Composite Samples Research Articles

Synergistic effect of ZnO-ZnFe2O4 heterostructures for enhanced surface catalytic activity in Cr(VI) reduction, green H2 generation and CO sensing: an experimental study supported by DFT.

Increasing energy demand is an indication of progress, but it necessitates careful management of environmental pollution for maintaining a healthy life and ensuring a better planet for future generations. Heterostructure material-based catalysts have emerged as a comprehensive solution to combat the diverse challenges related to energy and environment. Herein, an n-n-type ZnO-ZnFe2O4 heterostructure was synthesized via a simple reflux followed by a co-precipitation technique for the same. Detailed photocatalytic and gas sensing studies revealed that a 50% ZnO-50% ZnFe2O4-based sample (ZZF-11) showed the highest Cr(VI) degradation with a rate constant of ∼159 × 10-4 s-1, which was ∼23 times higher than that of pristine ZnO and 6.4 times higher than that of pristine ZnFe2O4. Additionally, the ZZF-11 sample produced ∼550 μmol g-1 of H2 within a 300 minute interval via a photocatalytic water-splitting reaction. The ZZF-11 sensor also showed a significantly high response to 1 ppm CO gas (S = 29.4%) compared to all other pure and composite samples. The formation of the heterostructure and transfer of charges through the interface played an important role here. The most possible mechanism for the enhanced surface catalytic performance of ZZF-11 was critically analysed by corroborating the experimental results with DFT results. This study demonstrates a unified pathway to enhance the various surface catalytic processes by tuning different parameters of the heterostructure material to simultaneously overcome environment- and energy-related issues.

МИКРОСТРУКТУРНАЯ ИДЕНТИФИКАЦИЯ ТКАНЕВОГО СОСТАВА МЯСОПРОДУКТОВ

The purpose of the study is to identify the tissue composition of meat product samples using microstructural (histological) analysis, taking into account the technology of processing raw meat and the use of herbal food additives. The study was carried out on the basis of the histological laboratory of the Department of Anatomy, Pathological Anatomy and Surgery of the Institute of Applied Biotechnology and Veterinary Medicine of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education Krasnoyarsk State Agrarian University in 2023. The object of the study was meat products from various producers sold in the retail chain of Krasnoyarsk (samples № 1, № 2, № 3). For histological examination, samples were fixed in a 10 % solution of neutral formalin, followed by standard histological processing through alcohols of increasing concentrations and paraffins. Sections 5 µm thick were prepared on a microtome, which, after deparaffinization and clearing, were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and viewed under a Levenhuk microscope. It has been established that in samples № 1 and № 2 homogeneous (structureless) oxyphilic masses with a large number of vacuoles are determined, which indicates a significant impact of mechanical and thermal factors on raw meat. In sample № 1, additives of plant origin were identified – carrageenan and flour, used in the manufacture of meat products (sausages) as formative substances. Sample № 2 revealed a small amount of connective tissue and carbohydrate additives (starch and carrageenan), used in the production of meat products as moisture-retaining and structure-forming components. In sample № 3, skeletal muscle and connective tissue fibers and vegetable carbohydrate (starch, carrageenan) and protein additives (soy protein) were identified. Histological studies of samples of meat products show that in the process of their production, not only raw meat, but also carbohydrate and protein additives are used. The degree of impact on the original meat raw materials during the manufacturing process of meat products is reflected in the histological picture and varies in different samples.

Advancement of tribological properties of AA 5083 aluminum matrix composite through the incorporation of micro‐ and nano‐copper ferrite reinforcements synthesized from mulberry leaves (Morus alba L.) using a green synthesis method

AbstractThis study investigates the enhancement of wear and friction performance in an AA 5083 matrix composite by incorporating copper ferrite (CuFe2O4) micro and nanoparticles, synthesized through a green process using mulberry (Morus alba L.) leaf extract for the first time. Two distinct composites are fabricated using the liquid metallurgy vortex‐route method featuring an aluminum AA 5083 matrix and 0.2 % micro‐ and nano‐ copper ferrite reinforcement by weight. AA 5083 cast alloy under identical conditions. Characterization analyses were conducted to elucidate the composite properties. The composite samples are underwent wear tests against a steel disc under three different loads (10 N, 20 N, and 40 N) at two sliding distances (250 m and 500 m), maintaining a constant sliding speed of 2.6 m/s using a pin‐on‐disc wear test apparatus. The composites exhibited superior wear and friction performance compared to the unreinforced material. Overall, the nano‐copper ferrite reinforced material showcased, on average, 33 % and 52 % lower wear rates than the unreinforced material, and 27 % and 31 % lower wear rates than the micro‐copper ferrite reinforced material respectively.

