Preparation Techniques Research Articles

Preparation techniques for the mosquitoes and the blackflies (Diptera: Culicidae: Simuliidae)

Preparation techniques are given for making permanent or nonpermanent microscope slides of the mosquitoes and the blackflies (Diptera: Culicidae: Simuliidae). We mention here only those that we have personally found to be most satisfactory in the order to further study the morphology of dipterans. These techniques are required for a detailed examination of the diagnostic characters of mosquitoes and blackflies, as a result, to correctly identify the specimens. First, the general stages of processing specimens are considered, then the specifics for making permanent or nonpermanent microscope slides are given (in glycerin, Canadian balsam and euparal). Preparation techniques of larvae and adults (males and females) of mosquitoes and blackflies, as well as blackfly pupae, are discussed in detail, because these processes differ in each group and in each stage of the life cycle. Moreover, we give the technique for damaged material (i.e., as a result of loss of fixing fluid). For the first time, the description of diagnostic characters that are lost during the preparation is considered in detail. We have specified the structures of blackfly larvae, pupae and adults, whose characters must be described before making permanent microscope slides. We consider that some structures (i.e., the male genitalia of fam. Culicidae and Simuliidae) should be pre-examined on nonpermanent microscope slides, and then permanent slides can be made.

Silica-embedded Gold Nanoparticles Analyzed by Atom Probe Tomography.

Nanoparticles are utilized in a multitude of applications due to their unique properties. Consequently, characterization of nanoparticles is crucial, and various methods have been employed in these pursuits. One such method is Atom Probe Tomography (APT). However, existing sample preparation techniques for APT generally involve embedding of the nanoparticles in a matrix different from their environment in solutions or at solid-liquid interfaces. In this work, we demonstrate a methodology based on silica embedding and explore how it can be utilized to form a matrix for nanoparticles suitable for APT analysis. Through chemisorption to a surface, gold nanoparticles were densely packed, ensuring a high probability of encountering at least one particle in the APT analyses. The nanoparticle-covered surface was embedded in a silica film, replacing the water and thus making this method suitable for studying nanoparticles in their hydrated state. The nanoparticle's silver content and its distribution, originating from the nanoparticle synthesis, could be identified in the APT analysis. Sodium clusters, possibly originating from the sodium citrate used to stabilize the particles in solution, were observed on the nanoparticle surfaces. This indicates the potential for silica embedding to be used for studying ligands on nanoparticles in their hydrated state.

Developing techniques for crystal growth synthesis and characterization of rare earth-silicon-germanium magnetoresponsive alloys

A crystal growth technique was developed for the family of intermetallic, magnetoresponsive RE5(Si1-xGex)4 alloys in order to access the intrinsic and anisotropic properties. Initial bulk properties measured on polycrystalline samples alluded to the properties being obscured or averaged and high-quality, well-characterized, single crystals would clarify this. Successful crystal growth led to development of oriented sample preparation techniques specific for the crystal structures (monoclinic and orthorhombic) and mechanical properties (hard and brittle) of these alloys, and customized for the various measurement techniques undertaken. Here we describe our journey, sometimes circuitous, from crystal growth to sample preparation and cite the scientific discoveries that came about as a result.

On-line temperature-responsive restricted access material of sample preparation technique coupling with liquid chromatography for detection of tetracycline residues in milk

