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Asphaltenes represent a novel class of carbon nanofillers that are of potential interest for many applications, including polymer nanocomposites, solar cells, and domestic heat storage devices. In this work, we developed a realistic coarse-grained Martini model that was refined against the thermodynamic data extracted from atomistic simulations. This allowed us to explore the aggregation behavior of thousands of asphaltene molecules in liquid paraffin on a microsecond time scale. Our computational findings show that native asphaltenes with aliphatic side groups form small clusters that are uniformly distributed in paraffin. The chemical modification of asphaltenes via cutting off their aliphatic periphery changes their aggregation behavior: modified asphaltenes form extended stacks whose size increases with asphaltene concentration. At a certain large concentration (44 mol. %), the stacks of modified asphaltenes partly overlap, leading to the formation of large, disordered super-aggregates. Importantly, the size of such super-aggregates increases with the simulation box due to phase separation in the paraffin–asphaltene system. The mobility of native asphaltenes is systematically lower than that of their modified counterparts since the aliphatic side groups mix with paraffin chains, slowing down the diffusion of native asphaltenes. We also show that diffusion coefficients of asphaltenes are not very sensitive to the system size: enlarging the simulation box results in some increase in diffusion coefficients, with the effect being less pronounced at high asphaltene concentrations. Overall, our findings provide valuable insight into the aggregation behavior of asphaltenes on spatial and time scales that are normally beyond the scales accessible for atomistic simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the synthesis complexity and environmental hazards for the preparation of paraffin sealants by conventional methods, an alternative strategy for paraffin microspheres preparation was still required. Herein, a simplified and economic method based on CO2/N2 switchable paraffin emulsion that was stabilized by surfactant tween-80/span-80 system, was proposed for paraffin microspheres preparation. Paraffin microspheres were obtained upon CO2-induced stability changes of emulsion. The prepared paraffin microsphere has a small mean diameter of 8814.5 nm which meets the demand for the particle size of practical production. With the paraffin microsphere dosage of 0.5%, the mud cake permeability decreased to 50.4%, which indicates the good plugging performance of microspheres. When repeatedly preparing the separated aqueous phase and the recovered emulsion containing dissolved emulsion, it was found that the mean diameter of paraffin microspheres changed slight, which indicates the recyclability of switchable solvent. Paraffin microspheres, as plugging additive, pose remarkable effects on other properties of drilling fluid. It was found that the density decreased from 1.05 g/cm3 to 0.89 g/cm3, AV from 4.0 to 10.50, PV from 1.0 to 7.50, YP from 1.0 to 3.0, and FLAPI decrease continually with the paraffin microspheres dosage increases to 2.5%. The recovery rate of shale is above 80% with the introduction of paraffin microspheres, which indicates that paraffin microspheres emulsion has good compatibility with drilling fluid matrix in a certain range. Herein, a paraffin microspheres preparation method based on CO2/N2 switchable emulsion is also proposed which has wide application in the preparation of paraffin microspheres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Immune profiling has become an important tool for identifying predictive, prognostic and response biomarkers for immune checkpoint inhibitors from tumor microenvironment (TME). We aimed to build a multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) panel to apply to formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues in mice tumors and to explore the programmed cell death protein 1/ programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) axis. Results: An automated eight-color mIF panel was evaluated to study the TME using seven antibodies, including cytokeratin 19, CD3e, CD8a, CD4, PD-1, PD-L1, F4-80 and DAPI, then was applied in six mice lung adenocarcinoma samples. Cell phenotypes were quantified by software to explore the co-localization and spatial distribution between immune cells within the TME. This mice panel was successfully optimized and applied to a small cohort of mice lung adenocarcinoma cases. Image analysis showed a sparse degree of immune cell expression pattern in this cohort. From the spatial analysis we found that T cells and macrophages expressing PD-L1 were close to the malignant cells and other immune cells. Conclusions: Comprehensive immune profiling using mIF in translational studies improves our ability to correlate the PD-1/PD-L1 axis and spatial distribution of lymphocytes and macrophages in mouse lung cancer cells to provide new cues for immunotherapy, that can be translated to human tumors for cancer intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phase change material (PCM) is an ideal heat storage material with huge latent heat and nearly constant phase change temperature, but there are serious problems in application such as leakage and low thermal conductivity. Porous ceramic is widely used in PCM packaging because of its advantages of controllable porosity and high thermal conductivity. Porous Al 2 O 3 ceramics were prepared by foaming injection coagulation method. In order to improve the thermal conductivity of porous ceramic matrix, Porous Al 2 O 3 @Graphite Ceramics (PAGC) were prepared by sucrose decomposition. Form-Stable Phase Change Materials (FSPCMs) were prepared by adsorption of Lauric Acid/Myristic Acid (LA/MA) in PAGC by vacuum impregnation method. SEM showed that the prepared PAGC had a three-dimensional interpenetrating structure and high porosity. TEM and XPS showed that alumina skeleton were uniformly coated with graphite. After PAGC impregnated by LA/MA, the maximum PCM storage reached 62.11 wt %. The maximum latent heat of FSPCMs reaches 83.33 J/g. Thermogravimetric analysis, thermal cycling test and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy show that the prepared FSPCMs has good thermal stability, thermal reliability, chemical stability and compressive strength. More importantly, the thermal conductivity of the prepared FSPCMs is