bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deployment of One of Its Kind Slim Coiled Tubing Tractor to Overcome Reach Issue in Extended Reach Restricted Smart Completed Wells
Authors: Murtaza Shoaib , Hajri Muhammad A , Saeed Abubaker S , Alhuraifi Mohammed A
Published: November 2020

Several extended reach-restricted completion-smart wells required matrix acid stimulation using Coiled Tubing (CT). These wells are equipped with Mechanical Formation Isolation Valve (MFIV) in the tubing end which needs to be reopened by using CT to access mother-bore for performing acid job. CT simulation results for these wells showed coil can reach only 60-70% of open hole interval. Calibrated friction coefficients were used in CT simulation based on the data base developed from other wells in the same area. Only CT-Tractor simulation showed 100% reach with maximum tractor over pull of 3200 lbs from the lock-up depth.

World’s slimmest CT tractor was developed in collaboration specifically to address the challenges of extending CT reach past lock-up depth during acidizing and other intervention jobs in minimum restriction extended reach well. The world’s slimmest tractor (2 1/8" outside diameter; OD) was able to provide a pulling force of 3200 lbs and was powered by intervention fluid pumped through coiled tubing. The tractor has many failsafe features and self-cleaning mechanism of gripper arms to overcome the challenges encountered while tractoring in open hole.

Four smart wells (with minimum restriction 2.81") were successfully matrix acid stimulated while the CT-Tractor combination were able to extend the reach of CT beyond lock-up depth. CT-Tractor was run-in-hole (RIH) to lock-up depth and then tractor was activated from that depth to extend the reach of CT. At total depth (TD), the tractor was isolated and de-activated by dropping steel ball. The wells were acid stimulated while pulling-out-of-hole (POH). Pre-flush was pumped while RIH at low pumping rate to avoid activating tractor before lock-up depth and after lock-up, pre-flush was pumped through tractor to activate the tractor.

This paper outlines the tractor characteristics, matrix acid stimulation jobs design parameters, detailed operational data captured and the learning curve achieved during job execution.
Reservoir Monitoring, Well Diagnostic, and Stimulation Job Evaluation using Permanent Fiber Optics Distributed Temperature Sensing DTS in a Mature Field
Authors: Minggu Nur'ain , Ting Chang Siong , Ho Dylan Zhe , Kamat Dahlila , Riyanto Latief , Zamdy Siti Nurdyana , Kalidas Sanggeetha , Tan Chee Seong , Kamarulzaman Ammar , Malaniya Georgy , Kortukov Dmitry
Published: November 2020

As part of the reservoir monitoring effort in Field X (Offshore East Malaysia), five oil producers were deployed with double-ended fiber optics cable across reservoir sections and permanent downhole gauges (PDG). Each well has between 2 to 4 zones. This has enabled various distributed temperature sensing (DTS) benefits such as gas-lift monitoring, well integrity, zonal-inflow profiling, and stimulation job evaluation, etc. This paper demonstrates and discusses the approach of incorporating both DTS & PDG data in Well B-1 to intrepret temperature signatures andanomalies during recent tubing-integrity tests, matrix acidizing and post-job production performance. Well B-1 is a gas lifted well that consists of three zones, and its production has been declining over years due to potential formation damage during drilling and fines migration issue. Hence, Well B-1 has been selected for matrix acidizing treatment to enhance the productivity. Prior to execution of the acidizing job, several conformance jobs such as tubing-integrity tests, injectivity test, and tubing pickling were performed. A baseline temperature was acquired to assist in the evaluation.

Due to operational challenges, the DTS data transmission wasn't acquired in real-time. However, each event's temperature profile has been studied thoroughly against the actual event schedule. Some significant findings are i) completion accessories effect (feedthrough packers) creates temperature anomalies, and ii) several leak points detected mainly between two upper zones where there was significant cooling effect due to injected fluid. The first-stage main treatment was conducted focusing on Zone 3. Due to leak points between the two upper zones, Zone 3 didn't get the designated main treatment volume. Second-stage main treatment, Zone 1 & 2 were treated together due to time constraint unlike Zone 3.

Post job production temperature profiles showed significant changes in the flowing temperature slope compared to pre-treament profile where there is an increase in overall wellbore temperature indicating increase in liquid volume and Zone 2 indicating higher Joule-Thompson cooling effect (more gas production).
Optimization of Drilling Parameters using an Innovative GA-PS Artificial Intelligence Model
Authors: Ashena Rahman , Rabiei Minou , Rasouli Vamegh , Mohammadi Amir H.
Published: November 2020

Proper selection of the drilling parameters and dynamic behavior is a critical factor in improving drilling performance and efficiency. Real-time monitoring allows the driller to avoid detrimental drill string vibrations and maintain optimum drilling conditions through periodic adjustments of various dynamic control parameters (such as weight on bit, rotary speed, circulation rate). However, selection of the appropriate parameters is not a trivial task. A few iterations in parameter modification may be essential before the desired target rate of penetration (ROP) is obtained; however, the final result may not be optimal yet. Therefore, the development of an efficient artificial intelligence (AI) method to predict the appropriate control parameters is critical for drilling optimization.

