bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Content of Two Major Steroidal Glycoalkaloids in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum cv. Micro-Tom) Mutant Lines at Different Ripening Stages
Authors: Ngo Trung Huy , Park Jisu , Jo Yeong Deuk , Jin Chang Hyun , Jung Chan-Hun , Nam Bomi , Han Ah-Reum , Nam Joo-Won
Published: October 2022

Esculeoside A and tomatine are two major steroidal alkaloids in tomato fruit (Solanum lycopersicum) that exhibit anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and anti-hyperlipidemia activities. Tomatine contained in immature tomato fruit is converted to esculeoside A as the fruit matures. To develop new tomato varieties based on the content analysis of functional secondary metabolites, 184 mutant lines were generated from the original cultivar (S. lycopersicum cv. Micro-Tom) by radiation breeding. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with evaporative light scattering detector was used to identify the mutant lines with good traits by analyzing tomatine and esculeoside A content. Compared with the original cultivar, candidates for highly functional cultivars with high esculeoside A content were identified in the mature fruit of the mutant lines. The mutant lines with low and high tomatine content at an immature stage were selected as edible cultivars due to toxicity reduction and as a source of tomatine with various pharmacological activities, respectively. During the process of ripening from green to red tomatoes, the rate of conversion of tomatine to esculeoside A was high in the green tomatoes with a low tomatine content, whereas green tomatoes with a high tomatine content exhibited a low conversion rate. Using methanol extracts prepared from unripe and ripe fruits of the original cultivar and its mutant lines and two major compounds, we examined their cytotoxicity against FaDu human hypopharynx squamous carcinoma cells. Only tomatine exhibited cytotoxicity with an IC50 value of 5.589 μM, whereas the other samples did not exhibit cytotoxicity. Therefore, radiation breeding represents a useful tool for developing new cultivars with high quality, and metabolite analysis is applicable for the rapid and objective selection of potential mutant lines.
Variation of Anthocyanin, Phenol, and Antioxidant Capacity in Straw among Rice Varieties and Growing Locations as a Potential Source of Natural Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Jumrus Suchada , Yamuangmorn Supapohn , Veeradittakit Jeeraporn , Kamthai Suthaphat , Lordkaew Sithisavet , Suwan Teewara , Jamjod Sansanee , Prom-u-thai Chanakan
Published: October 2022

This study evaluated the variation in bioactive compounds (anthocyanins, phenols, and antioxidants) among 22 rice varieties in the same growing locations and among four varieties collected from eight different provinces in Northern Thailand. Wide variation in anthocyanins, phenols, and antioxidant capacity was established, ranging from 1.6 to 33.0 mg/100 g, 249.9 to 477.7 mg gallic acid/100 g, and 0 to 3,288.5 mg trolox equivalent/100 g, respectively. The highest straw anthocyanin and phenol concentrations were found in KDK (a traditional photoperiod-sensitive variety with purple pericarp and leaves) and K4 (an advanced, photoperiod-insensitive variety with purple pericarp and leaves), while the highest antioxidant capacity was found in KH CMU (an improved traditional photoperiod sensitive variety with a purple pericarp and green leaves) and K4. The variation of the bioactive compounds was also found in the same variety grown at different locations, e.g., the KDMl105 grown in Prayao province had a straw anthocyanin concentration higher than when grown in Mae Hong Son province. The effect was also observed in phenol content and antioxidant capacity when the same rice variety was grown across various locations. A significant correlation between total phenol and antioxidant capacity was observed across rice varieties and growing locations but was not found between anthocyanin and antioxidant capacity. This study found that the bioactive compounds in rice straw varied among rice varieties and growing locations. Straw phenol acts as a major antioxidant that can be used as a characteristic for the selection of rice varieties with high antioxidant capacity for use at the industrial scale for the processing of food, pharmaceuticals, and medicinal products.
SpatialAquaCrop, an R Package for Raster-Based Implementation of the AquaCrop Model
Authors: Barros Vinicius Deganutti De , Waltner István , Minoarimanana Rakotoarivony A. , Halupka Gábor , Sándor Renáta , Kaldybayeva Dana , Gelybó Györgyi
Published: October 2022

Modeling crop water use and soil moisture availability is becoming increasingly critical, particularly in light of recent drought events. Our study focuses on the spatial application of the AquaCrop model, using a raster-based approach in an R-based environment. The formulated methodology was initially applied and tested on two point-based examples in the Central region of Hungary, followed by the spatial application of the model at the Rákos Stream catchment in the same region. For evaluation purposes, we also utilized satellite-based NDVI data. The results showed that there is a strong correlation between NDVI values and the model-based biomass estimation. We also found that the model simulated the soil moisture content fairly well, with a correlation coefficient of 0.82. While our results support the validity of the applied methodology, it is also clear that input data availability and quality are still critical issues in spatial application of the AquaCrop model.
L-Aspartate and L-Glutamine Inhibit Beta-Aminobutyric Acid-Induced Resistance in Tomatoes
Authors: Janotík Adam , Dadáková Kateřina , Lochman Jan , Zapletalová Martina
Published: October 2022