greatly improved, reaching up to 3.73 W/mK. It is 20.72 times the original PCM, mainly due to the synergistic effect of the Al 2 O 3 skeleton and the graphite coating to build a continuous highway for heat transfer. This study provides a practical means to greatly improve the thermal conductivity of FSPCMs, which will promote the practical application of FSPCMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leakage is a high-incidence disease of embankment dams, and efficiently addressing this disease guarantees the safe operation of dams. Underwater leakage self-priming plugging technology is a new technology that utilizes the melting and solidifying characteristics of phase-change materials and the negative pressure in the leakage entry area to accurately plug the leakage. However, little is yet known about the underwater melting process of phase-change materials and how their characteristics influence the plugging effect. In this study, three kinds of phase-change materials, namely, paraffin, rosin, and stearic acid, were used to conduct underwater leakage self-priming plugging tests, observe and analyze the underwater melting process, and compare the plugging effects. The results showed that the underwater melting process of phase-change materials exhibited different plugging window periods depending on their melting points, specific heat capacities, and mobilities, which were the main factors affecting their plugging effects. In the final plugging stage, paraffin had the best plugging effect, but the material strength was low; rosin had good plugging compactness, but the fluidity performance was poor, and the material effective utilization was low; stearic acid had a low melting point but dispersed easily. Therefore, a blocking material with a suitable blocking window period can be produced by adjusting the material properties accordingly for an improved blocking effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this experimental study, we explore the potential enhancements in thermal conductivity while investigating alterations in latent heat and phase change temperature within Composite Phase Change Materials (PCMs). These composites consist of Paraffin Wax (PW) as the base material, incorporating dispersed conducting Polyaniline (PANI) powder in varying concentrations ranging from 1% wt. to 4% wt. The mass fractions of PANI added to PW include 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%, and the composite PCMs are meticulously prepared through ultrasonication. Examining the surface morphology of Composite Phase Change Materials (PCMs) involved utilizing a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), while the determination of thermal conductivity employed a Heat Flow Meter. Additionally, latent heat and phase change temperatures were assessed through Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The obtained results indicate an augmentation in the thermal conductivity of the composites when compared to Paraffin Wax (PW). Specifically, thermal conductivity exhibited a 40% increase for 1% wt. of PANI, yet experienced a subsequent decline for the remaining weight percentages. Furthermore, the latent heat and phase change temperatures of the composites were observed to decrease in comparison to PW. These composite PCMs with enhanced thermal conductivity, achieved through the incorporation of Polyaniline in Paraffin Wax, are highly potential for several applications in energy storage systems, thermal regulation devices, and heat management technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The objectives of the present study were to describe specific anatomical structures of the dromedary udder. In this study, udders from 86 dromedaries were examined by taking morphological measurements and producing injection casts using resin, gelatin, and paraffin. We examined the different udder, teat, and teat tip shape. The results of this study increase the knowledge of the anatomical structures of the dromedary udder, which may be useful for breeding a selection of dairy dromedaries. The objectives of the present study were to describe specific anatomical structures of the dromedary udder. Eighty-six dromedary udders were examined, taking morphological measurements and producing injection casts using resin, gelatin, and paraffin. The udder of the dromedaries consists of four quarters. The shape of the udders and teats varies considerably between animals and is influenced by age, breeding, and lactation status. The most frequently found udder form was the globular udder (48.8%) and the most common teat form in this study was the funnel teat (44.2%). The most common teat tip shape was a smooth or a slightly rough ring teat (61.6%). Injection casts showed a complete separation of the teat canals. There is also no communication between tributary mammary complexes. Resin injections of the glandular tissue adjacent to the teat cistern showed an extensive branching into large, medium, and small milk ducts. Frozen sections of the udder revealed complete separation of the right and left mammary complex through the Sulcus intermammarius. The teat sections showed longitudinal folds from the tip of the teat to the base of the teat. A ring fold at the transition from the Ductus papillaris to the teat cistern was present. The results of this study increase the knowledge of the anatomical structures of the dromedary udder, which may be useful for breeding a selection of dairy dromedaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural gas pipelines are exposed to complex production and transportation environments, leading to blockages of varying compositions and forms due to various factors. This paper proposes a pressure pulsing wave‐based pipe blockage detection method, and a series of pipeline blockage detection experiments of different materials are carried out, including hydrate blockage, ice blockage, paraffin blockage, and water blockage. Through the blockage detection calculation theory and the reflection and transmission characteristics during pressure wave emission, the blockage position, length, and section blockage rate under different blockage materials are obtained, and the influence of different blockage materials on the reflection and transmission signal characteristics of the pressure pulse wave is analyzed. The results show that the solid blocking material does not noticeably impact the reflectivity and reflective properties of pressure waves, and different cross‐sectional shapes have a noticeable