bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pressure Transient Analysis of Wells in Shale Oil Reservoirs with Complex Hydraulic Fracture Networks Based on Numerical Approach
Authors: Chen Zhiming , Liu Hui , Liao Xinwei , Zhao Xiaoliang , Tang Xuefeng , Meng Meiling
Published: October 2019

Due to the complexity of shale reservoir geology, hydraulic and micro-fractures can be coupled into an extremely complex symmetrical or asymmetrical fracture network around vertically fractured wells (VFW) after fracturing. The important and useful work is to analyze the transient pressure response of the VFW, to more accurately predict the productivity of VFW. In this paper, a numerical method to accurately simulate the complex fracture network geometry and analyze the transient pressure responses of the VFW, due to the complexity of the fracture network geometry. The results show a longer fracture length on one side causes a smaller pressure depletion, a shorter bilinear flow, and a deeper and longer the degree of "dip". The more fractures on one side can lead to a greater degree of "dip" and a smaller pressure depletion. With the fracture conductivity on the right side increases, while that in other side remains constant value, it results in a shorter bilinear flow, a deeper and longer the degree of "dip", a smaller pressure depletion, and a weaker bi-radial flow (BRF). In addition, it is found that flow regimes affected by magnitude of fracture networks are mainly bi-linear flow (BLF), "dip" and BRF. The pressure behaviors between asymmetrical fracture networks and symmetrical fracture networks are mainly in the periods of BLF, "dip", and BRF. Through analyzing the transient pressure responses of the VFW, the parameters of the complex fracture network can be well predicted, so that the productivity of the VFW can be estimated more accurately.
Pursuing Improved Flowback Recovery after Hydraulic Fracturing
Authors: Cai Yuzhe , Dahi Taleghani Arash
Published: October 2019

Low injected fracturing fluid recovery has been an issue during flowback period that is highly impacted by the fracture closure behavior. Although existing flowback models consider fracture closure volumetrically, they do not represent the true situation of non-uniform fracture closure. In this paper, we proposed a coupled geomechanics and fluid flow model for early-time flowback in shale oil reservoirs. The fluid flow model is coupled with an elastic fracture closure model through finite element methods. In this study, three stages are modeled: fracture propagation, well shut-in and flowback. Cohesive Zone Method (CZM) has been used for modeling fracture propagation. The presented model distinguished the propped part from the unpropped part of the fracture. At the beginning of flowback, the proppants may not be completely compacted in early shut-in time. Thus, permeability evolution during closure is tracked using a smooth permeability transition function. The numerical results have shown that fracture closure during the flowback period is often not uniform. While the uniform fracture closure leads to maximum fracturing fluid recovery, an aggressive pressure drawdown strategy may damage fracture connectivity to the wellbore. An integrated flowback model enables modelling nonuniform fracture closure in a complex fracture network. This study highlights that by choke/pressure drawdown management, operators can influence fluid recovery and even maintain high fracture conductivity. Furthermore, the methodology presented in the paper can also be used for inverse analysis on early flowback data.
Combination of Simplified Local Density Theory and Molecular Dynamics Simulation to Study the Local Density Distribution of Hydrocarbon Gas in Shale Gas Reservoir
Authors: Chang Qiuhao , Huang Liangliang , Wu Xingru
Published: October 2019

The density distribution of hydrocarbon molecules in Nano-pore media affects the storage of gas, particular for shale reservoir which contains rich organic matters. The density distribution can reveal the adsorption effect which is related to the gas storage mechanism. In literature, researchers proposed using local density theory such as Lennard Jones Potential in lieu of molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and laboratory measurement because of its high computation performance. Core sample study shows that many pores in organic matter have cylindrical shape, but the curvature effect on gas storage has not been studied. Therefore, the thorough validation of this approximation needs to be done for different pore geometries, particularly for a multiple components system. In this study, we propose to study the shale gas storage under the reservoir conditions by a thorough comparison between the Lennard Jones Potential with Peng-Robinson EoS (LJ-PREOS) and equilibrium molecular dynamics simulation for cylindrical pores. We first compare the LJ-PREOS for a single component, and then extend the study to a binary system. The purpose of this comparison to quantify the boundaries under which the LJ-PREOS can be used as a proxy to study the gas storage and adsorption effect in shale formation. After Comparing the results from equilibrium MD simulation with new SLD-PR model, for the single component system, the density on the both sides (close to the pore wall) is much higher than the density on the center, which means the cylindrical wall has a significant adsorption effect on methane molecule. For the binary component system, the mixture density distribution is similar to the single component system, which is higher density closer to the wall and lower density on the center. Furthermore, from the MD simulation results, for the density distribution of each single component in binary system, it is clearly show that both components are still under adsorption effect from the wall, but the butane molecule largely concentrate close to the edge of pore, which means the cylindrical wall has larger impact on butane molecule than methane molecule. With the validated model, we developed a framework to estimate the gas storage capacity of the organic matters in shale formation with different pore size distributions (PSD). Neglecting PSD may lead to 30% under estimation of gas storage in shale gas formation.

