bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Turkic burial accompanied by horses from the Upper Irtysh River region
Authors: Tkachev A.A. , Tkachev Al.Al.
Published: September 2021

The second half of the 1st millennium AD is associated with the development and formation of the culture of ancient Turkic peoples, who repeatedly developed several large ethnopolitical associations in the steppe zone of Central Asia. Political and cultural influences of the Turkic state formations were perceived not only by the seden-tary population of the states that existed in the territory of East and Central Asia, but also by further north peoples who lived in the steppe and taiga zones. Under the Turkic influence, or with their direct participation, the Kimako-Kipchak proto-state association began taking shape in the Upper Irtysh River region in the 7th century AD. The initial stage of this process, features of the funeral rite, and characteristic elements of the material culture of the population living in the region are almost unknown due to insufficient exploration of the monuments of the devel-opmental stage of this polyethnic formation. The paper describes the materials of the barrow cemetery of Menov-noye XII, located in the territory of the Upper Irtysh River, 2.1 km southeast of the village of Menovnoye, Tavrichesky district, East Kazakhstan Province. Under the barrow mound, there was a fence with outbuildings containing burials of a man, two horses, and two dogs. The central burial was robbed. The sacrificial pit, located north of the main grave, contained the burial of two horses, laid on their stomachs with their legs tucked under their bodies and with their heads oriented to the east. The buried person was accompanied by two dogs: one was laid across the ceiling of the grave, while the other was buried in a separate pit in an additional annex. The grave goods found with the deceased represented by astragali, a bronze ring, and a fragment of an iron arrowhead. The horse harness included stirrups and iron bits. The bridle belts were adorned with bronze items: bells, triplet plaques, bronze onlays, and belt tip ends. Bronze buckles with iron tongues, which were tucked into clips, were used to adjust the tension of the headband straps. The funeral rite features and analysis of the materials collected during the study of the memorial complex make it possible to associate the burials of the 3rd barrow of the Menov-noye XII with the Early Kimak antiquities within the framework of the Turkic era and to date them to the second half of the 7th — 8th century AD.
Nutcracker syndrome - a mini review on current knowledge
Authors: Kramek Jakub Tomasz , Krasiński Zbigniew , Stępak Hubert
Published: September 2021

Nutcracker syndrome (NCS) seems to be an under-diagnosed condition defined as external compression of the left renal vein and consequent blood outflow impairment. The majority of cases involve the left renal vein entrapment between abdominal aorta and the superior mesenteric artery. The exact epidemiology is unknown due to lack of consensus on diagnostic criteria and often asymptomatic courses. NCS may occur at any age with peak presentation in the second and third decade of life. There is a slight prevalence in females. The most frequent presentations include micro and macroscopic hematuria, orthostatic proteinuria, orthostatic hypotension, flank pain. Patients may develop pelvic congestion syndrome comprising dyspareunia, dysmenorrhea, abdominal pain, pelvic, gluteal, vulvar varicose veins and varicocele in men. Clinical suspicion of NCS based on signs and symptoms, requires imaging confirmation utilising modalities such as doppler ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance angiography, intravascular ultrasound and phlebography. Treatment options of NCS range from conservative surveillance to nephrectomy, thus appropriate approach should be based on clinical manifestation and severity of symptoms. Patients presenting with mild to moderate haematuria, and acceptable symptoms should be treated conservatively. In cases of severe symptoms or when conservative management fails, invasive treatment should be considered. Recommended open surgical procedures include left renal vein distal transposition and renal autotransplantation. Endovascular stenting approach seems to be an encouraging solution.  Further long term follow-up is required to create objective treatment guidelines.
App-assured essential physical activity for the prevention of cognitive decline: changing paradigms in public health – a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Jamka Małgorzata , Makarewicz Aleksandra , Wasiewicz-Gajdzis Maria , Brylak Jan , Wielińska-Wiśniewska Hanna , Pawlak Zuzanna , Nowak Jan Krzysztof , Herzig Karl-Heinz , Mądry Edyta , Walkowiak Jarosław
Published: September 2021

This study aims to assess the effect of an increase in daily physical activity to prevent cognitive decline, sustain brain volumes and maintain healthy biomarker levels in previously inactive (< 7,000 steps/day) mild cognitive impairment (MCI) subjects aged 50-65 years. In total, 198 subjects with MCI (assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment test) will be recruited and randomised into two groups: active and passive. The active group will be instructed, encouraged and motivated to increase their physical activity to a moderate level (≥ 10,000 steps/day), while the passive group should maintain their normal activity levels. All subjects will undergo cognitive assessment, neuroimaging and biomarker tests before and after a one-year intervention. During the intervention, physical activity will be measured by the Fitbit Inspire HR wristband. The study was registered in the German Clinical Trials Register database (registration no. DRKS00020943, date of registration: 09.03.2020, protocol version: 1.0).
Circulatory collapse after sheath removal in transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Iwata Shihoko , Ozaki Makoto
Published: September 2021

