bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Method of Formation Testing on Logging Cable
Authors: Lebourg M. , Fields R.Q. , Doh C.A.
Published: February 2020

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 210, 1957, pages 260–267.

A formation tester run on logging cable is now available to the oil industry. It offers a method of safely and rapidly testing possible producing formations in uncased holes. These tests can be made up the hole after running the electric log. Reservoir pressure data is continuously recorded at the surface as the fluid sample is extracted. The tester may be assembled with a reservoir of 1−, 2.75−, or 55-gal capacity.

A retaining pad on the body of the tool is expanded against the wall of the hole at the exact depth desired; this depth is determined by electrical log control. Two bullets are then fired through the center of the retaining pad which create a connection between the formation and a flow line to the sample chamber. When the chamber is filled, a valve is closed and the fluid sample sealed at maximum pressure. The tool is retracted to minimum diameter and brought out of the hole. Electrical circuits permit a complete recording at the surface of the mechanical operations of the tool as well as the formation pressure build-up and the hydrostatic mud pressure.

The tool was introduced commercially during the latter part of 1955 in the Gulf Coasts of Louisiana and Texas. Over 1,000 operations have been made to date (Sept. 1, 1956); 50 per cent of which resulted in successful tests. Failures have been due mostly to ineffective sealing in unconsolidated sands.

One major company had 41 successful tests out of 80 attempts with 23 ineffective pad seals. Results for this company were very gratifying as to pinpointing gas-oil ratios, indicating productive permeabilities and aiding in determination of fluid content where electrical log and side-wall coring information were inconclusive.

Eight typical pressure curves are discussed (including misruns).

Six types of fluid recoveries are interpreted.

Eight actual field examples of electric logs, showing the problems solved by the formation tester, are illustrated.
Neutron Capture Gamma-Ray Spectra of Earth Formations
Authors: Baker P.E.
Published: February 2020

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Vol. 210, 1957, pages 97–101.

Introduction

The commercial neutron-gamma log measures the intensity of gamma-rays produced by the interaction of neutrons with nuclei in the formation and in the bore hole. This measurement gives information concerning the distribution of neutrons around the neutron source, and in particular gives information on porosity or fluid content.

Another type of information is contained in the frequency or energy spectrum of the neutron capture gamma-rays. The capture gamma-rays of each element, in fact of each isotope, have only those energies characteristic of that isotope. The neutron capture gamma-ray spectrum, if obtainable, would permit the identification of the elements producing the spectrum. Such information would have considerable value in oilfield exploration work if it could be applied practically in well logging.

Experiments have been carried out at the La Habra Laboratory of California Research Corp. to determine the feasibility of a method of well logging in which neutron capture gamma-ray spectra are measured down hole. In these experiments, spectra were obtained for artificial formations under simulated borehole conditions, using actual borehole geometry. This paper will describe the experimental apparatus and methods and will present the spectrum curves for several formations.
Identification of Earth Materials by Induced Gamma-Ray Spectral Analysis
Authors: Muench N.L. , Osoba J.S.
Published: February 2020

Published in Petroleum Transactions, AIME, Volume 210, 1957, pages 89–92.

Research conducted previously has demonstrated that spectral analysis of gamma radiation from the naturally radioactive elements present in earth materials permits determination of the relative concentrations of these elements. This research suggested that spectral analysis of gamma radiation resulting from neutron bombardment of elements not normally radioactive might serve to identify these non-radioactive elements, and might permit their quantitative determination.

To investigate this possibility, laboratory experiments were conducted in which various earth materials were subjected to bombardment by neutrons from a polonium-beryllium source, and in which the spectra of the resultant gamma radiation were analyzed. The geometry of the laboratory system was designed to simulate wellbore conditions.

The laboratory work demonstrated that some elements not only can be identified with relative ease, but also can be determined quantitatively. This finding indicates that the use of an intense source of more energetic neutrons may lead to the identification and measurement of additional elements of interest by means of induced nuclear reactions.

Introduction

In recent years the applications of nuclear physics to the producing branch of the petroleum industry have become increasingly numerous. One significant development, an outgrowth of nuclear science which is of potential importance in well logging, has been the analysis of gamma-ray spectra of naturally radioactive elements in earth strata. The work of Brannon and Osoba has demonstrated that presently available equipment and techniques may be used to determine the relative concentration of thorium, potassium, and uranium in underground strata by means of gamma-ray spectral analysis.

Success of the research on spectral analysis of naturally radioactive elements suggested that spectral analysis of induced radioactivity might serve to identify, and perhaps measure quantitatively, those elements which normally are not radioactive, but which become radioactive on neutron bombardment. It was to investigate this possibility that the research described in the following sections was undertaken.
Increased soil moisture aggravated the competitive effects of the invasive tree Rhus typhina on the native tree Cotinus coggygria
Authors: Guo Xiao , Xu Zhen-Wei , Li Ming-Yan , Ren Xiao-Huang , Liu Jian , Guo Weihua
Published: February 2020

