bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production Optimization through Intelligent Wells in Steam Trapping in SAGD Operations
Authors: Temizel Cenk , Canbaz Celal Hakan , Palabiyik Yildiray , Irani Mazda , Balaji Karthik , Ranjith Rahul
Published: April 2019

Steam-assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) is one of the major thermal recovery methods for heavy oil. Optimization of SAGD is a delicate process that needs to be planned and operated in a detailed manner. Steam trapping is one of the methods that may help optimize production in SAGD by keeping the steam chamber well drained, where liquid does not accumulate on top of the producer and steam is not produced. This is a challenging process even with the advances in well completions with smart or intelligent wells. In this study, the use of smart valves (ICVs) are investigated and their use in optimization of SAGD through steam trapping is outlined.

A comprehensive review on steam trapping, in terms of theory and practice, has been provided. A smart well configuration with intelligent valves are built in a representative reservoir simulation model where the full-physics commercial reservoir simulator is coupled with an optimization/sensitivity software to optimize the processes and investigate the significance of the key control/decision and uncertainty variables. Different approaches are used in steam trap control; static location, dynamic scanning in time and location, and dynamic scanning in time and specified locations. The results are outlined along with practical aspects of the whole process and operation.

The results are outlined in a comparative way to illustrate the benefits of smart valves and the key points in utilizing them, including economic aspects of their use for additional recovery and the related costs. Results indicate that intelligent wells may prove useful in optimizing steam trapping in SAGD operations depending on the size of the prize.

There are several studies on steam trapping. However, there aren't many studies that integrate steam trap control with smart wells. This study investigates the theoretical and practical aspects of steam trapping using intelligent wells, along with outlining the key attributes, decision and uncertainty variables in a comparative way in terms of the steam trap control strategies and economics.
An Investigation into the Effect of Brine Salinity on Fines Migration in SAGD Operations
Authors: Haftani Mohammad , Wang Chenxi , Montero Pallares Jesus David , Mahmoudi Mahdi , Fattahpour Vahidoddin , Nouri Alireza
Published: April 2019

In Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) operations, condensed water dissolves the formation minerals and mixes with formation water, and its salinity changes over time. For the salinity levels below a critical salt concentration, brine reacts with the formation clays and affects their mobilization towards the production well. Migrated fine particles may plug the pore spaces around the well and reduce wellbore productivity. This paper aims to investigate the impact of water salinity on fines migration and permeability reduction.

A large-scale pre-packed Sand Retention Tests (SRT) facility was employed to simulate SAGD well conditions. Brine with different NaCl salt concentrations was injected into synthetic sand-pack samples that are representative of the McMurray Formation. Flow rates were varied during the test, and fines migration along the sand-pack was traced. Differential pressures along the sand pack were recorded to calculate the permeability changes during the test. Samples of produced water were collected immediately below the coupon to measure the fines concentration. Testing parameters such as pH, clay mineralogy, temperature, and sand control specifications were kept constant in all tests.

Fines concentration in the produced water during the test and retained permeability were considered as the indicators of the fines migration inside the sand-pack. Results of step-rate testing display a jump in fines concentration in produced water right after each flow rate increase. Besides, fines concentration results show that fines migration was insignificant when using brine with high salt concentrations. Fines migration was stronger for a relatively narrow salinity range with low NaCl concentrations, resulting in the highest pore plugging. The findings in this research are consistent with past studies which relate clay dispersion to the zeta potential of clay materials: the higher the zeta potential, the stronger the fines dispersion and migration.

Based on this study, it is recommended that the operating companies monitor the chemical properties of the produced water. Field operators could preserve the reservoir productivity by manipulating the formation salinities to lower the dispersion and detachment of fines and their migration towards the production well.
Characterizing of Ferric Ion interaction with Viscoelastic Surfactant VES-Based Acidizing Fluid
Authors: Afra Salar , Samouei Hamidreza , Nasr-El-Din Hisham A.
Published: April 2019

Viscoelastic surfactant (VES) have been successfully applied as acid-diversion fluids. However, high temperature, interaction of VES and Fe(III), addition of alcohol-based additives, and chelating agents all interfere with the apparent viscosity of the VES-based acid and reduce its efficiency. In the present study, the interactions of Fe(III) with a new type of VES-based acid system, which can be applied effectively for diversion at high temperatures, were characterized in a wide range of pH.

The physical behavior of the VES solutions after addition of iron at various pH values were observed visually to determine any change in the viscoelasticity of the solutions. In the present study, because of the similarity between chemical structures, 3-sulfopropyldimethyl-3-methacryl -amidopropylammonium (SMA) was used as a model compound of VES to characterize the nature of the interaction between VES and Fe(III). IR spectroscopy was employed to understand the nature of the SMA interactions with Fe(III) in different pH values. Also, UV-vis spectroscopy was conducted to determine stoichiometry of the interactions as well. Single X-ray crystallography was also utilized to further understand the nature of interaction between SMA and Fe(III).

Bottle test results show the formation of a viscoelastic gel at different pH in the presence of Fe(III)and VES. IR results express that the interaction of SMA and Fe(III) occurs through the amide group in the SMA which is existed in the headgroup of tested VES too. These results confirms previous observations that the interaction of amide part of the VES with Fe(III) results in screening the repulsion forces between surfactant head groups and formation of wormlike micelles that is the primary reason for increase in the viscosity. Results of continuous variation method on SMA and Fe(III) also confirm the 1:1 stoichiometry in their interaction which are in agreement with the results of our previous study on stoichiometry of VES and Fe(III) interaction.

