bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial Intelligence Unleashes Potential of Relative Permeability
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: August 2023

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 207855, “Unleashing the Potential of Relative Permeability Using Artificial Intelligence,” by Abdur Rahman Shah, SPE, Schlumberger; Kassem Ghorayeb, SPE, American University of Beirut; and Hussein Mustapha, Schlumberger, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

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To unlock the potential of large relative permeability (Kr) databases, the work flow proposed in the complete paper integrates data analysis, machine learning (ML), and artificial intelligence (AI). The work flow allows for the automated generation of a clean database and a digital twin of Kr data, using AI to identify analog data from nearby fields by extending the rock-typing scheme across multiple fields for the same formation.

Introduction

Accurate Kr curves are critical because they can improve reservoir characterization, reduce uncertainty in history matching and production forecasting, and provide robust and reliable field development plans. However, preparing special core analysis (SCAL) data, particularly Kr curves, as an input for reservoir simulation traditionally has been a highly manual, time-consuming, labor-intensive process. Furthermore, no automated tools are available currently that perform a full quality review of Kr data using analytical or numerical methods. As a result, the quality and representativeness of Kr data used in reservoir simulation models is frequently inadequately checked. Furthermore, no tools exist to generate Kr curves based on analog field data in fields where Kr data is either missing or scarce.

Integrated Work Flow

The solution discussed in this paper aims to address challenges and automate processes using a combination of conventional algorithms and ML. It begins with a thorough quality check and cleanup of Kr laboratory data before using analog data to build Kr curves for a specific field or reservoir. The latter is especially important considering the challenges that arise when attempting to build on analog field data in the presence of large, corporate, regional, or country-scale databases. The approach classifies rocks using ML-proxy rock typing, which is subsequently used to find Kr equivalents. After that, these analogs can be used to fill up any data gaps for reservoir simulation in any discipline.
Technology Focus: Unconventional and Tight Reservoirs (July 2023)
Authors: Walker Larissa
Published: August 2023

Unconventional reservoirs have always posed a myriad of engineering conundrums to solve to develop the vast resources contained in these challenging formations. Since the early 2000s, when macroeconomics and demand set the stage for “the great shale race,” energy companies have looked to technology to unlock these resources. As the demand for energy continues to increase, so does the sociopolitical demand that these resources be produced in a sustainable way. This reflective thought has defined this month’s selection of technical papers, each speaking to a different facet of this feature’s theme: unconventional reservoir development for a sustainable energy transition.

Starting with what we’ve learned with over 2 decades of unconventional exploration and development, there are many lessons the industry can apply across a wide variety of reservoir types and locations. The first paper highlighted this month speaks to the power of learning from others. From North America to the Middle East nations and on to the Asia Pacific region, companies have been able to trial quickly and pivot to new technologies by sharing learning from basin to basin. The Vaca Muerta in Argentina has benefited from associative learning in its journey from emerging basin to heartland resource for South America.

Big data is leading the way to innovation. By definition, unconventional reservoirs are burdened with poor permeability and, hence, require multiple wells or longer wells with multiple contact points to develop economic rates. This large data set means a large amount of information in a complex and heavily dependent matrix of wells and reservoir parameters. Digital technology has matured at an ever-increasing pace, enabling big data mining and harnessing understanding of these complex unconventional reservoirs. The second paper showcased this month shows an application of digital learning tools developed to place wells more efficiently in an intricate fluvial tight gas reservoir of mainland China.

Finally, the third paper selected for this month’s feature supports the idea of the fundamental center of unconventional technology being a breeding ground for innovation. Sustainability in the future of resource development presents the call for more and cleaner energy. The pioneering spirit of unconventionals is brimming with answers to that call through continued advancement of technology in novel ways.

Recommended additional reading at OnePetro: www.onepetro.org.

SPE 207394 First Successful Pilot Testing of Unconventional Reservoir in North Kuwait From Scratch to Productivity by Zamzam Mohammed Ahmed, Kuwait Oil Company, et al.

SPE 211129 A Machine-Learning-Based Accelerated Approach To Infer the Breakdown Pressure of Tight Rocks by Zeeshan Tariq, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, et al.

SPE 207906 Future-Proofing the Development of Unconventional Resources in UAE by Viannet Okouma Mangha, ADVOC, et al.
Study Investigates Conversion of Biomethane From CO2 and Biohydrogen
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: August 2023

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper IPTC 22744, “Accelerated Methanogenesis for the Conversion of Biomethane From Carbon Dioxide and Biohydrogen at Hyperthermophilic Conditions,” by Ivy C.C. Hsia, Petronas, and Mohd F.A. Wahab and Nur K.A. Jalil, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2023 International Petroleum Technology Conference. Reproduced by permission.

