bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decoupling Phosphonate Scale Inhibitors Adsorption and Precipitation Mechanism
Authors: Løge I. A. , Vazquez O.
Published: June 2024

Scale inhibitor squeeze treatment is a widely used to prevent inorganic scale deposition in oil and gas production operations. Squeeze treatments consist of three steps: firstly, a bullheading of a scale inhibitor (SI) solution in a producer well. Secondly, an overflush stage pushes the SI deeper into the formation, and the well is subsequently shut-in for some time to allow the inhibitor to further retain into the formation. Third and finally, the well is put back in production, and the SI is slowly released in the production brine. The treatment will protect the well if the concentration in the produced brine is above a certain concentration, known as MIC (Minimum Inhibitor Concentration), normally a few ppm. The retention level is crucial in determining the squeeze treatment lifetime, particularly at low concentrations. It is generally accepted that the retention is governed by adsorption and precipitation mechanisms, which will depend on temperature, pH, and divalent ions concentration such as Ca and Mg. Recent experiments concluded that adsorption is more dominant than precipitation at low concentrations.

Traditionally, adsorption/precipitation experiments have been performed at the macroscale using bottle test, analyzing the supernatant after filtering through inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectroscopy, and applying scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging to analyze the SI retention on particulates. Although these techniques provide very valuable information, they are not capable of detecting surface deposits occurring when the SI retention is governed by an adsorption and adsorption /precipitation regime. High-resolution X-ray CT scanning is used in an in-house built mini coreflood system, which consists of a plug flow reactor filled with sandstone (0.25-0.5mm grain size, internal diameter of 4 mm). Coverage and volume deposited were detected through advanced imaging processing. The results show the surface deposit morphology, differentiating between regimes of pure adsorption or adsorption/precipitation. In addition, the retention level and release rate were estimated. This study results will lead to more effective scale inhibitor squeeze treatments.
Optimizing Scale Inhibitor Squeeze Performance for Chalk Reservoirs: Concept, Validation, to Treatment Design
Authors: Yue Zhiwei David , Wang Qiwei , Chen Tao , Ghamdi Tawfik , Lu Yi-Tsung Alex , Ariyaratna Ashley
Published: June 2024

One of the largest oilfields experienced calcite scale depositions on downhole tubing and surface equipment. The incumbent solution is a conventional precipitation-type scale inhibitor squeeze. However, the chalk reservoir features calcium-rich formation waters and strong binding affinities to the selected inhibitor. Such factors often challenge the squeeze design with brine incompatibility, water-loading, and low inhibitor return concentrations in the flowbacks, leading to higher frequency of treatments especially when higher inhibitor MECs are required.

This study details four squeeze optimization approaches for chalk-type formations: 1) Screening of new inhibitor chemistries to provide equivalent inhibition performance and better high-salinity brine tolerance through static bottle and dynamical scaling loop methodologies; 2) Optimizing the main-treatment pH for carbonate formations; 3) Investigation of a newly developed flush-additive squeeze enhancement technology; and 4) Inhibitor-rock adsorption modifiers to boost the inhibitor return profile. Items 2-4 were evaluated through carefully designed dynamical core flood techniques with great data reproducibility.

Through a comprehensive screening of 18 products, one scale inhibitor chemistry was identified demonstrating excellent calcite inhibition and superior brine compatibility. Furthermore, the inhibitor adsorption/desorption profiles showed that the carbonate matrix responded significantly differently to the inhibitor pH. With a normalized inhibitor MEC of 2-ppm, the core lives were 1200, 1800, and 650 PV under the same treating parameters with the main-treatment pH at 2.5, 4.5, and 7, respectively. Besides adopting the optimal pH, the treatment live was further increased to 2,800 PV using 2% squeeze enhancer in the preflush. Different from the flush-additive enhancer, the adsorption modifier was directly applied with the inhibitor. Synergistic effects were observed as the treatment lasted 2000, 2400, 2700 PV for 1%, 2%, and 5% modifier in the inhibitor package. The next steps are to conduct cost analysis among the options for an optimization, followed with formation damage evaluations using the reservoir core plugs from the formation depths. The data will be used to design the field trials.

This study shows how different parameters and chemistries can be utilized to improve the inhibitor squeeze lives for chalk reservoirs. The treatment design methodology for the chemical additive application is outlined and presented.
Mutant huntingtin induces neuronal apoptosis via derepressing the non-canonical poly(A) polymerase PAPD5
Authors: Chan Ho Yin Edwin , Peng Shaohong Isaac , Chen Zhefan Stephen , Leong Lok I , Lin Xiao , Wei Yuming , Koon Alex Chun , Huang Junzhe , SUN Jacquelyne , Kwan Kin-Ming , Chow Kim , Ko Ho , Chan Ting-Fung
Published: June 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs responsible for RNA silencing and the posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression. Poly(A) RNA polymerase D5 (PAPD5) catalyzes the addition of adenosine to the 3′ end of miRNAs, which promotes their subsequent degradation. In this study, we demonstrated that the Yin Yang 1 (YY1) protein, a transcriptional repressor of PAPD5, was recruited to both RNA foci and protein aggregates, which caused the upregulation of PAPD5 expression in Huntington’s disease (HD). We further identified a subset of PAPD5-regulated miRNAs with downregulated levels in our disease model. We focused on miR-504-5p and miR-7-5p and found that their reduction caused the activation of the TAB1/2-mediated TAK1–MKK4–JNK pro-apoptotic pathway. We further showed that this pathway was activated in HD patient induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons. In addition, we discovered that a small molecule PAPD5 inhibitor, BCH001, mitigated the cell death and neurodegeneration in our disease models. This study highlights the importance of PAPD5-mediated miRNA dysfunction in the pathogenesis of HD and as a potential therapeutic direction for the disease.
Insights into the Microbial Diversity, Functional Attributes, and Nutritional Proficiency of Yogurts Cultivated in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman M. Shaminur , Chowdhury Susmita Roy , Chakrovarty Tanay , Kador S. M. , Islam Md. Mazharul , Islam Khondoker Tanjim , Bhuiyan Mohammad Imtiaj Uddin , Islam Md. Tanvir , Islam Ovinu Kibria
Published: June 2024

