Blend Components Research Articles

Effect of supplementing an α-amylase enzyme or a blend of essential oil components on the performance, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen balance of dairy cows

Lowering dietary protein content is a promising strategy to reduce N excretions in cattle but it requires improved N utilization by the animal. Feed enzymes (e.g., exogenous α-amylase) and plant extracts (e.g., essential oils [EO]) are 2 additives that may enhance rumen function and possibly also microbial protein yield. This may increase fat- and protein-corrected milk yield (MY) and milk nitrogen efficiency and thus lower N losses from dairy cows. Both types of additives were studied in an experiment including 39 Holstein cows that had (average ± SD) 40.7 ± 7.95 kg/d MY, 89 ± 43 DIM, 2.7 ± 1.5 lactations, and 677 ± 68.6 kg of BW, consisting of a covariate (4 wk) and treatment period (5 wk). During the whole experiment cows were fed a typical Benelux diet (CTRL), supplemented with concentrates to meet individual requirements for energy and MP, which were fulfilled for 100% and 101%, respectively. The total diet was low in CP (15.5%) and relatively high in starch (22.6% and 6.6% rumen bypass starch). Cows were balanced for parity, DIM, MY, and roughage intake and randomly assigned to one of 3 groups, which received the following treatments in the treatment period: (1) CTRL (n = 13); (2) CTRL + 14 g/cow per day Ronozyme RumiStar α-amylase enzyme (AMEZ, n = 13; DSM); and (3) CTRL + 2.5 g/cow per day Crina Protect, a blend of EO components (ESOL, n = 13; DSM). Animal performance, ruminal pH, and enteric gas emissions were monitored throughout the experiment. During the last week of the covariate and treatment periods, nitrogen balances were conducted, total-tract nutrient digestibility was determined, and urinary allantoin and uric acid were determined as indicators for microbial N production. The statistical model applied to these variables contained group and DIM during treatment period as fixed effects and the values from the covariate period as covariate. Post hoc Dunnet-corrected comparisons between each treatment group and the control group were explored. The α-amylase enzyme tended to increase apparent total-tract starch digestibility and increased milk lactose concentration. The EO blend tended to increase MY and increased milk N output, milk nitrogen efficiency, and feed efficiency. Therefore, when feeding reduced dietary protein levels, EO have potential to improve the N-use efficiency in cattle, whereas the α-amylase enzyme might increase starch digestibility and milk lactose. However, additional research is necessary to substantiate our findings.

Effect of blending sequence and epoxy functionalized compatibilizer on barrier and mechanical properties of PBS and PBS/PLA nanocomposite blown films

AbstractThis study focuses on developing compostable nanocomposite blown films, aiming to enhance oxygen barrier properties while maintaining good mechanical performance. Polybutylene succinate (PBS) and its blend with polylactic acid (PLA) were selected as matrices for the films. Organo‐montmorillonite Delite®43B (D43B) clay was incorporated to improve oxygen barrier, and random ethylene‐methyl acrylate‐glycidyl methacrylate terpolymer served as a plasticizer and reactive compatibilizer. Different blending sequences were examined to determine the optimal one that led to significant enhancements in both the barrier and mechanical properties of the final nanocomposite blown film. Various techniques, including SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC, oxygen permeability, and tensile testing were employed to characterize the morphology of the compounds and blown films. The results reveal greater oxygen barrier properties depending on the blending sequence. Indeed, a reduction in oxygen permeability exceeding 50% was observed following the addition of 3 wt% of D43B to the PBS/PLA film, selectively localized in the PLA phase. This enhancement further intensified after the addition of 5 wt% of the epoxy functionalized compatibilizer.Highlights Enhancing PLA‐PBS compatibility with the epoxy functionalized compatibilizer led to a reduction in the final film's oxygen permeability. Achieving ideal ductility and barrier balance in films requires a synergistic blend of components: D43B, PLA, PBS, and compatibilizer. Optimizing balanced synergistic effects among compounds depends on the blending sequence method.

Topology sorting: Separating linear/star polymer blend components by imbibition in nanopores.