Plant diseases caused by pathogens lead to economic and agricultural losses, while plant resistance is defined by robustness and timing of defence response. Exposure to microbial-associated molecular patterns or specific chemical compounds can promote plants into a primed state with more robust defence responses. β-aminobutyric acid (BABA) is an endogenous stress metabolite that induces resistance, thereby protecting various plants’ diverse stresses by induction of non-canonical activity after binding into aspartyl-tRNA synthetase (AspRS). In this study, by integrating BABA-induced changes in selected metabolites and transcript data, we describe the molecular processes involved in BABA-induced resistance (BABA-IR) in tomatoes. BABA significantly restricted the growth of the pathogens P. syringae pv. tomato DC3000 and was related to the accumulation of transcripts for pathogenesis-related proteins and jasmonic acid signalling but not salicylic acid signalling in Arabidopsis. The resistance was considerably reduced by applying amino acids L-Asp and L-Gln when L-Gln prevents general amino acid inhibition in plants. Analysis of amino acid changes suggests that BABA-IR inhibition by L-Asp is due to its rapid metabolisation to L-Gln and not its competition with BABA for the aspartyl-tRNA synthetase (AspRS) binding site. Our results showed differences between the effect of BABA on tomatoes and other model plants. They highlighted the importance of comparative studies between plants of agronomic interest subjected to treatment with BABA.
Cachrys spp. from Southern Italy: Phytochemical Characterization and JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway Inhibition
Authors: Perri Maria Rosaria , Pellegrino Michele , Aquaro Stefano , Cavaliere Fabiola , Lupia Carmine , Uzunov Dimitar , Marrelli Mariangela , Conforti Filomena , Statti Giancarlo
Published: October 2022

Different phytochemical compounds have been demonstrated to modulate the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. Here, three Cachrys species from Southern Italy were investigated for both the phytochemical profile and the potential anti-inflammatory properties. The aerial parts were extracted with methanol through Naviglio Extractor®, an innovative solid-liquid extraction technique that allows to obtain high quality extracts by working with gradient pressure. Extracts were analyzed with GC-MS and standardized in furanocoumarin content, resulting rich in xanthotoxin, bergapten and isopimpinellin. Given the known ability of bergapten to inhibit the JAK/STAT signaling pathway by decreasing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and inflammatory mediators (NO) in RAW 264.7 cells activated by LPS, Cachrys extracts were investigated for their biological properties. The results obtained in this study showed that Cachrys pungens extract, presenting the highest content in furanocoumarins (7.48 ± 0.48 and 2.94 ± 0.16 mg/50 mg of extract for xanthotoxin and bergapten, respectively), significantly decreased STAT3 protein levels, pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and increased IL-10 anti-inflammatory cytokine. Cachrys ferulacea significantly decreased JAK2 phosphorylation, being even more effective than bergapten. In conclusion, investigated extracts could be potential candidates for the search of novel anti-inflammatory agents acting via inhibiting the JAK/STAT signaling pathway.
Microencapsulation of Bacillus Strains for Improving Wheat (Triticum turgidum Subsp. durum) Growth and Development
Authors: Rojas-Padilla Jonathan , de-Bashan Luz , Parra-Cota Fannie , Rocha-Estrada Jorge , de los Santos-Villalobos Sergio
Published: October 2022

Bio-formulation technologies have a limited impact on agricultural productivity in developing countries, especially those based on plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria. Thus, calcium alginate microbeads were synthesized and used for the protection and delivery of three beneficial Bacillus strains for agricultural applications. The process of encapsulation had a high yield per gram for all bacteria and the microbeads protected the Bacillus strains, allowing their survival, after 12 months of storage at room temperature. Microbead analysis was carried out by observing the rate of swelling and biodegradation of the beads and the released-establishment of bacteria in the soil. These results showed that there is an increase of around 75% in bead swelling on average, which allows for larger pores, and the effective release and subsequent establishment of the bacteria in the soil. Biodegradation of microbeads in the soil was gradual: in the first week, they increased their weight (75%), which consistently results in the swelling ratio. The co-inoculation of the encapsulated strain TRQ8 with the other two encapsulated strains showed plant growth promotion. TRQ8 + TRQ65 and TRQ8 + TE3T bacteria showed increases in different biometric parameters of wheat plants, such as stem height, root length, dry weight, and chlorophyll content. Thus, here we demonstrated that the application of alginate microbeads containing the studied strains showed a positive effect on wheat plants.
Intercropping Salt-Sensitive Lactuca sativa L. and Salt-Tolerant Salsola soda L. in a Saline Hydroponic Medium: An Agronomic and Physiological Assessment
Authors: Atzori Giulia , Guidi Nissim Werther , Mancuso Stefano , Palm Emily
Published: October 2022