An 87-year-old woman (146 cm, 42.2 kg) underwent transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TF-TAVI) uneventfully. Following the removal of the delivery sheath and achieving access-site haemostasis, hemodynamic instability became gradually obvious. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed free fluid in the retroperitoneal and intraabdominal cavities, suggestive of retroperitoneal haemorrhage (RPH), which perforated the abdominal cavity with extravasation of the contrast material (arrow), thus indicating an ongoing haemorrhage. The damaged site of the external iliac artery (arrow) was confirmed using digital subtraction angiography. The patient successfully underwent emergency endovascular aortic repair using a covered stent to seal the vascular rupture. In order to treat the abdominal compartment syndrome, approximately 2,700 ml of haemorrhagic fluid was evacuated using ultrasound-guided abdominal paracentesis. Eventually, she was discharged in a stable condition.
RPH is a rare, although severe, complication of TF-TAVI, and has been reported in 0%–2.2% of cases. It is associated with a damage to iliofemoral artery, and constitutes the most frequent complication associated with vascular access, with the main predictive factors being the dimensions of small vessels, moderate or severe calcification, and centre experience. The diagnosis of RPH is often delayed due to the non-specific clinical presentations, such as flank, abdominal, back pain, and/or progressive hemodynamic instability. Although the best management protocol for RPH remains controversial, conservative management should only be applied in stable patients. In cases of uncontrollable, ongoing bleeding, endovascular treatment or embolization should be the method of choice. Open surgical intervention is rarely require. Nevertheless, if treated inappropriately, the mortality rates remain high.
Qualitative Data Collection under the ‘New Normal’ in Zimbabwe
Authors: Ndhlovu Emmanuel
Published: September 2021

The newly discovered coronavirus (COVID-19) has disrupted traditional methods of conducting research, particularly qualitative research. However, there remains a number of methods by which qualitative data can still be collected. These include the use of digital voice, video, and text-based tools, online surveys, and content analysis. Text-based sources can help to overcome the limitations of time and space, and also can be cost-effective. This chapter draws from data collected from 12 participants across Zimbabwe and demonstrates how these tools can be used to generate data or to sample data that is already available to satisfy research questions and meet research objectives. It recommends researchers to experiment with new ways of collecting qualitative data while also observing safety protocols and ethical considerations.
Endometriosis Etiology: Hypothesis of Maternal Microchimerism
Authors: Barad Tanya
Published: September 2021

Endometriosis is an oestrogen-dependant reproductive disease, with genetic, vascular, neural, inflammatory and auto-immune characteristics. There are many theories about the etiology of endometriosis, however, all of these theories have limitations and do not explain all the locations that endometriosis is found or types of patients with endometriosis. The objective of this paper is to postulate the hypothesis that endometriosis is caused by Maternal Microchimerism, the presence of maternal cells in the fetus. A literature review was conducted, analysing the characteristics, current etiological theories of endometriosis, theory limitations and relationship of maternal microchimerism and endometriosis. At time of writing, there was no literature on maternal microchimerism and endometriosis. These results suggest that Maternal Microchimerism could be a cause of endometriosis. This could account for the genetic and auto-immune characteristics seen in people with endometriosis, inducing a micro-environment for vascular, neural and epigenetic changes. This could also account for account for endometriosis seen in non-menstruating patients, such as men, fetuses and post-menopausal women and endometriosis found in non-peritoneal locations. If the hypothesis of Maternal Microchimerism is correct, endometriosis could be considered a pregnancy-related disease that could affect all humans, changing the accepted demographics of patients and potentially new diagnostic techniques and treatment options for patients with endometriosis. Further studies are needed to test this hypothesis.
The Pseudo-Symmetric N-benzyl Hydroxyethylamine Core in a New Series of Heteroarylcarboxyamide HIV-1 Pr Inhibitors: Synthesis, Molecular Modeling and Biological Evaluation
Authors: D'Orsi Rosarita , Funicello Maria , Lupattelli Paolo , Berti Federico , Chiummiento Lucia
Published: September 2021

New series of compounds containing both heterocycle moieties and pseudo-symmetric hydroxyethylamine core were obtained using a simple synthetic path that can provide a library of compounds in few steps and high yields. Furthermore, diversity-oriented synthesis was studied to change different functionalities according to needs. The in vitro inhibition activity against recombinant HIV-1 protease was evaluated. A beneficial effect of this class of compounds can be obtained either for the presence of a bis-benzyl group into the core and for the heterocyclic moiety in P1, specifically the indole ring. Docking analysis was also reported.
Revisit the Cellular Transmission and Emerging Techniques in Proteinopathies
Authors: Jiang JIngwen , Liu Yu , Wu Qihui
Published: September 2021

Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's diseases (AD and PD) are amongst top of the prevalent neurodegenerative disease. One-third of PD patients are diagnosed with dementia, a pre-symptom of AD, but the underlying mechanism is elusive. Amyloid beta (Aβ) and α-synuclein are two of the most investigated proteins, whose pathological aggregation and spreading are crucial to the pathogenesis of AD and PD, respectively. Transcriptomic studies of the mammalian central nervous system shed light on gene expression profiles at molecular levels, regarding the complexity of neuronal morphologies and electrophysiological inputs/outputs. In the last decade, the booming of the single-cell RNA sequencing technique helped to understand gene expression patterns, alternative splicing, novel transcripts, and signal pathways in the nervous system at single-cell levels, providing insight for molecular taxonomy and mechanistic targets of the degenerative nervous system. Here, we re-visited the cell-cell transmission mechanisms of Aβ and α-synuclein in medi-ating disease propagation, and summarized recent single-cell transcriptome sequencing from different perspectives and discussed its understanding of neurodegenerative diseases.
Comparative Research of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Stainless-Structural Steel Dissimilar Welds
Authors: Baskutis Saulius , Baskutiene Jolanta , Bendikiene Regita , Ciuplys Antanas , Dutkus Karolis
Published: September 2021

