bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors affecting timely breast cancer treatment among black women in a high-risk urban community: a qualitative study
Authors: Rose Johnie , Oliver Yvonne , Sage Paulette , Dong Weichuan , Koroukian Siran M. , Koopman Gonzalez Sarah
Published: August 2022

Background

Black women diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. tend to experience significantly longer waits to begin treatment than do their white counterparts, and such treatment delay has been associated with poorer survival. We sought to identify the factors driving or mitigating treatment delay among Black women in an urban community where treatment delay is common.

Methods

Applying the SaTScan method to data from Ohio’s state cancer registry, we identified the community within Cuyahoga County, Ohio (home to Cleveland) with the highest degree of breast cancer treatment delay from 2010 through 2015. We then recruited breast cancer survivors living in the target community, their family caregivers, and professionals serving breast cancer patients in this community. Participants completed semi-structured interviews focused on identifying barriers to and facilitators of timely breast cancer treatment initiation after diagnosis.

Results

Factors reported to impact timely treatment fell into three primary themes:informational,intrapersonal, andlogistical. Informational barriers included erroneous beliefs and lack of information about processes of care; intrapersonal barriers centered on mistrust, fear, and denial; while logistical barriers involved transportation and financial access, as well as patients’ own caregiving obligations. An informational facilitator was the provision of objective and understandable disease information, and a common intrapersonal facilitator was faith. Logistical facilitators included financial counseling and mechanisms to assist with Medicaid enrollment. Crosscutting these themes, and mentioned frequently, was the centrality of both patient navigators and support networks (formal and, especially, informal) as critical lifelines for overcoming barriers and leveraging facilitating factors.

Conclusions

The present study describes the numerous hurdles to timely breast cancer treatment faced by Black women in a high-risk urban community. These hurdles, as well as corresponding facilitators, can be classified as informational, intrapersonal, and logistical. Observing similar results on a larger scale could inform the design of interventions and policies to reduce race-based disparities in processes of cancer care.
Diaphragm ultrasound evaluation during weaning from mechanical ventilation in COVID-19 patients: a pragmatic, cross-section, multicenter study
Authors: Vetrugno Luigi , Orso Daniele , Corradi Francesco , Zani Gianluca , Spadaro Savino , Meroi Francesco , D’Andrea Natascia , Bove Tiziana , Cammarota Gianmaria , De Robertis Edoardo , Ferrari Samuele , Guarnieri Marcello , Ajuti Margherita , Fusari Maurizio , Grieco Domenico Luca , Deana Cristian , Boero Enrico , Franchi Federico , Scolletta Sabino , Maggiore Salvatore Maurizio , Forfori Francesco
Published: August 2022

Background

Diaphragmatic dysfunction is a major factor responsible for weaning failure in patients that underwent prolonged invasive mechanical ventilation for acute severe respiratory failure from COVID-19. This study hypothesizes that ultrasound measured diaphragmatic thickening fraction (DTF) could provide corroborating information for weaning COVID-19 patients from mechanical ventilation.

Methods

This was an observational, pragmatic, cross-section, multicenter study in 6 Italian intensive care units. DTF was assessed in COVID-19 patients undergoing weaning from mechanical ventilation from 1st March 2020 to 30th June 2021. Primary aim was to evaluate whether DTF is a predictive factor for weaning failure.

Results

Fifty-seven patients were enrolled, 25 patients failed spontaneous breathing trial (44%). Median length of invasive ventilation was 14 days (IQR 7–22). Median DTF within 24 h since the start of weaning was 28% (IQR 22–39%), RASS score (− 2 vs − 2; p = 0.031); Kelly-Matthay score (2 vs 1; p = 0.002); inspiratory oxygen fraction (0.45 vs 0.40; p = 0.033). PaO2/FiO2 ratio was lower (176 vs 241; p = 0.032) and length of intensive care stay was longer (27 vs 16.5 days; p = 0.025) in patients who failed weaning. The generalized linear regression model did not select any variables that could predict weaning failure. DTF was correlated with pH (RR 1.56 × 1027; p = 0.002); Kelly-Matthay score (RR 353; p < 0.001); RASS (RR 2.11; p = 0.003); PaO2/FiO2 ratio (RR 1.03; p = 0.05); SAPS2 (RR 0.71; p = 0.005); hospital and ICU length of stay (RR 1.22 and 0.79, respectively; p < 0.001 and p = 0.004).

Conclusions

DTF in COVID-19 patients was not predictive of weaning failure from mechanical ventilation, and larger studies are needed to evaluate it in clinical practice further.

Registered: ClinicalTrial.gov (NCT05019313, 24 August 2021).
Identification of factors associated with residual malaria transmission using school-based serological surveys in settings pursuing elimination
Authors: Rakotondramanga Jean Marius , Vigan-Womas Inès , Steinhardt Laura C. , Harimanana Aina , Ravaoarisoa Elisabeth , Rasoloharimanana Tsikiniaina L. , Razanatsiorimalala Seheno , Wesolowski Amy , Randrianarivelojosia Milijaona , Roche Benjamin , Garchitorena Andres
Published: August 2022

Background

Targeted research on residual malaria transmission is important to improve strategies in settings pursuing elimination, where transmission reductions prove challenging. This study aimed to detect and characterize spatial heterogeneity and factors associated with Plasmodium falciparum infections and exposure, P. falciparum apical membrane antigen 1 (PfAMA1) antibody (Ab) response, in the Central Highlands of Madagascar (CHL).

