bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Main Factors on Deepwater Sediments
Authors: Khitrenko Anton , Minkhatova Adelia , Orlov Vladimir , Kotunov Dmitriy , Khalilov Salavat
Published: December 2021

Western Siberia is a unique petroleum basin with exclusive geological objects. Those objects allow us to test various methods of sequence stratigraphy, systematization and evaluation approaches for reservoir characterization of deep-water sediments. Different methods have potential to decrease geological uncertainty and predict distribution and architecture of deep-water sandstone reservoir. There are many different parameters that could be achieved through analysis of clinoform complex. Trajectories of shelf break, volume of sediment supply and topography of basin influence on architecture of deep-water reservoir.

Based on general principles of sequence stratigraphy, three main trajectories changes shelf break might be identified: transgression, normal regression and forced regression. And each of them has its own distinctive characteristics of deepwater reservoir. However, to properly assess the architecture of deepwater reservoir and potential of it, numerical characteristics are necessary. In our paper, previously described parameters were analyzed for identification perspective areas of Achimov formation in Western Siberia and estimation of geological uncertainty for unexplored areas.

In 1996 Helland-Hansen W., Martinsen O.J. [5] described different types of shoreline trajectory. In 2002 Steel R.J., Olsen T. [11] adopted types of shoreline trajectory for identification of truncation termination. O. Catuneanu (2009) [1] summarize all information with implementation basis of sequence stratigraphy. Over the past decade, many geoscientists have used previously published researches to determine relationship between geometric structures of clinoforms and architecture of deep-water sediments and its reservoir quality. Significant amount of publications has allowed to form theoretical framework for the undersanding sedimentation process and geometrical configuration of clinoforms. However, there is still no relationship between sequence stratigraphy framework of clinoroms and reservoir quality and its uncertainty, which is necessary for new area evaluation.
Challenging the Status Quo Leads to Enhanced Drilling Performance
Authors: Sehsah Ossama , Bautista Sayago Oscar , Newman Tom , Mounzer Fadi
Published: December 2021

The technology described in this paper has been developed to challenge the shortcomings of the 40+ year old conventional blade stabilizer. The focus of this paper is to compare drilling performance on two lateral well sections against conventional spiral blade stabilizers. The comparison will highlight the noticeable improvement in drilling performance through analysis of relevant drilling parameters.

The new design stabilizer, referred to in this paper as Innovative Drillstring Stabilizer (IDS), can be positioned in the drill string as you would typically do with a conventional spiral blade stabilizer or roller reamer. The design, however, is considerably different. The opened profile, placement and contour of the blades are designed to enhance energy transfer and flow along the tool, improving the transportation of cuttings around the tool while minimizing the occurrences of balling up. The orientation and dome shape of the blades is designed to reduce friction and torque, reduce vibration, improve weight transfer and when slide drilling minimizing the occurrence of hanging up and motor stalls. The engineered drillstring stabilizer was deployed in two wells for trial and technology acceptance purpose. An 8" OD innovative drillstring stabilizer was used as part of a steerable motor bottom hole assembly (BHA) in an integrated operations project. An in-depth performance comparison study was conducted by a specialized and independent third party between two identical BHAs. One (BHA-1), however, included conventional spiral blade stabilizers while the other (BHA-2) adopted the innovative drillstring stabilizers.

The pioneering design of the IDS in BHA-2 contributed to reducing the overall torque and aiding in better weight transfer and drilling efficiency. It was possible to apply more weight and the energy transfer to the bit, based on mechanical specific energy (MSE) calculations, showed more efficient drilling conditions. As a result, the ROP, both rotating and sliding showed significant improvement with an overall increase of more than 30%. Better stabilization with BHA-2 aided in less vibration and no motor stalls. In addition, while pulling out of hole, lower hook loads were observed due to the enhanced hole cleaning features, improved hole condition and less friction along the string components. When back on surface no indications of balling-up were observed either.

Today, drilling related inefficiencies, in the form of low ROP, non-productive time, damages beyond repair or stuck pipe and lost in hole incidents costs the oil and gas industry millions of dollars on an annual basis. The IDS is designed and proved to address such dysfunctions and improve drilling performance and efficiency while simultaneously stimulates a lower MSE drilling environment.
Matrix Dielectric Permittivity for Enhanced Formation Evaluation
Authors: Abdallah Wael , Al-Zoukani Ahmad , Ma Shouxiang
Published: December 2021

