bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Out-of-phase cyclical sediment supply: A potential causal mechanism for generating stratigraphic asymmetry and explaining sequence stratigraphic spatial variability
Authors: Ainsworth R. Bruce , Vonk Adam J. , Wellington Paul , Paumard Victorien 
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACTAlthough acknowledged to be a simplification, the rate of sediment supply is usually assumed to be constant in sequence stratigraphic interpretations of clastic shelf systems. The simplified assumption taken in this work is that sediment supply can be represented by sine curves linked to climate changes driven by Milankovitch cycles. Three orders of sediment supply sine curves (amplitude and frequency scaled to order) are convolved with three orders of Milankovitch-forced eustatic sea-level sine curves and a constant rate of subsidence to generate curves for the ratio of rate of accommodation development to rate of sediment supply (δ A /δ S ). The relative-sea-level curve is then held constant whilst sediment supply is systematically changed from being constant to being cyclical across the three orders of Milankovitch frequencies and being in-phase, and out-of-phase with the eustatic cycles by 90°, 180°, and 270°. For each scenario, stratal architecture is then represented for sixty consecutive parasequences (fifth-order, regressive–transgressive shelf transit cycles) by converting the δ A /δ S curves into pseudo thickness / sandstone fraction plots (TSF plots). Constant sediment supply, in-phase sediment supply, and 180°-out-of-phase sediment supply produce symmetrical stratal geometries with equal periods of progradation, aggradation, and retrogradation. When sediment-supply cycles are 90°-out-of-phase (supply peak occurs later than sea-level peak), stratal geometries are asymmetrical with progradational architectures being dominant. When sediment-supply cycles are 270°-out-of-phase (supply peak occurs earlier than sea-level peak), stratal geometries are also asymmetrical but retrogradational architectures are dominant. These patterns are reproduced at all three orders of stratigraphic hierarchy (parasequence, sequence, and composite sequence). Comparison of these synthetic stratal geometries to real-world stratal geometries from Triassic to Neogene rocks across both the fifth-order (parasequence) and fourth-order (sequence) of stratal hierarchies suggests a consistently occurring asymmetrical, progradation-dominant motif. This indicates that 90°-out-of-phase sediment supply (supply peak occurs later than sea-level peak) may be a common occurrence through geological time. The work also corroborates the findings of earlier workers and suggests that sequence stratigraphic surfaces can change nature along depositional strike due to out-of-phase sediment supply and can thus also be diachronous. This work conceptually illustrates that Milankovitch climate-change-induced sinusoidal-sediment-supply cycles, out-of-phase with sinusoidal eustatic-sea-level cycles, may produce commonly observed asymmetrical stratal architectures and should be considered when invoking causal mechanisms for stratal architectures on clastic shelves.
Fringe or background: Characterizing deep-water mudstones beyond the basin-floor fan sandstone pinchout
Authors: Boulesteix Kévin , Poyatos-Moré Miquel , Hodgson David M. , Flint Stephen S. , Taylor Kevin G. 
