bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Geochemical Forensic as the New Eye in Well Diagnostic
Authors: Zulkipli Siti Najmi , Harun Norhana
Published: October 2019

Loss of barrier assurance and primary containment occurrences whether downhole or at surface have impacted safe well operation and production funnel significantly. Complex well head design, inadequate cement behind casing, threat of shallow gas presence and multiple downhole tubulars leaks are some of the common perils in sustaining the production. Apart from frequent pressure monitoring, risk assessment and mitigation plans to tackle the issues head-on, a new fresh perspective is required to manage well integrity and diagnostic holistically. This paper will highlight application of geochemical method as the new eye to trace source of well integrity issues and emulates forensic engineering to investigate well barrier failures.

Crude and gas compositional analysis from C1 up till C36 carbon chain plays a key role in determining the possible scenarios of leak paths and type of fluid expelled from the wellbore. The best forensic analysis could be produced utilizing multiple samples which represent different stages of well life starting from open-hole exploration drilling, development, production and towards the well abandonment stage. Comparing samples composition at each stage with reference to the baseline while evaluating the existing or newly acquired cement bond and diagnostic logs will help to complete the lingering puzzle.

Results showed that the origin of the fluid samples expelled from the wellbore are successfully traced in a much more economical way with faster turn-around time compared to the conventional diagnostic method. It helps to point out the most likely well integrity elemental failure which has triggered immediate actions to revive the production. Plan to feed in the cash flow has been accelerated 6 months ahead through work-over activities and number of unhealthy well strings has been reduced by 12%. Production deferment is also reduced by half million ringgit equivalent value.

In a nutshell, the case studies provide an eye-opening insight towards predictive and quantitative well integrity solutions to support production. Forward looking the geochemical forensic method can be further tailored for strategic well diagnostic solutions as more data comes in. Time to action could be further reduced with the introduction of advanced on-site analysis technology to boost the restoration efforts.
Surfactant-Polymer Flooding: Single Well Chemical Tracer Test Design and Implementation in a Major Sandstone Kuwaiti Reservoir
Authors: Al Murayri Mohammed T. , Hassan Abrahim A. , Abdul Rahim Abdulla , Decroux Benoit , Negre Andres , Salaun Mathieu
Published: October 2019

This paper discusses the design and implementation of a Single Well Chemical Tracer Test (SWCTT) to evaluate the efficacy of a lab-optimized surfactant-polymer formulation for the Raudhatain Lower Burgan (RALB) reservoir in North Kuwait.

A SWCTT was designed upon completing extensive lab and simulation work as discussed in a previous publication (Al-Murayri et al. 2017 and Al-Murayri et al. 2018). SWCTT design work was aimed at confirming the optimal injection/production sequence determined at core flood scale in terms of minimal volumes, rates and duration. The main uncertainties were assessed using numerous sensitivity scenarios. Afterwards, the SWCTT was implemented in the field and the results were carefully analyzed and compared to previously obtained lab andsimulation results.

The main objective of this SWCTT was to validate the efficacy of polymer and surfactant solutions in terms of residual oil saturation reduction and injectivity. This invovles comparing residual oil saturation estimates before and after chemical flooding while monitoring injection rates and corresponding wellhead pressures. The SWCTT injection sequence included the following steps:Initial water-flooding, followed by tracer injection, soaking and production to measure oil saturation post water flooding.Pre-flush followed by a main-slug (with 5,000 ppm of surfactant and 500 ppm of polymer) and a post-flush (with only polymer).Sea-water push, followed by tracer injection, soaking and production to measure oil saturation post chemical flooding.

Simulation work prior to the execution of the SWCTT test showed encouraging oil desaturation results post chemical flooding within a distance of 10 ft from the well. However, upon analyzing the pilot results, it was realized that there is a gap between the actual SWCTT results and previously obtained lab andsimulation results. This paper sheds light on the design and implementation of the above-mentioned SWCTTwith emphasis on the potential reasons for the realized gap between actual field data and lab/simulation results. The insights from this study are expected to assist in further optimization of surfactant-polymer flooding to economically increase oil recovery from relatively mature reservoirs.
Integrating Seismic Elastic Properties with Geological Data to Explore New Opportunities to Maximize Production of Wara Sand Reservoir in Minagish Field, WK
Authors: Ebaid Adel , Gezeeri Taher , Al-Haddad Mohammed , Halawa Youssif , Matar Saad
Published: October 2019

The Middle cretaceous Wara sandstone reservoir in Minagish Field is considered as highly heterogenetic sandstone which implying lateral facies extensive variations, stacked sand bodies with varying petrophysical properties. Several horizontal wells has been successfully drilled in lower part of Wara 6 sand channel, best thicker clean sand channel with very good oil production rate. Recently some wells have shown depleting of oil and increase water production. To develop such a challenging reservoir to maximize the oil production, a new plan has been developed to explore for new opportunities in Wara reservoir. The objective is to target different good stacked sand bodies in different Wara layers by drilling deviated wells. Some of old depleted Minagsih Oolite reservoir wells have shown good opportunities to sidetrack the wells into good Wara sand layers. This paper presents the integration between geostatistical models, well logs, well test results and different seismic elastic properties maps to identify best subsurface locations for drilling new deviated wells which combine the best quality sand bodies in different Wara layers. A few years ago geostatistical reservoir model along with core data and well log data were utilized to drill successful horizontal wells in W6 sand channels. However due to low resolution seismic data, Wara highly heterogonous lithology and uncertainty in geo-statistical model, it was challenging to continue identify good quality stacked sand bodies in different Wara layers without drilling unwanted silty sand or shale layers. Seismic inversion related elastic impedance data could discriminate between the good quality oil-bearing sand, shaly, and silty sandstones. Several old vertical wells that include good stacked sand bodies in different Wara layers; have been selected to validate the accuracy of elastic impedance maps along Wara layers.
Best Surfactant for EOR Polymer Injectivity
Authors: Gerlach Benjamin , Dugonjic-Bilic Fatima , Neuber Marita , Alkouh Ahmad
Published: October 2019