Modern dielectric tools are often run to obtain fundamental formation properties, such as remaining oil saturation, water-filled porosity, and brine salinity. Techniques to extract more challenging reservoir petrophysical properties like Archie m and n parameters are also emerging. The accuracy and representativeness of the obtained petrophysical parameters depend on the input parameter accuracy, such as matrix permittivity. In carbonates, matrix permittivity is known to vary over a wide range, for example, limestone matrix permittivity reported in the literature ranges from 7.5 to 9.2. The main objective of the current study is to reduce matrix dielectric permittivity uncertainty for enhanced formation evaluation in carbonate reservoirs. All dielectric measurements were conducted on 1.5 in. carbonate plug samples by means of a coaxial reflection probe with a range of frequency between 10 MHz and 1 GHz. To calculate matrix mineral dielectric permittivity, sample porosity must be obtained. Stress-corrected helium porosity from routine core analysis is used and samples mineralogy and chemical composition are measured by X-Ray diffraction. Dielectric system calibration is done by utilizing several well-characterized standards with known dielectric properties. Calcite and dolomite matrix permittivity are assessed by laboratory measurements. Results of this study and based on data from 180 core plugs allowed to assess the validity of the defined errors by statistical analysis, resulting in much reduced uncertainties in carbonate rock matrix dielectric permittivity; thus enhancing formation evaluation using dielectric measurements. The current study provides better control on dielectric permittivity values used in dielectric log interpretation for limestone formations. Such knowledge will provide better confidence in interpreted data such as water-filled porosity, flushed zone salinity and water phase tortuosity.
Innovative Spinner Design Aids in Flow Characterization and Production Optimization of a Multistage Frac Well
Authors: Agrawal Gaurav , Kumar Ajit , Singh Rajvardhan , Gupta Alekh , Kundi Puneet Kanwar Singh , Mukerji Parijat
Published: December 2021

An operator working in Indian western land reservoirs, planned to develop a low-permeability, high potential reservoir with hydraulic fracturing. In the pilot project, production behavior of the initial wells was below expectation. As a diagnostic procedure few of the wells were attempted with memory coiled tubing-assisted production logging to record production log data and identify the root cause behind poor performance. Apart from the horizontal trajectory, major challenges associated with this approach included the low flow rate (150-200bbl) and expectation of frac fluid inside the wellbore due to inadequate cleaning. As a result, all the attempts for effective diagnosis were inconclusive. Moreover, absence of critical input such as individual stage frac evaluation demanded attention in order to optimize completion quality (CQ) and conclude effective fracturing and completion strategy prior to full field development planning.

Addressing the challenges and with an aim to provide the critical inputs required for reservoir characterization and production optimization, a multi-spinner production logging tool with new innovative spinner design and multi-electrical and optical sensors were proposed on cased-hole tractor in order to resolve the complex flow profiles associated with the low flow rates and horizontal well trajectory.

The newly configured spinners with innovative spinner design material lowered the spinner threshold from 2ft/min to 1ft/min for multipass logging in lab tests. It also optimized the magnetic field distribution to ensure less accretion of debris on the spinner (causing spinners to clog) without compromising measurement accuracy.

With well production being 200 bbl at the time of logging, the multi-spinner survey with innovative spinner design clearly resolved the dynamic changes across the borehole during multi bean data acquisition. Overcoming the major interpretation challenge of isolating the dynamic changes in the wellbore due to borehole trajectory and due to fracturing stage, individual stage frac flow contributions were evaluated. Stage frac productivity correlated very well with the frac operation parameters, reservoir quality and completion quality. Apart from individual contributions, key findings such as activation of few frac stages at high drawdown pressures, increasing gas contribution from toe to heel and resolving presence of leftover frac fluid in the well, exceeded the expectations set by the client in terms of the objectives vs. results.

This success clearly demonstrated that knowledge of downhole dynamics for horizontal trajectory is vital. This is not limited only to address the individual well requirement, but an integrated approach would help to optimize future wells through better understanding of reservoir productivity vs frac operation and completion quality (CQ).
The Feasibility and Acceptability of Project POWER: A Cognitive-Behavioral Mindfulness-Infused Group-Based Mental and Sexual Health Intervention Among Young Pregnant Women in Liberia
Authors: Callands Tamora A. , Hylick Kandyce , Desrosiers Alethea , Gilliam Shantesica M. , Taylor Erica N. , Hunter Josalin J. , Hansen Nathan B.
Published: December 2021

Background
Following 14 years of civil war in Liberia, war-exposure, gender-based violence, and extreme poverty have been identified as key challenges to the mental and sexual health of young pregnant women, and the health of their unborn children. Despite ongoing efforts to rebuild the country’s healthcare infrastructure, empirical research and interventions focused on addressing the consequences of war on the mental and sexual health of young pregnant women in Liberia are severely limited. To address these concerns, we developed Project POWER (Progressing Our Well-being, Emotions, and Relationships) (POWER), a mindfulness-infused cognitive-behavioral intervention for young adult pregnant women. This study sought to: 1) assess the feasibility and acceptability of POWER; and (2) determine the preliminary efficacy of POWER for improving mental and sexual health outcomes among Liberian war-exposed pregnant young adult women.
Methods
Eighty-seven women ages 18-25 years were recruited from three catchment areas in Monrovia, Liberia. Participants participated in one of two ten-session programs delivered over 5-weeks: POWER or a control group (a health education program). Feasibility and acceptability of POWER were examined using program log (e.g., the number of participants screened and enrolled, facilitator satisfaction, etc.) data from an exit interview.
Results
Preliminary efficacy of POWER’s effects on mental and sexual health outcomes was assessed using a series of four one-way repeated measures ANOVA with time and group as predictors. Analyses provided preliminary support for the feasibility and acceptability of POWER. Preliminary efficacy of POWER showed significant reductions in depression symptoms, PTSD symptoms, prenatal distress, and transactional sex over time.
Conclusions
Findings suggest that POWER may be a feasible and acceptable intervention to promote mental and sexual health for young adult pregnant women in Liberia. Future research is needed to determine the efficacy of POWER on a larger scale in Liberia.
Noninvasive Chromosome Screening for Evaluating the Clinical Outcomes of Patients With Recurrent Pregnancy Loss or Repeated Implantation Failure
Authors: Xi Haitao , Qiu Lin , Yao Yaxin , Luo Lanzi , Sui Liucai , Fu Yanghua , Weng Qiuyi , Wang Jing , Zhao Junzhao , Zhao Yingzheng
Published: December 2021

