Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of the Distribution of a Liquid Sprayed Into a Fluidized Bed

In the fluid coking process, bitumen and steam are sprayed into a fluidized bed of coke particles. The liquid reacts on the surface of the hot particles to give distillate products, light gases and coke. A good primary particle/liquid mixing in the spray jet is required in order to achieve high yields of valuable products and minimize operability problems due to particles agglomeration or loss of bed fluidity.An Enhanced Solids Entrainment (ESE) device has been proposed to improve the mixing of droplets and particles during injection. It consists of a cylindrical tube mounted co-axially downstream of the spray nozzle. The objective of this study is to develop an effective and convenient non-invasive technique to quantify the improvements in liquid distribution on the particles that results from the use of ESE device.A slug of 30 vol% ethanol in water solution is sprayed into a fluidized bed of sand. The bed is defluidized shortly after the start of the ethanol water injection. Then, the gas-solid contacting pattern is changed to fixed bed, with downward airflow. The evaporation rate can be obtained from the measured concentration of ethanol in the gaseous effluent. The evaporation rate depends on the wetted area that is exposed to the gas. Good primary dispersion of the liquid on particles yields a large exposed wetted area and, hence, a high evaporation rate. A model is used to estimate the distribution of liquid on the particles from the measured evaporation rate.The experimental results show that the ESE device produces a more uniform primary liquid distribution on the particles, increasing by 7 to 21 % the mass of solids contacted by the injected liquid.
Unlike its Paralog LEDGF/p75, HRP-2 Is Dispensable for MLL-R Leukemogenesis but Important for Leukemic Cell Survival

HDGF-related protein 2 (HRP-2) is a member of the Hepatoma-Derived Growth Factor-related protein family that harbors the structured PWWP and Integrase Binding Domain, known to associate with methylated histone tails or cellular and viral proteins, respectively. Interestingly, HRP-2 is a paralog of Lens Epithelium Derived Growth Factor p75 (LEDGF/p75), which is essential for MLL-rearranged (MLL-r) leukemia but dispensable for hematopoiesis. Sequel to these findings, we investigated the role of HRP-2 in hematopoiesis and MLL-r leukemia. Protein interactions were investigated by co-immunoprecipitation and validated using recombinant proteins in NMR. A systemic knockout mouse model was used to study normal hematopoiesis and MLL-ENL transformation upon the different HRP-2 genotypes. The role of HRP-2 in MLL-r and other leukemic, human cell lines was evaluated by lentiviral-mediated miRNA targeting HRP-2. We demonstrate that MLL and HRP-2 interact through a conserved interface, although this interaction proved less dependent on menin than the MLL-LEDGF/p75 interaction. The systemic HRP-2 knockout mice only revealed an increase in neutrophils in the peripheral blood, whereas the depletion of HRP-2 in leukemic cell lines and transformed primary murine cells resulted in reduced colony formation independently of MLL-rearrangements. In contrast, primary murine HRP-2 knockout cells were efficiently transformed by the MLL-ENL fusion, indicating that HRP-2, unlike LEDGF/p75, is dispensable for the transformation of MLL-ENL leukemogenesis but important for leukemic cell survival.
COVID-19 Stress and Mental Health of Students in Locked-Down Colleges

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of students in locked-down colleges remains obscure. This study aimed to explore influencing factors for the psychological impact of COVID-19 on Wuhan college students, post-traumatic stress symptoms in particular, so as to inform evidence-based strategy development to ameliorate such adverse impacts. An online survey was conducted from 26 to 29 April 2020, and 4355 students enrolled in Wuhan universities and colleges participated. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder via the Impact of Event-Scale-Revised was assessed. COVID-19 disproportionately affected older male Master’s and doctoral students living in Wuhan. The overall prevalence of PTSD was 16.3%. The three-level socio-interpersonal model of PTSD was empirically validated, and college students faced individual level risks such as infection with COVID-19, close relationship level risks such as family support (infection suspicion of family members, the loss of loved ones, and the family income decrease) and online course difficulties (little interaction, disturbing learning environment, and difficulty in adaption), and distant level risks such as excessive collection of personal information, estrangement of family relatives, and harassment and insult from strangers. The findings suggest the severity of the psychological impact of COVID-19. Mental health services reducing PTSD should be provided. Students who have lost loved ones and suffered family financial loss should be given particular care.
Phylogenomics of the Maverick Virus-Like Mobile Genetic Elements of Vertebrates