Synthetic polymers in the emulsion form have been exploited for enhanced oil recovery applications especially in harsh environments for instance offshore or remote onshore locations. Polymer solutions can be prepared on-the-fly using saline make-up water like formation water or sea water. Use of an inverter surfactant accelerates the inversion of the polymer emulsion. For this study two highly efficient inverter surfactants at different price level were selected and their impact on the performance of an acrylamide-based emulsion copolymer was investigated.

Polymer solutions prepared with the inverter surfactants S1 and S2 at different concentrations and conditioned by defined shear treatment were characterized by rheology, filter tests and injectivity behavior in sand packs.

Significant impact of inverter surfactant on rheological properties and especially on injectivity performance is demonstrated. Viscosities of polymer solutions prepared with surfactant S1 are slightly higher (than viscosities with surfactant S2) and decrease with increasing surfactant concentration at constant polymer content. Besides, RRF values as a measure for injectivity behavior strongly decrease at ascending surfactant content. More intense conditioning leads to favorable injectivity of an otherwise plugging polymer solution. At lower concentrations surfactant S1 seems to adversely interact with the polymer and form polymer-surfactant complexes which are retained in the sand pack during injection.

For surfactant S2 viscosities of polymer solutions are independent of surfactant concentration and RRF values are low even at low surfactant concentration. This surfactant ensures good injectivities over a broad range of conditions. Being the economically more favorable surfactant it adds value to polymer flooding projects.
Measles surveillance system Evaluation in Benishangul Gumuz, Mandura woreda, Ethiopia in 2018
Authors: Zena Dereje , Asires kassahun , Genetu Tigist , Asrat Anemaw
Published: October 2019

Objective The main objective of this study is to Evaluate measles surveillance system in Benishangul Gumuz, Mandura woreda, Ethiopia in 2018. Result The weekly reporting rates of the health facilities over the past 52 weeks of 2018 were >80% timeliness and completeness as show below by line graph for health posts. All the weekly surveillance reports were sent to the next level via report format and telephone. Mandura Woreda administration has made major progress in tackling the spread of measles. The overall structural set up of the surveillance system in creation of responsible unit /focal person of Public Health Emergency Management at each district and health facility level is good.
Antibiotic exposure is associated with an increased risk of cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Yuting , He Kaiyin , Peng Xiaojuan , Zhang Chenxing , Zhong Lu , Tang Shaohui
Published: October 2019

Background Several epidemiological studies have assessed the association between the use of antibiotics and cancer risk, but the results were inconsistent. Objective The objective of this study was to perform a meta-analysis to further evaluate possible association between antibiotic exposure and the risk of cancer. Methods We searched PubMed,Embase,Web of Science,and Chinese databases for studies on the association between antibiotic use and cancer without time restrictions. The risk estimates (hazard ratio (HR) or relative risk (RR) or Odds ratio (OR)) with their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Results A total of 23 observational studies with 19 case-control and 4 cohort studies were included in the meta-analysis. Exposure to antibiotics significantly increased the risk of cancer with an OR of 1.20 (95%CI 1.13-1.27, P=0.000). Subgroup meta-analysis by gender showed that the effect of antibiotic use on cancer risk was greater in male (34%) compared with that in female (19%). On the other hand, the risk of cancer increased with an increasing number of antibiotic prescriptions and the increasing cumulative days of antibiotic exposure. Moreover, of the 7 antibiotic types included, the six classes of antibiotics (penicillin, macrolides, quinolones, sulfonamides, tetracycline, cephalosporins) were associated with the increased risk of cancer. Further, of the 16 separate cancers included, exposure to antibiotics increased the risk of eight common cancer types (liver cancer, colorectal cancer, stomach and small intestine cancer, lymphomas, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and renal and bladder). Conclusions Exposure to common antibiotic types may increase the risk of the eight common cancer types in the studies population, especially in male, and the cancer risk increases with increasing antibiotic exposure intensity.
New formula for predicting standard liver and spleen volumes in Chinese adults
Authors: Yang Longbao , Zhao Gang , Tantai Xinxing , Xiao Cailan , Yang Caifeng , Zhang Ying , Dong Lei , Li Hong
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUNDThe liver volume and spleen volum are useful index for cirrhosis patients with esphageal varices. But the calculation of the volume is time-consuming and boring. To solve the problem, we successfully established the liver and spleen volume formula using the body surface area. We compared the liver volume formula with other four formulas, which be proved with highest accuracy and lowest error. Until now, except for the new spleen volume formula in the research, there are few reports about it.AIMTo obtain a reference range of morphological indices, and to establish a formula to accurately predict the standard liver and spleen volumes in Chinese adults.METHODSComputed tomography was used to calculate the estimated total liver volume and spleen volume of 305 Chinese adults without any diseases which could influence the volumes of these two organs. Gender, age, body height, body weight, body surface area and body mass index were determined. Correlation analysis and step-wise multiple linear regression analysis were performed to evaluate the impact of each parameter on the liver and spleen volumes, and then a formula to predict the liver and spleen volumes was established. Finally, the results obtained with the new liver volume formula with existing formulas in a validation group were compared.RESULTSThe average liver and spleen volume values were 1043.18 ± 244.60 cm3 and 175.07 ± 88.15 cm3, respectively. Age, body height, body weight, body surface area and body mass index were significantly correlated with liver and spleen volume. Body surface area showed the strongest correlation with liver volume and spleen volume( p<0.005 and p<0.001). Based on these results, new formulas to calculate the standard liver volume and standard spleen volume were established.CONCLUSIONSCompared the new liver volume formula with the existing formula, it is found that the new liver volume is more accurate. And the accuracy of the spleen volume formula is acceptable. Core tip: To solve the problem of time-consuming and boring in calculating the liver and spleen volume, we successfully established the liver and spleen volume formula can be used in Chinese adult. Though there are some reports about the liver volume, but it is different in spleen volume. The liver volume and spleen volume radio is an useful index to predict the esophageal varices and bleeding risk for cirrhosis patients. Only liver volume formula is not enough, the finding of the spleen volume is very meaningful.
Construction of a High-density Genetic Linkage Map and QTL Analysis of Resistance to Cucumber Mosaic Virus in Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem. Based on Specific Length Amplified Fragment Sequencing
Authors: Lou Lina , Liu Zhe , Liu Xiaohong , Su Xiaojun
Published: October 2019