Extraction of Grape Juice: Impact of Laboratory-Scale Pressing Methods on the Chemical Composition

The monitoring of grape maturity is essential for determining the ideal harvest time as well as for obtaining the expected characteristics of grape juice and, consequently, of wine. This study aimed to examine the impact of various laboratory-scale pressing methods on key chemical parameters (sugars, pH, and titratable acidity), as well as on phenolic-related indexes and antioxidant activity, in juices from Chardonnay (six grape samples) and Pinot blanc (two grape samples) across two vintages (2022 and 2023). The grape samples were characterized in terms of total and extractable flavonoids and extractability (%). Four different methods (manual pressing, vacuum pressing, small screw press, and juicer) were applied for producing grape juice. The results showed relevant differences in the extractability among the grape samples up to 64.1% and 43.8% for harvests 2022 and 2023, respectively. Comparable sugar content, pH, and titratable acidity were found in the juice samples independently from the method used. On the contrary, notable variability among the different pressing methods was revealed for phenolic-related indexes and antioxidant activity. The small screw press led to lower total phenol index values across grape batches compared to other methods, while the juice samples obtained with the juicer revealed a composition consistently differing in comparison to the other methods. Raman spectroscopy allowed to clearly classify the juice samples based on the pressing method. Good predictive models were obtained due to the composition of juice samples being clearly distinct among methods. This data suggests that an appropriate pressing method should be adopted for monitoring the grape ripening as well as for simulating the pressing under industrial scale.

Molecular composition of dissolved organic matter from young organic‐rich hydrothermal deep‐sea sediments

AbstractHydrothermal transformations of dissolved organic matter (DOM) are governed by temperature and sedimentary organic carbon content, resulting in the release of hydrothermal DOM containing bioavailable compounds fueling benthic microbes. However, the temperature‐dependent molecular changes in porewater DOM from organic‐rich hydrothermal sediments, and the extent to which these changes contribute to the marine recalcitrant DOM, remain largely unexplored. Here we investigated the DOM composition of hydrothermal porewater and bottom water samples from the Guaymas Basin, Gulf of California, where basaltic sill intrusions generate hydrothermal petroleum in organic‐rich sediments. Samples containing hydrothermal petroleum with in situ temperatures from 4°C to > 106°C were analyzed using Fourier‐transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry and parallel factor analysis of excitation‐emission matrices from fluorescent DOM (FDOM). We found that the porewater DOM composition was strongly influenced by temperature and petroleum dissolution, evidenced by the enrichment of hydrothermal DOM with highly unsaturated, oxygen‐depleted aromatic, sulfur‐containing molecular formulae and petroleum‐associated FDOM compared to a cold reference site. In bottom waters, hydrothermal DOM accounted for ~ 26% of the DOM molecular formulae, with 82% exhibiting hydrogen‐to‐carbon ratios < 1.5, indicating their recalcitrance. The remaining ~ 18% of the hydrothermal molecular formulae were aliphatic and saturated, representing the release of bioavailable DOM to the ocean. Our results show that hydrothermal sediments are a source of both bioavailable and recalcitrant DOM, releasing water‐soluble petroleum‐derived compounds to the deep ocean. Our study highlights the need for more quantitative research on the contribution of hydrothermal sediments to deep‐sea DOM cycling.

Chitosan-Bentonite composite adsorption of herbicide glyphosate from water solution.

