bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mapping choline metabolites in normal and transformed cells
Authors: Roci Irena , Watrous Jeramie D. , Lagerborg Kim A. , Jain Mohit , Nilsson Roland 
Published: November 2020

AbstractIntroductionCholine is an essential human nutrient that is particular important for proliferating cells, and altered choline metabolism has been associated with cancer transformation. Yet, the various metabolic fates of choline in proliferating cells have not been investigated systematically.ObjectivesThis study aims to map the metabolic products of choline in normal and cancerous proliferating cells.MethodsWe performed13C-choline tracing followed by liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) analysis of metabolic products in normal and in vitro-transformed (tumor-forming) epithelial cells, and also in tumor-derived cancer cell lines. Selected metabolites were quantified by internal standards.ResultsUntargeted analysis revealed 121 LCMS peaks that were13C-labeled from choline, including various phospholipid species, but also previously unknown products such as monomethyl- and dimethyl-ethanolamines. Interestingly, we observed formation of betaine from choline specifically in tumor-derived cells. Expression of choline dehydrogenase (CHDH), which catalyzes the first step of betaine synthesis, correlated with betaine synthesis across the cell lines studied. RNAi silencing of CHDH did not affect cell proliferation, although we observed an increased fraction of G2M phase cells with some RNAi sequences, suggesting that CHDH and its product betaine may play a role in cell cycle progression. Betaine cell concentration was around 10 µM, arguing against an osmotic function, and was not used as a methyl donor. The function of betaine in these tumor-derived cells is presently unknown.ConclusionThis study identifies novel metabolites of choline in cancer and normal cell lines, and reveals altered choline metabolism in cancer cells.
Investigating the effect of matrix acidizing injection pressure on carbonate-rich Marcellus shale core samples: an experimental study
Authors: Khalil Rayan , Emadi Hossein , Altawati Faisal 
Published: November 2020

AbstractNear-wellbore damage, which significantly reduces hydrocarbon production, can happen during drilling, cementing, perforation, completion, and stimulation operations. The most common technique to remove or bypass this damage is matrix acidizing. The effects of matrix acidizing injection pressure on acid penetration rate, chemical reaction rate, solubility, porosity, and permeability of Marcellus core samples were investigated in this experimental study. To achieve a successful acid treatment, acid type and concentration must be carefully selected. The results of the X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and the solubility test revealed that 15 wt.% hydrochloric acid (HCl) is the optimum acid. Matrix acidizing treatments were implemented on nine core samples, taken from Marcellus (shale gas reservoir), at the reservoir temperature (66 °C), confining pressure of 10.35 MPa, and three different acid injection pressures (1.72, 3.45, and 5.17 MPa). The results showed that performing acid treatments on the samples containing continuous carbonate layers created highly permeable channels (wormholes) resulting in significant improvement, up to 3900%, in the permeability of the samples. Additionally, the results of the acid penetration rate, chemical reaction rate, solubility, porosity, and permeability revealed that increasing the acid injection pressure resulted in increases in the aforementioned properties of the samples. The results also revealed that any increase in the injection pressure above 3.45 MPa did not demonstrate any significant enhancements in the properties of the samples. The results of the XRD analysis revealed that matrix-acidizing treatments dissolved 23.2% of calcite and 0.4% of dolomite existed in the samples.
Significant production improvement using optimization of completion and artificial lift: case studies from South-West Iran
Authors: Ashena Rahman , Bataee Mahmood , Jafarpour Hamed , Abbasi Hamid , Zolotukhin Anatoly , Mirhashemi Mohammad 
Published: November 2020

