bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengenalan Bibliometric Mapping sebagai Bentuk Pengembangan Layanan Research Support Services Perguruan Tinggi
Authors: Setyowati Lis
Published: October 2020

Para peneliti dituntut untuk mengikuti perkembangan di bidang mereka masing-masing. Hal ini akan sulit dilakukan bila mereka tidak memiliki pengetahuan dan keterampilan yang mendukung hal ini. Pengetahuan dan keterampilan seperti ini dapat diperoleh melalui pelatihan. Pelatihan seperti ini bisa menjadi kesempatan emas yang bisa dimanfaatkan oleh perpustakaan. Perpustakaan perguruan tinggi bisa mengembangkan layanan yang mendukung riset dengan menyediakan layanan bibliometric mapping dan mengajarkan penggunaan perangkat lunak bibliometric mapping. Dengan menggunakan pendekatan kajian pustaka, tulisan ini bertujuan untuk memberikan gambaran peluang untuk menawarkan layanan yang berkaitan dengan bibliometri di perpustakaan. Tulisan ini mengeksplorasi bibliometric mapping sebagai metode yang dapat digunakan untuk mendapatkan visualisasi publikasi di suatu bidang ilmu. Dengan memanfaatkan data bibliografis dari pangkalan data seperti SCOPUS, Web of Science atau PubMed, seseorang bisa mendapatkan gambaran tentang tokoh yang mempunyai peran menonjol dan juga topik-topik popular di bidang-bidang tertentu. Meskipun bibliometric mapping berpotensi untuk menjadi perpanjangan bentuk dari jasa rujukan di perpustakaan, namun hal ini masih belum dianggap penting. Untuk mengenalkan metode ini kepada para peneliti, maka perpustakaan bisa menawarkan pelatihan “Literature Review” dan mengenalkan software yang berkaitan.
Silicon carbide (SiC) membranes in œnology: a laboratory-scale study
Authors: Trevisan Mathilda , Barthélémy Lucas , Ghidossi Rémy , Moulin Philippe
Published: October 2020

Unfiltered wine is a turbid medium that is not generally accepted by the consumer. Therefore, one or several filtration steps are required before bottling. Silicon carbide (SiC) membranes desirable parameters (porosity, tortuosity fluxes) allow filtering several different types of loaded matrices like wine or residue sediment. An in-depth filtration study was carried out on white and red wines to evaluate membrane efficiency and to optimise their cleaning procedure. Retention rates were studied as a function of wine type, filtration mode, and volumetric concentration factor. Compared to ceramic membranes, SiC membrane permeate fluxes are higher, up to a factor of 10 for red wine. For white wines, equivalent permeate fluxes could be obtained with dead-end filtration. Moreover, SiC membranes appear to be effective in obtaining a clear and brilliant wine and do not modify the concentration of the compounds of interest in wine. Finally, an optimised cleaning protocol has been identified and shown to restore a sufficient permeability to the SiC membranes.
Loudspeaker Noise Disturbance Control using Optimal and Robust Controllers
Authors: Jibril Mustefa , Tadese Messay , Bogale Fiseha
Published: October 2020

Noise reduction is the major issue in the loudspeaker for the application of the musical instruments and related areas. In this paper, a noise disturbance control of a loudspeaker with optimal and robust controllers has been done successfully. The noise of the loudspeaker has been analyzed by simply track a reference cone displacement with the actual cone displacement. Static output feedback and H infinity optimal loop shaping controllers have been used to compare the actual and reference cone displacements by using a sine wave and random cone displacement signals and a promising results have been analyzed.
Development of Semi-Crouching Assistive Device Using Pneumatic Artificial Muscle
Authors: Saito Naoki , Furukawa Daisuke , Satoh Toshiyuki , Saga Norihiko ,   Department of Intelligent Mechatronics, Akita Prefectural University 84-4 Ebinokuchi, Tsuchiya, Yurihonjo, Akita 015-0055, Japan,   Department of Intelligent Mechatronics, Akita Prefectural University 84-4 Ebinokuchi, Tsuchiya, Yurihonjo, Akita 015-0055, Japan,   Department of Human System Engineering, Kwansei Gakuin University 2-1 Gakuen, Sanda, Hyogo 669-1337, Japan
Published: October 2020

This paper describes a semi-crouching assistive device using pneumatic artificial muscles. The goal of this device is to reduce the load on the lower back when performing work in the semi-crouching position. The load on the lower back is reduced by decreasing the compressive pressure on the lumbar disk of the lower back. This compressive pressure increases as the contraction force of the erector spine increases. Therefore, it is important to reduce the muscle activity of the erector spine. Based on the analytical result of a worker’s position model, the proposed device adopts a scheme to push the chest of the user as an appropriate assistive method. Additionally, the analytical result shows that a reduction in weight of the device is also important for decreasing the load on the lower back. Based on these results, we prototyped a lightweight semi-crouching assistive device that can generate sufficient assistive force via a pneumatic artificial muscle, which has high power to weight ratio. This device was experimentally evaluated via electromyogram of the erector spine when the user maintains a semi-crouching position. The experimental results confirmed the usefulness of this device.
Development of Hydraulic Pump Drive System Using Switched Reluctance Motor with Servo Function
Authors: Phan Ha Tham , Itagaki Seiya , Sato Yasukazu ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Yokohama National University 79-5 Tokiwadai, Hodogaya-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 240-8501, Japan
Yokohama National University 79-5 Tokiwadai, Hodogaya-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 240-8501, Japan
Published: October 2020