impact on the reflectivity of the pressure wave. The reflected wave waveform of the liquid blockage material is visible but irregular. The average error of blockage location is 0.78%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal energy storage technology has evolved as one of the prominent methods of storing thermal energy when it is available and utilized as per the requirements. In recent years, thermal energy storage has found a variety of applications for thermal management, such as buildings, batteries, electronics, cold storage, textiles, and solar thermal systems. Phase Change Material (PCM) has taken the lead among all other thermal energy storage materials because of various merits such as high energy density, ease of use, low cost, low volume change, environmental friendliness, easy availability, and chemical stability. However, limitations such as poor thermal conductivity and leakage during phase transformation limit their applicability. In this study, Shape Stabilized Composite PCM (SSCPCM) was developed to overcome these drawbacks. Paraffin wax and soya wax were used as PCMs and multi-walled carbon nanotubes and graphene oxide were used as nano-additives. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is used as a supporting matrix. Leakage test suggest maximum loading of 40 wt% and 35 wt% of paraffin wax and soya wax in HDPE without any leakage at elevated temperature. The prepared SSCPCM shows substantially better thermal energy storage capacity along with improved thermal conductivity. A maximum rise of 260.8% in thermal conductivity was observed in paraffin wax supported by HDPE and loaded with 3 wt% of multi-walled carbon nanotube nanoparticles. The heating and cooling performance suggests an improvement in the heating and cooling rate by adding nano-additives. The prepared SSCPCM are also thermally stable at elevated temperatures up to 150 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous Si 3 N 4 ceramics with an interconnected pore structure were prepared by a paraffin emulsified suspension method. The effects of the volume ratio of paraffin to silicon and Y 2 O 3 addition on the structure and properties of porous Si 3 N 4 were studied. Uniform dispersed pores introduced by the emulsified paraffine droplets can be observed in the green samples. With the increase of the volume ratio of paraffin to silicon, the bulk density and the strength of the sample were decreased, and the apparent porosity and Darcy permeability were increased. The formation of α-Si 3 N 4 whiskers could be promoted by the addition of the Y 2 O 3 during the nitriding process, and numerous nano whiskers could be obtained in the pores left by the paraffine droplets with suitable addition of the Y 2 O 3. The porous Si 3 N 4 with interconnected whiskers prepared via the paraffin emulsion method exhibited potential application for hot gas particular matter filtration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodegradation has become the most preferred and sustainable mean of reducing paraffin wax, removing paraffin deposition in pipelines and improving the flow of petroleum products. The current study focuses on the isolation of bacteria that has the capability to utilize paraffin as a sole carbon source and has been screened using 2,6-dichlorophenol indophenol (DCPIP) dye as redox indicator. The bacterium was identified as Bacillus sp. SASH according to its 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. It is a moderate halophile that can grow in seawater at pH 7 and 37 °C. Bacillus sp. SASH was able to degrade various paraffinic products such as paraffin wax, heavy wax distillates, and liquid paraffin and it showed up to 84% paraffin wax degradation. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis revealed that higher carbon chains after retention time of 18 min were removed after treatment of the wax with the bacterium. Bacillus sp. SASH enhanced the flow of different petroleum products by reducing their viscosity and pour point values. It was also able to reduce the viscosity and improve the flow of crude oil by 60%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical paraffin removal agent QLJ-1 was developed by analyzing the composition of crude oil, the wax content and the point of paraffin removal in the wellbore of an oilfield in northwest China. The orthogonal test was used to determine the formula as follows: mixed organic solvent (70% aromatics, alkane volume ratio of 2:2:1) + mixed surfactant (7% Tween-80, AEO-9, fatty acid salt mass ratio of 1:2:1) +23% pure water. The results of kinetics and emulsion stability study show that the saturated wax dissolution amount of QLJ-1 is 1.62 g, the wax dissolution rate is 0.0263 g/min, the wax dissolution equilibrium time is about 1h, and the emulsion stability time is 6 d. The wax dissolving effect of QLJ-1 is better than that of the current paraffin remover. The research results of this paper can provide technical support for improving the chemical paraffin removal process in an oilfield in Northwest China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A common complication of bicanalicular intubation is dislocation of the silicone tube. Methods: Eleven patients with prolapsed silicone tubes who had undergone bicanalicular nasal intubation were injected with a 2 per cent lidocaine solution to infiltrate the lacrimal duct mucosa. A memory wire probe was used to pull a 4-0 suture through the lacrimal passage retrogradely, allowing the suture to grab the silicone tube. Paraffin oil was applied to the contact part of the rope and the silicone tube, then the distal end of the silk thread was removed from the nostril until the tube was pulled into place. Results: The prolapsed silicone tubes were restored by surgery in nine patients, with the drainage tube in the correct position in the eye and the lacrimal duct irrigation unobstructed. Conclusion: The optimisations made in this study are considered effective adjustments of reduction surgery for a prolapsed silicone tube. