bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Multicomponent Adsorption Kinetics for CO2 Enhanced Gas Recovery from Tight Shales
Authors: Berawala Dhruvit Satishchandra , Østebø Andersen Pål
Published: April 2019

Only 3-10 % of gas from tight shale is recovered economically through natural depletion, demonstrating a significant potential for enhanced shale gas recovery (ESGR). Experimental studies have demonstrated that shale kerogen/organic matter has higher affinity for CO2 than methane, CH4, which opens possibilities for carbon storage and new production strategies.

This paper presents a new multicomponent adsorption isotherm which is coupled with a flow model for evaluation of injection-production scenarios. The isotherm is based on the assumption that different gas species compete for adsorbing on a limited specific surface area. Rather than assuming a capacity of a fixed number of sites or moles this finite surface area is filled with species taking different amount of space per mole. The final form is a generalized multicomponent Langmuir isotherm. Experimental adsorption data for CO2 and CH4 on Marcellus shale are matched with the proposed isotherm using relevant fitting parameters. The isotherm is first applied in static examples to calculate gas in place reserves, recovery factors and enhanced gas recovery potential based on contributions from free gas and adsorbed gas components. The isotherm is further coupled with a dynamic flow model with application to CO2-CH4 substitution for CO2-ESGR. We study the feasibility and effectiveness of CO2 injection in tight shale formations in an injection-production setting representative of lab and field implementation and compare with regular pressure depletion.

The production scenario we consider is a 1D shale core or matrix system intitally saturated with free and adsorbed CH4 gas with only left side (well) boundary open. During primary depletion, gas is produced from the shale to the well by advection and desorption. This process tends to give low recovery and is entirely dependent on the well pressure. Stopping production and then injecting CO2 into the shale leads to increase in pressure where CO2 gets preferentially adsorbed over CH4. The injected CO2 displaces, but also mixes with the in situ CH4. Restarting production from the well then allows CH4 gas to be produced in the gas mixture. Diffusion allows the CO2 to travel further into the matrix while keeping CH4 accessible to the well. Surface substitution further reduces the CO2 content and increases the CH4 content in the gas mixture that is produced to the well. A result of the isotherm and its application of Marcellus experimental data is that adsorption of CO2 with resulting desorption of CH4 will lead to a reduction in total pressure if the CO2 content in the gas composition is increased. That is in itself an important drive mechanism since the pressure gradient driving fluid flow is maintained (pressure buildup is avoided). This is a result of CO2 being found to take ~24 times less space per mol than CH4.
A Laboratory Method for Estimation of Storage Capacity of Rock Samples under Effective Stress
Authors: Aldana Gallego Ivan C. , Akkutlu I. Yucel
Published: April 2019

Fluid storage capacity measurements of core-plugs in the laboratory considers pore-volume as a function of effective stress. The latter is equal to (Applied Confining Pressure) − (Effective Stress Coefficient) x (Applied Pore Pressure). However, results are often reported as a function of difference in the applied pressures, because the coefficient is unknown and depends on the sample. This creates confusion during the interpretation of laboratory data and leads to added uncertainties in the analysis of storage capacity.

In this paper we present a new laboratory method that allows simultaneous prediction of the sample pore volume, coefficient of isothermal pore compressibility, and the stress coefficient. These quantities are necessary to predict the fluid storage as a function of effective stress. The method requires two stages of gas (helium) uptake by the sample under confining pressure and pore pressure and measures pressure-volume data. Confining pressure is always kept larger than the equilibrium pore-pressure but their values at each stage are changed arbitrarily. The method considers gas leakage adjustments at high pore pressure. The analysis is simple and includes simultaneous solutions of two algebraic equations including the measured pressure-volume data.

The model is validated by taking the reference pore volume near zero stress. The reference volume predicted matches with that measured independently using the standard helium porosimeter. For sandstone and shale, the pore compressibility is on average 10-5 psi-1 and the effective stress coefficient is slightly higher than 1. The effective stress coefficient in isotropic elastic porous materials is known as the Biot coefficient and the value we predict indicates the relationship between the bulk and grain volume moduli.

Interestingly the effective stress coefficient predicted using shale samples rich in clays and organic matter is slightly higher than for sandstone. This indicates that other features of the sample such as fine-scale texture (laminations, and anisotropy, etc.) could come into play during the fluid storage measurements.
Experimental Investigation of Integrity Issues of UGS Containing Hydrogen
Authors: Boersheim Erik Clemens , Reitenbach Victor , Albrecht Daniel , Pudlo Dieter , Ganzer Leonhard
Published: April 2019

Hydrogen is portrayed as the fuel of the future. The storage of hydrogen in porous underground gas storages is a promising solution for large-scale energy storage in Germany. In theory, excess energy sourced from renewable sources would be converted to hydrogen and subsequently stored in underground porous media. This solution provides cost effective solutions whilst providing large capacities in comparison to other energy storage types, however hydrogen interactions in underground gas storage sites (UGS) is a perplexing topic due to its foreign nature and therefore its behavior in the subsurface could be unpredictable.