Competition for freshwater is increasing, with a growing population and the effects of climate change limiting its availability. In this experiment, Lactuca sativa plants were grown hydroponically with or without a 15% share of seawater (12 dS m−1) alone or intercropped with Salsola soda to demonstrate if L. sativa benefits from sodium removal by its halophyte companion. Contrary to the hypothesis, saline-grown L. sativa plants demonstrated reduced growth compared to the control plants regardless of the presence or absence of S. soda. Both limitations in CO2 supply and photosystem efficiency may have decreased CO2 assimilation rates and growth in L. sativa plants grown in the seawater-amended solutions. Surprisingly, leaf pigment concentrations increased in salt-treated L. sativa plants, and most notably among those intercropped with S. soda, suggesting that intercropping may have led to shade-induced increases in chlorophyll pigments. Furthermore, increased levels of proline indicate that salt-treated L. sativa plants were experiencing stress. In contrast, S. soda produced greater biomass in saline conditions than in control conditions. The mineral element, carbohydrate, protein, polyphenol and nitrate profiles of both species differed in their response to salinity. In particular, salt-sensitive L. sativa plants had greater accumulations of Fe, Ca, P, total phenolic compounds and nitrates under saline conditions than salt-tolerant S. soda. The obtained results suggest that intercropping salt-sensitive L. sativa with S. soda in a hydroponic system did not ameliorate the growing conditions of the salt-sensitive species as was hypothesized and may have exacerbated the abiotic stress by increasing competition for limited resources such as light. In contrast, the saline medium induced an improvement in the nutritional profile of S. soda. These results demonstrate an upper limit of the seawater share and planting density that can be used in saline agriculture when intercropping S. soda plants with other salt-sensitive crops.
Plant Growth Promotion and Heat Stress Amelioration in Arabidopsis Inoculated with Paraburkholderia phytofirmans PsJN Rhizobacteria Quantified with the GrowScreen-Agar II Phenotyping Platform
Authors: Macabuhay Allene , Arsova Borjana , Watt Michelle , Nagel Kerstin A. , Lenz Henning , Putz Alexander , Adels Sascha , Müller-Linow Mark , Kelm Jana , Johnson Alexander A. T. , Walker Robert , Schaaf Gabriel , Roessner Ute
Published: October 2022

High temperatures inhibit plant growth. A proposed strategy for improving plant productivity under elevated temperatures is the use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). While the effects of PGPR on plant shoots have been extensively explored, roots—particularly their spatial and temporal dynamics—have been hard to study, due to their below-ground nature. Here, we characterized the time- and tissue-specific morphological changes in bacterized plants using a novel non-invasive high-resolution plant phenotyping and imaging platform—GrowScreen-Agar II. The platform uses custom-made agar plates, which allow air exchange to occur with the agar medium and enable the shoot to grow outside the compartment. The platform provides light protection to the roots, the exposure of it to the shoots, and the non-invasive phenotyping of both organs. Arabidopsis thaliana, co-cultivated with Paraburkholderia phytofirmans PsJN at elevated and ambient temperatures, showed increased lengths, growth rates, and numbers of roots. However, the magnitude and direction of the growth promotion varied depending on root type, timing, and temperature. The root length and distribution per depth and according to time was also influenced by bacterization and the temperature. The shoot biomass increased at the later stages under ambient temperature in the bacterized plants. The study offers insights into the timing of the tissue-specific, PsJN-induced morphological changes and should facilitate future molecular and biochemical studies on plant–microbe–environment interactions.
A Flexible Multifunctional PAN Piezoelectric Fiber with Hydrophobicity, Energy Storage, and Fluorescence
Authors: Shi Qisong , Xue Rui , Huang Yan , He Shifeng , Wu Yibo , Liang Yongri
Published: October 2022

Lightweight, flexible, and hydrophobic multifunctional piezoelectric sensors have increasingly important research value in contemporary society. They can generate electrical signals under the action of pressure and can be applied in various complex scenarios. In this study, we prepared a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) composite fiber doped with imidazolium type ionic liquids (ILs) and europium nitrate hexahydrate (Eu (NO3)3·6H2O) by a facile method. The results show that the PAN composite fibers had excellent mechanical properties (the elongation at break was 114% and the elastic modulus was 2.98 MPa), hydrophobic self-cleaning ability (water contact angle reached 127.99°), and can also emit light under UV light irradiation red fluorescence. In addition, thanks to the induction of the piezoelectric phase of PAN by the dual fillers, the composite fibers exhibited efficient energy storage capacity and excellent sensitivity. The energy density of PAN@Eu-6ILs reached a maximum of 44.02 mJ/cm3 and had an energy storage efficiency of 80%. More importantly, under low pressure detection, the sensitivity of the composite fiber was 0.69 kPa−1. The research results show that this PAN composite fiber has the potential to act as wearable piezoelectric devices, energy storage devices, and other electronic devices.
Plastics and Microplastic in the Cosmetic Industry: Aggregating Sustainable Actions Aimed at Alignment and Interaction with UN Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Cubas Anelise Leal Vieira , Bianchet Ritanara Tayane , Reis Izamara Mariana Aparecida Souza dos , Gouveia Isabel C.
Published: October 2022

Excessive use of petroleum derivatives in cosmetics, whether in compositions or packaging, predominating the use of plastics, parabens, microplastics and other polymers, has had negative environmental impacts. The cosmetics market has gained prominence in recent years and bioeconomy and circular economy policies are putting pressure on the market to use bio-based and biodegradable materials. In this context, the objective of this review article is to provide an overview of how the aggregation of sustainable actions in the cosmetic industry contributes to the fulfillment of the 2030 Agenda and how this can serve as a guide in building a more resilient and sustainable society. For that, the generation of residues during the production processes was examined and the environmental problems generated by the cosmetic industry were addressed. Then, the role of aggregating sustainable actions and innovations with regard to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the cosmetic industry were evaluated.
Comparative Study of Octavinyl Oligomeric Sesquisiloxane Nanomaterial-Modified Asphalt Using Molecular Dynamics Method
Authors: Feng Lei , Zhao Peng , Chen Tongdan , Jing Minghai
Published: October 2022

