bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Puzzling Mast Cell Trilogy: Anaphylaxis, MCAS and Mastocytosis
Authors: Gülen Theo
Published: September 2023

Our knowledge of biology and mast cell (MC) function, as well as disorders associated with the pathologic activation of MCs has been evolving over the last few decades. Anaphylaxis, mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and mastocytosis are interrelated yet distinct conditions within the spectrum of mast cell activation disorders. Nevertheless, all three conditions can co-exist in one and same patient, as pathologic MC activation is the key finding in all three. When mediator release is excessive and involves multiple systems, anaphylaxis and MCAS may occur. Furthermore, mastocytosis is a clonal disorder of MCs and often presents with anaphylaxis and MCAS. Nevertheless, in some cases even proliferative and accumulative features of MCs in mastocytosis can account for symptoms and disease progression. In each case, diagnosis can be only made when diagnostic consensus criteria are fulfilled. The current article aims to provide a concise clinical update and pinpoint main difficulties in diagnosing these puzzling disorders of MCs in medical practice.
Modification of Lipid Profile, LDL Subfractions and other Cardiovascular Risk Markers in Hypercholesterolemic Women through the Sea Buckthorn Juice Consumption
Authors: Kopčeková Jana , Mrázová Jana , Fatrcová-Šramková Katarína , Chlebo Peter , Bihari Maroš , Gažarová Martina , Lenártová Petra , Habánová Marta , Navrátilová Alica
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this work was to investigate whether two-months supplementation with 100% sea buckthorn juice (SBJ) would modify blood lipids, LDL subfractions and other markers of cardiovascular risk in hypercholesterolemic women. A group of 28 hypercholesterolemic non-medicated adult women with a mean age of 50.58 ± 5.76 years consumed 50 mL of 100% SBJ daily for two-months. We observed a significant reduction of body weight (BW; p < 0.05), body mass index (BMI; p < 0.05), body fat mass (BFM; p < 0.001) and visceral fat area (VFA; p < 0.001), on the contrary, a significant increase of skeletal muscle mass (SMM; p < 0.05) and fat-free mass (FFM; p < 0.05). Supplementation with 100% SBJ significantly increased the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL; p < 0.05), reduced the level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL; p < 0.05), atherogenic LDL subfractions (LDL3–7; p < 0.05) and improved LDL/HDL ratio (p < 0.001). After the SBJ consumption, significant reduction of C-reactive protein (CRP; p < 0.001), orosomucoid (ORM; p < 0.001) and interleukin 6 (IL-6; p < 0.05) were found. In conclusion, consumption of SBJ showed an indication of beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk factors in hypercholesterolemic women.
Microbiota-Accessible Boron-Containing Compounds in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Authors: Bita Cristina Elena , Scorei Ion Romulus , Vreju Ananu Florentin , Muşetescu Anca Emanuela , Mogoşanu George Dan , Biţă Andrei , Dinescu Venera Cristina , Dinescu Ştefan Cristian , Criveanu Cristina , Bărbulescu Andreea Lili , Florescu Alesandra , Ciurea Paulina Lucia
Published: September 2023

The microbiota–gut–brain axis has garnered increasing attention in recent years for its role in various health conditions, including neuroinflammatory disorders like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). CRPS is a debilitating condition characterized by chronic neuropathic pain, and its etiology and pathophysiology remain elusive. Emerging research suggests that alterations in the gut microbiota composition and function could play a significant role in CRPS development and progression. Our paper explores the implications of microbiota in CRPS and the potential therapeutic role of boron (B). Studies have demonstrated that individuals with CRPS often exhibit dysbiosis, with imbalances in beneficial and pathogenic gut bacteria. Dysbiosis can lead to increased gut permeability and systemic inflammation, contributing to the chronic pain experienced in CRPS. B, an essential trace element, has shown promise in modulating the gut microbiome positively and exerting anti-inflammatory effects. Recent preclinical and clinical studies suggest that B supplementation may alleviate neuropathic pain and improve CRPS symptoms by restoring microbiota balance and reducing inflammation. Our review highlights the complex interplay between microbiota, inflammation, and neuropathic pain in CRPS and underscores the potential of B as a novel therapeutic approach to target the microbiota–gut–brain axis, offering hope for improved management of this challenging condition.
Outcomes of Induction Chemotherapy in Resectable NSCLC Treated with Radical Surgery: A Pre- and POST-Operative Prognostic Factors Analysis
Authors: Catelli Chiara , Sarnicola Nicola , Ligabue Tommaso , Paladini Piero , Bloise Francesco , Bengala Carmelo , Luzzi Luca
Published: September 2023

The aim of the study is to evaluate the predictive factors of response to induction chemotherapy in patients with resectable NSCLC, treated at the unit of Thoracic Surgery of Siena University Hospital with radical surgery. From January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2020, 78 patients were recruited. We analyzed the outcomes in terms of 5-years OS based on the Estimated Regression Rate, N2 downstaging and age; two patients’ subgroups were created by age (Group A: age <66 years-old; Group B: age >66 years-old). No 5-year OS difference was observed based on age, while it was observed in patients with N2 downstaging (p=0.031). Bewtween patients with N2 downstaging, only patients in Group A had a significantly increased 5-year OS (p=0.019), while this was not observed in Group B (p=0-321); the same result was observed with the Estimated Regression Rate > 50% (Group A p=0.005; Group B p=0.391). The percentage of disease regression and the N2 down-staging after induction chemotherapy have great value on the survival, although this advantage seems to be observed mostly in younger patients. A multidisciplinary oncologic discussion of clinical cases could provide support in the careful selection of the ideal patients to undergo neoadjuvant treatment before radical surgery.
Does a Motivational Workshop Enhance the Opening of Saving Accounts Among the Unbanked Village Defense Party (VDP) Members? Evidence From Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Morshed Md Monzur , Maharjan And Keshav Lall
Published: September 2023

