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High internal phase emulsions (HIPEs) have been of great interest for fabricating fluorinated porous polymers having controlled pore structures and excellent physicochemical properties. However, it remains a challenge to prepare stable fluorocarbon HIPEs, due to the lack of suitable surfactants. By randomly grating hydrophilic and fluorophilic side chains to polyphosphazene (PPZ), a comb-like amphiphilic PPZ surfactant with biodegradability is designed and synthesized for stabilizing water/fluorocarbon oil-based emulsions. The hydrophilic-lipophilic balance of PPZs can be controlled by tuning the grating ratio of the two side chains, leading to the preparation of stable water-in-oil HIPEs and oil-in-water emulsions, and the production of fluorinated porous polymers and particles by polymerizing the oil phase. These fluorinated porous polymers show excellent thermal stability and, due to the hydrophobicity and porous structure, applications in the field of oil/water separation can be achieved.

The prevalence of "long COVID" is just one of the conundrums highlighting how little we know about the lung's response to viral infection, particularly to syndromecoronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), for which the lung is the point of entry. We used an in vitro human lung system to enable a prospective, unbiased, sequential single-cell level analysis of pulmonary cell responses to infection by multiple SARS-CoV-2 strains. Starting with human induced pluripotent stem cells and emulating lung organogenesis, we generated and infected three-dimensional, multi-cell-type-containing lung organoids (LOs) and gained several unexpected insights. First, SARS-CoV-2 tropism is much broader than previously believed: Many lung cell types are infectable, if not through a canonical receptor-mediated route (e.g., via Angiotensin-converting encyme 2(ACE2)) then via a noncanonical "backdoor" route (via macropinocytosis, a form of endocytosis). Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved endocytosis blockers can abrogate such entry, suggesting adjunctive therapies. Regardless of the route of entry, the virus triggers a lung-autonomous, pulmonary epithelial cell-intrinsic, innate immune response involving interferons and cytokine/chemokine production in the absence of hematopoietic derivatives. The virus can spread rapidly throughout human LOs resulting in mitochondrial apoptosis mediated by the prosurvival protein Bcl-xL. This host cytopathic response to the virus may help explain persistent inflammatory signatures in a dysfunctional pulmonary environment of long COVID. The host response to the virus is, in significant part, dependent on pulmonary Surfactant Protein-B, which plays an unanticipated role in signal transduction, viral resistance, dampening of systemic inflammatory cytokine production, and minimizing apoptosis. Exogenous surfactant, in fact, can be broadly therapeutic.

Severe cases of hydrocarbon aspiration requiring Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) are rarely reported in pediatrics, and 90% of hospitalized patients have a relatively benign clinical course. We describe a 14 month-old female with accidental hydrocarbon ingestion and aspiration due to organic makeup brush cleaner that suffered severe ARDS and multiorgan failure, successfully managed with ECMO and surfactant. She was decannulated after a total of 72 hours on ECMO, extubated on hospital day 15 (HD 15), and discharged home in her normal state of health after one month in the hospital. ECMO and adjunctive therapies such as surfactant may be helpful in the management of severe hydrocarbon pneumonitis and there are limited reports of ECMO as a supportive method for these pediatric patients.

Innovative applications of foam are the need of time which fundamentally depends on the stability of the foam. In the present research work, the static foam behavior of the nonionic surfactant Tween-20 in the presence and absence of Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) was investigated. The role of TiO2-NPs on foaming power based on foam height and foamability was studied at different temperatures. At 29 ± 1 0C, maximum foam height for Tween 20 (5% surfactant solution in distilled water) without and with TiO2-NPs was increased from 45.60 to 60.30 cm exhibiting 32.25% increase. In view of studying foam stability, axial dye displacement rate (ADDR) test was performed without and with nanoparticles where TiO2-NPs resist liquid drainage. TiO2 -NPs and Tween-20 form intermolecular hydrogen bonding which helps to enhance the foam stability as revealed by the density functional theory (DFT) studies. However, TiO2 -NPs have tendency to agglomerate if zeta potential value is low that severely affect the foaming power and foamability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, surfactants such as cetyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (CTAC) and coconut oil amide propyl betaine (CAB) were compounded (TCJ) and used as a double function with foam drainage and hydrate anti‐polymerization. According to the result it was found that 0.05% of CTAC and 0.7% of CAB exhibited both excellent foam property and hydrate anti‐polymerization property. For further clarifying the stability characteristic of foam, the foam half‐life, drainage process, microcosmic liquid film structure, and stability mechanism were investigated in this article. The high initial foam volume of 415 mL with relatively long half‐life time of 5.5 min under high‐speed agitation at 50°C after 25 min indicated a good temperature resistance. The excellent foam properties still remained even amount of methanol and NaCl was added, which indicated its well stability and salt resistance. Furthermore, it was found that TCJ exhibited high liquid carrying rate of 62.5% at 65°C and good compatibility with poly vinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), which played great potential to the application in oil field. By the results of DSC curves, it can be found that the phase transformation point of hydrate decreases after addition of TCJ, which indicates the inhibition to the formation of hydrate as thermodynamic inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoemulsions are kinetically stable emulsions with droplet size distribution in the range of 10–500 nm. Low interfacial tension (IFT), small droplet size, and wettability alteration properties of nanoemulsions have led to their application for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) EOR. The current study deals with the formulation and characterization of Tergitol 15-S-9 surfactant stabilized oil/water nanoemulsion (NE). Optimal surfactant concentration accompanied by optimal salinity determination was done by observing long-term stability. The stability of the nanoemulsions was analyzed by Turbiscan and Zeta potential analysis. The optimal nanoemulsion was characterized in terms of droplet size, rheology, wettability, miscibility, and IFT. All the prepared nanoemulsion showed particle size < 300 nm. optimized nano emulsion, that is, 0.5 wt.% surfactant +0.5 wt.% salinity showed good IFT reduction and wettability alteration capability. Nanoemulsion also showed good miscibility behavior with actual crude oil at 60 °C. Rheology of the formed emulsion shows a mixed nature that is shear thinning as well as shear thickening nature which is favorable for heterogeneous reservoirs. Core-flooding experiments were conducted at optimized nanoemulsion formulation, and additional oil recovery of 13.93% of the original oil in place was obtained after the conventional water flooding. Highlights: Experimental and mechanistic investigation of nanoemulsions for oil recovery. Enhanced miscibility of Tergitol 15-S-9 stabilized nanoemulsion with crude oil. Viscosity enhancement by macromolecular and supramolecular network structures. Low IFT achieved for the nanoemulsion resulting enhanced oil displacement. Encouraging oil displacement by injection of formulated nanoemulsion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA) is a naturally occurring compound that is both water and fat soluble, functioning as a powerful antioxidant in the body. In this study, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with SDS were electrodeposited onto a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) electrochemically. This modified electrode was characterized by electrochemical techniques (EIS, CV). The MWCNT/SDS-modified GCE was utilized for the analysis of α-LA. An electrochemical oxidation mechanism for α-LA was proposed using the developed electrochemical sensor. After optimizing the conditions, the MWCNT/SDS-GCE sensor exhibited a linear response in the concentration range of 0.6–9.0 µM, with a detection limit of 0.15 µM. Additionally, this chemical sensor was effectively utilized for the electrochemical analysis of α-LA in the food additive sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrafine particulate matter and airborne microorganisms