bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Stranded Gas Field Development Economics – Justifying Incentives to Boost Investment
Authors: Daramola B. , Iheobi C. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Why does the USA make money from gas but Nigeria flares most of its gas as waste? Why does Qatar make money from gas but the United Arab Emirates struggles to do so? This paper evaluates the profitability of developing a stranded gas field. It was initially developed for the 2017 Nigerian Gas Policy consultation roadshow, and recommends actions to monetise gas resources in countries struggling to develop their gas fields.
Field D is a stranded gas field offshore Nigeria and has remained undeveloped as at 2024. An initial economics evaluation suggested that its development would be uneconomic. A sensitivity analysis of gas prices indicated that the field’s breakeven gas price (19 USD/KSCF) was too high and it was deemed too small. The team re-evaluated seismic data and nearby gas prospects, and increased the gas initially in place (GIIP) volume from 800 BSCF to 4800 BSCF. This expanded the field development plan from 5 to 20 production wells, but did not deliver profit to the investors.
Sensitivities to fiscal terms and gas price were evaluated, and a combination of profit tax reduction, royalty reduction, and a fixed gas price made the project economic. The economic impact of Nigerian government approval delays, asset sabotage, and national oil company (NNPC) cash call shortfalls was also evaluated.
Most Nigeria gas field developments are uneconomic due to low domestic gas price, tough fiscal terms, government approval delays, high risk of asset sabotage, and NNPC cash call shortfalls. The evaluation suggests that Field D can be monetised with a reduced petroleum profit tax (30%), reduced royalty (10%), and a fixed gas sales contract (gas price = 5 USD/KSCF).
This paper presents the viewpoints of the government and investors, outlines the reasons for the current low investment in stranded gas field developments, and recommends steps to monetise their development.
Innovative Risk Management Strategy for Integrated Services Projects in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Malegaonkar Abhijit , Rhodes Matthew , McCarty Thomas M. , Davila Andres Nunez , Alrasrumani Muhannad , Restrepo Juan 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Drilling operations in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) area, are characterized by high geological uncertainty, which requires optimum engineering, planning, and early risk detection. The expertise and technical knowledge must be complemented with a strategy that accomplishes a continuous and detailed risk evaluation and self-verification process, covering all drilling stages - design, execution, and evaluation. The objective of this paper is to describe how a risk management system was implemented within an integrated services model, resulting in a higher level of operational efficiency. The strategy is based on the technical risk evaluation and determination of initiatives to become effective and efficient during both planning and execution cycles. From the risk identification perspective, establishing different strategies and technologies to minimize the occurrence of undesirable events and defining mitigation measures to reduce the impact, with the inputs of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to determine the most appropriate technologies to de-risk operations. Project schedule management is part of the considerations, looking to facilitate the technology implementations and applications across the integrated project and align with the well scope and operational complexity. The implementation of the Risk Management strategy in projects operating under shared risks drilling modality, facilitates the definition of shared risk appetite, objectives, and key performance indicators. The time and cost estimation are the main input for the integrated services provider (ISP) and the Oil and Gas Operator in their performance partnership. This paper will describe different digital solutions that aid in risk management and performance optimization. Key initiatives employed were around resource optimization and dynamic update and reviews of a well’s critical path.