Background:Invasive exotic species have caused significant problems, and the effects of extreme precipitation and drought, which might occur more frequently under the global climate change scenarios, on interspecific relationship between invasive and native species remain unclear.Results:We conducted a greenhouse experiment with three soil water levels (30%–40%, 50%–60%, and 70%–80% of field capacity) and two cultivation treatments (monoculture pots, one seedling of either species and mixture pots, one seedling of each species) to investigate soil water content effects on the relationship between invasiveRhus typhinaand nativeCotinus coggygria.Rhus typhinahad lower height but bigger crown area thanC. coggygriain the monoculture treatment.Rhus typhinahad higher height, bigger crown area and total biomass thanC. coggygriain the mixture treatment. Drought decreased the growth parameters, total chlorophyll concentration, and leaf biomass, but did not change gas exchange and other biomass parameters inR. typhina. The growth parameters, leaf area index, biomass parameters, total chlorophyll concentration, and net photosynthetic rate ofC. coggygriadecreased under drought conditions. The log response ratio (lnRR), calculated as ln (total biomass of a target plant grown in monoculture / total biomass of a target plant grown in mixed culture), ofR. typhinawas lower than that ofC. coggygria. The lnRR ofR. typhinaandC. coggygriadecreased and increased with increase in soil water content, respectively.Conclusions:Rhus typhinahas greater capacity to relatively stable growth to the drought condition thanC. coggygriaand has strong competition advantages in the mixture withC. coggygria, especially in the drought condition. Our study will help understand the causes of invasiveness and wide distribution ofR. typhinaunder various moisture conditions and predict its expansion under climate change scenarios.
Bacillus velezensis LG37: Transcriptome profiling and functional verification of GlnK and MnrA in ammonia (NH4+) assimilation
Authors: Liu Guangxin , Vijayaraman Sarath Babu , Dong Yanjun , Li Xinfeng , Andongmaa Binda Tembeng , Zhao Lijuan , Tu Jiagang , He Jin , lin li
Published: February 2020

Background
In recent years, interest in Bacillus velezensis has increased significantly due to its role in many industrial water bioremediation processes, including the use of probiotics. In this study, we isolated and assessed the transcriptome of Bacillus velezensis LG37 (aquaculture pond) under different nitrogen sources. Since Bacillus species exhibit heterogeneity, it is worth investigating the molecular information of LG37 through ammonia nitrogen assimilation, where nitrogen in the form of ammonia is considered toxic to aquatic organisms.
Results
Here, a total of 812 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the transcriptomic sequencing of LG37 grown in minimal medium supplemented with ammonia (treatment) or glutamine (control) were obtained, from which 56 had Fold Change ≥ 2. BLAST-NCBI and UniProt databases revealed 27 out of the 56 DEGs were potentially involved in NH4+ assimilation. Among them, 8 DEGs together with the two-component regulatory system glnK/glnL were randomly selected for validation by quantitative real-time RT-PCR,and the results showed that expression of all the 8 DEGs are consistent with the RNA-seq data. Moreover, the transcriptome and relative expression analysis were consistent with the transporter (amtB) gene of LG37 and it is not involved in ammonia transport, even in the highest ammonia concentrations. Besides, CRISPR-Cas9 knockout and overexpression LG37 mutants of glnK further evidenced the exclusion of amtB regulation, suggesting the involvement of alternative transporter. Additionally, in the transcriptomic data, a novel ammonium transporter mnrA was expressed significantly in increased ammonia concentrations. Subsequently, OEmnrA and ΔmnrA LG37 strains showed unique expression pattern of specific genes compared to that of wild-LG37 strain.
Conclusion
Based on the transcriptome data, regulation of nitrogen related genes was determined in the newly isolated LG37 strain to analyse the key regulating factors during ammonia assimilation. Using genomics tools, the novel MnrA transporter of LG37 became apparent in ammonia transport instead of AmtB, which transports ammonium nitrogen in other Bacillus strains. Collectively, this study defines heterogeneity of B. velezensis LG37 through comprehensive transcriptome analysis and subsequently, by genome editing techniques, sheds light on the enigmatic mechanisms controlling the functional genes under different nitrogen sources also reveals the need for further research.
Return to Play After Hip Arthroscopy Among Tennis Players: Outcomes with Minimum Five-Year Follow-up
Authors: Maldonado David R. , Yelton Mitchell J. , Rosinsky Philip J. , Shapira Jacob , Meghpara Mitchell , Domb Benjamin
Published: February 2020

