bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amino Acid as a Novel Wettability Modifier for Enhanced Waterflooding in Carbonate Reservoirs
Authors: Lara Orozco Ricardo A. , Abeykoon Gayan A. , Wang Mingyuan , Argüelles-Vivas Francisco , Okuno Ryosuke , Lake Larry W. , Ayirala Subhash C. , AlSofi Abdulkareem M.
Published: December 2019

Reservoir wettability plays an important role in waterflooding, especially in fractured carbonate reservoirs since oil recovery from the rock matrix is inefficient because of their mixed wettability. This paper presents the first investigation of amino acids as wettability modifiers that increase waterflooding oil recovery in carbonate reservoirs.

All experiments used a heavy-oil sample taken from a carbonate reservoir. Two amino acids were tested, glycine and β-alanine. Contact angle experiments with oil-aged calcite were conducted at room temperature with deionized (DI) water, and then at 368 K with three saline solutions: 243 571-mg/L salinity formation brine (FB), 68 975-mg/L salinity injection brine 1 (IB1), and 6898-mg/L salinity injection brine 2 (IB2). IB2 was made by dilution of IB1.

The contact angle experiment with 5-wt% glycine solution in FB (FB-Gly5) resulted in an average contact angle of 50°, in comparison to 130° with FB, at 368 K. Some of the oil droplets were completely detached from the calcite surface within a few days. In contrast, the β-alanine solutions were not effective in wettability alteration of oil-aged calcite with the brines tested at 368 K.

Glycine was further studied in spontaneous and forced imbibition experiments with oil-aged Indiana limestone cores at 368 K using IB2 and three solutions of 5 wt% glycine in FB, IB1, and IB2 (FB-Gly5, IB1-Gly5, and IB2-Gly5). The oil recovery factors from the imbibition experiments gave the Amott index to water as follows: 0.65 for FB-Gly5, 0.59 for IB1-Gly5, 0.61 for IB2-Gly5, and 0.33 for IB2. This indicates a clear, positive impact of glycine on wettability alteration of the Indiana limestone cores tested.

Two possible mechanisms were explained for glycine to enhance the spontaneous imbibition in oil-wet carbonate rocks. The primary mechanism is that the glycine solution weakens the interaction between polar oil components and positively charged rock surfaces when the solution pH is between glycine's isoelectric point (pI) and the surface's point of zero charge (pzc). The secondary mechanism is that the addition of glycine tends to decrease the solution pH slightly, which in turn changes the carbonate wettability in brines to a less oil-wet state.

The amino acids tested in this research are nontoxic and commercially available at relatively low cost. The results suggest a new method of enhancing waterflooding, for which the novel mechanism of wettability alteration involves the interplay between amino acid pI, solution's pH, and rock's pzc.
Childhood maltreatment as a risk factor for cancer: Findings from a population-based survey of Canadian adults
Authors: Hovdestad Wendy , Shields Margot , Shaw Amanda , Tonmyr Lil
Published: December 2019

Background: Childhood maltreatment (CM) is an established risk factor for various mental and substance use disorders. This study adds to existing evidence that CM may also be a risk factor for cancer. Methods: Based on data from a sample of 9,783 men and 12,132 women from the 2012 Canadian Community Health Survey - Mental Health (CCHS-MH), this analysis explores mediated associations between cancer in adulthood and different levels of exposure to three types of CM—childhood physical abuse (CPA), childhood sexual abuse (CSA), and childhood exposure to intimate partner violence (CEIPV). “Cancer” was defined as an affirmative response to either of these questions: ‘‘Do you have cancer?’’ or ‘‘Have you ever been diagnosed with cancer?’’ The potential mediators were: smoking, depression, alcohol abuse/dependence, life stress, obesity, and physical activity. Results: For women, but not men, having experienced CM was significantly associated with a cancer diagnosis in adulthood, even when effects due to age and socio-demographic characteristics were controlled. Smoking, life stress, depression, and alcohol abuse/dependence reduced the strength of the association between CM and cancer in women. However, most associations remained statistically significant when controlling for effects due to these behavioural and other mediators. Evidence indicated a “dose-response” relationship, in that the likelihood of reporting cancer increased with the number of abuse types (CPA, CSA, CEIPV) reported, and with the severity of CPA. Conclusions: The analyses suggest an association between CM and cancer in women, even when the effects of known risk factors were taken into account. The association was graded, becoming stronger as CM exposure increased. Implications for the provision of cancer screening and other health care services to women with histories of CM to reduce health disparities are discussed. Keywords “child abuse” “child maltreatment” “ACE” “adverse childhood experiences” “risk factors” “gender differences” “population health survey” “chronic disease”
Identification of two novel COL10A1 heterozygous mutations in two Chinese pedigrees with Schmid-type metaphyseal chondrodysplasia
Authors: Kong Lingchi , Shi Li , Wang Wenbo , Zuo Rongtai , Wang Mengwei , Kang Qinglin
Published: December 2019

