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In this work, a new family of chromium complexes supported by bis(pyrazolyl)thioether/amine ligands containing pendant O‐ and N‐donor groups CrCl3{S‐bis[(3,5‐DMPz)methyl]sulfide} (2a), CrCl3{N‐bis[(3,5‐DMPz)benzylamine]} (2b), CrCl3{N‐bis[(3,5‐DMPz)butylamine]} (2c), [CrCl2{N‐bis[(3,5‐DMPz)methyl][(2‐pyridinyl)methyl]amine}]Cl (2d), [CrCl2{N‐bis[(3,5‐DMPz)methyl][quinoline]amine}]Cl (2e), [CrCl2{N‐bis[3,5‐DMPz‐methyl][EtNMe2]amine}]Cl (2f), CrCl3{N‐bis[(3,5‐DMPz)methyl][2‐methoxyphenyl]amine} (2g), and CrCl3{N‐bis[2‐(3,5‐DMPz)methyl][(2‐pyridyl)ethyl]amine} (2h) were synthetized and characterized by elemental analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations demonstrated that the pendant group as well as the spacer between the N‐donor group and the central amine nitrogen have strong influence on the coordination motif of the ligand. Thus, 1d–1f act as tetradentate ligands while 1g and 1h preferably coordinated to the chromium metal center in a tridentate [N,N,N] mode fashion. The catalytic performance of 2a–2h is strongly influenced by the nature of the central bridging atom (S, N) as well as the pendant O‐ and N‐donor group. Upon activation with methylaluminoxane (MAO), chromium precatalysts 2a–2c, 2e, and 2f generated active systems producing oligomers ranging from C4 to C12+ with a high selectivity for α‐olefins (>82.4%). On the other hand, precatalysts bearing pyridine (2d and 2h) and methoxy (2g) functionalized amine bis (pyrazolyl) ligands exclusively produce polyethylene (PE) with activities in the range of 107.2–372.0 kg of PE·mol[Cr]−1 h−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Annual fish species have evolved complex adaptations to survive in temporary wetlands. The main adaptation of these fish is the ability to produce embryos that survive dry periods. Embryo development of this fish can show variation at multiple levels influenced by many environmental factors, such as photoperiod and temperature. Predator cues are another factor that can influence the embryonic stage. One way in which annual fish could adapt to predators is by using risk‐spreading strategies (through bet‐hedging). Nonetheless, this strategy depends on the coevolutionary history between predators and preys and on the degree of environmental unpredictability, resulting in different responses across different species. This study investigated the influence of predator cues on the embryonic development and hatching of two Austrolebias species that inhabit ponds that present differences in hydroperiod and the risk of predator presence. The results confirmed a differentiated response between the two annual fish species tested, corroborating the modulation of hatching against the risk of predation by native predatory fish. The authors further showed that development times varied between the two annual fish species, regardless of the presence of predators. They highlight that the variation in embryonic development is strongly affected by different levels of hydroperiod unpredictability faced by the two species. To unravel finer‐scale local adaptations in the annual fish embryo development, future studies should focus on a region with greater spatial gradient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This in situ study evaluated the effect of high-fluoride dentifrice (5000 μg F−/g) and fluoride-containing bonding composite resin on enamel demineralization adjacent to orthodontic brackets. Methods: Ten volunteers wore palatal appliances containing bovine enamel blocks with metallic brackets bonded with fluoride-free or fluoride-containing composite resin. During three phases of 14 days each, three dentifrices with different fluoride concentrations (0, 1100, and 5000 μg F−/g) were tested. The cariogenic challenge consisted of 20% sucrose solution dripped 8x/day onto the dental blocks. At the end of each phase, biofilm formed was collected for fluoride analysis. Cross section hardness was performed in enamel blocks, and the lesion area was calculated. Data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey post hoc test (α = 5%). Results: The only signicant factor for all the variables under study was the dentifrice. Smaller lesion area and higher fluoride concentration on biofilm were found in 5000 μg F−/g group, irrespective of bonding composite resin (p < 0.001). Neither bracket-bonding composite resin nor the interaction between the factors was statistically significant (p > 0.05) for all the variables. Conclusion: High-fluoride dentifrice is effective in reducing demineralization on enamel adjacent to orthodontic brackets, while the fluoride-containing bonding composite resin does not influence it. Clinical Significance: Since high-fluoride dentifrice was able to reduce demineralization adjacent to brackets, it can be an option to caries management in orthodontics patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics are present in the environment, in drinking water, in human blood and there is evidence of nanoplastics in tap water. The objective of this work was to analyze the possibility of hemodialysis patients being contaminated by micro and nanoplastics (MNPs) during dialysis treatment. The motivation for this investigation is the fact that hemodialysis patients use about 300–600 L of drinking water per week, which may be contaminated by MNPs. A literature review, a field investigation in a London hospital and an estimation of MNPs intake in patients were carried out. The results showed potential points of risk of contamination of patients by MNPs in hemodialysis. It was also estimated that for a filtration efficiency of 99 % for MNPs, the amount of microplastics that can penetrate the kidneys of patients is 0.0021–3768 particles/week. The assessment concludes that hemodialysis patients are at high risk of MNP contamination. [Display omitted] • Hemodialysis (HD) water may be contaminated by micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs). • Failures in the HD water filtration systems can contaminate patients with MNPs. • Water storage tanks and distribution systems can be sources of MNPs for HD patients. • Estimates showed that high concentrations of MNPs can reach patients' kidney. