bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive Quality Control for Constant Volume Depletion Laboratory Tests for Volatile Oils and Retrograde Gases
Authors: Spivey J. P.
Published: October 2020

Constant volume depletion (CVD) data are a primary tool in reservoir management of gas condensate and volatile oil reservoirs. Much time is spent tuning equations of state (EoS) to match lab data. If the lab data are invalid, that time has been wasted. Worse, predictions made with an EoS tuned to invalid lab data will lead to poor reservoir management and inaccurate forecasting. It is always important to avoid unnecessary expense, but especially so in the current economic environment.

In contrast to many laboratory tests, the CVD test includes a variety of different measurements, all of which must be internally consistent if the results are to be valid. In particular, the gas and liquid phases at each depletion step must be in equilibrium, and the data must preserve both overall mass balance and component-by-component molar balance.

Almost all published methods for quality-checking CVD data rely on some combination of the following: 1) comparing calculated and measured composition of the liquid remaining after the last depletion step to verify mass and/or mole balance; 2) calculating equilibrium ratios and preparing the Hoffman, Crump, Hocott plot to verify equilibrium; and 3) inspecting graphs of gas composition, liquid composition, and/or equilibrium ratios vs. pressure to ensure smooth behavior. Although not rigorous, as are the equilibrium and mass/mole balance criteria, there are a number of accurate correlations for various fluid properties that may be used in validating CVD test data.

As a result of this study: A workflow is proposed to provide an intensive quality check for CVD data. The workflow uses a variety of tools to verify that: a) mass and mole balances are satisfied, b) gas and liquid are in equilibrium at each depletion step, and c) physical properties of the relevant phases are consistent with accurate correlations for liquid density, Z-factor, and bubble point pressure.A new method is proposed for verifying the overall mass balance and component molar balance even when the composition of the liquid remaining after the final depletion step is not available.Each of the correlations used in the workflow have been evaluated using a small database of CVD test data that have been screened for validity, to determine which correlations work best for each physical property.New correlations are proposed for cumulative moles produced and for molecular weight of the C7+ fraction of the equilibrium gas.A new method for setting a more stringent constraint on the density of the liquid phase is proposed.Surprisingly, the presence of a straight line on the Hoffman, Crump, Hocott plot does not guarantee that the gas and liquid phases are in equilibrium as is commonly believed, nor does a straight line on a plot of log (ki) vs Tbi guarantee equilibrium.
From Formaiton Factors to Effective Connectivity of Rock Pores
Authors: Zhang Jie , Shen Weifeng , Zhang Tao , Zhang Jie
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this paper is to present the equations about intrinsic formation factor (F) developed from a series of experimental data that will provide a method to recognize both the additional conductivity and resistivity of the rocks. In the experiment, 14 pieces of core plugs in three categories of coarse-, medium- and fine-sandstones were selected and nearly 1,400 resistivity data were measured at various electrolyte salinities and frequencies in the range of 1,000 to 100,000ppm and 12Hz to 10,000Hz respectively. Overall more than a thousand values of Archie formation factors (Fr) were used for further analysis. As the experiments rely on the measurement of resistivity and conductivity, we used the concept of the change rate (differential) to introduce equations of formation conductivity change factor (Fc) and formation resistivity change factor (Fd) which respond to equivalent additional conductivities (Cx) and additional resistivities (Rx). Both Fc and Fd were verified by our laboratory results and published data. Furthermore, by plotting Fr, Fc and Fd together, some findings from their differences are interpreted. It is concluded that all the factors influencing formation factors can be categorized into two types: 1) Cx, which is connected in parallel to the pore network; 2) Rx, which is interconnected in series to the pore path. Fr is the formation factor sensitively influenced by both the additional conductivity and additional resistivity, and Fc is only influenced by the additional resistivities while Fd is only by the additional conductivities. The differences between Fr, Fc and Fd led to a solution to determine F, recognize the effects of Cx and Rx, and thereby extend the application of Archie's formation factor. We also argue that it is a more proper method to evaluate the effectiveness of reservoir pore system by considering the anisotropic pore connectivity shown in this study. It should be viewed as a standard protocol in the further studies.
Characteristics of Resting-State Functional Connectivity in Older Adults after the PICMOR Intervention Program: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Sugimoto Hikaru , Kawagoe Toshikazu , Otake-Matsuura Mihoko
Published: October 2020

