bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Study of Creep Behavior at High Temperature in Different HMPE Fibers Used for Offshore Mooring
Authors: da Cruz D. M. , Barreto M. A. , Zangalli L. B. , Júnior T. L. Popiolek , Guilherme C. E. M.
Published: October 2023

Offshore moorings have been extensively researched in recent decades, and since the introduction of Taut-Leg systems made with synthetic polyester fibers as an alternative to steel catenaries, several fibers have gained significant prominence. High modulus polyethylene (HMPE) stands out due to its superior mechanical resistance and linear tenacity compared to many other fibers. However, it shows challenging behavior in creep, showing high strain rates and low creep resistance. Consequently, manufacturers have focused on developing HMPE fibers typified as "Low Creep," aiming to achieve satisfactory creep behavior and enable offshore mooring systems made entirely of HMPE. Such advancements could lead to the use of HMPE in offshore installations in ultra-deep waters, given its low elongation. The goal of this study is to evaluate the creep behavior of 6 HMPE fibers, including both European and Asian manufactures, with 3 fibers designated as "Low Creep." The evaluation encompasses different load temperature conditions. The experimental approach uses HMPE multifilaments, which serve as the base material for making mooring ropes. The results are compiled in tables, providing initial characterization results and average creep results, including creep strain rates. Creep graphs are drawn to facilitate understanding and comparison of the behaviors, along with a generalized statistical modeling of the creep-rupture surface for each fiber. The results show that the fibers designated as "Low Creep" indeed exhibit significantly better behavior than others, with lower strain rates. Among them, Fibers A and D emerge as the most promising for offshore mooring, showing greater resistance to creep. From a commercial standpoint, Fiber D offers the lowest cost per kg and presents favorable constitutive behaviors in specific operational contexts, as well as better stability with increasing temperature. In terms of future directions, other methodologies linked to the acquired experimental database should be explored, including analytical models and numerical simulations. Additionally, an investigation into sub-ropes and a detailed study of thermal degradation decoupling in the studied phenomenon should be considered for further research.
An Innovative ML Methodology for Property Modeling (EMBER): A Case Study in Buzios Field, Brazil
Authors: Ferreira1 D. J. A.
Published: October 2023

The application of the Embedded Model Estimator (EMBER) petrophysical modeling algorithm allowed for the determination of effective porosity and permeability in the presalt carbonate reservoirs of the Barra Velha Formation located in the Buzios Field, Santos Basin. This sophisticated approach was necessary due to the complex and heterogeneous nature of these reservoirs, which posed challenges for traditional geostatistical methodologies. Effective porosity was modeled using a combination of secondary variables including a facies model, a stratigraphic seismic attribute (acoustic impedance), and a structural seismic attribute (local flatness). Permeability was modeled using the most accurate simulation results obtained for effective porosity. Our findings indicate that the average effective porosity and permeability values were 0.10 v/v and 440 millidarcies (md) respectively, indicating favorable reservoir quality across the entire study area. An analysis of the reservoir properties revealed a vertical trend characterized by a basal section and uppermost section exhibiting high effective porosity and permeability, while an intermediate section displayed lower reservoir properties. The lower section of the formation exhibited greater continuity and is inferred to be the most favorable reservoir interval. The correlation between the modeled results and the blind-test ANP-1 well upscaled properties was found to be significant, demonstrating the predictive capability of the employed algorithm. Furthermore, the EMBER simulations successfully preserved the distribution of upscaled well log properties, further validating the algorithm's accuracy. Finally, an analysis of conditional distributions indicated that the estimation of effective porosity in the basal section of the Barra Velha Formation is subject to higher uncertainty. Therefore, although this interval is considered to possess the most favorable reservoir characteristics, caution should be exercised when making decisions regarding this specific reservoir section.
New Strategy Focused on Costs for Drilling with Losses When Using MPD
Authors: Sales I. M. , Silva R. L. M. , Feijo J. L. Q.
Published: October 2023

Drilling wells in the pre-salt always poses a major operational challenge, directly related to the formation itself and, therefore, inherent to the scenario: fluid losses in carbonate reservoirs.

Due to secondary porosity, pores of varying sizes and distribution are found, which can be small or large, such as in vugs and caves. In addition to secondary porosity, there may be fractures or even microfractures in regions of the reservoir due to the stresses generated by the evaporitic rock structure above the reservoir.

All these characteristics of the pre-salt carbonate reservoir bring a major operational obstacle, which is the circulation loss.

To mitigate these losses or cope with them, different strategies are used, such as having large volumes of drilling fluid available, using Loss Control Materials and/or using Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD). It is important to consider that all these approaches bring additional costs to the operation and can be combined with each other to have the best performance, both in terms of time and cost.

In addition to the financial impact, drilling with losses brings some risks, such as: stuck pipe on account of poor cleaning, kick following a drop in the fluid level in the annulus, fluid exhaustion due to inefficient logistics, among others.

When drilling with MPD, the risks mentioned above are mitigated and the well is better monitored. Thus, the strategy to cure losses in wells with MPD must be reviewed, since, once the risk to well integrity is mitigated, decisions must be based on the strategy that generates the lowest cost.