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Structure-from-motion (SfM) algorithms greatly facilitate the production of detailed topographic models from photographs collected using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). However, the survey quality achieved in published geomorphological studies is highly variable, and sufficient processing details are never provided to understand fully the causes of variability. To address this, we show how survey quality and consistency can be improved through a deeper consideration of the underlying photogrammetric methods. We demonstrate the sensitivity of digital elevation models (DEMs) to processing settings that have not been discussed in the geomorphological literature, yet are a critical part of survey georeferencing, and are responsible for balancing the contributions of tie and control points. We provide a Monte Carlo approach to enable geomorphologists to (1) carefully consider sources of survey error and hence increase the accuracy of SfM-based DEMs and (2) minimise the associated field effort by robust determination of suitable lower-density deployments of ground control. By identifying appropriate processing settings and highlighting photogrammetric issues such as over-parameterisation during camera self-calibration, processing artefacts are reduced and the spatial variability of error minimised. We demonstrate such DEM improvements with a commonly-used SfM-based software (PhotoScan), which we augment with semi-automated and automated identification of ground control points (GCPs) in images, and apply to two contrasting case studies — an erosion gully survey (Taroudant, Morocco) and an active landslide survey (Super-Sauze, France). In the gully survey, refined processing settings eliminated step-like artefacts of up to ~ 50 mm in amplitude, and overall DEM variability with GCP selection improved from 37 to 16 mm. In the much more challenging landslide case study, our processing halved planimetric error to ~ 0.1 m, effectively doubling the frequency at which changes in landslide velocity could be detected. In both case studies, the Monte Carlo approach provided a robust demonstration that field effort could by substantially reduced by only deploying approximately half the number of GCPs, with minimal effect on the survey quality. To reduce processing artefacts and promote confidence in SfM-based geomorphological surveys, published results should include processing details which include the image residuals for both tie points and GCPs, and ensure that these are considered appropriately within the workflow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the degradation of the organophosphate pesticide profenofos in acidic medium using a gas diffusion electrode (GDE) modified with 5.0% cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPc). The degradation of profenofos was based on oxidation by H 2 O 2 electrogenerated in situ , and experiments were performed in the absence or presence of Fe(II) catalyst. Removal of the pesticide by anodic oxidation was minimal (~ 20%), and reached only 36% when H 2 O 2 was electrogenerated in the absence of catalyst. However, in the presence of 0.15 mmol L − 1 FeSO 4 ·7H 2 O (electro-Fenton reaction), profenofos removal attained 91% after 60 min of process time while total organic carbon (TOC) was reduced by 37%. Prolonged electrolysis under similar electro-Fenton conditions showed that 100% profenofos removal could be achieved after 2 h and a 89.9% reduction in TOC could be attained after 4 h. Analysis by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry of the by-products formed during the process revealed the progressive degradation of profenofos to o - and p -benzoquinone, with subsequent rupture of the aromatic ring to form oxalic acid and, ultimately, CO 2 and H 2 O. It is concluded that wastewater treatments involving H 2 O 2 electrogeneration in a CoPc-modified GDE were effective in removing profenofos and TOC from commercial formulations of profenofos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To systematically review the quality of evidence comparing the cardiopulmonary effects and quality of anesthesia after induction with alfaxalone vs. other anesthetic agents in dogs and cats. Studies published from 2001 until 20th May 2013 were identified with the terms 'alfaxan' OR 'alfaxalone' OR 'alphaxalone' in electronic databases: Discovery, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Wiley Interscience. The study design and risk of bias of all included studies were assessed. Twenty-two studies from 408 (22 of 408, 5.39%) satisfied the inclusion criteria. Fourteen studies (14 of 22, 64%) focused on dogs and nine (9 of 22, 40%) on cats. One study had both dogs and cats as subjects. (Hunt et al., 2013) Twelve studies were rated an LOE1, and six of these as ROB1. One, seven, and two studies were rated as LOE2, LOE3, and LOE5, respectively. In dogs, strong evidence shows that induction quality with either alfaxalone- HPCD or propofol is smooth. Moderate evidence supports this finding in cats. In dogs, moderate evidence shows that there is no significant change in heart rate after induction with either alfaxalone- HPCD or propofol. In cats, moderate evidence shows no significant difference in