bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adsorption of Methyl Chloride on Molecular Sieves, Silica Gels, and Activated Carbon
Authors: Lad Jai B. , Makkawi Yassir T.
Published: December 2019

Adsorption of methyl chloride (CH3Cl or MeCl) on five different types of adsorbents was investigated experimentally at increasing pressures and room temperature. Prior to adsorption, all adsorbents were analyzed to assess their physical and chemical characteristics. The experimental data was then used to determine the adsorption isotherms, heats of adsorption, adsorption rates, and their respective theoretical models. The MeCl adsorption capacity was found to reasonably correlate with the adsorbent's surface area. The MeCl adsorption isotherm and adsorption rates were fitted for the first time to a Freundlich isotherm model and pseudo first‐/second‐order kinetic models, respectively. The range of heat of adsorption indicated a physisorption type of bonding; hence, the investigated adsorbents can potentially be regenerated for cyclic adsorption.
Solvent‐Aided Crystallization for Biodiesel Purification
Authors: Samsuri Shafirah , Jian Ngiam Li , Jusoh Farah Wahida , Hernández Yáñez Eduard , Yahya Noor Yahida
Published: December 2019

The application of solvent‐aided crystallization (SAC) is based on the addition of a solvent, here 1‐butanol, to crude biodiesel to catalyze the purification process by separating biodiesel from contaminants via crystallization process. Response surface methodology was applied to optimize the process parameters of SAC, represented by biodiesel purity. The purified biodiesel was analyzed by means of gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry for the composition of the present fatty acid methyl ester (FAME). Under the predicted optimum process conditions within the experimental ranges for the highest biodiesel purity, the predicted biodiesel purity was 99.375 %.
Parameter Estimation for Incompressible Cake Filtration: Advantages of a Modified Fitting Method
Authors: Kuhn Michael , Pergam Philip , Briesen Heiko
Published: December 2019

There is a widely used linear strategy to determine the parameters specific cake resistance and filter medium resistance in incompressible cake filtration. In this article, it is intended to demonstrate that this strategy has some disadvantages and should be replaced by an alternative nonlinear approach which yields more exact results. Even though the gains in precision are small for most cases, the nonlinear strategy is favored because it involves no extra effort and is grounded in the same physical theory as the original approach. This claim is based on a broad simulation study using noisy data with known parameter values to compare both fitting strategies and judge their accuracies.
Carbon‐Free Nanocoral‐Structured Platinum Electrocatalyst for Enhanced Methanol Oxidation Reaction Activity with Superior Poison Tolerance
Authors: Barman Sharat Chandra , Zahed Md. Abu , Sharifuzzaman Md. , Kim Jiyoung , Xuan Xing , Nah Joong San , Park Sehkyu , Park Jae Yeong
Published: December 2019

Poisoning from carbonaceous species and poor mass activity of catalysts are two major challenges that should be overcome for the commercial applications of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC). In this work, superior poison‐tolerant, carbon‐free nanocoral‐structured platinum (ncs‐Pt) catalysts are successfully synthesized by using a micelle‐directed method. The morphology and pore size of ncs‐Pt are tailored by varying the compositional ratio of Pt in the precursor solutions and by changing the molecular ratios of different surfactant blocks. The physical properties of the ncs‐Pt catalyst are observed through field emission scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, whereas the electrochemical characteristics are analyzed through cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The developed ncs‐Pt (5 mM) catalyst exhibits a high density of porous structures, high index facets, lower d‐band center, and a highly negative onset potential (−0.59 V). Therefore, the developed ncs‐Pt catalyst offers enhanced mass activity 6.56 mA/μg and superior poison tolerance 5.62 for the methanol oxidation reaction.
Methanethiosulfonate Derivative of OX063 Trityl: A Promising and Efficient Reagent for Side‐Directed Spin Labeling of Proteins
Authors: Tormyshev Victor M. , Chubarov Alexey S. , Krumkacheva Olesya A. , Trukhin Dmitry V. , Rogozhnikova Olga Yu. , Spitsyna Anna S. , Kuzhelev Andrey A. , Koval Vladimir V. , Fedin Matvey V. , Godovikova Tatyana S. , Bowman Michael K. , Bagryanskaya Elena G.
Published: December 2019

Trityl radicals (TAMs) have recently appeared as an alternative source of spin labels for measuring long distances in biological systems. Finland trityl radical (FTAM) served as the basis for this new generation of spin labels, but FTAM is rather lipophilic and susceptible to self‐aggregation, noncovalent binding with lipophilic sites of proteins, and noncovalent docking at the termini of duplex DNA. In this paper the very hydrophilic OX063 TAM with very low toxicity and little tendency for aggregation is used as the basis for a spin label. Human serum albumin (HSA) labeled with OX063 has an intense narrow line typical of TAM radicals in solution, whereas HSA labeled with FTAM shows broad lines and extensive aggregation. In pulse EPR measurements, the measured phase memory time TM for HSA labeled with OX063 is 6.3 μs at 50 K, the longest yet obtained with a TAM‐based spin label. The lowered lipophilicity also decreases side products in the labeling reaction.
Programmed death ligand 1 expression in EBUS aspirates of non–small cell lung cancer: Is interpretation affected by type of fixation?
Authors: Gosney John R. , Haragan Alexander , Chadwick Claire , Giles Tom E. , Grundy Seamus , Tippett Victoria , Gumparthy Krishna P. , Wight Andrew , Tan Hock G.
Published: December 2019

Background

Much of the reluctance about using cytology specimens rather than histology specimens to assess programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression for guiding the use of immune modulating drugs in the management of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is based on the belief that the alcohol‐based fixatives favored by cytopathologists might reduce the antigenicity of PD‐L1 and lead to artifactually low expression levels and false‐negative reporting. Therefore, this study was performed to determine whether there is any difference in PD‐L1 expression between endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)–guided aspirates of NSCLC fixed in alcohol‐based fixatives and those fixed in neutral buffered formalin (NBF), the standard laboratory fixative for histology specimens.

