bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Techniques to Optimize the Fishing Process of WL Cable and Bha for Plug & Perf
Authors: Naso Luciano Andres , Zambon Matias Nahuel , Goñi Lucas , Ureta Matias Ezequiel
Published: March 2022

One of the most challenging Coiled Tubing (CT) operations is the fishing of Wireline (WL) components. In Vaca Muerta (Neuquen, Argentina), the shale activity has been increasing over the recent years with more than 1,000 hydraulic fracs per month, pushing the operational limits to achieve new records, bringing new unplanned operational issues.

After eight plug and perf stages completed in well A, a wireline BHA got stuck at 16,433 ft. After several attempts to retrieve the cable by activating the electrical and mechanical disconnect devices, it was decided to use a cable cutter which did not reach the target depth. Due to this event, four elements were left in the well: the cable cutter, 5,938 ft of cable with cable head, and lower part of BHA.

The recovery plan was to fish the cutter, pull out the wireline cable by breaking the mechanic release device, and then fish the BHA. The highest risk of this job was losing the horizontal section of the well if the cable broke during the fishing process, due to the well pressure and complex conditions.

For this reason, a new operation plan was designed and executed, that included the combination of wireline and Coiled Tubing services with an innovative rig up and fishing technique. These changes allowed to optimize the job to 5 operating days with only one wireline run and three CT runs. No damage was caused on the well and completion operations were resumed as planned.
Field Application of Slickline Fishing Well Intervention Technology in Ultra-Deep HTHP Gas Reservoirs
Authors: Liu Huifeng , Ding Mingming , Li Cheng , Ling Zongfa , Yuan Zebo , Liu Qi , Qin Zhengli
Published: March 2022

Kelasu gas field in Tarim Basin is characterized by ultra-deep (6500-8000m), ultra-high temperature (160-19°C) and ultra-high reservoir pressure (110-136MPa). The wellhead pressure during production is also as high as 80-100MPa. Rigless well intervention is always difficult to perform because of the high well control risks. Slickline testing, electric line testing and optical fiber monitoring have all been tried, but problems like breaking of slickline, loss of signal, falling of instruments into well, etc. were encountered.

A slickline fishing technology has been used for bottom hole well surveillance in this area with many optimizations on the instruments. Grease injection sealing assisted by packing sealing is used to reduce friction of slickline and to guarantee well safety during operation; a choke tube stabilization device is invented to deal with the eccentric wearing of slickline and choke tube; self-supporting lever together with 8 anchor ropes are used to stabilize the blowout prevention tube assembly to withstand the high wind in the mountainous area; grease collection device is used to avoid the discharge of grease into the environment.

The technology has been successfully used in more than 70 wells in Kelasu gas field. The interventions include production testing, pressure built up (PBU) testing and well interference test. The maximum setting depth of the manometer reaches 7189 m. The highest wellhead pressure during testing reaches 90 MPa. Longest pressure survey time comes up to 52 days. No surface or downhole problems have been encountered and all the required data have been acquired. The wells were not killed during the intervention so the reservoir is well protected. Well interference tests were conducted in Keshen 8 block using this technology. The results showed very good interwell connectivity and suggested that well spacing should be enlarged. The development program of this block was adjusted accordingly and it turned out that the expected production rate was achieved with 4 less wells. Besides, the drilling thickness of the target formation was reduced from 200m to 130m and the same well productivity was also obtained.

Now the slickline fishing bottom hole pressure survey technology has been extensively used in the ultra-deep HTHP wells in Kuqa Foreland Area. It has been field proven for simple operating, less cost and formation protection. It can be used anytime in the life cycle of a well to evaluate the reservoir dynamic data, to deploy new wells and to optimize the production system of existing wells.
Nonlinear association between changes in fasting plasma glucose and the incidence of diabetes in a nondiabetic Chinese cohort
Authors: Huang Chenghu , Ren Chenhong , Xuan Xiuping , Luo Yi , Peng Caibi
Published: March 2022

Background: Limited data show that changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG changes) are related to the incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2D). We aimed to correlate FPG changes with incident diabetes and evaluate FPG changes as a marker to screen participants at high risk of T2D in China.Methods: A total of 116,816 individuals were followed during a median follow-up of 3.10 years by secondary analysis in a nondiabetic Chinese cohort. The turning points were derived from a receiver operating characteristic curve. Hazard ratios (HRs) were evaluated by Cox proportional hazards models.Results: A total of 2669 cases of T2D were identified (788 women and 1881 men). The age-standardized incidence of diabetes was 12.87 per 1000 person-years (women: 11.04; men: 14.69). A nonlinear relationship between FPG changes and incident diabetes is shown by the fitting curves. The curves were categorized into three stages by two turning points (-0.04 and 1.25 mmol/L) and conformed to the hook-like pattern: an initial decrease (stage-1), then a transient sharp elevation (stage-2), followed by a slow increase (stage-3). HRs per SD of FPG changes on incident diabetes varied with stage: stage-1: 0.16 (0.12, 0.23), stage-2: 0.20 (0.15, 0.28) and stage-3: 0.22 (0.16, 0.31). Compared with stage-1, the HR in stage-3 was significantly higher at 28.05 (23.99, 32.79), while the increase in stage-2 was slight at 2.16 (1.79, 2.61), and the HR in stage-3 rose to 30.09 (25.02, 36.19).Conclusions: FPG changes had a strong correlation with the incidence of T2D and was a steady indicator that was used to distinguish the participants at high risk of diabetes.
Isolation, morpho-physiological and molecular characterization, phylogenetic analysis of Trichoderma asperellum in Bangladesh
Authors: Mahmud Hyat - , Uddin Sheikh Afsar , Hossain Ismail - , Monjil M S , Hossain Mohammad Delwar
Published: March 2022

