bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is time a variable like the others in multivariate statistical downscaling and bias correction?
Authors: Robin Yoann , Vrac Mathieu
Published: November 2021

Abstract. Bias correction and statistical downscaling are now regularly applied to climate simulations to make then more usable for impact models and studies. Over the last few years, various methods were developed to account for multivariate – inter-site or inter-variable – properties in addition to more usual univariate ones. Among such methods, temporal properties are either neglected or specifically accounted for, i.e. differently from the other properties. In this study, we propose a new multivariate approach called “time-shifted multivariate bias correction” (TSMBC), which aims to correct the temporal dependency in addition to the other marginal and multivariate aspects. TSMBC relies on considering the initial variables at various times (i.e. lags) as additional variables to be corrected. Hence, temporal dependencies (e.g. auto-correlations) to be corrected are viewed as inter-variable dependencies to be adjusted and an existing multivariate bias correction (MBC) method can then be used to answer this need. This approach is first applied and evaluated on synthetic data from a vector
auto-regressive (VAR) process. In a second evaluation, we work in a “perfect model” context where a regional climate model (RCM) plays the role of the (pseudo-)observations, and where its forcing global climate model (GCM) is the model to be downscaled or bias corrected. For both evaluations, the results show a large reduction of the biases in the temporal properties, while inter-variable and spatial dependence structures are still correctly adjusted. However, increasing the number of lags too much does not necessarily improve the temporal properties, and an overly strong increase in the number of dimensions of the dataset to be corrected can even imply some potential instability in the adjusted and/or downscaled results, calling for a reasoned use of this approach for large datasets.
The Southern Ocean Radiolarian (SO-RAD) dataset: a new compilation of modern radiolarian census data
Authors: Lawler Kelly-Anne , Cortese Giuseppe , Civel-Mazens Matthieu , Bostock Helen , Crosta Xavier , Leventer Amy , Lowe Vikki , Rogers John , Armand Leanne K.
Published: November 2021

Abstract. Radiolarians (holoplanktonic protozoa) preserved in marine sediments are
commonly used as palaeoclimate proxies for reconstructing past Southern
Ocean environments. Generating reconstructions of past climate based on
microfossil abundances, such as radiolarians, requires a spatially and
environmentally comprehensive reference dataset of modern census counts. The
Southern Ocean Radiolarian (SO-RAD) dataset includes census counts for 238
radiolarian taxa from 228 surface sediment samples located in the Atlantic,
Indian, and southwest Pacific sectors of the Southern Ocean. This compilation
is the largest radiolarian census dataset derived from surface sediment
samples in the Southern Ocean. The SO-RAD dataset may be used as a reference
dataset for palaeoceanographic reconstructions, or for studying modern
radiolarian biogeography and species diversity. As well as describing the
data collection and collation, we include recommendations and guidelines for
cleaning and subsetting the data for users unfamiliar with the procedures
typically used by the radiolarian community. The SO-RAD dataset is available to download from https://doi.org/10.1594/PANGAEA.929903 (Lawler et al., 2021).
World Atlas of late Quaternary Foraminiferal Oxygen and Carbon Isotope Ratios
Authors: Mulitza Stefan , Bickert Torsten , Bostock Helen C. , Chiessi Cristiano M. , Donner Barbara , Govin Aline , Harada Naomi , Huang Enqing , Johnstone Heather , Kuhnert Henning , Langner Michael , Lamy Frank , Lembke-Jene Lester , Lisiecki Lorraine , Lynch-Stieglitz Jean , Max Lars , Mohtadi Mahyar , Mollenhauer Gesine , Muglia Juan , Nürnberg Dirk , Paul André , Rühlemann Carsten , Repschläger Janne , Saraswat Rajeev , Schmittner Andreas , Sikes Elisabeth L. , Spielhagen Robert F. , Tiedemann Ralf
Published: November 2021

Abstract. We present a global atlas of downcore foraminiferal oxygen and carbon isotope ratios available at https://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.936747 (Mulitza et al., 2021). The database contains 2,108 published and previously unpublished stable isotope downcore records with 362,067 stable isotope values of various planktonic and benthic species of foraminifera from 1,265 sediment cores. Age constraints are provided by 6,153 uncalibrated radiocarbon ages from 598 (47 %) of the cores. Each stable isotope and radiocarbon series is provided in a separate netCDF file containing fundamental meta data as attributes. The data set can be managed and explored with the free software tool PaleoDataView. The atlas will provide important data for paleoceanographic analyses and compilations, site surveys, or for teaching marine stratigraphy. The database can be updated with new records as they are generated, providing a live ongoing resource into the future.
A deep learning hybrid predictive modeling (HPM) approach for estimating evapotranspiration and ecosystem respiration
Authors: Chen Jiancong , Dafflon Baptiste , Tran Anh Phuong , Falco Nicola , Hubbard Susan S.
Published: November 2021