Background: The present study aimed to provide a basis for future research examining the neural mechanisms that underlie the beneficial effect of an intervention program, Photo-Integrated Conversation Moderated by Robots (PICMOR), on verbal fluency in older adults as identified in our previous randomized controlled trial. In this preliminary report, we conducted an additional experiment using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) after the intervention period. Specifically, we investigated the resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) characteristics of the intervention group (INT) compared to the control group (CONT). Methods: rsfMRI data were acquired from 31 and 30 participants in INT and CONT, respectively, after the intervention. In the analyses, two of the most important regions in verbal fluency, the left inferior and middle frontal gyri, were selected as seed regions, and the rsFCs were compared between groups. We also conducted regression analyses for rsFCs using the difference in individual phonemic verbal fluency task (PVFT) scores between the pre- and post-intervention periods (i.e., post- minus pre-intervention) as an independent variable. Results: We found higher rsFC in INT than in CONT between the left inferior frontal gyrus as a seed region and the temporal pole and middle frontal gyrus. The rsFC strength between the left inferior frontal gyrus and temporal pole positively correlated with an increased PVFT score between the pre- and post-intervention periods. In contrast, we found lower rsFC in INT than in CONT between the left middle frontal gyrus as a seed region and the posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, and postcentral gyrus. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the beneficial intervention effect of PICMOR on verbal fluency is characterized by enhanced rsFC of the left inferior frontal gyrus with semantic and executive control-related regions and suppressed rsFC between the left middle frontal gyrus and posterior cortical midline structures. No definitive conclusions can be made because of a lack of rsfMRI data before the intervention. However, this pilot study provides the candidates for rsFCs, reflecting the beneficial effects of PICMOR on the brain network involved in verbal fluency. Trial registration: The trial was retrospectively registered at the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000036667) (May 7th, 2019).
Effect and safety of topical application of tranexamic acid to reduce perioperative blood loss in elderly patients with intertrochanteric fracture undergoing PFNA 
Authors: Wei Huiping , Xiao Qiuping , He Jianfeng , Huang Tianji , Xu Wantang , Xian Siping , Xia Menghong
Published: October 2020

Background: The specific method and dose of tranexamic acid (TXA) topically applied for intertrochanteric fractures have not been well established. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of TXA topically administered via our protocol for perioperative bleeding management in elderly patients with intertrochanteric fractures who underwent proximal femoral nail anti-rotation (PFNA).Methods: A retrospective comparative analysis was performed. The TXA group was composed of 82 patients with topical use of TXA, and the control group was composed of 82 patients without TXA use during the PFNA procedure. Intraoperative, total and hidden amounts of blood loss, drainage volumes, postoperative blood transfusion volumes and complications were compared between the two groups.Results: The intraoperative, total and hidden amounts of blood loss and the drainage volumes were significantly lower in the TXA group than in the control group (P=0.012, P<0.01, P<0.01, P=0.014, respectively). The volume and rate of blood transfusion in the TXA group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.01). There were no significant differences in complications between the two groups (P>0.05).Conclusion: Topical application of TXA offers an effective and safe option for reducing perioperative blood loss and transfusion in elderly patients with intertrochanteric fractures undergoing PFNA.
Two-stage Exchange Arthroplasty is a Viable Treatment for Periprosthetic Joint Infection in Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Jiang Qiao , Fu Jun , Chai Wei , Hao Li-Bo , Zhou Yong-Gang , Xu Chi , Chen jiying
Published: October 2020

Background Inflammatory diseases are chronic autoimmune systemic autoimmune diseases, which may increase the risk of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) after total joint arthroplasty (TJA). However, to our best knowledge, few studies have studied the association between inflammatory diseases and subsequent failure after two-stage exchange reimplantation. The aims of this study were to identify the differences in (1) serum markers, synovial indicators and pathology results and (2) treatment outcomes following two-stage exchange arthroplasty between patients with or without inflammatory diseases.Methods A retrospective review of 184 patients with PJI who underwent two-stage revision from 2014 to 2018 was conducted. PJI was diagnosed by using the MSIS criteria. Serum biomarkers, synovial fluid, organism and pathology results at the time of the PJI diagnosis and reimplantation were compared between patients with or without inflammatory diseases. Treatment success was defined according to the Delphi-based consensus criteria; Kaplan-Meier survivorship curves of the patients were generated and compared. Results There was no difference in the biomarkers, pathology results or organism profile at the time of the PJI diagnosis. At reimplantation, the patients with inflammatory diseases generally had higher values of serum markers than those without inflammatory diseases. However, synovial white blood cell count was comparable in patients with inflammatory diseases (1142.8±1385.3*109/mL) and group C (1315.8±1849.3*109/mL, p=0.841). The total treatment success rate was 91.3% (92% for individuals with inflammatory diseases and 91.2% for the controls). The survivorship of the inflammatory disease group was comparable with that of the control group.Conclusion Two-stage exchange arthroplasty is a viable option for PJIs with inflammatory diseases. Synovial fluid analysis may be less affected by inflammatory diseases than serum markers did in the diagnosis persistent infection at reimplantation.
Peri-acetabular bone remodelling after uncemented total hip arthroplasty with monoblock press-fit cups: an observational study
Authors: Anderl Conrad , Mattiassich Georg , Ortmaier Reinhold , Steinmair Martin , Hochreiter Josef
Published: October 2020

