bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Fluid Flow Zones in the Reservoir and Behind-Casing Through the Second Derivative of the Flowing Temperature
Authors: González José W , Linares Alejandro , Meza Eliana , Chaparro Diana , Monzon Carlos
Published: July 2020

The objective of this paper is to identify zones of fluid movements in the reservoir and behind the casing using the second derivative of the flowing temperature (T) log in producing wells. Generally, the combination of static and flowing temperature is required in order to detect flow behind the casing, which implies shuting down the well and deferred production.

The temperature logs were acquired with a sensor of resolution of 0.018°F and logging speeds at 30, 60, 90 and 120 ft/min. So, the hysteresis of temperature sensor can be analyzed between runs going up and down. The average temperature of the running down logs were derived with respect to the depth (D), where the first derivative (dTdD) is the dynamic temperature gradient and the second derivative (d2TdD2) is the rate of change of this gradient. In order to identify the flow zones, behavior patterns were settled between production (PLT’s), noise and cementation logs with the second derivative of temperature. For an equilibrium system (non-flow zones) the second derivative values correspond to zero (d2TdD2=0), whilst for a dynamic condition (flow zones) the values are different to zero (d2TdD2≠0).

The results indicated that there is a direct relationship between the movement of fluids with the second temperature derivative in a reservoir-wellbore system. Besides, there is a 95% consistency with production logging (PLT´s) results. Coupled with this, the open hole gamma ray (GR) log was compared with the cased hole GR, and a radioactivity increment was observed in the water production intervals which match with the changes of the second derivative of the temperature. Based on those outcomes, it was possible to identify in the reservoir-wellbore system leaks, flow behind the casing, fluid contributions in the perforated intervals and aquifer influx. Finally, the results correlate with increased readings in the total Gamma Ray log, and spectral noise log.

This methodology does not require to log the static temperature to identify flow behind the casing, which means that it is not necessary to shut down the well. Consequently, the proposed workflow provides an additional tool for PLT’s interpretation and well integrity since the second derivative of temperature can detect small movements of fluids that the flowmeter can not. Additionally, it can also be used to monitor secondary recovery processes.
Failure Reduction and Time Optimization on Casing Rotation Operations in Directional Wells of Mature Fields in Ecuadorian Jungle
Authors: Hernández Sergio , Giol Cristian , Rodríguez Randall , Jaspe Rodriguez Jaysmlen Rodmilt
Published: July 2020

In the Ecuadorian jungle, operators use the same location to drill several deviated wells. The geometries of these "S" or "J" type wells present high dogleg severity (DLS) in different sections, requiring rotation and reaming of the casing string to reach the target depth. During the rotation in deviated sections, the combination of the resultant bending of the string and its rotation generate alternating stresses in the pipe body and the connections. Likewise, contact forces on the string during the process promote the increase of drag and torque that the casing string has to withstand during its installation. These service characteristics can lead to create the conditions for potential fatigue and over-torque damages in the components of the casing strings installed in these wells.

In order to reduce the occurrence of over-torque failures in the casing threaded connections, a detailed engineering analysis was performed. This analysis includes the use of a torque and drag model for simulations, as well as the selection and application of a connection in which has been incorporated torque shoulders and a controlled pin nose geometry.

The objective of this paper is to present the strategy applied to achieve the reduction failure occurrence and promote the time optimization during the casing running in these directional wells. Additionally, in order to show the most significant improvements of running casing strings taking into account the recommendations of the engineering analysis, some results obtained from the pilot phase of the overall project are also presented in this paper. Actually, a summary of all strings with this technology installed during the last three years in the country is included.

It is important to mention that after the pilot phase, Shaya Ecuador standardized the new connection for the production casing and liner of these wells. From the moment this connection was implemented, 82 strings (production casing and liner) have been run in both 9-5/8" and 7" sizes, successfully reaching all the target depths without any problems.
Solving the Challenges of a Complex Integrated Production System in Camisea Field Using Novel Modeling Techniques
Authors: Pathak Varun , Mirzabozorg Arash , Zuloaga Pavel , Dorival Vargas Jose Miguel , Klix Belen
Published: July 2020

Camisea asset is possibly the most important mega gas asset in South America, and constitutes for more than 90% of Peru’s gas production. The asset consists of several fields with varying degrees of subsurface complexities, multiple fluid types ranging from very lean to very rich gas condensate. The combined production is routed to gas processing plant via a network of pipelines. The entire development is in an environmentally sensitive area and adds to the complexity of the surface network design process. For these reasons, performing integrated production systems simulations is essential for designing the surface network with appropriate fidelities for each component of the IPSM.

In current work, a complex integrated production system was developed for Block A of the asset. It is a 2-field system with complex fluid behavior. The various fluids blend in the well tubings, as well in the combined surface network. The produced gas is treated in the plant for liquid extraction, and dry gas is routed for sales and re-injection. For all this work, a new multi-fidelity IPSM tool was used in both implicit as well as explicit coupling mode.