The implementation of autoclaves to recreate UGS with added hydrogen is a novel approach to investigate potential integrity issues that may arise during its lifetime. Where autoclaves can simulate conditions similar to UGS to analyze potential changes in the subsurface. The principal idea of autoclaves are to house samples which are exposed to pressures and temperatures equivalent that of typical Underground Gas Storages (max 200 bar, 120°C), allowing the recreation of any reservoir environment.

The Primary objective is to investigate interactions between subsurface materials combined with reservoir rock and hydrogen. Aforementioned interactions can be interpreted through the analysis of mineralogical, petrophysical, hydrochemical changes to ascertain information regarding to the productivity of the UGS, for examples reviewing changes in permeability and porosity.

Furthermore, the application of autoclaves can help to estimate the magnitude of hydrogen damage in subsurface equipment by providing insight into identifying key materials necessary to design a system preventing hydrogen damage to the subsurface; Supplementary implementation of conventional component inspection of mechanical properties of steels and cements through tensile strength testing and unconfined compressive strength testing, respectively, enable the extent of hydrogen damage inspection in UGS with added hydrogen. Predominantly API grade steels and API Grade G cement where used for this investigation. Preliminary autoclave experimentation results show that hydrogen can alter the characteristics of UGS, where API steels have shown to experience mild hydrogen damage and reservoir rock and API cement G samples have alterations in their chemical and physical characteristics.

Autoclaves provide flexible choice in testing parameters and can be used to recreate any UGS with any gas mixtures, allowing for limitless testing possibilities to test for potential integrity issues in porous UGS containing hydrogen.
Souring Prediction on Mature Waterflooded Reservoirs in North Kuwait
Authors: Al-Refai Sayed A’Rahman , Al-Ajmi Moudi , Oduola Lukman , Caicedo Martinez Carlos
Published: April 2019

Presence of H2S detected in producing wells of North Kuwait sweet waterflooded reservoirs over the last 18 years, gave indications of biogenic souring. In response to this, the Kuwait Oil Company engaged in detailed souring potential assessments of selected reservoirs such as the Raudhatain Mauddud (RAMA), to predict the further generation of H2S and define the required souring mitigation strategy to ensure safe production over the remaining field life.

The souring simulation modelling was conducted on the RAMA subsurface model with support from Shell, using a state of the art souring prediction program. The initial phase of the study consisted in the history match simulation to define the most likely souring mechanism in the field. The forecast considered various scenarios with a range of sensitivities on carbon nutrient and sulphate levels, both in formation and injected water in the field.

The history match simulation results showed a good correlation with most of the producers with available H2S data. The Forecast simulation over the next 15-year period predicts a moderate souring severity for this reservoir, based on the maximum H2S mass flow rate of 90 kg/d and H2S in gas maximum concentration of 85 ppmv at the field level.

This work provides the petroleum Industry further insights into the souring behavior when effluent water is injected in addition to seawater, particularly the effects of additional carbon nutrients fed into the reservoir.
The Beckwith – Wiedemann syndrome or is it all simple in the era of
present-day development
Authors: O.A. Grammatikova, V.N. Osadshaya, E.E. Shipovskova
Published: April 2019

The article contains description of the congenital genetic disease — Beckwith — Wiedemann syndrome.
The issues of aetiology, diagnosis of the disease and features of postnatal management of newborns are described.
Restrictive foramen ovale as the cause of the predominance
of the fetal right heart
Authors: A.V. Makogon , I.V. Andrushina
Published: April 2019

Objective: сurrently antenatal premature closure (restriction) foramen ovale (RFO) is under recognised.
The case of the RFO is analysed.
Materials. Pregnant woman E was undergone diagnostic ultrasound at 33 weeks of gestation and monitoring up to delivery (39 weeks). The newborn has been followed up 3 months. Fetal heart was examined in
general order and in the bicaval view.
ПРЕНАТАЛЬНАЯ ДИАГНОСТИКА Рестриктивное овальное окно 231
как причина увеличения правых отделов сердца
2018 Т 17 № 3; 225-231
Results. Fetal examination revealed cardiomegaly, predominance of the right heart, aneurysm of the
interatrial septum, high blood velocity through the foramen ovale channel (67.18 sm/s). The diameter
of the aortic isthmus (AI) was 3.4 mm (Z-score — 2.06). We concluded that it was ROO. The conclusion
of the echocardiography was coarctation of the aorta (CoA). The diameter of the AI reached 4.6 mm
(Z-score — 1.01) up to 39 weeks of gestation. The newborn’s echocardiography is normal.
Conclusion. Fetal heart ultrasound examination is important for obstetric management in the third trimester of gestation and follow up the newborn. It is necessary to include the PFO into differential diagnosis
of the fetal heart right-sided dominance as the most probable cause and to follow up this fetus to delivery.
Normally two-phase blood flow in AI is possible at the end of pregnancy.
Prenatal diagnosis of two cases of fistula of anorectal atresia in the fetus at
11–14 weeks of gestation
Authors: N.A. Altynnik , A.D. Minkailova
Published: April 2019

Two cases of prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of isolated anorectal atresia with perineal fistula at 11–14
weeks of gestation are presented.
Experimental research on the maximum backwater height in front of a permeable spur dike in the bend of a spillway chute
Authors: Yang Jinmeng , Zhang Jing , Zhang Qinghua , Teng Xiaomin , Chen Wei , Li Xuemei
Published: April 2019

