Primary Organic Matter Research Articles

Use of Temporary Double-J Stent Placement for Children With Congenital Hydronephrosis: A Long-Term Single-Center Cohort Study

ObjectiveTo evaluate the utilization of double-J stents in children with congenital hydronephrosis in order to avoid or postpone more invasive surgical intervention. Numerous studies have demonstrated that congenital hydronephrosis caused by ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) or primary obstructive megaureter (POM) may require a surgical correction in up to 20% of cases. MethodsAll infants with severe hydronephrosis and/or an obstructive pattern on renal scintigraphy that received double-J stent placement between 2010 to 2015 in our center were analyzed. Children were followed regularly with ultrasound and received antibiotic metaphylaxis. Urinary tract infection (UTI) and double-J dislocation were defined as complications. Treatment success was defined as avoidance of surgery and reduction of hydronephrosis to grade 1 or 0 during the observation period. Results29 children were included, in these, 34 (23 UPJO, 7 POM, 4 UPJO and POM) treatment attempts were performed. Stent implantation failed in six cases, resulting in 28 double-J stent treatments, of which 19 (69%) were successful within the follow-up period of 20 to 104 months. The most common complications were febrile UTI in 6 of29 cases and double-J dislocation in 3 of 29 cases. ConclusionDuring the observation period, the success rate of temporary double-J in urodynamically relevant obstruction was relatively high. However, urinary tract infections and a complex disease course due to renal stent dislocation, as well as the need for repeated anesthesia and radiation exposure, should be taken into account. Hence, we do not recommend double-J stents placement in all children with congenital hydronephrosis; it may be useful in selected cases.

Minimally invasive ureteral reimplantation or endoscopic management for primary obstructive megaureter: a narrative review of technical modifications and clinical outcomes.

Primary obstructive megaureter (POM) has various courses in different age populations. Although open ureteral reimplantation (OUR) remains the standard treatment for symptomatic POM, it is highly invasive with potential complications. In recent years, minimally invasive ureteral reimplantation (MIUR), including laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation (LUR) and robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation (RALUR), and endoscopic management, such as double-J stent insertion, endoureterotomy and endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD), have been utilized for POM in selected patients. However, few comparable studies between MIUR and endoscopic management have been published to date, and it remains unclear which surgical management is the optimal choice for POM in different age groups. This review provides a comprehensive perspective on technical development and clinical outcomes of MIUR and endoscopic management for POM in pediatric and adult populations. The PubMed and Web of Science databases were used to comprehensively search English language articles related to MIUR and endoscopic management for POM in pediatric and adult populations up to March 2022. The technical modifications and the relevant clinical outcomes were reviewed. MIUR with various technical modifications related to intracorporeal suturing and ureteroneocystostomy with anti-reflux techniques appears to be as safe and effective for POM in different age groups as the open procedure. Double-J stent insertion should be regarded as a temporary option for infants by achieving internal urinary drainage, as it may present limited success rates and various complications. Endoureterotomy using pure cutting current or laser appears to be a safer, easier, and less invasive alternative to open surgical management. While EBD has emerged as a definite treatment for POM in the pediatric population, it is debatable whether EBD can substitute for MIUR in adult patients. The safety and feasibility of MIUR and endoscopic management in patients from all age groups still need further investigation.

Efficacy and Safety of Endoscopic Balloon Dilatation for Treatment of Primary Obstruction Megaurater Up to 2 Years of Age

Endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD) can be performed with different catheters and its durability is still controversial. The study aimed to compare long-term results of EBD performed <20 months of age using balloons of 4 mm vs. 6 mm in diameter. Retrospective study conducted of consecutive patients with unilateral primary obstructive megaureter (POM) undergoing EBD <24 months of age by two surgeons from January 2020 to January 2022. The technique was consistent, but for balloon diameter was 5 mm in group A vs. 6 mm in group B. End-points included peri-operative complications, success rate (improving dilatation and non-obstructive drainage on 9-month scintigraphy), and long-term outcome (need for reimplantation and diameter of retrovesical ureter at last ultrasound). The procedure was completed in all planned patient. Group A included 30 patients and Group B 60 patients. Groups were not significantly different for age (p < 0.09), gender (p < 0.1), laterality (p < 0.7), and preoperative median ureteral diameter (p Z 0.08). No perioperative complications occurred. Four group A patients required a cutting balloon to achieve a satisfactory dilatation of the vesicoureteral junction (p Z 0.009). After a median (range) follow-up of 70 (19e155) months, success rate was 73.3% vs. 83.3% (p Z 0.45), 4/15 group A and 5/30 group B patients required reimplantation within 2 years of EBD. In successful cases, median (range) ureteral diameter at last follow-up was 6 (0-17) mm vs. 5 (0-16) mm, which was significantly better than preoperative value (p Z 0.003 and p < 0.001, respectively), but not significantly different (p Z 0.8) between groups. EBD is an umbrella term that encompasses many technical variations, which can be key for success. Although limited by the small numbers and the comparison of patients treated over two subsequent periods, this is the first study focusing on the role of balloon size. The diameter of the balloon did not influence significantly long-term results, but the 6 mm balloon slightly increased the success rate of EBD to 83.3% and eliminated the need for cutting balloons to achieve a satisfactory dilatation.

