bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Volunteer Data Warehouse
Authors: Sakka Amir , Bimonte Sandro , Pinet Francois , Sautot Lucile
Published: August 2021

With the maturity of crowdsourcing systems, new analysis possibilities appear where volunteers play a crucial role by bringing the implicit knowledge issued from practical and daily experience. At the same time, data warehouse and OLAP systems represent the first citizen of decision-support systems. They allow analyzing a huge volume of data according to the multidimensional model. The more the multidimensional model reflects the decision-makers' analysis needs, the more the DW project is successful. However, when volunteers are involved in the design of DWs, existing DW design methodologies present some limitations. In this work, the authors present the main features of volunteer data warehouse (VDW) design, and they study the main existing DW design methodology to find out how they can contribute to fulfil the features needed by this particular DW approach. To provide a formal framework to classify existing work, they provide a study of differences between classical DW users and volunteers. The paper also presents a set of open issues for VDW.
Predicating Smartphone Users' Behaviour Towards a Location-Aware IoMT-Based Information System
Authors: Keikhosrokiani Pantea
Published: August 2021

Heart disease is the number one killing disease in the world. It is imperative to use IoMT-based information system called iHeart that tracks patient's blood pressure, heart rate, and current location. To design such a system, users' needs must be recognized. Therefore, this research proceeds with conducting a survey among 223 smartphone users in Penang, Malaysia and Isfahan, Iran to predict behavioural intention to use of iHeart before its full implementation. The theoretical frameworks of iHeart intention to use is set up based upon behavioural change theories. The results were analysed by using SmartPLS which indicate the different acceptance rates among two nationalities. It is concluded that cultural differences and technology advancements impact on the adoption of iHeart from smartphone users' points of view. The results of this study can be useful for healthcare professionals to evade culturally related problems for future projects.
Factors That Influence the Adoption of E-Wallets by the Malaysians
Authors: Moorthy Krishna , Chiang Ooi Yin , Kamarudin Aufa Amalina , T'ing Loh Chun , Mei Chin Yoon , Johanthan Sonia
Published: August 2021

E-wallet has become a new payment method in the global trend, replacing cash payment gradually. Malaysia's national bank has set out objectives to move to a cashless society with electronic payment system in its Financial Sector Blueprint 2011-2020. Hence, this research aims to investigate the drivers that affect the behavioural intention of consumers towards the adoption of e-wallets in Malaysia. Performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence are the three factors adopted from the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model (UTAUT) to demonstrate the intention of consumers on e-wallet adoption. Additionally, perceived security and incentives are integrated into the research model to examine the factors that affect the e-wallet adoption. Four hundred fifty questionnaires were collected and analysed. The results show that all the factors have positive relationship with intention of e-wallet adoption. The research findings contribute to various parties such as the academicians, researchers, service providers, financial institutions, and the government.
Selection of filamentous fungi that are resistant to the herbicides atrazine, glyphosate and pendimethalin
Authors: Bravim Nara Priscila Barbosa , Alves Anatércia Ferreira , Orlanda José Fábio França , Silva Patricia Barbosa Rodrigues
Published: August 2021

The objective of the present study was to isolate fungi from agricultural soils and evaluate fungal growth in culture medium contaminated with atrazine, glyphosate and pendimethalin. Filamentous fungi were isolated from agricultural soils and cultured in a modified culture medium containing 0, 10, 20, 50, and 100 μg mL-1 atrazine, glyphosate and pendimethalin for 14 days at 28°C. The fungi that presented optimal and satisfactory growth were plated in Sabouraud culture medium with 4% dextrose and containing the herbicides at concentrations of 0, 10, 20, 50, and 100 μg mL-1 for seven days at 28°C. The mean mycelial growth values were submitted to analysis of variance and the Tukey test (p < 0.05%) for comparison and relative growth determination, and maximum inhibition rates were calculated. The isolated fungi Aspergillus fumigatus, Fusarium verticillioides and Penicillium citrinum were shown to be resistant to atrazine, glyphosate and pendimethalin. F. verticillioides showed higher mean mycelial growth in the culture media contaminated with atrazine and glyphosate than the other two fungi. In the culture medium contaminated with pendimethalin, F. verticillioides, and A. fumigatus presented the highest mean mycelial growth values.
Estratégias argumentativas em tempos de pandemia: construção de sentidos em capas da revista Veja
Authors: Zamoner Daiane , Ribeiro Elaine , Freitas Ernani Cesar de
Published: August 2021

