bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Field-Scale Numerical Investigation of Proppant Transport among Multicluster Hydraulic Fractures
Authors: Mao Shaowen , Zhang Zhuo , Chun Troy , Wu Kan
Published: November 2020

Plug-and-perforation (P-n-P) completion has been widely used in horizontal wells for the development of unconventional reservoirs. In the field, uneven proppant distribution among different fractures within a fracturing stage has been frequently observed in P-n-P treatments, leaving a large portion of reservoir volume understimulated. In this paper, an efficient 3D multiphase particle-in-cell (MP-PIC) method has been used to simulate proppant transport among multiple fractures (fracture near the heel, middle fracture, fracture near the toe) at the field scale. This work studies the fundamental physics of the proppant transport process and reveals the mechanisms of uneven proppant placement, giving strategies to improve the proppant placement.

Before applying the MP-PIC method to field-scale problems, we conducted indoor experiments to validate the model. The simulation results show an excellent agreement with the vertical slot experimental results. After model validation, we used the MP-PIC method to directly simulate the field process of proppant transport, involving slurry transport from the wellbore through perforation holes and finally into fractures. A base case with three fractures in a stage was first established to calculate the percentage of proppant mass distribution in each fracture. Then, we performed the sensitivity analysis of both proppant size and injection rate to investigate their effects on proppant placement.

The results reveal that all the cases tend to have a heel-biased proppant distribution among three fractures, which agrees with the field observations. There are two reasons for the heel-biased proppant distribution. First, at the very beginning of the injection, more proppants tend to flow toward the toe side because of large momentum. As more and more proppants move to the toe side, the concentration near the toe side gradually increases, which adds flow resistance to the newly injected proppants. Therefore, most newly injected proppants will go to the first fracture. The second reason comes from the fracture geometry. Because the first fracture has the largest fracture width among three fractures, it has the smallest flow resistance for proppant transport. More slurry will flow into the first fracture. Apart from giving explanations for the heel-biased distribution, we also suggest some strategies to improve the proppant distribution. The sensitivity analysis shows that the strong heel-biased proppant distribution can be mitigated by optimizing the proppant size and injection rate.

Our study for the first time conducts a field-scale numerical investigation of proppant transport in the wellbore-fracture system during P-n-P treatments. The results can provide us with more insights into the optimization of fracture design in field practice.
Comparison of the Songs of Cassin’s and Plumbeous Vireos
Authors: Pandolfino Edward R. , Ray Chris
Published: November 2020

We compared the songs of Cassin’s (Vireo cassinii) and Plumbeous (V. plumbeus) Vireos to determine if there are characteristics that could allow one to confidently distinguish between these species by song. Using recordings made in the breeding season and within the undisputed breeding ranges of each species, away from the zone of contact, we compared five characteristics of a song: phrase length, rate of phrase delivery, proportion of frequency-modulated (buzzy) phrases, proportion of doubled phrases, and midpoint frequency between the highest and lowest frequencies of a phrase. Among these, the only character in which the species differed significantly was the average midpoint frequency of song phrases. Despite overlap between the species in the distribution of average midpoint frequency, a criterion of 3215 Hz allowed ~84% of the vireo songs in our sample to be identified correctly. We also tabulated expected proportions of true and false positive species identifications based on the full range of average midpoint frequencies likely to be encountered, finding that values >3410 Hz have a >95% probability of representing Cassin’s Vireo, and values <3050 have a >95% probability of representing the Plumbeous Vireo. Various field guides show conflicting breeding ranges for these species, and there are many field reports of both vireos outside their known breeding ranges in the breeding season. Given that visual identification of these birds in the field can be difficult when individuals are in faded spring/summer plumage, song may allow us to better define the actual limits of these species’ breeding ranges.
Dose-related biphasic effect of the Parkinson’s disease neurotoxin MPTP, on the spread, accumulation, and toxicity of α-synuclein
Authors: Haque M Emdadul , Merghani Madiha Mohieldin , Ardah Mustafa T. , Kitada Tohru
Published: November 2020

Background: 1-methyl, 4-phenyl, 1,2,3,6 tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), a mitochondrial neurotoxin, has been used previously to generate a PD mouse model. However, MPTP does not induce Lewy bodies or α-syn aggregation in mice. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of different doses of MPTP (10 mg/kg.b.wt and/or 25 mg/kg.b.wt) on the spread, accumulation, and toxicity of endogenous α-syn in mice administered an intrastriatal injection of human α-syn PFFMethods: We inoculated human WT α-syn PFF in mouse striatum. At 6 weeks post PFF injection, we challenged the animal with two different doses of MPTP (10 mg/kg.b.wt and 25 mg/kg.b.wt) once daily for five consecutive days. At 2 weeks from the start of the MPTP regimen, we collected the mice brain and performed immunohistochemical analysis, and Rotarod test to assess motor coordination and muscle strength before and after MPTP injection.Results: A single injection of human WT α-syn PFF in the mice striatum induced the propagation of α-syn, occurring as phosphorylated α-synuclein (pS129), towards the SNpc, within a very short time. Injection of a low dose of MPTP (10 mg/kg.b.wt) at 6 weeks post α-syn PFF inoculation further enhanced the spread, whereas a high dose of MPTP (25 mg/kg.b.wt.) reduced the spread. Majority of the accumulated α-syn were proteinase K resistant, as recognized using a conformation-specific α-syn antibody. Injection of α-syn PFF alone caused 12% DA neuronal loss while α-syn PFF + a low dose of MPTP caused 33% loss, compared to the control mice injected with saline. Interestingly, a low dose of MPTP alone did not cause any significant DA cell death compared to saline treatment. Animals that received α-syn PFF and a high dose of MPTP showed massive activation of glial cells and decreased spread of α-syn, majority of which were detected in the nucleus. Conclusion: Our results suggest that a combination of human WT α-syn PFF and a low dose of MPTP increases the pathological conversion and propagation of endogenous α-syn, and neurodegeneration, within a very short time. Our model can be used to study the mechanisms of α-syn propagation and screen for potential drugs against PD.
Human Injury causing Road Traffic Accident at Debre Markos Town
Authors: Tilaye Wubetie Habtamu
Published: November 2020