Methods

The expression of PD‐L1 was compared in 50 paired EBUS aspirates of NSCLC taken from the same lymph node during the same procedure. One aspirate of each pair was fixed in an alcohol‐based fixative, and the other was fixed in NBF.

Results

In none of the 50 pairs was there any significant difference, qualitative or quantitative, in the strength, pattern, or extent of PD‐L1 expression. In the great majority, the expression was identical, regardless of fixation.

Conclusions

There is no evidence from this study showing that the use of alcohol‐based fixatives has any effect on the expression of PD‐L1 or its interpretation. Notwithstanding the general challenges in accurately assessing such expression in cytology specimens, pathologists should feel able to interpret them with confidence, and clinicians should feel able to rely on the results.
Theoretical Efficiency Limits of Photoelectrochemical CO2 Reduction: A Route‐Dependent Thermodynamic Analysis
Authors: Kalamaras Evangelos , Wang Huizhi , Mercedes Maroto‐Valer M. , Andresen John M. , Xuan Jin
Published: December 2019

Solar‐fuel formation via photoelectrochemical (PEC) routes using water and CO2 as feedstock has attracted much attention. Most PEC CO2 reduction studies have been focused on the development of novel photoactive materials; however, there is still a lack of understanding of the key limiting factors of this process. In this study, the theoretical limits of Solar‐to‐Fuel (STF) efficiencies of single‐ and dual‐junction photo‐absorbing materials are illustrated for single‐step multi‐electron CO2 reduction into fuels including HCOO−, CO, CH3OH and C2H5OH. It is also highlighted that STF efficiency depends on the route of two‐step PEC CO2 reduction process using CH3OH as a model fuel. Finally, it is illustrated the beneficial role of alternative strategies such as dual‐junction photo‐absorbing electrodes, externally applied bias and subsequent reactor chambers on the maximum theoretical efficiencies of PEC CO2 reduction.
Effective Singlet Oxygen Generation in Silica‐Coated CsPbBr3 Quantum Dots through Energy Transfer for Photocatalysis
Authors: Gu Kailun , Wang Yu , Shen Jianhua , Zhu Jingrun , Zhu Yihua , Li Chunzhong
Published: December 2019

Here, silica‐coated CsPbBr3 quantum dots (QDs) were demonstrated to be effective photosensitizers for the generation of singlet oxygen (1O2). The silica encapsulation improved the stability of the perovskite QDs while also preserving an excellent light‐harvesting capability in the visible‐light region. The appropriate exciton binding energy and dark exciton generation characteristics of perovskite QDs may be responsible for the energy transfer. The high oxidizability of 1O2 makes the material attractive for application in decomposition of organic dyes such as methyl orange. This work provides new insight for designing excellent perovskite‐based photocatalysts.
Phenothiazine‐Functionalized Poly(norbornene)s as High‐Rate Cathode Materials for Organic Batteries
Authors: Otteny Fabian , Studer Gauthier , Kolek Martin , Bieker Peter , Winter Martin , Esser Birgit
Published: December 2019

Organic cathode materials are handled as promising candidates for new energy‐storage solutions based on their transition‐metal‐free composition. Phenothiazine‐based polymers are attractive owing to their redox potential of 3.5 V vs. Li/Li+ and high cycling stabilities. Herein, three types of poly(norbornene)s were investigated, functionalized with phenothiazine units through either a direct connection or ester linkages, as well as their crosslinked derivatives. The directly linked poly(3‐norbornylphenothiazine)s demonstrated excellent rate capability and cycling stability with a capacity retention of 73 % after 10 000 cycles at a C‐rate of 100 C for the crosslinked polymer. The polymer network structure of the crosslinked poly(3‐norbornylphenothiazine) was beneficial for its rate performance.
A case of oncocytic lipoadenoma of the submandibular gland and its diagnostic cytology challenges
Authors: Murshed Khaled A. , Khalafalla Ammar , Alani Belal , Farghaly Hanan , Alkhalil Moustafa
Published: December 2019

Lipomatous tumors of the salivary gland in general are rare and oncocytic lipoadenomas are even much rarer. Most of the reported cases of oncocytic lipoadenoma were located in the parotid gland and to the best of our knowledge, only four cases reported to arise from the submandibular gland. The preoperative interpretation of the aspirates taken from these lesions can be difficult and challenging. We report a case of a 41 year old gentleman who presented with submandibular gland swelling. CT scan of the neck revealed an oval‐shape enhancing mass in the inferior aspect of the right submandibular gland measuring 19 × 12 mm. Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) showed hypocellular smears with few clusters of epithelial cells having oncocytic appearance. The cytologic findings were interpreted as “oncocytic lesion.” Submandibular gland excision was done. Histologically, a final diagnosis of oncocytic lipoadenoma was rendered. We present this rare entity to add to the few cases reported to date and to upsurge awareness during cytologic examination of oncocytic salivary gland lesions.
Psychosocial research in the diabetic foot: Are we making progress?
Authors: Vileikyte Loretta , Pouwer Frans , Gonzalez Jeffrey S
Published: December 2019

Background/Methods

This review summarizes recent advances regarding the role of psychological factors in people with a diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). It describes the detrimental effects of diabeticfoot complications and in particular, Charcot Neuroarthropathy (CN), on health status and quality of life (QoL) and emphasizes the importance of utilizing DFU‐specific assessment tools.