To our knowledge, this is first validation of cylindrical pore adsorption for a multiple components system using MD modeling even though many researchers have used this hypothesis in their studies. We also proposed a new framework of estimating gas storage capacity in shale formation without distinguishing the adsorption and free gases in the organic pores with the effect of pore size distribution.
Application of Descriptive Data Analytics: How to Properly Select the Best Ranges of Viscosity and Flow Rate for Optimal Hole Cleaning?
Authors: Alkinani Husam H. , Al-Hameedi Abo Taleb , Dunn-Norman Shari , Al-Alwani Mustafa A. , Lian David , Al-Bazzaz Waleed H.
Published: October 2019

It is not easy to obtain an optimal hole cleaning for the drilling operation because of the complicated relationship between the drilling parameters influencing hole cleaning. The two viscosity components (e.g. plastic viscosity (PV) and yield point (YP)) and the flow rate (Q) are essential parameters for effective hole cleaning. Thus, understanding the relationship between those parameters will contribute to efficient hole cleaning. The aim of this paper is to explore those relationships to provide optimal hole cleaning.

Descriptive data analytics was conducted for data of more than 2000 wells drilled in Southern Iraq. The data were first cleansed and outliers were removed using visual inspection and box plots. The Pearson correlation (PC), a widely used method to measure the linear relationship between two parameters, was utilized to access the relationships between PV and Q, YP and Q, and YP/PV and Q. Moreover, a 10% sensitivity analysis was escorted to quantify and comprehend those relationships.

The PCs were calculated to be 0.5, 0.076, and 0.22 for the relationships between YP, PV, and YP/PV with Q, respectively. YP had the highest direct relationship with Q, while PV had the lowest. When the YP increases, a sufficient Q has to be provided to initiate the flow and maintain the mud cycle. In addition, to prevent large solid particles from settling due to the slip velocity, sufficient annular and particle velocities have to be achieved. After initiating the flow, an increase in flow rate to overcome resistance due to PV will not be significant. Therefore, YP has more effect on Q than PV. To maximize hole cleaning, thickening ratio (YP/PV) should be increased. This requires an increase in flow rate, which can be quantified by using the sensitivity analysis provided to achieve the required Q for any increase in YP/PV.
Rationalizing the Concept of Net-to-Gross With Respect to Reservoir Heterogeneity and Flow Behavior Utilizing Machine Learning Analyses
Authors: Gorell Sheldon , Andrews Justin , Browning Jim
Published: October 2019

Though seemingly straightforward, the concept of "net-to-gross" (NTG) is often a source of confusion. Its proper use is still being debated in some portions of the oil and gas industry. NTG is a method to account for non-reservoir quality rock when calculating oil volumes within a reservoir. This is normally accomplished by applying cutoffs to calculated quantities, such as porosity, which then get excluded from the volumetric calculation. To the extent there have been recent discussions of this, the focus has been primarily on how to determine appropriate cutoffs. There has been very little mention of the implications of using NTG in flow equations within a reservoir simulator. The paper discusses the derivation and implied assumptions for the simulator NTG formulation and possible errors and proposes modifications to account for inconsistencies.

Resolving the NTG flow equations can be viewed as an upscaling problem, subject to implied assumptions about reservoir continuity. Many fine-scale reservoir simulations were run to test this and to calibrate the NTG equations. The underlying attributes were sampled from a bimodal distribution, which represent pay and non-pay. The results show the effects of NTG ratio, values of fine-scale attributes and spatial correlation on steady state, single phase effective permeability and immiscible flow displacements. They demonstrate errors in effective horizontal and vertical permeability when using NTG within a simulator. These errors cause potentially significant differences in production responses between underlying detailed fine-scale models and coarser models. The results demonstrate a possible need for corrections to the simulator net-to-gross formulations due to underlying implied assumptions and inconsistencies. Some possible modifications are also presented. Both standard and machine learning techniques were used to analyze the results.
KIPIC Readiness Framework for Industry 4.0
Authors: AlFedaghi Hadla S.
Published: October 2019

Industry 4.0 is also referred to as ‘the fourth industrial revolution’, reinforced by the rapid growth and development of the Internet of Things (IoT). Industry 4.0 represents the real-time digital integration of suppliers, products, equipment and customers, which brings many benefits including improved efficiency, lower costs, higher revenues and increased innovation [1]. Therefore, in this paper Kuwait Integrated Petroleum Industries Company (KIPIC) deploys a readiness multilayered framework and benefit metrics models to build the foundation and roadmap for successful progress towards Industry 4.0. KIPIC, with the privilege of being a greenfield company, intends to establish foundations for digitalisation and an integrated layer for all of its facilities, including Al-Zour refinery, petrochemical factory and liquefied natural gas. In this paper, a mixed of methodologies were used, including analysis of the literature, expertise and interviews with KIPIC CEO, DCEO(s), Managers and Team Leaders.
Blockchain-Based Digital Identity Management Scheme for Field Connected IoT Devices
Authors: AlQallaf Abdulaziz
Published: October 2019