This was achieved by doing both implicit as well as explicit coupling of the reservoir simulation models with well models and surface network model. As a result of this work, a reliable long-term production forecast of the field could be performed. Additionally, the pipe design and network constraints could be evaluated and compression needs variation with time could be assessed. Lastly, with the use of a fit-for-purpose fidelity level for any IPSM component, more efficient and reliable forecasts could be readily generated.

A comparison between implicit and explicit coupling of IPSM components is generally missing from the available literature. This study fills in this gap by providing the option to do the two couplings using a single simulation tool, thus providing a consistent comparison. In addition to the various long-term production forecasts, the benefits and drawbacks of the two coupling approaches has been presented in this paper.
Quadrupole Processing to Enhance Shear Velocity Measurements in Slow Formations, for Characterization of Rock Mechanical Behavior
Authors: Arias Henry , Gonzalez Henry , Marquina Daniel , Puerta Juan , Rodriguez Luis , Sanchez Edwin , Kortam Taher , Lara Henry , Prado Roxiris , Romero Gerardo , Lopez Alexander
Published: July 2020

Sonic data are an important input to geomechanics models, and logging while drilling (LWD) sonic tools are an important source of these logs. A case study is presented from a field within the Llanos basin of Colombia where the field operator experienced wellbore stability problems in a 12 1/4‑in. hole section and needed to update the geomechanics model so the optimal mud-weight program and trajectories could be chosen.

Collecting reliable LWD sonic logs, particularly formation shear-slowness logs, was challenging because both fast and slow formations were encountered within a single bit-run and, consequently, both high-frequency refracted shear and low-frequency quadrupole modes were required to obtain reliable formation shear-slowness values at all depths. This required the firing of multiple transmitter modes over a broad-range of frequencies and recording and storing the resulting large quantity of data for subsequent processing.

How the required can be reliably recorded with the latest LWD sonic tools, and how the formation shear-slowness can be derived from the LWD quadrupole mode are described.
Nonlinear Regression Algorithm for Uncertainty Analysis in Production Data Measurements, Estancia Cholita, Santa Cruz, Argentina
Authors: Roddirguez Magdalena , Huter Augusto Carlos , Berrios Vicente , Bitopoulus Constantino , Pitrelli Guillermo Andres
Published: July 2020

Measured production data always has a degree of uncertainty which is not considered generally. Uncertainty in rates is defined as the size of its margin of doubt. It's crucial to characterize this uncertainty for various reasons; Reporting accurate rates while monitoring projects leads to better management decisions. It will give us a practical tool to evaluate the quality of a given measurement technology applied. Finally, if any operating condition is changed in a mature high water cut field like Estancia Cholita, it's crucial to determine oil percentage to evaluate the new operations success. Oil rates are usually quantified by measuring total liquid rates with test separator and then taking a sample to determine the oil percentage. There are so many factors causing uncertainty in these procedures (duration of the oil sampling, flow regimes, skills of the operator performing the measurement, etc.) that is difficult to fully describe error from a theoretical point of view.

A new comprehensive uncertainty method is proposed. First, a table of error as a function of water cut is presented by using error propagation theory. Second, real field data from forty different wells was analyzed. A well-defined period without any changes in operating conditions is chosen per well and an Arps decline curve is fitted. Then a histogram was created to establish an error distribution function (the error is defined as the difference between the measured rate and fitted curve prediction which is taken as the real state for calculation purposes). Finally, a correspondence between error and confidence interval was highlighted to repeated or monitored specifically. A new frequency proposal and test priority is presented. The wells are classified into type I type II and type II according to the relationship between flow and uncertainty. This classification is key to define a new measurement prioritization system

Impact of workovers and interventions in high water cut wells, like Estancia Cholita, are now monitored accurately. This allows improved control over production leading to better decision making. Specially, when monitoring a pilot, such as polymer injection where the accuracy of the devices used becomes very useful. Frequency and prioritization of rate measurements are specifically described for individual wells.

Using this novel approach, unnecessary measurements and operations are reduced. Having clean data could lead to a successful data mining analysis. Workovers and intervention impact on high water cut wells can be monitored more accurately. By knowing the error in the production rates, future projects will be well defined managed and evaluated.
Condensate Revaporization Using a Coreflooding Test, a Dynamic Approach to Evaluate Liquid Recovery in a Gas Condensate Reservoir, Case Study Camisea Region
Authors: Dorival Vargas Jose Miguel , Pairoys Fabrice
Published: July 2020

Some gas cycling projects are initiated due to a lack of sales markets, which is essentially a disposal project. However, this paper demonstrates the replication of a gas cycling project with similar field operational conditions, in Camisea region, using a coreflooding test. The main objective of the work presented in this paper is to take into consideration the reservoir, the fluid behavior, the operational cycling boundary conditions and monitoring the recovery factor of the liquid fraction using coreflooding to re-vaporize the condensate into the core.