Background: Playing tennis is associated with various movements that can lead to labral injuries and may require arthroscopic surgery. While hip arthroscopies have demonstrated good outcomes in athletes, there is limited literature reporting Patient Reported Outcomes (PROs) and return to play in competitive or recreational tennis players after hip arthroscopic surgery. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to (1) report minimum five-year PROs and return to sport in tennis players who underwent hip arthroscopic surgery and (2) compare outcomes between recreational and competitive tennis players.Methods: Data for patients who underwent hip arthroscopy surgery in the setting of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and labral tears between March 2009 and January 2014 and who played tennis at any level within one-year of surgery were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with preoperative and minimum five-year postoperative scores for the following PROs were included: modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Non-Arthritic Hip Score (NAHS), Hip Outcome Score-Sport Specific Subscale (HOS-SSS), and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain. Patients with preoperative Tönnis osteoarthritis Grade >1, Workers’ Compensation claims, age > 60 years old, or previous ipsilateral hip surgeries or conditions were excluded. Patient Acceptable Symptomatic State (PASS) and Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID) for mHHS and HOS-SSS were calculated. Results: Of 28 patients, 31 hips met all inclusion and exclusion criteria of which 28 (90.3%) had minimum 5-year follow-up (mean: 72.8 ± 13.9 months). There were 3 professional, 3 collegiate, 2 high school, 2 organized amateur, and 18 recreational level tennis players. All PROs significantly improved at latest follow-up: mHHS from 67.0 to 86.7 (P < 0.001), NAHS from 65.9 to 87.2 (P < 0.001), HOS-SSS from 50.0 to 77.9 (P = 0.009), and VAS from 5.4 to 1.8 (P < 0.001). There was a 75.0% return to sport rate. Additionally, 66.7% of patients achieved MCID and 83.3% achieved PASS for mHHS, and 63.6% achieved MCID and 58.3% achieved PASS for HOS-SSS.Conclusion: Regardless of the level of participation, tennis players who underwent hip arthroscopic surgery reported statistically significant PRO improvements. A favorable rate of return to sport was also achieved by players with a continued interest in playing. The severity of cartilage damage was shown to not influence rate of returned to sport nor PROs in this population. The data here may be useful in counseling tennis players of various levels who are considering arthroscopic treatment of a hip injury.
Large mid-upper arm circumference is associated with metabolic syndrome in middle-aged and elderly individuals: a community-based study
Authors: Shi Jie , Yang Zhen , Niu Yixin , Zhang Weiwei , Li Xiaoyong , Zhang Hongmei , Lin Ning , Gu Hongxia , Wen Jie , Ning Guang , Qin Li , Su Qing
Published: February 2020

Background
The mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) is a proxy for subcutaneous fat in the upper body and is a reliable screening measure for identifying individuals with abnormal local fat distribution. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between MUAC and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in middle-aged and elderly individuals.
Methods
We measured the MUAC in a cross-sectional sample with a total of 9787 subjects aged 40 years and older. The measurement of MUAC is performed on the right arm using a non‐elastic tape held midway between the acromion and the olecranon processes in duplicate, with the arm hanging loosely at the side of the body. The MetS was defined according to the Joint Statement of the International Diabetes Federation Task Force on Epidemiology and Prevention.
Results
MUAC was positively correlated with waist circumference (r=0.437, P<0.001), BMI (r=0.334, P<0.001), fasting insulin(r=0.348, P<0.001), HOMA-IR (r=0.134, P< 0.001), triglycerides (r=0.138, P<0.001), SBP (r=0.124, P< 0.001), and DBP(r= 0.123, P<0.001), and inversely correlated with adiponectin (r=-0.147, P < 0.001) and HDL-cholesterol (r=-0.176, P<0.001) after adjusting for age and gender. Compared with the lowest quartile group, the odds ratios were substantially higher for MetS (OR 1.77; 95% CI 1.51-2.09, P for trend<0.001) in the highest MUAC quartile group after adjustment for potential cofounder.
Conclusion
Large mid-upper arm circumference is associated with metabolic syndrome in middle-aged and elderly individuals .
Ubiquitin-specific protease-44 inhibits the proliferation and migration of cells via inhibition of JNK pathway in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Jiangqiao , Wang Tianyu , Qiu Tao , Chen Zhongbao , Ma Xiaoxiong , Zhang Long , Zou Jilin
Published: February 2020

Background: Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is the most common form of adult kidney cancer. Ubiquitin-specific protease (USP)44 has been reported to be involved in various cancers. We investigated the function, role and molecular mechanism of USP44 in ccRCC.
Methods: Data obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas Data Portal and Gene Expression Omnibus database were analyzed to uncover the clinical relevance of USP44 expression and tumor development. USP44 function in the proliferation and migration of tumor cells was assessed by cellular and molecular analyses using ccRCC lines (786-O cells and Caki-1 cells).
Results: USP44 showed low expression in ccRCC cancer tissues compared with that in normal tissue. USP44 expression was negatively correlated with tumor stage, tumor grade, and patient survival . USP44 overexpression inhibited the proliferation and migration of 786-O cells and Caki-1 cells significantly. USP44 overexpression also prohibited cell proliferation by upregulating expression of P21, downregulating cyclin-D1 expression, and inhibiting cell migration by upregulating expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)2 and MMP9. USP44 knockdown enhanced the proliferation and migration of 786-O cells and Caki-1 cells. USP44 function in inhibiting the proliferation and migration of 786-O cells and Caki-1 cells was associated with phosphorylation of Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK).
Conclusion: USP44 may be a marker in predicting ccRCC progression. Inhibition by USP44 of the proliferation and migration of 786-O cells and Caki-1 cells is dependent upon the JNK pathway.
Increasing pelvic incidence is associated with more global sagittal imbalance in ankylosing spondylitis with thoracolumbar kyphosis: an observational retrospective study of 94 cases
Authors: Song Diyu , Zheng Guoquan , Wang Tianhao , Qi Dengbin , Wang Yan
Published: February 2020

