Fraction Content Research Articles

Changes in dust concentration in a gas-dust cloud during blasting in an iron ore pit

In open-pit extraction of minerals emit large amounts of harmful dust fractions and gas into the atmosphere. This leads to atmospheric pollution in open pit and sanitary protection zones. The largest dust emissions are observed during blasting operations in open pits. This is especially the cases when unfavorable meteorological conditions occur, means of dust sup-pression are not sufficiently effective, blasting technology was violated. Dust particles are known to be able to propagate long distances from the source of the explosion. Dust fractions up to 10 µm diameter are the most dangerous, as they are the main risk factor for the devel-opment of chronic respiratory diseases. In particular, according to European standards, the average daily concentration of dust particles with a diameter between 2.5 and 10 µm should not exceed 0.05 mg/m3. The paper estimates mass concentrations of dust fractions in the gas-dust cloud at the dynamic stage of its formation after a mass explosion in an iron ore open pit. The following assumptions were made in the calculations: no influence of the temperature factor (ejected air flows); dust particles are spherical; flow of dust fractions by the gas flow follows the Stokes law. The ranges of variation of ascent height and mass concentrations of dust fractions at the dynamic stage of gas-dust cloud formation are established. In particular, the lift height of the dust fraction is directly proportional to the value of the dynamic impulse. The differ-ence in mass concentrations of dust fractions in the gas-dust cloud is due to the physical and mechanical properties of rocks destroyed by boreholes explosive substance charge. When de-termining the mass concentrations of dust fractions, the results of experimental studies were used, which were carried out in the open pit of Ingulec Mining and Processing Combine. The graphical dependence of average mass concentrations of dust fractions depending on the height of their ascent at the dynamic stage of gas-dust cloud formation is presented, the re-gression equation in the form of a degree function is obtained. The results of calculations have shown that the greatest intensity of mass concentration increase in the gas-dust cloud at the dynamic stage of its formation is characteristic of dust fractions with diameter up to 31 μm. The intensity of growth of mass concentrations of larger dust fractions decreases markedly.

Phenolic, antioxidant capacity and antinutritional compounds in different Australian acacia seeds

Abstract The polyphenols, antioxidant activities and antinutrients in Acacia seeds of different species, growing locations and harvest years were characterised in this study. The main phenolic compounds were 6-hydroxy-2-methylindole and 2,2′-methylenebis(6-tert-butyl-methylphenol). The total phenolic and total flavonoid contents of the free polyphenol fractions were positively correlated, while the total phenolic content and ABTS, DPPH and ORAC of the bound fractions were negatively correlated. There were no differences in trypsin and chymotrypsin inhibition activities across all seed batches. The lowest phytate (11.1038 ± 0.006 mg/g) and tannin contents (2.0323 ± 0.7462%) were found in Acacia retinodes Amphitheatre 2020 and A. retinodes Firgrove 2022, respectively. The highest saponin (45.4578 ± 12.2990%) and oxalate contents (4.2396 ± 0.7949%) were found in A. retinodes Grampians 2020 and A. retinodes Firgrove 2020, respectively. The results of this study showed differences in antioxidant activities and antinutrients content which implies that compositional values should not be extrapolated between different species and harvest years.

Design of experiments method into upgrading pyrolytic oil for sustainable aviation fuel additives by hydrotreating and hydrocracking.

Recycling waste to produce liquid fuels for the automotive and aviation industries is a major global concern, especially in light of the ongoing energy crisis. Because waste is used in thermal conversion processes, the resulting liquid products often require additional processing to reduce their density and viscosity, and to remove oxygenated compounds or pollutants that hinder further utilization. Catalytic hydrogenolytic reactions such as hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) and hydrocracking (HC) have been extensively applied to upgrade pyrolysis oils. Selecting the appropriate catalyst and optimizing the process operating conditions are crucial for yielding high-quality fuel. Design of experiments (DOE) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) can identify the primary factors of the process and their possible interactions. This research focuses on the conversion of pyrolysis oil derived from car tires into jet fuel and aims to determine the optimal HDO and HC conditions to maximize the concentration of the kerosene fraction. Hydrodeoxygenation and hydrocracking reactions using NiMo/γ-Al2O3 catalysts are examined under varying temperature, pressure, and time conditions. The compositions of the raw tire pyrolysis oil (TPO) are mainly characterized by heteroatom content, aromatic compounds, olefins and acetylenes, alkanes, and cycloalkanes, which play key roles during HDO and HC procedures. Subsequently, the distillation and separation of the fuel fractions are carried out to determine the quality of the product.

