bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Integrated Approach to Understand the Variable Fluid Contacts in a Giant Carbonate Field of Middle East - A Case Study
Authors: Nandwani S. , Kumar P. D. , Singhal M. , Gogoi J. M.
Published: October 2017

This case study attempts to explain a fully integrated approach, to develop a comprehensive understanding of variable fluid contacts in a giant carbonate field (with stacked reservoirs) of Middle Eastern region. With very little to no water handling facility at surface, this study helps the operating unit to sustain dry hydrocarbon production by identification of potential water producing zones. The outcome of this study also has a direct impact to optimize future well locations/numbers, and to come up with a perforation strategy integrating surface and subsurface disciplines.

A detailed fluid fill analysis is done with the available data. Oil, water, and transition zones are picked in individual wells (~50) and correlated with Drill Stem Test (DST) data, mud log data, special log data (viz. NMR), and electro-facies data (rock typing from logs) to arrive at an understanding about lateral and vertical fluid distribution in the field. Reservoir surveillance data, in few wells, is also used to calibrate the fluid distribution model.

Fluid-fill distribution mapping has shown that fluid fill varies both vertically (between zones) and laterally. Vertical variation can be attributed to capillarity of different rock types – rocks with good porosity and permeability having the deepest oil fills with little to no transition zones, while low porosity rocks have long transition zones and shallow oil fills. A consistent inverse relationship is observed between the porosity and thickness of the transition zone for all reservoirs. Also, lateral variation in the fluid fill is observed in ENE-SSW direction where aquifer is present. Open hole log interpretation shows residual oil signature in wells in W-NW direction which is further confirmed by available mudlog data. A structural-tilting theory helps us to explain these lateral variations across the field. Observations infer that a tilting episode has sunk the NW part of the structure, post oil migration. Consequently, the oil-filled rock that submerged below Free Water Level (FWL) underwent imbibition. The evidence of imbibition is now seen in the form of a residual oil signature. Understanding and mapping of the residual oil zones is critical to sustain the production of dry oil and delay/minimize the water production in the field.

The novelty of this study is to reiterate cross discipline integration, where different pieces of data when put together helps to solve the most complex of the problems (viz. variable fluid contact in carbonate reservoirs, rock typing scheme), thereby having a direct impact on the field development plan and consequently on the ultimate hydrocarbon recovery.
Production Allocation Challenge with Presence of Apparent Down Flow ADF Phenomenon: A Case Study in Malaysia Wells
Authors: Rosli M. Aliff , M. Nordin Norintan Farina , Abdul Latif Azzad Hafiz , Hashim Haziq , Nurzahira M. Shuib Siti , Farid M. , Amin M. , Hamid Afiq A. , Ramli Anis Salwa
Published: October 2017

Production allocation is required in hydrocarbon accounting to determine the hydrocarbon volume at the point of sale and for back allocation to the field, platform, well, and down to the individual reservoir levels. Production allocation is not only important for the purpose of reporting to the host government but also to understand the remaining hydrocarbon reserves which are crucial for reservoir management and input to the full field review studies.

For wells producing from commingle zones, the individual zonal contribution determination is important. The Production Logging Tool (PLT) is commonly used to measure each reservoir's contribution downhole. Latest technology advancement in directional drilling over time has allowed for more deviated and horizontal wells. Well deviation is one of the factors affecting fluid flow pattern in a borehole apart from the phase holdups and fluid properties (PVT). As production fluid flows upwards in a deviated well, the movement of the lighter phase to the high side of the well displaces the dominant heavier phase liquid, causing it to flow downwards. This borehole phenomenon is commonly known as Apparent Down Flow (ADF).

A standard PLT has a centralized spinner configuration and when run in wells experiencing ADF will likely cause the spinner to measure an incorrect fluid velocity. Depending on the degree of the holdup of the heavier phase, the spinner may show a reduced or even negative rotation if it is immersed in the heavier phase fluid. Conversely, the spinner may show faster rotation if it is located in the lighter phase fluid. The advanced PLT, with its array of mini spinners and holdup sensors, was developed in part, to measure the effects of ADF and was designed to cover the well's cross section area, giving a more accurate description of the flow behavior; thus better measurement and understanding of ADF phenomena.

It has been observed from many production logging surveys that were conducted using a standard PLT, where the spinner shows negative readings during the flowing condition, indicating fluid re-circulation (or fluid fallback). However, information from other sensors such as fluid density identifier and temperature tool does not support these findings (of fluid re-circulation), which results in inaccurate rate calculation to determine zonal contribution. To overcome this challenge, the advanced PLT can be used to measure the contribution for each zone more accurately as the effects of ADF can be further understood. The calculated production rates from the advanced PLT were found to be more representative despite the presence of ADF in the wells.

