bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validating Accuracy of an Internet-Based Application against USDA Computerized Nutrition Data System for Research on Essential Nutrients among Social-Ethnic Diets for the E-Health Era
Authors: Yang Ya-Ling , Yang Hsiao-Ling , Kusuma Joyce D. , Shiao Shyang-Yun Pamela Koong
Published: August 2022

Internet-based applications (apps) are rapidly developing in the e-Health era to assess the dietary intake of essential macro-and micro-nutrients for precision nutrition. We, therefore, validated the accuracy of an internet-based app against the Nutrition Data System for Research (NDSR), assessing these essential nutrients among various social-ethnic diet types. The agreement between the two measures using intraclass correlation coefficients was good (0.85) for total calories, but moderate for caloric ranges outside of <1000 (0.75) and >2000 (0.57); and good (>0.75) for most macro- (average: 0.85) and micro-nutrients (average: 0.83) except cobalamin (0.73) and calcium (0.51). The app underestimated nutrients that are associated with protein and fat (protein: −5.82%, fat: −12.78%, vitamin B12: −13.59%, methionine: −8.76%, zinc: −12.49%), while overestimated nutrients that are associated with carbohydrate (fiber: 6.7%, B9: 9.06%). Using artificial intelligence analytics, we confirmed the factors that could contribute to the differences between the two measures for various essential nutrients, and they included caloric ranges; the differences between the two measures for carbohydrates, protein, and fat; and diet types. For total calories, as an example, the source factors that contributed to the differences between the two measures included caloric range (<1000 versus others), fat, and protein; for cobalamin: protein, American, and Japanese diets; and for folate: caloric range (<1000 versus others), carbohydrate, and Italian diet. In the e-Health era, the internet-based app has the capacity to enhance precision nutrition. By identifying and integrating the effects of potential contributing factors in the algorithm of output readings, the accuracy of new app measures could be improved.
Strains Associated with Two 2020 Welder Anthrax Cases in the United States Belong to Separate Lineages within Bacillus cereus sensu lato
Authors: Carroll Laura M. , Marston Chung K. , Kolton Cari B. , Gulvik Christopher A. , Gee Jay E. , Weiner Zachary P. , Kovac Jasna
Published: August 2022

Anthrax-causing members of Bacillus cereus sensu lato (s.l.) pose a serious threat to public health. While most anthrax-causing strains resemble B. anthracis phenotypically, rare cases of anthrax-like illness caused by strains resembling “B. cereus” have been reported. Here, whole-genome sequencing was used to characterize three B. cereus s.l. isolates associated with two 2020 welder anthrax cases in the United States, which resembled “B. cereus” phenotypically. Comparison of the three genomes sequenced here to all publicly available, high-quality B. cereus s.l. genomes (n = 2890 total genomes) demonstrated that genomes associated with each case effectively belonged to separate species at the conventional 95% average nucleotide identity prokaryotic species threshold. Two PubMLST sequence type 78 (ST78) genomes affiliated with a case in Louisiana were most closely related to B. tropicus and possessed genes encoding the Bps exopolysaccharide capsule, as well as hemolysin BL (Hbl) and cytotoxin K (CytK). Comparatively, a ST108 genome associated with a case in Texas was most closely related to B. anthracis; however, like other anthrax-causing strains most closely related to B. anthracis, this genome did not possess Bps-, Hbl-, or CytK-encoding genes. Overall, results presented here provide insights into the evolution of anthrax-causing B. cereus s.l.
In Vivo and In Silico Study of the Antinociceptive and Toxicological Effect of the Extracts of Petiveria alliacea L. Leaves
Authors: Cruz-Salomón Kelly del Carmen , Cruz-Rodríguez Rosa Isela , Espinosa-Juárez Josué Vidal , Cruz-Salomón Abumalé , Briones-Aranda Alfredo , Ruiz-Lau Nancy , Ruíz-Valdiviezo Víctor Manuel
Published: August 2022

Petiveria alliacea L. is an herb used in traditional medicine in Mexico and its roots have been studied to treat pain. However, until now, the antinociceptive properties of the leaves have not been investigated, being the main section used empirically for the treatment of diseases. For this reason, this study aimed to evaluate the antinociceptive and toxoicological activity of various extracts (aqueous, hexanic, and methanolic) from P. alliacea L. leaves in NIH mice and to perform an in silico analysis of the phytochemical compounds. Firstly, the antinociceptive effect was analyzed using the formalin model and the different doses of each of the extracts that were administered orally to obtain the dose–response curves. In addition, acute toxicity was determined by the up and down method and serum biochemical analysis. Later, the phytochemical study of extracts was carried out by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and visible light spectroscopy, and the volatile chemical components were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Moreover, the most abundant compounds identified in the phytochemical study were analyzed in silico to predict their biological activity (PASSonline) and toxicology (OSIRIS Property Explorer). As a result, it was known that all extracts at doses from 10 to 316 mg/kg significantly reduced the pain response in both phases of the formalin model, with values of 50–60% for the inflammatory response. The toxicological studies (DL50) exhibited that all extracts did not cause any mortality up to the 2000 mg/kg dose level. This was corroborated by the values in the normal range of the biochemical parameters in the serum. Finally, the phytochemical screening of the presence of phenolic structures (coumarins, flavonoids) and terpenes (saponins and terpenes) was verified, and the highest content was of a lipid nature, 1.65 ± 0.54 meq diosgenin/mL in the methanolic extract. A total of 54 components were identified, 11 were the most abundant, and only four (Eicosane, Methyl oleate, 4-bis(1-phenylethyl) phenol, and Ethyl linolenate) of them showed a probability towards active antinociceptive activity in silico greater than 0.5. These results showed that the P. alliacea L. leaf extract possesses molecules with antinociceptive activity.
The Role of Myrrh Metabolites in Cancer, Inflammation, and Wound Healing: Prospects for a Multi-Targeted Drug Therapy
Authors: Suliman Rasha Saad , Alghamdi Sahar Saleh , Ali Rizwan , Aljatli Dimah , Aljammaz Norah Abdulaziz , Huwaizi Sarah , Suliman Rania , Kahtani Khawla Mohammed , Albadrani Ghadeer M. , Barhoumi Tlili , Altolayyan Abdulelah , Rahman Ishrat
Published: August 2022