Objective: A Road traffic accident (RTA) is when in a road Vehicle collides with another Vehicle, pedestrian, animal or geographical or architectural obstacle. The RTAs can result in human injury, property damage and death. RTA result in the deaths of 1.2 million people worldwide each year and injuries about 4 times this number. The objective of this study is to identify the main causing-factors that contribute to road traffic accidents involving human injuries. Literature suggested factors considered for analysis are: Driver's Age, Driver’s Education status, Driver's experience, Vehicle type, Driver Vehicle Ownership, Vehicle year of service, Road type, Road division, Road condition, Problem with car, Weather condition, and accident time (day or night). Results: Among the candidate variables, Pearson Chi-Square method identified weather condition, driver’s experience, Vehicle year of service; Road division, Driver Vehicle Ownership, and accident time (day or night ) as significantly associated variables. Furthermore, percentage is used to describe the magnitude of associated variable. The result from Poisson regression analyses revealed that low driver experience, high Vehicle year of service (old cars), and Road division (one way road) are the significant contributing factors for increment of human injuries accidents.
Performance of Xpert® MTB/RIF in diagnosing tuberculous pleuritis using thoracoscopic pleural biopsy
Authors: Li Chengjun , Liu Chang , Sun Bingqi , Zhang Wei , Wang Yang , Sun Jiao , Ma Fang , Chen Yu
Published: November 2020

Background: Etiological diagnosis of tuberculous pleuritis is challenging, owing to a paucity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) in the affected region. Moreover, currently available methods, such as the detection of acid-fast bacilli and microbiological culture, are not always conducive to timely diagnosis and treatment. In this study, we evaluated the performance of Xpert® MTB/RIF assay (hereinafter referred to as “Xpert”) in detecting MTB in difficult-to-diagnose patients using suspensions of pleural biopsy tissue specimens obtained under direct thoracoscopic guidance.Methods: One hundred and sixty patients with an unexplained pleural effusion were included from the Shenyang Tenth People’s Hospital and Shenyang Chest Hospital, China, between 2017 and 2018. The included patients underwent thoracoscopy under local anesthesia, with an intercostal incision of approximately 1.0 cm for biopsy. The biopsy specimens were used for pathological and etiological examinations. The Xpert test was evaluated for its sensitivity and specificity, as well as positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV, respectively), against data obtained using standards: the BACTEC™ MGIT™ 960 liquid culture system and a composite reference standard (CRS).Results: The sensitivity and specificity of Xpert were 68.8% and 64.6%, respectively, against the MGIT 960 culture data. The PPV and NPV of Xpert were 56.4% and 75.6%, respectively. The sensitivity of Xpert was 69.0% against the CRS data, which was significantly higher than that of MGIT 960 culture (56.6%). The PPV and NPV of Xpert against the CRS data were 100.0% and 57.3%, respectively.Conclusions: Xpert is a good rule-in test but has limited value as a rule-out test for the diagnosis of tuberculosis pleuritis.
QTL Mapping of Agronomic and Economic Traits for Four F2 Populations in Upland Cotton
Authors: Li Hongge , Pan Zhaoe , He Shoupu , Jia Yinhua , Geng Xiaoli , Chen Baojun , Wang Liru , Pang Baoyin , Du Xiongming
Published: November 2020

Background: Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) accounts for more than 90% of annual world cotton output due to its high yield potential. However, yield traits and fiber quality traits exhibit negative correlations in most cases. Here, we constructed four F2 populations, using two normal lines and two introgression lines, for simultaneously detection the genetic basis underlying complex traits such as yield and fiber quality in upland cotton. Subsequently, the phenotyping of 8 agronomic and economic traits along with quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping was implemented. Results: Extensive phenotype variations and transgressive segregation were found across segregation populations. Four genetic maps were constructed with the length of 585.97cM, 752.45cM, 752.45cM and 1 163.66cM. A total of 50 QTLs were identified across four populations (7 for plant height, 27 for fiber quality traits and 16 for yield traits). The same QTLs were identified from different populations such as qBW4 and qBW2 which were linked to common markers. A QTL cluster was characterized in D09 of population 4Su which contained 8 QTLs for 6 different traits. Conclusions: These findings will provide insight into the genetic basis of simultaneous improvement of yield and fiber quality in upland cotton breeding.
Evaluating the Impact of Social Deprivation on Press Ganey® Outpatient Medical Practice Survey Scores
Authors: Stephens Andrew R , Potter Jared W , Tyser Andrew R , Kazmers Nikolas H
Published: November 2020

