Performance and emission analysis of cassava peel waste pyrolysis oil-hydrogen-diesel blends in a compression ignition engine.

As the world moves away from fossil fuels and embraces sustainable energy sources, the need for sustainable fuels for transportation becomes paramount. This study investigates the effects of pyrolysis oil derived from cassava peel waste (CPO), hydrogen (H), and diesel (D) blends as a partial substitute for low-displacement compression ignition engines. We tested three blends - CPO25, CPO25H5, and CPO25H10 - against neat diesel operation at engine speeds of 3400 rpm, 3600 rpm, and 3800 rpm and torques of 4 Nm, 6 Nm, and 8 Nm. Our findings reveal that while energy efficiency decreased with CPO25 compared to D100 operation, adding H2 increased energy efficiency. The highest increase was 7.8 % for CPO25H5 and 16 % for CPO25H10 compared to CPO25. Exergy efficiency also decreased with CPO25 compared to D100, but adding H2 compensated for this reduction. The highest increase was 8.0 % for CPO25H5 and 17 % for CPO25H10 compared to D100. CPO25H10 showed an increase of 8.1 % in combustion pressure and 9.9 % in heat release rate compared to CPO25. Emissions analysis also revealed that CO emissions were considerably lower with CPO and H2 than with D100, with the highest decrease of 11 % with CPO25H10. CO2 and hydrocarbon emissions followed the same trend as CO. Although NOx emissions slightly increased, the benefits of using pyrolysis oil-H2-diesel blends as a partial substitution fuel for low-displacement compression ignition engines are evident.

Circular fertilisers combining dehydrated human urine and organic wastes can fulfil the macronutrient demand of 15 major crops.

This study evaluated the potential for combining dehydrated human urine with one other form of organic waste to create circular fertilisers tailored to meet the macronutrient demand of 15 major crops cultivated globally. Through a reverse blending modelling approach, data on 359 different organic wastes were used to identify 38 fertiliser blends. Materials found to be particularly suitable as blending materials were various biochars and ashes, due to their low nitrogen and high phosphorus and/or potassium content, and byproduct concentrates, due to their high phosphorus content, since the nitrogen content of human urine is disproportionately higher than its phosphorus content. Several organic wastes were suitable for fertilising more than one crop. The macronutrient content of the simulated fertiliser blends was comparable to that of blended inorganic fertilisers, but only a few blends precisely matched the macronutrient demand of crops. Fertilising crops with some simulated fertilisers would potentially result in excess application of one or more macronutrients, and thus overfertilisation. For organic wastes with data available on their content of six or more heavy metals, it was found that the simulated fertilisers generally met European Union regulations on use of fertilisers of organic origin in agriculture. Overall, these findings suggest that fertiliser blends combining dehydrated human urine and organic wastes, both of which are widely available globally, could replace inorganic blended fertilisers in agriculture. Such recycling would help the global food system and water sector transition to circularity and promote better management of plant-essential nutrients in society.

Characterization of Polylactic Acid Biocomposites Filled with Native Starch Granules from Dioscorea remotiflora Tubers.

Biocomposites were fabricated utilizing polylactic acid (PLA) combined with native starch sourced from mountain's yam (Dioscorea remotiflora Knuth), an underexplored tuber variety. Different starch compositions (7.5, 15.0, 22.5, and 30.0 wt.%) were blended with PLA in a batch mixer at 160 °C to produce PLA/starch biocomposites. The biocomposites were characterized by analyzing their morphology, particle size distribution, thermal, X-ray diffraction (XDR), mechanical, and dynamic mechanical (DMA) properties, water absorption behavior, and color. The results showed that the amylose content of Dioscorea remotiflora starch was 48.43 ± 1.4%, which corresponds to a high-amylose starch (>30% of amylose). Particle size analysis showed large z-average particle diameters (Dz0) of the starch granules (30.59 ± 3.44 µm). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed oval-shaped granules evenly distributed throughout the structure of the biocomposite, without observable agglomeration or damage to its structure. XDR and DMA analyses revealed an increase in the crystallinity of the biocomposites as the proportion of the starch increased. The tensile modulus (E) underwent a reduction, whereas the flexural modulus (Eflex) increased with the amount of starch incorporated. The biocomposites with the highest Eflex were those with a starch content of 22.5 wt.%, which increased by 8.7% compared to the neat PLA. The water absorption of the biocomposites demonstrated a higher uptake capacity as the starch content increased. The rate of water absorption in the biocomposites followed the principles of Fick's Law. The novelty of this work lies in its offering an alternative for the use of high-amylose mountain's yam starch to produce low-cost bioplastics for different applications.