Background: Schmid-type metaphyseal chondrodysplasia (MCDS) is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by COL10A1 mutations, which is characterized by short stature, waddling gait, coxa vara and bowing of the long bones. However, descriptions of the expressivity of MCDS are rare. Methods: Two probands and available family members affected with MCDS were subjected to clinical and radiological examination. Genomic DNA of all affected individuals was subjected to whole-exome sequencing, and candidate mutations were verified by Sanger sequencing in all available family members and in 250 healthy donors. A spatial model of the type X collagen (α1) C-terminal noncollagenous (NC1) domain was further constructed. Results: We found that the phenotype of affected family members exhibited incomplete dominance. Mutation analysis indicated that there were two novel heterozygous missense mutations, [c.1765T>A (p.Phe589Ile)] and [c.1846A>G (p.Lys616Glu)] in the COL10A1 gene in family 1 and 2, respectively. The two novel substitution sites were highly conserved and the mutations were predicted to be deleterious by in silico analysis. Furthermore, protein modeling revealed that the two substitutions were located in the NC1 domain of collagen X (α1), which potentially impacted the trimerization of collagen X (α1) and combination with molecules in the pericellular matrix. Conclusion: Two novel mutations were identified in the present study, which will facilitate diagnosis of MCDS and further expand the spectrum of the COL10A1 mutations associated with MCDS patients. In addition, our research revealed the phenomenon of incomplete dominance in MCDS.
The influence of depressive symptoms on the efficacy of a short-term group form of Schema Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for personality disorders: A naturalistic study
Authors: Koppers David , Van Henricus , Peen Jaap , Alberts Jet , Dekker Jack
Published: December 2019

Background: This naturalistic study looked at the effect of comorbid depressive symptoms on the outcomes – at treatment termination and three-month follow-up – of Short-Term Schema Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in groups for personality disorders.
Methods: We investigated 225 patients with personality disorders and comorbid depressive symptoms (PD-DEP) and patients without comorbidity (PD), focusing on symptom and schema severity and coping styles. We also measured the rate of symptom remission. The data obtained were subjected to multilevel analysis.
Results: Psychiatric symptoms and maladaptive schemas improved in both patient groups. Effect sizes were moderate. It proved more difficult to improve coping styles. Symptom remission was achieved in the minority of the total sample There were no differences in outcome between PD and PD-DEP at treatment termination. Psychiatric symptoms were more severe among PD-DEP patients at follow-up.
Conclusion: A short-term form of schema therapy in groups proved to be an effective approach for a broad group of patients with personality disorders, however, the majority of patients did not achieve symptom remission. This indicates that this type of short-term group therapy should be considered a valuable first step in a stepped-care model.
Dual effect of the Valsalva maneuver on autonomic nervous system activity, intraocular pressure, Schlemm’s canal, and iridocorneal angle morphology
Authors: Sun Li , Chen Wei , Chen Zhiqi , Xiang Yan , Guo Jingmin , Hu Tian , Xu Qiongfang , Zhang Hong , Wang Junming
Published: December 2019

Background: The Valsalva maneuver (VM) is widely used in daily life, and has been reported to cause high intraocular pressure (IOP). This study aimed to assess changes in IOP, the Schlemm’s canal (SC), autonomic nervous system activity, and iridocorneal angle morphology in healthy individuals during different phases of the VM. Methods: The high frequency (HF) of heart rate (HR) variability, the ratio of low frequency power (LF) and HF (LF/HF), heart rate (HR), IOP, systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), the area of SC (SCAR), pupil diameter (PD), and some iridocorneal angle parameters (AOD500, ARA750, TIA500 and TISA500) were measured in 29 young healthy individuals at baseline, phase 2, and phase 4 of the VM. SBP and DBP were measured to calculate mean arterial pressure (MAP) and mean ocular perfusion pressure (MOPP). HF and the LF/HF ratio were recorded using Kubios HR variability premium software to evaluate autonomic nervous system activity. The profiles of the anterior chamber were captured by a Spectralis optical coherence tomography device (anterior segment module). Results: Compared with baseline values, in phase 2 of the VM, HR, LF/HF, IOP (15.1±2.7 vs. 18.8±3.5 mmHg, P < 0.001), SCAR(mean) (7712.112±2992.14 vs. 8921.12±4482.79 μm2, P = 0.039), and PD increased significantly, whereas MOPP, AOD500, TIA500, and TISA500 decreased significantly. In phase 4, DBP, MAP, AOD500, ARA750, TIA500and TISA500 were significantly lower than baseline value, while PD and HF were remarkably larger than baseline. The comparison between phase 2 and phase 4 showed that HR, IOP (18.8±3.5 vs. 14.7±2.9 mmHg, P < 0.001) and PD decreased significantly from phase 2 to phase 4, but there were no significant differences in other parameters. Conclusions: The expansion and collapse of the SC in different phases of the VM may arise from changes in autonomic nervous system activity. Further, the effects of the VM on IOP may be attributed to changes in blood flow and ocular anatomy.
Working Memory and Decision making in children with ADHD: an analysis of delay discounting with the use of the dual-task paradigm
Authors: Fabio Rosa Angela , Bianco Marilla , Caprì Tindara , Marino Flavia , Ruta Liliana , Vagni David , Pioggia Giovanni
Published: December 2019

