bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revealing Consequences of the Husking Process on Nutritional Profiles of Two Sorghum Races on the Male Sterility Line
Authors: Khalfalla Maha , Zsombik László , Győri Zoltán
Published: March 2024

Sorghum grain processing can improve the nutritional content by promoting dietary properties that contribute to food security and economic development. The quality, nutritional content, and processing properties of sorghum bicolor grain can greatly affected by the inbred line races and variance in pericarp colour.The current study assessed the influence of the Husking Fraction Time Units (HFTU) process, which employed set time units per second (S), on the variation in the nutritional profile of fifty-one inbred line sorghum varieties based on distinct pericarp colours. When the assessment of the nutritional profile was involved: dry matter, total protein besides, namely mineral (P, K, S, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Zn, and Mn). The variety groups showed a significance value of (P < 0.05), indicating the study hypothesis's truth.The results demonstrated substantial impacts implied by the Husking Fraction Time Unit (HFTU) technique. This occurrence was noted when the dry matter percentage was increased in the husked products, specifically the endosperm (grits) and bran. The protein percentage redistributed by 19.2% compared to the whole grain and bran content. In comparison, the ratio of N/S was 14:1 in the S. bicolor and 12:1 in the kafirin in the bran part. Moreover, a strong correlation was observed among the examined minerals of S.bicolor and kafirin, such as the correlation between Ca: P, K: Na, and Fe: Zn attributed 80 (S) time unit, with correlation coefficients of R = 0.784 and R = 0.586, R= 517, R= 0.884, R= 0.745, and R = 0.893, respectively. At the same time, the 80 (S) time unit showed a significant effect on the colour property profile.The study results could benefit breeders and nutrition specialists in developing genotypes and processing sorghum grains, promoting research, and aiding several industrial sectors owing to the grain's adaptability and nutritional properties.
Fractional Order Model of Dynamical Behavior and Qualitative Analysis of Anthrax with infected Vector and Saturation
Authors: Loyinmi Adedapo Chris , Lateef Ijaola Alani
Published: March 2024

We presented a fractional order model to capture the transmission dynamics of Anthrax infection with a nonlinear force of infection and its long-term impacts. Analysis by the standard Fabrizio Caputo approach established the model is well-posed and investigation on the stability of the model, Anthrax-free equilibrium as connected to the basic reproduction number R0
Tunnel Effect in Acoustics
Authors: Germano Massimo
Published: March 2024

Traversal time in tunneling effect for ultrasonic waves in tapered waveguides is derived considering its analogy with quantum and electromagnetic waves tunneling. If, as traversal time, the so called phase time is considered, the ultrasonic wavepacket shows the equivalent in acoustics of superluminality i.e. the derived velocity , crosses the limit of bulk transverse ultrasonic waves in the medium of the waveguide that is the equivalent of c in the quantum and electromagnetic cases. Graphs clearly illustrating this so called Hartman effect are obtained confirming the experimental results in the three different fields.
Development of FRET Biosensor to Characterize CSK Subcellular Regulations
Authors: Ouyang Mingxing , Xing Yujie , Zhang Shumin , Li Liting , Pan Yan , Deng Linhong
Published: March 2024

C-terminal Src kinase (CSK) is the major inhibitory kinase for Src family kinases (SFKs) through phosphorylation of their C-tail tyrosine site, and regulates various cellular activities in association with SFKs functions. As a cytoplasmic protein, CSK need be recruited to the plasma membrane to regulate SFKs activities. The regulatory mechanism for CSK activity and its subcellular localization remains largely unclear. In this work, we developed a genetically encoded biosensor based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) to visualize CSK activity in live cells. The biosensor with optimized substrate peptide confirmed crucial Arg107 site in CSK SH2 domain, and displayed sensitivity and specificity to CSK activity while little responses to co-transfected Src and Fyn. FRET measurements showed CSK having relatively mild level of kinase activity in comparison to Src and Fyn ones in rat airway smooth muscle cells. The biosensor tagged with different submembrane-targeting signals detected CSK activity at both non-lipid raft and lipid raft microregions, while showed higher FRET level at non-lipid ones. Co-transfected receptor-type protein tyrosine phosphatase alpha (PTPα) had inhibitory effect on the CSK FRET response. The biosensor didn’t detect obvious changes of CSK activity between metastatic cancer cells and normal ones. In conclusion, a novel FRET biosensor was generated to monitor CSK activity, and demonstrated CSK activity existing in both non-lipid and lipid raft membrane microregions while more present at non-lipid ones.
Food, Growth and Biological Production of European Eel Anguilla anguilla in a Small Stream in Jutland, Denmark
Authors: Rasmussen Gorm , Therkildsen Birgit , Pedersen Michael
Published: March 2024

