bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of 28‐day early‐life exposure to triphenyl phosphate (TPhP) on odor preference and sexual behavior in female rats
Authors: Nakayama Airi , Hattori Tatsuya , Isobe Anna , Kobayashi Shohei , Suzuki Go , Takigami Hidetaka , Kawaguchi Maiko
Published: June 2020

Many chemical substances are detectable in house dust, and they are consequently taken into our bodies via the mouth and nose. Triphenyl phosphate (TPhP), a flame retardant that has an estrogen‐like effect in vitro, is present in house dust at high concentrations. Estrogen exposure during development has significant influences on reproductive behavior in rodents, and its effects persist until maturity. In the present study, we investigated the effect of early life exposure to TPhP on the reproductive behavior of female rats. Oral treatment with TPhP (25 or 250 mg/kg), ethinyl estradiol (EE; 15 μg/kg) as a positive control, or sesame oil as a negative control, were given to female rats (from birth to 28 days of age). The 8‐week‐old rats were bilaterally ovariectomized. At 12–15 weeks of age, the rats were subjected to odor preference and sexual behavior tests. In the odor preference test, the oil group showed significantly higher preference for male odor than female odor, but the low‐dose TPhP treatment group lost the preference for male odor, indicating a possible outcome of early life TPhP exposure on sexual recognition. In the sexual behavior test, both the EE and TPhP treatment groups displayed significantly less proceptive behavior. These results suggest that early life exposure to TPhP disturbs the normal sexual behavior of female rats.
Neurogenic Heterotopic Ossifications Develop Independently of Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor and Neutrophils
Authors: Tseng Hsu-Wen , Kulina Irina , Salga Marjorie , Fleming Whitney , Vaquette Cedryck , Genêt François , Levesque Jean-Pierre , Alexander Kylie A
Published: June 2020

Neurogenic heterotopic ossifications (NHOs) are incapacitating heterotopic bones in periarticular muscles that frequently develop following traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries (SCI). Using our unique model of SCI-induced NHO, we have previously established that mononucleated phagocytes infiltrating injured muscles are required to trigger NHO via the persistent release of the pro-inflammatory cytokine oncostatin M (OSM). Because neutrophils are also a major source of OSM, we investigated whether neutrophils also play a role in NHO development after SCI. We now show that surgery transiently increased granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) levels in blood of operated mice, and that G-CSF receptor mRNA is expressed in the hamstrings of mice developing NHO. However, mice defective for the G-CSF receptor gene Csf3r, which are neutropenic, have unaltered NHO development after SCI compared to C57BL/6 control mice. Because the administration of recombinant human G-CSF (rhG-CSF) has been trialed after SCI to increase neuroprotection and neuronal regeneration and has been shown to suppress osteoblast function at the endosteum of skeletal bones in human and mice, we investigated the impact of a 7-day rhG-CSF treatment on NHO development. rhG-CSF treatment significantly increased neutrophils in the blood, bone marrow, and injured muscles. However, there was no change in NHO development compared to saline-treated controls. Overall, our results establish that unlike monocytes/macrophages, neutrophils are dispensable for NHO development following SCI, and rhG-CSF treatment post-SCI does not impact NHO development. Therefore, G-CSF treatment to promote neuroregeneration is unlikely to adversely promote or affect NHO development in SCI patients. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Runx2 Regulates Mouse Tooth Root Development Via Activation of WNT Inhibitor NOTUM
Authors: Wen Quan , Jing Junjun , Han Xia , Feng Jifan , Yuan Yuan , Ma Yuanyuan , Chen Shuo , Ho Thach-Vu , Chai Yang
Published: June 2020

Progenitor cells are crucial in controlling organ morphogenesis. Tooth development is a well-established model for investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate organogenesis. Despite advances in our understanding of how tooth crown formation is regulated, we have limited understanding of tooth root development. Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) is a well-known transcription factor in osteogenic differentiation and early tooth development. However, the function of RUNX2 during tooth root formation remains unknown. We revealed in this study that RUNX2 is expressed in a subpopulation of GLI1+ root progenitor cells, and that loss of Runx2 in these GLI1+ progenitor cells and their progeny results in root developmental defects. Our results provide in vivo evidence that Runx2 plays a crucial role in tooth root development and in regulating the differentiation of root progenitor cells. Furthermore, we identified that Gli1, Pcp4, NOTUM, and Sfrp2 are downstream targets of Runx2 by integrating bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing analyses. Specifically, ablation of Runx2 results in downregulation of WNT inhibitor NOTUM and upregulation of canonical WNT signaling in the odontoblastic site, which disturbs normal odontoblastic differentiation. Significantly, exogenous NOTUM partially rescues the impaired root development in Runx2 mutant molars. Collectively, our studies elucidate how Runx2 achieves functional specificity in regulating the development of diverse organs and yields new insights into the network that regulates tooth root development. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
MORPHEUS: An automated tool for unbiased and reproducible cell morphometry
Authors: Ruffinatti Federico Alessandro , Genova Tullio , Mussano Federico , Munaron Luca
Published: June 2020

