bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In-Basin Sand Performance in the Permian Basin and the Case for Northern White Sand
Authors: Malone M. R. , Bazan L. W. , Eckart M. J.
Published: January 2024

Proppant selection, and the resulting dimensionless fracture conductivity, impacts well performance. Proppant quality standards were developed to quantify proppant performance using dimensionless fracture conductivity, correlating the flow potential of the propped fracture relative to the formation. Since 2018, there has been a near complete switch to in-basin sand (IBS) for completing oil and gas wells in the Permian Basin. The switch to IBS has primarily been based on the idea that overall well and field economics are improved because: 1) capital costs are lowered by sourcing sand locally reducing costs and logistics, and 2) well results using IBS were "good enough" in terms of well performance justifying the use of inferior proppants. Little regard is given to the long-term production impacts, field development value and cumulative free cash flow over a five-to-ten-year horizon.

Rystad Energy (2022) evaluated 850 wells from seven operators in both the Midland and Delaware basins and provided clear evidence that the perceived benefits of using IBS to complete Wolfcamp A (WCA) wells in the Permian is not accurate. The Rystad Energy studies will be reviewed in detail. This manuscript presents extensive hydraulic fracture modeling and production simulations of the WCA formation for both the Delaware and Midland basins using 100- and 40/70-mesh to identify the conductivity difference between IBS and NWS to provide an engineering basis for the Rystad Energy results. Conductivity differences for each mesh and sand type ultimately allowed a comparison of well production and net cash flow for P50 wells. The WCA production forecast cases were calibrated to the published Rystad Energy data, where possible, and EUR values. The payout, cumulative production differences and net cash flow are presented comparing IBS and NWS materials.

Comparing results between NWS and IBS provides an engineering basis that NWS characteristics drive superior well performance in the Permian basin. As fracture conductivity increases, either from using NWS material or larger mesh sizes, the well production also increases over time. This is also the general conclusion from the Rystad study. This work demonstrates that NWS, while more expensive upfront, performs better throughout the well life, and is almost always the better economic choice and shows a long-term benefit using NWS. Utilizing IBS in the Permian basin results in suboptimal cashflow and reduced long-term profitability.

The well performance using IBS is expected to progressively worsen over time. This work demonstrates fractures in the Permian basin are conductivity limited and using IBS negatively affects cash flow and long term well deliverability. NWS is a superior product to IBS and generates enhanced fracture conductivity and production in the Delaware and Midland basins.
Improving Stage Isolation in Vaca Muerta Wells Through Observations from an Integrated Fiber Optic Pilot
Authors: Savitski Alexei A. , Lock Benjamin , Todea Felix , Fita Patricio , Formento Gabriel , Al Lawati Hawraa I. , Mondal Somnath , Ugueto Gustavo
Published: January 2024

The productivity of an unconventional well depends on reservoir quality that can be selected but not controlled and completions that can be optimized. The challenge with improving a completion design is the lack of information about the actual downhole performance. An ultimate requirement for an effective completion is to have isolation between two adjacent stages. The observations and recommendations for improving stage isolation are made from the first integrated fiber optic (FO) pilot in Vaca Muerta.

Shell conducted an integrated diagnostic pilot in Vaca Muerta that included acquisition of multiple data types, such as: permanent fiber optics installation, surface microseismic monitoring, downhole pressure gauges, mudlogging, open and cased hole logging. One of the objectives for this project was to evaluate stage isolation performance for different plug types. Stage isolation was analyzed based on the DAS and DTS interpretation in two wells equipped with permanent fiber optic cable. Complementary, isolation integrity test (IIT) was performed in three stages of each well during wireline pump down operations. These results are compared with the FO interpretations.

This paper summarizes observations from the real-time monitoring of operations on two wells landed in different zones. Three solutions for stage isolation were tested in these wells. A statistical analysis of their performance is presented. The interpretation of the isolation integrity test is summarized and discussed. The isolation results between FO and IIT are cross-checked. While all stages with IIT data have good isolation based on FO interpretation, three of IIT tests indicate the lack of isolation. This discrepancy is discussed in the paper. During the execution of the pilot, observations were made about the impact of the treatment schedule on the plug performance. Modifications were implemented during execution and recommendations are made for future completions.

The investigation extends to evaluating plug isolation failures using FO monitoring after pad-wide fracture stimulation. We enhance our analysis by including multifinger caliper measurements (pre and post stimulation) to assess deformation and ovality in FO-instrumented wells, aligning these observations with plug failure instances. A post-fracturing ovality difference between landing zones was identified. While plug isolation failures are often associated with ovalization, it's essential to note that no specific ovality threshold was found to reliably predicts plug isolation success. These insights deepen the understanding of stage isolation challenges across the well pad.
Assessment of Augmented Depletion Development Technology Across us Shale Plays
Authors: Merzoug Ahmed , Pandey Vibhas J.
Published: January 2024

The concept of Augmented Depletion Development (ADD) was introduced to the industry through a pilot project conducted in the Bakken play in the United States (US). These wells are open-hole wells drilled within the fractured network of a pad. They are not fractured stimulated deliberately but do produce and contribute to the overall production of the lease. In this study, we use numerical modeling to understand the potential performance of these wells in several plays across the US.

