bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water Shutoff Using Crosslinked Polymer Gels
Authors: Veliyev Elchin F. , Aliyev Azizagha A. , Guliyev Vugar V. , Naghiyeva Nurana V.
Published: October 2019

The study presents a new crosslinked gels composition for water shutoff operations. The rheological behavior, PSD of kernel solution, propagation capacity and obtained RF/RRF values regarding on bottomhole conditions have been examined. Obtained polymer composition showed high resistance to the 30000 ppm water salinity at 62° C. Three different polymer concentrations used in experiments demonstrates good correlation with obtained RRF values. Therefore, observed deviation in RF values was less than 15%. It’s explained with relatively low viscosities of kernel solution. It was determined critical concentration of crosslinker leading to viscosity reduction. Comparison of different gels in various salinity environments showed particle size dependence on salinity. However it was less than 10% and has no strong impact on RF/RRF values. The propagation experiments were conducted on 1000mD/500 mD sandpack models. Adsorption experiments carried out on ACG core samples.
Korolev Waterflood Pilot Completion Design for Water Supply and Injection Wells
Authors: Guest Roy , Dagistanova Kymbat , Bekishev Assylzhan , Playton Ted , Macias Ray , Fuller Micheal , Villegas Mauricio
Published: October 2019

The Korolev Field is located in western Kazakhstan where a waterflood pilot is planned in a sour naturally fractured carbonate reservoir. The completion design of the water supply and injection wells plays a key role in the economic oil recovery in a waterflood. An improper design can result in high cost, poor sweep efficiency, and low injectivity. This paper provides guidelines and technical studies on the completion designs for the Korolev Waterflood Pilot.

The process for selecting the completion design consists of field data acquisition, analysis, and a completion alternatives assessment. Injection data are acquired from a short-term injection test in the targeted reservoir. Core and fluid samples are acquired from the water source aquifer. The data are analyzed to determine the completion design parameters and objectives for the wells. Finally, the completion alternatives are assessed by a cross functional team through a method which determines an optimum design based on the completion objectives.

A summary of the key conclusions for the Korolev Waterflood Pilot completion designs are:Short-term injection test confirmed viable injection rates, operating pressures and the need for conformance control liner to improve the injection profile.Sand control is required in the lower completion of water supply wells to control solids production. The fines migration study provided key design information which allowed optimization of the water treatment facility design.The water supply wells preferred completion design is an open hole gravel pack with wire wrap screen.The water injection wells preferred completion design is a conformance control liner with swell packers and sliding sleeves.

This assessment is an effective approach for unlocking the hydrocarbon potential in harsh wellbore conditions for a waterflood project. Cost discipline, simplification and cross-functional team work are the key elements which resulted project cost savings and partner alignment on the design and execution plan.
Real-Time Gas Influx Analysis and Control in Managed Pressure Drilling
Authors: Ilin Andrew , Ameen Rostami Sayamik , Deshpande Kedar , Bukashkina Olga
Published: October 2019

Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) usage have shown increasing demand in both offshore and onshore market especially for wells with narrow drilling margins. MPD due to its inherent ability to maintain desired constant bottom-hole pressure (BHP) is a clear choice when mitigating gas influx while drilling thus increasing safety and reducing non-productive time.

MPD removes pore / fracture pressure uncertainties by measuring the drilling window on real time. An enhanced hydraulics modeling that accounts for change in downhole conditions such as temperature, compressibility is key component for successful MPD operations to alter the surface back pressure (SBP) to maintain desired BHP. Aside from enhanced hydraulics model for BHP estimation, an accurate prediction of the gas influx propagation from the bit to the surface is critical for managing BHP dynamically while circulating influx out of annulus.

This work underscores development and usage of advanced multi-phase model to simulate gas influx transport and its effects on BHP during MPD operations. This work elucidates recent advances in the gas influx modeling, specifically single bubble model and kinematic two-phase model formulations are discussed in detail. The results of the single bubble model and two-phase model are compared using industry accepted software during gas influx control and circulation out of the well.
Record-Breaking ERD Intelligent Completion System Installations in the North Caspian Sea: Challenges, Solutions and Multi-Disciplinary Approach
Authors: Novokshenov Stanislav , Kosset Talgat , Goura Nicholas , Niverchuk Andrey , Letchikova Lidia , Nabiullin Renat , Dadashev Afrand , Nabokin Roman
Published: October 2019

In order to maximize oil recovery from shallow and thin reservoirs, Extended Reach (ER) producer and injector wells are becoming common in the Russian Sector of the Caspian Sea. In recent years, Korchagina wells have illustrated the difficulty of achieving effective production along lengthy reservoirs with traditional completion methods. The objective of this paper is to share practical experience gained during deployment of the most advanced Intelligent Completion Systems (ICS) in ER wells. The paper covers detailed analysis, challenges encountered, solutions implemented, and lessons-learned while completing multi-zone wells.