postinduction respiratory rate and heart rate between alfaxalone- HPCD and propofol induction. Strong evidence shows dogs and cats have smooth recoveries after induction using either alfaxalone- HPCD or propofol, before reaching sternal recumbency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly efficient H 2 O 2 electrogeneration is required in the Advanced Oxidation Process for organic wastewater treatment. However, the development of more efficient catalytic particles used in gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs) to enable the oxygen reduction reaction through two-electron transfer is still of great importance. The performance of the Ta 2 O 5 nanoparticles on carbon black in catalyzing the ORR was evaluated using rotating ring-disk electrode. The current efficiency for H 2 O 2 electrogeneration on Ta 2 O 5 /C catalyst is 83.2% whereas carbon black exhibits 65.3%. GDEs were constructed using carbon black either unmodified or modified with Ta 2 O 5 nanoparticles. The modified GDE produces 27.9 mg L −1 of H 2 O 2 , while the unmodified GDE generates 19.1 mg L −1 of H 2 O 2 . Furthermore, the energy consumption for the H 2 O 2 electrogeneration is lower in modified than in unmodified GDE (15.0 kW h vs. 18.8 kW h). The high performance of the GDE (Ta 2 O 5 /C) renders it a viable alternative cathode in the electrochemical treatment of wastewaters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors discuss aspects of bariatric surgery for reproductive-age women. Topics include the two main types of bariatric surgical procedure such as restrictive and malabsorptive procedures, effects of bariatric surgery in women planning to become pregnant, and incidence of bariatric surgery for reproductive-age women in Australia.

We describe a framework for deriving sequences of digital elevation models (DEMs) for the analysis of active lava flows using oblique stereo-pair time-lapse imagery. A photo-based technique was favoured over laser-based alternatives due to low equipment cost, high portability and capability for network expansion, with images of advancing flows captured by digital SLR cameras over durations of up to several hours. However, under typical field scale scenarios, relative camera orientations cannot be rigidly maintained (e.g. through the use of a stereo bar), preventing the use of standard stereo time-lapse processing software. Thus, we trial semi-automated DEM-sequence workflows capable of handling the small camera motions, variable image quality and restricted photogrammetric control that result from the practicalities of data collection at remote and hazardous sites. The image processing workflows implemented either link separate close-range photogrammetry and traditional stereo-matching software, or are integrated in a single software package based on structure-from-motion (SfM). We apply these techniques in contrasting case studies from Kilauea volcano, Hawaii and Mount Etna, Sicily, which differ in scale, duration and image texture. On Kilauea, the advance direction of thin fluid lava lobes was difficult to forecast, preventing good distribution of control. Consequently, volume changes calculated through the different workflows differed by ∼10% for DEMs (over ∼30 m 2 ) that were captured once a minute for 37 min. On Mt. Etna, more predictable advance (∼3 m h −1 for ∼3 h) of a thicker, more viscous lava allowed robust control to be deployed and volumetric change results were generally within 5% (over ∼500 m 2 ). Overall, the integrated SfM software was more straightforward to use and, under favourable conditions, produced results comparable to those from the close-range photogrammetry pipeline. However, under conditions with limited options for photogrammetric control, error in SfM-based surfaces may be difficult to detect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing travelling-wave fault-location methods are known to perform poorly on branched networks. In this paper, a new fault-location method for use on highly branched networks is demonstrated. The method is based on the retrieval of global positioning system time-stamped arrival times of the fault-induced high-frequency transient. It is shown that for an unambiguous estimation of the fault location, a time-stamp is required from a fault recorder located in each of the two directions from the fault position; therefore, complete coverage of a network can be achieved with a fault recorder on each branch termination. The system is also capable of locating the origin of incipient faults and, therefore, provides a means of detecting potential future faults so remedial action can be taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new synthetic route to arylchalcogenyl‐sulfonate ligands (E,SO) (E = Se, S) and the synthesis and ethylene reactivity of two new nickel complexes [NiCl(py)(E,SO)] (Ni1, E = Se; Ni2, E = S) are reported. The minimum energy structures of the complexes were determined by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. For both compounds, the triplet and singlet 1 structures (with Cl trans to chalcogen) are higher in energy compared with singlet 2 (with Cl cis to chalcogen). Under initial catalytic condition (MAO, [Al/Ni] = 300, time = 20 min, T = 30°C) complex Ni1 oligomerizes ethylene with turnover frequencies (TOF) of 32.6 × 103 (mol ethylene) (mol Ni)−1 (h)−1 with 81.3% of 1‐butene production. The use of different cocatalyst systems (MAO/TMA or MAO/TiBA in an equimolar ratio) led to lower activities and poor selectivity for 1‐C4. Under optimized reaction conditions (MAO, [Al/Ni] = 600, time = 20 min, T = 30°C), the phenylthionyl complex Ni2 was 1.7 times more active than the phenylselenyl analog, with TOF of 72.3 × 103 (mol ethylene) (mol Ni)−1 (h)−1 with 84.3% of 1‐butene