NACE-ESI-TOF MS to reveal phenolic compounds from olive oil: introducing enriched olive oil directly inside capillary.

PubMed

Gómez-Caravaca, Ana María; Carrasco-Pancorbo, Alegría; Segura-Carretero, Antonio; Fernández-Gutiérrez, Alberto

2009-09-01

Most CE methods for the analysis of phenols from olive oil use an aqueous electrolyte separation medium, although the importance of NACE is obvious, as this kind of CE seems to be more compatible with the hydrophobic olive oil matrix and could facilitate its direct injection. In the current work we develop a method involving SPE and NACE coupled to ESI-TOF MS. All the CE and ESI-TOF MS parameters were optimized in order to maximize the number of phenolic compounds detected and the sensitivity in their determination. Electrophoretic separation was carried out using a CE buffer system consisting of 25 mM NH(4)OAc/AcH in methanol/ACN (1/1 v/v) at an apparent pH value of 5.0. We studied in depth the effect of the nature and concentration of different electrolytes dissolved in different organic solvents and other experimental and instrumental CE variables. The results were compared with those obtained by CZE (with aqueous buffers) coupled to ESI-TOF MS; both methods offered to the analyst the chance to study phenolic compounds of different families (such as phenolic alcohols, lignans, complex phenols, flavonoids, etc.) from virgin olive oil by injecting methanolic extracts with efficient and fast CE separations. In the case of NACE method, we also studied the direct injection of the investigated matrix introducing a plug of olive oil directly into the capillary.

A coloured oil level indicator detection method based on simple linear iterative clustering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Tianli; Li, Dongsong; Jiao, Zhiming; Liang, Tao; Zhou, Hao; Yang, Guoqing

2017-12-01

A detection method of coloured oil level indicator is put forward. The method is applied to inspection robot in substation, which realized the automatic inspection and recognition of oil level indicator. Firstly, the detected image of the oil level indicator is collected, and the detected image is clustered and segmented to obtain the label matrix of the image. Secondly, the detection image is processed by colour space transformation, and the feature matrix of the image is obtained. Finally, the label matrix and feature matrix are used to locate and segment the detected image, and the upper edge of the recognized region is obtained. If the upper limb line exceeds the preset oil level threshold, the alarm will alert the station staff. Through the above-mentioned image processing, the inspection robot can independently recognize the oil level of the oil level indicator, and instead of manual inspection. It embodies the automatic and intelligent level of unattended operation.

In situ analysis of corrosion inhibitors using a portable mass spectrometer with paper spray ionization.

PubMed

Jjunju, Fred P M; Li, Anyin; Badu-Tawiah, Abraham; Wei, Pu; Li, Linfan; Ouyang, Zheng; Roqan, Iman S; Cooks, R Graham

2013-07-07

Paper spray (PS) ambient ionization is implemented using a portable mass spectrometer and applied to the detection of alkyl quaternary ammonium salts in a complex oil matrix. These salts are commonly used as active components in the formulation of corrosion inhibitors. They were identified in oil and confirmed by their fragmentation patterns recorded using tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). The cations of alkyl and benzyl-substituted quaternary ammonium salts showed characteristic neutral losses of CnH2n (n carbon number of the longest chain) and C7H8, respectively. Individual quaternary ammonium compounds were detected at low concentrations (<1 ng μL(-1)) and over a dynamic range of ∼5 pg μL(-1) to 500 pg μL(-1) (ppb). Direct detection of these compounds in complex oil samples without prior sample preparation or pre-concentration was also demonstrated using a home-built miniature mass spectrometer at levels below 1 ng μL(-1).

Development and characterization of nanoparticulate formulation of a water soluble prodrug of dexamethasone by HIP complexation.

PubMed

Gaudana, Ripal; Parenky, Ashwin; Vaishya, Ravi; Samanta, Swapan K; Mitra, Ashim K

2011-01-01

The objective of this study was to develop and characterize a nanoparticulate-based sustained release formulation of a water soluble dipeptide prodrug of dexamethasone, valine-valine-dexamethasone (VVD). Being hydrophilic in nature, it readily leaches out in the external aqueous medium and hence partitions poorly into the polymeric matrix resulting in minimal entrapment in nanoparticles. Hence, hydrophobic ion pairing (HIP) complexation of the prodrug was employed with dextran sulphate as a complexing polymer. A novel, solid in oil in water emulsion method was employed to encapsulate the prodrug in HIP complex form in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) matrix. Nanoparticles were characterized with respect to size, zeta potential, crystallinity of entrapped drug and surface morphology. A significant enhancement in the entrapment of the prodrug in nanoparticles was achieved. Finally, a simple yet novel method was developed which can also be applicable to encapsulate other charged hydrophilic molecules, such as peptides and proteins.

Development and characterization of nanoparticulate formulation of a water soluble prodrug of dexamethasone by HIP complexation

PubMed Central

Gaudana, Ripal; Parenky, Ashwin; Vaishya, Ravi; Samanta, Swapan K.; Mitra, Ashim K.

2015-01-01

The objective of this study was to develop and characterize a nanoparticulate-based sustained release formulation of a water soluble dipeptide prodrug of dexamethasone, valine–valine-dexamethasone (VVD). Being hydrophilic in nature, it readily leaches out in the external aqueous medium and hence partitions poorly into the polymeric matrix resulting in minimal entrapment in nanoparticles. Hence, hydrophobic ion pairing (HIP) complexation of the prodrug was employed with dextran sulphate as a complexing polymer. A novel, solid in oil in water emulsion method was employed to encapsulate the prodrug in HIP complex form in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) matrix. Nanoparticles were characterized with respect to size, zeta potential, crystallinity of entrapped drug and surface morphology. A significant enhancement in the entrapment of the prodrug in nanoparticles was achieved. Finally, a simple yet novel method was developed which can also be applicable to encapsulate other charged hydrophilic molecules, such as peptides and proteins. PMID:20939702

Source and Biological Response of Biochar Organic Compounds Released into Water; Relationships with Bio-Oil Composition and Carbonization Degree.

PubMed

Ghidotti, Michele; Fabbri, Daniele; Mašek, Ondřej; Mackay, Colin Logan; Montalti, Marco; Hornung, Andreas

2017-06-06

Water-soluble organic compounds (WSOCs) were extracted from corn stalk biochar produced at increasing pyrolysis temperatures (350-650 °C) and from the corresponding vapors, collected as bio-oil. WSOCs were characterized by gas chromatography (semivolatile fraction), negative electron spray ionization high resolution mass spectrometry (hydrophilic fraction) and fluorescence spectroscopy. The pattern of semivolatile WSOCs in bio-oil was dominated by aromatic products from lignocellulose, while in biochar was featured by saturated carboxylic acids from hemi/cellulose and lipids with concentrations decreasing with decreasing H/C ratios. Hydrophilic species in poorly carbonized biochar resembled those in bio-oil, but the increasing charring intensity caused a marked reduction in the molecular complexity and degree of aromaticity. Differences in the fluorescence spectra were attributed to the predominance of fulvic acid-like structures in biochar and lignin-like moieties in bio-oil. The divergence between pyrolysis vapors and biochar in the distribution of WSOCs with increasing carbonization was explained by the hydrophobic carbonaceous matrix acting like a filter favoring the release into water of carboxylic and fulvic acid-like components. The formation of these structures was confirmed in biochar produced by pilot plant pyrolysis units. Biochar affected differently shoot and root length of cress seedlings in germination tests highlighting its complex role on plant growth.

Phase-field simulation of counter-current spontaneous imbibition in a fractured heterogeneous porous medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rokhforouz, M. R.; Akhlaghi Amiri, H. A.

2017-06-01

Spontaneous imbibition is well-known to be one of the most effective processes of oil recovery in fractured reservoirs. However, the detailed pore-scale mechanisms of the counter-current imbibition process and the effects of different fluid/rock parameters on this phenomenon have not yet been deeply addressed. This work presents the results of a new pore-level numerical study of counter-current spontaneous imbibition, using coupled Cahn-Hilliard phase field and Navier-Stokes equations, solved by a finite element method. A 2D fractured medium was constructed consisting of a nonhomogeneous porous matrix, in which the grains were represented by an equilateral triangular array of circles with different sizes and initially saturated with oil, and a fracture, adjacent to the matrix, initially saturated with water and supported by low rate water inflow. Through invasion of water into the matrix, oil drops were expelled one by one from the matrix to the fracture, and in the matrix, water progressed by forming capillary fingerings, with characteristics corresponding to the experimental observations. The effects of wettability, viscosity ratio, and interfacial tension were investigated. In strongly water-wet matrix, with grain contact angles of θ < π/8, different micro-scale mechanisms were successfully captured, including oil film thinning and rupture, fluids' contact line movement, water bridging, and oil drop detachment. It was notified that there was a specific grain contact angle for this simulated model, θ = π/4, above it, matrix oil recovery was negligible by imbibition, while below it, the imbibition rate and oil recovery were significantly increased by decreasing the contact angle. In simulated mixed wet models, water, coming from the fracture, just invaded the neighboring water-wet grains; the water front was stopped moving as it met the oil-wet grains or wide pores/throats. Increasing water-oil interfacial tension, in the range of 0.005-0.05 N/m, resulted in both higher rate of imbibition and higher ultimate oil recovery. Changing the water-oil viscosity ratio (M), in the range of 0.1-10, had a negligible effect on the imbibition rate, while due to co-effects of capillary fingering and viscous mobility ratio, the model with M = 1 had relatively higher ultimate oil recovery.

Scaling of counter-current imbibition recovery curves using artificial neural networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jafari, Iman; Masihi, Mohsen; Nasiri Zarandi, Masoud

2018-06-01

Scaling imbibition curves are of great importance in the characterization and simulation of oil production from naturally fractured reservoirs. Different parameters such as matrix porosity and permeability, oil and water viscosities, matrix dimensions, and oil/water interfacial tensions have an effective on the imbibition process. Studies on the scaling imbibition curves along with the consideration of different assumptions have resulted in various scaling equations. In this work, using an artificial neural network (ANN) method, a novel technique is presented for scaling imbibition recovery curves, which can be used for scaling the experimental and field-scale imbibition cases. The imbibition recovery curves for training and testing the neural network were gathered through the simulation of different scenarios using a commercial reservoir simulator. In this ANN-based method, six parameters were assumed to have an effect on the imbibition process and were considered as the inputs for training the network. Using the ‘Bayesian regularization’ training algorithm, the network was trained and tested. Training and testing phases showed superior results in comparison with the other scaling methods. It is concluded that using the new technique is useful for scaling imbibition recovery curves, especially for complex cases, for which the common scaling methods are not designed.

Oil-in-water emulsions as a delivery system for n-3 fatty acids in meat products.

PubMed

Salminen, Hanna; Herrmann, Kurt; Weiss, Jochen

2013-03-01

The oxidative and physical stabilities of oil-in-water emulsions containing n-3 fatty acids (25 wt.% oil, 2.5 wt.% whey protein, pH 3.0 or pH 6.0), and their subsequent incorporation into meat products were investigated. The physical stability of fish oil emulsions was excellent and neither coalescence nor aggregation occurred during storage. Oxidative stability was better at pH 6.0 compared to pH 3.0 likely due to antioxidative continuous phase proteins. Incorporation of fish oil emulsions into pork sausages led to an increase in oxidation compared to sausages without the added fish oil emulsion. Confocal microscopy of pork sausages with fish oil emulsions revealed that droplets had coalesced in the meat matrix over time which may have contributed to the decreased oxidative stability. Results demonstrate that although interfacial engineering of n-3 fatty acids containing oil-in-water emulsions provides physical and oxidative stability of the base-emulsion, their incorporation into complex meat matrices is a non-trivial undertaking and products may incur changes in quality over time. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The potential of SNP-based PCR-RFLP capillary electrophoresis analysis to authenticate and detect admixtures of Mediterranean olive oils.

PubMed

Bazakos, Christos; Khanfir, Emna; Aoun, Mariem; Spano, Thodhoraq; Zein, Zeina El; Chalak, Lamis; Riachy, Milad El; Abou-Sleymane, Gretta; Ali, Sihem Ben; Grati Kammoun, Naziha; Kalaitzis, Panagiotis

2016-07-01

Authentication and traceability of extra virgin olive oil is a challenging research task due to the complexity of fraudulent practices. In this context, the monovarietal olive oils of Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) require new tests and cutting edge analytical technologies to detect mislabeling and misleading origin. Toward this direction, DNA-based technologies could serve as a complementary to the analytical techniques assay. Single nucleotide polymorphisms are ideal molecular markers since they require short PCR analytical targets which are a prerequisite for forensic applications in olive oil sector. In the present study, a small number of polymorphic SNPs were used with an SNP-based PCR-RFLP capillary electrophoresis platform to discriminate six out of 13 monovarietal olive oils of Mediterranean origin from three different countries, Greece, Tunisia, and Lebanon. Moreover, the high sensitivity of capillary electrophoresis in combination with the DNA extraction protocol lowered the limit of detection to 10% in an admixture of Tsounati in a Koroneiki olive oil matrix. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Oil-free hyaluronic acid matrix for serial femtosecond crystallography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sugahara, Michihiro; Song, Changyong; Suzuki, Mamoru; Masuda, Tetsuya; Inoue, Shigeyuki; Nakane, Takanori; Yumoto, Fumiaki; Nango, Eriko; Tanaka, Rie; Tono, Kensuke; Joti, Yasumasa; Kameshima, Takashi; Hatsui, Takaki; Yabashi, Makina; Nureki, Osamu; Numata, Keiji; Iwata, So

2016-04-01

The grease matrix was originally introduced as a microcrystal-carrier for serial femtosecond crystallography and has been expanded to applications for various types of proteins, including membrane proteins. However, the grease-based matrix has limited application for oil-sensitive proteins. Here we introduce a grease-free, water-based hyaluronic acid matrix. Applications for proteinase K and lysozyme proteins were able to produce electron density maps at 2.3-Å resolution.

Chemical interactions in complex matrices: Determination of polar impurities in biofuels and fuel contaminants in building materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baglayeva, Ganna

The solutions to several real-life analytical and physical chemistry problems, which involve chemical interactions in complex matrices are presented. The possible interferences due to the analyte-analyte and analyte-matrix chemical interactions were minimized on each step of the performed chemical analysis. Concrete and wood, as major construction materials, typically become contaminated with fuel oil hydrocarbons during their spillage. In the catastrophic scenarios (e.g., during floods), fuel oil mixes with water and then becomes entrained within the porous structure of wood or concrete. A strategy was proposed for the efficient extraction of fuel oil hydrocarbons from concrete to enable their monitoring. The impacts of sample aging and inundation with water on the extraction efficiency were investigated to elucidate the nature of analytematrix interactions. Two extraction methods, 4-days cold solvent extraction with shaking and 24-hours Soxhlet extraction with ethylacetate, methanol or acetonitrile yielded 95-100 % recovery of fuel oil hydrocarbons from concrete. A method of concrete remediation after contamination with fuel oil hydrocarbons using activated carbon as an adsorbent was developed. The 14 days remediation was able to achieve ca. 90 % of the contaminant removal even from aged water-submerged concrete samples. The degree of contamination can be qualitatively assessed using transport rates of the contaminants. Two models were developed, Fickian and empirical, to predict long-term transport behavior of fuel oil hydrocarbons under flood representative scenarios into wood. Various sorption parameters, including sorption rate, penetration degree and diffusion coefficients were obtained. The explanations to the observed three sorption phases are provided in terms of analyte-matrix interactions. The detailed simultaneous analysis of intermediate products of the cracking of triacylglycerol oils, namely monocarboxylic acids, triacyl-, diacyl- and monoacylglycerols was developed. The identification and quantification of analytes were performed using a 15-m high temperature capillary column (DB-1HT) with a GC coupled to both flame ionization and mass spectrometric detectors. To eliminate discrimination of low or high molecular weight species, programmed temperature vaporization (PTV) injection parameters were optimized using design of experiments methodology. Evaluation of the column temperature program and MS parameters allowed achieving separation of majority of target compounds based on their total number of carbon atoms, regioisomerization and, to some extent, degree of unsaturation.

Both gas chromatography and an electronic nose reflect chemical polymorphism of juniper shrubs browsed or avoided by sheep.

PubMed

Markó, Gábor; Novák, Ildikó; Bernáth, Jeno; Altbäcker, Vilmos

2011-07-01

Chemical polymorphism may contribute to variation in browsing damage by mammalian herbivores. Earlier, we demonstrated that essential oil concentration in juniper, Juniperus communis, was negatively associated with herbivore browsing. The aim of the present study was to characterize the volatile chemical composition of browsed and non-browsed J. communis. By using either gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID) or an electronic nose device, we could separate sheep-browsed or non-browsed juniper shrubs by their essential oil pattern and complex odor matrix. The main components of the essential oil from J. communis were monoterpenes. We distinguished three chemotypes, dominated either by α-pinene, sabinene, or δ-3-carene. Shrubs belonging to the α-pinene- or sabinene-dominated groups were browsed, whereas all individuals with the δ-3-carene chemotype were unused by the local herbivores. The electronic nose also separated the browsed and non-browsed shrubs indicating that their odor matrix could guide sheep browsing. Responses of sheep could integrate the post-ingestive effects of plant secondary metabolites with sensory experience that stems from odor-phytotoxin interactions. Chemotype diversity could increase the survival rate in the present population of J. communis as certain shrubs could benefit from relatively better chemical protection against the herbivores.

Source apportionment of PM10 by positive matrix factorization in urban area of Mumbai, India.

PubMed

Gupta, Indrani; Salunkhe, Abhaysinh; Kumar, Rakesh

2012-01-01

Particulate Matter (PM(10)) has been one of the main air pollutants exceeding the ambient standards in most of the major cities in India. During last few years, receptor models such as Chemical Mass Balance, Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF), PCA-APCS and UNMIX have been used to provide solutions to the source identification and contributions which are accepted for developing effective and efficient air quality management plans. Each site poses different complexities while resolving PM(10) contributions. This paper reports the variability of four sites within Mumbai city using PMF. Industrial area of Mahul showed sources such as residual oil combustion and paved road dust (27%), traffic (20%), coal fired boiler (17%), nitrate (15%). Residential area of Khar showed sources such as residual oil combustion and construction (25%), motor vehicles (23%), marine aerosol and nitrate (19%), paved road dust (18%) compared to construction and natural dust (27%), motor vehicles and smelting work (25%), nitrate (16%) and biomass burning and paved road dust (15%) in Dharavi, a low income slum residential area. The major contributors of PM(10) at Colaba were marine aerosol, wood burning and ammonium sulphate (24%), motor vehicles and smelting work (22%), Natural soil (19%), nitrate and oil burning (18%).

On the performance of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for direct determination of trace metals in lubricating oils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Lijuan; Cao, Fan; Xiu, Junshan; Bai, Xueshi; Motto-Ros, Vincent; Gilon, Nicole; Zeng, Heping; Yu, Jin

2014-09-01

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) provides a technique to directly determine metals in viscous liquids and especially in lubricating oils. A specific laser ablation configuration of a thin layer of oil applied on the surface of a pure aluminum target was used to evaluate the analytical figures of merit of LIBS for elemental analysis of lubricating oils. Among the analyzed oils, there were a certified 75cSt blank mineral oil, 8 virgin lubricating oils (synthetic, semi-synthetic, or mineral and of 2 different manufacturers), 5 used oils (corresponding to 5 among the 8 virgin oils), and a cooking oil. The certified blank oil and 4 virgin lubricating oils were spiked with metallo-organic standards to obtain laboratory reference samples with different oil matrix. We first established calibration curves for 3 elements, Fe, Cr, Ni, with the 5 sets of laboratory reference samples in order to evaluate the matrix effect by the comparison among the different oils. Our results show that generalized calibration curves can be built for the 3 analyzed elements by merging the measured line intensities of the 5 sets of spiked oil samples. Such merged calibration curves with good correlation of the merged data are only possible if no significant matrix effect affects the measurements of the different oils. In the second step, we spiked the remaining 4 virgin oils and the cooking oils with Fe, Cr and Ni. The accuracy and the precision of the concentration determination in these prepared oils were then evaluated using the generalized calibration curves. The concentrations of metallic elements in the 5 used lubricating oils were finally determined.

Experimental design for the formulation and optimization of novel cross-linked oilispheres developed for in vitro site-specific release of Mentha piperita oil.

PubMed

Sibanda, Wilbert; Pillay, Viness; Danckwerts, Michael P; Viljoen, Alvaro M; van Vuuren, Sandy; Khan, Riaz A

2004-03-12

A Plackett-Burman design was employed to develop and optimize a novel crosslinked calcium-aluminum-alginate-pectinate oilisphere complex as a potential system for the in vitro site-specific release of Mentha piperita, an essential oil used for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. The physicochemical and textural properties (dependent variables) of this complex were found to be highly sensitive to changes in the concentration of the polymers (0%-1.5% wt/vol), crosslinkers (0%-4% wt/vol), and crosslinking reaction times (0.5-6 hours) (independent variables). Particle size analysis indicated both unimodal and bimodal populations with the highest frequency of 2 mm oilispheres. Oil encapsulation ranged from 6 to 35 mg/100 mg oilispheres. Gravimetric changes of the crosslinked matrix indicated significant ion sequestration and loss in an exponential manner, while matrix erosion followed Higuchi's cube root law. Among the various measured responses, the total fracture energy was the most suitable optimization objective (R2 = 0.88, Durbin-Watson Index = 1.21%, Coefficient of Variation (CV) = 33.21%). The Lagrangian technique produced no significant differences (P > .05) between the experimental and predicted total fracture energy values (0.0150 vs 0.0107 J). Artificial Neural Networks, as an alternative predictive tool of the total fracture energy, was highly accurate (final mean square error of optimal network epoch approximately 0.02). Fused-coated optimized oilispheres produced a 4-hour lag phase followed by zero-order kinetics (n > 0.99), whereby analysis of release data indicated that diffusion (Fickian constant k1 = 0.74 vs relaxation constant k2 = 0.02) was the predominant release mechanism.

Additive manufacturing of complex-shaped graded TiC/steel composites

DOE PAGES

Levy, Asaf; Miriyev, Aslan; Elliott, Amy; ...

2017-01-12

Complex-shaped TiCx ceramic preforms with a gradient of carbon content in the titanium carbide phase (x changes from 0.7 to 0.98) were fabricated for the first time by Binder jet 3D printing technology. The complex-shaped preforms were infiltrated with molten carbon steel (0.7 wt.%C). Thermodynamic considerations showed that carbon could be transferred from titanium carbide to steel and vice versa according to the initial concentration of carbon (activity) in both phases. After infiltration, solidification and slow cooling, a microstructural gradient was obtained throughout the steel matrix from ferrite, in the region where the steel was in contact with titanium carbidemore » of low carbon content (x=0.7), to pearlite, in the region where the steel underwent interactions with stoichiometric titanium carbide (x=0.98). After annealing at 900°C and quenching in oil, a structural gradient in the steel matrix from ferrite to martensite was obtained, resulting in a hardness gradient of 700-1600 HV. The suggested processing approach allows for fabrication of complex-shaped graded composites with the desired property gradient suitable for a wide range of practical applications.« less

Additive manufacturing of complex-shaped graded TiC/steel composites

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Levy, Asaf; Miriyev, Aslan; Elliott, Amy

Complex-shaped TiCx ceramic preforms with a gradient of carbon content in the titanium carbide phase (x changes from 0.7 to 0.98) were fabricated for the first time by Binder jet 3D printing technology. The complex-shaped preforms were infiltrated with molten carbon steel (0.7 wt.%C). Thermodynamic considerations showed that carbon could be transferred from titanium carbide to steel and vice versa according to the initial concentration of carbon (activity) in both phases. After infiltration, solidification and slow cooling, a microstructural gradient was obtained throughout the steel matrix from ferrite, in the region where the steel was in contact with titanium carbidemore » of low carbon content (x=0.7), to pearlite, in the region where the steel underwent interactions with stoichiometric titanium carbide (x=0.98). After annealing at 900°C and quenching in oil, a structural gradient in the steel matrix from ferrite to martensite was obtained, resulting in a hardness gradient of 700-1600 HV. The suggested processing approach allows for fabrication of complex-shaped graded composites with the desired property gradient suitable for a wide range of practical applications.« less

Characteristics and oil sorption effectiveness of kapok fibre, sugarcane bagasse and rice husks: oil removal suitability matrix.

PubMed

Ali, Norizan; El-Harbawi, Mohanad; Jabal, Ayman Abo; Yin, Chun-Yang

2012-01-01

The characteristics and water/oil sorption effectiveness ofkapok fibre, sugarcane bagasse and rice husks have been compared. The three biomass types were subjected to field emission scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and surface tension analyses for liquid-air and oil-water systems were conducted. Both kapok fibre and sugarcane bagasse exhibit excellent oil sorption capabilities for diesel, crude, new engine and used engine oils as their oil sorption capacities all exceed 10 g/g. The synthetic sorbent exhibits oil sorption capacities comparable with sugarcane bagasse, while rice husks exhibit the lowest oil sorption capacities among all the sorbents. Kapok fibre shows overwhelmingly high oil-to-water sorption (O/W) ratios ranging from 19.35 to 201.53 while sugarcane bagasse, rice husks and synthetic sorbent have significantly lower O/W ratios (0.76-2.69). This suggests that kapok fibre is a highly effective oil sorbent even in well-mixed oil-water media. An oil sorbent suitability matrix is proposed to aid stakeholders in evaluating customized oil removal usage of the natural sorbents.

Humic acids as both matrix for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and adsorbent for magnetic solid phase extraction.

PubMed

Zhao, Qin; Xu, Jing; Yin, Jia; Feng, Yu-Qi

2015-08-19

In the present study, humic acids (HAs) were applied as both a matrix for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) and an adsorbent of magnetic solid phase extraction (MSPE) for the first time. As natural macromolecule compounds, HAs are inherently highly functionalized and contain laser energy absorbing-transferring aromatic structures. This special molecular structure made HAs a good candidate for use as a MALDI matrix in small molecule analysis. At the same time, due to its good adsorption ability, HAs was prepared as MSPE adsorbent via a simple co-mixing method, in which the commercially available HAs were directly mixed with Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in a mortar and grinded evenly and completely. In this process, MNPs were physically wrapped and adhered to tiny HAs leading to the formation of magnetic HAs (MHAs). To verify the bi-function of the MHAs, Rhodamine B (RdB) was chosen as model compound. Our results show that the combination of MHAs-based MSPE and MALDI-TOF-MS can provide a rapid and sensitive method for the determination of RdB in chili oil. The whole analytical procedure could be completed within 30 min for simultaneous determination of more than 20 samples, and the limit of quantitation for RdB was found to be 0.02 μg/g. The recoveries in chili oil were in the range 73.8-81.5% with the RSDs less than 21.3% (intraday) and 20.3% (interday). The proposed strategy has potential applications for high-throughput analysis of small molecules in complex samples. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The quantum matrix and information from the hydrocarbon oil molecule

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seyful-Mulyukov, R. B.

2016-03-01

The quantum matrix of the hydrocarbon (HC) molecule is substantiated. On the basis of its properties and behavior, the genesis of oil is explained as a process of self-evolution of oil and preservation of molecules of different composition and generation time. Individual HC molecules are generated in nanoseconds, and the period of the genesis of oil is comparable with that of migration of the HC fluid from the mantle to the deposit. A model of subatomic abiogenic genesis of oil is presented. Hydrocarbon (HC) molecules of various structure and composition are formed due to interaction of the valency electron orbitals of C and H atoms, the elemental particles of which are quantum objects and carriers of information. On the basis of this, the term quantum matrix of the HC molecule, the properties and behavior of which explain the genesis of oil as a process of its self-evolution and preservation of the molecules of various composition and the period of generation of oil, is substantiated. It is proved that individual HC molecules are generated within nanoseconds and the period of origin of the entire assemblage of more than 500 molecules of oil of various types is comparable with the period of migration of the HC fluid from the mantle to the deposit.

Excitation-emission matrix scan analysis of raw fish oil from coastal New Jersey menhaden collected before and after Hurricane Sandy.

PubMed

Bentivegna, Carolyn S; DeFelice, Chelsea R; Murphy, Wyatt R

2016-06-30

The impact of Hurricane Sandy (October 29, 2012) on PAH exposure was investigated in adult Atlantic menhaden (Brevoortia tyrannus) collected along the NJ coast. Collections were made in August, September and/or October of 2011, 2012 and 2013. PAHs were monitored in raw fish oil using excitation-emission matrix (EEM) spectroscopy. Results showed that raw fish oils had relatively high levels of high molecular weight, PAH-like compounds (173 to 24,421ng/mL) compared to values reported for bile in other species. EEM profiles resembled that of crude oil and excluded matrix interference by some common biological molecules that also fluoresce. Concentrations and EEM profiles varied by collection; however, collection ship, month, year and fish size did not account for the data. Replicates showed that fish from the same catch had similar PAH exposure. Overall, Hurricane Sandy did not alter body burdens of PAHs in raw fish oil of menhaden. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Impact of change of matrix crystallinity and polymorphism on ovalbumin release from lipid-based implants.

PubMed

Duque, Luisa; Körber, Martin; Bodmeier, Roland

2018-05-30

The objectives of this study were to prepare lipid-based implants by hot melt extrusion (HME) for the prolonged release of ovalbumin (OVA), and to relate protein release to crystallinity and polymorphic changes of the lipid matrix. Two lipids, glycerol tristearate and hydrogenated palm oil, with different composition and degree of crystallinity were studied. Solid OVA was dispersed within the lipid matrixes, which preserved its stability during extrusion. This was partially attributed to a protective effect of the lipidic matrix. The incorporation of OVA decreased the mechanical strength of the implants prepared with the more crystalline matrix, glycerol tristearate, whereas it remained comparable for the hydrogenated palm oil because of stronger physical and non-covalent interactions between the protein and this lipid. This was also the reason for the faster release of OVA from the glycerol tristearate matrix when compared to the hydrogenated palm oil (8 vs. 28 weeks). Curing induced and increased crystallinity, and changes in the release rate, especially for the more crystalline matrix. In this case, both an increase and a decrease in release, were observed depending on the tempering condition. Curing at higher temperatures induced a melt-mediated crystallization and solid state transformation of the glycerol tristearate matrix and led to rearrangements of the inner structure with the formation of larger pores, which accelerated the release. In contrast, changes in the hydrogenated palm oil under the same curing conditions were less noticeable leading to a more robust formulation, because of less polymorphic changes over time. This study helps to understand the effect of lipid matrix composition and crystallinity degree on the performance of protein-loaded implants, and to establish criteria for the selection of a lipid carrier depending on the release profile desired. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Multiphoton writing of three-dimensional fluidic channels within a porous matrix.

PubMed

Lee, Jyh-Tsung; George, Matthew C; Moore, Jeffrey S; Braun, Paul V

2009-08-19

We demonstrate a facile method for fabricating novel 3D microfluidic channels by using two-photon-activated chemistry to locally switch the interior surface of a porous host from a hydrophobic state to a hydrophilic state. The 3D structures can be infilled selectively with water and/or hydrophobic oil with a minimum feature size of only a few micrometers. We envision that this approach may enable the fabrication of complex microfluidic structures that cannot be easily formed via current technologies.

Selective factors governing in vitro β-carotene bioaccessibility: negative influence of low filtration cutoffs and alterations by emulsifiers and food matrices.

PubMed

Corte-Real, Joana; Richling, Elke; Hoffmann, Lucien; Bohn, Torsten

2014-12-01

Because of their putative health benefits, the biological fate of carotenoids after digestion has been met with much interest, and ex vivo methods using carotenoid standards to study their digestion and further metabolism have been developed. In the absence of a complex food matrix, that is, when studying isolated carotenoids, protocol conditions of gastrointestinal digestion models have to be adjusted. In this investigation, we hypothesized that certain selected factors would significantly influence the bioaccessibility of β-carotene in vitro. The factors considered included (i) type of lipid matrix employed (milk, cream, or oil), (ii) presence/absence of emulsifiers (e.g. lecithin and taurocholate), (iii) addition of a gastric lipase, and (iv) final filtration (20 or 200 nm) of the digesta. Adding an emulsifier mixture (10 mg lecithin + 50 mg monoolein + 5 mg oleic acid) enhanced β-carotene bioaccessibility 3 times (P < 0.001), whereas additional taurocholate and the presence/absence of gastric lipase added before intestinal digestion had no significant effect. β-Carotene bioaccessibility was superior with oil than with milk (18.8% ± 0.7% and 6.1% ± 0.7%, respectively; P = 0.03), especially after filtration, thus suggesting incomplete micelle formation after addition of milk. Filtration through 20 nm filters reduced carotenoid concentration in the aqueous fraction (from 7.1% ± 0.2% to 5.5% ± 0.2% in samples digested with canola oil, P < 0.001), indicating that not all formed micelles compared in size with those normally formed in vivo. When studying carotenoid standards during in vitro digestion, care should be taken to separate mixed micelles by filtration, and the choice of emulsifier and matrix should be considered. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Solution for blank and matrix difficulties encountered during phthalate analysis of edible oils by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Vavrouš, Adam; Pavloušková, Jana; Ševčík, Václav; Vrbík, Karel; Čabala, Radomír

2016-07-22

Worldwide production of phthalates has led to their undesirable presence in the food chain. Particularly edible oils have become an area of growing concern owing to numerous reported occurrences of phthalates. The analytical methods used in this field face difficulties associated mainly with matrix complexity or phthalate contamination which this study has aimed to describe and resolve. The proposed procedure consisting of liquid-liquid extraction, solid phase extraction and high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry allowed us to analyze simultaneously 6 individual phthalates and 2 phthalate isomeric mixtures. DSC-18 SPE phase was selected for cleanup owing to the most efficient co-extract removal (assessed using high resolution mass spectrometry). Several sources of phthalate contamination were identified, however, the mobile phase was the most serious. The key improvement was achieved by equipping a contamination trap, a 50-mm reverse phase HPLC column, generating a delay between target and mobile phase peaks of the same compounds. RSDs ranging between 2.4 and 16 % confirm good precision and LOQs between 5.5 and 110μgkg(-1) reflect satisfactory blank management. With up to 19 occurrences in 25 analyzed edible oil samples and levels up to 33mgkg(-1), bis(2-ethylhexyl), diisononyl and diisodecyl phthalates were the most important contaminants. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Bio-oil upgrading strategies to improve PHA production from selected aerobic mixed cultures.

PubMed

Moita Fidalgo, Rita; Ortigueira, Joana; Freches, André; Pelica, João; Gonçalves, Magarida; Mendes, Benilde; Lemos, Paulo C

2014-06-25

Recent research on polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) has focused on developing cost-effective production processes using low-value or industrial waste/surplus as substrate. One of such substrates is the liquid fraction resulting from pyrolysis processes, bio-oil. In this study, valorisation of bio-oil through PHA production was investigated. The impact of the complex bio-oil matrix on PHA production by an enriched mixed culture was examined. The performance of the direct utilization of pure bio-oil was compared with the utilization of three defined substrates contained in this bio-oil: acetate, glucose and xylose. When compared with acetate, bio-oil revealed lower capacity for polymer production as a result of a lower polymer yield on substrate and a lower PHA cell content. Two strategies for bio-oil upgrade were performed, anaerobic fermentation and vacuum distillation, and the resulting liquid streams were tested for polymer production. The first one was enriched in volatile fatty acids and the second one mainly on phenolic and long-chain fatty acids. PHA accumulation assays using the upgraded bio-oils attained polymer yields on substrate similar or higher than the one achieved with acetate, although with a lower PHA content. The capacity to use the enriched fractions for polymer production has yet to be optimized. The anaerobic digestion of bio-oil could also open-up the possibility to use the fermented bio-oil directly in the enrichment process of the mixed culture. This would increase the selective pressure toward an optimized PHA accumulating culture selection. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Time-resolved lidar fluorosensor for sea pollution detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ferrario, A.; Pizzolati, P. L.; Zanzottera, E.

1986-01-01

A contemporary time and spectral analysis of oil fluorescence is useful for the detection and the characterization of oil spills on the sea surface. Nevertheless the fluorosensor lidars, which were realized up to now, have only partial capability to perform this double analysis. The main difficulties are the high resolution required (of the order of 1 nanosecond) and the complexity of the detection system for the recording of a two-dimensional matrix of data for each laser pulse. An airborne system whose major specifications were: time range, 30 to 75 ns; time resolution, 1 ns; spectral range, 350 to 700 nm; and spectral resolution, 10 nm was designed and constructed. The designed system of a short pulse ultraviolet laser source and a streak camera based detector are described.

A green chemometrics-assisted fluorimetric detection method for the direct and simultaneous determination of six polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in oil-field wastewaters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gu, Hui-Wen; Zhang, Shan-Hui; Wu, Bai-Chun; Chen, Wu; Wang, Jing-Bo; Liu, Yang

2018-07-01

Oil-field wastewaters contain high level of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have to be analyzed to assess the environmental effects before discharge. In this work, a green fluorimetric detection method that combines excitation-emission matrix (EEM) fluorescence with parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) algorithm was firstly developed to achieve the direct and simultaneous determination of six U.S. EPA PAHs in two different kinds of complex oil-field wastewaters. Due to the distinctive "second-order advantage", neither time-consuming sample pretreatments nor toxic organic reagents were involved in the determination. By using the environment-friendly "mathematical separation" of PARAFAC, satisfactory quantitative results and reasonable spectral profiles for six PAHs were successfully extracted from the total EEM signals of oil-field wastewaters without need of chromatographic separation. The limits of detection of six PAHs were in the range of 0.09-0.72 ng mL-1, and the average spiked recoveries were between (89.4 ± 4.8)% and (109.1 ± 5.8)%, with average relative predictive errors <2.93%. In order to further confirm the accuracy of the proposed method, the same batch oil-field wastewater samples were analyzed by the recognized GC-MS method. t-test demonstrated that no significant differences exist between the quantitative results of the two methods. Given the advantages of green, fast, low-cost and high-sensitivity, the proposed method is expected to be broadened as an appealing alternative method for multi-residue analysis of overlapped PAHs in complex wastewater samples.

Chitosan/cashew gum nanogels for essential oil encapsulation.

PubMed

Abreu, Flávia O M S; Oliveira, Erick F; Paula, Haroldo C B; de Paula, Regina C M

2012-08-01

Nanogels based on chitosan and cashew gum were prepared and loaded with Lippia sidoides oil. Several parameters such as cashew gum concentration and relative oil content in the matrix had their influence on nanogel properties investigated. Nanogels were characterized regarding their morphologies, particle size distributions, zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and essential oil contents. The release profile was investigated by UV/vis spectroscopy and its efficacy was determined through bioassays. Results showed that samples designed using relative ratios matrix:oil 10:2, gum:chitosan 1:1 and 5% gum concentration showed high loading (11.8%) and encapsulation efficiency (70%). Nanogels were found to exhibit average sizes in the range 335-558 nm. In vitro release profiles showed that nanoparticles presented slower and sustained release. Bioassays showed that larval mortality was related mainly to oil loading, with samples presenting more effective larvicide efficacies than the pure L. sidoides oil. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Biodegradable gelatin-chitosan films incorporated with essential oils as antimicrobial agents for fish preservation.

PubMed

Gómez-Estaca, J; López de Lacey, A; López-Caballero, M E; Gómez-Guillén, M C; Montero, P

2010-10-01

Essential oils of clove (Syzygium aromaticum L.), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Miller), cypress (Cupressus sempervirens L.), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), herb-of-the-cross (Verbena officinalis L.), pine (Pinus sylvestris) and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) were tested for their antimicrobial activity on 18 genera of bacteria, which included some important food pathogen and spoilage bacteria. Clove essential oil showed the highest inhibitory effect, followed by rosemary and lavender. In an attempt to evaluate the usefulness of these essential oils as food preservatives, they were also tested on an extract made of fish, where clove and thyme essential oils were the most effective. Then, gelatin-chitosan-based edible films incorporated with clove essential oil were elaborated and their antimicrobial activity tested against six selected microorganisms: Pseudomonas fluorescens, Shewanella putrefaciens, Photobacterium phosphoreum, Listeria innocua, Escherichia coli and Lactobacillus acidophilus. The clove-containing films inhibited all these microorganisms irrespectively of the film matrix or type of microorganism. In a further experiment, when the complex gelatin-chitosan film incorporating clove essential oil was applied to fish during chilled storage, the growth of microorganisms was drastically reduced in gram-negative bacteria, especially enterobacteria, while lactic acid bacteria remained practically constant for much of the storage period. The effect on the microorganisms during this period was in accordance with biochemical indexes of quality, indicating the viability of these films for fish preservation. 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Calculation model of the scattering polarization coherency matrix for a detection system of oil spills at sea.

PubMed

Xu, Jiang; Qian, Weixian; Chen, Qian; Zhou, Yang

2018-02-10

As a new analytical method to identify oil spills at sea, the main effect of a polarization measurement system is the scattering polarization information of different measured parts. To improve measurement accuracy, the scattering polarization characteristics of oil film and seawater were observed in this paper. A useful computational model, the scattering polarization coherency matrix (SPCM), was derived, which is a probabilistic mixture of the polarization coherency matrix. Combined with the Fresnel formula, the amplitude ratio and phase retardation were extracted to verify the scientific nature of the physical model. Experiments were performed, and the SPCM of the oil film and seawater were measured. In order to test the practicability of the model, we derived the degree of polarization from the SPCM and used it as the basis for identification of the actual oil spill at sea in the case of sunlight. Research indicated that the path of multiple scattering was in connection with the molecular structure and interactions of the medium. Under different measuring angles, the SPCM of the oil film and seawater have both differences and regularities; the experimental results indicate that it can be used for the rapid detection of an oil spill at sea, and the data are accurate and reliable.

Processing of oil palm empty fruit bunch as filler material of polymer recycles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saepulloh, D. R.; Nikmatin, S.; Hardhienata, H.

2017-05-01

Oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB) is waste from crude palm oil (CPO) processing plants. This research aims to process OPEFB to be a reinforcement polymer recycle with the mechanical milling method and identify each establishment molecular with the orbital hybridization theory. OPEFB fibers were synthesized using a mechanical milling until the size shortfiber and microfiber. Then do the biocomposite granular synthesis with single screw extruder. TAPPI chemical test shows levels of α-cellulose fibers amounted 41.68%. Based on density, the most optimum composition contained in the filler amounted 15% with the size is the microfiber. The test results of morphology with SEM showed deployment of filler OPEFB fiber is fairly equitable distributed. Regarding the molecular interaction between matrix with OPEFB fiber, described by the theory of orbital hybridization. But the explanation establishment of the bond for more complex molecules likes this from the side of the molecular orbital theory is necessary complete information of the hybrid levels.

Application of Multivariate Statistical Analysis to Biomarkers in Se-Turkey Crude Oils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gürgey, K.; Canbolat, S.

2017-11-01

Twenty-four crude oil samples were collected from the 24 oil fields distributed in different districts of SE-Turkey. API and Sulphur content (%), Stable Carbon Isotope, Gas Chromatography (GC), and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) data were used to construct a geochemical data matrix. The aim of this study is to examine the genetic grouping or correlations in the crude oil samples, hence the number of source rocks present in the SE-Turkey. To achieve these aims, two of the multivariate statistical analysis techniques (Principle Component Analysis [PCA] and Cluster Analysis were applied to data matrix of 24 samples and 8 source specific biomarker variables/parameters. The results showed that there are 3 genetically different oil groups: Batman-Nusaybin Oils, Adıyaman-Kozluk Oils and Diyarbakir Oils, in addition to a one mixed group. These groupings imply that at least, three different source rocks are present in South-Eastern (SE) Turkey. Grouping of the crude oil samples appears to be consistent with the geographic locations of the oils fields, subsurface stratigraphy as well as geology of the area.

Non-traditional applications of laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McAlpin, Casey R.

Seven studies were carried out using laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI MS) to develop enhanced methodologies for a variety of analyte systems by investigating analyte chemistries, ionization processes, and elimination of spectral interferences. Applications of LDI and matrix assisted laser/desorption/ionization (MALDI) have been previously limited by poorly understood ionization phenomena, and spectral interferences from matrices. Matrix assisted laser desorption ionization MS is well suited to the analysis of proteins. However, the proteins associated with bacteriophages often form complexes which are too massive for detection with a standard MALDI mass spectrometer. As such, methodologies for pretreatment of these samples are discussed in detail in the first chapter. Pretreatment of bacteriophage samples with reducing agents disrupted disulfide linkages and allowed enhanced detection of bacteriophage proteins. The second chapter focuses on the use of MALDI MS for lipid compounds whose molecular mass is significantly less than the proteins for which MALDI is most often applied. The use of MALDI MS for lipid analysis presented unique challenges such as matrix interference and differential ionization efficiencies. It was observed that optimization of the matrix system, and addition of cationization reagents mitigated these challenges and resulted in an enhanced methodology for MALDI MS of lipids. One of the challenges commonly encountered in efforts to expand MALDI MS applications is as previously mentioned interferences introduced by organic matrix molecules. The third chapter focuses on the development of a novel inorganic matrix replacement system called metal oxide laser ionization mass spectrometry (MOLI MS). In contrast to other matrix replacements, considerable effort was devoted to elucidating the ionization mechanism. It was shown that chemisorption of analytes to the metal oxide surface produced acidic adsorbed species which then protonated free analyte molecules. Expanded applications of MOLI MS were developed following description of the ionization mechanism. A series of experiments were carried out involving treatment of metal oxide surfaces with reagent molecules to expand MOLI MS and develop enhanced MOLI MS methodologies. It was found that treatment of the metal oxide surface with a small molecule to act as a proton source expanded MOLI MS to analytes which did not form acidic adsorbed species. Proton-source pretreated MOLI MS was then used for the analysis of oils obtained from the fast, anoxic pyrolysis of biomass (py-oil). These samples are complex and produce MOLI mass spectra with many peaks. In this experiment, methods of data reduction including Kendrick mass defects and nominal mass z*-scores, which are commonly used for the study of petroleum fractions, were used to interpret these spectra and identify the major constituencies of py-oils. Through data reduction and collision induced dissociation (CID), homologous series of compounds were rapidly identified. The final chapter involves using metal oxides to catalytically cleave the ester linkage on lipids containing fatty acids in addition to ionization. The cleavage process results in the production of spectra similar to those observed with saponification/methylation. Fatty acid profiles were generated for a variety of micro-organisms to differentiate between bacterial species. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

The effect of fibre content, fibre size and alkali treatment to Charpy impact resistance of Oil Palm fibre reinforced composite material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fitri, Muhamad; Mahzan, Shahruddin

2016-11-01

In this research, the effect of fibre content, fibre size and alkali treatment to the impact resistance of the composite material have been investigated, The composite material employs oil palm fibre as the reinforcement material whereas the matrix used for the composite materials are polypropylene. The Oil Palm fibres are prepared for two conditions: alkali treated fibres and untreated fibres. The fibre sizes are varied in three sizes: 5mm, 7mm and 10mm. During the composite material preparation, the fibre contents also have been varied into 3 different percentages: 5%, 7% and 10%. The statistical approach is used to optimise the variation of specimen determined by using Taguchi method. The results were analyzed also by the Taguchi method and shows that the Oil Palm fibre content is significantly affect the impact resistance of the polymer matrix composite. However, the fibre size is moderately affecting the impact resistance, whereas the fibre treatment is insignificant to the impact resistance of the oil palm fibre reinforced polymer matrix composite.

Fluorescence excitation-emission matrix (EEM) spectroscopy and cavity ring-down (CRD) absorption spectroscopy of oil-contaminated jet fuel using fiber-optic probes.

PubMed

Omrani, Hengameh; Barnes, Jack A; Dudelzak, Alexander E; Loock, Hans-Peter; Waechter, Helen

2012-06-21

Excitation emission matrix (EEM) and cavity ring-down (CRD) spectral signatures have been used to detect and quantitatively assess contamination of jet fuels with aero-turbine lubricating oil. The EEM spectrometer has been fiber-coupled to permit in situ measurements of jet turbine oil contamination of jet fuel. Parallel Factor (PARAFAC) analysis as well as Principal Component Analysis and Regression (PCA/PCR) were used to quantify oil contamination in a range from the limit of detection (10 ppm) to 1000 ppm. Fiber-loop cavity ring-down spectroscopy using a pulsed 355 nm laser was used to quantify the oil contamination in the range of 400 ppm to 100,000 ppm. Both methods in combination therefore permit the detection of oil contamination with a linear dynamic range of about 10,000.

An analytical Raman spectroscopic study of an important english oil painting of the 18th Century

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edwards, Howell G. M.; Vandenabeele, Peter; Jehlicka, Jan; Benoy, Timothy J.

2014-01-01

An opportunity was afforded to analyse pigment specimens from an unrestored oil painting in the style of the English School of the mid-18th Century prior to conservation being undertaken. Raman spectroscopy was adopted to characterise the pigments and indicated the presence of a novel red pigment which was assigned to the complex chromium mineral, hemihedrite, in addition to other interesting materials found in combination. This is the first recorded identification of hemihedrite spectral signals in an art context in a range of mineral pigments that are otherwise typical of this period and some hypotheses are presented to explain its presence based on its occurrence with associated mineral pigments. It is suggested that the presence of powdered glass identified in certain areas of the painting enhanced the reflectivity of the pigment matrix.

Organogelator-Cellulose Composite for Practical and Eco-Friendly Marine Oil-Spill Recovery.

PubMed

Prathap, Annamalai; Sureshan, Kana M

2017-08-01

Marine oil spills pose serious threats to the ecosystem and economy. There is much interest in developing sorbents that can tackle such spills. We have developed a novel sorbent by impregnating cellulose pulp with a sugar-derived oleogelator, 1,2:5,6-di-O-cyclohexylidene-mannitol. The gelator molecules mask the surface-exposed hydroxyl groups of cellulose fibrils by engaging them in H-bonding and expose their hydrophobic parts making the fibers temporarily hydrophobic (water contact angle 110°). This sorbent absorbs oil effectively, selectively and instantly from oil-water mixtures due to its hydrophobicity. Then the gelator molecules get released uniformly in the oil and later self-assemble to fibers, as evident from SEM analysis, congealing the oil within the matrix. This hierarchical entrapment of the oil by non-covalent polymeric fibers within a covalent polymer matrix makes the gel very strong (230-fold increase in the yield stress) and rigid, making it suitable for practical use. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Modulating fat digestion through food structure design.

PubMed

Guo, Qing; Ye, Aiqian; Bellissimo, Nick; Singh, Harjinder; Rousseau, Dérick

2017-10-01

Dietary fats and oils are an important component of our diet and a significant contributor to total energy and intake of lipophilic nutrients and bioactives. We discuss their fate in a wide variety of engineered, processed and naturally-occurring foods as they pass through the gastrointestinal tract and the implicit role of the food matrix within which they reside. Important factors that control fat and oil digestion include: 1) Their physical state (liquid or solid); 2) Dispersion of oil as emulsion droplets and control of the interfacial structure of emulsified oils; 3) The structure and rheology of the food matrix surrounding dispersed oil droplets; and 4) Alteration of emulsified oil droplet size and concentration. Using examples based on model foods such as emulsion gels and everyday foods such as almonds and cheese, we demonstrate that food structure design may be used as a tool to modulate fat and oil digestion potentially resulting in a number of targeted physiological outcomes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Spatial analysis of lipid metabolites and expressed genes reveals tissue-specific heterogeneity of lipid metabolism in high- and low-oil Brassica napus L. seeds.

PubMed

Lu, Shaoping; Sturtevant, Drew; Aziz, Mina; Jin, Cheng; Li, Qing; Chapman, Kent D; Guo, Liang

2018-06-01

Despite the importance of oilseeds to worldwide human nutrition, and more recently to the production of bio-based diesel fuels, the detailed mechanisms regulating seed oil biosynthesis remain only partly understood, especially from a tissue-specific perspective. Here, we investigated the spatial distributions of lipid metabolites and transcripts involved in oil biosynthesis from seeds of two low-erucic acid genotypes of Brassica napus with high and low seed-oil content. Integrated results from matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) of lipids in situ, lipidome profiling of extracts from seed tissues, and tissue-specific transcriptome analysis revealed complex spatial distribution patterns of lipids and transcripts. In general, it appeared that many triacylglycerol and phosphatidylcholine species distributed heterogeneously throughout the embryos. Tissue-specific transcriptome analysis identified key genes involved in de novo fatty acid biosynthesis in plastid, triacylglycerols assembly and lipid droplet packaging in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) that may contribute to the high or low oil phenotype and heterogeneity of lipid distribution. Our results imply that transcriptional regulation represents an important means of impacting lipid compartmentalization in oil seeds. While much information remains to be learned about the intricacies of seed oil accumulation and distribution, these studies highlight the advances that come from evaluating lipid metabolism within a spatial context and with multiple omics level datasets. © 2018 The Authors The Plant Journal © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Fluorescence excitation-emission matrix spectroscopy for degradation monitoring of machinery lubricants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sosnovski, Oleg; Suresh, Pooja; Dudelzak, Alexander E.; Green, Benjamin

2018-02-01

Lubrication oil is a vital component of heavy rotating machinery defining the machine's health, operational safety and effectiveness. Recently, the focus has been on developing sensors that provide real-time/online monitoring of oil condition/lubricity. Industrial practices and standards for assessing oil condition involve various analytical methods. Most these techniques are unsuitable for online applications. The paper presents the results of studying degradation of antioxidant additives in machinery lubricants using Fluorescence Excitation-Emission Matrix (EEM) Spectroscopy and Machine Learning techniques. EEM Spectroscopy is capable of rapid and even standoff sensing; it is potentially applicable to real-time online monitoring.

Effects of adding corn oil and soy protein to corn starch on the physicochemical and digestive properties of the starch.

PubMed

Chen, Xu; He, Xiao-Wei; Zhang, Bin; Fu, Xiong; Jane, Jay-Lin; Huang, Qiang

2017-11-01

This study aimed to understand effects of adding corn oil (CO) and soy protein (SP) to corn starch on the physicochemical properties and digestive rates of annealed starch complex and mechanisms of interactions between corn starch (CS), CO and SP. Binary and ternary blends were prepared using CS mixed with CO (10%, dsb) and/or SP (10%, dsb) and incubated in a water bath at 50°C for 14h. Results showed that more agglomerates of the granules were in the ternary blends. With the addition of CO and/or SP, the CS displayed a decreased pasting temperature, an increased peak viscosity and a decreased enthalpy change of amylose-lipid complex dissociation. The CO can reinforce but SP hinder the annealing phenomenon. Results also showed that CO decreased retrogradation of CS, whereas SP increased it. The digestibility studies showed that the addition of CO and SP decreased the content of rapidly digestible starch and increased the sum of slowly digestible starch and resistant starch contents. SP displayed more impact on the digestibility of the ternary blends than CO. The physical barrier of CO, and amylose-lipid complex and protein-starch matrix can provide resistance to starch digestion. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Rapid screening of mixed edible oils and gutter oils by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Ng, Tsz-Tsun; So, Pui-Kin; Zheng, Bo; Yao, Zhong-Ping

2015-07-16

Authentication of edible oils is a long-term issue in food safety, and becomes particularly important with the emergence and wide spread of gutter oils in recent years. Due to the very high analytical demand and diversity of gutter oils, a high throughput analytical method and a versatile strategy for authentication of mixed edible oils and gutter oils are highly desirable. In this study, an improved matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) method has been developed for direct analysis of edible oils. This method involved on-target sample loading, automatic data acquisition and simple data processing. MALDI-MS spectra with high quality and high reproducibility have been obtained using this method, and a preliminary spectral database of edible oils has been set up. The authenticity of an edible oil sample can be determined by comparing its MALDI-MS spectrum and principal component analysis (PCA) results with those of its labeled oil in the database. This method is simple and the whole process only takes several minutes for analysis of one oil sample. We demonstrated that the method was sensitive to change in oil compositions and can be used for measuring compositions of mixed oils. The capability of the method for determining mislabeling enables it for rapid screening of gutter oils since fraudulent mislabeling is a common feature of gutter oils. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Glass transitions and physical aging of cassava starch - corn oil blends.

PubMed

Pérez, Adriana; Sandoval, Aleida J; Cova, Aura; Müller, Alejandro J

2014-05-25

Glass transition temperatures and physical aging of amorphous cassava starch and their blends with corn oil were assessed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Two enthalpic relaxation endotherms, well separated in temperature values, were exhibited by neat amorphous cassava starch with 10.6% moisture content, evidencing two amorphous regions within the starch with different degrees of mobility. The phase segregation of these two amorphous regions was favored by added corn oil at low moisture contents during storage. The presence of amylose-lipid complexes in this matrix, may also affect the molecular dynamics of these two amorphous regions at low moisture contents. Increasing moisture content, leads to a homogeneous amorphous phase, with an aging process characterized by a single enthalpic relaxation peak. In all cases, after deleting the thermal history of the samples only one glass transition temperature was detected (during DSC second heating runs) indicating that a single homogeneous amorphous phase was attained after erasing the effects of physical aging. Trends of the enthalpic relaxation parameters were also different at the two moisture contents considered in this work. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The loss of essential oil components induced by the Purge Time in the Pressurized Liquid Extraction (PLE) procedure of Cupressus sempervirens.

PubMed

Dawidowicz, Andrzej L; Czapczyńska, Natalia B; Wianowska, Dorota

2012-05-30

The influence of different Purge Times on the effectiveness of Pressurized Liquid Extraction (PLE) of volatile oil components from cypress plant matrix (Cupressus sempervirens) was investigated, applying solvents of diverse extraction efficiencies. The obtained results show the decrease of the mass yields of essential oil components as a result of increased Purge Time. The loss of extracted components depends on the extrahent type - the greatest mass yield loss occurred in the case of non-polar solvents, whereas the smallest was found in polar extracts. Comparisons of the PLE method with Sea Sand Disruption Method (SSDM), Matrix Solid-Phase Dispersion Method (MSPD) and Steam Distillation (SD) were performed to assess the method's accuracy. Independent of the solvent and Purge Time applied in the PLE process, the total mass yield was lower than the one obtained for simple, short and relatively cheap low-temperature matrix disruption procedures - MSPD and SSDM. Thus, in the case of volatile oils analysis, the application of these methods is advisable. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Measurement and Visualization of Tight Rock Exposed to CO2 Using NMR Relaxometry and MRI

PubMed Central

Wang, Haitao; Lun, Zengmin; Lv, Chengyuan; Lang, Dongjiang; Ji, Bingyu; Luo, Ming; Pan, Weiyi; Wang, Rui; Gong, Kai

2017-01-01

Understanding mechanisms of oil mobilization of tight matrix during CO2 injection is crucial for CO2 enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and sequestration engineering design. In this study exposure behavior between CO2 and tight rock of the Ordos Basin has been studied experimentally by using nuclear magnetic resonance transverse relaxation time (NMR T2) spectrum and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) under the reservoir pressure and temperature. Quantitative analysis of recovery at the pore scale and visualization of oil mobilization are achieved. Effects of CO2 injection, exposure times and pressure on recovery performance have been investigated. The experimental results indicate that oil in all pores can be gradually mobilized to the surface of rock by CO2 injection. Oil mobilization in tight rock is time-consuming while oil on the surface of tight rock can be mobilized easily. CO2 injection can effectively mobilize oil in all pores of tight rock, especially big size pores. This understanding of process of matrix exposed to CO2 could support the CO2 EOR in tight reservoirs. PMID:28281697

A combined approach of physicochemical and biological methods for the characterization of petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated soil.

PubMed

Masakorala, Kanaji; Yao, Jun; Chandankere, Radhika; Liu, Haijun; Liu, Wenjuan; Cai, Minmin; Choi, Martin M F

2014-01-01

Main physicochemical and microbiological parameters of collected petroleum-contaminated soils with different degrees of contamination from DaGang oil field (southeast of Tianjin, northeast China) were comparatively analyzed in order to assess the influence of petroleum contaminants on the physicochemical and microbiological properties of soil. An integration of microcalorimetric technique with urease enzyme analysis was used with the aim to assess a general status of soil metabolism and the potential availability of nitrogen nutrient in soils stressed by petroleum-derived contaminants. The total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) content of contaminated soils varied from 752.3 to 29,114 mg kg(−1). Although the studied physicochemical and biological parameters showed variations dependent on TPH content, the correlation matrix showed also highly significant correlation coefficients among parameters, suggesting their utility in describing a complex matrix such as soil even in the presence of a high level of contaminants. The microcalorimetric measures gave evidence of microbial adaptation under highest TPH concentration; this would help in assessing the potential of a polluted soil to promote self-degradation of oil-derived hydrocarbon under natural or assisted remediation. The results highlighted the importance of the application of combined approach in the study of those parameters driving the soil amelioration and bioremediation.

Food matrix effects on in vitro digestion of microencapsulated tuna oil powder.

PubMed

Shen, Zhiping; Apriani, Christina; Weerakkody, Rangika; Sanguansri, Luz; Augustin, Mary Ann

2011-08-10

Tuna oil, containing 53 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 241 mg of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) per gram of oil, delivered as a neat microencapsulated tuna oil powder (25% oil loading) or in food matrices (orange juice, yogurt, or cereal bar) fortified with microencapsulated tuna oil powder was digested in simulated gastric fluid or sequentially in simulated gastric fluid and simulated intestinal fluid. The level of fortification was equivalent to 1 g of tuna oil per recommended serving size (i.e., per 200 g of orange juice or yogurt or 60 g of cereal bar). The changes in particle size of oil droplets during digestion were influenced by the method of delivery of the microencapsulated tuna oil powder. Lipolysis in simulated gastric fluid was low, with only 4.4-6.1% EPA and ≤1.5% DHA released after digestion (as a % of total fatty acids present). After sequential exposure to simulated gastric and intestinal fluids, much higher extents of lipolysis of both glycerol-bound EPA and DHA were obtained (73.2-78.6% for the neat powder, fortified orange juice, and yogurt; 60.3-64.0% for the fortified cereal bar). This research demonstrates that the choice of food matrix may influence the lipolysis of microencapsulated tuna oil.

Effect of drying and co-matrix addition on the yield and quality of supercritical CO₂ extracted pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch.) oil.

PubMed

Durante, Miriana; Lenucci, Marcello S; D'Amico, Leone; Piro, Gabriella; Mita, Giovanni

2014-04-01

In this work a process for obtaining high vitamin E and carotenoid yields by supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO₂) extraction from pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch.) is described. The results show that the use of a vacuum oven-dried [residual moisture (∼8%)] and milled (70 mesh sieve) pumpkin flesh matrix increased SC-CO₂ extraction yields of total vitamin E and carotenoids of ∼12.0- and ∼8.5-fold, respectively, with respect to the use of a freeze-dried and milled flesh matrix. The addition of milled (35 mesh) pumpkin seeds as co-matrix (1:1, w/w) allowed a further ∼1.6-fold increase in carotenoid yield, besides to a valuable enrichment of the extracted oil in vitamin E (274 mg/100 g oil) and polyunsaturated fatty acids. These findings encourage further studies in order to scale up the process for possible industrial production of high quality bioactive ingredients from pumpkin useful in functional food or cosmeceutical formulation. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Food Matrix Effects on Bioaccessibility of β-Carotene Can be Measured in an in Vitro Gastrointestinal Model

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Since the food matrix determines β-carotene availability for intestinal absorption, food matrix effects on the bioaccessibility of β-carotene from two diets were investigated in vitro and compared with in vivo data. The “mixed diet” consisted of β-carotene-rich vegetables, and the “oil diet” contained β-carotene-low vegetables with supplemental β-carotene. The application of extrinsically labeled β-carotene was also investigated. The bioaccessibility of β-carotene was 28 μg/100 μg β-carotene from the mixed diet and 53 μg/100 μg β-carotene from the oil diet. This ratio of 1.9:1 was consistent with in vivo data, where the apparent absorption was 1.9-fold higher in the oil diet than in the mixed diet. The labeled β-carotene was not equally distributed over time. In conclusion, the food matrix effects on bioaccessibility of β-carotene could be measured using an in vitro model and were consistent with in vivo data. The application of extrinsically labeled β-carotene was not confirmed. PMID:24397305

A novel baseline-correction method for standard addition based derivative spectra and its application to quantitative analysis of benzo(a)pyrene in vegetable oil samples.

PubMed

Li, Na; Li, Xiu-Ying; Zou, Zhe-Xiang; Lin, Li-Rong; Li, Yao-Qun

2011-07-07

In the present work, a baseline-correction method based on peak-to-derivative baseline measurement was proposed for the elimination of complex matrix interference that was mainly caused by unknown components and/or background in the analysis of derivative spectra. This novel method was applicable particularly when the matrix interfering components showed a broad spectral band, which was common in practical analysis. The derivative baseline was established by connecting two crossing points of the spectral curves obtained with a standard addition method (SAM). The applicability and reliability of the proposed method was demonstrated through both theoretical simulation and practical application. Firstly, Gaussian bands were used to simulate 'interfering' and 'analyte' bands to investigate the effect of different parameters of interfering band on the derivative baseline. This simulation analysis verified that the accuracy of the proposed method was remarkably better than other conventional methods such as peak-to-zero, tangent, and peak-to-peak measurements. Then the above proposed baseline-correction method was applied to the determination of benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) in vegetable oil samples by second-derivative synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy. The satisfactory results were obtained by using this new method to analyze a certified reference material (coconut oil, BCR(®)-458) with a relative error of -3.2% from the certified BaP concentration. Potentially, the proposed method can be applied to various types of derivative spectra in different fields such as UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy.

The test of Tensile Properties and Water Resistance of a Novel Cross-linked Starch Prepared by Adding Oil-Flax

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Dawei; Wang, Rui

2017-12-01

In this study, to solve the poor water resistance and the low mechanical properties of starch, a mixed-starch composite matrix which including glycerol, sorbitol, and urea, were prepared via single-crew extrusion, then adding oil-flax to improve its physical mechanical and used to a source of biodegradable plastics material. The composite matrix was systematically characterized using various analytic tools including XRD, SEM and TG. The composite showed a maximum tensile strength of 18.11Mpa and moisture absorption 17.67%, while the original starch matrix was only 12.51 Mpa and 24.98%, respectively.

Encapsulation of Organic Chemicals within a Starch Matrix.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wing, R. E.; Shasha, B. S.

1983-01-01

Three experiments demonstrating the feasibility of encapsulating liquids within a starch matrix are described, including encapsulation of linseed oil using the zanthate method and of turpentine and butylate using the calcium adduct procedure. Encapsulated materials, including pesticides, are slowly released from the resulting matrix. Considers…

Low-cost humic acid-bonded silica as an effective solid-phase extraction sorbent for convenient determination of aflatoxins in edible oils.

PubMed

Zhou, Neng-Zhi; Liu, Ping; Su, Xiao-Chuan; Liao, Yan-Hua; Lei, Ning-Sheng; Liang, Yong-Hong; Zhou, Shao-Huan; Lin, Wen-Si; Chen, Jie; Feng, Yu-Qi; Tang, Yang

2017-06-01

Aflatoxins (AFs) are highly toxic, mutagenic, carcinogenic, and teratogenic secondary metabolites produced by the toxigenic fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. AFs tend to contaminate a wide range of foods which is a serious and recurring food safety problem worldwide. Currently, immunoaffinity chromatography (IAC) has become the most conventional sample clean-up method for determining AFs in foodstuffs. However, IAC method is limited in the large-scale food analysis because it requires the use of expensive disposable cartridges and the IA procedure is time-consuming. Herein, to achieve the cost-effective determination of AFs in edible oils, we developed a promising solid-phase extraction (SPE) method based on commercially available humic acid-bonded silica (HAS) sorbent, followed by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) analysis. In HAS-SPE, AFs can be captured by the HAS sorbent with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic interactions, whereas the oil matrix was captured only with the hydrophobic interactions. The oil matrix can be sufficiently washed off with isopropanol, while the AFs were still retained on the SPE packing, thus achieving selective extraction of AFs and clean-up of oil matrices. Under the optimal conditions of HAS-SPE, satisfactory recoveries ranging from 82% to 106% for four AFs (B 1 , B 2 , G 1 , and G 2 ) were achieved in various oil matrices, containing blended oil, tea oil, rapeseed oil, peanut oil, sunflower seed oil, corn oil, blended olive oil, rice oil, soybean oil, and sesame oil. Only minor matrix effects ranging from 99% to 105% for four AFs were observed. Moreover, the LODs of AFs between 0.012 and 0.035 μg/kg completely meet the regulatory levels fixed by the EU, China or other countries. The methodology was further validated for assaying the naturally contaminated peanut oils, and consistent results between the HAS-SPE and the referenced IAC were obtained. In addition, HAS-SPE can directly treat diluted oil sample without liquid-liquid extraction and is automatable, thus making it simple and convenient for the large-scale determination of AFs in edible oils. Using this method, we successfully detected four AFs in the naturally contaminated peanut oils, which is, to the best of our knowledge, the first report about the determination of AFs in edible oils using HA-based SPE. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy in conjunction with multiway analysis for PAH detection in complex matrices.

PubMed

Nahorniak, Michelle L; Booksh, Karl S

2006-12-01

A field portable, single exposure excitation-emission matrix (EEM) fluorometer has been constructed and used in conjunction with parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) to determine the sub part per billion (ppb) concentrations of several aqueous polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), such as benzo(k)fluoranthene and benzo(a)pyrene, in various matrices including aqueous motor oil extract and asphalt leachate. Multiway methods like PARAFAC are essential to resolve the analyte signature from the ubiquitous background in environmental samples. With multiway data and PARAFAC analysis it is shown that reliable concentration determinations can be achieved with minimal standards in spite of the large convoluting fluorescence background signal. Thus, rapid fieldable EEM analyses may prove to be a good screening method for tracking pollutants and prioritizing sampling and analysis by more complete but time consuming and labor intensive EPA methods.

Effect of Grape Seed Proanthocyanidin-Gelatin Colloidal Complexes on Stability and in Vitro Digestion of Fish Oil Emulsions.

PubMed

Su, Yu-Ru; Tsai, Yi-Chin; Hsu, Chun-Hua; Chao, An-Chong; Lin, Cheng-Wei; Tsai, Min-Lang; Mi, Fwu-Long

2015-11-25

The colloidal complexes composed of grape seed proanthocyanidin (GSP) and gelatin (GLT), as natural antioxidants to improve stability and inhibit lipid oxidation in menhaden fish oil emulsions, were evaluated. The interactions between GSP and GLT, and the chemical structures of GSP/GLT self-assembled colloidal complexes, were characterized by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), circular dichroism (CD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic (FTIR) studies. Fish oil was emulsified with GLT to obtain an oil-in-water (o/w) emulsion. After formation of the emulsion, GLT was fixed by GSP to obtain the GSP/GLT colloidal complexes stabilized fish oil emulsion. Menhaden oil emulsified by GSP/GLT(0.4 wt %) colloidal complexes yielded an emulsion with smaller particles and higher emulsion stability as compared to its GLT emulsified counterpart. The GSP/GLT colloidal complexes inhibited the lipid oxidation in fish oil emulsions more effectively than free GLT because the emulsified fish oil was surrounded by the antioxidant GSP/GLT colloidal complexes. The digestion rate of the fish oil emulsified with the GSP/GLT colloidal complexes was reduced as compared to that emulsified with free GLT. The extent of free fatty acids released from the GSP/GLT complexes stabilized fish oil emulsions was 63.3% under simulated digestion condition, indicating that the fish oil emulsion was considerably hydrolyzed with lipase.

Comparative studies of oil product regulation in polluted soil for several industrialized countries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paccassoni, F.; Kalnina, D.; Piga, L.

2017-10-01

Oil contaminated sites are the consequence of a long period of industrialization. Oil is a complex mixture including aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, which are known to have negative effects on human health and the environment. Dividing oil products in groups (fractions) of petroleum hydrocarbons that act alike in soil and water, one can better know what happens to them. Being able to understand the behaviour of oil products in soil, it will allow to implement prevention and remediation actions. Interventions on contaminated sites are bound to comply with regulatory limits that each country has set in their own environmental legislation. The different concentration thresholds of oil products in soil for several EU countries and Canada has led to compare: limit values, analytical method, soil characteristics and/or land use. This will allow to evaluate what could be the best regulation approach, assessing if it is better to consider soil matrix in the site or the specific land use or both of them. It will also assess what is the best analytical methodology to be adopted to achieve the pollutant concentrations in the soil in order to have comparable results among different countries, such as: Baltic countries (Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania), Nordic countries (Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark), Western countries (Italy and The Netherlands) and Canada, like gaschromatography in the range from C10 - C50. The study presents an overview of environmental regulatory system of several EU countries and Canada and the correlation between different parameters about oil products indicated in each environmental legislation.

