bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gulf of Thailand 4-String Well Design Transformation Using MPD System – Cost Saving, Operational Challenges and Learnings
Authors: Dalgit Singh Harpreet Kaur , Sammat Essam , Kleawyothatis Thakornpol , Niracharopas Kittikun , Kiani Nassab Kazem
Published: August 2022

Gulf of Thailand (GoT) or Gulf of Siam is mainly offshore development gas wells in Thailand. Well C and well H were originally designed with GoT 4-string standard template. However, Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) solution was then selected to save one (1) casing string provided that the maximum expected formation pressure to be within the range of 1.46-1.50SG as per geological prognosis. Both wells were drilled to plan TD with 3-casing strings as planned to result in a cost-saving from the design transformation (4-strings to 3-strings) using the MPD system.

There is always a risk of lost circulation and ballooning in intermediate/high-pressure wells (Pore Pressure (PP) > 1.45SG) when drilling conventionally with 3-casing strings (instead of GoT 4-string standard design). Required high mud weight imposes an overbalance during drilling and tripping operations that exceed formation integrity at shallower depths below the 7" casing. MPD is a proven technology for maintaining Constant Bottom Hole Pressure (CBHP) that enables precise control on wellbore pressure to mitigate ballooning and kick/loss hazards, narrow margin drilling window, and formation pressure uncertainties. The 6-1/8" hole sections of both wells were drilled with the MPD technology to mitigate the loss of circulation and ballooning while drilling.

MPD system worked for this project to drill the wells to TD successfully according to the plan and without any major issue. The MPD solution enabled drilling with the lowest and safest underbalanced mud weight to allow a reduction in Bottom Hole Pressure (BHP) and consequently eliminated ballooning while drilling. Surface back pressure (SBP) on connections was increased (compared to the plan) based on connection gas reading caused by pore pressure uncertainties. MPD dynamic formation integrity test (DFIT) and static pore pressure tests (PPT) have established a baseline for heavy kill mud weight estimations and displacing before tripping out of the hole. Observations and learnings from well C confirmed the study’s preliminary conclusions that the 4-strings transformation is quite challenging for PP greater than 1.55SG, and 4-string transformation is not recommended if PP exceeds 1.60SG. The wells were completed with 3-casing strings however, no NPT related to well design and MPD was encountered. The technology was proven and allowed to drill the well with 3-strings design. The solution can save some cost in intermediate pressure wells (1.46-1.54SG PP), and it is proposed for the next trials with more focus on wellbore conditioning and tripping practices.
Unlock Regulatory Requirements for Drill Cuttings Waste Utilisation Pilot
Authors: Wattana Piyarat , Wondee Jutharat , Chonchirdsin Surasak
Published: August 2022

Drill cuttings waste was recycled into new use and pilot project to utilize drill cutting waste in road and construction application were carried out. This work describes strategy and best practice to engage regulator in order to unlock regulatory requirements for the pilot on drill cutting waste utilization.

Characterization of drill cuttings waste was carried out and its regulatory requirements as indicated in waste management plan and EIA were investigated in parallel to the study on technical feasibility to utilize drill cuttings waste. Equally important is investigation on the rule and regulation relevant to areas and/or industries that the drill cuttings waste will be used for. These regulatory requirements must be clearly identified in an early stage of the pilot project as it will indicate necessary analytical tests to be carried out and will provide information for designing of an environmental impact assessment and monitoring program.

Drill cuttings waste is classified into two groups based on type of drilling mud used. Drill cuttings from upper section of well contaminated with water-based mud, called top-hole drill cuttings, is classified as non-hazardous waste while drill cuttings from lower section of well contaminated with synthetic-based mud, called bottom-hole drill cuttings, is classified as hazardous-minor waste. Physical properties of the drill cuttings waste such as pH, conductivity, salinity, chemical properties on chloride contents as well as heavy metal contents must be analyzed and identified to be within the standard limit. These analytical results provide necessary technical information for regulator to make decision based upon in order to support the drill cuttings waste utilization pilot. Based on characteristic of road usage and potential wear and tear of the pilot recycled drill cuttings road, environmental impact assessment and monitoring program on soil, surface water, and subsurface water on areas closed to the pilot site were performed prior and after construction of the pilot road. This environmental impact assessment and monitoring program provides track record of technical analytical data which is essential supporting information for regulator's consideration and endorsement on the future modification of EIA's regulatory requirements.