This paper mainly studies the compatibility and properties of octavinyl oligomeric silsesquioxane nanomaterial (nano-OvPOSS)-modified asphalt, in comparison with those of traditional zinc oxide nanomaterial (nano-ZnO) and silica nanomaterial (nano-SiO2), through the method of molecular dynamics simulation. Nano-OvPOSS, an organic–inorganic nano-hybrid material, is studied for the first time in the application of asphalt modification. By studying different sizes and types of nanomaterials, this paper elucidates the superiority of nano-OvPOSS as an asphalt modifier owing to the unique microstructure of eight organic groups of its inorganic framework. According to the results, nano-OvPOSS does not aggregate in the modified asphalt system and displays the best compatibility with asphalt when compared with nano-SiO2 and nano-ZnO. Moreover, nano-OvPOSS exhibits the most favorable compatibility with resinous oil out of the four asphalt components. The size of nano-OvPOSS determines its compatibility with asphalt. The smaller the particle size of nano-OvPOSS, the better its compatibility with asphalt. Therefore, out of all the four sizes of nano-OvPOSS (4.4 Å, 7 Å, 10 Å, and 20 Å) adopted in this study, the 4.4 Å nano-OvPOSS exhibits the best compatibility with asphalt. Additionally, compared with nano-SiO2 and nano-ZnO, nano-OvPOSS is capable of attracting more asphalt molecules around it so that it reduces the largest amount of ratio of free volume (RFV) of matrix asphalt, which can be reduced by 9.4%. Besides these characteristics, the addition of nano-OvPOSS into the matrix asphalt contributes to higher heat capacity, bulk modulus, and shear modulus of the asphalt system, which were increased by 14.3%, 74.7%, and 80.2%, respectively, thereby guaranteeing a more desirable temperature stability and deformation resistance in the asphalt system. Accordingly, nano-OvPOSS can be employed as a viable asphalt modifier to ensure a well-rounded performance of modified asphalt.
A Pilot Study on Monomer and Bisphenol A (BPA) Release from UDMA-Based and Conventional Indirect Veneering Composites
Authors: Hampe Tristan , Liersch Julia , Wiechens Bernhard , Wassmann Torsten , Schubert Andrea , Alhussein Mohammad , Bürgers Ralf , Krohn Sebastian
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to investigate the release of common monomers from conventional (Dialog Vario, Enamel Plus HFO) and UDMA-based indirect veneering composites (VITA VM LC, GC Gradia). Ten cylindrical samples of each material were prepared (n = 40), immersed in HPLC grade water, and incubated for 24 h in an incubation shaker at 37 °C and 112 rpm. Extraction was performed following ISO 10993-12 and monomers were detected and quantified by HPLC-MS/MS. In all the samples, urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) and bisphenol A (BPA) were quantifiable. Compared to water blanks, BPA levels were only elevated in the eluates from conventional composites. In all other samples, concentrations were in the range of extraneous BPA and were therefore clinically irrelevant. Low concentrations of Bisphenol A-glycidyl methacrylate (BisGMA) were found in one BPA-free composite and in both conventional materials. Statistical analyses showed that BPA-free materials released significantly less BisGMA and no BPA, while UDMA elution was comparable to elution from conventional materials. All measured concentrations were below reported effective cytotoxic concentrations. Considering these results, the substitution of BPA-derivatives with UDMA might be beneficial since BPA-associated adverse effects are ruled out. Further studies should be enrolled to test the biocompatibility of UDMA on cells of the oral environment.
A Study of the Performance Degradation of Conductive Threads Based on the Effects of Tensile Forces and Repeated Washing
Authors: Stavrakis Adrian K. , Simić Mitar , Stojanović Goran M.
Published: October 2022

In recent years, after the ongoing success in the creation of portable electronic devices, an increasing effort has been put in creating wearable devices capable of sensing multiple parameters while being imperceptible to the user. A field that has recently gained attention due to this is that of textile electronics. For this purpose, one of the most commonly used materials is conductive threads, capable of sustaining an electrical connection, while at the same time being part of a garment. As research on the performance and stability of such threads is scarce, the aim of this work is to study the effects of tension on readily available conductive threads and to verify their suitability and reliability for e-textile applications. After testing seven commercially available threads, this study demonstrates that the nominal parameters provided by the manufacturers are not in line with experimentation, and that both embroidery and washing have an impact on their performance.
Assessing the In Vivo Biocompatibility of Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Nanoparticles
Authors: Kassem Samr , Piletsky Stanislav S. , Yesilkaya Hasan , Gazioglu Ozcan , Habtom Medhanie , Canfarotta Francesco , Piletska Elena , Spivey Alan C. , Aboagye Eric O. , Piletsky Sergey A.
Published: October 2022

Molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles (nanoMIPs) are high affinity synthetic receptors which show promise as imaging and therapeutic agents. Comprehensive analysis of the in vivo behaviour of nanoMIPs must be performed before they can be considered for clinical applications. This work reports the solid-phase synthesis of nanoMIPs and an investigation of their biodistribution, clearance and cytotoxicity in a rat model following both intravenous and oral administration. These nanoMIPs were found in each harvested tissue type, including brain tissue, implying their ability to cross the blood–brain barrier. The nanoMIPs were cleared from the body via both faeces and urine. Furthermore, we describe an immunogenicity study in mice, demonstrating that nanoMIPs specific for a cell surface protein showed moderate adjuvant properties, whilst those imprinted for a scrambled peptide showed no such behaviour. Given their ability to access all tissue types and their relatively low cytotoxicity, these results pave the way for in vivo applications of nanoMIPs.
On the Effect of Lattice Topology on Mechanical Properties of SLS Additively Manufactured Sheet-, Ligament-, and Strut-Based Polymeric Metamaterials
Authors: Abou-Ali Aliaa M. , Lee Dong-Wook , Abu Al-Rub Rashid K.
Published: October 2022

