bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Societal Burden of Endometriosis on Women: a Metaethnography
Authors: Nwankudu Olivia C. , Idris Israel Oluwaseyidayo , Ayomoh Francis Ifeanyi , Onyes Uju
Published: September 2021

Background: Endometriosis affects between 1% to 10% of women worldwide; it is associated with a significant burden on the woman, her relationships, productivity, mental health, family and society. Aim:To contribute to the current understanding of the impact of endometriosis on women’s lives by integrating qualitative research findings to explore the illness experiences of women living with endometriosis. Study design:Synthesis of qualitative data using Britten’s meta-ethnography.Methods:Six bibliographic databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus and PsycINFO) and Google Scholar were searched for peer-reviewed papers published in English language from inception of until August 6th 2021. Results: Fifteen studies were included in the data synthesis. The review included a total of 354 women from fourteen countries (including South Africa, Iran, England, Australia and United States of America), of age range 16-78 years. Subjects represented diverse ethnicities, cultures and native languages distributed across socioeconomic classes. Representation of all stages of endometriosis was included.Findings incorporate the following nine categories into a conceptual model: disease symptoms; health services experience; isolation and limited social participation; limited physical functioning; a coterie of emotions; sex and intimate relationships; infertility; work life and education; coping strategies and support. Diagnostic delays, persistent symptoms, healthcare costs and inadequate education to patients about the disease; all intersect into a web of struggles and incoherence for patients. Conclusion:Women with endometriosis living in various countries report similar illness experiences; although gender roles, culture and socio-economic status may act as mediating factors that shape an individual’s illness experience.
A Predictive Test of Outflow Enhancement by Ab Interno Trabeculectomy
Authors: Verma-Fuehring Raoul , Dakroub Mohamad , Han Hong , Hillenkamp Jost , A. Loewen Nils
Published: September 2021

Purpose: To investigate trabeculopuncture (TP) for predicting the outcome of ab interno trabeculectomy (AIT). AIT is an effective, low-risk procedure for open angle glaucoma. Despite widespread utilization, it fails in patients with an unidentified distal outflow resistance. Methods: We bisected 81 enucleated porcine eyes and perfused them for 72 hours. They were assigned to two groups: trial (n=42) and control (n=39). Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured continuously. At 24 hours, four YAG-laser trabeculopunctures on the nasal trabecular meshwork were performed, followed by a 180° AIT at the same site at 48 hours. Eyes were divided into TP and AIT responders and non-responders; the proportion of TP responders between both AIT groups was compared. Results: Both post-TP and post-AIT IOPs were lower than baseline IOP (p=0.015 and p<0.01, respectively). The success rates of TP and AIT were 69% and 85.7%, respectively. The proportion of TP responders among AIT responders was greater than that of AIT non-responders (p<0.01). Sensitivity and specificity values of TP as predictive test for AIT success were 77.7% and 83.3%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values were 96.6% and 38.5%, respectively. Conclusion: A 10% reduction in IOP after TP can be used as predictor for the success (>20% IOP decrease) of 180° AIT in porcine eyes.
p53 Antibodies as a Diagnostic Marker for Cancer: a Metanalysis
Authors: Sobhani Navid , Roviello Giandomenico , D'Angelo Alberto , Roudi Raheleh , Neeli Praveen Kumar , Generali Daniele
Published: September 2021

Abstract: Importance: p53 is an unequivocal tumor suppressor altered in half cancers. The immune system produces systemic p53 autoantibodies (p53 Abs) in many cancer patients. Objective: The focus of this systemic review and meta-analysis is on the prognostic value of p53 Abs expressed in the serum of patients with solid tumors. Data Sources: All the clinical investigations were searched on PubMed, MBase and Cochrane from 1993 reporting the first study until May 2021. Study Selection: Studies were included that met the following criteria: 1) participants with cancer; 2) outcome results expressed in relation to the presence of a p53 antibody; 3) a primary outcome (disease free survival, overall survival or progression free survival) expressed as hazard ratio (HR). The following exclusion criteria were used: 1) insufficient data available to evaluate outcomes; 2) animal studies; 3) studies with less than 10 participants. 1333 potentially relevant articles; studies as duplicates, non-patients studies or reviews were excluded. After viewing the titles and abstracts of the 52 remaining studies, the full texts of 34 studies were retrieved and 12 studies were included in the analysis. Data Extraction and Synthesis: PRISMA guidelines were used for abstracting and assessing data quality and validity by three independent observers. The summary estimates were generated using a fixed-effect model (Mantel–Haenszel method) or a random-effect model (DerSimonian–Laird-method) depending on the absence or presence of heterogeneity (I2). Main Outcome(s) and Measure(s): The primary study outcome was to determine the prognostic value of p53 Abs from a large population size of patients with solid tumors, as determined before data collection. Results: In total 12 clinical studies and of which 2094 patients were included and it was determined that p53-wt Abs expression in the serum significantly correlated with a worse survival of cancer patients (95% CI 1.48 [1.24, 1.77]; p<0.00001). On the contrary, data from literature indicated that there was a potential association between p53-mut Abs antibodies with better survival. Conclusions and Relevance: This is the first meta-analysis proving the diagnostic utility of p53-Abs for cancer patients, predicting a worse outcome. The serum-p53 value (s-p53-value) could be useful for future theranostics.
The Colon Transcriptome Explorer (CoTrEx) 2.0: a Reference Web-Based Resource for Exploring Population-Based Normal Colon Gene Expression
Authors: Díez-Obrero Virginia , Moratalla-Navarro Ferran , Dampier Christopher , Devall Matthew , Carreras-Torres Robert , Casey Graham , Moreno Victor
Published: September 2021