This work demonstrates that good understanding on classification of the drill cuttings waste, its regulatory requirements, characteristic of application the drill cuttings waste will be used for, and its relevant legislations are essential. This information indicates necessary technical analyses required to be performed in order to obtain important technical data to unlock regulatory requirements. Drill cuttings waste utilization not only save waste management cost, but also reduce environmental footprint. This approach can be applied to utilization of other type of waste as well.
The oviposition cue indole inhibits animal-host attraction in Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes
Authors: Dekel Amir , Sar-Shalom Evyatar , Vainer Yuri , Yakir Esther , Bohbot Jonathan D.
Published: August 2022

Background
Mosquitoes represent a major source of disease transmission worldwide. They possess the uncanny ability to discriminate between different ecological resources, including nectar sources, animal-hosts, and oviposition sites, a feature mediated by their exquisite olfactory system. Insect repellents such as N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide, also called DEET, have been shown to activate and inhibit mosquito odorant receptors, resulting in behavioral modulation. This and other repellents available for personal protection against mosquitoes are topically applied on the skin and operate at a short range. In our search for potential long-range inhibitors of human-host attractants, we have hypothesized that the shared chemical similarities between indole and DEET may confer the former the ability to block odorant receptor function and inhibit human-host attraction.
Methods
We used the two-electrode voltage clamp of Xenopus laevis oocytes as a pharmacological platform, to compare the pharmacological effect of commercially-available insect repellents and indole on the Aedes aegypti (R)-1-octen-3-ol receptor OR8, a receptor involved in the decision of female mosquitoes to identify human hosts. We conducted an arm-in-a-cage and a wind-tunnel bioassays to explore the effect of indole on human-host seeking female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
Results
We provide evidence that indole inhibits the Aedes aegypti (R)-1-octen-3-ol receptor OR8, a receptor involved in the decision of female mosquitoes to identify human hosts. In our arm-in-a-cage assay, one molar DEET reduced mosquito visits on average by 69.3% while the same indole concentration achieved 97.8% inhibition. This effect of indole on flight visits was dose-dependent and disappeared at one micromolar. In our long-range bioassay, indole elicited on average 27.5% lower speed, 42.3% lower upwind velocity and 30.4% higher tortuosity compared to our synthetic blend.
Conclusions
Indole significantly inhibits OR8 activation by (R)-1-octen-3-ol, mosquito visits to a human hand, and long-range human-host seeking. The volatility of indole may be leveraged to develop a novel insect repellent in the context of personal mosquito.
Evaluation of Batch and Equilibrium Cr 6+ adsorption on Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles via isothermal and kinetic studies
Authors: Singh Rimmy , Bhateria Rachna
Published: August 2022

Since many centuries, we have progressively tracked our capacities in the field of water contamination. An intense increase in heavy metals have led to the problems needing priority concerns. This experimental work aims to investigate the adsorption of Cr6+ ions onto magnetite nanoparticles. The Fe3O4 nanoparticles were synthesized by one-step chemical reduction method and characterized by using High Resolution Transmission Electron Spectroscopy (HRTEM), Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) to evaluate the details about nanoparticles. HRTEM analysis determined the average size of 42.90 nm and spherical morphology of the nanoparticles. To study the effect of different process variables such as concentration of Cr6+ ions (10–60 mgL− 1), pH (1–9), temperature (15–40°C), Fe3O4 NPs dose (10–80 mg) and contact time (15–60 minutes) and to optimized them, conventional batch experimental method was used. Various models were applied to the obtained data to mathematically conclude it. Maximum adsorption capacity (0.15 mg g− 1) was calculated by Langmuir model. Additionally, Freundlich, Temkin and D-R models were also interpreted to find the best fit. In this study, Temkin model was found the best fit with a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.99. However, Pseudo second order describes the adsorption kinetics and thermodynamic study concluded the spontaneity and exothermic nature of the process. The recovered nanoparticles were used 3 times to find the regeneration capacity. Hence, the results demonstrates that Fe3O4 nanoparticles can be the potential material for heavy metal removal from wastewater and additional modifications can enhance their efficiency for further applications.
Malnutrition Screening and Treatment in Pediatric Oncology: A systematic review
Authors: Franke Jessica , Bishop Chris , Runco Daniel V.
Published: August 2022

Background
Malnutrition and cachexia during pediatric cancer treatment worsen toxicity and quality-of-life. Clinical practice varies with lack of standard malnutrition definition and nutrition interventions. This systematic review highlights available malnutrition screening and intervention data in childhood cancer and the need for standardizing assessment and treatment.
Methods
Ovid Medline, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library were searched for studies containing malnutrition as the primary outcome with anthropometric, radiographic, or biochemical measurements. Secondary outcomes included validated nutritional assessment or screening tools. Two authors reviewed full manuscripts for inclusion. Narrative analysis was chosen over statistical analysis due to study heterogeneity.
Results
The search yielded 234 articles and 17 articles identified from external sources. Nine met inclusion criteria with six nutritional intervention studies (examining appetite stimulants, nutrition supplementation, and proactive feeding tubes) and three nutritional screening studies (algorithms or nutrition support teams) each with variable measures and outcomes. Both laboratory evaluations (albumin, prealbumin, total protein) and body measurement (weight loss, mid-upper arm circumference) were used. Studies demonstrated improved weight, without difference between formula or appetite stimulant used. Screening studies yielded mixed results on preventing weight loss, weight gain, and survival.
Conclusion
Our review demonstrated a paucity of evidence for malnutrition screening and intervention in pediatric cancer treatment. While a variety of malnutrition outcomes, interventions, and screening tools exist, nutritional interventions increased weight and decreased complications. Screening tools decreased malnutrition risk and may improve weight gain. Potential age- and disease-specific nutritional benefits and toxicities also exist, further highlighting the benefit of standardizing malnutrition definitions, screening, and interventions.
Performance of Distance Relaying Scheme under High Penetration of RES
Authors: Pradhan Janmejaya , Singh Manohar
Published: August 2022

