bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Newly Developed Drilling Rate Model Optimizes Drilling Efficiency Using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Al-Rubaii Mohammed M
Published: February 2024

Rate of penetration is defined as the depth of the drilled rock per time unit while drilling. Alternatively, drilling rate or rate of penetration (ROP) is the speed of drilling. It is usually stated as drilled footage per hour (ft/hr). ROP has a major impact on the cost optimization and accelerating delivery of wells. ROP is a critical factor in calculating cost per foot in each well. ROP optimization ensures efficient mud solid equipment by controlling the mud control system and its compatibility with drilling cuttings. It is also valuable to optimize the ROP without jeopardizing the well drilling performance order to avoid the inducing drilling problems.

The objective of the introduced paper is to present a new rate of penetration model that combine the mechanical parameters, bit and rig hydraulics, and drilling fluid rheological properties. The model has been validated in the field, and compared with offset wells. The results has shown improvement of well drilling performance and safe optimization. Many of ROP models were developed before such as ROP model based on drilling fluid parameters, surface drilling parameters, or machine learning models or on bit design modifications models. Noticeably, those models have not been validated, and not feasible for drilling operation.

The new ROP model combines several factors, has been validated, and designed for drilling operation. Mechanical parameters, rheological properties, bit & rig hydraulics were collected for the same field, hole section, and mud type to ensure the compatibility of the developed model with applications of ROP optimization for the given field. The relationships between ROP with mechanical parameters, drilling fluid rheological properties and bit and rig hydraulics were analyzed and evaluated to conclude the best and strongest relationships. The optimization was used and implemented by including valuable and novel technique that enabled the developed model to perform significant improvement in comparison with drilled offset wells. The result showed the validation and comparison values of measured ROP was 95 % of regression which is a high value of squared regression of R2. By comparing the optimized ROP in real time with offset wells’ ROP, 50% ROP improvement was recorded. The developed model can tell the user the optimized drilling parameters, proper drilling fluid properties, enhanced rig & bit hydraulics that can lead for comparable and proper optimization without jeopardizing the well drilling performance. The developed model can be easily link to real time operations center (RTOC) to ensure real time monitoring model and ROP analyzer system. The new model can be compiled with other artificial intelligent tools in real time.
Digital Well Construction Environment Enables Holistic Risk Management and Optimization in Mature Field
Authors: Bone Kim , Castro Boris , Hummes Olof , Karimi Hamid , Marwah Gaurav
Published: February 2024

In a mature, conventional hydrocarbon field, increasing variance in well designs is required to exploit remaining reserves. Unplanned well events cause non-productive time (NPT) in drilling operations, where root cause must be understood to tailor and implement solutions. The interpretation of offset well subsurface data is considered key in overcoming drilling challenges and for the cost-effective planning and delivery of further development wells in this environment. An integrated well construction software with holistic offset data analysis and physics modelling capabilities allows to investigate historic performance, capture key lessons learned, and improve well design for field optimization.

The introduction of an innovative offset analysis functionality acted as an enabler to create situational understanding of events and implement corrective actions for new wells being planned, reducing a process that often took weeks to a few days. Enabled by effective data aggregation workflows and 2D/3D viewing techniques in multiple data domains including depth and time, an expedited understanding of well events was achieved. Offset data correlation and analysis capability was paired with physics-based drilling hydraulics modelling to resolve root causes and establish an improved risk registry.

The case example discussed in this paper illustrates a focused study of well event sequences in a field, the capturing and application of learnings, achieving coherent risk management and improvements of well design and engineering. The outcomes of the analysis and planning phase can also be seamlessly leveraged in real-time monitoring and process automation steps for maximum efficiency and minimum NPT in well delivery.
Realtime Open Hole Modeling of Equivalent Circulating Density Using High Frequency Pressure Sensors Across the Drillstring to Maximize Horizontal Drilling Capability
Authors: Arab R. , Toktabolat Z. , Anderson M. E. , Nasef M. M.
Published: February 2024

Wired drill pipe (WDP) telemetry that transmits downhole data at 57,600 bits per second has been successful in various applications throughout the world. This paper discusses how monitoring annular pressures at multiple locations along the drillstring helped manage wellbore stability, mitigate risks observed on offset wells, and allow the well to be drilled to total depth (TD).

Annular pressure is a direct function of the sum of the frictional forces within a circulating system. These forces primarily depend on external factors including mud density, flow pattern, mud rheology, rate of penetration (ROP) (and resultant cuttings load), hole cleaning, and effective circulating area. Hole overloading often causes excessive equivalent circulation densities (ECD) in horizontal sections due to poor cuttings transport and/or penetration rates at which flow rates cannot remove the drilled cuttings effectively.

With traditional methods, ECD is only available from the logging while drilling (LWD) tool in the bottomhole assembly (BHA). Along-string measurement (ASM) tools that provide three-axis vibrations, rotation, temperature, and bore/annular pressure measurements, coupled with the WDP's high-speed real-time network, allows to deliver an accurate understanding of actual annular pressure at different locations in the wellbore.