The present study utilizes a metal inert gas welding (MIG) to make a dissimilar weld joint of different stainless steel grades AISI 304, 314, 316L, 420 and a standard structural steel S355MC to estimate the correlation of a microstructure and the mechanical properties. The microstructure of the base metals (BM), the heat affected zone (HAZ), the fusion zone (FZ) and the weld seam were analyzed using optical microscopy. Optical microscopy did not reveal any presence of weld defects such as porosity or cracks. The analysis of microstructure showed that both the austenitic and martensitic stainless steel weld structures contain some retained delta ferrite and coarse Me23C6 carbides in the HAZ, while the FZ exhibits delta ferrite and some retained austenite. The hardness profiles revealed difference between austenitic and martensitic steel welds that the later showed extremely high values in the HAZ (~500 HV/0.1) which causes fracture in this zone. The welds of all austenitic steel grades withstood tensile test, showing the average tensile strength of 472 MPa with fracture observed in the base metal zone. It made clear that the use of a filler rod 308LSI is suitable only for the austenitic stainless and structural steel dissimilar welds, and not appropriate for martensitic-structural steel welds. The achieved results revealed that the higher hardness of the martensitic phase in the HAZ of AISI 420 is closely related with the formation of untempered coarse martensitic structure and higher carbon content.
ZRO Drift Reduction of MEMS Gyroscopes via Internal and Packaging Stress Release
Authors: Xu Pengfei , Wei Zhenyu , Jia Lu , Zhao Yongmei , Han Guowei , Si Chaowei , Ning Jin , Yang Fuhua
Published: September 2021

Zero-rate output (ZRO) drift induces deteriorated micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) gy-roscope performances, severely limiting its practical applications. Hence, it is vital to explore an effective method toward ZRO drift reduction. In this work, we conduct an elaborate investigation on the impacts of the internal and packaging stresses on the ZRO drift at the thermal start-up stage, and propose a temperature-induced stress release method to reduce the duration and magnitude of ZRO drift. Self-developed high-Q dual mass tuning fork gyroscopes (TFGs) are adopted to study the correlations between temperature, frequency and ZRO drift. Furthermore, a rigorous finite element simulation model is built based on the actual device and packaging structure, revealing the temperature and stresses distribution inside TFGs. Meanwhile, the relationship between temperature and stresses are deeply explored. Moreover, we introduce a temperature-induced stress release process to generate thermal stresses and reduce the temperature-related device sensitivity. By this way, the ZRO drift duration is drastically reduced from ~2000 s to ~890 s, and the drift magnitude decreases from ~0.4 °/s to ~0.23 °/s. This stress release method achieves a small bias instability (BI) of 7.903 °/h and a low angle random walk (ARW) of 0.792 °/√h, and the long-term bias performance is significantly improved.
IoT application for vehicles identification using the Optical Fiber Sensors and Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Khlaifi Hacen , Zrelli Amira , Ezzedine Tahar
Published: September 2021

Due to the renewed variation in government and political systems inside and outside countries, and with the high tariffs at borders, the latter have become an outlet for terrorism and smugglers. Therefore, each country seeks to develop its own protection system, and the technologies used in these systems vary according to the severity and the importance of the installations to be protected, it is found that some of them are expensive and unnecessary, but other have good and variable levels of efficiency. Consequently, the idea of designing a surveillance system that can monitor and control access becomes indispensable. In the same context, this work is of crucial strategic and geopolitical importance. It combines pre-existing alarm and monitoring methods and revolutionary Internet of Things (IoT) application products, of which Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) and Optical Fiber Sensors (OFS) are part of this application. This article presents the distribution of wireless radar nodes accompanying with a Bragg fiber sensor to identify each rolling intruder incoming the zone to be monitored, from the determination of its speed, weight and wheelbase distance.
COVID-19 Diagnosis by 5-second Facial Video Processing Using Vibraimage and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Minkin Viktor , Akimov Valery
Published: September 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic spreads in waves for a year and a half, despite significant worldwide efforts, the development of biochemical diagnostic methods and population vaccination. One of the reasons for the infection spread is the impossibility of early disease detection through biochemical diagnostics, since biochemical processes slowly develop in a body. At the same time, well known that behavioral characteristics of a person, measured based on reflex movements, are capable for inertialess assessment of psychophysiological parameters. Vibraimage technology is the method of head micromovements video processing by inter-frame difference accumulation and converting spatial and temporal characteristics of the inter-frame difference into behavioral and psychophysiological parameters. Here we shown that behavioral parameters measured by vibraimage changed during COVID-19 infection. The identification of changes signs in behavioral parameters detected by AI trained on patients and controls. The best diagnostic accuracy (higher 94%) obtained using instantaneous values of behavioral parameters measured with the following vibraimage settings: 10Hz frequency of basic measurements; 25 inter-frame difference accumulations and averaging the diagnostic results over period of at least 5 seconds. COVID-19 diagnoses by behavioral parameters showed earlier (5-7 days) detection of the disease compared to symptoms and positive results of biochemical RT-PCR testing. Proposed method for COVID-19 diagnosis indicates infected persons within 5 seconds video processing using standard television cameras (web, IP) and computers, allows mass testing/selftesting and will stop the pandemic spread. We assume that head micromovements analysis for diagnosis of various diseases is possible not only with the help of vibraimage technology. Further research of human head micromovement analysis will help stop the COVID-19 pandemic and will contribute to the development of new contactless and environmentally friendly methods for early diagnosis of diseases.
Intelligent Modelling of Learning Patterns in Tertiary Education Setting
Authors: Tuyishimire Emmanuel , Mabuto Wadzanai , Gatabazi Paul , Bayisingize Sylvie
Published: September 2021