The visual and instrumental analyses of different single-shade resin composites / Análisis visual e instrumental de diferentes resinas compuestas omnicromáticas

Abstract The purpose of this study was to evaluate the color adaptation of single-shade resin composites applied to different tooth shades. A total of 108 class III preparations (n=6) were performed on the acrylic denture maxillary incisors (2mm depth and 2mm height). 5 single-shade resin composites (Vittra APS Unique, Omnichroma, ZenChroma, Clearfil Majesty ES-2 Universal, Charisma Topaz One) and 1 multishade resin composite (Estelite Asteria) were placed in the cavities and polished. I performed visual and instrumental color analyses. The CIEDE2000 formula was used to assess the shade differences (ΔE) between teeth and restorations. The obtained ΔE values were recorded and statistically analyzed. For the instrumental analysis, ZenChroma in A1 shade groups showed statistically significant higher differences (p<0.05). Among all tested materials, A3 shade groups showed lower ΔE values (p<0.05). For the visual analysis, there were no significant differences between materials and scores in A1 and A3 shade groups (p>0.05). There were statistically significant differences between the materials and the scores in A2 shade groups (p<0.05). As a result of this study, it was concluded that, making esthetic restorations with single-shade resin composites promises proper color adaptation, but their properties still need improvement. Single-shade resin composites can reduce chair-time and technical sensitivity with good color matching.

Resumen El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la adaptación del color de resinas compuestas omnicromáticas. Se realizaron un total de 108 preparaciones de clase III (n=6) en los incisivos superiores de prótesis acrílicas (2mm de profundidad y 2mm de altura). Se colocaron cinco resinas compuestas omnicromáticas (Vittra APS Unique, Omnichroma, ZenChroma, Clearfil Majesty ES-2 Universal, Charisma Topaz One), además de una resina multitono (Estelite Asteria) en las cavidades y se pulieron. Se realizó el análisis de color visual e instrumental. Se utilizó la fórmula CIEDE2000 para evaluar las diferencias de tono (ΔE) entre dientes y restauraciones. Los valores de ΔE obtenidos se registraron y analizaron estadísticamente. Para el análisis instrumental, ZenChroma en los grupos de color A1 mostró diferencias mayores estadísticamente significativas (p<0,05). Entre todos los materiales probados, los grupos de tonos A3 mostraron valores de ΔE más bajos (p<0.05). Para el análisis visual, no hubo diferencias significativas entre materiales y puntuaciones en los grupos de color A1 y A3 (p>0,05). Hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre los materiales y las puntuaciones en los grupos de color A2 (p<0,05). Como resultado de este estudio, se concluyó que la realización de restauraciones estéticas con resinas compuestas omnicromáticas promueve una adecuada adaptación del color, pero aún necesitan mejorar sus propiedades. Las resinas compuetas omnicromáticas pueden reducir el tiempo de atención clínica y la sensibilidad técnica con una adecuada combinación de colores.

Color matching and color recovery in large composite restorations using single-shade or universal composites

