bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducing the Burn Marks on Injection-Molded Parts by External Gas-Assisted Injection Molding
Authors: Li Jiquan , Liu Wenyong , Xia Xinxin , Zhou Hangchao , Jing Liting , Peng Xiang , Jiang Shaofei
Published: December 2021

A burn mark is a sort of serious surface defect on injection-molded parts. In some cases, it can be difficult to reduce the burn marks by traditional methods. In this study, external gas-assisted injection molding (EGAIM) was introduced to reduce the burn marks, as EGAIM has been reported to reduce the holding pressure. The parts with different severities of burn marks were produced by EGAIM and conventional injection molding (CIM) with the same molding parameters but different gas parameters. The burn marks were quantified by an image processing method and the quantitative method was introduced to discuss the influence of the gas parameters on burn marks. The results show that the burn marks can be eliminated by EGAIM without changing the structure of the part or the mold, and the severity of the burn marks changed from 4.98% with CIM to 0% with EGAIM. Additionally, the gas delay time is the most important gas parameter affecting the burn marks.
Azelaic Acid: A Bio-Based Building Block for Biodegradable Polymers
Authors: Todea Anamaria , Deganutti Caterina , Spennato Mariachiara , Asaro Fioretta , Zingone Guglielmo , Milizia Tiziana , Gardossi Lucia
Published: December 2021

Azelaic acid is a dicarboxylic acid containing nine C atoms, industrially obtained from oleic acid. Besides its important properties and pharmacological applications, as an individual compound, azelaic acid has proved to be a valuable bio-based monomer for the synthesis of biodegradable and sustainable polymers, plasticizers and lubricants. This review discusses the studies and the state of the art in the field of the production of azelaic acid from oleic acid, the chemical and enzymatic synthesis of bio-based oligo and polyester and their properties, including biodegradability and biocompostability.
Mechanical Properties, Surface Assessment, and Structural Analysis of Functionalized CFRPs after Accelerated Weathering
Authors: Semitekolos Dionisis , Konstantopoulos Georgios , Trompeta Aikaterini-Flora , Jones Craig , Rana Amit , Graham Christopher , Giorcelli Mauro , Tagliaferro Alberto , Koumoulos Elias P. , Charitidis Costas A.
Published: December 2021

The present study focuses on the effect of two novel carbon fibre surface treatments, electropolymerisation of methacrylic acid and air pressure plasma, on the mechanical properties and structural integrity of carbon-fibre-reinforced composites under operational conditions. Extensive mechanical testing was applied, both in nano- and macro-scale, to assess the performance of the composites and the interphase properties after ultraviolet/humidity weathering. The results of the mechanical assessment are supported by structure, surface, and chemistry examination in order to reveal the failure mechanism of the composites. Composites with the electropolymerisation treatment exhibited an increase of 11.8% in interlaminar shear strength, while APP treatment improved the property of 23.9%, rendering both surface treatments effective in increasing the fibre-matrix adhesion. Finally, it was proven that the developed composites can withstand operational conditions in the long term, rendering them suitable for a wide variety of structural and engineering applications.
Ethanol Phase Change Actuator Based on Thermally Conductive Material for Fast Cycle Actuation
Authors: Liu Zirui , Sun Bo , Hu Jianjun , Zhang Yunpeng , Lin Zhaohua , Liang Yunhong
Published: December 2021

Artificial muscle actuator has been devoted to replicate the function of biological muscles, playing an important part of an emerging field at inter-section of bionic, mechanical, and material disciplines. Most of these artificial muscles possess their own unique functionality and irreplaceability, but also have some disadvantages and shortcomings. Among those, phase change type artificial muscles gain particular attentions, owing to the merits of easy processing, convenient controlling, non-toxic and fast-response. Herein, we prepared a silicon/ethanol/(graphene oxide/gold nanoparticles) composite elastic actuator for soft actuation. The functional properties are discussed in terms of microstructure, mechanical properties, thermal imaging and mechanical actuation characteristics, respectively. The added graphene oxide and Au nanoparticles can effectively accelerate the heating rate of material and improve its mechanical properties, thus increasing the vaporization rate of ethanol, which helps to accelerate the deformation rate and enhance the actuation capability. As part of the study, we also tested the performance of composite elastomers containing different concentrations of graphene oxide to identify GO-15 (15 mg of graphene oxide per 7.2 mL of material) flexible actuators as the best composition with a driving force up to 1.68 N.
Waste Materials as a Resource for Production of CMC Superabsorbent Hydrogel for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Miljković Vojkan , Gajić Ivana , Nikolić Ljubiša
Published: December 2021

Waste materials are receiving more attention as concerns about the future of our planet increase. Cellulose is the most common substance in agricultural waste. Agricultural wastes containing cellulose are misplaced resources that could be reused in various fields for both environmental and economic benefits. In this work, 32 different kinds of waste are investigated for chemical modification in order to obtain carboxymethyl cellulose for the production of a superabsorbent hydrogel that can be applied in agriculture. A brief literature review is provided to help researchers wishing to obtain carboxymethyl cellulose by carboxymethylation starting with waste materials. We also provide details about methods to obtain as well as verify carboxymethylation. Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), as a constituent of cellulosic water and superabsorbent hydrogels with applications in agriculture, is described. Superabsorbent hydrogels with CMC are able to absorb huge amounts of water and are biodegradable.
Structure Optimization of Cellulose Nanofibers/Poly(Lactic Acid) Composites by the Sizing of AKD
Authors: Li Lei , Cao Minjian , Li Jingdan , Wang Cong , Li Shengjuan
Published: December 2021

