bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Physics-Data Virtual Flow Metering Solution for Production Monitoring in an Offshore Oil Field
Authors: Akhiiartdinov Anvar , Krier Ben , Ibarra Roberto , Srinivasan Vibha , Norris Dan , Xie Lucy
Published: April 2023

A Gulf of Mexico oil field has six subsea producing wells that require production allocation. The wells are not equipped with multiphase flow meters and therefore, an indication of production through a virtual flow meter (VFM) is desired. The complexity is that in this field, well tests are performed as infrequently as semi-annually. The accuracy of the developed VFM is evaluated using well test data held out for validation.

This paper talks about a near real-time cloud-based VFM solution. The approach is based on combining well measurements with fundamental flow equations through the tubing and choke. Well test data is used to calibrate these equations by tuning parameters such as the friction factor and choke flow coefficient. The models are auto-tuned based on the incoming and past well test data. Additionally, the models require a fluid properties table and wellbore deviation survey. When performing predictions, typical real-time measurements such as downhole and well head pressure/temperature and choke position are utilized.

The approach was tested on a well in a nearby field which had more frequent well tests and then extended to the considered field, which had very few calibration data points (~2 well tests/year). The results were validated using left-out well tests and showed mean absolute percentage (MAPE) errors within 10%.

Current industry practice for VFMs is to tune the model using the latest well test and use correction factors to calibrate frictional and gravity terms, which leads to predictions biased towards the latest well test. In addition to addressing these issues, this paper also outlines the auto-tuned near real-time implementation of the system. The utilization of hydrodynamic models as a basis also allow us to extrapolate beyond the range of the calibration dataset with good accuracy.
Decarbonizing FPSO: Lifecycle Assessment of State-of-the-Art Rotating Equipment Solutions
Authors: Basha Khaleel , Intieri Andrea , Mantini Andrea , Ermini Mirco , Del Puglia Stefano
Published: April 2023

The Upstream oil and gas industry is adopting more and more environmentally friendly solutions to achieve the COP 21 goal set in Paris in 2015 (i.e., no more than 1.5°C of global temperature rise versus the pre-industrial levels). As such, when selecting a technology on a project, operators started acknowledging the need to adopt not only economic solutions but also low carbon ones. Some technologies today can already give an answer to the decarbonization challenge. In Offshore deep waters, which is an area keener to innovate and where many future field developments would happen, rotating equipment can play a huge role when looking at power generation and compression for Floating, Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO).

Traditionally, Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) are used for Offshore due to their simplicity of operation, large references, and low weight/compact footprint. A big portion of the energy used on a FPSO is driven by associated gas; this gas is either burnt on GTs for power generation and mechanical drive or compressed for processing/export/re-injection purposes. Power generation alone represents the source of more than 60% of the carbon emissions of a latest generation FPSO.

Adopting larger and more efficient Gas Turbines, thus increasing topside power density, and reducing footprint, is one option that can already provide some economic as well as environmental benefits. Recently, electric motor driven compressors are also being increasingly selected to eliminate the need for GT driven compressors (GTC) thus lowering related emissions and enabling the aforementioned power density. When the two previous technologies are coupled with Combined Cycle Gas Turbines (CCGT), a third step in efficiency increase is obtained, while also bringing the utmost advantages of reducing lifecycle costs under certain conditions.

This work presents a comparison of "conventional" rotating equipment solutions, employed on a typical large-size FPSO project, versus the introduction of the below solutions: All Electric compressionLarge size Gas Turbines for power generationCombined Cycle

A lifecycle cost analysis model has been developed to analyze these alternatives, including a sensitivity assessment around carbon prices and fuel gas costs. The different architectures have been compared based on carbon intensity and total lifecycle cost (CAPEX plus OPEX). Results showed that the three proposed technologies can help achieve >20% in carbon intensity reduction and >10% in overall cost savings when compared to the conventional solutions.
Hybrid Approach Using Physical Insights and Data Science for Early Stuck Detection
Authors: Kaneko Tatsuya , Inoue Tomoya , Nakagawa Yujin , Wada Ryota , Miyoshi Keisuke , Abe Shungo , Kuroda Kouhei , Fujita Kazuhiro
Published: April 2023

Detection of early signs of stuck pipe incidents is crucial because of the enormous costs of recovering from the incidents. Previous studies have leaned significantly toward a physics-based or data-science approach. However, both approaches have challenges, such as the uncertainty of the physics-based model and the lack of data in the data-science approach. This study proposes a hybrid approach using physical insights and data science and discusses the possibility of early detection of stuck pipes.

The proposed method comprises two steps. In the first step, a data-driven model with physical insights is trained using the historical data of the in situ well to estimate some of the drilling variables. In the second step, the risk of stuck pipe occurrence (hereafter referred to as stuck risk) is calculated based on the historical and current measured data and the estimation of the trained model. This approach is expected to overcome the limitations of the previous methods as it allows the construction of a detection model tuned to the in situ well. In the case studies, models for estimating the top drive torque and standpipe pressure were constructed. The performance of the models is discussed using actual drilling data from drilling fields, including 21 stuck incidents during drilling operations.

