bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytohormone and Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Endogenous Cytokinins Affect Kiwifruit Growth under Restricted Carbon Supply
Authors: Nardozza Simona , Cooney Janine , Boldingh Helen L. , Hewitt Katrin G. , Trower Tania , Jones Dan , Thrimawithana Amali H. , Allan Andrew C. , Richardson Annette C.
Published: January 2020

Following cell division, fruit growth is characterized by both expansion through increases in cell volume and biomass accumulation in cells. Fruit growth is limited by carbon starvation; however, the mechanism controlling fruit growth under restricted carbohydrate supply is poorly understood. In a previous study using red-fleshed kiwifruit, we showed that long-term carbon starvation had detrimental effects on carbohydrate, anthocyanin metabolism, and fruit growth. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying the reduction in fruit growth during kiwifruit development, we integrated phytohormone profiling with transcriptomic and developmental datasets for fruit under high or low carbohydrate supplies. Phytohormone profiling of the outer pericarp tissue of kiwifruit showed a 6-fold reduction in total cytokinin concentrations in carbon-starved fruit, whilst other hormones were less affected. Principal component analysis visualised that cytokinin composition was distinct between fruit at 16 weeks after mid bloom, based on their carbohydrate supply status. Cytokinin biosynthetic genes (IPT, CYP735A) were significantly downregulated under carbon starvation, in agreement with the metabolite data. Several genes that code for expansins, proteins involved in cell wall loosening, were also downregulated under carbon starvation. In contrast to other fleshy fruits, our results suggest that cytokinins not only promote cell division, but also drive fruit cell expansion and growth in kiwifruit.
Adsorption and Absorption of Collagen Peptides to Polydimethlysiloxane and Its Influence on Platelet Adhesion Flow Assays
Authors: Sorrells Matthew G. , Neeves Keith B.
Published: January 2020

Collagen peptides are an alternative to animal derived collagens for platelet function studies under flow. The purpose of this study was to examine the use of collagen peptides in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) devices. Three collagen peptides with amino acid sequences and structures that capture von Willebrand factor and bind it with the platelet receptors integrin α2β1 and glycoprotein VI were patterned on glass, silicon, and PDMS. Each of these surfaces was also functionalized with tridecafluoro-1,1,2,2-tetrahydrooctyltrichlorosilane (FOTS). Surfaces were characterized by their ability to support platelet adhesion, topology by atomic force microscopy, contact angle, and peptides absorption. PDMS readily absorbs collagen peptides, depleting them from solution, thus reducing their adsorption to glass and silicon substrates when used for micropatterning. Treatment of PDMS with FOTS, but not bovine serum albumin or poloxamer 407, inhibits collagen peptide absorption and supports adsorption and platelet adhesion at venous and arterial shear rates. Similarly, FOTS treatment of glass or silicon supports collagen peptide adsorption even in the presence of untreated PDMS. In conclusion, PDMS acts as an absorptive sink for collagen peptides, rendering a non-adhesive surface for platelet adhesion and competing for peptides when used for micropatterning. The absorption of collagen peptides can be overcome by functionalization of PDMS with a fluorinated alkyl silane, thus allowing its use as a material for micropatterning or as a surface for platelet adhesion flow assays.
Use of a Zeolite and Molecular Sieve to Restore Homeostasis of Soil Contaminated with Cobalt
Authors: Boros-Lajszner Edyta , Wyszkowska Jadwiga , Kucharski Jan
Published: January 2020

Since contamination of soil with cobalt disturbs the soil’s biological balance, various types of compounds are being sought that could be used to restore the homeostasis of contaminated soil. The aim of the study was to determine the use of a Bio.Zeo.S.01 zeolite and molecular sieve in restoring the microbiological and biochemical balance of soil contaminated with cobalt. Soil samples were contaminated with cobalt (CoCl2·6H2O) at 0, 20, 80 mg·kg−1, and a Bio.Zeo.S.01 zeolite and molecular sieve were introduced at 0 and 15 g·kg−1. The soils on which the experiment was conducted were loamy sand and sandy clay loam. The experiment was carried out in two series on soil with and without a crop sown in it. The multiplication of microorganisms and the soil enzymes’ activity were determined on days 25 and 50 (harvest) of the experiment, and the yield of the underground and above-ground parts of maize and chemical and physical properties of soil were determined on the day of harvest. It was found that the microorganisms’ multiplication, enzyme activity, and maize yield were significantly disturbed by the excess of cobalt in the soil regardless of the soil type. The zeolite Bio.Zeo.S.01 used in the study had a smaller impact on microorganisms and soil enzyme activity than the molecular sieve. Cobalt accumulated more in the roots than in the above-ground parts of maize. An addition of sorbents decreased the accumulation of cobalt in maize grown only on sandy clay loam.
Towards Highly Efficient TADF Yellow-Red OLEDs Fabricated by Solution Deposition Methods: Critical Influence of the Active Layer Morphology
Authors: Kumar Manish , Pereira Luiz
Published: January 2020

Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) based on thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitters (TADF) in simple device structures fabricated by solution processing are strongly dependent on a suitable host molecular conformation and morphology. Herein, we report the fabrication of highly efficient yellow-red TADF-based OLEDs via solution processing in a simple, two-organic-layer device structure. The devices were fabricated at different weight concentrations of 5%, 8%, and 10% emitter in an n-/p-type mixed host matrix, and their characteristics were studied. The device performance was compared with different thickness parameters for both the emitting layer (EML) and the electron transport layer (ETL) in various solvents, including chlorobenzene, dichlorobenzene, and chloroform. By optimizing the mixed ratio of EML, yellow-red OLEDs of 2-[4 (diphenylamino)phenyl]-10,10-dioxide-9H-thioxanthen-9-one (TXO-TPA) emitter in an n-/p-type host matrix of poly(N-vinylcarbazole):1,3-Bis[2-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazo-5-yl]benzene (PVK:OXD-7) as a blend for the active layer were fabricated. In the best results, the device exhibited a lower turn-on voltage at around 6 V, with an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 18.44%, current efficiency of 36.71 cd/A, and power efficiency of 14.74 Lm/W for the 8% emitter concentration. The importance of solvent for improving the electrical properties, together with organic layer thickness and host effect for the charge carrier’s transport and device characteristics are also discussed.
Galvanic Replacement Reaction as a Route to Prepare Nanoporous Aluminum for UV Plasmonics
Authors: Garoli Denis , Schirato Andrea , Giovannini Giorgia , Cattarin Sandro , Ponzellini Paolo , Calandrini Eugenio , Proietti Zaccaria Remo , D’Amico Francesco , Pachetti Maria , Yang Wei , Jin Hai-Jun , Krahne Roman , Alabastri Alessandro
Published: January 2020

There is a growing interest in extending plasmonics applications into the ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum. Noble metals are commonly used in plasmonic, but their intrinsic optical properties limit their use above 350 nm. Aluminum is probably the most suitable material for UV plasmonics, and in this work we fabricated substrates of nanoporous aluminum starting from an alloy of Al2Mg3. The porous metal is obtained by means of a galvanic replacement reaction. Such nanoporous metal can be exploited to achieve a plasmonic material suitable for enhanced UV Raman spectroscopy and fluorescence. Thanks to the large surface to volume ratio, this material represents a powerful platform for promoting interaction between plasmonic substrates and molecules in the UV.
One-Step Synthesis of Diamine-Functionalized Graphene Quantum Dots from Graphene Oxide and Their Chelating and Antioxidant Activities
Authors: El-Hnayn Rabeb , Canabady-Rochelle Laetitia , Desmarets Christophe , Balan Lavinia , Rinnert Hervé , Joubert Olivier , Medjahdi Ghouti , Ben Ouada Hafedh , Schneider Raphaël
Published: January 2020

2,2’-(Ethylenedioxy)bis(ethylamine)-functionalized graphene quantum dots (GQDs) were prepared under mild conditions from graphene oxide (GO) via oxidative fragmentation. The as-prepared GQDs have an average diameter of ca. 4 nm, possess good colloidal stability, and emit strong green-yellow light with a photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield of 22% upon excitation at 375 nm. We also demonstrated that the GQDs exhibit high photostability and the PL intensity is poorly affected while tuning the pH from 1 to 8. Finally, GQDs can be used to chelate Fe(II) and Cu(II) cations, scavenge radicals, and reduce Fe(III) into Fe(II). These chelating and reducing properties that associate to the low cytotoxicity of GQDs show that these nanoparticles are of high interest as antioxidants for health applications.
Chloramine-T/N-Bromosuccinimide/FeCl3/KIO3 Decorated Graphene Oxide Nanosheets and Their Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Hashmi Ayesha , Singh Ajaya Kumar , Jain Bhawana , Carabineiro Sónia Alexandra Correia
Published: January 2020

In this work, we report the synthesis of graphene oxide nanosheets (GO NS) using four different oxidants, namely, chloramine-T (CAT), FeCl3, N-bromosuccinimide (NBS), and KIO3. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to characterize the functional groups present in the synthesized GO. The microstructure analysis was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to investigate the morphology of GO. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) studies demonstrated the nanostructure and crystalline phases of GO. The antibacterial activity of the prepared GO NS was investigated against pure cultures of Pseudomonas pneumonia and Staphylococcus aureus. The synthesized GO NS with CAT-GO (C-GO) exhibited very good antibacterial activity towards pathogens.
Convenient Real-Time Monitoring of the Contamination of Surface Ion Trap
Authors: Zhang Xinfang , Hou Yizhu , Chen Ting , Wu Wei , Chen Pingxing
Published: January 2020

Recent studies indicated that contamination by adatoms on the surface ion trap can generate contact potential, leading to fluctuations in patch potential. By investigating contamination induced by surface adatoms during a loading process, a direct physical image of the contamination process and the relationship between the capacitance change and the contamination from surface adatoms is examined theoretically and experimentally. From the relationship, the contamination by surface adatoms and the effect of in situ treatment process can be monitored by the capacitance between electrodes in real time. This study is foundational to further research on anomalous heating with practical applications in quantum information processing from surface ion traps.
Denture Wearing and Malnutrition Risk Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Su Ya , Yuki Michiko , Hirayama Kengo , Sato Miho , Han Tianfang
Published: January 2020