Abstract. Climate change is reshaping vulnerable ecosystems, leading to
uncertain effects on ecosystem dynamics, including evapotranspiration (ET)
and ecosystem respiration (Reco). However, accurate estimation of ET
and Reco still remains challenging at sparsely monitored watersheds,
where data and field instrumentation are limited. In this study, we
developed a hybrid predictive modeling approach (HPM) that integrates eddy
covariance measurements, physically based model simulation results,
meteorological forcings, and remote-sensing datasets to estimate ET and
Reco in high space–time resolution. HPM relies on a deep learning
algorithm and long short-term memory (LSTM) and requires only air temperature,
precipitation, radiation, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and
soil temperature (when available) as input variables. We tested and
validated HPM estimation results in different climate regions and developed
four use cases to demonstrate the applicability and variability of HPM at
various FLUXNET sites and Rocky Mountain SNOTEL sites in Western North
America. To test the limitations and performance of the HPM approach in mountainous
watersheds, an expanded use case focused on the East River Watershed,
Colorado, USA. The results indicate HPM is capable of identifying
complicated interactions among meteorological forcings, ET, and Reco
variables, as well as providing reliable estimation of ET and Reco
across relevant spatiotemporal scales, even in challenging mountainous
systems. The study documents that HPM increases our capability to estimate
ET and Reco and enhances process understanding at sparsely monitored
watersheds.
Biometry and taxonomy of Adriatic Ammonia species from Bellaria–Igea Marina (Italy)
Authors: Schönfeld Joachim , Beccari Valentina , Schmidt Sarina , Spezzaferri Silvia
Published: November 2021

Abstract. Living Ammonia species and an inventory of dead assemblages from Adriatic subtidal, nearshore environments were investigated at four stations off Bellaria, Italy. Ammonia falsobeccarii, Ammonia parkinsoniana, Ammonia tepida, and Ammonia veneta were recognized in the living (rose-bengal-stained) fauna, and Ammonia bellaria n. sp. is described herein for the first time. Ammonia beccarii was only found in the dead assemblage. The biometry of 368 living individuals was analysed by using light microscopic and scanning electron microscopic images of three aspects. A total of 15 numerical and 8 qualitative parameters were measured and assessed, 5 of which were recognized to be prone to a certain subjectivity of the observer. The accuracy of numerical data as revealed by the mean residuals of parallel measurements by different observers ranged from 0.5 % to 5.5 %. The results indicated a high degree of intraspecific variability. The test sizes of the individual species were log-normally distributed and varied among the stations. Parameters not related to the growth of the individuals, i.e. flatness of the tests, dimensions of the second-youngest chamber, proloculus, umbilical and pore diameter, sinistral–dextral coiling, and umbilical boss size, were recognized as being species-distinctive in combination. They may well supplement qualitative criteria that were commonly used for species discrimination such as a lobate outline, a subacute or rounded peripheral margin, or the degree of ornamentation on the spiral and umbilical sides. The averages of the measured parameters were often lower than the range of previously published values, mainly because the latter were retrieved from a few adult specimens and not from the whole assemblage as in the present approach. We conclude that the unprecedented high proportions of Ammonia beccarii in the northern Adriatic may well be artificial. A robust species identification without genetic analyses is possible by considering designated biometric parameters. This approach is also applicable to earlier literature data, and their re-assessment is critical for a correct denomination of recent genotypes.
Transformation of n-alkanes from plant to soil: a review
Authors: Thomas Carrie L. , Jansen Boris , van Loon E. Emiel , Wiesenberg Guido L. B.
Published: November 2021

Abstract. Despite the importance of soil organic matter (SOM) in
the global carbon cycle, there remain many open questions regarding its
formation and preservation. The study of individual organic compound classes
that make up SOM, such as lipid biomarkers including n-alkanes, can provide
insight into the cycling of bulk SOM. While studies of lipid biomarkers,
particularly n-alkanes, have increased in number in the past few decades,
only a limited number have focused on the transformation of these compounds
following deposition in soil archives. We performed a systematic review to
consolidate the available information on plant-derived n-alkanes and their
transformation from plant to soil. Our major findings were (1) a nearly
ubiquitous trend of decreased total concentration of n-alkanes either with
time in litterbag experiments or with depth in open plant–soil systems and (2) preferential degradation of odd-chain length and shorter chain length n-alkanes represented by a decrease in either carbon preference index (CPI) or odd-over-even predominance (OEP) with depth, indicating degradation of
the n-alkane signal or a shift in vegetation composition over time. The
review also highlighted a lack of data transparency and standardization
across studies of lipid biomarkers, making analysis and synthesis of
published data time-consuming and difficult. We recommend that the community
move towards more uniform and systematic reporting of biomarker data.
Furthermore, as the number of studies examining the complete
leaf–litter–soil continuum is very limited as well as unevenly distributed over geographical regions, climate zones, and soil types, future data collection should focus on underrepresented areas as well as quantifying the
transformation of n-alkanes through the complete continuum from plant to soil.
Seasonal evolution of Antarctic supraglacial lakes in 2015–2021 and links to environmental controls
Authors: Dirscherl Mariel C. , Dietz Andreas J. , Kuenzer Claudia
Published: November 2021

