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Guaymas Basin, located in the Gulf of California, is a hydrothermally active marginal basin. Due to steep geothermal gradients and localized heating by sill intrusions, microbial substrates like short-chain fatty acids and hydrocarbons are abiotically produced from sedimentary organic matter at comparatively shallow depths. We analyzed the effect of hydrocarbons on uptake of hydrocarbons by microorganisms via nano-scale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) and microbial sulfate reduction rates (SRR), using samples from two drill sites sampled by IODP Expedition 385 (U1545C and U1546D). These sites are in close proximity of each other (ca. 1 km) and have very similar sedimentology. Site U1546D experienced the intrusion of a sill that has since then thermally equilibrated with the surrounding sediment. Both sites currently have an identical geothermal gradient, despite their different thermal history. The localized heating by the sill led to thermal cracking of sedimentary organic matter and formation of potentially bioavailable organic substrates. There were low levels of hydrocarbon and nitrogen uptake in some samples from both sites, mostly in surficial samples. Hydrocarbon and methane additions stimulated SRR in near-seafloor samples from Site U1545C, while samples from Site U1546D reacted positively only on methane. Our data indicate the potential of microorganisms to metabolize hydrocarbons even in the deep subsurface of Guaymas Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a one-step reverse-phase microemulsion method, surface-amine-modified cobalt-silicon mixed oxide (BA-Co-SiO2) was successfully prepared, which was characterized by SEM, FTIR, UV-Vis DRS, XPS, TG-DTA, N2 adsorption-desorption, and hydrophobicity/lipophilicity measurement, etc. In-situ introduction of organic amine on the surface caused three positive effects on the improvement of the catalytic oxidation ability: the first one is to generate a higher specific surface area; the second one is to modify the surface of the catalyst to be more hydrophobic and lipophilic; and the third one is to facilitate the generation of Co(III) with a higher valence state that owns a stronger oxidation ability. Under the solvent-free conditions and with molecular oxygen as the oxidant, BA-Co-SiO2 showed a much higher catalytic activity for the selective oxidation of ethylbenzene compared with Co-SiO2 without amine. The reported results supplied a good reference for designing the efficient catalyst through the modification of the surface property and catalyst's structure with a simple in-situ method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low salinity water injection stands as a progressive method for enhanced oil recovery, representing a current focus of extensive research. Understanding wettability alteration in crude oil is hindered by its intricate nature, posing a challenge for researchers. In order to better understand wettability alteration and underlying phenomena in an oil–brine–rock system, a fundamental study was carried out using pure hydrocarbon (aliphatic: n‐heptane; aromatic: toluene) and crude oil on quartz surface against engineered water consist of monovalent (NaCl) and divalent (MgSO4) salts in various compositions (NaCl:MgSO4: 100:0; NaCl:MgSO4: 0:100; NaCl:MgSO4: 75:25; NaCl:MgSO4: 50:50; NaCl:MgSO4: 25:75). The variables under investigation include temperature (25 to 65°C), pure hydrocarbons (toluene, n‐heptane), crude oil (Indian offshore), and brine (B1 to B5) with concentration (0 to 20,000 ppm). The findings show that when brine solution contains solely NaCl salt at a concentration of 2000 ppm, n‐heptane exhibits a minimum contact angle on quartz plate. Contrarily, toluene exhibits a low contact angle with a brine solution that only contains MgSO4 salt at a concentration of 2000 ppm. The intriguing finding is that when monovalent and divalent salts are equal (NaCl:MgSO4: 50:50) in the brine, crude oil exhibits the smallest contact angle on quartz. Additionally, temperature and contact angle are directly related for all oil types. The optimal brine for achieving the minimum contact angle on quartz surface is (B1)2000 for n‐heptane, (B2)2000 for toluene, and (B4)2000 for crude oil for the current study. The study findings indicate that the alteration in wettability due to brine composition and salinity varies among different oil samples, characterized by purely aliphatic, aromatic, and mixed components, and it depends on the type of salt compositions. Higher salts concentration minimally affects n‐heptane but influences toluene and crude oil contact angles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil spills pose significant threats to marine and freshwater environments, impacting ecosystems and drinking water sources. The present review incorporated an up‐to‐date statistical analysis of the oil spills globally including the types and sources of oil spills and the main habitats affected by the past incidents. It presented immediate and long‐term effects on aquatic organisms and habitats highlighting the necessity for action to protect the aquatic environment. The paper also elucidated a range of effective remediation and cleanup methods, presenting a comprehensive toolkit to mitigate ecological damage. Noticeably, the review identified crucial knowledge gaps in the literature: (i) the absence of marine plastic pollution in studies on oil spill impacts and (ii) the absence of a modeling framework that considers the presence of microplastics in the spillage region and their impacts on the overall weathering rate. From synthesizing essential knowledge on oil spill dynamics and identifying the knowledge gap in the literature, this review aims to enhance understanding and guide future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser-induced plasmas of materials containing hydrocarbons present strong carbon molecular emission features. Using these emissions to build models relating changes in spectral features to a physical parameter of the system, such as hydrocarbon content, can be difficult because of the dynamic complexity of the spectral features and temperature disequilibrium between molecular species. This study presents machine learning models trained to quantify the mole fraction of hexane in hexane–air plasmas from CN Violet and C2 Swan spectral features. Ensemble regression methods provide the most accurate predictions with root mean squared error on the order 10−2. Artificial neural network regressions produce predictions with superlative sensitivity, exhibiting detection limits as low as 0.008. These foundational models can be further refined with more advanced data to quantify the presence of carbon species in complex plasma environments, such as high-speed reacting flows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bida and Anambra Basins are major inland sedimentary basins located in the central and southern part of Nigeria with possible hydrocarbon potential but lack exploratory data. The present study aims at providing base line information on the thermal regime of the sedimentary basins, which would significantly contribute to its hydrocarbon prospect, investment opportunity and exploitation. The spectral analysis of the aeromagnetic anomaly data from the southern Bida Basin, northern Anambra Basin and adjacent basement complex terrain reveals the Curie point depth (CPD), geothermal gradient and heat flow in the region. The data reveals a CPD that varies between 19 and 30 km while the geothermal gradient is from 23 to more than 44 °C/km with heat flow values ranging from 50 to 109 mW/m2 in the southern Bida Basin. In the northern Anambra Basin, the CPD values range from 6.8 to 20 km and the heat flow values vary between 59 mWm2 and 109 mWm2, with a localized shallow CPD value of less than 6.8 km and associated high heat flow of 109 mWm2 in the central part of the basin. The delineated thermal patterns in the Bida and Anambra Basins are interpreted to be associated with the intrusions and the presence of deep-seated rift. The interpretation of the aeromagnetic data shows good agreement with the land surface temperature obtained from remote sensing data of the study area. The