bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of Sector Modeling Approach in a Giant Petroleum Field
Authors: Pires Luis , Botechia Vinicius , Schiozer Denis
Published: June 2020

The decision analysis process to develop a petroleum field can be very complex. This process contemplates a set of tasks, which include the study of various representative scenarios, and different production strategies that aid decision-making. However, when it comes to giant reservoirs, the computational requirements of the respective simulation models may be too high. High computational cost may demand simplification that may yield suboptimal solutions so it is desirable to find simplifications that preserve the quality of the solutions. One approach to reduce the simulation requirements is to divide the reservoir into sectors, and to use sector models isolated in the decision making process. This study evaluates the feasibility of using a model of an isolated sector from a giant reservoir in the management of this sector. The observed decrease in the simulation time of the isolated model makes this methodology attractive. However, it is necessary to evaluate in advance the impacts of its use on the flow behavior of this sector when inserted in the Full Field model. The case study presented is a deterministic realization of a reservoir with analogous characteristics to the Mero pre-salt field, with high communication along the reservoir. The global differences found between the isolated model and the Full Field model presented a range that justifies the use of the isolated model in the development process of this sector, without losing significant accuracy in the results. A methodology is proposed to evaluate the differences between both models using field and well indicators. Discussions about the impact of local differences between the two models are presented. The causes of these differences were investigated and attributed to three main factors: the production strategy; changing of boundary conditions; and rock properties of the model.
Impact of Mechanical Entrapment on the Design of Mobility Control in Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Meulenbroek Bernard , Farajzadeh Rouhi , Bruining Hans
Published: June 2020

The efficiency of polymer enhanced oil recovery largely depends on the propagation of the injected polymer solution, which is mainly influenced by adsorption and mechanical entrapment of polymer. An efficient polymer displacement process is usually designed to maintain a stable front. The impact of mechanical entrapment on the front stability has as yet not been fully investigated. A quantitative evaluation requires accurate solutions of the relevant two-phase flow equations considering adsorption and a history-dependent entrapment function.

The model equations for single phase flow need to solved first and can be used to obtain a few model parameters by comparison to available experimental data. These equations are solved analytically, which yields 1-D concentration and saturation profiles considering both adsorption and entrapment. In addition the pressure history of the displacement process is obtained. The ensuing polymer concentrations with and without entrapment are then considered for the design of the mobility control for a polymer EOR process.

We find that by inclusion of mechanical entrapment, the polymer concentration reduces from the injection point towards the displacement front. The severity of the concentration loss at the front is indicated by the history of the previously entrapped polymer molecules.

Conditions can be chosen to sufficiently reduce the mobility ratio between the polymer and the oil and can show under which conditions the oil can be displaced in a stable manner.
Experimental Investigation of the Extent of the Impact of Halite Precipitation on CO2 Injection in Deep Saline Aquifers
Authors: Edem Donatus , Abba Muhammad , Nourian Amir , Babaie Meisam , Naeem Zainab
Published: June 2020

A laboratory investigation was carried out to experimentally determine the extent of the salt precipitation effects on the petrophysical properties of deep saline aquifer during CO2 storage. This was performed on selected core samples using laboratory core flooding process. The petrophysical properties (Porosity, Permeability) of the core sample were measured before core flooding using Helium Porosimetry and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to determine the morphology of the core samples. The core samples were saturated with brines of different salinities (5, 15, 25, wt% NaCl) and core flooding process was conducted at a simulated reservoir pressure of 1,000 psig, temperature of 45°C, with varying injection rates of 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0 ml/min respectively. The obtained results indicated that the porosity and permeability decreased drastically as salinities increases, noticeably because the higher concentration of brine resulted in higher amounts of salt precipitation. Porosity reduction ranged between 0.75% to 6% with increasing brine salinity while permeability impairment ranged from 10% to 70% of the original permeability. The SEM images of the core samples after the flooding showed that salt precipitation not only plugged the pore spaces of the core matrix but also showed significant precipitation around the rock grains thereby showing an aggregation of the salts. This clearly proved that the reduction in the capacity of the rock is associated with salt precipitation in the pore spaces as well as the pore throats. Higher injection rates induced higher salt precipitation which caused reduction in porosity and permeability. This is attributed to the fact that; the higher injection of CO2 vaporizes the formation brine more significantly and thereby increasing brine concentration by removing the water content and enhancing precipitation of salt. These findings provide meaningful understanding and evaluation of the extent of salt precipitation on CO2 injectivity in saline reservoirs. The insight gained could be useful in simulation models to design better injectivity scenarios and mitigation techniques
Recognize the Spatial Extent and Properties of the Hydraulic Fracture Network with Multiple Data
Authors: Dai Cheng , Chang Haibin , Fang Sidong
Published: June 2020

Multistage hydraulic fractured horizontal wells (MHFHWs) are widely used in most shale gas reservoirs around the world. Hydraulic fracturing treatment can create hydraulic fractures and activate existing natural fractures to generate a complex fracture network to significantly improve the well performance. For precise production prediction, it is critical to recongnize the spatial extent and properties of the hydraulic fracture network with multiple data such as production history, microseismic et al.