Most studies have associated denture wearing with a higher risk of malnutrition and lower nutritional intake in the elderly. As the effect of wearing dentures remains debatable, the aim of this study was to determine if older adults wearing dentures have a higher risk of malnutrition. We recruited 294 Japanese community-dwelling adults aged ≥65 years from two elderly welfare centers in Sapporo. The Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF) was used to assess their nutritional status. Their demographic characteristics, eating habits, and health status were assessed using a questionnaire. Moreover, salt-impregnated taste paper and bioelectrical impedance analysis were used to obtain salt taste sensitivity and body composition (body mass index and protein mass). The mean age of older adults was 75.8 ± 5.8 years and 71.1% were women. We found that 74.1% of the older adults wore dentures. The proportion of the whole population with a risk of malnutrition was 23.5%. Multivariate analysis revealed that partial denture wearing could be protective against the risk of malnutrition. In this study, we found more partial denture wearers with normal nutritional conditions and cooking by themselves than non-denture-wearing older adults. Furthermore, complete denture wearers were eating significantly less meats or fish every day. This study suggests that using partial dentures to replace the lost teeth to meet the dietary needs of the elderly is critical to maintaining a healthy nutritional status. Moreover, it also indicates the importance of providing education to older adults who wear complete dentures.
Sexually Dimorphic Associations between Maternal Factors and Human Milk Hormonal Concentrations
Authors: Galante Laura , Lagström Hanna , Vickers Mark H. , Reynolds Clare M. , Rautava Samuli , Milan Amber M. , Cameron-Smith David , Pundir Shikha
Published: January 2020

While human milk composition is characterised by marked dynamicity, we are far from having a clear picture of what factors drive this variation. Hormones in human milk are known to vary according to specific maternal phenotypes, but limited evidence shows the infant also has a role in determining milk composition. The present study aimed to investigate the interplay between maternal and infant characteristics in relation to human milk hormonal profile. In total, 501 human milk samples from mothers recruited in the Finnish STEPS cohort study (Steps to the healthy development) were analysed. Pre-pregnancy and pregnancy maternal data, socioeconomic status and infant characteristics at birth were collated. Leptin, adiponectin, insulin-like growth factor-1 and cyclic Glycine-Proline in milk were measured. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and linear regression were utilised for statistical analysis. Sex-specific interactions with maternal factors were observed, as the infant sex mediated associations between gestational diabetes and milk adiponectin (p = 0.031), birth-mode and total protein (p = 0.003), maternal education and insulin-like growth factor-1: cyclic Glycine-Proline ratio (p = 0.035). Our results suggest that changes in human milk composition are associated with interactions between maternal and infant characteristics and pathophysiological factors. Future work should expand on these findings and further explore the link between hormonal profiles in human milk and infant outcomes.
The Effect of Zinc, Selenium, and Their Combined Supplementation on Androgen Receptor Protein Expression in the Prostate Lobes and Serum Steroid Hormone Concentrations of Wistar Rats
Authors: Daragó Adam , Klimczak Michał , Stragierowicz Joanna , Stasikowska-Kanicka Olga , Kilanowicz Anna
Published: January 2020

Background: Zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se) play a well-documented role in cancer prevention (e.g., for prostate cancer), and their combined supplementation is often given as a recommended prophylactic agent. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of Zn and/or Se supplementation on the androgen receptor (AR) in the prostate lobes and the serum selected hormone concentrations; a hitherto unresearched topic. Methods: Male rats (n = 84) were administered with Zn and/or Se intragastrically for up to 90 days. The effects of administration on the tested parameters were checked after 30 and 90 days of administration and additionally, 90 days after the end of 90 day administration. Results: Zn alone leads to an increase in serum testosterone concentrations, while the protein expression of AR in both parts of the prostate increases. Combined administration of Zn and Se eliminates the effect of Zn, which may suggest that these two elements act antagonistically. Se supplementation alone results in the same level of AR protein expression in administration and 90 days after administration periods. Conclusion: This paper presents the first report of the influence of Zn and/or Se supplementation on the protein expression of AR in the prostate. Our findings seem to indicate that simultaneous supplementation of both elements may be ineffective.
Adaptation and Evaluation of Myfood24-Germany: A Web-Based Self-Administered 24-h Dietary Recall for the German Adult Population
Authors: Koch Stefanie A. J. , Conrad Johanna , Hierath Linda , Hancock Neil , Beer Sarah , Cade Janet E. , Nöthlings Ute
Published: January 2020

Our aim was to develop and evaluate a German adaptation of myfood24, a fully automated, web-based 24-h dietary recall (24HDR). To complete a self-administered 24HDR with myfood24, users have to search and enter consumed foods within the underlying database by a free text search. The adaptation process thus mainly consisted of the development of an appropriate food database. myfood24-Germany was evaluated in 92 adults aged 17–78 years (study 1). Participants completed four non-consecutive 24HDRs and answered an evaluation questionnaire after the final recall. The System Usability Scale Score (SUS Score, 0–100) was calculated. Users’ search behavior was examined with screen recordings in 15 adults aged 20–60 years (study 2). Participants had to enter three sample meals presented as food packaging or pictures. The final database included 11,501 food items (7203 generic and 4298 branded items) with up to 131 nutrients. In study 1, the median completion time for a 24HDR was 15 min. The median SUS score of 78 indicated good usability. The majority of participants considered the overall user-friendliness as good (46%) or very good (21%), and 75% were willing to use myfood24-Germany regularly. Both studies showed that finding and choosing an appropriate item within the database was a major challenge. A German version of myfood24 was successfully developed. The user evaluation indicated a short completion time, good usability and acceptability of the tool, and confirmed its feasibility for repeated short-term application.
Efficacy and Safety of Resveratrol in Type 1 Diabetes Patients: A Two-Month Preliminary Exploratory Trial
Authors: Movahed Ali , Raj Pema , Nabipour Iraj , Mahmoodi Marzieh , Ostovar Afshin , Kalantarhormozi Mohammadreza , Netticadan Thomas
Published: January 2020