Clinical relevance of tumor fraction assessment from circulating tumor DNA in metastatic colorectal cancer.

237 Background: Both tissue (TBx) and liquid (LBx) biopsies are indicated for detecting actionable alterations in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). LBx is easier to obtain and often has faster turnaround time, but its informative results depend on the ctDNA tumor fraction (TF) content. We aimed to (1) evaluate the concordance between LBx and TBx in CRC; and (2) determine baseline lab and clinical factors associated with TF. Methods: CRC patients (pts) with both tissue and liquid Foundation Medicine comprehensive genomic profiling within an interval of up to 90 days between samples collection were analyzed. Positive percent agreement (PPA) and negative predictive value (NPV) for RAS (KRAS/NRAS) and BRAFV600E detection were calculated with tissue as reference. Clinical data was obtained by the US-wide de-identified Flatiron Health-Foundation Medicine real-world clinicogenomic CRC database, from ~280 cancer clinics (~800 sites of care) between 1/2011-12/2023. mCRC pts with LBx collected up to 60 days prior to therapy (Tx) start were analyzed for association between TF and baseline factors using logistic regression with TF≥1% as the binary outcome. Baseline factors include age, ECOG, race/ethnicity, line of therapy, practice type, metachronous vs. synchronous disease, tumor side, albumin, alkaline phosphatase (AP), serum creatinine, hemoglobin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, opioid and steroid pre-Tx. Foundation Medicine’s ctDNA TF is a composite algorithm prioritizing aneuploidy at higher levels to avoid germline signal and prioritizing variant allele frequency of canonical alterations at lower levels to maximize dynamic range. Results: A total of 402 pts had TBx and LBx (268 [67%] TF≥1% and 134 [33%] TF<1%). Without accounting for TF, the overall PPA for RAS and BRAFV600E was 77% and 83%, and the NPV was 65% and 99%. In LBx with TF≥1%, the PPA for RAS and BRAFV600E was 99% and 100%, and NPV was 98% and 100%. In contrast, for TF<1% samples, the PPA for RAS and BRAFV600E was 37% and 50%, and NPV was 57% and 97%. Of the 633 pts with LBx collected prior to Tx, 474 (75%) had TF≥1%. TF≥1% was independently associated with ECOG 1+ (odds ratio [OR]: 1.58, p=0.038), community oncology care site (OR: 2.58, p=0.002), elevated levels of AP (OR: 3.00, p<0.001) and LDH (OR: 3.97,p=0.002). TF≥1% was less likely to occur in right-side tumors (OR: 0.53, p=0.012) and metachronous disease (OR: 0.48, p<0.001). Conclusions: Approximately 70% of LBx samples from CRC pts have TF≥1%, with near-perfect concordance for RAS/BRAFV600E. For LBx with TF<1%, interpretation of negative results can be challenging due to low tumor shedding, especially for RAS mutations, where 43% may be false negatives and a subsequent TBx will provide more confidence in the negative results. Clinical factors such as right-sided tumors and metachronous disease may help anticipate low TF and guide decisions to pursue TBx.

Impact of Cooking Techniques on the Dietary Fiber Profile in Selected Cruciferous Vegetable