Background: Myrrh extract is a well-known medicinal plant with significant therapeutic benefits attributed to the activity of its diverse metabolites. It has promising activity against cancer and inflammatory diseases, and could serve as a potential therapeutic alternative since most therapeutic agents have severe side effects that impair quality of life. Method: The current study identified the active metabolites from the myrrh resin methanolic extract. Then, the extracts were tested for in vitro anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activity using cancer cell lines and Tamm-Horsfall Protein 1 (Thp-1)-like macrophage cell lines. Furthermore, using an in vivo rat model, the extracts’ anti-inflammatory and wound-healing activity was investigated. In addition, in silico predictions of the myrrh constituents highlighted the pharmacokinetic properties, molecular targets, and safety profile, including cytochrome P 450 (CYP) inhibition and organ toxicity. Results: Nine secondary metabolites were identified, and computational predictions suggested a good absorption profile, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing effects. The myrrh extract had moderate cytotoxic activity against both HL60 and K562 leukemia cell lines and the KAIMRC1 breast cancer cell line. Myrrh caused a dose-dependent effect on macrophages to increase the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, promote their polarization to classically activated macrophages (M1) and alternatively activated macrophages (M2) phenotypes, and consequently induce apoptosis, highlighting its ability to modulate macrophage function, which could potentially aid in several desired therapeutic processes, including the resolution of inflammation, and autophagy which is an important aspect to consider in cancer treatment. The topical application of myrrh improved wound healing, with no delayed inflammatory response, and promoted complete re-epithelization of the skin, similar to the positive control. In conclusion, we provide evidence for the methanolic extract of myrrh having cytotoxic activity against cancer cells and anti-inflammatory wound-healing properties, which may be attributed to its role in modulating macrophage function. Furthermore, we suggest the active constituents responsible for these properties, which warrants further studies focusing on the precise roles of the active metabolites.
Optimization of Precursor Synthesis Conditions of (2S,4S)4–[18F]FPArg and Its Application in Glioma Imaging
Authors: Huang Yong , Zhang Lu , Wang Meng , Li Chengze , Zheng Wei , Chen Hualong , Liang Ying , Wu Zehui
Published: August 2022

Although the tracer (2S,4S)4–[18F]FPArg is expected to provide a powerful imaging method for the diagnosis and treatment of clinical tumors, it has not been realized due to the low yield of chemical synthesis and radiolabeling. A simple synthetic method for the radiolabeled precursor of (2S,4S)4–[18F]FPArg in stable yield was obtained by adjusting the sequence of the synthetic steps. Furthermore, the biodistribution experiments confirmed that (2S,4S)4–[18F]FPArg could be cleared out quickly in wild type mouse. Cell uptake experiments and U87MG tumor mouse microPET–CT imaging experiments showed that the tumor had high uptake of (2S,4S)4–[18F]FPArg and the clearance was slow, but (2S,4S)4–[18F]FPArg was rapidly cleared in normal brain tissue. MicroPET–CT imaging of nude mice bearing orthotopic HS683–Luc showed that (2S,4S)4–[18F]FPArg can penetrate blood–brain barrier and image gliomas with a high contrast. Therefore, (2S,4S)4–[18F]FPArg is expected to be further applied in the diagnosis and efficacy evaluation of clinical glioma.
Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion (CSII) Combined with Oral Glucose-Lowering Drugs in Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized, Controlled Trials
Authors: Li Hui , Yang Aimin , Zhao Shi , Chow Elaine YK , Javanbakht Mohammad , Li Yinhui , Lin Dandan , Xu Lijuan , Zang Deng , Wang Kai , Ma Li
Published: August 2022