Abstract Mavericks are virus-like mobile genetic elements found in the genomes of eukaryotes. Although Mavericks encode capsid morphogenesis homologs, their viral particles have not been observed. Here, we provide new evidence supporting the viral nature of Mavericks and the potential existence of virions. To this end, we conducted a phylogenomic analysis of Mavericks in hundreds of vertebrate genomes, discovering 134 elements with an intact coding capacity in 17 host species. We reveal an extensive genomic fossil record in 143 species and date three groups of elements to the Late Cretaceous. Bayesian phylogenetic analysis using genomic fossil orthologs suggests that Mavericks have infected osteichthyans for ∼419 My. They have undergone frequent cross-species transmissions in cyprinid fish and all core genes are subject to strong purifying selection. We conclude that vertebrate Mavericks form an ancient lineage of aquatic dsDNA viruses which are probably still functional in some vertebrate lineages.
Efficacy of Three Commercial Disinfectants in Reducing Microbial Surfaces’ Contaminations of Pharmaceuticals Hospital Facilities

To evaluate and validate the efficacy of disinfectants used in our cleaning procedure, in order to reduce pharmaceutical hospital surfaces’ contaminations, we tested the action of three commercial disinfectants on small representative samples of the surfaces present in our hospital cleanrooms. These samples (or coupons) were contaminated with selected microorganisms for the validation of the disinfectants. The coupons were sampled before and after disinfection and the microbial load was assessed to calculate the Log10 reduction index. Subsequently, we developed and validated a disinfection procedure on real surfaces inside the cleanrooms intentionally contaminated with microorganisms, using approximately 107–108 total colony forming units per coupon. Our results showed a bactericidal, fungicidal, and sporicidal efficacy coherent to the acceptance criteria suggested by United States Pharmacopeia 35 <1072>. The correct implementation of our cleaning and disinfection procedure, respecting stipulated concentrations and contact times, led to a reduction of at least 6 Log10 for all microorganisms used. The proposed disinfection procedure reduced the pharmaceutical hospital surfaces’ contaminations, limited the propagation of microorganisms in points adjacent to the disinfected area, and ensured high disinfection and safety levels for operators, patients, and treated surfaces.
PAK1 Positively Regulates Oligodendrocyte Morphology and Myelination

The actin cytoskeleton is crucial for oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination. Here we show that p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1), a well-known actin regulator, promotes oligodendrocyte morphologic change and myelin production in the CNS. A combination of in vitro and in vivo models demonstrated that PAK1 is expressed throughout the oligodendrocyte lineage with highest expression in differentiated oligodendrocytes. Inhibiting PAK1 early in oligodendrocyte development decreased oligodendrocyte morphologic complexity and altered F-actin spreading at the tips of oligodendrocyte progenitor cell processes. Constitutively activating AKT in oligodendrocytes in male and female mice, which leads to excessive myelin wrapping, increased PAK1 expression, suggesting an impact of PAK1 during active myelin wrapping. Furthermore, constitutively activating PAK1 in oligodendrocytes in zebrafish led to an increase in myelin internode length while inhibiting PAK1 during active myelination decreased internode length. As myelin parameters influence conduction velocity, these data suggest that PAK1 may influence communication within the CNS. These data support a model in which PAK1 is a positive regulator of CNS myelination. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Myelin is a critical component of the CNS that provides metabolic support to neurons and also facilitates communication between cells in the CNS. Recent data demonstrate that actin dynamics drives myelin wrapping, but how actin is regulated during myelin wrapping is unknown. The authors investigate the role of the cytoskeletal modulator PAK1 during differentiation and myelination by oligodendrocytes, the myelinating cells of the CNS. They demonstrate that PAK1 promotes oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination by modulating the cytoskeleton and thereby internode length, thus playing a critical role in the function of the CNS.
Prevalence estimates of dementia in older adults in rural Kilimanjaro 2009–2010 and 2018–2019: is there evidence of changing prevalence?

Although limited, existing epidemiological data on dementia in sub‐Saharan Africa indicate that prevalence may be increasing; contrasting with recent decreases observed in high‐income countries. We have previously reported the age‐adjusted prevalence of dementia in rural Tanzania in 2009–2010 as 6.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 4.9–7.9) in individuals aged ≥70 years. We aimed to repeat a community‐based dementia prevalence study in the same setting to assess whether prevalence has changed.
New Virtual Porous Carbons Based on Carbon EDIP Potential and Monte Carlo Simulations