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of the Internet of Things has increased the anticipation for wearable smart devices in personalized healthcare. Carbon aerogel films, characterized by multifunctional and lightweight porous properties, are emerging as promising components for lightweight smart devices. In this study, we adopt a straightforward, cost-effective approach to fabricate carbon aerogels using cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and graphene (GO) co-stabilized Pickering emulsion, followed by vacuum filtration, freeze-drying, and carbonization treatment. The carbonization process involves the pyrolysis of paraffin wax and the reduction of graphene oxide, resulting in a uniquely porous structure, low density, and remarkable properties related to Joule heating, photothermal conversion, and conductivity sensitivity across a wide range of stresses. Incorporating CRP-30 into a piezoresistive sensor enables real-time monitoring of subtle human activities such as carotid pulse beats, swallowing, and facial expressions. This multifunctional carbon aerogel film holds great promise in the domains of wearable personal thermal management and personal health monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of a solution including honey, ethyl alcohol, liquid paraffin, distilled water and citric acid (HEFS) as a preservative for rabbit cadavers, serving as a potential substitute for formaldehyde. The cadavers underwent preservation using three distinct solutions: 10% formalin, 35% alcohol and HEFS. The cadavers were subjected to a total of four sampling events, occurring at 4‐month intervals, in order to collect specimens for microanatomical, histological, microbiological, mycological, colourimetric, texture and odour analysis. In terms of hardness, suitability for dissection and joint mobility metrics, the cadavers fixed with HEFS had superior qualities to those fixed with formalin. The fixation quality of HEFS for histological analyses was deemed acceptable, except kidney and intestinal tissues. In texture analysis, differences only in the elasticity parameter (p < 0.05) in the same sampling period. A total of 10 (13.9) bacteria isolates were identified among which, Metasolibacillus meyeri 3 (30%) was predominantly followed by Staphylococcus aureus 2 (20%), Bacillus siamensis, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudarthrobacter oxydans, Bacillus licheniformis, Bacillus subtilis subsp. subtilis with a proportion of 1 (10%), respectively, by both microbiological and molecular analysis. However, no anaerobic bacteria and fungi were isolated. A considerable percentage of the students had the perception that HEFS was appropriate for utilization in laboratory settings due to its absence of unpleasant odours and detrimental impact on ocular and respiratory functions. In conclusion, we consider that HEFS may serve as a viable substitute for formalin solution in the preservation of rabbit cadavers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocomposites, produced through mechanical blending, serve to enhance thermal performance of heat exchangers, solar collectors, and photovoltaic-thermal systems. This work employs an experimental methodology to assess the thermal charging (TC) and thermal discharging (TDC) of a composite generated by mixing graphene oxide (GO) and paraffin wax. TC and TDC of the GO-reinforced paraffin wax-based phase change material (PCM) have been examined across different flow rates (0.375, 0.75, and 1.5 L/min) and concentrations of GO (ranging from 0.25 to 1.00 vol%). The results exhibit a direct correlation between TC, TDC and efficiency, and reaction parameters (flow rate and volume concentration of GO). The experimental and predicted values of TCs, TDCs, and efficiencies fell ±15% (for TC and TDC), and ±9% for thermal efficiency, demonstrating a satisfactory level of agreement. This holds a practical application and valuable predictive tool for estimating TC, TDC, and thermal efficiency on known flow rates and concentrations of GO in wax-based PCMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multifunctional microencapsulated phase change material (PW@CaCO3/Y2O3) with both photoluminescence and thermal energy storage/release properties has been prepared by in situ polymerization. The material is based on the phase change material paraffin wax (PW) as its core, and the highly thermally conductive inorganic material CaCO3 is selected as the shell material to which a nano-Y2O3 material is attached. Five samples with different amounts of nano-Y2O3 incorporated in the shell are prepared. The microscopic morphology, chemical composition, crystal structure, thermal energy storage properties, thermal conductivity, thermal stability, as well as fluorescence spectra and intensities of the samples are experimentally measured and compared. The luminescence properties of nano-Y2O3 and the light enhancement phenomenon of microencapsulated phase change materials are also analyzed. The thermal properties are investigated, and it is found that the PC-Y3 sample (i.e., the mass ratio of PW:CaCO3:nano-Y2O3 is 100:100:3.0) exhibits the best thermal performance among the five samples with a melting enthalpy of (87.5 ± 2.5) J/g, an encapsulation efficiency of (61.9 ± 1.2)%, a thermal energy storage efficiency of (62.1 ± 1.5)%, an average specific heat capacity of (1.38 ± 0.21) kJ/(kg K) in solid phase (10–20 °C) and (1.46 ± 0.02) kJ/(kg K) in liquid phase (70–80 °C), and a thermal conductivity of (1.55 ± 0.01) W/(m K) in solid phase that is six times that of the solid PW. A study of the optical properties revealed that the microcapsules emitted blue light at an excitation wavelength of 290.0 ± 2.2 nm. The fluorescence intensity appeared to be enhanced with the addition of nano-Y2O3. This microencapsulated phase change material has potential applications in areas where synchronization of fluorescence and thermal modulation is required; for example, some specific fluorescent sensors that are very sensitive to heat should operate at a fixed low temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryosectioning is known as a common and well-established histological method, due to its easy accessibility, speed, and cost efficiency. However, the creation of bone cryosections is especially difficult. In this study, a cryosectioning protocol for trabecular bone that offers a relatively cheap and undemanding alternative to paraffin or resin embedded sectioning was developed. Sections are stainable with common histological dying methods while maintaining sufficient quality to answer a variety of scientific questions. Furthermore, this study introduces an automated protocol for analysing such sections, enabling users to rapidly access a wide range of different stainings. Therefore, an automated 'QuPath' neural network-based image analysis protocol for histochemical analysis of trabecular bone samples was established, and compared to other automated approaches as