Yellow eels were sampled by electrofishing in 1979, 1980 and 1981 in Vester Vedsted Baeck, Denmark, stem 6 km, catchment 24 km2, with outlet to the North Sea. Yellow eels were aged by burning the otoliths. The eels were not sexed, and they varied from 6.5 to 44 cm in length. The ages varied from 0+ to 10+ year. The annual growth rate ∆ varied from 3.4 cm for 0+ eel to 2.2 cm for 10+ eel with a mean of 3.1 cm. Body mass wet wt. was recalculated to Kcal energy, with an annual growth rate ∆ of 5.33 Kcal. In contrast to body mass, the annual growth rate ∆ in Kcal increased with age. Von Bertalanffy growth trajectory (cm) of length-at-age was calculated and L∞ = 118.4 cm. Annual natural mortality M was estimated, and M was significantly depending on body mass, i.e. high M and low body mass vs. low M at high body mass. The biological production was calculated to 13.5 g wet weight m-2 year-1. Total 780 eel stomachs were analyzed, of which 287 (37%) were empty. The weight of food content (2.1% of eel body mass) increased proportional with eel body mass. Chironomid larvae, Ephemeroptera nymph, Simulium larvae and Gammarus pulix were the dominating food taxa, followed by Trichoptera larvae. Size of prey were independent on length of eel.
Phytophthora Communities Associated with Agathis australis (kauri) in Te Wao Nui o Tiriwa/Waitākere Ranges, New Zealand
Authors: Hunter Shannon , Horner Ian , Hosking Jack , Carroll Ellena , Newland Jayne , Arnet Matthew , Waipara Nick , Burns Bruce , Scott Peter , Williams Nari
Published: March 2024

Studies of Phytophthora impacts in forests generally focus on individual species without recogni-tion that Phytophthora occur in multispecies communities. We investigated community structure of Phytophthora species in the rhizosphere of Agathis australis (kauri) in Te Wao Nui o Tiriwa / Waitākere Ranges, New Zealand, in the context of kauri dieback disease expression. Soil sampling and tree health monitoring was conducted on 767 randomly selected mature kauri trees. Phy-tophthora species were detected using both soil baiting and DNA metabarcoding of eDNA. Four species were detected with soil baiting (P. agathidicida, P. cinnamomi, P. multivora, and P. pseudo-cryptogea) and an additional three species with metabarcoding (P. kernoviae, P. cactorum/P. aleatoria and an unknown clade 7 species). Phytophthora cinnamomi was the most abundant species and was distributed throughout the forest. Both P. multivora and P. agathidicida were limited to forest edges, suggesting more recent arrivals. P. agathidicida presence was strongly correlated with declining canopy health, confirming its role as the main river of kauri dieback. The limited distribution of P. agathidicida and infrequent detections (11.0% samples) suggests that that this species is spreading as an introduced invasive pathogen and provide hope that with strategic management uninfected areas of the forest can be protected. The frequent detections of P.cinnamomi and P. multivora, from symptomatic trees in the absence of P. agathidicida suggest more research is needed to understand their roles in kauri forest health.
Pin-on-Plate vs. Pin-on-Disk Wear Tests: Theoretical and Numerical Observations on the Initial Transient Phase
Authors: Di Puccio Francesca , Di Pietro Andrea , Mattei Lorenza
Published: March 2024

Pin-on-plate and pin-on-disk wear tests are typically used for assessing the wear behavior of a given material coupling. Such a behavior is frequently described by a wear coefficient k, which is estimated, according to the Archard’s law, as the ratio between the measured wear volume V and the product of the applied normal force F and the sliding distance s, i.e. k=V/(F s). This study demonstrates that such a relationship is correct for pin-on-plate but not for pin-on-disk, particularly for flat-ended pins. Both analytical and finite element models of the two tests were developed, considering three different distances pin-disk axis. As results, wear volumes, pressure and wear depth maps were examined and compared for the same sliding distance. Though this study is focused only on the initial transient part of the wear tests, some interesting aspects arose: i) rotational effect in pin-on-disk tests affects k estimation, especially when the pin is near to the disk axis; ii) a simple analytical function is defined to correct the wear volume estimation for pin-on-disk tests; iii) due to the different sliding distances of contact points in pin-on-disk tests, pressure redistribution occurs with higher values on the inner side (closer to disk axis); the opposite trend is observed in wear depth maps. From a computational point of view, the pin-on-disk problem, only apparently simple, required very small time increments to correctly describe the circular trajectories of points, with high computational costs. Numerical strategies are currently under investigation to extend the study to the steady state phase of both tests.
Bayesian networks in the management of hospital admissions: a comparison between explainable AI and black box AI during the pandemics.
Authors: Nicora Giovanna , Catalano Michele , Bortolotto Chandra , Achilli Marina Francesca , Messana Gaia , Lo Tito Antonio , Consonni Alessio , Cutti Sara , Comotto Federico , Stella Giulia Maria , Corsico Angelo Guido , Perlini Stefano , Bellazzi Riccardo , Bruno Raffaele , Preda Lorenzo
Published: March 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) approaches that could learn from large data sources have been identified as useful tools to support clinicians in their decisional process; AI and ML implementations have had a rapid acceleration during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. However, many ML classifiers are “black box” to the final user, since their underlying reasoning process is often obscure. Additionally, the performance of such models suffer from poor generalization ability in presence of dataset shift. Here, we present a comparison between an explainable-by-design (“white box”) model (Bayesian Network (BN)) versus a black-box model (Random Forest), both studied with the aim to support clinicians of Policlinico San Matteo University Hospital in Pavia (Italy) during the triage of COVID-19 patients. Our aim is to evaluate whether the BN predictive performances are comparable with those of a widely used but less explainable ML model such as Random Forest and to test the generalization ability of the ML models across different waves of the pandemic.
Transcriptomic Analysis to Identify Melatonin-mediated Salt-responsive Genes During the Germinated Stage of Alfalfa
Authors: Liu Zirui , Ren Xiangling , Zhu Wenxuan , Li Yingao , Li Guoming , Liu Caifeng , Li Defeng , Shi Yinghua , Wang Chengzhang , Sun Hao , Zhu Xiaoyan
Published: March 2024