Hydraulic experiments on installing a permeable spur dike at three positions (1/4, 1/2, and 3/4) on the concave bank of the bend of a spillway chute with three angles (45°, 60° and 75°) were carried out for studying the backwater condition in front of the permeable spur dike. Results show that the maximum backwater height occurs at the cross-section where the permeable spur dike meets the concave bank of the bend. A formula for the maximum backwater height was derived by the employment of the principle of momentum conservation, and the formula indicates that the height is influenced by the geometric parameters of the permeable spur dike and the bend, the layout of the spur dike in the bend, and the inflow discharge. Based on experimental data, a regression analysis was implemented on the water depth coefficient in the formula. Furthermore, the maximum backwater height can be obtained through the water depth at the concave bank of the end of bend when the parameters and installing pattern of the permeable spur dike are determined.
On the stability of plane-parallel dusty-gas flows
Authors: Boronin S.A.
Published: April 2019

In the framework of two-fluid approach, we consider different formulations of the stability of plane-parallel two-phase flows. New factors are taken into account, namely, non-uniform particle concentration and particle velocity slip in the main flow, Saffman lift force in the interphase momentum exchange and a finite particle volume fraction. The study is aimed at the analysis of the effect of these factors on the critical Reynolds number and the stability margins of two-phase flows in a plane channel and boundary layer.
The formation of gas hydrates behind the shock wave
Authors: Dontsov V.E.
Published: April 2019

The processes of dissolution and hydrate formation after a shock wave of moderate amplitude in a liquid with bubbles of a homogeneous gas and a mixture of gases. It is shown that these processes due to the fragmentation of gas bubbles, leading to a sharp increase the interfacial surface and the decrease in the size of gas inclusions. Mechanisms of hydrate formation behind the wave front are studied. A theoretical analysis of the process of hydrate formation behind a shock wave of a step profile.
Reflection of a longitudinal travelling wave from the notch in a rod
Authors: Ilgamov M.A. , Khakimov A.G.
Published: April 2019

This article investigates the reflection of a longitudinal wave from the transverse notch and its movement along an infinite rod. The dependence is obtained between the reflected wave and parameters of the notch. The statement of the inverse problem allows defining the coordinate of the notch and the parameter that contains its depth and length using data on both the incident and reflected waves at the observation point.
Numerical modeling of thermal impact on high-viscosity hydrocarbon systems
Authors: Kovaleva L.A. , Kireev V.N. , Musin A.А.
Published: April 2019

The numerical modeling of the heating of a high-viscosity hydrocarbon liquid, whose viscosity and thermal conductivity depend on the temperature, is carried out in this research. A system of equations for free convection is solved in the linear Boussinesq approximation. The dynamics of changes in the temperature field and convective structures in a liquid is studied.
A refined model of nonlinear nonspherical oscillations of a gas bubble in liquid
Authors: Kosolapova L.A. , Malakhov V.G.
Published: April 2019

A mathematical model of nonlinear oscillations of a gas bubble in a liquid is proposed, in which the change of the bubble surface shape is represented as a series of spherical harmonics, and the equations are accurate up to the third order with respect to the distortion amplitudes of the bubble spherical shape. It is shown that the application of the refined model can lead to modes of oscillation that differ from those obtained using the second-order model.
Dynamics of Vapor Bubbles in Cluster in the Strong Acoustic Field
Authors: Topolnikov A.S. , Konovalova S.I.
Published: April 2019

The radial and translational motion of spherical vapor bubbles in a cluster under the influence of ultrasound field of high amplitude (about 10 atmospheres) is studied. In mathematical describing of the problem the discrete model is used, according to which the dynamics of single bubble in a cluster is considered separately, and the interaction between bubbles is implemented by secondary Bjerknes forces. The possibility of amplification of radial pulsations of the bubbles by their joined motion is studied. The process of structure formation in a cluster and stability of oscillations (positional and radial) is investigated.
Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Traditional Uses of Curcuma spp. and Pharmacological Profile of Two Important Species (C. longa and C. zedoaria): A Review
Authors: Ayati Zahra , Ramezani Mahin , Amiri Mohammad Sadegh , Moghadam Ali Tafazoli , Rahimi Hoda , Abdollahzade Aref , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Emami Seyed Ahmad
Published: April 2019

Ethnopharmacological relevance:

The genus Curcuma, which is the most important source of curcumin,
has been widely used in different traditional medicines. Various species of Curcuma have long been used for
several purposes such as healing wounds, liver disorders, jaundice and also as a blood purifier.

Aim of the study:

This review focused on the ethnopharmacological uses and phytochemical aspects of Curcuma.
Additionally, in this study, the different properties of two species of Curcuma in Islamic Traditional Medicine
(ITM), C. longa and C. zedoaria, as well as their pharmacological aspects in modern medicine are reviewed.

Materials and methods:

ITM literatures were searched to find Curcuma’s applications. Also, electronic databases
including PubMed and Scopus were searched to obtain studies giving any in vitro, in vivo or human evidence of
the efficacy of C. longa and C. zedoaria in the treatment of different diseases. ChemOffice software was used to
find chemical structures.