The AI approach presented in this paper uses the power of optimized Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) to model the behavior of the non-linear, multi- input/output drilling system. The optimization of the model was achieved by optimizing the controllers (combined Genetic Algorithm, GA and Pattern Search, PS) to reach the global optima, which also provides the drilling planning team with a quantified recommendation on the appropriate optimal drilling parameters. Development of the optimized ANN model used drilling parameters data which were recorded real-time from drilling practices in different lithological units. Representative portions of the data sets were utilized in training, testing and validation of the model.

The results of the analysis has demonstrated the AI method to be a promising approach for simulation and prediction of the behavior of the complex multi-parameter drilling system. This method is a powerful alternative to traditional analytic or real-time manipulation of the drilling parameters for mitigation of drill string vibrations and invisible lost time. The utilization can be extended to the field of drilling control and optimization, which can lead to a great contribution of 73% in reduction of the drilling time.

This work demonstrates the capability of the optimizing controller (combination of GA and PS) to improve the efficiency and accuracy of the conventional ANN for drilling optimization.
Process Automation for Integrated Gas Lift Surveillance and Optimization at Large Scale
Authors: Mehran Fatemeh , Didanloo Ali
Published: November 2020

The super-giant field under study is one of largest oil producers in Middle East and been producing for more than 50 years from a multilayered carbonate reservoir. Long-term sustainability of production of the field is a key mission for the field operator and national oil company, considering both productivity and recovery of the field. Gas lift has been considered as an effective and economically feasible method to increase production of the wells and as a solution to revive the closed wells and to maintain the production of flowing wells.

Prior to full field implementation, a gas lift pilot has been initiated in the field. The objective of the pilot is to collect further essential information and evaluate the challenges prior to the full field implementation.

At the well scale, managing the well lift rate allocation, monitoring the performance of gas lift valves and running diagnostics, and optimizing the production rate are the main challenges for the gas lift pilot. At the full field network level, the backpressures of the lifted wells are affecting the production of the other wells producing naturally.

A commercial three-phase flow simulator was used to build the well models as well as the pilot network, with certain boundary conditions to develop a scalable solution to enable the operations and headquarters teams to provide a timely solution to the mentioned challenges. To integrate all inputs from various disciplines, the information from the monitoring activities and from reservoir saturation and production logging tools in addition to well test data and gas lift surveys was used to develop the solution.

The gas lift management solution was evaluated in the pilot area to diagnose the gas lift valves, validate well tests, optimize gas lift allocation, enhance well production, and perform field-wide production optimization The solution also reveals gas lift candidate wells with the potential to increase the production and directs redistribution of the lift gas in the pilot area to minimize gas utilization.

Additionally, to introduce scalable solution which can be utilized at very large wells count, automation of the workflow process has been considered to provide efficiency for engineers which will get advise from the solution.
Data While Tripping DWT: Keeping the Light on Downhole
Authors: Jeffery Christopher , Pink Stephen , Taylor Jennifer , Hewlett Richard
Published: November 2020

The objective of this paper is to discuss and outline the invention of the data while tripping (DWT) device, why it was developed, the development process, introduction to the market, and proven value for the end user.

A ‘Fail fast’ and ‘Test to Failure’ approach was taken where 3-D printing, simple prototypes, and components testing was performed before building gradually more sophisticated prototypes, all of which were tested to destruction. Based on learnings, a final test version was built and tested to 60 times the customer's requirements in a controlled environment.

The DWT device was deployed in the fall of 2019 on two offshore rigs in the North Sea for final prototype testing. This gave the basis for refinements leading up to the commercial version of the DWT device, as well as proving the conceptual value of the device; no people required in the red zone while tripping a wired drill pipe string, continuous downhole along string pressure measurements, continuous logging while tripping utilizing bottomhole assembly (BHA) tools, and continuous down hole and along string data input for automated drilling applications. Additionally, considerable time savings were proven.

The concept of being connected to a wired drill string during tripping operations has been on the industry's wish list for years. The lack of this technology has, on many occasions, been a showstopper for selecting wired drill pipe for drilling operations. The introduction of the DWT device has shown to be a success for both proving the value of deploying wired drill pipe (turning the lights on downhole) as well as staying connected to the downhole network while tripping (keeping the lights on downhole) – both systems enabling data flow without mud flow.
Verification and Validation of Subsea Flowline Connectors - Correlating Results
Authors: Rahayem, Ph.D. Mohamed
Published: November 2020

Subsea flowline connectors are crucial components of subsea production system (SPS), ensuring the structural integrity and the pressure-containing connection between SPS components. This paper presents a correlation study between verification analysis and validation testing (V&V) results of a flowline connector structural capacity, hub separation and leak tightness performance requirements at extreme and accidental loads and according to API spec 17D, API spec 6A and API-RP-17R standards.

The presented V&V study consists of two steps:

In the first step, the flowline connector design verification requirements were defined and calculated using finite element analysis (FEA) in accordance to the applicable industry standards and considering combined separation loads.