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Methanogenesis is the conversion of CO2 to methane (CH4) using microbes. In the context of CO2 usage, the process of methanogenesis using native microbes from a particular reservoir can be a very slow process without any external intervention. The study detailed in this complete paper investigates the use of agriculture byproducts such as palm oil mill effluent (POME) as substrates, along with potential microbial isolates that can produce biohydrogen at high temperatures. The authors write that stimulation of microbes using POME as substrate with hydrogen (H2)/CO2 supplementation is important in accelerating the rate and yield of CH4 production.

Introduction

The authors write that a population of microbes isolated from sludge of agriculture wastes, when given proper conditions and nutrients, was able to accelerate the rate of methanogenesis. POME is an agricultural byproduct from which a huge microbial community can be manipulated for methanogenesis, specifically for hydrogen production. This study incorporates the process of dark fermentation, using POME to generate hydrogen required to convert CO2 to CH4 in a syntrophic reaction at hyperthermophilic temperatures. Accounting for both the high reservoir temperatures (above 100°C) common to Malaysia and the temperature-tolerance limit of most microorganisms in general, the authors selected 70°C as the temperature to be studied. They write that, as their team studied a range of different temperatures, anaerobic microbes showed no production of biohydrogen and CH4 above 70°C.
Fracture Characterization Explores Potential of Phra Wihan Formation, Thailand
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: August 2023

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper IPTC 22845, “Fracture Characterization and Basement Reservoir Potential of Phra Wihan Formation in Southern Part of Uttaradit Province, Northern Thailand,” by Watcharapong Piewmoh, SPE, PTTEP, and Pitsanupong Kanjanapayont, Chulalongkorn University. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2023 International Petroleum Technology Conference. Reproduced by permission.

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The complete paper describes the characterization of fractures in the Mesozoic sandstones of the Phra Wihan Formation in northern Thailand. Fracture characterization of outcrop analogs is important to determine the potential of subsurface reservoirs. The methodology used field study and petrography analysis to determine the relationship of fractures and other structures such as bedding planes and fold geometry. In addition, microstructure analysis can assist in the evaluation of a reservoir’s potential.

Introduction

Basement reservoir sandstones are one of the main targets in a mature onshore oil field in Thailand. But most basement reservoirs of the onshore Tertiary basin are pre-Tertiary and are associated with low quality. Prediction of reservoir quality in low-porosity and -permeability conditions requires an understanding of fractures in the subsurface. Outcrop analogs are key in characterizing fractured reservoirs.

Geological Setting

The tectonic evolution of Thailand is detailed in the complete paper. The country’s primary geological provinces are subdivided into the following five components, from west to east:

- Sibumasu terrane

- Inthanon zone

- Sukhothai terrane

- Nan and Sra Keao sutures

- Indochina terrane

The Sibumasu and Indochina terranes are major continental masses that collided during the Devonian-Triassic. Two subparallel suture zones exist along the convergence between the Sibumasu and Indochina terranes; one is an accretionary complex defined by the Inthanon zone. Another is a closed back-arc basin defined by the Nan and Sra Keao sutures. The Sukhothai terrane is an island-arc system formed along the margin of the Indochina terrane.
Technology Focus: Subsea Systems (August 2023)
Authors: Johnston Colin
Published: August 2023

Emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic, and coupled with increasing activity for energy production, the latest focus on subsea systems indicates that the subsea industry is moving with the times, reflecting technology developments, and meeting overall society demands in terms of holistic energy supply. The papers reviewed and selected focus on key development areas—carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS); renewable energy applications; and subsea storage. Implementing subsea systems to meet energy demands maintains the traditional emphasis on reviewing, refining, and incrementally improving the techniques and technology applications of today. Such efforts have a huge bearing on the direction of subsea engineering, and the overall efficiency and effectiveness of subsea operations cannot be underestimated in their contribution to the energy mix. It is worth noting that, with the current focus on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, subsea developments are among the lowest in terms of GHG footprint per barrel of oil equivalent, reflective of application improvements over many decades. While not a solution to the overall energy challenges themselves, this is a good marker for where future offshore industry efforts are positioned with regard to the energy transition.

Specifically looking at the papers in review, we see carbon storage optimizing subsea development potential, adding to and incorporating existing technology as well as adapting it to optimize the massive potential of subsea CCUS storage, particularly in conjunction with near-shore CO2-production-intensive industries. In addition, with a nod toward the energy transition, the application of renewable energy to assist with reducing the GHG footprint of subsea operations is presented. Finally, from an efficiency point of view, as existing subsea systems approach all-electric operations, the parallel demand for increasing monitoring through improved sensing and communications is presented through analysis of all-optical subsea sensing capability with a potential effect on life-of-field efficiency.

I hope these selections will spur thoughts and affect how we as subsea engineers approach future developments for both hydrocarbon and energy-transition requirements.

Recommended additional reading at OnePetro: www.onepetro.org.

SPE 210910 Innovative Industry Lead Project for Renewables for Subsea Power by Ian Roger Crossland, Mocean Energy, et al.

SPE 205433 A Road Map for Renewable Energy Integration With Subsea Processing Systems by Juliano Pimentel, Aker Solutions, et al.

