Characterization Of Composition Research Articles

Metatranscriptomic insights into the dengue patient blood microbiome: Enhanced microbial diversity and metabolic activity in severe patients.

Dengue is the most re-emergent infection, with approximately 100 million new cases reported annually, yet no effective treatment or vaccine exists. Here, we aim to define the microbial community structure and their functional profiles in the dengue positive patients with varying disease severity. Hospital admitted 112 dengue-positive patients blood samples were analyzed by dual RNA-sequencing to simultaneously identify the transcriptionally active microbes (TAMs), their expressed genes and associated pathways. Results highlight that patients with severe dengue exhibited increased microbial diversity and presence of opportunistic species (unique and core) which includes Bacillus cereus, Burkholderia pseudomallei, Streptococcus suis, and Serratia marcescens. The functional profile analysis revealed enriched metabolic pathways such as protein degradation, nucleotide biosynthesis, ion transport, cell shape integrity, and ATP formation in severe cases, indicating the high energy demands and adaptability of these microbes. Our metatranscriptomic approach provides a species-level characterization of blood microbiome composition and reveals a heightened diversity of TAMs in patients with severe dengue, underscoring the need for further research into the role of blood microbiota in disease progression. Comparing the microbial signatures across the severity classes early in the disease offers unique potential for convenient and early diagnosis of dengue infection.

Ion Beam-Induced Luminescence (IBIL) for Studying Manufacturing Conditions in Ceramics: An Application to Ceramic Body Tiles.

The first experimental results obtained by the ion beam-induced luminescence technique from the ceramic bodies of ancient tiles are reported in this work. The photon emission from the ceramic bodies is related to the starting minerals and the manufacturing conditions, particularly the firing temperature and cooling processes. Moreover, the results indicate that this non-destructive technique, performed under a helium-rich atmosphere instead of an in-vacuum setup and with acquisition times of only a few seconds, presents a promising alternative to traditional, often destructive, compositional characterisation methods. Additionally, by adding other ion beam-based techniques such as PIXE (Particle-Induced X-ray Emission) and PIGE (Particle-Induced Gamma-ray Emission), compositional information from light elements such as Na can also be inferred, helping to also identify the raw materials used.

Agro-waste based biomass residues valorization for effective adsorption of heavy metal.

In this experiment four agro-waste based biomass residues (soybean stover-SSb, buckwheat stover-BWb, Artemisia vulgaris- AVb and Chromolaena odorata-COb) was valorized into low cost amendment called biochar followed by compositional characterization for their application in heavy metal removal. Investigation was carried out on the removal of the most common heavy metal ions including arsenic, cadmium, lead, nickel, zinc, and copper through adsorption on four types of biomass valorised biochar. According to preliminary testing, all the biochar was effective to eliminate a mixture of six heavy metals from the aqueous phase, with the removal of arsenic being the most removed and nickel being the least. In comparison to no biochar treatment, the average removal rate of heavy metal from aqueous solution using four distinct types of biochar was 45.75-62.42% (Cd), 43.64-56.33% (Pb), 41.85-59.73% (Ni), 42.87-60.28% (Zn), 45.64-59.51% (Cu), and 49.02-60.53% (As). The percent decrease of cadmium heavy metal adsorption with increase in maximum contaminant level (MCL) from 1- to fivefold was 20.0 (SSb), 20.7 (COb), 21.6 (BWb), and 22.9 (AVb). The results of the dosage study indicated that As adsorption was the most beneficial on all four types of biochar, whereas Ni adsorption was the least effective. With increase in application rate of biochar the heavy metals adsorption (%) was also increased. Four different agro-waste valorized biochar were used to treat the wastewater, and the physical and chemical changes that occurred both before and after the biochar treatment were noted. There was a drop in the wastewater CODT, CODD, TSS, ammonia, TKN, TP and pH values of 79.7-103.5%, 57.7-81.5, 52.3-68.4%, 1.23-2.23%, 14.1-20.6%, and 1.23-3.03%, respectively. Furthermore, after being passed through a biochar, the wastewater's Zn, Pb, Cd, As, Cr and Cu levels decreased by 3.26-6.15%, 0.06-0.34%, 0.01-0.08%, 2.37-3.65%, 3.95-5.53%, and 2.24-3.34%, respectively at 2.5 and 5.0g/litre of wastewater. Thus, in order to comply with regulations for the disposal of wastewater effluent, the process of valorizing biomass into biochar offered enormous potential for the removal of heavy metals in addition to wastewater treatment.