Results

Diabetic neuropathy (DN)‐related postural instability is key in generating depression in high DFU risk patients and in predicting offloading non‐adherence those with active DFUs. Patients' views of their own DFU risk are largely inconsistent with biomedical models, resulting in a lack of preventive foot self‐care. Furthermore, DFUs are a source of specific emotional responses, with fear of amputation predominant. While fear of amputation is associated with better preventive foot self‐care, it appears to be linked to DFU non‐healing, though mechanisms are yet to be elucidated. Until now, systemically released stress hormones were recognized as the only biological mechanism through which psychological stress influences healing. Recently, the skin has been found to be an extra‐adrenal site for glucocorticoid synthesis with local, tissue‐specific cortisol implicated in DFU non‐healing.

Conclusions

These observations could potentially lead to future targets for therapeutic and psychological interventions.
Snagfall the first decade after severe bark beetle infestation of high‐elevation forests in Colorado, USA
Authors: Rhoades Charles C. , Hubbard Robert M. , Hood Paul R. , Starr Banning J. , Tinker Daniel B. , Elder Kelly
Published: December 2019

The persistence and fall rate of snags (standing dead trees) generated during bark beetle outbreaks have consequences for the behavior, effects, and suppression of potential wildfires, hazard tree and timber salvage operations, wildlife habitat, and numerous ecosystem processes. However, post‐beetle snagfall dynamics are poorly understood in most forest types. We tagged standing live and dead lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta), subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa), and Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii), including beetle‐killed pine snags following the peak of a recent mountain pine bark beetle outbreak in watersheds at the Fraser Experimental Forest in northcentral Colorado and sampled snagfall 10 and 12 years later. Bark beetle attacks began in 2003, peaked by 2006, and killed 78% of overstory lodgepole pine in 133 plots distributed across a range of stand and site conditions. Of those snags, only 17% fell between 2007 and 2018. Most snags broke at ground level, due to butt rot, and were oriented downhill. In contrast, snags that tipped up or snapped off above the ground were oriented with the prevailing winds. Equal numbers of snags fell singly and in multiple‐tree groups, and equal numbers remained elevated rather than in contact with the ground. Lodgepole pine snagfall was 1.6‐times higher on steep slopes (>40%) where dead pine density was higher, compared to flatter sites. Based on our findings and previous research, we estimate that one‐half the beetle‐killed lodgepole pine in high‐elevation forests such as those at Fraser may fall within 15–20 yr of beetle infestation, but that some pine snags are likely to persist for decades longer. Post‐outbreak snagfall dynamics create a multiple‐decade legacy of bark beetle outbreaks that will persist longer in high‐elevation compared to lower‐elevation forests.
Dose distribution and up‐titration patterns of metformin monotherapy in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Iglay Kristy , Sawhney Baanie , Fu Alex Z. , Fernandes Gail , Crutchlow Michael F. , Rajpathak Swapnil , Khunti Kamlesh
Published: December 2019

Aims

To assess the dose distribution among users of metformin monotherapy as well as the patterns of up‐titration following initiation of therapy in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of adults with T2DM in the United Kingdom (UK). Metformin dose distribution was assessed at 0, 6 and 12 months in people initiating metformin monotherapy (new users) and cross‐sectionally in people with ongoing metformin monotherapy (prevalent users). Patterns and predictors of up‐titration were also analysed in new users. Dose distributions and treatment patterns were assessed descriptively; predictors of up‐titration were determined using multivariable logistic regressions.

Results

Totals of 6174 new users and 8733 prevalent users were included. New users initiated metformin at >0 mg to ≤500 mg (25%), >500 mg to ≤1000 mg (47%), >1000 mg to ≤1500 mg (17%) or >1500 mg to ≤2000 mg (12%) daily. This distribution did not vary over time. Prevalent users of metformin received doses of >0 mg to ≤500 mg (14%), >500 mg to ≤1000 mg (40%), >1000 mg to ≤1500 mg (15%), >1500 mg to ≤2000 mg (29%) or >2000 mg (1%) daily. Among new users of metformin, 6.7% and 10.8% had been up‐titrated at 6 and 12 months, respectively, despite the majority having glycated haemoglobin >53 mmol/mol. Predictors of up‐titration included younger age and higher HbA1c.

