bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficiency of High-Resolution MRI at Different Stages of Subchondral Insufficiency Fracture of the Knee
Authors: Ivankov Akeksandr , Seliverstov Pavel
Published: March 2022

The history of subchondral insufficiency fracture is closely related to a pre-existing diagnosis of spontaneous osteonecrosis of the knee (SONK). Previously, it was thought that subchondral linear or lunate pathological changes on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans in elderly patients with a history of osteoporosis are the result of spontaneous osteonecrosis, but in the 2000s, studies by T. Yamamoto showed that a small proportion of patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head initially have a fracture of insufficiency that gets complicated by secondary osteonecrosis. Subsequent studies of SONK also showed that the subchondral insufficiency fracture is precisely the initial process, osteonecrosis is secondary and it is a complication of the fracture. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of high-resolution MRI at different stages of this disease.
Thermodynamic analysis of casting titanium alloys is the basis of information support in the optimal foundry technology development
Authors: Rad T. A. , Iksanov M. V. , Golod V. M. , Malinkina Yu. Yu.
Published: March 2022

The necessity of systematic formation of intellectual connections for integration into a single complex of currently fragmented software products for the technological analysis of the castings geometry, thermodynamic modeling of the titanium alloys properties, calculation of molding mixtures thermophysical characteristics for the purpose of conjugate implementation of a set of modeling procedures and casting processes diagnostics of is proved. Lack of such an integrated software package, computer analysis of modeling results in the existing manufacturing products practice demonstrates (by the example of the shrinkage defects distribution in a responsible casting of TL3 alloy) the need for radical technological design tools’ improvement.

One of the key components of the “digital technology” being formed in the future is thermodynamic modeling of equilibrium phase transformations, which allows calculating the physico-chemical parameters, thermodynamic, thermophysical and casting parameters of titanium alloys and their evolution in the temperature range of crystallization. Based on thermodynamic simulation, experimental planning apparatus and the experience of statistical analysis carried out, a method for forming models for estimating equilibrium parameters used in modeling foundry processes has been developed, and it shows the possibility of applying it to various casting titanium alloys. For the standard composition of the TL3 alloy, a multifactor system of equations was obtained, reflecting the degree of influence of the components on the fluctuations of the alloy characteristics complex, which determine the development of a series of casting defects. The possibilities of using the obtained models for TL3 alloy and methods of obtaining them for use in computer modeling systems to increase the adequacy and accuracy of the results obtained are described.
Features of cast iron for railway brake pads
Authors: Sirenko E. A.
Published: March 2022

Thepaperpresentstheresultsof comparison of quality indices of brake shoes for railroad rolling stock made of synthetic cast iron smelted in induction furnaces and of composite material which is a vulcanized mixture of rubber and different fillers. Disclosed are the disadvantages of composite brake pads. Defects of the working surface of the railway rolling stock wheels rolling surface caused by the application of composite brake pads made of rubber-asbestos or rubber-asbestos mixture are shown. Parameters of C, Si, Mn, P, S content and carbon equivalent distribution in cast iron used for the production of «M» type brake shoes according to GOST 30249-97 are analysed. It is established that the hardness and fracture strength of pads do not correlate with the content of chemical elements in cast iron and its carbon equivalent. The ranges of C, Si, Mn, P, S distributions in the specified purpose cast iron are much narrower than the allowable limits of these elements specified in GOST 30249–97. Suggestions for improving the standards are given.
Research of forming and sintering processes of copper powder blanks for equal channel angular pressing
Authors: Kotov S. A. , Parshikov R. A. , Ganin S. V.
Published: March 2022

Copper-based powder materials have found their application in many industries. These include classical powder metallurgy, automotive and aviation industries, microelectronics, instrument engineering, and nanotechnology. In this paper, the processes of forming and sintering copper powders obtained by various methods are considered. The main part of the research was carried out on powders of the PMS-1 brand obtained by electrolysis. Four batches of samples (18 pieces each) were pressed at different pressures. Based on the results of the research, a molding mode was proposed, which should ensure the density of blanks not less than 70 % of the density of compact material. To find the simplest and most rational modes of sintering blanks, the process was carried out in air and in dissociated ammonia. The parameters of the samples were calculated after each technological operation, and the volume shrinkage of the samples was calculated depending on the initial density. Draft tests were carried out. Sediment tests were performed up to a maximum pressure of 400 MPa. Despite the fact that the degree of high-altitude deformation was 37–40 %, none of the samples collapsed during the tests, and no visible cracks were observed. Based on preliminary experiments, the masses and forming modes of rectangular blanks that were used for equal channel angular pressing were calculated. Equal channel angular pressing was performed for two samples parties obtained using different sintering modes. When pressing the first samples party, the lack of the required level of back pressure led to either a complete or significant violation of the material integrity. Before pressing the samples of the second party, a copper sample was previously placed into the channel to create a natural backpressure. It was also possible in principle to carry out the process of equal channel angular pressing of porous sintered workpieces without violating the integrity of the material.
Downhole Coiled Tubing Telemetry Reduced Time and Uncertainty During a Challenging Deepwater Milling Operation
Authors: Rondon Fajardo Sergio , Adams Edward , Williams Chloe
Published: March 2022