Multiple annular pressure measurements enabled a clearer understanding of hole loading at different locations along the wellbore and the effective cuttings transport and wellbore geometry. Bottoms up circulations in the intermediate section could have reduced circulation times when ECDs stayed low and little ECD reduction was observed. However, additional circulations were carried out when high ECDs were observed to ensure optimal hole cleaning and prevent loss circulation.

In the horizontal sections of offset wells, drilling to planned section TD was not achieved due to loss circulation caused by higher ECDs, or hole instability that caused drilling troubles such as stuck pipe. WDP enabled the view of ECDs in an intuitive manner throughout the horizontal section and at the shoe to ensure ECD limits were not exceeded.

A scalable equivalent fluid density (EFD) heat map viewer that shows the ECDs throughout the entire drillstring was deployed. True static densities can also be observed because pumping is not required to pulse sensor information to the surface. The viewer greatly enhances the intuitive understanding of the pressures and provides insight into how high weight sweeps affect the wellbore as they travel down the pipe ID and up the annulus.
Performance Improvement Through Continuous Learning – A Case Study of World's First Unified 30 and 20 Casing While Drilling Project
Authors: Soi A. , Prakash S. , Sharma R. , Zayyan M. , Narayanan S. , Herrera Gomez D. , Halma J. P. , Balen A. V.
Published: February 2024

The objective of this paper is to present the valuable lessons learned in the world's first unified 30" and 20" non-directional Casing While Drilling (CWD) project in ONGC's Bombay High field and how the operational workflow was optimized based on those learnings to further enhance operational efficiency. The focus is on addressing the challenges encountered during the operation and sharing the corresponding solutions.

The project involved drilling six wells using CWD technology in the exploratory fields of Bombay High. Specially designed Copper-Bronze Drillable Alloy Bits (DABs) were attached to the bottom of the casing to drill and case the 30" conductor pipe and the 20" surface casing. A casing drive system provided mechanical and hydraulic energy to the assembly and DABs. Based on challenges faced and experiences gained in the six well pilot project, the operational procedures and workflow were constantly optimized to ensure continuous improvement in well delivery timelines.

The implementation of CWD technology reduced the average drilling time of the 30" and 20" sections from an average of 12.83 days to 5.95 days, resulting in significant savings of 41 offshore rig days in the six-well pilot project. The use of CWD technology eliminated the need for piling the 30" conductor casing, 17.5" pilot hole drilling, and subsequent hole enlargement to 26" to facilitate lowering of 20" casing. This improvement in the drilling efficiency allowed ONGC to meet their drilling targets, reduce NPT, and improve well delivery rate. The CWD technique also reduced the HSE exposure of the rig crew, as the risks associated with piling, higher man hours, tripping operations and manual handling of large sized casings were eliminated. The paper explains the various optimizations that were done in the process of CWD to overcome unique challenges that helped improve the well delivery timeline from average 6.25 days in the first 3 wells to average 5.65 days in the last 3 wells.

This paper provides a comprehensive case study of the world's first unified 30" and 20" CWD project in the Bombay High field. The lessons learned from addressing extremely unique challenges such as high torque, casing sinking, DAB drill-out issue, and CRT stuck issues during the operation are shared in the paper. The insights gained from this study will benefit drilling engineers, well planners, and operators seeking to implement CWD technology more efficiently, reduce NPT, optimize well delivery, and maintain safety standards.
Proactive Detection Methodology of Line Break Condition of the Pipeline
Authors: Zahrani M. , Kim H. , Alikhan A. , Al-Jubran M.
Published: February 2024

This paper described an innovative approach of pipeline break prevention, which can be utilized in any facility/organization that would like to enhance its reliability, security, and efficiency. The basic concept of this approach can be applied not only in the petroleum industry, but extended to other industries.

In most of pipelines in industry, there is pipeline break detection alarm(s) system for emergency shutdown action(s) in case of real pipeline break condition happens. This pipeline break detection has been based upon the pipeline service condition changes, high-high flow and low pressure in general. These setting values may vary depending on site or process condition. However, since the setting values are based on worst or maximum process operating condition on flow and pressure against pipeline bursting, the pipeline break alarm(s) cannot be detected even though it actually happens at below the pipeline break condition setting values. Moreover, existing pipeline break alarming system cannot protect the break incident proactively as it is designed after the fact.

Khurais Producing Department in Saudi Aramco developed new automated logic program to proactively detect pipeline break symptom and condition by utilizing the combination of existing flow and pressure data, not by fixed setting values but by dynamic setting values, rate of changes per specific period of time, which can be defined depending on processes.

The proactive pipeline break detection will generate multiple levels of pre-alarms such as pre-warning alarm, intermediate alarm based on calculated rate of change values, and eventually pipeline break alarm with associated Emergency Shutdown event triggering actions will be made for actual pipeline break condition(s).