We are in the era where various processes need to be online. However, data from digital learning platforms are still underutilised in higher education, yet, they contain student learning patterns, whose awareness would contribute to educational development. This limits development of adaptive teaching and learning mechanisms. In this paper, a model for data exploitation to dynamically study students progress is proposed. Variables to determine current students progress are defined and are used to group students into different clusters. K-means clustering is performed on real data consisting of students from a South African tertiary institution. Cluster migration is analysed and the corresponding learning patterns are revealed.
Linear Ubiquitination Mediates EGFR-Induced NF-kB Pathway and Tumor Development
Authors: Hua Fang , Hap Wenzhuo , Wang Lingyan , Li Shitao
Published: September 2021

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a receptor tyrosine kinase that instigates several signaling cascades, including the NF-kB signaling pathway, to induce cell differentiation and proliferation. Overexpression and mutations of EGFR are found in up to 30% of solid tumors and correlate with a poor prognosis. Although it is known that EGFR-mediated NF-kB activation is involved in tumor development, the signaling axis is not well elucidated. Here, we found that PKP2 and the LUBAC complex were required for EGFR-mediated NF-kB activation. Upon EGF stimulation, EGFR recruited PKP2 to the plasma membrane, and PKP2 bridged HOIP, the catalytic E3 ubiquitin ligase in the LUBAC, to the EGFR complex. The recruitment activated the LUBAC complex and the linear ubiquitination of NEMO, leading to IkB phosphorylation and subsequent NF-kB activation. Furthermore, EGF-induced linear ubiquitination was critical for tumor cell proliferation and tumor development. Knockout of HOIP impaired EGF-induced NF-kB activity and reduced cell proliferation. HOIP knockout also abrogated the growth of A431 epidermal xenograft tumors in nude mice by more than 70%. More importantly, the HOIP inhibitor, HOIPIN-8, inhibited EGFR-mediated NF-kB activation and cell proliferation of A431, MCF-7, and MDA-MB-231 cancer cells. Overall, our study reveals a novel linear ubiquitination signaling axis of EGFR, and perturbation of HOIP E3 ubiquitin ligase activity is potential targeted cancer therapy.
Field site analysis of giant salvinia nitrogen content and salvinia weevil density
Authors: Nachtrieb Julie
Published: September 2021

In 2012, a giant salvinia (Salvinia molesta Mitchell) biological control project was initiated in Louisiana. Although similar quantities of salvinia weevils (Cyrtobagous salviniae Calder and Sands) were released at all sites, weevil densities were highly variable among sites. Additionally, signs of plant nitrogen depletion (yellowing plants) were observed at some sites. Because it is well known that plant nutrition can affect the success of a biocontrol agent because of slowed development and/or reduced fecundity, the correlation between giant salvinia nitrogen content and Salvinia weevil density was investigated during the growing seasons of the second and fourth years. During 2013, weevils were reintroduced to sites, and the magnitude of adult weevil density increase varied by site. Giant salvinia nitrogen content varied among sites and sampling dates. Upper Big Break plants had greater nitrogen than all other sites during 75% of sampling dates. Additionally, adult and larval densities were significantly correlated to plant nitrogen content. During 2015, trends were less distinct and weevil densities and nitrogen content varied based on the interaction between sampling date and site, but a significant correlation was not detected. Results from 1-yr of a 2-yr study confirmed published reports of the importance of plant nitrogen content to salvinia weevil productivity. Additional studies are warranted to evaluate and understand the role of nitrogen at giant salvinia biocontrol field sites.
Efficacy of florpyrauxifen-benzyl for eurasian watermilfoil control and nontarget Illinois pondweed, elodea, and coontail response
Authors: Mudge Christopher , Sartain Bradley , Sperry Benjamin , Getsinger Kurt
Published: September 2021

This research evaluated low concentrations and short exposure times of the recently registered aquatic herbicide florpyrauxifen-benzyl (4-amino-3-chloro-6-(4-chloro-2-fluoro-3-methoxyphenyl)-5-fluoro-pyridine-2-benzyl ester) on the target plant Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum L., hereafter referred to as EWM) as well as selectivity towards the nontarget submersed species Illinois pondweed (Potamogeton illinoensis Morong), elodea (Elodea canadensis Michx.), and coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum L.)
Survive, Revive, Thrive: Chapter 11—Flank Speed
Authors: Blasingame Tom
Published: September 2021

Either move or be moved. - Ezra Pound, American poet, 1885–1972

Flank Speed (a ship’s maximum speed)

Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved. - Helen Keller, American author, 1880–1968 (she was blind and deaf from birth)

I will be uncharacteristically brief: if there were ever a time for operating at maximum capacity/capability, then this is it. I ask that everyone reading this column think of 10 tasks/ideas/concepts that they can perform right now that will change their trajectory (and hopefully SPE’s as well), distill those 10 tasks to three, and commit like your life depends on it to performing at least one of those tasks in the next 6–12 months.