Fishing, cleanouts, and milling constitute the most common coiled tubing (CT) operations on the coast of Louisiana. The objective of the operations is to remove obstructions from a wellbore and to promote an unobstructed flow path for fluid, either for injection or production. Sometimes, due to the nature, weight, or length of the fish, a straight fishing operation cannot be performed. In these cases, dressing and baiting the fish with CT before a fishing attempt is necessary.

Considering previous experiences in the area, the operator wanted to remove common uncertainties that exist during CT operations including whether the correct force is transmitted from the surface, if the bottomhole assembly (BHA) is functioning correctly, and if the downhole motor is applying the correct amount of weight on bit for successful milling.

This study describes how a real-time CT downhole measurement system optimized an intervention that required dressing and baiting the top of the fish (a stuck CT string) to enable the subsequent fishing operation. The risks involved with milling a fish inside an injector well with CT in deepwater conditions motivated the use of CT telemetry capable of providing real-time downhole parameters to operate the mill both safely and efficiently.

The combination of conventional milling techniques and real-time downhole measurement capabilities enabled rapid response and adjustments to the actual downhole conditions throughout the operation, as the combination system developed and confirmed the tubing force module simulation.
Plug Fishing with Extreme Pull Force and In-Situ Diagnostics
Authors: Foucher Pierre , Wiggs Kyle , Raghavan Anand , Garzon Francisco , Spicer Jared
Published: March 2022

Well access is often a key part of interventions in the Gulf of Mexico for deepwater operations. Multiple challenges can occur and jeopardize an entire costly program and defer potential production gain. Therefore, each intervention is thoroughly planned, and each scenario is reviewed to make sure all the contingencies are anticipated, and the equipment is available if needed.

In the Atlantis field, scale buildup was impairing the production of a dual-zone frac-pack completion (Fig. 1). The smart completion integrated two hydraulically controlled valves to control the flow from an upper and lower zone. The lower zone was isolated due to scale, and the upper zone was kept in production. A lock mandrel with a plug set in an AOF nipple had been blocking the lower zone production for more than 10 years. An intervention was designed with the objective to stimulate the upper zone, and clean out and squeeze scale inhibitor in the lower zone. Post-intervention, both zones would be bought back into production to significantly boost well production delivery.
The Challenges to Retrieve a Stuck Coiled-Tubing Pipe Without Downhole Check Valves in a High-Pressure Well: A Case Study from Argentina
Authors: Vechietti Matias , Di Benedetto Belen , Krasuk Raul Miguel , Mirande Juan Martin , Franco Delgado Ernesto , Trujillo Santiago , Palombizio Giovanni , Jahn Felix , Carreno Nestor
Published: March 2022

Abstract (300 words)

This paper describes the lessons learned during the completion phase of an unconventional well in Argentina. Where a coiled tubing was used to perform a plug drill out campaign. The article describes the procedure of how the CT service provider followed to release a stuck pipe, the well barrier regains and its recovery.

The potential solutions were analyzed by the engineering teams from both CT service provider at local and headquarter levels and the local vendors. The fact of cutting the pipe after getting stuck and unsuccessful retrieval attempts result on losing the well control barriers inside the CT pipe. There was a need to regain the well control before proceeding with the retrieval process. The use of a mechanical agents to plug the pipe was assessed, it was considered internal mechanical plugs that due to logistics will result in excessive times. Therefore, the team looked into the chemical solutions, and cement plug was also visualized but discarded due to tendency of laying down in the horizontal section of the wellbore; Finally, a high viscous resin that is fast setting time was evaluated as the optimal solution to set a plug inside the CT, which was the key to success on the safe retrieval operation.

The Argentinian well was completed with 57 stages isolated by 56 dissolvable plugs over 3000 m of the horizontal section. After removing all the plugs in the horizontal section down to total depth. CT pipe was being retrieved to surface performing the final wiper trip, when it got stuck. After several unsuccessful release attempts. The decision was to cut the CT pipe at surface to allow the wireline to perform the downhole cutting.

Wireline (WL) rigged up on top of the injector head and performed a tubing puncher run, 3 m below the cutting depth. Then, WL perform a second run at the free point, at a depth of 3900 m, deploying a chemical cutter to release the CT pipe.