In this study, a novel method that combines the automatical history matching technology and embedded discrete fracture modeling (EDFM) is proposed for the recongnizing the spatial extent and properties of fracture network for MHFHWs. For each hydraulic fracturing stage, the fracture network is parameterized by a set of uncertain parameters, including the length of major fracture, width of the stimulated area, fracture density, fracture permeability, etc. Using these parameters, realizations of the fracture network are generated. The production predictions are obtained by running reservoir simulations with EDFM in which all fractures are embedded into a background grid system, and the automatical history matching method is applied to perform history matching. The proposed approach is validated using synthetic single- well and double-well cases. The results show that the spatial extent and properties of the hydraulic fracture network can be well recognized and that the production history can be well matched.

Considering that microseismic surveillance is often currently performed in shale gas reservoirs, the prior constraint of microseismic data is also investigated in this work. When microseismic data are available, an area with effective microseismic events for each fracturing stage is first defined. The events within the effective area are used to generate discrete fractures, and the events outside of the effective area are abandoned. Furthermore, the shape parameters of the area with effective microseismic events (wet events) are gradually modified by assimilating the production data. A real field case with microseismic data in the Sichuan Basin of China is investigated to test the performance of the proposed method. Reasonable results are obtained, thus demonstrating the robustness of the proposed approach.
Extended Limit Tests for Improved Management and Initial Dynamic Reservoir Characterization
Authors: Alcantara Ricardo , Mendez Rafael , Ruiz Alan , Samaniego Fernando , Briones Mario , Alcantara Juan Ricardo
Published: June 2020

The objective of this work is to analyze the pressure transient behavior in long or extended testing times to detect reservoir limits and to guarantee an optimal reservoir dynamic characterization that allows to understand, the real behavior of the producing formation since the beginning of its productive life, as well as ensuring timely decision-making.

For this analysis, we considered some Extended Limit Tests (ELT) in exploratory or wildcat wells and currently producing wells in developed fields, from which we found the main well productivity associated parameters, an approximation of the optimum number of wells, drainage radii, estimated reserves to recover and the detection of reservoir limits and heterogeneities. The responses obtained were compared then, the associated problems and the causes that originated them from the design, execution and finally, during the interpretation of the Pressure Transient Analysis (PTA) were identified. Additionally, the present paper also attempts to propose a practical approximation for well drainage and investigation radii considering the nature of fractures in carbonates.

The importance of this work lies in improving the initial characterization of reservoirs through the analysis of Extended Limit Tests (ELT) for reaching a greater radius of investigation; correspondingly, it is intended to implement an appropriate exploitation scheme (fit for purpose) for each field according to their characteristics and behavior shown for a good reservoir management and Optimal Number of Wells (ONW) to increase the recovery factor, risk mitigation and future investments assurance.
Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of the Flodén ATODAI instrument in the North American context
Authors: Flodén Anne , Stadtler Maria , Collazo Stephanie E Jones , Mone Tom , Ash Rick , Fridlund Bengt
Published: June 2020

Background: Intensive and critical-care nurses are the key to successful donor management in the critical-care setting. No studies measuring attitudes toward organ donor advocacy existed before 2011, when the 51-item Swedish “Attitudes Toward Organ Donor Advocacy Scale” was developed. The aim of this study was to translate, adapt and establish the psychometric properties of the North American version of the Flodén ATODAI (Attitudes Toward Organ Donor Advocacy Instrument) in terms of validity and reliability. Methods: A multi-step approach was used: Initial translation; Back-translation; Review and synthesis of these translations; Expert panel (N=7) rated the prefinal version of the instrument for content validity index (CVI); International panel made adjustments guided by the expert panel. Reliability testing with test and retest of the adjusted 46-item version was conducted using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), weighted kappa (ҡ Weight), sign test, and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (α), (N=50); and finally Delphi technique procedure with a preselected Delphi panel (N=15).Results: The CVI was determined to be greater than the 0.05 significance level. Item level (I-CVI) ranged 0.82-1.0, with a mean of 0.97. Scale level (S-CVI) on the entire instrument was 0.97. Test-retest procedure was performed to estimate stability. In total, 34 of the items had good-to-high ICC. Accepting an ICC of >0.70 resulted in a total of 24 items. Homogeneity reliability was estimated by α and was calculated for these items where α=0.90. In total, 20 of the items had a substantial or almost perfect ҡ Weight and 23 showed a moderate ҡ Weight. None of the items showed systematical differences. The Delphi technique procedure was used on the 22 items with ICC <0.70 resulted in adjustments establishing that consensus was achieved.Conclusions: Undertaking this multi-step, cross-cultural adaptation procedure has effectively ensured that the 46-item Flodén ATODAI [North American version] produces valid and reliable measurements.
Contemporary public image of the nursing profession in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Elmorshedy Hala , AlAmrani Abrar , Hassan Mona Hassan Ahmed , Fayed Amel Ahmed , Albrecht Susan Ann
Published: June 2020