distribution of heat patterns in the southern Bida and northern Anambra Basins have implications for geothermal, source rock maturation and hydrocarbon generation evaluation of the basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crude oil spill has become a common phenomenon during oil production, transportation, and refining operations. It can occur in both land and water. While bioremediation and the use of cow dung for oil spill treatment have been established as an effective and environmentally friendly approach in the management of crude oil spill in land, little has been reported as it concerns water and most importantly, non-turbulent water bodies. The possibility of this application is of interest because non-turbulent water bodies have been reported to support the transport of petroleum hydrocarbon components down the water column, making the containment and treatment of polluted top surface insufficient. This paper reports on effort to treat an entire non-turbulent water body polluted with crude oil and with petroleum hydrocarbons diffusing through different depth of the water column. This was achieved by designing balls of cow dung with densities corresponding to that of the different depth strata of the water column, and then introduced into the polluted water. The balls then dissociate after a while, and filling the entire water volume with the cow dung particles, thus providing the necessary nutrients for microbial growth and activities across the entire water body. Samples of the water after treatment were then collected within a four (4) weeks post-treatment period and analysed using a GC-FID. At the end of the first week of treatment, the result showed a reduction of aliphatic hydrocarbons from 171.827mg/l, 98.641mg/l, 31.075mg/l and 18.675mg/l to 95.991mg/l, 33.914mg/l, 4.128mg/l, and 0.42mg/l and 1.12mg/l, 0.075mg/l, 0mg/l, and 0mg/l in the fourth week and at depths of 0.25m, 0.5m, 0.75m and 1.0m respectively. In the same vein, the aromatic hydrocarbons at the same depths, and after the first week of pre-treatment were 23.816mg/l, 12.942mg/l, 3.336mg/l and 0.962mg/l. At the end of the fourth week of post-treatment, negligible amount in all depths were recorded. These results show that the approach can be adopted in the treatment of oil spills in non-turbulent mangrove water bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioremediation using tropical marine algae provides cost effective and eco-friendly alternative mean of removing toxic and harmful substances from the environment. Bioremediation is an important tool in sustainable environmental management and protection. This study examined the productivity and bioremediation potential of Nannochloropsis oculata and Porphyridium cruentum in Water Soluble Fraction (WSF) of petroleum fuels by investigating the growth of Nannochloropsis oculata and Porphyridium cruentum at 0%, 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 75% 100% of WSF of kerosene, diesel, and gasoline. Growth was monitored optically every two days for fourteen days using 721 Visible Spectrophotometer. Productivity was measured using prescribed procedure. Bioremediation potential of test algae were examined using standard method for the GC analysis of diesel range organics in 100% WSFs. The minimum growth for both species was recorded at 100% in all the fuels. The maximum growth of Porphyridium cruentum was obtained at 10% in all fuels, while the maximum growth of Nannochloropsis oculata was obtained at 30% in both kerosene and gasoline and at 50% in diesel. Whereas Porphyridium cruentum was greatly inhibited by all fuels, Nannochloropsis oculata was stimulated at lower concentration of the fuels. Nannochloropsis oculata proved more efficient for bioremediation of the petroleum fuels with 84.58%, 65.51% and 70.77% removal efficiency for kerosene, diesel and gasoline respectively, while Porphyridium cruentum was 58.94%, 46.64% and 56.67% respectively. Nannochloropsis oculata is a very strong and reliable candidate for bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbons and should be subjected to further examination for sustainable and eco-friendly remediation of petroleum pollution. In this study, bioremediation of 100% Water Soluble Fraction (very high concentration) of the three most commonly used petroleum fuels (gasoline, diesel, kerosene) were examined. The bioremediation potential of the test algae were examined simultaneously in three petroleum fuels to enhance comparative assessment and to reduce the effect of environmental changes. This study identifies specific tropical marine alga that has high biomass productivity and bioremediation efficiency in tropical marine or coastal waters polluted with very high concentration of WSF of petroleum hydrocarbons. The result of this study is recommended for adoption by the bioremediation industries for the removal of high concentration of WSF of petroleum hydrocarbons in tropical marine waters and industrial waste waters. It may also be subjected to further examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of plasma treatment of sandblasted and acid-etched (SLA) titanium implants on surface cleansing and osseointegration in a beagle model. MATERIALS AND METHODS. For morphological analysis and XPS analysis, scanning electron microscope and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to analyze the surface topography and chemical compositions of implant before and after plasma treatment. For this animal experiment, twelve SLA titanium implants were divided into two groups: a control group (untreated implants) and a plasma group (implants treated with plasma). Each group was randomly located in the mandibular bone of the beagle dog (n = 6). After 8 weeks, the beagle dogs were sacrificed, and volumetric analysis and histometric analysis were performed within the region of interest. RESULTS. In morphological analysis, plasma treatment did not alter the implant surface topography or cause any physical damage. In XPS analysis, the atomic percentage of carbon at the inspection point before the plasma treatment was 34.09%. After the plasma treatment, it was reduced to 18.74%, indicating a 45% reduction in carbon. In volumetric analysis and histometric analysis, the plasma group exhibited relatively higher mean values for new bone volume (NBV), bone to implant contact (BIC), and inter-thread bone density (ITBD) compared to the control group. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups (P > .05). CONCLUSION. Within the limits of this study, plasma treatment effectively eliminated hydrocarbons without changing the implant surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial communities from freshwater sediments are involved in biogeochemical cycles and they can be modified by physical and chemical changes in the environment. Linking the microbial community structure (MCS) with physicochemistry of freshwater courses allows a better understanding of its ecology and can be useful to assess the ecological impact generated by human activity. The MCS of tributary channels from La Plata River affected by oil refinery (C, D, and E) and one also by urban discharges (C) was studied. For this purpose, 16S rRNA metabarcoding analysis, in silico metagenome functional prediction, and the hydrocarbon degradation potential (in silico predictions of hydrocarbon-degrading genes and their quantification by qPCR) of the MCS were studied. Principal coordinate analysis revealed that the MCS was different between sites, and it was not structured by the hydrocarbon content. Site C showed physicochemical characteristics, bacterial taxa, and an in silico functional prediction related to fermentative/heterotrophic metabolism. Site D, despite having higher concentration of hydrocarbon, presented autotrophic, syntrophic, and methanogenic pathways commonly involved in natural processes in anoxic sediments. Site E showed and intermediate autotrophic/heterotrophic behavior. The hydrocarbon degradation potential showed no positive correlation between the hydrocarbon-degrading genes quantified and predicted. The results suggest that the hydrocarbon concentration in the sites was not enough selection pressure to structure the bacterial community composition. Understanding