Markers Прогнозування перебігу первинного обструктивного мегауретера в дітей з використанням маркерів оксидативного стресу

Currently, minimally invasive methods of diagnosis and treatment are being actively developed and implemented in pediatric urology, based on immunological and biochemical studies of the state of both the tubular apparatus of the kidney parenchyma and the organs of the entire urinary system. Purpose - to study clinical and laboratory diagnostic methods that will allow predicting the effectiveness of treatment based on indicators of the functional state of organs of the urinary system. Materials and methods. The blood serum of 130 children aged 1 to 48 months was tested: 15 children treated endoscopically; 28 children treated by open surgical method; 87 children without urinary tract obstruction. Results. In the comparative analysis of markers of oxidative destruction of proteins (aldehydephenylhydrazone - APH, ketonphenylhydrazone - KPH) and nitric oxide metabolites (nitric monoxide - NO, NO synthase - NOS) before and 3-6 months after the restoration of urodynamics, a decrease in the manifestations of oxidative stress was revealed, in particular, NO - in 58.13%, NOS - in 51.16%, APH - in 69.76%, KPH - in 69.76%. Despite the improvement of urodynamics, the absence of positive dynamics of markers of oxidative destruction of proteins (APH and KPH) in 30.23%, nitric oxide metabolites (NO - in 34.88%, NOS - in 41.86%) indicates that the functional capacity of the kidneys in a certain number of patients does not improve. Conclusions. The study of the content of markers of oxidative stress and the state of the antioxidant system, namely the concentration of NO, NOS, APH and КPH in the blood serum of children after correction of urodynamics are informative markers of the functional state of the kidney. The given data indicate the need for early diagnosis of primary obstructive megaureter in children and the use of staged treatment depending on the degree of urodynamic decompensation. When determining the evaluation of the effectiveness of the treatment, it is the indicators of the functional state of the organs of the urinary system that should be taken into account as the main markers of a positive or negative result of the child’s treatment. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the participating institution. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.

Endoscopic balloon dilatation for the treatment of primary obstructive megaureter

Endoscopic balloon dilatation (EBD) can be performed with different catheters and its durability is still controversial. This study aimed to compare long-term results of EBD performed <24 months of age using balloons of 4mm vs. 6mm in diameter. Retrospective study of consecutive patients with unilateral primary obstructive megaureter (POM) undergoing EBD <24 months of age by two surgeons from 01/2009 to 12/2020. The technique was consistent, but for balloon diameter, which was 4mm in group A vs. 6mm in group B. End-points included peri-operative complications, success rate (improving dilatation and non-obstructive drainage on 9-month scintigraphy), and long-term outcome (need for reimplantation and diameter of retrovesical ureter at last ultrasound). The procedure was completed in all planned patient. Group A included 15 patients and Group B 30 patients. Groups were not significantly different for age (p<0.09), gender (p <0.1), laterality (p <0.7), and preoperative median ureteral diameter (p =0.08). No perioperative complications occurred. Four group A patients required a cutting balloon to achieve a satisfactory dilatation of the vesicoureteral junction (p =0.009). After a median (range) follow-up of 70 (19-155) months, success rate was 73.3% vs. 83.3% (p =0.45), 4/15 group A and 5/30 group B patients required reimplantation within 2 years of EBD. In successful cases, median (range) ureteral diameter at last follow-up was 6 (0-17) mm vs. 5 (0-14) mm, which was significantly better than preoperative value (p =0.003 and p<0.001, respectively), but not significantly different (p =0.8) between groups. EBD is an umbrella term that encompasses many technical variations, which can be key for success. Although limited by the small numbers and the comparison of patients treated over two subsequent periods, this is the first study focusing on the role of balloon size. The diameter of the balloon did not influence significantly long-term results, but the 6mm balloon slightly increased the success rate of EBD to 83.3% and eliminated the need for cutting balloons to achieve a satisfactory dilatation.