Once the CT pipe was confirmed free, the resin service company, proceed to install their high-pressure lines in the top of the injector head and proceed to pump 6.7 bbls of resin at a pump rate of 1.5 bpm, displacing it with 5 bbls of gel and 30 bbls of water leaving the bottom of the plug 500 m above of the new CT end. After the thickening time, a pressure test of the plug was done up to 8000 psi for 30 minutes followed by an inflow test of 6 hours, after the successful completion of both, the retrieval of the CT pipe was followed.

This project describes the design and execution process of pumping a resin plug, without previous experience within our organization at global basis, that is suitable to regain well control on CT pipes that lost the downhole safety valves after being cut due to a stuck condition.
Breaking Paradigms by Performing the First Smart Well Recompletion with a Hydraulic Work Over Unit on the Highest Production Platform, Case History from Brunei
Authors: Dulam Mel , Lim Chee Chong Brian , Muslim Dzaieznny , Chacon Alejandro , Palappetta Rakesh , Larez Frank , Learmonth Steven Jack , Chong Ka Yan
Published: March 2022

Re-completion operations with hydraulic workover units (HWO) have been carried out extensively within the industry, showcasing the high level of efficiency and compact footprint offered by this type of equipment. In an offshore environment, with small jacket platforms, the benefits of the use of said equipment are much more relevant and significant in terms of overall positive impact on the projects. However, re-completions with control lines and sensors, or usually referred to as smart-well re-completions had not been performed with HWO units in the past.

Having stated this premise, the challenge of performing the first smart well re-completion with an HWO unit presented itself with an additional hurdle, which was the fact that the tubing and control lines had to be cut instead of being able to pull from the production packer. This paper showcases the planning, execution, and results of re-completing a well in one of the top offshore gas-producing platforms in the country. Due to a smaller footprint and the advantage to continue the production from neighboring wells simultaneously, the HWO unit was selected as it represented the best overall value for the customer. The job was performed with additional support from a dynamically positioned (DP-2) vessel and a portable crane for efficient rig up and support during the intervention.
Effect of Fluid Rheology on the Performance of Fibrous Fluid in Horizontal Well Cleanout
Authors: Mendez Michael , Garcia Sergio , Ahmed Ramadan , Karami Hamidreza , Nasser Mustafa , Hussein Ibnelwaleed
Published: March 2022

The deposition of solids in the wellbore is a widely known problem encountered during drilling, completion, and intervention operations. Innovative cleanout fluids alleviate problems associated with inefficient hole cleaning. Various methods are known to provide efficient cleanout; however, their effectiveness drops as the wellbore geometry becomes more complex. One of the innovative ways of resolving this issue is to add fibers to the drilling fluid and improve its lifting capacity by reducing the settling velocity of the solids. This study is aimed at evaluating the cleanout performance of fibrous fluids in horizontal wells using a large-scale flow loop.

The flow loop has a 48-ft long annular test section that has a 5-inch wellbore and 2.375-inch drill pipe. In each experiment, the solids bed is initially formed in the annulus with natural sand that has similar particle size distribution as solids found in oil and gas wells. Low-viscosity and high-viscosity polymeric suspensions were used with and without fiber. During the investigation, flow rate and fluid rheology were varied while measuring the equilibrium bed height. The bed height was measured starting at the lowest flow rate. Then, the flow rate was increased step by step until the bed was completely cleaned. The measured test parameters include flow rate and pressure loss, which were monitored and recorded using the data acquisition system. The pipe section was used to monitor the rheology of the fluids before the completion of the test.

The results demonstrated the effectiveness of fiber in improving hole cleanout in horizontal wellbores. When a small amount of fiber (0.04% wt.) was added, the cleanout performance of the high-viscosity fluid did not show a noticeable change while that of the low-viscosity improved significantly. Even though the addition of fiber had minimal impact on the rheological characteristics of the fluids, the fiber improved the solid carrying capacity of the low viscosity fluid. In the horizontal configuration, the cleaning process of solids requires resuspension of deposited solids and transportation of the suspended particles from one location to another. Fiber particles are more effective in improving the carrying capacity of the fluids than their resuspension capability. Hence, the low-viscosity fluid which has a better resuspension capacity as compared to the high-viscosity fluid exhibited better cleanout performance when the same amount of fiber was introduced.

In the absence of pipe rotation during coiled tubing operations, wellbore cleanout after drilling and milling operations require efficient and optimized hole cleaning, especially in horizontal wells. The presented large-scale flow loop study provides a unique analysis of the dynamics of hole cleanout in horizontal wells using novel fibrous fluids.
Smart Intervention Restores Production in Deep Water Well
Authors: Davis Philip Sean , Burger Ronnie , Ransonet Gerald
Published: March 2022

Recently, a significant producer in the deep water Gulf of Mexico (GoM) exhibited a loss of production. An investigation determined that a valve in the sliding sleeve assembly, a small portion of the installed completion, malfunctioned and resulted in the valve not opening as commanded. The operator created a team to diagnose the problem without using the usual method of recovery and replacement of the full assembly, which would require a significant amount of time and costly equipment.