Yogurt, a popular fermented food, relies on fermenting microorganisms, physicochemical parameters, and contaminants for its health benefits and shelf life. This study investigated sour and sweet yogurts in Bangladesh, analyzing 38 samples using standard methods like AOAC for proximate analysis, AAS for mineral determination, and Illumina sequencing for metagenomic analysis. Sweet yogurts had higher pH, fat, moisture, total solids (TS), solid-not-fat (SNF) content, and Streptococcus spp. Sour yogurts contained more moisture, ash, and minerals (Zn, Na, Ca, and Mg), and Lactobacillus spp. Sour yogurts showed greater bacterial diversity, including probiotics and potential pathogens like Enterobacter, Lactococcus, Aeromonas, and Acinetobacter. Commercial brands had more probiotic strains than local ones. Ash content positively correlated with Ca levels. Other bacterial genera, except Lactobacillus, correlated positively with each other, with fat content negatively affecting them. Hafnia presence in yogurt positively impacted mineral bioavailability. Nutritional values varied, with sour yogurts having higher values and bacterial diversity. Pathway analysis revealed sour yogurts' association with bacterial chemotaxis, peptidoglycan biosynthesis, and Vancomycin resistance, while sweet yogurts showed beta-lactam resistance. This underscores the nutritional and microbiological advantages of sour yogurts, guiding production and consumption choices for better health.
Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Depression and Functional Outcomes in Patients with Post Covid-19: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Alsaid Hossam Mohammed , Maher Alla Ashraf , Fahmy Ebtesam Mohamed , Darwesh Ashraf A , Abdelhakiem Nadia Mohamed , badawy Mohammad sadik , Ragab Walaa M.
Published: June 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound impacts on health and wellbeing across the globe, and patients with COVID-19 are likely to suffer from major mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Therefore, cognitive behavioral therapy can help people change unreasonable beliefs concerning COVID-19-related psychological disorders and depression symptoms, thus improving theirquality of life.
Purpose: To investigate the impact of cognitive behavioral therapy on depression and functional outcomes in post-COVID-19 patients.
Subjects and Methods: Thirty-six post-COVID-19 patients of both sexes were selected and randomized into two equal groups. The study group (A) was given cognitive behavioral therapy and a selected physical therapy program including balance and endurance training and graduated active exercises. The control group (B) was given the same physiotherapy programme alone. The treatment was conducted for one hour, with three sessions per week for twelve successive weeks. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) score was used to measure depression severity, while functional outcomes were evaluated by the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living. The measurements were performed before and after the 12-week intervention.
Results: Within-group comparisons revealed that there was a statistically significant reduction in depression as well as improvement in functional outcomes between the pre- and posttreatment conditions in Group A (P = 0.001* and 0.001*, respectively). The control group (B) showed no statistically significant differences in depression severity, but functional outcomes improved (P = 0.43* and 0.02*, respectively). Between-group comparisons revealed a statistically significant reduction in depression and improvement in functional outcomes in the study group compared to the control group after treatment (P = 0.001* and 0.001*, respectively).
Conclusion: Cognitive behavioral therapy is a beneficial therapeutic program for reducing depressive symptoms and improving functional outcomes in post-COVID syndrome patients.
Influence of the Level of Education on the Change in Cognitive Function in Parkinson´s Disease. A 5-year Follow-up Study.
Authors: García Diego Santos , Fonticoba Teresa de Deus , Bartolomé Carlos Cores , Alvarado Maria Íñiguez , Samaniego Lucía , Maside Antón López , Gallego Lucía , Barreiro Laura Couce , Caramés Javier Rodríguez , Painceiras Maria Feal , González Jose Paz , Jesús Silvia , Cosgaya Marina , Caldentey Juan García , Caballol Nuria , Legarda Ines , Vara Jorge Hernández , Cabo Iria , López-Manzanares Lydia , González-Aramburu Isabel , Rivera Asunción Ávila , Mayordomo Víctor Gómez , Nogueira Victor , García-Soto Julio Dotor , Borrue Carmen , Solano Berta , Sauco Maria Álvarez , Vela Lydia , Escalante Sonia , Cubo Esther , Mendoza Zebenzui , Pareés Isabel , Alonso Pilar Sánchez , Losada Maria Alonso , Ariztegui Nuria López , Gastón Itziar , Kulisevsky Jaime , seijo Manuel , Valero Caridad , Redondo Ruben , Buongiorno Maria , Ordás Carlos , González Manuel Menéndez , McAfee Darrian , Martinez-Martin Pablo , Mir Pablo , COPPADIS Study Group
Published: June 2024