Here we present a new Fiji/ImageJ2 plugin called Multiparametric Morphometric Analysis of EUcaryotic cellS (MORPHEUS), designed for the automated evaluation of cell morphometry from images acquired by fluorescence microscopy. MORPHEUS works with sampling distributions to learn—in an unsupervised manner and by a nonparametric approach—how to recognize the cells suitable for subsequent analysis. Afterward, the algorithm performs the evaluation of the most relevant cell‐shape descriptors over the full set of detected cells. Optionally, also the extraction of nucleus features and a double‐scale analysis of orientation can be performed. The whole algorithm is implemented as a one‐click procedure, thus minimizing the user's intervention. By reducing biases and errors of human origin, MORPHEUS is intended to be a useful tool to enhance reproducibility in the bioimage analysis.
Identification of potential technologies for 1,4‐Butanediol production using prospecting methodology
Authors: Silva Ramon Geraldo Campos , Ferreira Tatiana Felix , Borges Élcio Ribeiro
Published: June 2020

1,4‐Butanediol (1,4‐BDO) is a four‐carbon diol used for industrial applications such as organic solvents, and the production of adhesives, fibers and polyurethanes. 1,4‐BDO currently is produced through several petrochemical routes: hydrogenation of maleic anhydride, isomerization of propylene oxide, acetoxylation of butadiene, and the reaction between formaldehyde and acetylene. The current trends in 1,4‐BDO production involve the utilization of renewable sources such as biomass. In this context, the present study aimed to identify promising technologies of 1,4‐BDO production through prospecting methodology based on the analyses of patents and scientific article, describing the most relevant aspects of those emerging technologies. An increasing amount of 1,4‐BDO production focused on biotechnological routes has been reported, with the US heavily involved in the development of new technologies. This study tracked three promising technologies which have potential for application in a biorefinery context because those processes involve (i) production of 1,4‐BDO from sugars, classified herein as the biotechnological route; (ii) production of intermediates from sugar fermentation followed by catalytic conversion into 1,4‐BDO, classified herein as the hybrid route, and (iii) furan/furfural conversion into 1,4‐BDO. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Deletion of 2‐aminoadipic semialdehyde synthase limits metabolite accumulation in cell and mouse models for glutaric aciduria type 1
Authors: Leandro João , Dodatko Tetyana , DeVita Robert J. , Chen Hongjie , Stauffer Brandon , Yu Chunli , Houten Sander M.
Published: June 2020

Glutaric aciduria type 1 (GA1) is an inborn error of lysine degradation characterized by acute encephalopathy that is caused by toxic accumulation of lysine degradation intermediates. We investigated the efficacy of substrate reduction through inhibition of 2‐aminoadipic semialdehyde synthase (AASS), an enzyme upstream of the defective glutaryl‐CoA dehydrogenase (GCDH), in a cell line and mouse model of GA1. We show that loss of AASS function in GCDH‐deficient HEK‐293 cells leads to an approximately fivefold reduction in the established GA1 clinical biomarker glutarylcarnitine. In the GA1 mouse model, deletion of Aass leads to a 4.3‐, 3.8‐, and 3.2‐fold decrease in the glutaric acid levels in urine, brain, and liver, respectively. Parallel decreases were observed in urine and brain 3‐hydroxyglutaric acid levels, and plasma, urine, and brain glutarylcarnitine levels. These in vivo data demonstrate that the saccharopine pathway is the main source of glutaric acid production in the brain and periphery of a mouse model for GA1, and support the notion that pharmacological inhibition of AASS may represent an attractive strategy to treat GA1.
Brain Oxygen Extraction Is Differentially Altered by Alzheimer's and Vascular Diseases
Authors: Jiang Dengrong , Lin Zixuan , Liu Peiying , Sur Sandeepa , Xu Cuimei , Hazel Kaisha , Pottanat George , Darrow Jacqueline , Pillai Jay J. , Yasar Sevil , Rosenberg Paul , Moghekar Abhay , Albert Marilyn , Lu Hanzhang
Published: June 2020

Background

Alzheimer's disease and vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), as well as their concurrence, represent the most common types of cognitive dysfunction. Treatment strategies for these two conditions are quite different; however, there exists a considerable overlap in their clinical manifestations, and most biomarkers reveal similar abnormalities between these two conditions.

Purpose

To evaluate the potential of cerebral oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) as a biomarker for differential diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and VCI. We hypothesized that in Alzheimer's disease OEF will be reduced (decreased oxygen consumption due to decreased neural activity), while in vascular diseases OEF will be elevated (increased oxygen extraction due to abnormally decreased blood flow).

Study Type

Prospective cross‐sectional.

Population

Sixty‐five subjects aged 52–89 years, including 33 mild cognitive impairment (MCI), 7 dementia, and 25 cognitively normal subjects.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T T2‐relaxation‐under‐spin‐tagging (TRUST) and fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery imaging (FLAIR).

Assessment

OEF, consensus diagnoses of cognitive impairment, vascular risk factors (such as hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, smoking, and obesity), cognitive assessments, and cerebrospinal fluid concentration of amyloid and tau were assessed.

Statistical Tests

Multiple linear regression analyses of OEF with diagnostic category (normal, MCI, or dementia), vascular risks, cognitive performance, amyloid and tau pathology.

Results

When evaluating the entire group, OEF was found to be lower with more severe cognitive impairment (β = −2.70 ± 1.15, T = −2.34, P = 0.02), but was higher with greater vascular risk factors (β = 1.36 ± 0.55, T = 2.48, P = 0.02). Further investigation of the subgroup of participants with low vascular risks (N = 44) revealed that lower OEF was associated with worse cognitive performance (β = 0.04 ± 0.01, T = 3.27, P = 0.002) and greater amyloid burden (β = 92.12 ± 41.23, T = 2.23, P = 0.03). Among cognitively impaired individuals (N = 40), higher OEF was associated with greater vascular risk factors (β = 2.19 ± 0.71, T = 3.08, P = 0.004).