Background: In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the nursing profession faces significant challenges including failure to recruit high school students into nursing education; poor nursing identity, and lack of awareness about the nursing profession. The level of community awareness and public image of the nursing profession are critical to recruit and retain students into nursing education, and to improve nurses' sense of identity. Aim: to explore the level of community awareness and public image of the nursing profession in Saudi ArabiaMethods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with a convenient sample of 502 adults including106 males and 396 females, their mean age was 22.93 ± 6.76 years. Data collected included; socio-cultural data, gender preference in getting nursing care, awareness, and perceived socio-cultural barriers to pursue a nursing career. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0. Results: Only 32.5 % preferred to get nursing care by Saudis. The nursing profession was not viewed as a respected job as 71.5% of participants would be ashamed of having a nurse in their families. The study revealed a low median knowledge score (50.0, IQR: 50.0-66.7)). The study highlighted a number of socio-cultural barriers to pursue a nursing career including; the gender-mixed working environment (35.9%), delayed marriage of female nurses (20.3%), and the negative effect of nursing profession on social life (64.5%).Conclusions: Half of the sample had a knowledge score below 50.0 out of 100. This level of Poor awareness, in addition to socio-cultural perceived barriers are the main factors contributing to the negative public image of the nursing profession in Saudi Arabia. Understanding these factors could contribute to implementing focused intervention to improve the negative stereotype of the nursing profession among Saudis.
Intermittent Kangaroo Mother Care and the Practice of Breastfeeding Late Preterm Infants: Results from Four Hospitals in Different Provinces of China
Authors: Zhang Bo , Duan Zhiying , Zhao Yingxi , Williams Sarah , Wall Stephen , Huang Limin , Zhang Xiaoqin , Wu Wenli , Yue Jieya , Zhang Lin , Liu Jun , Zhao Gengli
Published: June 2020

Background China has an extremely low exclusive breastfeeding rate. Kangaroo mother care (KMC) has been shown to increase the exclusive breastfeeding rate among infants born extremely or very preterm. However, there is limited evidence surrounding intermittent KMC and exclusive breastfeeding in late preterm infants. In our study we investigated the association between the provision of intermittent KMC and breastfeeding practice for late preterm infants in four hospitals in different provinces of China. Methods Intermittent KMC was recommended to the mothers of all preterm infants admitted to the postnatal wards of participating hospitals between March 2018 and March 2019. Those who agreed to practice KMC were enrolled in the “KMC group”, those who did not were enrolled in the “No KMC group”. Basic maternal socio-demographic information was collected, feeding practice; outcome and method, were recorded daily whilst in hospital. A follow-up survey of feeding practice was conducted 42 days after discharge. Calculations for feeding practice were performed separately for both groups. Logistics regression was used to analyze the association between KMC and feeding outcome and method, adjusting for socio-demographic covariates. Results Among the 844 mothers participating in the study, 627 (74.3%) chose to perform KMC. More of the mothers who provided KMC were exclusively breast milk feeding their infants in the 24 hours before hospital discharge (54.6%) and at follow-up (57.3%), compared to mothers who did not provide KMC (34.6% at discharge and 33.2% at follow-up,). Mothers in the KMC group were more likely to be breastfeeding (method) than mothers in the No KMC group (65.3% vs. 52.1% at discharge, and 83.1% vs. 67.3% at follow up). Logistic regression indicated that compared with the No KMC group, mothers who provided KMC were twice as likely to be exclusively breast milk feeding their infants at discharge (OR=2.15 (95% CI 1.53, 3.02)), use breastfeeding method at discharge as opposed to other means such as bottle or cup feeding (OR=1.61 (95% CI 1.15, 2.25)), be exclusive breast milk feeding at follow-up (OR=2.55 (95% CI 1.81, 3.61)), and use breastfeeding method at follow-up (OR=2.09 (95% CI 1.44, 3.02)). Conclusions Intermittent KMC was associated with a nearly doubled increase in exclusive breast milk feeding (outcome) and breastfeeding (method) at both discharge and 42 days after discharge for late preterm infants. This is especially important in China where exclusive breastfeeding rates are low, intermittent KMC provides a feasible means to increase the likelihood of these vulnerable infants receiving the benefits of exclusive breastmilk.
Antibacterial effect of silver nanorings
Authors: González-Fernández Sara , Lozano-Iturbe Víctor , García Beatriz , Andrés Luis J. , Menéndez Mª Fe , Rodríguez David , Vazquez Fernando , Martín Carla , Quiros Luis M
Published: June 2020