Resveratrol has been reported to be beneficial against diabetes complications. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of resveratrol in decreasing hyperglycemia in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) by a preliminary investigation designed as an exploratory clinical trial. Thirteen patients with T1D from both the sexes participated in this trial. All patients received resveratrol in 500 mg capsules, twice daily for 60 days. Bodyweight, fasting blood sugar (FBS), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), insulin, homeostasis model of assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), homeostasis model of assessment for β-cell function (HOMA-β), and markers of liver and kidney damage, inflammation, and oxidative stress were measured before the intervention, at 30 days and at 60 days. Resveratrol supplementation for 60 days significantly decreased FBS and HbA1c in comparison with the baseline values. Resveratrol treatment also resulted in a decrease in the level of a marker for oxidative stress, malondialdehyde, and an increase in total antioxidant capacity in T1D patients. Insulin, HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, and markers of liver and kidney function and inflammation were not significantly affected by resveratrol treatment. Overall, the results showed that 60 days of resveratrol supplementation exerted strong antidiabetic and antioxidant effects in patients with T1D.
Simultaneous Stereo PIV and MPS3 Wall-Shear Stress Measurements in Turbulent Channel Flow
Authors: Mäteling Esther , Klaas Michael , Schröder Wolfgang
Published: January 2020

An extended experimental method is presented in which the micro-pillar shear-stress sensor (MPS 3 ) and high-speed stereo particle-image velocimetry measurements are simultaneously performed in turbulent channel flow to conduct concurrent time-resolved measurements of the two-dimensional wall-shear stress (WSS) distribution and the velocity field in the outer flow. The extended experimental setup, which involves a modified MPS 3 measurement setup and data evaluation compared to the standard method, is presented and used to investigate the footprint of the outer, large-scale motions (LSM) onto the near-wall small-scale motions. The measurements were performed in a fully developed, turbulent channel flow at a friction Reynolds number R e τ = 969 . A separation between large and small scales of the velocity fluctuations and the WSS fluctuations was performed by two-dimensional empirical mode decomposition. A subsequent cross-correlation analysis between the large-scale velocity fluctuations and the large-scale WSS fluctuations shows that the streamwise inclination angle between the LSM in the outer layer and the large-scale footprint imposed onto the near-wall dynamics has a mean value of Θ ¯ x = 16.53 ∘ , which is consistent with the literature relying on direct numerical simulations and hot-wire anemometry data. When also considering the spatial shift in the spanwise direction, the mean inclination angle reduces to Θ ¯ x z = 13.92 ∘ .
Understanding Flavivirus Capsid Protein Functions: The Tip of the Iceberg
Authors: Sotcheff Stephanea , Routh Andrew
Published: January 2020

Flaviviruses are enveloped positive-sense single-stranded RNA arboviruses, infectious to humans and many other animals and are transmitted primarily via tick or mosquito vectors. Capsid is the primary structural protein to interact with viral genome within virus particles and is therefore necessary for efficient packaging. However, in cells, capsid interacts with many proteins and nucleic acids and we are only beginning to understand the broad range of functions of flaviviral capsids. It is known that capsid dimers interact with the membrane of lipid droplets, aiding in both viral packaging and storage of capsid prior to packaging. However, capsid dimers can bind a range of nucleic acid templates in vitro, and likely interact with a range of targets during the flavivirus lifecycle. Capsid may interact with host RNAs, resulting in altered RNA splicing and RNA transcription. Capsid may also bind short interfering-RNAs and has been proposed to sequester these species to protect flaviviruses from the invertebrate siRNA pathways. Capsid can also be found in the nucleolus, where it wreaks havoc on ribosome biogenesis. Here we review flavivirus capsid structure, nucleic acid interactions and how these give rise to multiple functions. We also discuss how these features might be exploited either in the design of effective antivirals or novel vaccine strategies.
In Vitro Dissolution and in Silico Modeling Shortcuts in Bioequivalence Testing
Authors: Al-Tabakha Moawia M. , Alomar Muaed J.
Published: January 2020

Purpose: To review in vitro testing and simulation platforms that are in current use to predict in vivo performances of generic products as well as other situations to provide evidence for biowaiver and support drug formulations development. Methods: Pubmed and Google Scholar databases were used to review published literature over the past 10 years. The terms used were “simulation AND bioequivalence” and “modeling AND bioequivalence” in the title field of databases, followed by screening, and then reviewing. Results: A total of 22 research papers were reviewed. Computer simulation using software such as GastroPlus™, PK-Sim® and SimCyp® find applications in drug modeling. Considering the wide use of optimization for in silico predictions to fit observed data, a careful review of publications is required to validate the reliability of these platforms. For immediate release (IR) drug products belonging to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) classes I and III, difference factor (ƒ1) and similarity factor (ƒ2) are calculated from the in vitro dissolution data of drug formulations to support biowaiver; however, this method can be more discriminatory and may not be useful for all dissolution profiles. Conclusions: Computer simulation platforms need to improve their mechanistic physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling, and if prospectively validated within a small percentage of error from the observed clinical data, they can be valuable tools in bioequivalence (BE) testing and formulation development.
Poly(Ethylene Glycol) Crosslinked Multi-Armed Poly(l-Lysine) with Encapsulating Capacity and Antimicrobial Activity for the Potential Treatment of Infection-Involved Multifactorial Diseases
Authors: Lu Chao , Wen Ting , Zheng Maochao , Liu Daojun , Quan Guilan , Pan Xin , Wu Chuanbin
Published: January 2020