We report the imbibition and adsorption kinetics of a series of symmetric linear/star cis-1,4-polyisoprene blends within the long channels of self-ordered nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide (abbreviated: AAO). Using in situ nanodielectric spectroscopy, we followed the evolution of the longest chain modes in the blends with a judicious selection of molar masses for the constituent components. We demonstrated differences in the imbibition kinetics of linear and star components based on the relative viscosities (e.g., polymers with lower zero-shear viscosity penetrated first the nanopores). Following the complete imbibition of the pores, the adsorption time, τads, of each component was evaluated from the reduction in the dielectric strength of the respective chain modes. In the majority of blends, both components exhibited slower adsorption kinetics with respect to the homopolymers. The only exception was the case of entangled stars mixed with shorter linear chains, the latter acting as a diluent for the star component. This gives rise to what is known as topology sorting, e.g., the separation of linear/star blend components in the absence of solvent. Moreover, a simple relation (τads ∼ 10 × tpeak; tpeak is the time needed for the complete filling of pores) was found for linear polymers and stars. This suggested that the characteristic timescale of imbibition (tpeak) governs the adsorption process of polymers. It further implied the possibility of predicting the adsorption times of high molar mass polymers of various architectures by the shorter imbibition times.

Evaluation of the Nutritional, Antioxidant and Physiochemical Properties of Rice Flour Fortified with the Nigeria Native "IGBEMO" Rice Bran Flour

The study evaluate the physicochemical, functional and nutritional properties of rice flour fortified with Nigeria native rice bran flour. Response surface methodology was used and a total of thirteen runs was generated. The four best runs were selected from the thirteen based on the composition of their crude protein and fibre content viz: run (1, 4, 8 and 10). The proximate composition of the selected runs in protein (7.33-9.47%) and crude fibre (0.79-4.99%) respectively. The functional properties of the flours were WAC (77.72-84.95%), OAC (110.73-127.81%), foaming capacity (5.00-5.90%), swelling capacity (201.00-271.00 g/ml) has the best result obtained in run 8 respectively. The anti-nutritional factor of the flours were oxalate (0.270-1.305 mg/g), tannin (1.060-1.941 mg/g), alkaloid (6.813-10.413 mg/g) and phytate (9.476-19.364 mg/g). Further analyses on the mineral components of the flour blends showed high amount in potassium, phosphorus, sodium, iron and also appreciable amount of both zinc and copper. More so, the antioxidant properties of the flour samples were Fe2+ chelation (0.270-1.305%), FRAP (3.261-8.689 mg AAE/g), DPPH (69-76%), ABTS (0.011-0.023%), total flavonoid (0.009-0.050%) and total phenol (2.310-4.544%). The flours also showed high amount of insoluble fibres against soluble fibres. Hence, the flour blends could serve as a wheat flour substitute. Bread was produced from the composite flour blends and subjected to sensory evaluation on a nine point hedonic scale with overall acceptability in the range of (5.80 -6.03), crumbiness (6.17 – 6.57) and crustiness (6.30 -6.63).

Bioactive self-assembling silk fibroin–sericin films for skin tissue engineering

The quest for an ideal wound dressing material has been a strong motivation for researchers to explore novel biomaterials for this purpose. Such explorations have led to the extensive use of silk fibroin (SF) as a suitable polymer for several applications over the years. Unfortunately, another major silk protein—sericin has not received its due attention yet in spite of having favorable biological properties. In this study, we report an approach of blending SF and silk sericin (SS) without the usage of chemical crosslinkers is made possible by the usage of formic acid which evaporates to induce β-sheets formation to form cytocompatible films. Raman spectroscopy confirms the presence of SF/SS components in blend and formation of β-sheet in films. In situ, gelation kinetics studies were conducted to understand the change in gelation properties with addition of sericin into SF. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium and live/dead assays were performed to study cellular attachment, viability and proliferation on SF/SS films. The antibacterial properties of SF/SS films were tested using Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. The re-structured SF/SS films were stable, transparent, show good mechanical properties, antibacterial activity and cytocompatibility, therefore can serve as suitable biomaterial candidates for skin regeneration applications.

