Hydrogels are three-dimensional platforms that serve as substitutes for native extracellular matrix.These materials are starting to play important roles in regenerative medicine because of their similarities to native...Hydrogels are three-dimensional platforms that serve as substitutes for native extracellular matrix.These materials are starting to play important roles in regenerative medicine because of their similarities to native matrix in water content and flexibility.It would be very advantagoues for researchers to be able to regulate cell behavior and fate with specific hydrogels that have tunable mechanical properties as biophysical cues.Recent developments in dynamic chemistry have yielded designs of adaptable hydrogels that mimic dynamic nature of extracellular matrix.The current review provides a comprehensive overview for adaptable hydrogel in regenerative medicine as follows.First,we outline strategies to design adaptable hydrogel network with reversible linkages according to previous findings in supramolecular chemistry and dynamic covalent chemistry.Next,we describe the mechanism of dynamic mechanical microenvironment influence cell behaviors and fate,including how stress relaxation influences on cell behavior and how mechanosignals regulate matrix remodeling.Finally,we highlight techniques such as bioprinting which utilize adaptable hydrogel in regenerative medicine.We conclude by discussing the limitations and challenges for adaptable hydrogel,and we present perspectives for future studies.展开更多
For the purpose of overcoming the lack of durability problems associated with superhydrophobic surfaces which hitherto has limited their use;we prepared multi-stimuli wettability response coatings using a mixture of f...For the purpose of overcoming the lack of durability problems associated with superhydrophobic surfaces which hitherto has limited their use;we prepared multi-stimuli wettability response coatings using a mixture of fluorocarbon resin and urea-formaldehyde microcapsules filled with fluorosilane via interfacial polymerization process.The microcapsules are of good thermal stability and can be triggered to release their core content on exposure to atmospheric conditions resulting in the increase in the water contact angle from 97°to 151°.The prepared coatings gave good adhesion strength,and also showed an increase in the hydrophobic property after undergoing scratch,solvent and UV accelerated aging test.In addition,they offered good self-healing of the hydrophobic property after an initial loss due to alkaline immersion and oxygen plasma etching.The electrochemical measurements revealed a remarkable impedance recovery and suppression of corrosion activities,suggesting them to be a potential candidate material for corrosion protection.展开更多
Macroscopic assembly of graphene sheets has renovated the preparation of neat carbonaceous fbers with integrating high performance and superior functionalities,beyond the pyrolysis of conventional polymeric precursors...Macroscopic assembly of graphene sheets has renovated the preparation of neat carbonaceous fbers with integrating high performance and superior functionalities,beyond the pyrolysis of conventional polymeric precursors.To date,graphene microfbers by the liquid crystalline wet-spinning method have been established.However,how to reliably prepare continuous neat graphene nanofbers remains unknown.Here,we present the electrospinning of neat graphene nanofbers enabled by modulating colossally extensional fow state of graphene oxide liquid crystals.We use polymer with mega molecular weight as transient additives to realize the colossal extensional fow and electrospinning.The neat graphene nanofbers feature high electronic quality and crystallinity and exhibit high electrical conductivity of 2.02×10^(6) S/m that is to be comparable with single crystal graphite whisker.The electrospinning of graphene nanofbers was extended to prepare large-area fabric with high fexibility and superior specifc electrical/thermal conductivities.The electrospinning of graphene nanofbers opens the door to nanofbers of rich two-dimensional sheets and the neat graphene nanofbers may grow to be a new species after conventional carbonaceous nanofbers and whiskers in broad functional applications.展开更多