The prevalence and contributing factors of NSAIDs Prescription among Chronic Kidney Disease Patients in Primary Care: A mixed methods study from Kingdom of Bahrain
Authors: Husain Walaa A. , Moosa Rabab M. , Awadh Ameera M. , Aladraj Fadak M. , Mahdi Bayan , Haji Shereen M. , Chlif Sadok , Alonge Olakunle , Shehatathors Mohamed H. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background The prevalence of Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) prescription and its contributory factors among chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients are unknown in the Kingdom of Bahrain – though NSAIDs are known to cause significant renal impairment. This study will determine the prevalence of NSAIDs prescription among CKD patients and the contributory factors to this behavior from the perspective of primary care physicians in Bahrain.Methodology: A sequential mixed-method design study comprising of a retrospective cross-sectional survey drawn from patients’ electronic medical records (EMR) and qualitative in-depth interviews with primary care physicians (PCPs) was conducted between December 2022 and January 2023 – with an EMR data lookback from 1st June 2021 to 1st June 2022 Quantitative descriptive analysis was conducted to estimate the prevalence of NSAIDs and their associations with sociodemographic and service delivery indicators. An Ishikawa diagram was used to describe contributory factors to NSAID prescription among CKD patients drawing from the literature and was used to guide a deductive thematic analysis of the qualitative data.Result Of the enrolled CKD patient population (4,380 patients), 17.4% had at least one inappropriate NSAID prescription. 80% of these patients had moderate renal impairment, while 19.3% had severe impairment. Most of the prescriptions were in 24-hour health centers (48.5%). A Bivariate relationship between the prescription and the sociodemographic factors showed a significant P value regarding age (P-value 0.008*) and the severity of the renal impairment (P-value < 0.001*). The contributory factors were divided into five themes: patient factors, physician factors, health team factors, I SEHA factors and system factors. Of these themes, patients and PCPs were identified by the primary care physicians as some of the most important reasons for NSAIDs prescription among CKD patients.Conclusion The prevalence of NSAIDs prescription among CKD patients is relatively high in the kingdom of Bahrain – largely due to patient and physician factors as identified by primary care physicians. Possible solutions for addressing these factors include raising awareness among patients, PCPs, and other healthcare workers and activating the Swiss Cheese Model that involves patients, PCPs, and other health team members to ensure appropriate medication practice and patients’ safety.
Construction of design for cropping sequence experiments in fractional replication
Authors: Dash Sukanta , Singh Ankit Kumar , Mandal Baidyanath , Parsad Rajender 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Cropping sequence experiments are getting more popularize in the recent era of agriculture. Here, estimation of main effects applied in every season as well as residual effect and their interaction with application in next season are important for consideration. The problem of maintaining homogeneity in application of large number of factors can be handle by considering a fraction of complete factorial effects. Also, a little work based on fractional factorial experiments are available in literature and those designs are computer specific as based on algorithm. This article develops a simple construction method for generation 1/2k 2n i.e., factorial with fractional replicates which provides estimation of all main effects and two factor interactions between consecutive factors.
Mechanical and Viscoelastic Properties of a Temperature-Responsive Photocurable Resin for 3D Printed Orthodontic Clear Aligners
Authors: Choi Jin-Young , Kim Hoon , Kim Seong-Hun , Kim Su-Jung , Cha Jung-Yul , Kim Ki Beom , Kim Hyun-Joong , Lee Se Yeon , Jang Sunho , Khan Tanveer Ahmed , Min Jinhong , Lee Jiho 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This study presents a novel technique for the direct 3D printing of TC-85, a biocompatible material specifically designed for orthodontic uses. This method aims to overcome the biomechanical constraints associated with the conventional thermoforming process used in aligner fabrication. The investigation emphasizes analyzing TC-85's mechanical and viscoelastic properties, focusing on how temperature changes impact these characteristics and their relevance to clinical outcomes. Using a Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D printer, the photoreactive resin TC-85 is printed, and extensive thermo-mechanical testing is conducted, which includes evaluations of tensile modulus, stress relaxation, and creep behavior. Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) is conducted at temperatures varying from 30 to 45°C to assess the material's adaptive response to thermal fluctuations. TC-85 is distinguished by its unique mechanical properties, which include a temperature-sensitive stiffness, stress relaxation capability, and shape memory feature. The results demonstrate that TC-85 maintains an enhanced level of residual force and a faster recovery of strain through numerous cycles of loading and unloading. At 40°C, TC-85 displays a substantial reduction in its storage modulus, while maintaining consistent strain recovery and volumetric constancy. The study highlights TC-85's potential in orthodontic treatments, providing adaptable mechanical and viscoelastic properties that enable the exertion of consistent, regulated forces on teeth. Its resistance to force decay, stable volume at raised temperatures, and built-in shape memory enhance hygienic upkeep and patient comfort, positioning TC-85 as a pioneering material for the next generation of clear aligners.