Salt stress is one of the major abiotic stresses that lead to crop yield reduction worldwide. Melatonin (MT), an endogenous hormone synthesized in plants, plays an important role in responding to abiotic stimuli such as drought, salinity, heat, cold, etc. However, the molecular mechanisms of MT-mediated abiotic stresses remain to be better understood. In order to explore the key genes and pathways of melatonin in alleviating salt stress, physiological and biochemical indicators as well as transcriptomics profile were conducted in alfalfa seedlings. The results showed that the germination rate, bud length and fresh weight of alfalfa seedlings added with melatonin were higher than those treated with salt alone. In addition, Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Superoxide anion (O2-) contents also displayed a decreasing trend. The activity and content of Superoxide dismutase (SOD)、peroxidase (POD) and Glutathione (GSH) increased to varying degrees. In order to further reveal the molecular mechanism of MT-mediated salt tolerance of alfalfa, transcriptome analysis was performed on alfalfa seedlings. 2,181 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained in the salt-treated group, including 780 upregulated genes and 1,401 down-regulated genes, while 4,422 DEGs were obtained in the MT group, among which 1,438 were upregulated and 2,984 were downregulated. By using GO functional annotation and KEGG pathway enrichment, we found that DEGs were mainly enriched in the biosynthesis of flavonoids, isoflavones, plant hormones, Glutathione (GSH), soluble sugars and other substances, as well as in the ABC transporter and MAPK signaling pathways. Among them, the DEGs in the MT group was more enriched in these pathways, suggesting that MT can combat salt stress by regulating the expression of genes related to phytohormone and antioxidant capacity, which has important reference value for the breeding of salt-tolerant alfalfa and other crops.
Developmental, Physiologic and Phylogenetic Perspectives on the Expression and Regulation of Myosin Heavy Chains in Craniofacial Muscles
Authors: Hoh Joseph Foon Yoong
Published: March 2024

This review deals with the developmental origins of extraocular, jaw and laryngeal muscles, the expression, regulation and functional significance of myosin heavy chains (MyHCs) they express and changes in MyHC expression during phylogeny. Myogenic progenitors from mesoderm in the prechordal plate and branchial arches specify craniofacial muscle allotypes with different repertoires for MyHC expression. To cope with very complex eye movements, extraocular muscles express 11 MyHCs, ranging from the superfast extraocular MyHC to the slowest, non-muscle MyHC IIB. They have distinct global and orbital layers, singly- and multiply-innervated fibres, longitudinal MyHC variations, and palisade endings that mediate axon reflexes. Jaw-closing muscles express the high-force masticatory MyHC, cardiac or limb MyHCs depending on the appropriateness for the acquisition and mastication of their food. Laryngeal muscles express extraocular and limb muscle MyHCs but shift towards slower MyHCs in large animals. During postnatal development, MyHC expression of craniofacial muscles is subject to neural and hormonal modulation. The primary and secondary myotubes of developing EOMs are postulated to induce, via different retrogradely transported neurotrophins, the rich diversity of neural impulse patterns that regulate the specific MyHCs they express. Thyroid hormone shifts 2A MyHC towards 2B in jaw, laryngeal muscles and possibly extraocular muscles.
COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance and Associated Factors among General Population
Authors: Lee Jung-Whan
Published: March 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to examine COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among general population in Korea and to identify variables affecting the vaccine acceptance.Methods: Data for the study were taken from the 2021 Korean General Social Survey which collected them from a national sample of 1,205 adults aged 18 and up who lived in households in Korea using face-to-face interviews with a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis and multiple regression analysis.Results: The rate of COVID-19 vaccination was 73.1% and the mean score of vaccine acceptance was 4.7 on a 5-point scale. Among the variables in the study, age, education, experience of flu vaccination, wearing a mask and evaluation of government policy responses to COVID-19 appeared to be salient in predicting the COVID-19 vaccine acceptance.Conclusions: Policies and programs to promote COVID-19 vaccination need to develop with consideration of various factors including sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviors, attitudes and perception to COVID-19 among general people.
The Impact of Nursing Students’ Characteristics on Sustaining Career Decision-making Self-efficacy, Career Decision Level and Career Resilience: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Cho Eun Jung , Lee Mi Ryon
Published: March 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify nursing students’ characteristic factors sustaining career decision-making self-efficacy, career decision level and career resilience over time.Methods: A longitudinal survey with the four-phase study design was conducted using self-reported questionnaires among 77 second-year students enrolled in BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program at a college in Daegu Metropolitan City. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, McNemar test, repeated measures ANOVA and linear mixed model.Results: The impact of subjects’ higher level of career decision-making self-efficacy, career decision level and career resilience in BSN 2nd year was continued until the end of BSN 4th year and 3 to 5 years post-graduation. The influence of career decision-making self-efficacy at a higher level carried on regarding higher satisfaction both in major and college life and the ICPP (individual career plan program) score of 70 or greater, career decision level underwent relating to higher satisfaction in major, and career resilience sustained concerning higher satisfaction both in major and college life and the ICPP score of 70 or greater in BSN 2nd year.Conclusions: Personal factors sustaining career decision-making self-efficacy, career decision level and career resilience over time were the successful experience regarding satisfaction of nursing major and college life, and the ICPP score in pre-clinical BSN year. The continuing career planning and development program of early-career nurses may be provided before entering 3 years nursing career to ensure sustainable career resilience and related variables.
Ratios of Sulfur Isotopes (32S, 33S, 34S, and 36S) in Archean Rocks of Karelia: Evidence of Microbial Life and the Anoxic Atmosphere
Authors: Velivetskaya T.A. , Ignatiev A.V. , Vysotskiy S.V. , Aseeva A.V.
Published: March 2024