Hydraulically actuated ICS installations on the Korchagina field began in 2014 and continues to date, exceeding expectations for oil recovery. The paper discusses the deployment of recent record-breaking fully-electrically operated ICS in complex 3-D ER wells. Also, the paper covers the multi-disciplinary approach in optimizing drilling practices and techniques, which allowed landing of the longest 10¾" horizontal production casing at 3873m on Well A, as well as the deployment of the longest combined 7" × 5½" liner with wire-wrapped screens and a total length of 3447m, and the longest intelligent completion system with a total length of 3083m, on Well B in the Caspian Sea. The previous world record was comfortably surpassed, with deployment of the ICS inside the 7" liner to a depth of 5187m.

The detailed torque and drag (T&D) modelling of the liner and completion deployment was performed both at the planning and execution stages to ensure that there was sufficient surface weight and torque available. Proprietary Drilling Engineering software was used to derive the expected T&D, extract expected running conditions from previously executed wells, and predict potential challenges. It was also applied during the actual deployment with real-time data being extensively processed and analyzed. The slightly conservative modelling enabled identification of liner and ICS equipment that required modifications and helped to enhance running procedures. Further, the strategic approach to the placement of both swellable open hole packers for the liner, based on caliper and LWD data, and hydraulically-set inner-string isolation packers, is described.

The design and planning of the complete cycle of well construction, including deployment of the intelligent completion system, resulted in flawless completion of the wells with a successful field application and delivered a significant oil recovery increase on the field.
Auto Gas Lift Application in Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli Field, Azerbaijan, Caspian Offshore
Authors: Huseynzade Samir , Hammond Charlie , Pashayev Ahad , Allahverdiyev Ilkin , Mollayev Rovshan
Published: October 2019

The Chirag platform is one of six BP operated platforms to produce from the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli Field in the Azerbaijan sector of Caspian Sea. The Chirag platform was scheduled for early oil delivery but was not developed with any means of artificial lift and as the field became mature, wells experienced water-breakthrough. In the absence of artificial lift, wells can typically flow naturally up to 20-40% watercut at steady-state conditions, however restart of these wells is challenging and at some point, impossible.

Historically high watercut (20-40% and above) Chirag wells were side-tracked to up-dip dry oil leg. However, sidetracking for this reason could be uneconomical and could leave reserves from main production sands unrecovered. Therefore, enabling artificial lift for Chirag wells is vital. Several artificial lift options were evaluated, including ESPs and Jet Pumps. The most attractive method proved to be Gas-lift. In the absence of surface facilities to provide gas lift injection into the wells, using high pressure shallow gas formation as a source for gas lift was identified as suitable both from technical and economical perspective. This project was the first of its kind implementation in BP and offshore Caspian. A number of technical challenges had to be solved to deliver the project: Selection of continuous and permeable gas bearing formationOptimum gas lift valve size selectionSand production from perforated shallow gas formationPlant constraints to start-up and produce the well with AGL

Three formations were selected as a potential energy source for gas-lift supply. It was identified that among all three zones only one is continuous (confirmed by reservoir pressure data in the Chirag area), with a good rock properties and adjacent to a field operated by the National oil company SOCAR with long production history. The gas lift valve size was selected to deliver enough energy to continue producing the well at high WC (>40%), minimize depletion in gas formation and lessen shut-in cross-flow of the lift gas. Perforation and down-hole completion were designed to minimize likelihood of sand production from gas formation, and in the case of sand production limit erosion of downhole equipment. Thorough risk evaluations were carried out to enable start-up of the well with high shut-in tubing head pressure which was due to high reservoir pressure of gas formation and its cross-flow to main production sands.

This paper will focus on describing the technical evaluations carried out to assess and solve the challenges presented above and compare current performance of the wells' vs predicted. As of today, two Chirag wells are operated with AGL and one well has AGL capability for future implementation. The AGL project is confirmed to be a reliable mean of artificial lift method for Chirag wells assuming limited depletion in shallow gas reservoir.
Hybrid Swell Packer - Water Prone Zone Isolation
Authors: Ma Shian Ee , Bt M. Zain Siti Nur , B. Ishak M. Faizatulizuddin , B. Omar M. Afiefe , Chin Pui Ling Jennie
Published: October 2019

Conventionally, for an oil development field with the risk of water breakthrough during its life time of production, a cased hole with perforation method will usually be chosen. This is a proven method of completion strategy that enable an effective way to provide proper water isolation.

Project B is an oil development project in Malaysia with 3 wells in total, which were drilled and completed by early February 2019. During the early stage of the project at Front End Planning, offset well data suggested that there are 2 target zones of hydrocarbon in the field being separated by a thin layer of shale (3meters), dividing them into upper and lower lobe of oil reservoir. It was expected to see a water reservoir below these two reservoirs and hence, the proposed completion strategy was to perform Cased Hole with Perforation and Gravel Pack. Further studies between Production technology and Completion team had raised the concern on the integrity on the water isolation due to the shunt tube system used for the gravel pack job.