Promoting Food Tourism and Sustaining Heritage Innovating Mango Ice Cream with Tapol (Black Rice) for Generation Z Market
Authors: RODRIGUEZ MARY ROSE GEMMA , IDAGDAG CRIS ANDREI , OBANI DYNNIEL 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

As Food Tourism gains popularity, promoting local culinary heritage and sustaining cultural traditions become crucial. This research explores the acceptability of Tapol (Black) Rice as a topping for Mango Ice Cream to attract the Generation Z market in San Jose, Antique, Philippines. The study, employing an evaluation survey of 150 participants aged 18-24, focused on demographics, culinary preferences, perceptions of heritage integration, feedback on Mango Ice Cream with Tapol (Black) Rice, and open-ended suggestions. Aligned with cultural sociology, it delves into preserving culinary heritage while adapting to contemporary tastes. Survey results revealed 78% familiarity with traditional Antique dishes, and 89% emphasized the importance of preserving culinary heritage for cultural identity. Feedback on the Mango Ice Cream with Tapol (Black) Rice was positive, with 90% finding its color appealing and 95% rating its taste and presentation as satisfactory. Suggestions included commercial availability and adding more heritage ingredients like Taro. The study illuminates Generation Z’s positive reception to integrating traditional elements into popular treats, emphasizing cultural preservation while embracing culinary innovation. Findings suggest an opportunity to bridge tradition and innovation in culinary practices, reflecting a willingness to preserve cultural heritage amid evolving tastes and reconciling tradition with contemporary culinary preferences.
Modeling and simulation on mechanical behavior of repaired bismaleimide resin matrix composite laminates considering different repairing processes
Authors: Xu Aijun , Niu Zhiliang , Su Lianpeng , Gu Haiming , Dai Guobao , Hao Xiaoming , Yue Zhenming , Qiu Yuliang 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Bismaleimide resin (BMPN) matrix composites are widely used in aircraft load-bearing components. Their damage assessment and repair schemes after impact are always the important issues in the researches of civil aircraft composite. In order to better understand their failure behaviors, especially after the cementing repair of the composite laminates, a three-dimensional finite element model of the BMPN matrix composite was established. The constitutive models of 3D Hashin criterion and B-K criterion were implemented through ABAQUS subroutine-USDFLD to simulate the damage behavior of composite laminates and adhesive layers respectively. Through the simulation the influences of the layer setting of the patch and the layer property on the strength recovery after the repair process were compared and discussed. The results show that the failure mode of the parent laminate highly depends on the fiber angle, and the recovery effect of the repaired composite laminates can be highly improved by adding additional layers with the increasing adhesive layer strength.
Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus for Parkinson’s disease: A network imaging marker of the treatment response
Authors: Unadkat Prashin , Vo An , Ma Yilong , Peng Shichun , Nguyen Nha , Niethammer Martin , Tang Chris C. , Dhawan Vijay , Ramdhani Ritesh , Fenoy Albert , Caminiti Silvia Paola , Perani Daniela , Eidelberg David 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) alleviates motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD), thereby improving quality of life. However, quantitative brain markers to evaluate DBS responses and select suitable patients for surgery are lacking. Here, we used metabolic brain imaging to identify a reproducible STN-DBS network for which individual expression levels increased with stimulation in proportion to motor benefit. Of note, measurements of network expression from metabolic and BOLD imaging obtained preoperatively predicted motor outcomes determined after DBS surgery. Based on these findings, we computed network expression in 175 PD patients, with time from diagnosis ranging from 0 to 21 years, and used the resulting data to predict the outcome of a potential STN-DBS procedure. While minimal benefit was predicted for patients with early disease, the proportion of potential responders increased after 4 years. Clinically meaningful improvement with stimulation was predicted in 18.9 – 27.3% of patients depending on disease duration.
