bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From office to digital primary care services: analysing income-related inequalities in utilization
Authors: Wilkens Jens , Thulesius Hans , Ekman Björn
Published: May 2024

The use of digital technologies to deliver primary health care has increased over the past decade. While some technologies have been shown to be medically effective and efficient, the effects of digital primary care on the policy goal of equality in the use of such types of care have not been studied using large register data. The aim of this study was to analyse how digital contacts differ from officebased visits by income as an indicator of socioeconomic status. Specifically, we estimated differences in primary care utilization across income, factors of contribution to these inequalities, and applied a needs-based standardisation of utilization to estimate differences in equity.

We used a purposively built consultation level dataset with 726 000 Swedish adult patients diagnosed with an infection, including clinical and sociodemographic variables. Applying concentration indexes (CI) and graphical illustrations we measured how the two types of services are distributed relative to income. We estimated how much of the inequalities were attributed to different sociodemographic factors by decomposing the concentration indexes. Standardised utilization for sex, age and comorbidity allowed for the estimation of horizontal inequity indexes for both types of services.

Utilization by the two types of care showed large income inequalities. Office-based visits were propoor (CI -0.116), meaning lowincome patients utilized relatively more of these services, while digital contacts were prorich (CI 0.205). However, within the patient group who had at least one digital contact, the utilization was also propoor (CI -0,101), although these patients had higher incomes on average. The standardised utilization showed a smaller prorich digital utilization (CI 0.143), although large differences remained. Decomposing the concentration indexes showed that education level and being born in Sweden were strong attributes of prorich digital service utilization.

The prorich utilization effects of digital primary care may risk undermining the policy goals of access and utilization to services regardless of socioeconomic status. As digital health technologies continue to expand, policy makers need to be aware of the risk.
Advances in the application of extracellular vesicles derived from three-dimensional culture of stem cells
Authors: Chen Wenya , Wu Peipei , Jin Can , Chen Yinjie , Li Chong , Qian Hui
Published: May 2024

Stem cells (SCs) have been used therapeutically for decades, yet their applications are limited by factors such as the risk of immune rejection and potential tumorigenicity. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), a key paracrine component of stem cell potency, overcome the drawbacks of stem cell applications as a cell-free therapeutic agent and play an important role in treating various diseases. However, EVs derived from two-dimensional (2D) planar culture of SCs have low yield and face challenges in large-scale production, which hinders the clinical translation of EVs. Three-dimensional (3D) culture, given its ability to more realistically simulate the in vivo environment, can not only expand SCs in large quantities, but also improve the yield and activity of EVs, changing the content of EVs and improving their therapeutic effects. In this review, we briefly describe the advantages of EVs and EV-related clinical applications, provide an overview of 3D cell culture, and finally focus on specific applications and future perspectives of EVs derived from 3D culture of different SCs.

Graphical Abstract
Genomic landscape and distinct molecular subtypes of primary testicular lymphoma
Authors: Zhang Weilong , Yang Ping , Yang Yaru , Liu Shuozi , Xu Yongdeng , Wu Chaoling , Wang Jing , Liu Cuiling , Liu Hui , Li Shuangshuang , Huang Wei , Jing Hongmei
Published: May 2024

Primary testicular lymphoma (PTL) is a rare lymphoma predominantly occurring in the elderly male population. It is characterized by a limited response to treatment and a heightened tendency towards relapse. Histologically, approximately 90% of PTL cases are classified as diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCL). Genetic features of PTL were delineated in a limited scope within several independent studies. Some of the articles which analyzed the genetic characterization of DLBCL have incorporated PTL samples, but these have been constrained by small sample sizes. In addition, there have been an absence of independent molecular typing studies of PTL. This report summarizes the common mutational features, copy number variations (CNVs) and molecular typing of PTL patients, based on whole-exome sequencing (WES) conducted on a cohort of 25 PTL patients. Among them, HLA, CDKN2A and MYD88 had a high mutation frequency. In addition, we found two core mutational characteristics in PTL including mutation in genes linked to genomic instability (TP53 and CDKN2A) and mutation in immune-related genes (HLA, MYD88, CD79B). We performed molecular typing of 25 PTL patients into C1 subtype with predominantly TP53 mutations and C2 subtype with predominantly HLA mutations. Notably, mutations in the TP53 gene predicted a poor outcome in most types of lymphomas. However, the C1 subtype, dominated by TP53 mutations, had a better prognosis compared to the C2 subtype in PTL. C2 subtype exhibited a worse prognosis, aligning with our finding that the mechanism of immune escape in PTL was primarily the deletions of HLA rather than PD-L1/PD-L2 alterations, a contrast to other DLBCLs. Moreover, we calculated the tumor mutation burden (TMB) and identified that TMB can predict prognosis and recurrence rate in PTL. Our study underscores the significance of molecular typing in PTL based on mutational characteristics, which plays a crucial role in prognostication and guiding therapeutic strategies for patients.
The potential and promise for clinical application of adoptive T cell therapy in cancer
Authors: Li Yinqi , Zheng Yeteng , Liu Taiqing , Liao Chuanyun , Shen Guobo , He Zhiyao
Published: May 2024