Results:

The analysis showed that ethno-medical uses of Curcuma have been recorded for centuries. Approximately,
427 chemical compounds have been isolated and identified from Curcuma spp. This genus is rich in
flavonoids, tannins, anthocyanin, phenolic compounds, oil, organic acids and inorganic compounds. Curcumin is
one of the main active ingredients in Curcuma which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Besides,
pharmacological studies have indicated wide range of Curcuma’s activities, such as hepato-protective,
antifungal, antihypertensive and neuroprotective.

Conclusions:

In this study, we reviewed various studies conducted on ethno-medicinal, ITM properties and photochemistry
of Curcuma spp. Also, pharmacological activities of two species, C. longa and C. zedoaria are summarized.
Pre-clinical investigations have demonstrated some of the traditional aspects of Curcuma, such as
wound healing, anti-arthritic, anti-tumor and liver protective activities. These could be related to antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory properties of Curcuma which might be due to high amounts of phenolic compounds. Curcuma
is mentioned to have neural tonic properties in ITM which have been confirmed by some animal studies. Considering
various preclinical studies on C. longa and C. zedoaria and their active ingredient, curcumin, randomized
controlled trials are warranted to confirm their promise as a clinically effective hepato and neuro-protective
agents.
An Overview of Bio-oil Upgrading with High Hydrogen-containing Feedstocks to Produce Transportation Fuels: Chemistry, Catalysts, and Engineering
Authors: Wang Bing , Xiao Rui , Zhang Huiyan
Published: April 2019

As an alternative to increasingly depleted traditional petroleum fuel, bio-oil has
many advantages: high energy density, flexibility, easy storage and transportation. Nevertheless,
bio-oil also presents some unwanted characteristics such as high viscosity, acidity,
oxygen content and chemical instability. The process of bio-oil upgrading is necessary before
utilization as transportation fuels. In addition, the bio-oil has low effective hydrogen/
carbon molar ratio (H/Ceff) which may lead to coke formation and hence deactivation
of the catalyst during the upgrading process. Therefore, it seemed that co-refining of biooil
with other higher hydrogen-containing feedstocks is necessary. This paper provides a
broad review of the bio-oil upgrading with high hydrogen-containing feedstocks to produce
transportation fuels: chemistry, catalyst, and engineering research aspects were discussed.
The different thermochemical conversion routes to produce bio-oil and its physical-chemical properties
are discussed firstly. Then the bio-oil upgrading research using traditional technologies and common catalysts
that emerged in recent years are briefly reviewed. Furthermore, the applications of high H/Ceff feedstock to
produce high-quality of bio-oil are also discussed. Moreover, the emphasis is placed on co-refining technologies
to produce transportation fuels. The processes of co-refining bio-oil and vacuum gas oil in fluid catalytic
cracking (FCC) unit for transportation fuels from laboratory scale to pilot scale are also covered in this review.
Co-refining technology makes it possible for commercial applications of bio-oil. Finally, some suggestions and
prospects are put forward.
Effects of Radiation on Drug Metabolism: A Review
Authors: Li Xiangyang , Yang Jianxin , Qiao Yijie , Duan Yabin , Xin Yuanyao , Nian Yongqiong , Zhu Lin , Liu Guiqin
Published: April 2019

Background:

Radiation is the fourth most prevalent type of pollution following the water, air and noise
pollution. It can adversely affect normal bodily functions. Radiation alters the protein and mRNA expression of drugmetabolizing
enzymes and drug transporters and the pharmacokinetic characteristics of drugs, thereby affecting drug
absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Therefore, it is important to study the pharmacokinetic changes
in drugs under radiation.

Methods:

To update data on the effects of ionizing radiation and non-ionizing radiation caused by environmental
pollution or clinical treatments on the protein and mRNA expression of drug-metabolizing enzymes and drug transporters.
Data and information on pharmacokinetic changes in drugs under radiation were analyzed and summarized.

Results:

The effect of radiation on cytochrome P450 is still a subject of debate. The widespread belief is that higherdose
radiation increased the expression of CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 of rat, zebrafish or human, CYP1A2, CYP2B1, and
CYP3A1 of rat, and CYP2E1 of mouse or rat, and decreased that of rat’s CYP2C11 and CYP2D1. Radiation increased
the expression of multidrug resistance protein, multidrug resistance-associated protein, and breast cancer
resistance protein. The metabolism of some drugs, as well as the clearance, increased during concurrent chemoradiation
therapy, whereas the half-life, mean residence time, and area under the curve decreased. Changes in the expression
of cytochrome P450 and drug transporters were consistent with the changes in the pharmacokinetics of some
drugs under radiation.

Conclusion:

The findings of this review indicated that radiation caused by environmental pollution or clinical treatments
can alter the pharmacokinetic characteristics of drugs. Thus, the pharmacokinetics of drugs should be rechecked
and the optimal dose should be re-evaluated after radiation.
Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes Reinforced into Hollow Fiber by Chitosan Sol-gel for Solid/Liquid Phase Microextraction of NSAIDs from Urine Prior to HPLC-DAD Analysis
Authors: AL-Hashimi Nabil N. , El-Sheikh Amjad H. , Qawariq Rania F. , Shtaiwi Majed H. , AlEjielat Rowan
Published: April 2019

Background:

The efficient analytical method for the analysis of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs) in a biological fluid is important for determining the toxicological aspects
of such long-term used therapies.