Background: Bone stock preservation in total hip replacement is essential to allow for later revisions in an increasingly younger and fitter index patient population. While contemporary modular press-fit acetabular cups lead to rigid fixation with equatorial stress and central osteolysis, more elastic fixation may cause different peri-acetabular bone remodelling. The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in peri-acetabular bone mineral density (BMD) in uncemented elastic fixation with monoblock press-fit cups.Methods: This prospective observational study included 45 patients with monoblock cups. We evaluated peri-acetabular BMD using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and reported functional outcomes and complications.Results: At a mean follow-up of 24.2 ± 2.2 months, we found that BMD stabilised in DeLee and Charnley zones I and III and recovered to baseline value in zone II. The mean Harris Hip Scores improved significantly from 56.9 ± 20.0 to 97.2 ± 4.0 (p < 0001). Other than one peri-operative dislocation, we saw no post-operative complications.Conclusions: We found favourable adaptive bone changes with BMD stabilisation in the equatorial zones and recovery to pre-operative values in the central zone. Additionally, excellent clinical outcomes and few prosthesis-related complications strengthened the favourable results of monoblock acetabular cups.Trial registration: Registration number DRKS00017076.
Stuck-moving Needle acupuncture the Myofascial Triggers Point to treat Idiopathic Frozen Shoulder: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: BAI YANG , Wang Ying , Chen Bo , QIN Yinan , Lei Qianqian , Zhao Hailong , Lu Jingbao , Fan Qian , Wang Yali , Song HongBo , Cheng Maomao , Wang Wei , Hu Shengen , Du YuanHao , Xia Tian
Published: October 2020

Background: There are evidence for the efficacy of acupuncture treatment for chronic shoulder pain, however, it remains unclear the best acupuncture modes for effective treatment. We compared the effect of the myofascial trigger point (MTrp) Stuck-moving Needle acupuncture with that of common acupuncture treatments. Further, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of stuck-moving needle acupuncture for the MTrp in improving pain and range of motions in patients with idiopathic frozen shoulder. The aim of present study is to select an effective therapy for patients with idiopathic frozen shoulder.Methods: Randomized controlled trial will be conducted in the three clinical centers of Qingyang Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Qingyang Xifeng district People's Hospital and Qingyang Second People's Hospital in China from February 2020 to January 2021. One-hundred and eight frozen shoulder patients will be recruited and randomized into one of three groups in a 1:1:1 ratio of the Stuck-moving Needle acupuncture group, Common acupuncture control group and physical exercise control group. This trial will include a 1-week baseline period, a 3-weeks of the treatment period, and a 12-weeks of the follow-up period. During the 3-weeks of the treatment period, patients will receive nine sessions of acupuncture. The primary outcome will be related to change in the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and measurement of range of joint motion (ROM) from the baseline period to the 12-week follow-up period. Secondary outcome measures will include, measurement of Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT), Pressure Pain Tolerance (PTT) Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), 36-item Short Form survey and Patient satisfaction evaluation. Adverse events also will be recorded for safety assessment.Discussion: The results of this trial will allow us to compare the difference in efficacy between Stuck-moving Needle acupuncture MTrP with that of common acupuncture treatments. The findings from this trial will be published in the peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration: Acupuncture-Moxibustion Clinical Trial Registry (ChiMCTR1900002862) and Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900028452). registered on 22, Dec. 2019
Effect of "motivational interviewing" and "information, motivation and behavioral skills” counselling interventions on choosing the mode of delivery in pregnant women: A study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shirzad Mahboubeh , Shakibazadeh Elham , Foroushani Abbas Rahimi , Abedini Mehrandokht , Poursharifi Hamid , Babaei Sohrab
Published: October 2020

Background: Caesarean Section is an important surgical procedure, when normal vaginal delivery imposes a risk to mother and/or baby. The World Health Organization states the ideal rate for Cesarean section to be between 10% and 15% of all births. In recent decades, the rate has been increased dramatically worldwide. This paper explains the protocol of a randomized controlled trial that aims to compare the effect of "motivational interviewing" and "information, motivation, and behavioral skills” counselling interventions on choosing mode of delivery in pregnant women.Methods: A four-armed, parallel-design randomized controlled trial will be conducted on pregnant women. One hundred and twenty women will be randomly assigned to four groups including three intervention groups and one control group. The intervention groups included: 1) motivational interviewing; 2) face-to-face information, motivation, and behavioral skills model; and 3) information, motivation, and behavioral skills model provided using a mobile application. The inclusion criteria include being literate, gestational age from 24 to 32 weeks, being able to speak Persian, having no complications in the current pregnancy, having no indications for Cesarean section, and having enough time to participate in the intervention. The primary outcome of the study is the mode of delivery. The secondary outcomes are women’s intention to undergo Cesarean section, and women’s self-efficacy.Discussion: The interventions of this protocol have been programmed to reduce unnecessary Cesarean sections. Findings may contribute to a rise in normal vaginal delivery; and the effective intervention may be extended for use in national Cesarean section plans.Trial registration: This study has been registered in Iran Randomized Clinical Trial Center (IRCT20151208025431N7). Registered December 07, 2018.
Physician Assistants in Geriatric Medical Care 
Authors: Kozikowski Andrzej , Honda Trenton J. , Segal-Gidan Freddi , Hooker Roderick
Published: October 2020