The study is based on results obtained from the simulations run on a numerical model that combines hydraulic fracturing, geomechanics, and reservoir flow in one code. This allows for a better understanding of the influence of different parameters on the performance of these wells and their potential influence on the well-performance. This study assesses ADD's potential in 4 US plays: Bakken, Eagle Ford, Midland, and the Anadarko Basin. The sensitivity was conducted based on the time of stimulation of the child well and the time of drilling the ADD well. The spacing of the existing wells is the one that existed before drilling of the ADD well. Incremental production from each of the scenarios was compared. An uncertainty analysis on proppant degradation was conducted to assess the effect of proppant degradation on the production decline.

Results showed that ADD wells’ performance varies from one play to another. The trend shows that these wells tend to perform better as the permeability improves. The incremental production is in the range of 5%-20% and was shown to be directly proportional to the well spacing. These wells produce lower volumes when drilled later in the field development phase as the pressure in the reservoir drops. In tighter spacings, these wells compete for the same volume as the stimulated wells. The proppant pack degradation with time results in reduced production, though the incremental production remains unchanged. Although these wells are not economically viable in all cases, their implementation does require wider well-spacing. For the best results such wells must be introduced at the onset of drilling program and should be made ready to produce at an early stage of field development.

This work is the first published simulation that attempts at assessing a new technology for various plays across the United States. The learnings from this study can be used as a benchmark for operators that are planning on implementing such wells in their field development programs.
Fracturing 30,000 ft Wells in Deepwater, Planning and Execution Learnings from the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Lizak K. F. , Zhang Y.
Published: January 2024

As shallower reservoirs deplete, the search for hydrocarbons is going deeper in the Gulf of Mexico. These reservoirs generally have lower permeability than many of the shallower reservoirs and require massive hydraulic fractures to reach economical production rates.1–4 The reservoirs are generally over-pressured and can require heavy weight drilling and completion fluids for well control. Fracturing fluids are often weighted, with viscosity and friction that require customization to the long work strings to permit sufficient rates to effectively fracture the formation. The lower permeability in these reservoirs require massive volumes of proppant to achieve the desired fracture lengths and conductivities, which can lead to erosional and logistics issues. As drawdowns greater than 10,000 psi are planned early in these wells’ lives, the pumping schedules need to consider the effects of increased stress on the proppant and possible future fracture conductivity loss. Descriptions of these issues along with discussions of current and proposed future solutions are provided.
Performance Redefined: A Business-Centric Approach to Assessing Hydraulic Fracturing Execution
Authors: Mogck D. , Doucette J.
Published: January 2024

The hydraulic fracturing of an unconventional well is typically the single most significant component of the expenditure for that well; however, there is no industry standard for assessing the efficiency of that operation.

This work will present an approach for evaluating hydraulic fracturing performance that transcends commonly used key performance indicators (KPIs). Historically, the industry has focused on various metrics, such as pumping hours per day, to quantify a frac crew's efficiency. However, many commonly used KPIs may provide incomplete and sometimes misleading indicators of the actual performance of a given completions spread.

This paper will present examples of traditionally used KPIs, instances where they have gone wrong, and offer an alternative means of consolidating and visualizing data from various commonly available sources. The intent is to better diagnose drivers affecting the performance of a given hydraulic fracturing spread.

Commonly collected data from a hydraulic fracturing job, including rates, volumes, design parameters, and job logs, are transformed into consistent and easily understandable metrics. These data have been collected for hundreds of jobs and stages over the last few years and integrated into a dashboard to get a high-level understanding of performance. The authors of this paper have mined these data sets for examples to share lessons learned from experience and present some of the critical factors that can substantially impact performance.

A review of historically used KPIs (stages, hours, feet per day, transition times, etc.) will reveal that none are ideal, and many suffer significant flaws. For example, a typical ‘stage’ design can vary wildly between areas. Pumping hours per day do not account for actual output during those hours. Case studies will illustrate the potential pitfalls of traditional KPI tracking and introduce the value of a more comprehensive approach.

The methodology presented will divide the efficiency of a frac crew into a few broad buckets. The first encompasses surface efficiency - how physical operations on the well site affect the ability to pump. The second is hydraulic efficiency - quantifying how effectively the spread can attain and maintain the target pumping rate.

The final bucket focuses on capturing overall crew performance in a single metric – slurry volume pumped. The volume pumped per day captures daily performance, while cumulative volume pumped over time reveals macro efficiency trends.