This article proposes a new vision on the strategy to mitigate losses in wells with MPD, discussing the criticality of losses for well integrity, and recommends a more objective procedure of proposing strategies and decision trees for drilling with fluid losses.
Effects of Silicondioxide Nanomaterial in Enhancing the Performance of Water Based Drilling Mud
Authors: Bataee M. , Rehman A. A. , Rostamian A. , Serasa N. A. S. , Ashena R. , Hamdi Z.
Published: October 2023

With the current high energy demand, oil and gas companies are increasingly exploring unconventional reservoirs. However, these reservoirs pose environmental challenges that hinder conventional drilling fluid usage. This is where nanomaterials come into the picture, offering a solution due to their unique size. Nanomaterials prove effective in overcoming harsh environmental conditions, including high temperature and pressure, enabling the production of oil and gas from these challenging reservoirs. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of silicon dioxide on water-based drilling fluid properties. Initially, a base mud was formulated with careful consideration of solvents to ensure proper dispersion of silicon dioxide. The aim was to achieve complete and homogeneous dispersion of silicon dioxide within the base mud, thereby examining its effects. The findings indicate significant improvements in the water-based mud properties with the inclusion of silicon dioxide. These enhancements include an 18.6% reduction in plastic viscosity, a 31% increase in yield strength, a 25% increase in gel strength, an 18.6% reduction in fluid loss, and a 19.04% reduction in mud cake thickness. The exceptional results stem from the unique structure of silicon dioxide, which demonstrates the potential to elevate water-based mud performance to levels comparable to oil-based mud. The environmental drawbacks of oil-based mud have already been established, coupled with its higher cost compared to water-based mud. However, if water-based mud can achieve comparable effectiveness to its oil-based counterpart, it would lead to a reduction in pollution and significantly lower operational expenses.
Electrification of Offshore Platforms to Reduce Carbon Footprint and Achieve Lower Operational Expenses: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Teixeira A. M. , Bassani G. S. , Maia J. G. S. S. , Interlenghi S. F. , Santos D.S.D. , Novaes L. , Junior R.L. , Marin A. , Rossi J. , Alves R.M.B. , Bresciani A. , Andreotti M. , Hurtado M.
Published: October 2023

Electrification with the use of clean electricity is seen as a key alternative to lower CO2 footprint of E&P sites. In this sense, renewables can be used to generate power onshore which is treated in substations that can be grid-connected and transmitted to offshore fields via submarine transmission cables. The objective of this work is to evaluate the economic feasibility of generating onshore low-cost electricity from renewables and transmitting it to offshore platforms.

This work describes a model for optimizing a renewable energy system based on solar photovoltaics and/or wind energy, where solar and wind profiles are generated according to a described methodology. The model is based on hourly energy balances to account for periods with insufficient energy offer, where power from the grid is used as complement. For a certain grid electricity price, there is an optimum between renewable power generation capacity and grid power consumption. The model calculates the respective size and investment necessary in the renewable power system that minimize overall costs, as well as carbon emissions associated with grid use. The described methods are applied to evaluate the electrification of offshore platforms in the Pre-Salt region using renewable power from shore and comparing with traditional in-situ power generation from fossil fuels. The onshore substation with transmission costs and associated losses are considered to evaluate the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of a platform located at several distances from shore, where LCOE rises as the distance from shore increases.

The analysis reveals the existence of a break-even point where the LCOE from onshore power generation using renewables is equal to the LCOE from conventional in-situ power generation using fossil fuels. Moreover, the incorporation of a carbon penalty for CO2 emissions increases this break-even distance, emphasizing the importance of implementing incentives or policies designed to reduce emissions. In this sense, carbon taxes or other carbon pricing mechanisms enhance the competitiveness of the alternative employing renewable power from shore in comparison to in-situ power generation from fossil fuels.
On the Impact of Temporal Resolution on Nonlinear Model Accuracy for Predicting Wear Due to Solid Particle Erosion in Digital Twins of Oil and Gas Equipment
Authors: Pauli G. , Demay M. B. , Mata A. M. da , Rodrigues S. , Xavier J. M. , Oliveira Braga J. de , Donatelli G. D. , Margotti E.
Published: October 2023

