bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Analysis of Gas Condensate Recovery by Carbon Dioxide Huff-N-Puff; Carbon Dioxide Alternating Nitrogen and Nitrogen Injection: A Simulation Study
Authors: Yuven Nchila , Ogunkunle Temitope Fred , Olabode Oluwasanmi Ayodele , Joseph Rachael , Bolujo Eniola opeyemi , Nkongho Sonia
Published: August 2022

Conventional methods to mitigate condensate banking is to inject water or dry gas which raises the reservoir pressure above the dew point. Unfortunately, these methods are inadequate as they lead to late response in achieving low drawdown pressures. This study utilizes the compositional module of Eclipse to build a lean gas reservoir with heterogeneous properties having maximum liquid loading of 6.32% and simulate CO2 and N2 injection scenarios. Comparative analysis on condensate and gas production from five case studies of CO2 huff-n-puff, CO2 cyclic injection, CO2 and, N2 continuous injection and the Gas Alternating Gas (CO2 and N2) are considered for 9 years of production. Parametric studies on the effects of injection and production rates, cyclic time and injection fluid composition investigated. N2, CO2, Cyclic, GAG, and CO2 huff, and puff injection cases resulted in oil recovery factors of 3.83%, 3.81%, 2.9%, 1.85% and 6.1% respectively.
Energy Transition: Implications, Considerations, and Roadmap Development for Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Aniebo Igolo Nonye , Akpan Joseph Samuel
Published: August 2022

Climate change is no longer a myth and is evident worldwide in different alterations of the weather. Over the past two decades, scientists worked to find alternate sources of energy that were not fossil-based. Success in this endeavour led to what is now termed as a global transition to renewable and sustainable energy. In most climes, this marks a new beginning filled with opportunities and a chance to allow the earth to heal. Highly developed economies like Norway and some member countries of the European Union, being the driver of the transition, have begun to make policies that align with the new age, setting themselves to have a stake in the profit. The African continent, which has abundant energy resources but is neither a major contributor nor a driver of climate change but suffers just as much as other continents in the world from its effects, is not in a position to take any corrective action, showing the incapacity to participate in any potential economic gain. This paper studies the Sub-Saharan landscape by visiting the histories of the nations in question based on the energy resources within their borders and the current state of energy transition development. It examines the freedom of said countries to create policies that work for them, indicating the implications of lack of planning and the taint it may have on the new trend in the countries of interest. Efforts would also be made in highlighting a roadmap that can serve as a knowledge base to facilitate the implementation of best strategies in enabling successful energy transition in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Industry 4.0 Implementation Challenges in the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry: An Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach
Authors: Inuwa Haruna
Published: August 2022

Like other industrial revolutions, the fourth industrial revolution requires an entire change like work. It gives rise to the emergence of technologies like cyber-physical systems, the internet of things, cloud computing, additive manufacturing, big data analytics, and smart production. The main goals of Industry 4.0 technologies belie in flexibility in operations, end-to-end operational maintenance, and the internal upgrading of production systems intelligently. This paper study and identifies Industry 4.0 implementation challenges in the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry. Accordingly, this paper analyses the identified challenges using Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) based on the experts’ opinions. Based on the interpretive structural modeling outcome, which is used to determine the hierarchy of the implementation challenges, the absence of a skilled workforce (people), open collaboration, and big data management and security, and technology interaction and integration emerged as the main Industry 4.0 implementation challenges in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. Next is insufficient funds. Finally, the government policy and blueprint are the least among the six identified implementation challenges. In conclusion, this paper can serve as a tool for researchers, industry leaders, stakeholders, and professionals in the oil and gas industry to increase their awareness of Industry 4.0 implementation challenges.
Characteristic Curvature Assessment of Some Natural Surfactants for Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery Applications in Nigeria
Authors: Gbonhinbor Jeffrey , Obuebite Ann , Kuradoite George , Agi Augustine
Published: August 2022

Chemical enhanced oil recovery (CEOR) application of natural surfactants is based on potential interfacial tension (IFT) alterability and eco-friendly considerations. The reduced IFT is associated with microemulsion formation in relation to a surfactant’s characteristic curvature. Lately, surface activities of natural surfactants have gained interest in Nigerian laboratory studies with no attention given to their hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity. This research focuses on molecular weight determination, micelle formation, and characteristic curvature evaluation of readily available natural surfactants. Four plants that are known to possess relevant surfactant properties were selected for this evaluation. Freezing point dipping method was used to determine the average molecular weight of each surfactant. Critical micelle concentration (CMC) was ascertained by electric conductivity tests. Characteristic curvature was evaluated from microemulsion formulations of toluene and aqueous surfactant mixtures. Formulated aqueous surfactant mixture consists of a combination of selected natural surfactant and a reference surfactant. Sodium dodecylsulphate (SDS) was adopted as the reference surfactant throughout this work. The analysis was configured in line with the hydrophilic-lipophilic deviation (HLD) model set to 0. Results yielded average molecular weights of examined surfactants between 128.3 g/mol to 186.7 g/mol. Critical micelle concentrations values of 0.45 to 0.60 were derived for all natural surfactants. Estimated characteristic curvature values suggested hydrophobicity with values from 0.116 to 0.194. As a consequence, these natural surfactants possess a tendency to form reverse micelles due oleic phase attraction. Their low positive values make them suitable for lowering IFT in order to mobilise trapped formation oil.
Investigation of Gas-Lift Mitigation in Deepwater Pipeline-Riser System
Authors: Okereke Ndubuisi Uchechukwu , Ogazi Isaac Anayo , Umofia Anietie , Ohia Nnaemeka Princewill , Udeagbara Stephen Gekwu , Nwanwe Onyebuchi , Adimekwe Henry , Ekwueme Stanley , Kerunwa Anthony
Published: August 2022