Hydraulic fracturing KPIs have not been standardized. Additionally, they are often only evaluated and reviewed monthly or quarterly, not daily. Subsurface drivers of efficiency are also commonly neglected. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first work to present a methodology for holistically assessing a hydraulic fracturing operation's effectiveness and efficiency using a combination of surface and subsurface metrics trackable on a daily basis.
Shale & Tight Perforation Design Optimization
Authors: Lorehn O. , Cooper J. , Singh A. , Nizamidin N. , Chalmers R. , Galimzhanov S.
Published: January 2024

Improving cluster efficiency is critical for economic and efficient multi-cluster per stage fracturing in unconventional shale & tight horizontal well completion. This paper highlights the findings from a field trial to test different perforation design variables which contribute to cluster efficiency. The goal was to optimize perforation design parameters and improve cluster efficiency for a given stage, and thus the well in its entirety.

A two well trial was conducted across the same bench formation on a single pad in Midland Basin. In all, eight perforation designs were created using two set points (high and low) across three key perforation design variables: 1) perforation phasing & orientation, 2) perforation diameter, and 3) perforation friction. Each design was repeated eight times (i.e. eight stages) to allow for a meaningful number of data points. After stimulation operations were conducted an acoustic imaging technology was utilized to assess the perforation dimensions for all perforations post-fracture for all stages as well as various sets of pre-fracture perforations.

In total, the trial was conducted across 64 stages (8 perforation designs × 8 stages per perforation design) using a Design of Experiments (DoE) method to assign low or high set points for each perforation design to best ascertain the impact of each test variable on the response variable as well as test for multicollinearity across the test variables. The uniformity index metric was used as a proxy for cluster efficiency and was calculated using two methods (a) eroded perforation area increase, and (b) post frac perforation area. Based upon the results obtained from the acoustic imaging data set and the subsequent data analysis, the uniformity index improved with a perforation design that had higher average perforation friction, smaller perforation hole shot size and a 0 degree in-line perforation orientation.

The field trial results of uniformity index provided high quality statistical quantification of optimum perforation design parameters and its impact on cluster efficiency.
Evaluation of Completion Designs and Fracture Heterogeneity via an Instrumented Slant Monitor Well
Authors: Benish T. G. , Brown J. S , Chhatre S. S. , Decker K. K. , Habrial J. D. , Manchanda R. , Solomou A. , Vice D. S.
Published: January 2024

Data collected from a passive instrumented monitor well was used to differentiate conductive fracture length and fracture density generated by three different completion designs in the Midland basin. The monitor well was drilled slanting laterally away from a nearby producer and instrumented with fiber optics and a pressure gauge array. The fiber and gauges were monitored during stimulation of the offset well to measure the evolution of created fracture geometry as a function of distance, as well as at various times during production to infer conductive fracture geometries. Integrating the data sets permitted comparison between created fracture geometry and productive dimensions over time while also providing a better understanding of the heterogeneity of conductive fracture lengths within and amongst stages.

Both fiber and pressure measurements complemented each other to discern clear differences in the conductive fracture lengths between the 3 completion designs. The maximum conductive half-length and the distribution of smaller fractures detected by fiber both showed trends in stimulated rock volume between the different designs, while also quantifying the non-uniformity of fracture lengths generated from each stage. These trends were confirmed by the pressure depletion from each stimulation design as a function of distance from the stimulated well, as well as a novel pressure analysis method to infer fracture density. Together, these results have informed on subsequent decisions on stimulation design and well spacing.
Updating the Field Development Practices After the Acquisition of an Asset, an Eagle Ford Case Study
Authors: Pichon Stephane
Published: January 2024

This paper retraces the journey of an Operator to update a Field Development Plan after the acquisition of an asset in the Eagle Ford where drilling has been suspended for several years. The objective is to explore how development practices can be upgraded by updating completion, well spacing and management of the Parent-Child in the context of a mature asset. Now that the acreage is ours, what will we do to develop it?

The asset features different generations of completion styles from small hybrid to large slickwater treatments. Production performance is analyzed along with acquired data and field tests run by previous Operators. After a complete reservoir characterization (both petrophysics and geomechanics), an integrated numerical model for hydraulic fracturing and production is implemented by history matching 3 different pads along with performing a sensitivity study to explore various well spacing and completion scenarios for the new development. Finally, a new pad is drilled and completed with new data acquired to re-assess the accuracy of the assumption made during the pre-drill planning phase.

The history matching of existing pads, constrained by previous data acquisition programs, allows to understand hydraulic fracture geometry and build some certainty on the predictability of the numerical modelling. While the increase of completion intensity shows an increase in recovery, the question is how the additional stimulation volume should be distributed to maximize economics. Field test and numerical modelling show that too large of a number of perforation clusters might become counter-productive because of the trade-off with a lower volume per cluster. Post-frac perforation imaging is run in the new pad to assess the hypothesis. Well spacing and distance to nearby Parent offset is evaluated pre-drill, and observations from the completion and flow-back of the new pad are used to challenge the initial assessment. Offset pressure monitoring is performed with the neighboring pads to evaluate the potential interferences. Ultimately actual production of the new pad is compared against the pre-drill forecast with a reasonable agreement.

