Specific Composition Research Articles

Physicochemical Characteristics and Antioxidant Activity of Some Algerian Extra Virgin Olive Oils (Olea europaea L.)

Background:: The present work was conducted to investigate the quality and antioxidant properties of some Algerian extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs). Objective:: In this paper, the physicochemical characteristics and antioxidant properties of four EVOOs of monovarietal samples (Chemlal) from East Algeria were studied. Methods:: Physicochemical characteristics, which include free acidity, peroxide index, saponification index, specific extinction coefficients, water content, refractive index, relative density, and chemical composition, in addition to their antioxidant activity, were investigated based on DPPH free radical-scavenging activity (DPPH-SA). Results:: The results of physicochemical and quality parameters proved that all samples are EVOOs with highly nutritious and health benefits for the consumer, as per the recommendation of the International Olive Council (IOC). The results showed that the olive oils from the southern arid region of Algeria (Sahara), have a high antioxidant activity than the samples from the Northern regions. Conclusion:: These findings revealed a significant influence of geographic location on the chemical characteristics and antioxidant activities of olive oil from the same cultivar (Chemlal). These olive oils from the arid Saharan region may be used as a functional food with great antioxidant potential.

Mineralogical and Geochemical Features of Coals and Clay Layers of the Karaganda Coal Basin

A comprehensive assessment of the critical elements contained in coal is essential for understanding the geological processes that affect the enrichment of these elements, which can then be used to fully utilize coal in an economically and environmentally friendly manner. In order to understand the geology of an area and the impact of demolition rock on the formation and enrichment of trace elements, as well as rare earth elements (REE) in coals, we have presented a range of recent geochemical and mineralogical data from the k7 coal seam in the Karaganda Formation of the Karaganda Coal Basin. The study revealed that the geochemical characteristics of coal-bearing deposits in the Karaganda Basin reflect the features of its geological evolution. Despite high tectonic activity and volcanic activity in the Paleozoic era, the specific composition of the rocks on the slopes and bases of coal-bearing valleys has determined the low potential for rare metals in the basin. It has been found that the coal in the Karaganda Basin is, in general, similar in terms of concentrations of most trace elements to the average for world coal. The main area of provenance of the trace elements was established using discriminant diagrams. It was established that the main source of the trace elements, including REEs in the basin coals, was the Tekturmas accretionary complex that represented the main upland (anticlinorium) during the coals’ formation. SEM studies identified micro-mineral forms that indicated the presence of trace elements of Zr, Ti, Se, and Fe in the samples of stratum k7.

Review on Seashell Ash as Partial Cement Replacement

The review paper focuses on utilizing various sea shell ashes, including cockle, clam, oyster, mollusc, periwinkle, snail, and green mussel shell ash, as partial replacements for cement. It aims to promote environmental sustainability and mitigate the issues associated with global warming. Cement production is known to have significant environmental impacts across all stages, including air pollution through dust and gases, as well as noise and vibration during quarrying and milling processes. One proposed solution is the adoption of modified cement, which refers to cementitious materials designed to match or surpass the performance of Portland cement while incorporating recycled and waste materials, thereby reducing the demand for raw materials and promoting sustainability in construction. Utilizing sea shell ash as a partial replacement for cement in concrete has the potential to yield substantial energy savings and offer significant environmental advantages. Previous investigations have explored the chemical and mechanical properties of concrete produced with sea shell ash replacements, including specific gravity, chemical composition, compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength. The results indicate that the optimal replacement percentage for sea shell ash in cement lies within the range of 4–5%.

Morphology and chemical composition of Taiwan oil millet (Eccoilopus formosanus) epicuticular wax.