A switched reluctance motor (SRM) generates a reluctance torque without the power of a permanent magnet, rendering it a candidate for rare-earth free motors. Compared with a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), SRMs also offer operational advantage in high-temperature environments owing to their robust structure. However, SRMs are generally inferior to PMSMs in terms of torque ripple, noise, and speed control, in particular. Therefore, this study attempts to improve the controllability of SRMs by proposing an SRM driving method in the form of a bidirectional rotation torque and a speed-controllable servomotor. The advantage of this method is evaluated experimentally using a closed-loop hydraulic system (valveless control system), which includes a hydraulic pump driven by an SRM to supply hydraulic power to actuators. The results show that the pump flow rate and hydraulic motor speed are consistent with the sinusoidal commands corresponding to the forward and reverse rotations of the SRM.
Flowrate Measurement in a Pipe Using Kalman-Filtering Laminar Flowmeter
Authors: Sanada Kazushi ,   Faculty of Engineering, Yokohama National University 79-5 Tokiwadai, Hodogaya, Yokohama, Kanagawa 240-8501, Japan
Published: October 2020

A laminar flowmeter that estimates the unsteady flowrate in a pipe using a Kalman filter is proposed. The laminar flowmeter has 32 narrow pipes. Kalman filtering is applied to one of the narrow pipes to estimate its flowrate. Three pressure sensors are connected to the narrow pipe. Upstream and downstream pressure signals are applied to a model of pipeline dynamics. The midpoint pressure is calculated and compared with the measured value. The error signal is fed back to the model. According to the principle of the Kalman filter, the estimated flowrate converges to the real flowrate. The Kalman-filtering estimation is conducted in a real-time computing system. In this study, the steady flowrate in a pipe is estimated and calibrated with measured data. The proposed Kalman-filtering-based laminar flowmeter demonstrates very promising performance.
Load Reduction Control on Tool-Insertion Port for Laparoscopic Surgical Robot Using Semi-Active Joints
Authors: Aizawa Koki , Haraguchi Daisuke , Tadano Kotaro ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 226-8503, Japan,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Tokyo College 1220-2 Kunugidamachi, Hachiohji, Tokyo 193-0997, Japan,   Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology 4259 Nagatsuta-cho, Midori-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa 226-8503, Japan
Published: October 2020

In robotic surgery, the load exerted on the insertion port in the patient’s abdominal wall due to misalignment of the robot’s remote center of motion and the insertion port or external forces acting on the tip of the forceps during surgery, can not only stress the patient’s body but also increase the friction between the robotic forceps and the trocar, and adversely affect fine surgical manipulations or the accuracy of force estimation. To reduce such loads on the insertion port in robotic surgery, this study proposes a control method for a surgical assist robotic arm with semi-active joints. The control method was implemented on a six-degree-of-freedom pneumatically driven vertical multi-joint robotic arm with a two-axis gimbal joint (two semi-active joints) that only executes torque control, which was previously developed by the authors, and verified through an experiment. The load on the insertion port is reduced by applying torque control on the semi-active joints to compensate for the external forces on the forceps. We constructed a control system that includes a disturbance compensator and conducted a velocity-control experiment by subjecting the forceps constrained by the insertion port to an external force. The results showed that when the torque was compensated for by the semi-active joints, the load on the insertion port was reduced by 65% and 52% when the external force on the tip of the forceps was 0 N and 3 N, respectively.
Physical Table Identification for Nominal Hydraulic Cylinders and its Application to Pressure Estimation
Authors: Sakai Satoru , Nagai Kazuki , Takahashi Yasuki ,   Shinshu University 4-17-1 Wakasato, Nagano City, Nagano 380-8553, Japan,   Kubota Corporation 64 Ishizukita, Sakai-ku, Osaka 590-0823, Japan
Published: October 2020

The paper provides the first completed version of our identification approach as an intersection of two existing approaches: the physical model approach and the data table approach, for a set of valve flow blocks in nominal hydraulic cylinder dynamics. As one of the well-known physical models, the standard Bernoulli equation needs more accuracy in some cases owing to the steady flow assumption, whereas many data tables often need an expensive flow measurement. The proposed identification approach gives a new matrix representation that resembles the table representation but does not need any flow measurement as well as the steady flow assumption. In particular, unlike the conventional valve flow blocks, the updated valve flow blocks have no empty components via the projection guaranteeing the optimization. The effectiveness is confirmed experimentally by an application to the pressure estimation. The proposed identification approach will be applicable to other blocks including nonlinear friction blocks.
Development of Finger-Wrist Rehabilitation Device Using Pneumatically Driven Parallel Sticks
Authors: Matsui Yasuko , Hosomi Daiki , Takaiwa Masahiro ,   Graduate School of Technology, Industrial and Social Sciences, Tokushima University 2-1 Minamijyousanjima-cho, Tokushima 770-8506, Japan,   Graduate School of Advanced Technology and Science, Tokushima University 2-1 Minamijyousanjima-cho, Tokushima 770-8506, Japan
Published: October 2020