The team of various subject matter experts (SME) from the completions unit, the manufacturing company of the equipment and an electric line intervention provider determined that they could use two methods to exploit the design of the sliding sleeve to create a new flow-path and restore production without damaging the rest of the in-place completion. Both challenging methods required a high degree of precision and accuracy. To maintain the mechanical integrity of the downhole equipment, the tolerance window for the cut was within two inches (at depths greater than 27,000 ft), and cut radius tolerances were less than 1/100th of an inch.

Two electric lines intervention tools were found to be capable of performing the type of cut required for the primary and secondary methods (one for each method). These selected tools are frequently used in the GoM, which promotes a high level of confidence in their success.

After extensive surface testing, the tools were deployed downhole and were successful on the first attempt. The operation was monitored and controlled at surface, and the tools performed the required cut in less than sixty minutes. Once the tools were retrieved, the sleeve was commanded open once again, and full communication to the formation was restored. With the utilization of this technology and methodology, the project was able to save in excess of $40,000,000 USD.
Complete Analysis of a Complex Sand Screen Completion in a Single Run in Hole is Enabled by Combination of Novel Passive Acoustic Tools with Conventional PLT and Caliper Techniques
Authors: Troup Duncan
Published: March 2022

Wells with sand control measures may still exhibit onset of sanding during production, often due to isolated damage of individual screen sections. Positive identification of the location of the sand production allows targeted mitigation to remove the sanding source while retaining as much hydrocarbon flow as possible. This paper discusses the novel acoustic techniques used to identify productive zones and areas of sand production in a well suffering a sanding event.

Ultrasonic methods for sand detection in a downhole environment have proved troublesome primarily due to the difficulty in separating acoustic signatures due to particle impacts from those generated by turbulent flow. Advances in sensor technology and digital sampling have enabled reliable discrimination of turbulence and particle signatures in both controlled flow-loop conditions and in real producing wells. Novel processing algorithms have been developed to not only detect sand ingress points, but also to quantify and characterise sand particles in the flow stream.

A horizontal oil producing well exhibited a change of behaviour following an increase in choke opening, when it started to produce sand along with an increased water cut. A toolstring combining production logging, acoustic sand detection and multifinger caliper with a tractor for conveyance was deployed in the well and a number of passes were made combining continuous logging and stationary recordings. The acquired data indicated there was no crossflow during shut-in, while there were indications of sand build-up over the lower sections of screens. With the well flowing, the PL data showed the inflow profile across all screens and identified a point of very large influx of mostly water. Analysis of the acoustic data using transient statistical sampling techniques showed this to be the main source of sand entering the wellbore and was able to verify sand transport in the flow stream. Analysis using general noise level sampling was able to detect energy due to turbulent flow in and into the wellbore, correlated with spinner responses, and also in the near wellbore environment behind certain screens. Multifinger caliper data confirmed the general integrity of the screens and enabled the planning of isolation measures to shut off sand production while minimising production loss.

The verified ability of the new tool to separate the acoustic signatures of particle impacts from turbulent flow noise brings an additional aspect to production logging interpretation, allowing inflow profiling for solids as well as fluid phases. Statistical analysis of the broad-spectrum noise recorded also reveals information about fluid flow not just in the wellbore but also in the near-wellbore environment behind the primary tubular. This information can prove critical in analysis of completion design.
Fishing More than 8,300-ft of U-Shaped Collapsed Electric-Cable-Equipped Coiled-Tubing: A Case Study from United Arab Emirates
Authors: Franco Delgado Ernesto , Khan Muhammad Talha , Khan Rao Shafin Ali , Molero Nestor , Gilash Anna , Mattos Rafael Fernando , Basha Maged , Laplante Tony , Szeller Mark
Published: March 2022

Abstract (300 words)

During the completion phase of an unconventional well in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), an electric-cable-equipped coiled tubing (ECE-CT) had to be cut and dropped in hole while performing a plug-and-perf campaign. The CT service provider and tool manufacturer jointly redesigned a specific fishing tool for a flat-shaped collapsed CT pipe, which allowed the latching of the U-shaped collapsed ECE-CT pipe and its safe recovery.

The fish and potential solutions were analyzed by the engineering teams from operator, CT service provider, and tool manufacturer. Because of the U-shape of the fish, the existing techniques of conventional overshot for rounded profiles and flat overshot for flat-shaped profiles could not be applied. The U-shape of the fish was replicated and used to create the overshot entry guide. The prototype was manufactured and tested at surface to ensure the profile was getting inside. The tool-string included an indexing tool to allow controlled rotation, which was key to the success of that fishing operation.