The present paper is the first mechanistic attempt to characterize and understand the nature of a VES-based system interaction with Fe(III) by using a model compound that has the same headgroup as tested VES. The findings of the present study can be utilized to further investigations of the effects of additives on the performance of VES- based systems.
CO2-EOR and Carbon Storage in Indian Oilfields: From Laboratory Study to Pilot Design
Authors: Chen Peila , Selveindran Anand , Kumar Chandan , Saloma Yomdo , Bose Sushanta , Balasubramanian Sriram , Thakur Ganesh
Published: April 2019

This work summarizes the prospect of EOR and sequestration using CO2 flooding from an Indian mature oil field in Assam through laboratory study, reservoir static modeling, dynamic simulation, pilot design, and techno-economic sensitivity studies. The geomodel was established by incorporating of contour maps, well positions and coordinates, well data and well logs, perforation depths and distribution of petrophysical properties as well as fluid properties.

It was confirmed through PVT laboratory studies that CO2 injection can achieve the miscibility under reservoir conditions. The coreflooding test showed the significant incremental oil recovery by continuous CO2 injection and the residual oil saturation after miscible CO2 injection reached ~0.13PV.

A fine scale geological model was built for entire reservoir and dynamic simulation work was performed on the geological model without upscaling. The history match of 51-year field production and pressure data in the whole reservoir was completed in a commercial simulator, and various development scenarios were investigated. Based on the results from CO2 EOR simulation study, we identified a pilot pattern area of ~ 60 acres with one injector and four producers. The CO2 was injected into reservoir at 150 metric ton per day for 5 years and cumulative injection volume is 15.4 BCF. Then the well is switched back to water injection afterward. Around 1 million STB incremental oil recovery was obtained in about 10 years, which corresponds to 11% of original oil in place in the flooded area.

The CO2 utilization ratio is approximately 6 MCF/BBL. It is expected that CO2 flooding yields a pre-tax net cash flow of US dollars of 9.4 MM. CO2-EOR and storage in this mature field has a great techno-economic prospect.

The investigation of CCUS opportunity and the substantial advancement in CO2 flood pilot design project have created an excitement in Indian Oil& Gas industry since the CCUS can significantly improve the domestic oil production from mature oilfields, and also reduce the carbon footprint in India. The volume of anthropogenic CO2 injection and storage in the reservoirs presents the great social and economic benefits for CCUS in India.
Molecular monitoring of Plasmodium falciparum resistance to sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine in western Kenya, 14 years after its withdrawal
Authors: kishoyian gabriel Manyara , Njagi Eliud N.M. , Orinda George O. , Kimani Francis T. , Thiongo Kevin , Matoke Damaris
Published: April 2019

Background:
The application of chloroquine (CQ) as an antimalarial drug for over half a century and subsequent development of CQ-resistant Plasmodium strains has led to its withdrawal and replacement with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP). In 2004, SP was replaced with artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) as a first-line against uncomplicated malaria in Kenya. The sudden surge in ACT resistant against P. falciparum in Cambodia and neighboring countries had become a stumbling block in the management and control of this preventable and curable disease. The resistance associated with P. falciparum is linked to multiple mutations in the parasite’s dihydrofolate reductase and dihydropteroate synthase genes. This study assesses the prevalence of pfdhfr and pfdhps gene mutation which encodes enzymes targeting SP.
Method:
Briefly, blood taken from a finger prick was collected on a filter paper from P. falciparum positive children attending health facility in Chulaimbo between May and November 2015. Using chelex-100 extraction DNA, genotyping was done for mutations on codon 51, 59 and 108 of pfdhr and 437 and 540 of pfdhps genes using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technology. The enzymes used to digest the respective codons were Tsp5091, Amxn I, Alu I, Ava II and Fok I respectively.
Results: All the 76 P. falciparum isolates were successfully genotyped for the detection of Pfdhfr and Pfdhps mutations associated with SP resistance. The P. falciparum isolates were found to carry the mutant type N51I with a prevalence of 94% while C59R and S108N had 92% each. The prevalence of mutation at Pfdhps codons A437G and K540E stood at 94% and 91% respectively.
Conclusion: The present study observed that there is no statistical significant on codon 51I and 437G (χ2 =3.3099 df=1 p >0.05) change in the proportion of resistant genotypes. However, there was a statistical significant on codon 59R and 108N (χ2 =4.338 df=1 p<0.05) and 540E (χ2 =5.391 df=1 p<0.05) indicating a slow but steady decreased resistance despite its withdrawal. In addition, the evidence of quintuple mutations that are likely to become fixed in the study population is threatening the future of SP especially in intermittent preventive treatment prophylaxis (IPTp) programs.
A case of successful intensive treatment of a child with a severe burn injury
Authors: Matskevich V. A. , Shukhat Yu. B. , Kolegova J. N. , Maximova O. L. , Vasilieva E. O. , Gritsan Alexey I.
Published: April 2019