Methods:

In the present work, multi-walled carbon nanotubes reinforced into a hollow fiber by chitosan
sol-gel assisted-solid/ liquid phase microextraction (MWCNTs-HF-CA-SPME) method followed
by the high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection (HPLC–DAD) was developed
for the determination of three NSAIDs, ketoprofen, diclofenac, and ibuprofen in human urine samples.
MWCNTs with various dimensions were characterized by various analytical techniques. The extraction
device was prepared by immobilizing the MWCNTs in the pores of 2.5 cm microtube via chitosan
sol-gel assisted technology while the lumen of the microtube was filled with few microliters of
1-octanol with two ends sealed. The extraction device was operated by direct immersion in the sample
solution.

Results:

The main factors influencing the extraction efficiency of the selected NSAIDs have been examined.
The method showed good linearity R2 ≥ 0.997 with RSDs from 1.1 to 12.3%. The limits of detection
(LODs) were 2.633, 2.035 and 2.386 µg L-1, for ketoprofen, diclofenac, and ibuprofen, respectively.
The developed method demonstrated a satisfactory result for the determination of selected drugs
in patient urine samples and comparable results against reference methods.

Conclusion:

The method is simple, sensitive and can be considered as an alternative for clinical laboratory
analysis of selected drugs.
Medical Records Quality as Prevention Tool for Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) Related Litigation: a Case Series
Authors: Albano Giuseppe D. , Bertozzi Giuseppe , Maglietta Francesca , Montana Angelo , Di Mizio Giulio , Esposito Massimiliano , Mazzeo Pietro , D'Errico Stefano , Salerno Monica
Published: April 2019

Background:

Healthcare-associated infections are one of the most serious Public Health
concern, as they prolong the length of hospitalization, reduce the quality of life, and increase morbidity
and mortality. Despite they are not completely avoidable, the number of healthcare-associated infections
related to negligence claims has risen over the last years, contributing to remarkable economic
and reputation losses of Healthcare System.

Methods:

In this regard, several studies suggested a key role of medical records quality in determining
medical care process, risk management and preventing liability. Clinical documentation should be able
to demonstrate that clinicians met their duty of care and did not compromise patient’s safety.

Results:

Therefore, it has a key role in assessing healthcare workers’ liability in malpractice litigation.
Our risk management experience has confirmed the role of medical records accuracy in preventing
hospital liability and improving the quality of medical care.

Conclusion:

In the presented healthcare-associated infections cases, evidence-based and guidelinesbased
practice, as well as a complete/incomplete medical record, have shown to significantly affect the
verdict of the judicial court and inclusion/exclusion of hospital liability in healthcare-associated infections
related claims.
Management and Outcomes of Aortic Dissection in Pregnancy with Marfan Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Al-Thani Hassan , Mekkodathil Ahammed , El-Menyar Ayman
Published: April 2019

Background:

In Marfan Syndrome (MFS), aortic dilatation is one of the main cardiovascular
manifestations which deteriorate due to the physiological changes during pregnancy. We aimed to assess
the up-to-date management and outcomes of aortic root dilation and dissection (AoD) in pregnancy
with MFS.

Patients and Methods:

A systematic review was conducted and reported according to the Preferred
Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Original studies published
between January 1, 2001 and December 31, 2018 and which described the management and/or outcomes
of AoD during or after pregnancy in women with MFS were included. Literature searches were
conducted. The PubMed search was performed using terms "Marfan Syndrome" [Mesh] and "Pregnancy"
[Mesh] whereas the Google Scholar search was for “Marfan” and “Pregnancy”, all words anywhere
in the article.

Results:

The literature search yielded 177 articles on PubMed and 13,900 articles on Google Scholar.
Assessment of full-text articles for eligibility after removal of duplicates from both databases yielded 12
eligible studies to be included in the final review.

Conclusion:

Women with MFS are at high risk of aortic dissection during pregnancy and women with
aortic root 41-45 mm should consider avoiding pregnancy. Guideline-specific management of aortic
aneurysms in pregnancy will reduce the risk of dissection. Diagnosis and Management of MFS need
a multidisciplinary approach and team that should start working early in pregnancy. Further studies are
needed to optimize medical and surgical approaches in addition to preconception counselling in highrisk
subjects.
Carbon Nanotubes Enhance the Chemotherapy Sensitivity of Tumors with Multidrug Resistance
Authors: Wang Zhijie , Tao Jinhua , Chen Jianan , Liu Qian
Published: April 2019

Background:

Chemotherapy is the most important treatment method against cancer, in
addition to surgery and radiotherapy. However, Multidrug Resistance (MDR) in cancer always
results in the failure of chemotherapy. Effective chemotherapy agents need to be delivered
efficiently, distributed mostly in the tumor tissue, and highly internalized by tumor cells to eventually
inhibit proliferation or promote death of the tumor cells. A growing number of studies have indicated
that any defects that emerge during these steps could contribute to the occurrence of MDR in tumors.
Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) are newly developed biocompatible materials that can be designed to
deliver anticancer agents by functionalizing the CNTs with drugs. Enhanced drug delivery efficiency
and improved treatment efficacy have been observed through CNT-based drug delivery systems.
However, some reports have shown that the simple administration of CNTs can reverse MDR in
cancer and enhance chemotherapy efficacy without anticancer agents attached to the surface of the
CNTs.