Conclusions

A majority of T2DM patients taking metformin received a dose ≤1000 mg/day. Up‐titration of metformin is infrequent in the first year postinitiation.
Thin Layer Membrane Systems as Rapid Development Tool for Potentiometric Solid Contact Ion‐selective Electrodes
Authors: Forrest Tara , Zdrachek Elena , Bakker Eric
Published: December 2019

The use of thin membrane layer ion‐selective electrodes (of ∼200 nm thickness) as rapid diagnosis tool is proposed. While conventional solid contact systems (with a membrane of ∼250 μm thickness) may exhibit a satisfactory stability for regular laboratory use, a signal degradation can still be distinguished over a longer period of time but this requires tedious and time consuming tests. By diminishing the thickness of the membrane by a factor of 103 approximately, diffusion processes happen faster, and the lifetime is significantly reduced. This would ordinarily be a strong drawback but not if the aim is to detect a membrane deterioration in a shorter time frame. This characteristic makes thin membrane systems an ideal tool for rapid complications identification in the development process of conventional solid contact electrodes. The approach is demonstrated here in the development of an all new solid contact probe for anions. PEDOT−C14, a conducting polymer, was used for the first time in a solid contact electrode with an anion exchange membrane for the detection of nitrate. The thin layer configuration was used to optimise the polymerisation parameters as well as the membrane composition without having to run week‐long trials. A stable conventional solid contact electrode was in the end successfully developed and exhibited a lower detection limit of 10−5.5 M for nitrate with a stable Nernstian response for several days.
Anxiety disorders predict fasting to control weight: A longitudinal large cohort study of adolescents
Authors: Lloyd E. Caitlin , Haase Anne M. , Zerwas Stephanie , Micali Nadia
Published: December 2019

Objective

To determine whether anxiety disorders are prospectively associated with fasting for weight‐loss/to avoid weight‐gain, a behaviour that precedes and is typical of anorexia nervosa (AN), during adolescence.

Method

Participants were 2,406 female adolescents of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. Anxiety disorders were assessed when participants were aged 13–14 and 15–16; fasting was measured approximately 2 years after each anxiety assessment. Generalised estimating equation models examined whether anxiety disorders predicted later fasting, across the two longitudinal waves of data. To probe the moderating effect of time, data were stratified by wave and binary logistic regression analyses completed.

Results

Across longitudinal waves, anxiety disorder presence predicted increased risk of later fasting. Evidence from wave‐stratified analyses supported a positive association between anxiety disorder presence at wave 15–16 and fasting at wave 17–18, however did not indicate an association between anxiety disorders at wave 13–14 and fasting at wave 15–16.

Discussion

Anxiety disorder presence in mid‐late, but not early, adolescence predicted increased likelihood of later fasting. The differential association could be explained by anxiety being parent‐reported at wave 13–14. Findings highlight anxiety disorder pathology as a possible eating disorder prevention target, though the nature of association observed requires clarification.
Hydrocarbon generation and expulsion features of the Upper Triassic Xujiahe Formation source rocks and their controlling effects on hydrocarbon accumulation in the Sichuan Basin, Central China
Authors: Zheng Tianyu , Ma Xinhua , Pang Xiongqi , Zheng Dingye , Wang Wenyang , Wang Xirong , Zhang Kun , Wang Ke , Ma Kuiyou
Published: December 2019

Understanding the features of the hydrocarbon generation and expulsion of the Upper Triassic Xujiahe Formation (T3x) source rocks is important to properly guide petroleum exploration in the Xujiahe Formation in the Sichuan Basin. Based on mass balance, the hydrocarbon generation and expulsion from the T3x source rocks are characterized in this paper through a method (i.e., hydrocarbon generation potential index using pyrolysis data) different from that used in previous studies. The threshold and peak of hydrocarbon expulsion are determined to be Ro = 0.9% and 1.15%, respectively. The amounts of hydrocarbon generated and expelled in the T3x source rocks are 4,525.5 × 108 and 2,420.5 × 108 t, respectively. Moreover, three hydrocarbon expulsion regions T3x have been identified in the Sichuan Basin. On the basis of the hydrocarbon generation and expulsion features of the source rocks and the distribution of the oil‐and‐gas reservoirs, the quantitative model of the hydrocarbon accumulation probability under the control of the T3x source rock is established via single‐factor regression analysis. The predictions obtained through this analysis show that the favourable oil‐and‐gas exploration areas in the Xujiahe Formation are distributed in the Qionglai, Chengdu, and Deyang regions, as well as in the west of Yilong region. Further, the results show that 78% of the discovered oil‐and‐gas reservoirs are located in the predicted favourable and relatively favourable oil‐and‐gas exploration areas.
Hydrocarbon potential of Late Palaeozoic residual basins in the Central Asian Orogenic Belt: Insights from the tectonic evolution of the Yinggen‐Ejinaqi Basin, Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Abitkazy Taskyn , Ma Yongsheng , Shi Kaibo , Wu Shuhong , Mu Langfeng , Zhao Lisha , Liu Bo
Published: December 2019