Background: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients with kyphosis have an abnormal spinopelvic alignment and pelvic morphology. Most studies focus on the relationship of pelvic tilt (PT) or sacral slope (SS) and deformity, and relatively few studies have addressed the relationship between pelvic incidence (PI) and kyphosis in AS patients. The purpose of this study is to analyze the correlation between pelvic incidence (PI) and the spinopelvic parameters describing local deformity or global sagittal balance in AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis.Methods: A total of 94 patients with AS (91 males and 3 females) and 30 controls (27 males and 3 females) were reviewed. The mean age was 36.8 years in AS patients and 34.4 years in controls. Gender ratios and mean age were similar in both group. Sagittal spinopelvic parameters, including PI, PT, SS, thoracic kyphosis (TK), thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK), lumbar lordosis(LL), sagittal vertical axis(SVA), the first thoracic vertebra pelvic angle(TPA), spinosacral angle(SSA) and spinopelvic angle(SPA) were measured. The same spine surgeons measured all the parameters of the AS and control group. All the sagittal spinopelvic parameters were compared between the groups. The relationship between PI and other spinopelvic parameters was analyzed with Pearson correlation (r) and unary linear regression model.Results: All the sagittal parameters were found to be significantly different between AS patients and controls. Compared with the control group, the AS patients had significantly higher PI(47.4˚ vs. 43.2˚, P<0.001). Correlation analysis revealed that PI in AS patients was significantly positively correlated with TPA(r=0.533, R2=0.284, P<0.001), and negatively correlated with SPA(r=-0.504, R2=0.254, P<0.001). However, no correlations were found between PI and SVA, SSA, TK, TLK or LL in AS patients.Conclusion: This study revealed that increasing PI was significantly correlated with more global sagittal imbalance, not with the local deformity in AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis.
The Expression and Significance of mTORC1 in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Liu Yanli , Zheng Yarong , Zhou Yekai , Liu Yi , Xie Mengjuan , Meng Wenjing , An Meixia
Published: February 2020

Background: To investigate the expression and significance of mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1(mTORC1) in diabetic retinopathy(DR), and to find new targets and new methods for the treatment of DR.

Methods: A DR rat model was prepared by general feeding combined with intraperitoneal injection of 10% streptozotocin (60 mg/kg). The rats were randomly divided into a control group (NDM group) and a diabetes group (DM group). Three months later, the degrees of retinopathy was determined using hematoxylin and eosin staining, and the levels of p-S6, VEGF, and PEDF proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry and western blotting. Human retinal capillary endothelial cells (HRCECs) were cultured in high glucose(HG) conditions, then treated with rapamycin or transfected with siTSC1.The protein levels of p-S6 were assessed by western blotting. The 5-ethynyl-2´-deoxyuridine assay was used to detect cell proliferation, and the Transwell assay was used to detect cell migration.

Results: A DM rat model was successfully developed. The expressions of p-S6 and VEGF proteins were significantly increased in the DM group (p < 0.05), and the expression of PEDF protein was significantly decreased compared with the NDM group (p < 0.05). In vitro, the p-S6 protein, as well as cell proliferation and migration, in HG induced HRCECs were increased (p < 0.05) compared with the control (normal glucose) group (p < 0.05). After transfection with siTSC1 to activate mTORC1, the expression of p-S6, as well as cell proliferation and migration, were increased. In contrast, rapamycin decreased p-S6 expression, as well as proliferation and migration, in HG induced HRCECs compared to the control group (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: mTORC1 plays an important role in DR. After activation, mTORC1 induced expression of the p-S6 protein, regulated the expressions of VEGF and PEDF proteins, and changed the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells. The mTORC1 can therefore be used as a new target,as well as in the treatment of DR.
Commercial 4-Dimensional Echocardiography for Murine Heart Volumetric Evaluation after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Rutledge Cody A , Cater George , McMahon Brenda , Guo Lanping , Nouraie Seyed Mehdi , Wu Yijen , Villanueva Flordeliza , Kaufman Brett A
Published: February 2020

Background Traditional preclinical echocardiography (ECHO) modalities, including 1-dimensional motion-mode (M-Mode) and 2-dimensional long axis (2D-US), rely on geometric and temporal assumptions about the heart for volumetric measurements. Surgical animal models, such as the mouse coronary artery ligation (CAL) model of myocardial infarction, result in morphologic changes that do not fit these geometric assumptions. New ECHO technology, including 4-dimensional ultrasound (4D-US), improves on these traditional models. This paper aims to compare commercially available 4D-US to M-mode and 2D-US in a mouse model of CAL. Methods 37 mice underwent CAL surgery, of which 32 survived to a 4 week post-operative time point. ECHO was completed at baseline, 1 week, and 4 weeks after CAL. M-mode, 2D-US, and 4D-US were taken at each time point and evaluated by two separate echocardiographers. At 4 weeks, a subset (n=12) of mice underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging to serve as a reference standard. End systolic volume (ESV), end diastolic volume (EDV), and ejection fraction (EF) were compared among imaging modalities. Hearts were also collected for histologic evaluation of scar size (n=16) and compared to ECHO-derived wall motion severity index (WMSI) and global longitudinal strain as well as gadolinium-enhanced CMR to compare scar assessment modalities. Results 4D-US provides close agreement of ESV (Bias: -2.55%, LOA: -61.55 to 66.66) and EF (US Bias: 11.23%, LOA -43.10 to 102.8) 4 weeks after CAL when compared to CMR, outperforming 2D-US and M-mode estimations. 4D-US has lower inter-user variability as measured by intraclass correlation (ICC) in the evaluation of EDV (0.91) and ESV (0.93) when compared to other modalities. 4D-US also allows for rapid assessment of WMSI, which correlates strongly with infarct size by histology (r=0.77). Conclusion 4D-US outperforms M-Mode and 2D-US for volumetric analysis 4 weeks after CAL and has higher inter-user reliability. 4D-US allows for rapid calculation of WMSI, which correlates well with histologic scar size.
The efficiency and safety of recombinant factor VIIa for bleeding in patients without haemophilia: a meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhang Ying , Wang Yuting , Zhou Youfa , Li Jian , Zhou Haiyan
Published: February 2020