Recently, cellulose nanofibers (CNF) are used as one novel fillers to reinforce poly(lactic acid) (PLA) matrix and form PLA green nanocomposites. In the present work, alkyl ketene dimer (AKD) was used as the sizing of CNF to improve the interfacial compatibility between the hydrophilic CNF and the hydrophobic PLA. The interactions between the AKD and CNF were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), which showed the formation of ketone ester structure between AKD and the hydroxyl groups of CNF. Thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) showed the little reduced thermal stability of the AKD-CNF/PLA composites. The AKD-CNF/PLA morphology has rough surfaces due to the incorporation of cellulose nanofibers. The mechanical properties of AKD-CNF/PLA were tested by tensile testing, which discovered more AKD-CNF content enhances stress–strain performance. The highest tensile strength of composites was obtained for PLA with 5.0 wt.% AKD-cellulose, which is almost nine times higher than that of the pure PLA.
Hybrid Proton-Exchange Membrane Based on Perfluorosulfonated Polymers and Resorcinol–Formaldehyde Hydrogel
Authors: Trefilov Alexandra Maria Isabel , Balan Adriana , Stamatin Ioan
Published: December 2021

Organic resorcinol–formaldehyde (RF) hydrogels were introduced into a hybrid cation-exchange membrane in order to enhance its following properties: water uptake, thermal stability, and ionic conductivity. This study was aimed to investigate the modifications induced by the RF organic clusters that form a uniform distributed network within the perflourosulfonated acid (PFSA) matrix. RF concentration was controlled by resorcinol and formaldehyde impregnation time using water or ethanol solvents. The specific morphological and structural properties were characterized by atomic force microscopy, UV–Vis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Thermo-gravimetric analysis was employed to study the thermal stability and degradation processes of the composite membranes. Proton conductivity, as a function of relative humidity (RH) at 80 °C, was measured using in-plane four-point characterization technique. Compared to the pristine membrane, the PFSA–RF hybrid membranes showed improved thermal stability at up to 46 °C and higher ionic conductivity for low RF content, especially at low relative humidity, when using ethanol-based solvents. Single fuel cell testing on RF-based membrane–electrode assembly revealed impeccable fuel crossover and power performance at 80 °C and 40% relative humidity, delivering a 76% increase in power density compared to a reference assembled with a pristine membrane and the same catalyst loadings.
The Influence of Sonication Processing Conditions on Electrical and Mechanical Properties of Single and Hybrid Epoxy Nanocomposites Filled with Carbon Nanoparticles
Authors: de Oliveira Matheus Mendes , Forsberg Sven , Selegård Linnéa , Carastan Danilo Justino
Published: December 2021

Graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) and carbon nanotubes (CNT) are used to enhance electrical and mechanical properties of epoxy-based nanocomposites. Despite the evidence of synergetic effects in the hybrid GNP-CNT-epoxy system, there is still a lack of studies that focus on the influence of different dispersion methods on the final properties of these ternary systems. In the present work, direct and indirect ultrasonication methods were used to prepare single- and hybrid-filled GNP-CNT-epoxy nanocomposites, varying the amplitude and time of sonication in order to investigate their effect on electrical and thermomechanical properties. Impedance spectroscopy was combined with rheology and electron microscopy to show that high-power direct sonication tends to degrade electrical conductivity in GNP-CNT-epoxy nanocomposites due to damage caused in the nanoparticles. CNT-filled samples were mostly benefitted by low-power direct sonication, achieving an electrical conductivity of 1.3 × 10−3 S·m−1 at 0.25 wt.% loading, while indirect sonication was not able to properly disperse the CNTs and led to a conductivity of 1.6 ± 1.3 × 10−5. Conversely, specimens filled with 2.5 wt. % of GNP and processed by indirect sonication displayed an electrical conductivity that is up to 4 orders of magnitude higher than when processed by direct sonication, achieving 5.6 × 10−7 S·m−1. The introduction of GNP flakes improved the dispersion state and conductivity in hybrid specimens processed by indirect sonication, but at the same time impaired these properties for high-power direct sonication. It is argued that this contradictory effect is caused by a selective localization of shorter CNTs onto GNPs due to strong π-π interactions when direct sonication is used. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed that the addition of nanofillers improved epoxy’s storage modulus by up to 84%, but this property is mostly insensitive to the different processing parameters. Decrease in crosslinking degree and presence of residual solvent confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, however, diminished the glass transition temperature of the nanocomposites by up to 40% when compared to the neat resin due to plasticization effects.
Printable Alginate Hydrogels with Embedded Network of Halloysite Nanotubes: Effect of Polymer Cross-Linking on Rheological Properties and Microstructure
Authors: Glukhova Svetlana , Molchanov Vyacheslav , Lokshin Boris , Rogachev Andrei , Tsarenko Alexey , Patsaev Timofey , Kamyshinsky Roman , Philippova Olga
Published: December 2021