The experiment was conducted at four laboratories, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh to identify T. asperellum and its characterization was obtained from the rhizosphere of 49 different crops in 109 different locations in Bangladesh. Fifteen isolates of 88 isolates in T. asperellum were characterized on morphological and physiological features. TR27 and TR45 were grown and sporulated at 40°C except all the isolates of 35°C. As the increasing pH value mycelial growth of all the isolates was reduced. Molecular characterization in four isolates of (TR27) Sadar, Moulvibazar (Rice), (TR45) Sadar, Mymensingh (Sweet gourd), (TR70) Chapra, Chapai Nawabganj (Sesame) and (TR85) Nayanpur, Lalmonirhat (Maize) were studied at ITS and TEF region nucleotide sequencing among 15 isolates of T. asperellum, and the morphological characterization at ITS and tef1 nucleotide sequencing was assimilated with molecular characterization. Isolates of TR45, TR70 and TR85 were found with 98% homology and TR27 exhibited 88% against their respective closest isolate. Isolates of TR27 and TR85 marked their respective nearest homology (96%), while TR45 showed 99%, and 93% homology was signified with TR70 in TEF sequences. Isolates of TR45, TR70 and TR85 were identified as T. asperellum of 100% bootstrap value and TR27 isolate was also recognized with 72% bootstrap value in the phylogenetic tree. In phylogenetic analysis, tef1 extended better differentiation among the Trichoderma isolates within and among the groups of closely related species than rDNA of the ITS region in reflecting wider variability in the isolates while a higher transversion ratio and evolutionary divergence were defined.
Neuroprotective of Metformin on ischemic brain injury in rats
Authors: Lv HaiXia , ruan cailian , Yu Yong , Wang Lijun
Published: March 2022

Ischemic brain injury is a disease with high incidence rate, high disability rate and high mortality rate. The insufficiency of cerebral blood supply makes cerebral ischemia and hypoxia, leading to severe oxidative stress, severe inflammatory reaction and ultimately irreversible brain tissue damage or apoptosis.Metformin(Met,Abdominal inject,20 mg/kg,28days)is a guanidine derivative extracted from goats and is the first choice for first-line treatment of type 2 diabetes.In this study, the rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO) reperfusion injury and the hippocampal HT22 cell oxygen glucose privatization / reoxygenation (OGD/R) cell model were used to observe the effects of Met on the morphology of hippocampus, Nrf2, apoptosis factors, oxidative stress factors and inflammatory factors after CI/RI in rats ,it was further revealed that Met by using LY294002 antagonist, a specific kinase (phosphoinositide-3 kinase,PI3K) phosphoinositol-3 kinase, regulates the PI3K/Akt/Nrf2 signaling pathway in role in CI/RI.
Preparation of hemp nanocellulose and its use to improve the properties of paper for food packaging
Authors: Barbash Valerii Anatolievich , Yashchenko Olha , Yakymenko Olha , Zakharko Roman , Myshak Volodymir
Published: March 2022

The study describes the preparation of nanocellulose from organosolv hemp pulp (OHP) and its applications in composition of paper for food packaging as an alternative to packaging from petroleum products. OHP was obtained from renewable plant materials hemp fibers by extraction with NaOH solution and cooking using a mixture of acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide. A stable transparent nanocellulose gel was extracted from OHP by acid hydrolysis followed by ultrasonic treatment. It was found that an increase in the consumption of sulfuric acid, temperature and duration of the OHP hydrolysis process improves the quality indicators of hemp nanocellulose. A linear dependence of the tensile strength and transparency of nanocellulose films on their density has been established. Morphological (SEM), structural (FTIR and XRD) and thermal analysis (TGA) of hemp fibers, OHP and nanocellulose were carried out. Nanocellulose films had a density of up to 1.56 g/cm3, a tensile strength of up to 66.7 MPa, a transparency of up to 87.3%. AFM method have shown that the transverse dimension of nanocellulose particles is from 8 nm to 23 nm. Hemp nanocellulose has a higher crystallinity index (87.2%) than OHP (72.0%), but has lower thermal stability. The positive effect of adding nanocellulose from hemp on improving all quality parameters of paper for food packaging has been shown. The addition of 2% hemp nanocellulose makes it possible to obtain paper that exceeds the breaking force requirements of premium grade paper by 40%, and the breaking length increases by 42% compared to paper without chemical additives.
Temporal changes in gut microbiota composition and pollen diet associated with colony weakness of a stingless bee.
Authors: Haag Karen Luisa , Caesar Lilian , Regueira-Neto Marcos da Silveira , de Sousa Dayana Rosalina , Marcelino Victor Montenegro , Balbino Valdir de Queiroz , Carvalho Airton Torres
Published: March 2022

