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1.
J Texture Stud ; 55(4): e12854, 2024 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38960864

ABSTRACT

The effect of varying extrusion conditions on the functional properties of hulless barley-mung bean (70:30) extruded snacks was investigated using response surface methodology with feed moisture (FM), barrel temperature (BT), and screw speed (SS) as process variables. Results revealed significant impacts on functional characteristics with varying extrusion conditions. Bulk density (BD) of extruded snacks ranged from 0.24 to 0.42 g/cm3, showing that lower FM and higher BT results in lower BD while it increased with increasing FM, SS, and BT. The expansion ratio (ER) of extruded snacks ranged between 2.03 and 2.33, showing BT and SS had a desirable positive effect, whereas increasing FM led to decreased ER. Increasing BT and SS depicted a negative effect on water absorption index, whereas FM showed positive effect, which ranged between 4.21 and 4.82 g/g. A positive effect on water solubility index was depicted by BT and SS, which ranges between 9.01% and 13.45%, as higher SS and BT led to starch degradation and increased solubility suggesting better digestibility. The hardness of extruded snacks ranged from 32.56 to 66.88 Newton (N), showing increasing FM increased hardness, whereas higher SS and BT resulted in lowering the hardness. Scanning electronic microscope (SEM) analysis revealed structural changes in extrudates in comparison with nonextruded flour, indicating starch gelatinization and pore formation affected by varying processing parameters. Shifts in absorption bands were observed in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), suggesting structural changes in starch and protein. Understanding the effects of extrusion parameters on product properties can help tailored production to meet consumers' preferences and the development of functional snacks with improved nutritional quality.


Subject(s)
Food Handling , Hordeum , Snacks , Solubility , Vigna , Water , Food Handling/methods , Vigna/chemistry , Hardness , Flour/analysis , Temperature , Starch/chemistry
2.
Vestn Oftalmol ; 140(3): 34-42, 2024.
Article in Russian | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38962977

ABSTRACT

Standard bacteriological examinations, which involve culturing microorganisms at 37 °C, are commonly used in clinical practice for diagnosing infectious diseases. However, the growth temperature of microorganisms on the ocular surface (OS) during infectious keratitis (IK) may not coincide with the laboratory standard, which is due to the characteristic features of heat exchange in the eye. PURPOSE: This exploratory study examines the distribution and properties of OS microorganisms isolated under different temperature cultivation conditions in patients with IK and healthy volunteers without ophthalmic pathology. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Fifteen participants were divided into two groups. Group 1 (n=10) consisted of patients with signs of unilateral infectious keratitis, while group 2 (n=5) served as the control group. A novel microbiological method was employed to isolate pure cultures of microorganisms. This method involved cultivating microorganisms at two temperature regimes (37 °C and 24 °C) and subsequently identifying them using biochemical, immunological, and physicochemical techniques, including mass spectrometry. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with lanthanide staining used as the reference method. The temperature status of the ocular surface was assessed using non-contact infrared thermography. RESULTS: The study demonstrated the presence of psychrotolerant microorganisms on the ocular surface, which exhibited growth at a relatively low temperature of 24 °C. These psychrotolerant microorganisms were found to be isolated from the ocular surface displaying signs of temperature dysregulation. Among such microorganisms are Acinetobacter lwoffii, Achromobacter xylosoxidans, Bacillus licheniformis, Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Micrococcus luteus, Pseudomonas luteola, Streptococcus spp. CONCLUSION: When identifying the causative agent of infectious keratitis, it is crucial to consider the divergence of growth temperature of ocular surface microorganisms. The presence of psychrotolerant microorganisms on the ocular surface, which can effectively grow at room temperature, should be taken into account, especially in cases of temperature dysregulation.


Subject(s)
Eye Infections, Bacterial , Keratitis , Humans , Keratitis/microbiology , Keratitis/diagnosis , Male , Female , Eye Infections, Bacterial/microbiology , Eye Infections, Bacterial/diagnosis , Adult , Middle Aged , Temperature , Cornea/microbiology , Thermography/methods
3.
J Cell Sci ; 2024 Jul 04.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38962997