We propose a design for securing machine-to-machine (M2M) communications for field connected IoT devices by using the blockchain technology for digital identity management. Our approach considers a fundamental issue with public key cryptography, which is certificate issuance, revocation, and distribution. The blockchain design eliminates the need for a single authority for identity management and provides security by design for digital identity management and distribution.
Examining the benefits and harms of Alzheimer’s disease screening for family members of older adults: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Fowler Nicole , Head Katherine J. , Perkins Anthony J. , Gao Sujuan , Callahan Christopher M. , Bakas Tamilyn , Suarez Shelley D. , Boustani Malaz A.
Published: October 2019

Background: Multiple national expert panels have identified early detection of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) as a national priority. However, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) does not currently support screening for ADRD in primary care given that the risks and benefits are unknown. The USPSTF stresses the need for research examining the impact of ADRD screening on family caregiver outcomes.
Methods: The Caregiver Outcomes of Alzheimer’s Disease Screening (COADS) is a randomized controlled trial that will examine the potential benefits or harms of ADRD screening on family caregivers. It will also compare the effectiveness of two strategies for diagnostic evaluation and management after ADRD screening. COADS will enroll 1,800 dyads, who will be randomized into three groups (n=600/group): Screening Only group will receive ADRD screening at baseline and disclosure of the screening results, with positive screen participants receiving a list of local resources for diagnostic follow-up; Screening Plus, ADRD screening at baseline coupled with disclosure of the screening results, with positive screen participants referred to a dementia collaborative care program for diagnostic evaluation and potential care; and Control, no screening. The COADS trial will measure the family member quality of life (primary outcome) and family member mood, anxiety, preparedness, and self-efficacy (secondary outcomes) at baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Additionally, the trial will examine the congruence of depressive and anxiety symptoms between older adults and family members at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months and compare the effectiveness of two strategies for diagnostic evaluation and management after ADRD screening between the two groups randomized to screening (Screening Only versus Screening Plus).
Discussion: We hypothesize that caregivers in the screening arms will express higher levels of health-related quality of life, lower depressive and anxiety symptoms, and better preparation for caregiving with higher self-efficacy at 24 months. Results from this study will directly inform the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease, the USPSTF and other organizations regarding ADRD screening and early detection policies.
A MYB-related Transcription Factor from Sheepgrass, LcMYB2, Promotes Seed Germination and Root Growth under Drought Stress
Authors: Zhao Pincang , Hou Shenglin , guo xiufang , Jia Junting , Yang Weiguang , Liu Zhujiang , Chen Shuangyan , Li Xiaoxia , Qi Dongmei , Liu Gongshe , Cheng Liqin
Published: October 2019

Background Drought is one of the most serious factors limiting plant growth and production. Sheepgrass can adapt well to various adverse conditions, including drought. However, during germination, sheepgrass young seedlings are sensitive to these adverse conditions. Therefore, the adaptability of seedlings is very important for plant survival, especially in plants that inhabit grasslands or the construction of artificial grassland. Results In this study, we found a sheepgrass MYB-related transcription factor, LcMYB2 that is up-regulated by drought stress and returns to a basal level after rewatering. The expression of LcMYB2 was mainly induced by osmotic stress and was localized to the nucleus. Furthermore, we demonstrate that LcMYB2 promoted seed germination and root growth under drought and ABA treatments. Additionally, we confirmed that LcMYB2 can regulate LcDREB2 expression in sheepgrass by binding to its promoter, and it activates the expression of the osmotic stress marker genes AtDREB2A, AtLEA14 and AtP5CS1 by directly binding to their promoters in transgenic Arabidopsis. Conclusions Based on these results, we propose that LcMYB2 improves plant drought stress tolerance by increasing the accumulation of osmoprotectants and promoting root growth. Therefore, LcMYB2 plays pivotal roles in plant responses to drought stress and is an important candidate for genetic manipulation to create drought-resistant crops, especially during seed germination.
Ruxolitinib shows activity against Hodgkin lymphoma but not primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Kim Seok Jin , Yoon Dok Hyun , Kang Hye Jin , Hong Jung Yong , Lee Ho Sup , Oh Sung Yong , Shin Ho-Jin , Kong Jee Hyun , Yi Jun Ho , Sakamoto Kana , Ko Young Hyeh , Huh Jooryung , Lee Seung-Sook , Takeuchi Kengo , Shin Dong-Yeop , Suh Cheolwon , Kim Won Seog
Published: October 2019