In the second step, physical validation tests were used to validate the obtained FEA results. Strain gauges were used to verify the combined separation loads such as, bending Moment load and the connector locking force. In addition, four linear variable displacement transducers (LVDTs) mounted in the connector hubs and spaced with equal circumferential distance to quantify the actual hub separation at metal seal location.

The study highlights a significant and positive correlation between results from verification FEA and validation testing and proved the accuracy of FEA methodology that been used to determine the structural capacity, hub separation and leak-tightness performance requirements.

Additionally, a digital twin of the physical flowline connector has been established with a high confidence level which will be used to understand and predict the performance of flowline connectors at unpredicted extreme or accidental loads and for future development and optimization of subsea flowline connectors.

Finally, this paper, for the first time, presents a detailed and insightful correlation study between V&V results of subsea flowline connectors.
On the Valuation of Natural Resources: Real Options Analysis of Marginal Oilfield-Development Projects Under Multiple Uncertainties
Authors: Acheampong Theophilus
Published: November 2020

This paper shows the applicability and the value of real options analysis (ROA) in valuing a marginal undeveloped discovery in the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) under multiple project uncertainties, namely geology, costs, and oil prices. Marginal fields can prove uneconomic when developed under prevailing circumstances such as technical (reservoir size, infrastructure distance and remoteness, crude-oil type) or commercial issues (oil prices, high cost of development, lack of third-party-access arrangements), among others. As such, using traditional discounted-cash-flow (DCF) methodologies such as the net present value (NPV) might not adequately value the embedded options that these uncertainties create, leading to a rejection of the investment decision. Hence, we assess if the valuation differs if valued by the traditional DCF approach compared with ROA. We develop a valuation model for the traditional DCF and real options and specifically model the flexibility in the options to delay, abandon, or expand the field anytime during the relinquishment requirement period considering these multiple uncertainties. The binomial lattice and later the Black and Scholes models are used to model the options because of the flexibility they provide in incorporating early exercise. The results indicate that the DCF values lag those of the option values for the deferral and expansion options. In contrast, the abandonment option exhibited only a marginal change with respect to the DCF value. A significant implication of this finding is that management decision making will be better off considering these embedded options in their field-development and capital-investment choices.
Gastroprotective effects of Nelumbinis Rhizomatis Nodus carbonisata-derived carbon dots on ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats
Authors: Luo Juan , Hu Jie , Zhang Meiling , Zhang Yue , Wu Jiashu , Cheng Jinjun , Qu Huihua , Kong Hui , Zhao Yan
Published: November 2020

BackgroundGastric ulcers is a common gastrointestinal digestive system disease. Considering the frequency of human gastric ulcers, the side effects and cost of some existing synthetic drugs, the use of natural products is an important choice for many people. The aim of present study was to explore gastroprotective effects of nelumbinis rhizomatis nodus carbonisata carbon dots (NRNC-CDs) on ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats.MethodsThe NRNC-CDs were synthesized via high temperature calcinations treatment at 350 ℃ for 1 h were characterized by various spectroscopic and electron microscopy techniques for their structural, morphological, and optical properties. In vitro cytotoxicity of CDs for the human gastric epithelial cells line (GES-1 cells) was assessed by the CCK-8 assay. Furthermore, the study evaluated gastroprotective effects of NRNC-CDs on ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats, followed by a preliminary study on the possible mechanisms of gastroprotection.ResultesNRNC-CDs with a quantum yield of 1.38% have an average diameter of 2.89±0.82nm and the lattice spacing of 0.29 nm , and exerted low toxicity to GES-1 cells by CCK-8 test. In vivo experiments showed that NRNC-CDs remarkably reduced gastric mucosal damage and significantly increased the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px). In addition, NRNC-CDs also significantly inhibited tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) and pro-inflammatory interleukin-6 (IL-6) level in gastric tissues. Histological findings demonstrated that NRNC-CDs exhibited a protective effect against tissue alterations in response to the ethanol-induced ulcer.ConclussionThe potent gastroprotective effect of NRNC-CDs were thus attributed to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This discovery provides guidance for further research the effect of CDs in gastrointestinal digestive diseases.
Facile fabrication of Tl4HgI6 nanostructures as a novel antibacterial and antibiofilm agents
Authors: Karami Maryam , Ghanbari Mojgan , Amiri Omid , SALAVATI-NIASARI MASOUD , Rashki Somaye
Published: November 2020

In the present study, Tl4HgI6 nanostructures have been successfully fabricated through a simple precipitation route. The impact of TlI stoichiometric ratio to HgI2, and kind of surfactants was explored on purity, structure, and shape of samples. The as-fabricated Tl4HgI6 was characterized via XRD, EDX, FESEM, TEM, HRTEM, and Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectrometry corroborated the XRD outcomes, and revealed that the Tl4HgI6 nanoparticles were successfully fabricated. The structure, shape, and scale of the products were studied through FESEM images. It was observed that different factors have a notable aspect on the morphology and size of the products. The maximum antibacterial activity of Tl4HgI6 was perceived against S. aureus, E.coli and M. catarils. These outcomes demonstrate that Tl4HgI6 displays efficient bactericidal activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms. The anti-biofilm activity revealed that the best reduction of biofilm was recognized in higher Tl4HgI6 concentrations (2×MIC). Tl4HgI6 at 2×MIC concentration inhibits biofilm production by S. aureus and E. feacalis with an inhibition percentage of 95% and 90%, respectively.
Soluble P-tau217 reflects both amyloid and tau pathology in the human brain and mediates the association of amyloid with neocortical tau
Authors: Mattsson-Carlgren Niklas , Janelidze Shorena , Bateman Randall , Smith Ruben , Stomrud Erik , Serrano Geidy , Reiman Eric , Palmqvist Sebastian , Dage Jeffrey , Beach Thomas , Hansson Oskar
Published: November 2020

Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by β-amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Plasma levels of phospho-tau217 (P-tau217) accurately differentiate Alzheimer’s disease dementia from other dementias, but it is unclear to what degree this reflects β-amyloid plaque accumulation, tau tangle accumulation, or both. In a cohort with post-mortem neuropathological data (N=88), both plaque and tangle density contributed independently to higher P-tau217. Several findings were replicated in a cohort with PET imaging (“BioFINDER-2”, N=426), where β-amyloid and tau PET were independently associated to P-tau217. P-tau217 correlated with β-amyloid PET (but not tau PET) in early disease stages, and with both β-amyloid and (more strongly) tau PET in late disease stages. Finally, P-tau217 mediated the association between β-amyloid and tau in both cohorts, especially for tau outside of the medial temporal lobe. These findings support the hypothesis that plasma P-tau217 is increased by both β-amyloid plaques and tau tangles and is congruent with the hypothesis that P-tau is involved in β-amyloid-dependent formation of neocortical tau tangles.
Single-cell RNA-Aequencing Reveals Novel Myofibroblasts with Epithelial Cell-Like Features in the Mammary Gland of Dairy Cattle
Authors: Gu Fengfei , Wu Jiajin , Zhu Senlin , Valencak Teresa G. , Liu Jian-Xin , Sun Hui-Zeng
Published: November 2020

Background: Cow’s milk is a highly-nutritious dairy product that is widely consumed worldwide. It is secreted by the developed mammary gland (MG) of dairy cattle. However, a comprehensive understanding of cell-type diversity and cell function within bovine MG is lacking. In the current study, we used single-cell RNA sequencing to investigate the transcriptome of 24,472 high-quality MG cells isolated from newborn and adult cows. Results: Unbiased clustering analysis revealed the existence of 24 cell types, which could be divided into four categories: 9 immune, 3 epithelial, 9 fibroblast, and 3 endothelial cell types. Other cell subtypes were further identified based on re-clustering and pseudotemporal reconstruction of epithelial cells that included 3 mature luminal epithelial, 1 intermediate, and 2 progenitor cell subtypes. The individual top marker genes of these 3 mature luminal epithelial cell subtypes (L0, L1, and L5) were APOA1, STC2, and PTX3, which were further validated using immunofluorescence. Based on functional analysis, the L0, L1, and L5 cell subtypes were all involved in the upregulation of lipid metabolism, protein and hormone metabolism, and the immune response, respectively. Furthermore, we discovered a novel myofibroblast that expresses COL1A1 and CSN3, has visible epithelial-like characteristics, and shows the potential to differentiate into luminal epithelial cells, especially immune-sensing luminal cells (L5). Conclusions: We constructed the first single-cell atlas of the dairy cow MG, and our new findings of epithelial-like myofibroblast cells and their differentiation trajectories into luminal cells may provide novel insights into the development and lactogenesis in dairy cattle MGs.
Modeling and Validation of Diamagnetic Rotor Levitated by Permanent Magnetics
Authors: Xu Yuanping , Zhang Yue , Zhou Jin , Jin Chaowu
Published: November 2020

Featured as an innovative powerless and low stiffness suspension approach, diamagnetic levitation technique has trigged intensive interest because of its potential applicability in miniaturized mechanical system. The foundation of diamagnetic levitation system lies in mathematical modeling, which is essential for operating performance optimization and stability predication. However, to date, few literatures concerning the systematic mathematical modeling has been reported. Herein, in this work, a systematic mathematic model for disc-shaped diamagnetically levitated rotor on permanent magnets array is proposed. Based on the proposed model, the magnetic field distribution characteristics, diamagnetic levitation force characteristics (i.e. levitation height and stiffness) expressions and the optimized theorical conditions for realizing stable levitation are achieved. Experiments are also performed to dig out the relationship between levitation height and levitation force. Moreover, the operating stability of rotor under different conditions is evaluated. The experimental results are well in accordance with the theorical predications, confirming the feasibility of this mathematic model.
A Case Report and Literature Review of a Death Caused by Aeromonas daca Complicated with Septic Shock
Authors: Zhao Qiquan , Han Xiaoli
Published: November 2020