The proposed method was first examined using short-term output. The output confirmed that the stuck risk increased shortly before the stuck incident occurred in 15 cases. This increase in stuck risk was consistent with physical considerations. Subsequently, this study examined the long-term output over several months; this was rarely done in previous studies. Few false positives were observed in several cases even within this long-term output. Additionally, several model improvements were found to have the potential to further improve its performance.

The novelty of our research lies in creating a broad framework for the early sign detection of stuck pipes by using both physical insights and data science methods. The proposed hybrid approach demonstrated the potential to reduce false alarms and improve interpretability compared to previous methods. The framework is highly extensible, and further performance improvements can be expected in the future.
Developing an ESG Strategy and Roadmap: An Integrated Perspective in an O&G Company
Authors: Bandeira Gabriel Lucas , Trindade Duarte Nuno Pereira , Gardi Laureano Henrique , Sodario Monique , Simioni Camila Gabriela
Published: April 2023

Efforts have been made globally to reduce companies' impacts on the planet, people, and communities, which leads industries to rethink how to produce and manage their workforce. But some challenges and barriers keep businesses from embracing sustainable actions to drive change. One of them is to create healthy ESG planning.

This research aimed to create a sustainability roadmap based on the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies in a Norwegian O&G company. The programs were segregated into three pillars based on the triple bottom line and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From this strategy's construction, ten key workstreams (WS) were developed and sponsored by a Steering Committee.

The Environmental dimension [E] is related to the Energy Management & CO2 Emissions program, in which the company is committed to the challenges of climate change by reducing CO2 emissions and environmental impacts of its operations. Also, in the Waste Management program, the company is committed to reducing waste generation from its operations and promoting a circular economy approach. In the Low Carbon Solutions program, the company contributes to the decarbonization of global O&G production.

For the Social dimension [S], in the Health & Safety program, the strategy corresponds to creating a world-class performance organization, strengthening business competitiveness, and achieving the zero-incident vision. In the Talent Attraction & Retention program, it is believed that people are the key to creating a successful business. In the Diversity & Equality program, the company is strongly committed to the principles of non-discriminatory practices and equal opportunities, and in the Social Responsibility program, it positively impacts the development of local communities through education.

Finally, for the Governance dimension [G] are presented the Responsible Business Conduct program promoting zero tolerance for corruption, also the Compliance Obligation for HSE program to respect and comply with HSE laws and regulations. And contemplating the three dimensions in the Responsible Supply Chain program, suppliers were selected with high environmental, anti-corruption, and human rights standards.

Based on the study results, recommendations are made to ensure that an ESG strategy and roadmap are effectively accommodated to ensure optimal cohesion amongst the O&G industry and the integration of their strengths that will positively impact the entire value chain and optimize the realization of organizational goals.
Prediction of Loop Current and Eddy Regimes in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Steele Edward , Jaramillo Sergio , Neal Robert , Storie Jill , Zhang Xiaoqian
Published: April 2023

Accurate prediction of the frontal position and intensity of the Loop Current and associated Loop Current Eddies (LC/LCEs) in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) is notoriously difficult, adversely impacting offshore planning and workability. Here, we review operational forecasting practices and propose a new, unifying, approach for the holistic analysis of oceanographic data, exploring the potential for establishing a new general-purpose set of GoM regimes for the objective classification of its ‘state’ into 1 of 40 discrete regime definitions, as generated through clustering of sea surface height fields obtained from reanalysis data for the period from 1994 to 2015. Drawing inspiration from present methods for the prediction of anticipated LC/LCE impacts, the approach delivers an automatic identification tool to complement operational decision-making, leveraging over 20 years of potential historical analogues to inform impact assessment. Furthermore, it is readily applicable to observational (e.g. satellite) and modelling (e.g. analysis/forecast) fields alike – making expansion to other equivalent spatial datasets simple – and capable of both simplifying the interpretation of dynamical forecasts and seeding the generation of statistical forecasts; opening the potential for a combined, hybrid, approach comprising multiple complementary data sources to be derived in the future. Although still at an early stage of refinement, this is deemed to be a highly important original contribution for operators seeking to improve the efficiency of their planning workflow when forecasting workability in the region.
Simulations and Experimental Results for a High-Power Laser Tool to Dissociate Hydrate on Oil and Gas Production Equipment in Deep Water
Authors: Parra Dario Prada , Greco de Sousa Bruno , de Faria Giancarlo V. , Gouvea Paula M. P. , Moura Luiz F. N. , Temporão Guilherme P. , Gonçalves Rulliane T. , Sola Aldo B. , Medeiros Khrissy A. R. , Panta Pedro E. G. , Ribeiro Mario L. P. , Ribeiro Natalia , Braga Arthur M. B.
Published: April 2023

The formation of gas hydrates on oil and gas production equipment in deep water can hinder subsea operations, often requiring removal by using expensive and time-consuming methods that can damage the equipment. This paper discusses simulations and experimental tests to evaluate a lower-cost, safer, and more efficient tool under development to remove the hydrates by dissociation through radiation from a high-power laser installed on a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV).