Compared to honeybees and bumblebees, the effect of diet on the gut microbiome of Neotropical corbiculate bees such as Melipona spp. is largely unknown. These bees have been managed for centuries, but recently an annual disease is affecting M. quadrifasciata, an endangered species kept exclusively by management in Southern Brazil. Here we report the results of a longitudinal metabarcoding study involving the period of M. quadrifasciata colony weakness, designed to monitor the gut microbiota and diet changes preceding an outbreak. We found increasing amounts of bacteria associated to the gut of forager bees two months before the first symptoms have been recorded. Simultaneously, forager bees showed decreasing body weight. The accelerated growth of gut-associated bacteria was uneven among taxa, with Bifidobacteriaceae dominating, and Lactobacillaceae decreasing in relative abundance within the bacterial community. Dominant fungi such as Candida and Starmerella also decreased in numbers, and the stingless bee obligate symbiont Zygosaccharomyces showed the lowest relative abundance during the outbreak period. Such changes were associated with pronounced diet shifts, i.e., the rise of Eucalyptus spp. pollen amount in forager bees’ guts. Furthermore, there was a negative correlation between the amount of Eucalyptus pollen in diets and the abundance of some bacterial taxa in the gut associated microbiota. We conclude that diet and subsequent interactions with the gut microbiome are key environmental components of the annual disease, and propose the use of diet supplementation as means to sustain the activity of stingless bee keeping as well as native bee pollination services.
Effect of lipid-lowering Medications in patients with coronary artery bypass grafting surgery outcomes
Authors: Shi Chunxia , Zhang Zugui , Goldhammer Jordan , Li David , Kiaii Bob , Rudriguez Victor , Boyd Douglas , Lubarsky David , Applegate Richard , Liu Hong
Published: March 2022

Background: Increased life expectancy and improved medical technology allow increasing numbers of elderly patients to undergo cardiac surgery. Elderly patients may be at greater risk of postoperative morbidity and mortality. Complications can lead to worsened quality of life, shortened life expectancy and higher healthcare costs. Reducing perioperative complications, especially severe adverse events, is key to improving outcomes in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The objective of this study is to determine whether perioperative lipid-lowering medication use is associated with a reduced risk of complications and mortality after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Methods: After IRB approval, we reviewed charts of 9,518 patients who underwent cardiac surgery with CPB at three medical centers between July 2001 and June 2015. The relationship between perioperative lipid-lowering treatment and postoperative outcome was investigated. 3,988 patients who underwent CABG met inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Patients were divided into lipid-lowering or non-lipid-lowering treatment groups. Results: A total of 3,988 patients with the mean ago > 65 years old were included in the final analysis. Compared to the patients without lipid-lowering medications, the patients with lipid-lowering medications had lower postoperative neurologic complications and overall mortality (P<0.05). Propensity weighted risk-adjustment showed that lipid-lowering medication reduced in-hospital total complications (odds ratio (OR)=0.856; 95% CI 0.781-0.938; P<0.001); all neurologic complications (OR=0.572; 95% CI 0.441-0.739; P<0.001) including stroke (OR=0.481; 95% CI 0.349-0.654; P<0.001); in-hospital mortality (OR=0.616; 95% CI 0.432-0.869; P=0.006; P<0.001); and overall mortality (OR=0.723; 95% CI 0.634-0.824; P<0.001). In addition, the results indicated postoperative lipid-lowering medication use was associated with improved long-term survival in this patient population. Conclusions: Perioperative lipid-lowering medication use was associated with significantly reduced postoperative adverse events and improved overall outcome in elderly patients undergoing CABG surgery with CPB.
Histopathological and Cytopathological Determination of Alterations and Immune Response in Spleen Tissue of Oreochromis Niloticus Exposed to Sub-Lethal Concentration of Diazinon
Authors: UĞURLU Pelin , SATAR Elif İpek , ÇİÇEK Tarık
Published: March 2022

In this study, it was aimed to determine duration based histopathological, cytopathological and immunological alterations in spleen structure of Oreochromis niloticus samples exposed to sublethal concentration of diazinon standart with light microscope and TEM. At the first step of the study, the fish were exposed to 280 µg/L (LC50/10) Diazinon for 21 days. Afterwards, the histopathological, cytopathological alterations and immune response in the spleen tissue were investigated by light microscope and TEM at 7th, 14th and 21st days. In the histopathological results, melanomacrophage centers with hemosiderin accumulation, cloudy swelling, pyknosis, hypertrophy and necrosis were detected in the spleen tissue. The severity of these alterations increased with the duration of the exposure. Mitochondrial deformation (cristolysis), pyknotic nucleus, vacuolation, increased phagositic activity of melanomacrophage, nuclear deformation, high amount of melanin and hemosiderin accumulation were detected in the cytopathological investigation of spleen tissue. According to those results it could be assumed that diazinon caused histopathological and cytopathological alterations in the spleen tissue of O. niloticus and also had immunotoxic effects.
Assessing the Carbon Footprint of a Colombian University Campus Using the UNE-ISO 14064-1 Standard
Authors: Cano Natalia , Berrio Linda , Carvajal Elizabeth , Arango Santiago
Published: March 2022