Despite the expansion of financial institutions and proliferation of mobile financial services, reaching the unbanked and bringing them under formal financial services has become a policy concern in many developing countries. Due to the lack of financial accounts, unbanked people prefer informal, risky, and inconvenient mechanisms for receiving, sending and transferring money. Previous studies rely much on common intervention like no account maintenance and opening fees, easy documentation processes and money subsidies for opening financial accounts. This study aims to examine the impact of the motivational workshop on opening savings accounts through causality among the unbanked people in a setting where the respondents are unbanked despite having all the requirements and many institutional offers for opening savings accounts. We encouraged the unbanked people through a one-hour-long motivational workshop to open saving account. Based on our cross-sectional data and randomized controlled trial experiment among 505 unbanked Village Defense Party (VDP) members at Dhubil Union under Sirajganj in Bangladesh, we have the evidence that motivational workshop positively impacts opening ac-counts by 32.33 percent. However, the account opening rate differs in terms of respondent’s pref-erence for financial institutions. Our study also finds that unbanked people have the highest pref-erence for mobile financial services for opening accounts resulting in 15.33 percent. The result of the study has some policy implications for adopting effective strategies of financial access in many developing countries.
New Comprehension on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Sexual Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bachega Fernanda S , Baracat Maria Cândida P , Simões Ricardo Santos , Maciel Gustavo A R , Lobo Roger A , Jr José Maria Soares , Baracat Edmund Chada
Published: September 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent condition characterized by manifestations that can influence self-image and potentially result in psychological distress; however, data from literature on sexual function (SF) in PCOS women are contradictory. We aimed to evaluate sexual dysfunction (SD) in PCOS women by carrying out a systematic review and meta-analysis, using the gold-standard assessment tool SD-diagnosis (Female Sexual Function Index:FSFI). Seven databases were analyzed until August-2023; study quality was assessed by risk of bias and Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Our analysis encompassed 25 case-control studies (9933 women). PCOS group presented significantly lower scores in arousal (MD= -0.36 CI95%-0.60;-0.11), lubrication (MD= -0.52 CI95%-0.75;-0.28), orgasm (MD= -0.39 CI95%-0.57;-0.20), satisfaction (MD= -0.32 CI95%-0.50;-0.14) and pain subdomains (MD= -0.46 CI95%-0.75;-0.16), as in overall FSFI score (MD= -2.27 CI95%-3.23;-1.31). Overweight/obese (OW/O) patients exhibited significantly higher overall FSFI than OW/O controls (MD=1.98 CI95%0.68;3.27), particularly in lubrication (MD= -0.34), orgasm (MD= -0.26) and satisfaction (MD= -0.25) subdomains. These findings offer insights regarding SD in PCOS women and emphasize the need to incorporate SF assessment into multidisciplinary care. By this way, PCOS can be also considered a gateway diagnosis to other long-term consequences. Further research should focus on controlling variables, as ethnicity, culture, religion and economic disparities.
Dual-Task Interference Effects on Lower-Extremity Muscle Activities during Gait Initiation and Steady-State Gait among Healthy Young Individuals, measured using Wireless Electromyography Sensors
Authors: Waldon Ke'Vaughn Tarrel , Stout Angeloh , Manning Kaitlin , Gray Leslie , Wilson David , Kang Gu Eon
Published: September 2023

To maintain a healthy lifestyle, adults rely on their ability to walk while simultaneously managing multiple tasks that challenge their coordination. This study investigates the impact of cognitive dual-task on lower limb muscle activities in 21 healthy young adults during both gait initiation and steady-state gait. We utilized wireless electromyography sensors to measure muscle activities, along with a 3D motion capture system and force plates to detect the phases of gait initiation and steady-state gait. Participants were asked to walk at their self-selected pace, and we compared single-task and dual-task conditions. We analyzed mean muscle activation and co-contraction in the biceps femoris, vastus lateralis, gastrocnemius, and tibialis anterior muscles. The findings revealed that during gait initiation with the dual-task condition, there was a decrease in mean muscle activation and an increase in mean muscle c-contraction between the swing and stance limb compared to the single-task condition. In steady-state gait, there was also a decrease in mean muscle activation in the dual-task condition compared to the single-task condition. When participants performed dual-task activities during gait initiation, early indicators of reduced balance capability were observed. Additionally, during dual-task steady-state gait, knee stabilizer muscles exhibited signs of altered activation, contributing to balance instability.
Concentrating Microbes from Human Urine Samples Using Paper-Based Adsorbents for Point-of-Care Molecular Assays
Authors: Uttam Isha , Sudarsan Sujesh , Ray Rohitraj , Chinnappan Raja , Yaqinuddin Ahmed , Al-Kattan Khaled , Mani Naresh Kumar
Published: September 2023