The laser source used in the first phase was a blue (445 nm) diode laser of 730 W, while an 1800 W source is currently used for the second phase. Depending on the scenario and material, the laser beam can either irradiate the hydrate formation to heat it and achieve the necessary temperature for dissociation, or it can be aimed at equipment adjacent to the formation, with laser beam spot size and power enough to transmit the necessary heat to the hydrate, without damaging the equipment. Simulations and experimental tests to optimize the parameters were performed to ensure that the required temperatures are reached.

Metal samples and materials similar to hydrates were used in simulations and lab tests in air and in water, and under various laser parameters, demonstrating that heating from deep ocean water temperatures found near subsea equipment (4°C or slightly higher, depending on the depth) up to hydrate dissociation temperatures (17°C–26°C) can be attained with the proposed tool. Additionally, the comparison between the simulations and the experimental results showed good agreement. This paper focuses on the experimental and simulated results obtained with a steel disk and on experimental results for a metal tube, discussing how the ability to reach the temperatures required for dissociation is affected by the water temperature and flow, how far the radiation propagates in water before reaching the target, the temperature distribution on the target, and the irradiation time.

Simulations and experimental results obtained with a high-power-laser tool for deep-water dissociation of hydrates are discussed. The lab tests provided reliability and adjustments for the simulations, in addition to performance estimates for the prototype. The tool is a safer and lower-cost method to dissociate hydrates interfering with the operation of oil and gas production equipment in deep water.
Developing a Digital Twin for Offshore Wells using Physics-Rooted Models
Authors: Sindi Wisam
Published: April 2023

Accurate understanding of the physics of the wellbore and knowledge of production rates are essential as they serve as a key input to modelling and therefore affect results and the decisions made based on those.

This paper presents a methodology to create a physical representation of the wellbore and to compute production rates from monitoring parameters utilizing physics-rooted models.

When connected to real-time measurements, the process enables continuous production surveillance and integration into a digital oilfield solution.

The approach is validated against data from literature and a real North Sea offshore field.

This work consists of an integrated methodology using a mechanistic approach to replicate the physics of the wellbore.

The process utilizes transient heat transfer calculation between a deviated wellbore and formation.

Black oil models are used to determine the properties of the produced fluids, which may comprise mixtures of gas/oil/water.

Basic fluid properties and static information including wellbore design are required for the initial model setup.

The dynamic input comprises choke downstream pressure, choke valve setting, pressure and temperature at wellhead and downhole. Dynamic data may come from either SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) for near real-time calculation, or manual readings.

The methodology is validated with two quality data points from various fields used by other authors such as (Hasan & Kabir, Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer in Wellbores, 2002), including an onshore and an offshore well.

Moreover, the process is also tested against the publicly available historical dataset of the Norwegian offshore field Volve, which was in production from 2008 to 2016. This allows simulation of daily production rates throughout entire well life cycles.

The simulation of the real field cases achieves an average error MAPE (mean absolute percentage error) of 11.75 % for the liquid rate.

The novelty of this approach is the ability to run a digital twin of a wellbore based on data that is already acquired as part of standard well monitoring operations.

Using the process as a VFM (virtual flow meter) can increase accuracy of production allocation and quality control (QC) physical MPFM (multiphase flowmeter).

Having such a model-based approach offers significant potential for cost savings, for instance reducing OPEX (operating expenditure) by stretching physical metering cycles and lowering CAPEX (capital expenditures) by saving metering infrastructure.
Editorial Vol 47, No 2 (2000)
Authors: Jordaan Heila , Penn Claire
Published: April 2023

No abstract available.
Neurolinguistic Aspects of Bilingual Thalamic Aphasia. A Clinical Case
Authors: Fabbro F. , Vorano L. , Filiputti D. , De Luca G.
Published: April 2023

The case of a right-handed young male (R.P.) with English as Ll and Italian as L2 is reported. At the age of 28 he suffered a stroke which brought about an ischemic lesion to the left thalamus and the splenium. R.P. presented with mutism, reduced strength and right-sided paralysis. The patient slowly recovered language but exhibited bilingual aphasia. After the stroke his IQ was in the normal range. His verbal short-term memory span for disyllabic words was reduced. His verbal long-term memory was greatly impaired and he was severely disoriented in time and space. R.P. showed poor verbal initiative, and in both languages he had severe word-finding difficulties, made many repetitions, some phonemic paraphasias and omissions of bound grammar morphemes. On the Bilingual Aphasia Test the most severely compromised linguistic levels were morphology, semantics and syntax. Furthermore, the patient showed considerable difficulty to translate sentences in both directions.This case seems to confirm that language functions are represented in the left subcortical structures (thalamus). As R.P. showed parallel recovery of Ll and L2, it may be suggested that the two languages are equally and similarly represented in the left thalamus.
Language in the Classroom: Comparisons of Four Bilingual Environments
Authors: Brice Alejandro , Brice Roanne
Published: April 2023