Call it homework if you want, but every person reading this column can create, innovate, and deliver some task/idea/concept that will significantly benefit our industry. Don’t say you have more important things to do—this is your profession and your passion. Get started, push directly to flank speed, and get it done. Then move to the next idea on your list. SPE needs its member contributions as never before.

SPE and You

Democracy is finding proximate solutions to insoluble problems. - Reinhold Niebuhr, American theologian, 1892–1971

It is very easy to sit on the fence, but sooner or later the post will hurt you where it counts. You must do something constructive in this life to be alive. More simply, in the words of the British clergyman John Henry Newman, “Growth is the only evidence of life.”

SPE must grow its missions, but its missions must also include what we do now to prepare for the foreseeable future. Energy transition is not a fad; it is a critical path we as an industry and as a professional society must pursue to provide energy for all.

Oil and gas are simultaneously our most secure energy resources, as well as our “battery backup” for situations where renewable options are either unavailable or impractical. Energy sustainability will evolve (I guarantee it), but let’s never forget what will pave the way to that sustainable and renewable energy future—oil and gas. Every conceivable product that is part of the energy transition is either fueled by or dependent on oil and gas as raw materials.

Regardless of how you feel about SPE as a professional organization, it cannot and will not grow into what it must become without your volunteerism and your engagement. I understand that “change=pain,” but we are in a different world now. We can choose to be patient (wait and see what happens), pause (basically be in a state of paralysis), or we can pivot, which is to say that we can push or change/evolve to another path. It is complicated, because in the last year on an individual basis most if not all, of us have done all three.
3D Geological Model Creates Potential for Increased Production in Libyan Field
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: September 2021

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 201417, “Reservoir Characterization and Geostatistical Model of the Cretaceous and Cambrian-Ordovician Reservoir Intervals, Meghil Field, Sirte Basin, Libya,” by Mohamed Masoud, Sirte Oil Company; W. Scott Meddaugh, SPE, Midwestern State University; and Masud Eljaroshi Masud, Sirte Oil Company, prepared for the 2020 SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition, originally scheduled to be held in Denver, Colorado, 5–7 October. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

The study outlined in the complete paper focuses on developing models of the Upper Cretaceous Waha carbonate and Bahi sandstone reservoirs and the Cambrian-Ordovician Gargaf sandstone reservoir in the Meghil field, Sirte Basin, Libya. The objective of this study is to develop a representative geostatistically based 3D model that preserves geological elements and eliminates uncertainty of reservoir properties and volumetric estimates. This study demonstrates the potential for significant additional hydrocarbon production from the Meghil field and the effect of heterogeneity on well placement and spacing.

Introduction

The reservoir of interest consists of three stratigraphic layers of different ages: the Waha and Bahi Formations and the Gargaf Group intersecting the Meghil field. The Waha reservoir is a porous limestone that forms a single reservoir with underlying Upper Cretaceous Bahi sandstone and Cambro-Ordovician Gargaf Group quartzitic sandstone. The Waha provides excel-lent reservoir characteristics. The Bahi has fair to good reservoir characteristics, while the Gargaf Group has very poor reservoir quality. The Waha and Bahi contain significant amounts of hydrocarbons. The Bahi is composed of erratically distributed detritus from the eroded Gargaf Group. The characteristic of the Gargaf sediments is quartzitic sandstones indurate to a quartzite with low reservoir quality.
Economic Comparison of Alternatives for a Stranded Offshore Gas Reservoir
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: September 2021

This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper OTC 30732, “Economic Feasibility Study of Several Usage Alternatives for a Stranded Offshore Gas Reservoir,” by Khoi Viet Trinh, SPE, and Rouzbeh G. Moghanloo, SPE, University of Oklahoma, prepared for the 2020 Offshore Technology Conference, originally scheduled to be held in Houston, 4–7 May. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2020 Offshore Technology Conference. Reproduced by permission.

This paper compares economics of a floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) project with those of an onshore LNG plant and gas-to-wire (GTW) processes. Sensitivity analyses and tornado charts are used to evaluate the importance of various uncertain parameters associated with FLNG construction and operation. This study will be helpful for future considerations in using FLNG to convert offshore gas reservoirs previously considered stranded into economically viable resources. The results from this economic model can play a key role in the future of the natural gas industry and energy market in West Africa.

Assumptions

Before presenting different economic scenarios, the following assumptions must be established:

* The pipeline will have the correct diameter, pressure rating, and metallurgy to transport produced gas. Only the pipe length will be considered a variable.

