bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Worldwide First Successful Production Logging of Tri-Lateral High Temperature Coiled Tubing Drilled Sour Gas Well, Performed in a Single Run Using Innovative Reentrance System Without Whipstock Guides
Authors: Saeed Abubaker , Hamid Saad , Yakovlev Timofey , Sagr Hani , Harthi Sultan
Published: March 2020

The job results from an operation using a wireline-operated lateral access tool (LAT) with a production logging tool (PLT) on E-coil are presented. The objective was to successfully identify, enter and acquire production data in each of the openhole laterals as well as the main borehole in order to quantify production and identify any cross-flow.

This operation is enabled by the use of a wireline-operated LAT. The tool can identify where the lateral window is located in the well and provide orientation data. With the LAT, the bottom sub can be indexed to enable entry into the lateral, while sensors package would provide positive confirmation and identification of a particular, targeted lateral. The system is compatible with a number of mono-cable logging tools and can be deployed using both E-line as well as Coiled Tubing. This paper describes the operation in detail and discusses the output and evaluates the results, which demonstrate the efficiency and accuracy of finding and entering the laterals.

The operation was conducted on a well in Saudi Arabia which was drilled using underbalanced coiled tubing drilling (UBCTD) technique in 2013 and included three, slim openhole laterals. In early 2014, the well was put on production with unknown contribution from each of the lateral sections, but interlateral cross-flow was suspected, leading to the need for intervention. A number of approaches were considered with special consideration given to a new technology that had been developed locally and run with success on some other oil and water wells in the region. This technology had not been utilized previously in slim openhole wells with predominantly gas production. Challenges were anticipated regarding how some of the sensors would perform over two critical areas: identification of the lateral windows and confirmation that the lateral had in fact been entered successfully. The results of this operation demonstrate that the sensors can operate successfully in this environment. The operator was able to acquire critical reservoir information about each of the openhole laterals as well as the main bore, enabling further understanding of well production and reservoir depletion efficiency.

This case study demonstrates the innovative application of LAT to enable the production logging (PLT) and evaluation of slim openhole laterals in a gas well drilled with UBCTD compared to previous cases which were predominantly oil producers and water injectors.
Validity and Reliability of a Hausa Language Questionnaire Assessing Information, Motivation and Behavioural Skills for Malaria Prevention during Pregnancy
Authors: BALAMI AHMED DAHIRU , Said Salmiah Muhammad , Zulkefli Nor Afiah Muhammad , Norsa’adah Bachok , Audu Bala Muhammad
Published: March 2020

Background: Many studies on malaria knowledge, attitude and practice among pregnant women have been conducted in Hausa speaking communities in Nigeria. Despite this, no standard and uniform instrument for assessing this important public health problem has been developed in the Hausa language, even though it is widely spoken. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a questionnaire in Hausa language assessing information, motivation, and behavioural skills for malaria prevention during pregnancy.Methods: The questionnaire was first developed in English language, and then assessed for its contents by a team of experts. It was then forwardly translated to Hausa, and backwardly translated again to English by independent language experts. These two English versions were then compared by a Public Health expert, following which the questionnaire was administered to 190 Hausa speaking antenatal care attendees. Exploratory factor analysis was performed on the data collected. Sixty three out of the 190 respondents were invited after two weeks to answer the same questionnaire, following which reliability tests were performed.Results: The questionnaire showed good internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.859, 0.890 and 0.773 for information, motivation and behavioural skills constructs respectively. The motivation and behavioural skills constructs were able to delineate their items into three and two sub-sections respectively. The factor loadings for the two constructs ranged from 0.610 to 0.965. As for test retest reliability, the Krippendorff’s alpha values for the items of the motivation section ranged from 0.941 to 0.996; that for behavioural skills ranged from 0.810 to 0.953, while for frequency of ITN use, it was 0.988. The Cohen’s kappa values for the information section ranged from 0.689-0.974, except the item for ‘fever’ (zazzabi) which was 0.382, and was as such reworded to a simpler terminology ‘hotness of the body’ (zafin jiki).Conclusions: The Hausa language IMB questionnaire on malaria in pregnancy demonstrated good validity, and a high level of reliability. It is as such recommended for use among Hausa speaking communities to ensure uniformity and objectivity.
Effect of internal limiting membrane peeling on normal retinal function evaluated by microperimetry-3
Authors: Qi Yue , Wang Zengyi , Li Shi-Ming , You Qisheng , Liang Xida , Yu Yanping , Liu Wu
Published: March 2020