Enrolment of students from varying cultural and linguistic backgrounds has increased significantly over the last few years in the United States. One can therefore assume that the changing demographics also indicates the diverse home language and culture of students entering U. S. schools today. These students exhibit various levels of functioning within the context of the U.S. school culture; specifically, they are acculturating to the school culture and also learning English. Language proficiency and academic success are dependent upon the degree to which the teachers and speech-language pathologists are capable of meeting the learning needs of students in the classroom. Teachers and speech-language pathologists may be unaware of their teaching and therapy practices, particularly their use of language. The purpose of this article is to review three studies across four environments investigating teacher and therapist language involving bilingual students.
Segmental Phonology and Black South Mrican English Speakers: Communicative Success with Standard Dialect Listeners
Authors: Pascoe Michelle , Tuomi Seppo
Published: April 2023

The study investigated the nature of the listener confusion that occurs when Black South African English (BSAE) speakers communicated a list of common English words to speakers of Standard South African (StdSAE) English. Specific difficulties with vowels, diphthongs and consonants are discussed in terms of their effect on intelligibility. It is suggested that all segmental features of BSAE relate to two distinct levels: a functional (meaning) level and an aesthetic level. This study focused on the functional level, and aimed to describe the segmental features of BSAE speech that affect meaning. Such a distinction has particular relevance for speech and language therapists who need to have a clear rationale for their work with BSAE-speaking clients. Treatment of speech problems due to first language transfer, is discussed in terms of this emerging client group within South Africa, and more generally.
Analysis of language factors in a multilingual stutterer
Authors: Watt Nola
Published: April 2023

The apparently predictable occurrence of stuttering in English-speaking stutterers has been well documented and has revealed a number of rules regarding stuttering loci known as the language factors. This study investigated the presence of these language factors (the phonetic, grammatic, word and sentence locus, word length and syllabic stress factors) in the spontaneous speech of a multilingual stutterer: The subject (B) was a 19-year old male with a severe stutter who spoke four languages, structurally divisible into two main groups: English and French (largely analytical word based languages), and Swahili and Kinyarwanda (African languages with rich morphology). Results confirmed the presence of the phonetic and word locus factors in English and French but this was not observed in the African languages, indicating distinct structural variation between languages. The grammatic factor was the only factor significant across all four languages, while the sentence position factor was not significant in any language. The word length factor was significant for all languages except Swahili, perhaps confounded by the over-representation of long words in this language. Syllabic stress was significant in both English and Swahili indicating a strong robustness of this factor across both a stress-timed and syllable-timed language.
Management of community-acquired urinary tract infection in a tertiary care setting: A prospective study
Authors: M. Madhu Bashini , S. Jeevitha , G. Balajee , Vijaya Srinivasan
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives: Carbapenems and beta-lactam-beta-lactamase inhibitors are empirical drugs of choice in the treatment of urinary tract infection. (UTI); however, de-escalation of therapy is necessary to ensure compliance. Objectives: The objective is to study the impact of antibiotic susceptibility report on the management of community-acquired UTI. Materials and Methods: Patients were classified prospectively as uncomplicated UTI (UC-UTI) and complicated UTI (C-UTI), and symptoms, microbiology, antibiotic susceptibility pattern, and treatment modification following culture report were analyzed. Extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) prevalence in patients was compared among naive and those who received empirical treatment before presentation. Patients with a history of recurrent UTI were given prophylaxis and all were followed up for 1 month. SPSS version 20 package was used for statistical analysis. Results: Nearly 75% of the study population had C-UTI. Around 70% of C-UTI and 50% of UC-UTI had ESBL-producing Gram-negative enterobacteriace. In UC-UTI, failed empirical treatment before presentation at our center was significantly associated with positive ESBL producer status. Sensitivity to amikacin and carbapenems was over. 90%; nitrofurantoin and piperacillin-tazobactam followed at around 70%. Following culture report, a significant number of C-UTI were de-escalated to oral regimens. Conclusions: Despite the high prevalence of ESBL-producing pathogens in community.acquired UTI, once systemic signs of sepsis are controlled, de-escalation is possible in the majority of patients.
Liposuction, the epoch procedure
Authors: Chylińska Natalia , Dorf Natalia , Wołosik Katarzyna , Przylipiak Andrzej
Published: April 2023

Liposuction is considered to be one of the most popular surgical procedures in the world. It consists of removing subcutaneous fat from specific parts of the body using a medical pump that creates negative pressure and a special thin cannula inserted into the fat tissue. Nowadays, it is a relatively safe procedure, but it was not always this way. Improving liposuction methods, their effectiveness, and reducing the risk of posttreatment complications are the result of aquired experience and knowledge based on practical activities over the years. The aim of this paper is to present the history of liposuction, the diversity of treatment techniques, and their modifications over the years.
Evaluation of clinicoepidemiological features of pediatric dermatoses in Egyptian children
Authors: Aboeldahab Soha , Mohammed Sarah El-Sayed , El-Hamd Mohammed Abu , Saleh Ramadan
Published: April 2023

Background

Epidemiological studies determine the burden of skin diseases, especially in children, which is required for proper health-care planning.