Background The upregulated expression of the JAK/STAT pathway promotes tumor growth in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL). Based on the hypothesis that JAK2 is a therapeutic target, we performed a prospective pilot study using ruxolitinib. Methods Relapsed or refractory patients with HL or PMBCL were eligible for this study, and JAK2 amplification was assessed by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Ruxolitinib was administered orally at a dose of 20 mg twice daily for a 28-day cycle. Treatment was continued for up to 16 cycles or until progressive disease or intolerability. The primary objective was to assess the overall disease control rate comprising complete response (CR), partial response (PR), or stable disease (SD). Results We analyzed 13 HL patients and six PMBCL patients. All responders (one CR, five PR, and one SD) had HL whereas all cases of PMBCL progressed after first or second cycle. The disease control rate for HL was 54% (7/13) with median response duration of 5.6 months. JAK2 amplification was present in six of nine patients tested (four HL, two PMBCL), and three of these HL patients showed PR (n = 2) or SD (n = 1). None of the three HL patients shown to not have JAK2 amplification responded to ruxolitinib. Most treatment-related adverse events were grade 1 or 2 and manageable. Conclusions Ruxolitinib has single-agent activity against HL but does not act against PMBCL with or without JAK2 amplification.
Tele-transitions of Care (TTOC). A 12-month, Randomized Controlled Trial evaluating the use of Telehealth to achieve Triple Aim Objectives
Authors: Noel Kimberly , Messina Catherine , Hou Wei , Schoenfeld Elinor , Kelly Gerald
Published: October 2019

Background: Poor transitions of care leads to increased health costs, utilization and poor outcomes. This study evaluated Telehealth feasibility in improving transitions of care. Methods: This is a 12-month randomized controlled trial, evaluating the use of telehealth (remote patient monitoring and video visits) versus standard transitions of care with the outcomes of over utilization, access to care, medication management and adherence and patient engagement. Results: The study conducted between June 2017 and 2018, included 105 patients. Compared with the standard of care, Telehealth patients were more likely to have medicine reconciliation (p = 0.013) and were 7 times more likely to adhere to medication than the control group (p = 0.03). Telehealth patients exhibited enthusiasm (p = 0.0001), and confidence that Telehealth could improve their healthcare (p= 0.0001). Telehealth showed no statistical significance on ED utilization (p = 0.691) nor for readmissions (p = 0.31). 100% of Telehealth patients found the intervention to be valuable, 98% if given the opportunity, reported they would continue using telehealth to manage their healthcare needs, and 94% reported that the remote patient monitoring technology was useful. Conclusions: Telehealth can improve transitions of care after hospital discharge improving patient engagement and adherence to medications. Although this study was unable to show the effect of Telehealth on reduced healthcare utilization, more research needs to be done in order to understand the true impact of Telehealth on preventing avoidable hospital readmission and ED visits.
Pulmonary Metastasectomy versus Continued Active Monitoring in Colorectal Cancer (PulMiCC): a multi-centre randomized clinical trial
Authors: Treasure Tom , Farewell Vern , Macbeth Fergus , Monson Kathryn , Williams Norman R , Graves Chris-Brew , Lees Belinda , Grigg Olivia , Fallowfield Lesley
Published: October 2019

Abstract (348/of 350 allowed)
Background: Lung metastasectomy in the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer has been widely adopted without good evidence of survival or palliative benefit. We aimed to test its effectiveness in a randomised trial (RCT).

Methods: Multidisciplinary teams in 13 hospitals recruited participants with potentially resectable lung metastases to a multicentre 2-arm RCT comparing active monitoring with or without metastasectomy. Other local or systemic treatments were decided by the local team. Randomisation was remote and stratified by site with minimisation for age, sex, primary cancer stage, interval since primary resection, prior liver involvement, the number of metastases, and carcinoembryonic antigen. The central trial management group were blind to patient allocation until completion of the analysis. Analysis was on intention to treat with a margin for non-inferiority of 10%.

Results: Between December 2010 and December 2016, 65 participants were randomised. Characteristics were well-matched in the two arms and similar to those in reported studies: age 35 to 86 (Inter Quartile Range (IQR) 60 to 74); primary resection IQR 16 to 35 months previously; stage at resection T1, 2 or 3 in 3, 8 and 46; N1 or N2 in 31 and 26; unknown in 8. Lung metastases 1 to 5 (median 2); 16/65 had previous liver metastases; carcinoembryonic antigen normal in 55/65. There were no other interventions in the first 6 months, no cross overs from control to treatment, and no treatment-related deaths or major adverse events. Hazard ratio for death within 5 years, comparing metastasectomy with control, was 0.82 (95%CI 0.43, 1.56).

Conclusions: Because of poor and worsening recruitment, the study was stopped. The small number of participants in the trial (N=65) precludes a conclusive answer to the research question given the large overlap in the confidence intervals in the proportions still alive at all time points. A widely held belief is that the five-year absolute survival benefit with metastasectomy is about 35%: 40% after metastasectomy compared to <5% in controls. The estimated survival in this study was 38% (23-62%) for metastasectomy patients and 29% (16-52%) in the well-matched controls. That is the new and important finding of this RCT.

