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Abstract Background Despite the worldwide increasing incidence of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections reported since December 2022, data on noninvasive GAS (nGAS) infections in the post COVID-19 era are limited. By a self-reported survey performed in an outpatient setting, we investigated the number and clinical features of GAS infections, the diagnostic work-up and the type of treatment utilized. In addition, the rate of influenza vaccination was evaluated. Methods In June 2023 family pediatricians involved in the study sent the survey to parents of patients aged 0–16 years. The survey included questions on GAS infections that occurred from January 1 to May 31, 2023. Results Among 3580 children, 20.3% had a GAS infection (0,8% < 1 year, 16,4% 1–3 years, 42,3% 3–6 years, 26,5% 6–9 years, 11,4%, 9–12 years, and 2,6% 12–16 years). Symptoms reported were sore throat (76.9%), fever (75.2%), tonsillar exudate (25.2%), lymphadenopathy (21.8%), and scarlet fever (14.7%). A single patient was hospitalized due to GAS meningitis. Twenty four percent of children had more than one GAS infection. In this group, frequencies of symptoms reported in the first and in the following infection were similar, except for fever and scarlet fever which were less frequent during relapses. GAS was identified by rapid antigen detection test in 81.0% of children. Eighty-nine per cent of children were treated with antibiotics, mostly amoxicillin/clavulanate (40.4%) and amoxicillin (39.4%). Thirty four percent of children received influenza vaccine. No difference was observed among immunized and not immunized regarding the number and characteristics of GAS infection. Conclusions We reported a certain prevalence of nGAS infections in children, mainly those aged 3–6 years age, who were mostly characterized by a low score of symptoms, and in most of the cases diagnosed and treated using a microbiological test as confirmatory tool. In this new clinical setting, a national study would be useful to reach more significant data for the definition of a correct diagnosis and clinical management of nGAS infections in children. Moreover, it is important to improve flu vaccination campaign and coverage to protect children from coinfections that could worsen the disease and misdiagnose the etiology of pharyngitis.

Abstract Nowadays, some fracking fluids can enable resourceful extraction of coalbed methane and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, their toxicity or corrosiveness will cause harm to downhole workers and pollute groundwater resources. Thus, five kinds of clean composite fracturing fluids were developed in this paper by using starch solution as the matrix and adding various preparations. The change rule of methane adsorption capacity by microstructure changes of coal samples was investigated systematically, and the optimal composite fracturing fluid was determined. The results showed that the new fracturing fluid increased the degree of aromatic ring condensation by 43.3% and the average pore size by 52.1%. Also, the adsorption constants of a value decreased by 11.6% and b value decreased by 23.9%, which can remarkably reduce the methane adsorption. The experimental results provide theoretical support for the clean production of coalbed methane.

The study of high-carbon formations was instigated both by the decreasing raw material base of oil as a result of its extraction, and by the progress in development of low-permeability shale strata, primarily in the USA, Australia, and China. The most valuable formations occur in traditional hydrocarbon production areas – the West Siberian, Volga-Ural and Timan-Pechora, North Pre-Caucasian and Lena-Tunguska oil and gas provinces. Specific features of the Late Devonian-Early Carboniferous high-carbon formation occurring in the eastern marginal part of the East European Platform are: heterogeneous section due to intense progradation of the carbonate platform from west to east; succession of lithofacies environments that determined the unevenness of the primary accumulation and secondary distribution of organic matter (OM); possible migration or preservation in the source strata during the subsidence stages of the moving parts of bitumides, which determined the prospects for oil and gas potential. The distribution pattern of the present OM content was investigated depending on lithofacies conditions and lithological composition of rocks in the “Domanik type” Upper Devonian-Tournaisian deposits in the Timan-Pechora Province (TPP), its transformation degree to bring it to the initial content of organic carbon and further estimation of the share of stored “mobile oil” in oil and gas source formation. The study was based on the analysis of the data set on organic carbon content in core samples and natural exposures in the Ukhta Region in the Domanik-Tournaisian part of the section including more than 5,000 determinations presented in reports and publications of VNIGRI and VNIGNI and supplemented by pyrolytic and bituminological analyses associated with the results of microtomographic, macro- and lithological studies and descriptions of thin sections made at the Saint Petersburg Mining University. For each tectonic zone of the TPP within the investigated high-carbon intervals, the content of total volumes of organic carbon was determined. The data obtained allow estimating the residual mass of mobile bitumoids in a low-permeability matrix of the high-carbon formation.

Abstract Pyrolysis of two types of pellets (T1: 100% wheat straw, and T2: 70% wheat straw; 10% sawdust, 10% biochar, and 10% bentonite clay) was performed in a pilot‐scale reactor under a nitrogen environment at 20°C to 700°C. This was to investigate slow pyrolysis yields and gas composition as a function of temperature and residence time. The experimental data were obtained between 300°C and 600°C, with a residence time of 90 min, a nitrogen flow rate of 50 cm3/min, and a heating rate of 20°C/min. The results indicated that the maximum pyrolysis temperature is 605°C with a residence time of 55 min. The product analysis showed that the proportion of gas was higher than that of biochar and bio‐oil. The conversion efficiency increased with higher temperatures and varied between 66% and 76%. The results showed that carbon dioxide was the main component in the produced gas, and the maximum gas concentration was 63.6% at 300°C for T1. The higher temperature and longer residence time increased the syngas (CO + H2) composition for both T1 and T2 treatments. Nevertheless, the produced biochar had a high carbon content and retained a high calorific value, indicating slow pyrolysis is the ideal utilization route of wheat straw pellet biomass for biochar.

Abstract Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate the refractive error in patients undergoing combined phacovitrectomy with and without gas tamponade. Methods This was a retrospective chart review including patients undergoing phacoemulsification alone (Group 1), combined phacovitrectomy for epiretinal membrane (Group 2), and combined phacovitrectomy with gas tamponade for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) (Group 3). Axial length and keratometry were measured using an optical biometric system (Argos, Alcon Laboratories. Inc.), and a three-piece intraocular lens (IOL; NX-70S) was implanted in all groups. In each group, the prediction error at 3 months was calculated using IOL power calculation formulas (SRK/T, Hill-RBF, Kane, and Barrett Universal II) for each eye. Outcome measures included the mean prediction error (MPE), its standard deviation (SD), and the mean absolute error (MAE). The change in IOL position at 3 months was also assessed using anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Results A total of 104 eyes were included (Group 1: 30; Group 2: 34; Group 3: 40 eyes). The MPE was −0.08 ± 0.37 diopters (D), −0.26 ± 0.32 D, and −0.59 ± 0.34 D in Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3, respectively, using the Barrett Universal II formula (P

Objectives: To clarify the infection route in maternal death due to invasive group A streptococcal (GAS) infection and toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on maternal deaths due to GAS-TSS in Japan between January 2010 and March 2024. The final causal diagnosis of maternal death and the infection routes of GAS were analysed using medical records, laboratory data and autopsy findings. Results: Among the 616 maternal deaths during the study period, 48 (8%) involved infectious diseases. The most common infection was invasive GAS (56%, n = 27), 21 (78%) and six cases occurred during the antepartum and puerperium periods, respectively. In the GAS-TSS group, 71% (15/21) infections were originated the upper respiratory tract. However, in the puerperium cases, 67% (4/6) were infected from the genital tract. In addition, no maternal deaths due to GAS-TSS were reported during the COVID-19 pandemic period in Japan from 2020 to 2023. Conclusion: Most antepartum GAS infections were from the upper respiratory tract. They may be reduced by preventive measures, including frequent disinfection, wearing masks and isolation from persons at high risk of carrying GAS, such as symptomatic children. On the other hand, GAS-TSS during puerperium infection via the genital tract.