Objectives

To evaluate the clinicoepidemiologic features of skin diseases among Egyptian children.

Patients and methods

This was a cross-sectional, community-based study that included 2594 children of both sexes with ages that ranged from birth to less than 18 years. This study included government schools, private schools, and maternity and childhood care centers in Sohag Governorate, Upper Egypt. Sociodemographic data, the general examination included body parameters, and dermatological examination of children were documented.

Results

Skin diseases were detected in 25.1% (651/2594) of the examined children. Allergic skin diseases were the most common detected, one in 32.4% of children followed by sebaceous gland disorders (acne vulgaris) in 30.7% and then infectious skin diseases in 24.85%. Head was affected in the majority of patients (54.8%). The median age of children with skin diseases was 11 (1–18) years. Females constituted 66% of children with skin diseases. Children with skin diseases from rural areas constituted 63.1%. The median age of children with an infectious skin disease was 8 (2–14) years. Female sex, rural residence, and parents of low educational levels were associated with higher percentages of infectious skin diseases in children.

Conclusion

This study concluded that the most common detected pediatric skin diseases were allergic skin disorders, sebaceous gland disorders, and infectious skin diseases, respectively.

Socioeconomic status, environmental factors, and medical resources are the most important factors affecting the prevalence of skin diseases.
Association between inducible nitric oxide synthase-954-G>C and Ex16+14-C>T gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Hamed Ahmed M. , Naji Sura M. , Youssef Mayada E. , Nasr Hend E. , Shams Ghada M.
Published: April 2023

Background

Psoriasis is a prevalent disorder of primarily skin and joint affection with a well-known genetic background and a sophisticated pathogenesis. The inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) gene polymorphisms are unexplored areas of research when it comes to psoriasis.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate the probable link between iNOS gene polymorphisms (-954 G/C and Ex 16+14C/T) and susceptibility to psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Patients and methods

We included three groups of participants: 100 participants each of psoriasis, PsA and healthy controls. Genetic polymorphism analysis was performed utilizing the PCR with the restriction fragment length polymorphism method.

Results

Genetic analysis of iNOS polymorphism at Ex 16+14C/T revealed significantly increased CT genotype frequency and significantly lower CC genotype frequency in psoriasis (P=0.0011, 0.003, respectively) and PsA patients (P=0.001, P<0.0001, respectively) in comparison to controls. Genetic analysis of iNOS polymorphism at −954 G/C revealed insignificant difference in genotype distribution between psoriasis patients and controls, whereas significantly increased GC genotype frequency (P=0.038) and significantly decreased GG genotype frequency (P=0.038) were detected in PsA patients versus healthy controls.

Conclusions

iNOS polymorphism at Ex 16+14C/T, particularly the CT genotype, is associated with psoriasis in Egyptians, whereas PsA is associated with polymorphism at Ex 16+14 and −954G/C.
Treatment of Tibial Hemimelia Jones Type 4 by Ankle-Sparing Reconstruction (From Birth to Skeletal Maturity)
Authors: Eidelman Mark , Kotlarsky Pavel
Published: April 2023

Tibial hemimelia is a relatively rare congenital preaxial longitudinal deficiency. The focus of this report is on Jones Type 4 (also called ankle diastasis). Treatment options range from amputation to tibiotalar arthrodesis with subsequent lengthening procedures. We present a case report of a patient with tibial hemimelia Jones Type 4 treated by ankle-sparing reconstruction with serial tibial- and fibular-lengthening procedures. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of ankle-sparing reconstruction followed until maturity.
Patient Perspectives in the Choice of Management of Leg Length Discrepancy
Authors: Iobst Christopher A. , Bafor Anirejuoritse
Published: April 2023

Background:

The traditional limb length discrepancy management algorithm dictates that patients with less than 5 centimeters (cm) of leg length discrepancy should not be offered lengthening surgery as a treatment option. With the development of intramedullary lengthening nails, the procedure for limb lengthening has become more patient friendly and reliable. This study investigated current patient preferences for management when faced with a projected final length discrepancy of less than 5 cm.

Materials and Methods:

Following IRB approval, a retrospective chart review of a single surgeon's experience with patients presenting with clinical and radiological evidence of limb length discrepancy between 2017 and 2020 was performed. Patients were excluded from the study if the final discrepancy or projected discrepancy was more than 5 cm. The same management options for the LLD were presented to each patient and their family: 1) Observation, 2) Shoe lift, 3) Epiphysiodesis/Acute shortening of the longer limb, 4) Limb lengthening of the shorter limb.