Background: Luffa cylindrica L. is an economically important vegetable crop that is consumed globally. Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) is an important virus affecting Luffa spp. No specific high-density maps have been constructed owing to a lack of efficient markers. Furthermore, no genes or quantitative trait loci (QTLs) are reportedly responsible for CMV resistance in Luffa spp. The development of next-generation sequencing has enabled discovery of single nucleotide polymorphisms and high-throughput genotyping of large populations. Results: A total of 271.01 Mb pair-end reads were generated. The average sequencing depth was 86.19× in both maternal and parental lines, and 14.57× in each F 2 individual. When filtering low-depth specific locus amplified fragment (SLAF) tags, 100,077 high-quality SLAFs were detected, and 7,405 of them were polymorphic. Finally, 3,701 of the polymorphic markers were selected for genetic map construction, and 13 linkage groups were generated. The map spanned 1,518.56 cM with an average distance of 0.41 cM between adjacent markers. Our results also revealed that CMV resistance was regulated by QTLs. Based on the newly constructed high-density map, two loci located on chromosome 1 (100.072 ~ 100.457 cM) and 4 (42.475 ~ 44.398 cM) were identified to regulate CMV resistance in L. cylindrica . A gag-polypeptide of LTR copia-type retrotransposon was predicted as the candidate gene responsible for CMV resistance in L. cylindrica . Conclusions: A high-density linkage map of L. cylindrica was constructed using SLAF. QTL mapping based on CMV disease phenotypes of F 2 led to the identification of two QTL on chromosome 1 and 4, respectively. Kompetitive allele-specific PCR analysis of 60 F 2 individuals, which gave rise to F 2:3 individuals, was carried out. We found that the QTL on chromosome 1 was associated with CMV resistance. Mapping of CMV QTL combined with the transcriptomic sequence alignment identified a gag-polypeptide of LTR copia-type retrotransposon as the most likely causal gene.
Are The Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte, Platelet-to-lymphocyte And Monocyte-to-lymphocyte Ratios Predictive Factors For The Retinopathy Of Prematurity?
Authors: Uğurlu Adem , İçel Erel , Taşlı Nurdan Gamze , Yılmaz Hayati , Uçak Turgay , Karakurt Yücel
Published: October 2019

Purpose: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the possible relationship between the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte, monocyte-to-lymphocyte and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Method: The data of 348 patients who applied to Erzincan University Ophthalmology Unit for screening the retinopathy of prematurity were analyzed retrospectively. One hundred sixty seven patients who were collected CBC samples within the first 72 hours after delivery and who met the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Infants with a gestational age of ≤35 week were screened for ROP. Pateints were divided into two groups. Group 1 was involved the patients with the diagnosis of ROP and group 2 was involved the normal patients (no ROP). The levels of NLR, PLR and MLR were determined in two groups. Results: Fifty nine patients who were detected ROP are in group 1 and 108 patients who were not seen ROP are in group 2 in the study. The mean gestational age at birth of the patients was 30,4 ± 2,1 [26-34] weeks in group 1 and 33,7 ± 1,7 [27-35] weeks in group 2.( P =0.004) The mean gestational weigth at birth was 1927,2 ± 158,4 [1690-2300] gram in group 1 and 2169,1 ± 283,1 [1750-3100] gram in group 2. ( P <0.001) With the result of logistic regression analysis, gestational age [Odds Ratio(OR): 0.531, 95%CI: 0.388-0.726, P <0.001], NLR [OR:34.849, 95%CI: 2.091-580.779, P :0.013] and PLR [OR: 1.067, 95%CI: 1.034-1.110, P <0.001] were detected the independent risk factors for ROP. Conclusion: Our study revealed that higher NLR and PLR which are evaluated with in first 72h after birth is an independent predictor of ROP.
Prevalence of husband antenatal care attendance and associated factors among husbands whose wives gave birth in the last twelve months in Enebsiesarmider District, Northwest Ethiopia, 2018.
Authors: Abebe Haimanot
Published: October 2019