Funding: Cancer Research UK funding Grant No. C7678/A11393
Trial registration: Clintrial.gov
Registration number: NCT01106261
Date 19 th April 2010
SPS-neutralization in tissue samples for efficacy testing of antimicrobial peptides
Authors: Dijksteel Gabrielle , Nibbering Peter , Ulrich Magda , Middelkoop Esther , Boekema Bouke
Published: October 2019

Background
Accurate determination of the efficacy of antimicrobial agents requires neutralization of residual antimicrobial activity in the samples before microbiological assessment of the number of surviving bacteria. Sodium polyanethol sulfonate (SPS) is a known neutralizer for the antimicrobial activity of aminoglycosides and polymyxins. In this study, we evaluated the ability of SPS to neutralize residual antimicrobial activity of antimicrobial peptides [SAAP-148 and pexiganan; 1% (wt/v) in PBS], antibiotics [mupirocin (Bactroban) and fusidic acid (Fucidin) in ointments; 2% (wt/wt))] and disinfectants [2% (wt/wt) silver sulfadiazine cream (SSD) and 0.5% (v/v) chlorhexidine in 70% alcohol].
Methods
Homogenates of human skin models that had been exposed to various antimicrobial agents for 1 h were pipetted on top of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) on agar plates to determine whether the antimicrobial agents display residual activity.
To determine the optimal concentration of SPS for neutralization, antimicrobial agents were mixed with PBS or increasing doses of SPS in PBS (0.05-1% wt/v) and then 10^5 colony forming units (CFU)/mL MRSA were added. After 30 min incubation, the number of viable bacteria was assessed. Next, the in vitro efficacy of SAAP-148 against various gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria was determined using PBS or 0.05% (wt/v) SPS immediately after 30 min incubation of the mixture. Additionally, ex vivo excision wound models were inoculated with 10^5 CFU MRSA for 1 h and exposed to SAAP-148, pexiganan, chlorhexidine or PBS for 1 h. Subsequently, samples were homogenized in PBS or 0.05% (wt/v) SPS and the number of viable bacteria was assessed.
Results
All tested antimicrobials displayed residual activity in tissue samples, resulting in a lower recovery of surviving bacteria on agar. SPS concentrations at ≥0.05% (wt/v) were able to neutralize the antimicrobial activity of SAAP-148, pexiganan and chlorhexidine, but not of SSD, Bactroban and Fucidin. Finally, SPS-neutralization in in vitro and ex vivo efficacy tests of SAAP-148, pexiganan and chlorhexidine against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria resulted in significantly higher numbers of CFU compared to control samples without SPS-neutralization.
Conclusion
SPS was successfully used to neutralize residual activity of SAAP-148, pexiganan and chlorhexidine and this prevented an overestimation of their efficacy.
KARAOKE: Krill oil versus placebo in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Laslett Laura L , Antony Benny , Wluka Anita , Hill Catherine , March Lyn , Keen Helen I , Otahal Petr , Cicuttini Flavia , Jones Graeme
Published: October 2019

Background : Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and important cause of pain and disability, but interventions aimed at modifying structures visible on imaging have been disappointing. While OA affects the whole joint, synovitis and effusion have been recognised as having a role in the pathogenesis of OA. Krill oil reduces knee pain and systemic inflammation and could be used for targeting inflammatory mechanisms of OA.
Methods : 260 patients with clinical knee OA, significant knee pain and effusion-synovitis present on MRI will be recruited in 5 Australian cities (Hobart, Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Perth). They will be randomly allocated to the two arms of the study, receiving 2g/day krill oil or inert placebo daily for 6 months. MRI of the study knee will be performed at screening, and after 6 months. Knee symptoms, function and MRI structural abnormalities will be assessed using validated methods. Safety data will be recorded. Primary outcomes are absolute change in knee pain (assessed by visual analog score) and change in size of knee effusion-synovitis over 24 weeks. Secondary outcomes include improvement in knee pain over 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 weeks. The primary analyses will be intention-to-treat analyses of primary and secondary outcomes. Per protocol analyses adjusting for missing data and for treatment compliance will be performed as the secondary analyses.
Discussion : This study will provide high-quality evidence to assess whether krill oil 2g/day reduces pain and effusion-synovitis size in older adults with clinical knee OA and knee effusion-synovitis. If krill oil is effective and confirmed to be safe, we will provide compelling evidence that krill oil improves pain and function, changes disease trajectory and slows disease progression in OA. Given the lack of approved therapies for slowing disease progression in OA, and moderate cost of krill oil, these findings will be readily translated into clinical practice.
Alcohol use, pregnancy and associated risk factors: a pilot cross-sectional study of pregnant women attending antenatal care in an urban city
Authors: Moise Imelda K
Published: October 2019