Introduction To evaluate the effect of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling surrounding macular holes (MH) for the function of retina by microperimetry-3(MP-3). Materials and Methods This is a prospective, cohort study which included patients with MHs who were treated by 23-gauge 3-port pars plana vitrectomy and ILM peeling with air tamponade. Color fundus photography, retinal optical coherence tomography and MP-3 were performed 1 week before, 1 and 4 months after the operation. In MP-3 examination, a customized follow-up pattern with 45 spots in the central 8° visual field was used. The spots corresponding to the retina surrounding macular holes were selected for comparison of pre- and post-operative function. Results We included 44 eyes of 44 patients with best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 1.06±0.40 (logMAR). All eyes achieved an anatomical success at 4 months. BCVA significantly improved at 1 month (0.53±0.30, P<0.01) and 4 months (0.31±0.24, P<0.01), respectively. Mean retinal sensitivity (MRS, dB) of the retina surrounding macular hole was 23.46±3.01 dB at baseline, and significantly increased at 1 month (26.25±2.31 dB, u=-4.88, P<0.01) and 4 months(27.14±2.45 dB, t=-6.29, P<0.01). Patients with increased MRS are significantly younger than those with deceased MRS (59.72±3.22 years vs. 65.60±8.19 years, P<0.01). After ILM peeling, the increasing extent of MRS was significantly higher in inferior and nasal retina than in superior and temporal retina at 1 and 4 months (P<0.05). Conclusion ILM peeling in normal retina will not decrease the retinal function in a short-term after surgery.
Monitoring intrapartum fetal heart rates by mothers in labour in two public hospitals: an initiative to improve maternal and neonatal healthcare in Liberia
Authors: Borzie Korpo , Jasper Noah , Southall David , MacDonald Rhona , Kola Adeyemo Abass , Dolo Obed , Magnus Asinya , Watson Diane , Casement Maire , Dahn Bernice , Jallah Wilhelmina
Published: March 2020

Abstract Background: In low-resource settings with few health workers, Fetal Heart Rate (FHR) monitoring in labour can be inconsistent and unreliable. An initiative to improve fetal monitoring was implemented in two public hospitals in rural Liberia; the country with the second lowest number of midwives and nurses in the world (1.007 per 10,000 of the population). The initiative assessed the feasibility of educating women in labour to monitor their own FHR and alert a midwife of changes detected.Methods and Interventions: 474 women admitted in labour without obstetric complications were approached. 461 consented to participate (97%) and 13 declined. Those consenting were trained to monitor their FHR using a sonicaid for approximately one minute immediately following the end of every uterine contraction and to inform a midwife of changes. If changes were confirmed, standard clinical interventions for fetal distress (lateral tilt, intravenous fluids and oxygen) were undertaken and, when appropriate, accelerated delivery by vacuum or Caesarean section. Participants provided views on their experiences; subsequently categorized into themes. Neonatal outcomes regarding survival, need for resuscitation, presence of birth asphyxia, and treatment were recorded.Results: 461 out of 474 women gave consent, of whom 425 (92%) completed the monitoring themselves. 387 of 400 women who gave comments, reported positive and 13 negative experiences. 28 participants reported FHR changes, confirmed in 26 cases with meconium stained liquor in 17. Fetal death was identified on admission during training in one mother. 13 neonates required resuscitation, with 12 admitted to the neonatal unit. One developed temporary seizures suggesting birth asphyxia. All 26 neonates were discharged home apparently well. In 2 mothers, previously unrecognized obstetric complications (cord prolapse and Bandl’s ring with obstructed labour) accompanied FHR changes. Resuscitation was needed in 8 neonates without identified FHR changes including one of birth weight 1.3 Kg who could not be resuscitated. There were no intrapartum stillbirths in participants. Conclusions: Women in labour were able to monitor and detect changes in their FHR. Most found the experience beneficial. The absence of intrapartum stillbirths after admission and the low rate of poor neonatal outcomes are promising and warrant further investigation.
Understanding health professional role integration in complex adaptive systems: A multiple-case study of Physician Assistants in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Burrows Kristen , Abelson Julia , Miller Patricia , Levine Mitch , Vanstone Meredith
Published: March 2020

Background To meet the complex needs of healthcare delivery, the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care (MOHLTC) introduced Physician Assistants (PAs) into the Ontario health care system in 2006 to help increase access to care, decrease wait times, and improve continuity of care. Integration of new health professional roles is often stymied by role resistance and funding barriers. The characterization of healthcare organizations as complex adaptive systems (CAS) may offer insight into the relationships and interactions that optimize and restrict successful PA integration. The aim of this study is to explore the integration of PAs across multiple settings and to understand the PA role within complex adaptive systems. Methods An exploratory, multiple-case study was used to examine PA role integration in four settings: family medicine, emergency medicine, general surgery, and inpatient medicine. Interviews were conducted with 46 healthcare providers and administrators across 13 hospitals and 6 clinics in Ontario, Canada. Analysis was conducted in three phases: inductive thematic analysis within each of the four cases; a cross-case thematic analysis; and a broader exploration of cross-case patterns pertaining to specific complexity theory principles of interest. Results Support for PA contributions across various health care settings, the importance of role awareness, supervisory relationship attributes, and role vulnerability (in relation to sustainability and funding) are interconnected and dynamic in hospital and community settings. Findings represent the experiences of PAs and other healthcare providers, and demonstrate how the PA’s willingness to work and ability to build relationships within existing health systems allows for the establishment of interprofessional, collaborative, and person-centered care. As a self-organizing agent in complex adaptive systems (i.e. health organizations), PA role exploration revealed patterns of team behavior, non-linear interconnections, open relationships, dynamic systems, and the legacy of role implementation as defined by complexity theory. Conclusions By exploring the role of PAs across multiple sites, the complexity theory lens concurrently fosters an awareness of emerging patterns, relationships and non-linear interactions within the defined context of the Ontario healthcare system. By establishing collaborative, interprofessional care models in community and hospital settings, PAs are making a significant contribution to Ontario healthcare settings.
Influence of benzene exposure, fat content, and their interactions on erythroid-related hematologic parameters in petrochemical workers: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Xue , Deng Qifei , He Zhini , Li Jie , Ma Xiaoju , Zhang Zhaorui , Wu Dehua , Xing Xiumei , Peng Jing , Guo Hongyu , Huang Ming , Chen Liping , Dang Shanfeng , Zhu Yanqun , Zhang Zhengbao , Yang Boyi , Wang Hailan , Chen Wen , Xiao Yongmei
Published: March 2020