Background Globally, husband attendance of skilled maternal ANC care remains a challenge to safe motherhood. Even though husband attendance in antenatal care is one of the strategies for enhancing reproductive and sexual health in Ethiopia, the magnitude of husband attendance in ANC is not well investigated in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess husband antenatal care attendance and associated factors among husbands whose wives gave birth in the last twelve months prior to the study in Enebsiesarmider district, Northwest Ethiopia.Methods A Community-based cross-sectional study was employed to assess husband antenatal care attendance and associated factors among husbands whose wives gave birth in the last twelve months in Enebsiesarmider district, Northwest Ethiopia. The study was conducted from February 10-March 10, 2018. A total of 402 participants were involved in the study. Multi stage sampling method was used to recruit study participants. Data were collected using structured interviewer administered questionnaire. Data were entered using epi Data software and exported to SPPS for analysis. Descriptive statistics including mean, proportion were used to describe study variables. Binary and multivariable logistic regression was employed to describe variables in relation to the outcome variable.Result: The prevalence of husband antenatal care attendance was found to be 31.8% [95%CI, 27.4-36.3]. Attending secondary education and above [AOR 1.93, 95%CI, 1.14-3.26], good antenatal care knowledge [AOR 3.30, 95%CI, 2.02-5.39] and hadn’t health system barriers [AOR 2.32, 95%CI, 1.35-4.00] were statistically associated with husband antenatal care attendance.Conclusion Husband ANC attendance was found to be low in the study area. Regional health department shall design behavioral change interventions to reducing health system pitfalls towards ANC in the study area, furthermore, enabling all pregnant women to be booked for ANC and providing invitation letter to their husbands in the subsequent ANC visits seems essential to initiate husband ANC attendance.
Incidence and predictors of diabetic ketoacidosis among children with type 1 diabetes mellitus in Western Amhara Referral Hospitals, Northwestern Ethiopia, 2018: A Retrospective Follow-Up Study
Authors: Zeleke Melkamu Siferih , Kibret Getiye Dejenu , Gebre Tsige , Birhanu Molla Yigzaw , Leshargie Cheru Tesema
Published: October 2019

Background Diabetic ketoacidosis remains a major cause of morbidity, hospitalizations and mortality in children with established type 1 diabetes mellitus. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the incidence and predictors of diabetic ketoacidosis among children with established type 1 diabetes mellitus at Western Amhara region.Method Institution-based retrospective follow-up study was done on 393 children with established type 1 diabetes mellitus registered between September 2013 and September 2017 in Western Amhara referral hospitals. The collected data was entered into Epidata version 4.2 and further analysis were done using STATA version 14.1. Negative Binomial Poisson Regression analysis model was used.Result The cumulative incidence and incidence density rate of diabetic ketoacidosis among children with established type 1 diabetes mellitus in western Amhara referral hospitals was 63.9% and 41.5 per 100 person-years respectively. The incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis increased with age at diagnosis [ARR:2.61, p-value<0.001], siblings only care givers [ARR:1.87, p-value <0.001], fathers only [ARR:1.51, p-value=0.004],omission of insulin (ARR:1.58, p-value <0.001), lower frequency of clinical visits [ARR:2.35, p-value=0.007] and baseline insulin dose >1.2 u/kg/day [ARR:1.39, p-value=0.015], diabetic education (no) [ARR:1.52, p-value=0.011]. But the risk was decreased with baseline insulin type (Lente and regular) (ARR; 0.73, p-value =0.006), base line insulin dose <0.6u/kg/day (ARR: 0.5, p-value=0.034) and community health insurance membership (no membership) [ARR: 0.49, p-value <0.001]. In general, this study revealed that a substantial number of patients had at least one episode of diabetic ketoacidosis and a higher rate of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Overexpression of ThSOS from Tamarix hispida improves salt tolerance
Authors: Liu Zhongyuan , Xie Qingjun , Tang Feifei , Wu Jing , Dong Wenfang , gao caiqiu
Published: October 2019

Highlights

● The functional characterization of ThSOS genes were investigated by bioinformatics analysis and molecular characterization.

● ThSOS genes can respond to abiotic stresses (salt and drought) and hormone treatment (ABA).

● ThSOS3 gene overexpression increased ROS-scavenging capability and decreasing lipid peroxidation in cell membrane.