The clinical efficacy of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy combined with six classes of oral glucose-lowering drugs (GLDs) (TZDs/metformin/acarbose/GLP-1 receptor agonist/SGLT-2 inhibitor/DPP-4 inhibitor) was evaluated by a network meta-analysis to provide an evidence-based reference in making a clinical decision on CSII combined with drugs in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Data were retrieved from eight databases: the Chinese Journal Full-Text Database (CNKI), VIP Chinese Science and Technology Periodicals Full-Text Database (VP-CSFD), Wanfang Data Journal Paper Resource (WANFANG), China Biomedical Database (CBM), PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. The retrieval period dated from the library’s construction to 27 June 2021. The search was for randomized, controlled trial studies (RCT) on insulin infusion (CSII) combined with oral hypoglycemic drugs (TZDs/metformin/acarbose/GLP-1 receptor agonist/SGLT-2 inhibitor/DPP-4 inhibitor) in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Quality evaluation and data extraction were performed on the studies included, and network meta-analysis was performed with R4.0.1 software. A total of 56 publications was included in the final network meta-analysis, with a total sample size of 4395. Results based on the network meta-analysis were that CSII combined with a metformin works best on fasting blood glucose (FBG) and 2 h postprandial blood glucose (2hPG) and improves insulin resistance (lower HOMA-IR levels). CSII combined with a DPP-4 inhibitor had the best clinical effect in reducing glycosylated hemoglobin levels. Treatment with CSII combined with a DPP-4 inhibitor was the fastest way to achieve the blood glucose standard. In terms of insulin dosage, an insulin pump (CSII) combined with the GLP-1 receptor agonist can significantly reduce insulin dosage. Network meta-analysis evidence suggests that an insulin infusion (CSII) combined with oral hypoglycemic drugs can improve clinical efficacy in controlling blood sugar and improving insulin resistance, insulin dosage, and standard time. However, the most outstanding performance was that of insulin infusion (CSII) combined with metformin, which had the best clinical effect in controlling blood sugar and improving insulin resistance.
Molecular Targets of Pinocembrin Underlying Its Regenerative Activities in Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Ruttanapattanakul Jirapak , Wikan Nitwara , Potikanond Saranyapin , Nimlamool Wutigri
Published: August 2022

Pinocembrin is one of the well-known compounds in the group of flavonoids. The pharmacological activities of pinocembrin in association with wound-healing activities have been reported. However, its effects on the aspect of cellular interaction underlying growth and survival are still unidentified in human keratinocytes. Our previous study reported that Boesenbergia rotunda potently stimulated survival and proliferation of a human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT). On the basis that pinocembrin is revealed to be one of the major constituents of this plant, we aimed to define the survival- and proliferation-enhancing effects of this compound at the cellular level. Results from the current study confirmed that pinocembrin induced an increase in HaCaT cell number. At the signaling perspective, we identified that pinocembrin significantly triggered ERK1/2 and Akt activation. The stimulating effects of pinocembrin were clearly inhibited by MEK and PI3K inhibitors authenticating that proliferation- and survival-promoting activities of pinocembrin were mainly acted on these two signaling cascades. Altogether, we successfully identified that pinocembrin functions to induce keratinocyte proliferation and survival, at least by provoking MAPK and PI3K pathways. Our study encourages the fact that pinocembrin is one of the interesting natural flavonoid compounds to be developed as a wound closure-promoting agent.
Relationship between Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Target Attainment and Microbiological Outcome in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients with Documented Gram-Negative Superinfections Treated with TDM-Guided Continuous-Infusion Meropenem
Authors: Sanz Codina Maria , Gatti Milo , Troisi Carla , Fornaro Giacomo , Pasquini Zeno , Trapani Filippo , Zanoni Andrea , Caramelli Fabio , Viale Pierluigi , Pea Federico
Published: August 2022

Objectives: The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) target attainment of continuous-infusion (CI) meropenem and microbiological outcome in critical COVID-19 patients with documented Gram-negative superinfections. Methods: Patients receiving CI meropenem for documented Gram-negative infections at the COVID ICU of the IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna and undergoing therapeutic drug monitoring from January 2021 to February 2022 were retrospectively assessed. Average steady-state meropenem concentrations (Css) were calculated and the Css/MIC ratio was selected as a pharmacodynamic parameter of meropenem efficacy. The Css/MIC ratio was defined as optimal if ≥4, quasi-optimal if between 1 and 4, and suboptimal if <1. The relationship between Css/MIC and microbiological outcome was assessed. Results: Overall, 43 critical COVID-19 patients with documented Gram-negative infections were retrieved. Combination therapy was implemented in 26 cases. Css/MIC ratios were optimal in 27 (62.8%), quasi-optimal in 7 (16.3%), and suboptimal in 9 cases (20.9%). Microbiological failure occurred in 21 patients (48.8%), with no difference between monotherapy and combination therapy (43.8% vs. 53.8%; p = 0.53). The microbiological failure rate was significantly lower in patients with an optimal Css/MIC ratio compared to those with a quasi-optimal or suboptimal Css/MIC ratio (33.3% vs. 75.0%; p = 0.01). Conclusion: Suboptimal attainment of meropenem PK/PD targets may be a major determinant impacting on microbiological failure in critical COVID-19 patients with Gram-negative superinfections.
Nanoparticles-Based Strategies to Improve the Delivery of Therapeutic Small Interfering RNA in Precision Oncology
Authors: Huang Jinxing , Xiao Kai
Published: August 2022