Cruciferous vegetables of the plant order Brassicales are an attractive dietary component and a valuable source of fiber. However, the nutritional–physiological properties are different when comparing soluble and insoluble fibers. Another significant impact is the transformation of fibers by different influencing factors during food preparation. Cruciferous vegetables, especially, are dominantly processed to soften the matrix. As a result, during cooking, the polysaccharides are dissolved, swelled, or degraded to a certain extent, influencing the composition and the nutritional–physiological properties. The aim of the present study was to analyze the impact of different cooking procedures on changes in the dietary fiber content profile of three different plants: white cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis), broccoli (B. oleracea L. var. italica), and Brussels sprouts (B. oleracea L. var. gemmifera). The sample material was subjected to direct (“in the water”) and steam cooking. The dietary fiber content and the content of its fractions were determined using an enzymatic analysis method. The results of the research show that the cooking process had a significant influence on the content of dietary fiber fractions in cruciferous vegetables. The concentration of insoluble dietary fiber decreased, whereas the content of soluble dietary fiber increased. When considering the average influence of each process, both steam cooking and direct cooking had a similar impact on changes in the concentrations of dietary fiber fractions. It can therefore be concluded that, when considering dietary fiber content, both processes can be equally well chosen as a thermal treatment for cruciferous vegetables.

Analysis of heat transfer of second-grade hybrid nanofluid and optimization using response surface methodology for thermal enhancement

The fluid flow and heat transfer applications in coaxial double-revolving disks are extensive and encompass multiple engineering and scientific disciplines. This study presents a comprehensive heat transfer analysis in a second-grade hybrid nanofluid. The fluid, influenced by variable thermal conductivity, is confined between two rotating disks in a magnetohydrodynamic Darcy-Forchheimer flow. The hybrid nanofluid combines titanium dioxide (TiO2) and cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) nanoparticles with engine oil. These issues have not been addressed in previous research. Similarity transformations make flow equations dimensionless. The resulting equations are solved using a semi-analytical approach called the homotopy analysis method (HAM). This approach provides flexibility in selecting the base function and an initial estimate. The temperature profile improved with higher values of the variable thermal conductivity parameter. Furthermore, the heat transfer rate was enhanced by increasing the variable thermal conductivity, the volume fraction concentration of TiO2, and the Reynolds number.The sensitivity analysis is performed using response surface methodology (RSM). Both the R-squared and adjusted R-squared values attain 100%. The heat transfer rate is found to have a maximum sensitivity of 0.50243 towards varying thermal conductivity parameters and a minimum sensitivity of -0.00666 towards magnetic field parameters. The research utilizes RSM to elucidate methods for improving heat transfer. This work offers practical solutions for developing more efficient thermal management systems. This research provides practical strategies for improving thermal management systems. These solutions are especially useful in rotating machinery-intensive industries. Designing biochemical and pharmaceutical microfluidic pumps and mixers requires understanding hybrid nanofluid flows between spinning disks.

Milk productivity of simmental cattle by combined kappacasein and somatotropin genes

The economically important productive traits of cattle that contribute to the development of the dairy industry are considered to be abundant milk yield, protein and fat content in milk. In recent years, breeders have focused their attention on cattle breeding programmes based on molecular genetic research methods. The potential of animal productivity largely depends on genetic variants of marker genes present in the genotype of an individual. The genes of kappa-casein and somatotropin are considered to be promising DNA markers, as they are responsible for qualitative and quantitative traits of cattle productivity. In this work we studied milk productivity of 84 cows of Simmental breed from the breeding plant in the Urals by kappa-casein and somatotropin genes, as well as by complex genes. On the gene kappa-casein on milk yield in advantage are individuals with genotypes CSN3AB 6937,6 kg. The higher content of protein in milk, milk fat and protein yield, as well as the sum of nutrients were recorded in cows with CSN3BB genotypes 3.40%, 282.5 kg, 234.2 kg and 516.7 kg, respectively. In terms of somatotropin gene, cows with GHVV genotypes had the most abundant milk production 7160.0 kg. In terms of protein-milk yield, coevals with GHLL genotypes are more productive 3.4 %. The sum of nutrients, milk fat and protein yield is more established in milk of cows with GHVV genotypes 522.7 kg, 293.6 kg and 229.1 kg, respectively. All nine possible variants of complex genotypes for kappa-casein and somatotropin genes occur in this Simmental herd: AA/LV 26 cows; AA/LL 14; AA/VV 12; AB/LL 13; AB/LV 10; AB/VV 2; BB/LL 4; BB/ VV 2; BB/LV 1. Data processing on the effect of complex genotypes on milk productivity included a number of 10 cows or more. Higher milk yield, milk protein content, milk fat and protein yield, and nutrient sum were found in AB/LL complex genotypes: 6756.0 kg, 3.4 %, 277.0 kg and 229.7 kg, 506.7 kg, respectively. Significant differences were found between cow groups in the content of mass fraction of protein.