Gene expression data is key for the functional annotation of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified in genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Expression and splicing quantitative trait loci (e/sQTLs) in normal colon tissue, such as those from the University of Barcelona and University of Virginia RNA sequencing project (BarcUVa-Seq) and the Genotype-Tissue Expression project (GTEx), are required to gain biological insight of colon-related diseases risk loci. Moreover, transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS) rely on reference gene expression imputation panels in the tissue of interest to nominate susceptibility genes. Also, it is of high interest to study the relationships between genes in a network framework. For facilitating these analyses, we have updated and expanded the scope of the Colon Transcriptome Explorer (CoTrEx) to the version 2.0. This web-based resource provides exhaustive visualization and analysis of transcriptome-wide gene expression profiles of normal colon tissue from BarcUVa-Seq and GTEx. In addition to the integration of new datasets, CoTrEx 2.0 provides additional e/sQTLs sets, as well as gene expression prediction models and regulatory and co-expression networks. It is freely available at https://barcuvaseq.org/cotrex/. Overall, it is of high interest for researchers aiming to investigate the genetic susceptibility to colon-related complex traits and diseases.
Modeling Brittle Fracture in Epoxy Nanocomposites using Extended Finite Element and Cohesive Zone Surface Methods
Authors: Biswakarma John J.S. , Cruz Dario A. , Bain Erich D. , Dennis Josepth M. , Andzelm Jan W. , Lustig Steven R.
Published: September 2021

Linear elastic fracture modeling coupled with empirical material tension data result in good quantitative agreement with experimental measurements of fracture failure for both brittle and tough epoxy nanocomposites. The nanocomposites comprise diglycidyl ethers of bisphenol A cured with O,O’ bis (2-aminopropylpropylene glycol) (Jeffamine D230) and doped with rubber nanoparticles of varying concentrations. Toughness, critical load, and critical displacement in quasi-static single edge-notched three-point bending are predicted accurately using both surface-based cohesive zone (CZS) and extended finite element (XFEM) methods implemented in Abaqus software. Fracture initiation within a crack is taken at the yield stress from uniaxial tension data. Prediction of fracture processes using a generalized truncated linear traction-separation law was significantly improved by considering the case of a linear softening function. There are no adjustable parameters in the XFEM model. The CZS model requires only optimization of the element displacement at fracture parameter. Thus, these continuum methods describe these materials in mode I fracture with a minimum number of independent parameters.
Microvalve bioprinting of MSC-Chondrocyte Co-Cultures
Authors: Dudman Joseph , Ferreira Ana Marina , Gentile Piergiorgio , Wang Xiao , Dalgarno Kenneth
Published: September 2021

Recent improvements within the fields of high-throughput screening and 3D tissue culture have provided the possibility of developing in vitro micro-tissue models that can be used to study diseases and screen potential new therapies. This paper reports a proof of concept study on the use of microvalve-based bioprinting to create laminar MSC-chondrocyte co-cultures as an in vitro model of autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), an established cellular therapy for osteoarthritis. Microvalve-based bioprinting uses microvalves to deposit cells suspended in a liquid in a consistent and repeatable manner. In this case MSCs and chondrocytes have been sequentially deposited into an insert based transwell system in order to create a laminar co-culture, with variations in the ratios of the cell types used to investigate the potential for MSCs to stimulate improved repair. Histological and indirect immunofluorescence staining revealed the formation of dense tissue structures within the chondrocyte and MSC-chondrocyte cell co-cultures, alongside the establishment of a proliferative region at the base of the tissue. No stimulatory or inhibitory effect in terms of ECM production was observed through the introduction of MSCs, although the potential for an immunomodulatory benefit remains. This proof-of-concept study therefore provides a novel method to enable the scalable production of therapeutically relevant micro-tissue models that can be used for in vitro research to optimise ACI procedures.
Post-translational Modifications of the p53 Protein and the Impact in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Clark James , Piccirella Simona , Kayed Rakez , Abate Giulia , Uberti Daniela , Kinnon Paul
Published: September 2021

Our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis has developed with several hypotheses over the last 40 years, including the Amyloid and Tau hypotheses, respectively. More recently, the p53 protein, well-known as ‘the guardian of the genome,’ has gained attention for its role in the early evolution of AD. This is due to p53’s central role in the control of oxidative stress and potential involvement in both Amyloid and Tau pathways. p53 is commonly regulated by post-translational modifications (PTMs), which affect its conformation, increasing its capacity to adopt multiple structural and functional states, including those that can influence several processes in AD. The following review will explore the impact of p53 post-translational modifications (PTMs) on its function and consequential involvement in AD pathogenesis.
Methodological Investigation for Hydrogen Addition to Small Cage Carbon Fullerenes
Authors: Tanuma Yuri , Maekawa Toru , Ewels Chris
Published: September 2021