Background: Despite widely use of recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) for bleeding in patients without haemophilia, its efficiency and safety remain unclear. Therefore, we carried out a meta-analysis on this topic.
Methods: We searched Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PubMed and Embase, from January 2008 to July 2019 for randomized controlled trials on the topic. The results of this work are synthesized and reported in accordance with the PRISMA statement.
Results: Twelve trials met our inclusion criteria. rFVIIa over 200ug/kg reduced red blood cell (RBC) transfusions within 24 h by 232.34ml (95% confidence interval [CI]; -410.31 to -54.37). rFVIIa did not significantly reduce 30-day mortality (relative risk [RR], 1.00; 95%CI, 0.82-1.21), total thromboembolic events (RR, 1.13; 95%CI, 0.94-1.36), myocardial infarction (RR, 1.37; 95%CI, 0.92-2.05), deep vein thrombosis (RR, 0.83; 95%CI, 0.52–1.33), ICU staying (RR, 0.40; 95%CI, -1.28 to 2.07) and number of patients transfused RBC (RR, 0.94; 95%CI, 0.83-1.08). However, rFVIIa may increase the incidence of arterial thrombotic events (RR, 1.38; 95%CI, 1.08–1.77).
Conclusion: rFVIIa over 200ug/kg reduced RBC transfusions for bleeding in patients without haemophilia. However, it may increase the risk of arterial thrombotic events.
Antibacterial effect of silver nanorings
Authors: González-Fernández Sara , Lozano-Iturbe Víctor , García Beatriz , Andrés Luis J. , Menéndez Mª Fe , Rodríguez David , Vazquez Fernando , Martín Carla , Quiros Luis M
Published: February 2020

Background: The emergence and expansion of antibiotic resistance makes it necessary to have alternative anti-infective agents, among which silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) display especially interesting properties. AgNPs carry out their antibacterial action through various molecular mechanisms, and the magnitude of the observed effect is dependent on multiple, not fully understood, aspects, particle shape being one of the most important. In this article, we conduct a study of the antibacterial effect of a recently described type of AgNP: silver nanorings (AgNRs), making comparisons with other alternative types of AgNP synthesized in parallel using the same methodology.
Results: When they act on planktonic forms, AgNRs produce a smaller effect on the viability of different bacteria than nanoparticles with other structures although their effect on growth is more intense over a longer period. When their action on biofilms is analyzed, AgNRs show a greater concentration-dependent effect. In both cases it was observed that the effect on inhibition depends on the microbial species, but not its Gram positive or negative nature. Growth patterns in silver-resistant Salmonella strains suggest that AgNRs work through different mechanisms to other AgNPs. The antibacterial effect is also produced to some extent by the conditioning of culture media or water by contact with AgNPs but, at least over short periods of time, this is not due to the release of Ag ions.
Conclusions: AgNRs constitute a new type of AgNP, whose antibacterial properties depend on their shape, and is capable of acting efficiently on both planktonic bacteria and biofilms.
Cross-Sectional Study Of The Association Between Skin Tags And Vascular Risk Factors In A Bariatric Clinic-Based Cohort Of Irish Adults With Morbid Obesity
Authors: Fang Clarissa Ern Hui , Crowe Catherine , Murphy Annette , O’Donnell Martin , Finucane Francis Martin
Published: February 2020

Objective: Skin tags are associated with an insulin resistant phenotype but studies in White Europeans with morbid obesity are lacking. We sought to determine whether the presence of cervical or axillary skin tags was associated with increased cardiovascular risk in Irish adults with morbid obesity. We conducted a cross-sectional study of patients attending our Irish regional bariatric centre with a BMI ≥40 kgm-2(or ≥35 kgm-2 with co-morbidities). We compared anthropometric and metabolic characteristics in those with versus without skin tags.
Results: Of 164 patients, 100(31 male, 37 with type 2 diabetes, 36 on lipid lowering therapy, 41 on antihypertensive therapy) participated. Mean age was 53.7±11.3 (range 31.1-80)years. Cervical or axillary tags were present in 85 patients. Those with tags had higher systolic blood pressure 138.0±16.0 versus 125.1±8.3 mmHg, p=0.003) and HbA1c(46.5±13.2 versus 36.8±3.5 mmol/mol, p=0.017). Tags were present in 94.6% of patients with diabetes, compared to 79.4% of those without diabetes(p=0.039). Antihypertensive therapy was used by 45.8% of patients with skin tags compared to 13.3% without tags (p=0.018). In bariatric clinic attenders skin tags were associated with higher SBP and HbA1c and a higher prevalence of diabetes and hypertension, consistent with increased vascular risk, but lipid profiles were similar.
Differential expression of human papillomavirus 16-, 18-, 52-, and 58-derived transcripts in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Baba Satoshi , Taguchi Ayumi , Kawata Akira , Hara Konan , Eguchi Satoko , Mori Mayuyo , Adachi Katsuyuki , Mori Seiichiro , Iwata Takashi , Mitsuhashi Akira , Maeda Daichi , Komatsu Atsushi , Nagamatsu Takeshi , Oda Katsutoshi , Kukimoto Iwao , Osuga Yutaka , Fujii Tomoyuki , Kawana Kei
Published: February 2020

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a primary cause of cervical cancer. Although epidemiologic study revealed that carcinogenic risk differs according to HPV genotypes, the expression patterns of HPV-derived transcripts and their dependence on HPV genotypes have not yet been fully elucidated.