Objective: Deficits in working memory tasks have been widely documented in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) studies. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of working memory load in impulsivity during decision-making processes. A delayed discounting (DD) paradigm was used, comparing children with ADHD and age-matched controls. Method: Thirty-two children equally divided between typically developing and ADHD, from 8 to 10 years of age were assigned to sessions of a dual-task paradigm. In the primary task the child has to choice between two different amounts of money at different time delays, while in the secondary task the child has to repeat a random series of digits with different lengths. The experiment was conducted in a school setting. Results: Compared to peers with typical development, delayed discounting was significantly stronger in children with ADHD and discounting rates increased in both groups for heavier memory loads. Furthermore, the memory load impact on frequency of immediate rewards was stronger in children with ADHD compared to typically developing children. Discussion: Results are discussed in terms of the relation between working memory load and decision-making processes, their impact on impulsive behaviour in ADHD and the need for future research to understand possible neurocognitive correlates and use those information to develop better inclusive policies.
Orthopaedic Surgeons Perceptions of Frailty and Frailty Screening
Authors: Archibald Mandy , Lawless Michael , Gill Tiffany , Chehade Mellick
Published: December 2019

Background Over the past decade, there has been significant growth in the awareness and understanding of fragility among orthopaedic surgeons in the context of osteoporotic fractures and with it, improvements in the recognition and management of fragility fractures. Emerging as a major clinical and research focus in aged care is the concept of frailty and its associations with fragility, sarcopenia, falls and rehabilitation. Currently, research is lacking on how orthopaedic surgeons perceive frailty and the role of frailty screening. A baseline understanding of these perceptions is needed to inform integration of frailty identification and management for patient optimization in orthopaedic practices, as well as research and education efforts of patients and healthcare professionals in orthopaedic contexts. Methods We used an exploratory design guided by qualitative description to conduct 15 semi-structured telephone and in-person interviews across three orthopaedic surgeon subgroups (Registrars, Junior and Senior Consultants). Data collection and analysis occurred iteratively and was guided by thematic saturation. Results Orthopaedic surgeons have a disparate understanding of frailty. Between colleagues, frailty is often referred to non-specifically to suggest a general state of risk to the patient. Frailty screening is regarded positively but its specific utility in orthopaedic environments is questioned. Easy-to-administer frailty screening tools that are not exclusive assessments of functional status are viewed most satisfactorily. However these tools are rarely used. Conclusions There is little understanding among orthopaedic surgeons of frailty as a phenotype. Beliefs around modifiability of frailty were dissimilar as were the impact of related risk factors, such a cognitive status, chronic disease, social isolation, and environmental influences. This in turn may significantly impact on the occurrence and treatment outcomes of fragility fracture, a common orthopaedic problem in older populations. This study highlights need for knowledge translation efforts (e.g. education) to achieve cohesive understanding of frailty among health professionals.
Interaction between serum FGF-23 and PTH in renal phosphate excretion, a case-control study in hypoparathyroid patients
Authors: Saki Forough , Kassaee Seyed Reza , Salehifar Azita Salehifar , omrani gholamhossein Ranjbar
Published: December 2019

Background:phosphate homeostasis is mediated through complex counter regulatory feed-back balance between parathyroid hormone, FGF-23 and 1,25(OH)2D. Both parathyroid hormone and FGF-23 regulate proximal tubular phosphate excretion through signaling on sodium- phosphate cotransporters II a and II c . However, the interaction between these hormones on phosphate excretion is not clearly understood. We performed the present study to evaluate whether the existence of sufficient parathyroid hormone is necessary for full phosphaturic function of FGF-23 or not. Methods:In this case-control study, 19 patients with hypoparathyroidism and their age- and gender-matched normal population were enrolled. Serum calcium, phosphate, alkaline phosphatase,parathyroid hormone, FGF-23, 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)2D and Fractional excretion of phosphorous were assessed and compared between the two groups, using SPSS software. Results:The mean serum calcium and parathyroid hormone level was significantly lower in hypoparathyroid patients in comparison with the control group(P<0.001 and P<0.001, respectively). We found high serum level of phosphate and FGF-23 in hypoparathyroid patients compared to the control group (P<0.001 and P<0.001,respectively). However, there was no significant difference in Fractional excretion of phosphorous or 1,25OH2D level between the two groups. There was a positive correlation between serum FGF-23 and Fractional excretion of phosphorous just in the normal individuals (P <0.001, r = 0.79). Conclusions:Although the FGF-23 is a main regulator of urinary phosphate excretion but the existence of sufficient parathyroid hormone is necessary for the full phosphaturic effect of FGF-23.
Assessing physical activity in people with mental illness: 23-country reliability and validity of the Simple Physical Activity Questionnaire (SIMPAQ)
Authors: Rosenbaum Simon , Morell Rachel , Abdel-Baki Amal , Ahmadpanah Mohammad , Anilkumar Thekkethayyil Viswananthan , Baie Lara , Bauman Adrian , Bender Stefan , Han Justin Boyan , Brand Serge , Bratland-Sanda Solfrid , Bueno-Antequera Javier , Deslandes Andrea Camaz , Carneiro Lara , Carraro Attilio , Castaneda Carmen Paz , Monteiro Fernanda Castro , Chapman Justin , Chau Josephine , Chen Li-Jung , Chvatalova Barbara , Chwastiak Lydia , Corretti Giogio , Dillon Maurice , Douglas Christie , Egger Stephan , Gaughran Fiona , Gerber Markus , Gobbi Erica , Gould Kirrily , Hatzinger Martin , Holsboer-Tracksler Edith , Hoodbhoy Zara , Imboden Christian , Indu Pillaveetil Sathyadas , Iqbal Romaina , de Jesus-Moraleida Fabianna Resende , Kondo Shinsuke , Ku Po-Wen , Lederman Oscar , Lee Edwin Ho Ming , Malchow Berend , Matthews Evan , Mazur Peter , Meneghelli Anna , Mian Ayesha , Morseth Bente , Munguia-Izquierdo Diego , Nyboe Lene , O'Donoghue Brian , Perram Amy , Richards Justin , Romain Ahmed J , Romaniuk Madeline , Sadeghi-Bahmani Dena , Sarno Mariella , Schuch Felipe , Schweinfurth Nina , Stubbs Brendon , Uwakwe Richard , Damme Tine Van , Stouwe Elisabeth Van Der , Vancampfort Davy , Vetter Stefan , Waterreus Anna , Ward Philip B
Published: December 2019