which is the variable that structures the bacterial community composition is essential for monitoring and designing of sustainable management strategies for contaminated freshwater ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In this study, a methodology is developed that involves geochemical and geophysical prospecting methods to identify the type and concentration of hydrocarbons, soil and water resistivity-salinity, and the delineation of hydrocarbon migration in the subsurface within an agricultural region in the northern part of the state of Veracruz, Mexico, where a landfill resulting from hydrocarbon exploitation is the contamination source. Materials and methods: The methodology involves hydrocarbon fractionation by packed open column liquid chromatography (SARA: Saturates, Aromatics, Resins, and Asphaltenes), textural analysis by sieving, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM–EDX), salinity concentration, total petroleum hydrocarbon concentration in water (TPH), water resistivity, and salinity determination using a laboratory geo-electrical method and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT). Results and discussions: The hydrocarbon exhibited a stable colloidal stability, and the soil composition is of the general type, classified as clay-sandy with high concentrations of iron and strong salinity. The water showed TPH concentrations, and the resistivity and salinity exceeded the permissible limits set by Mexican standards. Electrical Resistivity Tomography delineated both recent and mature contamination. Conclusions: With this methodology, it was determined that the region exhibits active contamination directly related to the exploration, exploitation, and pipeline leakage of hydrocarbons. The most affected area was the agricultural zone (low-lying area) due to the overflow of contaminated water from the landfill. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft tissue adhesion and sealing around dental and maxillofacial implants, related prosthetic components, and crowns are a clinical imperative to prevent adverse outcomes of periodontitis and periimplantitis. Zirconia is often used to fabricate implant components and crowns. Here, we hypothesized that UV treatment of zirconia would induce unique behaviors in fibroblasts that favor the establishment of a soft tissue seal. Human oral fibroblasts were cultured on zirconia specimens to confluency before placing a second zirconia specimen (either untreated or treated with one minute of 172 nm vacuum UV (VUV) light) next to the first specimen separated by a gap of 150 µm. After seven days of culture, fibroblasts only transmigrated onto VUV-treated zirconia, forming a 2.36 mm volume zone and 5.30 mm leading edge. Cells migrating on VUV-treated zirconia were enlarged, with robust formation of multidirectional cytoplastic projections, even on day seven. Fibroblasts were also cultured on horizontally placed and 45° and 60° tilted zirconia specimens, with the latter configurations compromising initial attachment and proliferation. However, VUV treatment of zirconia mitigated the negative impact of tilting, with higher tilt angles increasing the difference in cellular behavior between control and VUV-treated specimens. Fibroblast size, perimeter, and diameter on day seven were greater than on day one exclusively on VUV-treated zirconia. VUV treatment reduced surface elemental carbon and induced superhydrophilicity, confirming the removal of the hydrocarbon pellicle. Similar effects of VUV treatment were observed on glazed zirconia specimens with silica surfaces. One-minute VUV photofunctionalization of zirconia and silica therefore promotes human oral fibroblast attachment and proliferation, especially under challenging culture conditions, and induces specimen-to-specimen transmigration and sustainable photofunctionalization for at least seven days.

Background: Childhood poisoning is an important cause of childhood morbidity and mortality, especially in children below five years of age. There is an increase in the range of household poisoning agents, particularly cheap hydrocarbon domestic fuel such as kerosene (paraffin). Objective: To describe the epidemiology of poisoning in the paediatric age group in a tertiary facility in Southwest Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study covering the period from January 2013 to December 2018 at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu Ogun State, Nigeria. Relevant data were extracted from patient’s records for analysis. Results: Out of the 2,881 admissions into the Children’s Emergency Room during the study period, 40 (1.4%) reported on account of poisoning but only the records of 31 were available for analysis. The male to female ratio was 2.1:1.The median age was 7.8 years. The case fatality rate was 3.2%. Kerosene was the leading agent of poisoning (17; 54.8%) and palm oil was the most frequently administered home remedy. Dyspnea was the most common presenting symptom. Only one death (3.2%) was recorded. Conclusion: Poisoning is a problem of young children and it frequently occurs in the home setting. Therefore, efforts should be targeted at educating caregivers about the dangers of poisoning in young children.

The purpose of this study is to identify the characteristics of Kurachine Dolomite reservoir rocks (KD), and the Kurachine Anhydrite cover rocks (KA) in the (Abo-Rabah) hydrocarbon field in the Ad-Daw Basin (central Syria). The reservoir and covering rocks, being the most important elements necessary for the presence of hydrocarbon traps. The study focuses on the reservoir Kurachine Dolomite rocks (KD), and the covering Kurachine Anhydrite rocks (KA) in the Abo-Rabah area in the Ad-Daw Basin (central Syria). The mentioned Kurachine formations consider to be favorite traps for hydrocarbon ac- cumulation in the (Abo Rabah) and adjacent area. A litho-stratigraphic model has been proposed for the study field, through analytical integration and interpretation processing. This model reveals differences between litho-stratigraphic relations in the concerned field. Most of significant reflectors in the district were investigated by transmitting the integrated seismic data into geological formations. Two Way Time (TWT) map of the reservoir formation (KD) has been originated. The comparison results of this study are with the previous results. It has been found that, the current prepared time map (TWT) is different from the previous maps, where the current (TWT) seems to be more realistic, because it is based on a larger number of boreholes, that are recently drilled in the study area. So, the reliability of the present results enabled to suggest three new promised hydrocarbon borehole locations favorable for drilling. Also, the current study exposed the relation between the clarity of the seismic signal and the thickness of kurachine anhydrite (KA) cover rocks.

Biomass has been suggested as a sustainable alternative to substitute fossil fuels. Based on the pyrolysis method, the biomass would be converted into energy through decomposition by thermal degradation under an inert atmosphere, resulting in charcoal, liquid, and gas products. The quality of oils is effectively enhanced through the pyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass and plastic due to the facilitation of deoxygenation by plastics. This study investigates the impact of incorporating low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic in co-pyrolysis with sago dregs (SDs) waste. Pyrolysis of SDs and LDPE mixtures with ratios of 5:1, 4:2, 3:3, 2:4, and 1:5 at various temperatures of 375°C, 425°C, and 475°C. The maximum oil yield obtained for SDs and LDPE pyrolysis was 44.94%. The calorific value (CV) of all observed compositions is a minimum of 10,579.57 kcal kg-1 and a maximum of 11,545.21 kcal kg-1. The gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis confirmed the interaction between SDs and LDPE on co-pyrolysis. The addition of LDPE will produce rich aliphatic and aromatic compounds, like the proportions of alkanes (45.53%), alkenes (30.62%), alcohol (0.4%), and benzene (17.68%). Co-pyrolysis of SDs and LDPE promotes enhanced oil production by reducing oxygenated compounds and increasing hydrocarbon compounds.

