bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimising the CO2 Storage Potential in Deep Saline Aquifer by Creating Pressure Sink
Authors: Razali Nur Myra Rahayu , Khanifar Ahmad , Das Debasis P , Yakup M Hamzi , Majidaie Saeed
Published: February 2024

Malaysia has pledged to reduce the intensity of Green House Gas (GHG) emission by 45% based on Gross Production Product (GDP) in 2030 and ultimately net-zero carbon emission in 2050 during UNFCCC-COP 26 in Scotland. However, the growing energy demands need some of the high contaminant (CO2) natural gas fields in the region to be developed. To mitigate the negative climatic impact of such developments and manage the huge quantities of produced CO2, Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is the only viable technology in the current world. In this paper, a multidisciplinary subsurface study is conducted to unlock the potential containment for CO2 storage and estimate the effective volume in deep saline aquifer.

A fit for purpose 3D geological model was built for K reservoir in Z field. A range of porosity was tabulated from well log data and permeability was estimated from available poro-perm cross plot. Then, a compositional dynamic model with appropriate CO2 storage features is established using CMG-GEM simulator. The initial formation pressure and temperature were estimated from available well tests, and PVT and SCAL data are considered from an analogue field. The base case model was initialized, and several scenarios were run to estimate the optimum effective CO2 storage capacity for injection period of 25 years.

The CO2 gas injection started on the January 2025 with 60 MMscf/d injection rate and maximum water withdrawal was set at 30 kbbl/d. The prediction ran until 2050. An effective CO2 storage capacity for non-voidage case is estimated at 4.9 Bscf for a commingled injector with no producer case. This contributed only 3% of the theoretical storage capacity that can be sequestered due to high pressure build-up in the reservoir. For voidage case, one injector and one producer (commingled) case predicted to effectively sequestered 80.13 Bscf, which is approximately 51% of the total theoretical storage capacity. The simulation was further optimized with two injector and one producer (commingled) case where a total of 95.44 Bscf gas is predicted to be sequestered in the reservoir. This contributed to the highest effective CO2 storage volume, approximately at 61% of the total theoretical storage capacity.

This study presents the feasibility and optimization of CO2 sequestration in saline aquifer zone for one of Malaysia pre-development fields that can be as part of forecasting the CO2 injectivity and behaviour in storage reservoir during containment. Based on the study outcomes, it was well understood that the small, restricted saline aquifers may not present the greatest avenue for sustainable and economic CO2 sequestration due to their limited size and the requirement of water production to create additional voidage/pressure sink. In such a scenario, extensive and open aquifer systems in the region may be analyzed for their containment integrity and effective storage capacities.
Full Rigless Cable Deployed ESP System-Truly Eliminate Dependence on a Rig for Installing and Retrieving ESP String
Authors: Zhao Mengpan , Li Qijun , Hong Yuandong , Zhu Lisha , Zhang Li , Lei Xing , Xue Fan , Dai Rui
Published: February 2024

Over the past decade, Nova Rigless ESP has been at the forefront of research and development in the field of rigless electrical submersible pump (ESP) solutions. The dedication to Rigless ESP Solution has earned significant acclaim within the industry, manifested through numerous achievements, such as a record-breaking operational run life of 10 years and an average increase of 2-3 times in ESP run life. Traditionally, the majority of applications have involved the conversion of existing ESP wells to the Wireline Deployed Rigless ESP systems.

However, in response to evolving market demands that emerged in 2018, operators expressed a need for solutions capable of transforming naturally flowing wells to ESP-assisted production without the use of a rig. In answer to this challenge, the team developed the Full Rigless Cable Deployed (FRCD) ESP system, a groundbreaking innovation in well intervention technology. Currently, the FRCD suite boasts three distinct configurations of wellhead equipment, each designed to accommodate a variety of operational scenarios and maximize adaptability.

This paper delves into the operational principles of the FRCD system, detailing its design, implementation process, and the value it offers. Furthermore, this paper will present a comprehensive case study that showcases a collaborative effort between operators and suppliers to successfully integrate the FRCD system into their well architecture. This case study will not only demonstrate the practicality and effectiveness of the FRCD system but also underscore the commitment to client-centered innovation and tailor-made solutions in the oil and gas industry.
Successful Application of Novel Low Density High Temperature Resistant Cement in Bohai Bay Steam Recovery Wells
Authors: Feng Ying tao , Tian Jin , Puspitasari Melinda , Zhang Hao , Cui Ce , Li Yi , Geng Li Jun , Han Dong Dong , Tang Yu Tong , Wang You Wei , Feng Qing Hao , Zhao Dong Hui , Zhao Hu , Yu Bin , Xiao Wei , Fang En lou , Dan Lian , Zhao Jun
Published: February 2024