well as manual analysis regarding scattering, quality, and reliability. This highly automated protocol can handle enormous amounts of image data with no significant differences in its results when compared with a manual method. Even though this method was applied specifically for bone tissue, it works for a wide variety of different tissues and scientific questions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar thermal fuels (STFs) have been particularly concerned as sustainable future energy due to their impressive ability to store solar energy in chemical bonds and controllably release thermal energy. However, currently studied STFs mainly focus on molecule‐based materials with high photochemical activity, toxicity, and compromised features, which greatly restricts their applications in practical scenarios of solar energy utilization. Herein, we present a novel erythritol‐based composite phase change material (PCM) as a new type of STFs with an outstanding capability to store solar energy as latent heat in its stable supercooling state and release thermal energy as needed. This composite PCM with stored thermal energy can be maintained stably at room temperature and subsequently release latent heat as high as 224.9 J/g during the crystallization process triggered by thermal stimuli. Remarkably, solar energy can be converted into latent heat stored in the composite PCM over months. Through mechanical stimulations, the released latent heat can increase the temperature of the composite up to 91 °C. This work presents a new concept of using spatiotemporal storage and release of latent heat in PCMs for solar energy utilization, making it a potential candidate as STFs for developing future clean energy techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar thermal fuels (STFs) have been particularly concerned as sustainable future energy due to their impressive ability to store solar energy in chemical bonds and controllably release thermal energy. However, currently studied STFs mainly focus on molecule‐based materials with high photochemical activity, toxicity, and compromised features, which greatly restricts their applications in practical scenarios of solar energy utilization. Herein, we present a novel erythritol‐based composite phase change material (PCM) as a new type of STFs with an outstanding capability to store solar energy as latent heat in its stable supercooling state and release thermal energy as needed. This composite PCM with stored thermal energy can be maintained stably at room temperature and subsequently release latent heat as high as 224.9 J/g during the crystallization process triggered by thermal stimuli. Remarkably, solar energy can be converted into latent heat stored in the composite PCM over months. Through mechanical stimulations, the released latent heat can increase the temperature of the composite up to 91 °C. This work presents a new concept of using spatiotemporal storage and release of latent heat in PCMs for solar energy utilization, making it a potential candidate as STFs for developing future clean energy techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers are widely employed as pour point depressants to enhance the flow properties of crude oil. However, EVA copolymers have limitations that necessitate their development. This work investigated the modification of EVA via gamma radiation-induced grafting of butyl acrylate (BuA) monomers and the evaluation of grafted EVA as a pour point depressant for crude oil. The successful grafting of poly(butyl acrylate) p(BuA) onto EVA was verified through grafting parameters, FTIR spectroscopy, and 1H NMR spectroscopy. Treating crude oil with 3000 ppm of (EVA)0kGy, (EVA)50kGy, and (1EVA:3BuA)50kGy yielded substantial reductions in pour point of 24, 21, and 21 °C, respectively. Also, rheological characterization demonstrated improving evidenced by a viscosity reduction of 76.20%, 67.70%, and 71.94% at 25 °C, and 83.16%, 74.98%, and 81.53% at 12 °C. At low dosages of 1000 ppm, the EVA-g-p(BuA) exhibited superior pour point reductions compared to unmodified EVA, highlighting the benefit of incorporating p(BuA) side chains. The grafted EVA copolymers with p(BuA) side chains showed excellent potential as crude oil flow improvers by promoting more effective adsorption and co-crystallization with paraffin wax molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study discusses an evacuated tube collector-type solar water heater (ETCSWH) using a phase change material (PCM) chamber with fins, nanofluid, and nano-enhanced phase change material (NEPCM). First, the charging phenomena in a horizontal triplex tube heat exchanger (TTHX) equipped with fins, natural convection, and an ETCSWH system without PCM is simulated to validate the solution. The impact of adding fins and nanoparticles with a volume fraction of 3% of Al2O3 and Cu to paraffin wax and water-based fluid, respectively, on the unit's efficiency has been examined. The proposed system for the PCM melting process, heat storage, fluid flow behavior in the system, and velocity distribution and temperature contour in the storage tank and three parts of the absorber tube have been evaluated using ANSYS FLUENT software in a three-dimensional and transient simulation. The results show that Case 8 has improved by 39.7% compared to Case 1 and Case 4 by 5.2% compared to Case 1 within 4 h of the melting process. Also, Case 8 with a 43% and 6.4% shorter melting time than Cases 1 and 5 has the best performance and the greatest heat transfer rate. The productivity of the ETCSWH system is considerably enhanced by the use of fins, NEPCM, and nanofluid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of phase transition studies in which the following substances and their mixtures were tested: 100% palm oil, 100% paraffin, 100% hydrogenated palm oil, 50% palm oil + 50% paraffin, 50% hydrogenated palm oil + 50% palm oil, 33% hydrogenated palm oil + 33% palm oil + 33% soft paraffin, 20% hydrogenated palm oil + 30% palm oil + 50% soft paraffin, 50% hydrogenated palm oil + 50% palm oil + copper, and 50% hydrogenated palm oil + 50% palm oil + iron. The measurements were carried out on a station for testing phase-change materials (PCMs) designed specifically for the analysis of phase changes. Viscosity values were also determined for the tested materials, and their potential impact on heat accumulation was assessed. The primary goal of the experiment was to determine some key thermodynamic parameters, including