This paper discusses some case studies on the application of the advanced PLT in overcoming the challenges of quantifying zonal contribution in wells experiencing ADF.
Development of a Remotely Activated Liner Hanger System While Minimizing Operational Risks
Authors: Munshi A. A. , O'Connor K. , McMahon S. , Carmody M.
Published: October 2017

Operators for deepwater and extended-reach wells, where daily rig costs can exceed $500k per day, are continuously exploring methods to reduce nonproductive time (NPT) and increase operational efficiency. One particular area of interest is the deployment of liner strings, which are commonly used as an alternative to long casing strings to minimize well construction costs and increase drilling efficiency. For deepwater and highly deviated applications, hydraulic liner hangers are predominantly used over mechanical tools due to the limitations of pipe manipulation needed to set the hanger. The traditional method for setting a hydraulic liner hanger includes the use of one or more activation balls dropped from surface so that pressure can be applied to the workstring to function the hydraulic liner hanger and running tool. However, in deepwater and extended-reach applications, the time to pump or gravitate the ball on seat can take up to 3 hours. In addition, there are many cases where the ball never properly lands on seat, which can lead to days of more NPT. Developing a liner hanger system that does not rely on dropping activation balls from surface, nor rely on pipe manipulation can reduce the time required to run the liner hanger and minimize issues that lead to increased NPT.

This paper presents how a new liner hanger system was developed to use simple mud flow signals to remotely communicate with a downhole controller located on the workstring. The downhole controller receives the specific activation signal from surface and then relays that signal to the liner hanger or running tool via an acoustic signal. The liner hanger and running tool are then actuated with an electronically triggered hydrostatic actuator.

This new system does not require dropping activation balls from surface, simplifying system hook-up and reducing the amount of time required to set the liner hanger. The system also allows a solid liner hanger body with no pressure ports, eliminating the potential leak paths inherent to hydraulic liner hangers.

The novel approach to design and develop the remote liner hanger system to minimize operational risks and reduce development time will be discussed in detail. This includes the evolution of the remote system from field-proven hydraulic liner hanger technology and the results from testing performed to qualify the remote communication methodology. This liner hanger system improves well construction efficiencies and is a step in the direction of a smarter and safer oilfield through more automated operations.
Perforation Portfolio Management in Tunu Mature Giant Gas Field by Implementation of Intensive Well Review and Its Application in Production Forecast Improvement and Optimization of Well Intervention Planning
Authors: Purwanto Eko Yudhi , Herawati Suhesti , Rau Irfan Taufik , Anggoro Jodi , Suwito Edy
Published: October 2017

Tunu is a mature giant gas field, located in swamp area of Mahakam delta. It covers an area of 75 km long and 15 km wide with enormous multi-layer sand-shale series deposited within a deltaic environment. The production commenced in 1990 and peaked in 1999 (1.5 Bcfd yearly average), with current production around 600 MMscfd, and nearly 1,200 wells drilled from 34 platforms.

As the field is entering into the late stage of its life and number of new wells being drilled is decreasing, the field potential is now quite dependent on the existing perforation portfolio. Owing to the significant number of wells, with multi-layer reservoirs encountered by each well, the perforation portfolio needs to be managed in an efficient and detailed manner.

An intensive well review has been performed, involving more than 9,000 reservoirs located in over 800 active wells. It commenced with an evaluation of perforation gain and its associated risks at reservoir level, which are then progressively summarized into higher levels; well, platform, and field. Perforation sequences are then defined for each well following a bottom-up perforation strategy while also adapting the risks of each reservoir. Ultimately, an organized reservoir chart is constructed where we can dynamically surveil the field perforation portfolio.

Results of this intensive well review have enabled the shift of production forecast methodology from statistical toward deterministic approach. In the new approach, for instance, perforation sequences and time interval between the sequences in each well are deterministically determined on a well by well basis according to the aforementioned reservoir chart. Compared to the previous methodology, this new approach yields a better representation of the actual operations.

Another area benefited by the results of the intensive well review is the optimization of well intervention planning. The identified workload is grouped together based on the remaining perforation portfolio of each platform while also respecting their location to define several well intervention clusters. Implementation of this clustering system optimizes perforation planning which reduces the time spent by perforation barges to travel from one platform to another, thus allowing more time for perforation.
Drilling and Completion Fluids Customization to Achieve Maximum Well Productivity in Lower Burgan Reservoir, Case Study from Kuwait Field
Authors: Al-Ajmi Abdullah , Al-Rushoud Abdulaziz , Gohain Ashis , Khatib Faiz I , Al-Gharib Majed , Al-Ajmi Ali , Al-Mekhlef Alanoud Mahdi , Mustafa Mohammed Abdulla , Mago Ankit , Rossi Arnaldo , Rane Praful
Published: October 2017

With the desired objective of increasing Oil production, the Operator initiated a high inclination well drilling campaign utilizing open hole completions with Inflow Control Device (ICD) screens in Burgan (sandstone) reservoirs. The approach dramatically reduces the effect of water and gas breakthrough, while optimizing production rates throughout the completion interval.