Rapidly growing 3D printing of hydrogels requires network materials which combine enhanced mechanical properties and printability. One of the most promising approaches to strengthen the hydrogels consists of the incorporation of inorganic fillers. In this paper, the rheological properties important for 3D printability were studied for nanocomposite hydrogels based on a rigid network of percolating halloysite nanotubes embedded in a soft alginate network cross-linked by calcium ions. Particular attention was paid to the effect of polymer cross-linking on these properties. It was revealed that the system possessed a pronounced shear-thinning behavior accompanied by a viscosity drop of 4–5 orders of magnitude. The polymer cross-links enhanced the shear-thinning properties and accelerated the viscosity recovery at rest so that the system could regain 96% of viscosity in only 18 s. Increasing the cross-linking of the soft network also enhanced the storage modulus of the nanocomposite system by up to 2 kPa. Through SAXS data, it was shown that at cross-linking, the junction zones consisting of fragments of two laterally aligned polymer chains were formed, which should have provided additional strength to the hydrogel. At the same time, the cross-linking of the soft network only slightly affected the yield stress, which seemed to be mainly determined by the rigid percolation network of nanotubes and reached 327 Pa. These properties make the alginate/halloysite hydrogels very promising for 3D printing, in particular, for biomedical purposes taking into account the natural origin, low toxicity, and good biocompatibility of both components.
Oxygen-Releasing Composites: A Promising Approach in the Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Lim Dong-Jin , Jang Insoo
Published: December 2021

In diabetes, lower extremity amputation (LEA) is an irreversible diabetic-related complication that easily occurs in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Because DFUs are a clinical outcome of different causes including peripheral hypoxia and diabetic foot infection (DFI), conventional wound dressing materials are often insufficient for supporting the normal wound healing potential in the ulcers. Advanced wound dressing development has recently focused on natural or biocompatible scaffolds or incorporating bioactive molecules. This review directs attention to the potential of oxygenation of diabetic wounds and highlights current fabrication techniques for oxygen-releasing composites and their medical applications. Based on different oxygen-releasable compounds such as liquid peroxides and solid peroxides, for example, a variety of oxygen-releasing composites have been fabricated and evaluated for medical applications. This review provides the challenges and limitations of utilizing current oxygen releasable compounds and provides perspectives on advancing oxygen releasing composites for diabetic-related wounds associated with DFUs.
Synthesis and Coordination Properties of a Water-Soluble Material by Cross-Linking Low Molecular Weight Polyethyleneimine with Armed Cyclotriveratrilene
Authors: Ng Yoke Mooi , Coghi Paolo , Ng Jerome P. L. , Ali Fayaz , Wong Vincent Kam Wai , Coluccini Carmine
Published: December 2021

In this study, a full organic and water-soluble material was synthesized by coupling low molecular weight polyethylenimine (PEI-800) with cyclotriveratrilene (CTV). The water-soluble cross-linked polymer contains hydrophobic holes with a high coordination capability towards different organic drug molecules. The coordinating capability towards hydrophilic drugs (doxorubicin, gatifloxacin and sinomenine) and hydrophobic drugs (camptothecin and celastrol) was analyzed in an aqueous medium by using NMR, UV-Vis and emission spectroscopies. The coordination of drug molecules with the armed CTV unit through hydrophobic interactions was observed. In particular, celastrol exhibited more ionic interactions with the PEI moiety of the hosting system. In the case of doxorubicin, the host–guest detachment was induced by the addition of ammonium chloride, suggesting that the intracellular environment can facilitate the release of the drug molecules.
Collagen Scaffolds Treated by Hydrogen Peroxide for Cell Cultivation
Authors: Nashchekina Yuliya , Nikonov Pavel , Mikhailova Nataliya , Nashchekin Alexey
Published: December 2021

Collagen in the body is exposed to a range of influences, including free radicals, which can lead to a significant change in its structure. Modeling such an effect on collagen fibrils will allow one to get a native structure in vitro, which is important for modern tissue engineering. The aim of this work is to study the effect of free radicals on a solution of hydrogen peroxide with a concentration of 0.006–0.15% on the structure of collagen fibrils in vitro, and the response of cells to such treatment. SEM measurements show a decrease in the diameter of the collagen fibrils with an increase in the concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Such treatment also leads to an increase in the wetting angle of the collagen surface. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy demonstrates a decrease in the signal with wave number 1084 cm−1 due to the detachment of glucose and galactose linked to hydroxylysine, connected to the collagen molecule through the -C-O-C- group. During the first day of cultivating ASCs, MG-63, and A-431 cells, an increase in cell adhesion on collagen fibrils treated with H2O2 (0.015, 0.03%) was observed. Thus the effect of H2O2 on biologically relevant extracellular matrices for the formation of collagen scaffolds was shown.
A Mini-Review on Recent Developments in Anti-Icing Methods
Authors: Kenzhebayeva Adelya , Bakbolat Baglan , Sultanov Fail , Daulbayev Chingis , Mansurov Zulkhair
Published: December 2021