To effectively isolate cross flow between the upper and lower lobe of the oil zone and delay the water break through from the lower water reservoir section, project team modified the completion strategy from Cased Hole Gravel Pack to Open Hole with Stand-Alone Screen (OHSAS). Hybrid Swell Packers will be installed at the thin shake layer to provide the zonal isolation.

The completion strategy modification had simplified not only the offshore completion operation, but also the logistic planning and footprint allocation due to lesser equipment required. Total cost saving had been achieved at USD 1.44 Milliom with around 2.4 days reduction on completion operation timing.

This paper will discuss the rational to modify completion strategy, cost comparison and operational sequence between these 2 methods of completion. This paper will also cover the challenges, limitation to deliver the well.
Development and Field Applications of Novel Oil-Based Mud in Western South China Sea
Authors: Guo Yongbin , Liu Zhiqin , Guan Shen
Published: October 2019

The conventional oil-based mud used in the second member of Weizhou formation in Beibu Gulf Oilfield is of character of low oil-water ratio and electric voltage, which makes the water phase activity in mud unable to be adjusted during drilling operation to balance the water activity in collapse-prone formation, and causes the shale to hydrate and disperse. At the same time, the sealing material and mechanism are relatively simple, making it difficult to fill the irregular micro-crack in the collapse-prone formation, and downhole problem for wellbore instability, resulting in poor reservoir protection effect. In order to solve the aforementioned problems, the collapse mechanism of hard brittle gray mudstone in the second member of Weizhou formation was analyzed. The oil-water ratio was improved on the basis of the oil-based mud formula used in the collapse-prone formation of Weizhou formation in the early stage, and the electric voltage of mud was improved by the compoound emulsifier. Also with the optimization of composite particle size plugging materials and with compound plugging mechanism, a novel oil-based mud system was established. The performance evaluation shows that the optimized oil-based mud is of high oil-water ratio (95:5 or higher). The electric voltage is greater than 2000V, and the plastic viscosity is small (PV: 36-50) and less amount of filtration (1mL). The sealing pressure is outstanding (the compressive strength of mud cake is greater than 20MPa), and the water/soil pollution resistance is promising. In the aspect of reservoir protection effect, the reservoir core permeability recovery rate reaches 98.70%. Moreover, in the aspect of inhibition performance evaluation, the shale hot-rolling recovery rate is up to 99.10%. And the cuttings remain intact after a long period of soaking for rock samples. Field application shows that novel oil-based mud system can solve the problem of wellbore instability in the collapse-prone formation of the second member of Weizhou formation. The borehole remained stable, and the casing was run smoothly after drilling. At the same time, the reservoir protection effect is good, with production rate three times higher than estimation. The successful application of this system can effectively solve the problem of drilling and reservoir protection in the collapse-prone Weizhou formation of Beibu Gulf.
Do Poor Patients Suffer from Inaccurate Diagnoses More than Well-to-do Patients? A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Alwan Ibrahim Alwan Al , Magzoub Mohi Eldin Mohammed Ali , Haqwi Ali Al , Badri Motasim , Yousif Sarah Al , Babiker Amir , Mamede Silvia , Schmidt Henk
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Background. Poor patients have greater morbidity and die up to ten years earlier than patients who have higher socio-economic status. These findings are often attributed to differences in life-style between groups. The present study aimed at investigating the extent to which physicians contribute to the effect by providing relative poorer care, perhaps resulting in relative neglect in terms of time spent with a poor patient and more inaccurate diagnoses.
Methods. A randomised experiment with 45 internal medicine residents. Doctors diagnosed twelve written clinical vignettes that were exactly the same except for the description of the patients' socio-economic status. Each participant diagnosed four of the vignettes in a poor-patient version, four in a rich-patient version, and four in a version that did not contain socio-economic markers, in a balanced within-subjects incomplete block design. Main measurements were: diagnostic accuracy scores and time spent on diagnosis.
Results. Mean diagnostic accuracy scores (range 0-1) did not significantly differ among the conditions of the experiment (for poor patients: 0.48; for rich patients: 0.52; for patients without socio-economic markers: 0.54; p > 0.05). While confronted with patients not presenting with socio-economic background information, the participants spent significantly less time-to-diagnosis ((for poor patients: 168 seconds; for rich patients: 176 seconds; for patients without socio-economic markers: 151 seconds; p < 0.01), however due to the fact that the former vignettes were shorter.
Conclusion. There is no reason to believe that physicians are prejudiced against poor patients and therefore treat them differently from rich patients or patients without discernible socio-economic background.
Tomato glycosyltransferase Twi1 plays a role in flavonoid glycosylation and defence against virus
Authors: Campos Laura , López-Gresa María Pilar , Fuertes Diana , Bellés José María , Rodrigo Ismael , LIsón Purificación
Published: October 2019