Background and objective:
Level of Education (LoE) is widely used as an indicator of cognitive reserve and is associated with risk of dementia. The aim of the present study was to know the influence of the LoE on the change in cognitive function (CF) in patients with Parkinson´s disease (PD).
Patients and Methods:
Controls and PD patients from the Spanish cohort COPPADIS with a disease duration from symptoms onset ≤ 5 years, who were recruited from January/2016 to November/2017 (baseline visit; V0) and evaluated at 2 (V2), 4 (V4) and 5 (V5) years of follow-up were included. Regarding LoE, patients were classified as with primary, secondary and university studies. CF was assessed using the Parkinson´s Disease Cognitive Rating Scale (PD-CRS). General linear model (GLM) repeated measure was used to test for changes in the CF.
Results
Three hundred and ninety-nine PD patients (61.9 ± 8.9 years old; 58.4% males) and 207 controls (61 ± 8.3 years old; 49.8% males) were included. From V0 to V5, significant differences were observed in PD patients in global and fronto-subcortical (p < 0.0001 in all visits) between LoE groups but not in posterior-cortical (p > 0.05 in all visits) CF. LoE was associated with the change from V0 to V5 in the PD-CRS total score and fronto-subcortical sub-score (p < 0.0001) in PD patients but not in controls. Having primary studies was associated to PD dementia (PD-CRS < 65) at V5 (OR = 2.47; p = 0.035).
Conclusion
Change in cognitive function in Parkinson´s disease is influenced by the level of education.
Application of fungal biomass of the genus Pleurotus in the bioremediation of Doce River waters after the crime disaster in Mariana/MG: an analysis between the years 2015 and 2018
Authors: Santos M. P. O. , Maas A. S. Van Der , Jardim D. F. , Rodrigues J. L. , Bomfeti C. A.
Published: June 2024

The collapse of Samarco mining company's tailings dam in November 2015 is recorded as the most severe environmental calamity to ever occur in Brazil. The ensuing toxic sludge devastated towns along the Doce River, leaving an enduring legacy of socio-environmental and economic destruction. The Doce River basin continues to bear the scars of this disaster to this day. This study thus proposes to investigate the bioremediation potential of three Pleurotusspp. strains, assessing their physical-chemical parameters of pH and turbidity, as well as the ability of the tested isolates to eliminate toxic metals in solution, based on water samples collected in 2015 and 2018. The studied fungal strains tended to acidify the medium, lowering the pH of the samples. In raw water, these strains effectively removed turbidity, achieving a decline of 86.2-95.0% and 28.1-40.7% in the first and second collections, respectively. High concentrations of aluminum, arsenic, barium, lead, iron, and manganese were detected in the Doce River water samples through Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Batch system experiments showed that Pleurotus spp. could efficiently remove toxic metals from the solution in seven days of incubation, with average elimination rates ranging from 94.0-99.1% and 70.3-99.0% for the six evaluated elements in the 2015 and 2018 samples, respectively. Therefore, the findings suggest that the genus Pleurotusholds significant biotechnological promise for the bioremediation of contaminated or deteriorated waters.
The relationship between infertility and intentional delay of childbearing
Authors: sheikhian Marzie , dehcheshmeh faranak safdari - , pur Maryam lotfi , loripoor marzeyeh
Published: June 2024

Background: The use of contraceptive methods and intentional delay of childbearing and their relationship with infertility are important questions in the minds of couples and health service providers.
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between infertility and intentional delay of childbearing and the duration of contraceptive use in couples.
Materials and methods: This was a case-control study on 290 couples referring to the Al-Zahra infertility center, Shahrekord, Iran and Health Centers Number 1 and 5 of Shahrekord from May to August 2022 using a systematic random sampling method. Data were collected through a checklist and analyzed using SPSS software version 18. Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, and independent t-test were used with a significance level < 0.05.
Results: The results of the study showed that there was no difference in intentional delay of childbearing (the duration of contraceptive use) between the case and control groups. The most common contraceptive method used by both groups was the whithdrawal method. The use of condoms and OCP was significantly higher in the control group, and the use of IUD was significantly higher in the case group.
Conclusion: The results showed that the duration of contraceptive use was not associated with infertility, but the type of contraceptive was associated with infertility. This finding can also be used in the field of couples counseling. However, due to the contradictions and ambiguities in this area and the limitations of this study, further research in this field is recommended.
Biocontrol potential of native microbial strains in the management of major lepidopteran pests infesting soybean
Authors: Aruna J. , Kambrekar D. N. , Mallapur C. P. , Krishnaraj P. U. , Jahagirdar Shamarao A. , Naveen V
Published: June 2024