Data Conclusion

These findings suggest that OEF is differentially affected by Alzheimer's disease and VCI pathology and may be useful in etiology‐based diagnosis of cognitive impairment.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3 J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2020;52:1829–1837.
Molecular typing and genomic characteristic of human adenoviruses in Datong, Northern China
Authors: Ji Tianxing , Liu Ying , Li Yaqing , Khan Shahzad Akbar , Zhou Qiang , Chen Bo , Lin Zhen , Wang Xingchen , Ye Xianmiao , Zheng Xuehua , Chen Ling , Feng Liqiang
Published: June 2020

The molecular prevalence of human adenoviruses (HAdVs) in Datong city and molecular evolution of HAdV‐C species is still obscure. Here, we explored the molecular prevalence of HAdVs by simultaneous sequencing of hexon and fiber. Then, the penton gene fragments of HAdV‐C species were determined by sequencing. Finally, genomic and proteotyping analysis were performed for exploration of molecular evolution of unique HAdV‐6. Our results showed that dominant molecular types of HAdVs were HAdV‐3, HAdV‐2, and HAdV‐1 based on the hexon and fiber genotype. Among H2F2 isolates, P1H2F2 was most common, followed by P2H2F2 and HAdV‐89. The clinical symptoms of HAdV‐1 or HAdV‐2 infected patients were more severe than HAdV‐3 infected patients, the prognosis of HAdV‐1, HAdV‐2, and HAdV‐3 infected patients was indifference. Genomic and proteotyping analysis demonstrated that DT15 was different from HAdV‐6 prototype, with high‐discrepant sequences localized in the E3 region. In conclusion, HAdV‐1 and HAdV‐2 have a high affinity to infect younger children and cause more severe symptoms than HAdV‐3. The E3 gene of HAdV‐C species was considered as highly recombination and mutation region.
An assessment of early 20th century Antarctic pressure reconstructions using historical observations
Authors: Fogt Ryan L. , Belak Connor P. , Jones Julie M. , Slivinski Laura C. , Compo Gilbert P.
Published: June 2020

While gridded seasonal pressure reconstructions poleward of 60°S extending back to 1905 have been recently completed, their skill has not been assessed prior to 1958. To provide a more thorough evaluation of the skill and performance in the early 20th century, these reconstructions are compared to other gridded datasets, historical data from early Antarctic expeditions, ship records, and temporary bases. Overall, the comparison confirms that the reconstruction uncertainty of 2–4 hPa (evaluated after 1979) over the Southern Ocean is a valid estimate of the reconstruction error in the early 20th century. Over the interior and near the coast of Antarctica, direct comparisons with historical data are challenged by elevation‐based reductions to sea level pressure. In a few cases, a simple linear adjustment of the reconstruction to sea level matches the historical data well, but in other cases, the differences remain greater than 10 hPa. Despite these large errors, comparisons with continuous multi‐season observations demonstrate that aspects of the interannual variability are often still captured, suggesting that the reconstructions have skill representing variations on this timescale, even if it is difficult to determine how well they capture the mean pressure at these higher elevations. Additional comparisons with various 20th‐century reanalysis products demonstrate the value of assimilating the historical observations in these datasets, which acts to substantially reduce the reanalysis ensemble spread, and bring the reanalysis ensemble mean within the reconstruction and observational uncertainty.
Complexity of temperature‐dependent Raman spectra and phonons properties on the example of carbon nanotubes thin films
Authors: Gertych A.P. , Czerniak‐Łosiewicz K. , Żerańska‐Chudek K. , Dużyńska A. , Zdrojek M. , Judek J.
Published: June 2020

We examine the interplay between intrinsic phonon properties, the variability of material properties, and instrumental uncertainty reflected in temperature‐dependent Raman spectra of inhomogeneous thin films made of two types of carbon nanotubes (metallic and semiconducting), employing statistical Raman mapping. First, we show that the contribution of temperature to Raman peaks properties representing given phonons depends on how the heat is delivered to the sample—global versus local laser heating. We also show that the variability of Raman peaks positions and widths is not negligible and can be separated into instrumental uncertainty and intrinsic material contribution. Finally, we discuss how temperature can affect different correlations and trends in Raman experiments (e.g., the influence of incident laser power on Raman temperature coefficient). Our findings can be useful for improving the reliability of Raman study for various classes of materials, including exfoliated 2D materials, free‐standing thin films made of 2D flakes, or even bulk materials—not only carbon‐based.
Green ultrasound‐assisted processing for extending the shelf‐life of prebiotic‐rich strawberry juices
Authors: Cassani Lucía , Tomadoni Bárbara , del Rosario Moreira María
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Adding value to conventional fruit juices by including prebiotic compounds into their formulation and preserving them using non‐thermal, eco‐friendly and safe technologies represent interesting and strategic approaches to diversify healthy and innovative food products. In this context, the effect of ultrasound‐assisted processing (for 15 and 30 min, 40 kHz, 180 W) on microbiological, physicochemical, nutritional and sensory quality of prebiotic‐rich strawberry juices was investigated during storage (14 days, 5 °C).