Cellular lattices with architectural intricacy or metamaterials have gained a substantial amount of attention in the past decade due to the recent advances in additive manufacturing methods. The lattice topology controls its physical and mechanical properties; therefore, the main challenge is selecting the appropriate lattice topology for a desired function and application. In this work, we comprehensively study the topology–property relationship of three classes of polymer metamaterials based on triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) of sheet/shell and ligament types, and other types of well-known strut-based lattices. The study uses a holistic approach of designing, additive manufacturing, microstructural characterization, and compressive uniaxial mechanical testing of these polymer lattices that are 3D-printed using the laser powder bed fusion technique known as selective laser sintering (SLS). In total, 55 lattices with different topologies and relative densities were 3D-printed and tested. Printing quality was assessed using scanning electron microscopy and micro-computed tomography. The extracted mechanical properties of elastic modulus, yield strength, plateau strength, and energy absorption are thoroughly compared between the different lattice architectures. The results show that all the investigated ligament-based TPMS polymer lattices exhibit bending-dominated elastic and plastic behavior, indicating that they are suitable candidates for energy absorbing applications. The sheet-based TPMS polymer lattices, similarly to the well-known Octet-Truss lattice, exhibited an elastic stretching-dominated mode of deformation and proved to have exceptional stiffness as compared to all other topologies, especially at low relative densities. However, the sheet-based TPMS polymer lattices exhibited a bending-dominated plastic behavior which is mainly driven by manufacturing defects. Overall, however, sheet-based TPMS polymer lattices exhibited the best mechanical properties, followed by strut-based lattices and finally by ligament-based TPMS lattices. Finally, it is depicted that at high relative densities, the mechanical properties of lattices of various architectures tend to converge, which implies that the topological effect is more significant at low relative densities. Generally, this study provides important insights about the selection of polymer mechanical metamaterials for various applications, and shows the superiority of TPMS-based polymer metamaterials as compared to several other classes of polymer mechanical metamaterials.
Preparation of Temperature-Responsive Antibody–Nanoparticles by RAFT-Mediated Grafting from Polymerization
Authors: Yoshihara Erika , Nabil Ahmed , Mochizuki Shinichi , Iijima Michihiro , Ebara Mitsuhiro
Published: October 2022

Herein, we report the preparation of temperature-responsive antibody–nanoparticles by the direct polymerization of N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm) from immunoglobulin G (IgG). To this end, a chain transfer agent (CTA) was introduced into IgG, followed by the precipitation polymerization of NIPAAm in an aqueous medium via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer polymerization above the lower critical solution temperature (LCST). Consequently, antibody–polymer particles with diameters of approximately 100–200 nm were formed. Owing to the entanglement of the grafted polymers via partial chemical crosslinking, the antibody–nanoparticles maintained their stability even at temperatures below the LCST. Further, the dispersed nanoparticles could be collected by thermal precipitation above the LCST. Additionally, the antibody–nanoparticles formulation could maintain its binding constant and exhibited a good resistance against enzymatic treatment. Thus, the proposed antibody–nanoparticles can be useful for maximizing the therapeutic potential of antibody–drug conjugates or efficacies of immunoassays and antibody recovery and recycling.
Biosorption of Neodymium (Nd) from Aqueous Solutions Using Spirulina platensis sp. Strains
Authors: Lima Éder , Pinto Diana , Schadeck Netto Matias , Dos Reis Glaydson , Silva Luis , Dotto Guilherme
Published: October 2022

Rare earth elements such as neodymium (Nd) are important elements used mainly in developing new technologies. Although they are found in low concentrations in nature, they can be obtained by extracting solid samples such as phosphogypsum. Among the techniques, adsorption has been used successfully with several adsorbent materials. In this work, two strains of Spirulina platensis (LEB-18 and LEB-52) were employed as biosorbents for efficiently removing the Nd element from the aqueous media. Biosorption tests were carried out in a batch system, and the results of the biosorption kinetics showed that for both materials, the biosorption of Nd was better described by the Avrami model. Moreover, it could be considered that 80 min would be necessary to attain the equilibrium of Nd(III) using both biosorbents. The result of the biosorption isotherms showed that for both strains, the best-fitted model was the Liu model, having a maximum biosorption capacity of 72.5 mg g−1 for LEB-18 and 48.2 mg g−1 for LEB-52 at a temperature of 298 K. Thermodynamics of adsorption showed that for both LEB-18 and LEB-52 the process was favorable (∆G° < 0) and exothermic (∆H° −23.2 for LEB-18 and ∆H° −19.9 for LEB-52). Finally, both strains were suitable to uptake Nd, and the better result of LEB-18 could be attributed to the high amount of P and S groups in this biomass. Based on the results, a mechanism of electrostatic attraction of Nd3+ and phosphate and sulfate groups of both strains of Spirulina platensis was proposed.
A Review of Research on the Effect of Temperature on the Properties of Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Wang Juan , Zhang Chenxiao , Deng Yu , Zhang Peng
Published: October 2022