The operation of a distance relay is a function of source impedance and fault parameters. The performance of a distance relay is quite stable when used for the protection of a strong power system network where the fault current contribution is dominated by synchronous machines. However, their performance is affected when the synchronous machine is replaced by high internal impedance-based generation as seen in the case of renewable energy source (RES) based generating units like solar and wind. The RES results in an observable increase in source to impedance ratio (SIR) and significantly affects the operating performance of a distance relay. The dynamic change in infeed in the RES system leads to overreach and under-reach problems. The dynamic nature of RES arises revision in the reach settings of the distance relay placed in the RES integrated network. This problem is stimulated for a model transmission system in the real-time digital simulator with hardware in loop simulation installed at Central Power Research Institute Bangalore, India. The performance of the relay is studied for high SIR, infeed variation, and load encroachment. Observation and simulation results recommend the rising requirement of an adaptive distance relaying protection scheme that can dynamically manage the relay zone setting as per the operation network configurations.
Clinical feasibility and acceptability study of an online mindfulness and self-compassion integrated psychoeducation program for eczema in adults
Authors: Kishimoto Sanae , Shimizu Ryosuke , Watanabe Norio , Yamamoto Yosuke , Germer Christopher , Tada Masafumi , Sahker Ethan , Furukawa Toshi A.
Published: August 2022

ObjectiveAlthough mindfulness and self-compassion programs have been applied in clinical settings, no studies have reported their benefits for atopic dermatitis (AD). The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of an online group format of 8 weekly 90-minute sessions of a mindfulness and self-compassion program for adults with AD.ResultsIn this single-arm, open label pre-post comparison study design, 15 adults (10 women; mean age, 38.3 ± 8.98 years) completed the intervention and assessment. The primary outcome was disease-specific quality of life (QOL) (Dermatology Life Quality Index and Skindex-16) at the 20-week follow-up. The secondary outcomes were other self-reported questionnaires, and descriptive feedback of the program. Assessments were conducted at baseline, mid-treatment, post-intervention, and at follow-up. Overall, there were no significant improvements. However, of the four participants whose QOL was largely impacted due to AD, the scores improved significantly, with minimal clinically important difference or greater change. All participants were satisfied with the program. This program could benefit adults with AD by improving QOL. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to elucidate the efficacy of the program. This study has been registered at the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (ID: UMIN000030484).
The use of 3D-ceramic block graft compared with autogenous block graft for rehabilitation of the atrophic maxilla: a randomized controlled clinical trial.
Authors: Malzoni Carolina Mendonça de Almeida , Gonçalves Victor , Possari Juliana , Marcantonio Elcio
Published: August 2022

Background: Dental implant placement may require a bone graft for vertical and horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation. Due to its osteoconduction, osteoinductive, and osteogenesis, autogenous bone graft characteristics are considered the standard gold treatment. However, autografts can promote postoperative morbidity and implicate difficulties concerning the graft adaptation to the recipient's bone since it can eventually avoid gaps. To overcome these issues, this trial will compare the performance of Plenum® Oss 3Dβ fit, an alloplastic graft, and a 3D-printed patient-specific graft based on β-tricalcium phosphate to the autograft procedure.Methods: This is a split-mouth randomized clinical study designed to evaluate the performance of personalized (patient-specific) bioceramic bone grafts (Plenum® Oss 3Dβ fit) for bone augmentation of the atrophic anterior maxilla in comparison to the autogenous bone graft. We hypothesize that the gain and maintenance of the grafted area volume and the quality of the newly formed bone tissue after eight months postoperative with the synthetic patient-specific graft will be superior to the autogenous bone graft. To assess the quantity and the quality of bone neoformation, volumetric and histological analyses will be performed.Discussion: The fabrication of medical devices by additive manufacturing presents advantages over conventional manufacturing processes, mostly related to the precision of geometry and anatomy. Additionally, the osteoconductive proprieties of β-tricalcium phosphate enable this synthetic bone substitute as an alternative solution over autogenous graft for bone defect reconstruction. Thus, patient-specific bone grafts can potentially improve patient satisfaction, reducing the need for autogenous bone grafts, consequently avoiding implications related to this type of treatment, such as patient morbidity.Trial registration: This study is registered in REBEC (Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos): RBR-76wmm3q; UTN: U1111-1272-7773. Registration date: 14 September 2021.
GNR Based Reconfigurable Tapered Vivaldi Antenna for THz band Applications
Authors: Kumar Kushwaha Ritesh
Published: August 2022