Background: Social deprivation has been shown to affect access to health care services, and influences outcomes for a variety of physical and psychological conditions. However, the impact on patient satisfaction remains less clear. The objective of this study was to determine if social deprivation is an independent predictor of patient satisfaction, as measured by the Press Ganey® Outpatient Medical Practice Survey (PGOMPS). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed unique new adult patient (≥18 years of age) seen at a tertiary academic hospital and rural/urban outreach hospitals/clinics between January 2014 and December 2017. Satisfaction was defined a priori as achieving a score above the 33rd percentile. The 2015 Area Deprivation Index (ADI) was used to determine social deprivation (lower score signifies less social deprivation). Univariate and multivariable binary logistic regression were used to determine the impact of ADI on PGOMPS total and provider sub-scores while controlling for variables previously shown to impact scores (wait time, patient age, sex, race, specialty type, provider type, and insurance status).Results: Univariate analysis of PGOMPS total scores revealed a 4% decrease in odds of patient satisfaction per decile increase in ADI (p < 0.001). Patients within the most deprived quartile were significantly less likely to report satisfaction compared to the least deprived quartile (OR 0.79, p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis revealed that the odds of achieving satisfaction decreased 2% for each decile increase in ADI on the Total Score (p < 0.001), independent of other variables previously shown to impact scores. For PGOMPS Provider Sub-Score, univariate analysis showed that patients in the lowest ADI quartile were significantly less likely be satisfied, as compared to the least deprived quartile (OR 0.77; 95% CI 0.70 to 0.86; p < 0.001). A 5% decrease in a patient being satisfied was observed for each decile increase in ADI (OR 0.95; 95% CI 0.94 to 0.96; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Social deprivation was an independent predictor of outpatient visit dissatisfaction, as measured by the Press Ganey® Outpatient Medical Practice Survey. These results necessitate consideration when developing health care delivery policies that serve to minimize inequalities between patients of differing socioeconomic groups.
Sharing genomic data from clinical testing with researchers: public survey of expectations of clinical genomic data management in Queensland, Australia.
Authors: Vidgen Miranda Emily , Kaladharan Sid , Malacova Eva , Hurst Cameron , Waddell Nicola
Published: November 2020

Background: There has been considerable investment and strategic planning to introduce genomic testing into Australia’s public health system. As more patients’ genomic data is being held by the public health system, there will be increased requests from researchers to access this data. It is important that public policy reflects public expectations for how genomic data that is generated from clinical tests is used. To inform public policy and discussions around genomic data sharing, we sought public opinions on using genomic data contained in medical records for research purposes in the Australian state of Queensland.Methods: A total of 1,494 participants completed an online questionnaire between February and May 2019. Participants were adults living in Australia. The questionnaire explored participant preferences for sharing genomic data or biological samples with researchers, and concerns about genomic data sharing.Results: Most participants wanted to be given the choice to have their genomic data from medical records used in research. Their expectations on whether and how often they needed to be approached for permission on using their genomic data, depended on whether the data was identifiable or anonymous. Their willingness to sharing data for research purposes depended on the type of information being shared, what type of research would be undertaken and who would be doing the research. Participants were most concerned with genomics data sharing that could lead to discrimination (insurance and employment), data being used for marketing, data security, or commercial use.Conclusions: Most participants were willing to share their genomic data from medical records with researchers, as long as permission for use was sought. However, the existing policies related to this process in Queensland do not reflect participant expectations for how this is achieved, particularly with anonymous genomics data. This inconsistency may be addressed by process changes, such as inclusion of research in addition to clinical consent or general research data consent programs.
Identification, Evolution, Expression, and Docking Studies of Fatty Acid Desaturase Genes in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Hajiahmadi Zahra , Abedi Amin , Wei Hui , Sun Weibo , Ruan Honghua , Zhuge Qiang , Movahedi Ali
Published: November 2020