Objective:

Through an extensive review of previous reports in regard to CNTs and chemotherapy,
this paper aims to identify the various mechanisms of CNTs that inhibit MDR in cancer and enhance
chemotherapy sensitivity.

Results:

CNTs can increase the antitumor effects of chemotherapy agents. CNTs can not only
increase drug delivery accuracy and efficiency but also promote drug uptake, decrease drug efflux,
improve tumor hypoxia conditions, and induce autophagy and apoptosis in tumor cells, which make
the tumor more sensitive to antitumor agents.
Quality of Life and Mental Health of Infertile Women Affected by Endometriosis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Zarbo Cristina , Brugnera Agostino , Secomandi Rita , Candeloro Ilario , Malandrino Chiara , Betto Enrico , Bellia Adriano , Rabboni Massimo , Bondi Emi , Frigerio Luigi , Compare Angelo
Published: April 2019

Objective:

Infertility has a severe impact on quality of life and mental health. This
condition could be exacerbated by the existence of comorbid medical disease, like endometriosis.
The aim of this critical narrative review is the examination of the state of the art about the quality of
life and mental health in infertile women with endometriosis.

Methods:

We performed a rigorous and systematic search for studies on multiple electronic databases.
A total of 6 papers were included in the review and were subjected to interpretative and critical
narrative synthesis.

Results and Discussion:

Major findings are resumed in the following points: (a) infertile women
with endometriosis when compared to infertile ones without endometriosis show higher depression,
stress perception, and anxiety, and lower general quality of life; (b) quality of life specifically related
to infertility is similar among women with and without endometriosis and seems to be related
to personality and beliefs factors; (c) giving birth to a child is related to better mental quality of life;
(d) during assisted reproductive treatment (ART) stimulation, infertile women with endometriosis
have a decrease of dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia; (e) satisfaction of ART is related to the number
of attempts, treatment accomplishment and pregnancy test outcomes. Clinical implications of these
findings and suggestions for future researches were discussed.

Conclusion:

Concluding, it is crucial to assess the psychological factors related to endometriosis and
infertility to reduce the impact of these diseases on quality of life and mental health, provide adequate
support to these patients, improve their satisfaction and increase the change to get pregnant.
A Review on Synthesis and Pharmacological Activity of Coumarins and Their Analogs
Authors: Gouda Moustafa A. , Salem Mohammed A. , Helal Mohamed H.
Published: April 2019

Background:

Coumarins were reported to possess antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, antiplasmodial,
antimalarial, and enzyme inhibitory properties. Furthermore, coumarins are a type of vitamin K
antagonists. Coumarins had been first organized through perkin reaction; besides Knoevenagel condensation
was mentioned as a critical synthetic approach for the synthesis of 3-substituted coumarins.
Moreover, Pechmann, Reformatasky and Witting reactions were stated for the preparation of coumarins.

Methods:

We undertook a structured search of the method of preparation, the chemical reactivity and
biological properties that are associated with coumarins and their analogous.

Results:

Coumarins display a wide range of Src Kinase and cholinesterase inhibitor activities and
application of coumarins as antidiabetic, antipsychotic and antiproliferative agents has been addressed.
Other properties of coumarins such as their role in antitumor, anticancer, and as antioxidants have also
been reviewed.

Conclusion:

This review concluded that coumarin ring was mixed with other rings, a synergistic effect
for each of the ring in their biological activities was obtained, such compounds were exploited to improve
various important molecules which provide scaffolds for drug improvement. These compounds
were used to broaden a special molecule that gives scaffolds for drug improvement.
Concomitant Use of Cotrimoxazole and Atazanavir in HIV-infected Patients: A Therapeutic Drug Monitoring and Pharmacovigilance Based Dual Approach
Authors: Joe Miantezila B. , Roland Landman , Laurent Chouchana , Patrick Lê M. , Sawoo Olivier , Gaston Tona L. , Bruno Eto , Gilles Peytavin , Philippe Pochart
Published: April 2019

Background:

Cotrimoxazole is the main antibiotic used in primary prophylaxis for
opportunistic infections in advanced HIV infection. This drug can inhibit one of the metabolic
pathways of atazanavir (ATV), such as the cytochromes P450 (CYP) 2C8/2C9 and could interfere
with its safety and efficacy.

Objective:

We studied the drug-drug interaction (DDI) between cotrimoxazole and ATV by using
therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) and pharmacovigilance (PV) approaches.

Methods:

We compared a group of patients treated with cotrimoxazole and receiving an ATV-based
regimen to controls. This historical cohort analysis used data from Dat’AIDS in HIV-infected patients
who had at least two lowest plasma concentrations (C-trough) of ATV during their outpatient
follow-up. Likewise, we used the international pharmacovigilance data from VigiBase to evaluate
the notifications of hyperbilirubinemia reported with ATV.