Slugging studies done recently have shown that slug mitigation techniques need to be improved, particularly in deepwater scenarios. In order to breakup the liquid slugs inside the riser and reduce acute slugging, the gas-lift slug mitigation method involves injecting a pre-determined volume of gas at the pipeline-riser section. Through OLGA severe slug mitigation; the study investigated various positioning of the gas-lift upstream of the riser-base. A case-study of a typical deepwater scenario within West-Africa was considered. The field was located at a water-depth of over 1000m with riser height of 1513m and pipeline section of 2712m which were all modeled on OLGA. The study involved validation of the pressure simulated against initial pressure behavior from the field. The field case involved running well X1 set up at about 72°C and mass flow rate of 3.25 kg/s, well X2 set up at about 70°C and 12.13 kg/smultiphase flow stream flow. Gas-lift was deployed within range of 7kg/s to 35 kg/s. Although severe slugging was mitigated, the power consumption required by required by gas-lift technique proved to be relatively high.

The results indicated that gas-lift was better off closer to the supporting wells than being at the riser-base; as with the scenario of 35 kg/s gas-lift closer to well X2, the gas pressure upstream of the riser-base was significant enough to push off liquid slugs that accumulated at the riser-base; giving rise to a more stable flow and moderating the severe slugging scenario.
Petroleum Production Forecasting Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Ojedapo Babawale , Ikiensikimama Sunday Sunday , Wachikwu-Elechi Virtue Urunwo
Published: August 2022

Field forecasting and predictive production analysis has tremendous effects on assets planning and allocation and it cannot be over emphasized. For accurate actions to be taken, appropriate forecasts need to be made on each asset, hence the need to develop methods to aid the process. As a tilt from the conventional methodology of forecasting involving use of curve fitting techniques, and multi-level computational analysis, data driven approaches can be employed. This study presents the applications of data driven approaches to forecast production. Deep learning neural network algorithm and statistics- based data driven approach were considered. An LSTM model was developed and for the statistical algorithms, an ARIMA model, and a Holt Winters model was developed. The models were deployed, and the performance of the models were checked to determine more accurate approach for forecasting. Error analysis on the results form the models showed that the deep learning neural network model provided better results in comparison to the statistical models with an MAE of 0.0328. Based on the model performances, LSTM model can be considered for use in forecasting petroleum production overcoming effects of seasonal changes, and production anomalies in the life of the reservoir.
Evaluating the Performance of Natural Organic Sorbent for Produced Water Treatment
Authors: Adeyemi Gbadegesin , Fadairo Adesina , Ling Kegang , Rasouli Vamengh , Ogunkunle Temitope , Ayoo James , Olowu Akinrinsola
Published: August 2022

Research has shown that the most generated waste in the oil and gas industry today during exploration is the produced water (PW). Considering the volume produced, this waste cannot be discharged into the environment either as waste or for reused without proper treatment, hence this may lead to environmental concern to all the stakeholder in the oil and gas industry. In this paper, the two low-cost naturally derived banana peel powder (BPP) and animal bone powered (ABP) organic sorbents were used, capable of cleaning up the oilfield produced water. The banana peel was treated with n-hexane to eliminate all fatty acid and colour pigment then rinsed with distilled water and dried for 12 hours in a 100°C oven and crushed using a laboratory mortar and pestle to particles with a diameter of 2-3 mm and stored in a plastic container The bones used were carbonized at 400°C temperature then left for one hour in a muffle furnace before grounding the residue to a fine particle of 212μm. The two-cost effective organic sorbents were applied for oilfield produced water treatment. Pre-treatment and post-treatment produced water sample analysis were investigated to ascertain the effectiveness of the two derived organic sorbents. The result showed that as the natural organic absorbent increased, the removal efficiency increased. The results disclosed that the mixture of BPP and ABP as excellent adsorbents for the removal of oil from produced water with an oil removal efficiency of more than 98 %
Modelling Degradation Time of Hydroxyethyl Cellulose-Based Polymeric Fluids
Authors: John Anthony Okon , Joel Ogbonna Friday , Chukwuma Franklin
Published: August 2022