Reconstructing the Surface of K2SiF6:Mn4+ Phosphors toward Enhanced Moisture Resistance for White LED Applications.

The K2SiF6:Mn4+ (KSFM) phosphor featuring efficient ultranarrow red emissions is an outstanding candidate for white light-emitting diode (WLED) applications. However, poor moisture resistance seriously affects its application performance. In this study, a two-step surface reconstruction strategy is proposed to dramatically enhance the moisture resistance of commercially available KSFM phosphors, involving treatment with H2NbF7 and subsequent hydrothermal treatment. The modified KSFM phosphor exhibits a high internal quantum efficiency (IQE) of 98.9% after the two-step surface treatment. Meanwhile, nearly 100% of the initial emission intensity is retained for the modified KSFM phosphor even after aging in high temperature (85 °C) and high relative humidity (85% RH) environments for 6 days, in sharp contrast to only 18.6% retention for the original KSFM phosphor. The relative emission intensity of the modified KSFM remains at 98.9% even after being immersed in water for 6 h. Additionally, the phosphor-converted LED fabricated with the modified KSFM phosphor demonstrated excellent long-term stability, retaining up to 97.9% of initial luminous efficacy after aging under 85 °C and 85% RH conditions for 500 h. The moisture-resistance mechanism is elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis as well as structural and compositional characterization of the phosphor surface layer, which can be attributed to the formation of a robust Mn4+-rare shell with high crystalline quality following this two-step surface treatment. The findings contribute to the performance improvements of KSFM phosphors for industrial applications.

From Small Data Modeling to Large Language Model Screening: A Dual-Strategy Framework for Materials Intelligent Design.

Small data in materials present significant challenges to constructing highly accurate machine learning models, severely hindering the widespread implementation of data-driven materials intelligent design. In this study, the Dual-Strategy Materials Intelligent Design Framework (DSMID) is introduced, which integrates two innovative methods. The Adversarial domain Adaptive Embedding Generative network (AAEG) transfers data between related property datasets, even with only 90 data points, enhancing material composition characterization and improving property prediction. Additionally, to address the challenge of screening and evaluating numerous alloy designs, the Automated Material Screening and Evaluation Pipeline (AMSEP) is implemented. This pipeline utilizes large language models with extensive domain knowledge to efficiently identify promising experimental candidates through self-retrieval and self-summarization. Experimental findings demonstrate that this approach effectively identifies and prepares new eutectic High Entropy Alloy (EHEA), notably Al14(CoCrFe)19Ni28, achieving an ultimate tensile strength of 1085 MPa and 24% elongation without heat treatment or extra processing. This demonstrates significantly greater plasticity and equivalent strength compared to the typical as-cast eutectic HEA AlCoCrFeNi2.1. The DSMID framework, combining AAEG and AMSEP, addresses the challenges of small data modeling and extensive candidate screening, contributing to cost reduction and enhanced efficiency of material design. This framework offers a promising avenue for intelligent material design, particularly in scenarios constrained by limited data availability.

In-Situ synthesis of 2D nanozymes-coated cellulose nanofibers on paper-based chips for portable detection of biothiols