On-line Analysis of Nitrogen Containing Compounds in Complex Hydrocarbon Matrixes.

PubMed

Ristic, Nenad D; Djokic, Marko R; Van Geem, Kevin M; Marin, Guy B

2016-08-05

The shift to heavy crude oils and the use of alternative fossil resources such as shale oil are a challenge for the petrochemical industry. The composition of heavy crude oils and shale oils varies substantially depending on the origin of the mixture. In particular they contain an increased amount of nitrogen containing compounds compared to the conventionally used sweet crude oils. As nitrogen compounds have an influence on the operation of thermal processes occurring in coker units and steam crackers, and as some species are considered as environmentally hazardous, a detailed analysis of the reactions involving nitrogen containing compounds under pyrolysis conditions provides valuable information. Therefore a novel method has been developed and validated with a feedstock containing a high nitrogen content, i.e., a shale oil. First, the feed was characterized offline by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC × GC) coupled with a nitrogen chemiluminescence detector (NCD). In a second step the on-line analysis method was developed and tested on a steam cracking pilot plant by feeding pyridine dissolved in heptane. The former being a representative compound for one of the most abundant classes of compounds present in shale oil. The composition of the reactor effluent was determined via an in-house developed automated sampling system followed by immediate injection of the sample on a GC × GC coupled with a time-of-flight mass spectrometer (TOF-MS), flame ionization detector (FID) and NCD. A novel method for quantitative analysis of nitrogen containing compounds using NCD and 2-chloropyridine as an internal standard has been developed and demonstrated.

Rapid determination of hydrophilic phenols in olive oil by vortex-assisted reversed-phase dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction and screen-printed carbon electrodes.

PubMed

Fernández, Elena; Vidal, Lorena; Canals, Antonio

2018-05-01

A novel approach is presented to determine hydrophilic phenols in olive oil samples, employing vortex-assisted reversed-phase dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (RP-DLLME) for sample preparation and screen-printed carbon electrodes for voltammetric analysis. The oxidation of oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, caffeic acid, ferulic acid and tyrosol was investigated, being caffeic acid and tyrosol selected for quantification. A matrix-matching calibration using sunflower oil as analyte-free sample diluted with hexane was employed to compensate matrix effects. Samples were analyzed under optimized RP-DLLME conditions, i.e., extractant phase, 1M HCl; extractant volume, 100µL; extraction time, 2min; centrifugation time, 10min; centrifugation speed, 4000rpm. The working range showed a good linearity between 0.075 and 2.5mgL -1 (r = 0.998, N = 7) for caffeic acid, and between 0.075 and 3mgL -1 (r = 0.999, N = 8) for tyrosol. The methodological limit of detection was empirically established at 0.022mgL -1 for both analytes, which is significantly lower than average contents found in olive oil samples. The repeatability was evaluated at two different spiking levels (i.e., 0.5mgL -1 and 2mgL -1 ) and coefficients of variation ranged from 8% to 11% (n = 5). The applicability of the proposed method was tested in olive oil samples of different quality (i.e., refined olive oil, virgin olive oil and extra virgin olive oil). Relative recoveries varied between 83% and 108% showing negligible matrix effects. Finally, fifteen samples were analyzed by the proposed method and a high correlation with the traditional Folin-Ciocalteu spectrophotometric method was obtained. Thereafter, the concentrations of the fifteen oil samples were employed as input variables in linear discriminant analysis in order to distinguish between olive oils of different quality. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Matlab Geochemistry: An open source geochemistry solver based on MRST

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McNeece, C. J.; Raynaud, X.; Nilsen, H.; Hesse, M. A.

2017-12-01

The study of geological systems often requires the solution of complex geochemical relations. To address this need we present an open source geochemical solver based on the Matlab Reservoir Simulation Toolbox (MRST) developed by SINTEF. The implementation supports non-isothermal multicomponent aqueous complexation, surface complexation, ion exchange, and dissolution/precipitation reactions. The suite of tools available in MRST allows for rapid model development, in particular the incorporation of geochemical calculations into transport simulations of multiple phases, complex domain geometry and geomechanics. Different numerical schemes and additional physics can be easily incorporated into the existing tools through the object-oriented framework employed by MRST. The solver leverages the automatic differentiation tools available in MRST to solve arbitrarily complex geochemical systems with any choice of species or element concentration as input. Four mathematical approaches enable the solver to be quite robust: 1) the choice of chemical elements as the basis components makes all entries in the composition matrix positive thus preserving convexity, 2) a log variable transformation is used which transfers the nonlinearity to the convex composition matrix, 3) a priori bounds on variables are calculated from the structure of the problem, constraining Netwon's path and 4) an initial guess is calculated implicitly by sequentially adding model complexity. As a benchmark we compare the model to experimental and semi-analytic solutions of the coupled salinity-acidity transport system. Together with the reservoir simulation capabilities of MRST the solver offers a promising tool for geochemical simulations in reservoir domains for applications in a diversity of fields from enhanced oil recovery to radionuclide storage.

Investigation of the Matrix Effect on the Accuracy of Quantitative Analysis of Trace Metals in Liquids Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy with Solid Substrates.

PubMed

Xiu, Junshan; Dong, Lili; Qin, Hua; Liu, Yunyan; Yu, Jin

2016-12-01

The detection limit of trace metals in liquids has been improved greatly by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) using solid substrate. A paper substrate and a metallic substrate were used as a solid substrate for the detection of trace metals in aqueous solutions and viscous liquids (lubricating oils) respectively. The matrix effect on quantitative analysis of trace metals in two types of liquids was investigated. For trace metals in aqueous solutions using paper substrate, the calibration curves established for pure solutions and mixed solutions samples presented large variation on both the slope and the intercept for the Cu, Cd, and Cr. The matrix effects among the different elements in mixed solutions were observed. However, good agreement was obtained between the measured and known values in real wastewater. For trace metals in lubricating oils, the matrix effect between the different oils is relatively small and reasonably negligible under the conditions of our experiment. A universal calibration curve can be established for trace metals in different types of oils. The two approaches are verified that it is possible to develop a feasible and sensitive method with accuracy results for rapid detection of trace metals in industrial wastewater and viscous liquids by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy. © The Author(s) 2016.

SOVENT BASED ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY FOR IN-SITU UPGRADING OF HEAVY OIL SANDS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Munroe, Norman

With the depletion of conventional crude oil reserves in the world, heavy oil and bitumen resources have great potential to meet the future demand for petroleum products. However, oil recovery from heavy oil and bitumen reservoirs is much more difficult than that from conventional oil reservoirs. This is mainly because heavy oil or bitumen is partially or completely immobile under reservoir conditions due to its extremely high viscosity, which creates special production challenges. In order to overcome these challenges significant efforts were devoted by Applied Research Center (ARC) at Florida International University and The Center for Energy Economics (CEE) atmore » the University of Texas. A simplified model was developed to assess the density of the upgraded crude depending on the ratio of solvent mass to crude oil mass, temperature, pressure and the properties of the crude oil. The simplified model incorporated the interaction dynamics into a homogeneous, porous heavy oil reservoir to simulate the dispersion and concentration of injected CO2. The model also incorporated the characteristic of a highly varying CO2 density near the critical point. Since the major challenge in heavy oil recovery is its high viscosity, most researchers have focused their investigations on this parameter in the laboratory as well as in the field resulting in disparaging results. This was attributed to oil being a complex poly-disperse blend of light and heavy paraffins, aromatics, resins and asphaltenes, which have diverse behaviors at reservoir temperature and pressures. The situation is exacerbated by a dearth of experimental data on gas diffusion coefficients in heavy oils due to the tedious nature of diffusivity measurements. Ultimately, the viscosity and thus oil recovery is regulated by pressure and its effect on the diffusion coefficient and oil swelling factors. The generation of a new phase within the crude and the differences in mobility between the new crude matrix and the precipitate readily enables removal of asphaltenes. Thus, an upgraded crude low in heavy metal, sulfur and nitrogen is more conducive for further purification.« less

Distribution of Oil in a PP/EPDM Thermoplastic Elastomer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kikuchi, Yutaka; Okada, Tetsuo; Inoue, Takashi

Distribution of oil in a commercial PP(polypropylene)/EPDM(ethylene-propyrene-diene rubber) thermoplastic elastomer was analyzed by light scattering. It was shown that the oil preferentially stays in EPDM particles at low temperatures and it migrates to PP matrix at high temperatures. That is, the oil is expected to play a dual role; softener at ambient temperature and plasticizer at processing temperature. The temperature dependence of oil distribution was nicely interpreted by a thermodynamic discussion.

New antibody and immunoassay pretreatment strategy to screen polychlorinated biphenyls in Korean transformer oil.

PubMed

Terakado, Shingo; Ohmura, Naoya; Park, Seok-Un; Lee, Seung-Min; Glass, Thomas R

2013-01-01

Development and modifications are described that expand the application of an immunoassay from the detection of Kanechlors (Japanese technical PCBs mixtures) to the detection of Aroclors (U. S. technical PCB mixtures, used in Korea) in contaminated Korean transformer oil. The first necessary modification was the development of a new antibody with a reactivity profile favorable for Aroclors. The second modification was the addition of a second column to the solid-phase extraction method to reduce assay interference caused by the Korean oil matrix. The matrix interference is suspected to be caused by the presence of synthetic oils (or similar materials) present as contaminants. The modified assay was validated by comparison to high-resolution gas chromatography/high-resolution mass spectrometry analysis, and was shown to be tolerant of up to 10% of several common synthetic insulating oils. Finally the screening performance of the modified assay was evaluated using 500 used transformer oil samples of Korean origin, and was shown to have good performance in terms of false positive and false negative rates. This report provides evidence for the first establishment of immunoassay screening for Aroclor based PCB contamination in Korean transformer oil.

Fate of LCFA in the co-digestion of cow manure, food waste and discontinuous addition of oil.

PubMed

Neves, L; Oliveira, R; Alves, M M

2009-12-01

Different concentrations of oily waste were added in a discontinuous mode and recurrently to anaerobic continuous stirred tank reactors fed with cow manure and food waste. Four continuous stirred tank reactors were run in parallel. A control reactor (R1) received no additional oil and R2, R3 and R4 received increasing concentrations of oil in two different experimental approaches. First, the lipids composition was forced to change suddenly, in three moments, without changing the total chemical oxygen demand (COD) fed to the reactors. The only long chain fatty acid (LCFA) detected onto the R1 solid matrix was palmitic acid (C16:0). Nevertheless in the solid matrix of R2, R3 and R4C16:0 and stearic acid were detected. For occasional increase in the oil concentration up to 7.7gCOD(oil)/L(reactor) (55% Oil(COD)/Total(COD)) no statistical differences were detected between the reactors, in terms of methane production, effluent soluble COD, effluent volatile fatty acids and total and volatile solids removal. Therefore this experiment allowed to conclude that cow manure-food waste co-digestion presents sufficient buffer capacity to endure solid-associated LCFA concentration up to 20-25gCOD-LCFA/kgTS. In a second experiment higher concentrations of oil were added, raising occasionally the concentration in the reactors to 9, 12, 15 and 18gCOD(oil)/L(reactor). All pulses had a positive effect in methane production, with the exception of the highest oil pulse concentration, that persistently impaired the reactor performance. This experiment demonstrates that threshold values for LCFA and C16:0 accumulation onto the solid matrix, of about 180-220gCOD-LCFA/kgTS and 120-150gCOD-C16:0/kgTS, should not be surpassed in order to prevent persistent reactor failure, as occurs in some full scale co-digestion plants.

Network succession reveals the importance of competition in response to emulsified vegetable oil amendment for uranium bioremediation.

PubMed

Deng, Ye; Zhang, Ping; Qin, Yujia; Tu, Qichao; Yang, Yunfeng; He, Zhili; Schadt, Christopher Warren; Zhou, Jizhong

2016-01-01

Discerning network interactions among different species/populations in microbial communities has evoked substantial interests in recent years, but little information is available about temporal dynamics of microbial network interactions in response to environmental perturbations. Here, we modified the random matrix theory-based network approach to discern network succession in groundwater microbial communities in response to emulsified vegetable oil (EVO) amendment for uranium bioremediation. Groundwater microbial communities from one control and seven monitor wells were analysed with a functional gene array (GeoChip 3.0), and functional molecular ecological networks (fMENs) at different time points were reconstructed. Our results showed that the network interactions were dramatically altered by EVO amendment. Dynamic and resilient succession was evident: fairly simple at the initial stage (Day 0), increasingly complex at the middle period (Days 4, 17, 31), most complex at Day 80, and then decreasingly complex at a later stage (140-269 days). Unlike previous studies in other habitats, negative interactions predominated in a time-series fMEN, suggesting strong competition among different microbial species in the groundwater systems after EVO injection. Particularly, several keystone sulfate-reducing bacteria showed strong negative interactions with their network neighbours. These results provide mechanistic understanding of the decreased phylogenetic diversity during environmental perturbations. © 2015 Society for Applied Microbiology and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Network succession reveals the importance of competition in response to emulsified vegetable oil amendment for uranium bioremediation: Competition in bioremediation system

DOE PAGES

Deng, Ye; Zhang, Ping; Qin, Yujia; ...

2015-08-11

When trying to discern network interactions among different species/populations in microbial communities interests have been evoked in recent years, but little information is available about temporal dynamics of microbial network interactions in response to environmental perturbations. We modified the random matrix theory-based network approach to discern network succession in groundwater microbial communities in response to emulsified vegetable oil (EVO) amendment for uranium bioremediation. Groundwater microbial communities from one control and seven monitor wells were analysed with a functional gene array (GeoChip 3.0), and functional molecular ecological networks (fMENs) at different time points were reconstructed. Our results showed that the networkmore » interactions were dramatically altered by EVO amendment. Dynamic and resilient succession was evident: fairly simple at the initial stage (Day 0), increasingly complex at the middle period (Days 4, 17, 31), most complex at Day 80, and then decreasingly complex at a later stage (140–269 days). Unlike previous studies in other habitats, negative interactions predominated in a time-series fMEN, suggesting strong competition among different microbial species in the groundwater systems after EVO injection. In particular, several keystone sulfate-reducing bacteria showed strong negative interactions with their network neighbours. These results provide mechanistic understanding of the decreased phylogenetic diversity during environmental perturbations.« less

Comparison of the volatile constituents in cold-pressed bergamot oil and a volatile oil isolated by vacuum distillation.

PubMed

Belsito, Emilia L; Carbone, Concetta; Di Gioia, Maria L; Leggio, Antonella; Liguori, Angelo; Perri, Francesca; Siciliano, Carlo; Viscomi, Maria C

2007-09-19

The vacuum distillation of bergamot peels furnishes a high-quality essential oil that is totally bergapten-free. This oil was compared with that produced by distillation of cold-pressed oils and those commercially available. The oil obtained by vacuum distillation of the bergamot vegetable matrix shows a composition quite similar to that of the cold-pressed oil. It also displays qualitative characteristics that are superior with respect to those normally observed for essential oils isolated by distillation of cold-pressed oils. Oils isolated by the method presented here can constitute ideal candidates in producing foods, for example, Earl Grey tea, and cosmetic preparations.

Production, Characterization, and Stability of Orange or Eucalyptus Essential Oil/β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex.

PubMed

Kringel, Dianini Hüttner; Antunes, Mariana Dias; Klein, Bruna; Crizel, Rosane Lopes; Wagner, Roger; de Oliveira, Roberto Pedroso; Dias, Alvaro Renato Guerra; Zavareze, Elessandra da Rosa

2017-11-01

The aim of this study was to produce and characterize inclusion complexes (IC) between β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and orange essential oil (OEO) or eucalyptus essential oil (EEO), and to compare these with their pure compounds and physical mixtures. The samples were evaluated by chemical composition, morphology, thermal stability, and volatile compounds by static headspace-gas chromatography (SH-GC). Comparing the free essential oil and physical mixture with the inclusion complex, of both essential oils (OEO and EEO), it was observed differences occurred in the chemical composition, thermal stability, and morphology. These differences show that there was the formation of the inclusion complex and demonstrate the necessity of the precipitation method used to guarantee the interaction between β-CD and essential oils. The slow loss of the volatile compounds from both essential oils, when complexed with β-CD, showed a higher stability when compared with their physical mixtures and free essential oils. Therefore, the results showed that the chemical composition, molecular size, and structure of the essential oils influence the characteristics of the inclusion complexes. The application of the β-CD in the formation of inclusion complexes with essential oils can expand the potential applications in foods. © 2017 Institute of Food Technologists®.

Response surface methodology as an approach to determine optimal activities of lipase entrapped in sol-gel matrix using different vegetable oils.

PubMed

Pinheiro, Rubiane C; Soares, Cleide M F; de Castro, Heizir F; Moraes, Flavio F; Zanin, Gisella M

2008-03-01

The conditions for maximization of the enzymatic activity of lipase entrapped in sol-gel matrix were determined for different vegetable oils using an experimental design. The effects of pH, temperature, and biocatalyst loading on lipase activity were verified using a central composite experimental design leading to a set of 13 assays and the surface response analysis. For canola oil and entrapped lipase, statistical analyses showed significant effects for pH and temperature and also the interactions between pH and temperature and temperature and biocatalyst loading. For the olive oil and entrapped lipase, it was verified that the pH was the only variable statistically significant. This study demonstrated that response surface analysis is a methodology appropriate for the maximization of the percentage of hydrolysis, as a function of pH, temperature, and lipase loading.

Multi-scale Multi-dimensional Imaging and Characterization of Oil Shale Pyrolysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Y.; Saif, T.; Lin, Q.; Al-Khulaifi, Y.; Blunt, M. J.; Bijeljic, B.

2017-12-01

The microstructural evaluation of fine grained rocks is challenging which demands the use of several complementary methods. Oil shale, a fine-grained organic-rich sedimentary rock, represents a large and mostly untapped unconventional hydrocarbon resource with global reserves estimated at 4.8 trillion barrels. The largest known deposit is the Eocene Green River Formation in Western Colorado, Eastern Utah, and Southern Wyoming. An improved insight into the mineralogy, organic matter distribution and pore network structure before, during and after oil shale pyrolysis is critical to understanding hydrocarbon flow behaviour and improving recovery. In this study, we image Mahogany zone oil shale samples in two dimensions (2-D) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and in three dimensions (3-D) using focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM), laboratory-based X-ray micro-tomography (µCT) and synchrotron X-ray µCT to reveal a complex and variable fine grained microstructure dominated by organic-rich parallel laminations which are tightly bound in a highly calcareous and heterogeneous mineral matrix. We report the results of a detailed µCT study of the Mahogany oil shale with increasing pyrolysis temperature. The physical transformation of the internal microstructure and evolution of pore space during the thermal conversion of kerogen in oil shale to produce hydrocarbon products was characterized. The 3-D volumes of pyrolyzed oil shale were reconstructed and image processed to visualize and quantify the volume and connectivity of the pore space. The results show a significant increase in anisotropic porosity associated with pyrolysis between 300-500°C with the formation of micron-scale connected pore channels developing principally along the kerogen-rich lamellar structures.

Dietary treatments enriched in olive and safflower oils regulate seric and placental matrix metalloproteinases in maternal diabetes.

PubMed

Martinez, N; Sosa, M; Higa, R; Fornes, D; Capobianco, E; Jawerbaum, A

2012-01-01

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteolytic enzymes involved in placental development and function, although related to the pro-inflammatory environment when produced in excess. Previous studies have identified MMP-2 and MMP-9 overactivities in the placenta from diabetic rats. In this study, we aimed to determine whether diets supplemented with olive and safflower oil, enriched in natural PPAR ligands, are able to regulate MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities in the placenta and serum from diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in rat neonates by streptozotocin administration (90mg/kg s.c.). Control and diabetic rats were fed with 6% olive oil- or 6% safflower oil-supplemented diets from days 0.5-13.5 of gestation. On day 13.5 of gestation, placentas and sera were isolated for further determination of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 2 and 9 activities by zymography. Placental MMP-2 and MMP-9 protein concentration and immunolocalization were also determined. Sera from diabetic pregnant animals showed MMP-2 and MMP-9 overactivities when compared to controls. Serum MMP-9 activity was significantly decreased when the diabetic animals received the olive and safflower oil dietary treatments. Placentas from diabetic rats showed increased MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities and protein concentrations, and both were decreased when diabetic rats received the olive and safflower dietary treatments. This study demonstrates that both olive and safflower oil-supplemented diets were able to prevent MMPs overactivities in the placenta from diabetic rats, and that these beneficial effects are reflected in rat sera. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An oil spill decision matrix in response to surface spills of various bitumen blends.

PubMed

King, Thomas L; Robinson, Brian; Cui, Fangda; Boufadel, Michel; Lee, Kenneth; Clyburne, Jason A C

2017-07-19

Canada's production, transport, and sale of diluted bitumen (dilbit) products are expected to increase by a million barrels per day over the next decade. The anticipated growth in oil production and transport increases the risk of oil spills in aquatic areas and places greater demands on oil spill capabilities to respond to spills, which have raised stakeholder concerns. Current oil spill models only predict the transport of bitumen blends that are used in contingency plans and oil spill response strategies, rather than changes in the oil's physical properties that are relevant to spill response. We conducted weathering studies of five oil products (two conventional oils and three bitumen blends) in the Department of Fisheries and Oceans' flume tank. We also considered two initial oil slick thicknesses, 4.0 mm and 7.0 mm. We found that there is a major difference in the time evolution of oil properties (density and viscosity), raising doubts on weathering models that do not consider the thickness of oil. We also developed empirical expressions for the evolution of the density and viscosity of these oil products. The findings from the 4.0 mm results were incorporated with data from the literature to provide an update on the factors to consider during the decision making for spills of diluted bitumen products. The matrix indicated that most response options, including chemical dispersants, work much more effectively within 48 hours of the initiation of weathering. After this window of opportunity closes, natural attenuation or in situ burning is the only option remaining, but containment of oil is a limiting factor for in situ burning.

Enhancement of Hydrodynamic Processes in Oil Pipelines Considering Rheologically Complex High-Viscosity Oils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konakhina, I. A.; Khusnutdinova, E. M.; Khamidullina, G. R.; Khamidullina, A. F.

2016-06-01

This paper describes a mathematical model of flow-related hydrodynamic processes for rheologically complex high-viscosity bitumen oil and oil-water suspensions and presents methods to improve the design and performance of oil pipelines.

Incorporating Zataria multiflora Boiss. essential oil and sodium bentonite nano-clay open a new perspective to use zein films as bioactive packaging materials.

PubMed

Kashiri, Mahboobeh; Maghsoudlo, Yahya; Khomeiri, Morteza

2017-10-01

Active zein films with different levels of Zataria multiflora Boiss. essential oil were produced successfully. To enhance properties of this biopolymer for food packaging applications, sodium bentonite clay was used at two levels (2 and 4%). The results indicated that the addition of Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil caused a reduction in tensile strength and Young's modulus and slight increase in the percent of elongation at break of the films. Maximum solubility in water and water vapor permeability was observed by incorporation of 10% Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil in the zein matrix. Transmission electron microscopy micrographs of zein film were verified by the exfoliation of the layers of sodium bentonite clay in the zein matrix. Stronger films with lower water vapor permeability and water solubility were evident of good distribution of sodium bentonite clay in the zein matrix. According to the results, 2% sodium bentonite clay was selected for evaluation of nano active film properties. Water vapor permeability, UV light barrier, tensile strength, and Young's modulus values of active films were improved by incorporation of 2% sodium bentonite clay. The antibacterial activity of different contents of Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil in vapor phase demonstrated that use of Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil in the liquid phase was more effective than in vapor phase. The antibacterial zein-based films showed that active zein film with 5 and 10% Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil had reductions of 1.68 log and 2.99 log, respectively, against Listeria monocytogenes and 1.39 and 3.07 log against Escherichia coli. Nano active zein film containing 10% Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil and 2% sodium bentonite clay showed better antibacterial properties against L. monocytogenes (3.23 log) and E. coli (3.17 log).

Antioxidant Properties of Aqueous Extract of Roasted Hulled Barley in Bulk Oil or Oil-in-Water Emulsion Matrix.

PubMed

Oh, Sumi; Kim, Mi-Ja; Park, Kye Won; Lee, Jae Hwan

2015-11-01

Antioxidant properties of the aqueous extracts of hulled barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) that had been roasted at 210 °C for 20 min were determined in bulk oil and oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. Bulk oils were heated at 60, 100, and 180 °C, and O/W emulsions were oxidized under riboflavin photosensitization. The content of phenolic compounds was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography, and in vitro antioxidant assays were also conducted. The major phenolics contained in the aqueous extract of roasted hulled barley (AERB) were p-coumaric, ferulic, protocatechuic, chlorogenic, 4-hydroxybenzoic, and vanillic acids. Depending on the concentration and oxidation temperature, AERB had antioxidant or prooxidant properties in bulk oil. At 60 °C, AERB at a concentration of 0.5% acted as a prooxidant, whereas at 1.0% it acted as an antioxidant. At 100 °C, AERB acted as an antioxidant irrespective of concentration. In 180 °C conditions, 0.5% AERB acted as a prooxidant, whereas other concentrations of AERB acted as antioxidants. In the case of riboflavin photosensitized O/W emulsions, AERB showed antioxidant properties irrespective of concentration. Antioxidant abilities of AERB are affected by the food matrix, including bulk oil and O/W emulsions, and concentrations of AERB, even though diverse phenolic compounds may display high antioxidant properties in in vitro assays. Roasted barley has been widely used as a tea ingredient in East Asian countries such as Korea, China, and Japan. The highly antioxidative properties of the aqueous extracts of roasted barley have been confirmed in bulk oil and O/W emulsions as well as in vitro assays because of the presence of phenolic compounds. The results of this study can contribute to the development of antioxidant-rich beverages using roasted barley by aiding in the selection of proper food matrix-containing extracts of high phenolic compounds, as well as by expanding consumers’ choices for healthy beverages. © 2015 Institute of Food Technologists®

Network Vulnerability Assessment of the U.S. Crude Pipeline Infrastructure

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

56 Clanton, “Oklahoma Oil Hub Helps Keep Oil Prices from Going Higher.” 57 Donald Furgeson, John Mahoney , and Brett Warfield...Vulnerability Assessment Matrix of the COTH.58 58 Furgeson, Mahoney , and Warfield, Security...Steinhäusler et al., “Security Risks to the Oil and Gas Industry: Terrorist Capabilities.” 71 Furgeson, Mahoney , and Warfield, Security Vulnerability

Evaluation for Bearing Wear States Based on Online Oil Multi-Parameters Monitoring

PubMed Central

Hu, Hai-Feng

2018-01-01

As bearings are critical components of a mechanical system, it is important to characterize their wear states and evaluate health conditions. In this paper, a novel approach for analyzing the relationship between online oil multi-parameter monitoring samples and bearing wear states has been proposed based on an improved gray k-means clustering model (G-KCM). First, an online monitoring system with multiple sensors for bearings is established, obtaining oil multi-parameter data and vibration signals for bearings through the whole lifetime. Secondly, a gray correlation degree distance matrix is generated using a gray correlation model (GCM) to express the relationship of oil monitoring samples at different times and then a KCM is applied to cluster the matrix. Analysis and experimental results show that there is an obvious correspondence that state changing coincides basically in time between the lubricants’ multi-parameters and the bearings’ wear states. It also has shown that online oil samples with multi-parameters have early wear failure prediction ability for bearings superior to vibration signals. It is expected to realize online oil monitoring and evaluation for bearing health condition and to provide a novel approach for early identification of bearing-related failure modes. PMID:29621175

Evaluation for Bearing Wear States Based on Online Oil Multi-Parameters Monitoring.

PubMed

Wang, Si-Yuan; Yang, Ding-Xin; Hu, Hai-Feng

2018-04-05

As bearings are critical components of a mechanical system, it is important to characterize their wear states and evaluate health conditions. In this paper, a novel approach for analyzing the relationship between online oil multi-parameter monitoring samples and bearing wear states has been proposed based on an improved gray k-means clustering model (G-KCM). First, an online monitoring system with multiple sensors for bearings is established, obtaining oil multi-parameter data and vibration signals for bearings through the whole lifetime. Secondly, a gray correlation degree distance matrix is generated using a gray correlation model (GCM) to express the relationship of oil monitoring samples at different times and then a KCM is applied to cluster the matrix. Analysis and experimental results show that there is an obvious correspondence that state changing coincides basically in time between the lubricants' multi-parameters and the bearings' wear states. It also has shown that online oil samples with multi-parameters have early wear failure prediction ability for bearings superior to vibration signals. It is expected to realize online oil monitoring and evaluation for bearing health condition and to provide a novel approach for early identification of bearing-related failure modes.

A neural network detection model of spilled oil based on the texture analysis of SAR image

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Jubai; Zhu, Lisong

2006-01-01

A Radial Basis Function Neural Network (RBFNN) Model is investigated for the detection of spilled oil based on the texture analysis of SAR imagery. In this paper, to take the advantage of the abundant texture information of SAR imagery, the texture features are extracted by both wavelet transform and the Gray Level Co-occurrence matrix. The RBFNN Model is fed with a vector of these texture features. The RBFNN Model is trained and tested by the sample data set of the feature vectors. Finally, a SAR image is classified by this model. The classification results of a spilled oil SAR image show that the classification accuracy for oil spill is 86.2 by the RBFNN Model using both wavelet texture and gray texture, while the classification accuracy for oil spill is 78.0 by same RBFNN Model using only wavelet texture as the input of this RBFNN model. The model using both wavelet transform and the Gray Level Co-occurrence matrix is more effective than that only using wavelet texture. Furthermore, it keeps the complicated proximity and has a good performance of classification.

Matrix management in hospitals: testing theories of matrix structure and development.

PubMed

Burns, L R

1989-09-01

A study of 315 hospitals with matrix management programs was used to test several hypotheses concerning matrix management advanced by earlier theorists. The study verifies that matrix management involves several distinctive elements that can be scaled to form increasingly complex types of lateral coordinative devices. The scalability of these elements is evident only cross-sectionally. The results show that matrix complexity is not an outcome of program age, nor does matrix complexity at the time of implementation appear to influence program survival. Matrix complexity, finally, is not determined by the organization's task diversity and uncertainty. The results suggest several modifications in prevailing theories of matrix organization.

21 CFR 73.3110 - Chlorophyllin-copper complex, oil soluble.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... oil, peanut oil, and hydrogenated peanut oil), may be safely used to color polymethylmethacrylate bone... the bone cement. (2) Authorization for this use shall not be construed as waiving any of the... the polymethylmethacrylate bone cement in which chlorophyllin-copper complex, oil soluble, is used. (d...

21 CFR 73.3110 - Chlorophyllin-copper complex, oil soluble.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... oil, peanut oil, and hydrogenated peanut oil), may be safely used to color polymethylmethacrylate bone... the bone cement. (2) Authorization for this use shall not be construed as waiving any of the... the polymethylmethacrylate bone cement in which chlorophyllin-copper complex, oil soluble, is used. (d...

21 CFR 73.3110 - Chlorophyllin-copper complex, oil soluble.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... oil, peanut oil, and hydrogenated peanut oil), may be safely used to color polymethylmethacrylate bone... the bone cement. (2) Authorization for this use shall not be construed as waiving any of the... the polymethylmethacrylate bone cement in which chlorophyllin-copper complex, oil soluble, is used. (d...

21 CFR 73.3110 - Chlorophyllin-copper complex, oil soluble.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... oil, peanut oil, and hydrogenated peanut oil), may be safely used to color polymethylmethacrylate bone... the bone cement. (2) Authorization for this use shall not be construed as waiving any of the... the polymethylmethacrylate bone cement in which chlorophyllin-copper complex, oil soluble, is used. (d...

21 CFR 73.3110 - Chlorophyllin-copper complex, oil soluble.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... oil, peanut oil, and hydrogenated peanut oil), may be safely used to color polymethylmethacrylate bone... the bone cement. (2) Authorization for this use shall not be construed as waiving any of the... the polymethylmethacrylate bone cement in which chlorophyllin-copper complex, oil soluble, is used. (d...

A reversed-phase compatible thin-layer chromatography autography for the detection of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.

PubMed

Ramallo, I Ayelen; García, Paula; Furlan, Ricardo L E

2015-11-01

A dual readout autographic assay to detect acetylcholinesterase inhibitors present in complex matrices adsorbed on reversed-phase or normal-phase thin-layer chromatography plates is described. Enzyme gel entrapment with an amphiphilic copolymer was used for assay development. The effects of substrate and enzyme concentrations, pH, incubation time, and incubation temperature on the sensitivity and the detection limit of the assay were evaluated. Experimental design and response surface methodology were used to optimize conditions with a minimum number of experiments. The assay allowed the detection of 0.01% w/w of physostigmine in both a spiked Sonchus oleraceus L. extract chromatographed on normal phase and a spiked Pimenta racemosa (Mill.) J.W. Moore leaf essential oil chromatographed on reversed phase. Finally, the reversed-phase thin-layer chromatography assay was applied to reveal the presence of an inhibitor in the Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf essential oil. The developed assay is able to detect acetylcholinesterase inhibitors present in complex matrixes that were chromatographed in normal phase or reversed-phase thin-layer chromatography. The detection limit for physostigmine on both normal and reversed phase was of 1×10(-4) μg. The results can be read by a change in color and/or a change in fluorescence. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Natural oils as skin permeation enhancers for transdermal delivery of olanzapine: in vitro and in vivo evaluation.

PubMed

Aggarwal, Geeta; Dhawan, Sanju; HariKumar, S L

2012-03-01

The feasibility of development of transdermal delivery system of olanzapine utilizing natural oils as permeation enhancers was investigated. Penetration enhancing potential of corn (maize) oil, groundnut oil and jojoba oil on in vitro permeation of olanzapine across rat skin was studied. The magnitude of flux enhancement factor with corn oil, groundnut oil and jojoba oil was 7.06, 5.31 and 1.9 respectively at 5mg/ml concentration in solvent system. On the basis of in vitro permeation studies, eudragit based matrix type transdermal patches of olanzapine were fabricated using optimized concentrations of natural oils as permeation enhancers. All transdermal patches were found to be uniform with respect to physical characteristics. The interaction studies carried out by comparing the results of ultraviolet, HPLC and FTIR analyses for the pure drug, polymers and mixture of drug and polymers indicated no chemical interaction between the drug and excipients. Corn oil containing unsaturated fatty acids was found to be promising natural permeation enhancer for transdermal delivery of olanzapine with greatest cumulative amount of drug permeated (1010.68 μg/cm²/h) up to 24 h and caused no skin irritation. The fabricated transdermal patches were found to be stable. The pharmacokinetic characteristics of the final optimized matrix patch (T2) were determined after transdermal application to rabbits. The calculated relative bioavailability of TDDS was 113.6 % as compared to oral administration of olanzapine. The therapeutic effectiveness of optimized transdermal system was confirmed by tranquillizing activity in rotarod and grip mice model.

Isolation and characterization of hydrophobic compounds from carbohydrate matrix of Pistacia atlantica.

PubMed

Samavati, Vahid; Adeli, Mostafa

2014-01-30

The present work is focused on the optimization of hydrophobic compounds extraction process from the carbohydrate matrix of Iranian Pistacia atlantica seed at laboratory level using ultrasonic-assisted extraction. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize oil seed extraction yield. Independent variables were extraction temperature (30, 45, 60, 75 and 90°C), extraction time (10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 min) and power of ultrasonic (20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 W). A second order polynomial equation was used to express the oil extraction yield as a function of independent variables. The responses and variables were fitted well to each other by multiple regressions. The optimum extraction conditions were as follows: extraction temperature of 75°C, extraction time of 25 min, and power of ultrasonic of 80 W. A comparison between seed oil composition extracted by ultrasonic waves under the optimum operating conditions determined by RSM for oil yield and by organic solvent was reported. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Deformation Bands in an Exhumed Oil Reservoir, Corona del Mar, California, USA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sample, J.; Woods, S.; Bender, E.; Loveall, M.

2002-12-01

Deformation bands in coarse-grained sandstones are commonly narrow zones of reduced porosity that restrict migration of fluids. Deformation bands are known from core observations and outcrop studies, but we present for the first time results from an exhumed oil reservoir. The deformation bands occur in a poorly consolidated, oil-bearing sandstone of the Miocene Monterey Formation, within the active, right-slip Newport-Inglewood fault zone (NIFZ). The deformation bands crop out as resistant ribs and fins in a very coarse-grained sandstone comprising mainly quartz and feldspar detritus. Deformation bands strike 323°, similar to the NIFZ, and dip variably (N = 113). There are three clusters of dips within the main set: 88NE, 60NE, and 47SW. A fourth cluster has an orientation of 353 °, 70W. Although the kinematic history is complex, steep bands generally are youngest. Deformation bands exhibit both normal and right-slip separations, but net slip was rarely possible to determine. The deformation bands are closely spaced. They formed by porosity reduction and locally cataclasis. Most deformation bands are oil-free, indicating formation before oil migration, and that they were barriers to flow. There are at least two modes of oil-bearing bands: 1) bands with oil in pore spaces; and 2) bands containing oil in small open pockets, especially lining the edges of bands. Case 1 suggests that porosity reduction did not completely preclude oil penetration or that at least some band formation occurred after oil migration. Case 2 is consistent with reactivation of bands as tensional features, perhaps late in the evolution of the reservoir. Other evidence for late-stage tensional deformation during oil migration includes the presence of young sandstone dikes and bitumen veins up to 7 cm in width lined with euhedral quartz. The relationships observed at Corona del Mar are generally consistent with deformation bands acting as barriers to flow, but clearly deformation bands can be reactivated as fluid conduits. This is probably due to differences in mechanical strength between bands and the surrounding sandstone matrix, focusing tensional failure at deformation band boundaries.

Rapid discrimination of bergamot essential oil by paper spray mass spectrometry and chemometric analysis.

PubMed

Taverna, Domenico; Di Donna, Leonardo; Mazzotti, Fabio; Tagarelli, Antonio; Napoli, Anna; Furia, Emilia; Sindona, Giovanni

2016-09-01

A novel approach for the rapid discrimination of bergamot essential oil from other citrus fruits oils is presented. The method was developed using paper spray mass spectrometry (PS-MS) allowing for a rapid molecular profiling coupled with a statistic tool for a precise and reliable discrimination between the bergamot complex matrix and other similar matrices, commonly used for its reconstitution. Ambient mass spectrometry possesses the ability to record mass spectra of ordinary samples, in their native environment, without sample preparation or pre-separation by creating ions outside the instrument. The present study reports a PS-MS method for the determination of oxygen heterocyclic compounds such as furocoumarins, psoralens and flavonoids present in the non-volatile fraction of citrus fruits essential oils followed by chemometric analysis. The volatile fraction of Bergamot is one of the most known and fashionable natural products, which found applications in flavoring industry as ingredient in beverages and flavored foodstuff. The development of the presented method employed bergamot, sweet orange, orange, cedar, grapefruit and mandarin essential oils. PS-MS measurements were carried out in full scan mode for a total run time of 2 min. The capability of PS-MS profiling to act as marker for the classification of bergamot essential oils was evaluated by using multivariate statistical analysis. Two pattern recognition techniques, linear discriminant analysis and soft independent modeling of class analogy, were applied to MS data. The cross-validation procedure has shown excellent results in terms of the prediction ability because both models have correctly classified all samples for each category. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Effect of leachability on environmental risk assessment for naturally occurring radioactive materials in petroleum oil fields.

PubMed

Rajaretnam, G; Spitz, H B

2000-02-01

Elevated concentrations of naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM), including 238U, 232Th, and their progeny found in underground geologic deposits, are often encountered during crude oil recovery. Radium, the predominant radionuclide brought to the surface with the crude oil and produced water, co-precipitates with barium in the form of complex compounds of sulfates, carbonates, and silicates found in sludge and scale. These NORM deposits are highly stable and very insoluble under ambient conditions at the earth's surface. However, the co-precipitated radium matrix is not thermodynamically stable at reducing conditions which may enable a fraction of the radium to eventually be released to the environment. Although the fate of radium in uranium mill tailings has been studied extensively, the leachability of radium from crude oil NORM deposits exposed to acid-rain and other aging processes is generally unknown. The leachability of radium from NORM contaminated soil collected at a contaminated oil field in eastern Kentucky was determined using extraction fluids having wide range of pH reflecting different extreme environmental conditions. The average 226Ra concentration in the samples of soil subjected to leachability testing was 32.56 Bq g(-1) +/- 0.34 Bq g(-1). The average leaching potential of 226Ra observed in these NORM contaminated soil samples was 1.3% +/- 0.46% and was independent of the extraction fluid. Risk assessment calculations using the family farm scenario show that the annual dose to a person living and working on this NORM contaminated soil is mainly due to external gamma exposure and radon inhalation. However, waterborne pathways make a non-negligible contribution to the dose for the actual resident families living on farmland with the type of residual NORM contamination due to crude oil recovery operations.

Influence des melanges complexes organiques sur le sort des dioxines et furanes: Implications dans le developpement de facteurs de caracterisation en analyse du cycle de vie

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taing, Eric

The environmental fate of dioxins and furans, or polychlorodibenzo-p-dioxins and -furans (PCDD/Fs), leaching from wood poles treated with pentachlorophenol (PCP) oil is modified by the presence of oil. Interactions between co-contaminants, which also exist for other pollutants within the mixtures, were shown in the specific context of risk analysis, but have never been taken into account for the generic context of life cycle assessment (LCA). This decision-making tool relies on characterization factors (CF) to estimate the potential impacts of an emitted amount of a pollutant in different impact categories such as aquatic ecotoxicity and human toxicity. For these two impact categories, CFs are calculated from a cause-effect chain that models the environmental fate, exposure and effects of the pollutant (represented by a matrix of fate FF, exposure XF and effect EF, respectively), meaning that a modification of PCDD/Fs fate induces a change in PCDD/Fs CFs. The research question is therefore as follows: In life cycle impact assessment (LCIA), to what extent would the potential impacts of PCDD/Fs on aquatic ecotoxicity and human toxicity change when taking into account the influence of a complex organic mixture on PCDD/Fs fate?. Thus, the main objective is to develop CFs of PCDD/Fs when their fate is influenced by PCP oil and compare them with the CFs of PCDD/Fs without oil for the aquatic ecotoxicity and human toxicity impact categories. A mathematic approach is established to determine the new environmental distribution of PCDD/Fs in the presence of oil and a new FF' matrix is calculated from this new distribution to obtain new CFs' integrating oil influence. FF' and CF' are then compared to FF and CF of PCDD/Fs without the oil. Finally, potential (eco)toxic impacts of the PCDD/F Canadian emissions are calculated with the new CFs' of PCDD/Fs in presence of oil. By only focusing on the results for an emission into air, freshwater and natural soil on a continental scale, the overall elimination fractions of 2,3,7,8-TCDD changed significantly. For the three emissions, organic fractions increased the overall elimination fraction of 2,3,7,8-TCDD into the continental air compartment, induced by a higher volatility of organic fractions than 2,3,7,8-TCDD: for an emission into continental air, organic fractions increased the overall elimination fraction of 2,3,7,8-TCDD in the continental air from 29% to 49% at most. For an emission into continental freshwater, 2,3,7,8-TCDD fate was mainly influenced by two groups of organic fractions: the lightest ones that volatilize into continental air (overall elimination fraction of 2,3,7,8-TCDD increasing from 2% to 35%) and the heaviest ones that are removed by sedimentation (DTCDD,fwC,fwC from 87% up to 96%). Therefore, an approach has been proposed to represent the carrier behaviour of the oil for PCDD/Fs. PCDD/F potential impacts in aquatic ecotoxicity and human toxicity change in a range up to two orders of magnitude depending on the emitting compartment (except for the seawater and ocean compartments). As 2,3,7,8-TCDD is one of the most toxic pollutant, this changing is significant in LCA. To assess the validity of the model's result, it is recommended to carry out laboratory experiments on the PCDD/F volatilization with oil. In addition, it could be interesting to integrate the influence of PCP on PCDD/Fs fate and, more broadly, the influence of all cocontaminants on PCDD/Fs exposure and effects. Moreover having a unique CFeco and CF tox via a weighting of the 17 CF'eco and the 17 CF' tox, respectively, is necessary for a use in LCA. Unfortunately the variability of the composition makes the weighting difficult, so it is suggested to calculate the mean CF'eco and CF'tox. Finally this research could be carried out on other pollutants whose fate is known to be modified by a complex organic mixture in an effort to ensure that impact characterization better reflects reality. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

Matrix isolation studies of hydrogen bonding - An historical perspective

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barnes, Austin J.

2018-07-01

An historical introduction sets matrix isolation in perspective with other spectroscopic techniques for studying hydrogen-bonded complexes. This is followed by detailed accounts of various aspects of hydrogen-bonded complexes that have been studied using matrix isolation spectroscopy: Matrix effects: stabilisation of complexes. Strongly hydrogen-bonded molecular complexes: the vibrational correlation diagram. Anomalous spectra: the Ratajczak-Yaremko model. Metastable complexes. Csbnd H hydrogen bonding and blue shifting hydrogen bonds.

Physico-chemical characterization of nano-emulsions in cosmetic matrix enriched on omega-3.

PubMed

Kabri, Tin-Hinan; Arab-Tehrany, Elmira; Belhaj, Nabila; Linder, Michel

2011-09-21

Nano-emulsions, as non-equilibrium systems, present characteristics and properties which depend not only on composition but also on their method of preparation. To obtain better penetration, nanocosmeceuticals use nano-sized systems for the delivery of active ingredients to targeted cells. In this work, nano-emulsions composed of miglyol, rapeseed oil and salmon oil were developed as a cosmetic matrix. Measurements of different physico-chemical properties of nano-emulsions were taken according to size, electrophoretic mobility, conductivity, viscosity, turbidity, cristallization and melting point. The RHLB was calculated for each formulation in order to achieve maximum stability. Both tween 80 and soya lecithin were found to stabilize formulations. The results showed that rapeseed oil and miglyol are the predominant parameters for determining the expression of results concerning the characterization of emulsion. Based on the mixture design, we achieved the optimal point using the following formulation: 56.5% rapessed oil, 35.5% miglyol, and 8% salmon oil. We considered this formulation to be the best as a nanocosmeceutical product due to the small size, good turbidity, and average HLB. This study demonstrates the influence of formulation on the physico-chemical properties of each nano-emulsion obtained by the mixture design.

Efficiency of methods for Karl Fischer determination of water in oils based on oven evaporation and azeotropic distillation.

PubMed

Larsson, William; Jalbert, Jocelyn; Gilbert, Roland; Cedergren, Anders

2003-03-15

The efficiency of azeotropic distillation and oven evaporation techniques for trace determination of water in oils has recently been questioned by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), on the basis of measurements of the residual water found after the extraction step. The results were obtained by volumetric Karl Fischer (KF) titration in a medium containing a large excess of chloroform (> or = 65%), a proposed prerequisite to ensure complete release of water from the oil matrix. In this work, the extent of this residual water was studied by means of a direct zero-current potentiometric technique using a KF medium containing more than 80% chloroform, which is well above the concentration recommended by NIST. A procedure is described that makes it possible to correct the results for dilution errors as well as for chemical interference effects caused by the oil matrix. The corrected values were found to be in the range of 0.6-1.5 ppm, which should be compared with the 12-34 ppm (uncorrected values) reported by NIST for the same oils. From this, it is concluded that the volumetric KF method used by NIST gives results that are much too high.

Oxygen speciation in upgraded fast pyrolysis bio-oils by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography.

PubMed

Omais, Badaoui; Crepier, Julien; Charon, Nadège; Courtiade, Marion; Quignard, Alain; Thiébaut, Didier

2013-04-21

Biomass fast pyrolysis is considered as a promising route to produce liquid for the transportation field from a renewable resource. However, the derived bio-oils are mainly oxygenated (45-50%w/w O on a wet basis) and contain almost no hydrocarbons. Therefore, upgrading is necessary to obtain a liquid with lower oxygen content and characterization of oxygenated compounds in these products is essential to assist conversion reactions. For this purpose, comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC × GC) can be investigated. Oxygen speciation in such matrices is hampered by the large diversity of oxygenated families and the complexity of the hydrocarbon matrix. Moreover, response factors must be taken into account for oxygenate quantification as the Flame Ionisation Detector (FID) response varies when a molecule contains heteroatoms. To conclude, no distillation cuts were accessible and the analysis had to cover a large range of boiling points (30-630 °C). To take up this analytical challenge, a thorough optimization approach was developed. In fact, four GC × GC column sets were investigated to separate oxygenated compounds from the hydrocarbon matrix. Both model mixtures and the upgraded biomass flash pyrolysis oil were injected using GC × GC-FID to reach a suitable chromatographic separation. The advantages and drawbacks of each column combination for oxygen speciation in upgraded bio-oils are highlighted in this study. Among the four sets, an original polar × semi-polar column combination was selected and enabled the identification by GC × GC-ToF/MS of more than 40 compounds belonging to eight chemical families: ketones, furans, alcohols, phenols, carboxylic acids, guaiacols, anisols, and esters. For quantification purpose, the GC × GC-FID chromatogram was divided into more than 60 blobs corresponding to the previously identified analyte and hydrocarbon zones. A database associating each blob to a molecule and its specific response factor (determined by standards injection at different concentrations) was created. A detailed molecular quantification by GC × GC-FID was therefore accessible after integration of the corrected normalized areas. This paper aims to present a detail level in terms of characterization of oxygenated compounds in upgraded bio-oils which to our knowledge has never been reached so far. It is based on an original column set selection and an extremely accurate quantification procedure.

Essential Oils in Food Preservation: Mode of Action, Synergies, and Interactions with Food Matrix Components

PubMed Central

Hyldgaard, Morten; Mygind, Tina; Meyer, Rikke Louise

2012-01-01

Essential oils are aromatic and volatile liquids extracted from plants. The chemicals in essential oils are secondary metabolites, which play an important role in plant defense as they often possess antimicrobial properties. The interest in essential oils and their application in food preservation has been amplified in recent years by an increasingly negative consumer perception of synthetic preservatives. Furthermore, food-borne diseases are a growing public health problem worldwide, calling for more effective preservation strategies. The antibacterial properties of essential oils and their constituents have been documented extensively. Pioneering work has also elucidated the mode of action of a few essential oil constituents, but detailed knowledge about most of the compounds’ mode of action is still lacking. This knowledge is particularly important to predict their effect on different microorganisms, how they interact with food matrix components, and how they work in combination with other antimicrobial compounds. The main obstacle for using essential oil constituents as food preservatives is that they are most often not potent enough as single components, and they cause negative organoleptic effects when added in sufficient amounts to provide an antimicrobial effect. Exploiting synergies between several compounds has been suggested as a solution to this problem. However, little is known about which interactions lead to synergistic, additive, or antagonistic effects. Such knowledge could contribute to design of new and more potent antimicrobial blends, and to understand the interplay between the constituents of crude essential oils. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of current knowledge about the antibacterial properties and antibacterial mode of action of essential oils and their constituents, and to identify research avenues that can facilitate implementation of essential oils as natural preservatives in foods. PMID:22291693

Essential oils in food preservation: mode of action, synergies, and interactions with food matrix components.

PubMed

Hyldgaard, Morten; Mygind, Tina; Meyer, Rikke Louise

2012-01-01

Essential oils are aromatic and volatile liquids extracted from plants. The chemicals in essential oils are secondary metabolites, which play an important role in plant defense as they often possess antimicrobial properties. The interest in essential oils and their application in food preservation has been amplified in recent years by an increasingly negative consumer perception of synthetic preservatives. Furthermore, food-borne diseases are a growing public health problem worldwide, calling for more effective preservation strategies. The antibacterial properties of essential oils and their constituents have been documented extensively. Pioneering work has also elucidated the mode of action of a few essential oil constituents, but detailed knowledge about most of the compounds' mode of action is still lacking. This knowledge is particularly important to predict their effect on different microorganisms, how they interact with food matrix components, and how they work in combination with other antimicrobial compounds. The main obstacle for using essential oil constituents as food preservatives is that they are most often not potent enough as single components, and they cause negative organoleptic effects when added in sufficient amounts to provide an antimicrobial effect. Exploiting synergies between several compounds has been suggested as a solution to this problem. However, little is known about which interactions lead to synergistic, additive, or antagonistic effects. Such knowledge could contribute to design of new and more potent antimicrobial blends, and to understand the interplay between the constituents of crude essential oils. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of current knowledge about the antibacterial properties and antibacterial mode of action of essential oils and their constituents, and to identify research avenues that can facilitate implementation of essential oils as natural preservatives in foods.

Single-run determination of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) di- to deca-brominated in fish meal, fish oil and fish feed by isotope dilution: application of automated sample purification and gas chromatography/ion trap tandem mass spectrometry (GC/ITMS).

PubMed

Blanco, Sonia Lucía; Vieites, Juan M

2010-07-05

The present paper describes the application of automated cleanup and fractionation procedures of the Power Prep system (Fluid Management Systems) for the determination of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in feeding stuffs and fish meal and oil. Gas chromatography (GC) separation followed by ion trap tandem mass spectrometry detection in EI mode (ITMS) allowed the analysis of di- to deca-BDEs in the samples matrices used in fish aquaculture. The method developed enabled the determination of 26 native PBDE congeners and 11 (13)C(12)-labelled congeners, including deca-BDE 209, in a single-run analysis, using isotope dilution. The automated cleanup, consisting of a succession of multilayer silica and basic alumina columns previously applied by Wyrzykowska et al. (2009) [28] in combustion flue gas, was successfully applied in our complex matrices. The method allowed an increase in productivity, i.e. lower time was required to process samples, and simultaneous purification of several samples was achieved at a time, reducing analyst dedication and human error input. Average recoveries of 43-96% were obtained. GC/ITMS can overcome the complexity originating from the sample matrix, eliminating matrix effects by tandem MS, to enable the detection of congeners penta- to nona-BDEs where interferent masses were present. The provisional detection limits, estimated in the samples, were 5-30 pg for di-, tri-, tetra-, and penta-BDEs, 20-65 pg for hexa-, hepta-, octa- and nona-BDEs, and 105 pg for deca-BDE. Reduction of deca-BDE 209 blank values is of concern to ongoing research. Good accuracy was obtained by application of the whole procedure, representing an efficient, low-cost and fast alternative for routine analyses. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Thermal and mechanical properties of palm oil-based polyurethane acrylate/clay nanocomposites prepared by in-situ intercalative method and electron beam radiation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Salih, A. M.; Ahmad, Mansor Bin; Ibrahim, Nor Azowa

2014-02-12

Palm oil based-polyurethane acrylate (POBUA)/clay nanocomposites were prepared via in-situ intercalative polymerization using epoxidized palm oil acrylate (EPOLA) and 4,4' methylene diphenyl diisocyante (MDI). Organically modified Montmorillonite (ODA-MMT) was incorporated in EPOLA (1, 3 and 5%wt), and then subjected to polycondensation reaction with MDI. Nanocomposites solid films were obtained successfully by electron beam radiation induced free radical polymerization (curing). FTIR results reveal that the prepolymer was obtained successfully, with nanoclay dispersed in the matrix. The intercalation of the clay in the polymer matrix was investigated by XRD and the interlayer spacing of clay was found to be increased up tomore » 37 Å, while the structure morphology of the nanocomposites was investigated by TEM and SEM. The nanocomposites were found to be a mixture of exfoliated and intercalated morphologies. The thermal stability of the nanocomposites was significantly increased by incorporation of nanoclay into the polymer matrix. DSC results reveal that the Tg was shifted to higher values, gradually with increasing the amount of filler in the nanocomposites. Tensile strength and Young's modulus of the nanocomposites showed remarkable improvement compared to the neat POBUA.« less

Antimicrobial Lemongrass Essential Oil-Copper Ferrite Cellulose Acetate Nanocapsules.

PubMed

Liakos, Ioannis L; Abdellatif, Mohamed H; Innocenti, Claudia; Scarpellini, Alice; Carzino, Riccardo; Brunetti, Virgilio; Marras, Sergio; Brescia, Rosaria; Drago, Filippo; Pompa, Pier Paolo

2016-04-20

Cellulose acetate (CA) nanoparticles were combined with two antimicrobial agents, namely lemongrass (LG) essential oil and Cu-ferrite nanoparticles. The preparation method of CA nanocapsules (NCs), with the two antimicrobial agents, was based on the nanoprecipitation method using the solvent/anti-solvent technique. Several physical and chemical analyses were performed to characterize the resulting NCs and to study their formation mechanism. The size of the combined antimicrobial NCs was found to be ca. 220 nm. The presence of Cu-ferrites enhanced the attachment of LG essential oil into the CA matrix. The magnetic properties of the combined construct were weak, due to the shielding of Cu-ferrites from the polymeric matrix, making them available for drug delivery applications where spontaneous magnetization effects should be avoided. The antimicrobial properties of the NCs were significantly enhanced with respect to CA/LG only. This work opens novel routes for the development of organic/inorganic nanoparticles with exceptional antimicrobial activities.

User's Manual for PCSMS (Parallel Complex Sparse Matrix Solver). Version 1.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reddy, C. J.

2000-01-01

PCSMS (Parallel Complex Sparse Matrix Solver) is a computer code written to make use of the existing real sparse direct solvers to solve complex, sparse matrix linear equations. PCSMS converts complex matrices into real matrices and use real, sparse direct matrix solvers to factor and solve the real matrices. The solution vector is reconverted to complex numbers. Though, this utility is written for Silicon Graphics (SGI) real sparse matrix solution routines, it is general in nature and can be easily modified to work with any real sparse matrix solver. The User's Manual is written to make the user acquainted with the installation and operation of the code. Driver routines are given to aid the users to integrate PCSMS routines in their own codes.

New directions: Beyond sulphur, vanadium and nickel - About source apportionment of ship emissions in emission control areas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Czech, Hendryk; Schnelle-Kreis, Jürgen; Streibel, Thorsten; Zimmermann, Ralf

2017-08-01

During the oil crises of the 70s and the associated increase of the oil price, the usage of marine fuels shifted from middle distillates of the crude oil refinery, such as marine diesel oil (MDO) or marine gas oil (MGO), towards cheaper heavy fuel oils (HFO), or also called residual fuel oil. The latter refers to the vacuum residue of the crude oil refinery blended by lighter refinery products, such as kerosene, to meet a certain maximum viscosity. Those HFOs are rich in sulphur and heavy metals which end up as significant constituents in emitted fine particulate matter (PM2.5) after the combustion. Especially for harbour cities or highly frequented ship traffic routes, HFO-derived PM2.5 has been identified as a globally important perpetrator of increased mortality by cardiopulmonary diseases and lung cancer (e.g. Corbett et al., 2007). However, the emitted hazardous species provide reliable markers to assess the contribution of this emission source to air pollution in source apportionment studies. Such studies are often performed utilising positive matrix factorisation, whose score matrix can be interpreted as temporal contribution of k identified emission sources and factors represent the k corresponding emission profiles. If one of the k factors contains moderate to high amounts of sulphate, vanadium and nickel with a high ratio of the two latter ones, the ship identification was unambiguous (e.g. Viana et al., 2009). Even more sensitive towards emission profiles are receptor models such as chemical mass balance, which require detailed prior knowledge about the assumed emission sources (Jeong et al., 2017).

Quantification of extra virgin olive oil in dressing and edible oil blends using the representative TMS-4,4'-desmethylsterols gas-chromatographic-normalized fingerprint.

PubMed

Pérez-Castaño, Estefanía; Sánchez-Viñas, Mercedes; Gázquez-Evangelista, Domingo; Bagur-González, M Gracia

2018-01-15

This paper describes and discusses the application of trimethylsilyl (TMS)-4,4'-desmethylsterols derivatives chromatographic fingerprints (obtained from an off-line HPLC-GC-FID system) for the quantification of extra virgin olive oil in commercial vinaigrettes, dressing salad and in-house reference materials (i-HRM) using two different Partial Least Square-Regression (PLS-R) multivariate quantification methods. Different data pre-processing strategies were carried out being the whole one: (i) internal normalization; (ii) sampling based on The Nyquist Theorem; (iii) internal correlation optimized shifting, icoshift; (iv) baseline correction (v) mean centering and (vi) selecting zones. The first model corresponds to a matrix of dimensions 'n×911' variables and the second one to a matrix of dimensions 'n×431' variables. It has to be highlighted that the proposed two PLS-R models allow the quantification of extra virgin olive oil in binary blends, foodstuffs, etc., when the provided percentage is greater than 25%. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Physical and chemical stability of nanostructured lipid drug carriers (NLC) based on natural lipids from Baikal region (Siberia, Russia).

PubMed

Averina, E S; Müller, R H; Popov, D V; Radnaeva, L D

2011-05-01

At the turn of the millennium, a new generation of lipid nanoparticles for pharmacology was developed, nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC). The features of NLC structure which allow the inclusion of natural biologically active lipids in the NLC matrix open a wide prospect for the creation of high performance drug carriers. In this study NLC formulations were developed based on natural lipids from the Siberia region (Russia): fish oil from Lake Baikal fish; polyunsaturated fatty acid fractions and monounsaturated and saturated fatty acid fractions from fish oil and Siberian pine seed oil. Formulation parameters of NLC such as as type of surfactant and storage conditions were evaluated. The data obtained indicated high physical stability of NLC formulated on the basis of pure fish oil stabilized by Tween 80 and NLC formulated on the basis of free fatty acids stabilized by Poloxamer 188. The good chemical stability of the lipid matrix and the high concentrations of the biologically active polyunsaturated fatty acids in the NLC developed open wide prospects for their use in pharmaceutics and cosmetics.

Thermodynamically consistent model of brittle oil shales under overpressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Izvekov, Oleg

2016-04-01

The concept of dual porosity is a common way for simulation of oil shale production. In the frame of this concept the porous fractured media is considered as superposition of two permeable continua with mass exchange. As a rule the concept doesn't take into account such as the well-known phenomenon as slip along natural fractures, overpressure in low permeability matrix and so on. Overpressure can lead to development of secondary fractures in low permeability matrix in the process of drilling and pressure reduction during production. In this work a new thermodynamically consistent model which generalizes the model of dual porosity is proposed. Particularities of the model are as follows. The set of natural fractures is considered as permeable continuum. Damage mechanics is applied to simulation of secondary fractures development in low permeability matrix. Slip along natural fractures is simulated in the frame of plasticity theory with Drucker-Prager criterion.

Weathering the Storm: Developing a Spatial Data Infrastructure and Online Research Platform for Oil Spill Preparedness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bauer, J. R.; Rose, K.; Romeo, L.; Barkhurst, A.; Nelson, J.; Duran-Sesin, R.; Vielma, J.

2016-12-01

Efforts to prepare for and reduce the risk of hazards, from both natural and anthropogenic sources, which threaten our oceans and coasts requires an understanding of the dynamics and interactions between the physical, ecological, and socio-economic systems. Understanding these coupled dynamics are essential as offshore oil & gas exploration and production continues to push into harsher, more extreme environments where risks and uncertainty increase. However, working with these large, complex data from various sources and scales to assess risks and potential impacts associated with offshore energy exploration and production poses several challenges to research. In order to address these challenges, an integrated assessment model (IAM) was developed at the Department of Energy's (DOE) National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) that combines spatial data infrastructure and an online research platform to manage, process, analyze, and share these large, multidimensional datasets, research products, and the tools and models used to evaluate risk and reduce uncertainty for the entire offshore system, from the subsurface, through the water column, to coastal ecosystems and communities. Here, we will discuss the spatial data infrastructure and online research platform, NETL's Energy Data eXchange (EDX), that underpin the offshore IAM, providing information on how the framework combines multidimensional spatial data and spatio-temporal tools to evaluate risks to the complex matrix of potential environmental, social, and economic impacts stemming from modeled offshore hazard scenarios, such as oil spills or hurricanes. In addition, we will discuss the online analytics, tools, and visualization methods integrated into this framework that support availability and access to data, as well as allow for the rapid analysis and effective communication of analytical results to aid a range of decision-making needs.

Dietary avocado oil supplementation attenuates the alterations induced by type I diabetes and oxidative stress in electron transfer at the complex II-complex III segment of the electron transport chain in rat kidney mitochondria.

PubMed

Ortiz-Avila, Omar; Sámano-García, Carlos Alberto; Calderón-Cortés, Elizabeth; Pérez-Hernández, Ismael H; Mejía-Zepeda, Ricardo; Rodríguez-Orozco, Alain R; Saavedra-Molina, Alfredo; Cortés-Rojo, Christian

2013-06-01

Impaired complex III activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in mitochondria have been identified as key events leading to renal damage during diabetes. Due to its high content of oleic acid and antioxidants, we aimed to test whether avocado oil may attenuate the alterations in electron transfer at complex III induced by diabetes by a mechanism related with increased resistance to lipid peroxidation. 90 days of avocado oil administration prevented the impairment in succinate-cytochrome c oxidoreductase activity caused by streptozotocin-induced diabetes in kidney mitochondria. This was associated with a protection against decreased electron transfer through high potential chain in complex III related to cytochromes c + c1 loss. During Fe(2+)-induced oxidative stress, avocado oil improved the activities of complexes II and III and enhanced the protection conferred by a lipophilic antioxidant against damage by Fe(2+). Avocado oil also decreased ROS generation in Fe(2+)-damaged mitochondria. Alterations in the ratio of C20:4/C18:2 fatty acids were observed in mitochondria from diabetic animals that not were corrected by avocado oil treatment, which yielded lower peroxidizability indexes only in diabetic mitochondria although avocado oil caused an augment in the total content of monounsaturated fatty acids. Moreover, a protective effect of avocado oil against lipid peroxidation was observed consistently only in control mitochondria. Since the beneficial effects of avocado oil in diabetic mitochondria were not related to increased resistance to lipid peroxidation, these effects were discussed in terms of the antioxidant activity of both C18:1 and the carotenoids reported to be contained in avocado oil.

Polymeric microcapsules with switchable mechanical properties for self-healing concrete: synthesis, characterisation and proof of concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kanellopoulos, A.; Giannaros, P.; Palmer, D.; Kerr, A.; Al-Tabbaa, A.

2017-04-01

Microcapsules, with sodium silicate solution as core, were produced using complex coacervation in a double, oil-in-water-in oil, emulsion system. The shell material was a gelatin-acacia gum crosslinked coacervate and the produced microcapsules had diameters ranging from 300 to 700 μm. The shell material designed with switchable mechanical properties. When it is hydrated exhibits soft and ‘rubbery’ behaviour and, when dried, transitions to a stiff and ‘glassy’ material. The microcapsules survived drying and rehydrating cycles and preserved their structural integrity when exposed to highly alkaline solutions that mimic the pH environment of concrete. Microscopy revealed that the shell thickness of the microcapsules varies across their perimeter from 5 to 20 μm. Thermal analysis showed that the produced microcapsules were very stable up to 190 °C. Proof of concept investigation has demonstrated that the microcapsules successfully survive and function when exposed to a cement-based matrix. Observations showed that the microcapsules survive mixing with cement and rupture successfully upon crack formation releasing the encapsulated sodium silicate solution.

A High Throughput Method for Measuring Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Seafood Using QuEChERS Extraction and SBSE.

PubMed

Pfannkoch, Edward A; Stuff, John R; Whitecavage, Jacqueline A; Blevins, John M; Seely, Kathryn A; Moran, Jeffery H

2015-01-01

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Method NMFS-NWFSC-59 2004 is currently used to quantitatively analyze seafood for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination, especially following events such as the Deepwater Horizon oil rig explosion that released millions of barrels of crude oil into the Gulf of Mexico. This method has limited throughput capacity; hence, alternative methods are necessary to meet analytical demands after such events. Stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE) is an effective technique to extract trace PAHs in water and the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS) extraction strategy effectively extracts PAHs from complex food matrices. This study uses SBSE to concentrate PAHs and eliminate matrix interference from QuEChERS extracts of seafood, specifically oysters, fish, and shrimp. This method provides acceptable recovery (65-138%) linear calibrations and is sensitive (LOD = 0.02 ppb, LOQ = 0.06 ppb) while providing higher throughput and maintaining equivalency between NOAA 2004 as determined by analysis of NIST SRM 1974b mussel tissue.

Analysis of ZDDP Content and Thermal Decomposition in Motor Oils Using NAA and NMR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferguson, S.; Johnson, J.; Gonzales, D.; Hobbs, C.; Allen, C.; Williams, S.

Zinc dialkyldithiophosphates (ZDDPs) are one of the most common anti-wear additives present in commercially-available motor oils. The ZDDP concentrations of motor oils are most commonly determined using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES). As part of an undergraduate research project, we have determined the Zn concentrations of eight commercially-available motor oils and one oil additive using neutron activation analysis (NAA), which has potential for greater accuracy and less sensitivity to matrix effects as compared to ICP-AES. The 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (31P-NMR) spectra were also obtained for several oil additive samples which have been heated to various temperatures in order to study the thermal decomposition of ZDDPs.

Electrospun composite matrices of poly(ε-caprolactone)-montmorillonite made using tenside free Pickering emulsions.

PubMed

Samanta, Archana; Takkar, Sonam; Kulshreshtha, Ritu; Nandan, Bhanu; Srivastava, Rajiv K

2016-12-01

The production of composite electrospun matrices of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) using an emulsifier-free emulsion, made with minimal organic solvent, as precursor is reported. Pickering emulsions of PCL were prepared using modified montmorillonite (MMT) clay as the stabilizer. Hydrophobic tallow group of the modified MMT clay resulted in analogous interaction of clay with oil and aqueous phase and its adsorption at the interface to provide stability to the resultant emulsion. Composite fibrous matrices of PCL and MMT were produced using electrospinning under controlled conditions. The fiber fineness was found to alter with PCL concentration and volume fraction of the aqueous and oil phases. A higher tensile strength and modulus was obtained with inclusion of MMT in PCL electrospun matrix in comparison to a matrix made using neat PCL. The presence of clay in the fibrous matrix did not change the cell proliferation efficiency in comparison to neat PCL matrix. Composite fibrous matrices of PCL/MMT bearing enhanced tensile properties may find applications in areas other than tissue engineering for example food packaging and filtration. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Enhancing oxidative stability in heated oils using core/shell structures of collagen and α-tocopherol complex.

PubMed

Gim, Seo Yeong; Hong, Seungmi; Kim, Jisu; Kwon, YongJun; Kim, Mi-Ja; Kim, GeunHyung; Lee, JaeHwan

2017-11-15

In this study, collagen mesh structure was prepared by carrying α-tocopherol in the form of core/shell complex. Antioxidant properties of α-tocopherol loaded carriers were tested in moisture added bulk oils at 140°C. From one gram of collagen core/shell complex, 138mg α-tocopherol was released in medium chain triacylglycerol (MCT). α-Tocopherol was substantially protected against heat treatment when α-tocopherol was complexed in collagen core/shell. Oxidative stability in bulk oil was significantly enhanced by added collagen mesh structure or collagen core/shell complex with α-tocopherol compared to that in control bulk oils (p<0.05), although no significant difference was observed between oils containing collagen mesh structure and collagen core/shell with α-tocopherol (p>0.05). Results of DPPH loss in methanol demonstrated that collagen core/shell with α-tocopherol had significantly (p<0.05) higher antioxidant properties than collagen mesh structure up to a certain period. Therefore, collagen core/shell complex is a promising way to enhance the stability of α-tocopherol and oxidative stability in oil-rich foods prepared at high temperature. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mid-Term Probabilistic Forecast of Oil Spill Trajectories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castanedo, S.; Abascal, A. J.; Cardenas, M.; Medina, R.; Guanche, Y.; Mendez, F. J.; Camus, P.