The Transport of Sediments from the Cartagena-La Unión Mining District Leads to the Incorporation of Metal(loid)s into the Marine Environment

Extraction activities can have a significant impact on the environment due to the mobilization of trace elements. These elements can pose a risk to soils, biota, water, and human health when incorporated into nearby ecosystems. To evaluate the transfer of As, Cd, Pb, and Zn from mine areas to the marine environment, a study was conducted in the Cartagena-La Union mining district (SE Spain). The study area included the mouth of a stream affected by waste materials from tailing ponds. In addition, a maritime area without mining influence was selected as a control site. Sediment samples were collected (three transects with nine sampling points and three depths) at the El Gorguel shoreline, and analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity, total metal(loid)s content, water-soluble anions, and metal(loid)s in chemical fraction distribution. Water and biota samples (Paracentrotus lividus, Patella vulgata, Hexaplex trunculus, Anemonia viridis, and Trachinotus ovatus) were also collected for metal(loid) content analysis. The results showed that the metal(loid)s concentration in the sediment increased compared to the control site, which was not influenced by mining activities. The chemical composition of metal(loid)s in the sediments revealed that Cd is the most hazardous element due to its high concentration in the labile fractions (20%), suggesting easy transfer to the marine environment. However, transfer mechanisms should be studied in various scenarios with different climatic, wave, and tidal conditions. Marine biota metal(loid)s concentrations showed an increase in specimens collected under the influence of mining activities but without exceeding limits that would affect incorporation into the trophic chain. Consequently, bioaccumulation and biomagnification processes must be considered in a future biomonitoring program.

Pollution of the Main Components of the Natural Environment of the Most Developed Part of the Southwestern Coast of Lake Baikal (within the Baikal Municipal Formation)

The data of landscape-geochemical studies of the main components of the environment (snow, surface water, soils and vegetation) near the sedimentation ponds of the industrial site of the former Baikal pulp and paper mill, Baikalsk, at the mouth of the Kharlakta and Babkha rivers on the southwestern coast of Lake Baikal are presented. Increased content of heavy (HM) and alkaline-earth metals, SO42–, NO3–, NH4+, PO43– was detected in the snow near the Baikalsk town, exceeding background readings. Concentrations of F–, NO3–, NH4+, Pb, Mo, Mn, Zn, Sr and V in surface waters of local lake shore sites exceed sanitary and hygienic norms. Soil contamination with HM in the recreational and industrial zone located on the shore of Lake Baikal has been revealed. Correlations between the concentrations of macro- and microelements in soils and their indicators such as the content of organic carbon and physical clay fraction have been established, which indicates the presence of biogeochemical barriers on which Na, Ni, Cu, Zn, Sr, Co accumulate in values above the background readings and MAC.

Joule Effect in Electrically Aligned CNFs: Toward Fast Heating of Liquids

Efficient use of heating systems is necessary from an environmental and economic perspective. This work analyses the Joule effect and the thermal transport properties of carbon nanofibers dispersed in ethylene–glycol aligned by applying a constant AC electric field. We tested several weight fraction concentrations from 0.1 % to 1 % wt of carbon nanofibers. The evolution of temperature and electric current as a function of time was analyzed. The amount of heat generated was quantified using Joule's law equation, and we estimated the thermal conductivity as a function of the concentration before and after the voltage application. The dependence of the temperature increase on the concentration of carbon nanofibers and electric voltage was investigated. Our work explores the viability of using carbon nanofiber dispersed in ethylene glycol in developing intelligent fluids useful for heat generation and release, with applications in heat management systems, such as those used for deicing.