selectivity. DFT calculations suggest that the lowest lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy and highest natural charge at the Ni center could be associated to the higher activity of Ni2 compared with the phenylselenyl analog Ni1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Questions Are organic rice crops better than convention crops for aquatic plant conservation? We tested three hypotheses: (1) richness, diversity and biomass of aquatic macrophytes are higher in organic rice fields than in conventional ones; (2) aquatic macrophyte species composition in organic rice fields is more similar to that of natural wetlands than to conventional rice fields; and (3) aquatic macrophyte richness, diversity, biomass and species composition in natural wetlands will differ from those of organic and conventional rice fields. Location Coastal plain of southern Brazil. Methods We sampled macrophytes at four conventional crops, four organic crops and four natural intermittent wetlands. We sampled at six different times at each site throughout the rice cultivation cycle. Results A total of 55 species was recorded in natural wetlands and 36 species in rice fields, with 23 found in conventional crops and 27 found in organic crops. The richness, biomass and species composition of macrophytes was similar in the two rice production systems and lower than that of natural wetlands over the cultivation cycle studied. Species composition of natural wetlands differed from that of rice crops mainly through the presence of hydrophytes and rushes. Conclusions Some macrophyte species used rice crops as a complementary habitat, but diversity was lower and composition was different from that of natural wetlands. Both conventional and organic systems negatively impacted macrophyte biodiversity. However, the similar richness and biomass of plants in organic and conventional crops indicated that natural techniques with less impact could be efficient in reducing undesirable plant diversity in agricultural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Parabens have been widely used in different industries and can be found in health and personal care products. They are esters of p-hydroxy-benzoic acid associated with breast tumors and classified as endocrine disruptors. This study describes the galvanostatic electrochemical oxidation of methyl paraben (MePa) on a boron-doped diamond anode using current densities in the 1.35 to 21.6mAcm−2 range. The degradation process can be controlled by either charge transfer or mass transport, according to the experimental conditions and rate of mineralization of MePa increased by the current density. The concentration variation as a function of electrolysis time showed that the degradation kinetics follows a pseudo first-order law. A mechanism for the MePa degradation based on reactive intermediates determined by gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is also proposed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Methane fed TiO2/RuO2/PTFE gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs) have been used for the electrosynthesis of methanol in 0.1molL−1 of Na2SO4 supporting electrolyte. By-products such as formaldehyde and formic acid are usually also formed during electrolyses, with the latter formed at a similar rate as that of methanol. In this study, V2O5 was added to the composition of the GDE to improve its selectivity for methanol. TiO2/RuO2/V2O5 powder hot-pressed with PTFE resulted in a GDE suitable for oxidative electrosynthesis with simultaneous oxygen evolution. By feeding the TiO2/RuO2/V2O5/PTFE GDE with methane, it was possible to enhance its selectivity for methanol at low values of current density. Furthermore, the formation of formic acid and formaldehyde was suppressed, allowing for higher current efficiencies. The addition of 5.6% of V2O5 increased the electrode''s current efficiency to 57% at 2.0V, which is 2-fold higher than the efficiency achieved in the absence of vanadium oxide. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Every pregnancy is a unique experience for a woman; an experience which may be complicated at any stage. The following case study reflects on the care given to a woman re-admitted to hospital during the postnatal period with puerperal sepsis. This condition has a long history in midwifery and obstetrics and has recently re-emerged as a major cause of maternal death. Midwives must be vigilant in order to reduce the risks posed by puerperal sepsis. Potential avenues of research must be explored to offer women the best evidence-based care. The recent development of national guidelines is necessary to inform practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Every pregnancy is a unique experience for a woman; an experience which may be complicated at any stage. The following case study reflects on the care given to a woman re-admitted to hospital during the postnatal period with puerperal sepsis. This condition has a long history in midwifery and obstetrics and has recently re-emerged as a major cause of maternal death. Midwives must be vigilant in order to reduce the risks posed by puerperal sepsis. Potential avenues of research must be explored to offer women the best evidence-based care. The recent development of national guidelines is necessary to inform practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose:To review the management of pregnancy after an unexplained stillbirth.Epidemiology:Approximately 1 in 200 pregnancies will end in stillbirth, of which about one-third will remain unexplained. Unexplained stillbirth is the largest single contributor to perinatal mortality. Subsequent pregnancies do not appear to have an increased risk of stillbirth, but are characterized