A coreflooding test was carried out to simulate experimentally what the expected performance would be for a gas cycling process in one field at the Camisea region. A full barrel core of the most representative formation in this field was divided into small plugs to determine the rock properties with a CT scanner. Some of those plugs were setting in a stack arrangement to perform a condensate coreflooding program designed according the future operational conditions of the cycling project. A synthetic injection gas was made (90% methane-10% ethane). Furthermore, the current field operational conditions were used as the starting point to generate the assessment at the laboratory, and for that reason, a procedure from the initial to the current reservoir pressure conditions was developed in order to find the maximum liquid drop out. Finally, the effect of the dry gas being injected was observed together with monitoring the evolution of the liquid recovery.

Initial saturation at the core was measured using x-ray spectroscopy, and residual condensate saturation was calculated using the x-ray scanner together with a material balance. After running the two stages of the experiment (1. Equilibrium gas condensate, 2. Dry gas injection) for a constant reservoir pressure in the core, the results were successful with respect to the measurements for this kind of fluid, which is denominated lean gas. The depletion stage shows around of 45% liquid recovery, and the dry gas injection stage an additional 40%. The main conclusion is that the observation of the remaining liquid saturation, by means of monitoring the evolution of revaporization along the core with operational conditions, is similar to the gas cycling project.

Coreflooding tests that were performed prior to the implementation of a gas cycling project helps to significantly reduce the uncertainties over the main target, and the final results, with respect to the operational and economical assessments. The workflow used for this test provides a guideline to generate a best practice and provides a better means to estimate the additional incremental recovery factor rather than being dependent on only estimates from fluid laboratory analysis, or reservoir simulation engineering.
Well Performance Analysis of Vaca Muerta Unconventional Oil Wells Using Classic Integrated Production Modelling Tools to Identify Optimization Opportunities
Authors: Rabasedas Francisco , Trosolino Tania , Fernandez Biscay Federico , Fernandez Juarez Juan Jose
Published: July 2020

Define a methodology to estimate the behavior of naturally flowing shale oil wells from Vaca Muerta formation using traditional nodal analysis and a simplified reservoir model to identify optimization opportunities, surface network debottlenecking and forecast production.

The approach was based on applying classic material balance and nodal analysis to shale oil wells with certain modelling considerations such as a two-tank material balance model per well to describe fracture stimulated reservoir volume and matrix. Nodal analysis with production estimated inflow performance relationship (IPR) is then used to calibrate and predict well performance.

Well performance for each of the naturally flowing wells of one of the main unconventional oil plays was successfully matched. The material balance models that were developed were able to accurately reproduce production history and the well by well forecast obtained was in line with decline curve analysis (DCA) based estimations. Using nodal analysis for each well we were able to predict production response to choke management and define the optimum timing for tubing installation.

This work shows how a simple methodology based on classic reservoir engineering methods can be used to approximate the behavior of unconventional shale oil wells and provide additional input and understanding to both reservoir and production engineers.
Impact of Medical Professionals on Carbapenem-Resistant Pseudomonas Aeruginosa: Moderating Effect of Workload Based on the Panel Data in China
Authors: Han Meng , Zhang Xinping
Published: July 2020

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), especially carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA), causes a serious increase in morbidity, mortality and costs. Medical professionals play an important role in curbing AMR. Previous studies overlooked the impact of workload on the relationship between medical professionals and AMR. This study aimed to explore the relationship between medical professionals and the CRPA rate as well as the moderating effect of medical professionals’ workload on this relationship. Methods: A provincial-level panel dataset from 2014 to 2017 was constructed. Medical professionals were measured by the numbers of physicians, registered nurses, pharmacists, and clinical microbiologists per 1000 population. Workload was measured by the number of daily physician visits. Fixed effect model and hierarchical regression analysis were performed to explore the moderating effect of workload on medical professionals and the CRPA rate. Results: The numbers of physicians, registered nurses, pharmacists and clinical technicians were signiﬁcantly negative associated with the CRPA rate (coef. = -0.889, -0.775, -1.176, and -0.822; P= 0.003, 0.003, 0.011, and 0.007, respectively). Workload had a significant and positive moderating effect on physicians, registered nurses, pharmacists, clinical technicians and the CRPA rate (coef.= 1.270, 1.400, 2.210, and 1.634; P=0.004, 0.001, 0.035, and 0.003, respectively). Conclusions: Increasing the number of medical professionals may help curb the CRPA rate. Measures aimed at reducing medical professionals’ workload should be implemented to further improve CRPA performance.
Downregulated ZNF132 Predicts Unfavorable Outcomes in Breast Cancer via Hypermethylation Modification
Authors: liu zhao , Liu Jiaxin , Liu Ruimiao , Xue Man , Zhang Weifan , Zhao Xinhui , Zhu jiang , Xia Peng
Published: July 2020