––We have studied sulfur isotope ratios (33S/32S, 34S/32S, and 36S/32S) archived in the volcanic and ferruginous rocks of the Sumozero–Kenozero (ca. 2.9 Ga) and Kostomuksha (ca. 2.7 Ga) greenstone belts of the Fennoscandian Shield. The obtained data provide new arguments for developing ideas of the bacterial activity in the Archean ocean and the involvement of sulfur in the biogenic cycle and also indicate no free oxygen in the Archean Earth’s atmosphere. The isotope data on 34S and 33S show a high activity of sulfate-reducing and sulfur-disproportionating bacteria in the surface environments of Archean sedimentary rocks. The discovery of 33S and 36S anomalies in the studied rocks is the main evidence for the anoxic atmosphere during the formation of Meso- and Neoarchean deposits in Karelia.
Uncertainty Quantification Through the Assimilation of CO2 Plume Size from 4D Seismic Survey
Authors: Saleh W. Ben , Zhang B.
Published: March 2024

Geological models of saline aquifers used for CO2 storage inherently involve uncertainties due to limited data. This requires innovative approaches to quantify the impact of geological uncertainties on CO2 plume size and monitoring strategies. To address this issue, data assimilation and history matching have been widely employed. These approaches use diverse measurement, monitoring and verification (MMV) data such as pressure measurements, saturation logs, and surface monitoring data to reduce uncertainties associated with simulations. However, in carbon storage, 4D time-lapse seismic images are crucial and can provide valuable input for assessing uncertainties in CO2 storage models by providing estimates of CO2 plume migration at certain time intervals. In this study, a methodology is proposed to quantify the uncertainties in geological models for CO2 storage by the assimilation of CO2 plume size data derived from 4D seismic images taken at different injection periods.

To consider a wide range of uncertainties, data-driven proxy models are developed using high-fidelity coupled reservoir-geomechanics simulations data to overcome the prohibitive computational issues on numerous realizations (>1000). The trained proxy models are used to forecast the CO2 plume size at multiple time intervals for a large sample of newly generated geomodels. A sample rejection procedure is implemented to quantify uncertainty and filter consistent, or history-matched geological realizations. The proposed workflow is implemented for an existing geological CO2 storage site in Western Canada. The proxy model is not only capable of predicting CO2 plume evolution with high accuracy but also shows a notable computational time reduction. A considerable reduction in geological model uncertainty is achieved using the proposed methodology. Among the 10,000 geological realizations, only 926 realizations are accepted as posterior models. The uncertainty quantification method proposed in this study effectively addresses geological model uncertainties based on available seismic survey and provides valuable insights into consideration of the geological uncertainty in CO2 storage modeling and design of MMV program for CO2 storage projects.
Integrated Solutions for P&A Using a Real-Time Downhole Monitoring System Saved Rig Time and Avoided Typical Deepwater Intervention-Related Problems, Offshore Brazil
Authors: Vivas Victor , Nunes Mauro , Apolinar Mario
Published: March 2024

As an oilfield reaches its expected End Of Field Life (EOFL), permanent abandonment is required to meet local regulations, specifically for wells where the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel has been de-commissioned within the last three (3) years if no monitoring has been performed in this period. However, this abandonment campaign faced well integrity issues, and the mandate from local authorities was to suspend the wells. Using Coiled Tubing (CT) with a Real-Time (RT) downhole monitoring system added value to the operation and its successful completion, saving time and avoiding unexpected events.