2012-12-01

There is increasing concern about the threat posed by oil spills to the coastal environment. This is reflected in the promulgation of various national and international standards among which are those that require companies whose activities involves oil spill risk, to have oil pollution emergency plans or similar arrangements for responding promptly and effectively to oil pollution incidents. Operational oceanography systems (OOS) that provide decision makers with oil spill trajectory forecasting, have demonstrated their usefulness in recent accidents (Castanedo et al., 2006). In recent years, many national and regional OOS have been setup focusing on short-term oil spill forecast (up to 5 days). However, recent accidental marine oil spills (Prestige in Spain, Deep Horizon in Gulf of Mexico) have revealed the importance of having larger prediction horizons (up to 15 days) in regional-scale areas. In this work, we have developed a methodology to provide probabilistic oil spill forecast based on numerical modelling and statistical methods. The main components of this approach are: (1) Use of high resolution long-term (1948-2009) historical hourly data bases of wind, wind-induced currents and astronomical tide currents obtained using state-of-the-art numerical models; (2) classification of representative wind field patterns (n=100) using clustering techniques based on PCA and K-means algorithms (Camus et al., 2011); (3) determination of the cluster occurrence probability and the stochastic matrix (matrix of transition of probability or Markov matrix), p_ij, (probability of moving from a cluster "i" to a cluster "j" in one time step); (4) Initial state for mid-term simulations is obtained from available wind forecast using nearest-neighbors analog method; (5) 15-days Stochastic Markov Chain simulations (m=1000) are launched; (6) Corresponding oil spill trajectories are carried out by TESEO Lagrangian transport model (Abascal et al., 2009); (7) probability maps are delivered using an user friendly Web App. The application of the method to the Gulf of Biscay (North Spain) will show the ability of this approach. References Abascal, A.J., Castanedo, S., Mendez, F.J., Medina, R., Losada, I.J., 2009. Calibration of a Lagrangian transport model using drifting buoys deployed during the Prestige oil spill. J. Coast. Res. 25 (1), 80-90.. Camus, P., Méndez, F.J., Medina, R., 2011. Analysis of clustering and selection algorithms for the study of multivariate wave climate. Coastal Engineering, doi:10.1016/j.coastaleng.2011.02.003. Castanedo, S., Medina, R., Losada, I.J., Vidal, C., Méndez, F.J., Osorio, A., Juanes, J.A., Puente, A., 2006. The Prestige oil spill in Cantabria (Bay of Biscay). Part I: operational forecasting system for quick response, risk assessment and protection of natural resources. J. Coast. Res. 22 (6), 1474-1489.

Physico-chemical characterization of nano-emulsions in cosmetic matrix enriched on omega-3

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Nano-emulsions, as non-equilibrium systems, present characteristics and properties which depend not only on composition but also on their method of preparation. To obtain better penetration, nanocosmeceuticals use nano-sized systems for the delivery of active ingredients to targeted cells. In this work, nano-emulsions composed of miglyol, rapeseed oil and salmon oil were developed as a cosmetic matrix. Measurements of different physico-chemical properties of nano-emulsions were taken according to size, electrophoretic mobility, conductivity, viscosity, turbidity, cristallization and melting point. The RHLB was calculated for each formulation in order to achieve maximum stability. Results Both tween 80 and soya lecithin were found to stabilize formulations. The results showed that rapeseed oil and miglyol are the predominant parameters for determining the expression of results concerning the characterization of emulsion. Based on the mixture design, we achieved the optimal point using the following formulation: 56.5% rapessed oil, 35.5% miglyol, and 8% salmon oil. We considered this formulation to be the best as a nanocosmeceutical product due to the small size, good turbidity, and average HLB. Conclusions This study demonstrates the influence of formulation on the physico-chemical properties of each nano-emulsion obtained by the mixture design. PMID:21936893

Estimating organic maturity from well logs, Upper Cretaceous Austin Chalk, Texas Gulf coast

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hines, G.A.; Berg, R.R.

1990-09-01

The Austin Chalk is both a source rock for oil and a fractured reservoir, and the evaluation of its organic maturity from well logs could be an aid to exploration and production. Geochemical measurements have shown three zones of organic maturity for source materials: (1) an immature zone to depths of 6,000 ft, (2) a peak-generation and accumulation zone from 6,000 to 6,500 ft, and (3) a mature, expulsion and migration zone below 6,500 ft. The response of common well logs identifies these zones. True resistivity (R{sub t}) is low in the immature zone, increases to a maximum in themore » peak-generation zone, and decreases to intermediate values in the expulsion zone. Density and neutron porosities are different in the immature zone but are nearly equal in the peak generation and expulsion zones. Correlations with conventional core analyses indicate that R{sub t} values between 9 and 40 ohm-m in the expulsion zone reflect a moveable oil saturation of 10 to 20% in the rock matrix. The moveable saturation provides oil from the matrix to fractures and is essential for sustained oil production. Therefore, the evaluation of moveable oil from well logs could be important in exploration.« less

[Determination of lead in microemulsified rapeseed oil and bio-diesel oil by GFAAS].

PubMed

Li, Sheng-qing; He, Xiao-min; Du, Ping; Wang, Min; Chen, Hao; Wu, Mou-cheng

2008-10-01

Bio-diesel oil has attracted much attention as a substitutable energy sources for its renewable and eco-friendly property. However, problems of lead contamination in fuel are also emphasized increasingly at present. So it was of quite significance to determine the contents of lead in bio-diesel oil and its raw material rapeseed oil. An effective method was developed for the rapid determination of lead in rapeseed oil and bio-diesel oil by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS) after their stabilization as microemulsions. In this research work, polyethyleneglycol octyl phenyl ether and n-butanol were used for emulsifier and auxiliary emulsifying agent, respectively. For Pb, efficient thermal stabilization was obtained using NH4H2PO4 as matrix modifier. Sample stabilization was necessary because of evident analyte losses that occurred immediately after sampling. Excellent long-term sample stabilization and the influence of the microemulsion composition on the GFAAS response were observed by mixing different organic solvents. The ashing and atomization temperature and ramp rate influenced the sensitivity obtained for Ph. Take this into account, the optimum conditions of the graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometric determination of Pb in rapeseed oil and bio-diesel oil samples were investigated. The results showed that the microemulsion was quite stable when the value of V(20% polyethyleneglycol octyl phenyl ether), V(n-butanol), V(oil) and V(water) was 0.1: 8.9: 0.5: 0.5, without matrix interference effect. The determination limit of the proposed method was 126.2 microg x L(-1) for Pb, comfortably below the values found in the analyzed samples. The recoveries were from 81.8% to 109.0%, which performed using the addition of different concentrations of lead to bio-diesel oil, rapeseed oil and petrochemical diesel samples. The relative standard deviation of determination was 5.84%. This work showed the great efficiency of the microemulsion, indicating that it is possible to extract lead from the oil phase. The method was applied to the determination of lead in oil samples with satisfactory results.

Microcapsules with a pH responsive polymer: influence of the encapsulated oil on the capsule morphology.

PubMed

Wagdare, Nagesh A; Marcelis, Antonius T M; Boom, Remko M; van Rijn, Cees J M

2011-11-01

Microcapsules were prepared by microsieve membrane cross flow emulsification of Eudragit FS 30D/dichloromethane/edible oil mixtures in water, and subsequent phase separation induced by extraction of the dichloromethane through an aqueous phase. For long-chain triglycerides and jojoba oil, core-shell particles were obtained with the oil as core, surrounded by a shell of Eudragit. Medium chain triglyceride (MCT oil) was encapsulated as relatively small droplets in the Eudragit matrix. The morphology of the formed capsules was investigated with optical and SEM microscopy. Extraction of the oil from the core-shell capsules with hexane resulted in hollow Eudragit capsules with porous shells. It was shown that the differences are related to the compatibility of the oils with the shell-forming Eudragit. An oil with poor compatibility yields microcapsules with a dense Eudragit shell on a single oil droplet as the core; oils having better compatibility yield porous Eudragit spheres with several oil droplets trapped inside. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The accuracy of matrix population model projections for coniferous trees in the Sierra Nevada

USGS Publications Warehouse

van Mantgem, P.J.; Stephenson, N.L.

2005-01-01

No. 2 fuel oil was fed to mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) ducklings in concentrations of 0.5 and 5.0% of the diet from hatching to 18 wk of age to assess the effects of chronic oil ingestion during early development. Five growth parameters (body weight, wing length, ninth primary length, tarsal length, and bill length) were depressed in birds receiving a diet containing 5% fuel oil. There was no oil-related mortality. The 5% fuel oil diet impaired avoidance behavior of 9-d-old mallard ducklings compared with controls or ducklings fed 0.5% oil. Open-field activity was greatly increased in 16-wk-old ducklings fed 5.0% oil. Liver hypertrophy and splenic atrophy were gross evidences of pathological effects in birds on the 5.0% oil diet. More subtle effects included biochemical lesions that resulted in the elevation of plasma alanine aminotransferase and ornithine carbamoyltransferase activity.

Degradation diagnosis of transformer insulating oils with terahertz time-domain spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Seung Beom; Kim, Won-Seok; Chung, Dong Chul; Joung, Jong Man; Kwak, Min Hwan

2017-12-01

We report the frequency-dependent complex optical constants, refractive index and absorption, and complex dielectric properties over the frequency range from 0.2 to 3.0 THz for aged power transformer mineral insulating oils. These results have been obtained using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) and demonstrate the double-Debye relaxation behavior of the mineral insulating oil. The measured complex optical and dielectric characteristics can be important benchmarks for liquid molecular dynamics and theoretical studies of insulating oils. Due to clear differences in THz responses of aged mineral insulating oils, THz-TDS can be used as a novel on-site diagnostic technique to monitor the insulation condition in aged power transformers and may be valuable alternative to characterize other developing eco-friendly insulating oils and industrial liquids.

Physical and antimicrobial properties of thyme oil emulsions stabilized by ovalbumin and gum arabic.

PubMed

Niu, Fuge; Pan, Weichun; Su, Yujie; Yang, Yanjun

2016-12-01

Natural biopolymer stabilized oil-in-water emulsions were formulated using ovalbumin (OVA), gum arabic (GA) solutions and their complexes. The influence of interfacial structure of emulsion (OVA-GA bilayer and OVA/GA complexes emulsions) on the physical properties and antimicrobial activity of thyme oil (TO) emulsion against Escherichia coli (E. coli) was evaluated. The results revealed that the two types of emulsions with different oil phase compositions remained stable during a long storage period. The oil phase composition had an appreciable influence on the mean particle diameter and retention of the TO emulsions. The stable emulsion showed a higher minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and the TO emulsions showed an improved long-term antimicrobial activity compared to the pure thyme oil, especially complexes emulsion at pH 4.0. These results provided useful information for developing protection and delivery systems for essential oil using biopolymer. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development of bioactive fish gelatin/chitosan nanoparticles composite films with antimicrobial properties.

PubMed

Hosseini, Seyed Fakhreddin; Rezaei, Masoud; Zandi, Mojgan; Farahmandghavi, Farhid

2016-03-01

The objective of this work was to develop active bio-based nanocomposite films from fish gelatin (FG) and chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) incorporated with Origanum vulgare L. essential oil (OEO). CSNPs were obtained by ionic gelation of chitosan with sodium tripolyphosphate, which presented a spherical morphology with size range of 40-80nm. Remarkable differences in the surface morphology were observed between the control and bioactive nanocomposite films as revealed by SEM and AFM images. FTIR results confirmed that an interaction between polymer matrix and essential oil had occurred, as shown by an increase in the amplitude of peaks at wavenumbers 1242cm(-1) and 1451cm(-1). Meanwhile, XRD peaks of OEO-containing films were more intense, indicating that the introduction of essential oil into the film matrix induces an increase in crystallinity. TGA analysis demonstrated that the addition of OEO had no impact on thermal stability of the films. Inclusion of OEO in the film matrix resulted in less resistant and more flexible films, with a decrease in water vapor permeability (WVP). The FG/CSNPs bioactive films exhibited distinctive antimicrobial activity against four test food pathogens, namely Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enteritidis and Escherichia coli. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Complex Permittivity Based Sensor for the Electrical Characterization of High-Voltage Transformer Oils

PubMed Central

Dervos, Constantine T.; Paraskevas, Christos D.; Skafidas, Panayotis D.; Vassiliou, Panayota

2005-01-01

This work investigates the use of a specially designed cylindrical metal cell, in order to obtain complex permittivity and tanδ data of highly insulating High Voltage (HV) transformer oil samples. The data are obtained at a wide range of frequencies and operation temperatures to demonstrate the polarization phenomena and the thermally stimulated effects. Such complex permittivity measurements may be utilized as a criterion for the service life prediction of oil field electrical equipment (OFEE). Therefore, by one set of measurements on a small oil volume, data may be provided on the impending termination, or continuation of the transformer oil service life. The oil incorporating cell, attached to the appropriate measuring units, could be described as a complex permittivity sensor. In this work, the acquired dielectric data from a great number of operating distribution network power transformers were correlated to corresponding physicochemical ones to demonstrate the future potential employment of the proposed measuring technique.

A quasi steady state method for solving transient Darcy flow in complex 3D fractured networks accounting for matrix to fracture flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nœtinger, B.

2015-02-01

Modeling natural Discrete Fracture Networks (DFN) receives more and more attention in applied geosciences, from oil and gas industry, to geothermal recovery and aquifer management. The fractures may be either natural, or artificial in case of well stimulation. Accounting for the flow inside the fracture network, and accounting for the transfers between the matrix and the fractures, with the same level of accuracy is an important issue for calibrating the well architecture and for setting up optimal resources recovery strategies. Recently, we proposed an original method allowing to model transient pressure diffusion in the fracture network only [1]. The matrix was assumed to be impervious. A systematic approximation scheme was built, allowing to model the initial DFN by a set of N unknowns located at each identified intersection between fractures. The higher N, the higher the accuracy of the model. The main assumption was using a quasi steady state hypothesis, that states that the characteristic diffusion time over one single fracture is negligible compared with the characteristic time of the macroscopic problem, e.g. change of boundary conditions. In that context, the lowest order approximation N = 1 has the form of solving a transient problem in a resistor/capacitor network, a so-called pipe network. Its topology is the same as the network of geometrical intersections between fractures. In this paper, we generalize this approach in order to account for fluxes from matrix to fractures. The quasi steady state hypothesis at the fracture level is still kept. Then, we show that in the case of well separated time scales between matrix and fractures, the preceding model needs only to be slightly modified in order to incorporate these fluxes. The additional knowledge of the so-called matrix to fracture transfer function allows to modify the mass matrix that becomes a time convolution operator. This is reminiscent of existing space averaged transient dual porosity models.

Phytochemical Constituents, Health Benefits, and Industrial Applications of Grape Seeds: A Mini-Review

PubMed Central

Zhang, Hongxia

2017-01-01

Grapes are one of the most widely grown fruits and have been used for winemaking since the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Grape seeds are rich in proanthocyanidins which have been shown to possess potent free radical scavenging activity. Grape seeds are a complex matrix containing 40% fiber, 16% oil, 11% proteins, and 7% complex phenols such as tannins. Grape seeds are rich sources of flavonoids and contain monomers, dimers, trimers, oligomers, and polymers. The monomeric compounds includes (+)-catechins, (−)-epicatechin, and (−)-epicatechin-3-O-gallate. Studies have reported that grape seeds exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties against oxidative stress. Their potential health benefits include protection against oxidative damage, and anti-diabetic, anti-cholesterol, and anti-platelet functions. Recognition of such health benefits of proanthocyanidins has led to the use of grape seeds as a dietary supplement by the consumers. This paper summarizes the studies of the phytochemical compounds, pharmacological properties, and industrial applications of grape seeds. PMID:28914789

Preparation of organogel with tea polyphenols complex for enhancing the antioxidation properties of edible oil.

PubMed

Shi, Rong; Zhang, Qiuyue; Vriesekoop, Frank; Yuan, Qipeng; Liang, Hao

2014-08-20

Food-grade organogels are semisolid systems with immobilized liquid edible oil in a three-dimensional network of self-assembled gelators, and they are supposed to have a broad range of potential applications in food industries. In this work, an edible organogel with tea polyphenols was developed, which possesses a highly effective antioxidative function. To enhance the dispersibility of the tea polyphenols in the oil phase, a solid lipid-surfactant-tea polyphenols complex (organogel complex) was first prepared according to a novel method. Then, a food-grade organogel was prepared by mixing this organogel complex with fresh peanut oil. Compared with adding free tea polyphenols, the organogel complex could be more homogeneously distributed in the prepared organogel system, especially under heating condition. Furthermore, the organogel loading of tea polyphenols performed a 2.5-fold higher antioxidation compared with other chemically synthesized antioxidants (butylated hydroxytoluene and propyl gallate) by evaluating the peroxide value of the fresh peanut oil based organogel in accelerated oxidation conditions.

The Methods for Connectivity Judgment on Reservoir Layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Xiuguang; Dong, Qiang; Liu, Yunyang

2017-12-01

Determining reservoir layer connectivity is the base for an oil field development. The work should be done in the first time. It affects the effects of the following works. However, for some oil field with complex reservoir layers, the study hasn’t fully been done, that causes the oil production rate decreases rapidly and bad oil field development. On the other hand, the simpler the oil field is, the earlier the development should be, thus increasing oil production becomes more and more difficult today, lots of detail works should be done for a complex oil field, the study of reservoir layer connectivity is very important in it.

Feasibility of the determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in edible oils via unfolded partial least-squares/residual bilinearization and parallel factor analysis of fluorescence excitation emission matrices.

PubMed

Alarcón, Francis; Báez, María E; Bravo, Manuel; Richter, Pablo; Escandar, Graciela M; Olivieri, Alejandro C; Fuentes, Edwar

2013-01-15

The possibility of simultaneously determining seven concerned heavy polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) of the US-EPA priority pollutant list, in extra virgin olive and sunflower oils was examined using unfolded partial least-squares with residual bilinearization (U-PLS/RBL) and parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC). Both of these methods were applied to fluorescence excitation emission matrices. The compounds studied were benzo[a]anthracene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, benzo[k]fluoranthene, benzo[a]pyrene, dibenz[a,h]anthracene, benzo[g,h,i]perylene and indeno[1,2,3-c,d]-pyrene. The analysis was performed using fluorescence spectroscopy after a microwave assisted liquid-liquid extraction and solid-phase extraction on silica. The U-PLS/RBL algorithm exhibited the best performance for resolving the heavy PAH mixture in the presence of both the highly complex oil matrix and other unpredicted PAHs of the US-EPA list. The obtained limit of detection for the proposed method ranged from 0.07 to 2 μg kg(-1). The predicted U-PLS/RBL concentrations were satisfactorily compared with those obtained using high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. A simple analysis with a considerable reduction in time and solvent consumption in comparison with chromatography are the principal advantages of the proposed method. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Encapsulation of citral isomers in extracted lemongrass oil with cyclodextrins: molecular modeling and physicochemical characterizations.

PubMed

Rungsardthong Ruktanonchai, Uracha; Srinuanchai, Wanwisa; Saesoo, Somsak; Sramala, Issara; Puttipipatkhachorn, Satit; Soottitantawat, Apinan

2011-01-01

The complexation between two isomers of citral in lemongrass oil and varying types of cyclodextrins (CDs), α-CD, β-CD, and HP-β-CD, were studied by molecular modeling and physicochemical characterization. The results obtained revealed that the most favorable complex formation governing between citrals in lemongrass oil and CDs were found at a 1:2 mole ratio for all CDs. Complex formation between E-citral and CD was more favorable than between Z-citral and CD. The thermal stability of the inclusion complex was observed compared to the citral in the lemongrass oil. The release time course of citral from the inclusion complex was the diffusion control, and it correlated well with Avrami's equation. The release rate constants of the E- and Z-citral inclusion complexes at 50 °C, 50% RH were observed at 1.32×10(-2) h(-1) and 1.43×10(-2) h(-1) respectively.

Identifying chemicals of concern in hydraulic fracturing fluids used for oil production.

PubMed

Stringfellow, William T; Camarillo, Mary Kay; Domen, Jeremy K; Sandelin, Whitney L; Varadharajan, Charuleka; Jordan, Preston D; Reagan, Matthew T; Cooley, Heather; Heberger, Matthew G; Birkholzer, Jens T

2017-01-01

Chemical additives used for hydraulic fracturing and matrix acidizing of oil reservoirs were reviewed and priority chemicals of concern needing further environmental risk assessment, treatment demonstration, or evaluation of occupational hazards were identified. We evaluated chemical additives used for well stimulation in California, the third largest oil producing state in the USA, by the mass and frequency of use, as well as toxicity. The most frequently used chemical additives in oil development were gelling agents, cross-linkers, breakers, clay control agents, iron and scale control agents, corrosion inhibitors, biocides, and various impurities and product stabilizers used as part of commercial mixtures. Hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids, used for matrix acidizing and other purposes, were reported infrequently. A large number and mass of solvents and surface active agents were used, including quaternary ammonia compounds (QACs) and nonionic surfactants. Acute toxicity was evaluated and many chemicals with low hazard to mammals were identified as potentially hazardous to aquatic environments. Based on an analysis of quantities used, toxicity, and lack of adequate hazard evaluation, QACs, biocides, and corrosion inhibitors were identified as priority chemicals of concern that deserve further investigation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparative Oral Absorption of Curcumin in a Natural Turmeric Matrix with Two Other Curcumin Formulations: An Open-label Parallel-arm Study.

PubMed

Gopi, Sreeraj; Jacob, Joby; Varma, Karthik; Jude, Shintu; Amalraj, Augustine; Arundhathy, C A; George, Robin; Sreeraj, T R; Divya, C; Kunnumakkara, Ajaikumar B; Stohs, Sidney J

2017-12-01

Curcuminoids are the major bioactive molecules in turmeric, and poor bioavailability deters them from being the major components of many health and wellness applications. This study was conducted to assess the bioavailability of a completely natural turmeric matrix formulation (CNTMF) and compare its bioavailability with two other commercially available formulations, namely, curcumin with volatile oil (volatile oil formulation) and curcumin with phospholipids and cellulose (phospholipid formulation) in healthy human adult male subjects (15 each group) under fasting conditions. Each formulation was administrated orally as a single 500-mg dose in capsule form, and blood samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry at various time intervals up to 24 h. The ingestion of the CNTMF was very well absorbed and resulted in a mean curcuminoids plasma C max of 170.14 ng/mL (T max  = 4 h) compared with 47.54 ng/mL and 69.63 ng/mL for the volatile oil (T max  = 3 h) and phospholipid (T max  = 2.25 h) formulations, respectively. The extent of absorption of total curcuminoids in the blood for the CNTMF was 6× greater than volatile oil formulation and 5× greater than phospholipids formulation. The results of this study indicate that curcumin in a natural turmeric matrix exhibited greater bioavailability than the two comparator products. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Cross-linked κ-carrageenan polymer/zinc nanoporous composite matrix for expanded bed application: Fabrication and hydrodynamic characterization.

PubMed

Mohsenkhani, Sadaf; Jahanshahi, Mohsen; Rahimpour, Ahmad

2015-08-21

Expanded bed adsorption (EBA) is a reliable separation technique for the purification of bioproducts from complex feedstocks. The specifically designed adsorbent is necessary to form a stable expanded bed. In the present work, a novel custom-designed composite matrix has been prepared through the method of water-in-oil emulsification. In order to develop an adsorbent with desirable qualities and reduce the costs, κ-carrageenan and zinc powder were used as the polymeric skeleton and the densifier, respectively. The prepared composite matrix was named as KC-Zn. Optical microscope (OM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were applied to characterize the morphology and structure of prepared composite matrix. These analyses approved good spherical shape and porous structure with nano-scale pores in the range of about 60-180nm. The results from the particle size analyzer (PSA) revealed that all the KC-Zn beads followed logarithmic normal size distribution with the range of 50-350μm and average diameter of 160-230μm, respectively. Main physical properties of KC-Zn matrices were measured as a function of zinc powder ratio to κ-carrageenan slurry, which showed an appropriate wet density in the range of 1.39-2.27g/ml, water content of 72.67-36.41% and porosity of 98.07-80.24%, respectively. The effects of matrix density and liquid phase viscosity on hydrodynamic behavior of prepared matrix have been investigated by residence time distribution (RTD) experiments in an expanded bed. The results indicated that in a constant liquid velocity as the matrix density was increased, the expansion factor of bed decreased and the axial mixing coefficient increased. Moreover, an enhancement in the fluid viscosity led to an increase in the bed expansion and a decrease in the stability of expanded bed. Therefore using a matrix with higher density seems necessary to face viscous feedstocks. All the results demonstrated that proper physical properties and hydrodynamic characteristics of KC-Zn matrix confirm good potential for possible use in high flow rate expanded bed operations. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Utilization of agro-industrial waste for biosurfactant production under submerged fermentation and its application in oil recovery from sand matrix.

PubMed

Das, Amar Jyoti; Kumar, Rajesh

2018-07-01

This study reports biosurfactant production by Pseudomonas azotoformans AJ15 under submerged fermentation via utilizing the agro-industrial wastes (bagasse and potato peels). The extracted biosurfactant was characterized for its classification (nature, group, and class) and stability against environmental stresses. Further, the biosurfactant was employed to explore its oil recovery efficiency from the sand matrix with 2000 ppm salt concentration. Results revealed that substrates developed by mixing both the agro-industrial wastes account for high yield of biosurfactant. The subsequent experimental studies demonstrated that the biosurfactant might belong to glycolipid group and rhamnolipid class. Moreover, the biosurfactant was stable at a high temperature of 90 °C and enable to persist its activity in the high salt concentration of 6% and varying pH. The biosurfactant was found to be effective in recovering up to 36.56% of trapped oil under saline condition. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Drug Release Kinetics and Front Movement in Matrix Tablets Containing Diltiazem or Metoprolol/λ-Carrageenan Complexes

PubMed Central

Bonferoni, Maria Cristina; Colombo, Paolo; Zanelotti, Laura; Caramella, Carla

2014-01-01

In this work we investigated the moving boundaries and the associated drug release kinetics in matrix tablets prepared with two complexes between λ-carrageenan and two soluble model drugs, namely, diltiazem HCl and metoprolol tartrate aiming at clarifying the role played by drug/polymer interaction on the water uptake, swelling, drug dissolution, and drug release performance of the matrix. The two studied complexes released the drug with different mechanism indicating two different drug/polymer interaction strengths. The comparison between the drug release behaviour of the complexes and the relevant physical mixtures indicates that diltiazem gave rise to a less soluble and more stable complex with carrageenan than metoprolol. The less stable metoprolol complex afforded an erodible matrix, whereas the stronger interaction between diltiazem and carrageenan resulted in a poorly soluble, slowly dissolving matrix. It was concluded that the different stability of the studied complexes affords two distinct drug delivery systems: in the case of MTP, the dissociation of the complex, as a consequence of the interaction with water, affords a classical soluble matrix type delivery system; in the case of DTZ, the dissolving/diffusing species is the complex itself because of the very strong interaction between the drug and the polymer. PMID:25045689

Drug release kinetics and front movement in matrix tablets containing diltiazem or metoprolol/λ-carrageenan complexes.

PubMed

Bettini, Ruggero; Bonferoni, Maria Cristina; Colombo, Paolo; Zanelotti, Laura; Caramella, Carla

2014-01-01

In this work we investigated the moving boundaries and the associated drug release kinetics in matrix tablets prepared with two complexes between λ-carrageenan and two soluble model drugs, namely, diltiazem HCl and metoprolol tartrate aiming at clarifying the role played by drug/polymer interaction on the water uptake, swelling, drug dissolution, and drug release performance of the matrix. The two studied complexes released the drug with different mechanism indicating two different drug/polymer interaction strengths. The comparison between the drug release behaviour of the complexes and the relevant physical mixtures indicates that diltiazem gave rise to a less soluble and more stable complex with carrageenan than metoprolol. The less stable metoprolol complex afforded an erodible matrix, whereas the stronger interaction between diltiazem and carrageenan resulted in a poorly soluble, slowly dissolving matrix. It was concluded that the different stability of the studied complexes affords two distinct drug delivery systems: in the case of MTP, the dissociation of the complex, as a consequence of the interaction with water, affords a classical soluble matrix type delivery system; in the case of DTZ, the dissolving/diffusing species is the complex itself because of the very strong interaction between the drug and the polymer.

Properties and Antioxidant Capacity of Anchovy (Engraulis encrasicholus) By-Product Protein Films Containing Thyme Essential Oil.

PubMed

Tural, Serpil; Turhan, Sadettin

2017-03-01

In this study, some properties and antioxidant capacity of anchovy ( Engraulis encrasicholus ) by-product protein films with added 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5% of thyme essential oil were investigated. The films with thyme essential oil had higher elongation at break, water vapour permeability and oxygen permeability, lower solubility and tensile strength than control film (p<0.05). The incorporation of thyme essential oil affected transparency values of the films, but only the addition of 1.5% of thyme essential oil significantly reduced the transparency (p<0.05). In the film matrix, molecular organisation and intermolecular interaction were changed by thyme essential oil addition. The films with thyme essential oil had a heterogeneous surface and a relatively smooth cross-section structure. Slightly higher phase transition and lower glass transition temperatures were observed in films with thyme essential oil. The antioxidant capacity of the films was improved by incorporating thyme essential oil depending on its volume fraction.

Properties and Antioxidant Capacity of Anchovy (Engraulis encrasicholus) By-Product Protein Films Containing Thyme Essential Oil

PubMed Central

Tural, Serpil

2017-01-01

Summary In this study, some properties and antioxidant capacity of anchovy (Engraulis encrasicholus) by-product protein films with added 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5% of thyme essential oil were investigated. The films with thyme essential oil had higher elongation at break, water vapour permeability and oxygen permeability, lower solubility and tensile strength than control film (p<0.05). The incorporation of thyme essential oil affected transparency values of the films, but only the addition of 1.5% of thyme essential oil significantly reduced the transparency (p<0.05). In the film matrix, molecular organisation and intermolecular interaction were changed by thyme essential oil addition. The films with thyme essential oil had a heterogeneous surface and a relatively smooth cross-section structure. Slightly higher phase transition and lower glass transition temperatures were observed in films with thyme essential oil. The antioxidant capacity of the films was improved by incorporating thyme essential oil depending on its volume fraction. PMID:28559736

The effect of epoxidized soybean oil on mechanical and rheological properties of poly(butylene succinate)/lignin via vane extruder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Huanyu; Huang, Zhaoxia; Qu, Jinping; Meng, Cong

2016-03-01

Epoxidized Soybean Oil (ESO) have been used as the compatilizer in the Poly (butylene succinate)/lignin (PBS/lignin) composites. Compatibilized composites were fabricated by a novel vane extruder (VE) which can generate global and dynamic elongational flow. The effects of ESO on the mechanical, rheological properties and morphology of PBS/lignin were studied. The results indicated that the use of ESO had plasticizing effect on the matrix PBS while the addition reduced tensile strength. From SEM micrographs it could be clearly observed that there was a better interfacial adhesion between lignin and matrix. Meanwhile, rheological tests showed the incorporation of ESO improved its Newtonian behavior and can enhance PBS's flexibility.

Atmospheric pressure matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry of friction modifier additives analyzed directly from base oil solutions.

PubMed

Widder, Lukas; Brennerb, Josef; Huttera, Herbert

2014-01-01

To develop new products and to apply measures of quality control quick and simple accessibility of additive composition in automo- tive lubrication is important. The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of analyzing organic friction modifier additives by means of atmospheric pressure matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry [AP-MALDI-MS] from lubricant solu- tions without the use of additional separation techniques. Analyses of selected friction modifier ethoxylated tallow amines and oleic acid amide were compared using two ionization methods, positive-ion electrospray ionization (ESI) and AP-MALDI, using a LTQ Orbitrap mass spectrometer. Pure additives were characterized from solvent solutions, as well as from synthetic and mineral base oil mixtures. Detected ions of pure additive samples consisted mainly of [M + H]+, but also alkaLi metal adducts [M + Na]+ and [M + K]+ could be seen. Characterizations of blends of both friction modifiers from the base oil mixtures were carried out as well and showed significant inten- sities for several additive peaks. Thus, this work shows a method to directly analyze friction modifier additives used in the automotive industry from an oil blend via the use of AP-MALDI without any further separation steps. The method presented will further simplify the acquisition of data on lubricant composition and additives. Furthermore, it allows the perspective of analyzing additive reaction products directly from formulated oil blends.

Thermal and oxidative stability of the Ocimum basilicum L. essential oil/β-cyclodextrin supramolecular system.

PubMed

Hădărugă, Daniel I; Hădărugă, Nicoleta G; Costescu, Corina I; David, Ioan; Gruia, Alexandra T

2014-01-01

Ocimum basilicum L. essential oil and its β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) complex have been investigated with respect to their stability against the degradative action of air/oxygen and temperature. This supramolecular system was obtained by a crystallization method in order to achieve the equilibrium of complexed-uncomplexed volatile compounds in an ethanol/water solution at 50 °C. Both the raw essential oil and its β-CD complex have been subjected to thermal and oxidative degradation conditions in order to evaluate the protective capacity of β-CD. The relative concentration of the O. basilicum L. essential oil compounds, as determined by GC-MS, varies accordingly with their sensitivity to the thermal and/or oxidative degradation conditions imposed. Furthermore, the relative concentration of the volatile O. basilicum L. compounds found in the β-CD complex is quite different in comparison with the raw material. An increase of the relative concentration of linalool oxide from 0.3% to 1.1%, in addition to many sesquiterpene oxides, has been observed. β-CD complexation of the O. basilicum essential oil modifies the relative concentration of the encapsulated volatile compounds. Thus, linalool was better encapsulated in β-CD, while methylchavicol (estragole) was encapsulated in β-CD at a concentration close to that of the raw essential oil. Higher relative concentrations from the degradation of the oxygenated compounds such as linalool oxide and aromadendren oxide were determined in the raw O. basilicum L. essential oil in comparison with the corresponding β-CD complex. For the first time, the protective capability of natural β-CD for labile basil essential oil compounds has been demonstrated.

Complex matrix multiplication operations with data pre-conditioning in a high performance computing architecture

DOEpatents

Eichenberger, Alexandre E; Gschwind, Michael K; Gunnels, John A

2014-02-11

Mechanisms for performing a complex matrix multiplication operation are provided. A vector load operation is performed to load a first vector operand of the complex matrix multiplication operation to a first target vector register. The first vector operand comprises a real and imaginary part of a first complex vector value. A complex load and splat operation is performed to load a second complex vector value of a second vector operand and replicate the second complex vector value within a second target vector register. The second complex vector value has a real and imaginary part. A cross multiply add operation is performed on elements of the first target vector register and elements of the second target vector register to generate a partial product of the complex matrix multiplication operation. The partial product is accumulated with other partial products and a resulting accumulated partial product is stored in a result vector register.

Crystallization of bFGF-DNA Aptamer Complexes Using a Sparse Matrix Designed for Protein-Nucleic Acid Complexes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cannone, Jaime J.; Barnes, Cindy L.; Achari, Aniruddha; Kundrot, Craig E.; Whitaker, Ann F. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The Sparse Matrix approach for obtaining lead crystallization conditions has proven to be very fruitful for the crystallization of proteins and nucleic acids. Here we report a Sparse Matrix developed specifically for the crystallization of protein-DNA complexes. This method is rapid and economical, typically requiring 2.5 mg of complex to test 48 conditions. The method was originally developed to crystallize basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) complexed with DNA sequences identified through in vitro selection, or SELEX, methods. Two DNA aptamers that bind with approximately nanomolar affinity and inhibit the angiogenic properties of bFGF were selected for co-crystallization. The Sparse Matrix produced lead crystallization conditions for both bFGF-DNA complexes.

Matrix differentiation formulas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Usikov, D. A.; Tkhabisimov, D. K.

1983-01-01

A compact differentiation technique (without using indexes) is developed for scalar functions that depend on complex matrix arguments which are combined by operations of complex conjugation, transposition, addition, multiplication, matrix inversion and taking the direct product. The differentiation apparatus is developed in order to simplify the solution of extremum problems of scalar functions of matrix arguments.

Investigation of Phenols Activity in Early Stage Oxidation of Edible Oils by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance and 19F NMR Spectroscopies Using Novel Lipid Vanadium Complexes As Radical Initiators.

PubMed

Drouza, Chryssoula; Dieronitou, Anthi; Hadjiadamou, Ioanna; Stylianou, Marios

2017-06-21

A novel dynamic method for the investigation of the phenols activity in early stage oxidation of edible oils based on the formation of α-tocopheryl radicals initiated by oil-soluble vanadium complexes is developed. Two new vanadium complexes in oxidation states V and IV were synthesized by reacting 2,2'-((2-hydroxyoctadecyl)azanediyl)bis(ethan-1-ol) (C18DEA) with [VO(acac) 2 ] and 1-(bis(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)amino)octadecan-2-ol (C18DPA) with VOCl 2 . Addition of a solution of either complex in edible oils resulted in the formation of α-tocopheryl radical, which was monitored by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The intensity of the α-tocopheryl signal in the EPR spectra was measured versus time. It was found that the profile of the intensity of the α-tocopheryl signal versus time depends on the type of oil, the phenolic content, and the storage time of the oil. The time interval until the occurrence of maximum peak intensity be reached (t m ), the height of the maximum intensity, and the rate of the quenching of the α-tocopheryl radical were used for the investigation of the mechanism of the edible oils oxidation. 19 F NMR of the 19 F labeled phenolic compounds (through trifluoroacetate esters) and radical trap experiments showed that the vanadium complexes in edible oil activate the one electron reduction of dioxygen to superperoxide radical. Superperoxide reacts with the lipids to form alkoperoxyl and alkoxyl lipid radicals, and all these radicals react with the phenols contained in oils.

A robust method of computing finite difference coefficients based on Vandermonde matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yijie; Gao, Jinghuai; Peng, Jigen; Han, Weimin

2018-05-01

When the finite difference (FD) method is employed to simulate the wave propagation, high-order FD method is preferred in order to achieve better accuracy. However, if the order of FD scheme is high enough, the coefficient matrix of the formula for calculating finite difference coefficients is close to be singular. In this case, when the FD coefficients are computed by matrix inverse operator of MATLAB, inaccuracy can be produced. In order to overcome this problem, we have suggested an algorithm based on Vandermonde matrix in this paper. After specified mathematical transformation, the coefficient matrix is transformed into a Vandermonde matrix. Then the FD coefficients of high-order FD method can be computed by the algorithm of Vandermonde matrix, which prevents the inverse of the singular matrix. The dispersion analysis and numerical results of a homogeneous elastic model and a geophysical model of oil and gas reservoir demonstrate that the algorithm based on Vandermonde matrix has better accuracy compared with matrix inverse operator of MATLAB.

Extraction of trace elements by ultrasound-assisted emulsification from edible oils producing detergentless microemulsions.

PubMed

Kara, Derya; Fisher, Andrew; Hill, Steve

2015-12-01

The aim of this study is to develop a new method for the extraction and preconcentration of trace elements from edible oils via an ultrasound-assisted extraction using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) producing detergentless microemulsions. These were then analyzed using ICP-MS against matrix matched standards. Optimum experimental conditions were determined and the applicability of the proposed ultrasound-assisted extraction method was investigated. Under the optimal conditions, the detection limits (μg kg(-1)) were 2.47, 2.81, 0.013, 0.037, 1.37, 0.050, 0.049, 0.47, 0.032 and 0.087 for Al, Ca, Cd, Cu, Mg, Mn, Ni, Ti, V and Zn respectively for edible oils (3Sb/m). The accuracy of the developed method was checked by analyzing certified reference material. The proposed method was applied to different edible oils such as sunflower seed oil, rapeseed oil, olive oil and cod liver oil. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fluorometric Index for Sensing Oil in the Sea Environment.

PubMed

Baszanowska, Emilia; Otremba, Zbigniew

2017-06-02

Excitation-emission matrix spectroscopy (EEMS) was applied to determine the fluorometric index (FI) as a parameter indicating the presence of a source of oil pollution in a specific area of the sea. Seawater from the Polish coast (the Baltic Sea) and the same water combined with various amounts of crude oil extracted from the Baltic Sea shelf ( Petrobaltic -type oil) were used in this study. The FI values were calculated for excitation and emission wavelengths found at the maximal peak, taking into account the natural seawater and the seawater artificially contaminated (for an oil-to-water ratio range of 0.5 × 10 -6 - 500 × 10 -6 ). The wavelength configurations (Ex/Em) (225/355 and 225/340) for the FI index were applied. It was found that, independent of the amount of oil, the FI achieves a higher value for natural seawater than for seawater that has had contact with oil. These results provide the basis to design a sensor signaling the appearance of oil in a defined sea area.

Fish oil decreases matrix metalloproteinases in knee synovia of dogs with inflammatory joint disease.

PubMed

Hansen, Rodney A; Harris, Mary A; Pluhar, G Elizabeth; Motta, Tatiana; Brevard, Sean; Ogilvie, Gregory K; Fettman, Martin J; Allen, Kenneth G D

2008-02-01

This study was designed to determine whether dietary fish oil affects the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), tissue inhibitors of MMP-2 (TIMP-2) and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) in synovial fluid from dogs with spontaneously occurring stifle (knee) instability in a single hind limb resulting from acute cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury. Two groups of 12 dogs were fed diets from 1 week prior to surgery on the affected knee to 56 days post-surgery. The fish oil and control diets provided 90 and 4.5 mg, respectively, of combined eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)/kg body weight per day. Plasma and synovial fluid, from both surgical and nonsurgical knee joints, were obtained at start of the diet (-7), surgery day (0) and 7, 14, 28 and 56 days post-surgery. Plasma total EPA and DHA were significantly increased, and plasma total arachidonic acid (AA) was significantly decreased by the fish oil diet. In synovial fluid from the nonsurgical knee, fish oil treatment significantly decreased proMMP-2 expression at Days 7 and 14, and proMMP-9 expression at Day 56, and uPA activity at 28 days and significantly increased TIMP-2 expression at Days 7 and 28. There were no differences in MMP expression or activity, TIMP-2 expression and uPA activity in the surgical joint synovial fluid at any time throughout the study. These results suggest that dietary fish oil may exert beneficial effects on synovial fluid MMP and TIMP-2 equilibrium in the uninjured stifle of dogs with unilateral CCL injury.

Analysis of the effectiveness of steam retorting of oil shale

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jacobs, H.R.; Pensel, R.W.; Udell, K.S.

A numerical model is developed to describe the retorting of oil shale using superheated steam. The model describes not only the temperature history of the shale but predicts the evolution of shale oil from kerogen decomposition and the breakdown of the carbonates existing in the shale matrix. The heat transfer coefficients between the water and the shale are determined from experiments utilizing the model to reduce the data. Similarly the model is used with thermogravimetric analysis experiments to develop an improved kinetics expression for kerogen decomposition in a steam environment. Numerical results are presented which indicate the effect of oilmore » shale particle size and steam temperature on oil production.« less

Planning and management of the Nido Reef Complex Oil Field development, Philippines

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Harry, R.Y.

1981-01-01

As Operator for the Northeast Palawan consortium, Philippines-Cities Service, Inc., commenced the Philippines first commercial offshore oil production from the Nido Reef Complex Oil Field on February 1, 1979, some 11 months after a decision by management to start development. The relative speed at which design, fabrication, and construction were accomplished is attributed to the use of the concepts of project planning, task force approach, and project management. This paper presents the above concepts as applied to the Nido Complex.

Extraction of mercury(II) with sulfurized jojoba oil

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wisniak, J.; Schorr, G.; Zacovsky, D.

1990-09-01

Sulfurized jojoba oil containing 12% by weight S has been tested as an extractant for Hg(II) from aqueous solutions. This paper reports on experiments performed with the extractant dissolved in a solvent (liquid--liquid extraction) or adsorbed in an appropriate resin matrix (solid--liquid extraction). The extraction characteristics of both systems have been measured and show that sulfurized jojoba oil exhibits very good possibilities as an extractant. The performance of several resins treated with sulfurized jojoba oil for adsorbing mercury(II) was studied. The morphology of the different resins was examined by using scanning electron microscopy. The sulfurized oil is attached to themore » resin sites through the sulfur atoms; it is estimated that there are about 2 mol of S active sites per kilogram of resin.« less

Molecular Characterization of Thiols in Fossil Fuels by Michael Addition Reaction Derivatization and Electrospray Ionization Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Wang, Meng; Zhao, Suoqi; Liu, Xuxia; Shi, Quan

2016-10-04

Thiols widely occur in sediments and fossil fuels. However, the molecular composition of these compounds is unclear due to the lack of appropriate analytical methods. In this work, a characterization method for thiols in fossil fuels was developed on the basis of Michael addition reaction derivatization followed by electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (ESI FT-ICR MS). Model thiol compound studies showed that thiols were selectively reacted with phenylvinylsulfone and transformed to sulfones with greater than 98% conversions. This method was applied to a coker naphtha, light and heavy gas oils, and crude oils from various geological sources. The results showed that long alkyl chain thiols are readily present in petroleum, which have up to 30 carbon atoms. Large DBE dispersity of thiols indicates that naphthenic and aromatic thiols are also present in the petroleum. This method is capable of detecting thiol compounds in the part per million range by weight. This method allows characterization of thiols in a complex hydrocarbon matrix, which is complementary to the comprehensive analysis of sulfur compounds in fossil fuels.

Transcriptomics and the Mediterranean Diet: A Systematic Review

PubMed Central

Herrera-Marcos, Luis V.; Lou-Bonafonte, José M.; Arnal, Carmen; Navarro, María A.; Osada, Jesús

2017-01-01

The Mediterranean diet has been proven to be highly effective in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and cancer and in decreasing overall mortality. Nowadays, transcriptomics is gaining particular relevance due to the existence of non-coding RNAs capable of regulating many biological processes. The present work describes a systematic review of current evidence supporting the influence of the Mediterranean diet on transcriptomes of different tissues in various experimental models. While information on regulatory RNA is very limited, they seem to contribute to the effect. Special attention has been given to the oily matrix of virgin olive oil. In this regard, monounsaturated fatty acid-rich diets prevented the expression of inflammatory genes in different tissues, an action also observed after the administration of olive oil phenolic compounds. Among these, tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol, and secoiridoids have been found to be particularly effective in cell cycle expression. Less explored terpenes, such as oleanolic acid, are important modulators of circadian clock genes. The wide range of studied tissues and organisms indicate that response to these compounds is universal and poses an important level of complexity considering the different genes expressed in each tissue and the number of different tissues in an organism. PMID:28486416

Transcriptomics and the Mediterranean Diet: A Systematic Review.

PubMed

Herrera-Marcos, Luis V; Lou-Bonafonte, José M; Arnal, Carmen; Navarro, María A; Osada, Jesús

2017-05-09

The Mediterranean diet has been proven to be highly effective in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and cancer and in decreasing overall mortality. Nowadays, transcriptomics is gaining particular relevance due to the existence of non-coding RNAs capable of regulating many biological processes. The present work describes a systematic review of current evidence supporting the influence of the Mediterranean diet on transcriptomes of different tissues in various experimental models. While information on regulatory RNA is very limited, they seem to contribute to the effect. Special attention has been given to the oily matrix of virgin olive oil. In this regard, monounsaturated fatty acid-rich diets prevented the expression of inflammatory genes in different tissues, an action also observed after the administration of olive oil phenolic compounds. Among these, tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol, and secoiridoids have been found to be particularly effective in cell cycle expression. Less explored terpenes, such as oleanolic acid, are important modulators of circadian clock genes. The wide range of studied tissues and organisms indicate that response to these compounds is universal and poses an important level of complexity considering the different genes expressed in each tissue and the number of different tissues in an organism.

Final anatomic and visual outcomes appear independent of duration of silicone oil intraocular tamponade in complex retinal detachment surgery.

PubMed

Rhatigan, Maedbh; McElnea, Elizabeth; Murtagh, Patrick; Stephenson, Kirk; Harris, Elaine; Connell, Paul; Keegan, David

2018-01-01

To report anatomic and visual outcomes following silicone oil removal in a cohort of patients with complex retinal detachment, to determine association between duration of tamponade and outcomes and to compare patients with oil removed and those with oil in situ in terms of demographic, surgical and visual factors. We reported a four years retrospective case series of 143 patients with complex retinal detachments who underwent intraocular silicone oil tamponade. Analysis between anatomic and visual outcomes, baseline demographics, duration of tamponade and number of surgical procedures were carried out using Fisher's exact test and unpaired two-tailed t -test. One hundred and six patients (76.2%) had undergone silicone oil removal at the time of review with 96 patients (90.6%) showing retinal reattachment following oil removal. Duration of tamponade was not associated with final reattachment rate or with a deterioration in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Patients with oil removed had a significantly better baseline and final BCVA compared to those under oil tamponade ( P =0.0001, <0.0001 respectively). Anatomic and visual outcomes in this cohort are in keeping with those reported in the literature. Favorable outcomes were seen with oil removal but duration of oil tamponade does not affect final attachment rate with modern surgical techniques and should be managed on a case by case basis.

Identification of fluids and an interface between fluids by measuring complex impedance

DOEpatents

Lee, David O.; Wayland, Jr., James R.

1989-01-01

Complex impedance measured over a predefined frequency range is used to determine the identity of different oils in a column. The location of an interface between the oils is determined from the percent frequency effects of the complex impedance measured across the interface.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Deng, Ye; Zhang, Ping; Qin, Yujia

When trying to discern network interactions among different species/populations in microbial communities interests have been evoked in recent years, but little information is available about temporal dynamics of microbial network interactions in response to environmental perturbations. We modified the random matrix theory-based network approach to discern network succession in groundwater microbial communities in response to emulsified vegetable oil (EVO) amendment for uranium bioremediation. Groundwater microbial communities from one control and seven monitor wells were analysed with a functional gene array (GeoChip 3.0), and functional molecular ecological networks (fMENs) at different time points were reconstructed. Our results showed that the networkmore » interactions were dramatically altered by EVO amendment. Dynamic and resilient succession was evident: fairly simple at the initial stage (Day 0), increasingly complex at the middle period (Days 4, 17, 31), most complex at Day 80, and then decreasingly complex at a later stage (140–269 days). Unlike previous studies in other habitats, negative interactions predominated in a time-series fMEN, suggesting strong competition among different microbial species in the groundwater systems after EVO injection. In particular, several keystone sulfate-reducing bacteria showed strong negative interactions with their network neighbours. These results provide mechanistic understanding of the decreased phylogenetic diversity during environmental perturbations.« less

Optimizing for Large Planar Fractures in Multistage Horizontal Wells in Enhanced Geothermal Systems Using a Coupled Fluid and Geomechanics Simulator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hu, Xiexiaomen; Tutuncu, Azra; Eustes, Alfred

Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) could potentially use technological advancements in coupled implementation of horizontal drilling and multistage hydraulic fracturing techniques in tight oil and shale gas reservoirs along with improvements in reservoir simulation techniques to design and create EGS reservoirs. In this study, a commercial hydraulic fracture simulation package, Mangrove by Schlumberger, was used in an EGS model with largely distributed pre-existing natural fractures to model fracture propagation during the creation of a complex fracture network. The main goal of this study is to investigate optimum treatment parameters in creating multiple large, planar fractures to hydraulically connect a horizontal injectionmore » well and a horizontal production well that are 10,000 ft. deep and spaced 500 ft. apart from each other. A matrix of simulations for this study was carried out to determine the influence of reservoir and treatment parameters on preventing (or aiding) the creation of large planar fractures. The reservoir parameters investigated during the matrix simulations include the in-situ stress state and properties of the natural fracture set such as the primary and secondary fracture orientation, average fracture length, and average fracture spacing. The treatment parameters investigated during the simulations were fluid viscosity, proppant concentration, pump rate, and pump volume. A final simulation with optimized design parameters was performed. The optimized design simulation indicated that high fluid viscosity, high proppant concentration, large pump volume and pump rate tend to minimize the complexity of the created fracture network. Additionally, a reservoir with 'friendly' formation characteristics such as large stress anisotropy, natural fractures set parallel to the maximum horizontal principal stress (SHmax), and large natural fracture spacing also promote the creation of large planar fractures while minimizing fracture complexity.« less

Hydraulic fracture propagation modeling and data-based fracture identification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Jing

Successful shale gas and tight oil production is enabled by the engineering innovation of horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing. Hydraulically induced fractures will most likely deviate from the bi-wing planar pattern and generate complex fracture networks due to mechanical interactions and reservoir heterogeneity, both of which render the conventional fracture simulators insufficient to characterize the fractured reservoir. Moreover, in reservoirs with ultra-low permeability, the natural fractures are widely distributed, which will result in hydraulic fractures branching and merging at the interface and consequently lead to the creation of more complex fracture networks. Thus, developing a reliable hydraulic fracturing simulator, including both mechanical interaction and fluid flow, is critical in maximizing hydrocarbon recovery and optimizing fracture/well design and completion strategy in multistage horizontal wells. A novel fully coupled reservoir flow and geomechanics model based on the dual-lattice system is developed to simulate multiple nonplanar fractures' propagation in both homogeneous and heterogeneous reservoirs with or without pre-existing natural fractures. Initiation, growth, and coalescence of the microcracks will lead to the generation of macroscopic fractures, which is explicitly mimicked by failure and removal of bonds between particles from the discrete element network. This physics-based modeling approach leads to realistic fracture patterns without using the empirical rock failure and fracture propagation criteria required in conventional continuum methods. Based on this model, a sensitivity study is performed to investigate the effects of perforation spacing, in-situ stress anisotropy, rock properties (Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, and compressive strength), fluid properties, and natural fracture properties on hydraulic fracture propagation. In addition, since reservoirs are buried thousands of feet below the surface, the parameters used in the reservoir flow simulator have large uncertainty. Those biased and uncertain parameters will result in misleading oil and gas recovery predictions. The Ensemble Kalman Filter is used to estimate and update both the state variables (pressure and saturations) and uncertain reservoir parameters (permeability). In order to directly incorporate spatial information such as fracture location and formation heterogeneity into the algorithm, a new covariance matrix method is proposed. This new method has been applied to a simplified single-phase reservoir and a complex black oil reservoir with complex structures to prove its capability in calibrating the reservoir parameters.

Simulation Study of CO2-EOR in Tight Oil Reservoirs with Complex Fracture Geometries

PubMed Central

Zuloaga-Molero, Pavel; Yu, Wei; Xu, Yifei; Sepehrnoori, Kamy; Li, Baozhen

2016-01-01

The recent development of tight oil reservoirs has led to an increase in oil production in the past several years due to the progress in horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing. However, the expected oil recovery factor from these reservoirs is still very low. CO2-based enhanced oil recovery is a suitable solution to improve the recovery. One challenge of the estimation of the recovery is to properly model complex hydraulic fracture geometries which are often assumed to be planar due to the limitation of local grid refinement approach. More flexible methods like the use of unstructured grids can significantly increase the computational demand. In this study, we introduce an efficient methodology of the embedded discrete fracture model to explicitly model complex fracture geometries. We build a compositional reservoir model to investigate the effects of complex fracture geometries on performance of CO2 Huff-n-Puff and CO2 continuous injection. The results confirm that the appropriate modelling of the fracture geometry plays a critical role in the estimation of the incremental oil recovery. This study also provides new insights into the understanding of the impacts of CO2 molecular diffusion, reservoir permeability, and natural fractures on the performance of CO2-EOR processes in tight oil reservoirs. PMID:27628131

Evidence of Microfossils in Carbonaceous Chondrites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoover, Richard B.; Rozanov, Alexei Y.; Zhmur, S. I.; Gorlenko, V. M.

1998-01-01

Investigations have been carried out on freshly broken, internal surfaces of the Murchison, Efremovka and Orgueil carbonaceous chondrites using Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM) in Russia and the Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope (ESEM) in the United States. These independent studies on different samples of the meteorites have resulted in the detection of numerous spherical and ellipsoidal bodies (some with spikes) similar to the forms of uncertain biogenicity that were designated "organized elements" by prior researchers. We have also encountered numerous complex biomorphic microstructures in these carbonaceous chondrites. Many of these complex bodies exhibit diverse characteristics reminiscent of microfossils of cyanobacteria such as we have investigated in ancient phosphorites and high carbon rocks (e.g. oil shales). Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and 2D elemental maps shows enhanced carbon content in the bodies superimposed upon the elemental distributions characteristic of the chondritic matrix. The size, distribution, composition, and indications of cell walls, reproductive and life cycle developmental stages of these bodies are strongly suggestive of biology' These bodies appear to be mineralized and embedded within the meteorite matrix, and can not be attributed to recent surface contamination effects. Consequently, we have interpreted these in-situ microstructures to represent the lithified remains of prokaryotes and filamentous cyanobacteria. We also detected in Orgueil microstructures morphologically similar to fibrous kerite crystals. We present images of many biomorphic microstructures and possible microfossils found in the Murchison, Efremovka, and Orgueil chondrites and compare these forms with known microfossils from the Cambrian phosphate-rich rocks (phosphorites) of Khubsugul, Northern Mongolia.

Biomimetic microbeads containing a chondroitin sulfate/chitosan polyelectrolyte complex for cell-based cartilage therapy.

PubMed

Daley, Ethan Lh; Coleman, Rhima M; Stegemann, Jan P

2015-10-28

Articular cartilage has a limited healing capacity that complicates the treatment of joint injuries and osteoarthritis. Newer repair strategies have focused on the use of cells and biomaterials to promote cartilage regeneration. In the present study, we developed and characterized bioinspired materials designed to mimic the composition of the cartilage extracellular matrix. Chondroitin sulfate (CS) and chitosan (CH) were used to form physically cross-linked macromolecular polyelectrolyte complexes (PEC) without the use of additional crosslinkers. A single-step water-in-oil emulsification process was used to either directly embed mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in PEC particles created with a various concentrations of CS and CH, or to co-embed MSC with PEC in agarose-based microbeads. Direct embedding of MSC in PEC resulted in high cell viability but irregular and large particles. Co-embedding of PEC particles with MSC in agarose (Ag) resulted in uniform microbeads 80-90 μm in diameter that maintained high cell viability over three weeks in culture. Increased serum content resulted in more uniform PEC distribution within the microbead matrix, and both high and low CS:CH ratios resulted in more homogeneous microbeads than 1:1 formulations. Under chondrogenic conditions, expression of sulfated GAG and collagen type II was increased in 10:1 CS:CH PEC-Ag microbeads compared to pure Ag beads, indicating a chondrogenic influence of the PEC component. Such PEC-Ag microbeads may have utility in the directed differentiation and delivery of progenitor cell populations for cartilage repair.

Solving chromatographic challenges in comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry using multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares.

PubMed

Parastar, Hadi; Radović, Jagoš R; Bayona, Josep M; Tauler, Roma

2013-07-01

Multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) analysis is proposed to solve chromatographic challenges during two-dimensional gas chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC-TOFMS) analysis of complex samples, such as crude oil extract. In view of the fact that the MCR-ALS method is based on the fulfillment of the bilinear model assumption, three-way and four-way GC × GC-TOFMS data are preferably arranged in a column-wise superaugmented data matrix in which mass-to-charge ratios (m/z) are in its columns and the elution times in the second and first chromatographic columns are in its rows. Since m/z values are common for all measured spectra in all second-column modulations, unavoidable chromatographic challenges such as retention time shifts within and between GC × GC-TOFMS experiments are properly handled. In addition, baseline/background contributions can be modeled by adding extra components to the MCR-ALS model. Another outstanding aspect of MCR-ALS analysis is its extreme flexibility to consider all samples (standards, unknowns, and replicates) in a single superaugmented data matrix, allowing joint analysis. In this way, resolution, identification, and quantification results can be simultaneously obtained in a very fast and reliable way. The potential of MCR-ALS analysis is demonstrated in GC × GC-TOFMS analysis of a North Sea crude oil extract sample with relative errors in estimated concentrations of target compounds below 6.0 % and relative standard deviations lower than 7.0 %. The results obtained, along with reasonable values for the lack of fit of the MCR-ALS model and high values of the reversed match factor in mass spectra similarity searches, confirm the reliability of the proposed strategy for GC × GC-TOFMS data analysis.

Pyrrole multimers and pyrrole-acetylene hydrogen bonded complexes studied in N2 and para-H2 matrixes using matrix isolation infrared spectroscopy and ab initio computations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarkar, Shubhra; Ramanathan, N.; Gopi, R.; Sundararajan, K.

2017-12-01

Hydrogen bonded interaction of pyrrole multimer and acetylene-pyrrole complexes were studied in N2 and p-H2 matrixes. DFT computations showed T-shaped geometry for the pyrrole dimer and cyclic complex for the trimer and tetramer were the most stable structures, stabilized by Nsbnd H⋯π interactions. The experimental vibrational wavenumbers observed in N2 and p-H2 matrixes for the pyrrole multimers were correlated with the computed wavenumbers. Computations performed at MP2/aug-cc-pVDZ level of theory showed that C2H2 and C4H5N forms 1:1 hydrogen-bonded complexes stabilized by Csbnd H⋯π interaction (Complex A), Nsbnd H⋯π interaction (Complex B) and π⋯π interaction (Complex C), where the former complex is the global minimum and latter two complexes were the first and second local minima, respectively. Experimentally, 1:1 C2H2sbnd C4H5N complexes A (global minimum) and B (first local minimum) were identified from the shifts in the Nsbnd H stretching, Nsbnd H bending, Csbnd H bending region of pyrrole and Csbnd H asymmetric stretching and bending region of C2H2 in N2 and p-H2 matrixes. Computations were also performed for the higher complexes and found two minima corresponding to the 1:2 C2H2sbnd C4H5N and three minima for the 2:1 C2H2sbnd C4H5N complexes. Experimentally the global minimum 1:2 and 2:1 C2H2sbnd C4H5N complexes were identified in N2 and p-H2 matrixes.

Identification of fluids and an interface between fluids by measuring complex impedance

DOEpatents

Lee, D.O.; Wayland, J.R. Jr.

1989-12-05

Complex impedance measured over a predefined frequency range is used to determine the identity of different oils in a column. The location of an interface between the oils is determined from the percent frequency effects of the complex impedance measured across the interface. 5 figs.

Synthetic Eelgrass Oil Barrier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Curtis, T. G.

2013-05-01

Although surviving in situ micro-organisms eventually consume spilled oil, extensive inundation of shore biota by oil requires cleanup to enable ecological recovery within normal time scales. Although effective in calm seas and quiet waters, oil is advected over and under conventional curtain oil booms by wave actions and currents when seas are running. Most sorbent booms are not reusable, and are usually disposed of in landfills, creating excessive waste. A new concept is proposed for a floating oil barrier, to be positioned off vulnerable coasts, to interdict, contain, and sequester spilled oil, which can then be recovered and the barrier reused. While conventional oil boom designs rely principally on the immiscibility of oil in water and its relative buoyancy, the new concept barrier avoids the pitfalls of the former by taking advantage of the synergistic benefits of numerous fluid and material properties, including: density, buoyancy, elasticity, polarity, and surface area to volume ratio. Modeled after Zostera marina, commonly called eelgrass, the new barrier, referred to as synthetic eelgrass (SE), behaves analogously. Eelgrass has very long narrow, ribbon-like, leaves which support periphyton, a complex matrix of algae and heterotrophic microbes, which position themselves there to extract nutrients from the seawater flowing past them. In an analogous fashion, oil on, or in, seawater, which comes in contact with SE, is adsorbed on the surface and sequestered there. Secured to the bottom, in shoal waters, SE rises to the surface, and, if the tide is low enough, floats on the sea surface down wind, or down current to snare floating oil. The leaves of SE, called filaments, consist of intrinsically buoyant strips of ethylene methyl acrylate, aka EMA. EMA, made of long chain, saturated, hydrocarbon molecules with nearly homogeneous electron charge distributions, is a non-polar material which is oleophilic and hydrophobic. Oil must be in close proximity to the surface of filaments because the physical, van der Waals, forces, the basis for their adhesion to the surface, are weak and act over only a short distance. SE can be deployed in a fashion similar to a demersal fishing "longline". Oil can be "caught" by replacing baited hooks and snoods with closely spaced filaments of EMA. Adsorption of floating oil requires the filaments be long enough to reach the surface, and float, as eelgrass at low tide, on the surface for some distance. Laying multiple, parallel, lines of SE offshore, makes it possible to recover each, one at a time, and replace it without breeching the barrier to oil that they form. As EMA is tough and elastic, with a large surface area to volume ratio, by virtue of being formed as an open-cell foam, considerable oil is adsorbed and can be recovered by squeezing the oil out of the filaments. Lines of SE can be redeployed and do not have to be discarded.

Isotherm and kinetic studies on adsorption of oil sands process-affected water organic compounds using granular activated carbon.

PubMed

Islam, Md Shahinoor; McPhedran, Kerry N; Messele, Selamawit A; Liu, Yang; Gamal El-Din, Mohamed

2018-07-01

The production of oil from oil sands in northern Alberta has led to the generation of large volumes of oil sands process-affected water (OSPW) that was reported to be toxic to aquatic and other living organisms. The toxicity of OSPW has been attributed to the complex nature of OSPW matrix including the inorganic and organic compounds primarily naphthenic acids (NAs: C n H 2n+Z O x ). In the present study, granular activated carbon (GAC) adsorption was investigated for its potential use to treat raw and ozonated OSPW. The results indicated that NA species removal increased with carbon number (n) for a fixed Z number; however, the NA species removal decreased with Z number for a fixed carbon number. The maximum adsorption capacities obtained from Langmuir adsorption isotherm based on acid-extractable fraction (AEF) and NAs were 98.5 mg and 60.9 mg AEF/g GAC and 60 mg and 37 mg NA/g GAC for raw and ozonated OSPW, respectively. It was found that the Freundlich isotherm model best fits the AEF and NA equilibrium data (r 2  ≥ 0.88). The adsorption kinetics showed that the pseudo-second order and intraparticle diffusion models were both appropriate in modeling the adsorption kinetics of AEF and NAs to GAC (r 2  ≥ 0.97). Although pore diffusion was the rate limiting step, film diffusion was still significant for assessing the rate of diffusion of NAs. This study could be helpful to model, design and optimize the adsorption treatment technologies of OSPW and to assess the performance of other adsorbents. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The origin of aliphatic hydrocarbons in olive oil.

PubMed

Pineda, Manuel; Rojas, María; Gálvez-Valdivieso, Gregorio; Aguilar, Miguel

2017-11-01

There are many substances that can interfere with olive oil quality. Some of them are well characterized, but many others have an unknown origin. Saturated hydrocarbons make an extraordinary complex family of numerous molecules, some of them present naturally in vegetable oils. When major natural saturated hydrocarbons are analyzed by standard chromatographic methods, this complex mixture of saturated hydrocarbons appears as a hump in the chromatogram and is commonly named as unresolved complex mixture (UCM), whose origin remains unknown. In this work we studied the occurrence and the origin of aliphatic saturated hydrocarbons in olive oil. Hydrocarbons were analyzed in olive oil and along the industrial process of oil extraction. We also analyzed n-alkanes and the UCM fraction of hydrocarbons in leaf, fruit and oil from different varieties and different locations, and we also analyzed the soils at these locations. We conclude that the hydrocarbons present in olive oil do not necessarily have their origin in a contamination during olive oil elaboration; they seem to have a natural origin, as a result of olive tree metabolism and/or as the result of an intake and accumulation by the olive tree directly from the environment during its entire life cycle. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Thermal and oxidative stability of the Ocimum basilicum L. essential oil/β-cyclodextrin supramolecular system

PubMed Central

Hădărugă, Nicoleta G; Costescu, Corina I; David, Ioan; Gruia, Alexandra T

2014-01-01

Summary Ocimum basilicum L. essential oil and its β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) complex have been investigated with respect to their stability against the degradative action of air/oxygen and temperature. This supramolecular system was obtained by a crystallization method in order to achieve the equilibrium of complexed–uncomplexed volatile compounds in an ethanol/water solution at 50 °C. Both the raw essential oil and its β-CD complex have been subjected to thermal and oxidative degradation conditions in order to evaluate the protective capacity of β-CD. The relative concentration of the O. basilicum L. essential oil compounds, as determined by GC–MS, varies accordingly with their sensitivity to the thermal and/or oxidative degradation conditions imposed. Furthermore, the relative concentration of the volatile O. basilicum L. compounds found in the β-CD complex is quite different in comparison with the raw material. An increase of the relative concentration of linalool oxide from 0.3% to 1.1%, in addition to many sesquiterpene oxides, has been observed. β-CD complexation of the O. basilicum essential oil modifies the relative concentration of the encapsulated volatile compounds. Thus, linalool was better encapsulated in β-CD, while methylchavicol (estragole) was encapsulated in β-CD at a concentration close to that of the raw essential oil. Higher relative concentrations from the degradation of the oxygenated compounds such as linalool oxide and aromadendren oxide were determined in the raw O. basilicum L. essential oil in comparison with the corresponding β-CD complex. For the first time, the protective capability of natural β-CD for labile basil essential oil compounds has been demonstrated. PMID:25550747

Essential Oils Loaded in Nanosystems: A Developing Strategy for a Successful Therapeutic Approach

PubMed Central

Bilia, Anna Rita; Guccione, Clizia; Isacchi, Benedetta; Righeschi, Chiara; Firenzuoli, Fabio; Bergonzi, Maria Camilla

2014-01-01

Essential oils are complex blends of a variety of volatile molecules such as terpenoids, phenol-derived aromatic components, and aliphatic components having a strong interest in pharmaceutical, sanitary, cosmetic, agricultural, and food industries. Since the middle ages, essential oils have been widely used for bactericidal, virucidal, fungicidal, antiparasitical, insecticidal, and other medicinal properties such as analgesic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, and locally anaesthetic remedies. In this review their nanoencapsulation in drug delivery systems has been proposed for their capability of decreasing volatility, improving the stability, water solubility, and efficacy of essential oil-based formulations, by maintenance of therapeutic efficacy. Two categories of nanocarriers can be proposed: polymeric nanoparticulate formulations, extensively studied with significant improvement of the essential oil antimicrobial activity, and lipid carriers, including liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid particles, and nano- and microemulsions. Furthermore, molecular complexes such as cyclodextrin inclusion complexes also represent a valid strategy to increase water solubility and stability and bioavailability and decrease volatility of essential oils. PMID:24971152

Formulation, in vitro and in vivo evaluation of transdermal patches containing risperidone.

PubMed

Aggarwal, Geeta; Dhawan, Sanju; Hari Kumar, S L

2013-01-01

The efficacy of oral risperidone treatment in prevention of schizophrenia is well known. However, oral side effects and patient compliance is always a problem for schizophrenics. In this study, risperidone was formulated into matrix transdermal patches to overcome these problems. The formulation factors for such patches, including eudragit RL 100 and eudragit RS 100 as matrix forming polymers, olive oil, groundnut oil and jojoba oil in different concentrations as enhancers and amount of drug loaded were investigated. The transdermal patches containing risperidone were prepared by solvent casting method and characterized for physicochemical and in vitro permeation studies through excised rat skin. Among the tested preparations, formulations with 20% risperidone, 3:2 ERL 100 and ERS 100 as polymers, mixture of olive oil and jojoba oil as enhancer, exhibited greatest cumulative amount of drug permeated (1.87 ± 0.09 mg/cm(2)) in 72 h, so batch ROJ was concluded as optimized formulation and assessed for pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and skin irritation potential. The pharmacokinetic characteristics of the optimized risperidone patch were determined using rabbits, while orally administered risperidone in solution was used for comparison. The calculated relative bioavailability of risperidone transdermal patch was 115.20% with prolonged release of drug. Neuroleptic efficacy of transdermal formulation was assessed by rota-rod and grip test in comparison with control and marketed oral formulations with no skin irritation. This suggests the transdermal application of risperidone holds promise for improved bioavailability and better management of schizophrenia in long-term basis.