RESULTS

Compared to untreated samples, the applied preservation treatments enhanced the microbiological and nutritional quality of samples by significantly reducing native microflora counts (reductions up to 1 log CFU mL−1 at day 14) and increasing the total phenolic content (by more than 25% in comparison to controls at day 14) leading to higher antioxidant capacity of prebiotic‐rich strawberry juices. Ultrasound processing and prebiotic enrichment had no negative effect on sensory attributes of enriched samples, suggesting that this non‐thermal technique successfully retained the fresh‐like attributes of strawberry juices during their shelf‐life, contributing to the good sensory stability of juices. In addition, ultrasound treatments had no detrimental impact on physicochemical quality and ascorbic acid content of enriched samples, showing similar stability to control samples during storage.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our results, ultrasound processing appears to be a promising non‐thermal technique for ensuring a stable product from both microbiological and sensory points of view with improved antioxidant capacity and unaltered physicochemical quality while offering a healthier, nutritive and valuable food alternative. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation, characterization and antibacterial mechanism of the chitosan coatings modified by Ag/ZnO microspheres
Authors: Wei Xuqing , Li Qiuying , Wu Chaoling , Sun Tong , Li Xuepeng
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

To improve the physicochemical and antibacterial properties of coatings, the chitosan (CS) coatings were respectively prepared by a casting method with zinc oxide (ZnO) and silver (Ag)/ZnO microspheres as modifiers. The chemical structures and micromorphology of ZnO, Ag/ZnO microspheres and CS coatings were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. Furthermore, using the dominant spoilage bacteria of aquatic products, Shewanella putrefaciens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as objects, the antibacterial activities and mechanism of the CS coatings were investigated.

RESULTS

The results show that ZnO and Ag/ZnO microspheres are dispersed homogeneously in the CS coatings. After modified by ZnO and Ag/ZnO microspheres, the mechanical properties and antibacterial abilities of the CS coatings are improved, and that of 0.5% Ag/ZnO‐CS coating is the optimal. For pure CS coating, the bacterial cell membrane is damaged slightly because of the electrostatic interaction between NH3+ of CS and the negative charge on bacterial surface. After treated by ZnO–CS composite coating, the bacterial cell membrane is destroyed badly on account of the earlier‐mentioned ion interaction and disturbing the synthesis of high molecular weight total protein.

CONCLUSION

With regard to Ag/ZnO–CS composite coating, the bacterial cell membrane is damaged seriously and cell contents are completely released due to ion interaction, disturbing the synthesis of high molecular weight total protein and low molecular weight membrane protein. Hence, Ag/ZnO–CS composite coatings are antimicrobial materials and food preservative materials with great potential application. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Clinical Manifestations of Trauma Exposure in Fibromyalgia: The Role of Anxiety in the Association Between Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Fibromyalgia Status
Authors: Miró Elena , Martínez M. Pilar , Sánchez Ana I. , Cáliz Rafael
Published: June 2020

Little research has investigated how traumatic experiences relate to fibromyalgia (FM). We explored the presence of trauma exposure in a sample of Spanish participants with FM and examined the associations between (a) the number and type of traumatic experiences and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and (b) the severity of clinical manifestations in FM, testing for possible mediation models. Participants were 173 FM patients and 53 healthy controls aged 24 to 66 years. Traumatic event type (physical trauma, physical and sexual abuse, psychological trauma), PTSD symptoms, pain intensity, sleep disturbance, anxiety, depression, coping style, and daily functioning were evaluated via self‐report. Fibromyalgia patients reported a higher percentage of trauma exposure than controls, more traumatic experiences (mainly emotional and physical trauma), and more PTSD symptoms, Hedges’ gs/Cohen's ds = 0.42–0.76. Most FM patients reported having experienced their most distressing traumatic experience and PTSD symptoms before FM diagnosis. PTSD symptom severity was associated with more pain, sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, coping style, and functional impairment, rs = .23–.33, ps = .025–.008. A multiple mediation analysis showed a significant indirect effect of anxiety in the association between PTSD symptoms and daily functioning. In a subset of FM patients, PTSD symptoms were associated with major clinical symptoms. The results suggest future research should explore the effectiveness of trauma‐focused therapy compared to standard cognitive behavioral therapy for these patients.
Does the Expiratory Disproportion Index Remain Predictive of Airway Stenosis in Obese Patients?
Authors: Calamari Kevin , Politano Stephen , Matrka Laura
Published: June 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

The expiratory disproportion index (EDI) is the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 second divided by peak expiratory flow rate multiplied by 100. An elevated EDI (>50) can help differentiate upper airway stenosis from other dyspnea etiologies, but this has not been verified when considering body habitus. We hypothesize that the predictive value of elevated EDI in diagnosing airway stenosis will be lower in obese patients as compared to nonobese patients.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Patients >18 years old with recorded pulmonary function test values, body mass index (BMI), and airway imaging were reviewed retrospectively from January 2011 to October 2018. EDI was recorded for four cohorts: nonobese and nonstenotic, obese and nonstenotic, nonobese and stenotic, and obese and stenotic, to determine the mean EDI and the sensitivity and specificity of an elevated EDI.

Results

Mean EDI values were 66.53 ± 17.66 and 49.55 ± 2.04 in the nonobese stenotic and nonstenotic groups, respectively (P < .01). They were 58.00 ± 10.79 and 45.02 ± 1.42 in the obese stenotic and nonstenotic groups, respectively (P < .01). At a threshold of >50, EDI had a sensitivity of 83.3% and specificity of 56.2% in differentiating between stenotic and nonstenotic cases in the nonobese cohort and 50.0% and 71.9% in the obese cohort.