BackgroundSimple, fast and low-cost paper-based analytical devices (PADs) have a good application prospect for point-of-care detection of GSH. However, effective immobilization of functional nanomaterials onto cellulose, as a critical factor in the construction of PADs, presents numerous difficulties and challenges. ResultsIn this study, we have developed an exceptionally straightforward and environmentally friendly synthetic approach by using ovalbumin (OVA) as a bio-mineralization template for the preparation of MnO2 nanosheets. The MnO2 nanosheets produced in the solution phase exhibited excellent intrinsic nano-enzyme activity and biodegradability. The OVA-MnO2 nanosheets can effectively oxidize Amplex red in the absence of H2O2, enabling sensitive detection of GSH with a linear range of 5 nM-10 μM and a detection limit as low as 2.8 nM. Furthermore, we utilized this method to facilitate in situ synthesis of OVA-MnO2 nanosheets directly on paper substrates. This approach eliminates the need for conventional stirring and centrifugation steps, greatly simplifying the fabrication process while reducing material usage and time expenditure. Characterization of the chemical composition and morphology confirmed the intimate growth of the 2D nano-enzymes on the cellulose fibers. Utilizing smartphone capabilities, the OVA-MnO2 nanosheet-modified PAD enabled instrument-free detection of GSH, demonstrating high sensitivity (0.74 μM) and a wide linear response range (1-1000 μM). SignificanceThe synthesis of MnO2 nanosheets directly on cellulose substrates substantially streamlines the modification workflow of PADs and reduces detection costs, offering new avenues for clinical diagnostics of relevant diseases.

Pretreated sugarcane bagasse matches performance of synthetic media for lipid production with Yarrowia lipolytica

Engineered strains of Yarrowia lipolytica with modified lipid profiles and other desirable properties for microbial oil production are widely reported but are almost exclusively characterized in synthetic laboratory-grade media. Ensuring translatable performance between synthetic media and industrially scalable lignocellulosic feedstocks is a critical challenge. Yarrowia lipolytica growth and lipid production were characterized in media derived from two-step acid-catalyzed glycerol pretreatment of sugarcane bagasse. Fermentation performance was benchmarked against laboratory-grade synthetic growth media, including detailed characterization of media composition, nitrogen utilization, biomass and lipid production, and fatty acid product profile. A Yarrowia lipolytica strain modified to enable xylose consumption consumed all sugars, glycerol, and acetic acid, accumulating lipids to 34–44 % of cell dry weight. Growth and lipid content when grown in sugarcane bagasse-derived media were equivalent to or better than that observed with synthetic media. These sugarcane bagasse-derived media are suitable for transferable development of Yarrowia lipolytica fermentations from synthetic media.

Rare earth element Ce-doped floral In2O3 with high sensing performance for n-butanol

Pure In2O3 and the graded flower-shaped In2O3 structures doped with Ce, a rare earth element, were synthesized by an easy-to-operate template-free hydrothermal method, and the high sensing performance of the sensor for n-butanol was investigated. The micro-morphology and elemental compositions of the samples and their valence states were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, XPS and other testing methods. The morphological and compositional characterization showed that Ce doping is able to cause lattice distortion, which affects the sensing performance. The gas-sensitive test results revealed that 3 wt% Ce-doped In2O3 has the best sensing performance. At the optimal operating temperature of 320 °C, the response of 3 wt% Ce-In2O3 to 100 ppm n-butanol was as high as 225.63, which was 3.7 times higher than that of the pure In2O3 sensor (60.36). In addition, the Ce-doped In2O3 sensor also exhibited excellent selectivity, repeatability, long-term stability, and large specific surface area (73.1104 m2g-1). This study enhances the understanding of the mechanism of rare earth element doping to improve gas-sensitive properties and provides a new effective strategy for designing high-performance gas-sensitive materials.It also provides new ideas for the efficient detection of the toxic gas n-butanol.

Diversity of bacterial communities in wetlands of Calakmul Biosphere Reserve: a comparative analysis between conserved and semi-urbanized zones in pre-Mayan Train era