Abstract This study assessed the color-matching ability and color recovery of unprepared teeth when using single-shade composites and a universal composite in large restorations. Buccal and palatine surface colors of molars were measured with a spectrophotometer (CIELAB) before preparing round cavities (6 mm in diameter, 2 mm in depth). The cavities were randomly filled with a single-shade composite (Omnichroma, Diamond One, or Vittra APS Unique) or a universal composite (Filtek Universal). Color measurements of the restored cavities were taken, and overall color differences (ΔEab and ΔE00) and differences in the whitening index for dentistry (ΔWID) from baseline were calculated. Additionally, visual assessments of a color match to the surrounding enamel were performed by forty evaluators (laypersons and undergraduate students of dentistry) in a viewing booth under illuminant D65, with rating scores from 0 (no color mismatch) to 4 (not acceptable). Data were analyzed using RM or one-way ANOVA (α = 0.05). Results showed that the restorations generally exhibited whiter colors (WID ranged from 27.9 to 41.3) than the unprepared teeth (WID ranged from 15.9 to 19.3). The composite Filtek Universal demonstrated the lowest color discrepancy (ΔWID = 8.6; ΔE00 = 10.8; and ΔE00 = 6.2), and no significant differences were observed among the evaluated single-shade composites. Furthermore, all composites showed similar and adequate color matches to the surrounding enamel. However, it is important to note that despite their ability to match the surrounding enamel reasonably, none of the composites evaluated in large restorations fully recovered the color observed in unprepared teeth.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou a habilidade de combinação de cores e recuperação de cor de dentes não preparados ao utilizar resinas compostas de única tonalidade e uma resina composta universal em grandes restaurações. As cores das superfícies bucais e palatinas de molares foram medidas com um espectrofotômetro (CIELAB) antes de preparar cavidades esféricas (6 mm de diâmetro, 2 mm de profundidade). As cavidades foram preenchidas aleatoriamente com uma resina composta de única tonalidade (Omnichroma, Diamond One ou Vittra APS Unique) ou com uma resina composta universal (Filtek Universal). Foram realizadas medições das cores das cavidades restauradas e calculadas as diferenças de cor globais (ΔEab and ΔE00)) e as diferenças no índice de clareamento para odontologia (ΔWID) em relação à cor inicial. Além disso, foram realizadas avaliações visuais da correspondência de cor com o esmalte circundante por quarenta avaliadores (leigos e estudantes de odontologia) em uma cabine de visualização sob iluminante D65, com pontuações de 0 (nenhuma discrepância de cor) a 4 (não aceitável). Os dados foram analisados usando RM ou ANOVA unidirecional (α = 0,05). Os resultados mostraram que as restaurações geralmente apresentavam cores mais brancas (WID variou de 27,9 a 41,3) do que os dentes não preparados (WID variou de 15,9 a 19,3). A resina composta Filtek Universal demonstrou a menor discrepância de cor (ΔWID = 8,6; ΔE00 = 10,8; and ΔE00 = 6,2), e não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre as resinas compostas de única tonalidade avaliadas. Além disso, todas as resinas compostas apresentaram correspondência de cor similar e adequada com o esmalte circundante. No entanto, é importante observar que, apesar de sua capacidade de corresponder razoavelmente com o esmalte circundante, nenhuma das resinas compostas avaliadas em grandes restaurações recuperou completamente a cor observada nos dentes não preparados.

Surrounding and background shades effect on color adjustment of single-shade composites

Abstract This study evaluated the effects of surrounding and background shades on the color adjustment potential (CAP) and visual color match of two single-shade composites, Vittra APS Unique and Charisma Diamond One. Cylinder-shaped specimens were constructed, consisting of either single-shade composites alone (simple) or composites surrounded by the Forma material at shades A1 or A3 (dual). Simple specimens using only the Forma at the specified shades were also prepared. Color measurements of simple specimens were taken against a gray background using a spectrophotometer. For dual specimens, the color of the inner composite was measured against a gray or chromatic (the same shade as the outer composite) background. Color differences (ΔE00) between the single-shade composites and the A1/A3 composite were calculated. CAP was determined by comparing data from simple and dual specimens. Four experienced dentists scored the color match (perfect to unacceptable) for each specimen using a viewing booth illuminated by an illuminant D65. Data were analyzed with repeated-measures ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis test. The results showed that both single-shade composites showed the lowest color discrepancies when they were compared to A1 and A3. Using a chromatic background only significantly affected the CAP when the outer composite was A3. The visual analysis showed poor color matches between the single-shade and control chromatic composites, except for Charisma Diamond One surrounded by A1. In conclusion, the CAP values of the evaluated single-shade composites were impacted by both surrounding shade and background color, and the color match of these materials tended to be poor.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou os efeitos da cor do entorno e do fundo no potencial de ajuste de cor (PAC) e na correspondência visual de cor de dois compósitos monocromáticos, Vittra APS Unique e Charisma Diamond One. Amostras em formato cilíndrico foram criadas utilizando os compósitos monocromáticos e de cor A1/A3. Algumas amostras dos compósitos monocromáticos foram circundadas pelos compósitos A1 ou A3, formando amostras duplas. Medidas de cor das amostras simples foram obtidas em um fundo cinza utilizando um espectrofotômetro. Para as amostras duplas, a cor do compósito interno foi medida em um fundo cinza ou cromático (com a mesma cor do compósito externo). As diferenças de cor (ΔE00) entre os compósitos de monocromáticos e os compósitos A1/A3 foram calculadas. O PAC foi determinado comparando os dados das amostras simples e duplas. Quatro dentistas experientes avaliaram a correspondência de cor (de perfeita a inaceitável) para cada espécime utilizando uma cabine de visualização iluminada por uma iluminante D65. Dados foram analisados por ANOVA de medidas repetidas e teste de Kruskal-Wallis test. Os resultados mostraram que ambos os compósitos monocromáticos apresentaram as menores discrepâncias de cor quando comparados a A1 que em relação a A3. O uso de um fundo cromático afetou significativamente o PAC apenas quando o compósito externo era A3. A análise visual mostrou correspondência de cor fraca entre os compósitos monocromáticos e os compósitos cromáticos de controle, com exceção do Charisma Diamond One circundado por A1. Em conclusão, os valores de PAC dos compósitos monocromáticos avaliados foram impactados tanto pela cor do entorno quanto pela cor de fundo, e a correspondência visual de cor desses materiais tendeu a ser ruim.