Background: Ubiquitously distributed benzene is a known hematotoxin. Increasing evidence has suggested that erythroid-related hematologic parameters may be sensitive to benzene exposure. Fat content, which is also closely associated with erythroid-related hematologic parameters, may affect the distribution and/or metabolism of benzene, and eventually benzene-induced toxicity.
Methods: To explore the influence of benzene exposure, fat content, and their interactions on erythroid-related hematologic parameters, we recruited 1669 petrochemical workers and measured their urinary S-phenylmercapturic acid (SPMA) concentration and erythroid-related hematological parameters. Indices for fat content included body fat percentage (BF%), plasma total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG) , and occurrence of fatty liver.
Results: The dose-response curve revealed U-shaped nonlinear relationships of SPMA with hematocrit (HCT) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) ( P -overall <0.001, and P -nonlinear < 0.015), as well as positive linear associations and r-shaped nonlinear relationships of continuous fat content indices with erythroid-related hematological parameters ( P -overall ≤ 0.005). We also observed modification effects of fat content on the associations between benzene exposure and erythroid-related hematological parameters, with workers of lower or higher BF% and TG more sensitive to benzene-induced elevation of MCHC ( P interaction =0.021) and benzene-induced decrease of HCT ( P interaction = 0.050), respectively. We also found that some erythroid-related hematologic parameters differed between subgroups of workers with different SPMA levels and fat content combination.
Conclusions: Our study suggested that benzene exposure, fat content, and their interactions may affect erythroid-related hematological parameters in petrochemical workers in a complex manner that are worthy of further investigation.
Predicting the potential distribution of the parasitic Cuscuta chinensis under global warming
Authors: Ren Zichun , Zagorchev Lyuben , Ma Junxia , Yan Ming , Li Junmin
Published: March 2020

Background: The climate is the dominant factor that affects the distribution of plants. Cuscuta chinensis is a stem holoparasitic plant, which develops a haustorium and sucks nutrients from host plants. The potential distribution of C . chinensis has not been predicted to date. This study used Maxent modeling to predict the potential global distribution of C. chinensis , based on the following six main bioclimatic variables: annual mean temperature, isothermality, temperature seasonality, precipitation seasonality, precipitation of the warmest quarter, and precipitation of the coldest quarter. Results: The optimal annual average temperature and isothermality of C. chinensis ranged from 4 to 37°C and less than 45, respectively, while the optimal temperature seasonality and precipitation seasonality ranged from 4000 to 25000 and from 50 to 130, respectively. The optimal precipitation of the warmest season ranged from 300 to 1000 mm and from 2500 to 3500 mm, while that of the coldest season was less than 20000 mm. In Asia, C. chinensis is mainly distributed at latitudes ranging from 20° N to 50° N. During three specific historical periods (last glacial maximum, mid-Holocene, and 1960–1990) the habitats suitable for C. chinensis were concentrated in the central, northern, southern, and eastern parts of China. From the last glacial maximum to the mid-Holocene, the total area with suitability of 0.5-1 increased by 0.0875 million km 2 ; however, from the mid-Holocene to 1960–1990, the total area with suitability of 0.5-1 decreased by 0.0759 million km 2 . The simulation results of habitat suitability in the two representative concentration pathways (RCP) 2.6 (i.e., the low greenhouse gas emissions pathway) and 8.5 (i.e., the high greenhouse gas emissions pathway) indicate that the habitat suitability of C. chinensis decreased in response to the warming climate. Compared with RCP2.6, areas with averaged suitability and high suitability for survival (RCP8.5) decreased by 0.18 million km 2 . Conclusion: Suitable habitats of C. chinensis are situated in central, northern, southern, and eastern China. The habitat suitability of C. chinensis decreased in response to the warming climate. These results provide a reference for the management and control of C. chinensis .
Disease Features Associated with a low Disease Impact in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis: Results of a Cross-Sectional Multicenter Study
Authors: Queiro Rubén , Cañete Juan D , Montoro María , Gómez Susana , Cábez Ana
Published: March 2020