Conclusions

As previously established, mean EDI values were significantly different in stenotic and nonstenotic patients in both BMI cohorts. However, at the established threshold of >50, EDI was not as sensitive at identifying stenotic cases in obese patients as in nonobese patients. This suggests that the EDI remains useful in obese patients when elevated but should not be relied upon to rule out stenosis.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:606–609, 2021
Evaluation of beneficial and inhibitory effects of nitrate on nodulation and nitrogen fixation in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)
Authors: Jiang Yunfei , MacLean Dustin E. , Perry Gregory E. , Marsolais Frédéric , Hill Brett , Pauls K. Peter
Published: June 2020

The effects of applied nitrate on symbiotic nitrogen fixation in legumes are complex. Both inhibition and promotion of nodulation by nitrate have been observed in a dose‐dependent manner. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of nitrate at different concentrations on root nodulation in different genotypes in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris). Six genotypes were inoculated with the same rhizobial strain and grown hydroponically in growth pouches in a growth chamber and exposed to six nitrate concentrations, including 0, 2.5, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mM for 4 weeks. The tested genotypes included three recombinant inbred lines (RILs, 25, 46, and 70) that differed in their responses to nitrogen (based on observations of one field growing season), their parents (Mist and Sanilac—registered varieties), which are different in N‐fixing abilities, and one nonnodulating mutant (R99). Our results showed that small amounts of nitrate (2.5 and 5 mM) promoted nodule formation and increased nodule biomass, compared with plants in the 0 nitrate control treatment. In contrast, nitrate concentrations over 10 mM inhibited nodulation, resulting in reductions in nodule number and nodule biomass. Nodulation was completely inhibited by 15‐mM nitrate in all the genotypes. Regression analyses indicated that 5‐mM nitrate is the optimum concentration for promoting nodulation as measured by the total number of nodules formed, the number of effective nodules formed, and the nodule biomass formed. In contrast, nitrogen fixation was inhibited by all levels of nitrate. No genotypic differences were observed in nodulation among the three RILs and their parental cultivars, but all were significantly different than R99, a nonnodulating mutant.
Phospholipid Polymer Hydrogel Matrices with Dually Immobilized Cytokines for Accelerating Secretion of the Extracellular Matrix by Encapsulated Cells
Authors: Zhang Ren , Teramura Yuji , Fukazawa Kyoko , Ishihara Kazuhiko
Published: June 2020

Construction of 3D tissues by various types of cells with specific characteristics is an important and fundamental technology in tissue reconstruction medicine and animal‐free diagnosis system. To do so, an excellent extracellular matrix (ECM) is needed for encapsulation of cells and maintaining cell activity. Spontaneously forming hydrogel matrix is used by complexation between two water‐soluble polymers, 2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine polymer bearing phenylboronic acid groups and poly(vinyl alcohol). Two cytokines for cell proliferation are immobilized in the hydrogel matrix to control the activities of the encapsulated cells. The cytokine‐immobilized hydrogel matrix can encapsulate both L929 fibroblasts and normal human dermal fibroblasts under mild condition. The physical properties of the hydrogel matrix can follow the proliferation process of the encapsulated cells. The encapsulated cells secrete ECM in the polymer hydrogel networks upon 3D culturing for 7 days. Consequently, the tissue‐mimicking ECM hybrid hydrogels are fabricated successfully.
Construction of Chlorine Labeled ZnO–Chitosan Loaded Cellulose Nanofibrils Film with Quick Antibacterial Performance and Prominent UV Stability
Authors: Ma Wei , Li Lin , Xiao Xintong , Du Haishun , Ren Xuehong , Zhang Xinyu , Huang Tung‐Shi
Published: June 2020

In this study, novel “green” and highly stable biocidal materials composed of cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) and ZnO–chitosan (ZnO–CS) hybrids are constructed by combing vacuum filtration and heat‐press processing without the use of any organic solvent. CNF/ZnO–CS films are soaked in a 10% sodium hypochlorite aqueous solution to endow antibacterial activity. The chlorinated CNF/ZnO–CS samples and chlorinated CNF/ZnO‐CS (CNF/ZnO‐CS‐Cl) possess quick antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli within 30 min of contact compared with CNF and CNF/ZnO–CS controls. The addition of ZnO endows the films with remarkable UV light stability. After exposure to a UV chamber for 24 h, the chlorine loadings on the prepared samples decrease to 0.13%, where 76% of the chlorine loss can be regained after rechlorination. Furthermore, cytotoxicity evaluations reveal the feasibility of the films for in vitro applications. The prepared rechargeable CNF/ZnO–CS–Cl films will have many promising antibacterial applications.
Multifunctional and Efficient Air Filtration: A Natural Nanofilter Prepared with Zein and Polyvinyl Alcohol
Authors: Li Ke , Li Chuanming , Tian Huafeng , Yuan Li , Xiang Aimin , Wang Chaoyang , Li Jinlong , Rajulu A. Varada
Published: June 2020