The methodology behind this campaign followed customer requirements to either P&A or suspend the wells, depending on the case. A series of inflatable packers were included as a base for cement and/or to cement the A annulus. It was critical to punch the inner tubing to communicate with the A annulus and be able to cement it. CT with Cable (E-line) installed conveyed a punch downhole with RT communication between the surface and the Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA). The RT downhole monitoring BHA was also important for accurately correlating depth and acquiring downhole data such as pressure and temperature to help ensure the correct placement and inflation of the packers and monitoring the cement slurry behavior.

A total of two (2) wells were successfully temporarily abandoned from a Drill Ship using CT to clean, punch, and place cement plugs in the annulus and tubing (using inflatable packers). The remaining wells were suspended according to V0 barrier philosophy, and throughout the operation, faster decisions were possible due to the RT downhole data from the BHA sensors being transmitted to the surface.

The surface equipment and BHA selected for the operation were part of the strategy for faster rig Up (R/U), Rig Down (R/D), and changing from one well intervention method to another when required. This included using a Coiled Tubing Lifting Frame (CTLF) with an injector table to swap from CT to Wireline (WL) quickly while keeping the CT injector and stripper with the main BHA rigged up during WL interventions. The synergy between multiple service lines created an optimal solution by fine-tuning the cement slurry rheology with hydraulic simulations and using a WL punch that was deemed most suitable for the application.

This paper covers the thru-tubing operation to abandon and/or suspend the wells using CT while saving overall time to R/U and R/D for both the CT and WL. It resulted in a more coordinated and reliable operation, avoiding typical problems often associated with P&A in deepwater. It describes the challenges faced and the solutions implemented to address them and complete the campaign's objective.
New Coiled Tubing Fatigue Management System with Real-Time Vessel Data: Step-Change to Cost and Reliability in Open-Water Interventions
Authors: Fonseca S. Hassig , Bridge C. , Liu Z. , Brouwer W. , Vodnikov N. , Spesivtsev P.
Published: March 2024

Early attempts to monitor coiled tubing (CT) fatigue in open-water interventions relied on basic statistical methods with a constant damage rate and broad generalizations of sea conditions. The new CT fatigue management system (FMS) comprises hardware and software that improve fatigue tracking. It tracks high-cycle fatigue (HCF) and low-cycle fatigue (LCF) simultaneously and in real time, elevating the accuracy, immediacy, and reliability of CT fatigue monitoring in open-water interventions.

The hardware monitors vessel pitch and roll in real time and relays the data to an acquisition system where they are combined with CT depth and circulating pressure. The new acquisition software consumes these data as well as a CT string fatigue life database and geometry and positions of the CT string, work drum, and payout sheave. LCF and HCF are accurately modeled, and the string fatigue life is updated in real time. That information allows the operation to strategically cycle the CT pipe to manage fatigue more efficiently and extend the time before a trim is necessary.

The traditional statistical method recorded a cumulative CT fatigue damage of 16% over a 14-hour job. In that same timeframe, the CT FMS measured a cumulative fatigue of 3.8%. Since the CT FMS updates damage rate continuously in response to vessel dynamics and uses a nonlinear methodology to combine HCF and LCF, it reduces inaccuracy and eliminates unnecessary safety factors associated with the statistical method. By improving precision and reliability, the real-time CT FMS safely extended the useful life of CT pipes by 75%.

The CT FMS also improves operational integrity by introducing alarm threshold settings and custom material parameters. Alarms are raised reflecting fatigue life growth, tubing payout, and changes to sea conditions. This provides the operator with real-time, actionable data to ensure a more even distribution of the fatigue along the CT. Besides extending useful life, this reduces the risk of CT failure, which can lead to costly downtime, reputational damage, and production losses. The string's operating limits are more accurately monitored, which extends the capacity of the CT into harsher environments, longer operations, and riserless interventions of wider workscope. The CT FMS automates workflows that previously required a dedicated technician, reducing crew size on board.