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) transfer skills and knowledge between industries, the government, and the public, playing a vital role in the education system for a globally sustainable future as “future leaders.” Therein, evaluating greenhouse gas emissions from an educational institute is the first step towards the proposed reduction targets at the local, national and international levels. In this research, we report the first approximate carbon footprint calculation of emissions corresponding to scope 1, scope 2, and scope 3 emissions for the main urban campuses of Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Medellín, using the UNE-ISO 14064-1 standard. The carbon footprint in 2019 was approximately 7250.52 tons CO2 eq, and 0.432 tons CO2 eq per person. Scope 1 emissions accounted for about 2.84% of the carbon footprint, while Scope 2 and 3 emissions each contributed nearly 14% and 83%, respectively. The largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions were the wastewater process (20.46%), followed by electricity consumption (14.03%) and sent emails (7.83%). We suggested some proposals and strategies for mitigating and reducing emissions. Colombian HEIs exhibit the lowest ton of CO2 eq. per person compared to the other HEIs. The reason may be income conditioned by the GDP of each country. Literature reviews do not exhibit a clear contribution to the carbon footprint of Colombian HEIs. This research is the first carbon footprint calculation used as a methodological contribution to HEIs in the country because the method’s implementation is not extrapolated for socioecological, political and geographic conditions
The Effects of Stand-alone Thoracoscopic Left Atrial Appendage Clipping on Blood Pressure and Electrolytes
Authors: Chen Yiming , Xu Dong
Published: March 2022

Background: The natriuretic peptides secreted from the left atrial appendage could affect patients' system homeostasis by antagonizing the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Thus, the epicardial LAA closure may induce unwanted hyponatremia and hypotension cause of isolating the LAA from the circulation. In this study, we aim to explore this phenomenon following stand-alone thoracoscopic LAA clipping and provide a hypothesis of the potential mechanism.Methods: This was a retrospective, observational study including 27 stroke patients with AF who underwent thoracoscopic LAA clipping. Electrolyte, BP, heart rate, and BNP were measured before the procedure, immediately after the device release, at 1st day, 2nd day postoperation, and 24h before discharge. Fluid amounts were only monitored postoperatively.Results: There was a significantly acute reduction in serum sodium (mmol/L) at all the timepoints postoperation when compared to baseline. The blood pressure has no significant difference when compared with baseline levels at discharge.Conclusion: Epicardial LAA clipping induce an acute decrease in serum sodium and MAP postoperation which indicates to the surgeons that the postoperative intake fluid amounts and serum sodium level management should be appropriate. Although the fluctuation of blood pressure of patients was observed perioperative, it has returned to the baseline level till discharge and the accurate and further mechanisms still need more study.
Contraceptive Practices among Breastfeeding Mothers
Authors: Mohammed Atiya Kareem
Published: March 2022

Breastfeeding women should have access to family planning information and services to help them select a method of birth control that allows them to support breastfeeding and is safe for the breastfeeding child. The study aimed to evaluate the practices of various contraceptive methods among mothers who were breastfeeding. A descriptive-analytic design was conducted for breastfeeding mothers from the period of 12 February to 28 October 2021. To give equal chances to participate, the probability simple randomization technique was applied for selecting (800) postnatal breastfeeding mothers were attending the immunization unit in Primary Health Centers in Sulaimani City. Overall items included in the questionnaire were in two parts: part one General and specific information about breastfeeding mothers' concerns, and the response of the characteristics of socio-demographic variables and obstetric status. Part two was contraceptive practices. The data were collected through the use of interviews and then analyzed through the application of descriptive statistical analysis, and inferential statistical analysis. Common contraceptives used among breastfeeding mothers were natural contraception (62.5%), condoms (17.5%), ICUD (5.0%), oral contraceptives (3.5%), and breastfeeding (11.5%). A high percentage of the breastfeeding mothers used contraceptives and only ten percent of mothers were using breastfeeding for contraception. A significant difference was found between socio-demographic data and practice contraception and resumption of menstrual after delivery. According to the findings of the study, a focus on health education for mothers should be established, and the nurse should take on the role of contraceptive method educator.
Ice Flood Hazard Risk Assessment Based on Random Forest Method Under Simulation of Levee Breaches
Authors: Wang Xiujie , Qu Zihua , Tian Fuchang , Wang Yanpeng , Yuan Ximin , Xu Kui
Published: March 2022

In areas with higher latitudes, ice sheets, ice jams or ice dams are often formed in rivers to overtop levees due to lower temperatures in winter, which can cause sizeable social and economic losses, as well as countless injuries and death. This study presents the typical ice flood area of the Inner Mongolia section of the Yellow River as the research object. On the basis of the hazard system theory and comprehensive analysis of ice flood risk factors, including the hazard-inducing factors and hazard-pregnant environments, as well as the vulnerability of the hazard-bearing bodies, we selected eight risk assessment indicators to construct an ice flood hazard risk assessment model based on random forest (RF) algorithm. The three hazard-inducing factors consist of: maximum submergence depth, maximum flood velocity and maximum submergence duration, which were derived from the river-flood ice flood backwater burst submergence coupling model; while the three hazard-pregnant environments are: topographic elevation, terrain gradient and the distance from the river. The two hazard-bearing bodies include: population density and GDP density. The modeling results show that compared with the risk assessment model of K-nearest neighbor (KNN) algorithm, both the index Precision (P) and the area under curve (AUC) of RF model are better in the ice flood risk assessment of four study areas. This presents that RF has significant advantages in solving the classification and processing problem of multi-dimensional ice flood hazard data. It can provide support for the analysis and evaluation of the situation of ice flood prevention and mitigation.
Fractional anisotropy and peripheral cytokine concentrations in outpatients with depressive episode: a diffusion tensor imaging observational study
Authors: Sammer Gebhard , Neumann Elena , Blecker Carlo , Pedraz-Petrozzi Bruno
Published: March 2022