This work illustrates the complete cycle of development from the pre-drill study and planning to the post-drill analysis of the actual results. The methodology and learnings target key considerations around field development and are applicable to most Operators in tight resources.
Quantifying Hydraulic Fracture Geometry and Morphology in a Multi-Cluster, Multi-Stage, Hydraulically Fractured Well Using Volume-to-First-Response Analysis
Authors: Sarvaramini E. , Miller P. , Burnham J. , Kivari A.
Published: January 2024

This study presents a novel analytical framework aimed at replicating hydraulic fracturing geometry at the cluster level within a multi-cluster, multi-stage, hydraulically fractured well. The fundamental Sneddon's equation is utilized to develop a mathematical solution that quantifies poroelastic stress shadow effects, taking into account both inter and intra-stage and intra-stage stress shadowing effects. The proposed approach integrates the fundamental solution of a blade-like fracture in the Perkins-Kern-Nordgren (PKN) model to determine fracture geometry, considering fluid partitioning between clusters resulting from stress shadowing and cluster competition. The Volume-to-First-Response (VFR) parameter obtained from fracturing diagnostics, such as Fiber Optics or Sealed Wellbore Pressure Monitoring serves as the basis for replicating the fracture geometry at the cluster level. The application of the proposed methodology is demonstrated using an example of a horizontal well that is monitored by Sealed Wellbore Pressure Monitoring in the Montney Formation, located in the region of the Northeast British Columbia, Canada. The proposed method offers a rapid and efficient approach to utilize the VFR parameter for replicating hydraulic fracturing geometry on a cluster-by-cluster basis, capturing the fracture half-length and fracture height.
Incorporating ε-Polylysine Hydrochloride, Tea Polyphenols, Nisin, and Ascorbic Acid into Edible Coating Solutions: Effect on Oxidation and Structure of Marinated Egg Proteins
Authors: Liu Jingbo , Han Lu , Cheng Dongkun , Li Shengrao , Chen Xiumei , Yu Yiding , Zhang Deju , Zhang Ting
Published: January 2024

Egg processing products lose their attraction due to protein oxidation and degradation, while the edible coating incorporating antioxidant and antimicrobial agents can address this deficit. In this work, chitosan (CS) in combination with ε-polylysine hydrochloride, tea polyphenols, nisin, and vitamin C (CS-NH-TC) was applied as a novel edible coating material for preserving marinated eggs for 20 days and its effects on egg quality, and protein oxidation and structure were determined. The CS-NH-TC coating exhibited the highest antioxidant and antibacterial activities among all coatings. Compared to uncoated marinated eggs (Sulfhydryl: 12.02 μmol/g, dityrosine: 6251.8, protein hydrophobicity: 3691, turbidity: 0.13 mg/mL, particle size: 342.13 nm), CS- and CS-NH-TC-coated eggs exhibited improved protein stability, as evidenced by a higher sulfhydryl (22.20 and 30.92 μmol/g) and lower dityrosine content (4722 and 4216), protein hydrophobicity (2891.72 and 865.75), turbidity (0.06 and 0.03 mg/mL), and particle size (292.06 and 256.57 nm). Additionally, edible coatings, especially CS-NH-TC coatings, were positively correlated with smaller intermolecular force changes in marinated eggs, corresponding to suppressed protein oxidation and conformational changes. Furthermore, CS-NH-TC-coated samples showed more stable protein secondary structures and less disorderly and aggregated protein microstructure, and markedly protected the color, texture, and sensory scores of marinated eggs. Our study could provide a theoretical basis for stabilizing the protein structure of egg processing products.
Metabolic activities of marine ammonia-oxidizing archaea orchestrated by quorum sensing
Authors: PEREIRA Olivier , Qin Wei , Galand Pierre E. , Debroas Didier , Lami Raphael , Hochart Corentin , Zhou Yangkai , Zhou Jin , Zhang Chuanlun
Published: January 2024

Ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) play crucial roles in marine carbon and nitrogen cycles by fixing inorganic carbon and performing the initial step of nitrification. Evaluation of carbon and nitrogen metabolism popularly relies on functional genes such as amoA and accA. Increasing studies suggest that quorum sensing (QS) mainly studied in biofilms for bacteria may serve as a universal communication and regulation mechanism among prokaryotes; however, this has yet to be demonstrated in marine planktonic archaea. To bridge this knowledge gap, we employed a combination of metabolic activity markers (amoA, accA, and grs) to elucidate the regulation of AOA-mediated nitrogen and carbon processes, including their interactions with the surrounding heterotrophic population. Through co-transcription investigations linking metabolic markers to potential key QS genes, we discovered that QS molecules could regulate AOA's carbon, nitrogen, and lipid metabolisms under different conditions. Interestingly, specific AOA ecotypes showed a preference for employing distinct QS systems and a distinct QS circuit involving typical population. Overall, our data demonstrate that QS orchestrates nitrogen and carbon metabolism, including the exchange of organic metabolites between AOA and surrounding heterotrophic bacteria, which has been previously overlooked in marine AOA research.
Real-time Fuzzy Position Control and Design of Star Parallel Robot
Authors: Aydın Muhammet
Published: January 2024