Direct determination of fatty acid esters of 3-chloro-1, 2-propanediol in edible vegetable oils by isotope dilution - ultra high performance liquid chromatography - triple quadrupole mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Li, Heli; Chen, Dawei; Miao, Hong; Zhao, Yunfeng; Shen, Jianzhong; Wu, Yongning

2015-09-04

A selective and sensitive ultra-high performance liquid chromatography - triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method coupled with matrix solid phase dispersion (MSPD) extraction was developed for the direct determination of fatty acid esters of 3-chloro-1,2-propanediol (3-MCPD esters) in edible vegetable oils. The method integrated the isotope dilution technique, MSPD extraction and UHPLC - MS/MS analysis with multi-reaction monitoring mode (MRM). Matrix-matched calibration curves showed good linearity within the range of 0.01-10mgL(-1) with the correlation coefficient not less than 0.999. Limits of detection (LODs) and limit of quantification (LOQs) of the 3-MCPD esters fell into the range of 0.0001-0.02mgkg(-1) and 0.0004-0.05mgkg(-1), respectively. The recoveries for the spiked extra virgin olive oils ranged from 94.4% to 108.3%, with the relative standard deviations (RSD) ranging from 0.6% to 10.5%. The method was applied for the oil sample (T2642) of the official Food Analysis Performance Assessment Scheme (FAPAS) in 2014 and other real samples from supermarket, and the results showed that the present method was comparative to the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method based on the improved German Society for Fat Science (DGF) standard method C-III 18 (09) except for palm oil. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Synthesis and Performance Evaluation of a New Deoiling Agent for Treatment of Waste Oil-Based Drilling Fluids

PubMed Central

Liu, Pingting; Huang, Zhiyu; Deng, Hao; Wang, Rongsha; Xie, Shuixiang

2014-01-01

Oil-based drilling fluid is used more and more in the field of oil and gas exploration. However, because of unrecyclable treating agent and hard treatment conditions, the traditional treating technologies of waste oil-based drilling fluid have some defects, such as waste of resource, bulky equipment, complex treatment processes, and low oil recovery rate. In this work, switchable deoiling agent (SDA), as a novel surfactant for treatment of waste oil-based drilling fluid, was synthesized by amine, formic acid, and formaldehyde solution. With this agent, the waste oil-based drilling fluid can be treated without complex process and expensive equipment. Furthermore, the agent used in the treatment can be recycled, which reduces waste of resource and energy. The switch performance, deoiling performance, structural characterization, and mechanisms of action are studied. The experimental results show that the oil content of the recycled oil is higher than 96% and more than 93% oil in waste oil-based drilling fluid can be recycled. The oil content of the solid residues of deoiling is less than 3%. PMID:25045749

Synthesis and performance evaluation of a new deoiling agent for treatment of waste oil-based drilling fluids.

PubMed

Liu, Pingting; Huang, Zhiyu; Deng, Hao; Wang, Rongsha; Xie, Shuixiang

2014-01-01

Oil-based drilling fluid is used more and more in the field of oil and gas exploration. However, because of unrecyclable treating agent and hard treatment conditions, the traditional treating technologies of waste oil-based drilling fluid have some defects, such as waste of resource, bulky equipment, complex treatment processes, and low oil recovery rate. In this work, switchable deoiling agent (SDA), as a novel surfactant for treatment of waste oil-based drilling fluid, was synthesized by amine, formic acid, and formaldehyde solution. With this agent, the waste oil-based drilling fluid can be treated without complex process and expensive equipment. Furthermore, the agent used in the treatment can be recycled, which reduces waste of resource and energy. The switch performance, deoiling performance, structural characterization, and mechanisms of action are studied. The experimental results show that the oil content of the recycled oil is higher than 96% and more than 93% oil in waste oil-based drilling fluid can be recycled. The oil content of the solid residues of deoiling is less than 3%.

The analysis of composite properties reinforced with particles from palm oil industry waste produced by casting methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tugiman; Ariani, F.; Taher, F.; Hasibuan, M. S.; Suprianto

2017-12-01

Palm oil processing industries are very attractive because they offer plenty products with high economic value. The CPO factory processes not only produces crude palm oil but also generates fly ash (FA) particles waste in its final process. The purpose of this investigation to analyze and increase the benefits of particles as reinforcement materials for fabricating aluminum matrix composites (AMC’s) by different casting route. Stirring, centrifugal and squeeze casting method was conducted in this study. Further, the chemical composition of FA particles, densities and mechanical properties have been analyzed. The characteristics of composite material were investigated using an Optical microscope, scanning electron microscope (SEM), hardness (Brinell), impact strength (Charpy). The pin on disc method was used to measure the wear rate. The results show that SiO2, Fe2O3, and Al2O3 are the main compounds of fly ash particles. These particles enhanced the hardness and reduce wear resistance of aluminum matrix composites. The squeeze method gives better results than stir and centrifugal casting.

Evaluation of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with flame photometric detection: potential application for sulfur speciation in shale oil.

PubMed

Mitrevski, Blagoj; Amer, Mohammad W; Chaffee, Alan L; Marriott, Philip J

2013-11-25

Flame photometric detection in the sulfur channel has been evaluated for sulfur speciation and quantification in comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography [GC × GC-FPD(S)] for S-compound speciation in shale extracts. Signal non-linearity and potential quenching effects were reportedly major limitations of this detector for analysis of sulfur in complex matrices. However, reliable linear relationships with correlation coefficient >0.99 can be obtained if the sum of the square root of each modulation slice in GC × GC is plotted vs. sulfur concentration. Furthermore, the quenching effects are reduced due to essentially complete separation of S-containing components from the hydrocarbon matrix. An increase of S/N of up to 150 times has been recorded for benzothiophene and dibenzothiophene in GC × GC-FPD when compared to GC-FPD due to the modulation process. As a consequence, 10 times lower detection limits were observed in the former mode. The applicability of the method was demonstrated using shale oil sample extracts. Three sulfur classes were completely separated and the target class (thiophenes) was successfully quantified after the rest of the sample was diverted to the second detector by using a heart-cut strategy. Based on the proposed method, 70% of the sulfur in the shale oil was assigned to the thiophenes, 24% to benzothiophenes, and 5% to dibenzothiophene compounds. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Lacustrine Environment Reservoir Properties on Sandstone Minerals and Hydrocarbon Content: A Case Study on Doba Basin, Southern Chad

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sumery, N. F. Mohd; Lo, S. Z.; Salim, A. M. A.

2017-10-01

The contribution of lacustrine environment as the hydrocarbon reservoir has been widely known. However, despite its growing importance, the lacustrine petroleum geology has received far less attention than marine due to its sedimentological complexity. This study therefore aims in developing an understanding of the unique aspects of lacustrine reservoirs which eventually impacts the future exploration decisions. Hydrocarbon production in Doba Basin, particularly the northern boundary, for instance, has not yet succeeded due to the unawareness of its depositional environment. The drilling results show that the problems were due to the: radioactive sand and waxy oil/formation damage, which all are related to the lacustrine depositional environment. Detailed study of geological and petrophysical integration on wireline logs and petrographic thin sections analysis of this environment helps in distinguishing reservoir and non-reservoir areas and determining the possible mechanism causing the failed DST results. The interpretations show that the correlation of all types> of logs and rho matrix analysis are capable in identifying sand and shale bed despite of the radioactive sand present. The failure of DST results were due to the presence of arkose in sand and waxy oil in reservoir bed. This had been confirmed by the petrographic thin section analysis where the arkose has mineral twinning effect indicate feldspar and waxy oil showing bright colour under fluorescent light. Understanding these special lacustrine environment characteristics and features will lead to a better interpretation of hydrocarbon prospectivity for future exploration.

A strategy for simultaneous determination of fatty acid composition, fatty acid position, and position-specific isotope contents in triacylglycerol matrices by 13C-NMR.

PubMed

Merchak, Noelle; Silvestre, Virginie; Loquet, Denis; Rizk, Toufic; Akoka, Serge; Bejjani, Joseph

2017-01-01

Triacylglycerols, which are quasi-universal components of food matrices, consist of complex mixtures of molecules. Their site-specific 13 C content, their fatty acid profile, and their position on the glycerol moiety may significantly vary with the geographical, botanical, or animal origin of the sample. Such variables are valuable tracers for food authentication issues. The main objective of this work was to develop a new method based on a rapid and precise 13 C-NMR spectroscopy (using a polarization transfer technique) coupled with multivariate linear regression analyses in order to quantify the whole set of individual fatty acids within triacylglycerols. In this respect, olive oil samples were analyzed by means of both adiabatic 13 C-INEPT sequence and gas chromatography (GC). For each fatty acid within the studied matrix and for squalene as well, a multivariate prediction model was constructed using the deconvoluted peak areas of 13 C-INEPT spectra as predictors, and the data obtained by GC as response variables. This 13 C-NMR-based strategy, tested on olive oil, could serve as an alternative to the gas chromatographic quantification of individual fatty acids in other matrices, while providing additional compositional and isotopic information. Graphical abstract A strategy based on the multivariate linear regression of variables obtained by a rapid 13 C-NMR technique was developed for the quantification of individual fatty acids within triacylglycerol matrices. The conceived strategy was tested on olive oil.

Linalool from Lippia alba: study of the reproducibility of the essential oil profile and the enantiomeric purity.

PubMed

Siani, Antonio C; Tappin, Marcelo R R; Ramos, Mônica F S; Mazzei, José L; Ramos, Maria Conceição K V; De Aquino Neto, Francisco R; Frighetto, Nélson

2002-06-05

A new chemotype of the aromatic Verbenaceae species Lippia alba Mill. N. E. Br. from southeastern Brazil has recently been shown to have a high content of linalool in the leaf essential oil. Vegetative propagation of this chemotype was conducted at six different locations in Brazil, and the variation of the content and the optical purity of linalool in the oils were verified. Yields (0.6-0.9%, hydrodistillation), chemical composition, linalool content, and optical purity of the oils from all the plants were compared, using GC-FID, GC-MS, chiral chromatography, and retention index calculation. No plant exceeded the matrix in linalool content (46.5 to 90.7%), and the chemical profile of the oils was the same for all the samples. Purification of linalool to a content close to 100% was effected by vacuum distillation of the crude oil. Chiral analysis showed exclusively the presence of S-linalool in all the crude oils and in the distilled samples.

Textural and viscoelastic properties of pork frankfurters containing canola-olive oils, rice bran, and walnut.

PubMed

Álvarez, D; Xiong, Y L; Castillo, M; Payne, F A; Garrido, M D

2012-09-01

Textural, rheological and microstructural properties of frankfurters made with 20% pork backfat, 20% canola or 20% canola-olive (3:1) oils, including rice bran (RB) and walnut extract (WE) as macronutrients (2.5%) were investigated. Textural parameters, including hardness, gumminess and rupture-force, were highly (P<0.05) influenced by the fat-oil composition. Addition of RB or WE in vegetable oil emulsions improved textural consistency (P<0.05). However, RB addition reduced gelling capacity, suggesting antagonistic interactions between fiber and oil droplets. Vegetable oil addition favored gel network formation, and, when combined with WE, showed the highest improvement of gel elasticity. These textural and gelling properties were corroborated by frankfurter micrographs, which revealed interactions between vegetable oils, RB, or WE with protein matrix and fat globules affecting these parameters. The results suggest that functional plant-derived ingredients can be valuable to the modification of frankfurter formulations for improved nutrition and as well as textural quality. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Application of fluorescence and PARAFAC to assess vertical distribution of subsurface hydrocarbons and dispersant during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

PubMed

Mendoza, Wilson G; Riemer, Daniel D; Zika, Rod G

2013-05-01

We evaluated the use of excitation and emission matrix (EEM) fluorescence and parallel factorial analysis (PARAFAC) modeling techniques for monitoring crude oil components in the water column. Four of the seven derived PARAFAC loadings were associated with the Macondo crude oil components. The other three components were associated with the dispersant, an unresolved component and colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM). The fluorescence of the associated benzene and naphthalene-like components of crude oil exhibited a maximum at ∼1200 m. The maximum fluorescence of the component associated with the dispersant (i.e., Corexit EC9500A) was observed at the same depth. The plume observed at this depth was attributed to the dispersed crude oil from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Results demonstrate the application of EEM and PARAFAC to simultaneously monitor selected PAH, dispersant-containing and humic-like fluorescence components in the oil spill region in the Gulf of Mexico.

The occurrence and behavior of radium in saline formation water of the U.S. Gulf Coast region.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kraemer, T.F.; Reid, D.F.

1984-01-01

Ra was measured in deep saline formation waters produced from a variety of US Gulf Coast subsurface environments, including oil and gas reservoirs, and water-producing geopressured aquifers. A strong positive correlation was found between formation-water salinity and Ra activity, resulting from the interaction of formation water with aquifer matrix. Ra isotopes enter the fluid phase after being produced by the decay of parent elements U and Th on and within the solid matrix. The processes believed to be primarily responsible for transfering Ra from matrix to formation water are chemical leaching and alpha -particle recoil. Factors controlling the observed salinity-Ra relationship may be one or a combination of the following: 1) ion exchange; 2) increased solubility of matrix silica surrounding Ra atoms, coupled with a salinity-controlled rate of re-equilibration of silica between solution and quartz grains; and 3) the equilibration of Ra in solution with detrital baryte within the aquifer. No difference was found in the brine-Ra relation in water produced from oil or gas wells and water produced from wells penetrating only water-bearing aquifers, although the relation was more highly correlated for water-bearing aquifers than hydrocarbon-containing reservoirs.-P.Br.

The occurrence and behavior of radium in saline formation water of the U.S. Gulf Coast region

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kraemer, T.F.; Reid, D.F.

1984-01-01

Radium has been measured in deep saline formation waters produced from a variety of U.S. Gulf Coast subsurface environments, including oil reservoirs, gas reservoirs and water-producing geopressured aquifers. A strong positive correlation has been found between formation-water salinity and Ra activity, resulting from the interaction of formation water with aquifer matrix. Ra isotopes enter the fluid phase after being produced by the decay of parent elements U and Th, which are located at sites on and within the solid matrix. Processes that are belived to be primarily responsible for transferring Ra from matrix to formation water are chemical leaching and alpha-particle recoil. Factors controlling the observed salinity-Ra relationship may be one or a combination of the following factors: (a) ion exchange; (b) increased solubility of matrix silica surrounding Ra atoms, coupled with a salinity-controlled rate of reequilibration of silica between solution and quartz grains; and (c) the equilibration of Ra in solution with detrial barite within the aquifer. No difference was found in the brine-Ra relation in water produced from oil or gas wells and water produced from wells penetrating only water-bearing aquifers, although the relation was more highly correlated for water-bearing aquifers than hydrocarbon-containing reservoirs. ?? 1984.

Tungsten hydride complex as a template in organic inorganic hybrid materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montinho, Isilda; Boev, Victor; Fonseca, António M.; Silva, Carlos J. R.; Neves, Isabel C.

2003-03-01

A tungsten hydride complex, [WH 2( η2-OOCCH 3)(Ph 2PCH 2CH 2PPh 2) 2][BPh 4], was dispersed in a hybrid matrix synthesized by a sol-gel process. The host matrix of the so-called ureasil is a network of silica to which oligopolyoxyethylene chains [POE, (OCH 2CH 2) n] are grafted by means of urea cross-links. The free complex and sol-gel materials were characterized by thermal analysis (DSC) and spectroscopic methods (FT-IR and UV/Vis). The data gathered indicate that the tungsten(IV) complex is immobilized in the host matrix, and it exhibits structural properties different from those of the free form. These differences could arise either from distortions caused by steric effects imposed by the structure of hybrid matrix or by interactions with the matrix.

LC-MS/MS signal suppression effects in the analysis of pesticides in complex environmental matrices.

PubMed

Choi, B K; Hercules, D M; Gusev, A I

2001-02-01

The application of LC separation and mobile phase additives in addressing LC-MS/MS matrix signal suppression effects for the analysis of pesticides in a complex environmental matrix was investigated. It was shown that signal suppression is most significant for analytes eluting early in the LC-MS analysis. Introduction of different buffers (e.g. ammonium formate, ammonium hydroxide, formic acid) into the LC mobile phase was effective in improving signal correlation between the matrix and standard samples. The signal improvement is dependent on buffer concentration as well as LC separation of the matrix components. The application of LC separation alone was not effective in addressing suppression effects when characterizing complex matrix samples. Overloading of the LC column by matrix components was found to significantly contribute to analyte-matrix co-elution and suppression of signal. This signal suppression effect can be efficiently compensated by 2D LC (LC-LC) separation techniques. The effectiveness of buffers and LC separation in improving signal correlation between standard and matrix samples is discussed.

Enhanced oil displacement by nanofluid's structural disjoining pressure in model fractured porous media.

PubMed

Zhang, Hua; Ramakrishnan, T S; Nikolov, Alex; Wasan, Darsh

2018-02-01

Nanofluids for improved oil recovery has been demonstrated through laboratory corefloods. Despite numerous experimental studies, little is known about the efficacy of nanofluids in fractured systems. Here, we present studies of nanofluid injection in fractured porous media (both water-wet and oil-wet) formed by sintering borosilicate glass-beads around a dissolvable substrate. The fracture inside the porous medium is characterized and visualized using a high resolution X-ray microtomography. Based on a simple displacement theory, the nanofluid injection is conducted at a rate where structural disjoining pressure driven oil recovery is operational. An additional 23.8% oil was displaced using nanofluid after brine injection with an overall recovery efficiency of 90.4% provided the matrix was in its native wettability state. But only 6% additional oil was displaced by nanofluid following brine injection when the bead-pack was rendered oil-wet. Nanofluids appear to be a good candidate for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) in fractured water-wet to weakly water-wet media but not necessarily for strongly oil-wet systems. Our laboratory studies enable us to understand limitations of nanofluids for improving oil recovery in fractured media. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Effect of β-cyclodextrin inclusion complex on transport of major components of Xiangfu Siwu decoction essential oil in Caco-2 cell monolayer model].

PubMed

Xi, Jun-zuan; Qian, Da-wei; Duan, Jin-ao; Liu, Pei; Zhu, Yue; Zhu, Zhen-hua; Zhang, Li

2015-08-01

Although the essential oil of Xiangfu Siwu decoction (XFSWD) has strong pharmacological activity, its special physical and chemical properties restrict the clinical application and curative effect. In this paper, Xiangfu Siwu decoction essential oil (XFS-WO) was prepared by forming inclusion complex with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD). The present study is to investigate the effect of β-CD inclusion complex on the transport of major components of XFSWO using Caco-2 cell monolayer model, thus to research the effect of this formation on the absorption of drugs with low solubility and high permeability, which belong to class 2 in biopharmaceutics classification system. A sensitive and rapid UPLC-MS/MS method was developed for simultaneous quantification of senkyunolide A, 3-n-butylphthalide, Z-ligustilide, dehydrocostus lactone and α-cyperone, which are active compounds in XFSWO. The transport parameters were analyzed and compared in free oil and its β-CD inclusion complex. The result revealed that the formation of XFSWO/β-CD inclusion complex has significantly increased the transportation and absorption of major active ingredients than free oil. Accordingly, it can be speculated that cyclodextrin inclusion complex can improve bioavailability of poorly water-soluble drugs. Above all these mentioned researches, it provided foundation and basis for physiological disposition and pharmaceutical study of XFSWD.

Low-Cost Oil Quality Sensor Based on Changes in Complex Permittivity

PubMed Central

Pérez, Angel Torres; Hadfield, Mark

2011-01-01

Real time oil quality monitoring techniques help to protect important industry assets, minimize downtime and reduce maintenance costs. The measurement of a lubricant’s complex permittivity is an effective indicator of the oil degradation process and it can be useful in condition based maintenance (CBM) to select the most adequate oil replacement maintenance schedules. A discussion of the working principles of an oil quality sensor based on a marginal oscillator to monitor the losses of the dielectric at high frequencies (>1 MHz) is presented. An electronic design procedure is covered which results in a low cost, effective and ruggedized sensor implementation suitable for use in harsh environments. PMID:22346666

DISPERSANT EFFECTIVENESS ON THREE OILS UNDER VARIOUS SIMULATED ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

EPA Science Inventory

The complexity of chemical and physical interactions between spilled oils, dispersants and the sea, necessitates an empirical approach for describing the interaction between the dispersant and oil slick which may provide a guide to dispersant effects on oil slicks. Recently, US ...

Enhancement of oil degradation by co-culture of hydrocarbon degrading and biosurfactant producing bacteria.

PubMed

Kumar, Manoj; Leon, Vladimir; Materano, Angela De Sisto; Ilzins, Olaf A

2006-01-01

In this study the biodegradation of oil by hydrocarbon degrading Pseudomonas putida in the presence of a biosurfactant-producing bacterium was investigated. The co-culture of test organisms exhibited improved degradation capacities, in a reproducible fashion, in aqueous and soil matrix in comparison to the individual bacterium culture. Results indicate that the in situ biosurfactant production not only resulted in increased emulsification of the oil but also change the adhesion of the hydrocarbon to cell surface of other bacterium. The understanding of interactions beetwen microbes may provide opportunities to further enhancement of contaminants biodegradation by making a suitable blend for bioaugmentation.

Advanced analytical techniques for the extraction and characterization of plant-derived essential oils by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Waseem, Rabia; Low, Kah Hin

2015-02-01

In recent years, essential oils have received a growing interest because of the positive health effects of their novel characteristics such as antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant activities. For the extraction of plant-derived essential oils, there is the need of advanced analytical techniques and innovative methodologies. An exhaustive study of hydrodistillation, supercritical fluid extraction, ultrasound- and microwave-assisted extraction, solid-phase microextraction, pressurized liquid extraction, pressurized hot water extraction, liquid-liquid extraction, liquid-phase microextraction, matrix solid-phase dispersion, and gas chromatography (one- and two-dimensional) hyphenated with mass spectrometry for the extraction through various plant species and analysis of essential oils has been provided in this review. Essential oils are composed of mainly terpenes and terpenoids with low-molecular-weight aromatic and aliphatic constituents that are particularly important for public health. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Formulation of bacterial consortium as whole cell biocatalyst for degradation of oil compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yetti, Elvi; A'la, Amalia; Luthfiyah, Nailul; Wijaya, Hans; Thontowi, Ahmad; Yopi

2017-11-01

In this research, weaim to investigateformulation of bacterial consortium as whole cell biocatalyst for degradation of oil compounds. We constructed microbial consortium from 4 (four) selected marine oil bacteria to become 15 (twelve) combination culture. Those bacteria were from collection of Laboratory of Biocatalyst and Fermentation, Research Center for Biotechnology, Indonesian Institutes of Sciences and designated as Labrenzia sp. MBTDCMFRIMab26, Labrenzia aggregata strasin HQB397, Novosphingobium pentaromativorans strain PQ-3 16S, and Novosphingobium pentaromativorans strain US6-1. The mixture or bacteria consortia, denoted as F1, F2, …F15 consisted of 1, 2, 3 and 4 bacterial strains, respectively. The strains were selected based on the criteria that they were able to display good growth in crude oil containing media. Five bacterialformulationsshowed good potentialas candidates for microbial consortium. We will optimize these consortium with carrier matrix choosed from biomass materials and also carry out oil content analysis.

Attachment of a hydrophobically modified biopolymer at the oil-water interface in the treatment of oil spills.

PubMed

Venkataraman, Pradeep; Tang, Jingjian; Frenkel, Etham; McPherson, Gary L; He, Jibao; Raghavan, Srinivasa R; Kolesnichenko, Vladimir; Bose, Arijit; John, Vijay T

2013-05-01

The stability of crude oil droplets formed by adding chemical dispersants can be considerably enhanced by the use of the biopolymer, hydrophobically modified chitosan. Turbidimetric analyses show that emulsions of crude oil in saline water prepared using a combination of the biopolymer and the well-studied chemical dispersant (Corexit 9500A) remain stable for extended periods in comparison to emulsions stabilized by the dispersant alone. We hypothesize that the hydrophobic residues from the polymer preferentially anchor in the oil droplets, thereby forming a layer of the polymer around the droplets. The enhanced stability of the droplets is due to the polymer layer providing an increase in electrostatic and steric repulsions and thereby a large barrier to droplet coalescence. Our results show that the addition of hydrophobically modified chitosan following the application of chemical dispersant to an oil spill can potentially reduce the use of chemical dispersants. Increasing the molecular weight of the biopolymer changes the rheological properties of the oil-in-water emulsion to that of a weak gel. The ability of the biopolymer to tether the oil droplets in a gel-like matrix has potential applications in the immobilization of surface oil spills for enhanced removal.

Characteristic Fracture Spacing in Primary and Secondary Recovery from Naturally Fractured Reservoirs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gong, J.; Rossen, W.

2015-12-01

We showed previously (Gong and Rossen, 2014a,b) that, if the fracture aperture distribution is broad enough in a naturally fractured reservoir, even one where the fracture network is well-connected, most fractures can be eliminated without significantly affecting the flow through the fracture network. During a waterflood or enhanced-oil-recovery (EOR) process, the production of oil depends on the supply of injected water or EOR agent. This suggests that the characteristic fracture spacing for the dual-porosity/dual-permeability simulation of waterflood or EOR in a naturally fractured reservoir should account not for all fractures but only the relatively small portion of the fracture network carrying almost all the injected water or EOR agent. In contrast, in primary production even a relatively small fracture represents an effective path for oil to flow to a production well. Thus in primary production the effective fracture spacing should include all the fractures. This distinction means that the "shape factor" in dual-porosity/dual-permeability reservoir simulators and the repeating unit in homogenization should depend on the process involved: specifically, it should be different for primary and secondary or tertiary recovery. We test this hypothesis in a simple representation of a fractured reservoir with a non-uniform distribution of fracture flow conductivities. We compare oil production, flow patterns in matrix, and the pattern of oil recovery around fractures with and without the "unimportant" fractures present. In primary production, all fractures which are much more permeable than matrix play a significant role in production. The shape factor or repeating-unit size should reflect the entire fracture distribution. In secondary or tertiary production, the role of fractures that carry relatively little flow depends on injection rate, the ratio of flow carried by the different fractures, and the permeability of matrix. In some cases, the appropriate shape factor or repeating-unit size for waterflood or EOR should reflect only those fractures that carry most of the flow. References:Gong, and Rossen, 14th ECMOR Conf., Catania, Sicily, 2014(a). Gong, and Rossen, Intl. Discrete Fracture Network Eng. Conf., Vancouver, Canada, 2014(b).

Stabilization of NaCl-containing cuttings wastes in cement concrete by in situ formed mineral phases.

PubMed

Filippov, Lev; Thomas, Fabien; Filippova, Inna; Yvon, Jacques; Morillon-Jeanmaire, Anne

2009-11-15

Disposal of NaCl-containing cuttings is a major environmental concern due to the high solubility of chlorides. The present work aims at reducing the solubility of chloride by encapsulation in low permeability matrix as well as lowering its solubility by trapping into low-solubility phases. Both the studied materials were cuttings from an oil-based mud in oil drillings containing about 50% of halite, and cuttings in water-based mud from gas drilling containing 90% of halite. A reduction in the amount of dissolved salt from 41 to 19% according to normalized leaching tests was obtained by addition of potassium ortho-phosphate in the mortar formula of oil-based cuttings, while the aluminium dihydrogeno-phosphate is even more efficient for the stabilization of water-based cuttings with a NaCl content of 90%. Addition of ortho-phosphate leads to form a continuous and weakly soluble network in the cement matrix, which reduces the release of salt. The formed mineralogical phases were apatite and hydrocalumite. These phases encapsulate the salt grains within a network, thus lowering its interaction with water or/and trap chloride into low-solubility phases. The tested approaches allow to develop a confinement process of NaCl-containing waste of various compositions that can be applied to wastes, whatever the salt content and the nature of the drilling fluids (water or oil).

Influence of palm oil and glycerol on properties of fish skin gelatin-based films.

PubMed

Nilsuwan, Krisana; Benjakul, Soottawat; Prodpran, Thummanoon

2016-06-01

Properties of fish skin gelatin film incorporated with palm oil at 50 and 75 % (w/w) as affected by glycerol at 0-30 % (w/w) were investigated. Increases in water vapour permeability and elongation at break along with decrease in tensile strength were noticed when levels of glycerol were increased (p < 0.05). Decrease in L*- and a*-values with coincidental increase in b*- and ΔE*-values were observed in emulsified films when amount of palm oil incorporated increased (p < 0.05). Light transmittance of all films increased as glycerol levels were increased (p < 0.05). FTIR results suggested that the protein-protein interaction in film matrix decreased when palm oil was incorporated. Films added with palm oil had lower glass transition and degradation temperatures than control films. The addition of 75 % palm oil and 10 % glycerol improved water vapour barrier property of fish skin gelatin films without drastic alteration of mechanical properties.

Encapsulation of vegetable oils as source of omega-3 fatty acids for enriched functional foods.

PubMed

Ruiz Ruiz, Jorge Carlos; Ortiz Vazquez, Elizabeth De La Luz; Segura Campos, Maira Rubi

2017-05-03

Polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids (PUFAs), a functional component present in vegetable oils, are generally recognized as being beneficial to health. Omega-3 PUFAs are rich in double bonds and unsaturated in nature; this attribute makes them highly susceptible to lipid oxidation and unfit for incorporation into long shelf life foods. The microencapsulation of oils in a polymeric matrix (mainly polysaccharides) offers the possibility of controlled release of the lipophilic functional ingredient and can be useful for the supplementation of foods with PUFAs. The present paper provides a literature review of different vegetable sources of omega-3 fatty acids, the functional effects of omega-3 fatty acids, different microencapsulation methods that can possibly be used for the encapsulation of oils, the properties of vegetable oil microcapsules, the effect of encapsulation on oxidation stability and fatty acid composition of vegetable oils, and the incorporation of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in foods.

Hydrocarbon-mediated gold and uranium concentration in the Witwatersrand Basin, South Africa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fuchs, Sebastian; Williams-Jones, Anthony; Schumann, Dirk; Couillard, Martin; Murray, Andrew

2016-04-01

The Witwatersrand deposits in South Africa represent the largest repository of gold in the World and a major resource of uranium. The genesis of the gold and uranium ores in the quartz-pebble conglomerates (reefs), however, is still a matter of considerable discussion. Opinion has been divided over whether they represent paleo-placers that have been partly remobilised by hydrothermal fluids or if the mineralisation is entirely hydrothermal in origin. In addition, recently published models have proposed a syngenetic origin for the gold involving bacterially-mediated precipitation from meteoric water and shallow seawater. An important feature of the gold and uranium mineralisation in the reefs is the strong spatial association with organic matter. In some reefs, up to 70% of the gold and almost the entire uranium resource is spatially associated with pyrobitumen seams, suggesting a genetic relationship of the gold-uranium mineralisation with hydrocarbons. Here we report results of a study of the Carbon Leader Reef, using high-resolution scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM / TEM) and LA-ICP-MS that provide new insights into the role of hydrocarbons in the concentration of the gold and uranium. A detailed examination revealed gold monocrystals containing numerous rounded or elliptical inclusions filled with pyrobitumen. We interpret these inclusions to record the crystallisation of the gold around droplets of a hydrocarbon liquid that migrated through the Witwatersrand basin, and was converted to pyrobitumen by being heated. We propose that the gold was transported in a hydrothermal fluid as a bisulphide complex and that this fluid mixed with the hydrocarbon liquid to form a water-oil emulsion. The interaction between the two fluids caused a sharp reduction in fO2 at the water-oil interface, which destabilised the gold-bisulphide complexes, causing gold monocrystals to precipitate around the oil droplets. In contrast to the gold, uraninite, the principal uranium mineral, occurs as complex-shaped grains that represent aggregates containing billions of uraninite nanocrystals (5 - 7 nm in diameter), which grew in situ in the pyrobitumen matrix or more likely its liquid precursor (Fuchs et al., 2015). This in situ growth of isolated nanocrystalline aggregates shows that uranium was mobilised and concentrated by liquid hydrocarbons, and that uraninite nanocrystals were released from the oils during the conversion of oil to pyrobitumen. Our study provides new insights into the complex mechanisms of ore formation in the Witwatersrand Supergroup and compelling evidence that hydrocarbons played a major role in the concentration of the gold and uranium. It does not rule out the possibility that gold and uranium were introduced into the Witwatersrand Basin as detrital grains but shows that mobilisation of gold and uranium by hydrothermal fluids and hydrocarbon liquids, respectively, and the mixing of these fluids, were essential to ore formation. Fuchs, S., Schumann, D., Williams-Jones, A.E., Vali, H., 2015. The growth and concentration of uranium and titanium minerals in hydrocarbons of the Carbon Leader Reef, Witwatersrand Supergroup, South Africa. Chemical Geology 393-394, 55-66.

Fast and stable algorithms for computing the principal square root of a complex matrix

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shieh, Leang S.; Lian, Sui R.; Mcinnis, Bayliss C.

1987-01-01

This note presents recursive algorithms that are rapidly convergent and more stable for finding the principal square root of a complex matrix. Also, the developed algorithms are utilized to derive the fast and stable matrix sign algorithms which are useful in developing applications to control system problems.

Current status of deepwater oil spill modelling in the Faroe-Shetland Channel, Northeast Atlantic, and future challenges.

PubMed

Gallego, Alejandro; O'Hara Murray, Rory; Berx, Barbara; Turrell, William R; Beegle-Krause, C J; Inall, Mark; Sherwin, Toby; Siddorn, John; Wakelin, Sarah; Vlasenko, Vasyl; Hole, Lars R; Dagestad, Knut Frode; Rees, John; Short, Lucy; Rønningen, Petter; Main, Charlotte E; Legrand, Sebastien; Gutierrez, Tony; Witte, Ursula; Mulanaphy, Nicole

2018-02-01

As oil reserves in established basins become depleted, exploration and production moves towards relatively unexploited areas, such as deep waters off the continental shelf. The Faroe-Shetland Channel (FSC, NE Atlantic) and adjacent areas have been subject to increased focus by the oil industry. In addition to extreme depths, metocean conditions in this region characterise an environment with high waves and strong winds, strong currents, complex circulation patterns, sharp density gradients, and large small- and mesoscale variability. These conditions pose operational challenges to oil spill response and question the suitability of current oil spill modelling frameworks (oil spill models and their forcing data) to adequately simulate the behaviour of a potential oil spill in the area. This article reviews the state of knowledge relevant to deepwater oil spill modelling for the FSC area and identifies knowledge gaps and research priorities. Our analysis should be relevant to other areas of complex oceanography. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Complex torso reconstruction with human acellular dermal matrix: long-term clinical follow-up.

PubMed

Nemeth, Nicole L; Butler, Charles E

2009-01-01

Although reports have demonstrated good early outcomes with human acellular dermal matrix even when used for complex, contaminated defects, no long-term outcomes have been reported. The authors reviewed the long-term outcomes of 13 patients who had complex torso reconstructions that included human acellular dermal matrix. All patients were at increased risk for mesh-related complications. Eight patients died as a result of progression of their oncologic disease at a mean of 258 days postoperatively. The mean follow-up for the remaining five patients was 43.7 months. Six patients had early complications (none were human acellular dermal matrix-related) and were reported on previously. Two patients had developed complications since the initial report. One patient developed a flap donor-site seroma remote from the reconstruction site, and another developed a recurrent ventral hernia. No patients have required additional surgery for human acellular dermal matrix-related complications. This follow-up report indicates that human acellular dermal matrix repair of large, complex torso defects can result in good long-term outcomes even when patients are at high risk for mesh-related complications.

Saturation dependence of the quadrature conductivity of oil-bearing sands

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmutz, M.; Blondel, A.; Revil, A.

2012-02-01

We have investigated the complex conductivity of oil-bearing sands with six distinct oil types including sunflower oil, silicone oil, gum rosin, paraffin, engine oil, and an industrial oil of complex composition. In all these experiments, the oil was the non-wetting phase. The in-phase (real) conductivity follows a power law relationship with the saturation (also known as the second Archie's law) but with a saturation exponent n raging from 1.1 to 3.1. In most experiments, the quadrature conductivity follows also a power law relationship with the water saturation but with a power law exponent p can be either positive or negative. For some samples, the quadrature conductivity first increases with saturation and then decreases indicating that two processes compete in controlling the quadrature conductivity. One is related to the insulating nature of the oil phase and a second could be associated with the surface area of the oil / water interface. The quadrature conductivity seems to be influenced not only by the value of the saturation exponent n (according to the Vinegar and Waxman model, p = n - 1), but also by the surface area between the oil phase and the water phase especially for very water-repellent oil having a fractal oil-water interface.

Physico-chemical characterization and antibacterial activity of inclusion complexes of Hyptis martiusii Benth essential oil in β-cyclodextrin.

PubMed

Andrade, Tatianny A; Freitas, Thiago S; Araújo, Francielly O; Menezes, Paula P; Dória, Grace Anne A; Rabelo, Alessandra S; Quintans-Júnior, Lucindo J; Santos, Márcio R V; Bezerra, Daniel P; Serafini, Mairim R; Menezes, Irwin Rose A; Nunes, Paula Santos; Araújo, Adriano A S; Costa, Maria S; Campina, Fábia F; Santos, Antonia T L; Silva, Ana R P; Coutinho, Henrique D M

2017-05-01

Cyclodextrins (CDs) have been used as important pharmaceutical excipients for improve the physicochemical properties of the drugs of low solubility as the essential oil of Hyptis martiusii. This oil is important therapeutically, but the low solubility and bioavailability compromises your use. Therein, the aim of this study was to obtain and to characterize physico-chemically the samples obtained by physical mixture (PM), paste complexation (PC) and slurry complexation (SC) of the essential oil Hyptis martiusii (EOHM) in β-CD, and to compare the antibacterial and modulatory-antibiotic activity of products obtained and oil free. The physicochemical characterization was performed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry/derivative thermogravimetry (TG/DTG), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Karl Fischer titration. Additionally, the antibacterial tests were performed by microdilution technique. Thus, it was observed that the PM method showed low complexing capacity, unlike PC and SC in which it was observed the formation of inclusion complexes. In addition, the second stage of the TG/DTG curves showed that SC was the best method inclusion with mass loss of 6.9% over the PC that was 6.0%. The XRD results corroborate with the results above suggesting the formation of new solid phase and the SEM photomicrographs showed the porous surface of the samples PC and SC. The essential oil alone demonstrated an antibacterial and modulatory effect against the S. aureus and the Gram negative strain, respectively. However, the β-CD and the inclusion complex did not demonstrate any biological activity in the performed antibacterial assays. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Pore-level influence of micro-fracture parameters on visco-capillary behavior of two-phase displacements in porous media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rokhforouz, M. R.; Akhlaghi Amiri, H. A.

2018-03-01

In this work, coupled Cahn-Hilliard phase field and Navier-Stokes equations were solved using finite element method to address the effects of micro-fracture and its characterizations on water-oil displacements in a heterogeneous porous medium. Sensitivity studies at a wide range of viscosity ratios (M) and capillary numbers (Ca), and the resultant log Ca-log M stability phase diagram, revealed that in both media, with/without fracture, the three regimes of viscous fingering, capillary fingering and stable displacement similarly occur. However, presence of the fracture caused water channeling phenomenon which resulted in reduction of the number of active fingers and hence the final oil recovery factor. At high Ca (especially in the stable regime, with log Ca ≥ -2.5 and log M ≥ 0), recovery factor for the fractured medium was relatively identical with the non-fractured one. At log M ≥ 0, the fracture was fully swept, but flow instabilities were observed inside the fracture at lower M values, especially for log Ca > -4.6. In the case of the fractured medium at log Ca = -4.6 and log M = 0 (capillary dominant flow), it is observed that the primary breakthrough took place by a finger progressed through the matrix, not those channeled through the fracture. Geometrical properties of the fracture, including length, aperture and orientation, highly affected both displacement profile and efficiency. The fracture length inversely influenced the oil recovery factor. It was observed that there is a critical fracture width (almost half of the medium average pore diameter) at which the recovery factor of the medium during displacement is minimum, compared to the media having thinner and thicker fractures. Minor channeling effect in the media with thinner fracture and larger fracture swept volume as well as high fracture/matrix cross flow in the media with thicker fracture were detected as the main cause of this non-monotonic behavior. In the models with thick fractures (with the thickness higher than the average pore diameter), considerable trapped oil volumes were observed inside the fracture at low M values. The fracture orientation had the most impressive effect on oil recovery compared to the other studied parameters; where the oil recovery factor incremented more than 20% as the fracture rotated 90° from flow direction. Due to the dominant effect of the channeling phenomenon, the change in the medium wettability from slightly oil-wet to slightly water-wet, did not considerably affect the displacement profile in the fractured medium. However, oil recovery factor increased as the medium became more water-wet. The fracture area was fully swept by the injected water in the oil-wet and neutral-wet media. However, flow instabilities were observed inside the fracture of the water-wet medium due to counter-current imbibition between fracture/matrix. Micro-scale mechanisms of pore doublet effect, interface coalesce, snap-off and reverse movements were captured during the studied unstable displacements.

Dispersion analysis of leaky guided waves in fluid-loaded waveguides of generic shape.

PubMed

Mazzotti, M; Marzani, A; Bartoli, I

2014-01-01

A fully coupled 2.5D formulation is proposed to compute the dispersive parameters of waveguides with arbitrary cross-section immersed in infinite inviscid fluids. The discretization of the waveguide is performed by means of a Semi-Analytical Finite Element (SAFE) approach, whereas a 2.5D BEM formulation is used to model the impedance of the surrounding infinite fluid. The kernels of the boundary integrals contain the fundamental solutions of the space Fourier-transformed Helmholtz equation, which governs the wave propagation process in the fluid domain. Numerical difficulties related to the evaluation of singular integrals are avoided by using a regularization procedure. To improve the numerical stability of the discretized boundary integral equations for the external Helmholtz problem, the so called CHIEF method is used. The discrete wave equation results in a nonlinear eigenvalue problem in the complex axial wavenumbers that is solved at the frequencies of interest by means of a contour integral algorithm. In order to separate physical from non-physical solutions and to fulfill the requirement of holomorphicity of the dynamic stiffness matrix inside the complex wavenumber contour, the phase of the radial bulk wavenumber is uniquely defined by enforcing the Snell-Descartes law at the fluid-waveguide interface. Three numerical applications are presented. The computed dispersion curves for a circular bar immersed in oil are in agreement with those extracted using the Global Matrix Method. Novel results are presented for viscoelastic steel bars of square and L-shaped cross-section immersed in water. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A review of the preparation and application of flavour and essential oils microcapsules based on complex coacervation technology.

PubMed

Xiao, Zuobing; Liu, Wanlong; Zhu, Guangyong; Zhou, Rujun; Niu, Yunwei

2014-06-01

This paper briefly introduces the preparation and application of flavour and essential oils microcapsules based on complex coacervation technology. The conventional encapsulating agents of oppositely charged proteins and polysaccharides that are used for microencapsulation of flavours and essential oils are reviewed along with the recent advances in complex coacervation methods. Proteins extracted from animal-derived products (gelatin, whey proteins, silk fibroin) and from vegetables (soy proteins, pea proteins), and polysaccharides such as gum Arabic, pectin, chitosan, agar, alginate, carrageenan and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose are described in depth. In recent decades, flavour and essential oils microcapsules have found numerous potential practical applications in food, textiles, agriculturals and pharmaceuticals. In this paper, the different coating materials and their application are discussed in detail. Consequently, the information obtained allows criteria to be established for selecting a method for the preparation of microcapsules according to their advantages, limitations and behaviours as carriers of flavours and essential oils. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry.

Stabilization of model beverage cloud emulsions using protein-polysaccharide electrostatic complexes formed at the oil-water interface.

PubMed

Harnsilawat, Thepkunya; Pongsawatmanit, Rungnaphar; McClements, David J

2006-07-26

The potential of utilizing interfacial complexes, formed through the electrostatic interactions of proteins and polysaccharides at oil-water interfaces, to stabilize model beverage cloud emulsions has been examined. These interfacial complexes were formed by mixing charged polysaccharides with oil-in-water emulsions containing oppositely charged protein-coated oil droplets. Model beverage emulsions were prepared that consisted of 0.1 wt % corn oil droplets coated by beta-lactoglobulin (beta-Lg), beta-Lg/alginate, beta-Lg/iota-carrageenan, or beta-Lg/gum arabic interfacial layers (pH 3 or 4). Stable emulsions were formed when the polysaccharide concentration was sufficient to saturate the protein-coated droplets. The emulsions were subjected to variations in pH (from 3 to 7), ionic strength (from 0 to 250 mM NaCl), and thermal processing (from 30 or 90 degrees C), and the influence on their stability was determined. The emulsions containing alginate and carrageenan had the best stability to ionic strength and thermal processing. This study shows that the controlled formation of protein-polysaccharide complexes at droplet surfaces may be used to produce stable beverage emulsions, which may have important implications for industrial applications.

Laboratory simulation studies of steady-state and potential catalytic effects in the ROPE{trademark} process

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Guffey, F.D.; Holper, P.A.

The Western Research Institute is currently developing a process for the recovery of distillable liquid products from alternate fossil fuel sources such as tar sand and oil shale. The processing concept is based on recycling a fraction of the produced oil back into the reactor with the raw resource. This concept is termed the recycle oil pyrolysis and extraction (ROPE{sup TM}) process. The conversion of the alternate resource to a liquid fuel is performed in two stages. The first recovery stage is performed at moderate temperatures (325--420{degrees}C [617--788{degrees}F]) in the presence of product oil recycle. The second stage is performedmore » at higher temperatures (450--540{degrees}C [842--1004{degrees}F]) in the absence of product oil. The experiments reported here were performed Asphalt Ridge tar sand in the all-glass laboratory simulation reactor to simulate (1) the recycling of SAE 50 weight oil in the recycle oil pyrolysis zone and (2) to evaluate the potential catalytic effects of the sand matrix.« less

Laboratory simulation studies of steady-state and potential catalytic effects in the ROPE trademark process

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Guffey, F.D.; Holper, P.A.

The Western Research Institute is currently developing a process for the recovery of distillable liquid products from alternate fossil fuel sources such as tar sand and oil shale. The processing concept is based on recycling a fraction of the produced oil back into the reactor with the raw resource. This concept is termed the recycle oil pyrolysis and extraction (ROPE{sup TM}) process. The conversion of the alternate resource to a liquid fuel is performed in two stages. The first recovery stage is performed at moderate temperatures (325--420{degrees}C (617--788{degrees}F)) in the presence of product oil recycle. The second stage is performedmore » at higher temperatures (450--540{degrees}C (842--1004{degrees}F)) in the absence of product oil. The experiments reported here were performed Asphalt Ridge tar sand in the all-glass laboratory simulation reactor to simulate (1) the recycling of SAE 50 weight oil in the recycle oil pyrolysis zone and (2) to evaluate the potential catalytic effects of the sand matrix.« less

A Simple and Effective Mass Spectrometric Approach to Identify the Adulteration of the Mediterranean Diet Component Extra-Virgin Olive Oil with Corn Oil.

PubMed

Di Girolamo, Francesco; Masotti, Andrea; Lante, Isabella; Scapaticci, Margherita; Calvano, Cosima Damiana; Zambonin, Carlo; Muraca, Maurizio; Putignani, Lorenza

2015-09-01

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) with its nutraceutical characteristics substantially contributes as a major nutrient to the health benefit of the Mediterranean diet. Unfortunately, the adulteration of EVOO with less expensive oils (e.g., peanut and corn oils), has become one of the biggest source of agricultural fraud in the European Union, with important health implications for consumers, mainly due to the introduction of seed oil-derived allergens causing, especially in children, severe food allergy phenomena. In this regard, revealing adulterations of EVOO is of fundamental importance for health care and prevention reasons, especially in children. To this aim, effective analytical methods to assess EVOO purity are necessary. Here, we propose a simple, rapid, robust and very sensitive method for non-specialized mass spectrometric laboratory, based on the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) coupled to unsupervised hierarchical clustering (UHC), principal component (PCA) and Pearson's correlation analyses, to reveal corn oil (CO) adulterations in EVOO at very low levels (down to 0.5%).

A Simple and Effective Mass Spectrometric Approach to Identify the Adulteration of the Mediterranean Diet Component Extra-Virgin Olive Oil with Corn Oil

PubMed Central

Di Girolamo, Francesco; Masotti, Andrea; Lante, Isabella; Scapaticci, Margherita; Calvano, Cosima Damiana; Zambonin, Carlo; Muraca, Maurizio; Putignani, Lorenza

2015-01-01

Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) with its nutraceutical characteristics substantially contributes as a major nutrient to the health benefit of the Mediterranean diet. Unfortunately, the adulteration of EVOO with less expensive oils (e.g., peanut and corn oils), has become one of the biggest source of agricultural fraud in the European Union, with important health implications for consumers, mainly due to the introduction of seed oil-derived allergens causing, especially in children, severe food allergy phenomena. In this regard, revealing adulterations of EVOO is of fundamental importance for health care and prevention reasons, especially in children. To this aim, effective analytical methods to assess EVOO purity are necessary. Here, we propose a simple, rapid, robust and very sensitive method for non-specialized mass spectrometric laboratory, based on the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) coupled to unsupervised hierarchical clustering (UHC), principal component (PCA) and Pearson’s correlation analyses, to reveal corn oil (CO) adulterations in EVOO at very low levels (down to 0.5%). PMID:26340625

Fat reduction in comminuted meat products-effects of beef fat, regular and pre-emulsified canola oil.

PubMed

Youssef, M K; Barbut, S

2011-04-01

The effects of fat reduction (25.0%, 17.5%, and 10.0%) and substituting beef fat with canola oil or pre-emulsified canola oil (using soy protein isolate, sodium caseinate or whey protein isolate) on cooking loss, texture and color of comminuted meat products were investigated. Reducing fat from 25 to 10% increased cooking loss and decreased hardness. Canola oil or pre-emulsified treatments showed a positive effect on improving yield and restoring textural parameters. Using sodium caseinate to pre-emulsify the oil resulted in the highest hardness value. Cohesiveness was affected by fat type and level. The color of reduced fat meat batters was darker for all, except the beef fat treatments. Using canola oil or pre-emulsified oil resulted in a significant reduction in redness. The results show that pre-emulsification can offset some of the changes in reduced fat meat products when more water is used to substitute for the fat and that pre-emulsification can also help to produce a more stable meat matrix. © 2010 The American Meat Science Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Preparation of soybean oil-based greases: effect of composition and structure on physical properties.

PubMed

Adhvaryu, Atanu; Erhan, Sevim Z; Perez, Joseph M

2004-10-20

Vegetable oils have significant potential as a base fluid and a substitute for mineral oil in grease formulation. Preparation of soybean oil-based lithium greases using a variety of fatty acids in the soap structure is discussed in this paper. Soy greases with lithium-fatty acid soap having C12-C18 chain lengths and different metal to fatty acid ratios were synthesized. Grease hardness was determined using a standard test method, and their oxidative stabilities were measured using pressurized differential scanning calorimetry. Results indicate that lithium soap composition, fatty acid types, and base oil content significantly affect grease hardness and oxidative stability. Lithium soaps prepared with short-chain fatty acids resulted in softer grease. Oxidative stability and other performance properties will deteriorate if oil is released from the grease matrix due to overloading of soap with base oil. Performance characteristics are largely dependent on the hardness and oxidative stability of grease used as industrial and automotive lubricant. Therefore, this paper discusses the preparation methods, optimization of soap components, and antioxidant additive for making soy-based grease. Copyright 2004 American Chemical Society

Identification of fluids and an interface between fluids

DOEpatents

Lee, D.O.; Wayland, J.R. Jr.

1988-03-10

Complex impedance measured over a predefined frequency range is used to determine the identity of different oils in a column. The location of an interface between the oils is determined from the percent frequency effects of the complex impedance measured across the interface. 4 figs.

Metal-Matrix Composite Parts With Metal Inserts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Majkowski, T.; Kashalikar, U.

1995-01-01

Developmental fabrication process produces metal-matrix composite (MMC) parts with integral metal inserts. With inserts, MMC parts readily joined to similar parts by use of brazing, welding, or mechanical fasteners. Process conceived to make strong, lightweight components of structures erected in outer space. Also useful on Earth, in such automotive parts as rocker arms, cylinder liners, and pistons. Potential industrial applications include parts subjected to high stresses at high temperatures, as in power-generation, mining, and oil-drilling equipment.

Image processing analysis of geospatial uav orthophotos for palm oil plantation monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fahmi, F.; Trianda, D.; Andayani, U.; Siregar, B.

2018-03-01

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is one of the tools that can be used to monitor palm oil plantation remotely. With the geospatial orthophotos, it is possible to identify which part of the plantation land is fertile for planted crops, means to grow perfectly. It is also possible furthermore to identify less fertile in terms of growth but not perfect, and also part of plantation field that is not growing at all. This information can be easily known quickly with the use of UAV photos. In this study, we utilized image processing algorithm to process the orthophotos for more accurate and faster analysis. The resulting orthophotos image were processed using Matlab including classification of fertile, infertile, and dead palm oil plants by using Gray Level Co-Occurrence Matrix (GLCM) method. The GLCM method was developed based on four direction parameters with specific degrees 0°, 45°, 90°, and 135°. From the results of research conducted with 30 image samples, it was found that the accuracy of the system can be reached by using the features extracted from the matrix as parameters Contras, Correlation, Energy, and Homogeneity.

Modeling Permeability Alteration in Diatomite Reservoirs During Steam Drive, SUPRI TR-113

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bhat, Suniti Kumar; Kovscek, Anthony R.

1999-08-09

There is an estimated 10 billion barrels of original oil in place (OOIP) in diatomaceous reservoirs in Kern County, California. These reservoirs have low permeability ranging from 0.1 to 10 mD. Injection pressure controlled steam drive has been found to be an effective way to recover oil from these reservoir. However, steam drive in these reservoirs has its own complications. The rock matrix is primarily silica (SiO2). It is a known fact that silica is soluble in hot water and its solubility varies with temperature and pH. Due to this fact, the rock matrix in diatomite may dissolve into themore » aqueous phase as the temperature at a location increases or it may precipitate from the aqueous phase onto the rock grains as the temperature decreases. Thus, during steam drive silica redistribution will occur in the reservoir along with oil recovery. This silica redistribution causes the permeability and porosity of the reservoir to change. Understanding and quantifying these silica redistribution effects on the reservoir permeability might prove to be a key aspect of designing a steam drive project in these formations.« less

Calibration-independent measurement of complex permittivity of liquids using a coaxial transmission line

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guoxin, Cheng

2015-01-01

In recent years, several calibration-independent transmission/reflection methods have been developed to determine the complex permittivity of liquid materials. However, these methods experience their own respective defects, such as the requirement of multi measurement cells, or the presence of air gap effect. To eliminate these drawbacks, a fast calibration-independent method is proposed in this paper. There are two main advantages of the present method over those in the literature. First, only one measurement cell is required. The cell is measured when it is empty and when it is filled with liquid. This avoids the air gap effect in the approach, in which the structure with two reference ports connected with each other is needed to be measured. Second, it eliminates the effects of uncalibrated coaxial cables, adaptors, and plug sections; systematic errors caused by the experimental setup are avoided by the wave cascading matrix manipulations. Using this method, three dielectric reference liquids, i.e., ethanol, ethanediol, and pure water, and low-loss transformer oil are measured over a wide frequency range to validate the proposed method. Their accuracy is assessed by comparing the results with those obtained from the other well known techniques. It is demonstrated that this proposed method can be used as a robust approach for fast complex permittivity determination of liquid materials.

Sequencing of Dust Filter Production Process Using Design Structure Matrix (DSM)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sari, R. M.; Matondang, A. R.; Syahputri, K.; Anizar; Siregar, I.; Rizkya, I.; Ursula, C.

2018-01-01

Metal casting company produces machinery spare part for manufactures. One of the product produced is dust filter. Most of palm oil mill used this product. Since it is used in most of palm oil mill, company often have problems to address this product. One of problem is the disordered of production process. It carried out by the job sequencing. The important job that should be solved first, least implement, while less important job and could be completed later, implemented first. Design Structure Matrix (DSM) used to analyse and determine priorities in the production process. DSM analysis is sort of production process through dependency sequencing. The result of dependency sequences shows the sequence process according to the inter-process linkage considering before and after activities. Finally, it demonstrates their activities to the coupled activities for metal smelting, refining, grinding, cutting container castings, metal expenditure of molds, metal casting, coating processes, and manufacture of molds of sand.

Graphite coated PVA fibers as the reinforcement for cementitious composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yunhua; Zhang, Zhipeng; Liu, Zhichao

2018-02-01

A new preconditioning method was developed to PVA fibers as the reinforcement in cement-based materials. Virgin PVA fibers exhibits limited adhesion to graphite powders due to the presence of oil spots on the surface. Mixing PVA fibers with a moderately concentrated KMnO4-H2SO4 solution can efficiently remove the oil spots by oxidation without creating extra precipitate (MnO2) associated with the reduction reaction. This enhances the coating of graphite powders onto fiber surface and improves the mechanical properties of PVA fiber reinforced concrete (PVA-FRC). Graphite powders yields better fiber distribution in the matrix and reduces the fiber-matrix bonding, which is beneficial in uniformly distributing the stress among embedded fibers and creating steady generation and propagation of tight microcracks. This is evidenced by the significantly enhanced strain hardening behavior and improved flexural strength and toughness.

Nonlinear Dynamic Characteristics of Oil-in-Water Emulsions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Zhaoqi; Han, Yunfeng; Ren, Yingyu; Yang, Qiuyi; Jin, Ningde

2016-08-01

In this article, the nonlinear dynamic characteristics of oil-in-water emulsions under the addition of surfactant were experimentally investigated. Firstly, based on the vertical upward oil-water two-phase flow experiment in 20 mm inner diameter (ID) testing pipe, dynamic response signals of oil-in-water emulsions were recorded using vertical multiple electrode array (VMEA) sensor. Afterwards, the recurrence plot (RP) algorithm and multi-scale weighted complexity entropy causality plane (MS-WCECP) were employed to analyse the nonlinear characteristics of the signals. The results show that the certainty is decreasing and the randomness is increasing with the increment of surfactant concentration. This article provides a novel method for revealing the nonlinear dynamic characteristics, complexity, and randomness of oil-in-water emulsions with experimental measurement signals.

FPGA-based coprocessor for matrix algorithms implementation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amira, Abbes; Bensaali, Faycal

2003-03-01

Matrix algorithms are important in many types of applications including image and signal processing. These areas require enormous computing power. A close examination of the algorithms used in these, and related, applications reveals that many of the fundamental actions involve matrix operations such as matrix multiplication which is of O (N3) on a sequential computer and O (N3/p) on a parallel system with p processors complexity. This paper presents an investigation into the design and implementation of different matrix algorithms such as matrix operations, matrix transforms and matrix decompositions using an FPGA based environment. Solutions for the problem of processing large matrices have been proposed. The proposed system architectures are scalable, modular and require less area and time complexity with reduced latency when compared with existing structures.

Algorithms for computing solvents of unilateral second-order matrix polynomials over prime finite fields using lambda-matrices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burtyka, Filipp

2018-01-01

The paper considers algorithms for finding diagonalizable and non-diagonalizable roots (so called solvents) of monic arbitrary unilateral second-order matrix polynomial over prime finite field. These algorithms are based on polynomial matrices (lambda-matrices). This is an extension of existing general methods for computing solvents of matrix polynomials over field of complex numbers. We analyze how techniques for complex numbers can be adapted for finite field and estimate asymptotic complexity of the obtained algorithms.

Multiple pickering emulsions stabilized by microbowls.

PubMed

Nonomura, Yoshimune; Kobayashi, Naoto; Nakagawa, Naoki

2011-04-19

Some researchers have focused on the adsorption of solid particles at fluid-fluid interfaces and prepared emulsions and foams called "Pickering emulsions/foams". However, while several reports exist on simple spherical emulsions, few reports are available on the formation of more complex structures. Here, we show that holes on particle surfaces are a key factor in establishing the variety and complexity of mesoscale structures. Microbowls, which are hollow particles with holes on their surfaces, form multiple emulsions (water-in-oil-in-water and oil-in-water-in-oil emulsions) by simply mixing them with water and oil. Furthermore, stable potato-like or coffee-bean-like emulsions are also obtained, although nonspherical emulsions are usually unstable because of their larger interfacial energies. These findings are useful in designing the building blocks of complex supracolloidal systems for pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic products. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Correction of Mitochondrial Enzyme Activities in the Skeletal Muscles of Old Rats in Response to Addition of Olive Oil to the Ration.

PubMed

Bronnikov, G E; Kulagina, T P; Aripovskii, A V; Kramarova, L I

2015-06-01

Activities of mitochondrial electron transport chain enzymes NADH-CoQ oxidoreductase (complex I), cytochrome C-oxidase (complex IV), and citrate synthase were measured by spectrophotometry in m. quadriceps femoris homogenate from old rats receiving olive oil with the ration. Reduced activities of complexes I and IV in old animals were restored to the level of young animals after 6-week consumption of olive oil. Activity of citrate synthase did not change with age. Positive effect of olive oil on fatty-acid composition of the muscle tissue in old animals was demonstrated. The content of summary monounsaturated fatty acids, reduced with aging, and of summary polyunsaturated ones, increasing with age, were restored in old rats to the levels virtually not differing from the levels of young animals.

Simulating Surface Oil Transport During the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill: Experiments with the BioCast System

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-01-25

Virtual Special Issue Gulf of Mexico Modelling – Lessons from the spill Simulating surface oil transport during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill ...ocean surface materials. The Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico provided a test case for the Bio-Optical Forecasting (BioCast) system...addition of explicit sources and sinks of surface oil concentrations provides a framework for increasingly complex oil spill modeling efforts that extend

Visualizing Oil Process Dynamics in Porous Media with Micromodels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biswal, S. L.

2016-12-01

The use of foam in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) applications is being considered for gas mobility control to ensure pore-trapped oil can be effectively displaced. In fractured reservoirs, gas tends to channel only through the highly permeability regions, bypassing the less permeable porous matrix, where most of the residual oil remains. Because of the unique transport problems presented by the large permeability contrast between fractures and adjacent porous media, we aim to understand the mechanism by which foam transitions from the fracture to the matrix and how initially trapped oil can be displaced and ultimately recovered. My lab has generated micromodels, which are combined with high-speed imaging to visualize foam transport in models with permeability contrasts, fractures, and multiple phases. The wettability of these surfaces can be altered to mimic the heterogeneous wettability found in reservoir systems. We have shown how foam quality can be modulated by adjusting the ratio of gas flow ratio to aqueous flow rate in a flow focusing system and this foam quality influences sweep efficiency in heterogeneous porous media systems. I will discuss how this understanding has allowed us to design better foam EOR processes. I will also highlight our recent efforts in ashaltene deposition. Asphaltene deposition is a common cause of significant flow assurance problems in wellbores and production equipment as well as near-wellbore regions in oil reservoirs. I will present our results for visualizing real time asphaltene deposition from model and crude oils using microfluidic devices. In particular, we consider porous-media micromodel designs to represent various flow conditions typical of that found in oil flow processes. Also, four stages of deposition have been found and investigated in the pore scale and with qualitatively macroscopic total collector efficiency as well as Hamaker expressions for interacting asphaltenes with surfaces. By understanding the nature and the mechanisms of asphaltene deposits, we increase our ability to design cost effective mitigation strategies that includes the development of a new generation of asphaltene deposition inhibitors and improved methods for prevention and treatment of this problem.

[Rapid determination of 40 pesticide residues in fruits using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry coupled with analyte protectants to compensate for matrix effects].

PubMed

Xu, Xiuli; Zhao, Haixiang; Li, Li; Liu, Hanxia; Ren, Heling; Zhong, Weike

2012-03-01

A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method was developed for the determination of 40 pesticides in fruits. The effects of adding analyte protectants were evaluated for compensating matrix effects and the impacts on the quantitative results. A new combination of analyte protectants - Polyethylene Glycol 400 (PEG 400) and olive oil combination, which can be dissolved in acetone, was used for the quantitative analysis. The pesticides were extracted from fruit samples with acetonitrile and the extracts were cleaned up using micro-solid phase extraction. A GC-MS method in selective ion monitoring (SIM) mode coupled with large volume injection was finally developed. Using the newly developed analyte protectant combination of PEG 400 and olive oil, a good linearity was obtained in the range of 1 - 200 microg/L with coefficients better than 0.99, and the detection limits were between 0.1 - 3.0 microg/L. The mean recoveries of the pesticides were 75% - 119% with the relative standard deviation values less than 16.6% except for dimethoate. The performance of the analyte protectants was compared with matrix-matched standards calibration curves in terms of quantitative accuracy. The results showed that the method of adding analyte protectants can replace the matrix-matched standard calibration, and can also reduce the sample pretreatment. When the devel- oped method was used for the analysis of apple, peache, orange, banana, grape and other fruit samples, a good matrix compensation effect was achieved, and thus effectively reduced the bad effects of the water-soluble agents to the gas chromatographic column.

Positioning matrix of economic efficiency and complexity: a case study in a university hospital.

PubMed

Ippolito, Adelaide; Viggiani, Vincenzo

2014-01-01

At the end of 2010, the Federico II University Hospital in Naples, Italy, initiated a series of discussions aimed at designing and applying a positioning matrix to its departments. This analysis was developed to create a tool able to extract meaningful information both to increase knowledge about individual departments and to inform the choices of general management during strategic planning. The name given to this tool was the positioning matrix of economic efficiency and complexity. In the matrix, the x-axis measures the ratio between revenues and costs, whereas the y-axis measures the index of complexity, thus showing "profitability" while bearing in mind the complexity of activities. By using the positioning matrix, it was possible to conduct a critical analysis of the characteristics of the Federico II University Hospital and to extract useful information for general management to use during strategic planning at the end of 2010 when defining medium-term objectives. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Quantitative analysis of phylloquinone (vitamin K1) in soy bean oils by high-performance liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Zonta, F; Stancher, B

1985-07-19

A high-performance liquid chromatographic method for determining phylloquinone (vitamin K1) in soy bean oils is described. Resolution of vitamin K1 from interfering peaks of the matrix was obtained after enzymatic digestion, extraction and liquid-solid chromatography on alumina. An isocratic reversed-phase chromatography with UV detection was used in the final stage. The quantitation was carried out by the standard addition method, and the recovery of the whole procedure was 88.2%.

Physical properties and stability evaluation of fish oil-in-water emulsions stabilized using thiol-modified β-lactoglobulin fibrils-chitosan complex.

PubMed

Chang, Hon Weng; Tan, Tai Boon; Tan, Phui Yee; Abas, Faridah; Lai, Oi Ming; Wang, Yong; Wang, Yonghua; Nehdi, Imededdine Arbi; Tan, Chin Ping

2018-03-01

Fish oil-in-water emulsions containing fish oil, thiol-modified β-lactoglobulin (β-LG) fibrils, chitosan and maltodextrin were fabricated using a high-energy method. The results showed that chitosan coating induced charge reversal; denoting successful biopolymers complexation. A significantly (p<0.05) larger droplet size and lower polydispersity index value, attributed to the thicker chitosan coating at the oil-water interface, were observed. At high chitosan concentrations, the cationic nature of chitosan strengthened the electrostatic repulsion between the droplets, thus conferring high oxidative stability and low turbidity loss rate to the emulsions. The apparent viscosity of emulsions stabilized using thiol-modified β-LG fibrils-chitosan complex was higher than those stabilized using β-LG fibrils alone, resulting in the former's higher creaming stability. Under thermal treatments (63°C and 100°C), emulsions stabilized using thiol-modified β-LG fibrils-chitosan complex possessed higher heat stability as indicated by the consistent droplet sizes observed. Chitosan provided a thicker protective layer that protected the oil droplets against high temperature. Bridging flocculation occurred at low chitosan concentration (0.1%, w/w), as revealed through microscopic observations which indicated the presence of large flocs. All in all, this work provided us with a better understanding of the application of protein fibrils-polysaccharide complex to produce stable emulsion. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Identification of unresolved complex mixtures (UCMs) of hydrocarbons in commercial fish oil supplements.

PubMed

Reid, Anna-Jean M; Budge, Suzanne M

2015-01-01

Heightened awareness of the health benefits of fish oil consumption has led to a great increase in the number of fish oil supplements available to the consumer. Therefore manufacturers are continually looking for ways to distinguish their products from those of competitors. Minimally refined or virgin fish oils provide a unique feature; however, petroleum hydrocarbon contamination from oil spills is a reality in the world's oceans. The question arises whether oil produced from fish species caught in these polluted areas is free of petroleum hydrocarbons, with particular interest in unresolved complex mixtures (UCMs). This study investigates the presence of UCMs in commercially available fish oil supplements advertised as being virgin, as well as refined. Weathered petroleum hydrocarbons in the form of a UCM were found at 523 µg g(-1) in a virgin Alaskan salmon oil supplement. Supplements that were refined were free of this contamination. Fish used in the production of fish oil supplements appear to have accumulated petrogenic hydrocarbons in their tissues which were not removed by minimal oil refining. Further study is required to determine if there are any health implications associated with long-term consumption of these contaminated supplements. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.

Combined Raman spectroscopy and first-principles calculation for essential oil of Lemongrass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faria, Rozilaine A. P. G.; Picanço, Nágela F. M.; Campo, Gladís S. D. L.; Faria, Jorge L. B.; Instituto de Física/UFMT Collaboration; Instituto Federal de Mato Grosso/IFMT Team

2014-03-01

The essential oils have increased food's industry interest by the presence of antioxidant and antimicrobial. Many of them have antimicrobial and antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal activities. But, due to the concentrations required to be added in the food matrix, the sensory quality of the food is changed. The production and composition of essential oil extracted from plants depend on the plant-environment interactions, the harvest season, phenophase and physiological state of the vegetal. Cymbopogom citratus (Lemongrass) has a good yield in essential oil with neral (citral A), geranial (citral B) and myrcene, reaching 90% of the oil composition. In our experimental work, the essential oil of lemongrass was obtained by hydrodistillation in Clevenger apparatus for 4 hours. The compound was further analyzed by Raman scattering in a spectrometer HR 800, with excitation at 633nm, in the range 80-3400 cm-1. The spectrum obtained was compared with DFT calculations of molecules of the oil components. Our results show the vibrational signatures of the main functional groups and suggest a simple, but very useful, methodology to quantify the proportions of these components in the oil composition, showing good agreement with Raman data. CNPq/Capes/Fapemat.

Identification of the Relationship between Oil Body Morphology and Oil Content by Microstructure Comparison Combining with QTL Analysis in Brassica napus

PubMed Central

Gu, Jianwei; Chao, Hongbo; Wang, Hao; Li, Yonghong; Li, Dianrong; Xiang, Jun; Gan, Jianping; Lu, Guangyuan; Zhang, Xuekun; Long, Yan; Li, Maoteng

2017-01-01

Oil bodies (OBs) are relatively simple but very important organelles comprising a matrix of triacylglycerol (TAG) surrounded by a phospholipid monolayer embedded and covered with unique proteins. The OB structure in Brassica napus with different oil content and the relationship between the oil content and the OB structure needs to be better understood. In this paper, the characteristics of OBs in the embryo of a series of B. napus materials with different oil content ranging from 34% to over 60% were studied. The results indicated that the OB size was significantly positively correlated with the oil content but was significantly negatively correlated with the glucosinolates and the protein content. Many genes associated with TAG synthesis, OB-membrane proteins, and the cell progress regulatory pathway were identified in the confidence interval of co-located QTLs for oil content, fatty acid (FA) compositions, and protein content. Our results suggested that the morphology of OBs might be directly controlled by the genes associated with OB-membrane proteins and indirectly controlled by the genes associated with TAG synthesis and cell progress regulatory pathway. PMID:28111582

Identification of the Relationship between Oil Body Morphology and Oil Content by Microstructure Comparison Combining with QTL Analysis in Brassica napus.

PubMed

Gu, Jianwei; Chao, Hongbo; Wang, Hao; Li, Yonghong; Li, Dianrong; Xiang, Jun; Gan, Jianping; Lu, Guangyuan; Zhang, Xuekun; Long, Yan; Li, Maoteng

2016-01-01

Oil bodies (OBs) are relatively simple but very important organelles comprising a matrix of triacylglycerol (TAG) surrounded by a phospholipid monolayer embedded and covered with unique proteins. The OB structure in Brassica napus with different oil content and the relationship between the oil content and the OB structure needs to be better understood. In this paper, the characteristics of OBs in the embryo of a series of B. napus materials with different oil content ranging from 34% to over 60% were studied. The results indicated that the OB size was significantly positively correlated with the oil content but was significantly negatively correlated with the glucosinolates and the protein content. Many genes associated with TAG synthesis, OB-membrane proteins, and the cell progress regulatory pathway were identified in the confidence interval of co-located QTLs for oil content, fatty acid (FA) compositions, and protein content. Our results suggested that the morphology of OBs might be directly controlled by the genes associated with OB-membrane proteins and indirectly controlled by the genes associated with TAG synthesis and cell progress regulatory pathway.