In this article presented the positive clinical experience of treatment of a child with deep extensive burns up to 85 % of the body surface. It is proved that successful treatment of this patient is possible only in a multidisciplinary clinic with combination of active surgical tactics, balanced infusion-transfusion, adequate antibacterial and immuno-substitutive therapy, control of microbiome of wound secret and biological fluids, usage of the air fluidized bed, personified dressing tactics, suitable nutritional support, a complex of modern rehabilitation measures.
Postanesthesia disease — a menace for a cerebral puzzle. Comment on the article of S.F. Gritsuk “Structural and functional relationship of consciousness and the unconscious (anesthesia) in the focus of cognitive impairment”
Authors: Belkin Andrey A.
Published: April 2019

Postanesthesia disease — a menace for a cerebral puzzle. Comment on the article of S.F. Gritsuk “Structural and functional relationship of consciousness and the unconscious (anesthesia) in the focus of cognitive impairment”
Comment on the article of S.F. Gritsuk “Structural and functional relationship of consciousness and the unconscious (anesthesia) in the focus of cognitive impairment”
Authors: Lubnin Andrey
Published: April 2019

Comment on the article of S.F. Gritsuk “Structural and functional relationship of consciousness and the unconscious (anesthesia) in the focus of cognitive impairment”
Perioperative nutrition support for gastric cancer surgery. Comment on the article “Perioperative nutritional support. Russian Federation of anesthesiologists and reanimatologists guidelines”
Authors: Potapov Aleksandr L.
Published: April 2019

A review of current scientific data related to providing of nutrition support in patients with gastric cancer has been presented. The focus on guidelines of ESPEN (2017) and RFA (2018) has been done. Practical implementation of these guidelines will improve the quality of patients treatment operated for gastric cancer.
Equilibrium fluctuations in maximally noisy extended quantum systems
Authors: Bauer Michel , Bernard Denis , Jin Tony
Published: April 2019

We introduce and study a class of models of free fermions hopping
between neighbouring sites with random Brownian amplitudes. These simple
models describe stochastic, diffusive, quantum, unitary dynamics. We
focus on periodic boundary conditions and derive the complete stationary
distribution of the system. It is proven that the generating function of
the latter is provided by an integral with respect to the unitary Haar
measure, known as the Harish-Chandra-Itzykson-Zuber integral in random
matrix theory, which allows us to access all fluctuations of the system
state. The steady state is characterized by non trivial correlations
which have a topological nature. Diagrammatic tools appropriate for the
study of these correlations are presented. In the thermodynamic large
system size limit, the system approaches a non random, self averaging,
equilibrium state plus occupancy and coherence fluctuations of magnitude
scaling proportionally with the inverse of the square root of the
volume. The large deviation function for those fluctuations is
determined. Although decoherence is effective on the mean steady state,
we observe that sub-leading fluctuating coherences are dynamically
produced from the inhomogeneities of the initial occupancy profile.
Executive compensation and firm performance: a non-linear relationship
Authors: Rasoava Rijamampianina
Published: April 2019

In order to ensure profitability for shareholders, optimal contracting recommends the alignment between executive compensation and company performance. Large organizations have therefore adopted executives remuneration systems in order to induce positive market reaction and motivate executives. Complex compensation schemes are designed by Boards of Directors using strong pay-performance incentives that explain high levels of executive pay along with company size, demand for management skills and executive influence. However, the literature remains inconclusive on the pay-performance relationship owing to the various empirical methods used by researchers. Additionally, there has been little effort in the literature to compare methodologies on the pay-performance relationship. Using the dominant agency theory framework, the purpose of this study is to establish and examine the relationship between firm performance and executive pay. In addition, it intends to assess the characteristic of model specifications commonly adopted. To this aim, a quantitative analysis consisting of three complementary methods was performed on panel data from South African listed companies. The results of the main unrestricted first difference model indicate a strong non-linear relationship where the impact of current and previous firm performance on executive pay can be observed over 2 to 4-year period providing support to the optimal contracting theoretical perspective in the South African business context. In addition, CEO pay is more sensitive to firm performance as compared to Director pay. Lastly, although it affects executive pay levels, company size is not found to improve the pay-performance relationship.
EVALUASI SISTEM INFORMASI PERSEDIAAN PADA PT SUMBER MANDIRI
Authors: Suryanto Suryanto , Gondodiyoto Sanyoto , Ristianto Ristianto , Herny Herny , Nathalia Devi
Published: April 2019

Inventory is a resource that is stored for the production process or for the sale of a business process. The purpose of this paper is to study and analyze current procedures and business in the information system implemented in the company’s inventory, measure the effectiveness and efficiency of inventory control information system that is applied, knowing the strengths and weaknesses in the implementation of information systems inventory by the company, so it can provide recommendations and suggestions for improving the existing weaknesses. The method used in preparing this paper the writer is literature study, observation, interviewing relevant parties, check list, application testing, and documentation study. Observations collected will be analyzed, evaluated and compared with the theory of internal control. Based on the results of evaluation writers, inventory information system procedures performed PT Sumber Mandiri was good enough, although there are still some weaknesses. In this case the company should fix these weaknesses to improve operations and performance.Keywords: evaluation, information systems inventory, general control, application control
Factors Influencing the Intention of Attending Theater Performances: Exploration Study
Authors: Abdinagoro Sri Bramantoro
Published: April 2019