Results:

Sixty-two (62) patients met the inclusion criteria. This was comprised of 45 skeletally immature patients and 17 skeletally mature patients. Forty-four (44) patients (71% of the entire group) preferred to have the shorter limb lengthened. This represents 27 (60%) of the skeletally immature patients and all 17 (100%) of the skeletally mature patients. No patients chose acute shortening or a shoe lift as definitive management.

Conclusion:

With 71% of patients opting for a lengthening procedure, this study demonstrates that patients prefer limb lengthening over limb shortening for discrepancies less than 5 cm. With improvements in the knowledge and techniques of limb lengthening as well as better patient experience particularly with the intramedullary lengthening nails, surgeons should not feel obligated to only offer lengthening to patients with LLD > 5 cm.
Conventional to Minimally Invasive Root Coverage Procedures
Authors: Kalaivani Gunalan
Published: April 2023

In dentistry, various root coverage procedures (RCPs) are practising to treat gingival recession, still achieving complete root coverage (CRC) is more challenging. It even scales from conventional to advanced surgical RCP. The most important factor in achieving CRC is a proper presurgical evaluation by assessing the dimension of hard and soft tissues. Following the miller classification system, it helps to guide and predict successful RCP. Despite this, many dentists have struggled to implement RCP in their daily work. This article explains an evidence-based literature review to decide their actual outcomes, to address differing opinions and make informed choices before using various RCP. This will make a clinician choose the ideal RCP (either conventional or minimally invasive procedures) for the case at hand. To ensure that the expertise was accurate, an online search was conducted on the PubMed/Medline site. This included articles published between 2000 and 2019, all of which are related to positive results and the success rate of various RCP. A total of 796 articles of these were related to the RCP. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to select relevant papers. This review article aims to highlight the fact that RCP is believed to produce successful results. Advanced treatment mode of RCP aids in achieving a higher degree of performance than conventional RCP. For localized and generalized defects, subepithelial connective tissue graft, coronally advanced flap (CAF), and CAF + connective tissue graft are considered a more predictable option. However, there are several drawbacks to this RCP that must be found and addressed.
COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among kidney transplant recipients in Singapore
Authors: Liew Ian Tatt , Kadir Hanis Abdul , Thangaraju Sobhana , Ho Quan Yao , Ng Eleanor , Foo Fiona , Kee Terence
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

A successful vaccination programme forms the cornerstone of controlling coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The unprecedented speed of COVID-19 vaccine development and lack of long-term data have raised fears regarding its safety and efficacy. Vaccine hesitancy can undermine the uptake, and hence success of the vaccination programme. Given the high complication rates of COVID-19 infections in kidney transplant recipients, it is particularly important to identify and address vaccine hesitancy in this population.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional survey among kidney transplant recipients attending transplant clinic between 5 April and 5 May 2021. The survey assessed attitudes towards COVID-19, willingness/hesitancy towards COVID-19 vaccination, vaccination concerns and prompts to vaccination. This was scored on a Likert scale with scores ranging from ‘strongly disagree’ – 1 point to ‘strongly agree’ – 5 points.

Results:

One hundred and one completed responses were captured. Of these, 86% respondents reported to agree or strongly agree to vaccination. This was despite significant concerns of allograft rejection (mean score 4.12, standard deviation [SD] 0.97) and decreased immunosuppressant efficacy (mean score 4.14, SD 0.96) with vaccination. Multivariable model showed a positive association with transplant vintage of ≥ 5 years (median 2.41), lower educational levels of secondary school or less (median 5.82) and healthcare provider advocacy (median 1.88) in predicting vaccine acceptance.

Conclusions:

Vaccine acceptance rate was high among kidney transplant recipients. Vaccine hesitancy remains a concern in those with a transplant vintage of less than 5 years and those with tertiary educational level. Healthcare provider advocacy is important in improving vaccine acceptance rates.
Del libro y sus formas el ordenador y las nuevas modalidades de lectura
Authors: Espejo-Cala Carmen
Published: April 2023

La autora analiza la irrupción de las nuevas tecnologías en la producción de libros y la incidencia de estos procedimientos en los lectores, deteniéndose con detalle en soportes como el cdrom.
Pensar la ciudad como espacio educativo para los medios
Authors: Benavides Campos Julio Eduardo
Published: April 2023

Dibujar un mapa que permita ubicar una relación entre comunicación y educación, de tal manera que se pueda abandonar una visión estrictamente instrumental para tocar nuevos ámbitos, requiere de una re-creación, de miradas que trasciendan los esquemas tradicionales de comprensión. Pensar la ciudad como espacio educativo de los medios es el reto que se plantea el presente texto.
Los consumos de medios de comunicación en los mayores de 50 años: entre el asombro y la nostalgia
Authors: Loyola María Inés , Morales Susana , Vidal Elizabeth
Published: April 2023

Este informe es parte de una investigación realizada durante el año 1997, a partir del análisis de entrevistas a personas mayores de 50 años para conocer sus modalidades de recepción de medios de comunicación en Córdoba.