The use of mathematical models in conjunction with sensor data in digital twins provides a powerful tool to optimize performance, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Nevertheless, the reliability of model estimations depends on a careful consideration of the specific requirements of the system, the quality of the sensor data, and the level of technical expertise required to implement and validate those models. In this sense, two issues play a relevant role: the input data sampling frequency and the model estimation frequency. Since there are several data sources, like sensors, test and project data, each one with its own acquisition configuration, the input parameters are obtained with different time intervals. Some of them, such as process data, can be acquired in millisecond intervals, while laboratory data, in intervals of several months. On the other hand, slow dynamic phenomena such as erosion and corrosion do not require high model estimation frequency, which may demand a huge amount of computational resources for storage and processing. Hence, the implementation of digital twins demands the conditioning of the input data with algorithms like averages, resampling and interpolation, which may lead to different model estimations, according to the parameters used in the estimation. This paper explores the influence of different frequencies of partial calculations on the accuracy of a nonlinear model, the DNV erosion model, used to predict wear of oil and gas equipment caused by solid particle erosion. The DNV erosion model is based on empirical data and considers several input parameters such as pressure, temperature, flow and sand content. To investigate the impact of different frequencies of partial calculations, the model was run using several temporal resolutions ranging from daily to yearly calculations, using real production data from the Volve field. The outcomes suggest that temporal resolution can have a significant impact on the accuracy of the cumulative wear predictions, mainly, due to the nonlinearity of the applied model and high variability of process parameters. This paper presents important insights into the use of nonlinear models in predicting wear due to solid particle erosion, and highlights the importance of considering the temporal resolution of partial calculations when developing and employing such models. These findings have important implications for the development and optimization of oil and gas equipment used in harsh environments where solid particle erosion is a significant concern.
Deep-Water Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Concept for Subsea Water Injection
Authors: Simos A. N. , Salles M. B. , Monaro R. M. , Martins M. R. , Mas-Soler J. , Gay A. , Franzini G. R. , Carmo B. S. , Pesce C. P. , Morishita H. M. , Carvalho D. F. , Amaral G. A. , Lima B. C. , Terra L. S. , Harger A.
Published: October 2023

This article presents technical aspects concerning the design of a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT) that is devised for supplying energy to a subsea water injection system (SWI) in a deep-water region. The main purpose of the project is to replace the conventional energy supply provided by gas turbines by wind energy, thus contributing to the decarbonization of offshore O&G production. The water injection scenario was defined by Petrobras and includes subsea pumps with power distribution and control system placed on- board the FOWT. The FOWT substructure and its mooring system were dimensioned by means of a coupled optimization procedure, which took into account the metocean characteristics of the site by means of long-term series of combined wind, waves and current data. A BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) was adopted to stabilize the off-grid electrical system and optimized to limit the subsea electrical motors stoppages. Aiming to provide realistic estimates of injected water volume, typical wind turbine efficiency factors and fault rates were considered in the analyses together with repair times calibrated according to the application scenario.
Quick Response for Risk Mitigation in Oil Services Operations: A Case Study of Poka-Yoke Application
Authors: Amaral Laryssa C. , Biazussi Jorge L. , Almeida Sarah de , Gomes Flaviano J. , Araujo Dimitri A.
Published: October 2023

This paper presents an innovative solution to mitigate the risk of unintended lifting clamp selection in Electrical Submersible Pump (ESP) installations by implementing the Poka-Yoke methodology. The potential for accidents in oilfield operations can be grave, so proactive measures must be taken. Through a thorough case study investigating a dropped ESP seal, an integrated approach to safety and quality risk analysis led to the implementation of Poka-Yoke for continuous improvement to minimize risks and improve process reliability. The implementation of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) infused with the ingenious Poka-Yoke tool from Lean Manufacturing Methodology was initiated to curtail potential hazards in ESP installations. The following steps were taken: (1) Creation of a Multidisciplinary Team, including those who work directly in the process; (2) Route Cause Analysis and Hazard Assessment; (3) Brainstorming Sessions to fortify ideas and procedures for the detection and eradication of threats using the Poka-Yoke concept; (4) Implementation of a Pilot-Scale Solution; (5) follow-up meetings for Process Revision, (6) Improvement process lead by process revision, and (7) dissemination of knowledge to the entire company through workshops and pre-job meetings. The Poka-Yoke system employs a color code system that matches the lifting clamps with their corresponding ESP equipment. Furthermore, a custom colored-scale caliper was implemented to check the diameters of the equipment and their respective lifting clamps, ensuring that they are correctly matched. The use of visual signals instead of texts in this system greatly simplifies the information conveyed, making it more accessible and understandable to all stakeholders involved in the operation. The article introduces a Lean Manufacturing Methodology concept adapted for service delivery, emphasizing the reduction of operational risks. By utilizing the Poka-Yoke tool to detect and prevent errors, it is possible to enhance the reliability of a process. This is achieved by reducing the probability of errors resulting from human error or other factors, which in turn can minimize the occurrence of defects, rework, and other quality-related concerns that could compromise the process's reliability.
Human Factors Approach to Assess Risks and Reliability in Offshore Operations with FRAM (Functional Resonance Analysis Method)
Authors: França Josué E. Maia , Hollnagel Erik
Published: October 2023

