bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sub-chronic treatment with high doses of ascorbic acid reduces lead levels in hen eggs intentionally exposed to a concentrated source of lead: a pilot study
Authors: Shawahna Ramzi , Zyoud Ahed , Yahia Elaf Haj , Sulieman Rahma , Haddad Abeer , Makhlof Mohammad , Abu-Hilal Bilal , Murtaza Ghulam , Hilal Hikmat
Published: March 2020

Background

Hen eggs contaminated with lead can be harmful to the health of children and adults. The objective of this pilot study was to investigate if sub-chronic treatment with ascorbic acid can reduce lead levels in the different parts of hen eggs after intentionally exposing the laying hens to a concentrated source of lead.

Methods

Clinically normal mixed-breed egg laying hens (n = 18) were used in this pilot study. Hens were exposed to a concentrated source of lead (200 mg/kgbody weight/day lead acetate) for 1 week. Subsequently, egg laying hens were either treated with sub-chronic doses of ascorbic acid (500 mg/kgbody weight/day) or left untreated for 4 weeks. Lead levels were assessed in egg-shell, egg-albumen, and egg-yolk samples using a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer.

Results

Lead levels increased significantly (p-value < 0.01) from baseline in egg-yolk, egg-albumen, and egg-shell samples following 1 week exposure to lead acetate. Sub-chronic treatment of egg laying hens with high doses of ascorbic acid could bring statistically significant reduction (p-value < 0.01) in lead levels in egg-yolk, egg-albumen, and egg-shell samples after intentional exposure to a concentrated source of lead.

Conclusions

Findings of this pilot study showed that sub-chronic treatment of egg laying hens with ascorbic acid can reduce lead levels in different egg parts after intentional exposure to a concentrated source of lead. Supplementing feedstuffs and water with sources of ascorbic acid could be beneficial in reducing lead levels in hen egg tissues following environmental exposure. Further studies are still required to investigate if ascorbic acid can reduce lead levels in other chicken tissues.
New uracil analog U-332 is an inhibitor of NF-κB in 5-fluorouracil-resistant human leukemia HL-60 cell line
Authors: Długosz-Pokorska Angelika , Pięta Marlena , Kędzia Jacek , Janecki Tomasz , Janecka Anna
Published: March 2020

Background

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is an antimetabolite that interferes with DNA synthesis and has been widely used as a chemotherapeutic drug in various types of cancers. However, the development of drug resistance greatly limits its application. Overexpression of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters in many types of cancer is responsible for the reduction of the cellular uptake of various anticancer drugs causing multidrug resistance (MDR), the major obstacle in cancer chemotherapy. Recently, we have obtained a novel synthetic 5-FU analog, U-332 [(R)-3-(4-bromophenyl)-1-ethyl-5-methylidene-6-phenyldihydrouracil], combining a uracil skeleton with an exo-cyclic methylidene group. U-332 was highly cytotoxic for HL-60 cells and showed similar cytotoxicity in the 5-FU resistant subclone (HL-60/5FU), in which this analog almost completely abolished expression of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter, multidrug resistance associate protein 1 (ABCC1). The expression of ABC transporters is usually correlated with NF-κB activation. The aim of this study was to determine the level of NF-κB subunits in the resistant HL-60/5-FU cells and to evaluate the potential of U-332 to inhibit activation of NF-κB family members in this cell line.

Methods

Anti-proliferative activity of compound U-332 was assessed by the MTT assay. In order to disclose the mechanism of U-332 cytotoxicity, quantitative real-time PCR analysis of the NF-κB family genes, c-Rel, RelA, RelB, NF-κB1, and NF-κB2, was investigated. The ability of U-332 to reduce the activity of NF-κB members was studied by ELISA test.

Results

In this report it was demonstrated, using RT-PCR and ELISA assay, that members of the NF-κB family c-Rel, RelA, RelB, NF-κB1, and NF-κB2 were all overexpressed in the 5-FU-resistant HL-60/5FU cells and that U-332 potently reduced the activity of c-Rel, RelA and NF-κB1 subunits in this cell line.

Conclusions

This finding indicates that c-Rel, RelA and NF-κB1 subunits are responsible for the resistance of HL-60/5FU cells to 5-FU and that U-332 is able to reverse this resistance. U-332 can be viewed as an important lead compound in the search for novel drug candidates that would not cause multidrug resistance in cancer cells.
Risk factors for renal toxicity after inpatient cisplatin administration
Authors: Galfetti Elena , Cerutti Alessandra , Ghielmini Michele , Zucca Emanuele , Wannesson Luciano
Published: March 2020

Background

After several decades, cisplatin continues to be an essential drug for the treatment of several tumors, however, its potential nephrotoxicity is still a clinically relevant issue. Identification of predisposing factors for renal toxicity could be of value to warrant prophylactic measures.

Methods

We analyzed data from 198 patients with various tumor types, treated with cisplatin containing regimens in our regional cancer center in a two-years period. Assessed variables included age, gender, smoking status, alcohol consumption, tumor type, prior or concomitant anticancer treatment, cisplatin dose, time-interval between cycles, number of cycles, concomitant nephrotoxic drugs or radiotherapy and co-morbidities. We divided cisplatin nephrotoxicity in two categories: transient and permanent. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed in order to define statistical associations.