With this new methodology most of pipeline break symptom and condition can be proactively detected in real time basis, the fact of which will provide plant operator enough time to take necessary action before the real pipeline break happens. The cost saving with this simply but powerful feature will be huge comparing to any recovery cost caused by catastrophic pipeline break incident.
An Emerging Technology That Enabled Paradigm-Shifting in the Discipline of Well Safety Critical Equipment Maintenance
Authors: Amad M. Abou , Daghar T. Al , Kunhi S. , Iqbal A. , Basit A. , Alketbi A. , Muhannadi R. Al , Abdi R. , Singh K. , Doso S. , Alblooshi A.
Published: February 2024

Repairing Hydraulic Control Lines and damage in Wireline Nipples for Downhole Safety Valves (DHSVs) has been a worldwide challenge for operators since all prevailing solutions (sealants) in the industry tend to plug these control lines after repair work. Hence, the conventional solution has been to Workover such wells. However, an in-depth collaborative work in UAE during last 1-year proved to be ground-breaking in ensuring almost no likelihood of control line plugging after successful repair (saving ~ $ 32 Million, 240MB of Production Gain and 2760 tons of carbon emission in UAE)

A task force was formed in UAE to ensure absolute minimum likelihood of Control Line Plugging after deploying repairing Sealants, who worked rigorously to successfully complete all required workshop/field trials for a newly developed product called Piston Sealant, which acts like a piston within Control line based on the principles of buoyancy and specific gravities. This can seal all leak paths in Wireline Nipples/Control Lines and also transmits hydraulic power (hence no chance of plugging). However, another challenge was how to stop Piston Sealant to move out of control line during bleed-off? This was overcome by successfully deploying a special Ingress Isolation System at Control Line which would ensure to maintain minimum positive pressure (~150 psi) within control line to avoid losing Piston Sealant during bleed-off (100% success rate so far).

The initiative has been proved to be indispensable not only on financial terms but also provides carbon-neutral alternative, which conveys a clear focus on enhancing energy security across the industry while mitigating environmental impacts. Following were the major impacts as a result of implementing this initiative. Proven Financial Gains - There is huge commercial potential for this initiative since it is already field proven on 4 offshore wells(saving>$30 millions of planned workover cost) and same can be applied for decades to come across the Oil & Gas industry.Production Gain - Avoided at least 30 days of Production loss per well.Sustainable Rig-less Approach -(a) The initiative is a Rigless alternate solution to Workover.

The innovative aspects of this initiative combined with its tangible results positioned it as a model that other organizations could adopt across the industry. This unique approach was trialed successfully for the first time at various fields in UAE and this would hopefully fulfil exiting gap in the Oil Field Industry that lacks any inventive international guidelines to resolve these Safety Critical Equipment operational problems in an energy efficient manner.
Dynamic Flow Behavior Analysis of Wet Gas Pipelines
Authors: Putra S. A.
Published: February 2024

Corroded wet gas pipelines could be a result of inadequate flow and cause stagnant water along the pipeline. Evaluation of flow behavior in a pipeline is necessary to ensure the integrity of the pipeline is well maintained. This paper presents an evaluation through dynamic flow simulation analysis of the optimum flow range for avoiding low velocity and stagnant fluid in a wet-gas pipeline network. The determining factors include pressure drop, liquid and water holdup, as well as gas and liquid velocities.

To minimize the potential for corrosion due to stagnant water in contact with the pipe wall, the gas flow rate corresponding to a range of water holdup values along the pipeline, as well as the range of gas velocities, were evaluated. The variation in liquid velocity at these conditions was evaluated to confirm the stability of the flow. Additionally, the gas flow rates corresponding to the minimum holdup in the pipeline and overall pressure drop were obtained. Due to the dynamic nature of the flow, analysis required determination of maximum, minimum and average values associated with the gas flow rates. The impact of the elevation profile, various pipe sizes (4, 6, 8, and inches), and different gas properties were also considered for this analysis.

Analysis indicated that operating at a minimum pressure drop in the pipeline could increase the potential for corrosion due to increase in water holdup. Additionally, the analysis suggested that the minimum flow rate for operation of the pipelines should be based on flow stability and water wetting the wall, and on acceptable pressure drop, but not by liquid or water holdup/accumulation.