BackgroundThe Calakmul Biosphere Reserve (CBR) is known for its rich animal and plant biodiversity, yet its microbial communities remain largely unknown. The reserve does not possess permanent bodies of water; nevertheless, seasonal depressions associated with fractures create wetlands, known locally as aguadas. Given the recent construction of the Maya train that crosses the CRB, it is essential to assess the biodiversity of its microorganisms and recognize their potential as a valuable source of goods. This evaluation is pivotal in mitigating potential mismanagement of the forest ecosystem. To enhance comprehension of microbial communities, we characterized the microbiota in three different wetlands. Ag-UD1 and Ag-UD2 wetlands are located in a zone without human disturbances, while the third, Ag-SU3, is in a semi-urbanized zone. Sampling was carried out over three years (2017, 2018, and 2019), enabling the monitoring of spatiotemporal variations in bacterial community diversity. The characterization of microbiome composition was conducted using 16S rRNA metabarcoding. Concurrently, the genomic potential of select samples was examined through shotgun metagenomics.ResultsStatistical analysis of alpha and beta diversity indices showed significant differences among the bacterial communities found in undisturbed sites Ag-UD1 and Ag-UD2 compared to Ag-SU3. However, no significant differences were observed among sites belonging to the undisturbed area. Furthermore, a comparative analysis at the zone level reveals substantial divergence among the communities, indicating that the geographic location of the samples significantly influences these patterns. The bacterial communities in the CBR wetlands predominantly consist of genera from phyla Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Proteobacteria.ConclusionThis characterization has identified the composition of microbial communities and provided the initial overview of the metabolic capacities of the microbiomes inhabiting the aguadas across diverse conservation zones. The three sites exhibit distinct microbial compositions, suggesting that variables such as chemical composition, natural and anthropogenic disturbances, vegetation, and fauna may play a pivotal role in determining the microbial structure of the aguadas. This study establishes a foundational baseline for evaluating the impact of climatic factors and human interventions on critical environments such as wetlands.

Compositional and structural characterization of eleven types of lignocellulosic biomass and its potential application in obtaining nanopolysaccharides and producing polyhydroxyalkanoates

Compositional and structural characterization of eleven types of lignocellulosic biomass and its potential application in obtaining nanopolysaccharides and producing polyhydroxyalkanoates

Multi-omics identification of extracellular components of the fetal monkey and human neocortex.

During development, precursor cells are continuously and intimately interacting with their extracellular environment, which guides their ability to generate functional tissues and organs. Much is known about the development of the neocortex in mammals. This information has largely been derived from histological analyses, heterochronic cell transplants, and genetic manipulations in mice, and to a lesser extent from transcriptomic and histological analyses in humans. However, these approaches have not led to a characterization of the extracellular composition of the developing neocortex in any species. Here, using a combination of single-cell transcriptomic analyses from published datasets, and our proteomics and immunohistofluorescence analyses, we provide a more comprehensive and unbiased picture of the early developing fetal neocortex in humans and non-human primates. Our findings provide a starting point for further hypothesis-driven studies on structural and signaling components in the developing cortex that had previously not been identified.

Isolation, Characterization and Determination of Structural Composition of Ocimum Tenuiflorum (Krishna Tulsi Plant) by IR, NMR, Mass Spectroscopy.

therapeutic and medicinal uses. This evergreen leaf, which is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, is well known around the world for its versatility and capacity to treat a wide range of illnesses. Objective: The primary goal of this bioanalytical investigation is to identify and structurally clarify the principal phytoconstituents found in the Ocimum tenuiflorum ethanolic extract. Method: In this phyto-analysis, spectral analysis was used to clarify the structure of the phytoconstituents that were extracted from the Ocimum tenuiflorum plant using column chromatography. Result and Conclusion: Using spectrum analysis (I.R., NMR, and mass spectroscopy), two significant isolates from Ocimum tenuiflorum, Apigenin and Carnosic Acid, were found and their structures clarified.

Spatial Heterogeneity of PD-1/PD-L1 Defined Osteosarcoma Microenvironments at Single-Cell Spatial Resolution

Osteosarcoma, predominantly affecting children and adolescents, is a highly aggressive bone cancer with a 5-year survival rate of 65% to 70%. The spatial dynamics between tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) and other cellular subtypes, including T cells, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts, are critical for understanding the complexities of the osteosarcoma tumor microenvironment (TME) and can provide insights into potential immunotherapeutic strategies. Our study employs a pioneering approach that combines deep learning-based digital image analysis with multiplex fluorescence immunohistochemistry to accurately implement cell detection, segmentation, and fluorescence intensity measurements for the in-depth study of the TME. We introduce a novel algorithm for TAM/osteoclast differentiation, crucial for the accurate characterization of cellular composition. Our findings reveal distinct heterogeneity in cell composition and spatial orchestration between PD-1 (−/+) and PD-L1 (−/+) patients, highlighting the role of T-cell functionality in this context. Furthermore, our analysis demonstrates the efficacy of nivolumab in suppressing tumor growth and enhancing lymphocyte infiltration without altering the M1/M2-TAM ratio. This study provides critical insights into the spatial orchestration of cellular subtypes within the PD-1/PD-L1 defined osteosarcoma TME. By leveraging advanced multiplex fluorescence immunohistochemistry and artificial intelligence, we underscore the critical role of TAMs and T-cell interactions, proposing new therapeutic avenues focusing on TAM repolarization and targeted immunotherapies, thus underscoring the study’s potential impact on improving osteosarcoma treatment.