ABSTRACT

Lipid droplets (LDs) are organelles central to lipid and energy homeostasis across all eukaryotes. In the malaria-causing parasite Plasmodium falciparum the roles of LDs in lipid acquisition from its host cells and their metabolism are poorly understood, despite the high demand for lipids in parasite membrane synthesis. We systematically characterised LD size, composition and dynamics across the disease-causing blood infection. Applying split fluorescence emission analysis and 3D Focused Ion Beam-Scanning Electron Microscopy, we observed a decrease in LD size in late schizont stages. LD contraction likely signifies a switch from lipid accumulation to lipid utilisation in preparation for parasite egress from host red blood cells. We demonstrate connections between LDs and several parasite organelles, pointing to potential functional interactions. Chemical inhibition of triacylglyerol (TAG) synthesis or break-down revealed essential LD functions for schizogony and in counteracting lipid toxicity. The dynamics of lipid synthesis, storage and utilisation in P. falciparum LDs might provide a target for new anti-malarial intervention strategies.

4.
J Environ Manage ; 365: 121636, 2024 Jul 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38955039

ABSTRACT

Exploring the mismatch between supply and demand (SD) for carbon sequestration services (CSS) is essential for achieving the "double carbon" goal. However, more studies are needed on the traits of the spatial mismatch between SD in mountainous cities. We used the CASA model and the IPCC emission factor approach to address this issue and quantify the SD of CSS in Chongqing. Second, we established a matching relationship model for the SD of CSS in Chongqing. Finally, we applied the Structural Equation Model with the Partial Dependence Plots model to reveal the influencing factors and internal mechanisms of spatial mismatch between the SD of CSS in Chongqing. The outcomes confirmed a decrease in fashion in the total supply of CSS in Chongqing and growth in fashion in general demand from 2000 to 2020. The SD mismatch was mainly concentrated inside the central city and other built-up areas. The SD mismatch area had increased by 390%, indicating a continuous upward trend. In exploring the factors influencing the mismatch between the SD of CSS in Chongqing, supply is mainly positively influenced by NDVI, and demand and supply-demand relationships are influenced by population density and LUCC. We proposed policy suggestions to alleviate the spatial mismatch and practical significance for achieving the "double carbon" goal and promoting sustainable development.

5.
Food Chem ; 457: 139843, 2024 May 29.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38955120

ABSTRACT

Dried-bonito (Katsuobushi) exhibits a unique uniform "glass-like" texture after traditional smoke-drying. Herein, we developed a novel processing method for dried-bonito and elucidated the mechanism of transformation of loose muscle into a "glass-like" texture in terms of texture, microstructure, and protein properties. Our findings showed that the unfolding and aggregation of proteins after thermal induction was a key factor in shaping the "glass-like" texture in bonito muscle. During processing, myofibrils aggregated, the originally alternating thick and thin filaments contracted laterally and aligned into a straight line, and protein cross-linking increased. Secondary structural analysis revealed a reduction in unstable ß-turn content from 26.28% to 15.06%. Additionally, an increase in the content of SS bonds was observed, and the conformation changed from g-g-t to a stable g-g-g conformation, enhanced protein conformational stability. Taken together, our findings provide a theoretical basis for understanding the mechanism of formation of the uniform "glass-like" texture in dried-bonito.

6.
Sci Rep ; 14(1): 15339, 2024 07 03.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38961115

ABSTRACT

Given the hierarchical nature of bone and bone interfaces, osseointegration, namely the formation of a direct bone-implant contact, is best evaluated using a multiscale approach. However, a trade-off exists between field of view and spatial resolution, making it challenging to image large volumes with high resolution. In this study, we combine established electron microscopy techniques to probe bone-implant interfaces at the microscale and nanoscale with plasma focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy (PFIB-SEM) tomography to evaluate osseointegration at the mesoscale. This characterization workflow is demonstrated for bone response to an additively manufactured Ti-6Al-4V implant which combines engineered porosity to facilitate bone ingrowth and surface functionalization via genistein, a phytoestrogen, to counteract bone loss in osteoporosis. SEM demonstrated new bone formation at the implant site, including in the internal implant pores. At the nanoscale, scanning transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed the gradual nature of the bone-implant interface. By leveraging mesoscale analysis with PFIB-SEM tomography that captures large volumes of bone-implant interface with nearly nanoscale resolution, the presence of mineral ellipsoids varying in size and orientation was revealed. In addition, a well-developed lacuno-canalicular network and mineralization fronts directed both towards the implant and away from it were highlighted.