* Operating expenses (OPEX) of both onshore LNG and FLNG will be the same. Realistically, however, OPEX of FLNG will be different from that of onshore LNG.

* A subsidy from the Nigerian government has been obtained for the onshore LNG plant.

* The electricity price is assumed to be $0.25/kWh.

* An assumed upstream cost of $2/Mscf to cover onshore LNG gas pretreatment is assumed.

* The onshore LNG plant and FLNG will have the same lifespan. However, in reality, availability of FLNG can be lower than that of onshore LNG.

Pricing Models

FNLG. Because of the relative recency of FNLG, few pricing models have been readily available. For the complete paper, Shell’s Prelude project is the basis for pricing of FLNG. Prelude costs averaged out to approximately $14 billion, which will be used as the cost of the facility for the FLNG scenario in the economic analysis.
Mediation effect of obesity on the association between triglyceride-glucose index and hyperuricemia in Chinese hypertension adults.
Authors: Sun Jin , Su Yongkang , Li Man , Ma Shouyuan , Zhang Yan , Zhang Anhang , Cai Shuang , Cheng Bokai , Bao Qiligeer , Wang Shuxia , Zhu Ping
Published: September 2021

Background and Aims: The triglyceride glucose (TyG) index was regarded as a simple surrogate marker of insulin resistance (IR). It is confirmed that IR was significantly associated with hyperuricemia, and obesity was the risk factor for IR and hyperuricemia. However, the relationship between the TyG index and hyperuricemia and the potential role of obesity in Han Chinese hypertension are not entirely elucidated.Methods and Results： A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 4551 hypertension patients aged 40-75 years with clinical and biochemical data. The TyG index was calculated as ln [fasting triglyceride (mg/dl) × fasting blood glucose (mg/dl)/2]. Hyperuricemia was determined as serum uric acid ≥357μmol/L (6 mg/dl) for females and ≥417μmol/L (7 mg/dl) for males. The TyG index was higher in patients with hyperuricemia than in those without (8.99±0.61, 8.70±0.59, P<0.001). The prevalence of hyperuricemia in patients with the lowest (≤8.32), second (8.33-8.66), third (8.67-9.07) and the highest quartile (≥9.08) of the TyG index was 6.0%, 10.4%, 15.4%, 21.4%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis suggested that the higher quartile of TyG index was associated with increased hyperuricemia risk whether in crude or adjusted models (P<0.05). Mediation analysis showed that all of our obesity indexes partially mediated the association between the TyG index and hyperuricemia to some extent.Conclusion：TyG index is significantly associated with hyperuricemia in hypertension patients among Han Chinese, obesity plays a partial mediation role in this relationship.
Ultrahigh Strength and Shear-Assisted Decohesion of Sliding Silver Nanocontacts Studied in situ
Authors: Sato Takaaki , Milne Zachary , Nomura Masahiro , Sasaki Naruo , Carpick Robert , Fujita Hiroyuki
Published: September 2021

The behavior of materials in sliding contact is challenging to determine since the interface is normally hidden from view. Using a custom microfabricated device, we conducted in situ, ultrahigh vacuum transmission electron microscope measurements of crystalline silver nanocontacts under combined tension and shear, permitting simultaneous observation of contact forces and contact width. While classically, silver exhibits substantial sliding-induced plastic junction growth, the nanocontacts exhibit only limited plastic deformation despite high applied stresses. This difference arises from the nanocontacts’ high strength, as we find the von Mises stresses at yield points approach the ideal strength of silver. We attributed this to the nanocontacts’ nearly defect-free nature and small size. The contacts also separate unstably, with pull-off forces well below classical predictions for rupture under pure tension. This provides in situ confirmation that shearing reduces nanoscale pull-off forces, consistent with recent theoretical predictions but never before directly observed.
A Novel Variant in FOXC1 Associated With Atypical Axenfeld-Rieger Syndrome
Authors: Wang Rui , Wang Wei-Qian , Li Xiao-Qin , Zhao Juan , Yang Kun , Feng Yong , Guo Meng-Meng , Liu Min , Liu Xing , Wang Xi , Gao Xue , Xu Jin-Cao
Published: September 2021

Background
Mutations in the Forkhead Box C1 (FOXC1) are known to cause autosomal dominant hereditary Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome, which is a genetic disorder characterized by ocular and systemic features including glaucoma, variable dental defects, craniofacial dysmorphism and hearing loss. Due to late-onset of ocular disorders and lack of typical presentation, therefore, clinical diagnosis present a huge challenge.
Results
In this study, we described a pathogenic variant in FOXC1 in one 5 year-old boy who is presented with hypertelorism, pupil deformation in both eyes, conductive hearing loss, and dental defects. By whole exome sequencing, we identified a 3bp deletion in FOXC1, c.516_518delGCG (p.Arg173del) as the disease-causing variant, which was de novo and not detected in the parents, and could be classified as a “pathogenic variant” according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines. After confirmation of this FOXC1 variant, clinical data on Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome-associated clinical features were collected and analyzed. Although the affected individual present hearing loss, however, the hearing loss is conductive and is reversible during the follow-up, which might not linked to the FOXC1 variant and is coincidental.
Conclusions
Routine examination of FOXC1 is necessary for the genetic diagnosis of hypertelorism-associated syndrome. These findings may assist clinicians in reaching correct clinical and molecular diagnoses, and providing appropriate genetic counseling.
Randomised Clinical Trial: Effect of Adding Branched Chain Amino Acids to Exercise and Standard-of-care on Muscle Mass in Cirrhotic Patients With Sarcopenia
Authors: Mohta Srikant , Anand Abhinav , Sharma Sanchit , Qamar Sumaira , Agarwal Samagra , Gunjan Deepak , Singh Namrata , Madhusudhan Kumble Seetarama , Pandey Ravindra Mohan , Saraya Anoop
Published: September 2021