Temperature is one of the main factors affecting the properties of polyurethane foams, and there are large differences in the mechanical properties of polyurethane foams at different temperatures. To understand the effect of temperature on the mechanical properties of polyurethane foams and to provide a theoretical basis for the application of polyurethane foams in extreme environments, this paper systematically describes the research on the effect of mold temperature, raw material temperature, and environmental temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of polyurethane foams in the formation and service stages of rigid polyurethane foams by domestic and foreign scholars, and summarizes the effect of temperature on the mechanical properties of polyurethane foams and the mechanism of action. A review of the literature shows that the effect of different temperatures on the mechanical properties of polyurethane foams can be summarized. The literature review shows that there are certain changes in the foaming process, pore structure, and mechanical properties of polyurethane foams at different temperatures, and the increase in temperature generally leads to the increase in pore size, decrease in density, and decrease in mechanical properties of polyurethane foams.
Manufacturing of Carbon Fibers/Polyphenylene Sulfide Composites via Induction-Heating Molding: Morphology, Mechanical Properties, and Flammability
Authors: Kang Chang-Soo , Shin Hyun-Kyu , Chung Yong-Sik , Seo Min-Kang , Choi Bo-Kyung
Published: October 2022

Conventional thermosetting composites exhibit advantageous mechanical properties owing to the use of an autoclave; however, their wide usage is limited by high production costs and long molding times. In contrast, the fabrication of thermoplastic composites involves out-of-autoclave processes that use press equipment. In particular, induction-heating molding facilitates a quicker thermal cycle, reduced processing time, and improved durability of the thermoplastic polymers; thus, the process cost and production time can be reduced. In this study, carbon fiber/polyphenylene sulfide thermoplastic composites were manufactured using induction-heating molding, and the relationships among the process, structure, and mechanical properties were investigated. The composites were characterized using optical and scanning electron microscopy, an ultrasonic C-scan, and X-ray computed tomography. In addition, the composites were subjected to flammability tests. This study provides novel insights into the optimization of thermoplastic composite manufacturing and thermoset composite curing processes.
Polyethylene Glycol-b-poly(trialkylsilyl methacrylate-co-methyl methacrylate) Hydrolyzable Block Copolymers for Eco-Friendly Self-Polishing Marine Coatings
Authors: Guazzelli Elisa , Oliva Matteo , Pretti Carlo , Monni Gianfranca , Fahs Armand , Bressy Christine , Martinelli Elisa
Published: October 2022

Hydrolyzable block copolymers consisting of a polyethylene glycol (PEG) first block and a random poly(trialkylsilyl methacrylate (TRSiMA, R = butyl, isopropyl)-co-methyl methacrylate (MMA)) second block were synthesized by RAFT polymerization. Two PEGs with different molar masses (Mn = 750 g/mol (PEG1) and 2200 g/mol (PEG2)) were used as macro-chain transfer agents and the polymerization conditions were set in order to obtain copolymers with a comparable mole content of trialkylsilyl methacrylate (~30 mole%) and two different PEG mole percentages of 10 and 30 mole%. The hydrolysis rates of PEG-b-(TRSiMA-co-MMA) in a THF/basic (pH = 10) water solution were shown to drastically depend on the nature of the trialkylsilyl groups and the mole content of the PEG block. Films of selected copolymers were also found to undergo hydrolysis in artificial seawater (ASW), with tunable erosion kinetics that were modulated by varying the copolymer design. Measurements of the advancing and receding contact angles of water as a function of the immersion time in the ASW confirmed the ability of the copolymer film surfaces to respond to the water environment as a result of two different mechanisms: (i) the hydrolysis of the silylester groups that prevailed in TBSiMA-based copolymers; and (ii) a major surface exposure of hydrophilic PEG chains that was predominant for TPSiMA-based copolymers. AFM analysis revealed that the surface nano-roughness increased upon immersion in ASW. The erosion of copolymer film surfaces resulted in a self-polishing, antifouling behavior against the diatom Navicula salinicola. The amount of settled diatoms depended on the hydrolysis rate of the copolymers.
Different Preparation Method of Nanocellulose from Macaranga gigantea and Its Preliminary Study on Packaging Film Potential
Authors: Jasmani Latifah , Jamaluddin Nurul Ain Nadirah , Rusli Rafeadah , Adnan Sharmiza , Zakaria Sarani
Published: October 2022

Nanocellulose is a versatile cellulosic nanomaterial that can be used in many application areas. Applying different preparation strategies leads to different types of nanocellulose. In this study, nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) and nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) were prepared from lesser known wood species, viz., Macaranga gigantea, using sulfuric acid hydrolysis and enzymatic pretreatment with ultrafine grinding approaches, respectively. The respective nanocellulose was characterized by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), atomic force microscopy (AFM). It was then converted into a thin film to assess its performance which includes tensile test, transparency, air permeance, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), and water vapor permeability (WVP) properties. NCC and NFC produced from the raw material of Macaranga had average widths of 6.38 ± 3.92 nm and 13.17 ± 12.71 nm, respectively. Peaks in FTIR spectra showed the conversion of Macaranga wood to nanocellulose by the presence of cellulose fingerprint as well as absence of lignin and hemicellulose after alkaline treatment. The successful conversion was also supported by XRD analysis which displayed the increased crystallinity value from 54% to 70%. TGA decomposition pattern at 200–490 °C revealed the thermal stability of the samples. The thin film produced from nanocelluloses had WVTR values of 4.58 and 12.14 g/(day·m2) for NFC and NCC, respectively, comparable to those of films from polyester and oriented polypropylene. Nanocellulose-based thin film has the potential to be used as sustainable and biodegradable packaging.
Biocidal Coatings from Complexes of Carboxylated Latex Particles and a Linear Cationic Polymer
Authors: Panova Irina G. , Shevaleva Evgeniya A. , Gritskova Inessa A. , Loiko Nataliya G. , Nikolaev Yury A. , Novoskoltseva Olga A. , Yaroslavov Alexander A.
Published: October 2022