Determination of osmium concentrations and (187)Os/(188)Os of crude oils and source rocks by coupling high-pressure, high-temperature digestion with sparging OsO(4) into a multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer.

PubMed

Sen, Indra S; Peucker-Ehrenbrink, Bernhard

2014-03-18

The (187)Os/(188)Os ratio that is based on the β(-)-decay of (187)Re to (187)Os (t1/2 = 41.6 billion years) is widely used to investigate petroleum system processes. Despite its broad applicability to studies of hydrocarbon deposits worldwide, a suitable matrix-matched reference material for Os analysis does not exist. In this study, a method that enables Os isotope measurement of crude oil with in-line Os separation and purification from the sample matrix is proposed. The method to analyze Os concentration and (187)Os/(187)Os involves sample digestion under high pressure and high temperature using a high pressure asher (HPA-S, Anton Paar), sparging of volatile osmium tetroxide from the sample solution, and measurements using multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC-ICPMS). This methods significantly reduced the total procedural time compared to conventional Carius tube digestion followed by Os separation and purification using solvent extraction, microdistillation and N-TIMS analysis. The method yields Os concentration (28 ± 4 pg g(-1)) and (187)Os/(188)Os (1.62 ± 0.15) of commercially available crude oil reference material NIST 8505 (1 S.D., n = 6). The reference material NIST 8505 is homogeneous with respect to Os concentration at a test portion size of 0.2 g. Therefore, (187)Os/(188)Os composition and Os concentration of NIST 8505 can serve as a matrix-matched reference material for Os analysis. Data quality was assessed by repeated measurements of the USGS shale reference material SCo-1 (sample matrix similar to petroleum source rock) and the widely used Liquid Os Standard solution (LOsSt). The within-laboratory reproducibility of (187)Os/(188)Os for a 5 pg of LOsSt solution, analyzed with this method over a period of 12 months was ∼1.4% (1 S.D., n = 26), respectively.

Fusion of microlitre water-in-oil droplets for simple, fast and green chemical assays.

PubMed

Chiu, S-H; Urban, P L

2015-08-07

A simple format for microscale chemical assays is proposed. It does not require the use of test tubes, microchips or microtiter plates. Microlitre-range (ca. 0.7-5.0 μL) aqueous droplets are generated by a commercial micropipette in a non-polar matrix inside a Petri dish. When two droplets are pipetted nearby, they spontaneously coalesce within seconds, priming a chemical reaction. Detection of the reaction product is accomplished by colorimetry, spectrophotometry, or fluorimetry using simple light-emitting diode (LED) arrays as the sources of monochromatic light, while chemiluminescence detection of the analytes present in single droplets is conducted in the dark. A smartphone camera is used as the detector. The limits of detection obtained for the developed in-droplet assays are estimated to be: 1.4 nmol (potassium permanganate by colorimetry), 1.4 pmol (fluorescein by fluorimetry), and 580 fmol (sodium hypochlorite by chemiluminescence detection). The format has successfully been used to monitor the progress of chemical and biochemical reactions over time with sub-second resolution. A semi-quantitative analysis of ascorbic acid using Tillman's reagent is presented. A few tens of individual droplets can be scanned in parallel. Rapid switching of the LED light sources with different wavelengths enables a spectral analysis of multiple droplets. Very little solid waste is produced. The assay matrix is readily recycled, thus the volume of liquid waste produced each time is also very small (typically, 1-10 μL per analysis). Various water-immiscible translucent liquids can be used as the reaction matrix: including silicone oil, 1-octanol as well as soybean cooking oil.

Micro-matrix solid-phase dispersion coupled with MEEKC for quantitative analysis of lignans in Schisandrae Chinensis Fructus using molecular sieve TS-1 as a sorbent.

PubMed

Chu, Chu; Wei, Mengmeng; Wang, Shan; Zheng, Liqiong; He, Zheng; Cao, Jun; Yan, Jizhong

2017-09-15

A simple and effective method was developed for determining lignans in Schisandrae Chinensis Fructus by using a micro-matrix solid phase dispersion (MSPD) technique coupled with microemulsion electrokinetic chromatography (MEEKC). Molecular sieve, TS-1, was applied as a solid supporting material in micro MSPD extraction for the first time. Parameters that affect extraction efficiency, such as type of dispersant, mass ratio of the sample to the dispersant, grinding time, elution solvent and volume were optimized. The optimal extraction conditions involve dispersing 25mg of powdered Schisandrae samples with 50mg of TS-1 by a mortar and pestle. A grinding time of 150s was adopted. The blend was then transferred to a solid-phase extraction cartridge and the target analytes were eluted with 500μL of methanol. Moreover, several parameters affecting MEEKC separation were studied, including the type of oil, SDS concentration, type and concentration of cosurfactant, and concentration of organic modifier. A satisfactory linearity (R>0.9998) was obtained, and the calculated limits of quantitation were less than 2.77μg/mL. Finally, the micro MSPD-MEEKC method was successfully applied to the analysis of lignans in complex Schisandrae fructus samples. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Detection of Protein Complexes Based on Penalized Matrix Decomposition in a Sparse Protein⁻Protein Interaction Network.

PubMed

Cao, Buwen; Deng, Shuguang; Qin, Hua; Ding, Pingjian; Chen, Shaopeng; Li, Guanghui

2018-06-15

High-throughput technology has generated large-scale protein interaction data, which is crucial in our understanding of biological organisms. Many complex identification algorithms have been developed to determine protein complexes. However, these methods are only suitable for dense protein interaction networks, because their capabilities decrease rapidly when applied to sparse protein⁻protein interaction (PPI) networks. In this study, based on penalized matrix decomposition ( PMD ), a novel method of penalized matrix decomposition for the identification of protein complexes (i.e., PMD pc ) was developed to detect protein complexes in the human protein interaction network. This method mainly consists of three steps. First, the adjacent matrix of the protein interaction network is normalized. Second, the normalized matrix is decomposed into three factor matrices. The PMD pc method can detect protein complexes in sparse PPI networks by imposing appropriate constraints on factor matrices. Finally, the results of our method are compared with those of other methods in human PPI network. Experimental results show that our method can not only outperform classical algorithms, such as CFinder, ClusterONE, RRW, HC-PIN, and PCE-FR, but can also achieve an ideal overall performance in terms of a composite score consisting of F-measure, accuracy (ACC), and the maximum matching ratio (MMR).

Match of Solubility Parameters Between Oil and Surfactants as a Rational Approach for the Formulation of Microemulsion with a High Dispersed Volume of Copaiba Oil and Low Surfactant Content.

PubMed

Xavier-Junior, Francisco Humberto; Huang, Nicolas; Vachon, Jean-Jacques; Rehder, Vera Lucia Garcia; do Egito, Eryvaldo Sócrates Tabosa; Vauthier, Christine

2016-12-01

Aim was to formulate oil-in-water (O/W) microemulsion with a high volume ratio of complex natural oil, i.e. copaiba oil and low surfactant content. The strategy of formulation was based on (i) the selection of surfactants based on predictive calculations of chemical compatibility between their hydrophobic moiety and oil components and (ii) matching the HLB of the surfactants with the required HLB of the oil. Solubility parameters of the hydrophobic moiety of the surfactants and of the main components found in the oil were calculated and compared. In turn, required HLB of oils were calculated. Selection of surfactants was achieved matching their solubility parameters with those of oil components. Blends of surfactants were prepared with HLB matching the required HLB of the oils. Oil:water mixtures (15:85 and 25:75) were the titrated with surfactant blends until a microemulsion was formed. Two surfactant blends were identified from the predictive calculation approach. Microemulsions containing up to 19.6% and 13.7% of selected surfactant blends were obtained. O/W microemulsions with a high volume fraction of complex natural oil and a reasonable surfactant concentration were formulated. These microemulsions can be proposed as delivery systems for the oral administration of poorly soluble drugs.

A scalable parallel black oil simulator on distributed memory parallel computers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Kun; Liu, Hui; Chen, Zhangxin

2015-11-01

This paper presents our work on developing a parallel black oil simulator for distributed memory computers based on our in-house parallel platform. The parallel simulator is designed to overcome the performance issues of common simulators that are implemented for personal computers and workstations. The finite difference method is applied to discretize the black oil model. In addition, some advanced techniques are employed to strengthen the robustness and parallel scalability of the simulator, including an inexact Newton method, matrix decoupling methods, and algebraic multigrid methods. A new multi-stage preconditioner is proposed to accelerate the solution of linear systems from the Newton methods. Numerical experiments show that our simulator is scalable and efficient, and is capable of simulating extremely large-scale black oil problems with tens of millions of grid blocks using thousands of MPI processes on parallel computers.

Preparation and physicochemical of microemulsion based on macadamia nut oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tu, Xinghao; Chen, Hong; Du, Liqing

2018-03-01

The objective of the present work was to study the preparation, optimization and characteristic of nanostructured lipid carriers(NLCs) based on macadamia nut oil. NLC with various macadamia nut oil content were successfully prepared by an optimized microfluidization method using stearic acid as solid lipid and pluronic F68 as surfactant. As a result, NLC with particle size about 286nm were obtained, and the polydispersity index(PI) of all developed NLC were below 0.2 which indicate a narrow size distribution. Furthermore, the encapsulation efficiency and loading capability were investigated as well. Physical stability of NLC demonstrated that particles of system were stable at room temperature and low temperature. Differential scanning calorimetry(DSC) investigation show that the inner structure and recrystallinity of lipid matrix within NLC were greatly influenced by the content of macadamia nut oil.

Dissolved organic matter dynamics in surface waters affected by oil spill pollution: Results from the Serious Game exercise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gonnelli, M.; Galletti, Y.; Marchetti, E.; Mercadante, L.; Retelletti Brogi, S.; Ribotti, A.; Sorgente, R.; Vestri, S.; Santinelli, C.

2016-11-01

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC), chromophoric and fluorescent dissolved organic matter (CDOM and FDOM, respectively) surface distribution was studied during the Serious Game exercise carried out in the Eastern Ligurian Sea, where an oil spill was localized by using satellite images and models. This paper reports the first DOC, CDOM and FDOM data for this area together with an evaluation of fluorescence as a fast and inexpensive tool for early oil spill detection in marine waters. The samples collected in the oil spill showed a fluorescence intensity markedly higher ( 5 fold) than all the other samples. The excitation-emission matrixes, coupled with parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC), allowed for the identification in the FDOM pool of a mixture of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, humic-like and protein-like fluorophores.

Preparation of microcapsules containing double-component lubricant and self-lubricating performance of polymer composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Haiyan; Shi, Nanqi; Ji, Jing; Wang, Huaiyuan

2018-05-01

Double-component microcapsules containing lubricant oil and SiO2 nanoparticles were prepared by solvent evaporation method. The synthesized microcapsules have the regular spherical structure with the mean diameter of 105 μm and wall thickness of 15 μm. The synthesized microcapsules have excellent thermal stability, and the lubricant oil content was 71.4 wt%. Self-lubricating polymer composites were fabricated by incorporating double-component microcapsules into epoxy matrix. When the SiO2 nanoparticles content was 3 wt% relative to the lubricant oil, 10 wt% microcapsules brought 60.8% and 93.3% decrease for epoxy composites in the friction coefficient and specific wear rate, respectively. The synergetic effect between lubricant oil and SiO2 nanoparticles play a positive role in improving the triboligical properties of polymer composites.

Lanthanide complexes as luminogenic probes to measure sulfide levels in industrial samples.

PubMed

Thorson, Megan K; Ung, Phuc; Leaver, Franklin M; Corbin, Teresa S; Tuck, Kellie L; Graham, Bim; Barrios, Amy M

2015-10-08

A series of lanthanide-based, azide-appended complexes were investigated as hydrogen sulfide-sensitive probes. Europium complex 1 and Tb complex 3 both displayed a sulfide-dependent increase in luminescence, while Tb complex 2 displayed a decrease in luminescence upon exposure to NaHS. The utility of the complexes for monitoring sulfide levels in industrial oil and water samples was investigated. Complex 3 provided a sensitive measure of sulfide levels in petrochemical water samples (detection limit ∼ 250 nM), while complex 1 was capable of monitoring μM levels of sulfide in partially refined crude oil. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reaction of Pb(II) and Zn(II) with Ethyl Linoleate To Form Structured Hybrid Inorganic–Organic Complexes: A Model for Degradation in Historic Paint Films

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

MacDonald, Margaret G.; Palmer, Michael R.; Suchomel, Matthew R.

To investigate soap formation in drying oils in historic paints, the reaction between metal acetates (K +, Zn 2+, Pb 2+) and ethyl linoleate (EL) was studied using optical microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and electron microscopy. Pb(II) and Zn(II) react rapidly with EL to form highly structured, spherulitic, luminescent crystallites that aggregate. Evidence from Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray analysis and high-resolution synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction indicates that these are organic-inorganic hybrid complexes or coordination polymers. FTIR absorbance peaks at ca. 1540 cm -1 for Pb(II) and ca. 1580 cm -1 for Zn(II) are consistentmore » with the formation of carboxylate complexes. The complexes formed offer insight into the degradation processes observed in oil paint films, suggesting that soap formation is rapid when metal ions are solubilized and can occur with unsaturated fatty acids that are present in fresh oils. Finally, these complexes may account for the atypical luminescence observed in lead-containing cured oil paint films.« less

Reaction of Pb(II) and Zn(II) with Ethyl Linoleate To Form Structured Hybrid Inorganic–Organic Complexes: A Model for Degradation in Historic Paint Films

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

MacDonald, Margaret G.; Palmer, Michael R.; Suchomel, Matthew R.

To investigate soap formation in drying oils in historic paints, the reaction between metal acetates (K +, Zn 2+, Pb 2+) and ethyl linoleate (EL) was studied using optical microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and electron microscopy. Pb(II) and Zn(II) react rapidly with EL to form highly structured, spherulitic, luminescent crystallites that aggregate. Evidence from Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray analysis and high-resolution synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction indicates that these are organic–inorganic hybrid complexes or coordination polymers. FTIR absorbance peaks at ca. 1540 cm –1 for Pb(II) and ca. 1580 cm –1 for Zn(II) are consistentmore » with the formation of carboxylate complexes. The complexes formed offer insight into the degradation processes observed in oil paint films, suggesting that soap formation is rapid when metal ions are solubilized and can occur with unsaturated fatty acids that are present in fresh oils. These complexes may account for the atypical luminescence observed in lead-containing cured oil paint films.« less

Reaction of Pb(II) and Zn(II) with Ethyl Linoleate To Form Structured Hybrid Inorganic–Organic Complexes: A Model for Degradation in Historic Paint Films

DOE PAGES

MacDonald, Margaret G.; Palmer, Michael R.; Suchomel, Matthew R.; ...

2016-09-07

To investigate soap formation in drying oils in historic paints, the reaction between metal acetates (K +, Zn 2+, Pb 2+) and ethyl linoleate (EL) was studied using optical microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and electron microscopy. Pb(II) and Zn(II) react rapidly with EL to form highly structured, spherulitic, luminescent crystallites that aggregate. Evidence from Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray analysis and high-resolution synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction indicates that these are organic-inorganic hybrid complexes or coordination polymers. FTIR absorbance peaks at ca. 1540 cm -1 for Pb(II) and ca. 1580 cm -1 for Zn(II) are consistentmore » with the formation of carboxylate complexes. The complexes formed offer insight into the degradation processes observed in oil paint films, suggesting that soap formation is rapid when metal ions are solubilized and can occur with unsaturated fatty acids that are present in fresh oils. Finally, these complexes may account for the atypical luminescence observed in lead-containing cured oil paint films.« less

Influence of Volume Deformation Rate on the Intensity of Oil-Bearing Crop Pressing-out in Relation to Rape Extrudate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Slavnov, E. V.; Petrov, I. A.

2015-07-01

The influence of the volume deformation rate on the intensity of piston pressing-out of oil has been investigated. The results of pressing by a piston moving with different speeds are presented. Mathematical simulation is carried out for the stage of pressing-out after the termination of sample loading, when oil release occurs due to the accumulated deformations of the skeleton. It has been assumed that in mechanical pressing there remains the least residual content of oil. A dimensionless complex representing the ratio of the characteristic times of loading to the material response (the process of pressing) has been obtained. The dependence of the rate of oil pressing-out at the stage of pressure relaxation on the dimensionless complex has been determined.

Multi-frequency complex network from time series for uncovering oil-water flow structure.

PubMed

Gao, Zhong-Ke; Yang, Yu-Xuan; Fang, Peng-Cheng; Jin, Ning-De; Xia, Cheng-Yi; Hu, Li-Dan

2015-02-04

Uncovering complex oil-water flow structure represents a challenge in diverse scientific disciplines. This challenge stimulates us to develop a new distributed conductance sensor for measuring local flow signals at different positions and then propose a novel approach based on multi-frequency complex network to uncover the flow structures from experimental multivariate measurements. In particular, based on the Fast Fourier transform, we demonstrate how to derive multi-frequency complex network from multivariate time series. We construct complex networks at different frequencies and then detect community structures. Our results indicate that the community structures faithfully represent the structural features of oil-water flow patterns. Furthermore, we investigate the network statistic at different frequencies for each derived network and find that the frequency clustering coefficient enables to uncover the evolution of flow patterns and yield deep insights into the formation of flow structures. Current results present a first step towards a network visualization of complex flow patterns from a community structure perspective.

Synergistic toxicity of Macondo crude oil and dispersant Corexit 9500A(®) to the Brachionus plicatilis species complex (Rotifera).

PubMed

Rico-Martínez, Roberto; Snell, Terry W; Shearer, Tonya L

2013-02-01

Using the marine rotifer Brachionus plicatilis acute toxicity tests, we estimated the toxicity of Corexit 9500A(®), propylene glycol, and Macondo oil. Ratios of 1:10, 1:50 and 1:130 for Corexit 9500A(®):Macondo oil mixture represent: maximum exposure concentrations, recommended ratios for deploying Corexit (1:10-1:50), 1:130 the actual dispersant:oil ratio used in the Deep Water Horizon spill. Corexit 9500A(®) and oil are similar in their toxicity. However, when Corexit 9500A(®) and oil are mixed, toxicity to B. manjavacas increases up to 52-fold. Extrapolating these results to the oil released by the Macondo well, suggests underestimation of increased toxicity from Corexit application. We found small differences in sensitivity among species of the B. plicatilis species complex, likely reflecting phylogenetic similarity. Just 2.6% of the water-accommodated fraction of oil inhibited rotifer cyst hatching by 50%, an ecologically significant result because rotifer cyst in sediments are critical resources for the recolonization of populations each Spring. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Recovery of Pyruvic Acid using Tri-n-butylamine Dissolved in Non-Toxic Diluent (Rice Bran Oil)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pal, Dharm; Keshav, Amit

2016-04-01

An attempt has been made to investigate the effectiveness of the vegetable oil based biocompatible solvent for the separation of pyruvic acid from fermentation broth, by using rice bran oil as natural, non-toxic diluent. Reactive extraction of pyruvic acid (0.1-0.5 k mol/m3) from aqueous solutions has been studied using tri-n-butylamine (TBA; 10-70 %) as an extractant dissolved in non toxic rice bran oil at T = 30 ± 1 °C. Results were presented in terms of distribution coefficient (Kd), extraction efficiency (E %), loading ratio (Z), and complexation constant (\\varphi_{α β }). Extraction equilibrium was interpreted using mass action modeling approach. Based on the extent of loading (Z < 0.5) only (1:1), pyruvic acid: TBA complex was proposed. Equilibrium complexation constant was evaluated to 1.22 m3/k mol. Results obtained are useful in understanding the extraction mechanism.

Organic matrix in produced water from the Osage-Skiatook Petroleum Environmental Research site, Osage County, Oklahoma

USGS Publications Warehouse

Sirivedhin, Tanita; Dallbauman, Liese

2004-01-01

Produced water (water co-produced with oil and gas) constitutes the single largest waste stream for oil and gas industry. Reclaiming this water for beneficial use is thought to be one of the most practical solutions that can solve both environmental and water shortage problems. The feasibility of this practice depends on the ability to remove its chemical content to the levels that meets the appropriate standards. Organic compounds are probably the most difficult fraction to handle. In this paper, the discrete organic compounds and non-volatile, macromolecular organic compounds (i.e., natural organic matter––NOM) of three produced water samples from the Osage-Skiatook Environmental Research site were characterized. Two of the three produced waters had very little contribution from NOM, while one of the samples had about 23% NOM contribution to its organic matrix pool. Fluorescent spectrophotometric scans provided little differentiation among the organic quality of the produced water, while pyrolysis-GC/MS showed that the NOM characteristics of the three produced waters were distinct. Specifically, the overall halogenated content and aromaticity of the NOM were found to be possible qualifiers that distinguish produced water from the coalbed methane well from produced water from the oil well. And the specific chemical fragments that are linked to polysaccharide sources were found to be potential identifiers that distinguish produced water from the newer oil well from produced water from the older oil well. These identifiers were, however, only suggested for this preliminary study. More samples must be included to build a substantial database on produced water NOM to confirm and identify more markers.

Cu determination in crude oil distillation products by atomic absorption and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry after analyte transfer to aqueous solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kowalewska, Zofia; Ruszczyńska, Anna; Bulska, Ewa

2005-03-01

Cu was determined in a wide range of petroleum products from crude oil distillation using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS), electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Different procedures of sample preparation were evaluated: (i) mineralization with sulfuric acid in an open system, (ii) mineralization in a closed microwave system, (iii) combustion in hydrogen-oxygen flame in the Wickbold's apparatus, (iv) matrix evaporation followed by acid dissolution, and (v) acidic extraction. All the above procedures led to the transfer of the analyte into an aqueous solution for the analytical measurement step. It was found that application of FAAS was limited to the analysis of the heaviest petroleum products of high Cu content. In ICP-MS, the use of internal reference method (with Rh or In as internal reference element) was required to eliminate the matrix effects in the analysis of extracts and the concentrated solutions of mineralized heavy petroleum products. The detection limits (in original samples) were equal to, respectively, 10, 86, 3.3, 0.9 and 0.4 ng g - 1 in procedures i-v with ETAAS detection and 10, 78, 1.1 and 0.5 ng g - 1 in procedures i-iii and v with ICP-MS detection. The procedures recommended here were validated by recovery experiments, certified reference materials analysis and comparison of results, obtained for a given sample, in different ways. The Cu content in the analyzed samples was: 50-110 ng g - 1 in crude oil, < 0.4-6 ng g - 1 in gasoline, < 0.5-2 ng g - 1 in atmospheric oil, < 6-100 ng g - 1 in heavy vacuum oil and 140-300 ng g - 1 in distillation residue.

Semisolid matrix filled capsules: an approach to improve dissolution stability of phenytoin sodium formulation.

PubMed

El Massik, M A; Abdallah, O Y; Galal, S; Daabis, N A

2003-05-01

Seven semisolid fill bases were selected for the formulation of 24 capsule formulations, each containing 100 mg of phenytoin sodium. The fill materials were selected based on the water absorption capacity of their mixtures with phenytoin sodium. The fill matrices included lipophilic bases (castor oil, soya oil, and Gelucire (G) 33/01), amphiphilic bases (G 44/14 and Suppocire BP), and water-soluble bases (PEG 4000 and PEG 6000). The drug:base ratio was 1:2. Excipients such as lecithin, docusate sodium, and poloxamer 188 were added to some formulations. The dissolution rate study indicated that formulations containing lipophilic and amphiphilic bases showed the best release profiles. These are F4 (castor oil-1% docusate sodium); F10 (castor oil-3% poloxamer 188); F14 (G33/01-10% lecithin); F17 (G33/01-1% docusate sodium), and F20 (Suppocire BP). Further, the dissolution stability of the five formulations above was assessed by an accelerated stability study at 30 degrees C and 75% RH using standard Epanutin capsules for comparison. The study included the test and standard capsules either packed in the container of marketed Epanutin capsules (packed) or removed from their outer pack (unpacked). Release data indicated superior release rates of castor oil based formulations (F4 and F10) relative to standard capsules in both the unpacked and packed forms. For instance, the extent of drug release at 30 min after 1 month was 91% for F4 and F10 and 20% for standard capsules. Drug release from packed capsules after 6 months storage was 88% for both formulations F4 and F10 and 35% for standard capsules. In conclusion, the pharmaceutical quality of phenytoin sodium capsules can be improved by using a semisolid lipophilic matrix filled in hard gelatin capsules.

Interaction of formic acid with nitrogen: stabilization of the higher-energy conformer.

PubMed

Marushkevich, Kseniya; Räsänen, Markku; Khriachtchev, Leonid

2010-10-07

Conformational change is an important concept in chemistry and physics. In the present work, we study conformations of formic acid (HCOOH, FA) and report the preparation and identification of the complex of the higher-energy conformer cis-FA with N(2) in an argon matrix. The cis-FA···N(2) complex was synthesized by combining annealing and vibrational excitation of the ground-state trans-FA in a FA/N(2)/Ar matrix. The assignment is based on IR spectroscopic measurements and ab initio calculations. The cis-FA···N(2) complex decay in an argon matrix is much slower compared with the cis-FA monomer. In agreement with the experimental observations, the calculations predict a substantial increase in the stabilization barrier for the cis-FA···N(2) complex compared with the uncomplexed cis-FA monomer. A number of solvation effects in an argon matrix are computationally estimated and discussed. The present results on the cis-FA···N(2) complex show that intermolecular interaction can stabilize intrinsically unstable conformers, as previously found for some other cis-FA complexes.

Rigid polyurethane/oil palm fibre biocomposite foam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alis, Adilah; Majid, Rohah A.; Nasir, Izzah Athirah Ahmad; Mustaffa, Nor Syatika; Hassan, Wan Hasamuddin Wan

2017-07-01

Rigid polyurethane (PU) biocomposite foam had been successfully prepared by reacting palm oil-derived polyol (PO-p) with polymeric 4, 4-diphenylmethane diisocynate (p-MDI). Two types of alkali-treated oil palm fibres namely, empty fruit bunch (EFB) and palm pressed fibre (PPF) were used as fillers to be incorporated into PU foam at 2.5 wt%, 5 wt% and 7.5 wt% fibre loadings. The effects of these fibres on surface morphology, compressive strength and thermal transition behaviours of biocomposite foams were investigated. Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) analysis confirmed the formation of urethane linkages (-NHCOO) in all samples at 1530-1540 cm-1. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis showed the average melting peak temperature (Tm) of biocomposite foams (132°C) were lower Tm than that of pure PU foam (161.67°C) and the increase amount of fibres did not give significant effect on the Tm of both biocomposite systems. Meanwhile, the microscopic images of PU-PPF foams exhibited smaller and uniform cell size morphologies compared with the PU-EFB foams that had coarse and irregular cell sizes, especially at 7.5wt% EFB. These findings were manifested with the gradually increase of compressive strength of PU-PPF at all PPF ratios while for PU-EFB system, the compressive strength increased up to 5 wt% before reduced at 7.5 wt% loading. It was thought due to the residual oil in PPF fibre had plasticized the PU matrix to a little extent, thus helping the dispersion of PPF fibre across the matrix.

Examining Changes in Radioxenon Isotope Activity Ratios during Subsurface Transport

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Annewandter, Robert

2014-05-01

The Non-Proliferation Experiment (NPE) has demonstrated and modelled the usefulness of barometric pumping induced gas transport and subsequent soil gas sampling during On-Site inspections. Generally, gas transport has been widely studied with different numerical codes. However, gas transport of radioxenons and radioiodines in the post-detonation regime and their possible fractionation is still neglected in the open peer-reviewed literature. Atmospheric concentrations of the radioxenons Xe-135, Xe-133m, Xe-133 and Xe-131m can be used to discriminate between civilian releases (nuclear power plants or medical isotope facilities), and nuclear explosion sources. It is based on the multiple isotopic activity ratio method. Yet it is not clear whether subsurface migration of the radionuclides, with eventual release into the atmosphere, can affect the activity ratios due to fractionation. Fractionation can be caused by different mass diffusivities due to mass differences between the radionuclides. Cyclical changes in atmospheric pressure can drive subsurface gas transport. This barometric pumping phenomenon causes an oscillatoric flow in upward trending fractures or highly conductive faults which, combined with diffusion into the porous matrix, leads to a net transport of gaseous components - a so-called ratcheting effect. We use a general purpose reservoir simulator (Complex System Modelling Platform, CSMP++) which is recognized by the oil industry as leading in Discrete Fracture-Matrix (DFM) simulations. It has been applied in a range of fields such as deep geothermal systems, three-phase black oil simulations, fracture propagation in fractured, porous media, and Navier-Stokes pore-scale modelling among others. It is specifically designed to account for structurally complex geologic situation of fractured, porous media. Parabolic differential equations are solved by a continuous Galerkin finite-element method, hyperbolic differential equations by a complementary finite volume method. The parabolic and hyperbolic problem can be solved separately by operator-splitting. The resulting system of linear equations is solved by the algebraic multigrid library SAMG, developed at the Fraunhofer Institute for Algorithms and Scientific Computing, Germany. CSMP++ is developed at Montan University of Leoben, ETH Zuerich, Imperial College London and Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. This study examines barometric pumping-driven subsurface transport of Xe-135, Xe-133m, Xe-133, Xe-131m including I-131, I-133 and I-135 on arrival times and isotopic activity ratios. This work was funded by the CTBTO Research Award for Young Scientist and Engineers (2013).

Genetic types of oils in the petroliferous basins of Cuba

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Maksimov, S.P.; Botneva, T.A.; Pankina, R.G.

Two oil- and gas basins, the North Cuban and the Central Cuban, have been discovered in Cuba and the nearby offshore areas. The North Cuban basin developed as a result of a complete cycle of inter-plate geodynamic evolution (divergence-convergence-isostatic adjustment of the plates), and the South Cuban basin formed during the phase of convergence and isostatic adjustment of the plates. The hydrocarbon deposits discovered in the North Cuban basin are marked by their exceptional variety, and include deposits of light and heavy oils, and even asphalt. The geological conditions of their occurrence are also varied. In this paper the authorsmore » present the results of a study of the oils and a discussion of their association with the source beds. For Cuba the solution of these problems is of special importance owing to the complexity of its geological structure and, in particular, the presence of oil deposits of varied composition in the overthrust complexes of the eugeosynclinal and miogeosynclinal allochthon and para-autochthon, as well as in the sediments of the autochthonous complex. 4 references.« less

Experience and prospects of oil shale utilization for power production in Russia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Potapov, O. P.

2016-09-01

Due to termination of work at the Leningrad Shale Deposit, the Russian shale industry has been liquidated, including not only shale mining and processing but also research and engineering (including design) activities, because this deposit was the only commercially operated complex in Russia. UTT-3000 plants with solid heat carrier, created mainly by the Russian specialists under scientific guidance of members of Krzhizhanovsky Power Engineering Institute, passed under the control of Estonian engineers, who, alongside with their operation in Narva, construct similar plants in Kohtla-Jarve, having renamed the Galoter Process into the Enifit or Petroter. The main idea of this article is to substantiate the expediency of revival of the oil shale industry in Russia. Data on the UTT-3000 plants' advantages, shale oils, and gas properties is provided. Information on investments in an UTT-3000 plant and estimated cost of Leningrad oil shale mining at the Mezhdurechensk Strip Mine is given. For more detailed technical and economic assessment of construction of a complex for oil shale extraction and processing, it is necessary to develop a feasibility study, which should be the first stage of this work. Creation of such a complex will make it possible to produce liquid and gaseous power fuel from oil shale of Leningrad Deposit and provide the opportunity to direct for export the released volumes of oil and gas for the purposes of Russian budget currency replenishment.

Blocking and Blending: Different Assembly Models of Cyclodextrin and Sodium Caseinate at the Oil/Water Interface.

PubMed

Xu, Hua-Neng; Liu, Huan-Huan; Zhang, Lianfu

2015-08-25

The stability of cyclodextrin (CD)-based emulsions is attributed to the formation of a solid film of oil-CD complexes at the oil/water interface. However, competitive interactions between CDs and other components at the interface still need to be understood. Here we develop two different routes that allow the incorporation of a model protein (sodium caseinate, SC) into emulsions based on β-CD. One route is the components adsorbed simultaneously from a mixed solution to the oil/water interface (route I), and the other is SC was added to a previously established CD-stabilized interface (route II). The adsorption mechanism of β-CD modified by SC at the oil/water interface is investigated by rheological and optical methods. Strong sensitivity of the rheological behavior to the routes is indicated by both steady-state and small-deformation oscillatory experiments. Possible β-CD/SC interaction models at the interface are proposed. In route I, the protein, due to its higher affinity for the interface, adsorbs strongly at the interface with blocking of the adsorption of β-CD and formation of oil-CD complexes. In route II, the protein penetrates and blends into the preadsorbed layer of oil-CD complexes already formed at the interface. The revelation of interfacial assembly is expected to help better understand CD-based emulsions in natural systems and improve their designs in engineering applications.

Contrasting congener profiles for persistent organic pollutants and PAH monitoring in European storm petrels (Hydrobates pelagicus) breeding in Ireland: a preen oil versus feathers approach.

PubMed

Acampora, Heidi; White, Philip; Lyashevska, Olga; O'Connor, Ian

2018-04-05

Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are anthropogenic contaminants of environmental concern due to their persistence in the environment and capacity to accumulate in biota. Many of these contaminants have been found to have ill effects over wildlife and humans. Birds are known to be particularly affected through endocrine disruption and eggshell thinning. POPs have been banned or restricted through the Stockholm Convention (2001), making monitoring essential for tracking effects of regulation. Seabirds have been used as monitoring tools for being top predators and consuming a diverse array of prey in different trophic levels. Non-destructive sampling has become widely popular using feathers and preen oil, as opposed to carcasses and internal organs. This study aimed to set baseline levels of POP and PAH concentration in a highly pelagic and abundant seabird in Ireland and the Atlantic, the European storm petrel, Hydrobates pelagicus, and to investigate the profiles of contaminant congeners in preen oil and feathers, comparatively. Mean concentrations in preen oil followed: PCB (10.1 ng/g ww) > PAH (7.1 ng/g ww) > OCP (5.4 ng/g ww) > PBDE (3.9 ng/g ww), whilst mean concentrations in feathers followed the order: PAH (38.9 ng/g ww) > PCB (27.2 ng/g ww) > OCP (17.9 ng/g ww) > PBDE (4.5 ng/g ww). Congener profiles highly differed between preen oil and feathers, and little correlation was found between the matrices. These results demonstrate that the sampling of a single matrix alone (preen oil or feathers) might produce confounding results on contamination in seabirds and that more than one matrix is recommended to obtain a full picture of contamination by persistent organic pollutants.

Enzyme-modified starch as an oil delivery system for bake-only chicken nuggets.

PubMed

Purcell, Sarah; Wang, Ya-Jane; Seo, Han-Seok

2014-05-01

This study investigated the effects of enzyme modification on starch as an effective oil delivery system for bake-only chicken nuggets. Various native starches were hydrolyzed by amyloglucosidase to a hydrolysis degree of 20% to 25% and plated with 50% (w/w, starch dry basis) with canola oil to create a starch-oil matrix. This matrix was then blended into a dry ingredient blend for batter and breader components. Nuggets were prepared by coated with predust, hydrated batter, and breader, and the coated nuggets were steam-baked until fully cooked and then frozen until texture and sensory analyses. The enzyme-modified starches showed a significant decrease in pasting viscosities for all starch types. For textural properties of nuggets, no clear relationship was found between peak force and starch source or amylose content. Sensory attributes related to fried foods (for example, crispness and mouth-coating) did not significantly differ between bake-only nuggets formulated using the enzyme-modified starches and the partially fried and baked ones. The present findings suggest that enzyme-modified starches can deliver sufficient quantity of oil to create sensory attributes similar to those of partially fried chicken nuggets. Further study is needed to optimize the coating formulation of bake-only chicken nugget to become close to the fried one in sensory aspects. The food industry has become increasingly focused on healthier items. Frying imparts several critical and desirable product functionalities, such as developing texture and color, and providing mouth-feel and flavor. The food industry has yet to duplicate all of the unique characteristics of fried chicken nuggets with a baking process. This study investigated the application of enzyme-modified starch as an oil delivery system in bake-only chicken nugget formulation in attempts to provide characteristics of fried items. This information is useful to improve the nutritional value of fried food by eliminating the frying process while preserving the desired characteristics of fried products. © 2014 Institute of Food Technologists®

Methodological development for 87Sr/86Sr measurement in olive oil and preliminary discussion of its use for geographical traceability of PDO Nîmes (France).

PubMed

Medini, Salim; Janin, Myriam; Verdoux, Patrick; Techer, Isabelle

2015-03-15

The lack of a geographical identification protocol for olive oils can lead to fraud and health risks. As some works call for Sr isotopes for the geographical identification of agri-food products, this study focus on the feasibility of extracting Sr from olive oils for isotopic measurements by TIMS. In fact, existing protocols for purification of Sr are unsuitable for lipid matrix. The defined protocol is applied to samples of PDO Nîmes olive oil. The accuracy of the extraction procedure is tested against isotopic standards. The values obtained are in conformity with NIST certified values. This consistency demonstrates that no modification of (87)Sr/(86)Sr ratio is brought about by this protocol. Consequently, the method is preliminary used on PDO Nîmes and Moroccan oils to evaluate the feasibility of a discriminant Sr signature on the two geographical products. This study provides promising results for the geographical discrimination and identification of PDO olive oils. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Ionic liquid based ultrasonication-assisted extraction of essential oil from the leaves of Persicaria minor and conductor-like screening model for realistic solvents study].

PubMed

Habib, Ullah; Cecilia, D Wilfred; Maizatul, S Shaharun

2017-06-08

Ionic liquids (ILs) based ultrasonic-assisted extract has been applied for the extraction of essential oil from Persicaria minor leaves. The effects of temperature, sonication time, and particle size of the plant material on the yield of essential oil were investigated. Among the different ILs employed, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate was the most effective, providing a 9.55% yield of the essential oil under optimum conditions (70 ℃, 25 min, IL:hexane ratio of 7:10 (v/v), particle size 60-80 mesh). The performance of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate in the extraction was attributed to its low viscosity and ability to disintegrate the structural matrix of the plant material. The ability of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate was also confirmed using the conductor like-screening model for realistic solvents. This research proves that ILs can be used to extract essential oils from lignocellulosic biomass.

Preparation of non-porous microspheres with high entrapment efficiency of proteins by a (water-in-oil)-in-oil emulsion technique.

PubMed

Viswanathan, N B; Thomas, P A; Pandit, J K; Kulkarni, M G; Mashelkar, R A

1999-03-08

Emulsification-solvent removal methods have been widely used for encapsulating bioactive macromolecules like proteins and polypeptides in biodegradable polymers. We report, a (water-in-oil)-in-oil emulsion technique wherein proteins and polypeptides differing in molecular weight and shape were encapsulated in polymers of current biomedical interest. When an oil was used as the processing medium in combination with a carefully selected mixed solvent system such that a stable (w/o1/o2 emulsion is formed and solvents are removed by a combination of extraction and evaporation, the entrapment efficiency was high and the product nonporous. The entrapment efficiency of globular proteins exceeded 90% while that of fibrous proteins was around 70%. Fracture studies revealed that the polymer matrix was dense. The mechanism of entrapment involved solvent-induced precipitation of the protein as the microspheres were being formed. The principle of the method will find use in preparation of non-porous polymer microparticles with reduced burst effect.

Exploring for oil with nuclear physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mauborgne, Marie-Laure; Allioli, Françoise; Stoller, Chris; Evans, Mike; Manclossi, Mauro; Nicoletti, Luisa

2017-09-01

Oil↓eld service companies help identify and assess reserves and future production for oil and gas reservoirs, by providing petrophysical information on rock formations. Some parameters of interest are the fraction of pore space in the rock, the quantity of oil or gas contained in the pores, the lithology or composition of the rock matrix, and the ease with which 'uids 'ow through the rock, i.e. its permeability. Downhole logging tools acquire various measurements based on electromagnetic, acoustic, magnetic resonance and nuclear physics to determine properties of the subsurface formation surrounding the wellbore. This introduction to nuclear measurements applied in the oil and gas industry reviews the most advanced nuclear measurements currently in use, including capture and inelastic gamma ray spectroscopy, neutron-gamma density, thermal neutron capture cross section, natural gamma ray, gamma-gamma density, and neutron porosity. A brief description of the technical challenges associated with deploying nuclear technology in the extreme environmental conditions of an oil well is also presented.

Topological and thermal properties of polypropylene composites based on oil palm biomass

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bhat, A. H., E-mail: aamir.bhat@petronas.com.my, E-mail: anie-yal88@yahoo.com; Dasan, Y. K., E-mail: aamir.bhat@petronas.com.my, E-mail: anie-yal88@yahoo.com

Roughness on pristine and polymer composite surfaces is of enormous practical importance for polymer applications. This study deals with the use of varying quantity of oil palm ash as a nanofiller in a polypropylene based matrix. The oil palm ash sample was preprocessed to break the particles into small diameter by using ultra sonication before using microfluidizer for further deduction in size and homogenization. The oil palm ash was made to undergo many passes through the microfluidizer for fine distribution of particles. Polypropylene based composites containing different loading percentage oil palm ash was granulated by twin screw extruder and thenmore » injection molded. The surface morphology of the OPA passed through microfluidizer was analyzed by Tapping Mode - Atomic Force Microscopy (TMAFM). Thermal analysis results showed an increase in the activation energy values. The thermal stability of the composite samples showed improvement as compared to the virgin polymer as corroborated by the on-set degradation temperatures and the temperatures at which 50% degradation occurred.« less

Cyclic steaming in heavy oil diatomite

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kumar, M.; Beatty, F.D.

1995-12-31

Chevron currently uses cyclic steaming as a recovery method to produce economically its heavy oil diatomite resource in the Cymric field, San Joaquin Valley, California. A highly instrumented, cyclically steaming well from this field was simulated in this study to delineate important production mechanisms, to optimize operations, and to improve reservoir management. The model was constrained, as much as possible, by the available measured data. Results show that fluid flow from the well to the reservoir is primarily through the hydraulic fracture induced by the injected steam. Parameters with unique importance to modeling cyclic steaming in diatomites are: (1) inducedmore » fracture dimension (length and height), (2) matrix permeability, (3) oil/water capillary pressure, (4) grid size perpendicular to fracture face, and (5) producing bottomhole pressures. Additionally, parameters important for conventional steam injection processes, such as relative permeabilities and injected steam volume, quality, and rate, are important for diatomites also. Oil production rates and steam/oil ratios calculated by this model compare reasonably with field data.« less

On multivariate trace inequalities of Sutter, Berta, and Tomamichel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lemm, Marius

2018-01-01

We consider a family of multivariate trace inequalities recently derived by Sutter, Berta, and Tomamichel. These inequalities generalize the Golden-Thompson inequality and Lieb's triple matrix inequality to an arbitrary number of matrices in a way that features complex matrix powers (i.e., certain unitaries). We show that their inequalities can be rewritten as an n-matrix generalization of Lieb's original triple matrix inequality. The complex matrix powers are replaced by resolvents and appropriate maximally entangled states. We expect that the technically advantageous properties of resolvents, in particular for perturbation theory, can be of use in applications of the n-matrix inequalities, e.g., for analyzing the performance of the rotated Petz recovery map in quantum information theory and for removing the unitaries altogether.

New antioxidants and antioxidant systems for improvement of the stability of vegetable oils and fish oils

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Most vegetable oils and fish oils contain polyunsaturated fatty acids ranging from 18 carbons with two to three double bonds, to 22 or 24 carbons, and up to six double bonds. Nutritional research over the years has indicated that individual fatty acids from the diet play a complex role in nutrition ...

In situ localization of nucleolin in the plant nucleolar matrix.

PubMed

Minguez, A; Moreno Diaz de la Espina, S

1996-01-10

The analysis of isolated nucleolar matrices from onion cells by light and electron microscopy, 2-D separation of proteins, and confocal microscopy has confirmed the existence of an organized nucleolar matrix with a complex protein composition to which are attached the insoluble processing complexes. In the present work, we present evidence from immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, immunogold labeling, and preferential cytochemical staining with bismuth salts that an insoluble fraction of the multifunctional protein nucleolin, is a component of the onion nucleolar matrix, and analyse its ultrastructural distribution in the described domains of the matrix.

WRI1-1, ABI5, NF-YA3 and NF-YC2 increase oil biosynthesis in coordination with hormonal signaling during fruit development in oil palm.

PubMed

Yeap, Wan-Chin; Lee, Fong-Chin; Shabari Shan, Dilip Kumar; Musa, Hamidah; Appleton, David Ross; Kulaveerasingam, Harikrishna

2017-07-01

The oil biosynthesis pathway must be tightly controlled to maximize oil yield. Oil palm accumulates exceptionally high oil content in its mesocarp, suggesting the existence of a unique fruit-specific fatty acid metabolism transcriptional network. We report the complex fruit-specific network of transcription factors responsible for modulation of oil biosynthesis genes in oil palm mesocarp. Transcriptional activation of EgWRI1-1 encoding a key master regulator that activates expression of oil biosynthesis genes, is activated by three ABA-responsive transcription factors, EgNF-YA3, EgNF-YC2 and EgABI5. Overexpression of EgWRI1-1 and its activators in Arabidopsis accelerated flowering, increased seed size and oil content, and altered expression levels of oil biosynthesis genes. Protein-protein interaction experiments demonstrated that EgNF-YA3 interacts directly with EgWRI1-1, forming a transcription complex with EgNF-YC2 and EgABI5 to modulate transcription of oil biosynthesis pathway genes. Furthermore, EgABI5 acts downstream of EgWRKY40, a repressor that interacts with EgWRKY2 to inhibit the transcription of oil biosynthesis genes. We showed that expression of these activators and repressors in oil biosynthesis can be induced by phytohormones coordinating fruit development in oil palm. We propose a model highlighting a hormone signaling network coordinating fruit development and fatty acid biosynthesis. © 2017 The Authors The Plant Journal © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Multispecies Adulteration Detection of Camellia Oil by Chemical Markers.

PubMed

Dou, Xinjing; Mao, Jin; Zhang, Liangxiao; Xie, Huali; Chen, Lin; Yu, Li; Ma, Fei; Wang, Xiupin; Zhang, Qi; Li, Peiwu

2018-01-25

Adulteration of edible oils has attracted attention from more researchers and consumers in recent years. Complex multispecies adulteration is a commonly used strategy to mask the traditional adulteration detection methods. Most of the researchers were only concerned about single targeted adulterants, however, it was difficult to identify complex multispecies adulteration or untargeted adulterants. To detect adulteration of edible oil, identification of characteristic markers of adulterants was proposed to be an effective method, which could provide a solution for multispecies adulteration detection. In this study, a simple method of multispecies adulteration detection for camellia oil (adulterated with soybean oil, peanut oil, rapeseed oil) was developed by quantifying chemical markers including four isoflavones, trans-resveratrol and sinapic acid, which used liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) combined with solid phase extraction (SPE). In commercial camellia oil, only two of them were detected of daidzin with the average content of 0.06 ng/g while other markers were absent. The developed method was highly sensitive as the limits of detection (LODs) ranged from 0.02 ng/mL to 0.16 ng/mL and the mean recoveries ranged from 79.7% to 113.5%, indicating that this method was reliable to detect potential characteristic markers in edible oils. Six target compounds for pure camellia oils, soybean oils, peanut oils and rapeseed oils had been analyzed to get the results. The validation results indicated that this simple and rapid method was successfully employed to determine multispecies adulteration of camellia oil adulterated with soybean, peanut and rapeseed oils.

Habitat-related variation in composition of the essential oil of Seseli rigidum Waldst. & Kit. (Apiaceae).

PubMed

Marčetić, Mirjana; Kovačević, Nada; Lakušić, Dmitar; Lakušić, Branislava

2017-03-01

Plant specialised metabolites like essential oils are highly variable depending on genetic and various ecological factors. The aim of the present work was to characterise essential oils of the species Seseli rigidum Waldst. & Kit. (Apiaceae) in various organs on the individual and populational levels. Geographical variability and the impact of climate and soil type on essential oil composition were also investigated. Individually sampled essential oils of roots, aerial parts and fruits of plants from seven populations were analysed by GC-FID and GC-MS. The investigated populations showed high interpopulational and especially intrapopulational variability of essential oil composition. In regard to the variability of essential oils, different chemotypes were defined. The essential oils of S. rigidum roots represented a falcarinol chemotype, oils of aerial parts constituted an α-pinene or α-pinene/sabinene chemotype and fruit essential oils can be characterised as belonging to a complex sabinene/α-pinene/β-phellandrene/falcarinol/germacrene B chemotype. At the species level, analysis of variance (ANOVA), principal component analysis (PCA) and canonical discriminant analysis (CDA) showed that the plant part exerted the strongest influence on the composition of essential oils. Climate had a high impact on composition of the essential oils of roots, aerial parts and fruits, while influence of the substrate was less pronounced. The variations in main compounds of essential oils based on climate or substrate were complex and specific to the plant part. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ferrell, Jack R; Ware, Anne E

Two catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) oils (bottom/heavy fraction) were analyzed in various solvents that are used in common analytical methods (nuclear magnetic resonance - NMR, gas chromatography - GC, gel permeation chromatography - GPC, thermogravimetric analysis - TGA) for oil characterization and speciation. A more accurate analysis of the CFP oils can be obtained by identification and exploitation of solvent miscibility characteristics. Acetone and tetrahydrofuran can be used to completely solubilize CFP oils for analysis by GC and tetrahydrofuran can be used for traditional organic GPC analysis of the oils. DMSO-d6 can be used to solubilize CFP oils for analysismore » by 13C NMR. The fractionation of oils into solvents that did not completely solubilize the whole oils showed that miscibility can be related to the oil properties. This allows for solvent selection based on physico-chemical properties of the oils. However, based on semi-quantitative comparisons of the GC chromatograms, the organic solvent fractionation schemes did not speciate the oils based on specific analyte type. On the other hand, chlorinated solvents did fractionate the oils based on analyte size to a certain degree. Unfortunately, like raw pyrolysis oil, the matrix of the CFP oils is complicated and is not amenable to simple liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) or solvent fractionation to separate the oils based on the chemical and/or physical properties of individual components. For reliable analyses, for each analytical method used, it is critical that the bio-oil sample is both completely soluble and also not likely to react with the chosen solvent. The adoption of the standardized solvent selection protocols presented here will allow for greater reproducibility of analysis across different users and facilities.« less

A MODEL FOR DIFFUSION CONTROLLED BIOAVAILABILITY OF CRUDE OIL COMPONENTS

EPA Science Inventory

Crude oil is a complex mixture of several different structural classes of compounds including alkanes, aromatics, heterocyclic polar compounds, and asphaltenes. The rate and extent of microbial degradation of crude oil depends on the interaction between the physical and biochemi...

Discrimination of petroleum fluorescence spectra.

PubMed

Stelmaszewski, Adam

2007-01-01

This paper presents studies of the total spectra (fluorescence-excitation matrix) of petroleum with regard to the utilization of fluorescence for determining petroleum pollutants. Thorough testing of one group, comprising almost forty lubricating oils in the form of their hexane solutions, points out their discrimination.

Photochemistry of formaldoxime−nitrous acid complexes in an argon matrix: identification of formaldoxime nitrite.

PubMed

Golec, Barbara; Bil, Andrzej; Mielke, Zofia

2009-08-27

We have studied the structure and photochemistry of the formaldoxime−nitrous acid system (CH2NOH−HONO) by help of FTIR matrix isolation spectroscopy and ab initio methods. The MP2/6-311++G(2d,2p) calculations show stability of six isomeric CH2NOH···HONO complexes. The FTIR spectra evidence formation of two hydrogen bonded complexes in an argon matrix whose structures are determined by comparison of the experimental spectra with the calculated ones for the six stable complexes. In the matrix there is present the most stable cyclic complex with two O−H···N bonds; a strong bond is formed between the OH group of HONO and the N atom of CH2NOH and the weaker one between the OH group of CH2NOH and the N atom of HONO. In the other complex present in the matrix the OH group of formaldoxime is attached to the OH group of HONO forming an O−H···O bond. The irradiation of the CH2NOH···HONO complexes with the filtered output of the mercury lamp (λ > 345 nm) leads to the formation of formaldoxime nitrite, CH2NONO, and its two isomeric complexes with water. The main product is the CH2NONO···H2O complex in which water is hydrogen bonded to the N atom of the C═N group. The identity of the photoproducts is confirmed by both FTIR spectroscopy and MP2 or QCISD(full) calculations with the 6-311++G(2d,2p) basis set. The intermediate in this reaction is iminoxyl radical that is formed by abstraction of hydrogen atom from formaldoxime OH group by an OH radical originating from HONO photolysis.

EXPLOITATION AND OPTIMIZATION OF RESERVOIR PERFORMANCE IN HUNTON FORMATION, OKLAHOMA

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mohan Kelkar

2002-03-31

The West Carney Field in Lincoln County, Oklahoma is one of few newly discovered oil fields in Oklahoma. Although profitable, the field exhibits several unusual characteristics. These include decreasing water-oil ratios, decreasing gas-oil ratios, decreasing bottomhole pressures during shut-ins in some wells, and transient behavior for water production in many wells. This report explains the unusual characteristics of West Carney Field based on detailed geological and engineering analyses. We propose a geological history that explains the presence of mobile water and oil in the reservoir. The combination of matrix and fractures in the reservoir explains the reservoir's flow behavior. Wemore » confirm our hypothesis by matching observed performance with a simulated model and develop procedures for correlating core data to log data so that the analysis can be extended to other, similar fields where the core coverage may be limited.« less

Classification of 'Chemlali' accessions according to the geographical area using chemometric methods of phenolic profiles analysed by HPLC-ESI-TOF-MS.

PubMed

Taamalli, Amani; Arráez Román, David; Zarrouk, Mokhtar; Segura-Carretero, Antonio; Fernández-Gutiérrez, Alberto

2012-05-01

The present work describes a classification method of Tunisian 'Chemlali' olive oils based on their phenolic composition and geographical area. For this purpose, the data obtained by HPLC-ESI-TOF-MS from 13 samples of extra virgin olive oils, obtained from different production area throughout the country, were used for this study focusing in 23 phenolics compounds detected. The quantitative results showed a significant variability among the analysed oil samples. Factor analysis method using principal component was applied to the data in order to reduce the number of factors which explain the variability of the selected compounds. The data matrix constructed was subjected to a canonical discriminant analysis (CDA) in order to classify the oil samples. These results showed that 100% of cross-validated original group cases were correctly classified, which proves the usefulness of the selected variables. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Headspace versus direct immersion solid phase microextraction in complex matrixes: investigation of analyte behavior in multicomponent mixtures.

PubMed

Gionfriddo, Emanuela; Souza-Silva, Érica A; Pawliszyn, Janusz

2015-08-18

This work aims to investigate the behavior of analytes in complex mixtures and matrixes with the use of solid-phase microextraction (SPME). Various factors that influence analyte uptake such as coating chemistry, extraction mode, the physicochemical properties of analytes, and matrix complexity were considered. At first, an aqueous system containing analytes bearing different hydrophobicities, molecular weights, and chemical functionalities was investigated by using commercially available liquid and solid porous coatings. The differences in the mass transfer mechanisms resulted in a more pronounced occurrence of coating saturation in headspace mode. Contrariwise, direct immersion extraction minimizes the occurrence of artifacts related to coating saturation and provides enhanced extraction of polar compounds. In addition, matrix-compatible PDMS-modified solid coatings, characterized by a new morphology that avoids coating fouling, were compared to their nonmodified analogues. The obtained results indicate that PDMS-modified coatings reduce artifacts associated with coating saturation, even in headspace mode. This factor, coupled to their matrix compatibility, make the use of direct SPME very practical as a quantification approach and the best choice for metabolomics studies where wide coverage is intended. To further understand the influence on analyte uptake on a system where additional interactions occur due to matrix components, ex vivo and in vivo sampling conditions were simulated using a starch matrix model, with the aim of mimicking plant-derived materials. Our results corroborate the fact that matrix handling can affect analyte/matrix equilibria, with consequent release of high concentrations of previously bound hydrophobic compounds, potentially leading to coating saturation. Direct immersion SPME limited the occurrence of the artifacts, which confirms the suitability of SPME for in vivo applications. These findings shed light into the implementation of in vivo SPME strategies in quantitative metabolomics studies of complex plant-based systems.

Antibacterial activity and mechanical properties of partially hydrolyzed sago starch-alginate edible film containing lemongrass oil.

PubMed

Maizura, M; Fazilah, A; Norziah, M H; Karim, A A

2007-08-01

Edible films were prepared from a mixture of partially hydrolyzed sago starch and alginate (SA). Lemongrass oil (0.1% to 0.4%, v/w) and glycerol (0% and 20%, w/w) were incorporated in the films to act as natural antimicrobial agent and plasticizer, respectively. The films were characterized for antimicrobial activity, water vapor permeability (WVP), tensile strength (TS), percent elongation at break (%E), and water solubility (WS). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was conducted to determine functional group interactions between the matrix and lemongrass oil. The zone of inhibition was increased significantly (P < 0.05) by addition of lemongrass oil at all levels in the presence and the absence of glycerol. This indicates that the film containing lemongrass oil was effective against Escherichia coli O157:H7 at all levels. In the absence of glycerol, the tensile strength of film decreased as the oil content increased, but there was no significant (P > 0.05) difference in percent elongation. The percent elongation at break and WVP values for film with 20% glycerol was found to be increased significantly (P < 0.05) with an increase in lemongrass oil content. Addition of lemongrass oil did not have any interaction with the functional groups of films as measured by FTIR.

Efficacy of bioactive compounds from extra virgin olive oil to modulate atherosclerosis development.

PubMed

Lou-Bonafonte, José M; Arnal, Carmen; Navarro, María A; Osada, Jesús

2012-07-01

As olive oil is the main source of calories in the Mediterranean diet, a great deal of research has been devoted to characterizing its role in atherosclerosis. Virgin olive oil is an oily matrix that contains hydrocarbons, mainly squalene; triterpenes such as uvaol, erythrodiol, oleanolic, and maslinic acid; phytosterols; and a wide range of phenolic compounds comprising simple phenols, flavonoids, secoiridoids, and lignans. In this review, we analyze the studies dealing with atherosclerosis and olive oil in several species. A protective role of virgin olive oil against atherosclerosis has been shown in ApoE-deficient mice and hamsters. In the former animal, sex, dose, and dietary cholesterol are modulators of the outcome. Contradictory findings have been reported for rabbits, a circumstance that could be due to the profusion of experimental designs, differing in terms of doses and animal strains, as well as sources of olive oils. This role has yet to be fully validated in humans. Minor components of olive oil have been shown to be involved in atherosclerosis protection. Nevertheless, evidence of the potential of isolated compounds or the right combination of them to achieve the antiatherosclerotic effect of virgin olive oil is inconclusive and will undoubtedly require further experimental support. © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Improvement of mineral oil saturated and aromatic hydrocarbons determination in edible oil by liquid-liquid-gas chromatography with dual detection.

PubMed

Zoccali, Mariosimone; Barp, Laura; Beccaria, Marco; Sciarrone, Danilo; Purcaro, Giorgia; Mondello, Luigi

2016-02-01

Mineral oils, which are mainly composed of saturated hydrocarbons and aromatic hydrocarbons, are widespread food contaminants. Liquid chromatography coupled to gas chromatography with flame ionization detection represents the method of choice to determine these two families. However, despite the high selectivity of this technique, the presence of olefins (particularly squalene and its isomers) in some samples as in olive oils, does not allow the correct quantification of the mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons fraction, requiring additional off-line tools to eliminate them. In the present research, a novel on-line liquid chromatography coupled to gas chromatography method is described for the determination of hydrocarbon contamination in edible oils. Two different liquid chromatography columns, namely a silica one (to retain the bulk of the matrix) and a silver-ion one (which better retains the olefins), were coupled in series to obtain the mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons hump free of interfering peaks. Furthermore, the use of a simultaneous dual detection, flame ionization detector and triple quadrupole mass spectrometer allowed us not only to quantify the mineral oil contamination, but also to evaluate the presence of specific markers (i.e. hopanes) to confirm the petrogenic origin of the contamination. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Fingerprinting of egg and oil binders in painted artworks by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis of lipid oxidation by-products.

PubMed

Calvano, C D; van der Werf, I D; Palmisano, F; Sabbatini, L

2011-06-01

A matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry-based approach was applied for the detection of various lipid classes, such as triacylglycerols (TAGs) and phospholipids (PLs), and their oxidation by-products in extracts of small (50-100 μg) samples obtained from painted artworks. Ageing of test specimens under various conditions, including the presence of different pigments, was preliminarily investigated. During ageing, the TAGs and PLs content decreased, whereas the amount of diglycerides, short-chain oxidative products arising from TAGs and PLs, and oxidized TAGs and PLs components increased. The examination of a series of model paint samples gave a clear indication that specific ions produced by oxidative cleavage of PLs and/or TAGs may be used as markers for egg and drying oil-based binders. Their elemental composition and hypothetical structure are also tentatively proposed. Moreover, the simultaneous presence of egg and oil binders can be easily and unambiguously ascertained through the simultaneous occurrence of the relevant specific markers. The potential of the proposed approach was demonstrated for the first time by the analysis of real samples from a polyptych of Bartolomeo Vivarini (fifteenth century) and a "French school" canvas painting (seventeenth century).

Physical, Spatial, and Molecular Aspects of Extracellular Matrix of In Vivo Niches and Artificial Scaffolds Relevant to Stem Cells Research

PubMed Central

Akhmanova, Maria; Osidak, Egor; Domogatsky, Sergey; Rodin, Sergey; Domogatskaya, Anna

2015-01-01

Extracellular matrix can influence stem cell choices, such as self-renewal, quiescence, migration, proliferation, phenotype maintenance, differentiation, or apoptosis. Three aspects of extracellular matrix were extensively studied during the last decade: physical properties, spatial presentation of adhesive epitopes, and molecular complexity. Over 15 different parameters have been shown to influence stem cell choices. Physical aspects include stiffness (or elasticity), viscoelasticity, pore size, porosity, amplitude and frequency of static and dynamic deformations applied to the matrix. Spatial aspects include scaffold dimensionality (2D or 3D) and thickness; cell polarity; area, shape, and microscale topography of cell adhesion surface; epitope concentration, epitope clustering characteristics (number of epitopes per cluster, spacing between epitopes within cluster, spacing between separate clusters, cluster patterns, and level of disorder in epitope arrangement), and nanotopography. Biochemical characteristics of natural extracellular matrix molecules regard diversity and structural complexity of matrix molecules, affinity and specificity of epitope interaction with cell receptors, role of non-affinity domains, complexity of supramolecular organization, and co-signaling by growth factors or matrix epitopes. Synergy between several matrix aspects enables stem cells to retain their function in vivo and may be a key to generation of long-term, robust, and effective in vitro stem cell culture systems. PMID:26351461

Assessment of undiscovered oil and gas resources of the Ordovician Utica Shale of the Appalachian Basin Province, 2012

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kirschbaum, Mark A.; Schenk, Christopher J.; Cook, Troy A.; Ryder, Robert T.; Charpentier, Ronald R.; Klett, Timothy R.; Gaswirth, Stephanie B.; Tennyson, Marilyn E.; Whidden, Katherine J.

2012-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey assessed unconventional oil and gas resources of the Upper Ordovician Utica Shale and adjacent units in the Appalachian Basin Province. The assessment covers parts of Maryland, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. The geologic concept is that black shale of the Utica Shale and adjacent units generated hydrocarbons from Type II organic material in areas that are thermally mature for oil and gas. The source rocks generated petroleum that migrated into adjacent units, but also retained significant hydrocarbons within the matrix and adsorbed to organic matter of the shale. These are potentially technically recoverable resources that can be exploited by using horizontal drilling combined with hydraulic fracturing techniques.

JPRS Report, East Europe

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-10-29

nonferrous ores in quarries and underground; Installations for desulfurization , cleaning, and dry- ing of gas , turbocompressors for methane gas ; Mining...Products Exportation Bucharest Minis- "Indus- try of trial- Foreign Drilling installations and equipment for oil and gas ; export- Trade...equipment; try of Refineries, complex installations, parts, and equip- the ment for the oil- and gas -refining industry; Heavy Factories, complex

1. View of engine terminal complex looking westnorthwest from east ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

1. View of engine terminal complex looking west-northwest from east side of Phillips Drive. Shown are (left to right) the south roundhouse, the machine and blacksmith shops, the storehouse, the oil house, and the coaling sation (behind the oil house in this view). - Central Railroad of New Jersey, Engine Terminal, Jersey City, Hudson County, NJ

Interfacial sciences in unconventional petroleum production: from fundamentals to applications.

PubMed

He, Lin; Lin, Feng; Li, Xingang; Sui, Hong; Xu, Zhenghe

2015-08-07

With the ever increasing demand for energy to meet the needs of growth in population and improvement in the living standards in particular in developing countries, the abundant unconventional oil reserves (about 70% of total world oil), such as heavy oil, oil/tar sands and shale oil, are playing an increasingly important role in securing global energy supply. Compared with the conventional reserves unconventional oil reserves are characterized by extremely high viscosity and density, combined with complex chemistry. As a result, petroleum production from unconventional oil reserves is much more difficult and costly with more serious environmental impacts. As a key underpinning science, understanding the interfacial phenomena involved in unconventional petroleum production, such as oil liberation from host rocks, oil-water emulsions and demulsification, is critical for developing novel processes to improve oil production while reducing GHG emission and other environmental impacts at a lower operating cost. In the past decade, significant efforts and advances have been made in applying the principles of interfacial sciences to better understand complex unconventional oil-systems, while many environmental and production challenges remain. In this critical review, the recent research findings and progress in the interfacial sciences related to unconventional petroleum production are critically reviewed. In particular, the chemistry of unconventional oils, liberation mechanisms of oil from host rocks and mechanisms of emulsion stability and destabilization in unconventional oil production systems are discussed in detail. This review also seeks to summarize the current state-of-the-art characterization techniques and brings forward the challenges and opportunities for future research in this important field of physical chemistry and petroleum.

Combined toxicity of three essential oils against Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Essential oils are potential alternatives to synthetic insecticides because they have low mammalian toxicity, degrade rapidly in the environment, and possess complex mixtures of bioactive constituents with multi-modal activity against the target insect populations. Twenty one essential oils were ini...

Turmoil: A Simulation Game Dealing With International Oil Trade

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kelly, Robert

1976-01-01

This simulation game is intended to help secondary students understand the complexities of the international oil trade. Students represent nations involved in trading oil and other commodities. The game takes about five classroom periods to teach. The article includes all essential materials. (Author/RM)

Ecological policy in oil-gas complexes, HSE MS implementation in oil and gas company

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kochetkova, O. P.; Glyzina, T. S.; Vazim, A. A.; Tugutova, S. S.

2016-09-01

The paper considers the following issues: HSE MS international standard implementation in oil and gas industry, taking into account international practices; implementation of standards in oil and gas companies; policy in the field of environmental protection and occupational health and safety; achievement of planned indicators and targets in environmental protection and occupational health and safety.

Biodegradation of complex hydrocarbons in spent engine oil by novel bacterial consortium isolated from deep sea sediment.

PubMed

Ganesh Kumar, A; Vijayakumar, Lakshmi; Joshi, Gajendra; Magesh Peter, D; Dharani, G; Kirubagaran, R

2014-10-01

Complex hydrocarbon and aromatic compounds degrading marine bacterial strains were isolated from deep sea sediment after enrichment on spent engine (SE) oil. Phenotypic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences showed the isolates were related to members of the Pseudoalteromonas sp., Ruegeria sp., Exiguobacterium sp. and Acinetobacter sp. Biodegradation using 1% (v/v) SE oil with individual and mixed strains showed the efficacy of SE oil utilization within a short retention time. The addition of non-ionic surfactant 0.05% (v/v) Tween 80 as emulsifying agent enhanced the solubility of hydrocarbons and renders them more accessible for biodegradation. The degradation of several compounds and the metabolites formed during the microbial oxidation process were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses. The potential of this consortium to biodegrade SE oil with and without emulsifying agent provides possible application in bioremediation of oil contaminated marine environment. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The stability of the international oil trade network from short-term and long-term perspectives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Qingru; Gao, Xiangyun; Zhong, Weiqiong; Liu, Nairong

2017-09-01

To examine the stability of the international oil trade network and explore the influence of countries and trade relationships on the trade stability, we construct weighted and unweighted international oil trade networks based on complex network theory using oil trading data between countries from 1996 to 2014. We analyze the stability of international oil trade network (IOTN) from short-term and long-term aspects. From the short-term perspective, we find that the trade volumes play an important role on the stability. Moreover, the weighted IOTN is stable; however, the unweighted networks can better reflect the actual evolution of IOTN. From the long-term perspective, we identify trade relationships that are maintained during the whole sample period to reveal the situation of the whole international oil trade. We provide a way to quantitatively measure the stability of complex network from short-term and long-term perspectives, which can be applied to measure and analyze trade stability of other goods or services.

Disentangling oil weathering using GC x GC. 1. chromatogram analysis.

PubMed

Arey, J Samuel; Nelson, Robert K; Reddy, Christopher M

2007-08-15

Historically, the thousands of compounds found in oils constituted an "unresolved complex mixture" that frustrated efforts to analyze oil weathering. Moreover, different weathering processes inflict rich and diverse signatures of compositional change in oil, and conventional methods do not effectively decode this elaborate record. Using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC x GC), we can separate thousands of hydrocarbon components and simultaneously estimate their chemical properties. We investigated 13 weathered field samples collected from the Bouchard 120 heavy fuel oil spill in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts in 2003. We first mapped hydrocarbon vapor pressures and aqueous solubilities onto the compositional space explored by GC x GC chromatograms of weathered samples. Then we developed methods to quantitatively decouple mass loss patterns associated with evaporation and dissolution. The compositional complexity of oil, traditionally considered an obstacle, was now an advantage. We exploited the large inventory of chemical information encoded in oil to robustly differentiate signatures of mass transfer to air and water. With this new approach, we can evaluate mass transfer models (the Part 2 companion to this paper) and more properly account for evaporation, dissolution, and degradation of oil in the environment.

Physicochemical and sensory properties of yogurt enriched with microencapsulated fish oil.

PubMed

Tamjidi, F; Nasirpour, A; Shahedi, M

2012-08-01

Encapsulation of marine omega-3 oil by complex coacervation technique has been introduced as most effective approach to delay its oxidation and extend shelf life of ω(3)-enriched food products. Therefore, to produce enriched yogurt, fish oil containing long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids was microencapsulated in complex coacervates of gelatin/acacia gum. Then, the microcapsules were dried and their surface oil was extracted. Set yogurt was prepared by enriched milk with microcapsules powder. Physicochemical and sensory properties of enriched yogurt were measured during 21 days storage. Acidity, apparent viscosity and water holding capacity of enriched samples were higher and gel strength and amount of whey separation were lower compared to the control. The enriched yogurt samples were more yellowish compared to control. The peroxide value of free and encapsulated fish oil in enriched yogurt samples, after 22 days storage, were increased to 72% and 260%, respectively. Fish oil release of microcapsules was not detected by gas chromatography in extracted oil from enriched yogurt. Sensory results showed that untrained panelists evaluated overall acceptance of enriched yogurt with treated-fish oil microcapsules by lime juice as 'neither liked nor disliked to slightly liked'.

Ochres and earths: matrix and chromophores characterization of 19th and 20th century artist materials.