Working onboard offshore oil platforms, whether for production or drilling, presents a series of risks, involving two substances that are naturally unhealthy and dangerous - crude oil and natural gas. It is therefore necessary to develop integrated management systems that balance business needs, resource constraints, technical capabilities, and emerging risks. In addition, it is necessary to meet the regulatory requirements, which in Brazil are determined by ANP (Agência Nacional do Petróleo, Gás Natural e Biocombustíveis). In view of the Human Reliability regulatory requirements, a dedicated study was developed, seeking to align the expectations of the regulator, the company’s resources and the validated methodologies of analysis, a requirement of the ANP itself. As a result, following HSE publications and ANP guidance, it was observed that the FRAM (Functional Resonance Analysis Method) methodology, simultaneously, can meet both the demands of Human Reliability and Human Factors. From the activities performed onboard offshore units that present the most complex combination of risks, the operations with nitrogen (generation and freezing storage) and the operation of the gas dehydration unit, were selected to be analyzed with FRAM. The results of these analyses, in addition to failures, it was also perceived that human adaptive behavior, a building element of system resilience, promotes safe operational continuity, even with the partial or complete loss of intrinsic safety barriers.
Digital Transformation in the O&G Industry with the Use of Drones
Authors: Faustino R. , da Silva G. L. L. , Coelho F. M. , Ovalle A. , Santos J. L. B. , Silva C. L. , da Silva D. M. P. , de Araujo M. V. C. , Felix N. M. , Minette R. S. , Hermeto T. S. , Ramos G. S. , Cordeiro M. M. , Marinho C. A. , Ceccolin H. , Cairo A. V. , Machado F. S. , Porto B. C. , dos Santos D. R. M.
Published: October 2023

We present in this work how to apply the concept of Center of Excellence (CoE), formed by a multidisciplinary team, in order to contribute to adopt in scale, validate, test and develop UAs (Unmanned Aircrafts or popularly known as Drones) for several challenges of the O&G industry, in the context of digital transformation.

The digital transformation, supported by different technologies, allows companies to rethink their processes, optimizing time and costs, improving working conditions and reducing the exposure of their employees to risks. In the same direction, a structured team composed of professionals from different knowledge areas allows robustness for this transformation.

This article presents how the CoE structure is organized to promote innovation at scale, supporting better procurement strategies, working with innovation teams, disseminating knowledge and supporting business intelligence, aligned with the value stream and always according to regulatory and legal issues.

Some initiatives for the adoption of Drones technology are presented according to their level of technical (TRL) and commercial (CRL) readiness level, the appropriate mechanisms for their use in scale of high TRL and CRL solutions in certain situations, and other actions. This paper also describes some examples of applications for the O&G industry, pointing out the CoE contribution and the main future challenges.

The novelty presented in this article is the application of the CoE concept to Drones in the context of the O&G industry as enabler for Digital Transformation.
Explaining Driller Methodology Mitigation of Compensator Induced Vibration of Passive Heave Compensator for Drill Bit in Contact Operation
Authors: Sánchez William Humberto Cuéllar , Yamamoto Marcio , Benine André , Fortaleza Eugênio Libório Feitosa
Published: October 2023

This article investigates how to handle amplification of resonance frequency through variation of PHC volume, and it also studies the Compensator Induced Vibration (CIV), which induces longitudinal oscillations of frequencies higher than the heave motion by modifying the damping friction coefficient. The methodology of this article consists of analyzing the frequency response of a lumped mass model of drill string with a linear PHC force, and their validation through temporal simulation of the validation model that considers the nonlinear PHC forces. As the main results, it is shown that the reduction of accumulator volume is a feasible option to mitigate the amplification in the case of resonance frequencies, and a requirement is put out to determine if the CIV may appear in the top drive heave motion.
NMR Data Processing Using Gamma Function in the Evaluation of Oil Viscosity in Reservoirs of Campos Basin, Offshore Brazil
Authors: Salazar J. P. , Borri J. , Longhi L. A. , Monlevade A. A. , Martins M. J.
Published: October 2023

The use of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) logs for petrophysical interpretation and evaluation in the oil and gas industry has become very important in the last decades, especially in Brazil, where the use of this technology was significantly increased in the evaluation of different formations. This is mainly because the porosity estimation provided by this technology is independent of lithology and can be associated with different pore sizes.

Nevertheless, the presence of hydrocarbon inside the pore space affect the NMR response in term of time decay. This response depends of the oil viscosity because time decay is faster for oils with high viscosity. For low gradient NMR technologies, oil decay varies from high time constant for light oil to short time constant for medium and heavy oil.

This paper presents the results of applying Gamma Inversion to process the logging-while-drilling (LWD) NMR data acquired in a well drilled in the Polvo Field, Offshore Brazil, in order to evaluate fluid viscosity.

The Gamma Inversion process uses probabilistic functions to generate a T2 spectrum, which can separate signals from different fluids and allow the analysis of fluid viscosity by comparing with simulated NMR data based on reservoir and fluid properties. The evaluated fluid viscosity from NMR data is validated with information obtained from fluid sampling and analysis.
WellRisk: A Program to Implement a Risk-Informed Decision System for Well Integrity
Authors: Colombo D. , Junior F. C. Couvre , Junior I. Ikeda , De Almeida L. M. , Pedrassa M. H.
Published: October 2023