An aggressive impact of the formed ice on the surface of man-made objects can ultimately lead to serious consequences in their work. When icing occurs, the quality and characteristics of equipment, instruments, and building structures deteriorate, which affects the durability of their use. Delays in the adoption of measures against icing endanger the safety of air travel and road traffic. Various methods have been developed to combat de-icing, such as mechanical de-icing, the use of salts, the application of a hydrophobic coating to the surfaces, ultrasonic treatment and electric heating. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in the field of anti-icing and analyze the role of various additives and their operating mechanisms.
Germanium-Titanium-π Polymer Composites as Functional Textiles for Clinical Strategy to Evaluate Blood Circulation Improvement and Sexual Satisfaction
Authors: Juho Yu-Cing , Tang Shou-Hung , Lin Yi-Hsin , Lin Chen-Xi , Liang Tenson , Cherng Juin-Hong , Meng En
Published: December 2021

By continuously enhancing the blood flow, far-infrared (FIR) textile is anticipated to be a potential non-pharmacological therapy in patients with peripheral vascular disorders, for instance, patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis (HD) and experiencing vasculogenic erectile dysfunction (VED). Hence, we manufactured a novel polymer composite, namely, germanium-titanium-π (Ge-Ti-π) textile and aimed to evaluate its characteristics and quality. We also investigated the immediate and long-term effects of the textile on patients with ESRD undergoing HD and experiencing VED. The Ge-Ti-π textile was found to have 0.93 FIR emissivity, 3.05 g/d strength, and 18.98% elongation. The results also showed a 51.6% bacteria reduction and negative fungal growth. On application in patients receiving HD, the Ge-Ti-π textile significantly reduced the limb numbness/pain (p < 0.001) and pain score on the visual analog scale (p < 0.001). Moreover, the Doppler ultrasound assessment data indicated a significant enhancement of blood flow in the right hand after 1 week of Ge-Ti-π textile treatment (p < 0.041). In VED patients, the Ge-Ti-π underpants treatment significantly improved the quality of sexual function and increased the average penile blood flow velocity after 3 months of the treatment. Our study suggests that the Ge-Ti-π textile could be beneficial for patients with blood circulation disorders.
Molecular and Structure–Properties Comparison of an Anionically Synthesized Diblock Copolymer of the PS-b-PI Sequence and Its Hydrogenated or Sulfonated Derivatives
Authors: Politakos Nikolaos , Moutsios Ioannis , Manesi Gkreti-Maria , Artopoiadis Konstantinos , Tsitoni Konstantina , Moschovas Dimitrios , Piryazev Alexey A. , Kotlyarskiy Denis S. , Kortaberria Galder , Ivanov Dimitri A. , Avgeropoulos Apostolos
Published: December 2021

An approach to obtaining various nanostructures utilizing a well-studied polystyrene-b-poly(isoprene) or PS-b-PI diblock copolymer system through chemical modification reactions is reported. The complete hydrogenation and partial sulfonation to the susceptible carbon double bonds of the PI segment led to the preparation of [polystyrene-b-poly(ethylene-alt-propylene)] as well as [polystyrene-b-poly(sulfonated isoprene-co-isoprene)], respectively. The hydrogenation of the polyisoprene block results in enhanced segmental immiscibility, whereas the relative sulfonation induces an amphiphilic character in the final modified material. The successful synthesis of the pristine diblock copolymer through anionic polymerization and the relative chemical modification reactions were verified using several molecular and structural characterization techniques. The thin film structure–properties relationship was investigated using atomic force microscopy under various conditions such as different solvents and annealing temperatures. Small-angle X-ray scattering was employed to identify the different observed nanostructures and their evolution upon thermal annealing.
Nano Drug Delivery Platforms for Dental Application: Infection Control and TMJ Management—A Review
Authors: Lal Abhishek , Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Ahmed Naseer , Maqsood Afsheen , Al-Qaisi Ruba K. , Shrivastava Deepti , Alkhalaf Zainab Ali , Alanazi Amal Mohamed , Alshubrmi Hasna Rasheed , Sghaireen Mohammed G. , Srivastava Kumar Chandan
Published: December 2021

The oral cavity is an intricate environment subjected to various chemical, physical, and thermal injuries. The effectiveness of the local and systemically administered drugs is limited mainly due to their toxicities and poor oral bioavailability that leads to the limited effectiveness of the drugs in the target tissues. To address these issues, nanoparticle drug delivery systems based on metals, liposomes, polymeric particles, and core shells have been developed in recent years. Nano drug delivery systems have applications in the treatment of patients suffering from temporomandibular joint disorders such as preventing degeneration of cartilage in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis and alleviating the pain along with it. The antibacterial dental applications of nano-drug delivery systems such as silver and copper-based nanoparticles include these agents used to arrest dental caries, multiple steps in root canal treatment, and patients suffering from periodontitis. Nanoparticles have been used in adjunct with antifungals to treat oral fungal infections such as candida albicans in denture wearers. Acyclovir being the most commonly used antiviral has been used in combination with nanoparticles against an array of viral infections such as the herpes simplex virus. Nanoparticles based combination agents offer more favorable drug release in a controlled manner along with efficient delivery at the site of action. This review presents an updated overview of the recently developed nanoparticles delivery systems for the management of temporomandibular joint disorders along with the treatment of different oral infections.
Development of a Novel X-ray Compatible 3D-Printed Bone Model to Characterize Different K-Wire Fixation Methods in Support of the Treatment of Pediatric Radius Fractures
Authors: Lamberti Anna Gabriella , Ujfalusi Zoltan , Told Roland , Hanna Dániel , Józsa Gergő , Maróti Péter
Published: December 2021