Background Patient reported outcomes measures, such as those provided by the the Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease ( PsAID) questionnaire, have been found to be a reliable indicator of change during treatment, predictive of long-term outcomes, and the impact of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) on patients’ lives. The objective of the study was to describe demographic and clinical characteristics of PsA patients with a low disease impact and to analyze predictive factors for that state. Methods Post-hoc analysis of a cross-sectional multicenter study that included 223 consecutive patients. The Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease (PsAID) questionnaire was used to estimate disease impact. Patients with a PsAID < 4 were considered in low disease impact. Minimal Disease Activity (MDA) response and the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) were also assessed. The degree of agreement between the different outcomes was addressed by Cohen´s kappa index. Results One hundred and twenty-two (54.7%) patients reached a PsAID <4. Among them, 52.0% and 68.0% presented articular or skin remission, respectively. Almost 75% of patients were in MDA state and 85.2% presented a low disability state according to the HAQ. A moderate concordance between HAQ ≤ 0.5 and PsAID <4 (k=0.53), fair between MDA and PsAID <4 (k=0.36), and moderate between DAPSA remission and PsAID <4 (k= 0.46), was observed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that patients with distal interphalangeal joint (DIP) disease (OR 0.40, 95%CI: 0.20-0.79, p=0.009), family history of PsA (OR 0.25, 95%CI: 0.09-0.72, p=0.010), and higher C-reactive protein (OR 0.92, 95%CI: 0.85-0.99, p=0.036) were significantly less likely to reach a PsAID < 4. Conclusions There is certain discrepancy between disease activity measures and a low impact of disease in PsA. Clinical features (DIP joint involvement), biologic activity, and genetic factors (familial history), seem to be associated with lower odds of reaching a low disease impact.
Status and influential factors of vitamin D among children aged 0 to 6 years in a Chinese population
Authors: Zhang Heng , Li Zhijuan , Wei Yarong , Fu Jinyan , Feng Yaling , Chen Daozhen , Xu De-xiang
Published: March 2020

Background : Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency in childhood are common. However, the status and influential factors of vitamin D during different ages are not clear. This study aimed to survey vitamin D concentrations in children aged 0 to 6 years and explore its influential factors. Methods: A total of 6953 children were recruited in Wuxi City of East China from January to December in 2016. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine the serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D]. Results: The median vitamin D concentrations in the infant group (0-1 years of age) was 69.40 nmol/L, which were higher than that in both the toddlerhood group (1-3 years of age; 62.30 nmol/L) and the preschool group (3-6 years of age; 50.85 nmol/L). In addition, the median vitamin D concentrations were 71.70 nmol/L in summer, which was higher than that in spring (64.25 nmol/L), autumn (62.95 nmol/L) and winter (64.10 nmol/L). However, no difference was observed between genders ( P = 0.974). Furthermore, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (<50 nmol/L) was 48.1% in the preschool group (3-6 years of age), which was higher than the 21.2% vitamin D deficiency in the toddlerhood group (1-3 years of age) and the 17.9% vitamin D deficiency in the infant group (0-1 years of age). Interestingly, a nonlinear association between 25(OH)D and air temperature was observed. Conclusions: A high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was common in a Chinese population of children 0-6 years old, especially in the preschool-aged children. Therefore, we suggested that we should pay more attention to vitamin D supplementation in Chinese young children.
Development of the Japanese Version of the Other as Shamer Scale using Item Response Theory
Authors: Hiramatsu Yoichi , Asano Kenichi , Kotera Yasuhiro , Sensui Toshihiko , Endo Ayumu , Shimizu Eiji , Basran Jaskaran , Goss Ken
Published: March 2020

Objective; ResultsExternal shame is reflective of a person’s anxiety that he or she might be rejected by others. The Other As Shamer Scale (OAS) is a scale for assessing external shame. The Japanese version of OAS was developed, and its reliability and validity were examined using Item Response Theory (IRT).
Results; A questionnaire survey was conducted with university students (N=199). Exploratory factor analysis of the results indicated a significantly high factor loading on the first factor, which was identical to the original version of the scale, as well as high internal consistency. Moreover, results confirmed that each item had adequate discrimination and information levels, suggesting that external shame could be discriminated with high accuracy with a wide range between relatively low and relatively high external shame groups. These results suggested that this scale could be used for screening external shame as a stress factor and for assessing intervention effects.
Fertility intentions and the way they change following birth- a prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Preis Heidi , Tovim Selen , Mor Pnina , Grisaru-Granovsky Sorina , Samueloff Arnon , Benyamini Yael
Published: March 2020