Background: Physical inactivity is a key contributor to the global burden of disease and disproportionately impacts the wellbeing of people experiencing mental illness. Increases in physical activity are associated with improvements in symptoms of mental illness and reduction in cardiometabolic risk. Reliable and valid clinical tools that assess physical activity would improve evaluation of intervention studies that aim to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviour in people living with mental illness. Methods: The five-item Simple Physical Activity Questionnaire (SIMPAQ) was developed by a multidisciplinary, international working group as a clinical tool to assess physical activity and sedentary behaviour in people living with mental illness. Investigators from 43 centres in 23 countries collected reliability and validity data on the SIMPAQ from patients with DSM or ICD mental illness diagnoses. Test-retest repeatability was assessed one-week apart. Results: Criterion SIMPAQ validity was assessed against accelerometer-derived measures of physical activity. Data were obtained from 1,010 participants. The SIMPAQ had good test-retest reliability (Spearman rho approximately 0.70). Criterion validity for moderate-vigorous physical activity was comparable to studies conducted in general population samples. Criterion validity of the sedentary behaviour item was poor. An alternative method to calculate sedentary behaviour had greater criterion validity. This alternative method is recommended for use in future studies employing the SIMPAQ. Conclusions: The SIMPAQ is a brief measure of physical activity and sedentary behaviour that can be reliably and validly administered by health professionals.
Increased levels of serum Hcy and UA as well as the thickness of carotid intima-media correlates with the severity of coronary artery lesions
Authors: Tan Changming , Li Jianming , Zhou Yangzhao , Xu Feng
Published: December 2019

Background: To investigate the correlation between serum homocysteine (Hcy) and uric acid (UA) levels as well as the carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and the severity of coronary artery lesions in elderly patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods: A total of 156 elderly patients (≥60 years old) with CHD in the study group ; 54 patients with normal coronary artery were selected as the control group. The study group were further divided into low (≤20 points, n=72), middle (21-39 points, n=56) and high (≥40 points, n=28) score groups according to SYNTAX score. Serum Hcy and UA levels, IMT, Gensini and Sullivan scores were measured and analyzed by Pearson correlation. The risk factors for CHD and the correlation were analyzed by single factor analysis and logistic regression. Results: SYNTAX scores showed that the levels of serum Hcy, UA, and the IMT in middle [(20.03 ± 7.88) μmol/L, (326.34 ± 79.34) μmol/L, (1.26 ± 0.07) mm)] and high score [(28.98 ± 8.04) μmol/L, (456.67 ± 98.34) μmol/L, (1.33 ± 0.08) mm] groups were significantly higher compared to the low score group [(11.34 ± 6.83) μmol/L, (206.78 ± 77.45) μmol/L, (1.19 ± 0.05) mm)], while the high score group had the highest levels (all P < 0.001). Serum Hcy, UA levels and the IMT were positively correlated with SYNTAX and Sullivan scores (all P < 0.001). Additionally, male gender, smoking, history of hypertension, systolic pressure, pulse pressure, Hcy, UA, IMT, and BMI independently correlated with the severity of CHD (all P < 0.05). Conclusions: The serum levels of Hcy and UA and the IMT in patients with CHD were significantly elevates, and positively correlated with the severity of coronary artery lesions, which may serve as diagnostic indicators.
Impact of a semi-structured briefing on the management of adverse events in anesthesiology: A randomized pilot study.
Authors: Neuhaus Christopher , Schäfer Johannes , Weigand Markus A. , Lichtenstern Christoph
Published: December 2019

Background: Human factors research has identified mental models as a key component for the effective sharing and organization of knowledge. The challenge lies in the development and application of tools that help team members to arrive at a shared understanding of a situation. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of a semi-structured briefing on the management of a simulated airway emergency. Methods: 37 interprofessional teams were asked to perform a simulated rapid-sequence induction in the simulator. Teams were presented with a “cannot ventilate, cannot oxygenate” scenario that ultimately required a cricothyroidotomy. Study group (SG) teams were asked to perform a briefing prior to induction, while controls (CG) were asked to perform their usual routine. Results: We observed no difference in the mean time until cricothyroidotomy (SG 8:31 CG 8:16, p=0.36). There was a significant difference in groups’ choice of alternative means of oxygenation: While SG teams primarily chose supraglottic airway devices, controls initially reverted to mask ventilation (p=0.005). SG teams spent significantly less time with this alternative airway device and were quicker to advance in the airway algorithm. Conclusions: Our study addresses effects on team coordination through a shared mental model as effected by a briefing prior to anesthesia induction. We found measurable improvements in airway management during those stages of the difficult airway algorithm explicitly discussed in the briefing. For those, time spent was shorter and participants were quicker to advance in the airway algorithm.
Retrospective cohort study of trifluridine/tipiracil (TAS-102) plus bevacizumab versus trifluridine/tipiracil monotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Kotani Daisuke , Kuboki Yasutoshi , Horasawa Satoshi , Kaneko Asumi , Nakamura Yoshiaki , Kawazoe Akihito , Bando Hideaki , Taniguchi Hiroya , Shitara Kohei , Kojima Takashi , Tsuji Akihito , Yoshino Takayuki
Published: December 2019