This paper presents WellRisk, a program designed to implement a risk-informed decision system for well integrity management during the operational phase. It explores the industry's evolution regarding well integrity and safety practices, advocating for a new paradigm centered on quantitative risk assessment within a data-oriented approach. The methodology combines three pillars: reliability data from well barrier elements, figures of merit and acceptance criteria for decision-making inspired by the probabilistic safety assessment from the nuclear industry, and a specific quantitative risk model specially developed for operational decisions. The paper illustrates the application with a case study considering the failure of a well barrier element, the impact of mitigation actions, and the comparison with the risk of replacing the failed element through a heavy workover. The main message of the paper is, however, how to systematically implement the methodology and transition from subjective approaches to a data-oriented decision-making process, yielding improved efficiency in resource allocation, reduced operational expenses, increased well production uptime, and enhanced safety.
Decentralized Subsea Water Treatment and Injection System for Unlocking FPSO Hydrocarbon Processing Capacity and Reduce Costs
Authors: Hegdal T. , Passarelli F. M.
Published: October 2023

Voidage replacement is a pre-requisite to optimize production and hydrocarbon recovery in oil fields. Sometimes, deep water production systems suffer from low water injection (WI) uptime and the natural declining reservoir pressure. The congested FPSO topside makes modifications and upgrades expensive with long shutdowns. Therefore, complementing existing WI with subsea water treatment and injection may be considered attractive.

Moving process subsea allows for simplifying new developments and enables long tiebacks with ‘local’ and decentralized water treatment and injection.

Subsea seawater treatment for water injection has several inherent advantages compared to topside treatment. One significant aspect is the increased flexibility afforded to reservoir engineers in improving effective reservoir management by providing the opportunity to implement any desired water injection capacity, anywhere and anytime. In addition, the ability to provide ‘tailor made’ water for injection into oil reservoirs, that may be phased, is seen as a game changing opportunity for offshore oilfield production companies wishing to produce more, produce faster, and produce cheaper.

The solution, qualified for water depths down to 3,000 m, enables weight reduction and simplification of the topside process equipment, with its associated maintenance requirements and HSE footprint and enables more active reservoir management. The short distance the water travels, and the unique approach to water treatment make the subsea solution attractive with reduced energy and chemical consumption.

The modular approach and flexibility provide more freedom to manage the subsurface uncertainties, mitigating risks and pursuing upsides.

The process advantages of the seawater treatment plant being on the seabed allows for a design that is simplified compared to a corresponding topside plant. The all-electric design also has the capabilities to be installed, moved, and reused on the seabed with minimum impact on topside infrastructure.

There are several aspects of the design that reduce the HSE impact of water injection. This includes lower power consumption (reducing carbon footprint) and no (or significantly reduced) liquid chemical requirement; hence, lower handling exposure for operators, improving the operational safety.
A Cost-Effective Evaluation of a Modified Matrix Acidizing Treatment for Naturally Fractured Carbonates: Laboratory Studies and Field Application
Authors: Hegazy Amr , Hakim Emad Abdel , Saleh Khaled
Published: October 2023

Successful matrix acid stimulation treatments require careful downhole placement and optimal zonal coverage. The acid must enter the zones with the highest permeability and/or lowest skin to maximize its effectiveness. Without proper fluid diversion, the acid tends to flow into the least damaged zones, leaving the most damaged zones undertreated. To achieve a skin factor on the order of −3 to −4, an effective diversion technique is crucial to ensure complete zonal coverage and remove damage throughout the producing interval.

This paper presents a modified matrix acidizing treatment explicitly developed for the fractured carbonate reservoir in the Gulf of Suez basin in the Eastern Desert of Egypt. The challenge was to treat the lower-permeability matrix while achieving a well-defined acid distribution between the flow zones of the natural fractures and the unfractured matrix, given the significant permeability contrast of 130:1.

Extensive experimental and laboratory tests were conducted to prepare a viscous pill that temporarily isolated the fractures or fissures network prior to the full acid treatment. Additionally, a passive diverter was employed instead of an active acid-based diverter, effectively diverting the acid away from each zone after pumping. The results of these novel diversion techniques demonstrated a remarkable sixfold increase in well productivity. The post-treatment evaluation, falloff analysis, and comparison with production logging and core analysis further supported the efficacy of the temporary isolation approach, particularly in treating the lower-permeability layers that are the primary target for matrix acidizing.

This paper showcases the applications and laboratory tests of this unique recipe and cost-effective diversion technique in fractured carbonate reservoirs and shares valuable lessons learned during the applications. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive recipe that can be utilized worldwide, offering practical solutions for maximizing production and reservoir potential in similar reservoir environments.
Predictive Value of Supraventricular Short Runs for New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Sezenöz Burak , Yalçın Yakup , Caglayan Hale B. , Yazgan Elif , Kızıltunç Emrullah , Ünlü Serkan , Altıparmak Taylan , Nazlıel Bijen , Özdemir Hüseyin M.
Published: October 2023

Background:

The clinical importance of supraventricular run (SVR) is uncertain in the management of patients with previous cerebrovascular events. We aim to evaluate the role of SVRs in the development of future atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients diagnosed with ischemic stroke.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated patients who underwent 24-h Holter monitoring for the evaluation of possible AF after ischemic cerebrovascular events. The presence and duration of SVR were noted. Subsequent diagnosis of AF was searched in patients with sinus rhythm.