A series of diblock copolymers composed of methyl methacrylate and 2-perfluorooctylethyl methacry-late(PMMA144-b-PFMAn) with various PFMA block lengths were prepared by atom transfer radical po-lymerization(ATRP).The ...A series of diblock copolymers composed of methyl methacrylate and 2-perfluorooctylethyl methacry-late(PMMA144-b-PFMAn) with various PFMA block lengths were prepared by atom transfer radical po-lymerization(ATRP).The surface structures and properties of these polymers in the solid state and in solution were investigated using contact angle measurement,X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS),sum frequency generation(SFG) vibrational spectroscopy,surface tension and dynamic laser light scattering(DLS).It was found that with increasing PFMA block length,water and oil repellency de-creased,the ratio of F/C increased with increasing film depth,and the degree of ordered packing of the perfluoroalkyl side chains at the surface decreased.When the number of PFMA block units reached 10,PMMA segments were detected at the copolymer surface,which was attributed to the PFMA block length affecting molecular aggregation structure of the copolymer in the solution and the interfacial structure at the air/liquid interface,which in turn affects surface structure formation during solution solidification.The results suggest that copolymer solution properties play an important role in struc-ture formation on the solid surface.展开更多
It is exceedingly desired, but difficult to construct self-healing materials with both excellent mechanical properties and healing efficiency, which are usually realized by using mutually exclusive methods. Here, we r...It is exceedingly desired, but difficult to construct self-healing materials with both excellent mechanical properties and healing efficiency, which are usually realized by using mutually exclusive methods. Here, we reconcile this contradiction by utilizing copper-bis-(imidazole-2-yl)-methane-urea(Cu-BIMU) locked units based on novel designed dynamic imidazole-urea bonds with coupled multiple noncovalent bonds(coordination bonds, π-π stacking bonds, and hydrogen bonds). The coordination of Cu(II) greatly reduces the electron-cloud density of imidazole, which lowers the free energy barrier of imidazole-urea bonds and promotes their reversible dissociation, as demonstrated by the density functional theory and small-molecule model reaction. The topological design of Cu-BIMU polyurethane(Cu-BIMU-PU), which concentrates multiple crosslinking-in-one locked unit to avoid the formation of excessive crosslinking sites to ensure high chain mobility, facilitates self-healing. Accumulative extensive intermolecular interactions endowed excellent mechanical properties to the resulting Cu-BIMU-PU elastomer with a tensile strength of 65.3 MPa, among the highest ever-reported value. This work provides a novel molecular design principle for fabricating high-performance dynamic polymers.展开更多
Assembling two-dimensional(2D)sheets into macroscopic three-dimensional(3D)forms has created a promising material family with rich functionalities.Multiscale wrinkles are intrinsic features of 2D sheets in their 3D as...Assembling two-dimensional(2D)sheets into macroscopic three-dimensional(3D)forms has created a promising material family with rich functionalities.Multiscale wrinkles are intrinsic features of 2D sheets in their 3D assembles.Therefore,the precise wrinkling modulation optimizes the transition of outstanding properties of 2D sheets to expected performances of assembled materials and dominates their fabrication process.The wrinkling evolution of 2D sheets assembling onto flat surfaces has been extensively understood,however,the wrinkling behaviors on the more generally curved surface still remain unclear.Here,we investigate the wrinkling behaviors of graphene oxide sheets assembled onto curved surfaces and reveal the selection rule of wrinkling modes that determined by the curvature mismatch between 2D sheets and target surfaces.We uncover that three wrinkling modes including isotropic cracked land,labyrinth,and anisotropic curtain phases,respectively emerge on flat,spherical,and cylindrical surfaces.A favorable description paradigm is offered to quantitatively measure the complex wrinkling patterns and assess the curvature mismatch constraint underlying the wrinkling mode selection.This research provides a general and quantitative description framework of wrinkling modulation of 2D materials such as high performance graphene fibers,and guides the precise fabrication of particles and functional coatings.展开更多