Introduction: Women's fertility intentions, their desired number of children and desired inter-pregnancy interval (IPI) are related to micro (personal) and macro (socio-cultural) level factors. We investigated factors that contribute to changes in women's fertility intentions in Israel, a developed country with high birth rates.
Methods: Pregnant women (N=1163), recruited from prenatal clinics and hospitals in two major metropolitan areas, completed self-report questionnaires prenatally (≥24 weeks gestation) and postpartum (two months after childbirth). Women reported their socio-demographic background and obstetric history prenatally, their desired number of children and IPI at both time-points, and their objective and subjective birth experiences postpartum. Results: The findings indicated that background characteristics were related to prenatal fertility intentions. The strongest contributor to prenatal fertility intentions was degree of religiosity- the more religious women were, the more children they desired and the shorter their desired IPI. Women's postpartum fertility intentions were mostly consistent with their prenatal reports. In regression models, only being very-religious, more educated, and previously giving birth were protective against a decrease in desired number of children from before birth to after birth. Greater birth satisfaction and giving birth for the first time were protective of changing desired IPI.
Conclusion: Having a negative birth experience could adversely affect women's fertility intentions, but in a pronatalist and medicalized birth culture, social pressures may decrease the effects of birth experiences on fertility intentions.
Keywords: Fertility Intentions; Birth Experience; Religiosity; Interpregnancy Interval; Mode of Delivery.
An 8 week open-label interventional multicenter study to evaluate the lung clearance index as endpoint for clinical trials in cystic fibrosis patients ≥8 years of age, chronically infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Sutharsan Sivagurunathan , Naehrig Susanne , Mellies Uwe , Sieder Christian , Zeigler joerg
Published: March 2020

Background Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV 1 ) is the only parameter currently recognized as a surrogate endpoint in cystic fibrosis (CF) trials. However, FEV 1 is relatively insensitive to changes in the small airways of patients with milder lung disease. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the lung clearance index (LCI) as a marker for use in efficacy trials with inhaled antibiotics in CF. Methods This open-label, single-arm study enrolled CF patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection, who were treated with tobramycin (28-day on/off regime). FEV 1 , LCI and bacterial load in sputum (CFU) were assessed at baseline, after 1, 4 and 8 weeks of treatment. Results All patients (n=17) showed elevated LCI of >11 despite 3 patients having normal FEV 1 (>90% predicted) at baseline. Overall, LCI improved in 8 (47%) patients and FEV 1 in 9 (53%) patients. At week 4, LCI improved by 0.88, FEV 1 increased by 0.52%, and P. aeruginosa reduced by 30481.3 CFU/mL. These changes were however statistically non-significant. Six adverse events occurred in 5/17 (29.4%) patients, most of which were mild-to-moderate in severity. Conclusions Due to the low evaluable sample size, no specific trend was observed related to the changes between LCI, FEV1 and CFU. Based on the individual data from this study and from recently published literature, LCI has been shown to be a more sensitive parameter than FEV1 for lung function. LCI can hypothesized to be an appropriate endpoint for efficacy trials in CF patients if the heterogeneity in lung function is limited by enrolling younger patients or patients with more milder lung disease and thus, limiting the ventilation inhomogeneities. Trial registration : The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT02248922
iNOS is not responsible for RyR1 S-nitrosylation in mdx mice with truncated dystrophin.
Authors: Nogami Ken'ichiro , Maruyama Yusuke , Elhussieny Ahmed , Sakai-Takemura Fusako , Tanihata Jun , Kira Jun-ichi , Miyagoe-Suzuki Yuko , Takeda Shin'ichi
Published: March 2020

Background: Previous research indicated that nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is the key molecule for S-nitrosylation of ryanodine receptor 1 (RyR1) in DMD model mice ( mdx mice) and that both neuronal NOS (nNOS) and inducible NOS (iNOS) might contribute to the reaction because nNOS is mislocalized in the cytoplasm and iNOS expression is higher in mdx mice. We investigated the effect of iNOS on RyR1 S-nitrosylation in mdx mice and whether transgenic expression of truncated dystrophin reduced iNOS expression in mdx mice or not. Methods: Three- to 4-month-old C57BL/6J, mdx , and transgenic mdx mice expressing exon 45-55-deleted human dystrophin (Tg/ mdx mice) were used. We also generated two double mutant mice, mdx iNOS KO and Tg/ mdx iNOS KO to reveal the iNOS contribution to RyR1 S-nitrosylation. nNOS and iNOS expression levels in skeletal muscle of these mice were assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC), qRT-PCR, and Western blotting. Total NOS activity was measured by a citrulline assay. A biotin-switch method was used for detection of RyR1 S-nitrosylation. Statistical differences were assessed by one-way ANOVA with Tukey-Kramer post-hoc analysis. Results: mdx and mdx iNOS KO mice showed the same level of RyR1 S-nitrosylation. Total NOS activity was not changed in mdx iNOS KO mice compared with mdx mice. iNOS expression was undetectable in Tg/ mdx mice expressing exon 45-55-deleted human dystrophin, but the level of RyR1 S-nitrosylation was the same in mdx and Tg/ mdx mice. Conclusion: Similar levels of RyR1 S-nitrosylation and total NOS activity in mdx and mdx iNOS KO demonstrated that the proportion of iNOS in total NOS activity was low, even in mdx mice. Exon 45-55-deleted dystrophin reduced the expression level of iNOS, but it did not correct the RyR1 S-nitrosylation. These results indicate that iNOS was not involved in RyR1 S-nitrosylation in mdx and Tg /mdx muscles.
Strain-resolved Dynamics of the Lung Microbiome in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Dmitrijeva Marija , Kahlert Christian , Feigelman Rounak , Kleiner Rebekka , Nolte Oliver , Albrich Werner , Baty Florent , Von Mering Christian
Published: March 2020

