bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatially Resolved CFD-DEM Modelling and Experimental Validation for Enhanced Sand Retention Understanding in Standalone Screen Completions
Authors: Razak R. , Alosail M. S. , Musa K. I. , Gago P. A. , Chen Z. , Tyson S. , Rahman S. S.
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to enhance the understanding of sand retention mechanism in oil and gas wells through a coupled CFD-DEM approach and innovative laboratory experiments. The motivation stems from the economic impact of sand production, where standalone screens serve as cost-effective alternatives to gravel-pack completions. However, existing selection criteria are limited under certain operating conditions. This study addresses these limitations by focusing on the often-overlooked role of the deposited bulk filter bed on the screen, a critical factor in sand retention.

Utilising a spatially resolved CFD-DEM model, this study simulates the sand retention process, extending beyond basic parameters like the mass of sand particles produced. It incorporates a comprehensive analysis of filter bed growth, porosity, and permeability, which significantly impact the productivity index of the fluid rather than the screen itself. The permeability analysis includes both the numerical filter bed and the screen, inherently addressing screen plugging. A novel experimental methodology benchmarks the numerically derived single-phase permeability of the filter bed using micro-CT images of experimentally derived filter beds.

The findings demonstrate strong matches between the CFD-DEM simulations and laboratory experiments, validating the numerical model and showing consistent porosity and single-phase permeability of the filter bed. These results highlight that the dominant filter medium is the filter bed rather than the screen itself. This contributes to a more nuanced understanding of sand retention systems, with implications for optimising standalone sand screen selection criteria in screen-only completions.

The novelty of this research lies in its holistic approach to sand retention systems, considering the interplay between the filter bed and standalone screens. By addressing existing criteria limitations and incorporating a detailed analysis of filter bed properties, the presented CFD-DEM model provides a foundation for improving selection criteria. This model lays the groundwork for future analyses, exploring parameters to determine optimal conditions for maximising sand retention while maintaining hydrocarbon productivity in screen-only well completions.
Comparative Analysis and Suggestions for Sucker Rod Pump Working Condition Diagnosis Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Sun Y. , Wang H. , Zhang X. , Yang J. , Wang C. , Shao J. , Zhao R. , He J. , Shi J. , Zhang X. , Jiang M. , Liao C. , Zeng X. , Ma G. , Wang S. , Hu D. , Yu Y. , Li Y.
Published: October 2024

This study explores the application of six state-of-the-art image classification models—ResNet, MobileNet, EfficientNet, ViT, EfficientViT, and MobileViT—in diagnosing sucker rod pump faults using dynamometer cards. The models, fine-tuned from pre-trained models developed on ImageNet-1k, are evaluated on a dataset of 11,941 dynamometer cards. Our findings demonstrate a significant inverse correlation between model accuracy and the number of trainable parameters, notably with EfficientViT achieving the highest accuracy (95.73%) despite having fewer parameters. This suggests that simpler, but more efficient models can outperform more complex architectures in specific tasks like SRP diagnosis. Through Grad-CAM visualization, we analyzed model predictions to identify critical features, highlighting ResNet's superior generalization ability and robustness. This work provides insights into model selection and data preparation, aiming to enhance the reliability and efficiency of SRP working condition diagnosis models.
Intelligent Approach for Estimating CO2-Brine Relative Permeability in Carbon Capture and Storage Process Based on Deep Learning: A Case Study of Aquifer Under the South China Sea
Authors: Wang Lian , Zhang Liang , Deng Rui , Wang Hehua , Zhao Xing , Kang Bo , Xu Bing , Jiang Liping , Deng Qi
Published: October 2024

Geological storage of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the brine aquifer is a dual-benefit strategy for mitigating greenhouse gases and advancing carbon capture and storage (CCS). Meanwhile, the gas-water relative permeability (RP) of CO2 and brine provides fundamental insights into flow behavior in the aquifer which plays an essential role in evaluating the carbon storage capacity. Consequently, establishing an economic and useful approach for obtaining the gas-water RP curve in the CCS process is urgently needed. In this study, an intelligent yet accurate model, called DL-MICP, for estimating the gas-water RP curve in the CCS process adopting deep learning (DL) techniques and experimental mercury injection capillary pressure (MICP). Specifically, the DL methods and experimental data including the Gramian angular field (GAF), the convolutional long short-term memory (ConvLSTM), self-supervised learning framework, curves of mercury injection and withdrawal, and distribution of pore size are utilized in the DL-MICP approach for evaluating CO2-brine RP curves. To validate the superior and effective performance of the DL-MICP approach, the experimental data of aquifer samples under the South China sea is applied, in which 38 small-sample data spaces are utilized for training and 9 samples for testing. It is found that the average errors are 3.32% and 2.58% for the CO2 and brine RP curves, respectively. In addition, the superior accuracy of the DL-MICP method is demonstrated through the comparative study against classical convolutional neural network (CNN) and long short-term memory (LSTM) models. This study combined deep learning techniques and mercury injection capillary pressure to efficiently realize the rapid intelligent prediction of CO2-brine RP curves that facilitate the evaluation of the CO2 injection capacity and flow behaviors in the CCS process. To this end, this intelligent DL-MICP method achieved the goal of obtaining CO2-brine RP curves in excellent accordance with experimental data without costly and time-consuming experimental measuring.
Effect of Rough Surface and Moisture Content on the Competitive Adsorption off CO2/CH4 Mixtures in Orthoclase Nanopores with the Insight for Carbon Storage
Authors: Hu Hao , Liu Yueliang , Rui Zhenhua , Qian Cheng , Kai Du , Mao Zhiqiang , Jiang Hongzhi , Wang Hao , LI DEQIAN
Published: October 2024