Results

Cisplatin discontinuation rate was 27,7%, of which, 8.1% was due to renal toxicity. A total of 74 and 21 patients developed transient and permanent nephrotoxicity, respectively. At univariable analysis cirrhosis (p = 0.027), hypertension (p = 0.020), alcohol intake (p = 0.030) and number of cycles < 4 (p = 0.002) were significantly associated with transient renal toxicity, while at the multivariable analysis, a statistical significance was detected for cirrhosis (p = 0.009), hypertension (p = 0.009) and a total number of cycles < 4 (p = 0.003). Regarding permanent renal toxicity, a concomitant administration of NSAIDs was significant at univariable analysis (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Relevant risk factors for the development of transient nephrotoxicity were defined. Patients presenting these baseline characteristics may require more frequent post-cycle check-up visits and hydration treatment should be guaranteed as soon as a reduction of creatinine clearance is detected.
The Girl in the Spotlight: Vermeer at work, his materials and techniques in Girl with a Pearl Earring
Authors: Vandivere Abbie , Wadum Jørgen , Leonhardt Emilien
Published: March 2020

The 2018 technical examination project The Girl in the Spotlight aimed to characterise the materials and techniques that Johannes Vermeer used to paint Girl with a Pearl Earring (c. 1665, Mauritshuis). Five research questions guided the micro- and macro-scale analyses: What can we find out about layers beneath the surface? What steps did Vermeer take to create the painting? Which materials did Vermeer use and where did they come from? Which techniques did Vermeer use to create subtle optical effects? What did the painting look like originally, and how has it changed? This paper concludes the special issue of Heritage Science by summarising the results and putting them in an art-historical and materials history context. Non-invasive macroscopic imaging methods were used to examine the Girl, in conjunction with the (re)analysis of microscopic samples. Here, Vermeer’s painting techniques are revealed using microphotographs made using a high-resolution 3D digital microscope at 140× magnification (1.1 μm/pixel).
Conceptual framework of STEM based on Japanese subject principles
Authors: Yata Chikahiko , Ohtani Tadashi , Isobe Masataka
Published: March 2020

Background

School education should improve science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) ability not only in science and mathematics but also in technology and engineering. However, practice and research are being conducted without clear definitions and methods for STEM education. Moreover, the positioning and characteristics of the technology included in each STEM field are unclear. Therefore, it is necessary to propose an appropriate framework for practice of STEM from the viewpoint of technology education. In response to this need, this commentary proposes a conceptual framework for the appropriate practice of STEM education.

Results

First, we referred to the perspectives and thinking styles of the fields of science, technology, and mathematics in the Japanese curriculum to specify the approach of the education system to each subject included in STEM. Next, to determine the concept of engineering in STEM education, we referred to the definition of engineering presented in Japan, the USA, and the UK. We positioned engineering, which means creating structures, processes, systems, etc., as a practical STEM activity and attempted to relate it to the unique perspectives and thinking styles of mathematics, science, and technology.

Conclusion

We proposed a conceptual framework for the appropriate practice of STEM education based on the principles of subjects in the Japanese curriculum. The conceptual framework suggests that a means to improve the practice of STEM education is to retain the principles of science, technology, and mathematics in the activity of engineering. It can be inferred that the key point for practicing STEM education is to examine and design the appropriate order and combination of the learning process and activities based on the proposed conceptual framework. Although this framework is theoretical, it can be useful in determining an adequate practice of STEM education and clarifying the relationship between STEM education and technology education.
Formation of ferroan dacite by lunar silicic volcanism recorded in a meteorite from the Moon
Authors: Nagaoka Hiroshi , Fagan Timothy J. , Kayama Masahiro , Karouji Yuzuru , Hasebe Nobuyuki , Ebihara Mitsuru
Published: March 2020

An igneous clast from the Northwest Africa 773 (NWA 773) clan of lunar meteorites formed by silicic volcanism on the Moon. The clast was identified in Northwest Africa 2727 (NWA 2727), which is included in the NWA 773 clan. Over 80 mode% of the clast consists of silica + plagioclase + K-Ba-feldspar. The silica phases cristobalite, tridymite, and quartz are all present in the clast, indicating rapid cooling at low pressure in agreement with a volcanic setting. This clast is characterized as a dacite on the basis of mineral modes and whole-rock chemical composition. Olivine and pyroxene in the clast have high Fe/Mg ratios (olivine Fe# > 99, pyroxene Fe# > 99; with Fe# = molar Fe/(Fe + Mg) × 100), suggesting crystallization from a residual liquid after fractionation of more magnesian silicates. The clast is similar in some respects to ferroan gabbro alkaline-phase-ferroan (FG/ARFe) clasts that are inferred to be co-magmatic with olivine gabbro (OG) and other mafic lithologies of the NWA 773 clan. However, the high silica concentration and dominance of apatite as the main Ca-phosphate (no merrillite was identified) are distinct from the FG/ARFe clasts. Thus, the dacite clast probably crystallized in a magmatic setting that was independent of the OG and FG/ARFe lithologies. The mafic major element composition, young age, and high KREEP-content of the NWA 773 clan have been used previously to infer an origin from the Procellarum-KREEP terrane (PKT) on the nearside of the Moon. Several candidates for silicic volcanism/plutonism have been identified in the PKT (e.g., Gruithuisen Domes, Hansteen alpha, Lassell Massif). The presence of the dacite lithology provides additional support for an origin in or around PKT for meteorites of the NWA 773 clan, and for complex igneous activity in PKT region.
Effect of orthokeratology on precision and agreement assessment of a new swept-source optical coherence tomography biometer
Authors: Shu Bao , Bao Fangjun , Savini Giacomo , Lu Weicong , Tu Ruixue , Chen Haisi , Song Benhao , Wang Qinmei , Huang Jinhai
Published: March 2020