The role of interface distance and underlying substrate on the color adjustment potential of single-shade composites.

OBJECTIVE: This study assessed how the distance from the composite interface and the underlying chromatic substrate affect the color adjustment potential (CAP) of two single-shade composites. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cylinder-shaped specimens were created using Vittra APS Unique (VU), Charisma Diamond One (DO), and a shaded (A3) composite. Some single-shade specimens were surrounded by the A3 composite, forming dual specimens. Color measurements of simple specimens were taken against a gray background using a spectrophotometer. All specimens were positioned at a 45° angle in a viewing booth under illuminant D65, and images were captured with a DSLR camera against gray or A3 backgrounds. Image colors were measured using image processing software and converted to CIELAB coordinates. Color differences (ΔE00 ) between the single-shade composites and the A3 composite were calculated. CAP was determined by comparing data from simple and dual specimens. RESULTS: No clinically significant differences were observed between color measurements obtained from images and the spectrophotometer. CAP was higher for DO compared to VU and increased as the distance from the composite interface decreased and when specimens were positioned against an A3 background. CONCLUSION: The color adjustment potential increased with decreased distance from the composite interface and against a chromatic background. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Achieving satisfactory color match in restorations using single-shade composites is crucial, and selecting an appropriate underlying substrate is essential. The color adjustment gradually decreases from the restoration margins towards its center.

Green composites based on thermoplastic starch reinforced with micro- and nano-cellulose by melt blending - A review.

Starch is a biodegradable biopolymer, a sustainable material that can replace conventional petrochemical-based plastics. However, starch has some limitations, as it must be processed by heating and treated mechanically with a plasticizer to become thermoplastic starch (TPS). Different variables such as mixing speeds, amount, and kind of plasticizers play a vital role in preparing TPS by melting. Despite this, the properties of the TPS are not comparable with those of traditional plastics. To overcome this limitation, microcellulose or nanocellulose is added to TPS by melt mixing, including the extrusion and internal mixing process, which enables large-scale production. This review aims to compile several studies that evaluate the effect of plasticizers, as well as the relevance of incorporating different cellulosic fillers of different dimensions on the properties of TPS obtained by melt mixing. Potential applications of these materials in food packaging, biomedical applications, and other opportunities are also described.

Imidazolium Salts for Candida spp. Antibiofilm High-Density Polyethylene-Based Biomaterials.

The species of Candida present good capability to form fungal biofilms on polymeric surfaces and are related to several human diseases since many of the employed medical devices are designed using polymers, especially high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Herein, HDPE films containing 0; 0.125; 0.250 or 0.500 wt% of 1-hexadecyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (C16MImCl) or its analog 1-hexadecyl-3-methylimidazolium methanesulfonate (C16MImMeS) were obtained by melt blending and posteriorly mechanically pressurized into films. This approach resulted in more flexible and less brittle films, which impeded the Candida albicans, C. parapsilosis, and C. tropicalis biofilm formation on their surfaces. The employed imidazolium salt (IS) concentrations did not present any significant cytotoxic effect, and the good cell adhesion/proliferation of human mesenchymal stem cells on the HDPE-IS films indicated good biocompatibility. These outcomes combined with the absence of microscopic lesions in pig skin after contact with HDPE-IS films demonstrated their potential as biomaterials for the development of effective medical device tools that reduce the risk of fungal infections.

