 2022 National Education Accessibility Survey (NEAS), the research aims to uncover the factors influencing educational accessibility, aligning with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 4, which emphasizes inclusive and quality education. Several significant determinants are identified, including the age group and size of the household, region, location type, sex of household head, occupation, income sources for school fees, and housing type. The findings highlight the obstacles faced by older individuals and larger households in accessing education, indicating the need for targeted interventions. Disparities between regions and urban-rural areas also have a significant impact on educational accessibility, underscoring the importance of ensuring equitable opportunities across different geographical areas. Occupation, income sources, and housing conditions are identified as influential factors, emphasizing the necessity for policies that address socio-economic barriers. These insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers and stakeholders in their efforts to promote educational equity in Somaliland. Further research should build upon these findings to develop effective strategies that overcome existing barriers and ensure equal educational opportunities for all individuals in the region.