The goal of this study is to use fuzzy logic to develop and operate a specially made Star parallel robot inside a given working volume. The robot was constructed and outfitted with the required components after it was designed in Solidworks with a working volume of 20x20x20 cm³. Fuzzy logic was used in a Matlab/Simulink Real-time environment to accomplish real-time position control. The objective was to use reference values of x = 100 mm, y = 200 mm, and z = 480 mm to regulate the end effector's location. The robot demonstrated the efficacy of the control mechanism by reaching the intended values in 8.286 seconds with a maximum error of 0.08%, as per the results. The investigation shed light on the trajectory of the robot as well as the error convergence over time. This paper presents a unique design with a working volume for a Star parallel robot, introducing the first application of real-time fuzzy logic control. Furthermore, the Star parallel robot's forward kinematic equations were published in the literature for the first time.
ATG5-mediated keratinocyte ferroptosis promotes M1 polarization of macrophages to aggravate UVB-induced skin inflammation
Authors: Chen Xu , Xiao Ta , Liang Jinfeng , Li Min , Guo Yiming , Chen Sihan , Ke Yangying , Gao Xiang , Gu Heng
Published: January 2024

Autophagy participates in the regulation of ferroptosis. Among numerous autophagy-related genes (ATGs), ATG5 plays a pivotal role in ferroptosis. However, how ATG5-mediated ferroptosis functions in UVB-induced skin inflammation is still unclear. In this study, we confirm that the core ferroptosis inhibitor GPX4 is significantly decreased in human skin tissue exposed to sunlight. We report that ATG5 deletion in mouse keratinocytes strongly protects against UVB-induced keratinocyte ferroptosis and skin inflammation. Mechanistically, ATG5 promotes the autophagy-dependent degradation of GPX4 in UVB-exposed keratinocytes, which leads to UVB-induced keratinocyte ferroptosis. Furthermore, we find that IFN-γ secreted by ferroptotic keratinocytes facilitates the M1 polarization of macrophages, which results in the exacerbation of UVB-induced skin inflammation. Together, our data indicate that ATG5 exacerbates UVB-induced keratinocyte ferroptosis in the epidermis, which subsequently gives rise to the secretion of IFN-γ and M1 polarization. Our study provides novel evidence that targeting ATG5 may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for the amelioration of UVB-caused skin damage.
RNA Nanotherapeutics with Fibrosis Overexpression and Retention (FORT) for NASH Treatment
Authors: Miao Lei , Shan Xinzhu , Zhao Zhiqiang , Lai Pingping , Liu Yuxiu , Li Buyao , Ke Yubin , Jiang Hanqiu , Zhou Yilong , Li Wenzhe , Wang Qian , Qin Pengxia , Xue Yizhe , Zhang Zihan , Wei Chenlong , Ma Bin , Liu Wei , Luo Cong , Lu Xueguang , Lin Jiaqi , Shu Li , Jie Yin , Xian Xunde , Delcassian Derfogail , Ge Yifan
Published: January 2024

Fibrotic diseases, like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), pose challenges for targeted delivery and retention of therapeutic proteins due to increased extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Here we present a new approach to treat fibrotic diseases, termed “Fibrosis overexpression and retention (FORT)”. In this two-step strategy, we design 1) a retinoid derivative lipid nanoparticle (LNP) to enable specific mRNA overexpression in hepatic stellate cells, and 2) mRNA modifications which facilitate anchoring of therapeutic proteins in the fibrotic ECM. LNPs containing carboxyl retinoid derivatives, as opposed to alcohol or ester retinoid derivatives, effectively delivered mRNA, resulting in more than 10- fold enhancement of protein expression within the fibrotic liver. The carboxyl retinoid rearrangement on the LNP surface improved protein binding, sprouting, and membrane fusion. Therapeutic relaxin fusion proteins were then engineered with an endogenous collagen-binding domain. These fusion proteins exhibited increased retention in fibrotic lesions and reduced systemic side effects. In vivo, fibrosis-targeting LNPs encoding for mRNA fusion proteins demonstrated superior therapeutic efficacy in three clinically relevant NASH mouse models. This approach holds promise in chronic fibrotic diseases that are unsuited for direct injections of recombinant proteins.
The re-emergence of sexually transmissible multidrug resistant Shigella flexneri 3a, England, United Kingdom
Authors: Mason Lewis , Charles Hannah , Thorley Katie , Chong Charlotte , De Silva P. Malaka , Jenkins Claire , Baker Kate
Published: January 2024