Dynamic flow behavior analysis in this paper shows flow stability corresponds to the gas flow rates for different pipeline sizes. Corrosion in pipelines may therefore be due to low flow or stagnant liquid along the pipeline, which is an important factor for assessing pipeline integrity.
Aneurisma aórtico associado à Síndrome de Marfan
Authors: Gonçalves Itamar Magalhães , Ribeiro Sara Fernandes , Oliveira Carlos Ramon Andrade de , Lima Sílvio Carlos de Albuquerque , Guimarães Jhonantan Jason Marques da Cunha
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Analisar a associação do aneurisma aórtico e a Síndrome de Marfan. Métodos: Este estudo constitui-se de um estudo bibliográfico de revisão integrativa utilizando as plataformas online PubMed e LILACS (Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde) como fontes de informações com os seguintes descritores: aneurisma aórtico (aortic aneurysm), Fibrilina -1 (Fibrillin-1) e Síndrome de Marfan (Marfan Syndrome). Utilizaram-se artigos disponíveis em português e inglês acessíveis integralmente de forma gratuita publicados nos últimos vinte anos. Resultados: A escolha de 2994 artigos da plataforma PUBMED e 61 artigos da plataforma LILACS. Após a seleção, aplicando os critérios de inclusão e exclusão, definiram-se 20 artigos para o refinamento de conteúdo. Após esta etapa, restaram 7 artigos. Considerações finais: Esta revisão ressaltou a importância do sistema renina-angiotensina na regulação cardiovascular e nas doenças relacionadas, como a síndrome de Marfan e os aneurismas da aorta torácica. A compreensão contínua dos mecanismos subjacentes a essas doenças é fundamental para desenvolver abordagens terapêuticas mais eficazes e personalizadas, visando melhorar a qualidade de vida dos pacientes e reduzir complicações cardiovasculares graves.
Services Quality or Sharia Compliance? Factors which mostly Influence Customer Selection of Islamic Banks – The Case of Tanzania
Authors: Ramadhani Mussa K. , Bilen Mahmut
Published: February 2024

In the realm of banking, Islamic banking concepts and practices may appear unfamiliar to certain customers, particularly those transitioning from conventional banking systems. The perception of customers is significantly influenced by the level of education and awareness imparted by the banks themselves. Moreover, it is widely believed that customer perception directly impacts their satisfaction levels. Within Tanzania, the Islamic banking sector has experienced modest growth in recent years. This study aims to delve into the perception held by customers regarding Islamic Banks’ adherence to Shariah principles in their operations. Also, it aims to understand the factors that attract customers to Islamic banks instead of conventional ones. This research focuses on the Islamic banking industry in Tanzania, covering both the mainland and the Island of Zanzibar. A total of 305 Islamic bank customers participated in this study by completing a close-ended questionnaire. Using a descriptive research design, this study examined four key factors: the banks’ compliance with Shariah principles, customers’ awareness of Islamic banking products and services, criteria used by customers when selecting a bank, and customer satisfaction with the quality of services offered. The findings showed that the majority of Islamic bank customers in Tanzania perceived these banks to be operating in accordance with Shariah law. This study also highlighted that Shariah compliance was the primary influencing factor in choosing an Islamic bank over a conventional followed by service quality. Therefore, Islamic banks in Tanzania should focus on providing more education about Islamic banking and ensuring that their products align with Islamic law.
How Do Islamic Stock Markets React to Country-based and Global Financial Factors in BRIC and G7? Evidence from a Novel MMQR Approach
Authors: Sadat Irfana , Görmüş Şakir , Güven Murat
Published: February 2024

The purpose of the study is to compare the effect of country-based and global financial factors on Islamic stock market returns of BRIC (developing) and G7 (developed) country groups covering data from March 26, 2015, to March 31, 2021, for BRIC countries and July 27, 2015, to March 31, 2021, for G7 countries. A newly developed method of moment quantile regression (MMQR) is used to detect the asymmetric effects on Islamic stock market return across bullish, bearish, and normal market conditions, which is essential to better analyzing the stock market return. The outcome demonstrates that exchange rates have a significantly positive effect on stock market returns while CDS has a significant negative impact on the stock market return in G7 countries in both bearish and normal markets. On the contrary, we observe that the link between CDS and Islamic stock returns is negative but statistically insignificant in the case of BRIC. Additionally, we consider the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) world index and the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) as the global financial factors. We find that the estimated coefficients of the MSCI world index have significant and positive effects on the stock market return in the case of both BRIC and G7 countries at all quantile levels. VIX has a significant negative impact on the Islamic stock return of the G7 across all quantiles. On the other hand, it has significant negative impacts only in transition (Q6) and a bullish period in the case of BRIC. The outcomes of the research will assist portfolio risk managers, international investors, and policymakers in building diversified portfolios and making investment decisions throughout the market’s busts and booms.
Radiotherapy for Myeloid Sarcoma of the Breast: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors:   Department of Radiation Oncology, Genesis Care, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Dr, Murdoch WA 6150 Australia, J Dortmans , Y Zissiadis ,   Department of Radiation Oncology, Genesis Care, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Dr, Murdoch WA 6150 Australia
Published: February 2024

While the role of systemic therapy in the treatment of myeloid sarcoma is well documented, the evidence for the use of radiation therapy is sparse. We present a case of isolated myeloid sarcoma to the breast. Following treatment for myelodysplastic syndrome. Myeloid Sarcomas (MS) are also known as chloromas and granulocytic sarcomas. They are extramedullary tumours of immature myeloid cells that develop in the setting of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML), Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML) and accelerated phase MyeloDysplastic Syndrome (MDS) [1]. Treatment options include systemic therapy, localised radiation treatment or surgery. Retrospective series have identified that radiotherapy provides safe and reliable local control and symptom palliation [2]. We conducted a review of literature to assess the rationale, role, and dose of radiotherapy for this rare leukemia manifestation in the breast.
Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Proliferation Associated with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors:   Department of Pathology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, USA, YW Qian , K Shalaby ,   Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, USA, EA Griffiths ,   Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, USA, K Fu ,   Department of Pathology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, USA, S Ali ,   Department of Pathology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, USA
Published: February 2024