Backgrounds: Fatty acid desaturases (FADs) introduce a double bond into the fatty acids acyl chain resulting in unsaturated fatty acids that have essential roles in plant development and response to biotic and abiotic stresses. Wheat germ oil, one of the important by-products of wheat, can be a good alternative for edible oils with clinical advantages due to the high amount of unsaturated fatty acids. Therefore, we performed a genome-wide analysis of the wheat FAD gene family (TaFADs).Results: 68 FAD genes were identified from the wheat genome. Based on the phylogenetic analysis, wheat FADs clustered into five subfamilies, including FAB2, FAD2/FAD6, FAD4, DES/SLD, and FAD3/FAD7/FAD8. The TaFADs were distributed on chromosomes 2A-7B with 0 to 10 introns. The Ka/Ks ratio was less than one for most of the duplicated pair genes revealed that the function of the genes had been maintained during the evolution. Several cis-acting elements related to hormones and stresses in the TaFADs promoters indicated the role of these genes in plant development and responses to environmental stresses. Likewise, 72 SSRs and 91 miRNAs in 36 and 47 TaFADs have been identified. According to RNA-seq data analysis, the highest expression in all developmental stages and tissues was related to TaFAB2.5, TaFAB2.12, TaFAB2.15, TaFAB2.17, TaFAB2.20, TaFAD2.1, TaFAD2.6, and TaFAD2.8 genes while the highest expression in response to temperature stress was related to TaFAD2.6, TaFAD2.8, TaFAB2.15, TaFAB2.17, and TaFAB2.20. Furthermore, docking simulations revealed several residues in the active site of TaFAD2.6 and TaFAD2.8 in close contact with the docked oleic acid that could be useful in future site-directed mutagenesis studies to increase the catalytic efficiency of them and subsequently improve agronomic quality and tolerance of wheat against environmental stresses. Conclusions: This study provides comprehensive information that can lead to the detection of candidate genes for wheat genetic modification.
Per-Fraction Positional and Dosimetric Performance of Prone Breast Tangential Radiotherapy on Halcyon™ Linear Accelerator Assessed with Daily Rapid Kilo-voltage Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Single-Institution Pilot Study
Authors: Yoon Suk Whan , Taunk Neil K , Freedman Gary M , Hubley Emily , O'Reilly Shannon , Teo Boon-Keng K , Anamalayil Shibu , Dong Lei , Kennedy Christopher , Zou Wei , Metz James M , Li Taoran
Published: November 2020

Background: This study investigates daily breast geometry and delivered dose to prone-positioned patients undergoing tangential whole breast radiation therapy (WBRT) on an O-ring linear accelerator with 6X flattening filter free mode (6X-FFF), planned with electronic compensation (ECOMP) method. Most practices rely on skin marks or daily planar image matching for prone breast WBRT. This system provides low dose daily CBCT, which was used to study daily robustness of delivered dose parameters for prone-positioned WBRT.Methods: Eight patients treated with 16-fraction prone-breast WBRT were retrospectively studied. Planning CTs were deformed to daily CBCT to generate daily synthetic CTs, on which delivered dose distributions were calculated. A total of 8x16=128 synthetic CTs were generated. Consensus ASTRO definition was used to contour Breast PTV Eval for each daily deformed CT. Breast PTV Eval coverage (V90%) and hotspot (V105% and Dmax) were monitored daily to compare prescription dose with daily delivered dose. Various predictors including patient weight, breast width diameter (BWD), and Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) were fit into an analysis of covariance model predicting V90% and V105% deviation from prescribed (ΔV90%, ΔV105%). Statistical significance is indicated with asterisks (* for p<0.05; ** for p<0.001).Results: Daily delivered Breast PTV Eval V90% was moderately smaller than prescribed (median ΔV90%=-0.1%*), while V105% was much larger (median ΔV105%=+10.1%** or +92.4cc**). Patient’s weight loss correlated with significantly increased ΔV105% (+4.6% / -1% weight., R2=0.4**) and moderately decreased ΔV90% (-0.071%/-1% wt., R2=0.2**). Comprehensive ANCOVA models indicated three factors affect ΔV90% and ΔV105% the most: (1) BWD decrease (-0.09%* and +10%**/-1cm respectively), (2) PTV Eval volume decrease (-0.4%** and +9%**/-100cc), and for ΔV105% only, (3) the extent of breast deformation (+10%**/-0.01 DSC). Breast PTV Eval volume also decreased with time (-2.21*cc/fx), possibly indicating seroma resolution and increase in V105% over time.Conclusions: Daily CBCT revealed key delivered dose parameters vary significantly for patients undergoing tangential prone breast WBRT planned with ECOMP using 6X-FFF. Patient weight, BWD, and breast shape deformation could be used to predict dosimetric variations from prescribed. Preliminary findings suggest an adaptive plan based on daily CBCT could reduce excessive dose to the breast.
Association of Health Checkups with Health-Related Quality of Life Among Public Servants: A Nationwide Survey in Taiwan
Authors: Shih Dann-Pyng , Kuo Hsien-Wen , Liang Wen-Miin , Lin Ping-Yi , Tseng Po-chang , Wang Jong-Yi
Published: November 2020

Background: Preventive health checkups have gained in importance over the last decade. The association of health checkups and the number of diseases with health-related quality of life (HRQoL), including physical and mental health, remains unclear. We sought to investigate the aforementioned association among Taiwanese public servants.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using randomized and multistage stratified cluster sampling based on proportional probabilistic sampling. The questionnaires addressed demographics, job characteristics, health behaviors, health status, 3 types of health checkups during the preceding 3 years (government-paid health checkup [GPHC], self-paid health checkup [SPHC], and no health checkup [NOHC]), and physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores of the Short-Form Health Survey. In total 11,454 middle-aged public servants were analyzed. A multivariate general linear model (GLM) was used to estimate PCS and MCS scores by using least square means.Results: Health checkup types were associated with a significant difference in PCS scores among the public servants. Scores of PCS and MCS were both significantly higher in the GPHC group than in the NOHC group for those with no chronic diseases (51.20 vs. 50.66 [P = 0.008] and 46.23 vs. 45.58 [P = 0.02], respectively). Compared with the NOHC group, both scores of GPHC and SPHC groups were significantly associated with higher PCS scores for public servants with ≥2 chronic diseases (46.93 vs. 45.13 [P = 0.002] and 46.52 vs. 45.13 [P = 0.009], respectively).Conclusion: In Taiwan, public servants undergoing GPHCs are more likely to report higher PCS scores than are those undergoing SPHCs. It is crucial that encourage periodically using the health checkup to improve health status and HRQoL.
Under fire-simultaneous volatilome and transcriptome analysis unravels fine-scale responses of tansy chemotypes to dual herbivore attack.
Authors: Clancy Mary V. , Haberer Georg , Jud Werner , Niederbacher Bishu , Niederbacher Simon , Senft Matthias , Zytynska Sharon , Weisser Wolfgang W. , Schnitzler Jörg-Peter
Published: November 2020