Adoptive cell therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, especially for hematologic malignancies. T cells are the most extensively utilized cells in adoptive cell therapy. Currently, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, T cell receptor-transgenic T cells and chimeric antigen receptor T cells are the three main adoptive T cell therapies. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes kill tumors by reinfusing enlarged lymphocytes that naturally target tumor-specific antigens into the patient. T cell receptor-transgenic T cells have the ability to specifically destroy tumor cells via the precise recognition of exogenous T cell receptors with major histocompatibility complex. Chimeric antigen receptor T cells transfer genes with specific antigen recognition structural domains and T cell activation signals into T cells, allowing T cells to attack tumors without the assistance of major histocompatibility complex. Many barriers have been demonstrated to affect the clinical efficacy of adoptive T cell therapy, such as tumor heterogeneity and antigen loss, hard trafficking and infiltration, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and T cell exhaustion. Several strategies to improve the efficacy of adoptive T cell therapy have been explored, including multispecific chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy, combination with immune checkpoint blockade, targeting the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, etc. In this review, we will summarize the current status and clinical application, followed by major bottlenecks in adoptive T cell therapy. In addition, we will discuss the promising strategies to improve adoptive T cell therapy. Adoptive T cell therapy will result in even more incredible advancements in solid tumors if the aforementioned problems can be handled.

Graphical abstract
Understanding the meaning of the lived experience “maternal role” in women with multiple sclerosis and planning a supportive program: a combined exploratory study protocol
Authors: Ghezelhesari Elaheh Mansouri , Nahayati Mohamad Ali , Heydari Abbas , Ebrahimipour Hosein , Khadivzadeh Talat
Published: May 2024

Background

The maternal role is one of the most challenging yet rewarding roles that women experience in their lives. It begins when a woman becomes pregnant, and as the pregnancy progresses, she prepares to fulfill her role as a mother. A woman's health plays a crucial role in her ability to fulfill the maternal role. Multiple sclerosis (MS), as an autoimmune disease, presents unique challenges in achieving this role. Failing to fulfill the maternal role can have lasting consequences for both the mother and the baby. Given the increasing number of women with MS of reproductive age in Iran and the absence of specific programs for this group during pregnancy and postpartum, researchers have decided to develop a supportive program by exploring the meaning of the maternal role and identifying the needs of these women during this period.

Methods/materials

This study will be conducted in 3 stages. The first stage involves a qualitative study to explore the meaning of the "maternal role" in women with MS through a descriptive and interpretive phenomenological approach based on Van Manen's method. Data will be collected through semi-structured interviews with pregnant women with MS and mothers with MS who have children under one-year-old, recruited from the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Mashhad, Iran. The second stage will involve designing a support program based on the findings of the phenomenological study, literature review, and exploratory interviews. A logical model will guide the development of the program, and validation will be conducted using the nominal group technique.

Discussion

This study is the first of its kind in Iran to explore the meaning of the maternal role and develop a support program for women with MS. It is hoped that the results of this study will help address the challenges of motherhood faced by these women.
The regulation of cGAS-STING signaling by RNA virus-derived components
Authors: Xie Feiting , Zhu Qiugang
Published: May 2024

The Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) serves as a key innate immune signaling axis involved in the regulation of various human diseases. It has been found that cGAS-STING pathway can recognize a variety of cytosolic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), contributing to cause a robust type I interferon response thereby affecting the occurrence and progression of viral infection. Accumulating evidence indicates RNA virus-derived components play an important role in regulating cGAS-STING signaling, either as protective or pathogenic factors in the pathogenesis of diseases. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the function of RNA virus-derived components in regulating cGAS-STING signaling will provide insights into developing novel therapies. Here, we review the existing literature on cGAS-STING pathway regulated by RNA virus-derived components to propose insights into pharmacologic strategies targeting the cGAS-STING pathway.
Effects of extracorporeal CO2 removal on gas exchange and ventilator settings: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Stommel Alexandra-Maria , Herkner Harald , Kienbacher Calvin Lukas , Wildner Brigitte , Hermann Alexander , Staudinger Thomas
Published: May 2024

Purpose

A systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal (ECCO2R) on gas exchange and respiratory settings in critically ill adults with respiratory failure.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive database search, including observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from January 2000 to March 2022, targeting adult ICU patients undergoing ECCO2R. Primary outcomes were changes in gas exchange and ventilator settings 24 h after ECCO2R initiation, estimated as mean of differences, or proportions for adverse events (AEs); with subgroup analyses for disease indication and technology. Across RCTs, we assessed mortality, length of stay, ventilation days, and AEs as mean differences or odds ratios.

Results

A total of 49 studies encompassing 1672 patients were included. ECCO2R was associated with a significant decrease in PaCO2, plateau pressure, and tidal volume and an increase in pH across all patient groups, at an overall 19% adverse event rate. In ARDS and lung transplant patients, the PaO2/FiO2 ratio increased significantly while ventilator settings were variable. “Higher extraction” systems reduced PaCO2 and respiratory rate more efficiently. The three available RCTs did not demonstrate an effect on mortality, but a significantly longer ICU and hospital stay associated with ECCO2R.