Background In cystic fibrosis, dynamic and complex communities of microbial pathogens and commensals colonize the lung. Cultured isolates from lung sputum reveal high inter- and intraindividual variability in pathogen strains, sequence variants, and phenotypes; disease progression likely depends on the precise combination of infecting strains. Routine clinical protocols, however, provide limited overview of the colonizer populations. A more comprehensive and precise identification and characterization of infecting strains could therefore assist in making corresponding decisions on treatment. Results Here, we propose a minimally invasive and culture-independent way to monitor microbial lung content. We describe longitudinal tracking of four patients with cystic fibrosis over several months, including repeated sampling and bulk DNA sequencing of sputum. We find that the taxonomic identity of individual lineages can be easily established. Crucially, even superficially clonal pathogens can be subdivided into multiple sub-strains at the sequence level. By tracking individual allelic differences over time, an assembly-free clustering approach allows us to reconstruct multiple strain-specific genomes with clear structural differences. Conclusions We emphasize the advantages of metagenomics sequencing of longitudinal data for taxonomic identification of microbial colonizers in cystic fibrosis lungs. Our study is the first to track sub-strain pathogen dynamics using a culture-independent approach, with a perspective of high-resolution routine characterization of disease progression that may allow to more accurately monitor treatment outcomes and tailor treatment.
Incidence and Risk Factors of Postoperative Delirium Following Primary Elective Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Nationwide Inpatient Sample Database Study
Authors: Yang Qinfeng , Wang Jian , Huang Xusheng , Xu Yichuan , Zhang Yang
Published: March 2020

Background Postoperative delirium is a common complication following major surgeries, leading to a variety of adverse effects. However, there is a paucity of literatures studying the incidence and risk factors of delirium after primary elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) using a large-scale national database. Methods A retrospective database analysis was performed based on Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) from 2009-2014. Patients who underwent primary elective THA were included. Patient demographics, comorbidities, length of hospital stay (LOS), total charges, in-hospital mortality, and major and minor perioperative complications were evaluated. Results A total of 388,424 primary elective THAs were obtained from the NIS database, and the general incidence of delirium after THA was 0.90%. Patients with delirium after THA presented more comorbidities, increased LOS, extra hospital charges, and higher in-hospital mortality rate (P<0.001). Delirium following THA was associated with major complications during hospitalization including acute renal failure and pneumonia. Risk factors of postoperative delirium included advanced age, alcohol or drug abuse, depression, neurological disorders, psychoses, fluid and electrolyte disorders, diabetes, weight loss, deficiency anemia, coagulopathy, hypertension, congestive heart failure, valvular disease, pulmonary circulation disorders, peripheral vascular disorders, and renal failure. Both female and obesity were detected to be protective factors. Conclusions The results of our study identified a relatively low incidence of delirium after primary elective THA. Postoperative delirium of THA was associated with increased comorbidities, LOS, total charges, in-hospital mortality, and major perioperative complications including acute renal failure and pneumonia. It is of benefit to study risk factors of postoperative delirium to moderate its consequences.
Risk factors for lymph node metastasis and surgical methods in patients with early-stage peripheral lung adenocarcinoma presenting as ground glass opacity
Authors: wang yongming , jing lijun , wang gongchao
Published: March 2020

Background It is difficult to predict lymph node metastasis in patients with early lung cancer. Pure ground glass opacity (GGO) on computed tomography indicates an early-stage adenocarcinoma that can be removed by limited resection or lobectomy without the need for mediastinal lymph node dissection or sampling, and lung adenocarcinoma with GGO therefore has a good prognosis. We examined the incidence and risk factors of lymph node metastasis in patients with clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinoma. Methods We retrospectively analyzed clinical data for 327 patients with stage IA peripheral lung cancer treated in our hospital from March 2014 to December 2018. The patients were divided into four groups according to computed tomography signs. Lobectomy and systematic lymph node dissection or sampling were performed in all patients. Correlations between lymph node metastasis and clinical pathological factors were analyzed by logistic regression. Results Among the 327 patients, 26 (7.95%) had lymph node metastasis. No patients with pure GGO or GGO-dominant types had lymph node metastasis. Logistic regression identified tumor diameter, solid content, plasma carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level, pathological type, lymphovascular invasion, and pleural invasion as factors related to the presence of lymph node metastasis. Conclusions Tumor diameter, solid component ratio, plasma CEA level, pathological type, vascular tumor thrombus, and pleural invasion are possible independent risk factors for lymph node metastasis in patients with stage IA lung adenocarcinoma. In contrast, lymph node metastasis is rare in patients with pure GGO or GGO-dominant lung adenocarcinoma.
Identification of an immune gene signature with prognostic value for patients with uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Cankun , Li Chaomei , Yan Fangli , Zheng Yuhua
Published: March 2020