Background

To evaluate the effect of orthokeratology on precision of measurements in children using a new swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) optical biometer (OA-2000), and agreement between its measurements and those provided by the commonly used IOLMaster based on partial coherence interferometry (PCI).

Methods

This study recruited fifty-one eyes of 51 normal children (8–16 years). An operator took measurements with the two biometers. Then, a second operator took measurements with the SS-OCT biometer. After orthokeratology was performed for one month, the same operators repeated the same procedures. Axial length (AL), mean keratometry (Km) at 2.5 mm and 3.0 mm diameters (Km2.5 and Km3.0), central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT) and corneal diameter (CD) were analyzed.

Results

With the SS-OCT optical biometer, the test-retest repeatability of AL measurements was < 0.06 mm. For all parameters, the coefficients of variation were < 1.23% and the intraclass correlation coefficients were > 0.95. The 95% limits of agreement of difference between the two devices for CD parameter were up to 1.53 mm. After orthokeratology, the fluctuation ranges of difference for Km3.0 measurement was 1.11 times higher than before orthokeratology, while the absolute values of difference for AL, Km2.5, ACD and CD measurements were comparable.

Conclusions

Before and after orthokeratology, the SS-OCT biometer showed high repeatability and reproducibility for all measurements. Wearing orthokeratology contact lenses affected the agreement between SS-OCT and PCI biometers for Km3.0 measurements. The CD measurement showed poor agreement between the two devices.
Fabrication and characterization of tretinoin-loaded nanofiber for topical skin delivery
Authors: Khoshbakht Saba , Asghari-Sana Farzin , Fathi-Azarbayjani Anahita , Sharifi Yaeghob
Published: March 2020

Background

Tretinoin or all-trans retinoic acid is used in the treatment of acne vulgaris and photo-aging. This work aims to develop tretinoin-loaded nanofibers as a potential anti-acne patch and to investigate its physicochemical characteristics.

Method

Nanofibers were produced via electrospinning method and surface topography was evaluated by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). The functional groups of polymer and the drug molecule and the possible interactions were studied by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Drug release studies were carried out by total immersion method at 25 °C and 32 °C. Tretinoin stability was evaluated at room temperature and fridge for 45 days. The possibility of synergistic antibacterial activity of tretinoin and erythromycin combination was investigated on Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC® 25923™) and (ATCC® 29213™) by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method.

Results

Uniform fibers without drug crystals were fabricated via electrospinning. Drug-loaded nanofibers show inherent stability under various storage conditions. Electrospun nanofibers showed a prolonged release of tretinoin. The stability of formulations in FT was higher than RT. Disc diffusion tests did not show any synergism in the antibacterial activity of erythromycin when used in combination with tretinoin.

Conclusion

It can be anticipated that the easy fabrication, low costs and dosing frequency of the construct reported here provide a platform that can be adapted for on-demand delivery of tretinoin.

Graphical abstract
Parenting Science Gang: radical co-creation of research projects led by parents of young children
Authors: Collins Sophia , Brueton Rebecca , Graham Tamasin Greenough , Organ Stephanie , Strother Amy , West Sarah Elizabeth , McKendree Jean
Published: March 2020

Background

Parents are increasingly searching online for information supported by research but can find it difficult to identify results relevant to their own experiences. More troublingly, a number of studies indicate that parenting information found online often can be misleading or wrong. The goal of the Parenting Science Gang (PSG) project was to use the power of the Internet to help parents ask questions they wanted to have answered by scientific research and to feel confident in assessing research evidence.

Methods

By using Facebook to recruit groups and facilitate interactions, PSG was able to engage fully the target public of parents of young children in the radical co-production of scientific studies, while not creating an undue burden on time or restricting participants due to disability, financial status or location. By giving parents true partnership and control of creation of projects, PSG ensured that the chosen questions were ones that were of most relevance and interest to them.