transition time, transition heat, specific heat, and dynamic viscosity at 58 °C. A one-way ANOVA test confirmed the statistical significance of minimum transition temperature, maximum transition temperature, and phase transition time, validating the reliability and utility of the results. The melting point, crucial for applications involving phase changes, was identified as an important factor. The careful selection of components allows for the customization of properties tailored to specific applications. A significant result is that the analyzed substances with higher specific heat values tend to have a higher average dynamic viscosity. The Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.82 indicated a strong positive association between the average dynamic viscosity and the heat of fusion of the substances examined. This suggests that changes in the heat of fusion significantly influence alterations in dynamic viscosity. Substances with higher specific heat values tend to exhibit higher average dynamic viscosity, emphasizing the direct impact of composition on viscosity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shear-induced droplet formation is important in many industrial applications, primarily focusing on droplet sizes and pinch-off frequency. We propose a one-dimensional mathematical model that describes the effect of shear forces on the droplet interface evolution. The aim of this paper is to simulate paraffin wax droplets in a co-flowing fluid using the proposed model to estimate the droplet volume rate for different flow velocities. Thus, the study focuses only on the dripping regime. This one-dimensional model has a single parameter that arises from the force balance on the interface. This parameter is related to the shear layer thickness and hence influenced by the change in quantities like velocity, viscosity, and surface tension. The correlation describing the dependence of the parameter on these quantities using non-dimensional numbers is presented. The model is then cross-validated with the previous computational and experimental data. We use PETSc, an open-source solver toolkit, to implement our model using a mixed finite element discretization. We present the simulation results for liquid paraffin wax under fast-moving airflow with a range of velocities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

* Context.--Unlike B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (ALL/LBL), there have been few therapeutic advances in T-cell ALL (T-ALL)/LBL, an aggressive ALL/LBL subtype. Objective.--To perform a focused tissue array study to elucidate tumor markers of therapeutic potential in T-ALL/LBL. Design.--Using immunohistochemistry, we evaluated expression of leukemic antigens of interest, specifically CCchemokine receptor 4 (CCR4), among others, on available remnant diagnostic material, including tumor tissue slides obtained from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded preserved tissues. Results.--Our analysis identified, for the first time, expression of CCR4 in T-ALL/LBL in 11 of 27 cases (40.7%) and confirmed common expression of BCL2, CD38, and CD47, as reported previously. We also identified the expression of CD123 in 4 of 26 cases (15.4%), whereas BCL6 and PDL1 were expressed in a small number of T-ALL/LBL cases. The potential novel target CCR4 was significantly more common in the Pre/Pro-T immunophenotypic subtype, 6 of 9 (66.7%, P = .01). No additional differences in clinical and epidemiologic variables were noted among positive or negative CCR4 cases. Conclusions.--These findings support preclinical and clinical testing of therapies targeting CCR4, CD47, BCL2, CD38, and CD123 in T-ALL/LBL, and may help guide the development of targeted clinical trials in T-ALL/LBL, a rare disease in urgent need of novel therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How to realize hydrophobic modification of the capillary wall of cement-based materials is still a challenge. The hydrophobic modifier in the emulsion type is more promising than the original form due to the good compatibility with cement paste for integral hydrophobic modification of cementitious materials. Their influence on cement hydration and fresh-state behavior is less concerned. In this study, low-cost and nanoscale paraffin oil emulsion (POE) was first prepared as a new hydrophobic modifier. POE was then mixed with cement pastes to investigate its influence on hydrophobicity, cement hydration, compressive strength, and fresh-state behavior. Furthermore, the absorption of POE with cement paste was studied by zeta potential measurement and organic carbon analysis to clarify the associated micromechanisms. The results indicated that the incorporated POE could improve the integral hydrophobicity of hardened cement paste and decrease the capillary water absorption as well. Meanwhile, due to the hydrogen-bond interaction between the ─ OH group of POE and the ─ OH group of cement or hydration products, POE adsorbs onto the surface of cement and results in a reduction of water demand for standard consistency of cement pastes. In addition, a decrease in cement hydration degree, prolonged setting time, and increase in workability can be observed. These findings can provide important guidelines for the development of hydrophobic cementitious materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Demonstration of glycogen in tissue holds considerable diagnostic relevance across various pathological conditions, particularly in certain tumors. The histochemical staining of glycogen using methods utilizing Schiff's reagents is subject to influences arising from the type of fixative, fixation temperature, and oxidizing agents employed. This study aimed to assess diverse fixatives, fixation temperatures, and oxidizing agents, each with variable treatment durations, in conjunction with Schiff's reagent for optimal glycogen demonstration. Paraffin blocks derived from a rabbit's liver served as the experimental substrate, encompassing 340 paraffin sections subjected to different procedures. For tissues fixed at 4 °C, good staining outcomes, as determined by the periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) stain, were observed with 10% neutral buffered formalin (NBF), 80% alcohol, and Bouin's solution. Tissues fixed at room temperature (RT) demonstrated good PAS staining results with both 10% NBF and 80% alcohol. Notably, other oxidizing agents exhibited poor outcomes across all fixatives and fixation temperature, with