Soybean is the most important oilseed and pulse crop being grown in Northern Karnataka. Lepidopteran pests are major threats in decreasing the yield of the crop. So, upon consequences of using chemical insecticides, biocontrol approach is the alternate tool for managing these insect pests, which is environmental friendly and ecologically feasible in nature. The present experiment was carried out in soybean under field conditions during Kharif, 2022 and 2023 at Main Agricultural Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad-Karnataka to assess the Biocontrol potential of native microbial strains against major lepidopteran pests of soybean. Five actinobacterial isolates were evaluated along with one entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium rileyi (2.00 g/l) and spinosad 45 SC (0.2 ml/l) as a standard check. The pooled results revealed that, Streptomyces hyderabadensis (200 ml/l) has emerged as the best isolate in controlling the four lepidopteran pests of soybean during both the years of investigation which recorded lowest mean population of S. litura (2.32 larvae/mrl) Thysanoplusia orichalcea (2.52 larvae/mrl), Spilosoma obliqua (1.17 larvae/mrl) and Cydia ptychora (1.04 larvae/ 5 pods) followed by Streptomyces xiaminensis (200 ml/l). The highest soybean yield reflected with the superior isolate, S. hyderabadensis (200 ml/l) with 18.17 quintals per hectare. The secondary metabolites produced by these actinobacterial strains made them as a potential biocontrol agent in controlling the lepidopteran pests in soybean ecosystem.
Effect of Post-FSW FSP Pass on Tensile Mechanical Characteristics and Hardness of Welded Samples of AA6061 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Kazemi Mahdi , Hamidi Mohsen
Published: June 2024

Friction stir welding (FSW) is a solid-state joining process in which a rotating tool is inserted into the interface of two independent parts and the joint is established with friction and intensive plastic deformation. Most important factors contributing to the performance of FSW include welding tool geometry, joint geometry, tool rotation speed, tool compressive load bearing capacity, plunge depth, and tool traverse speed. In this research, effect of post-FSW friction stir processing (FSP) on mechanical characteristics and hardness of stir-welded samples of AA6061 aluminum alloy was investigated. To this end, thirteen series of experimental tests were performed to come up with a comprehensive analysis of different situations that may occur following the FSP pass and investigate the effects the FSP parameters on the weld quality. Results showed that the post-FSW FSP pass can significantly improve the ultimate weld strength and percent elongation in all samples. However, the highest strength improvement (10%) was achieved when the traverse direction in the FSP pass was opposite to that of the FSW pass while the rotation was set to be in the same direction as that of the welding pass. Moreover, most of the samples exhibited increased ultimate strength and percent elongation with increasing the tool traverse speed. Finally, performing the post-FSW FSP pass enhanced the weld hardness, especially when the tool traverse motion in the FSP pass was in the opposite direction to that in the welding pass while the tool rotation direction was the same in the FSW and FSP passes.
Efficacy of Anti-tubulin drug ( Paclitaxel ) as a single treatment and its combination with the commercially used drug metronidazole in the treatment of Giardiasis in the experimentally infected mice
Authors: elgendy Ashraf AHMED , Ramadan Ashraf Rizk , Farid Alyaa , Rabee Ibraheem , Amir Azza mohamed El
Published: June 2024

Giardia infection is still a medical problem in the world as yet; it is the first cause of intestinal diarrhea and its consequences. The reliance on metronidazole as a basic treatment remains despite its side effects, especially when used for longer periods due to recurring infections, so research is ongoing to find participant for metronidazole in the treatment of giardia and at the same time works to limit its side effects. Cancer patients were shown to be 1.24 fold more susceptible and were at a higher risk of infection, which should alert physicians to the possible consequences. The study represents a step to lighten the burden on cancer patients who more exposed to Giardia infection. The importance of the participation of the Paclitaxel in the therapeutic protocol, developing anti-giardial compound that target the cell division machineries of the parasite, and reduce the genotoxicity effects of metronidazole. the dual treatment (metronidazole with Paclitaxel combination), yield a significant reduction in the percentage of IgA and IgG antibodies indicating an increase in the evanescence of the antigens that stimulate the production of antibodies. It is true that the dual treatment gave less removal of the number of eggs in the stool, as well as the trophozoite than metronidazole alone, but it gave better disappearance of the pathogens which stimulate the production of antibodies and it is also and this is the most important thing that it is safer to use, especially if it is required to prolong the treatment period, this is confirmed by histopathological examination for Liver and small intestine tissue samples collected from all mice within the different groups.
Validation of new, circulating biomarkers for glioma
Authors: Chatanaka Miyo K. , Avery Lisa M. , Diamandis Eleftherios P.
Published: June 2024

Biomarkers are useful clinical tools but only a handful of them are used routinely for patient care. Despite intense efforts to discover new, clinically useful biomarkers, very few new circulating biomarkers were implemented in clinical practice in the last 40 years. This is mainly due to poor clinical performance. Here, our goal was to validate a group of newly discovered circulating biomarkers for glioma by comparing our data with data from a paper recently published in Science Advances. We analyzed our own sets of clinical samples and a different analytical assay to compare the results of Shen and colleagues. Despite the sophistication of the utilized discovery method, we found that the newly proposed biomarkers for glioma (such as SERPINA6) did not perform as expected. Scientific irreproducibility has been extensively discussed in the literature. A large proportion of newly discovered candidate biomarkers likely represent “false discovery” and contribute to irreproducible results. The best way to assess the value of any new biomarker is by independent and extensive validation. Based on our previous classification, we believe that this work represents another example of a false discovery.
Spatial evolution of soil properties in near-natural constructed wetland after 15 years of operation
Authors: Liu Chenxi , Zhai Xiajie , Cui Lijuan , Li Wei , Zhao Xinsheng
Published: June 2024