present in the atmosphere significantly affect human health, leading to serious respiratory diseases. Among these particulates are bioaerosols, which include viruses, bacteria, and fungi. When inhaled, these microorganisms can cause diseases, such as influenza, tuberculosis, and COVID-19. Therefore, the development of bifunctional membranes that can simultaneously filter particulate matter (PM) and inhibit microorganism growth is essential. Electrospun filters, known for their high surface area, are effective in capturing these airborne particles. This study presents a novel approach by incorporating various surfactants into electrospun filters made from 8% polyacrylonitrile (PAN). The surfactants used include cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), widely cited in the literature for bactericidal filtering applications, as well as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), which are rarely used in electrospun filters for this purpose. The addition of surfactants enhanced the filter performance, capturing particles smaller than 250 nm with over 99% efficiency for particles between 6.38 and 242 nm. The pressure drop across the filters ranged from 111.4 ± 1.2 to 204.4 ± 1.1 Pa. Moreover, the incorporation of surfactants not only improved hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties—where hydrophobic nanofibers performed better for filtration—but also significantly increased antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (97.25 ± 0.95%) and Escherichia coli (94.52 ± 2.37%). These filters not only capture particles but also inactivate pathogens, contributing to a healthier environment. Filters with biocidal properties are particularly useful in hospitals, laboratories, and other settings where air sterility is critical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Surfactants, particularly non‐ionic ones, are widely used as adjuvants in pesticide formulations due to their ability to maintain pesticide effectiveness without changing solution properties, such as pH. While non‐ionic surfactants are generally low‐toxic, stable, and excellent dispersants with high solubilization capabilities, they may be less effective than cationic surfactants, which offer superior surface activity, transport properties, and antimicrobial action. This study investigates the efficacy of new piperidinium surfactants with carbamate fragments as adjuvants in insecticide formulations containing imidacloprid. The efficacy of these formulations is being assessed against greenhouse whitefly, a pest known to harm cultivated and ornamental flowering plants. RESULTS: The aggregation behavior of piperidinium surfactants containing carbamate fragments was investigated, and their wetting effect was evaluated. Synthesized surfactants have lower CMC values compared to their methylpiperidinium analogue. The effect of piperidinium surfactants on the insecticide concentration on the surface and inside tomato leaves was assessed using spectrophotometric methods. It was found that the introduction of piperidinium surfactants with carbamate fragment at a concentration of 0.1% wt. allows for decrease in lethal concentration of imidacloprid up to 10 times, thereby testifying the marked increase in the effectiveness of imidacloprid against the greenhouse whitefly insect pest (Trialeurodes vaporariorum). It was shown that the main factors responsible for the enhanced efficacy of the insecticide were the ability of the surfactant to increase the concentration of imidacloprid on the leaf surfaces and improve their penetration into the plant. CONCLUSION: The presented work employed a comprehensive approach, which significantly increases the generalizability of the results obtained and provides the ability to predict the effect and target selection of adjuvants. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective was to evaluate refractory respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) risk factors among very-low-birth-weight infants (VLBWIs). Method: The data of VLBWIs born between January 2013 and December 2020 registered in the Korean Neonatal Network (KNN) were analyzed. Infants who died within 5 postnatal days or who were not given surfactant were excluded. Infants were divided into a well-responding RDS group, which received surfactant replacement therapy (SRT) only once, and a refractory RDS group, which received SRT twice or more. The associations between perinatal characteristics and refractory RDS were investigated via multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that low gestational age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.23, 1.26], male sex (aOR = 1.17, 95% CI [1.06, 1.29]), cesarean section (aOR = 1.59, 95% CI [1.38, 1.80]), maternal hypertensive disorder (aOR = 1.54, 95% CI[1.35, 1.75]), and low 5-minute Apgar scores (aOR = 1.24, 95% CI [1.12, 1.37]) were significantly associated with refractory RDS. Antenatal corticosteroid use (aOR = 0.81, 95% CI [0.73, 0.89]) and maternal chorioamnionitis (aOR = 0.79, 95% CI [0.71, 0.88]) were significantly inversely associated with refractory RDS. Compared with well-responding RDS, refractory RDS was significantly associated with increased major neonatal morbidity and mortality risk at 5 postnatal days. Conclusion: Maternal hypertensive disorder is a significant risk factor for refractory RDS. Refractory RDS was associated with unfavorable neonatal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and transient tachypnoea (TTN) are the two commonest neonatal respiratory disorders. The optimal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to treat them is unknown. We aim to clarify the effect of different CPAP levels on lung aeration and gas exchange in patients with RDS and TTN. Methods: Prospective, observational, pragmatic, physiological cohort study. CPAP was sequentially increased from 4 to 6 and 8 cmH2O and backwards, with interposed wash-out periods. Lung aeration was assessed with a validated neonatal lung ultrasound score. Gas exchange was non-invasively evaluated with transcutaneous monitoring. Ultrasound score and PtcO2/FiO2 ratio were the co-primary outcomes. PtcCO2 and other oxygenation metrics were the secondary outcomes. Results: 30 neonates with RDS and 30 with TTN were studied. Each CPAP increment significantly (overall always p < 0.001) improved both lung aeration and oxygenation, but the increase from 6 to 8 cmH2O achieved a small absolute benefit. In RDS patients, the absolute improvements were small and the diagnosis of TTN was significantly associated with greater improvement of lung aeration (β= -1.4 (95%CI: -2.4; -0.3), p = 0.01) and oxygenation (β = 39.6 (95%CI: 4.1; 75.1), p = 0.029). Aeration improved in 16 (53.3%) and 27 (90%) patients in the RDS and TTN groups, respectively (p = 0.034). Lung aeration showed significant hysteresis in TTN patients. Secondary outcomes gave similar results. Conclusions: Increasing CPAP from 4 to 8 cmH2O improves ultrasound-assessed lung aeration and oxygenation in RDS and TTN. The absolute improvements are small when CPAP is beyond 6 cmH2O or for RDS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic-rich hot Qusaiba shale is the primary source rock of most of the Paleozoic hydrocarbon reservoirs of eastern and central Arabia. Representative near-surface Qusaiba shale samples were collected and characterized from one of its outcrop sections at the Tayma quadrangle in northwest Saudi Arabia. The petrophysical and geochemical characterization indicated porosity and permeability of 8.2% and 2.05 nD, respectively, with good total organic carbon (TOC) of 2.2 mg/g and mature kerogen of gas-prone type III. The tight characteristics of the formation can lead to high capillary pressure and extensive post-fracking water retention, leading to flow blockage and a reduction in gas productivity. Three different surfactants and one ionic liquid, namely, Triton X-100, Triton X-405 and Zonyle FSO surfactants and Ammoeng 102 ionic liquid, were tested as additives to fracking fluid to investigate their effectiveness in optimizing its performance. The chemical solutions exhibited no sign of instability when exposed to solution salinity and temperatures up to 70 °C. The investigated chemicals' performance was examined by measuring methane/chemical solutions' surface tension and their ability to alter shale's wettability. The results indicate that Zonyl FSO is the most effective chemical, as it is able to significantly reduce surface tension and, hence, capillary pressure by 66% when added at critical micelle concentration (CMC). Using Zonyl FSO surfactant at a maximum tested concentration of 0.2% induced a relatively smaller capillary pressure drop (54%) due to the drastic drop in the contact angle rendering shale very strongly water-wet. Such a drop in capillary pressure can lower the fracking fluid invasion depth and therefore ease the liquid blockage removal during the flowback stage, enhancing gas recovery during the extended production stage. Triton X-100 at CMC was the second most effective