Effect of surrounded shade and specimen`s thickness on color adjustment potential of a single-shade composite

Abstract This study evaluated the effect of surrounded shade and specimens` thickness on the color adjustment potential (CAP) of a single-shade composite. The composite Vittra APS Unique was surrounded (dual specimens) or not (simple specimens) by a control composite (shade A1, A2, or A3). Simple specimens of the control composite were also confectioned. Opacity and whiteness index for dentistry (WID) were calculated for simple specimens. Color differences between the simple (ΔE*SIMPLE)/ dual specimens (ΔE*DUAL) and the controls were calculated. CAP was calculated based on the ratio between ΔE* SIMPLE and ΔE* DUAL. The tested composite presented lower opacity (53 to 62% vs. 80 to 93%) and higher WID (≈ 42 vs. 18 to 32) than controls. Irrespective of the specimens' thickness (1.0/ 1.5 mm), the lowest values of ΔE* SIMPLE (11.1/ 10.8) and ΔE*DUAL (7.2/ 6.1) were observed using the surrounding shade A1. The shade A3 yielded higher ΔE*SIMPLE (16.4/ 17.1) and ΔE* DUAL (11.3/ 12.3) than the A2 (ΔE*SIMPLE = 13.4/ 14.6; and ΔE* DUAL = 9.7/ 10.3). The specimen`s thickness significantly affected the CAP (0.35 and 0.44 for 1.0 and 1.5 mm, respectively) only for shade A1, which had the highest CAP values. The shade A3 resulted in higher CAP values (0.31) than A2 (0.27) when 1.0-mm thick specimens were used, but similar values were observed for 1.5 thick specimens (≈ 0.29). In conclusion, both surrounding shade and specimen thickness can affect the CAP of a single-shade resin composite.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou o efeito da cor circundante e da espessura da amostra no potencial de ajuste de cor (PAC) de uma resina monocromática. O compósito Vittra APS Unique foi circundado (amostras duplas) ou não (amostras simples) com um compósito controle (cor A1, A2 ou A3). Amostras simples do compósito controle também foram confeccionadas. A opacidade e o índice de brancura para odontologia (IBO) foram calculados para as amostras simples. As diferenças de cor entre amostras simples (ΔE*SIMPLE) / duplas (ΔE*DUAL) e os controles foram calculados. PAC foi calculado baseado na razão entre ΔE* SIMPLE e ΔE* DUAL. O compósito testado apresentou menor opacidade (53 a 62% vs. 80 a 93%) e maior IBO (≈ 42 vs. 18 a 32) que os controles. Independente da espessura da amostra (1,0/ 1,5 mm), os valores mais baixos de ΔE* SIMPLE (11,1/ 10,8) e ΔE*DUAL (7,2/ 6,1) foram observadas quando a resina circundante era A1. A cor A3 resultou em maior ΔE*SIMPLE (16,4/ 17,1) e ΔE* DUAL (11,3/ 12,3) do que A2 (ΔE*SIMPLE = 13,4/ 14,6; e ΔE* DUAL = 9,7/ 10,3). A espessura das amostras afetou significativamente o PAC (0,35 e 0,44 para 1,0 e 1,5 mm, respectivamente) apenas para a cor A1, que teve os maiores valores de PAC. A cor A3 resultou nos maiores valores de PAC (0,31) que A2 (0,27) quando amostras de 1,0 mm de espessura foram usadas, mas valores similares foram observados para amostras de 1,5 mm (≈ 0,29). Como conclusão, tanto a cor circundante como a espessura das amostras podem afetar o PAC de um compósito resinoso monocromático.

Rheological Evaluation of Softened Binders Blended with Aged Asphalt Selected with a High-Temperature Mixing Chart.

Reclaimed asphalt pavements (RAP) provide economic and environmental benefits. In recent decades, their use has increased, but rheological properties are affected by RAP aging, increasing stiffness, cracking, and susceptibility to water. To counteract these effects, rejuvenating agents are used, but they must be properly dosed to design quality mixtures. Therefore, different binders were analyzed, including virgin binder (VBB), binder modified by SBS polymer (MB), AC-RAP, binder softened using a rejuvenating agent, and binders softened with doses (15%, 30%, and 45%) of AC-RAP. The rheological properties were evaluated by dynamic shear rheometry (DSR) and beam-bending rheometry (BBR) tests, while the linear amplitude sweep (LAS) test was used to measure fatigue cracking and the multiple stress creep recovery (MSCR) test was used to measure rutting. A mixing chart was constructed based on a high temperature AC-RAP to satisfy the performance grade (PG 76-22). The results showed that softened binders become flexible, but when AC-RAP is added, they turn stiff and behave better than MB. Moreover, combining a rejuvenating agent and AC-RAP reduces the aging stiffness of RAP, improving its rheological properties without compromising the rutting or cracking resistance.