With the development of modern medical technology, common diseases usually can be treated by traditional medicines and their formulation, while diseases with multiple etiologies still remain a great challenge in clinic. Nanoformulation was widely explored to address this problem. However, due to limited drug loading space of nanocarriers, co-delivery strategy usually fails to achieve sufficient loading of multiple drugs simultaneously. In this research, we explored the potential of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) crosslinked alternating copolymers MPLL-alt-PEG as both an anionic drug carrier and antimicrobial agent. The high cationic charge density of multi-armed poly(l-lysine) (MPLL) segments in MPLL-alt-PEG could endow the electrostatic encapsulation of anionic model drugs through the formation of polyion complex micelles with a MPLL/drug complex core and crosslinked PEG outer shell, enabling pH-sensitive drug release. Meanwhile, the MPLL-alt-PEG copolymer exhibits a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activities against various clinically relevant microorganisms with low hemolytic activity. Studies on antibacterial mechanism revealed that MPLL-alt-PEG attacked bacteria through the membrane disruption mechanism which is similar to that of typical antimicrobial peptides. Taken together, the present study shed light on the possibility of endowing a polymeric carrier with therapeutic effect and thus offered a promising strategy for achieving a comprehensive treatment of bacterial infection-involved multifactorial diseases.
Molecular Characterization and Expression Profile of PaCOL1, a CONSTANS-like Gene in Phalaenopsis Orchid
Authors: Ke Yi-Ting , Lin Kung-Fu , Gu Chu-Han , Yeh Ching-Hui
Published: January 2020

CONSTANS (CO) and CONSTANS-like (COL) genes play important roles in coalescing signals from photoperiod and temperature pathways. However, the mechanism of CO and COLs involved in regulating the developmental stage transition and photoperiod/temperature senescing remains unclear. In this study, we identified a COL ortholog gene from the Taiwan native orchid Phalaenopsis aphrodite. The Phalaenopsis aphrodite CONSTANS-like 1 (PaCOL1) belongs to the B-box protein family and functions in the nucleus and cytosol. Expression profile analysis of Phalaenopsis aphrodite revealed that PaCOL1 was significantly expressed in leaves, but its accumulation was repressed during environmental temperature shifts. We found a differential profile for PaCOL1 accumulation, with peak accumulation at late afternoon and at the middle of the night. Arabidopsis with PaCOL1 overexpression showed earlier flowering under short-day (SD) conditions (8 h/23 °C light and 16 h/23 °C dark) but similar flowering time under long-day (LD) conditions (16 h/23 °C light and 8 h/23 °C dark). Transcriptome sequencing revealed several genes upregulated in PaCOL1-overexpressing Arabidopsis plants that were previously involved in flowering regulation of the photoperiod pathway. Yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) analysis and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) analysis revealed that PaCOL1 could interact with a crucial clock-associated regulator, AtCCA1, and a flowering repressor, AtFLC. Furthermore, expressing PaCOL1 in cca1.lhy partially reversed the mutant flowering time under photoperiod treatment, which confirms the role of PaCOL1 function in the rhythmic associated factors for modulating flowering.
Nodule Inception Is Not Required for Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Colonization of Medicago truncatula
Authors: Kumar Anil , Cousins Donna R. , Liu Cheng-Wu , Xu Ping , Murray Jeremy D.
Published: January 2020

Most legumes can engage in symbiosis with N-fixing bacteria called rhizobia. This symbiosis, called nodulation, evolved from the more widespread symbiosis that most land plants form with arbuscular mycorrhiza, which is reflected in a common requirement of certain genes for both these symbioses. One key nodulation gene, Nodule Inception (NIN), has been intensively studied. Mutants in NIN are unable to form nodules, which has made it difficult to identify downstream genes under the control of NIN. The analysis of data from our recent transcriptomics study revealed that some genes with an altered expression of nin during nodulation are upregulated in mycorrhizal roots. In addition, another study reported the decreased colonization of nin roots by arbuscular mycorrhiza. We therefore investigated a role for NIN in mycorrhiza formation. Our time course study, using two nin alleles with differing genetic backgrounds, suggests that that loss of NIN does not affect colonization of Medicago truncatula roots, either in the presence or absence of rhizobia. This, and recent phylogenetic analyses showing that the loss of NIN is correlated with loss of nodulation in the FaFaCuRo clade, but not with the ability to form mycorrhiza, argue against NIN being required for arbuscular mycorrhization in legumes.
Aging Mechanism and Rejuvenating Possibility of SBS Copolymers in Asphalt Binders
Authors: Wang Fusong , Zhang Lei , Zhang Xiaoshan , Li Hechuan , Wu Shaopeng
Published: January 2020

The styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS)-modified asphalt pavement has been in growing demand in the road construction field owing to its workable mechanical property and temperature durability. This paper prepared a penetrative rejuvenator (PR) with waste cooking oil (WCO) and emulsified asphalt, then applied PR on SBS copolymers to investigate its aging and rejuvenating effects in an asphalt binder. After a thin film oven test (TFOT) and ultraviolet (UV) aging of SBS copolymers, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra were used to analyse the aged copolymers’ chemical structure. Moreover, both aged and rejuvenated SBS copolymers were added into a fresh asphalt binder to get two kinds of modified asphalt binders, namely, MAAC (modified by aged copolymer) and MARC (modified by rejuvenated copolymer). Aiming to analyse the monomer effect of SBS copolymers in the asphalt binder, the rheological characteristic with dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), chemical structure with FTIR and physical properties with penetration, soft point and ductility tests were investigated using MAAC and MAAC samples. The results showed that rejuvenated SBS copolymer could improve MAAC’s viscoelasticity, but from FTIR spectral analysis, PR resulted in no chemical changes to SBS copolymers. A tough coat which made MAAC of higher stiffness was observed on the copolymer surface after thermal treatment. UV caused evidently negative effects on SBS copolymer because of accelerating oxidation by ozone, which brought about high possibility of cracks during servicing periods of asphalt pavement. In addition, MAAC was inferior in both rheological and physical properties, which reflected the significance and necessity in consideration of alleviating SBS copolymer aging in field.
Development of Novel Galactosylated PLGA Nanoparticles for Hepatocyte Targeting Using Molecular Modelling
Authors: Raposo Cláudia D. , Costa Rita , Petrova Krasimira T. , Brito Catarina , Scotti Marcus T. , Cardoso M. Margarida
Published: January 2020

Doxorubicin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles conjugated with a new galactose-based ligand for the specific recognition by human hepatoma cellular carcinoma cells (Hep G2) were successfully produced. The new targeting compound was selected using molecular docking combined with quantum chemical calculations for modelling and comparing molecular interactions among the H1 subunit of the asialoglycoprotein receptor containing the carbohydrate recognition domain and the ligand. The ligand, bis(1-O-ethyl-β-D-galactopyranosyl)amine, was synthetized, characterized, and subsequently linked to PLGA. Unloaded (PLGA-di-GAL NP) and doxorubicin-loaded (DOX-PLGA-di-GAL NP) nanoparticles were prepared using an emulsion method and characterized. The produced DOX-PLGA-di-GAL NP are spherical in shape with a size of 258 ± 47 nm, a zeta potential of −62.3 mV, and a drug encapsulation efficiency of 83%. The in vitro drug release results obtained show a three-phase release profile. In vitro cell studies confirmed the interaction between Hep G2 cells and PLGA-di-GAL NP. Cell cytotoxicity tests showed that unloaded NP are nontoxic and that DOX-PLGA-di-GAL NP caused a decrease of around 80% in cellular viability. The strategy used in this work to design new targeting compounds represents a promising tool to develop effective hepatocyte targeting drug delivery systems and can be applied to other tissues/organs.
Pitch Gradation by Ion-Dragging Effect in Polymer-Stabilized Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Reflector Device
Authors: Hu Xiaowen , Zeng Weijie , Zhang Xinmin , Wang Kai , Liao Xiaoling , Jiang Xinshuai , Jiang Xiao-Fang , Jin Mingliang , Shui Lingling , Zhou Guofu
Published: January 2020

An IR reflector based on polymer-stabilized cholesteric liquid crystal (PSCLC) can selectively tune IR light reflection for smart window application. Broadening the reflection bandwidth to block more IR heat radiation requires the expansion of the pitch distribution in the PSCLC. Traditional attempts using ex situ direct current (DC) bias upon an already polymerized PSCLC reflector usually require a sustaining potential difference holding the pitch gradient of the reflector. Removing the DC bias will lead to a reflect bandwidth comeback. Here, we have developed an in situ DC curing strategy to realize an irreversible reflect bandwidth broadening. Briefly, a DC bias was used to drive the redistribution of impurity cations, which can be captured by the ester group of oligomers, during the photopolymerization. During the slow polymerization process, such trapped cations will drag the oligomers towards the cathode and compress the pitch length near the cathode before the oligomers form the long polymer chain. Consequently, a frozen pitch gradient by such an in-situ-electric-field-assisted dynamic ion-dragging effect leads to the formation of a pitch gradient along the electrical field direction. After removing the DC bias, the as-cured polymer is observed to have frozen such a gradient pitch feature without recoverable change. As a result, the PSCLC reflector exhibits steady bandwidth broadening of 480 nm in the IR region, which provides the potential for saving energy as a smart window.
Switchable Wettability of Poly(NIPAAm-co-HEMA-co-NMA) Coated PET Fabric for Moisture Management
Authors: Chaudhuri Shamik , Wu Chang-Mou
Published: January 2020

In this study, we synthesized a random poly[(N-isopropylacrylamide)-co-(2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate)-co-(N-methylolacrylamide)] [poly(NIPAAm-co-HEMA-co-NMA)] copolymer through free-radical polymerization. The NIPAAm, HEMA and NMA moieties were framed to provide thermoresponsiveness, water absorption and retention control, and chemical cross-linking to achieve stability in aqueous medium, respectively. The copolymer showed a significant change in optical transmittance with a variation in temperature due to the change in volume (i.e., hydrophilic/hydrophobic) between 25 °C and 40 °C, attributed to the lower critical solution temperature property of the NIPAAm moiety. The copolymers were wire-bar-coated onto polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabric. Variation in the water contact angle affirmed the switchable wettability due to the change in temperature. We tested the coated fabrics for moisture absorption and release at different temperatures. The results at 20 °C and 37 °C indicated that the P2 copolymer had the highest moisture absorption and release capability. Therefore, the copolymers with tailored properties can be used as smart textiles for activity specific clothing.
Numerical Studies of the Viscosity of Reacting Polyurethane Foam with Experimental Validation
Authors: Schäfer Kay , Nestler Daisy , Tröltzsch Jürgen , Ireka Ikenna , Niedziela Dariusz , Steiner Konrad , Kroll Lothar
Published: January 2020