This study highlights the use of Chitosan-Bentonite composites as an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional adsorbents, which are often expensive and less accessible. Chitosan-Bentonite composite (CBC) samples with various chitosan/bentonite ratios (2/1, 2/2, 2/4, 2/8, and 2/10) were developed to remove glyphosate, one of the most widely used herbicides globally, from contaminated aqueous solutions. The CBC samples were characterized using complementary techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses were performed. FTIR revealed OH vibrations at 3630cm⁻1 and -NH₂ and -NH₃⁺ at 1517cm⁻1, indicating electrostatic interactions between chitosan and bentonite. The NH₂ band at 1514cm⁻1 was absent in CBC 2/8 and CBC 2/10 due to low chitosan content. XRD analysis showed that the interaction between chitosan and bentonite significantly altered crystalline characteristics, reducing bentonite crystallinity and shifting reflection peaks, indicating effective chitosan intercalation. SEM images showed a non-porous lamellar structure for chitosan and reduced porosity in the composites, indicating exfoliation after interaction. The adsorption study revealed that the mass ratio influenced glyphosate adsorption capacity, with CBC 2/8 showing the best performance. Adsorption parameter analysis showed that the 2/8 Chitosan-Bentonite ratio, with an equilibrium adsorption capacity of 1.18mg/g, was the most effective for glyphosate removal. Optimal conditions were found at pH 3.76, using 50mg of CBC adsorbent, an initial glyphosate concentration of 10mg/L, and a contact time of 8h. Adsorption on the CBC 2/8 composite increased with concentration, reaching 2.8mg/g at equilibrium (Ce = 10.98mg/L). The S-type isotherm suggested that glyphosate is monofunctional with moderate intermolecular interactions. The Langmuir model indicated a maximum adsorption capacity (qm) of 133mg/g with moderate affinity (KL = 0.0018 L/mg). The Freundlich model, with an adsorption intensity coefficient (n) of 0.912, showed favorable adsorption, while low χ2 (0.450) and SSE (0.330) values indicated a slightly better fit to the data. Compared to costly synthetic materials, the CBC composite provides an economical and non-toxic option for wastewater decontamination, offering moderate but promising results for glyphosate removal. This study highlights the potential of chitosan-based composites to provide viable and sustainable solutions for managing agricultural pollutants.

In situ experimental investigation of fiber orientation kinetics and rheology of polymer composites in shear flow

In this study, we experimentally investigate the fiber orientation kinetics and rheology of fiber-filled polymer melts in shear flow. A novel setup is designed with custom-built bottom and top geometries that are mounted on a conventional rotational rheometer. Shear flow between parallel sliding plates is applied by vertical movement of the top geometry. The axial force measurement data of the rotational rheometer are used to determine the shear stress growth coefficient. The fiber orientation kinetics are measured in situ with this setup using small angle light scattering. We consider a non-Brownian experimental system with short glass fibers for the suspended phase (L/D=8–15) and different polyethylene based materials for the matrix phase. The fiber orientation kinetics are investigated as a function of fiber volume fraction (ϕ=1%, 5%, and 10%) and as a function of the shear rate (γ˙=0.03, 0.55, and 5s−1). Within the studied range, these parameters do not influence the fiber orientation kinetics, and a multiparticle model, based on Jeffery’s equation for single particles, can describe these kinetics. Our results show that, up to the concentrated regime (ϕ≈D/L), fiber-fiber interactions do not influence the fiber orientation in shear flow. Finally, we investigate the shear stress growth coefficient of these composites and demonstrate that a simple rheological model for fiber composites, which assumes a constant, isotropic orientation distribution of the fibers, is able to describe the shear stress growth coefficient of the short fiber composite samples.

Wide range dielectric behavior characterization of ternary composite (Re-BT-CaO)

This article's primary objective is to investigate a ternary composite's dielectric behavior using time domain spectroscopy (TDS). A heterogeneous mixture of barium titanate (BT) and calcium oxide (CaO) in an epoxy resin matrix (RE) with a predetermined volume fraction level (70%) makes up this type of material. The remaining components (BT and CaO) are variable in increments of 07.50% and complete one another in order to achieve the final percentage, which is 30%. The different composite samples are created using the aforementioned stoichiometric ratios at room temperature and below atmospheric pressure. These mixes are put through a dielectric behavior analysis over a broad frequency range, from DC to 10 GHz. This study intends to highlight the impact of calcium oxide and barium titanate on the composite's dielectric behavior and on the form factor provided by the modified Lichtenecker equation (MLL). It follows a numerical method for optimizing of the predictive model of this law based on a better smoothing of this shape factor in order to allow a better concordance among the predicted values and practical ones. A comparison between the experimental data and the MLL values is performed in order to highlight the proposed model performance on the ternary composite dielectric permittivity estimation quality. This research's focus is on how these materials are used in micro- and nanoelectronics as well as telecommunication components fabrication.