Analysis of the color matching of universal resin composites in anterior restorations.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate color matching of universal composite restorations performed in anterior teeth using two evaluation methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty class III preparations were made on denture central incisors with different shades (A1-A3) and restored with multishade (Tetric Evoceram, Filtek Universal, and TPH Spectra Universal) and single-shade (Omnichroma) universal composites (n = 5). For photographic analysis, a digital photograph of each specimen was taken under standardized set-up. Color measurements were taken in the center of the restoration, and in the tooth surface 1.0 mm adjacent from the tooth/restoration margin. CIELab coordinates were recorded and color difference analysis (ΔE) was made using the CIEDE-2000 formula. For visual analysis, calibrated observers performed visual scoring of color matching and differences were graded as 0:excellent match; 1:very good match; 2:not so good match; 3:obvious mismatch; 4:huge mismatch. All data were statistically analyzed using a linear mixed model analysis with a confidence interval of 95%. RESULTS: For photographic analysis, Omnichroma showed the highest ΔE compared to the other composites for all shades (P < .05), without difference among experimental groups regarding tooth shade. For visual analysis, Omnichroma showed the highest scores (P < .05) for all teeth shades, without differences between the other groups. Furthermore, there were no differences between visual scores for different shades of a same resin composite group. CONCLUSIONS: Multishade universal composites presented higher color matching than the single shade universal composite. There were no differences of color matching for different tooth shades for all composites. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Universal composites with increased color matching may be helpful to simplify anterior restorations, minimizing clinical errors.

Color, lightness, chroma, hue, and translucency adjustment potential of resin composites using CIEDE2000 color difference formula.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate color, lightness, chroma, hue, and translucency adjustment potential of resin composites using CIEDE2000 color difference formula. METHODS: Three resin composites (Filtek Universal, Harmonize, and Omnichroma) were tested. Two types of specimens were prepared: an outer base shade with an inner hole filled with test shades and single-composite specimens of all shades. Spectrorradiometric reflectances measurements and subsequent CIELAB color coordinates and translucency parameter (TP) were performed. Color (CAP00 ), lightness, chroma, hue, and translucency (TAP00 ) adjustment potential using CIEDE2000 color difference were computed. Color and transparency differences among composite materials and shades were statistically tested (P < 0.05). RESULTS: Positive CAP00 and TAP00 values were found for majority of tested materials. CAP00 values ranged from -0.14 to 0.89, with the highest values found for Omnichroma (>0.75 in all cases). TAP00 values ranged from -0.06 to 0.86 with significant translucency differences among dual and single specimens. Omnichroma exhibited the highest adjustment potential for all color dimensions studied. CONCLUSIONS: Lightness, hue, chroma, and translucency adjustment potential have been introduced using CIEDE2000 color difference formula, and have shown their usefulness to evaluate blending effect in dentistry. Color coordinates and translucency adjustment potential were dependent on dental material. Omnichroma exhibited the most pronounced blending effect. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Resin composites with increased color and translucency adjustment may simplify shade selection, making this process easier and less time consuming. Furthermore, these materials might facilitate challenging and complex color matching situations.

Second-Generation Lignocellulosic Supportive Material Improves Atomic Ratios of C:O and H:O and Thermomechanical Behavior of Hybrid Non-Woody Pellets.

Pellets refer to solid biofuels for heating and power. The pellet's integrity is of great relevant to ensure safe and effective transportation and storage, and comfort to stakeholders. Several materials that are supportive, whether organic and inorganic, to pellets exist. However, no work in the literature is linking making hybrid non-wood pellets with addition of residual biomass from distillation of cellulosic bioethanol, and this requires further investigations. Figuring out how effective this challenging agro-industrial residue could be for reinforcing non-wood pellets is accordingly the scientific point of this study focusing on management of waste and valorization of biomass. The pilot-scale manufacturing of hybrid pellets consisted of systematically pressing sugarcane bagasse with the lignocellulosic reinforcement at the mass ratios of 3:1, 1:1, and 1:3 on an automatic pelletizer machine at 200 MPa and 125 °C. Elemental contents of C and H, durability, and energy density all increased significantly from 50.05 to 53.50%, 5.95 to 7.80%, 95.90 to 99.55%, and 28.20 to 31.20 MJ kg-1, respectively, with blending the starting material with the reinforcement at 1:3. Preliminary evidence of residual biomass from distillation of second-generation bioethanol capable of highly improving molecular flammable/combustible properties, mechanical stability, and fuel power of composite non-wood pellets exist.