Acid-Base Indicator, Turmeric Rhizome (Curcuma longa) was extracted from the root of a turmeric plant. The turmeric was peeled, washed and dried in an oven at 60°C. It was ground into powder and soaked in hot ...Acid-Base Indicator, Turmeric Rhizome (Curcuma longa) was extracted from the root of a turmeric plant. The turmeric was peeled, washed and dried in an oven at 60°C. It was ground into powder and soaked in hot and cold ethanol for the extraction. The extract was filtered and part of it was concentrated to yield a reasonable quantity of turmeric indicator. On standardization of acid with a base, 0.05 M base respectively of Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), sodium carbonate (Na<sub>2</sub>CO<sub>3</sub>) and Disodium borate (B<sub>4</sub>Na<sub>2</sub>O<sub>7</sub>) were used. Hot and cold extracts of turmeric were used as indicators and were compared with methyl orange and phenolphthalein. On the preliminary test carried out, hot and cold turmeric indicator showed yellow colour in acid medium and orange colour in the base. Methyl orange showed red colour in acid but yellow in the base, phenolphthalein was colourless in acid but pink in the base. During titration there were colour changes at the end points in the entire test carried out. The average volumes at ends points were calculated, the molar concentrations and mass concentrations of the acids used were also determined. The results showed that there was no difference between the natural indicators used and the existing synthetic indicators which are toxic to our environment.展开更多
Sulfate-reducing bacteria(SRB)has been pointed out as one of the causative agents of microbial induced corrosion in the marine environment.To address this problem,novel strategies are being experimented as against the...Sulfate-reducing bacteria(SRB)has been pointed out as one of the causative agents of microbial induced corrosion in the marine environment.To address this problem,novel strategies are being experimented as against the earlier methods which have been banned due to their toxic effects on useful aquatic lives.Thus,the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of non-toxic perfluorodecyltrichlorosilane(PFDTS)on resistance of hydrophobic poly(dimethylsiloxane)/phosphoric acid-treated zinc oxide(PDMS/PA-treated ZnO)coatings to SRB-induced biofouling and corrosion.The surface features of the coatings before and after exposure to SRB/NaCl solution were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy(SEM).Wettability of the coatings before and after exposure was also measured.The interaction of SRB with the coatings was investigated by FTIR spectroscopy.The resistance performance of the modified coatings against SRB-induced corrosion was monitored by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS).The EIS measurements revealed that 0.20 g PFDTS-based coating displayed highest corrosion resistance with impedance modulus of 6.301×10^10 after 15 d of exposure to SRB/NaCl medium.The results were corroborated by surface and chemical interaction analyses,and thus,indicate that 0.20 g PFDTSmodified PDMS/PA-treated ZnO coating has potentials for excellent SRB-induced corrosion resistance and anti-biofouling performance.展开更多
Telomeres cap ends of eukaryotic chromosomes prevent them from degradation and ensure genomic stability. Cdc13 is an essential telomere recruitment and maintenance protein. A temperature-sensitive point mutation in cd...Telomeres cap ends of eukaryotic chromosomes prevent them from degradation and ensure genomic stability. Cdc13 is an essential telomere recruitment and maintenance protein. A temperature-sensitive point mutation in cdc13 gene leads to telomere impairment, giving rise to cdc13-1 mutants that suffer lethality at enhanced temperatures. Deleting Exo1 gene from these mutants, however, leads to the emergence of temperature-tolerant mutants called survivors. Yeasts are known to exist as either diploids or haploids. These yeast genotypes generate survivors. The frequency of survivorship in the haploid genotype is one cell in 104 cells/generation at 36°C, however, the frequency at which they emerge in their diploid counterparts at the same temperature is not known. In this study, we investigated the frequency of Survivorship in heterozygous diploids of cdc13-1exo1Δ mutants of S. cerevisiae at 36°C. Diploids were constructed by mating haploid strains of opposite mating type cdc13-1 exo1:LEU strains with strains of cdc13-1 exo1:HIS. The crosses were 1296 × 3181, 2561 × 3182, 1296 × 3182 and 2561 × 3181. Genetic markers and phenotypic appearance were considered while mating the mutant cells. Using a stick, a smear of one haploid strain was made on each YEPD plate labelled C2, C8, C9, D1, D14, and D15. A smear of another opposite mating type was made on the previous strain. They were mixed and allowed to mate overnight, before culturing on media lacking Luecine and Histidine (-L and -H). Survivors were generated by culturing these diploids at 36°C. Using SPSS 20.0 software for windows SPSS, 2011, the frequency was determined as one Survivor cell in 72 cells/generation, as their frequency of survivorship averaged 5.9 × 10<sup>-</sup><sup>5</sup> ± 0.04.展开更多