Background: The US population is maturing. As of 2020, over 52 million (16%) people are age 65 or older. With a citizenry that is increasingly "gray," the nation is short of medical providers who specialize in geriatric medical care. For example, the number of geriatrician physicians per 10,000 adults 65 years and older has decreased since 2000, with approximately 5,300 in 2018. Nurse practitioners in geriatric medical care numbered 598 in 2018. Considering that the projected needs by 2030 will be over 30,000, the trajectory of geriatricians is becoming increasingly inadequate for the aging population. Physician assistants (PA) are another class of providers that are filling this geriatric medical care role, although little has been published. To address this role of PAs a study was undertaken. Methods: The National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants databank provided the number and characteristics of PAs in geriatric medicine and compared them to all other certified PAs. Analyses included descriptive statistics, Chi-Square, and Wilcoxon Rank Sum tests for comparisons between PAs practicing in geriatric medical care vs. all other specialties. Where a comparison between PAs in geriatrics and other specialties was made, a P value of .05 or less was considered statistically significant. Results: As of 2018, there were 794 certified PAs, or 0.8% of the certified PA workforce, in geriatric medical care. This cadre has grown significantly since 2013, both in total number (increasing over 373%) and as a percentage of the PA workforce. The median age of certified PAs in geriatrics is 45 years, and 79% are female. Almost half (46%) of PAs in geriatric medicine work in extended care facilities or nursing homes, which differs from PAs in non-geriatrics care. Another 8% work in government facilities and 8% in rehabilitation facilities. In 2018, the mean annual income for this PA group was $106,680. Conclusions: As the American population continues to age, the relative growth of PAs in geriatric medicine makes them a natural part of the solution to the projected physician geriatrician deficit. The role of PAs in geriatric medical care remains to be explored.
The impact of disease-related immobilization on thigh muscle mass and strength in older hospitalized patients
Authors: Rommersbach Nikola , Wirth Rainer , Lueg Gero , Klimek Christiane , Schnatmann Mirja , Liermann Dieter , Janssen Gregor , Müller Manfred James , Pourhassan Maryam
Published: October 2020

Background: We assessed the quantitative changes in muscle mass and strength during two weeks of hospitalization in immobile and mobile acutely ill hospitalized older adults.Methods: 41 patients (82.4±6.6 years, 73.0% females) participated in this prospective longitudinal observational study. Mobility status was defined according to walking ability as described in the Barthel-Index. Functional status, including handgrip strength and isometric knee-extension strength, and mid-thigh magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements of cross-sectional area (CSA) were conducted on admission and at discharge. Results: Twenty-two participants (54%) were immobile and 19 (46%) mobile. In all, 54.0% and 12.0% were at risk of malnutrition and malnourished, respectively. The median time between baseline and follow-up for MRI scans were 13 days in mobile and immobile participants (P=0.072). Mid-thigh muscle and subcutaneous fat CSA significantly decreased by 3.9cm2 (5.0%, P=0.002) and 5.3cm2 (5.7%, P=0.036) during hospitalization whereas intermuscular fat remained unchanged in immobile subjects. No significant changes were observed in mobile patients. In a regression analysis, mobility was the major independent risk factor for changes in mid-thigh muscle CSA as a percentage of initial muscle area (P=0.022) whereas other variables such as age (P=0.584), BMI (P= 0.879), nutritional status (P=0.835) and inflammation (P=0.291) were not associated with muscle mass changes. There was a significant decrease in isometric knee extension strength (P=0.002) and no change in handgrip strength (P=0.167) in immobile patients whereas both parameters increased significantly over time in mobile patients (P=0.048 and P=0.012, respectively).Conclusions: Two weeks of disease-related immobilization result in a significant loss of thigh muscle mass and muscle strength in older patients with impaired mobility. Concomitantly, there was a significant reduction of subcutaneous adipose tissue in immobile older hospitalized patients whereas no changes were observed in intermuscular fat among these patients. These data highlight the importance of mobility support in maintaining muscle mass and function in older hospitalized patients.
A mixed-methods evaluation of the impact of a person-centered family planning intervention for community health workers on family planning outcomes in India
Authors: Diamond-Smith Nadia , McDonell Claire , Sahu Ananta Basudev , Roy Kali Prasad , Giessler Katie
Published: October 2020