Injecting CO2 into shale reservoirs can enhance shale gas recovery and store CO2 to help mitigate global warming. Orthoclase is a key mineral in shale reservoirs. To understand the competitive adsorption mechanism of CO2/CH4 mixtures in orthoclase nanopores under various conditions, we employed molecular simulations. Using three different orthoclase nanopore models—dry, water-containing, and rough—we studied the adsorption behavior of CO2, CH4 single component gas and their binary mixtures in orthoclase pores with the Grand Canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) method. We comprehensively considered the effects of temperature (303.15-393.15 K), pressure (0-30 MPa), gas molar volume fraction, water content, and surface roughness on the adsorption characteristics of gas molecules in 3nm orthoclase pores. In dry orthoclase nanopores, the adsorption of CO2 decreases while CH4 adsorption increases with rising temperature and pressure, with CO2 being adsorbed more than CH4. CO2's interaction energy is primarily electrostatic, whereas CH4's is mainly van der Waals, leading to different patterns in their adsorption heat curves. The gas mole fraction has a much greater effect on CO2 in binary mixtures compared to CH4. In water-containing pores, the adsorption capacity of both gas components introduced into the pores of orthoclase is inhibited, with water having a significantly greater inhibitory effect on CO2 than on CH4. At 10 MPa, the adsorption heat of CO2 is 12.684 kcal/mol when the water content is 0, and it decreases to 3.273 kcal/mol when the water content increases to 6%, a decrease of about 74%. Surface roughening increases the retention of CO2 and CH4 in surface "depressions," significantly influencing CO2 storage and CH4 recovery. This study elucidates the mechanism of competitive gas adsorption in orthoclase-rich shale reservoirs, offering theoretical support for the advancement of CO2 storage and natural gas enhanced recovery (CSEGR) technologies.
A Comprehensive Machine Learning Algorithm Based Methodology for Intelligent Water Injection Optimization - Case Study of D Field in Asia
Authors: Li X. , Zhang J. , Liu H. , Luo X. , Du K. , Hou B. , Wang L.
Published: October 2024

In the oilfield development by water flooding, lower injection rate results in insufficient reservoir energy. Conversely, a higher injection rate usually results in an early breakthrough and rapid water cut development, which causes serious invalid and low-efficiency water cycling. The development of fine separated layer water injection technology which improves the water injection effect can better adapt to multi-layered reservoir and can alleviate the interlayer conflicts. Meanwhile, more accurate injection allocation is required to achieve good performance. Fine optimization of suitable water injection rate of each well and interval is critical for effective and successful water injection.

This paper presents a fast and intelligent water injection allocation method based on comprehensive machine learning algorithm. The evaluation indexes of injection performance are established by integrating dynamic production data, such as injection-production ratio, water consumption rate, water cut, injection intensity, daily oil production capacity. According to the evaluation indexes, it is necessary to determine the water injection adjustment to achieve better effects. Random forest algorithm (RF) is applied to determine the allocation type for wells and intervals, such as strengthened, controlled, and unaltered wells and intervals. Subsequently, the multi-objective simulated annealing algorithm (MOSA) is chosen to specify the water injection rate and proportion for each well and interval that needs to be adjusted. This intelligent water injection optimization methodology is formed to realize scientific and reasonable water injection allocation.

The water injection plan optimized through intelligent methodology was successfully implemented in a pilot project in the D oilfield which is a multi-layered sandstone reservoir in Asia. The selection and optimization of plan is as the goal of high oil and liquid production and low water cut. Dynamic data of the pilot, collected over eight months after applying this optimal plan, indicate that the single well oil production capacity increased from 1.42 to 1.5 tons per day, reflecting an increase of 5.6%. The water cut decreased from 96.33% to 95.93%, showing a slight decrease of 0.4 percent without any subsequent increase. The injection-production ratio improved from 1.04 to 1.05 with an increase of 0.01. The intelligent water injection optimization method has yielded favorable development effects.