BackgroundTansy plants (Tanacetum vulgare L.) are known for their high intraspecific chemical variation, especially of volatile organic compounds (VOC) from the terpenoid compound group. These VOCs are closely involved in plant-insect interactions and, when profiled, can be used to classify plants into groups known as chemotypes. Tansy chemotypes have been shown to influence plant-aphid interactions, however, to date no information is available on the response of different tansy chemotypes to simultaneous herbivory by more than one insect species.ResultsUsing a multi-cuvette system, we investigated the responses of five tansy chemotypes to feeding by sucking and/or chewing herbivores (aphids and caterpillars; Metopeurum fuscoviride Stroyan and Spodoptera littoralis Boisduval). Herbivory by caterpillars following aphid infestation led to a plant chemotype-specific change in the patterns of terpenoids stored in trichome hairs and in VOC emissions. The transcriptomic analysis of a plant chemotype represents the first de novo assembly of a transcriptome in tansy and demonstrates priming effects of aphids on a subsequent herbivory. Overall, we show that the five chemotypes do not react in the same way to the two herbivores. As expected, we found that caterpillar feeding increased VOC emissions, however, a priori aphid infestation only led to a further increase in VOC emissions for some chemotypes.ConclusionsWe were able to show that different chemotypes respond to the double herbivore attack in different ways, and that pre-treatment with aphids had a priming effect on plants when they were subsequently exposed to a chewing herbivore. If neighbouring chemotypes in a field population react differently to herbivory/dual herbivory, this could possibly have effects from the individual level to the group level. Individuals of some chemotypes may respond more efficiently to herbivory stress than others, and in a group environment these "louder" chemotypes may affect the local insect community, including the natural enemies of herbivores, and other neighbouring plants.
A clinical study of curative partial breast irradiation for stage I breast cancer using carbon ion radiotherapy
Authors: Karasawa Kumiko , Omatsu Tokuhiko , Shiba Shintaro , Irie Daisuke , Wakatsuki Masaru , Fukuda Shigekazu
Published: November 2020

Background and purpose: Our institute initiated carbon ion radiotherapy research for patients with stage I breast cancer in April 2013. The purpose of this article is to evaluate the treatment outcome of cases treated outside clinical trial up to May 2020.Materials and methods: Eligibility criteria of the patients were having untreated stage I breast cancer and being unsuitable for operation for physical or mental reasons. The irradiated volume was defined as the gross tumor including intraductal components. The dose escalation study was initially conducted four times a week for a total of 52.8 Gy ([Relative Biological Efficacy (RBE)]). After confirming that adverse effects were within acceptable range, the total dose was increased to 60.0 Gy (RBE). Results: Between April 2013 and November 2015, 14 cases were treated. The median follow up period was 61 months. No adverse toxicities were observed except for grade 1 acute skin reaction in 10 cases. The time required from carbon-ion radiotherapy to tumor disappearance was 3 months in 1 case, 6 months in 3 cases, 12 months in 4 cases, and 24 months in 5 cases. The third case developed local recurrence 6 months after radiotherapy. Twelve patients with luminal subtype received 5-year endocrine therapy. Thirteen of 14 tumors have been maintaining complete response with excellent cosmetic results.Conclusions: The time from carbon ion radiotherapy to tumor disappearance was longer than expected, but complete tumor disappearance was observed except for one high-grade case. With careful patient selection, carbon-ion radiotherapy in patients with stage I breast cancer is deemed effective and safe, and further research is recommended.
The Analgesic Efficacy of Ultrasound-guided Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) Block Combined With Oral Multimodal Analgesia In Comparison With Oral Multimodal Analgesia After Caesarean Delivery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: YU YANG , GAO Shenshan , YUEN Vivian Manying , CHOI Wai Siu , XU Xuebing
Published: November 2020