This hypothesis demonstrates that the efficiency of Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) for nucleic acid detection can be positively influenced by preconcentration of microbial cells onto hydrophobic paper surfaces. The mechanism of this model is based on the high attraction of microbes towards hydrophobic surfaces. Extensive studies have demonstrated that hydrophobic surfaces exhibit enhanced bacterial and fungal adhesion. The preconcentration approach by exploiting this inherent affinity of hydrophobic paper substrates enables the adherence of a greater number of target cells, resulting in a higher concentration of target templates for amplification directly from urine samples. In contrast to conventional methods, which often involve complex procedures, this approach offers a simpler, cost-effective, and user-friendly alternative. Moreover, the integration of cell adhesion, LAMP amplification, and signal readout within paper origami-based devices can provide a portable, robust, and highly efficient platform for rapid nucleic acid detection. This innovative hypothesis holds significant potential for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics and field surveillance applications. Further research and development in this field will advance the implementation of this technology, contributing to improved healthcare systems and public health outcomes.
CFDBench: A Comprehensive Benchmark for Machine Learning Methods in Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Luo Yining , Chen Yingfa , Zhang Zhen
Published: September 2023

In recent years, applying deep learning to solve physics problems has attracted much attention. Data-driven deep learning methods produce operators that can learn solutions to the whole system of partial differential equations. However, the existing methods are only evaluated on simple flow equations (e.g., Burger's equation), and only consider the generalization ability on different initial conditions. In this paper, we construct CFDBench, a benchmark with four classic problems in computational fluid dynamics (CFD): lid-driven cavity flow, laminar boundary layer flow in circular tubes, dam flows through the steps, and periodic Karman vortex street. Each flow problem includes data with various boundary conditions, fluid physical properties, and domain geometries. Compared to existing datasets, the advantages of CFDBench are (1) comprehensive. It contains common physical parameters such as velocity, pressure, and cavity fraction. (2) realistic. It is very suitable for deep learning solutions of fluid mechanics equations. (3) challenging. It has a certain learning difficulty, prompting to find models with strong learning ability. (4) standardized. CFDBench facilitates a comprehensive and fair comparison of different deep learning methods for CFD. We make appropriate modifications to popular deep neural networks to apply them to CFDBench and enable the accommodation of more changing inputs. The evaluation on CFDBench reveals some new shortcomings of existing works and we propose possible directions for solving such problems.
Leveraging Large Language Models for Educational Enhancement: A Case Study of ChatGPT, BingChat, and Bard
Authors: Nguyen Thu
Published: September 2023

This paper examines the potential of large language models, specifically ChatGPT, BingChat, and Bard, in enhancing the work of teachers in various educational settings. These models, powered by cutting-edge artificial intelligence, offer a wide range of applications that can aid educators in curriculum development, personalized instruction, student engagement, and administrative tasks. By harnessing the capabilities of these language models, teachers can not only streamline their workload but also improve the overall quality of education. This paper explores the ways in which these models can empower educators and revolutionize teaching practices.
Coastal Flooding Mapping with Two Approaches Based on Observations at Furadouro, Northern Portugal
Authors: Carneiro-Barros Jose Eduardo , Plomaritis Theocharis A. , Taveira-Pinto Francisco , Rosa-Santos Paulo , Fazeres-Ferradosa Tiago
Published: September 2023

This study assesses coastal flooding extension mapping based on two innovative approaches. The first is based on the coupling of two robust numerical models (SWASH and LISFLOOD), in this case, discharges were extracted from the wave overtopping results from SWASH 1D and set as boundary conditions for LISFLOOD on the crest of an existing seawall where overtopping typically occurs. The second, hereby called the ‘Tilted Bathtub Approach’ (TBTA), is based on wave run-up levels and buffering the affected area of a prior flooding event, adjusting it for expected sea-states according to different return periods. The proposed approaches are applied to a case study on the Northern Portuguese coast, at Furadouro beach, in the municipality of Ovar, which has been facing multiple flooding episodes throughout recent years, including a dramatic storm in February 2014. This event was used as validation for the proposed methods. A 30 years long hourly local wave climate time series was used both to perform an extreme value analysis in order to obtain expected sea-states according to different return periods, and also for performing a sensitivity test for established empirical formulas to estimate wave run-up at this particular case. Results indicate both approaches are valuable: they yield coherent flood extension predictions that align well with the real inundated area from the 2014 storm. The convergence of these findings underscores the potential for these methods in future coastal flood risk assessment and planning.
Multisystemic Manifestation in Treacher Collins Syndrome
Authors: Callea Michele , Scalisi Francisco Cammarata , Grimaldi Piercesare
Published: September 2023