Background: A previous phase I/II C-TASK FORCE study of trifluridine/tipiracil plus bevacizumab for patients with heavily pretreated metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) showed promising activity with an acceptable toxicity profile. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of trifluridine/tipiracil plus bevacizumab compared with trifluridine/tipiracil monotherapy in patients with heavily pretreated mCRC in clinical settings. Methods: Records of patients with mCRC refractory to standard therapies who initiated trifluridine/tipiracil plus bevacizumab from January 2016 to March 2018 or trifluridine/tipiracil monotherapy from June 2014 to December 2015 were retrospectively reviewed at our institution. Results: Totally, 60 patients received trifluridine/tipiracil plus bevacizumab and 66 received trifluridine/tipiracil monotherapy. All patients had previously received standard chemotherapy. Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 3.7 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.3−5.1] in the trifluridine/tipiracil plus bevacizumab group and 2.2 months (95% CI, 1.8−2.6) in the trifluridine/tipiracil monotherapy group [hazards ratio (HR) 0.69; 95% CI 0.48−0.99]. PFS rate at 16 weeks was 46.6% for the trifluridine/tipiracil plus bevacizumab group and 33.9% for the trifluridine/tipiracil monotherapy group. Although a relatively higher incidence of grade ≥3 neutropenia was observed in the trifluridine/tipiracil plus bevacizumab group than that in the other group (50.0% vs. 40.9%, p = 0.371), the incidence of febrile neutropenia was not high (3.3% vs. 7.8%, p = 0.444). Conclusions: In real-world settings, trifluridine/tipiracil plus bevacizumab prolonged PFS and helped achieve higher 16-week PFS rate compared with trifluridine/tipiracil monotherapy in patients with heavily pretreated mCRC with manageable toxicities. Trial registration: Retrospectively registered
Elevated expression of AGGF1 predicts poor prognosis and promotes the metastasis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Xin , Sun Huimin , Chen Wanyuan , He Xianglei
Published: December 2019

Background: Angiogenic factor with G-patch and FHA domains 1 ( AGGF1 ) can promote angiogenesis and increasing evidence has highlighted the important roles of AGGF1 in tumorigenesis. However, the differential expression as well as the biological functions of AGGF1 in colorectal cancer ( CRC ) remain to be established. The purpose of the present study is therefore to identify the effect of AGGF1 on prognosis and metastasis in CRC patients. Methods: The expression level of AGGF1 in CRC was examined by qPCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry in a tissue microarray containing 236 CRC specimens and paired normal mucosae. And the effect of AGGF1 on CRC cell malignance was investigated in our established stable AGGF1 upregulated and knockdown CRC cell lines. Results: The expression level of AGGF1 in CRC tissue was not significantly different to that in adjacent normal mucosa at the mRNA level. However, at the protein level, AGGF1 expression in CRC tissues was significantly higher than in paired normal mucosa, which showed a clear association with TNM stage, AJCC stage, vascular invasion, and differentiation. Further, we revealed an apparent correlation between AGGF1 expression and poorer disease-free survival and overall survival of CRC patients. In addition, we discovered that AGGF1 significantly promoted CRC cell wound healing, migration, and invasion in vitro and distant metastasis in vivo . Conclusions: Our study demonstrates the aberrant overexpression of AGGF1 in CRC and provides a basis on which to explore the application of AGGF1 as a potential therapeutic target for CRC patients, especially for CRC patients with distant metastasis.
Diagnostic capability of a linear discriminant function applied to a novel Spectralis OCT glaucoma-detection protocol
Authors: Bambo Maria Pilar , Fuentemilla Enrique , Cameo Beatriz , Fuertes Isabel , Ferrandez Blanca , Güerri Noemi , Polo Vicente , Larrosa Jose M. , Pablo Luis E. , Garcia-Martin Elena
Published: December 2019

Background

Bruch membrane opening–minimum rim width (BMO–MRW) assessment offers a new diagnostic use in glaucoma patients of the Glaucoma Module Premium Edition (GMPE) available for the Spectralis optical coherence tomography (OCT) system. The objective of our research was to evaluate the diagnostic benefits of examining BMO–MRW and peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (pRNFL) readings acquired with Spectralis OCT to distinguish between healthy and mild glaucoma patients, comparing those readings with the standard pRNFL application. Moreover, we investigated whether using a particular combination of BMO–MRW and pRNFL parameters with a linear discriminant function (LDF) could further enhance glaucoma diagnosis.Methods