This article presents a novel high gain Tapered Vivaldi antenna (TVA) utilizing Graphene Nano Ribbon (GNR) for the Terahertz band applications. The proposed design based on substrate extension technique and graphene hybrid metal structure to improve the radiation characteristics. It also derives the Electric and Magnetic field of graphene is systematically using FDTD numerical modeling. The reconfigurability properties of antenna can be achieved by changing the chemical potential. The result offers a minimum return loss of -58.68 dB, an impedance bandwidth of 298.84 GHz, a peak gain of 12.31 dBi, peak directivity of 13.1 dBi, and radiation efficiency of 83.63%. The investigated results reveal the better results within the preferred frequency band. Therefore, the designed antenna can be useful for various THz applications.
Regulation of recurrent spontaneous abortion by macrophage polarization through the CTRP6/PPAR-γ/NF-κB pathway and reprogramming glycolysis
Authors: yang jing , yan sisi , ding jilin , wang zehao , li jianan , zhang yi , zhang yan
Published: August 2022

The polarization of macrophages is closely related to immune homeostasis and maternal-fetal immune tolerance, and plays indispensable roles in the pathogenesis of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). The role of aberrant macrophage polarization in RSA has been explored by our and others’ studies; however, the regulatory factors that participate in macrophage polarization during pregnancy have not been fully elucidated. We previously confirmed the proinflammatory effect of C1q and tumor necrosis factor-related protein 6 (CTRP6) in polycystic ovarian syndrome and the regulatory effect of CTRP6 on inflammatory factors in macrophages has been demonstrated. Herein, we aimed to investigate whether CTRP6 participates in the development of RSA by regulating macrophage polarization. Results from patients’ decidual samples indicated that CTRP6 was elevated in RSA patients by immunohistochemical and western blot analyses, and immunofluorescence analysis indicated that the expression of CTRP6 was positively correlated with CD86+ macrophages in decidual tissues. In vitro experiments indicated that CTRP6 could facilitate M1 macrophage activation and finally have an impact on the invasion and migration ability of trophoblasts. Mechanistically, CTRP6 could mediate macrophage polarization through interacting with PPAR-γ and regulating PPAR-γ/NF-κB pathway, which was associated with the activation of glycolysis. In addition to silencing CTRP6, PPAR-γ agonist (GW1929) inhibited the M1 polarization of macrophages and rescued embryo absorption in vivo. Taken together, these results demonstrate that CTRP6/PPAR-γ/NF-κB pathway may participate in M1 macrophage polarization through regulating reprogramming glycolysis, thus playing an important role in the pathogenesis of RSA.
Polymer Design via SHAP and Bayesian Machine Learning Optimizes pDNA and CRISPR Ribonucleoprotein Delivery
Authors: Dalal Rishad , Leyden Michael , Oviedo Felipe , Reineke Theresa
Published: August 2022

We present the facile synthesis of a clickable polymer library with systematic variations in length, binary composition, pKa, and hydrophobicity (clogP) to optimize intracellular pDNA and CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) performance. We couple physiochemical characterization and machine learning to interpret quantitative structure-property relationships within the combinatorial design space. For the first time, we reveal unexpected disparate design parameters for nucleic acid carriers; via explainable machine learning on 432 formulations, we discover that lower polymer pKa and higher percentages of benzimidazole ethanethiol enhance pDNA delivery, yet polymer length and captamine cation identity improve RNP delivery. Closed-loop Bayesian optimization of 552 formulation ratios further enhances in vitro performance. The top three polymers yield higher signal and stable transgene expression over 20-days in vivo, and a 1.7-fold enhancement over controls. Our facile coupling of synthesis, characterization, and machine analysis provide powerful tools to quantitate performance parameters accelerating next generation vehicles for nucleic acid medicines.
Super-selective and staged glue embolization for labral AVMs using ultra-thin microcatheters: report of two cases
Authors: Sawano Miyuki , Tanoue Shuichi , Tanaka Norimitsu , Koganemaru Masamichi , Kuhara Asako , Kugiyama Tomoko , Shinjyo Yasumoto , Abe Toshi
Published: August 2022

Background: Treating arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is challenging because of the high recurrence rate and because incomplete resection or embolization can induce aggressive growth. However, aThe standard strategy is not fully established. Although transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) is currently almost always part of the treatment, in many cases, single treatment is not curative and only palliative. Additionally, the success and complication rates associated with TAE alone are unclear, and there has been limited study of staged TAE for facial AVMs. Furthermore, few reports have described the details of the procedure.Case-presentation: We report two cases of AVM of the upper lip in patients who were successfully treated by staged super-selective TAE at several-month intervals using ultra-thin microcatheters and n-butyl-2-2cyanacrylate.Conclusion: Staged and super-selective TAE may prevent complications and provide high curability and might be a useful treatment in cases of AVM.
Ionization instability and turbulence in the plume of sub-ampere hollow cathodes with applied magnetic field
Authors: Potrivitu George-Cristian , Xu Shuyan
Published: August 2022