This research aims to develop an innovative contextual chemistry textbook on hydrocarbon concepts to enhance students' mastery of the subject. This research method used research and development with the ADDIE model, which consists of Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. The study was specifically confined to the development stage, as its primary focus is on assessing the validity of the developed products. The validation process involved two material expert validators, one media expert validator, one practitioner validator, and ten students from Ushuluddin NW Ubung Islamic Boarding School, who served as limited test validators. Quantitative data obtained from the feasibility validation results were analyzed using a percentage formula. Qualitative data in the form of responses and suggestions for improvement from validators are used as considerations for making revisions. The results showed that the validator assessment resulted in a very satisfactory average percentage, with material expert validators reaching 83% (very feasible category), media expert validators reaching 75% (feasible category), practitioner validators reaching 91% (very feasible category), and Limited student trials reached 89% (very feasible category). Therefore, this textbook successfully met high validity standards and can be considered suitable for use in the learning process.

The current investigation aims to classify Jaintia Hill coals into different types, ranks, and grades based on their geochemical and petrographic characteristics and to evaluate the potential utilization of these coals under the framework of different coal classification schemes, essential for various industrial, commercial, and residential applications. During the present study, representative coal samples were collected from the working coal mines of Khliehriat and Lad Rymbai areas of the East Jaintia hills of Meghalaya, India, and subjected to proximate analysis, ultimate analysis, and micro petrographic study. Using international and Indian classification schemes, an attempt has been made to propose the appropriate utilization of these coals. It has been observed that these coals have high vitrinite content and low ash content but have high sulfur content. The petrographic and geochemical data suggest that these coals can be utilized for gasification, hydrogenation, and as a coal blend for metallurgical coke-making in the steel industries. The coal samples were also investigated from the perspective of hydrocarbon source rock potential, and it was concluded that these coals have good source rock potential for gas and liquid hydrocarbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deoxygenation of organic acids, important biomass feedstocks and derivatives, to synthesize hydrocarbon products under mild electrochemical conditions, holds significant importance for the production of carbon-neutral biofuels. There is still limited research on the influential factors of the electrochemical decarboxylation reaction of medium-chain fatty acids. In this study, n-octanoic acid (OA) was chosen as the research subject to investigate the electrochemical decarboxylation behavior of OA on a platinum electrode, focusing on the influence of different alkali metal cations (Li+, Na+, K+), common anions (SO42-, Cl-), and electrolyte pH. It was found that KOH as an electrolyte exhibited the best performance for OA. Possibly, the larger size of K+ increased the alkalinity of the electrode surface, facilitating OA deprotonation. LiOH electrolyte reduced the solubility of OA, thereby inhibiting the decarboxylation reaction. SO42- exhibited a weak promoting effect on the decarboxylation reaction of OA, while Cl- showed no adverse effect although Cl- may adsorb on the electrode surface. Furthermore, unlike shortchain fatty acids, medium-chain OA can only achieve efficient decarboxylation under alkaline conditions due to its solubility properties. This study provides references and foundations for future efforts to enhance the efficiency of electrochemical decarboxylation synthesis of hydrocarbon biofuels from medium-chain fatty acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Membrane‐based separation has the merit of low carbon footprint. In this study, the pore size of metal–organic framework (MOF) membranes is rationally designed for discriminating various pairs of hydrocarbon isomers. Specifically, Zr‐MOF UiO‐66 (UiO stands for University of Oslo) membranes are developed for separating p/o‐xylene due to their proper pore size. For n‐hexane/2‐methylpentane separation, the functional groups and proportion of the ligands in UiO‐66 are gradually adjusted to effectively regulate the pore size, and UiO‐66‐33Br membranes are constructed. In addition, relying on the utilization of ligands with shorter length, MOF‐801 membranes with smaller pore size are fabricated for n/i‐butane separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrocarbon contamination is one of the most significant environmental problems, including in the marine environment. Several methods, such as chemical and physical remediation, have been constructed to remediate pollutants but remain side effects and have a relatively high cost. Bioremediation is an alternative method for degrading contaminants due to its eco-friendliness and low cost. During bioremediation, the enzyme oxygenase is produced by bacteria to degrade pollutants. However, the oxygenation enzyme's activity and compound profile during this bioremediation process are still sparsely explored. This study aimed to analyze oxygenation enzyme activity and compound profiles during the hydrocarbon bioremediation process by bacterial consortia of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Rhodococcus erythopolis. The materials of this research were the oxygenase enzyme activity, compound profile, and amount of BOD and COD during the bioremediation process. The results showed that the monooxygenase enzyme has activity between 0.257 and 3.859 U/mL. Meanwhile, the dioxygenase enzyme has activity between 0.579 and 5.402 U/mL. The final incubation compound profile found that Hexadecanoic acid methyl ester (C17H34O2) decreased by up to 47.66%. Moreover, BOD and COD reductions were 68.59% and 67.51%, respectively. This study concluded that oxygenation enzymes were produced to degrade pollutant compounds during the hydrocarbon bioremediation process. Further research is needed to improve the effectiveness of bioremediation by enhancing enzyme activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to evaluate the biostimulation potential of Nypa feuticans ash on the growth of indigenous heterotrophic bacteria and fungi for enhanced remediation of hydrocarbon polluted soil at B. Dere, Rivers State, Nigeria in an ex-situ experiment, using the completely randomized split plot experimental design. 2kg of oil polluted soils were treated with 10g, 20g, 30g, 40g, 50g and 60g of Nypa fruticans ash and monitored for biostimulation and growth of indigenous biodegrading heterotrophic bacteria (THBC) and fungi (THFC). The results of four months post residual and cumulative effect on treated soil showed optimum improvement of microbial load at 60g/2kg treatment of Nypa fruticans ash. Findings on THBC for post residual treatment soil ranged from 0.1×105 to 8.0 ×104 cfu/g, while the THFC ranged from 0.1×104 to 3.0 ×104 cfu/g. THBC for post cumulative treated soil ranged from 2.7 ×105 to 9.0 ×104 cfu/g, while THFC ranged from 0.2 × 104 to 3.0 ×104 cfu/g. Three bacteria genera isolated from the post treated soil ware Bacillus spp. (36.3%), Clostridium spp (33.4%) and staphylococcus spp. (30.3%), while two fungi genera namelyYeast spp. (58%) and Muccor spp. (42%) were isolated from the post treated soil. The high-count THB and THF recorded in both residual and cumulative treated soil compared to the oil polluted untreated soil is attributed to Nypa fruticans ash capacity to neutralize the toxic effects of the crude oil on the microbial population by rapid improvement of the soil physiochemical properties, favoring the growth of indigenous microorganisms in the soil. This study has shown that treatment of crude oil polluted soil with Nypa fruticans ash at 60g/2kg showed optimum improvement which enhanced the biostimulation and growth of indigenous petroleum degrading