Occurrence state and oil content evaluation of Permian Fengcheng Formation in the Hashan area as constrained by NMR and multistage Rock-Eval

The Hashan area, neighboring the Mahu Sag that is rich in the shale oil resources, showed commercial oil flow in the corresponding lacustrine shales of the Lower Permian Fengcheng Formation (P1f) with reserve scale approximately 789 million tons, presenting great potential for oil exploration. Despite their geographical proximity, the hydrocarbon occurrence and oil-bearing capacity of shale in the Hashan area and Mahu Sag greatly differ owing to the complex tectonic evolution. Therefore, understanding the occurrence state and oil content of the P1f in the Hashan area is crucial for ongoing shale oil exploration activities and the development of the northwestern margin of the Junggar Basin. In this study, an integrated investigation, including petrological observations, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation, analysis of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) T1–T2 spectra, and conventional and multistage Rock-Eval pyrolysis methods were conducted to evaluate the occurrence state and oil content of the P1f shale in the Hashan area. The results indicate that plagioclase (average 30.7%) and quartz (24.1%) dominate the mineral compositions of the P1f shale samples. A method involving quartz–plagioclase–carbonate minerals is proposed to conduct lithofacies classification. In the Hashan area, the organic matter abundance in the P1f shale is scaled in fair to good range, the thermal maturity ranges from immature to early mature stage, and the primary organic matter types are Types I and II1. Intergranular and dissolution pores are the two most common pore types. The free oil is mostly found in the pores and microfractures of the mineral matrix, whereas the adsorbed oil is mostly adsorbed on the surfaces of kerogen and clay minerals. The high organic matter abundance, quartz content, and porosity account for substantial increase in the oil content, the area rich in shale oil resources coincides with that rich in free oil. The most favorable lithofacies in the Hashan area is the calcareous mudstone/shale, which hosts the highest free oil content (average 2.49 mg), total oil content (15.02 mg/g), organic matter abundance (TOC = 1.88% and S1+S2 = 20.54 mg/g) and porosity (5.97%).

Characteristics and Formation Mechanism of Multiscale Storage Spaces in Ancient Deep Tight Reservoirs: Examples from the Cambrian Yurtus Formation in the Northern Tarim Basin, China

AbstractUnder the background of complicated diagenetic fluids, high-temperature pressure in superimposed basin, the pore-forming and pore-preserving effects of deep tight reservoirs are complex, and the formation mechanism of high-quality reservoirs has always been the core issue. With the discovery of oil and gas in ultradeep drilling in Tarim Basin, the most unconventional tight reservoir of Lower Cambrian Yuertus Formation in Tabei area began to receive attention. Based on the research of typical field outcrops in Tabei area, the lithofacies, reservoir space differences, and reservoir formation mechanism are systematically analyzed. (1) The stratum has undergone complex multistage diagenetic fluid transformation, and the rock types are diverse with great differences; siliceous rock and dolomite are the main rock types, often in thin-medium layered distribution. (2) After long-term deep burial transformation, siliceous rock and dolomite can still retain a large number of effective storage spaces; hydrothermal dissolution pores, organic acid dissolution pores, atmospheric freshwater dissolution pores, and intercrystalline pores are the main pore types, which provide main storage spaces. Multiscale pores are developed in siliceous rock and dolomite, with good connectivity and good pore structure. (3) The large-scale storage spaces mainly come from the effective maintenance of primary pores, organic matter, and hydrothermal dissolution. The siliceous minerals and dolomite have stable properties and strong resistance to compaction and can effectively maintain the early pores. (4) The large-scale reservoir space was formed in the early diagenetic stage; the pressure-solution and cementation are the two most important diagenetic processes for reducing storage spaces; however, under the pore-forming and pore-preserving effects of early silicification and dolomitization, various types of dissolution, and oil charging, the tight lithology can still maintain effective storage spaces. The related research has important theoretical and practical significance for studying the formation mechanism of tight reservoirs in deep ancient strata and predicting high-quality reservoirs.