The submerged arc welding (SAW) process is complex because multi-phase reactions occur simultaneously across a large temperature interval from 2500 °C in the arc cavity, down to the weld pool liquidus temperare at the slag-weld pool interface. This complexity hinders research on specific process metallurgy aspects, such as gas formation from the oxy-fluoride slag. The main objective of this work is to illustrate a low temperature experimental technique as an accurate reaction simulation experiment of SAW flux oxy-fluoride slag behaviour in terms of gas formation and metal powder assimilation reaction mechanisms as observed in the SAW process. The oxy-fluoride slag behaviour was confirmed by identification and analyses of nano-strand formation in the reacted slag formed from the reaction of welding flux with Al-Fe-Cr metal powders at 1350 °C. The observed nano-strand formation agrees with similar observations in SAW post-weld slags used to confirm of oxy-fluoride vaporisation and re-condensation. Element distribution from energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) maps and thermochemical calculations were used to gain insights into the reactions in nano-strand formation. The nano-strands contained chromium patches and spots of less than 1 μm in scale, confirming that added Cr metal powder assimilated via the gas phase. Cr-fluoride formed part of the oxy-fluoride slag and likely formed Cr-fluoride gas. Cr was recovered via re-condensation of Cr vapour formed from the reaction of Cr-fluoride with Al gas. This work presents an accurate low temperature simulation method of gas formation and metal powder assimilation reactions in oxy-fluoride slags as in the SAW process.

A comparative study of the Uralian Foreland in the Timan-Pechora and Volga Urals basins reveals considerable differences in structure and petroleum habitat. These differences were in large measure controlled by their geodynamic settings. A typical scenario of the continental marginal basin which subsequently was modified in the foredeep basin took place in the Timan-Pechora basin. The sedimentary fill of the basin is made up of the Phanerozoic deposits only. The principal oil source rock is provided by the prolific Domanik Suite broadly developed in is eastern part of the basin. The mature Domanik source rocks charged the majority of oil and gas fields of the Timan-Pechora Basin. In the Volga Urals basin the sedimentary fill includes two overlapping foredeep sequence – Riphean and Paleozoic, of which the Riphean one is much thicker. The Riphean depocenters were subjected to structural inversion during the docking of the Magnitogorsk island arc to the Uralian margin in the Middle Devonian-Frasnian. The inversion was accompanied by the thickening of the Riphean section due to the reactivation of the pre-existing Precambrian deformation and caused the regional uplift in the Southern Uralian Foreland. This uplift led to shifting of the Domanik troughs to the westerly outboard part of the Volga-Uralian Basin. The Domanik source rock remained immature over much of the Southern Uralian Foreland which is interpreted to be a result of the inversion of the Riphean depocenters and related regional uplift. It is proposed that the enormous clustering of large oil deposits in the Paleozoic section of the south-eastern part of the Volga Uralian Basin was to a much extent produced by the charging from the multi-kilometer thick Riphean section of the Southern Uralian Foreland.

The salt bearing thrust belts are among the most prolific petroleum provinces in the world, including the fold belts flanking the Persian Gulf Basin, the Tarim Basin, the Terek-Sunzha Zone of the Eastern PreCaucasus etc. They are characterized by peculiar structural styles of deformation, large oil and gas pool sizes, significant flow rates. The Chernyshev Swell is among prospective salt bearing thrust belts. It is located in the Cis-Uralian part of the Timan Pechora Basin. Several exploration wells have been drilled in the area so far failed to deliver the anticipated oil and gas deposits. Post mortem study indicated that the main reason for the past failures was the mismatch between the complexities of the geological settings and the used exploration technologies. Integrated study of the area, conducted by the North Uralian Petroleum Company, using modern technologies, including 3D seismic surveying and magnetotelluric sounding, has enabled a far better understanding of this area’s structure and petroleum habitat. It is shown that high petroleum potential is attributed to the transition zone between the Chernyshev Swell and the Kosyu Rogov Foredeep Basin. This study indicated that the area of the Povarnitsa High is of priority interest for explration. This area provides supplementary opportunities in addition to the commercialization of the petroleum exploration potential. It includes production of rare earth and metals in brine of the evaporate deposits. The subsalt reservoirs of the Chernyshev Swell could be used for the storage of gas and CO2 sequestration. Integrated development of the resource potential of the Povarnitsa High may become a key driver of the economic development of the north-eastern part of the Republic of Komi.

In the context of the fight against climate change and the development of renewable and new energies, the management of cashew nutshells is an issue. The physico-chemical and energetic properties of cashew nutshells show that they are good raw materials that can be used in thermochemical processes. Cashew nutshells were heated to temperatures of 300 ℃, 350 ℃ and 400 ℃ for 40 to 120 minutes to extract the liquid from the cashew nutshells. Biochar yields by mass were 46.5–52.8 wt%, 46.2–35.9 wt% and 37.8–30.3 wt% at temperatures of 300 ℃, 350 ℃ and 400 ℃, respectively. Biochar with high higher heating value and low residual oil content was obtained at a heating temperature of 300 ℃ for a time of 120 min. The biochar obtained under these optimum conditions has a residual oil content of less than 1 wt% and a higher heating value of 32.1 MJ·kg-1. The other two products, bio-oil and smoke, have higher heating values of 36 MJ·kg-1 and 10.2 MJ·Nm-3, respectively. Temperature and heating time improve the energy density and quality of biochar with low residual oil content. Heat treatment is therefore a promising technique for the production of an environmentally friendly and sustainable high energy solid biofuel from cashew nutshells.

GB/T 3836.1-2021 Explosive atmospheres-Part 1: Equipment-General requirements stipulates that the threshold power of RF equipment in explosive environments shall not exceed 6 W. This regulation limits the application of high-power RF equipment in coal mines. However, existing research on electromagnetic safety in explosive environments lacks comprehensive theoretical analysis and experimental verification. In order to solve the above problems, the electromagnetic wave thermal effect equation is derived. It is analyzed that the controllable parameters affecting the generation of thermal energy from the mixture of gas and coal dust coupled by electromagnetic waves are the electromagnetic wave coupling time, the electric field strength and the electromagnetic wave frequency. Based on the regulation in GB/T 3836.1-2021 that the maximum surface temperature of electrical equipment that may accumulate coal dust cannot exceed 150 ℃, simulation experiments are conducted using the multi physics field simulation software COMSOL to evaluate the thermal safety of gas and coal dust mixtures coupled with electromagnetic waves of different emission powers. The results show that the emission power that meets the safety threshold of electromagnetic wave thermal effect with a temperature not exceeding 150 ℃ is 16.48 W. With the increase of electromagnetic wave emission power, the safe duration of electromagnetic wave thermal effect (the corresponding time period that the thermal energy generated by the mixed gas of electromagnetic wave coupling gas and coal dust not causing the ambient temperature to exceed 150 ℃) gradually decreases. However, as long as the safe duration is maintained, the emission power of electromagnetic waves is not limited.

This paper examines the current challenges in the energy sector of the Western Balkan countries, focusing on the energy sector of Kosovo as a case study during the pandemic. These countries are at crucial stages of their development, marked by significant achievements but with ongoing challenges in the energy sector as a factor for sustainable development. The region remains highly vulnerable to energy crises and geopolitical tensions, particularly due to its heavy dependence on fossil fuels such as brown coal for energy production. Our research focuses on the energy system in Kosovo, highlighting its historical reliance on a fragile energy sector, particularly characterized by inflexible thermal power plants using outdated technology and a lack of additional, more flexible capacity. The purpose of this study is to examine Kosovo's energy system, assess the challenges it encounters, and identify the factors that have contributed to the energy crisis from 2021 to 2023. Doi: 10.28991/HIJ-2024-05-01-08 Full Text: PDF

Abstract Background Goal attainment scaling (GAS), an established individualized, patient-centred outcome measure, is used to capture the patient’s voice. Although first introduced ~60 years ago, there are few published guidelines for implementing GAS, and almost none for its use when caregivers GAS is implemented with caregiver input. We conducted a systematic review of studies that implemented GAS with caregiver input; and examined variations in GAS implementation, analysis, and reporting. Methods Literature was retrieved from Medline, Embase, Cochrane, PsycInfo and CINAHL databases. We included randomized controlled trials (published between 1968 and November 2022) that used GAS as an outcome measure and involved caregiver input during goal setting. Results Of the 2610 studies imported for screening, 21 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies employed GAS as a primary outcome. The majority (76%) had children as study participants. The most common disorders represented were cerebral palsy, developmental disorders, and dementia/Alzheimer’s disease. The traditional five-point GAS scale, with levels from −2 to +2, was most often implemented, with −1 level typically being the baseline. However, most studies omitted essential GAS details from their reports including the number of goals set, number of attainment levels and whether any training was given to GAS facilitators. Conclusions GAS with caregiver input has been used in a limited number of randomized controlled trials, primarily in pediatric patients and adults with dementia. There is a variability in GAS implementation and many crucial details related to the specifics of GAS implementation are omitted from reports, which may limit reproducibility. Here we propose catalog that may be utilized when reporting research results pertaining to GAS with caregivers to enhance the application of this patient-centered outcome measure.