Upon completion of the last perforating stage in a 10-stage completion in the well, the ECE-CT pipe accidentally parted and then collapsed when it was being retrieved to surface. The CT operator activated the pipe/slips ram, but a leak was observed. The 2-in. CT pipe was cut and dropped by activating the shear/seal ram, thus leaving 8,360-ft of CT pipe in the well.

A lead-impression-block (LIB) run to identify the fish profile found the U-shape fish at a depth of 6,686-ft. The electric cable did not cover the top of the fish, thus reducing the risk of the retrieval operation. Despite several attempts made with the available fishing tools for rounded profiles, even when latching was achieved, the fish was lost. Inspection of the overshot after it reached surface showed the presence of broken slips due to uneven load transmission.

After analysis of both the top of fish and available fishing tools, a hybrid rounded/flat overshot was designed to allow the U-shaped CT pipe to get inside the overshot and the traveling slip to latch onto the collapsed body, allowing higher contact area and resulting in the proper latch and retrieval of the collapsed ECE-CT pipe.

Because a suitable overshot was not available, the operation required designing, producing, and implementing a customized hybrid semi-rounded/flat overshot for U-shaped profiles, as well as the development of a new methodology, to successfully latch and recover the pipe. The availability of a tools manufacturer inside the country allowed a fast response, it only took 7-days to design, manufacture, and test the tool prototype, thus limiting the time the well remained idle.
Level of Maternal Health Literacy (MHL) and Associated Factors among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care Clinics of Public Health Facilities in Southern Ethiopia, 2021: A Facility Based Crossectional Study with Linear Models
Authors: Habte Aklilu , Dessu Samuel , Endale Fitsum , Gizachew Addisalem
Published: March 2022

Background: Maternal Health Literacy (MHL) is defined as a woman's cognitive and social abilities and motivation to access, assess, understand and use basic health information and services to make informed decisions that protect and promote their own and their children's health. Pregnant women's HL will enhance the effectiveness and long-term viability of those services by allowing them to get health-related knowledge and behaviours during this critical period. As a result, this study aimed at assessing the level of health literacy and associated factors among pregnant women in Southern Ethiopia, 2021.Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 635 pregnant women attending ANC units of selected health facilities from January 1 to February 30, 2021, by using pre-tested, interviewer-administered questionnaires. A multistage sampling technique was employed and study participants were selected by using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were entered into EpiData3.1 and exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. A bivariable statistical analysis was performed through analysis of variance (ANOVA) and independent t-tests and variables with a p-value of < 0.05 were eligible for the multiple linear regression model. To see the weight of each explanatory variable on MHL, multiple linear regression was employed, and the strength and direction of the association were reported by using a regression coefficient (β) with the respected 95% confidence interval.Results: The mean health literacy score of study participants was 23.85±2.87 in which, more than half, 336 (53.5%)( 95%CI: 49.1, 58.1) of the study participants had a good MHL level or above the mean score. The multiple linear regression analysis results revealed a significant relationship between MHL and educational level (β: 1.358; p<0.001), gravidity(β: 1.439; p<0.001), ANC visits (β: 1.418; p <0.001), enrolment in CBHI scheme (β: 2.282; p<0.001) and being a model household(MMH) (β: 1.681; p<0.001).Conclusion and recommendation: The pregnant women in the current study area had a low level of maternal health literacy. Local governments should focus their efforts on establishing adult literacy centers in their respective locations. Pregnant women should be encouraged to attend adequate ANC visits, as per health care providers. Finally, at the community level, administrative bodies and health professionals should work on developing a model household and enrolling unenrolled households in the CBHI scheme.
Ulnar Neuropathy Caused by Intraneural Cold Abscess Due to Leprosy: Case Report
Authors: Abuelnour Moatasem , Harrington Paul
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Ulnar neuropathy due to cubital tunnel syndrome is a common presentation in elective orthopaedic clinics with causes usually attributed to idiopathic chronic compression. However, rare diagnoses should be considered. Case presentation: we present a case of chronic insidious ulnar neuropathy in a 52 year old female with a two year history of progressive left hand weakness and decreased sensation. She was born in West Africa and she was noted to be generally fit and healthy. Surgical exploration and decompression of ulnar nerve showed fusiform swelling and caseous material discharged out from small incision in nerve sheath. Leprotic neuropathy was suspected and confirmed by microbiology lab. Pure neurotic leprosy is extremely rare and nerve biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis. There were 202,256 new leprosy cases registered globally in 2019 according to WHO (World Health Organization) figures, and disease can present decades after exposure. Conclusion: leprotic neuropathy should be considered in the differential diagnosis of peripheral ulnar neuropathy even in temperate regions to avoid delay in diagnosis and undesirable sequalae.
Impact of Ultraviolet-Absorbing 2-Hydroxy-4-Quaternaryammoniumalkoxy Benzophenone Motif on Photodegradation of Disulfoton: A Case Study
Authors: Deota Pradeep , Parmar Hemant S , Patel Gautam M , Bhatt Gaurang J
Published: March 2022