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) can selectively suppress the expression of disease-causing genes, holding great promise in the treatment of human diseases, including malignant cancers. In recent years, with the development of chemical modification and delivery technology, several siRNA-based therapeutic drugs have been approved for the treatment of non-cancerous liver diseases. Nevertheless, the clinical development of siRNA-based cancer therapeutics remains a major translational challenge. The main obstacles of siRNA therapeutics in oncology include both extracellular and intracellular barriers, such as instability under physiological conditions, insufficient tumor targeting and permeability (particularly for extrahepatic tumors), off-target effects, poor cellular uptake, and inefficient endosomal escape. The development of clinically suitable and effective siRNA delivery systems is expected to overcome these challenges. Herein, we mainly discuss recent strategies to improve the delivery and efficacy of therapeutic siRNA in cancer, including the application of non-viral nanoparticle-based carriers, the selection of target genes for therapeutic silencing, and the combination with other therapeutic modalities. In addition, we also provide an outlook on the ongoing challenges and possible future developments of siRNA-based cancer therapeutics during clinical translation.
Paracrine Factors of Stressed Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Activate Proangiogenic and Anti-Proteolytic Processes in Whole Blood Cells and Protect the Endothelial Barrier
Authors: Copic Dragan , Direder Martin , Schossleitner Klaudia , Laggner Maria , Klas Katharina , Bormann Daniel , Ankersmit Hendrik Jan , Mildner Michael
Published: August 2022

Tissue-regenerative properties have been attributed to secreted paracrine factors derived from stem cells and other cell types. In particular, the secretome of γ-irradiated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCsec) has been shown to possess high tissue-regenerative and proangiogenic capacities in a variety of preclinical studies. In light of future therapeutic intravenous applications of PBMCsec, we investigated the possible effects of PBMCsec on white blood cells and endothelial cells lining the vasculature. To identify changes in the transcriptional profile, whole blood was drawn from healthy individuals and stimulated with PBMCsec for 8 h ex vivo before further processing for single-cell RNA sequencing. PBMCsec significantly altered the gene signature of granulocytes (17 genes), T-cells (45 genes), B-cells (72 genes), and, most prominently, monocytes (322 genes). We detected a strong upregulation of several tissue-regenerative and proangiogenic cyto- and chemokines in monocytes, including VEGFA, CXCL1, and CXCL5. Intriguingly, inhibitors of endopeptidase activity, such as SERPINB2, were also strongly induced. Measurement of the trans-endothelial electrical resistance of primary human microvascular endothelial cells revealed a strong barrier-protective effect of PBMCsec after barrier disruption. Together, we show that PBMCsec induces angiogenic and proteolytic processes in the blood and is able to attenuate endothelial barrier damage. These regenerative properties suggest that systemic application of PBMCsec might be a promising novel strategy to restore damaged organs.
Abelard and Other Twelfth-Century Thinkers on Social Constructions
Authors: Arlig Andrew W.
Published: August 2022

This article aims to supplement our understanding of later developments within European universities, that is, Scholastic thought, by attending to how certain pre-Scholastics, namely, Peter Abelard and other twelfth-century philosophers, thought about artifacts and social constructions more generally. It focuses on the treatment of artifacts that can be cobbled together out of Abelard’s Dialectica. The article argues that Abelard attempts to sharply distinguish the world of things from the world of human-made objects. This is most apparent in his treatment of creation and human acts of making. Yet there are places in his thought where we see some hesitancy. Many of Abelard’s peers seem to have drawn on the reasons why Abelard hesitates, and they blur the line between human-made objects such as houses and substances such as rocks and humans. Others seem to go further than Abelard—perhaps inspired by some of the thoughts that Abelard also entertains about social constructions such as days and speeches—and assert that even houses are merely convenient fictions.
AtZAT4, a C2H2-Type Zinc Finger Transcription Factor from Arabidopsis thaliana, Is Involved in Pollen and Seed Development
Authors: Puentes-Romero A. Carolina , González Sebastián A. , González-Villanueva Enrique , Figueroa Carlos R. , Ruiz-Lara Simón
Published: August 2022

Pollen plays an essential role in plant fertility by delivering the male gametes to the embryo sac before double fertilization. In several plant species, including Arabidopsis, C2H2-type zinc-finger transcription factors (TFs) have been involved in different stages of pollen development and maturation. ZINC FINGER of Arabidopsis thaliana 4 (AtZAT4) is homologous to such TFs and subcellular localization analysis has revealed that AtZAT4 is located in the nucleus. Moreover, analysis of AtZAT4 expression revealed strong levels of it in flowers and siliques, suggesting a role of the encoded protein in the regulation of genes that are associated with reproductive development. We characterized a T-DNA insertional heterozygous mutant Atzat4 (+/−). The relative gene expression analysis of Atzat4 (+/−) showed significant transcript reductions in flowers and siliques. Furthermore, the Atzat4 (+/−) phenotypic characterization revealed defects in the male germline, showing a reduction in pollen tube germination and elongation. Atzat4 (+/−) presented reduced fertility, characterized by a smaller silique size compared to the wild type (WT), and a lower number of seeds per silique. Additionally, seeds displayed lower viability and germination. Altogether, our data suggest a role for AtZAT4 in fertilization and seed viability, through the regulation of gene expression associated with reproductive development.
“Hong Long” Lychee (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) Is the Optimal Pollinizer for the Main Lychee Cultivars in Israel
Authors: Raz Amir , Goldway Martin , Sapir Gal , Stern Raphael A.
Published: August 2022