PubMed

Montagner, Cristina; Sanches, Diogo; Pedroso, Joana; Melo, Maria João; Vilarigues, Márcia

2013-02-15

The present paper describes the main results obtained from the characterization of a wide range of natural and synthetic ochre samples used in Portugal from the 19th to the 20th century, including powder and oil painting samples. The powder ochre samples came from several commercial distributors and from the collection of Joaquim Rodrigo (1912-1997), a leading Portuguese artist, particularly active during the sixties and seventies. The micro-samples of oil painting tubes came from the Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea-Museu do Chiado (National Museum of Contemporary Art-Chiado Museum) in Lisbon and were used by Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro (1857-1929), one of the most prominent naturalist Portuguese painters. These tubes were produced by the main 19th century colourmen: Winsor & Newton, Morin et Janet, Maison Merlin, and Lefranc. The samples have been studied using μ-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (μ-FTIR), Raman microscopy, μ-Energy Dispersive X-ray fluorescence (μ-EDXRF), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The analyzed ochres were found to be a mixture of several components: iron oxides and hydroxides in matrixes with kaolinite, gypsum and chalk. The results obtained allowed to identify and characterize the ochres according to their matrix and chromophores. The main chromophores where identified by Raman microscopy as being hematite, goethite and magnetite. The infrared analysis of the ochre samples allowed to divide them into groups, according to the composition of the matrix. It was possible to separate ochres containing kaolinite matrix and/or sulfate matrix from ochres where only iron oxides and/or hydroxides were detected. μ-EDXRF and Raman were the best techniques to identify umber, since the presence of elements such as manganese is characteristic of these pigments. μ-EDXRF also revealed the presence of significant amounts of arsenic in all Sienna tube paints. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ochres and earths: Matrix and chromophores characterization of 19th and 20th century artist materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montagner, Cristina; Sanches, Diogo; Pedroso, Joana; Melo, Maria João; Vilarigues, Márcia

2013-02-01

The present paper describes the main results obtained from the characterization of a wide range of natural and synthetic ochre samples used in Portugal from the 19th to the 20th century, including powder and oil painting samples. The powder ochre samples came from several commercial distributors and from the collection of Joaquim Rodrigo (1912-1997), a leading Portuguese artist, particularly active during the sixties and seventies. The micro-samples of oil painting tubes came from the Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea-Museu do Chiado (National Museum of Contemporary Art-Chiado Museum) in Lisbon and were used by Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro (1857-1929), one of the most prominent naturalist Portuguese painters. These tubes were produced by the main 19th century colourmen: Winsor & Newton, Morin et Janet, Maison Merlin, and Lefranc. The samples have been studied using μ-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (μ-FTIR), Raman microscopy, μ-Energy Dispersive X-ray fluorescence (μ-EDXRF), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The analyzed ochres were found to be a mixture of several components: iron oxides and hydroxides in matrixes with kaolinite, gypsum and chalk. The results obtained allowed to identify and characterize the ochres according to their matrix and chromophores. The main chromophores where identified by Raman microscopy as being hematite, goethite and magnetite. The infrared analysis of the ochre samples allowed to divide them into groups, according to the composition of the matrix. It was possible to separate ochres containing kaolinite matrix and/or sulfate matrix from ochres where only iron oxides and/or hydroxides were detected. μ-EDXRF and Raman were the best techniques to identify umber, since the presence of elements such as manganese is characteristic of these pigments. μ-EDXRF also revealed the presence of significant amounts of arsenic in all Sienna tube paints.

Principles, performance, and applications of spectral reconstitution (SR) in quantitative analysis of oils by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR).

PubMed

García-González, Diego L; Sedman, Jacqueline; van de Voort, Frederik R

2013-04-01

Spectral reconstitution (SR) is a dilution technique developed to facilitate the rapid, automated, and quantitative analysis of viscous oil samples by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). This technique involves determining the dilution factor through measurement of an absorption band of a suitable spectral marker added to the diluent, and then spectrally removing the diluent from the sample and multiplying the resulting spectrum to compensate for the effect of dilution on the band intensities. The facsimile spectrum of the neat oil thus obtained can then be qualitatively or quantitatively analyzed for the parameter(s) of interest. The quantitative performance of the SR technique was examined with two transition-metal carbonyl complexes as spectral markers, chromium hexacarbonyl and methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl. The estimation of the volume fraction (VF) of the diluent in a model system, consisting of canola oil diluted to various extents with odorless mineral spirits, served as the basis for assessment of these markers. The relationship between the VF estimates and the true volume fraction (VF(t)) was found to be strongly dependent on the dilution ratio and also depended, to a lesser extent, on the spectral resolution. These dependences are attributable to the effect of changes in matrix polarity on the bandwidth of the ν(CO) marker bands. Excellent VF(t) estimates were obtained by making a polarity correction devised with a variance-spectrum-delineated correction equation. In the absence of such a correction, SR was shown to introduce only a minor and constant bias, provided that polarity differences among all the diluted samples analyzed were minimal. This bias can be built into the calibration of a quantitative FT-IR analytical method by subjecting appropriate calibration standards to the same SR procedure as the samples to be analyzed. The primary purpose of the SR technique is to simplify preparation of diluted samples such that only approximate proportions need to be adhered to, rather than using exact weights or volumes, the marker accounting for minor variations. Additional applications discussed include the use of the SR technique in extraction-based, quantitative, automated FT-IR methods for the determination of moisture, acid number, and base number in lubricating oils, as well as of moisture content in edible oils.

Agglutination of intravenously administered phosphatidylcholine-containing lipid emulsions with serum C-reactive protein.

PubMed

Tugirimana, Pierrot; Speeckaert, Marijn M; Fiers, Tom; De Buyzere, Marc L; Kint, Jos; Benoit, Dominique; Delanghe, Joris R

2013-04-01

C-reactive protein (CRP) is able to bind phospholipids in the presence of calcium. We wanted to investigate the reaction of CRP with various commercial fat emulsions and to explore the impact of CRP agglutination on serum CRP levels. Serum specimens were mixed with Intralipid 20% (soybean oil-based fat emulsion), Structolipid (structured oil-based fat emulsion), Omegaven (fish oil-based fat emulsion), or SMOFlipid (mixed soybean oil-, olive oil-, and fish oil-based emulsion) in Tris-calcium buffer (pH 7.5). After 30 minutes of incubation at 37°C, CRP-phospholipid complexes were turbidimetrically quantified and flow cytometric analysis was performed. Similarly, CRP complexes were monitored in vivo, following administration of fat emulsion. CRP was able to agglutinate phospholipid-containing lipid droplets present in the soybean oil-based fat emulsion and the structured oil-based fat emulsion. To a lesser extent, agglutination was observed for fish oil-containing fat emulsions, whereas no agglutination was noticed for the mixed soybean oil-, olive oil-, and fish oil-based emulsion. Results for propofol-containing emulsions were comparable. Agglutination correlated with phospholipid content of the emulsions. When in vivo agglutination occurred, plasma CRP values dropped due to consumption of CRP by phospholipid-induced agglutination. In this in vitro experiment, we demonstrated agglutination of CRP with phospholipids in various fat emulsions. Research studies are required in patients to determine which effects occur with various intravenous fat emulsions.

Electrothermal atomisation atomic absorption conditions and matrix modifications for determining antimony, arsenic, bismuth, cadmium, gallium, gold, indium, lead, molybdenum, palladium, platinum, selenium, silver, tellurium, thallium and tin following back-extraction of organic aminohalide extracts

USGS Publications Warehouse

Clark, J.R.

1986-01-01

A multi-element organic-extraction and back-extraction procedure, that had been developed previously to eliminate matrix interferences in the determination of a large number of trace elements in complex materials such as geological samples, produced organic and aqueous solutions that were complex. Electrothermal atomisation atomic absorption conditions and matrix modifications have been developed for 13 of the extracted elements (Ag, As, Au, Bi, Cd, Ga, In, Pb, Sb, Se, Sn, Te and Tl) that enhance sensitivity, alleviate problems resulting from the complex solutions and produce acceptable precision. Platinum, Pd and Mo can be determined without matrix modification directly on the original unstripped extracts.

The Thin Oil Film Equation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, James L.; Naughton, Jonathan W.

1999-01-01

A thin film of oil on a surface responds primarily to the wall shear stress generated on that surface by a three-dimensional flow. The oil film is also subject to wall pressure gradients, surface tension effects and gravity. The partial differential equation governing the oil film flow is shown to be related to Burgers' equation. Analytical and numerical methods for solving the thin oil film equation are presented. A direct numerical solver is developed where the wall shear stress variation on the surface is known and which solves for the oil film thickness spatial and time variation on the surface. An inverse numerical solver is also developed where the oil film thickness spatial variation over the surface at two discrete times is known and which solves for the wall shear stress variation over the test surface. A One-Time-Level inverse solver is also demonstrated. The inverse numerical solver provides a mathematically rigorous basis for an improved form of a wall shear stress instrument suitable for application to complex three-dimensional flows. To demonstrate the complexity of flows for which these oil film methods are now suitable, extensive examination is accomplished for these analytical and numerical methods as applied to a thin oil film in the vicinity of a three-dimensional saddle of separation.

Detergentless ultrasound-assisted extraction of trace elements from edible oils using lipase as an extractant.

PubMed

Kara, Derya; Fisher, Andrew; Hill, Steve

2015-11-01

A new method for the extraction and preconcentration of trace elements (Al, Ba, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Ti, V and Zn) from edible oils by producing detergentless micro-emulsions via an ultrasound-assisted extraction using a water phase containing Lipase at pH 3 as an extractant was developed. The trace elements in the water phase post-extraction were determined against matrix matched standards using ICP-MS. In the first step of the work, the parameters that affect extraction, such as pH, the volume of 1% lipase in the water phase and the ultrasonic and centrifugation times were optimized. Under the optimal conditions, the detection limits (µg kg(-1)) were 0.46, 0.03, 0.007, 0.028, 0.67, 0.038, 0.022, 0.14, 0.17, 0.05 and 0.07 for Al, Ba, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Ti, V and Zn respectively for edible oils (3 Sb/m). A certified reference material (EnviroMAT HU-1 Used oil) was analysed to check the accuracy of the developed method. Results obtained were in agreement with certified values with a t-test showing that no significant differences at the 95% confidence levels were found. The proposed method was applied to different edible oils such as sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, olive oil and salmon oil. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Poly-MVA attenuates 7,12- dimethylbenz[a]anthracene initiated and croton oil promoted skin papilloma formation on mice skin.

PubMed

Veena, Ravindran K; Ajith, Thekkuttuparambil A; Janardhanan, Kainoor K; Antonawich, Francis

2017-09-01

Chemopreventive agents which exhibit activities such as anti-inflammation, inhibition of carcinogen induced mutagenesis and scavenging of free radical might play a decisive role in the inhibition of chemical carcinogenesis either at the initiation or promotion stage. Many synthesized palladium (Pd) complexes tested experimentally for antitumor activity are found effective. Poly-MVA is a liquid blend preparation containing B complex vitamins, ruthenium with Pd complexed with alpha lipoic acid as the major ingredients. The antitumor effect of Poly-MVA was evaluated against 7,12-dimethylbenz[a] anthracene-initiated croton oil-promoted papilloma formation on mice skin. Skin tumor was initiated with a single application of 390 nmol of DMBA in 20 µl acetone. The effect of Poly-MVA against croton oil- induced inflammation and lipid peroxidation on the mice skin was also evaluated. Topical application of Poly-MVA (100 µl, twice weekly for 18 weeks) 30 minutes prior to each croton oil application, significantly decreased the tumor incidence (11%) and the average number of tumor per animals. Application of Poly-MVA (100 µl) before croton oil significantly (p &#60; 0.05) protected the mouse skin from inflammation (36%) and lipid peroxidation (14%) when compared to the croton oil alone treated group. Experimental results indicate that Poly-MVA attenuate the tumor promoting effects of croton oil and the effect may probably be due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.

Viscoplastic Matrix Materials for Embedded 3D Printing.

PubMed

Grosskopf, Abigail K; Truby, Ryan L; Kim, Hyoungsoo; Perazzo, Antonio; Lewis, Jennifer A; Stone, Howard A

2018-03-16

Embedded three-dimensional (EMB3D) printing is an emerging technique that enables free-form fabrication of complex architectures. In this approach, a nozzle is translated omnidirectionally within a soft matrix that surrounds and supports the patterned material. To optimize print fidelity, we have investigated the effects of matrix viscoplasticity on the EMB3D printing process. Specifically, we determine how matrix composition, print path and speed, and nozzle diameter affect the yielded region within the matrix. By characterizing the velocity and strain fields and analyzing the dimensions of the yielded regions, we determine that scaling relationships based on the Oldroyd number, Od, exist between these dimensions and the rheological properties of the matrix materials and printing parameters. Finally, we use EMB3D printing to create complex architectures within an elastomeric silicone matrix. Our methods and findings will both facilitate future characterization of viscoplastic matrices and motivate the development of new materials for EMB3D printing.

Modeling and simulation of multiphase multicomponent multiphysics porous media flows in the context of chemical enhanced oil recovery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dutta, Sourav; Daripa, Prabir; Fluids Team

2015-11-01

One of the most important methods of chemical enhanced oil recovery (EOR) involves the use of complex flooding schemes comprising of various layers of fluids mixed with suitable amounts of polymer or surfactant or both. The fluid flow is characterized by the spontaneous formation of complex viscous fingering patterns which is considered detrimental to oil recovery. Here we numerically study the physics of such EOR processes using a modern, hybrid method based on a combination of a discontinuous, multiscale finite element formulation and the method of characteristics. We investigate the effect of different types of heterogeneity on the fingering mechanism of these complex multiphase flows and determine the impact on oil recovery. We also study the effect of surfactants on the dynamics of the flow via reduction of capillary forces and increase in relative permeabilities. Supported by the grant NPRP 08-777-1-141 from the Qatar National Research Fund (a member of The Qatar Foundation).

Coherent to incoherent transition of precipitates during rupture test in TP347H austenitic stainless steels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hong, Chang-Whan; Heo, Yoon-Uk, E-mail: yunuk01@postech.ac.kr; Heo, Nam-Hoe

2016-05-15

Precipitation of various particles and their growth during rupture test have been investigated in TP347H austenitic stainless steels using a transmission electron microscopy. Various precipitates of MnS, Nb-rich MC, and MnS + MC and MnS + M{sub 2}P complexes are observed in the γ matrix after rupture test at 750 °C. The MnS particles formed independently in the γ matrix show a coherency or semi-coherency with the γ matrix. The Nb-rich MC carbides show also a coherency with the γ matrix. The Nb-rich MC carbides showing a semi-coherency with the MnS also form on the surface of the coherent ormore » semi-coherent MnS particles, and they show a cube-cube orientation relationship with the MnS particles. The MnS + MC complex loses the initial coherency with the γ matrix, as the MC in the complex grows. The Nb-rich M{sub 2}P precipitates formed on the surface of the MnS particles do not show an orientation relationship with the MnS particles or the γ matrix. The MnS particles in the MnS + M{sub 2}P complex hold the initial coherency with the γ matrix. Effects of MnS precipitation followed by the formation of the complexes on rupture life of the TP347H austenitic stainless steels are discussed from the viewpoint of MnS precipitates acting as sinks of free sulfur segregating to the grain boundaries. - Highlights: • Coherent to incoherent transition of precipitates during rupture test in TP347H steels is clarified. • MnS precipitation actively retards the time to intergranular fracture. • Effect of the coherency of secondary precipitates on the coherency loss of the complex particle is compared.« less

Toxicity of methylmercury injected into eggs when dissolved in water versus corn oil

USGS Publications Warehouse

Heinz, G.H.; Hoffman, D.J.; Klimstra, J.D.; Stebbins, K.R.; Kondrad, S.L.

2011-01-01

In a previous study, the embryotoxicity of methylmercury dissolved in corn oil was compared among 26 species of birds. Corn oil is not soluble in the water-based matrix that constitutes the albumen of an egg. To determine whether the use of corn oil limited the usefulness of this earlier study, a comparison was made of the embryotoxicity of methylmercury dissolved in corn oil versus water. Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and chicken (Gallus gallus) eggs were injected with methylmercury chloride dissolved in corn oil or water to achieve concentrations of 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, and 1.6??g/g mercury in the egg on a wet weight basis. Hatching success at each dose of mercury was compared between the two solvents. For mallards, 16.4% of the eggs injected with 1.6??g/g mercury dissolved in water hatched, which was statistically lower than the 37.6% hatch rate of eggs injected with 1.6??g/g mercury dissolved in corn oil, but no differences in hatching success were observed between corn oil and water at any of the other doses. With chicken eggs, no significant differences occurred in percentage hatch of eggs between corn oil and water at any of the mercury doses. Methylmercury dissolved in corn oil seems to have a toxicity to avian embryos similar to that of does methylmercury dissolved in water. Consequently, the results from the earlier study that described the toxicity of methylmercury dissolved in corn oil to avian embryos were probably not compromised by the use of corn oil as a solvent. ?? 2011 SETAC.

Mass spectrometric characterization of naphthenic acids in environmental samples: a review.

PubMed

Headley, John V; Peru, Kerry M; Barrow, Mark P

2009-01-01

There is a growing need to develop mass spectrometric methods for the characterization of oil sands naphthenic acids (structural formulae described by C(n)H(2n+z)O(2) where n is the number of carbon atoms and "z" is referred to as the "hydrogen deficiency" and is equal to zero, or is a negative, even integer) present in environmental samples. This interest stems from the need to better understand their contribution to the total acid number of oil sands acids; along with assessing their toxicity in aquatic environments. Negative-ion electrospray ionization has emerged as the analytical technique of choice. For infusion samples, matrix effects are particularly evident for quantification in the presence of salts and co-elutants. However, such effects can be minimized for methods that employ chromatographic separation prior to mass spectrometry (MS) detection. There have been several advances for accurate identification of classes of naphthenic acid components that employ a range of MS hyphenated techniques. General trends measured for degradation of the NAs in the environment appear to be similar to those obtained with either low- or high-resolution MS. Future MS research will likely focus on (i) development of more reliable quantitative methods that use chromatography and internal standards, (ii) the utility of representative model naphthenic acids as surrogates for the complex NA mixtures, and (iii) development of congener-specific analysis of the principal toxic components.

Analysis of crude oil markets with improved multiscale weighted permutation entropy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niu, Hongli; Wang, Jun; Liu, Cheng

2018-03-01

Entropy measures are recently extensively used to study the complexity property in nonlinear systems. Weighted permutation entropy (WPE) can overcome the ignorance of the amplitude information of time series compared with PE and shows a distinctive ability to extract complexity information from data having abrupt changes in magnitude. Improved (or sometimes called composite) multi-scale (MS) method possesses the advantage of reducing errors and improving the accuracy when applied to evaluate multiscale entropy values of not enough long time series. In this paper, we combine the merits of WPE and improved MS to propose the improved multiscale weighted permutation entropy (IMWPE) method for complexity investigation of a time series. Then it is validated effective through artificial data: white noise and 1 / f noise, and real market data of Brent and Daqing crude oil. Meanwhile, the complexity properties of crude oil markets are explored respectively of return series, volatility series with multiple exponents and EEMD-produced intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) which represent different frequency components of return series. Moreover, the instantaneous amplitude and frequency of Brent and Daqing crude oil are analyzed by the Hilbert transform utilized to each IMF.

Complex formation of blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) anthocyanins during freeze-drying and its influence on their biological activity.

PubMed

Correa-Betanzo, Julieta; Padmanabhan, Priya; Corredig, Milena; Subramanian, Jayasankar; Paliyath, Gopinadhan

2015-03-25

Biological activity of polyphenols is influenced by their uptake and is highly influenced by their interactions with the food matrix. This study evaluated the complex formation of blueberry polyphenols with fruit matrixes such as pectin and cellulose and their effect on the biological and antiproliferative properties of human colon cell lines HT-29 and CRL 1790. Free or complexed polyphenols were isolated by dialyzing aqueous or methanolic blueberry homogenates. Seven phenolic compounds and thirteen anthocyanins were identified in blueberry extracts. Blueberry extracts showed varying degrees of antioxidant and antiproliferative activities, as well as α-glucosidase activity. Fruit matrix containing cellulose and pectin, or purified polygalacturonic acid and cellulose, did not retain polyphenols and showed very low antioxidant or antiproliferative activities. These findings suggest that interactions between polyphenols and the food matrix may be more complex than a simple association and may play an important role in the bioefficacy of blueberry polyphenols.

Efficiently computing and deriving topological relation matrices between complex regions with broad boundaries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Shihong; Guo, Luo; Wang, Qiao; Qin, Qimin

The extended 9-intersection matrix is used to formalize topological relations between uncertain regions while it is designed to satisfy the requirements at a concept level, and to deal with the complex regions with broad boundaries (CBBRs) as a whole without considering their hierarchical structures. In contrast to simple regions with broad boundaries, CBBRs have complex hierarchical structures. Therefore, it is necessary to take into account the complex hierarchical structure and to represent the topological relations between all regions in CBBRs as a relation matrix, rather than using the extended 9-intersection matrix to determine topological relations. In this study, a tree model is first used to represent the intrinsic configuration of CBBRs hierarchically. Then, the reasoning tables are presented for deriving topological relations between child, parent and sibling regions from the relations between two given regions in CBBRs. Finally, based on the reasoning, efficient methods are proposed to compute and derive the topological relation matrix. The proposed methods can be incorporated into spatial databases to facilitate geometric-oriented applications.

Recurrence quantity analysis based on matrix eigenvalues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Pengbo; Shang, Pengjian

2018-06-01

Recurrence plots is a powerful tool for visualization and analysis of dynamical systems. Recurrence quantification analysis (RQA), based on point density and diagonal and vertical line structures in the recurrence plots, is considered to be alternative measures to quantify the complexity of dynamical systems. In this paper, we present a new measure based on recurrence matrix to quantify the dynamical properties of a given system. Matrix eigenvalues can reflect the basic characteristics of the complex systems, so we show the properties of the system by exploring the eigenvalues of the recurrence matrix. Considering that Shannon entropy has been defined as a complexity measure, we propose the definition of entropy of matrix eigenvalues (EOME) as a new RQA measure. We confirm that EOME can be used as a metric to quantify the behavior changes of the system. As a given dynamical system changes from a non-chaotic to a chaotic regime, the EOME will increase as well. The bigger EOME values imply higher complexity and lower predictability. We also study the effect of some factors on EOME,including data length, recurrence threshold, the embedding dimension, and additional noise. Finally, we demonstrate an application in physiology. The advantage of this measure lies in a high sensitivity and simple computation.

A major protein component of the Bacillus subtilis biofilm matrix.

PubMed

Branda, Steven S; Chu, Frances; Kearns, Daniel B; Losick, Richard; Kolter, Roberto

2006-02-01

Microbes construct structurally complex multicellular communities (biofilms) through production of an extracellular matrix. Here we present evidence from scanning electron microscopy showing that a wild strain of the Gram positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis builds such a matrix. Genetic, biochemical and cytological evidence indicates that the matrix is composed predominantly of a protein component, TasA, and an exopolysaccharide component. The absence of TasA or the exopolysaccharide resulted in a residual matrix, while the absence of both components led to complete failure to form complex multicellular communities. Extracellular complementation experiments revealed that a functional matrix can be assembled even when TasA and the exopolysaccharide are produced by different cells, reinforcing the view that the components contribute to matrix formation in an extracellular manner. Having defined the major components of the biofilm matrix and the control of their synthesis by the global regulator SinR, we present a working model for how B. subtilis switches between nomadic and sedentary lifestyles.

CHARACTERISTICS OF SPILLED OILS, FUELS, AND PETROLEUM PRODUCTS: 1. COMPOSITION AND PROPERTIES OF SELECTED OILS

EPA Science Inventory

Multicomponent composition and corresponding physical properties data of crude oils and petroleum products are needed as input to environmental fate simulations. Complete sets of such data, however, are not available in the literature due to the complexity and expense of making t...

How reactive fluids alter fracture walls and affect shale-matrix accessibility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fitts, J. P.; Deng, H.; Peters, C. A.

2014-12-01

Predictions of mass transfer across fracture boundaries and fluid flow in fracture networks provide fundamental inputs into risk and life cycle assessments of geologic energy technologies including oil and gas extraction, geothermal energy systems and geologic CO2 storage. However, major knowledge gaps exist due to the lack of experimental observations of how reactive fluids alter the pore structures and accessible surface area within fracture boundaries that control the mass transfer of organics, metals and salts, and influence fluid flow within the fracture. To investigate the fracture and rock matrix properties governing fracture boundary alteration, we developed a new flow-through cell that enables time-dependent 2D x-ray imaging of mineral dissolution and/or precipitation at a fracture surface. The parallel plate design provides an idealized fracture geometry to investigate the relationship between flow rate, reaction rate, and mineral spatial heterogeneity and variation. In the flow-cell, a carbonate-rich sample of Eagle Ford shale was reacted with acidified brine. The extent and rate of mineral dissolution were correlated with calcite abundance relative to less soluble silicate minerals. Three-dimensional x-ray tomography of the reacted fracture wall shows how calcite dissolution left behind a porous network of silicate minerals. And while this silicate network essentially preserved the location of the initial fracture wall, the pore network structures within the fracture boundary were dramatically altered, such that the accessible surface area of matrix components increased significantly. In a second set of experiments with a limestone specimen, however, the extent of dissolution and retreat of the fracture wall was not strictly correlated with the occurrence of calcite. Instead, the pattern and extent of dissolution suggested secondary causes such as calcite morphology, the presence of argillaceous minerals and other diagenetic features. Our experiments show that while calcite dissolution is the primary geochemical driver of fracture wall alterations, hydrodynamic properties and matrix accessibility within fracture boundaries evolve based on a complex relationship between mineral spatial heterogeneity and variation, fluid chemistry and flow rate.

Matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry in the subunit stoichiometry study of high-mass non-covalent complexes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moniatte, M.; Lesieur, C.; Vecsey-Semjen, B.; Buckley, J. T.; Pattus, F.; van der Goot, F. G.; van Dorsselaer, A.

1997-12-01

This study explores the potential of MALDI-TOF MS for the mass measurement of large non-covalent protein complexes. The following non-covalent complexes have been investigated: aerolysin from Aeromonas hydrophila (335 kDa) and [alpha]-haemolysin from Staphylococcus aureus (233 kDa) which are both cytolytic toxins, three enzymes known to be homotetramers in solution: bovine liver catalase (235 kDa), rabbit muscle pyruvate kinase (232 kDa), yeast alcohol dehydrogenase (147 kDa) and finally a lectin, concanavalin A (102 kDa). Three different matrix preparations were systematically tested under various conditions: ferulic acid dissolved in THF, 2,6-dihydroxyacetophenone in 20 mM aqueous ammonium citrate and a two-step sample preparation with sinapinic acid. It was possible to find a suitable combination of matrix and preparation type which allowed the molecularity of all complexes tested to be deduced from the MALDI mass spectrum. Trimeric and tetrameric intermediates accumulating during the formation of the active heptameric aerolysin complex were also identified, this allowing a formation mechanism to be proposed. The observation of large specific non-covalent complexes has been found to be dependent on the choice of matrix, the type of sample preparation used, the solvent evaporation speed, the pH of the resulting matrix-sample mixture and the number of shots acquired on a given area. From this set of experiments, some useful guidelines for the observation of large complexes by MALDI could therefore be deduced. Fast evaporation of the solvent is particularly necessary in the case of pH sensitive complexes. An ESMS study on the same non-covalent complexes indicated that, rather surprisingly, reliable results could be obtained by MALDI-TOF MS on several very large complexes (above 200 kDa) for which ESMS yielded no clear spectra.

Release from or through a wax matrix system. IV. Generalized expression of the release process for a reservoir device tablet.

PubMed

Yonezawa, Yorinobu; Ishida, Sumio; Suzuki, Shinobu; Sunada, Hisakazu

2002-09-01

Generalization of the release process through the wax matrix layer was examined by use of a reservoir device tablet. The wax matrix layer of the reservoir device tablet was prepared from a physical mixture of lactose and hydrogenated castor oil to simplify the release properties. Release through the wax matrix layer showed zero-order kinetics in a steady state after a given lag time, and could be divided into two stages. The first stage was the formation process of water channel by dissolving the soluble component in the wax matrix layer. The lag time obtained by applying the square root law equation was well connected with the amount of the matrix layer and mixed weight ratio of components in this layer. The second stage was the zero-order release process of drug in the reservoir through the wax matrix layer, because the effective surface area was fixed. The release rate constants were connected with thickness of the matrix layer and permeability coefficient, and the permeability coefficients were connected with the diffusion coefficient of drug and porosity. Hence the release rate constant could be connected with the amount of matrix layer and the mixed weight ratio of components in the matrix layer. It was therefore suggested that the release process could be generalized using the amount of matrix layer and the mixed weight ratio of components in the matrix layer.

Power plant fuel switching and air quality in a tropical, forested environment

DOE PAGES

Medeiros, Adan S. S.; Calderaro, Gisele; Guimarães, Patricia C.; ...

2017-07-26

How a changing energy matrix for electricity production affects air quality is considered for an urban region in a tropical, forested environment. Manaus, the largest city in the central Amazon Basin of Brazil, is in the process of changing its energy matrix for electricity production from fuel oil and diesel to natural gas over an approximately 10-year period, with a minor contribution by hydropower. Three scenarios of urban air quality, specifically afternoon ozone concentrations, were simulated using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-Chem) model. The first scenario used fuel oil and diesel for electricity production, which was the reality inmore » 2008. The second scenario was based on the fuel mix from 2014, the most current year for which data were available. The third scenario considered nearly complete use of natural gas for electricity production, which is the anticipated future, possibly for 2018. For each case, inventories of anthropogenic emissions were based on electricity generation, refinery operations, and transportation. Transportation and refinery operations were held constant across the three scenarios to focus on effects of power plant fuel switching in a tropical context. The simulated NO x and CO emissions for the urban region decrease by 89 and 55 %, respectively, after the complete change in the energy matrix. The results of the simulations indicate that a change to natural gas significantly decreases maximum afternoon ozone concentrations over the population center, reducing ozone by >70 % for the most polluted days. The sensitivity of ozone concentrations to the fuel switchover is consistent with a NO x-limited regime, as expected for a tropical forest having high emissions of biogenic volatile organic compounds, high water vapor concentrations, and abundant solar radiation. There are key differences in a shifting energy matrix in a tropical, forested environment compared to other world environments. Therefore, policies favoring the burning of natural gas in place of fuel oil and diesel have great potential for ozone reduction and improved air quality for growing urban regions located in tropical, forested environments around the world.« less

Power plant fuel switching and air quality in a tropical, forested environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Medeiros, Adan S. S.; Calderaro, Gisele; Guimarães, Patricia C.; Magalhaes, Mateus R.; Morais, Marcos V. B.; Rafee, Sameh A. A.; Ribeiro, Igor O.; Andreoli, Rita V.; Martins, Jorge A.; Martins, Leila D.; Martin, Scot T.; Souza, Rodrigo A. F.

2017-07-01

How a changing energy matrix for electricity production affects air quality is considered for an urban region in a tropical, forested environment. Manaus, the largest city in the central Amazon Basin of Brazil, is in the process of changing its energy matrix for electricity production from fuel oil and diesel to natural gas over an approximately 10-year period, with a minor contribution by hydropower. Three scenarios of urban air quality, specifically afternoon ozone concentrations, were simulated using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-Chem) model. The first scenario used fuel oil and diesel for electricity production, which was the reality in 2008. The second scenario was based on the fuel mix from 2014, the most current year for which data were available. The third scenario considered nearly complete use of natural gas for electricity production, which is the anticipated future, possibly for 2018. For each case, inventories of anthropogenic emissions were based on electricity generation, refinery operations, and transportation. Transportation and refinery operations were held constant across the three scenarios to focus on effects of power plant fuel switching in a tropical context. The simulated NOx and CO emissions for the urban region decrease by 89 and 55 %, respectively, after the complete change in the energy matrix. The results of the simulations indicate that a change to natural gas significantly decreases maximum afternoon ozone concentrations over the population center, reducing ozone by > 70 % for the most polluted days. The sensitivity of ozone concentrations to the fuel switchover is consistent with a NOx-limited regime, as expected for a tropical forest having high emissions of biogenic volatile organic compounds, high water vapor concentrations, and abundant solar radiation. There are key differences in a shifting energy matrix in a tropical, forested environment compared to other world environments. Policies favoring the burning of natural gas in place of fuel oil and diesel have great potential for ozone reduction and improved air quality for growing urban regions located in tropical, forested environments around the world.

Power plant fuel switching and air quality in a tropical, forested environment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Medeiros, Adan S. S.; Calderaro, Gisele; Guimarães, Patricia C.

How a changing energy matrix for electricity production affects air quality is considered for an urban region in a tropical, forested environment. Manaus, the largest city in the central Amazon Basin of Brazil, is in the process of changing its energy matrix for electricity production from fuel oil and diesel to natural gas over an approximately 10-year period, with a minor contribution by hydropower. Three scenarios of urban air quality, specifically afternoon ozone concentrations, were simulated using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-Chem) model. The first scenario used fuel oil and diesel for electricity production, which was the reality inmore » 2008. The second scenario was based on the fuel mix from 2014, the most current year for which data were available. The third scenario considered nearly complete use of natural gas for electricity production, which is the anticipated future, possibly for 2018. For each case, inventories of anthropogenic emissions were based on electricity generation, refinery operations, and transportation. Transportation and refinery operations were held constant across the three scenarios to focus on effects of power plant fuel switching in a tropical context. The simulated NO x and CO emissions for the urban region decrease by 89 and 55 %, respectively, after the complete change in the energy matrix. The results of the simulations indicate that a change to natural gas significantly decreases maximum afternoon ozone concentrations over the population center, reducing ozone by >70 % for the most polluted days. The sensitivity of ozone concentrations to the fuel switchover is consistent with a NO x-limited regime, as expected for a tropical forest having high emissions of biogenic volatile organic compounds, high water vapor concentrations, and abundant solar radiation. There are key differences in a shifting energy matrix in a tropical, forested environment compared to other world environments. Therefore, policies favoring the burning of natural gas in place of fuel oil and diesel have great potential for ozone reduction and improved air quality for growing urban regions located in tropical, forested environments around the world.« less

Development and characterization of biodegradable chitosan films containing two essential oils.

PubMed

Shen, Zhu; Kamdem, Donatien Pascal

2015-03-01

Active biodegradable films from chitosan containing 10% to 30% w/w of citronella essential oil (CEO) and cedarwood oil (CWO) were developed by casting and solvent-evaporation method, and their physical, mechanical and thermal properties were investigated. Possible interactions between the chitosan chains and the essential oils were confirmed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Various amounts of CEO or CWO had significant effects on the films' mechanical properties, with the exception of 10% of CEO, which did not significantly affect the tensile strength of the films. The incorporation of the two tested oils provoked a remarkable reduction in the water-vapor permeability properties, with a decrease of about 63% when 30% CEO was added in chitosan films. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that degradation temperatures of the films containing CEO and CWO improved only slightly in comparison to control films without essential oils. FTIR spectra analysis provided some insights on the possible interactions between chitosan and the two essential oils used. This study suggests that active films can be developed by including CEO and CWO in a chitosan matrix. Such films can provide new formulation options for packaging industries in developing active packaging with potential food-technology applications. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Oil-soluble and water-soluble BTPhens and their europium complexes in octanol/water solutions: interface crossing studied by MD and PMF simulations.

PubMed

Benay, G; Wipff, G

2013-01-31

Bistriazinyl-phenantroline "BTPhen" ligands L display the remarkable feature to complex trivalent lanthanide and actinide ions, with a marked selectivity for the latter. We report on molecular dynamics studies of tetrasubstituted X(4)BTPhens: L(4+) (X = (+)Et(3)NCH(2)-), L(4-) (X = (-)SO(3)Ph-), and L(0) (X = CyMe(4)) and their complexes with Eu(III) in binary octanol/water solutions. Changes in free energies upon interface crossing are also calculated for typical solutes by potential of mean force PMF simulations. The ligands and their complexes partition, as expected, to either the aqueous or the oil phase, depending on the "solubilizing" group X. Furthermore, most of them are found to be surface active. The water-soluble L(4+) and L(4-) ligands and their (L)Eu(NO(3))(3) complexes adsorb at the aqueous side of the interface, more with L(4-) than with L(4+). The oil soluble ligand L(0) is not surface active in its endo-endo form but adsorbs on the oil side of the interface in its most polar endo-exo form, as well as in its protonated L(0)H(+) and complexed (L(0))Eu(NO(3))(3) states. Furthermore, comparing PMFs of the Eu(III) complexes with and without nitric acid shows that acidifying the aqueous phase has different effects, depending on the ligand charge. In particular, acid promotes the Eu(III) extraction by L(0) via the (L(0))(2)Eu(NO(3))(2+) complex, as observed experimentally. Overall, the results point to the importance of interfacial adsorption for the liquid-liquid extraction of trivalent lanthanide and actinide cations by BTPhens and analogues.

Bionanocomposites produced from cassava starch and oil palm mesocarp cellulose nanowhiskers.

PubMed

Campos, Adriana de; Sena Neto, Alfredo R de; Rodrigues, Vanessa B; Luchesi, Bruno R; Moreira, Francys K V; Correa, Ana Carolina; Mattoso, Luiz H C; Marconcini, José M

2017-11-01

Cassava starch films reinforced with cellulose nanowhiskers from oil palm mesocarp fibers were produced by casting. Nanowhiskers were obtained by sulphuric acid hydrolysis followed by microfluidization and incorporated in starch films at various loadings (1-10wt%). Morphological and mechanical characterizations showed that the reinforcing effect of oil palm cellulose nanowhiskers was significant at loadings of up to 6wt%, which was determined to be the nanowhiskers percolation threshold. Above this content, formation of agglomerates became more significant, causing a decrease in mechanical properties of starch bionanocomposites. Below percolation threshold, such as 2wt%, elongation at break increased by 70%, showing an effective reinforcing effect. Dynamic mechanical analyses revealed filler/matrix interactions through hydrogen bonding in bionanocomposites. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Application of a 1,1,3,3-tetramethylguanidine (TMG)/MeOH-CO2 in situ derivatization procedure for the gas chromatographic characterization of the fatty acid profile in olive oil.

PubMed

Saliu, F; Anzano, M; Franzetti, A

2015-03-01

1,1,3,3-Tetramethylguanidine (TMG), methanol and carbon dioxide were investigated as switchable polarity solvents (SPS) in the simultaneous derivatization and extraction of triacylglycerols for the gas chromatographic (GC) characterization of olive oil. Three commercial olive oils were used as test samples. Results of the developed method did not differ statistically from those provided by reference derivatization procedures. The transesterification reaction was carried out under a very mild condition, one step and in situ, and no particular matrix interferences were evidenced. The method represented the first example of the use of a switchable polarity mixture for the preparation of methyl ester derivatives of fatty acids (FAME).

Preparation and application of in-fibre internal standardization solid-phase microextraction.

PubMed

Zhao, Wennan; Ouyang, Gangfeng; Pawliszyn, Janusz

2007-03-01

The in-fibre standardization method is a novel approach that has been developed for field sampling/sample preparation, in which an internal standard is pre-loaded onto a solid-phase microextraction (SPME) fibre for calibration of the extraction of target analytes in field samples. The same method can also be used for in-vial sample analysis. In this study, different techniques to load the standard to a non-porous SPME fibre were investigated. It was found that the appropriateness of the technique depends on the physical properties of the standards that are used for the analysis. Headspace extraction of the standard dissolved in pumping oil works well for volatile compounds. Conversely, headspace extraction of the pure standard is an effective approach for semi-volatile compounds. For compounds with low volatility, a syringe-fibre transfer method and direct extraction of the standard dissolved in a solvent exhibited a good reproducibility (<5% RSD). The main advantage of the approaches investigated in this study is that the standard generation vials can be reused for hundreds of analyses without exhibiting significant loss. Moreover, most of the standard loading processes studied can be performed automatically, which is efficient and precise. Finally, the standard loading technique and in-fibre standardization method were applied to a complex matrix (milk) and the results illustrated that the matrix effect can be effectively compensated for with this approach.

Diagonalization of complex symmetric matrices: Generalized Householder reflections, iterative deflation and implicit shifts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noble, J. H.; Lubasch, M.; Stevens, J.; Jentschura, U. D.

2017-12-01

We describe a matrix diagonalization algorithm for complex symmetric (not Hermitian) matrices, A ̲ =A̲T, which is based on a two-step algorithm involving generalized Householder reflections based on the indefinite inner product 〈 u ̲ , v ̲ 〉 ∗ =∑iuivi. This inner product is linear in both arguments and avoids complex conjugation. The complex symmetric input matrix is transformed to tridiagonal form using generalized Householder transformations (first step). An iterative, generalized QL decomposition of the tridiagonal matrix employing an implicit shift converges toward diagonal form (second step). The QL algorithm employs iterative deflation techniques when a machine-precision zero is encountered "prematurely" on the super-/sub-diagonal. The algorithm allows for a reliable and computationally efficient computation of resonance and antiresonance energies which emerge from complex-scaled Hamiltonians, and for the numerical determination of the real energy eigenvalues of pseudo-Hermitian and PT-symmetric Hamilton matrices. Numerical reference values are provided.

Equiangular tight frames and unistochastic matrices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goyeneche, Dardo; Turek, Ondřej

2017-06-01

We demonstrate that a complex equiangular tight frame composed of N vectors in dimension d, denoted ETF (d, N), exists if and only if a certain bistochastic matrix, univocally determined by N and d, belongs to a special class of unistochastic matrices. This connection allows us to find new complex ETFs in infinitely many dimensions and to derive a method to introduce non-trivial free parameters in ETFs. We present an explicit six-parametric family of complex ETF(6,16), which defines a family of symmetric POVMs. Minimal and maximal possible average entanglement of the vectors within this qubit-qutrit family are described. Furthermore, we propose an efficient numerical procedure to compute the unitary matrix underlying a unistochastic matrix, which we apply to find all existing classes of complex ETFs containing up to 20 vectors.

Borehole geophysical data for the East Poplar oil field area, Fort Peck Indian Reservation, northeastern Montana, 1993, 2004, and 2005

USGS Publications Warehouse

Smith, Bruce D.; Thamke, Joanna N.; Tyrrell, Christa

2014-01-01

Areas of high electrical conductivity in shallow aquifers in the East Poplar oil field area were delineated by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes, in order to interpret areas of saline-water contamination. Ground, airborne, and borehole geophysical data were collected in the East Poplar oil field area from 1992 through 2005 as part of this delineation. This report presents borehole geophysical data for thirty-two wells that were collected during, 1993, 2004, and 2005 in the East Poplar oil field study area. Natural-gamma and induction instruments were used to provide information about the lithology and conductivity of the soil, rock, and water matrix adjacent to and within the wells. The well logs were also collected to provide subsurface controls for interpretation of a helicopter electromagnetic survey flown over most of the East Poplar oil field in 2004. The objective of the USGS studies was to improve understanding of aquifer hydrogeology particularly in regard to variations in water quality.

Optical properties of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) in surface and pore waters adjacent to an oil well in a southern California salt marsh.

PubMed

Bowen, Jennifer C; Clark, Catherine D; Keller, Jason K; De Bruyn, Warren J

2017-01-15

Chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) optical properties were measured in surface and pore waters as a function of depth and distance from an oil well in a southern California salt marsh. Higher fluorescence and absorbances in pore vs. surface waters suggest soil pore water is a reservoir of CDOM in the marsh. Protein-like fluorophores in pore waters at distinct depths corresponded to variations in sulfate depletion and Fe(II) concentrations from anaerobic microbial activity. These variations were supported by fluorescence indexes and are consistent with differences in optical molecular weight and aromaticity indicators. Fluorescence indices were consistent with autochthonous material of aquatic origin in surface waters, with more terrestrial, humified allochthonous material in deeper pore waters. CDOM optical properties were consistent with significantly enhanced microbial activity in regions closest to the oil well, along with a three-dimensional excitation/emission matrix fluorescence spectrum peak attributable to oil, suggesting anaerobic microbial degradation of oil. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A new methodology capable of characterizing most volatile and less volatile minor edible oils components in a single chromatographic run without solvents or reagents. Detection of new components.

PubMed

Alberdi-Cedeño, Jon; Ibargoitia, María L; Cristillo, Giovanna; Sopelana, Patricia; Guillén, María D

2017-04-15

The possibilities offered by a new methodology to determine minor components in edible oils are described. This is based on immersion of a solid-phase microextraction fiber of PDMS/DVB into the oil matrix, followed by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry. It enables characterization and differentiation of edible oils in a simple way, without either solvents or sample modification. This methodology allows simultaneous identification and quantification of sterols, tocols, hydrocarbons of different natures, fatty acids, esters, monoglycerides, fatty amides, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, epoxides, furans, pyrans and terpenic oxygenated derivatives. The broad information provided by this methodology is useful for different areas of interest such as nutritional value, oxidative stability, technological performance, quality, processing, safety and even the prevention of fraudulent practices. Furthermore, for the first time, certain fatty amides, gamma- and delta-lactones of high molecular weight, and other aromatic compounds such as some esters derived from cinnamic acid have been detected in edible oils. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Investigation of the physical properties, antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of ternary potato starch-furcellaran-gelatin films incorporated with lavender essential oil.

PubMed

Jamróz, Ewelina; Juszczak, Lesław; Kucharek, Mateusz

2018-07-15

Lavender essential oil (OEL) was added to starch, furcellaran and gelatin (S/F/G) films in concentrations of 2%, 4% and 6%. The films were examined in terms of physical properties (thickness, density, water solubility, water absorption and degree of swelling) and mechanical properties (tensile strength, elongation at break). The test results show that the film thickness increased upon addition of OEL. The solubility, water absorption and degree of swelling of the film decreased with increasing concentration of oils. Tensile strength (TS) decreased considerably with increasing concentration of oil, which resulted in lower mechanical strength. Parameters of elongation at break (EAB) were not changed. The thermal behaviour of the film was affected by OEL. Possible interaction between film matrix and lavender oil was confirmed using FTIR. Antioxidant properties proved to be significantly enhanced with increasing OEL concentration. The microbiological analysis confirmed antimicrobial properties of S/F/G with OEL. S/F/G films with OEL can provide new formulation of active packaging with potential food-technology applications. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Bio-Based Nano Composites from Plant Oil and Nano Clay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Jue; Hong, Chang K.; Wool, Richard P.

2003-03-01

We explored the combination of nanoclay with new chemically functionalized, amphiphilic, plant oil resins to form bio-based nanocomposites with improved physical and mechanical properties. These can be used in many new applications, including the development of self-healing nanocomposites through controlled reversible exfoliation/intercalation, and self-assembled nano-structures. Several chemically modified triglyceride monomers of varying polarity, combined with styrene (ca 30include acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO), maleated acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (MAESO) and soybean oil pentaerythritol glyceride maleates (SOPERMA), containing either hydroxyl group or acid functionality or both. The clay used is a natural montmorillonite modified with methyl tallow bis-2-hydroxyethyl quaternary ammonium chloride, which has hydroxyl groups. Both XRD and TEM showed a completely exfoliated structure at 3 wtwhen the clay content is above 5 wtconsidered a mix of intercalated and partially exfoliated structure. The controlled polarity of the monomer has a major effect on the reversible dispersion of clay in the polymer matrix. The bio-based nanocomposites showed a significant increase in flexural modulus and strength. Supported by EPA and DoE

Semi-Targeted Analysis of Complex Matrices by ESI FT-ICR MS or How an Experimental Bias may be Used as an Analytical Tool.

PubMed

Hertzog, Jasmine; Carré, Vincent; Dufour, Anthony; Aubriet, Frédéric

2018-03-01

Ammonia is well suited to favor deprotonation process in electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) to increase the formation of [M - H] - . Nevertheless, NH 3 may react with carbonyl compounds (aldehyde, ketone) and bias the composition description of the investigated sample. This is of significant importance in the study of complex mixture such as oil or bio-oil. To assess the ability of primary amines to form imines with carbonyl compounds during the ESI-MS process, two aldehydes (vanillin and cinnamaldehyde) and two ketones (butyrophenone and trihydroxyacetophenone) have been infused in an ESI source with ammonia and two different amines (aniline and 3-chloronaniline). The (+) ESI-MS analyses have demonstrated the formation of imine whatever the considered carbonyl compound and the used primary amine, the structure of which was extensively studied by tandem mass spectrometry. Thus, it has been established that the addition of ammonia, in the solution infused in an ESI source, may alter the composition description of a complex mixture and leads to misinterpretations due to the formation of imines. Nevertheless, this experimental bias can be used to identify the carbonyl compounds in a pyrolysis bio-oil. As we demonstrated, infusion of the bio-oil with 3-chloroaniline in ESI source leads to specifically derivatized carbonyl compounds. Thanks to their chlorine isotopic pattern and the high mass measurement accuracy, (+) ESI Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) unambiguously highlighted them from the numerous C x H y O z bio-oil components. These results offer a new perspective into the detailed molecular structure of complex mixtures such as bio-oils. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Semi-Targeted Analysis of Complex Matrices by ESI FT-ICR MS or How an Experimental Bias may be Used as an Analytical Tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hertzog, Jasmine; Carré, Vincent; Dufour, Anthony; Aubriet, Frédéric

2018-03-01

Ammonia is well suited to favor deprotonation process in electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) to increase the formation of [M - H]-. Nevertheless, NH3 may react with carbonyl compounds (aldehyde, ketone) and bias the composition description of the investigated sample. This is of significant importance in the study of complex mixture such as oil or bio-oil. To assess the ability of primary amines to form imines with carbonyl compounds during the ESI-MS process, two aldehydes (vanillin and cinnamaldehyde) and two ketones (butyrophenone and trihydroxyacetophenone) have been infused in an ESI source with ammonia and two different amines (aniline and 3-chloronaniline). The (+) ESI-MS analyses have demonstrated the formation of imine whatever the considered carbonyl compound and the used primary amine, the structure of which was extensively studied by tandem mass spectrometry. Thus, it has been established that the addition of ammonia, in the solution infused in an ESI source, may alter the composition description of a complex mixture and leads to misinterpretations due to the formation of imines. Nevertheless, this experimental bias can be used to identify the carbonyl compounds in a pyrolysis bio-oil. As we demonstrated, infusion of the bio-oil with 3-chloroaniline in ESI source leads to specifically derivatized carbonyl compounds. Thanks to their chlorine isotopic pattern and the high mass measurement accuracy, (+) ESI Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) unambiguously highlighted them from the numerous CxHyOz bio-oil components. These results offer a new perspective into the detailed molecular structure of complex mixtures such as bio-oils. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Plastic scintillators with high loading of one or more metal carboxylates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cherepy, Nerine; Sanner, Robert Dean

According to one embodiment, a method includes incorporating a metal carboxylate complex into a polymeric matrix to form an optically transparent material. According to another embodiment, a material includes at least one metal carboxylate complex incorporated into a polymeric matrix, where the material is optically transparent.

Determination of phytate in high molecular weight, charged organic matrices by two-dimensional size exclusion-ion chromatography

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A two-dimensional chromatography method for analyzing anionic targets (specifically phytate) in complex matrices is described. Prior to quantification by anion exchange chromatography, the sample matrix was prepared by size exclusion chromatography, which removed the majority of matrix complexities....

A New Type of Self-lubricated Thermal Spray Coatings: Liquid Lubricants Embedded in a Metal Matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Espallargas, N.; Armada, S.

2015-01-01

Oils and greases are commonly used for lubricating, rotating and sliding systems such as bearings, gears, connectors, etc. The maintenance of such lubricated systems in some applications where access is difficult (e.g., offshore wind farms and subsea equipment) increases the operational costs. In some cases, it can be thought that the use of solid lubricants (MoS2, PTFE, graphite, etc.) embedded in coatings could be a solution for such applications; however, the mechanical and dynamic conditions of most of the systems are not appropriate for solid lubricants. Despite this, solid lubricants such as PTFE and MoS2 have been largely employed in different industries, especially in those applications where liquid lubricants cannot be used and when the dynamic conditions allow for it. Self-lubricated coatings have been a major topic of interest in thermal spray in the last decades. Although the use of liquid lubricants is desirable whenever it is possible, limited research has been addressed toward the development of self-lubricated coatings containing liquid lubricants. One of the main reasons for this is due to the complexity of embedding liquid lubricant reservoirs inside the coating matrix. In the present work, a new type of liquid-solid self-lubricated coatings is presented, being the matrix a metal alloy. Three thermal spray techniques used were as follows: arc-spray, plasma spray, and HVOAF. The metal matrices were two stainless steel types and liquid lubricant-filled capsules with different liquid contents were used. No degradation of the capsules during spraying was observed and the coatings containing capsules were able to keep a low coefficient of friction. The optimal performance is found for the coatings obtained at the lowest spraying temperature and velocity.

The effect of fiber bleaching treatment on the properties of poly(lactic acid)/oil palm empty fruit bunch fiber composites.

PubMed

Rayung, Marwah; Ibrahim, Nor Azowa; Zainuddin, Norhazlin; Saad, Wan Zuhainis; Razak, Nur Inani Abdul; Chieng, Buong Woei

2014-08-22

In this work, biodegradable composites from poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) fiber were prepared by melt blending method. Prior to mixing, the fiber was modified through bleaching treatment using hydrogen peroxide. Bleached fiber composite showed an improvement in mechanical properties as compared to untreated fiber composite due to the enhanced fiber/matrix interfacial adhesion. Interestingly, fiber bleaching treatment also improved the physical appearance of the composite. The study was extended by blending the composites with commercially available masterbatch colorant.

The Effect of Fiber Bleaching Treatment on the Properties of Poly(lactic acid)/Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch Fiber Composites

PubMed Central

Rayung, Marwah; Ibrahim, Nor Azowa; Zainuddin, Norhazlin; Saad, Wan Zuhainis; Razak, Nur Inani Abdul; Chieng, Buong Woei

2014-01-01

In this work, biodegradable composites from poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) fiber were prepared by melt blending method. Prior to mixing, the fiber was modified through bleaching treatment using hydrogen peroxide. Bleached fiber composite showed an improvement in mechanical properties as compared to untreated fiber composite due to the enhanced fiber/matrix interfacial adhesion. Interestingly, fiber bleaching treatment also improved the physical appearance of the composite. The study was extended by blending the composites with commercially available masterbatch colorant. PMID:25153628

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sherman, Andrew J

A heterogeneous body having ceramic rich cermet regions in a more ductile metal matrix. The heterogeneous bodies are formed by thermal spray operations on metal substrates. The thermal spray operations apply heat to a cermet powder and project it onto a solid substrate. The cermet powder is composed of complex composite particles in which a complex ceramic-metallic core particle is coated with a matrix precursor. The cermet regions are generally comprised of complex ceramic-metallic composites that correspond approximately to the core particles. The cermet regions are approximately lenticular shaped with an average width that is at least approximately twice themore » average thickness. The cermet regions are imbedded within the matrix phase and generally isolated from one another. They have obverse and reverse surfaces. The matrix phase is formed from the matrix precursor coating on the core particles. The amount of heat applied during the formation of the heterogeneous body is controlled so that the core particles soften but do not become so fluid that they disperse throughout the matrix phase. The force of the impact on the surface of the substrate tends to flatten them. The flattened cermet regions tend to be approximately aligned with one another in the body.« less

Pickering Emulsion Gels Prepared by Hydrogen-Bonded Zein/Tannic Acid Complex Colloidal Particles.

PubMed

Zou, Yuan; Guo, Jian; Yin, Shou-Wei; Wang, Jin-Mei; Yang, Xiao-Quan

2015-08-26

Food-grade colloidal particles and complexes, which are formed via modulation of the noncovalent interactions between macromolecules and natural small molecules, can be developed as novel functional ingredients in a safe and sustainable way. For this study was prepared a novel zein/tannic acid (TA) complex colloidal particle (ZTP) based on the hydrogen-bonding interaction between zein and TA in aqueous ethanol solution by using a simple antisolvent approach. Pickering emulsion gels with high oil volume fraction (φ(oil) > 50%) were successfully fabricated via one-step homogenization. Circular dichroism (CD) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) measurements, which were used to characterize the structure of zein/TA complexes in ethanol solution, clearly showed that TA binding generated a conformational change of zein without altering their supramolecular structure at pH 5.0 and intermediate TA concentrations. Consequently, the resultant ZTP had tuned near neutral wettability (θ(ow) ∼ 86°) and enhanced interfacial reactivity, but without significantly decreased surface charge. These allowed the ZTP to stabilize the oil droplets and further triggered cross-linking to form a continuous network among and around the oil droplets and protein particles, leading to the formation of stable Pickering emulsion gels. Layer-by-layer (LbL) interfacial architecture on the oil-water surface of the droplets was observed, which implied a possibility to fabricate hierarchical interface microstructure via modulation of the noncovalent interaction between hydrophobic protein and natural polyphenol.

Application of enhanced gas chromatography/triple quadrupole mass spectrometry for monitoring petroleum weathering and forensic source fingerprinting in samples impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

PubMed

Adhikari, Puspa L; Wong, Roberto L; Overton, Edward B

2017-10-01

Accurate characterization of petroleum hydrocarbons in complex and weathered oil residues is analytically challenging. This is primarily due to chemical compositional complexity of both the oil residues and environmental matrices, and the lack of instrumental selectivity due to co-elution of interferences with the target analytes. To overcome these analytical selectivity issues, we used an enhanced resolution gas chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry in Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM) mode (GC/MS/MS-MRM) to eliminate interferences within the ion chromatograms of target analytes found in environmental samples. This new GC/MS/MS-MRM method was developed and used for forensic fingerprinting of deep-water and marsh sediment samples containing oily residues from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The results showed that the GC/MS/MS-MRM method increases selectivity, eliminates interferences, and provides more accurate quantitation and characterization of trace levels of alkyl-PAHs and biomarker compounds, from weathered oil residues in complex sample matrices. The higher selectivity of the new method, even at low detection limits, provides greater insights on isomer and homolog compositional patterns and the extent of oil weathering under various environmental conditions. The method also provides flat chromatographic baselines for accurate and unambiguous calculation of petroleum forensic biomarker compound ratios. Thus, this GC/MS/MS-MRM method can be a reliable analytical strategy for more accurate and selective trace level analyses in petroleum forensic studies, and for tacking continuous weathering of oil residues. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Matrix Game Methodology - Support to V2010 Olympic Marine Security Planners

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-02-01

OMOC was called the Integrated Safety /Security Matrix Game – Marine III, and was held 16-17 June 2009. This was the most extensive and complex of...Protection Matrix Game Marine Two .................................................. 12 3.3 Integrated Safety /Security Matrix Game – Marine III...Integrated Safety /Security Matrix Game – Marine III Scenarios........................... 53 ISSMG Marine III – Team Groupings

Inhibition of lipid oxidation by formation of caseinate-oil-oat gum complexes

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Lipid oxidation, particularly oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3 fatty acids, has posed a serious challenge to the food industry trying to incorporate heart-healthy oil products into their lines of healthful foods and beverages. In this study, model plant oil was dispersed into so...

Influence of Oil Saturation Upon Spectral Induced Polarization of Oil Bearing Sands

EPA Science Inventory

The presence of oil in an unconsolidated granular porous material such as sand changes both the resistivity of the material and the value of the phase shift between the low-frequency current and the voltage. The resistivity and the phase angle can be written as a complex-valued r...

Analysis of the main active ingredients and bioactivities of essential oil from Osmanthus fragrans Var. thunbergii using a complex network approach.

PubMed

Wang, Le; Tan, Nana; Hu, Jiayao; Wang, Huan; Duan, Dongzhu; Ma, Lin; Xiao, Jian; Wang, Xiaoling

2017-12-28

Osmanthus fragrans has been used as folk medicine for thousands of years. The extracts of Osmanthus fragrans flowers were reported to have various bioactivities including free radical scavenging, anti-inflammation, neuroprotection and antitumor effects. However, there is still lack of knowledge about its essential oil. In this work, we analyzed the chemical composition of the essential oil from Osmanthus fragrans var. thunbergii by GC-MS. A complex network approach was applied to investigate the interrelationships between the ingredients, target proteins, and related pathways for the essential oil. Statistical characteristics of the networks were further studied to explore the main active ingredients and potential bioactivities of O. fragrans var. thunbergii essential oil. A total of 44 ingredients were selected from the chemical composition of O. fragrans var. thunbergii essential oil, and that 191 potential target proteins together with 70 pathways were collected for these compounds. An ingredient-target-pathway network was constructed based on these data and showed scale-free property as well as power-law degree distribution. Eugenol and geraniol were screened as main active ingredients with much higher degree values. Potential neuroprotective and anti-tumor effect of the essential oil were also found. A core subnetwork was extracted from the ingredient-target-pathway network, and indicated that eugenol and geraniol contributed most to the neuroprotection of this essential oil. Furthermore, a pathway-based protein association network was built and exhibited small-world property. MAPK1 and MAPK3 were considered as key proteins with highest scores of centrality indices, which might play an important role in the anti-tumor effect of the essential oil. This work predicted the main active ingredients and bioactivities of O. fragrans var. thunbergii essential oil, which would benefit the development and utilization of Osmanthus fragrans flowers. The application of complex network theory was proved to be effective in bioactivities studies of essential oil. Moreover, it provides a novel strategy for exploring the molecular mechanisms of traditional medicines.

Bacteria interface interactions in Ecology-on-a-Chip by holographic microscopy and interferometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sheng, Jian; White, Andrew; Jalali, Maryam

2017-11-01

To improve our remediation of oil spills into marine system, one must understand the fate of oil under complex physical, chemical and biological environments. It is found that various processes such as wind, wave, turbulence and currents break oil into suspensions of droplets, in which states consumption by microbial further degrade the oil. Our prior studies show that marine bacteria do not adopt biofilm life style at oil-water interface in comparison to those near a solid substrate. On the contrary, Extracellular Polymer Substance of oily microbial aggregates is easily formed around an oil droplet. This highlights complexities of cell oil interactions at a liquid-liquid interface. To investigate these mechanisms at oil water interface quantitative, we have developed a micro-bioassay consisting of continuous microfluidics with a substrate printed with oil droplet array, namely Ecology-on-a-Chip, and an integrated digital holographic microscopy (DHM) and interferometer (DHI). The oil-water interface can be maintained over days (>10 days), suitable for conducting long-term observations. 3D movements of bacteria are tracked by DHM, while the interface morphology are measured by DHI at 10nm. The system is applied to Pseudomonas sp. (PS62) near crude-water interface and Escherichia coli (AW405) at hexadecane-water interface subject to low surface tension. The 3D motility, attachment, detachment and dispersion of cells as well as motility induced interface change are discussed. Funded by Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative (GoMRI).

Chaotic structure of oil prices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bildirici, Melike; Sonustun, Fulya Ozaksoy

2018-01-01

The fluctuations in oil prices are very complicated and therefore, it is unable to predict its effects on economies. For modelling complex system of oil prices, linear economic models are not sufficient and efficient tools. Thus, in recent years, economists attached great attention to non-linear structure of oil prices. For analyzing this relationship, GARCH types of models were used in some papers. Distinctively from the other papers, in this study, we aimed to analyze chaotic pattern of oil prices. Thus, it was used the Lyapunov Exponents and Hennon Map to determine chaotic behavior of oil prices for the selected time period.

Nanostructured systems for enhanced oil recovery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Altunina, L. K.; Kuvshinov, V. A.; Kuvshinov, I. V.

2015-10-01

The reservoir energy or that of the injected heat carrier was used to generate in situ intelligent chemical systems—nanostructured gels, sols and oil-displacing surfactants systems, preserving for a long time in the reservoir a complex of the properties being optimal for oil displacement. The results of field tests and commercial application of physicochemical technologies using nanostructured systems for enhanced oil recovery in oilfields with difficult-to-recover reserves, including deposits of high-viscosity oils, have been presented. Field tests of new "cold" technologies on the deposit of high-viscosity oil in Usinskoye oilfield proved their high efficiency.

Interactions of dietary fibre and omega-3-rich oil with protein in surimi gels developed with salt substitute.

PubMed

Debusca, Alicia; Tahergorabi, Reza; Beamer, Sarah K; Partington, Susan; Jaczynski, Jacek

2013-11-01

Most Western populations have insufficient intake of fibre and ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), while sodium intake greatly exceeds the recommended maximum. Surimi seafood is not currently fortified with these nutraceutical ingredients. Alaska pollock surimi seafood was developed with salt substitute and fortified with either 6g/100g of fibre or 10 g/100g of ω-3 oil (flax:algae:menhaden, 8:1:1) or fibre+ω-3 oil (6g/100g of fibre+10 g/100g of ω-3 oil). The objective was to determine effects of the dietary fortification on physicochemical properties of surimi. Fortification with either dietary fibre or ω-3 oil alone or in combination enhanced (P<0.05) rheological and textural characteristics. The combined fortification had a synergistic effect on rheological properties. This indicates greater gelation of surimi in the presence of fibre+ω-3 oil, suggesting their interaction with surimi myofibrillar proteins. Fibre results in protein dehydration increasing protein concentration; while oil is immobilised by protein filling void spaces in the gel matrix. Differential scanning calorimetry showed that fibre and ω-3 oil did not interfere with normal denaturation of surimi proteins. Colour properties were only slightly affected (P<0.05). Fortification of surimi with fibre and ω-3 oil resulted in a quality product that could be useful in developing surimi products with nutritional benefits. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Computational Modeling of Single-Cell Migration: The Leading Role of Extracellular Matrix Fibers

PubMed Central

Schlüter, Daniela K.; Ramis-Conde, Ignacio; Chaplain, Mark A.J.

2012-01-01

Cell migration is vitally important in a wide variety of biological contexts ranging from embryonic development and wound healing to malignant diseases such as cancer. It is a very complex process that is controlled by intracellular signaling pathways as well as the cell’s microenvironment. Due to its importance and complexity, it has been studied for many years in the biomedical sciences, and in the last 30 years it also received an increasing amount of interest from theoretical scientists and mathematical modelers. Here we propose a force-based, individual-based modeling framework that links single-cell migration with matrix fibers and cell-matrix interactions through contact guidance and matrix remodelling. With this approach, we can highlight the effect of the cell’s environment on its migration. We investigate the influence of matrix stiffness, matrix architecture, and cell speed on migration using quantitative measures that allow us to compare the results to experiments. PMID:22995486

Multiple Frequency Contrast Source Inversion Method for Vertical Electromagnetic Profiling: 2D Simulation Results and Analyses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jinghe; Song, Linping; Liu, Qing Huo

2016-02-01

A simultaneous multiple frequency contrast source inversion (CSI) method is applied to reconstructing hydrocarbon reservoir targets in a complex multilayered medium in two dimensions. It simulates the effects of a salt dome sedimentary formation in the context of reservoir monitoring. In this method, the stabilized biconjugate-gradient fast Fourier transform (BCGS-FFT) algorithm is applied as a fast solver for the 2D volume integral equation for the forward computation. The inversion technique with CSI combines the efficient FFT algorithm to speed up the matrix-vector multiplication and the stable convergence of the simultaneous multiple frequency CSI in the iteration process. As a result, this method is capable of making quantitative conductivity image reconstruction effectively for large-scale electromagnetic oil exploration problems, including the vertical electromagnetic profiling (VEP) survey investigated here. A number of numerical examples have been demonstrated to validate the effectiveness and capacity of the simultaneous multiple frequency CSI method for a limited array view in VEP.

Development of formulations to improve the controlled-release of linalool to be applied as an insecticide.

PubMed

Lopez, M D; Maudhuit, A; Pascual-Villalobos, M J; Poncelet, D

2012-02-08

In recent studies, insecticide activity of a monoterpene, linalool, has been demonstrated, finding, however, limitations in application because of its rapid volatilization. Potential effectiveness of microcapsules and effects of various types of matrices on its stability as controlled-release systems for the slow volatilization of linalool to be applied as insecticide were evaluated. To study controlled-release, linalool was entrapped into microcapsules, inclusion complexes, and beads, obtained by different methods, inverse gelation (IG1, IG2, IG3, IG4, and IG5), oil-emulsion-entrapment (OEE), interfacial coacervation (INCO), and chemical precipitation (Cyc5 and Cyc10). The encapsulation yield turned out to be different for each formulation, reaching the maximum retention for IG1 and OEE. In controlled-release, OEE followed by INCO presented a long time necessary for releasing as a result of the presence of glycerol or chitosan. These results pointed out remarkable differences in the release behavior of linalool depending on matrix composition and the method of encapsulation.

Improved Characterization and Modeling of Tight Oil Formations for CO 2 Enhanced Oil Recovery Potential and Storage Capacity Estimation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sorensen, James; Smith, Steven; Kurz, Bethany

Tight oil formations such as those in the Bakken petroleum system are known to hold hundreds of billions of barrels of oil in place; however, the primary recovery factor for these plays is typically less than 10%. Tight oil formations, including the Bakken Formation, therefore, may be attractive candidates for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) using CO 2. Multiphase fluid behavior and flow in fluid-rich shales can vary substantially depending on the size of pore throats, and properties such as fluid viscosity and density are much different in nanoscale pores than in macroscale pores. Thus it is critical to understand themore » nature and distribution of nano-, micro-, and macroscale pores and fracture networks. To address these issues, the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) has been conducting a research program entitled “Improved Characterization and Modeling of Tight Oil Formations for CO 2 Enhanced Oil Recovery Potential and Storage Capacity Estimation.” The objectives of the project are 1) the use of advanced characterization methods to better understand and quantify the petrophysical and geomechanical factors that control CO 2 and oil mobility within tight oil formation samples, 2) the determination of CO 2 permeation and oil extraction rates in tight reservoir rocks and organic-rich shales of the Bakken, and 3) the integration of the laboratory-based CO 2 permeation and oil extraction data and the characterization data into geologic models and dynamic simulations to develop predictions of CO 2 storage resource and EOR in the Bakken tight oil formation. A combination of standard and advanced petrophysical characterization techniques were applied to characterize samples of Bakken Formation tight reservoir rock and shales from multiple wells. Techniques included advanced computer tomography (CT) imaging, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques, whole-core and micro x-ray CT imaging, field emission (FE) SEM, and focused ion beam (FIB) SEM. Selected samples were also analyzed for geomechanical properties. X-ray CT imaging yielded information on the occurrence of fractures, bedding planes, fossils, and bioturbation in core, as well as data on bulk density and photoelectric factor logs, which were used to interpret porosity, organic content, and mineralogy. FESEM was used for characterization of nano- and microscale features, including nanoscale pore visualization and micropore and pore throat mineralogy. FIBSEM yielded micro- to nanoscale visualization of fracture networks, porosity and pore-size distribution, connected versus isolated porosity, and distribution of organics. Results from the characterization activities provide insight on nanoscale fracture properties, pore throat mineralogy and connectivity, rock matrix characteristics, mineralogy, and organic content. Laboratory experiments demonstrated that CO 2 can permeate the tight matrix of Bakken shale and nonshale reservoir samples and mobilize oil from those samples. Geologic models were created at scales ranging from the core plug to the reservoir, and dynamic simulations were conducted. The data from the characterization and laboratory-based activities were integrated into modeling research activities to determine the fundamental mechanisms controlling fluid transport in the Bakken, which support EOR scheme design and estimation of CO 2 storage potential in tight oil formations. Simulation results suggest a CO 2 storage resource estimate range of 169 million to 1.5 billion tonnes for the Bakken in North Dakota, possibly resulting in 1.8 billion to 16 billion barrels of incremental oil.« less

A multiple testing approach for hazard evaluation of complex mixtures in the aquatic environment: the use of diesel oil as a model

USGS Publications Warehouse

Johnson, B. Thomas

1989-01-01

Traditional single species toxicity tests and multiple component laboratory-scaled microcosm assays were combined to assess the toxicological hazard of diesel oil, a model complex mixture, to a model aquatic environment. The immediate impact of diesel oil dosed on a freshwater community was studied in a model pond microcosm over 14 days: a 7-day dosage and a 7-day recovery period. A multicomponent laboratory microcosm was designed to monitor the biological effects of diesel oil (1·0 mg litre−1) on four components: water, sediment (soil + microbiota), plants (aquatic macrophytes and algae), and animals (zooplanktonic and zoobenthic invertebrates). To determine the sensitivity of each part of the community to diesel oil contamination and how this model community recovered when the oil dissipated, limnological, toxicological, and microbiological variables were considered. Our model revealed these significant occurrences during the spill period: first, a community production and respiration perturbation, characterized in the water column by a decrease in dissolved oxygen and redox potential and a concomitant increase in alkalinity and conductivity; second, marked changes in microbiota of sediments that included bacterial heterotrophic dominance and a high heterotrophic index (0·6), increased bacterial productivity, and the marked increases in numbers of saprophytic bacteria (10 x) and bacterial oil degraders (1000 x); and third, column water acutely toxic (100% mortality) to two model taxa: Selenastrum capricornutum and Daphnia magna. Following the simulated clean-up procedure to remove the oil slick, the recovery period of this freshwater microcosm was characterized by a return to control values. This experimental design emphasized monitoring toxicological responses in aquatic microcosm; hence, we proposed the term ‘toxicosm’ to describe this approach to aquatic toxicological hazard evaluation. The toxicosm as a valuable toxicological tool for screening aquatic contaminants was demonstrated using diesel oil as a model complex mixture.