Background: Secondary metabolites play an important role in the plant defensive response. They are produced as a defence mechanism against biotic stress by providing plants with antimicrobial and antioxidant weapons. In higher plants, the majority of secondary metabolites accumulate as glycoconjugates. Glycosylation is one of the commonest modifications of secondary metabolites, and is carried out by enzymes called glycosyltransferases. Results: Here we provide evidence that the previously described tomato wound and pathogen-induced glycosyltransferase Twi1 displays in vitro activity toward the coumarins scopoletin, umbelliferone and esculetin, and the flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol, by uncovering a new role of this gene in plant glycosylation. To test its activity in vivo, Twi1-silenced transgenic tomato plants were generated and infected with Tomato spotted wilt virus. The Twi1-silenced plants showed a differential accumulation of Twi1 substrates and enhanced susceptibility to the virus. Conclusions: Biochemical in vitro assays and transgenic plants generation proved to be useful strategies to assign a role of tomato Twi1 in the plant defence response. Twi1 glycosyltransferase showed to regulate quercetin and kaempferol levels in tomato plants, affecting plant resistance to viral infection.
Functional Electrical Stimulation‐Assisted Cycle Ergometry in Critically Ill. Protocol of Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Waldauf Petr , Gojda Jan , Urban Tomáš , Hrušková Natália , Blahutová Barbora , Hejnová Marie , Jiroutková Kateřina , Fric Michal , Jánský Pavel , Kukulova Jana , Řasová Kamila , Stephens Francis , Duška František
Published: October 2019

Intensive care unit-acquired weakness is the most important cause of failed functional outcome in survivors of critical care. Most damage occurs during the first week when patients are not cooperative enough with conventional rehabilitation. Functional-electrical stimulation-assisted cycle ergometry (FES-CE) applied within 48 of ICU admission may improve muscle function and long-tem outcome. Methods: Assessor-blinded pragmatic single-centre randomized controlled trial. Adults (n=150) mechanically ventilated for <48 hours from 4 ICUs who are estimated to need >7 days of critical care will be randomized (1:1) to receive either standard of care or FES-CE-based intensified rehabilitation, which will continue until ICU discharge. Primary outcome: Quality of life measured by SF-36 score at 6 months. Secondary outcomes: functional performance at ICU discharge, muscle mass (vastus ultrasound, N-balance) and function (MRC score, insulin sensitivity). In a subgroup (n=30) we will assess insulin sensitivity and perform skeletal muscle biopsies to look at mitochondrial function, fibre typing and regulatory proteins expression.
Awareness of Myopia: A Survey Among Parents Residing in Singapore
Authors: Salim Arief Tjitra , Keel Stuart , Foreman Joshua , Dirani Mohamed
Published: October 2019

Background: Given the rising public health burden of myopia, population-based data on the level of awareness about myopia amongst parents in Singapore are required for planning future awareness campaigns and public health interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the level of awareness of myopia amongst a group of parents residing in Singapore.
Methods: This study was a cross-sectional survey. A sample of 326 participants aged 19 to 69 years with at least 1 child were recruited at The Kidz Academy (TKA) 2018 exhibition in Singapore. Socio-demographic characteristics, smart device use and awareness of myopia (prevalence and mitigation strategies) were collected via an interviewer-administered online questionnaire.
Results: 56.7% (185/326) of survey respondents were aware of the high prevalence of myopia amongst secondary school-going Singaporean children. 18.1% (59/326) of the respondents reported that an eye-to-screen distance of less than 30 cm was acceptable and 27.0% (88/326) were unaware of the importance of regular eye examinations among children. Less than half of the respondents [46.6% (152/326)] correctly identified that Singaporean children spend at least 6.5 hours a day on digital screens. 87.7% (286/326) were aware of the importance of outdoor activity as an intervention to slow the progression of myopia, with female respondents significantly more likely to be aware of its importance [odds ratio (OR) = 2.12, 95% confidence interval = 1.09 – 4.13, χ2 = 4.86, P = .03].
Conclusion: Survey respondents demonstrated a good level of awareness of the high prevalence of myopia in Singapore and the protective role of outdoor activity in its development and progression. Awareness campaigns may be beneficial for promoting regular eye examinations amongst children and educating the public on the risk of excessive time spent on smart devices.
Quantitative CT parameters correlate with lung function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yan , Lin Shan , Li Jian-Ting , Wu Jing , Han Dong , Guan Wei
Published: October 2019