Background: Over the past few years, evidence of a positive relationship between inflammation and depression has grown steadily. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether such depression-related inflammation could also be associated with altered microstructural changes in the white matter. Methods: FA and serum cytokines (IL-1𝛽, IL-6, TNF-𝛼, and IFN-𝛾) were measured in 25 patients with depression (DE) and 24 healthy controls (HC). Diffusion tensor imaging was performed. Fractional anisotropy (FA) was calculated using the FSL pipeline for TBSS. Both voxelwise and mean whole-brain FA were analyzed using general linear models (GLM). Results: Higher concentrations of IL-1𝛽 were associated with lower fractional anisotropy of the whole brain, especially in people with depression. TNF-𝛼 shares some of the variance with IL-1𝛽, and therefore higher TNF-𝛼 concentrations also showed a negative relationship with FA. In detail, the voxelwise analysis showed that the regression slopes of IL-1𝛽 on FA were more negative in the DE group than in the HC group, mainly in the corpus callosum. Similar effects were not found for the other remaining cytokines. Conclusions: This study clearly demonstrated an association between peripherally measured IL-1𝛽 and white matter integrity in depression as assessed by DTI. The results suggest that microstructural changes in the corpus callosum are associated with increased peripheral IL-1𝛽 concentrations in depression.
Exploratory Evaluation of 18F-FMAU PET in Tracking Response to Docetaxel Treatment in Prostate Tumor-Bearing Mice
Authors: Jadvar Hossein , Park Ryan , Vorobyova Ivetta , Chen Kai
Published: March 2022

Background
The aim of this exploratory preclinical study was to evaluate the efficacy of 18F-FMAU PET in quantitatively measuring response to a chemotherapeutic agent in experimental prostate cancer models.
Methods and Materials:
Docetaxel (DTX) ‒ a standard therapy agent in castrate-resistant metastatic prostate cancer was used as the chemotherapy drug. Athymic male nu/nu mice were inoculated with PC-3 cells in the right flank. After the tumor diameter reached 5 mm, DTX (24 mg/kg) was injected intravenously twice/week, whereas the control group was intravenously administered with saline. During the therapeutic period, the tumor size and body weight were monitored, and longitudinal PET scans were acquired with 18F-FMAU to evaluate tumor cell proliferation. 18F-FMAU PET scans were performed at 2 h post-injection of 18F-FMAU on days 0, 11, 18, and 22. Biodistribution studies were carried out after the PET scan on day 22.
Results
Consecutive administrations of DTX were effective in inhibiting PC-3 tumor growth compared to the control group. For PET imaging, PC-3 tumor uptake of 18F-FMAU in the treatment group was increased significantly from 3.09 ± 0.60%ID/g (day 0) to 5.32 ± 0.37%ID/g (day 22), whereas the 18F-FMAU tumor update in the control group remained relatively similar on day 0 (2.37 ± 0.51%ID/g) vs. day 22 (1.83 ± 0.22%ID/g). The tumor-to-muscle uptake ratio of 18F-FMAU was increased from 2.63 ± 0.20 (day 0) to 5.91 ± 1.1 (day 22) in the treatment group. On day 22, no statistical significance was observed on the tumor-to-muscle uptake ratio of 18F-FMAU in the treatment group vs. the control group. The tumor-to-liver uptake ratio of 18F-FMAU was also similar on day 22 in the treatment group (4.29 ± 0.09) vs. the control group (3.83 ± 0.59).
Conclusion
18F-FMAU uptake in implanted PC-3 tumors increases with DTX treatment despite the decline in tumor size. Further investigation is needed to decipher the underlying biological mechanism of this flare effect and its relation to the predictability of therapy response.
Estimation of the Cost-Saving for Inpatient and Pharmaceutical Expenses if a Diagnostic Related Group Payment System Had Been Established Instead of Fee-for-Service and Case-Mixed Payment Systems
Authors: Khadivi Yousef , Nabi-Meybodi Mohsen , Saghafi Fatemeh , Khadivi Reza
Published: March 2022

Introduction:
The second phase of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) was implemented in Iran in 2014. The purpose of this study was to estimate the amounts of cost-saving in inpatient and pharmaceutical costs in public hospitals if the Diagnostic Related Groups (DRG) payment system had been implemented instead of the Fee-for-Service (FFS) and Case-mixed payment systems.
Methods
In this cross-sectional study, firstly, the inpatient and pharmaceutical costs were collected in public hospitals, affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences (MUI), in 2013 and 2015. In the second stage, according to a systematic review study by August 2021, the average effects of establishing the DRG payment system on the costs of inpatient and pharmaceutical services were extracted. In the third stage, taking into account the inflation rate, this presumptive average effects of the DRG (based on global models) incurred in the MUI’s public hospitals expenses. In this way, it was estimated the amount of money that could be saved if the DRG payment system has been implemented.
Results
According to the related published papers, following implementation of the DRG, the medication and hospitalization costs nearly decreased by average as 40.86% and 16.39%, respectively. By applying the assumption ratio of change following the implementation of the DRG, the cost savings were estimated as 119,679,523$ and 146,357,651$ in inpatient and pharmaceutical expenses respectively.
Conclusion
During the UHC, if the DRG payment system had been implemented, it could be saved 17.43% of the total expenditures incurred in the health sector of MUI.
Inference of causal relationships between genetic risk factors for cardiometabolic phenotypes and female-specific health conditions
Authors: Xiao Brenda , Edwards Digna Velez , Lucas Anastasia , Drivas Theodore , Gray Kathryn , Keating Brendan , Weng Chunhua , Jarvik Gail , Hakonarson Hakon , Kottyan Leah , Elhadad Noémie , Wei Wei-Qi , Luo Yuan , Kim Dokyoon , Ritchie Marylyn , Verma Shefali
Published: March 2022