● ThSOS3 could effectively enhance the tolerance of transgenic T. hispida and Arabidopsis to salt stress.
The second pregnancy has no effect in the incidence of macrosomia: A cross sectional survey in two western Chinese regions
Authors: Luo Li , Wang Lianlian , Zeng Huan , Peng Feng , Shi Zumin , Xu Xianglong , Saffery Richard , Han Ting-Li , Xie Yaojie , Zhao Yong
Published: October 2019

After the implementation of the universal two-child policy in 2015 in China, the increase in parity has led to an increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes. The impact of parity on the incidence of fetal macrosomia has not been fully confirmed in China.This study aimed to explore the differences in the incidence of fetal macrosomia between first and second pregnancies in Western China. A total of 1598 pregnant women from three hospitals were investigated by means of a cross-sectional study from August 2017 to January 2018. Participants were recruited by a convenience sampling method and divided into first and second pregnancy groups. These groups included 1094 primiparas and 504 women giving birth to their second child. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to discuss the differences in the incidence of fetal macrosomia in first and second pregnancies. No significant difference was found in the incidence of macrosomia in the first pregnancy group (7.2%) and the second pregnancy group (7.1%). In the second-time pregnant mothers, no significant association was found between the macrosomia of the second child (5.5%) and that of the first child (4.7%). In conclusion: the incidence of macrosomia in Western China is not affected by second childbirth, that is not affected by low parity. History of first child macrosomia was not a predictor of second child macrosomia.
Self-appraisal of caregiving in family caregivers of older adults with dementia in Iran: a content analysis study
Authors: Farhadi Akram , Mohammadi Farahnaz , Foroughan Mahshid , Sadeghmoghadam Leila , Nazari Shima , Mortazavi Seyede Salehe
Published: October 2019

Background The concept of caring appraisal, which includes positive and negative aspects of care, has been considered as one of the key concepts in caregivers' studies. The aim of the present study was to investigate the self-appraisal concept of caring from the viewpoint of family caregivers in the elderly with dementia in Iran.Methods This study was based on qualitative analysis. Data were collected through in-depth and semi-structured interviews. Twelve participants (family caregivers of elderly people with dementia) were interviewed between January and September 2016. They were selected from visitors to the Alzheimer's Association of Iran and Yadman Memorial Clinic (Tehran- Iran). The interviews were recorded and transcribed. The transcribed texts were analyzed using inductive qualitative content analysis recommended by Graneheim and Lundman (2004).Results The study explored two main categories include "perceived burden", "Losses and Threats," "satisfaction with care", "Personal growth", "caregiving gains", "philosophy of care" and 22 subcategories.Conclusion According to the results of this study, the family caregivers’ appraisal of their care not only does not have negative aspects but also covers a large number of positive aspects, in which the cultural and social conditions prevailing in the Iranian society play a significant role in the formation of these positive aspects.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: ANALYSIS OF THEORIES AND MODELS
Authors: Brin Pavlo , Nehme Mohamad Nassif
Published: October 2019

Various definitions, forms, and theories related to Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) are presented in this article. Nowadays most corporations follow different methodologies to implement CSR approach. But in most cases corporation follow CSR methodology that reflects only its shareholders’ interest neglecting its community interest. Critical analysis and comparison for the main CSR theories are presented also, followed by a conclusion about a comprehensive form of CSR that targets both shareholders and community interest.
Three of the main CSR theories and models have been represented and analyzed in this article: The Carroll Theory, The Triple Bottom Line Theory, and The Stakeholder Theories. Since any business corporation has to adopt one of these theories, this study reveals the strength and challenges of every theory. There is no doubt that every theory has been well analyzed by its founder or scholar, but an advanced understanding for every theory will make it possible for a corporation’s managers and decision makers to implement long term social and environmental strategies with more accurate achievements.
This article is divided into four main sections, the first section presents Carroll’s model for CSR, followed by the second, which is about the Triple Bottom Line theory for CSR, and the third represents the Stakeholder theory. The fourth section analyzes three CSR theories and sheds light on the core responsibility of every theory. Comprehensive analysis for the three recognized CSR models was represented in a table to help readers to locate and clarify systemic differences and common features between the three theories.
The last section of the article reveals three main outcomes, the first outcome represents a recommendation for the implementation process of adopting any of the three theories, and which is divided into an internal and external level. The second outcome reveals the importance of addressing a specialized committee for CSR by a company, followed by the third outcome that discusses some of the implications of this analysis for future CSR research and studies.
Influence of Contrasting Soil Moisture Conditions on Carbon Dioxide and Nitrous Oxide Emissions from Terminated Green Manures
Authors: Singh Hardeep , Kandel Tanka P. , Gowda Prasanna H. , Somenahally Anil , Northup Brian K. , Kakani Vijaya G.
Published: October 2019

Core Ideas

Impacts of soil moisture at incorporation of two legumes on the CO2 and N2O emissions were studied.

Availability of soil moisture led to rapid mineralization of biomass C and N.