Japan has an aging population, and the number of patients with physical impairment is increasing owing to aging and accidents. A contracture is a state in which joint movements are worsened owing to the hardening and loss of elasticity of the surrounding soft tissue such as muscle and skin, when a patient is immobile or bedridden for long durations. In particular, finger and wrist contractures can cause many inconveniences in daily life. Thus far, some rehabilitation devices have been developed. A power assist glove extends the finger but is difficult for patients to wear. This study focuses on wearability and risk avoidance, and develops a device with two parallel sticks that are driven by pneumatic actuators to simulate the motion of a physical therapist. After verifying the fundamental control performances, the safety function based on the estimated force applied by the patient and the improvement of effectiveness in rehabilitation using a USB camera are discussed.
Design and Modeling of Soft Pneumatic Helical Actuator with High Contraction Ratio
Authors: Yuan Peizheng ,   Tokyo Institute of Technology 2-12-1 Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8552, Japan, Kawano Ginjiro , Tsukagoshi Hideyuki
Published: October 2020

Soft contraction actuators are becoming important elements particularly for human-friendly robotic applications. However, it is challenging to achieve both a large operating distance while generating practical force. Hence, we present a new soft contraction actuator capable of realizing a high ratio contraction by pneumatic power. It can be easily fabricated using soft materials, including rubber tubes, one-way extensible cloth, and inextensible wire. Its initial shape is tubular but it can curve and coil to a helix shape owing to its different extensibilities on two sides when pressurized. A maximum contraction ratio of 78% and a 23 N contraction force can be achieved with an 11.6 mm initial outer diameter tube under 0.3 MPa. The effect of the tilt angle of a one-way extensible cloth on the helical shape is investigated, and a mathematical model illustrating the relationship between the contraction ratio and force is derived. Our experimental results suggest that this helical actuator has a much higher contraction ratio than a McKibben actuator under the same conditions. Finally, we discuss the potential application of the proposed actuator to a wearable device, i.e., for assisting the dorsiflexion of an ankle joint requiring a wide range of motion.
Development of Ankle Support Shoes with Elastomer-Embedded Flexible Joints
Authors: Kikuchi Takehito , Oshimoto Taiki , Abe Isao , Tanaka Kenichiro , Asaumi Yasue , Chijiwa Naoki ,   Faculty of Science and Technology, Oita University 700 Dannoharu, Oita 870-1192, Japan,   Graduate School of Engineering, Oita University 700 Dannoharu, Oita 870-1192, Japan,   Faculty of Welfare and Health Sciences, Oita University 700 Dannoharu, Oita 870-1192, Japan,   Arizono Orthopedic Supplies Co., Ltd. 1-7-5 Higashida, Yahatahigashi-ku, Kitakyusyu, Fukuoka 805-8538, Japan
Published: October 2020

Walking is one of the most important activities in daily living, and difficulty walking presents a severe limitation. In this study, we develop shoes with elastomer-embedded flexible joints (EEFJ) that assist the tibialis anterior in its function during the initial stance and swing phase of the gait cycle. The EEFJ designed is suitable for shoes, with an adjustment mechanism incorporated for easy adjustment. To assess the ease of wearing, we measured the time it took four elderly subjects to wear the shoes for the first time. The donning time was less than one minute for all four participants. Furthermore, no one indicated discomfort when they walked naturally with the shoes. The supporting effect of the EEFJ shoes was assessed for ten healthy male subjects walking with their ankles relaxed. Statistical analysis reveals significant differences in the ankle at initial contact (p=0.02) and maximum plantar flexion (p=0.03). The average angle at initial contact while wearing the EEFJ shoes is 5.3° less than without it, and the average maximum plantar flexion is 5.1° less than without the shoes.
ВОЗМОЖНОСТЬ ОБИТАНИЯ ВОЗБУДИТЕЛЯ COVID- 19 В ВОДНОЙ СРЕДЕ (ОБЗОР ЛИТЕРАТУРЫ)
Authors: Журавлев Петр , Калюжин Александр , Кулак Мария , Алексанина Наталья , Гапон Марина , Твердохлебова Татьяна
Published: October 2020

В настоящей работе представлен обзор научных данных зарубежных и российских исследователей о возможном обитании возбудителя COVID-19 в водной среде, сведений о путях распространения инфекционного агента SARS-CoV-2 и принимаемых мерах по борьбе с ним в водной среде. Показано присутствие возбудителя COVID-19 в различных объектах окружающей среды: системах водоснабжения, сточных водах, поверхностных водах. Определены методы детекции вирусных частиц SARS-CoV-2 на основе выявления штаммов других вирусов в объектах окружающей среды. Это позволило понять, что попадание вируса в экосистему происходит за счёт абсорбирования с различными фомитами. В обзоре представлены результаты работ, проведенных в ряде стран во время пандемии, подтверждающие присутствие COVID-19 в речной воде. Часть исследований указывает на устойчивость вирусных частиц, присутствующих в объектах окружающей среды, к дезинфицирующим средствам, что в свою очередь определяет актуальность углубленных исследований с позиции обеспечения санитарно- противоэпидемического режима на станциях водоподготовки.
Application of classical numerical methods in the calculation of solidification modes of a continuous ingot
Authors: Timoshpolsky V. I. , Marukovich E. I. , Trusova I. A.
Published: October 2020

Thispaperpresentsapproachesto the computational analysis of solidification and cooling processes of continuously cast billets in order to improve and develop technological modes in the conditions of modern continuous casting machines using FEM.