Methods

From May to July 2014, a cross-sectional school-based survey was carried out in 182 fokontany (villages) within 7 health districts of the CHL. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and a bead-based immunoassay including PfAMA1 antigen biomarker were used to estimate malaria prevalence and seroprevalence, respectively. Local Moran’s I index was used to detect spatial “hotspots”. Remotely sensed environmental data—temperature, vegetation indices, land covers, and elevation—were used in multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression models to characterize factors associated with malaria infection and cumulative exposure.

Results

Among 6,293 school-children ages 2–14 years surveyed, RDT prevalence was low at 0.8% (95% CI 0.6–1.1%), while PfAMA1 Ab seroprevalence was 7.0% (95% CI 6.4–7.7%). Hotspots of PfAMA1 Ab seroprevalence were observed in two districts (Ankazobe and Mandoto). Seroprevalence increased for children living > 5 km from a health centre (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.6, 95% CI 1.2–2.2), and for those experiencing a fever episode in the previous 2 weeks (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2–2.4), but decreased at higher elevation (for each 100-m increase, OR = 0.7, 95% CI 0.6–0.8). A clear age pattern was observed whereby children 9–10 years old had an OR of 1.8 (95% CI 1.2–2.4), children 11–12 years an OR of 3.7 (95% CI 2.8–5.0), and children 13–14 years an OR of 5.7 (95% CI 4.0–8.0) for seropositivity, compared with younger children (2–8 years).

Conclusion

The use of serology in this study provided a better understanding of malaria hotspots and associated factors, revealing a pattern of higher transmission linked to geographical barriers in health care access. The integration of antibody-assays into existing surveillance activities could improve exposure assessment, and may help to monitor the effectiveness of malaria control efforts and adapt elimination interventions.
A cross-cultural adaptation and validation of a scale to assess illness identity in adults living with a chronic illness in South Africa: a case of HIV
Authors: Sematlane Neo Phyllis , Knight Lucia , Masquillier Caroline , Wouters Edwin
Published: August 2022

The chronic illness trajectory and its outcomes are well explained by the concept of illness identity; the extent to which ill individuals have integrated their diagnosed chronic illness into their identity or sense of self. The capacity to measure illness identity in people living with HIV (PLHIV) is still relatively unexplored. However, this is potentially useful to help us understand how outcomes for PLHIV could be improved and sustained. This paper aims to explore the cross-cultural adaptation of a Belgian developed Illness Identity Questionnaire (IIQ) and validate the instrument using a sample of South African adults living with HIV. We followed a phased scale adaptation and validation process which included an investigation of conceptual, item, semantic and operational equivalence and also examined the psychometric properties of the IIQ. The concept of illness identity with its four factors; engulfment, rejection, acceptance and enrichment in PLHIV, was found to be relevant within this context. Five items from the original IIQ were excluded from the adapted IIQ due to either semantic insufficiency and/or inadequate measurement equivalence. The mode of administration of the IIQ was changed to accommodate current study participants. The original four factor 25-item model did not fit current data, however, a better contextualized, four-factor, 20-item model was identified and found valid in the current setting. The results showed adequate statistical fit; χ2/d.f. = 1.516, RMSEA = 0.076, SRMR = 0.0893, and CFI = 0.909. Convergent and discriminant validity were also tenable. The cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the IIQ was successful, resulting in the availability of an instrument capable of measuring illness identity in PLHIV in a high HIV prevalence and resource-constrained setting. This therefore addresses the paucity of information and expands on knowledge about illness identity.
Giant aneurysm of left circumflex artery branch with fistula to the coronary sinus: a case report
Authors: Toyoda Yasuyuki , Takemura Takahiro , Shiratori Kazuaki , Yazaki Yoshikazu , Tachibana Takahiro , Niitsu Hirokazu , Kunihara Takashi
Published: August 2022

Background

Aneurysm of a coronary artery branch with a fistula is extremely rare. Here, we present a case of giant aneurysm of the left circumflex artery branch with a fistula to the coronary sinus treated successfully with aneurysmectomy.

Case presentation

A 58-year-old woman was referred to our hospital due to an abnormal pericardial mass found by multidetector computed tomography. Imaging examination revealed a dilated left circumflex artery branch with a 30-mm aneurysm. Coronary angiography confirmed a left circumflex artery branch aneurysm with a fistula to the coronary sinus. As percutaneous occlusion of the aneurysm by catheterization was considered unsuccessful, the aneurysm was resected, and the fistula was occluded surgically with excellent outcome. Pathological examination suggested that congenital factors may have contributed to the development of the aneurysm. Computed tomography showed no recurrence of the aneurysm at 1-year postoperative follow-up.