Effort of sample preparation has been working towards the automation and improvement of accuracy. Development of on-line sample preparation coupled with liquid chromatography (LC) is a promising way. In this study, an on-line extraction-LC automated analysis was proposed based on a temperature-sensitive restricted access material (RAM) for the determination of tetracycline residues (TCs) in milk. The RAM was synthesized using silica as substrate by the two-step surface initiated-atom transfer polymerization (SI-ATRP), styrene (St), sodium 4-vinylbenzenesulfonate (Nass) and a lower critical solution temperature (LCST)-responsive n-vinylcaprolactam (VCl) were conjugated to fabricate multiple interaction-adsorption sites of P(St-co-Nass-co-VCl) on silica interior, while an upper critical solution temperature (UCST)-responsive sulfobetaine methacrylate (SBMA) was then block polymerized to form zwitterionic exclusion sites on exterior. Thereafter, the RAM was packed as extraction column to be fixed into LC ahead of C18 analytical column, establishing automatic analysis by rotation of switching valve. In conjunction with LCST and UCST dual-responsive properties to adjust the hydrophobic-hydrophilic transition of the grafted P(St-co-Nass-co-VCl)-b-PSBMA chains, the RAM column acquires the best extraction of TCs and meanwhile the furthest removal of proteins at about 30 ℃ of column temperature. And using the proposed automatic analysis for monitoring of TCs in milk, a wide linearity (20–900 ng mL−1), low limit of detection (1.0 ng mL−1) and limit of quantification (2.5 ng mL−1) as well as good inter-day (<3.9 % RSD) and intra-day precision (<4.8 % RSD) with satisfactory recoveries (97.2–101.9 %) show the superior efficiency. It is believed that the introduction of temperature-sensitive RAM to construct on-line extraction is a powerful tool for detecting trace substances in scientific analyses.

Exploring a novel approach for the synthesis of MIL-53(Fe)/reduced graphene oxide composites with preserved structural integrity for high performance for electromagnetic wave shielding

Efficient electromagnetic waves absorbing materials while preserving structural integrity based on MIL-53(Fe)/reduced graphene oxide composites remains a challenging task. Most reported preparation techniques compromise structural integrity which limits its practical applications. This study reports innovative method by carefully controlling pyrolysis in a tubular furnace to produce Pyrolyzed MIL-53(Fe)/reduced graphene oxide (P-MIL-53(Fe)/RGO) composites to safeguard structural integrity while preserving RGO’s structure and achieving high EMI shielding efficiency. Various mass ratios of reduced graphene oxide were investigated (15%, 20%, and 30%) to indicate the impact of calcination in changing the degree of graphitization and its effect on the shielding performance. P-MIL-53(Fe)/RGO30 stands out, achieving notable total shielding effectiveness (SET) of 46.5 dB and absorption shielding efficiency (SEA) of 40.3 dB with 2 g of reduced graphene oxide (5 mm thick). The study offers a simple strategy to produce the desired composite with preserved reduced graphene oxide’s structural integrity which has a potential EMI shielding performance. These insights hold promise for diverse applications demanding robust, high-performance electromagnetic wave shielding materials.

New clues for postbiotics to improve host health: a review from the perspective of function and mechanisms.

Strain activity and stability severely limit the beneficial effects of probiotics in modulating host health. Postbiotics have emerged as a promising alternative as they can provide similar or even enhanced efficacy to probiotics, even under inactivated conditions. This review introduces the ingredients, preparation, and identification techniques of postbiotics, focusing on the comparison of the advantages and limitations between probiotics and postbiotics based on their mechanisms and applications. Inactivation treatment is the most significant difference between postbiotics and probiotics. We highlight the use of emerging technologies to inactivate probiotics, optimize process conditions to maintain the activity of postbiotics, or scale up their production. Postbiotics have high stability which can overcome unfavorable factors, such as easy inactivation and difficult colonization of probiotics after entering the intestine, and are rapidly activated, allowing continuous and rapid optimization of the intestinal microecological environment. They provide unique mechanisms, and multiple targets act on the gut-organ axis, co-providing new clues for the study of the biological functions of postbiotics. We summarize the mechanisms of action of inactivated lactic acid bacteria, highlighting that the NF-κB and MAPK pathways can be used as immune targeting pathways for postbiotic modulation of host health. Generally, we believe that as the classification, composition, and efficacy mechanism of postbiotics become clearer they will be more widely used in food, medicine, and other fields, greatly enriching the dimensions of food innovation. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Abstract 7257: Examining the promise of precision medicine in immuno-oncology: Vectors for targeted therapeutic delivery