Taiwan oil millet has two types of epicuticular wax: platelet wax composed primarily of octacosanol and filament wax constituted essentially by the singular compound of octacosanoic acid. Taiwan oil millet (TOM-Eccoilopus formosanus) is an orphan crop cultivated by the Taiwan indigenous people. It has conspicuous white powder covering its leaf sheath indicating abundant epicuticular waxes, that may contribute to its resilience. Here, we characterized the epicuticular wax secretion in TOM leaf blade and leaf sheath using various microscopy techniques, as well as gas chromatography to determine its composition. Two kinds of waxes, platelet and filaments, were secreted in both the leaf blades and sheaths. The platelet wax is secreted ubiquitously by epidermal cells, whereas the filament wax is secreted by a specific cell called epidermal cork cells. The newly developed filament waxes were markedly re-synthesized by the epidermal cork cells through papillae protrusions on the external periclinal cell wall. Ultrastructural images of cork cell revealed the presence of cortical endoplasmic reticulum (ER) tubules along the periphery of plasma membrane (PM) and ER-PM contact sites (EPCS). The predominant wax component was a C28 primary alcohol in leaf blade, and a C28 free fatty acid in the leaf sheath, pseudopetiole and midrib. The wax morphology present in distinct plant organs corresponds to the specific chemical composition: platelet wax composed of alcohols exists mainly in the leaf blade, whereas filament wax constituted mainly by the singular compound C28 free fatty acids is present abundantly in leaf sheath. Our study clarifies the filament wax composition in relation to a previous study in sorghum. Both platelet and filament waxes comprise a protection barrier for TOM.

Hybrid anionic block copolymerization: From organocatalysis‐streamlined crossover to internally microphase‐separated aggregates

AbstractPolyolefin‐b‐poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) represents the most widely investigated amphiphilic block copolymers. So far, one‐pot continuous synthesis of such hybrid block copolymers has only been fulfilled by anionic polymerization through sequential addition of vinyl monomers and ethylene oxide (EO). It still remains challenging to achieve altogether high block efficiency, high polymerization efficiency, and high molar mass for PEO. Here, we report a one‐pot hybrid block copolymerization approach to polyisoprene/polystyrene(PI/PS)‐b‐PEO, in which PI/PS are formed by sBuLi‐initiated anionic vinyl‐addition polymerization, then in situ employed as macroinitiators for the anionic ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of EO aided by an organic Lewis pair. The cooperative (dual‐ion‐complexing) catalytic effect of organobase and triethylborane is proven, for the first time, effective for lithium alkoxide initiator system, allowing to achieve at room temperature high ROP activity (complete EO conversion and PEO of 3–64 kg/mol reached in 1–6 h), narrow molar mass distribution, controlled block lengths and composition. Density functional theory calculation shows that phosphazene bases are particularly effective, compared with N‐heterocyclic bases, for complexing with Li+ and enhancing the nucleophilicity of oxyanion. The rate of ROP is also affected by Li+‐induced aggregation of the chain‐end ion pairs, which though can be offset by adequate catalyst loadings. The versatility of this approach is further demonstrated in the one‐pot synthesis of tri‐/tetrablock ter‐/quaterpolymers constituted by PI, PS, PEO, and poly(propylene oxide). Of great interest, PS‐b‐PI‐b‐PEO triblock terpolymer with a specific composition is found to form internally microphase‐separated micellar aggregates when dispersed in water.

Nutritional Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Insights into Diet and Nutrition Strategies

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the primary endocrine disorder whose cause remains unidentified but is widely prevalent. This intricate condition affects a significant portion of women of reproductive age, affecting approximately 17.8% of them. While dietary approaches have been explored as the initial method of treatment for individuals with PCOS, there is no definitive consensus on the most effective diet. There is limited evidence to recommend a specific diet composition for PCOS with approaches including modifying protein, carbohydrate or fat quality or quantity generally having similar effects on the presentations of PCOS. It is crucial to recognize that maintaining a proper diet and ensuring sufficient nutritional status are pivotal factors in preventing the development of PCOS. In this comprehensive review, we explored various aspects of PCOS, ranging from its molecular pathogenesis to therapeutic dietary innovations and specific therapeutic interventions. Understanding the molecular pathogenesis of PCOS is vital, and we delve into the intricate mechanisms involved in its development. We examined the interplay between PCOS and metabolic conditions, such as insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, highlighting the interconnectedness of these aspects and their impact on the clinical presentation and management of the syndrome. While the optimal diet remains a subject of ongoing research, we emphasize on the critical role of proper diet and its potential in the avoidance and management of PCOS. Additionally, we reviewed specific dietary components, such as curcumin and green tea, and their potential therapeutic benefits in PCOS management.