We present a typical case of plasmacytoid dendritic cell proliferation associated with acute myeloid leukemia (pDC-AML). The patient was a 65-year-old male admitted for new onset progressive pancytopenia over the course of three weeks. Diagnostic marrow revealed 27% myeloblasts. In addition, flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry studies identified an 18% population of immature plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Baseline next-generation sequencing identified pathogenic mutations in ASXL1, EZH2, FLT3, and RUNX1. The patient underwent induction chemotherapy for a diagnosis of pDC-AML. One month after chemotherapy, evaluation for Measurable Residual Disease (MRD) using multiparameter flow cytometry was interpreted as negative with changes related to treatment. pDC-AML is a newly described rare subtype of acute myeloid leukemia which can impose diagnostic challenges. Clinical, pathologic, and molecular correlation are important to render an accurate final diagnosis. We review the published literature on pDC-AML cases and discuss pDC biology, and the process for differentiating the diagnosis of pDC-AML from those of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm or mature plasmacytoid dendritic cell proliferations associated with other myeloid neoplasms. The AML MRD evaluation for pDC-AML is a particular challenge. To this end, additional molecular studies, including MRD tests using next-generation sequencing, can be of great help.
Mantele Cell Lymphoma Presenting as a Mass in the Posterior Cervical Muscles: A Rare Case Report
Authors:   Department of Hematology and Internal Medicine, CHU Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco, Filali I Ait El , Haidouri S ,   Department of Hematology and Internal Medicine, CHU Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco, Maachi N El ,   Department of Hematology and Internal Medicine, CHU Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco, Benlachgar N ,   Department of Hematology and Internal Medicine, CHU Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco, Maamar M ,   Department of Hematology and Internal Medicine, CHU Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco, Harmouch H ,   Department of Hematology and Internal Medicine, CHU Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco, Mezalek Z Tazi ,   Department of Hematology and Internal Medicine, CHU Ibn Sina, Rabat, Morocco
Published: February 2024

Mantle cell lymphomas are mature B-cell neoplasms that exhibit an aggressive clinical behavior and overexpression of cyclin D1 protein. Although lymphadenopathy is the most typical manifestation of the disease, Primary extranodal disease is seen in approximately 25% of cases, while presentation at sites other than these primary extranodal sites is uncommon and typically involves the salivary glands, skin, thyroid, orbit, breast, epidural space, pleura, and spleen. Involvement of neck muscle tissue is extremely rare, and to our knowledge, we present the first reported case of CML presenting as a mass in the posterior cervical muscles.
Leukemic Transformation of Longstanding Essential Thrombocythemia
Authors:   Medical Student, Edward via College of Osteopathic Medicine, USA, SJ Weir , MP Talari ,   Department of Internal Medicine, Johnston Memorial Hospital, USA, I Nakhoul ,   Department of Hematology and Oncology, Ballad Health Cancer Center, USA
Published: February 2024

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) represents only 1% of all cancers, despite being the most frequent type of leukemia [1]. Multiple genetic pathways are associated with AML, causing various changes in genetic transcription, apoptosis, chromatin remodeling, and protein levels. One such pathway, the JAK-STAT pathway, governs cellular proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis, and is linked to both AML and myeloproliferative neoplasms due to mutations [2]. The JAK V617F mutation is the most common mutation in this pathway, occurring in about 50% of Essential Thrombocythemia (ET) patients, as described in this report [2]. While rare, transformation of Essential Thrombocythemia (ET) to AML occurs in 1-4% of cases [3]. This report presents a case of AML in a 76-year-old male with a medical history of ET. Following an abnormal peripheral blood smear, bone marrow biopsy confirmed the diagnosis. The current report aims to emphasize the significance of regular screening and monitoring for patients with long-standing Essential Thrombocythemia (ET), especially those under suppressive therapy. The transformation of ET to acute leukemia is associated with an unfavorable prognosis, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis. Therefore, this case serves to draw attention to the criticality of timely intervention through routine follow-up to achieve optimal outcomes for patients with ET.
A Case of Synchronous Rectal Cancer and Right Sided Colon Cancer Treated with Transvaginal NOSES Technique
Authors:   Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China, GU Tiefeng , Lin Yujia ,   Department of General Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China, Hu Hanqing ,   Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China, Wang Guiyu ,   Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China
Published: February 2024