Background: An important mechanism that promoter methylation-mediated gene silencing for gene inactivation, is identified in human tumorigenesis. Although a serious of methylated genes have been found in breast cancer (BC), beneficial biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognostic assessment of this cancer remain little known. ZNF132 has been reported to be downregulated by promoter methylation in prostate cancer and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. However, no study provides information on the status of ZNF132 as well as analyzes diagnosis and prognostic significance of ZNF132 in BC.Methods: In the present study, we investigated the expression of ZNF132 mRNA and protein level based on the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) RNA-Seq database and clinical samples analysis as well as multiple cancer cell lines verification. Besides, prognostic significance of ZNF132 in BC was assessed by the Kaplan-Meier plotter. Importantly, a molecular mechanisms exploration of ZNF132 in BC was performed using the multiple bioinformatic tools. Simultaneously, hypermethylated status of ZNF132 in BC cell lines was confirmed via MSP analysis. Results: A consistent results, the expression of ZNF132 both the mRNA and protein levels was significantly downregulated in BC tissues, were obtained based on TCGA database and clinical sample analysis.Survival analysis from the Kaplan-Meier plotter revealed that the lower level of ZNF132 was associated with a shorter Relapse Free Survival (RFS) time. Besides, a ROC of 0.887 confirmed ZNF132 had powerful sensitivity and specificity to distinguish between BC and adjacent normal tissues. Importantly, bioinformatic analysis brought us into a deep insight that 6% ((58/960)) alterations of ZNF132 were identified from cBioPortal. ZNF132 participated in multiple biological pathways based on the GSEA database, including the regulation of cell cycle and glycolysis. Finally, MSP analysis demonstrated that ZNF132 was hypermethylated in a panel of breast cancer cell lines and 5-aza-2’-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-dC) treatment significantly restored ZNF132 expression in partial cell lines. Conclusions: Our results revealed that hypermethylation of ZNF132 contributed to its downregulated expression and could be identified as a new diagnostic and prognostic marker in BC.
Leishmania infection induces a limited differential gene expression in the sand fly midgut
Authors: Coutinho-Abreu Iliano V. , Serafim Tiago D. , Meneses Claudio , Kamhawi Shaden , Oliveira Fabiano , Valenzuela Jesus G.
Published: July 2020

Background: Sand flies are the vectors of Leishmania parasites. To develop in the sand fly midgut, Leishmania multiplies and undergoes various stage differentiations giving rise to the infective form, the metacyclic promastigotes. To determine the changes in sand fly midgut gene expression caused by the presence of Leishmania, we performed RNA-Seq of uninfected and Leishmania infantum-infected Lutzomyia longipalpis midguts from seven different libraries corresponding to time points which cover the various Leishmania developmental stages. Results: The combined transcriptomes resulted in the de novo assembly of 13,841 sand fly midgut transcripts. Importantly, only 113 sand fly transcripts, about 1%, were differentially expressed in the presence of Leishmania parasites. Further, we observed distinct differentially expressed sand fly midgut transcripts corresponding to the presence of each of the various Leishmania stages suggesting that each parasite stage influences midgut gene expression in a specific manner. Two main patterns of sand fly gene expression modulation were noted. At early time points (days 1-4), more transcripts were down-regulated by Leishmania infection at large fold changes (> 32 fold). Among the down-regulated genes, the transcription factor Forkhead/HNF-3 and hormone degradation enzymes were differentially regulated on day 2 and appear to be the upstream regulators of nutrient transport, digestive enzymes, and peritrophic matrix proteins. Conversely, at later time points (days 6 onwards), most of the differentially expressed transcripts were up-regulated by Leishmania infection with small fold changes (< 32 fold). The molecular functions of these genes have been associated with the metabolism of lipids and detoxification of xenobiotics. Conclusion: Overall, our data suggest that the presence of Leishmania produces a limited change in the midgut transcript expression profile in sand flies. Further, Leishmania modulates sand fly gene expression early on in the developmental cycle in order to overcome the barriers imposed by the midgut, yet it behaves like a commensal at later time points where a massive number of parasites in the anterior midgut results only in modest changes in midgut gene expression.
Long Acting Reversible Contraception use and associated factors among postpartum women in Hossana Town, Southern Ethiopia: cross sectional study
Authors: Woldu Biruktawit Fekade , Ermolo Tadesse Lelago , Lemu Lidiya Gutema , Gejo Negeso Gebeyehu
Published: July 2020