OTC 31294 Subsea Liquid Energy Storage—The Bridge Between Oil and Energy/Hydrogen by Kristian Mikalsen, National Oilwell Varco

OTC 32449 A New Subsea Station for Deep Gas Treatment Allowing Maximizationof Subsea Gas Fields Production by Paul Roland, Saipem, et al.
Velocity String Revives Production of Deep Gas Wells With Halite Deposition
Authors: Carpenter Chris
Published: August 2023

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This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 213501, “Reviving Production From Over 100 Deep Gas Wells Suffering From Halite Deposition in Oman Through Velocity String,” by Ahmed Al Rashdi, Babak Ghaempanah, and Amira Al Hijri, PDO, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed.

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The complete paper describes a scenario in which, following the reduction of system pressure through depletion compression, more than 150 deep gas wells began experiencing halite deposition. Many of the wells with this issue were also suffering from liquid loading. Velocity strings (VS) were installed as the primary means of gas‑well deliquefication. Many of these wells with VS showed no further halite deposition. Consequently, frequent freshwater bullheading (FWB) or cleanout with coiled tubing (CT) were no longer needed. This observation triggered the idea of creating synergy between gas‑well deliquefication and halite management through installation of VS.
Recovery of Paired T Cell Receptors from Single-cell Seq-Well Libraries
Authors: Tu Ang A. , Gierahn Todd M. , Monian Brinda , Morgan Duncan M. , Mehta Naveen K. , Ruiter Bert , Shreffler Wayne G. , Shalek Alex K. , Love J. Christopher
Published: August 2023

High-throughput 3’ single-cell RNA-Sequencing (scRNA-Seq) allows for cost-effective, detailed characterization of thousands of individual immune cells from healthy and diseased tissues. Current techniques, however, are limited in their ability to elucidate essential immune cell features, including the variable sequences of T cell receptors (TCRs) that confer antigen specificity in T cells. Here, we present an enrichment strategy that enables simultaneous analysis of TCR variable sequences and corresponding full transcriptomes from 3’ barcoded scRNA-Seq samples. This approach is compatible with common 3’ scRNA-Seq methods, and adaptable to processed samples post hoc. We applied the technique to resolve clonotype-to-phenotype relationships among antigen-activated T cells from immunized mice and from patients with food allergy. We observed diverse but preferential cellular phenotypes manifest among subsets of expanded clonotypes, including functional Th2 states associated with food allergy. These results demonstrate the utility of our method when studying complex diseases in which clonotype-driven immune responses are critical to understanding the underlying biology.
Supporting policy to improve delayed diagnosis of cancer in Nigeria
Authors: Apenteng Patricia , Omigbodun Akinyinka , mni Ibrahim Yakasai , Fayehun Olufunke , Owoaje Eme , Adebayo Kudus , Umar Usman Aliyu , Warshu Iman , Sartori Jo , Lilford Richard
Published: August 2023

The majority of people with cancer present in late stage (Stage III or IV) in Sub Saharan Africa, resulting in poor outcomes. In Nigeria, over three-quarters of common curable cancers present late, compared to 35% in high-income countries. Early detection, and referral to surgical and treatment centres for first line treatment could potentially improve outcomes.
Aim: To investigate delays to cancer care in Nigeria
Work packages:
1. Elicit patients’ accounts from first noticing a bodily change to the point of resolution where patients receive treatment, or are informed the cancer is not treatable (n=480)
2. Engage with policy makers to share evidence and inform the development of interventions to improve detection and treatment of cancer
Our research will focus on four types of cancer:
· breast
· colorectum
· head and neck
· cervix
We will explore the patient journey according to the three stages to diagnosis outlined in the WHO guide to early cancer diagnosis, focusing on the duration and causes of delay from first symptom to treatment.
The Patient Path to a diagnosis of Atrial Fibrillation: a qualitative study in primary care
Authors: Apenteng Patricia , Nanton Veronica , Lobban Trudie , Lilford Richard
Published: August 2023

Note: This abstract text was updated at the request of authors on 30 August, 2023. The previous abstract version was posted in error.
Background
Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder. AF leads to a five-fold increase in the risk of stroke and double the risk of death. These risks can be reduced by anticoagulation therapy. However, AF can be difficult to detect because it is often intermittent and not always symptomatic, and where symptoms are present, they can be non-specific. Currently at least one-third of people with AF remain undiagnosed; this equates to an estimated 500,000 people in the UK.
Aim
The study aims to explore the patient path to a diagnosis of AF and develop recommendations to improve the detection of AF
Methods
This is a qualitative study set in GP practices in the West Midlands. Approximately 30 semi-structured interviews will be conducted with patients with AF, within 6 months of diagnosis, to explore their journey to diagnosis. Up to 20 interviews will be conducted with GPs and practice nurses to explore their experiences of the presentations of AF.
A workshop will be held with relevant stakeholders, including patients, to interpret the data and identify key messages to improve recognition of AF. These will be used to develop educational resources for healthcare professionals and the public.
Evaluation
The interviews will be analysed using framework analysis. Andersen’s model of Total Patient Delay will be applied to understand the trajectory to a diagnosis of AF.
Conclusions
Recommendations to improve the detection of AF will be made, drawing on the identified patient pathways.
An investigation on the Monkeypox virus dynamics in human and rodent populations for a deterministic mathematical model
Authors: Leandry Leonce , Mureithi Eunice
Published: August 2023