Background: The emergence and expansion of antibiotic resistance makes it necessary to have alternative anti-infective agents, among which silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) display especially interesting properties. AgNPs carry out their antibacterial action through various molecular mechanisms, and the magnitude of the observed effect is dependent on multiple, not fully understood, aspects, particle shape being one of the most important. In this article, we conduct a study of the antibacterial effect of a recently described type of AgNP: silver nanorings (AgNRs), making comparisons with other alternative types of AgNP synthesized in parallel using the same methodology.Results: When they act on planktonic forms, AgNRs produce a smaller effect on the viability of different bacteria than nanoparticles with other structures although their effect on growth is more intense over a longer period. When their action on biofilms is analyzed, AgNRs show a greater concentration-dependent effect. In both cases it was observed that the effect on inhibition depends on the microbial species, but not its Gram positive or negative nature. Growth patterns in silver-resistant Salmonella strains suggest that AgNRs work through different mechanisms to other AgNPs. The antibacterial effect is also produced to some extent by the conditioning of culture media or water by contact with AgNPs but, at least over short periods of time, this is not due to the release of Ag ions.Conclusions: AgNRs constitute a new type of AgNP, whose antibacterial properties depend on their shape, and is capable of acting efficiently on both planktonic bacteria and biofilms.
Higher toenail selenium is associated with increased insulin resistance risk in omnivores, but not in vegetarians
Authors: Gu Qiuyun , Cui Xueying , Du Kun , Wang Bian , Cai Wei , Tang Qingya , Shen Xiuhua
Published: June 2020

Background The relationship between selenium (Se) and insulin resistance remains unclear. We aim to explore the association between toenail Se levels and insulin resistance through a cross-sectional study comprising Chinese vegetarians and matched omnivores. Methods In this study, we enrolled 220 vegetarians and 220 omnivores matched by age and sex from Shanghai. The inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method was used to measure toenail Se levels. Dietary Se intakes were assessed by the 24-hour dietary recall method. Blood samples were collected to measure fasting blood glucose level and fasting insulin concentrations. Insulin resistance index（HOMA-IR）and insulin secretion index（HOMA-B）were calculated to evaluate insulin resistance. Multi-linear regression analysis was performed to determine the association between toenail Se levels and insulin resistance, after adjusting for confounders. Results The mean ages of vegetarians (76 vegans, 144 lacto-ovo-vegetarians) and omnivores were 35.96±8.73years and 35.23±8.93 years, respectively. Of these, 180 (81.8%) were female and 40 (18.2%) were male. No association was found between toenail Se levels and insulin resistance in vegetarians. However, the concentration of Se in toenails was positively correlated with fasting insulin levels ( β =1.030, 95% CI : 0.393 to 1.667) and HOMA-IR ( β =0.245, 95% CI : 0.098 to 0.392) in omnivores, after multivariate adjustment for age, sex, BMI, alcohol consumption, income, and daily dietary intakes (energy, protein, fat, carbohydrate, and fiber). This positive relationship persisted only in omnivores whose dietary Se intake was above 60 μg/d. Conclusions Higher toenail Se levels were associated with increased insulin resistance risk in Chinese omnivores whose dietary Se intake was above 60 μg/d, but not in vegetarians. These findings create awareness on the association of dietary Se intake above 60 μg/d with the risk of insulin resistance.
Pre-stroke adherence to a Mediterranean diet pattern is associated with lower acute ischemic stroke severity: A cross-sectional analysis of a prospective hospital-register study
Authors: Lavados Pablo M. , Mazzon Enrico , Rojo Alexis , Brunser Alejandro M. , Olavarría Verónica V.
Published: June 2020

Background: High adherence to a Mediterranean Diet is associated with reduced incidence and mortality of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) but may also be associated with severity. Our purpose was to investigate the association of adherence to a Mediterranean diet and severity in a prospective hospital register of AIS patients. Methods: We included AIS patients admitted from February 2017 to July 2019. All were assessed by a neurologist with a standard stroke protocol, including NIHSS. Adherence to Mediterranean diet was prospectively measured by the 14-point Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) and defined as low (0-6 points) or high (7-14 points). Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared by group with univariate analysis. A Generalized Linear Model (GLM) was used to investigate the association of admission NIHSS as a continuous ordinal variable and an ordinal logistic regression (OLR) analysis to determine the independent association of the NIHSS quartiles with adherence to Mediterranean diet. Results: 368 patients were included, mean age 68.3 (17.7), 158 (42.9%) females. The median NIHSS score was 3 (IQR 1-9) and the median MEDAS score was 6 (IQR 4.5-8). Patients with high MEDAS scores had significantly lower; admission NIHSS scores, sedentary lifestyle, body mass index, total and LDL cholesterol levels, but higher alcohol consumption. After adjustments, high adherence to Mediterranean diet remained independently associated with lower stroke severity both in the GLM (β coefficient = -0.19, p=0.01) and in the OLR model (OR for lower NIHSS quartiles 0.6 (95% CI 0.37-0.98, p=0.04). Conclusions: Higher pre-stroke adherence to a Mediterranean diet is independently associated with lower AIS severity.
Socioeconomic status, social capital, health risk behaviors, and health-related quality of life among Chinese older adults
Authors: Yang Ying , Wang Shizhen , Chen Lei , Luo Mi , Xue Lina , Cui Dan , Mao Zongfu
Published: June 2020