Efficacy and safety of high-pressure balloon dilatation for primary obstructive megaureter in children: A systematic review

PurposeEndoscopic treatment with high-pressure balloon dilatation (HPBD) has been proposed as a feasible, safe and minimally invasive procedure for primary obstructive megaureter, but the level of evidence is still low. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HPBD and its long-term results in paediatric population.MethodsThe review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Systematic research of available literature in the English language from 1995 until June 2022 was conducted through EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library and NIH Registry of Clinical Trials. For each relevant study, information was gathered regarding the study design, the inclusion/exclusion criteria, the indications for treatment, the success rate and the complications.ResultsThe final set included 13 studies. Median age of the patients ranged from 4 months to 7 years (full range 15 days-15 years). The indications for HPBD varied in different studies, however most authors included patients with increasing dilation, obstructive patterns found at diuretic renogram scan, decreased renal function or symptoms. All the studies analysed reported a success rate ranging from 69 to 100% for the treatment of POM with HPBD. This approach may avoid surgery in up to 77% of cases and is thought to be a less invasive, definitive and safe treatment for this disorder. The complication rate ranged from 0 to 50% and it was mostly infectious or associated to the stent placement or both.ConclusionHPBD demonstrated to be safe for the treatment of POM in infants, with effective long-term results and can be a definitive treatment in a considerable subset of patients. Nevertheless, the overall level of evidence for HPBD is still low and further comparative studies or randomized clinical trials are needed.

An improved representation of aerosol mixing state for air quality–weather interactions

Abstract. We implement a detailed representation of aerosol mixing state in the Global Environmental Multiscale – Modelling Air quality and CHemistry (GEM-MACH) air quality and weather forecast model. Our mixing-state representation includes three categories: one for more hygroscopic aerosol, one for less hygroscopic aerosol with a high black carbon (BC) mass fraction, and one for less hygroscopic aerosol with a low BC mass fraction. The more detailed representation allows us to better resolve two different aspects of aerosol mixing state: differences in hygroscopicity due to aerosol composition and the amount of absorption enhancement of BC due to non-absorbing coatings. Notably, this three-category representation allows us to account for BC thickly coated with primary organic matter, which enhances the absorption of the BC but has a low hygroscopicity. We compare the results of the three-category representation (1L2B, (one hydrophilic, two hydrophobic)) with a simulation that uses two categories, split by hygroscopicity (HYGRO), and a simulation using the original size-resolved internally mixed assumption (SRIM). We perform a case study that is focused on North America during July 2016, when there were intense wildfires over northwestern North America. We find that the more detailed representation of the aerosol hygroscopicity in both 1L2B and HYGRO decreases wet deposition, which increases aerosol concentrations, particularly of less hygroscopic species. The concentration of PM2.5 increases by 23 % on average. We show that these increased aerosol concentrations increase cloud droplet number concentrations and cloud reflectivity in the model, decreasing surface temperatures. Using two categories based on hygroscopicity yields only a modest benefit in resolving the coating thickness on black carbon, however. The 1L2B representation resolves BC with thinner coatings than the HYGRO simulation, resulting in absorption aerosol optical depths that are 3 % less on average, with greater differences over strong anthropogenic source regions. We did not find strong subsequent effects of this decreased absorption on meteorology.

Organic matter composition and thermal maturity evaluation of Mesoproterozoic source rocks in the Beetaloo Sub-Basin, Australia

The Beetaloo Sub-basin in northern Australia comprises extensively developed marine, organic-rich shales within the Mesoproterozoic Velkerri and Kyalla formations. Oil and gas derived from the thermal maturation of primitive organic matter in these shales represent some of the oldest and best-preserved hydrocarbon accumulations identified worldwide. The organic matter is derived largely from prokaryotes with petrographic evidence indicating these primarily occur as filamentous strands or lamellae typical of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) and commonly referred to as ‘alginite’. The shales also contain bitumen generated through thermal maturation of the primary organic matter, as well as pyrobitumen remaining as a residue after secondary cracking of heavy hydrocarbons to gas. At present, no well-defined method exists to accurately assess thermal maturity nor define their hydrocarbon generation windows in source rocks of this age. Our organic petrographic and geochemical analyses indicate alginite reflectance (Ra) increases with thermal maturity showing consistent relationships with depth, atomic H/C of kerogen and aromatic molecular ratios of extractable organic matter in the shales. Among the aromatic parameters tested, vitrinite reflectance calculated from methylphenanthrene index (MPI-1 Rc) shows the strongest correlation with Ra (Rc = 0.5834Ra + 0.3842) confirming it is an effective parameter to calibrate thermal maturity models, particularly for wells where only organic petrology data are available. Molecular and isotopic composition of in situ hydrocarbons from two deep wells suggest the primary hydrocarbon generation window for Mesoproterozoic source rocks lies between Ra ∼ 0.2 % (Rc ∼ 0.5 %) and ∼ 1.5 % (Rc ∼ 1.25 %) with the dry gas threshold at Ra > 2.5 % (Rc > 1.8 %). These findings represent a refinement of the existing source rock maturity evaluation methods for the Beetaloo Sub-basin and serve as a guide for assessing other Precambrian petroleum systems worldwide.