Products made of polyurethane foam are manufactured by the chemical reaction of various low-viscosity raw materials and additives. The diversity of different formulations to meet the requirements of the market makes the characterization of their processing and flow properties important for a simple and error-free production. The modeling and simulation of such processes are equally of great importance. This provides additional findings without the expense of real tests and makes it easier to design components. The work described in this paper was carried out against this background. An experimental setup using a rheometer was developed to determine the flow and curing properties of reacting polyurethane foam reproducibly with comparable expansion conditions to industrial processes. The experiment was mathematically modelled to investigate the rheology of reacting polyurethane foams. The mathematical framework consists of coupled, non-linear, partial differential equations for the dynamics and the heat transfer processes in the system. These are solved numerically in 3D using finite volume techniques under adequate physical conditions. The accuracy of two viscosity laws according to the state of the art and their novel combination were investigated in this context. The proposed viscosity model of this study provides accurate results compared to the experiment.
Degradation of Plastics under Anaerobic Conditions: A Short Review
Authors: Quecholac-Piña Xochitl , Hernández-Berriel María del Consuelo , Mañón-Salas María del Consuelo , Espinosa-Valdemar Rosa María , Vázquez-Morillas Alethia
Published: January 2020

Plastic waste is an issue of global concern because of the environmental impact of its accumulation in waste management systems and ecosystems. Biodegradability was proposed as a solution to overcome this problem; however, most biodegradable plastics were designed to degrade under aerobic conditions, ideally fulfilled in a composting plant. These new plastics could arrive to anaerobic environments, purposely or frequently, because of their mismanagement at the end of their useful life. This review analyzes the behavior of biodegradable and conventional plastics under anaerobic conditions, specifically in anaerobic digestion systems and landfills. A review was performed in order to identify: (a) the environmental conditions found in anaerobic digestion processes and landfills, as well as the mechanisms for degradation in those environments; (b) the experimental methods used for the assessment of biodegradation in anaerobic conditions; and (c) the extent of the biodegradation process for different plastics. Results show a remarkable variability of the biodegradation rate depending on the type of plastic and experimental conditions, with clearly better performance in anaerobic digestion systems, where temperature, water content, and inoculum are strictly controlled. The majority of the studied plastics showed that thermophilic conditions increase degradation. It should not be assumed that plastics designed to be degraded aerobically will biodegrade under anaerobic conditions, and an exact match must be done between the specific plastics and the end of life options that they will face.
A Green, Rapid and Efficient Dual-Sensors for Highly Selective and Sensitive Detection of Cation (Hg2+) and Anion (S2−) Ions Based on CMS/AgNPs Composites
Authors: Xue Yun , Ma Lina , Zhang Lei , Zhao Wanting , Li Zichao , Li Qun
Published: January 2020

Detection of mercury (Hg2+) and sulfide (S2−), universal and well-known toxic ions, is crucial in monitoring several diseases. How to design and fabricate the high-performance sensor for simultaneously and accurately detecting the Hg2+ and S2− is critical. Herein, we proposed a novel and convenient strategy for optical detection of Hg2+ and S2− by employing a carboxymethyl cellulose sodium/silver nanoparticle (CMS/AgNPs) colloidal solution, in which AgNPs were used as monitor for Hg2+ and S2−, and the CMS was utilized as both the stabilizer and the hydrophilic substrate for AgNPs. Well-identifiable peaks for Hg2+ and S2– were obtained in water based on UV–VIS absorption spectra, the absorbance intensity and/or position of nano-silver vary with the addition of Hg2+ cation and S2– anion, accompanying with color change. Impressively, the optimal AgNPs anchored CMS exhibited a high sensitivity and selectivity toward Hg2+ and S2−, the change in absorbance was linear with the concentration of Hg2+ (0–50 μM) and S2− (15–70 μM), and the lowest limits of detection (LOD) were 1.8 × 10−8 M and 2.4 × 10−7 M, respectively. More importantly, owing to the superior properties in testing Hg2+ and S2−, the fabricated sensor was successfully applied for detection of target ions in lake and tap water samples. All these good results implied that the designed strategy and as-designed samples is promising in detecting cation (Hg2+) and anion (S2−) ions and open up new opportunities for selecting other kinds of ions.
Simulation of Percolation Threshold, Tunneling Distance, and Conductivity for Carbon Nanotube (CNT)-Reinforced Nanocomposites Assuming Effective CNT Concentration
Authors: Zare Yasser , Rhee Kyong Yop
Published: January 2020