Background: There is limited knowledge on the mediating role of different health risk behaviors on the relationship between social capital, socioeconomic status (SES), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in Chinese elderly. We conducted this study to (a) investigate the condition of health risk behaviors of Chinese elderly, and (b) assess the relationship between SES, social capital, health risk behaviors, and HRQoL. Methods: We conducted this cross-sectional study between January and March 2018. Participants’ demographic characteristics, SES (education level, family income), and health risk behaviors (smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary behavior, unhealthy weight, and sleep disorder) were collected. Social capital and HRQoL were assessed by the 16-item Personal Social Capital Scale (PSCS-16) and WHOQOL-Old, respectively. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to assess the associations between variables. Results: A total of 4,868 adults aged 60 years and older were included in this study. The proportion of smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary behavior, unhealthy weight, and sleep disorder were 32.1%, 36.3%, 62.5%, 45.7%, 31.8%, and 45.5%, respectively. Significant differences were observed in education level, family income, and social capital between elderly individuals with and without each of the six health risk behavior (all p -values < 0.05). Elderly individuals who reported smoking, physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary behavior, and sleep disorder had significant lower HRQoL (all p -values < 0.05). SEM analysis showed that SES and social capital positively associated with alcohol consumption. Social capital negatively associated with smoking, physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary behavior, and sleep disorder. SES negatively associated with smoking, physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary behavior, unhealthy weight, and sleep disorder. Smoking, physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary behavior, and sleep disorder correlated with poorer HRQoL. Conclusions: Chinese older adults demonstrated a high incidence of health risk behaviors, especially for physical inactivity (62.5%) and unhealthy dietary behavior (45.7%). Social capital and SES were correlated with the elderly’s HRQoL, as well as with different health risk behaviors. Health risk behaviors played potential mediating role on the relationship of social capital, SES, and elderly health.
Anchor free object detection with mask attention
Authors: Yang HE , Fan Beibei , Guo Ling ling
Published: June 2020

The anchor-free method based on key point detection has made great progress. However, the anchor-free method is too dependent on using a convolutional network to generate a rough heat map. This is difficult to detect for objects with a large size variation and dense and overlapping objects. To solve this problem, first, we propose a mask attention mechanism for object detection methods. And make full use of the advantages of the attention mechanism to improve the accuracy of network detection heat map generation. Then, we designed an optimized fire model to reduce the size of the model. The fire model is an extension of grouped convolution. The fire model allows each group of convolutional network features to learn the same feature through purposeful grouping. In this paper, the mask attention mechanism uses object segmentation images to guide the generation of corner heat maps. Our approach achieved an accuracy of 91.84% and a recall 89.83% in the Tencent-100K dataset. Compared with the popular object detection methods, the proposed method has advantages in model size and accuracy.
The effect of treatment with a non-invasive foot worn biomechanical device on subjective and objective measures in patients with knee osteoarthritis- A retrospective analysis on a UK population
Authors: Miles Christopher , Greene Andrew
Published: June 2020

Background: Osteoarthritis is a major cause of pain and disability worldwide, therefore ways of treating this condition are paramount to a successful health system. The purpose of the study was to investigate the changes in spatial-temporal gait parameters and clinical measurements following treatment with a non-invasive foot-worn biomechanical device on patients with knee osteoarthritis within the UK. Methods: A retrospective analysis was carried out on 455 patients with knee osteoarthritis. All patients were evaluated using a computerized gait test and two self-assessment questionnaires (WOMAC and SF-36) at baseline and after 3 and 6 months of treatment. The biomechanical device is a shoe-like device with convex pods under the sole that have the capability of changing foot centre of pressure and training neuromuscular control. The device was individually calibrated for each patient to minimise symptoms whilst walking and train neuromuscular control. Patients used the device for short periods during activities of daily living. Repeated measures statistical analyses were performed to compare differences over time.Results: After 6 months of treatment significant improvements were seen in all gait parameters (p<0.01). Specifically, gait velocity, step length and single limb support of the more symptomatic knee improved by 13%, 7.8% and 3%, respectively. These were supported by significant improvements in pain, function and quality of life (48.6%, 45.7% and 22% respectively; p<0.001). A sub-group analysis revealed no baseline differences between those who were recommended joint replacement and those who were not. Both groups improved significantly over time (p<0.05 for all).Conclusions: Our results suggest that the personalised biomechanical treatment can improve gait patterns, pain, function and quality of life. It may provide an additional solution to managing UK patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis but needs to be tested in a controlled setting first.
Inhaled granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor for mild-to-moderate autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis - a six month phase II randomized study with 24 months of follow-up
Authors: Tian Xinlun , Yang Yanli , Chen Lulu , Sui Xin , Xu Wenshuai , Li Xue , Guo Xiaobei , Liu Lingshan , Situ Yusen , Wang Jun , Zhao Yang , Meng Shuzhen , Song Wei , Xiao Yonglong , Xu Kai-Feng
Published: June 2020