BackgroundsThe role of branched chain amino acids (BCAA) in improving muscle mass in cirrhosis is presently debatable. AimsTo evaluate the role of BCAA in improving the muscle mass in a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial in patients with cirrhosis having sarcopenia.Methods Consecutive patients with cirrhosis with Child Pugh score<10 and sarcopenia were randomized to receive either 12g/day of BCAA orally or a placebo(1:1) for 6 months in addition to a home-based exercise program(30 minutes/day), dietary counselling and standard medical therapy. Sarcopenia was defined according to gender-specific axial skeletal muscle index(SMI) cut-offs. The primary end point was change in muscle mass based on CT scan(SMI) after 6 months of supplementation.ResultsSixty patients (mean age 41.6±9.9 years; males(66.6%) of predominantly viral(40%) and alcohol-related(31.7%) cirrhosis were randomized. Baseline clinical and demographic characters were similar except MELD score (10.2 ± 2.8 vs. 12.2 ± 3.5, p=0.02) and calorie intake (1838.1kcal ± 631.5 vs. 2217.5kcal ± 707.3, p=0.03), both being higher in the placebo arm. After adjusting for both baseline confounders, baseline SMI and protein intake, the change in SMI at 6 months was similar in both groups [mean adjusted difference(MAD) +0.84, CI -2.9; +1.2, p=0.42] by intention-to-treat analysis. The secondary outcomes including change in hand grip strength(p=0.65), 6-meter gait speed(p=0.20), 6-minute walk distance(p=0.39) were similar in both arms. Four patients had minor adverse events in each arm.ConclusionAddition of BCAA to exercise, dietary counselling and standard medical therapy did not improve muscle mass in patients with cirrhosis having sarcopenia. (CTRI/2019/05/019269).
Exosomal miR-301a-3p from Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells Promotes Angiogenesis by Inducing M2 Polarization of Macrophages via the PTEN/PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway
Authors: Shou Yuwei , Wang Xiaoqian , Chen Chao , Liang Yinghao , Yang Chenbo , Xiao Qiankun , Li Hui , Wang Shuaiyuan , Shu Jiao , Tian Xiangyu , Chen Kuisheng
Published: September 2021

Background: Growing evidence has indicated that tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) promote tumor angiogenesis. However, the mechanisms underlying the pro-angiogenic switch of TAMs remains unclear. Here, we examined how exosomal miR-301a-3p secreted by esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells triggers the pro-angiogenic switch of TAMs.Methods: We quantified miR-301a-3p levels in ESCC tumors using qRT-PCR. Macrophage phenotypes were identified using flow cytometry and qRT-PCR. The pro-angiogenic ability of TAMs was measured using the CCK-8 assay, scratch assay, Transwell migration and invasion assay, and tube formation assay. The mechanism by which exosomal miR-301a-3p secreted by ESCC cells triggers the pro-angiogenic switch of TAMs was elucidated using western blots, qRT-PCR, and a dual-luciferase reporter assay.Results: We observed anomalous miR-301a-3p overexpression in ESCC tumor tissues and cell lines. Then, we verified that ESCC-derived exosomes promoted angiogenesis by inducing macrophage polarization into M2 type, and exosomal miR-301a-3p secreted by ESCC cells was responsible for this effect. Finally, we discovered that exosomal miR-301a-3p promoted M2 macrophage polarization via the inhibition of PTEN and activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, subsequently promoting angiogenesis via the secretion of VEGFA and MMP9.Conclusion: The pro-angiogenic switch of TAMs is triggered by exosomal miR-301a-3p secreted from ESCC cells via the PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Although tumor angiogenesis can be regulated by a wide range of factors, exosomal miR-301a-3p could hold promise as a novel anti-angiogenesis target for ESCC treatment.
Effect of Physiological Status And Parity On Metabolic And Trace Elements Profile of Crossbred Rambouillet Sheep of Himalayan Region
Authors: SINGH RAJIV , SINGH A , BEIGH S A , SHARMA N , SINGH V
Published: September 2021