Shigellosis is an enteric infection that transmits through the faecal-oral route, which can occur during sex between men who have sex with men (MSM). Between 2009 and 2014, an epidemic of sexually transmissible Shigella flexneri 3a occurred in England that subsequently declined. However, from 2018 to 2021, despite restrictions to control SARS-CoV-2 spread, S. flexneri 3a re-emerged. We explored possible drivers of the re-emergence by comparing host demographic features and pathogen genomics. The age and geographical distribution of cases in 2009–2014 (relative to 2018–2020) was comparable, with cases primarily among 35–64 year old men in London and the Southeast, a majority (54%) of which self-identified as gay or bisexual. Genomic analyses of 502 bacterial isolates showed that the majority (58%) of re-emerging MSM strains were a clonal replacement of the original lineage, with a reduced antimicrobial resistance profile. Specifically, more recent isolates had lost blaTEM−1 and erm(B), likely in line with shifting antimicrobial selection pressures. The absence of major changes in the pathogen or host demographics suggest that other factors, such as host immunity, may have driven the re-emergence of S. flexneri 3a and highlight the need for further work in the area.
Probing charge redistribution at the interface of self-assembled cyclo-P5 pentamers on Ag(111)
Authors: Pawlak Rémy , Chahib Outhmane , Yin Yulin , Liu Jung-Ching , Li Chao , Glatzel Thilo , Ding Feng , Yuan Qinghong , Meyer Ernst
Published: January 2024

Phosphorus pentamer (cyclo-P5-) ions are unstable in nature but can be synthesized at the Ag(111) surface. Unlike monolayer black phosphorous, little is known about their electronic properties when in contact with metal electrodes, although this is crucial for future applications. Here we characterize the atomic structure of cyclo-P5 assembled on Ag(111) using atomic force microscopy with functionalized tips and density functional theory. Combining force and tunneling spectroscopy, we find that a strong charge transfer induces an inward dipole moment at the cyclo-P5/Ag interface as well as the formation of an interface state. We probe the image potential states by field-effect resonant tunneling and quantify the increase of the local change of work function of 0.46 eV at the cyclo-P5 assembly. Our results suggest that the high-quality of the cyclo-P5/Ag interface might serve as a prototypical system for electric contacts in phosphorus-based semiconductor devices.
Teaching Practices of Islamic Education Teachers in Improving Critical Thinking of Rural Students
Authors: Osman Siti Fatihah , Ajmain@Jima’ain Muhammad Talhah , Awae Fareed , Rahman Siti Nur Hadis A , Malek Mohammad Dzarul Hafiz Dol , Aripin Syaima'a
Published: January 2024

Critical thinking is imperative for educators grappling with the 21st-century education system, particularly in teaching and learning (PdPc). Islamic Religious Education Teachers (IRET) predominantly employ static teaching methods, hindering the application of critical thinking in traditional lessons adhering to the syllabus. This study investigates how IRET integrates critical thinking into 21st-century learning skills (PAK-21), emphasizing sustainability. Employing a qualitative case study, it involves semi-structured interviews, observations of IRET teaching, and document analysis. Purposive sampling identifies seven IRET and 14 students. Nvivo 12.0 analyzes themes and sub-themes. Findings confirm IRET's practice of critical thinking in PAK-21, revealing challenges like time constraints, student attitudes, and rural facility limitations. IRET addresses these issues through innovation, diversified learning strategies, technology integration, knowledge amalgamation, staged teaching, student guidance, and role modelling. The study proposes a practical model for fostering critical thinking in PAK-21, meeting contemporary needs. Implications extend to Malaysian Ministry of Education policies and IRET practices, enhancing 21st-century teacher professionalism sustainably. This research advocates for an educational paradigm shift towards critical thinking, ensuring adaptability and relevance in a rapidly changing world.
Allergen-specific immunotherapy with Der p 1/2 mRNA vaccines alleviates house dust mite-induced allergic airway inflammation in a mouse model
Authors: Yin Jia , Li Junda , Yi Xilian , Guan Kai , xiaogang li
Published: January 2024

Allergen-specific immunotherapy is the only treatment that alters the natural course of allergic diseases and provides long-term therapeutic effects. Current treatments are based on crude allergen extracts, which contain various complex components and lack standardization, significantly affecting the safety and efficacy of AIT. With the success of mRNA vaccines, allergen-specific mRNA vaccines could prove to be a viable treatment approach. We screened major house dust mite allergens mRNA sequences in 293T cells and prepared three mRNA vaccines, then tested the safety and efficacy of AIT with these vaccines in a house dust mite-induced allergic airway mouse model. House dust mite-sensitized mice underwent subcutaneous immunotherapy with a house dust mite extract, mRNA vaccines, or placebo. Subsequent to the AIT and challenge, we assessed body temperature, allergen-induced ear swelling, specific immunoglobulin response, inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissues, and cellular immune responses in the spleen, mediastinal lymph nodes, and lungs. Der p 1- and Der p 2 mRNA were successfully expressed in 239T cells and induced specific IgG antibodies in mice. Body temperature monitoring revealed no signs of anaphylaxis following the first subcutaneous injection of either vaccine. Ear swelling response measurements indicated suppression of an early allergic reaction in Der p 2 mRNA-treated mice. All groups demonstrated the ability to suppress airway inflammation and eosinophilic infiltration. Strong differentiation of regulatory T cells and increased effective regulation of the Th1/Th2 balance were observed in mRNA-treated mice. These data suggest that mRNA vaccines represent a potential novel approach for the development of AIT treatments.
Identification and characterization of four novel xiaomi alleles to facilitate foxtail millet as a C4 model plant
Authors: Shan Meng , Duan Mengmeng , Shen Huimin , Wang Yujing , Zhang Yiru , Li Xukai , Han Yuanhuai , Yang Zhirong , Zhao Kai , Wang Xingchun
Published: January 2024