Background: This retrospective cohort study determines whether noninvasive chromosome screening (NICS) for aneuploidy can improve the clinical outcomes of patients with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) or repeated implantation failure (RIF) in assisted reproductive technology.Methods: A total of 273 women with a history of RPL or RIF between 2018 and 2021 were included in this study. We collected data of all oocyte retrieval cycles and single blastocyst resuscitation transfer cycles.Results: For the RPL patients, NICS reduced the miscarriages rate per frozen embryo transfer (FET), improved the ongoing pregnancies rate and live birth rate: 17.9% vs 42.6%, adjusted OR 0.39, 95% CI 0.16–0.95; 40.7% vs 25.0%, adjusted OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.04–3.82; 38.9% vs 20.6%, adjusted OR 2.53, 95% CI 1.28–5.02, respectively. For the RIF patients, the pregnancy rates per FET in the NICS group were significantly higher than in the non-NICS group (46.9% vs. 28.7%, adjusted OR 2.82, 95% CI 1.20–6.66).Conclusions: This study demonstrated that selection of euploid embryos through NICS can reduce the miscarriage rate of patients with RPL and improve the clinical pregnancy rate of patients with RIF. Our data suggested that NICS could be used as a diagnostic test in clinical practice.
Epidemiology of Newcastle disease in chickens of Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zegeye Asres , Temesgen Wudu , Molla Wassie , Lakew Mesfin
Published: December 2021

The objective of this systematic review was to estimate the overall pooled prevalence of Newcastle disease in chickens in Ethiopia and identify the sources of heterogeneity among and within studies. The seroprevalence of Newcastle disease was estimated using a single-group meta-analysis. Attempts were also made to identify study-level variables that could explain the heterogeneity in the apparent seroprevalence of the Newcastle disease. The findings were based on 16 published articles, 33 district-level reports and were limited to studies performed during 2005-2017. Due to the presence of heterogeneity, pooled analysis from different districts was conducted using random effects meta-analysis. The single-group summary of Newcastle disease seroprevalence in chickens was estimated to be 21.47% (19.54%-23.4%) with a 95% confidence interval. Our results indicated high inter-study variability (Cochran’s Q statistic = 196.2, true variance (τ2) = 0.36, inverse variance index (I2) = 90.0%, p<0.001). Of all variables analysed, diagnostic techniques and regions were the most significant predictors (p˂0.05) of heterogeneity. According to the diagnostic technique-based meta-analysis of random pooled prevalence, the haemagglutination inhibition test had the highest prevalence, followed by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In conclusion, the high-pooled prevalence estimates of the disease, combined with the scarcity of published data for the entire country of Ethiopia, indicate a significant data gap on the distribution of Newcastle disease in the country. While the high pooled prevalence tells the need for intervention to control the disease, there is also a need to assess the disease prevalence in all other parts of the country.
HPV 16 E6 Promotes Growth and Metastasis of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma cells in vitro
Authors: Hu Jiao Jiao , Ji Yu , Miao Ting Ting , Zheng Shi Yao , Cui Xiao Bin , Hu Jian Ming , Yang Lan , Li Feng
Published: December 2021

BackgroundEsophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most lethal malignancies. Increasing evidence has revealed that Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection may be associated with the possible etiology of ESCC. Nevertheless, the precise role of HPV in ESCC remains unclear.MethodsProliferation and apoptosis capability of ESCC cells upon infection of HPV16 E6 were detected by CCK-8 assay and Western blotting analysis. Wound healing assay and Transwell experiment were conducted to determine the ability of migration and invasion, and the mRNA expression of E6AP, p53, miR-34a was determined by real-time PCR after transfected with HPV16 E6 plasmid. ResultsIn ESCC cells, the ability of proliferation, migration and invasion were increased, and the ability of apoptosis was decreased after transfected with HPV16 E6 plasmid. Furthermore, the mRNA level of E6AP, P53 and miR-34a were decreased in HPV16 E6-transfected cell lines.Conclusions﻿Our results not only provide evidence that in ESCC, HPV16 E6 promotes cell proliferation, migration and invasion, inhibits cell apoptosis, but also suggest that there may be a correlation between E6AP, P53 and miR-34a in HPV-transfected cell lines. These findings indicated that HPV16 E6 may play an important role in the development of ESCC.
Early Onset of Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy: a Case Report
Authors: Cemortan Maria , Stavinskaia Liudmila , Sagaidac Irina , Cernetchi Olga
Published: December 2021