Experimental study of Dual-cycle Thermal Management System for Engineering Radiator
Authors: Yu Chao , Zhang Wenbao , Wang Guangyi , Huang Mian 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

With the increasing demand for heat dissipation of engineering vehicles, a dual-cycle cooling system is introduced in this paper to prevent the adverse effects of engineering vehicles' equipment when operating at the overheating temperature. The performance of the new system is analyzed through tests, and the results show that the dual-cycle cooling system can meet the thermal balance requirements of the engineering vehicle during the shovel operation. Compared with the traditional cooling system, the new cooling system improved performance in terms of volume, engine energy consumption and working oil efficiency. The oil consumption of a wheel loader using the dual-cycle cooling system is reduced by 1% per hour, and the temperature of its transmission oil and hydraulic oil is reduced by more than 10 ℃. The new cooling system has bright future in energy saving and emission reduction of engineering vehicles.
Wavelength-accurate and wafer-scale process for nonlinear frequency mixers in thin-film lithium niobate
Authors: Xin C. J. , Lu Shengyuan , Yang Jiayu , Shams-Ansari Amirhassan , Desiatov Boris , Magalhães Letícia , Ghosh Soumya , McGee Erin , Renaud Dylan , Achuthan Nicholas , Zvyagintsev Arseniy , Barton David , Sinclair Neil , Lončar Marko 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Recent advancements in thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) photonics have led to a new generation of high-performance electro-optic devices, including modulators, frequency combs, and microwave-to-optical transducers. However, the broader adoption of TFLN-based devices that rely on all-optical nonlinearities have been limited by the sensitivity of quasi-phase matching (QPM), realized via ferroelectric poling, to fabrication tolerances. Here, we propose a scalable fabrication process aimed at improving the wavelength-accuracy of optical frequency mixers in TFLN. In contrast to the conventional pole-before-etch approach, we first define the waveguide in TFLN and then perform ferroelectric poling. This sequence allows for precise metrology before and after waveguide definition to fully capture the geometry imperfections. Systematic errors can also be calibrated by measuring a subset of devices to fine-tune the QPM design for remaining devices on the wafer. Using this method, we fabricated a large number of second harmonic generation devices aimed at generating 737 nm light, with 73% operating within 5 nm of the target wavelength. Furthermore, we also demonstrate thermo-optic tuning and trimming of the devices via cladding deposition, with the former bringing ~96% of tested devices to the target wavelength. Our technique enables the rapid growth of integrated quantum frequency converters, photon pair sources, and optical parametric amplifiers, thus facilitating the integration of TFLN-based nonlinear frequency mixers into more complex and functional photonic systems.
Impact of dengue fever on depression, anxiety and stress symptoms in Esmeraldas Province, Ecuador: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Salazar Julio Patricio , Alvarado Fabián Andrés Zurita , Weyand Ines , Rosero Tamara , Tapia Boris , Olive Cecilia Solis , Rosero Karen , Bermudez Pablo , Gobbi Federico , Bottieau Emmanuel , Huits Ralph 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Physical symptoms of dengue have been documented extensively, but knowledge gaps on dengue-associated mental health hazards remain. We investigated the frequency of psychiatric symptoms (depression, anxiety and stress) and neurocognitive performance during the first year after a dengue episode.
Using DASS-21 scores at 3, 6 and 12 months, we assessed depression, anxiety and stress in anti-dengue IgM-positive adults and matched controls during the 2021 dengue season in Esmeraldas Province, Ecuador. Patients with DASS-21 scores ≤4 were considerednormal; those with scores of 5-7, 8-10 and ≥11 indicatedmild, moderate and severe depression, respectively; cutoff scores for anxiety and stress were ≥5 and ≥9, respectively. We also assessed ‘delayed matching to sample’ (DMS) and ‘spatial working memory’ (SWM) using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery.