Near-nature restoration is a key research focus in the field of ecological restoration. Near-natural constructed wetlands (NCWs) play an important role in water resource purification. During the long-term operation of NCWs without intervention, their purification ability gradually weakens and the soil structure and function change. In the present study, based on the operation of NCWs for 15 years, we measured the physicochemical properties (e.g., carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus contents, water contents, and pH) and activities of enzymes (e.g., urease (URE), alkaline phosphatase (PHO), dehydrogenase, and sucrase (SUC)) at a soil depth of 0–20 cm; the levels of these parameters at different flow sections of, and different distances from, the NCW were assessed. The results showed no significant difference between the soil carbon and total nitrogen at different distances from the NCW. Further, the phosphorus and NH4+-N contents increased with the increase in distance from the wetland and were the lowest in the wetland center; further, the NO3--N content was the highest in the wetland center (p < 0.01). The soil carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus contents were the highest in the surface soil (0–5 cm) and were higher in the surface of the NCW than in the subsurface of the NCW. The activity of most enzymes decreased significantly with the increase in soil depth; the highest enzyme activities were observed on the bank of the NCW (p < 0.01). Redundancy analysis showed that soil carbon and nitrogen had a strong explanatory power for the soil enzyme activity. After long-term operation, the soil properties in the NCW showed spatial changes. The discovery of this rule is conducive to the ecological design of NCWs and will aid the protection and restoration of ecosystems subjected to the combined influence of natural and human activities.
The first prevalence and antifungal susceptibility profile of Candida infections in Palestine, 2022
Authors: Baniodeh Hanaa , Abu-Helu Rasmi , Abulihya Mohand , Awwad Mohammed Y , Dawoud Ayman , Tebbji Faiza , Sellam Adnane
Published: June 2024

Background
Candida spp. are the most common cause of opportunistic fungal infections and are associated with a high mortality rate worldwide. In Palestine, the prevalence of Candida spp. infections remains elusive.
Methods
We performed our study at two hospitals in Palestine (Istishari Arab Hospital, and Najah National University Hospital). All patients diagnosed with candidiasis during the year 2022 have participated in the study. The prevalence of Candida spp., their distribution, and the activity of selected antifungals against Candida pathogens were assessed. In combination with phenotypic properties, Candida isolates were identified and tested for antifungal susceptibility using the colorimetric VITEK-2 Compact system.
Results
Our results showed that the prevalence of Candida spp. among infected samples was 11.6%. A total of eleven different Candida spp. were identified. Among these isolates, C. albicans (46.54%) was the most frequent, followed by C. glabrata (16.14%), C. tropicalis (13.83%), C. parapsilosis (4.82%), C. krusei (3.56%), C. dubliniensis (2.09%), C. ciferrii (1.67%), C. lusitaniae (0.83%), C. guilliermondii (0.62%), C. kefyer (0.41%) and C. spherica (0.20%). Among C. albicans, all isolates were 100% susceptible to fluconazole and micafungin. The susceptibility rates to Amphotericin B and flucytosine were 95% and 99%, respectively. The susceptibility rates of non-albicans Candida spp. (NAC) to fluconazole, voriconazole, amphotericine B, caspofungin, flucytosine and micafungin were 70%, 99%, 97%, ,72%, 92% and 100%, respectively. The incidence of Candida infections was higher in the intensive care unit and surgery department as compared to other hospital departments.
Conclusions
Four pathogens are responsible for the most invasive infections: C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis. A notable characteristic of this study was the high frequency of NAC species which were often more resistant to antifungal agents. A quick and accurate system like Vitek 2 compact was suggested for the careful species identification of clinical isolates of Candida. We suggest that continued surveillance of species distribution and susceptibility to antifungals will enhance future burden estimates and assist in evaluating preventative measures' effectiveness.
Study of pressure pulsation on reactor coolant pump with staggered guide vane under coast-down condition
Authors: Deng Rui , Ye Daoxing , Chen Junlin , Zhang Junyu , Han Jiaming , Wu Mengke , Liu Binhao
Published: June 2024

To explore the impact of staggered guide vane on hydraulic characteristics of reactor coolant pump during coast-down condition, numerical methods were employed to study the reactor coolant pump equipped with staggered guide vane. The results show that the amplitude of impeller pressure pulsation can be reduced by staggered guide vane, the amplitude of pressure pulsation at guide vane inlet can be decreased, and the pressure pulsation amplitude within the volute casing can be improved. The energy of pressure pulsation generated by static and dynamic interference can be redistributed by staggered guide vane, leading to a reduction in the intensity of pressure pulsation. The maximum amplitude of radial force of impeller is located at the rotation frequency of impeller, compared with the original model, the difference of amplitude decreases as the coast-down progresses. At the start of coast-down, the radial force amplitude of impeller was reduced to 403N by the staggered guide vane, and when the coast-down flow rate decreases to 0.25Q 0 , the difference of radial force amplitude is only 22N. The radial force amplitude of impeller was effectively reduced by the staggered guide vane, and its distribution was made more uniform. However, as coast-down progresses, the improvement effect gradually diminishes.
Association Between the Method Information Index Metric and Choice of Contraceptive Method: Secondary Analysis of Data from the Women’s Integrated Sexual Health (WISH) Programme
Authors: Felix Humwa , Vernon Mochache , Musa Muga , Nancy Mberesia , Rodah Kipchumba , Hilda Mogaka , Elias Girma , Sandra Mudhune , Joyce Mumah
Published: June 2024