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a disorder characterized by pruritus and elevated liver function tests. Associated with a high incidence of adverse perinatal outcomes, ICP requires thorough attention in clinical practice. In addition, there is a high rate of stillbirth in cases of ICP. Women with ICP should be informed of the inability to predict stillbirth. Multi-disciplinary cooperation is critical for managing the condition and ensuring better pregnancy outcomes.
Evaluation in Cellulose Nanocrystals Effectiveness on Composite Film based Wound Dressing from Poly(vinyl alcohol) and Gum Tragacanth
Authors: Diem Luong Ngoc , Banerjee Indranil , Pal Kunal , Sukatta Udomlak , Rugthaworn Prapassorn , Sukyai Prakit
Published: December 2021

Biomaterial-based wound dressings were fabricated using cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) as nano-filler in a polymeric mixture of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and gum tragacanth (GT) via solution casting. Physical and chemical characteristics of neat PVA, PVA/GT and PVA/GT/CNC films with varying concentrations (2 to 10%) of CNCs were observed. Initial analysis of CNCs showed nanosized particles of 104 nm length and 7 nm width. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) illustrated cluster formations of CNCs in the polymer matrix. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry was used to confirm the chemical functional groups in the material. The presence of GT and CNCs in the polymer matrix improved water uptake and prolonged stability for 7 days. The CNCs enhanced tensile strength from 54.63 MPa to 80.39MPa. Biological properties of PVA/GT/CNC films were analyzed. Results showed that the dressing material was nontoxic to mouse fibroblast cells L929, while film loaded with betel leaf extract exhibited excellent antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus DMST 8840 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa TISTR 781, indicating that composite film was suitable for application in wound dressing.
Identification of Landslide-prone Zones Using a GIS-based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis and Region Growing Algorithm in Uncertain Conditions
Authors: beheshtifar sara
Published: December 2021

Landslides are considered to be one of the most significant natural hazards. Detection of landslide-prone zones is an important phase in landslide hazard assessment and mitigation of landslide-related losses. AHP as one of the most effective methods for GIS-based multi-criteria decision analysis is increasingly being used in susceptibility mapping. However, its weights have some degree of uncertainty that interval comparison matrix (ICM) method can be used to deal with this problem. The importance of this study is to propose an interval number distance-based region growing (IDRG) method based on ICM for the identification of landslide-prone zones in the Urmia lake basin, Iran. To assess the capability of the proposed IDRG method, a landslide susceptibility map was produced using common AHP, too. To generate the maps, the weights of nine conditioning factors were determined using both traditional pairwise comparison matrices (PCM) of the AHP method and ICM. The accuracy of the produced maps was assessed through ROC (receiver operating curve) and using a dataset of known landslide occurrences. The results indicate an improvement in accuracy of about 11% by identifying the landslide-prone zones using the IDRG method. This improvement was achieved by minimizing the uncertainty associated with criteria ranking/weighting in a traditional AHP and identifying the prone zones as areas instead of pixels.
A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial for the Effectiveness of the ‘Aibo’ Intervention Program for Distraction in Childhood Vaccination
Authors: Tanaka Kyoko , Hayakawa Maoko , Noda Chihiro , Nakamura Moemi , Nakamura Akio , Akiyama Chieko
Published: December 2021

Procedures and actions such as injections and immobilization cause pain and distress to children. In the pediatric field, there is a need for interventions and support to alleviate the pain and distress caused by such medical procedures. In recent years, the introduction of robots as a means of distraction has begun to be attempted. In this study, we conducted a non-randomized controlled trial to examine the effect of intervention using ‘aibo’, a dog-like robot which has artificial intelligence (AI), to promote distraction in children after vaccination. As a result, 57 children (32 in the intervention group) participated in the study. Results of a t-test with the control group showed that the intervention group using aibo had significantly less pain following the post-vaccination intervention than the control group using stuffed dog (Face Scale, t(55) = 2.582, p = .0125; Behavioral Observation Scale, t(55) = 2.772, p = .00759). The results support the hypothesis that the aibo intervention group will be less distressed and able to calm down more quickly after vaccination than the control group. Conclusion : AI-powered aibo interventions that allow for interactive interaction can be an effective distraction method during painful procedures such as vaccinations.
Prediction of Hydraulic Flow in the New Zohr Carbonate Reservoir, Eastern Mediterranean Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Lala Amir
Published: December 2021

A new gas reservoir includes the carbonates of upper-Cretaceous Formation in the Zohr oilfield of eastern Mediterranean Sea in Egypt. The main aim of this study is to assess the new carbonate reservoir by thin section study and estimate hydraulic flow units HFUs by smart system. This carbonate formation is now considered the most important gas reservoir in northern Egypt. In this paper five microfacies were identified based on microscope petrographic analysis. The examined rocks were formed in lagoon, shoal and open marine depositional environments. The relationships between microfacies and flow units are further evaluated in this study. The determination of such relationships have proven to be challenging due to petrographic complications arising from diagenetic processes. The correlation behind pore space percentage and permeability is important to recognize hydraulic flow in the reservoir under consideration in this study.
Low carbon transition of global power sector enhances sustainable development goals
Authors: Peng Kun , Li Jiashuo , Feng Kuishuang , Chen Bin , Shan Yuli , Zhang Ning , Wang Peng , Fang Kai , Bai Yanchao , Zou Xiaowei
Published: December 2021