Results:

In the TDM analysis, the two groups of patients (treated with cotrimoxazole and controls)
were almost homogeneous concerning the main baseline features. After at least six months of ATVbased
regimen, there was no significant difference in the safety threshold of the ATV C-trough
[with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 1.4 (95% CI: 0.5 - 4.4)] compared to controls. We observed
similar results with the efficacy thresholds of ATV C-trough. Regarding the PV analysis, there was
no difference in hyperbilirubinemia occurring with ATV when cotrimoxazole was concomitant,
with an adjusted reporting odds ratio (aROR) of 0.9 (95% CI: 0.6 to 1.2).

Conclusion:

This study showed a relevant concomitant use between Cotrimoxazole and ATV based
on TDM and PV approaches.
Science-based Ethnic Bridging in Drug Development; Review of Recent Precedence and Suggested Steps Forward
Authors: van Hoogdalem Ewoud-Jan , Jones III John P. , Constant John , Achira Meguru
Published: April 2019

Background:

Exposure, safety and/or efficacy of drugs are subject to potential differences
between human races or ethnicities, as acknowledged by regulatory guidance and by label
texts of various, but not all approved drugs.

Objective:

The objective of the present review was to assess recent regulatory precedence on drug
use and race or ethnicity, with the goal of identifying opportunities for increasing the informative
value of clinical ethnic or racial bridging in drug development.

Methods:

Recently, (January 2014-July 2018) FDA approved drug product label texts and approval
packages were reviewed for claims, comments and underlying data on use of the product in specific
ethnic or racial groups.

Results:

Among the 266 FDA-approved products, no product with unambiguous race- or ethnicity
specific dosing instructions was retrieved. A small majority (55%) was approved with a claim or
comment on race or ethnicity, and of these, a large majority (87%) was based on population pharmacokinetic
data analysis. Statements were often related to incidence of a genotype for drug metabolizing
enzyme or for other risk factors, or were related to body weight. Absence of clinically
relevant exposure differences were often justified in terms of exposure ratios that notably exceeded
the typical 0.80-1.25 no-effect boundary.

Conclusions:

Recent precedence reflected a pragmatic, descriptive approach of racial or ethnic
bridging, apparently meeting current regulatory expectations, whilst not resulting in strict guidance
to prescribers. We recommend further work on defining the objectives of bridging studies, as well
as criteria for their design and data analysis. Regarding the latter, we recommend investigating the
value of prospectively defined tests for similarity with appropriate follow-up analysis in the case
where the test has failed.
Integration and Querying of Heterogeneous Omics Semantic Annotations for Biomedical and Biomolecular Knowledge Discovery
Authors: Irshad Omer , Khan Muhammad Usman Ghani
Published: April 2019

Background:

Exploring various functional aspects of a biological cell system has been a focused research trend for last many decades. Biologists, scientists and researchers are continuously striving for unveiling the mysteries of these functional aspects to improve the health standards of life. For getting such understanding, astronomically growing, heterogeneous and geographically dispersed omics data needs to be critically analyzed. Currently, omics data is available in different types and formats through various data access interfaces. Applications which require offline and integrated data encounter a lot of data heterogeneity and global dispersion issues.

Objective:

For facilitating especially such applications, heterogeneous data must be collected, integrated and warehoused in such a loosely coupled way so that each molecular entity can computationally be understood independently or in association with other entities within or across the various cellular aspects.

Methods:

In this paper, we propose an omics data integration schema and its corresponding data warehouse system for integrating, warehousing and presenting heterogeneous and geographically dispersed omics entities according to the cellular functional aspects.

Results & Conclusion:

Such aspect-oriented data integration, warehousing and data access interfacing through graphical search, web services and application programing interfaces make our proposed integrated data schema and warehouse system better and useful than other contemporary ones.
Towards Stylistic Consonance in Human Movement Synthesis
Authors: Bradley Elizabeth , Capps David , Luftig Jeffrey , Stuart Joshua M.
Published: April 2019

A common task in dance, martial arts, animation, and many other movement genres is for the character to move in an innovative and yet stylistically consonant fashion. In this paper, we describe two mechanisms for automating this process and evaluate the results with a Turing Test. Our algorithms use the mathematics of chaos to achieve innovation and simple machine-learning techniques to enforce stylistic consonance. Because our goal is stylistic consonance, we used a Turing Test, rather than standard cross-validation-based approaches, to evaluate the results. This test indicated that the novel dance segments generated by these methods are nearing the quality of human-choreographed routines. The test-takers found the human-choreographed pieces to be more aesthetically pleasing than computer-choreographed pieces, but the computer-generated pieces were judged to be equally plausible and not significantly less graceful.
Effectiveness of Dispersal of an Ornithocorous Cactus Myrtillocactus geometrizans (Cactaceae) in a Patchy Environment
Authors: G. Pérez-Villafaña Mónica , Valiente-Banuet Alfonso
Published: April 2019