This article suggests simple and new equations for the percolation threshold of nanoparticles, the tunneling distance between nanoparticles, and the tunneling conductivity of polymer carbon nanotubes (CNTs) nanocomposites (PCNT), assuming an effective filler concentration. The developed equations correlate the conductivity, tunneling distance, and percolation threshold to CNT waviness, interphase thickness, CNT dimensions, and CNT concentration. The developed model for conductivity is applied for some samples and the predictions are evaluated by experimental measurements. In addition, the impacts of various parameters on the mentioned terms are discussed to confirm the developed equations. Comparisons between the calculations and the experimental results demonstrate the validity of the developed model for tunneling conductivity. High levels of CNT concentration, CNT length, and interphase thickness, as well as the straightness and thinness of CNTs increase the nanocomposite conductivity. The developed formulations can substitute for the conventional equations for determining the conductivity and percolation threshold in CNT-reinforced nanocomposites.
Properties of Rigid Polyurethane Foam Modified by Tung Oil-Based Polyol and Flame-Retardant Particles
Authors: Zhou Wei , Hao Shu-Jie , Feng Guo-Dong , Jia Pu-You , Ren Xiao-Li , Zhang Meng , Zhou Yong-Hong
Published: January 2020

Although tung oil is renewable, with an abundant production and low price in China, and it is used to synthesize different polyols for rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF), it remains a challenge to improve the properties of RPUF by redesigning the formula. Therefore, we propose four novel compounds to strengthen the properties of RPUF, such as the catalyst-free synthesis of tung oil-based polyol (PTOK), aluminum phosphate micro-capsule (AM), silica micro-capsule (SiM), and grafted epoxidized monoglyceride of tung oil on the surface of SiO2 (SiE), which were designed and introduced into the RPUF. Because of the PTOK with a catalytic function, the foaming process of some RPUF samples was catalyst-free. The results show that the incorporation of AM, SiM, and SiE, respectively, endow RPUF with a better thermal stability at a high temperature, and the T5%, Tmax1, and Tmax2 of RPUF appeared to be reduced, however, the Tmax3 and residue rate at 800 °C were improved, which may have a positive effect on the extension of the rescue time in case of fire, and the limiting oxygen index (LOI) value was increased to 22.6%. The formula, containing 25% PTOK made the RPUF environment-friendly. The results were obtained by comparing the pore size and mechanical properties of the RPUF—the AM had a better dispersion in the foam, and the foam obtained a better mechanical, thermal, and flame retardancy.
Antibacterial, Flexible, and Conductive Membrane Based on MWCNTs/Ag Coated Electro-Spun PLA Nanofibrous Scaffolds as Wearable Fabric for Body Motion Sensing
Authors: Gan Lu , Geng Aobo , Wu Ying , Wang Linjie , Fang Xingyu , Xu Lijie , Mei Changtong
Published: January 2020

In the present study, flexible and conductive nanofiber membranes were prepared by coating PLA nanofibrous scaffolds with carbon nanotubes and silver nanoparticles. The morphology and structure of the prepared membrane was characterized, as well as its mechanical properties, electrical sensing behavior during consecutive stretching-releasing cycles and human motion detecting performance. Furthermore, the antibacterial properties of the membrane was also investigated. Due to the synergistic and interconnected three-dimensional (3D) conductive networks, formed by carbon nanotubes and silver nanoparticles, the membrane exhibited repeatable and durable strain-dependent sensitivity. Further, the prepared membrane could accurately detect the motions of different body parts. Accompanied with promising antibacterial properties and washing fastness, the prepared flexible and conductive membrane provides great application potential as a wearable fabric for real-time body motion sensing.
Acidity Suppression of Hole Transport Layer via Solution Reaction of Neutral PEDOT:PSS for Stable Perovskite Photovoltaics
Authors: Kim Minseong , Yi Minji , Jang Woongsik , Kim Jung Kyu , Wang Dong Hwan
Published: January 2020

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(4-styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is typically used for hole transport layers (HTLs), as it exhibits attractive mechanical, electrical properties, and easy processability. However, the intrinsically acidic property can degrade the crystallinity of perovskites, limiting the stability and efficiency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this study, inverted CH3NH3PbI3 photovoltaic cells were fabricated with acidity suppressed HTL. We adjusted PEDOT:PSS via a solution reaction of acidic and neutral PEDOT:PSS. And we compared the various pH-controlled HTLs for PSCs devices. The smoothness of the pH-controlled PEDOT:PSS layer was similar to that of acidic PEDOT:PSS-based devices. These layers induced favorable crystallinity of perovskite compared with acidic PEDOT:PSS layers. Furthermore, the enhanced stability of pH optimized PEDOT:PSS-based devices, including the prevention of degradation by a strong acid, allowed the device to retain its power conversion efficiency (PCE) value by maintaining 80% of PCE for approximately 150 h. As a result, the pH-controlled HTL layer fabricated through the solution reaction maintained the surface morphology of the perovskite layer and contributed to the stable operation of PSCs.
Characterization of Engineering Plastics Plasticized Using Supercritical CO2
Authors: Watanabe Masaki , Hashimoto Yoshihide , Kimura Tsuyoshi , Kishida Akio
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the physical and chemical properties of engineering plastics processed using supercritical CO2. First, we prepared disk-shaped test pieces via a general molding process, which were plasticized using supercritical CO2 at temperatures lower than the glass-transition points of engineering plastics. Amorphous polymers were plasticized, and their molecular weight remained nearly unchanged after treatment with supercritical CO2. The mechanical strength significantly decreased despite the unchanged molecular weight. The surface roughness and contact angle increased slightly, and electrical properties such as the rate of charging decreased significantly. These results suggest that supercritical CO2 could be used for a new molding process performed at lower temperatures than those used in general molding processes, according to the required properties.