Treacher Collins syndrome (TCS) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by craniofacial abnormalities due to underdeveloped facial bones. In addition to physical deformities, TCS also presents with several neurological disorders resulting from facial defects and brain malformations. This paper reviews the neurological manifestations of TCS with a focus on facial nerve paralysis, neurodevelopmental delay, intellectual disability, and autism spectrum disorder. Facial nerve hypoplasia leads to an inability to control facial muscles and expressions. Neurodevelopmental delays in motor function and language acquisition are commonly reported in infants with TCS due to hearing loss, facial impairments, poor nutrition, infections, and structural brain changes. Intellectual disability with below average IQ is also more prevalent in TCS, affecting about one third of patients. Brain imaging reveals abnormalities like white matter hypoplasia, cortical atrophy, and reduced grey matter volume which likely contribute to cognitive deficits. Additionally, the rate of autism spectrum disorder is significantly higher in TCS compared to the general population. The reasons are unclear but may involve hearing loss, facial dysmorphisms, and socio-emotional processing centers in the brain. Management is multidisciplinary, focusing on early interventions like speech, physical, feeding, and behavioral therapy to maximize developmental and functional outcomes. Further research on the neurological pathophysiology of TCS is needed to better elucidate the mechanisms linking craniofacial defects with adverse neurodevelopmental consequences.
Could Globalization and Renewable Energy Contribute to a Decarbonized Economy in the European Union?
Authors: Neagu Olimpia , Anghelina Andrei Marius , Teodoru Mircea Constantin , Boiță Marius , David Katalin Gabriela
Published: September 2023

The study investigates the impact of globalization, renewable energy consumption and economic growth on CO2 emissions in 26 European Union (EU) countries for the period 1990-2020. The second-generation panel unit root tests are applied, the Westerlund cointegration test is used, and panel Fully Modified Least Squares (FMOLS) and Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS) techniques are employed to estimate the long-term relationship between variables. The causality relationship among variables under investigation is identified by the heterogeneous Dumitrescu-Hurlin causality test. It is found that globalization and renewable energy consumption contributed to the carbon emissions mitigation, while economic growth induced their increase. The results are robust when control variables (i.e., financial development, foreign direct investment and urbanization) are added in the model. Foreign direct investment and urbanization are contributors to carbon emissions increase whereas financial development induce their decrease. The effect of variables under consideration on carbon emissions is differentiated by the economic development and institutional quality level. Unidirectional causalities relationships were identified from globalization to carbon emissions and from carbon emissions to foreign direct investment and bidirectional relationships between economic growth, renewable energy consumption, financial development and carbon emissions. Policy implications of the findings are also discussed.
Prevalence and Quantification of the Effects of Sexual Harassment Victimization of School-Aged Adolescents
Authors: Marcos Verónica , Seijo Dolores , Montes Álvaro , Arce Ramón
Published: September 2023

Background/aim: Sexual harassment has become a serious social and public health problem in adolescence, causing adverse effects on mental health. Nevertheless, some behaviours arise that, due to their characteristics, might be misinterpreted as sexual harassment. A field study, a survey with a non-probabilistic accidental sampling, was designed in order to estimate the prevalence of sexual harassment victimization in the Spanish adolescent population, as well as to quantify the harms. Method: 1028 Spanish adolescents, 54.3% females and 45.7% males, aged 13-17 years (M = 15.21, SD = 1.03), responded to a diagnostic measure of sexual harassment victimization and an inventory measure of internalizing and externalizing Mental Health Problems (MHPs). Results: The results showed a significant prevalence of diagnosed sexual harassment victimization of school-aged adolescents, 24.1%, 95% [.215, 267], with adverse effects on internalizing and externalizing MHPs. As for the internalizing MHPs, the results showed moderate adverse effects on depression, anxiety, somatic burns, posttraumatic symptoms, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms; and mild adverse effects on social anxiety. With regard to externalizing MHPs, the results revealed moderate adverse effects on hyperactivity-impulsivity, anger control and antisocial behaviour; and mild adverse effects on attention problems, aggression and defiant behaviour. In addition, it was corroborated that sexual harassment victimization affects adolescent females to a greater extent, with the effect being significantly greater in internalizing than in externalizing MHPs. Conclusions: The results obtained are discussed and future lines of research and intervention are proposed to promote the implementation of prevention and intervention programs that address this phenomenon and, in turn, improve the physical, psychological, and social well-being of adolescents.
On Positive Recurrence of Mn/GI/1/∞ Model
Authors: Veretennikov Alexander
Published: September 2023

Positive recurrence for a single-server queueing system is established under generalised intensity conditions of service which does not assume existence of the density distribution function of service but a certain integral type lower bound as a sufficient condition. Positive recurrence implies existence of the invariant distribution and a guaranteed slow convergence to it in the total variation metric.
Differences in Brain Network Topology Based on Alcohol Use History in Adolescents
Authors: Kirse Haley , Bahrami Mohsen , Lyday Robert , Simpson Sean L. , Peterson-Sockwell Hope , Burdette Jonathan , Laurienti Paul J
Published: September 2023

Approximately 6 million youth aged 12 to 20 consume alcohol monthly in the United States. The effect of alcohol consumption in adolescence on behavior and cognition is heavily researched, however, little is known about how alcohol consumption in adolescence may alter brain function, leading to long-term developmental detriments. In order to investigate differences in brain connectivity associated with alcohol use in adolescents, brain networks were constructed using resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging data collected by the National Consortium on Alcohol and NeuroDevelopment in Adolescence (NCANDA) from 698 youth (12-21 years, 117 hazardous drinkers and 581 no/low drinkers). Analyses assessed differences in brain network topology based on alcohol consumption in eight pre-defined brain networks, as well as in whole-brain connectivity. Within the central executive network (CEN), basal ganglia network (BGN), and sensorimotor network (SMN), no/low drinkers demonstrated stronger and more frequent connections between highly globally efficient nodes, with fewer and weaker connections between highly clustered nodes. Inverse results were observed within the dorsal attention network (DAN), visual network (VN), and frontotemporal network (FTN), with no/low drinkers demonstrating weaker connections between nodes with high efficiency and increased frequency of clustered nodes compared to hazardous drinkers. Results from this study show clear organizational differences between adolescents with no/low or hazardous alcohol use, suggesting that aberrant connectivity in these brain networks is associated with risky drinking behaviors.
Antidiabetic Therapy during Pregnancy: The Prescription Pattern in Italy
Authors: Locatelli Anna , Ornaghi Sara , Terzaghi Alessandra , Belleudi Valeria , Fortinguerra Filomena , Poggi Francesca Romana , Perna Serena , Trotta Francesco
Published: September 2023