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACT
Mud dominates volumetrically the fraction of sediment delivered and deposited in deep-water environments, and mudstone is a major component of basin-floor successions. However, studies of basin-floor deposits have mainly focused on their proximal sandstone-prone part. A consequent bias therefore remains in the understanding of depositional processes and stratigraphic architecture in mudstone-prone distal settings beyond the sandstone pinchouts of basin-floor fans. This study uses macroscopic and microscopic descriptions of over 500 m of continuous cores from research boreholes from the Permian Skoorsteenberg Formation of the Karoo Basin, South Africa, to document the sedimentology, stratigraphy, and ichnology of a distal mudstone-prone basin-floor succession. Very thin- to thin-bedded mudstones, deposited by low-density turbidity currents, stack to form bedsets bounded by thin packages (&lt; 0.7 m thick) of background mudstones. Genetically related bedsets stack to form bedset packages, which are bounded by thicker (&gt; 0.7 m thick) background mudstones. Stratigraphic correlation between cores suggests that bedsets represent the distal fringes of submarine fan lobe elements and/or lobes, and bedset packages represent the distal fringes of lobe complexes and/or lobe complex sets. The internal stacking pattern of bedsets and bedset packages is highly variable vertically and laterally, which records dominantly autogenic processes (e.g., compensational stacking, avulsion of feeder channels). The background mudstones are characterized by remnant tractional structures and outsize particles, and are interpreted as deposited from low-density turbidity currents and debris flows before intense biogenic reworking. These observations challenge the idea that mud accumulates only from hemipelagic suspension fallout in distal basin-floor environments. Thin background mudstones separating bedsets (&lt; 0.7 m thick) are interpreted to mainly represent autogenically driven lobe abandonment due to up-dip channel avulsion. The thicker background mudstones separating bedset packages (&gt; 0.7 m thick) are interpreted to dominantly mark allogenically driven regional decrease of sand supply to the basin floor. The recognition of sandstone-prone basin-floor fans passing into genetically linked distal fringe mudstones suggests that submarine lobes are at least ∼ 20 km longer than previously estimated. This study provides sedimentological, stratigraphic, and ichnological criteria to differentiate mudstones deposited in different sub-environments in distal deep-water basin-floor settings, with implications for the accurate characterization of basin-floor fan architecture, and their use as archives of paleoenvironmental change.
Natural killer cells inhibit sepsis caused by feces-induced acute peritonitis via regulation of angiogenesis
Authors: Lan Jing , Zhang Hong , Zhao Hui , Liu Linghong , Shi Qing , Li Dong , Ju Xiuli 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Sepsis is associated with acute peritonitis, which can be induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure and feces. Generally, LPS induces mono-microbial peritonitis, whereas feces cause poly-microbial peritonitis; the latter is a more complicated and closer to the clinical diseases. However, the immune responses to sepsis caused by feces-induced acute peritonitis have not been reported. In particular, the roles of natural killer (NK) cells, which generally have pro-angiogenic effects, on feces-induced sepsis are still unclear. Accordingly, in this study, we assessed the roles of NK cells in an acute sepsis model in mice. NK cells (108/kg) were injected via the tail vein into mice with acute sepsis, and nitric oxide (NO), inflammatory factors, and angiogenic factors were tested to explore the effects of NK cells on sepsis. In mice with sepsis, we observed a significant increase in survival in mice after the transfusion of NK cells. Interestingly, the levels of NO, interleukin-10, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) decreased. Consistent with our hypothesis, the transfusion of NK cells into mice with sepsis blocked inflammation and promoted angiogenesis. Overall, these findings suggest that NK cells may block sepsis by modulating the VEGF pathway.