“The hidden hues”- An analysis of public perspectives regarding intimate area depigmentation and its dynamic relationship with dermatological procedures

Objectives: The art of esthetic dermatology has reached its pinnacles in this generation providing treatments for almost all skin concerns. Throughout history a myriad of issues have risen, and one that is common to everyone is the pigmentation of their intimate areas. Many people, particularly women, lament that their dark underarm makes it impossible for them to wear their favorite sleeveless dress or that they must deal with their partner’s embarrassment due to this issue. Even though cosmetics have advanced and we now have answers for every issue, people are still hesitant to undergo these treatments, even though they want to get rid of these pigmentations. This study has multiple goals, it aims to determine the reasons behind people’s reluctance to undergo depigmentation procedures in intimate areas, the extent to which dermatology has advanced in society, and whether skincare is still taboo. Material and Methods: Using an online survey through Google Forms, we conducted a cross-sectional study dated from May 21, 2023, to July 05, 2023, collecting data from 112 people living in Tbilisi, Georgia. Most of the participants were in the 18–35 age range. Participants responded to 17 questions about their overall skincare routines, the amount of time and effort they put into skincare, and their thoughts on the depigmentation process in private areas. Results: From a total of 112 participants, 69.6% (n = 78) were female, and 30.4% (n = 34) were male, with the majority of participants from age group 18 to 24 [83% (n = 93)], followed by people who are 25–30 [16.1% (n = 18)], and 2% from age 31 to 40 [0.9% (n = 1)]. In that, 62.5% (n = 70) of the population was interested in receiving treatment, but they were hesitant for a variety of reasons where 47.3% (n = 53) reasoned the high cost. About 8.9% (n = 10) were also reluctant to expose their intimate areas during procedures. About 8.9% (n = 10) of people think that they are intrusive and refuse to have them done. About 2.7% (n = 3) refuse to get the treatment due to opposition from spouses and family. Varying opinions about skincare approaches were also recorded where 33% (n = 37) stated that they have never been to a dermatologist since they have not experienced any skin problems whereas 21.4% (n = 24) use homemade skin care products, whose efficacies are debatable. Conclusion: Our investigation emphasizes the blending of medical and cosmetic components of dermatology by demonstrating positive responses regarding depigmentation and dermatologic procedures. A greater demand for solutions to skin pigmentation problems in sensitive areas of the body is reflected in the growing popularity of intimate area depigmentation. Nonetheless, the choice to receive these treatments is kept private and is shaped by cultural conventions, society expectations, and individual preferences. Some desire depigmentation for greater comfort and confidence while others value natural beauty and self-acceptance. The two biggest obstacles to involvement are lack of information and financial limitations. To combat this, easily accessible skincare solutions that have been shown to work should be reasonably priced and come with easy-to-follow directions that will allay worries and promote making wise decisions.

Enhancing surface segregation with cyclic polymer additives: A facile approach to surface modification

The preferential surface segregation of one component of a polymer blend has been used for the controlled modification of the surface properties. Unlike other modification methods, this technique is simple and does not require any complex modeling or additional processing steps for surface modification. Most surface segregation studies are based on the interaction between the chain ends of the additive and bulk polymer at the surface. However, additives with cyclic topologies without chain ends have not been used. In this study, an additive platform with cyclic topology without a chain end was designed for surface modification. A series of cyclic additives were synthesized via ring-expansion cationic polymerization. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis of the cyclic polymer additive showed approximately 1.5 times higher surface segregation than the linear polymer when blended with polyurethane. In addition, the surface segregation behavior depending on the molecular weight and pendant length of the cyclic polymer additive was investigated. Moreover, the monomer, allyl vinyl ether, enabled the addition of functional groups to the cyclic additive and the addition of perfluoroalkyl pendant groups was performed, revealing a promising antifouling effect in the adsorption of a plasma protein. The high performance and versatility of the cyclic architectural polymer additives extend the scope of the surface segregation field and can replace existing biomedical coatings.