When operated with a Hall thruster, either centrally or externally mounted, cathode discharge occurs in a magnetic field environment. Therefore, it is important to assess the influence of the magnetic field on the standalone operation of a hollow cathode to better predict device behavior when coupled with a Hall thruster. This study focuses on the influence of an applied axial magnetic field on main oscillatory phenomena in the plume of a Kr-fed sub-ampere hollow cathode. A probe array consisting of two cylindrical Langmuir probes and an emissive probe was used to assess changes in the plasma parameters and collected ion saturation current as the magnetic field strength was increased. The electron transport along the cathode-anode space was analyzed in terms of total electron collision frequency. It was shown that a higher magnetic field strength induces larger plasma densities and lower electron temperatures. Both the ionization instability and ion acoustic turbulence (IAT) energy diminished with higher magnetic field strengths when the cathode operated in plume mode before the magnetic field was applied. The total electron collision frequency as well as its main contributor, the anomalous collision frequency due to IAT, decreased at higher field strengths. Higher magnetic field strengths were shown to damp the ionization instability. The results included in this communication are the first characterization of the response
Tunable interlayer excitons and switchable interlayer trions via dynamic near-field cavity
Authors: Park Kyoung-Duck , Koo Yeonjeong , Lee Hyeongwoo , Ivanova Tatiana , Kefayati Ali , Perebeinos Vasili , Khestanova Ekaterina , Kravtsov Vasily
Published: August 2022

Emerging photo-induced excitonic processes in transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) heterobilayers, e.g., interplay of intra- and inter-layer excitons and conversion of excitons to trions, allow new opportunities for ultrathin hybrid photonic devices. However, with the associated large degree of spatial heterogeneity, understanding and controlling their complex competing interactions in TMD heterobilayers at the nanoscale remains a challenge. Here, we present an all-round dynamic control of interlayer-excitons and -trions in a WSe2/Mo0.5W0.5Se2 heterobilayer using multifunctional tip-enhanced photoluminescence (TEPL) spectroscopy with < 20 nm spatial resolution. Specifically, we demonstrate the bandgap tunable interlayer excitons and the dynamic interconversion between interlayer-trions and -excitons, through the combinational tip-induced engineering of GPa-scale pressure and plasmonic hot electron injection, with simultaneous spectroscopic TEPL measurements. This unique nano-opto-electro-mechanical control approach provides new strategies for developing versatile nano-excitonic/trionic devices using TMD heterobilayers.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and Honey Rose case on hospital attendances of patients suspected to have papilloedema
Authors: McNicholl Catherine , Gill Arran , Harrison Rhys , Atan Denize
Published: August 2022

OBJECTIVETo measure the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and Honey Rose case on hospital attendances of patients with suspected papilloedema METHODSRetrospective observational study of patients attending a specialist eye hospital in Bristol for investigation of papilloedema and/or headache. Exposures were the first lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic in England in 2020 and the widespread media coverage of the Honey Rose case in 2016. Outcomes were the number and proportion of true positive and false positive referrals of patients with suspected papilloedema and/or headache before and after the exposures.RESULTSHospital attendances within the neuro-ophthalmology service in Bristol had increased 5-6 times following the Honey Rose case and was associated with an increase in false positive referrals for suspected papilloedema from 33.3% in 2015 to 60.9% in 2016. Hospital attendances fell during the first COVID-19 lockdown, predominantly affecting false negative referrals for suspected papilloedema (78.1% before, 64.3% during, and 79.7% after lockdown) of which 60.1% had completely normal optic discs.CONCLUSIONSOphthalmology is the now the busiest outpatient medical specialty in the UK, in part, due to changes to undergraduate medical training and the lower threshold for hospital eye service referrals since Honey Rose and the introduction of OCT to optician practices. Advances in digital technology that were accelerated by the pandemic might help to improve communication between primary and secondary care and the diagnostic accuracy of referrals for suspected papilloedema to avoid unnecessary hospital appointments and costly false positive diagnostic cascades.
Comparison between de novo and metachronous metastatic breast cancer: the presence of a primary tumour is not the only difference - a Dutch population based study from 2008-2018.
Authors: de Maar Josanne Sophia , Luyendijk Marianne , Suelmann Britt B. M. , Kruijssen Dave E.W. van der , Elias Sjoerd G. , Siesling Sabine , Wall Elsken van der
Published: August 2022