Results

This paper presents a summary of eight projects, with three in more detail, designed and implemented by PSG Facebook groups in collaboration with experts. Most projects had health related themes, often prompted by dissatisfaction with treatment of parents by health professionals or by feelings of being marginalised by pregnancy and motherhood, as well as by the lack of evidence for their questions and concerns. The PSG approach meant that these frustrations were channelled into actions. All eight of the PSG groups engaged in meaningful interactions with experts and co-produced studies with the groups defining the questions of interest.

Conclusions

This radically user-led design meant that the PSG staff and the collaborating experts had to live with a high degree of uncertainty. Nevertheless, PSG achieved its goal of academically productive, truly co-produced projects, but as important were the positive effects it had on many of the participants, both parents and experts. At the point of writing this paper, PSG projects have led to outputs including at least eight papers published, in press or in preparation, seven conference presentations, testimony to the Infant Feeding All-Party Parliamentary Group, and with more to come.
Circular RNA: functions, applications and prospects
Authors: Lu Minghon
Published: March 2020

Following improvement and integration of novel genome sequencing techniques, a new stage light has been shone upon circular RNAs (circRNA) in regard to their structure and functionality. In comparison to their linear counterparts, circRNA possess a multitude of remarkable functions such as microRNA (miRNA) sponging, RNA-binding protein (RBP) regulation and translational capabilities whose research have recently gained traction. Comprehensive computational modelling and analysis have revealed the relationship between the sequence composition of circRNAs and their biogenesis and structural formation as well as spatial identification. Due to fluctuations in expressional activity in tissue-specific environments and stimulations by tumour cells, circRNAs have sparked considerable interest in being employed as plausible biomarkers in disease control and treatment as consequence of their impressive specificity and biocompatibility. Additionally, an increasing number of studies have proposed them as viable solutions to be just as competent as presently used disease markers and medicine, if not better. In this review, I briefly summarized the characteristics, biogenesis and function of circRNA and introduced the potential applications and prospects of circRNA. With vigorous research being carried out regarding their still unclear diversified roles and precise molecular structure, circRNAs are bound to become the new revolutionary perspective on cellular regulation, protein signalling and disease pathogenesis.
Field evaluation of botanicals extracts for suppressing the mango scale insect, Aulacaspis tubercularis (Newstead) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae)
Authors: Siam Amany , Othman Etemad
Published: March 2020

Insecticidal property of aloe, ginger, garlic, and hot pepper extracts were evaluated in the form of alone spray or in combination of two plant sources or as a mixture of all plant extracts in comparison to the insecticide Lambda on the mango scale insect,Aulacaspis tubercularis(Newstead) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae). Field experiments were carried out at Fayoum Governorate, Egypt, in February 2017 and March 2018. Results revealed that Lambda insecticide decreased the population of treatedA. tubercularis, and the total reduction rates reached to 62.0 and 72.52% in seasons 2017 and 2018, respectively. Meanwhile, the used botanical mixture caused 83.60 and 72.52% reduction of the scale insects in the respective seasons. Also, results revealed that the combination of garlic and aloe was the most effective one in reducingA. tubercularisin the two successive seasons by 58.71 and 59.93%, respectively. The hot pepper was the least effective one in reducing population with the rates of 19.48% in season 2017 and 21.51% in season 2018.
Endophytic establishment of Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae in maize plants and its effect against Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae
Authors: Ramos Yordanys , Taibo Alberto Daniel , Jiménez Jorge Ariel , Portal Orelvis
Published: March 2020

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the artificial establishment ofBeauveria bassianaandMetarhizium anisopliaeas endophytes in maize plants, and its effect in controlling the fall armyworm,Spodoptera frugiperda(J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae. The commercial strainsB. bassianaBb-18 andM. anisopliaeMa-30 were concentrated at 1 × 108conidia ml−1, and the soil drench method was used to establish them as endophytes in maize plant parts. The biological control assays were conducted under laboratory conditions on second and fourth larval instars ofS. frugiperda.B. bassianacolonized roots, stems, and leaves of maize tissues. However, a high occurrence ofB. bassianawas obtained in roots than leaves and stems with 25, 10, and 5 isolations, respectively, whereasM. anisopliaewas only acquired on roots. Both entomopathogenic fungi caused (100%) mortality on the second instar larvae. In addition,B. bassianaandM. anisopliaekilled (87 and 75%) of the fourth larval instars, respectively. The fungusM. anisopliaecaused the highest sporulation rates during the study. These results suggest that the entomopathogenic fungi might contribute to a sustainableS. frugiperdamanagement in maize production in Cuba.
Synergistic integration of seismic and geologic data for modeling petrophysical properties
Authors: Ma Yuan Zee , Phillips David , Gomez Ernest
Published: March 2020

Reservoir characterization and modeling have become increasingly important for optimizing field development. Optimal valuation and exploitation of a field requires a realistic description of the reservoir, which, in turn, requires integrated reservoir characterization and modeling. An integrated approach for reservoir modeling bridges the traditional disciplinary divides and tears down interdisciplinary barriers, leading to better handling of uncertainties and improvement of the reservoir model for field development. This article presents the integration of seismic data using neural networks and the incorporation of a depositional model and seismic data in constructing reservoir models of petrophysical properties. Some challenging issues, including low correlation due to Simpson's paradox and under- or overfitting of neural networks, are mitigated in geostatistical analysis and modeling of reservoir properties by integrating geologic information. This article emphasizes the integration of well logs, seismic prediction, and geologic data in the 3D reservoir-modeling workflow.
A new approach to improve reservoir modeling via machine learning
Authors: Mohamed Islam A. , Othman Adel , Fathy Mohamed
Published: March 2020