Correlation of structure, rheological, thermal, mechanical, and optical properties in Low Density Polyethylene/Linear Low Density Polyethylene blends in the presence of recycled Low Density Polyethylene and Linear Low Density Polyethylene

AbstractPost‐industrial low‐density and linear low‐density polyethylene blown films are mechanically recycled for reutilizing in the production of blown films for packaging applications. This process enables the production of films with lower cost and similar properties while preserving the environment and lowering the amount of waste material disposed of. The mechanical recycling process results in the production of recycled pellets. This process includes chopping, washing, drying, and reprocessing. Mixtures of these recycled materials and their virgin form with various concentrations are shaped into blown films with inherent 70 and 30 wt% loadings for low‐density polyethylene and linear low‐density polyethylene components, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results of the recycled material show no contamination or chemical reaction with other materials. Gel permeation chromatography is carried out on the virgin and recycled low‐density polyethylene and linear low‐density polyethylene, and the results indicate the occurrence of chain session and crosslinking during the recycling process. The decline in the thermal properties of the samples, seen from the differential scanning calorimetry results, indicates the presence of crosslinks. The effect of structural changes caused by the recycling process on the rheological properties is studied. The miscibility of the blend components is evaluated by Cole–Cole plots and then further proved by Han and Van Gurp–Palman curves. Mechanical properties display an upturn following the presence of the crosslinkes. A decline in the optical properties in the films caused by the refraction of light by the crosslink structure in the film bulk and on the surface is evident.Highlights LDPE and LLDPE were recycled according to the circular economy approach Blown films containing virgin and recycled LDPE and LLDPE were produced Chain scission and crosslinking as a result of recycling were studied Rheological, thermal, mechanical, and optical properties were studied

Chitosan-PVA-PVP/nano-clay composite: a promising tool for controlled drug delivery.

In this study, chitosan, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) were used to create ternary blends reinforced with organically modified montmorillonite nanoclay. Tramadol was used as a model drug to assess the efficacy of these ternary blends as drug delivery systems. The current work demonstrated the highly controlled release of tramadol via transdermal administration. The results of the FTIR investigation revealed the compatibility of the blending components. Among non-drug-loaded formulations, MC6 is the most stable with a 17.6% weight residue at 505 °C and MC11 is the most stable of all the drug-loaded and non-drug-loaded formulations with a weight residue of 22.0% at 505 °C. The XRD studies of the prepared formulations showed crystalline behavior. However, the SEM analysis revealed that no gaps or mixing components were uniformly dispersed in the nanocomposites. Pharmaceutical tests, such as swelling, dissolution, and permeation rates, revealed a strong influence of the PVA concentration. There was a uniform distribution of drug throughout the films with maximum encapsulation efficiency found for MC7 (96.09 ± 0.31) and minimum encapsulation efficiency for MC11 (90.56 ± 0.34)%. Compared to the sodium acetate (pH 4.5) and potassium phosphate buffers (pH 6.8) the swelling and erosion were higher in hydrochloric acid buffer (pH 1.2). An increase in PVA concentration (or decrease in PVP concentration) increases the swelling, dissolution, and permeation rates. In addition, erosion increased with increasing PVP concentration. Furthermore, the nanoclay-reinforced composite showed high permeation. Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the produced nanocomposite could be used as an efficient transdermal drug delivery system.

The significance of low carbon bio-alcohols and bio-ketones fuels for clean propulsion systems

This experimental work investigates oxygenated bio-fuel component blends of butanol, pentanol and cyclopentanone with diesel on the combustion characteristics, gaseous emissions and particulate matter (PM). Furthermore, PM characteristics, including size distributions, morphology and nanostructure are investigated.The oxygen content on the sustainable fuel blend components (bio-alcohols and bio-ketone) and the lower cetane number leading to a longer ignition delay, larger premixed combustion phase and high mean peak combustion temperature reduced the total number of particle concentration by up to 91%. Characterisation of particles demonstrated morphological and nanostructural alterations, such as the reduction in primary particle size that would lead to greater particle oxidation reactivity. Furthermore, the combustion of oxygenated blends showed a reduction in the total hydrocarbon emissions and an increase in NO2 concentration. This research provides new knowledge to understand the effects of fuel properties on gaseous and particle emissions formation and characteristics. Overall this work demonstrates bio-alcohols and bio-ketones as low carbon fuels in unveiling strategies for vehicular emissions abatement.