by increased rates of intervention (induction of labor, elective cesarean section) and iatrogenic adverse outcomes (low birth weight, prematurity, emergency cesarean section and post-partum hemorrhage).Conclusions:There is no level-one evidence to guide management in this situation. Pre-pregnancy counseling is very important to detect and correct potential risk factors such as obesity, smoking and maternal disease. As timely delivery is the mainstay of management, early accurate determination of gestational age is vital. There is controversy regarding the pattern of surveillance, but evidence exists only for ultrasound and not for regular non-stress testing, nor formal fetal movement charting. There is an urgent need for more studies in this important area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The minimum age restriction for entry onto nursing courses of 17.5 years has recently been removed. Students of 16 and 17 years could potentially be on nurse education programmes and therefore in clinical practice in the very near future. This could be a beginning of a trend, and might be influenced by the current economic climate affecting education and employment. This article outlines the context of the situation, and describes the strategy taken by one higher education institution in conjunction with clinical practice providers to devise processes and protocols in readiness for young people applying to enter nurse education. Clinical practice concerns are discussed, with emphasis on implications for risk assessments. The authors presented the key findings at the Royal College of Nursing Admissions Tutors Conference on 7 November 2008, where considerable interest was generated in the issues arising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a process for utilising the waste that remains when all of the economically reclaimable materials have been recovered from automobiles that have reached the end of their lives. This waste material, known as automotive shredder residue (ASR), is currently disposed of in landfill sites but forthcoming environmental legislation in the European Union and elsewhere will drastically restrict the amount that can be disposed of in this way. By 2015, 80% of the ASR currently going to landfill must be recycled.The dual injection moulding process is used to mould a skin of virgin polymer over a compound containing the ASR which forms the core of a new component. Polypropylene (PP) was used as the skin material and also as the material to compound with the ASR. A 50%/50% mix by volume of PP and ASR granules was found to produce good results as the core material.Experiments were performed to vary the skin to core ratio in order to establish the effect of varying the proportion of ASR on the mechanical properties of mouldings. It was found that mouldings produced containing 25% by volume of ASR were visually excellent due to the pure PP skin. Inclusion of higher proportions of ASR by decreasing the skin:core thickness ratio was found to produce “breakthrough” of the ASR particles into the skin and test results were highly inconsistent. Using smaller proportions of ASR can be predicted to produce better mechanical properties but would have been contrary to the aim of developing a process capable of disposing of large quantities of ASR.It is concluded that recycling of ASR by using it as a core material in the dual injection moulding process is a feasible option for mouldings requiring good visual appearance but is not suited to components requiring significant strength. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The RCOG (2001) recommend external cephalic version (ECV) for breech presentation at term. When practised at term ECV has been shown to be safe and effective avoiding the associated risks of a vaginal breech delivery for the fetus and caesarean section for the mother. However, despite evidence of benefit, the provision of ECV varies due to lack of appropriately trained medical staff available to perform this procedure safely and effectively. This article describes the introduction of a midwife-led ECV service at the Royal Victoria Infirmary Newcastle and includes the preparation and rationale for expanding the midwife's role, the training undertaken and results of independent clinical practice. The authors report a midwife success rate of 43%, which is comparable to that of an experienced obstetrician. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apart from some irregularities reflecting changes in permit costs (1975) and the effects of drought (1976), there were increases in angler-visits, catch per angler-visit and number of fish caught during the first 5 years of the fishery. Thereafter, there were about 1000–1500 angler-visits per season, a mean catch of 1.0–1.2 trout per angler-visit and an annual catch of 1200–1800 trout. Between 1971 and 1980 the mean weight of the fish caught fell from 472 to 349 g. During the period 1976–1980 the mean catch per angler-visit was 1.2 fish. This compares favourably with results from a selection of upland and lowland British reservoirs. The mean weight of individual trout caught was 362 kg and this value is typical of both stocked and unstocked upland reservoirs. The mean annual catch during 1976–1980 was about 2 kg ha-1. This is similar to the values observed in other unstocked upland reservoirs. The gross yield from such reservoirs can be increased by stocking but the limited data available suggest that at stocking rates above about 5 kg ha-1 the net yield (i.e. weight caught — weight stocked) becomes negative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper examines data on concentration (quantity per unit volume of water) and transport (quantity passing a point per unit time) of suspended