Theapplicationof modern numerical methods for solidification and cooling of workpieces on continuous casting machines is considered. The use of the finite element method is justified when using computational and experimental data for the development and improvement of casting technology.
Determination of the mass fraction of potassium and sodium oxides in the dust of electric furnace filters by atomic emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma
Authors: Makarov V. A. , Savosteenko T. K.
Published: October 2020

A method of measuring the mass fraction of potassium and sodium oxides in the dust filters of electric arc furnaces by atomic emission  spectrometry  with  the  inductively  coupled  plasma  (AES-ICP)  was  developed.  Possibilities  of  atomic  emission spectrometers of iCAP series for determination of potassium and sodium in dust of filters of electric arc furnaces are investigated.

A method for converting potassium and sodium oxides into solution is proposed. Calibration of the spectrometer was carried out on aqueous solutions with a known concentration of potassium and sodium. For the preparation of calibration solutions, chemically pure potassium and sodium salts were used. Analytical lines of potassium and sodium free from spectral overlays are selected.

A good correlation of calibration graphs is obtained. The developed technique is used to determine the mass fraction of potassium and sodium oxides in the dust filters of electric furnaces. Validation of the methodology was carried out. The repeatability of the results was compared with the repeatability of the standardized methodology. iCAP series spectrometers can be used to determine the mass of potassium and sodium oxides in gas cleaning dust.

s cleaning dust.
Nanostructural theory of metal melts. Foundry production and metallurgy
Authors: Marukovich E. I. , Stetsenko V. Yu.
Published: October 2020

It has been shown that atomic and atomic cluster theories cannot be the basis for theories of crystallization and modification of metals and alloys. Based on thermodynamic calculations, a nanostructural theory of metal melts has been developed. In this theory, the main structural elements are not atoms, but nanocrystals. They are thermodynamically stable in the metal melt, so they determine its structure and properties. Crystallization centers consist of nanocrystals. The intensity of aggregation of nanocrystals is determined by the concentration of demodifying surface-active elements. The action of modifiers is explained by the process of linking these elements. Nanostructural theory of metal melts explains the mechanism of action of modifying non-metallic inclusions and intermetallics, the effect of re-modification, high crystallization rate with high cooling intensity of the metal melt. Nanostructural theory of metal melts is the basis for theories of crystallization and modification of metals and alloys.
Remediation of Wells Affected by Scaling on Kashagan Field
Authors: Daulbayev Beibit , Naukanov Bauyrzhan , Khaidarov Yerbol , Esperon Mae , Heinerth Mirko , Freeman Michael , Yan Song
Published: October 2020

Development of the Kashagan field is very complicated and encounters many challenges, such as a harsh offshore environment with an ice season, highly pressurized wells and a high H2S concentration (sour). All these challenges were known during the field construction phase, but after one year of production, another unforeseen challenge emerged– severe downhole scaling in certain oil producers, flowing at very low water cuts (<0.5% water).

Scaling is a widespread and well-known phenomenon in many, often mature fields around the world, but it was not expected to occur in Kashagan in the early stage of field life. Well scaling developed very fast, leading to almost 50% productivity reduction on several wells in a few weeks time. Wellbore scaling put Kashagan production plans at risk, so it was critical to remediate the affected wells as soon as possible. A multi-disciplinary team started work to address the issue.

For most "brown" fields, remediation of wells affected by scaling is a routine job. In the case of Kashagan, which had just started production, downhole scaling was a big challenge for various reasons. Firstly, when rapid productivity decline was observed on some wells, it was not clear what caused the impairment, and a lot of investigative work was done to identify the nature of impairment and root cause (mechanism) behind it. Secondly, scaling badly affected D-island wells, where SIMOPS well intervention capability is highly restricted. D-island is a hub for offshore processing and gas reinjection facilities, located just few hundred meters away from wells, and any well intervention requires the creation of a "yellow zone" and causes significant production deferment. Thirdly, it was clear from the beginning that remediation is a temporary measure, and that it was important to progress from "firefighting" mode to impairment prevention mode, for all wells. Despite all complexities of the task all affected wells were successfully brought back to production and, after various successful anti-scale treatments, fine-tuning of the scaling prevention process is currently ongoing.

Due to the scaling, multiple processes had to be improved, such as metering, wells testing, wells surveillance and well interventions. In the design phase of the project, a well intervention was considered as something extraordinary, and expected to happen rarely, primarily for well integrity issues, not for scaling issues. Well intervention operations became a more routine operations and have started to play a critical role in the integrated activity planning process.