The introduction of CT in open-water interventions brought with it the risk of CT failure, which is inherent to any operation that handles CT pipe. This industry first, real-time CT FMS combines HCF and LCF monitoring and is a step change from the traditional methods to address these CT-related risks. Furthermore, the CT FMS elevates overall operational integrity, increases operational efficiency, and extends the operational envelope and application of CT in open-water interventions.
Dynamic E-Line Conveyed Milling Solution Remediates Subsea (XT) Gate Valve Operating From RLWI
Authors: Ndjawe Yannick , Briere Benjamin , Lescoulie David , Bragas Arnaud , Penka Joel , Hernandez Andres , Macpherson Bill , Hallaire Maximilien , Borg Peder Løkke
Published: March 2024

An oil-producing subsea well located offshore Congo was equipped with an inoperable subsea vertical xmas tree (XT), in specific the production master gate valve in the vertical bore stuck at 55% to 65% open following the measurement of the valve stub. The inoperability of the valve actuators resulted in the temporary closure of the oil-producing well in 2017, as it was defined necessary by the operator well integrity policy, for this reason, the XT had to be replaced using a rigless light well intervention (RLWI), due to water depth of 800meter. In order to do so, temporary plugs needed to be run in hole to provide temporary barriers and allow the XT tree change-out to be completed. To achieve such an objective the partially open gate valve had to be milled out.

The operator issued a challenge to the oilfield services industry to present a solution to mill the partially open gate valve via RLWI vessel. The supplier responded with a solution that could mill the gate valve in a single run, including recovery of the milled coupon. In addition, the solution would ensure that all the operational well barriers remained free from obstruction in the event of the milling toolstring becoming stuck, with fishing contingencies also in place.

The resulting solution utilized a wireline-deployed milling toolstring equipped with a fully automated milling stroker, a metal matrix compound (MMC) core bit with an eccentric spear mechanism, shearable spacers, and contingency featuring an electric release fishing tool (ERFT). The benefits of this solution related to several areas; the surface read-out system allowed precise control of the milling BHA.

The partially open gate valve was successfully milled through, and the coupon recovered to the surface on a single run, with a total milling time of 14 hours and 40 minutes.

This paper discusses the challenges and solutions related to milling a partially open gate valve on a closed oil-producing subsea well using an RLWI vessel offshore Congo. It covers the project scope, solution design, planning, equipment preparation, job execution, and provides estimates of risk and cost reduction to as well the added production level resulting from this operation.
Casing Inspection and Cement Evaluation on Drillpipe: Logging in Parallel with Existing Intervention Runs
Authors: Hawthorn A. , Groves D. , Osunjaye G.
Published: March 2024

The oil and gas industry is in a state of continually challenging the way to improve the efficiency and safety of well construction activities. An interesting path has been followed in the last 30 years in the development and use of logging while drilling tools. The measurement quality and reliability of these tools for open hole formation evaluation and geosteering has propelled an entire sequence of highly complex and highly deviated wells with enormous improvements in productivity from existing fields. You would be hard pressed to find any wells, particularly in the offshore domain, that do not utilize logging while drilling measurements that were once the province of wireline tools only. This development of technologies and tools has, as stated above, largely focused on open hole and while drilling applications only. The same cannot be said for cased hole evaluation tools in general, and for well integrity tools that measure the condition and properties of the casing and cement in particular. This paper will demonstrate the development of a new drillpipe conveyed tool that can both measure the casing condition and what is in the annular space behind the casing. We will show examples from around the world of the tools and how this was qualified versus the existing wireline deployed technology. We will then show a case history from the deepwater West Africa area where the tools were run in parallel with existing intervention operations across a sequence of wells to both increase the efficiency of operations and to de-risk the operation. The basic premise of the tool is that a drill collar is fitted with three circumferential pulse echo ultrasonic transducers. This allows for a full azimuthal image of the casing and annular space behind the casing if the tool is rotated, either from a downhole device such as a mud motor, or by surface rotation through the rig rotary table or top drive. The tool can be run in real-time and also in memory mode, in either case data is both processed downhole and the raw waveforms can be recovered from the tool when back on surface. Analysis of the acquired data allows for interpretation of internal caliper, the thickness of the casing, the location of casing collars and an evaluation of the material in the annular space behind the first casing string. The need to provide oriented images means the tool has magnetometers, accelerometers and a basic gyro measurement device that can be used for orientation of downhole devices such as whipstocks or oriented perforations.
Intervention Synergy Improving Production Enhancement Efficiency for Remote Offshore Well Intervention Operation
Authors: Hanafi M. M. Mohamed , Ismail N. , Anoar I. , Ong V. , Hamzah S. , Anuar K. Khairul , Singh K. , Cavalleri C. , Yong N. , Zailani M. F. I. , Ramondenc P. , Hofacker M.
Published: March 2024

Pulsed neutron spectroscopy is commonly used in the Malay Basin for cased hole formation evaluation to assess development potential and reserve opportunities. Sandstone formations in many fields have caused complications due to sand deposition in mature wells, making logging operations difficult. This work explores the enhancement of operational efficiency on remote offshore platforms by utilizing coiled tubing to convey pulsed neutron evaluation, thereby addressing the demands associated with facilitating more-effective well access operation and formation evaluation assessment.

Electric coiled tubing (e-coil) systems have expanded evaluation logging applications; however, lifting heavy e-coil reels onto offshore sites, especially remote platforms, remains challenging. Battery-powered tools transmitted via fiber optic–enabled real-time coiled tubing (FOERCT), which although widely used in the past decade, have limitations such as restricted power supply and logging time. To overcome these challenges, our work introduces contemporary hybrid cables, similar in size and weight to traditional fiber optics but with high-power transmission capabilities called monocable-enabled real-time coiled tubing (MERCT) This innovation provides an efficient means of tool conveyance in offshore coiled tubing logging and enables broader remote platform operations.