Low-carbon power transition, key to combatting climate change, brings far-reaching effects on achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in terms of resources use, environmental emissions, employment, and many more. Here we assessed the potential impacts of power transition on 49 regional multiple SDGs progress under three different climate scenarios. We found that power transition could increase global SDG index score from 72.36 in 2015 to 74.38 in 2040 under the 1.5℃ scenario, compared with 70.55 and 71.44 under ‘Coal-dependent’ and ‘Middle of the road’ scenario, respectively. The power transition related global SDG progress would mainly come from switching to renewables in developing economies. Power transition also improves the overall SDG in most developed economies under all scenarios, while undermining their employment-related SDG progress. The global SDG progress would be jeopardized by power transition related international trade changes under ‘Coal-dependent’ and ‘Middle of the road’ scenario, while improved under the 1.5℃ scenario.
Soil Type Modifies the Impacts of Warming and Snow Exclusion on Carbon and Nutrient Losses
Authors: Juice Stephanie M. , Schaberg Paul G. , Kosiba Alexandra M. , Waite Carl E. , Hawley Gary J. , Wang Deane , Perdrial Julia N. , Adair E. Carol
Published: December 2021

The varied and wide-reaching impacts of climate change are occurring across heterogeneous landscapes. Despite the known importance of soils in mediating biogeochemical nutrient cycling, there is little experimental evidence of how soil characteristics may shape ecosystem response to climate change. Our objective was to clarify how soil characteristics modify the impact of climate changes on carbon and nutrient leaching losses in temperate forests. We therefore conducted a field-based mesocosm experiment with replicated warming and snow exclusion treatments on two soils in large (2.4 m diameter), in-field forest sapling mesocosms. We found that nutrient loss responses to warming and snow exclusion treatments frequently varied substantially by soil type. Indeed, in some cases, soil type nullified the impact of a climate treatment. For example, warming and snow exclusion increased nitrogen (N) losses on fine soils by up to four times versus controls, but these treatments had no impact on coarse soils. Generally, the coarse textured soil, with its lower soil-water holding capacity, had higher nutrient losses (e.g., 12-17 times more total N loss from coarse than fine soils), except in the case of phosphate, which had consistently higher losses (23-58%) from the finer textured soil. Furthermore, the mitigation of nutrient loss by increasing tree biomass varied by soil type and nutrient. Our results suggest that potentially large biogeochemical responses to climate change are strongly mediated by soil characteristics, providing further evidence of the need to consider soil properties in Earth system models for improving nutrient cycling and climate projections.
Comparison of Survival Between Unilocular Cystic and Purely Solid Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yapeng , Niu Xiaoyu , Wang Lihui , Li Yunlong , Qiao Baoping
Published: December 2021

Purpose

To evaluate clinicopathologic features and survival outcomes of unilocular cystic renal cell carcinoma (cRCC) compared with purely solid renal cell carcinoma (RCC), and to evaluate the oncologic aggressiveness of unilocular cRCC.
Methods

The relevant data of 957 patients with sporadic unilateral RCCs underwent surgical treatment in 2 institutions from Jan 2014 to Oct 2018 were obtained. We excluded multilocular cystic renal neoplasm of low malignant potential (MCRNLMP), RCCs with multilocular cysts and necrotic RCCs. 74 unilocular cRCCs were identified by pathology reports. We performed propensity score matching (PSM) and randomly selected 148 purely solid RCCs. The clinicopathologic features and survival outcomes were compared properly.
Results

After PSM, age, BMI, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and postoperative Chronic Kidney Disease grade were not significantly different. Both overall survival and cancer-specific survival of unilocular cRCCs were significantly better than the purely solid RCCs by the log-rank test. Twenty-five cases of solid RCCs were in the pT3 or pT4 stage, while no pT3 or pT4 tumors were found in unilocular cRCCs. Fuhrman grade, pT stage, lymphatic metastasis and tumor diameter were found to be independent prognostic factors.
Conclusion

Unilocular cRCCs have a lower Fuhrman grade and pathological stage and a better prognosis compared with solid RCC. Unilocular cRCCs still probably have lymphatic metastasis at diagnosis and may have postoperative metastasis, which is different from MCRNLMP. We recommend that the diagnosis of unilocular cRCC should be reflected in pathology reports. Different subtypes of cRCC should be taken into consideration in counseling and management.
Marketing and Value Addition of Artemisia Annua Species and Other Potential Medicinal Plants in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Gelgelo Gezehagn Gesese , Nunie Solomon Erifo , Mekonnen Tsegaye Bekele , Hintz Kendisha Soekardjo
Published: December 2021