The Yinggen‐Ejinaqi Basin (YEB) is located in the central‐southern part of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB). Tectonically, the basin is situated at the intersection between the eastern and western CAOB, where Late Palaeozoic strata were well exposed. Hence, it offers a great opportunity to study the deep strata of the eastern CAOB. In this paper, based on extensive studies of Upper Palaeozoic field outcrops and reanalysis of associated geochemical and geochronological data in previous research, the local stratigraphic correlation is established, and the tectonic evolution, sedimentary filling, sedimentary characteristics, and petroleum system of the YEB are discussed. It is revealed that: (a) The filling characteristics of the Upper Palaeozoic strata in YEB are closely related to the closure of the Paleo‐Asian Ocean (PAO). YEB underwent subduction‐related compression during the initial extensional phase of the fore‐arc basin from the Viséan to the Serpukhovian (late Early Carboniferous). During the Bashkirian–Sakmarian interval (Late Carboniferous to Early Permian), it was in subduction‐related fore‐arc and postarc rifting phases. During the Artinskian–Capitanian (Early‐Middle Permian) times, it was in an intracontinental rifting‐depression phase. During the Wuchapingian (Late Permian), it was in an intracontinental compressional phase. Tectonostratigraphy, tectonic evolution, and hydrocarbon potential assessments of the study area show that the Zhusileng Hangwula‐Tost Ul tectonic zone (ZHTUTZ) and southwestern part of Querrshan‐Atasbogd tectonic zone (QATZ) are identified as the main prospective areas for the exploration in the YEB. (b) According to the tectonostratigraphic analysis, tectonic evolution and hydrocarbon system of Carboniferous–Permian in the YEB, the YEB has similar attributes to the basin province in western CAOB (e.g., Santanghu and Junggar basins) and eastern CAOB (Erlian, Songliao Basin). To explore commercial oil and gas in the deeper strata (Carboniferous–Permian) of the eastern CAOB basins, further tectonostratigraphic analyses and comprehensive assessment on hydrocarbon potentials are necessitated in the near future.
Characterization of the deeply buried microporous limestone: Case study from the Shunnan area, Tarim Basin, NW China
Authors: Wei Duan , Gao Zhiqian , Zhang Chi , Fan Tailiang , Tsau Jyun‐Syung
Published: December 2019

Reservoir characteristics and genetic mechanisms of the deeply buried microporous limestones have been determined by integrating mercury injection capillary pressure measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations on the Yingshan and Yijianfang formations in the Shunnan area, Tarim Basin. The studied intervals have low porosity (<2%) and permeability (<1 mD). Nearly all the macropores have been destroyed while the micropores, with pore diameters smaller than 10 μm, remain open, even at depths greater than 6,000 m. Based on petrophysical properties, the studied microporous limestones can be grouped into three types. Type I dominated by punctic‐serrate microcrystals is characterized by an intermediate porosity (1.63%), the highest permeability (1.1 mD) and the largest pore‐throat radius (13.01 μm). Type II is highly related with the vast meshed microfabric, which corresponds to the highest porosity of 4.22% but a relatively lower permeability (0.04 mD) and a smaller pore‐throat radius (0.26 μm). Type III mainly consists of the fitted coalescent microfabric and thus corresponds to the lowest reservoir quality (0.33%, 0.005 mD, 0.05 μm). Petrophysical characteristics of these different types are tightly associated with the microcrystals. Micropores hosted between the microcrystals determine the reservoir quality. The depositional textures, by contrast, have no correlation with the reservoir quality. Mudstone may have higher porosity and permeability values than the grainstone cemented by blocky calcite spar. Initial micropores within the limestones are mainly from the dissolution and re‐precipitation progress of the metastable aragonite and high‐Mg calcite. Ostwald ripening effect, which is more significant immediately below the high‐frequency shallowing‐upward sequence, can facilitate the dissolution and re‐precipitation progress, and thus locally improves the reservoir properties dominated by microporosity. Calcite cementation fills nearly all the macropores whereas the micropores remain open. Stylolites in the studied samples behave differently but predominantly act as conduits for fluid flow during the reservoir evolution progress. Since petrophysical properties tend to be independent from depositional textures, it is impractical to link lithology to a specific petrophysical property for the ultra‐deep micropores‐dominated limestone reservoir.
Geochemistry of the Middle Jurassic sediments in Gümüşhane, north‐eastern Turkey: Implications for weathering and provenance
Authors: Saydam Eker Çiğdem , Arı Uğur V.
Published: December 2019

The whole‐rock geochemistry and Sr‐Nd isotope data of Middle Jurassic sedimentary rocks in the Gümüşhane area (north‐eastern Turkey) were analysed to reconstruct the provenance, chemical weathering, sediment recycling history, and tectonic setting of the source area. Based on trace element ratios and rare earth element (REE) patterns, it was interpreted that the sandstones were derived from a source area with felsic‐mafic rocks as dominant contributors. The average chemical index of alteration (CIA) and weathering index (WIP) values are low with respect to Upper Continental Crust (UCC) in the studied sandstones and mudstones, but the index of compositional variability (ICV) values are high, thus revealing weak–moderate weathering conditions. The average Th/U ratios of the sandstones and mudstones indicate a relatively simple cycling history. The positive and low negative εNd values support the supposition that the source area did not undergo much sedimentary change. A model mixture composed of 60% granite, 5% granodiorite, and 35% gabbro could be deduced to be the potential source composition of Middle Jurassic sediments; this model was reinforced by the 87Sr/86Sr ratios and εNd(t) values of the sediments. The Middle Jurassic siliciclastic sedimentary rocks of the Gümüşhane region were likely deposited in a tectonic environment with a passive margin.
Support and unmet needs of patients undergoing multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis (MDR‐TB) treatment in southern Nigeria
Authors: Oshi Daniel , Chukwu Joseph , Nwafor Charles , Chukwu Ngozi E. , Meka Anthony O. , Anyim Moses , Ukwaja Kingsley N. , Alobu Isaac , Ekeke Ngozi , Oshi Sarah N.
Published: December 2019

Multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis (MDR‐TB) is presently a major public health threat. MDR‐TB patients face diverse financial and psychosocial difficulties. Researchers conducted in‐depth interviews based on interview guides with 42 participants. Data were analyzed using categorization, coding, generation of themes, and thematic memo writing. The key findings were as follows: Out of the 42 patients, 30 (71.4%) were males and 12 (28.6%) were females. All patients received financial stipends for transport and monthly social support. The patients however needed more financial support than they received (suggesting high unmet financial needs). Patients suffered depressive mood before and during treatment but received inadequate mental health/psychosocial care and treatment. Patients developed hearing impairment as a major adverse drug reaction, but the care and treatment they received were inadequate. In conclusion, the programmatic support provided for MDR‐TB patients' financial and mental health/psychosocial needs and auditory drug side effects fell short of their need. Programmes for control of MDR‐TB should increase budgetary allocations and ramp up mechanisms for provision of mental health/psychosocial support and care/treatment for drug side effects.
Establishing irrigation potential of a hillside aquifer in the African highlands
Authors: Tilahun Seifu A. , Yilak Debebe L. , Schmitter Petra , Zimale Fasikaw A. , Langan Simon , Barron Jennie , Parlange Jean‐Yves , Steenhuis Tammo S.
Published: December 2019

Feeding 9 billion people in 2050 will require sustainable development of all water resources, both surface and subsurface. Yet, little is known about the irrigation potential of hillside shallow aquifers in many highland settings in sub‐Saharan Africa that are being considered for providing irrigation water during the dry monsoon phase for smallholder farmers. Information on the shallow groundwater being available in space and time on sloping lands might aid in increasing food production in the dry monsoon phase. Therefore, the research objective of this work is to estimate potential groundwater storage as a potential source of irrigation water for hillside aquifers where lateral subsurface flow is dominant. The research was carried out in the Robit Bata experimental watershed in the Lake Tana basin which is typical of many undulating watersheds in the Ethiopian highlands. Farmers have excavated more than 300 hand dug wells for irrigation. We used 42 of these wells to monitor water table fluctuation from April 16, 2014 to December 2015. Precipitation and runoff data were recorded for the same period. The temporal groundwater storage was estimated using two methods: one based on the water balance with rainfall as input and baseflow and evaporative losses leaving the watershed as outputs; the second based on the observed rise and fall of water levels in wells. We found that maximum groundwater storage was at the end of the rain phase in September after which it decreased linearly until the middle of December due to short groundwater retention times. In the remaining part of the dry season period, only wells located close to faults contained water. Thus, without additional water sources, sloping lands can only be used for significant irrigation inputs during the first 3 months out of the 8 months long dry season.
Extended bladder catheterization for women with positive dye tests after obstetric vesicovaginal fistula repair surgery
Authors: Chang Olivia H. , Ganesh Prakash , Wilkinson Jeffrey P. , Pope Rachel J.
Published: December 2019

Objective

To determine the success rate and factors that result in a negative dye test after extended bladder catheterization after surgery for obstetric fistula.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was carried out on women who underwent obstetric fistula repair in Malawi and had ≥14 days of bladder catherization. Variables such as age, class of fistula, previous repairs, menopausal status, and HIV status were examined for association with successful healing at the end of the catheterization period.

Results

Fifty‐two patients had a positive dye test after the intended period of catheterization and the catheterization period was extended by 7 days. Of these patients, 29 (55.7%) had a subsequent negative dye test. Older women (mean age 28.4 years) who developed a fistula were more likely to have a negative dye test after extended catheterization, compared to their younger counterparts (mean age 20 years) (P=0.0018). Other variables were not found to be significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusion

More than half of the patients with a positive dye test had complete closure of the fistula defect after an extension of bladder decompression. It is reasonable to consider an extension of bladder catheterization for 7 days after an initial positive dye test.
Efficacy and safety of oral hyoscine used for outpatient cervical ripening among primiparous women with term pregnancy
Authors: Naeiji Zahra , Naghshvarian Narjes , Mirzamoradi Masoumeh , Sotudeh Sara , Moridi Atefeh
Published: December 2019

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of outpatient administration of oral hyoscine for cervical ripening.

Methods

In a randomized controlled trial at a university hospital in Tehran between September 2017 and December 2018, 100 primiparous women with singleton pregnancy at 380–400 gestational weeks and Bishop score of 5 or less were randomized to either routine expectant management (control group) or 10 mg of oral hyoscine twice daily for 1 week, followed by once daily for 1 week (hyoscine group).

Results

Mean ± SD Bishop score in the hyoscine and control groups was, respectively, 1.19 ± 1.38 and 1.08 ± 1.70 at baseline, and 4.56 ± 2.87 and 2.76 ± 2.14 on admission for delivery (P=0.001). Duration of the first stage was 4.10 ± 5.49 hours in the hyoscine and 5.29 ± 6.48 hours in the control group (P=0.03). Duration of the second and third stages was, respectively, 0.52 ± 0.53 and 0.14 ± 0.25 hours in the hyoscine, and 0.59 ± 1.08 and 0.12 ± 0.15 hours in the control group. No adverse effects were reported.

Conclusion

Administration of oral hyoscine in an outpatient setting was found to ripen the cervix with no clinically significant adverse drug reaction.