Com base nos aportes teóricos da Teoria da Argumentação na Língua (TAL) em sua fase mais recente a Teoria dos Blocos Semânticos (TBS), este estudo tem por objetivo analisar os sentidos construídos discursivamente em textos de capas da revista Veja, por meio de blocos semânticos expressos por encadeamentos argumentativos do tipo donc (DC) e pourtant (PT). A fim de realizar a análise do corpus, tomamos como base a Teoria da Argumentação na Língua (TAL) desenvolvida por Oswald Ducrot e colaboradores (Anscombre & Ducrot, 1994, Carel & Ducrot, 1999, 2005, Ducrot, 1988, 2002) especialmente no que diz respeito à fase atual desenvolvida por Marion Carel (Carel & Ducrot, 1999, 2005, Carel & Gomes, 2019), a Teoria dos Blocos Semânticos (TBS). Essa teoria tem como premissa que o sentido de uma entidade linguística está constituído por certos discursos que essa entidade evoca, denominados encadeamentos argumentativos unidos por um conector em DC (donc) ou em PT (pourtant). Este estudo caracteriza-se como exploratório e bibliográfico com abordagem qualitativa. O corpus selecionado é composto por textos de duas capas da revista Veja veiculadas durante a pandemia do COVID-19. Os resultados da análise permitiram observar que a TAL, em sua versão atual TBS, mostra-se eficaz ao auxiliar na interpretação de enunciados com múltiplos sentidos possíveis e nem sempre explícitos, posto que o sentido argumentativo de enunciados é construído discursivamente por blocos semânticos.
Characterization of pseudo-fruits of Hovenia dulcis T. at different maturation stages and drying methods
Authors: Sehn Georgia Ane Raquel , Schaefer Sabrina Vicentini , Schmiele Marcio , Silva Bibiana  Paim da , Barcia Milene Teixeira , Rodrigues Rosane  da Silva
Published: August 2021

The vast majority of fruits and unprocessed vegetables, have a very short shelf life, mainly due to its high-water activity. Drying technology is an effective process, used to increase the shelf life of these products. It also can provide an effective method of consumption of fruits in food products. In this study, the influence of the maturation stage and drying method on the phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities of Japanese grape pseudo-fruits (Hovenia dulcis T.) were studied. The centesimal composition, reducing sugars and nonreducing sugars, ratio, color, phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity by oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) of the unprocessed pseudo-fruits, at different maturation stages (immature, in maturation and mature), were analyzed. Two drying methods were employed in the pseudo-fruits (oven with air circulation and freeze drying) obtaining flour from which moisture content, instrumental color, phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity were determined. The unprocessed pseudo-fruits of Japanese grape showed significant content of phenolic compounds at the early stages of maturation and high antioxidant capacity when mature (at the final stages of maturation). In addition, they showed a high content of fibers and sugars, and can be used as raw material in the food industry. After dehydration, the freeze-drying process provided a more stable color, because this process minimizes the enzymatic browning reactions, and preserved a greater number of phenolic compounds. The antioxidant activity, however, showed to be associated with the drying method, being higher in the flour obtained from lyophilized immature pseudo-fruits.
Drying of foods under intermittent supply of microwave energy: proposal for a mathematical model
Authors: Teleken Jhony , Porciúncula Barbara Danielle Almeida , Teleken Joel Gustavo , Carciofi Bruno Augusto Mattar
Published: August 2021

Intermittent microwave drying improves the quality of the dehydrated product, because reduces the effect of microwave hot spots. Mathematical modelling is essential to understand the physics of this drying process and to optimize the operation conditions. However, there are few modelling studies about intermittent microwave drying. This work proposed a mathematical model based on mass balances of liquid and vapor water in which a non-equilibrium formulation described the water phase change. The microwave heating, described by Lambert’s law, was accounting as source term on the thermal energy conservation equation. The numerical solution used the finite element method, and the experimental drying of potato samples validated the simulated drying. The values of moisture content and temperature obtained by numerical solution of the model showed good agreement with experimental data. From this, it was observed the presence of three periods in the drying kinetics: an initial heating phase almost without drying, follow by a phase with constant drying rate, and final a decrease of drying rate and temperature increasement. The model results showed that the interior temperature was higher than the surface temperature of sample, and there was water evaporation inside the potato. In additional, the gradients of temperature were reduced due to intermittency of the microwave power. This redistribution of temperature could contribute to the improvement of product quality during drying.
The Effects of Floor Structures on the Masonry Walls of Multistorey Building
Authors: Vejvara Luděk
Published: August 2021

In this contribution, the determination of loading forces in the joint of the floor structure and masonry is presented. The point is a subject being accompanied by designing multistorey masonry buildings.The problem of this apparently simple assignment is not so much a calculation of values from characteristic loading of both floors and walls or an actual numerical calculation of masonry carrying capacity, but a correct stipulation of the resultant force location at the spot under the floor structure.In the paper, the resting types of reinforced concrete floor structure on the masonry, influences on the resultant force magnitude, its position to the mid-masonry and consequences for the masonry construction design. The resting examples of floor structures, exhibitions of calculation, and schemas are given. Auxiliary tables and charts to specify the moments in the head of masonry were made up. In conclusion, a recommendation to the optimal span of floor structure destined for masonry construction is stated.
Assessment of Cores Using Electroacoustic Methods
Authors: Hüblová Sabina , Hrabová Kristýna , Láník Jaromír , Cikrle Petr
Published: August 2021