The application introduced in this work harnesses hydraulic capabilities to supplement sand cleanout procedures preceding cased hole evaluation. Traditionally, these operations involve the deployment of two separate services, which increases the operational footprint and extends the time required for completion. The application of MERCT has effectively reduced the total bottomhole assembly length by eliminating battery subs, consequently obviating the necessity for offshore pressure deployment. This strategic modification significantly bolsters overall operational safety and has yielded a 83%-time savings compared to a traditional deployment method. The single-service deployment and simplification represents a twofold enhancement in efficiency when compared to the previously utilized pulsed neutron logging method.

This advancement enables the development of lightweight coiled tubing logging solutions that are well suited for the challenges posed by offshore environments, including surface and topside constraints. The synergy and plug-and-play setup offered by this innovative approach reduce equipment footprint and simplify the overall execution of operations. This leads to safer deployments while maintaining equivalent levels of effectiveness and efficiency.
Estimating the Importance of Nano-Silica Sealing Parameters for Remediating Leaks in CO2 Geological Storage
Authors: Olayiwola Olatunji , Coulibaly Nabaladiomon , Liu Ning , Guo Boyun
Published: March 2024

In carbon capture and sequestration methods, the possibility of carbon dioxide leaking via fissures formed in the geological storage is a major worry. A major risk is anticipated while fixing a micro-annuli leakage in CO2 storage with smaller apertures. There is a need for a low-viscosity substance that can offer a strong, resilient seal. Sealing these leaks and stopping CO2 migration might be possible with a novel use of nano silica (NS) gel. The suitability of nano silica gel for sealing cement fractures was investigated in this work through laboratory testing. While examining the rheological properties of nano silica gels, it was found that the concentration of nano silica rose as the gel strength and yield point increased. Furthermore, it was discovered that when the concentration of nano silica rises, so do the sealing and leakage pressures, which are the pressures prior to and following CO2 breach, respectively. With a typical 15% nano silica concentration in gel, a sealing pressure gradient of 30 psi/in and a leakage pressure gradient of 3 psi/in at a leaking rate of 0.01 liter/min were found. The pressure performance increases from the starting pressure of 0 psi to the regeneration sealing pressure of 600 psi and the corresponding leakage pressure of 350 psi at 21% nano silica concentration when the test is repeated after a day without injection operation. This study offers a cutting-edge plan for fixing leaks in the geological storage of CO2 and cutting down on idle time while the sequestration process is underway.
Enhancing Reservoir Zonation through Triple Porosity System: A Case Study
Authors: Hashemi Reza , Saberi Fatemeh , Asoude Pourya , Soleimani Bahman
Published: March 2024

The Asmari-Jahrom reservoirs, located in southwest Iran, are recognized as one of the major fractured reservoirs in the world. Understanding the role of fractures in enhancing hydrocarbon flow and permeability is of utmost importance. In this study, petrophysical conventional logs [neutron porosity (NPHI), density (RHOB), sonic (DT), and gamma ray (GR)] and advanced image logs [formation microresistivity imaging (FMI)] were used to investigate the reservoir properties. The novelty of this study lies in the implementation of triple porosity on reservoir quality and identification of flow units in Asmari-Jahrom reservoirs using petrophysical and borehole image logs. By quantifying fracture and vuggy porosity and correlating them with velocity deviation log and fracture parameters [fracture aperture (VAH) and fracture density (VDC)], it was demonstrated that fracture porosity is directly related to VAH. High peaks were observed in fracture parameters, particularly in VAH diagrams where the velocity deviation log was negative and low. Total porosity from density logs was found to match secondary porosity from petrophysical logs, validating FMI results. However, FMI log resolution was higher, enabling clearer identification of fracture porosity peaks. The velocity deviation log indicated that the predominant type of porosity in the reservoir was matrix (primary) porosity. However, fracture and vuggy porosity were also observed in certain zones. Based on indirect evidence such as drilling mud loss, porosity type (matrix, fracture, and vuggy), porosity amount, and oil saturation, 18 zones were identified to determine quality zones with appropriate reservoir quality. Asmari-Jahrum reservoirs were found to possess high storage and flow capacity. The presence of multiple fracture types, especially longitudinal fractures, contributed to the development of secondary porosity and enhanced flow unit quality. Despite their complexity, these fractured carbonate reservoirs were analyzed comprehensively through integrated petrophysical and FMI log interpretation, enabling optimized reservoir performance and facilitating hydrocarbon production.
Allium sativum and Group B Streptococcus: antimicrobial and synergistic activity
Authors: Lima Sônia Maria Rolim Rosa , Gamberini Maria Thereza , Rodrigues Domingos Sávio , Junior Pedro Ismael da Silva , Torres Kátia Andrea de Menezes
Published: March 2024