Effectiveness of seed dispersal by different species that feed on the fruits of Myrtillocactus geometrizans was
evaluated, considering both quantity and quality of dispersal, in a patch of tropical deciduous forest in Zapotitlán de las
Salinas. Effectiveness was estimated to be strongly influenced by the post-foraging movements of the frugivores, leading
us to suggest that the quality component of seed dispersal occupies a central role in the assessment of disperser
effectiveness and to expect that dispersers that stay in the tropical deciduous forest patch after foraging would have
highest effectiveness. Birds were the principal dispersers of M. geometrizans. This was particularly true of Phainopepla
nitens, since this species showed a high fidelity within the tropical deciduous forest. These observations emphasize that it
is important to determine the post-foraging habits of seed dispersers that may move across vegetation patches over the
landscape in order to obtain a complete assessment of their role in Neotropical environments.
Preventing Pathogens Proliferation and Reducing Potential Sources of Nosocomial Infections with Biocidal Textiles in Developing Countries
Authors: Borkow Gadi , Gabbay Jeffrey
Published: April 2019

Nosocomial infections, especially those caused by antibiotic resistant bacteria, are increasing at an alarming
rate over the globe. Unfortunately, standard infection control practices, such as pre-emptive isolation of high-risk patients,
wide and targeted surveillance cultures, and proper ventilation systems are lacking in developing countries mainly due to
insufficient resources.
Patients shed bacteria and contaminate their pyjamas and sheets. The temperature and humidity between the patients and
the bed are appropriate conditions allowing for effective bacterial proliferation. Bed making releases large quantities of
micro-organisms into the air, which contaminate the immediate and non-immediate surroundings. Personnel in contact
with contaminated textiles can also cross-contaminate other surfaces or patients. Thus textiles in hospitals can be an
important source of microbes contributing to endogenous, indirect-contact, and aerosol transmission of nosocomial related
pathogens.
The use of safe wide-spectrum antimicrobial textiles, especially in those textiles that are in close contact with the patients,
may significantly reduce bioburden in clinical settings and consequently reduce the risk of nosocomial infections. This is
of special significance in resource poor developing countries, where wards are overcrowded and population infection
burdens are very high. The use of biocidal textiles is a simple, cost-affordable and feasible measure that may be especially
important in developing countries where essential infection control measures are not implemented.
Insecticidal Bednets for the Fight Against Malaria – Present Time and Near Future
Authors: Skovmand Ole
Published: April 2019

Malaria is to-day a tropical disease that especially has major impact in Subsahelian Africa. The current largescale
campaign against malaria focuses on better first line use of medication and prevention: (1) the combined use of an
Artimisin derivative and one of several synthetic anti-malarials; and (2) the use of insecticidal bednets for transmission
prevention, since the disease is transmitted between humans by female mosquitoes. The change from nets that were to be
treated and often re-treated to factory pre-treated nets about 7 years ago, made the change from a promising research tool
to a major campaign tool. However, once the first line problem of fast disappearance of insecticide treatment was solved,
other problems appeared such as physical net durability and low use rate of bednets among people that do not see only the
advantages of the nets, but also experience the inconvenience of their use in the daily life. Finally, resistance to
insecticides is appearing, probably originating from agricultural use of the same insecticides, but now amplified by the
extensive use of insecticides for malaria control. A call for use of common sense and diversified use of insecticides is
concluded.
Error Rate Performance of Potential Multicarrier Waveforms and Coding Techniques for 5G
Authors: Priya Bhanu , Malhotra Jyoteesh
Published: April 2019

Background:

The wisdom of future wireless communication is clearly highlighted by the
gigabit experience, low latency and the three fold rises in the capacity, compared to the 4th Generation
networks. To meet such an ambitious objective of the 5th Generation communication systems,
efficient use of non-contiguous unused spectrum is required. The panacea to this issue lies in the
symbiosis of multicarrier waveforms and coding schemes.

Methods:

To study the interaction between these two, several multicarrier waveforms like Filtered-
OFDM (F-OFDM), Universal Filtered Multi-Carrier (UFMC) and Weighted Overlap and Add
(WOLA) which act as a powerful contender to win the 5G candidate waveform race, are analyzed in
Low-Density Parity Check Codes (LDPC), Polar and Turbo coded representative Third Generation
Partnership Project (3GPP) channel models under a common numerology framework. This article
dwells upon the error rate and throughput performance of different modulation formats and coding
schemes appropriate for the 5G in a well-defined multi-cellular environment.

Results and Conclusion:

The results have shown that even though many waveforms and coding
techniques may pave the route towards its adoption as a physical layer standard instead of classical
OFDM and convolution codes but no one is a clear conqueror as their selection depends upon the
considered environment and type of traffic.
Indoor Location Tracking Using Time of Arrival Estimation Method
Authors: Sreekumar Nandita , Sebastian Shoney
Published: April 2019

Background & Objective:

Location-based services enable collection of location-oriented
information which finds use in various fields.

Methods:

With its utility found in so many applications, various localization techniques are adopted
to improve these services. One such property of a signal which is used for these estimations is known
as ‘Time of Arrival’ property. The ‘Time of Arrival’ property of a signal is the time difference for a
signal to go from the transmitter to the receiver. The most common application is to navigate through
places, finding or tracking your personal belongings, targeted advertisements by knowing the nearby
popular places and various other services like augmented reality gaming among others.

Results & Conclusion:

Through this paper, we demonstrate a method to track the location of a mobile
sensor node using Trilateration algorithm with the help of Time of Arrival (ToA) property of
signals. The time of arrival of packets at each node is recorded and data collected from the simulation
of a wireless sensor network for this experiment is spread across various distributions to find the optimum
statistical inference.