Background: For decades, Aeromonas daca has often been mistaken for Aeromonas hydrophila by phenotypic identification systems and shows obvious characteristics of virulence. The clinical data of patients with A. daca reported in China and elsewhere in the past 5 years were retrospectively analyzed to improve clinicians' understanding of the disease. Methods: The diagnosis and treatment of a patient who died of diffuse alveolar hemorrhage caused by A. daca in our hospital were reported. The CNKI, Wanfang and VIP databases were searched with "Aeromonas daca" as the keyword, and the PubMed database was searched with "Aeromonas dhakensis" as the keyword; these searchers covered publications from the last 5 years. The data reported in the literature from China and elsewhere were analyzed retrospectively. Results: The patient, a 26-year-old male with no underlying disease, was admitted to our hospital for 3 days because of cough, expectoration and shortness of breath. According to blood and lavage fluid cultures and next-generation sequencing (NGS), the patient was diagnosed with an A. daca infection. He soon deteriorated to a critical condition complicated with septic shock and died after active rescue treatment. A total of three relatively complete English-language studies were retrieved, yielding data on 3 patients in total. Conclusion: A. daca infection is lethal, and an accurate taxonomy can improve our understanding of the epidemiological distribution and virulence potential of this human pathogen. Third-generation cephalosporins and carbapenems should be used cautiously in the treatment of severe A. daca infection, and the best regimen is cefepime or fluoroquinolones.
10×Genomics Single-cell Sequencing Reveals Differential Cell Types in Skin Tissues of Liaoning Cashmere Goats and Key Genes Related Potentially to the Fineness of Cashmere Fiber
Authors: Zheng Yuanyuan , Wang Yanru , Hui Taiyu , Xu Yanan , Zhang Yu , Wang Zeying , Tian He , Wang Wei , Cong Yuyan , Guo Suping , Wu Rina , Dou Xingtang , Zhang Xinghui , Zhu Yanxu , Guo Dan , Yue Chang , Bai Zhixian , Sun Jiaming , Cai Weidong , Zhang Xinjiang , Gu Ming , Qin Yuting , Bai Man , Fan Yixing , Bai Wenlin
Published: November 2020

Cashmere fineness is one of the important factors determining cashmere quality, however, our understanding about the cells that make up the cashmere fineness is limited. Here, we used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and computational models to identify 13 skin cell types in Liaoning Cashmere Goats. We also analyzed the molecular changes by Pseudo-Timeline Analysis in the development process and revealed the maturation process in gene expression profile in Liaoning Cashmere Goats. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) explored hub genes in cell clusters related to cashmere formation. Secondary hair follicle dermal papilla cells (SDPCs) play an important role in the growth and density of cashmere. ACTA2, a marker gene of SDPCs, was selected for immunofluorescence (IF) and western blot (WB) verification. It was proved that it was mainly expressed in SDPCs, and WB results showed different expression levels. COL1A1 is a high expression gene in SDPCs, which was verified by IF and WB. Then select the function gene CXCL8 of SDPCs to verify, and prove the differential expression in the coarse type and the fine type of Liaoning Cashmere Goats. Therefore, COL1A1 may involve in regulated skin development and CXCL8 gene may regulate cashmere fineness. These genes may be involved in regulating the fineness of cashmere in goat secondary hair follicle dermal papilla cells, our research will provide new insights into the mechanism of cashmere growth and cashmere fineness regulation by cells.
Preventive Procedure for Stenosis After Esophagojejunostomy Using A Circular Stapler and Transorally Inserted Anvil (OrVilTM) Following Laparoscopic Proximal Gastrectomy and Total Gastrectomy Involving Reduction of Anastomotic Tension
Authors: Nomura Eiji , Kayano Hajime , Seki Takatoshi , Abe Rin , Yoshii Hisamichi , Uda Shuji , Kazuno Akihito , Izumi Hideki , Yamamoto Soichiro , Mukai Masaya , Makuuchi Hiroyasu
Published: November 2020

Background: Recently, due to increasing reports of stenosis after esophagojejunostomy created using circular staplers and a transorally inserted anvil (OrVilTM) following laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) and total gastrectomy (LTG), linear staplers are being used instead. We investigated our preventive procedure for esophagojejunostomy stenosis performed using circular staplers.Methods Since the anastomotic stenosis is considered to be mainly caused by tension in the esophageal and jejunal stumps at the anastomotic site, we have been performing procedures to relieve this tension, by cutting off the rubber band and pushing the shaft of the circular stapler toward the esophageal side, since July 2015. We retrospectively compared the incidence of anastomotic stenosis in cases of LPG and LTG performed before July 2015 (early phase, 30 cases) versus those performed after this period (later phase, 22 cases).Results Comparison of the incidence of anastomotic stenosis according to the type of surgery, LPG or LTG, and between the two time periods versus all cases, indicated a significantly lower incidence in the later phase than in the early phase (4.5% vs. 26.7%, p<0.05), especially for LPG (0% vs. 38.5%, p<0.05).Conclusions It is possible to use a circular stapler during laparoscopic esophagojejunostomy, as with open surgery, if steps to reduce tension on the anastomotic site are undertaken. These procedures will contribute to the spread of safe and simple laparoscopic anastomotic techniques.
Childhood ischaemic stroke in the basal ganglia can lead to fine motor and anxiety disorders: a retrospective analysis and follow-up of 109 cases
Authors: Li Tianyi , Ma Jiannan , Hong Siqi , Luo Yuanyuan , Li Xiujuan , Li Tingsong , Jiang Li
Published: November 2020