Background
Alcohol consumption during pregnancy is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preventable alcohol-related developmental disability fetal alcohol syndrome. In Zambia, alcohol use and associated risk factors have not been investigated, and screening in prenatal care is nonexistent. This study determined individual correlates and the prevalence of alcohol use in pregnant women attending prenatal care at two health clinics in Lusaka, Zambia.
Methods
A study adopted a cross-sectional design and recruited 188 pregnant women after seeking their informed consent from July 19 to 31, 2017. Participants aged 18 or over completed validated alcohol screening questionnaires on self-reported alcohol use periconceptional and during conception period while at their regular prenatal visit. The questionnaires included demographic questions. Bivariate analyses were performed using the χ2 test for dichotomous variables and the t-test for continuous variables. Mixed-effects linear models were used to evaluate the effect of outcome variables with patient-level variables.
Results
About 40 (21.2%) pregnant women were identified by the T-ACE as at-risk for problem drinking during pregnancy. Except for regular prenatal care and distance, there was no difference in the demographic factors between pregnant women who scored <2 on the T-ACE and those that scored > 2 points (all p’s > 0.05). A small proportional of women at both clinics reported binge drinking during the periconceptional period (12.7% vs. 3.2%, p=0.003) and beyond periconception period. Excluding employed women, no significant relationships were observed between alcohol use and demographic factors.
Conclusion
These findings underscore the need for targeted screening and intervention for alcohol use in all pregnant women in Zambia.
Factors associated with undernutrition among children with sickle cell disease attending the sickle cell clinic in Mulago National Referral Hospital, Uganda
Authors: Asiimwe Rosta , Kananura Rornald Muhumuza , Kajjura Richard , Yeka Adoke
Published: October 2019

Background Sickle cell disease (SCD) is among the neglected non-communicable diseases, which significantly contributes to early childhood mortality. In Uganda, over 20,000 children are estimated to be sicklers. Undernutrition is common among children with SCD and contributes to increased morbidity and mortality. There is paucity of data on prevalence of undernutrition and associated factors in Uganda. Objective To assess the extent of undernutrition and related factors among children aged 5-12 years with SCD attending the sickle cell clinic at Mulago hospital, Uganda. Methods A total of 263 children with SCD attending the sickle cell clinic at Mulago National Referral hospital were recruited consecutively between May and June 2017. The nutritional status of the children was assessed by weight-for-age, BMI-for-age, and height-for-age z-scores calculated using STATA in accordance with WHO 2007 growth standards. Binomial regression was conducted to assess the predictors of undernutrition. Results About 20.2%, 11.4%, and 13.7% of the children were underweight, wasted and stunted respectively. Wasting was significantly associated with older age (10-12 years) (AOR=4.20, CI=2.18-8.10) and living in a female headed household (AOR=0.43, CI=0.19-0.99). Stunting was significantly associated with older age (10-12 years) (AOR=2.90, CI=1.39-6.06). Underweight was significantly associated with older age (10-12 years) (AOR=2.23, CI=1.05-5.16). Conclusion Underweight, wasting and stunting were prevalent among children with SCD attending Mulago hospital. The factors associated with undernutrition were older age and living in a female headed household.
A systematic review of parent based programs to prevent or reduce alcohol consumption in adolescents
Authors: Hurley Erin , Dietrich Timo , Rundle-Thiele Sharyn
Published: October 2019

Background. Adolescent alcohol consumption is an issue of ongoing concern and programs targeting parents have been identified as an important component in minimizing and preventing alcohol related harm in adolescents. This paper aims to evaluate existing parent based alcohol education programs with a focus on understanding parent specific outcomes including parental attitudes, parent-child communication, alcohol specific rule setting and parental monitoring; study quality, the extent of stakeholder engagement in program design and the level of theory application.
Method. A systematic review of electronic databases EBSCO, Emerald, ProQuest, PubMed, Ovid, ScienceDirect, Taylor and Francis and Web of Science was conducted from database inception to August 2019. A total of 4288 unique records were retrieved from the eight databases. Studies were included if they evaluated school based alcohol education programs that included a parent component and detailed outcome measures associated with parent data. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) quality assessment tool.
Results. In total 17 studies qualified for assessment, detailing 13 individual parent programs. Of these, ten programs demonstrated positive effects in at least one parent reported outcome measure. Stakeholder engagement during the design of programs was lacking with the majority of programs. One third of the programs did not report theory use and when theory was used reporting was weak with three programs applying theory, five testing theory and none building theory. According to the EPHPP tool, overall ten programs were rated as weak, three as moderate and none as strong.
Conclusion. Future studies are recommended to further enhance the effectiveness of parental programs by improving study quality, increasing stakeholder engagement and increasing the level of theory application and reporting.
Factors associated with job satisfaction among graduate nursing faculties in Nepal
Authors: Sapkota Abja , Paudel Usha Kiran , Pokhrel Jyotsana , Ghimire Pratima , Sedhain Arun , Bhattarai Gandhi R , Thapa Binu , KC Tulza
Published: October 2019