Diverse genetic background is essential for genetic analysis and functional genomics research in model plants. In this paper, four novel xiaomi-like mutants, named xiaomi3, xiaomi4, xiaomi5, and xiaomi6, were identified and characterized in different genetic backgrounds. These mutants exhibited an extremely early heading phenotype, with heading occurring around 30-40 days after sowing under natural long-day conditions. Significant reductions in plant height, leaf length, leaf width, panicle length, and panicle diameter were observed in the mutants compared to their corresponding wild-types. Notably, these mutants displayed diverse panicle architectures and hull colors, effectively preventing seed mixing between them. Subsequent investigation under controlled short-day and long-day conditions confirmed the significant early heading phenotype of the mutants. Molecular characterization revealed mutations in the Phytochrome C (SiPHYC) gene, including transposon insertions and a frame shift mutation, were responsible for the extremely early heading phenotype. RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis identified 19 differentially expressed genes associated with the extremely early heading phenotype. Additionally, genome-wide InDels and SNPs were identified, providing valuable resources for marker-assisted breeding and genetic studies. These findings advance our comprehension of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying SiPHYC mediated photoperiod flowering, and provide valuable resources that will push xiaomi as a C4 model plant.
Examining the relationship between problematic pornography use and mental health status among adolescents of Bangladesh
Authors: Rimti Fahmida Hoque , Ripon Rezaul Karim , Zubayer Abdullah Al , Rimu Fariha Hoque , Rahman Quazi Maksudur , Nailah Mustari Tabassum , Rahman Tareq , Sarkar Tanzeema Younus , Islam Md. Rafiqul , Das Tirthom , Nipun Khairul Islam , Sabuz Md. Shahriar , Akhter Ishita , Nandi Ashim Kumar , Ilman Ahnaf , Hawlader Mohammad Delwar Hossain
Published: January 2024

Background: Pornographic use has been associated with poor mental health consequences. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the relationship between problematic pornography use and mental health issues among adolescents in Bangladesh.
Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design to evaluate the relationship between problematic pornography uses with mental health status of adolescents in Bangladesh. The survey, which involved demographic questions and scales like the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), the General Anxiety Disorder-7, and the Brief Pornography Screen, included a sample of 601 teenagers. Data were analyzed using hierarchical linear regression models after the scales underwent step-by-step validation.
Results: It was discovered that boys scored higher (6.71) than girls (3.16), with the mean score for problematic pornography use (PPU) being 5.13. The Brief Pornography Scale revealed substantial relationships with anxiety (r=0.358), loneliness (r=0.382), and perceived social support (r=0.276). The structural modeling equation and hierarchical linear regression analysis showed that problematic use of pornography was associated with being male (r=0.26 to 0.45, p=0.001), higher monthly family cost (r=0.12 to 0.33, p=0.05), accessing pornography online (r=-0.14 to -0.27, p=0.05), consuming pornography through TV/DVD/downloaded videos (r=-0.44 to -0.55). However, the RSES scale did not reveal any correlation between problematic pornography consumption and self-esteem.
Conclusion: This study found significant relationship with problematic pornography use and mental health status of Bangladeshi adolescent. It emphasizes the significance of raising awareness about the danger of problematic pornography use. The results of this study highlight the necessity for focused interventions and educational initiatives addressing the possible hazards connected to this population's pornographic use.
Differences in outcomes of patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest treated with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation between day-time and night-time
Authors: Koguchi Hazuki , Takayama Wataru , Otomo Yasuhiro , Morishita Koji , Inoue Akihiko , Hifumi Toru , Sakamoto Tetsuya , Kuroda Yasuhiro
Published: January 2024