Reference Evapotranspiration Estimation Using Genetic Algorithm-Optimized Machine Learning Models and Standardized Penman–Monteith Equation in a Highly Advective Environment

Accurate estimation of reference evapotranspiration (ETr) is important for irrigation planning, water resource management, and preserving agricultural and forest habitats. The widely used Penman–Monteith equation (ASCE-PM) estimates ETr across various timescales using ground weather station data. However, discrepancies persist between estimated ETr and measured ETr obtained from weighing lysimeters (ETr-lys), particularly in advective environments. This study assessed different machine learning (ML) models in comparison to ASCE-PM for ETr estimation in highly advective conditions. Various variable combinations, representing both radiation and aerodynamic components, were organized for evaluation. Eleven datasets (DT) were created for the daily timescale, while seven were established for hourly and quarter-hourly timescales. ML models were optimized by a genetic algorithm (GA) and included support vector regression (GA-SVR), random forest (GA-RF), artificial neural networks (GA-ANN), and extreme learning machines (GA-ELM). Meteorological data and direct measurements of well-watered alfalfa grown under reference ET conditions obtained from weighing lysimeters and a nearby weather station in Bushland, Texas (1996–1998), were used for training and testing. Model performance was assessed using metrics such as root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), mean bias error (MBE), and coefficient of determination (R2). ASCE-PM consistently underestimated alfalfa ET across all timescales (above 7.5 mm/day, 0.6 mm/h, and 0.2 mm/h daily, hourly, and quarter-hourly, respectively). On hourly and quarter-hourly timescales, datasets predominantly composed of radiation components or a blend of radiation and aerodynamic components demonstrated superior performance. Conversely, datasets primarily composed of aerodynamic components exhibited enhanced performance on a daily timescale. Overall, GA-ELM outperformed the other models and was thus recommended for ETr estimation at all timescales. The findings emphasize the significance of ML models in accurately estimating ETr across varying temporal resolutions, crucial for effective water management, water resources, and agricultural planning.

Application of Coal Tar Products and Evaluation of the Stability of Residual Marine Fuels

Although the quality of coal tar does not meet the demands for blended marine fuel, the properties of its components after processing are improved, and they can be considered as inexpensive blending components. Three types of coal tar products including light coal tar I, light coal tar II, and hydrogenated coal tar have been obtained and used in production of residual marine fuels. To minimize costs, a linear optimization method has been used, and all properties of the resulting products have met the required criteria. In addition, a novel analytical method was used to characterize the fuel stability. The analysis of a hydrocarbon composition and a mechanism of interaction between the resin and asphaltene have shown the main coal tar components affecting fuel oil stability are polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and resin. A condensation of PAHs and resin into asphaltene and an increasing complexity of asphaltene structure causes deposition of oil products under heating. Hydrogenation is able to effectively reduce the PAH content and the volume of formation of massive asphaltenes thus preventing fuel flocculation and deposition during aging in fuel tanks.

Prediction and evolution of core-shell morphology and their effect on mechanical properties of PP blends

The prediction of phase morphology is highly valuable in designing and regulating the properties of multiphase composites, particularly polymer blends. In this study, we prepared two types of ternary blends, PP/HDPE/EPR and PP/HDPE/EPDM composites and compared and analyzed the predicted and observed phase morphology of blends with different elastomers. Using Palierne and Bousmina equations, we calculated the interfacial tensions between two components in PP blends and then predicted the relationship between the spreading coefficient, interfacial tension, and phase morphology according to the spreading coefficient theory. Based on our findings, it was observed that the core-shell structure of EPR and EPDM rubber phase encapsulated HDPE core tends to form in PP ternary blends, which aligns with our experimental results. Additionally, SEM morphology observation results revealed a less number of dispersed phases in PP/HDPE/EPR composites with the same composition ratio. It was observed that the shell had a greater thickness due to the difficulty in dispersing EPR with higher viscosity. Mechanical tests indicated that composites with thin-shell and small-core dispersed phases had better toughness. These composites also displayed less yield strength loss under the same impact conditions compared to those with single rubber phases.