Challenges encountered while drilling these high inclination wells included increased non-productive time resulting from interbedded formations with varying formation pressures, wellbore instability in the reactive, stressed shale sections and hole cleaning challenges.

A non-aqueous reservoir drilling fluid (RDIF) system was customized with extensive laboratory testing to overcome the challenges and protect the reservoir from drilling fluid damage. The formation damage phenomena investigated included foreign particle invasion, formation clay swelling, chemical incompatibility, oil wetting of the reservoir rock, emulsion blocking and fluid invasion (water blocking).

Based on the reservoir rock morphology and the calculated pore throat size distribution, the bridging particles type, size distribution, and concentration to be selected to rapidly establish a tight thin filter cake and prevent the invasion of filtrate and fine drilled solids deep into the formation to minimize damage to reservoir and avoid getting differential stuck pipe incident.

Removal of skin damage resulting from external and internal filter cake deposition while drilling reservoir with invert emulsion fluid is vitally important to enhance production. The customized near-wellbore damage remediation system constructed around an in-situ acid precursor was designed to improve hydrocarbon recovery.

This paper also summarizes engineering best practices developed while drilling, tripping and performing PST to achieve the operators well objectives. The lessons learned during these applications were incorporated into future wells to standardize operating procedures and improve field performance.
Flow Performance of Proppant in Hydraulic Fractures Below 2lb/ft2
Authors: Milton-Tayler D.
Published: October 2017

In shale fracturing operations, proppant loadings of less than 2lb/ft2 are often the reality. Most published industry data relates to testing at 2lb/ft2. As the fracture width reduces relative to proppant size, physical changes occur to the proppant pack which influences its ability to maintain open a permeable effective pathway for hydrocarbon production.

In this paper, new data is presented to the industry to quantify how this increasing proppant crush and the changing fracture conductivity response to applied stress impact on proppant performance. The value of the basic crush test is extended by measuring the impact of time at stress, and the impact of cyclic stress. In this way, the crush test becomes a more realistic predictive tool and enables an assessment of some of the dominant processes controlling proppant performance. Finally, the impact of the indentation hardness of the rock itself is investigated by running tests with Ohio sandstone, Clashach and the familiar hardened steel plates of the traditional crush cell.

Proppant exposed to the higher contact stresses at the fracture face make up a proportionally greater fraction of the pack itself as the width reduces resulting in greater mean crush and potentially lower fracture conductivity. Contact stress is not fully described by closure stress. The data is new to the industry and builds on the previous work of others to provide better insight into proppant selection for shale fracturing. It is especially timely given the current industry trend to pump large quantities of poorer quality proppant. Understanding the application of laboratory data and assessing correctly the required in-fracture conductivity performance of proppant, enables the industry to differentiate between Value and Price.
Saturation Mapping in the Interwell Reservoir Volume: A New Technology Breakthrough
Authors: Marsala Alberto F. , Lyngra Stig , Ma S. Mark , Alsaif Sarah F. , Zhang Ping , Ramadan Moemen , Abdallah Wael
Published: October 2017

A crosswell electromagnetic (EM) tomography survey was acquired between two horizontal wells, a water injector and a producer, using coil tubing conveyance. The survey was conveyed in a swept area of a naturally fractured Middle Eastern carbonate reservoir. This paper presents the work flow that was developed to integrate the EM survey results with other data to successfully map interwell hydrocarbon saturations. A slanted well was later landed in the interwell area based on the crosswell survey interpretation results. This new well targeted an oil column shown to be bypassed by the water injection in the swept area, and the well is currently on production. The survey established a number of world firsts for the EM technology, including horizontal wells deployment, well spacing >1.3 km, full 3D resistivity inversion and 3D apparent water saturation mapping.

The field program consisted of an extensive openhole logging sequence in each well prior to the crosswell EM data collection. The crosswell EM survey measured 135 profiles, covering more than an 800 m horizontal section in each of the two wells. High quality data were acquired for almost all the data profiles, even in a 400 m cased section. The field data were interpreted with a 3D inversion code. The fracture corridors were identified as electrical conductive volumes, due to their high water saturation. The less or unswept areas were characterized by higher resistivity, due to their lower water content.

A resistivity model cannot be directly used for reservoir evaluation, then the subsequent step was to convert the resistivity model into a saturation volume, based on Archie's law. An innovative workflow of petrophysical simulations was designed to define volumetric distribution of porosity and water salinity based on reservoir simulation scenarios and ad hoc laboratory analysis. Finally, the most probable scenario of apparent water saturation volume in the interwell reservoir volume was produced.

