Metal-organic framework based mixed matrix membranes: a solution for highly efficient CO2 capture?

The field of metal-organic framework based mixed matrix membranes (M(4)s) is critically reviewed, with special emphasis on their application in CO2 capture during energy generation. After introducing the most relevant parameters affecting membrane performance, we define targets in terms of selectivity and productivity based on existing literature on process design for pre- and post-combustion CO2 capture. Subsequently, the state of the art in M(4)s is reviewed against these targets. Because final application of these membranes will only be possible if thin separation layers can be produced, the latest advances in the manufacture of M-4 hollow fibers are discussed. Finally, the recent efforts in understanding the separation performance of these complex composite materials and future research directions are outlined.European Commission FP7 608490 ERC 33574

Mixed matrix membranes based on 6FDA polyimide with silica and zeolite microsphere dispersed phases

Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) prepared with 6FDA-DAM polymer using ordered mesoporous silica MCM-41 spheres (MSSs), Grignard surface functionalized MSSs (Mg-MSSs) and hollow zeolite spheres are studied to evaluate the effects of surface modification on performance. Performance near or above the so-called permeability-selectivity trade-off curve was achieved for the H2/CH4, CO2/N2, CO2/CH4, and O2/N2 systems. Two loadings (8 wt % and 16 wt %) of MSSs were tested using both constant volume and Wicke-Kallenbach sweep gas permeation systems. Besides single gas H2, CO2, O2, N2, and CH4 tests, mixed gas (50/50 vol %) selectivities were obtained for H2/CH4, CO2/N2, CO2/CH4, and O2/N2 and found to show enhancements vs. single gases for CO2 including cases. Mg-MSS/6FDA-DAM was the best performing MMM with H2/CH4, CO2/N2, CO2/CH4, and O2/N2 separation selectivities of 21.8 (794 Barrer of H2), 24.4 (1214 Barrer of CO2), 31.5 (1245 Barrer of CO2), and 4.3 (178 Barrer of O2), respectively

Pharmacogenomics courses in pharmacy school curricula

Aim: The appropriate use and integration of pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing will pivot on provider preparation and training. Pharmacists have been recognized as one of the key providers in the delivery of PGx testing and as such, professional organizations have recommended inclusion of PGx content in pharmacy curricula. Methods: We reviewed the curriculum of 132 US pharmacy schools for information about PGx courses. Results: A total of 70 core curriculum courses were identified. 55 (42%) pharmacy schools included at least one PGx course as part of the core curriculum, and ten (8%) schools that offered a PGx course elective. Conclusion: While many pharmacy schools have responded to the accreditation standards to include PGx, less than half of the schools have developed a standalone course. </jats:p

Emergence of Highly Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria Isolated from Patients with Infections Admitted to Public Hospitals in Southwest Iran

Background. The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) microorganisms causing infections is increasing worldwide and becoming more serious in developing countries. Among those, Acinetobacter species are becoming prominent. Objectives. The aim of this study was to determine the rate of antimicrobial resistance of the bacteria causing infections, Acinetobacter species in particular, in local public hospitals in Firuzabad, Fars province, Iran. Methods. This cross-sectional study was performed on different clinical specimens collected from patients who were suspected of infections hospitalized from March 2016 to March 2019 in local hospitals of Firuzabad, Fars province, Iran. The bacterial isolates were identified following standard microbiological methods. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines were used to identify the antibiotic susceptibility of these isolates. Results. Overall, 1778 bacterial etiologies were isolated from 1533 patients diagnosed with infection. Of these, 1401 (78.8%) were Gram-negative and the remaining were Gram-positive bacteria. Escherichia coli (37.1%), Klebsiella spp. (13.9%), and Acinetobacter species (10.4%) were the most common isolated bacteria. Antibiotic sensitivity testing in this study showed a high resistance rate of Acinetobacter species to all antibiotics tested except Colistin. During the study period, the rate of infection with highly multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter species increased from 7.2% to 13.3%. Conclusions. This study highlights the emergence of MDR bacterial agents such as Acinetobacter species as a new threat in our region. However, a decrease in the rate of infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa was noticeable

Emergence of Highly Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria Isolated from Patients with Infections Admitted to Public Hospitals in Southwest Iran

Background. The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) microorganisms causing infections is increasing worldwide and becoming more serious in developing countries. Among those, Acinetobacter species are becoming prominent. Objectives. The aim of this study was to determine the rate of antimicrobial resistance of the bacteria causing infections, Acinetobacter species in particular, in local public hospitals in Firuzabad, Fars province, Iran. Methods. This cross-sectional study was performed on different clinical specimens collected from patients who were suspected of infections hospitalized from March 2016 to March 2019 in local hospitals of Firuzabad, Fars province, Iran. The bacterial isolates were identified following standard microbiological methods. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines were used to identify the antibiotic susceptibility of these isolates. Results. Overall, 1778 bacterial etiologies were isolated from 1533 patients diagnosed with infection. Of these, 1401 (78.8%) were Gram-negative and the remaining were Gram-positive bacteria. Escherichia coli (37.1%), Klebsiella spp. (13.9%), and Acinetobacter species (10.4%) were the most common isolated bacteria. Antibiotic sensitivity testing in this study showed a high resistance rate of Acinetobacter species to all antibiotics tested except Colistin. During the study period, the rate of infection with highly multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter species increased from 7.2% to 13.3%. Conclusions. This study highlights the emergence of MDR bacterial agents such as Acinetobacter species as a new threat in our region. However, a decrease in the rate of infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa was noticeable.</jats:p