two exceptions, as satisfactory staining results were obtained when using 5% chromic acid. Consequently, Both 10% NBF and 80% emerge as preferred fixatives of choice for glycogen demonstration when coupled with PAS stain. It is noteworthy that Bouin's solution could also provide good outcomes when fixation occurred at 4 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PCMs are an ideal energy storage material, widely used in construction and have gradually become a hot spot for research. To address the shortcomings and deficiencies of single PCM, this paper combined myristic acid (MA), palmitic acid (PA) and paraffin slice (48#, PS) to prepare a ternary system of PCM by using a melt blending method. The study found that the lowest eutectic point is reached when MA : PA : PS=43.4 : 18.6 : 38, with phase change temperature and enthalpy of phase change of 39.28 °C and 135.83 J/g, respectively, showing better superiority. Moreover, FT‐IR and XRD also indicated that no new functional groups appeared in this ternary PCM, no new substances were produced, and all were simple physical bonding. TG showed that MA‐PA‐PS does not decompose below 127.95 °C and has good thermal stability. Finally, it was indicated that its thermal reliability is good after 500 thermal cycles of MA‐PA‐PS. Therefore, as a new type of energy‐saving material, this ternary PCM has good reliability and superiority, and has good application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifunctional phase change materials-based thermal energy storage technology is an important way to save energy by capturing huge amounts of thermal energy during solar irradiation and releasing it when needed. Herein, superhydrophobic thermal energy storage coating is realized by spraying mesoporous superhydrophobic C@SiO2-HDTMS nanotubes (NTs), industrial paraffin wax (IPW), and ethyl α-cyanoacrylate (ECA) onto the substrate material for durable and highly efficient photothermal energy conversion. In the coating, C@SiO2-HDTMS NTs can adsorb IPW (74.5 wt%) through mesopores resulting in high enthalpy (142.28 J g−1), thermal stability, and high photothermal conversion efficiency (87.2%). Moreover, the coating exhibits excellent superhydrophobicity, mechanical durability, ultraviolet resistance, and corrosion resistance under the combined effect of C@SiO2-HDTMS NTs and ECA. Therefore, the multifunctional coating with integrative properties holds great promise in a variety of harsh environments. The fluoride-free superhydrophobic thermal energy storage coating exhibits excellent superhydrophobicity, durability and photothermal conversion efficiency, which holds great promise in a variety of harsh environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epoxy composites with simultaneously enhanced tribological and mechanical properties filled with basalt belt/reduced graphene oxide/paraffin wax (EP/BF/RGO/PW) have been successfully prepared. Experimental results indicated that the mechanical property of the composites was reinforced by basalt belt, and the tribological property was greatly improved by reduced graphene oxide/paraffin wax at the same time. Thanks to the synergy of PW and RGO sheets, the optimized coefficient of friction and wear rate of the composite declined by 77.5% and 14.4% than pure EP under dry friction conditions of 60 N and 0.42 m s-1. In comparison to pure EP, the tensile strength and modulus of the optimized composite increased by 75.5% and 100% on account of the robust basalt fibers. Thus, the combination of basalt fiber and reduced graphene oxide/paraffin wax can readily realize the introduction of enhancer and oil-impregnation in EP, offering a promising approach for simultaneously improving the mechanical and tribological properties of epoxy. Highlights • A novel BF/RGO/PW 3D skeleton was developed via a facile hydrothermal method. • The BF/RGO/PW can enhance the mechanical and tribological properties of EP. • The basalt fibers account for the improvement in mechanical property. • A reduction of 77.5% in COF and a decrease of 14.4% in wear rate were realized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal energy storage is indeed a valuable solution for addressing the time lag or mismatch between energy supply and demand. The study aims to computationally model the melting and solidification processes of phase change material (PCM) using ANSYS Fluent that utilizes the finite volume technique. The simulations provide insights into the shapes of the liquid fraction, corresponding times, and temperature distribution of the PCM particles under the given conditions. The study considers factors such as solar radiation, thermal conductivity, density, latent heat, and the melting temperature of the PCM. The study finds that paraffin wax melts more quickly under a higher average maximum solar irradiance of 985 W/m2, while a lower solar radiation of 300 W/m2 has the opposite effect. Enhanced heat transfer resulting from conduction within the molten PCM, especially at a thermal conductivity of k = 0.25 W/m·K, accelerates the melting process. The thermal conductivity of the PCM affects the overall performance of the thermal energy storage system. The study highlights the potential application of thermal storage for drying purposes. Through the controlled release of stored heat energy, thermal storage enables the provision of heat in the absence of sunlight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the individual and cumulative effects of phase change material (PCM) and evacuated tube collector (ETC) on the performance of a stepped solar still (SSS). Experiments have been performed on SSS, SSS loaded with PCM (SSS‐PCM), SSS coupled with ETC (SSS‐ETC), and SSS loaded with PCM and coupled with ETC (SSS‐PCM‐ETC). An innovative way of loading paraffin wax as PCM is introduced to utilize solar energy efficiently for the distillation process during off‐sunshine hours. ETC is used to provide pre‐heated RO wastewater to the distillation unit. The distillate output was observed maximum for SSS‐PCM‐ETC (4.97 kg/m2 day) which is 99% more than that of the SSS unit. The PCM and ETC individually with SSS unit increases the distillate output by 31% and 24%, respectively. The working time of the distillation unit was observed to be increased by 3 h by the use of PCM. The total heat transfer coefficient was evaluated at the maximum for SSS‐PCM‐ETC and was observed in the range of 16.94–167.04 W/m2 °C. The thermal energy efficiencies of SSS, SSS‐ETC, SSS‐PCM, and SSS‐PCM‐ETC were evaluated as 28.65%, 35.59%, 43.88%, and 44.04%, respectively. SSS‐PCM‐ETC is found to be the most economic with the best environmental conservation having maximum values of daily productive cost ($0.69) and carbon credits earned ($184.8). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precipitation of deposited wax on pipe walls is one of the complex flow assurance problems that cause a decrease and complete blockage of oil production rates by reducing the cross‐sectional area of the flow in the pipelines. In addition, surface facilities require higher energy consumption and equipment failure due to paraffin plugs. The purpose of the research is to use the assessment of melting properties in the model of multisolid (MS) forecasting of paraffin in Kazakhstani oil. This article presents the calculation and modification of the fusion properties for a certain Kazakhstani oil for the subsequent calculation of the MS model for predicting wax deposition; numerous approaches have been developed to predict and prevent the flow assurance problems in both science and industry. Most of them are based on predicting the temperature of crystallization of paraffin considering the temperature dependence of the solubility parameters of individual components in the liquid and solid phases, as well as the molar volumes of individual components. Wax deposition can occur anywhere from a reservoir to surface facilities and pipelines. One of the main limitations of the existing models is their applicability to a wide range of crude oil types, while this modified paraffin predicting model will target Kazakhstani crude oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an inexpensive and easily available organic phase change material (PCM), paraffin has good energy storage effect and can realize efficient energy storage and utilization. In this work, paraffin section–lauric acid (PS–LA) and paraffin section–myristic acid (PS–MA) were prepared by melting blending paraffin section (48–50 °C) with fatty acids to overcome the limitation of phase change temperature of paraffin section (PS). The phase change temperatures of PS–LA and PS–MA were 36.88 and 42.17 °C, and the phase change latent heats were 174.55 and 184.53 J/g, respectively. Thermal cycle treatment and performance analysis shown PS–LA has better thermal reliability, and the mixing process of PS and LA has no chemical reaction. The phase change sunshade made of PS–LA was placed on the outer side of the glass window, which could reduce the central peak temperature of the model by 4.893 °C, playing an excellent role in delaying and reducing the peak temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid and ramjet engines became now effective propulsion systems with great development potential in different fields. They require using proper high-energy components. At high-speed blowing conditions conventional polymer fuels exhibit relatively low regression rate. As an alternative, it is proposed to use paraffin and based on it compositions. Paraffin is high-energy hydrocarbon with a low melting point leading to a high regression rate in high-speed blowing conditions. The results of experimental study of regression behavior of paraffin mixtures with various additives under intensive hot air blowing at 1 MPa pressure are presented. Stearic acid, nanoaluminum Alex, aluminum hydride AlH 3 , B and mechanoactivated aluminum boride AlB 2 were used as 10 % by mass additives. Experiments were conducted on cylindrical perforated samples. Using original design microwave gauge the current diameter of a sample bore was measured during experiment with subsequent calculation of regression rate. Based on experimental data and the results of heat balance calculation, the temperature on the gasified surface of paraffin fuel was estimated. • Paraffin based mixtures regression rate was studied under hot air blowing at 1 MPa. • Original microwave gauge was used to record permanently paraffin regression rate. • Additives of B, AlH 3 and AlB 2 essentially increased the paraffin regression rate. • Additive of Alex practically did not change the paraffin regression rate level. • Need to refine heat transfer coefficient for a liquid collapsing layer is formulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pruritic papular eruption is a dermatosis characterized by pruritic symptoms in patients with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS). Similarly, nodular prurigo is an itchy dermatosis with lesions and histopathological features that resemble those of pruritic papular eruption. Both conditions share a common etiopathogenesis, which involves the cytokines produced by T helper 2 (Th2) cells. Nodular prurigo and pruritic papular eruption are chronic and frequently recalcitrant, thus posing challenges in treatment. The use of biological agents represents a treatment development for chronic and recalcitrant dermatoses. This study aimed to determine the difference in the mean percentage of interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-5 (IL-5) expressions between nodular prurigo and pruritic papular eruption lesions, which may establish a basis for further biological agent therapy. A cross-sectional study was conducted using paraffin block preparations of the skin lesions of patients diagnosed with nodular prurigo (n=16) and pruritic papular eruption (n=16). Each paraffin block preparation involved immunohistochemical staining using IL-4 and IL-5 monoclonal antibodies. The expressions of IL-4 and IL-5 were assessed through ImageJ for Windows, version 1.53 (National Institutes of Health and the Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, University of Wisconsin, USA) by pathologists. The data were analyzed using an unpaired t-test with a significance level of p<0.05. The analytical results indicated that data on the average age of the two groups, disease duration, and storage sample duration followed a normal distribution (p>0.05). The mean percentage of IL-4 expression was significantly different between the nodular prurigo and pruritic papular eruption groups (p=0.000). However, the mean percentage of IL-5 expression was not significantly different between the two groups (p=0.060). In conclusion, the expression of IL-4 was higher in the nodular prurigo group in comparison to the pruritic papular eruption group. Nonetheless, the expression of IL-5 was comparably high in both the nodular prurigo and pruritic papular eruption groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]