A mathematical deterministic model for the dynamics of Monkeypox disease is developed. Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease that can be transmitted to humans, through contact with infected rodents. The model captures both the human and rodent populations and incorporates control strategies such as vaccines and quarantine for the human population. The model is analysed for the local and global stability of the equilibrium solutions. In addition, numerical simulations of the model equations and sensitivity analyses of the parameters are carried out. The solutions obtained show that an increase in vaccination and quarantine measures could reduce the number of reproductions and ultimately eradicate the virus.
A New Parallel Algorithm for Solving Largescale DEA Models and its Application in the evaluation of bankruptcy
Authors: Mu Ren , Hao Lining , Ma Xiuying
Published: August 2023

In order to meet the timeliness requirements of evaluation work, the research on the solution speed of large-scale Data envelopment analysis (DEA) problems has received attention for a long time. Although the Framework method has the fastest computing time in literature, it still has possibility to improve. This paper presents a new parallel computing algorithm work better than the Framework. In this algorithm, the computation speed of large-scale DEA models is improved by combining traditional DEA solving algorithm with one-dimensional parallel hyperline algorithm, and speed up the solution of multi-dimensional problems through dimensionality decomposition. This method does not need to set parameters to solve the problem like the Framework. The advantages of the new proposed algorithm are verified by the results from case studies with randomly generated datasets and real-life case. To ensure the comprehensiveness of the results, randomly generated datasets are under the assumption that obey the uniform distribution and the normal distribution respectively. Very large scale problems, exceeding fifty million decision making units (DMUs), were solved for the first time by our algorithm. The bankruptcy data of Polish companies is used to test the computing ability and availability of our algorithm in real-life case.
Evaluation of an adapted semi-automated DNA extraction for human salivary shotgun metagenomics
Authors: Meslier Victoria , Menozzi Elisa , David Aymeric , Morabito Christian , Pozo Sara Lucas Del , Famechon Alexandre , North Janet , Quinquis Benoit , Koletsi Sofia , Macnaughtan Jane , Mezabrovschi Roxana , Ehrlich S. Dusko , Schapira Anthony HV. , Almeida Mathieu
Published: August 2023

The importance of oral microbiota has been recently highlighted in human health, such as in Parkinson disease, notably using shotgun metagenomics. One key aspect for efficient shotgun metagenomic analysis relies on optimal microbial sampling and DNA extraction, generally implementing commercial solutions developed to improve sample collection and preservation and provide high DNA quality and quantity for downstream analysis. Because metagenomic studies are today performed on a large number of samples, the next evolution to increase study throughput is with DNA extraction automation. In this study, we proposed a semi-automated DNA extraction protocol for human salivary samples collected with a commercial kit, and compared the outcomes with the DNA extraction recommended by the manufacturer. While similar DNA yields were observed between the protocols, our semi-automated DNA protocol significantly generated higher DNA fragment sizes. Moreover, we showed that the oral microbiome composition was equivalent between DNA extraction methods, even at the species level. This study demonstrates that our semi-automated protocol is suitable for shotgun metagenomic analysis, while allowing for a better sample treatment logistic with reduced technical variability and without compromising the structure of the oral microbiome.
Regularizing fuel-optimal, multi-impulse trajectories
Authors: Oshima Kenta
Published: August 2023

The regularization theory has successfully enabled the removal of gravitational singularities associated with celestial bodies. This paper merges regularizing techniques into a multi-impulse trajectory design framework that requires delicate computations specifically in a fuel minimization problem. Regularized variables based on the Levi-Civita or Kustaanheimo-Stiefel transformation express instantaneous velocity changes in a gradient-based direct optimization method. The formulation removes the notorious singularities associated with null thrust impulses from derivatives of an objective function in the fuel minimization problem. The favorite singularity-free property enables accurate reductions of unnecessary impulses and generations of necessary impulses for local optimal solutions in an automatic manner. Examples of fuel-optimal, multi-impulse trajectories are presented including novel transfer solutions between a near rectilinear halo orbit and a distant retrograde orbit.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Vacancy Effect on Mechanical Properties of Polyurethane-Graphene Nanocomposite
Authors: Pebdani Mohammadreza Heidari , Sabetvand Roozbeh , Pishkar Iman
Published: August 2023