The lychee fruit is in high demand worldwide. However, the yields of many cultivars are low, including the high-quality cultivars “Nuomici” (NMC) and ”Fei Zi Xiao” (FZX), which are very tasty and produce large fruit with a small seed, but tend to shed their fruitlets. In a previous work, we found that cross-hand pollination of “Mauritius” (MA) with pollen of another cultivar increased fruit set and reduced fruit-drop in comparison to self-hand pollination. In the current research, we aimed to identify the optimal pollen donor for three of the main cultivars grown in Israel: MA, FZX, and “Tamuz” (TA). We compared the effect of different pollinizers and found that the Vietnamese cultivar “Hong Long” (HL), which is becoming an important cultivar in Israel, was the optimal pollinizer for the three cultivars. In addition, we found that FZX and TA were not self-fertile under the Israeli environmental conditions since they tend to shed fruitlets that originated from self-fertilization. In contrast, MA is able to fertilize itself, although cross-pollination greatly increased its fruit number and size. We also identified a new PCR marker for lychee, M3, that enabled us to distinguish between self- and cross-fertilized FZX fruits pollinated by HL. Our results indicate that cross-pollination, particularly by HL, has beneficial effects on the production of lychee and it is especially important for cultivars that generate small seeds and tend to shed their fruitlets.
Variation in Melatonin Contents and Genetic Dissection of Melatonin Biosynthesis in Sesame
Authors: Wang Xiao , You Jun , Liu Aili , Qi Xin , Li Donghua , Zhao Ya , Zhang Yanxin , Zhang Liangxiao , Zhang Xiurong , Li Peiwu
Published: August 2022

In recent years, people have become increasingly interested in bioactive molecules in plants that are beneficial to human health, and melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) has attracted research attention due to its excellent performance. In this study, the content of melatonin in oilseeds was investigated. From the results, it was found that sesame is an important natural food source of melatonin intake. Furthermore, the variation in melatonin content was explored in a natural sesame population, and its contents varied from 0.04 to 298.62 ng g−1. Through a genome-wide association study (GWAS), a candidate gene SiWRKY67 was screened that regulates melatonin content in sesame. The sesame hairy root transformation system was developed and used to verify this gene, and it was found that the overexpression of SiWRKY67 could positively promote the melatonin content in the hairy roots. Our results provide not only a foundation for understanding the genetic structure of melatonin content in sesame seeds but also a reference for the marker-assisted breeding of sesame varieties with high melatonin content.
Structure and Diffusion of Ionic PDMS Melts
Authors: Karatrantos Argyrios V. , Khantaveramongkol Jettawat , Kröger Martin
Published: August 2022

Ionic polymers exhibit mechanical properties that can be widely tuned upon selectively charging them. However, the correlated structural and dynamical properties underlying the microscopic mechanism remain largely unexplored. Here, we investigate, for the first time, the structure and diffusion of randomly and end-functionalized ionic poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) melts with negatively charged bromide counterions, by means of atomistic molecular dynamics using a united atom model. In particular, we find that the density of the ionic PDMS melts exceeds the one of their neutral counterpart and increases as the charge density increases. The counterions are condensed to the cationic part of end-functionalized cationic PDMS chains, especially for the higher molecular weights, leading to a slow diffusion inside the melt; the counterions are also correlated more strongly to each other for the end-functionalized PDMS. Temperature has a weak effect on the counterion structure and leads to an Arrhenius type of behavior for the counterion diffusion coefficient. In addition, the charge density of PDMS chains enhances the diffusion of counterions especially at higher temperatures, but hinders PDMS chain dynamics. Neutral PDMS chains are shown to exhibit faster dynamics (diffusion) than ionic PDMS chains. These findings contribute to the theoretical description of the correlations between structure and dynamical properties of ion-containing polymers.
Anisotropic Microstructure and Performance Characterization of Wild Silkworm Cocoons for Designing Biomimetic Protective Materials
Authors: Li Mengru , Luo Jie , Xiong Yi , Wu Jisong
Published: August 2022

As a unique and important biopolymer composite, silkworm cocoons have evolved a wide range of different structures and combinations of physical and chemical properties to resist environmental damage and attacks from natural predators. A combination of characterization techniques including scanning electron microscopy, mechanical tests, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were applied to investigate the morphologies, mechanical properties, and nanoscale organizations of Antheraea pernyi cocoons from two different source regions. Mechanical tests were carried out by using rectangular specimens cut from four directions 0° (width of the cocoons), ±45°, and 90° (the length of the cocoon), separately. The mechanical properties such as tensile strength, initial modulus, and maximum load of cocoon in four directions were measured. The structural analysis of silkworm cocoon shows that there is a slightly different combination of morphology and properties that have adapted to coping with diverse local environments. The results of the mechanical properties of silkworm cocoons show that the A. pernyi cocoon from north of China behaved stronger and tougher. Besides, there were slight differences among the results of mechanical properties for 0°, ±45°, and 90° directions of these cocoons. Our studies will help formulate bio-inspired design principles for new materials.
Evaluation of Marker Materials and Spectroscopic Methods for Tracer-Based Sorting of Plastic Wastes
Authors: Olscher Christoph , Jandric Aleksander , Zafiu Christian , Part Florian
Published: August 2022