Although patients who underwent night-time resuscitation for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) had worse clinical outcomes than those who underwent day-time resuscitation, the differences between the outcomes of patients with OHCA who underwent extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) in the day-time and night-time remain unclear. We analyzed data from the Study of Advanced Life Support for Ventricular Fibrillation with Extracorporeal Circulation in Japan. Patients were categorized according to whether they received treatment during the day-time or night-time. The primary outcomes were survival to hospital discharge and favorable neurological outcome at discharge, and the secondary outcomes were estimated low-flow time, implementation time of ECPR, and complications due to ECPR. A multivariate logistic regression model adjusted for confounders was used for comparison. Among the 1,644 patients, the night-time patients had a significantly longer implementation time of ECPR and estimated low-flow time than the day-time patients, along with a significantly higher number of the complications than the day-time patients. However, the survival and neurologically favorable survival rates did not differ significantly between the groups. Thus, although patients who underwent ECPR at night had an increased risk of longer implementation time and complications, their clinical outcomes did not differ from those who underwent day-time ECPR.
Effects of Maintenance of Motor and Respiratory Performance With a Training Program in Inpatients Undergoing Bone Marrow Transplant
Authors: Bottani Chiara , Piazza Chiara
Published: January 2024

Background. Substantial physical and functional deconditioning are all potential adverse effects of bone marrow transplantation.
Objective. To observe how physiotherapy treatment during the hospitalization period can impact the maintenance of motor and respiratory performance in patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation.
Furthermore, it is interesting to evaluate how the patient is able to independently manage the proposed activity and consider it important for their health in the long term.
Methods. Patients underwent strength and endurance tests at the start, at the end of hospitalization, and two months after discharge. The patients were given a rehabilitation protocol to follow during the entire hospitalization. During this period, lasting approximately 21 days, the physiotherapist supervises the carrying out of the exercises twice a week. From discharge and for the two months of follow-up the patient carries out the proposed protocol independently.
Results. Forty-four patients were tested upon admission, discharge, and two months after admission. The distance covered in the walking test remains constant.
The strength of the upper limbs shows a slight flexion at discharge and recovery of the initial values after eight weeks. The power of the lower limbs remains constant during hospitalization and increases with remote control.
Conclusion. The results show that the proposal of moderate intensity physical activity can help maintaining motor and respiratory performance, in patients undergoing bone marrow trasplantation.
A novel COL2A1 mutation (c.1888G>T(p.Gly630Cys)) in a Chinese family with Avascular necrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Wei Zhuoqun , Zhu Liulong
Published: January 2024

Background: Familial avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) was a complex and complicated orthopedic disorder that cause changes in the structure of type II collagen due to a pathogenic mutation in the COL2A1 gene. With the damage to cartilage and bone, the disease gradually deteriorated into familial ANFH. The reports of familial ANFH were extremely rare. Besides, misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis are extremely likely to occur due to the difficulty of diagnosis.
Case presentation: A 54-year-old woman developed soreness and pain in her right hip five months before admission without any apparent cause. The above symptoms suddenly worsened after four-month, and she was diagnosed with avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH). The radiograph and MRI images (anteroposterior view) results of the pelvis and hip joints of the patient showed ANFH in stage II (based on the standard table of ARCO).
whole-exome sequencing and analysis were conducted with the consent of family members. After Carrying out whole exon sequencing and analysis and selecting candidate gene mutations for ANFH in chr12. Then, we sequenced exonic regions of the type II collagen gene (COL2A1) from patients with inherited and sporadic forms of ANFH.
The mutation in COL2A1 gene on chr12 was determined by analyzing and examining candidate genes. A C→A transition in COL2A1 gene was detected in II-7, III-11, III-13, IV-5 and IV-6 family members. This transition caused the replacement of glycine with cysteine in (Gly-X-Y)n region. Sanger sequencing was performed to verify the above mutation and the results are consistent with the above conclusion.
Conclusions: This case was from China. Findings from imaging showed that there were significant differences between familial ANFH and general ANFH. These differences were most likely due to unique phenotypes resulting from pathogenic mutations in the COL2A1 gene. The result found that a new mutation type c.1888G>T(p.Gly630Cys) may cause significant distortion of Collagen Triple-Helix Structure, which had not been reported previously. This study revealed a novel and potential mutation leading to femoral head necrosis, which provides an imaging and molecular basis for the diagnosis and timely treatment in additional members of the family.
Histopathological evaluation of PYGO2 expression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Khales Sima Ardalan , kalat Habibeh Rahmani , Soleymani Sedigheh , Jafarian Amir Hossein , Forghanifard Mohammad Mahdi
Published: January 2024

Background: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the world's deadliest cancer diseases. Deregulation of developmental signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin is frequently implicated in a wide range of human cancers. The present study was designed to analyze the expression of the Pygopus2 (PYGO2) protein, the main co-activator of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, in ESCC tissues and evaluate its probable correlation with clinic-pathological features of patients.
Materials and Methods: In this study, PYGO2 protein expression was assessed in tumors and margin normal tissues from 50 ESCC patients using immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis.
Results: Significant PYGO2 overexpression was observed in %94 tumor cells. Interestingly, PYGO2 expression was significantly correlated with the depth of tumor invasion (p= 0.021). Considering the significant expression of PYGO2 protein in ESCC cells and its correlation with tumor invasion.
Conclusion: This protein may be used as a biomarker for diagnosis of invasive ESCC, as well as a putative therapeutic target to inhibit ESCC invasiveness.