Additive manufacturing technologies are essential in biomedical modeling and prototyping. Polymer-based bone models are widely used in simulating surgical interventions and procedures. Distal forearm fractures are the most common pediatric fractures, in which the Kirschner wire fixation is the most widely used operative method. However, there is still lingering controversy throughout the published literature regarding the number of wires and sites of insertion. This study aims to critically compare the biomechanical stability of different K-wire fixation techniques. Different osteosyntheses were reconstructed on 189 novel standardized bone models, which were created using 3D printing and molding techniques, using PLA and polyurethane materials, and it has been characterized in terms of mechanical behavior and structure. X-ray imaging has also been performed. The validation of the model was successful: the relative standard deviations (RSD = 100 × SD × mean−1, where RSD is relative standard deviation, SD is the standard deviation) of the mechanical parameters varied between 1.1% (10° torsion; 6.52 Nm ± 0.07 Nm) and 5.3% (5° torsion; 4.33 Nm ± 0.23 Nm). The simulated fractures were fixed using two K-wires inserted from radial and dorsal directions (crossed wire fixation) or both from the radial direction, in parallel (parallel wire fixation). Single-wire fixations with shifted exit points were also included. Additionally, three-point bending tests with dorsal and radial load and torsion tests were performed. We measured the maximum force required for a 5 mm displacement of the probe under dorsal and radial loads (means for crossed wire fixation: 249.5 N and 355.9 N; parallel wire fixation: 246.4 N and 308.3 N; single wire fixation: 115.9 N and 166.5 N). We also measured the torque required for 5° and 10° torsion (which varied between 0.15 Nm for 5° and 0.36 Nm for 10° torsion). The crossed wire fixation provided the most stability during the three-point bending tests. Against torsion, both the crossed and parallel wire fixation were superior to the single-wire fixations. The 3D printed model is found to be a reliable, cost-effective tool that can be used to characterize the different fixation methods, and it can be used in further pre-clinical investigations.
Analysing Powder Injection Moulding of a Helix Geometry Using Soft Tooling
Authors: Basso Alberto , Zhang Yang , Kjeldahl Pløger Jacob , Spangenberg Jon , Hansen Hans Nørgaard
Published: December 2021

Freeform injection moulding is a novel technology for powder injection moulding where a sacrificial 3D printed mould (i.e., a soft tooling) is used as an insert in the injection process. The use of 3D printed moulds enable a higher geometrical design flexibility as compared to the conventional injection moulding process. However, there is still very limited knowledge on how the sacrificial soft tooling material and powder suspension handles the increased geometrical complexity during the process. In this study, a stainless steel powder suspension is injected into a geometrically challenging sacrificial mould (viz. a helix structure) that is produced by vat photopolymerization additive manufacturing. Computed tomography is used to quantify the geometrical precision of the mould both before and after injection. In addition, a new numerical model that considers the suspension feedstock is developed to investigate the powder injection moulding process. The numerical results are found to be in qualitative good agreement with the experimental findings in terms of pinpointing critical areas of the structure, thereby highlighting a new pathway for evaluating sacrificial inserts for powder injection moulding with a high geometrical complexity.
Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Spent Coffee Grounds Oil Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Miladi Malek , Martins António A. , Mata Teresa M. , Vegara Miguel , Pérez-Infantes María , Remmani Rania , Ruiz-Canales Antonio , Núñez-Gómez Dámaris
Published: December 2021

Spent coffee grounds (SCGs) generated in coffee processing for beverages and other products are a very significant organic residue that needs to be properly treated. Waste valorization via oil extraction has the potential to obtain compounds that can be used for producing biodiesel or other high-value products, such as polymers. This work focuses on the ultrasound-assisted extraction of SCG oil using n-hexane as a solvent. Three key process parameters are analyzed: temperature, extraction time, and liquid/solid (L/S) rate of solvent, using a central composite rotatable design (CCRD), an analysis that, to the author’s knowledge, is not yet available in the literature. The data were analyzed using the software StatSoft STATISTICA 13.1 (TIBCO Software Inc., Palo Alto, CA, USA). Results show that all parameters have a statistical influence on the process performance (p < 0.05), being the L/S ratio the most significant, followed by extraction time and temperature. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that the empirical model is a good fit to the experimental data at a 95% confidence level. For the range of conditions considered in this work, the optimal operating conditions for obtaining an oil extraction yield in the range of 12 to 13%wt are a solvent L/S ratio of around 16 mL g−1, for a temperature in the range of 50 to 60 °C, and the longest contact time, limited by the process economics and health and safety issues and also, by the n-hexane boiling temperature.
Antimicrobial Effect of Phytochemicals from Edible Plants
Authors: Hochma Efrat , Yarmolinsky Ludmila , Khalfin Boris , Nisnevitch Marina , Ben-Shabat Shimon , Nakonechny Faina
Published: December 2021