Background: Medicinal plants play a pivotal role in the traditional medicine system in Ethiopia. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, domestic demand for medicinal plants has increased, particularly for Artemisia annua species. However, coupled with the secrecy nature in medicinal plant utilization, knowledge regarding marketing and value addition of medicinal plants is lacking in the literature. The objective of the present market study was to investigate the marketing and value addition of Artemisia annua and other major medicinal plants in selected towns of Southern Ethiopia. Methodology: Primary data were collected using questionnaire, focus group discussions, and personal observations with producers and traders. Marketing benefits of the potential medicinal plants were captured by total return and marketing margins. Result: The major medicinal plants in Chencha area were Artemisia annua, Stevia rebaudiana, and Silybum marianum, Echinops kebericho and Silene macrosolen Steud are widely used in Tula and Hawassa; Ocimum tenuiflorum and Ruta graveolens were found in Basha area, while Zehneria scabra was found in Chencha and Basha. The above-mentioned medicinal plants are used to treat various illnesses, while generating income to the local communities. The marketing or profit margins of the value-added products indicated a share of 28.6%, 14.36%, 14.31%, and 42.73% for producers, local collectors, and traders in Arbaminch and Addis Ababa, respectively. Conclusion: Up scaling the cultivation and commercialization of these medicinal plants has the potential to maintain the public health while providing alternative income sources for local communities in Ethiopia. In an effort to capture local value addition of medicinal plants, processing materials, market outlets, and road infrastructures should be improved.
Scalable Sulfonate-Coated Cotton Fibers as Facile Recyclable and Biodegradable Adsorbents for Highly Efficient Removal of Cationic Dyes
Authors: Li Linhua , Dou Baojie , Lan Jianwu , Shang Jiaojiao , Wang Yafang , Yu Jincheng , Ren Erhui , Lin Shaojian
Published: December 2021

Adsorbents with superior adsorption capacity and facile recyclability are viewed as promising materials for dye wastewater treatment. In this work, a novel sulfonate decorated cotton fiber as a biodegradable and recyclable adsorbent was fabricated for highly efficient removal of cationic dyes. Herein, the poly(sodium p-styrenesulfonate-co-N-methylol acrylamide) (P(SSNa-co-NMAM)) with SSNa units as adsorption sites and NMAM units as thermal-crosslinking points was synthesized for modification of cotton fibers in a large scale at high temperature (160 oC). The various characterization investigations confirmed the successful construction of the P(SSNa-co-NMAM) coated cotton fibers (PCF). As expected, the as-obtained adsorbent presented outstanding adsorption performance toward cationic dyes in the both static and dynamic states, even in the synthetic effluent. The adsorption processes of cationic dyes onto the PCF were well fitted by the Langmuir isotherm model and Pseudo-second-order kinetics, respectively. The thermodynamics study showed that the adsorption reaction of the cationic dyes onto PCF was a spontaneous and endothermic process. The maximum adsorption capacities of PCF toward MEB, RhB and MG were 3976.10, 2879.80 and 3071.55 mg/g, respectively. The responsible adsorption of dyes ontothe PCF was electrostatic interaction. Moreover, the adsorption capacity of PCF toward cationic dyes was slight influenced by pH value of solution, because of the stable feature of sulfonate moiety in acid and alkali. In addition, the as-prepared PCF exhibited satisfactory recyclability and reusability. Given the aforementioned results, the as-obtained PCF is a promising adsorbent with great potential for practical application in the dye-contaminated wastewater remediation.
Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Ameliorates Lipid Metabolic Abnormalities in Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Wang Pengrui , Jiao Shouhai , Sun Li , Sun Helin , Wang Cunzhi , Sun Hengyi , Zhang Zhongwen
Published: December 2021

Background: Patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) were often accompanied with dislipidemia. Gynostemma pentaphyllum can ameliorate insulin resistance and reduce the synthesis of triglycerides and cholesterol, but the underlying mechanism is still unclear. Therefore, we used the network pharmacologic strategies to evaluate potential therapeutic effects and protective mechanisms of gynostemma pentaphyllum on diabetic kidney disease. Methods: Gynostemma pentaphyllum's potential targets were predicted using the TCMSP databases. The pathogenic factors involved in DKD and dislipidemia were screened by the OMIM and Gene Cards databases. The common targets of gynostemma pentaphyllum, DKD and dislipidemia were used to establish a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were used to explore the potential molecular pathways. Results: The key targets for the therapeutic effects of gynostemma pentaphyllum included IL-6, AKT1, VEGFA, PTGS2, CCL2 and CASP3. Enrichment analysis showed that the underlying mechanism were mainly the involved in inhibition of inflammatory response, negative regulation of apoptotic process and angiogenesis. TNF, PI3K-Akt, and HIF-1 signaling pathways were considered as the key pathways. Conclusion: Gynostemma pentaphyllum played a therapeutic role in DKD complicated with dislipidemia, mainly through influencing inflammation response, apoptosis and angiogenesis.
Safety and Efficacy of Hypo Fractionated Stereotactic Radiosurgery in Facial Nerve Schwannoma: a Single Institution Retrospective Case Series
Authors: Fatima Nida , Dine Anna La , Barnard Zachary R , Ko Katherine , Peng Kevin , Slattery William H , Lekovic Gregory P
Published: December 2021