Using simple Metropolis Monte Carlo simulations, the series of virtual porous carbons (VPCs) is generated. During the computations, the carbon EDIP potential is employed. Structures in the series have systematically changing porosity due to the differences in the carbon density. The obtained VPCs are similar to the model proposed by Harris et al., but they do not show its main drawback, because they contain curved fullerene-like sheets, which are interconnected and form one three-dimensional structure. The porosity of VPCs is characterised using a simple geometrical method proposed by Bhattacharya and Gubbins. In order to confirm the reality of the obtained new model carbons and their usefulness for modelling of adsorption phenomena, Monte Carlo simulations of argon adsorption on them are performed. The obtained isotherms are analysed using standard adsorption methods like αs-plots, adsorption potential distributions curves and Dubinin-Astakhov model. The results reveal a close relationship between the systematic changes in the porosity and the adsorption properties. The observed regularities correspond with experimental observations and theoretical studies.
The effect of maternal position on venous return for pregnant women during MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in pregnancy is commonly undertaken in the left lateral tilt (LLT) position to prevent inferior vena cava (IVC) compression and supine hypotensive events, although this may be suboptimal for image quality. The supine position may also have an adverse effect on fetal well‐being. The spinal venous plexus may provide an alternative pathway for venous return in the presence of IVC compression. This study assesses morphology and blood flow of the IVC and spinal venous plexus for pregnant women in LLT and supine positions to ascertain the effect of maternal position on venous return during MRI. Eighty‐two pregnant women underwent phase contrast MRI (PC‐MRI) of the IVC and spinal venous plexus in the supine position; 25 were also imaged in the LLT position. Differences in life monitoring, IVC, spinal venous plexus and total venous return between the two positions were assessed. A linear regression assessed the relationship between flow in the IVC and the spinal venous plexus in the supine position. Increasing gestational age and the right‐sided position of the uterus on IVC and spinal venous plexus venous return were also evaluated. Hypotension symptoms were similar in supine (10%) and LLT (8%) positioning. Supine positioning decreased IVC height (p < 0.004) and flow (p = 0.045) but flow in the spinal venous plexus increased (p < 0.001) compared with the LLT position. Total venous return showed no difference (p = 0.989) between the two positions. Additional measurements of flow in the aorta also showed no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.866). Reduced IVC flow in the supine position was associated with increasing gestational age (p = 0.004) and degree of right‐sided uterine position (p = 0.004). Women in the left lateral decubitus position who then rotated supine had greater flow in the IVC (p = 0.008) and spinal venous plexus (p = 0.029) than those who started supine. For the majority of women, the spinal venous plexus acts as a complementary venous return system for pregnant women in the supine position, maintaining vascular homeostasis. Further study is needed to assess the effects on the health of the fetus.
Mucoadhesive Poloxamer-Based Hydrogels for the Release of HP-β-CD-Complexed Dexamethasone in the Treatment of Buccal Diseases

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is an ongoing and chronic inflammatory disease affecting the mucous membrane of the oral cavity. Currently, the treatment of choice consists in the direct application into the buccal cavity of semisolid formulations containing a corticosteroid molecule to decrease inflammatory signs and symptoms. However, this administration route has shown various disadvantages limiting its clinical use and efficacy. Indeed, the frequency of application and the incorrect use of the preparation may lead to a poor efficacy and limit the treatment compliance. Furthermore, the saliva clearance and the mechanical stress present in the buccal cavity also involve a decrease in the mucosal exposure to the drug. In this context, the design of a new pharmaceutical formulation, containing a steroidal anti-inflammatory, mucoadhesive, sprayable and exhibiting a sustained and controlled release seems to be suitable to overcome the main limitations of the existing pharmaceutical dosage forms. The present work reports the formulation, optimization and evaluation of the mucoadhesive and release properties of a poloxamer 407 thermosensitive hydrogel containing a poorly water-soluble corticosteroid, dexamethasone acetate (DMA), threaded into hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) molecules. Firstly, physicochemical properties were assessed to ensure suitable complexation of DMA into HP-β-CD cavities. Then, rheological properties, in the presence and absence of various mucoadhesive agents, were determined and optimized. The hydration ratio (0.218–0.191), the poloxamer 407 (15–17 wt%) percentage and liquid-cyclodextrin state were optimized as a function of the gelation transition temperature, viscoelastic behavior and dynamic flow viscosity. Deformation and resistance properties were evaluated in the presence of various mucoadhesive compounds, being the sodium alginate and xanthan gum the most suitable to improve adhesion and mucoadhesion properties. Xanthan gum was shown as the best agent prolonging the hydrogel retention time up to 45 min. Furthermore, xanthan gum has been found as a relevant polymer matrix controlling drug release by diffusion and swelling processes in order to achieve therapeutic concentration for prolonged periods of time.
Intrathecal catheter use after accidental dural puncture in obstetric patients: literature review and clinical management recommendations