A molecular dynamics (MD) approach is used to describe the mechanical properties of polyurethane matrix using defective graphene nanosheets. In MD simulations of polyurethane matrix and graphene nanosheets, we applied DREIDING and Tersoff force fields, respectively. The temperature and total energy variations in the equilibrium phase show their physical stability. Numerically, the total energy of the pure and reinforced polymeric matrix converged to -491.10 kcal/mol and − 524.83 kcal/mol, respectively. These calculations show the atomic stability of the structure improves in presence of defective nanoparticles. Also, the mechanical properties of modelled samples were investigated by measuring stress-strain curves, Young's modulus, ultimate tensile strength, and atomic energy between polymeric matrix and modeled nanosheets. Numerically, by inserting defective nanosheets into polyurethane chains, Young’s modulus and their ultimate tensile strength increase to 22.00 MPa and 71.39 MPa, respectively. By combining graphene nanosheets with vacancy defects to the additive nanoparticles, we conclude that designed nanocomposites can exhibit promising (improved) mechanical properties.
Beyond the Bedside: Protocol for a scoping review exploring the experiences of non-practicing healthcare professionals within health professions education
Authors: Church Helen R , Brown Megan E L , Govender Lynelle , Clark Deborah
Published: August 2023

Background: The number of healthcare professionals leaving clinical practice and transitioning to alternative careers in health professions education is increasing. Among these non-practicing healthcare professionals, concerns have been reported regarding tensions in relation to identity, role, and credibility in their new field. There are suggestions that this is a particularly pressing issue for minoritised professionals who make this transition. Support is critical to attract and retain diverse talent within health professions education teaching and research. The purpose of this scoping review is to explore the career experiences of non-practicing healthcare professionals who work in health professions education internationally.
Methods: Arksey and O’Malley’s framework has been utilised to guide the design of this scoping review process and will be used throughout the course of the review. A comprehensive search of seven electronic databases and limited search of Google Scholar will be conducted, as well as a hand search of eligible article reference lists. Two reviewers will independently screen all articles based on inclusion criteria, with conflicts resolved by a third reviewer. Data from included articles will be charted, collated, and analysed thematically. Meta-data will be summarised quantitatively.
Discussion: This scoping review aims to explore the role and experiences of non-practicing healthcare professionals working within health professions education. The review will follow established scoping review guidelines and will include studies from various regions and languages, provided an English translation is available. The study remit will be broad, including both quantitative and qualitative studies, as well as reviews and opinion papers. Limitations may include the exclusion of non-English articles and potential difficulty of identifying papers which discuss the experiences of non-practicing clinicians. However, the review will provide insight into the current knowledge on what it is like to be a non-practicing clinician working within health professions education and identify gaps for both future research, and future support for those making this career transition.

Literature review registration

Open Science Framework Registration https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/485Z3
Emotional gradients of characters in digital games and their impressions on users: The case of "THE IDOLM@STER SHINY COLORS"
Authors: Matsui Tetsuya
Published: August 2023

In this paper, I have conducted an analysis that contributes to the design of
digital game characters that have a more positive effect on the player. My focus in this
paper is on the concept of ”emotional gradient,” which quantifies a character’s emotional
transition in a game. From prior research, I hypothesize that there is an association between
the emotional gradient and the character’s ”experience”. I tested this hypothesis using actual
digital game characters that have been distributed. I calculated the emotional gradient of
each character by text mining. At the same time, I measured the ”experience” of each
character through a web survey of game players. I then examined the correlation between
the value of the emotional gradient and ”experience”. The results showed a significant
correlation between the emotional gradient of JOY and SADNESS and ”experience”. The
results are useful for the design theory of digital game characters.
Integrating mental health into primary care: Implementation outcomes and clinical impact of the Health Action for Psychiatric Problems In Nigeria including Epilepsy and SubstanceS (HAPPINESS) intervention
Authors: Iheanacho Theddeus , Chu Casey , Aguocha Chinyere , Nwefoh Emeka , Dike Charles
Published: August 2023

Background
Access to mental health care in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria remains suboptimal. Integrating mental health care into primary care using a stepped-care, task-sharing approaches improves access. Research evidence on best model to scale up these approaches are needed. The Health Action for Psychiatric Problems In Nigeria including Epilepsy and SubstanceS (HAPPINESS) intervention is a multi-component, community-based, mobile technology-supported intervention developed to integrate mental health into primary health care centers in Nigeria using the World Health Organization's Mental Health Gap Action Programme-Intervention Guide (mhGAP-IG). This study evaluates the implementation outcomes and patient-level clinical impact of the HAPPINESS intervention.
Methods
Using a quasi-experimental design (single cohort with pre- and post- measures) and the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal Wallis tests we assessed changes in psychiatric symptoms among patients treated for mental, neurological and substance use disorders through the HAPPINESS intervention using their scores on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale at baseline and 6 months post-intervention. The implementation outcomes (feasibility, adoption, and fidelity) were assessed using Proctor’s implementation outcome framework.
Results
The HAPPINESS intervention implementation demonstrated high feasibility with robust site recruitment and 100% training completion rate. The adoption rate was high with 84% of the sites actively implementing the HAPPINESS intervention at 12 months. Fidelity to the intervention protocol (screening, assessment, treatment, follow up, referrals and consultation) was 81%. Patients’ retention rate in care at 6 months was 91% and at 12 months was 86%. The Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test showed a statistically significant reduction in PHQ-9 scores from baseline (Md = 9.5) to 6 months (Md = 3.0) post-intervention (z = 80.5, p < 0.001), with a large effect size (r = 0.8) and statistically significant reduction in BPRS scores from baseline (Md = 36.0) to 6 month (Md = 17.0) post-intervention (z = 128.5, p < 0.001), with a large effect size (r = 0.9).
Conclusion
This study adds to the growing evidence of the feasibility, effectiveness, role of mobile technology and potential for mhGAP-IG-based efforts to scale up mental health services through primary health care to increase access to evidence-based interventions in Nigeria.
Recovery period of long-term waterlogging exacerbates damage to photochemical phase of photosynthesis in bush beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.).
Authors: Velasco Nixon Florez , Ligarreto Gustavo Adolfo , Diaz Hermann Restrepo , Fonseca Liz Patricia Moreno
Published: August 2023