Conclusions

We presented a case of giant aneurysm of the left circumflex artery branch with a fistula to the coronary sinus. This is the first report of the combination of a giant coronary artery branch aneurysm with a fistula to the coronary sinus. Surgical aneurysmectomy should be considered in such cases to avoid fatal aneurysmal complications.
A simple algorithm for differential diagnosis in hemodynamic shock based on left ventricle outflow tract velocity–time integral measurement: a case series
Authors: Mercadal J. , Borrat X. , Hernández A. , Denault A. , Beaubien-Souligny W. , González-Delgado D. , Vives M. ,   the Spanish Critical Care Ultrasound Network Group, Carmona Paula , Nagore David , Sánchez Eduardo , Serna Maria , Cuesta Pablo , Bengoetxea Unai , Miralles Francisco
Published: August 2022

Echocardiography has gained wide acceptance among intensive care physicians during the last 15 years. The lack of accredited formation, the long learning curve required and the excessive structural orientation of the present algorithms to evaluate hemodynamically unstable patients hampers its daily use in the intensive care unit. The aim of this article is to show 4 cases where the use of our simple algorithm based on VTI, was crucial. Subsequently, to explain the benefit of using the proposed algorithm with a more functional perspective, as a means for clinical decision-making. A simple algorithm based on left ventricle outflow tract velocity–time integral measurement for a functional hemodynamic monitoring on patients suffering hemodynamic shock or instability is proposed by Spanish Critical Care Ultrasound Network Group. This algorithm considers perfusion and congestion variables. Its simplicity might be useful for guiding physicians in their daily decision-making managing critically ill patients in hemodynamic shock.
Plasma apolipoprotein E levels in longitudinally followed patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Giannisis Andreas , Al-Grety Asma , Carlsson Henrik , Patra Kalicharan , Twohig Daniel , Sando Sigrid Botne , Lauridsen Camilla , Berge Guro , Grøntvedt Gøril Rolfseng , Bråthen Geir , White Linda R. , Kultima Kim , Nielsen Henrietta M.
Published: August 2022

Background

Low levels of plasma apolipoprotein E (apoE) and presence of the APOE ε4 allele are associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Although the increased risk of AD in APOE ε4-carriers is well-established, the protein levels have received limited attention.

Methods

We here report the total plasma apoE and apoE isoform levels at baseline from a longitudinally (24 months) followed cohort including controls (n = 39), patients with stable amnestic mild cognitive impairment during 24 months follow up (MCI-MCI, n = 30), patients with amnestic MCI (aMCI) that during follow-up were clinically diagnosed with AD with dementia (ADD) (MCI-ADD, n = 28), and patients with AD with dementia (ADD) at baseline (ADD, n = 28). We furthermore assessed associations between plasma apoE levels with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) AD biomarkers and α-synuclein, as well as both CSF and plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL), YKL-40 and kallikrein 6.

Results

Irrespective of clinical diagnosis, the highest versus the lowest apoE levels were found in APOE ε2/ε3 versus APOE ε4/ε4 subjects, with the most prominent differences exhibited in females. Total plasma apoE levels were 32% and 21% higher in the controls versus MCI-ADD and ADD patients, respectively. Interestingly, MCI-ADD patients exhibited a 30% reduction in plasma apoE compared to MCI-MCI patients. This decrease appeared to be associated with brain amyloid-β (Aβ42) pathology regardless of disease status as assessed using the Amyloid, Tau, and Neurodegeneration (A/T/N) classification. In addition to the association between low plasma apoE and low levels of CSF Aβ42, lower apoE levels were also related to higher levels of CSF total tau (t-tau) and tau phosphorylated at Threonine 181 residue (p-tau) and NfL as well as a worse performance on the mini-mental-state-examination. In MCI-ADD patients, low levels of plasma apoE were associated with higher levels of CSF α-synuclein and kallikrein 6. No significant correlations between plasma apoE and the astrocytic inflammatory marker YKL40 were observed.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate important associations between low plasma apoE levels, Aβ pathology, and progression from aMCI to a clinical ADD diagnosis.
A new way forward? Examining the potential of quantitative analysis of IgE datasets
Authors: King Felix , Kaczmarczyk Robert , Zink Alexander , Biedermann Tilo , Brockow Knut
Published: August 2022

Background

Allergies constitute an important public health problem, and epidemiological data is crucial to developing strategies for its prevention and therapy. Few population-based studies are available for data on allergies and sensitization. However, as these studies are expensive and time-consuming, novel approaches are searched for.

Objectives

A large monocentric IgE dataset was used to analyse quantitative sensitization data in different age and gender groups and compared the results to available epidemiological data.

Methods

A total of 14,370 patients who sought medical care at the Department for Dermatology and Allergology at the Technical University of Munich, Germany was analysed. Total IgE and sensitization measured in specific IgE levels to common food allergens and aeroallergens were compared between females and males, age groups, and the year of testing (2003–2021).

Results

8283 females (57.6%) and 6087 males (42.4%) were tested. The average number of specific IgE tests per patient was 12.3 ± 11.4. Total IgE increased after birth with age and reached a peak between 4–6 years in males and 10–12 years in females. Males had higher specific IgE for all common aeroallergens (house dust mite, birch, mugwort and timothy grass pollen) and food allergens (milk protein, chicken egg white, peanut, wheat flour, cod) except for cat epithelia. Data closely reflected results of population-based studies in the literature.

