bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Probing the Interaction Forces between Bitumen-Coated Mineral Surfaces with Implications for the Removal of Fine Solids from Oil Product: Effect of Solvent
Authors: Cao Mengjiao , Zhao Yiming , Hu Yong , Wu Yining , Qiao Chenyu , Liu Changlong , Dai Caili , Liu Qi , Zeng Hongbo , Huang Jun 
Published: September 2022

SummaryConsiderable amounts of fine solids retained in the bitumen product have been a significant challenge hindering the commercialization of nonaqueous extraction (NAE) of bitumen from oil sands. Understanding the surface interaction between bitumen-coated fine particles and the suspension stability in NAE bitumen products is essential for developing suitable solutions to remove these undesired particles. In this work, the adsorption behaviors of bitumen on a model clay surface (i.e., molecularly smooth mica surface) in organic solvents (i.e., cyclohexane and cyclohexane-heptane mixtures) were systematically investigated using a surface force apparatus (SFA). Furthermore, the interaction forces between bitumen-coated mica surfaces were directly measured in different organic solvents to reveal the stabilization mechanism of fine solids during the NAE process. It was found that the solvent type and adsorption time significantly affect the adsorption behavior of bitumen on mica surface and regulate the interaction forces between bitumen-coated mica surfaces, which in turn have an impact on the stability of suspended fine solids in solvents. In cyclohexane or cyclohexane-rich solution, a thin layer of bitumen (~5 nm) was quickly deposited on fresh mica surface within 5 minutes and gradually equilibrated to form a soft layer after a long process (&gt;40 minutes). Only pure repulsive force due to steric repulsion was measured between the adsorbed layers, which led to a stable suspension of fine solids in solvents. In contrast, the presence of heptane caused the bitumen to rapidly (&lt;20 minutes) form a compact packing adsorption layer, and a weak adhesive force (&lt;5 mN/m) was measured between the bitumen-coated surface during the separation process. The adhesive force could be mainly brought by the interpenetration of long hydrocarbon chains or the conformation change of the organic network in both solution and substrate surface, which could lead to aggregation and settling of fine solids. Our SFA results provide valuable insights into the adsorption behavior of bitumen onto mineral surfaces and the interaction mechanism of bitumen-coated mineral surfaces in organic media, with important implications for the removal of fine solids from oil products.
A New Ultrasonic Reactor for CaCO3 Antiscaling in Pipelines and Equipment
Authors: da Silva C. E. T. , O. Soares L. L. de , Pereira L. G. , Cavalcante A. A. , Achy A. R. A. , Filardi V. L. , Ferreira V. P. , Fiuza Junior R. A. , Castro B. B. , Paes T. F. , Pepe I. M. 
Published: September 2022

Summary
Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) scaling is one of the main drawbacks in oil and gas production pipelines and equipment, contributing to the reduction or shutdown of production in petroleum extraction industries. This work shows a new device for the prevention of calcium carbonate scale in oil and gas production units. Three cells containing five ultrasonic transducers each (60 W×40 kHz) were used to reduce carbonate scaling in pipelines. Long-term tests were carried out in a semi-industrial hydraulic system that was properly instrumented to allow us to simulate CaCO3 production by injection of CaCl2·2H2O and NaHCO3. A proof valve was positioned downstream of the equipment. Pressure drop in the valve, scale mass on the pipe samples, and morphology of crystals were evaluated after 2 hours of testing. Well-marked reductions in pressure drop (up to 96%) on the proof-valve and scale thickness (up to 95%) in pipe samples were verified when compared with the system without any scale prevention device. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed alteration of the geometry and reduction of the particle size as the main reason for the reduction of scaling.
A retrospective evaluation of short-term results from colonic stenting as a bridge to elective surgery versus emergency surgery for malignant intestinal obstruction
Authors: Chongjing Mu , Lei Chen 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Purpose
The efficacy and safety of self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) placement as a bridge to elective surgery versus emergency surgery to treat malignant intestinal obstruction is debated. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of patients with malignant intestinal obstruction treated using different procedure.