Abstract At the forefront of therapeutic delivery is an array of vectors and targeting methods that hold immense promise for precision medicine. Vehicles such as viral vectors (AAV and lentivirus), lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) or liposomes, and peptide micelles each possess distinct and inherent properties, empowering researchers with tools to navigate the intricate challenges of specificity and efficiency in drug transport. Herein, we discuss and demonstrate design principles underpinning these vectors, elucidating their unique mechanisms for targeted delivery including:- A high-throughput viral packaging process to enable rapid downstream CRISPR or shRNA screening- Proprietary AAV plasmid synthesis and preparation techniques to maintain ITR integrity and improve gene delivery- Rapid synthesis, in vitro transcription, and novel sequencing of mRNA constructs for complete characterization of critical components such as the polyA tailBy synthesizing advancements in vector technologies, this poster serves as a roadmap for researchers and practitioners navigating the evolving landscape of targeted drug delivery in immuno-oncology. Citation Format: Crystal Richardson, Prassanna Rao, Cassandra Koole, Michael J. Karney, Sumit Kumar. Examining the promise of precision medicine in immuno-oncology: Vectors for targeted therapeutic delivery [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 7257.

Abstract 317: Using the Biomek NGeniuS Next Generation Library Prep System to automate the Illumina TruSight Oncology 500 assay

Abstract Cancer researchers using next generation sequencing (NGS) need reliable sample preparation methodologies that generate high-quality, sequence-ready libraries from often-challenging samples. This process can be aided using automated liquid handling systems. The Biomek NGeniuS Next Generation Library Prep System from Beckman Coulter Life Sciences is a reliable, easy-to-use, purpose-built liquid handler for NGS library preparation ideal for laboratories requiring more flexibility and less hands-on time. The user-friendly software requires no programming skills, making it easy to set up and run. Biomek NGeniuS Next Generation Library Prep System’s hardware features include an on-deck thermal cycler, gripper, temperature-controlled reagent storage, and high-density tip storage which reduces user interventions and enables more walkaway time. An extensive and growing library of complimentary demonstrated NGS sample prep protocols allows the user to select from a variety of applications for NGS workflows. One such workflow is Illumina TruSight Oncology 500 assay, which represents a comprehensive NGS assay targeting the full coding regions of 523 genes implicated in the pathogenesis of solid tumors. Using enrichment-based library preparation techniques for use with formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples, the Illumina TruSight Oncology 500 assay, when running the DNA Only workflow, can detect single nucleotide variants (SNVs), indels, amplifications, and multinucleotide variants (MNVs) in a single sequencing run. The Illumina TruSight Oncology 500 assay also detects immunotherapy biomarkers for tumor mutational burden (TMB) and microsatellite instability (MSI) in DNA samples. The Illumina TruSight Oncology 500 assay also offers a combined RNA/DNA workflow that also allows for the assessment of fusion events. In this poster, we show the utility of the Biomek NGeniuS Next Generation Library Prep System to perform the Illumina TruSight Oncology 500 assay, which saves researchers valuable hands-on time and offers a highly streamlined setup process for users new to liquid handling automation. Confidential - Company Proprietary Citation Format: Zach Smith. Using the Biomek NGeniuS Next Generation Library Prep System to automate the Illumina TruSight Oncology 500 assay [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 317.

Sample preparation matters: Scanning electron microscopic characterization of polymeric membranes

This study systematically examines the influence of polymeric membrane sample preparation techniques on their morphologies and structures as revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). We address the variability introduced by diverse preparation methods in research, which leads to subjective qualitative and quantitative SEM interpretations. Our investigation encompasses various preparation techniques, focusing on cryogenic sectioning—alongside SEM operational parameters including accelerating voltage and conductive sputter coating thickness. We demonstrate that surface morphology analysis via SEM is significantly affected by coating thickness and accelerating voltage, while cross-sectional images (typically, at much higher magnification) exhibit little difference in morphology. However, improper preparation can damage membranes, compromising cross-sectional imaging. We provide a detailed exploration of the cryogenic-sectioning and its effects on SEM image quality. Our findings indicate one's selection of preparation procedure can create significant biases in SEM analyses of microfiltration, ultrafiltration, and reverse osmosis polymeric membranes.