Background: Person-centered quality for family planning has been gaining increased attention, yet few interventions have focused on this, or measured associations between person-centered quality for family planning and family planning outcomes (uptake, continuation, etc.). In India, the first point of contact for family planning is often the community health care worker, in this case, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs). Methods: In this study, we evaluate a training on person-centered family planning as an add-on to a training on family planning provision for urban ASHAs in Varanasi, India in 2019 using mixed methods. We first validate a scale to measure person-centered family planning in a community health worker population and find it to be valid. Higher person-centered family planning scores are associated with family planning uptake. Results: Comparing women who saw intervention compared to control ASHAs, we find that the intervention had no impact on overall person-centered family planning scores. Women in the intervention arm were more likely to report that their ASHA had a strong preference about what method they choose, suggesting that the training increased provider pressure. However, qualitative interviews with ASHAs suggest that they value person-centered care for their interactions and absorbed the messages from the intervention.Conclusions: More research is needed on how to intervene to change behaviors related to person-centered family planning. This study received IRB approval from the University of California, San Francisco (IRB # 15-25950) and was retrospectively registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04206527)
Retraction of transporting bone segment during Ilizarov bone transport
Authors: Han Xaofei , Ma Yunhong , Yin Qudong , Wu Yongwei , Wang Zongnan , Sun Zhenzhong , Gu Sanjun , Rui Yongjun
Published: October 2020

Background: Retraction of transporting bone segment (TBS) may occur when the fixator of the TBS is removed prior to full consolidation of the distracted callus, which has adverse effect on the healing of the docking site. However, there are few reports on the retraction of TBS. The purpose of this study is to analyze the causes and risk factors of the retraction of TBS. Methods: The clinical data of 37 cases with tibial bone defect treated by Ilizarov bone transport were analyzed retrospectively, in whom the TBS fixator was removed prior to full consolidation of the distracted callus and union of the docking site. Bivariate correlation was used to analyze relationship between the retraction distance of TBS and potential risk factors including age, gender, course, length of bone defect, number of operations, size of TBS, transport distance, timing and time interval of removal of TBS fixator. Risk factors with significant level were further identified using multivariate linear regression. Results: Bivariate correlation showed that the timing of removal was negatively correlated with the retraction distance, and the time interval and transport distance were positively correlated with the retraction distance（p<0.05), the age, gender, course, length of bone defect, size of TBS and number of operations were not correlated with the retraction distance（p>0.05). Multivariate linear regression of the 3 risk factors showed that the timing of removal and time interval were the main risk factors affecting the retraction distance (p<0.05), but the transport distance was not (p>0.05). Conclusion: The traction forces of TBS endured from the soft tissues and the unconsolidated distracted callus have elastic properties, which can make retraction of TBS. The timing of removal and time interval are the main risk factors of the retraction of TBS. In the case of early removal, another external fixation or quickly converted to internal fixation should be performed to avoid the adverse effect of more retraction.
Point prevalence mapping reveals hotspot for onchocerciasis transmission in the Ndikinimeki Health District, Centre Region, Cameroon
Authors: Aza’ah Afor René , Sumo Laurentine , Ntonifor Ngum Helen , Bopda Jean , Heumou Rolph Bamou , Djeunga Hugues Nana
Published: October 2020

Background: Ivermectin-based preventive chemotherapy (PC) is distributed annually to all at-risk populations eligible for ivermectin treatment to control and/or eliminate onchocerciasis. Information on the impact of mass ivermectin administration on onchocerciasis transmission is scanty, and it is tricky to appreciate the progress towards elimination and engage corrective measures. To fill that gap in the Centre Region in Cameroon, the current onchocerciasis endemicity level in the Ndikinimeki Health District after about two decades of mass treatments was assessed. Methods: A cluster-based cross-sectional survey was carried out in the Ndikinimeki Health District and all volunteers aged ≥ 5 years were (i) interviewed on their compliance to ivermectin over the past five years and (ii) underwent clinical (nodule palpation and visual search for onchocercal lesions) and parasitological examinations (skin snip) for onchocerciasis. Results: The overall Onchocerca volvulus prevalence was 7.0% (95% CI: 5.2–9.3%). The prevalence of the disease was significantly higher in the communities Kiboum 1 and Kiboum 2 compared to the other communities (highest prevalence in Makénéné Town Water: 8.5%; 95% CI: 2.3–20.4%) (χ2 = 51.314, df = 11, P = 0.0001). The proportion of systematic non-compliers to ivermectin was 23.3% (95% CI: 19.9–27.1%) among individuals interviewed. In the sentinel sites (Kiboum communities), onchocerciasis prevalence decreased from 95.2% (95% CI: 88.3–98.1%) to 23.7% (95% CI: 14.7–36.0%). Conclusions: This study has revealed that the Ndikinimeki Health District is hypo-endemic for onchocerciasis after about two decades of preventive chemotherapy. However, transmission is ongoing, with potential hotspots in the Kiboum 1 and Kiboum 2 communities, which are known as first-line communities (closest to the breeding sites of the vector). Alternative or complementary strategies to annual ivermectin appear compulsory to accelerate the momentum towards onchocerciasis elimination.
Cryopreserved, Thin, Laser-Etched Osteochondral Allograft Maintains the Functional Components of Articular Cartilage After Two Years of Storage
Authors: Rorick Carolyn B , Mitchell Jordyn A , Bledsoe Ruth H , Floren Michael L , Wilkins Ross M
Published: October 2020