The performance of local clay-titanium dioxide core-shell extender pigments in alkyd paints has been studied. The physico-mechanical properties of the prepared alkyd paints were evaluated according to ASTM measurement...The performance of local clay-titanium dioxide core-shell extender pigments in alkyd paints has been studied. The physico-mechanical properties of the prepared alkyd paints were evaluated according to ASTM measurements. The effects of various environmental and corrosive factors on the paints were also studied. The study showed that the alkyd paint samples formulated using the core-shell pigments generally had low specific gravity (1.30 – 1.38), an indication that more of the core-shell pigments can be incorporated into the alkyd paints with considerable cost savings. The dry film thicknesses of the paint samples falls within 0.24 - 0.39 mm, suggesting that the samples will perform well as anticorrosive coatings and their adhesion properties are generally good, showing that they can withstand abrasive and corrosive agents. The core-shell extender pigments formulated paint samples were observed to exhibit the best dust-free, tack-free, and through dry times compared to TiO<sub>2</sub> paint formulation. The formulated paint samples generally performed well on exposure to rain and sunlight as well as in distilled water, 2% Na<sub>2</sub>CO<sub>3</sub>, and 2% H<sub>2</sub>SO<sub>4</sub> with only TiO<sub>2</sub> paint formulation exhibiting rust. The good paint performance characteristics obtainable with the core-shell extender pigments are enough evidence to justify their utilization in the surface coatings industry. The performances of these core-shell extender pigments in alkyd paints have shown that they combine the properties of both the clays and titanium dioxide, and have the potential to overcome their disadvantages.展开更多
This paper presents the study of moisture content, hardness, bulk density, apparent porosity, tensile and flexural characteristics of composite properties of Luffa aegyptiaca fiber. Luffa aegyptiaca reinforced epoxy c...This paper presents the study of moisture content, hardness, bulk density, apparent porosity, tensile and flexural characteristics of composite properties of Luffa aegyptiaca fiber. Luffa aegyptiaca reinforced epoxy composites have been developed by hand lay-up method with Luffa fiber untreated and treated conditions for 12 Hrs and 24 Hrs in different filler loading as in 2:1 ratio (5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%). The effects of filler loading on the moisture content, hardness, bulk density, apparent porosity, tensile and flexural properties were studied. In general, the treated Luffa fibre composite for 24 Hrs showed better improvement properties via addition of modified Luffa fibre as reinforcement. However, tensile and flexural properties improved continuously with increasing filler loading up to 20% but decreasing at 25% due to weak interfacial bonding for both untreated and treated composite. The favourable results were obtained at 20% for treated composite at 24 Hrs especially at tensile and flexural characteristics and are suitable for mechanical applications.展开更多
In this present work, the study of mechanical and micro-structural effect on alkaline treated sponge gourd fibre epoxy composite has been investigated experimentally. Composite laminates are fabricated by hand lay-up ...In this present work, the study of mechanical and micro-structural effect on alkaline treated sponge gourd fibre epoxy composite has been investigated experimentally. Composite laminates are fabricated by hand lay-up technique. Scanning Electro Microscope analysis on the composite materials is performed. A group of neat epoxy samples is fabricated for comparison purpose. Samples are analysed for their mechanical properties to establish an alkaline effect on sponge gourd. Indeed, a maximum value of strength and strain is observed over 20% filler loading for 24 hrs treated fibre composite.展开更多