Legume incorporation based on short‐term rainfall forecast did not avoid large N2O emissions.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from decomposing legume green manures largely depend on soil moisture. A potential management to mitigate N2O emissions could be to incorporate legumes during dry periods based on the short‐term rainfall forecast. The present mesocosm study was designed to examine the impact of soil moisture due to different timing of rainfall after incorporation of legume cover crops on CO2 and N2O emissions. Two timings of rainfall were simulated as early and late rainfall that received 80 mm deionized water at or 1 wk after incorporation of the legumes. An additional 20 mm water was added after 2 wk of the first simulated rainfalls. Gas fluxes of CO2 and N2O were measured using closed chamber method for 28 d incubation assay. Soil concentrations of NH4+ and NO3–, concentrations of N in undecomposed biomass, and abundances of denitrifier bacterial genes (nirK, nirS, and nosZ) and arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF) were determined at weekly intervals. Carbon dioxide emissions increased immediately after the first simulated rainfall events and peaked around Day 2 to 3, whereas N2O emissions reached peak level around Day 8 to 10 from both legume treatments. After the first rainfall simulations, soil NH4+ and NO3– concentrations increased, whereas biomass N concentrations decreased rapidly. Abundance of nirK, nosZ, and AMF was positively correlated (P < 0.05) to N2O emissions. Dynamics and magnitude of emissions after first rainfall events remained similar irrespective of the timing of simulated rainfall. In conclusion, our results indicated that soil incorporation of legumes based on a short‐term rainfall forecast may not be an effective tool to avoid large N2O emissions.
First experience of using valsartan/sacubitril in women with heart failure and breast cancer receiving anthracycline-based adjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Kanorskiy S. G. , Pavlovets V. P.
Published: October 2019

Objective. Comparison of the cardioprotective efficacy of valsartan/sacubitril and candesartan in women with heart failure (HF) and an initially reduced left ventricular ejection fraction receiving breast cancer chemotherapy.

Material and methods. A prospective study included 112 women aged 53 to 65 years with systolic heart failure, who received surgical treatment for breast cancer followed by adjuvant polychemotherapy according to the FAC scheme (fluorouracil + doxorubicin + cyclophosphamide) - 6 cycles with intervals between 21 days of administration. After randomization, HF therapy with nebivolol, eplerenone, and valsartan/sacubitril (n = 55) or candesartan (n = 57) was performed. A general clinical laboratory study, electrocardiography, daily Holter monitoring of an electrocardiogram, echocardiography, a 6-minute walk test, quality of life assessment were performed initially and repeatedly after 1, 3, and 6 chemotherapy courses.

Results. Both groups showed a tendency to troponin I level increase and a significant decrease in the concentration of N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide. Only the valsartan/sacubitril group showed a statistically significant increase in the 6-minute walk distance, suppression of ventricular cardiac arrhythmias, improved indicators of systolic function of the left ventricle and quality of life when the Minnesota questionnaire was used.

Conclusion. The first randomized trial of valsartan/sacubitril showed superiority compared to candesartan in the treatment of heart failure in women with breast cancer, who received adjuvant chemotherapy, which included anthracycline antibiotic, doxorubicin.
Chronic heart failure: actual aspects of treatment in real clinical practice
Authors: Trukhan D. I. , Davydov E. L.
Published: October 2019

An urgent public health problem is the optimization of drug therapy in patients with chronic heart failure.

A large number of works devoted to the treatment of chronic heart failure form the point of view that about the treatment of chronic heart failure «all is well known for a long time.» However, in real clinical practice, especially at the stage of primary health care, for various reasons, possible pitfalls, reefs and shallows are not taken into account, the underestimation of which can introduce certain difficulties and cause the treatment of patients with chronic heart failure to be ineffective.

The review article examined a number of important aspects of the treatment of chronic heart failure, which, for various reasons, are underestimated in the supervision of patients. First of all, this refers to antagonists of mineralocorticoid receptors, in particular to spironolactone, and an inhibitor of If - channels of the sinus node ivabradine.

The results of foreign and Russian studies, modern recommendations for the supervision of patients with chronic heart failure, indicate that the presence of spironolactone and ivabradine in the arsenal of a practical doctor allows optimizing drug therapy in patients with chronic heart failure and increasing its effectiveness.
Hyperphosphatemia in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Martynov S. A. , Shamkhalova M. Sh.
Published: October 2019

Hyperphosphatemia in renal pathology is a key factor for developing mineral and bone disorders. It can develop even in the early stages of renal function decline and predict the formation of vascular calcification and an increased risk for developing cardiovascular complications in patients with chronic kidney disease, especially in those, who receive program hemodialysis. The use of calcium-free phosphate-binding agents that are not associated with the risk for developing hypercalcemia can slow the development of vascular calcification, reduce the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease.
Obstetric and Perinatal Outcomes in Women ≥40 Years of Age: A Retrospective Study About 421 Cases in Mahdia
Authors: Kraiem Soumaya , Souilem Leila , Toumi Dhekra , Bouchahda Haifa
Published: October 2019

OBJECTIVES: All this study is aimed to evaluate obstetrical and neonatal outcomes among women age 40 years and older.STUDY DESIGN: Among 9962 women who delivered in Mahdia’s hospital between January 2015 and December 2016, 421 women (4.22%) were 40 years old or older at the time of delivery. Our retrospective study included 421 pregnant women aged more than 40 years and 421 controls aged 18-39, stratified to parity. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s χ22 test.RESULTS: The mean age of the case group was 41.32 years and that for the control group was 31.25 years. Preeclampsia and diabetes were the most common pathologies (p=0.01), the mode of delivery was marked by a high rate of cesarean section. The rate of instrumental extractions was not influenced by age. The rate of neonatal admission and 10-minute Apgar Scores<7 were significantly higher in the older group (p<0.05). The rate of abruption placenta, placenta previa, postpartum hemorrhage, and stillbirth were increased in mothers over 40 years but there was no difference statically. CONCLUSION: Based on findings, maternal age over 40 years is associated with a high rate of obstetrical, medical complications and cesarean section deliveries. Better pregnancy monitoring helps to improve this risky situation.
Water supply control system for smarter electricity power usage adopting demand-response scheme
Authors: Tadokoro H. , Koibuchi H. , Takahashi S. , Kakudou S. , Takata Y. , Moriya D. , Sasakawa M.
Published: October 2019