Phytochemical profile and antimicrobial activity of essential oils from two Syzygium species against selected oral pathogens

BackgroundThe genus Syzygium (Myrtaceae) comprises several essential oil-rich species that are utilized traditionally for treating tooth infections and toothache. The current study aimed to extract essential oils (EOs) from the leaves of Syzygium samarangense and Syzygium malaccense cultivated in Egypt for the first time and screen their antimicrobial potential against oral-related pathogens.MethodsThe intended EOs were extracted using hydrodistillation (HD) by boiling fresh leaves with distilled water; supercritical fluid (SF) by extracting the dried leaves using supercritical CO2 at 40 °C and 150 bar; and the headspace (HS) in which the fresh leaves were heated in a glass vial and the vaporized aroma were analyzed. The volatile constituents were analyzed using GC/MS and identified by comparing the experimental Kovats' retention indices with the literature. The antimicrobial activity was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans using agar diffusion, microwell dilution, and biofilm formation assays. Statistical significance (p < 0.05) was determined by applying one-way ANOVA and Duncan's post hoc test.ResultsThe yield of the extracted EOs differs between the applied methods, and the SF approach harvested the maximum (0.52–0.46%). The GC–MS analysis of SF EOs revealed a discrepancy between the two species. Since S. malaccense showed an abundance of hydrocarbons represented mainly by squalene (60.60%), S. samarangense was deemed to have oxygenated sesquiterpenes exemplified in globulol (52.09%). On the other side, the HD and HS EOs were sequentially comparable, while differed in the percentage of their majors. γ-terpinene (33.06%) pioneered the HS-derived aroma of S. malaccense, while S. samarangense was abundant with α-pinene (30.18%). Concurrently, the HD EOs of S. malaccense and S. samarangense were commonly denoted by caryophyllene oxide (8.19%-18.48%), p-cymene (16.02%- 19.50%), and γ-terpinene (12.20%-17.84). Ultimately, both species EOs exhibited broad-spectrum antimicrobial potential, although the HD EO was more potent than the SF EO. The HD EOs of both species potently inhibited the growth of E. coli (MIC 3.75 µL/mL) and suppressed C. albicans biofilm formation by 83.43 and 87.27%, respectively. The SF-EOs efficiently suppressed the biofilm formation of Gram-positive bacteria by 76.45%-82.95%.ConclusionEOs extracted from both species by different methods possessed a unique blend of volatile components with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. They were promoted as bioactive hits for controlling oral infections, however further investigations concerning their safety in clinical settings are needed.

Stakeholder development of an implementation strategy for fall prevention in Norwegian home care – a qualitative co-creation approach

BackgroundThe uptake of fall prevention evidence has been slow and limited in home care services. Involving stakeholders in the implementation process is suggested as a method to successfully tailor implementation strategies. The aim of this study was to develop an implementation strategy for fall prevention, targeting healthcare providers working in home care services.MethodsThis study used an explorative qualitative approach in a five-step co-creation process to involve researchers, service users, and healthcare providers. The first two steps consisted of workshops. This was followed by focus group interviews and individual interviews with key informants as steps three and four. Data from the first four steps were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. The fifth and final step was a workshop finalizing a strategy for implementing fall prevention evidence in home health services.ResultsOverall, our findings, resulted in an implementation strategy for fall prevention with four components: (1) Empower leaders to facilitate implementation, operationalized through what managers pay attention to regularly, resource priorities, and time spent on fall prevention, (2) Establish implementation teams, consisting of multidisciplinary healthcare providers from different levels of the organization, with formalized responsibility for implementation, (3) Tailor dual competence improvement, reflecting the need for knowledge and skills for fall prevention and implementation among healthcare providers and users, and (4) Provide implementation support, representing guidance through the implementation process.ConclusionsThis study advances our understanding of implementation in home care services. Implementation of fall prevention requires an implementation strategy involving a blend of essential components targeting leaders, competent healthcare providers and users, and establishing structures enhancing the implementation process.