Aluminum–Silica Core–Shell Nanoparticles via Nonthermal Plasma Synthesis

Aluminum nanoparticles (Al NPs) are interesting for energetic and plasmonic applications due to their enhanced size-dependent properties. Passivating the surface of these particles is necessary to avoid forming a native oxide layer, which can degrade energetic and optical characteristics. This work utilized a radiofrequency (RF)-driven capacitively coupled argon/hydrogen plasma to form surface-modified Al NPs from aluminum trichloride (AlCl3) vapor and 5% silane in argon (dilute SiH4). Varying the power and dilute SiH4 flow rate in the afterglow of the plasma led to the formation of varying nanoparticle morphologies: Al–SiO2 core–shell, Si–Al2O3 core–shell, and Al–Si Janus particles. Scanning transmission electron microscopy with a high-angle annular dark-field detector (STEM-HAADF) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were employed for characterization. The surfaces of the nanoparticles and sample composition were characterized and found to be sensitive to changes in RF power input and dilute SiH4 flow rate. This work demonstrates a tunable range of Al–SiO2 core–shell nanoparticles where the Al-to-Si ratio could be varied by changing the plasma parameters. Thermal analysis measurements performed on plasma-synthesized Al, crystalline Si, and Al–SiO2 samples are compared to those from a commercially available 80 nm Al nanopowder. Core–shell particles exhibit an increase in oxidation temperature from 535 °C for Al to 585 °C for Al–SiO2. This all-gas-phase synthesis approach offers a simple preparation method to produce high-purity heterostructured Al NPs.

Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds in Textiles: Insights from GC–MS with Metal Content Assessment Using ICP-MS

This study primarily focuses on the analysis of volatile organic compounds using GC–MS, with ICP-MS employed as a complementary method to quantify trace metal content. Headspace GC–MS was conducted to detect alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEOs), formaldehyde, aromatic amines derived from azo dyes, perfluorinated carboxylic acids, chlorophenols (PCPs), tetrachlorophenols (TPCs), and phthalates in textile samples of different origin and composition. Principal component analysis was used to detect patterns in the volatilome according to the origin and the textile composition. In addition, seven metals (Cr, Ni, Cu, Mo, Cd, Hg, and Pb) were quantified in a subset of samples. The study revealed distinct chemical profiles in textiles based on their origin, with GC–MS identifying key volatile organic compounds and ICP-MS quantifying heavy metals in a subset of samples. Principal component analysis highlighted cotton content as a critical factor in differentiating textile profiles. While most samples adhered to regulatory standards, some exceeded thresholds for metals like copper and nickel, underscoring the need for enhanced quality control in manufacturing processes. By integrating advanced analytical methods, this study provides insights into sustainable and safe textile production, offering valuable benchmarks for regulatory compliance and industry best practices. The outcomes contribute to improving product safety, promoting responsible manufacturing, and supporting regulatory bodies in the enforcement of environmental and safety standards, aligning with the growing demand for sustainability in the textile sector.

Innovative Hygroscopic Material for Humidity Regulation: Diatomaceous Earth Composite Porous Ceramic

Urbanization in hot and humid regions such as southern China has increased the demand for comfortable indoor environments. In order to design a material for efficient passive indoor humidity regulation, this study investigates a composite material that combines the hygroscopic properties of salt and the adsorption capacity of diatomaceous earth (DE). Firstly, we prepared DE and boehmite into moisture-absorbing porous materials. Then, the initial DE-based sample was innovatively doped with SiO2 nanomaterials and loaded with LiCl to enhance the humidity regulation ability of the composite, especially in the adsorption and desorption ability of water vapour. The microstructure and phase composition of the composite samples were analysed, and we observed an increase in porosity, filling performance and capillary condensation upon the introduction of SiO2 nanoparticles. The hygroscopic salt loaded into the pores can absorb more water when exposed to the ambient humidity. This synergic effect can effectively improve the hygroscopic performance of the composite material while maintaining the stability of the physical and chemical properties. The optimized samples showed a moisture absorption rate of 28% in high-humidity environments, meeting moisture buffer value evaluation standards. The study’s findings lay the foundation for the future integration of these materials through advanced manufacturing technologies.