Nanofibers prepared by electrospinning technology possess large specific surface area and adjustable fiber diameter. Zein is a hydrophobic plant protein that can interact with pollutants in the air. In this work, using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the auxiliary spinning polymer, zein based nanofiber materials are prepared for air filtration by varying zein/PVA ratio as well as the alcoholysis degree. With the increase of zein content, the diameter of nanofibers decreases gradually, and the nanofibers prepared by PVA with low alcoholysis degree exhibit better micromorphology. The zein based nanofibers prepared after denaturation of zein protein can interact with different types of pollutants. In addition, for the nanofibers prepared by PVA with different alcoholysis degree, the filtration efficiency increases with the increase of zein content when absorbing air pollution particles with different particle sizes and the alcoholysis degree affects the air filtration efficiency. Thus, through controlling zein content and alcoholysis degree, the filtration efficiency of nanofibers is promoted availably. These results indicate that the natural nanofilter prepared with zein and PVA can be used a multifunctional and efficient material for air filtration.
Effect of Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanoplatelet on Crystal Nucleation, Mechanical Behavior, and Thermal Stability of High‐Density Polyethylene‐Based Nanocomposites
Authors: Chaurasia Ankur , Parashar Avinash , Mulik Rahul S.
Published: June 2020

Hexagonal boron nitride nanoplatelets (BNNP) significantly enhance the mechanical and thermal properties of high‐density polyethylene. In order to ensure superior dispersibility of BNNP, two different techniques, colloidal solution, and solvent blending, are used for fabricating nanocomposites. Compared to solvent blending, the colloidal solution‐based fabrication technique has superior dispersion capabilities for nanofillers in the PE matrix, which helps in improving the thermal stability and crystallinity in synthesized nanocomposites. A significant increase in the rate of crystallization of polyethylene (PE) is reported at 1% weight fraction of BNNP, which further increases with the increase in weight percentage of BNNP. BNNP acts as a new source of nucleating sites for crystallization in PE that also reduces the size of secondary structures spherulites. Enhanced tensile strength and Young’s modulus of BNNP/PE nanocomposites are reported with the increase in weight contribution of BNNP in the range of 1% to 5%.
Erratum to the paper “Quadratic descent of hermitian forms”
Authors: Nokhodkar A.‐H.
Published: June 2020

There exists a mistake in the proof of Theorem 4.2. We present a new proof of this theorem, which shows that the main results of the paper are still true.
Effect of Anchoring Groups on Electron Transfer at Porphyrins‐TiO2 Interfaces in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cell Application
Authors: Milana Phutri , Nurhayati  , Steky Fry Voni , Ando Yuta , Simanullang Marolop , Sugiyama Mutsumi , Radiman Cynthia Linaya , Suendo Veinardi
Published: June 2020

Porphyrin has excellent optical properties as required in solar cell applications, for example, high molar extinction coefficient and high quantum efficiency (≈80%). Excellent optical properties make porphyrin a good candidate as a photosensitizer, that is, in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSC). Nevertheless, porphyrins exhibit poor charge transfer resulting in poor cell performance. Poor charge transfer in porphyrins is due to the aggregation, low porphyrin adsorption, and weakly bound porphyrins on the TiO2 surface. Anchoring group attached to the porphyrin ring may play an important role to increase both charge transfer and porphyrin adsorption. This study adopts a strategy to increase the electron transfer from porphyrins to TiO2 by applying different anchoring groups. This strategy aims both to reduce the aggregation and to enhance the binding between porphyrin and TiO2 surface. The presence of methyl and carboxylic acid as the anchoring groups in the porphyrin system can increase the electronic coupling between the porphyrin and the TiO2 surface while also hindering the aggregation. Thus, the presence of anchoring groups improves the electron injection efficiency and cell performance. The type and position of the anchoring groups strongly contribute to the electron injection, thus is discussed in detail.
The Effect of Surface Modification by Sizing Agent on the Water Absorption Capacity of Cassava Starch‐based Biofoam Packaging
Authors: Iriani Evi Savitri , Wahyuningsih Kendri , Oktavia Evi
Published: June 2020

Biodegradable foam (biofoam) packaging is made from natural polymers as the main raw material and it is environmentally friendly. However, this packaging is water sensitive, thus it is not suitable for products with high moisture content. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of surface modification of cassava starch‐based biofoam, using Alkyl Ketene Dimer/AKD as sizing agent, on its hydrophobic characteristics. A completely randomized factorial design is carried out using two factors and two replications. Factor A is a type of pulp of oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFB) with different treatment modifications (pulp A; pulp B; pulp C) and factor B is the concentration of AKD (0%; 2.5%; 3.3%; 5.0%). Biofoam is made by thermopressing. Its characterization observed includes physical properties, mechanical properties, and morphological structure. The results show that surface modification of biofoam with AKD significantly effected its moisture content, density, water absorption capacity, and compressive strength. The addition of AKD externally as a sizing agent is able to reduce water absorption capacity by an average of 83.26% compared to biofoam without coating with AKD.
Effect of Solvent Combination on Electrospun Stereocomplex Polylactic Acid Nanofiber Properties
Authors: Septiyanti Melati , Septevani Athanasia Amanda , Ghozali Muhammad , Fahmiati Sri , Triwulandari Evi , Restu Witta Kartika , Meliana Yenny , Matsumoto Takuya , Nishino Takashi
Published: June 2020