This work outlines the critical need for deep characterization in cases of fractured carbonate reservoirs, and in any case where the sweep efficiency is likely to be uneven, due to heterogeneities of reservoir petrophysical properties, and particularly permeability field variations.
New Approach to Quantify Productivity of Fishbone Multilateral Well
Authors: Hassan Amjed , Abdulraheem Abdulazeez , Elkatatny Salaheldin , Ahmed Musa
Published: October 2017

The fishbone wells are new production technology applied to increase well productivity and access the difficult geological formations and unconventional reservoirs. The main advantages of this technology over hydraulic fracturing are the competitive price and reduced operation time. Fishbone shaped multilateral wells proved better productivity than multi-fractured horizontal wells in relatively low permeable reservoirs. In this paper, a new approach is proposed to predict the fishbone performance without using smart well completion or any down-hole valves in the horizontal laterals.

Very limited work has been done for multilateral fishbone drilled in dry gas reservoir, and few empirical models were developed to estimate the inflow performance of fishbone wells producing from two-phase reservoirs, however, those models ignore the number of rib holes and assume constant pressure drop across horizontal laterals, therefore, using such models can produce severe estimations errors. The main objective of this research is to present a reliable model to estimate the productivity of fishbone multilateral wells producing from anisotropic and heterogeneous gas reservoirs. Several artificial intelligence techniques were studied to quantify the productivity of fishbone multilateral well for a wider range of conditions without introducing uncertainties/ complexity associated with other numerical methods.

The proposed models investigate the significance of reservoir parameters, number of laterals, permeability ratio (Kh/Kv), length of laterals and lateral spacing on the productivity of the fishbone well. More than 250 data sets were utilized to develop and validate the model reliability. The production rate is estimated using artificial neural network (ANN), adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), generalized neural network (GRNN) and radial basis function network (RBF). The models require the reservoir parameters and the wellbore configurations to determine the flow rate without a need for using down-hole well completion. Furthermore, mathematical equation was extracted by utilizing the artificial neural network model, this equation was verified using two rate tests from actual gas field, an acceptable error of 7% was obtained. The finding of this work would afford an effective tool for quantifying the productivity of complex fishbone wells and refine the commercial well performance software to narrow down the differences between the simulation outputs and actual field data, then lead to a better determination of the optimum production rate.
Study of the Efficiency of Methods for Enhanced Condensate Recovery, Based on Reservoir Simulation Models
Authors: Makarov E. S. , Yushkov A. Y. , Romanov A. S.
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this paper is to assess the technological efficiency of methods for increasing condensate recovery from the Achimov deposits of the Urengoy Oil and Gas Condensate Field (Аch52-3 reservoir within the East Urengoy License Area). The distinctive features of the Achimov reservoirs are the low permeability (of the order of 1 mD) and abnormally high initial reservoir pressure (≈ 600 atm.).

The technological performance was simulated using the ECLIPSE 300 composite flow model. To simulate the condensate recovery improvement methods at one of the Аch52-3 sections, the authors selected a development element the average parameters of which corresponded to the parameters of a full-scale model. The performance of various methods was evaluated by comparing the selected methods to the baseline scenario, which represents a traditional gas development process, i.e. the depletion. The methods for maintaining reservoir pressure by injecting various agents into the reservoir were considered as alternative scenarios for reservoir engineering: dry gas (cycling), nitrogen, water, WAG. In addition, the optimal ratio of injection and production wells, the voidage replacement, and gas recovery rate were selected.

The economic efficiency of various development scenarios was estimated using an economic model. The complex approach was used to rank the options, taking into account both the technological results (gas / condensate recovery ratios) and economic indicators (NPV, state discounted revenue).

The results of the studies on condensate recovery improvement confirm the technological applicability of unconventional technologies for the development of gas condensate fields, in particular, injection of nitrogen into the reservoir. These technologies make it possible to achieve a relative increase in condensate recovery by 40-50% compared to the baseline scenario. On the other hand, under current macroeconomic conditions, the conventional depletion method for gas-condensate recovery remains more attractive.
STRUCTURE, ELECTRON AND OSCILLATORY PROPERTIES OF ZINC NITRATE AND ITS CRYSTAL HYDRATES
Authors: Zhuravlev Yuriy , Zhuravlev Yuriy , Zhuravleva Lyudmila , Zhuravleva Lyudmila , Inerbaev Talgat , Inerbaev Talgat
Published: October 2017