Abstract

purpose : The aim of the study was to analyze the correlation between quantitative
computed tomography (CT) parameters and airflow obstruction in patients with chronic obstruction pulmonary disease (COPD).
Methods: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and Web of Knowledge were searched by two investigators from inception to 2018, using a combination of pertinent items to discover articles that investigated the relationship between CT measurements and lung function parameters in patients with COPD. Five reviewers independently evaluated the quality, extracted data and evaluated bias. The correlation coefficient was calculated and heterogeneity was explored. The following CT measurements were extracted: percentage of lung attenuation area < -950 Hounsfield Units (HU), mean lung density, percentage of airway wall area, air trapping index, airway wall thickness. Two airflow obstruction parameters were extracted: forced expiratory volume in the first second as a percentage of prediction (FEV 1 % pred) and FEV 1 divided by forced expiratory volume lung capacity.
Results: A total of 117 studies (19,942 participants) were identified, 36 of which (4,762 participants) were suitable for meta-analysis. Results from our analysis demonstrated that there was a significant correlation between quantitative CT parameters and lung function. The absolute pooled correlation coefficients ranged from 0.44 (95% CI, 0.36 to 0.53) to 0.71(95% CI,0.65 to 0.77) for inspiratory CT and 0.59 (95% CI, 0.53 to 0.65) to 0.66 (95% CI,0.61 to 0.72) for expiratory CT.
Conclusions: Results from this analysis demonstrated that quantitative CT parameters
are significantly correlated with lung function in patients with COPD. With recent
advances in chest CT, we can evaluate morphological features in the lungs that cannot be obtained by other clinical indices, such as pulmonary function tests. Therefore, CT can provide a quantitative method to advance the development and testing of new
interventions and therapies for patients with COPD.
Keywords: Airway obstruction, Systematic review, Meta-analysis.
Incidence of seriously injured road users in a Swedish region, 2003–2014, from the perspective of a national road safety policy
Authors: Värnild Astrid , Belin Matts-Åke , Larm Peter , Tillgren Per
Published: October 2019

Background Since 1997 Sweden has a policy for road safety called Vision Zero. Given that Vision Zero is mainly used to reduce fatalities among car occupants, the question has been raised by the research community whether a Vision Zero approach promotes health for all road traffic users. The objective is to measure target fulfilment of the national road safety policy for a Swedish region by examining incidence of serious injury during 2003–2014 in rural and urban road spaces with or without implemented measures. Methods Data on seriously injured road users, defined as ISS>8 (Injury Severity Scale), were retrieved from STRADA (Swedish Traffic Accident Data Acquisition) together with data from NVDB (National Road Database). These data are used to describe where road users are seriously injured in relation to implemented national policy and using a conceptual model of a road space comprising roads, pavements and tracks for walking and cycling. Seriously injured road users in single and multiple crashes with and without vehicles are included. The development of the incidence is analysed for different road users and places in the road space. Results Seriously injured road users increased in rural areas from 7.8 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2003 to 9.3 in 2014, and in urban areas from 8.0 to 16.3 respectively. In areas not transformed by Vision Zero, only 36% were injured in rural areas while 64% were injured in urban areas. In contrast, in transformed areas 61% of injuries occurred in rural areas, whereas 39% occurred in urban areas. Conclusion Despite implemented road safety measures in the region, the incidence of seriously injured road users doubled in urban areas during 2003–2014, while the incidence decreased for car occupants on transformed national roads in rural areas. In urban areas, more people were seriously injured on pavements and tracks for cycling and walking than on the roads where Vision Zero had been implemented. The reduction in the incidence in the region may not be adequate to contribute to fulfilling the national target. More needs to be done, especially in the urban areas, where more active mobility is desired.
Efficacy and Safety of Immunotherapy and Standard of Care in High-Grade Gliomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Author) Shengnan Zhang(Former Corresponding , Xu Libo , Chen Guanyu , Liu Jiangmin , Wang Qian , Hu Xindan , Wen Naiyan , Liu Xiaomin , Peng Xinyu , Fan Lei , Guo Baofeng , Author) Ling Zhang(New Corresponding
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND: Immunotherapy combined with standard of care (SOC) is often used for high-grade glioma (HGG). There are few comparisons about immunotherapy with or without SOC treatment (IMT) versus SOC. It is important to understand what interventions exist and their relative effectiveness.
METHODS: The Cochrane Library, Embase, Medline, and the Web of Science Core Collection were systematically searched by two librarians. Retrieved hits were screened for inclusion. Subgroup analysis was used to examine main factors associated with overall survival (OS). Progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and occurrence rate of adverse events (AE) as primary endpoints were used to assess the efficacy and safety of IMT . This study was registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42019112356.
RESULTS: The search yielded 2315 results of which 11 met eligibility criteria. We identified 11 publications. Compared to SOC alone, IMT improved OS (HR = 0.62, 95% CI 0.48-0.81; p = 0.0003), PFS (HR = 0.59, 95% CI 0.39-0.89; p = 0.0117), ORR (RR = 3.12, 95% CI 1.09-8.95; p = 0.034). But it increased the occurrence rate of AE (RR = 1.56; p < 0.0001).
CONCLUSIONS: It suggests that IMT compared to SOC has a certain effectiveness. Our findings support the use of immunotherapy in brain tumor to improve HGG outcomes.
Genome-wide characterization and evolutionary analysis of heat stress transcription factors (HSFs) to reveal their potential role under abiotic stresses in radish (Raphanus sativus L.)
Authors: Tang Mingjia , Xu Liang , Wang Yan , Cheng Wanwan , Luo Xiaobo , Xie Yang , Fan Lianxue , Liu Liwang
Published: October 2019