AbstractProductivity of wells in South-West Iran has decreased due to completion and production problems in recent decades. This is a large risk against sustainable production from the fields. To allow stable production, an important measure is completion and production optimization including artificial lift methods. This was investigated using simulations validated by pilot field tests. Several case studies were considered in terms of their completion and production. Five scenarios were investigated: natural production through annulus and tubing (scenario-1 and 2), artificial gas lift production through annulus (scenario-3), through tubing using non-standard gas lift (scenario-4) and using standard gas lift (scenario-5). Scenario-1 is currently the case in most wells of the field. To find the optimal scenario and completion/production parameters, simulations of 11 wells of an oilfield in the region were carried out using nodal and sensitivity analysis. The optimized parameters include wellhead pressures (WHPs), tubing dimensions, maximum tolerable water cuts and gas oil ratios and artificial gas injection rate. Simulation results were validated by pilot field tests. In addition, appropriately selected wellhead and Christmas trees for all scenarios were depicted. Simulations confirmed by field pilot tests showed that optimization of completion and production mode and parameters can contribute largely to production improvement. The results showed that the current scenario-1 is the worst of all. However, production through tubing (scenario-2) is optimal for wells which can produce with natural reservoir pressure, with an increase of 800 STB/Day rate per well compared with scenario-1. However, for wells requiring artificial gas lift, the average production rate increase (per well) from the annulus to tubing production was 1185 STB/Day. Next, using the standard gas lift (scenario-5) was found to be the optimal mode of gas lifting and is strongly recommended. WHPs in scenario-5 were the greatest of all, whereas scenario-1 gave the lowest WHPs. The optimal tubing diameter and length were determined. The greatest maximum tolerable water cut was obtained using scenario-5, whereas the lowest was with scenario-1. The maximum tolerable GOR was around 1900 scf/STB. Changing of scenarios did not have significant effect on maximum tolerable GOR. The optimal artificial gas injection rates were found. This validated simulation work proved that completion and production optimization of mode and parameters had considerable contribution to production improvement in South-West Iran. This sequential comprehensive work can be applied in any other field or region.
Characterizing El Niño-Southern Oscillation Effects on the Blue Nile Yield and the Nile River Basin Precipitation using Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Le Justin A. , El-Askary Hesham M. , Allali Mohamed , Sayed Eman , Sweliem Hani , Piechota Thomas C. , Struppa Daniele C. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractUsing new mathematical and data-driven techniques, we propose new indices to measure and predict the strength of different El Niño events and how they affect regions like the Nile River Basin (NRB). Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD), when applied to Southern Oscillation Index (SOI), yields three Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMF) tracking recognizable and physically significant non-stationary processes. The aim is to characterize underlying signals driving ENSO as reflected in SOI, and show that those signals also meaningfully affect other physical processes with scientific and predictive utility. In the end, signals are identified which have a strong statistical relationship with various physical factors driving ENSO variation. IMF 6 is argued to track El Niño and La Niña events occurrence, while IMFs 7 and 8 represent another signal, which reflects on variations in El Niño strength and variability between events. These we represent an underlying inter-annual variation between different El Niño events. Due to the importance of the latter, IMFs 7 and 8, are defined as Interannual ENSO Variability Indices (IEVI) and referred to as IEVI α and IEVI β. EMD when applied to the NRB precipitation, affecting the Blue Nile yield, identifying the IEVI-driven IMFs, with high correlations of up to ρ = 0.864, suggesting a decadal variability within NRB that is principally driven by interannual decadal-scale variability highlighting known geographical relationships. Significant hydrological processes, driving the Blue Nile yield, are accurately identified using the IEVI as a predictor. The IEVI-based model performed significantly atp = 0.038 with Blue Nile yield observations.
QSAR, Ligand Based Design and Pharmacokinetic Studies of Parviflorons Derivatives as Anti-Breast Cancer Drug Compounds Against MCF-7 Cell Line
Authors: Abdulrahman Hadiza Lawal , Uzairu Adamu , Uba Sani 
Published: November 2020