Pesticide deposits post-treatment and before diffusing inside the plants are exposed to sunlight. Many of them degrade into a variety of photo products that may be harmful to living beings through accidental ingestion. The addition of ultraviolet light absorbers to the pesticide formulations is an attractive strategy to prevent photodegradation of the pesticides. Water-soluble quaternary ammonium ultraviolet light absorbers (QAUVAs) were synthesized from 2,4-dihydroxy benzophenones (BP-1) and their structures were confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, UV, and FTIR. A cost-saving approach for the photoprotection of disulfoton insecticide using these QAUVAs is presented. All the four QAUVAs exhibit excellent UV screening effect. The insesticide disulfoton was recovered in much higher amounts (22.27 ~ 25.64% higher than control) when it was irradiated in the presence of QAUVAs in comparison with the amount of recovery of pesticide exposed in absence of them.
Role of invasive gobies for transmission of acanthocephalans of the genus Pomphorhynchus in the River Rhine
Authors: Nachev Milen , Hohenadler Michael , Bröckers Nicklas , Grabner Daniel , Sures Bernd
Published: March 2022

Ponto-Caspian gobies became highly abundant in many regions outside their native distribution range (e.g. Rhine River system). In the newly invaded habitats, the parasite communities of the invasive gobies are characterized by a lower species richness compared to their native range. However, acanthocephalans of the genus Pomphorhynchus are highly abundant, whereas in gobies they do not become mature and mostly remain encapsulated in the abdominal cavity as preadults. Thus, gobiids could either represent a dead-end host leading to a decline of the Pomphorhynchus sp. population (dilution effect) or act as a paratenic host that could increase the infection pressure to the original host community (spill back). To determine the importance of gobiids for one or the other process mentioned, we conducted two infection experiments using smaller and larger individuals of the definitive host chub (Squalius cephalus), which were infected with preadults of P. bosniacus collected from the abdominal cavity of Neogobius melanostomus. The results showed that preadults obtained from gobiids can develop and mature in the definitive host with mean recovery rates of 17.9 % in smaller and 27.0 % in larger chubs. No infection was observed in 38.0 % and 20.0 % for smaller and larger chubs respectively. Our study clearly demonstrated that gobies serve as a paratenic host for acanthocephalans of genus Pomphorhynchus and thus spill back the infection into the local fish community. However, comparisons with previous experimental studies conducted with cystacanths from intermediate gammarid hosts showed that the preadults have significantly lower recovery rates than cystacanths.
Uncovering the Influence of Hydrological and Climate Variables in Chlorophyll-A Concentration in Tropical Reservoirs with Machine Learning
Authors: Carvalho Taís Maria Nunes , Neto Iran Eduardo Lima , Filho Francisco de Assis de Souza
Published: March 2022

Climate variability and change, associated with increasing water demands, can have significant implications for water availability. In the Brazilian semi-arid, eutrophication in reservoirs raises the risk of water scarcity. The reservoirs have also a high seasonal and annual variability of water level and volume, which can have important effects on Chlorophyll-a concentration (Chla). Assessing the influence of climate and hydrological variability on phytoplankton growth can be important to find strategies to achieve water security in tropical regions with similar problems. This study explores the potential of machine learning models to predict Chla in reservoirs and to understand their relationship with hydrological and climate variables. The model is based mainly on satellite data, which makes the methodology useful for data-scarce regions. Tree-based ensemble methods had the best performances among six machine learning methods and one parametric model. This performance can be considered satisfactory as classical empirical relationships between Chla and phosphorus may not hold for tropical reservoirs. Water volume and the mix-layer depth are inversely related to Chla, while mean surface temperature, water level, and surface solar radiation have direct relationships with Chla. These findings provide insights on how seasonal climate prediction and reservoir operation might influence water quality in regions supplied by superficial reservoirs.
Birefringent Properties of Aqueous Cellulose Nanocrystal Suspensions
Authors: Lane Connor Piers , Rode David Wang , Rösgen Thomas
Published: March 2022

Birefringence measurements of aqueous cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) suspensions are reported. Seven suspensions with concentrations between 0.7–1.3 percentage per weight are sheared in a Taylor-Couette type setting and characterized using a birefringent measurement technique based on linear polarized light and acquisition with a polarization camera. Steady state measurements with shear rates up to 31 1/s show extinction angles of 23–40° and birefringence in the order of 1e-5. The findings demonstrate the utility of CNC suspensions for flow birefringence studies.
Effects of Furfural residues on community composition and diversity of rhizosphere microbe of seed production
Authors: Zhao Yunchen , Chen Guangquan , Yan Zhibin , Wang Zhijiang , Fu Wenjiang
Published: March 2022