In Bohai bay, heavy oil reserves account for 70% of the total proved oil reserves. Most extensive enhanced oil recovery technique is cyclic steam stimulation, which would poses significant challenges to cementing operation. Cement integrity under multi-cyclic steam stimulation limits conventional cement slurry systems, especially when the steam injection temperature is as high as 350 °C. Besides, leakage formation, shallow gas and acid corrosion also increased the complexity of the cementing jobs. A novel lightweight, high-temperature-resistant cement system had been developed in order to ensure long-term effective isolation of the layer when exposed to ultra-high temperature(350 °C) due to cyclic steam stimulation. This paper will describe the design and evaluation of cement slurry in details. With the novel cement system, cementing operation in steam recovery wells had been successfully carried out over 20 wells. CBL logging tests showed excellent bonding result. Advanced long-term zonal isolation for 3 years under constant steam injection had been achieved. This successful cement operation has great reference in the cementing industry.
Revisiting Production Outlook in a Mature Offshore Field: A Case Study on Exploring Opportunities to Increase Production Using Rigless Techniques
Authors: Devsali S. , Unial R. , Gunwant D.
Published: February 2024

Field Delta located 95 Km North West of the city of Mumbai is producing through 13 wellhead platforms through approximately 60 oil wells mostly operating on gas lift. The recent flowing gradient surveys recorded in the wells have indicated drop in liquid level thus resulting in de-optimized gas lift system. Many wells in the field have also ceased to flow due to liquid loading and gradual drop in liquid level below the last operating gas lift valves.

Recompleting the wells with smaller tubing sizes and Gas Lift Valves upto the bottom of the well using workover rig in offshore is cost intensive and time taking and may not be economically viable for all the wells. Therefore various revival strategies which do not require workover and can be used for extending the operating life of mature wells have been discussed in the paper through various case studies. These technologies provide a sustainable & reliable means to retrofit gas lift to reach the deepest point.

Methodology adopted to carry out the designing by matching the existing valve depths and possibility to go deeper considering the system limitation has been discussed in the paper with few examples. Simulation indicated that in 6 wells scope exists for enhancing production by replacing dummies at deeper depths with CVs with the available gas injection Pressure. 19 wells have been identified in which scope exists for deeper injection below current injection depth (last Gas Lift Mandrel) through rig-less applications like single point gas lift and rigless coiled tubing gas lift system below the packer.

A comparative analysis of different technologies to revive production from liquid loaded wells have been brought out in the paper through various case studies.
Rising Above Bitumen Challenges in Exploratory Wells, Mexico
Authors: Moncayo S.
Published: February 2024

The present paper showcases the solutions implemented to overcome the challenges of encountering bitumen while drilling exploration wells in Southern Mexico land fields.

Specifically, while drilling exploration well Actul 1 Exp, located between Tabasco and Veracruz province in Cuichapa Basin, Mexico South. Offset fields are Arroyo Blanco, Soldados and Rabasa at a range of 3 to 10 kms from the exploratory well separated by a major fault.
New-Generation Nuclear Magnetic ResonanceT1-T2 Logging–Derived Formation Evaluation in Jurassic Shale Oil Reservoirs of China
Authors: Zhou Cong , Wang Yue , Yan Wei He , Zhao Xian Ran , Wang Yu Hua , Wu Jin Long , Jiang Bao Yan , Qu Chang Wei , Yang Xue Feng
Published: February 2024

China is accelerating the exploration and development of tight sandstone and shale reservoirs in the Jurassic Lianggaoshan Formation for oil and gas. The formation evaluation is challenged by complex mineralogy, low porosity, and unknown formation water salinity. In addition, the operator needs a technique for underground fluid typing and sweet spot identification of the shale oil reservoir to optimize their development strategy.

We introduce a new method that uses nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) T1-T2 logging for the formation evaluation and underground fluid typing of the shale oil reservoir. The measurement of continuous 2D NMR T1-T2 logging enables the quantitative estimation of the bound and movable fluid volumes in the pores. The integration of wireline NMR, induced gamma ray spectroscopy, and borehole imaging provides insight into the potential sweet spot of the shale oil reservoir in the Jurassic Lianggaoshan Formation.

In a case study from tight sandstone and shale reservoirs in the Sichuan Basin, China, spectroscopy-derived mineralogy is calibrated by X-ray diffraction, which lowers the uncertainty in porosity and water saturation estimates from logs. An artificial intelligence methodology derived from the concept of blind source separation for extracting signals from 2D NMR T1-T2 measurements is proposed. Clay-bound water volume and porosity derived from cluster volumetric analysis of NMR T1-T2 match well with those from spectroscopy and core experiment results. The movable hydrocarbon saturation proves to be effective and robust in sweet spot identification.