In highly heterogeneous basins with complex subsurface geology, such as the Nile Delta Basin, accurate prediction of reservoir modeling has been a challenge. Reservoir modeling is a continuous process that begins with field discovery and ends with the last phases of production and abandonment. Currently, the stochastic reservoir modeling method is widely used instead of the traditional deterministic modeling method to consider spatial statistics and uncertainties. However, the modeling workflow is demanding and slow, typically requiring months from the initial model concept to flow simulation. In addition, errors from early model stages become cumulative and are difficult to change retroactively. To overcome these limitations, a new workflow is proposed that implements probabilistic neural network inversion to predict reservoir properties. First, well-log data were conditioned properly to match the seismic data scale. Then, the networks were trained and validated, using the conditioned well-log data and seismic internal/external attributes, to predict water saturation and effective porosity 3D volumes. The resulting volumes were sampled in simulation 3D grids and tested using a blind well test. Subsequently, the permeability was calculated from a porosity-permeability relationship inside the reservoir. Finally, a dynamic simulation project of the field was performed in which the historical field production and pressures were compared to the predicted values. One of the Pliocene deepwater turbidite reservoirs in the offshore Nile Delta was used to demonstrate the proposed approach. The results proved the accuracy of the model in predicting the reservoir properties and honoring the heterogeneity of the reservoir. The new approach represents a shortcut for the seismic-to-simulation process, providing a reliable and fast way of constructing a reservoir model and making the seismic-to-simulation process easier.
Seismic integrated study for offshore deep- and thin-stratum characterization: A case study from the Enping sag within the Pearl River Mouth Basin
Authors: Liu Jun , Liang Donghai , Peng Guangrong , Ruan Xiaomin , Li Yingwei , Xu Jianhua , Bai Haijun , Zeng Rui
Published: March 2020

In the Enping 17 sag within the Pearl River Mouth Basin in the South China Sea, one wildcat well has been drilled to the Lower Paleogene Enping Formation (FM EP) and partially into the Wenchang Formation (FM WC) for deep formation hydrocarbon exploration. However, no commercial play was discovered. The reasons for this are clear if the petroleum systems modeling is examined. In FM EP, the main reason for failure is due to poor sealing. In FM WC, the failure is due to the lack of a good reservoir for hydrocarbon accumulation. Encountering a 9 m thick reservoir at a depth of 4650 m indicates that braided fluvial delta and lowstand turbidite sandstone may develop in FM WC. With the objective of establishing cap rock in FM EP and reservoir rock in FM WC, and in the absence of sufficient well data, an integrated framework for 3D seismic reservoir characterization of offshore deep and thin layers was developed. The workflow includes seismic data reprocessing, well-log-based rock-physics analysis, seismic structure interpretation, simultaneous amplitude variation with offset (AVO) inversion, 3D lithology prediction, and geologic integrated analysis. We present four key solutions to address four specific challenges in this case study: (1) the application of adaptive deghosting techniques to remove the source and streamer depth-related ghost notches in the seismic data bandwidth and the relative amplitude-preserved bandwidth extension technique to improve the seismic data resolution; (2) a practical rock-physics modeling approach to consider the formation overpressure for pseudoshear sonic log prediction; (3) interactive and synchronized workflow between prestack 3D AVO inversion and seismic processing to predict a 9 m thick layer in FM WC through more than 60 rounds of cyclic tests; and (4) cross validation between seismic qualitative attributes and quantitative inversion results to verify the lithology prediction result under the condition of insufficient well data.
Machine learning approaches for use in deblending
Authors: Baardman Rolf H. , Hegge Rob F.
Published: March 2020

Machine learning has grown into a topic of much interest in the seismic industry. Recently, machine learning was introduced in the field of seismic processing for applications such as demultiple, regularization, and tomography. Here, two novel machine learning algorithms are introduced that can perform deblending and automated blending noise classification. Conventional deblending algorithms require a priori information and user expertise to properly select and parameterize a specific algorithm. The potential benefits of machine learning methods include their hands-off implementation and their ability to learn an efficient deblending algorithm directly from data. The introduced methods are supervised learning methods. Their specific tasks (deblending/noise classification) are learned from training data consisting of data example pairs of input and labeled output. For instance, training a deblending algorithm requires pairs of blended data with their unblended counterparts. The availability of training data or the possibility of creating training data are key to the success of these supervised methods. Another aspect is how well the algorithms generalize. Can we expect good performance on (unseen) data that vary from the training data? We address these aspects and further illustrate with synthetic and field data examples. The classification and deblending examples show promising results, indicating that these machine learning algorithms can support and/or replace existing deblending approaches.
SaltNet: A production-scale deep learning pipeline for automated salt model building
Authors: Sen Satyakee , Kainkaryam Sribharath , Ong Cen , Sharma Arvind
Published: March 2020