Subject(s)
Genistein , Osseointegration , Titanium , Osseointegration/drug effects , Genistein/pharmacology , Genistein/chemistry , Titanium/chemistry , Animals , Coated Materials, Biocompatible/chemistry , Bone-Implant Interface , Microscopy, Electron, Scanning , Prostheses and Implants , Porosity , Alloys/chemistry
7.
Environ Res ; : 119568, 2024 Jul 04.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38971357

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to synthesize effective and economical MoS2/CdNi@rGO photocatalysts and investigate their performance in the degradation of organic pollutants in synthetic effluent. The objective was to assess the characterization results of the synthesized photocatalysts using XRD, SEM/EDS, TEM/HR-TEM, Raman spectrum, and BET isotherm analysis tools. These analyses revealed the good adhesion of MoS2 with rGO and provided insights into the structure and properties of the materials. The results showed that the MoS2/CdNi@rGO photocatalysts exhibited remarkable degradation efficiency for organic pollutants such as Rhodamine-B, erichrome black, and malachite green. The outcomes of the study demonstrated that the MoS2/CdNi@rGO catalyst had the greatest rate constant for Rhodamine-B (RhB) decomposition. which would have been approximately 33 times higher than that of pure RGO (0.0121 min-1). The MoS2/CdNi@rGO photocatalysts also showed excellent recyclability and persistence across five recycle assays, indicating their potential for practical applications in wastewater treatment. The photocatalyst was moderately active, stable up to its fifth usage and stability of the photocatalyst before and after the photocatalytic reaction was also been studied using XRD and SEM. Further research in this area could lead to the development of advanced photocatalytic technologies for environmental remediation.

8.
J Struct Biol X ; 9: 100102, 2024 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38962493

ABSTRACT

Microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) has emerged as a powerful technique for unraveling molecular structures from microcrystals too small for X-ray diffraction. However, a significant hurdle arises with plate-like crystals that consistently orient themselves flat on the electron microscopy grid. If the normal of the plate correlates with the axes of the crystal lattice, the crystal orientations accessible for measurement are restricted because the crystal cannot be arbitrarily rotated. This limits the information that can be acquired, resulting in a missing cone of information. We recently introduced a novel crystallization strategy called suspended drop crystallization and proposed that crystals in a suspended drop could effectively address the challenge of preferred crystal orientation. Here we demonstrate the success of the suspended drop approach in eliminating the missing cone in two samples that crystallize as thin plates: bovine liver catalase and the SARS­CoV­2 main protease (Mpro). This innovative solution proves indispensable for crystals exhibiting systematic preferred orientations, unlocking new possibilities for structure determination by MicroED.

9.
Food Chem X ; 23: 101539, 2024 Oct 30.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38974193

ABSTRACT

The study addresses global fruit waste concerns in the food industry by extracting pectin from both ripe and unripe banana peels at varying pH levels and time intervals using hydrochloric acid. The best results were observed for unripe banana peel pectin at pH 1.5 and 250 min exhibiting a yield of 16.46% and favorable characteristics. In muffin development, seven treatments (M0, M1, M2, M3, M4, M5 and M6) are prepared and analyzed for morphology, nutritional content, and sensory parameters. The M4 treatment, utilizing pectin from unripe banana peel at pH 1.5 and 250 min, displays superior qualities with reduced peroxide value, free fatty acids, percent moisture loss, and hardness. Sensory evaluations indicate high acceptability due to lower fat content. In conclusion, the extraction of pectin from unripe banana peels proves promising as a fat replacer in bakery items, maintaining muffin quality while addressing fruit waste challenges in the food industry.

10.
Zookeys ; 1205: 169-189, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38957218

ABSTRACT

Diapausing embryos encased within cladoceran ephippia result from sexual reproduction and increase genetic diversity. They are also important means by which species bypass harsh environmental conditions and disperse in space and time. Once released, ephippia usually sink to the benthos and remain there until hatching. Using the Sars' method (incubating sediments to identify cladoceran hatchlings), ephippial egg bank biodiversity can be evaluated. Yet, even when samples are incubated under a variety of conditions, it is not possible to warrant that all have hatched. Few keys are available that facilitate the identification of cladocerans by using only ephippial morphology. Our goal was to analyze some cladoceran ephippia from Mexico, to develop a means to identify them using easily recognizable characteristics. Ephippia of 23 cladoceran species from waters in Aguascalientes (México) in 11 genera (Alona, Biapertura, Ceriodaphnia, Chydorus, Daphnia, Dunhevedia, Ilyocryptus, Macrothrix, Moina, Pleuroxus, and Simocephalus) were analyzed. In our analysis six morphological features were selected that permitted the identification of ephippia to species(-group) level. The results demonstrate that with a proper catalog of features, some ephippia can be identified.