Cardiometabolic diseases are highly comorbid, but their relationship with female-specific health conditions (breast cancer, endometriosis, pregnancy complications) is understudied. Using electronic health record data from 71,008 ancestrally diverse females, we examined relationships between 23 obstetrical/gynecological conditions and 4 cardiometabolic phenotypes (body mass index [BMI], coronary artery disease [CAD], type 2 diabetes [T2D], and hypertension) using cross-trait genetic correlation analyses, polygenic risk scores (PRSs), Mendelian randomization (MR), and chronology analyses. We observed 29 significant associations between cardiometabolic PRSs and obstetrical/gynecological conditions (BMI and endometrial cancer; BMI and polycystic ovarian syndrome [PCOS)]; T2D and gestational diabetes; T2D and PCOS). MR analysis provided additional evidence of independent causal effects. We also identified an inverse association between CAD and breast cancer. High cardiometabolic PRSs were associated with early development of PCOS and gestational hypertension. We conclude that polygenic susceptibility to cardiometabolic traits is associated with elevated risk of certain female-specific health conditions.
Research on green technology marketing Model based on Dynamic Evolutionary Game under low-carbon background
Authors: Zhu Meihong , Zhao Li , Li Xiao , Wang Xinliang
Published: March 2022

With the present situation of development in green technology as the background, combined with technology marketing models in other areas, this paper builds three technology marketing models, based on the Stackelberg game between the technology suppliers and distributors. Namely, the three models are direct official marketing, agency relationship cooperation, and agency sales relationship cooperation. Dynamic system model is built on relationship cooperation. By comparing with and analyzing the model solution results, and observing the effect of various parameters in terms of numerical simulation on enterprise decision variables, profits, and the optimal mode policy selection, we find that the level of price discount will decide whether the technology supplier selects the agency sales model, while the level of the profit distribution factor decides whether the technology supplier takes direct official sale. Meanwhile, excessive price adjustment speed will disturb the market stability and interfere with enterprise decision-making.
Antenatal and delivery practices and neonatal mortality amongst women with institutional and non-institutional deliveries in rural Zimbabwe: observational data from a cluster randomized trial
Authors: Mooney Ciaran , Noble Christie , Makasi Rachel , Ntozini Robert , Majo Florence , Church James , Tavengwa Naume , Prendergast Andrew , Humphrey Jean
Published: March 2022

Background Despite significant investment and global improvements in neonatal mortality rates over the past three decades, neonatal mortality in Zimbabwe, like in other sub-Saharan countries, has continued to rise. Ensuring access to institutional delivery is an important factor in improving both neonatal and maternal outcomes. MethodsThis study uses data from the Sanitation Hygiene Infant Nutrition Efficacy (SHINE) trial, a cluster-randomized community-based trial, to examine the risk factors, birth practices and infant outcomes among women having institutional or non-institutional deliveries in rural Zimbabwe. Results 11.9% (n=536) fetuses in the study were delivered by 529 mothers outside a health institution. These women were more likely to have a lower socioeconomic status than those who delivered in a health institution. Additionally, hygiene practices were poorer and interventions to minimise neonatal hypothermia less commonly utilised outside of health institutions. Infants with non-institutional deliveries were born on average 1.15 weeks (95%CI 0.84-1.46) earlier than those who were delivered in a health institution; their risk of being born preterm was more than twice as high (RR 2.20, 95%CI 1.92-2.53). The risk of stillbirth and neonatal death among infants born outside a health institution was more than two-fold higher (RR 2.38, 95%CI 1.36-4.15; and 2.01, 95%CI 1.31-3.10, respectively) that among infants born in a health institution. ConclusionsOur findings indicate that premature onset of labor, rather than maternal choice, may be the reason for many non-institutional deliveries in low-resource settings. This most often occurs amongst women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds who cannot reach a health institution quickly, and so are attended by untrained caregivers in less hygienic conditions. This cascade of events results in a two-fold higher risk of stillbirth and neonatal mortality amongst children born outside of a health institution. Interventions for primary prevention of preterm delivery will be crucial in reducing neonatal mortality in Zimbabwe. Trial registration The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01824940.
Retinal Layer Segmentation In A Cohort Of Healthy Children Via Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Runge Anna-Katharina , Remlinger Jana , Abegg Mathias , Ferrazzini Thomas , Brügger Dominik , Weigt-Usinger Katharina , Lücke Thomas , Gold Ralf , Salmen Anke
Published: March 2022