Conclusions

ECCO2R effectively reduces PaCO2 and acidosis allowing for less invasive ventilation. “Higher extraction” systems may be more efficient to achieve this goal. However, as RCTs have not shown a mortality benefit but increase AEs, ECCO2R’s effects on clinical outcome remain unclear. Future studies should target patient groups that may benefit from ECCO2R.

PROSPERO Registration No: CRD 42020154110 (on January 24, 2021).

Graphical abstract
Canine leishmaniasis in the Americas: etiology, distribution, and clinical and zoonotic importance
Authors: Dantas-Torres Filipe
Published: May 2024

Canine leishmaniasis is a widespread disease on the American continent, with cases reported from Uruguay to the USA and Canada. While numerous Leishmania spp. have been reported in dogs in this region, Leishmania infantum and Leishmania braziliensis are the most common etiological agents of canine leishmaniasis from a continental perspective. Nonetheless, other species may predominate locally in some countries. The participation of dogs in the transmission cycle of various Leishmania spp. has long been speculated, but evidence indicates that their role as reservoirs of species other than L. infantum is negligible. Various native wildlife (e.g., small rodents, marsupials, sloths, and monkeys) are, in fact, the primary hosts of Leishmania spp. in the Americas. In this review, an updated list of Leishmania spp. infecting dogs in the Americas is presented, along with their distribution and clinical and zoonotic importance

Graphical Abstract
Proprioceptive training methods (PTM) in female soccer players – a systematic review
Authors: Stanković Mima , Čaprić Ilma , Katanić Borko , Špirtović Omer , Maljanović Džejla , Nailović Hamza , Muković Iso , Jelaska Igor , Trajković Nebojša
Published: May 2024

Background

Although previous studies have reported that proprioceptive training methods (PTM) have positive effects, there is a relatively small number of studies regarding the impact of PTM in women’s soccer. Therefore, there is a need to systematize the given results. In this regard, this systematic review aimed to investigate the effect of proprioceptive training methods in female soccer players.

Methods

The studies’ search and analysis were done according to the PRISMA guidelines. The following databases were checked (Google Scholar, PubMed Cochrane and ProQuest), with additional publication time criteria (2000–2023) using the following keywords: proprioceptive, balance, neuromuscular, training, exercise, intervention, method, activity, female football players, female soccer players, woman soccer players.

Results

A total of 7 studies were included in the quantitative synthesis that meet all the criteria with the number of participants being 2.247. Based on the analysis of the previous research and detailed discussion, the main findings of the study resulted in the partial improvement of explosive strength (66%), strength (50%), muscle imbalance and flexibility (50%) and the prevention and reduction of lower extremity injuries in female soccer players (60%). Only one study reported no significant differences between groups, where rate of major injuries was higher in experimental group.

Conclusion

The obtained results indicate the necessity to implement proprioceptive training in female soccer training programs, in order to influence the prevention and reduction of injuries and improve balance, proprioceptive ability and body control.
Transplanting human infant gut microbiome species into Galleria mellonella
Authors: Gooch Harriet C.C. , Labedan Marjorie , Hall Lindsay J. , Maxwell Anthony
Published: May 2024

Objective

Study of the human infant gut microbiome requires the use of surrogate mammalian species such as mice. We sought to investigate the usefulness of the greater wax moth larva, Galleria mellonella, as an alternative.

Results

We have analysed the native gut microbiome of Galleria and developed methods for clearing the native microbiome and introducing species from human infant faecal samples. We find that some species, e.g. enterococci, are more successful at recolonisation, but that others, e.g. Bifidobacterium, are less so. The work paves the way for using Galleria rather than mice in this and similar work.
An isolated vaginal metastasis from rectal cancer: a case report
Authors: Sakhri Saida , Zemni Ines , Ayadi Mohamed Ali , Ghazouani Ayoub , Boujelbene Nadia , Ben Dhiab Tarek
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Vaginal metastasis from colorectal cancer is a rare occurrence, typically associated with other metastatic lesions. Isolated metastasis is exceedingly uncommon, with only a few cases documented in the literature. Vaginal involvement in colorectal cancer primarily results from direct contiguous spread from the primary tumor.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 70-year-old African woman diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the middle rectum. She underwent chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and subsequent anterior resection. After 2 months, an isolated metastasis of rectal cancer was identified in the lower third of the left vaginal wall, confirmed by biopsy. Colonoscopy ruled out colorectal recurrence. Thoraco-abdominal computed tomography scan showed no distant metastases. The patient underwent abdominoperineal resection, removing the lateral and posterior vaginal wall with free macroscopic margins and a definitive colostomy. The final histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma of the vagina, measuring 5 × 4.5 cm. The rectal wall was extrinsically invaded by the tumor down to the muscularis propria while respecting the rectal mucosa. Resection margins were negative. The patient was discharged 1 week postoperation with no complications. Adjuvant chemotherapy was indicated, and the patient is currently tolerating the treatment well.