The study was designed to evaluate the effect of physiological status and parity on metabolic profile in crossbred Rambouillet ewes of Himalyan region. The study was conducted on 20 ewes divided into two groups, primiparous (PP) and multiparous (MP) with 10 ewes in each group. Blood samples were collected on 4- and 1-week pre-lambing and 1- and 4-weeks post-lambing to measure metabolic parameters and minerals. The glucose(p<0.01), Total plasma protein (TPP) (p<0.05), albumin (p<0.05), BUN (p<0.05), cholesterol (p<0.05), triglyceride (p<0.01), HDL-C (P<0.05), Calcium (p<0.01), Phosphours (p<0.05), Magnesium (p<0.01), Cu (p<0.05), and Zn (p<0.01) levels revealed significant change along the time with the concentration decreasing 3 weeks pre lambing to immediate post lambing thereafter levels increased steadily. Significant increase (P<0.01) was observed in NEFA, AST, GGT, Iron(P<0.05), and bilirubin (P<0.05) concentrations along the sampling time. No group difference was observed in any of the parameters however, parity and time interaction was observed in Glucose, NEFA, GGT, calcium, and phosphorus. While NEFA levels were significantly high in pre-lambing in PP ewes compared to MP ewes, the post-lambing levels were significantly high in MP ewes. Pre-lambing levels of GGT were at par between the two groups; however, post-lambing levels were significantly high in MP ewes. Glucose, Ca and Pi were low during pre-lambing in PP ewes and post-lambing in MP ewes. The result showed that ewes shows a significant change in metabolic profile and trace minerals during late gestation and immediate post-partum, however these changes were more pronounced during late gestation in primiparous and post lambing in multiparous.
Improving Prioritisation Processes for Clinical Practice Guidelines: New Methods and an Evaluation From the National Heart Foundation of Australia.
Authors: Atkins Brooke , Briffa Tom , Connell Cia , Buttery Amanda , Jennings Garry
Published: September 2021

BackgroundReleasing timely and relevant clinical guidelines is challenging for organisations globally. Priority setting is crucial as guideline development is resource intensive. Our aim, as a national organisation responsible for developing cardiovascular clinical guidelines, was to develop a method of generating and prioritising topics for future clinical guideline development in areas where guidance was most needed.MethodsSeveral novel processes were developed, adopted and evaluated including: 1) initial public consultation for health professionals and the general public to generate topics; 2) thematic and qualitative analysis, according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), to aggregate topics; 3) adapting a criteria-based matrix tool to prioritise topics; 4) achieving consensus through modified-nominal group technique and voting on priorities; and 5) process evaluation via survey of end-users. The latter was comprised of the organisation’s Expert Committee of 12 members with expertise across cardiology and public health, including two citizen representatives.ResultsTopics (n=405; reduced to n=278 when duplicates removed) were identified from public consultation responses (n=107 respondents). Thematic analysis synthesised 127 topics that were then categorised into 37 themes using ICD-11 codes. Exclusion criteria were applied (n=32 themes omitted), resulting in 5 short-listed topics: 1) congenital heart disease; 2) valvular heart disease; 3) hypercholesterolaemia, 4) hypertension and 5) ischaemic heart diseases and diseases of the coronary artery. The Expert Committee applied the prioritisation matrix to all five short-listed topics during a consensus meeting and voted to prioritise topics. Unanimous consensus was reached for the topic voted the highest priority: ischaemic heart disease and diseases of the coronary arteries, resulting in the decision to update the organisation’s 2016 clinical guidelines for acute coronary syndromes. Evaluation indicated that initial public consultation was highly valued by the Expert Committee, the matrix tool was easy to use and improved transparency in priority setting.ConclusionDeveloping a multistage, systematic process, incorporating public consultation, and an international classification system led to improved transparency in our clinical guideline priority setting processes and that topics chosen would have the greatest impact on health outcomes These methods are potentially applicable to other national and international organisations responsible for developing clinical guidelines.
High Expression of CXCL10/CXCR3 in Ventilator-Induced Lung Injury Caused by High Mechanical Power
Authors: Xie Yongpeng , Zheng Hui , Mou Zhifang , Wang Yanli , Li Xiaomin
Published: September 2021

Background: The energy delivered by a ventilator to the respiratory system in one minute is defined as mechanical power (MP). However, the effect of the ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) in patients suffering of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is still unknown. Our previous studies revealed that CXCL10 may be a potential biomarker of lung injury in ARDS. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the lung injury of rats and patients under different MP conditions to explore the involvement of CXCL10 and its receptor CXCR3 in VILI. Methods: Patients were divided into high mechanical power group (HMP) and low mechanical power group (LMP), while rats were assigned to the high mechanical power group (HMP), medium mechanical power group (MMP) and low mechanical power group (LMP). CXCL10 and CXCR3 plasma content in ARDS patients and rats under ventilation at different MP was measured, as well as their protein and mRNA expression in rat lungs. Results: CXCL10 and CXCR3 content in the plasma of ARDS patients in the HMP was significantly higher than that in the LMP. The increase of MP during mechanical ventilation in the rats gradually increased lung damage, and CXCL10 and CXCR3 level in rat plasma gradually increased with the increase of MP. CXCL10 and CXCR3 protein and mRNA expression in the HMP group and MMP group was significantly higher than that in the LMP group (P<0.05). More mast cells were present in the trachea, bronchus, blood vessels, and lymphatic system in the rat lungs of the HMP group and the number of mast cells in the HMP group (13.32±3.27) was significantly higher than that in the LMP group (3.25±0.29) (P＜0.05). Conclusion: The higher the MP, the more severe the lung injury, the higher CXCL10/CXCR3 expression. Therefore, CXCL10/CXCR3 might participate in VILI by mediating mast cell chemotaxis.