Feasibility study for hydrocarbon complex in southern seaboard. Petroleum Authority of Thailand

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

NONE

This study, conducted by Fluor Daniel, was funded by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency, on behalf of the Petroleum Authority of Thailand. The primary objective of the study was to investigate the economic viability of the related facilities and determine how each could help to industrialize and build up the Southern Seaboard area of Thailand. The focus of the report is in three areas including; Crude Oil Transportation System, Refinery, and Petrochemical Complex. Another objective of the study was to offer an alternative for large crude carrier traffic by proposing the completion of a crude oil pipeline. The reportmore » is divided into the following sections: (1) Executive Summary; (2) Introduction; (3) Crude Oil Transportation System; (4) Refinery Project; (5) Petrochemical Complex; (6) Key Issues & Considerations; (7) Financial Evaluations; (8) Summary & Conclusions.« less

Dynamic interactions between cells and their extracellular matrix mediate embryonic development.

PubMed

Goody, Michelle F; Henry, Clarissa A

2010-06-01

Cells and their surrounding extracellular matrix microenvironment interact throughout all stages of life. Understanding the continuously changing scope of cell-matrix interactions in vivo is crucial to garner insights into both congenital birth defects and disease progression. A current challenge in the field of developmental biology is to adapt in vitro tools and rapidly evolving imaging technology to study cell-matrix interactions in a complex 4-D environment. In this review, we highlight the dynamic modulation of cell-matrix interactions during development. We propose that individual cell-matrix adhesion proteins are best considered as complex proteins that can play multiple, often seemingly contradictory roles, depending upon the context of the microenvironment. In addition, cell-matrix proteins can also exert different short versus long term effects. It is thus important to consider cell behavior in light of the microenvironment because of the constant and dynamic reciprocal interactions occurring between them. Finally, we suggest that analysis of cell-matrix interactions at multiple levels (molecules, cells, tissues) in vivo is critical for an integrated understanding because different information can be acquired from all size scales. Copyright 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Effects of maternal dietary olive oil on pathways involved in diabetic embryopathy.

PubMed

Higa, Romina; Roberti, Sabrina Lorena; Musikant, Daniel; Mazzucco, María Belén; White, Verónica; Jawerbaum, Alicia

2014-11-01

Maternal diabetes induces a pro-oxidant/pro-inflammatory intrauterine environment related to the induction of congenital anomalies. Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs) are transcription factors that regulate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways. We investigated whether maternal diets supplemented with olive oil, enriched in oleic acid, a PPAR agonist, can regulate the expression of PPAR system genes, levels of lipoperoxidation and activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their endogenous inhibitors (TIMPs) in embryos and decidua from diabetic rats. The embryos and decidua from diabetic rats showed reduced expression of PPARs and increased concentration of lipoperoxidation, MMPs and TIMPs, whereas the maternal treatments enriched in olive oil increased PPARδ in embryos and PPARγ and PPARγ-coactivator-1α expression in decidua, and increased TIMPs concentrations and decreased lipoperoxidation and MMPs activity in both tissues. Thus, maternal diets enriched in olive oil can regulate embryonic and decidual PPAR system genes expression and reduce the pro-oxidant/pro-inflammatory environment during rat early organogenesis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Absolute quantification of olive oil DNA by droplet digital-PCR (ddPCR): Comparison of isolation and amplification methodologies.

PubMed

Scollo, Francesco; Egea, Leticia A; Gentile, Alessandra; La Malfa, Stefano; Dorado, Gabriel; Hernandez, Pilar

2016-12-15

Olive oil is considered a premium product for its nutritional value and health benefits, and the ability to define its origin and varietal composition is a key step towards ensuring the traceability of the product. However, isolating the DNA from such a matrix is a difficult task. In this study, the quality and quantity of olive oil DNA, isolated using four different DNA isolation protocols, was evaluated using the qRT-PCR and ddPCR techniques. The results indicate that CTAB-based extraction methods were the best for unfiltered oil, while Nucleo Spin-based extraction protocols showed greater overall reproducibility. The use of both qRT-PCR and ddPCR led to the absolute quantification of the DNA copy number. The results clearly demonstrate the importance of the choice of DNA-isolation protocol, which should take into consideration the qualitative aspects of DNA and the evaluation of the amplified DNA copy number. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hydrothermal pretreatment enhanced enzymatic hydrolysis and glucose production from oil palm biomass.

PubMed

Zakaria, Mohd Rafein; Hirata, Satoshi; Hassan, Mohd Ali

2015-01-01

The present works investigate hydrothermal pretreatment of oil palm empty fruit bunch and oil palm frond fiber in a batch tube reactor system with temperature and time range from 170 to 250°C and 10 to 20min, respectively. The behavior of soluble sugars, acids, furans, and phenols dramatically changed over treatment severities as determined by HPLC. The cellulose-rich treated solids were analyzed by SEM, WAXD, and BET surface area. Enzymatic hydrolysis was performed from both pretreated slurries and washed solid, and data obtained suggested that tannic acid derived from lignin degradation was a potential cellulase inhibitor. Both partial removal of hemicellulose and migration of lignin during hydrothermal pretreatment caused structural changes on the cellulose-hemicellulose-lignin matrix, resulting in the opening and expansion of specific surface area and pore volume. The current results provided important factors that maximize conversion of cellulose to glucose from oil palm biomass by hydrothermal process. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An improved dispersive solid-phase extraction clean-up method for the gas chromatography-negative chemical ionisation tandem mass spectrometric determination of multiclass pesticide residues in edible oils.

PubMed

Deme, Pragney; Azmeera, Tirupathi; Prabhavathi Devi, B L A; Jonnalagadda, Padmaja R; Prasad, R B N; Vijaya Sarathi, U V R

2014-01-01

An improved sample preparation using dispersive solid-phase extraction clean-up was proposed for the trace level determination of 35 multiclass pesticide residues (organochlorine, organophosphorus and synthetic pyrethroids) in edible oils. Quantification of the analytes was carried out by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in negative chemical ionisation mode (GC-NCI-MS/MS). The limit of detection and limit of quantification of residues were in the range of 0.01-1ng/g and 0.05-2ng/g, respectively. The analytes showed recoveries between 62% and 110%, and the matrix effect was observed to be less than 25% for most of the pesticides. Crude edible oil samples showed endosulfan isomers, p,p'-DDD, α-cypermethrin, chlorpyrifos, and diazinon residues in the range of 0.56-2.14ng/g. However, no pesticide residues in the detection range of the method were observed in refined oils. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tectonic slicing and mixing processes along the subduction interface: The Sistan example (Eastern Iran)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonnet, G.; Agard, P.; Angiboust, S.; Monié, P.; Jentzer, M.; Omrani, J.; Whitechurch, H.; Fournier, M.

2018-06-01

Suture zones preserve metamorphosed relicts of subducted ocean floor later exhumed along the plate interface that can provide critical insights on subduction zone processes. Mélange-like units are exceptionally well-exposed in the Sistan suture (Eastern Iran), which results from the closure of a branch of the Neotethys between the Lut and Afghan continental blocks. High pressure rocks found in the inner part of the suture zone (i.e., Ratuk complex) around Gazik are herein compared to previously studied outcrops along the belt. Detailed field investigations and mapping allow the distinction of two kinds of subduction-related block-in-matrix units: a siliciclastic-matrix complex and a serpentinite-matrix complex. The siliciclastic-matrix complex includes barely metamorphosed blocks of serpentinized peridotite, radiolarite and basalt of maximum greenschist-facies grade (i.e., maximum temperature of 340 °C). The serpentinite-matrix complex includes blocks of various grades and lithologies: mafic eclogites, amphibolitized blueschists, blue-amphibole-bearing metacherts and aegirine-augite-albite rocks. Eclogites reached peak pressure conditions around 530 °C and 2.3 GPa and isothermal retrogression down to 530 °C and 0.9 GPa. Estimation of peak PT conditions for the other rocks are less-well constrained but suggest equilibration at P < 1 GPa. Strikingly similar Ar-Ar ages of 86 ± 3 Ma, along 70 km, are obtained for phengite and amphibole from fourteen eclogite and amphibolitized blueschist blocks. Ages in Gazik are usually younger than further south (e.g., Sulabest), but there is little age difference between the various kinds of rocks. These results (radiometric ages, observed structures and rock types) support a tectonic origin of the serpentinite-matrix mélange and shed light on subduction zone dynamics, particularly on coeval detachment and exhumation mechanisms of slab-derived rocks.

Krill oil attenuates left ventricular dilatation after myocardial infarction in rats.

PubMed

Fosshaug, Linn E; Berge, Rolf K; Beitnes, Jan O; Berge, Kjetil; Vik, Hogne; Aukrust, Pål; Gullestad, Lars; Vinge, Leif E; Øie, Erik

2011-12-29

In the western world, heart failure (HF) is one of the most important causes of cardiovascular mortality. Supplement with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) has been shown to improve cardiac function in HF and to decrease mortality after myocardial infarction (MI). The molecular structure and composition of n-3 PUFA varies between different marine sources and this may be of importance for their biological effects. Krill oil, unlike fish oil supplements, contains the major part of the n-3 PUFA in the form of phospholipids. This study investigated effects of krill oil on cardiac remodeling after experimental MI. Rats were randomised to pre-treatment with krill oil or control feed 14 days before induction of MI. Seven days post-MI, the rats were examined with echocardiography and rats in the control group were further randomised to continued control feed or krill oil feed for 7 weeks before re-examination with echocardiography and euthanization. The echocardiographic evaluation showed significant attenuation of LV dilatation in the group pretreated with krill oil compared to controls. Attenuated heart weight, lung weight, and levels of mRNA encoding classical markers of LV stress, matrix remodeling and inflammation reflected these findings. The total composition of fatty acids were examined in the left ventricular (LV) tissue and all rats treated with krill oil showed a significantly higher proportion of n-3 PUFA in the LV tissue, although no difference was seen between the two krill oil groups. Supplement with krill oil leads to a proportional increase of n-3 PUFA in myocardial tissue and supplement given before induction of MI attenuates LV remodeling.

Gold nanorods in an oil-base formulation for transdermal treatment of type 1 diabetes in mice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nose, Keisuke; Pissuwan, Dakrong; Goto, Masahiro; Katayama, Yoshiki; Niidome, Takuro

2012-05-01

Efficient transdermal insulin delivery to the systemic circulation would bring major benefit to diabetic patients. We investigated the possibility of using gold nanorods (GNRs) that formed a complex with an edible surfactant and insulin (INS) in an oil phase to form a solid-in-oil (SO) formulation (SO-INS-GNR) for transdermal treatment of diabetes. Diabetic mice comprised the model for our study. In vitro, there was high penetration of insulin through the stratum corneum (SC) and the dermis in mouse skin treated with an SO-INS-GNR complex plus near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation. Blood glucose levels in the diabetic mice were significantly decreased after treatment with SO-INS-GNR plus irradiation. To our knowledge, this is the first study to use gold nanorods for systemic insulin delivery through the skin. The use of an SO-INS-GNR complex combined with NIR irradiation may provide the possibility of transdermal insulin delivery to diabetic patients.Efficient transdermal insulin delivery to the systemic circulation would bring major benefit to diabetic patients. We investigated the possibility of using gold nanorods (GNRs) that formed a complex with an edible surfactant and insulin (INS) in an oil phase to form a solid-in-oil (SO) formulation (SO-INS-GNR) for transdermal treatment of diabetes. Diabetic mice comprised the model for our study. In vitro, there was high penetration of insulin through the stratum corneum (SC) and the dermis in mouse skin treated with an SO-INS-GNR complex plus near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation. Blood glucose levels in the diabetic mice were significantly decreased after treatment with SO-INS-GNR plus irradiation. To our knowledge, this is the first study to use gold nanorods for systemic insulin delivery through the skin. The use of an SO-INS-GNR complex combined with NIR irradiation may provide the possibility of transdermal insulin delivery to diabetic patients. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c2nr30651d

Pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) export from the mitochondrial matrix.

PubMed

Ng, Fanny; Tang, Bor Luen

2014-01-01

Studies on mitochondria protein import had revealed in detail molecular mechanisms of how peptides and proteins could be selectively targeted and translocated across membrane bound organelles. The opposite process of mitochondrial export, while known to occur in various aspects of cellular physiology and pathology, is less well understood. Two very recent reports have indicated that a large mitochondrial matrix protein complex, the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) (or its component subunits), could be exported to the lysosomes and the nucleus, respectively. In the case of the latter, evidence was presented to suggest that the entire complex of 8-10 MDa could translocate in its entirety from the mitochondrial matrix to the nucleus upon mitogenic or stress stimuli. We discuss these findings in perspective to what is currently known about the processes of transport in and out of the mitochondrion.

Photochemistry and reactivity of the phenyl radical-water system: a matrix isolation and computational study.

PubMed

Mardyukov, Artur; Crespo-Otero, Rachel; Sanchez-Garcia, Elsa; Sander, Wolfram

2010-08-02

The reaction of the phenyl radical 1 with water has been investigated by using matrix isolation spectroscopy and quantum chemical calculations. The primary thermal product of the reaction between 1 and water is a weakly bound complex stabilized by an OH...pi interaction. This complex is photolabile, and visible-light irradiation (lambda>420 nm) results in hydrogen atom transfer from water to radical 1 and the formation of a highly labile complex between benzene and the OH radical. This complex is stable under the conditions of matrix isolation, however, continuous irradiation with lambda>420 nm light results in the complete destruction of the aromatic system and formation of an acylic unsaturated ketene. The mechanisms of all reaction steps are discussed in the light of ab initio and DFT calculations.

Silicone Oil Swelling Slippery Surfaces Based on Mussel-Inspired Magnetic Nanoparticles with Multiple Self-Healing Mechanisms.

PubMed

Jin, Biyu; Liu, Mingzhu; Zhang, Qinghua; Zhan, Xiaoli; Chen, Fengqiu

2017-10-03

In this work, a novel substrate building block, magnetic Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles armed with dopamine molecules were developed via mussel-inspired metal-coordination bonds. Combined with glycidyl methacrylate, polydimethylsiloxane propyl ether methacrylate, and diethylenetriamine, the original silicone oil swelling slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces (SLIPS) were first prepared by reversible coordinate bonds and strong covalent bonds cross-linking process. The matrix mechanical characteristics and surface physicochemical properties were systematically investigated. Results showed that the mechanical property of copolymer matrix and surface wettability of SLIPS can be remarkably recovered, which were due to the synergistic interactions of magnetic nanoparticles' intrinsic photothermal effect, reversible Fe-catechol coordination, and diffused lubricating liquid. After irradiating with sunlamp for 2 h and sequentially healing for 10 h under ambient conditions, the crack almost disappeared under optical microscopy with 78.25% healing efficiency (HEf) of toughness, and surface slippery was completely retrieved to water droplets. The efficient self-heal of copolymer matrix (66.5% HEf after eighth cutting-healing cycle) and recovering of slipperiness (SA < 5° and 5° < SA < 17° after fourth and eighth cutting-centrifuging-healing cycles, respectively) would extend longevity of SLIPS when subjected to multiple damages. Moreover, the prepared SLIPS displayed superb self-cleaning and liquid-repellent properties to a wide range of particulate contaminants and fluids.

Coordination of ScO+ and YO+ by multiple Ar, Kr, and Xe atoms in noble gas matrixes: a matrix isolation infrared spectroscopic and theoretical study.

PubMed

Zhao, Yanying; Gong, Yu; Chen, Mohua; Ding, Chuanfan; Zhou, Mingfei

2005-12-29

The combination of matrix isolation infrared spectroscopic and quantum chemical calculation results provide strong evidence that scandium and yttrium monoxide cations, ScO+ and YO+, coordinate multiple noble gas atoms in forming noble gas complexes. The results showed that ScO+ coordinates five Ar, Kr, or Xe atoms, and YO+ coordinates six Ar or Kr and five Xe atoms in solid noble gas matrixes. Hence, the ScO+ and YO+ cations trapped in solid noble gas matrixes should be regarded as the [ScO(Ng)5]+ (Ng = Ar, Kr, or Xe), [YO(Ng)6]+ (Ng = Ar or Kr) or [YO(Xe)5]+ complexes. Experiments with dilute krypton or xenon in argon or krypton in xenon produced new IR bands, which are due to the stepwise formation of the [ScO(Ar)(5-n)(Kr)n]+, [ScO(Kr)(5-n)(Xe)n]+ (n = 1-5), [YO(Ar)(6-n)(Kr)n]+ (n = 1-6), and [YO(Ar)(6-n)(Xe)n]+ (n = 1-4) complexes.

Assessing field-scale biogeophysical signatures of bioremediation over a mature crude oil spill

USGS Publications Warehouse

Slater, Lee; Ntarlagiannis, Dimitrios; Atekwana, Estella; Mewafy, Farag; Revil, Andre; Skold, Magnus; Gorby, Yuri; Day-Lewis, Frederick D.; Lane, John W.; Trost, Jared J.; Werkema, Dale D.; Delin, Geoffrey N.; Herkelrath, William N.; Rectanus, H.V.; Sirabian, R.

2011-01-01

We conducted electrical geophysical measurements at the National Crude Oil Spill Fate and Natural Attenuation Research Site (Bemidji, MN). Borehole and surface self-potential measurements do not show evidence for the existence of a biogeobattery mechanism in response to the redox gradient resulting from biodegradation of oil. The relatively small self potentials recorded are instead consistent with an electrodiffusion mechanism driven by differences in the mobility of charge carriers associated with biodegradation byproducts. Complex resistivity measurements reveal elevated electrical conductivity and interfacial polarization at the water table where oil contamination is present, extending into the unsaturated zone. This finding implies that the effect of microbial cell growth/attachment, biofilm formation, and mineral weathering accompanying hydrocarbon biodegradation on complex interfacial conductivity imparts a sufficiently large electrical signal to be measured using field-scale geophysical techniques.

Solid lipid nanodispersions containing mixed lipid core and a polar heterolipid: characterization.

PubMed

Attama, A A; Schicke, B C; Paepenmüller, T; Müller-Goymann, C C

2007-08-01

This paper describes the characterization of solid lipid nanodispersions (SLN) prepared with a 1:1 mixture of theobroma oil and goat fat as the main lipid matrix and Phospholipon 90G (P90G) as a stabilizer heterolipid, using polysorbate 80 as the mobile surfactant, with a view to applying the SLN in drug delivery. The 1:1 lipid mixture and P90G constituting the lipid matrix was first homogeneously prepared by fusion. Thereafter, the SLN were formulated with a gradient of polysorbate 80 and constant lipid matrix concentration by melt-high pressure homogenisation. The SLN were characterized by time-resolved particle size analysis, zeta potential and osmotic pressure measurements, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and isothermal heat conduction microcalorimetry (IMC) which monitors the in situ crystallization were also carried out on the SLN containing P90G and 1.0 % w/w of polysorbate 80. The results obtained in these studies were compared with SLN prepared with theobroma oil with and without phospholipid. Particle size analysis of SLN indicated reduction in size with increase in concentration of mobile surfactant and was in the lower nanometer range after 3 months except SLN prepared without P90G or polysorbate 80. The lipid nanoparticles had negative potentials after 3 months. WAXD and DSC studies revealed low crystalline SLN after 3 months of storage except in WAXD of SLN formulated with 1.0 % w/w polysorbate 80. TEM micrograph of the SLN containing 1.0 % w/w polysorbate 80 revealed discrete particles whose sizes were in consonance with the static light scattering measurement. In situ crystallization studies in IMC revealed delayed crystallization of the SLN with 1.0 % w/w polysorbate 80. Results indicate lipid mixtures produced SLN with lower crystallinity and higher particle sizes compared with SLN prepared with theobroma oil alone with or without P90G, and would lead to higher drug incorporation efficiency when used in formulation of actives. Mixtures of theobroma oil and goat fat would be suitable for the preparation of nanostructured lipid carriers. SLN of theobroma oil containing phospholipid could prove to be a good ocular or parenteral drug delivery system considering the low particle size, particle size stability and in vivo tolerability of the component lipids. SLN prepared with lipid admixture, which had higher increase in d(90%) on storage are suitable for preparation of topical and transdermal products.

Assessment of Methane and VOC Emissions on Select Upstream Oil and Gas Production Operations Using Remote Measurements, Interim Report on Recent Survey Studies

EPA Science Inventory

Environmentally responsible development of oil and gas assets in the United States is facilitated by advancement of sector-specific air pollution emission measurement and modeling tools. Emissions from upstream oil and gas production are complex in nature due to the variety of e...

Impregnation of bio-oil from small diameter pine into wood for moisture resistance

Treesearch

Thomas J. Robinson; Brian K. Via; Oladiran Fasina; Sushil Adhikari; Emily Carter

2011-01-01

Wood pyrolysis oil consists of hundreds of complex compounds, many of which are phenolic-based and exhibit hydrophobic properties. Southern yellow pine was impregnated with a pyrolysis oil-based penetrant using both a high pressure and vacuum impregnation systems, with no significant differences in retention levels. Penetrant concentrations ranging from 5-50% pyrolysis...

Relationship between diffusivity of water molecules inside hydrating tablets and their drug release behavior elucidated by magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Kikuchi, Shingo; Onuki, Yoshinori; Kuribayashi, Hideto; Takayama, Kozo

2012-01-01

We reported previously that sustained release matrix tablets showed zero-order drug release without being affected by pH change. To understand drug release mechanisms more fully, we monitored the swelling and erosion of hydrating tablets using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Three different types of tablets comprised of polyion complex-forming materials and a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) were used. Proton density- and diffusion-weighted images of the hydrating tablets were acquired at intervals. Furthermore, apparent self-diffusion coefficient maps were generated from diffusion-weighted imaging to evaluate the state of hydrating tablets. Our findings indicated that water penetration into polyion complex tablets was faster than that into HPMC matrix tablets. In polyion complex tablets, water molecules were dispersed homogeneously and their diffusivity was relatively high, whereas in HPMC matrix tablets, water molecule movement was tightly restricted within the gel. An optimal tablet formulation determined in a previous study had water molecule penetration and diffusivity properties that appeared intermediate to those of polyion complex and HPMC matrix tablets; water molecules were capable of penetrating throughout the tablets and relatively high diffusivity was similar to that in the polyion complex tablet, whereas like the HPMC matrix tablet, it was well swollen. This study succeeded in characterizing the tablet hydration process. MRI provides profound insight into the state of water molecules in hydrating tablets; thus, it is a useful tool for understanding drug release mechanisms at a molecular level.

Altering wettability to recover more oil from tight formations

DOE PAGES

Brady, Patrick V.; Bryan, Charles R.; Thyne, Geoffrey; ...

2016-06-03

We describe here a method for chemically modifying fracturing fluids and overflushes to chemically increase oil recovery from tight formations. Oil wetting of tight formations is usually controlled by adhesion to illite, kerogen, or both; adhesion to carbonate minerals may also play a role. Oil-illite adhesion is sensitive to salinity, dissolved divalent cation content, and pH. We measure oil-rock adhesion with middle Bakken formation oil and core to verify a surface complexation model of reservoir wettability. The agreement between the model and experiments suggests that wettability trends in tight formations can be quantitatively predicted and that fracturing fluid and overflushmore » compositions can be individually tailored to increase oil recovery.« less

Altering wettability to recover more oil from tight formations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brady, Patrick V.; Bryan, Charles R.; Thyne, Geoffrey

We describe here a method for chemically modifying fracturing fluids and overflushes to chemically increase oil recovery from tight formations. Oil wetting of tight formations is usually controlled by adhesion to illite, kerogen, or both; adhesion to carbonate minerals may also play a role. Oil-illite adhesion is sensitive to salinity, dissolved divalent cation content, and pH. We measure oil-rock adhesion with middle Bakken formation oil and core to verify a surface complexation model of reservoir wettability. The agreement between the model and experiments suggests that wettability trends in tight formations can be quantitatively predicted and that fracturing fluid and overflushmore » compositions can be individually tailored to increase oil recovery.« less

Rotordynamic analysis using the Complex Transfer Matrix: An application to elastomer supports using the viscoelastic correspondence principle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Varney, Philip; Green, Itzhak

2014-11-01

Numerous methods are available to calculate rotordynamic whirl frequencies, including analytic methods, finite element analysis, and the transfer matrix method. The typical real-valued transfer matrix (RTM) suffers from several deficiencies, including lengthy computation times and the inability to distinguish forward and backward whirl. Though application of complex coordinates in rotordynamic analysis is not novel per se, specific advantages gained from using such coordinates in a transfer matrix analysis have yet to be elucidated. The present work employs a complex coordinate redefinition of the transfer matrix to obtain reduced forms of the elemental transfer matrices in inertial and rotating reference frames, including external stiffness and damping. Application of the complex-valued state variable redefinition results in a reduction of the 8×8 RTM to the 4×4 Complex Transfer Matrix (CTM). The CTM is advantageous in that it intrinsically separates forward and backward whirl, eases symbolic manipulation by halving the transfer matrices’ dimension, and provides significant improvement in computation time. A symbolic analysis is performed on a simple overhung rotor to demonstrate the mathematical motivation for whirl frequency separation. The CTM's utility is further shown by analyzing a rotordynamic system supported by viscoelastic elastomer rings. Viscoelastic elastomer ring supports can provide significant damping while reducing the cost and complexity associated with conventional components such as squeeze film dampers. The stiffness and damping of a viscoelastic damper ring are determined herein as a function of whirl frequency using the viscoelastic correspondence principle and a constitutive fractional calculus viscoelasticity model. The CTM is then employed to obtain the characteristic equation, where the whirl frequency dependent stiffness and damping of the elastomer supports are included. The Campbell diagram is shown, demonstrating the CTM's ability to intrinsically separate synchronous whirl direction for a non-trivial rotordynamic system. Good agreement is found between the CTM results and previously obtained analytic and experimental results for the elastomer ring supported rotordynamic system.

Molecular analysis on the utilization of oil palm empty fruit bunches fiber as reinforcement for acrylonitrile butadiene styrene biocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hermawan, B.; Nikmatin, S.; Alatas, H.; Sudaryanto; Sukaryo, S. G.

2017-05-01

Oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB) was one of the solid waste produced by the palm oil factory and were totally plentiful in biomass. OPEFB fiber used as reinforcement of polymer matrix acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The use of FTIR is to see that there is no changes in the molecules of the constituent biocomposite ABS and OPEFB. The reactivity of butadiene and styrene through the double bond- π conjugated system, contributed to the bond reaction with the maleic acid as compatibilizer witch is grafted to the system. It is concluded that the posible grafting reaction occurs by the addition of the MAH to the double bond of the butadiene and styrene. The hydroxyl group of cellulose can interact with this maleic acid to form a bond through the carboxyl group.

Sacrificial adsorbate for surfactants utilized in chemical floods of enhanced oil recovery operations

DOEpatents

Johnson, Jr., James S.; Westmoreland, Clyde G.

1982-01-01

The present invention is directed to a sacrificial or competitive adsorbate for surfactants contained in chemical flooding emulsions for enhanced oil recovery operations. The adsorbate to be utilized in the method of the present invention is a caustic effluent from the bleach stage or the weak black liquor from the digesters and pulp washers of the kraft pulping process. This effluent or weak black liquor is injected into an oil-bearing subterranean earth formation prior to or concurrent with the chemical flood emulsion and is adsorbed on the active mineral surfaces of the formation matrix so as to effectively reduce adsorption of surfactant in the chemical flood. Alternatively, the effluent or liquor can be injected into the subterranean earth formation subsequent to a chemical flood to displace the surfactant from the mineral surfaces for the recovery thereof.

Sacrificial adsorbate for surfactants utilized in chemical floods of enhanced oil recovery operations

DOEpatents

Johnson, J.S. Jr.; Westmoreland, C.G.

1980-08-20

The present invention is directed to a sacrificial or competitive adsorbate for surfactants contained in chemical flooding emulsions for enhanced oil recovery operations. The adsorbate to be utilized in the method of the present invention is a caustic effluent from the bleach stage or the weak black liquor from the digesters and pulp washers of the kraft pulping process. This effluent or weak black liquor is injected into an oil-bearing subterranean earth formation prior to or concurrent with the chemical flood emulsion and is adsorbed on the active mineral surfaces of the formation matrix so as to effectively reduce adsorption of surfactant in the chemical flood. Alternatively, the effluent or liquor can be injected into the subterranean earth formation subsequent to a chemical flood to displace the surfactant from the mineral surfaces for the recovery thereof.

Effect of residual oil saturation on hydrodynamic properties of porous media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Junjie; Zheng, Xilai; Chen, Lei; Sun, Yunwei

2014-07-01

To understand the effect of residual oil on hydraulic properties and solute dispersive behavior of porous media, miscible displacement column experiments were conducted using two petroleum products (diesel and engine oil) and a sandy soil. The effective water permeability, effective water-filled porosity, and dispersivity were investigated in two-fluid systems of water and oil as a function of residual oil saturation (ROS). At the end of each experiment, the distribution of ending ROS along the sand column was determined by the method of petroleum ether extraction-ultraviolet spectrophotometry. Darcy’s Law was used to determine permeability, while breakthrough curves (BTCs) of a tracer, Cl-, were used to calibrate effective porosity and dispersivity. The experimental results indicate that the maximum saturated zone residual saturation of diesel and engine oil in this study are 16.0% and 45.7%, respectively. Cl- is found to have no sorption on the solid matrix. Generated BTCs are sigmoid in shape with no evidence of tailing. The effective porosity of sand is inversely proportional to ROS. For the same level of ROS, the magnitude of reduction in effective porosity by diesel is close to that by engine oil. The relative permeability of sand to water saturation decreases with increasing amount of trapped oil, and the slope of the relative permeability-saturation curve for water is larger at higher water saturations, indicating that oil first occupies larger pores, which have the most contribution to the conductivity of the water. In addition, the reduction rate of relative permeability by diesel is greater than that by engine oil. The dispersivity increases with increasing ROS, suggesting that the blockage of pore spaces by immobile oil globules may enhance local velocity variations and increase the tortuosity of aqueous-phase flow paths.

Porous ceramic membrane with superhydrophobic and superoleophilic surface for reclaiming oil from oily water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Changhong; Xu, Youqian; Zhang, Wei; Liu, Yang; Li, Jun

2012-01-01

A porous ceramic tube with superhydrophobic and superoleophilic surface was fabricated by sol-gel and then surface modification with polyurethane-polydimethysiloxane, and an oil-water separator based on the porous ceramic tube was erected to characterize superhydrophobic and superoleophilic surface's separation efficiency and velocity when being used to reclaim oil from oily water and complex oily water containing clay particle. The separator is fit for reclaiming oil from oily water.

pH-Sensitive self-propelled motion of oil droplets in the presence of cationic surfactants containing hydrolyzable ester linkages.

PubMed

Banno, Taisuke; Kuroha, Rie; Toyota, Taro

2012-01-17

Self-propelled oil droplets in a nonequilibrium system have drawn much attention as both a primitive type of inanimate chemical machinery and a dynamic model of the origin of life. Here, to create the pH-sensitive self-propelled motion of oil droplets, we synthesized cationic surfactants containing hydrolyzable ester linkages. We found that n-heptyloxybenzaldehyde oil droplets were self-propelled in the presence of ester-containing cationic surfactant. In basic solution prepared with sodium hydroxide, oil droplets moved as molecular aggregates formed on their surface. Moreover, the self-propelled motion in the presence of the hydrolyzable cationic surfactant lasted longer than that in the presence of nonhydrolyzable cationic surfactant. This is probably due to the production of a fatty acid by the hydrolysis of the ester-containing cationic surfactant and the subsequent neutralization of the fatty acid with sodium hydroxide. A complex surfactant was formed in the aqueous solution because of the cation and anion combination. Because such complex formation can induce both a decrease in the interfacial tension of the oil droplet and self-assembly with n-heptyloxybenzaldehyde and lauric acid in the aqueous dispersion, the prolonged movement of the oil droplet may be explained by the increase in heterogeneity of the interfacial tension of the oil droplet triggered by the hydrolysis of the ester-containing surfactant. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Gravity-directed separation of both immiscible and emulsified oil/water mixtures utilizing coconut shell layer.

PubMed

Li, Jian; Xu, Changcheng; Zhang, Yan; Tang, Xiaohua; Qi, Wei; Wang, Qiong

2018-02-01

Pressure-driven and lower flux of superwetting ultrafiltration membranes in various emulsions separation are long-standing issues and major barriers for their large-scale utilization. Even though currently reported membranes have achieved great success in emulsions separeation, they still suffer from low flux and complex fabrication process resulting from their smaller nanoscale pore size. Herein, utilizition of coconut shell as a novel biomaterial for developing into a layer through the simple smashing, cleaning and stacking procedures, which not only could avoid the complexity of film making process, but also could realize efficient gravity-directed separation of both immiscible oil/water mixtures and water-in-oil emulsions with high flux. Specifically, the layer acted as "water-removing" type filtrate material with excellent underwater superoleophobicity, exhibiting high efficiency for various immiscible oil/water mixtures separation and larger oil intrusion pressure. More importantly, the layer could also serve as adsorbent material with underoil superhydrophilicity, achieving gravity-directed kinds of water-in-oil emulsions separation with high separation efficiency (above 99.99%) and higher flux (above 1620L/m 2 h), even when their pore sizes are larger than that of emulsified droplets. We deeply believe that this study would open up a new strategy for both immiscible oil/water mixtures and water-in-oil emulsions separation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Geologic evolution of the Kastel trough and its implications on the Adiyaman oil fields, SE Turkey

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Coskun, Bu.

1990-05-01

Oil field developments of the Adiyaman area one of the main oil producing zones in southeast Turkey, have been highly influenced by geologic evolution of the Kastel trough which is situated in front of the suture zone between the Arabian and Anatolian plates. The Upper Cretaceous movements created many paleostructural trends in the Kastel trough where important dolomitic and porous reservoirs exist. The most important tectonic event, which appeared during the Upper Cretaceous movements, is the accumulation of the Kocali-Karadut ophiolitic complex, advancing from the north to the south in the Kastel trough, where heavy materials caused formation of amore » structural model favoring generation and migration and entrapment of oil in the reservoir rocks. Due to the presence of the Kocali-Karadut complex in the Kastel trough the following zones have been distinguished. (1) North Uplift Area. Situated under the allochthonous units, many thrust and reverse faults characterize this zone. The presence of paleohighs, where primary dolomites develop, allows the appearance of some oil fields in the region. This is the main future exploration zone in southeast Turkey. (2) Accumulation Area. Advancing from the north to the south, the allochthonous Kocali-Karadut complex filled the Kastel trough creating a deep graben whose flanks present generally normal faults. (3) Structural Belt. Important paleohighs constitute an exploration trend in this zone where dolomitic and porous carbonates contain actual oil fields. (4) South Accumulation Area. Distant from the Arabian-Anatolian suture zone, regional tectonics and sedimentology show this zone remained deeply buried during geologic time; good source rocks were deposited during the Cretaceous. (5) South Uplift Area. This area corresponds to the northern flank of the huge regional Mardin high in southeast Turkey where new oil fields have been discovered.« less

21. Power plant engine fuel oil piping diagrams, sheet 83 ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

21. Power plant engine fuel oil piping diagrams, sheet 83 of 130 - Naval Air Station Fallon, Power Plant, 800 Complex, off Carson Road near intersection of Pasture & Berney Roads, Fallon, Churchill County, NV

The bilinear complexity and practical algorithms for matrix multiplication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smirnov, A. V.

2013-12-01

A method for deriving bilinear algorithms for matrix multiplication is proposed. New estimates for the bilinear complexity of a number of problems of the exact and approximate multiplication of rectangular matrices are obtained. In particular, the estimate for the boundary rank of multiplying 3 × 3 matrices is improved and a practical algorithm for the exact multiplication of square n × n matrices is proposed. The asymptotic arithmetic complexity of this algorithm is O( n 2.7743).

Matrix Perturbation Techniques in Structural Dynamics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Caughey, T. K.

1973-01-01

Matrix perturbation are developed techniques which can be used in the dynamical analysis of structures where the range of numerical values in the matrices extreme or where the nature of the damping matrix requires that complex valued eigenvalues and eigenvectors be used. The techniques can be advantageously used in a variety of fields such as earthquake engineering, ocean engineering, aerospace engineering and other fields concerned with the dynamical analysis of large complex structures or systems of second order differential equations. A number of simple examples are included to illustrate the techniques.

Mechanical properties of high density polyethylene--pennycress press cake composites

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Pennycress press cake (PPC) is evaluated as a bio-based fiber reinforcement. PPC is a by-product of crop seed oil extraction. Composites with a high density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix are created by twin screw compounding of 25% by weight of PPC and either 0% or 5% by weight of maleated polyethyle...

Establishing the evidence base for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem function in the oil palm landscapes of South East Asia.

PubMed

Foster, William A; Snaddon, Jake L; Turner, Edgar C; Fayle, Tom M; Cockerill, Timothy D; Ellwood, M D Farnon; Broad, Gavin R; Chung, Arthur Y C; Eggleton, Paul; Khen, Chey Vun; Yusah, Kalsum M

2011-11-27

The conversion of natural forest to oil palm plantation is a major current threat to the conservation of biodiversity in South East Asia. Most animal taxa decrease in both species richness and abundance on conversion of forest to oil palm, and there is usually a severe loss of forest species. The extent of loss varies significantly across both different taxa and different microhabitats within the oil palm habitat. The principal driver of this loss in diversity is probably the biological and physical simplification of the habitat, but there is little direct evidence for this. The conservation of forest species requires the preservation of large reserves of intact forest, but we must not lose sight of the importance of conserving biodiversity and ecosystem processes within the oil palm habitat itself. We urgently need to carry out research that will establish whether maintaining diversity supports economically and ecologically important processes. There is some evidence that both landscape and local complexity can have positive impacts on biodiversity in the oil palm habitat. By intelligent manipulation of habitat complexity, it could be possible to enhance not only the number of species that can live in oil palm plantations but also their contribution to the healthy functioning of this exceptionally important and widespread landscape.

Establishing the evidence base for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem function in the oil palm landscapes of South East Asia

PubMed Central

Foster, William A.; Snaddon, Jake L.; Turner, Edgar C.; Fayle, Tom M.; Cockerill, Timothy D.; Ellwood, M. D. Farnon; Broad, Gavin R.; Chung, Arthur Y. C.; Eggleton, Paul; Khen, Chey Vun; Yusah, Kalsum M.

2011-01-01

The conversion of natural forest to oil palm plantation is a major current threat to the conservation of biodiversity in South East Asia. Most animal taxa decrease in both species richness and abundance on conversion of forest to oil palm, and there is usually a severe loss of forest species. The extent of loss varies significantly across both different taxa and different microhabitats within the oil palm habitat. The principal driver of this loss in diversity is probably the biological and physical simplification of the habitat, but there is little direct evidence for this. The conservation of forest species requires the preservation of large reserves of intact forest, but we must not lose sight of the importance of conserving biodiversity and ecosystem processes within the oil palm habitat itself. We urgently need to carry out research that will establish whether maintaining diversity supports economically and ecologically important processes. There is some evidence that both landscape and local complexity can have positive impacts on biodiversity in the oil palm habitat. By intelligent manipulation of habitat complexity, it could be possible to enhance not only the number of species that can live in oil palm plantations but also their contribution to the healthy functioning of this exceptionally important and widespread landscape. PMID:22006968

Optimization and control of dynamic percolationin nanostructured silicon oils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badard, Mathieu; Combessis, Anthony; Allais, Arnaud; Flandin, Lionel

2017-06-01

The addition of carbonaceous fillers in polymers allows the conception of composites with optimized electrical properties. The conductivity of such material depends of the fillers structuration in matrix, especially the presence of percolated network. The objective of this paper is to understand the main aggregation mechanisms of carbon nanotubes in different media. The structuration of these filler network is probed by the use of electrical and dielectrical measurements. The innovative part of our work lies in the use of liquid matrices, especially silicon oils, to overcome mechanical constraints present in polymers on the one hand and to simplify processing on the other hand. Our work has revealed a filler aggregation over time, well known as dynamic percolation. Conductivity has been modeled as a function of time and filler content from Kirkpatrick equation. The further use of an electrical field led to conductivity enhancement as well as a decrease in percolation threshold. Finally, a study of intrinsic parameters of matrix has shown a strong effect of viscosity and surface tension on nanotubes aggregation. Contribution to the topical issue "Electrical Engineering Symposium (SGE 2016)", edited by Adel Razek

Incorporation of iodine in polymeric microparticles and emulsions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolontaeva, Olga A.; Khokhlova, Anastasia R.; Markina, Natalia E.; Markin, Alexey V.; Burmistrova, Natalia A.

2016-04-01

Application of different methods for formation of microcontainers containing iodine is proposed in this paper. Two types of microcontainers: microemulsions and microparticles have been investigated, conditions and methods for obtaining microcontainers were optimized. Microparticles were formed by layer-by-layer method with cores of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as templates. Incorporation of complexes of iodine with polymers (chitosan, starch, polyvinyl alcohol) into core, shell and hollow capsules was investigated and loadings of microparticles with iodine were estimated. It was found that the complex of iodine with chitosan adsorbed at CaCO3 core is the most stable under physiological conditions and its value of loading can be 450 μg of I2 per 1 g of CaCO3. Moreover, chitosan was chosen as a ligand because of its biocompatibility and biodegradability as well as very low toxicity while its complex with iodine is very stable. A small amount of microparticles containing a iodine-chitosan complex can be used for prolonged release of iodine in the human body since iodine daily intake for adults is around 100 μg. "Oil-in-water" emulsions were prepared by ultrasonication of iodinated oils (sunflower and linseed) with sodium laurilsulfate (SLS) as surfactant solution. At optimal conditions, the homogenous emulsions remained stable for weeks, with total content of iodine in such emulsion being up to 1% (w/w). The oil:SLS ratio was equal to 1:10 (w/w), optimal duration and power of ultrasound exposure were 1.5 min and 7 W, correspondingly. Favorable application of iodized linseed oil for emulsion preparation with suitable oil microdroplets size was proved.

The feasibility and stability of large complex biological networks: a random matrix approach.

PubMed

Stone, Lewi

2018-05-29

In the 70's, Robert May demonstrated that complexity creates instability in generic models of ecological networks having random interaction matrices A. Similar random matrix models have since been applied in many disciplines. Central to assessing stability is the "circular law" since it describes the eigenvalue distribution for an important class of random matrices A. However, despite widespread adoption, the "circular law" does not apply for ecological systems in which density-dependence operates (i.e., where a species growth is determined by its density). Instead one needs to study the far more complicated eigenvalue distribution of the community matrix S = DA, where D is a diagonal matrix of population equilibrium values. Here we obtain this eigenvalue distribution. We show that if the random matrix A is locally stable, the community matrix S = DA will also be locally stable, providing the system is feasible (i.e., all species have positive equilibria D > 0). This helps explain why, unusually, nearly all feasible systems studied here are locally stable. Large complex systems may thus be even more fragile than May predicted, given the difficulty of assembling a feasible system. It was also found that the degree of stability, or resilience of a system, depended on the minimum equilibrium population.

Overcoming Matrix Effects in a Complex Sample: Analysis of Multiple Elements in Multivitamins by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arnold, Randy J.; Arndt, Brett; Blaser, Emilia; Blosser, Chris; Caulton, Dana; Chung, Won Sog; Fiorenza, Garrett; Heath, Wyatt; Jacobs, Alex; Kahng, Eunice; Koh, Eun; Le, Thao; Mandla, Kyle; McCory, Chelsey; Newman, Laura; Pithadia, Amit; Reckelhoff, Anna; Rheinhardt, Joseph; Skljarevski, Sonja; Stuart, Jordyn; Taylor, Cassie; Thomas, Scott; Tse, Kyle; Wall, Rachel; Warkentien, Chad

2011-01-01

A multivitamin tablet and liquid are analyzed for the elements calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, and manganese using atomic absorption spectrometry. Linear calibration and standard addition are used for all elements except calcium, allowing for an estimate of the matrix effects encountered for this complex sample. Sample preparation using…

Quantifying Complexity in Quantum Phase Transitions via Mutual Information Complex Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valdez, Marc Andrew; Jaschke, Daniel; Vargas, David L.; Carr, Lincoln D.

2017-12-01

We quantify the emergent complexity of quantum states near quantum critical points on regular 1D lattices, via complex network measures based on quantum mutual information as the adjacency matrix, in direct analogy to quantifying the complexity of electroencephalogram or functional magnetic resonance imaging measurements of the brain. Using matrix product state methods, we show that network density, clustering, disparity, and Pearson's correlation obtain the critical point for both quantum Ising and Bose-Hubbard models to a high degree of accuracy in finite-size scaling for three classes of quantum phase transitions, Z2, mean field superfluid to Mott insulator, and a Berzinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless crossover.

Effect of Gradual Heating and Fat/Oil Type on Fat Stability, Texture, Color, and Microstructure of Meat Batters.

PubMed

Barbut, S; Youssef, M K

2016-09-01

The effects of endpoint cooking temperature (40, 50, 60, 70, 80, and 90 °C) on emulsion stability, texture, color, and microstructure of meat batters prepared with different fats/oils were studied. Canola oil treatments showed the highest cooking loss whereas hydrogenated palm oil provided the most stable meat batters. Rendered beef fat was less stable than regular beef fat. Increasing endpoint cooking temperatures resulted in a progressive reduction of water holding capacity in all treatments. As temperature was raised, meat batters showed higher hardness and cohesiveness values, but no appreciable changes in cohesiveness above 60 °C. Canola and hydrogenated palm oil treatments showed the highest hardness and chewiness values. Lightness (L(*) ) values of all meat batters increased significantly with increasing temperature from 40 to 60 or 70 °C; no major changes observed above 70 °C. Light microscopy revealed no substantial changes in the microstructure of all the stable meat batters cooked to between 50 and 70 °C. Heating to 90 °C changed the microstructure in all meat batters except the hydrogenated palm oil treatments, which still showed nonround fat particles and a less aggregated protein matrix. © 2016 Institute of Food Technologists®

Influence of extraction techniques on physical-chemical characteristics and volatile compounds of extra virgin olive oil.

PubMed

Volpe, Maria Grazia; De Cunzo, Fausta; Siano, Francesco; Paolucci, Marina; Barbarisi, Costantina; Cammarota, Giancarlo

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate three types of extraction methods of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) from the same cultivar (Ortice olive cultivar): traditional or pressing (T) system, decanter centrifugation (DC) system and a patented horizontal axis decanter centrifugation (HADC) system. Oil samples were subjected to chemical analyses: free acidity, peroxide value, ultraviolet light absorption K232 and K270, total polyphenols, antioxidant capacity, volatile compounds and olfactory characteristics by electronic nose. The two centrifugation systems showed better free acidity and peroxides value but total polyphenol content was particularly high in extra virgin olive oil produced by patented HADC system. Same volatile substances that positively characterize the oil aroma were found in higher amount in the two centrifugation systems, although some differences have been detected between DC and HADC system, other were found in higher amount in extra virgin olive oil produced by T system. The electronic nose analysis confirmed these results, principal component analysis (PCA) and correlation matrix showed the major differences between EVOO produced by T and HADC system. Taken together the results showed that DC and HADC systems produce EVOO with better characteristics than T system and patented HADC is the best extraction system.

Determination of the herbicide fluroxypyr in oil matrices.

PubMed

Muhamad, Halimah B; Ai, Tan Yew; Sahid, Ismail B

2008-02-01

The purpose of this study was to develop a method for the determination of fluroxypyr (4-amino-3,5-dichloro-6-fluro2-pyridyloxyacetic acid) residue in palm oil namely crude palm oil (CPO) and crude palm kernel oil (CPKO). The method involves the extraction of the herbicide from the oil matrix followed by low temperature precipitation and finally quantification of the residues using the high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The extraction efficiency of the method was evaluated by conducting recovery studies. The recovery of fluroxypyr from the fortified CPO samples ranged from 78%-111% with the relative values for the coefficient of variation ranging from 1.4 to 8.6%. Furthermore, the recovery of fluroxypyr from the spiked CPKO samples ranged from 91-107% with the relative values for the coefficient of variation ranging from 0.6 to 4.5%. The minimum detection limit of fluroxypyr in CPO and CPKO was 0.05 microg/g. The method was used to determine fluroxypyr residues from the field-treated samples of CPO and CPKO. When fluroxypyr was used for weed control in oil palm plantations no residue was detected in CPO and CPKO irrespective of the sampling interval and the dosage applied at the recommended or double the manufacturer's recommended dosage.

Second-order standard addition for deconvolution and quantification of fatty acids of fish oil using GC-MS.

PubMed

Vosough, Maryam; Salemi, Amir

2007-08-15

In the present work two second-order calibration methods, generalized rank annihilation method (GRAM) and multivariate curve resolution-alternating least square (MCR-ALS) have been applied on standard addition data matrices obtained by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to characterize and quantify four unsaturated fatty acids cis-9-hexadecenoic acid (C16:1omega7c), cis-9-octadecenoic acid (C18:1omega9c), cis-11-eicosenoic acid (C20:1omega9) and cis-13-docosenoic acid (C22:1omega9) in fish oil considering matrix interferences. With these methods, the area does not need to be directly measured and predictions are more accurate. Because of non-trilinear conditions of GC-MS data matrices, at first MCR-ALS and GRAM have been used on uncorrected data matrices. In comparison to MCR-ALS, biased and imprecise concentrations (%R.S.D.=27.3) were obtained using GRAM without correcting the retention time-shift. As trilinearity is the essential requirement for implementing GRAM, the data need to be corrected. Multivariate rank alignment objectively corrects the run-to-run retention time variations between sample GC-MS data matrix and a standard addition GC-MS data matrix. Then, two second-order algorithms have been compared with each other. The above algorithms provided similar mean predictions, pure concentrations and spectral profiles. The results validated using standard mass spectra of target compounds. In addition, some of the quantification results were compared with the concentration values obtained using the selected mass chromatograms. As in the case of strong peak-overlap and the matrix effect, the classical univariate method of determination of the area of the peaks of the analytes will fail, the "second-order advantage" has solved this problem successfully.

Sea sand disruption method (SSDM) as a valuable tool for isolating essential oil components from conifers.

PubMed

Dawidowicz, Andrzej L; Czapczyńska, Natalia B

2011-11-01

Essential oils are one of nature's most precious gifts with surprisingly potent and outstanding properties. Coniferous oils, for instance, are nowadays being used extensively to treat or prevent many types of infections, modify immune responses, soothe inflammations, stabilize moods, and to help ease all forms of non-acute pain. Given the broad spectrum of usage of coniferous essential oils, a fast, safe, simple, and efficient sample-preparation method is needed in the estimation procedure of essential oil components in fresh plant material. Generally, the time- and energy-consuming steam distillation (SD) is applied for this purpose. This paper will compare SD, pressurized liquid extraction (PLE), matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD), and the sea sand disruption method (SSDM) as isolation techniques to obtain aroma components from Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), spruce (Picea abies), and Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). According to the obtained data, SSDM is the most efficient sample preparation method in determining the essential oil composition of conifers. Moreover, SSDM requires small organic solvent amounts and a short extraction time, which makes it an advantageous alternative procedure for the routine analysis of coniferous oils. The superiority of SSDM over MSPD efficiency is ascertained, as there are no chemical interactions between the plant cell components and the sand. This fact confirms the reliability and efficacy of SSDM for the analysis of volatile oil components. Copyright © 2011 Verlag Helvetica Chimica Acta AG, Zürich.

Effect of Binding Components in Complex Sample Matrices on Recovery in Direct Immersion Solid-Phase Microextraction: Friends or Foe?

PubMed

Alam, Md Nazmul; Pawliszyn, Janusz

2018-02-20

The development of matrix compatible coatings for solid-phase microextraction (SPME) has enabled direct extraction of analytes from complex sample matrices. The direct immersion (DI) mode of SPME when utilized in conjunction with such extraction phases facilitates extraction of a wide range of analytes from complex matrices without the incurrence of fouling or coating saturation. In this work, mathematical models and computational simulations were employed to investigate the effect of binding components present in complex samples on the recovery of small molecules varying in logP for extractions carried out using the direct immersion approach. The presented findings corroborate that the studied approach indeed enables the extraction of both polar and nonpolar analytes from complex matrices, provided a suitable sorbent is employed. Further results indicated that, in certain cases, the kinetics of extraction of a given analyte in its free form might be dependent on the desorption kinetics of their bound form from matrix components, which might lower total recoveries of analytes with high affinity for the matrix. However, the binding of analytes to matrix components also enables SPME to extract a balanced quantity of different logP analytes, facilitated by multiphase equilibria, with a single extraction device.

Optical implementation of systolic array processing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Caulfield, H. J.; Rhodes, W. T.; Foster, M. J.; Horvitz, S.

1981-01-01

Algorithms for matrix vector multiplication are implemented using acousto-optic cells for multiplication and input data transfer and using charge coupled devices detector arrays for accumulation and output of the results. No two dimensional matrix mask is required; matrix changes are implemented electronically. A system for multiplying a 50 component nonnegative real vector by a 50 by 50 nonnegative real matrix is described. Modifications for bipolar real and complex valued processing are possible, as are extensions to matrix-matrix multiplication and multiplication of a vector by multiple matrices.

Modification of aqueous enzymatic oil extraction to increase the yield of corn oil from dry fractionated corn germ

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

In previous aqueous enzymatic extraction experiments we reported an oil yield of 67 grams from 800 grams of dry fractionated corn germ. In the current experiments, a dispersion of 10% cooked, dry-fractionated germ in water and was treated with amylases and a cellulase complex. A foam fraction was s...

Three-dimensional Virtual Simulation of Oil Spill of Yangtze River in Chongqing Area Based on Emergency Decision

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Shuzhe; Huang, Liwen

the river of Yangtze River in Chongqing area is continuous curved. Hydrology and channel situation is complex, and the transportation is busy. With the increasing of shipments of hazardous chemicals year by year, oil spill accident risk is rising. So establishment of three-dimensional virtual simulation of oil spill and its application in decision-making has become an urgent task. This paper detailed the process of three-dimensional virtual simulation of oil spill and established a system of three-dimensional virtual Simulation of oil spill of Yangtze River in Chongqing area by establishing an oil spill model of the Chongqing area based on oil particles model, and the system has been used in emergency decision to provide assistance for the oil spill response.

Fractal Characteristics of Continental Shale Pores and its Significance to the Occurrence of Shale Oil in China: a Case Study of Biyang Depression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jijun; Liu, Zhao; Li, Junqian; Lu, Shuangfang; Zhang, Tongqian; Zhang, Xinwen; Yu, Zhiyuan; Huang, Kaizhan; Shen, Bojian; Ma, Yan; Liu, Jiewen

Samples from seven major exploration wells in Biyang Depression of Henan Oilfield were compared using low-temperature nitrogen adsorption and shale oil adsorption experiments. Comprehensive analysis of pore development, oiliness and shale oil flowability was conducted by combining fractal dimension. The results show that the fractal dimension of shale in Biyang Depression of Henan Oilfield was negatively correlated with the average pore size and positively correlated with the specific surface area. Compared with the large pore, the small pore has great fractal dimension, indicating the pore structure is more complicated. Using S1 and chloroform bitumen A to evaluate the relationship between shale oiliness and pore structure, it was found that the more heterogeneous the shale pore structure, the higher the complexity and the poorer the oiliness. Clay minerals are the main carriers involved in crude oil adsorption, affecting the mobility of shale oil. When the pore complexity of shale was high, the content of micro- and mesopores was high, and the high specific surface area could enhance the adsorption and reduce the mobility of shale oil.

The space-time structure of oil and gas field growth in a complex depositional system

USGS Publications Warehouse

Drew, L.J.; Mast, R.F.; Schuenemeyer, J.H.

1994-01-01

Shortly after the discovery of an oil and gas field, an initial estimate is usually made of the ultimate recovery of the field. With the passage of time, this initial estimate is almost always revised upward. The phenomenon of the growth of the expected ultimate recovery of a field, which is known as "field growth," is important to resource assessment analysts for several reasons. First, field growth is the source of a large part of future additions to the inventory of proved reserves of crude oil and natural gas in most petroliferous areas of the world. Second, field growth introduces a large negative bias in the forecast of the future rates of discovery of oil and gas fields made by discovery process models. In this study, the growth in estimated ultimate recovery of oil and gas in fields made up of sandstone reservoirs formed in a complex depositional environment (Frio strand plain exploration play) is examined. The results presented here show how the growth of oil and gas fields is tied directly to the architectural element of the shoreline processes and tectonics that caused the deposition of the individual sand bodies hosting the producible hydrocarbon. ?? 1994 Oxford University Press.

Complex Approach to Conceptual Design of Machine Mechanically Extracting Oil from Jatropha curcas L. Seeds for Biomass-Based Fuel Production

PubMed Central

Mašín, Ivan

2016-01-01

One of important sources of biomass-based fuel is Jatropha curcas L. Great attention is paid to the biofuel produced from the oil extracted from the Jatropha curcas L. seeds. A mechanised extraction is the most efficient and feasible method for oil extraction for small-scale farmers but there is a need to extract oil in more efficient manner which would increase the labour productivity, decrease production costs, and increase benefits of small-scale farmers. On the other hand innovators should be aware that further machines development is possible only when applying the systematic approach and design methodology in all stages of engineering design. Systematic approach in this case means that designers and development engineers rigorously apply scientific knowledge, integrate different constraints and user priorities, carefully plan product and activities, and systematically solve technical problems. This paper therefore deals with the complex approach to design specification determining that can bring new innovative concepts to design of mechanical machines for oil extraction. The presented case study as the main part of the paper is focused on new concept of screw of machine mechanically extracting oil from Jatropha curcas L. seeds. PMID:27668259

Modeling cometary photopolarimetric characteristics with Sh-matrix method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolokolova, L.; Petrov, D.

2017-12-01

Cometary dust is dominated by particles of complex shape and structure, which are often considered as fractal aggregates. Rigorous modeling of light scattering by such particles, even using parallelized codes and NASA supercomputer resources, is very computer time and memory consuming. We are presenting a new approach to modeling cometary dust that is based on the Sh-matrix technique (e.g., Petrov et al., JQSRT, 112, 2012). This method is based on the T-matrix technique (e.g., Mishchenko et al., JQSRT, 55, 1996) and was developed after it had been found that the shape-dependent factors could be separated from the size- and refractive-index-dependent factors and presented as a shape matrix, or Sh-matrix. Size and refractive index dependences are incorporated through analytical operations on the Sh-matrix to produce the elements of T-matrix. Sh-matrix method keeps all advantages of the T-matrix method, including analytical averaging over particle orientation. Moreover, the surface integrals describing the Sh-matrix elements themselves can be solvable analytically for particles of any shape. This makes Sh-matrix approach an effective technique to simulate light scattering by particles of complex shape and surface structure. In this paper, we present cometary dust as an ensemble of Gaussian random particles. The shape of these particles is described by a log-normal distribution of their radius length and direction (Muinonen, EMP, 72, 1996). Changing one of the parameters of this distribution, the correlation angle, from 0 to 90 deg., we can model a variety of particles from spheres to particles of a random complex shape. We survey the angular and spectral dependencies of intensity and polarization resulted from light scattering by such particles, studying how they depend on the particle shape, size, and composition (including porous particles to simulate aggregates) to find the best fit to the cometary observations.

Determination of glycerol in oils and fats using liquid chromatography chloride attachment electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Jin, Chunfen; Viidanoja, Jyrki

2017-01-15

Existing liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry method for the analysis of short chain carboxylic acids was expanded and validated to cover also the measurement of glycerol from oils and fats. The method employs chloride anion attachment and two ions, [glycerol+ 35 Cl] - and [glycerol+ 37 Cl] - , as alternative quantifiers for improved selectivity of glycerol measurement. The averaged within run precision, between run precision and accuracy ranged between 0.3-7%, 0.4-6% and 94-99%, respectively, depending on the analyte ion and sample matrix. Selected renewable diesel feedstocks were analyzed with the method. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

New polyurethane nanocomposites based on soya oil.

PubMed

Mohammed, Issam Ahmed; Abd Khadir, Nurul Khizrien; Jaffar Al-Mulla, Emad Abbas

2014-01-01

New polyurethane (PU) nanocomposites were prepared from a dispersion of 0 - 5% montmorillonite (MMT) clay with isocyanate and soya oil polyol that was synthesized via transesterification of triglycerides to reduce petroleum dependence. FT-IR spectra indicate the presence of hydrogen bonding between nanoclay and the polymer matrix, whereas the exfoliated structure of clay layers was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Optical microscopy, mechanical and thermal analyses were done to investigate significant improvement of the nanocomposites. The results showed PU-3% nanoclay (NC) showed optimum results in mechanical properties such as tensile and flexural strength but the lowest in impact strength.

Accidental versus operational oil spills from shipping in the Baltic Sea: risk governance and management strategies.

PubMed

Hassler, Björn

2011-03-01

Marine governance of oil transportation is complex. Due to difficulties in effectively monitoring procedures on vessels en voyage, incentives to save costs by not following established regulations on issues such as cleaning of tanks, crew size, and safe navigation may be substantial. The issue of problem structure is placed in focus, that is, to what degree the specific characteristics and complexity of intentional versus accidental oil spill risks affect institutional responses. It is shown that whereas the risk of accidental oil spills primarily has been met by technical requirements on the vessels in combination with Port State control, attempts have been made to curb intentional pollution by for example increased surveillance and smart governance mechanisms such as the No-Special-Fee system. It is suggested that environmental safety could be improved by increased use of smart governance mechanisms tightly adapted to key actors' incentives to alter behavior in preferable directions.

Moisture Sensitivity, Optical, Mechanical and Structural Properties of Whey Protein-Based Edible Films Incorporated with Rapeseed Oil.

PubMed

Galus, Sabina; Kadzińska, Justyna

2016-03-01

The objective of this work is to study the effect of the rapeseed oil content on the physical properties of whey protein emulsion films. For this purpose, whey protein films with the addition of 0, 1, 2 and 3% of rapeseed oil, and glycerol as a plasticizer were obtained by the casting method. Film-forming emulsions were evaluated and compared using light scattering granulometry. The Sauter mean diameters ( d 32 ) of lipid droplets in film-forming solutions showed an increasing trend when increasing the oil volume fractions. The inclusion of rapeseed oil enhanced the hydrophobic character of whey protein films, reducing moisture content and film solubility in water. All emulsified films showed high lightness ( L* ≈90). Parameter a * decreased and parameter b* and total colour difference (∆ E ) increased with the increase of the volume fractions of oil. These results were consistent with visual observations; control films were transparent and those containing oil opaque. Water vapour sorption experimental data at the full range of water activity values from 0.11 to 0.93 were well described with Peleg's equation (R 2 ≥0.99). The tensile strength, Young's modulus and elongation at break increased with the increase of rapeseed oil volume fraction, which could be explained by interactions between lipids and the protein matrix. These results revealed that rapeseed oil has enormous potential to be incorporated into whey protein to make edible film or coating for some food products. The mechanical resistance decreased with the addition of the lipids, and the opacity and soluble matter content increased.

Deepwater Horizon oil in Gulf of Mexico waters after 2 years: transformation into the dissolved organic matter pool.

PubMed

Bianchi, Thomas S; Osburn, Christopher; Shields, Michael R; Yvon-Lewis, Shari; Young, Jordan; Guo, Laodong; Zhou, Zhengzhen

2014-08-19

Recent work has shown the presence of anomalous dissolved organic matter (DOM), with high optical yields, in deep waters 15 months after the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM). Here, we continue to use the fluorescence excitation-emission matrix (EEM) technique coupled with parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) modeling, measurements of bulk organic carbon, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), oil indices, and other optical properties to examine the chemical evolution and transformation of oil components derived from the DWH in the water column of the GOM. Seawater samples were collected from the GOM during July 2012, 2 years after the oil spill. This study shows that, while dissolved organic carbon (DOC) values have decreased since just after the DWH spill, they remain higher at some stations than typical deep-water values for the GOM. Moreover, we continue to observe fluorescent DOM components in deep waters, similar to those of degraded oil observed in lab and field experiments, which suggest that oil-related fluorescence signatures, as part of the DOM pool, have persisted for 2 years in the deep waters. This supports the notion that some oil-derived chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) components could still be identified in deep waters after 2 years of degradation, which is further supported by the lower DIC and partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) associated with greater amounts of these oil-derived components in deep waters, assuming microbial activity on DOM in the current water masses is only the controlling factor of DIC and pCO2 concentrations.

Folic acid and safflower oil supplementation interacts and protects embryos from maternal diabetes-induced damage.

PubMed

Higa, R; Kurtz, M; Mazzucco, M B; Musikant, D; White, V; Jawerbaum, A

2012-05-01

Maternal diabetes increases the risk of embryo malformations. Folic acid and safflower oil supplementations have been shown to reduce embryo malformations in experimental models of diabetes. In this study we here tested whether folic acid and safflower oil supplementations interact to prevent embryo malformations in diabetic rats, and analyzed whether they act through the regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), their endogenous inhibitors (TIMPs), and nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species production. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin administration prior to mating. From Day 0.5 of pregnancy, rats did or did not receive folic acid (15 mg/kg) and/or a 6% safflower oil-supplemented diet. Embryos and decidua were explanted on Day 10.5 of gestation for further analysis of embryo resorptions and malformations, MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 levels, NO production and lipid peroxidation. Maternal diabetes induced resorptions and malformations that were prevented by folic acid and safflower oil supplementation. MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities were increased in embryos and decidua from diabetic rats and decreased with safflower oil and folic acid supplementations. In diabetic animals, the embryonic and decidual TIMPs were increased mainly with safflower oil supplementation in decidua and with folic acid in embryos. NO overproduction was decreased in decidua from diabetic rats treated with folic acid alone and in combination with safflower oil. These treatments also prevented increases in embryonic and decidual lipid peroxidation. In conclusion, folic acid and safflower oil supplementations interact and protect the embryos from diabetes-induced damage through several pathways related to a decrease in pro-inflammatory mediators.

In Vitro Evaluation of the Antioxidant, Cytoprotective, and Antimicrobial Properties of Essential Oil from Pistacia vera L. Variety Bronte Hull

PubMed Central

Smeriglio, Antonella; Denaro, Marcella; Barreca, Davide; Calderaro, Antonella; Bisignano, Carlo; Ginestra, Giovanna; Bellocco, Ersilia; Trombetta, Domenico

2017-01-01

Although the chemical composition and biological properties of some species of the genus Pistacia has been investigated, studies on hull essential oil of Pistacia vera L. variety Bronte (HEO) are currently lacking. In this work, we have carried out an in-depth phytochemical profile elucidation by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, and an evaluation of antioxidant scavenging properties of HEO, using several different in vitro methods, checking also its cytoprotective potential on lymphocytes treated with tert-butyl hydroperoxide. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, both American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) and clinical isolates, was also investigated. GC-MS analysis highlighted the richness of this complex matrix, with the identification of 40 derivatives. The major components identified were 4-Carene (31.743%), α-Pinene (23.584%), d-Limonene (8.002%), and 3-Carene (7.731%). The HEO showed a strong iron chelating activity and was found to be markedly active against hydroxyl radical, while scarce effects were found against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical. Moreover, pre-treatment with HEO was observed to significantly increase the cell viability, decreasing the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. HEO was bactericidal against all the tested strains at the concentration of 7.11 mg/mL, with the exception of Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027. The obtained results demonstrate the strong free-radical scavenging activity of HEO along with remarkable cytoprotective and antimicrobial properties. PMID:28587291

In Vitro Evaluation of the Antioxidant, Cytoprotective, and Antimicrobial Properties of Essential Oil from Pistacia vera L. Variety Bronte Hull.

PubMed

Smeriglio, Antonella; Denaro, Marcella; Barreca, Davide; Calderaro, Antonella; Bisignano, Carlo; Ginestra, Giovanna; Bellocco, Ersilia; Trombetta, Domenico

2017-06-06

Although the chemical composition and biological properties of some species of the genus Pistacia has been investigated, studies on hull essential oil of Pistacia vera L. variety Bronte (HEO) are currently lacking. In this work, we have carried out an in-depth phytochemical profile elucidation by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis, and an evaluation of antioxidant scavenging properties of HEO, using several different in vitro methods, checking also its cytoprotective potential on lymphocytes treated with tert-butyl hydroperoxide. Moreover, the antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, both American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) and clinical isolates, was also investigated. GC-MS analysis highlighted the richness of this complex matrix, with the identification of 40 derivatives. The major components identified were 4-Carene (31.743%), α-Pinene (23.584%), d-Limonene (8.002%), and 3-Carene (7.731%). The HEO showed a strong iron chelating activity and was found to be markedly active against hydroxyl radical, while scarce effects were found against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical. Moreover, pre-treatment with HEO was observed to significantly increase the cell viability, decreasing the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. HEO was bactericidal against all the tested strains at the concentration of 7.11 mg/mL, with the exception of Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027. The obtained results demonstrate the strong free-radical scavenging activity of HEO along with remarkable cytoprotective and antimicrobial properties.

Quantification of appetite suppressing steroid glycosides from Hoodia gordonii in dried plant material, purified extracts and food products using HPLC-UV and HPLC-MS methods.

PubMed

Janssen, Hans-Gerd; Swindells, Chris; Gunning, Philip; Wang, Weijun; Grün, Christian; Mahabir, Krishna; Maharaj, Vinesh J; Apps, Peter J

2008-06-09

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-UV and HPLC-Mass Spectrometry (MS) methods were developed for the quantitative analysis of the family of Hoodia gordonii steroid glycosides with appetite suppressing properties in dried plant material, in purified and enriched extracts and in various prototype food-products fortified with H. gordonii extracts. For solid materials, e.g. dried plants or for non-fatty foods, extraction of the steroid glycosides is performed using methanol. For products where the steroid glycosides are present in an oil matrix, direct injection of the oil after dilution in tetrahydrofuran is applied. The HPLC separation is performed on an octyl-modified reversed-phase column in the gradient mode with UV detection at lambda = 220 nm. Quantification is performed against an external calibration line prepared using either one of the pure steroid glycosides or geranyl-tiglate. Short- and long-term repeatabilities of the methods are better than 3 and 6%, respectively. Recoveries are better than 85%, even in the analysis of the least abundant steroid glycosides in a complex yoghurt drink. Linearity is better than 3-4 orders of magnitude and the detection limits are below approximately 2 microg g(-1) for the individual steroid glycosides in dried plant material and food products. HPLC-MS is used to confirm that the steroid glycosides contain the characteristic steroid core, the carbohydrate chain and the tigloyl group.

Carbon nanotubes/fluorinated polymers nanocomposite thin films for electrical contacts lubrication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benedetto, A.; Viel, P.; Noël, S.; Izard, N.; Chenevier, P.; Palacin, S.

2007-09-01

The need to operate in extreme environmental conditions (ultra high vacuum, high temperatures, aerospatial environment, …) and the miniaturization toward micro electromechanical systems is demanding new materials in the field of low-level electrical contacts lubrication. Dry and chemically immobilized lubrication is expected to be an alternative to the traditional wet lubricants oils. With the goal to conciliate electrical conductivity and lubricant properties we designed nanocomposite thin films composed of a 2D carbon nanotubes network embedded in an organic matrix. The nanotubes networks were deposited on gold surfaces modified by electrochemical cathodic grafting of poly(acrylonitrile). The same substrate served for covalently bonding the low-friction organic matrix. Three different matrixes were tested: a perfluorinated oligomer chemically grafted and two different polyfluorinated acrylates electrochemically grafted. The nanocomposite thin films have been characterized by ATR FT-IR, XPS and Raman spectroscopy. We measured the effects of the different matrixes and the nanotubes addition on the tribological properties and on the contact resistances of the films.