Introduction: We reported a 53 years old female patient with synchronous rectal cancer and right sided colon cancer who underwent transvaginal NOSES to resect two tumors with no serious postoperative complications. Case report: The patient underwent electronic colonoscopy and found two lesions in the intestine, located in the right colon and rectum. Pathological examination confirmed that both lesions were malignant tumors, and the patient was diagnosed with concurrent colon and rectal cancer. After diagnosis, the patient underwent transvaginal NOSES, and the intraoperative exploration results were consistent with electronic colonoscopy. The surgery completely resected two malignant tumors at same time. The pathological report staging of right colon cancer is AJCC stage II (pT3N0M0), with moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma and negative circumferential margin. The pathological report staging of rectal ancer is AJCC stage IIIpT2N1aM0), with moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma and negative circumferential margin. The patient recovered well after surgery and did not experience any serious postoperative complications. Patient receives XELOX chemotherapy after surgery. Discussion: Transvaginal NOSES is a safe and effective surgical method for synchronous multiple primary colorectal cancer. However, due to the complexity of the surgery and the increased anesthesia risks associated with additional surgical time, experienced surgical and anesthesia teams are required. Conclusion: The application of transvaginal NOSES in the treatment of synchronous multiple primary colorectal cancer is still in the exploratory stage, and more clinical studies are needed to prove its feasibility, safety, and effectiveness.
Photoresponsive Arylazopyrazole Surfactant/PDADMAC Mixtures: Reversible Control of Bulk and Interfacial Properties
Authors: Hardt Michael , Honnigfort Christian , Carrascosa-Tejedor Javier , Braun Marius , Winnall Samuel , Glikman Dana , Gutfreund Philipp , Campbell Richard A. , Braunschweig Bjoern
Published: February 2024

In many applications of polyelectrolyte/surfactant (P/S) mixtures, it is difficult to fine-tune them after mixing the components without changing the sample composition, e.g. pH or the ionic strength. Here we report on a new approach where we use photoswitchable surfactants to enable drastic changes in both the bulk and interfacial properties. Poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC) mixtures with three alkyl-arylazopyrazole butyl sulfonates (CnAAP) with -H, -butyl and -octyl tails are applied and E/Z photoisomerization of the surfactants is used to cause substantially different hydrophobic interactions between the surfactants and PDADMAC. This affects significantly the P/S binding and allows for tuning both the bulk and interfacial properties of PDADMAC/CnAAP mixtures through light irradiation. For that, we have fixed the surfactant concentrations at values where they exhibit pronounced surface tension changes upon E/Z photoisomerization with 365 nm UV light (Z) and 520 nm green (E) light and have varied the PDADMAC concentration. The electrophoretic mobility can be largely tuned by photoisomerisation of CnAAP surfactants and P/S aggregates, which can even exhibit a charge reversal from negative to positive values or vice versa. In addition, low colloidal stability at equimolar concentrations of PDADMAC with CnAAP surfactants in the E configuration lead to the formation of large aggregates in the bulk which can be redissolved by irradiation with UV light when the surfactant‘s alkyl chain is short enough (C0AAP). Vibrational sum-frequency generation (SFG) reveals changes at the interface similar to the bulk, where the charging state at air-water interfaces can be modified with light irradiation. Using SFG spectroscopy, we interrogated the O-H stretching modes of interfacial H2O and provide qualitative information on surface charging that is complemented by neutron reflectometry, from which we resolved the surface excess of PDADMAC and CnAAP at the air-water interface, independently.
Preparation and characterization of a mesoporous silica-based copolymer loaded with bis(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate for the efficient separation of trace radium from natural thorium
Authors: He Xuexiang , Liao Linyuan , Tang Jing , Lv Lidan , He Dongqiao , Yin Xiangbiao , Li Wenlong , Wei Yuezhou , Ning Shunyan , Chen Lifeng
Published: February 2024

Targeted α-nuclide therapy (TAT) has attracted significant attention in recent years due to its unique advantages in cancer treatment. As one of the most important TAT nuclides, 212Pb is quite rare and strongly depends on the supply of its parent nuclides with an appropriate half-life, such as 228Ra or 224Ra. Therefore, establishing a stable and effective method to obtain these nuclides is critical. To address this issue, a silica-supported copolymer loaded with bis (2-ethylhexyl) phosphate (HDEHP) was prepared, characterized, and investigated for the separation of 228Ra and 224Ra from natural 232Th in the nitric acid media. The experimental results showed that the adsorbent was prepared successfully with 19.5 wt% HDEHP loading, and possessed a small particle size and a porous structure. Compared with traditional cation exchange resin, the adsorbent exhibited ultrahigh selectivity and ultrafast adsorption kinetics towards thorium, with the equilibrium time less than 3 min. The adsorption isotherm was well described by the Langmuir model, and the maximum adsorption amount towards thorium could reach 72.0 mg/g. Thermodynamic investigations suggested that the thorium adsorption was endothermic and spontaneous. On basis of batch experiments, the separation behaviors were further investigated in column modes, and the separation of 228Ra and 224Ra from thorium was finally demonstrated using 226Ra as the tracer nuclide. The chemical recovery rate to 226Ra reached 96.7%, and the decontamination factor to thorium exceeded 105. The spectroscopic assessment suggested that the adsorbed species was mainly the positive Th4+ cation and almost no barium and nitrate ions were involved. The adsorption mechanism was dominated by compounding with oxygen in P-O-H and P=O groups. This work exhibited an excellent material and an efficient method for separating 228Ra and 224Ra from natural thorium, rendering it particularly significant in the future preparation and application of 212Pb.
Capture-and-release of a sulfoquinovose-binding protein on sulfoquinovose-modified agarose
Authors: Arumapperuma Thimali , Snow Alexander , Lee Mihwa , Sharma Mahima , Zhang Yunyang , Lingford James , Goddard-Borger Ethan , Davies Gideon , Williams Spencer
Published: February 2024