Background: In the current era of modern neurosurgery, the treatment strategies have been shifted to “nerve-preservation approaches” for achieving a higher facial and hearing function preservation rate following facial nerve tumors.Objective: We have conducted this novel report on determining the outcome of patients with facial nerve schwannomas (FNS) treated with hypo fractionated stereotactic radiosurgery (hfSRS).Methods: Retrospective chart review of a prospectively maintained database search was conducted. Patients who underwent hfSRS CyberKnife (Accuray Inc, Sunnyvale, California., USA) for FNS were included. Outcomes consisted of tumor control, facial and hearing nerve function as graded by House-Brackmann (HB) and Gardner-Robertson scale, and adverse radiation effects. SPSS 23 was used to perform statistical analysis.Results: With an institutional board review approval, we retrospectively identified 5 patients with FNS [4 intracranial (80%) and 1 extracranial (20%)] treated with hfSRS (2011-2019). Patients received definitive SRS in 3 patients (60.0%) wile adjuvant to surgical resection in 2 patients (40.0%). A median tumor volume of 7.5 cm3 (range, 1.5-19.6 cm3) received a median prescription dose of 23.2 Gy (range, 21-25 Gy) administered in median of 3 fractions (range, 3-5 session). With a median radiographic follow-up of 31.4 months (range, 13.0-71.0 months) and clinical follow-up of 32.6 months (range, 15.1-72.0 months), the local tumor control was 100.0%. At last clinical follow-up, the facial nerve function improved or remained unchanged HB I-II in 80.0% of the patients, while the hearing nerve function improved or remained stable in 100.0% (Gardner-Robertson I-II) of the patients. Temporary clinical toxicity was seen in 3 patients (60.0%) which resolved. None of the patient developed adverse radiation effect.Conclusion: From our case series, hfSRS in FNS seems to be safe and efficacious in terms of local tumor control, and improved facial and hearing nerve function.
Paeoniflorin Ameliorates Cognitive Impairment in Parkinson’s Disease via JNK/p53 Signaling
Authors: He Zhu-qing , Huan Peng-fei , Wang Li , He Jian-cheng
Published: December 2021

Paeoniflorin (PF) has numerous benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis effects. It also exhibits neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) via the ROS-JNK-p53 pathway. However, it is not clear if it has neuroprotective effects against cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Through network pharmacology, we identified probable targets as well as signal pathways through which PF might affect cognitive impairment in PD. Then, we experimentally validated our findings. The core genes of the PPI network include MAPK8 (JNK), TP53, CASP3 (caspase-3), protein-95 (PSD95), and SYN. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that genes involved in apoptosis and MAPK signaling were significantly enriched. Because JNK is a key mediator of p53-induced apoptosis, we wondered if JNK/p53 pathway influences the effects of PF against apoptosis in mouse model of PD. Molecular docking analysis showed that PF had good affinity for JNK/p53. The results of the experiments indicated that PF ameliorated behavioral impairments and upregulated the expression of the dopamine (DA) neurons, suppressed cell apoptosis in substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) of PD. Additionally, PF improved MPTP-induced neuronal injury by inhibiting apoptosis in hippocampal neurons of the CA1 and CA3, and upregulating postsynaptic density PSD95 as well as synaptophysin (SYN) protein levels. Similar protective effects were observed upon JNK/p53 pathway inhibition using SP600125. Overall, PF improved cognitive impairment in PD by inhibiting JNK/p53 signaling pathway.
Preferred Offloading Modalities for Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers in Private Clinical Settings: A Survey of Australian Podiatrists
Authors: Erasmus Adriaan , Melek Michael , Ho Malia
Published: December 2021

Background Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes mellitus. Neuropathy predisposes patients to diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) due to the loss of protective sensation and associated deformities. Management of foot ulcers are multifactorial, but pressure offloading can be considered as one of the most important aspects of management. According to IWGDF Guidelines, non-removable knee-high offloading devices are recommended as the 1st line of treatment for these ulcers. However, this is a very underutilised treatment modality. This study aimed to evaluate the practitioner preferred offloading modalities and reasons for their preference. Methods This project was approved by the university’s human research ethics committee. An online survey was distributed amongst Australian podiatrist via an industry related social media group. The survey collected simple demographical information, management strategies, preferred offloading modalities for the management of diabetic foot ulcers and reasons for their preferred method. Results Sixty-three podiatrists completed the survey with the majority practicing in private clinics. All practitioners treat diabetic foot ulcers regularly with most participants treating up to ten ulcer cases per week and 14% of participants treating more than 20 ulcers per week. Contrary to the IWGDF guidelines, standard therapeutic footwear was the most preferred method of management for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers, with ease of use reported as the main reason for practitioners using this modality. Non-compliance to the use of non-removable knee-high offloading devices include perceived patient non-compliance and poor tolerance. Conclusion This study shows that practitioners’ offloading strategies do not adhere to the IWGDF guidelines. The reasons for not adhering to the guidelines seems to be a clinical practicality rather than evidence-based practice. Reasons for choosing a management strategy is multi-factorial (not just reducing plantar pressures). Further studies may be required to evaluate the effectiveness of therapeutic footwear in ulcer healing, taking into consideration other factors such as practitioner and patient preference, clinical practicality, and access to support. Based on the findings, this study provides suggestions on how to overcome the barriers that prevent podiatrist from adhering to the recommendations of the IWGDF when selecting offloading devices in general clinical practice.
Association of Aortic Distensibility and Left Ventricular Function in Patients With Stenotic Bicuspid Aortic Valve and Preserved Ejection Fraction: A CMR study
Authors: Pan Yijun , Lin Jiang , Wang Yongshi , Li Jun , Xu Pengju , Zeng Mengsu , Shan Yan
Published: December 2021