Background: In low and middle-income countries, 95% of postpartum women want to avoid a pregnancy for 2 years, but 70% are not using contraception. Delay in use of contraception by couples during postpartum period can result in many unwanted pregnancies. Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) is ideal for postpartum women. Therefore this study aimed at assessing the prevalence and factors associated with LARC use among postpartum women.Methods: Facility based cross sectional study was conducted from July 23-Aug 25, 2018. Systematic random sampling technique was employed to recruit a total of 381 women in extended postpartum period visiting Child Immunization service in hosanna health institutions. Pretested structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 20. Binary and multivariate logistic regression analysis was done. The presence and strength of association was determined using AOR with its 95% CI. Variables with P value less than 0.05 were considered as statistical significant. Results: The prevalence of LARC use was 36.5% (95%CI (33.05-39.95)). The main reason for not using LARC was fear of side effect and false information. Previous use of LARC (AOR=3.3, 95%CI (1.7-6.5)) and have ever discussed with health providers on LARC (AOR=2.5, 95%CI (1.1-5.74)) were found to be significantly associated with LARC use. Conclusions: The utilization of LARC among postpartum women was found to be higher than other studies in Ethiopia. Provision of effective contraceptive counseling during Antenatal, delivery and postnatal care services with emphasis on LARC/Postpartum Intra-Uterine Device is important.
Differential Diagnostic Value of Bilateral Inferior Petrosal Sinus Sampling (BIPSS) in ACTH-Dependent Cushing Syndrome: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Hao , Ba Ying , Xing Qian , Cai Run-Ce
Published: July 2020

Background: Previous studies have shown inconsistent results about the usefulness of bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling (BIPSS) in differential diagnosis of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-dependent Cushing syndrome. This meta-analysis evaluated the diagnostic value of BIPSS via the published literature.Methods: This study searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane library, and Wanfang database for published data on the use of BIPSS in Cushing syndrome differential diagnosis as of October 2019. Sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated based on the relevant data.Results: This meta-analysis included a total of 23 studies with 1,617 patients. The calculated sensitivity, specificity, PLR, and NLR were 0.94 (95% confidence interval, CI: 0.91–0.96), 0.89 (95% CI: 0.79–0.95), 8.8 (95% CI: 4.3–17.9), and 0.07 (95% CI: 0.04–0.11), respectively. The pooled DOR and area under the ROC curve were 129 (95% CI: 48–345) and 0.97 (95% CI: 0.95–0.98), respectively.Conclusion: This meta-analysis indicated that BIPSS had high diagnostic value for detecting ACTH in patients with ACTH-dependent Cushing syndrome, and BIPSS should be used as a routine method to identify ACTH-secretion sources.
The influence of integrated geriatric outpatient clinics on the health care utilization of older people
Authors: WEI YU-JU , Hsieh Cheng-Fang , Huang Yu-Ting , Huang Ming-Shyan , Fang Tzu-Jung
Published: July 2020

Background: The number of people above the age of 65 years is growing in many countries. Taiwan will be a superaged society in 2026, and health care utilization will increase considerably. Our study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the geriatric integrated outpatient clinic model for reducing health care utilization by in older people.Methods: This was a retrospective case-control study. Patients aged more than 65 years seen at the geriatric outpatient clinic (Geri-OPD) and non-geriatric outpatient clinics (non-Geri-OPD) at a single medical centre were age- and sex-matched. Data on the number of outpatient clinic visits, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations and medical expenditures were collected in the first and second years. A subgroup analysis by Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) and older age (age≧80 years old) was performed, and the results were compared between the Geri-OPD and non-Geri-OPD groups.Results: A total of 6723 patients were included (3796 women and 2927 men). The mean age was 80.42 ± 6.39 years. There were 1291 (19.2%) patients from the Geri-OPD group and 5432 (80.8%) patients from the non-Geri-OPD group. After one year of regular follow-up, the Geri-OPD patients showed a significant reduction in the types of drugs included in each prescription (5.62±10.85) and the number of clinic visits per year (18.18 ± 48.85) (P<0.01). After a two-year follow-up, the number of clinic visits, emergent department visits, and hospitalizations and the annual medical costs were still decreased in the Geri-OPD patients. The Geri-OPD patients had more comorbidities and a higher rate of health care utilization than the non-Geri-OPD patients. In the subgroup analysis, patients with more comorbidities (CCI≧2) and older age (≧80 years old) in the Geri-OPD group showed a significant reduction in health care utilization. The Geri-OPD patients also showed a significant decrease in medical utilization in the second year compared to the non-Geri-POD patients.Conclusion: The Geri-OPD reduced medical costs, the number of drugs prescribed, and the frequency of outpatient clinic visits, emergency department visits and hospitalizations in complicated elderly patients. The effect was even better in the second year.Trial registration: Not applicable
Laboratory colonization by Dirofilaria immitis alters the microbiome of female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes
Authors: Adegoke Abdulsalam , Neff Erik , Geary Amie , Husser Montana Ciara , Wilson Kevin , Norris Shawn Michael , Dharmarajan Guha , Karim Shahid
Published: July 2020