11.
Zookeys ; 1205: 51-88, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38947165

ABSTRACT

In this work, the diversity of the genus Orbiniella in the Nordic Seas and the North Atlantic waters south of Iceland is studied based on the analyses of molecular markers (mitochondrial COI, 16S rDNA and nuclear ITS2) and morphological characters. Our results showed the presence of at least five genetic lineages in the studied material which could also be morphologically identified by their segmental annulation patterns, the number and the shape of acicular spines, and the length and the shape of pygidial lobes. The species name Orbiniellapetersenae is assigned to one of the lineages restricting its geographical and vertical distribution to the deep-sea areas north of Iceland and Jan Mayen, and three lineages are described as new species (i.e., Orbiniellagriegi Meca & Budaeva, sp. nov., Orbiniellamayhemi Meca & Budaeva, sp. nov., and Orbiniellaparapari Meca & Budaeva, sp. nov.) elevating the number of known species in the genus to 25. Three deep-sea species of Orbiniella in our study are reported only north of the Greenland-Iceland-Scotland Ridge, one deep-sea species found south of the ridge. A single shallow-water species is distributed along the ridge and on the Norwegian shelf.

12.
Forensic Sci Int ; 361: 112135, 2024 Jul 04.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38972145

ABSTRACT

Understanding the presence, transfer dynamics and depletion of gunshot residues (GSR) on various surfaces is crucial for preserving evidence, reconstructing shooting incidents, and linking suspects to crime scenes. This study aims to explore the transfer and loss of GSR on commonly encountered surfaces such as ceramic, glass, metal, paper, and plastic, as well as the influence of different common hand cleaning methods on secondary transfer. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and automated detection software, we quantified highly indicative three-component characteristic particles (lead, barium, and antimony) on cups made from ceramic, glass, metal, paper, and plastic. Furthermore, we evaluated the amount of secondary transferred particles on these surfaces following various post-discharge hand cleaning methods: washing with water and soap, washing with only water, wiping with wet wipes, or using paper towels. The results demonstrate that counts of secondarily transferred GSR particles vary significantly among surfaces. Specifically, the transferred GSR count was highest on paper, followed by plastic, ceramic, metal, and glass respectively. Post-discharge hand cleaning methods, including washing with water and soap, washing with only water, cleaning with wet wipes, or with paper towel, resulted in substantial loss of GSR count on transferred surfaces. Among these methods, washing with water and soap showed the highest depletion. The empirical evidence provided by our results underscores the importance of considering surface properties, post-shooting activities, and the methods of sample collection and analysis when interpreting transferred GSR analysis. Despite challenges, these insights enhance our ability to link suspects to shooting crimes through careful consideration of the entire context.

13.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38973302

ABSTRACT

Toxocariasis is a zoonotic parasitic infection with worldwide distribution and high impact on human health. It has a limited clinical resolution with the available drugs, making it challenging to treat. Quercetin, which possesses biological and pharmacological qualities including antiparasitic, antioxidant, and anticancer activities, is a possible substitute for the current medications. Marine invertebrates can produce a vast array of different molecules, many of which are biologically active substances with distinct characteristics. In this study, we assessed the in vitro nematocidal effect of both quercetin and venom of Cassiopea andromeda (jellyfish) against third larvae of Toxocara canis. In microplates with Roswell Park Memorial Institute-1640 medium, larvae were incubated with ethanolic extract of quercetin (0.01, 0.02, 0.05, 0.08, 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5 mM/mL) and water extract of C. andromeda venom (15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and 60 µg/mL) to evaluate their larvicidal effect. A scanning electron microscopy has investigated the possible effect of lethal concentration (LC90) of both extracts on the body wall of cultivated larvae, in comparison with those cultivated in albendazole. Our study revealed the effects of both quercetin and C. andromeda venom exposure on the mortality rate and the ultrastructure of T. canis third larva in comparison with control and albendazole-treated groups.