Hydrogenated small fullerenes (Cn, n<60) are of interest as potential astrochemical species, and as intermediates in hydrogen catalysed fullerene growth. However computational identification of key stable species is difficult due to the vast combinatorial space of structures. In this study we explore routes to predict stable hydrogenated small fullerenes. We show that neither local fullerene geometry nor local electronic structure analysis are able to correctly predict subsequent low energy hydrogenation sites, and indeed sequential stable addition searches also sometimes fail to identify most stable hydrogenated fullerene isomers. Of the empirical and semi-empirical methods tested, GFN2-xTB consistently gives highly accurate energy correlation (r>0.99) to full DFT-LDA calculations at a fraction of the computational cost. This allows identification of the most stable hydrogenated fullerenes up to 4H for four fullerenes, namely two isomers of C28 and C40, via “brute force” systematic testing of all symmetry inequivalent combinations. The approach shows promise for wider systematic studies of smaller hydrogenated fullerenes.
Enabling Year-round Cultivation in the Nordics - Agrivoltaics and Adaptive LED Lighting Control of Daily Light Integral
Authors: Hernandez Velasco Marco
Published: September 2021

High efficacy LED lamps combined with adaptive lighting control and greenhouse integrated photovoltaics (PV) could enable the concept of year-round cultivation and become a feasible option even in the harsh climate of the Nordic countries. Meteorological satellite data of this region was analyzed in a parametric study to evaluate the potential of these technologies. The generated maps showed monthly average temperatures fluctuating from -20°C to 20°C throughout the year. The natural photoperiod and light intensity also changed drastically, resulting in monthly average daily light integral (DLI) levels ranging from 45-50 mol·m-2·d-1 in summer and contrasting with 0-5 mol·m-2·d-1 during winter. To compensate, growth room cultivation independent from outdoor conditions could be used in winter. Depending on the efficacy of the lamps, the electricity required for sole-source lighting at 300 µmol·m-2·s-1 for 16 hours would be between 1.4 and 2.4 kWh·m-2·d-1. Greenhouses with supplementary lighting could help start the cultivation earlier in spring and extend it further into autumn. The energy required for lighting highly depends on several factors such as the natural light transmittance, the light threshold settings and the lighting control protocol, resulting in electric demands between 0.6 and 2.4 kWh·m-2·d-1. Integrating PV on the roof or wall structures of the greenhouse could offset some of this electricity, with specific energy yields ranging from 400 to 1120 kWh·kWp-2·yr-1 depending on the region and system design.
The Analysis of The Factors Influencing The Development of Foreign Economic Activity in The National Companies and The Management of Export-Oriented Production
Authors: Akhmedov I. A
Published: September 2021

This paper investigates major points of the experience of The analysis of the factors influencing the development of foreign economic activity in the national companies and the management of export-oriented production. On this way, management of export-oriented production and reliable terms were analyzed both theoretically and practically. Moreover, investigations of the well developed countries were learned, factors influencing the development of foreign economic activity in the national companies in comparison with local establishment and implementations. Final conclusions were done in order to reach better deployment in these areas.
Chemical management strategies for starry stonewort : a mesocosm study
Authors: Pokrzywinski Kaytee , Bishop West , Grasso Christopher , Volk Kaitlin , Getsinger Kurt
Published: September 2021

US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) approved algaecides and herbicides are frequently utilized to manage nuisance algae and aquatic macrophytes. However, there is limited information available on the effectiveness of these products for the management of starry stonewort. Thus, the goal of this research was to discern effective chemical control products for later growth stages of starry stonewort using mesocosm studies. Eleven treatments were evaluated using various combinations of four copper-based products, endothall, diquat, and carfentrazone – all with USEPA registrations for use in aquatic sites. To assess treatment efficacy, water quality, photophysiology, biomass changes, and bulbil viability were evaluated. Nine of the eleven treatments yielded lower dissolved oxygen concentrations and higher specific conductance when compared to the control. Photophysiological response varied by condition, but seven of eleven treatments resulted in significantly lower fluorescent and maximum fluorescent yield. Five of these also exhibited significantly lower average photosynthetic yields, with combination treatments resulting in more drastic decreases. Ten of the eleven treatments had significantly less biomass compared to the control when measured via wet weight; however, only four treatments were significant when measured via dry weight. Lastly, all conditions utilizing copper-based products significantly reduced bulbil viability while non-copper products had no impact.
Late Pliocene to Early Pleistocene Planktonic Foraminifera from Northern Indian Ocean (Andaman and Nicobar Islands): Interpretation on Cooling Event and Ocean Upwelling
Authors: Dey Rikee , Ghosh Amit K. , Bhaumik Ajoy Kumar , Chakraborty Arindam , Saxena Stuti , Roy Lopamudra
Published: September 2021