Methods
Subjects admitted to the authors’ department with colonic obstruction (n = 87) were studied. They underwent colonic stenting as a bridge to elective surgery (SEMS group: n = 14) or emergency surgery (ES group:n = 22).Their demographic characteristics, stoma rate, laparoscopy rate and postoperative complications were analyzed, and the potential risk factors of postoperative complications and the optimal time interval from SEMS implantation to elective surgery were explored.
Results
The stoma rate was 15% in the SEMS group versus 60% in the ES group (P = 0.02), and the postoperative complication rate was 8% in the SEMS group versus 40% in the ES group (P = 0.04). The proportion of patients undergoing laparoscopy in SEMS group was significantly higher than that in ES group (69% vs. 15%; P = 0.003).The effect of ASA grade on postoperative complications was statistically significant (OR = 24.6; P = 0.008). The Receiving operating characteristic(ROC) curve could not determine the optimal time interval between SEMS implantation and elective surgery (AUC = 0.466).
Conclusions
SEMS implantation has the advantages of lower temporary stoma rate, less postoperative complications and higher laparoscopy rate compared with ES in the treatment of left malignant intestinal obstruction. ASA grade is a risk factor for postoperative complications. However, larger sample size prospective randomized controlled trials(RCT) are still needed to confirm long-term oncological outcomes.
The effect dietary L-carnitine Supplementation in the third trimester of pregnancy on the prevention of pregnancy toxemia in Damascus goats: a field study
Authors: ÜRER Ece KOLDAŞ , Köse Ayşe Merve , Raza Sanan , Sarıbay Mustafa Kemal , Doğruer Gökhan , Özsoy Bülent 
Published: September 2022

AbstractL-carnitine plays a main role in β-oxidation of fatty acids, and has been used increasingly in the livestock. This study aimed to determine the possible effects of adding L-carnitine to the ration at two different doses to protect Damascus goats from pregnancy toxemia, regardless of feed consumption. An estrus synchronization and natural mating protocol was performed in 150 goats. After pregnancy diagnosis, a total of 90 pregnant goats were divided into three groups at 100th day of pregnancy as CAR50, (50 mg/kg L-carnitine), CAR100 (100 mg/kg L-carnitine), and CON (no L-carnitine, control). 15 goats were randomly selected from each group and blood samples were collected at 100, 115, 130 and 145 days of pregnancy. Serum β-HBA, NEFA, and glucose levels were measured. Dietary L-carnitine supplementation had no effect on blood glucose levels in CAR50 and CAR100 compared to CON (P > 0.05) at third trimester of pregnancy. At 145 day of pregnancy differences in serum NEFA levels were significantly lower in CAR50 and CAR100 compared to CON (P < 0.01). Furthermore, the change in mean NEFA and β-HBA concentration between 100 and 145 days of gestation was not significant in the CAR100 group (P > 0.05). The results of the present study suggest that dietary L-carnitine supplementation represses ketone and NEFA levels in pregnant goat, especially at a dose of 100 mg/kg. Regardless of individual consumption of feed, adding fixed amount of L-carnitine to ration may help to avoid pregnancy toxemia in herds with a history of pregnancy toxemia.
Systematic review and network meta-analysis on motivational strategies added to physical activity interventions aimed at promoting physical activity among older adults with chronic illnesses.
Authors: Heij Ward , Sweerts Lieke , Staal J. Bart , Cuijpers Iris , Sanden Maria W.G. Nijhuis-van der , Wees Philip J. van der , Hoogeboom Thomas J. 