Catheter-related Complications with Totally Implantable Venous Access Devices in Patients with Gynecologic Malignancies
Authors: Ernst Kristina , Bärtels Carolin , Gregorio Nikolaus de , Ebner Florian , Schochter Fabienne , Dayan Davut , Janni Wolfgang , Friedl Thomas , Gregorio Amelie de 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: The implantation of a subcutaneous implantable venous access device in patients with a gynecological cancer disease could be necessary because of different causes, e.g. application of chemotherapy or parenteral nutrition in case of advanced cancer. 4 years after implementation of the Seldinger-technique in the subclavian vein as standard way of port-catheter-implantation at department of gynecology at the University-Hospital in Ulm a retrospective analysis of complication-rates was performed to define internal standards for this procedure. Methods: Between 01/2014 and 07/2018 we reviewed all patients who received a port implantation at the gynecological department. The standard way of port-implantation used in this cohort was Seldinger-technique. All Data assessed were used anonymously. Patients-characteristics, tumor-entity, surgical and anesthesiological management, morbidity and port catheter associated complications (thrombosis, infections etc.) were analyzed. Results: A total of 638 were included. The implantation was performed in Seldinger-technique. Port catheter implantation was successfully performed in 96.6%. The implantation on the left subclavian vein significantly showed a higher rate of success than in the right subclavian vein (98.2% vs. 95.3%, p=0,036). Significant higher rates of associated thromboses was found in patients with a port implantation on the left side (5.9% vs. 2.0%; p=0.036). Obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/ m2) leads to a significant higher rate of venous misplacements (p=0.027). Compared to local anesthesia and analgosedation, general anesthesia leads to a significant lower rate of perioperative complications (20.3% vs. 22.4% vs. 13.1%; p=0.014). Perioperative application of antibiotics seems to reduce postoperative infection rates, even if the results are not significant. Conclusion: Seldinger-Technique is an efficient way for port-implantation. Especially patients with a high potential of complications, like obesity with BMI >30kg/m², or other risk factors, the left subclavian vein should be preferred, as well as general anesthesia. Perioperative application of antibiotics (e.g. single-shot antibiotics) should be considered. Trial registration: retrospectively registered
Implementation and Effectiveness of an Intensive Education Program on Phosphate Control Among Hemodialysis Patients: A Non-Randomized, Single-Arm, Single-Center Trial
Authors: Yin Jinmei , Yin Jun , Lian Rongli , Li Peiqiu , Zheng Jing 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Hyperphosphatemia is a common complication in patients on maintenance hemodialysis. Patients’ adherence to phosphorus control can be improved by consistent education. However, few studies have focused on the model construction and effects of health education on phosphate control for hemodialysis patients.Objective: To develop an intensive education program focusing on phosphate control among hemodialysis patients and to analyze the effectiveness of this program.Design: A non-randomized, single-arm, single-center trial lasting for 6 months.Setting: This program was conducted in a hemodialysis center in a teaching hospital in Zhuhai, China.Participants: Patients on maintenance hemodialysis with hyperphosphatemia.Methods: A intensive hyperphosphatemia control education program lasting for 6 months was conducted among 366 hemodialysis patients applying the First Principles of Instruction model, which focused on mastering four stages: (a) activation of prior experience, (b) demonstration of skills, (c) application of skills and (d) integration of these skills into real-world activities. The controlled rate of serum phosphorus, knowledge of hyperphosphatemia, and adherence to phosphate binders before and after the education program were assessed. Results: The controlled rate of serum phosphorus was significantly increased from 43.5% to 54.9% (P＜0.001). The scores of the patients’ knowledge of phosphate control were improved significantly from 59.10±12.90 to 80.98±14.82 (P<0.001). The percentage of high adherence to phosphate binders was increased dramatically from 21.9% to 44.5% (P<0.001). Conclusion: The intensive education program can effectively improve the controlled rate of serum phosphorus, knowledge of hyperphosphatemia, and adherence to phosphate binders among hemodialysis patients.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2100042017. Registered 12 January 2021 - Retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/login.aspx
Can Psychobiotics Administration Influence Behavioral Responses and Physiological Stress in Healthy Rats?
Authors: Morsheedi Mohamad , Valenlia Khadijeh Bavafa , Saghafi-Asl Maryam , Hadi Saeid , Hadi Vahid , Askari Gholamreza 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Bidirectional communication between gut and brain function is well demonstrated. Evidence is accumulating to suggest that psychobiotics [prebiotics, probiotics or synbiotics)] have beneficial effects of on psychological distress in disease states. However, their role in healthy status remains relatively unclear.Aims: Therefore, we aimed to clarify if psychobiotics (L.plantarum, inulin or their combination) can influence behavioral responses and physiological stress in healthy rats.Methods: Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Then, psychobiotics were administered to intervention groups for 8 weeks. Behavioral tests were performed at the end of the intervention.Results: Our finding indicated that unlike inulin, the administration of L.plantarum and synbiotic could ameliorate depression and anxiety-like behavior and cognitive performance. Serum and brain oxidative stress markers were significantly improved by synbiotic consumption. Also, intake of L.plantarum resulted in the decreased oxidative stress in the hippocampus and amygdala. In addition, a significant increase in hippocampal serotonin and BDNF concentration was observed after symbiotic and L.plantarum intake. Furthermore, there is a strong correlation between serum and brain markers with behavioral performances. Conclusion: Our study suggests that administration of psychobiotics therapy may be associated with prevent or ameliorate psychological disorders.