First report of Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens the causal agent of bacterial wilt disease in bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris) in The Netherlands.

Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens (Cff), a European quarantine organism, is the causal agent of bacterial wilt in several members of the Fabaceae family (Osdaghi et al., 2020). Recently, several Cff findings have been reported on the European continent (Tarakanov et al., 2022; EPPO 2022; EPPO 2024). In August 2024, following the Cff finding in an imported common bean seed lot, asymptomatic common bean plants were sampled from three fields in the Netherlands, ranging from approximately 0.5 to 4.8 ha in size, where the crop was cultivated for human consumption. Each sample consisted of 200 pieces of stem of 2-4 cm long. After short surface sterilization in 70% EtOH the pieces were crushed in a Stomacher bag and incubated in 50 mL 0.05 M phosphate buffer with 0.02% Tween 20 at 100 rpm at room temperature for 30 minutes. For bacteria isolation, 20 µL of the plant extract was plated onto YPG medium (5 g/L yeast extract, 10 g/L peptone, 5.5 g/L glucose, 15 g/L agar) and modified King's B medium (38 g/L Pseudomonas agar F, 10 g/L sucrose, 100 mg/L cycloheximide) by dilution plating. After incubation at 28 °C for 4 days, one typical colony (shiny, slimy, cream-colored) per sample was selected from the modified King's B medium for purification. For preliminary identification MALDI-TOF MS analysis was performed (Bruker, Germany) comparing the spectra of the three purified isolates with in-house made reference spectra of several C. flaccumfaciens (Cf) strains. The DNA of isolates that were identified as Cf was isolated by thermal lysis and used for identification at the pathovar level using the conventional PCR by Tegli et al. (2002). The genomes of these isolates, generated using Illumina sequencing (accession numbers JBKYKM000000000, JBKYKN000000000 and JBKYKO000000000) share between 96.0-97.3% average nucleotide identity (ANI) with the Cf type strain CFBP 3418 confirming they fall within the species boundary. Recently, yellow-pigmented Cf strains showed higher than 94 % ANI among themselves and with CFBP 3418 but below 94% ANI with members of the pink-/orange-/red-pigmented strains (Osdaghi et al., 2024). A pathogenicity test on Phaseolus vulgaris var. Ferrari plants, performed according to EPPO (2011), confirmed the virulence of these isolates. Per isolate, 7-8 out of 10 plants showed typical Cff symptoms at 7 dpi, including wilting and interveinal chlorotic areas in the leaves, similar to the positive control plants. Negative control plants remained asymptomatic. The isolates were successfully re-isolated from the inoculated plants and identified as Cff using the above mentioned methods. The diagnostic procedure followed justifies the classification of the three Cf isolates as Cff. This is the first confirmed report of Cff on common bean in the Netherlands. Eradication measures have been imposed on the fields from which plants tested positive, including destruction of the crop and crop remains, hygiene measures, and prohibition to cultivate Fabaceae for the coming two years. Following this, samples were taken from composite weed samples growing in the near vicinity of the infected fields. In one of these samples, the presence of Cff has been confirmed as well (accession nr JBKYKL000000000), following the same diagnostic procedure as for the common bean samples. No bean plants with Cff symptoms were observed in these three fields.

MARLOWE: An Untargeted Proteomics, Statistical Approach to Taxonomic Classification for Forensics.