Microbial Community Structure and Metabolic Function in the Venom Glands of the Predatory Stink Bug, Picromerus lewisi (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae).

The predatory stink bug, Picromerus lewisi (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is an important and valuable natural enemy of insect pests in their ecosystems. While insects are known to harbor symbiotic microorganisms, and these microbial symbionts play a crucial role in various aspects of the host's biology, there is a paucity of knowledge regarding the microbiota present in the venom glands of P. lewisi. This study investigated the venom glands of adult bugs using both traditional in vitro isolation and cultural methods, as well as Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology. Additionally, the carbon metabolism of the venom gland's microorganisms was analyzed using Biolog ECO metabolic phenotyping technology. The results showed 10 different culturable bacteria where the dominant ones were Enterococcus spp. and Lactococcus lactis. With high-throughput sequencing, the main bacterial phyla in the microbial community of the venom glands of P. lewisi were Proteobacteria (78.1%) and Firmicutes (20.3%), with the dominant bacterial genera being Wolbachia, Enterococcus, Serratia, and Lactococcus. At the fungal community level, Ascomycota accounted for the largest proportion (64.1%), followed by Basidiomycota (27.6%), with Vishniacozyma, Cladosporium, Papiliotrema, Penicillium, Fusarium, and Aspergillus as the most highly represented fungal genera. The bacterial and fungal community structure of the venom glands of P. lewisi exhibited high species richness and diversity, along with a strong metabolism of 22 carbon sources. Functional prediction indicated that the primary dominant function of P. lewisi venom-gland bacteria was metabolism. The dominant eco-functional groups of the fungal community included undefined saprotroph, fungal parasite-undefined saprotroph, unassigned, endophyte-plant pathogen, plant pathogen-soil saprotroph-wood saprotroph, animal pathogen-endophyte-plant pathogen-wood saprotroph, plant pathogen, and animal pathogen-endophyte-epiphyte-plant pathogen-undefined saprotroph. These results provide a comprehensive characterization of the venom-gland microbiota of P. lewisi and demonstrate the stability (over one week) of the microbial community within the venom glands. This study represents the first report on the characterization of microbial composition from the venom glands of captive-reared P. lewisi individuals. The insights gained from this study are invaluable for future investigations into P. lewisi's development and the possible interactions between P. lewisi's microbiota and some Lepidopteran pests.

Shaoyao-Gancao Decoction, a famous Chinese medicine formula, protects against APAP-induced liver injury by promoting autophagy/mitophagy

BackgroundAcetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatotoxicity is a major cause of acute liver failure (ALF), during which autophagy is triggered as a cellular defense mechanism. Shaoyao-Gancao Decoction (SGD), a traditional prescription in Chinese Medicine, is renowned for its therapeutic effects on liver diseases. However, the efficacy and mechanisms of SGD in treating APAP-induced liver injury remain underexplored. PurposeThis study aims to provide robust evidence regarding the protective effects of SGD against APAP overdose in vitro and in vivo, as well as to elucidate its hepatoprotective mechanisms and active components. Study designThe hepatoprotective mechanisms and active components of SGD were investigated through a combination of in vivo and in vitro experiments. MethodsThe protective effects of SGD on APAP-induced liver injury were assessed using a murine model and primary hepatocytes. RNA sequencing and subsequent experimental validations were conducted to uncover the underlying mechanisms of SGD's hepatoprotective actions. Comprehensive chemical profiling of SGD was performed using UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap HRMS to identify potential active ingredients. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and flow cytometry were utilized to investigate the specific cellular changes in liver tissues and hepatocytes influenced by SGD. ResultsSGD was observed to mitigate APAP-induced mitochondrial damage, inflammation, and necrosis by promoting mitochondrial autophagy. The inhibition of autophagy negated the hepatoprotective effects of SGD. Additionally, a detailed characterization of SGD's chemical composition revealed that Licoisoflavone B, Liquiritin, Liquiritin apioside, Licorice saponin G2 and Paeoniflorin Sulfit were potentially critical compounds in the regulation of autophagy and mitophagy. ConclusionOur findings demonstrate that SGD promotes autophagy/mitophagy, which effectively mitigates APAP-induced hepatotoxicity, suggesting SGD's potential as a promising therapeutic agent for APAP-induced liver injury.