Background: Treatment of autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (aPAP) by inhaled granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is considered safe and effective. Evidence of benefit from GM-CSG inhalation for mild to moderate aPAP patients is limited.Methods: In this multicenter, randomized, open-labeled clinical trial, 36 aPAP patients with mild to moderate disease severity were randomized into either the GM-CSF treatment group or control group. Inhaled GM-CSF was prescribed for 6 months, and patients received follow-up for another 18 months without treatment. Physiological features of the patients were analyzed.Results: There were 36 patients (19 in the treatment group, 17 in the control group) included. There were no significant differences in the primary endpoints as measured by the change of alveolar arterial oxygen gradient (A-aDO2) from the baseline values to the values obtained during treatment or during the following 18-month non-treatment observation period [control group vs. treatment group: 0.51±12.09 mmHg vs. -0.35±13.76 mmHg, p=0.848 (3 month); 1.85±11.21 mmHg vs. 7.31±8.81 mmHg, p=0.146 (6 months); 6.05±11.14 mmHg vs. 6.61±10.64mmHg, p=0.899 (24 months)]). Percentage of diffusion capacity predicted (DLCO%) and percentage of total lung capacity predicted (TLC%), however, were significantly improved in the treatment group by the end of the study (P=0.010 and 0.027). St. George Respiratory questionnaire (SGRQ) scores were better after 6 months treatment with GM-CSF compared to the control group, and the benefits of treatment were maintained throughout the observation period. No severe side effects were observed during the study.Conclusion: Six months of inhaled GM-CSF treatment had no effect on the alveolar–arterial oxygen gradient in patients with mild to moderate pulmonary alveolar proteinosis. There were changes in some clinical or laboratory measures, but no clinically important changes were noted at the end of study. (Clinical Trial Registry: NCT02243228, Registered on September 17, 2014, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02243228?term=NCT02243228&draw=2&rank=1)
Kinesin superfamily protein 21B acts as an oncogene in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Sun Zhi-Gang , Pan Feng , Shao Jing-Bo , Yan Qian-Qian , Lu Lu , Zhang Nan
Published: June 2020

Background: Kinesin superfamily proteins (KIFs) serve as microtubule-dependent molecular motors, and are involved in the progression of many malignant tumors. In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression pattern and precise role of kinesin family member 21B (KIF21B) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: KIF21B expression in 72 cases of NSCLC tissues was measured by immunohistochemical staining (IHC). We used shRNA-KIF21B interference to silence KIF21B in NSCLC H1299 and A549 cells and normal lung epithelial bronchus BEAS-2B cells. The biological roles of KIF21B in the growth and metastasis abilities of NSCLC cells were measured by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8), colony formation and Hoechst 33342/PI, wound-healing, and Transwell assays, respectively. Expression of apoptosis-related proteins was determined using western blot. The effect of KIF21B on tumor growth in vivo was examined using nude mice model. Results: KIF21B was up-regulated in NSCLC tissues, and correlated with pathological lymph node and pTNM stage, its high expression was predicted a poor prognosis of patients with NSCLC. Silencing of KIF21B mediated by lentivirus-delivered shRNA significantly inhibited the proliferation ability of H1299 and A549 cells. KIF21B knockdown increased apoptosis in H1299 and A549 cells, down-regulated the expression of Bcl-2 and up-regulated the expression of Bax and active Caspase 3. Moreover, KIF21B knockdown decreased the level of phosphorylated form of Akt (p-Akt) and Cyclin D1 expression in H1299 and A549 cells. In addition, silencing of KIF21B impeded the migration and invasion of H1299 and A549 cells. Further, silencing of KIF 21B dramatically inhibited xenograft growth in BALB/c nude mice. However, silencing of KIF21B did not affect the proliferation, migration and invasion of BEAS-2B cells.Conclusions: These results reveal that KIF21B is up-regulated in NSCLC and acts as an oncogene in the growth and metastasis of NSCLC, which may function as a potential therapeutic target and a prognostic biomarker for NSCLC.
Non-active implantable device treating acid reflux with a new dynamic treatment approach: 1-year results
Authors: Bjelović Miloš , Harsányi László , Altorjay Áron , Kincses Zsolt , Forsell Peter
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND RefluxStop™ is an implantable, non-active, single use device to be used in the laparoscopic treatment of GERD. RefluxStop™ aims to block the movement of the LES up into the thorax and keep the angle of His in its original anatomically correct position. This new device restores normal anatomy, leaving the food passageway unaffected. METHODS In prospective, single arm, multicentric clinical investigation analyzing safety and effectiveness of the RefluxStop™ device to treat GERD, 50 subjects with chronic GERD had been included. They were operated using standardized surgical technique between December 2016 and September 2017 and followed up for one year (CE-mark investigation 6-months). Primary safety outcome was the prevalence of serious adverse events related to the device and primary effectiveness outcome reduction of GERD symptoms based on the GERD HRQL score. Secondary outcomes were the prevalence of the adverse events apart from serious, reduction of the total acid exposure time on 24-hour pH monitoring, reduction in average daily PPI dosage and subject satisfaction. RESULTS There were no serious adverse events related to the device. Average GERD-HRQL total score at 1 year improved 86% from baseline (p<0.001). 24-h pH monitoring compared to baseline showed a mean reduction percentage of overall time with pH<4 from 16.35% to 0.80% at the 6-month visit (p<0.001). At 1-year: No new cases of dysphagia were recorded, occurred in 2 subjects, both significantly reduced compared to baseline. Regular daily PPI use before surgery occurred in all 50 subjects. At the 1-year follow-up only 1 subject took regular daily PPIs due to too low placement of the device thereby prohibiting its function. None or minimal occasional episodes of regurgitation occurred in 97.8% of evaluable subjects. Gas bloating disappeared in 30 subjects and improved in 7 subjects. CONCLUSION The new principle of RefluxStop™ is safe and effective to treat GERD according to investigation results. At 1-year follow up visit, both the GERD-HRQL score and 24-h pH monitoring results indicate success for the new treatment principle. In addition, with the dynamic treatment for acid reflux, which avoids compressing the food passageway, prevalence of dysphagia and gas bloating are significantly reduced.
Biodegradable hollow mesoporous organosilica nanotheranostics (HMON) for multi-mode imaging and mild photo-therapeutic-induced mitochondrial damage on gastric cancer
Authors: Guo Weihong , Chen Zhian , Chen Jiajia , Feng Xiaoli , Yang Yang , Huang Huilin , Liang Yanrui , Shen Guodong , Liang Yu , Peng Chao , Li Yanbing , Li Guoxin , Huang Wenhua , Zhao Bingxia , Hu Yanfeng
Published: June 2020