Prolonged Exposure to Plant Volatiles does not Significantly Affect Pban Expression and Mating Behavior in Diamondback Moth [Plutella Xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)

Herbivorous insects use plant volatiles to locate hosts, find food, and identify oviposition sites to aid survival and reproduction. Plant volatiles not only regulate the synthesis and release of sex pheromones in insects, but also help them in the search and orientation of sources of sex pheromones. However, after prolonged exposure to plant volatiles, the changes mediating the mating behavior of diamondback moth (DBM) [Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)] are unclear. DBMs treated with allyl isothiocyanate, a volatile from cruciferous vegetables, did not show improved rates of mating with a limited effect on mating rhythm. This treatment inhibited mating behaviors in 3-day-old DBMs and decreased mating duration in 5-day-old DBMs. After prolonged exposure to allyl isothiocyanate, the total mating duration of DBM was not significantly different from that after prolonged exposure to n-hexane (control). The longest mating duration after emergence in DBM after prolonged exposure to allyl isothiocyanate was delayed by 1day compared with exposure to n-hexane. Prolonged exposure to plant volatiles intensified the response behavior of DBM to sex pheromones. However, the amount of Z11-16: Ald, a major component of the sex pheromone blend exhibited no change in female pheromone glands. Pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide gene (PBAN) was down-regulated in DBMs after prolonged exposure to plant volatiles. These findings suggest that prolonged exposure (6h) to plant-derived volatiles have little effect on the mating behavior of DBM. This study provides practical guidance for applying phytochemicals in pest control by regulating insect behavior.

Comparative Study of Fertilizers in Tomato-Grown Soils: Soil Quality, Sustainability, and Carbon/Water Footprints

This manuscript delves into the pivotal role of sustainable agriculture in addressing environmental challenges and meeting the nutritional demands of a burgeoning global population. The primary objective is to assess the impact of a recently developed eco-friendly fertilizer, denoted as SBO, which arises from the blend of organic and mineral components derived from agricultural waste, sulfur, and residual orange materials. These elements are bound together with bentonite. This study compares SBO with distinct fertilizer treatments, including horse manure (HM) and nitrogen–phosphorous–potassium (NPK), on two diverse tomato-growing soils, each characterized by unique chemical and biological properties. Furthermore, the research extends to evaluate the environmental implications of these fertilizers, with a specific focus on their carbon and water footprints. Soils have been chemically and biochemically analyzed, and carbon and water footprints (CF and WF, respectively) have been assessed. The results reveal substantial enhancements in soil quality with the application of SBO fertilizer. Both soils undergo a transition towards near-neutral pH levels, an increase in organic matter content, and heightened microbial biomass. SBO-treated soils exhibit notably superior enzyme activities. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) results affirm the sustainability of the SBO-based system, boasting the lowest CF, while NPK demonstrates the highest environmental impact. Consistently, the WF analysis aligns with these findings, indicating that SBO necessitates the least water for tomato production. In summary, this study underscores the critical importance of adopting sustainable fertilization practices for enhancing soil quality and reducing environmental footprints in agriculture. The promising results offer potential benefits for both food production and environmental conservation.

Mathematical programming model for the optimal management of carbon intensity indicators in global supply chains

We propose a rigorous approach for the operational planning of supply chains considering carbon intensity limits in final products. Accurately tracking of these indicators along the value chain can be challenging when dealing with bulk products. Production, transportation, blending and separation of components yield a complex pooling problem within a network structure. A novel mixed-integer nonlinear model is developed to optimize shipping schedules, inventories, processing and distribution of products while complying with environmental constraints of different markets. The model allows for rigorous monitoring and managing of carbon indicators, as well as for drawing important conclusions about sourcing strategies. A decomposition algorithm is presented for this problem, which permits obtaining high quality solutions in reasonable times. A global scale case study is solved to illustrate the economic impact of operating under carbon intensity limits, as well as suggesting alternative operating modes when the penalties on exceeding carbon targets are high.