Conclusion

Vaginal metastases from colorectal cancer are extremely rare. A vigilant gynecological examination is recommended during the follow-up of colorectal cancer patients. Diagnosis can be challenging, especially if the metastatic lesion is small and asymptomatic, even after standard radiological examination. Surgical resection followed by chemotherapy is a valid option for patients with early isolated metastases.
Lake microbiome composition determines community adaptability to warming perturbations
Authors: Wu Xiaotong , Zhou Qixing , Zeng Hui , Hu Xiangang
Published: May 2024

Background

Microbial communities are crucial for ecosystems. A central goal of microbial ecological research is to simplify the biodiversity in natural environments and quantify the functional roles to explore how the ecosystems respond under different environmental conditions. However, the research on the stability and dynamics of lake microbes in response to repeated warming stress is limited.

Methods

To exclude confounding environmental factors, we conducted a 20-day repeated warming simulation experiment to examine the composition and function dynamics of lake microbial communities.

Results

Experimental warming significantly altered the community structure of bacteria instead of fungi. Microbial community structure, together with microbial biomass, jointly regulated the function of microbial communities. The plummeting of aerobic denitrifiers Pseudomonadaceae decreased by 99% (P < 0.001) after high temperature, leading to reduced microbial nitrogen metabolism on nitrogen respiration and nitrate respiration. Under warming conditions, the microbial community with higher adaptability showed more positive correlations and less competitive relationships in co-occurrence networks to acclimate to warming.

Conclusion

Microbiome composition controlled carbon and nitrogen metabolism, thus determining lake microbial communities’ adaptability to heat stress. This study extended our insights on the lake microbial community response and adaptability under warming drivers.
Optimization and Characterization of Cementitious Composites Combining Maximum Amounts of Waste Glass Powder and Treated Glass Aggregates
Authors: Mezaouri Sarra , Kameche Zine El-Abidine , Siad Hocine , Lachemi Mohamed , Sahmaran Mustafa , Houmadi Youcef
Published: May 2024

This work investigates the combined use of waste glass aggregates (GA) and glass powder (GP) in cementitious mortars. For this reason, the optimized incorporation of GA by natural aggregates (NA) replacements was first studied after applying a surface roughening method with hydrofluoric acid. The compressive strength results were utilized to select the best mixture with GA. Then, different GP contents were added by cements substitutions to the optimized GA-based mortar. A control mortar without GA and GP amounts was also casted as a reference for comparison. The detailed mechanical, physical and durability properties of the resulted mixtures with combined GA and GP were assessed by considering the compressive and flexural strengths, ultra-sonic pulse velocity, alkali-silica reaction (ASR), rapid chloride permeability test (RCPT), magnesium sulphate attack and sulfuric acid resistance. The microstructure of different optimized (GA + GP)-combinations was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS)in order to analyse the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) between glass materials and the surrounding matrix. The results showed that the optimized composition with 75% GA and 25% GP was shown with high compacity and durability characteristics due to the increased GA/matrix ITZ and the formation of C–(N,K)–S–H products with C–S–H.
A survey of ictal physical examination during VEEG monitoring in a tertiary epilepsy center
Authors: Li Yinping , Hu Xiaoying , Zhang Shufang , Chen Jiani
Published: May 2024

Background

Ictal examination based on video-based electroencephalography (EEG) is crucial for locating and lateralizing seizures. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the quality of ictal examination in the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, in order to provide information for quality improvement in daily clinical practice.

Methods

Video recordings of 100 patients with epilepsy were retrospectively reviewed. The performance of the ictal examination was independently reviewed by two epileptologists using an ictal examination protocol.

Results

In this retrospective analysis, 589 seizure episodes from 100 patients with epilepsy were reviewed. The ages of the patients ranged from 3 to 77 years, with a mean age of 25.8 ± 12.8 years. Among the 589 seizure episodes, a majority (93.7%) were focal seizures. For 226 (38.4%) seizures, the medical staff arrived at the bedside. Among them, 153 (153/226, 64.7%) seizure episodes, the medical staff arrival at the bedside within 30 s of onset, and 120 (120/226, 53.1%) seizures were tested by the medical staff. The compliance rates for "safety” and "visibility" reached 80% or higher while “naming”, “retelling”, and “memory testing” only reach less than 3%.

Conclusions

Our survey identified the main problems in ictal assessments. It is challenging to complete a standardized examination for new trainees at Epilepsy Monitoring Units. Regularly strengthening training in ictal examination and understanding of semiology may improve patients’ examination ability. However, further study of the implementation of training is necessary.
Therapeutic potential of gelatine methacrylate hydrogels loaded with macrophage-derived exosomes for accelerating angiogenesis and cutaneous wound healing
Authors: Liu Jiajun , Chen Fuying , Tian Luoqiang , Wu Jinjie , Liu Keting , Wan Qiwen , Yuan Bo , Zhu Xiangdong , Chen Xuening , Zhang Xingdong
Published: May 2024