A linear polycation, poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride), electrostatically interacts with anionic latex particles from a carboxylated butadiene–styrene copolymer in aqueous solution thus forming an interpolyelectrolyte complex. A mutual neutralization of oppositely charged latex and polycation groups occurs at W = latex/polycation = 50 w/w ratio. At W = 27, an ultimate polycation adsorption is reached, resulting in the formation of positive polycomplex particles, while at W ˂ 27, two-component systems are formed composed of positive polycomplex particles and free polycation. A film created from the W = 12 formulation shows a high toxicity to Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and yeast. Repeated washing the film leads to partial removal of polycation and a 50% decrease in the activity of the film only towards Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results indicate the potential for use of the mixed polymer formulations for the fabrication of antimicrobial films and coatings.
Assembling of Metal-Polymer Nanocomposites in Irradiated Solutions of 1-Vinyl-1,2,4-triazole and Au(III) Ions: Features of Polymerization and Nanoparticles Formation
Authors: Zharikov Alexey A. , Zezina Elena A. , Vinogradov Rodion A. , Pozdnyakov Alexander S. , Feldman Vladimir I. , Chvalun Sergey N. , Vasiliev Alexander L. , Zezin Alexey A.
Published: October 2022

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) stabilized with poly(1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole) (PVT) have been synthesized via a one-pot manner in irradiated solutions of 1-vinyl-1,2,4-triazole (VT) and Au(III) ions. The transmission electron microscopy examinations have shown that the sizes of nanoparticles formed range from 1 to 11 nm and are affected by the ratio of VT to gold ions. To study the kinetics peculiarities of the VT polymerization and assembling of AuNPs, UV-Vis spectroscopy was used. The analysis of the data obtained reveals that an inhibition period, influenced by Au(III) concentration, is followed by the polymerization of a monomer. Importantly, the absorbed doses, corresponding to the onset of rapid polymerization, correlate with the doses at which the accelerated formation of AuNPs begins. The kinetics aspects, which could lead to such an effect, are discussed.
Effect of Acetone as Co-Solvent on Fabrication of Polyacrylonitrile Ultrafiltration Membranes by Non-Solvent Induced Phase Separation
Authors: Yushkin Alexey , Basko Andrey , Balynin Alexey , Efimov Mikhail , Lebedeva Tatyana , Ilyasova Anna , Pochivalov Konstantin , Volkov Alexey
Published: October 2022

For the first time, the presence of acetone in the casting solutions of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) in dimethylsulfoxide or N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone was studied with regards to thermodynamical aspects of phase separation of polymeric solutions induced by contact with non-solvent (water), formation and performance of porous membranes of ultrafiltration range. The positions of the liquid equilibrium binodals on the phase diagrams of these three-component and pseudo-three-component mixtures were determined. For PAN—N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone—water glass transition curve on a ternary phase diagram was plotted experimentally for the first time. The real-time evolution of the structure of mixtures of PAN with solvents (co-solvents) upon contact with a non-solvent (water) has been studied. The thermodynamic analysis of the phase diagrams of these mixtures, together with optical data, made it possible to propose a mechanism of structure formation during non-solvent induced phase separation of different mixtures. The addition of acetone promotes the formation of a spongy layer on the membrane surface, which decreases the probability of defect formation on the membrane surface and keeps finger-like macrovoids from the underlying layers of the membrane. It was shown that the molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) of the membranes can be improved from 58 down to 1.8 kg/mol by changing the acetone content, while polymer concentration remained the same.
Preparation and Performance Characterization of Exploding Foil Initiator Based on ODPA-ODA Polyimide Flyer
Authors: Wu Zhiqing , Lei Fan , Zhan Zhiqiang , Luo Jiangshan , Niu Gao , Li Zhaoguo , Yi Tao , Chen Shufan , Yang Bo , Fu Qiubo , Zhang Zhiming
Published: October 2022

The exploding foil initiator (EFI) system has been extensively used in ignition and detonation sequences and proved to be of high safety and reliability. Polyimide is considered the ideal flyer material for EFI due to its excellent performance, including thermal stability, outstanding mechanical properties, high radiation resistance, and excellent dielectric properties. In this study, we prepared the EFI based on a polyimide (ODPA-ODA) flyer, which is spin-coated and solidified on patterned copper film in situ. The electric explosion test shows that the prepared EFI has good working performance, and the 4000 V working voltage drove the flyer to reach a maximum velocity of 5096 m/s. The polyimide morphology and chemical structure after the electric explosion was observed by microscope, SEM, XPS, and FTIR, which showed that the polyimide flyer underwent thermal deformation and complex chemical reactions during an electric explosion. A large number of polyimide bonds broke to form new carbonyl compounds, and the opening of aromatic rings was accompanied by the formation of aliphatic hydrocarbon chains. The morphology and chemical structure analysis after the electric explosion test will lay a foundation for us to further understand the working principle and evolution process of polyimide (ODPA-ODA) flyer.
Effect of Chemical Activation on Surface Properties of Poly(tetrafluoroethylene-co-hexafluoropropylene) Film
Authors: Li Xuelei , Zhang Li , Wang Hu , Zhao Yongqing
Published: October 2022