Background Abiotic stresses due to climate change pose a great threat to crop production. Heat shock transcription factors (HSFs) are vital regulators that play key roles in protecting plants against various abiotic stresses. Therefore, the identification and characterization of HSFs is imperative to dissect the mechanism responsible for plant stress responses. Although the HSF gene family has been extensively studied in several plant species, its characterization, evolutionary history and expression patterns in the radish (Raphanus sativus L.) remain limited. Results In this study, 33 RsHSF genes were obtained from the radish genome, which were classified into three main groups and 12 subgroups based on HSF protein domain structure. Chromosomal localization analysis revealed that 28 of 33 RsHSF genes were located on nine chromosomes, and 10 duplicated RsHSF genes were grouped into eight gene pairs by whole genome duplication (WGD). Moreover, there were 23 or 9 pairs of orthologous HSFs were identified between radish and Arabidopsis or rice, respectively. Comparative analysis revealed a close relationship among radish, Chinese cabbage and Arabidopsis. RNA-seq data showed that eight RsHSF genes, including RsHSF-03, were highly expressed in the leaf, root, cortex, cambium and xylem, results that these genes might be involved in plant growth and development. Further, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) indicated that the expression patterns of 12 RsHSF genes varied upon exposure to different abiotic stresses, including heat, salt, and heavy metals. This data indicated that the RsHSFs may be involved in abiotic stress response. Conclusions These results could provide fundamental insights into the characteristics and evolution of the HSF family and facilitate further dissection of the molecular mechanism responsible for radish abiotic stress responses.
Retroclavicular vs Infraclavicular block For Brachial Plexus Anesthesia: A Multi-Centric Randomized Trial
Authors: Blanco Andres Felipe Gil , Laferriere-Langlois Pascal , Jessop David , D’Aragon Frederick , Sansoucy Yanick , Albert Natalie , Tétreault Pascal , Echave Pablo
Published: October 2019

Background: The coracoid approach is a simple method to perform ultrasound-guided brachial plexus regional anesthesia (RA) but its simplicity is counterbalanced by a difficult needle visualization. We hypothesized that the retroclavicular (RCB) approach is not longer to perform when compared to the coracoid (ICB) approach, and improves needle visualization.
Methods: This randomized, controlled, non-inferiority trial conducted in two hospitals, included patients undergoing distal upper limb surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to a brachial plexus block (ICB or RCB). The primary outcome was performance time (sum of visualization and needling time), and was analyzed with a non-inferiority test of averages. Depth of sensory and motor blockade, surgical success, total anesthesia time, needle visualization, number of needle passes and complications were also evaluated. Subgroup analysis restricted to patients with higher body mass index was completed.
Results: We included 109 patients between September 2016 and May 2017. Mean RCB performance time was 4.8 ± 2.0 min while ICB was 5.2 ± 2.3 min (p=0.06) with a 95% CI reaching up to 5.8% longer. RCB conferred an ultrasound-needle angle closer to 0° and significantly improved needle visibility after the clavicle was cleared and before local anesthetic administration. No differences were found in the secondary outcomes. Similar results were found in the subgroup analysis.
Conclusion: RCB approach for brachial plexus anesthesia was similar to ICB approach in terms of time performance. Needle visibility, which represent an important clinical variable, was superior and angle between needle and ultrasound probe was close to 0° in the RCB group.
Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02913625), registered 26 September 2016.
Completion rate of Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment for patients with metastatic or recurrent cancer: A preliminary, cross-sectional study
Authors: Kim Ju Won , Choi Jung Yoon , Jang Won Jin , Choi Yoon Ji , Choi Youn Seon , Shin Sang Won , Kim Yeul Hong , Park Kyong Hwa
Published: October 2019

Background: “End of life” is a difficult topic of conversation in East Asian cultures, even among patients and doctors who share a good rapport. In 2016, the Hospice, Palliative Care, and Life-Sustaining Treatment Decision-Making Act, which took the form of “Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment,” was introduced in South Korea. This study was conducted to investigate the completion rate of Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment in patients with advanced cancer on the active recommendation of physicians, as well as patients’ general attitudes toward end-of-life care.
Methods: We conducted a preliminary, cross-sectional descriptive survey on patients with advanced cancer. A total of 101 patients with advanced solid cancer agreed to participate in the study. The primary endpoint was the rate of completion of Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment based on a doctor’s suggestion. Written interviews were conducted to understand the perceptions and factors influencing patients’ decisions.
Results: Of the 101 patients, 72 (71.3%) agreed to prepare Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment. Patients who had an educational level of high school or higher were more likely to agree to complete Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment documentation as compared to the lower educational status group. More than half of the respondents who completed Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment documentation reported that they had more than a fair understanding of “life-sustaining care” or “Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment.” Participants’ reasons for Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment completion were diverse.
Conclusions: We found that highly educated patients, who understood the concept behind the policy well, tended to accept Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment without hesitation. Better education, information shared through the media, and conversations with health care providers might improve understanding of Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment in patients with cancer.
Validation of the Atopic Dermatitis Control Tool (ADCT©) using a longitudinal survey of biologic-treated patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Simpson Eric , Eckert Laurent , Gadkari Abhijit , Mallya Usha G. , Yang Min , Nelson Lauren , Brown Michelle , Reaney Matt , Mahajan Puneet , Guillemin Isabelle , Boguniewicz Mark , Pariser David
Published: October 2019