Results:

A total of 694 patients were included in the analysis. SVR was detected in 104 (14.9%) patients in the study group. Seventy-one (10.2%) patients were diagnosed with AF in the follow-up. SVRs were more prevalent among patients with AF (P < 0.001). The median atrial run duration was 5.96 (2.02–17.84) s in the AF absent group vs. 8.76 (3.78–17.62) s in the AF present group (P < 0.001). The best predictive cut-off duration of an atrial run was 8 s (sensitivity = 61.5% and specificity = 74.4%, Area Under Curve (AUC) = 0.708). Cox regression analysis showed that age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00–1.060, P = 0.020), presence of short supraventricular run (OR: 2.53, 95% CI 1.40–4.57, P = 0.002), and left atrial diameter (OR: 1.13 95% CI: 1.07–1.19, P < 0.001) were the independent predictors of AF development in the follow-up.

Conclusion:

Age, left atrial diameter, and the presence of SVRs are associated with an increased risk of future AF after ischemic stroke. SVR duration may be an important parameter in risk stratification.
Healing Smiles: Enhancing Pediatric Dental Care through Animal-assisted Therapy – A Narrative Review
Authors: Antala Aishwarya Vineshkumar , Kariya Pratik B.
Published: October 2023

Dental anxiety refers to the negative emotional response of fear or avoiding dental care, which is exhibited by cognitive, physiological, and motor reactions when related to dental visits or dental treatment. Diverse approaches have been put forth to manage these adverse reactions during dental treatment, with the main emphasis on nonpharmacological and pharmacological management or altering the environment. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has been suggested as an alternative to conventional methods that, according to prior research on human-animal interactions, has soothing benefits for individuals. Numerous articles have shown that activities involving pets help to lessen tension in dental practice. A trained animal is used in health care as a goal-oriented intervention to enhance interactions or lessen a patient’s fear and discomfort. AAT appointments are arranged for a set time and duration to include an animal that has completed temperament testing, intensive training, and certification, in contrast to animal-assisted activities. The companion animal, which is available for the company throughout the dentist appointment, can assist in removing barriers to communication and enabling the patient to build a secure and soothing bond, minimizing treatment-related stress. By conducting this review, we would like to emphasize on benefits and obstacles of AAT for behavior management in pediatric dental procedures.
Study of Histochemical and Immunohistochemical Profile in Grading of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Oral Cavity
Authors: Gupta Arushi , Khetrapal Shaan , Rana Safia , Jetley Sujata , Monga Seema , Jairajpuri Zeeba Shamim
Published: October 2023

Background and Aim:

Head-and-neck cancers (HNCs) are significant causes of morbidity and mortality in both the developed and developing worlds. One of the most common types of HNC is oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The rationale behind the present study is to analyze the effectiveness of nuclear proliferative markers in comparison to the various grades of OSCC. This study utilizes Anneroth’s histopathological multifactorial grading system for squamous cell carcinoma and further tends to compare this histological grading with nuclear proliferative indices of p53 and argyrophilic nucleolar organizer region (AgNOR). The aim of this study was to establish and develop a correlation between the proliferative markers, AgNOR and p53, and the histologic grade of the tumor (Anneroth’s grading).

Materials and Methods:

A total of 60 cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma were taken from October 2020 to September 2022. The histological grading was done according to Anneroth’s grading, and a score was given. P53 expression was graded according to the percentage of cells showing p53-positive immunostaining, and scoring was done from 0 to 3. The AgNOR score was calculated by examining 100 nuclei and calculating the mean AgNOR score per nucleus.

Results:

A significant linear correlation was obtained between the histological grading of OSCC and the proliferative markers (p53 and AgNOR).

Conclusion:

The analysis of the NOR count provides invaluable assistance in determining tumor aggressiveness and cellular proliferation rates. They can prove to be efficient tools to procure information on the malignant potential of different premalignant lesions. Elevated p53 expression implies greater clinical severity, a higher histological grade, and a poor prognosis for oral squamous cell carcinoma. Hence, the proliferative markers can be used as adjuncts to the histological grading system of OSCC.
The Paris System for Urine Cytology: A 2 Years’ Experience from Western Indian Population
Authors: Gaikwad Vaishali Prashant , More Nilam Mahesh , Naik Leena P.
Published: October 2023

Background and Aim:

The Paris System (TPS) for Reporting Urine Cytology was introduced to bring uniformity in reporting urine cytology worldwide. The aim of this study is to assess the utility of TPS for Reporting Urine Cytology and correlate it with histopathology.

Materials and Methods:

This was a retrospective study, conducted at the cytology section of department of pathology. All the urine cytology samples received over a period of 2 years were retrieved and categorized as per TPS. The frequency of each TPS category along with relative risk for each category was calculated using the histopathological follow-up, wherever available.