Background : Despite improvements in treatment options and techniques, articular cartilage repair continues to be a challenge for orthopedic surgeons. This study provides data to support that the 2-year Cryopreserved, Thin, Laser-Etched Osteochondral Allograft (T-LE Allograft) embodies the necessary viable cells, protein signaling, and extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffold found in fresh cartilage in order to facilitate a positive clinical outcome for cartilage defect replacement and repair.

Methods: Viability testing was performed by digestion of the graft, cells were counted using a trypan blue assay. Growth factor and ECM protein content was quantified using biochemical assays. A fixation model was introduced to assess tissue outgrowth capability and cellular metabolic activity in vitro . Histological and immunofluorescence staining were employed to confirm tissue architecture, cellular outgrowth, and presence of ECM. The effects of the T-LE Allograft to signal bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (BM-MSC) migration and chondrogenic differentiation were evaluated using in vitro co-culture assays. Immunogenicity testing was completed using flow cytometry analysis of cells obtained from digested T-LE Allografts and fresh articular cartilage.

Results: Average viability of the T-LE Allograft post-thaw was found to be 94.97 ±3.38%, compared to 98.83 ±0.43% for fresh articular cartilage. Explant studies from the in vitro fixation model confirmed the long-term viability and proliferative capacity of these chondrocytes. Growth factor and ECM proteins were quantified for the T-LE Allograft revealing similar profiles to fresh articular cartilage. Cellular signaling of the T-LE Allograft and fresh articular cartilage both exhibited similar outcomes in co-culture for migration and differentiation of BM-MSCs. Flow cytometry testing confirmed the T-LE Allograft is immune-privileged as it is negative for immunogenic markers and positive for chondrogenic markers.

Conclusions: Using our novel, proprietary cryopreservation method, the T-LE Allograft retains excellent cellular viability, with native-like growth factor and ECM composition of healthy cartilage after two years of storage at -80 o C. The successful cryopreservation of the T-LE Allograft alleviates the limited availably of conventionally used fresh osteochondral allograft (OCA), by providing a readily available and simple to use allograft solution. The results presented in this paper supports clinical data that the T-LE Allograft can be a successful option for repairing chondral defects.
Surgical treatment of 125 cases with congenital diaphragmatic eventration in a single institution
Authors: Zhao Shengliang , Pan Zhengxia , Li Yonggang , An Yong , Zhao Lu , Jin Xin , Fu Jian , Wu Chun
Published: October 2020

Backgrounds

This study sought to investigate the clinical characteristics of congenital diaphragmatic eventration (CDE) and to compare the efficacy of thoracoscopy and traditional open surgery in infants with congenital diaphragmatic eventration.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 125 children with CDE(90 boys, 35girls; median age:12.2 months, range 1h-7years;body weight1.99-28.5kg,median body weight 7.87±4.40kg) admitted to our hospital in recent 10years,　and statistically analyzed their clinical manifestations and surgical methods.

Results

108 children in this group underwent surgery, of which 67 underwent open surgery and 41 underwent thoracoscopic diaphragmatic plication.107 patients recovered well postoperatively, except for 1 patient died of respiratory distress after surgery.Followed up for 1-9.5 years,107 patients had significantly improved preoperative symptoms.During follow-up, the location of the diaphragm was normal and no paradoxical movement was observed.Eleven of the 17 children who did not undergo surgical treatment did not see a decrease in diaphragm position after 1-6 years of follow-up.In the thoracoscopy group, the index data on the operation time, intraoperative blood loss, chest drainage time, postoperative mechanical ventilation time, postoperative hospital stay and postoperative CCU admission time were better than those in the open group.The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P＜0.05).