Analysis of Polyphenolic Composition, Antioxidant Power and Stress-Response Effects of Fractionated Perilla Leaf Extract on Cells In Vitro

Background/Objectives: Perilla frutescens has historically been used to protect against inflammation and redox stress. This has been partly attributed to its high polyphenolic content; however, polyphenolic components in Perilla extract remain incompletely defined. This study aimed to characterise the polyphenolic composition in Perilla extract and evaluate its effect on the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), regulating antioxidant defenses during inflammation and oxidative stress. Methods: Hot water extraction from Perilla leaves was followed by fractionation using four solvents of different polarity, namely methanol, butanol, ethyl acetate and ether. The polyphenolic composition of these fractions was analysed using RP-HPLC, and some of these compounds were quantified. The total phenolic, flavonoid, and ortho-diphenolic contents of each Perilla fraction were determined. The antioxidant activity was assessed using metal cation reduction and radical scavenging assays. A dual-luciferase assay using a human NQO1 ARE-luciferase reporter plasmid was employed to quantify Nrf2 activation by the Perilla fractions. Results: HPLC analysis identified 35 polyphenolic compounds, with the highest phenolic content present in the polar fractions and rosmarinic acid being the major constituent. Radical scavenging tests (DPPH and ABTS) confirmed the highest antioxidant capacity in the polar fractions. On cells in vitro, the methanol Perilla fraction displayed the strongest antioxidant activity, showing up to a 1.5-fold increase in human NQO1 ARE-luciferase reporter induction. Conclusions: This study has shown that Perilla extract contains a diversity of polyphenolic compounds contributing to its potent antioxidant effects, with methanol and butanol being the most efficient extraction solvents. While rosmarinic acid is expected to be the major contributor towards providing protection against inflammation and redox stress, further work is required on the synergystic effects between different polyphenols.

Determination of the Antioxidant Capacity of Germinated and Yeast-Fermented Sweet and Bitter Lupin Seeds and Sprouts via Cyclic Voltammetry Compared to the Spectrophotometric and Photochemiluminescence Methods

This paper describes the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of sweet lupin (Lupinus luteus cv. Lord—LLL) and narrow-leaved bitter lupin (Lupinus angustifolius cv. Mirela—LAM) sprouts fermented by yeast, determined by deploying the updated analytical strategy based on three assays. The procedures covered electrochemical, spectrophotometric, and photochemiluminescence methods. Cyclic voltammetry (CV), the scavenging of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals (DPPH⦁), and photochemiluminescence (PCL) assays against superoxide anion radicals were applied to hydrophilic (ACW) and lipophilic (ACL) fractions, and the data obtained were used to calculate the TAC after sequence extraction of the samples with 80% methanol followed by methanol/hexane (4:1; v/v). The total polyphenol content (TPC) in the hydrophilic fractions was measured using Folin–Ciocalteu reagent. The fermentation of the LLL and LAM seeds had no impact on the antioxidant capacity of their H fractions, whereas it increased the content of their L fractions up to 56%. The germinated lupin seeds of both cultivars showed slightly increased TAC than the fermented ones. The TPC in the yeast-fermented sprouts was slightly higher compared to the LLL sprouts, about twofold higher than in the fermented LLL seeds, and finally almost fivefold higher compared to the LLL seeds. A beneficial effect of fermentation was found with respect to LAM materials. The TAC of the fermented LLL and LAM sprouts measured via CV and PCL assays was almost twofold higher and eight and six times higher, respectively, compared to the seeds. These findings clearly suggest that the seeds of yellow sweet lupin (Lupinus luteus cv. Lord) are the most suitable for producing fermented sprouts with a high content of electroactive polar compounds able to scavenge multiple free radicals of biological and non-biological origin. The updated analytical strategy for the determination of the total antioxidant capacity proved to be a viable tool for screening processed lupin seeds.