Abstract. Supraglacial meltwater accumulation on ice shelves may have important implications for future sea level rise. Despite recent progress in the understanding of Antarctic surface hydrology, potential influences on ice shelf stability as well as links to environmental drivers remain poorly constrained. In this study, we employ state-of-the-art machine learning on Sentinel-1 synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and optical Sentinel-2 satellite imagery to provide new insight into the inter-annual and intra-annual evolution of surface hydrological features across six major Antarctic Peninsula and East Antarctic ice shelves. For the first time, we produce a high-resolution record of supraglacial lake extent dynamics for the period 2015–2021 at unprecedented 10 m spatial resolution and bi-weekly
temporal scale. Through synergetic use of optical and SAR data, we obtain a
more complete mapping record also enabling the delineation of buried lakes.
Our results for Antarctic Peninsula ice shelves reveal below-average
meltwater ponding during most of melting seasons 2015–2018 and above-average meltwater ponding throughout summer 2019–2020 and early 2020–2021
considering years 2015–2021 as a reference period. Meltwater ponding on
investigated East Antarctic ice shelves was far more variable, with above-average lake extents during most 2016–2019 melting seasons and below-average lake extents during 2020–2021, considering the reference interval 2016–2021. This study is the first to investigate relationships with climate drivers both spatially and temporally including time lag analysis. The results indicate that supraglacial lake formation in 2015–2021 is coupled to the complex interplay of local, regional and large-scale environmental drivers with similar driving factors over both ice sheet regions. In particular, varying air temperature, solar radiation and wind conditions influenced supraglacial lake formation over all six ice shelves despite strong local to regional discrepancies, as revealed through pixel-based correlation analysis. Furthermore, regional climatic conditions were shown to be influenced by Southern Hemisphere atmospheric modes showing large-scale impacts on the spatio-temporal evolution of supraglacial lakes as well as on above- or below-average meltwater ponding with respect to the period 2015–2021. Finally, the local glaciological setting, including melt–albedo feedbacks and the firn air content, was revealed to strongly influence supraglacial lake distribution. Recent increases in Antarctic Peninsula surface ponding point towards a further reduction in the firn air content, implying an increased risk for ponding and hydrofracture. In addition, lateral meltwater transport was observed over both Antarctic regions with similar implications for future ice shelf stability.
Exploring the role of snow metamorphism on the isotopic composition of the surface snow at EastGRIP
Authors: Harris Stuart Romilly , Faber Anne-Katrine , Wahl Sonja , Hörhold Maria , Kipfstuhl Sepp , Vasskog Kristian , Behrens Melanie , Zuhr Alexandra , Steen-Larsen Hans Christian
Published: November 2021

Abstract. Stable water isotopes from polar ice cores are invaluable high-resolution climate proxy records. Recent studies have aimed to improve knowledge of how the climate signal is stored in the water isotope record by addressing the influence of post-depositional processes on the surface snow isotopic composition. In this study, the relationship between changes in surface snow microstructure after precipitation/deposition events and water isotopes is explored using measurements of snow specific surface area (SSA). Continuous daily SSA measurements from the East Greenland Ice Core Project site (EastGRIP) situated in the accumulation zone of the Greenland Ice Sheet during the summer seasons of 2017, 2018 and 2019 are used to develop an empirical decay model to describe events of rapid decrease in SSA, driven predominantly by vapour diffusion in the pore space and atmospheric vapour exchange. The SSA decay model is described by the exponential equation SSA(t) = (SSA0 −26.8) e−0.54t + 26.8. The model performance is optimal for daily mean values of surface temperature in the range 0 °C to −25 °C and wind speed < 6 m s−1. The findings from the SSA analysis are used to explore the influence of surface snow metamorphism on altering the isotopic composition of surface snow. It is found that rapid SSA decay events correspond to decreases in d-excess over a 2-day period in 72 % of the samples. Detailed studies using Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) analysis revealed a coherence between the dominant mode of variance of SSA and d-excess during periods of low spatial variability of surface snow over the sampling transect, suggesting that processes driving change in SSA also influence d-excess. Our findings highlight the need for future studies to decouple the processes driving surface snow metamorphism in order to quantify the fractionation effect of individual processes on the snow isotopic composition.
Experimental investigation of Mini Gurney Flaps in combination with vortex generators for improved wind turbine blade performance
Authors: Alber Jörg , Manolesos Marinos , Weinzierl-Dlugosch Guido , Fischer Johannes , Schönmeier Alexander , Nayeri Christian Navid , Paschereit Christian Oliver , Twele Joachim , Fortmann Jens , Melani Pier Francesco , Bianchini Alessandro
Published: November 2021

Abstract. This wind tunnel study investigates the aerodynamic effects of Mini Gurney flaps (MGFs) and their combination with vortex generators (VGs) on the performance of airfoils and wind turbine rotor blades. VGs are installed on the suction side aiming at stall delay and increased maximum lift. MGFs are thin angle profiles that are attached at the trailing edge in order to increase lift at pre-stall operation. The implementation of both these passive flow control devices is accompanied by a certain drag penalty. The wind tunnel tests are conducted at the Hermann- Föttinger Institut of the Technische Universität Berlin. Lift is determined with a force balance and drag with a wake rake for static angles of attack from −5° to 17° at a constant Reynolds number of 1.5 million. The impact of different MGF heights including 0.25 %, 0.5 % and 1.0 % and an uniform VG height of 1.1 % of the chord length are tested on three airfoils that are characteristic for different sections of large rotor blades. Furthermore, the clean and the tripped baseline cases are considered. In the latter, leading edge transition is forced by means of Zig Zag (ZZ) turbulator tape. The preferred configurations are the smallest MGF on the NACA63(3)618 and the AH93W174 (mid to tip blade region) and the medium sized MGF combined with VGs on the DU97W300 (root to mid region). Next, the experimental lift and drag polar data is imported into the software QBlade in order to design a generic rotor blade. The blade performance is simulated with and without the add-ons based on two case studies. In the first case, the retrofit application on an existing blade mitigates the adverse effects of the ZZ tape. Stall is delayed and the aerodynamic efficiency is partly recovered leading to an improvement of the power curve. In the second case, the new design application allows for the design of a more slender blade while maintaining the power output. Moreover, the alternative blade appears to be more resistant against forced leading edge transition.
EXPERT COUNCIL UNDER THE COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS IN THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION – SOCIAL PROBLEMS OF FEDERAL DISTRICTS AND REGIONS
Authors: Admaev Oleg Vasilyevich
Published: November 2021