Conclusions

Clinical symptoms of congenital diaphragmatic eventration varied in severity. Patients with severe symptoms should be operated.Both thoracoscopic diaphragmatic plication and traditional open surgery can effectively treat congenital diaphragmatic eventration,but compared with open surgery, thoracoscopic diaphragmatic plication has the advantages of short operation time, less trauma, rapid recovery,　so it should be the first choice for children with congenital diaphragmatic eventration.
Traditional medicinal plants in South Tyrol (Northern Italy, Southern Alps) – Biodiversity and use
Authors: Petelka Joshua , Plagg Barbara , Säumel Ina , Zerbe Stefan
Published: October 2020

Background: Worldwide mountain regions are recognized as hotspots of ethnopharmacologically relevant species diversity. In South Tyrol (Southern Alps, Italy), and due to the region’s high plant diversity and isolated population, a unique traditional botanical knowledge of medicinal plants has flourished, which traces its history back to prehistoric times. However, changes in rural life and culture may threaten this unique biodiversity and cultural heritage. Our study aims to collect and analyze information on native plants used in traditional folk medicine, focusing on the preservation of botanical and cultural diversity.Methods: Data were collected through a review of published material that documents traditionally used medicinal plants of South Tyrol in order to capture the total diversity of plants and their usage. We evaluated different parameters, comprising the ethnobotanicity index (EI), ethnophytonomic index (EPI), relative frequency of citation (RFC), red list status, and regional legislation with regard to the plant species. Results: A total of 276 species, including 3 mushrooms and 3 lichens, were identified. These belonged to 72 families, most frequently to the Asteraceae, Rosaceae, and Lamiaceae. The most frequently cited species were Hypericum perforatum L., Urtica dioica L., and Plantago lanceolata L. According to 12 ICPC-2 disease categories, the most frequently treated human health symptoms were from the digestive and respiratory systems as well as the skin. A total of 27 species were listed as endangered, of which 16 are not protected and two are now already extinct. Among the 59 predominantly alpine species, 11 species are restricted to the high altitudes of the Alps and may be threatened by global warming. Conclusions: Our research revealed that the ethnobotanical richness of South Tyrol is among the highest in Italy and throughout the Alps. Nevertheless, it is evident that biodiversity and traditional knowledge have been heavily eroded. Furthermore, we point out particularly sensitive species that should be reconsidered for stronger protections in legal regulations.
The relationship between ratio of serum triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and frequency of sarcopenia in Chinese community adults
Authors: Wang Na , Chen Mengjun , Fang Danhong
Published: October 2020

Background In a previous study, the high ratio of serum triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) was relevant to a high risk of sarcopenia in Korean old males. In this study, the purpose was to discover the association in Chinese community adults.
MethodsChinese adults who had physical examinations from May 2016 to August 2017 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University were involved in this study. The univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were applied to evaluate possible effect.
ResultsIn total, 2613 adults were involved in the study, with 13.85% presenting sarcopenia. The separate results for TG and HDL-C displayed that OR for TG was 0.67(95%CI: 0.51-0.87), and OR for HDL-C was 1.97(95%CI: 1.49-2.61). Additionally, the ratio of TG/HDL-C was independently associated with sarcopenia status(OR: 0.63; 95%CI: 0.49-0.81).ConclusionsIt was indicative that TG was negatively associated with the frequency of sarcopenia in Chinese community population, but HDL-C was positively associated with it. Besides, the negative association was discovered between sarcopenia and TG/HDL-C ratio.
Characterization of the Serum Levels of Meteorin-like in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease and its Association with Inflammatory Cytokines
Authors: Gholamrezayi Afsane , Mohamadinarab Maryam , Rahbarinejad Pegah , Fallah Soudabeh , Barez Shekufe Rezghi , Setayesh Leila , Moradi Nariman , Fadaei Reza , Chamani Elham , Tavakoli Tahmine
Published: October 2020

Background: Meteorin-like (Metrnl) is an adipokine with insulin sensitizing and anti-inflammatory properties that has been discovered recently. The relation among Metrnl, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), and obesity has been unexplored yet. Methods: The present study was conducted on 54 healthy control, 42 Ulcerative Colitis (UC), and 43 Crohn's disease (CD) patients who were diagnosed by pathological examination. In all participants, serum levels of adiponectin, Metrnl, interleukin (IL)-6, and Tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) were measured using ELISA kits.Results: Metrnl concentration was considerably lower in both UC (85.25±36.55 pg/mL) and CD (76.93±27.92 pg/mL) patients in comparison to control (107.52 ± 35.33 pg/mL). In addition, it was seen that both patient groups have a decreased level of adiponectin compared to the controls. Besides that, the level of IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly greater in the patient groups. Moreover, the result showed that the level of Metrnl is inversely correlated with body mass index (BMI) in the controls and the patients. Metrnl levels are also inversely associated with IL-6, and TNF-α in both of the patient groups.Conclusions: The current study is the first one reporting the decreased levels of Metrnl in serum among patients with IBD, which is inversely related with BMI, TNF-α, and IL-6. These results suggested a possible relation of Metrnl with the pathogenesis of IBD, particularly through inflammatory process, although further studies are warranted to dissect the possible mechanism.
Nomogram-derived prediction of pathologic complete response (pCR) in breast cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT)
Authors: Pu Shengyu , Wang Ke , Liu Yang , Liao Xiaoqin , Chen Heyan , He Jianjun , Zhang Jian
Published: October 2020