One of the most important steps in velocity model building for seismic imaging in salt basins such as the Gulf of Mexico is the iterative refinement of the salt geometry. Traditionally, this step is difficult to automate, and production workflows require extensive domain expert intervention to accurately interpret the salt bodies on images migrated with an incorrect intermediate velocity model. To alleviate this problem, we propose an end-to-end semisupervised deep learning pipeline, SaltNet, capable of fully automated salt interpretation during initial model building iterations. We show that the method can be used to build the initial salt model (top of salt-1 and base of salt-1 or salt body-1 iterations) without domain expert intervention while achieving accuracy close to that of a human expert. Unlike existing convolutional neural network (CNN)-based salt interpretation applications, this method is designed to work on noisy low-resolution real-data seismic images that are typically encountered during the initial model building stage. It is also generalizable to migrated images from previously unseen surveys. This is achieved by training a suite of deep high-capacity CNN models with a multiview semisupervised learning scheme that leverages data and model distillation concepts to make these models robust to potentially large domain differences that images from a new target survey may exhibit. Consequently, CNN models achieve human-level interpretation accuracy on such new surveys without the need to manually interpret any portion of the target survey. Results from a field test on a Gulf of Mexico survey show excellent agreement between migrated images generated by the conventional interpreter-picked and SaltNet-picked initial salt model.
Geophysics Bright Spots
Authors: Behura Jyoti
Published: March 2020

Welcome to a new collection of Geophysics Bright Spots. I remember reading the first Bright Spots column as a student at Colorado School of Mines. Steve Hill, who conceived the wonderful idea of initiating this column, was my instructor there for a course on seismic data processing. He is a brilliant teacher — always challenging his students to think outside the box and ever open to discussions and debates. Through this column, he exposed readers to cutting-edge research in the field of geophysics while providing a new and important platform for authors to reach industry practitioners. Below is a list of research the editors found interesting in the latest issue of Geophysics. If any of them pique your interest, please read the full Geophysics article. Maybe a light bulb will go off in your head for a new method or algorithm.
Seismic Soundoff
Authors: Geary Andrew
Published: March 2020

The following is an excerpt from SEG's podcast, Seismic Soundoff. In this episode, host Andrew Geary speaks with John Etgen, Virgil Kauffman Gold Medal winner and 2019 SEG Distinguished Lecturer. Etgen and Geary have an engaging and multifaceted conversation on the current capabilities of depth imaging, the limitations of full-waveform inversion, and more. This episode is proudly sponsored by ION Geophysical. Listen to the full episode at https://seg.org/podcast/post/7104 .
Mental disorders and total mortality after 20 years in an adult general population sample
Authors: John Ulrich , Rumpf Hans-Jürgen , Hanke Monika , Meyer Christian
Published: March 2020

Background.

General population data on associations between mental disorders and total mortality are rare. The aim was to analyze whether the number of mental disorders, single substance use, mood, anxiety, somatoform or eating disorders during the lifetime and whether treatment utilization may predict time to death 20 years later in the general adult population.

Methods.

We used data from the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, which includes DSM-IV diagnoses for substance use, mood, anxiety, somatoform, and eating disorders, for a sample of 4,075 residents in Germany who were 18–64 years old in 1996. Twenty years later, mortality was ascertained using the public mortality database for 4,028 study participants. Cox proportional hazards models were applied for disorders that existed at any time in life before the interview.

Results.

The data revealed increased hazard ratios (HRs) for number of mental disorders (three or more; HR 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–1.9) and for single disorders (alcohol dependence, dysthymia, panic disorder with agoraphobia, and hypochondriasis), with the reference group being study participants who had not suffered from any of the mental disorders analyzed and with adjustments made for age, sex, and education. Among individuals with any mental disorder during their lifetimes, having been an inpatient in treatment for a mental disorder was related to a higher HR (2.2; CI 1.6–3.0) than was not having been in any treatment for a mental disorder.

Conclusions.

In this sample of adults in the general population, three or more mental disorders, alcohol dependence, dysthymia, panic disorder with agoraphobia, and hypochondriasis were related to premature death.
Exhaled Propofol Concentrations Correlate With Plasma and Brain Tissue Concentrations in Rats
Authors: Müller-Wirtz Lukas M. , Maurer Felix , Brausch Timo , Kiefer Daniel , Floss Maximilian , Doneit Jonas , Volk Thomas , Sessler Daniel I. , Fink Tobias , Lehr Thorsten , Kreuer Sascha
Published: March 2020

Background:

Propofol can be measured in exhaled gas. Exhaled and plasma propofol concentrations correlate well, but the relationship with tissue concentrations remains unknown. We thus evaluated the relationship between exhaled, plasma, and various tissue propofol concentrations. Because the drug acts in the brain, we focused on the relationship between exhaled and brain tissue propofol concentrations.