Por uma visão cognitivista do processo de inferenciação em leitura

Levando em consideração o fato de que o processo de inferenciação em leitura é definido de diversas maneiras diferentes, dependendo da abordagem teórica com que se trabalha ou mesmo dentro de abordagens semelhantes, este trabalho visa a construir uma definição para o processo com base exclusivamente nas ciências da cognição, especificamente da Psicolinguística e da Linguística Cognitiva. Parte-se da concepção dos estudos psicolinguísticos sobre o processamento da leitura para, então, aprimorá-la por meio da Teoria da Integração Conceptual, derivada dos estudos em Linguística Cognitiva. Assim, a inferenciação é entendida, neste trabalho, como processo básico de significação, que ocorre obrigatoriamente em uma leitura interativa, por meio da qual o leitor, como agente de seu processo, mescla seu conhecimento prévio às informações novas trazidas pelo texto para a geração de novos significados. As inferências são sempre únicas, mas partem dos mesmos frames e esquemas cognitivos ativados pela informação visual recebida. Como exemplos, apresentamos algumas respostas de alunos do nono ano do ensino fundamental para uma questão de leitura apresentada em um livro didático de língua portuguesa (AU)

The cognitive process of inferentiation in reading has received many different definitions in different theoretial approaches and also in similar approaches as well. This paper aims to construct adefinition for this process based only on Cognitive Sciences, specifically on Psycholinguistics and Cognitive Linguistics. Our proposal is motivated by the concepts derived from the psycholinguistic studies about the process of reading, but we intend to improve it with the support of the theory of conceptual blending (or conceptual integration),based on studies in Cognitive Linguistics. Thus, in this paper, inference in reading can be understood as a basic process of meaning construction: it necessarily occurs in an interactive reading, in which the reader blends his/her prior knowledge to the new information brought by the text, in order to construct new meanings. The inferencesare always unique, but they derive from the same frames and cognitive schemes activated by the visual information received. To exemplify our proposal, we present some answers of students in the 9th grade for a reading questi on presented ina Portuguese textbook (AU)

Por uma visão cognitivista do processo de inferenciação em leitura / For a cognitivist overview of the inferentiation process in the reading

Levando em consideração o fato de que o processo de inferenciação em leitura é definido de diversas maneiras diferentes, dependendo da abordagem teórica com que se trabalha ou mesmo dentro de abordagens semelhantes, este trabalho visa a construir uma definição para o processo com base exclusivamente nas ciências da cognição, especificamente da Psicolinguística e da Linguística Cognitiva. Parte-se da concepção dos estudos psicolinguísticos sobre o processamento da leitura para, então, aprimorá-la por meio da Teoria da Integração Conceptual, derivada dos estudos em Linguística Cognitiva. Assim, a inferenciação é entendida, neste trabalho, como processo básico de significação, que ocorre obrigatoriamente em uma leitura interativa, por meio da qual o leitor, como agente de seu processo, mescla seu conhecimento prévio às informações novas trazidas pelo texto para a geração de novos significados. As inferências são sempre únicas, mas partem dos mesmos frames e esquemas cognitivos ativados pela informação visual recebida. Como exemplos, apresentamos algumas respostas de alunos do nono ano do ensino fundamental para uma questão de leitura apresentada em um livro didático de língua portuguesa

The cognitive process of inferentiation in reading has received many different definitions in different theoretial approaches and also in similar approaches as well. This paper aims to construct adefinition for this process based only on Cognitive Sciences, specifically on Psycholinguistics and Cognitive Linguistics. Our proposal is motivated by the concepts derived from the psycholinguistic studies about the process of reading, but we intend to improve it with the support of the theory of conceptual blending (or conceptual integration),based on studies in Cognitive Linguistics. Thus, in this paper, inference in reading can be understood as a basic process of meaning construction: it necessarily occurs in an interactive reading, in which the reader blends his/her prior knowledge to the new information brought by the text, in order to construct new meanings. The inferencesare always unique, but they derive from the same frames and cognitive schemes activated by the visual information received. To exemplify our proposal, we present some answers of students in the 9th grade for a reading questi on presented ina Portuguese textbook

Novel Pullulan-Eudragit® S100 blend microparticles for oral delivery of risedronate: formulation, in vitro evaluation and tableting of blend microparticles.