Published: September 2022

AbstractBackground: As the aging process of older adults advances, contact between older adults and healthcare professionals intensifies for adopting and maintaining physical activity. Motivational strategies can increase the effectiveness of physical activity interventions on the short- and longer duration.Objective: To investigate the individual effectiveness of motivational interviewing, tailor-made interventions, context-related interventions, shared decision making, and monitoring & feedback versus active- and passive control groups on physical activity level among older adults at short-, middle-, and long term. Secondary aim is to compare the effectiveness of interventions using a single motivational strategy versus interventions combining multiple motivational strategies.Data sources: Literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PEDro using keywords and subject headings.Study selection: Randomized controlled trials comparing two or more arms, with one arm focused on motivational strategies influencing physical activity were included. 20,690 titles were identified, of which 51 (comprising 11,596 participants) were included.Data extraction: Methodological quality and quality of evidence was evaluated using PEDro scale and GRADE approach. Outcomes were physical activity levels measured by objective- or subjective instruments at 3-, 6-, and 12 months follow-up. Standardized mean differences between intervention- and control groups were used as the mode of the analysis.Results: For primary outcome, 6 months follow-up, pooled data demonstrated higher effectiveness of motivational interviewing interventions, context-related interventions, and interventions using multiple motivational strategies. The quality of the body of evidence was graded as very low for all motivational strategies.Limitations: Data were pooled from a wide variety of different study populations and settings, content of interventions and outcome measures, increasing the heterogeneity of study characteristics.Conclusions: Interventions combining multiple motivational strategies seem to be more effective than using singular treatment strategies, although the optimal composition remains unclear.
Characterisation of spring cold spells occurrence in winter wheat cropping area
Authors: Su Hui , Yin Chang , Luo Qunyin , Liu Xiaoli , Huang Weibing , Zheng Bangyou , Song Youhong 
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Winter wheat growth and development in Huaibei Plain, Anhui Province, China is often subjected to the spring cold spell (SCS), which causes significant yield losses when it occurs during spikelet and floret development. However, there is no quantitative information available to describe the characteristics of SCS occurrence. Thus, this study aims to characterise the occurrence frequency, the pattern and parameters of SCS on the basis of daily climate data at 6 sites representing different regions in Huaibei Plain collected from 1956 to 2017. The SCS was shown to occur at least once or twice annually. The SCS was classified with four modes i.e. ‘quick drop and quick rise’ (mode "0"), ‘quick drop and slow rise’ (mode "1"), ‘slow drop and quick rise’ (mode "2"), and ‘slow drop and slow rise’ (mode "3"). Of which, the mode "0" accounts for 33%, the mode "1" accounts for 23%, the mode "2" accounts for 19%, and the mode "3" accounts for 26%. The SCS was described with five determinant parameters i.e. the temperature starting to drop (SCS_A), the duration of temperature dropping (SCS_B), the temperature difference (SCS_C), the temperature dropped to (SCS_D), and SCS_D lasting duration (SCS_E), which were further characterised over 60 years’ data. In conclusion, this study characterised the SCS with the occurrence probability, the pattern, and five determinant parameters, which will be used in the guidance for wheat cropping in minimising its impacts in Huang-Huai-Hai wheat area.
Effects of Adding Rumen-Protected Palm Oil in Diet on Milk Fatty Acid Profile and Lipid Health Indices in Kivircik Ewes
Authors: Satir Gulcin , Akturk Utku , Yavuz Musa , Köknaroğlu Hayati 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding 3% rumen-protected palm oil on milk fatty acid profile and lipid health indices in Kivircik ewes. For this purpose Kivircik ewes with approximately the same body weight were used. Treatment increased the palmitic acid (C16:0) content of milk compared to the control group (p<0.05) and tended to increase saturated fatty acids (SFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). An increase in SFA and MUFA was attributed to an increase in palmitic acid and oleic acid (C18:1), respectively. Results indicated that n-6/n-3 ratio ranged between 0.61-2.63, indicating that milk fat produced in this study had health-promoting effect. Inclusion of palm oil in the diet tended to increase desirable fatty acids (DFA) regardless of week milk sampled (p>0.05). Even treatment did not improve atherogenicity index (AI), thrombogenicity index (TI), health-promoting index (HPI), and hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic (h/H) ratio, they were still in the range reported in the literature thus implying that milk obtained from this study was not harmful to consumer’s health. Results showed that adding rumen-protected palm oil is an effective method to increase the energy density of ration and thus energy intake of ewes required during lactation without negatively affecting lipid health indices.