METHODS:

Thirty-six male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized with propofol, ketamine, and rocuronium for 6 hours. Animals were randomly assigned to propofol infusions at 20, 40, or 60 mg·kg−1·h−1 (n = 12 per group). Exhaled propofol concentrations were measured at 15-minute intervals by multicapillary column–ion mobility spectrometry. Arterial blood samples, 110 µL each, were collected 15, 30, and 45 minutes, and 1, 2, 4, and 6 hours after the propofol infusion started. Propofol concentrations were measured in brain, lung, liver, kidney, muscle, and fat tissue after 6 hours. The last exhaled and plasma concentrations were used for linear regression analyses with tissue concentrations.

RESULTS:

The correlation of exhaled versus plasma concentrations (R
2 = 0.71) was comparable to the correlation of exhaled versus brain tissue concentrations (R
2 = 0.75) at the end of the study. In contrast, correlations between plasma and lung and between lung and exhaled propofol concentrations were poor. Less than a part-per-thousand of propofol was exhaled over 6 hours.

CONCLUSIONS:

Exhaled propofol concentrations correlate reasonably well with brain tissue and plasma concentrations in rats, and may thus be useful to estimate anesthetic drug effect. The equilibration between plasma propofol and exhaled gas is apparently independent of lung tissue concentration. Only a tiny fraction of administered propofol is eliminated via the lungs, and exhaled quantities thus have negligible influence on plasma concentrations.
Biomarkers for Duchenne muscular dystrophy: myonecrosis, inflammation and oxidative stress
Authors: Grounds Miranda D. , Terrill Jessica R. , Al-Mshhdani Basma A. , Duong Marisa N. , Radley-Crabb Hannah G. , Arthur Peter G.
Published: March 2020

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal, X-linked disease that causes severe loss of muscle mass and function in young children. Promising therapies for DMD are being developed, but the long lead times required when using clinical outcome measures are hindering progress. This progress would be facilitated by robust molecular biomarkers in biofluids, such as blood and urine, which could be used to monitor disease progression and severity, as well as to determine optimal drug dosing before a full clinical trial. Many candidate DMD biomarkers have been identified, but there have been few follow-up studies to validate them. This Review describes the promising biomarkers for dystrophic muscle that have been identified in muscle, mainly using animal models. We strongly focus on myonecrosis and the associated inflammation and oxidative stress in DMD muscle, as the lack of dystrophin causes repeated bouts of myonecrosis, which are the key events that initiate the resultant severe dystropathology. We discuss the early events of intrinsic myonecrosis, along with early regeneration in the context of histological and other measures that are used to quantify its incidence. Molecular biomarkers linked to the closely associated events of inflammation and oxidative damage are discussed, with a focus on research related to protein thiol oxidation and to neutrophils. We summarise data linked to myonecrosis in muscle, blood and urine of dystrophic animal species, and discuss the challenge of translating such biomarkers to the clinic for DMD patients, especially to enhance the success of clinical trials.
The why, when, and how of computing in biology classrooms
Authors: Wright April M. , Schwartz Rachel S. , Oaks Jamie R. , Newman Catherine E. , Flanagan Sarah P.
Published: March 2020

Many biologists are interested in teaching computing skills or using computing in the classroom, despite not being formally trained in these skills themselves. Thus biologists may find themselves researching how to teach these skills, and therefore many individuals are individually attempting to discover resources and methods to do so. Recent years have seen an expansion of new technologies to assist in delivering course content interactively. Educational research provides insights into how learners absorb and process information during interactive learning. In this review, we discuss the value of teaching foundational computing skills to biologists, and strategies and tools to do so. Additionally, we review the literature on teaching practices to support the development of these skills. We pay special attention to meeting the needs of diverse learners, and consider how different ways of delivering course content can be leveraged to provide a more inclusive classroom experience. Our goal is to enable biologists to teach computational skills and use computing in the classroom successfully.
Case Report: Furuncular Myiasis in Malawi
Authors: Musaya Janelisa , Mponda Kelvin
Published: March 2020

Furuncular myiasis results when the larva penetrates healthy skin to cause a furuncle like nodule which may mimic common dermatoses like insect bites and pyoderma leading to misdiagnoses. Tumbu fly (Cordylobia anthropophaga) is the most common cause in Africa and is endemic in Malawi. We describe a case of C. anthropophaga furuncular myiasis from a 6-month-old baby who presented with an acute history of a rash and was initially misdiagnosed on two occasions. Treatment consisted of manual removal of the larva and subsequent local wound care with a good outcome. We believe that much as Malawi is in the endemic region of the Tumbu fly, the disease’s clinical mimicking of common dermatoses and the patients’ preference to treat themselves at home may result in clinicians gaining less experience in managing furuncular myiasis cases in their daily practice leading to misdiagnoses. This report therefore demonstrates the practical challenges which unwary clinicians and patients in Malawi might encounter when faced with this otherwise common condition. It further highlights the importance of dermatologists and other non-dermatologist clinicians to consider furuncular myiasis among differential diagnoses in like lesions which in turn will reduce the unnecessary use of antibiotics and delay correct patient treatment.
Study protocol for a single-centre observational study of household wellbeing and poverty status following a diagnosis of advanced cancer in Blantyre, Malawi - ‘Safeguarding the Family’ study
Authors: Bates Maya Jane , Muula Adamson , Gordon Stephen B. , Henrion Marc Y.R. , Tomeny Ewan , MacPherson Peter , Squire Bertel , Niessen Louis
Published: March 2020

Background: Many households in low-and-middle income countries face the additional burden of crippling out-of-pocket expenditure when faced with a diagnosis of life-limiting illness. Available evidence suggests that receipt of palliative care supports cost-savings for cancer-affected households. This study will explore the relationship between receipt of palliative care, total household out-of-pocket expenditure on health and wellbeing following a first-time diagnosis of advanced cancer at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre, Malawi.