Towards understanding the functional mechanism and synergistic effects of LiMn2O4 - LiNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 blended positive electrodes for Lithium-ion batteries

Blended positive electrodes consisting of mixtures of LiMn2O4 spinel (LMO) and layered LiNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 (NMC) have been studied by coupling electrochemical testing to operando synchrotron based X-ray absorption and powder diffraction experiments to shed light on their redox mechanism. Blending NMC with LMO results in enhanced energy density at high rates, with the composition with 25% LMO exhibiting the best electrochemical performance. Tests with a special electrochemical setup detecting the contribution of each blend component indicate that the effective current load on each blend component can be significantly different from the nominal rate and also varies as function of SoC. Operando studies enabled to monitor the evolution of oxidation state and changes in the crystal structure, which are in agreement with the expected behaviour of the individual components considering the material specific electrochemical current loads. These findings should contribute to a deeper mechanistic understanding of blended electrodes to foster a rational driven approach for their design.

Blend of natural and natural identical essential oil compounds as a strategy to improve the gut health of weaning pigs

Weaning is one of the most critical phases in pig’s life, often leading to postweaning diarrhoea (PWD). Zinc oxide (ZnO), at pharmacological doses, has been largely used to prevent PWD; however, due to antimicrobial co-resistant and environmental pollution issues, the EU banned its use in June 2022. Natural or natural identical components of essential oils and their mixture with organic acids are possible alternatives studied for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant abilities. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two blends of natural or natural identical components of essential oils and organic acids compared to ZnO on health, performance, and gut health of weaned pigs. At weaning (d0), 96 piglets (7 058 ± 895 g) were assigned to one of four treatments balanced for BW and litter: CO (control treatment), ZnO (2 400 mg/kg ZnO from d0 to d14); Blend1 (cinnamaldehyde, ajowan and clove essential oils, 1 500 mg/kg feed); Blend2 (cinnamaldehyde, eugenol and short- and medium-chain fatty acids, 2 000 mg/kg feed). Pigs were weighed weekly until d35. Faeces were collected at d13 and d35 for microbiota (v3–v4 regions of the 16 s rRNA gene) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) count analysis. At d14 and d35, eight pigs/treatment were slaughtered; pH was recorded on intestinal contents and jejunal samples were collected for morphological and gene expression analysis. From d7–d14, the Blend2 had a lower average daily gain (ADG) than CO and ZnO (P < 0.05). ZnO and Blend1 never differed in ADG and feed intake. At d14, ZnO had a lower caecum pH than all other treatments. The CO treatment had a higher abundance of haemolytic E. coli than Blend1 (P = 0.01). At d13, the ZnO treatment had a lower alpha diversity (P < 0.01) and a different microbial beta diversity (P < 0.001) compared to the other treatments. At d13, the ZnO treatment was characterised by a higher abundance of Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group (Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) score = 4.5, P = 0.011), Parabacteroides (LDA score = 4.5, P adj. = 0.005), the CO was characterised by Oscillospiraceae UCG-005 (LDA score = 4.3, P adj. = 0.005), Oscillospiraceae NK4A214_group (LDA score = 4.2, P adj. = 0.02), the Blend2 was characterised by Megasphaera (LDA score = 4.1, P adj. = 0.045), and Ruminococcus (LDA score = 3.9, P adj. = 0.015) and the Blend1 was characterised by Christensenellaceae_R-7_group (LDA score = 4.6, P adj. < 0.001) and Treponema (LDA score = 4.5, P adj. < 0.001). In conclusion, Blend1 allowed to maintain the gut health of postweaning piglets through modulation of the gut microbiome, the reduction of haemolytic E. coli while Blend2 did not help piglets.