Results:

A total of 200 urine cytology samples from 172 patients were categorized as per TPS. The most common category was negative for high grade urothelial carcinoma (UC) (61.5%; n = 123) followed by unsatisfactory for evaluation (15%; n = 30) and positive for high grade UC (HGUC) (10%; n = 20). There were 13 cases in category of suspicious for HGUC, 11 cases in atypical urothelial cell category, 2 cases in other malignancies, and one case in positive for low-grade UC. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy for diagnosing HGUC on cytology according to TPS were 92.86%, 100%, 100%, 60%, and 85.29%, respectively.

Conclusions:

TPS has definitely helped us to categorize the urine cytology samples with the objective criteria and thus reducing unnecessary ambiguous diagnoses and ultimately directing the correct management of the patient.
Ear Infection in a Child Due to Kodamaea ohmeri, an Emerging Pathogen: A Rare Case Report from South India
Authors: Ashraf Asem Ali , Karnaker Vimal Kumar , Veetil Sreelatha Shankaran , Chand Bhavya , Nair Sanjana , Varma Sudhir Rama
Published: October 2023

This is a report of Kodamaea ohmeri isolated from a 2-year-old febrile child with stable vitals. Frank discharge of pus was present. Microbial culture testing revealed the presence of K. ohmeri. Antifungal susceptibility was performed along with intravenous antibiotic administration and antifungal ear drops in view of the discharge.
Neuroprotection and Classification of Neurologic Dysfunction in Aortic Arch Surgery: A Narrative Review
Authors: Qu Jason Zhensheng
Published: October 2023

Open aortic arch surgery incurs frequent neurologic complications and high mortality. The disease processes of aortic aneurysm and acute aortic dissection, and the physiological trespass of cardiopulmonary bypass and hypothermic circulatory arrest (CA), can engender neurologic dysfunction such as postoperative stroke and delirium. While deep hypothermic CA (with and without retrograde cerebral perfusion) is the major strategy for brain protection, moderate hypothermic CA with antegrade cerebral perfusion has comparable or better outcomes. Classes of neurologic complications in aortic arch surgery were defined three decades ago. In 2021, the Valve Academic Research Consortium recommended new endpoints for assessing neurologic outcomes of transcatheter and surgical aortic valve procedures. Those parameters include neuroimaging biomarkers. Overt central nervous system (CNS) injury is the severe form and delirium is the common clinical presentation. Covert CNS injury, evidenced on brain imaging, is prevalent in patients following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The new definition for neurologic dysfunction after TAVR could serve in the classification of neurologic dysfunction in aortic arch surgery.
High density lipoprotein heterogeneity & function among Indians with coronary artery disease
Authors: Thakkar Himani , Vincent Vinnyfred , Roy Ambuj , Singh Archna
Published: October 2023

Background & objectives:

Impaired high density lipoprotein (HDL) functionality has been shown to be associated with cardiovascular disease risk. The study was aimed to identify the alterations in HDL function [antioxidative activity (AOA)] and subfraction distribution between acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) individuals and analysing the accuracy of HDL parameters to discriminate between the groups.

Methods:

HDL subfraction distribution analysis was performed in 200 coronary artery disease patients (ACS and SCAD) and 60 control individuals using dextran sulphate, heparin and manganese chloride precipitation method. In terms of HDL function, AOA was evaluated by dihydrorhodamine-based fluorescent cell-free assay and paraoxonase (PON1) enzyme paraoxonase and arylesterase activity.

Results:

We found that higher AOA [odds ratio (95% confidence interval {CI})]: 0.09 (0.02-0.44), P<0.01 for SCAD; 0.008 (0.001-0.07), P<0.001 for ACS and higher PON1 activity [0.22 (0.8-0.59), P<0.01 for SCAD; 0.16 (0.06-0.4), P<0.001 for ACS] were associated with a lower odds of developing coronary artery disease (CAD). AOA of apoB-depleted serum was significantly correlated with HDL2-C/HDL3-C (HDL-cholesterol) ratio in controls (r=−0.31, P=0.01) and ACS (r=−0.18, P=0.04). It was observed that AOA and HDL subfraction distribution together could discriminate between the two groups of CAD with an accuracy of 72.8 per cent (P=0.004).

Interpretation & conclusions:

Impaired AOA and altered subfraction distribution of HDL may be responsible for its diminished anti-athero protective activity and can discriminate between the two groups of CAD individuals.
A study of post exercise hypotension in normotensive offspring of hypertensives after acute exercise
Authors: Jain Neha , Bedi Mona , Varshney V.P.
Published: October 2023

Background & objectives:

Post exercise hypotension (PEH) is a well-known entity in hypertensive and borderline hypertensive patients. Since the results are inconsistent in normotensives and there is a genetic predisposition of the individuals to hypertension, we hypothesized that PEH is expected to occur in those normotensives who are offspring of hypertensive parents. In this study, we therefore aimed to compare the magnitude of PEH after an acute bout of moderate intensity continuous exercise (MICE) in the offspring of hypertensives vs. offspring of normotensives.