Multimodal three-dimensional characterization of murine skeletal muscle micro-scale elasticity, structure, and composition: Impact of dysferlinopathy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and age on three hind-limb muscles

Skeletal muscle tissue function is governed by the mechanical properties and organization of its components, including myofibers, extracellular matrix, and adipose tissue, which can be modified by the onset and progression of many disorders. This study used a novel combination of quantitative micro-elastography and clearing-enhanced three-dimensional (3D) microscopy to assess 3D micro-scale elasticity and micro-architecture of muscles from two muscular dystrophies: dysferlinopathy and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, using male BLA/J and mdx mice, respectively, and their wild-type (WT) controls. We examined three muscles with varying proportions of slow- and fast-twitch myofibers: the soleus (predominantly slow), extensor digitorum longus (EDL; fast), and quadriceps (mixed), from BLA/J and WTBLA/J mice aged 3, 10, and 24 months, and mdx and WTmdx mice aged 10 months. Both dysferlin deficiency and age reduced the elasticity and variability of elasticity of the soleus and quadriceps, but not EDL. Overall, the BLA/J soleus was 20% softer than WT and less mechanically heterogeneous (−14% in standard deviation of elasticity). The BLA/J quadriceps at 24 months was 72% softer than WT and less mechanically heterogeneous (−59% in standard deviation), with substantial adipose tissue accumulation. While mdx muscles did not differ quantitatively from WT, regional heterogeneity was evident in micro-scale elasticity and micro-architecture of quadriceps (e.g., 11.2 kPa in a region with marked pathology vs 3.8 kPa in a less affected area). These results demonstrate differing biomechanical changes in hind-limb muscles of two distinct muscular dystrophies, emphasizing the potential for this novel multimodal technique to identify important differences between various myopathies.

Bone Marrow Adiposity Alterations in Postmenopausal Women With Type 2 Diabetes Are Site-Specific.

Bone marrow adiposity (BMAT) alterations in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may contribute to adverse bone effects. Characterization of BMAT content and composition in patients with well-controlled T2DM. This cross-sectional study included 2 groups of postmenopausal women: one with T2DM and the other without. The proton density fat fraction (PDFF) of the lumbar spine and proximal femur, comprising the femoral head, neck, and diaphysis, was assessed using chemical shift-based water-fat separation imaging (WFI). Magnetic resonance imaging with spectroscopy (1H-MRS) was performed in a subgroup of participants to confirm the PDFF measurements and determine the apparent lipid unsaturation level (aLUL) at the L3 vertebrae and femoral neck. The association of imaging-based PDFFs and aLUL between diabetes groups was investigated by adjusting for confounding factors using a linear mixed model. Among 199 participants, patients with T2DM (n = 29) were significantly heavier (P < .001) and had a higher bone mineral density (BMD) (P < .001 for all sites) than nondiabetic patients (n = 170). When PDFFs were compared after adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI), and BMD, the femoral head WFI-based PDFF was lower in patients with T2DM (mean [standard error] 88.0% [0.7] vs 90.6% [0.3], P < .001). Moreover, the aLUL at the L3 vertebrae was lower in patients with T2DM (n = 16) than in without (n = 97) (mean [standard error] 3.9% [0.1] vs 4.3% [0.1], P = .02). The content and composition of BMAT are modified in postmenopausal women with T2DM and these changes occur at specific sites.