Background: The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is used increasingly in parturients after caesarean delivery. This is a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of bilateral single-shot TAP blocks in patients who received multimodal oral analgesia for postoperative pain relief.Methods: Parturients who were scheduled for elective caesarean delivery under spinal anaesthesia were recruited and randomized to receive bilateral single-shot of TAP blocks or placebo in addition to multimodal oral analgesia which consisted of regular tramadol, celecoxib and paracetamol, with oral oxycodone used as rescue for breakthrough pain. Only parturients in TAP group would receive the TAP blocks with an injection of 15ml (0.25%) ropivacaine on each side under aseptic techniques. All the parturients were evaluated for pain or related complications in the first 24 hours after surgery. Primary outcome is the percentage of parturients who required oxycodone as rescue analgesia. Results: Eighty and seventy-nine parturients were allocated to TAP and placebo group respectively. Nine out of 79 (11.4%) parturients in TAP group and fifteen out of 73 (20.5%) parturients in placebo group required oxycodone for breakthrough pain, P = 0.122.Conclusions: Bilateral single-shot of TAP blocks confer little additional benefit when multimodal oral analgesic regimen is used for pain control after caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia.Trial registration:Clinical Trial Registry of China (http://www.chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR-INR-16010130). Retrospective registered on Dec 12, 2016
DArT-seq based SNP analysis of diversity, population structure and linkage disequilibrium among 274 cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) accessions
Authors: Sodedji Frejus Ariel Kpedetin , Agbahoungba Symphorien , Agoyi Eric Echikintho , Kafoutchoni Konoutan Médard , Kim Ho-Youn , Nguetta Simon-Pierre Assanvo , Assogbadjo Achille Ephrem
Published: November 2020

Background: Genetic diversity in a germplasm is crucial for continuous improvement of crop varieties. A panel of 274 cowpea ( Vigna unguiculata L.) accessions of unknown genetic diversity was assembled from diverse sources. This study used 3127 SNP markers, generated with the diversity array technology (DArT), to assess genetic diversity, population structure and linkage disequilibrium (LD) in the assembled germplasm. Results: The population structure analysis inferred three subpopulations within the germplasm, which was confirmed by Neighbour-Joining (NJ) clustering and principal component analysis (PCA). Low genetic distances (0.005 to 0.44) were observed between accessions. Accessions from Africa; West and Central Africa (113 accessions), East and Central Africa (93 accessions), and Asia (53 accessions) were predominant in the germplasm; and distributed across all subpopulations. High fixation indexes (0.48≤F ST ≤0.56) were obtained for the inferred subpopulations. AMOVA revealed a very large contribution of within subpopulations variation to the observed genetic variation in the germplasm. However, the expected heterozygosity (He) was higher than the observed heterozygosity (Ho), indicating high proportion of inbred lines in the germplasm. Linkage Disequilibrium (LD) was observed in the germplasm, which showed a low decay at longer physical distance between markers in the genome. Conclusions: Significant genetic structuration exists in the assembled cowpea germplasm which shows that there is a potential for improvement of the crop. The subgroups consisted mainly of inbred lines which, although from different geographical regions shared alleles in common reflecting high movement of seeds and exchange of germplasm between regions. The presence of linkage disequilibrium in the germplasm paves a way for prospective whole genome-wide association studies in cowpea for quality attributes and important agronomic traits.
Microincision vitrectomy surgery: Experimental visualization and quantification of vitreous contamination
Authors: Machida Yumiko , Nakashizuka Hiroyuki , Shoji Jun , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: November 2020

Background: To visualize and quantify vitreous contamination following microincision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS) using an experimental vitreous contamination model (EVCM). Methods: Enucleated porcine eyes with fluoresbrite carboxylate microspheres applied to the conjunctival surface were used as a type 1 EVCM. Twenty-five- or 27-gauge (G) trocar cannulas were inserted through the conjunctiva and sclera, followed by the placing and opening of an infusion cannula. These procedures were monitored by an intraocular fiber catheter. Secondly, condensed microspheres were applied to an excised sheet of porcine sclera to serve as type 2 EVCM. Twenty-five- or 27-G trocar cannulas were inserted perpendicularly through the top of the sclera where the condensed microspheres were applied, an infusion cannula was inserted, 0.1 mL of saline solution injected through the infusion cannula, and samples collected. The fluorescence strength of samples was then measured using fluorophotometry. Results: We visually detected fluorescent microspheres in 10/10 eyes with 25-G and 10/10 with 27-G MIVS. In the experimental quantification study, each MIVS gauge value was significantly higher than the control (P<0.01). However, there was no significant difference between 25-G and 27-G MIVS. Conclusions: MIVS carries the risk of introducing contamination directly into the eyes when the trocar cannula is inserted and infusion cannula is opened, even when a 27-G MIVS is used. Our study has shown it is essential that the surgeon be aware of the possibility of introducing contamination from the conjunctiva at all times during MIVS.
Surgical options for symptomatic old osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: A retrospective study of 238 cases
Authors: Xu Zhengwei , Hao Dingjun , Dong Liang , Yan Liang , He Baorong
Published: November 2020