General proteomics research for fundamental science typically addresses laboratory- or patient-derived samples of known origin and composition. However, in a few research areas, such as environmental proteomics, clinical identification of infectious organisms, archeology, art/cultural history, and forensics, attributing the origin of a protein-containing sample to the organisms that produced it is a central focus. A small number of groups have approached this problem and developed software tools for taxonomic characterization and/or identification using bottom-up proteomics. Most such tools identify peptides via database search, and many rely on organism-specific peptides as markers. Our group recently introduced MARLOWE, a software tool for taxonomic characterization of unknown samples based on de novo peptide identification and signal-erosion-resistant strong peptides, which are shared peptides distributed in a taxonomy-dependent manner. In the current work, we further characterize the utility of MARLOWE using publicly available proteomics data from forensically-relevant samples. MARLOWE characterizes samples based on their protein profile, and returns ranked organism lists of potential contributors and taxonomic scores based on shared strong peptides between organisms. Overall, the correct characterization rate ranges between 44 and 100%, depending on the sample type and data acquisition parameters (with lower numbers associated with lower-quality data sets). MARLOWE demonstrates successful characterization of true contributors and close relatives, and provides sufficient specificity to distinguish certain microbial species. MARLOWE demonstrates its ability to provide insight into potential taxonomic sources for a wide range of sample types without prior assumptions about sample contents. This approach can find utility in forensic science and also broadly in bioanalytical applications that utilize proteomics approaches for taxonomic characterization.

A novel methodology for assessing the hygroscopicity of aerosol filter samples

Abstract. Due to US regulations, concentrations of hygroscopic inorganic sulfate and nitrate have declined in recent years, leading to an increased importance of the hygroscopic nature of organic matter (OM). The hygroscopicity of OM is poorly characterized because only a fraction of the multitude of organic compounds in the atmosphere is readily measured, and there is limited information on their hygroscopic behaviors. Hygroscopicity of aerosol is traditionally measured using a humidified tandem differential mobility analyzer (HTDMA) or electrodynamic balance (EDB). EDB measures water uptake by a single particle. For ambient and chamber studies, HTDMA measurements provide water uptake and particle size information but not chemical composition. To fill this information gap, we developed a novel methodology to assess the water uptake by particles collected on Teflon filters. This method uses the same filter sample for both hygroscopicity measurements and chemical characterization, thereby providing an opportunity to link the measured hygroscopicity with ambient particle composition. To test the method, hygroscopic measurements were conducted in the laboratory for ammonium sulfate, sodium chloride, glucose, and malonic acid, which were collected on 25 mm Teflon filters using an aerosol generator and sampler. Constant-humidity solutions (CHSs), including potassium chloride, barium chloride dihydrate, and potassium sulfate, were employed in a saturated form to maintain the relative humidity (RH) at approximately 84 %, 90 %, and 97 % in small chambers. Our preliminary experiments revealed that, without the pouch, water uptake measurements were not feasible due to rapid water loss during weighing. Additionally, we observed some absorption by the aluminum pouch itself. To account for this, concurrent measurements were conducted for both the loaded and the blank filters at each RH level. Thus, the dry loaded and blank Teflon filters were placed in aluminum pouches with one side open and in RH-controlled chambers for more than 24 h. The wet loaded samples and wet blanks were then weighed using an ultramicrobalance to determine the water uptake by the respective compound and the blank Teflon filter. The net amount of water absorbed by each compound was calculated by subtracting the water uptake of the blank filter from that of the wet loaded filter. Hygroscopic parameters, including the water-to-solute (W / S) ratio, molality, mass fraction solute (mfs), and growth factors (GFs), were calculated from the measurements. The results obtained are consistent with those reported by the Extended Aerosol Inorganics Model (E-AIM) and previous studies utilizing HTDMA and EDB for these compounds, highlighting the accuracy of this new methodology. This new approach enables the hygroscopicity and chemical composition of individual filter samples to be assessed so that in complex mixtures, such as chamber and ambient samples, the total water uptake can be parsed between the inorganic and organic components of the aerosol.

Gut microbiome features associate with immune checkpoint inhibitor response in individuals with non-melanoma skin cancers: an exploratory study.