The influence of furfural residue on rhizosphere microbiota of corn seed production after long-term cropping need to be understood. High-throughput sequencing and field plots was employed to investigate its influence on the rhizosphere microbe of maize seed production. The results showed that unplanted, chemical fertilizer (only), furfural residue, and seasonal soil batches recruited distinct rhizosphere microbiota. The microbial community diversity and OTUs increased compared with that of unplanted soil. With exception of Ascomycota, maize plants grown under field conditions were preferentially colonized by Zygomycota in unplanted soil, Mortierellomycota in chemical fertilizer-only soil, while Basidiomycota in frufural residue-treated soil. Potential pathogens as Alternaria, Trichocladium, Bipolaris etc. were not detected, while beneficial microbes as Penicillium, Schizothecium and Rhizophlyctis were presented. Acidobacteria and Bacteroidetes increased, and Actinobacteria and Firmicutes decreased in furfural residue application. The core bacteria after long-term continuous cropping were MND1, RB41, UTCFX1, Nitrospira, Cellvibrio, Adhaeribacter etc. The relative abundances of Clostridium, Pseudarthrobacter and Roseiflexus decreased; Haliangium, Nitrospira and MND1 increased; and Pirellula, Ellin6067 and Luteimonas reduced in different seasonal soil batches. Amendment with furfural residue promoted the development of beneficial microbes and decreased the relative abundance of pathogens. Also, the amendment increased cellulose- degrading and complex carbon-decomposing microbes, decreased the number of reductive substance-decomposing microbes, which led to a shift in microbial community structure over time and improved the rhizosphere environment. Furfural residue can be used as a soil amendment to relieve soil-borne diseases and to establish beneficial soil microbes.
Evaluation of Chronotype and Sleep Quality in Infertile Population and Comparison With Fertile Population: a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Özçelik Ceren , Varlı Bulut , Gökçe Ali , Takmaz Taha , Çetin Çağlar , Özcan Pinar
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Infertility is a stressful condition for couples and can affect patients' circadian rhythm and sleep quality. The goal of this study is to see if there were any differences in chronotype and sleep quality between infertile and fertile people.Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted in a university hospital-based obstetrics and gynecology clinic. The infertile patient population was a study group and consisted of patients with infertility. Primiparous patients who presented for routine cervical cancer screening follow-up were included in the control group. The Turkish version of the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) and Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores were evaluated between groups.Results: A total of 227 patients were assessed, and their MEQ and PSQI values compared according to their fertility situation. There were 110 patients in the study (infertile) group and 117 patients in the control (fertile) group. The evening type chronotype proportion (23.6% vs 0.9%, p<0.001) was more common in the infertile group. There was no statistical important difference according to intermediate chronotype proportion between two groups (61.8% vs 59.8%; p=0.35). PSQI > 5 patients were higher in the infertile group proportionally (72.7% vs. 21.4%, p<0.001). The median of MEQ score was significantly higher in the fertile patients (50, IQR=43 – 55 vs. 56, IQR= 51 – 59; p<0.001), and the median of PSQI score was significantly higher in the infertile patients (5, IQR= 4 – 6, vs. 4, IQR= 3 – 5; p<0.001)Conclusions: In the present study we found significantly worse sleep quality, and more evening chronotype in the patients with infertility.
An Expeditious Tool for the Vulnerability Assessment of Masonry Structures in Post-Earthquake Reconstruction
Authors: De Santis Stefano
Published: March 2022

Post-earthquake reconstruction activities need tools for assessing the vulnerability of structures, based on visual inspection and quick survey. So far, the public administrations in charge of granting the funds and monitoring reconstruction have adopted different methods taken from scientific literature or developed ad hoc for specific events. The time is ripe for a standard method to be developed, treasuring from the lessons learned in the field. This paper proposes an expeditious tool based on visual survey for the assessment of the seismic vulnerability of unreinforced masonry buildings, starting from available methods, whose parameters were reassessed and recalibrated, and scientific evidence from recent literature. The influence of the main structural features was considered to calculate a vulnerability index in the 0 ÷ 100 range. The effects of materials and arrangement of masonry were quantitatively evaluated through the masonry quality index, which represents an advancement with respect to current practice. The method was validated on a sample of 50 masonry aggregates and nearly 200 structural units of L’Aquila, Italy, where reconstruction is underway after a destructive earthquake in 2009, which is representative of the built heritage of other earthquake prone areas in Italy and many European Countries.
Relationship of High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein with Cardiovascular, Diabetic, and Hepatic Biomarkers
Authors: Krishnamurthy Hari Krishnan , Reddy Swarnkumar , Jayaraman Vasanth , Krishna Karthik , Song Qi , Rajasekaran Karenah E. , Wang Tianhao , Bei Kang , Rajasekaran John J.
Published: March 2022