This paper describes how Kashagan wells were affected by wellbore impairment and what actions were made to remediate wells and to return wells to its original productivity.
Detailed Sector Model to Reconcile Surveillance Results and High Permeability, Geologic, Features; Example from Kashagan Field, Kazakhstan
Authors: Stephens Nat P , Yergaliyeva Bakyt , Zhazbayeva Ainur , Uap Berik
Published: October 2020

During early production of Kashagan Field, the surveillance program is critical for understanding connectivity within the reservoir. Pressure transient analysis (PTA) results in the rim facies of the Kashagan carbonate platform show well bore proximity to high permeability features. By integrating the PTA results in a fine-scale geologic model, the presence and magnitude of geologic features, including faults, karst bodies, and open fractures, can be evaluated as an explanation of pressure results.

Good quality pressure transient data can be obtained from down-hole gauges during periods of production down-time. The character of the pressure-response can provide information to interpret reservoir properties such as permeability-thickness (kh) and the effect of geologic features in the vicinity of the well. In the Kashagan rim area, geologic features include seismically-visible karst features, seismically-interpreted faults, and open fractures that can be identified from wireline logs. Because fine-scale details of the flow properties could not be differentiated in the full field simulation model, a fine-scale sector model of the rim area was constructed using Petrel ™ software.

By integrating the surveillance and geologic data, the subsurface team can make several key observations. Rim wells with cavernous karst features contain kh values up to two orders of magnitude higher than stratigraphically-equivalent platform interior wells. Wells that produce from open fractures in the rim are commonly adjacent to seismically visible faults and karst geobodies, and the distance from the well to the seismically-visible geologic feature is similar to the distance estimated from the PTA results. At present, the kh interpretations from PTA are the only direct estimates of permeability for the large geologic features in the Kashagan rim. In a fine-scale 3D sector model, the permeability of the geologic objects, including faults, karst geobodies, and open fractures is statistically distributed using the PTA results.

The fine-scale sector model demonstrates the value of geologic and surveillance data integration in order to understand PTA results. By establishing a relationship between the distance to geologic objects and PTA-based permeability estimates, a powerful predictive model can be developed to better represent the flow along the rim and guide the placement of future drill-wells.
Methodology for Exploration Well Testing with ESP-DST in Caspian Sea. the Case Study in Unconsolidated Sandstone with Heavy Oil
Authors: Dosmukhambetov Issatay , Taubayev Bakhytzhan , Yesbolov Ualikhan , Sadykov Aikhan , Shmalin Muratbek , Akbayev Beibit , Kaipov Yermek , Amanbayev Olzhas , Khaziev Bulat
Published: October 2020

The Caspian offshore is a promising area for hydrocarbon accumulation. Since it is an offshore, it is a challenging area in terms of strict environmental regulations and safety. At the early stage of the project it was clear, that reservoir properties of the exploration well require artificial lift assistance to produce during well testing. Therefore, designing proper DST string with artificial lift was crucial to the success of well testing.

This paper describes the methodology to select the artificial lift solution for well test. It shows the unique combination of technologies and techniques that enabled a DST with ESP in combination with the Y tool, that provides capabilities to run thePLT below the pump. Also, one of the main challenges of well testing operation was to handle heavy oil fluid at surface. Being in environmentally sensitive area, designing a surface well testing equipment in a limited footprint, that enables efficient separation and disposal of heavy oil was very critical. Another challenge was unconsolidated formation with the high risk of sand production under drawdown, therefore downhole testing string and ESP pump supposed to withstand large quantity of solids during the production.

The key technology that enabled testing was a new generation of abrasion resistant ESP pumps, that are designed to handle extensive solids production. The heavy oil also posed a number of risks. The surface equipment was specifically designed to heat oil in the tanks and if required to mix with diesel before flaring operations.

Local regulation does not permit production during the night time and allows limited number of days for well testing. Therefore, well testing design must enable to acquire all necessary information within short period of test duration. The real-time data transmission and interpretation was a key to achieve main goal of the testing in exploration well - to accurately characterize the reservoir.

This was the first successful ESP-DST in Caspian Sea. Despite of many challenges, the technologies that were selected for well testing operation was proven to be reliable. This allowed Operator to untap previously not accessible hydrocarbon reserves.
Predictive Regression Model for Fracturing Fluid Efficiency – Design and Validation Workflow Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Khan Abdul Muqtadir , Jelassi Mohamed Yassine , Yudin Alexey
Published: October 2020

Minifrac testing is widely used in the proppant fracturing design workflow. In a minifrac test, different pumping tests yield critical design parameters; a minifrac test requires significant time to perform. Operational efficiency is a key focus in the industry, and recent techniques employing data science can aid in identifying parameter patterns as an alternative to minifrac testing. A novel machine learning algorithm was applied to an existing database to streamline the redesign process from a multistep to a single-step one in conventional reservoirs.

A regression software package was used for this study. Model datasets were constructed based on well locations and reservoirs to reduce the inherent error. The machine learning model used multivariate linear regression. Model inputs included parameters from an injection test with water: closure pressure, transmissibility, reservoir pressure, and fluid efficiency. Outputs were the design parameters typically evaluated from the calibration injection: fluid efficiency with crosslinked gel. The data were preprocessed by removing outliers. Multicollinearity among independent variables was verified to reduce the redundancy of the input variables. The combination of independent variables was then optimized for the highest R-squared value.