Thirty-two planktonic foraminiferal taxa have been identified based on Bright Field microscopic study as well as Scanning Electron Microscopy on the samples collected from the outcrop adjacent to the type section of Neill West Coast Formation at Neil Island of Ritchie's Archipelago, northern Indian Ocean. The planktonic foraminiferal taxa belong to ten genera viz., Dentoglobigerina, Globigerina, Globigerinoides, Globoconella, Globorotalia, Globorotaloides, Globoturborotalita, Neogloboquadrina, Orbulina, and Trilobatus. A number of statistical analyses have been done in addition to taxonomic study to interpret the palaeocenographic scenario. We performed PCA analysis on the foraminiferal content of the samples to test the relatedness. Two biozones have been established by Stratigraphically Constrained Cluster Analysis (CONISS). We used SHEBI (SHE analysis for biozone identification) analysis to precisely demarcate seven biozones. Attempts have been made to decipher the Plio–Pleistocene boundary in the Neill West Coast Formation based on specific zonal markers. The presence of some taxa (e.g., Globoconella inflata, Globigerina bulloides, and Neogloboquadrina pachyderma) indicates the initiation of a cooling event from late Pliocene onwards. An event of ocean upwelling also has been identified based on the presence of Globigerina bulloides, Neogloboquadrina pachyderma, and N. dutertrei from the late Pliocene to early Pleistocene of the northern Indian Ocean that also correlates with palaeoceanographic records known from other upwelling regions.
A GESTÃO DE PESSOAS E SUAS REPERCUSSÕES NA INCLUSÃO LABORAL DE PESSOAS COM DEFICIÊNCIA
Authors: Caron Diélen , Gadonski Jaderson , Costa Vívian Flores , Rodrigues Graciela Fagundes
Published: September 2021

O acesso ao trabalho constitui um direito social fundamental para a inclusão de pessoas com deficiência (PCD). A inclusão laboral materializa-se acompanhada de vários aspectos que envolvem desde o ingresso ao desenvolvimento desses profissionais nas organizações, na qual se destaca o papel da gestão de pessoas (GP). Este estudo tem como objetivo discutir a composição das principais políticas e práticas desenvolvidas pela GP, no que tange à inclusão de PCD em organizações do norte do estado do RS. Associa-se à abordagem qualitativa, caracterizando-se como um estudo de campo exploratório. Os resultados indicam o conhecimento, das gestoras entrevistadas, sobre as determinações legais vigentes; a importância da responsabilidade social de inclusão; o reconhecimento das dificuldades desse processo nas organizações, principalmente no suprimento/contratação de PCD. Práticas de aplicação, desenvolvimento, manutenção e monitoramento/controle das pessoas, assemelham-se aos processos realizados com os demais colaboradores, justificadas como prerrogativas da integração de PCD no contexto investigado.
BENEFÍCIOS E LIMITAÇÕES DO LAZER NO CONTEXTO EMPRESARIAL
Authors: De Sá Eduardo Penna , Gomes Christianne Luce
Published: September 2021

Este artigo objetiva compreender a percepção de trabalhadores que participam da associação recreativa de uma empresa de Minas Gerais, em relação aos benefícios e limitações dos programas de lazer ofertados nesse contexto. A metodologia contemplou estudo de caso com empregados ativos da empresa "Potência", que participam da associação "Recreio''. A pesquisa foi descritiva, seguindo uma abordagem quantitativa. O método Survey foi utilizado na investigação. Foi aplicado um questionário online aos membros que atendiam os critérios da pesquisa. Ele foi respondido por 110 trabalhadores, caracterizando uma amostra simples aleatória. Os resultados indicam que, para os pesquisados, os programas de lazer ofertados pela Recreio trazem benefícios positivos para eles, sobretudo em termos de satisfação e melhoria da qualidade de vida, e também para a empresa, em relação à imagem e aumento da produtividade. Conclui-se que os trabalhadores pesquisados consideram o lazer da empresa como parte de seu desenvolvimento pessoal/social.
EDITORIAL
Authors: Veiga Ricardo Teixeira , Souza Antônio Artur de
Published: September 2021

Apresentamos mais um novo número da Revista Gestão e Sociedade, oferecendo variada lista de relevantes artigos de pesquisa, evidenciando o vigor da produção acadêmica nacional.
No primeiro artigo os autores analisam a relação entre os fatores socioeconômicos, demográficos e sociopolíticos, e o gasto público em saúde das cidades sul-mato-grossenses no período de 2010 a 2018.
No segundo é abordada a composição de políticas e de práticas da gestão de pessoas na inclusão de indivíduos com deficiência em organizações do norte do estado do Rio Grande do Sul.
Os autores do terceiro artigo relatam os resultados de uma pesquisa sobe o processo sucessório em propriedades rurais familiares no município de Londrina, PR, investigando sua motivação, facilidades e dificuldades.
No quarto artigo é apresentado um modelo de apoio à gestão das atividades de planejamento portuário de uma holding catarinense por meio da metodologia Multicritério de Apoio à Decisão Construtivista.
O quinto artigo trata das contribuições dos Acordos de Cooperação Técnica Interorganizacionais para o alcance da mssão de uma Instituição Federal de Ensino situada no Agreste Meridional do Estado de Pernambuco.
O sexto artigo fornece evidências empíricas da percepção dos brasileiros sobre os efeitos da corrupção na confiança das instituições públicas, na imagem e na qualidade percebida do aparato público do país.
Empregando estudo de caso, o penúltimo artigo avalia a percepção de trabalhadores participantes da associação recreativa de uma empresa de Minas Gerais sobre benefícios e limitações dos programas de lazer oferecidos pela associação.
Com fecho de ouro, o artigo final investiga criativamente o uso de experimentos com anúncios misteriosos, para superar o ceticismo dos consumidores em relação às propagandas de produtos e serviços.
Desejamos uma ótima leitura.
Geochemical Modeling of Hybrid Surfactant and Engineered Water Injections in Carbonate Reservoirs under Harsh Conditions
Authors: Adila Ahmed , Al-Shalabi Emad W. , AlAmeri Waleed
Published: September 2021