Pregestational and gestational diabetes mellitus are relevant complications of pregnancy and antidiabetic drugs are prescribed to obtain glycemic control and improve perinatal outcomes.
The objective of this study was to highlight the prescription pattern of antidiabetics before, during and after pregnancy in Italy and to evaluate its appropriateness.
A multi-database cross sectional population study using a Common Data Model was performed. In a cohort of about 450,000 women, the prescribing profile of antidiabetics seemed to be in line with the Italian standards for the treatment of GDM which currently do not recommend the use of oral antidiabetics and non-insulin injection, even if a small share of new users (up to 3.8% in the third trimester) used oral antidiabetics.
A substantial variability in the prescription pattern was observed among the Italian regions considered: the highest increase was registered in Tuscany (4.2%), Umbria (3.5%) and Emilia-Romagna (2.6%) while the lowest in Lombardy (1.5%), Veneto (1.7%) and Apulia (1.7%).
Analysing the prevalence of use of antidiabetics between foreign women we observed that the consumption during pregnancy was higher than Italians (second trimester: 1,8% vs 0,9%, third trimester: 3,6% vs 1,8%).
Palliative Care In Portugal - From Intention To Reality, What is Yet to Be Accomplished
Authors: Marques Paulo , Rêgo Francisca , Nunes Rui
Published: September 2023

Objectives
This article focuses on exploring the evolution of Palliative Care in Portugal. Ten years after the approval of its Basic Law, the aim was to investigate the quality of the path followed and the guidelines that could promote its development. Thus, this study sought to identify a) the goals of the current members of parliament concerning Palliative Care, b) the major priorities that should guide the development of Palliative Care in the coming decade, c) the facilitating or hindering factors to accelerating the process, and d) to propose consensually agreed measures for an integral development of Palliative Care within the health system.
Methods
Qualitative data analysis was performed from the reading of literature and interviews conducted via Zoom with several intentionally chosen participants, leading to the creation of a Focus Group. The NVivo® 10 was used for data processing and categorisation.
Results
Three key themes emerged concerning the current status of palliative care: the policymakers, the technicians, and the society. This first line of structuring is explained by a second set of categories, namely, a) knowledge about palliative care; b) Palliative care organisation from the policymakers’ perspective. In the technicians' domain: a) knowledge about palliative care, b) clinical training, and c) medical specialty. Finally, in society: a) knowledge about palliative care.
Significance of the Results
Advancing general education, increasing qualitative training for the different health professionals, reformulating laws supporting them, promoting flexibility of the implementation methodologies, and establishing medical specialty, are crucial to achieving the proposed goal.
Harmonization in atmospheric dispersion modelling approaches to assess toxic consequences in the neighbourhood of industrial facilities
Authors: LACOME Jean-Marc , LEROY Guillaume , JOUBERT Lauris , TRUCHOT Benjamin
Published: September 2023

In the land use planning framework in the neighbourhood of industrial facilities, the current approach to predicting the consequences of massive toxic gas releases is generally based on Gaussian or integral models. For many years, CFD models have been more and more used in this context, in accordance with the development of High-Performance Computing (HPC). The present paper focuses on harmonizing input data for Atmospheric Transport and Dispersion (AT&D) modelling between the widely used approaches. First, a synthesis of the practice’s harmonization for atmospheric dispersion modelling within the framework of risk assessment is presented. Then, these practices are applied to a large-scale INERIS ammonia experimental release. For illustration purposes, the impact of the proposed harmonization will be evaluated using different approaches: the SLAB model, the FDS model and the Code_Saturne model. The two main focuses of this paper are the adaptation of the source term dealing with a massive release and the wind flow modelling performance using an experimental signal for CFD models inflow. Finally, comparisons between the modelling and experimental results enable checking the consistency of these approaches and reinforce the importance of the input data harmonization for each AT&D modelling approach.
The Guardian of Constitution: A Comparative Perspective of Indonesia and Cambodia
Authors: Sampe John , Ristawati Rosa , Hakyou Be
Published: September 2023

A democratic state may be indicated by the existence of a constitutional institution that has the competence to uphold constitutionalism and defend the constitution. As the guardian of the constitution, the Constitutional Council of the Kingdom of Cambodia (Constitutional Council) and the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Indonesia (Constitutional Court) have the same purpose, namely to uphold constitutionalism and protect the constitution. However, in terms of structure, procedures, and competencies, the Constitutional Council and the Constitutional Court have individual mechanisms. Institutionally, the two judicial bodies occupy different characteristics, but they share the common goal of safeguarding the constitution’s core values. This paper aims to analyze and scrutinize different features of the Constitutional Council and the Constitutional Court by showing the same purpose as the guardian of the constitution. Within this paper, the legal outcomes which is decisions are discussed, particularly the effect of the decisions. In addition, this paper looks into who can be the applicant or can file a complaint and clarifies the qualifications and resignations of judges. This paper concludes on whether the Constitutional Court and the Constitutional Council have different paths in upholding constitutionalism and protecting the constitution.
Serbest Cumhuriyet Fırkası’nın Liberalizm Anlayışı
Authors: YAVAŞÇA Kerem
Published: September 2023