Backgroud:Stroke in children easily causes long-term dysfunction. Whether the prognoses of motor and anxiety disorders are related to the affected stroke area has not been reported. Methods: 109 cases of children with ischaemic stroke were reviewed and divided into three groups: lenticular nucleus lesions only (lenticular nucleus group), lenticular nucleus and caudate head lesions (caudate head group), and lenticular nucleus and thalamus lesions (thalamus group). Overall prognosis was evaluated by the mRS score. The SCAS-P was used to evaluate anxiety in children aged ≥6 years. Results: mRS scores were ≤2 points (mean: 0.62), no significant difference among groups. 3/21 (14.2%) patients in the caudate head group changed handedness, which is significantly higher than other groups. Patients with lesions in thalamus group had significantly higher SCAS-P scores. Conclusions: The overall prognosis of children with basal ganglia ischaemic stroke is good. However, hand preference changes and anxiety disorders may develop. Patients in the caudate head groups are more likely to suffer from fine motor disorders and changes in handedness. Patients within the thalamus group are more prone to anxiety than patients in the other groups. Anxiety disorders should be noted in children with basal ganglia stroke.
A New Inflammatory Parameter Can Predict Delayed Intracranial Hemorrhage Following Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt
Authors: Li Shiwei , Wang Hongcai , Li Feng , Chen Maosong , Chen Pandi
Published: November 2020

Background: Delayed intracerebral hemorrhage (DICH) secondary to ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is considered to be a potentially severe event, however, little is known about the risk factors and underlying mechanisms. This study aimed to investigate the association between NLRR (a ratio of postoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio to preoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio) and DICH secondary to VP shunt.Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent VP shunt between January 2016 and June 2020. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association of DICH and NLRR. Then patients were divided into two groups according to the optimal cut-off point of NLRR, propensity score matching (PSM) method was performed to reconfirm the result.Results: A total of 130 patients were enrolled and DICH occurred in 29 patients. Elevated NLRR (odds ratio [OR], 2.774; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.372-5.609; P<0.001) and history of craniotomy (OR, 3.505; 95%CI, 1.040-11.813; p=0.043) were independent risk factors for DICH secondary to VP shunt. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of NLRR showed that area under the curve was 0.832. The optimal cut off point of NLRR was 2.05, and the sensitivity was 89.7%, the specificity was 63.4%. Patients with NLRR>2.05 had much higher incidence of DICH (OR, 11.25; 95%CI, 1.35-93.50; p=0.025; PSM cohort, n=82). Conclusions: Our finding suggested that DICH following VP shunt was not a rare complication and elevated NLRR could independently predict DICH. Inflammatory responses might play an important role in the development of DICH following VP shunt.
Clinical and Imaging Analysis to Evaluate the Response of Patients With Anti-DPPX Encephalitis To Immunotherapy
Authors: Xiao Jun , Fu Pei-cai , Li Zhi-jun
Published: November 2020

Background: To report the main spectrum, new clinical and imaging characteristics of dipeptidyl-peptidase-like protein 6 (DPPX) antibody-associated encephalitis, and evaluate the effect of immunotherapy.Methods: A retrospective analysis of nine patients reported describing the clinical and immunological features was performed, and all previously reported cases were reviewed. A cell-based indirect immunofluorescence assay with human embryonic kidney 293 cells transfected with DPPX was used. Results: Nine patients were identified (median age, 51 years; range, 14–65 years) with prodromal fever, diarrhea, or weight loss, followed by a rapidly progressive encephalopathy characterized by cognitive disorder. One patient who received methylprednisolone therapy and a trail of tacrolimus showed substantial improvement and had no relapse in the six-month follow-up. Our comprehensive literature review demonstrated that a total of 53 cases were reported, of which more than half had prodromal weight loss (52.8%), and gastrointestinal disorders (58.5%). Cognitive (74.6%) and brainstem/spinal cord disorders (75.5%) were the most common major symptoms. Our study is the first to report three patients with anti-DPPX encephalitis who had sleep disorder of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD), limb paralysis (two), severe pleocytosis and elevated protein levels (two) in the cerebrospinal fluid, and increased T2/FLAIR signal abnormalities in the bilateral hippocampus, temporal lobe, amygdala, basal ganglia, thalamus, centrum semiovale, and frontal and parietal lobes in seven cases (77.8%).Conclusion: Our study expanded the clinical and imaging phenotype of anti-DPPX- encephalitis. We also reported the use of tacrolimus for long-term immunosuppressant therapy in anti-DPPX encephalitis, with substantial improvement and no relapse during a follow-up period of 6 months. Further studies elucidating the entire clinical spectrum of anti-DPPX encephalitis, pathogenic roles, and prognosis under long-term immunosuppressive therapy are warranted.
Effects of Stress Hyperglycemia Ratio on 1-Year Clinical Outcome after Thrombolytic Therapy for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Yang Dehao , Yang Dehao , Ren Junli , Ren Junli , Huang Honghao , Huang Honghao , Yang Naiping , Yang Naiping , Yang Chenguang , Yang Chenguang , Gao Beibei , Gao Beibei , Hu Jingyu , Hu Jingyu , Pan Wenjing , Pan Wenjing , Sun Fangyue , Sun Fangyue , Zhou Xinbo , Zhou Xinbo , Zeng Tian , Zeng Tian , Chen Guangyong , Chen Guangyong
Published: November 2020