Current strategies of combating bacterial infections are limited and involve the use of antibiotics and preservatives. Each of these agents has generally inadequate efficacy and a number of serious adverse effects. Thus, there is an urgent need for new antimicrobial drugs and food preservatives with higher efficacy and lower toxicity. Edible plants have been used in medicine since ancient times and are well known for their successful antimicrobial activity. Often photosensitizers are present in many edible plants; they could be a promising source for a new generation of drugs and food preservatives. The use of photodynamic therapy allows enhancement of antimicrobial properties in plant photosensitizers. The purpose of this review is to present the verified data on the antimicrobial activities of photodynamic phytochemicals in edible species of the world’s flora, including the various mechanisms of their actions.
Random Forest Regression-Based Machine Learning Model for Accurate Estimation of Fluid Flow in Curved Pipes
Authors: N. Ganesh , Jain Paras , Choudhury Amitava , Dutta Prasun , Kalita Kanak , Barsocchi Paolo
Published: December 2021

In industrial piping systems, turbomachinery, heat exchangers etc., pipe bends are essential components. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD), which is frequently used to analyse the flow behaviour in such systems, provides extremely precise estimates but is computationally expensive. As a result, a computationally efficient method is developed in this paper by leveraging machine learning for such computationally expensive CFD problems. Random forest regression (RFR) is used as the machine learning algorithm in this work. Four different fluid flow characteristics (i.e., axial velocity, x-velocity, y-velocity and z-velocity) are studied in this work. The accuracy of the RFR models is assessed by using a number of statistical metrics such as mean-absolute error (MAE), mean-squared-error (MSE), root-mean-squared-error (RMSE), maximum error (Max.Error) and median error (Med.Error) etc. It is observed that the RFR models can produce considerable cost reductions in computing by surrogating the CFD model. Minor loss in estimation accuracy as compared to the CFD models is observed. While the magnitude of intricate flow characteristics such as the additional vortices are correctly predicted, some error in their location is observed.
Improving the Thermo-Activity and -Stability of Pectate Lyase from Dickeya dadantii DCE-01 for Ramie Degumming
Authors: Xu Huan , Duan Shengwen , Feng Xiangyuan , Yang Qi , Zheng Ke , Peng Yuande , Cheng Lifeng
Published: December 2021

To improve the thermal stability of pectate lyase for ramie degumming, we modified the novel pectate lyase gene (pelG403) derived from the Dickeya dadantii DCE-01 high-efficiency ramie degumming strain by site-directed mutagenesis. Twelve mutants were acquired, wherein a prospective mutant (A129V) showed better enzyme activity and thermal stability. Compared with the wild type (PelG403), the specific enzyme activity and the optimal reaction temperature of A129V in the fermentation broth increased by 20.1%, and 5 °C, respectively. Under the conditions of 55 °C and pH 9.0, the weightlessness rate of ramie raw materials of A129V increased by 6.26%. Therefore, this study successfully improved the enzyme activity and heat resistance of PelG403 in an alkaline environment, which may contribute to the development of enzyme preparations and the elucidation of the mechanism for ramie bio-degumming.
Zn–Al Layered Double Hydroxides Synthesized on Aluminum Foams for Fluoride Removal from Water
Authors: Li Yuliu , Narducci Riccardo , Varone Alessandra , Kaciulis Saulius , Bolli Eleonora , Pizzoferrato Roberto
Published: December 2021

Fluoride excess in water represents an environmental issue and a risk for human health since it can cause several diseases, such as fluorosis, osteoporosis, and damage of the nervous system. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) can be exploited to remove this contaminant from water by taking advantage of their high ion-exchange capability. LDHs are generally mixed with polluted water in the form of powders, which then cause the problem of uneasy separation of the contaminated LDH sludge from the purified liquid. In this work, Zn–Al LDH films were directly grown in situ on aluminum foams that acted both as the reactant and substrate. This method enabled the removal of fluoride ions by simple immersion, with ensuing withdrawal of the foam from the de-contaminated water. Different LDH synthesis methods and aluminum foam types were investigated to improve the adsorption process. The contact time, initial fluoride concentration, adsorbent dosage, and pH were studied as the parameters that affect the fluoride adsorption capacity and efficiency. The highest absorption efficiency of approximately 70% was obtained by using two separate growth methods after four hours, and it effectively reduced the fluoride concentration from 3 mg/L to 1.1 mg/L, which is below the threshold value set by WHO for drinking water.
Toxicological Profile of Biological Environment of Two Elastodontic Devices
Authors: Dinu Stefania , Buzatu Roxana , Macasoi Ioana , Popa Malina , Vlad Cristian Sebastian , Marcovici Iasmina , Pinzaru Iulia , Dehelean Cristina Adriana , Moacă Elena-Alina , Barbu-Tudoran Lucian , Pricop Marius
Published: December 2021