RNA-Binding Protein Hfq: A Role in Cellulose Decomposition
Authors: Yang Xingtao , Dong Mengyao , Zhou Ziyao , Deng Lei , Deng Cao , Liu Haifeng , Zhong Zhijun , Fu Hualin , Ren Zhihua , Hu Yanchun , Shen Liuhong , Geng Yi , Peng Guangneng 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
ObjectiveTo study the function of the RNA-binding protein Hfq in Bacillus subtilis cellulose decomposition.ResultsIn the medium with sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Na-CMC) as the sole carbon source, the knockout of Hfq resulted in a 38.0% ± 2.1% and 76.6% ± 7.1% decrease in cellulose hydrolysis ability and cellulase activity, respectively. The results of real-time quantitative PCR revealed that several cellulase genes (eglS, bglA, and bglC) were significantly downregulated in the Hfq knockout strain. The isogenic ΔHfq complemented strain recovered the cellulose hydrolysis ability, cellulase activity, and expression level of cellulase genes. In addition, the survival of Hfq mutant in stationary phase was significantly affected. ConclusionRNA-binding protein Hfq is involved in the regulation of cellulose hydrolysis ability, cellulase activity, cellulase gene expression, and stationary phase survival.
Air Quality Into Cabin Environment of Different Passenger Cars: Effect of Car Usage, Fuel Type and Ventilation/Infiltration Conditions
Authors: Tolis Evangelos I , Karanotas Tilemachos , Svolakis Grigoris , Panaras George , Bartzis John G. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Despite that commuters spend only 5.5% of their time in cabin vehicles, their exposure to harmful air pollutants, originated from the vehicle itself, and traffic emission is considered significant. In this study, two passenger cars with different type of fuels, were investigated in terms of air quality and thermal comfort of their cabin. Investigation was performed in the city of Kozani, Northern Greece. Moreover, air samples near the exhausts were taken, in order to compare concentration of compounds found indoors. 12 VOCs, and CO2 were measured inside the cabin when the cars were stopped, when idle, and when they were cruising in medium and heavy traffic roads, under various ventilated conditions. Thermal comfort was investigated while driving the cars through the city traffic. Results showed that the air around the diesel exhaust is less affected by emissions from the engine compared to LPG fuel. This is reflected to the TVOC measured into the cabin. Results also revealed that the air quality of a diesel fuel moving car with open windows is only affected by the traffic emissions from neighboring vehicles, while for the car with LPG fuel, the self-pollution from its own exhaust might contribute together with the outdoor air.
Quarantine in a House of Cards. The Impact of The COVID-19 Pandemic on The Quality of Life of Relatives of People With Major Care Needs.
Authors: Brug Annet ten , Luijkx Jorien , Brander Arjen 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Purpose COVID-19 (or the fear thereof) has an impact on people’s quality of life (QoL). It is likely to impose an additional burden on the relatives of people with major care needs (MCN). The aim of this study is to provide insight into the QoL of the relatives of people with MCN, in order to assist policymakers and care professionals in restoring and/or retaining an acceptable level of QoL. Method The QoL of 2,845 persons (including 697 relatives of people with MCN) was measured using the WHO-QoL BREF before and during the COVID-19 outbreak. The investigation focused specifically on the extent to which living circumstances and burden of care were related to changes in QoL.Results The COVID-19 outbreak has affected the overall QoL of people both with and without relatives with MCN, and these effects are unrelated to the burden of care for informal caregivers. The QoL of the environment has declined less for people who are living with relatives who have MCN. Conclusion One remarkable finding is a relative increase in sleep and social support for people who have relatives with MCN, although they did report a more pronounced decline in the extent to which they perceived their lives as meaningful. Specific attention should be paid to people in uncommon and vulnerable situations, who are less likely ask for support (e.g. marginally literate people and people coping with profound care needs), despite their low prevalence in the general population.