We discuss an integration of NMR T1-T2 logging methods from a new-generation wireline NMR tool in the unconventional reservoir. This tool helps operators to understand the potential of their reservoirs. The shale oil sweet spots identified by the new method are encouraging to secure the gas and oil productions for operators.
Technical Challenges in the Development of Deepwater Subsea Multi-Functional Manifold System
Authors: Shi Lei
Published: February 2024

This paper introduces the technical challenges of the research and development of a subsea multi-function manifold system at 500m depth. According to the characteristics of the first engineering application of subsea multiphase flowmeter, subsea hydraulic gate valve, subsea connector and other products, will focus on the integrated design technology of control, distribution and monitoring system to manifold module, assembly integration and precision control technology of manifold system, manifold system test and full-cycle reliability risk analysis technology.
Evolution of Non-Routine Integrated Well Works for North Sabah
Authors: Rahim K. Zainul , Kasim M. , Liew T. , Ghaffar M. , Ling Y. M. , Hakimuddin M. , Zamir A. Abu
Published: February 2024

A description on the approach taken by the operating company to increase quantity and complexity of non-routine well intervention activities while maintaining cost effectiveness in an offshore mature brownfield asset in Sabah waters, which had been producing under another operator since 1979. Due to the age of the asset, the four producing oil fields in the asset have severe pressure depletion, relatively low production rates, organic and inorganic scales and sand production challenges to be overcome.

The operator first focused on improving well integrity management while simultaneously seeking to increase the company knowledge and experience on less complex well intervention activities before building up to more complex activities over a four-year period. The well integrity management strategy was optimised by implementing one comprehensive and one condition-based maintenance cycle conducted annually with corrective maintenance planned out in between the preventive maintenance activities. The operator conducted a comprehensive review on the production enhancement opportunities and selected the most easily achievable ones for fast execution, mostly those which could be conducted through slickline intervention alone, before expanding intervention operations to more complex opportunities.

After two years of the revised well integrity strategy implementation, a trend of the typical integrity failures and their frequency had been established, which was then used to update the critical sparing philosophy and internal well integrity management systems. Once the asset well integrity had been improved, more complex non-routine intervention was planned and executed, this started with chemical pumping and slickline services supported by a vessel for additional bedding for organic and inorganic scale remediation. Due to significant logistical challenges, subsequent campaigns utilised a larger vessel with a crane to avoid reliance on the jacket cranes with limited and derated capacities. Starting from the third year of operating the assets, the operator successfully planned and executed Coiled Tubing, Pumping and Slickline interventions supported by an Accommodation Workboat for acid stimulation, coiled tubing sand clean out and most recently for coiled tubing and slickline fishing activities.

This paper may be used as a guide on how an operator can successfully approach building up well intervention activity frequency and complexity in a mature oil producing asset.
Navigating Geological Uncertainties: A Comprehensive Approach for Horizontal Well Placement Success within Complex Deep-Water Reservoirs
Authors: Michael Esther , Nguyen Viet , Das Saikat , Sangvaree Thakerngchai , Hanif Mohd Shah Redza , Amperanto Henrikus , Wee Low Kok
Published: February 2024

Deep-water and ultra-deep water drilling presents various challenges that demand innovative solutions to ensure successful well placement in the target reservoir. Geological uncertainties in these environments are rather complicated, thus, require meticulous planning across all aspects. This paper explores the complexities of horizontal well placement in deep-water environments through the landing and geosteering of two wells in the Field 1 and Field 2 oil fields, offshore Sabah, Malaysia (Figure 1). Horizontal well drilling has emerged as a strategic approach to optimize reservoir recovery in deep-water settings. However, the success of such endeavors hinges on the ability to navigate through geological uncertainties, such as faulted reservoirs and varying formation characteristics. This study aims to share the strategic planning, technological innovations, and mitigation strategies employed during the drilling of two horizontal wells targeting the same turbidite sand sequence in Field 1 and Field 2 fields.

Through the lens of the Field 1 and Field 2 case studies, we aim to contribute valuable lessons and recommendations for other deep-water players with similar geological uncertainties. By understanding the intricacies of these challenges and the successful approaches employed, stakeholders can enhance their ability to optimize reservoir recovery and achieve efficient well placement in deep-water environments.
Extreme Underbalance Perforation on the Wire
Authors: Khong Chee Kin , Ownis B. C. Abdulnasser , Rhodes David , Lim Kevin , Billaud Matthieu
Published: February 2024

Total E&P Borneo B.V. (TEPB) operates the M field in the Block B, located in the South China Sea at approximately 55 km from the Brunei shoreline in 60 m of water. The field has been producing gas and condensates since 1999. The initial field development plan did not exploit all reservoirs encountered in a well to optimize spending by distributing zonal exploitation to different development wells. Later during the field life, these non-perforated zones are planned to be opened.