To determine the relationship between aortic distensibility and left ventricular (LV) remodeling, myocardial strain and blood biomarkers in patients with stenotic bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) and preserved ejection fraction (EF) by cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). 43 stenotic BAV patients were prospectively selected for 3.0T CMR. Patients were divided into LV remodeling group (LV mass /volume ≥ 1.15, n=21) and non-remodeling group (LV mass/volume < 1.15, n=22). Clinical characteristics, biochemical data including cardiac troponin T(cTNT), N-terminal pro-B type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and creatine kinase isoenzyme were noted. Distensibility of middle ascending aorta (mid-AA) and proximal descending aorta, LV structural and functional parameters, global and regional myocardial strain were measured. Compared to non-remodeling group, LV remodeling group had significantly decreased LV global strain (radial: 26.04±8.70 % vs. 32.92±7.81 %, P=0.009; circumferential: -17.20±3.38 % vs. -19.65±2.34 %, P=0.008; longitudinal: -9.13±2.34 % vs. -11.63±1.99 %, P＜0.001), while radial and circumferential strain were significantly reduced at the base (radial: 28.52±9.47 % vs. 39.65±10.33 %, P=0.001; circumferential: -14.45±2.97 % vs. -17.22±2.38 %, P=0.002), longitudinal strain was significantly reduced at all regions (basal: -5.79±3.43 % vs. -8.65±2.42 %, P=0.003; mid: -8.62±2.21 % vs. -11.33±2.58 %, P=0.001; apical : -12.79±2.49 % vs. -15.04±2.20 %, P=0.003). In addition, mid-AA distensibility was independently associated with LV remodeling (β=-0.282, P=0.003), and it was also significantly correlated with LV global strain (radial: r=0.392, P=0.009; circumferential: r=-0.348, P=0.022; longitudinal: r=-0.333, P=0.029), cTNT (r=-0.333, P=0.029) and NT-proBNP (r= -0.440, P=0.003). In this cohort with stenotic BAV and preserved EF, mid-AA distensibility is found significantly associated with LV dysfunction, which may be an important factor for predicting adverse cardiovascular events and a potential therapeutic target to prevent heart failure.
Neurochemical profiles of the anterior temporal lobe predict response of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on semantic processing
Authors: Jung JeYoung , Williams Stephen , Nezhad Faezeh Sanae , Ralph Matthew Lambon
Published: December 2021

The effect of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation can vary considerably across individuals, but the reasons for this still remain unclear. Here, we investigated whether the response to continuous theta-burst stimulation (cTBS) – an effective protocol for decreasing cortical excitability – related to individual differences in glutamate and GABA neurotransmission. We applied cTBS over the anterior temporal lobe (ATL), a hub for semantic representation, to explore the relationship between the baseline neurochemical profiles in this region and the response to this stimulation. Our experiments revealed that non-responders (subjects who did not show an inhibitory effect of cTBS on subsequent semantic performance) had higher excitatory-inhibitory balance (glutamate + glutamine/GABA ratio) in the ATL, which led to up-regulated task-induced regional activity as well as increased ATL-connectivity with other semantic regions compared to responders. These results disclose that the baseline neurochemical state of a cortical region can be a significant factor in predicting responses to cTBS.
Barriers and Facilitators to Implementing a Stepped Care Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia in Cancer Patients: A Qualitative Study.
Authors: Savard Josée , Filion Catherine , Gagnon Marie-Pierre , Caplette-Gingras Aude , Bélanger Lynda , Morin Charles M.
Published: December 2021

BackgroundInsomnia affects between 30 to 60% of cancer patients and tends to become chronic when left untreated. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is the recommended first-line treatment for cancer-related insomnia. Yet, this treatment is not readily accessible. A stepped care intervention beginning with a self-administered (web-based) intervention appears to be a promising cost-effective approach to offer CBT-I in routine cancer care as compared to a standard face-to-face therapy. This qualitative study investigated current practices in the assessment and management of insomnia in five hospitals offering cancer care and identified the barriers and facilitators to the implementation of a stepped care CBT-I in these clinical settings.MethodsNine focus groups composed of a total of 43 clinicians (e.g., physicians, nurses, nurse navigators, technologists, psychologists) and administrators, as well as 10 cancer patients were held. The Consolidated Framework for Implementing Research was used to develop the semi-structured interview and analyze the data.ResultsSleep difficulties are not systematically discussed in clinical practice and when a treatment is offered, most often, it is a pharmacological one. Based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementing Research, barriers to the implementation of a stepped care CBT-I included individual characteristics (e.g. lack of knowledge about CBT-I among cancer care providers, patients’ comorbidities and preferences); intervention characteristics (e.g., lack of internet access); inner setting characteristics (e.g., lack of time and resources, resistance to change); and process factors (e.g., need for prior training and engagement of all stakeholders). Facilitators were related to individual characteristics (e.g. strong beliefs in the efficacy of CBT-I); intervention characteristics (e.g. web-based format that increases accessibility at a lower cost, short- and long-term effects of CBT-I); and process factors (e.g. high motivation and commitment to offer a new service to patients).Conclusions﻿This qualitative study confirms the need to better address insomnia in routine cancer care and suggests that, while some barriers were mentioned, the implementation of a stepped care CBT-I is feasible provided that some conditions are met such as prior training and engagement of all stakeholders from the outset.