In-tube solid phase extraction with graphitic-based polyurethane sponge as a superhydrophobic sorbent and determination of drug residues in foodstuffs using high-performance liquid chromatography

Veterinary drugs used in animal husbandry raise public health concerns due to their residues in the bodies of animals. This study employs a simple and quick sample preparation technique, in-tube solid phase extraction, to extract drug residues from foodstuffs, including eggs, honey, and water. This technique utilizes the synergy of graphitic-based materials and polyurethane sponges (PU) combined through dip coating method to make reusable sorbents for extracting drugs, including amoxicillin, paracetamol, ciprofloxacin, and cefixime. These prepared sorbents were characterized using FTIR, SEM, and XRD. HPLC analysis assessed the extraction efficiency, considering various parameters such as analyte concentration, sample solution pH, extraction time, type of eluting solvent, and graphitic-based polyurethane sponge reusability and stability. The proposed method exhibited a linear response for all three sorbents in the range of 0.03–1000 µg mL−1, with LOD 0.03–1.60 µg mL−1 and LOQ 0.18–4.84 µg mL−1. The % RSD ranged from 1.3 to 9.3 %, with recoveries of up to 98.42 %.

Optimizing slurry preparation for improved mechanical and physical characteristics of nata de coco-based edible packaging

Conventional plastic food packaging, primarily composed of non-biodegradable synthetic polymers, has been a significant environmental concern. To address this issue, this study proposes the use of nata de coco (NDC) as an eco-friendly, edible alternative for food packaging, aiming to optimize NDC-based packaging to enhance both food safety and packaging quality. The study also seeks to improve the solubility of NDC edible packaging when mixed with food. To achieve this, NDC was processed into a slurry using different preparation techniques: kitchen blender (B), blender-hand mixer (BM), blender-sieve (BS), and blender-food chopper (BFC). Furthermore, the BFC treatment achieved the highest water solubility at 96.85% and demonstrated a tensile strength 19.35% greater than the B treatment. In assessing the practical application, the shelf-life of red ginger powder packaged in NDC sachets was estimated. Impressively, the highest shelf-life was recorded at 8 °C, lasting 331.74 days. The development of this bacterial-resistant, edible, sustainable packaging offers a viable substitute for the environmental effects of traditional plastic packaging.

Self-Assembled BiGaSeAs Composite Superlattice-Structured Nanowire for Broad-Band Photodetection.

Photodetectors with a broad-band response range are widely used in many fields and are regarded as pivotal components of the modern miniaturized electronics industry. However, commercial broad-band photodetectors composed of traditional bulk semiconductor materials are still limited by complex preparation techniques, high costs, and a lack of mechanical strength and flexibility, which are difficult to satisfy the increasing demand for flexible and wearable optoelectronics. Therefore, researchers have been devoted to finding new strategies to obtain flexible, stable, and high-performance broad-band photodetectors. In this work, a novel self-assembled BiGaSeAs composite superlattice-structured nanowire was developed with a simple chemical vapor deposition method for easy fabrication. After the device assembling, the photodetector showed outstanding performance in terms of obvious Ion/Ioff (13.9), broad-band photoresponse (365-940 nm), excellent responsivity (1007.67 A/W), high detectivity (9.38 × 109 Jones), and rapid response (21 and 23 ms). The formation of microheterojunctions among various materials inside the nanowires also contributed to their extended broad-spectrum response and outstanding detection ability. These results indicate that the BiGaSeAs nanowires have potential applications in the field of flexible and wearable electronics.

Advancements in Olive-derived Carbon: Preparation Methods and Sustainable Applications.