PurposeThe aim of this study was to compare characteristics and survival of patients withde novoand metachronous metastatic breast cancer.MethodsData of patients with metastatic breast cancer were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Patients were categorized as havingde novometastatic breast cancer (n=8,656) if they had distant metastases at initial presentation, or metachronous metastatic disease (n= 2,374) in case they developed metastases within 5 or 10 years after initial breast cancer diagnosis. Clinicopathological characteristics and treatments of these two groups were compared, after which multiple imputation was performed to account for missing data. Overall survival was compared for patients treated with systemic therapy in the metastatic setting, using Kaplan Meier curves and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models. The hazard ratio for overall survival ofde novoversus metachronous metastases was assessed accounting for time-varying effects.ResultsCompared to metachronous patients, patients with denovometastatic breast cancer were more likely to be ≥70 years, to have invasive lobular carcinoma, clinical T3 or T4 tumours, loco-regional lymphnode metastases, HER2 positivity, bone only disease and to have received systemic therapy in the metastatic setting. They were less likely to have triple negative tumours and liver or brain metastases. Patients withde novometastases survived longer (median 34.7 months) than patients with metachronous metastases (median 24.3 months) and the hazard ratio (0.75) varied over time.ConclusionsDifferences in clinicopathological characteristics and survival betweende novoand metachronous metastatic breast cancer highlight that these are distinct patients groups.
Impacts of bisphenol A on growth and reproductive traits of submerged macrophyte Vallisneria natans
Authors: Han Huiying , Wu Hang , Zhi Yongwei , Zhou Jingzhe , Li Wei , Yuan Longyi , Cao Yu
Published: August 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA) is considered a contaminant of emerging concern and interferes with the normal activities of living organisms. The toxicity of BPA is evident in animals, while there have been relatively few studies focused on the effects of this chemical on plants especially how submerged macrophytes respond to low BPA concentrations is still unclear. In the present study, effects of low BPA loading (targeting at 0.01, 0.1 and 1 mg/L) on the growth and reproductive traits of the dioecious annual submerged macrophyte Vallisneria natans were assessed through a five-month experiments. The results showed that BPA inhibited the elongation of V. natans leaves but resulted in an increase in leaf number and ramet number under the highest BPA loading treatment (targeting at 1 mg/L). At the highest BPA loading treatment, female individuals of V. natans allocated less mass for ramet than male ones, showing a clear sexual dimorphism. No significant differences in reproductive traits and total biomass of the V. natans were found between different BPA loading treatments and the control, indicating that BPA did not induce direct toxic effects on the growth and reproductive traits of V. natans. In summary, V. natans tolerated low BPA concentrations by trade-offs between ramet (leaf) number and leaf elongation and maintained a stable reproduction output probably based on sexual dimorphism.
Preliminary study on brain resting-state networks and cognitive impairments of patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome
Authors: He Yaqing , Shen Junkang , Wang Xiang , Wu Qiaozhen , Liu Jiacheng , Ji Yiding
Published: August 2022

Purpose To investigate functional changes in brain resting-state networks (RSNs) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and their correlations with sleep breathing disorders and neurocognitive performance.Methods In this study, 18 OSAHS patients and 18 matched healthy controls underwent neurocognitive assessment and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Group-level independent component analysis (ICA) and statistical analyses were used to explore between-group differences in RSNs and the relationship between functional changes in RSNs, sleep breathing disorders and neurocognitive performance.Results The OSAHS patients performed worse on neuropsychological tests than the healthy controls. Eight RSNs were identified, and between-group analyses showed that OSAHS patients displayed significantly decreased functional connectivity in the bilateral posterior cingulate gyri (PCC) within the default mode network (DMN), the right middle frontal gyrus (MFG) within the dorsal attention network (DAN), and the left superior temporal gyrus (STG) within the ventral attention network (VAN), and increased functional connectivity in the right superior frontal gyrus (SFG) within the salience network (SN). Further correlation analyses revealed that the average ICA z-scores in the bilateral PCC and right MFG were correlated with sleep breathing disorders or neurocognitive performance.Conclusion Our findings demonstrate that the DMN, SN, DAN, and VAN are impaired during the resting state and are associated with decreased functionally distinct aspects of cognition in patients with OSAHS. Moreover, the intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation caused by OSAHS are likely to be the main influencing factors.
In vitro propagation and long-term observation of acclimated plants in endangered tree fern Alsophila costularis
Authors: Pu Yanfei , Song Qixuan , Wang Guoxian , Wu Lifang , Yang Chunmei , Yu Rongpei
Published: August 2022

Alsophila costularis Barker (Cyathea costularis), an endangered tree fern with tree-like erect stem, attracts gardening enthusiasts as a special ornamental plant. In vitro propagation can be advantageous for germplasm conservation and commercial application of A. costularis. Here, we described in vitro propagation of A. costularis via spore culture and green globular bodies (GGBs) system, as well as the long-term observation of acclimated plants regenerated from GGBs. In spore culture, the low concentration of mineral salt (1/8 MS) was beneficial for sporophyte formation on gametophytes, but sporophytes per conical flask was only 8 plantlets. In GGB system, cytokinin thidiazuron (TDZ) was essential for GGB induction and multiplication. The maximum of GGB induction frequency (93.33%) was obtained on 1/2MS medium with 2.0 mg/l TDZ by using juvenile sporophytes as explants, and the same medium was optimal for GGB multiplication. 1/4 MS supplemented with 0.1% (w/v) activated carbon (AC) was appropriate for plantlet regeneration from GGB, GGB differentiation frequency was 100%, and 42.40 plantlets could be regenerated from one piece of GGBs. The maximum of plantlet height (4.64 cm) was obtained on 1/2 MS with 0.1% (w/v) AC. After 6 years of acclimatization cultivation for plantlets regenerated from GGBs, plants in the plastic pots with diameter of 60 cm showed the excellent vegetative and reproductive growth, and the mature spores of these plants could produce sporophytes. Morphological and histological observation demonstrated that A. costularis GGBs was a green structure consisting of multiple single GGBs with hair-like structures. One single GGB could develop into one plantlet.
The effect of aloe vera syrup on the components of metabolic syndrome in patients with bipolar disorder type 1
Authors: Mirjalili Fatemeh , Feizi Awat , Bidaki Reza , Kafeshani Marzieh
Published: August 2022