The effects of incorporating pineapple leaf fibre (PLF) as a filler on the end-end properties of natural rubber vulcanizates were studied at different filler contents and particle sizes. The pineapple leaf fibre was u...The effects of incorporating pineapple leaf fibre (PLF) as a filler on the end-end properties of natural rubber vulcanizates were studied at different filler contents and particle sizes. The pineapple leaf fibre was used within filler contents, 0 to 40 phr at the following filler particle sizes, 75, 150 and 300 μm. The PLF was characterized for filler properties while carbon black (N330) served as the reference filler. The natural rubber vulcanizates were compounded on a two-roll mill. Results showed that the abrasion resistance of filled natural rubber vulcanizates was generally higher than that of the unfilled natural rubber vulcanizate at filler content, 5 phr, and for PLF (150 and 300 μm) and carbon black filled natural rubber vulcanizates, the abrasion resistance decreased within filler content, 5 to 20 phr after which it increased with filler content. CB exhibited better abrasion resistance in the vulcanizates than PLF at filler contents greater than 20 phr. The hardness of filled natural rubber vulccanizates was generally greater than that of unfilled vulcanizate and increased with increases in filler particle size at filler contents, 10 and 20 phr. The specific gravity of the rubber vulcanizates increased gradually with the increase in filler content at filler content greater than 5 phr, and increased with increases in filler particle size at any filler content considered. The swelling index of filled natural rubber vulcanizates in toluene generally decreased with increasing filler particle size at filler contents, 5, 10 and 40 phr whereas the swelling index for PLF (150 μm) filled natural rubber decreased with increases in filler content. CB filled vulcanizates absorbed the highest amount of toluene (2.5%) in the vulcanizates at filler content, 40 phr. PLF (150 and 300 μm) generally gave optimum performances in the end-use properties of the rubber vulcanizates determined within filler contents, 30 and 40 phr. The incorporation of pineapple leaf fibre into natural rubber was found to improve the end-u展开更多
1 Introduction Metallophthalocyanine(M-pc)have structures similar to active centerHemeenaymes such as oxidase,oxygenase,catalasse and peroxidase.We havestudied the synthesis of functional metallophthalocyanines and th...1 Introduction Metallophthalocyanine(M-pc)have structures similar to active centerHemeenaymes such as oxidase,oxygenase,catalasse and peroxidase.We havestudied the synthesis of functional metallophthalocyanines and their polymersand their catalase-like as well as peroxidase activities as enzyme modeles 1)-展开更多
A fully characterised natural rubber latex was subjected to mechanical degradation by stirring at intervals. The resistance to oxidative degradation of the different samples were studied by measuring the Plasticity r...A fully characterised natural rubber latex was subjected to mechanical degradation by stirring at intervals. The resistance to oxidative degradation of the different samples were studied by measuring the Plasticity retention indices (PRI). The results show that there is an enhancement of the PRI from 57% for the undegraded rubber to 79% for the one-hour degraded sample. Further degradation resulted in decrease of PRI as time of degradation increased. Therefore, the one-hour degraded sample is a special rubber with high oxidation resistance which is of great importance in engineering. (Author abstract) 9 Refs.展开更多
Extraction of dye from dry fruit of Rothmannia whitfieldii was carried out using four different extraction methods. Solvent and acid extraction methods gave a colourless supernatant solution after extraction time of 4...Extraction of dye from dry fruit of Rothmannia whitfieldii was carried out using four different extraction methods. Solvent and acid extraction methods gave a colourless supernatant solution after extraction time of 45 minutes at 60°C. The alkali method gave a deep brown coloured supernatant solution while the aqueous method gave a dark coloured supernatant solution after extraction under the same conditions. From the result of the FTIR spectroscopy characterization of the coloured solutions and the dry powder of Rothmannia whitfieldii fruit, it was observed that only the alkali method extracted what can be called a dye with likely presence of tannins. The result also showed that the possible functional groups present in the supernatant solution after aqueous extraction are same with the functional groups present in the dry pulverized Rothmannia whitfieldii fruit. Hence, aqueous method did not extract any dye. Similarly, a mixture of the solution after aqueous extraction with drops of alkali solution produced a deep brown coloured solution indicating solubility of the dye component in alkali media.展开更多