The F-test assessment showed that the model was statistically significant. The standard error of the model was insignificant, enabling treatment design with acceptable accuracy. The ratio of training to testing data was 80:20. For pilot test, an injection test with water was pumped, and the treatment was redesigned based on the prediction of the model using only injection test inputs. The successful placement and the evaluation of the bottomhole pressure behavior during the treatment validated that the design parameters predicted by the statistical model were accurate.

This machine learning technique represents an innovative redesign approach for conventional reservoirs. Implementing the model reduced the complexity of the proppant fracturing treatment redesign process, thus enhancing efficiency, and potentially reduced fracture damage by eliminating minifrac steps with crosslinked gel. Overall operational efficiency was enhanced by 35% to 50%, saving up to 3 days per stage.
The MD-PhD Program in Geneva: A 10-Year Analysis of Graduate Demographics and Outcomes
Authors: ROCHA ANDRE DOS SANTOS , Combescure Cristophe , Negro Francesco
Published: October 2020

Background : MD-PhD programs confer degrees that empower medical doctors with in-depth scientific skills to contribute to biomedical research and academic medicine, alongside clinical practice. Whilst the career options and research opportunities related to graduates following these programs in the US are well documented, little is known about their European counterparts. In this article, we studied graduates who had completed the MD-PhD program at the University of Geneva between 2010 and 2019. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was performed in April 2019, targeting all medical doctors who had obtained the MD-PhD degree from the University of Geneva since 2010. Demographics, opinions, and career outcomes of the MD-PhD graduates were assessed through an online anonymous questionnaire. Results : Twenty-one questionnaires were collected from 31 MD-PhD graduates (response rate 65.5%). Most respondents (57.1%) had performed an MD-PhD training in basic sciences; however, only 14.3% had pursued this type of research thereafter. Most of the respondents held a position at a University hospital (90.5%), although a significant number of them were no longer involved in research in their current position (28.6%). 85.7% mentioned obstacles and challenges in combining clinical duties with research. Despite this, the majority (85.7%) declared that the MD-PhD degree had given them advantages in their career path. Conclusions : Graduates from the MD-PhD program in Geneva were for the most part, satisfied with their training. However, because of the challenges and obstacles in combining clinical duties with research, the implementation of research activities in their current position proved difficult.
Acupuncture for diabetic peripheral neuropathy: study protocol for a randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Deng Haiping , Shu Yu , Lv Peiran , Zhao Ling , Cheng Ke , Zhang Tingting , Song Yi , Yang Hua , Tang Hong , Pei Jian , Shen Xueyong
Published: October 2020

Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is the most common chronic complication of diabetes mellitus that has a considerable impact on quality of life, but there are few effective therapeutic strategies. The aim of this trial is to determine the efficacy and safety of manual acupuncture (MA) versus sham acupuncture (SA) for DPN.Methods/Design: This is a study protocol for a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 118 patients with DPN will be recruited and randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either MA group or SA group. All patients will receive 24 sessions over 12 weeks. Participants will complete the trial by visiting the research center at month 6 for a follow-up assessment. The primary outcome is peroneal motor nerve conduction velocity (peroneal MNCV) at week 12 compared with baseline. Secondary outcomes include peroneal motor nerve action potential amplitude (peroneal MNAP) and latent period (peroneal MNLP), sural sensory nerve conduction velocity (sural SNCV), action potential amplitude (sural SNAP) and latent period (sural SNLP), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-hour postprandial blood glucose (2hPG), glycated hemoglobin (HbAlc) at week 12 compared with baseline, Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI) score and Diabetes Specific Quality of Life scale (DSQL) at week 12 and month 6 compared with baseline. Safety will be assessed during the whole trial. Masking effectiveness will be assessed by patients.Discussion: This trial may provide high-quality evidence for evaluating the efficacy and safety of MA treatment for DPN compared with SA treatment. Results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trials Registry, ID: ChiCTR1800020444. First registered on 29 December 2018 - Retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?Proj =31063
Psychometric properties of women’s satisfaction with the childbirth education class questionnaire for Iranian population
Authors: Hassanzadeh Robab , Jafarabadi Mohammad Asghari , Abbas-Alizadeh Fatemeh , Meedya Shahla , Mohammad-Alizadeh-Charandabi Sakineh , Mirghafourvand Mojgan
Published: October 2020

Background: Childbirth preparation classes can reduce pregnant women’s anxiety and fear for their childbirth. However, to evaluate women’s feedback and their satisfaction with these classes, there is a need for a standard instrument that is suitable for Iranian context. This study is aimed to translate and conduct a psychometric analysis of the Satisfaction with the Childbirth Education Class Questionnaire (SCECQ) for Iranian population. Methods: The questionnaire was translated from English into Persian through the forward-backward translation method. The cluster sampling method was employed to select 205 pregnant women with gestational age of 35-37 weeks from all health complexes of Tabriz, Iran. The face, content, and construct validity of the research instrument were assessed through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were measured to evaluate the overall reliability of the questionnaire.Results: The impact scores of all items were above 1.5. The content validity index (CVI) and content validity ratio (CVR) of the questionnaire were 0.88 and 0.94, respectively. The convergent construct validity of the whole questionnaire and those of its three subscales were confirmed through the exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The factor loadings of no items were below 0.3, and the X2⁄df ratio was smaller than 5. The overall model validity was confirmed by having the Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) smaller than 0.08. Cronbach’s alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were 0.93 and 0.96, respectively, indicating the acceptable reliability of the questionnaire.Conclusion: The Persian version of this questionnaire, entitled SCECQ is a valid and reliable instrument for measuring Iranian women’s satisfaction with childbirth education classes.
Characterizing glycosyltransferases by a combination of sequencing platforms applied to the leaf tissues of Stevia rebaudiana
Authors: zhang shaoshan , Liu Qiong , Lyu Chengcheng , chen Jinsong , xiao Renfeng , chen Jingtian , Yang Yunshu , zhang Huihui , Hou Kai , Wu Wei
Published: October 2020