Background: Symptomatic osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF) are increasing, as are acute and chronic pain episodes and progressive spinal deformities. However, there are no clear surgical treatment criteria for patients with these different symptoms. Therefore, this study aims to explore the surgical approaches for the treatment of OVCF with different symptoms and evaluate the feasibility of these surgical approaches.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 238 symptomatic OVCF patients who entered our hospital from June 2013 to 2016. According to clinical characteristics and imaging examinations, these patients were divided into I-V grades and their corresponding surgical methods were developed. I, old vertebral fracture with no apparent instability, vertebral augmentation; II, old vertebral fracture with local instability, posterior reduction fusion internal fixation; III, old fractures with spinal stenosis, posterior decompression and reduction fusion and internal fixation; IV, old vertebral fracture with kyphosis, posterior osteotomy with internal fixation and fusion; V, a mixture of the above types, posterior osteotomy (decompression) with internal fixation and fusion. Postoperative visual analog score (VAS), oswestry disability index (ODI) scores, sagittal index (SI) and ASIA grades of neurological function were observed.Results: All 238 patients were followed up for 12-38 months, with an average follow-up of 18.5 months. After graded surgery, the VAS score, ODI score, and vertebral sagittal index SI of 238 patients were significantly improved, and the difference between the last follow-up results and the preoperative comparison was statistically significant (P˂0.05). Besides, the postoperative ASIA grades of 16 patients with nerve injury were improved from 14 patients with preoperative grade C, 2 patients with grade D to 4 patients with postoperative grade D and 12 patients with postoperative grade E.Conclusion: In this study, we concluded that graded surgery could better treat symptomatic old OVCF and restore spinal stability. This provides clinical reference and guidance for the treatment of symptomatic old OVCF in the future.
WITHDRAWN: Expression and prognosis analysis of JMJD5 in human cancers
Authors: Li Hui , Li Qun , Jing Hong , Zhao Jianghai , Zhang Hui , Ma Xuhui , Wei Lunshou , Dai Rujiang , Sun Weihong , Suo Zhimin
Published: November 2020

BackgroundJumonjiC (JmjC) domain-containing protein 5 (JMJD5) plays an important role in cancer metabolism. However, the prognostic value of JMJD5 in most human cancers is still unknown. In this study, we aim to investigate the expression and prognostic value of JMJD5, immune cells infiltration, and the correlations among them. MethodsWe performed a detailed cancer vs. normal analysis of JMJD5 mRNA expression via online Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER). The protein expressions of JMJD5 in various cancers vs. adjacent normal tissues were examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) of tissue microarray sections (TMAs). Moreover, the Kaplan-Meier Plotter databases were used to evaluate the prognostic values in above cancers. The correlations between JMJD5 expression level and abundances of six immune infiltrating cells (B cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, macrophages, neutrophils and dendritic cells) were explored by TIMER database in breast cancer (BRCA), liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC), lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) and stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD). The prognostic values of tumor- infiltrating immune cells were also investigated by TIMER in above four cancers. Finally, the COX proportional hazards model was used to investigate the correlations among clinical outcome, the abundance of immune cell infiltrates and the expression of JMJD5 in above four cancer types.ResultsThe expression of JMJD5 was significantly lower in human breast carcinoma (BRCA), cholangiocarcinoma (CHOL), liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) and lung cancer (LUC) but higher in prostate adenocarcinoma (PRAD) and stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) comparing to their respective normal tissues. And high expression of JMJD5 has better prognosis only in BRCA, LIHC, LUC but the opposite effect in STAD. JMJD5 expression is significant correlation with the abundance of six immune cells infiltration in above four cancers. Both the BRCA or lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients with abundance of B cell and the STAD patients with low level of macrophage have a better cumulative survival. ConclusionsWe provided novel evidence of JMJD5 as an essential prognostic biomarker in cancers through analyses the correlation of the JMJD5 expression, tumor-infiltrating B cells and macrophages and prognostic value. This study offers new perspectives therapeutic target in BRCA, LUAD and STAD.
The long-term protective effect of tadalafil on spermatogenesis following testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury in a rat model
Authors: Kim Bomi , Lee EunHye , Yoon BoHyun , Chun So Young , Chung Jae-Wook , Ha Yun-Sok , Kim Bum Soo , Yoon Ghil Suk , Choi Jae Young , Song Phil Hyun , Kwon Tae Gyun , Lee Jun Nyung
Published: November 2020

Background

Testicular torsion is a urological emergency in which misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment can lead to testicular atrophy and male infertility owing to ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Although experimental studies of testicular torsion have been preceded, promising therapeutic agents based on the long-term effect for spermatogenesis have not been identified in testicular ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) animal model. Tadalafil, one of the phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors commonly used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, has recently reported a protective effect against IRI in several organs. In this study, we evaluated the long-term protective effect of tadalafil for spermatogenesis in a rat testicular IRI model.
Methods

Forty-eight adolescent Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups (A-F). Sham operation was performed in group A. Group B received surgical 720-degree torsion of the left testis without any medication. Groups C, D, E, and F were operated surgical torsion with tadalafil at varying doses (0.3 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg) and durations (single or daily administration for 4 weeks). Detorsion was performed after 3 hour of torsion in all rats except the sham group. Four weeks after operation, both testes were evaluated of spermatogenesis using Johnsen scoring. To evaluate the protective effect of tadalafil against oxidative stress by IRI, malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) level were analyzed via ELISA in both testes 4 hour after detorsion in the same experiments as in group A, B, and C.
Results

For the evaluation of spermatogenesis according to doses, the groups with high-dose tadalafil showed a higher Johnsen scores than low-dose counterparts. The groups with daily administration for 4weeks were observed a higher Johnsen scores than those given a single administration. Furthermore, molecular markers (MDA and SOD) related with oxidative stress and histopathologic findings showed remarkable improvement after tadalafil administration.
Conclusion