Biomarkers are early predictors of various disorders, circulating level of C-reactive protein is a sensitive biomarker of systemic inflammation and may also be associated with the development of diabetic, hepatic, and cardiovascular diseases. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the association between circulating levels of high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and various biomarkers for hepatic, diabetic, and cardiovascular health. The retrospective analysis included 438 individuals who were tested for these panels simultaneously at Vibrant America Clinical Laboratory. The study population included free-living individuals without any preexisting clinical conditions. Among the cardiovascular markers, a positive correlation and significant association was found between high levels of hs-CRP and the serum levels of triglycerides (r = 0.0964, p < 0.0428). Quantitative analysis also exhibited a negative correlation of HDL (r=-0.1423, p < 0.0027) and Apo A (r=-0.1216, p < 0.0105) with circulating levels of hs-CRP. Among all the diabetic markers glucose (r = 0.1547, p < 0.0011) and glycated serum protein (r = 0.1725, p < 0.0003) were positively correlated with circulating hs-CRP. In the hepatic panel, AST a transaminase that plays a vital role in amino acid metabolism was found to have a strong positive correlation with hs-CRP (r = 0.2139, p < 0.0001). In conclusion, the results clearly show the association of hs-CRP with diabetic, hepatic, and cardiovascular risk factors indicating its central value as a key marker for several lifestyle-associated disorders.
Adaptive Contacts Rates via Indirect Human Behavior Induces Complex Dynamics of Schistosomiasis
Authors: TRIPATHI JAI PRAKASH , Bajiya Vijay Pal , Mubayi Anuj
Published: March 2022

Schistosomiasis is one of the major neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) with more than 240 million people currently infected, primarily ( 90%) in sub-Saharan Africa. It is treated and primarily controlled through mass drug administration (MDA) in endemic regions. Determining the extent to which an intervention to control Schistosomiasis has been suc- cessful, is essential, but its evaluation become complicated by the potential for an outbreak to evolve over time via change in behaviors of individuals in the affected community. We study the role of changes in population behaviors on the patterns of Schistosomiasis via a novel transmission dynamics model which explicitly involves two free living larval stages, the Cercariae and Miracidia , and two host populations, the snail and the human. The average number of Miracidia reduces due to the change in human behaviors (like avoid wading, swimming and other contacts to contaminated water), consequently, reduction in the average number of Miracidia affect the rate of infection transmission. Thus, the model assumes that change in population behaviors indirectly affect the rate of infection transmission. Rigorous mathematical analysis on the model was carried and it suggests threshold behavior in long term dynamics governed by reproductive number R 0 . The dynamics shows existence of at least two equilibria (disease-free and endemic state) and regions of their global stability in the parameter space. Our results also suggest that removal of snails from the water bodies is most effective control strategy for elimination of Schistosomiasis infection as compared to either increasing of human treatment rates or cleaning of free-living Cercariae from local water bodies. The indirect human behav- ioral changes do not affect the likelihood of the existence/eradication of epidemic (i.e., R 0 does not depend on parameters related to behavioral change), however, their impact are critical on the endemic prevalence. Our results provide some new understanding about elimination of Schistosomiasis and could be useful for optimal distribution of resources for control programs.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of GATA family genes in wheat
Authors: Yu Qian , Liu Wenxing , Feng Xue , Zeng Jianbin , He Xiaoyan
Published: March 2022

Transcription factors GATAs were a member of zinc finger protein, which could bind DNA regulatory regions to control expression of target genes, thus influencing plant growth and development either in normal condition or environmental stresses. Recently, GATA genes have been found and functionally characterized in a number of plant species. However, little information of GATA genes were annotated in wheat. In the current study, 79 GATA genes were identified in wheat, which were unevenly located on 21 chromosomes. According to the analysis of phylogenetic tree and functional domain structures, TaGATAs were classified into four subfamilies (I, II, III, and IV), consist of 35, 21, 12, and 11 genes, respectively. Meanwhile, the amino acids of 79 TaGATAs exhibited apparent difference in four subfamilies according to GATA domains comparison, gene structures and conserved motif analysis. We then analyze the gene duplication and synteny between the genomes of wheat and Arabidopsis, rice and barley, which provided insights into evolutionary characteristics. In addition, expression patterns of TaGATAs were analyzed, and they showed obvious difference in diverse tissues and abiotic stresses. In general, these results provide useful information for future TaGATA gene function analysis, and it helps to better understand molecular breeding and stress response in wheat.