Extremely High Primary Productivity and Organic Matter Enrichment in Lacustrine Sediments: Late Triassic Chang 73 Sub-Member, Western Ordos Basin

The 7th member of the Late Triassic Yanchang Formation is the most important Mesozoic source rocks and shale oil reservoir in the Ordos Basin. The hydrocarbon potential and organic matter enrichment mechanism of this organic-rich member are questioned because of the high heterogeneity of continental sediments. In particular, the lack of drilling in the Chang 73 sub-member of the western Ordos Basin (central Tianhuan Depression) hinders this understanding and the progress of shale oil exploration in this region. In this study, 87 samples were collected from the well DP1 in the Tianhuan Depression, western Ordos Basin, and analyzed for sedimentology and geochemistry to unravel the paleoenvironment, paleo-productivity, and hydrocarbon potential of the Chang 73 sub-member. The results show that the Chang 73 shale is characterized by ultra-high organic matter abundance (up to 10.60%), type II kerogen, and good hydrocarbon generation potential. An intermediate chemical weathering intensity suggests that this set of organic-rich shale was deposited in a warm and humid paleoclimate setting. Extreme organic matter enrichment in study area may be attributed to ultra-high productivity (hypereutrophic lake), superimposed terrigenous organic matter input, and transgression, rather than volcanism and anoxic bottom water. This model is different from those of Chang 73 interval with higher organic matter content in the central and southern parts of the Ordos Basin. Therefore, this study proposes that the Chang 73 shale in the central Tianhuan Depression is not a good target layer for shale oil exploration and that the favorable area may be located in an undisturbed deep lake with higher organic matter abundance (e.g., southwestern Ordos Basin).

High pressure baloon dilatation (HPBD) vs cutting balloon ureterotomy (CBU) in the management of primary obstructive megaureter (POM)

High pressure baloon dilatation (HPBD) vs cutting balloon ureterotomy (CBU) in the management of primary obstructive megaureter (POM)

Sequence stratigraphic control on the variations of organic matter in Eocene lacustrine shales within the Dongying Depression, Eastern China

• A third-order sequence is identified in Eocene shales in the Dongying Depression. • The abundance, type and preservation of organic matter (OM) are intimately related to the sequence development. • Sequence development affects OM accumulation, resulting in differential OM distribution within the Eocene sequence stratigraphic framework. Eocene organic-rich shales in the Dongying Depression, Eastern China, are well preserved and ideal for examining stratigraphic controls on the variations of organic matter (OM). This study concerns the Eocene sedimentary succession in the Dongying Depression and recognizes a third-order sequence based on the stacking patterns of lithofacies, mineralogical changes, and geochemical proxies. The total organic carbon content, Rock-Eval parameters S1 and S2 values, and the chloroform bitumen “A” content are low in the lowstand systems tracts, reaching their maxima within the transgressive systems tracts and gradually decreasing within the highstand systems tracts. The paleoclimate index and ratios of quartz/feldspar, Sr/Ca, TiO 2 /Al 2 O 3 , Cr/Al, Ni/V, Th/U, Zn/Al, and Ni/Al indicate that OM accumulation was influenced by primary productivity, sedimentation rate (SR), and redox conditions, which are intimately related to the sequence development under the influence of tectonics, climate, sediment supply, and relative lake-level fluctuations. The OM distribution is related to the sequence stratigraphy in three ways: (1) climate and relative lake-level fluctuations affected the primary productivity and OM production via algae blooms and terrestrial OM input; (2) relative lake-level fluctuations and sediment supply were influenced by tectonics and climate, causing a change in SR and OM deposition; and (3) relative lake-level fluctuations under different climatic conditions affected the development of anoxic bottom-water favoring OM preservation.