Background: High-resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT) allows the detection of macular pathology and involvement of the optic nerve in a wide spectrum of diseases. For the differentiation of diseased and healthy status, normal values of retinal layer segmentation are critical. Yet, normative values mostly cover adult populations with only sparse data for paediatric cohorts. We present data of retinal layer characteristics via OCT in a healthy paediatric cohort.Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study screened 75 healthy children (male=42, female=33, range 4-17 years) without visual problems. OCT was performed with a peripapillary ring and macula scan protocol to determine paediatric normative values for routine parameters (peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer thickness (pRNFL), total macular volume (TMV), macular retinal thickness (RT)). The macula scan (6mm grid) was segmented using the device-inherent automated segmentation software (Heidelberg Eye Explorer) for retinal layers: RNFL, ganglion cell layer (GCL), inner plexiform layer (IPL), inner nuclear layer (INL), outer plexiform layer (OPL), outer nuclear layer (ONL) in 9 segments each and mean of the 9 segments.Results: We obtained OCT data of 72 children with mean age 12.49 years (standard deviation, SD, 2.18; minimum 3.93). Mean global pRNFL was 102.20 μm (SD 8.24), mean TMV 8.81 mm3 (0.30) and mean RT (all segments) 318.22 μm (10.19). Segmented macular retinal layer thicknesses (mean of all segments) were: RNFL 27.67 μm (2.14), GCL 41.94 μm (2.50), IPL 34.97 μm (2.10), INL 35.18 μm (2.15), OPL 29.06 μm (2.24), ONL 68.35 μm (6.20).Conclusion: The OCT is a useful non-invasive imaging technique for the examination of the retina in children with short duration, high imaging resolution and no known adverse effects. Normative values may serve as a comparator for different neuropaediatric disorders and are first presented with this study using an up-to-date and standardized OCT imaging technique.
The Full-length Genome Sequence of a Novel Amalgavirus in Lillium spp. in China
Authors: Huo Yanyan , Ali Mubassir , Li Xiaoting , Zhou Jiale , Wu Juan , Lin Shengjie , Ding Jiahao , Liu Huan , Yu Jianglian , Hong Ni , Wang Guoping , Ding Fang
Published: March 2022

We report firstly the complete genome sequence of a novel amalgavirus, tentatively designated as ‘Lily amalgavirus 1’(LAV-1), isolated from Lilium spp.in China. LAV-1 is a 3448-nt double-stranded RNA virus. It codes two putative proteins, open reading frame 1(ORF1) is 394 aa in length with unknown function. ORF2 encodes a putative RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) of 895 aa. Two ORFs form a ‘1 + 2’ fusion protein translated in ‘+1’ programmed ribosomal frame shift (PRF). BLASTp analysis revealed that the complete genome sequence of LAV-1 shares 48.23%–59.80% sequence identity (query sequence coverage more than 77%) with those of members of the genus Amalgavirus, with the highest nucleotide sequence identity of 59.80% with that of Allium cepa amalgavirus 1 (query sequence coverage 87%). The genome structure, phylogenetic relationships, and sequence similarities to other plant amalgaviruses suggest that LAV-1 is a new member of the genus Amalgavirus.
Effects of Community-Based Family Planning Education Program on Knowledge of Family Planning Methods Among Married Women in Khartoum State, Sudan
Authors: Sagiron Elwaleed , Jarelnape Ahmed
Published: March 2022

Background
Family planning (FP) is an important strategy in promoting maternal and child health. Although family planning was initiated in Sudan in 1965 and then incorporated into the Primary Health Care (PHC) in 1985, the utilization rate remains low, which is among the lowest countries in the region. this study aimed to evaluate the effects of a community-based family planning education program on knowledge of family planning methods for married women in Khartoum State, Sudan.
Methods
Quasi-community interventional study design. It was conducted in Khartoum State, Sudan in December, 2020. A Family planning program was invented as an intervention program. The sample size consists of 456 mothers, the participants in the research are between the ages of (15 and 49). The data were collected by a questionnaire designed to measure mothers’ knowledge. The questionnaire consisted of 30 questions covering the different aspects of family planning. The data were collected by the researcher. A pre-evaluation was done on the knowledge by using a structured questionnaire. After that, the health education program for the experimental group was done within 20 educational hours, pre and post-test is done to the evaluated effectiveness of the educational program.
Results
The study results showed most of the intervention and control groups were illiterate 40%, they have little information about family planning methods, the mothers’ knowledge has increased after family planning program intervention from 40–84.7%.
Conclusion
The study concluded that a family planning educational program has significantly increased a mother’s knowledge regarding family planning.
Genotype and Phenotype of Adenosine Deaminase 2 Deficiency: The Experience From Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alabbas Fahad , Alanzi Talal , Alrasheed Abdulrahman , Essa Mohammed , Elyamany Ghaleb , Asiri Abdulrahman , Almutairi Sajdi , Al-Mayouf Sulaiman , Alenazi Abdullatif , Alsafadi Danyah , Ballourah Walid , Albalawi Naif , Hanafy Ehab , Al-Hebshi Abdulqader , Alrashidi Seham , Albatniji Fatma , Alfaraidi Huda , Ali Tahani Bin , Qwaiee Mansour Al , AlHilali Maryam , Aldeeb Hayam , Alhaidey Ali , Aljasem Hassan , Althubaiti Sami , Alsultan Abdulrahman
Published: March 2022