The remaining non-perforated zones may be still at un-depleted reservoir pressure while the bottom hole pressure at producing development wells is at depleted pressure which can result in an underbalance perforation operation more than 10,000 psi (689.5 bar). However, the allocated intervention budget is limited as there are possibilities that these non-perforated zones will be depleted. In addition, pressure information obtained by partially perforating these zones will be used as a justification to secure higher budgets for coiled tubing or a workover rig to perforate potential unperforated zones fully in adjacent wells apart from possibly mobilizing a drilling rig to add infill wells.

These mono-bore wells also have scale deposition issues. Perforation options that leave fish in the well are not desired. A slickline perforation method was selected due to lower cost through efficiency and using smaller diameter high performance guns for lower risk. Extensive preparations and pre-job modeling were required and performed to plan for this slickline conveyed extreme underbalance perforation project.

Some of the critical steps includes:

Stakeholder communications Production logging before perforation Wellbore steady state/transient flow modeling Tension and gun lift modeling Perforation modeling to plan for a suitable gun Gun shock modeling Operational flow chart Contingency plan Well preparation – gauge cutter Measurement while perforating

Technical and risk evaluation resulted in the weep-holes perforation method being selected for this project. The high-pressure zones on the subject well were step-by-step perforated based on a detailed plan. At the last safe perforation run that resulted in a huge well shut-in pressure increase, the well was production tested. The production test indicated the added perforations at this well operation boosted the well production by about 100%.
Integrating Operations Data and Hydraulic Models for Automated Choke Surveillance and Production Optimization
Authors: Raghav Varun K. , Pareek Aditya , Agrawal Nitesh , Pandey Shashank , Becker Gauthier , Swanberg Cassandra
Published: February 2024

Wellhead choke valve is a critical control element of a well that is used to regulate its drawdown, sand production and to execute optimal production-injection plan. Monitoring state of health of wellhead choke in a producing field is important to avoid production loss due to degraded and non-ideal choke valve performance and to proactively plan equipment maintenance.

Automated wellhead choke surveillance tool was developed as part of in-house digital oil field application. The tool uses hydraulic models auto tuned to physical well tests to provide daily estimates of liquid and gas production rates in response to change in operations data; wellhead pressure and gas-lift rate. The predicted rates along with well specific choke valve sizing data are used as inputs to ELF valve sizing model to monitor current performance of wellhead choke valve. This approach determines the state of wellhead choke; whether it is plugged or eroded. Additionally, the tool predicts new trim size for replacement of eroded choke valves, and estimates uplift associated with replacement and maintenance of plugged and eroded choke valves.

The surveillance tool has been used in conventional assets to identify plugged and eroded wellhead chokes. In one of the cases, it highlighted that excessive pressure drop that was potentially a result of a plugged choke. This was later confirmed by presence of excessive scaling observed in the flowline. In one more instance, the tool highlighted an undersized choke that led to calibration of wellhead sensor and helped in improving data integrity and quality.

A wellhead choke monitoring tool that is integral part of internally developed digital oil field application is presented. The tool uses the updated hydraulic models with operations data to determine health of wellhead choke on daily basis. The tool is augmented with supporting visualization that tracks observed and expected choke performance over history and enables surveillance by exception by highlighting uplift potential associated with replacement and maintenance of wellhead chokes.
Combined Engineered Lost Circulation Approaches for a Complex Fractured Carbonate Horizontal Formation: Middle East Case History
Authors: Peres-Demarthon Guillaume , Phyoe Thein Zaw , Pallapothu Surya , Pauferro Paulo , Aghaguluyev Javid
Published: February 2024

Lost circulation is a major challenge when drilling a well with depth reaching 8000 m in the horizontal section and a fractured carbonate reservoir as the target. High mud losses range from 34 m3/hr (210 bbl/hr) up to 120 m3/hr (750 bbl/hr). These losses reduce the rate of penetration and increase material costs, resulting in an increased overall well cost. In a worst-case scenario, immediate drilling problems can result, which include well control issues, formation pack off, and stuck pipe.

Based on earlier drilling experience in one of middle east location, no single solution resulted in a high success rate, reducing losses, and regaining returns. The solutions involve decreasing the density, controlling the viscosity, and adding lost circulation materials (LCM) to the drilling fluid. These LCMs help to control the drilling parameters while offering mediocre aid with drilling plug placement. To address this severe lost circulation problem, a decision flow chart was constructed and combined with an engineered lost circulation approach to combat losses and strengthen the wellbore across these natural fractures. This approach was designed to more efficiently drill a new well in this field.

Firstly, combined engineered wellbore strengthening approaches to cure losses included a high-strength, high-solid lost circulation system with a goal to control the losses. This system initially appeared efficient and was later combined with particulate material to improve strengthening and plugging capabilities. Due to fracture size uncertainty, an engineered fiber-based design loss circulation control pill was implemented to increase the sealing efficiency of the uncertain fractured zones. This pill was based on a resilient engineered fiber portion that used a particle size distribution principle. The concept of combining fibers and optimized solids was to form an impermeable grid to strengthen the wellbore integrity. A laboratory test was performed to confirm the system's ability to bridge the loss zone. These solutions were pumped through circulation ports above the drilling bottomhole assembly a total flow area (TFA) of 1.571 in.2. Once these solutions were incorporated, they helped to successfully regain fluid returns across the naturally fractured zones while permanently sealing the losses.