The new method promotes reasonable allocation and water injection development to fine and intelligent. It also provides a methodology and reference case for reservoir and production engineers to develop other similar fields.
Optimizing Gas Condensate Subsea Tiebacks: Lessons Learned from Unload to Host Operations
Authors: Zhang J. , Shepherd A. G.
Published: October 2024

Gas condensate subsea tiebacks increasingly favor Unload to Host (U2H) operations over traditional Unload to Rig for enhanced execution efficiency and cost reduction. They further eliminate the need for temporary floating production units to partially unload wellbore liquids/solids and introduce first gas with flaring. While U2H brings significant benefits like HSE risk mitigation, it also poses integrity and operability challenges to new and existing facilities. This paper will present case studies and lessons learned from U2H operations conducted on multiple gas condensate subsea tiebacks. Key focus areas include understanding the impact of U2H fluid composition on LNG production, selecting subsea preservation liquids to balance hydrate and corrosion risks, and optimizing liquid handling and inventory management at host facilities. Additional considerations cover solids management during wellbore and pipeline transport, solids filtration at host facilities, and effective production chemistry management with a tailored sampling plan and temporary chemical injection package readiness. The outlined learnings emphasize the critical need for upfront planning on U2H operation, advocating an integrated multidisciplinary approach to influence new facilities designs as well as to minimize last-minute changes during execution. Overall, the aim of this work is to highlight operational excellence for flow back to host where asset integrity and production optimization can assist to unlock value if risks are well-understood and managed.
Dehydration Unit Failure in CCS Hubs – Managing Risk through Detailed Analysis
Authors: Shen R. , Henriksson J. , Stokes S.
Published: October 2024

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) hubs are considered a cost-effective means for industries to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions through access to shared infrastructure. However, impurities in the emitters’ CO2 streams alter the physical properties and behaviour of the fluid, introducing integrity risks. CO2 is highly corrosive in the presence of agitated bulk condensed water, with carbon steel pipework corrosion rates potentially ranging from 0.5 mm/year to greater than 10 mm/year. The primary control mechanism is to set a specification on impurity levels, including water. Regardless, individual emitters, albeit infrequently, will experience control failures that result in off-specification fluids entering the network. This manuscript considers a CCS hub dehydration plant failure and demonstrates how detailed simulations facilitate effective risk management.

A dehydration upset will result in wet CO2 being fed into the dry (previously on-specification) carbon steel pipeline network. Accurately simulating the migration of the wet CO2 and the propensity for free water drop-out are critical to establishing an appropriate operator response. The first challenge is to determine the solubility of water in the CO2-rich fluid. A literature review of experimental data and equation of state performance for water solubility in CO2 is presented, with commentary on impurity impact. The second challenge is to model the water dew point line, determine the quantity of free water formed as a function of pipeline operating conditions, and understand the resultant extent of water migration. This work demonstrates the use of a thermohydraulic simulator to track the concentration of water through the system over time.

Different simulation scenarios of off-specification events are assessed, and the study demonstrates that modelling the exposure to risk of free water driven corrosion in the CO2 pipeline is subject to uncertainty and highly sensitive to model setup. It is therefore important to understand the simulation models and simulators in use as different interpretations of simulation results may lead to different operator responses, making an informed modeller / engineer essential to determining the risk during off-specification events and hence advise the appropriate response. The results also show that the appropriate action depends on the circumstances, making predictive simulations critical. A design analysis, as presented here, can only investigate a limited number of scenarios, leading to the conclusion that subsequent operations would benefit from an online flow management tool (FMT) to provide situational awareness and track the water distribution through the entire network. An FMT will provide the operator with far more information than physical metering alone to inform risk-based control strategies.
Performance Analysis of Eco-Friendly Palm Oil Biodiesel as a Replacement for Diesel Oil in Drilling Mud Applications
Authors: Bataee M. , Wong S. , Khur W. S. , Bennour Z. , Mostofi M. , Hamdi Z.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the potential of palm-based biodiesel mud as a feasible alternative to conventional diesel-based mud for drilling operations. The rheological properties, including mud density, viscosity, plastic viscosity (PV), apparent viscosity, gel strength, yield point (YP), and filtration properties, were measured and compared. Eight mud samples were prepared using diesel and palm-based biodiesel oils with various additives. The results indicate that palm-based biodiesel mud generally has higher densities and comparable rheological properties to diesel-based mud. While the yield points of diesel-based mud samples were slightly higher, the differences were not substantial except in specific cases. The study also found that palm-based biodiesel mud exhibited favorable filtration loss characteristics and consistent gel strength values, indicating its suitability for maintaining wellbore stability and effective cuttings transport. The minor differences in plastic viscosity and the consistent performance in mud filtration tests further support the viability of palm-based biodiesel mud. Overall, this research demonstrates that palm-based biodiesel mud can be a promising and environmentally friendly alternative to diesel-based mud in drilling operations. Future studies should focus on optimizing the mud's density and conducting field tests under various drilling conditions to validate its practical application.
Evaluation of Sand Screen Performance Through Correlation Between Air Velocity, Sand Injection Rate, Test Duration, and Screen Type with Slot Opening Size in Sand Erosion Testing (SET) Equipment
Authors: Maoinser M. A. , Zainal A. Z. , Tham K. M. , XianLung I. C. , Madon B.
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study is to assess the correlation between air velocity, sand injection rate, test duration, screen type, and slot opening size of the sand screen during testing in the sand erosion test (SET) equipment. Additionally, a correlation will be developed at the conclusion of this study. The Sand Erosion Test (SET) equipment is utilized to assess the effectiveness of the sand screen based on its slot opening size. Several parameters are considered, including air velocity (ranging from 10 to 200 ft/s), sand injection rate (between 1.5 and 3.0 g/min), and test duration (0 to 48 hours). Prior to testing, the slot size of the sand screen is verified to match the supplier-provided value. Post-testing, the sand screen size is re-evaluated after both the 2-hour and 48-hour intervals. Testing ceases if the slot size opening exceeds 50 μm. Each slot's opening size is measured at three points. Data is then recorded and analyzed using Design Expert 12 software. The significance of the developed model is assessed through Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and a mathematical model is derived from this analysis. After conducting the test, it was noted that there exists a linear relationship among the factors—air velocity, sand injection rate, time, screen type, and slot opening size. The model derived from the data analyzed in this study, as produced by the Design Expert software, demonstrates significance and accuracy. Additionally, it indicates that the test duration and screen type exhibit greater significance in influencing the increase of slot opening size compared to other factors like air velocity and test duration. The correlation between these factors and the response has been developed and is presented as a novelty within this study. This study established a correlation among air velocity (A), sand injection rate (B) and test duration (C).
Pioneering Perforation, Wash and Bismuth Plug for Groundbreaking Revolution and Decommissioning and Abandonment
Authors: Talapatra Didhiti , Kuijken Chris , Carragher Paul
Published: October 2024