Como punto relevante del análisis, pudimos señalar el gran asombro que provocaba en los entrevistados la aparición de los cambios tecnológicos que impactaron particularmente en profundas transformaciones en los proceso de producción, circulación y consumo de medios. Este asombro ante lo novedoso no se observa en la sociedad actual, en todo caso lo asombroso es la ¿naturalidad¿ conque se asiste a los más revolucionarios inventos, tal vez porque justamente lo que caracteriza a la sociedad argentina (y mundial) de las últimas décadas es la globalización y la importancia capital de los medios masivos de comunicación en la constitución de ese escenario. A medida que se internan en sus recuerdos, la nostalgia aparece en los entrevistados, por la pérdida de los encuentros familiares alrededor de los medios.
Las formas de expresión en el periodismo actual
Authors: Moreno Espinosa Pastora
Published: April 2023

El lenguaje periodístico está formado por un conjunto de discursos que tienen estructuras lógicas y gramaticales distintas, no es un tipo de discurso homogéneo en su estructura. No obstante, todas estas formas específicas del discurso implican el conocimiento por el periodista de que los receptores son personas concretas que viven en un tiempo determinado con sus circunstancias sociales, políticas, culturales, etc. adyacentes.

La distinción de las formas del discurso nos permitirá establecer un sistema de análisis que contribuirá a conocer mejor el propósito general de los mensajes y determinar el modo más conveniente de redactarlos.
La voz de los espectros Imagen y política en la Argentina de fin de siglo
Authors: Alem Beatriz
Published: April 2023

El presente trabajo intenta dar cuenta de ciertas imágenes políticas que aparecen en el escenario público, a partir de la relación de presencia/ausencia; y que marcan en principio una particularidad, la de no ser hechos actuales; sin embargo, siempre vuelven, y se instalan generando diversas y antagónicas reacciones, que van desde la adhesión al rechazo.

En este recorrido intentaremos explicar esta modalidad, a partir de ciertas imágenes de la política argentina. Para ello vamos a citar dos ejemplos: la imagen de Eva Perón y la imagen de los desaparecidos en la última dictadura militar de 1976.

Comenzaremos por describir el origen de las imagos, ya que las mismas tenían por función inmortalizar el poder. Y esta categoría de inmortal era posible a partir de la consagración de los cuerpos.

Las imágenes que aquí proponemos aparecen de modo diferente, podemos inferir que la imagen de Eva Perón se constituye en el modo que tienen las imágenes religiosas que unen a la comunidad de creyentes y mantienen con su imagen una relación que trasciende la devoción para instalarla en el plano milagroso. En tanto que la imagen de los desaparecidos vuelven de un modo fantasmagórico, al modo que vuelven los fantasmas reclamando justicia.

Concluiremos que entender el significado de estas imágenes, desde lo espectral y desde lo siniestro que ellas contienen, es sacarlas de la simple idea alucinógena que pueden resultarnos; fundamentalmente porque el escenario de la política argentina sigue recibiendo el mensaje de los fantasmas, que sectores del poder se niegan a escuchar, por se justamente un reclamo que cuestiona el "orden" establecido.
Isolation and Characterization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Phages with a Broad Host Spectrum from Hospital Sewage Systems and Their Therapeutic Effect in a Mouse Model
Authors: Dai Fangfang , Yang Gengxia , Lou Jinli , Zhao Xiuying , Chen Ming , Sun Guizhen , Yu Yanhua
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to isolate and characterize phages as an alternative treatment of multidrug- or pan-drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Phage titers and bacterial densities correlated, with the phages disappearing after bacteria were eliminated. We isolated phages in filtered sewage water by a double-layered agar spot test. Fifty-eight P. aeruginosa strains were used to screen the host spectrum of the 14 phages isolated. Random amplification of polymorphic DNA-typing polymerase chain reaction was used to analyze the genomic homologies of the 58 host bacteria strains and four phages with a broad host spectrum. Transmission electron microscopy was used to observe the morphology of the four phages with a broad host spectrum. Mice with intraabdominal P. aeruginosa infection were used as an in vivo animal model to investigate the therapeutic effect of the selected phage. Four virulent phages with a broad host spectrum specific to P. aeruginosa strains were isolated. They were all double-stranded DNA viruses and belonged to four different genotypes. The test curve showed that phage I had the highest adsorption rate, the shortest latent period, and the largest burst size. The infected mouse model indicated that small doses of phage I could prevent the death of infected mice. Phage titers and bacterial densities correlated, with phages disappearing after bacteria were eliminated. Phage I was the most effective and promising treatment of drug-resistant P. aeruginosa.
House Condition Scoring Scale as a Risk Indicator of Infestation by Aedes in Two Mexican Localities
Authors: Monroy-Díaz Ángela Liliana , Ramos-Castañeda José , Amaya-Larios Irma Yvonne , Diaz-Quijano Fredi Alexander , Martínez-Vega Ruth Aralí
Published: April 2023