Within the generalized gradient aproximation of the Density Functional Theory (DFT) with the PBE exchange-correlation functional in the basis of localized atomic orbital of CRYSTAL14 program code, the study is conducted to evaluate the structural, electronic and oscillatory properties of zinc nitrate and its crystal hydrates Zn(NO3)2 • nH2O (n = 2,4,6), with its tested method using the zinc oxide. The first-principle structural study is performed at the full optimization of the lattice distance and atomic positions for the zinc nitrate in the cubic lattice and that of crystal hydrates - in monoclinic lattice. Elastic properties of the nitrate are studied and the mechanical stability is approved using the Born criteria. Electronic properties of rated structures are assessed by energetic (energy-band picture, full and partial density of states) and spatial electron distribution (electronic and deformation density, population density of atomic membranes and density of their overlapping). Crystal hydrates show the electrostatic pattern of nitrogroup interaction and water molecules, availability of localized valence bands and areas of vacant state of anion and cation origin. Oscillatory properties are studied by calculation of frequencies and intensity of IR-active normal long-wave oscillation. In crystal hydrates, the appearance of additional oscillation frequency O-H in terms of nitrate 3000 cm-1 above the IR-spectrum in water molecules and within the area 1200÷1600 cm-1 - of hybrid with nitrogroups.
PHASE EQUILIBRIUM IN SYSTEMS BASED ON ALIPHATIC BEBZENE HYDROCARBONS
Authors: Denisov Viktor , Denisov Viktor , Esina Zoya , Esina Zoya , Korchuganova Margarita , Korchuganova Margarita
Published: October 2017

The optimization of planning and realization of extraction and extractive distillation demand an in-depth qualitative and quantitative study of phase equilibria between aliphatic benzene hydrocarbons and solvents. In the chemical industry it is important to consider the properties of aliphatic benzene hydrocarbons when producing synthetic rubbers, plastics, synthetic fibers, explosive, aniline-ink and pharmaceutical substances. The results of study of physical and chemical properties of aliphatic benzene hydrocarbons can be applied in the automotive and aviation industry. The thermodynamic properties of fuel and mixtures should be studied to assistance a wider use of renewable types of fuel for motor transport. It is necessary to make a connection between the quality of fuel and the productivity of the engine. Aliphatic benzene hydrocarbons have high octane numbers therefore their presence in gasolines is quite desirable. On the other hand, their existence in diesel fuels impairs the fuel combustion process. Model PCEAS (Phase Chart Eutectic and Azeotropic Systems) allows to calculate activity coefficients and the liquid-solid and liquid-vapor equilibrium with a constant pressure on the basis of the Gibbs free energy minimization method, and also the parameters of eutectic and azeotropic points in the systems on the basis of aliphatic benzene hydrocarbons (benzene and monoalkylbenzenes with the normal alkyl chain) has been provided.
INFLUENCE OF NEURODYNAMIC AND PERSONAL FEATURES ON RELIABILITY OF DRIVING
Authors: Litvinova Nadezhda , Litvinova Nadezhda , Fedorov Alexander , Fedorov Alexander , Berezina Marina , Berezina Marina , Ivanov Vadim , Ivanov Vadim , Mukhin Evgeniy , Mukhin Evgeniy
Published: October 2017

The article presents the analysis of influence of neurodynamic and personal features on the safety and reliability of driving. An analysis of a number of accidents (road accidents) was performed, the psychophysiological diagnostics included the assessment of the main properties of the nervous system, psychodynamic characteristics and personal features according to the scales of the MMPI questionnaire. Data on 608 people characterizing the functional condition of the nervous system, the personal and psychodynamic features allowing to distinguish three groups have been studied: The 1st group is the drivers who have not violated the traffic rules; the 2nd group is the drivers who have violated the trafflc rules once during the year; the 3rd group is the drivers who have violated the traffic rules 4 or more times. Among the indicators characterizing neurodynamic functions the most reliable distinctions in the operability of a brain and degrees of expressiveness of exciting and inhibitory processes and motive and coordination sensomotor reactions have been found. These results are important when developing the approaches concerning safe behavior on the roads, and also when organizing work and optimizing the process of training of future motor vehicle drivers.
Evaluation of the impacts of climate variability on rainfed maize production over the Wami-Ruvu basin of Tanzania
Authors: Luhunga Philbert
Published: October 2017

In this study, the impact of inter-seasonal climate variability on rainfed maize (Zea mays) production over the Wami-Ruvu basin of Tanzania is evaluated. Daily high-resolution climate simulations from the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment_Regional Climate Models (CORDEX_RCMs) are used to drive the Decision Support System for Agro-technological Transfer (DSSAT) to simulate maize yields. Climate simulations for the base period of 35 years (1971–2005) are used to drive DSSAT to simulate maize yields during the historical climate. On the other hand, climate projections for the period 2010–2039 (current), 2040–2069 (mid), and 2070–2099 centuries for two Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP45 and 85) emission scenarios are used to drive DSSAT to simulate maize yields in respective centuries. Statistical approaches based on Pearson correlation coefficient and the coefficients of determination are used in the analysis. Results show that rainfall, maximum temperature, and solar radiation are the most important climate variables that determine variation in rainfed maize yields over the Wami-Ruvu basin of Tanzania. They explain the variability in maize yields in historical climate condition (1971–2005), present century under RCP 4.5, and mid and end centuries under both RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5.
The Medicinal Chemistry of Therapeutic Peptides: Recent Developments in Synthesis and Design Optimizations
Authors: Parthasarathy Anutthaman , Anandamma Sasikala K. , Kalesh Karunakaran A.
Published: October 2017