The phenomenon of theater goers who are not satisfied when watching but at the next show they were still watching, being the opposite of the concept of satisfaction. This research aimed to find the factors that caused people to intend to watch the theater again to answer the phenomenon. The researcher used an exploratory study that focused on exploring important features in the theater performing arts on those who had been watching and who had not watched. In this study, author constructed semi-structured interview questionnaires that were focused on; (1) reason for people watching the theater, (2) theatrical attributes, (3) audience expectation, and (4) audience development. The participants of the exploratory study in this study were; (1) a group of actors and performing arts workers, (2) people who watched the performing arts, and (3) people who did not watch the performing arts. The total participants were 15 persons. From the exploration results with at least 16 keywords or phrases obtained, the researcher analyzes and classifies the keywords and phrases with the same meaning and understanding that exist in each word. There are 8 (eight) constructs formed based on these keyword groupings; theater play, theater reputation, goal achievement, theater atmosphere, satisfaction, flow, intention to watch again, and word of mouth. The results of this exploratory study at the next stage of the research will be the input of the research model.
MAPEAMENTO DA PRODUÇÃO CIENTÍFICA SOBRE A VULNERABILIDADE EM SISTEMAS AUTOMOTIVOS
Authors: Zancanaro Airton , Tavares Andrea Letícia
Published: April 2019

O aperfeiçoamento da tecnologia automotiva e o começo da Internet das coisas (IoT) trazem ao usuário facilidade e comodidade na dirigibilidade, na frenagem, na durabi-lidade e na segurança. No entanto, a “conectividade” demandada está sujeita a ciberataques. O artigo visa a identificar publicações, grupos de pesquisa, pesquisadores e instituições que investem em pesquisas associadas ao tema, por meio de um mapeamento bibliométrico. Foram identificados 63 trabalhos, sendo 40 artigos publicados em conferências, 21 em revistas científicas e 2 capítulos de livros. O artigo procura sistematizar as informações contidas nos trabalhos analisados, com o intuito de auxiliar os pesquisadores interessados no assunto a avançar com suas pesquisas.
Monitoring, isolation and characterization of Microthrix parvicella strains from a Chinese wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Fan Niansi , Yang Min , Rossetti Simona , Levantesi Caterina , Qi Rong
Published: April 2019

Microthrix parvicella is a filamentous bacterium that frequently causes severe bulking events in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) worldwide. In this study, sludge properties and dynamics of filamentous bacteria in a Beijing WWTP seasonally suffering from M. parvicella bulking were continuously monitored over a duration of 15 months, and the correlations between M. parvicella and operating parameters were evaluated. The predominance of M. parvicella was observed at low temperatures (14–18.8 °C) with the relative abundance of around 30% (estimated by both qPCR and FISH analysis). Using micromanipulation technology, 545 filaments of M. parvicella were micromanipulated from bulking sludge (SVI > 180 mL g−1) on six different media. After 3-month purification and enrichment, six strains, phylogenetically closely related to Candidatus Microthrix parvicella, were successfully acquired on R2A medium (20 °C) in pure cultures. Considering the limitation and extremely slow growth rate of M. parvicella filaments, newly isolated strains represent valuable sources for further investigations on the physiology and behavior of this filamentous bacterium, with the focus on the establishment of bulking control strategy.
Optimized anti-biofouling performance of bactericides/cellulose nanocrystals composites modified PVDF ultrafiltration membrane for micro-polluted source water purification
Authors: Zhang Guoquan , Lv Jinling , Yang Fenglin
Published: April 2019

The covalently functionalized cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) composites were synthesized by bonding common bactericides, such as dodecyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (DDBAC), ZnO and graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets, onto the CNC's surface. Then, the DDBAC/CNC, ZnO/CNC and GO/CNC nanocomposites modified polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) ultrafiltration membranes were fabricated by a simple one-step non-solvent induced phase separation (NIPS) process. The resultant hybrid membranes possessed porous and rough surfaces with more finger-like macropores that even extended through the entire cross-section. The hydrophilicity, permeability, antibacterial and antifouling performance and mechanism of the hybrid ultrafiltration membranes were evaluated and compared in detail, aiming at screening a superior hybrid membrane for practical application in micro-polluted source water purification. Among these newly-developed hybrid membranes, GO/CNC/PVDF exhibited an enhanced perm-selectivity with a water flux of 230 L/(m2 h bar) and humic acid rejection of 92%, the improved antibacterial activity (bacteriostasis rate of 93%) and antifouling performance (flux recovery rate (FRR) of >90%) being due to the optimized pore structure, higher surface roughness, incremental hydrophilicity and electronegativity. A lower biofouling level after three weeks' filtration of the actual micro-polluted source water further demonstrated that embedding the hydrophilic and antibacterial GO/CNC nanocomposite into the polymer matrix is an effective strategy to improve membrane anti-biofouling ability.
Impact of the consequences of the genocide in Darfur on its victims and the level of condemnation of the crime
Authors: Sharafian Narek Gagikovich
Published: April 2019

Genocide in Darfur is one of the most terrible crimes committed against humanity in the 21st century, that forced approximately one-third of the population of the territory to leave their homes and move to refugee camps. The author states, that the consequences were disastrous both for Darfur and its victims. The article renders main consequences of the catastrophic crime against the people of Darfur, analyzes drawbacks of Sudan juridical system and the level of condemnation of the crime.
Compulsive shopping as a private variant of behavioral addiction. The current state of the problem
Authors: Antsyborov Andrey Viktorovich , Dubatova Irina Vladimirovna
Published: April 2019