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20180819040830N1)
Uniform sarcolemmal dystrophin expression is required to prevent extracellular microRNA release and improve dystrophic pathology
Authors: van Westering Tirsa L.E. , Lomonosova Yulia , Coenen‐Stass Anna M.L. , Betts Corinne A. , Bhomra Amarjit , Hulsker Margriet , Clark Lucy E. , McClorey Graham , Aartsma‐Rus Annemieke , van Putten Maaike , Wood Matthew J.A. , Roberts Thomas C.
Published: December 2019

Background

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal muscle‐wasting disorder caused by genetic loss of dystrophin protein. Extracellular microRNAs (ex‐miRNAs) are putative, minimally invasive biomarkers of DMD. Specific ex‐miRNAs (e.g. miR‐1, miR‐133a, miR‐206, and miR‐483) are highly up‐regulated in the serum of DMD patients and dystrophic animal models and are restored to wild‐type levels following exon skipping‐mediated dystrophin rescue in mdx mice. As such, ex‐miRNAs are promising pharmacodynamic biomarkers of exon skipping efficacy. Here, we aimed to determine the degree to which ex‐miRNA levels reflect the underlying level of dystrophin protein expression in dystrophic muscle.

Methods

Candidate ex‐miRNA biomarker levels were investigated in mdx mice in which dystrophin was restored with peptide‐PMO (PPMO) exon skipping conjugates and in mdx‐XistΔhs mice that express variable amounts of dystrophin from birth as a consequence of skewed X‐chromosome inactivation. miRNA profiling was performed in mdx‐XistΔhs mice using the FirePlex methodology and key results validated by small RNA TaqMan RT‐qPCR. The muscles from each animal model were further characterized by dystrophin western blot and immunofluorescence staining.

Results

The restoration of ex‐myomiR abundance observed following PPMO treatment was not recapitulated in the high dystrophin‐expressing mdx‐XistΔhs group, despite these animals expressing similar amounts of total dystrophin protein (~37% of wild‐type levels). Instead, ex‐miRNAs were present at high levels in mdx‐XistΔhs mice regardless of dystrophin expression. PPMO‐treated muscles exhibited a uniform pattern of dystrophin localization and were devoid of regenerating fibres, whereas mdx‐XistΔhs muscles showed non‐homogeneous dystrophin staining and sporadic regenerating foci.

Conclusions

Uniform dystrophin expression is required to prevent ex‐miRNA release, stabilize myofiber turnover, and attenuate pathology in dystrophic muscle.
Synthesis of 3‐aryl pyrrolidines: A highlights
Authors: Barman Gopa
Published: December 2019

Pyrrolidine derivatives are very important families of heterocyclic compounds that show diverse biological activity. The substitution pattern and functionalization on these derivatives show different biological activities. Different substituted pyrrolidines shown to have different antibacterial effects. They are also used as scaffolds in the synthesis of unnatural oligomers which have various biological applications in the field of antidiabetic, anticancer, antimalarial, antiviral, antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, and antibacterial activities. Numerous groups have synthesized substituted pyrrolidines and they constructed the pyrrolidine ring by the formation of various different bonds from acyclic precursors. Some of the groups have synthesized that derivatives only by reduction.
A 5‐year molecular epidemiology survey of human enterovirus 71 before vaccine application in Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Liu Hong‐Bo , Yu Liang , Zhang Jie , Huang Xiao‐Qin , Yang Zhao‐Qing , Liao Guo‐Yang , Sun Hao , Ma Shao‐Hui
Published: December 2019

Enterovirus A71 (EV‐A71) infection is known to cause hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). Last year, an inactivated EV‐A71 whole virus vaccine was used to prevent this disease in Yunnan, China. To obtain a viral genetic background for evaluating vaccine protection and monitor the adaptive evolution of the virus after the vaccination, a 5‐year molecular epidemiology survey was performed before the vaccination. Twenty‐six EV‐A71 strains were separated from 561 stool specimens of patients with serious HFMD. The whole‐genomic sequences of these strains were sequenced. Phylogenetic trees were constructed, and the mutation spectra were analyzed based on these viral sequences. There was no obvious mutation for the circular EV‐A71 strains of the same year. Pathogenic EV‐A71 strains may arise from a “subgroup” randomly each year. Whole‐genomic analyses showed that a hotspot nonsynonymous substitution potentially affecting the immunogenicity of vaccines was found in the 2A gene, but not in genes of the viral capsid proteins, and the genetic diversity of whole viral genomes associated with the incidence of HFMD. Therefore, it will be valuable to monitor the genome‐wide changes of EV‐A71 to detect the adaptive mutations affecting immunogenicity or perform investigations using genetic diversity as a parameter.
Determination of pesticide residual levels in strawberry (Fragaria) by near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Yazici Arzu , Tiryaki Gulgun Yildiz , Ayvaz Huseyin
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