Weakening of the biological pump induced by a biocalcification crisis during the early Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event

Severe environmental changes during the early Toarcian (Early Jurassic; ∼182 Ma), comprising global warming, elevated pCO2, intensified continental weathering and a high amplitude sea level rise, led to the genesis of a Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event (T-OAE), expressed by the widespread occurrence of organic carbon (OC)-rich sediments (black shales) forming on anoxic epicontinental shelves. Here, we show that during the T-OAE black shales in some depocenters have formed under rather low organic carbon accumulation rates (OCAR). We explain this observation by a reduced export efficiency of OC to the sediment, caused by a drastic decline in the abundance of mineral ballast, due to a major biocalcification crisis and the demise of calcareous nannoplankton. The reduction of mineral ballast led to slowing of the sinking speed of particulate organic matter, which thus became more prone to biodegradation. A major sea level rise, accompanying the T-OAE, was associated with retrograding shorelines and shift of depocenters away from the basin centers to more coastal areas. This might have reduced nutrient fluxes to the distal depocenters and diminished surface productivity and export flux in the central basin. Moreover, during sea level rise reduced input of clastics from adjacent landmasses may have led to a decline in organic carbon dilution. A decline in both abundance and size is documented for faecal pellets in core FR-210-078 from the Lorraine Basin, substantiating the scenario of reduced marine primary productivity and organic matter transport efficiency. Accordingly, during the T-OAE low OCAR are here interpreted to reflect a weakening of the biological pump. These new data substantiate the role of organic matter preservation as major factor controlling the formation of black shales during the T-OAE. The Toarcian marine transgression led to an increase in the extent of shelf areas, accompanied by an expansion of oxygen-deficient conditions that favored the preservation of organic matter in shelf sediments. Consequently, despite low OCAR, net C-burial in shelf sea sediments increased during the T-OAE, which may have acted as negative feedback mechanism that caused global cooling in the aftermath of the event.

Occurrence and preservation of primary organic matter in a hybrid unconventional reservoir: Montney Formation, Western Canada Sedimentary Basin

The Lower Triassic Montney Formation of the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin (WCSB) is a world-class unconventional hydrocarbon resource in North America. It was deposited on the northwestern margin of Pangaea at mid-latitudes in an arid climate and after major mass extinction at the Late Permian-Triassic boundary. Despite decades of exploration and economic importance, the origin of organic matter and source of accumulated hydrocarbons is not well understood. The Montney Formation is primarily composed of dolomitic siltstone with a mean total organic carbon (TOC) content of ≤1 wt%. In this study, we re-examined samples from an Alberta Geological Survey (AGS) data release in 2010 on Montney Formation organic petrography and expand the sampling and analysis to further investigate organic matter type, thermal maturity, and possible internal hydrocarbon source intervals within the Montney Formation as well as organic matter preservation and depositional environment by integrating programmed pyrolysis, organic petrography, and molecular geochemistry.Organic petrography and molecular geochemistry show that millimeter to centimeter thick mudstone intervals with TOC ≤ 1 wt%, are dominantly comprised of Type II marine kerogen (Prasinophyte and Tasmanites) with minimal terrigenous organic matter. The presence of these organic-rich mudstone beds in central and western Alberta reveals intra-formational sources of hydrocarbons within the Montney Formation, in addition to hydrocarbons sourced from overlying organic-rich source rocks (i.e., Triassic Doig and Jurassic Gordondale). These results confirm that the Montney Formation can be considered as a hybrid unconventional hydrocarbon reservoir with an interbedded source and reservoir.Molecular geochemistry data suggest that photic zone euxinia (PZE) was favorable for the preservation of organic matter during deposition of the Montney Formation. However, in many instances, this only happened during very short periods similar to depositional conditions on the offshore present day Namibian shelf. Traces of terrigenous organic matter were able to reach the basin, likely in the form of inertinite and combustion-derived polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Although the results of this study show there are source rock intervals within the Montney Formation, a comprehensive organic petrography and geochemistry study on a series of full-length Montney cores throughout the basin will help to ascertain the major paleo depositional variation and their effect on organic matter preservation as well as hydrocarbon source intervals and their contribution to WCSB petroleum systems.

Fungi, P-Solubilization, and Plant Nutrition.

The application of plant beneficial microorganisms is widely accepted as an efficient alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides. It was shown that annually, mycorrhizal fungi and nitrogen-fixing bacteria are responsible for 5 to 80% of all nitrogen, and up to 75% of P plant acquisition. However, while bacteria are the most studied soil microorganisms and most frequently reported in the scientific literature, the role of fungi is relatively understudied, although they are the primary organic matter decomposers and govern soil carbon and other elements, including P-cycling. Many fungi can solubilize insoluble phosphates or facilitate P-acquisition by plants and, therefore, form an important part of the commercial microbial products, with Aspergillus, Penicillium and Trichoderma being the most efficient. In this paper, the role of fungi in P-solubilization and plant nutrition will be presented with a special emphasis on their production and application. Although this topic has been repeatedly reviewed, some recent views questioned the efficacy of the microbial P-solubilizers in soil. Here, we will try to summarize the proven facts but also discuss further lines of research that may clarify our doubts in this field or open new perspectives on using the microbial and particularly fungal P-solubilizing potential in accordance with the principles of the sustainability and circular economy.