Temperature and pressure dependent tunable GaAsSb/InGaAs QW heterostructure for application in IR-photodetector

A temperature and pressure dependent tunable type-II DQW (double quantum well) heterostructure with the specific composition and combination of In0.1Ga0.9As, In0.55Ga0.45As and GaAs0.15Sb0.85 layers have been designed and analyzed for the purpose of designing the QW infrared photodetector. Using k.p. theory, the optical response for the optimized heterostructure is investigated as optical absorption. The electronic and hole wavefunctions, as well as the conduction and valence band E-K curves, are computed and examined using the k.p. technique. Furthermore, the dipole matrix elements are also computed in order to comprehend the optical absorption-causing transition process. The partial and total optical absorption are computed in the X- and Y-polarization modes for the proposed QW heterostructure. The maximal optical absorption was found to meet at two wavelengths, around 2700 and 3600 nm, under the X-polarization mode. The absorption peak is stronger and significantly greater at 2700 nm than it is at about 3600 nm. The maximal absorption in the Y-polarization mode meets between about 2550 and 3350 nm. To examine the tunability, the optical absorption spectra have also been studied with variable temperature (rang: 273K–350K) and pressure (range: 0–12 GPa). With increasing temperature and pressure, the absorption peaks have been found to enhance pointedly. It may be argued that the suggested QW heterostructure may be appropriate for developing QW photodetectors to detect radiation in the shortwave infrared (SWIR) area based on the findings of the simulations.

Synthesis and characterization of Fe2SiO4/Fe2O3/g-C3N4 ternary heterojunction photocatalyst with enhanced photocatalytic activity under visible light

Ultrasonic-assisted co-precipitation is used for the first time to prepare Z-scheme Fe2SiO4/Fe2O3/g-C3N4 ternary heterojunction photocatalysts. Their morphology, crystal structure, specific surface area, optical properties, composition, and photocatalytic behavior have been thoroughly examined. When compared to single-component and binary Fe2SiO4/Fe2O3 heterojunction photocatalysts, ternary Fe2SiO4/Fe2O3/g-C3N4 heterojunction photocatalysts exhibit the most profitable performance for degradation of erythrosine under simulated light. It is likely that this is due to the high rate of separation migration of photoexcited charge carriers, the formation of Z-scheme heterojunction, and the specific surface area. Based on the results of active species trapping experiments, a possible Z-scheme mechanism could explain the significantly reduced photocatalytic rate of ternary heterojunction photocatalysts. It has been demonstrated that superoxide radicals play a significant role in the photodegradation process. A kinetic analysis revealed that the higher efficiency (97.9%) was associated with a higher rate constant (k = 0.0345 min‒1). A Fe2SiO4/Fe2O3/g-C3N4 nanocomposite is an excellent choice for large-scale applications because of its exceptional stability and recyclability.

Concept of «Mystery» and its Realization in the Works of J. Lippard and N. Buntline

Introduction. The article is devoted to the analysis of the linguistic means expressing the concept of «mystery» in the fictional works of J. Lippard and N. Buntline, the allocation of its socio-cultural component and the field model construction of lexical units representing this concept. The relevance of the research is due to the interest of modern linguistics in the study of the conceptual sphere of artistic works of the «urban mysteries» genre by American authors.Methodology and sources. The study was conducted within the framework of a linguistic and cultural approach using methods of description, comparison, interpretative analysis, conceptual analysis, the method of dictionary definitions analyzing, structural and semantic analysis, and the method of quantitative calculations. The illustrative material of the study consisted of more than 74 lexical units representing the «mystery» concept in the language, 45 of which were found in the analyzed works. The material was obtained by the method of directed sampling from the fictional works of American authors of the 19th century.Results and discussion. This article discusses and analyzes various interpretations of the concept of «mystery» by domestic and foreign scientists; defines the role of the concept in the work of fiction as a whole and in the analyzed novels of two authors J. lippard and N. Buntline; identifies the features of the linguistic implementation of the «mystery» concept; classifies the linguistic units of the concept according to their parts of speech, semantics and stylistic coloring; analyzes the writers’ linguistic pictures of the world and the conceptual sphere of their works, the illustrative zone of which reveals the reasons for the similarity not only of the storylines of the works, but also of their lexical content.Conclusion. The study made it possible to describe and illustrate the individual style of American authors of the 19th century through a system of expressive means that correlates the inner world of the writer with the artistic reality, the artistic world of the text created by the «poetic» language. The mental world can be interpreted in cognitive terminology as an individual poetic conceptual sphere, or the conceptual system of the author, consisting of a conceptual, objective, associative, figurative and symbolic layer of the concept. The study showed that the learning of the writer's linguistic picture of the world and the conceptual sphere of the work can be carried out using a field model, analyzing the LSF forming the «mystery» concept. The analyzed LSF is distinguished by a more specific vocabulary composition, the complication of the seme structure of words, the seme expansion and the restructuring of their hierarchy, which together form the artistic worldview of the authors.