Methods

In this study, 382 patients with abnormal cervical cytology were enrolled to assess the associations between HPV-derived transcripts and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grades and/or HPV genotypes. Specifically, four HPV-derived transcripts, namely, oncogenes E6 and E6* , E1^E4 , and viral capsid protein L1 in four major HPV genotypes—HPV 16, 18, 52, and 58—were investigated.

Results

The detection rate of E6/E6* increased with CIN progression, whereas there was no significant change in the detection rate of E1^E4 or L1 among CIN grades. In addition, we found that L1 gene expression was HPV type-dependent. Almost all HPV 52-positive specimens, approximately 50% of HPV 58-positive specimens, around 33% of HPV 16-positive specimens, and only one HPV18-positive specimen expressed L1 .

Conclusions

We demonstrated that HPV-derived transcripts are HPV genotype-dependent. Especially, expression patterns of L1 gene expression might reflect HPV genotype-dependent patterns of carcinogenesis.
A selective p38α/β MAPKs inhibitor alleviates neuropathology and cognitive impairment by modulating microglia function in 5XFAD mouse
Authors: Gee Min Sung , Son Seung Hwan , Jeon Seung Ho , Do Jimin , Kim Namkwon , Ju Yeon-Joo , Lee Soo Jin , Chung Eun Kyoung , Inn Kyung-Soo , Kim Nam-Jung , Lee Jong Kil
Published: February 2020

Background: Chronic neuroinflammation, aggressive amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition, neuronal cell loss and cognitive impairment are pathological symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Regarding these symptoms, resolution of neuroinflammation and inhibition of Aβ-driven pathology might be one of the important strategies for AD therapy. Previous efforts to prevent AD progression have identified that p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) is a promising target for AD therapy. Especially, recent studies showed that pharmacological p38α MAPK inhibition improved memory impairment in AD mouse models. Methods: In this study, we explored the therapeutic potential of NJK14047, a selective p38α/β MAPKs inhibitor, using an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model, 5XFAD. The mice were injected 2.5 mg/kg NJK14047 or vehicle every other day for 3 months. Morris water maze task and histological imaging analysis were performed. Protein and mRNA expression levels were measured using immunoblotting and qRT-PCR respectively. In in vitro studies, the cytotoxicity of microglial conditioned medium and astrocyte conditioned medium on primary neurons were measured using MTT assay and TUNEL assay. Results: NJK14047 treatment downregulated phospho-p38 MAPK levels, decreased the amount of Aβ deposits, and prevented spatial learning memory loss in 9-month-old 5XFAD mice. Interestingly, we found the decreased pro-inflammatory conditions and increased expression of alternatively activated microglial markers and microglial phagocytic receptors. Furthermore, NJK14047 treatment reduced the number of Fluoro-jade B positive cells, a class of degenerating neurons, in the brains of 5XFAD mice. The neuroprotective effect of NJK14047 was further confirmed by in vitro studies. Conclusion: Taken together, a selective p38α/β MAPKs inhibitor NJK14047 successfully showed therapeutic effects in 5XFAD mice. Our data support that p38 MAPKs inhibition is a potential strategy for AD therapy and NJK14047 might be one of the promising candidates for AD therapeutics targeting p38 MAPKs.
The need for retroductive thinking in implementation sciences
Authors: Mukumbang Ferdinand C.
Published: February 2020

Background Evidence informing the practice of healthcare and health-related policymaking is predominantly obtained via deduction and induction. While the evidence obtained through these forms of reasoning, mostly from methodologically sound and controlled research environments, are in most part considered robust, they are usually decontextualized, making their adoption and implementation in open systems challenging. We illustrate how the use of retroduction in theoretically-informative empirical research provides evidence linked to the contextual features of its discovery, thus, enhancing learning and implementation. Methods Using a critical realist-informed evaluation study, we illustrate the application of retroductive thinking as a theoretically informative inferencing approach to develop mechanism-based causality context-linked explanatory theories. We expatiate on the application of counterfactual thinking, abductive reasoning and extreme case selection as valuable tools to enhance retroductive thinking. Results The application of counterfactual thinking, abductive reasoning and extreme case selection as tools of retroductive thinking are conceptualized to demonstrate how studies using retroduction can obtain context-linked evidence that can facilitate learning and implementation. Conclusion Obtaining evidence with discovery context provides practical knowledge for implementers to make contextual judgments about what is likely to work in under what likely contextual conditions, for what section of the population. The transcendental philosophical foundation of critical realism makes it favorable for obtaining context-linked explanatory theories through retroduction.
Right sleeve pneumonectomy for local recurrent lung cancer following right sleeve upper lobectomy with bronchoplasty: A case report
Authors: Hanaoka Jun , Kawaguchi Yo , Okamoto Keigo , Kaku Ryosuke , Ohshio Yasuhiko
Published: February 2020