surfactant and was able to induce a quite significant 47% drop in capillary pressure when added at the maximum tested concentration of 0.05%. This was sufficient to remove any liquid blockage but was less likely to alter the wettability of the shale. Based on the findings obtained, it is suggested to reduce the blockage tendency during the fracking process and elevate any existing blockage during the flowback stage by using Zonyl FSO at CMC where IFT is at its minimum with a higher contact angle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of lignocellulytic enzymes by microwave-radiated Pleurotus sajor-caju was assayed. Wheat straw was employed as substrate to P. sajor-caju for production of laccase, manganese peroxidase (MnPase), filter-paperase (FPase), carboxmethyl cellulase (CMCase), and cellulase (as evaluated using microcrystalline cellulose). P. sajor-caju exposed to 10 s of microwave radiation (MR) showed maximum growth with colony radius of 7.17 ± 0.45 cm, while with increasing the exposure time up to 50 s the growth decreased up to 2.67 ± 0.22 cm. Moreover, it failed to grow at 80 s of exposure time. Cellulase, MnPase, FPase, CMCase, and laccase activities were induced to 37 ± .0.54, 49 ± 2.36, 189 ± 2.12, 0.37 ± 0.06, and 1.58 ± 0.03 U/mL compared to that at control 31 ± 0.25, 46 ± 1.25, 177 ± 1.65, 0.28 ± 0.03, and 1.37 ± 0.12 U/mL, respectively as a result of P. sajor-caju exposure to 10 s of MR. As the exposure time increased, these enzymes activity decreased. Different levels of moisture with surfactant (polysorbate 80) were applied to optimize the enzymes activities at 10 s of exposure time. The optimum activities 3.15 ± 0.23, 0.62 ± 0.06, 269 ± 5.36, 65 ± 1.63, and 48 ± 0.98 U/mL were recorded for cellulase, MnPase, FPase, CMCase, and laccase, respectively at 70% of moisture and 0.15 mL/L of polysorbate 80. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, PANI/CNTs composite materials were prepared by emulsion polymerization with sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS) and Tween-80 (Tween-80) as soft templates, ammonium persulfate (APS) as oxidant, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) mixed with appropriate amount. The composite materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The results show that PANI/CNTs composites present core-shell structure with fiber shape, and PANI materials cover the surface of CNTs uniformly. The electrochemical test results show that the specific capacitance of PANI/CNTs electrode is 478.48 F/g at the current density of 1.0 A/g. After 1 000 cycles, the specific capacitance retention rate of PANI/CNTs is 70.01%, while that of PANI prepared by traditional method is only 49.10%. The specific capacitance of PANI/CNTs composites obtained by emulsion polymerization is higher than that of PANI single material obtained by traditional method, and the cycle life is significantly improved. This method provides an important strategy for the preparation of electrode materials of high-performance supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neonatal acute respiratory distress syndrome (NARDS) is an important cause of hypoxemic respiratory failure. This study aimed to investigate the short-term effects of endotracheal surfactant and budesonide combination therapy on NARDS secondary to late-onset neonatal sepsis (LONS). Methods: This was a retrospective, cross-sectional, and observational study. Newborns with NARDS due to LONS who received endotracheal surfactant and budesonide combination therapy between August 2022 and September 2023 were included in this study. Oxygenation status before endotracheal surfactant and budesonide treatment were compared with the values obtained two hours after treatment. Results: Among 20 neonates, 10 (50%) were diagnosed with severe NARDS, and 10 (50%) were diagnosed with moderate NARDS. The mean corrected gestational age was 33.3 ± 2.9 w when endotracheal surfactant and budesonide were administered to the neonates. The need for the fraction of inspired oxygen (0.75 [0.57-1.00]% vs. 0.55 [0.44-0.80]%; mean difference [MD]: 17.50%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 14.99 to 22.50) and oxygen saturation index (OSI; 8.03 [4.98-13.94] vs. 4.71 [4.11-8.93]; MD: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.22 to 3.24) decreased (P = 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively) after endotracheal surfactant and budesonide treatment. However, preductal oxygen saturation (SpO2; 93 [91-94]% vs. 95 [94-96]%; MD: -3.50%, 95% CI: -5.00 to -2.00) increased significantly after endotracheal surfactant and budesonide treatment when compared to pre-treatment values (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The reduction in oxygen demand and OSI, along with an increase in SpO2 after treatment compared to pre-treatment values, suggests that endotracheal surfactant and budesonide combination therapy could be an effective option to improve oxygenation in NARDS secondary to LONS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conditions for the smart colorimetric determination of cetylpyridinium chloride and sodium dodecyl sulfate by reaction with Coomassie brilliant blue G (CBBG) have been proposed. The nature of the absorption and fluorescence spectra of aqueous solutions of CBBG as a function of acidity has been investigated. A variety of reagent forms and associations with ionic surfactants have been demonstrated. The composition of the associates formed in the CBBG–cationic surfactant system has been established. The increase in the analytical signal of the cationic surfactant and the stabilization of the colloid-chemical state of the system during reactions in the organized medium of the nonionic surfactant Triton X-100 has been demonstrated. These effects are realized through association in premicellar solutions and as a result of the solubilization of components in Triton X-100 micellar solutions. The addition of long-chain cationic surfactants to the reagent occurs with the replacement of the heteroatom proton. The absorption of CBBG–cationic surfactant associates solutions increases with the length of the cationic surfactant hydrocarbon chain. Ethanol additives decrease the aggregation of CBBG. The technique of cationic surfactant determination has been tested in the analysis of the pharmaceutical. The results show that the simplicity of analytical signal registration with satisfactory correctness and acceptably high sensitivity of determination is an advantage of the developed technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The controllable electrical and optical properties of two-dimensional tungsten disulfide (WS2) attracted much attention in photocatalysis, but commercial development has been severely restricted by their restacking properties. Surfactant-assisted synthesis techniques can be considered as an effective option to break this bottleneck. In this work, the effect of surfactants including sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS), hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) on the microstructure of WS2/tourmaline composites prepared by coupled hydrothermal and calcination methods was explored. The WS2 nanosheets were uniformly deposited on the tourmaline surface with the assistance of 1.0 mmol/L SDBS. Meanwhile, WS2/Tour-SDBS exhibited the highest rhodamine B (RhB) degradation activity, which was 1.8 and 2.3 times higher than that of photocatalysts prepared with CTAB and PVP under the same conditions, respectively. This study provides a new tactic for the fabrication of high-performance WS2-based composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute lung Injury leads to alterations in surfactant lipid composition and metabolism. Although several mechanisms contribute to dysregulated surfactant metabolism, studies investigating in vivo surfactant metabolism are limited. The aim of this study is to characterise surfactant phospholipid composition and flux utilising a stable isotope labelling technique in mechanically ventilated paediatric patients. Paediatric patients (<16 years of age) received 3.6 mg/kg intravenous methyl-D9-choline chloride followed by the endotracheal instillation of 100 mg/kg of exogenous surfactant after 24 h. Bronchioalveolar fluid samples were taken at baseline and 12, 24, 36, 48, 72 and 96 h after methyl-D9-choline infusion. Nine participants (median age of 48 days) were recruited. The primary phosphatidylcholine (PC) composition consisted of PC16:0/16:0 or DPPC (32.0 ± 4.5%). Surfactant supplementation resulted in a 30% increase in DPPC. Methyl-D9 PC enrichment was detected after 12 h and differed significantly between patients, suggesting variability in surfactant synthesis/secretion by the CDP-choline pathway. Peak enrichment was achieved (0.94 ± 0.15% of total PC) at 24 h after methyl-D9-choline infusion. There was a trend towards reduced enrichment with the duration of mechanical ventilation prior to study recruitment; however, this was not statistically significant (p = 0.19). In this