Beans are considered one of the basic products of the farmer economy and food security. In some regions of the tropics, the presence of climatic phenomena involves the increase in the frequency and intensity of rainfall and causes different waterlogging periods. The objective of this work was to determine the effect of waterlogging duration and recovery on the growth and photosynthesis of bean plants. The experiment was carried out in the greenhouses, using a completely randomized design with four replicates per treatment. Bush bean plants that were subjected when they had 3-4 true leaves, to two periods of waterlogging, short-term (STW) and long-term (LTW), 7 and 14 days, respectively and 7 days of recovery period in both treatments, and one control in drainage condition. The STW caused a significant decrease in photosynthesis (Pn) (82%), stomatal conductance (gs) (83%) and an increase in the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and electrolyte leakage (EL) compared to control plants. In STW-RP, Pn, WUE, Ci/gs ratio and photochemical quenching (qP) increased. Otherwise, the LWT reduced Pn (94%) and gs (93%) compared to control plants. At the LTW-RP there was a reduction in the maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm), the content of chlorophyll and carotenoids and an increase in non-photochemical quenching (NPQ). Proline increase in LTW-RP was not enough to avoid damage to the PSII. The STW caused moderate stress on the photosynthesis of bean plants although plants can recover their photosynthetic activity in a low proportion. The LTW increases the damage of the photosynthetic apparatus, and its effect is exacerbated in the subsequent LTW-RP.
Educational programme on knowledge, attitudes, and practice of oral care/hygiene provision by healthcare providers to older residents in long-term care institutions: A case-control study
Authors: WONG Florence Mei Fung , SHIE Henry WH , Kao Enoch , Tsoi Hoi Mei , Leung Wai keung
Published: August 2023

Background
Much attention has been paid to advocate proper oral care/hygiene provision by healthcare providers in long-term care institutions (LTCIs). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an oral health education (OHE) programme (intervention) on knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) of healthcare providers in providing oral care/hygiene to older residents in LTCIs.
Methods
A case control study was conducted at two LTCIs, with one assigned as the intervention group and the other as the control group. A KAP survey was administered before and after the intervention, and oral status was assessed by standardized clinical photographs taken before and after oral hygiene provision on three older residents.
Results
A total of 40 healthcare providers (20 in intervention and 20 in control groups) participated, with the attitudes and overall KAP significantly improved in the intervention group after the OHE programme. Interestingly, the knowledge of those in the control LTCI was significantly declined at re-evaluation. Poor oral health was observed in the three older residents.
Conclusions
This study revealed that the OHE programme effectively improved attitudes of the healthcare providers and provided sustaining effect on attitude upon oral health and oral care. However, there were still inadequacies in oral hygiene provision by some healthcare providers, possibly due to unattended oral diseases and hygiene needs, as well as personal and environmental barriers that worth further investigation. Regular evaluation and enforcement of oral care/hygiene provision in LTCIs are necessary to maintain oral health and prevent dental and gum diseases in older residents. Immediate referral for dental treatment is recommended for older people with signs of dental/oral disease(s).
The effect of drug holidays on sexual dysfunction in men treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) other than fluoxetine: An 8-week open-label randomized clinical trial
Authors: Alipour-Kivi Arman , Eissazade Negin , Shariat Seyed Vahid , Salehian Razieh , Soraya Shiva , Askari Sanaz , Shalbafan Mohammadreza
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Mental disorders are a significant global burden, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) being widely used for treatment. However, SSRIs are associated with various side effects, including sexual dysfunction. Common and persistent, these side effects often lead to poor adherence and treatment discontinuation. While several strategies have been employed to manage SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction, drug holidays have not been extensively studied for this purpose. Therefore, this clinical trial aims to assess the effect of drug holidays on sexual dysfunction in men treated with SSRIs, excluding fluoxetine.
Methods: This 8-week double-center, randomized, open-label, controlled trial was conducted in the outpatient clinics of Iran Psychiatric Hospital and Tehran Institute of Psychiatry, from January 2022 to March 2023. The study included married men between the ages of 18 and 50 years who had experienced sexual dysfunction during treatment with an SSRI. The Male Sexual Health Questionnaire (MSHQ) and the 28-Question General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) were used as assessment tools. Participants were randomized into two groups: the drug holidays group and the control group. The drug holidays group was instructed not to take their medications on the weekends. The control group was asked to continue their regular medication regimen without any changes. Both groups were assessed at baseline, and weeks 4 and 8.
Results: Sixty-three patients were included and randomly assigned to drug holidays (N=32) or control (N=31) groups, and 50 patients (25 in each group) completed the trial. The participants’ mean (±SD) age was 37.22 (±12.181). Drug holidays significantly improved erection, ejaculation, satisfaction, and overall sexual health of the participants (P<0.001).. No significant change was observed in the drug holidays group’s mental health. No major side effects were recorded.
Conclusions: Based on the results of our study, drug holidays was significantly in favor of ‘erection’, ‘ejaculation’, ‘satisfaction’ and ‘total’ scores of the MSHQ, indicating improvement in sexual health of men, without significant worsening of mental health status. Further research is needed to reach a certain conclusion.
Trial registration: The trial was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials on 25/10/2021 (www.irct.ir; IRCT ID: IRCT20170123032145N6) before the trial.
Co-payments and associated factors in the Peruvian private health care system
Authors: Bellido-Boza Luciana , Pariona-Cárdenas Max , Carrión Roger , Valdivia-Miranda Paul , Villarreal-Zegarra David
Published: August 2023