The paper focuses on the assessment of structures using the methods described in the new edition of the ČSN EN 1371 standard. An experiment will be conducted on cores taken from reinforced concrete columns under compressive loading up to the ultimate resistance. The concrete used to make the column should correspond to old concrete used in the second half of the 20th century. The column will be made with a deliberately created defect - such as stratification or bad compaction of the concrete. When the column is damaged, different degrees of damage to the concrete along its height occur. This can be detected by a thorough examination of cores through the ultrasonic and resonance methods.
Determination of a Suitable Moment for Formwork Removal from a Concrete Structure Using Rebound Hammer Test Methods
Authors: Misák Petr , Kocáb Dalibor , Cikrle Petr
Published: August 2021

Determining the compressive strength of concrete in the early stages of ageing has been an increasingly relevant topic in recent years, particularly with regard to the safe removal of formwork from a structure or its part. The compressive strength of concrete which designates safe removal of formwork without damaging the structure can be referred to as "stripping strength". It is undoubtedly beneficial to be able to determine the moment of safe formwork removal in a non-destructive manner, i.e. without compromising the structure. Modern rebound hammer test methods seem to be a suitable instrument with which it is possible to reduce the length of technological breaks associated with concrete ageing to a minimum, and consequently, reduce the total cost of the construction. However, the use of these methods presents a number of challenges. As many conducted experiments have shown, there is no single conversion relationship (regression model) between non-destructive rebound hammer test methods and compressive strength. It is therefore advisable to always create a unique conversion relationship for each individual concrete. In addition, it must be noted that conventional regression analysis methods operate with 50% reliability. In construction testing, however, the most common is the so-called characteristic value, which is defined as a 5% quantile. This value is therefore determined with 95% reliability. This paper describes the construction of a so-called "characteristic curve", which can be used to estimate the compressive strength of concrete in a structure using rebound hammer test methods with 95% reliability. Consequently, the values obtained from the characteristic curve can be easily used for practical applications.
Concrete in the Environment of Agricultural Buildings
Authors: Hubáček Adam , Hela Rudolf
Published: August 2021

The construction of biogas plants, clamp silos and buildings for cattle housing is significantly increasing with current agricultural production. During the building of new agricultural structures or the remediation of existing ones, it is necessary to consider the level of resistance of the used concrete that is to be exposed to highly aggressive chemical environments. The objective of the article is to describe a method of design, production and testing of concretes intended for these types of agricultural constructions. Particular attention will be paid to the properties of fresh and hardened concrete and its durability when laid in silage leachates and in conditions of low pH.
Fracture Resistance of AAAS Composites with Ceramic Precursor
Authors: Rozsypalová Iva , Daněk Petr , Rovnaníková Pavla , Keršner Zbyněk
Published: August 2021

The paper deals with selected alkali-activated aluminosilicate (AAAS) composites based on ceramic precursors in terms of their characterization by mechanical fracture parameters. Composites made of brick dust as a precursor and an alkaline activator with a silicate modulus of Ms = 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.6 were investigated. The filler employed with one set of composites was quartz sand, while for the other set it was crushed brick. The test specimens had nominal dimensions of 40 × 40 × 160 mm and were provided with notches at midspan of up to 1/3 of the height of the specimens after 28 days. 6 samples from each composite were tested. The specimens were subjected to three-point bending tests in which force vs. displacement (deflection at midspan) diagrams (F–d diagrams) and force vs. crack mouth opening (F–CMOD) diagrams were recorded. After the correction of these diagrams, static modulus of elasticity, effective fracture toughness, effective toughness and specific fracture energy values were determined using the Effective Crack Model and the Work-of-Fracture method. After the fracture experiments, informative compressive strength values were determined from one of the parts. All of the evaluations included the determination of arithmetic means and standard deviations. The silicate modulus values and type of filler of the AAAS composites significantly influenced their mechanical fracture parameters.
Highly Efficient Renewal of A Hydropower Plant Pipe Coating
Authors: Palatka Petr
Published: August 2021

Many pumped storage hydropower plants have long large diameter steep steel pipes (penstocks) between reservoirs. The coating inside such pipes protects the surface from corrosion. Lifetime of the coating is limited and it has to be renewed several times during expected lifetime of the hydropower plant. The coating renovation was a manual process until now. A modification of the process is proposed. The modification of the process includes changes in the technological steps as well robotization of these steps. The new process provides more stability in the quality of coating and eliminates unnecessary presence of people in confined spaces. Using a robot also makes the renewal of the coating much faster. Therefore, it can bring a lot of profit to the owner by shortening the production downtime and re-starting production significantly earlier in comparison to the existing renovation process.