In Situ Exfoliation Growth Strategy Realizing Controlled Synthesis of 3D to 2D MOF Materials as High-Performance Electrochemical Biosensors.

Two-dimensional (2D) metal-organic framework (MOF) nanosheets with large surface area, ultrathin thickness, and highly accessible active sites have attracted great research attention. Developing efficient approaches to realize the controllable synthesis of well-defined 2D MOFs with a specific composition and morphology is critical. However, it is still a significant challenge to construct thin and uniform 2D MOF nanosheets and resolve the reagglomeration as well as poor stability of target 2D MOF products. Here, an "in situ exfoliation growth" strategy is proposed, where a one-step synthetic process can realize the successful fabrication of PBA/MIL-53(NiFe)/NF nanosheets on the surface of nickel foam (NF) via in situ conversion and exfoliation growth strategies. The PBA/MIL-53(NiFe)/NF nanosheets combine the individual advantages of MOFs, Prussian blue analogues (PBAs), and 2D materials. As expected, the resulting PBA/MIL-53(NiFe)/NF as a glucose electrode exhibits an extremely high sensitivity of 25.74 mA mM-1 cm-2 in a very wide concentration range of 180 nM to 4.8 μM. The present exciting work provides a simple and effective strategy for the construction of high-performance nonenzymatic glucose electrochemical biosensors.

Tailoring of nanocrystals Bi2WO6 glass ceramics decorated with Sm3+ and Eu3+ ions for improving photocatalytic activity

For the first time in glass ceramics, pure Bi2WO6 nanocrystals were synthesized. This was achieved by preparing glass samples have a specific composition of SiO2-B2O3-NaF-WO3-SeO2-Na2O-Bi2O3 with 0.05 mol.% (Sm3+ or/and Eu3+) via melt-quenching technique. Then through a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) study, the controlled heat treatment process for the glass samples was determined at 500°C/2hrs to obtain their glass-ceramic counterparts. Doping by Sm3+ or/and Eu3+ decreased the glass transition temperature (Tg) from 467, 426, 350 to 344° C and the crystallization temperature from 535, 508, 481 to 433° C for the samples in the order of W, WSm, WEu, and WSE, respectively. Vibrational modes associated with SiO4, BO4 and BO3 units were confirmed by FTIR measurements. RE-doped glass showed characteristic visible - NIR absorption peaks due to the respective rare earth ions. Orthorhombic Bi2WO6 nanocrystals were obtained in glass ceramic samples, except WSE sample exhibited crystallization of Bi2WO6 as a major phase beside traces of Bi2O3, as shown by X-rays. Bi2WO6 crystallized in 2D sheet-like nanocrystals measuring less than 10 nm in size based on SEM and TEM studies. XPS analysis confirmed the triple valence of Eu3+ and Sm3+ ions into Bi2WO6. Photoluminescence measurements revealed distinct emission peaks from Sm and Eu ions in both glass and glass-ceramic samples, ranging from red to white light. Using UV–vis DRS, the optical band gap energy (Eopt) was estimated for glass-ceramic samples, showing values within the semiconductor range (∼2.8 eV). Photocatalytic activity was evaluated by degradation of methylene blue (MB) under UV and natural sunlight. All studied glass ceramics showed high photocatalytic efficiency. Remarkably, doping with Eu3+ significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity, exceeding 85% after 1 hour under UV or sunlight irradiation, followed by Sm3+ doping, and then doping with both Eu3++ Sm3+. Based on the obtained results, the studied samples are potentially useful as visible light photocatalysts, semiconductors, and photoluminescent glass ceramics.