Background Salvage surgery has been frequently performed, increasing the opportunity to actively perform surgery for recurrence after a function-preserving operation. However, re-operation after airway reconstruction surgery on the proximal side and the effect of prior treatment, such as radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy, make the operation more difficult. In addition, cases of sleeve pneumonectomy after sleeve lobectomy with bronchoplasty are uncommon. Case presentation A 71-year-old lung cancer patient underwent right upper sleeve lobectomy with bronchoplasty combined with perioperative chemotherapy about 11 years ago. A new undiagnosed right hilar mass that appeared 9 years post-operation showed a temporary response to radiotherapy but progressed thereafter. Sleeve pneumonectomy was completed 14 months after radiotherapy by the following procedures: dividing the right pulmonary artery at the proximal site under median sternotomy and then reconstructing the bronchus by telescoping the left main bronchus into the distal trachea after pneumonectomy under posterolateral thoracotomy. Conclusions Sleeve pneumonectomy could be safely performed under good vision using a two-stage approach as salvage surgery, even in high-risk patients who received various treatments and proximal airway reconstruction.
Effect of small photon field on dose distribution in transverse magnetic field: A Monte Carlo study
Authors: Fu Jiaqi , Ni Cheng , Liu Yanfang , Zhou Jingjie , Fu Jie
Published: February 2020

Background To investigate the effect of small photon field on dose distribution in transverse magnetic field by simulating the dose distribution on homogenous and heterogenous phantoms. Methods EGsnrc simulation was used to calculate the dose distribution of four phantoms irradiated by small photon field in transverse magnetic field B=0T , B=0.35T and B=1.5T . The photon beams were based on the phase space file of Varian Clinac_iX 6MV from the IAEA's online accelerator phase space database. The size of beams was 0.5cm×0.5cm , 1cm×1cm , 2cm×2cm and 4cm×4cm , respectively. Results In homogenous water phantom and 1.5T magnetic field, the distance of the dose build-up region decreased by 4mm compared with that without magnetic field. At the edge of the water phantom, the dose of central axis changed a 1.7% decrease in the field of 0.5cm×0.5cm to a 27% increase in the field of 4cm×4cm .The lateral profiles shifted by 1-3mm and the dose penumbra had asymmetry. In 0.35T magnetic field, the effect of magnetic field was insignificant. In water-air and water-lung phantom, the dose at the water-air and water-lung interface increased by 24.2%, 30.9%, respectively. However, at the air-water and lung-water interface, it decreased by 10.9% and 29.9% in the field of 2cm×2cm . In 0.35 T magnetic field, there was no significant change in the dose at the interface. In water-bone phantom, the dose at the water-bone interface increased. Conclusions In 1.5T magnetic field, when the field was small, the shift of lateral profile was obvious and the dose penumbra had asymmetry. At the interface of different tissue, the dose change depends on the size of the field, the strength of magnetic field and the change of tissue density. The effect of the magnetic field on the dose distribution needs to be considered during optimizing a treatment plan, to avoid dose hotspots at normal tissues.
Fluorescence labeling of a NaV1.7-targeted peptide for near-infrared nerve visualization
Authors: Gonzales Junior , Pirovano Giacomo , Chow Chun Yuen , Franca Paula Demetrio de Souza , Carter Lukas M. , Klint Julie Kaae , Guru Navjot , Lewis Jason S. , King Glenn F. , Reiner Thomas
Published: February 2020

Purpose Accidental peripheral nerve injury during surgical intervention results in a broad spectrum of potentially debilitating side effects. Tissue distortion and poor visibility can significantly increase the risk of nerve injury with long-lasting consequences for the patient. We developed and characterized Hs1a-FL, a fluorescent near-infrared molecule for nerve visualization in the operating theater with the aim of helping physicians to visualize nerves during surgery.Methods Hs1a was derived from the venom of the Chinese bird spider, Haplopelma schmidti , and conjugated to Cy7.5 dye. Hs1a-FL was injected intravenously in mice and harvested nerves were imaged microscopically and with epifluorescence.Results Hs1a-FL showed specific and stable binding to the sodium channel Na v 1.7, present on the surface of human and mouse nerves. Hs1a-FL allowed epifluorescence visualization of sciatic mouse nerves with favorable nerve-to-muscle contrast.Conclusions Fluorescent Na v 1.7-targeted tracers have the potential to be adopted clinically for the intraoperative visualization of peripheral nerves during surgery, providing guidance for the surgeon and potentially improving the standard of care.
Factors Associated with history of Fall among Elderly people in Southern West Bank
Authors: Natour Nihal , Jaradat Alaa , Badrasawi Manal
Published: February 2020