This paper presents the first Plug and Abandonment (P&A) operation in Malaysia that utilized Bismuth Alloy as an innovative abandonment material. The operator employed a novel approach by placing the Bismuth Alloy Barrier not within a milled window, but rather in the annulus against the formation through perforations that had been meticulously washed to remove the original cement.

The choice of Bismuth Alloy P&A barrier over conventional materials was motivated by the desire for a more efficient and compact solution. The Bismuth Alloy barrier, requiring only 6 feet in length, provides superior integrity compared to a standard 120-foot conventional P&A barrier. This significant reduction in length enabled the operator to create a shorter window, a strategic advantage given the milling efficiency limitations of the hydraulic workover rig used for the P&A operations. The operator further innovated by replacing the planned 20-foot section milled window with a 6.2-foot casing perforation run, followed by precise cement removal using high-efficiency washing techniques. Subsequently, three Bismuth Alloy plugs were installed across the zone, marking a paradigm shift in operational methodology.

Firstly, this paper highlights the distinctive sealing mechanism of Bismuth Alloy, demonstrating how its expansive forces during the solidification process provide enduring benefits as a P&A barrier. Secondly, the paper delves into the business case for Bismuth Alloy P&A, contrasting the conventional approach with the innovative Bismuth Alloy P&A method featuring a shorter 20-foot section milled window, and ultimately introducing the groundbreaking 6-foot Perf Wash Bismuth P&A. This evolution represents a significant leap in P&A operational efficiency, resulting in reduced rig time, lower Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) and operational Non-Productive Time (NPT) exposure, decreased emissions, and, most importantly, enhanced barrier integrity. Thirdly, the paper details the comprehensive Perf Wash Bismuth business process. This innovative system involved the installation of three Bismuth Alloy Plugs, covering the 13-3/8" perforated casing wellbore and the 13-3/8" × 18-1/2" open hole annulus. The results illustrate a transformative approach to P&A operations, underscoring the efficacy and benefits of utilizing Bismuth Alloy in well abandonment. This pioneering operation in Malaysia sets a new standard for future P&A projects, emphasizing the importance of adopting advanced materials and techniques to achieve optimal well integrity and environmental safety.
An Innovative Method for PDC Bit Design Enhances Stability and Durability Without Deteriorating ROP: Case Studies in Challenging Swamp and Offshore Wells, East Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Hermawan A. , Andoni B. , Wiharja A. , Agriawan C. , Yudhatama M. , Sayogyo B. , Kartaatmadja H. , Nurmida A. , Hendarno B. , Dwikara A. , Sutan M. A. , Huway K. D. , Aribowo T. H.
Published: October 2024

In East Kalimantan offshore drilling operations, Polycrystalline Diamond Compact (PDC) drill bits featuring six-bladed, 16-mm cutters have been predominately used in an 8½-in. hole section. However, a standard S-type well for an 8½-in. hole section in the Handil Field with long interval drilling and deep vertical depth out presents a challenge of high stick/slip vibration. Meanwhile, in the Jempang Field, drilling through various formations consisting of sandstone, claystone, thick limestone, and hard shale using motor assembly could result in bit damage and slow rate of penetration (ROP).

The operator and bit service company used a new approach in the bit selection process to seek a new PDC design and technology that enables drilling in a single run to target depth (TD) with improved durability and stability while achieving high penetration rates. A PDC with seven-bladed 16-mm cutters with the latest cutter-shaped technology was proposed to improve bit durability and drill the entire section in one run at a higher ROP. A new bit design software, coupled with the recommendation for an optimal PDC cutter distribution structure, ensures the bit will improve stability.