Oral stereotypic behaviors in farm animals and their causes

AbstractHigh stocking density and suboptimal conditions limit animal behaviors in modern livestock farming. This is particularly evident in captive animals, in which the motivation for foraging behavior is often thwarted. Oral stereotypic behaviors are common in farm animals. Ruminants (e.g., cattle and sheep) show oral stereotypic behaviors such as tongue‐rolling, self‐sucking, and inter‐sucking. Captive pigs exhibit oral stereotypic behaviors such as bar‐biting, sham‐chewing, and ear‐biting. Chickens peck at drinkers, feeders, and pens. Stereotypic behavior in livestock can be reduced by selecting a specific diet composition that prolongs their eating time and increases their satiety. Furthermore, reducing stocking density and enriching the farming environment encourage livestock to explore and reduce stereotypic behavior. It is important to note that stereotypic behavior is also influenced by organismal physiology. Stereotypic behavior was considered an indicator of poor animal welfare. However, recent research has revealed that animals engage in stereotypic behavior as a response to external stimuli, aiming to alleviate the negative impact of these stimuli on their well‐being. Animals that frequently show stereotypic behavior may have higher levels of stress. Certain stress indicators also affect the expression of stereotypic behavior, such as 5‐hydroxytryptamine and dopamine. Consequently, further investigation is necessary to understand how stereotypic behaviors affect the physiological state and metabolic processes of animals. This paper discusses the research progress on the oral stereotypic behaviors of farm animals. The objective is to establish a foundation for enhancing livestock feeding conditions and optimizing feeding practices, ultimately reducing stereotypic behaviors.

Artificial insemination of all ejaculated sperm fractions accelerates embryo development and increases the uterine vascularity in the pig

The semen of boar is characterized by ejaculation in well-differentiated fractions with specific concentration, composition, and volume. The ‘sperm-rich fraction' (SRF), the most concentrated seminal fraction, is habitually collected in insemination centers to make artificial insemination (AI) doses. The absence of the other fractions in AI doses could alter the uterine reaction to AI and not trigger essential responses that could maximize fertility. Thus, there is an urge to ascertain the impact of different ejaculate fractions on the uterus after AI to optimize the semen doses. This work analyzed specific parameters related to fertility in pregnant artificially inseminated sows (n = 15) with ac-cumulative fractions of the semen of boars (n = 6): F1, composed of the sperm-rich fraction (SRF); F2, composed of F1 plus the intermediate fraction; F3, composed of F2 plus the post-SRF. Non-inseminated sows (n = 5) were included as control (C). The different types of seminal dose did not affect the number of ovulated follicles (CL; corpora lutea, p > 0.05) but did affect the embryo development (p < 0.05). The proportion of embryos in morula stages was significantly higher in AI-F1 sows (84.4%, p < 0.05). Morulas and blastocysts were balanced in AI-F2 or AI-F3 (p > 0.05). Independently of the type of seminal dose (F1, F2, or F3), we observed by immunohistochemistry that AI significantly increased uterine vascularization, although with some anatomical differences. The cranial region of the uterine horns was significantly more vascularized in AI-F1 or AI-F2 sows (26.7 ± 2.3 and 28.6 ± 2.0%, respectively), and AI-F3 showed significantly less vascularization at that point (17.8 ± 1.6%, p < 0.05). To summarize, the synergistic effect of all ejaculate fractions accelerates embryo development, at least during the preimplantation period, and increases the uterine reaction to AI in certain parts of the uterus.