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has yielded revolutionary outcomes among some individuals with skin cancer, but a large percentage of individuals do not benefit from these treatments. The gut microbiota is hypothesized to impact ICI therapy outcomes. However, data on ICI therapy, gut microbiota, and non-melanoma skin cancers are limited. To examine the association of gut microbiota structure and function with non-melanoma skin cancer ICI outcomes, we performed 16S rRNA V1-V2 gene amplicon sequencing of 68 fecal samples collected longitudinally from individuals with basal cell carcinoma (n = 5), Merkel cell carcinoma (n = 5), or cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC, n = 11), followed by tumor-dependent differential analyses of bacterial composition and fecal sample analysis by untargeted metabolomics. Across all tumor types, we identified 10 differential bacterial genera between responders (R) or non-responders (NR) to ICI therapy. Among individuals with CSCC, we identified 10 genera and 20 species that differentiated between R and NR and yielded 8 pathways enriched in NR and 12 pathways enriched in R by predicted functional pathway analyses. Untargeted fecal metabolomics to examine putative gut microbiota metabolites associated with CSCC ICI R/NR identified nine KEGG pathways associated with ICI efficacy. In summary, this exploratory study suggests gut microbiota features that are associated with ICI efficacy in individuals with non-melanoma skin cancers and highlights the need for larger studies to validate the results.IMPORTANCEPrior studies examining associations between ICI efficacy and the gut microbiome have focused primarily on individuals with melanoma, for whom ICI therapy was first approved. Meanwhile, data regarding microbiome features associated with ICI responses in individuals with non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) have remained limited. This initial fecal microbiota examination of individuals with NMSCs suggests that larger-scale studies to extend and validate our findings may yield predictive or prognostic biomarkers for individuals with NMSC receiving ICI with potential to provide insight to complementary, effective therapeutic interventions through microbiota modification.

The Delumping Method as a Key Factor in obtaining a characterized Hydrocarbon Fluid using the Example of Kazakhstani Oil

The composition of hydrocarbon systems plays an essential role in ensuring reliability in field operation processes, the design of oil onshore facilities, and the availability of reliable information about the PVT properties of systems. In this article, experimental and numerical methods are used to obtain data on the component composition of the extracted oil products and their PVT properties. These methods help obtaining a detailed composition and phase state of the hydrocarbon system. The numerical delumping method is utilized in this article. It is worth noting that all calculations were made on the basis of data on the component composition of Kazakhstani oil samples. The results and comparative evaluation show that the proposed delumping mix-method has excellent consistency with the data obtained with experiments and with the Nichita’s analytical approach. In the future, the results on the detailed composition can improve and link the compositional modeling of the reservoir with the modeling of surface structures.

Prediction of ketosis using radial basis function neural network in dairy cattle farming.

The purpose of the paper was to apply an Artificial Neural Networks with Radial Basis Function to develop an application model for diagnosing a subclinical ketosis type I and II in dairy cattle. While building the neural network model, applied methodology was compatible to the procedures used in Data Mining processes.The data set was created based on the composition of milk samples of 1520 Polish Holstein-Friesian cows. The milk samples were collected during test-day milkings and made available by Polish Federation of Cattle Breeders and Milk Producers. The milk composition parameters were used as the input variables for RBF network models. The value of the output variable was determined based on the content of β-hydroxybutyric acid in blood of cows. In the next stage of the work, the qualities of the pre-selected models were compared and the best ones were chosen. The sensitivity and specificity as well as the size of the AUC (Area Under the Curve) under the ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) were taken as the main criteria for network models evaluation. The model characterized by sensitivity of 0.86, specificity of 0.71 and AUC of 0.89 was selected for ketosis type I. The optimal for ketosis type II showed the sensitivity and specificity 0.81 and 0.75, respectively, and the size of AUC above 0.85. Chosen models were recorded using the predictive modelling markup language (PMML) for data mining models to be shared and used between the different applications.

Farmers’ perceptions of Terminalia brownii management in agroforestry Parklands and its impact on soil physicochemical properties in the South Ari District, Southern Ethiopia

Smallholder farmers in the South Ari District of southern Ethiopia retain natural forest remnants of Terminalia brownii trees in their crop fields. However, little is known about their perceptions of its management in crop fields and its impacts on soil properties. Therefore, we investigated farmers’ perceptions and the impacts of scattered Terminalia brownii trees on soil physicochemical properties. For this purpose, we collected household survey data from 80 farmers and 54 composite soil samples from four directions at three radial distances and two soil depths. A randomized complete block design was used with three independent random field replications for the treatments within factorial arrangements, including the three radial distances and two soil depths. Based on the survey data, 90% of the respondents manage scattered Terminalia brownii trees in their crop fields. Among them, 63% use pollarding, while 49% use pruning techniques to enhance the impact on crops grown beneath trees. Our results revealed that soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, plant-available potassium and phosphorus, and bulk density were significantly higher (P < 0.05) under the tree canopy. However, soil texture, pH, electrical conductivity, cation exchange capacity, and exchangeable bases depicted no significant differences between the tree canopy and open fields. Hence, retaining Terminalia brownii trees on the crop field is crucial for farmers to improve the soil physicochemical properties. However, sustained long-term studies are essential to gain a comprehensive understanding of the diverse functions of Terminalia brownii and its impact on microclimate dynamics and crop productivity.