BackgroundStress hyperglycemia manifests as transient hyperglycemia in the context of illness with or without known diabetes, which may cause poor clinical outcome in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients. The present study intended to evaluate the association between stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) and 1-year clinical outcome after treatment with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (r-tPA) for AIS patients and compare the predictive effect of fasting glucose concentration, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and SHR. MethodsData from 205 AIS patients following thrombolytic therapy with r-tPA in the Third Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from Apr. 2016 to Apr. 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. We grouped AIS patients according to SHR tertiles to contrast the 1-year clinical outcome. Multivariate regression analysis was carried to further analyze the association between SHR and AIS prognosis. Moreover, the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis was used for the purpose of comparing the prognostic effects of fasting glucose concentration, HbA1c and SHR on AIS patients. ResultsSHR was an independent predictor for 1-year poor outcome (OR 1.447; 95% CI, 1.124-1.864, p = 0.004) but not the mortality of AIS patients. Restricted cubic spline regression showed a linear relationship between SHR and the odds of poor outcome. Furthermore, SHR is a fair predictor to predict 1-year poor outcome. The cut-off value of SHR levels was 0.79 with 71.0% sensitivity and 72.0 % specificity. ConclusionsThe increased SHR was strongly associated with 1-year poor outcome following thrombolytic therapy with r-tPA. Meanwhile, SHR had higher predictive value for prognosis of AIS patients than fasting glucose concentration and HbA1c. Trial registration﻿Retrospectively registered
Proximal Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism in COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Short Tittle: Venous Thromboembolism in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Longchamp Gregoire , Manzocchi-Besson Sara , Longchamp Alban , Righini Marc , Robert-Ebadi Helia , Blondon Marc
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUNGCOVID-19 appears to be associated with a high risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). We aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze the risk of clinically relevant VTE in patients hospitalized for COVID-19. METHODSThis meta-analysis included original articles in English published from 01/01/2020 to 06/15/2020 in Pubmed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of science, and Cochrane. Outcomes were major VTE, defined as any objectively diagnosed pulmonary embolism (PE) and/or proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Primary analysis estimated the risk of VTE, stratified by acutely and critically ill inpatients. Secondary analyses explored the separate risk of proximal DVT and of PE; the risk of major VTE stratified by screening and by type of anticoagulation. RESULTSIn 33 studies (n=4’009 inpatients) with heterogeneous thrombotic risk factors, VTE incidence was 9% (95%CI 5-13%, I2=92.5) overall, and 21% (95%CI 14-28%, I2=87.6%) for patients hospitalized in the ICU. Proximal lower limb DVT incidence was 3% (95%CI 1-5%, I2= 87.0%) and 8% (95%CI 3-14%, I2=87.6%), respectively. PE incidence was 8% (95%CI 4-13%, I2=92.1%) and 17% (95%CI 11-25%, I2=89.3%), respectively. Screening and absence of anticoagulation were associated with a higher VTE incidence. When restricting to medically ill inpatients, the VTE incidence was 2% (95%CI 0-6%).CONCLUSIONSThe risk of major VTE among COVID-19 inpatients is high but varies greatly with severity of the disease. These findings reinforce the need for the use of thromboprophylaxis in all COVID-19 inpatients and for clinical trials testing different thromboprophylaxis regimens in subgroups of COVID-19 inpatients. TRIAL REGISTRATIONThe review protocol was registered in PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42020193369).
Maternal Aromatase Inhibition Effects on RFamide-Related Peptide-3 and Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone in Adult Murine Offspring With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Shaaban Zahra , Tamadon Amin , Shirazi Mohammad Reza Jafarzadeh , Zamiri Mohammad Javad , Derakhshanfar Amin
Published: November 2020