Double emulsion (W/O/W) added with hydro-ethanolic extract of Randia monantha stabilized with jackfruit leaf protein fraction: Optimization, characterization, and antifungal activity

The extract of Randia monantha contains high-value biological compounds (HVBC), such as polyphenols with antifungal properties. However, their bio-functional properties are vulnerable to environmental conditions. Ultrasound-assisted emulsification (UAEm) offers a viable protective delivery system. Then, to optimize UAEm conditions for a stable double emulsion supplemented with hydro-ethanolic extract of Randia monantha, a Box-Behnken design was used. The variables included protein fraction (1.3-2%), pre-emulsion ratio (O:W, 1:3.5-1:4.5 mL:mL), and amplitude (40–60%). The response variables were PDI, D[3,2] (µm) and D[4,3] (µm). Response surface methodology revealed that 2% protein fraction concentration, 1:4.5 pre-emulsion ratio (O:W, mL:mL), and a 45% amplitude, produced the emulsion with the lowest PDI (1.10 ± 0.04), D[3,2] (0.57 ± 0.01) and D[4,3] (0.67 ± 0.02). The optimal emulsion completely inhibited Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Penicillium digitatum mycelial growth, attributed to HVBC protection during emulsification. Furthermore, the emulsion demonstrated both photo and thermal stability, as well as resilience under industrial conditions, including storage time at various temperatures, varying pH, and NaCl concentrations. This highlights the potential use of jackfruit leaf protein fraction as a sustainable plant-based alternative to animal emulsifiers, for the generation of a new biomaterial derived from agricultural waste.

Lipoprotein composition of calves before and after weaning and comparison with adult cows

Calves experience a significant decrease in dietary lipid intake with weaning. However, changes in lipoprotein metabolism during this period has not been described. Therefore, to evaluate changes in lipoprotein metabolism by weaning and age, differences in lipoprotein lipid concentrations and proportions were compared before and after weaning and between calves and adult cows. Blood samples were collected from 27 Holstein calves before (4 weeks old) and after weaning (13 weeks old). Blood samples were also collected from 10 adult cows (5 dry and 5 lactating cows). As the results, total lipid concentrations (triglycerides + total cholesterol + phospholipids) in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were higher for pre-weaning calves than those in post-weaning calves. However, there were no differences in lipid proportions contained in each fraction. Lipid concentrations were higher in adult cows than in calves for all fractions: very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), LDL and HDL. The proportion of total cholesterol and phospholipids in the LDL fraction was higher in calves compared to adult cows and the proportion of lipids in the HDL fraction was higher in adult cows compared to calves. These results showed that weaning caused litte changes in lipid concentrations in each lipoprotein fraction, but that adult cows showed higher lipid concentration in VLDL, LDL, and HDL. In addition, more lipids were contained in HDL for adult cows than in calves.

Chemical Characterization and Evaluation of the Anti-Cancer Potential of Flowers from Fridericia platyphylla (Bignoniaceae)

In this study, we aimed to investigate the anticancer activity of the extract, fractions, and isolated compounds of the flowers of Fridericia platyphylla, and to characterize the bioactive compounds. The chemical diversity of the extracts and fractions was investigated using liquid chromatography coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). We were able to annotate 26 compounds from the classes of flavones, flavonols, flavanones, isoflavones, and cinnamic acid and its derivatives. The dichloromethane fraction showed greater cytotoxicity at a concentration of 100 µg mL-1. In addition, the inhibitory concentrations of the dichloromethane fraction were 22.14 and 30.9 µg mL-1 for MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines, respectively, and were capable of inhibiting tumor cell migration. Brachydins A and C were isolated from the dichloromethane fraction and showed the greatest cytotoxicity. The results obtained from this study show the potential biological effect of F. platyphylla flowers as a possible antitumor pharmacological agent

In vitro ruminal fermentation, methane emissions, and nutritional value of different tropical feedstuffs for ruminants