Amaç: Bu araştırmanın amacı, Serbest Cumhuriyet Fırkası’nın (SCF) liberalizm anlayışını, fırkanın programı ve fırkanın ürettiği söylemler çerçevesinde incelemektir.
Tasarım/Yöntem: Araştırmada anakronik bir hataya yer vermemek amacıyla, 1920’lerin sonunda Avrupa’da liberalizm anlayışının temel umdeleri ortaya koyulmuştur. Bu çerçevede Ludwig von Mises’in 1927’de yayımlanan ve dönemin liberalizm anlayışının bütüncül bir özetini sunan Liberalizm eseri temel alınmıştır.
Bulgular: SCF’nin programı ve fırkanın ürettiği söylemler, dönemin liberalizm anlayışı çerçevesinde belirlenen yedi ilke baz alınarak irdelenmiştir. Araştırmada, SCF’nin ortaya koyduğu siyaset anlayışının büyük ölçüde liberalizm ilkeleriyle uyumlu olduğu; ancak iki noktada farklılaştığı sonucuna varılmıştır. Bu çerçevede, inanç özgürlüğü ve devletin ekonomideki rolünün kapsamı konularında SCF’nin görüşlerinin dönemin liberalizm anlayışıyla tam anlamıyla uyumlu olmadığı söylenebilir.
Sınırlılıklar: Çalışma, SCF’nin Türk demokrasi tarihi içindeki konumunu veya Türkiye’de siyasal hayatın gelişimi açısından konumunu tespit etmeyi amaçlamamaktadır. SCF’yi bütüncül bir bakış açısıyla değil, spesifik olarak ürettiği söylemlerin liberalizm ilkeleriyle uyumlu olup olmaması konusunda değerlendirmektedir. Bu, çalışmanın temel sınırlılığını oluşturmaktadır.
Özgünlük/Değer: SCF hakkında yapılan akademik çalışmalar, genel olarak, fırkanın ortaya çıkış sürecine odaklanmakta ve/veya iktidar-muhalefet ilişkilerini odağa alarak fırka hakkında değerlendirmeler ortaya koymaktadır. Ne var ki, SCF’nin, genelgeçer olarak kabul gördüğü gibi, söylemlerinin ne ölçüde liberalizm ilkeleriyle uyumlu olduğu konusuna yeterince ilgi gösterildiği söylenemez. Çalışma, SCF’nin liberalizm anlayışını irdeleyerek ve bu meyanda anlamlı sonuçlara ulaşarak literatüre katkıda bulunmayı amaçlamaktadır.
Quiet Quitting: Building a Comprehensive Theoretical Framework
Authors: ARAR Tayfun , ÇETİNER Nurcan , YURDAKUL Gülşen
Published: September 2023

In this study, we aimed to introduce the recently popular concept of quiet quitting to the organizational behavior literature. Although we have met a handful of studies on the concept, we realized that the relevant studies do not address the concept comprehensively based on any theoretical background but only one. Therefore, we conducted this study, which is still in its infancy, for further researchers to conduct it empirically within the scope of cause-and-effect relationships in the organizational behavior literature. First, we grounded the term on Social Exchange Theory, Conservation of Resources Theory, and Theory of Generations. Second, we briefly defined the term. Third, we discussed possible antecedents, expected outcomes, issues having bi-directional effects, and the ways how to deal with these issues in organizations. Finally, we proposed a conceptual model including all possible cause-and-effect hypotheses.
Cari Açık – Finansal Gelişme İlişkisi: Kırılgan Beşli Örneği
Authors: ŞENGÜL Oğuzhan
Published: September 2023

Amaç: Bu çalışmanın amacı “Kırılgan beşli” ülkelerinde oluşan cari açığın temelinde finansal sistemin olup olmadığının ampirik olarak test edilmesidir.
Tasarım/Yöntem: “Kırılgan beşli” ülkelerinde finansal sistemin gelişmesinin ve liberalize olmasının cari açığı artırıp artmadığı panel data analiz teknikleri ile test edilmektedir.
Bulgular: Test sonuçları cari açık ile finansal gelişmişliğin arasında sadece uzun dönemde karşılıklı nedensellik ilişkisinin olduğunu göstermektedir.
Sınırlılıklar: Bu çalışmada “Kırılgan beşli” ülkeleri şeklinde adlandırılan Brezilya, Hindistan, Endonezya, Güney Afrika ve Türkiye’de cari açık ve finansal gelişme ilişkisi incelenmiştir.
Özgünlük/Değer: İktisat literatüründe belirleyicileri üzerinde çok sayıda çalışma yapılan cari açık sorunu, 2013 yılı sonrasında gelişmekte olan ülkeler kategorisinde yer alan beş ülke için önemli hale gelmiş ve bu ülkeler Morgan Stanley tarafından yayınlanan raporda “Kırılgan beşli” ülkeleri şeklinde adlandırılmıştır. Bu ülkeler Brezilya, Hindistan, Endonezya, Güney Afrika ve Türkiye’dir. Söz konusu ekonomiler küresel finans krizi sonrası dönemde cari dengesizliklerinin yanı sıra 2013 sonrası dönemde sermaye çıkışlarından olumsuz etkilenmişlerdir.
Biopower and the construction of an ethnic disease (based on the example of the Kashubians)
Authors: Kwaśniewska Anna
Published: September 2023