If an accidental dural puncture occurs, one option is to insert a catheter and use it as an intrathecal catheter. This avoids the need for a further injection and can rapidly provide labour analgesia and anaesthesia for caesarean section. However, there are no recommendations for managing intrathecal catheters and, therefore, significant variation in clinical practice exists. Mismanagement of the intrathecal catheter can lead to increased motor block, high spinal anaesthesia, drug error, hypotension and fetal bradycardia. Care must be taken with an intrathecal catheter to adhere to strict aseptic technique, meticulous labelling, cautious administration of medications and good communication with the patient and other staff. Every institution considering the use of intrathecal catheters should establish a protocol. For labour analgesia, we recommend the use of dilute local anaesthetic agents and opioids. For caesarean section anaesthesia, gradual titration to the level of the fourth thoracic dermatome, with full monitoring, in a facility equipped to manage complications, should be performed using local anaesthetics combined with lipophilic opioids and morphine or diamorphine. Although evidence of the presence and duration of intrathecal catheters on the development of post‐dural puncture headache and need for epidural blood patch is limited, we suggest considering leaving the intrathecal catheter in for 24 hours to reduce the chance of developing a post‐dural puncture headache while maintaining precautions to avoid drug error and cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Injection of sterile normal saline into the intrathecal catheter may reduce post‐dural puncture headache. The level of evidence for these recommendations was low.
Identification of Potential Risk Genes and the Immune Landscape of Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension via Microarray Gene Expression Dataset Reanalysis

Gene dysfunction and immune cell infiltration play an essential role in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH). We aimed to investigate the immune landscape and novel differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of IPAH. In addition, potential druggable molecular targets for IPAH were also explored. In this study, the GSE117261 dataset was reanalyzed to explore the immune landscape and hub DEGs of IPAH. Lasso Cox regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were performed to detect the predictive value of IPAH. Additionally, the underlying drug targets for IPAH treatment were determined by drug–gene analysis. IPAH was significantly associated with the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway and Wnt signaling pathway as well as energetic metabolism dysfunction. We identified 31 upregulated and 39 downregulated DEGs in IPAH patients. Six hub genes, namely, SAA1, CCL5, CXCR1, CXCR2, CCR1, and ADORA3, were related to IPAH pathogenesis regardless of sex differences. Prediction model analysis showed that the area under the curve values of the hub DEGs except CXCR2 were all above 0.9 for distinguishing IPAH patients. In addition, the relative proportions of 5 subtypes of immune cells, namely, CD8+ T cells, CD4+ memory resting T cells, γ delta T cells, M1 macrophages, and resting mast cells, were significantly upregulated in the IPAH samples, while 6 subtypes of immune cells, namely, CD4+ naive T cells, resting NK cells, monocytes, M0 macrophages, activated mast cells, and neutrophils, were downregulated. Additionally, a total of 17 intersecting drugs targeting 5 genes, CCL5, CXCR1, CXCR2, CCR1, and ADORA3, were generated as potential druggable molecular targets for IPAH. Our study revealed the underlying correlations between genes and immune cells in IPAH and demonstrated for the first time that SAA1, CCL5, CXCR1, CCR1, and ADORA3 may be novel genetic targets for IPAH.
Effects of electrostatic interactions on gas adsorption and permeability of MOF membranes

We examined the effects of electrostatic interactions on gas adsorption and permeability of metal organic framework (MOF) membranes and MOF-filled mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) for CO2/CH4, CO2/N2 and H2/CO2 separations using molecular simulations. Adsorption isotherms and diffusion rates of CO2, CH4, N2 and H2 in several MOFs were computed using grand canonical Monte Carlo and equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations, respectively. Gas permeability and selectivity of pure MOF membranes and MOF-filled MMMs were then evaluated using theoretical permeation models. The accuracy of our molecular simulations was validated by comparing theoretical predictions for gas permeability and selectivity of MOF-filled MMMs with the available experimental data. We then used the same modelling approach to predict the performance of new MOF-filled MMMs in CO2/CH4, CO2/N2 and H2/CO2 separations. Promising MOF/polymer combinations which offer high selectivity and permeability relative to pure polymer membranes were identified. Our results showed that including electrostatic interactions between adsorbate molecules and MOF atoms is crucial for modelling pure MOF membranes but has less significance for modelling MOF-filled MMMs whenever the MOF volume fraction, ≤ 0.30. This result suggests that preliminary screening studies of MOF-filled MMMs can be carried out without assigning partial charges to MOF atoms.
Why is colorectal cancer increasing in younger age groups in the United States?

ABSTRACT Introduction: While colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality have decreased for older adults, the rates are increasing in adults younger than 50 years of age in the United States as well as globally. In response to strong epidemiologic evidence as well as sophisticated models, the American Cancer Society (ACS) has recommended screening adults for CRC starting at age 45. Understanding the factors associated with the rise of incidence in adults younger than age 50 may help to identify those adults who may be at greatest risk. Areas covered: In this review, we provide an overview of the recent literature and discuss possible explanations for the increase in CRC in young adults including obesity and other recognized CRC risk factors, delay in diagnosis of symptomatic patients (<50 years of age), and review perspectives on the current and future status of the field. Expert opinion: Currently there are little data regarding risk factors for CRC in average risk young adults who are asymptomatic. With potential endorsement of screening at 45 years of age by US Preventive Services Task Force, more data regarding clinical and molecular risk factors associated with CRC in young adults will be available.