Introduction:
The quality and comprehensiveness of family planning (FP) counseling has largely remained unaddressed, leaving potential FP users with limited information to make informed contraceptive choice. The method information index (MII) is a metric consisting of a set of questions asked of FP service clients prior to method initiation that serves as a proxy to the quality of FP counseling in determining informed choice. The current study assessed the association between MII scores and choice of a long-acting contraception using data from client exit interview (CEI) surveys conducted during the Women’s Integrated Sexual Health (WISH) programme.
Methods
Between 2019–2022, 16,525 individuals contributed data across three CEI rounds conducted in 11 countries as part of the WISH programme. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the association between MII scores and choice of long-acting contraception.
Results
Individuals with high MII (aOR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.46–2.08) and MIIplus (aOR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.41–1.97) scores were nearly twice as likely to choose long-acting contraceptive method especially if they were single and/or multiparous.
Conclusion
Under the WISH programme, the MII metric as a proxy for quality of FP counselling, is an important predictor of choice of long-acting contraception. FP programmes should invest in building the capacity of their service providers to offer individuals with quality, comprehensive counselling to increase chances of clients voluntarily selecting a long-acting FP method.
Selective classification with machine learning uncertainty estimates improves ACS prediction: A retrospective study in the prehospital setting.
Authors: Garcia Juan Jose , Kitzmiller Rebecca , Krishnamurthy Ashok , Zègre-Hemsey Jessica K.
Published: June 2024

Accurate identification of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in the prehospital setting is important for timely treatments that reduce damage to the compromised myocardium. Current machine learning approaches lack sufficient performance to safely rule-in or rule-out ACS. Our goal is to identify a method that bridges this gap. To do so, we retrospectively evaluate two promising approaches, an ensemble of gradient boosted decision trees (GBDT) and selective classification (SC) on consecutive patients transported by ambulance to the ED with chest pain and/or anginal equivalents. On the task of ACS classification with 23 prehospital covariates, we found the fusion of the two (GBDT+SC) improves the best reported sensitivity and specificity by 8% and 23% respectively. Accordingly, GBDT+SC is safer than current machine learning approaches to rule-in and rule-out of ACS in the prehospital setting.
A Clinicopathologic Study of Glomerular Disease: A Single-Center, Ten-year Retrospective Study from Northwest India
Authors: Vagh Tanmay , Jani Nidhi , Godara Suraj
Published: June 2024

Studies published from centers across India have reported different and contradicting patterns of glomerular disease. In this retrospective study, we report our experience from a Tertiary Care Center in Northwest India. A total of 1186 renal biopsies performed between 2014 and 2023 were reviewed of which 632 were excluded from the study because the biopsies were taken from an allograft. The study included 332 males (59.92%) and 222 females (40.07%) with an age range of 08–82 years (mean 40.34 ± 5.04 years). Majority of the biopsies (99.07%) showed some form of glomerulonephritis (GN), either primary (68.88%) or secondary glomerular disease (SGD) (31.12%). Membranous nephropathy was the most common type of primary GN (24.73% of primary GN), followed by focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS); 20.96% of primary GN) and minimal change disease (MCD; 17.47% of primary GN).Amyloidosis was the most frequent SGD (44.64% of secondary GN). Lupus nephritis(LN) was found in 32.14% and TMA(Thrombotic microangiopathy) in 17.85%.
Title: Development and Content Validation of the Pediatric Dizziness Index (PDI)
Authors: Tiwari Devashish , Allen Mariah , Schulz Rebecca , Gotts Brittany , Stewart Catherine , Kaur Maninderjit
Published: June 2024

Background
Approximately, 3 million children are impacted by dizziness nationally, and as a result are at a greater risk of intellectual and learning disability. Given the wide variations between children and adults in brain morphology, maturity, and perceptions of injury impact, valid, age-specific patient reported outcome measures are crucial to capture the breadth of disability from dizziness. The purpose of this study was to develop and examine content validity of the PDI to evaluate activity limitation and participation restriction due to dizziness.
Methods
This was a cross sectional, observational study conducted primarily at an academic institute. Eight pediatric clinical and research content experts participated in the Modified Delphi Process. PDI was developed in four steps: 1) item development, 2) item evaluation, 3) content validity ratio and index calculation, and 4) cognitive interviews to ensure face validity, and comprehension of the items. A comprehensive literature search and review of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health- Children and Youth model was conducted to identify potential items. Content validation process followed the COnsensus based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) guidelines. Six children (8–16 years) participated in the cognitive interviewing. Content validity ratio (CVR) was calculated using Lawshe’s formula CVR = (ne – N/2)/N/2 (ne = number of experts identified an item as essential; N = total number of experts). Finally, content validity index (CVI) was calculated (CVI > 0.8 indicated good content validity).
Results
After two rounds of modified Delphi process, the initial item bank of 33 items was condensed to 10 items in final version of PDI. Three items on the PDI were revised post cognitive testing. The final version of PDI demonstrated good content validity (CVI = 0.87).
Conclusion
PDI is the first comprehensive patient reported measure specific to dizziness and provides evidence of strong content validity. Further research to establish factor structure and construct validity is recommended.
Surgical site infections after sarcoma resections in the peripelvic region: Do we need perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis?
Authors: Klein Alexander , Chudamani Chataut , Wieser Andreas , Goller Sophia Samira , Berclaz Luc M. , Gioia Dorit Di , Holzapfel Boris M. , Dürr Hans Roland
Published: June 2024