Malocclusion and teething problems are common health problems globally, affecting people of all ages, especially children and adolescents. In addition to the pathophysiological complications associated with orthodontic problems, they also affect the well-being of the individual. Orthodontic appliances are frequently used, even from an early age, and their activity in different biological environments is very varied and incompletely described. Due to these considerations, the purpose of the study was to evaluate the toxicological profile of the biological environment (saliva at three pH values: 3, 7, and 10) of two elastodontic orthodontic appliances: Myobrace (MB) and LM TrainerTM 2 (LMD). In vitro techniques applied were conducted on human keratinocytes to evaluate cell viability (Alamar blue assay) and gene expression real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR technique). In addition, it was assessed the irritating effect on the vascular plexus using as a biological model the chorioallantoic membrane of the hen’s egg by applying the hen’s egg-chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) method. The obtained results showed a decrease in cell viability up to 82% in the case of LMD at pH = 3, a slight increase in mRNA expression for the anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL), and a decrease in mRNA expression for the pro-apoptotic marker (Bad), and any type of toxic change at the capillary level (irritation score being below 0.9). Based on the data obtained, it can be stated that MB and LMD biological environments, at different pH values, present a safe toxicological profile.
Optimizing Recombinant Baculovirus Vector Design for Protein Production in Insect Cells
Authors: Bannach Carina , Buck Daniel Ruiz , Bobby Genna , Graves Leo P. , Li Sainan , Chambers Adam C. , Gan Elizabeth , Arinto-Garcia Raquel , Possee Robert D. , King Linda A.
Published: December 2021

Autographa californica nucleopolyhedrovirus is a very productive expression vector for recombinant proteins in insect cells. Most vectors are based on the polyhedrin gene promoter, which comprises a TAAG transcription initiation motif flanked by 20 base pairs upstream and 47 base pairs downstream before the native ATG. Many transfer vectors also include a short sequence downstream of the ATG, in which case this sequence is mutated to ATT to abolish translation. However, the ATT sequence, or AUU in the mRNA, is known to be leaky. If a target-coding region is placed in the frame with the AUU, then some products will comprise a chimeric molecule with part of the polyhedrin protein. In this study, we showed that if AUU is placed in the frame with a Strep tag and eGFP coding region, we could identify a protein product with both sequences present. Further work examined if alternative codons in lieu of AUG might reduce translation initiation further. We found that AUA was used slightly more efficiently than AUU, whereas AUC was the least efficient at initiating translation. The use of this latter codon suggested that there might also be a slight improvement of protein yield if this is incorporated into expression vectors.
Pathways of Mycotoxin Occurrence in Meat Products: A Review
Authors: Pleadin Jelka , Lešić Tina , Milićević Dragan , Markov Ksenija , Šarkanj Bojan , Vahčić Nada , Kmetič Ivana , Zadravec Manuela
Published: December 2021

Documented cases of mycotoxin occurrence in meat products call for further research into potential contamination sources, especially given an ever more increasing consumption of these nutritionally rich products. These foodstuffs can be contaminated with mycotoxins through three pathways: contaminated spices and other raw materials, mycotoxin-producing moulds present on the surface of dry-cured meat products, and carry-over effect from farm animals exposed to contaminated feed. In order to establish meat products’ mycotoxin contamination more precisely, the concentrations of all mycotoxins of relevance for these products should be determined. This manuscript reviews data on major mycotoxins present in different types of meat products, and discusses the contamination pathways, contamination levels and control & preventative measures.
Applicability of Constitutive Models to Describing the Compressibility of Mining Backfill: A Comparative Study
Authors: Wang Ruofan , Zeng Feitao , Li Li
Published: December 2021

The compressibility of mining backfill governs its resistance to the closure of surrounding rock mass, which should be well reflected in numerical modeling. In most numerical simulations of backfill, the Mohr–Coulomb elasto-plastic model is used, but is constantly criticized for its poor representativeness to the mechanical response of geomaterials. Finding an appropriate constitutive model to better represent the compressibility of mining backfill is critical and necessary. In this paper, Mohr–Coulomb elasto-plastic model, double-yield model, and Soft Soil model are briefly recalled. Their applicability to describing the backfill compressibility is then assessed by comparing numerical and experimental results of one-dimensional consolidation and consolidated drained triaxial compression tests made on lowly cemented backfills available in the literature. The comparisons show that the Soft Soil model can be used to properly describe the experimental results while the application of the Mohr–Coulomb model and double-yield model shows poor description on the compressibility of the backfill submitted to large and cycle loading. A further application of the Soft Soil model to the case of a backfilled stope overlying a sill mat shows stress distributions close to those obtained by applying the Mohr–Coulomb model when rock wall closure is absent. After excavating the underlying stope, rock wall closure is generated and exercises compression on the overlying backfill. Compared to the results obtained by applying the Soft Soil model, an application of the Mohr–Coulomb model tends to overestimate the stresses in the backfill when the mine depth is small and underestimate the stresses when the mine depth is large due to the poor description of fill compressibility. The Soft Soil model is recommended to describe the compressibility of uncemented or lightly cemented backfill with small cohesions under external compressions associated with rock wall closure.
Special Issue “Sustainable Remediation Processes Based on Zeolites”
Authors: Belviso Claudia
Published: December 2021

Zeolites are microporous tectosilicates characterized by a three-dimensional network of tetrahedral (Si, Al)O4 units with the general formula: Mx+Ly2+[Al(x+2y)Si1−(x+2y)O2n]·mH2O where M+ and L2+ are monovalent and divalent cations [...]
Bioaccumulation of Fluoride in Plants and Its Microbially Assisted Remediation: A Review of Biological Processes and Technological Performance
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Sinha Rama , Sharma Pushpa Kumari , Ivy Nishita , Kumar Pawan , Kant Nishi , Jha Aprajita , Jha Prakash Kumar , Gupta Pankaj Kumar , Sharma Prabhakar , Singh Rakesh Kumar , Singh Rajeev Pratap , Ghosh Ashok , Prasad P. V. Vara
Published: December 2021