Compulsive shopping, or compulsive buying disorders (CBD in English-language literature) is characterized by excessive, unnecessary spending, also known stereotypical «consumer behavior», which entails the development of various emotional disturbances and economic problems. The prevalence of disorder varies widely among countries and depends on socio-economic and cultural factors. Scattered data for Russia does not allow to reliably estimate the scale of the problem. Comorbidity of compulsive shopping is associated with various mental disorders: affective disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, eating disorders, and other pathology of impulse control. The generality of the pathogenetic mechanisms, the clinical picture, the treatment approaches makes it possible to attribute compulsive shopping to one of the variants of non-chemical dependence.
Mergers and acquisitions as effective business growth strategies
Authors: Panfilova Elena Evgenevna , Nilova Aleksandra Alekseevna
Published: April 2019

The paper analyzes the prerequisites for the effective conduct of mergers and acquisitions in order to increase business profitability. Key concepts (market and resource) have been identified that allow the firm to form sustainable competitive advantages in the long term.
Gentianella turkestanerum Showed Protective Effects on Hepatic Injury by Modulating the Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yang Jianhua , Zhu Dandan , Wen Limei , Xiang Xueying , Hu Junping
Published: April 2019

Objective:

To investigate the protective effects of Gentianella turkestanerum extraction by butanol (designated as GBA) on hepatic cell line L02 injury induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).

Methods:

L02 cells were incubated with 5 µg/mL, 10 µg/mL, 20 µg/mL, 40 µg/mL, 60 µg/mL, 80 µg/mL and 100 µg/mL GBA for 24 hours, and then MTT assay was used to screen the cytotoxicity for GBA. Cells were divided into blank control group, CCl4/H2O2 model group, treated by CCl4 (20 mmol/L) or H2O2 (100 µmol/L); silymarin+CCl4/H2O2 group, treated by CCl4 (20 mmol/L) or H2O2 (100 µmol/L) and 5 µg/mL silymarin; GBA+CCl4/H2O2 group, treated by CCl4 (20 mmol/L) or H2O2 (100 µmol/L) and GBA (5 µg/mL, 10 µg/mL and 20 µg/mL). MTT assay was performed to determine the cellular activity. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content was determined using a commercial kit. The alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) in the supernatant was determined. PE-Annexin V/7-ADD method was utilized to determine the apoptosis of cells. RT-PCR was used to evaluate the expression of endoplasmic reticulum stressrelated genes (CHOP, PERK, IRE1 and ATF6) mRNA. Western blot analysis was performed to determine the expression of CHOP, Caspase 12 and NF-κB protein.

Results:

Cellular survival after GBA (5 µg/mL, 10 µg/mL and 20 µg/mL) incubation was ≥ 75%. After GBA incubation, levels of ALT and AST showed a significant decrease (P < 0.05), while that of the MDA showed a significant decrease (P < 0.05). The apoptosis in the CCl4 or H2O2 group showed a significant increase compared to the control group (P < 0.05). In contrast, GBA-preincubation could attenuate the cellular apoptosis compared to the CCl4 or H2O2 group, which displayed a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). The expression of CHOP, PERK, IRE1 and ATF6 mRNA was significantly up-regulated in the presence of CCl4 or H2O2 (P < 0.05). Whereas, GBA induced a significant decrease in these mRNA thereafter (P < 0.05), together with a decrease in CHOP and Caspase 12 proteins (P < 0.05). Besides, it could attenuate the expression of NF-κB p65 in nuclear protein.

Conclusions:

G. turkestanerum could inhibit the lipid peroxidation and increase the antioxidant activity. Also, it could inhibit the cellular apoptosis through down-regulating the transcriptional level of ERS related genes and proteins. This process was associated with the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 protein.
Renovascular Hypertension: Novel Insights
Authors: Boutari Chrysoula , Georgianou Eleni , Sachinidis Alexandros , Katsimardou Alexandra , Christou Konstantinos , Piperidou Alexia , Karagiannis Asterios
Published: April 2019

Renovascular hypertension (RVH) remains among the most prevalent and important, but also potentially reversible, causes of secondary hypertension. The predominant causes of renal artery stenosis (RAS) are atherosclerotic renovascular arterial stenosis (ARAS) and renal fibromuscular dysplasia. This condition can lead to progressive renal injury, cardiovascular complications and ‘flash pulmonary edema’. Duplex Doppler ultrasonography, computed tomographic angiography and magnetic resonance angiography are the most commonly used diagnostic methods. There are three therapeutic options available: medical therapy including renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system antagonists, lipid-lowering agents, and antiplatelet therapy, percutaneous angioplasty with or without stent placement and surgical revascularization. Three large trials failed to demonstrate the superiority of renal artery revascularization over pharmaceutical therapy in controlling blood pressure and preserving renal function. For this reason, today revascularization is only recommended for patients with progressive worsening of renal function, recurrent ‘flash pulmonary edema’ and rapid increase in antihypertensive requirement in patients with previously well-controlled hypertension. However, more properly designed trials are needed in order to identify which patient populations would probably benefit from renal revascularization.
Secondary Hypertension: Novel Insights
Authors: Tziomalos Konstantinos
Published: April 2019