Extensive studies demonstrate that macrophage response plays an important role in regulating angiogenesis via a paracrine way, which is crucial for skin wound repair. This study isolated and characterized nanosized exosomes from differently polarized macrophages (MΦ), including M0 (naïve), M1 (pro-inflammatory), and M2 (anti-inflammatory) macrophages, and further assessed their impacts on angiogenesis and skin regeneration. Our results indicated that compared to M0 and M1 counterparts, M2 macrophage-derived exosomes (M2-Exos) exhibited a pronounced ability to promote angiogenic ability of of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) by enhancing expression of angiogenic genes and proteins, increasing cell migration, and improving tubulogenesis. Bioinformatics analyses suggested that the distinct angiogenic potentials of three MΦ-Exos might be attributed to the differentially expressed angiogenesis-related miRNAs and their target genes such as Stat3, Smad 2, and Smad4. Moreover, these isolated MΦ-Exos were integrated with gelatine methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogels to achieve the sustained delivery at murine full-thickness cutaneous wound sites. In vivo results showed that Gel/M2-Exos significantly augmented angiogenesis, accelerated re-epithelialization, promoted collagen maturity, thereby promoting wound healing. In contrary, Gel/M1-Exos showed the opposite effects. Our findings provided compelling evidence that the polarization status of macrophages significantly affected angiogenesis and wound healing via the miRNA cargos of their derived exosomes. Moreover, this study opens a new avenue for developing nano-scale, cell-free exosome-based therapies in treating cutaneous wounds.

Graphical abstract
Prevalence of GIT symptoms in patients of COVID 19 and role of rectal PCR in detecting COVID 19 with GIT symptoms
Authors: Ahmed Ahmed Elmetwally , Awad Emad Ahmed , Mohamed Manal Sabry , Abdelrady Abdelrhman Haggag , Ismail Moamen Abdelfadil , El-Gaaly Sonya Ahmed Ali
Published: May 2024

Background

In December 2019, a cluster of patients with pneumonia of undetermined etiology was recognized in Wuhan, Hubei, China. Subsequently, a novel coronavirus (Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome- related Coronavirus) (SARS-CoV-2) was identified from lower respiratory tract samples obtained from affected patients. The clinical manifestation of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 19) is broad and ranges from asymptomatic and mild upper respiratory tract symptoms to severe illnesses with multi-organ failure and death. Furthermore, it is challenging to predict the clinical course or determine patients at risk of deterioration.

Aim of the work

The aim of our study is to assess prevalence of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) symptoms in COVID 19 infected patients and to assess significance of rectal PCR in detecting COVID 19 patients with gastrointestinal symptoms.

Patients and methods

This study was conducted on 100 adult COVID 19 patients recently diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All patients were submitted to clinical examination, laboratory testing for Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), C-Reactive Protein,(CRP), Complete Blood Count (CBC), and D-dimer. Radiological investigations in the form of Computed Tomography Chest were reported by radiologist for all patients (High resolution computed tomography). Nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal and rectal swabs were collected for COVID-19 (PCR) test. All patients received COVID-19 treatment according to protocols of World Health Organization (WHO) and Ministry of Health and Population, Egypt.

Results

We found that GI symptoms are prevalent among COVID-19 Egyptian patients (64%). The most common GIT symptoms were Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. We observed that 25 patients (25%) had positive viral RiboNucleic Acid (RNA) in rectal swab. Nausea was manifested in 38 patients (38%), Vomiting was manifested in 24 patients (24%), diarrhea was manifested in 21 patients (21%), pain was manifested in 22 patients (22%), hematemesis was manifested in 3 patients (3%) and melena was manifested in 2 patients (2%).

Conclusion

The results of current study demonstrated that GIT symptoms are prevalent among COVID-19 Egyptian patients (64%) with Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea to be most common symptoms. Rectal PCR was found in 25 patients, all of them had GIT symptoms but it was statistically non-significant result when compared to the overall number of COVID-19 infected patients. Severe COVID-19 was more frequent in older age.
Rock physics-based anisotropy parameters estimation of Marcellus Shale using log data acquired in a vertical well
Authors: Asaka Michinori
Published: May 2024

The elastic properties of shale rock exhibit anisotropy due to the presence of highly anisotropic clay minerals and their alignment. This anisotropy has a significant impact on geophysical and geomechanical responses. However, the elastic anisotropy of shale is often overlooked due to the difficulty in measuring sufficient parameters in the field, resulting in a gap between theoretical understanding and practical implementation. To address this issue, a rock physics-based approach was tested on log data obtained from a vertical well in the Marcellus Shale to estimate anisotropy parameters. The approach utilized a rock physics model based on the Sayers-den Boer method with model parameters optimized using measured stiffness parameters C33, C55, and C66. Anisotropy parameters δ and ε were then calculated using these optimized model parameters. The optimized model parameters and estimated anisotropy parameters are consistent with existing studies, indicating the correctness of the model. Additionally, the rock physics model was used to investigate the impact of gas saturation on the vertical VP/VS ratio and ε/γ ratio. It was found that gas saturation has a significant impact on these ratios. This carries important implications for acoustic log data interpretation and seismic characterization of shales.
A new rock physics model for fractured oil shale reservoirs in Mahu oil field
Authors: Hongyan Qi , Caiguang Liu , Tingming Tang , Gang Chen , Zhenlin Wang , Liang Li , Qingyong Luo , Genyang Tang
Published: May 2024