The solute-binding protein (SBP) components of periplasmic binding protein-dependent ATP-binding cassette (ABC)-type transporters often possess exquisite selectivity for their cognate ligands. Maltose binding protein (MBP), the best studied of these SBPs, has been extensively used as a fusion partner to enable the affinity purification of recombinant proteins. However, other SBPs and SBP-ligand based affinity systems remain underexplored. The sulfoquinovose-binding protein SmoF, is a substrate-binding protein component of the ABC transporter cassette in Agrobacterium tumefaciens involved in importing SQ and its derivatives for SQ catabolism. Here, we show that SmoF binds with high affinity to the octyl glycoside of SQ (octyl-SQ), demonstrating remarkable tolerance to extension of the anomeric substituent. The 3D X-ray structure of the SmoF•octyl-SQ complex reveals accommodation of the octyl chain, which projects to the protein surface, providing impetus for the synthesis of a linker-equipped SQ-amine using a thiol-ene reaction as a key step, and its conjugation to cyanogen bromide modified agarose. We demonstrate the successful capture and release of SmoF from SQ-agarose resin using SQ as competitive eluant, and selectivity for release versus other organosulfonates. We demonstrate that SmoF can be captured and purified from a cell lysate, demonstrating the utility of SQ-agarose in capturing SQ binding proteins from complex mixtures. The present work provides a pathway for development of ‘capture-and-release’ affinity resins for the discovery and study of SBPs.
Photocatalysis with Chalcogen Bonds
Authors: Janicki Mikołaj Jan , Szabla Rafał
Published: February 2024

In a recent prebiotically plausible synthesis of 2'-deoxyribose-2-thiouridine, UV irradiation and aqueous bisulfide were employed to conduct the photoreduction of 2',2-thioanhydrouridine, resulting in the formation of the non-canonical thiopyrimidine nucleoside. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing the synthesis, we conducted ab initio molecular dynamics simulations and photochemical calculations. Our findings demonstrate that thioanhydrouridine can readily establish intermolecular non-covalent interactions with bisulfide anions, known as chalcogen bonds. Upon UV excitation, in such a thioanhydrouridine-uridine encounter complex, selective excited-state electron transfer can be triggered from bisulfide to the C2'-S bond of thioanhydrouridine, leading to a photoreduction process. In this work, for the first time, we demonstrate that small anions might form stable intermolecular chalcogen contacts with chromophores and, importantly, could serve as electron donor chemical species, which are activated only in a UV-rich environment.
Rapid Flow-Based Synthesis of Post-Translationally Modified Peptides and Proteins: A Case Study on MYC’s Transactivation Domain
Authors: Williams Elyse T. , Schiefelbein Kevin , Schuster Matthias , Ahmed Ikhlas M. M. , De Vries Marije , Beveridge Rebecca , Zerbe Oliver , Hartrampf Nina
Published: February 2024

Protein-protein interactions of c-Myc (MYC) are often regulated by post-translational modifications (PTMs), such as phosphorylation, and crosstalk thereof. Studying these interactions requires proteins with unique PTM patterns, which are challenging to obtain by recombinant methods. Standard peptide synthesis and native chemical ligation can produce such modified proteins, but are time-consuming and therefore typically limited to the study of individual PTMs. Herein, we report the development of flow-based methods for the rapid synthesis of phosphorylated MYC sequences (up to 84 AA), and demonstrate the versatility of this approach for the incorporation of other PTMs (Nε methylation, sulfation, acetylation, glycosylation) and combinations thereof. Peptides containing up to seven PTMs and five phosphorylations were successfully prepared and isolated in high yield and purity. Our methodology was then applied in the production of ten PTM-decorated analogues of the MYC Transactivation Domain (TAD) to screen for binding to the tumor suppressor protein, Bin1, using heteronuclear NMR and native mass spectrometry. We determined the effects of phosphorylation and glycosylation on the strength of the MYC:Bin1 interaction, and reveal an influence of MYC sequence length on binding. Our platform for the rapid synthesis of MYC sequences up to 84 AA with distinct PTM patterns thereby enables the systematic study of PTM function at a molecular level, and offers a convenient way for an expedited screening of constructs.
Cation dependence of enniatin B/membrane-interactions assessed using surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Gonzalez Barbara Daiana , Forbrig Enrico , Yao Guiyang , Kielb Patrycja , Mroginski Maria Andrea , Hildebrandt Peter , Kozuch Jacek
Published: February 2024