The Institute of the Commissioner for Human Rights in the Russian Federation includes an Expert Council. The Expert Council can operate throughout the entire territory of the Russian Federation. Regional Commissioners for Human Rights, creating territorial expert councils, supplement the institution of the Commissioner for Human Rights in the Russian Federation with new regional components.
Advances in Transcatheter Aortic Valve Therapy in Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease: Insight into Patient Selection, Management, and Future Directions
Authors:   Department of Cardiology - University Campus BioMedico of Rome, Italy, Cammalleri Valeria , Ussia Gianpaolo ,   Department of Cardiology - University Campus BioMedico of Rome, Italy, Lusini Mario ,   Department of Cardiology - University Campus BioMedico of Rome, Italy, Mastroianni Ciro ,   Department of Cardiology - University Campus BioMedico of Rome, Italy, Nappi Francesco ,   Centre Cardiologique du Nord St. Denis, France, Chello Massimo ,   Department of Cardiology - University Campus BioMedico of Rome, Italy
Published: November 2021

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) disease is the most common congenital abnormality and is characterized by a risk of premature aortic valve disease, predominantly aortic stenosis. Surgery remains the treatment of choice for patients with symptomatic BAV disease, but, in patients who are unsuitable for surgical aortic valve replacement, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is currently used as an alternative to surgery, although there is no official recommendation for their management, since BAV patients with severe aortic stenosis have been excluded from the major TAVR randomized clinical trials. Patients with BAV stenosis present anatomic challenges for treatment with TAVR. The BAV annulus often has an elliptical shape and is larger than the tricuspid valve, and is more likely to exhibit severe eccentric calcification. In addition, BAV is often associated with a dilated, horizontal ascending aorta, and effaced sinuses. The calcified raphe may also place differential stress on the expansion of the transcatheter valve, increasing the risk of suboptimal positioning and consequently the risk of paravalvular leakage, new pacemaker implantation, new-onset left bundle branch block, and annular rupture. Moreover, coronary obstruction may occur when leaflet fusion results in a longer leaflet. Although some of these challenges have been successfully overcome using new-generation devices, the complication rate is still relatively high and requires a deeper understanding of the patient’s specific complex and variable anatomy. Selection of the type and size of the transcatheter valve according to the patient’s individual anatomy is critical to achieving successful results. Therefore, given the increasing frequency of BAV stenosis in younger patients, and the worldwide expansion in the application of TAVR in younger and lower surgical-risk patients, preprocedural multimodality imaging involving CT scan and three-dimensional echocardiography is mandatory to understand the complex and variable anatomy of BAV disease and improve both procedural results and short- and long-term outcomes in these patients.
Delayed Operation as a Major Risk Factor for Mortality Among Elderly Patients with Ventral Hernia Admitted Emergently: An Analysis of 33,700 Elderly Patients
Authors:   New York Medical College, School of Medicine and Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY, Latifi Rifat , Levy Lior ,   New York Medical College, School of Medicine and Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY, Reddy Medha ,   New York Medical College, School of Medicine and Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY, Okumura Kenji ,   New York Medical College, School of Medicine and Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY, Smiley Abbas ,   New York Medical College, School of Medicine and Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY
Published: November 2021