Deploying the combined engineered pill and resilient engineered fiber pill at a different depth proved their applicability under different conditions and a standard engineering approach for improving wellbore integrity was developed for future drilling in this field. The aggregated solid grid formed by this combined approach ensured additional force and pressure created by drilling more deeply into the section and making it possible to successfully drill to the section TD without additional nonproductive time and risk of well control loss.
A Noninvasive Method to Sample Immune Cells in the Lower Female Genital Tract Using Menstrual Discs
Authors: Peters M Quinn , Domenjo-Vila Eva , Carlson Marc , Armistead Blair , Edlefsen Paul T , Gasper Melanie , Dabee Smritee , Whidbey Christopher , Jaspan Heather B , Prlic Martin , Harrington Whitney E
Published: February 2024

T cells in the human female genital tract (FGT) are key mediators of susceptibility to and protection from infection, including HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. There is a critical need for increased understanding of the distribution and activation of T cell populations in the FGT, but current sampling methods require a healthcare provider and are expensive, limiting the ability to study these populations longitudinally. To address these challenges, we have developed a method to sample immune cells from the FGT utilizing disposable menstrual discs which are noninvasive, self-applied, and low in cost. To demonstrate reproducibility, we sampled the cervicovaginal fluid of healthy, reproductive-aged individuals using menstrual discs across 3 sequential days. Cervicovaginal fluid was processed for cervicovaginal cells, and high-parameter flow cytometry was used to characterize immune populations. We identified large numbers of live, CD45+ leukocytes, as well as distinct populations of T cells and B cells. Within the T cell compartment, activation and suppression status of T cell subsets were consistent with previous studies of the FGT utilizing current approaches, including identification of both tissue-resident and migratory populations. In addition, the T cell population structure was highly conserved across days within individuals but divergent across individuals. Our approach to sample immune cells in the FGT with menstrual discs will decrease barriers to participation and empower longitudinal sampling in future research studies.
The Feulgen reaction: from pink-magenta to rainbow fluorescent at the Maffo Vialli’s School of Histochemistry
Authors: Mazzini Giuliano
Published: February 2024

For over a century, Palazzo Botta (Palace Botta) has housed the University of Pavia's Biomedical Institutes. Illustrious scientists have conducted research and taught at this Palace, making significant contributions to the advancement of natural, biological, and medical science. Among them, Camillo Golgi received the Nobel Prize for discovering the so-called "black reaction." Following Golgi, the Palace continued to be a hub for the development of methodologies and reactions aimed at detecting and quantifying biological components. Maffo Vialli (in the Golgi stream) was the first to establish a Histochemistry Research Group, which began in the naturalistic field and later expanded to the biomedical area. Among the many histochemical studies initiated in the Palace, the Feulgen reaction undoubtedly played a significant role. This reaction, developed R. Feulgen and H. Rossenbeck in 1924, had significant international implications: numerous researchers then contributed to define its fine chemical details, which remained the subject of study for years, resulting in a massive international scientific literature. The Pavia School of Histochemistry also contributed to the evolution and application of this method, which has become a true benchmark in quantitative histochemistry. Giovanni Prenna and the CNR Centre for Histochemistry made significant contributions, as they were already focused on fluorescence cytochemistry. The Pavia researchers made significant contributions to the development of methodology and, in particular, instrumentation; the evolution of the latter resulted in the emergence of flow cytometry and an ever-increasing family of fluorescent probes, which somewhat overshadowed the Feulgen reaction for DNA quantification. The advent of monoclonal antibodies then contributed to the final explosion of flow cytometry in clinical application, almost making young neophytes forget that its roots date back to Feulgen.
Icariin plus curcumol enhances autophagy through the mTOR pathway and promotes cathepsin B-mediated pyroptosis of prostate cancer cells
Authors: Wang Xu-Yun , Xu Wen-Jing , Li Bo-Nan , Sun Tian-Song , Sheng Wen
Published: February 2024

Objective:

To examine the effect of icariin plus curcumol on prostate cancer cells PC3 and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Methods:

We employed the Cell Counting Kit 8 assay and colony formation assay to assess cell viability and proliferation. Autophagy expression was analyzed using monodansylcadaverine staining. Immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses were used to evaluate protein expressions related to autophagy, pyroptosis, and the mTOR pathway. Cellular damage was examined using the lactate dehydrogenase assay. Moreover, cathepsin B and NLRP3 were detected by co-immunoprecipitation.