Objective
The study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the SP80 fraction (obtained from Allium sativum) and its synergism with the antibiotic against strains of GBS.
Methods
The broth microdilution and disk diffusion assays were used to determine the antimicrobial and synergistic activity of Sep-pak 80% (SP80) in combination with ampicillin and penicillin G, respectively.
Results
The results showed that the combination of SP80 and antibiotics respectively showed an additive effect.
Conclusions
The SP80 fraction has antimicrobial activity against GBS, and the association with the antibiotic has an additive effect.
Numerical modeling of interactions between a flow slide and buildings: a case study of Yahuokou landslide
Authors: Zhang Zelin , Liu Jing , Dou Xiaodong , Wang Tao
Published: March 2024

To examine the impact force of the sliding mobility damaging building structures, this study performs inverse modeling of the dynamic response characteristics of building structures under the impact of the Yahuokou landslide. On July 19, 2019, a landslide occurred in Dongshan Town, Zhouqu County, Gansu Province. Nearly 3.92 × 106 m3 of material suddenly lost stability and slid downhill. The sliding body piled up at the foot of the slope and blocked the river. Using the results of a field investigation, the engineering geological background of the Yahuokou landslide is presented in detail. A numerical method is presented to simulate the runout process of the sliding debris and its impact effect on building structures. The smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH)-finite element method (FEM) fluid–structure coupling method is implemented to simulate the landslide dynamic disaster process (the impact behavior for buildings). The sliding debris is simulated using the SPH method, and the building structures are simulated using FEM. The velocity variation trends and moving distances of the sliding body in different zones show different evolution characteristics. The landslide debris flow impacts the building, causing part of the structure to be completely destroyed and buried. Part of the broken wall structure moves forward under the impact of the landslide, with the first part of the affected wall unit moving the farthest; this is characterized by “impact collapse.” Studies of detritus flows are helpful to further analyze the disaster mechanisms of landslides, predict their disaster scope, and provide references for landslides with similar geological conditions in China.
Sexual and Reproductive Health Services Accessibility and its Role in Female Genital Mutilation Reduction: Insights from Handeni District, Tanzania
Authors: Moshi Veronica , Mushi Lawrencia , Anasel Mackfallen
Published: March 2024

Background
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a harmful cultural practice prevalent in various nations, causing severe health consequences and violating human rights, primarily affecting young girls. Handeni District, located in the Tanga Region, has a high FGM prevalence of approximately 70%, especially among the Maasai and Zigua tribes. This study evaluates the contribution of an Alternative rite of passage project aimed at reducing FGM through the promotion of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services (SRHS).
Methods
The study employed a cross-sectional design and utilised a concurrent mixed-method approach. The total sample size for the study included 385 participants, comprising 13 key informants and 372 respondents who completed a questionnaire. Quantitative data were analysed using Stata 14, involving inferential and descriptive statistics to explore associations between variables and become familiar with the data. Qualitative data were analysed with Atlas.ti, incorporating thematic and narrative analysis to identify overarching themes and gain insights into how individuals construct and communicate their experiences through narratives.
Results
The findings revealed a significant association (χ2 = 129.1208, Pr = 0.000) between the two variables. Notably, for every one-unit increase in "Use of SRHS," FGM practice tends to decrease by approximately 0.1613 units.
Conclusion
The study provides and emphasizes the critical role of community empowerment, geographical accessibility, cultural sensitivity, education, and data-driven decision-making in strengthening initiatives for the community-based promotion of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services (SRHS). It underscores the pressing need to address the high prevalence of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and highlights the positive impact of community-based initiatives in reducing FGM practices. The integration of SRHS initiatives is emphasized as a crucial component in the broader strategy to combat FGM. Overall, the study advocates for a comprehensive approach that combines community-focused measures with targeted efforts to enhance SRHS accessibility and awareness, particularly in the context of combating the harmful cultural practice of FGM.
Glyphosate contamination in European rivers not from herbicide application?
Authors: Schwientek Marc , Rügner Hermann , Haderlein Stefan , Schulz Wolfgang , Wimmer Benedikt , Engelbart Lisa , Bieger Sarah , Huhn Carolin
Published: March 2024

The most widely used herbicide glyphosate contaminates surface waters around the globe. Being toxic to aquatic organisms and a possible carcinogenic, mitigation strategies attempt to reduce river contamination, but their impact is not evaluated. Investigating long-term time series, we discovered that – in contrast to the USA – glyphosate river water concentration patterns in Europe contradict a dominant input from herbicide application. Our large meta-analysis clearly shows that for decades, the main source of glyphosate has been municipal wastewater, visible in the close correlation to concentration patterns of, e.g., pharmaceuticals, rather high and constant loads all over the year and failure of mitigation strategies. We suspect that glyphosate enters European rivers as a transformation product of aminopolyphosphonates, which are used in European but not U.S. detergents.