Background The costs associated with health care are of critical importance to both decision-makers and users, given the limited resources allocated to the health sector. However, the available scientific evidence on health care costs in low-and-middle-income countries, such as Peru, is scarce. In the Peruvian context, the health system is fragmented, and the private health system and its financing models have received less research attention. We aimed to analyse user co-payments and associated factors within the private health care system. Methods Our study was cross-sectional, using free data from the Electronic Transaction Model of Standardized Billing Data - TEDEF-SUSALUD, between 2021–2022. Our unit of analysis is the benefits provided by users. We used the outcomes of co-payments, the total amount, proportion of co-payments, and co-payment of minimum salaries. Results Our study included 5,287,260 health services provided to users of the private health system in Peru. We found that the average co-payment for these services is lower for women than for men (β=-7.57; 95%CI: -8.01 to -7.13), as well as for persons aged 60 years or older (β = 8.43; 95%CI: 7.86 to 9.00) and for complementary health affiliations (β = 58.47; 95%CI: 57.77 to 59.17). However, no significant difference was observed in the amount of co-payments in terms of minimum salaries between the different groups. On the other hand, a significant difference was observed in the co-payment for hospitalization-related services, with an average of 503.7 soles per day, which is about half of the Peruvian daily minimum wage. Although co-payments per day of hospitalization represent on average only 14% of the total amount submitted, this does not exclude the possibility that a person requiring several days of hospitalization in a private facility may incur catastrophic health expenditures. Conclusions Our study provides a detailed overview of out-of-pocket payments in the private health care system in Peru and the factors associated with them. Policymakers must consider these findings when designing policies to promote a more equitable and accessible health system.
Myocardial strain is regulated by cardiac preload in the early stage of sepsis
Authors: Huang Xiaolong , Lu Guiyang , Cai Xiaoyang , Wang Xinxin , Jiang Yuanyuan , Ning Yaogui
Published: August 2023

Background: Owing to a lack of data，this study aimed to explore the effect of cardiac preload on myocardial strain in septic patients.
Methods: A total of 70 septic patients in intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary teaching hospital in China from January 2018 to July 2019 and underwent transthoracic echocardiography were enrolled. Echocardiographic data were recorded at ICU admission and 24 hours later. Patients were assigned to low left ventricular end-diastolic volume index (LVEDVI) and normal LVEDVI groups. We assessed the impact of preload on myocardial strain between the groups and analyzed the correlation of echocardiographic parameters under different preload conditions.
Results: Thirty-seven patients (53%) had a low LVEDVI and 33 (47%) a normal LVEDVI. Those in the low LVEDVI group had a faster heart rate and required a greater degree of fluid infusion. The left ventricular global strain (LVGLS)(-8.6 to -10.80), left ventricular global circumferential strain (LVGCS) (-13.83 to -18.26), and right ventricular global longitudinal strain (RVGLS) (-6.9 to -10.60) showed significant improvements in the low LVEDVI group after fluid resuscitation. However, fluid resuscitation resulted in a significantly increased cardiac afterload value only in the normal LVEDVI group. Multivariate backward linear regression showed that LVEDVI changes were independently associated with myocardial strain-related improvements during fluid resuscitation. In the correlation matrix, the baseline LVGLS, LVGCS, and RVGLS showed strong interdependence in the low LVEDVI group, and higher tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion was negatively correlated with lower myocardial strain. The baseline LVEDVI was significantly negatively correlated with the LVGLS and RVGLS but not LVGCS. LVEDVI increases during fluid resuscitation were associated with improvements in the myocardial strain degree.
Conclusions: Myocardial strain alterations were significantly influenced by the cardiac preload during fluid resuscitation in sepsis.
Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia by Weeksella virosa
Authors: Fuente-Garcia-Peña Luis Alberto De la , Marquez-Celedonio Felix Guillermo , Arana-Vidal Hugo , Azuara-Diaz Karime , Villegas-Domínguez Josué Eli
Published: August 2023