Demand-response is a scheme in which electricity suppliers and consumers collaborate for smarter usage of electricity aiming to mitigate the gap between supply and demand. It makes electricity consumers receive incentives through curtailing or increasing power demand during a certain period subject to request from the power infrastructure. Water utilities, as heavy electricity consumers, could participate in the scheme through shifting power demand by modifying pump operation schedule, utilizing reservoirs' buffering stock capability. We developed a conveyance/transmission pump scheduling algorithm to be applied in the scheme that requires a quick modification of pumping schedule to respond to a request. In addition, we made test bedding through a simulation approach utilizing actual data from Osaka Water Supply Authority to show the scheme's potential for waterworks and the effectiveness of the algorithm.
Risk assessment of floodwater resources utilization in water transfer projects based on an improved cloud model
Authors: Huang Xianfeng , Li Wanyu , Chen Yingqin , Fang Guohua , Yan Wei
Published: October 2019

The utilization of floodwater resources will produce benefits, but it will also pose risks; therefore, it is necessary to strengthen knowledge regarding risk assessment to minimize negative effects. In the present study, the risk factors for the utilization of floodwater resources in water diversion projects were identified, the index system was constructed, and the fuzziness and randomness of the risk were considered. Assessment was performed with respect to the following three projects: water storage, water conveyance, and water pumping. The specific methods to improve the cloud model are as follows: analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is used to calculate subjective weights, entropy weight method and projection pursuit method are used to calculate objective weights, X-conditional cloud is used to calculate index membership degree, and finally combination weight and membership degree are combined to obtain the risk level of flood resource utilization. The above methodology was applied to the risk assessment of floodwater resources utilization in the Jiangsu Province of the East Route of the South-to-North Water Transfer Project. The risk of floodwater resources utilization in high-flow, normal-flow, and low-flow years was evaluated, and the validity and applicability of the assessment method were verified.
Camões no anti-humanismo
Authors: Santana Gomes Rafael
Published: October 2019

Este artigo propõe uma leitura da poesia camoniana a partir da perspectiva do Humanismo e da defesa dos direitos humanos. De inegável dicção filosófica, o discurso épico de Camões apresenta-se como um gesto de resistência contra a reificação dos valores humanitários propalados no seu tempo.
Os mundos morais possíveis de Mackie e MacIntyre
Authors: R. da S. Ribeiro Hippolyto
Published: October 2019

Analisamos nesse artigo as principais características filosóficas do ceticismo moral de Mackie e do contextualismo moral de MacIntyre. Do ponto-de-vista ontológico. Reivindicamos que Mackie e MacIntyre adotam ontologias diferentes. Mackie adota uma ontologia fisicalista ou materialista e MacIntyre uma ontologia social e cultural. Por essa razão, Mackie conclui que valores morais não são objetivos, enquanto MacIntyre conclui, ao contrário, que valores morais são objetivos. Do ponto-de-vista linguístico. Reivindicamos que a teoria do ‘erro’ de Mackie postula que o uso da linguagem moral ocidental é baseado numa crença (falsa) na objetividade dos valores morais, e a teoria do desacordo moral contemporâneo de MacIntyre propõe, ao contrário, que o uso da linguagem moral na sociedade pós-moderna é baseado numa crença (falsa) na subjetividade dos valores morais.
Safatle, Vladimir. Dar corpo ao impossível: o sentido da dialética a partir de Theodor Adorno. Autêntica, 2019.
Authors: de Oliveira Fleck Amaro
Published: October 2019

Na presente resenha exponho as linhas gerais da argumentação de Safatle em seu livro Dar corpo ao impossível e apresento três observações críticas: sobre a natureza da dialética negativa, sobre o posicionamento político de Theodor Adorno e sobre o momento histórico presente.
Airborne Carcinogenic Trace Elements Distribution Associated with Long Term Exposure in Makkah Population
Authors: Adly Heba M. , Saleh Saleh A. K. , Saati Abdulla A. , Fatani Samir H.
Published: October 2019

Background:

More than 4 million international pilgrims visit Makkah each year during the Hajj and Umrah seasons. Since trace elements are natural ingredients that endure general biogeochemical cycling, conversion functions between environmental loadings, mass levels, and exposed receptors.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the distribution of carcinogenic trace element levels related to long term exposure.

Methods:

Particulate Matter (PM10) sampling was conducted at six locations (Al-Haram, Arafat, Muzdalifah, Aziziyah, Al Nuzhah, and Al Awali). On-site measurement parameters included ambient temperature, wind speed, and direction over 37 weeks. Samples were investigated for Cd, Cr, As, Be, and Ni levels with inductive coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Quality assurance measures were achieved separately by analyzing a control sample to certify reliability, reproducibility, and linearity for each analysis.