This paper develops a new class of multivariate models for large-dimensional time-varying covariance matrices, called Cholesky generalized autoregressive score (GAS) models, which are based on the Cholesky decomposition of the covariance matrix and assume that the parameters are score-driven. Specifically, two types of score-driven updates are considered: one is closer to the GARCH family, and the other is inspired by the stochastic volatility model. We demonstrate that the models can be estimated equation-wise and are computationally feasible for high-dimensional cases. Moreover, we design an equation-wise dynamic model averaging or selection algorithm which simultaneously extracts model and parameter uncertainties, equipped with dynamically estimated model parameters. The simulation results illustrate the superiority of the proposed models. Finally, using a sizeable daily return dataset that includes 124 sectors in the Chinese stock market, two empirical studies with a small sample and a full sample are conducted to verify the advantages of our models. The full sample analysis by a dynamic correlation network documents significant structural changes in the Chinese stock market before and after COVID-19.

We present tail risk analysis of cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin), non-fungible tokens, stocks (FTSE 100 and S&P 500) and Gold from November 12, 2017 to March 31, 2022 using conditional model-based Value-at-Risk (VaR). We explored which model specification and distributional innovation could best capture the tail risk in these assets. Using the VaR and other risk metrics, we showed that there is no superior model/metric for capturing tail risk. We found that, for all the assets, non-Gaussian distributional assumptions best modelled the asymmetry and fat-tails in the distributions of the returns; though there was more homogeneity in the distributional assumptions for Gold unlike the other assets. Our research is crucial for internal risk modelling and may increase global investor confidence for those who blend conventional and unconventional assets. Also, this study can help investors make informed decisions about asset allocation and risk tolerance in the events of extreme market conditions. Understanding the tail risks in financial assets can help investors hedge and diversify against risk in their portfolios. The theoretical implications also show a trade-off between the different assets as the presence of tail risk reflect the potential of returns, yet possible losses in the presence of extreme events. Last, the findings reinforce the need for risk managers to re-focus their attention to a set of superior models rather than a single best model for risk assessment.

The aim of this paper is to investigate the effect of micro grooves on the lubrication performance of gas-lubricated inclined slider bearing. This paper is based on numerical analysis. The detailed numerical investigation is carried out in matlab software. The grooving parameters are optimized to obtain the maximum average pressure for various inclination angles of gas-lubricated inclined slider bearing. The results show that the inclination angle of the micro-grooves, depth of the micro-grooves, width of the micro-grooves, and spacing of the micro-grooves have an important influence on the hydrodynamic pressure of gas-lubricated inclined slider bearing with micro-grooves. Besides, the influence of the sliding speed on average pressure increment for various inclination angles of gas-lubricated inclined slider bearing is investigated. It is observed that the sliding speed generating the maximum average pressure increment is dependent on the inclination angle of gas-lubricated inclined slider bearing.

AbstractAn orbital subperiosteal abscess (SPA) is a serious complication associated with acute rhinosinusitis (ARS). However, no established guidelines are available for the management of this condition in pediatric patients. We report a case of pediatric gas-containing ARS-induced SPA treated with surgical drainage. A 5-year-old boy was referred to our hospital for treatment of ARS-induced orbital complications. A computerized tomography (CT) revealed opacification of the sinuses and fluid collection with gas in the subperiosteal space of the orbital medial wall. Based on these findings, the patient was diagnosed with ARS-induced SPA and received an antibiotic therapy and thereafter underwent surgical drainage. Sinus CT performed at the 6-month follow-up confirmed regeneration of the orbital medial wall that was surgically resected. Currently, there is no report regarding as optimal surgery of pediatric SPA and postoperative condition. This is the first report of pediatric SPA in which regeneration of resected orbital wall was confirmed.

Soil-based emissions from land conversions are often overlooked in climate planning. The objectives of this study were to use quantitative data on soil-based greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for the state of Georgia (GA) (USA) to examine context-specific (temporal, biophysical, economic, and social) climate planning and legal options to deal with these emissions. Currently, 30% of the land in GA has experienced anthropogenic land degradation (LD) primarily due to agriculture (64%). All seven soil orders were subject to various degrees of anthropogenic LD. Increases in overall LD between 2001 and 2021 indicate a lack of land degradation neutrality (LDN) in GA. Besides agricultural LD, there was also LD caused by increased development through urbanization, with 15,197.1 km2 developed, causing midpoint losses of 1.2 × 1011 kg of total soil carbon (TSC) with a corresponding midpoint social cost from carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions (SC-CO2) of USD $20.4B (where B = billion = 109, $ = U.S. dollars (USD)). Most developments occurred in the Metro Atlanta and Coastal Economic Development Regions, which indicates reverse climate change adaptation (RCCA). Soil consumption from developments is an important issue because it limits future soil or forest carbon (C) sequestration potential in these areas. Soil-based emissions should be included in GA’s carbon footprint. Understanding the geospatial and temporal context of land conversion decisions, as well as the social and economic costs, could be used to create incentives for land management that limit soil-based GHG emissions in a local context with implications for relevant United Nations (UN) initiatives.

Pyrolysis is an environmentally friendly and efficient method for converting biomass into a wide range of products, including fuels, chemicals, fertilizers, catalysts, and sorption materials. This review confirms that scientific research on biomass pyrolysis has remained strong over the past 10 years. The authors examine the operating conditions of different types of pyrolysis, including slow, intermediate, fast, and flash, highlighting the distinct heating rates for each. Furthermore, biomass pyrolysis reactors are categorized into four groups, pneumatic bed reactors, gravity reactors, stationary bed reactors, and mechanical reactors, with a discussion on each type. The review then focuses on recent advancements in pyrolysis technologies that have improved efficiency, yield, and product quality, which, in turn, support sustainable energy production and effective waste management. The composition and yields of products from the different types of pyrolysis have been also reviewed. Finally, a techno-economic analysis has been conducted for both the pyrolysis of biomass alone and the co-pyrolysis of biomass with other raw materials.

Oil is one of the main resources used by all countries in the world. The ever-growing demand for oil and oil products forces oil companies to increase production and refining. In order to increase net profit, oil producing companies are constantly upgrading equipment, improving oil production technologies, and preparing oil for further processing. When considering the elements of primary oil refining in difficult conditions, such as hard-to-reach or in remote locations, developers face strict limitations in energy resources and dimensions. Therefore, the use of traditional systems causes a number of difficulties, significantly reducing production efficiency. In this study, the authors solve the problem of improving the characteristics of the oil separation process. In their work, the authors analyzed the separation columns of primary oil distillation, identified the shortcomings of the technological process, and searched for technological solutions. Having identified the lack of technical solutions for monitoring the state of the temperature field of the separation column, the authors developed their own hardware–software complex for monitoring the separation column (RF patents No. 2020665473, No. 2021662752 were received). The complex was tested and successfully implemented into production. The study provides an assessment of the economic efficiency of implementation for a year and a forecast of the economic effect for 10 years.