Polylactic acid (PLA) has been known as bio‐based polymer for the development of bioplastic with promising properties such as biodegradable, biocompatible, non‐toxic, and renewable. However, its low thermal properties have limited its applications. Thus, in this study stereocomplex PLA (sc‐PLA) is investigated with the aim to improve thermal properties by mixing poly L‐lactic acid (PLLA) and poly D‐lactic acid (PDLA) in solution blend combination via electrospinning. The electrospun sc‐PLA fiber is prepared in combination of chloroform (CHCl3), N,N‐dimethylformamide, and hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP). The effect of solvents in the properties of sc‐PLA is analyzed using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) to understand chemical interaction between PLLA and PDLA. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermo gravimetric analyzer is used to understand the thermal properties of sc‐PLA. It is found that the optimum solvent combination for sc‐PLA nanofiber is CHCl3/HFIP 9:1 with the smallest nanofiber diameter 39.7 nm and the melting point improved by 47 °C compared with neat PLA due to stereocomplexation between PLLA and PDLA.
Preparation of Zeolite‐g‐Polyacrylamide using Radiation Induced Grafting and Its Adsorption Isotherms Study on Several Heavy Metal Ions
Authors: Nuryanthi Nunung , Syahputra Akhmad Rasyid , Oktaviani  , Puspitasari Tita , Pangerteni Dewi Sekar , Kurniawan Rendi , Astuti Dyah Ayu Tri , Darwis Darmawan
Published: June 2020

Zeolite‐g‐polyacrylamide is prepared by using the radiation induced grafting technique. Clinoptilotite, a natural zeolite, is used as the base matrix. In order to increase the degree of grating of polyacrylamide into the zeolite, its surface is modified with silane compound before the grafting reaction and applied a poor solvent method in the grafting reaction, i.e., a mixture of toluene and H2O. The irradiation doses are varied from 10 to 50 kGy. The grafting parameters are 40% w/w acrylamide, temperature 60 °C and 3 h grafting time. The highest degree of grafting is 93% at an irradiation dose of 25 kGy. The zeolite‐g‐polyacrylamide is then characterized with FTIR spectroscopy and SEM observation. Batch experiments are also carried out to investigate the adsorption capacity for ion Cr3+, Pb2+, and Zn2+. The maximum adsorption capacities of zeolite‐g‐polyacrylamide are 544, 345, and 1046 mg g−1 for ion Cr3+, Pb2+, and Zn2+, respectively. The equilibrium data are also tested with Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm to find the best suitable adsorption isotherm system.
Properties of Natural Rubber/Chloroprene Rubber Blend for Rubber Fender Application: Effects of Blend Ratio
Authors: Anggaravidya Mahendra , Amry Akhmad , Arti Dewi K. , Kalembang Eryanti , Susanto Herri , Hidayat Ade S. , Limansubroto Caroline D.
Published: June 2020

Natural rubber is widely known to possess good mechanical properties. However, due to the existence of numerous reactive double bonds on the molecular backbone, natural rubber is highly susceptible to degradation by thermal aging. To overcome such shortcomings, natural rubber is frequently blended with synthetic rubbers such as chloroprene rubber. Chloroprene rubber is one of the most important specialty rubber for nontire application, for example rubber fender. The present study investigates the effects of two different blend ratios of natural rubber (standard Indonesian rubber or SIR 10) and chloroprene rubber on the cure, tensile properties, and morphology of rubber blends. The blends of SIR 10/chloroprene rubber are prepared by using laboratory kneader and laboratory two‐roll mill. Rubber blending is made from mixture of natural rubber SIR 10 and synthetic rubber chloroprene rubber with variation of SIR 10/chloroprene rubber ratio PF1 100/0; PF2 70/30; PF3 30/70; PF4 0/100 phr. Furthermore, each variable is tested to determine the rheological and mechanical properties including tensile strength, elongation at break, hardness, and compression set. The addition of chloroprene rubber also causes an increment in the tensile strength and elongation at break. However, only PF3 shows satisfied result compared to the requirements standard (ISO 17357‐1:2014 Ship and Marine Technology‐Floating Pneumatic Rubber Fenders).
Synthesis and Characterization of Zeolite–AMO Hybrid Composite Adsorbent by Using Simultaneous Gamma Irradiation for Uranium (VI) Removal from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Puspitasari Tita , Darwis Darmawan , Pangerteni Dewi Sekar , Seftiani Siska , Nurhasni Nurhasni
Published: June 2020

The material of organic–inorganic hybrid polymers combine the functional organic and the advantages of a thermally stable and robust inorganic substrate, resulting in strong binding affinities toward selected metal ions and relatively high metal ion adsorption capacities. The aim of this work is to synthesize the polymer‐inorganic hybrid composite adsorbent base on amidoxime zeolite (zeolite–AMO) using simultaneous radiation technique; to characterize the adsorbent using FTIR and zeta potential; and to test the adsorption capacity of adsorbent for uranium (VI) using batch adsorption test in aqueous system. The solvent system of acrylonitrile monomer is water emulsion, with the concentration of 30%. The irradiation dose is 100 kGy with the dose rate of 2 kGy h−1. The hydroxylamine solution with the concentration of 6% in a mixture of water–methanol with ratio of 1:1 at 80 °C for 3 hours of reaction time uses for the amidoximation process. The result shows that the highest degree of grafting is 20.31%. Furthermore, the amidoxime density is 5.82 mmol g−1 and the optimum pH is 5.9. The sorption process follows the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and fits with the Freundlich model analysis.
Characterization of Artemisinin Solid Dispersion in Maltodextrin and Gum Arabic by Freeze Dried and High Energy Milling Methods
Authors: Meliana Yenny , Utami Debri , Septiyanti Melati , Wulandari Evi Tri , Ghozali Muhammad , Restu Witta Kartika , Fahmiati Sri , Lelono Raden Arthur Ario
Published: June 2020