The exploration of unconventional reservoirs such as oil shale has become a focus of research in the oil/gas industry, but due to the diversity of lithology and structural complexity of shale reservoirs, the study of their rock physics laws is a challenge. By analyzing the physical, lithologic, and fluid characteristics of oil shale reservoirs in the Mahu area of Xinjiang, China, we adopted a variety of effective-medium theories to carry out rock physics modeling. We analyzed the differences in the calculation results of various theoretical models, and finally constructed a set of rock physics modeling processes suitable for oil shale reservoirs. The analysis shows that the calculation results of Voigt-Reuss-Hill (VRH) and Hashin-Shtrikman (HS) average for mixed mineral matrix are very similar, but there are certain differences between the upper and lower bounds calculated by them. The upper and lower bounds of HS average are closer than VRH average. We used the Kuster-Toksoz effective-medium, differential effective-medium (DEM), and self-consistent approximation models to construct the rock skeleton and analyzed the differences of the models. The results of the three models are almost identical, but their assumptions and limitations differ. We used DEM in the final shale model, considering the large porosity and the order of inclusion filling. According to the fracture distribution characteristics of oil shale reservoirs, we used an inclined fracture model to describe the fractures with different structural characteristics. Finally, the established shale rock physics model was used to calculate the actual logging data, and the results of elastic parameters are consistent with the measured data. Through the inversion of the fracture parameters, the inversion results are consistent with the measured results as a whole, indicating that the model has certain applicability to the simulation of oil shale reservoirs.
Efficiency of machine learning to predict gas accumulations
Authors: Mohamad Islam Y. , Helal Abdel-Nasser M. , El-Rawy Azza M.
Published: May 2024

A growing number of research geophysicists are drawn to machine learning in geophysical applications. At the moment, direct applications of machine learning cover an expansive range of tasks related to the interpretation of seismic data. Beginning with computer-assisted seismic well tying, faults and horizons are automatically interpreted, velocity models are optimized, geobodies are extracted, and seismic facies are classified. Our goal is to demonstrate how artificial neural networks may be used to teach a computer to categorize seismic data and anticipate possible gas accumulations, starting from selecting training data, through filtering the best discriminating attributes, monitoring the learning process, and ending with running the predictions. This workflow was applied on a Dana Gas Messininan gas field in the Nile Delta province of Egypt. The network was trained on a few seismic points in the vicinity of one successful well as positive training examples. The network not only accurately predicted the gas accumulation near the training points but also the other nearby stratigraphically compartmentalized gas accumulations, aligning with production and pressure data of the hidden wells. Similar findings were obtained when the results were compared to classical amplitude variation with offset elastic inversion; however, the machine learning methodology is far faster and easier than the inversion in terms of procedural steps and required work.
Elective Pelvic Lymph Node Radiation Therapy and the Risk of Death in Patients With Unfavorable-Risk Prostate Cancer: A Postrandomization Analysis
Authors: Sayan Mutlay , Chen Ming-Hui , Loffredo Marian , McMahon Elizabeth , Moningi Shalini , Orio Peter F. , Nguyen Paul L. , D'Amico Anthony V.
Published: May 2024

PURPOSE

Although a contemporary randomized clinical trial has led to the use of whole-pelvic radiation therapy (WPRT), long-term data evaluating a potential reduction in mortality are lacking and are addressed in the current study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 2005 to 2015, 350 men with localized, unfavorable-risk prostate cancer (PC) were randomly assigned to receive androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and RT plus docetaxel versus ADT and RT. Treatment of the pelvic lymph nodes was at the discretion of the treating physician. Multivariable Cox and Fine and Grays regression analyses were performed to assess whether a significant association existed between radiation treatment volume and all-cause mortality (ACM) and PC-specific mortality (PCSM), respectively, adjusting for known PC prognostic factors and comorbidity. An interaction term between age (categorized by dichotomization at 65 years to enable clinical interpretation and applicability of the results and which approximates the median (66 years [IQR, 61-70]) and radiation treatment volume was included in the analysis.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 10.20 years (IQR, 7.96-11.41), 89 men died (25.43%); of these, 42 died of PC (47.19%). Of the 350 randomly assigned patients, 88 (25.14%) received WPRT. In men younger than 65 years, WPRT was associated with a significantly lower ACM risk (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 0.33 [95% CI, 0.11 to 0.97]; P = .04) and lower PCSM risk (AHR, 0.17 [95% CI, 0.02 to 1.35]; P = .09) after adjusting for covariates, whereas this was not the case for men 65 years or older.

CONCLUSION

WPRT has the potential to reduce mortality in younger men with unfavorable-risk PC.
Natural History and Genomic Landscape of Chemotherapy-Resistant Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Lenis Andrew T. , Whiting Karissa , Ravichandran Vignesh , Tallman Jacob E. , Alam Syed M. , Chu Carissa E. , Jesus Escano Manual De , Bochner Emily , Katims Andrew , Reisz Peter A. , Truong Hong , Clinton Timothy N. , Telis Leon , Dason Shawn , McPherson Victor , Teo Min Yuen , Funt Samuel , Aggen David , Goh Alvin C. , Donahue Timothy F. , Cha Eugene K. , Donat S. Machele , Herr Harry W. , Dalbagni Guido , Schultz Nikolaus , Berger Michael F. , Bajorin Dean F. , Rosenberg Jonathan E. , Bochner Bernard H. , Ostrovnaya Irina , Al-Ahmadie Hikmat , Solit David B. , Iyer Gopa , Pietzak Eugene J.
Published: May 2024

PURPOSE

Patients with residual invasive bladder cancer after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and radical cystectomy have a poor prognosis. Data on adjuvant therapy for these patients are conflicting. We sought to evaluate the natural history and genomic landscape of chemotherapy-resistant bladder cancer to inform patient management and clinical trials.