Engineered water injection (EWI) has gained popularity as an effective technique for enhancing oil recovery. Surfactant flooding is also a well-established chemical enhanced-oil-recovery (EOR) technique in the petroleum industry. The hybrid surfactant flooding/EWI (surfactant/EWI) technique has been studied experimentally and showed promising results. However, there are very limited numerical applications on the hybrid surfactant/EWI technique in carbonates in the literature. Also, the studies applied under harsh conditions of high temperature and high salinity are even fewer. In this study, a numerical-simulation model is developed and used to investigate the hybrid effect of surfactant/EWI in carbonates under harsh conditions. This developed model was validated by history matching a recently conducted surfactant coreflood in the secondary mode of injection. Oil recovery, pressure drop, and surfactant-concentration data were used. The surfactant-flooding model was then coupled with a geochemical model that captures different reactions involved during EWI. The geochemical reactions considered include aqueous, dissolution/precipitation, and ion-exchange reactions. The proposed model has been further validated by history matching another experimental data set. Furthermore, different simulation scenarios were considered, including waterflooding, surfactant flooding, EWI, and the hybrid surfactant/EWI technique.

For the case of EWI, wettability alteration was considered as the main mechanism underlying incremental oil recovery. However, both wettability alteration and interfacial-tension (IFT) reduction mechanisms were considered for surfactant flooding depending on the type of surfactant used. The results showed that for the hybrid surfactant/EWI, wettability alteration is considered as the controlling mechanism where surfactant boosts oil-recovery rate through increasing oil relative permeability while EWI reduces residual oil. Moreover, the simulation runs showed that the hybrid surfactant/EWI is a promising technique for enhancing oil recovery from carbonates under harsh conditions. Also, hybrid surfactant/EWI results in a more water-wetting rock condition compared with that of EWI alone, which leads to lower injectivity, and hence, lower rate of propagation for ion-concentration waves. The hybrid surfactant/EWI outperformed other injection techniques followed by EWI, then surfactant flooding, and finally waterflooding. This work gives more insight into the application of hybrid surfactant/EWI on enhancing oil recovery from carbonates. The novelty is further highlighted through applying the hybrid surfactant/EWI technique under harsh conditions. In addition, the findings of this study can help in better understanding the mechanism behind enhancing oil recovery using the hybrid surfactant/EWI technique and the important parameters needed to model its effect on oil recovery.
3D Printing for Experiments in Petrophysics, Rock Physics, and Rock Mechanics: A Review
Authors: Kong Lingyun , Ishutov Sergey , Hasiuk Franciszek , Xu Chicheng
Published: September 2021

Geoscientific and engineering experiments in petrophysics, rock physics, and rock mechanics depend on multiple, costly, and sometimes rare samples used to characterize the properties of natural rocks. Testing these samples helps in modeling various hydrocarbon recovery and stimulation scenarios, as well as understanding the fluid-rock interactions in the subsurface under various pressure and temperature conditions. Over the last decade, 3D printing has matured to become a more commonly available tool to enable repeatable experiments with controllable materials and pore system geometries to investigate petrophysical, geomechanical, and geophysical properties of porous rocks. This review introduces the development, characteristics, and capabilities of 3D printing technology that are specifically used in research. Applications in the realm of petrophysics highlight the issues of replicating the pore network geometry and subsurface physics, aiming at understanding fluid flow in porous media problems. Using 3D-printed models in rock mechanics experiments focuses on generating comparable geomechanical properties and reproducing fractures, joint surfaces, and other rock structures, whereas in rock physics, geophysical forward modeling is highlighted to take advantage of 3D printing technology. By summarizing the recent advances in 3D printing as applied to petrophysics, rock physics, and rock mechanics, this review paper presents the current state of the art and the challenges in scale, cost, time, and materials, as well as the directions for advancing this frontier discipline to answer various fundamental questions regarding porous media research using 3D printing technology.
Optimal Design of Magnetic Torque for a Hydraulic-Magnetic Rotary Hole Cleaning Tool in Horizontal Drilling
Authors: Xiao-feng Sun , Hu Qiao-bo , Qu Jingyu , Li Wei , Mao Ning , Ju Guoshuai
Published: September 2021