Experimental determination of the surface rate constants of protium and deuterium in Eurofer97

The EUROFER reduced activation ferritic-martensitic (RAFM) steel is meant to be a firm candidate as structural material to be part of future fusion reactors. The correct definition of the transport parameters of hydrogen isotopes in these materials turns out to be a key issue in this field, as long as it can affect the operation of the reactor itself when quantifying the fuel inventory as well as the radiological safety of the whole facility.Traditionally the diffusion limited regime (DLR) of these kind of RAFM steels has been experimentally tested and values for the permeability and diffusivity have been published, showing some differences depending on the specific composition of the steel, the thermal treatment during the manufacturing processes, etc. However, these RAFM steels will have to operate also under conditions of pressure and temperature that will lead to surface limited regimes (SLR). In this case, there is much less information available and data for the adsorption and recombination constants is not so extensive.This work shows the results for a new set of experimental permeation measurements carried out within the EUROfusion program in order to determine the SLR. The surface rate constants of protium and deuterium were experimentally obtained for Eurofer97-3 at two different facilities (PermRIG at UPV/EHU and Thermoperm at CIEMAT), with consistent results that show a good agreement.

Dental health status of the medieval silver-mining community from Kutná Hora (Czech Republic, 13th–16th c.): Impact of socioeconomic changes and mortality crises

ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to evaluate the pathological conditions in teeth from skeletal remains found in the medieval burial ground at Kutná Hora (13th–16th centuries, Czech Republic). We focused on the effect on dental health of socioeconomic changes associated with the boom in silver mining at the site. DesignIn this study, dental caries and antemortem tooth loss were recorded for 469 sexed adults (10,558 permanent teeth). Pathologies were analysed and presented by teeth and alveoli, and the differences between their frequencies were tested in sex-, age-, and burial context-separated groups (mass vs. individual graves). ResultsThe oral conditions were characterised by a low frequency of caries and moderate frequency of antemortem tooth loss (AMTL). For caries, males and females showed the same frequencies while AMTL comparisons indicated a higher rate in females. Most differences emerged between age-separated and burial context-separated groups. The age progression of the pathologies was confirmed for both caries and AMTL. Skeletons from mass burials had higher caries and AMTL frequencies than those buried in individual graves. ConclusionsThe dataset exhibited low caries and below average AMTL rates compared to other medieval European skeletal series. We think that life in this mining centre had a positive effect on the dental health of its inhabitants. The relatively poorer dental health of those buried in mass graves reflected either the specific composition of the population in the first half of the 14th century or the lower resilience of these individuals when facing mortality crises.

Spatial distribution of bioeconomy R&D funding: opportunities for rural and lagging regions?

ABSTRACT The promotion of R&D carries the risk that economically strong regions will benefit to a greater extent and that regional disparities will increase by focusing the economy on high technology. However, this is expected to depend on the specific sectoral and technological composition of R&D funding. R&D funding for a bio-based economy in Germany is particularly illustrative for a shift in funding focus from a narrow concept of biotechnology to a broader concept of bioeconomy. Along with this shift, an impact on the spatial distribution of R&D funding is assumed. Against the background of inclusive innovation policy, this study examines the potential of the bioeconomy for a reduction of regional disparities in public R&D funding. Based on a database containing publicly-funded R&D projects in Germany and further regional data, comparative regressions are conducted in order to identify spatial patterns. The results demonstrate distinct funding mechanisms in the different areas of the bioeconomy. The broadening of R&D funding for bio-based activities from the biotechnology vision towards bioresources and bioecology leads to a greater participation of rural and lagging regions which is expected to be the result of the inclusion of more traditional industries as recipients of R&D funding.

Prediction of Phase Composition and Process Resilience in Plasma‐Assisted Hetero‐Aggregate Synthesis using a Machine‐Learning Model with Multivariate Output

AbstractThe synthesis of nanoscale particles and particle aggregates from liquid or gaseous precursors is affected by a variety of trade‐off relations, for example, in terms of product composition, yield, or energy efficiency. Machine‐supported process evaluation and learning (ML) of these relations enables optimization strategies for advanced material processing. Such a workflow is demonstrated on the example of plasma‐assisted aerosol deposition (PAAD) of alumina powders. Depending on processing conditions, these powders comprise of hetero‐aggregate mixtures of crystalline and amorphous polymorphs. Process optimization toward a specific target composition calls for ML approaches. For this, a sufficiently large and consistent dataset of PAAD input (processing) and output (product) parameters is initially generated by real‐world processing, and subsequently extrapolated into a cloud of ≈106 input‐output parameter matrices using Gaussian process regression with multivariate output and input‐output feature analysis. It is subsequently demonstrated how not only the phase composition of the obtained alumina powders, but also product resilience to variations in specific processing parameters, or – as a perspective – the energy efficiency of material processing can be predicted.