Background: Elderly patients admitted emergently for ventral hernia may have high rates of complications, including morbidity and mortality. The goal of this study was to retrospectively assess risk factors for in-hospital mortality for elderly patients admitted emergently with a primary diagnosis of ventral hernia. Methods: Elderly patients with ventral hernia that required emergency admission were analyzed using the National Inpatient Sample database, 2005-2014. Demographics, clinical data, and outcomes were collected. The relationship between mortality and the predictors was assessed using a stratified analysis, multivariable logistic regression model, and multivariable generalized additive model. Results: A total of 33,700 elderly patients were analyzed. The mean (SD) age for males and females was 75 (7.25) and 76.25 (7.75) years, respectively (p<0.001). Approximately 70% of the patients were females. The mean (SD) hospital length of stay (HLOS) was 6.3 (6.5) and 11.6 (13.7) days in survived vs. deceased patients (p<0.001), respectively. Gangrene was present in 1.5% of survivors vs. 5.6% of deceased (p<0.001) patients. Intestinal obstruction was observed in 78% of survivors vs. 88% of deceased patients (p<0.001). Of the 8,554 cases managed non-operatively, 2.1% died. In contrast, in the 25,163 patients who were operated upon, the mortality rate was 2.9%. The mean (SD) HLOS was 7.39 (7.41) days in patients who had an operation vs. 3.82 (3.48) days in those who did not (p<0.0001). Time to operation was 1.12 (1.97) days in survivors vs. 1.81 (3.02) days in deceased patients (p<0.001). In the final multivariable logistic regression model for patients who underwent an operation, delayed operation, elderly male, frailty, invasive diagnostic procedures and presence of gangrene or obstruction were the main risk factors for mortality. In the final model for patients who did not have an operation, age, frailty, presence of gangrene or obstruction and HLOS were the main risk factors for mortality. Conclusion: A delayed operation in elderly males and frail patients with intestinal obstruction or gangrene admitted emergently due to ventral hernia significantly increases mortality in this setting.
Investigation of Creep Behavior of CNT Reinforced Ti6Al4V Under Dynamic Loads
Authors: Ismail Topcu Ismail Topcu , Burcu Nilg n etiner Burcu Nilg n etiner , Arif N G ll o lu and zkan G lsoy Arif N G ll o lu and zkan G lsoy
Published: November 2021

This study investigates the effects of addition of Carbon nanotube (CNT) at different volume ratios (0.5- 5%) into Ti6Al4V matrix by mechanical alloying in terms of the density, microstructure, hardness and creep under dynamic load. As a result of the good bonding of carbon nanotubes powders with the main matrix, Ti-6Al-4V/CNT composites have experienced change both in microstructure and mechanical properties (such as hardness, density) and, correspondingly, qualitatively creep behaviour of Ti-6Al - 4V matrix alloy has been improved compared to the lean one. The density of CNT reinforced Ti6Al4V composites sintered at 1300and#176;C for 3h decreases with increasing CNT content. The hardness tests indicated that the hardness of composites increased with CNT addition. In addition, although creep strain is decreased continually with CNT content until 5%, creep life increased with increasing CNT content until 4% of CNT but decreased above 4%. After sintering at 1300 and#176;C under vacuum for 3 hours the density of the composite material reached to a level of 98.5 %, the microhardness to 538 HV and the creep behaviour was improved. The characterization of Ti6Al4V / CNT composites after mechanical alloying was carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive x-rays spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods.

Although Ti–6Al–4V alloys are used as biomaterial, this study aimed at using MWCNTs containing Ti-6Al-4V composites at high temperature applications. Because MWCNTs reinforced Ti-6Al-4V composites are cheaper and have lower weight than the other materials used in this kind of applications.
Optimization and Modeling of Photooxidative Process for the Degradation of Reactive Red223
Authors: Abdul Rauf Shah Abdul Rauf Shah , Hajira Tahir and Tahira Yasmeen Hajira Tahir and Tahira Yasmeen
Published: November 2021

The optimization of the photooxidative process was carried out with the application of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) to degrade Reactive Red 223 (RR223) dye. Operational parameters of U.V/H2O2 process such as irradiation time, initial [dye], initial [H2O2] and distance between U.V lamp and the solution were optimized with Central Composite Design (CCD). Correlation coefficient value of the CCD was obtained to be 79 %, showing the correctness of the model and the successful utilization of CCD in getting desired levels of the factors of the process. Moreover, the optimum points were located with the graphical surface and contour plots. At the optimal conditions, the photooxidative removal of the color and COD were observed to be 68%, 81%, respectively. Furthermore, the pseudo-second order kinetic was guiding the removal of the dye in the process. Subsequently, the electrical energy consumption was estimated in term of the merit electrical energy per order (EEO). The figure of merit of the process was found to be 252 kWhm−3 order−1. The cost of the treatment was also calculated to be US$ 25/m3.
Synthesis, Structure and Properties of Two-Dimensional Coordination Polymer Based on 3,5-di(benzimidazol-1-yl)pyridine
Authors: Guo Jun Wu Guo Jun Wu
Published: November 2021

[Cu(L)(AIP)·1.5H2O]n (1) [L= 3,5-di(benzimidazol-1-yl)pyridine, H2AIP= 5-aminoisophthalic acid] was prepared by the solvothermal reaction, which was characterized by single-crystal X–ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. 1 exhibits an infinite two dimensional [Cu(AIP)]n sheet parallel to (0 1 1) crystal plane. Furthermore, complex 1 displays good photocatalytic degradation of methyl blue (MB).
Discrimination of Mungbean Cultivars/Varieties Based on Minor Saccharides Composition by HPLC Coupled with Multivariate Statistical Analysis
Authors: Mudasir Majeed Mudasir Majeed , Abdullah Ijaz Hussain Abdullah Ijaz Hussain , Shahzad Ali Shahid Chatha Shahzad Ali Shahid Chatha , Ghulam Mustafa Kamal and Qasim Ali Ghulam Mustafa Kamal and Qasim Ali
Published: November 2021