The extender properties of some Nigeria clays have been studied. The local clays were characterized using X-ray fluorescence and scanning electron microscope. The physico-chemical properties of the clays were evaluate...The extender properties of some Nigeria clays have been studied. The local clays were characterized using X-ray fluorescence and scanning electron microscope. The physico-chemical properties of the clays were evaluated using ASTM standards. The physico-chemical characterization of the local clays gave the following results: specific gravity (2.54 and 2.49), oil absorption (51.0 and 59.0 g/100g), refractive index (1.7 and 2.0) and pH (5.1 and 4.8) for Nsu and Ihitte-Uboma clays respectively. Compositional analysis showed that the clays consisted predominantly of silica (SiO2) and aluminium oxide (Al2O3) in high proportions with the other constituents present in very small proportions. The clays were stable to heat and insoluble in toluene, methanol, ethanol, 2-propanol, chloroform and hydrochloric acidexcept for their slight solubility in acetic acid. The colour of the clays was not affected in cold or when heated except for slight colour change observed in the presence of hydrochloric acid when heated. The particle morphology of the clays indicated the presence of sub-angular platelet of varying sizes. The optimum calcination temperature of the clays was determined to be 850°C for use in oil-based paints. The clays can be used in gloss paints, rubber and plastic composites and as an adsorbent with improved properties.展开更多
This study modeled some mechanical properties of clay powder filled recycled low-density polyethylene, rLDPE (rLDPE composite). The rLDPE is commonly referred to as used sachet water bags. The clay powder (filler) was...This study modeled some mechanical properties of clay powder filled recycled low-density polyethylene, rLDPE (rLDPE composite). The rLDPE is commonly referred to as used sachet water bags. The clay powder (filler) was obtained by sun-drying, grinding, and sieving. Two particle sizes of clay powder were used: <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>90 μm and <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>425 μm to represent the passing sizes at different clay powder contents of 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt% which were thoroughly mixed with the recycled low-density polyethylene in an injection molding machine at 173<span style="white-space:nowrap;">°</span>C. The results showed that the tensile strength, tensile modulus, hardness, flexural strength, fatigue strength and hardness increased with increase in clay powder contents. However, there were decreases in strain-at-breakage and shear strength as clay powder content increased. Model equations showed that smaller particle size enhanced the mechanical properties and equations generated can be used to predict the properties of composites at predetermined clay contents. Standard deviations obtained for the various mechanical properties show that the model, in most cases had the lowest degree of scatter (dispersion) than those of <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>90 μm and <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>425 μm. Hence, these models are suitable to predict outcomes of the properties of the clay filled recycled low-density polyethylene composites.展开更多