On complex matrices with simple spectrum that are unitarily similar to real matrices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ikramov, Khakim D.

2011-04-01

Suppose that one should verify whether a given complex n × n matrix can be converted into a real matrix by a unitary similarity transformation. Sufficient conditions for this property to hold were found in an earlier publication of this author. These conditions are relaxed in the following way: as before, the spectrum is required to be simple, but pairs of complex conjugate eigenvalues λ ,bar λ are now allowed. However, the eigenvectors corresponding to such eigenvalues must not be orthogonal.

Variation of brine compositions resulting from flow from matrix or fracture permeability, investigated by high pressure laboratory experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poszwa, A. C.; Coleman, M. L.; Pouya, A.; Ader, M.; Bounenni, A.

2003-04-01

Planning oil production from a chalk reservoir oilfield is difficult because the matrix usually has low permeability despite its high porosity. Most oil is thought to come from fracture porosity but the matrix contribution should increase as compaction occurs during production. To better understand the respective contributions from matrix and fracture, we studied the geochemical characteristics of fluids using high-pressure brine flow experiments on chalk cores. During the experiment axial load was changed relative to confining pressure to induce fractures and to close them again. We used chlorine stable isotope variations to study fluid pathway, because chlorine is a chemically conservative element in sedimentary systems and its isotopes fractionate only with physical processes like diffusion or adsorption that could occur mainly in the chalk matrix. A first experiment was performed on a very porous chalk from Henley (on-shore UK) and using a low-salinity brine. Large variations of brine Cl isotope composition were observed (from -0.56 to +0.08 per mil). The variations were correlated positively with the brine flux through the chalk and the permeability of the rock, both parameters controlled by the rock fracturing. A second experiment used brine with salinity similar to that of seawater. In this case, chemical and isotopic variations were not significant. From the beginning, the chalk structure seems to have been destroyed very quickly (induced fracture porosity collapsed) possibly because of the fluid nature, so that whatever pressure was applied, the permeability did not change significantly. Using Valhall reservoir chalk (offshore Norwegian North Sea) and fluid half the salinity of seawater in a third experiment, we obtained a large range of permeabilities. Brine isotopic trends were very similar on average to those of the first experiment even though variations were smaller (Cl isotopes from -0.09 to +0.29 per mil) and not significantly correlated simply to permeability values. The highest isotopic values were in brine flowed through chalk when the permeability was high and fractures opened; the lowest values were in brine flowed through the chalk when its permeability was reduced by closing fractures and increasing the relative contribution from matrix flow where diffusion processes fractionated chlorine isotopes. From this work it seems that the relative contributions from fracture and matrix permeability in reservoirs can be estimated from the geochemical compositions of brines that flowed from them.

In vitro effects of citrus oils against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and non-tuberculous Mycobacteria of clinical importance.

PubMed

Crandall, Philip G; Ricke, Steven C; O'Bryan, Corliss A; Parrish, Nicole M

2012-01-01

We evaluated the in vitro activity of citrus oils against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and other non-tuberculous Mycobacterium species. Citrus essential oils were tested against a variety of Mycobacterium species and strains using the BACTEC radiometric growth system. Cold pressed terpeneless Valencia oil (CPT) was further tested using the Wayne model of in vitro latency. Exposure of M. tuberculosis and M. bovis BCG to 0.025 % cold pressed terpeneless Valencia orange oil (CPT) resulted in a 3-log decrease in viable counts versus corresponding controls. Inhibition of various clinical isolates of the M. avium complex and M. abscessus ranged from 2.5 to 5.2-logs. Some species/strains were completely inhibited in the presence of CPT including one isolate each of the following: the M. avium complex, M. chelonae and M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis. CPT also inhibited the growth of BCG more than 99 % in an in vitro model of latency which mimics anaerobic dormancy thought to occur in vivo. The activity of CPT against drug-resistant strains of the M. avium complex and M. abscessus suggest that the mechanism of action for CPT is different than that of currently available drugs. Inhibition of latently adapted bacilli offers promise for treatment of latent infections of MTB. These results suggest that the antimycobacterial properties of CPT warrant further study to elucidate the specific mechanism of action and clarify the spectrum of activity.

Direct pore-scale reactive transport modelling of dynamic wettability changes induced by surface complexation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maes, Julien; Geiger, Sebastian

2018-01-01

Laboratory experiments have shown that oil production from sandstone and carbonate reservoirs by waterflooding could be significantly increased by manipulating the composition of the injected water (e.g. by lowering the ionic strength). Recent studies suggest that a change of wettability induced by a change in surface charge is likely to be one of the driving mechanism of the so-called low-salinity effect. In this case, the potential increase of oil recovery during waterflooding at low ionic strength would be strongly impacted by the inter-relations between flow, transport and chemical reaction at the pore-scale. Hence, a new numerical model that includes two-phase flow, solute reactive transport and wettability alteration is implemented based on the Direct Numerical Simulation of the Navier-Stokes equations and surface complexation modelling. Our model is first used to match experimental results of oil droplet detachment from clay patches. We then study the effect of wettability change on the pore-scale displacement for simple 2D calcite micro-models and evaluate the impact of several parameters such as water composition and injected velocity. Finally, we repeat the simulation experiments on a larger and more complex pore geometry representing a carbonate rock. Our simulations highlight two different effects of low-salinity on oil production from carbonate rocks: a smaller number of oil clusters left in the pores after invasion, and a greater number of pores invaded.

The Calvin impact crater and its associated oil production, Cass County, Michigan

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Milstein, R.L.

1996-01-01

The Calvin impact crater is an isolated, nearly circular subsurface structure of Late Ordovician age in southwestern Michigan. The crater is defined by 110 oil and gas test wells, has a diameter of 6.2 km, and consists of a central dome exhibiting 415 m of structural uplift, an annular depression, and an encircling anticlinal rim. Exploration and development of three Devonian oil fields associated wit this structure provide all available subsurface data. All oil production is from the Middle Devonian Traverse Limestone, with the exception of one well producing from the Middle Devonian Sylvania Sandstone. This study models the grossmore » morphology of the Calvin structure using multiple tools and compares the results to known impact craters. Combined results of reflection seismic, gravity, magnetic, and resistivity data, as well as organized relationships between stratigraphic displacement and structural diameters observed in complex impact craters, suggest the Calvin structure is morphologically similar to recognized complex impact craters in sedimentary targets. In addition, individual quartz grains recovered from the Calvin structure exhibit decorated shock lamellae, Boehm lamellae, rhombohederal cleavage, and radiating concussion fractures. Based on the available data, I conclude the Calvin structure is a buried complex impact crater and that the trapping and reservoir characteristics of the associated Calvin 20, Juno Lake, and Calvin 28 oil fields are resultant of the craters morphology.« less

The Calvin impact crater and its associated oil production, Cass County, Michigan

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Milstein, R.L.

1996-12-31

The Calvin impact crater is an isolated, nearly circular subsurface structure of Late Ordovician age in southwestern Michigan. The crater is defined by 110 oil and gas test wells, has a diameter of 6.2 km, and consists of a central dome exhibiting 415 m of structural uplift, an annular depression, and an encircling anticlinal rim. Exploration and development of three Devonian oil fields associated wit this structure provide all available subsurface data. All oil production is from the Middle Devonian Traverse Limestone, with the exception of one well producing from the Middle Devonian Sylvania Sandstone. This study models the grossmore » morphology of the Calvin structure using multiple tools and compares the results to known impact craters. Combined results of reflection seismic, gravity, magnetic, and resistivity data, as well as organized relationships between stratigraphic displacement and structural diameters observed in complex impact craters, suggest the Calvin structure is morphologically similar to recognized complex impact craters in sedimentary targets. In addition, individual quartz grains recovered from the Calvin structure exhibit decorated shock lamellae, Boehm lamellae, rhombohederal cleavage, and radiating concussion fractures. Based on the available data, I conclude the Calvin structure is a buried complex impact crater and that the trapping and reservoir characteristics of the associated Calvin 20, Juno Lake, and Calvin 28 oil fields are resultant of the craters morphology.« less

Complex conductivity of oil-contaminated clayey soils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Yaping; Shi, Xiaoqing; Revil, André; Wu, Jichun; Ghorbani, A.

2018-06-01

Spectral induced polarization (SIP) is considered as a promising tool in environmental investigations. However, few works have done regarding the electrical signature of oil contamination of clayey soils upon induced polarization. Laboratory column experiments plus one sandbox experiment are conducted in this study to investigate the performances of the SIP method in oil-contaminated soils. First, a total of 12 soils are investigated to reveal the influences of water and soil properties on the saturation dependence of the complex conductivity below 100 Hz. Results show that the magnitude of the complex conductivity consistently decreases with decreasing water saturation for all soils samples. The saturation n and quadrature conductivity p exponents tend to increase slightly with increasing water salinity when using a linear conductivity model. The saturation exponent increases marginally with the cation exchange capacity (CEC) and the specific surface area (Ssp) while the quadrature conductivity exponent exhibits a relatively stronger dependence on both CEC and Ssp. For the low CEC soil samples (normally ≤10 meq/100 g), the quadrature conductivity exponent p correlates well with the saturation exponent n using the relationship p = n-1. SIP method is further applied in a sandbox experiment to estimate the saturation distribution and total volume of the oil. Results demonstrate that the SIP method has a great potential for mapping the organic contaminant plume and quantifying the oil volume.

Enrichment of refined olive oil with phenolic compounds: evaluation of their antioxidant activity and their effect on the bitter index.

PubMed

Artajo, Luz S; Romero, María P; Morelló, José R; Motilva, María J

2006-08-09

The study of the antioxidant effects of biophenolic compounds is supported by the current interest in natural products and the ongoing replacement of synthetic antioxidants by natural antioxidants from plant sources. Olives and olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, contain a variety of bioactive compounds (phytochemicals) widely considered to be potentially beneficial for health. This research was focused on evaluating the antioxidant activity of the enriched refined olive oil to discover a possible functional food application. Different concentrations of individual and combined phenolic compounds were added to the refined olive oil as lipid matrix, and the antioxidant activity expressed as oxidative stability in hours was determined by using the Rancimat method. Additionally, the bitter index was evaluated to assess the effect of the enrichment in relation to the organoleptic quality. The results showed that the antioxidant activity depends on the concentration of the phenol used for the assay and the chemical structure. In general, the most positive effects were observed in 3,4-dihydroxy and 3,4,5-trihydroxy structures linked to an aromatic ring that conferred to the moiety a higher proton dislocation, thus facilitating the scavenging activity.

Introduction to the Special Issue: Application of Essential Oils in Food Systems.

PubMed

Fernández-López, Juana; Viuda-Martos, Manuel

2018-04-05

Essential oils have received increasing attention as natural additives for the shelf-life extension of food products due to the risk in using synthetic preservatives. Synthetic additives can reduce food spoilage, but the present generation is very health conscious and believes in natural products rather than synthetic ones due to their potential toxicity and other concerns. Therefore, one of the major emerging technologies is the extraction of essential oils from several plant organs and their application to foods. Essential oils are a good source of several bioactive compounds, which possess antioxidative and antimicrobial properties, so their use can be very useful to extend shelf-life in food products. Although essential oils have been shown to be promising alternative to chemical preservatives, they present special limitations that must be solved before their application in food systems. Low water solubility, high volatility, and strong odor are the main properties that make it difficult for food applications. Recent advances that refer to new forms of application to avoid these problems are currently under study. Their application into packaging materials and coated films but also directly into the food matrix as emulsions, nanoemulsions, and coating are some of their new applications among others.

Introduction to the Special Issue: Application of Essential Oils in Food Systems

PubMed Central

Fernández-López, Juana

2018-01-01

Essential oils have received increasing attention as natural additives for the shelf-life extension of food products due to the risk in using synthetic preservatives. Synthetic additives can reduce food spoilage, but the present generation is very health conscious and believes in natural products rather than synthetic ones due to their potential toxicity and other concerns. Therefore, one of the major emerging technologies is the extraction of essential oils from several plant organs and their application to foods. Essential oils are a good source of several bioactive compounds, which possess antioxidative and antimicrobial properties, so their use can be very useful to extend shelf-life in food products. Although essential oils have been shown to be promising alternative to chemical preservatives, they present special limitations that must be solved before their application in food systems. Low water solubility, high volatility, and strong odor are the main properties that make it difficult for food applications. Recent advances that refer to new forms of application to avoid these problems are currently under study. Their application into packaging materials and coated films but also directly into the food matrix as emulsions, nanoemulsions, and coating are some of their new applications among others. PMID:29621143

Isotope dilution gas chromatography with mass spectrometry for the analysis of 4-octyl phenol, 4-nonylphenol, and bisphenol A in vegetable oils.

PubMed

Wu, Pinggu; Zhang, Liqun; Yang, Dajin; Zhang, Jing; Hu, Zhengyan; Wang, Liyuan; Ma, Bingjie

2016-03-01

By the combination of solid-phase extraction as well as isotope dilution gas chromatography with mass spectrometry, a sensitive and reliable method for the determination of endocrine-disrupting chemicals including bisphenol A, 4-octylphenol, and 4-nonylphenol in vegetable oils was established. The application of a silica/N-(n-propyl)ethylenediamine mixed solid-phase extraction cartridge achieved relatively low matrix effects for bisphenol A, 4-octylphenol, and 4-nonylphenol in vegetable oils. Experiments were designed to evaluate the effects of derivatization, and the extraction parameters were optimized. The estimated limits of detection and quantification for bisphenol A, 4-octylphenol, and 4-nonylphenol were 0.83 and 2.5 μg/kg, respectively. In a spiked experiment in vegetable oils, the recovery of the added bisphenol A was 97.5-110.3%, recovery of the added 4-octylphenol was 64.4-87.4%, and that of 4-nonylphenol was 68.2-89.3%. This sensitive method was then applied to real vegetable oil samples from Zhejiang Province of China, and none of the target compounds were detected. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

The peroxisomal AAA ATPase complex prevents pexophagy and development of peroxisome biogenesis disorders

PubMed Central

Law, Kelsey B.; Bronte-Tinkew, Dana; Di Pietro, Erminia; Snowden, Ann; Jones, Richard O.; Moser, Ann; Brumell, John H.; Braverman, Nancy

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBDs) are metabolic disorders caused by the loss of peroxisomes. The majority of PBDs result from mutation in one of 3 genes that encode for the peroxisomal AAA ATPase complex (AAA-complex) required for cycling PEX5 for peroxisomal matrix protein import. Mutations in these genes are thought to result in a defect in peroxisome assembly by preventing the import of matrix proteins. However, we show here that loss of the AAA-complex does not prevent matrix protein import, but instead causes an upregulation of peroxisome degradation by macroautophagy, or pexophagy. The loss of AAA-complex function in cells results in the accumulation of ubiquitinated PEX5 on the peroxisomal membrane that signals pexophagy. Inhibiting autophagy by genetic or pharmacological approaches rescues peroxisome number, protein import and function. Our findings suggest that the peroxisomal AAA-complex is required for peroxisome quality control, whereas its absence results in the selective degradation of the peroxisome. Thus the loss of peroxisomes in PBD patients with mutations in their peroxisomal AAA-complex is a result of increased pexophagy. Our study also provides a framework for the development of novel therapeutic treatments for PBDs. PMID:28521612

The peroxisomal AAA ATPase complex prevents pexophagy and development of peroxisome biogenesis disorders.

PubMed

Law, Kelsey B; Bronte-Tinkew, Dana; Di Pietro, Erminia; Snowden, Ann; Jones, Richard O; Moser, Ann; Brumell, John H; Braverman, Nancy; Kim, Peter K

2017-05-04

Peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBDs) are metabolic disorders caused by the loss of peroxisomes. The majority of PBDs result from mutation in one of 3 genes that encode for the peroxisomal AAA ATPase complex (AAA-complex) required for cycling PEX5 for peroxisomal matrix protein import. Mutations in these genes are thought to result in a defect in peroxisome assembly by preventing the import of matrix proteins. However, we show here that loss of the AAA-complex does not prevent matrix protein import, but instead causes an upregulation of peroxisome degradation by macroautophagy, or pexophagy. The loss of AAA-complex function in cells results in the accumulation of ubiquitinated PEX5 on the peroxisomal membrane that signals pexophagy. Inhibiting autophagy by genetic or pharmacological approaches rescues peroxisome number, protein import and function. Our findings suggest that the peroxisomal AAA-complex is required for peroxisome quality control, whereas its absence results in the selective degradation of the peroxisome. Thus the loss of peroxisomes in PBD patients with mutations in their peroxisomal AAA-complex is a result of increased pexophagy. Our study also provides a framework for the development of novel therapeutic treatments for PBDs.

Designing Hyperchaotic Cat Maps With Any Desired Number of Positive Lyapunov Exponents.

PubMed

Hua, Zhongyun; Yi, Shuang; Zhou, Yicong; Li, Chengqing; Wu, Yue

2018-02-01

Generating chaotic maps with expected dynamics of users is a challenging topic. Utilizing the inherent relation between the Lyapunov exponents (LEs) of the Cat map and its associated Cat matrix, this paper proposes a simple but efficient method to construct an -dimensional ( -D) hyperchaotic Cat map (HCM) with any desired number of positive LEs. The method first generates two basic -D Cat matrices iteratively and then constructs the final -D Cat matrix by performing similarity transformation on one basic -D Cat matrix by the other. Given any number of positive LEs, it can generate an -D HCM with desired hyperchaotic complexity. Two illustrative examples of -D HCMs were constructed to show the effectiveness of the proposed method, and to verify the inherent relation between the LEs and Cat matrix. Theoretical analysis proves that the parameter space of the generated HCM is very large. Performance evaluations show that, compared with existing methods, the proposed method can construct -D HCMs with lower computation complexity and their outputs demonstrate strong randomness and complex ergodicity.

Hardware Implementation of a MIMO Decoder Using Matrix Factorization Based Channel Estimation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Islam, Mohammad Tariqul; Numan, Mostafa Wasiuddin; Misran, Norbahiah; Ali, Mohd Alauddin Mohd; Singh, Mandeep

2011-05-01

This paper presents an efficient hardware realization of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) wireless communication decoder that utilizes the available resources by adopting the technique of parallelism. The hardware is designed and implemented on Xilinx Virtex™-4 XC4VLX60 field programmable gate arrays (FPGA) device in a modular approach which simplifies and eases hardware update, and facilitates testing of the various modules independently. The decoder involves a proficient channel estimation module that employs matrix factorization on least squares (LS) estimation to reduce a full rank matrix into a simpler form in order to eliminate matrix inversion. This results in performance improvement and complexity reduction of the MIMO system. Performance evaluation of the proposed method is validated through MATLAB simulations which indicate 2 dB improvement in terms of SNR compared to LS estimation. Moreover complexity comparison is performed in terms of mathematical operations, which shows that the proposed approach appreciably outperforms LS estimation at a lower complexity and represents a good solution for channel estimation technique.

Escherichia coli Biofilms Have an Organized and Complex Extracellular Matrix Structure

PubMed Central

Hung, Chia; Zhou, Yizhou; Pinkner, Jerome S.; Dodson, Karen W.; Crowley, Jan R.; Heuser, John; Chapman, Matthew R.; Hadjifrangiskou, Maria; Henderson, Jeffrey P.; Hultgren, Scott J.

2013-01-01

ABSTRACT Bacterial biofilms are ubiquitous in nature, and their resilience is derived in part from a complex extracellular matrix that can be tailored to meet environmental demands. Although common developmental stages leading to biofilm formation have been described, how the extracellular components are organized to allow three-dimensional biofilm development is not well understood. Here we show that uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) strains produce a biofilm with a highly ordered and complex extracellular matrix (ECM). We used electron microscopy (EM) techniques to image floating biofilms (pellicles) formed by UPEC. EM revealed intricately constructed substructures within the ECM that encase individual, spatially segregated bacteria with a distinctive morphology. Mutational and biochemical analyses of these biofilms confirmed curli as a major matrix component and revealed important roles for cellulose, flagella, and type 1 pili in pellicle integrity and ECM infrastructure. Collectively, the findings of this study elucidated that UPEC pellicles have a highly organized ultrastructure that varies spatially across the multicellular community. PMID:24023384

Complex network analysis of resting-state fMRI of the brain.

PubMed

Anwar, Abdul Rauf; Hashmy, Muhammad Yousaf; Imran, Bilal; Riaz, Muhammad Hussnain; Mehdi, Sabtain Muhammad Muntazir; Muthalib, Makii; Perrey, Stephane; Deuschl, Gunther; Groppa, Sergiu; Muthuraman, Muthuraman

2016-08-01

Due to the fact that the brain activity hardly ever diminishes in healthy individuals, analysis of resting state functionality of the brain seems pertinent. Various resting state networks are active inside the idle brain at any time. Based on various neuro-imaging studies, it is understood that various structurally distant regions of the brain could be functionally connected. Regions of the brain, that are functionally connected, during rest constitutes to the resting state network. In the present study, we employed the complex network measures to estimate the presence of community structures within a network. Such estimate is named as modularity. Instead of using a traditional correlation matrix, we used a coherence matrix taken from the causality measure between different nodes. Our results show that in prolonged resting state the modularity starts to decrease. This decrease was observed in all the resting state networks and on both sides of the brain. Our study highlights the usage of coherence matrix instead of correlation matrix for complex network analysis.

Matrix elements of N-particle explicitly correlated Gaussian basis functions with complex exponential parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bubin, Sergiy; Adamowicz, Ludwik

2006-06-01

In this work we present analytical expressions for Hamiltonian matrix elements with spherically symmetric, explicitly correlated Gaussian basis functions with complex exponential parameters for an arbitrary number of particles. The expressions are derived using the formalism of matrix differential calculus. In addition, we present expressions for the energy gradient that includes derivatives of the Hamiltonian integrals with respect to the exponential parameters. The gradient is used in the variational optimization of the parameters. All the expressions are presented in the matrix form suitable for both numerical implementation and theoretical analysis. The energy and gradient formulas have been programed and used to calculate ground and excited states of the He atom using an approach that does not involve the Born-Oppenheimer approximation.

Matrix elements of N-particle explicitly correlated Gaussian basis functions with complex exponential parameters.

PubMed

Bubin, Sergiy; Adamowicz, Ludwik

2006-06-14

In this work we present analytical expressions for Hamiltonian matrix elements with spherically symmetric, explicitly correlated Gaussian basis functions with complex exponential parameters for an arbitrary number of particles. The expressions are derived using the formalism of matrix differential calculus. In addition, we present expressions for the energy gradient that includes derivatives of the Hamiltonian integrals with respect to the exponential parameters. The gradient is used in the variational optimization of the parameters. All the expressions are presented in the matrix form suitable for both numerical implementation and theoretical analysis. The energy and gradient formulas have been programmed and used to calculate ground and excited states of the He atom using an approach that does not involve the Born-Oppenheimer approximation.

Antimicrobial Activity of Some Essential Oils—Present Status and Future Perspectives

PubMed Central

Chouhan, Sonam; Sharma, Kanika

2017-01-01

Extensive documentation on the antimicrobial properties of essential oils and their constituents has been carried out by several workers. Although the mechanism of action of a few essential oil components has been elucidated in many pioneering works in the past, detailed knowledge of most of the compounds and their mechanism of action is still lacking. This knowledge is particularly important for the determination of the effect of essential oils on different microorganisms, how they work in combination with other antimicrobial compounds, and their interaction with food matrix components. Also, recent studies have demonstrated that nanoparticles (NPs) functionalized with essential oils have significant antimicrobial potential against multidrug- resistant pathogens due to an increase in chemical stability and solubility, decreased rapid evaporation and minimized degradation of active essential oil components. The application of encapsulated essential oils also supports their controlled and sustained release, which enhances their bioavailability and efficacy against multidrug-resistant pathogens. In the recent years, due to increasingly negative consumer perceptions of synthetic preservatives, interest in essential oils and their application in food preservation has been amplified. Moreover, the development of resistance to different antimicrobial agents by bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites, etc. is a great challenge to the medical field for treating the infections caused by them, and hence, there is a pressing need to look for new and novel antimicrobials. To overcome these problems, nano-encapsulation of essential oils and exploiting the synergies between essential oils, constituents of essential oils, and antibiotics along with essential oils have been recommended as an answer to this problem. However, less is known about the interactions that lead to additive, synergistic, or antagonistic effects. A contributing role of this knowledge could be the design of new and more potent antimicrobial blends, and understanding of the interplay between the components of crude essential oils. This review is written with the purpose of giving an overview of current knowledge about the antimicrobial properties of essential oils and their mechanisms of action, components of essential oils, nano-encapsulated essential oils, and synergistic combinations of essential oils so as to find research areas that can facilitate applications of essential oils to overcome the problem of multidrug-resistant micro-organisms. PMID:28930272

Polymer-free nanofibers from vanillin/cyclodextrin inclusion complexes: high thermal stability, enhanced solubility and antioxidant property.

PubMed

Celebioglu, Asli; Kayaci-Senirmak, Fatma; İpek, Semran; Durgun, Engin; Uyar, Tamer

2016-07-13

Vanillin/cyclodextrin inclusion complex nanofibers (vanillin/CD-IC NFs) were successfully obtained from three modified CD types (HPβCD, HPγCD and MβCD) in three different solvent systems (water, DMF and DMAc) via an electrospinning technique without using a carrier polymeric matrix. Vanillin/CD-IC NFs with uniform and bead-free fiber morphology were successfully produced and their free-standing nanofibrous webs were obtained. The polymer-free CD/vanillin-IC-NFs allow us to accomplish a much higher vanillin loading (∼12%, w/w) when compared to electrospun polymeric nanofibers containing CD/vanillin-IC (∼5%, w/w). Vanillin has a volatile nature yet, after electrospinning, a significant amount of vanillin was preserved due to complex formation depending on the CD types. Maximum preservation of vanillin was observed for vanillin/MβCD-IC NFs which is up to ∼85% w/w, besides, a considerable amount of vanillin (∼75% w/w) was also preserved for vanillin/HPβCD-IC NFs and vanillin/HPγCD-IC NFs. Phase solubility studies suggested a 1 : 1 molar complexation tendency between guest vanillin and host CD molecules. Molecular modelling studies and experimental findings revealed that vanillin : CD complexation was strongest for MβCD when compared to HPβCD and HPγCD in vanillin/CD-IC NFs. For vanillin/CD-IC NFs, water solubility and the antioxidant property of vanillin was improved significantly owing to inclusion complexation. In brief, polymer-free vanillin/CD-IC NFs are capable of incorporating a much higher loading of vanillin and effectively preserve volatile vanillin. Hence, encapsulation of volatile active agents such as flavor, fragrance and essential oils in electrospun polymer-free CD-IC NFs may have potential for food related applications by integrating the particularly large surface area of NFs with the non-toxic nature of CD and inclusion complexation benefits, such as high temperature stability, improved water solubility and an enhanced antioxidant property, etc.

Application of Wave Distribution Function Method to the ERG/PWE Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ota, M.; Kasahara, Y.; Matsuda, S.; Kojima, H.; Matsuoka, A.; Hikishima, M.; Kasaba, Y.; Ozaki, M.; Yagitani, S.; Tsuchiya, F.; Kumamoto, A.

2017-12-01

The ERG (Arase) satellite was launched on 20 December 2016 to study acceleration and loss mechanisms of relativistic electrons in the Earth's magnetosphere. The Plasma Wave Experiment (PWE), which is one of the science instruments on board the ERG satellite, measures electric field and magnetic field. The PWE consists of three sub-systems; EFD (Electric Field Detector), OFA/WFC (Onboard Frequency Analyzer and Waveform Capture), and HFA (High Frequency Analyzer).The OFA/WFC measures electromagnetic field spectra and raw waveforms in the frequency range from few Hz to 20 kHz. The OFA produces three kind of data; OFA-SPEC (power spectrum), OFA-MATRIX (spectral matrix), and OFA-COMPLEX (complex spectrum). The OFA-MATRIX measures ensemble averaged complex cross-spectra of two electric field components, and of three magnetic field components. The OFA-COMPLEX measures instantaneous complex spectra of electric and magnetic fields. These data are produced every 8 seconds in the nominal mode, and it can be used for polarization analysis and wave propagation direction finding.In general, spectral matrix composed by cross-spectra of observed signals is used for direction finding, and many algorithms have been proposed. For example, Means method and SVD method can be applied on the assumption that the spectral matrix is consists of a single plane wave, while wave distribution function (WDF) method is applicable even to the data in which multiple numbers of plane waves are simultaneously included. In this presentation, we introduce the results when the WDF method is applied to the ERG/PWE data.

Effects of a wax organogel and alginate gel complex on holy basil (Ocimum sanctum) in vitro ruminal dry matter disappearance and gas production.

PubMed

Templeman, James R; Rogers, Michael A; Cant, John P; McBride, Brian W; Osborne, Vern R

2018-02-20

The objectives of this study were to: (a) select an ideal organogel for the oil phase of a novel gel encapsulation technology, (b) optimize the formulation of an organogel and sodium alginate-based gel complex, and (c) examine the rumen protective ability of the gel by measuring 48-h in vitro ruminal dry matter disappearance and gas production from encapsulated dried and ground holy basil leaves. A rice-bran wax and canola oil organogel was selected for the oil phase of the gel complex as this combination had a 48-h dry matter disappearance of 6%, the lowest of all organogels analyzed. The gel complex was formulated by homogenizing the organogel with a sodium alginate solution to create a low-viscosity oil-in-water emulsion. Average dry matter disappearance of gel-encapsulated holy basil was 19%, compared to 42% for the free, unprotected holy basil. However, gel encapsulation of holy basil stimulated gas production. Specifically, gas production of encapsulated holy basil was four times higher than the treatment with holy basil added on top of the gel prior to incubation rather than encapsulated within the gel. Although the gel itself was highly degradable, it is speculated encapsulation thwarted holy basil's antimicrobial activity. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Bottom-Up and Top-Down Solid-State NMR Approaches for Bacterial Biofilm Matrix Composition

PubMed Central

Cegelski, Lynette

2015-01-01

The genomics and proteomics revolutions have been enormously successful in providing crucial “parts lists” for biological systems. Yet, formidable challenges exist in generating complete descriptions of how the parts function and assemble into macromolecular complexes and whole-cell assemblies. Bacterial biofilms are complex multicellular bacterial communities protected by a slime-like extracellular matrix that confers protection to environmental stress and enhances resistance to antibiotics and host defenses. As a non-crystalline, insoluble, heterogeneous assembly, the biofilm extracellular matrix poses a challenge to compositional analysis by conventional methods. In this Perspective, bottom-up and top-down solid-state NMR approaches are described for defining chemical composition in complex macrosystems. The “sum-of-theparts” bottom-up approach was introduced to examine the amyloid-integrated biofilms formed by E. coli and permitted the first determination of the composition of the intact extracellular matrix from a bacterial biofilm. An alternative top-down approach was developed to define composition in V. cholerae biofilms and relied on an extensive panel of NMR measurements to tease out specific carbon pools from a single sample of the intact extracellular matrix. These two approaches are widely applicable to other heterogeneous assemblies. For bacterial biofilms, quantitative parameters of matrix composition are needed to understand how biofilms are assembled, to improve the development of biofilm inhibitors, and to dissect inhibitor modes of action. Solid-state NMR approaches will also be invaluable in obtaining parameters of matrix architecture. PMID:25797008

Bottom-up and top-down solid-state NMR approaches for bacterial biofilm matrix composition.

PubMed

Cegelski, Lynette

2015-04-01

The genomics and proteomics revolutions have been enormously successful in providing crucial "parts lists" for biological systems. Yet, formidable challenges exist in generating complete descriptions of how the parts function and assemble into macromolecular complexes and whole-cell assemblies. Bacterial biofilms are complex multicellular bacterial communities protected by a slime-like extracellular matrix that confers protection to environmental stress and enhances resistance to antibiotics and host defenses. As a non-crystalline, insoluble, heterogeneous assembly, the biofilm extracellular matrix poses a challenge to compositional analysis by conventional methods. In this perspective, bottom-up and top-down solid-state NMR approaches are described for defining chemical composition in complex macrosystems. The "sum-of-the-parts" bottom-up approach was introduced to examine the amyloid-integrated biofilms formed by Escherichia coli and permitted the first determination of the composition of the intact extracellular matrix from a bacterial biofilm. An alternative top-down approach was developed to define composition in Vibrio cholerae biofilms and relied on an extensive panel of NMR measurements to tease out specific carbon pools from a single sample of the intact extracellular matrix. These two approaches are widely applicable to other heterogeneous assemblies. For bacterial biofilms, quantitative parameters of matrix composition are needed to understand how biofilms are assembled, to improve the development of biofilm inhibitors, and to dissect inhibitor modes of action. Solid-state NMR approaches will also be invaluable in obtaining parameters of matrix architecture. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Bottom-up and top-down solid-state NMR approaches for bacterial biofilm matrix composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cegelski, Lynette

2015-04-01

The genomics and proteomics revolutions have been enormously successful in providing crucial "parts lists" for biological systems. Yet, formidable challenges exist in generating complete descriptions of how the parts function and assemble into macromolecular complexes and whole-cell assemblies. Bacterial biofilms are complex multicellular bacterial communities protected by a slime-like extracellular matrix that confers protection to environmental stress and enhances resistance to antibiotics and host defenses. As a non-crystalline, insoluble, heterogeneous assembly, the biofilm extracellular matrix poses a challenge to compositional analysis by conventional methods. In this perspective, bottom-up and top-down solid-state NMR approaches are described for defining chemical composition in complex macrosystems. The "sum-of-the-parts" bottom-up approach was introduced to examine the amyloid-integrated biofilms formed by Escherichia coli and permitted the first determination of the composition of the intact extracellular matrix from a bacterial biofilm. An alternative top-down approach was developed to define composition in Vibrio cholerae biofilms and relied on an extensive panel of NMR measurements to tease out specific carbon pools from a single sample of the intact extracellular matrix. These two approaches are widely applicable to other heterogeneous assemblies. For bacterial biofilms, quantitative parameters of matrix composition are needed to understand how biofilms are assembled, to improve the development of biofilm inhibitors, and to dissect inhibitor modes of action. Solid-state NMR approaches will also be invaluable in obtaining parameters of matrix architecture.

Complex coacervation of collagen hydrolysate extracted from leather solid wastes and chitosan for controlled release of lavender oil.

PubMed

Ocak, Buğra

2012-06-15

In the world, approximately 600,000 metric tonnes of chromium-containing solid wastes are generated by the leather industry each year. Environmental concerns and escalating landfill costs are becoming increasingly serious problems to the leather industry and seeking solutions to these problems is a prime concern in much research today. In this study, solid collagen-based protein hydrolysate was isolated from chromium-tanned leather wastes and its chemical properties were determined. Microcapsules of collagen hydrolysate (CH) - chitosan (C) crosslinked with glutaraldehyde (GA) containing Lavender oil (LO) were prepared by complex coacervation method. The effects of various processing parameters, including the CH to C ratio, LO content, and GA, on the oil load (%), oil content (%), encapsulation efficiency (%) and release rate of LO from microcapsules were investigated. As the ratio of C present in the CH/C mixture and crosslinking density increased, the release rate of LO from microcapsules slowed down. Optical and scanning electron microscopy images illustrated that the LO microcapsules were spherical in shape. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) studies confirmed that there was no significant interaction between CH/C complex and LO. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pulmonary immunity and extracellular matrix interactions.

PubMed

O'Dwyer, David N; Gurczynski, Stephen J; Moore, Bethany B

2018-04-09

The lung harbors a complex immune system composed of both innate and adaptive immune cells. Recognition of infection and injury by receptors on lung innate immune cells is crucial for generation of antigen-specific responses by adaptive immune cells. The extracellular matrix of the lung, comprising the interstitium and basement membrane, plays a key role in the regulation of these immune systems. The matrix consists of several hundred assembled proteins that interact to form a bioactive scaffold. This template, modified by enzymes, acts to facilitate cell function and differentiation and changes dynamically with age and lung disease. Herein, we explore relationships between innate and adaptive immunity and the lung extracellular matrix. We discuss the interactions between extracellular matrix proteins, including glycosaminoglycans, with prominent effects on innate immune signaling effectors such as toll-like receptors. We describe the relationship of extracellular matrix proteins with adaptive immunity and leukocyte migration to sites of injury within the lung. Further study of these interactions will lead to greater knowledge of the role of matrix biology in lung immunity. The development of novel therapies for acute and chronic lung disease is dependent on a comprehensive understanding of these complex matrix-immunity interactions. Copyright © 2017 International Society of Matrix Biology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Managing Conflict in Temporary Management Systems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wilemon, David L.

1973-01-01

As organizational tasks have grown more complex, several innovative temporary management systems such as matrix management have been developed. The Apollo space program has been an important contribution to the development of matrix management techniques. Discusses the role of conflict within the matrix, its determinants, and the process of…

Niaouli oils from different sources: analysis and influence on cutaneous permeation of estradiol in vitro.

PubMed

Monti, D; Tampucci, S; Chetoni, P; Burgalassi, S; Bertoli, A; Pistelli, L

2009-07-01

Previous studies in vitro had identified niaouli essential oil (NEO) as a valuable transdermal permeation promoter for estradiol (ES). Subsequent considerations on the complex issue of NEO provenance and composition stimulated the present investigation, which was aimed at defining the composition of NEOs obtained from four different sources, at evaluating their influence on transdermal permeation of ES through hairless mouse skin, and at formulating and evaluating simpler terpene mixtures mimicking the NEOs' composition. While all oils contained 1,8-cineol (eucalyptol) as the main component, appreciable variations in composition could be evidenced, originating differences on the ES cutaneous permeation. Two artificial mixtures containing the same proportions of the main terpenes present in each oil (except the commercially unavailable gamma-terpineol) proved equal or significantly superior in activity when compared with the original oils. It is felt that this study might contribute to the formulation of terpene mixtures acting more efficiently and reproducibly with respect to natural NEOs, whose complex and variable composition, depending on growing place, season, and extraction process, is well documented in the relevant literature.

Assesment of trace elements and organic pollutants from a marine oil complex into the coral reef system of Cayo Arcas, Mexico.

PubMed

Cram, Silke; Ponce De León, Claudia A; Fernández, Pilar; Sommer, Irene; Rivas, Hilda; Morales, Luis Miguel

2006-10-01

Possible contaminants produced by the Petroleos Mexicanos (PEMEX) marine oil complex in the vicinity of the Cayo Arcas (Mexico) coral reef ecosystem were evaluated by analyzing sediments and sea water for hydrocarbons and metal elements. We found that the concentrations of aliphatic hydrocarbons in the sea water were generally low, with the highest values detected near the oil station; the concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was generally below the detection limit. The hydrocarbons found in the sediments seem to have a pyrogenic origin, and were probably produced by marine traffic in the study area. The total PAH concentration did not exceed the NOAA criteria, although levels of some individual PAHs did. The only metal detected in the sea water at high concentrations was nickel. The Ni/V ratio in the sediments indicates the contribution of crude oil to the system. The high content of Ni and Zn was attributed to the ballast waters from the oil tankers that load at the station's monobuoys. The presence of fine sediments that commonly originate from terrestrial ecosystems supported this assumption.

Pyrolysis Oil-Based Lipid Production as Biodiesel Feedstock by Rhodococcus opacus

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wei, Zhen; Zeng, Guangming; Kosa, Matyas

2014-11-07

Light oil from pyrolysis, which accounts for ~10 % carbon yield of the starting biomass, is a complex aqueous product that is difficult to utilize and usually discarded. This work presents the feasibility of light oil as a sole carbon source to support the growth of Rhodococcus opacus (R. opacus) that in turn accumulate triacylglycerols as biodiesel feedstock. Two types of bacteria (R. opacus PD630 and DSM 1069) were selected in this study. Research results showed that after short adaption periods both strains can grow well on this complex carbon source, as proved by the consumption of oligomers and monomersmore » in light oil. Lipid content by R. opacus PD630 and DSM 1069 was observed up to 25.8 % and 22.0 % of cell dry weight, respectively. Palmitic and stearic acids were found to be the predominant fatty acids in these bacterial cells. In addition, the light oil-based lipid production can be enhanced by reducing the pH value from 7 to 4, especially in case of DSM 1069.« less

On the Noble-Gas Induced Intersystem Crossing for the CUO Molecule: Experimental and Theoretical investigations of CUO(Ng)n (Ng = Ar, Kr, Xe; n = 1, 2, 3, 4) Complexes in Solid Neon

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liang, Binyong; Andrews, Lester S.; Li, Jun

2004-02-09

Uranium atoms excited by laser ablation react with CO in excess neon to produce the novel CUO molecule, which forms distinct Ng complexes (Ng = Ar, Kr, Xe) when the heavier noble gases are added. The CUO(Ng) complexes are identified through CO isotopic and Ng substitution on the neon matrix infrared spectra and by comparison to DFT frequency calculations. The U-C and U-O stretching frequencies of CUO(Ng) complexes are slightly red shifted from frequencies for the 1S+ CUO ground state, which identifies singlet ground state CUO(Ng) complexes. In solid neon the CUO molecule is also a complex CUO(Ne)n, and themore » CUO(Ne)n-1(Ng) complexes are likewise specified. The next singlet CUO(Ne)x(Ng)2 complexes in excess neon follow in like manner. However, the higher CUO(Ne)x(Ng)n complex (n = 3, 4) stretching modes approach pure argon matrix CUO(Ar)n values and isotopic behavior, which are characterized as triplet ground state complexes by DFT frequency calculations. This work suggests that the singlet-triplet crossing occurs with 3 Ar, 3 Kr or 4 Xe and a balance of Ne atoms coordinated to CUO in the neon matrix host.« less

The effect of prime emulsion components as a function of equilibrium headspace concentration of soursop flavor compounds

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Perceptions of food products start when flavor compounds are released from foods, transported and appropriate senses in the oral and nose are triggered. However, the long-term stability of flavor compounds in food product has been a major concern in the food industry due to the complex interactions between key food ingredients (e.g., polysaccharides and proteins). Hence, this study was conducted to formulate emulsion-based beverage using natural food emulsifiers and to understand the interactions between emulsion compositions and flavor compounds. Results The influences of modified starch (x 1 ), whey protein isolate (x 2 ), soursop flavor oil (x 3 ) and deionized water (x 4 ) on the equilibrium headspace concentration of soursop volatile flavor compounds were evaluated using a four-component with constrained extreme vertices mixture design. The results indicated that the equilibrium headspace concentration of soursop flavor compounds were significantly (p < 0.05) influenced by the matrix and structural compositions of the beverage emulsions. Interface formed using modified starch and whey protein isolate (WPI) proved to be capable of inhibiting the release of volatile flavor compounds from the oil to the aqueous phase. Modified starch could retard the overall flavor release through its hydrophobic interactions with volatile flavor compounds and viscosity enhancement effect. Excessive amount of modified starch was also shown to be detrimental to the stability of emulsion system. However, both modified starch and WPI showed to be a much more effective barrier in inhibiting the flavor release of flavor compounds when used as individual emulsifier than as a mixture. Conclusions Overall, the mixture design can be practical in elucidating the complex interactions between key food components and volatile flavor compounds in an emulsion system. These studies will be useful for the manufacturers for the formulation of an optimum beverage emulsion with desirable emulsion properties and desirable flavor release profile. PMID:24708894

Oil: a guide through the total energy jungle

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Windsor, P.

1976-01-01

The primary fact is, according to Mr. Windsor, that there is no shortage of oil and there won't be for many years to come--ample time for advanced technologies to provide other sources of energy if only.... This is not to downgrade the severity of the crisis--but to say that the major dangers lie elsewhere, in politics, in monetary, fiscal, social and military national policies. The author traces an easily comprehensible line for connection through these complexities. Here is a brief history of oil, of the great oil companies, their connections with their governments and their continuing, if diminishing, importance. Heremore » are answers to such vital questions as: why a complex OPEC country like Iran might want maximum oil production and the highest possible rate of price increase while a smaller and simpler one like Saudi Arabia might want to keep its oil in the ground and ask more moderate prices; what effect the price of oil may have on world economic stability and the capabilities of Western technology; how oil is now setting back if not destroying the Green Revolution in new and developing countries; why it is perhaps sensible to develop oil fields off Scotland and Alaska, and elsewhere, even though the wellhead cost per barrel is astronomically higher than in Saudi Arabia. These matters, and many others like them, are not separate although they have devastating particular effects. In the end, more concerned with international relations than with oil itself or economics in the strict sense of the word, this book points out that the solution must be political on a multinational scale and requires foresight and forbearance of a kind uncommon in history. (from book jacket)« less

Effects of smectite on the oil-expulsion efficiency of the Kreyenhagen Shale, San Joaquin Basin, California, based on hydrous-pyrolysis experiments

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lewan, Michael D.; Dolan, Michael P.; Curtis, John B.

2014-01-01

The amount of oil that maturing source rocks expel is expressed as their expulsion efficiency, which is usually stated in milligrams of expelled oil per gram of original total organic carbon (TOCO). Oil-expulsion efficiency can be determined by heating thermally immature source rocks in the presence of liquid water (i.e., hydrous pyrolysis) at temperatures between 350°C and 365°C for 72 hr. This pyrolysis method generates oil that is compositionally similar to natural crude oil and expels it by processes operative in the subsurface. Consequently, hydrous pyrolysis provides a means to determine oil-expulsion efficiencies and the rock properties that influence them. Smectite in source rocks has previously been considered to promote oil generation and expulsion and is the focus of this hydrous-pyrolysis study involving a representative sample of smectite-rich source rock from the Eocene Kreyenhagen Shale in the San Joaquin Basin of California. Smectite is the major clay mineral (31 wt. %) in this thermally immature sample, which contains 9.4 wt. % total organic carbon (TOC) comprised of type II kerogen. Compared to other immature source rocks that lack smectite as their major clay mineral, the expulsion efficiency of the Kreyenhagen Shale was significantly lower. The expulsion efficiency of the Kreyenhagen whole rock was reduced 88% compared to that of its isolated kerogen. This significant reduction is attributed to bitumen impregnating the smectite interlayers in addition to the rock matrix. Within the interlayers, much of the bitumen is converted to pyrobitumen through crosslinking instead of oil through thermal cracking. As a result, smectite does not promote oil generation but inhibits it. Bitumen impregnation of the rock matrix and smectite interlayers results in the rock pore system changing from water wet to bitumen wet. This change prevents potassium ion (K+) transfer and dissolution and precipitation reactions needed for the conversion of smectite to illite. As a result, illitization only reaches 35% to 40% at 310°C for 72 hr and remains unchanged to 365°C for 72 hr. Bitumen generation before or during early illitization in these experiments emphasizes the importance of knowing when and to what degree illitization occurs in natural maturation of a smectite-rich source rock to determine its expulsion efficiency. Complete illitization prior to bitumen generation is common for Paleozoic source rocks (e.g., Woodford Shale and Retort Phosphatic Shale Member of the Phosphoria Formation), and expulsion efficiencies can be determined on immature samples by hydrous pyrolysis. Conversely, smectite is more common in Cenozoic source rocks like the Kreyenhagen Shale, and expulsion efficiencies determined by hydrous pyrolysis need to be made on samples that reflect the level of illitization at or near bitumen generation in the subsurface.

Experimental evidence for blue-shifted hydrogen bonding in the fluoroform-hydrogen chloride complex: a matrix-isolation infrared and ab initio study.

PubMed

Gopi, R; Ramanathan, N; Sundararajan, K

2014-07-24

The 1:1 hydrogen-bonded complex of fluoroform and hydrogen chloride was studied using matrix-isolation infrared spectroscopy and ab initio computations. Using B3LYP and MP2 levels of theory with 6-311++G(d,p) and aug-cc-pVDZ basis sets, the structures of the complexes and their energies were computed. For the 1:1 CHF3-HCl complexes, ab initio computations showed two minima, one cyclic and the other acyclic. The cyclic complex was found to have C-H · · · Cl and C-F · · · H interactions, where CHF3 and HCl sub-molecules act as proton donor and proton acceptor, respectively. The second minimum corresponded to an acyclic complex stabilized only by the C-F · · · H interaction, in which CHF3 is the proton acceptor. Experimentally, we could trap the 1:1 CHF3-HCl cyclic complex in an argon matrix, where a blue-shift in the C-H stretching mode of the CHF3 sub-molecule was observed. To understand the nature of the interactions, Atoms in Molecules and Natural Bond Orbital analyses were carried out to unravel the reasons for blue-shifting of the C-H stretching frequency in these complexes.

Synthesis and characterization of zinc oxide-neem oil-chitosan bionanocomposite for food packaging application.

PubMed

Sanuja, S; Agalya, A; Umapathy, M J

2015-03-01

Nano zinc oxide at different concentrations (0.1, 0.3 and 0.5%) and neem essential oil were incorporated into the chitosan polymer by solution cast method to enhance the properties of the bionanocomposite film. The functional groups, crystalline particle size, thermal stability and morphology were determined using FTIR, XRD, TGA and SEM, respectively. The results showed that 0.5% nano zinc oxide incorporated composite film have improved tensile strength, elongation, film thickness, film transparency and decreased water solubility, swelling and barrier properties due to the presence of neem oil and nano zinc oxide in the polymer matrix. Further antibacterial activity by well diffusion assay method was followed against Escherichia coli which were found to have good inhibition effect. In addition to this food quality application were carried against carrot and compared with the commercial film. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Evaluation of Microstructure and Toughness of AISI D2 Steel by Bright Hardening in Comparison with Oil Quenching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torkamani, H.; Raygan, Sh.; Rassizadehghani, J.

2011-12-01

AISI D2 is used widely in the manufacture of blanking and cold-forming dies, on account of its excellent hardness and wear behavior. Increasing toughness at a fixed high level of hardness is growing requirement for this kind of tool steel. Improving microstructure characteristics, especially refinement of coarse carbides, is an appropriate way to meet such requirement. In this study, morphology and size of carbides in martensite matrix were compared between two kinds of samples, which were bright hardened (quenching in hot alkaline salt bath consisting of 60% KOH and 40% NaOH) at 230 °C and quenched in oil bath at 60 °C. Results showed that morphology and distribution of carbides in samples performed by bright hardening were finer and almost spherical compared to that of oil quenched. This microstructure resulted in an improvement in toughness and tensile properties of alloy.

Oil biodegradation. Water droplets in oil are microhabitats for microbial life.

PubMed

Meckenstock, Rainer U; von Netzer, Frederick; Stumpp, Christine; Lueders, Tillmann; Himmelberg, Anne M; Hertkorn, Norbert; Schmitt-Kopplin, Philipp; Harir, Mourad; Hosein, Riad; Haque, Shirin; Schulze-Makuch, Dirk

2014-08-08

Anaerobic microbial degradation of hydrocarbons, typically occurring at the oil-water transition zone, influences the quality of oil reservoirs. In Pitch Lake, Trinidad and Tobago--the world's largest asphalt lake--we found that microorganisms are metabolically active in minuscule water droplets (1 to 3 microliters) entrapped in oil. Pyrotag sequencing of individual droplet microbiomes revealed complex methanogenic microbial communities actively degrading the oil into a diverse range of metabolites, as shown by nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry. High salinity and water-stable isotopes of the droplets indicate a deep subsurface origin. The 13.5% water content and the large surface area of the droplets represent an underestimated potential for biodegradation of oil away from the oil-water transition zone. Copyright © 2014, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Topical application of Acheflan on rat skin injury accelerates wound healing: a histopathological, immunohistochemical and biochemical study.

PubMed

Perini, Jamila Alessandra; Angeli-Gamba, Thais; Alessandra-Perini, Jessica; Ferreira, Luiz Claudio; Nasciutti, Luiz Eurico; Machado, Daniel Escorsim

2015-06-30

Dermal wound healing involves a cascade of complex events including angiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodeling. Several groups have focused in the study of the skin wound healing activity of natural products. The phytomedicine Acheflan®, and its main active constituent is the oil from Cordia verbenacea which has known anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antimicrobial activities. To our knowledge, no investigation has evaluated the effect of Acheflan® in an experimental model of skin wound healing. The present study has explored the wound healing property of Acheflan® and has compared it with topical effectiveness of collagenase and fibrinolysin by using Wistar rat cutaneous excision wound model. Animals were divided into four groups: untreated animals are negative control (NC), wounds were treated topically every day with Collagenase ointment (TC), with Fibrinolysin ointment (TF) and with cream Acheflan (TAc). Skin samples were collected on zero, 8th and 15th days after wounding. The healing was assessed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE), picrosirius red, hydoxyproline content and immunohistochemical analysis of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloprotease-9 (MMP-9). Statistical analysis was done by ANOVA and Student t-test (p < 0.05). The histological analysis HE of wound in the TAc group was more efficient because it was possible to observe the complete remodeling of the epidermis indicating the regression of lesions compared with the NC. The evaluation of picrosirius staining has demonstrated a significant increase of collagen distribution in the TC and TAc treatments compared with NC and TF groups. These results are corroborated with hydroxyproline content. Skin TC and TAc treated rats have showed an increase of VEGF and MMP-9 compared with NC and TF groups. All parameters were significant (P < 0.05). The phytomedicine Acheflan® (oil of Cordia verbenacea) and TC possess higher therapeutic properties for wound healing compared with TF. These ointments seem to accelerate wound healing, probably due to their involvement with the increase of angiogenesis and dermal remodeling.

Studies on the origin and transformation of selenium and its chemical species along the process of petroleum refining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stivanin de Almeida, Cibele M.; Ribeiro, Anderson S.; Saint'Pierre, Tatiana D.; Miekeley, Norbert

2009-06-01

Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry and mass spectrometry (ICPMS), the latter hyphenated to flow injection hydride generation, electrothermal vaporization or ion chromatography, have been applied to the chemical characterization of crude oil, aqueous process stream samples and wastewaters from a petroleum refinery, in order to get information on the behavior of selenium and its chemical species along effluent generation and treatment. Multielemental characterization of these effluents by ICPMS revealed a complex composition of most of them, with high salinity and potential spectral and non-spectral interferents present. For this reason, a critical re-assessment of the analytical techniques for the determination of total selenium and its species was performed. Methane was employed as gas in dynamic reaction cell ICPMS and cell parameters were optimized for a simulated brine matrix and for diluted aqueous solutions to match the expected process and treated wastewaters samples. The signal-to-background ratios for 78Se and 80Se were used as criteria in optimization, the first isotope resulting in better detection limits for the simulated brine matrix ( 78Se: 0.07 μg L - 1 , 80Se: 0.31 μg L - 1 ). A large variability in the concentration of selenium (from < 10 μg kg - 1 up to 960 μg kg - 1 ) was observed in 16 of the most frequently processed crude oil samples in the refinery here investigated, which may explain the pronounced concentrations changes of this element measured in aqueous process stream and wastewater samples. Highest concentrations of total selenium were analyzed in samples from the hydrotreater (up to about 1800 μg L - 1 ). The predominance of selenocyanate (SeCN -) was observed in most of the wastewaters so far investigated, but also other species were detected with retention times different from Se(IV), Se(VI) and SeCN -. Colloidal selenium (Se 0) was the only Se-species observed in samples from the atmospheric distillation unit, but was also identified in other samples, most probably formed by the decomposition of SeCN - or other unstable species.

Anticorrosion Coatings Based on Assemblies of Superhydrophobic Particles Impregnated with Conductive Oil

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-13

silver nanowires synthesized in our group using sol-gel techniques...been demonstrated (Figure 12). The electrical resistance of the coatings should further be decreased Figure 14. High aspect ratio silver nanowires ...the coatings is to use a conductive polymer matrix and disperse high aspect ratio silver nanowires into the coating formulations. The electrical

[The design and experiment of complementary S coding matrix based on digital micromirror spectrometer].

PubMed

Zhang, Zhi-Hai; Gao, Ling-Xiao; Guo, Yuan-Jun; Wang, Wei; Mo, Xiang-Xia

2012-12-01

The template selection is essential in the application of digital micromirror spectrometer. The best theoretical coding H-matrix is not widely used due to acyclic, complex coding and difficult achievement. The noise ratio of best practical S-matrix for improvement is slightly inferior to matrix H. So we designed a new type complementary S-matrix. Through studying its noise improvement theory, the algorithm is proved to have the advantages of both H-matrix and S-matrix. The experiments proved that the SNR can be increased 2.05 times than S-template.

Evidence for Microfossils in Ancient Rocks and Meteorites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoover, Richard B.; Rozanov, A. Y.; Zhmur, S. I.; Gorlenko, V. M.

1998-01-01

The McKay et all. detection of chemical biomarkers and possible microfossils in an ancient meteorite from Mars (ALH84001) stimulated research in several areas of importance to the newly emerging field of Astrobiology. Their report resulted in a search for additional evidence of microfossils in ancient terrestrial rocks and meteorites. These studies of ancient rocks and meteorites were conducted independently (and later collaboratively) in the United States and Russia using the SEM, Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope (ESEM), and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM). We have encountered in-situ in freshly broken carbonaceous chondrites a large number of complex microstructures that appear to be lithified microbial forms. The meteoritic microstructures have characteristics similar to the lithified remains of filamentous cyanobacteria and bacterial microfossils we have found in ancient phosphorites, ancient graphites and oil shales. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and Link microprobe analysis shows the possible microfossils have a distribution of chemical elements characteristic of the meteorite rock matrix, although many exhibit a superimposed carbon enhancement. We have concluded that the mineralized bodies encountered embedded in the rock matrix of freshly fractured meteoritic surfaces can not be dismissed as recent surface contaminants. Many of the forms found in-situ in the Murchison, Efremovka, and Orgueil carbonaceous meteorites are strikingly similar to microfossils of coccoid bacteria, cyanobacteria and fungi such as we have found in the Cambrian phosphorites of Khubsugul, Mongolia and high carbon Phanerozoic and Precambrian rocks of the Siberian and Russian Platforms.

33 CFR 149.125 - What are the requirements for the malfunction detection system?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... marine transfer area on an oil deepwater port must be equipped with a monitoring system in accordance...) Each oil and natural gas system, between a pumping platform complex and the shore, must have a system...

33 CFR 149.125 - What are the requirements for the malfunction detection system?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... marine transfer area on an oil deepwater port must be equipped with a monitoring system in accordance...) Each oil and natural gas system, between a pumping platform complex and the shore, must have a system...

33 CFR 149.125 - What are the requirements for the malfunction detection system?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... marine transfer area on an oil deepwater port must be equipped with a monitoring system in accordance...) Each oil and natural gas system, between a pumping platform complex and the shore, must have a system...

Multi-Length Scale-Enriched Continuum-Level Material Model for Kevlar-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer-Matrix Composites

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-08-03

is unlimited. Multi-Length Scale-Enriched Continuum-Level Material Model for Kevlar ®-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer-Matrix Composites The views, opinions...12211 Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2211 ballistics, composites, Kevlar , material models, microstructural defects REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE 11... Kevlar ®-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer-Matrix Composites Report Title Fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composite materials display quite complex deformation

Inhibition of palm oil oxidation by zeolite nanocrystals.

PubMed

Tan, Kok-Hou; Awala, Hussein; Mukti, Rino R; Wong, Ka-Lun; Rigaud, Baptiste; Ling, Tau Chuan; Aleksandrov, Hristiyan A; Koleva, Iskra Z; Vayssilov, Georgi N; Mintova, Svetlana; Ng, Eng-Poh

2015-05-13

The efficiency of zeolite X nanocrystals (FAU-type framework structure) containing different extra-framework cations (Li(+), Na(+), K(+), and Ca(2+)) in slowing the thermal oxidation of palm oil is reported. The oxidation study of palm oil is conducted in the presence of zeolite nanocrystals (0.5 wt %) at 150 °C. Several characterization techniques such as visual analysis, colorimetry, rheometry, total acid number (TAN), FT-IR spectroscopy, (1)H NMR spectroscopy, and Karl Fischer analyses are applied to follow the oxidative evolution of the oil. It was found that zeolite nanocrystals decelerate the oxidation of palm oil through stabilization of hydroperoxides, which are the primary oxidation product, and concurrently via adsorption of the secondary oxidation products (alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, and esters). In addition to the experimental results, periodic density functional theory (DFT) calculations are performed to elucidate further the oxidation process of the palm oil in the presence of zeolite nanocrystals. The DFT calculations show that the metal complexes formed with peroxides are more stable than the complexes with alkenes with the same ions. The peroxides captured in the zeolite X nanocrystals consequently decelerate further oxidation toward formation of acids. Unlike the monovalent alkali metal cations in the zeolite X nanocrystals (K(+), Na(+), and Li(+)), Ca(2+) reduced the acidity of the oil by neutralizing the acidic carboxylate compounds to COO(-)(Ca(2+))1/2 species.

Oil/water/rock wettability: Influencing factors and implications for low salinity water flooding in carbonate reservoirs

DOE PAGES

Chen, Yongqiang; Xie, Quan; Sari, Ahmad; ...

2017-11-21

Wettability of the oil/brine/rock system is an essential petro-physical parameter which governs subsurface multiphase flow behaviour and the distribution of fluids, thus directly affecting oil recovery. Recent studies [1–3] show that manipulation of injected brine composition can enhance oil recovery by shifting wettability from oil-wet to water-wet. However, what factor(s) control system wettability has not been completely elucidated due to incomplete understanding of the geochemical system. To isolate and identify the key factors at play we used in this paper SO 4 2—free solutions to examine the effect of salinity (formation brine/FB, 10 times diluted formation brine/10 dFB, and 100more » times diluted formation brine/100 dFB) on the contact angle of oil droplets at the surface of calcite. We then compared contact angle results with predictions of surface complexation by low salinity water using PHREEQC software. We demonstrate that the conventional dilution approach likely triggers an oil-wet system at low pH, which may explain why the low salinity water EOR-effect is not always observed by injecting low salinity water in carbonated reservoirs. pH plays a fundamental role in the surface chemistry of oil/brine interfaces, and wettability. Our contact angle results show that formation brine triggered a strong water-wet system (35°) at pH 2.55, yet 100 times diluted formation brine led to a strongly oil-wet system (contact angle = 175°) at pH 5.68. Surface complexation modelling correctly predicted the wettability trend with salinity; the bond product sum ([>CaOH 2 +][–COO -] + [>CO 3 -][–NH +] + [>CO 3 -][–COOCa +]) increased with decreasing salinity. Finally, at pH < 6 dilution likely makes the calcite surface oil-wet, particularly for crude oils with high base number. Yet, dilution probably causes water wetness at pH > 7 for crude oils with high acid number.« less

Oil/water/rock wettability: Influencing factors and implications for low salinity water flooding in carbonate reservoirs

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Yongqiang; Xie, Quan; Sari, Ahmad

Wettability of the oil/brine/rock system is an essential petro-physical parameter which governs subsurface multiphase flow behaviour and the distribution of fluids, thus directly affecting oil recovery. Recent studies [1–3] show that manipulation of injected brine composition can enhance oil recovery by shifting wettability from oil-wet to water-wet. However, what factor(s) control system wettability has not been completely elucidated due to incomplete understanding of the geochemical system. To isolate and identify the key factors at play we used in this paper SO 4 2—free solutions to examine the effect of salinity (formation brine/FB, 10 times diluted formation brine/10 dFB, and 100more » times diluted formation brine/100 dFB) on the contact angle of oil droplets at the surface of calcite. We then compared contact angle results with predictions of surface complexation by low salinity water using PHREEQC software. We demonstrate that the conventional dilution approach likely triggers an oil-wet system at low pH, which may explain why the low salinity water EOR-effect is not always observed by injecting low salinity water in carbonated reservoirs. pH plays a fundamental role in the surface chemistry of oil/brine interfaces, and wettability. Our contact angle results show that formation brine triggered a strong water-wet system (35°) at pH 2.55, yet 100 times diluted formation brine led to a strongly oil-wet system (contact angle = 175°) at pH 5.68. Surface complexation modelling correctly predicted the wettability trend with salinity; the bond product sum ([>CaOH 2 +][–COO -] + [>CO 3 -][–NH +] + [>CO 3 -][–COOCa +]) increased with decreasing salinity. Finally, at pH < 6 dilution likely makes the calcite surface oil-wet, particularly for crude oils with high base number. Yet, dilution probably causes water wetness at pH > 7 for crude oils with high acid number.« less

The tissue-type plasminogen activator–plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 complex promotes neurovascular injury in brain trauma: evidence from mice and humans

PubMed Central

Sashindranath, Maithili; Sales, Eunice; Daglas, Maria; Freeman, Roxann; Samson, Andre L.; Cops, Elisa J.; Beckham, Simone; Galle, Adam; McLean, Catriona; Morganti-Kossmann, Cristina; Rosenfeld, Jeffrey V.; Madani, Rime; Vassalli, Jean-Dominique; Su, Enming J.; Lawrence, Daniel A.

2012-01-01

The neurovascular unit provides a dynamic interface between the circulation and central nervous system. Disruption of neurovascular integrity occurs in numerous brain pathologies including neurotrauma and ischaemic stroke. Tissue plasminogen activator is a serine protease that converts plasminogen to plasmin, a protease that dissolves blood clots. Besides its role in fibrinolysis, tissue plasminogen activator is abundantly expressed in the brain where it mediates extracellular proteolysis. However, proteolytically active tissue plasminogen activator also promotes neurovascular disruption after ischaemic stroke; the molecular mechanisms of this process are still unclear. Tissue plasminogen activator is naturally inhibited by serine protease inhibitors (serpins): plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, neuroserpin or protease nexin-1 that results in the formation of serpin:protease complexes. Proteases and serpin:protease complexes are cleared through high-affinity binding to low-density lipoprotein receptors, but their binding to these receptors can also transmit extracellular signals across the plasma membrane. The matrix metalloproteinases are the second major proteolytic system in the mammalian brain, and like tissue plasminogen activators are pivotal to neurological function but can also degrade structures of the neurovascular unit after injury. Herein, we show that tissue plasminogen activator potentiates neurovascular damage in a dose-dependent manner in a mouse model of neurotrauma. Surprisingly, inhibition of activity following administration of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 significantly increased cerebrovascular permeability. This led to our finding that formation of complexes between tissue plasminogen activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 in the brain parenchyma facilitates post-traumatic cerebrovascular damage. We demonstrate that following trauma, the complex binds to low-density lipoprotein receptors, triggering the induction of matrix metalloproteinase-3. Accordingly, pharmacological inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase-3 attenuates neurovascular permeability and improves neurological function in injured mice. Our results are clinically relevant, because concentrations of tissue plasminogen activator: plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 complex and matrix metalloproteinase-3 are significantly elevated in cerebrospinal fluid of trauma patients and correlate with neurological outcome. In a separate study, we found that matrix metalloproteinase-3 and albumin, a marker of cerebrovascular damage, were significantly increased in brain tissue of patients with neurotrauma. Perturbation of neurovascular homeostasis causing oedema, inflammation and cell death is an important cause of acute and long-term neurological dysfunction after trauma. A role for the tissue plasminogen activator–matrix metalloproteinase axis in promoting neurovascular disruption after neurotrauma has not been described thus far. Targeting tissue plasminogen activator: plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 complex signalling or downstream matrix metalloproteinase-3 induction may provide viable therapeutic strategies to reduce cerebrovascular permeability after neurotrauma. PMID:22822039

Use of oil bodies and oleosins in recombinant protein production and other biotechnological applications.

PubMed

Bhatla, S C; Kaushik, V; Yadav, M K

2010-01-01

Oil bodies obtained from oilseeds have been exploited for a variety of applications in biotechnology in the recent past. These applications are based on their non-coalescing nature, ease of extraction and presence of unique membrane proteins-oleosins. In suspension, oil bodies exist as separate entities and, hence, they can serve as emulsifying agent for a wide variety of products, ranging from vaccines, food, cosmetics and personal care products. Oil bodies have found significant uses in the production and purification of recombinant proteins with specific applications. The desired protein can be targeted to oil bodies in oilseeds by affinity tag or by fusing it directly to the N or C terminal of oleosins. Upon targeting, the hydrophobic domain of oleosin embeds into the TAG matrix of oil body, whereas the protein fused with N and/or C termini is exposed on the oil body surface, where it acquires correct confirmation spontaneously. Oil bodies with the attached foreign protein can be separated easily from other cellular components. They can be used directly or the protein can be cleaved from the fusion. The desired protein can be a pharmaceutically important polypeptide (e.g. hirudin, insulin and epidermal growth factor), a neutraceutical polypeptide (somatotropin), a commercially important enzyme (e.g. xylanase), a protein important for improvement of crops (e.g. chitinase) or a multimeric protein. These applications can further be widened as oil bodies can also be made artificially and oleosin gene can be expressed in bacterial systems. Thus, a protein fused to oleosin can be expressed in Escherichia coli and after cell lysis it can be incorporated into artificial oil bodies, thereby facilitating the extraction and purification of the desired protein. Artificial oil bodies can also be used for encapsulation of probiotics. The manipulation of oleosin gene for the expression of polyoleosins has further expanded the arena of the applications of oil bodies in biotechnology. (c) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The analytical transfer matrix method for PT-symmetric complex potential

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naceri, Leila; Hammou, Amine B.

2017-07-01

We have extended the analytical transfer matrix (ATM) method to solve quantum mechanical bound state problems with complex PT-symmetric potentials. Our work focuses on a class of models studied by Bender and Jones, we calculate the energy eigenvalues, discuss the critical values of g and compare the results with those obtained from other methods such as exact numerical computation and WKB approximation method.

Bayesian Multi-Trait Analysis Reveals a Useful Tool to Increase Oil Concentration and to Decrease Toxicity in Jatropha curcas L.

PubMed Central

Silva Junqueira, Vinícius; de Azevedo Peixoto, Leonardo; Galvêas Laviola, Bruno; Lopes Bhering, Leonardo; Mendonça, Simone; Agostini Costa, Tania da Silveira; Antoniassi, Rosemar

2016-01-01

The biggest challenge for jatropha breeding is to identify superior genotypes that present high seed yield and seed oil content with reduced toxicity levels. Therefore, the objective of this study was to estimate genetic parameters for three important traits (weight of 100 seed, oil seed content, and phorbol ester concentration), and to select superior genotypes to be used as progenitors in jatropha breeding. Additionally, the genotypic values and the genetic parameters estimated under the Bayesian multi-trait approach were used to evaluate different selection indices scenarios of 179 half-sib families. Three different scenarios and economic weights were considered. It was possible to simultaneously reduce toxicity and increase seed oil content and weight of 100 seed by using index selection based on genotypic value estimated by the Bayesian multi-trait approach. Indeed, we identified two families that present these characteristics by evaluating genetic diversity using the Ward clustering method, which suggested nine homogenous clusters. Future researches must integrate the Bayesian multi-trait methods with realized relationship matrix, aiming to build accurate selection indices models. PMID:27281340

Influence of medium-chain triglycerides on expansion and rheological properties of extruded corn starch.

PubMed

Horvat, Mario; Emin, M Azad; Hochstein, Bernhard; Willenbacher, Norbert; Schuchmann, Heike Petra

2013-04-02

Enhancement of product properties of extruded starch based products can be achieved by incorporating health promoting oil into the matrix. In order to achieve a preferably high expansion with a homogeneous pore structure, the expansion mechanisms have to be understood. In our study, we applied a customized twin-screw extruder set up to feed medium-chain triglycerides after complete gelatinization of corn starch, minimizing its effect on the starch gelatinization. Despite the fact, that the addition of up to 3.5% oil showed no influence on the extrusion parameters, we observed a three-fold increase in sectional expansion. Longitudinal expansion was less affected by the oil content. Rheological properties of the gelatinized starch were measured using an inline slit die rheometer. In addition to shear viscosity, we presented a method to determine the Bagley pressure, which reflects the elongational properties of a fluid. We were able to observe an increase in the Bagley pressure from about 25 bar up to 35-37 bar due to the addition of oil. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.