136 eyes from 136 individuals were incorporated into this observational, prospective cross-sectional study: 68 mild primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) patients according to the Hodapp-Parrish-Anderson criteria (mean deviation between 0 and -6 dB) and 68 healthy control subjects selected by Propensity Score Matching. MRW and pRNFL thickness around the disc (diameters: 3.5 mm, 4.1 mm, and 4.7 mm) were obtained using the BMO–MRW protocol, and pRNFL thickness at 3.5 mm was obtained with the standard glaucoma application. The group data were contrasted. One sample was chosen at random to develop the LDF (teaching set: 34 healthy subjects and 34 POAG patients) using a combination of MRW and pRNFL parameters (acquired with the BMO–MRW protocol); the other sample provided a test of how the LDF performed on an independent group (validating set: 34 healthy subjects and 34 POAG patients). The receiver operating curves (ROCs) were plotted for every measurement and contrasted with the proposed LDF. The OCT parameters with the best area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were determined.Results

Global MRW and pRNFL thicknesses were significantly thinner in the POAG group (p < 0.001). The BMO–MRW parameters showed good diagnostic accuracy; the largest AUCs reached 0.875 for the LDF and 0.879 for global RNFL thickness using the standard glaucoma application. There were no statistical differences between the AUCs calculated.Conclusions

BMO–MRW parameters show a strong capability to differentiate between mild glaucoma and control eyes. Our LDF based on the new BMO–MRW OCT protocol did not perform better than isolated parameters.
Diagnostic capability of a linear discriminant function applied to a novel Spectralis OCT glaucoma-detection protocol
Authors: Bambo Maria Pilar , Fuentemilla Enrique , Cameo Beatriz , Fuertes Isabel , Ferrandez Blanca , Güerri Noemi , Polo Vicente , Larrosa Jose M. , Pablo Luis E. , Garcia-Martin Elena
Published: December 2019

Background Bruch membrane opening–minimum rim width (BMO–MRW) assessment offers a new diagnostic use in glaucoma patients of the Glaucoma Module Premium Edition (GMPE) available for the Spectralis optical coherence tomography (OCT) system. The objective of our research was to evaluate the diagnostic benefits of examining BMO–MRW and peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (pRNFL) readings acquired with Spectralis OCT to distinguish between healthy and mild glaucoma patients, comparing those readings with the standard pRNFL application. Moreover, we investigated whether using a particular combination of BMO–MRW and pRNFL parameters with a linear discriminant function (LDF) could further enhance glaucoma diagnosis.Methods 136 eyes from 136 individuals were incorporated into this observational, prospective cross-sectional study: 68 mild primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) patients according to the Hodapp-Parrish-Anderson criteria (mean deviation between 0 and -6 dB) and 68 healthy control subjects selected by Propensity Score Matching. MRW and pRNFL thickness around the disc (diameters: 3.5 mm, 4.1 mm, and 4.7 mm) were obtained using the BMO–MRW protocol, and pRNFL thickness at 3.5 mm was obtained with the standard glaucoma application. The group data were contrasted. One sample was chosen at random to develop the LDF (teaching set: 34 healthy subjects and 34 POAG patients) using a combination of MRW and pRNFL parameters (acquired with the BMO–MRW protocol); the other sample provided a test of how the LDF performed on an independent group (validating set: 34 healthy subjects and 34 POAG patients). The receiver operating curves (ROCs) were plotted for every measurement and contrasted with the proposed LDF. The OCT parameters with the best area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were determined.Results Global MRW and pRNFL thicknesses were significantly thinner in the POAG group (p < 0.001). The BMO–MRW parameters showed good diagnostic accuracy; the largest AUCs reached 0.875 for the LDF and 0.879 for global RNFL thickness using the standard glaucoma application. There were no statistical differences between the AUCs calculated.Conclusions BMO–MRW parameters show a strong capability to differentiate between mild glaucoma and control eyes. Our LDF based on the new BMO–MRW OCT protocol did not perform better than isolated parameters.
Low red/far-red ratio as a signal promotes carbon assimilation of soybean seedlings by increasing the photosynthetic capacity
Authors: Yang Feng , Liu Qinlin , Cheng Yajiao , Feng Lingyang , Wu Xiaoling , Fan Yuanfang , Raza Muhammad Ali , Wang Xiaochun , Yong Taiwen , Liu Weiguo , Liu Jiang , Du Junbo , Shu Kai , Yang Wenyu
Published: December 2019