Enniatins are mycotoxins with well-known antibacterial, antifungal, antihelmintic and antiviral activity, which have recently come to attention as potential mitochondriotoxic anticancer agents. The cytotoxicity of enniatins is traced back to their ionophoric properties, in which the cyclodepsipeptidic structure results in enniatin:cation-complexes of various stoichiometries proposed as membrane-active species. In this work, we employed a combination of surface-enhanced infrared absorption (SEIRA) spectroscopy, tethered bilayer lipid membranes (tBLMs) and density functional theory (DFT)-based computational spectroscopy to monitor the cation-dependence (Mz+ = Na+, K+, Cs+, Li+, Mg2+, Ca2+) on the mechanism of enniatin B (EB) incorporation into membranes and identify the functionally relevant EBn:Mz+ complexes formed. We find that Na+ promotes a cooperative incorporation, modelled via an autocatalytic mechanism and mediated by a distorted 2:1-EB2:Na+ complex. K+ (and Cs+) leads to a direct but less efficient insertion into membranes due to the adoption of “ideal” EB2:K+ sandwich complexes. In contrast, the presence of Li+, Mg2+, and Ca2+ causes a (partial) extraction of EB from the membrane via the formation of “belted” 1:1-EB:Mz+ complexes, which screen the cationic charge less efficiently. Our results point to a relevance of the cation dependence for the transport into the malignant cells where the mitochondriotoxic anticancer activity is exerted.
Fermented milk products and functional nutrition in children
Authors: Belmer Sergey V. , Kovtun Tatiana A.
Published: February 2024

Even in ancient times, people noticed that sour milk could be not just a food or a way of storing it for a certain period; in some cases, it is a healing drink. Currently, many microorganisms, mainly lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, are used to produce fermented milk products (FMP). Most of the microorganisms have probiotic properties. Also, additional probiotic strains are often introduced into these products, significantly increasing their nutritional, prophylactic and therapeutic value. In addition, prebiotics, most often oligofructose and inulin, can be included in the FMP. Yogurts are widely consumed throughout the world. They are prepared by fermenting milk using Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. Their properties have been well-studied for more than 100 years. The fermentation results in a thick product with an extended shelf life.
Yogurt is a rich source of calcium in bioavailable form and a good source of phosphorus, potassium, vitamins A, B2 and B12. It contains proteins of high biological value and essential fatty acids. FMPs improve lactose cleavage, have an anti-atherogenic effect, reduce blood cholesterol, increase bone density, and have many other favourable properties for the human body. FMPs, particularly yogurts, can be entirely attributed to functional foods and are good for children and adults.
Products intended for children must meet special requirements considering the age-related features of metabolic processes. Thus, probiotic FMPs, including yogurts, positively affect the health of a child and an adult, both healthy and in many diseases. Their regular consumption is advisable throughout a person's life.
Державна фінансова допомога: сутність, критерії ідентифікації, класифікація
Authors: Виговська Наталія Георгіївна , Цисар Олена Володимирівна
Published: February 2024

Стаття присвячена дослідженню сутності, критеріїв ідентифікації та класифікації державної фінансової допомоги. Зазначено, що різноманітність форм, видів, напрямів надання грантових коштів визначає необхідність уточнення теоретичних основ забезпечення державної фінансової підтримки суб’єктів господарювання, що актуалізує тему наукового дослідження. Метою статті є визначення поняття «державна фінансова допомога» на підставі оцінки наукових підходів до її трактування, вирізнення критеріїв  її ідентифікації та уточнення класифікаційних ознак її поділу для подальшого дослідження напрямів призначення та надання. Дослідження наукової літератури щодо напрямів надання допомоги підприємствам надало можливість визначити «теоретичні прогалини» щодо її трактування, спричинені різним сприйняттям її змістовного наповнення. На підставі проведення термінологічного аналізу відмінностей між поняттями «грант», «державна фінансова підтримка», «державна фінансова допомога» було визначено таке: поняття «державна фінансова підтримка» за змістовним наповненням є ширшим поняттям, ніж «державна фінансова допомога», оскільки остання має відповідати низці критеріїв, визначених для державних заходів, які характеризують її сутність. У статті виокремлено критерії державного заходу, які ідентифікують його як державну фінансову допомогу: 1) наявність державних ресурсів; 2) наявність економічної вигоди (конкурентної переваги), яка виникає при передачі суб’єкту господарювання державних ресурсів; 3) вибірковість (селективність) допомоги на реалізацію заходу; 4) викривлення конкуренції внаслідок надання такої державної допомоги; 5) необхідність здійснення державного фінансового контролю. Щодо співвідношення понять «грант» або «грантова фінансова допомога» та «державна фінансова допомога» зроблено висновок, що грант – це сукупність фінансових та інших ресурсів, наданих на умовах безоплатного, безповоротного, цільового фінансування за рахунок різних джерел (коштів державного, місцевого бюджетів, міжнародної технічної допомоги) з метою реалізації певного заходу або інвестиційного проєкту. Водночас поняття «державної фінансової допомоги» є ширшим, оскільки містить різноманітні види, зокрема й грантову підтримку. Авторами уточнено класифікацію видів державної фінансової допомоги за різними ознаками, що сприятиме розширенню напрямів її призначення та надання, особливо в умовах воєнного часу й повоєнного відновлення.