Mexico has shown an increase in dengue incidence rates. There are factors related to the location that determine housing infestation by Aedes. This study aimed to determine factors associated with housing infestation by immature forms of Aedes spp. in the dengue endemic localities of Axochiapan and Tepalcingo, Mexico, from 2014 to 2016. A cohort study was carried out. Surveys and inspections of front- and backyards were conducted every 6 months, looking for immature forms of Aedes spp. A house condition scoring scale was developed using three variables (house maintenance, tidiness of the front- and backyards, and shading of the front- and backyards). Multiple and multilevel regression logistic analysis were conducted considering the housing infestation as the outcome and the household characteristics observed 6 months before the outcome as factors; this was adjusted by time (seasonal and cyclical variations of the vector). The infestation oscillated between 5.8% of the houses in the second semester of 2015 and 29.3% in the second semester of 2016. The factors directly associated with housing infestation by Aedes were the house condition score (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.40–1.91) and the previous record of housing infestation (aOR: 2.99; 95% CI: 2.00–4.48). Moreover, the breeding-site elimination done by house residents reduced the housing infestation odds by 81% (95% CI: 25–95%). These factors were independent of the seasonal and cyclical variations of the vector. In conclusion, our findings could help to focalize antivectorial interventions in dengue-endemic regions with similar demographic and socioeconomic characteristics.
Duration of Symptoms Prior to Pediatric and Adolescent Tuberculosis Diagnosis and Its Impact on Schooling in Tanzania: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Ilaiwy Ghassan , Lukumay Saning’o , Augustino Domitila , Mejan Paulo , Bukhay Rehema , Justine Museveni , Massong Cornel , Rao Prakruti , Petros de Guex Kristen , Pfaeffle Herman , Mduma Estomih , Vinnard Christopher , Xie Yingda L. , Heysell Scott K. , Thomas Tania A.
Published: April 2023

At least a third of tuberculosis (TB) cases remain undiagnosed, disproportionately so in children and adolescents, which is hampering global elimination goals. Prolonged symptom duration presents a high-risk scenario for childhood TB in endemic areas, but the prolonged period of symptoms and its impact on educational attainment are rarely documented. Using a mixed method approach, we aimed to quantify the duration of respiratory symptoms and describe their impact on education among children from a rural area of Tanzania. We used data from a prospectively enrolled cohort of children and adolescents aged 4–17 years in rural Tanzania at the start of active TB treatment. We report on the cohort’s baseline characteristics and explore the correlation between duration of symptoms and other variables. In-depth qualitative interviews were designed on the basis of a grounded theory approach to explore the impact of TB on educational attainment among school-aged children. In this cohort, children and adolescents diagnosed with TB experienced symptoms for a median of 85 days (interquartile range: 30, 231 days) prior to treatment initiation. In addition, 56 participants (65%) had a TB exposure in the household. Of the 16 families with school-aged children who were interviewed, 15 (94%) reported a significant negative impact of TB on the schooling of their children. Children in this cohort experienced a long duration of TB symptoms; the extent of illness impacted absenteeism at school. Screening initiatives for households affected by TB may lead to a shortened duration of symptoms and may minimize the impact on school attendance.
An integral approach for complete migration from a relational database to MongoDB
Authors: Erraji Abdelhak , Maizate Abderrahim , Ouzzif Mohamed
Published: April 2023

Today, computing has become an obligation in the lives of individuals and institutions alike. This magical sector uses and develops very rich, important, and sensitive tools and solutions, which make everyone's life easier. Computers with their tools have become indispensable and they have transformed the world into a small town. These tools revolve around data, the type, nature, and size of which continually increases up to zeta bytes of storage capacity, thus creating BigData. Considering that Relational databases present difficulties in the management of BigData, and Knowing that companies want to keep their data accumulated over decades of exercises and studies on the market, and also taking into account the cost impact if they kept both systems in terms of software, technical support and user training; therefore it is legitimate to find a reliable way to migrate their data from the relational system to a NoSQL system, which designed specifically to handle BigData. In this optic, several studies and approaches have been developed, but they present a lack or weaknesses in the treatment of the main components of the database, which we are going to deal with in our new and integrated approach to migration from the relational database system to MongoDB as a NoSQL system. In this article, we will present our contribution by developing a complete concept of our approach, starting with an introduction, which will be followed by a discussion of what other researchers have done in this direction, then we move on to a phase of analysis and modeling to develop the models and meta-models of the two systems: source and destination, also during this section we also present our analysis and modeling methodology, to present our global approach which divides its treatment into three axes, each of which processes a part of the RDBMS with a particular nature of data: data stored in tables, data carried on the structure of the RDBMS and data coming from the semantics of relational databases. The overall architecture of our approach, which we named ''TMSDRDND'', is formed by two layers: ''TSRSNLayer'' which deals with the transformation of the structure and the transfer of semantic data, and the ''MDRSNLayer'' layer, Which takes care of data migration using an ETL to be developed according to a specific concept and architecture and exploiting the results of the first layer.