Sand production from hydrocarbon wells is known not to have any economic value. Hydroxyethyl cellulose is one of the polymers of choice used to formulate gravel carrier fluids used to transport proppants to the desired intervals in hydrocarbon wells, drilled in unconsolidated formations, to stop or minimize sand production. Viscous polymeric fluids must be degraded to ensure good wellbore cleanout and good hydrocarbon production. Polymer Degradation is a function of several variables such as temperature, pH, salinity, type and concentration of gel breakers and polymers. The success of gravel pack operations in the field depends greatly on the fluid design, which must first be qualified in the laboratory. It is often difficult to predict the degradation time of polymer fluids used in gravel pack operations because it’s a function of many variables. Therefore, in this study, a more detailed study of the effect of temperature, sodium persulfate breaker concentration and hydroxyethyl cellulose polymer concentration were performed. A model equation, capable of predicting the break time of hydroxyethyl cellulose-based polymeric fluid mixed in 2% by weight of potassium chloride brine, at various temperatures for different concentrations of sodium persulfate breaker, was developed based on data from laboratory experiments with the aid of Mini tab 17 software using factorial regression analysis. From the analysis, temperature has the highest impact on the degradation rate of hydroxyethyl cellulose with an effect estimate of -281.7, while breaker concentration and polymer concentration have an effect estimate of -113.4 and 128.8 respectively. From the analysis of variance, the coefficient of determination, R Squared, was 0.8792. The process of degradation of hydroxyethyl cellulose-based fluid similar composition can be more easily and faster optimized using this model.
Isolation of Autochthonous Consortium for the Bioremediation of Oil Contaminated Produced Water
Authors: Taura Usman , Al-Araimi Sara , Al-Bahry Saif , Al-Wahaibi Yahya , Al-Rashdi Lujain
Published: August 2022

In this research, we isolated indigenous bacteria capable of remediating oil-contaminated produced water in an efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner. Nine different produced water samples were collected from Omani oil fields and analysed for their physicochemical properties and microbial communities present. Different technologies were performed to extract the DNA of the microbial community cultured in different media. Metagenomic classification of the microbial community showed that the abundant genera are the Acidithiobacillus, Proteinphilum and Marinobacter. The isolated microbes that showed the highest efficiency in oil degradation were further evaluated for liquid-based biodegradation as well as in naturally occurring and artificially contaminated soil. Fourteen bacteria samples were found to be efficient in bioremediating the three environments tested. In the liquid-based media, the isolates were able to degrade the heavy oil carbon chains (C14-C20) by at least 50% after 1 week period, while some of the most potent isolates have achieved more than 95% or completely degraded all the hydrocarbon chains. Similarly, in the naturally contaminated soil, the isolates demonstrated a complete degradation of the lighter carbon molecules from C10-C16 and also achieved a higher than 90% degradation for the heavier components. Likewise, the isolates have exhibited similar biodegradation ability when exposed to an induced contaminated soil where all the lower carbon chains (C12-C17) were mostly degraded by the microbes in the samples.
Overcoming the Late-Stage Development Challenges of Bonga Turbidite Reservoirs via Geosteering Technology Deployment
Authors: Jenakumo Timipere , Adekoya Oluwaseyi , Itua Joshua , Belgore Abidemi , Nkanga Akanimoh , Olagunju Oluwatoyin , Bisain Amarjit Singh
Published: August 2022

The Bonga field is in its late stage Phase-3 development. Infill wells are drilled to target oil in the bypassed or unswept areas of the reservoirs. Unlike the earlier phases of development, the current wells have complex trajectories and are hooked up via crowded subsea manifolds. Because oflimited availability of drilling centers, most of the new wells are extended reach with narrow drilling margins.

The target reservoirs are relatively thinner, poorly developed, and more limited in extent and size compared to targets in the earlier phases, increasing inherent subsurface uncertainties. With an expected low case ultimate recovery per well of roughly 10–15 MMstb, and average deepwater well cost of +/- $40 million, the stakes were high and hence critical to get it right the first time. If net-sand is poor or short because of suboptimal landing or well placement in the reservoir, the well objective (recovery and rate) can easily be compromised and could require drilling a sidetrack with additional attendant cost. Longer exposure length of drain hole (reservoir section) was known to improve well production rates hence an essential component of the well plan.

To address these challenges and ensure the wells achieve their objectives and deliver their economic value, a geosteering technology (Reservoir Mapping While Drilling tool—GeoSphere) was adopted for optimal landing above the target reservoir(s) and placement within the reservoir channel sands using the Multilayer Distance to Boundary technology (PeriScopeHD). The deployment of geosteering technology was considered to be a success in enabling better sand exposures of the wells in the target sections, thus achieving the well objectives.

This paper discusses the implementation of geosteering technology and learnings from two case studies in the Bonga infill campaign.
Collation, Analysis of Oil and Gas Production Reports Using Excel, Python and R: A Data Science Approach in Handling Large Data
Authors: Oluwalade Opeyemi , Adeeyo Yisa , Emeruwa Frank , Nwabulue Nnamdi , Obi-Okoye Adaora , Adesola Adekanmi
Published: August 2022

The ability to have data and manipulate it to uncover meaningful information is a must-have skill in this day and age. In this paper, practical techniques were applied to combine and analyze 65 sets of well test data received from the Field Engineers for a particular well (Well-001). Comparisons were made between manually collating (copy and paste) and analyzing the data and applying Data Science techniques. Analysis was also done after collation of this data.