In the realm of material science, carbon materials, especially olive-derived carbon (ODC), have become vital due to their sustainability and diverse properties. This review examines the sustainable extraction and use of ODC, a carbohydrate-rich by-product of olive biomass. We focus on innovative preparation techniques like pyrolysis, which are crucial forenhancing ODC's microstructure and surface properties. Variables such as activating agents, impregnation ratios, and pyrolysis conditions significantly influence these properties. ODC's high specific surface area renders it invaluable for applications in energy storage (batteries and supercapacitors) and environmental sectors (water purification, hydrogen storage). Its versatility and accessibility underscore its potential for broad industrial use, makingit as a key element in sustainable development. This review provides a detailed analysis of ODC preparation methodologies, its various applications, and its role in advancing sustainable energy solutions. We highlight the novelty of ODC research and its impact on future studies, establishing this review as a crucial resource for researchers and practitioners in sustainable carbon materials. As global focus shifts towards eco-friendly solutions, ODC emerges as a critical component in shaping a sustainable, innovation-driven future.

Two-step sintering technique of LATP ceramic electrolyte with enhanced key parameters

A new preparation technique of Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 (LATP) ceramics is focused on optimisation of weight fractions of LATP glass additives into green ceramic powder followed by enhanced two-step sintering to improve key parameters of relative density and ionic conductivity of LATP solid-state electrolyte (SSE) pellets. The LATP SSE has been obtained with the relative density and ionic conductivity of (96.3±0.2)% and (8.0±0.2)×10−4 S/cm, respectively, after pre-annealing at 570°C for 6 h and sintering at 900°C for 6 h of mixed glass and ceramic powders with an optimal weight ratio of 5%/95%. Notably, the Li||LATP||Li symmetric cell using such LATP SSE could maintain voltage stability for 300 h, and the Li||LATP||NCM111 full cell exhibits good cycling performance over 100 cycles with capacity above 100 mAh/g (capacity retention of 79.1%). The proposed simple technique seems to be effective to improve the relative density and ionic conductivity thus acclerating the development of all-solid-state lithium metal battery.

Degradation of Water Pollutants by Biochar Combined with Advanced Oxidation: A Systematic Review

Recently, biochar has emerged as a promising option for environmentally friendly remediation due to its cost-effectiveness, extensive surface area, porosity, and exceptional electrical conductivity. Biochar-based advanced oxidation procedures (BC-AOPs) have gained popularity as an effective approach to breaking down organic pollutants in aqueous environments. It is commonly recognized that the main reactive locations within BC-AOPs consist of functional groups found on biochar, which encompass oxygen-containing groups (OCGs), imperfections, and persistent free radicals (PFRs). Additionally, the existence of metallic components supported on biochar and foreign atoms doped into it profoundly impacts the catalytic mechanism. These components not only modify the fundamental qualities of biochar but also serve as reactive sites. Consequently, this paper offers a comprehensive review of the raw materials, preparation techniques, modification approaches, and composite catalyst preparation within the biochar catalytic system. Special attention is given to explaining the modifications in biochar properties and their impacts on catalytic activity. This paper highlights degradation mechanisms, specifically pathways that include radical and non-radical processes. Additionally, it thoroughly examines the importance of active sites as catalysts and the basic catalytic mechanism of BC-AOPs. Finally, the potential and future directions of environmental remediation using biochar catalysts and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are discussed. Moreover, suggestions for future advancements in BC-AOPs are provided to facilitate further development.

Magnetic-Controlled Short Process Preparation Technique for Phosphor Bronze Based on Structure Refinement

Magnetic-Controlled Short Process Preparation Technique for Phosphor Bronze Based on Structure Refinement

Hollow mushroom nanomaterials for potentiometric sensing of Pb2+ ions in water via the intercalation of iodide ions into the polypyrrole matrix