The new process was verified in a pilot project at a selected pumped storage hydropower plant and the results were evaluated in cooperation with the hydropower plant owner. Laboratory tests of samples have shown that the coating has two times higher adhesion to the substrate in comparison to the manual coating application. The results also showed that the owner can save around 600 days of downtime on each of both penstocks when using this new process. This is a clear economical advantage which each owner of the infrastructure can understand easily.
Fracture Mechanics Assessment of Cracks in Areas of Large Scale Plasticity in Subsea HPHT Equipment
Authors: Kulkarni Mandar , Lopez Carlos , Kluk Daniel , Chappell John
Published: August 2021

Subsea HPHT components may be evaluated utilizing a fracture mechanics-based approach as per guidelines in API RP 17TR8 and ASME Section VIII Division 3. Typically, the assessment is performed based on methods described in API 579-1/ASME FFS-1 and BS7910. The analysis is performed to determine critical flaw sizes and estimate the fatigue life of a growing crack as a means of establishing inspection intervals for the equipment. In most cases, the assessment is based on a linear elastic fracture mechanics approach. The effect of plasticity is generally included via the use of a failure assessment diagram (FAD); however, even with this approach the effect of plastic strain around the crack is not explicitly considered. The assessment standards do not provide clear guidance for cases involving a crack which is located within a region of large-scale plastic strain. For these cases, API 579, Annex 9G.5 recommends utilizing a driving force method whereby the J-integral is directly evaluated from an elastic-plastic finite element model.

This paper presents such an approach. A simplified representative geometry is considered for this study. A region of a stress concentration, such as is typically encountered near an internal radius is considered. Such a region can potentially show localized plasticity. J-integral is calculated by explicitly modeling a series of cracks of increasing depth through this zone of plasticity and the results are compared to the different methodologies described in API 579-1/ASME FFS-1 and BS7910. Cracks are modeled both completely and partially enveloped within the plastic zone.

Results are summarized and compared, highlighting the key differences between different analysis approaches with the aim of identifying the most conservative assessment method for different crack sizes. Additionally, the effect of large-scale plasticity on the crack driving force is determined relative to similar conditions without plasticity. The results indicate that for cracks lying within the regions of localized plasticity, using an API579 Level 2 approach coupled with extracting elastic-plastic through wall stresses from an uncracked geometry may result in significant under prediction of the driving force. Conversely, extracting linear elastic stresses from an uncracked geometry may significantly over predict the driving force and may prove too conservative for determining acceptable crack sizes.

This paper presents a comprehensive comparison of different analysis approaches used for evaluating cracks in subsea equipment. The results indicate that, for HPHT equipment with increased safety implications, a detailed elastic plastic fracture mechanics evaluation of the cracked geometry should be performed for cases in which localized plasticity is expected to occur.
Rational Approach to Assess the Effect of Corrosion on Stiffened Panel Buckling and Ultimate Capacity
Authors: Joshi Nikhil Prakash , Brewer Jonathan Lewis , Rose Christopher John
Published: August 2021

During the annual In-Service Inspection of a spar hull, several regions of pitting corrosion on the upper portion of the north and south moon pool external wall plating were identified. The moon pool walls are constructed as typical stiffened panel structures. Visual, ultrasonic (UT), and pulsed eddy current (PEC) inspections indicated regions of corrosion with roughly 40% to 70% averaged localized wall loss. This paper discusses the analytical assessment of the structure to determine the effect of the corrosion on the structural integrity of the moon pool wall and any similar structural panel.

To determine the impact of corrosion on the stiffened panel integrity, a finite element (FE) based analysis approach is used to perform a comparative assessment of the "as-built" and "corroded" configuration of the moon pool wall. The nominal plate and stiffener thicknesses are modeled in the "as-built" configuration; whereas, the measured plate thickness from the inspection is modeled in the "corroded" configuration. The structure is subjected to design loads based on the storm damaged design condition. The analysis is performed by uniformly increasing the applied loads until failure occurs, maintaining a constant ratio between the nominal loads. Two different analyses are performed as a part of the strength assessment: (1) a linear-elastic eigenvalue analysis to estimate the elastic buckling capacity and mode shapes of the structure and (2) an elastic-plastic post-buckling analysis to estimate the ultimate capacity of the structure. In addition, the results from the linear-elastic eigenvalue analysis are compared to the results from analytical buckling calculations.

The analysis results indicate that the corrosion reduces the elastic plate buckling capacity significantly. However, the overall capacity of the stiffened panel is not significantly reduced. Therefore, from a global strength perspective, the stiffened panel remains acceptable in its corroded condition. The upper portion of the moon pool wall is typically fatigue insensitive in spars. Therefore, the effect of the corrosion wall loss on the fatigue performance was not assessed.

Since there is limited guidance in design and assessment codes for assessing corroded stiffened panels, this approach can be used to address future stiffened panel corrosion wall loss. In addition, this method allows for inclusion of future corrosion allowance, if applicable. Determining the capacity of corroded panels using FEA-based numerical methods, like those described in this paper, allows the operators to manage their risks, repair costs, and inspection frequency by determining the actual capacity of the damaged components. This allows the operators to determine the appropriate mitigation measures based on a quantitative risk calculation.
Qualification of Polymer Materials for Dynamic Riser Service
Authors: McCord Craig , Jones Colin
Published: August 2021

Polymer liners have been used extensively in water injection flowlines for several years, however, have only recently gained traction as a corrosion protection solution for Steel Catenary Risers and other similar rigid pipe risers as the industry moves to more novel systems.