We enrolled 102 cases and 78 controls. At 3 months,90 cases and 70 controls were available for follow-up, among these 40/90 (44.4%) cases and 12/70 (17.1%) controls had DASS-21 scores ≥5 (RR 2.7, 95% CI [1.5-4.7]). Dengue remained a predictor for depression after adjusting for age, sex, and COVID-19 status. We observed no difference inanxiety between the groups, but stress scores increased at month three (RR 1.87, 95% CI [1.01-3.4]). DASS-21 scores normalized during follow-up. DMS and SWM did not differ between groups at 3 and 6 months. At month 12, cases had lower SWM than controls did (p value <0.001).
Care providers should be aware of dengue-associated mood disorders and facilitate timely referral to mental health services. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to validate our observations regarding the impact of dengue on mental health and neurocognitive status in affected patients.
OTULIN regulates uveal melanoma tumorigenicity by deubiquitinating IGSF11
Authors: Qili Chen , Wang Jing , Wei Wei , Hu Yanping , Zhang Baohui 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Uveal melanoma (UVM) is the most prevalent primary intraocular malignancy and is known for its poor prognosis and resistance to existing therapies. This study explores the role of OTULIN, a deubiquitinating enzyme, in the pathogenesis of UVM by modulating tumor cell dynamics via its interaction with Immunoglobulin Superfamily Member 11 (IGSF11). We show that OTULIN forms a direct interaction with IGSF11, stabilizing it by cleaving its attached ubiquitin chains and thus preventing its proteasomal degradation. This stabilization significantly boosts UVM cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while simultaneously reducing apoptosis. These effects collectively enhance tumor aggressiveness and the potential for metastasis. Furthermore, our findings reveal an epigenetic regulation mechanism wherein TET3 controls OTULIN expression by modifying methylation patterns, thereby connecting DNA methylation status with the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in cancer. Overall, this study not only advances our understanding of the molecular dynamics driving UVM but also positions the OTULIN-IGSF11 axis as a promising new target for therapeutic intervention, potentially leading to more effective treatments for this challenging cancer.
Adaptive event-triggered control for stochastic nonholonomic systems with unknown virtual control coefficients
Authors: Du Qinghui , Wang Sitian 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This paper presents an event-triggered adaptive neural network control algorithm for stochastic nonholonomic systems with virtual control coefficients being unknown time-varying functions under a novel event-triggered threshold mechanism. The event-triggered mechanism can switch smoothly between fixed and relative threshold, which is ﬁrstly considered for stochastic nonholonomic systems to reduce the communication burden. We give a state-input scaling transformation to transform the stochastic nonholonomic systems into a new system to make it easier to design the controller. By introducing a monotone-decreasing positive continuous function, we construct a suitable adaptive event-triggered controller that can overcome the effect of unknown virtual control coefficients on system performance, while ensuring that all states of the closed-loop system are bounded in probability. An adaptive event-triggered control-based switching strategy is employed to eliminate the uncontrollability phenomenon. The effectiveness of the established control approach is demonstrated through an example.
Enhanced Cycle Life Achievement and Design of a Lithium Dendrite-Free Lithium Metal Anode
Authors: Lee Seung-Hwan , Oh Hyeong-Seok 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The development of Li metal batteries with increased lifespan and energy density is crucial for next-generation energy storage systems. To achieve this, it is necessary to control the growth of Li dendrites, which can lead to cycle performance issues and safety concerns. One approach to increasing the energy density of large-scale Li metal-based batteries is to use thin Li metal anodes. However, fabricating thin Li metal anodes from natural oxide layers can be difficult. In this study, we used pure Li metal powder to fabricate thin Li metal anodes, which do not possess a natural oxide layer. This resulted in Li plating with a low overpotential on the unprotected Li metal surface. Our fabricated LiMP symmetric cell maintained a stable cycle for over 170 hours at a current density of 1.0 mA/cm2, demonstrating superior performance compared to bare Li metal foil. Furthermore, we evaluated the performance of an all-solid-state battery (ASSB) using a polymer solid electrolyte and an oxide-based solid electrolyte in the fabricated LiMP symmetric cell. At 0.1mA/cm2, the conventional Li symmetric cell experienced polarization after 200 hours, while the LiMP symmetric cell remained stable even after 600 hours. Taken together, these results provide new insights into the development of high-performance Li metal batteries.