It was on the basis of this review that it was observed that the well had a corroded bean box and that was replaced, while further analysis on the other hand showed that in the future, a Water Shut Off (WSO) and perforation extension opportunity could be carried out to boost and optimize production in this particular well.

The emphasis of this paper is not on the analysis of the data but comparing various tools that can be used to combine large data from different excel files and collating them into one sheet for analysis and pointing out how man-hours can be optimized by applying Data Science. Data used in this paper were routine Field reports stored in a file that pertains to a Well in one of the Fields of interest. One of the takeaways from the job done here is that we can achieve more in less time from Data Science tools and codes like R, Python, VBA and also other tools like Power Query and Pivot Tables.
Hydro-Mechanical and Electro-Hydraulic Single Trip Completions, An Affordable Reality
Authors: Akanegbu Stanley , Akinpelu James , Ogueli Okechukwu , Edwards Andrew , Ologunkeji Oluseyi , Ibrahim Yahaya , Robertson Bruce , Ekpuk Joseph , Ekwedike Augustine
Published: August 2022

Recent papers describe successful Single-Trip Completions (STC) operations carried out offshore Nigeria and other locations and has successfully shed light on implementation of this advanced technology, which represents a step change in operational efficiency. However, the cost of these STC equipment may be prohibitive for wells drilled in shelf or swamp environments. The delivery of STC relies on different communication methods to communicate with and function the down-hole tools that make up part of the STC assemblies such as the "hydraulically actuated sand screens", the "radio frequency identification (RFID) actuated sleeves", and "valves". These different communication methods permit the running of a closed-loop system to ensure well integrity through-out the deployment and commissioning of the completion system. This paper will discuss pre-job planning, field execution and lessons learned from technologies developed to fit this environment while simultaneously challenging conventional thinking around open hole and cased hole completions systems, while addressing the operator's key drive towards capital efficiency through reduction of rig-days by as much as 50%. While several of the components incorporated in the STC system had been run previously in isolation, this paper will discuss the steps taken to facilitate the first full system approach to the application of sand screens fitted with hydro-mechanical inflow control device sleeves designed to actuate on pressure bleed-off, RFID enabled tools in the first hybrid single trip interventionless sand control completion system, and the time savings realized while ensuring well integrity through-out the deployment. Several components within the completion system have been equipped with novel enabling technology, RFID operated reservoir isolation valve at toe of the completion, wire wrapped sand screens fitted with hydro-mechanical sleeves designed to actuate on pressure bleed down complete with inflow control devices, and fuse actuated remote operated circulating sleeves for annular fluid displacement, which will all be discussed within.
Gas Condensate Well Deliverability Model, a Field Case Study of a Niger Delta Gas Condensate Reservoir
Authors: Ehibor Idahosa , Ohenhen Ikponmwosa , Oloyede Bukolo , Adetoyi Gbenga , Amaechi Tochukwu , Olajide Olanike , Kaka Ademola , Woyengidiripre Anthony
Published: August 2022

Gas condensate banking accumulated near the wellbore occurs when the bottomhole pressure becomes less than the dew point pressure, allowing the liquid fraction to condense out of the gas phase. Once the accumulation near the wellbore is higher than critical condensate saturation, the liquid phase becomes mobile with the gas phase, affecting well deliverability and making it difficult to estimate gas and condensate flow rate from the reservoir due to two phase flow of fluid. This paper presents an analytical model that evaluates the well deliverability from the reservoir.

The concept of two phases Pseudo-pressure is used in the interpretation and evaluation of well deliverability from the gas condensate reservoir. The model considers non-Darcy flow effects and capillary effects.

The model is applied to a live field case study of a Niger Delta gas condensate reservoir to determine well deliverability. Gas and liquid production profile from the model showed 95% accuracy when compared with compositional simulation model. This model is encoded into a spreadsheet program using python to calculate well deliverability parameters.
Genome sequence of the entomopathogenic Serratia entomophila isolate 626 and characterisation of the species specific itaconate degradation pathway
Authors: Vaughan Amy L , Altermann Eric , Glare Travis R , Hurst Mark R H
Published: August 2022