AbstractThe anti-proliferative activities of Novel series of Parviflorons against MCF-7 breast cancer cell line was explored via in-silico studies like Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship QSAR, designing new compounds and analyzing the pharmacokinetics properties of the designed compounds. From QSAR, model one emerged the best from the statistical assessments of (R2) = 0.9444, (R2adj) = 0.9273, (Q2) = 0.8945 and (R2pred) of 0.6214. The model was used in designing new derivative compounds, with higher effectiveness against estrogen positive breast cancer (MCF-7). The pharmacokinetics analysis carried out on the newly designed compounds showed that all the compounds passed the drug-likeness test and also the Lipinski rule of five, and they could further proceed to pre-clinical tests. The results indicates that the derivative compounds would serve as potent cure to estrogen positive breast cancer (MCF-7 cell line).
Effects of modifying the hypoeutectic AlMg5Si2Mn alloy via addition of Al10Sr and/or Al5TiB
Authors: Snopiński P. , Król M. , Wróbel T. , Matus K. , Woźniak A. , Tański T. , Palček P. 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
This work demonstrates that the combined addition of Al10Sr and Al5TiB master alloys to the AlMg5Si2Mn effectively refines the grain microstructure and partially modifies the eutectic Mg2Si phase. Thorough spectroscopic characterization reveals that the grain refinement effect is due to Al3Ti particles acting as nucleation sites for α-Al grains, and the increased nucleation temperature of α-Al is due to Al10Sr addition. It is also determined that TiB2 particles can act as nucleation substrates for the primary Mg2Si phase. The prepared alloy sample with the finest microstructure (treated with both Al10Sr and Al5TiB) exhibits the greatest corrosion resistance among all tested samples.
Completed secondary education among youth with prenatal substance exposure: A longitudinal register‐based matched cohort study
Authors: Nissinen Niina‐Maria , Gissler Mika , Sarkola Taisto , Kahila Hanna , Autti‐Rämö Ilona , Koponen Anne M. 
Published: November 2020

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe dual impact of prenatal substance exposure (i.e. alcohol/drugs) and adverse postnatal caregiving environment on offspring secondary education completion is an understudied research area. The aim was to investigate the influence of childhood adversities, out‐of‐home care, and offspring's mental and/or behavioural disorders on secondary education completion among prenatally exposed offspring in comparison to matched unexposed offspring.MethodsThis is a longitudinal register‐based matched cohort study in Finland including offspring with a history of prenatal substance exposure and a matched unexposed cohort. The study sample included 283 exposed and 820 unexposed offspring aged 18–23 years.ResultsThe results showed a time lag in secondary education completion and lower educational attainment overall among exposed compared with unexposed (37.8% vs. 51.0%, respectively). The results from the multivariate logistic regression models showed that the differences in the secondary education completion between exposed and unexposed were diminished in the presence of covariates. A cumulative childhood adversity score and out‐of‐home care were not associated with secondary education completion in the multivariate models, whereas the different domains of offspring's mental and/or behavioural disorders including psychiatric disorders (AOR 0.65, 95% CI 0.45–0.96), neuropsychological disorders (AOR 0.35, 95% CI 0.23–0.54) and dual psychiatric and neuropsychological disorder (AOR 0.29, 95% CI 0.18–0.48) showed an independent negative effect on secondary education completion.ConclusionsInferior educational outcomes may not be directly linked with prenatal substance exposure but may rather reflect the extent of evolving offspring's mental and/or behavioural disorders over time influenced by childhood adversities.
Biomechanical Comparison of a Notched Head Locking T-Plate and a Straight Locking Compression Plate in a Juxta-Articular Fracture Model
Authors: Bird Guy , Glyde Mark , Hosgood Giselle , Hayes Alex , Day Robert 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Objective This investigation compared the biomechanical properties of a 2.0 mm locking compression notched head T-plate (NHTP) and 2.0 mm straight locking compression plate (LCP), in a simple transverse juxta-articular fracture model.
Study Design Two different screw configurations were compared for the NHTP and LCP, modelling short (configuration 1) and long working length (configuration 2). Constructs were tested in compression, perpendicular and tension non-destructive four point bending and torsion. Plate surface strain was measured at 12 regions of interest (ROI) using three-dimensional digital image correlation. Stiffness and strain were compared between screw configurations within and between each plate.
Results The LCP was stiffer than the NHTP in all three planes of bending and torsion (p < 0.05). The NHTP had greater strain than the LCP during compression bending and torsion at all ROI (p < 0.0005). The short working length was stiffer in all three planes of bending and in torsion (p < 0.05) than the longer working length for both plates. The long working length showed greater strain than the short working length at most ROI.
Conclusion In this experimental model, a 2.0 mm LCP with two screws in the short fragment was significantly stiffer and had lower plate strain than a 2.0 mm NHTP with three screws in the short fragment. Extending the working length significantly reduced construct stiffness and increased plate strain. These findings may guide construct selection.
Proficiency of Laryngeal Mask Airway Insertion Skill in NRP Certified Providers
Authors: Mani Srinivasan , Rawat Munmun 
Published: November 2020