It is estimated that 5-10% of hypertensive patients have secondary hypertension. The main causes of secondary
hypertension are parenchymal renal disease, primary aldosteronism and renovascular hypertension. The identification of
these patients is important because it enables the etiological management of the underlying disease and in some cases
leads to blood pressure control without antihypertensive medications. On the other hand, diagnostic evaluation for secondary
hypertension often includes complex and expensive tests and should be performed only in patients with a strong
clinical suspicion for its presence. If preliminary screening tests suggest the presence of secondary hypertension, these patients
should be referred to specialized centers for further diagnostic evaluation and comprehensive management.
An Easy Efficient Method of Veterinary Drug Residue Analysis in Raw Milk by RP-HPLC-UV with Application to Raw Milk
Authors: Legrae Lekweiri Haiba , Deida Mohamed Fadel , Abdellahi Bah Mohamed Lemine , Elkory Mohamed Brahim , Ndiaye Ibrahima , Bouajila Jalloul
Published: April 2019

Background:

This study reports an easy method of a veterinary drug investigation in raw milk, based on QuECHERS extraction followed by RP-HPLC-UV analysis. Use of this benchtop system was motivated by its availability and moderate cost relatively to other sophisticated methods such as LC-MS which are more efficient.

Methods:

This developed method has been optimized and then after validation according to EU legislation, it demonstrated good linearity with R²>0.997, acceptable peak resolution within a short time (<9.5 min) and good recovery of the analyzed drugs (OXY, ALZ and IVR, respectively 87.08, 99.02 and 92.01 %). Additionally, we applied the method to the analysis of cow milk, collected in Nouakchott, capital of Mauritania.

Results:

The obtained results indicated a mixed level of drug use according to targeted molecules. In 42% of sampled farms, the anti-parasitics IVR and ALZ were detected whereas the antibiotic OXY was detected in 50%.

Conclusion:

This investigation shows that 17% of the sampled farms exceeded European standards for IVR drug.
Determination of Loratadine and Its Active Metabolite in Plasma by LC/MS/MS: An Adapted Method for Children
Authors: Li Qian , Shi Hai-Yan , Wang Kai , Kan Min , Zheng Yi , Hao Guo-Xiang , Yang Xin-Mei , Yang Yi-Lei , Su Le-Qun , Zhao Wei
Published: April 2019

Introduction:

Loratadine (LOR) (Fig. 1), an active H1 receptor antagonist, is often used in
the treatment of allergic disorders such as seasonal allergies and skin rash [1]. LOR was clinically approved
for symptomatic relief of nasal and non-nasal symptoms of allergic rhinitis in children ≥2years.

Materials and Methods:

An adapted method of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry
(LC/MS/MS) was developed and validated to measure the concentrations of loratadine (LOR) and its
active metabolite descarboethoxyloratadine (DCL) from pediatric plasma. After being mixed with the
internal standard (IS, propranolol) and precipitated with methanol, samples were centrifuged and 20 μL
of the supernatants were injected into the HPLC system. Separation was carried out on a reversed-phase
C18 gradient column using a mobile phase consisting of water (containing 0.1 % formic acid) and acetonitrile.
The flow rate was 0.5 mL/min and the running time was 5.0 min for each sample.

Results and Conclusion:

Quantitation of LOR, DCL and IS was performed using MRM mode and the
transitions were: 383.1 → 337.1 for LOR, 311.1 → 259.0 for DCL and 260.2 → 116.0 for propranolol,
respectively. The method was validated according to FDA guidelines, precisions and accuracies met the
requirements in all cases. Calibration curves were 0.2–50.0 ng/mL for both LOR and DCL. This method
was then applied for a pilot study examining the pharmacokinetics and therapeutic drug monitoring of
LOR in children.
A Micro-Aggregation Algorithm Based on Density Partition Method for Anonymizing Biomedical Data
Authors: Wu Xiang , Wei Yuyang , Jiang Tao , Wang Yu , Jiang Shuguang
Published: April 2019

Objective:

Biomedical data can be de-identified via micro-aggregation achieving
privacy. However, the existing micro-aggregation algorithms result in low similarity
within the equivalence classes, and thus, produce low-utility anonymous data when dealing with
a sparse biomedical dataset. To balance data utility and anonymity, we develop a novel microaggregation
framework.

Methods:

Combining a density-based clustering method and classical micro-aggregation algorithm,
we propose a density-based second division micro-aggregation framework called DBTP .
The framework allows the anonymous sets to achieve the optimal k- partition with an increased
homogeneity of the tuples in the equivalence class. Based on the proposed framework, we propose
a k − anonymity algorithm DBTP − MDAV and an l − diversity algorithm DBTP − l − MDAV to
respond to different attacks.

Conclusion:

Experiments on real-life biomedical datasets confirm that the anonymous algorithms
under the framework developed in this paper are superior to the existing algorithms for achieving
high utility.
LHRH Targeted Chonderosomes of Mitomycin C in Breast Cancer: An In Vitro/ In Vivo Study
Authors: Varshosaz Jaleh , Sarrami Nasim , Aghaei Mahmoud , Aliomrani Mehdi , Azizi Reza
Published: April 2019

Background:

Mitomycin C (MMC) is an anti-cancer drug used for the treatment of breast cancer
with limited therapeutic index, extreme gastric adverse effects and bone marrow suppression. The purpose of the
present study was the preparation of a dual-targeted delivery system of MMC for targeting CD44 and LHRH
overexpressed receptors of breast cancer.