Background: Isolates of Serratia entomophila and S. proteamaculans (Yersiniaceae) cause disease specific to the endemic New Zealand pasture pest, Costelytra giveni (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). Previous genomic profiling has shown that S. entomophila isolates appear to have conserved genomes and, where present, conserved plasmids. In the absence of C. giveni larvae, S. entomophila prevalence reduces in the soil over time, suggesting that S. entomophila has formed a host-specific relationship with C. giveni. To help define potential genetic mechanisms driving retention of the chronic disease of S. entomophila, the genome of the isolate 626 was sequenced, enabling the identification of unique chromosomal properties, and defining the gain/loss of accessory virulence factors relevant to pathogenicity to C. giveni larvae. Results: We report the complete sequence of S. entomophila isolate 626, a causal agent of amber disease in C. giveni larvae. The genome of S. entomophila 626 is 5,046,461 bp, with 59.1% G+C content and encoding 4,695 predicted CDS. Comparative analysis with five previously sequenced Serratia species, S. proteamaculans 336X, S. marcescens Db11, S. nematodiphila DH-S01, S. grimesii BXF1, and S. ficaria NBRC 102596, revealed a core of 1,165 genes shared. Further comparisons between S. entomophila 626 and S. proteamaculans 336X revealed fewer predicted phage-like regions and genomic islands in 626, suggesting less horizontally acquired genetic material. Genomic analyses revealed the presence of a four-gene itaconate operon, sharing a similar gene order as the Yersinia pestis ripABC complex. Assessment of a constructed 626::RipC mutant revealed that the operon confer a possible metabolic advantage to S. entomophila in the initial stages of C. giveni infection.Conclusions: Evidence is presented where, relative to S. proteamaculans 336X, S. entomophila 626 encodes fewer genomic islands and phages, alluding to limited horizontal gene transfer in S. entomophila.Bioassay assessments of a S. entomophila-mutant with a targeted mutation of the itaconate degradation region unique to this species, found the mutant to have a reduced capacity to replicate post challenge of the C. giveni larval host, implicating the itaconate operon in establishment within the host.
Long-term effect of non-surgical periodontal treatment on glycaemic control in patients with diabetes with periodontitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Bakari William Ndjidda , Diallo Ahmad Moustapha , Danwang Celestin , Anagnostou Fani , Guirassy Mouhammadou Lamine , Benoist Henri Michel
Published: August 2022

Aim
This study aimed to determine whether non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT), with or without antimicrobial adjuvant therapy, in diabetic patients with periodontitis was effective in significantly reducing glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) over six months compared to no active treatment.
Methods
MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL were searched to identify randomized controlled trials with a follow-up period of at least 6 months. The risk of bias was investigated by the Cochrane intention-to-treat risk of bias assessment tool (ROB 2) with 6-month HbA1C as the primary outcome. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to obtain the overall effect of non-surgical periodontal therapy on HbA1c levels. A subgroup analysis according to the type of adjuvant therapy was conducted.
Results
The literature search yielded 1848 studies, of which 10 were finally retained. An overall low risk of bias was found in four studies. The pooled mean difference of HbA1c between the intervention and control groups at 6 months and 9 months for non-surgical periodontal therapy was − 0.11% (95% CI: -0.31 to 0.09) and − 0.21 (95% CI: -0.72 to 0.29) respectively. Compared to the control group, periodontal parameters (plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing pockets depth, and clinical attachment levels) as well as levels of selected inflammation markers (C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor-α) were significantly (P-value < 0.05) improved in the intervention group.
Conclusion
NSPT with or without adjuvant contributed to a modest, although not statistically significant, improvement in glycaemic control at 6 and 9 months in diabetic patients with periodontitis.
Familial clustering of dysbiotic oral and fecal microbiomes in juvenile dermatomyositis
Authors: Koester Sean T. , Chow Albert , Pepper-Tunick Evan , Lee Peggy , Eckert Mary , Brenchley Laurie , Gardner Pamela , Li Naisi , Schiffenbauer Adam , Volochayev Rita , Bayat Nastaran , McLean Jeffrey S. , Rider Lisa G. , Shenoi Susan , Stevens Anne M. , Dey Neelendu
Published: August 2022

Background: Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is a rare immune-mediated disease of childhood that is thought to result from genetic predisposition and environmental drivers, with documented links to microbial exposures. In this multi-center, prospective, observational cohort study, we evaluated whether JDM is associated with discrete oral and gut microbiome signatures.Methods: We generated 16S rRNA sequencing data from fecal, saliva, supragingival, and subgingival plaque samples from JDM probands (n=28, age range 3-18 years, mean age 10 years, 46% female). To control for genetic and environmental determinants of microbiome community structure to the greatest extent possible, we also profiled microbiomes of their unaffected family members (n=27 siblings, n=26 mothers, and n=17 fathers). We performed paired within-family comparisons as well as unpaired analyses of different cohorts. Results: Sample type (oral vs fecal) and nuclear family unit were the two most predominant variables explaining variance in microbiome diversity, more so than having a diagnosis of JDM. The oral and gut microbiomes of JDM probands were more similar to their own unaffected siblings than they were to the microbiomes of other JDM probands. Nonetheless, in a sibling-paired analysis, several potentially immunomodulatory bacterial taxa were differentially abundant in the microbiomes of JDM probands compared to their unaffected siblings, including Faecalibacterium in the gut and Streptococcus in the oral cavity. Further, compared to published microbiome datasets generated from healthy children and adults, fecal microbiomes of both JDM probands and their unaffected family members were markedly different. Conclusions: Family unit (which reflects the confluence of genetic and household effects) has a significant effect on microbiome community structure. Features of the dysbioses seen in oral and fecal microbiomes of JDM probands were shared by their unaffected family members, suggesting familial microbiome signatures. The loss or gain of specific fecal and oral bacteria may potentially play a role in disease pathogenesis and/or be secondary to immune dysfunction in susceptible individuals.
Efficacy, tolerability and safety evaluation of atypical antipsychotics in the treatment of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia-a Bayesian network meta-analysis
Authors: gu rui , Xu Wu , Zhao Xiaoling , Liu Yan
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Atypical antipsychotics (AAPs) are commonly used for patients with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). But conclusion of efficacy, tolerability and safety is uncertainty. Hence, we compared the efficacy, tolerability and safty of AAPs for BPSD.Methods: We searched randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The primary outcome were the changes of Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) total score, NPI-psychosis total score and the tolerability. The secondary outcome were the changes in the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) total score, Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) total score. We also evaluated 12 safety outcome measures. Then a Bayesian network meta-analyses was conducted.Results: There was no statistically significant difference between these AAPs and placebo or between AAPs either on effective outcome measures. Olanzapine had more worse tolerability, higher risk of CVAEs and EPSs, greater change of body weight compared with placebo. Risperidone had higher risk of EPSs and peripheral edema than placebo. Aripiprazole, olanzapine, quetiapine and risperidone all had higher risk of somnolence or sedation than placebo..Conclusions: There is no absolutely effective, tolerability and safe AAPs for BPSD. Doctors should weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each AAPS, select the drugs individually and closely monitor the adverse reactions during the treatment.
Effect of an emotional intelligence educational program on perceived and occupational stress of health personnel: a pragmatic cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Heydarifard Maryam , Rakhshani Tayebeh , Fararoie Mohammad , Khafaie Morteza Abdullatif
Published: August 2022