Plastics are a ubiquitous material with good mechanical, chemical and thermal properties, and are used in all industrial sectors. Large quantities, widespread use, and insufficient management of plastic wastes lead to low recycling rates. The key challenge in recycling plastic waste is achieving a higher degree of homogeneity between the different polymer material streams. Modern waste sorting plants use automated sensor-based sorting systems capable to sort out commodity plastics, while many engineering plastics, such as polyoxymethylene (POM), will end up in mixed waste streams and are therefore not recycled. A novel approach to increasing recycling rates is tracer-based sorting (TBS), which uses a traceable plastic additive or marker that enables or enhances polymer type identification based on the tracer’s unique fingerprint (e.g., fluorescence). With future TBS applications in mind, we have summarized the literature and assessed TBS techniques and spectroscopic detection methods. Furthermore, a comprehensive list of potential tracer substances suitable for thermoplastics was derived from the literature. We also derived a set of criteria to select the most promising tracer candidates (3 out of 80) based on their material properties, toxicity profiles, and detectability that could be applied to enable the circularity of, for example, POM or other thermoplastics.
Analysis of Melt Front Behavior of a Light Guiding Plate during the Filling Phase of Micro-Injection Molding
Authors: Lin Wei-Chun , Fan Fang-Yu , Huang Chiung-Fang , Shen Yung-Kang , Wang Liping
Published: August 2022

When the size of a liquid crystal display (LCD) increases, the light guiding plate (LGP) as the main part of the LCD must adopt a wedge-shaped plate to reduce its weight (the thickness of the LGP decreases because of this) and guide the light to the LCD screen. Micro-injection molding (MIM) is commonly used to manufacture LGPs. During the filling phase of MIM, the entire entering polymer melt front of the LGP should reach the end of the mold cavity at the same time. In this way, there will be no shrinkage or warpage of the LGP in its subsequent application, but it is difficult for the wedge-shaped LGP to meet these requirements. Therefore, the authors hoped to investigate MIM process parameters to change this situation. Otherwise, the LGP is easily deformed during the manufacturing process. Flow characteristics of LGPs were investigated during the filling phase of MIM in this study. Experimental and 3D numerical simulations were used to analyze the hysteresis, i.e., the advance of the polymer melt front of the LGP in MIM. Study results showed that a low injection speed caused a hysteresis effect of the plastic melt front, the solution was to increase the injection speed to improve the situation and an injection speed of 10 cm/s could achieve uniformity of the melt front in MIM. The research results showed that the filling situation of the LGP of MIM in the experiment was very close to that of the 3D numerical simulation.
Material Property Recovery by Controlling the Melt Memory Effects on Recrystallization and on Crystal Deformation: An Approach by the Molecular Dynamics Simulation for Polyethylene
Authors: Yamamoto Takashi , Hussain Mohammed Althaf , Yao Shigeru
Published: August 2022

Degradation in the mechanical properties of recycled polymer materials has been recently appearing as a big issue in polymer science. The molecular mechanism of the degradation is considered in part due to residual memories of flow experienced during molding processes, and therefore the mechanical recycling through remolding involving melting and recrystallization has been attempted in recent years. In the present paper, the molecular processes of melting and recrystallization are investigated by the molecular dynamics simulation for polyethylene with special interest in the melt memory effects. We also studied the mechanical properties of the recrystalized materials that have undergone different recrystallization processes aiming to discover better recycling strategies. A successive step-by-step approach is adopted to study the loss of the crystal memory during retention in the melt, the effects of the melt memory on the mode of recrystallization, the relation between the recrystallization mode and the resulting higher-order structure, and the mechanical properties controlled by the higher-order structures. It is shown that the melt memory clearly remains in various order parameters that persist over time scales corresponding to the Rouse time, the remaining melt memory markedly affects the crystallization mode leading to distinct crystalline morphologies, and the distinct morphologies obtained give different mechanical responses during large deformations.
Comparative Study of Oil Recovery Using Amphoteric Terpolymer and Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide
Authors: Gussenov Iskander Sh. , Mukhametgazy Nurbatyr , Shakhvorostov Alexey V. , Kudaibergenov Sarkyt E.
Published: August 2022

This paper presents the viscosifying and oil recovery efficiencies of a novel high-molecular-weight ternary polyampholyte (TPA), composed of 80 mol.% acrylamide (AAm) (a nonionic monomer), 10 mol.% 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid sodium salt (AMPS) (an anionic monomer), and 10 mol.% (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethylammonium chloride (APTAC) (a cationic monomer), in various high-salinity brines as compared to the efficiency of hydrolyzed poly(acrylamide) (HPAM), which is the most commonly used polymer in oil production. The results show that, in a range of salinity from 200 to 300 g∙L−1, the viscosity of the TPA solution is rather high and relatively stable, whereas that of HPAM severely decreases. The ability of TPA to increase its viscosity in extremely high salinity brines is explained by the antipolyelectrolyte effect, resulting in the unfolding of macromolecular chains of charge-balanced polyampholytes at a quasi-neutral state, which occurs due to the screening of the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged moieties. The novelty of this research is that, in high-salinity reservoirs, the amphoteric terpolymer Aam-AMPS-APTAC may surpass HPAM in oil displacement capability.
β-Ketoenamine Covalent Organic Frameworks—Effects of Functionalization on Pollutant Adsorption
Authors: Machado Tiago F. , Santos Filipa A. , Pereira Rui F. P. , de Zea Bermudez Verónica , Valente Artur J. M. , Serra M. Elisa Silva , Murtinho Dina
Published: August 2022