Present study reports the potential use of HPLC coupled with principle component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA), for differentiation of approved mungbean variety from the promising lines based on minor saccharides profiles. A total of 48 mungbean samples from one approved variety and seven promising lines were analyzed for minor saccharides using HPLC and multivariate statistical analysis. PCA showed a clear separation among the classes. PLSDA was conducted to extract the variables that were responsible for the separation of mungbean approved variety from the lines. Maltoheptaose, maltohexaose, maltopentaose, maltotretraose, maltitol, maltose, mannitole, betaine varied significantly while stachyose, raffinose, sucrose, lectitol, dulcitol, xylitol, galactose showed non-significant differences. Maltoheptaose, maltohexaose, maltotretraose, maltitol, mannitole and galactose were found as the most abundant compounds while stachyose, raffinose, sucrose, lectitol and betaine were found less abundant in all lines and approved variety of V. radiata. The study highlights metabolic variation among mungbean variety and lines for minor saccharides profiles and its usefulness for consumers to choose for their desired variety or line as well as for breeders to look into the genetic factors responsible for this variation.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Hydroxymethyl Tetramides as Flow Improvers for Crude Oil
Authors: Xuefan Gu Xuefan Gu , Peng Wang Peng Wang , Zhen Guo Zhen Guo , Weichao Du Weichao Du , Sanbao Dong Sanbao Dong
Published: November 2021

In this work, a series of hydroxymethyl tetramide (HMTEA) was synthesized from vegetable oil, triacetylenetetramine and hexamethylenetetramine, which was evaluated as viscosity reducer and pour point depressor for crude oil. The results showed that HMTE has a good viscosity reduction effect on the crude oil from Yanchang Oilfield, with the highest viscosity reduction rate of 93%. The highest pour point reduction depression was achieved as 6.5℃. Differential scanning calorimetry and paraffin crystal morphology characterization were conducted on the crude oil to elucidate the mechanism of viscosity reduction and pour point depression.
Effect of pH and Dodecylamine Concentration on the Properties of Dodecylamine Two-Phase foam
Authors: Weimin Xie Weimin Xie , Dongsheng He Dongsheng He , Shuang Liu Shuang Liu , Fei Chen Fei Chen , Hongqiang Li Hongqiang Li
Published: November 2021

Over-stabilized foam has always been a problem that plagues the dodecylamine (DDA) flotation system. In this study, a new device, “automatic foam analyzer”, was successfully used to characterize the behavior of foam in DDA solution. The effects of pH and DDA dosage on the foam properties were investigated from four aspects: bubble diffusion capacity, Bikerman coefficient, half-life period and solution conductivity, and the mechanism of pH and DDA concentration on foam properties was analyzed by solution chemistry and surface tension of DDA, then the change process of foam structure was deduced. The results showed that the foaming property and stability of DDA bubbles were the best at pH=8. Simultaneously, with the increase of DDA dosage, the foaming property of bubbles was enhanced, the half-life was prolonged, and the foam stability was also improved.
Development of Rapid Colorimetric Assay for Detection of Gluconic Acid Using Iron(Ⅱ) and Indigo Carmine
Authors: Yifeng Lan Yifeng Lan , Lixiang Zuo Lixiang Zuo , Yangyang Zhou Yangyang Zhou , Yanli Wei and Chuan Dong Yanli Wei and Chuan Dong
Published: November 2021

In this work, a simple and rapid spectrophotometric method, which is based on the fact that Iron(Ⅱ) -gluconic acid complex as a kind of reducing agent deterioration of indigo carmine dyes, was developed to detect gluconic acid in food. Under the optimal experimental condition, a linear range of 3.6 M to 900 M was obtained for gluconic acid with a limit of detection of 1.1 μM. The colorimetric method was rapid and robust with a low cost and can be applied to gluconic acid detection in food samples.
Application of UV-Visible Spectrophotometric Method for the Estimation of Ciprofloxacin HCl and Levofloxacin Hemihydrate (Antibiotics) in Marketed Drugs
Authors: Mir Munsif Ali Talpur Mir Munsif Ali Talpur , Tajnees Pirzada and Muhammad Afzal Arain Tajnees Pirzada and Muhammad Afzal Arain
Published: November 2021

Ciprofloxacin HCl, 1-Cyclopropyl-6-fluoro-4-oxo-7-(piperazin1-yl)-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxylic acid, is a synthetic broad antibacterial compound belonging to the group of fluoroquinolones which is antimicrobial drug act through the inhibition of DNA-gyrase, an enzyme that is critical to bacterial chromosome replication. It is used in a wide range of infections of the urinary, respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, as well as in skin structure and ocular infections. Levofloxacin Hemihydrate is a fluoroquinolone, has a broad-spectrum antibiotic activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and used in respiratory and urinary tract infections. Various Pakistani branded antibiotic drug samples containing Ciprofloxacin HCl and Levofloxacin Hemihydrate were collected from local market and their working standards from the material suppliers of Karachi city. Samples were analyzed by using UV-Vis spectrophotometer. Then the method was validated by linearity, accuracy, precision (reproducibility, intermediate precision) and range which suggested that method is appropriate and proper to determine the potency of these various brands of Ciprofloxacin HCl and Levofloxacin Hemihydrate. The analytical data suggest that the drug samples analyzed were within the limit of the Pharmacopeia requirement and criteria.
Evaluation of Antibacterial Potential of New Acid Dyes Based on Substituted Aryl Amines and Amino Hydroxy Sulfonic Acid
Authors: Zeeshan Akhtar Zeeshan Akhtar , Syed Imran Ali Syed Imran Ali , Naseem Abbas Naseem Abbas , Muhammad Ali Muhammad Ali , Muhammad Yasir Khan Muhammad Yasir Khan , Syed Adnan Hasan Shadab Ahmed Syed Adnan Hasan Shadab Ahmed , Suryyia Manzoor and Zubala Lutfi Suryyia Manzoor and Zubala Lutfi
Published: November 2021