Protocol: Patients and their primary family caregivers will be recruited at the time of cancer diagnosis.  Data on healthcare utilisation, related costs, coping strategies and wellbeing will be gathered using new and existing questionnaires (the Patient-and-Carer Cancer Cost Survey, EQ-5D-3L and the Integrated Palliative Care Outcome Score). Surveys will be repeated at one, three and six months after diagnosis. In the event of the patient’s death, a brief five-item questionnaire on funeral costs will be administered to caregivers not less than two weeks following the date of death. Descriptive and Poisson regression analyses will assess the relationship between exposure to palliative care and total household expenditure from baseline to six months. A sample size of 138 households has been calculated in order to detect a medium effect (as determined by Cohen’s f 2=0.15) of receipt of palliative care in a regression model for change in total household out-of-pocket expenditure as a proportion of annual household income.

Ethics and dissemination: The study has received ethical approval. Results will be reported using STROBE guidelines and disseminated through scientific meetings, open access publications and a national stakeholder meeting. 

Conclusions: This study will provide data on expenditure for healthcare by households affected by advanced cancer in Malawi. We also explore whether receipt of palliative care is associated with a reduction in out-of-pocket expenditure at household level.
The hidden cost of cancer
Authors: Solak-Edwards Michele , Ahmad Mohsan
Published: March 2020

Breast cancer patient Michele Solak-Edwards and dentist Mohsan Ahmad discuss their campaign to petition for free dental care for cancer patients
All the right moves
Authors: Farrell Emma
Published: March 2020

Dental nurse Emma Farrell offers a step-by-step guide for those considering becoming the perfect professional partner on any patient journey
What will schools gain by leading on the new EYFS?
Authors: Cowley Sue
Published: March 2020

Those which are taking the opportunity to embed the revised EYFS learning and development requirements ahead of nurseries and pre-schools may gain some ground, but it will be hard work.
Our ‘non negotiables’
Authors: Chilvers Di
Published: March 2020

Di Chilvers invites practitioners to reflect on what really matters in the Early Years Foundation Stage and emphasises that the essentials of existing best practice must be retained in the face of change.
Reviews
Authors: Faux Karen
Published: March 2020

Each of one these titles provides a veritable treasure trove of practical advice and new ideas for enhancing children's learning. There is plenty of fun to be had as well. Reviews by Karen Faux.
‘The best job ever’
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: March 2020

Based in Worthing, the outstanding Pebbles Childcare is blessed with fantastic opportunities for outdoor learning, which for owner Bridgit Brown (below) can mean a walk in a bluebell wood or a day on the beach. Karen Hart finds out more.
Letting off steam
Authors: Lawson Deborah
Published: March 2020

Report after report has urged the Government to address the professionalism crisis in the early years workforce. So why are we still waiting for a coherent strategy that raises status, pay and career progress?
Well watered
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: March 2020

Now is the perfect time to talk to children about how plants grow from seeds and the conditions they need to flourish. Let them loose outdoors with a watering can to discover the joys of caring for their very own garden.
When I grow up
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: March 2020

Being aware of how girls and boys are accessing your resources and spaces can help to combat any gender bias. Judith Harries suggests ideas to stimulate children's use of all the opportunities that are available in the setting.
Embrace the planet
Authors: White Hilary
Published: March 2020

Activities linked to the natural environment and its wildlife will encourage children to source information from reference books, record facts in writing and use different formats such as captions, labels and speech bubbles.
Outpatient total knee arthroplasty: is it worth considering?
Authors: Carlos Rodríguez-Merchán E.
Published: March 2020

Some authors have reported that outpatient total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a successful, safe and cost-effective treatment in the management of advanced osteoarthritis. The success obtained has been attributed to the coordination of the multidisciplinary team, standardized perioperative protocols, optimal hospital discharge planning and careful selection of patients. One study has demonstrated a higher risk of perioperative surgical and medical outcomes in outpatient TKA than inpatient TKA, including component failure, surgical site infection, knee stiffness and deep vein thrombosis. There remains a lack of universal criteria for patient selection. Outpatient TKA has thus far been performed in relatively young patients with few comorbidities. It is not yet clear whether outpatient TKA is worth considering, except in very exceptional cases (young patients without associated comorbidities). Outpatient TKA should not be generally recommended at the present time.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2020;5:172-179. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.5.180101