Peptide therapeutics has made tremendous progress in the past decade. Many
of the inherent weaknesses of peptides which hampered their development as therapeutics
are now more or less effectively tackled with recent scientific and technological advancements
in integrated drug discovery settings. These include recent developments in
synthetic organic chemistry, high-throughput recombinant production strategies, highresolution
analytical methods, high-throughput screening options, ingenious drug delivery
strategies and novel formulation preparations. Here, we will briefly describe the key
methodologies and strategies used in the therapeutic peptide development processes with
selected examples of the most recent developments in the field. The aim of this review is
to highlight the viable options a medicinal chemist may consider in order to improve a
specific pharmacological property of interest in a peptide lead entity and thereby rationally
assess the therapeutic potential this class of molecules possesses while they are traditionally
(and incorrectly) considered ‘undruggable’.
Biomarkers of Atrial Fibrillation in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Georgakopoulos Christos , Vlachopoulos Charalambos , Lazaros Georgios , Tousoulis Dimitrios
Published: October 2017

Whether the increased atrial fibrillation (AF) risk in metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients is due to the syndrome as a whole or simply the sum of the risks of its individual component parts is still obscure. These two clinical entities share many pathophysiological links and thus distinction between a casual observation and a significant association is difficult. Biomarkers associated with pathogenesis of AF in the context of MetS have the ability to refine future risk prediction. In the present review we identify circulating substances that could be regarded as potential biomarkers for prediction of incident AF, or of cardiovascular events in the setting of AF in patients with MetS. Cardiac myocyte injury and stress markers (troponin and natriuretic peptides), markers of renal function (glomeral filtration rate, cystatin-C), and inflammation markers/mediators (interleukin- 6, CRP) are promising biomarkers of patients with AF and MetS.
Nanotechnology in Personalized Medicine: A Promising Tool for Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment
Authors: De Matteis Laura , Martín-Rapún Rafael , de la Fuente Jesús M.
Published: October 2017

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a public health priority all over the
world. The difficulty of fighting the disease consists mostly in the complexity of symptoms
and causes, in the still poor knowledge of its mechanisms and in the existence of a latent,
asymptomatic, preclinical stage. Although many drugs are continuously screened in clinical
studies for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, the unexpected lack of patient response and
sometimes the important adverse effects make it a potential field of application for personalized
medicine.

Objective:

This perspective review proposes nanotechnology as a valuable tool for the application
of personalized medicine to AD.

Methods:

The aim of personalized medicine is the development of more patient-precise
treatments based mostly on the knowledge of individual genetics as well as of disease progress,
and of pharmacokinetics and metabolic response to available drugs. The optimization
of new and more sensitive detection techniques is an important tool for obtaining the pool of
data needed for prediction and understanding of patient response.

Results:

Research in bionanosensors is already providing examples with high sensitivity for
core and new biomarkers for AD. In therapy the functionalization of nanoparticle surface
can add specificity for biological recognition or for improving the bioavailability. This
would allow the administration of lower doses with less adverse effects due to the local targeting.

Conclusion:

Taking into account the promising characteristics of nanoparticles as excellent
candidate tools for precision medicine development, the establishment of better standard
methods for safety assessment and production scale up would be desirable for the nanomaterial
fruitful employment.
Pathophysiological Role of Mitochondrial Potassium Channels and their Modulation by Drugs
Authors: Citi Valentina , Calderone Vincenzo , Martelli Alma , Breschi Maria C. , Testai Lara
Published: October 2017

Background:

Mitochondria play a central role in ATP-generating processes. Indeed, in
mammalian tissues, up to 90% of ATP is generated by mitochondria through the process of oxidative
phosphorylation; furthermore, mitochondria are involved in multiple signal transduction
pathways. A rapidly expanding body of literature has confirmed that mitochondria play a pivotal
role in apoptosis, cardio- and neuro-protection, and various neurodegenerative disorders, ranging
from Parkinson’s to Alzheimer’s disease. Mitochondria are also the targets of multiple drugs,
some of these are specifically designed to affect mitochondrial function, while others have primary
targets in other cellular locations but may interact with mitochondria because of the presence
of numerous targets on this organelle. In this regard, mitochondrial potassium (mitoK)
channels play a critical role in mitochondrial function and, consequently, in the metabolism of the
whole cell.

Objective: To describe mitoK channels from a structural point of view and investigate their
pathophysiological roles, focusing on possible specific modulators that might be useful as pharmacological
tools in the treatment of various pathologies characterized by mitoK involvement.