Objective In 2015, Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) recommended laryngeal mask airway (LMA) as an alternative to the endotracheal tube (ETT) in situations where the provider is “unable to intubate and unable to ventilate.” LMA insertion is being taught in the NRP routinely. However, endotracheal intubation is the primary method considered as the standard of care in neonatal resuscitation. LMA insertion is a relatively simple procedure with an average insertion time of < 10 seconds. Newer generation LMA can have the added advantage of reducing the risk of aerosol generation and improving the safety of the providers. Only a few recent studies have evaluated the LMA insertion skills of neonatal resuscitation providers. We wanted to study the proficiency of NRP providers in the technique of LMA insertion. We hypothesized that NRP providers would have LMA insertion skills equivalent to the standard of care (ETT insertion).
Study Design A manikin-based study was done from July 2019 to December 2019. We enrolled 31 NRP providers with 1 or more years since the first certification and current valid NRP provider/instructor status. The participants were instructed to insert an ETT and LMA in the manikin. The procedures were video recorded. The time taken to insert and start ventilation with each device, including the number of attempts for successful insertion, was noted. A Likert scale questionnaire was filled by each participant indicating the level of confidence, perception of ease, and the ability to provide effective positive pressure ventilation (PPV) with each of the procedures. The paired t-test, chi-square test, and Kruskal–Wallis' test were used for the statistical analysis.
Results Eight (25.8%) out of the 31 participants failed to insert any one of the devices. So, 23 providers were analyzed for the outcomes. We found that the mean duration taken to insert the ETT and LMA was not statistically different (32 vs. 36 seconds). LMA insertion had a higher failure rate compared with ETT. Providers did not perceive confidence to insert LMA when compared with ETT. They did not recognize LMA insertion as a more effortless procedure relative to endotracheal intubation. The providers felt that their ability to provide effective PPV using LMA was inferior to ETT.
Conclusion The NRP certified providers in this study did not demonstrate proficiency in the insertion of LMA equivalent to the endotracheal intubation.
Key Points
Analysis of the Columellar-Labial Angle in Perioral Aging
Authors: Felix Bravo Bruna , Bianco Stephanie , de Bastos Julien Totti , Luiz Lopes Fernando , Alcala Gelpi Berta , Gonçalves Bravo Leonardo 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
The young face presents a convex and rounded aspect; with aging, this changes to a more concave and flattened aspect, with the angles of the face undergoing changes through soft tissue repositioning and bone remodeling. The columellar-labial angle is one of the features that change.

Objectives
The objective of the present study was to analyze the columellar-labial angle at different stages of adult life and assess its contribution to facial changes during aging.

Methods
We analyzed a database (December 2017-March 2018) of 722 female patients, aged 21 to 88 years, and obtained anthropometric measurements of the columellar-labial angle with a Canfield Vectra 3D image analysis system. Our database originates from a private clinic where all patients were registered and photographed.