Background: Job satisfaction among nursing faculty is critical to improving quality of nursing education, producing future nurses who will contribute directly to the health of patients at a local and national level. This study explores factors associated with job satisfaction among graduate nursing faculties in different universities of Nepal.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among nursing faculty with at least one year of teaching in their respective institutions. A 36-question job satisfaction questionnaire with 6-point Likert type responses was administered online. The questionnaire was pre-tested with 30 faculties pooled from multiple institutions. Link to the final survey was sent via e-mail to 327 nursing faculties working in 39 nursing colleges. Respondents were contacted by phone as a follow up to the email to politely remind them about the survey. Data analysis was carried out with SAS University Edition software. Chi-Square test and t-test were used for simple descriptive analysis. A multivariate binary logistic regression model was used to identify the significant factors associated with nursing faculties’ job satisfaction. Adjusted odds ratio was calculated and significance was considered at p ≤0.05 with 95% confidence interval.
Results: The response rate was 54.4%. After retrospective cleaning of data, usable response rate was 52.3% (n=171). The average age of the nursing faculties was 36.8±7.0 years. Based on the overall job satisfaction score, 36.8% nursing faculties were satisfied with their current job. The coefficient for Cronbach’s alpha was 0.895 suggesting very good reliability of the overall measure. The significant factors associated with job satisfaction were the involvement of the faculties in decision making process related to the department (OR=4.83) and adequate access to reference materials (OR=2.90).
Conclusions: This study suggests that nursing faculties have positive attitude towards their job but are dissatisfied with the benefits offered to them and the operating condition of their institutions. Expanding the teaching learning resources, such as reference books, subscription to journals, and continuing education opportunities for nursing faculties through participation in professional meetings would be helpful in improving the quality of nursing education in Nepal.
Influence of Selected Biomarkers on Stress and Alexithymia in Patients under Hemodialysis Treatment
Authors: Tayaz Esra , Koç Ayşegül
Published: October 2019

Background: Chronic renal failure causes a number of physical problems in patients. Hemodialysis treatment and the stress brought along by the treatment are high and this circumstance sets the ground for alexithymia. Alexithymic feelings basically emerge as restriction in the world of emotion and thought, and inability to recognize physiological changes. Biomarkers that are indicators of physical change are influential in the stress lives of individuals. They lead to negative changes in the physical and mental lives of patients who have chronic kidney failure and individuals who receive hemodialysis treatment. This research was carried out as a relationship seeker in order to determine the influence of urea, creatinin, sodium, potassium, hemoglobin, hematocrit, albumin, calcium, phosphorus and C-reactive protein biomarkers on stress and alexithymia in individuals, who are diagnosed with chronic renal failure and receive hemodialysis treatment.
Methods: The research environment was formed of patients who underwent hemodialysis treatment in a hospital in Turkey. The subject group was completed of 72 individuals. Demographic data form, biochemical data form, Hemodialysis Stressor Scale and Toronto Alexithymia Scale were used in the research.
Results: It was found that the levels of perceived stress of individuals who participated in the research were high at all dimensions, and 59.7% were alexithymic. The means of the total scale scores of all patients were calculated as 87.81±13.59 for HSS and 62.46±9.84 for TAS. The relationship between TAS-20 and HSS and selected biomarkers were determined (p<0.05).
Conclusion: It was concluded that stress and alexithymic feelings were high in patients who received hemodialysis treatment. It was concluded that there is a relationship between C-reactive protein, creatinin, sodium, hemoglobin, hematocrit, potassium from the biomarkers and the scales and scale sub-dimensions. It is necessary to increase the awareness of nurses on the importance of the skills to communicate with individuals who have to cope with stress, manage emotions, and have high stress and emotional deprivation.
Factors Associated With Low Handgrip Strength In The Elderly: Data Of The Study Of Chronic Diseases (Edoc-I)
Authors: Amaral Cledir de Araújo , Amaral Thatiana Lameira Maciel , Monteiro Gina Torres Rego , de Vasconcellos Mauricio Teixeira Leite , Portela Margareth Crisostomo
Published: October 2019

Background Handgrip strength (HGS) is a recognized important health biomarker, whose low scores have showed an evident association with morbimortality of adults and elderly people from various parts of the world. This study aimed to analyze the factors associated with low HGS in elderly persons in Rio Branco, Acre, Brazil.Methods The study was carried out with data from the Study of Chronic Diseases (EDOC-I) – Elderly, performed with 1,016 people aged over 60 residing in Rio Branco. Associations between variables of health status (psychological and physical) and low HGS, by sex, were estimated using logistic regression.Results The reduction of the median HGS ​​was 6.0 kg per decade among men, and 2.6 kg among women. A greater reduction was observed in the lower quintile of HGS of women aged over 80 years, 4.1 kg in relation to the previous decade. Factors independently associated with low HGS in men and women, respectively, were low weigh in BMI [OR 2.80 (1.22-6.44) and OR 2.61 (1.49-4.57)], anemia [OR 4.15 (2.14-8.04) and OR 1.80 (1.08-3.01)] and diabetes as a risk factor in men [OR 1.95 (1.02-3.73)] and as protection factor in women [OR 0.53 (0.28-0.99)]. There was a higher chance of low HGS in men with partners [OR 2.44 (1.35-4.42)], smokers or former smokers [OR 3.25 (1.29-8.19)], with current self-assessment of health worse than the 12 previous months [OR 2.21 (1.16-4.21)] and dependence in ADL [OR 2.92 (1.39-6.15)]. Only among women, there was an increased chance of low HGS associated with altered WHR [OR 1.79 1.04-3.07)], insomnia [OR 1.83 (1.12-2.98)] and physical activity from displacement/occupation [OR 1.75 (1.10-2.80)]Conclusion Factors associated with low HGS are not common to gender and the inclusion of HGS as a component of health seems to be a promising strategy for disease prevention and health promotion.
Epidemiology of intestinal parasitic infections in Ethiopian children: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mekonnen Zeleke , Alemu Yonas , Emana Daniel , Chelkeba Legese
Published: October 2019