The cleanliness of wellbore is a key factor in the drilling speed and quality of an oil field, especially in long horizontal sections of horizontal wells. Therefore, a hydraulic-magnetic rotary hole cleaning tool has been designed that does not rely on the rotary action of the drillpipe and could be used with a downhole motor to improve hole cleaning efficiency. However, the influence of magnet shape on the transmission of magnetic torque has remained unclear, such that the magnetic shaft transmission torque needed to be optimized to ensure efficient tool operation. In this study, magnetic field control equations were established in the region of the permanent magnet and air gap, and the magnetic flux distribution and magnetic torque generated between two magnetic axes in each field were calculated. Also, the influence of various magnetic field parameters on magnetic torque conduction of a strip magnet were compared and analyzed and then confirmed by comparison with experimental results. The results showed that the magnetic torque transmitted by strip magnets varied sinusoidally with magnetic axis deviation angles and that the highest torque was generated in the 12-pole model. However, the rate of increase in magnetic torque with magnet thickness was opposite to that of tile magnets, increasing with increasing magnet thickness. Magnetic torque variation with covered area was specific in the 6-pole model, showing a tendency of increasing and then decreasing. When magnet thickness was 12 mm and magnet coverage area in the effective cross section of the tool was 80%, the highest magnetic torque/unit volume of magnet was generated for achieving economic optimization. The results led to conclusions that, by solving the regional magnetic field, the magnetic torque change characteristics during movement of the magnetic drive mechanism of the hydraulic-magnetic rotary hole cleaning tool were simulated successfully and that these results could be used as an optimization analysis method for the magnetic drive mechanism of such tools.
Ligation and supercoiling of plasmids containing single strand interruptions
Authors: Calil Felipe A. , Putnam Christopher D. , Kolodner Richard D.
Published: September 2021

We have developed a simple procedure for determining if a plasmid DNA contains single strand interruptions that can be sealed by DNA ligase and thus contain single strand interruptions with 5'-phosphate and 3'-hydroxyl groups. In this procedure, plasmid DNAs with ligatable nicks were ligated by T4 DNA ligase, supercoiled by E. coli DNA gyrase and analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Our results show that after sealing nicked circular DNA with DNA ligase, supercoiling by DNA gyrase produces a rapidly migrating DNA species that can easily be distinguished from nicked circular DNA by agarose gel electrophoresis.
The Construction and Exploration of the CeRNA Network and Patterns of Tumor-infiltrating Immune Cells in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Jia Weiwei , Li Pengjia , Ma Mingxia , Niu Xiaochen , Bai Lina , Hao Haihu , Wang Xiaohui , wang li
Published: September 2021

KIRC is the malignant tumor with the highest incidence and poor prognosis in renal cell carcinoma. We want to explore the possible mechanisms of KIRC and effective prognostic-related biomarkers. The sequencing information of 3 types of RNA (mRNA, lncRNA and miRNA) in 539 cases of KIRC tissues and 72 cases of normal tissues is obtained from the TCGA database. Methods such as univariate Cox regression analysis, lasso regression screening, and multivariate Cox regression analysis were used to construct a prognostic model based on the CeRNA network. There are 3074 mRNAs, 359 lncRNAs and 132 miRNAs differentially expressed that have been identified through differential analysis. A complete mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA (SIX1-hsa-miR-200b-3p-MALAT1) network was obtained based on the CeRNA network. The CIBERSORT algorithm was used to analyze the degree of infiltration of 22 kinds of immune cells from each sample of KIRC. Construction of a prognostic model based on tumor-infiltrating immune cells, 2 immune cells (Mast cells resting, T cells follicular helper) were identified by constructing a prognostic model. There was a negative correlation between lncRNA MALAT1 and Mast cells resting (R= -0.27, P < 0.001); while there was a positive correlation between lncRNA MALAT1 and T cells follicular helper (R = 0.23, P < 0.001).
KSHV Episome Tethering Sites on Host Chromosomes: Regulation of Latency-Lytic Switch by the ChAHP complex
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Lyu Yuanzhi , Yanagihashi Yuichi , Chantarasrivong Chanikarn , Majerciak Vladimir , Salemi Michelle , Wang Kang-Hsin , Chuang Frank , Davis Ryan , Tepper Clifford , Nakano Kazushi , Izumiya Chie , Shimoda Michiko , Nakajima Ken-ichi , Merleev Alexander , Zheng Zhi-Ming , Campbell Mel , Izumiya Yoshihiro
Published: September 2021

Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) establishes a latent infection in the cell nucleus, but where KSHV episomal genomes are tethered and the mechanisms underlying KSHV lytic reactivation are unclear. Here, we study the nuclear microenvironment of KSHV episomes and show that the KSHV latency-lytic replication switch is regulated via viral long non-coding (lnc)RNA-CHD4 (chromodomain helicase DNA binding protein 4) interaction. KSHV episomes localize with a CHD4 complex, ChAHP, at epigenetically active genomic regions and tethers frequently near centromeric regions of host chromosomes. The ChAHP complex also occupies the 5’-region of a highly-inducible lncRNAs and terminal repeats of KSHV genome with latency-associated nuclear antigen (LANA). Viral lncRNA binding competes with CHD4 DNA binding, and KSHV reactivation is accompanied by the detachment of KSHV episomes from host chromosome docking sites We propose a model in which elevated lncRNA expression determines the KSHV latency-lytic decision by regulating LANA/ChAHP DNA binding at inducible viral enhancers.
Empathy And Burnout In Medical Staff: Mediating Role of Job Satisfaction And Job Commitment
Authors: YUE Zongpu , Qin Yang , Li Ying , Wang Jian , Nicholas Stephen , Maitland Elizabeth , Liu Cai
Published: September 2021