Objective: This research aimed to evaluate in vitro ruminal fermentation, methane (CH4) emissions, and the relationship between the nutritional content and CH4 emissions of tropical feedstuffs to formulate low CH4-emitting feeds for ruminants. Materials and Methods: Eighteen feedstuffs, including roughages (3 crop residues, 2 silages, 3 common grasses, and 4 leguminous fodder) and 6 concentrates, were evaluated using the Hohenheim Gas Test. Approximately 200 mg of feed were incubated with a rumen fluid-buffer solution for 72 h to test gas production (GP) and 120 mg for 24 h to determine the CH4 con-centration in the gas. Digestibility of organic matter (dOM) and metabolizable energy (ME) were calculated using GP data. Results: Leguminous fodder contained the highest crude protein (CP) concentration (166–314 gm/kg dry matter (DM)), followed by common grasses (52–147 gm/kg DM) and silages (94–106 gm/kg DM), but the lowest concentration of detergent fiber fractions. Crushed wheat and maize had higher dOM and ME (87.8% and 90.9%, and 14.4 MJ/kg DM and 13.8 MJ/kg DM, respectively), and their CH4 concentration (% of GP) and CH4 emissions (L CH4/kg dOM) followed a similar trend as the other feedstuffs. The dOM and ME of German grass and Ipil-ipil were higher, whereas the CH4 concentration and CH4 emissions were lower compared to crop residues and other common grasses. The CH4 emissions originating from the feedstuffs were positively correlated with the concentration of neutral detergent fiber and GP and negatively correlated with CP. Conclusion: Our result provides an opportunity to select feed ingredients with higher digestibility and concurrently less CH4 emissions in formulating diets for ruminants when using commonly available feed resources in many tropical countries. This may enhance animal productive performances while reducing the impact of animal production on the environment.

Key comparison CCQM-K78.b - non-polar analytes in organic solvent: methoxychlor and trifluralin in acetonitrile

Main textThe CCQM-K78.b key comparison was coordinated by the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) on behalf of the CCQM Organic Analysis Working Group (OAWG) of the 'Comité Consultatif pour la Quantité de Matière' (CCQM), for National Measurement Institutes (NMIs) and Designated Institutes (DIs) providing measurement services in organic analysis under the 'Comité International des Poids et Mesures' (CIPM) Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA).This key comparison was conducted as a 'Track A' comparison within the OAWG's 10-year strategic plan. The goal of CCQM-K78.b was to underpin capabilities for the value assignment of calibration solutions containing low polarity/non-polar organic analytes in organic solvents. The selected model system consisted of a two-component pesticide solution in acetonitrile, comprising methoxychlor and trifluralin.Participants were tasked with assigning the mass fractions, in units of μg/g, of methoxychlor and trifluralin in acetonitrile solution. The mass fraction levels and analytical challenges of the selected analytes were representative of those encountered for calibration solutions of non-polar organic analytes. Participation in CCQM-K78.b allowed for the benchmarking of capabilities for assigning the mass fraction of non-polar organic compounds (pKow < -2) in solution, at mass fractions above 5 μg/g, in an organic solvent. Additionally, the comparison assessed the capabilities for the quantitative assignment of thermally labile compounds.Participants were provided by the BIPM with ampoules containing methoxychlor and trifluralin in acetonitrile. Each participant reported the mass fraction content of each analyte in μg/g. All participants ensured the metrological traceability of their results through the use of a Primary Reference Material (PRM), which was used to prepare a primary calibrator solution for each analyte using a gravimetric procedure. The twenty participating institutes primarily used analysis procedures based on GC-MS, -IDMS, -MS/MS, -ECD, and -FID, with some participants also using LC-UV for the value assignment.The analysis of methoxychlor and trifluralin in acetonitrile solution presented several challenges, including the thermal stability of the analytes under selected analytical techniques, control of solvent volatility, and considerable variation in some results using MS-based quantification methods. The mass fraction assignments for methoxychlor and trifluralin, consistent with the key comparison reference values (KCRVs), were achieved with associated relative standard uncertainties of (0.38 - 2.9) % for methoxychlor and (0.35 - 2.5) % for trifluralin.To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

The use of calcined oyster shell and rock flour to improve the nutritive value of rice straw preserved in airtight wrapping for feeding cattle under a tethered herding system