The result shows a new design with seven-bladed, 16-mm cutters achieved one run to TD and set the fastest ROP compared to previous cases with six-bladed, 16-mm cutters in both the Handil Field and the Jempang Field. The bit also came out of the well in excellent condition or much better dull condition. In addition, with the combination of this new approach in PDC design and optimal parameters, the stick/slip issue could also be minimized in this first trial in the Handil Field.

This new approach of using a new seven-bladed PDC design with 16-mm cutters that incorporate superior PDC cutter technology and shape has delivered a step change in bit selection to achieve improved durability without compromising on ROP for challenging offshore drilling operations.
Time-Lapse Electromagnetic Corrosion Logging for Predictive Analysis of Pipe Corrosion Rates
Authors: Zulkefli Siti Nor Dahliawati , Zabidi Nur Aina Atikah Mohd Jamel , Baweh Ahmad Azhan Imam , Md Fauzi Ashraf Hidayat , Khonif Hasrul Afendi Ahmad , Anuar Khairina Khairul
Published: October 2024

Operating wells are often exposed to pipes wall corrosion over their operational lifespan. Thus, this highlights the critical need for systematic monitoring and effective management for corrosion. Time-lapse corrosion logging is employed using electromagnetic pulses to assess corrosion rates and predict potential failures in pipes integrity. Utilizing electromagnetic concepts, the goal is to monitor the progress of corrosion and conduct a comparative analysis to determine the percentage of pipe corrosion over an extended timeframe. The process involves a year-long time-lapse corrosion logging initiative, analyzing pipes wall thickness, and conducting comparative assessments to monitor corrosion rates. It includes measuring changes in electromagnetic properties, unveiling potential metal losses across logging intervals. The implementation of magnetic corrosion detection logging assesses average circular metal loss, with the maximum metal loss serving as a standard for corrosion classification. The process estimates wall thickness within the fracture over time, especially during the operational lifespan of the wells.

In the thorough evaluation conducted through time-lapse corrosion logging, the study observed that the percentage of wall losses of the water injector wells throughout logging interval increased. The casing exposure to corrosion can progressively reduce wall thickness over time, revealed by the damage profiles across the analyzed interval. This in-depth observation enhances understanding of dynamic corrosion progression, contributing to a detailed evaluation of the pipe's structural integrity. The significance of these observations lies in predicting potential well integrity failures, especially for wells with tubing-casing communication issues. Actively measuring the remaining thickness of the casing helps establish pressure limits, making it easier to manage the structural integrity effectively and ensure sustained wells performance.

The time-lapse corrosion logging approach provides a dynamic, real-time understanding of corrosion progression within pipes. Unlike static assessments, this method captures evolving corrosion patterns, enhancing predictive capabilities for well integrity. This time-lapse data enables effective structural integrity management, optimized maintenance strategies, and timely mitigation of potential failures, elevating overall system reliability and performance.
Widespread environment-specific causal effects detected in the UK Biobank
Authors: Knusel Leona , Man Alice , Paré Guillaume , Kutalik Zoltán
Published: October 2024

Background: Mendelian Randomization (MR) is a widely used tool to infer causal relationships. Yet, little research has been conducted on the elucidation of environment specific causal effects, despite mounting evidence for the relevance of causal effect modifying environmental variables.
Methods: To investigate potential modifications of causal effects, we extended two-stage-least-squares MR to investigate interaction effects (2SLS-I). We first tested 2SLS-I in a wide range of realistic simulation settings including quadratic and environment-dependent causal effects. Next, we applied 2SLS-I to investigate how environmental variables such as age, socioeconomic deprivation, and smoking modulate causal effects between a range of epidemiologically relevant exposure (such as systolic blood pressure, education, and body fat percentage) - outcome (e.g. forced expiratory volume (FEV1), CRP, and LDL cholesterol) pairs (in up to 337’392 individuals of the UK biobank).
Results: In simulations, 2SLS-I yielded unbiased interaction estimates, even in presence of non-linear causal effects. Applied to real data, 2SLS-I allowed for the detection of 182 interactions (P<0.001), with age, socioeconomic deprivation, and smoking being identified as important modifiers of many clinically relevant causal effects. For example, the positive causal effect of Triglycerides on systolic blood pressure was significantly attenuated in the elderly whilst the positive causal effect of Gamma-glutamyl transferase on CRP was intensified in smokers.
Conclusion: We present 2SLS-I, a method to simultaneously investigate environment-specific and non-linear causal effects. Our results highlight the importance of environmental variables in modifying well-established causal effects.
Upregulated FSP1 by GPD1/1L Mediated Lipid Droplet Accumulation Enhances Ferroptosis Resistance and Peritoneal Metastasis in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Li Shuai , Lin Guoliang , Liu Qingnan , Xie Chengjie , Ding Ke , Mo Guanghua , Zeng Lu , Zhang Fan , Liu RuiXuan , Lu Lei , Hong Wei , Mao Yuling , Su Haibo
Published: October 2024