Background: The ability of blood-feeding arthropods to successfully acquire and transmit pathogens of medical and veterinary importance has been shown to be interfered with, or enhanced by, the arthropod’s native microbiome. Mosquitoes transmit viruses, protozoan and filarial nematodes, the majority of which contribute to the 17% of infectious disease cases worldwide. Dirofilaria immitis, a mosquito-transmitted filarial nematodes of dogs and cats, is vectored by several mosquito species including Aedes aegypti.Methods: In this study, we investigated the impact of D. immitis colonization on the microbiome of laboratory reared female Ae. aegypti. Metagenomic analysis of the V3-V4 variable region of the microbial 16S RNA gene was used for identification of the microbial differences down to species level.Results: We generated a total of 1068 OTUs representing 16 phyla, 181 genera and 271 bacterial species. Overall, in order of abundance, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria and Firmicutes were the most represented phylum with D. immitis-infected mosquitoes having more of Proteobacteria (71%) than uninfected mosquitoes (56.9%). An interesting finding in this study is the detection of Klebsiella oxytoca in relatively similar abundance in infected and uninfected mosquitoes, suggesting a possible endosymbiotic relationship, and has been previously shown to indirectly compete for nutrients with fungi on domestic housefly eggs and larvae. While D. immitis colonization has no effect on the overall species richness, we identified significant differences in the composition of selected bacterial genera and phyla between the two groups. We also reported distinct compositional and phylogenetic differences in the individual bacterial species when commonly identified bacteria were compared.Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to understand the impact of a filarial infection on the microbiome of its mosquito vector. Further studies are required to identify bacteria species that could play an important role in the mosquito biology. While the microbiome composition of Ae. aegypti mosquito have been previously reported, our study shows that in an effort to establish itself, a filarial nematode modifies and alters the overall microbial diversity within its mosquito host.
Cultural adaptation and psychometric evaluation of the Swedish version of the Reproductive Concerns After Cancer (RCAC) scale
Authors: Anandavadivelan Poorna , Wiklander Maria , Eriksson Lars E. , Wettergren Lena , Lampic Claudia
Published: July 2020

Background Reproductive concerns are common among young cancer survivors and include worries related to different aspects of fertility and parenthood. The Reproductive Concerns After Cancer (RCAC) scale is an 18-item scale with six dimensions, developed to capture a variety of such concerns. The aim of the present study was to describe the cultural adaptation of the RCAC scale into Swedish and evaluate its psychometric properties among young women who have undergone treatment for cancer.Methods The RCAC was forward translated from English into Swedish and assessed for cultural adaptation based on a two-panel approach followed by cognitive interviews with the target group. For the psychometric evaluation, a Swedish cohort of 181 female young adult breast cancer survivors completed a survey including the RCAC scale approximately 1.5 years post-diagnosis. Psychometric properties were examined by analyses of construct validity (confirmatory factor analysis and convergent validity), data quality (score distribution, floor and ceiling effects), reliability and known-groups validity. Results The confirmatory factor analysis yielded an acceptable fit (RMSEA 0.08, SRMR 0.09, CFI 0.92). Convergent validity was demonstrated by a negative correlation of moderate size (-0.36) between the RCAC total score and the emotional functional scale of the EORTC QLQ-C30. Reliability measured with Revelle Ω total was satisfactory (0.73-0.92) for five of the dimensions, and poor for the dimension Becoming pregnant (Revelle Ω total = 0.60); Cronbach’s alpha showed a similar pattern. Known-groups validity was indicated by significantly higher RCAC mean score differences (MD), reflecting more concerns, among women with a certain (MD 4.56 [95% CI 3.13 to 5.99]) or uncertain (MD 3.41 [95% CI 1.68 to 5.14]) child wish, compared to those with no wish for (additional) children. Conclusion The translation and cultural adaptation of the Swedish RCAC has resulted in a scale demonstrating construct and known-groups validity, and satisfactory reliability for five of six dimensions. The dimension Becoming pregnant showed non-optimal internal consistency and should undergo further evaluation. The Swedish RCAC is recommended to be used in research settings for measurement of concerns related to fertility and parenthood in young women with cancer.
Comparison of the clinicopathological characteristics and their impact on outcomes of resected colorectal liver metastases across time
Authors: Chen Lionel , Syn Nicholas L. , Goh Brian K. P. , Cheow Peng Chung , Raj Prema , Koh Yexin , Chung Alexander , Lee Ser Yee , Ooi London Lucien , Chan Chung Yip , Teo Jin Yao
Published: July 2020