Background: Shading includes low light intensity and varying quality. However, a low red/far-red (R/Fr) ratio of light is a signal that affects plant growth in intercropping and close- planting systems. Thus, the low R/Fr ratio uncoupling from shading conditions was assessed to identify the effect of light quality on photosynthesis and CO2 assimilation. Soybean plants were grown in a growth chamber with natural solar radiation under four treatments, that is, normal (N, sunlight), N+Fr, Low (L) +Fr, and L light. Results: Low R/Fr ratio significantly increased the total biomass, leaf area, starch and sucrose contents, chlorophyll content, net photosynthetic rate, and quantum efficiency of the photosystem II compared with normal R/Fr ratio under the same light level (P < 0.05). Proteomic analysis of soybean leaves under different treatments was performed to quantify the changes in photosynthesis and CO2 assimilation in the chloroplast. Among the 7834 proteins quantified, 12 showed a > 1.3-fold change in abundance, of which 1 was related to porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, 2 were involved in photosystem I (PS I), 4 were associated with PS II, 3 proteins participated in photosynthetic electron transport, and 2 were involved in starch and sucrose metabolism. The dynamic change in these proteins indicates that photosynthesis and CO2 assimilation were maintained in the L treatment by up-regulating the component protein levels compared with those in N treatment. Although low R/Fr ratio increased the photosynthetic CO2 assimilation parameters, the differences in most protein expression levels in N+Fr and L+Fr treatments compared with those in N treatment were insignificant. Similar trends were found in gene expression through quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction excluding the gene expression of sucrose synthase possible because light environment is one of the factors affecting carbon assimilation. Conclusions: Low R/Fr ratio (high Fr light) can increase the photosynthetic CO2 assimilation in the same light intensity by improving the photosynthetic efficiency of the photosystems.
Diagnostic potential of ultrasound in carpal tunnel syndrome with different etiologies: correlation of sonographic median nerve measures with electrodiagnostic severity.
Authors: Elnady Basant , Rageh Elsayed M , Ekhouly Tohamy H. , Fathy Sabry M. , Alshaar Mohamed , Fouda El Saeed , Attar Mohammed , Abdelaal Ahmed M. , Tantawi Ahmed El , Algethami Mohammed M , Bong David Andrew
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the commonest entrapment neuropathy. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy and validity of high resolution musculoskeletal ultrasound (US) in the diagnosis of CTS in the Saudi population.
Methods: Sixty patients were diagnosed clinically to have CTS involving 89 wrists that were confirmed by neurophysiologic studies. Each affected wrist was characterized as idiopathic or associated with either diabetes mellitus or hypothyroidism and were assigned a severity grade based on results of neurophysiologic studies. Seventy-six healthy wrists from fifty age, sex and BMI matched healthy subjects were included in the control group . High resolution ultrasound (US) was performed to assess median nerve cross sectional area distal (CSAd) at the entry to the carpal tunnel and proximally (CSAp) at the level of pronator quadratus muscle with a further calculation of their difference (ΔCSA) and their mean average or CSAd+CSAp/2 (CSApd) .
Results: There was a significant difference between both groups regarding mean ±SD of CSAd, CSAp, ∆CSA, and CSApd (p = 0.0001). A positive significant correlation was also found between the CSAd, ∆ CSA and the CSApd measurements with neurophysiologic severity grade of CTS (P=0.001). A ∆CSA threshold of 2.5 mm 2 showed the highest sensitivity and specificity to diagnose CTS in Saudis.
Conclusion
High resolution ultrasound is a valid and accurate diagnostic modality in carpal tunnel syndrome and correlated to CTS severity. A ∆CSA greater than 2.5 mm 2 is considered a valid diagnostic value for CTS in our Saudi population. CTS in our patients with diabetes tend to have greater median nerve US measurement values.
Does long-term recreational gymnastics prevent injurious falls in older women? A prospective 20-year follow-up
Authors: Uusi-Rasi Kirsti , Karinkanta Saija , Kannus Pekka , Tokola Kari , Sievänen Harri
Published: December 2019

Background: Exercise interventions focused on balance and strength training have been shown to be effective for falls prevention. The aim of this 20-year register-based follow-up was to examine whether long-term participation in recreational female gymnastics is associated with a lower risk of medically-attended injurious falls.Methods : Health care register data of 187 women (103 recreational gymnasts and 84 sedentary controls) from the original cohort of 243 women were assessed. The mean age (sd) at baseline was 62.8 (5.4) years and the mean follow-up time was 19.4 (2.7) years (range from 5.6 to 21.0 years). Injurious falls were scrutinized from medical records. An injurious fall was defined as an event in which falling was mentioned as a reason for making contact with the health-care professionals. Negative binomial regression was used to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRR) for injurious falls, and Cox-regression models for calculating hazard ratios (HR) for injured fallers with the control group as reference.Results Recreational gymnasts had about 30% less injurious falls compared to controls, the mean IRR (95% CI) being 0.71 (0.51 to 0.96). Regarding injured fallers, the HR was 0.73 (0.52 to 1.02) favoring the recreational gymnasts. There were no statistically significant between-group differences for fractures.Conclusion s: Long-term recreational gymnastics appears to reduce the risk of injurious falls in old age.
Pelvic and Bladder Catecholamine-Producing Tumors: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Petramala Luigi , Bisogni Valeria , Olmati Federica , Concistrè Antonio , Celi Monia , Saracino Vincenza , Iannucci Gino , Toma Giorgio De , Tarallo Maria Rita , Ciardi Antonio , Letizia Claudio
Published: December 2019

Background Although PGLs may arise at any site where physiologic paraganglionic tissue exists, pelvic origins are not frequent (about 2%), and the most common localization is the retroperitoneal space, whereas bladder PGLs account for less than 0.06% of all bladder neoplasms and less than 1% of all PGLs. Starting from the description of two interesting our cases, we wondered to review the literature on pelvic and bladder paragangliomas (PGLs) with the aim of illustrating clinical characteristics and current management, and enlightening the needed of a prompt diagnosis to avoid the onset of several complications.Methods We herein performed a brief review of the literature about pelvic PGLs in the PubMed library, conducted according to the PRISMA statement, including studies published from 1954 to 2019. We also discuss clinical presentation, morphologic appearance, and management of two cases of pelvic PGL, both of them characterized by a history of paroxysmal high blood pressure episodes uncontrolled by antihypertensive therapy associated with disabling symptoms, misdiagnosed for many years.Results Overall, we evaluated 108 case reports. The majority were females, presenting typical signs and symptoms, such as arterial hypertension (54.2%), hematuria (35.1%), and headache (33.6%). After treatment, the clinical and biochemical remission was showed in only 55% of analyzed cases.Conclusions For their singular localization, pelvic and bladder PGLs often might be misdiagnosed. The resulting delay in the proper treatment could be responsible for the relative low percentage of complete clinical and biochemical remission.
Identification of proteins in promastigote and amastigote-like stages of Leishmania tropica by a quantitative proteomic approach
Authors: Ashrafmansouri Marzieh , Amiri-Dashatan Nasrin , Ahmadi Nayebali
Published: December 2019