To successfully metastasize, cancer cells must evade detachment induced cell death, known as anoikis. Unraveling the mechanisms that gastric cancer (GC) circumvent anoikis and achieve peritoneal metastasis especially during unanchored growth, could significantly improve patient outcomes. Our study reveals that GC cells exhibit increased lipid peroxidation, MDA production, and cell death during suspension culture, which can be mitigated by the intervention with liproxstatin-1 and ferrostatin-1. We discovered that oleic acid (OA) or adipocytes stimulate lipid accumulation in GC cells, thereby inhibiting lipid peroxidation and cell death. Lipid mass spectrometry confirmed an upregulation of triglyceride synthesis, indicating that the accumulation of lipid droplet may confer resistance to ferroptosis during suspension growth. In vitro assays demonstrated that OA not only induces lipid droplet accumulation but also upregulates the expression of ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1), a process that can be abrogated by the double knockout of GPD1/1L genes. Additionally, we have demonstrated that a decrease in the ubiquitination of FSP1 in GC cells upon lipid droplet accumulation, as well as silencing or pharmacological targeting FSP1, promotes ferroptosis and disrupts the peritoneal metastatic potential of GC cells. Collectively, our findings highlight the potential of FSP1 as a promising therapeutic target for metastatic gastric cancer.
Clinicopathological factors that predict different responses of breast and axillary tumors to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and prognosis among patients with node-positive breast cancer: real world data
Authors: Ji Danyang , Lan Bo , Wang Jiayu , Ma Fei , Luo Yang , Li Qing , Zhang Pin , Cai Ruigang , Li Qiao , Chen Shanshan , Xu Binghe , Fan Ying
Published: October 2024

Background:
Pathological complete response (pCR) has been proven to be related to prognosis. pCR can be further classified as pCR of the breast (bpCR), pCR of axillary lymph nodes (apCR) or pCR of both tumors. The aim of this study was to elucidate the outcomes and clinicopathological characteristics associated with different patterns of pCR.
Methods:
Patients with node-positive disease who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy between August 2009 and July 2016 and who achieved pCR in axillary lymph nodes, breast or both were included. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors related to different patterns of pCR.
Results:
Among the 271 patients who were included in the study, 42.1% achieved total pCR, 46.1% achieved ApCR, and 11.8% achieved BpCR. Disease-free survival (DFS) was significantly better in the total pCR group than in the limited pCR groups throughout the entire cohort (p=0.042). Univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that patients with HR-negative disease and a high Ki-67 proliferation index were more likely to achieve total pCR. Patients with earlier T stage disease were more likely to achieve pCR only in the breast. Among patients who achieved limited pCR, there was no significant difference in terms of whether these patients received intensified adjuvant chemotherapy.
Conclusions:
Total pCR is still the best marker for predicting survival benefit in patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and total pCR is more likely to be achieved in patients with HR-negative disease and a high Ki-67 proliferation index. T stage and N stage may predict apCR and bpCR, respectively.
Human breast milk-derived exosomes attenuate lipopolysaccharide-induced upregulation of CD40 and NLRP3 in microglia
Authors: Akinduro Oluwatomi , Kumar Sanjay , Chen Yuechuan , Thomas Barbara , Hassan Quamarul , Sims Brian
Published: October 2024

Microglia mediate the immune response in the central nervous system to many insults, including lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a bacterial endotoxin that initiates neuroinflammation in the neonatal population, especially preterm infants. The synthesis of the proinflammatory proteins CD40 and NLRP3 depends on the canonical ΝF-κΒ cascade as the genes encoding CD40 and NLRP3 are transcribed by the phosphorylated ΝF-κΒ p50/p65 heterodimer in LPS-induced microglia. Exosomes, which are nanosized vesicles (40–150 nm) involved in intercellular communication, are implicated in many pathophysiological processes. Human breast milk, which is rich in exosomes, plays a vital role in neonatal immune system maturation and adaptation. Activated microglia may cause brain-associated injuries or disorders; therefore, we hypothesize that human breast milk-derived exosomes (HBME) attenuate LPS-induced activation of CD40 and NLRP3 by decreasing p38 MAPK and ΝF-κΒ p50/p65 activation/phosphorylation downstream of TLR4 in murine microglia (BV2). We isolated purified HBME and characterized them using nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy, fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and western blots. Analysis of BV2 microglia exposed to LPS and HBME indicated that HBME modulated the expression of signaling molecules in the canonical ΝF-κΒ pathway, including MyD88, ΙκΒα, p38 MAPK, NF-κB p65, and their products CD40, NLRP3, and cytokines IL-1β and IL-10. Thus, HBME have great potential for attenuating CD40 and the NLPR3 inflammasome signaling in the microglial response to LPS.
Accurate preoperative planning for abdominal aortic aneurysm using fully automated measurement software: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Guo Linlin , Qi Xiaoyu , Yang Ming , Cai Fei , Zhou Peng , Chen Gezheng , Wu Wanying , Zhu Bingjie , Li Qin , Li Yiqing , Yang Chao
Published: October 2024