Background Resection of colorectal liver metastases (CLM) has been established as the standard of care. This study aims to compare the change in clinicopathological characteristics of patients who underwent curative resection of CLM across two time periods – 2000 to 2010 (P1) and 2011 to 2016 (P2) and evaluate the prognostic impact of these characteristics on survival outcomes. Methods Patients who undergo liver resection for CLM at Singapore General Hospital from January 2000 to December 2016 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. The primary end point was overall survival. Results There were 183/318 (57.5%) patients and 135/318 (42.5%) patients in P1 and P2 respectively. There was a lower proportion of patients who had nodal metastases from primary colorectal cancer and clinical risk score (CRS) less than 3 in P2 when compared to P1. There was no difference in survival between both time periods. Independent predictors of survival for the cohort were CEA levels ≥200ng/ml, primary tumour grade and lymph nodal status. Independent predictors of poor survival in P1 were poorly differentiated colorectal cancer and nodal metastases while in P2, independent predictors of poor survival were multiple liver metastases and nodal metastases.Conclusion Nodal metastases from primary colorectal cancer is an independent predictor of poor survival across time for resectable CLM. Although there is no difference in survival between the two time periods, patients with multiple liver metastases should be carefully considered prior to surgery as it is also an independent predictor of overall survival.
Next-Generation Sequencing Analysis of Endometrial Screening Liquid-Based Cytology Specimens: A Comparative Study to Tissue Specimens
Authors: Akahane Toshiaki , Kitazono Ikumi , Yanazume Shintaro , Kamio Masaki , Togami Shinichi , Sakamoto Ippei , Nohara Sachio , Yokoyama Seiya , Kobayashi Hiroaki , Hiraki Tsubasa , Suzuki Shinsuke , Ueno Shinichi , Tanimoto Akihide
Published: July 2020

Background: Liquid-based cytology (LBC) is now a widely used method for cytologic screening and cancer diagnosis. Since the cells are fixed with alcohol-based fixatives, and the specimens are stored in a liquid condition, LBC specimens are suitable for genetic analyses. Methods: Here, we established a small cancer gene panel, including 60 genes and 17 microsatellite markers for next-generation sequencing, and applied to residual LBC specimens obtained by endometrial cancer screening to compare with corresponding formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues. Results: A total of 49 FFPE and LBC specimens (n=24) were analyzed, revealing characteristic mutations for endometrial cancer, including PTEN, CTNNB1, PIK3CA, and PIK3R1 mutations. Eight cases had higher scores for both tumor mutation burden (TMB) and microsatellite instability (MSI), which agree with defective mismatch repair (MMR) protein expression. Paired endometrial LBC, and biopsied and/or resected FFPE tissues from 7 cases, presented almost identical mutations, TMB, and MSI profiles in all cases. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that our ad hoc cancer gene panel enabled the detection of therapeutically actionable gene mutations in endometrial LBC and FFPE specimens. Endometrial cancer LBC specimens offer an alternative and affordable source of molecular testing materials.
Pre- and Post-operative Differences Between Genders in Idiopathic Macular Holes
Authors: Wang Jing , Yu Yanping , Liang Xida , Wang Zengyi , Qi Biying , Liu Wu
Published: July 2020

Background: To compare idiopathic macular holes (IMHs) between male and female before and after surgery.Methods: Patients with IMHs of stage 3 and stage 4 who underwent 23-gauge vitrectomy were retrospectively enrolled. Pre-operative clinical features like age of onset, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were reviewed. Optical coherence tomography parameters including minimum linear diameter (MLD), central macular thickness and some other indexes were measured and calculated. Main surgical outcomes included the primary closure rate, the highest BCVA during follow-up, and the recovery duration. All the metrics mentioned above were compared between genders with appropriate statistical methods. Results: A total of 298 eyes from 280 patients (male: 51; female: 229) were enrolled. Compared with men, women demonstrated a significantly higher ratio of stage3/stage4 (P=0.045), larger horizontal MLD (P=0.009), but similar surgical outcomes except for a relatively longer recovery duration (P=0.024). For stage 3 IMHs, women exhibited significantly younger age of onset (P=0.023), larger MLD (P=0.003), and smaller height of the hole (P=0.029). However, for stage 4 IMHs, all the pre- and post-operative metrics showed no differences between genders.Conclusions: Female IMHs seem to demonstrate an earlier age of onset and larger size of hole, especially in IMHs of stage 3. However, these differences, which may owe to normal gender-related variations, have limited influence on the surgical outcomes.
Predictability and controlling factors of overpressure in the North Alpine Foreland Basin, SE Germany: An interdisciplinary post-drill analysis of the Geretsried GEN-1 Deep Geothermal Well
Authors: Drews Michael Christian , Hofstetter Peter , Zosseder Kai , Shipilin Vladimir , Stollhofen Harald
Published: July 2020