The ADAM17 Inhibition in Cord Blood Stem Cell Derived CD16 + NK Cells Enhanced Cytotoxicity against Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Cells
Authors: Valipour Behnaz , Mohammadi Seyedeh Momeneh , Talebi Mehdi , Charoudeh Hojjatollah Nozad 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background: Fortunately, ample efforts are attempting to find the best strategy to improve the NK cell anti-leukemia capacity in the treatment of different types of cancers. Despite the favorable ADCC capacity of functional CD16+ NK cells for immunotherapy, when NK cells face leukemia cells, CD16 receptor is cleaved during the process mediated by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) ADAM17. The reduced CD16 expression on NK cells weakens their cytotoxicity against leukemia cells. As well, the expression of CD47 receptor is higher in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) compared to normal cells and is correlated with poor prognosis.
Results:In the present study, ADAM17 was inhibited in cord blood derived CD16+ NK cells and then the activity against ALL cell lines was evaluated following blockage with anti-CD47 antibody. Since the CD16 expression reduces on co-cultured NK cells with ALL cell lines, ADAM17 inhibitor increases CD16+ NK cells cytotoxicity with high expression of CD107-a as well as INF-γ production, which consequently raise the apoptosis effects in cancer cell lines.
Conclusions: Therefore, the inhibition of ADAM17 is necessary for the CD16+ NK cells activity against cancer cells.
Biology and Life Table Parameters of Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood 1919 (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) on Tea Cultivars
Authors: Chetia Chayanika , Rahman Azizur , Chutia Pavitra 
Published: September 2022

Abstract

The information on life cycle and population growth parameters of a pest is essential for designing and development of an effective management program. In this article, the biology and life table parameters of the yellow tea thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), were studied on three selected tea cultivars viz., TV1, TV17 and TV23 in a laboratory condition of 25°C ± 2°C, 70–80% relative humidity (RH) and a 12L: 12D photoperiod. The maximum and minimum total developmental period of S. dorsalis from egg to adult was observed on TV23 and TV1 respectively. The adult female longevity was found to be maximum on TV1 and minimum on TV23. Life table analyses revealed that the net reproductive rate (R0) was maximum on TV17 and minimum on TV23. The intrinsic rate of increase (rm), finite rate of increase (λ) and weekly multiplication rate (erm.7) were maximum on TV1 and minimum on TV23. The doubling time was maximum for the population on TV23 and minimum on TV1. The results indicated that the growth and adult reproductive parameters were affected by the three different cultivars of tea which could be applied in tea thrips control management.
Challenges of Online Medical Education in Khartoum Sudan during COVID-19 Pandemic 2021
Authors: Sabir Mustafa , Kunna Ezzan 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Introduction:
Education and teaching has been adversely affected since the emergence of COVID-19 pandemic. Millions of students have been affected by the closure of educational institutions, including medical colleges and universities.To help students and save time, several institutes have turned to online education.
Objectives:
To investigate the challenges of online medical education during covid19 pandemic in Khartoum state.
Methodology:
Descriptive Cross-Sectional study of six medical faculties which were selected by convenient sampling, an online questionnaire was used. Excel and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences were used for data analysis, frequency tables and figures for analysis of data.
Results:
328 medical students across six faculties responded 132 (40.2%) are males and 196 (59.8%) are females. 209 (63.7%) of them between 18 – 22 years old, 116 (35.4%) between 23 – 26 years old and only 3 (0.9%) exceeded 26. The study found that students encountered difficulties concerning poor internet connection, which encountered 242 (73%). Also the major challenges encountered by the students were not only technical issues but also teachers related issues as 234 (71.3%) stated that the incompetence of teachers while dealing with online platforms was a major issue for them.
Conclusions and Recommendations:
Within the scope of this study, students had a primarily unfavorable view of the implementation of online education.
It is recommended that further research should be undertaken to understand the teachers’ views and experiences towards online education during the pandemic, to widen the view and knowing the whole scale of the challenges.
Factors Affecting Mortality and Morbidity in Total Correction Surgery Applied to Patients with Tetralogy of Fallot: 26 years of our experience
Authors: Ertürk Murat , Polat Ahmet Bülent , Karademir Nur , Öztarhan Kazım 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Background: Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart defect, includes a broad spectrum of RVOTO and multiple variants with surgical interventions and postoperative management tailored to each patient. In our study, we compared the morbidity and mortality rates of our two different surgical approaches according to the surgical criteria that have changed in the last 26 years.