In order to qualify a system for a dynamic service environment such as a riser, it is important to understand the system's fatigue response and characteristics to ensure that all potential failure modes are addressed. This is typically accomplished for rigid pipes via full scale resonance fatigue testing whereby a test specimen is subjected to a representative fatigue environment and point of failure determined.

Rigid pipe specimens with polymer liner installed have been trialed and reported previously. In this programme, the full-scale test strings demonstrated that all the lined system components can withstand the standard fatigue performance test curves. However, it did not confirm the boundary conditions for failure of the polymer liner, as failure of the metallic host pipe always occurred first.

A similar method can be used to test the polymer material in isolation, however given the strain levels involved and the material's inherent fatigue resistance, it was expected that the duration of testing would be impractical. It was therefore necessary to implement a test method that allowed for identification of the polymer boundary conditions within a reasonable time frame, whilst also allowing for comparison with existing fatigue testing.

In order to achieve this, a small-scale fatigue testing programme was setup in line with ISO 18489, whereby pre-notched dumbbell samples would be prepared and tested, firstly at 23°C but also at 0°C and 60°C to not only allow comparison with existing full-scale data, but also allow determination of suitability across the full temperature range expected in service.

Testing results have demonstrated that the polymer's fatigue resistance far exceeds that of the steel pipe, even with the inclusion of pre-initiated cracking in the samples. The testing was able to provide key data on parameters and their influence on the material's fatigue life such as temperature, stress and strain.

Further to this, an additional test programme was setup to evaluate the influence that the vertical orientation of the riser has on the polymer liner system. In this test programme, the interaction force between the steel pipe and polymer liner was assessed to establish the necessary design criteria to ensure that the interaction force always exceeds the vertical self-weight of the liner.

Testing results demonstrated that the steel pipe/liner interaction force exceeded the equivalent self-weight of the liner eliminating potential failure modes associated with creep. As a result, the vertical orientation of the riser does not present a risk to the integrity of the liner system.
A Novel Approach for Designing Boltless Connectors - Example on a New Drilling Riser Connector
Authors: Roguet Eleonore , Persent Emmanuel , Averbuch Daniel
Published: August 2021

A new method which uses elastic and elasto-plastic Finite Element analyses is developed to design a double breech-block type connector. All relevant criteria proposed by API16F are fulfilled. In addition, plastic and bearing criteria have been added to support the use of lugs for load transfer in the connector.

The proposed methodology has been applied and validated through experimental tests at different scales and in particular on laboratory specimens and small-scaled connectors. Based on these last structural tests, a safety factor of almost 8 was obtained for the design method on small-scaled connectors.

Prototype tests at scale 1:1 allowed the methodology to be fully validated and a new product to be qualified. Certification bodies validated the whole design process, the employed methodology and the new connector.
Reelability Assessment of Adhesively Bonded Mechanically Lined Pipe
Authors: Toguyeni Grégory Alexandre , Fernandez-Vega Jens , Jones Richard , Gallegillo Martin , Banse Joachim
Published: August 2021

A solution to prevent liner wrinkling in Mechanically Lined Pipes (MLP) with a standard 3.0mm thick liner during reeling, without the use of pressurisation, has been developed in the form of the GluBi® lined pipe. The liner being adhesively bonded to the outer pipe, its integrity is maintained despite the global plastic strain applied by the installation method. This new linepipe product has been qualified for offshore use through testing accompanied by a detailed Finite Element Analysis programme to fully capture the pipe and adhesive behaviours under and range of temperatures and loading conditions.

The objective of this analysis program was to investigate the reelability of the GluBi® pipe. The instalability was defined as the capability of the pipe to tolerate cyclic plastic deformation representative of a typical pipeline installation by reeling without the formation of wrinkling of the CRA liner, and to maintain the integrity of the adhesive layer, particularly near the weld overlay at the pipe ends.

Important areas of the GluBi® pipe design are the pipe extremities, particularly the transition between the liner and the weld overlay length. A detailed Finite Element model of the pipe was created. It captured all stages of the pipe manufacturing: pipe lining, hydrostatic expansion, adhesive curing, overlay weld deposition and reeling simulation. The pipe modelled was 312.1mm OD × 19.7mm WT SMLS 450 with a nominal 3.0mm thick Alloy 625 liner. An important validation work was performed to obtain a precise material response of the adhesive layer between liner and outer pipe. The adhesive mechanical properties were thus assessed in shearing and peeling over a range of temperatures covering all possible manufacturing and installation conditions. The model's elements and adhesive property modelling were validated against physical test results.