Sizing, the first step of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), is essential for a successful procedure. This study evaluated the precision and reproducibility of EVAR sizing facilitated by a novel fully automated software, DetecMicro, in comparison to conventional manual and semi-automatic software. A total of 18 surgeons, consisting of 9 junior residents and 9 vascular surgery specialists, participated in a prospective single-center randomized controlled trial with three parallel arms, stratified based on clinical experience. Each surgeon conducted three repeated measurements for 450 parameters (360 diameter and 90 length parameters). Intra- and inter-observer variability were analyzed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Subsequently, the stent size based on the measured results was assessed to determine the impact of measurement errors on stent selection. The reliability of virtual stent implantation (VSI) using DetecMicro was evaluated by comparing it with postoperative models. Compared to PACS and 3mensio, the DetecMicro group exhibited superior accuracy, with 90.39% of diameter measurements and 97.60% of length measurements falling within clinically acceptable ranges, [-2 mm, + 2 mm] and [-5 mm, + 5 mm], respectively. Intra-observer and inter-observer repeatability with DetecMicro demonstrated efficacy, with a mean ICC exceeding 0.9. In the DetecMicro group, clinical experience had a negligible impact on the aforementioned results. VSI, when compared with actual postoperative models, limited errors to within 2 mm. The integration of DetecMicro's measurement and VSI functions holds promise as a reliable tool for preoperative planning in EVAR treatment.
The effects of diagnosis-intervention packet payment on healthcare in Chinese public hospitals: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Tong , Li Chaofan , Wang Xiaoyong , Jia Liying
Published: October 2024

To control the rapid growth of health expenditures, China developed an innovative case-based payment system for inpatient care called the diagnosis-intervention packet (DIP) payment. However, the effectiveness of DIP payment in public hospitals is mixed. This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the effects of DIP-based payment on healthcare in terms of quantity, efficiency, quality, and expenditure of public hospitals in China. We searched PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, EBSCO, ProQuest, Opengrey, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, cqvip, and China Biology Medicine disc from October 2003 to December 2023. Twenty studies were identified and examined, including six non-randomized controlled trials, ten controlled before-after studies, and four interrupted time series studies. The meta-analysis revealed that DIP payment was effective in improving efficiency by shortening the length of stay. There was no significant overall effect on the quantity of healthcare. Based on the results of in-hospital mortality and readmission within 30 days, quality was partially improved. The meta-analysis did not show a significant decrease in total expenditures per case, but there were some positive changes in the structure of hospitalization expenditures. There is insufficient evidence to establish a definitive relationship between DIP-based payment and healthcare in Chinese public hospitals. Future research should explore the long-term effects of the DIP payment reform. Before applying and implementing the DIP-based payment, policymakers need to consider its positive and negative outcomes. This can help policymakers make better decisions on provider payment reform to improve hospital healthcare.
Serv-India Instrument for Measuring Service Quality in Healthcare: Development and Pilot Testing
Authors: Sonali Seep , Shenoy Shweta
Published: October 2024

Aim: The aim of the present study was to develop a viable instrument for measuring service quality (SQ) in the healthcare sector, including a new pool of factors identified that largely influence service quality primarily in the Indian healthcare sector (SERV-INDIA questionnaire).
Methods: An item pool was created by utilizing the SERVQUAL questionnaire as a generic model given by Parasuraman et al. (9) and an expert panel evaluated the items to assess the content validity index and ratio. The reliability, including internal consistency and reproducibility, was examined via Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). In addition, a known-group comparison was performed to evaluate how well the questionnaire discriminates the service quality satisfaction index between patients’ expectations and patients’ perceptions and among individuals who are receiving treatment under cash and insurance both public and private during present hospitalization.
Results: A total of one hundred and three participants were studied for pilot testing. The mean age group of the participants was 30-40 years; almost 50% had studied until high school in the context of formal education. Overall, 7% of the participants were low, 19% were marginal, and 70% had an adequate service quality satisfaction index. The internal consistency, as measured by Cronbach’s alpha, was found to be 0.955 for Part-1 and 0.959 for Part-II of the questionnaire. Participants who took treatment under cash during hospitalization had significantly higher satisfaction scores (P <0.001) than patients with insurance both public and private. The association between service quality satisfaction scores and Sifarish was also significant (P < 0.001).
Conclusion: SERV-INDIA is a valid and reliable measure of service quality in the healthcare sector, with newly introduced significant indicators like Mode of payment including Baksheesh and Sifarish.
Signal Mining and Analysis of Adverse Events in Children Using Growth Hormones: A Real-World Study Based on FAERS
Authors: Xu Wan , Bao Jian-an , Fei Yao
Published: October 2024