Conclusion

This study shows that, despite potential patient and test selection bias, the results of the quantitative IgE-dataset analysis closely reflect results of population-based data. Thus, as large cohorts can be examined with a minute amount of effort, this surrogate method appears promising to supplement epidemiology research.
Correct approach in urticarial vasculitis made early diagnosis of lupus nephritis possible: a case report
Authors: Smets Kyra , Van Baelen Anne , Sprangers Ben , De Haes Petra
Published: August 2022

Background

Urticarial vasculitis is a clinicopathologic entity defined by recurrent episodes of urticarial lesions that persist > 24 hours and demonstrate the histopathologic features of leukocytoclastic vasculitis. The most important prognostic feature is the presence of normo- or hypocomplementemia. In the latter, patients are much more likely to have systemic manifestations. Urticarial vasculitis is most often idiopathic, but it can arise in association with autoimmune connective diseases, cryoglobulinemia, infections, medications, and hematologic malignancies.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 61-year-old Caucasian woman with a skin eruption that consisted of erythematous plaques on the trunk and limbs that lasted > 24 hours but were asymptomatic. The skin eruption had an acute onset and persisted for 3 months upon initial presentation in our dermatology department. A punch biopsy showed signs of a leukocytoclastic vasculitis in the superficial dermis. On laboratory examination, signs of activation of the complement system were found with low complement C3, C4, and C1q, and with a high anti-C1q antibody titer. The clinical, histological, and lab results fit the diagnosis of hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis. There was also a positive antinuclear factor with elevated U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein and high double-stranded DNA determined by Farr method. On urinalysis, marked proteinuria and massive hematuria were found. Kidney biopsy showed focal crescentic and focal mesangial type of glomerular damage with a full-blown positivity of immunoglobulin A, immunoglobulin G, and C1q, leading to lupus nephritis class III-A (according to the International Society of Nephrology/Renal Pathology Society 2003 classification of lupus nephritis). The patient was treated with hydroxychloroquine, corticosteroids, and low-dose intravenous cyclophosphamide (Euro-Lupus regimen) as remission-inducing agent, followed by azathioprine as remission-maintaining agent. This treatment regimen gave good results, with total clearance of the skin lesions and remission of the lupus nephritis.

Conclusion

Clinicopathologic recognition of urticarial vasculitis with correct screening for extracutaneous disease can lead to early diagnosis of serious organ involvement and thereby improve prognosis for the patient.
Postoperative kinetics of pentraxin 3 (PTX3) after congenital heart surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass in pediatric patients
Authors: Jaworski Radoslaw , Dzierzanowska-Fangrat Katarzyna , Grzywa-Czuba Renata , Kansy Andrzej
Published: August 2022

Background

Pentraxins are inflammatory proteins and markers of acute-phase responses. They are divided into short and long subgroups based on the length of the N-terminal region. The most studied short pentraxin is the C-reactive protein (CRP), which is known to be expressed in various inflammatory conditions, including surgical procedures. On the other hand, much less is known about the kinetics of long pentraxin 3 (PTX3) in surgical patients, especially in the pediatric population.

The aim of this prospective study was to determine the early postoperative kinetics of PTX3 in relation to procalcitonin (PCT) and CRP levels in children undergoing congenital heart surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).

Methods

A total of 21 children (9 boys and 12 girls, mean age 12 months) were included in the study. Blood samples for determination of CRP, PCT, and PTX3 levels were collected before the surgery and then immediately after its completion (postoperative day 0, POD 0) and subsequently at POD 1, 2, and 3.

Results

Serum PTX3 concentrations increased significantly between POD 0 and POD 1 (mean values were 12.2 and 72.4 ng/ml, respectively, p<0.001), decreased between POD 1 and POD 2 (mean values were 72.4 and 23.6 ng/ml, respectively, p<0.001), and normalized on POD 3 (the mean value was 1.2 ng/ml).

Conclusions

PTX3 concentrations are markedly elevated during the first postoperative day. Under normal circumstances, PTX3 rises and falls quickly, and its second rise in the early postoperative period may be abnormal, however, further studies are necessary.
Virtual simulation of Yue Opera costumes and fashion design based on Yue Opera elements
Authors: Liu Kaixuan , Zhou Shunmuzi , Zhu Chun , Lü Zhao
Published: August 2022

Yue Opera is known as the second most important national opera in China. The costume is an important part of the performance of Yue Opera, which carries the culture and history of Yue Opera. The purpose of this paper is to attempt a virtual simulation of Yue Opera costumes through an understanding and analysis of Yue Opera costumes, as well as to use the extracted elements related to Yue Opera costumes for modern fashion design based on Yue Opera costume style. The research method of this paper is to draw 12 sets of traditional costumes of Yue Opera by understanding and studying the costume culture of Yue Opera and transform them into a 3D digital virtual presentation of the costumes. The costume elements are then extracted for costume design so that the designed fashions can reflect the cultural characteristics of Yue Opera, and then virtual simulation technology is used for costume display to realize the dissemination of Yue Opera costume culture. The use of three-dimensional virtual simulation technology to digitize costumes contributes to the preservation and dissemination of Yue Opera costume culture. Secondly, the design of modern fashion using the concept of Yue Opera plays a role in the preservation and dissemination of Yue Opera costume culture.
Stabilization of expansive black cotton soil using bioenzymes produced by ureolytic bacteria
Authors: Mekonnen Eshetu , Amdie Yared , Etefa Habtamu , Tefera Nurelign , Tafesse Mesfin
Published: August 2022