In this study, an infrared‐based prediction method was developed for easy, fast and non‐destructive detection of pesticide residue levels measured by reference analysis in strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch, cv. Albion) samples using near‐infrared spectroscopy and demonstrating its potential alternative or complementary use instead of traditional pesticide determination methods. Strawberries of Albion variety, which were supplied directly from greenhouses, were used as the study material. A total of 60 batch sample groups, each consisting of eight strawberries, was formed, and each group was treated with a commercial pesticide at different concentrations (26.7% boscalid + 6.7% pyraclostrobin) and varying residual levels were obtained in strawberry batches. The strawberry samples with pesticide residuals were used both to collect near‐infrared spectra and to determine reference pesticide levels, applying QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, rugged, safe) extraction, followed by liquid chromatographic–mass spectrometric analysis.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Partial least squares regression (PLSR) models were developed for boscalid and pyraclostrobin active substances. During model development, the samples were randomly divided into two groups as calibration (n = 48) and validation (n = 12) sets. A calibration model was developed for each active substance, and then the models were validated using cross‐validation and external sets. Performance evaluation of the PLSR models was evaluated based on the residual predictive deviation (RPD) of each model. An RPD of 2.28 was obtained for boscalid, while it was 2.31 for pyraclostrobin. These results indicate that the developed models have reasonable predictive power. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
The effects of hydroalcoholic extract of spinach on prevention and treatment of some metabolic and histologic features in a rat model of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Amirinejad Ali , Hekmatdoost Azita , Ebrahimi Abdolali , Ranjbaran Fatemeh , Shidfar Farzad
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

This study evaluated the effects of hydroalcoholic extract of spinach (HES) on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In the prevention phase, 18 Sprague–Dawley rats were fed a high‐fat diet, a high‐fat diet plus 400 mg kg−1 HES, or a chow diet for 7 weeks. For the treatment phase, after the induction of NAFLD, they were fed a high‐fat diet, a high‐fat diet plus 400 mg kg−1 HES, a chow diet, or chow diet plus 400 mg kg−1 HES for 4 weeks (n = 6).

RESULTS

Weight gain (P = 0.01), food intake (P < 0.01), serum glucose (P = 0.01), triglyceride (TG) (P = 0.02), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐c) (P = 0.01), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (P = 0.02), liver steatosis, and the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity score (NAS) (P < 0.01) in the high‐fat group were statistically higher than in the other groups at the end of the prevention phase. Feeding spinach extract to rats on a high‐fat diet decreased serum glucose (P = 0.01), total cholesterol (TCh) (P < 0.01), AST (P = 0.01), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (P < 0.01), and liver steatosis (P < 0.01) in the treatment phase.

CONCLUSION

Overall, spinach extract showed beneficial effects in the prevention and treatment of NAFLD. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Dietary supplementation of rumen‐protected methionine decreases the nitrous oxide emissions of urine of beef cattle through decreasing urinary excretions of nitrogen and urea
Authors: Zhao Yuchao , Rahman Md Sazzadur , Zhao Guangyong , Bao Yu , Zhou Ke
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Two consecutive trials were carried out to study the effects of dietary supplementation of rumen‐protected methionine (RPM) on nutrient digestibility, nitrogen (N) metabolism (Trial 1), and consequently the nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from urine in beef cattle (Trial 2). Eight 24‐month‐old castrated Simmental bulls with liveweights of 494 ± 28 kg, and four levels of dietary supplementation of RPM at 0, 10, 20, and 30 g head−1 d−1, were allocated in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square for Trial 1 and the N2O emissions from the urine samples collected in Trial 1 were measured using a static incubation technique in Trial 2.

RESULTS

Supplementation of RPM at 0, 10, 20, and 30 g head−1 d−1 to a basal ration deficient in methionine (Met) did not affect the apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, neutral detergent fiber, or acid detergent fiber (P > 0.05), but decreased the urinary excretions of total N (P < 0.05) and urea (P < 0.001), increased the ratio of N retention / digested N (P < 0.05) in beef cattle, and decreased the estimated cattle urine N2O‐N emissions by 19.5%, 23.4%, and 32.6%, respectively (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Supplementation of RPM to Met‐deficient rations was effective in improving the utilization rate of dietary N and decreasing the N2O emissions from urine in beef cattle. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Validation of a liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry method for the determination of drugs in wastewater using a three‐phase solvent system
Authors: Pascale Raffaella , Bianco Giuliana , Coviello Donatella , Cristina Lafiosca Maria , Masi Salvatore , Mancini Ignazio M. , Bufo Sabino A. , Scrano Laura , Caniani Donatella
Published: December 2019

Pharmaceuticals constitute one of the most important emerging classes of environmental pollutants. A three‐phase solvent system of water, water containing 0.1% of formic acid and acetonitrile was successfully used to separate, by liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (LC‐MS), polarity‐matched pharmaceuticals, that is, carbamazepine, clarithromycin, and erythromycin, as well as amoxicillin and metformin. Despite of polarity similarities, these pharmaceuticals were completely resolved in the analytical run time of 15 min. The optimized three‐phase solvent system based‐method was validated for the simultaneous analysis of six matched‐polarity pharmaceuticals in wastewater samples. Good linearity (coefficient of determination more than 0.993) and precision (relative standard deviation less than 15.66%) were achieved. Recovery of analytes from the wastewater was between 0.70 and 1.18. Limits of detections ranged from 0.0001 to 0.5114 µg/L. No significant matrix effect, evaluated by post extraction addition, was observed in the electrospray ionization (ESI) source. Then, this methodology has been successfully applied to environmental study of pharmaceutical residues occurring in influent and effluent wastewater samples, from the main wastewater treatment plant in Potenza (Basilicata, Southern Italy).