Six newly synthesized acid dye derivatives were evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial activity against four (04) Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus lugdunensis, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Bacillus subtilis) and six (06) Gram negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Citrobacter freundii, Klebsiella pneumoniae,Pseudomonas fluorescens and Shigella sonnei) bacterial strains. The dyes were synthesized using substituted aryl amines and substituted amino hydroxy sulfonic acid as diazo and coupling components, respectively. The antimicrobial activity was explored by Agar-Well Diffusion method using 100 mg/ml dye concentration. The results demonstrated that the dyes possess varying degrees of activities against the bacterial strains tested and the structure of the dye molecules was found to have considerable influence on their antimicrobial activity.
Applications, Challenges and Development of Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology
Authors: Ling Zhang Ling Zhang
Published: November 2021

Nanomaterials and nanotechnology have been rapidly developed and widely applied in antimicrobial, biosensors, nanomedicine, nano-electronic technology, reinforcement, water treatment, and so on. However, there are also many problems and challenges during using and developing nanomaterials and nanotechnology. Are they secure enough for the health of human beings? Do they cause the environmental pollution? And how can we sustainably develop nanomaterial and nanotechnology? In this review, we introduced the applications, potential threats and hazards, and development and prospect of nanomaterial and nanotechnology.
SYNTHESIS OF NEW SUBSTITUTED PROCAINE HYDROCHLORIDE COMPOUNDS AND THEIR USE IN SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC DETERMINATION OF TETRACYCLINE HYDROCHLORIDE THROUGH DIAZOTIZATION-COUPLING REACTIONS
Authors: Al-WARD Hind Sadiq , AL-ABACHI Mouayed Qassssim , AHMED Mohammed Rifaat
Published: November 2021

Background: Tetracycline is one of the most important antibiotics. It is used to treat many different bacterial infections. It is often used in treating severe acne, or sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia. In some cases, tetracycline is used when penicillin or another antibiotic cannot be used to treat serious infections such as the ones caused by Bacillus anthracis, Listeria, Clostridium, Actinomyces. Aim: synthesized a new novel reagent used to determine TCH spectrophotometrically by using diazonium and coupling reaction. Methods: Four new substituted procaine derivatives were prepared by simple organic methods using aniline derivatives. A spectrophotometric approach was established for the micro-determination of TCH. The stoichiometry was investigated using mole ratio and continuous variation methods, and the stability constant was also estimated. The ΔG, ΔH, and ΔS were determined as thermodynamic parameters for evaluating the effect of temperature on the reaction. Results: Substituted procaine derivatives were prepared, and o-hydroxy procaine seems to be the best reagent used to determine TCH by diazotization and coupling reaction. The result was a yellow water-soluble dye with a maximum absorbance of 380 nm. The reaction conditions were studied and optimized. Beers law was obeyed over a concentration range (2.5–50) μg.mL-1 for TCH. The molar absorptivity was (14.4669.103) L.mol-1.cm-1, and the detection limit was (0.5052) μg.mL-1. The stoichiometry of the formed product was found 1:1 (o-hydroxyprocaine: TCH). The stability constant indicated that the product formed was stable, and the thermodynamic parameters showed that the diazonium salt reaction was preferred to occur at a low temperature. Conclusions: a simple, accurate, and fast method was developed to determine TCH in pure form and pharmaceuticals by coupling the TCH with a newly synthesized procaine derivative reagent (o-hydroxy procaine) in a basic medium.
STRATEGIC PLAN TO STRENGTHEN RESEARCH AS A MECHANISM TO INCREASE MEANINGFUL TRAINING BASED ON FORMATIVE RESEARCH
Authors: MARTINEZ Fredy
Published: November 2021

Background: The academic activity of students and professors constitutes the basis of professional training in engineering. Training in electrical engineering has always been of less interest to university students compared to other professional training programs. However, in recent years, this interest has decreased beyond previous trends, an effect detected in all engineering programs, which has been accelerated by the distance learning mechanisms adopted in the face of the spread of COVID-19. Therefore, among the incentive mechanisms for young people, the promotion of research activity has been included. This study describes the model proposed within the Electrical Technology and Engineering programs of the Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas as a distinctive element of its research training strategy. Aims: To offer alternatives tending to promote the current research activities of the research groups of the electrical engineering area of the Universidad Distrital (Colombia) to increase the performance of the formative research processes, in particular with motivational aspects, development of critical awareness, and strengthening of resilience. Methods: A strategic plan was developed to increase the activity related to research processes within the academic program. It was based on the dynamics shown in the last seven years, and a set of strategies aimed at strengthening and encouraging this trend was projected for the next seven years. Results and Discussion: This strategic plan is expected to increase academic activity, particularly related to scientific production indicators. Projections for the next seven years indicate an increase in student participation related to scientific publications, the population in research groups, and project development. Conclusions: The proposed scheme corresponds to a model adjusted to higher education institutions with student populations of low academic strata and under national standards that prioritize quality in education from the point of view of both physical and human resources, particularly those that promote critical awareness of local and national reality. In this sense, the proposed plan is highly relevant and promotes one of the strengths identified in the academic program.
Meta-analysis on the role of exercise in the treatment of constipation
Authors: Weiser Thomas , Landes Sabine
Published: November 2021