Background: CuS-modified hollow mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles (HMON@CuS) have been preferred as non-invasive treatment for cancer, as near infrared (NIR)-induced photo-thermal effect (PTT) and/or photo-dynamic effect (PDT) could increase cancer cells’ apoptosis. However, the certain role of HMON@CuS-produced-PTT&PDT inducing gastric cancer (GC) cells’ mitochondrial damage, remained unclear. Moreover, theranostic eﬃciency of HMON@CuS might be well improved by applying multi-modal imaging, which could offer an optimal therapeutic region and time window. Herein, new nanotheranostics agents were reported by Gd doped HMON decorated by CuS nanocrystals (called HMON@CuS/Gd).Results: HMON@CuS/Gd exhibited appropriate size distribution, good biocompatibility, L-Glutathione (GSH) responsive degradable properties, high photo-thermal conversion eﬃciency (82.4%) and a simultaneous reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation effect. Meanwhile, HMON@CuS/Gd could efficiently enter GC cells, induce combined mild PTT (43-45 °C) and PDT under mild NIR power density (0.8W/cm2). Surprisingly, it was found that PTT might not be the only factor of cell apoptosis, as ROS induced by PDT also seemed playing an essential role. The NIR-induced ROS could attack mitochondrial transmembrane potentials (MTPs), then promote mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mitoROS) production. Meanwhile, mitochondrial damage dramatically changed the expression of anti-apoptotic protein (Bcl-2) and pro-apoptotic protein (Bax). Since that, mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) was opened, followed by inducing more cytochrome c (Cyto C) releasing from mitochondria into cytosol, and finally activated caspase-9/caspase-3-depended cell apoptosis pathway. Our in vivo data also showed that HMON@CuS/Gd exhibited good fluorescence (FL) imaging (wrapping fluorescent agent), enhanced T1 imaging under magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and infrared thermal (IRT) imaging capacities. Guided by FL/MRI/ IRT trimodal imaging, HMON@CuS/Gd could selectively cause mild photo-therapy at cancer region, efficiently inhibit the growth of GC cells without evident systemic toxicity in vivo. Conclusion: HMON@CuS/Gd could serve as a promising multifunctional nanotheranostic platform and as a cancer photo-therapy agent through inducing mitochondrial dysfunction on GC.
The Associated Risk Factors and Psychosocial Adjustments among the Peer Victimized Adolescents in Malaysia: A Population-based Nationwide Study
Authors: heng pei pei , Lim Kuang Hock , Teh Chien Huey , PS Balvinder Singh Gill
Published: June 2020

Background

Bullying and victimization among secondary school – going adolescents is a severe social issue which demands concerted attention from the policy-makers, health-care providers and community. The victimized children, in the long term might develop the deleterious consequences on mental health. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of victimization among Malaysian school-attending adolescents, the associated risk factors and its psychosocial impacts among victims.
Methods

Data was derived from the Global School Health Survey Malaysia (GSHS-M). A total of 25,461 students aged 13–18 years from 234 randomly selected schools were recruited utilizing a two-state cluster sampling design. The study tool employed standardized self-administered questionnaire. Data was analyzed descriptively and multivariable logistic regression using SPSS version 20.0.
Results