Effects of confining pressure and microscale heterogeneity on hydrocarbon retention and pore evolution from artificial maturation of Eagle Ford Shale

Although shale heterogeneity has recently emerged as a key topic in unconventional petroleum systems, hydrocarbon (HC) retention and pore evolution in organic-rich shales still remain poorly constrained. In this study, an organic-rich Eagle Ford Shale sample (EqVRo = 0.92%) from a shale-oil prospecting well in South Texas was selected for gold-tube pyrolysis experiments to investigate organic matter (OM) -hosted pore development versus confining pressure during thermal maturation. Before heating, the OM-type heterogeneity and associated pore characteristics in the sample were examined by thin section and scanning electron microscopy imaging, combined with elemental mapping by X-ray energy-dispersive spectroscopy. Four forms of OM occurrence that are closely associated with different mineral matrix domains are distinguished, including the ductile oil-bearing primary OM and rigid primary OM in the siliceous-argillaceous seams, as well as the secondary OM in coccolith-rich lenses and in foraminifera chambers. From heating experiments, the pressure effect on pore evolution was found to be pronounced for the secondary OM in the foraminifera chambers, in which the coalescence of small pores to larger pores upon OM maturation was accelerated by increasing fluid pressure, accompanied by arrangement and densification of OM structures. However, the expulsion effect as a function of confining pressure seems to be evident only for the secondary OM in the coccolith-rich lenses. In contrast, the two types of primary OM in the siliceous-argillaceous seams do not show any apparent changes in pore development over the investigated pressure range of 10 to 120 MPa, probably due to stiffer mechanical properties of primary OM as compared to secondary OM. The discrepancies in pore evolution of different OM types as a response to the variation in confining pressure upon maturation primarily depend on the physical-chemical properties of these various OM materials.Of further importance, observed differences in OM evolution and associated pore characteristics in response to the variation in confining pressure imply that the microscale heterogeneity of shale fabric controls the extent of oil retention and pore evolution. In contrast to the intragranular pores in the foraminifera chambers, the intergranular pores in the coccolith-rich lenses from the Eagle Ford Shale sample are relatively smaller, yet more likely interconnected. Thus, these coccolith-associated pores may provide not only significant storage space but also a major flow pathway for HC production. Our investigation at the microscopic scale provides concepts indicating that HC retention and OM-hosted pore evolution occur differently in two contrasting types of mineral matrix pores, which is critical to successful unconventional shale oil and gas exploration in sedimentary basins.

Renal outcome in patients with complex anorectal malformations

Introduction: Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are one of the most frequent congenital malformations in pediatric surgery. Its estimated incidence ranges between 1 in 2000 and 1 in 5000 live newborns approximately. The aim of the work is to present the associated urinary anomalies and functional renal outcomes in patients with worse prognosis anorectal malformations treated in our department Material and methods: A retrospective review of the patients operated at our center with complex anorectal malformations was performed, including urological abnormalities and long-term renal follow-up. Collected data included the type of urinary abnormality, classified as high or low, renal function (glomerular filtration rate and blood creatinine level), the presence of chronic kidney failure (CKD), the need for surgery to correct the urinary abnormality, the need for kidney transplantation and complications and long-term results. Results: A total of 55 patients were included, 32 girls and 23 boys. Mean age at the time of corrective surgery for the anorectal malformation was 9 months (SD 2.18). The mean follow-up of the patients was 13 years (SD 7.01). Sixty-nine per cent of the patients presented some urological anomaly, being more frequent in the cloacal group. Renal structural abnormalities were found in 22 (40%) of 55 patients. They were identified in 11 (47%) cloacal patients, being the most frequent renal dysplasia (n=7; 32%), followed by position abnormalities in 3. Regarding the lower urinary tract anomalies, it was described in 32 (58%) patients. In the cloacal group, the incidence was 65%, being the most frequent vesicoureteral reflux (n = 14, 60%) as well as in the group of patients with a fistula to the prostatic urethra and in the group with exstrophies of the cloaca (n = 3, 42%). Regarding the rest of the lower urinary tract anomalies, the general incidence of anatomic bladder anomalies (bladder diverticulum, patent urachus) was 15%. As a pathology related to the upper urinary tract: primary obstructive megaureter 5%, ureterocele 1% and posterior urethral valves 1%. Conclusions: Patients with complex anorectal malformations have a significant risk for renal impairment. Adequate screening, high level of suspicion, treatment and long term follow up of any associated urinary anomaly in patients with complex anorectal malformations is essential to preserve renal function and prevent CKD. Care by a multidisciplinary team and adequate transition to adulthood is essential to optimize the medical management of patients and long-term outcomes.