Background
Weeksella virosa pneumonia has been described as a healthcare-associated infection. This is a rare gram-negative anaerobic bacterium associated with the use of mechanical ventilation for a long period of time and is more frequent in immunosuppressed patients. This is the first case reported in the state of Veracruz and the second in Mexico; postpandemic, it is important to identify the presence of infectious agents that are uncommon in the different hospital pathologies.
Case presentation: We present the case of a 64-year-old female from Veracruz, Mexico who developed an infectious process in the right pelvic limb after a transcatheter aortic valve replacement procedure and subsequently developed sudden cardiorespiratory arrest requiring mechanical ventilation, with subsequent imaging studies demonstrating a pneumonic process associated with a nosocomial infection.
Conclusions
We should keep in mind that the high-risk population for W. virosa infection is mainly adults with multiple comorbidities or immunosuppressed and that it is necessary to consider that nosocomial infections may present unusual etiologic agents probably because of changes in patient management during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Genome-wide selective signatures mining the candidate genes for egg laying in goose
Authors: Zhao Hongchang , Sun Guobo , Mu Xiaohui , Li Xiaoming , Wang Jun , Zhao Mengli , Zhang Gansheng , Ji Rongchao , Chen Chao , Gao Guangliang , Wang Jian
Published: August 2023

Background
Improving the egg production of goose is a crucial goal of breeding, because genetics is the key factor affecting egg production. Thus, we sequenced the genomes of 55 Chinese indigenous geese from six breeds, which were divided into the high egg-laying group (ZE, HY, and SC) and low egg-laying group (ZD, LH, and ST). Based on the results of the inter-population selection signal analysis, we explored the selected genome regions in the high egg-laying germplasm population to identify the key candidate genes affecting the egg-laying traits.
Results
According to the whole-genome sequencing data, the average sequencing depth reached 11.75X. The genetic relationships among those six goose breeds coincided with the breed’s geographical location. The six selective signal detection results revealed that the most selected regions were located on chromosomes 2 and 12. In total, 12,051 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) sites were selected in all six methods. Using the enrichment results of candidate genes, we detected some pathways involved in cell differentiation, proliferation, and female gonadal development that may cause differences in egg production. Examples of these pathways were the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway (IGF2, COMP, and FGFR4), animal organ morphogenesis (IGF2 and CDX4), and female gonad development (TGFB2).
Conclusion
On analyzing the genetic background of six local goose breeds by using re-sequencing data, we found that the kinship was consistent with their geographic location. Some egg-laying trait-associated candidate genes were mined through selection signal analysis. Our study provides a critical reference for analyzing the molecular mechanism underlying differences in reproductive traits and molecular breeding of geese.
The Premonitory Urge in Chinese children with tic disorders: Measurement and Characteristics
Authors: Ding Qiang , Woods Douglas , Xu Wen , Zhao Ying , Shen Shuqin , Sun Jinhua
Published: August 2023

Background

The Premonitory Urge for Tics Scale (PUTS) is a common self-report measure of premonitory urges for patients with tic disorders. The current study aims to revisit the Chinese version of the PUTS(PUTS-C) and report the characteristics of premonitory urges in Chinese children with tic disorders.

Methods

The psychometric evaluation involved 204 outpatients with tic disorders, aged 7-16 years, who were divided into two age groups:(7-10 years, n=103; 11-16 years, n=95).

Results

Results showed that 86.8% of participants endorse premonitory urges, and the PUTS-C demonstrated good internal consistency (α=0.84) and two-week test-retest reliability (0.80). We observed a statistically significant correlation between the total PUTS-C score and various Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) subscales and total tic severity scores. The PUTS-C score also showed significant correlations with the Children Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS), Screening Child Anxiety-Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED), Children's Depression Inventory (CDI), and the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Rating Scale (SNAP-IV) oppositional behavior subscale. Notably, premonitory urges independently predicted tic severity, beyond the influence of comorbid symptoms. A two-factor structure of the PUTS-C was identified in the total sample through factor analysis.

Conclusions

The PUTS-C possesses acceptable validity and good reliability. Premonitory urges may be less prevalent and intense in Chinese versus Western adolescent patients. It appears that premonitory urges in Chinese patients with tic disorders are associated with obsessive-compulsive symptoms, anxiety, and depression, but can independently predict tic severity. Specific PUTS-C factors possibly related to motor and vocal tics. Future research should continue to investigate age-related differences and the association with tics and other sensory symptoms.