Background: Uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC) is a very common gynecological malignancy with a poor prognosis in the late stage. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine an immune-related gene signature that predicts the patients’ OS for UCEC. Methods: Based on TCGA, ImmPort, and Cistrome databases, the differential immune genes were screened and the TFs regulatory network was constructed. Functional enrichment and pathway analysis of differential immune genes were carried out. Prognostic value of 410 immune genes was analyzed by Cox regression analysis, a prognostic model was constructed, ROC curves were used to verify the accuracy of the model, and independent prognostic analysis was performed. Finally, the immune cell content was obtained by TIMER, and the correlation with the immune gene expression was evaluated by univariate Cox regression analysis. Results: It was found that the immune cell microenvironment and PI3K-Akt, MARK signaling pathways were involved in the development of UCEC. Based on the established prognostic model, ten-gene prognosis signature (PDIA3, LTA, PSMC4, TNF, SBDS, HDGF, HTR3E, NR3C1, PGR, CBLC) for UCEC prognostic prediction were finally identified, and our study has shown that risk-score can be a powerful prognostic factor for UCEC, independent of other clinical factors. The levels of B cells and neutrophils may be significantly correlated with the patient's risk score. Conclusions: Our studies showed that the ten-gene prognosis signature had important clinical value for the prognosis of UCEC, which was helpful for individualized treatment and provided a new target for tumor immunotherapy.
Circ_LDLR promoted the development of papillary thyroid carcinoma via regulating miR-195-5p/LIPH axis
Authors: Gui Xiaolong , Li Yan , Zhang Xiaobin , Su Ka , Cao Wenlong
Published: March 2020

Background: Emerging studies have demonstrated that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are key regulators for tumorigenesis in cancers, including papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). In this study, we attempted to explore the effects of circ_LDLR on PTC. Methods: Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was adopted to determine the levels of circ_LDLR, miR-195-5p and lipase H (LIPH). RNase R digestion assay and Actinomycin D assay were utilized to analyze the characteristics of circ_LDLR. Colony formation assay and 3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay were employed to evaluate cell proliferation. Western blot assay was used for the determination of protein levels. Flow cytometry analysis was applied to determine cell apoptosis. Transwell assay was performed to assess cell migration and invasion. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was used to verify the associations among circ_LDLR, miR-195-5p and LIPH. The murine xenograft model was constructed to explore the roles of circ_LDLR in vivo . Results: Compared to normal tissues and cells, circ_LDLR was upregulated in PTC tissues and cells. Silencing of circ_LDLR suppressed PTC cell colony formation, proliferation, migration and invasion and promoted apoptosis in vitro and hampered tumor growth in vivo. For mechanism investigation, circ_LDLR could regulate LIPH expression via sponging miR-195-5p. Moreover, miR-195-5p inhibition restored the effects of circ_LDLR knockdown on the malignant behaviors of PTC cells. MiR-195-5p overexpression inhibited PTC cell colony formation, proliferation, migration and invasion and facilitated apoptosis by targeting LIPH. Conclusion: Circ_LDLR knockdown decelerated PTC progression by regulating miR-195-5p/LIPH axis, which might provide a novel therapeutic target for PTC.
High Hip Center Technique in Total Hip Arthroplasty for Crowe Type II-III Developmental Dysplasia: Results of Midterm Follow-up
Authors: Shen Junmin , Zhou Yonggang , Sun Jingyang , Ma Haiyang , Du Yinqiao , Li Tiejian
Published: March 2020

Background: High hip center technique is still controversial about the survivorship of prothesis and postoperative limp. We aimed to show the utility of high hip center technique used in patients with Crowe II-III developmental dysplasia of the hip at the midterm follow-up and evaluated the clinical and radiographic results between different heights of hip center.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 69 patients (85 hips) with Crowe II-III dysplasia who underwent a high hip center cementless total hip arthroplasty at a mean follow up of 8.9 years (range, 6.0-14.1). The patients were divided into two groups according to the height of hip center, respectively group A (≥22mm and <28mm) and group B (≥28mm). Radiographic, functional and survivorship outcomes were evaluated.Results: There were no statistically significant differences between two groups in horizontal distance, offset, abductor lever arm, leg length discrepancy and cup inclination. At the final follow up, the WOMAC and Harris hip scores were excellent in both groups. Of the 85 hips, 7 (8.2%) showed a positive Trendelenburg sign. Besides, 6 patients (8.7%) had a symptom of claudication. No significant differences were shown regarding the Harris hip score, WOMAC score, Trendelenburg sign and claudication between two groups. The Kaplan-Meier 8-year implants survivorship rates for all-causes revisions in group A and group B were similar (96.7% [95% confidence interval, 90.5%-100%] and 96.2% [95% confidence interval, 89.0%-100%], respectively).Conclusions: The high hip center technique is a valuable alternative to achieve excellent midterm results for Crowe II-III developmental dysplasia of the hip, preferably combined with COC interface or high crosslinked polyethylene liner.
Activation of FoxO1/SIRT1/RANKL/OPG pathway may underlie the therapeutic effects of resveratrol on aging-dependent male osteoporosis
Authors: Ameen Omnia , Yassien Rania I , Naguib Yahya M
Published: March 2020