Background: Burnout is a growing problem among medical staff worldwide and empathy has been described as an essential competence to attenuate burnout. Previous studies found job satisfaction and job commitment were affected by the empathy and associated with burnout. This study explores the effect and mechanism of empathy on burnout on medical staff and investigates the mediating role of job satisfaction and job commitment in the relationship between empathy and burnout among medical staff.Methods: Based on a self-administered questionnaire, 335 responses from medical staff in Tianjin City, China, yielded data on socio-demographic characteristics, empathy, burnout, job satisfaction and job commitment. Bivariate correlation and structured equation modeling (SEM) analyzed the relationships between empathy, job satisfaction, job commitment and burnout multi-group invariant analysis was used to evaluate whether the model was consistent across different type and level of hospitals and different job and employment type subgroups. Results: A total of 202 (60.3%) medical staff had low level burnout, 115 (34.3%) staff had the moderate level and 18 (5.4%) staff had the high level burnout. The results of the SEM showed that empathy not only had a direct negative effect on burnout (β = -0.401, p < 0.001), but also had an indirect impact through job satisfaction ( β = -0.373, p < 0.001) and job commitment (β = 0.489, p < 0.001). Job commitment was negatively associated burnout ( β = -0.513, p < 0.001) but, unexpectedly, job satisfaction was positively associated with burnout (β = 0.177, p < 0.001). The results also indicated the model was consistent across employment type ( Δχ2 = 5.904, p > 0.05) and hospital type ( Δχ2= 7.748, p > 0.05), but was inconsistent across hospital level (Δχ2 = 42.930, p < 0.05) and job type ( Δχ2= 52.912, p < 0.05).Conclusions: Our results confirm the important role that empathy plays in the prevention of burnout and by managing job satisfaction and increasing the job commitment burnout can be attenuated. We recommend that government should increase pay for medical staff; continue to reform the resourcing of different hospital levels; and that hospital managers implement additional training and strengthen psychological testing and counseling, to reduce medical staff burnout.
Recalibrating the Non-Communicable Diseases Risk Prediction Tools for the Rural Population of Western India
Authors: Gupta Manoj Kumar , Raghav Pankaja , Tanvir Tooba , Gautam Vaishali , Mehto Amit , Choudhary Yachana , Mittal Ankit , Singh Gyanendra , Singh Garima , Baskaran Pritish , VR Rehana , Jabbar Shaima Abdul , Srid S , Goel Akhil Dhanesh , Bhardwaj Pankaj , Saurabh Suman , Srika S , KH Naveen , Prasanna T , Rustagi Neeti , Sharma Prem Prakash
Published: September 2021

Background: The present study was conducted to recalibrate the effectiveness of Indian Diabetes Risk Scores (IDRS) and Community-Based Assessment Checklist (CBAC) by opportunistically screening for Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and Hypertension (HT) among the patients attending health centres, and to estimate the risk of fatal and non-fatal Cardio-Vascular Diseases (CVDs) using WHO/ISH chartMethods: All the people of age ≥30 years attending the health centers were screened for DM and HT. Weight, height, and waist and hip circumferences were measured and BMI and Waist Hip Ratio (WHR) were calculated. Risk categorization of all participants was done using IDRS, CBAC, and WHO/ISH risk prediction charts. Individuals diagnosed with DM or HT were started on treatment. The data was recorded using Epicollect5 and was analyzed using SPSS v.23 and MedCalc v.19.8. ROC curves were plotted for DM and HT with the IDRS, CBAC score and anthropometric parameters. Sensitivity (SN), specificity (SP), Positive Predictive Value (PPV), Negative Predictive Value (NPV), Accuracy and Youden’s index were calculated for different cut-offs of IDRS and CBAC scores.Results: A total of 942 participants were included for the screening, out of them, 6.42 % (95% CI: 4.92-8.20) were diagnosed with DM. Hypertension was detected among 25.7% (95% CI: 22.9-28.5) of the participants. A total of 447 (47.3%) participants were found with IDRS score ≥ 60, and 276 (29.3%) with CBAC score >4. As much as 26.1% were at moderate to higher risk (≥10%) of developing CVDs. Area Under the Curve (AUC) for IDRS in predicting DM was 0.64 (0.58-0.70), with 67.1% SN and 55.2% SP (Youden's Index= 0.22). While the AUC for CBAC was 0.59 (0.53-0.65). For hypertension the both the AUCs were 0.66 (0.62-0.71) and 0.63 (0.59-0.67), respectively.Conclusions: Instead of CBAC, the present study emphasizes the usefulness of IDRS as an excellent tool for screening for both DM and HT. This is the time to expose the hidden part of the NCDs iceberg by having high sensitivity of non-invasive instruments (like IDRS), so, we propose a cut-off value of 50 for the IDRS to screen for diabetes in the rural Indian population.
Expression Patterns of Immune Checkpoints In Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Qiu Dan , Yan Xianxin , Zhang Guijuan , Xiao Xinqin , Cao Jingyu , Wang Yanqiu , Ma Ruirui , Hong Shouyi , Ma Min
Published: September 2021