Mechanical Recycling of Post-Industrial PC/ABS Blends from the Automotive Sector by Mixture Design

The widespread use of plastic materials poses significant environmental challenges, which have promoted a growing call for a circular approach to such materials, emphasizing waste reintegration into production. From this perspective, the present study focuses on analyzing a post-industrial recycled stream of chrome-plated automotive scraps composed of acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), and a commercial PC/ABS blend. The batch-to-batch varying proportions of these constituents make control of the recycled materials’ quality challenging. To address this problem, we formulated an I-optimal mixture design model using the infrared absorbance ratio of selected peaks and Izod impact resistance results for injection-molded samples as inputs to determine the composition of each batch quickly. The two model equations (adjusted R2 &gt; 0.97) obtained, based on cubic expression and regressed from data obtained from 27 mixtures with known compositions, were combined into a single system for the determination of unknown batch compositions. The validation test showed that the models can satisfactorily predict both the infrared and Izod results of blends with known compositions, but in the latter case, the results are less reliable, probably due to specific blend morphological interactions according to specific compositions. The results can improve mechanical recycling methodologies for reintroducing plastic wastes to the market.

Leaching characteristics of metals and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) from asphalt paving materials

Asphalt pavement, a major type of road surface, may contain hazardous elements depending on its specific composition. A growing concern has developed regarding the potential leaching of these hazardous constituents from asphalt pavements, particularly when incorporating waste materials and additives. This study investigates the presence of heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in leachates from six commonly employed asphalt paving materials. A comprehensive laboratory leaching experiment was conducted on three key sample scales: asphalt binder, asphalt mortar, and asphalt mixture. The impact of the leachates was assessed by the heavy metal pollution index and the toxic equivalency factor based on the benzo[a]pyrene equivalent concentration. The results reveal that leaching tests at the binder and mortar scales provided fundamental insights into leaching characteristics within a relatively short timeframe, while the mixture-scale test was more capable of representing pollutant leaching in near-true scenarios. In addition, the results indicate potential adverse health implications associated with the incorporation of hazardous waste, such as bottom ash, into asphalt pavement. These findings hold significant implications for promoting environmentally responsible practices of asphalt pavement.

Diverging cell wall strategies for drought adaptation in two maize inbreds with contrasting lodging resistance.

The plant cell wall is a plastic structure of variable composition that constitutes the first line of defence against environmental challenges. Lodging and drought are two stressful conditions that severely impact maize yield. In a previous work, we characterised the cell walls of two maize inbreds, EA2024 (susceptible) and B73 (resistant) to stalk lodging. Here, we show that drought induces distinct phenotypical, physiological, cell wall, and transcriptional changes in the two inbreds, with B73 exhibiting lower tolerance to this stress than EA2024. In control conditions, EA2024 stalks had higher levels of cellulose, uronic acids and p-coumarate than B73. However, upon drought EA2024 displayed increased levels of arabinose-enriched polymers, such as pectin-arabinans and arabinogalactan proteins, and a decreased lignin content. By contrast, B73 displayed a deeper rearrangement of cell walls upon drought, including modifications in lignin composition (increased S subunits and S/G ratio; decreased H subunits) and an increase of uronic acids. Drought induced more substantial changes in gene expression in B73 compared to EA2024, particularly in cell wall-related genes, that were modulated in an inbred-specific manner. Transcription factor enrichment assays unveiled inbred-specific regulatory networks coordinating cell wall genes expression. Altogether, these findings reveal that B73 and EA2024 inbreds, with opposite stalk-lodging phenotypes, undertake different cell wall modification strategies in response to drought. We propose that the specific cell wall composition conferring lodging resistance to B73, compromises its cell wall plasticity, and renders this inbred more susceptible to drought.