Rice straws are a cheap source of fodder, but they are underutilized as feed due to their low voluntary intake and susceptibility to physical and microbial damage. The present study aimed to define the beneficial effect of calcined oyster shells and rock flour as preservative agents to maintain the physical appearance, palatable component, moisture, nutrient content, and nutritional value of rice straw preserved in an airtight wrapping method. Rice straws in intact and fresh form were sprayed with 1.2% molasses and 0.15% urea solution and sprinkled with 1% calcined oyster shell (cOS), 1% calcined rock flour (cRF), and a mixture of 0.5% cOS+0.5% cRF. The straws were preserved in airtight wrapping for 60 days. Fresh and preserved straws were assessed for organoleptic values, botanical fractions, and proximate and fiber fraction content. The nutritive values were evaluated through a feeding trial using young Pesisir bulls reared under a tethering herding system. There were four experimental diets: fresh rice straw (FRS), cOS preserved rice straw, cRF preserved rice straw, and cOS+cRF preserved rice straw. Parameters measured included DM intake, weight gain, blood hematology, protein, and mineral profiles. Results found that preserved rice straws had higher moisture and crude protein content than fresh straws. Preserved rice straws supplemented with a mixture of calcined shells and rock flour had significantly better texture and microbial status than that of either calcined shell or rock flour. Feeding preserved rice straw supplemented with a mixture of calcined shells and rock flour improved body weight gain that was not significantly different from the fresh straw. In conclusion, using preservatives as a mixture of calcined shells and rock flours produces the best-preserved rice straw for feeding cattle.

Statistical and numerical analysis of MHD nanofluid (TiO2/EG) flow on a nonlinear curved stretching surface with heat source: A RSM approach

AbstractMany applications in science and engineering use the idea of MHD nanofluid flow past a nonlinear curved stretching surface. Particularly in the development and production of coatings for solar cells, fiber sheets, wires, and optical fibers. From the perspective of such applications, the major objective of existing research is to study the titanium oxide/ethylene glycol (TiO2/EG) nanofluid flow past a nonlinear curved elongating surface in the occurrence of a magnetic field and heat source. In this study, nonlinear coupled partial differential equations with no‐slip and convective boundary constraints have been used to construct the mathematical model that describes the fluid flow. After utilizing the similarity variables, the nondimensional form of equations is approximated by the Runge–Kutta method combined with the Newton iteration scheme. Further, the novelty of the study lies in employing response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize the significance of important factors, which are most likely the Biot number, volume fraction, and the magnetic parameter that impact heat transfer characteristics. This approach facilitates the development of ideal operating conditions for improved performance. In summary, this examination finds that as the volume fraction concentration increases, the shear rate progressively increases, and with a higher Biot number, the heat transfer rate also increases.

PROGNOSTIC MODEL OF THE DIABETIC RETINOPATHY PROGRESSION IN TYPE 2 DIABETES

Background. Many prognostic models have been developed to predict diabetic complications, but predicting the progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains a challenge, as in the early stages of DR there are often no clear ophthalmologic criteria. Aim: develop a prognostic model of diabetic retinopathy progression based on the analysis of clinical data and blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and lipid metabolism. Materials and methods. We examined 358 patients (358 eyes) with T2DM and DR, who were divided into groups: Group 1 - with nonproliferative DR (NPDR; 189 eyes), Group 2 - with preproliferative DR (PPDR; 96 eyes) and Group 3 - with proliferative DR (PDD; 73 eyes). Patients were examined using ophthalmologic methods, fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), cholesterol, high (HDL), low (LDL) and very low (VLDL) density lipoproteins, triglycerides were determined in the blood serum by colorimetric method. The results of the study were analyzed using the EZR v.1.54 package (Austria). Conclusion. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of age and duration of T2DM (p&gt;0.05). Blood pressure and HbA1c gradually increased in the groups (p&lt;0.05). The content of cholesterol, lipoprotein fractions and triglycerides in groups 2 and 3 did not differ significantly, but was 1.05-1.19 times higher than in group 1 (p&lt;0.05). A positive effect on the risk of NPDR progression was found in the blood levels of VLDL, HbA1c, LDL, cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting glucose, as well as diastolic and systolic blood pressure (SBP). In a multivariate regression analysis, a 5-factor model of NPDR progression was built, which included age, SBP, and blood levels of HbA1c, LDL-C, and VLDL-C. The model had very good prediction quality (AUC=0.87) and high specificity (91.5%). Thus, predictors of NPDR progression were advanced age, high SBP, and increased blood HbA1c, LDL-C, and VLDL-C. The model can be recommended for confirming a high risk of NPDR progression in questionable clinical cases or as a criterion for evidence-based medical prognosis in appropriate expert systems.