Background Age-dependent male osteoporosis remains a poorly studied medical problem despite its significance. It is estimated that at least 1 of 5 men will suffer from osteoporotic consequences. Given that multiple mechanisms are involved in the process of senescence, much attention has been given to compounds with polymodal actions. To challenge such a health problem, we tested here the therapeutic potential of resveratrol in male osteoporosis. We also studied the possible molecular mechanisms that may underlie resveratrol effects. Methods Thirty male Wistar albino rats were used in the present study. Rats were divided (10/group) into: control (3–4 months old weighing 150- 200 g receiving vehicle), aged (18–20 months old, weighing 350–400 g and receiving vehicle), and resveratrol treated aged (18–20 months old, weighing 350–400 g and receiving resveratrol 20 mg/kg/day for 6 weeks) groups. Assessment of serum calcium, phosphate, bone specific alkaline phosphatase, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress markers, and rat femur gene expression of FoxO1, SIRT1, RANKL and OPG proteins was carried out. Histopathological assessment of different levels of rat femur was also performed. Results Age-dependent osteoporosis resulted in significant increase in serum levels of phosphate, bone specific alkaline phosphatase, hsCRP, IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, MDA, NO, and RANKL gene expression. However, there was significant decrease in serum level of GSH, and gene expression of FoxO1, SIRT1 and OPG. Osteoporotic changes were seen in femur epiphysis, metaphysis and diaphysis. Resveratrol restored significantly age-dependent osteoporotic changes. Conclusion We concluded that resveratrol can play an important role in the prevention of male osteoporosis. Resveratrol can counter the molecular changes in male osteoporosis via anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and gene modifying effects.
Prevalence of Ligamentous Knee Injuries in Pedestrian Versus Motor Vehicle Accidents
Authors: Steinmetz Raymond Garrett , McDonald Matthew , Tkach Shaun , Hamilton John , Heigle Gregory , Hollabaugh Kimberly , Teague David , Rowles Douglas
Published: March 2020

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and characteristics of ligamentous knee injuries and to compare patient demographics, associated injuries and hospital stay to pedestrians who did not sustain a ligamentous knee injury. Methods: A retrospective review of all adult patients presenting as pedestrians struck by a motor vehicle to a level 1 trauma center over a three-year period was performed. Demographics, length of stay, orthopedic and non-orthopedic traumatic injuries were recorded. Magnetic resonance imaging was reviewed for ligamentous, bony and chondral injuries. Results: 539 patients were included. 67 (12.4%) patients sustained a ligamentous knee injury and the majority of these were multi-ligamentous in nature. Patients with ligamentous knee injury were more likely to sustain traumatic brain injury, solid organ injury, cervical and lumbar spine injury, pelvic ring injuries, distal femur fractures, patella fractures, knee dislocations, tibial plateau fractures, tibial pilon fractures, and deep vein thrombosis when compared to patients who did not sustain ligamentous knee injury. Patients who sustained ligamentous knee injury were more likely to require hospital and intensive care admission and had a longer overall hospital stay. Conclusion: Given the high prevalence of ligamentous knee injuries in this patient population, these patients should be thoroughly evaluated for a ligamentous knee injury. If ligamentous knee injury is suspected, MRI should be considered as a majority of these injuries involved multiple structures. Patients with ligamentous knee injuries often had multi-system injuries with resulting longer hospital stay when compared to those without ligamentous knee injuries.
ADAM17 promotes the metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma via upregulation MMP21
Authors: Xiang Yuqi , Liu Liyu , Wang Ying , Li Bo , Peng Jinwu , Deyun Feng
Published: March 2020

Background The upregulation of ADAM17 has been reported to be associated with invasion and metastasis in various tumors, however the molecular mechanism of ADAM17 in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain to be clarified. Human matrix metalloproteinase 21 (MMP21), the newest member of the MMP gene family, has been suggested to play an important role in embryogenesis and tumor progression. So far, nothing is known about the relationship between ADAM17 and MMP21. Methods In this study, the expression level of ADAM17 and MMP21 in HCC tissues was measured by immunohistochemistry. The Scratch wounding assay and Transwell were used to identify the invasion and metastasis ability. ELISA was used to evaluate the production of MMP21. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated a direct association between ADAM17 and MMP21. HPLC was used to conﬁrmed that ADAM17 participated in the maturation of MMP21. Results Our present data indicated that ADAM17 and MMP21 was significantly upregulated in human HCC tissues. Knockdown of ADAM17 in HCC inhibited cell invasion and metastasis. Moreover, ADAM17 regulates the secretion and expression of MMP21. Furthermore we discovered a direct association between ADAM17 and MMP21, and we also found MMP21 prodomain could be cleaved by ADAM17. Conclusion Our data suggest that ADAM17 plays an important role in the development of HCC invasion and metastasis and this function may be implement by MMP21.