Streptococcus pyogenes is responsible for 20–30% of pharyngitis in children and 5–15% in adults. The ineffective treatment of group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections can result in postinfectious sequelae. This study aims to evaluate the frequency of GAS pharyngitis and assess the management of patients with pharyngitis and antibiotic use. We conducted a multicenter, retrospective analysis of medical records from nine primary care centers in Poland. The study enrolled 1949 medical records of patients (children 67.4%, adults 32.6%). An infection of Streptococcus pyogenes, based on a rapid strep test, was diagnosed in 830 patients (42.6%). In the comprehensive study group of 1949 patients, 1054 (54.1%) were given antibiotics. Notably, 224 patients had a negative rapid strep test result but still received antibiotic treatment, underscoring the complexity of treatment decisions. The most commonly used antibiotics were oral penicillin V in 431 cases (41%) and amoxicillin in 219 cases (20.8%). We observed no significant difference between positive rapid strep test results and patients’ sociodemographic data and comorbidities. The prevalence of GAS was 42.6% in the analyzed records of patients with pharyngitis, and 54.1% were prescribed antibiotics. Antibiotics were overprescribed for sore throats. Strategies are needed to promote rational antibiotic use.

In view of the necessity of measuring the air content in oil in two-phase flows in the context of general industry, a review of the most popular methods of measuring the air content in oil was carried out. This review includes an assessment of their advantages and disadvantages and of whether they meet criteria such as the degree of filling, the size and number of bubbles, verification, the absence of additional pressure drops, simplicity, and repeatability. In the review, the following methods were examined: the classic trapping method, a modified trapping method, a trapping method using hydrostatic pressure loss, the pressure loss due to frictional flow resistance, the pressure loss with a rapid increase in diameter, the pressure drop in a Venturi tube, the pressure drop in an orifice, a method using the Coriolis effect, the electrical resistance method, the electrical conductivity method, the electromagnetic method, the electrical capacitance method, the thermal anemometry method, the liquid–solid contact electrification method, the photographic method, holography, light scattering, sound dispersion, the ultrasonic transit-time method, X-ray radiation, gamma radiation, neutron radiation, and fiber-optic methods.

During the domestication of crops, seed dormancy has been reduced or eliminated to encourage faster and more consistent germination. This alteration makes cultivated crops particularly vulnerable to pre-harvest sprouting, which occurs when mature crops are subjected to adverse environmental conditions, such as excessive rainfall or high humidity. Consequently, some seeds may bypass the normal dormancy period and begin to germinate while still attached to the mother plant before harvest. Grains affected by pre-harvest sprouting are characterized by increased levels of α-amylase activity, resulting in poor processing quality and immediate grain downgrading. In the agriculture industry, pre-harvest sprouting causes annual economic losses exceeding USD 1 billion worldwide. This premature germination is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, biochemical, and molecular factors closely linked to environmental conditions like rainfall. However, the exact mechanism behind this process is still unclear. Unlike pre-harvest sprouting, vivipary refers to the germination process and the activation of α-amylase during the soft dough stage, when the grains are still immature. Mature seeds with reduced levels of ABA or impaired ABA signaling (weak dormancy) are more susceptible to pre-harvest sprouting. While high seed dormancy can enhance resistance to pre-harvest sprouting, it can lead to undesirable outcomes for most crops, such as non-uniform seedling establishment after sowing. Thus, resistance to pre-harvest sprouting is crucial to ensuring productivity and sustainability and is an agronomically important trait affecting yield and grain quality. On the other hand, seed color is linked to sprouting resistance; however, the genetic relationship between both characteristics remains unresolved. The identification of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase-3 (MKK3) as the gene responsible for pre-harvest sprouting-1 (Phs-1) represents a significant advancement in our understanding of how sprouting in wheat is controlled at the molecular and genetic levels. In seed maturation, Viviparous-1 (Vp-1) plays a crucial role in managing pre-harvest sprouting by regulating seed maturation and inhibiting germination through the suppression of α-amylase and proteases. Vp-1 is a key player in ABA signaling and is essential for the activation of the seed maturation program. Mutants of Vp-1 exhibit an unpigmented aleurone cell layer and exhibit precocious germination due to decreased sensitivity to ABA. Recent research has also revealed that TaSRO-1 interacts with TaVp-1, contributing to the regulation of seed dormancy and resistance to pre-harvest sprouting in wheat. The goal of this review is to emphasize the latest research on pre-harvest sprouting in crops and to suggest possible directions for future studies.

ObjectiveGarlic skin (GAS) has been proven to improve the growth performance of fattening sheep. However, the mechanism by which GAS affects fattening sheep is not yet clear. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of adding GAS to feed on the growth performance, rumen and fecal microbiota, serum and urine metabolism, and transcriptomics of rumen epithelial cells in fattening sheep.MethodsGAS with 80 g/kg dry matter (DM) was added to the diet of fattening sheep to study the effects of GAS on gut microbiota, serum and urine metabolism, and transcriptome of rumen epithelial tissue in fattening sheep. Twelve Hu sheep (body weights; BW, 23.0 ± 2.3 kg and ages 120 ± 3.5 d) were randomly divided into two groups. The CON group was the basal diet, while the GAS group was supplemented with GAS in the basal diet. The trial period was 10 weeks, with the first 2 weeks being the pre-trial period.ResultsThe daily average weight gain of fattening sheep in the GAS group was significantly higher than that in the CON group (p

ABSTRACTIn December 2022, an alert was published in the UK and other European countries reporting an unusual increase in the incidence of Streptococcus pyogenes infections. Our aim was to describe the clinical, microbiological, and molecular characteristics of group A Streptococcus invasive infections (iGAS) in children prospectively recruited in Spain (September 2022–March 2023), and compare invasive strains with strains causing mild infections. One hundred thirty isolates of S. pyogenes causing infection (102 iGAS and 28 mild infections) were included in the microbiological study: emm typing, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and sequencing for core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST), resistome, and virulome analysis. Clinical data were available from 93 cases and 21 controls. Pneumonia was the most frequent clinical syndrome (41/93; 44.1%), followed by deep tissue abscesses (23/93; 24.7%), and osteoarticular infections (11/93; 11.8%). Forty-six of 93 cases (49.5%) required admission to the pediatric intensive care unit. iGAS isolates mainly belonged to emm1 and emm12; emm12 predominated in 2022 but was surpassed by emm1 in 2023. Spread of M1UK sublineage (28/64 M1 isolates) was communicated for the first time in Spain, but it did not replace the still predominant sublineage M1global (36/64). Furthermore, a difference in emm types compared with the mild cases was observed with predominance of emm1, but also important representativeness of emm12 and emm89 isolates. Pneumonia, the most frequent and severe iGAS diagnosed, was associated with the speA gene, while the ssa superantigen was associated with milder cases. iGAS isolates were mainly susceptible to antimicrobials. cgMLST showed five major clusters: ST28-ST1357/emm1, ST36-ST425/emm12, ST242/emm12.37, ST39/emm4, and ST101-ST1295/emm89 isolates.IMPORTANCEGroup A Streptococcus (GAS) is a common bacterial pathogen in the pediatric population. In the last months of 2022, an unusual increase in GAS infections was detected in various countries. Certain strains were overrepresented, although the cause of this raise is not clear. In Spain, a significant increase in mild and severe cases was also observed; this study evaluates the clinical characteristics and the strains involved in both scenarios. Our study showed that the increase in incidence did not correlate with an increase in resistance or with an emm types shift. However, there seemed to be a rise in severity, partly related to a greater rate of pneumonia cases. These findings suggest a general increase in iGAS that highlights the need for surveillance. The introduction of whole genome sequencing in the diagnosis and surveillance of iGAS may improve the understanding of antibiotic resistance, virulence, and clones, facilitating its control and personalized treatment.