AIM： To investigate the change of bone parameters in a new model of experimentally induced liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma （HCC） in growing rats. METHODS： Fischer-344 rats （n = 55） were used. Carbon...AIM： To investigate the change of bone parameters in a new model of experimentally induced liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma （HCC） in growing rats. METHODS： Fischer-344 rats （n = 55） were used. Carbon tetrachloride （CCh）, phenobarbital （PB）, and a single diethylnitrosamine （DEN） injection were used. Animals were killed at wk 8 and 16. Bone mineral content, femoral length, cortical index （quotient of cortical thickness and whole diameter） and ultimate bending load （Fmax） of the femora were determined. The results in animals treated with DEN＋PB＋CCh （DPC, n = 21） were com- pared to those in untreated animals （UNT, n = 14） and in control group treated only with DEN＋PB （DP, n = 20）. RESULTS： Fatty liver and cirrhosis developed in each DPC-treated rat at wk 8 and HCC was presented at wk 16. No skeletal changes were found in this group at wk 8, but each parameter was lower （P〈0.05 for each） at wk 16 in comparison to the control group. Neither fatty liver nor cirrhosis was observed in DP-treated animals at any time point. Femoral length and Fmax values were higher （P〈0.05 for both） in DP-treated animals at wk 8 compared to the UNT controls. However, no difference was found at wk 16. CONCLUSION： Experimental liver cirrhosis and HCC are accompanied with inhibited skeletal growth, reduced bone mass, and decreased mechanical resistance in growing rats. Our results are in concordance withthe data of other studies using different animal models. A novel finding is the transiently accelerated skeletal growth and bone strength after a 8-wk long phenobarbital treatment following diethylnitrosamine injection.展开更多
This study involved the use of uncarbonised and carbonised coir in preparing composites of a given polymer. In this case natural rubber (NR) was used. Uncarbonised coir (UC) and carbonised coir (CC) were separately us...This study involved the use of uncarbonised and carbonised coir in preparing composites of a given polymer. In this case natural rubber (NR) was used. Uncarbonised coir (UC) and carbonised coir (CC) were separately used to prepare the polymer composites. Carbon black (CB) was also used differently and the filler loadings for all varied between 0 and 50 phr. Before using the uncarbonised coir and carbonised coir, they were characterised on the basis of moisture content, pH, particles size and surface area. The properties of the various composite samples prepared were then investigated. The results of the tests obtained for the NR-UC composites were compared with those of NR-CC and also with those of NR-CB composites. It was observed that for hardness, the results obtained from composites of UC and CC fillers showed similar trends with those of carbon black (CB) reinforced composites, increasing with increase in filler volume. For the tensile strength and modulus a trend of slight rise was observed. There were no sharp rises in values as filler volumes were increased. UC and CC fillers were observed to impart very poorly on the tensile strength and modulus relative to the CB reinforced composites. The results from test for elongation, compression set and flex fatigue showed a falling trend for all the fillers to a comparable level with CB. It was generally observed that the uncarbonised coir presented better potentials for reinforcement than the carbonised coir.展开更多
基金support of the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2016YFE0132700)National Natural Science Foundation of China(51822306,51673171)+1 种基金Science Technology Department of Zhejiang Province(2020C03042)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities of China.
文摘Hydrogels are three-dimensional platforms that serve as substitutes for native extracellular matrix.These materials are starting to play important roles in regenerative medicine because of their similarities to native matrix in water content and flexibility.It would be very advantagoues for researchers to be able to regulate cell behavior and fate with specific hydrogels that have tunable mechanical properties as biophysical cues.Recent developments in dynamic chemistry have yielded designs of adaptable hydrogels that mimic dynamic nature of extracellular matrix.The current review provides a comprehensive overview for adaptable hydrogel in regenerative medicine as follows.First,we outline strategies to design adaptable hydrogel network with reversible linkages according to previous findings in supramolecular chemistry and dynamic covalent chemistry.Next,we describe the mechanism of dynamic mechanical microenvironment influence cell behaviors and fate,including how stress relaxation influences on cell behavior and how mechanosignals regulate matrix remodeling.Finally,we highlight techniques such as bioprinting which utilize adaptable hydrogel in regenerative medicine.We conclude by discussing the limitations and challenges for adaptable hydrogel,and we present perspectives for future studies.