Results:

Average particulate matter concentration for a one-year period presented significant variability, which exceeded the WHO guidelines for average exposure (25.0 µgm-3). PM10 average concentrations during round-1 (Spring), round-2 (Summer), round-3 (Autumn) and round-4 (Winter) were 120.1 ± 52.2 µgm-3, 223.4 ± 30.4 µgm-3, 77.6 ± 36.72, and 89 ± 62.7 µgm-3, respectively. The concentrations of Cd, Cr, As, Be, and Ni were found to be 0.098, 0.008, 0.26, 0.03, and 0.012 µgm-3, respectively.

Conclusion:

PM10 concentration was highly correlated (p-value <0.005) with Cd, Cr, As, Be, and Ni; thereby indicating the influence of manufacturing discharges and pollutants transported over long-distances. Higher ambient air temperatures may cause atmospheric instability in low air dispersion around Makkah. This highlights the importance of continuous air monitoring and calculation of dose exposure levels of both PM10 and trace elements.
Monitoring of Energy Metabolism by Organic Acid Profiling Analysis in Plasma of Type 2 Diabetic Mice
Authors: Lee Hae-In , Seo Chan , Paik Man-Jeong , Lee Mi-Kyung
Published: October 2019

Objective::

This study was conducted to investigate energy metabolism based on
changes in organic acids in diabetes and to establish a correlation between metabolites or
bone microarchitecture and the glucose index in type 2 diabetic mice.

Method::

Seven-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into a non-diabetic
group and a diabetic group. The diabetic group was fed a high-fat diet (HFD) that induced
insulin resistance for 5 weeks. Afterwards, diabetes was induced by a single streptozotocin
injection. Both the groups were fed a normal diet and HFD diet for 9 weeks.

Results::

The fasting blood glucose level glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) significantly increased
in diabetic mice. Bone-alkaline phosphatase activity decreased in the diabetic group.
Diabetes increased the levels of ketone bodies, including 3-hydroxybutyric, acetoacetic and
butyric acid, whereas it decreased Krebs cycle components, including succinic acid and malic
acid, as well as levels of glycolytic products, including lactic acid. Diabetes also induced
a shortage of trabecular bone mineral density (BMD) by the regulation of trabecular morphometric
parameters in the femur and tibia. Correlation analysis indicated that BMD, Krebs
cycle components and lactic acid levels were negatively correlated with HbA1c, whereas ketone
bodies were positively correlated with HbA1c.

Conclusion: :

This research suggested that uncontrolled HbA1c can affect bone loss, production
of ketone bodies and utilization of glucose metabolites for energy production in type 2
diabetes.
Story-Building for Revolution: Post-Marxist and Neo-Nationalist Perspectives on the Yellow Vests Movement
Authors: Sousa Rodrigo Almeida
Published: October 2019

On 17 November 2018, hundreds of thousands of French joined in protest against the ecological tax rise on hydrocarbons announced by Emmanuel Macron. The Yellow Vests phenomenon had been born. Since then, it has been active for several months and there seems to be no end in sight. As the movement began to get organized, it created websites and pages on social media, producing a challenging storytelling based on more than 40 demands and 25 proposals for the crisis. Thus it gave voice to the middle and middle-lower classes, which are deeply dissatisfied with their present socioeconomic conditions. Naturally, this narrative appealed to the extremist parties, from Mélenchon’s radical left to Marine Le Pen’s neo-nationalist right, as they immediately declared their support for the cause. Shortly afterwards, it was time for the intellectuals to manifest their views. On one hand, post-Marxists such as Slavoj Žižek and Antonio Negri wrote their articles on the subject. On the other, Russian nationalists, from leftist Boris Kagarlitsky to traditionalist Aleksandr Dugin, did not hide their enthusiasm about the movement either. For, in fact, all these intellectuals have something in common: they all are story-building for revolution.
Resumo

A 17 Novembro 2018, centenas de milhares de franceses aderiram ao protesto contra a subida da taxa ecológica sobre os hidrocarbonetos anunciada por Emmanuel Macron. Nascia, assim, o fenómeno dos coletes amarelos, o qual tem perdurado ao longo de vários meses e parece não ter fim à vista. À medida que o movimento se foi organizando, criou um site e páginas em redes sociais, produzindo um «storytelling» de carácter reivindicativo com base em mais de 40 exigências e 25 propostas para a crise; o qual dava voz a um clima de profunda insatisfação quanto à situação socioeconómica em que vivem as classes média e média-baixa. Claro está que esta narrativa agradou aos partidos extremistas, desde a esquerda radical de Mélenchon à direita nacionalista de Marine Le Pen, que imediatamente declararam o seu apoio à causa. Pouco depois, era a vez dos intelectuais se manifestarem. De um lado, destacaram-se os artigos dos pós-marxistas Slavoj Žižek e Antonio Negri. Do outro, os nacionalistas russos, desde o esquerdista Boris Kagarlitsky ao tradicionalista Aleksandr Dugin, tampouco esconderam o seu entusiasmo quanto ao movimento. Com efeito, todos estes intelectuais têm algo em comum: a produção de um «story building» de cariz revolucionário.