The notion of biopower signifies managing populations by regulating and controlling life-related processes. This power medicalizes society, and in the age of genetics, a unique role is played by genetic research, which has led to the discovery of new diseases, one of them being the LCHAD enzyme deficiency, which is relatively common in the Kashubian population. In this case study, I present the process of constructing this rare genetic disease into an ethnic disease. I argue that a significant role in this was played by doctors and journalists who, using cultural capital, symbolic violence, and the power wielded by news media, spread the term “Kashubian gene,” suggesting that it is a common disease in this ethnic-regional group. Despite adverse effects, the hype has also yielded some positive consequences: it contributed to introducing newborn screening tests aimed at diagnosing the disease, thus saving human lives.
Proces aztekizace synkretického rituálu Danza Conchera ve středním Mexiku
Authors: Leisky Michelle
Published: September 2023

V současné době existují dvě hlavní větve rituálu Danza Azteca – synkretický rituál Danza Azteca Conchera (často pouze Danza Conchera) a její novější verze zvaná Danza Azteca-Mexica, rituál „očištěný od katolických prvků“, který se vyvinul z Danza Conchera. Tento článek se věnuje synkretickému rituálu Danza Conchera ve středním Mexiku a procesu tzv. aztekizace, během nějž se zaváděly nové aztécké prvky do rituálu a jehož cílem bylo, aby se Danza Conchera přiblížila své domnělé původní verzi provozované v době aztécké říše. Jelikož aztekizovaný rituál Danza Conchera sloužil jako základní stavební kámen pozdějším skupinám Danza Azteca-Mexica, tento článek zkoumá klíčové prvky a osoby spojované s procesem aztekizace dle vyprávění současných Concheros a Mexicas. Opírá o výsledky terénního výzkumu autorky z let 2009-2017, zúčastněné pozorování, stejně jako o osobní a telefonická etnografická interview z let 2010-2021 a odbornou literaturu.
Gas Mitigation Technology Review and Impact on Production Optimization for CO2 Applications
Authors: Cox J. S. , El Mahbes R. M. , Sikes M. A.
Published: September 2023

Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) utilizing carbon dioxide (CO2) has proven to be a very effective method of increasing the production of reserves in the Permian Basin and other parts of the United States. However, this recovery method increases the volume of gas that needs to be managed, with the added complexity of a varying gas density due to changing ratios of CO2 and natural gas as the flood progresses.

In previous SPE papers, the authors explored the use of various gas avoidance technologies and how effective they were in terms of CO2 avoidance, handling, and separation. This paper will combine knowledge of multiple forms of gas handling devices with experience specific to CO2. Gas mitigation methods reviewed will include shrouded ESP systems with and without dip tubes, inverted shrouds and encapsulated ESPs with forced cooling through recirculation.

This paper examines how the systems and methods are similar, notes their main differences, and compares production impacts before and after implementation of the technology. The paper will conclude with recommendations for improvements and enhancements to achieve better results on future installations, including using a combination of technologies for CO2 EOR or wells with high gas/liquid ratios (GLRs).
Stones Gulf of Mexico Single-Phase Subsea Pump Operation Under Gas Conditions to Enhance Production
Authors: Barrios L. , Merlino A. , Brutz J. , Whitaker K. , Overstreet J. , Arkhipova K. , Rojas M. , Dowdy B. , Pisarev G. , Solvoll F.
Published: September 2023

In a Gulf of Mexico ultra-Deepwater field (with a water depth of 10,000 ft), high-boost single-phase centrifugal subsea pumps operation under gas conditions were used to optimize overall field production by lowering the pump suction pressure below the bubblepoint to safely operate the pumps under two-phase liquid and gas production. The subsea single-phase pump (SPP) system used in Stones Field comprises multistage centrifugal pumps for high-rate (30,000 B/D) and high-boost applications. In pump applications, multiphase flow can cause problems such as performance degradation, system inefficiency, and failures that must be considered to safely operate pumps under free gas flow.

Stones pressure/volume/temperature (PVT) fluids have a range of uncertainties, leading to bubblepoints from 900–1,200 psia. Subsea Single-phase pump has been in operation in Stones since 2019, with a minimum suction pressure operating limit of 1,200 psi. The primary objective in further decreasing the suction pressure to operate below the bubblepoint was to increase the overall production through a process that integrated risk assessment, pump performance and flowline dynamic modeling, topside considerations, operating procedures, and a management of change process to approve opportunity and move to execution.

Risk assessment and operator in-house pump expertise were key enablers to assess the feasibility of the opportunity and define the primary risks to the artificial lift system while operating below the bubblepoint. A risk/value tradeoff was performed to understand value over pump failure for the Stones overall production.