Background
coping with occupational stress is vital for health personnel to communicate more with patients and ultimately the interactions between patients and providers impact the quality of care. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of the emotional intelligence training program (EITP) on occupational and perceived stress in health personnel.
Methods
A pragmatic cluster randomized controlled trial study was conducted in Andimeshk Health Centers, located in the northwest Khuzestan province between January and March 2019. Absolute change from baseline to final emotional intelligence (EI), occupational stress (OS), and perceived stress (PS), were measured. Standard questionnaires including Brad-berry & Graves Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (2004), HSE (UK Health and Safety Executive) Standard Occupational Stress Questionnaire, and Brad-berry's, Cohen's perceived stress, were used. The in-person training program includes two workshops (duration = 6 hours) and a 30-day follow-up.
Results
Out of 80 health personnel, 75 fulfilled the study requirement. (n = 37 allocated into the experiment vs n = 38 control). Baseline emotional intelligence in the experiment group was improved by about 1.16 units versus a non-significant change in the control group (=-1.21). At baseline, there was no significant difference between the experiment and control groups in terms of mean score of OS and PS (p > 0.05). We have observed a non-significant improvement in the experiment group in terms of OS and PS. However, the score changes in the experiment group were significantly higher than in the control group (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
We have shown emotional intelligence improvement could have a significant impact on stress management as so recommended to include EI training in the annual training programs.
Trial registration:
RCT: IRCT20160418027449N4 Date: 25/02/2019
Effects of CEM cement and Emdogain on proliferation and differentiation of human stem cells from the apical papilla: A Comparative In Vitro Study
Authors: Khoshbin Elham , Ghasemi Leila , Najafi Rezvan , Karkehabadi Hamed
Published: August 2022

Objectives: This study compared the effects of calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement, Emdogain, and their combination (CEM/Emdogain) on differentiation and proliferation of stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs). Methods: In this in vitro, experimental study, SCAPs were isolated from two sound immature impacted third molars and cultured. After ensuring their stemness by detecting cell surface markers they were exposed to CEM cement, Emdogain, and CEM cement coated with Emdogain for 24 and 72 hours. The control cells did not undergo any intervention. Cell viability [by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay], expression of odontogenic differentiation genes [by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR)] and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity (by ALP staining kit) were evaluated. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, t-test, and Mann-Whitney test (α=0.05). Results: Cell viability in the CEM cement and CEM/Emdogain groups decreased compared with the control group at 72 hours (P<0.05). Expression of dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP), dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), bone sialoprotein (BSP) genes and ALP activity significantly increased in all three experimental groups compared with the control group at both 24 and 72 hours. This increase was substantially more significant in CEM/Emdogain group (P>0.05). The number of mineralized nodules significantly increased in all groups at 72 hours, with a higher rate in the CEM/Emdogain group. Conclusion: All biomaterials increased the differentiation of SCAPs, expression of odontogenic differentiation genes, and ALP activity, but CEM/Emdogain was considerably more effective for this purpose.
Molecular Characterization and Morphological Variation of Various Fusarium spp. Associated with Post Flowering Stalk Rot of Maize in India
Authors: YADAV KALPANA , SHARMA S. S. , KHOKHAR M. K.
Published: August 2022