Background: Surgical site infections (SSI) are one of the most common complications after extensive sarcoma resections and represent a daily challenge. SSI occur in up to 50% of cases particularly in the peripelvic area. One possible approach to reduce infection rate is perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis. The aim of this study therefore was to investigate the influence of perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis on the infection rate and the possible influence of location-specific antibiotic prophylaxis with ampicillin/sulbactam.
Methods and patients: This monocentric retrospective study included 366 patients who underwent sarcoma resections in the groin, proximal thigh, or gluteal region. All patients were operated on by 2 surgeons after neoadjuvant pretreatment if necessary.
3 groups of patients were defined. Group 1: In 60.4% of all cases, antibiotic prophylaxis was administered with cephalosporins (also clindamycin in case of penicillin allergy). Group2: In 9.8% of cases, ampicillin/sulbactam was used. Group 3: 29.8% of patients did not receive any antibiotic prophylaxis. In 31.1% of treated cases, antibiotic therapy was prolonged due to extented tumor resections.
Results: Postoperative infections occurred in 23.2% (85 cases), in 77 cases within the first 90 days (on average after 20 days). The median operating time, blood loss, and tumor size were significantly higher in cases of infections, compared to patients without infection. In group 1 and 2 with perioperative single-shot prophylaxis, infection occurred in 24.1% of cases, compared to 13.5% of cases without prophylaxis (group 3) (p= 0.032). In the patients with prolonged antibiotic therapy, infection occurred in 31.6% of cases, compared to 16.3% of cases without prolongation (p< 0.001). In the ampicillin/sulbactam group, infection occurred in 19.4% of cases compared to 24.9% of cases in the cephalosporin group (p= 0.479). In univariate risk analysis, increased blood loss with erythrocyte substitution and neoadjuvant radiotherapy were proven to be risk factors for the occurrence of infections; in the multivariate analysis, neoadjuvant chemotherapy also proved to be a risk factor.
Conclusions: Perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis may reduce the risk of infection after extended sarcoma resection in the peripelvic area. However, the particular bacterial spectrum of this anatomic region should be taken into account when deciding which antibiotics to use.
Stress Responses in Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta splendens) Subjected to Commercial Confinement Rearing Practices: An Assessment in Welfare
Authors: Sintuprom Chanoknan , Nuchchanart Wirawan , Dokkaew Sahabhop , Aranyakanont Chak , Ploypan Raveewan , Shinn Andrew P. , Wongwaradechkul Ratchakorn , Dinh-Hung Nguyen , Dong Ha Thanh , Chatchaiphan Satid
Published: June 2024

Siamese fighting fish, which are subject to unique culture practices, are reared individually in confined spaces. This study aims to examine their stress responses, including blood chemistry, stress hormones, and stress-related gene expression under these commercial confinement rearing practices. The fish (mean body weight 0.12 ± 0.04 g; n = 30) were individually housed in 250 mL glass bottles containing 150 mL water for 14 days, with groups designed as control and treatment, the latter receiving 0.5% NaCl. Baseline parameters were measured before confinement, with assessments at 1, 3, 7, and 14 days. Results showed no significant differences in plasma cortisol, glucose, or hematological values between baseline and confinement (controls), except for increased plasma glucose with 0.5% NaCl (treatments) after 7 days. However, significant upregulation of stress-related genes (GR, MR, and HIF-1α) and downregulation of genes HSP70 and HSP90 were observed in confined fish. While certain genes (HSP70, GR, MR, and HIF-1α) showed significant differences after three days, these returned to baseline levels by the end of 14-day period. The addition of 0.5% NaCl significantly reduced plasma cortisol levels and the expression of certain stress-related genes, including HSP70, HSP90, GR, and MR compared to the control groups (p < 0.05). The findings suggest that current confinement methods do not cause significant stress and do not contradict established animal welfare principles. In addition, adding 0.5% NaCl to the water could be a practical and cost-effective method to reduce stress indicators during confinement, offering a viable solution for betta fish husbandry.
Fragmentation of Care in Breast Cancer: Greater than the Sum of its Parts
Authors: Freeman Hadley D. , Burke Linnea C. , Humphrey Ja’Neil G. , Wilbers Ashley J. , Vora Halley , Khorfan Rhami , Solomon Naveenraj L. , Namm Jukes P. , Ji Liang , Lum Sharon S.
Published: June 2024