Sensitivity analyses were done on the adhesive curing temperature, the geometry of the adhesive transition between the liner and the overlay weld at the pipe ends and on the liner thickness. The model was subjected to reeling simulation corresponding to Subsea 7's reel-lay vessels. The liner's integrity post reeling was assessed according to a range of acceptance criteria. These studies made it possible to establish parameter ranges for the safe installation of the linepipe.
LNG Loading Lines High Surge Analysis
Authors: Abdul Talip Noor Arnida , Zainal Abidin Shahrul Azman , M Ali Ir Fadzrul Izwan
Published: August 2021

Proper design of LNG loading lines and verification of emergency shutdown (ESD) interlock systems are critical in ensuring overall safety of the LNG facility. During an emergency, ESD interlock is activated with ESD valves closure initiated simultaneously with all loading pumps trip and the kickback valves open. During the ESD valves closure, the pipeline can be exposed to a risk of high surge pressures exerted onto the wall. A pressure surge or liquid hammering phenomenon in piping systems can be caused by a fluid in motion forced to stop or change direction suddenly (rapid momentum change) and also due to cavitation effect. Cavitation is caused by the formation and instantaneous collapse of vapour bubbles. The collapsing bubbles exert severe localized impact forces that can result in pressure surges. This paper discusses the methodology used to evaluate any potential occurrence of surge and the peak pressure associated with it, using several case studies for analysis. This paper also shares best practice identified from the study to facilitate with safe operations at an LNG loading facility.
Making LNG Affordable as a Means to Monetize Associated Gas Offshore
Authors: Dimbour Jean-Philippe , Gadelle Dominique , Laflotte Benoit , Disaro Lorenzo
Published: August 2021

Today, the gas associated with oil production is becoming an environmental concern for existing fields when it is flared. There are substantial quantities of associated gas still burnt at fields every year.

When offshore, the reinjection of such associated gas into the reservoir is not always technically feasible, it is expensive, and may become a blocker for new offshore oil developments.

Associated gases can be monetized in the form of LNG produced directly offshore, it can become an enabler of new oil projects, and a means to reduce CO2 emissions and meet commitments.

LNG production at sea can be achieved at a competitive CAPEX, by using an innovative mega-module concept.

Furthermore, when treating rich associated gases, the production and export of high-value liquid by-products - LPG and condensates and even possibility ethane - can greatly improve the economics of LNG production itself by creating additional revenues, at a marginal increment cost thanks to the integrated process and utilities functionalities, while keeping the possibility to adjust to several LNG market specifications.
Assessment of the Impact of Wax Deposition in a Pre-Salt Project
Authors: Pinheiro Nathalie Carvalho , Pinho Sergio Paulo Gomes
Published: August 2021

Despite pre-salt fields in Brazil usually having high production per well, one of the areas presents a reservoir with low permoporosity, which results in small flowrates with fluid temperatures during production below the one that is critical for wax deposition. The operations commonly used to remove the wax deposits are diesel soaking and pigging, which brings production losses and OPEX increase. Thus, the economic analysis should consider these events reducing the operational efficiency of production.

To evaluate the production drop due to wax deposition, it was necessary to perform a loop test to determine the wax growth throughout time. With a multiphase simulator, it is possible to choose the deposition model and the diffusion coefficient that best fits the analyzed fluid. However, one of the limitations of this first analysis is the lack of data to determine the effect of the shear stripping, as the test is performed under a laminar flow. As this term plays an important role in wax growth, it was necessary to add to the simulation model the shear coefficient fitted from another pre-salt field. With this information, it will be possible to make a more reliable evaluation of the impact of wax deposition, increasing the confidence in the production curve, OPEX and NPV of the full field project.

This paper shows the methodology that has been applied to evaluate the impact of wax deposition in pre-salt fields. It presents the deposition model, and its coefficients used to fit the multiphase transient models to a pre-salt field.
Full Generic Qualification of Nylon 12 Carbon Fiber Composite for Dynamic Thermoplastic Composite Pipe and Hybrid Flexible Pipe Applications
Authors: Schuett Carsten , Paternoster Alexandre
Published: August 2021

Composite structures are used as corrosion insensitive load bearing reinforcement in dynamic Thermoplastic Composite Pipe (TCP) and Hybrid Flexible Pipe (HFP) applications. The qualification of such structures can follow different strategies: product level versus material characterization. DNVGL-ST-F119 proposes a generic knowledge-based approach based on a testing pyramid. The pyramid allows a generic material characterization for a large number of conditions.

Testing of dedicated specimens in constant media exposure measures the actual properties and changes of the material. Regression data is obtained for end-of-life properties. Simulations can be conducted using these properties to determine performance of the product in any state and condition and validate any load cases through classical stress combination.

The characterization for VESTAPE® Nylon 12 Carbon Fiber thermoplastic composite (CF-PA12) covers all failure mechanisms for matrix, fiber and interface in static, dynamic and stress rupture mode for virgin, fully hydrocarbon saturated and aged to end of life in saturated condition. Each condition assessment is carried out in complete temperature dependency for subzero, room temperature, intermediate and maximum use temperature of 176°F (80°C). Fatigue testing covers runtimes of 106 cycles whereas stress rupture assessment exceeds 12,500h which corresponds to almost 1.5 years. With dense data populations for both regression curves and static test results the coefficient of variation is controlled. All characterization logic and data are analyzed for validity and certified by the official body of the DNV-GL.