FLORA OF ODESA AIRPORT FOREST PARK

Introduction. The flora of the area of study included algae, fungi, lichens and higher plants (mosses, ferns, golonasinny and angiosperm). They play an important role in the ecosystem of the Airport Forest Park. Odesa, create primary organic matter, emit oxygen, dispose of carbon dioxide, enrich the soil with nitrogen substances, decompose the remains of organic substances and process them into inorganic and are food and shelter for many invertebrates (worms, mollusks, insects) and vertebrates (reptiles, birds, mammals) organisms. Aim. The purpose of the work was to study the floristic diversity of the Airport Forest Park in Odessa. Methods. For the first time, the flora of the Airport forest was investigated during 2000-2022 by the route method. Determination of the species composition of algae, fungi, lichens, higher plants was carried out by light microscopy with the help of many determinists, atlases, monographs. Results. The flora of the forest park "Airportivsky" consists of 173 species (173 inland species taxa), which belonged to 156 genera, 60 families, 37 orders, 13 classes, 10 departments, 4 kingdoms and 2 empires (domains). The flora consisted of lower (Thallophyta) and higher (Embryophyta) plants. Lower plants were represented by algae (12 species), fungi (35) and lichens (2), higher – mosses (3), ferns (1), golonosin (6) and angiosperms (114). A characteristic feature of the taxonomic diversity was the dominance of angiosperms (114 species) in the species composition of the flora of the forest park. The most represented species were the leading families Asteraceae (20 species), Rosaceae (13), Fabaceae (11), Brassicaceae (6), Poaceae (5), Oleaceae (5), Aceraceae (4), Fagaceae (2), Lamiaceae (2) and Plantaginaceae (2). Leading genera of Aser l. (4 species), Artemisia L. (4), Agaricus L. (3), Medicago L. (3), Prunus L. (3), Trifoilium L. (3), Closterium Nitsch ex Ralphs (3), Amanita Pers. (2), Lactarium Pers. (2) and Plantago L. (2) formed the basis of the flora of the forest park. The most interesting floral finds are found in the flora of the park of the following species: closterium closteroid (Closterium closterioides (Ralfs) Luns et Peweters), glass Ola (Cyathus olla (Batsch) Pers.). Conclusions. For the first time in the flora of the Airport forest found 173 species (173 inland species taxa), belonging to 156 genera, 60 families, 37 orders, 13 classes, 10 divisions, 4 kingdoms and 2 empires (domains). Among them were found 12 species of algae, 35 fungi, 2 lichens, 3 mosses, 1 fern, 6 gymnosperms and 114 species of angiosperms.

Modified technique for robot-assisted laparoscopic infantile ureteral reimplantation for obstructive megaureter

PurposeTo describe a novel modification of technique to improve efficacy of robot-assisted laparoscopic extravesical ureteral reimplantation (RALUR-EV) in infants. Materials and methodsBetween April 2017 and July 2019, sixteen infants with primary obstructive megaureter (POM) (Age range: 4–12 months) underwent robot-assisted ureteral reimplantation were reviewed in this series. In addition to the conventional Lich-Gregoir technique, the detrusor tunnel has been extended to the mobilized anterior bladder wall to guarantee sufficient tunnel length/ureter diameter ratio and avoid ureteral angulation. All patients underwent repeated ultrasound, diuretic renal dynamic imaging and voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) perioperatively and the outcomes were documented. ResultsAll operations were completed with robotic assisted approach without conversion. Bilateral and unilateral reimplantation were respectively performed in two and fourteen patients. The mean operative time was 115.0 ± 19.5 min and the mean blood loss was 10.0 ± 1.8 ml. There were no high-grade complications (III–IV on Clavien-Dindo classification) except for one patient. The distal ureteric diameter was reduced from pre operative 1.7 ± 0.5 to 0.6 ± 0.5 cm 6 months post operatively (p < 0.05). One child (6.3%) required the second reimplantation for stenosis. The overall operative success rate was 94.4% (17 of 18 ureters) with a mean follow-up of 15.9 ± 7.4 months with no flux detected. ConclusionOur preliminary experience suggests that our modified robot-assisted laparoscopic extravesical ureteral reimplantation is feasible in infants with good results.