Water pollution due to global economic activity is one of the greatest environmental concerns, and many efforts are currently being made toward developing materials capable of selectively and efficiently removing pollutants and contaminants. A series of β-ketoenamine covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have been synthesized, by reacting 1,3,5-triformylphloroglucinol (TFP) with different C2-functionalized and nonfunctionalized diamines, in order to evaluate the influence of wall functionalization and pore size on the adsorption capacity toward dye and heavy metal pollutants. The obtained COFs were characterized by different techniques. The adsorption of methylene blue (MB), which was used as a model for the adsorption of pharmaceuticals and dyes, was initially evaluated. Adsorption studies showed that –NO2 and –SO3H functional groups were favorable for MB adsorption, with TpBd(SO3H)2-COF [100%], prepared between TFP and 4,4′-diamine- [1,1′-biphenyl]-2,2′-disulfonic acid, achieving the highest adsorption capacity (166 ± 13 mg g−1). The adsorption of anionic pollutants was less effective and decreased, in general, with the increase in –SO3H and –NO2 group content. The effect of ionic interactions on the COF performance was further assessed by carrying out adsorption experiments involving metal ions. Isotherms showed that nonfunctionalized and functionalized COFs were better described by the Langmuir and Freundlich sorption models, respectively, confirming the influence of functionalization on surface heterogeneity. Sorption kinetics experiments were better adjusted according to a second-order rate equation, confirming the existence of surface chemical interactions in the adsorption process. These results confirm the influence of selective COF functionalization on adsorption processes and the role of functional groups on the adsorption selectivity, thus clearly demonstrating the potential of this new class of materials in the efficient and selective capture and removal of pollutants in aqueous solutions.
Hydrothermal Aging Mechanisms of All-Steel Radial Tire Composites
Authors: Jiang Ning , Zhang Ru , Li Yuankun , Li Ning , Dong Lingbo , Chen Chaozhong , Tan Cao
Published: August 2022

This work focused on the effects of the hydrothermal environment on the aging of all-steel radial tire (ASRT) composites. Composite specimens were conditioned by immersion in deionized water at 30, 60 and 90 °C. Its water absorption, thermal and mechanical properties (tensile strength, elasticity modulus, elongation at break and interfacial shear strength), morphological structure, as well as molecular cross-linking reaction were investigated before and after aging. Results indicated that there was no dynamic equilibrium of water absorption of ASRT composites after deviating from the Fickian model. The molecular cross-linking density of the rubber matrix showed an increase in the early stage of aging. Then, the mechanical properties suffered of a drop due to the degradation of the rubber matrix and the poor interface between the steel fiber and rubber matrix. Additionally, a systematic hygrothermal aging mechanism was proposed.
The Impact of Polymer Electrolyte Properties on Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Badi Nacer , Theodore Azemtsop Manfo , Alghamdi Saleh A. , Al-Aoh Hatem A. , Lakhouit Abderrahim , Singh Pramod K. , Norrrahim Mohd Nor Faiz , Nath Gaurav
Published: August 2022

In recent decades, the enhancement of the properties of electrolytes and electrodes resulted in the development of efficient electrochemical energy storage devices. We herein reported the impact of the different polymer electrolytes in terms of physicochemical, thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Since LIBs use many groups of electrolytes, such as liquid electrolytes, quasi-solid electrolytes, and solid electrolytes, the efficiency of the full device relies on the type of electrolyte used. A good electrolyte is the one that, when used in Li-ion batteries, exhibits high Li+ diffusion between electrodes, the lowest resistance during cycling at the interfaces, a high capacity of retention, a very good cycle-life, high thermal stability, high specific capacitance, and high energy density. The impact of various polymer electrolytes and their components has been reported in this work, which helps to understand their effect on battery performance. Although, single-electrolyte material cannot be sufficient to fulfill the requirements of a good LIB. This review is aimed to lead toward an appropriate choice of polymer electrolyte for LIBs.
Induced Wood-Inorganic Composites in Standing Trees via Slow-Release Drip
Authors: Shi Jiangtao , Zhang Haizhe , Liu Yuhan , Xia Chongyang , Zhang Yaoli
Published: August 2022