Background : Numerous studies have been carried out on assessing the prevalence of intestinal parasites infections (IPIs) among preschool and school age children in Ethiopia, however, there was no study to gather and systematically analyze this information for policy makers. Methods : We searched Medline via PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science (ISI), and Google Scholar and local peer-reviewed journals published from inception to 2019 for studies describing prevalence of IPIs among preschool and school age children. We conducted meta-regression to understand the trend and the source of heterogeneity and pooled the prevalence using ‘metaprop’ command using STATA software (Intercooled, version 14, STATA Corp, College Station, TX). Results : Eighty three (83) studies examining 56,786 fecal specimens were included. The prevalence of IPIs was 48 %( 95%CI: 42% to 53%) and showed a gradual, but significantly decreasing trends 17% (95% CI: 2.5% to 32%) for each consecutive 6 years) and was similar in males and females. The pooled prevalence in years 1997–2002, 2003–2008, 2009–2014 and >2014 was 71% (95% CI: 57% to 86%), 42% (95% CI: 27% to 56%), 48% (95% CI: 40% to 56%) and 42% (95% CI: 34% to 49%), respectively. Poly-parasitism was observed in 16% (95% CI: 13% to 19 %,) of children while, single parasite infection was observed in 36 %( 95% CI: 30% to 41%). Conclusion: IPIs are highly prevalent and well distributed across the regional states of Ethiopia. Southern and Amhara regional states carry the highest burden. We observed a gradual, but significant decreasing trends in prevalence of IPIs among Ethiopian children over the last two decades.
A mixed methods systematic review of the effects of patient online self-diagnosing in the 'smart-phone society' on the healthcare professional-patient relationship and medical authority
Authors: Farnood Annabel , Johnston Bridget , Mair Frances S
Published: October 2019

Background: As technology continues to advance, the internet is becoming increasingly popular. Self-diagnosis and health information seeking online is growing more common and it will be important to understand the influence this may have on the patient-healthcare professional relationship. Methods: A mixed-method systematic review of quantitative, qualitative and mixed method studies concerning the public and healthcare professionals’ perceptions of online self-diagnosis and health information seeking and how this can impact the patient-healthcare professional relationship. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, ACM & SCOPUS between 2007 and 2018. Relevant data were extracted, and a thematic analysis was conducted and conceptualised using the Normalisation Process Theory framework. Results: Of 6107 records identified, 25 articles met the review eligibility criteria which included 16 qualitative, 8 quantitative and 1 mixed method study. The findings indicated that patients found the internet as a complementary information source alongside healthcare professionals. Health care professionals were perceived to be the most reliable and valued information source. People feel responsible for their own health and find the internet to be a source that provides information rapidly with accessibility at their convenience. Most healthcare professionals agreed on the importance of collaboration with patients and the need to develop a partnership and shared decision-making process but struggled to find time in the consultation to do so efficiently. Some healthcare professionals felt that the internet was advantageous for patients looking after their own health, while others felt it was due to a lack of trust in their expertise. Patients tended to present information to the healthcare professional to support the therapeutic relationship rather than to challenge it and to become more involved in the decision-making process of their healthcare. Conclusion: The results of this review suggests that patients value healthcare professionals as a source of medical advice more than the internet. While health professionals views were mixed our findings indicate that online health information seeking can potentially improve the patient-healthcare professional relationship as patients reported they usually conducted an online search to form a partnership with the healthcare professional as opposed to trying to prove them wrong. Systematic review registration: CRD42018084230
Satisfaction with clinical practice among nursing students using regression models and qualitative comparative analysis
Authors: Fernández-García David , Moreno-Latorre Esther , Giménez-Espert María del Carmen , Prado-Gascó Vicente Javier
Published: October 2019

Background: Clinical practices are considered fundamental in nursing studies for effective training of nurses and in students’ satisfaction. Both the clinical environment and the clinical educator are key factors in satisfaction with the clinical practice. The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of the socio-demographic variables of clinical educators and nursing students on satisfaction with the clinical practices.Methods: The study included 527 nursing students enrolled on the subject of clinical practice at a private university in Valencia, Spain. The age of the participants ranged from 19 to 51 years old, (M=24.4; SD=6.1) and 79% (451) were women. An instrument was used to measure satisfaction with the practices based on the following scales: Clinical Learning Environment (CLE-1995), Clinical Learning Environment and Supervision (CLES-2002), Clinical Learning Environment Inventory (CLEI-2003), Clinical Learning environment, supervision and nurse teacher (CLES+T - 2008) and the Clinical Assessment Instrument (IEC-2009). Two statistical methodologies were used for data analysis: hierarchical regression models (HRM) and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis model (fsQCA).Results : The results indicate that sociodemographic variables such as sex and year group influence student satisfaction in both methodologies. Conclusions: Based on these results, training plans to improve students’ satisfaction with the clinical practice can be established.