Background Leishmania parasites differentiate into the infective metacyclic form in the sand-fly and following is transformed to the amastigote in the host cells. The aims of this study were to identified differentially regulated proteins in the metacyclic and amastigote-like stages of L. tropica, and investigate their potential role in differentiation and pathogenesis molecular mechanisms.Methods The samples were cultured and identified by using PCR-RFLP technique. We employed We employed Sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion spectra mass spectrometry (SWATH-MS) to identify differentially regulated proteins between the metacyclic and amastigote-like stages of L. tropica.Results A total 176 and 155 distinct proteins were identified in metacyclic and axenic amastigote, respectively. Of these, 65 proteins were altered at least 2 folds. Proteins that were up- or down-regulated included energy production, lipid and amino acid metabolism, heat shock proteins, mRNA processing proteins, glycolytic and translational activity proteins. Several enriched GO terms were identified via biological process analyses, which “metabolic process” (GO: 0044281, P-Value: 6.52e-5), and “translation” (GO: 0006412, p-value: 5.01e-14) were disclosed as top category in up and down-regulated proteins, respectively. Also, the KEGG analysis indicated “metabolic pathways” and “ribosome” term as the top pathways in up and down-regulated proteins, respectively.Conclusions This study provides the first quantitative analysis of protein expression during differentiation from metacyclic to amastigote-like of L. tropica. In conclusion, anabolic pathways were down-regulated, whereas catabolic pathways were up-regulated during L. tropica differentiation in order to parasite survival in host macrophages, in which these changes can be used as novel potential targets for the infection management.
Health inequalities in Latin America and the Caribbean: a sample of 182 596 workers from 15 countries.
Authors: Silva-Peñaherrera Michael S , Lopez-Ruiz María , Merino-Salazar Pamela , Gómez-García Antonio Ramón , Benavides Fernando G.
Published: December 2019

Background: Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is the world’s most inequitable region. The full scale of social inequalities in health has been hidden by the lack of reliable data. This study aimed to measure and compare health inequalities in the working population within and between 15 countries of LAC. Methods: A sample of 182 596 workers over 17 years old was drawn from the most recent national surveys of working conditions or health in 15 LAC countries. Poor self-perceived health (P-SPH) was used as a health indicator, and age, education level, and occupational category as inequality stratifiers. We calculated four measures: absolute and relative population-attributable risks, the Kuznets and weighted Keppel indexes. Results: P-SPH prevalence ranged from 9% in men from Uruguay to 50% in women from Nicaragua. It was higher in women than in men in most countries. A clear gradient was shown, in which young people in non-manual skilled jobs and high education had the lowest prevalence. Nearly 42% of cases that reported P-SPH among men and 36% among women could be avoided if all the groups received a higher level of education. Also, approximately 35% of P-SPH reported by men and 30% by women could be avoided if they all shared the working and employment conditions of non-manual skilled jobs. Conclusions: We found that land borders generate more occupational health inequality than any other variable, with urgent intervention needed in countries where prevalence of poor self-perceived health is high. Monitoring of occupational health inequity is essential to inform public policies.
"For better for worse is not easy’’, Challenges and Needs of Family Caregivers of Dementia Patients Seeking Care in Kumasi: A qualitative study
Authors: Gyimah Akwasi Adjei , Appiah-Brempong Emmanuel , Okyere Paul , Peprah Prince , Agyemang-Duah Williams , Gyamfi Naomi , Anokye Reindolf , Adade Richard , Ampratwum Joseph
Published: December 2019

Background: The challenges and needs of family caregivers of dementia patients usually go unnoticed which could worsen the condition of both the caregivers and recipients in Ghana. The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore the challenges and needs of family caregivers of dementia patients who seek care at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi Metropolis of Ghana. Methods: With no predetermined sample size, 18 participants took part in the study. The study employed a phenomenological and an in-depth interview guide. The data were analysed using interpretive phenomenological framework. Results: Three main challenges of family caregivers were identified: economic challenges ( inability to buy drugs, limited income, high healthcare use charges, inability to work and lack of financial support), social challenges (lack of social participation, mockery and societal victimisation), and psychological challenges (stress, emotional trauma and inability to sleep). Three main needs of family caregivers were reported: physical needs (personal assistance, transportation assistance, physical attachment from spouse and inability to eat), societal needs (social gathering involvement and societal concerns) and psychological needs (free time to relax and faith assurance). Conclusion: The authors argue that there should be a rethinking of how caregiving is constructed in Ghana. We further add that the health and well-being of caregivers should be a paramount aspect of patient well-being in Ghana in line with the Ghana Mental Health Act. It is therefore essential for clinician to institute caregivers needs in their medical plan for mental patient’s recovery process.