Current guidelines recommend life-style adjustment (including more exercise) as the first measure for treating constipation. This meta-analysis investigated the influence of exercise therapy on the symptoms of patients with chronic constipation. About half of participants in a exercise programme lasting several weeks experienced a positive effect on their symptoms. Studies with the laxatives bisacodyl and sodium picosulfate showed that these generally alleviated symptoms even within the first day of treatment.
La pagina gialla
Authors: Ventura Alessandro
Published: November 2021

Non di solo Covid uccide il Covid… - “Deve avere qualcosa” - Atresia biliare: guai sbagliare - È ora di cambiare - Anoressia nervosa, osteoporosi ed estrogenoterapia - Il circo dei… probiotici
Vitamina D e rachitismo carenziale
Authors: Agrusti Anna , Contorno Sarah , Bruno Irene , Gortani Giulia , Barbi Egidio
Published: November 2021

Mouhamed, a 7-year-old boy of African origin, presented with progressive fatigue and difficulty in walking. He was never treated with vitamin D supplementation. The evaluation of his calcium-phosphorus metabolism revealed a myopathy related to severe rickets. Therefore, he was treated with high-dose vitamin D3 and myopathy and fatigue progressively resolved. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the calcium-phosphorus metabolism, by acting on enterocytes, osteoclasts and renal tubule. Vitamin D deficiency is defined when the 25OHD value is less than 20 ng/ml. In order to guarantee the assumption of the minimum daily dose of vitamin D, it is recommended to start vitamin D3 supplementation in all newborns and infants in their first year of life, regardless of the feeding modality. Exposure to the sun is essential for the activation of vitamin D, so dark-skinned children and mothers or those little exposed to the sun should start vitamin D3 supplementation. Vitamin D3 should also be supplemented in children with cerebral palsy and in patients treated with anti-epileptic drugs. Other conditions at risk of vitamin D deficiency are inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, obesity, liver failure, cholestasis and vegetarian or vegan diets. Classic signs of rickets are the rickety rosary, the widening of the wrist and the arching of the tibia. Severe hypocalcaemia secondary to vitamin D deficiency can occur with dilated cardiomyopathy or convulsions, especially in dark-skinned infants. Vitamin D deficiency should be considered in children with progressive myopathy or muscular weakness, especially in dark-skinned ones or in those poorly exposed to the sun for cultural or religious reasons.
Rachitismo ipofosforemico X-linked
Authors: Lucchetti Laura , Emma Francesco , Fintini Danilo , Cappa Marco
Published: November 2021

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is an X-linked disorder with dominant penetration, caused by mutations in the PHEX gene, which encodes for an endopeptidase that is predominantly expressed in osteoblasts, osteocytes and odontoblasts. PHEX mutations cause increased production of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) that in turn leads to hypophosphatemia by causing inhibition of the renal phosphate reabsorption and of the synthesis of active 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. In children XLH is characterised by rickets, bone pain, physical dysfunction, impaired growth, disproportionate short stature, lowerlimb deformities, pathological fractures, dental malposition and dental abscesses. Although phenotype may be variable in severity, early diagnosis and treatment are critical to improve outcome. Laboratory tests show hypophosphatemia associated with hyperphosphaturia and elevated alkaline phosphatase, while parathormone and calcium levels are normal. For decades, patients have been treated with conventional therapy, including active vitamin D supplementation and fractionated daily doses of oral phosphate salts. However, these therapies rarely normalise the phenotype. More recently, burosumab, a recombinant human IgG1 monoclonal antibody against FGF-23, has been introduced for the treatment of XLH. In phase 2 trials, burosumab has been shown to improve significantly clinical symptoms, as well as biological and radiological signs of rickets.
Recreational diving for women and children
Authors: Krzyżak Jarosław
Published: November 2021

Nurkowania amatorskie w wymiarze turystyczno‑sportowym są jedną z aktywności zyskujących coraz większą popularność w Polsce i na świecie. Jeszcze kilkadziesiąt lat temu nurkowania były głównie domeną zdrowych mężczyzn w wieku produkcyjnym, realizujących zadania podwodne w ramach pracy zawodowej. Obecnie w akwenach wodnych zanurzają się przedstawiciele obu płci, we wszystkich przedziałach wiekowych. Coraz więcej amatorów nurkowania spotyka się wśród kobiet i dzieci. Aktywności podwodne wymagają dobrego stanu zdrowia i określenia jasnych przeciwwskazań zdrowotnych, którymi mogą być zarówno choroby, jak i stany fizjologiczne (np. ciąża). W pracy przedstawiono zagadnienia związane z nurkowaniem rekreacyjnym kobiet i dzieci z uwzględnieniem aspektów fizjologicznych, psychologicznych, kwalifikacji oraz przeciwwskazań do nurkowania.