The North Alpine Foreland Basin in SE Germany Germany’s most active deep geothermal province. However, in its southern and eastern part the basin is considerably overpressured, which is a significant challenge for drilling deep geothermal wells. In this study, we combine drilling data and velocity-based pore pressure analyses with 3D basin modelling to assess the predictability and controlling factors of overpressure in the sub-regional context (area of 80 km x 50 km) around the Geretsried GEN-1 well, a deep geothermal exploration well in the southern part of the North Alpine Foreland Basin in SE Germany. Drilling data and velocity-based pore pressure analyses indicate overpressure maxima in the Lower Oligocene (Rupelian and Schoeneck Formation) and up to mild overpressure in the Upper Oligocene (Chattian) and Upper Cretaceous, except for the hydrostatically pressured northwestern part of the study area. 3D basin modelling calibrated to four hydrocarbon wells surrounding the Geretsried GEN-1 well demonstrates the dominating role of disequilibrium compaction and low permeability units related to overpressure generation in the North Alpine Foreland Basin. However, secondary overpressure generation mechanisms are likely contributing. Also, the impact of Upper Cretaceous shales, which are eroded in the northwestern part of the study area, on overpressure maintenance is investigated. The calibrated basin model is tested against the drilling history and velocity (VSP) data-based pore pressure estimate of the Geretsried GEN-1 well and reveals that pore pressure prediction is generally possible using 3D basin modelling in the North Alpine Foreland Basin, but should be improved with more detailed analysis of lateral drainage systems and facies variations in the future. The results of the study are of relevance to future well planning and drilling as well as to geomechanical modelling of subsurface stresses and deep geothermal production in the North Alpine Foreland Basin.
Associations between the Quality of life in sarcopenia measured with the SarQoL® and nutritional status
Authors: Kim Yongtaek , Park Ki Soo , Yoo Jun-Il
Published: July 2020

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between nutritional status and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) after adjusting for covariates of muscle mass, calf circumference, grip strength, and the timed up and go (TUG) test for diagnosis of sarcopenia.Methods: A total of 324 elderly people living in rural villages who were able to move to senior and welfare centers was surveyed. To determine the nutritional status of the elderly subjects, a questionnaire-based screening tool called DETERMINE was used. Developed as a health-related quality of life tool for sarcopenia, the Sarcopenia-specific Quality of Life (SarQoL) questionnaire was used. For screening of sarcopenia, a rapid questionnaire based on self-reported information about falls, mobility, and strength known as the SARC-F questionnaire was used. Assessment of sarcopenia included skeletal muscle mass, calf circumference, grip strength, and the timed up and go (TUG) test. Results: As a result of evaluating the relationship between SarQoL and nutritional risk in elderly subjects, the relationship between total SarQoL score and nutritional status was statistically significant in the moderate-risk group (B = -5.542, p = 0.001) and in the high-risk group (B= - 8.136, p < 0.001) in comparison to the low-risk group. Significant correlations were found in all seven domains of SarQoL, except the fear domain. The domain of ​​leisure activity was not related to variables assessing sarcopenia, but only to nutritional risk assessment (moderate-risk group (B = -8.662, p = 0.004) and high-risk group (B = -14.943, p < 0.001)). Conclusions: We confirmed an association between quality of life dimensions surveyed by the SarQoL questionnaire and nutritional status. Appropriate interventions are needed following brief evaluation of sarcopenia and nutritional deficiency among elderly people in communities.
Brief motivational therapy versus enhanced usual care for alcohol use disorders in primary care in Chile: study protocol for an exploratory randomised trial
Authors: Barticevic Nicolas , Poblete Fernando , Zuzulich Soledad , Rodriguez Victoria , Bradshaw Laura
Published: July 2020

Background : Harmful alcohol use is a leading cause of global disability and death. However increased detection and brief intervention capacity of more severe alcohol use disorders has not been accompanied by increased availability of treatment services. Incorporating treatment for such disorders into primary care is of paramount importance for improving access and health outcomes. This study aims to estimate the effectiveness of a Brief Motivational Treatment (BMT) applied in primary care for treatment of these disorders.
Methods : A parallel-group, single-blinded, severity-stratified, randomised clinical trial will test the superiority of BMT over enhanced usual care. Eligible participants will be those seeking treatment and who fulfil DSM-V criteria for alcohol use disorder and criteria for harmful alcohol use. With an estimated a loss to follow-up of 20%, a total of 182 participants will be recruited and equally randomised to each treatment group. The intervention group will receive an adaptation of the Motivational Enhancement Therapy, as manualized in Project MATCH. This treatment consists of four 45-minute sessions provided by a general psychologist with at least three years of primary care experience. The primary outcome is the change from baseline in the Drinks per Drinking Day during the last 90 days, which will be captured using the TimeLine Follow Back method. Secondary outcomes will describe the changes in alcohol use pattern, motivational status, and severity of the disorder.
All participants will be analysed according to the group they were allocated, regardless of the treatment actually received. Mean Differences (MD) will be computed for continuous outcomes and Relative Risks (RR) and RR reductions (RRR) for dichotomous results. Linear models will deliver the subgroup analyses. Missingness is assumed to be associated with the baseline alcohol use pattern and severity, so a multiple imputation method will be used to handle missing data.
Discussion : This trial aims to test the superiority of BMT over enhanced usual care with a reasonable superiority margin, over which the BMT could be further considered for incorporation into PC in Chile. Its pragmatic approach ultimately aims to inform policymakers about the benefit of including a brief psychosocial treatment into PC.
Trial registration : ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04345302, Registered 28 April 2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT04345302