Oil reservoirs are nearing maturation, necessitating novel enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques to meet escalating global energy demands. This demand has spurred interest in reservoir production analysis and forecasting tools to enhance economic and technical efficiency. Accurate validation of these tools, known as simulators, using laboratory or field data is pivotal for precise reservoir productivity estimation. This study delves into the application of nanoparticles in foam flooding for mobility control to improve sweep efficiency. Foam generation can occur in-situ by simultaneous injection of surfactants and gas or through pre-generated foam injection into the reservoir. In this work, a series of systematic simulations were run to investigate how much injected fluids can reduce gas breakthrough while also increasing oil recovery. Subsequently, we analyzed the most effective optimization strategies, considering their economic limits. Our primary objective is to numerically model nanofoam flooding as an innovative EOR approach, synergizing foam flooding mechanisms with nanotechnology benefits. In this work, modeling of nanoparticles in foam liquid was represented by the interfacial properties provided to the injection fluid. Additionally, we simulated Water-Alternating-Gas (WAG) injection schemes across various cycles, comparing their outcomes. Our results showed that nanofoam injection achieved a higher recovery factor of at least 38% and 95% more than WAG and gas injections, respectively. The superior efficiency and productivity of foam injection compared to WAG and gas injection suggest an optimal EOR approach within the scope of our model. These simulated optimization techniques contribute to the future development of processes in this field.

The landfill is a place used for landfill that can have a negative impact on the environment such as, causing greenhouse gas emissions, soil contamination, and groundwater pollution. Landfill gas content of CH4, CO2 and Non Methane Organic Compounds (NMOC) is the cause of the greenhouse effect and Global Warming Potential (GWP). The concentration of CH4 in landfill gas is relatively low, but CH4 causes a greenhouse effect 21 times greater than CO2. The research was conducted at the Talang Gulo landfill in Jambi City. The purpose of this study is to measure and analyze the production and amount of CH4 gas concentration emitted into the atmosphere and assess methane gas emissions as an energy source. The Application to estimate gas using models was with LandGEM-v302 software. The results of LandGEM- v302 simulation of landfill gas show a peak in 2023 of 3,194 x 104 Mg year-1 for total landfill gas, methane emissions A6 (8,530 x 103 Mg year-1), carbon dioxide (2,341 x 104 Mg year-1) and NMOC (3,667 x 102 Mg year-1). The potential of methane gas as a source of fuel energy is 11,403,693.84 kg year-1 and electrical energy is 182,862.08 kWh.

Background. During operation, the main pipeline needs to be repaired. During periodic diagnostics of the pipeline state defects are detected, some of which are unacceptable. The classic repairing method, that involves the shutdown of the pipeline with subsequent replacement of its defective spots, requires significant financial costs and is associated with a forced pipeline outage and environmental violation. Objective. The purpose of this article is to improve the technology of reinforcing sections of main high-pressure pipeline with welded couplings, which are filled with molten metal by allowing obtaining high efficiency of pipe strengthening of medium and small diameters. Methods. Strength improvement of the active pipeline spots is realized by installing brazed-welded couplings on an active main pipeline. Strengthening the pipeline with the coupling consists in the redistribution of the load part from the pipe to the wall of the coupling, which leads to a decrease of the stress level in the pipe wall. The reinforcement efficiency of the pipeline could be evaluated by the degree of reduction of circumferential stresses in the fixed pipe wall. Results. The article suggests a technique for strength improvement of pipeline spots using couplings filled with a molten metal that has a high elasticity modulus. The operations of formation of under-coupling layer with the parameters that provide achievement of the maximum value of the stresses reduction degree in the reinforced pipe are proposed, while ensuring an even load distribution between the wall of the pipeline spot being repaired and the coupling shell. An improved technology for fixing defective spots of the active pipeline has been proposed, designs for front seals have been proposed that facilitate the formation of under-coupling layer with optimal parameters. The proposed technique makes it possible to increase the efficiency of the pipe strengthening of small and medium diameters. Conclusions. The article proposes an improved technology of the defective spots reinforcing of the active main pipeline using braze-welded coupling. The focus is on the design of mechanical seals that ensure the tightness of the under-coupling space during the formation of the coupling layer. Further research would be performed in the direction of developing a mathematical model of the pipeline reinforced with braze-welded coupling, taking into account temperature changes during heating and cooling of the coupling structures during the formation of the under-coupling layer. Some research will be also performed to improve the coupling structures and methods of quality control of their mounting on the pipe.

The Black Sea shelf contains significant hydrocarbon resources. Over the past decades the Black Sea countries, supported by Western oil and gas companies, have been developing various plans for the extraction and export of hydrocarbon resources to fore In solving this task, they faced a number of challenges due to the difficult production conditions. In addition, the Black Sea region was not in the focus of attention of oil and gas companies, which produced resources in other regions of the world. Nevertheless, the Black Sea countries have developed national programs for the production of hydrocarbons on the Black Sea shelf and are considering various options for their export to foreign markets.

The article is devoted to the study of China’s energy transition policy and the prospects for its implementation. As the world’s second largest economy, the People’s Republic of China has become an important part of the global energy market in recent years. In the process of industrialization and economic growth, the Chinese economy plays an important and positive role in maintaining the world’s energy security. In connection with the gradual slowdown in the growth of the Chinese economy, the full implementation of the Paris Agreement, as well as the transformation and modernization of the global energy structure, the Chinese side proposed a new strategy for energy transition and energy security. In 2020, China announced a desire to reduce carbon emissions and achieve carbon neutrality. Despite the fact that China’s own coal dominates in the structure of China’s energy balance, the emphasis is on identifying the role of oil and gas in the modernization of the energy system. The features of China’s energy production and consumption structure are emphasized, in which natural gas can become an auxiliary and transitional energy source during its transformation of the energy system. The article discusses the main documents that define the energy transition. The preliminary results of China’s implementation of the new energy policy have been summed up. It is concluded that energy saving and efficiency improvement are the primary objectives of China’s modern energy strategy, as well as important measures to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

The equality implications of tariff design for household gas and electricity, two essential substitutes, present a significant concern for policymakers. In this study, we examine this issue using a sample of household income quartiles across various social groups, exploring the diverse effects of changes in electricity and gas prices. The findings reveal that an increase in gas prices exerts a more pronounced impact on low-income groups compared to an equivalent increase in electricity prices. Our partial analysis indicates that gas exhibits less elasticity, likely attributed to the absence of a suitable substitute in the event of a price increase for this commodity. This observation underscores the lack of energy diversity that is rooted in the critical role of gas appliances in cooking and heating. This phenomenon poses a potential threat to the energy security of Iranian households.

Meat may provide not only essential nutritional content but also possible harmful effects on human bodies. Unsafe consumption of meat potentially triggers colorectal cancer risks. Grilling is the most popular way to consume meat. However, meat grilling triggers the formation of hazardous chemical substances such as poisonous Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs). This study conducted experiments using hardware engineering with microcontrollers and different gas sensors, aiming to identify gas substances produced by meat during grilling. The hardware prototype for the test simulation tool was assembled with integrated block systems and circuits. Evaluations were conducted on the direct grilling of three different types of meat. The data results were then utilized to analyze gas substances produced by meat during direct grilling. Based on the results, only five of the seven MQ-type gas sensors used in the research reacted to gas substances produced by all types of meat: LPG, alcohol, carbon monoxide, methane, and carbon dioxide, which were successfully detected in meat during grilling. Our research contributes to discovering a potential prevalence of increased alcoholic content in meat that has been grilled for five minutes. This finding is especially crucial for Muslims since it is highly correlated with halal certification of meat consumption. According to the results, Muslims should wait at least seven minutes or more after direct grilling to let the alcoholic content in meat thoroughly decrease so that it can be safely certified as halal to be consumed according to Islamic laws. Doi: 10.28991/HIJ-2023-04-03-01 Full Text: PDF

Complexities of the intestine have brought enormous controversy and discussions to the research on the digestive diseases. The neglected gas environment is crucial in shaping the dynamic intestinal microenvironment. Many gases are involved in the biological activities within the intestinal anaerobic environment, including oxygen, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, ammonia, methane, hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen. These gases participate in the regulation of systemic inflammation and metabolism via different pathways, thereby alleviating or promoting the development of intestinal disease. Meanwhile, the constitution and changes of gases reflect the intestinal environment, which could be utilized to monitor the variation in local metabolism and imply the progress of digestive disorders. However, individual gas has intrinsic functions in maintaining a healthy intestinal microenvironment or causing digestive diseases, and the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. Therefore, exploring the profile of gases in the digestive tract and their extraordinary impact on the intestinal microenvironment will be of great value in understanding the interplay between intestinal health and diseases. By reviewing the research progress of gases in the digestive tract, we anticipate that a better understanding of the roles of gases would promote the research and application transformation in this field as well as the diagnostics and treatment of clinical diseases.