microorganism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to develop an electronic book on hydrocarbon study materials using the Four-Steps Teaching Material Development (4S TMD) method to develop students' critical thinking skills. To achieve this goal, an electronic book was developed using the 4S TMD method, which will be tested using the Development Research (DR) research method which consists of three stages: design, development, and evaluation. At this stage the study was the first part of the development of teaching materials which consisted of four stages: selection, arrangement, characterization, and didactic reduction. The results of the research were focused on the selection stages. At the selection stage, the development of teaching materials begins with the development of learning indicators, the development of the concept of hydrocarbons based on curriculum demands, the development of basic concepts sourced from international textbooks, and finally, the development of skills that can be integrated with the concept of hydrocarbons. The results of the selection stage were evaluated by expert lecturers in the field of chemistry education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of Petrochemical Industries in India is immense. Petrochemical products are very much the part and parcel of our everyday lives. It is one of the fastest growing industries. Reliance Industries is the leader in Indian petrochemical sector with a total market share of 70 percent. The passage is a bit different for the downstream petrochemical sector, which is highly fragmented in nature with around 50 companies existing in Indian market. Important safety features of Hydrocarbon Processing Plants like careful design, proper plant layout, adequate spacing of process/storage units, tank farms, loading/unloading facilities& adopting relevant Risk Management Techniques--to protect the hazards involved in hydrocarbon processing industry. Hydrocarbon Processing Industry wants to make its products safely and economically and also pay as low a premium for insurance as possible to commensurate with the appropriate cover. Insurance coverage of the Refinery or Hydrocarbon Processing Industry, relates to protect fire and explosion hazards, the physical and consequential loss of production and profits. The underwriter needs to focus on Design, Layout, Size, Process, Maintenance & Operating Procedures, Identification of Risk Exposures, available Safety Aspects, implementation of Fire Prevention &Fire Protection Methods & Techniques available and of course the most appropriate & adequate insurance coverage to be sorted out. Petrochemical tariff/current guidelines in place must be abided in India for premium rating under Fire Policy with adequate Reinsurance Support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rating charge characteristic is crucial for the heat energy storage, particularly for lowtemperature system which uses paraffin wax. The influence of different rating charge causes severe temperature fluctuation, which is undesirable for the heat system. It is affected by unstable phase transformation, reducing the heat distribution and makes the average rating charge insufficient. In this work, the fluctuation can be minimized by adding polyethylene plastic as phase stabilizer for the wax. The polyethylene is added by ratio of weight of 15% from the total mass of 134 grams. Each material is mixed in the liquid state, stirred and molded into the apparatus. The phase transition evaluation is performed, showing the mixture indicates an additional transition peak after the principal phase transformation, ranging between 15.26 °C - 19.34 °C (melting) and 11.98 °C - 9.45 °C (freezing). The steady operation makes the lowest rating variation is only 0.3 °C/min, which is obtained by the mixture of wax and polyethylene. In the same rating charge, the wax has rating variation of 2.9 °C/min, signifying the effect of unsteady melting transition. It clearly demonstrates the addition of polyethylene for the mixture promotes a better phase transformation under various rating charge, maintaining the effective temperature distribution for the heat storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immobilisation of bacteria on biochar has shown potential for enhanced remediation of petroleum hydrocarbon-contaminated soil. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the effect of bacterial immobilisation on biosolids-derived biochar for the remediation of diesel-contaminated soil. This current study aimed to assess the impact of the immobilisation of an autochthonous hydrocarbonoclastic bacteria, Ochrobacterium sp. (BIB) on biosolids-derived biochar for the remediation of diesel-contaminated soil. Additionally, the effect of fertiliser application on the efficacy of the BIB treatment was investigated. Biochar (BC) application alone led to significantly higher hydrocarbon removal than the control treatment at all sampling times (4887–11,589 mg/kg higher). When Ochrobacterium sp. was immobilised on biochar (BIB), the hydrocarbon removal was greater than BC by 5533 mg/kg and 1607 mg/kg at weeks 10 and 22, respectively. However, when BIB was co-applied with fertiliser (BIBF), hydrocarbon removal was lower than BIB alone by 6987–11,767 mg/kg. Quantitative PCR (q-PCR) analysis revealed that the gene related to Ochrobacterium sp. was higher in BIB than in the BC treatment, which likely contributed to higher hydrocarbon removal in the BIB treatment. The results of the q-PCR analysis for the presence of alkB genes and FTIR analysis suggest that the degradation of alkane contributed to hydrocarbon removal. The findings of this study demonstrate that bacterial immobilisation on biosolids-derived biochar is a promising technique for the remediation of diesel-contaminated soil. Future studies should focus on optimising the immobilisation process for enhanced hydrocarbon removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil hydrocarbons can affect the physical, chemical and biological characteristics. Soil samples were prepared from the oil-rich area of Kermanshah province, which have been under oil pollution for a long time. 120 soil samples were collected from a depth of 0-15 cm with three pollution levels of low (L), moderate (M) and high (H) and the physicochemical characteristics were measured. Then bacteria were counted in NA and CFMM media and a positive and significant correlation was observed between bacterial population and oil concentration. The mean of oil measured by Soxhlet method was 4.03%, 9.95% and 22.50% for L, M and H levels, respectively. With the increase of oil in soil samples, ACP and ALP increased. In all samples, ACP was lower than ALP. The highest ACP and ALP were obtained 45.78 and 84.90 (gPNP.g-1.h-1µ) respectively in soil with high pollution level. Regression analysis showed that the oil percentage, sand percentage and EC with an regression coefficient of 0.71 were effective variables on the ACP, and the oil and sand percentage were also effective variables on the activity of ALP with an regression coefficient of 0.43. PCA analysis was also performed and the results showed that the first two components explained 68% of the variance between the samples. Based on the results, it was observed that natural and long-term oil pollution, with the passage of time led to the adaptation of microbial communities resistant to pollution and the number of these microorganisms and the activity of phosphatase enzyme increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Black Sea, situated between Türkiye, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, and Russia, is tectonically separated into two different sub-basins: Eastern and Western Black Sea. These two sub-basins have been a target of interest for oil and gas exploration for several decades. Although the participation of the Black Sea Basin in the global oil market is very small compared to the Caspian Sea, this basin is considered a potential hydrocarbon deposit since both areas have similar characteristics in terms of source rock. In this study, satellite-derived Bouguer and free-air gravity data were interpreted to disclose the prospective hydrocarbon reservoirs and gas hydrate deposits within the Western Black Sea Basin. The locations of the maxima identified in the I2 invariants