Methods:

MMC loaded LHRH targeted chonderosome was prepared by precipitation method and was characterized
for their physicochemical properties. Cell cycle arrest and cytotoxicity tests were studied on cell lines of
MCF-7, MDA-MB231 and 4T1 (as CD44 and LHRH positive cells) and BT-474 cell line (as CD44 negative
receptor cells). The in vivo histopathology and antitumor activity of MMC-loaded chonderosomes were compared
with free MMC in 4T1 cells inducing breast cancer in Balb-c mice.

Results:

MMC loaded LHRH targeted chonderosomes caused 3.3 and 5.5 fold more cytotoxicity on MCF-7 and
4T1 cells than free MMC at concentrations of 100μM and 10μM, respectively. However, on BT-474 cells the
difference was insignificant. The cell cycle test showed no change for MMC mechanism of action when it was
loaded in chonderosomes compared to free MMC. The in vivo antitumor studies showed that MMC loaded LHRH
targeted chonderosomes were 6.5 fold more effective in the reduction of tumor volume than free MMC with the
most severe necrosis compared to non-targeted chonderosomes in pathological studies on harvested tumors.

Conclusion:

The developed MMC loaded LHRH targeted chonderosomes were more effective in tumor growth
suppression and may be promising for targeted delivery of MMC in breast cancer.
Effects of Exercise and Bioprocessed Soybean Meal Diets during Rainbow Trout Rearing
Authors: Voorhees Jill M. , Barnes Michael E. , Chipps Steven R. , Brown Michael L.
Published: April 2019

Background:

Alternative protein sources to fishmeal in fish feeds are needed.

Objectives:

Evaluate rearing performance of adult rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) (initial weight 139.0 ±1.5 g, length 232.9 ± 0.8 mm, mean ± SE) fed one of the two isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets (46% protein, 16% lipid) and reared at one of the two levels of exercise (water velocities of either 3.6 cm/s or 33.2 cm/s).

Methods:

Protein in the control diet was based on fishmeal. In the experimental diet, bioprocessed soybean meal replaced approximately 60% of the fishmeal. Fish were fed by hand once-per-day to near satiation, and the food was increased daily. The experiment lasted 90-days.

Results:

There were no significant differences in gain, percent gain, or specific growth rate between the dietary treatments. However, the amount of food fed and feed conversion ratio was significantly lower in the 60% bioprocessed soybean meal diet. Intestinal morphology, relative fin length, splenosomatic index, hepatosomatic index, and viscerosomatic index were not significantly different in the trout fed either diet. Fish reared at 3.6 cm/s had a significantly lower feed conversion ratio (1.02 ± 0.02) than fish reared at 33.2 cm/s (1.13 ± 0.02). However, there were no significant differences in gain, percent gain, specific growth rate, or percentage mortality in fish reared with or without exercise. No significant interactions were observed between diet and exercise (higher water velocity).

Conclusion:

Based on these results, at least 60% of the fishmeal in adult rainbow trout diets can be replaced by bioprocessed soybean meal, even if higher water velocities are used to exercise the fish.
Sculptured Surface Design and Implementation by Lofting Design Method Using Cross-sectional B-Spline Curves
Authors: Hamdan Wisam Kadhum , Abdulrazaq Mustafa Mohammed
Published: April 2019

هذا البحث يقدم استراتيجية لتصميم الاسطح بشكل عملي، تتم بوساطة استخدام طريقة المنحنيات المستعرضة. الاسطح التي تم دراستها تم تكوينها بوساطة سلسلة من الشرائح المتعاقبة المكونة للشكل. فضلا عن توصيف طريقة تعريف ونمذجة النقاط باستخدام تطبيقات الهندسة العكسية باستخدام مكائن قياس الاحداثيات. تم تنفيذ نموذجين من مادة (Ureol) لتمثيل الحالات المختلفة لمنحنيات الـ B-spline لإيضاح مجال التطبيق الملائم لها. البيانات المطلوبة تم تصميمها بوساطة برنامج الـ MATLAB ثم تم نقلها الى برنامج الـ UG-NX9 لغرض ربط المنحنيات وتكوين السطوح والحصول على برامج الـ G-code الخاصة بالنماذج. كذلك تم عمل محاكاة افتراضية باستخدام برنامج الـ VERICUT لا ظهار الاخطاء المزامنة لعملية التشغيل. تم تنفيذ النماذج على ماكنة تفريز لثلاثة محاور نوع (Isel). في نهاية هذه الاجراءات تم قياس النماذج باستخدام ماكنة قياس الاحداثيات (Faro Arm CMM)، وجد ان قيمة معدل الخطأ (0.0589) لنموذج المنحنيات المستعرضة باستخدام نوع الـ B-spline المنتظم، و(0.1337) لنموذج المنحنيات المستعرضة باستخدام الـ B-spline غير المنتظم. يمكن الاستنتاج ان خطوات البرنامج المقترح التي تم بناؤها يمكن برمجتها في برنامج تصميمي واحد من هذا يمكننا تنفيذ اي سطح في أقصر وقت تصميمي.
Cellulose Fibers Dissolution in Alkaline Solution
Authors: Mahdi Yasmeen Salih , Mohammed Asem Hassan , Mohammed Alaa Kareem
Published: April 2019