Soil stabilization is the art and science of improving the engineering properties of soils. The properties of problematic soils can be improved by blending appropriate amount ofinsitusoil, aggregates and bioenzymes. In the present study, four bacterial strains:Sporosarcina pasteurii, Bacillus paramycoides, Citrobacter sedlakii,andEnterobacter bugadensiswere used to produce bioenzymes using urea supplemented molasses as a substrate via submerged fermentation. The crude bioenzyme was mixed with modified soil blended with 40% black cotton soil, 30% aggregate and 30% river sand; then tested after curing for 7 days. The test results revealed that except soil samples treated with bioenzyme ofEnterobacter bugadensis, all treated soil samples showed improved plasticity index (18–55%) and liquid limit (5–44%). Soil samples treated with bioenzyme ofBacillus paramycoides,Citrobacter sedlakiiandSporosarcina pasteuriishowed higher CBR values of 12.9%, 12.27%, and 11.95% respectively. On the other hand, free swell showed reduction in soil samples treated with bioenzymes ofSporosarcina pasteurii(47.37%),Bacillus paramycoides(30%), andCitrobacter sedlakii(10.53%). The highest percentage improvement of linear shrinkage was recorded for soil sample treated with bioenzymes ofSporosarcina pasteuri(39.65%), followed by Permazyme (10.44%),Citrobacter sedlakii(8.4%) andBacillus paramycoides(8.34%). Whereas, the highest percentage improvement in MDD was recorded in permazyme treated soil (11.92%) followed by molasses (8.29%),Bacillus paramycoides(1.92%), andEnterobacter bugadensis(0.73%). The lowest optimum moisture content (9.3%) was recorded in soil treated with permazyme. Triaxial test analysis also showed improvement in both cohesion and angle of friction in bioenzyme treated soils. From the test results it was concluded that it is possible to treat expansive black cotton soils using bioenzymes produced from low cost substrates such as molasses and reduce the cost of construction and environmental carbon emission.
A multi-country, prospective cohort study to measure rate and risk of relapse among children recovered from severe acute malnutrition in Mali, Somalia, and South Sudan: a study protocol
Authors: King Sarah , D’Mello-Guyett Lauren , Yakowenko Ellyn , Riems Bram , Gallandat Karin , Mama Chabi Sherifath , Mohamud Feysal Abdisalan , Ayoub Khamisa , Olad Ahmed Hersi , Aliou Bagayogo , Marshak Anastasia , Trehan Indi , Cumming Oliver , Stobaugh Heather
Published: August 2022

Background

The Community-Based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) model transformed the treatment of severe acute malnutrition (SAM) by shifting treatment from inpatient facilities to the community. Evidence shows that while CMAM programs are effective in the initial recovery from SAM, recovery is not sustained for some children requiring them to receive treatment repeatedly. This indicates a potential gap in the model, yet little evidence is available on the incidence of relapse, the determinants of the phenomena, or its financial implications on program delivery.

Methods

This study is a multi-country prospective cohort study following “post-SAM” children (defined as children following anthropometric recovery from SAM through treatment in CMAM) and matched community controls (defined as children not previously experiencing acute malnutrition (AM)) monthly for six months. The aim is to assess the burden and determinants of relapse to SAM. This study design enables the quantification of relapse among post-SAM children, but also to determine the relative risk for, and excess burden of, AM between post-SAM children and their matched community controls. Individual -, household-, and community-level information will be analyzed to identify potential risk-factors for relapse, with a focus on associations between water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) related exposures, and post-discharge outcomes. The study combines a microbiological assessment of post-SAM children’s drinking water, food, stool via rectal swabs, dried blood spots (DBS), and assess for indicators of enteric pathogens and immune function, to explore different exposures and potential associations with treatment and post-treatment outcomes.

Discussion

This study is the first of its kind to systematically track children after recovery from SAM in CMAM programs using uniform methods across multiple countries. The design allows the use of results to: 1) facilitate understandings of the burden of relapse; 2) identify risk factors for relapse and 3) elucidate financial costs associated with relapse in CMAM programs. This protocol’s publication aims to support similar studies and evaluations of CMAM programs and provides opportunities for comparability of an evidence-based set of indicators for relapse to SAM.
Cannabidiol as a treatment for arthritis and joint pain: an exploratory cross-sectional study
Authors: Frane Nicholas , Stapleton Erik , Iturriaga Cesar , Ganz Maximillian , Rasquinha Vijay , Duarte Robert
Published: August 2022

Introduction

An estimated 54 million Americans currently suffer from debilitating arthritis. Patients who have exhausted conservative measures can be subject to chronic pain and resort to symptomatic management with anti-inflammatories, acetaminophen, and opioids. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that has shown promise in preclinical studies to reduce inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. The purpose of this study was to explore patient perceived effects of cannabidiol on symptoms of arthritis.