14.
Front Psychol ; 15: 1326746, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38979071

ABSTRACT

Enhancing learning engagement is a critical challenge in online education. While previous research underscores the importance of feedback, recent studies have shifted focus to students' perceptions of feedback, which significantly impact learning performance. However, empirical evidence on how these perceptions affect online learning outcomes is limited. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory, this study addresses this gap by employing SEM to analyze the relationships among feedback perception, academic self-efficacy, test anxiety, and online learning engagement. A total of 402 Chinese vocational college students (ages 18-19) completed questionnaires, with statistical analysis conducted using SPSS and Mplus. The study found that perception of feedback directly influences online learning engagement and indirectly affects it through academic self-efficacy and test anxiety, with a total effect value of 0.416. The findings offer valuable insights for educators and suggest directions for future research on feedback perception and online learning engagement.

15.
Behav Genet ; 2024 Jul 09.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38981971

ABSTRACT

Externalizing behaviors encompass manifestations of risk-taking, self-regulation, aggression, sensation-/reward-seeking, and impulsivity. Externalizing research often includes substance use (SUB), substance use disorder (SUD), and other (non-SUB/SUD) "behavioral disinhibition" (BD) traits. Genome-wide and twin research have pointed to overlapping genetic architecture within and across SUB, SUD, and BD. We created single-factor measurement models-each describing SUB, SUD, or BD traits-based on mutually exclusive sets of European ancestry genome-wide association study (GWAS) statistics exploring externalizing variables. We then assessed the partitioning of genetic covariance among the three facets using correlated factors models and Cholesky decomposition. Even when the residuals for indicators relating to the same substance were correlated across the SUB and SUD factors, the two factors yielded a large correlation (rg = 0.803). BD correlated strongly with the SUD (rg = 0.774) and SUB (rg = 0.778) factors. In our initial decompositions, 33% of total BD variance remained after partialing out SUD and SUB. The majority of covariance between BD and SUB and between BD and SUD was shared across all factors, and, within these models, only a small fraction of the total variation in BD operated via an independent pathway with SUD or SUB outside of the other factor. When only nicotine/tobacco, cannabis, and alcohol were included for the SUB/SUD factors, their correlation increased to rg = 0.861; in corresponding decompositions, BD-specific variance decreased to 27%. Further research can better elucidate the properties of BD-specific variation by exploring its genetic/molecular correlates.

16.
BMC Psychol ; 12(1): 384, 2024 Jul 09.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38982552

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: This theoretical model has been drawn on principles of social exchange theory to scrutinize the connection between organizational virtuousness and job performance with the mediating role of Organizational citizenship behavior and moderating role of workplace ostracism. A survey was conducted in Pakistan, gathering data from 486 employees working for various private and commercial banks. METHOD: Soft and hard questionnaires were distributed to the participants, with social media platforms used for the soft questionnaires and meetings with employees for the hard questionnaires. A 7-point Likert scale was employed in data collection, and measures for the variables were adapted from reliable and valid sources. A demographic analysis was performed to summarize the sample collected from participants. The demographics results were analyzed using SPSS, while the measurement model and path analysis were conducted using Structural Equational Modeling with Smart PLS-4. RESULTS: The study's findings showed a significant and positive relationship between organizational virtuousness and job performance, with organizational citizenship behavior serving as a mediator. Additionally, a negative moderation of workplace ostracism was observed in the mediation of organizational citizenship behavior toward the relationship between organizational virtuousness and job performance. CONCLUSION: The study's results contribute to the implementation of social exchange theory and related concepts in the banking sector of Pakistan, providing practical guidance for implementing virtuous practices within organizations and discouraging ostracism in banks to enhance overall performance. The study suggests that policies regarding the implementation of virtuous practices in organizations can be established, and workplace ostracism can be avoided by providing a platform for social gatherings and training employees. Managers should adopt appropriate leadership styles and relevant communication patterns to impact the organizational climate which can also help reduce the influence of ostracism in the organization. Additionally, a complaint cell should be established with complete confidentiality to reduce ostracism.


Subject(s)
Organizational Culture , Work Performance , Humans , Adult , Female , Pakistan , Male , Workplace/psychology , Workplace/organization & administration , Surveys and Questionnaires , Social Behavior , Middle Aged , Latent Class Analysis , Young Adult
17.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38984990