Background: The Atopic Dermatitis Control Tool (ADCT©) is a brief patient self-administered instrument designed and validated to assess atopic dermatitis (AD) control; six AD symptoms and impacts are evaluated over the past week, including overall severity of symptoms, days with intense episodes of itching, intensity of bother, problem with sleep, impact on daily activities, and impact on mood or emotions. This study assessed the reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the ADCT in a longitudinal context, and provided thresholds to identify meaningful within-person change.
Methods: Data were from a prospective, longitudinal patient survey study of real-world effectiveness of dupilumab in patients with AD. Eligible patients completed a baseline survey before starting dupilumab and were followed at Months 1, 2, 3, and 6 post-initiation as they became eligible.
Results: Psychometric analyses confirmed internal consistency; Cronbach’s α coefficients were consistently above the threshold of 0.70 across each follow-up, while item-to-total correlations were above the threshold of r ≥ 0.50. High correlations between the ADCT and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and skin pain supported construct validity, while known-group validity was shown on Patient Global Assessment of Disease (PGAD) overall well-being subgroups with worse AD-related overall well-being having higher mean ADCT total scores at all time points. The ability of the ADCT to detect change was confirmed; the threshold for meaningful within-person change was estimated to be 5 points. Finally, test–retest reliability was confirmed in subgroups of patients with stable PGAD responses.
Conclusions: Our findings confirm that the ADCT is a valid and reliable tool for assessing AD control.
Chondroitinase ABC reduces dopaminergic nigral cell death and striatal terminal loss in a 6-hydroxydopamine partial lesion mouse model of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Fletc Edward JR , Moon Lawrence DF , Duty Susan
Published: October 2019

Background Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterised by dopaminergic cell loss within the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) that leads to reduced striatal dopamine content and resulting motor deficits. Identifying new strategies to protect these cells from degeneration and retain striatal dopaminergic innervation is therefore of great importance. Chondroitin sulphate proteoglycans (CSPGs) are recognised contributors to the inhibitory extracellular milieu known to hinder tissue recovery following CNS damage. Digestion of these molecules by the bacterial lyase chondroitinase ABC (ChABC) has been shown to promote functional recovery in animal models of neurological injury. Although ChABC has been shown to promote sprouting of dopaminergic axons following transection of the nigrostriatal pathway, its ability to protect against nigrostriatal degeneration in a more clinically-relevant toxin model of PD has yet to be explored. Here we examined the neuroprotective efficacy of ChABC treatment in the full and partial 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesion mouse models of PD. Results In mice bearing a full 6-OHDA lesion, ChABC treatment failed to protect against the loss of either nigral cells or striatal terminals. In contrast, in mice bearing a partial 6-OHDA lesion, ChABC treatment significantly protected cells of the rostral SNc, which remained at more than double the numbers seen in vehicle-treated animals. In the partial lesion model, ChABC treatment also significantly preserved dopaminergic fibres of the rostral dorsal striatum which increased from 15.3 ± 3.5% of the intact hemisphere in saline-treated animals to 36.3 ± 6.5% in the ChABC-treated group. These protective effects of ChABC treatment were not accompanied by improvements in either the cylinder or amphetamine-induced rotations tests of motor function. Conclusions ChABC treatment provided significant protection against a partial 6-OHDA lesion of the nigrostriatal tract although the degree of protection was not sufficient to improve motor outcomes. These results support further investigations into the benefits of ChABC treatment for providing neuroprotection in PD.
MEG3 inhibits proliferation and promote apoptosis in osteoarthritis chondrocytes by miR-361-5p/wnt/β-catenin axis
Authors: Wang Anying , Hu Naixia , Zhang Yefeng , Chen Yuanzhen , Su Changhui , Lv Yao , Shen Yong
Published: October 2019

Background: This study aimed to investigate the role of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) maternally expressed 3 (MEG3) and related molecular mechanisms in osteoarthritis (OA).
Methods: Patients with OA and patients undergoing thigh amputation were involved in OA group and control group, respectively. Cartilage tissues of all patients were isolated and cultured. Based on different transfection, MEG3 cells were grouped into Blank, pcDNA3.1-NC, pcDNA3.1-MEG3, si-NC, si-MEG3, pcDNA3.1-NC + mimics NC, pcDNA3.1-MEG3 + mimics NC, pcDNA3.1-NC + miR-361-5p mimics and pcDNA3.1-MEG3 + miR-361-5p mimics group. The cells transfected with pcDNA3.1-NC and pcDNA3.1-MEG3, and then cultured with XAV939 was named as pcDNA3.1-NC +XAV939 group and pcDNA3.1-MEG3 + XAV939 group respectively. The RT-qPCR was used to detect the expression of MEG3 and miR-361-5p . Moreover, Western blot, luciferase reporter assay, RIP, CCK-8 and flow cytometry analysis were performed to reveal the morphology, proliferation and apoptosis in cartilage cells. Finally, the histological analysis and immunostaining were performed on OA rat model.
Results: The expression of lncRNA MEG3 and miR-361-5p in OA was significantly decreased and increased respectively than that in normal. Meanwhile, MEG3 was competitive binding with miR-361-5p in OA chondrocytes. Moreover, the Western blot and CCK-8 assay showed that MEG3 might inhibit cell proliferation and promote cell apoptosis via Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Finally, rat model analysis showed that MEG3 contributed to the cartilage matrix degradation.
Conclusion: MEG3 and miR-361-5p might down-regulated and up-regulated respectively in the chondrocytes of OA patients. Furthermore, MEG3 might inhibit cell proliferation and promote cell apoptosis via miR-361-5p/Wnt/β-catenin axis in OA chondrocytes.
Infective patterns of cryptococcosis in patients with connective tissue disease: a retrospective study
Authors: Lao Minxi , Gong Yingying , Shen Chuyu , Wang Cuicui , Liang Liuqin , Zhan Zhongping , Chen Dongying
Published: October 2019