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine the effect of aloe vera syrup on the indicators of metabolic syndrome, anthropometric indices and lipid profile in patients with bipolar disorder type 1.MethodsThis randomized controlled trial was performed on 68 bipolar patients with metabolic syndrome. Patients received aloe vera or placebo syrups for 12 weeks. Assessment of blood pressure, biochemical and anthropometric indices, and physical activity were performed before and after the intervention. Dietary intakes were assessed three times.ResultsThere was no significant difference between groups in most of the baseline characteristics (P > 0.05). Results showed that aloe vera syrup only decreased aspartate aminotransferase significantly (P = 0.02) and had no significant effect on the indicators of metabolic syndrome (P > 0.05), but placebo syrup increased weight and body mass index and decrease diastolic blood pressure significantly (P = 0.006, P = 0.004, P = 0.04 respectively). Aloe vera syrup did not show significant effects on indices compared with placebo (P > 0.05).ConclusionThis clinical trial showed that aloe vera syrup had no significant effect on indicators of metabolic syndrome, anthropometric indices, and lipid profile.Clinical trial registration in Iranian Registry of Clinical TrialsIRCT registration number: IRCT20200429047235N1 (First registration date: 2020-06-06).
A Soft Sensing Method of Billet Surface Temperature Based on ILGSSA-LSSVM
Authors: LIU Jun , Yang Luying , FANG Jiangxiong , Hou Qingming , Yang Feng
Published: August 2022

It is difficult to measure the surface temperature of continuous casting billet, which results in the lack of important feedback parameters for further scientific control of billet quality. This paper proposes a sparrow search algorithm(SSA) to optimize the least square support vector machine(LSSVM) model for surface temperature prediction of billet, which is improved by Logistic chaotic mapping and Golden sine algorithm (Improve Logistic Golden Sine Sparrow Search Algorithm LSSVM, ILGSSA-LSSVM). Based on LSSVM, the optimal solution of sparrow population is improved by improved Logistic chaos mapping and Golden sine algorithm as the value of penalty factor \(\gamma\)and kernel parameter\(\sigma\). Global optimization method is adopted to find the optimal parameter combination, which reduces the influence of blindly determining parameters on the prediction accuracy. The results show that the maximum error of ILGSA-LSSVM soft Sensing model is 3.85733℃, the minimum error is 0.0174℃, and the average error is 0.05805℃. The performance of ILGSA-LSSVM soft Sensing model is better than that of traditional least square support vector machine, BP neural network and gray Wolf optimized least square support vector machine.
Cyclohexanecarboxylic acid degradation with simultaneous nitrate removal by Marinobacter sp. SJ18
Authors: Zan Shuaijun , Wang Jing , Fan Jingfeng , Jin Yuan , Li Zelong , Du Miaomiao
Published: August 2022

Naphthenic acid (NA), a new kind of toxic pollutants, is labeled as the potential threat to human health. However, the transformations of NAs in marine environments are still unclear. In this study, the characteristics and pathways of cyclohexylcarboxylic acid (CHCA) biodegradation were explored in the presence of nitrate. Results showed that CHCA was completely degraded with pseudo-first-order kinetic reaction under aerobic and anaerobic conditions, accompanied by nitrate removal rates exceeding 70%, which was positively correlated with CHCA degradation(P<0.05). Degradation pathways of CHCA were proposed the cyclohexane was dehydrogenated to form cyclohexene, then ring-opened to generated fatty acid by dioxygenase under aerobic conditions, yet the cyclohexene was cleaved through β-oxidations under anaerobic condition. Whole genome analysis indicated that nitrate was removed via assimilation and dissimilation pathways and denitrification pathways under aerobic and anaerobic conditions, respectively. This study provides a basis for the combined pollution of NA and nitrate in marine environments.
Root morphological differences in tree and grass species from a Southern African savanna
Authors: Gajjar Niki Nitin , Nesmith Julienne E , Holdo Ricardo M.
Published: August 2022

Purpose Soil moisture availability is a key driver of the relative abundance of trees and grasses in savannas. Fine root morphology influences water acquisition and transport, yet differences in fine root traits between trees and grasses have not been comprehensively quantified across an entire suite of coexisting tree and grass species. Methods We grew individuals of 21 tree and 18 grass species from a Lowveld savanna ecosystem in South Africa under greenhouse conditions and characterized six root traits: root diameter, branching intensity, specific root length, root length to leaf area ratio, distal to total root length ratio, and root length to plant mass ratio. We conducted a PCA to evaluate whether some morphological root traits can act as predictive traits for other, more difficult to measure traits. Results We found strong differences between trees and grasses across all six root morphological traits, particularly root diameter and branching intensity. Trees had thicker roots than grasses, while grasses had higher specific root length, greater branching intensity, a greater relative investment in distal roots, and a higher ratio of root length to plant mass than trees. Despite strong species-level effects on trait values, we found little evidence of phylogenetic signals in trait values for either trees or grasses. Conclusion We found strong evidence of significant morphological differences among savanna trees and grasses. Our results are consistent with the observation that grasses can outperform trees when competing directly for belowground resources.
Merkel cell carcinoma: A Forty-year experience at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
Authors: Wang Annie J , McCann Brendan , Soon William , Ieso Paolo B , Bressel Mathias , Hui Andrew , Chua Margaret , Kok David
Published: August 2022