ABSTRACT

The urgent challenges posed by the energy crisis, alongside the heat dissipation of advanced electronics, have embarked on a rising demand for the development of highly thermally conductive polymer composites. Electrospun composite mats, known for their flexibility, permeability, high concentration and orientational degree of conductive fillers, stand out as one of the prime candidates for addressing this need. This study explores the efficacy of boron nitride (BN) and its potential alternative, silicon nitride (SiN) nanoparticles, in enhancing the thermal performance of the electrospun composite thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) fibers and mats. The 3D reconstructed models obtained from FIB-SEM imaging provided valuable insights into the morphology of the composite fibers, aiding the interpretation of the measured thermal performance through scanning thermal microscopy for the individual composite fibers and infrared thermography for the composite mats. Notably, we found that TPU-SiN fibers exhibit superior heat conduction compared to TPU-BN fibers, with up to a 6 °C higher surface temperature observed in mats coated on copper pipes. Our results underscore the crucial role of arrangement of nanoparticles and fiber morphology in improving heat conduction in the electrospun composites. Moreover, SiN nanoparticles are introduced as a more suitable filler for heat conduction enhancement of electrospun TPU fibers and mats, suggesting immense potential for smart textiles and thermal management applications.

18.
Mol Biochem Parasitol ; : 111646, 2024 Jun 29.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38950658

ABSTRACT

The study aimed to conduct in vitro biological assessments of hydantoin and thiohydantoin compounds against mature Schistosoma mansoni worms, evaluate their cytotoxic effects and predict their pharmacokinetic parameters using computational methods. The compounds showed low in vitro cytotoxicity and were not considered hemolytic. Antiparasitic activity against adult S. mansoni worms was tested with all compounds at concentrations ranging from 200 to 6.25µM. Compounds SC01, SC02, and SC03 exhibited low activity. Compounds SC04, SC05, SC06 and SC07 caused 100% mortality within 24h of incubation at a concentration of 100 and 200µM. Thiohydantoin SC04 exhibited the highest activity, resulting in 100% mortality after 24h of incubation at a concentration of 50µM and IC50 of 28µM. In the ultrastructural analysis (SEM), the compound SC04 (200µM) induced integumentary changes, formation of integumentary blisters, and destruction of tubercles and spicules. Therefore, the SC04 compound shows promise as an antiparasitic against S. mansoni.

19.
Front Psychol ; 15: 1384635, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38957883

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The development of advanced sewage technologies empowers the industry to produce high-quality recycled water, which greatly influences human's life and health. Thus, this study investigates the mechanism of individuals' adoption of recycled water from the technology adoption perspective. Methods: Employing the mixed method of structural equation modeling and artificial neural network analysis, we examined a research model developed from the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) framework. To examine the research model, this study employs a leading web-survey company (Sojump) to collect 308 valid samples from the residents in mainland China. Results: The structural equation modeling results verified the associations between the six predictors (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, environmental motivation, and price value), individuals' cognitive and emotional attitudes, and acceptance intention. The artificial neural network analysis validates and complements the structural equation modeling results by unveiling the importance rank of the significant determinants of the acceptance decisions. Discussion: The study provides theoretical implications for recycled water research and useful insights for practitioners and policymakers to reduce the environmental hazards of water scarcity.

20.
J Hazard Mater ; 476: 135127, 2024 Jul 07.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38986417

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs), especially polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs), have emerged a new worldwide pollutant, prompting significant public concern regarding their detection in environmental media. Analysis of PS-MPs in soil remains as a challenging task for analysts due to the highly intricate matrices. This work presents a practical approach for detecting PS-MPs in soil, which involves dilute HCl-assisted extraction and gel permeation chromatography- ultraviolet detection (GPC-UV) analysis. The presence of MPs in soil was confirmed through the use of a scanning electron microscope in conjunction with energy dispersive spectroscopy investigation. PS-MPs was isolated from soil, by agitating it with a diluted HCl solution, filtering the resulting liquid, and dissolving the residue on the filter with THF. The extractant was subsequently determined by GPC-UV. The introduction of a small amount of HCl into the extraction system was found to greatly expedite the settling of soil in water and enhance the efficacy of extracting PS-MPs in about 30 min. The linear range of PS-MPs was from 1.0 to 100 µg/mL with R2 > 0.999. Good reproducibility was obtained with the intra-day relative standard deviation (RSD, n = 3) of 1.36 % and the inter-day RSD (n = 3) of 4.78 %. The concentration of PS-MPs in soil samples were N.D. - 2.33 µg/g, and the good recoveries were 76.7-100.3 %. The corresponding AFGEEprer score was calculated to be 0.59, indicating the concept of green analytical chemistry for the pretreatment method. These results indicated that this method has a powerful potential for the accurate and rapid determination of PS-MPs in soil.

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