The material characterization enables simulation of a variety of application designs in predictive engineering and a simplified study is made for a dynamic gas injection jumper to demonstrate relevant occurring load cases.

Utilizing all data and approaches allows to define the overall application envelope of the material. For the case of the thermoplastic composite of CF-PA12 it covers static flowlines, dynamic jumpers, service lines up to dynamic risers in sour crude service up to 176°F (80°C). The knowledge-based approach allows for economic design in engineering cases without compromising safety.
Sociodemographic Determinants of Tuberculosis Burden in India
Authors: Roy Manas Pratim
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

Tuberculosis (TB), the eighth common cause of disability-adjusted life years in India, is a major problem for public health. Social factors such as economic condition and smoking have been implicated among the risk factors for TB. This paper reports the role of different sociodemographic factors in deciding the burden of TB in India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In an ecological approach, data from major national surveys were analyzed: National Family Health Survey 4, Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2, and India: Health of the Nation’s States. Spearman correlation coefficient and multivariate linear regression were used for state-wise analysis.

RESULTS:

North India seems to be the major contributor to the national TB burden. Several factors such as the use of clean fuel, tobacco use, and economic condition were seen to impact TB burden. On multivariate analysis, only clean fuel was found to be significant (r = −0.540, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION:

A multi-pronged approach for appropriate policy decisions for focussing on sociodemographic factors is the need of the hour for reducing the mortality burden due to TB.
A Comparative Study on the Association of Hypothyroidism with Adhesive Capsulitis of Shoulder
Authors: Greeshma AD , Sankaran Ravi , Joseph Narikunnel G. , Surendran Kutickat
Published: August 2021

Objective:

Adhesive capsulitis (AC) is a pathologic condition characterized by pain and limitation of shoulder movements. Thyroid dysfunction often accompanies musculoskeletal disorders, and undiagnosed hypothyroidism can delay response to treatment outcomes. Early diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism in patients with AC of shoulder could help to improve pain and disability. This study was done to assess the association of hypothyroidism with AC of shoulder and to find the correlation of severity of pain and disability in AC with hypothyroidism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this case–control study, patients who attended PMR OPD during a period of 2 years with pain and limitation of shoulder movements satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included as cases and patients without AC as controls. Fifty-seven patients were selected as cases and 114 patients as controls. Serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level and free tetraiodothyronine level were estimated. Shoulder range of motion (ROM) measurement and radiographs were performed in cases, and the TSH values obtained were compared with the severity of ROM restriction, Visual Analog Scale score, and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index Scale (SPADI) score. Statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS 20 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA).

RESULTS:

Among cases, 8 (14%) patients had hypothyroidism and 16 (28.1%) had subclinical hypothyroidism, and among controls, 4 (3.5%) had hypothyroidism and 9 (7.9%) had subclinical hypothyroidism. Among the 24 patients with elevated TSH, 16 (66.6%) had mild-to-moderate pain and 8 (33.3%) had severe pain. Mean TSH was elevated in patients with severe pain compared with those with mild-to-moderate pain (5.43 ± 2.31 vs. 3.35 ± 2.48 µIU/mL, P = 0.031). TSH levels showed a positive correlation with SPADI pain score (r =0.335, P = 0.011) and SPADI disability score (r = 0.375, P = 0.004), respectively. There was significant restriction in ROM in patients with higher TSH levels (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION:

Patients with AC have higher prevalence of hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism compared with those who did not. Patients with higher TSH levels had more severe pain, restriction of movement, and overall disability when compared with euthyroid patients. Proper management of hypothyroidism along with the standard measures of management may result in more speedy relief from symptoms and recovery of function in these patients.
A Case of Bilateral Foot Drop Following Uncomplicated Vaginal Delivery
Authors: Sharmila Vijayan , Thirunavukkarasu Arun Babu
Published: August 2021

Peroneal neuropathy leading to foot drop is a rare, but preventable, maternal complication following vaginal delivery. Prolonged labor and regional anesthesia during labor are major risk factors for peroneal neuropathy. Obstetric peroneal nerve injury is usually unilateral and is caused by prolonged pressure exerted during full knee flexion in squatting and lithotomy positions while in labor. Bilateral peroneal neuropathies are extremely rare. We report a rare case of bilateral peroneal nerve injury in a 27-year-old primigravida, following spontaneous onset of labor and uncomplicated vaginal delivery.
COVID-19 Infection Masquerading as Bilateral Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Arya Yajur , Jesrani Gautam , Gupta Monica , Syal Arshi
Published: August 2021