Ecological and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals and Organochlorine Pesticides in Water and Sediments from Otamiri River in Imo State, Nigeria

Ecological and health risk of selected heavy metals and Organochlorine pesticide residues (OCPs) were assessed in Water and Sediments from Otamiri River in Imo state, Nigeria. Water and sediment samples were collected during rainy and dry periods from three different points and mixed together to form a composite sample. Pesticide residues and heavy metals were analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and atomic absorption spectrophotometer respectively. The concentration of heavy metal during rainy and dry season ranged from ND to 1.56 mg/l and ND to 3.61 mg/l for water samples, 0.005 to 1.8 mg/kg, and 0.008 to 1.0 mg/kg for sediments respectively. The geo-accumulation index Igeo(x) of heavy metals on sediment ranged from 0 to 0.7 while the values of pollution index were greater than one, signifying heavy metal pollution status of the river. The ecological risk index showed that Nickel and Cadmium had moderate to considerable ecological risk ranging from 129.9-348. The OCP residues concentration ranged from ND to 6.35 mg/l and ND to 4.55 mg/l for water samples, ND to 3.22 mg/kg and ND to 3.5 mg/kg for sediments during rainy and dry season respectively, with predominance of BHCs, DDTs and heptachlor epoxide in water and sediment matrixes. The pesticide residues found in the present study were generally below the maximum residues limit (MRL) set by FAO/WHO bodies. Ecological risk using the Risk quotient was found to be (RQ ≥1) during both seasons and shows higher risks for β-HCH, endosulphan sulfate and p,p′-DDT. The non-carcinogenic risk hazard index (HI) values of both exposure routes were less than one. Conversely, the estimated carcinogenic risk by OCPs through ingestion exposure ranged from 8.142E−9 to 1.20E−7 and 6.36E-7 to 6.44E-4 while dermal range from 3.4E-11 to 2.14E-8 and 7.14E-7 to 8.6E-4 for adults and children respectively, showing considerable carcinogenic risk associated to p,p′-DDT, heptachlor epoxide, α- HCH and aldrin. There is need for regular monitoring of the river to ensure water quality sustainability due to environmental and health risk of the levels of heavy metals and OCPs.

Tailoring the crystallization, viscoelastic, and thermal degradation properties of polypropylene by nano‐tungsten carbide and multiwalled carbon nanotubes

AbstractThe study investigates the individual and collaborative effect of tungsten carbide (WC) and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the surface characteristics, viscoelastic, and thermal properties of polypropylene (PP). The uniform dispersion of dual nanofillers was observed from TEM analysis, and the surface topography was revealed using atomic force microscopy (AFM). From the dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), the hybrid sample (1 wt% WC and 2 wt% MWCNT) exhibited the highest storage modulus (75% increase at 20°C compared with PP) and was further verified by several theoretical models. The Cole‐Cole plot of the hybrid composite sample exhibited deviation from the semi‐circle geometry due to the effective mixing of nanofillers in the matrix. The sample also manifested the highest creep resistance and 67% reduction in critical creep rate compared to neat PP. XRD and DSC analysis revealed that P/1W/2C sample has more thermodynamically stable α crystals. The thermal analysis showed that rapid cooling resulted in the formation of imperfect and non‐uniform crystals. The hybrid sample showed impeccable thermal degradation resistance with the lowest weight loss rate and the highest activation energy (say at 10°C/min, Tmax: 472°C, Ea: 269 kJ/mol).Highlights Investigated the combined effect of WC and MWCNT bi‐nanofillers in the PP matrix. Explored the surface roughness of the composite by AFM. Evaluated the mechanical, and viscoelastic behavior of PP nanocomposite. Estimated Ea for thermal degradation of PP nanocomposites using different models. Demonstrated the effect of cooling rate on crystallization by DSC analysis.