map were assessed as five substantial hydrocarbon prospective zones three of which are in the Turkish Exclusive Economic Zone. Numerous oil and gas seeps are evidence of lateral and vertical hydrocarbon migration from the source rock through major faults in the WBSB where the maximum I2 anomalies are observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work studies the composting effects on the chemical characteristics of bio‐oil produced by pyrolysis of sisal residue. Three systems were composted with sisal residue proportions to sisal fiber powder of 100:0, 90:10, and 75:25, respectively. The systems showed reductions of 33%–48% (extractive), 70%–80% (hemicellulose), and 80%–90% (cellulose) after composting. An increase in lignin content was observed in all systems. The pyrolysis of the composted systems was performed at 450°C and 550°C. At both temperatures, this process was selective in producing a large concentration of hydrocarbons (>160% increase), mainly alkanes and alkenes, reducing the concentrations of ketones, aldehydes, and phenolics (>50%) and eliminating esters, furans, and acetic acid to composted biomasses. The higher temperature favored aromatics and cyclic hydrocarbon production from the pyrolysis of composted samples. In addition to these results, composting helped reduce the oxygenated bio‐oil species by approximately 44%–75% at the lowest and ~69% at the highest temperatures. These results indicate that composted sisal residue can produce bio‐oils that are more suitable for biorefineries since they are rich in aliphatic hydrocarbons and non‐oxygenated species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Petroleum hydrocarbon pollutants will enter the soil with the extraction, processing and transportation of crude oil, and under the action of gravity and rainfall leaching, they will migrate and spread in the soil causing pollution. The change rule of this process has not been systematically studied. In this study, the vertical migration of crude oil in uncontaminated soil around typical oilfields was simulated through soil column leaching experiments with different leaching amount, soil types, oil concentrations and properties. Soil columns were sampled in stratified sections, and the concentration and component dynamics of crude oil in soil at different depths were analyzed using ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The purpose of this research was to investigate the vertical migration and variation of crude oil in uncontaminated soil under natural leaching. Results showed that the crude oil contaminants were mainly concentrated in soils above 15 cm, and the oil content showed a negative exponential change with the depth. The migration amount of crude oil was positively correlated with the initial oil concentration, but the migration rate was negatively correlated with the same. With the increase in the leaching time and depth, the light and medium components in crude oil gradually decreased, while the heavy components gradually increased. The migration of aromatic hydrocarbons in soil was stronger than that of other components. This study aimed to provide a more comprehensive perspective for evaluating the environmental behavior of crude oil in soil and has reference value for the remediation of crude oil-contaminated soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooling technology is one of the key technologies of the engine to meet the Euro 7 emission standard. Nevertheless, the hydrocarbon (HC) condensation in the cooler leads to uncontrolled thermal-hydraulic performance, and the onset temperature of HC condensation is still debated, which is one of the obstacles to implementing the Euro 7 standard. Here, we first established a database of key parameters (carbon number, concentration, and pressure); then theoretically calculated the onset temperatures of various condensation types (wall condensation, heterogeneous nucleation, and homogeneous nucleation), plotted the entire map and verified its veracity; and finally, elucidated the contribution of each parameter through sensitivity analysis. The results show that (i) HC species are C12 to C25, from 25 to 1717 ppm concentrations, and pressures are from 1 to 4 bar. (ii) The map diagrams for the onset temperature of HC condensation have broad applicability and strong practicality. (iii) The temperature ranges of the onset of wall condensation, heterogeneous nucleation, and homogeneous nucleation are from 4 to 218 °C, from 1 to 209 °C, and from −6 to 195 °C, respectively. (iv) Carbon number has the most significant contribution, followed by HC concentration and pressure. The results can provide a valuable reference for more accurate EGR cooler design and management.

Titanium undergoes biological aging, represented by increased hydrophobicity and surface accumulation of organic molecules over time, which compromises the osseointegration of dental and orthopedic implants. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of a novel UV light source, 172 nm wavelength vacuum UV (VUV), in decomposing organic molecules around titanium. Methylene blue solution used as a model organic molecule placed in a quartz ampoule with and without titanium specimens was treated with four different UV light sources: (i) ultraviolet C (UVC), (ii) high-energy UVC (HUVC), (iii) proprietary UV (PUV), and (iv) VUV. After one minute of treatment, VUV decomposed over 90% of methylene blue, while there was 3-, 3-, and 8-fold more methylene blue after the HUVC, PUV, and UVC treatments, respectively. In dose-dependency experiments, maximal methylene blue decomposition occurred after one minute of VUV treatment and after 20-30 min of UVC treatment. Rapid and effective VUV-mediated organic decomposition was not influenced by the surface topography of titanium or its alloy and even occurred in the absence of titanium, indicating only a minimal photocatalytic contribution of titanium dioxide to organic decomposition. VUV-mediated but not other light source-mediated methylene blue decomposition was proportional to its concentration. Plastic tubes significantly reduced methylene blue decomposition for all light sources. These results suggest that VUV, in synergy with quartz ampoules, mediates rapid and effective organic decomposition compared with other UV sources. This proof-of-concept study paves the way for rapid and effective VUV-powered photofunctionalization of titanium to overcome biological aging.

Ultraviolet (UV) photofunctionalization counteracts the biological aging of titanium to increase the bioactivity and osseointegration of titanium implants. However, UV photofunctionalization currently requires long treatment times of between 12 min and 48 h, precluding routine clinical use. Here, we tested the ability of a novel, xenon excimer lamp emitting 172 nm vacuum UV (VUV) to decompose organic molecules coated on titanium as a surrogate of photofunctionalization. Methylene blue as a model organic molecule was coated on grade 4 commercially pure titanium and treated with four UV light sources: (i) ultraviolet C (UVC), (ii) high-energy UVC (HUVC), (iii) proprietary UV (PUV), and (iv) VUV. After one minute of treatment, VUV decomposed 57% of methylene blue compared with 2%, 36%, and 42% for UVC, HUVC, and PUV, respectively. UV dose-dependency testing revealed maximal methylene blue decomposition with VUV within one minute. Equivalent decomposition was observed on grade 5 titanium alloy specimens, and placing titanium specimens in quartz ampoules did not compromise efficacy. Methylene blue was decomposed even on polymethyl methacrylate acrylic specimens at 20-25% lower efficiency than on titanium specimens, indicating a relatively small contribution of titanium dioxide-mediated photocatalytic decomposition to the total decomposition. Load-testing revealed that VUV maintained high efficacy of methylene blue decomposition regardless of the coating density, whereas other UV light sources showed low efficacy with thin coatings and plateauing efficacy with thicker coatings. This study provides foundational data on rapid and efficient VUV-mediated organic decomposition on titanium. In synergy with quartz ampoules used as containers, VUV has the potential to overcome current technical challenges hampering the clinical application of UV photofunctionalization.