The porosity of freshwater ice and sea ice is one of the main parameters that determine their strength. The strength of ice varies over a wide range of values, and the differences in the intensity of the mechanisms of ice porosity formation in different water areas can be one of the possible reasons for these variations. The water mass contains gases in two forms: gases dissolved in the water mass, as well as gas bubbles that are formed when wind waves break up, and bubbles that float up from the seabed. This article presents the results of an analysis of the role of each of these forms in the formation of gas inclusions (pores) in the crystal structure of ice. The results showed that the main source of gas pores in ice crystals is the gas bubbles coming to the surface from the bottom, formed during the decomposition of bottom sediments or during gas leaks from near-bottom oil and gas fields. The possibility of gas bubbles occurring and rising to the ice–water boundary depends on the presence of bottom sources of the gases, the intensity of dissolution of the bubbles and the depth of the water area. Therefore, the variation in the porosity and the strength of ice over the space of the water areas can be associated with the changes in their depths, and the presence and location of the natural gas sources.

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a promising and highly sensitive molecular fingerprint detection technology. However, the development of SERS nanocomposites that are label-free, highly sensitive, selective, stable, and reusable for gaseous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) detection remains a challenge. Here, we report a novel TiO2NTs/AuNPs@ZIF−8 nanocomposite for the ultrasensitive SERS detection of VOCs. The three-dimensional TiO2 nanotube structure with a large specific surface area provides abundant sites for the loading of Au NPs, which possess excellent local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effects, further leading to the formation of a large number of SERS active hotspots. The externally wrapped porous MOF structure adsorbs more gaseous VOC molecules onto the noble metal surface. Under the synergistic mechanism of physical and chemical enhancement, a better SERS enhancement effect can be achieved. By optimizing experimental conditions, the SERS detection limit for acetophenone, a common exhaled VOC, is as low as 10−11 M. And the relative standard deviation of SERS signal intensity from different points on the same nanocomposite surface is 4.7%. The acetophenone gas achieves a 1 min response and the signal reaches stability in 4 min. Under UV irradiation, the surface-adsorbed acetophenone can be completely degraded within 40 min. The experimental results demonstrate that this nanocomposite has good detection sensitivity, repeatability, selectivity, response speed, and reusability, making it a promising sensor for gaseous VOCs.

The oil and gas trade is one of the main ways to promote regional economic development by improving the effectiveness of resource allocation. While regional energy cooperation could lead to growth in the energy trade, blind investment will reduce effective yields. Kazakhstan and China maintain a stable oil and gas trade, but resource exports to China are not growing as expected. The aim of this research is to analyze the competitiveness and complementarity of Kazakhstan and China in the oil and gas trade, as well as the main factors affecting the oil and gas trade between Kazakhstan and China. By creating a linear regression equation to analyze the gravity model of the oil and gas trade between Kazakhstan and China, it was revealed that a 1% growth of the gross domestic product in both countries would lead to a 1.471% increase in the oil and gas trade. However, an increase in oil and gas production in Kazakhstan will not contribute to the expansion of the oil and gas trade with China. Kazakhstan and China could improve their oil and gas trade by strengthening financial cooperation, improving energy efficiency, increasing investment in infrastructure such as oil refineries and pipelines, and developing new oil and gas fields in Kazakhstan.

The goal of this study is to describe how the natural gas line program was put into place in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Lontong neighbourhood of Surabaya, where craftsmen use LPG a lot. The theory used to make sense of the phenomenon is called policy effectiveness, and it consists of the following components: 1) availability; 2) breadth; 3) depth; 4) bias; 5) responsibility; and 6) appropriateness. In addition, both qualitative and descriptive types of research were used. Ten lontong artisans, three PGN members, and two subdistrict officials are among the informants. Since 2016, residents of the lontong neighbourhood have been using natural gas lines in their factories, according to the results. Socialization of the retail space spreads the word to locals about the program. Information about the program is readily available to each subdistrict thanks to a sales area representative and a call centre open around the clock. Monthly program usage can range from 200m3 to 1,500m3, and the program is available to both single-family homes and small and medium-sized businesses. However, many people are still unaware of the benefits of using natural gas, so the natural gas line program needs to be socialized.

Abstract Background To evaluate the effect of room air and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas in idiopathic macular hole(MH)surgery. Methods Retrospective, interventional, and comparative study. 238 eyes with the idiopathic macular hole that underwent pars plana vitrectomy, internal limiting membrane peeling, fluid-air exchange, and 20% SF6 (SF6 group:125 eyes) or room air tamponade (air group: 113 eyes) were reviewed. The primary outcome measure was the closure rate of primary surgery. Results The baseline characteristics of the SF6 group and air group were comparable except for the hole size (479.90 ± 204.48 vs. 429.38 ± 174.63 μm, P = 0.043). The anatomical closure rate was 92.8% (116 / 125) with the SF6 group and 76.1% (86 / 113) with the air group (P 520 μm. Conclusion SF6 exhibited more effectiveness than air to achieve a good anatomical outcome for its longer tamponade when MH > 520 μm.

The issues of tectonic structure and oil and gas geological zoning of the Southern oil and gas region of Ukraine are considered, the main differences between the existing schemes of oil and gas geological division are presented, the essence of which lies in different views on the tectonic structure of the region and the taxonomy of its individual elements. The requirements of the current legislation relating to the classification of deposits depending on their condition in the initial reservoir conditions are given and the hydrocarbon deposits of the studied region are described. In the Southern Oil and Gas Region of Ukraine, there are 46 deposits, that is 10.2% of all deposits of Ukraine, of which 10 are oil, 1 is oil and gas, 4 are gas and oil, 7 are gas condensate, and 25 are gas (including 1 underground gas storage). An assessment of the state of reserves and prospective resources of the Southern oil and gas region in relation to all reserves and prospective resources of Ukraine was carried out. Significant discoveries can be associated with the Lower Cretaceous oil and gas complex, amounting to 228,227 million m³ or 69.1% of all prospective hydrocarbon resources of the Southern oil and gas region or 25% of all prospective resources of Ukraine. Summarizing tables of the distribution of reserves and prospective resources of the main hydrocarbon components by depth and stratigraphic division have been compiled. Diagrams of the numerical expression of the distribution of reserves and prospective resources were constructed. The reasons for uneven distribution of reserves and resources of the region depending on depth and stratigraphic division are highlighted.