Polymer blends have been considered a promising strategy to tailor drug release. In order to achieve gastroresistance and controlled release, Pullulan, a polysaccharide, and Eudragit® S100, an enteric polymer were selected to prepare microparticles for oral delivery of risedronate, an antiresorptive drug associated with GI tract injuries. Blend microparticles were prepared by spray-drying technique at 3 Pullulan and Eudragit® S100 ratios (MP2:1, MP1:1 and MP1:2) and were characterized in terms of yield, particle size, encapsulation efficiency, morphology, moisture content, flowability and in vitro drug release profiles. Microparticles presented yields between 31 and 42%, encapsulation efficiencies close to 100%, moisture contents lower than 11%, particle size ranging from 2.9 to 4.8 µm and narrow distribution. In the gastric medium, MP1:2 showed the best gastroresistance profile. In the intestinal fluid, all samples were able to prolong drug release. MP1:2 was compressed into tablets with or without polyvinylpyrrolidone. Both tableted microparticles could be obtained with acceptable average weights, drug content close to 100%, sufficient hardness and low friability. In vitro studies showed that tablets maintained the gastroresistance observed for microparticles and were also able to prolong risedronate release. In conclusion, Pullulan/Eudragit® S100 microparticles are promising alternatives for the oral delivery of risedronate in the future.

Phenolic composition and mouthfeel characteristics resulting from blending Chilean red wines.

BACKGROUND: The blending of wine is a common practice in winemaking to improve certain characteristics that are appreciated by consumers. The use of some cultivars may contribute phenolic compounds that modify certain characteristics in blended wines, particularly those related to mouthfeel. The aim of this work was to study the effect of Carménère, Merlot and Cabernet Franc on the phenolic composition, proanthocyanidin profile and mouthfeel characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon blends. RESULTS: Significant differences in chemical composition were observed among the monovarietal wines. Separation using Sep-Pak C18 cartridges revealed differences in the concentration but not in the proportion of various proanthocyanidins. Blending reduced polyphenol concentration differences among the various monovarietal wines. Although no major overall differences were observed after blending the monovarietal wines, this oenological practice produced clear differences in mouthfeel characteristics in such a way that the quality of the perceived astringency was different. CONCLUSION: This study showed that the use of a particular wine variety (Cabernet Sauvignon) in a higher proportion in wine blending produced blends that were less differentiable from the monovarietal wine, owing to a suppression effect, producing an apparent standardization of the wines regarding chemical composition.

Property Relationship in Organosilanes and Nanotubes Filled Polypropylene Hybrid Composites.

Polypropylene composites with different filler contents were prepared by creating a masterbatch containing 3 wt%. filler. A variety of silanol groups were used to synthetized three compounds in different media trough a sol-gel process with acetic acid, formic acid and ammonium hydroxide as catalysts. Besides, four different nanotubular fillers were also used to analyze their behavior and compare it with the effect caused by the silanol groups. These tubular structures comprise: unmodified halloysite, carbon nanotubes and functionalized halloysite and carbon nanotubes. Morphological characterization in SEM and STEM/TEM showed dispersion in the polypropylene matrix. According to TGA and DSC measurements thermal behavior remain similar for all the composites. Mechanical test in tension demonstrate that modulus of the composites increases for all samples with a major impact for materials containing silanol groups synthetized in formic acid. Rheological measurements show a significantly increment in viscosity for samples containing unmodified and modified carbon nanotubes. No difference was found for samples containing silanol groups and halloysite when compared to neat polypropylene. Finally, the oxygen transmission rate increased for all samples showing high barrier properties only for samples containing natural and functionalized halloysite nanotubes.

A one-pot glycerol-based additive-blended ethyl biodiesel production: a green process.

N-methyl-2-pyrrolidonium methyl sulfonate, a Brønsted acid ionic liquid, promoted the transesterification of soybean oil with ethanol giving a high quality fatty acid ethyl ester. At the end of the reaction, after distillation of excess of ethanol, spontaneous phase separation took place. While the clear upper phase corresponded to the ethyl ester, the lower phase was composed of a mixture of glycerol byproduct and the catalyst. By addition of a stoichiometric amount of appropriated reagents to the resulting mixture, a new ionic liquid-catalyzed process allows the conversion of the glycerol into less polar derivatives, and consequent migration to the ethyl esters phase. This work demonstrated that emulsion, phase separation and contamination problems were completely avoided and the glycerol could be incorporated into the biodiesel as additives in a single step. The whole process involves two renewable starting materials, ethanol and vegetable oil, allowing a total green additive-blended biodiesel production process.