The discrepancy between the use of vehicle fuel types and the vehicle's technical specifications is expected to affect exhaust emissions. This study aims to examine the effect of using four types of fuel with different octane number specifications on two four-wheeled motor vehicles with an EFI fuel delivery system on exhaust gas emission parameters of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC), carbon dioxide (CO2) and non-emitting gases Oxygen (O2). With a quantitative experimental approach method using the Automotive Emission Analyzer and simple linear regression analysis, the results showed that the use of variations with octane numbers RON 98, RON 92, RON 90, and RON 88 fuels at the same time as variations in engine speed (1000 – 3000) RPM showed an effect on concentration. HC and CO emissions decreased with each increase in the octane number of fuel, RON 92 fuel with the lowest average CO / HC (0.0013% / 0.46 ppm) and RON 98 with the lowest average CO / HC (0.0026% / 0 ppm). The use of RON 92 fuel is more effective and inexpensive to apply to vehicles with an EFI fuel delivery system (with compression of 1:10/10.2) compared to RON 98 fuel which emits higher CO and HC emissions at low engine speed (1000 -1500) RPM.

This study delves into the impact of electric turbochargers on fuel efficiency and emissions in ethanol-gasoline blends. Informed by relevant literature, the research zeroes in on the positive influence of electric turbochargers, emphasizing their role in reducing fuel consumption and emissions while also addressing the trade-off between flame characteristics and NOx emissions. The experimental focus is on the injection modification of a single cylinder, with samples including engines equipped with and without an electric turbocharger. Statistical analysis utilizing percentage-based methods reveals that this technology leads to a substantial 94% reduction in CO emissions at idle speed, a 49% decrease in HC emissions at idle speed, and a 10% increase in CO2 at idle speed. Additionally, it also results in a notable 16.04% reduction in fuel consumption at 40 km/h. These outcomes underscore the potential of electric turbochargers to enhance automotive efficiency and sustainability while acknowledging the trade-off that necessitates further exploration for optimal emission control. The research provides concrete insights for refining electric turbocharger technology and optimizing its practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gas condensate is one of the most valuable products of gas refineries. In unit 700 of the Sarkhon gas refinery, first, the gas condensate is separated from the feed. Then, the vapor pressure of the gas condensate is stabilized by de-ethanizer and de-butanizer towers. The H-701 and H-702 furnaces act as reboilers of the towers. In this research, unit 700 is simulated by HYSYS software. The product of this unit is examined to achieve desirable conditions. In addition, the best conditions are obtained to reduce the gas loss in this unit. The desirable conditions are introduced according to the operational problems of this unit. In this study, the environmental and economic loss due to the loss of hydrocarbons from the de-butanizer tower is identified. Results of this research show that the best operating temperature and pressure of the first feed are 40 °C and 29 bar, respectively. Also, the best temperature and pressure of the second feed are 20 °C and 28 bar, respectively. Also, the best temperature and pressure of the output stream from the S-701 as a feed of the T-701 are 34.35 °C and 22.51 bar, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The valorization of the underutilized agricultural residues through microwave catalytic pyrolysis (MCP) has attracted much attention in recent years. This article focuses on the MCP technology of agricultural residues, the optimization of MCP conditions of coconut clothing by response surface method, and the application of pyrolysis products, so as to make the process more compatible, acceptable, and sustainable, as well as the future development direction to gain more economic benefits even in small-scale applications. According to the box Behnken experimental design, the MCP conditions of coconut cloths were analyzed and optimized by response surface method, and the optimal pyrolysis process conditions were as follows: nitrogen flow rate 89.79 ml/min, pyrolysis temperature 557.42 °C, pyrolysis time 19.91 min, and heating rate 18.75 °C/min. The results show that under the conditions predicted by the model theory, the relative content of hydrocarbons (aromatics) in the product of coconut microwave pyrolysis catalyzed by H-Beta catalyst with unique pore structure and an appropriate amount of acid sites is as high as 44.71%, while the relative content of hydrocarbons in non-catalytic pyrolysis is 0%. The increase of hydrocarbon content improves the quality of bio-oil, which has great significance for upgrading liquid products to biofuels and becoming important basic chemical raw materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas hydrates were found in bottom sediments on the western slope of the Kuril Basin from the side of the Terpeniya Gulf (Okhotsk Sea) at 1020 m depths during expeditions in 2012 and 2013. However, on the eastern slope of the Tatar Strait, gas hydrates were sampled at an unusually shallow 322 m depth. During our research, we identified gas hydrate provinces based on both bottom water and sediment temperature measurement data and heat flow, earthquake, cold seep and sea current data analyses. These provinces have similar hydrological regimes, providing suitable temperature conditions for the existence of gas hydrates, to those at a 322 m depth in the Tatar Strait (Japan Sea) and at 725 and 1020 m depths on the slope of the Kuril Basin (Okhotsk Sea). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring the interplay between natural seeps and nearby sediment and hydrocarbon properties is key to unlocking subsurface hydrocarbon potential. This study presents findings on the hydrocarbon composition and sediment characteristics of the Makukwa seep in southern Tanzania, providing insight into subterranean hydrocarbon accumulation. Sediment analysis across areas A and B, located approximately 20 m apart, showed a decrease in porosity with depth, indicative of typical sandstone formations. Area A, near the seeps, exhibited porosity ranging from 23% to 36%, whereas Area B, further away, showed porosity ranging from 22% to 38%. This suggests that a lower cretaceous sandstone layer may have overlain the hydrocarbon seep. XRD analysis confirmed quartz as the dominant mineral, with concentrations of 46.1% in area A and 50.1% in area B, underscoring the sediment's sandstone-like nature. Additionally, graphite was higher in area A (29.5%) than in area B, indicating a varying degree of hydrocarbon influence across the sampled locations. ICP-OES analysis revealed elevated trace metal concentrations, particularly iron, which varied from 27.47 ppm to 471.47 ppm in area A, significantly higher than in area B, indicating the geochemical influence of hydrocarbon seepage on sediment composition. GC-MS analysis showed a range of heavy aliphatic hydrocarbons (n-alkanes) from n-C14 to n-C38 within the sediments, indicating a dormant state. Notably, the concentrations in area A were higher, with specific hydrocarbons such as octadecane and eicosane measured at 0.330 µg/mL and 0.789 µg/mL, respectively, compared with the lower concentrations in area B (octadecane at 0.105 µg/mL and eicosane at 0.089 µg/mL). This highlights the impact of proximity to the seep on hydrocarbon distribution. This study offers crucial insights into hydrocarbon dynamics at the Makukwa seep, Tanzania, highlighting