Background: Stevia rebaudiana (Bertoni) is considered one of the most valuable plants because of the steviol glycosides (SGs) that can be extracted from its leaves. Glycosyltransferases (GTs), which can transfer sugar moieties from activated sugar donors onto saccharide and nonsaccharide acceptors, are widely distributed in the genome of S. rebaudiana and play important roles in the synthesis of steviol glycosides. Results: Six stevia genotypes with significantly different concentrations of SGs were obtained by induction through various mutagenic methods, and the contents of seven glycosides (stevioboside, Reb B, ST, Reb A, Reb F, Reb D and Reb M) in their leaves were considerably different. Then, NGS and single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing were combined to analyse leaf tissue from these six different genotypes to generate a full-length transcriptome of S. rebaudiana. Two phylogenetic trees of glycosyltransferases (SrUGTs) were constructed by the neighbour-joining method and successfully predicted the functions of SrUGTs involved in SG biosynthesis. With further insight into glycosyltransferases (SrUGTs) involved in SG biosynthesis, the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) method was used to characterize the relationships between SrUGTs and SGs, and forty-four potential SrUGTs were finally obtained, including SrUGT85C2, SrUGT74G1, SrUGT76G1 and SrUGT91D2, which have already been reported to be involved in the glucosylation of steviol glycosides, illustrating the reliability of our results.Conclusion: Combined with the results obtained by previous studies and those of this work, we systematically characterized glycosyltransferases in S. rebaudiana and forty-four candidate SrUGTs involved in the glycosylation of steviol glucosides were obtained. Moreover, the full-length transcriptome obtained in this study will provide valuable support for further research investigating S. rebaudiana.
Microorganisms and clinical outcomes of early- and late-onset ventilator-associated pneumonia at Srinagarind Hospital, a tertiary center in Northeastern Thailand
Authors: Tamura Yuichi , Kumamaru Hiraku , Abe Kohtaro , Satoh Toru , Miyata Hiroaki , Ogawa Aiko , Tanabe Nobuhiro , Hatano Masaru , Yao Atsushi , Tsujino Ichizo , Fukuda Keiichi , Kimura Hiroshi , Kuwana Masataka , Matsubara Hiromi , Tatsumi Koichiro
Published: October 2020

Back ground: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a common nocosomial infection in intensive care unit (ICU). Local microbiological surveillance of pathogens and resistance patterns for early-onset VAP (EOVAP) and late-onset VAP (LOVAP) will help to choose appropriate empiric antibiotics. Objective: To compare the multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens, treatment outcomes, and factors associated with hospital mortality of VAP. Method: A cross-sectional study between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2017 at Srinagarind hospital, Khon Kaen University was conducted. The demographic data, causative pathogens, hospital length of stay (LOS), ICU LOS, mechanical ventilator (MV) days, and hospital mortality were retrospectively reviewed. Results: One hundred and ninety patients were enrolled; 42 (22%) were EOVAP and 148 (78%) were LOVAP. Acinetobacter baummanii was the most common pathogen in both groups (50 % EOVAP vs 52.7% LOVAP). MDR pathogens were significant greater in LOVAP (81.8 %) than EOVAP (61.9%) (p = 0.007). The EOVAP had a significantly better ICU LOS (median 20.0 (11.0, 30.0) vs. 26.5 (17.0, 43.0) days), hospital LOS (median 26.5 (15.0, 44.0) vs. 35.5 (24.0, 56.0) days) shorter MV days (14.0 (10.0, 29.0) vs. 23.0 (14.0, 35.5) days) and lower hospital mortality (11.9 % VS 27.7%) than LOVAP ( p < 0.05). The factor associated with hospital mortality was having simplified acute physiology score (SAP) ≥ 40 with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 2.22 (95%CI, 1.08-4.54, p = 0.02). Conclusion: LOVAP had significantly higher MDR pathogens, MV days, ICU LOS, hospital LOS and hospital mortality than EOVAP. A broad-spectrum antibiotic to cover MDR pathogens should be considered in LOVAP. The factor associated with hospital mortality of VAP was a SAPII score ≥ 40.
The Effectiveness of Battlefield Acupuncture in Addition to Standard Physical Therapy Treatment after Shoulder Surgery: A Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Crowell Michael S , Brindle Richard A , Mason John S , Pitt William J , Miller Erin M , Posner Matthew A , Cameron Kenneth L , Goss Donald L.
Published: October 2020