study, we demonstrated the fractional molecular composition and turnover of surfactant phospholipids, which was highly variable between patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study utilizes a hydrothermal-solvothermal method to facilitate the fabrication of organobentonite (OB) by intercalating the surfactant octadecylamine (ODA) using several solvents (water (OB-Aq), ethanol (OB–Et), and mix 50% water/ethanol (OB-Aq/Et)). The physicochemical features of the materials were investigated using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface analyzer, and thermogravimetry differential thermal analysis characterization. The study of structural properties found that surfactant intercalation transformed the basal spacing. This was shown by a lower x-ray diffraction value of 2θ at <6° and the presence of peeled-off layers in the scanning electron microscope image. The thermogravimetry analysis and regeneration adsorption evaluated the structural stability of OB, demonstrating its capacity to withstand temperatures up to 300 °C and undergo three cycles of adsorption. In addition, the adsorption processes on direct yellow are mainly characterized by the pseudo-first-order kinetic and Langmuir isotherm models. The interaction between alumina-silica bentonite and ODA chains in this investigation influenced the adsorption mechanism. The adsorption system is influenced by pH, temperature, and ion competition, which can induce the disintegration of the direct yellow structure from the surfaces of the adsorbent. The mesoporous structures obtained have the highest Langmuir chemisorption capacities for OB-Aq, OB-Et, and OB-Aq/Et, with values of 270.27 mg/g, 108.696 mg/g, and 2000 mg/g, respectively. This work suggests using an efficient method to fabricate OB for anionic dyes removal, specifically direct yellow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to provide environmental solutions for the treatment of oily residues (slop oil) from refineries, formulations with surfactants were proposed according to the type of dispersed system of the slop (crude oil emulsified with water and/or solid particles). Samples were collected in 12 tanks located at the Oxialquilados Venezolanos C.A., Barcelona Plant (Anzoátegui, Venezuela), performing physicochemical tests for the identification of the dispersed system (solubility, wettability, stability, water content) and microscopic observations (morphology and particle size). The results indicated heterogeneous slop samples with a water content of 2%–60% vol/vol consisting of single or multiple emulsions, with droplet sizes between approximately 10 and 30 micron; others formed by sludge or suspension (solids/oil/water). For the destabilization of these systems, aqueous and organic cleaning solutions were designed, determining the percentage of oil separated in the bottle tests at optimal and simulated field conditions. Field tests with volume scaling of the slop tank reported efficiencies of 63%, 85%, and 100% when treating the slop TK‐17, TK‐36, EE, respectively; for the mixture (Pulmon‐2) an efficiency of 47%. By combining heat treatment and two demulsifiers was possible to treat the slop TK‐17 (multiple emulsion). A considerable volume of water can be drained from the tanks for use in the plant. In conclusion, the surfactant formulas were effective in the recovery of a significant amount of crude oil, making it feasible to return it to the generating entity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The industrial laundry sector is a major user of water and chemicals such as surfactants, and one of the largest producers of wastewater. Although treated wastewaters comply with regulations, they still contain contaminants. Here we review laundry wastewater with focus on industrial laundry activities and their challenges, chemical composition of wastewater, and treatment techniques. We discuss advantages and drawbacks of treatment techniques that can be used as secondary treatment in already existing plants, or as tertiary treatment, i.e., complementary to an existing treatment. We observe that laundry is an expanding industrial sector with increasing water requirements, an abundant use of chemical substances, and increasingly stringent discharge regulations. There is a lack of chemical and biological knowledge on aqueous discharges. Moreover, the chemical composition, temporal variability, treatment information, and environmental and ecotoxicological data are poorly reported. The composition of wastewaters and additives, and their temporal variability are also poorly known. Similarly, detailed information on treatments is rare, and environmental and ecotoxicological data are poorly reported. Finding a tertiary water treatment process that is efficient, viable, and environmentally friendly is challenging since wastewater volumes are very high and contaminants are present at trace level in complex organo-mineral mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a series of cationic polyurethane fluorinated surfactants were synthesized using a series of isocyanates, and 1H, 1H, 2H,2H-tridecafluoro-1-octanol, 2-(dimethylamino)ethanol, and iodomethane as raw materials in a three-step sequential reaction. These fluorinated surfactants exhibited high surface activity and low critical micelle concentration. In addition, these fluorinated surfactants exhibited excellent wetting and emulsification properties at very low concentrations of 0.1 wt%. In addition the cationic polyurethane fluorinated surfactants are compounded into aqueous film-forming foam extinguishing agents, which exhibit excellent fire extinguishing properties. The desirable properties coupled with the simple and green preparation process make this strategy a new way to prepare sustainable alternatives to long fluoroalkyl chain surfactants. A new degradable cationic fluorocarbon surfactant prepared by coupling isocyanate and hydroxyl group was developed and applied to fire fighting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Root canal irrigants are difficult to diffuse deep into the dentinal tubules for root canal disinfection. The purpose of this study was to assess the ability of different diffusing enhancers to deliver chlorhexidine (CHX) into dentinal tubules. The diffusing property of five diffusing enhancers (acetone, DMSO, Triton X-100, JFC-E and azone) into dentinal tubules was firstly assessed using the Rhodamine B. The ability of the diffusing enhancers to deliver CHX into dentinal tubules was then evaluated both qualitatively and quantitatively. A deep dentinal tubule Enterococcus faecalis infection model was further established to test the bactericidal effect of CHX delivered by different diffusing enhancers. Finally, the in vitro cytotoxicity of these diffusing enhancers was tested using the CCK-8 method. Azone, Triton X-100 and JFC-E exhibited the largest maximum diffusing depths at all root canal parts (P < 0.05). Azone group also showed the highest percentage of diffusing depths for all root canal parts, followed by Triton X-100 (P < 0.05). The percentage of dead bacteria in dentinal tubules close to cementum layer was significantly higher in the CHX + azone group than in the other groups (P < 0.05), followed by CHX + Triton X-100 and CHX + JFC-E groups. The concentration of CHX diffusing onto the exterior surface of root was significantly higher in CHX + azone group than in the other groups (P < 0.05). All the diffusing enhancers showed relatively low cytotoxicity. Azone showed the highest diffusing ability with low cytotoxicity and might be employed as a carrier agent for either intracanal irrigants or medications to achieve more thorough root canal disinfection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider the stochastic Cahn-Hilliard-Navier-Stokes with surfactant on a bounded domain, driven by a multiplicative noise. The resulting system of partial differential equations consists of a Navier-Stokes systems for the (average) velocity, a sixth-order Cahn–Hilliard equation for the difference of local concentrations of the binary fluid mixture coupled with a fourth–order Cahn-Hilliard equation for the local concentration of the surfactant. The former has a smooth potential, while the latter has a singular potential. Both equations are coupled with a Navier-Stokes system with a multiplicative noise of Gaussian type for the (volume averaged) fluid velocity. The evolution system is endowed with suitable initial conditions, a no-slip boundary condition for the velocity field and homogeneous Neumann boundary conditions for the phase functions as well as for the chemical potentials. The existence of a global weak martingale solution is proved under non-Lipschitz assumptions on the coefficients in both two and three dimensional bounded domains. In the two dimensional case and when the viscosity of the mixture is assumed to be constant, we prove the pathwise uniqueness of the weak solution, and using the Yamada-Watanabe classical result to derive the existence of a strong solution (in probabilistic sense). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semi-volatile organic pollutants were found in most organic contaminated sites, especially in the industrial production of plastic and paint products, dismantling of electronic wastes, production of organic solvents, and chemical coatings. Electrokinetic remediation (EKR) was recognized as critical method to resolve the problem of organic pollutants separation and degradation. However, the low efficiency desorption and migration of organic pollutants was the main concerns during EK remediation. In this study, cyclododecane (CDD) was selected to investigate the process of electroosmotic flushing with anionic surfactant (sodium dodecyl sulfate, SDBS) and non-ionic surfactants (alcohol ethoxylate, AEO) for facilitating chemical desorption of low boiling point organic pollutants from soil. Simulated contaminated soil was subjected to treatment in an EK cell at 1 V/cm for 7 days. The experimental dependent variables, such as current, electroosmotic flow (EOF), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and the concentration of CDD in the contaminated soil were continuously monitored. The results revealed that both current and EOF exhibited the trend of SDBS (13.74 mA, 350.9 mL) > water (8.22 mA, 285.7 mL) > AEO (6.12 mA, 124.3 mL). Furthermore, the removal efficiency of CDD by surfactants also followed this order with corresponding percentages of 90.87% and 90.01%. The soil pH near the cathode increased, and it caused alkalization trend of the flowing soil solution and improvement of CDD removal rate. Conversely, the lowest EC value was observed in the middle of the soil chamber. The highest overall CDD removal rate was achieved by employing a strategy of surfactant-assisted electrokinetic remediation, and approximately 90% CDD was transfered to the liquid phase. These findings contribute to our understanding of spatial and temporal variations in pollutant removal and the interplay between different electrokinetic variables during EK remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims at exploring properties of fluorine-free foams co-stabilized by nanoparticles (NPs) and surfactant. The mixed dispersion liquids composed of silica NPs, nonionic hydrocarbon surfactant (APG-0810), and organosilicon surfactant (CoatOsil-77) was prepared. The NP-intensified foams under the action of n-heptane (flammable liquid) were focused by analyzing aggregation behavior of surfactants, initial foaming height, foams drainage and decay, and single vertical film stability of the mixed dispersion liquids. The findings show that the presence of surfactants improves surface activity of water obviously. After adding NPs, the interactions between surfactant molecules are destroyed but new aggregates formed. Foaming ability decreases but stability increases significantly with increasing NP concentration. After n-heptane is added, intensified interactions exist among surfactant molecules, NPs, and oil droplet, promoting formation of some larger aggregates and increasing the surface tension and viscosity but decreasing the conductivity and foaming ability. In addition, the presence of n-heptane accelerates foam drainage and volume decay and thinning process of the vertical liquid film. NPs with an appropriate concentration can improve foaming ability, foam stability, and the corresponding oil resistivity of foam. This study can provide theoretical guidance for the development of new fluorine-free foams used for liquid fuel fire. Highlights: Intense interactions exist among SiO2 NPs, surfactant molecules, and oil droplets. Foaming ability is reduced by the presence of SiO2 NPs and oil droplets. SiO2 NPs with concentration above 1% can effectively improve foam oil resistivity. SiO2 NPs enhances foam oil resistivity be improving foam film stability under oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorocarbon oils are uniquely suited for many biomedical applications due to their inert, bioorthogonal properties. In order to interface fluorocarbon oils with biological systems, non‐ionic fluorosurfactants are necessary. However, there is a paucity of non‐ionic fluorosurfactants with low interfacial tension (IFT) to stabilize fluorocarbon phases in aqueous environments (such as oil‐in‐water emulsions). We developed non‐ionic fluorosurfactants composed of a polyethylene glycol (PEG) segment covalently bonded to a flexible perfluoropolyether (PFPE) segment that confer low IFTs between a fluorocarbon oil (HFE‐7700) and water. The synthesis of a panel of surfactants spanning a molecular weight range of 0.64–66 kDa with various hydrophilic‐lipophilic balances allowed for identification of minimal IFTs, ranging from 1.4 to 17.8 mN m−1. The majority of these custom fluorosurfactants display poor solubility in water, allowing their co‐introduction with fluorocarbon oils and minimal leaching. We applied the PEG5PFPE1 surfactant for mechanical force measurements in zebrafish, enabling exceptional sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Marangoni stress-induced dynamics of a two-dimensional inviscid bubble loaded with insoluble surfactant moving in a linear temperature gradient is studied in the limit of small Reynolds, capillary and thermal Péclet numbers. The bubble moves due to the combined effects of thermocapillary Marangoni stresses and those induced by the advective-diffusive spreading of an initial concentration of surfactant on the bubble boundary. It is shown that this nonlinear multiphysics initial value problem is linearizable at any finite non-zero value of a surface Péclet number P e s governing the size of surface diffusion of the insoluble surfactant relative to its advective spreading. This is done by showing that the dynamics can be encoded in the evolution of a function, analytic and single-valued outside the bubble, that satisfies a complex partial differential equation of Burgers type. It is shown that this equation can be linearized by a complex generalization of the classical Cole–Hopf transformation. A numerical method is formulated to solve this linear partial differential equation and determine the Marangoni dynamics of a bubble with some initial surfactant concentration and illustrative calculations are carried out. Results are shown to be consistent with exact equilibrium solutions available from the formulation as P e s → 0 and P e s → ∞ and a perturbative formula for the bubble migration velocity at large but finite P e s . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIodine (I) is a beneficial micronutrient for crop plants and essential for human health, yet approximately two billion people worldwide suffer from I deficiency, resulting in significant health issues. Agricultural soils often lack sufficient I, resulting in crops with low I content. However, tomatoes have shown potential to accumulate I when supplemented externally, making them an ideal candidate for I biofortification, particularly as an alternative to iodized salt for individuals on low-sodium diets. This two-year greenhouse pot experiment evaluated the effectiveness of foliar application of potassium iodide (KI) in biofortifying two commercial tomato hybrids. Different concentrations of I (0, 1, 3, 6, and 9 mM/plant) were applied as foliar treatments to assess their effects on physiological parameters, yield attributes, and quality traits, especially I enrichment in tomato fruit. The results demonstrated that foliar application of KI significantly increased fruit I contents at concentrations that also promoted overall plant growth and development. These findings underscored the efficient translocation of I through the phloem in tomatoes. I enrichment in tomato fruits ranged up to 5.27 mg/kg, exceeding the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 150 μg/day. Even lower doses of 1–3 mM KI were effective in achieving significant I enrichment suitable for biofortification programs. In conclusion, tomato emerged as an excellent candidate for agronomic biofortification with I due to the practicality, and affordability of foliar application. The study highlights the potential of foliar I application as a feasible strategy for addressing global I deficiency, emphasizing its suitability for widespread adoption by farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer single‐chain nanoparticles (SCNPs) have found a wide range of applications spanning catalysts, sensors and nanomedicine. The generation of structured SCNPs from star‐shaped polymers with diverse architectures and functionalities affords a new avenue to expand the emerging research area. The large‐scale synthesis of structured SCNPs is described by the electrostatics‐mediated intramolecular crosslinking of three types of 3‐armed star‐shaped polymers (T‐P4VP, T‐PS‐b‐P4VP, and T‐P4VP‐b‐PS), whose configuration is tunable from spherical to cage‐shaped to dumbbell‐shaped and star‐shaped. The structured SCNPs are amphiphilic and can be used as solid surfactants to stabilize different types of emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide a novel investigation that demonstrates the synthesis of silver-doped bismuth oxide (ABO), holmium-doped bismuth oxide (HBO), nanostructured bismuth oxide (BO), and silver-holmium co-doped bismuth oxide (CDBO) by a cost-effective and straightforward surfactant-assisted co-precipitation technique. In comparison to the BO, ABO, and HBO samples, the optical tests revealed that the CDBO sample exhibited superior photocatalytic characteristics. This is possibly attributed to the physical, optical, and structural properties of the material tailored by the synergistic effect of the adopted strategies, i.e., nanotechnology, oxygen vacancies, and co-doping. The microstructures, physicochemical properties, morphological characteristics, and compositional attributes of the synthesized materials were investigated using sophisticated characterization techniques. The intrinsic conductivity of the bismuth oxide was enhanced with the incorporation of Ag and Ho as co-dopants, as shown by the results obtained from two probe current-voltage experiments. The co-doped sample exhibited the highest efficacy in decomposing rhodamine B dye, with a degradation rate of 91 % during a mere 70-min exposure to W-lamp illumination. The most ideal settings for CDBO photocatalytic activities were identified by comprehensive parameter optimization research. These parameters include a basic pH, a catalyst dosage of 25 mg, a dye concentration of 15 ppm, and an operating temperature of 30 °C. The co-doped and nanostructured photocatalyst also showed an outstanding capability to break down orange II and phenol dye. The trapping experiments' results indicate that the hydroxyl and superoxide radicals play a significant role in the mineralization of the tested dye. [Display omitted] • Co-doped Bi 2 O 3 NPs have been prepared via wet route. • Synthesized samples were characterized via PXRD, FTIR, SEM, BET, and I–V studies. • Co-doping create structural defects and reduced the band gap. • Current-voltage study confirms improved current conductivity. • Co-doped Bi 2 O 3 effectively mineralized the RhB, Orange II and phenol dye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Administering surfactant timely and appropriately is important to minimize lung injury but remains challenging in preterm neonates with respiratory distress syndrome. The published literature supports that lung ultrasound (LUS) score can predict surfactant need. Neonatal LUS scanning specification and parameter setting guidelines have been recently published for standardization. However, variations in scanning protocols and machine settings hinder its clinical implementation widely. This observational study aims to internally validate the suggested LUS protocol in a neonatal intensive care unit to establish a correlation between LUS scores and surfactant need as the first step of integrating LUS in the clinical practice. Study Design LUS was performed on 40 eligible preterm neonates within 3 hours after birth or before surfactant administration between May 2020 and March 2021. The neonates were between 27 and 32 weeks' gestational age, and all had respiratory distress. Neonates with known congenital anomalies were excluded. A high-frequency linear probe was used to obtain LUS images from six lung zones which were scored using a 0 to 3 system, yielding a maximum of 18 points. Treating physicians were blinded to the LUS score. Receiver operating characteristic analysis determined the optimal LUS score cut-off for predicting surfactant need. Results Fifteen of the 40 neonates (38%) required higher oxygen fraction and received surfactant. In our cohort, an LUS score ≥10 was identified as the optimal cut-off for predicting surfactant need, with a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 84%. The area under the curve was 0.8 (p = 0.0003). LUS predicted surfactant need at a median of 3.5 hours earlier than traditional clinical decision (p < 0.0037). Conclusion LUS is a helpful adjunct for predicting surfactant need in preterm neonates. This study describes an approach to implement the LUS protocol and score for clinical decision-making in the clinical practice. Key Points LUS is a helpful adjunct for predicting surfactant need in preterm neonates. Machine setting variation and probe selection may affect LUS image and score. LUS score should be validated at the local unit before clinical implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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AbstractImmunoassays based on the specific antigen—antibody interactions are efficient tools to detect various compounds and estimate their content. Usually, these assays are implemented in water-saline media with composition close to physiological conditions. However, many substances are insoluble or cannot be molecularly dispersed in such media, which objectively creates problems when interacting in aquatic environments. Thus, obtaining immunoreactants and implementing immunoassays of these substances need special methodological solutions. Hydrophobicity of antigens as well as their limited ability to functionalization and conjugation are often overlooked when developing immunoassays for these compounds. The main key finding is the possibility to influence the behavior of hydrophobic compounds for immunoassays, which requires specific approaches summarized in the review. Using the examples of two groups of compounds—surfactants (alkyl- and bisphenols) and fullerenes, we systematized the existing knowledge and experience in the development of immunoassays. This review addresses the challenges of immunodetection of poorly soluble substances and proposes solutions such as the use of hydrotropes, other solubilization techniques, and alternative receptors (aptamers and molecularly imprinted polymers). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: At present, preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in China present higher mortality and morbidity rates than those in high-income countries. The aim of this nationwide survey was to assess the clinical management of RDS in China. Methods: A nationwide cross-sectional survey to assess adherence to RDS management recommendations was performed. One neonatologist per hospital was randomly selected. The primary outcome was the key care of RDS management. Results: Among the 394 participating hospitals, 88·3% were birthing centres. The number of doctors and nurses per bed were 0·27 and 0·72, respectively. Antenatal corticosteroids (any dose) were administered to 90% of the women at risk of preterm birth at < 34 weeks of gestation (90·0% inborn vs. 50·0% outborn, p < 0·001). The median fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) for initial resuscitation was 0·30 for babies born at ≤ 32 weeks of gestation and 0·25 for those born at > 32 weeks. T-piece resuscitators were available in 77·8% of delivery rooms (DRs) (tertiary hospitals: 82·5% vs. secondary hospitals: 63·0%, p < 0·001). Surfactant was used in 51·6% of the DRs. Less invasive surfactant administration (LISA) was used in 49·7% of the hospitals (tertiary hospitals: 55·3% vs. secondary hospitals: 31·5%, p < 0·001). Primary non-invasive ventilation was initiated in approximately 80·0% of the patients. High-frequency oscillation ventilation was primarily reserved for rescue after conventional mechanical ventilation (MV) failure. Caffeine was routinely used during MV in 59·1% of the hospitals. Bedside lung ultrasonography was performed in 54·3% of the health facilities (tertiary hospitals: 61·6% vs. secondary hospitals: 30·4%, p < 0·001). Qualified breast milk banks and Family Integrated Care (FICare) were present in 30·2% and 63·7% of the hospitals, respectively. Conclusions: Significant disparities in resource availability and guidelines adherence were evident across hospitals. Future strategies should address DR facilities and medication access, technical training, staff allocation, and ancillary facility development for a better management of RDS patients in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient and scalable Buchwald‐Hartwig amination towards the synthesis of the API candidate 4‐((2‐Chlorophenyl)amino)‐6‐((6‐methylpyridin‐2‐yl)amino)nicotinamide as a JAK inhibitor was described. The process was developed using water and a water‐miscible co‐solvent. It was facilitated by the benign by design surfactant TPGS‐750‐M, that promoted the robust and reliable preparation of our target compound in high yields, with improved reaction profile and via an operationally simple protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly recognised for their significant impact on the environment and human health. Understanding MPs is crucial to grasp their widespread presence in various environmental areas. The unique properties of MPs, such as their small size, durability, and potential to adsorb and transport environmental pollutants, underscore the necessity of studying their characteristics. This study aims to investigate the physical and chemical characteristics of polypropylene microplastics (PPMPs) and address the dispersion stability issues associated with them. The PPMPs were characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealing a surface structure marked by cracks, fractures, and a rough texture. The PPMPs were observed as irregularly shaped, white particles. Their size distribution spans from 14 to 96 µm, with a mean size of 50.00 µm. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence of polypropylene functional groups, specifically identifying characteristic peaks at 2952-2846 cm-1 and 1456 -1376 cm-1, indicating C-H stretching and bending vibrations, respectively, with additional peaks suggesting degradation. The effect of different concentrations of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) on PPMPs dispersion indicated that 5% SLS led to superior dispersion of PPMPs, thereby addressing the stability issue. These findings provide comprehensive insights into the physical and chemical attributes of PPMPs and their dispersion stability, offering a foundation for informed environmental assessments and the development of effective mitigation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel experimental data have been presented on the influence of the surface tension of a liquid on the dispersity of droplets in the spray cone of an ejection atomizer with forward and swirling gas feeds. The droplet-size distributions were measured with the optical method of small angles of the indicatrix of scattering. A decrease of nearly 10–17% in the median diameter of droplets of distilled water in the spray cone has been demonstrated with reduction in the coefficient of surface tension of water as a result of adding surfactants to it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China's low-permeability reservoirs possess abundant resources characterized by poor rock properties, strong heterogeneity, and fine pore throats, leading to low displacement efficiency. This study expands the concentration window for achieving ultra-low interfacial tension (ULT) by adding co-surfactants to the primary surfactant. Research indicates that the critical micelle concentration (cmc) and corresponding interfacial tension (γcmc) of the compounded system are lower than those of individual components. When the molar ratio of M to Q is 1:1, the interaction parameter βm reaches its minimum value, indicating the strongest synergistic effect within the system. The compounded system achieves an oil-water interfacial tension as low as 0.0021 mN/m at 0.25% M + 0.025% Q, enhancing recovery efficiency by 0.88% compared to the single component M. Utilizing micro-etching microscopy and natural core physical model experiments, the compounded surfactant system's recovery efficiency increment reaches 19.7%, significantly surpassing water flooding effects. This provides robust support for the efficient development of the Jiyuan X reservoir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the efficiency of crude oil recovery, reduce the adhesion and adsorption of crude oil in the formation, reduce the interfacial tension of oil and water to form a stable emulsion, the performance evaluation of new surfactants and methods for improving oil recovery are studied. The esterification reaction is used to synthesize the raw material of glyceryl monooleate succinic acid monoester, and the raw material is neutralized with an alkaline solution to prepare a new surfactant. Through experiments, the surfactant's interfacial tension, salt resistance, temperature resistance, emulsification, viscosity reduction and other properties were evaluated, and the effect of changing the oil recovery rate after using the surfactant was studied. Test results show that this new surfactant can significantly reduce the water-oil interfacial tension, and can still reduce the water-oil interfacial tension even in saline environments and high temperature environments. After the temperature reaches 50°C, the temperature resistance is basically stable; When the surfactant concentration of the water-oil ratio is lower than 7:3 and higher than 700mk/L, it can reduce the viscosity of the water-oil mixture; the surfactant has good foam performance and emulsification, and can effectively improve crude oil recovery. Use 0.25% mass fraction surfactant, can effectively improve oil recovery, but abnormal low-pressure environment will affect the recovery effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an important unconventional oil and gas resource, tight oil reservoirs are difficult to achieve ideal recovery rates with conventional oil recovery methods. In this paper, the oil driving effect of different gases (CO2 and N2) in tight reservoirs was investigated, and the auxiliary roles of chemicals such as surfactants and polymers in the gas driving process were also discussed. An autoclave was used for the different gas drive experiments, with a set pressure range of 10 MPa to 30 MPa, a constant temperature of 60°C, and the gas injection rate was adjusted to evaluate the drive effect. In addition, the effects of surfactants SDBS and C12-14 Pareth-7, as well as polymers PAM and HPAM at different concentrations on the gas drive effect were investigated. The results showed that the oil driving effect of CO2 was better than that of N2, and the oil recovery of CO2 drive was increased by more than 20% at 30 MPa and 20 mL/min. With the addition of surfactant, SDBS increased the recovery by 15% at 0.3% concentration, while PAM increased the recovery by 10% at 0.4% concentration. This study demonstrated the superiority of CO2 gas drive in tight reservoirs and elucidated the enhancement effect of chemical adjuvants in the gas drive process by analyzing detailed experimental data. These findings provide an important theoretical basis and technical support for optimizing the gas-drive development scheme in tight reservoirs, which improves the crude oil recovery and has important practical application value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of the study of the oil collecting and oil dispersing properties of the quaternary ammonium salts formed by undecanoic and tetradecanoic acids, which are monobasic carboxylic acids, with triethanolamine (TEA) in distilled, drinking, and sea waters contaminated with Balakhani Oil. The surface activity property of the products of different concentrations of these complexes was calculated using a tensiometer, and the elemental composition was calculated using the calculation method. A comparative study of the element composition of the salts of both acids formed with TEA shows that the mass fraction of carbon in the complex formed by tetradecanoic acid with TEA is higher than in the other complex. Comparison of the surface activity property of the complexes formed by undecane and tetradecanoic acid with TEA shows that the complex compound formed by tetradecanoic acid with TEA shows more surface activity property. Therefore, as the mass fraction of carbon element increases in the complexes formed by undecane and tetradecanoic acid with TEA, the complex compound shows more surface activity properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of interactive experiments are conducted to analyze the drag reduction technology with a rotating disk apparatus that combines microgroove structure and drag‐reducing additives including polyethylene oxide (PEO), cetyltrimethyl ammonium chloride (CTAC), and sodium salicylate (NaSal). By varying the disk type, concentration of drag‐reducing additives, temperature, and Reynolds number (Re), the corresponding drag reduction rates are obtained effectively. The experimental results indicate that adding CTAC strengthens the heat degradation and shear resistance of PEO; while PEO can enhance the ability of CTAC to form micellar structures and balance energy distribution at low concentrations. Moreover, the synergistic effect of these two additives presents a better drag reduction performance with a maximum drag reduction rate of 24.1%; while the microgroove structure enhances the effect of active drag reduction. Therefore, the combination of active and passive drag reduction technology broadens the application of energy saving and consumption reduction in hydraulic rotating machinery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Less invasive surfactant administration (LISA) has become the preferred method of surfactant administration for spontaneously breathing babies on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Summary: The development of LISA followed the need to combine CPAP and surfactant replacement as mainstay treatment options for respiratory distress syndrome, thereby avoided exposure to positive pressure ventilation. Key Messages: This review summarises the current knowns and unknowns of LISA including the physiological concept, its relevance for short-term and long-term outcomes and the challenges for practical implementation of LISA as part of a less invasive respiratory care bundle. Further, we provide an update of the evidence on alternatives