In this study, NaOH dissolution method was applied to dissolve cellulose fibers which extracted from date palm fronds (type Al-Zahdi) taken from Iraqi gardens. In this process, (NaOH)-solution is brought into contact with the cellulose fibers at low temperature. Experiments were conducted with different concentrations of NaOH (4%, 6%, 8% and12%) weight percent at two cooling bath temperatures (-15 oC) and (-20oC). Maximum cellulose dissolution was 23 wt% which obtained at 8 wt% concentration of NaOH and at cooling bath temperature of -20oC. In order to enhance the cellulose fibers dissolution, the sample was pretreated with Fenton's reagent which consists of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), oxalic acid (C2H2O4) and ferrous sulfate (FeSO4). This reagent reacts with cellulose fibers and produces free radicals which increase cellulose dissolution. In this work three variables were studied: cooling bath temperature (-15oCand-20oC), NaOH concentration (4%, 6%, 8% and12%) and time of Fenton's reagent treatment (1-48) hrs. The results showed that the best percent of cellulose dissolution was (42 wt %) which occurred at treatment time (24 hours), temperature (-20oC) and NaOH concentration 8%. In another set of experiments urea was added to NaOH solution as a catalyst with proportion (6%NaOH+4% urea) at two temperatures -15 and -20 oC. The results show that the solubility of cellulose increase to 62% for the sample which treated with Fenton's reagent and to 35% for the untreated sample, both values were obtained at -15oC.
Creeping Gait Analysis and Simulation of a Quadruped Robot
Authors: Raheem Firas A. , Flayyih Murtadha Khudhair
Published: April 2019

A quadruped (four-legged) robot locomotion has the potential ability for using in different applications such as walking over soft and rough terrains and to grantee the mobility and flexibility. In general, quadruped robots have three main periodic gaits:  creeping gait, running gait and galloping gait. The main problem of the quadruped robot during walking is the needing to be statically stable for slow gaits such as creeping gait. The statically stable walking as a condition depends on the stability margins that calculated particularly for this gait. In this paper, the creeping gait sequence analysis of each leg step during the swing and fixed phases has been carried out. The calculation of the minimum stability margins depends upon the forward and inverse kinematic models for each 3-DOF leg and depends on vertical geometrical projection during walking. Simulation and results verify the stability insurance after calculation the minimum margins which indicate clearly the robot COG (Center of Gravity) inside the supporting polygon resulted from the leg-tips.
O SIGNIFICADO DO TRABALHO PARA JOVENS APRENDIZES
Authors: Graebin Rosani Elisabete , Matte Juliana , Larentis Fabiano , Da Motta Marta Elisete Ventura , Olea Pelayo Munhoz
Published: April 2019

As constantes transformações no mundo do trabalho, tanto materiais quanto subjetivas, promovem necessidades de buscar novas compreensões a respeito do trabalho, seu sentido e significado. As relações entre jovens e trabalho, suas condições de vida e as oportunidades de desenvolvimento que lhes são oferecidas apresentam-se como fatores que contribuem para a busca dessa compreensão. O objetivo do presente estudo é compreender o significado do trabalho para jovens que estão ingressando no mercado de trabalho por meio do contrato profissional de aprendizagem no Centro de Integração Empresa Escola – CIEE, unidade operacional de Caxias do Sul - RS. A pesquisa é caracterizada por uma abordagem qualitativa, através de entrevistas individuais com 50 jovens que participam do programa Jovem Aprendiz. Os resultados demonstram que a construção do significado do trabalho envolve experiência, conhecimento, dinheiro e realização. Fatores de criatividade, como autonomia, liberdade de trabalho, flexibilidade e reconhecimento não se mostraram relevantes, indicando que, mais importante do que o ambiente de trabalho em si é o que ele proporciona como fator social.
Formas particulares de narrar: como os livros e os filmes da série Harry Potter contribuem para criar uma representação do jornalismo na franquia
Authors: Sanseverino Gabriela Gruszynski
Published: April 2019

Este artigo busca pensar, através da revisão bibliográfica e documental, o processo de adaptação dos livros da série Harry Potter, criados por J.K. Rowling, para os filmes lançados pelos estúdios Warner Bros. Considerando que cada plataforma tem uma forma particular de narrar, refletiremos sobre como os sete livros de Harry Potter e os oito filmes da série contribuem para criarem uma  representação  do jornalismo na franquia, ponderando as capacidades próprias das duas plataformas, através da análise das aparições da profissão nas duas mídias. Entende-se que livros e filmes exploram a potencialidade própria do seu meio para criar o jornalismo na franquia de Harry Potter, cada meio contribuindo para criar uma representação do jornalismo nesse enredo ficcional.Palavras-chave: Harry Potter. Adaptação. Livro. Filme. Representação. Jornalismo.
Experiência estética e cotidianidade na videoinstalação Versus de Tadeu Jungle
Authors: Damião Luana Caroline
Published: April 2019

O presente artigo pretende compreender a videoinstalação Versus do artista multimidiático Tadeu Jungle a partir de premissas da experiência estética pautada em aspectos de inserção cotidiana. Para tal, partimos de reflexões conceituais de José Luiz Braga e Denilson Lopes ao introduzir a experiência estética em parâmetros de cotidianidade e afetividade, além de Hans Ulrich Gumbrecht, que aborda a beleza atlética e as rupturas reflexivas causadas pelos momentos de experiência.Palavras-chave: Futebol. Experiência estética. Cotidianidade. Afetividade. Museu do Futebol.