Techno-Economic and Life Cycle Analysis of Mixalco® Processes For Mixed Alcohol Production From Brown Algae
Authors: Athaley Abhay , Zhang Yue , Papoutsakis Eleftherios T. , Ierapetritou Marianthi 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The need for producing renewable fuels from biomass has increased due to depleting fossil resources and environmental concerns. However, the low fraction of biomass carbon converted to product is an undeniable drawback for most current biofuel productions from fermentation due to undecomposed lignin in biomass composition and carbon loss as CO2. In this work, two main production routes of the MixAlco® process, the Ketonization route (KR) and Esterification route (ER) are evaluated for the mixed alcohol production by brown algae, third-generation biomass without lignin. A Novel Fermentation process using syntrophic bacteria consortia (SBC) is developed to produce acetic acid from waste gas produced by KR and ER process. The paper investigates the integrated flowsheet for these alternative routes, using techno-economic and life cycle analysis to compare the minimum selling price and environmental impacts. The ER's capital and operating cost combined with the SBC is the highest compared with other routes. The cost of raw materials and utilities are the two major cost factors for all the processing routes examined. ER process performs the best in terms of environmental impacts except in water depletion compared with other processes, while the KR process performs the worst regarding the environmental metrics.
Hair Trace Elements in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Mikulewicz Marcin , Chojnacka Katarzyna 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
(1) Background: The aim of this work was to systematically review the literature on the relation between the levels of elements in hair (toxic elements and trace elements) on the occurrence of autism spectrum disorder. (2) Methods: Search strategy and study selection: Original articles were included if they met the including criteria that report the trace element levels in hair. The following databases were screened: Medline (via PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar (from 2000.01.01 to 2020.11.11). The main search terms used were “hair element analysis and trace elements and autism”. (3) Results: The papers available describe results of studies undertaken with the use of different methodology: diversified size of experimental groups, different sampling and analytical techniques. Therefore direct comparison of the results is not informative. (4) Conclusions: It was found that pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder was associated with the exposure to toxic elements (e.g. Hg and Pb) which act as neurotoxicants. Also, the relation between some microelements seem to be significant, in particular the ratio Zn/Cu. Higher level of zinc and level levels of copper play the protectory role.
Electro-Optical Measurement of Intense Electric Field on a High Energy Pulsed Power Accelerator
Authors: Owens Israel , Grabowski Chris , Biller Andrew , Ulmen Ben , Joseph Nathan , Hughes Ben , Coffey Sean , Kirschner Debra , Struve Ken 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
We describe a direct electro-optical approach to measuring a strong 118 MV/m narrow pulse width (~33 ns) electric field in the magnetically insulated transmission line (MITL) of a pulsed power accelerator. To date, this is the highest direct external electric field measured electro-optically in a pulsed power accelerator, and it is between two to three orders of magnitude higher than values reported in comparable high energy scientific experiments. The MITL electric field is one of the most important operating parameters in an accelerator and is critical to understanding the properties of the radiation output. However, accurately measuring these high fields using conventional pulsed power diagnostics is difficult due to the strength of interfering particles and fields. Our approach uses a free-space laser beam with a dielectric crystal sensor that is highly immune to electromagnetic interference and does not require an external calibration. Here we focus on device theory, operating parameters, laboratory and pulsed power accelerator experiments as well as challenges that were overcome in the measurement environment.