Results
Our analysis showed a decrease in the columellar-labial angle, mainly observed from patients aged 60 years and older. This decrease can be explained by the absorption of body structures that occurs during aging.

Conclusions
The columellar-labial angle decreases with age, and this finding may provide a better understanding of the transformation that occurs with aging. Obtaining a clearer view of the changes that occur in the face will improve treatments for facial rejuvenation, either conservative or surgical, and provide a basis for future studies and knowledge expansion.

Level of Evidence: 4
Cost-effectiveness analysis of thoracoscopic versus open esophagectomy for esophageal cancer: a population-based study
Authors: Chao Yin-Kai , Wen Yu-Wen 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
The question as to whether the clinical benefits of video-assisted thoracoscopic esophagectomy (VATE) do outweigh its increased costs remains unanswered. Here, we analyzed the cost-effectiveness of VATE versus open esophagectomy (OE) in a real-world setting. Using 2008–2015 Taiwanese Health Insurance claim data, we identified 3271 patients with esophageal cancer who underwent transthoracic esophagectomy. By taking into account nine confounding variables, we constructed a 1:1 propensity score-matched sample of patients who underwent VATE or OE (n = 629 each). Direct costs incurred within three years after surgery and survival were analyzed. There were no significant intergroup differences in terms of R0 resection rates, length of stay, as well as 30- and 90-day mortality and unplanned readmission rates. However, the number of dissected nodes was higher in the VATE group (median: 24 vs. 18, P &lt; 0.001). While VATE had higher index hospitalization costs (median, 12331 USD vs. 10730 USD, P &lt; 0.001), cost differences were reduced over time. The average accumulated cost person-month of VATE declined below that of OE at 14 months after hospital discharge. Overall survival (OS) figures were more favorable for patients treated with VATE (3-year OS: 47% vs. 41%; life expectancy: 4.04 life-years [LY] vs. 3.30 LY). The cost-effectiveness plane showed that only 0.3% of all VATE procedures were more costly and less effective than OE. The probabilities for VATE to be cost-effective at the willingness-to-pay (WTP) thresholds of 10000 and 50000 USD/LY were 63.5% and 92.4%, respectively. Using commonly accepted WTP thresholds, VATE was more cost-effective than OE for patients with esophageal cancer.
Cardiovascular Health and Mitochondrial Function: Testing an Association
Authors: Zampino Marta , Spencer Richard G , Fishbein Kenneth W , Simonsick Eleanor M , Ferrucci Luigi 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Background
Although mitochondrial dysfunction appears to be a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, empirical data on this association are still lacking. This study evaluated whether mitochondrial oxidative capacity, as assessed by phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy, was associated with cardiovascular risk, as estimated by the Framingham Risk Score (FRS), and with a clinical history of cardiovascular disease (CVD), in community-dwelling adults.

Method
A total of 616 subjects from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (mean age 66 years) underwent a comprehensive clinical evaluation. Mitochondrial oxidative capacity in skeletal muscle was assessed as post-exercise phosphocreatine recovery time constant by phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Multivariate regression models were employed to determine the cross-sectional association of mitochondrial oxidative capacity with FRS and history of CVD.

Results
Decreased mitochondrial oxidative capacity was strongly associated with higher FRS independent of age, body composition, and physical activity. Lower oxidative capacity was also associated with a history of positive of CVD and higher number of CVD events.

Conclusions
We speculate that the observed association could reflect the effect of an excessive production of oxidative species by dysfunctional mitochondria. Furthermore, decreased energy production could hamper the functionality of heart and vessels. In turn, a malfunctioning cardiovascular apparatus could fail to deliver the oxygen necessary for optimal mitochondrial energy production, therefore creating a vicious cycle. Longitudinal studies are necessary to ascertain the directionality of the association and the eventual presence of common pathogenetic roots. In conclusion, mitochondria could represent an important target for intervention in cardiovascular health.