Tadalafil alleviated long-term deterioration of spermatogenesis and oxidative stress by restoring antioxidant status after testicular IRI rat model. Furthermore, it demonstrated a protective effect against testicular IRI in a time- and dose-dependent manner.
Hyperglycemia, Inflammatory Response and Infarct Size in Obstructive Acute Myocardial Infarction and MINOCA
Authors: Paolisso Pasquale , Foà Alberto , Bergamaschi Luca , Donati Francesco , Fabrizio Michele , Chiti Chiara , Angeli Francesco , Toniolo Sebastiano , Stefanizzi Andrea , Armillotta Matteo , Rucci Paola , Iannopollo Gianmarco , Casella Gianni , Marrozzini Cinzia , Galiè Nazzareno , Pizzi Carmine
Published: November 2020

Background Hyperglycemia has been associated with increased inflammatory indexes and larger infarct sizes in patients with obstructive acute myocardial infarction (obs-AMI). In contrast, no studies have explored these correlations in non-obstructive acute myocardial infarction (MINOCA). We investigated the relationship between hyperglycemia, inflammation and infarct size in a cohort of AMI patients that included MINOCA. Methods Patients with AMI undergoing coronary angiography between 2016 and 2020 were enrolled. The following inflammatory markers were evaluated: C-reactive protein, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR)and neutrophil-to-platelet ratio (NPR). Myocardial infarct size was measured by peak high sensitivity troponin I (Hs-TnI) levels, left-ventricular-end-diastolic-volume (LVEDV) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Results The final study population consisted of 2450 patients with obs-AMI and 239 with MINOCA. Hyperglycemia was more prevalent among obs-AMI cases. In all hyperglycemic patients - obs-AMI and MINOCA - NLR, NPR, and LPR were markedly altered. Hyperglycemic obs-AMI subjects exhibited a higher Hs-TnI, a larger LVEDV and a lower LVEF compared to normoglycemic ones. Conversely, MINOCA patients showed similar myocardial damage, irrespective of glycemia. Conclusions Our data confirm the association of hyperglycemic obs-AMI with elevated inflammatory markers and larger infarct sizes. MINOCA patients exhibited modest myocardial damage, regardless of admission glucose levels.
Recurrence Time Analysis of the 1883 (Mw 8.6 ~ 9.1) Paleo Megathrust Earthquake in West Bengkulu, Sumatra, Indonesia, Using Plate Kinematic Model for Supporting Mitigation Program
Authors: Murjaya Jaya , Karnawati Dwikorita , Pramumijoyo Subagyo , Supriyanto Supriyanto , Yuliatmoko Rahmat Setyo , Supendi Pepen , Rohadi Supriyanto
Published: November 2020

The great paleo-megathrust earthquake occurred in west Bengkulu-Sumatra on November 25, 1833 and it was estimated to have the magnitude of about Mw 8.6–9.1. This earthquake triggered a tsunami that has 3-4 m height in the Bengkulu coastal and its vicinity. The fundamental earthquake parameter was not known exactly, thus it was difficult to conduct the analysis. We tried to analyze it using scaling law relations of earthquake parameter and magnitude scenarios to estimate the recurrence time based on the plate kinematic model to support the long-term mitigation program. The recurrence time was estimated at 179 years, 250 years, and 314 years if the earthquake is assumed to have a dip-slip mechanism, plate slip rate about 7 cm/year, and magnitude scenarios of 8.6, 8.8, and 9.1 respectively. Then, the recurrence time was estimated at 314 years, 438 years, and 550 years respectively if the earthquake is assumed to have a plate slip rate about 4 cm/year. The other estimation was used the strain rate value of about 1.19 x 10-14/s for Sumatra region and the rigidity modulus of 3.1011 dyne/cm2. We found the recurrence estimation of about 161 years (Mw 8.6), 222 years (Mw 8.8), and 220 years (Mw 9.1) for the dip-slip model. Meanwhile, if this study used all rupture models, the recurrence time of the Bengkulu paleo megathrust earthquake would be about 370 years (Mw 8.6), 558 years (Mw 8.8), and 553 years (Mw 9.1).
Blending Participatory Action Synthesis and Meta-ethnography: An Innovative Approach to Evaluating Complex Community Health Transformation
Authors: Reed Kristin , Carr Tara , Rabbani Rumana S. , Chandler Caroline E. , Scaccia Jonathan , Cook Brittany S. , Howard Paul , Ramaswamy Rohit
Published: November 2020

Background: Community health improvement processes are diverse and complex, and evaluation methods to gain generalizable knowledge across community are limited by available data, and the need for deep contextual knowledge. Methods: This article describes an innovative participatory approach to evaluation of a community transformation initiative involving up to eighteen communication nationwide. The approach blends two qualitative research synthesis methods: participatory action synthesis and meta-ethnography and applies them to the pragmatic evaluation of a program in real-life settings. Results: In this article, we present the justification for and details about the evaluation process. Four cycles of synthesis and engagement resulted in development of concepts to describe community actions for transformation.Conclusion: The approach presented here will be useful to both researchers and practitioners interested in evaluating community-based health and well-being initiatives and other complex interventions conducted in complex settings.