Maize (Zea mays L.) is the vital cereal crop around the world and is the third wide grown cereal crop in India for food grain purposes. Field surveys were conducted from 2019–2020 recorded stalk rot incidence ranged from 23–50% in several maize growing districts of Southern Rajasthan, India. On the basis of primary symptoms, typical symptoms were observed after flowering season and it starts with the drying of the lower leaves and premature wilting, internal decay and discoloration of stalk tissue, lower internodes turned into grey-green color and stalks are hollow and weak leading to the lodging of the plant and directly reducing maize yield. We identified associated pathogens with post flowering stalk rot disease severity and incidence and Fusarium considered as major threat in all the maize growing regions. Consequently, in this research, identification was confirmed as “Fusarium spp”. by morphological and molecular sequence analysis. “Fusarium” species associated with stalk rot incidence were isolated on PDA. No. of 12 fungal isolates were isolated from Post Flowering Stalk Rot complex from different localities. All Isolates were identified as Fusarium, based on colony character, conidial and morphological characters. However, identification of 10 primarily selected isolates of Fusarium was confirmed by molecular characterization. Based on morphological characteristics, 10 isolates were classified as F. verticillioides (5 isolates) and 2 isolates as Fusarium proliferatum, 1 isolate of Fusarium luffae, 1 isolate of Fusarium pallidoroseum and 1 isolate of Fusarium oxysporum. Colony diameter of isolates ranged between 65.80 to 90 mm. All the ten isolates of Fusarium spp. showed notable variations in conidial morphology. Molecular variability of the ten isolates was carried out by choosing 10 RAPD markers of Operon series. Ten primers produced scorable bands with high percentage of the polymorphism (91.1%). Similarity coefficient among all these isolates of Fusarium spp. based on amplifying DNA using RAPD primers was estimated using Jaccard coefficient of similarity and thus similarity matrix was generated (62.5–85.4%). Dendrogram was constructed based on molecular data generated by 10 RAPD primers using NTSYS Pc (numerical taxonomic and multivariate analysis system) version 2.02.e UPGMA clusters analysis grouped Fusarium spp. isolates into two clusters with 0.32% similarity coefficient.
Targeting regulation of VEGF by BPTF in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and its potential clinical significance
Authors: Dai Meng , Hua Chunyu , Wang Mingqin , Gao Li , Jiang Ling , Liu Yuan
Published: August 2022

Purpose
VEGF facilitates the formation of tumor angiogenesis, and bevacizumab targeting VEGF is used in anti-tumor therapy. It’s meaningful to clarify the upstream regulatory mechanism of VEGF. BPTF is important in chromosomal remodeling, and promotes the progression of tumors. However, its promotion of tumor angiogenesis by targeting VEGF has not been reported. This study aims to elucidate the regulation of VEGF by BPTF and its clinical significance in NSCLC.
Methods
1. Reduced the expression of BPTF by transfecting BPTF siRNA and shRNA plasmid in vivo and vitro. Examined the expressions of BPTF, VEGF and CD144 by immunofluorescence and Western Blot. 2. The expressions of BPTF, VEGF, CD144 and CD31 were detected in lung adenocarcinoma samples by immunofluorescence, Western Blot and immunohistochemical. 3. 26 lung adenocarcinoma patients treated by bevacizumab were divided into 2 groups according to the bevacizumab efficacy. BPTF and VEGF expressions were analyzed.
Results
1. BPTF knockdown can inhibit the expression of VEGF and CD144 in vivo and vitro. 2. Compared with para-cancer tissues, BPTF, VEGF, CD144 and CD31 were highly expressed in lung adenocarcinoma. 3. In 75 lung adenocarcinoma specimens, BPTF and VEGF overexpression was correlated with lymph node metastasis and clinical stage. The five-year survival rate in group of BPTF and VEGF low expression was higher, and BPTF was positively correlated with VEGF. 4. Among 26 patients treated with bevacizumab, the patients with BPTF overexpresstion are more in the sensitive group.
Conclusions
BPTF positively regulates VEGF expression and BPTF predicts a better efficacy of bevacizumab in NSCLC.
Health-related Quality of Life Among Adult Patients With Cancer in Uganda
Authors: Naamala Allen , Eriksson Lars E. , Orem Jackson , Nalwadda Gorrette K. , Kabir Zarina Nahar , Wettergren Lena
Published: August 2022

Aim: To investigate prevalence of clinical cases with regard to health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and its association with socio-demographic and clinical factors among adult patients attending specialized cancer care in Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional study assessed HRQoL in 385 patients (response rate 95%) using the EORTC QLQ-C30. Predetermined thresholds indicating clinical importance were applied to identify patients exhibiting functional impairments and symptoms at a level meriting concern (clinical case). Multivariable logistic regression models identified factors associated with being a clinical case in selected subscales of the EORTC QLQ-C30. Results: The majority of the patients (mean age 48 years) reported functioning at levels indicating clinical caseness (68%−87%), as well as significant pain (80%), and fatigue (63%). Higher age and lack of education were associated with clinical caseness. Clinical characteristics related to caseness included having an advanced disease stage, being hospitalized, receiving palliation, not on active cancer treatment as well as diagnosed with head/neck cancers. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that more than two thirds of adult patients cared for at a specialized cancer facility in Uganda rate HRQoL at levels meriting concern. The large proportion of patients with pain calls for implementation of guidelines to improve pain management.
Nursing experience during COVID-19 pandemic in Korea: A qualitative analysis based on the Professional Practice Model
Authors: Kim Hye-Ryoung , Yang Hwa-Mi
Published: August 2022