Introduction: There is a large incidence of shoulder instability among active young athletes and military personnel. Shoulder stabilization surgery is the commonly employed intervention for treating individuals with instability. Following surgery, a substantial proportion of individuals experience acute post-operative pain, which is usually managed with opioid pain medications. Unfortunately, the extended use of opioid medications can have adverse effects that impair function and reduce military operational readiness, but there are currently few alternatives. However, Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA) is a minimally invasive therapy demonstrating promise as a non-pharmaceutical intervention for managing acute post-operative pain.Methods: This is a parallel, two-arm, single-blind randomized clinical trial. The two independent variables are intervention (2 levels; standard physical therapy and standard physical therapy plus Battlefield Acupuncture) and time (5 levels; 24-hours, 48-hours, 72-hours, 1-week, and 4-weeks post shoulder stabilization surgery). The primary dependent variables is worst and average pain as measured on the Visual Analog Scale. Secondary outcomes include medication usage, Profile of Mood States, and Global Rating of Change.Discussion: The magnitude of the effect of BFA is uncertain; current studies report confidence intervals of between group differences that include minimal clinically important differences between intervention and control groups. The results of this study may help determine if BFA is an effective adjunct to physical therapy in reducing pain and opioid usage in acute pain conditions. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04094246. Registered 16 September 2019, http://clinicaltrials.gov/NCT04094246.
Genome-wide Identification of Powdery Mildew Resistance in Common Bean
Authors: Binagwa Papias Hongera , Traore Sy M. , Egnin Marceline , Bernard Gregory C. , Ritte Inocent , Mortley Desmond , Kamfwa Kelvin , He Guohao , Bonsi Conrad C.
Published: October 2020

Background: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been utilized to detect genetic variations related to the powdery mildew (PM) resistance and several agronomic traits in common bean. However, its application in common bean and the PM interactions to identify genes and their location in the common bean genome has not been fully addressed.Results: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) through marker-trait association are useful molecular tools for the identification of disease resistance and other agronomic traits. SNP genotyping with a BeadChip containing 5398 SNPs was used to detect genetic variations related to resistance to PM disease in a panel of 211 genotypes grown under field conditions for two consecutive years. Significant SNPs identified on chromosomes Pv04 and Pv10 were repeatable, confirming the reliability of the phenotypic data scored from the genotypes grown in two locations within two years. A cluster of resistance genes was revealed on the Pv04 of common bean genome among which CNL and TNL like resistance genes were identified. Furthermore, two resistance genes Phavu_010G1320001g and Phavu_010G136800g were also identified on Pv10; further sequence analysis showed that these genes were homologs to the Arabidopsis disease resistance protein (RLM1A-like) and the putative disease resistance protein (At4g11170.1), respectively. Two LRR receptor-like kinases (RLK) were also identified on Pv11 in samples collected in 2018 only. Many genes encoding auxin-responsive protein, TIFY10A protein, growth-regulating factor 5-like, ubiquitin-like protein, cell wall protein RBR3-like protein related to PM resistance were identified nearby significant SNPs. These results suggested that the resistance to PM pathogen involves a network of many genes constitutively co-expressed and may generate several layers of defense barriers or inducible reactions.Conclusion: Our results provide new insights into common bean and PM interactions, and revealed putative resistance genes as well as their location on common bean genome that could be used for marker-assisted selection, functional genomic study approaches to confirm the role of these putative genes; hence, developing common bean resistance lines to the PM disease.
Evaluation of the Autof MS1000 mass spectrometer in the identification of clinical isolates
Authors: Ma Qiong , Zhang Qi , Yuan Youhua , Yan Wenjuan , Wang Shanmei , Xu Junhong , Zhang Jiangfeng , Wang Yuming , Li Yi
Published: October 2020

Background: To evaluate the accuracy and performance of the Autof MS1000 mass spectrometer in bacteria and yeast identification, 2,342 isolates were obtained from microbial cultures of clinical specimens (e.g. blood, cerebrospinal fluid, respiratory tract samples, lumbar puncture fluid, wound samples, stool, and urine) collected in 2019 in Henan Provincial People’s Hospital. Repetitive strains from the same patient were excluded. We tested the Autof MS1000 and Bruker Biotyper mass spectrometry systems and the classical biochemical identification system VITEK 2/API 20C AUX. Inconsistencies in strain identification among the three systems were identified by 16S rDNA and gene sequencing.Results: At the species level, the Autof MS1000 and Bruker Biotyper systems had isolate identification accuracies of 98.9% and 98.5%, respectively. At the genus level, the Autof MS1000 and Bruker Biotyper systems were 99.7% and 99.4% accurate, respectively. The instruments did not significantly differ in identification accuracy at either taxonomic level. The frequencies of unreliable identification were 1.1% (26/2,342) for the Autof MS1000 and 1.5% (34/2,342) for the Bruker Biotyper. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the coincidence rate of the Autof MS1000 mass spectrometer in the identification of five types of bacteria was >93%, the identification error rate was <3%, and the no identification rate was 0. This indicates that the Autof MS1000 system is acceptable for identification.Conclusions: The Autof MS1000 mass spectrometer can be utilised to identify clinical isolates. However, an upgradation of the database is recommended to correctly identify rare strains.