About one fifth (17.9%, 95%CI 16.8–19.0) of the respondents reported being victimized at least once in the past 30-days. Made fun of gender and body image was the most prevalent type of bullying (41.0%, 95%CI 38.3–43.8). Multivariable logistic regression analysis further substantiated that likelihood of victimization was higher among the boys (aOR 1.30, 95%CI 1.17–1.44), students of lower secondary form (aOR 1.87, 95%CI 1.64–2.13), those without close friend (aOR 2.09, 95%CI 1.66–2.64) as well as the obese respondents (aOR 1.29, 95%CI 1.13–1.47). Victims without parental support were more likely to missed school (aOR 0.81, 95%CI 0.59–1.13), considered suicide (aOR 1.60, 95%CI 1.18–2.18), made suicide plan (aOR 1.45, 95%CI 2.01–1.08), as well as attempted suicide at least once in the past 12 months (aOR 0.48, 95%CI 0.33–0.69).
Conclusion

School bullying among secondary school-going adolescents warranted specially tailored intervention strategies, particularly to minimize the physical as well as psychosocial impact among the victims.
Intermediate Outcomes of ab Externo Circumferentialtrabeculotomy and Canaloplastyin POAG Patients with Prior Incisional Glaucoma Surgery
Authors: Wang Huaizhou , Xin Chen , Han Ying , Shi Yan , Ziaei Sarah , Wang Ningli
Published: June 2020

Background: To compare the efficacy and safety of ab externo circumferential trabeculotomy (ECT) and canaloplasty on primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients with failed filtering surgery and intact schlemm’s canal (SC).Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of POAG patients with failed filtering surgery and intact SC, who further received ECT and canaloplasty. The primary outcome measures were intraocular pressure (IOP) and the number of topical medications at each follow-up point.The secondary outcome compared the quantified success rate at1-year follow-up between the groups. Results:Twenty-nine eyes were recruited in the ECT group and 19 eyes in canaloplasty group. The postoperative IOP and the number of topical medications decreased significantly in both groups(p<0.001). The IOP at 3-month and 6-monthwas significantly lower in the ECT group (p=0.039, p=0.001) than in the canaloplasty group. Although the IOP at 12-mon was similar between the two groups, the number of topical medications was less in the ECP group (p=0.040). Hyphema (72.4%) and ciliary body detachment (27.6%), which mainly resolve spontaneously, were two leading complications in the ECT group. The prevalence of hyphema was higher in ECT than in canaloplasty group (p<0.001). Conclusion: For POAG with failed filtering surgery and intact SC, canaloplasty may be safer, whereas ECT presented better IOP control.Translational Relevance:
The association between various biological, behavioural and psychosocial factors and type 2 diabetes mellitus in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Issaka Ayuba , Paradies Yin , Cameron Adrian J , Stevenson Christopher
Published: June 2020

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a significant public health concern in many African countries. While the determinants underpinning T2DM are likely to be Africa-specific, knowledge of these risk factors is largely derived from developed countries. This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis to include biological, behavioural and psychosocial risk factors for T2DM in Africa.
Methods

Relevant scientific databases were searched, and data were extracted from 66 studies. Fifty- nine studies reported unadjusted data and were analysed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software version 2.0. The Odds ratios (OR) and their 95% CIs for the associations between BMI indices (overweight, obesity), central obesity (waist circumference, waist to hip ratio), behavioural (alcohol, fruit and vegetable consumption, smoking), physical inactivity, and psychosocial factors (stress, anxiety, and depression) and T2DM were calculated using a random-effect model. Moderator effects of age, language-spoken, sub-regions and urban/rural location was assessed.
Results

A number of risk factors were associated with T2DM including, BMI-based definitions of obesity [OR = 3.22, 95% CI: 92.73, 3.80)], overweight [OR = 2.22, 95% CI: (1.90, 2.58)], or overweight/obesity [OR = 2.58, 95% CI: (1.76, 3.78)]; Central obesity as measured by waist circumference [OR = 2.51, 95% CI: (1.86, 3.37)], or waist to hip ratio [OR = 2.03, 95% CI: 1.51, 2.72]; psychosocial factors which includes stress [OR = 2.2, 95% CI: (1.46, 3.31)], depression [OR = 2.42, 95% CI: (1.14, 3.31)] and anxiety [OR = 2.05, 95% (CI:1.0, 4.18)] and physical inactivity [OR = 1.88, 95% CI: (1.53, 2.23)]. Current smoker [OR = 1.13, 95% CI: (0.84, 1.49)], alcohol consumption [OR = 1.10, 95% CI: (0.82, 1.47)] and inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption [OR = 0.81, 95% CI: (0.57, 1.16)] were not associated with T2DM. Locality (urban/rural), language spoken, and sub-region (East/West Africa) did not significantly moderate the associations between the risk factors and T2DM.
Conclusion

Obesity (defined by BMI) is most strongly associated with T2DM. Overweight, waist circumference and waist to hip ratio, physical inactivity, psychosocial risk factors defined as stress, depression, anxiety were all significantly associated with T2DM. These findings add novel meta-analyses of associations between diverse individual risk factors and T2DM within the African context.