Results:

Icariin plus curcumol led to a decrease in PC3 cell proliferation and an enhancement of autophagy. The levels of LC3-II/LC3-I and beclin-1 were increased, while the levels of p62 and mTOR were decreased after treatment with icariin plus curcumol. These changes were reversed upon overexpression of mTOR. Furthermore, 3-methyladenine resulted in a decrease in inflammatory cytokines, pyroptosis-related protein levels, and lactate dehydrogenase concentration, compared to the icariin plus curcumol group. Inhibiting cathepsin B reversed the regulatory effects of icariin plus curcumol.

Conclusions:

Icariin plus curcumol demonstrates great potential as a therapeutic agent for castration-resistant prostate cancer by enhancing autophagy via the mTOR pathway and promoting pyroptosis mediated by cathepsin B. These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic potential of icariin and curcumol for prostate cancer treatment.
Catalpa bignonioides extract improves exercise performance through regulation of growth and metabolism in skeletal muscles
Authors: Jeong Hoibin , Lee Dong-joo , Kwon Sung-Pil , Park SeonJu , Kim Song-Rae , Kim Seung Hyun , Park Jae-Il , Lee Deug-chan , Choi Kyung-Min , Lee WonWoo , Park Ji-Won , Yun Bohyun , Cho Su-Hyeon , Kim Kil-Nam
Published: February 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the effects of Catalpa bignonioides fruit extract on the promotion of muscle growth and muscular capacity in vitro and in vivo.

Methods:

Cell viability was measured using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Cell proliferation was assessed using a 5-bromo-2’-deoxyuridine (BrdU) assay kit. Western blot analysis was performed to determine the protein expressions of related factors. The effects of Catalpa bignonioides extract were investigated in mice using the treadmill exhaustion test and whole-limb grip strength assay. Chemical composition analysis was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Results:

Catalpa bignonioides extract increased the proliferation of C2C12 mouse myoblasts by activating the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. It also induced metabolic changes, increasing the number of mitochondria and glucose metabolism by phosphorylating adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase. In an in vivo study, the extract-treated mice showed improved motor abilities, such as muscular endurance and grip strength. Additionally, HPLC analysis showed that vanillic acid may be the main component of the Catalpa bignonioides extract that enhanced muscle strength.

Conclusions:

Catalpa bignonioides improves exercise performance through regulation of growth and metabolism in skeletal muscles, suggesting its potential as an effective natural agent for improving muscular strength.
Hydrangea serrata extract exerts tumor inhibitory activity against hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells via inducing p27/CDK2-mediated cell cycle arrest and apoptosis
Authors: Kim Ye-eun , Hwang Jeonghye , Kim Ki-Young
Published: February 2024

Objective:

To examine the inhibitory effect of Hydrangea serrata extract against hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells and its underlying mechanisms.

Methods:

The effects of Hydrangea serrata extract on growth inhibition of tumor cells and spheroids were assessed using MTT and 3D culture assays. Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analyses were employed to investigate the changes in mRNA and protein expression levels of molecules related to cell cycle and apoptosis.

Results:

Hydrangea serrata extract effectively inhibited the growth of both tumor cells and spheroids. The extract also significantly upregulated p27 mRNA expression and downregulated CDK2 mRNA expression, leading to cell cycle arrest. Moreover, increased BAX/Bcl-2 ratio as well as caspase-9 and - 3 were observed after treatment with Hydrangea serrata extract, indicating the induction of tumor cell apoptosis.

Conclusions:

Hydrangea serrata extract has the potential to alleviate tumors by effectively modulating cell-cycle-related gene expressions and inducing apoptosis, thereby inhibiting tumor growth.
Effectiveness of high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) versus bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) in preventing tracheal reintubation in patients with high risk of extubation failure in intensive care unit – A randomised comparative trial
Authors: Kumari Nisha , Kumari Bibha , Kumar Sanjeev , Arun Nidhi , Kumari Ritu
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims:

The incidence of tracheal extubation failure in high-risk patients is higher, and non-invasive ventilation is suggested to avoid tracheal reintubation. This study compares the effectiveness of bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) and high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) to reduce the rate of reintubation in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with increased risk of extubation failure.

Methods:

This randomised comparative trial was conducted on 60 high-risk patients on mechanical ventilators admitted to the ICU, ready for weaning after a spontaneous breathing trial. They were randomised to Group H for HFNC and Group B for BiPAP therapy. Designated therapy was administered in these high-risk patients for up to 48 hours after tracheal extubation. Haemodynamic parameters [mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), a saturation of peripheral oxygen (SpO2), electrocardiogram (ECG)], arterial blood gas analysis (ABG) parameter [potential of hydrogen (pH), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2), partial pressure of oxygen/fraction of inspired oxygen (paO2/FiO2) ratio], the effectiveness of cough, comfort level was recorded and continuous monitoring for signs of respiratory distress and failure was done.