INTRODUCTION: Fragmentation of care (FC, the receipt of care at > 1 institution) has been shown to negatively impact cancer outcomes. Given the multimodal nature of breast cancer treatment, we sought to identify factors associated with FC and its effects on survival of breast cancer patients. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed of surgically treated, stage I-III breast cancer patients in the 2004–2020 National Cancer Database, excluding neoadjuvant therapy recipients. Patients were stratified into two groups: FC or non-FC care. Treatment delay was defined as definitive surgery > 60 days after diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors predictive of FC, and survival was compared using Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox proportional hazards methods. RESULTS: Of the 531,644 patients identified, 340,297 (64.0%) received FC. After adjustment, FC (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.25–1.29) was independently associated with treatment delay. Factors predictive of FC included Hispanic ethnicity (OR 1.04, 95% CI: 1.01–1.07), treatment at comprehensive community cancer programs (OR 1.06, 95% CI: 1.03–1.08) and integrated network cancer programs (OR 1.55, 95% CI: 1.51–1.59), AJCC stage II (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.05–1.07) and stage III tumors (OR 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02–1.10), and HR+/HER2 + tumors (OR 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02–1.07). Treatment delay was independently associated with increased risk of mortality (HR 1.23, 95% CI 1.20–1.26), whereas FC (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.86–0.88) showed survival benefit. CONCLUSIONS: While treatment delay negatively impacts survival in breast cancer patients, our findings suggest FC could be a marker for multispecialty care that may mitigate some of these effects.
Burden of meningitis and encephalitis in Iran from 1990 to 2019: Findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study
Authors: Rasoulian Pegah , Kazemi Emadoddin , Taherkhani Tina , Niavarani Hoda , Targhi Nikaein Zabeti , Farrokhi Zahra , sajedi Aida , Memari Amirhossein , Danandeh Khashayar
Published: June 2024

Background: Meningitis and encephalitis are significant contributors to morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the trends and epidemiology of these diseases in Iran from 1990 to 2019.
Methods: Data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study were utilized to assess the epidemiology and burden of meningitis and encephalitis in Iran. This study compared these findings with those of global and Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries. Age-standardized rates for incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability (YLD) were calculated, and trends over time were analyzed.
Results: This study revealed a substantial reduction in the burden of meningitis over the observed period, with a 79.24% decrease in age-standardized DALY rates from 1990 to 2019. Encephalitis rates also decreased, though to a lesser extent. Significant disparities in disease burden were observed across different sexes and age groups, with higher rates among males and in the <5 years and ≥90 years’ age groups. Provincial disparities were also noted, with the highest age-standardized DALY rates for meningitis in provinces such as Sistan and Baluchistan, Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad, and Hamadan.
Conclusion: This study highlights the progress made in reducing the burden of meningitis and encephalitis in Iran over the past three decades. However, the observed disparities across sexes, age groups, and provinces emphasize the need for continued efforts in surveillance, prevention, and treatment to further alleviate the impact of these diseases.
An affordable and simple method for DNA extraction from agarose suitable for downstream applications
Authors: Sánchez-Flores Jesús Enrique , Sandoval-Cabrera Antonio , Alarcón-Valdés Patricia , Santillán-Benítez Jonnathan Guadalupe
Published: June 2024

DNA serves as the foundation for molecular biology, leading to the development of numerous molecular techniques. Often, these techniques necessitate the separation and visualization of specific DNA regions. Electrophoresis provides a solution for this requirement. However, the purification of DNA from agarose gels presents a significant challenge, both in terms of complexity and cost. Therefore, here we propose a protocol that is both cost-effective and efficient. GFP bands in the PJet vector were visualized and excised for DNA extraction using five treatments. Only the treatment involving TAE buffer failed, while others partially or fully dissolved the gel, aiding DNA recovery. Treatments 2, 4, and 5 showed defined bands without DNA degradation. A nested PCR confirmed the suitability of the recovered DNA for further applications, with only treatments 4 and 5 being amplified. Two additional DNA samples were successfully extracted from a 1% agarose gel using methods 4 and 5, demonstrating their effectiveness.
Exploring the role of the MUC1 mucin in human oral lubrication by tribological in vitro studies
Authors: Ammam Ianis , Pailler-Mattéi Cyril , Ouillon Lucas , Nivet Clément , Vargiolu Roberto , Neiers Fabrice , Canon Francis , Zahouani Hassan
Published: June 2024

In the context of the oral cavity, an organic layer known as the mucosal pellicle (MP) adheres to the surface of the oral epithelium, playing a pivotal role in lubricating and safeguarding oral tissues. The formation of the MP is driven by interactions between a transmembrane mucin known as MUC1, located on the oral epithelium, and salivary secreted mucin, namely MUC5B and MUC7. This study aimed to investigate the function of MUC1 and the influence of its structure on MP lubrication properties. We proposed a novel methodology to study oral lubrication based on four different models of oral epithelium on which we conducted in vitro tribological studies. These models expressed varying forms of MUC1, each possessing on of the distinct domain constituting the mucin. Mechanical parameters were used as indicators of lubrication efficiency and, consequently, of the role played by MUC1 in oral lubrication. The results from the tribological tests revealed that the presence of full MUC1 resulted in enhanced lubrication. Furthermore, the structure of MUC1 protein drive the lubrication. In conclusion, the mechanical tests conducted on our epithelium models demonstrated that MUC1 actively participates in epithelium lubrication by facilitating the formation of the MP.