Background Elderly men and women have higher risk of fall due to various factors including malnutrition, decreased muscle mass, decreased functional capacity, cognitive impairment and depression. Among Palestinian older adults fall history yet to be studied in term of prevalence and correlates. Objective The primary objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of fall and the differences in fallers and non-fallers among a group of Palestinian elderly living in rural areas in Southern West Bank region of Hebron. Methods The study included 142 participants from two villages: Se'ar and Bani Na'em , Hebron governance. Demographic variables and fall history was collected by a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Anthropometric measurement were used to assess nutritional status; physical function was assessed by activity of daily living and instrumental activity of daily living, level of fitness was assessed using senior fitness test. Geriatric scale for depression was used to assess depression and Montreal cognitive assessment test was used to evaluate mild cognitive impairment. Results : 51.7% of study participants were females, the mean age 69.5± 5.7 years old. Positive fall history was present among 11.7% mostly females. Significant relationship with fall was found with larger waist and hip circumference, cognitive impairment, higher level of dependency and slower performance in time up and go (TUG) p<0.05. Conclusion Fall history has considerable prevalence among the study sample and it is correlated with nutritional status, cognitive and physical function. The findings of the study recommend educational and intervention programs to enhance the nutritional status, physical fitness and cognitive function among Palestinian elderly. Further research are needed to determine the risk factors of fall utilizing longitudinal study design and intervention studies to optimize intervention model to enhance the health status and decrease the risk of fall.
An Analysis of the Productivity of the textile and clothing industries in Cameroon
Authors: bertrand nguenda anya saturnin
Published: February 2020

The objective of this study is to evaluate the productivity of industries of the textile and clothing industry in Cameroon. The study methodology is based on the Hicks-Moorsteen productivity index measured. The data used is from the General Enterprise Survey (RGE) performed in 2009, the General survey of Operators of the Cotton, Textile and Clothing sectors (ROCTC) performed in 2014 and the Survey of the Informal Sector and Employment (EESI) carried out in 2005 and 2010. The results of the evaluation of the productivity of the textile and clothing industry reveal many findings. Firstly, textile firms of the formal sector are witnessing a fall in productivity. For the textile sub-sector, the average variation of productivity is 72.96%. Secondly, firms of the clothing industry witness an increase of 13.19% in the average productivity during the study period. Thirdly, for the informal sector, the analysis of the productivity of textile companies reveals a significant drop in productivity as a whole. In fact, the average variation of the total productivity of the factors is 47.06%, showing a fall in productivity of approximately 52.03%. In the case of companies of the clothing industry, the variation of the average productivity is 56.69%, that is to say a fall of 43.31% in productivity.
Diterpene 16-hydroxycleroda-3,13-dien-15,16-olide emerges non-canonical autophagic cell death in doxorubicin-resistant lung cancer
Authors: Chiu Wei-Jun , Lin Shian-Ren , Wu Chia-Jen , Lin Chun-Shu , Busa Prabhakar , Long Hui , Chen Ching-Cheng , Tseng Feng-Jen , Weng Ching Feng
Published: February 2020

Background: The antitumor activity of HCD has been reported in numerous types of cancers. Moreover, the antitumor of HCD could also be applied in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells and further act on doxorubicin-resistant (Dox-R) of NSCLC cells. The underlying anti-cancer mechanism of HCD on Dox-R versus Dox-sensitive (Dox-S) of A549 cells was under this investigation. Methods: Cytotoxicity of HCD against two cell lines (Dox-S and Dox-R) were determined via MTT assay, flow cytometry, and Western blot; and further examination of its anti-cancer efficacy in A549-bearing xenograft mice via orthotopic intratrachea (IT) inoculation. Result: Regardless sensitive and resistant to Dox, HCD could arrest both Dox-S and Dox-R cells at G 2 /M phase without altering the sub-G 1 cycle along with increasing cleaved-PARP. HCD downregulated the mTOR/Akt/PI3K-p85 and PI 3 K-ClassIII/Beclin-1 and upregulated p62/LC3-I/II expressions, further confirmed the cell autophagy after HCD-induced. Morphological observations of the mouse lung sections illustrated that fewer cancer cells accumulated around the trachea while there were less neoplastic activities found in HCD orthotopic treatment mice without liver, kidney and spleen toxicity. Conclusion: HCD exhibited the chemotherapeutic potential for lung cancer in Dox-resistant cells, suggesting natural autophagic inducer HCD provides a promising clue of new drug discovery and development for lung cancer therapy.
Exploring Nursing Students' Experiences of Blindness Simulation: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Nasrabadi Alireza Nikbakht , Malek Masoomeh , Shali Mahbobeh , Jafari Haleh
Published: February 2020

Background: Simulation-based teaching skill is important for nurses who care for blind patients. Nurses should be able to understand their clients in order to provide them with better care. Also, better understanding of blindness enables nurses to take a more appropriate approach in dealing with blind patients and solving their problems. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of blindness simulation among a group of nursing students.Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using an interpretive phenomenological method. Using purposeful sampling method, 8 participants were selected to share their experiences regarding blindness simulation through individual in-depth and semi-structured interviews. The transcribed interviews were analyzed by Diekelmann’s approach.Results: The results of data analysis resulted in three main categories and nine subcategories, which were conceptually named based on their nature. The main categories included; abandoned in the labyrinth of life, seeing with the eyes of heart, and personality alienation.Conclusions: The findings of this study provide a clear picture of students' experiences of blindness simulation. Understanding students' descriptions and perceptions of visually impaired patients in different aspects can provide valuable data in reducing and removing existing problems and planning to improve the quality of care. Therefore, improving and modifying care plan can guarantee the quality of professional services provided to patients.