the relationship between sediment properties and hydrocarbon accumulation. These findings enhance our understanding of hydrocarbon seepage, guiding future exploration and environmental monitoring efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve such global problems as climate stabilization and reducing greenhouse gas luminescences requires an integrated approach, including a strategic analysis of the problem and the development of criteria for selecting proposed solutions, a natural scientific research on the possibilities and ways to implement the assigned tasks, as well as an economic justification for the feasibility of implementing the developed measures. The present publication is an attempt to apply this approach to the problem of hydrogen energy via proposing the production of hydrogen by pyrolysis of natural gas in laser plasma as one of the ways to its solution. Therewith, the main attention is focused on the chemical processes that occur in laser plasma, as well as on the nature of the transformations that occur in the solid pyrolysis product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipids are a geologically robust class of organics ubiquitous to life as we know it. Lipid-like soluble organics are synthesized abiotically and have been identified in carbonaceous meteorites and on Mars. Ascertaining the origin of lipids on Mars would be a profound astrobiological achievement. We enumerate origin-diagnostic features and patterns in two acyclic lipid classes, fatty acids (i.e., carboxylic acids) and acyclic hydrocarbons, by collecting and analyzing molecular data reported in over 1500 samples from previously published studies of terrestrial and meteoritic organics. We identify 27 combined (15 for fatty acids, 12 for acyclic hydrocarbons) molecular patterns and structural features that can aid in distinguishing biotic from abiotic synthesis. Principal component analysis (PCA) demonstrates that multivariate analyses of molecular features (16 for fatty acids, 14 for acyclic hydrocarbons) can potentially indicate sample origin. Terrestrial lipids are dominated by longer straight-chain molecules (C4-C34 fatty acids, C14-C46 acyclic hydrocarbons), with predominance for specific branched and unsaturated isomers. Lipid-like meteoritic soluble organics are shorter, with random configurations. Organic solvent-extraction techniques are most commonly reported, motivating the design of our novel instrument, the Extractor for Chemical Analysis of Lipid Biomarkers in Regolith (ExCALiBR), which extracts lipids while preserving origin-diagnostic features that can indicate biogenicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, the efficient synthesis of propylene from methanol was achieved using a series of HZSM-5 catalysts. The effect of the structure and morphology of ZSM-5 on the conversion of methanol to propylene was studied. The structure and physicochemical properties of the synthesized catalysts were analyzed by multiple characterization techniques. The characterization results revealed that the alumina content rationally modified the acid properties of ZSM-5. When using a ZSM-5 catalyst with a hexagonal single crystal and a Si/Al ratio of 177, the selectivity of propylene reached 39.7% at 480 °C. Furthermore, the formation of methane was reduced. This provides a clue for catalyst design to enable the selective transformation of methanol into propylene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is devoted to assessing the influence of various concentrations of hydrocarbon rocket fuels in the soil, expressed in the quantitative and qualitative composition of the main representatives of the soil biocenosis and enzyme activity. For this purpose, microbiological studies of the qualitative and quantitative composition of soil microflora were carried out in 11 soil samples treated with rocket hydrocarbon fuel grades T-1 and RG-1, with codes K1, T-1-1, T-1-2, T-1 -3, T-1-4, T-1-5, RG-1-1, RG-1-2, RG-1-3, RG-1-4, RG-1-5. The assessment of the microbiological activity of the soil was based on the indicators of the number of microorganisms expressed in colony-forming units (CFU) per 1 gram of soil. The determination of the number of microorganisms was carried out by a series of consecutive 10-fold dilutions in sterile 0.9% saline solution and seeding them into agarized nutrient media, followed by counting the grown colonies. To determine the total microbial number (TMN) growing on organic nitrogen, quantitative seeding was performed from soil dilutions in sterile 0.9% saline solution on a commercial standardized medium nutrient agar (M001) from Himedia (India). As a result of scientific research, in most experimental groups there was a decrease in the number of the main soil representatives of microorganisms, which may be a consequence of exposure to hydrocarbons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To effectively delineate the spatial distribution of oil contaminant plumes, geophysical methods indirectly measure the physical properties of the subsurface and can provide spatial information and images on a large scale, as opposed to traditional direct methods such as borehole drilling, sampling, and chemical analysis, which are time-consuming and costly. However, interpreting geophysical responses over non-aqueous phase liquid (NAPL)–contaminated sites is not straightforward due to inconsistent responses from biodegraded oil contaminants. In this study, we performed multi-geophysical surveys including seismic refraction, ground-penetrating radar, electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), and induced polarization (IP) surveys, to locate NAPL-contaminated zones in a clay-rich site. To reduce ambiguity in discriminating between oil contaminants and clay layers, we first figure out the geological structure of the site by interpreting geophysical data incorporating with borehole data. The ERT data highlighted the heavily contaminated regions in the unsaturated zone but were less distinctive below groundwater levels. Conversely, IP responses revealed potential hotspots within the clay layers, extending beneath the groundwater. Considering the 3D geological model, NAPL-contaminated zones are properly delineated through interpretation of ERT and IP data together with borehole data, and the contaminant source zone was properly estimated within the site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) take part in the biological processes of insects; however, these compounds have not been determined for genus Liometopum. The objective of this study was to identify the variability of the VOCs found in the Liometopum apiculatum habitat during the exploitation season. During the 2017 preseason and season, 35 air samples were collected from the nests of five L. apiculatum colonies established in crassicaule scrub vegetation; additionally, another 35 samples were taken from their foraging sites. Using a gas chromatograph with an electronic nose detector, the VOCs were identified with the Kovats index. In addition, a principal component analysis (PCA) was carried out to evaluate the intensity variability per season. Fourty-eight VOCs were identified in the L. apiculatum habitat. The most significant VOCs included: saturated hydrocarbon (17%), aldehydes (17%), alcohols (15%), and esters (10%). PCA accounted for 79.5% (PC1=53.8 and PC2=25.7) of the intensity variability of the VOCs in the habitat between seasons. The escamol season was characterized by the 3-methyl-3-sulfonyl butan-1-ol, 2-Methylbutanoic acid, and trimethylamine. This profile of the VOCs in the L. apiculatum habitat is a pioneer work and has future implications for the conservation and sustainable exploitation of the escamolera ant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]