Background Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but highly aggressive neuroendocrine skin malignancy, with Australia having the highest reported incidence in the world. There is currently a lack of consensus regarding optimal management approach.MethodsThis was a retrospective audit conducted by reviewing existing medical records of MCC patients presenting to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (PMCC) between 1980 and 2018. The primary endpoint was locoregional control. The secondary endpoints were distant recurrence, disease-free survival and overall survival.Results: A total of 533 patients were identified. The estimated 5-year OS and DFS were 46% (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 41 - 51%) and 34% (95% CI 30 - 39%) respectively. Older age at diagnosis (hazard ratio [HR] per year 1.07 95% CI 1.06 - 1.09; p<0.001), and larger primary tumour diameter (HR 1.22 95% CI 1.09 – 1.37; p = 0.001) were associated with worse OS on multivariable analysis. Positive or negative histopathological margin status was not associated with OS or DFS in patients treated with post-operative radiotherapy. Conclusions In our study, about a third of patients developed locoregional recurrence and/or distal recurrence, and there appears to be no change over the last four decades. If treated with adjuvant radiotherapy, there is no difference in OS or DFS with positive surgical margins. Findings should influence future guidelines.
A new surgical technique for short bowel syndrome
Authors: Saeki Isamu , Kurihara Sho , Kojima Masato , Ohge Hiroki , Takahashi Shinya , Hiyama Eiso
Published: August 2022

Objective
Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a severe intestinal disease that causes malabsorption, infection and liver failure. For the surgical management of intestinal rehabilitation, the intestinal loop lengthening method and serial transverse enteroplasty (STEP) method have been reported, although their effects have proven limited. We herein report a new surgical technique, Saeki – Spiral – Shark (3S) method for SBS using biomimetics of shark intestine.
Methods
In the 3S method, a spiral valve is formed inside the intestine by external sutures. Using a 25 cm length intestinal organ model, we performed both the 3S method and STEP procedure. We then compared the length and fluid passage times of the subsequently formed intestine.
Results
After the 3S method was performed, the length of the intestinal model changed to 22 cm, and after the STEP procedure, that was elongated to 30 cm. Although the water passage times did not change markedly, the semi-digestive nutritional supplement passage time slowed down in the model with the 3S method. There was slight leakage in the STEP procedure model.
Conclusions
The 3S method is a unique method of treating SBS based on biomimetics. This procedure does not require an incision of the intestine, which thereby enabling clean and less-invasive surgery. We plan to conduct animal experiments in the future.
Overexpression of chaperones GroEL/ES from Escherichia coli enhances the indigo biotransformation production of cytochrome P450 BM3 mutant
Authors: Peng Shuaiying , Chu Zhongmei , Lu Jianfeng , Li Dongxiao , Wang Yonghong , Yamg Shengli , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2022

The self-sufficient cytochrome P450 BM3 mutant (A74G/F87V/D168H/L188Q) could be used as the biocatalyst in the whole-cell catalysis process of indigo. Nevertheless, the bioconversion yield of indigo is low under normal cultivation conditions (37˚C, 250 rpm). In this paper, a recombinant E. coli BL21(DE3) strain was constructed to co-express both P450 BM3 mutant gene and GroEL/ES genes to investigate whether GroEL/ES could promote the indigo bioconversion production in E. coli. Results revealed that GroEL/ES system increased indigo bioconversion yield significantly, and the indigo bioconversion production of strain co-expressing P450 BM3 mutant and GroEL/ES was 21 times that of strain expressing P450 BM3 mutant alone. P450 BM3 enzyme content and in vitro indigo formation yield were determined to investigate the underlying reasons for the improved indigo bioconversion production. And it revealed that GroEL/ES did not increase indigo bioconversion production through improving P450 BM3 enzyme content and its enzymatic transformation efficiency. We also demonstrated that GroEL/ES could improve the intracellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)/NADP+ ratio. Given NADPH was an important coenzyme in the indigo catalytic process, the underlying mechanism of the increased indigo bioconversion yield was probably related to the improved intracellular NADPH/NADP+ ratio.
Estimations and Control of Julia Sets of the SIS Model Perturbed by Noise
Authors: Zhang Yongping , Xie Liheng
Published: August 2022

The estimations and control of Julia sets of the SIS model under noise perturbation are studied. At first, a discrete SIS model is introduced, and the effects of additive and multiplicative noises on the fractal characteristics of the SIS model are discussed. Then, estimating the Julia sets of the SIS model under additive and multiplicative noise perturbations are given, respectively. At last, the feedback control method is used to set appropriate controllers to realize control of the Julia set, and the influence of noise on the Julia set of the SIS model is reduced. The reason why this method is effective is also explained.