METHODS

Data were collected on patients with clinically localized muscle-invasive urothelial bladder cancer treated with NAC and cystectomy at our institution between May 15, 2001, and August 15, 2019, and completed four cycles of gemcitabine and cisplatin NAC, excluding those treated with adjuvant therapies. Survival was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify predictors of recurrence-free survival (RFS). Genomic alterations were identified in targeted exome sequencing (Memorial Sloan Kettering Integrated Mutation Profiling of Actionable Cancer Targets) data from post-NAC specimens from a subset of patients.

RESULTS

Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) was the strongest predictor of RFS (hazard ratio, 2.15 [95% CI, 1.37 to 3.39]) on multivariable analysis. Patients with ypT2N0 disease without LVI had a significantly prolonged RFS compared with those with LVI (70% RFS at 5 years). Lymph node yield did not affect RFS. Among patients with sequencing data (n = 101), chemotherapy-resistant tumors had fewer alterations in DNA damage response genes compared with tumors from a publicly available chemotherapy-naïve cohort (15% v 29%; P = .021). Alterations in CDKN2A/B were associated with shorter RFS. PIK3CA alterations were associated with LVI. Potentially actionable alterations were identified in more than 75% of tumors.

CONCLUSION

Although chemotherapy-resistant bladder cancer generally portends a poor prognosis, patients with organ-confined disease without LVI may be candidates for close observation without adjuvant therapy. The genomic landscape of chemotherapy-resistant tumors is similar to chemotherapy-naïve tumors. Therapeutic opportunities exist for targeted therapies as adjuvant treatment in chemotherapy-resistant disease.
Serial Postoperative Circulating Tumor DNA Assessment Has Strong Prognostic Value During Long-Term Follow-Up in Patients With Breast Cancer
Authors: Shaw Jacqueline A. , Page Karen , Wren Evie , de Bruin Elza C. , Kalashnikova Ekaterina , Hastings Robert , McEwen Rob , Zhang Eddie , Wadsley Marc , Acheampong Emmanuel , Renner Derrick , Gleason Kelly L.T. , Ambasager Bana , Stetson Daniel , Fernandez-Garcia Daniel , Guttery David , Allsopp Rebecca C. , Rodriguez Angel , Zimmermann Bernhard , Sethi Himanshu , Aleshin Alexey , Liu Minetta C. , Richards Cathy , Stebbing Justin , Ali Simak , Rehman Farah , Cleator Susan , Kenny Laura , Ahmed Samreen , Armstrong Anne C. , Coombes R. Charles
Published: May 2024

PURPOSE

Here, we report the sensitivity of a personalized, tumor-informed circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) assay (Signatera) for detection of molecular relapse during long-term follow-up of patients with breast cancer.

METHODS

A total of 156 patients with primary breast cancer were monitored clinically for up to 12 years after surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy. Semiannual blood samples were prospectively collected, and analyzed retrospectively to detect residual disease by ultradeep sequencing using ctDNA assays, developed from primary tumor whole-exome sequencing data.

RESULTS

Personalized Signatera assays detected ctDNA ahead of clinical or radiologic relapse in 30 of the 34 patients who relapsed (patient-level sensitivity of 88.2%). Relapse was predicted with a lead interval of up to 38 months (median, 10.5 months; range, 0-38 months), and ctDNA positivity was associated with shorter relapse-free survival (
P
< .0001) and overall survival (
P
< .0001). All relapsing triple-negative patients (n = 7/23) had a ctDNA-positive test within a median of 8 months (range, 0-19 months), while the 16 nonrelapsed patients with triple-negative breast cancer remained ctDNA-negative during a median follow-up of 58 months (range, 8-99 months). The four patients who had negative tests before relapse all had hormone receptor–positive (HR+) disease and conversely, five of the 122 nonrelapsed patients (all HR+) had an occasional positive test.

CONCLUSION

Serial postoperative ctDNA assessment has strong prognostic value, provides a potential window for earlier therapeutic intervention, and may enable more effective monitoring than current clinical tests such as cancer antigen 15-3. Our study provides evidence that those with serially negative ctDNA tests have superior clinical outcomes, providing reassurance to patients with breast cancer. For select cases with HR+ disease, decisions about treatment management might require serial monitoring despite the ctDNA-positive result.
Quantum thermometry based on interferometric power
Authors: Yang Hongying , Zheng Qiang , Yue Ping , Zhi Qijun
Published: May 2024