Background Previous research results on the predictive factors of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) efficacy in breast cancer are inconsistent, suggesting that the ability of a single factor to predict efficacy is insufficient. Combining multiple potential efficacy-related factors to build a model may improve the accuracy of prediction. This study intends to explore the clinical and biological factors in breast cancer patients receiving NCT and to establish a nomogram that can predict the pathologic complete response (pCR) rate of NCT.Methods We selected 165 breast cancer patients receiving NCT from July 2017 to May 2019. Using pretreatment biopsy materials, immunohistochemical studies to assess estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2), and Ki-67 expression. The correlation between biological markers and pCR was analyzed. These predictors were used to develop a binary logistic regression model with cross-validation and to show the established predictive model with a nomogram.Results The nomogram for pCR based on lymphovascular invasion, anemia (HB≤120 g/L), ER, Ki67 expression levels and NCT regimen had good discrimination performance (area under the curve [AUC], 0.758; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.675-0.841) and calibration coordination. According to the Hosmer-Lemeshow test, the calibration chart showed satisfactory agreement between the predicted and observed probabilities. The final prediction accuracy of cross-validation was 76%.Conclusions We developed a nomogram based on multiple clinical and biological covariations that can provide an early prediction of NCT response and can help to quickly assess the individual benefits of NCT.
Financial burden impact quality of life among Filarial Pathology Patients
Authors: Asiedu Samuel Opoku , Kwarteng Alexander , Amewu Emmanuel Kobla Atsu , Kini Priscilla , Aglomasa Bill Clinton , Forkuor John Boulard
Published: October 2020

Background Human lymphatic filarial pathology is the main cause of disability and poverty among people living with the infection. The second goal of the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) is to manage the morbidity associated with the disease with the purpose of improving the quality of life of the patients. Consequently, the current study assessed the overall quality of life of lymphatic filariasis (LF) pathology patients in some selected endemic communities in rural Ghana. Method In the present study, the Lymphatic Filariasis Quality of Life Questionnaire (LFSQQ) was used to evaluate the effect of lymphatic filariasis on the quality of life of people, with the disease in nine (9) communities in the Ahanta West District of the Western Region of Ghana where mass drug administration is being implemented for the past twenty years. Pearson’s correlation, linear regression and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) analyses were used to assess the associations between the domains of LFSQQ instrument.Results Of the 155 study participants recruited, 115 (74.19%) were females and 40 (25.81%) males. A greater proportion of the study participants (40, 25.8%) were presented with stage two (2) lymphedema while only 2 patients had stage seven (7) lymphedema. The average of the overall quality of life scores of study participants was 68.24. There was a negative Pearson correlation (r = -0.504, p-value < 0.001) between the stage of lymphedema (severity of the disease) and the quality of life of the LF patients. In addition, a clear pattern of positive correlation (r = 0.71, p-value < 0.001) was observed between the disease burden and pain/discomfort domains of the study participants. Whereas the highest domain specific score (85.03) was observed in the domain of self-care, we noted that the environmental domain, which consists of the financial status was the lowest (45.94) among the study participants. Conclusion Our findings support previous works on the reduced quality of life among lymphatic filariasis patients with pathology. In this study, our results reveal a depressing financial condition among people presenting with late stages of LF pathologies, which eventually reduces their wellbeing.
Development of prognosis model for colon cancer based on autophagy-related genes
Authors: Wang Xu , Xu Yuanmin , Li Ting , Chen Bo , Yang Wenqi
Published: October 2020

Background: Autophagy is an orderly catabolic process for degrading and removing unnecessary or dysfunctional cellular components such as proteins and organelles. Although autophagy is known to play an important role in various types of cancer, the effects of autophagy-related genes (ARGs) on colon cancer have not been well studied.Methods: Expression profiles from ARGs in 457 colon cancer patients were retrieved from the TCGA database (https://portal.gdc.cancer.gov). Differentially expressed ARGs and ARGs related to overall patient survival were identified. Cox proportional-hazards models were used to investigate the association between ARG expression profiles and patient prognosis.Results: 20 ARGs were significantly associated with overall survival of colon cancer patients. Five of these ARGs had a mutation rate ≥ 3%. Patients were divided into high-risk and low-risk groups based on Cox regression analysis of 8 ARGs. Low-risk patients had a significantly longer survival time than high-risk patients (p < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that the resulting risk score, which was associated with infiltration depth and metastasis, could be an independent predictor of patient survival. A nomogram was established to predict 1-, 3- and 5-year survival of colon cancer patients based on 5 independent prognosis factors, including the risk score. The prognostic nomogram with online webserver was more effective and convenient to provide information for researchers and clinicians.Conclusion: The 8 ARGs can be used to predict the prognosis of patients and provide information for their individualized treatment.