Objective:This study aims to analyze the adverse event (ADE)related to the use of growth hormone drugs in children through mining the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database, and provide references for clinical medication safety.
Methods: Data on children under 18 years of agefrom the FAERS database, covering the first quarter of 2004 to the first quarter of 2024, were extracted via the OpenVigil 2.1 tool. The reporting odds ratio (ROR) was employed to analyze adverse event signals related to growth hormones.
Results: A total of 10,487 ADE reports for children using growth hormones were obtained, revealing 381 risk signals across 20 organ systems. The top five system organ categories on the basis of the number of reports were general disorders and administration site conditions (29.82%), investigations (20.11%), musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders (13.51%), nervous system disorders (13.15%), and neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified (6.47%). Among the positive signals not mentioned in the product labeling, the top five included non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased, blood 25-hydroxycholecalciferol decreased, blood urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio increased, globulins decreased, elbow deformity.
Conclusion: The signal intensity associated with muscle, skeletal, and neurological abnormalities, as well as tumor occurrence in children via growth hormones, is relatively high. Continuous monitoring and enhanced medication oversight are necessary.
Epidemiology and spatiotemporal analysis of acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis in Zhejiang province, China, during 2004-2023
Authors: Sun Wanwan , Chen Yijuan , Li Fudong , Qin Shuwen , Miao Ziping
Published: October 2024

Background
Acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis (AHC) has become a significant public health issue in Zhejiang province. However, the analysis of epidemiological characteristics and spatio-temporal aggregation of AHC in Zhejiang province has not been studied yet.
Methods
Information on sporadic cases and clustered epidemics data of AHC from 2004–2023 in Zhejiang province were obtained from the China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention. Global spatial autocorrelation and local spatial autocorrelation analyses were performed using ArcGIS 10.4 software and GeoDa 1.22 software, spatiotemporal hotspot area detection was carried out using SaTScan 10.1.3 software.
Results
Between 2004 and 2023, 52119 AHC cases were reported in Zhejiang province, resulting in an average incidence of 5.37 per 100000. No death cases occurred. The average age of all cases id 25.44 ± 4.37 years old, 16.70% individuals aged between 10–19 years old, August to October was the peak months in each year; students, farmers and kindergarten children were high incidence people. Positive spatial correlation of AHC in Zhejiang province were observed (Moran’I value between 0.075–0.173, P < 0.001), indicating spatial aggregation, mainly in southwest, central-western and eastern coasts counties in Zhejiang province. Spatiotemporal scanning detected one clusterⅠand one cluster Ⅱaggregation areas, with the clusterⅠaggregation area (RR = 212.44, LRR = 53739.20, P < 0.001) locating in northwestern Zhejiang province, comprising 30 counties, and an aggregation time from 1 September 2010 to 30 September 2010. Epidemiological analysis of 3 outbreaks caused by AHC found that the symptoms of the affected students were mainly conjunctival congestion, increased eye secretions, eye swelling, eye pain, photophobia and tearing, and the proportion of fever was relatively low.
Conclusions
Spatial and temporal aggregation of AHC is evident in Zhejiang province, with the incidence rate increased during August to October. It is important to take prevention and control measures such as monitoring, training and health educating in key population in high-incidence epidemic areas.
Clinical characteristics of drug-induced optic neuropathy cases associated with voriconazole administration for chronic pulmonary aspergillosis
Authors: Sato Ryo , Suzuki Junko , Nakayama Kei , Takeda Keita , Kosai Ibuki , Watanabe Masato , Odashima Kyuto , Narumoto Osamu , Shimada Masahiro , Sasaki Yuka , Morio Yoshiteru , Tamura Atsuhisa , Matsui Hirotoshi
Published: October 2024

Background
Visual abnormalities are relatively common side effects of voriconazole use, but optic neuropathy is rare and not well recognized. The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of patients diagnosed with optic neuropathy during voriconazole treatment.
Methods
We reviewed six patients who developed optic neuropathy during voriconazole treatment at our hospital. Visual acuity and critical flicker fusion frequency (CFF) tests were used to diagnose optic neuropathy.
Results
Voriconazole was used to treat chronic pulmonary aspergillosis in all patients. The median time to onset of optic neuropathy was 181 (72–292) days, the dose was 5.87 (5.55–10.36) mg/kg/day, and the trough value was 1.85 (0.59–2.37) µg/ml. One patient was not using any other drugs during voriconazole treatment, but the other five patients used ethambutol concomitantly. The median dose of ethambutol was 13.89 (12.93–15.63) mg/kg/day, which was within the optimal range, and the duration of use was 70 (22–104) months. The participants using ethambutol had been using the drug for a longer period than typically associated with ethambutol-induced optic neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy of the lower extremities was observed in four of six cases, coinciding with the appearance of optic neuropathy.
Conclusions
Voriconazole-associated optic neuropathy may be more likely to occur in cases of concomitant ethambutol treatment or peripheral neuropathy. It is important to be aware of possible optic neuropathy during voriconazole treatment and to perform visual acuity examinations for early detection.