In the field of quantum thermometry, usually temperature is estimated by the framework of quantum metrology. In this work, an alternative approach to quantum thermometry is suggested, based on interferometric power (IP). IP is defined as the worst-case quantum Fisher information in a double-channel interferometer. Specifically, the time evolution of the IP for a two-qubit state as a probe contacting with a finite-temperature bath is considered. The IP dynamics of the probe with three kinds of initial states (i.e., entangled, separable, and mixed) strongly depend on the bath temperature. The dynamical evolution of IP would be measured experimentally, considering that the IP is a measurable quantity in the experiment. Thus, the IP dynamics can be adopted to extract the value of the bath temperature directly. In this sense, the IP could be exploited as a quantum thermometer.
Subtemporal Approach for the Treatment of Ruptured and Unruptured Distal Basilar Artery Aneurysms: Is There a Contemporary Use?
Authors: Findlay Matthew C. , Bounajem Michael T. , Kim Robert B. , Henson J. Curran , Azab Mohammed A. , Cutler Christopher B. , Khan Majid , Brandon Cameron , Budohoski Karol P. , Rennert Robert C. , Couldwell William T.
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Distal basilar artery aneurysms (DBAs) are high-risk lesions for which endovascular treatment is preferred because of their deep location, yet indications for open clipping nonetheless remain. The subtemporal approach allows for early proximal control and direct visualization of critical posterior perforating arteries, especially for posterior-projecting aneurysms. Our objective was to describe our clinical experience with the subtemporal approach for clipping DBAs in the evolving endovascular era.

METHODS:

This was a retrospective, single-institution case series of patients with DBAs treated with microsurgery over a 21-year period (2002-2023). Demographic, clinical, and surgical data were collected for analysis.

RESULTS:

Twenty-seven patients underwent clipping of 11 ruptured and 16 unruptured DBAs with a subtemporal approach (24 female; mean age 53 years). Ten patients had expanded craniotomies for treatment of additional aneurysms. The aneurysm occlusion rate was 100%. Good neurological outcomes as defined by the modified Rankin Scale score ≤2 and Glasgow Outcome Scale score ≥4 were achieved in 21/27 patients (78%). Two patients died before hospital discharge, one from vasospasm-induced strokes and another from an intraoperative myocardial infarction.

CONCLUSION:

These results demonstrate that microsurgical clip ligation of DBAs using the subtemporal approach remains a viable option for complex lesions not amenable to endovascular management.
HIF-1α-dependent upregulation of angiogenic factors by mechanical stimulation in retinal pigment epithelial cells
Authors: Ashimori Atsushige , Higashijima Fumiaki , Ogata Tadahiko , Sakuma Ayano , Hamada Waka , Sunada Junki , Aoki Ren , Mikuni Masanori , Hayashi Ken'ichiro , Wakuta Makiko , Yoshimoto Takuya , Minamoto Akira , Ko Ji-Ae , Kimura Kazuhiro
Published: May 2024

Mechanical stimulation as a mimic of drusen formation in the eye increases the expression of angiogenic factors in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. We investigated and characterized the effects of mechanical stimulation on the expression of angiogenic factors in RPE cells both in vitro and in a mouse model. Mechanical stimulation increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF, encoded by VEGFA) and other angiogenesis-related genes in cultured RPE1 cells. The presence of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α, encoded by HIF1A) was also increased, and both knockdown of HIF-1α and treatment with the HIF-1α inhibitor CAY10585 attenuated the effect of mechanical stimulation on angiogenesis factor gene expression. Signaling by the tyrosine kinase SRC and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase was involved in HIF-1α activation and consequent angiogenesis-related gene expression induced by mechanical stimulation. Our results suggest that SRC–p38 and HIF-1α signaling are involved in the upregulation of angiogenic factors in RPE cells by mechanical stimulation. Such in vivo suppression of upregulated expression of angiogenesis-related genes by pharmacological inhibitors of HIF-1α suggests a new potential approach to the treatment of age-related macular degeneration.
pHusion – a robust and versatile toolset for automated detection and analysis of exocytosis
Authors: O'Shaughnessy Ellen C. , Lam Mable , Ryken Samantha E. , Wiesner Theresa , Lukasik Kimberly , Zuchero J. Bradley , Leterrier Christophe , Adalsteinsson David , Gupton Stephanie L.
Published: May 2024

Exocytosis is a fundamental process used by eukaryotes to regulate the composition of the plasma membrane and facilitate cell–cell communication. To investigate exocytosis in neuronal morphogenesis, previously we developed computational tools with a graphical user interface to enable the automatic detection and analysis of exocytic events from fluorescence timelapse images. Although these tools were useful, we found the code was brittle and not easily adapted to different experimental conditions. Here, we developed and validated a robust and versatile toolkit, named pHusion, for the analysis of exocytosis, written in ImageTank, a graphical programming language that combines image visualization and numerical methods. We tested pHusion using a variety of imaging modalities and pH-sensitive fluorophores, diverse cell types and various exocytic markers, to generate a flexible and intuitive package. Using this system, we show that VAMP3-mediated exocytosis occurs 30-times more frequently in melanoma cells compared with primary oligodendrocytes, that VAMP2-mediated fusion events in mature rat hippocampal neurons are longer lasting than those in immature murine cortical neurons, and that exocytic events are clustered in space yet random in time in developing cortical neurons.