It is a novel idea to fabricate wood-inorganic composites by utilizing the transpiration of bionic trees to realize the self-assembly of inorganic precursors in wood formation. We selected a 10-year-old poplar and diffused the solvent or sol containing SiO2 precursor into the xylem via the slow-release drip method. In combination with the moisture in xylem, reactions such as hydrolysis, polycondensation and self-assembly were induced in order to form wood inorganic composites. It was found, through microscopic observation, that such inorganic substances were yellowish brown and widely existed in vessels, wood fibers and ray cells. For the new grown wood, the fiber–tissue ratio and cell wall thickness underwent an increase, while the vessel diameter and tissue ratio experienced a decline. Moreover, such change was related to the concentration of precursors. EDS analysis proved that the elemental composition of sediments in wood cells was C, O, Si, K and Ca. XPS confirmed that the newly formed wood contained silicon oxide, illustrating that the standing tree slow-release drip technology could induce wood to fabricate inorganic composites.
Lignin-Derived Quinone Redox Moieties for Bio-Based Supercapacitors
Authors: Jyothibasu Jincy Parayangattil , Wang Ruei-Hong , Tien You-Ching , Kuo Chi-Ching , Lee Rong-Ho
Published: August 2022

Because of their rapid charging and discharging, high power densities, and excellent cycling life stabilities, supercapacitors have great potential for use in electric vehicles, portable electronics, and for grid frequency modulation. The growing need for supercapacitors that are both efficient and ecologically friendly has generated curiosity in developing sustainable biomass-based electrode materials and electrolytes. Lignin, an aromatic polymer with remarkable electroactive redox characteristics and a large number of active functional groups, is one such candidate for use in renewable supercapacitors. Because its chemical structure features an abundance of quinone groups, lignin undergoes various surface redox processes, storing and releasing both electrons and protons. Accordingly, lignin and its derivatives have been tested as electroactive materials in supercapacitors. This review discusses recent examples of supercapacitors incorporating electrode materials and electrolytes derived from lignin, focusing on the pseudocapacitance provided by the quinone moieties, with the goal of encouraging the use of lignin as a raw material for high-value applications. Employing lignin and its derivatives as active materials in supercapacitor electrodes and as a redox additive in electrolytes has the potential to minimize environmental pollution and energy scarcity while also providing economic benefits.
Bioactive Interpenetrating Hydrogel Networks Based on 2-Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate and Gelatin Intertwined with Alginate and Dopped with Apatite as Scaffolding Biomaterials
Authors: Babić Radić Marija M. , Filipović Vuk V. , Vuković Jovana S. , Vukomanović Marija , Rubert Marina , Hofmann Sandra , Müller Ralph , Tomić Simonida Lj.
Published: August 2022

Our goal was to create bioimitated scaffolding materials for biomedical purposes. The guiding idea was that we used an interpenetrating structural hierarchy of natural extracellular matrix as a “pattern” to design hydrogel scaffolds that show favorable properties for tissue regeneration. Polymeric hydrogel scaffolds are made in a simple, environmentally friendly way without additional functionalization. Gelatin and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate were selected to prepare interpenetrating polymeric networks and linear alginate chains were added as an interpenetrant to study their influence on the scaffold’s functionalities. Cryogelation and porogenation methods were used to obtain the designed scaffolding biomaterials. The scaffold’s structural, morphological, and mechanical properties, in vitro degradation, and cell viability properties were assessed to study the effects of the preparation method and alginate loading. Apatite as an inorganic agent was incorporated into cryogelated scaffolds to perform an extensive biological assay. Cryogelated scaffolds possess superior functionalities essential for tissue regeneration: fully hydrophilicity, degradability and mechanical features (2.08–9.75 MPa), and an optimal LDH activity. Furthermore, cryogelated scaffolds loaded with apatite showed good cell adhesion capacity, biocompatibility, and non-toxic behavior. All scaffolds performed equally in terms of metabolic activity and osteoconductivity. Cryogelated scaffolds with/without HAp could represent a new advance to promote osteoconductivity and enhance hard tissue repair. The obtained series of scaffolding biomaterials described here can provide a wide range of potential applications in the area of biomedical engineering.
Cubosomes: Design, Development, and Tumor-Targeted Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Umar Hassaan , Wahab Habibah A. , Gazzali Amirah Mohd , Tahir Hafsa , Ahmad Waqas
Published: August 2022

Because of the extraordinary advancements in biomedical nanotechnology over the last few decades, traditional drug delivery systems have been transformed into smart drug delivery systems that respond to stimuli. These well-defined nanoplatforms can boost therapeutic targeting efficacy while reducing the side effects/toxicities of payloads, which are crucial variables for enhancing patient compliance by responding to specific internal or external triggers. Cubosomes are lipid-based nano systems that are analogous to well-known vesicular systems, such as lipo- and niosomes. They could be used as part of a unique drug delivery system that includes hydro-, lipo-, and amphiphilic drug molecules. In this review, we critically analyze the relevant literature on cubosomesregarding theories of cubosomeself-assembly, composition, and manufacturing methods, with an emphasis on tumor-targeted drug delivery applications. Due to the bioadhesive and -compatible nature of cubosome dispersion, this review also focuses on a variety of drug delivery applications, including oral, ophthalmic and transdermal.
Volcanic Processes Monitoring and Hazard Assessment Using Integration of Remote Sensing and Ground-Based Techniques
Authors: Calvari Sonia , Bonaccorso Alessandro , Cappello Annalisa , Giudicepietro Flora , Sansosti Eugenio
Published: August 2022

The monitoring of active volcanoes is a complex task based on multidisciplinary and integrated analyses that use ground, drones, and satellite monitoring devices [...]