Background
Nurses have an essential role and responsibility to work at the forefront of patient care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the press and public have praised the dedication of nurses in the COVID-19 pandemic, there are several points to consider for nursing professional development. The purpose of this study is to collect the experiences of the nursing profession in the COVID-19 pandemic through interviews, seek improvements for the development of the nursing profession, and suggest directions for the future.
Method
This qualitative study adopts semi-structured interviews analyzing the nursing experience of the COVID-19 pandemic based on the professional practice models (PPMs). Ten nurses with at least two years of working experience and thorough work changes in the COVID-19 pandemic from various settings have participated in the study
Results
We identified thirty-nine problematic codes and nineteen improvement codes which mapped to 12 key concepts and corresponded to 6 constructs of the PPM model.
Conclusions
Nurses had to take on tasks beyond their duties in urgent situations, which restrained nurses from concentrating on their work. Clarifying working boundaries is fundamental for collaborative care and independent nursing practice. Collaboration and communication among healthcare workers based on mutual understanding can create a respectful working environment. Although there were many difficulties due to the uncertain situation, we can find that the nursing profession can make achievements through systematic and organizational support for sticking to the basics of nursing, securing technical expertise, cultivating critical thinking, and developing various professional attributes. In this way, the establishment of roles based on professional values and duties and the ascertainment of clear boundaries for nursing will ultimately help to improve the quality of patient care.
Strain-level structure of gut microbiome associated with the cognitive function in major depressive disorder
Authors: Dong Zaiquan , Xie Qinglian , Shen Xiaoling , Hao Yanni , Li Jin , Xu Haizheng , Kuang Weihong
Published: August 2022

Background
Although the association between gut microbiota and the pathogenesis of major depressive disorder (MDD) has been well studied, it is unclear whether the gut microbiota affects cognitive function in patients with MDD. Based on a strain-level analysis, we explored the impact of gut microbiota on cognitive function in MDD and possible mechanisms.
Methods
We enrolled 57 patients with MDD and 30 healthy controls (HCs) in this study and used 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis to determine gut microbial composition. Untargeted metabolite analyses were used to assess differences in metabolites between the two groups. A bespoke neuropsychological test suite was used to test the cognitive function of patients with MDD.
Results
We found that the richness and diversity of gut microbiota in patients with MDD was the same as that in HCs, but there were differences in the abundance of Bifidobacterium and Blautia. Compared with HCs, three strains (bin_31, bin_32, and bin_55) were significantly increased in patients with MDD base on the strain-level meta-analysis. We found time to complete the Stroop-C had a significant negative correlation with bin_31 and bin_32 (both P < 0.05). Bin_55 had a significant negative correlation with time to complete the Stroop-C, time to complete the Stroop-CW, and repeated animal words in 60 seconds, but a significant positive correlation with correct answers in 120s on the Stroop-CW (all P < 0.05). Co-occurrence network analysis showed that bin_31 had a significant negative correlation with Cer(d14:2(4E,6E)/22:0(2OH)) (P < 0.01). In addition, bin_55 had a significant positive correlation with Capsanthin 5,6-epoxide and a negative correlation with 5-Hepteneoylglycine, and bin_32 had a significant positive correlation with 6-Gingerol and Montecristin and negative correlation with 5-Hepteneoylglycine and 12-HETE-GABA (all P < 0.05)
Conclusions
In the present study, we found a significant correlation between several strains of gut microbes (bin_31, bin_32, and bin_55) and cognitive function in patients with MDD. This provides a new basis for the treatment of MDD by intervening with the gut microbiome.
The relationship between exogenous progesterone administration in the first- trimester pregnancy and fetal nuchal translucency thickness
Authors: Mahmoodian Bahareh , Zare Shamsi , Seydoshohadaei Fariba , Rahmani Khaled , Zandvakili Farnaz
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Increased fetal nuchal translucency (NT) thickness is defined as a transient subcutaneous accumulation of fluid behind the fetal neck that can be seen with the help of ultrasound. The thickness of fetal NT is a diagnostic criterion in genetic syndromes. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between exogenous progesterone administration in the first trimester of pregnancy and fetal NT thickness.Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted on 200 pregnant women aged 18 to 45 years including 100 pregnant women receiving exogenous progesterone due to vaginal bleeding in the first trimester and 100 pregnant women who did not receive exogenous progesterone from February 2021 to November 2021. The NT thickness of their fetal was measured at 11 to 12 weeks-6 days of gestation. Data were analyzed using Stata software version 14 using independent t-test, Chi-square, Fisher, and Pearson correlation coefficient. The statistical significance level was determined as less than 0.05 (P <0.05).Results: Mean of age, body mass index (BMI), gestational age (GA), crown-rump length (CRL), pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (FβHCG) and βHCG median and multiple of median (MOM) levels were not statistically significant in the two groups (p<0.05).The mean of NT thickness in the group receiving exogenous progesterone was higher than the group non-receiving exogenous progesterone and there was a significant difference between the two groups (p<0.05). Frequency distribution of Gravida, parity, previous live births, previous abortion, and history of abnormalities were not significant in the two groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: Although the findings of the present study showed that external progesterone consumption increased the thickness of the fetal nuchal translucency thickness, no anomaly was observed in delivered babies.