Background: Cryptococcal infection is a life-threatening complication in patients with connective tissue disease (CTD). This retrospective study was performed to explore the clinical features and associated factors of cryptococcosis in patients with CTD from southern China.
Methods: Demographic and clinical data were collected between 2007 and 2018. Associated factors were analyzed by logistic regression analysis.
Results: A total of 6809 inpatients with CTD were included. Cryptococcosis was diagnosed in 30 patients (prevalence, 0.4%). Cryptococcosis was predominant in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) (prevalence, 6/530, 1.1%). Lung was commonly involved (18/30, 60.0%), followed by meninges (6/30, 20.0%), blood stream (5/30, 16.7%) and disseminated cryptococcosis (1/30, 3.3%). Infiltrates (10/18, 55.6%) and small nodules (8/18, 44.4%) were the main radiographic manifestation of pulmonary cryptococcosis (PC). The positive rate of serum cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) in patients with PC was 88.2%. Cryptococcus spp. were found in 75% (3/4) patients who underwent lung biopsy. Most of the patients with cryptococcal meninges (CM) had elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) opening pressure (6/7, 85.7%) and decreased CSF glucose level (5/7, 71.4%). Positive blood culture confirmed the diagnosis of cryptococcal sepsis (CS). Three patients died (10.0%), including one with CM and two with PC. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that accumulated dose of glucocorticoid (GC) [odds ratio (OR) = 1.42, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08-1.87, P = 0.01] was associated with cryptococcosis in patients with CTD.
Conclusions: Cryptococcosis developed in various organs. Typical radiological manifestation accompanied with positive serum CrAg were helpful clues for diagnosis. Lumbar puncture was a critical diagnostic method to distinguish CM. The accumulated dose of GC was associated with cryptococcosis in patients with CTD.
Effectiveness of Music Therapy for Alleviating Pain During Haemodialysis Access Cannulation for Patients Undergoing Haemodialysis: A Multi-facility, Single-blind, Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Kishida Masatsugu , Yamada Yosuke , Inayama Emi , Kitamura Mineaki , Nishino Tomoya , Ota Keiko , Shintani Ayumi , Ikenoue Tatsuyoshi
Published: October 2019

Background
Repeated pain during haemodialysis access cannulations is a serious problem for haemodialysis patients, even when prescribed oral or topical analgesics. While some studies have observed the efficacy of music therapy for improving pain and anxiety, its effectiveness during haemodialysis access cannulations during dialysis is uncertain. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of music therapy for pain when cannulating haemodialysis access for haemodialysis patients.
Methods
A prospective, multi-facility, single-blind, crossover, randomised controlled trial will be implemented. The intervention includes listening to Mozart, along with a white noise control condition. One hundred twenty haemodialysis patients will be enrolled across five facilities. Patients will be randomly allocated to either an Early-sequence group or a Later-sequence group. The Early-sequence group will receive cannulation while listening to Mozart’s Sonata for 2 pianos in D major (K.448) during the second week (Music period) and white noise during the fourth week (White noise period). The Later-sequence group will receive cannulation along with white noise first, followed by Mozart. All patients will also undergo cannulation during a ‘no-sound period (only wearing headphones) during the first and third week (No-sound period). The music or no-music protocol will begin 8 minutes prior to the cannulating procedure, and participants will finish listening after starting haemodialysis during each period. The primary outcomes that will be assessed include the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score for pain during cannulation, and secondary outcomes such as blood pressure, heart rate, VAS anxiety score, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory score, and salivary amylase activity. The operators who are in charge of haemodialysis access cannulation will be blind to the listening condition and VAS report.
Discussion
The proposed study has several methodological benefits. First, using white noise is a suitable control condition for addressing the role of sound on pain management. Additionally, using a crossover design with repeated measurements can help control individual differences between participants, which should better distinguish between- and within-participant variability. Overall, music therapy is a safe and inexpensive intervention that does not have the problematic side effects typically associated with pharmacological treatment. If effective, music therapy can be easily implemented for reducing pain and anxiety during cannulation.