Results:

Most of the patients were obese and had more than two risk factors for extubation failure. Several patients in Group B have significantly higher successful extubation than in Group H (P = 0.044). Most of the reintubation took place within 24 hours. The HFNC therapy was more comfortable and acceptable to patients.

Conclusion:

BiPAP therapy was more efficient than HFNC in preventing tracheal reintubation among patients with a high risk of extubation failure.
Tailgut Duplication Cyst: A Rare Cause of Refractory Low Back Pain in a Teenage Girl
Authors: Kambale Tushar , Iqbal Banyameen , Choudhury Nilanjana Dhar , Sawaimul Komal D
Published: February 2024

Tailgut cyst, or retrorectal cystic hamartoma, is a rare congenital malformation originating from retrorectal or presacral space. It stands as an embryonic vestige of the hindgut’s postnatal component. Owing to its rarity, undiagnosed asymptomatic cases and diverse array of clinical presentations that potentially mimic other diseases, correct diagnosis is often delayed. It can present at any age but is most prevalent in middle-aged females, often remaining asymptomatic and eluding detection during digital rectal examinations. Postoperative histopathological examination is the definitive diagnostic method. This case report highlights an unusual presentation of a tailgut cyst as an underlying etiology for lower back pain in a 17-year-old female patient, emphasizing the importance of considering it as a potential differential diagnosis for intractable lower back pain, especially in young females. Timely recognition of this condition is pivotal for precise management and better patient outcomes.
Nebulized Hypertonic Saline in Children with Acute Wheezing or Asthma Exacerbation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Das Rashmi Ranjan , Singh Meenu , Gulla Krishna Mohan , Bhat Javeed Iqbal
Published: February 2024

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of nebulized hypertonic in children with acute wheezing or asthma exacerbation.

Methods:

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with the application of the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Relevant databases were searched till July 30, 2023.

Results:

Of 157 citations retrieved, two RCTs including 88 children were included in the review. A total of 38 children received hypertonic saline (HS) (5% in 16 children), and 63.6% (n = 56) were male. The RCTs included children with acute wheezing (one included acute viral wheezing) either the first episode or recurrent episodes. Compared to the control group, the nebulized HS group had a decrease in hospital stay of 1 day. The admission rate, discharge rate, and asthma severity score improved in the HS group. The evidence generated for the primary outcome (duration of hospital stay) was of “moderate certainty,” and for secondary outcomes, it varied from “very low to moderate certainty.”

Conclusions:

HS (3% or 5%) along with salbutamol decreased the duration of hospitalization and asthma severity score in children aged 6 months–6 years presenting with acute wheezing to the emergency department. The evidence generated was of “moderate certainty.” However, we need more data from high-quality RCTs with large sample sizes from diverse settings before any recommendation can be made.

[PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022354696].
Influence of endotracheal tube and laryngeal mask airway for general anesthesia on perioperative adverse events in patients undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy: A propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Jia Yanan , Zhang Yu , Wang Zihan , Pan Wei , Fu Haifeng , Du Wenwen
Published: February 2024

Background:

To compare perioperative adverse events between general anesthesia with endotracheal tube (ETT) and general anesthesia with laryngeal mask airway (LMA) in patients undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Materials and Methods:

This was a large sample retrospective, propensity score-matched (PSM) study. We collected the data of 6739 female patients who underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy between January 2016 and June 2021 in our hospital, China. Patients were divided into two groups (ETT group and LMA group) according to different airway management modes. Data on all perioperative adverse events were collected. PSM analysis was performed to control confounding factors and differences in baseline values between the two groups. Finally, 4150 female patients were recruited after PSM.

Results:

The total number of patients taking intraoperative vasoactive drugs during surgery was higher in the ETT group than in the LMA group (P = 0.04). The LMA group had a higher incidence of vomiting (51 [2.46%]) and somnolence (165 [7.95]) in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU) than the ETT group (71 [3.42%] and 102 [4.92%], respectively) (P = 0.02 and P < 0.001). Hypothermia was significantly higher in the LMA group (183 [10.36%]) than in the ETT group (173 [8.34%]) in the PACU (P = 0.03). The number of patients with sore throat was significantly higher in the ETT group (434 [20.02%]) than in the LMA group (299 [14.41%]) in the ward (P < 0.001). Other variables such as hypoxemia, moderate to severe pain, abdominal distension, diarrhea, sleep disorders, wound bleeding, and skin itch were not significantly different between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

The ETT group had more incidences of vomiting, sore throat, and cough complications and needed more drug treatment than the LMA group. LMA is a better airway management mode and LMA general anesthesia can be safely used in patients undergoing laparoscopic nonemergency hysterectomy.
Apparent diffusion coefficient; is it an effective index for differentiating between types of lung cancer brain metastases?
Authors: Aybar Mustafa Devran , Turna Onder
Published: February 2024

Background:

The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of tumors are highly correlated with tumor cellularity and used as a neuroimaging marker with the potential to differentiate between major histological subtypes. Here, we will attempt to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the ADC to distinguish between types of metastatic brain metastases from lung cancer.