Methods

A novel anonymous questionnaire was created to evaluate perceived efficacy of cannabidiol for the treatment of arthritis. A self-selected convenience sample (N=428) was recruited through online methods including social media accounts and newsletters (The Arthritis Foundation and Savvy Cooperative) between May 5, 2020, and November 5, 2020. Statistical analysis was performed to determine differences between types of arthritis and improvements in quality-of-life symptoms. Furthermore, a regression analysis was performed to identify variables associated with decreasing or discontinuing other medications.

Results

CBD use was associated with improvements in pain (83%), physical function (66%), and sleep quality (66%). Subgroup analysis by diagnosis type (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, or other autoimmune arthritis) found improvements among groups for physical function (P=0.013), favoring the osteoarthritis group. The overall cohort reported a 44% reduction in pain after CBD use (P<0.001). The osteoarthritis group had a greater percentage reduction (P=0.020) and point reduction (P<0.001) in pain compared to rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune arthritis. The majority of respondents reported a reduction or cessation of other medications after CBD use (N=259, 60.5%): reductions in anti-inflammatories (N=129, 31.1%), acetaminophen (N=78, 18.2%), opioids (N=36, 8.6%) and discontinuation of anti-inflammatories (N=76, 17.8%), acetaminophen (N=76, 17.8%), and opioids (N=81, 18.9%).

Conclusion

Clinicians and patients should be aware of the various alternative therapeutic options available to treat their symptoms of arthritis, especially in light of the increased accessibility to cannabidiol products. The present study found associations between CBD use and improvements in patient’s arthritis symptoms and reductions in other medications. Future research should focus on exploring the benefits of CBD use in this patient population with clinical trials.
Evaluation of miRNA-21 and CA-125 as a promising diagnostic biomarker in patients with ovarian cancer
Authors: Talaat Aliaa , Helmy Mohamed A. , Saadawy Sara F.
Published: August 2022

Introduction/objective

Ovarian cancer is the 6th leading cause of mortality in women, killing more women than any other reproductive system cancer. We studied the expression of serum micro-ribonucleic acid-21 (miRNA-21) in ovarian cancer patients and explored associations with diagnosis, clinicopathological parameters, and prognosis.

Methods

Real-time fluorescence-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to examine the relative expression of miRNA-21 in serum. Cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) levels were measured using an enzyme immunoassay test kit (ELISA).

Results

Serum miR-21 expression was significantly elevated in ovarian cancer patients compared to controls (p < 0.001). The same was true for CA-125 serum levels, which were also significantly in cancer patients (p < 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of miR-21 detection in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer were 96%, 88% versus 74%, and 80% for CA-125.

Conclusions

miR-21 is highly expressed in the serum of ovarian cancer patients and may be important in the development and progression of ovarian cancer, with more sensitivity and specificity than CA-125. Our results suggest that circulating serum miRNA-21 is a promising tumor marker for use in the diagnosis and prognosis of ovarian cancer.
Shape-constrained geophysical inversion
Authors: Denli Huseyin , Brandman Jeremy S.
Published: August 2022

Two long-standing challenges for geophysical inverse problems are nonuniqueness (especially in the multiparameter setting) and the slow convergence of gradient-based optimization methods. We introduce shape-based inversion algorithms to address these challenges. The shape-based algorithms determine, based on the available geophysical data, the underlying subsurface structures (e.g., stratigraphic layers) and the spatially varying unknown physical parameters (e.g., velocity and density). Inverting simultaneously for geologic structures and physical parameters eliminates degeneracies between parameters and also provides a multiscale framework for decomposing the inverse problem. First, we provide a rigorous mathematical formulation of shape-based algorithms through diffuse interface approximations. Then, we demonstrate the applicability of these algorithms to a range of synthetic model problems in traveltime tomography, full-waveform inversion, gradiometry, and history matching of single-phase flow. These examples highlight the ability of shape-based inversion to mitigate nonuniqueness and improve the rate of convergence to a physically realistic solution.
Early arrival waveform inversion using data uncertainties and matching filters with application to near-surface seismic refraction data
Authors: Cai Ao , Zelt Colin A.
Published: August 2022

We develop an early arrival waveform inversion (EAWI) technique for high-resolution near-surface velocity estimation by iteratively updating the P-wave velocity model to minimize the difference between the observed and calculated seismic refraction data. Traditional EAWI uses a least-squares penalty function and an acoustic forward-modeling engine. Conventional least-squares error is sensitive to data with low signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) and iterations of EAWI stop at a local-minimum data misfit or at the preassigned maximum number of iterations. These stopping criteria can result in overfitting the data. In addition, fitting the elastic field data with an acoustic modeling engine can introduce artifacts in velocity estimation, especially in land data with significant elastic effects. To overcome these challenges, we develop a robust EAWI (REAWI) method by (1) incorporating the data uncertainties into the penalty function and (2) mitigating the elastic effects using a matching filter workflow. The data uncertainties are estimated from waveform reciprocal errors. When full-waveform reciprocity is not available, trace interpolation is applied. The proposed method prevents closely fitting data with low S/N, avoids overall overfitting by stopping the iterations when a normalized chi-square ([Formula: see text]) waveform misfit of one is achieved, and is less affected by elastic effects. Numerical examples and application to near-surface refraction data at a groundwater contamination site suggest that the final REAWI models are more accurate than the corresponding EAWI models, at the same level of misfit. This is the first known application of a matching filter workflow to real land data. The final REAWI models satisfy an appropriate misfit between the real data and predicted elastic P-wave data, making this approach in this respect equivalent to elastic waveform inversion. We also develop a method to analyze model constraint by examining the energy of the wavefield Fréchet derivative thereby avoiding the influence of the data residuals in traditional Fréchet kernels.
An integrated study on fracture prediction using 3D P-wave field seismic data
Authors: Liao Jianping , Wen Ping , Xu Yungui , Zhou Lin , Liu Hexiu , Wang LiXin
Published: August 2022