Background: immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for solid tumors had significantly improved overall survival (OS). Positive response to PD-1/PD-L1 blockades was observed in the treatment of solid tumors. Breast cancer (BC) patients are no exception. However, the efficacy of immunocheckpoint therapy in BC patients remains poor. A particularly important factor is the lack of studies on the expression patterns of immune checkpoints in BC patients. Results: It was found that increased expression of PD-1, PD-L1, STAT1, CTLA-4 was associated with poor OS in BC patients. In addition, co-expression of PD-L1 with PD-1, STAT1or CTLA-4 and co-expression of PD-1 with CTLA-4was related to poor OS. We analyzed associations between the proportionate expression of PD-L1 and PD-1, PD-L1 and STAT1, PD-1 and CTLA-4, PD-1 and LAG3, PD-L1 and CTLA-4 in BC patients, there was significance in correlation in both of the BC patients. The expression of STAT1 in BC patients was compared with that of HC, and it was found that STAT1 was highly expressed in BC patients. Conclusions: our results suggest that transcriptome-based co-expression of STAT1 and PD-L1 is a predictor for poor OS in BC patients, which might provide novel insight into designing combinational targeted therapy for BC.
A Comparison of The Effect of Diurnal Temperature Range And Apparent Temperature On Cardiovascular Disease Among Farmers In Qingyang, Northwest China
Authors: Zhai Guangyu , Qi Jintao , Zhang Xuemei , Zhou Wenjuan , Wang Jiancheng
Published: September 2021

Background: Apparent temperature (AT) and diurnal temperature range (DTR) have been extensively used to evaluate the effects of temperature on cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, few studies have analyzed and compared their effects on CVD in less-developed, rural areas of China.Methods: A case-only analysis was conducted of 43,567 cases of CVD morbidity in Qingyang (Northwest China) in 2011–2017 and the effects of thermal indicators were assessed using distributed lag nonlinear modelling and a Poisson regression model. Data on CVD morbidity originated from the New Rural Cooperative Medical Insurance of Gansu Province and meteorological variables were provided by the Meteorological Science Data Sharing Service.Results: Both AT and DTR had significant nonlinear and delayed impacts on hospital admissions for CVD. DTR had a stronger and more persistent effect on CVD incidence than AT. Women were more affected by high AT and low DTR than were men, while men were more vulnerable to low AT and high DTR. Temperature effects were not significantly different between people above and below 65 years of age.Conclusions: These findings provide local public health authorities with reference data concerning sensitive temperature indices for susceptible populations with a view to improving CVD preventive strategies in rural areas.
Health System Cost of Post-Abortion Care (PAC): A Systematic Review
Authors: Sihaloho Estro Dariatno , Habibie Ibnu , Kamilah Fariza Zahra , Christiani Yodi
Published: September 2021

Background: Despite the increasing trend of Post Abortion Care (PAC) needs and provision, the evidence related to its health system cost is lacking. The study aims to review the health system costs of Post-Abortion Care (PAC) per patient at a national level.Methods: A systematic review of literatures related to PAC cost published in 1994 – October 2020 was performed. Electronic databases such as PubMed, Medline, The Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and PsycINFO were used to search the literature. Following the title and abstract screening, reporting quality was appraised using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) checklist. PAC costs were extrapolated into, US dollars ($US) and international dollars ($I), both in 2019. Content analysis was also conducted to synthesize the qualitative findings.Results: Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. All studies reported direct medical cost per patient in accessing PAC, but only three of them included indirect medical cost. All studies reported either average or range of cost. In terms of range, The highest direct cost of PAC with MVA (Medical Vacuum Aspiration) services can be found in Colombia, between $US50.58-212.47, while the lowest is in Malawi ($US15.2-139.19). The highest direct cost of PAC with D&C (Dilatation and Curettage), services was in El Salvador ($US65.22-240.75), while the lowest is in Bangladesh ($US15.71-103.85). Among two studies providing average indirect cost data, Uganda with $US105.04 is the highest average indirect medical cost, while Rwanda with $US51.44 is the lowest on the cost of indirect medical.Conclusions: Our review shows variability in cost of PAC across countries. This study depicts a clearer picture of how costly it is for women to access PAC service, although it is still seemingly underestimated. When a study compared the use of UE method between MVA and D&C, it is confirmed that MVA treatments tend to have lower costs and potentially reduce a significant cost. Therefore, by looking at both clinical and economic perspective, improving and strengthening the quality and accessibility of PAC with MVA is a priority.
Aragonite is calcite’s best friend at the seafloor
Authors: Sulpis Olivier , Agrawal Priyanka , Wolthers Mariette , Munhoven Guy , Walker Matthew , Middelburg Jack
Published: September 2021

In the open ocean, calcium carbonates are mainly found in two mineral forms. Calcite, the least soluble, is widespread at the seafloor, while aragonite, the more soluble, is rarely preserved in marine sediments. Despite its greater solubility, research has shown that aragonite, which could contribute between 10 and 90% to pelagic calcium carbonate production, is able to reach the deep-ocean. If large quantities of aragonite settle and dissolve at the seafloor, this represents a large source of alkalinity that buffers the deep ocean and favours the preservation of less soluble calcite, acting as a deep-sea, carbonate version of galvanization. Here, we investigate the role of aragonite dissolution on the early diagenesis of calcite-rich sediments using a novel 3D, micrometric-scale reactive-transport model combined with 3D, X-ray tomography structures of natural aragonite and calcite shells. Results highlight the important role of diffusive transport in benthic calcium carbonate dissolution, in agreement with recent work. We show that, locally, aragonite fluxes to the seafloor could be sufficient to suppress calcite dissolution in the top layer of the seabed, possibly causing calcite recrystallization. As aragonite producers are particularly vulnerable to ocean acidification, the proposed galvanizing effect of aragonite could be weakened in the future, indirectly boosting calcite dissolution further.