PurposeDADA2 is a rare and potentially fatal systemic autoinflammatory disease characterized by reduced or absence of ADA2 enzyme activity resulting from mutations in the ADA2 gene. Symptoms of DADA2 are variable and include vasculitis, immune dysregulation, and cytopenia. Scattered Saudi cases of DADA2 have been reported. We describe clinical, molecular, and outcome characterization of Saudi cases focused on phenotypic variability of DADA2.Methods To summarize the clinical features of Saudi patients with DADA2, we conducted a retrospective observational study in the seven major tertiary medical centers. Analysis of clinical characteristics, diagnostic findings, and treatment outcomes was obtained.ResultsWe identified 21 individuals with DADA2 from 14 families. At the time of the study, the patient's age was between 4 and 26 years (median age of 11.3 years). 20 patients presented during childhood. Homozygous c1447-1451del of ADA2 was the most frequently observed mutation in 38%, followed by c882-2A: G in 29%. Absent ADA2 activity was identified in all tested patients with homozygous mutations. Phenotypic manifestations included vasculopathy (stroke or cutaneous lesion) in 48%, cytopenia in 95%, autoinflammatory features such as intermittent fever, transaminases, and hepatosplenomegaly, and or immunodeficiency in 71% of the patients. 4 patients presented with Hodgkin lymphoma and one patient presented with clinical features mimic transverse myelitis, adding to the clinical spectrum of DADA2. Anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) is the main treatment. However, regular blood transfusion, splenectomy, cyclosporine, and hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) were initiated in other patients because of anti-TNF failure. Morality was reported in 3 patients due to fulminant hepatitis and septic multi-organ failure.ConclusionOur cohort expands the variability of molecular and clinical characteristics of DADA2. Hematological phenotype predominates in the patients. Consensus diagnostic criteria are required to facilitate early diagnosis and initiation of prompt therapy. Evaluation of the rare disease complications such as cancer needs large prospective studies or disease registries
Discovery of Novel Inhibitors Targeting HDM2: Virtual Screening, Molecular Dynamics Simulation, Binding affinity predication and Cell Assay
Authors: Cao Feng , Chen Liang , Xiong Feng , Li Hongmei , Liu Xingyong , Zhang Li
Published: March 2022

HDM2(human double-minute 2 protein) is an important drug target for tumor treatment. The main physiological function of HDM2 is to negatively regulate the tumor suppressor protein p53 and inhibit the normal biological function of p53, which leads to the occurrence and development of tumors. Therefore, the discovery of small molecules that can inhibit the activity of HDM2 is a promising cancer therapy. In this study, we reported a virtual screening as an effective strategy to discover potential HDM2 inhibitors from the Specs database. Then 100 ns all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and binding free energies calculated were carried out on the selected compounds, and cell assay showed that Hit 3 was the most active against SMMC-7721 cell line with an IC50 of 14.14μM. In conclusion, we reported seven prospective candidates with novel skeletons among them Hit 3 is a potential HDM2 inhibitor and provided an insight into the mechanism of interaction of the compounds to HDM2 target.
Duck Circovirus in Northern Vietnam: Genetic Characterization of the Complete Genome and Epidemiological Analysis of the Causative Agent
Authors: Tran Giang Thi Huong , Mai Ngan Thi , Bui Vuong Nghia , Dao Tung Duy , Trinh Dai Quang , Vu Tra Thi Thu , Le Van Phan , Dong Hieu Van
Published: March 2022

In the present study, tissue samples collected from a total of 130 commercial ducks collected from clinically suspected flocks and diseased birds in six provinces of northern Vietnam were tested for DuCV infection. The DuCV genome was detected in 56 out of 130 (43.08%) duck samples by PCR. Of 38 tested farms, 26 (68.42%) were positive for the DuCV genome. The rate of the DuCV genome detection in ducks at 3–4 (54.17%) is significantly higher (p<0.05) than that of <3 (32.43%) and >7 (33.33%), insignificantly higher than that of 5–7 (43.33%) (p=0.11) weeks of age. Length of the six Vietnamese DuCV genomes obtained ranged from 1,988 to 1,995 nucleotides. Among the six Vietnamese DuCV genomes, nucleotide identities were from 83.24% to 99.69%. Phylogenetic analysis of the complete genomes indicated that the DuCVs circulating in northern Vietnam were divided into two main genotypes I and II, and several subgenotypes. The Vietnamese DuCVs were closely related to the Chinese, Taiwanese, and Korean strains. One positive selection site of capsid protein was detected.
Knockdown long non-coding RNA PCAT7 inhibits proliferation, migration and invasion of luminal B breast cancer cells via cell cycle arrest
Authors: Zhu Fangyuan , Shao Yingbo , Chen Qi , He Yaning , Liu Chaojun , Nie Bing , Liu Hui
Published: March 2022

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and one of the leading causes of cancer death. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have shown that the dysregulation of long non-coding RNAs has vital effects on the progression of breast cancer. But the function of PCAT7 in luminal B breast cancer has not been explored. This study aims to investigate the expression of PCAT7 in luminal B breast cancer tissues and cell lines and the effects of PCAT7 knockdown in luminal B breast cancer cells. We found that PCAT7 was dramatically up-regulated in luminal B breast cancer tissues and related cell lines. Knockdown of PCAT7 significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion of luminal B breast cancer cells. Cell cycle assay showed that PCAT7 knockdown induced G0/G1 phase arrest of the luminal B breast cancer cells. Moreover, the relative expression of p27 protein significantly increased after PCAT7 knockdown. In conclusion, knockdown of PCAT7 inhibits the proliferation, migration, and invasion of luminal B breast cancer cells via cell cycle arrest.