Background: Despite the prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) among childbearing women and the development of many animal models for this syndrome, information on its etiology is still scarce. Intrauterine hyperandrogenic environment may underlie changes at the levels of hypothalamus, pituitary and ovary organization in female offspring, and PCOS later in life. Letrozole, has been shown to mimic reproductive and metabolic characteristics of PCOS in adult rodent models. Therefore, the aim of this research was to assess the condition in a prenatal letrozole-treated rat model. Methods: Twenty-eight female rats from dams receiving letrozole at certain doses during late pregnancy were used in the trial. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats (n=21) received letrozole treatment on days 16-18 gestation at doses 1.25, 1.0, 0.75, 0.5, and 0.25 mg/kg body weight (BW).Results: Prenatal letrozole-treatment delayed parturition time and reduced the litter size in pregnant dams (P<0.0001). Late puberty onset, irregular ovarian cyclicity, increased anogenital distance (AGD), body weight gain, and serum testosterone concentration and reduced estradiol levels (P<0.0001) were observed in the female offspring of dams receiving 1.25 and 1 mg/kg BW letrozole. Furthermore, Letrozole at 1.25 and 1 mg/kg BW showed increased Rfrp and decreased Gnrh mRNA expression (P<0.0001). Conclusions: Letrozole treatment at doses 1 mg/kg BW and lower was not feto-toxic. It was concluded that 1 mg/kg BW letrozole may be suggested for prenatal PCOS induction.
WITHDRAWN: Enterococcus Faecium is a Risk Factor for The Outbreak of Anxiety and Depression in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Jang Hyo-Min , Kim Jeon-Kyung , Joo Min-Kyung , Shin Yun-Jung , Lee Kyung-Eon , Yoo Joong-Wook , Lee Chang-Kyun , Kim Hyo-Jong , Kim Dong-Hyun
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThe gut microbiota closely communicate with the brain through the microbiota-gut-brain axis. The interaction between gut microbiota may regulate the occurrence of neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression. Therefore, we transplanted the fecal microbiota of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or their overpopulated gut bacteria into specific-pathogen-free or germ-free mice and examined their effects regarding the occurrence of colitis and anxiety/depression. ResultsFecal microbiota transplantations (FMTs) from patients with IBD with (/D+) or without depression (/D-) caused IBD-like colitis in the transplanted mice: they increased myeloperoxidase activity and NF-κB+/CD11c+ cell population in the colon. FMTs from patients with IBD/D+ caused anxiety-/depression-like behaviors and NF-κB+/Iba1+ and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)+/Iba1+ cell population and decreased the BDNF+/NeuN+ cell population in the hippocampus. FMTs from patients with IBD/D- caused anxiety-like, but not depression-like, behaviors. α-/β-diversities and composition of microbiota in the feces of patients with IBD (IBD-F) were different from those of healthy-control feces (HC-F). The Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcaceae populations and fecal lipopolysaccharide levels were higher in IBD-F vs. HC-F. Moreover, the Enterococcaceae population was higher in IBD/D+-F vs. IBD/D--F, while the Bifidobacteria population was lower in IBD/D+-F. FMT from HC alleviated the IBD/D+-F-induced anxiety-/depression-like behaviors and colitis in the transplanted mice. Furthermore, it suppressed IBD/D+-F-induced Enterococcus sp. population in the feces. Enterobacteriaceae Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Cronobacter sakazakii abundant in IBD-F, singly or together, caused depression with colitis in germ-free and specific-pathogen-free mice, while Enterococcus faecium abundant in IBD/D+-F did not cause not anxiety/depression and colitis. However, the combination of Enterobacteriaceae with Enterococcus faecium synergistically deteriorated depression and colitis, while its combination with Bifidobacterium longum attenuated them. ConclusionThe interaction between gut microbiota Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococci, and Bifidobacteria may regulate the outbreak of anxiety/depression and IBD through the modulation of NF-κB-involved BDNF expression and gut microbiota. Enterococcus faecium, a probiotic strain, is a risk factor for the outbreak of anxiety/depression in patients with IBD.
The Large-Scale Spatial Patterns of Ecological Networks Between Phytoplankton and Zooplankton in Coastal Marine Ecosystems
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Li Hongjun , Shen Wenli , Du Xiongfeng , Li Shuzhen , Wei Ziyan , Feng Kai , Deng Ye
Published: November 2020

BackgroundThe marine autotrophic phytoplankton is responsible for approximately half of global primary production on Earth, and as the planktonic consumers, the heterotrophic zooplankton could link the phytoplankton and higher trophic level to complete the aquatic Food Web. Despite the interaction between phytoplankton and zooplankton has played important roles in speciation and ecosystem function, little is known about the spatial patterns of their interactions at the continental scale.ResultsHere, we collected 251 seawater samples along 13,000 km of Chinese coastline, and microscopically investigated the spatial gradient patterns of phytoplanktonic and zooplanktonic diversities. In total, 307 phytoplanktonic and 311 zooplanktonic species were visually identified. The distance-decay relationships showed higher turnover rates for zooplankton than phytoplankton, indicating zooplankton had more divergent compositions across larger distances. Furthermore, the zooplankton-phytoplankton interaction networks demonstrated more complex and numerous connections along the southern coast than in the north, suggesting the interactions between these two major planktonic groups had a geographic spatial pattern. The types of planktonic interactions changed along the latitudinal gradient, with positive interactions dominant in northern and middle regions, while the percentage of positive and negative interactions were approximately equal in the southern latitudinal region. Additionally, some particular association between zooplanktonic and phytoplanktonic groups were found to be localized in specific regions, such as autotrophic C. lorenzianus was only associated with heterotrophic Copepoda in northern region, and C. oculus-iridis was only associated with Copepoda and Chaetognatha in the middle (ECS) and southern (SCS) respectively.ConclusionsWe demonstrate here that not only the planktonic biodiversity and community structure exhibited a clear spatial pattern, but also the interaction between phytoplankton and zooplankton also changed with spatial variation. Our results provide a valuable ecological perspective to the biogeography patterns of coastal plankton along the large-scale spatial gradients, and have important implications for understanding how complex planktonic species interactions changed with location variation.