Results: mitoK channels play a decisive role in several pathologies, including cardiovascular diseases,
particularly in myocardial infarction and neurodegenerative diseases, and they are emerging
as promising oncological targets.

Conclusions: mitoK channels represent novel targets, and mitoK channel modulators represent
an exciting tool for pharmacological intervention against such pathological conditions.
Development of Drug Targeting and Delivery in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Aggarwal Urvashi , Goyal Amit Kumar , Rath Goutam
Published: October 2017

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women. Standard treatment options
available for cervical cancer include chemotherapy, surgery and radiation therapy associated with
their own side effects and toxicities. Tumor-targeted delivery of anticancer drugs is perhaps one of
the most appropriate strategies to achieve optimal outcomes from the treatment and improve the
quality of life. Recently nanocarriers based drug delivery systems owing to their unique properties
have been extensively investigated for anticancer drug delivery. In addition to that addressing the
anatomical significance of cervical cancer, various local drug delivery strategies for the cancer
treatment are introduced like: gels, nanoparticles, polymeric films, rods and wafers, lipid based
nanocarrier. Localized drug delivery systems allow passive drug targeting results in high drug concentration
at the target site. Further they can be tailor made to achieve both sustained and controlled
release behavior, substantially improving therapeutic outcomes and minimizing side effects. This
review summarizes the meaningful advances in drug delivery strategies to treat cervical cancer.
Explorations of Family-school Relationships Regarding Children with RAD and/or EBD: A Review of Relevant Literature from 1995-2016
Authors: Wenger Christa , Crump Sara Lyn , LaFollette Jessica , Kurtz Megan
Published: October 2017

Background:

School and family interactions that include a focus on students from all backgrounds and ability levels are crucial for promoting students’ social, academic, and behavioral success. Specifically, it is important that educators and other stakeholders focus on developing effective interactions with the families of students who have Emotional and Behavioral Disorders (EBD) or Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD).

Objective:

The aim of this study is to gain an understanding of the relationships between schools and the families of students with EBD or RAD as represented in published research. Another goal of this study is to understand whether these relationships have changed over time (1995-present).

Method:

This investigation sought to find empirical studies concerning relationships between schools and the families of students with EBD or RAD. The researchers divided the 1995-2016 time period into five- to-six-year increments and then searched for qualitative articles using agreed upon search terms. The authors used mainly the ERIC database from which to conduct their initial search.

Results:

There were 11 qualitative studies reviewed for this article. The articles were summarized and discussed according to two categories: “Families of Children with RAD” and “Families of Children with EBD.” Among these studies, three themes emerged in response to the research question: “The Importance of Caregivers,” “Family and School Communication,” and “Support Systems and Interventions.” These themes revealed critical ideologies regarding persons diagnosed with RAD or EBD and their family-school partnerships. Further, this review of literature indicates qualitative studies involving students with RAD or EBD in connection with family-school ties are limited, although a significant amount of literature exists regarding school-family ties.

Conclusion:

More qualitative studies are needed involving students with RAD and/or EBD and the connection to family-school relationships. The reviewed articles indicated that family-school partnerships depend on the landscape of the school system. Communication from the families to the schools and vice versa is important for persons with RAD or EBD diagnoses, as well as interventions and support systems. While this review does help to better understand these family–school partnerships, educators would benefit from additional studies during this time of the Common Core State Standards, increased accountability, inclusion, and high–stakes testing.
Effectiveness of Therapeutic Attachment Camps for Improving Behavior in Children with Reactive Attachment Disorder
Authors: Coleman Anne M. , Coleman Allen Rand
Published: October 2017

Background:

Early childhood attachment disruption manifests in disruptive, oppositional behavior and reduced ability for trusting intimate relationships. Chronic emotional disorder negatively affects the entire family system, making treatment difficult.

Objective:

The goal of the study was to assess a family therapeutic treatment program for children with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) conducted through an intensive, one-week camp.

Methods:

Therapeutic camps included training for caregivers, support for siblings, behavioral interventions for children with RAD, and family therapy exercises. Camps were conducted across North America. Standardized behavioral health rating scales were used to evaluate outcomes.

Results:

Therapeutic Attachment Camp effectively reduced disruptive behaviors within a one week period and improved family mental health scores. Pretest to post-test scores on the Randolph Attachment Disorder Questionnaire showed significant change in a clinically positive direction. Behaviors specifically associated with attachment and conscience development improved, such as showing remorse or guilt, self-control, telling the truth and accepting parental direction. Child anxiety was observed to be less based on self-rating on the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Parent anxiety was significantly reduced based on the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Statistical effects were moderate to large.