Following implementation, a detailed surveillance strategy was put in place to mitigate the primary risks associated with the pump operating with allowed free gas. Up to today a total net gain of approximately 10% is being increase in the overall Stone production operating subsea pump below bubble point at 875 psia suction pressure.

The primary technical contributions of this work are the detailed technical approach and the use of analysis and data with field operation to predict pump performance and safely operate the pumps in two-phase flow in the SPP.
AI-Based Approach for ESP Optimization
Authors: Hnot T. , Vasylyshyn B. , Struk A. , Benham D. , Meek J. , Ferrara N.
Published: September 2023

ESP performance and health optimization play a crucial role in maximizing oil well production and overall profitability. The selection of appropriate control set points, such as pump frequency and tubing pressure, and the intervals at which adjustments are made, significantly impact production outcomes. This paper introduces an AI-based approach for ESP optimization that operates in near real-time, allowing for dynamic set point adjustments based on varying well conditions.

A dataset comprising telemetry, production, and statistical features from 193 ESP-operated wells was utilized to train the optimization model. The dataset covers a total duration of 67,358 days, averaging approximately 349 days per well. The telemetry feature set encompasses 23 distinct values, while additional information, such as well age, peak production rates, theoretical production rates, and other pertinent factors, was incorporated to provide valuable insights into various well characteristics. By leveraging this extensive dataset and employing AI techniques, the proposed approach enables effective ESP optimization, improving production outcomes and overall well profitability.
ESP Conveyance Modelling in Higher DLS Wells
Authors: Gorden William C. , Manfoumbi Wilfried , Payette Gregory S.
Published: September 2023

With increasing numbers of unconventional horizontal wells on single pads and the desire to get deeper unconventional wells drilled to TD as economically as possible, higher well deviations and Dogleg Severities (DLSs) have posed challenges for Electrical Submersible Pump (ESP) conveyance. These challenges have led to situations where high bending stress during ESP conveyance has led to early ESP failure. To mitigate the potential for high bending stress during ESP conveyance, there has been: A renewed focus on drilling intermediate hole sections with low DLS, andWorkflow changes to obtain and analyze gyro surveys on wells following handover from Drilling before perf & frac operations.

Summarized in the paper is a series of short run ESP failures in the Permian Basin that led to these new workflows for A/L selection and ESP conveyance planning. The study was initiated with a review of ESP teardown reports which revealed that most failures in the study area were not linked to high ESP bending stress during conveyance, but rather to Iron Sulfide (FeS) scaling within the ESPs. Nonetheless, Software was used to analyze and quantify ESP bending stress during conveyance for historical and future wells,A FeS scale inhibitor trial was initiated by adding chemical to the frac stages for some future ESP candidate wells, andApproximately 30 high resolution (1-ft) gyro surveys were collected in 5 ½" and 7" casing and processed at 1’, 15’, 25’ and 100’ intervals. Various metrics were calculated using the data, including wellbore DLS and Effective Rigid Pass-Through Diameter to highlight the advantage of gyros over traditional low resolution MWD surveys in wells where ESPs are planned.
Field Trial Result of a New Concept of Downhole Gas Slug Mitigation in Unconventional Well
Authors: Brown D. J. , Sheth K. K. , Munoz J.
Published: September 2023

Conventional gas separators struggle processing and delivering liquid to the pump during a gas slug event due to extremely high concentrations of gas within the separator, as there is little to no liquid to process and deliver to the pump. A special gas separator developed for mitigating the effect of gas slugs replaced a conventional, high flow, tandem gas separator system in a slugging well. The development and initial field trial results are discussed in this paper.

An investigation of the effect of gas slugs on conventional gas separator systems, where fluid entering the separator fluctuates from 97% liquid to 97% gas with varying amounts of time, inspired the creation of a novel gas separator design. A new separator with internal reservoirs, to provide additional liquid to be processed during a gas slug event, was constructed. The prototype was installed in an unconventional well with a severe "toe up" condition creating slugging initially after production started. The inability of a conventional separator to prevent gas locking in this well motivated the operatorto allow a field trial of the new separator.

Extreme interruptions in production in the well began just below 2000psi Pump Intake Pressure (PIP) resulting in severe gas slugging, and a premature failure of the ESP string. The initial gas separator was a tandem gas separator. The operator, having been made aware of a novel separator designed with slug mitigation, suggested a field trial of the concept separator.

The second installation included a new pump (having best efficiency point (BEP) from 3500 BPD to 1750 BPD) due to well conditions and the tandem gas separator was replaced with the new gas separator, a single gas separatorwith an additional liquid reservoir concept.

The field results were very encouraging. The new separator allowed drawdown below 1200 psi PIP with no interruption in production. As the PIP approached 1100 psi the slugs grew in duration and frequency, resulting in operating thedriveinProportional Integral Derivative (PID) mode and eventually gas lock mode. The most important proof of the concept was the operator's ability to operate continually through February of 2023 to a 1000 psi drawdown and an increase of gas production of nearly 20%

Data generated from the field trial has resulted in further development of the concept, including a tandem version and increased liquid storage area for increasing slug duration.

By design, slugging is a problem in most unconventional wells. In the transition from horizontal to vertical, the flow evolves into a type of slugging flow. With the drawdown of pump intake pressure, the gas percentages increase and thereby increase the size or duration of the slugs of gas. The conceptual method of providing reserve liquid within a separator to mitigate this issue has proven successful.