Fluoride is widely found in soil–water systems due to anthropogenic and geogenic activities that affect millions worldwide. Fluoride ingestion results in chronic and acute toxicity, including skeletal and dental fluorosis, neurological damage, and bone softening in humans. Therefore, this review paper summarizes biological processes for fluoride remediation, i.e., bioaccumulation in plants and microbially assisted systems. Bioremediation approaches for fluoride removal have recently gained prominence in removing fluoride ions. Plants are vulnerable to fluoride accumulation in soil, and their growth and development can be negatively affected, even with low fluoride content in the soil. The microbial bioremediation processes involve bioaccumulation, biotransformation, and biosorption. Bacterial, fungal, and algal biomass are ecologically efficient bioremediators. Most bioremediation techniques are laboratory-scale based on contaminated solutions; however, treatment of fluoride-contaminated wastewater at an industrial scale is yet to be investigated. Therefore, this review recommends the practical applicability and sustainability of microbial bioremediation of fluoride in different environments.
Research on Collaborative Efficiency Evaluation of Complex Supplier Network under the Background of Intelligent Manufacturing
Authors: Zhang Minghao , Shi Li , Zhuo Xiangzhi , Liu Yuan
Published: December 2021

Supplier network collaborative efficiency evaluation is important content in the transformation and upgrading of intelligent manufacturing enterprises. Aiming at the shortcomings of existing methods, this paper proposes a new method to evaluate the collaborative efficiency of internal members of a complex supplier network based on complex network theory. Based on the analysis of the characteristics of the complex supplier network, from the perspective of the system, the macro supplier network is divided into multiple multi-level supplier micro subsystems with manufacturing enterprises as the core. In order to reasonably quantify the collaboration relationship of members in the subsystem structure model, the collaboration entropy is introduced as a measurement tool, and combined with the hesitation fuzzy scoring function, and the collaborative evaluation model of the complex supplier network is constructed. By quantifying the collaboration relationship among the members in the subsystem and summarizing it step by step and iteratively, the collaborative efficiency evaluation of the complex supplier network from local to overall is realized. Finally, taking a large battery manufacturing enterprise in China as an example, the proposed method is used to calculate the collaboration entropy, collaborative efficiency, and collaboration ratio of members at different supplier network levels. The results verify the effectiveness of the model.
Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials for the Removal of Pharmaceuticals from Wastewater: A Critical Review
Authors: González-Poggini Sergio , Rosenkranz Andreas , Colet-Lagrille Melanie
Published: December 2021

The removal of pharmaceuticals from wastewater is critical due to their considerable risk on ecosystems and human health. Additionally, they are resistant to conventional chemical and biological remediation methods. Two-dimensional nanomaterials are a promising approach to face this challenge due to their combination of high surface areas, high electrical conductivities, and partially optical transparency. This review discusses the state-of-the-art concerning their use as adsorbents, oxidation catalysts or photocatalysts, and electrochemical catalysts for water treatment purposes. The bibliographic search bases upon academic databases including articles published until August 2021. Regarding adsorption, high removal capacities (>200 mg g−1) and short equilibrium times (<30 min) are reported for molybdenum disulfide, metal-organic frameworks, MXenes, and graphene oxide/magnetite nanocomposites, attributed to a strong adsorbate-adsorbent chemical interaction. Concerning photocatalysis, MXenes and carbon nitride heterostructures show enhanced charge carriers separation, favoring the generation of reactive oxygen species to degrade most pharmaceuticals. Peroxymonosulfate activation via pure or photo-assisted catalytic oxidation is promising to completely degrade many compounds in less than 30 min. Future work should be focused on the exploration of greener synthesis methods, regeneration, and recycling at the end-of-life of two-dimensional materials towards their successful large-scale production and application.
Enhanced Separation of Oil and Solids in Oily Sludge by Froth Flotation at Normal Temperature
Authors: Li Wenying , Lin Hongyang , Yang Yang , Shang Zhenxiao , Li Qiuhong , Ma Yanfei , Liu Aiju , Jiang Man
Published: December 2021

Oily sludge (OS) contains a large number of hazardous materials, and froth flotation can achieve oil recovery and non-hazardous disposal of OS simultaneously. The influence of flotation parameters on OS treatment and the flotation mechanism were studied. OS samples were taken from Shengli Oilfield in May 2017 (OSS) and May 2020 (OST), respectively. Results showed that Na2SiO3 was the suitable flotation reagent treating OSS and OST, which could reduce the viscosity between oil and solids. Increasing flotation time, impeller speed and the ratio of liquid to OS could enhance the pulp shear effect, facilitate the formation of bubble and reduce pulp viscosity, respectively. Under the optimized parameters, the oil content of OST residue could be reduced to 1.2%, and that of OSS could be reduced to 0.6% because of OSS with low heavy oil components and wide solid particle size distribution. Orthogonal experimental results showed that the impeller speed was the most significant factor of all parameters for OSS and OST, and it could produce shear force to decrease the intensity of C-H bonds and destabilize the OS. The oil content of residue could be reduced effectively in the temperature range of 24–45 °C under the action of high impeller speed.