Artemisinin is an effective medicine for malaria treatment. Artemisinin has poor solubility in water that lowers the bioavailability of the drug. Solid dispersion is an efficient method for oral bioavailability improvement. This present study is conducted to prepare and characterize artemisinin solid dispersion in maltodextrin and gum arabic. Solid dispersions are prepared using freeze‐dried method with a ratio of artemisinin and carriers 1:19 and ratios of maltodextrin and gum arabic 1:1, 1:2, and 2:1. The particle size of solid dispersions is decreased mechanically using high energy ball mill machine type Hem‐E3D. Artemisinin solid dispersions are characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope, particle size analyzer, and different scanning calorimetry. The particle size of artemisinin solid dispersions in maltodextrin and gum arabic are 582–1196 nm after milling process. The solid dispersions are found to be in irregular shape and have good homogeneity. FTIR spectra of solid dispersion show lactone and peroxide group stretching peaks that indicate the presence of artemisinin in solid dispersions.
Porous Architecture Evaluation of Silk Fibroin Scaffold from Direct Dissolution Salt Leaching Method
Authors: Judawisastra Hermawan , Nugraha Febri Ramdani , Wibowo Untung Ari
Published: June 2020

Tissue engineering scaffold is used to facilitate and support cell/tissue growth. Fabrication of silk fibroin scaffold using newly developed direct dissolution salt leaching method is successfully done. This method significantly reduces the processing time compared to the traditional method. Cells attachment, cells growth, cells migration, and diffusion of nutrients and waste are affected by the architecture scaffold. In this study, 3D analysis on porous architecture evaluation of direct dissolution salt leaching scaffolds is conducted. Scaffolds are fabricated from different NaCl particle sizes of 158, 250, 378, and 503 μm at 12% w/v silk fibroin concentration. Scaffold architecture is evaluated using microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT) method. Evaluation of scaffold architecture shows that the use of larger NaCl particle size increases the scaffold pore size. The relationship between scaffold pore size and scaffold porosity, scaffold wall thickness, pore interconnectivity, scaffold specific surface area is established, which is important for tissue formation.
Preparation and Characterization of Hard Rubber and Soft Rubber for Marine Rubber Fender
Authors: Saputra Dita A. , Husin Saddam , Gumelar Muhammad D. , Aisah Nuning , Susanto Herri , Admi Ratna I. , Anindita Gizelda L.
Published: June 2020

The main aim of installing marine rubber fender is to protect both the vessel and the dock from major failure during the berthing period. External forces, such as abrasion or other natural factors may occur during the berthing process. Therefore, marine rubber fenders are made to overcome this problem, and hence more money can be saved due to less vessel or dock fixing. There are two types of rubber that can be used as marine rubber fenders, namely hard rubber (HR) and soft rubber (SR), which have different requirements in terms of hardness, tensile strength, elongation at break, tear strength, abrasion resistance, and compression set. In this study, HR and SR are prepared from natural rubber (rubber smoked sheet 1) and synthetic rubber (styrene butadiene rubber) using laboratory kneader and open mill. Ratio of natural rubber and synthetic rubber is studied to investigate the effects on mechanical properties of HR and SR. The result shows that 70/30 phr natural rubber/synthetic rubber is proven to fulfill the requirement of rubber fender for HR and SR.
Synthesis of Nanofibers from Alginate‐Polyvinyl Alcohol using Electrospinning Methods
Authors: Aloma Karo Karo , Sukaryo Sulistioso , Fahlawati Nur Izmi , Dahlan Kiagus , Oemar Sudirman
Published: June 2020

Alginate has been known as a polymer used for medical purposes such as wound dressing. PVA is a water soluble polymer, which has good fiber making ability and biocompatible. The alginate–PVA fibers are prepared using electrospinning method in aqueous solutions with 2% Alginate (2 wt%)/PVA (10 wt%) blended system in a volume ratios of 3/3, 2/3, and 1/3 and spinneret–collector spacing effect of 8, 10, and 12 cm. The functional group analysis shows the identity of the resulting compound and the absence of the formation of a new functional group. X‐ray diffraction analysis shows an increasingly widening crystal peak and lowered intensity of the crystalline peak. SEM data show the effect of variation of alginate composition and spinneret–collector spacing on the resulting morphology of fiber. The 10 cm spinneret–collector distance shows a continuous fiber and is not bending. The alginate–PVA 3/3 (v/v) and 2/3 (v/v) fibers qualify nanofiber trades because they have a fiber diameter of about 172,242–326,244 nm. Based on the result of tensile strength value and percent elongation of alginate–PVA 3/3 (v/v) fiber can be used as wound dressing as it meets the standard of medical material.
The Influence of Hydrolysis Time in Hydrothermal Process of Cellulose from Sengon Wood Sawdust
Authors: Trisant Prida Novarita , Gunardi Ignatius , Sumarno
Published: June 2020

In this paper, microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is isolated from Sengon wood (Albazia chinensis) sawdust through an ultrasound‐assisted (alkaline) delignification and hydrothermal process. The effect of temperature and time of hydrothermal process on the MCC properties is investigated. Sengon sawdust is delignified by ultrasound in 0.5 M sodium hydroxide solution (1/30 w/v) at 40 °C for 30 min. The solid part is bleached using sodium hypochlorite. The delignification is followed by the hydrothermal treatment at different time periods (160 °C, 80 bar). Well‐defined fibrils of MCC have been proved by the scanning electron microscopy analysis. The diameter of MCC is in the range of 5–20 µm and less than 100 µm in length. In MCC, the crystallinity of cellulose increases from 56.43% to 79.1% in sengon sawdust.