to LISA, for example, nebulised surfactant administration, pharyngeal deposition of surfactant and delivery via supraglottic airway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supercapacitors require excellent cycling stability and rate capability for electrodes. The NiCo2S4 spinel structure has caught much attention for its high conductivity and high theoretical specific capacity. However, due to the lack of active sites, it has been restricted in supercapacitors. In this research, the NiCo2S4 nano-material with needle, sheet and porous network morphologies were prepared by the addition of different kinds of surfactants via a simple hydrothermal method. At 1 mA/cm2, capacitance of these NiCo2S4 nanomaterials is measured as 2.09 F/cm2, 3.22 F/cm2, and 4.42 F/cm2, respectively. It was found that the exposure ratio of (111) and (220) crystal facets also has an effect on electrochemical performance, and NiCo2S4 with I (1 1 1) /I (2 2 0) of 3:1 showed better performance. Furthermore, NiCo2S4-PN//AC asymmetrical supercapacitor was assembled with NiCo2S4-PN serving as positive electrode and activated carbon (AC) as negative electrode. At a power density of 7.284 mW/cm2, energy density achieved was 0.625 mWh/cm2. Additionally, capacitance retention rate remained at 79.6% of initial capacitance after 1500 cycles. These outcomes are of great significance for developing more efficient, stable and reliable transition metal sulfide-based supercapacitors. NiCo2S4 nanomaterials with needle, sheet, and porous network morphologies with different exposure ratios of (111)/(220) crystal facets were obtained using a simple two-step hydrothermal method. The type of surfactant plays a key role in the preparation of NiCo2S4 nanomaterials. The cyclic stability and rate capability of NiCo2S4 nanomaterials were improved by increasing the ratio of exposed (111)/(220) crystal facets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An effective approach to enhance the photocatalytic performance of CuO nanoparticles (NPs) is the use of hydrothermal synthesis. The CuO NPs were synthesized by hydrothermal technique in the presence of anionic surfactant. Structural, functional, morphological, chemical composition and optical properties of the synthesized NPs were characterized by using XRD, FTIR, SEM, UV-visible DRS and PL. The average crystallite size for pure, 0.05 M SHMP and 0.05 M SHMP assisted CuO samples are around 13 nm, 11 nm and 10 nm respectively. It was observed that the size of particle is affected by the nature of surfactant. Additionally, in all the samples, FTIR spectra show three identical Cu-O vibration modes that indicate the presence of crystalline CuO monoclinic structure. Thus, the spherical like CuO nanostructure can be used as an ideal material for photocatalytic performance. The synthesized NPs are then used to photo-catalytically degrade the methyl violet dye in aqueous media. Surfactant-assisted CuO NPs showed better photocatalytical activity than bare CuO NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles provide a promising, cost-effective eco-friendly solution to the challenges posed by heavy-oil reservoirs, significantly enhancing oil recovery rates by reducing viscosity without requiring extensive thermal inputs. In this study, carbon nanospheres (CNSs) and functionalized-CNSs nanofluids were prepared by incorporating surfactants (T80 or BMIMCl). These nanofluids were evaluated for their efficacy in upgrading crude oil, particularly focusing on viscosity-reduction. Rheological tests were conducted across varying shear rates (60–300 s−1) and concentrations (0.02–3 wt.%) to comprehensively assess the impact of these additives on the crude oil's proprieties. The results showed a notable enhancement in crude oil viscosity reduction, with the following order observed: CNS-TiO2 < CNS-TiO2/DMIMCl < CNS-TiO2/T80, yielding reduction rates of 95%, 95.83%, and 97.08%, respectively, at an optimal dosage of 2.75 wt.% and a shear rate of 300 s−1. The surface functionalization of CNS particles and their crystallinity are the main mechanisms driving the reduction in oil viscosity. Moreover, the properties of the crude oil were investigated upon the utilization of CNS-TiO2/T80 nanofluid. It was found that this nanofluid led to a substantial reduction in sulfur content by 78.32% and a significant decrease in the percentage of heavier molecules, ranging from C12 to C35 and up to C36, with 47.76% and 97.98%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The economic competitiveness of 2G-bioethanol technology should improve through the improvement of the sugar release and the valorization of by-products, especially lignin. Thus, an integrated scheme with corncob was developed to produce ethanol using low dosages of cellulases and value-added products from the semi-simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSSF) residue. Enzymatic hydrolysis and SSSF of acid pretreated corncob (< 20 mesh and > 20 mesh) were carried out under cellulase dosages of 5, 10, and 15 FPU/g in the absence and presence of polyethylene glycol 1500 (PEG 1500). The SSSF residue was used to obtain lignosulfonate via sulfomethylation reaction and phenolic acids via alkaline hydrolysis using 4% (w/v) sodium hydroxide and 0–5% (v/v) hydrogen peroxide. Pretreated corncob < 20 mesh allowed the reduction of cellulase dosage to 5 FPU/g without compromising sugar release. The addition of PEG 1500 boosted sugar release, reaching 56.73 g/L glucose under 20% (w/v) solids. The maximum ethanol production of 31.64 g/L was obtained using 5 FPU/g cellulases, 2% (w/w) PEG 1500, and 20% (w/v) solids (gradual addition). FTIR confirmed the preparation of lignosulfonate from SSSF residue, and the surfactant showed good stabilization performance in oil/water systems (emulsification index≈30%). High yields of p-coumaric acid (8045.3 mg/100 g) and ferulic acid (1429.4 mg/100 g) were obtained in alkaline hydrolysis with 5% (v/v) hydrogen peroxide. Based on these findings, corncob is versatile and can create a biorefinery with high economic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of foam injection as an enhanced oil recovery (EOR) technique has been suggested since the 1960s to address issues with gas injection. Foam is composed of gas, water, and surfactant, which is utilized to stabilize the foam. This study investigates the synergy effect of anionic surfactant and two zwitterionic surfactants on enhancing solution stability. The anionic surfactant used is sodium dodecyl sulfate, while the chosen zwitterionic surfactants are cocamidopropy hydroxy sultine and Cocamido Propyl Betaine. Analyzing the images of the generated foam showed that initially, the small and uniform bubbles are formed in all concentrations. The foam size is then increased and in concentrations higher than a critical value, the bubbles grow faster which is likely due to the formation of micelles and deposition of surfactants. This leads to early collapse of the foam structure. The quantitative half-life results approved that the most optimal compound was obtained with equal proportions of sodium dodecyl sulfate and Cocamido Propyl Betaine with concentration of 3 wt% (1:1 ratio, 0.15 wt%-0.15 wt%). To quantitatively study on foam characteristics, conductivity and interfacial tension tests were performed. The results of the conductivity tests showed that micelles were formed in concentrations of more than 0.3 wt%. Interfacial tension measurements revealed that addition of a small amount of surfactants to the base solution, led to reduction of the interfacial tension value from 29.2 (mN/m) in base solution to less than 1 mN/m for solutions treated with surfactant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To analyse the evidence of non‐invasive neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NIV‐NAVA) in preterm neonates compared to nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) or nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV). Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials and included studies where NIV‐NAVA was analysed in preterm (<37 gestational weeks) born neonates. Our main outcomes were the need for endotracheal intubation, the need for surfactant therapy, and reintubation rates. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Results: A total of five studies were included. The endotracheal intubation rate was 25% in the NIV‐NAVA group and 26% in the nCPAP group (RR 0.91, CI: 0.56–1.48). The respective rates for surfactant therapy were 30% and 35% (RR 0.85, CI: 0.56–1.29). The reintubation rate in neonates previously invasively ventilated was 8% in the NIV‐NAVA group and 29% in the nCPAP/NIPPV group (RR 0.29, 95%CI: 0.10–0.81). Evidence certainty was rated as low for all outcomes. Conclusions: NIV‐NAVA as the primary respiratory support did not reduce the need for endotracheal intubation or surfactant therapy. NIV‐NAVA seemed to reduce the reintubation rate after extubation in pre‐term neonates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]