Due to their low surface energy, poly(tetrafluoroethylene-co-hexafluoropropylene) (FEP) films must be treated by chemical or physical activation methods before using. Among these activation strategies, using sodium naphthalene solution is a popular one. However, the effect of this strategy’s chemical activation conditions on the surface properties of the FEP film is rarely discussed. In this study, FEP films were chemically activated by the sodium naphthalene solution with adjusting concentration, solvent, and activation time. With increasing concentration and activation time, many granular substances appeared on the surface of the FEP film. When tetrahydrofuran was used as a solvent, the color of the film gradually turned brown; when 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone was chosen as the solvent, the color change was not very significant. The contact angle was significantly reduced from 112° before activation to 26° after activation, and the surface energy was greatly enhanced from 34 mN m−1 before activation to 66 mN m−1 after activation. In addition, compared with the FEP samples treated by Ar plasma, the sodium naphthalene system showed a stronger activation ability. Activated FEP films that suffered from the Ar plasma treatment could still maintain a higher energy surface than that of the pristine FEP.
Development of Sustainable, Mechanically Strong, and Self-Healing Bio-Thermoplastic Elastomers Reinforced with Alginates
Authors: Utrera-Barrios Saul , Ricciardi Ornella , González Sergio , Verdejo Raquel , López-Manchado Miguel Ángel , Hernández Santana Marianella
Published: October 2022

New bio-thermoplastic elastomer composites with self-healing capacities based on epoxidized natural rubber and polycaprolactone blends reinforced with alginates were developed. This group of salts act as natural reinforcing fillers, increasing the tensile strength of the unfilled rubber from 5.6 MPa to 11.5 MPa without affecting the elongation at break (~1000% strain). In addition, the presence of ionic interactions and hydrogen bonds between the components provides the material with a thermally assisted self-healing capacity, as it is able to restore its catastrophic damages and recover diverse mechanical properties up to ~100%. With the results of this research, an important and definitive step is planned toward the circularity of elastomeric materials.
Gelatin/Hyaluronic Acid Scaffold Coupled to CpG and MAGE-A5 as a Treatment against Murine Melanoma
Authors: Piñón-Zárate Gabriela , Hernández-Téllez Beatriz , Jarquín-Yáñez Katia , Herrera-Enríquez Miguel Ángel , Fuerte-Pérez América Eréndira , Valencia-Escamilla Esther Alejandra , Castell-Rodríguez Andrés Eliú
Published: October 2022

The half-time of cells and molecules used in immunotherapy is limited. Scaffolds-based immunotherapy against cancer may increase the half-life of the molecules and also support the migration and activation of leukocytes in situ. For this purpose, the use of gelatin (Ge)/hyaluronic acid (HA) scaffolds coupled to CpG and the tumor antigen MAGE-A5 is proposed. Ge and HA are components of the extracellular matrix that stimulate cell adhesion and activation of leucocytes; CpG can promote dendritic cell maturation, and MAGE-A5 a specific antitumor response. C57BL/6 mice were treated with Ge/HA/scaffolds coupled to MAGE-A5 and/or CpG and then challenged with the B16-F10 melanoma cell line. Survival, tumor growth rate and the immune response induced by the scaffolds were analyzed. Ge/HA/CpG and Ge/HA/MAGE-A5 mediated dendritic cell maturation and macrophage activation, increased survival, and decreased the tumor growth rate and a tumor parenchyma with abundant cell death areas and abundant tumor cells with melanin granules. Only the scaffolds coupled to MAGE-A5 induced the activation of CD8 T cells. In conclusion, Ge/HA scaffolds coupled to CpG or MAGE-A5, but not the mixture, can induce a successful immune response capable of promoting tumor cell clearance and increased survival.
Permittivity and Dielectric Loss Balance of PVDF/K1.6Fe1.6Ti6.4O16/MWCNT Three-Phase Composites
Authors: Tsyganov Alexey , Vikulova Maria , Artyukhov Denis , Bainyashev Alexey , Goffman Vladimir , Gorokhovsky Alexander , Boychenko Elena , Burmistrov Igor , Gorshkov Nikolay
Published: October 2022

New three-phase composites, destined for application as dielectrics in the manufacturing of passive elements of flexible electronics, and based on polymer (PVDF) matrix filled with powdered ceramics of the hollandite-like (KFTO(H)) structure (5.0; 7.5; 15; 30 vol.%) and carbon (MWCNT) additive (0.5; 1.0; 1.5 wt.% regarding the KFTO(H) amount), were obtained and studied by XRD, FTIR and SEM methods. Chemical composition and stoichiometric formula of the ceramic material synthesized by the sol–gel method were confirmed with the XRF analysis data. The influence of the ceramic and carbon fillers on the electrical properties of the obtained composites was investigated using impedance spectroscopy. The optimal combination of permittivity and dielectric loss values at 1 kHz (77.6 and 0.104, respectively) was found for the compositions containing K1.6Fe1.6Ti6.4O16 (30 vol.%) and MWCNTs (1.0 wt.% regarding the amount of ceramic filler).