Material and Method:Total correction surgery was performed on 967 patients with tetralogy of Fallot by the same surgical team in our clinic. The patients were divided into 2 groups, 340 in Group 1 and 627 in Group 2, according to preoperative criteria. Demographic data of the patients, preoperative evaluation methods, additional pathologies of the patients in the preoperative period, palliative operations performed before total correction and early postoperative complications were evaluated.
Results: A significant difference was observed in the mortality and morbidity outcomes of the 2 groups compared. Since the number of patients < 1 year was higher in Group 2 compared to Group 1, less palliative surgery was performed before total correction. Our patients in Group 2 had a lower incidence of postoperative complications, low cardiac output, and arrhythmia.
Conclusion: Correction of the pathology at an early age in symptomatic patients with a diagnosis of Tetralogy of Fallot positively affects the prognosis of the patient. In addition, early diagnosis and treatment in all patients with or without symptoms have a significant impact on the prognosis of complications that may occur in the postoperative period. We believe that one of the biggest factors in surgical success is an experienced surgical team that has worked together for many years.
Evaluation of the microRNA transcriptome in feline whole blood
Authors: Ohlsson Åsa , Hanås Sofia , Holst Bodil S. , Lorent Julie , Andersson Göran , Höglund Katja , Tidholm Anna , Ljungvall Ingrid , Häggström Jens 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are potential biomarkers for numerous diseases. Characterization of the whole blood (WB) miRNA-transcriptome (miRNome) in cats is lacking, which limits the potential use of miRNAs as biomarkers for i.e. feline heart disease. The aims of the present study were to identify and evaluate circulating miRNAs in feline WB by high-throughput sequencing of the total miRNome in WB from twelve cats, representing domestic mixed breed (DOM) and Norwegian Forest (NFO) cats with or without preclinical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). A total of 459 mature miRNAs were identified in feline WB, of which 40 were identified as potential novel miRNAs for cat. A majority, 85.3%, of the miRNAs showed sequence similarity with human miRNAs. An effect of breed was found, with up to thirteen miRNAs being differentially expressed between breeds. One miRNA, miR-204-5p, was potentially associated with preclinical HCM in NFO cats, but needs to be confirmed in a larger and sex-unbiased cohort. Most of the identified miRNAs in feline WB can be associated with regulation of haematopoietic cells. In conclusion, miRNome-sequencing can identify hundreds of circulating miRNAs in feline WB and breed should be considered when evaluating the miRNome in feline WB, especially in cohorts including preclinical patients.
Silica Extraction From Rice Hull Ash Through the Sol-gel Process Under Ultrasound
Authors: Fusinato Mirian Dosolina , Amaral Maria Alice Farias da Silva , de Irigon Paula Irigon , Calgaro Camila O. , Santos Diego Gil de los , Filho Pedro José Sanches 
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Rice is among the main foods produced in the world and is part of the daily diet of most families. The main waste from rice processing is rice husk (RH), which has been used as biomass for energy generation through combustion. In this process, rice husk ash (RHA) is generated as a residue, and its silica (SiO2) content varies from 85–98%. The present work describes the study of the extraction of silica from RHA by the ultrasound-assisted sol-gel method. An experimental design based on the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with the symmetrical, second-order Rotational Central Composite Design (RCCD) was applied to determine the best extraction conditions considering extraction time and molar ratio (n) as variables = nNaOH / nSilica). These optimal conditions were then applied to three ash samples, two obtained by the combustion process in a boiler furnace, with a mobile grate system (RHAC1 and RHAC2), and one obtained by the pyrolysis process (RHAP) carried out in a fixed bed reactor. Results showed that a molar ratio of 4.4, and an extraction time of 107 minutes were the best extraction conditions, leading to a yield of 73.3% for RHAP, 43.9% for RHAC1, and 31.1% for RHAC2. It was found that the extraction yield and textural properties of the silica obtained depend on the characteristics of the ash used. The silica extracted from RHAC1 presented a surface area of ​​465 m2.g− 1, mesopores of 4.69 nm, purity greater than 95%, and an ultra-fine granulometric distribution, reaching nanoparticle dimensions, characteristics comparable to commercially available silicas.