An integrated study on fracture prediction by analyzing seismic anisotropy within a 3D P-wave seismic data set from an oilfield in Northwest China is performed. The research area is dominated by a regional anticline and the target layer is a fractured gas reservoir at a depth of approximately 3 km under the anticline. Two major aspects are considered. First, two P-wave poststack attributes (reflection strength and frequency content in selected lines) are extracted and their features in the target layer are examined, looking for the possible fracture distribution in two prospective zones. Second, the azimuthal attribute analysis approach is applied to estimate fracture density and orientation in the whole area from the prestack data (amplitude and traveltime). The result from the poststack data indicates the high possibility of fracture distributions in these two zones, and the prediction from azimuthal amplitudes in the prestack data is consistent with the fracture orientation from the well interpretation and the observation of outcrops at the top of the anticline but suffers from a poor offset-depth ratio and acquisition footprint. The prediction from azimuthal traveltime is strongly influenced by the regional anticline structure and, therefore, is not reliable. Nevertheless, the prediction from post- and prestack attributes provides more details of the fracture distribution in the target reservoir, which can expand understanding of the reservoir fracture distribution.
Simultaneous deblending and source reconstruction for compressive 3D simultaneous-source acquisition data via interpolated multichannel singular spectrum analysis
Authors: Lin Rongzhi , Guo Yi , Carozzi Fernanda , Sacchi Mauricio D.
Published: August 2022

Iterative rank reduction implemented via multichannel singular spectrum analysis (MSSA) filtering has been proposed for data deblending. The original algorithm is based on the projected gradient-descent method with a projection given by the MSSA filter. Unfortunately, MSSA filters operate on data deployed on a regular grid. We have developed a way to adopt a recently proposed modification to MSSA, interpolated-MSSA, to deblend and reconstruct sources in situations in which the acquired blended data correspond to sources with arbitrary irregular-grid coordinates. In essence, we develop an iterative rank-reduction deblending method that can honor true source coordinates. In addition, we indicate how the technique also can be used for source regularization and interpolation. We compare our algorithm with traditional iterative rank reduction that adopts a regular source grid and ignores errors associated with allocating off-the-grid source coordinates to the desired output grid. Synthetic and field data examples indicate how our method can deblend and reconstruct sources simultaneously.
Prediction of petrophysical classes and reservoir beds through microfacies and pore types characterization, Tahe Ordovician naturally fractured vuggy carbonates
Authors: Issoufou Aboubacar Mahaman Salifou , Heng Zhang , Li Jie , Ousmane Boukari Issoufou , Cai Zhongxian
Published: August 2022

Carbonates commonly present a stacking-pattern architecture determined by the depositional processes despite the diagenetic modifications. This study integrates spectral cyclostratigraphy and petrophysical analysis to locate prolific reservoir beds to optimize reservoir development. This involves subdividing the reservoir succession into different hierarchical units to understand the variation of microfacies and pore-structure types. The variation trends and discontinuity surfaces (chronostratigraphic and lithostratigraphic boundaries) are determined by conjointly interpreting the prediction error filter analysis (PEFA) and integrated PEFA (INPEFA) and synthetic seismic trace and seismogram. We define the rock texture types (microfacies) through self-consistent approximation based on the INPEFA log while considering the variation of depositional sequence and grain size, core/thin-section petrography, and borehole electrical image interpretation. We establish lithology-depth and petrophysical classes-depth profiles using largely well-log data and present new petrophysical classes for naturally fractured vuggy reservoirs. We predict porosity and permeability from the distribution of high-frequency cycles and lithofacies while considering the implications of diagenesis. The results indicate that the depositional processes and diagenesis largely control the quality of the reservoir beds in response to the relative sea-level variations. The reservoir beds comprise the reservoir units with connected-vugs- and fractures-dominated pore systems and the horizons with microporosity-dominated pore systems that are candidates for secondary recovery processes. The study proposes a total porosity variation model that describes an external cardiac compression-like depth profile, revealing alternation between low/tight and high-porosity horizons, with the highly porous intervals associated with the solution-enlarged porosity zones. Permeability varies with the pore type mixing and rock texture type rather than the total porosity. The method well applies to distinguish flow conduits from baffles and barriers in complex carbonate reservoirs.
Nonstationary training image partition algorithm based on deep features
Authors: Su Linye , Yu Siyu , Li Shaohua , Wang Xixin
Published: August 2022