Formulation of the problem. In the world's oil and gas-bearing basins, there are known examples of an increase in the reserves of hydrocarbon deposits as a result of inflow of fluids from the deep subsoil. Recently, the theory of the Earth degassing is gaining popularity. There are more and more arguments in favor of the fact that in many oil- and gas-bearing provinces of the world, oil and gas deposits are constantly replenished due to the migration of hydrocarbons through degassing pipes. Certain prospects for maintaining oil and gas production are possible as a result of the natural recovery of depleted deposits in Ukraine as well. However, this issue has not been sufficiently studied and requires further research. The purpose of the article is to argue with actual materials for the regeneration of hydrocarbon deposits, to estimate the probable volumes of their replenishment, to determine the methods of geological research to outline the zones of nourishment of hydrocarbon deposits. Materials and methods. Research materials are actual materials from the development and permanent assessment of hydrocarbon reserves of Ukrainian deposits. The research methodology consists in the analysis of the facts of the replenishment of hydrocarbon deposits from the point of view of new scientific concepts of the supply of hydrocarbons from the deep subsoil. Results. Based on the results of the increase in reservoir pressures of spent gas condensate deposits and repeated calculations of hydrocarbon reserves of the Shebelynka, Chornukhy, Bilousivka and Proletarka deposits of the Dnipro-Donets Basin, a conclusion was made about the replenishment of deposits due to the vertical migration of oil and gas, the probable scales of deposit regeneration were estimated. The results of industrial development of the East Kazantyp and North Bulganak gas fields of the Indolo-Kuban depression also testify to their probable feeding from the depths. Adiabatic fracture formation associated with seismotectonic impulses and phenomena of natural rupture of rocks by deep fluids plays a significant role in the formation of unconventional deposits. The result of fluid fracturing of rocks is specific matrix microcracking. It is well manifested in well cores from depths of more than 5.5 km (Semyrenky, Machushy deposits of the Dnipro-Donets Basin). Hydrocarbon deposits at these depths have a zonal character and are not controlled by the structural factor. Scientific novelty, practical significance and recommendations. Actual materials have proven that some hydrocarbon deposits in Ukraine are constantly being replenished as a result of seepage of deep fluids. It is likely that the main channels of hydrocarbon supply to deposits are deep faults. To determine the degassing channels it is advisable to use the methods of field geophysics and geochemical studies. We can state that the replenishment of gas reserves of some Dnipro-Donets Basin fields according to confirmed facts ranges from 14 to 1800 million m3 annually. It is necessary to monitor the spent deposits, therefore it is advisable not to liquidate decommissioned wells, but to preserve them or transfer to the fund of observation wells, periodically measuring reservoir pressures and determining the character of fluid saturation of spent deposits. It is necessary to manage the process of extraction of hydrocarbons, applying a policy of balanced economical production.

Submergence in rice fields creating inundation stress and realizing anoxia or hypoxia is a problem in agriculture. Seeds under this oxygen deficit are faced with fermentative respiration, where the end product would be poisoning the tissue viability. This is more aggravated in direct seeded rice cultivation with the accumulation of lactate as a poison. This review is concerned with the basic insights into anoxia tolerance in seeds and possible strategies to reduce anoxic shock through the modification of metabolism preceded by gene expression. The major concern of anoxic germination is starch metabolism and downstream physiological realization to facilitate escape or quiescence strategy, overcoming submergence stress. The coleoptiles facing hypoxic stress mated with transcripts for oxidative traits, energy metabolism, and proteins for membrane peroxidation in support of energy metabolism are the most important. Hypoxic genes are recovered from traditional indica and japonica land races of rice, and show changes in glycolytic flux and sugar sensing. Anoxic germination and seedling vigor are based on a combinational regulation of oxidative stress and fermentative catabolism. De novo antioxidant and antioxidative enzyme production can support improved seed germination in this condition. Pre-harvest spouting with seed-coat-induced dormancy, hormonal ratios, and hydrolyses would be of concern. Therefore, comprehensive analysis aimed to understand rice seed priming for better gas exchange, diffusion, temperature sensitivity, ion uptake, redox balance, and others. Still, in-depth insights are being awaited for better understanding the physiological and molecular basis using a multi-omics approach for better seed priming to overcome the anoxic/hypoxic revelation mostly acquainted with submergence stress.

The Chilean government has presented an accelerated decarbonization plan, proposing the closure of coal-fired power plants by 2025, to combat climate change. Therefore, it is important to migrate to new forms of cleaner generation that are also safe for the electricity system. It is in this context that the motivation arises to study the hybridization of two technologies usually opposed, such as CSP and Gas, to enhance the benefits of each one. The plant to be evaluated has a HYSOL configuration, which consists of a Solar Tower with thermal storage of salt to which is incorporated a gas cycle whose exhaust gases are used to heat the salt when necessary. For this study, SAM was used to model the solar field and EES was used to simulate the thermodynamic components of the Brayton and Rankine cycles. The study is carried out at 3 locations in the Antofagasta Region. Capacity factors close to 90% are obtained, which is higher than most of the Non-Conventional Renewable Energies. Similar CO2 emission factors are obtained in the 3 locations and around 0,12 Ton CO2/ MWh, which is substantially lower than other generators based on conventional fuels. The lowest LCOE occurs in L2 and has a value of 82,9 USD/MWh, being more cost effective than Open Cycle Gas and Nuclear technologies and could become competitive in the future with other technologies if the costs associated with the solar field are reduced as expected. It’s concluded that the proposed solution is technically and economically feasible.

BackgroundGroup A Streptococcus (GAS) causes multiple clinical manifestations, including invasive (iGAS) or even life-threatening (severe-iGAS) infections. After the drop in cases during COVID-19 pandemic, in 2022 a sharp increase of GAS was reported globally.MethodsGAS strains collected in 09/2022–03/2023 in two university hospitals in Milan, Italy were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical/epidemiological data were combined with whole-genome sequencing to: (i) define resistome/virulome, (ii) identify putative transmission chains, (iii) explore associations between emm-types and clinical severity.ResultsTwenty-eight isolates were available, 19/28 (67.9%) from adults and 9/28 (32.1%) from pediatric population. The criteria for iGAS were met by 19/28 cases (67.9%), of which 11/19 (39.3%) met the further criteria for severe-iGAS. Pediatric cases were mainly non-invasive infections (8/9, 88.9%), adult cases were iGAS and severe-iGAS in 18/19 (94.7%) and 10/19 (52.6%), respectively. Thirteen emm-types were detected, the most prevalent being emm1 and emm12 (6/28 strains each, 21.4%). Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis of emm1.0 and emm12.0 strains revealed pairwise SNP distance always >10, inconsistent with unique transmission chains. Emm12.0-type, found to almost exclusively carry virulence factors speH and speI, was mainly detected in children and in no-iGAS infections (55.6 vs. 5.3%, p = 0.007 and 66.7 vs. 0.0%, p < 0.001, respectively), while emm1.0-type was mainly detected in severe-iGAS (0.0 vs. 45.5%, p = 0.045).ConclusionsThis study showed that multiple emm-types contributed to a 2022/2023 GAS infection increase in two hospitals in Milan, with no evidence of direct transmission chains. Specific emm-types could be associated with disease severity or invasiveness. Overall, these results support the integration of classical epidemiological studies with genomic investigation to appropriately manage severe infections and improve surveillance.

¿Pueden los delitos de apropiación recaer sobre bienes corporales sin una forma definida? El presente artículo tiene como objetivo exponer la particular situación en la que se encuentran bienes tales como el agua, la electricidad y el gas. El autor plantea la existencia de una exigencia de corporeidad o forma en cuanto al objeto de la acción penal, desarrollando los posibles fundamentos de esta exigencia a través de una comparación entre el derecho chileno y el derecho alemán, junto al análisis en particular de los delitos de usurpación de agua, sustracción de electricidad y sustracción de gas.

Objective Although person-centred outcome measures have been recommended to evaluate cognitive rehabilitation interventions, few validated measures have been developed for this purpose. The current study examined aspects of feasibility, reliability and validity of a modified version of goal attainment scaling that uses a goal menu, calculator and control goals. Method Participants were N=25 female residents of a substance use disorder therapeutic community who were allocated to a four-week cognitive remediation (n=13) or treatment as usual (n=12) control group in a controlled sequential groups trial. Modified goal attainment scaling was used to set goals. Limited efficacy and efficiency, quality appraisal criteria, and convergent and discriminant validity of target and control goals were used to examine feasibility, reliability and content validity, and construct validity, respectively. Results Target goals were achieved at a higher rate than control goals for the Intervention, but not Control, group, with a medium effect size (r = 0.5). The approach was efficient and 44% of reliability and 75% of content validity criteria were met. Target goals correlated more strongly than control goals with the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function - Adult version. Conclusions The modified approach to goal attainment scaling demonstrated aspects of feasibility, reliability and validity.

The Visegrad countries, as members of the EU, are implementing a common line to reduce oil and gas supplies from Russia. This is accompanied by a number of problems, since not all B4 countries equally have sufficient energy potential to ensure sustainable economic growth. In this regard, the article discusses the strategic steps and operational measures necessary to eliminate conflicts that arise in the course of the process of replacing Russian energy resources implemented by the Visegrad countries. The state and prospects of cooperation between the Visegrad countries in the field of nuclear energy are also being studied. Other energy sectors where the Russian presence in the form of supplied resources or participation in investment activities is minimal (i.e. hydropower, as well as the use of coal and renewable energy sources) are not considered. It was noted that the Visegrad countries apply different energy policy strategies, depending on the sufficiency of their own energy resources, the availability of coastal terminals, the development of energy transport infrastructure, and even on demonstrating a solidarity position on a number of pressing issues for the European Union.