Abstract Herein, the synthesis of a sensor for the determination of lead (Pb2+) ions via the intercalation of iodide ions into the polypyrrole matrix is performed. It demonstrated a Nernstian slope of 31.7 mV/decade, indicating a linear response within the concentration range of 10−5–10−1 M. The detection limit achieved is 9.10−6 M, indicating the sensor’s sensitivity to low concentrations of Pb2+. The effectiveness of the Ppy/I− sensor in Pb2+ sensing is confirmed through cyclic voltammetry, where a peak potential of −0.2 V is observed. The sensitivity of the sensor for Pb2+ detection is measured to be 2 µA/M. Moreover, the Ppy/I− sensor exhibits a negative response to interfering ions, which enhances its selectivity for Pb2+ detection. Furthermore, when tested with natural water samples such as tap or underground water, which are typically free of lead ions, the sensor demonstrates a negative response to normal interfering ions commonly found in such samples. The Ppy/I− sensor offers several advantages, including the ability to detect Pb2+ ions at very low concentrations, a flexible and adaptable design, and a cost-effective preparation technique. These features make it a promising tool for accurate and efficient detection of Pb2+ ions.

Two stents’ dislodgement in the left main coronary artery: a case report

BackgroundStent dislodgement is a life-threatening complication that can result in coronary artery embolization, stent thrombosis, acute myocardial infarction, and even death. Severely angulated, heavily calcified, and previously stented coronary arteries are associated risk factors. With the development of different lesion preparation techniques and the drug eluting stent era, the reported incidence of stent dislodgement has decreased to < 1% in the last few years.Case presentationWe report a case of a 64-year-old Moroccan man complicated during percutaneous intervention in the left main artery by the loss of two stents. This complication was successfully managed by passing the stent’s balloon into the stent and then fully expanding it. In our case, the device’s characteristics were involved and could play a role in such complications, but it is still not well understood.ConclusionsThe main treatment option is stent retrieval with different available techniques. If retrieval of the stent is impossible, crushing it against the blood vessel wall could be considered.

An eco-friendly self-assembled catalyst preparation and study of tetracycline degradation: Performance, mechanism to application

Chloromethyl styrene resin can undergo specific chemical modifications and is an excellent adsorbent material for treating difficult-to-degrade substances in wastewater. In this study, chloromethyl styrene resin will be used as a carrier, and polystyrene chloromethyl resin (PS-Cl) was converted into PS-NH2 by amino modification. The self-assembly of cobalt-based metal–organic framework (CoMOF) was induced on the surface of PS-NH2 by using a novel preparation technique. The performance of the prepared PS-NH2@CoMOF self-assembled catalysts with core–shell-like structures in degrading the target pollutant, tetracycline (TC), was evaluated. The catalysts effectively induced rapid OH radical production from H2O2, had a degradation rate of as high as 88.3 % for 20 mg/L TC solution, and were highly stable and adaptable to aqueous environments. Free radicals and intermediates in the catalytic degradation process were detected by electron paramagnetic resonance and high-performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, and possible catalytic degradation pathways were analyzed. The catalytic dissociation behavior of H2O2 in the presence of different catalysts was studied in depth and compared with that of similar metal–organic framework materials through density-functional theory calculations. Results demonstrated the excellent performance of the PS-NH2@CoMOF catalysts. Finally, the catalysts' potential for use in practical engineering applications was evaluated with a flow column experimental model, and the results were more than satisfactory. Therefore, the use of the catalysts to degrade TC has great potential.

Advances in sample preparation for volatile profiling of plant proteins: Fundamentals and future perspectives

Due to the increasing world population and consumer desire for sustainable and nutritious protein sources, the food industry is currently experiencing tremendous pressure to develop innovative, sensorially acceptable, health-promoting plant-based products. Plant proteins, specifically pulse proteins arise as a healthy and sustainable protein source for food applications. However, the use of pulse protein is challenged by its intrinsic undesirable aroma often described as beany, grassy, and green. These off notes can be inherent, i.e. generated from plant metabolism, or produced during processing and/or storage and encompass a broad variety of chemical classes. Since aroma plays a major role in consumer acceptance and eating habits and due to its chemical complexity, proper analytical methods must be used for its assessment. Considering that the effectiveness of an analytical method is significantly influenced by its sample preparation step, this review focuses on sample preparation techniques for monitoring the volatile profile of pulse proteins, their advantages, and disadvantages, while concurrently highlighting the potential of novel technologies for advancing this critical application.