Training image (TI) is a key input of multipoint geostatistical modeling. For modeling sedimentary facies under nonstationary conditions, it is common to first generate nonstationary TIs, then use a partitioned simulation approach, and finally merge the realizations of each subregion. We develop a new method for partitioning nonstationary TIs based on features extracted using a deep network model. The basic idea of the method is to crop a TI with a sliding window to obtain the subblocks of the TI and use the pretrained convolutional neural network model as a fixed feature extractor for the subblocks. We use K-means to cluster the extracted deep features and t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding to visualize the clustering effect and assign the classification information of all feature points to the subblocks of the TI as its subregion markers. Finally, we stitch the subblocks of the marked TIs by position to obtain the partitioning results of the nonstationary TIs. Experimental results indicate that the classification accuracy of the method reaches 90.53%, and the partition effect is relatively good. Research indicates that the method can reproduce well the spatial variation characteristics of nonstationary TIs and provide a new method for processing the multipoint geostatistical nonstationarity.
A well conditioning method of object-based models
Authors: Li Wanbing , Li Shaohua , Yu Jinbiao , Shi Jinghua
Published: August 2022

Reservoir stochastic simulation usually can be divided into two categories: object-based modeling method and pixel-based modeling method. For fluvial reservoirs, the complex geometry of sedimentary microfacies, such as the morphology of channels and natural levees, can be reproduced better by using the object-based methods. But these object-based approaches also have difficulty in conditioning models to dense well data. Most of previous conditional methods are iterative optimization algorithms, which take a long time to reach convergence when there are many conditional data, and they generally obtain a low degree of conditionalization. Therefore, we develop a new conditional methodology. The process of conditioning to well data is as follows. First, the classical object-based method is used to establish the channel reservoir model. Based on this, the distance parameter field (D1) related to the center lines of channels is established. Next, we convert the information of channel and nonchannel wells into the distance from the center lines and then set up the distance parameter field (D2) by kriging and other methods. Finally, D1 is modified by using the logical relationship between D2 and D1, and then D1 is truncated to obtain the river channel model. The analysis of the results of three examples indicates that this new approach can improve the conditional level greatly.
Elastic moduli parameterization and inversion considering nanopores effects in shale
Authors: Yin Linjie , Yin Xingyao , Li Kun
Published: August 2022

Nanopores are widely developed in organic kerogen in shale. Due to the large surface-bulk ratio, nanopores cause significant surface effects that affect the overall elastic properties of shale. It is essential to consider the effects of nanopores when applying the prestack seismic inversion technique for shale reservoir prediction. Based on classical elastic theory, the technique of amplitude variation with offset (AVO) can usually extract velocity of the longitudinal wave and shear wave, elastic modulus, and density in shale reservoir from prestack seismic amplitudes but often ignores the surface effects of nanopores. For this reason, we have derived a new AVO parameterization combining the nanoporoelasticity theory and AVO technique. The newly derived parameterization contains four parameters (shear modulus of matrix, nanopores-related parameter, shear modulus of saturated rock, and density) which can be used to estimate the nanopore properties of shale. The model test and real seismic data examples verify the feasibility and suitability of the proposed method by applying the Bayesian inversion technique with smooth background constraint.
Minimally Invasive Retropleural Thoracic Diskectomy: Step-by-Step Operative Planning, Execution, and Results
Authors: Farber S. Harrison , Xu David S. , Walker Corey T. , Godzik Jakub , Turner Jay D. , Uribe Juan S.
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND:

Thoracic disk herniation is rare and difficult to treat. The minimally invasive lateral retropleural approach to the thoracic spine enables the surgeon to decompress the neural elements and minimize thecal sac manipulation through direct visualization with less exposure-related morbidity.

OBJECTIVE:

To provide a detailed step-by-step overview of the minimally invasive retropleural approach for thoracic diskectomies, including preoperative planning through postoperative care as practiced at our institution.

METHODS:

Lateral retropleural thoracic diskectomies performed at a single institution from July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2020, were reviewed. Clinical and outcome data were collected and analyzed. The retropleural approach was divided into several components: relevant anatomy, indications and contraindications, preoperative setup, exposure and approach, diskectomy, and closure and postoperative care.

RESULTS:

Twelve patients were treated during the study interval. Their average (SD) age was 44.2 (9.5) years; 10 of 12 were men. Eleven patients presented with thoracic myelopathy. The level treated ranged from T6-7 to T12-L1. Disk herniations were calcified in 10 of 12 patients. These lesions were approached from the left side in 7 of 12 patients. Six patients had complications, none of which were neurological. Chest tubes were placed for pleural violation, pneumothorax, or hemothorax in 3 patients. Two patients experienced postoperative abdominal pseudohernia. Neurological symptoms were stable or improved in all patients. The median (IQR) Nurick scale improved from 3.0 (2.0-3.0) preoperatively to 1.0 (0-3.0) (P = .026) postoperatively.

CONCLUSION:

Lateral retropleural diskectomy enables safe, efficient resection of most thoracic disks while minimizing patient morbidity.