Conclusion:

Results suggested that a treatment program addressing the needs of the entire family and combining attachment exercises with psychoeducation and structured parenting practice can be effective within a short time frame. Findings have implications for community and family mental health, and for developing culturally relevant treatments that integrate disciplines.
Role of Social Media in Diabetes Management in the Middle East Region: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Alanzi Turki
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a major health care burden in the Middle East region. Social networking tools can contribute to the management of diabetes with improved educational and care outcomes using these popular tools in the region.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this review was to evaluate the impact of social networking interventions on the improvement of diabetes management and health outcomes in patients with diabetes in the Middle East.

METHODS

Peer-reviewed articles from PubMed (1990-2017) and Google Scholar (1990-2017) were identified using various combinations of predefined terms and search criteria. The main inclusion criterion consisted of the use of social networking apps on mobile phones as the primary intervention. Outcomes were grouped according to study design, type of diabetes, category of technological intervention, location, and sample size.

RESULTS

This review included 5 articles evaluating the use of social media tools in the management of diabetes in the Middle East. In most studies, the acceptance rate for the use of social networking to optimize the management of diabetes was relatively high. Diabetes-specific management tools such as the Saudi Arabia Networking for Aiding Diabetes and Diabetes Intelligent Management System for Iraq systems helped collect patient information and lower hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The reviewed studies demonstrated the potential of social networking tools being adopted in regions in the Middle East to improve the management of diabetes. Future studies consisting of larger sample sizes spanning multiple regions would provide further insight into the use of social media for improving patient outcomes.
The Impact of Remittance on Trade Balance: The Case of Malaysia
Authors: Hien Nguyen Phuc
Published: October 2017

The paper aims to examines impact of remittance on Malaysia’s trade balance in last over two decades. Using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression model based on the annual data for twenty five years period from 1990 to 2015 to test the impact of remittance on the trade balance. The results showed the remittance influence on the trade balance positively. Our findings indicate that Malaysia did not face a symptom of Dutch disease impacted by the remittance. This is not surprised due to a small remittance to Malaysia, however, the interesting is that the remittance’s fluctuation is semilar to trade balance’s one.
Health technology assessment process of a cardiovascular medical device in four different settings
Authors: Olry de Labry Lima Antonio , Espín Balbino Jaime , Lemgruber Alexandre , Caro Martínez Araceli , García-Mochón Leticia , Martín Ruiz Eva , Lessa Fernanda
Published: October 2017

Aim:Health technology assessment (HTA) is a tool to help the decision-making process. The aim is to describe methods and processes used in the reimbursement decision making for drug-eluting stents (DES) in four different settings.Methods:DES as a technology under study was selected according to different criteria, all of them agreed by a working group. A survey of key informants was designed.Results:DES was evaluated following well-structured HTA processes. Nonetheless, scope for improvement was observed in relation to the data considered for the final decision, the transparency and inclusiveness of the process as well as in the methods employed.Conclusion:An attempt to describe the HTA processes of a well-known medical device.
Goal content, well-being, and psychological needs satisfaction in Chinese adolescents
Authors: Li Tao , Feng Fei
Published: October 2017

We examined the mediating role of psychological needs satisfaction in the association between goal content and subjective well-being (SWB) in a Chinese cultural context. Chinese adolescents (N = 493) completed the Aspiration Index, the Basic Needs Satisfaction in General Scale,
and the Index of Well-Being. The results suggested that SWB was positively correlated with intrinsic goals and psychological needs satisfaction, and intrinsic goals were positively correlated with psychological needs satisfaction. Mediation analysis revealed that psychological needs satisfaction
partially mediated the association between intrinsic goals and SWB. These results imply that pursuit of intrinsic goals helps individuals meet their psychological needs, thus promoting SWB. Together, these results suggest that educators and parents can help Chinese adolescents enhance their
SWB by encouraging them to form intrinsic life goals and satisfy their psychological needs.
Ownership concentration and earnings quality of banks: Results from a cross-country analysis
Authors: Mari Libero Mario , Soscia Manuel , Terzani Simone
Published: October 2017

This research investigates the impact of ownership concentration on earnings quality of banks. Previous literature shows that ownership concentration reduces agency costs between property and management, resulting in higher quality and transparency of information, and thus on earnings quality. The reason why we focus on banks lies on the specific constraints and regulations to which financial institutions are subjected, and as well as the different incentives to earnings management activities from management and property. Thus, the main issue of our research is to understand whether ownership concentration has an impact on banks earnings quality. We used a sample of 6,323 bank-year observations, across 35 countries, over the period 2001-2016. In the paper three different regression models are adopted to measure earnings quality according to the existing literature: (1) earnings persistence, (2) cash flow predictability and (3) earnings management to just-meet-or-beat the prior year’s earnings. We used OLS and random effects estimations for model (1) and (2) and logistic estimations for the model (3). Our results show that ownership concentration improves earnings quality of banks; this is true for all three estimated models. Our findings support the idea that the higher the ownership control on management activity, the higher the quality of earnings.