peat and animal drift relative to discharge in a small north Pennine stream. Within individual spates, suspended peat concentration and animal drift (in terms of numbers) peaked before the discharge but animal drift concentration (in terms of weight) remained high during the discharge peak, and mean weight per drift animal peaked at the same time as the discharge. The differences in time of peaking of animal drift, as between weight and numbers, reflect the fact that the concentration of most of the aquatic components of the drift was depressed during the spate peak but that the concentration of most of the aquatic components of the drift was depressed during the spate peak but that the concentration of terrestrial material (of greater mean weight individual−1) peaked with the discharge. Data from 212 sampling units were used to examine the relationships between peat concentration/transport and stream discharge. The best fits were to power law relationships between concentration and discharge and transport and discharge. However, a logistic curve relating log10 discharge and log10 transport was also a good fit. A similar analysis of the data for concentration/transport of animals in suspension showed significant positive correlations between concentration/transport in terms of animal numbers and discharge and suggests power law relationships. Animal concentration/transport, in terms of weights, were also positively correlated with discharge but the relationships were exponential. The results show that at least 80% of the peat transported annually by the stream was carried by spates of over 5.6 times the annual mean discharge. These spates occupied less than 3% of the total time in the year, but accounted for 30% of the annual discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Bacteria producing Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemases (KPCs) are rapidly emerging as a cause of multidrug-resistant infections worldwide. KPCs enzyme are plasmid-borne and can accumulate and transfer resistance determinants to other classes of antibiotics.We report two cases of KPC-2 carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates from Cystic Fibrosis patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate whether a recombinant serine protease inhibitor (rBmTI-A) modulates inflammation in an experimental model of chronic allergic lung inflammation. Balb/c mice were divided into four groups: SAL (saline), OVA (sensitized with ovalbumin), SAL + rBmTI-A (control treated with rBmTI-A) and OVA + rBmTI-A (sensitized with ovalbumin and treated with rBmTI-A). The animals received an intraperitoneal injection of saline or ovalbumin, according to the group. The groups received inhalation with saline or ovalbumin and were treated with rBmTI-A or saline by nasal instillation. After 29 days, we evaluated the respiratory mechanics; bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF); cytokines; MMP-9, TIMP-1; eosinophils; collagen and elastic fibre expression in the airways; and the trypsin-like, MMP-1, and MMP-9 lung tissue proteolytic activity. Treatment with rBmTI-A reduced the trypsin-like proteolytic activity, the elastance and resistance maximum response, the polymorphonuclear cells, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13 and IL-17A in the BALF, the expression of IL-5, IL-13, IL-17, CD4+, MMP-9, TIMP-1, eosinophils, collagen and elastic fibres in the airways of the OVA + rBmTI-A group compared to the OVA group (p < 0.05). rBmTI-A attenuated bronchial hyperresponsiveness, inflammation and remodelling in this experimental model of chronic allergic pulmonary inflammation. This inhibitor may serve as a potential therapeutic tool for asthma treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Diabetes mellitus is the largest epidemic disease of the 21 st century and the International Diabetes Federation estimated that around 415 million people were diagnosed as diabetic by the year 2015; the projections for 2035 estimate that there will be 592 million in the World. Hyperglycemia, characteristic of this disease activates several pathways that in association with mitochondrial dysfunction culminate in the exacerbated production of reactive oxygen species. A previous study in our laboratory showed that oxidative stress was associated with an increases synthesis and activation of the P2X 7 receptor (P2X 7 R), at the 8th week of diabetes, but the exact moment when its production become significant remains unknown. Purpose of this study is to evaluate the first moment in which P2X 7 R becomes highly expressed in the earliest phase of diabetes. Methods Male Wistar rats at 7 weeks of age were all nephrectomized unilaterally. In half of the animals the diabetes was induced with streptozotocin (60mg/kg, i.v.) (DM), the others received its vehicle (CTL). After 24h of induction diabetes was confirmed as glycemia > 200mg/dL. The animals were euthanized on the first and subsequent weeks of diabetes up to eighth week and the kidney was collected and stored in a freezer at -80°C. The renal cortex was homogenized for Western blotting and quantified by polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The results were analyzed with ANOVA of repeated measures with significance determined for p <0.05. RESULTS: Our qPCR data showed that only after the third week there was a decrease in P2X 7 mRNA levels; however, in the sixth week of diabetes a significant increase in the mRNA synthesis was observed in DM group when compared to CTL; in the seventh and eighth weeks it presented a progressive decrease of these levels. The protein profile (Western blot) was similar to the qPCR data; in the first five weeks of DM, the P2X 7 protein production was lower, but at the sixth week there was a significant increase in protein content for this receptor. Conclusion: Our preliminary data suggest that in the sixth week of diabetes the first and significant increase of the P2X 7 gene expression and protein occurred. This is perhaps the main initial mark of the damage which can be caused by this receptor, as part of diabetes pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determines whether the 1989 Saint Vincent declaration target of diabetic pregnancy outcome approximating non-diabetic pregnancy outcome is near to being achieved. High fetal loss rate; Congenital malformation rate for diabetic pregnancy; Effect of the lack of a standardized measure of diabetic control.