Artificial improvement of coal seam permeability is the key to solve the low gas drainage efficiency and prevent gas dynamic disaster. Plasma based on physical discharge is one of the effective means of coal seam antireflection. However, previous studies focus on the characterization of pore-fissure structure of single breakdown, ignore the polarization effect of plasma on coal, and lack of in-depth research on the electrical properties and the evolution characteristics of pore-fissure structure under the action of cyclical plasma of loaded coal. In this paper, the cyclical plasma breakdown experiments of coal samples were carried out. The voltage and current waveforms in the process of coal breakdown were monitored thorough combining with high-voltage attenuation rod and the Roche coil, and the variation of electrical parameters such as pre-breakdown period, plasma breakdown period, number of wave peaks, peak voltage, peak current and energy conversion efficiency were analyzed. The evolution of small pores, medium pores, large pores and micro cracks under the conditions of 1, 5, 10, 15 and 20 times of breakdown was tested by NMR. The fractal dimension of seepage pore was also discussed through geometric fractal theory. The results show that the pre-breakdown period is at the level of thousands of microseconds only for the first time, and then it will drop to tens of microseconds, while the plasma breakdown period shows a “ladder” growth with the increase of breakdown times. The energy conversion efficiency is maintained at 28.7%−55.9%, showing a trend of rapid increase at first and then stable, indicating that the polarization effect of plasma on the electrical properties of coal is limited. The growth rate of medium and large pores is the most obvious, and some micro fracture structures will achieve a “0” breakthrough, indicating that plasma will significantly improve the seepage of gas. The fractal dimension shows a decreasing trend after breakdown, which proves that the originally isolated pore structure will be connected by the fracture from the perspective of pore fracture space dimension. The similarity between the change trend of porosity and energy conversion efficiency shows that plasma has an impact on the electrical properties of coal, and the change of coal electrical properties will also have an impact on the distribution of plasma channels.

Abstract Purpose To measure the proportion of unexplained and all causes of visual loss following primary rhegmatogenous-retinal-detachment (RRD) repair, comparing gas tamponade (SF6, C2F6, C3F8), silicone oil (SO, 1000cs and 5000cs) and heavy silicone oil (Densiron). Methods Retrospective, continuous, comparative study from 01/1/2017-31/5/2021. All primary RRDs were included after successful removal of SO and Densiron. Primary failures were excluded. Visual loss was defined as reduction of ≥0.30 logMAR units. Multivariable binary-logistic and linear regression models to compare tamponade, and all cases of unexplained visual loss and logMAR gain were performed. Covariates included age, ocular co-morbidities, pre-op vision, macula-status, high-myopia, giant-retinal-tear (GRT), perfluorocarbon-use, combined buckle/PPV, PVR-C, retinectomy, tamponade agent and post-operative lens status. Results Of 1,012 primary RRDs, we found an incidence of unexplained visual loss in 15/1012 (1.5%, SF6:1/341[0.3%], C2F6:4/338[1.2%], C3F8:2/239[0.8%], Densiron:0/33[0.0%], SO-1000cs:5/43[11.6%] and SO-5000cs:3/18[16.7%]), and visual loss of all causes in 57/1012 (5.6%, SF6:13/341[3.8%], C2F6:14/338[4.1%], C3F8:15/239[6.3%], Densiron:2/33[6.1%], SO-1000cs:9/43[20.9%] and SO-5000cs:4/18[22.2%]). On multivariable binary-logistic regression, we report that macula-on RRD (Odds-Ratio[OR]5.7,95% Confidence-interval[CI]1.2-28.2, p=0.032), GRT (OR35.0,CI 2.0-617.3, p=0.015), combined buckle/PPV (OR37.7,CI 2.0-711.4, p=0.015), SO1000cs (OR86.6,CI 5.6-1,348.0), p=0.001) and 5000cs (OR37.2,CI 1.3-1,101.5, p=0.036) (Reference-tamponade:SF6) were associated with unexplained visual loss. Duration of oil tamponade was not linked to increase in unexplained visual loss (p=0.569). Conclusions Correlation between SO in detachment repairs and unexplained visual loss has been established, however incidence with HSO has not been compared to other agents. This study demonstrates that although SO was linked with risk-adjusted increased unexplained visual loss relative to gas tamponade, no such association was found for Densiron, on multivariable analysis.

Использование средств информационных технологий и уровня автоматизации процессов управления значительно повышают роль технического прогресса и решают поставленные задачи Республикой Узбекистан по обеспечению целевым продуктом населению. Вместе с тем возможности современных компьютерных систем и развитие математических методов моделирования используются далеко не полностью из-за неформализации многих задач, а также несовершенства или отсутствия ряда алгоритмов, обеспечивающих возможность произвести анализ функционирования объекта, обработать поступающую информацию и принять соответствующие решения по оптимальному управлению многосвязных систем. В связи с этим разработка и исследование компьютерных моделей, вычислительных алгоритмов и на их основе создание объектно-ориентированных программных средств в этом направлении представляется актуальной проблемой дальнейшего развития автоматизации научных исследований для различных предметных областей, в частности трубопроводных систем. Всякая реальная энергетическая сеть, в том числе и газовая, по своей топологической структуре эквивалентна некоторому графу. Провести расчет и анализ несогласованности исходной информации сетей с более одним кольцом затруднительно. В этих случаях необходимо обратиться к законам Кирхгофа и соответствующим замыкающим соотношениям. Тем не менее, топология сети отличается разнообразием, чему свидетельствуют, в частности, схемы городских сетей теплоснабжения. В таких условиях основная тяжесть гидравлического или экономического расчета должна концентрироваться на стадии формирования топологии сети, для чего используются теории графов. В данной статье рассматриваются алгоритмы построения и оптимизации функционирования газопроводных многоконтурных сетей методом теории графов и программное обеспечение для оптимального управления, анализа и синтеза трубопроводных систем. Таким образом, разработанные вычислительные алгоритмы и компьютерная программа расчета можно применять для оптимизации функционирования газопроводных сетей, когда сеть имеет сложную лучистую и многокольцевую структуру.

Abstract The multiscale micro‐nano pores in coal can result in the ultra‐low permeability of coal, which restricts the efficiency of gas extraction. It is difficult for the conventional seepage‐enhancement measures to affect the nanoscale pores within the coal matrix. Thermal stimulation can reach deep into the micro‐nano pores within coal matrix to improve the permeability. Therefore, it is important to study the diffusivity and permeability of the multiscale micro‐nano pores at different temperatures. In this study, the experiments of diffusion‐seepage measured by the methods of GRI (Gas Research Institution) and steady‐state were conducted using a cylindrical coal at different temperatures and pressures. The experimental results show that the apparent diffusion coefficient of cylindrical coal is not constant but variable dynamically; and the classical diffusion model fails to describe the full‐time process of gas flow accurately. On this basis, a model of multiscale dynamic apparent diffusion‐seepage that can accurately describe the full‐time flow process was proposed. As is observed, the apparent permeability attenuates dynamically with time without stress loading, and the initial apparent permeability and the attenuation coefficient increase monotonically with the rise of temperature. Under the stress constraint, the steady‐state permeability increases after a decrease as the temperature rises, displaying a “U‐shaped” pattern. Without stress constraint, the increasing temperature causes the exterior multiscale pores to expand outward by different degrees so as to increase permeability, while the interior micro‐nano pores show three inward and outward expansion mechanisms. Under stress constraint, at low temperature and high effective stress, the increasing temperature causes pores to expand inward and the permeability decreases accordingly. When temperature continues to increase, coal expands outward because the effective stress is counteracted by the thermal stress, leading to an increase in permeability. This study is of significance for thermal gas extraction engineering.