COVID-19 infection is an established culprit responsible for a multitude of devastating vascular complications such as venous thrombosis of the extremities and other vascular organs. Dislodgment of these thrombi and extension of damage to other organ systems, particularly pulmonary, are quite uncommon. The occurrence of bilateral pulmonary embolism (PE) without concurrent deep vein thrombosis is, however, rare and reported in only a few case reports. Here we are narrating a case of a 40-year-old male, who suffered from novel COVID-19 infection and unfortunately presented with bilateral submassive PE. Our patient was aggressively managed medically and had a splendid recovery in terms of symptoms with an excellent outcome.
Role of Preoperative Multidetector Computed Tomography Airway Reconstruction in Anaesthetic Management of Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IV
Authors: Tiwari Pradeep , Kotak Nirav M , Shetty Anita N
Published: August 2021

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of lysosomal storage disorders that often present with a difficult airway. The trachea is usually narrowed and flattened, making the choice of correct technique and endotracheal tube (ETT) size crucial. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) images have been used to assess the airway of children who are considered at risk for difficult intubation. However, it has not been standardised in preoperative assessment of MPS. We report a case in whom after failed fibreoptic intubation, titrated doses of injection propofol were given and direct laryngoscopy was performed. A 6.0 mm internal diameter (ID) and later a 5.0 mm ID ETT were tried but could not be negotiated. Subsequently, the airway was secured with a 4.5 mm ID ETT. Postoperatively, MDCT airway reconstruction demonstrated that the narrowest part of airway measured 4.3 mm. Anaesthesiologists often face a multitude of challenges in these patients. Our experience gained in retrospect suggests that a detailed preoperative evaluation including MDCT airway reconstruction, followed by meticulous planning, is essential for a safe outcome.
Phytohormones Jasmonic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Gibberellins, and Abscisic Acid are Key Mediators of Plant Secondary Metabolites
Authors: Lv Zong-You , Sun Wen-Jing , Jiang Rui , Chen Jun-Feng , Ying Xiao , Zhang Lei , Chen Wan-Sheng
Published: August 2021

Until recently, many studies on the role of phytohormones in plant secondary metabolism focused on jasmonic acid (JA), salicylic acid (SA), gibberellins (GA), and abscisic acid (ABA). It is now clear that phytohormone-induced regulation of signaling occurs via regulation of the biosynthetic pathway genes at the transcriptional level or through posttranslational regulation, or an increase in secondary metabolite deposition (e.g., trichomes). Here, we summarize recent advances, updating the current reports on the molecular machinery of phytohormones JA, SA, GA, and ABA involved in plant secondary metabolites. This review emphasizes the differences and similarities among the four phytohormones in regulating various secondary metabolic biosynthetic pathways and also provides suggestions for further research.
The Unsustainability of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets
Authors: Santos Ellen M. , Curtis Tatyana M.
Published: August 2021

Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) are highly effective tools for malaria prevention, and it is clear bed nets are necessary. However, given the environmental concerns of the production, distribution, and disposal of LLINs, the malaria prevention community should look to design sturdier nets that last longer and are made of more sustainable materials to reduce harmful environmental impacts in a time when addressing climate change is urgent. We discuss concerns related to plastic pollution and the environmental health of LLINs in their current form, while recognizing the absolute importance of bed nets for malaria prevention. We call for conversation and innovation among all those involved in malaria prevention to address the unsustainability of LLINs and to maximize the resources available for malaria prevention in a climate of competing global health priorities.
Seroprevalence of Dengue Infection Using IgG Capture ELISA in India, 2017–2018
Authors: Santhosh Kumar Muthusamy , Kamaraj P. , Khan Siraj Ahmed , Allam Ramesh Reddy , Barde Pradip V. , Dwibedi Bhagirathi , Kanungo Suman , Mohan Uday , Sundar Mohanty Suman , Roy Subarna , Sagar Vivek , Savargaonkar Deepali , Tandale Babasaheb V. , Topno Roshan Kamal , Kumar C. P. Girish , Sabarinathan R. , Kumar V. Saravana , Karunakaran T. , Jose Annamma , Sadhukhan Provash , Toteja G. S. , Dutta Shanta , Murhekar Manoj
Published: August 2021

We conducted a nationally representative population-based survey in 60 districts from 15 Indian states covering all five geographic regions during 2017–2018 to estimate the age specific seroprevalence of dengue. Of the 12,300 sera collected, 4,955 were positive for IgG antibodies against dengue virus using IgG Indirect ELISA indicating past dengue infection. We tested 4,948 sera (seven had inadequate volume) positive for IgG antibodies on indirect ELISA using anti-dengue IgG capture ELISA to estimate the proportion of dengue infections with high antibody titers, suggestive of acute or recent secondary infection. Of the 4,948 sera tested, 529 (10.7%; 95% CI: 9.4–12.1) were seropositive on IgG capture ELISA. The proportions of dengue infections with high titers were 1.1% in the northeastern, 1.5% in the eastern, 6.2% in the western, 12.2% in the southern, and 16.7% in the northern region. The distribution of dengue infections varied across geographic regions, with a higher proportion of infections with high antibody titer in the northern and southern regions of India. The study findings could be useful for planning facilities for clinical management of dengue infections.