The authors comment on an article within the issue about significance of external cephalic version (ECV) in reducing the risk of caesarean section. Topics discussed include cost-effectiveness of the method, incorporation of midwife sonography into several care pathways in Great Britain, and need of collaborative working relationships between obstetricians and midwives.

Although the ecological impacts of recreational activities in clear tropical streams are occasionally acknowledged and addressed, frequently they remain unmanaged, despite the fact that such streams are highly sought-after destinations for leisure pursuits. Here, we provide a case study on the ecological characteristics of the Indo-Pacifc freshwater pipefsh Microphis leiaspis Bleeker, 1854, which is a habitat specialist with little available information aside from its reproductive biology and the downstream migration patterns of its larvae. Drawing from our collective experiences, we describe the distribution and habitat of Microphis leiaspis and examine the potential impacts of various small-scale human activities on its livelihood, including those occurring within protected areas. In particular, we document incidental observations of human disturbances to adult Microphis leiaspis habitat in clear freshwater streams located within the Australian Wet Tropics (AWT) World Heritage Area. Using these observations as a foundation, we conceptualize human interactions with this species in the AWT streams and more broadly across the tropical Indo-Pacifc Ocean. Microphis leiaspis occurs in the lower-mid course of short-steep-coastal-streams, in association with pebble felds, where it feeds on microscopic benthic invertebrates. We observed three distinct human behaviours in the pipefsh habitat within the AWT, including stone-stacking, the construction of boulder-cobble dams, and stone-skimming. Additionally, we report on other small-scale human activities that may potentially impact this pipefsh species in streams across Pacifc Island nations and select coastal regions of continents. Our recommendation is to promote a 'leave no trace' approach to the public, which can be effectively communicated by key individuals such as indigenous custodians, national park managers, locals, and tourism operators. This approach aims to minimize rock movement by people, thereby aiding in the protection of diadromous pipefsh and other aquatic species residing in short-steep-coastal-streams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Diagnose and quantify the presenteeism and its relations with cooperation in the reality of a public research organization. Originality/value: This study is an initiative to face the current challenge of measuring presenteeism through inclusive approaches, providing actionable information about this behaviour and integrating multidisciplinary knowledge in order to understand the factors that influence it and the factors that are influenced by it, as well as how the presenteeism affects productivity at work. Design/methodology/approach: The study was conducted in a public research organization with the purpose of to diagnose the reality of the organization in terms of presenteeism and cooperation by using analytical methods. Findings: The following results were obtained: 1. metrics on the general levels of presenteeism and cooperation; 2. levels of presenteeism and cooperation in each of the studied team; 3. correlations between presenteeism and cooperation; and 4. possible influence factors in the levels of presenteeism and cooperation. In summary, when recognizing the interconnectivity between presenteeism and cooperation and the relevance of a strategic management of the human capital that considers its specificities and integrates its biunivocal and inversely proportional content, this study presents empirical evidence that supports the relation between both phenomena and validates ways to diagnose and quantify their impacts in the organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Umbilical hernia is a common complication in patients with cirrhosis. Early studies have reported a high morbidity and mortality associated with hernia repair. The traditional approach has been to non-operatively manage umbilical hernias in patients with cirrhosis. There are emerging data suggesting that an elective repair is a preferable approach. This study examined the outcomes of umbilical hernia repair in patients with advanced liver disease and compared this with a control group of non-cirrhotic patients.Methods: Prospective data were collected regarding the outcome of umbilical hernia repairs performed between 2004 and 2013 at the Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia. Outcomes at 90 days were compared between patients with and without cirrhosis.Results: 79 patients with cirrhosis and 249 controls were analysed. Of the patients with cirrhosis, 9% were classified as Child-Pugh A, 61% were Child-Pugh B and 30% were Child-Pugh C. Emergency repairs for complicated hernias was undertaken in 18% of the cirrhosis population and 10% in controls (P = 0.10). Post-operative complications occurred more commonly in patients with cirrhosis (26%) compared with controls (11%) (P < 0.01). Emergency hernia repairs were associated with a higher complication rate in both patients with cirrhosis (62%) and controls (20%) (P = 0.01). There was no significant difference in the rate of hernia recurrence as assessed by clinical examination between patients with cirrhosis (2.7%) and controls (6.8%) (P = 0.17) nor in 90-day mortality between patients with cirrhosis (n = 1, 1.3%) and the controls (n = 0) (P = 0.43).Conclusions: Within the limitations of a small study cohort and therefore an underpowered study, elective surgical repair of umbilical hernias in patients with cirrhosis, including decompensated cirrhosis, may not be associated with a significant increase in mortality when compared to a control cohort. Whilst complications are higher in cirrhotic patients, there is no difference in the rate of hernia recurrence. Emergency repairs of umbilical hernias are associated with a high complication rate in cirrhotic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work proposes a simple, fast and low-cost voltammetric method for the determination of trimethoprim at low concentrations in an analytical and real matrix (river water sample, bovine serum and synthetic urine). For this, a glassy carbon electrode was modified with Printex(6L) carbon and gold nanoparticles in a chitosan film crosslinked with epichlorohydrin. After that, the electrochemical measurement system contained a solution of phosphate buffer at pH 4.0 with commands for the square wave voltammetry technique. The results achieved showed a limit of detection equal to 12.4 nmol L−1 and a linear concentration range from 0.20 to 6.0 μmol L−1. The sensor selectivity was tested in the presence of various electroactive molecules, and the results showed that the detection of TMP in the presence of possible interferents was not masked. In addition, the applicability of the AuNPs–Printex(6L)–CTS:EPH/GCE sensor was also verified in synthetic samples of urine, bovine serum and river water through standard addition and recovery tests. Finally, the results of this analytical proposal portray a simple, fast and efficient method for the detection of TMP in different matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to optimize the acid-catalyzed conversion of glucose into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) in an aqueous medium using niobic acid (NbO), niobium phosphate (NbP) and a mixture of both solid acid catalysts. A simplex-centroid mixture design was applied to optimize the mixture ratio between NbO and NbP. A central composite design was applied to process optimization. The studied variables were temperature (T), time (t) and substrate to catalyst weight ratio (R S/C ). The mixture design revealed excellent glucose conversion (55%) and HMF selectivity (56%) when the weight ratio between NbO and NbP was equal to 1:1. The experimental results demonstrate that a mixture of both solid acids provides a better combination of Brønsted and Lewis acidity for effective glucose dehydration into HMF than each individual catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a novel strategy for boosting both surface acidic properties and textural features of a series of activated carbons from petiole of Mauritia flexuosa Linnaeus fillius, a lignocellulosic biomass waste. The structure, state and concentration of lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose into the selected precursor underwent a reconfiguration protocol aiming at tunning surface features of the carbons-based catalyst chemically activated with H 3 PO 4. In fact, the modified precursors gave rise to activated carbons that boast surface area of up to 2349 m2.g−1 and total acidity ranging from 2.22 to 3.13 mmol.g−1, making them suitable candidate to promote the conversion of glycerol to solketal. The catalysts were successfully applied in the solvent-free acetalization of glycerol with acetone achieving glycerol conversion higher than 83% (selectivity around 98% toward solketal) with remarkable turnover frequencies as well as a notable reusability in consecutive runs. Further, it was noticed that the diversity of acid strength of the reactive sites played an important role in each step of the reaction mechanism synergically improving catalytic performance. The physicochemical and surface chemistry properties of the activated carbons were characterized by means of N 2 adsorption/desorption isotherms, thermal analysis, elemental analysis, surface functional groups titration, X-rays diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and FTIR spectroscopy. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new electrode for the photoelectrochemical removal of 17β-estradiol from water using ruthenium oxide nanoparticles supported on reduced graphene oxide is proposed in this study. The morphology, microstructure and the electrochemical performance of the material were characterized using HRTEM, XRD and Raman spectroscopy. The characterization showed the formation of reduced graphene oxide from a micro-wave assisted hydrothermal method with a particle size of 5.0 nm + 2.4 nm. The electrochemical measurements point to a high performance of the electrode in the presence of a white light source. The hormone removal efficiency in water containing 50 μmol L −1 of 17β-estradiol was evaluated using chronoamperometry at +1.0 V and the process was monitored using liquid chromatography. The reaction is pseudo first order with the removal of 92.2% of 17β-estradiol after 60 min of photoelectrocatalytic treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents an obituary for Kenneth Cranston, dentist and cricket captain.