Methods:

Sixty normotensive participants of both genders (male and female in equal proportion), aged 18-40 yr, were divided into two groups based on their family history of hypertension. The cases (Group 1, n=30) consisted of the normotensives who were offspring of hypertensive parents while the normotensives who were offspring of normotensive parents were taken as the controls (Group 2, n=30). The hypertensive patients were excluded from the study. The individuals underwent a control session (sitting at rest for 5-10 min), followed by a single acute bout of MICE based on the target heart rate (60-70% of maximum heart rate) on a treadmill at the same time of the day (in the morning). The pre- and post-exercise measurements (after 10 min post exercise) of systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) were taken in all the participants using mercury sphygmomanometer in sitting position on the left arm. The intergroup and intragroup net effects of exercise on BP were compared with P<0.05 considered significant.

Results:

The mean SBP was reduced by 5 mmHg than the baseline in the offspring of hypertensives (cases) as compared to the controls after exercise (P=0.01). The fall in mean DBP and MAP was insignificant across both the groups, but the magnitude of PEH measured as delta changes (BP before and after exercise) in SBP (~5 mmHg) and MAP (~4 mmHg) were significantly higher for the cases as compared to the controls (P=0.01).

Interpretation & conclusions:

PEH occurs in higher magnitude in normotensives who are genetically predisposed to hypertension, such as offspring of hypertensive parents, and may find regular exercise-induced PEH as an important primary preventive tool to prevent or delay the development of hypertension.
The Indian registry on current patient profiles & treatment trends in hypertension (RECORD): One year interim analysis
Authors: Rajadhyaksha Girish Chandrakant , Reddy Himanshu , Singh Amresh Kumar , Oomman Abraham , Adhyapak Srilakshmi Mandayam
Published: October 2023

Background & objectives:

In India, hypertension constitutes a significant health burden. This observational, non-interventional, prospective study was conducted in five centres across India to evaluate the current clinical practices for the management of hypertension.

Methods:

Participants were enrolled if they were newly diagnosed with essential hypertension or had pre-existing hypertension and were on the same therapeutic plan for the previous three months. At baseline, three months, six months, and one year, information on the patient and their treatment regimen was documented, and their quality of life (QoL) was evaluated.

Results:

A total of 2000 individuals were enrolled in this study, with a mean age of 54.45 yr. Of these, 55.7 per cent (n=1114) were males, and 957 (47.85%) were newly diagnosed with hypertension, while 1043 (52.15%) had pre-existing hypertension. Stage 2 hypertension (systolic blood pressure (BP) >140 or diastolic BP ≥90 mmHg) accounted for more than 70 per cent of the participants (70.76% of pre-existing and 76.29% of newly diagnosed); the average duration of pre-existing hypertension was 68.72 months. Diabetes (31.6%) and dyslipidaemia (15.8%) were the most common comorbidities. In 43.3 per cent of the participants, monotherapy was used, and in 56.7 per cent (70.55% fixed-dose combination), combination therapy was used. Telmisartan (31.6%), amlodipine (35.2%), and a combination of the two (27.1%) were the most commonly prescribed treatment regimens. At three months, six months, and one year, treatment modifications were observed in 1.4, 1.05, and 0.23 per cent of the participants receiving monotherapy and 2.74, 4.78 and 0.35 per cent receiving combination therapy, respectively. In both groups, the proportion of individuals with controlled hypertension (≤140/90 mmHg) increased by more than 30 per cent after a year. At one year, physical and emotional role functioning, social functioning, and health improved considerably.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Combination therapy for hypertension is increasingly preferred at the time of initial diagnosis. The efficacy, safety, and tolerance of the recommended medications were reflected by improvements in the QoL and the minimal changes in the therapeutic strategy required.
Reliability of the electric pulp tester as an indicator of pulpal anesthesia in primary maxillary posterior teeth to assess the need for supplemental injections: An observational clinical study
Authors: Renuka M. Swathi , Rao Ashwin P. , Natarajan Srikant , Karuna Y. M. , Nayak P Anupama , Rao Shweta
Published: October 2023

Background:

The primary maxillary molars occasionally remain sensitive during operative procedures even post the buccal supraperiosteal injection. This could be due to the widely flared palatal roots receiving accessory innervation from the palatal nerves. Identifying inadequate anesthesia upfront using the electric pulp test (EPT) would give vital information to the clinician on the need of a supplemental palatal injection.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to assess and evaluate the reliability of the EPT as an indicator of pulpal anesthesia in primary maxillary molars.

Methodology:

Fifty one primary maxillary molars were subjected to the EPT following a buccal supraperiosteal injection. During the operative procedure, the “ Face Legs Activity Cry Consolability” (FLACC) scores were recorded. The outcome of the EPT was correlated with the results of the FLACC score using Pearson’s Chi-square test.

Results:

The EPT results were correlated to the FLACC scores. Five out of the 10 primary maxillary second molars which responded to the EPT scored 0 on the FLACC scale. The remaining 5 teeth scored 1 on the FLACC scale. The P value was 0.056 which was not statistically significant. This infers that the EPT is not a reliable tool to assess the adequacy of pulpal anesthesia in primary maxillary second molars.

Conclusion:

From the results of the present study, it can be concluded that the EPT is not a reliable tool to be used as an indicator of pulpal anesthesia in primary maxillary molars.