Methods:

One hundred and fifty-six patients (136 [%87, 18] male, 20 [%12.82] female) admitted to our hospital with the diagnosis of primary lung cancer were included in the study. In addition to conventional magnetic resonance imaging sequences, Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and ADC images were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively.

Results:

We found hyperintensity in most of the metastatic lesions on a qualitatively evaluated DWI sequence. In quantitative assessment according to ADC value comparisons between the different histologic subtype metastatic lung carcinoma groups, small-cell carcinoma (SCLC) had the highest value (1.93 × 10‒3mm2/s ± 0.95) and nonsmall-cell-combined (NSCCLC) type was the least (0.55 × 10‒3 mm2/s ± 0.46). When we tried to distinguish lung cancer-induced brain metastases into two main groups as SCC and NSC by considering the mean ADC ratios we obtained 0.65 ± 0.14 for SCC and 1.51± 0.30 for NSC. On the other hand, there was no significant statistical difference between the specific histological subtype groups with comparison of ADC values (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Quantitatively quantified DWI-ADC can distinguish metastatic lesions from the normal brain parenchyma. Although we realized whether differentiation of SCLC and non-SCLC in brain metastases can be achieved with DWI, we could not define any correlation between DWI/ADC values and primary histology of the metastatic foci. We believe that more accurate results can be achieved with advanced studies with more patients included and common sequence features.
Diagnostic value of lung ultrasonography compared with chest radiography among children with pneumonia in Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt
Authors: Dimkpa Jude Nnaemeka , Robinson Ebbi Donald , Aitafo Josephine Enekole , Ugboma Enighe Wananyo , Nwankwo Nelson C.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Pneumonia is an acute inflammatory condition affecting the lung alveoli. The current gold standard for diagnosis pneumonia in children is chest radiography (CXR). Lung ultrasound scan (LUS) may be used as a safer diagnostic alternative since it does not use ionizing radiation.

Aim:

The study is to evaluate the diagnostic value of LUS compared with CXR among children with pneumonia.

Materials and Methods:

It was a prospective cross-sectional study among 100 patients aged between 0 and 5 years, diagnosed with pneumonia. The spectrums of LUS findings were compared with chest radiographic findings of the same patients to ascertain the diagnostic value LUS. The LUS was performed using a 3.5–5.0 MHz convex probe and a high-frequency (7.5–10.0 MHz) linear transducer fitted to a Logic PRO 6.0, general electric ultrasound machine.

Results:

The mean age of the participants was 17.6 (±12.4) months with males and females accounting for 60% and 40%, respectively. CXR and LUS detected pneumonia in 78% and 93% of patients respectively (P = 0.002). In LUS, the most common findings were subpleural consolidation (73.0%), and pleural-line distortions (66%), while the commonest CXR findings were interstitial opacities (69%), and homogeneous consolidations (37%). The sensitivity and specificity of LUS in this study are 96.2% and 18.2%, respectively, with positive and negative predictive values of 80.6% and 57.1%, respectively.

Conclusion:

LUS had a higher positive detection rate than CXR. Its high sensitivity, lack of ionizing radiation, and portability make it a useful first-line imaging modality in the diagnosis and manage pneumonia.
Evaluation of high-risk patients with dense breast on high-resolution ultrasound for screening and detection of breast cancer where mammography is of low significance
Authors: Mukhtar Rubina , Hussain Mukhtar , Mukhtar Muhammad Ahmad , Haider Syed Raza
Published: February 2024

Background:

Early diagnosis of breast cancer is a challenging problem in high-risk patients with dense breast. The risk of breast cancer is many fold higher in dense breast as compared to nondense on one side with limited screening or diagnostic role of mammography on the other side. The aim of our study is to elaborate the role of high-resolution ultrasonography (HR-USG) as adjunct modality to overcome this limitation.

Materials and Methods:

This is a prospective observational study conducted in the breast care clinic of a tertiary care cancer hospital. Totally, 2720 patients were enrolled for mammography. Out of these, 339 patients were reported according to Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BIRADS) as 0 (inconclusive) and were suggested for further evaluation by other modalities. All patients reported for mammography as BIRADS 0, were included in this study for HR-USG.

Results:

On HR-USG, 33.4% of patients with dense breast were shown to have suspicious (BIRADS 5) lesions. 21.7% had simple cysts. Fibro adenomas and abscess were seen in 18% and in 15% of patients, respectively. Other findings were duct ectasia (4.3%) and galactocele (3.4%). 1.4% of patients were normal on HR-USG.

Conclusion:

Our study showed HR-USG as a modality of choice that supersedes the diagnostic efficiency of mammography in patients with dense breasts thus enhances early detection and better treatment of breast cancer, decreasing mortality owning to delay in diagnosis.