An evaluation of the consistency of data and models for performance assessment: Divalent metal sorption on montmorillonite

A detailed analysis of literature data on the retention of divalent metal by purified montmorillonite or montmorillonite-rich material (e.g. bentonite) was conducted. Data for which sufficient experimental conditions were available were modeled with the 2SPNE SC/CE model available in the literature, and with a “minimalist” model, which uses a minimum number of parameters to reproduce the data.A successful data modeling could only be achieved if considering (i) cation exchange competition with aqueous Ca2+ and Mg2+, originating from the dissolution of the clay mineral itself or accessory minerals and (ii) precipitation, at high pH, of phases incorporating the divalent metal of interest. However, in many studies, the concentration of aqueous Ca2+ and Mg2+ and, more generally, a full characterization of solution composition (e.g., Si, Al, dissolved organic carbon, alkalinity) is not provided, thus impeding accurate data modeling. Further difficulties stem from uncertainties related to the nature of the solids precipitating at high pH and missing or inaccurate thermodynamic data related to mineral solubility.Log KD values cannot be predicted from available literature data with an accuracy better than ±1 log unit, without sorption data obtained on a material representative of in situ conditions. In addition, the most reactive sites, commonly referred to as strong sites, which have been characterized only on some, but not all, reference clay materials, should not be considered in blind predictions based on the mineralogical composition of clay materials.

Photon-Counting Computed Tomography Angiography of Carotid Arteries: A Topical Narrative Review with Case Examples.

Photon counting computed tomography (PCCT) represents a paradigm shift from conventional CT imaging, propelled by a new generation of X-ray detectors capable of counting individual photons and measuring their energy. The first part of this narrative review is focused on the technical aspects of PCCT and describes its key advancements and benefits compared to conventional CT but also its limitations. By synthesizing the existing literature, the second part of the review seeks to elucidate the potential of PCCT as a valuable tool for assessing carotid artery disease. Thanks to the enhanced spatial resolution and image quality, PCCT allows for an accurate evaluation of carotid luminal stenosis. With its ability to finely discriminate between different tissue types, PCCT allows for detailed characterization of plaque morphology and composition, which is crucial for assessing plaque vulnerability and the risk of cerebrovascular events.

Analysis of Acoustic Absorption Coefficients and Characterization of Epoxy Adhesive Compositions Based on the Reaction Product of Bisphenol A with Epichlorohydrin Modified with Fillers.

Material development in acoustic engineering plays a significant role in various applications, such as industrial noise control. It is important and relevant to consider alternative materials capable of reducing noise levels in different frequency ranges. One commonly used material in engineering structures is epoxy adhesive compositions. Favoring the use of adhesive compositions are their main characteristics, including weight reduction in structures, corrosion resistance, relatively low manufacturing costs, and high mechanical strength. This paper aims to discuss the relationship between the mechanical properties of modified epoxy adhesives, their structure, and sound absorption efficiency. The subjects of this study were specimens of an epoxy composition in the cured state. Acoustic absorption coefficients were evaluated using a dual-microphone impedance tube, and tensile, compressive, and bending strength properties were determined using a testing machine. The impact strength of the compositions was also investigated. An analysis of the structure of the adhesives in the cured state was carried out using a scanning electron microscope. The test specimens were made from Epidian 5 epoxy resin cured with a polyamide PAC curing agent. Nanobent ZR2 aluminosilicate in an amount of 1%, CaCO3 calcium carbonate in an amount of 5%, and CWZ-22 activated carbon in an amount of 20% were used as modifiers. The conducted studies revealed that the highest tensile strength was obtained for the adhesive composition with the addition of ZR2 filler. The highest compressive strength was exhibited by the adhesive composition with the addition of CWZ-22 filler. The highest flexural strength was demonstrated by the unmodified composition. For all the tested adhesive compositions, low sound absorption values were achieved, with a maximum of approximately 0.18. From the perspective of the reduction index R, it was observed that these samples performed better in reduction than in absorption. The best values were achieved in the compositions modified with CaCO3.