基金financial support from the Shenyang Science and Technology Plan Project(Y17-1-039)。
文摘For the purpose of overcoming the lack of durability problems associated with superhydrophobic surfaces which hitherto has limited their use;we prepared multi-stimuli wettability response coatings using a mixture of fluorocarbon resin and urea-formaldehyde microcapsules filled with fluorosilane via interfacial polymerization process.The microcapsules are of good thermal stability and can be triggered to release their core content on exposure to atmospheric conditions resulting in the increase in the water contact angle from 97°to 151°.The prepared coatings gave good adhesion strength,and also showed an increase in the hydrophobic property after undergoing scratch,solvent and UV accelerated aging test.In addition,they offered good self-healing of the hydrophobic property after an initial loss due to alkaline immersion and oxygen plasma etching.The electrochemical measurements revealed a remarkable impedance recovery and suppression of corrosion activities,suggesting them to be a potential candidate material for corrosion protection.
基金This work is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52090030,51973191,51533008,51803177 and 51873191)Hundred Talents Program of Zhejiang University(188020*194231701/113)+7 种基金National Key R&D Program of China(No.2016YFA0200200)Key research and development plan of Zhejiang Province(2018C01049)Fujian Provincial Science and Technology Major Projects(NO.2018HZ0001-2)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(NO.K20200060)Key Laboratory of Novel Adsorption and Separation Materials and Application Technology of Zhejiang Province(512301-I21502)Shandong Provincial Natural Science Foundation(ZR2019YQ19)Project of Shandong Province Higher Educational Science and Technology Program(2019KJA026)State Key Laboratory for Modifcation of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials,Donghua University(KF2110).
文摘Macroscopic assembly of graphene sheets has renovated the preparation of neat carbonaceous fbers with integrating high performance and superior functionalities,beyond the pyrolysis of conventional polymeric precursors.To date,graphene microfbers by the liquid crystalline wet-spinning method have been established.However,how to reliably prepare continuous neat graphene nanofbers remains unknown.Here,we present the electrospinning of neat graphene nanofbers enabled by modulating colossally extensional fow state of graphene oxide liquid crystals.We use polymer with mega molecular weight as transient additives to realize the colossal extensional fow and electrospinning.The neat graphene nanofbers feature high electronic quality and crystallinity and exhibit high electrical conductivity of 2.02×10^(6) S/m that is to be comparable with single crystal graphite whisker.The electrospinning of graphene nanofbers was extended to prepare large-area fabric with high fexibility and superior specifc electrical/thermal conductivities.The electrospinning of graphene nanofbers opens the door to nanofbers of rich two-dimensional sheets and the neat graphene nanofbers may grow to be a new species after conventional carbonaceous nanofbers and whiskers in broad functional applications.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos. 50573069 and 20704038)Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University (Grant No.IRT 0654)
文摘A series of diblock copolymers composed of methyl methacrylate and 2-perfluorooctylethyl methacry-late(PMMA144-b-PFMAn) with various PFMA block lengths were prepared by atom transfer radical po-lymerization(ATRP).The surface structures and properties of these polymers in the solid state and in solution were investigated using contact angle measurement,X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS),sum frequency generation(SFG) vibrational spectroscopy,surface tension and dynamic laser light scattering(DLS).It was found that with increasing PFMA block length,water and oil repellency de-creased,the ratio of F/C increased with increasing film depth,and the degree of ordered packing of the perfluoroalkyl side chains at the surface decreased.When the number of PFMA block units reached 10,PMMA segments were detected at the copolymer surface,which was attributed to the PFMA block length affecting molecular aggregation structure of the copolymer in the solution and the interfacial structure at the air/liquid interface,which in turn affects surface structure formation during solution solidification.The results suggest that copolymer solution properties play an important role in struc-ture formation on the solid surface.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFC2101800)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(52173117,21991123)+4 种基金the Belt&Road Young Scientist Exchanges Project of Science and Technology Commission Foundation of Shanghai(20520741000)the Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai(20ZR1402500)the Ningbo 2025 Science and Technology Major Project(2019B10068)the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai(20DZ2254900,20DZ2270800)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,DHU Distinguished Young Professor Program(LZA2019001).
文摘It is exceedingly desired, but difficult to construct self-healing materials with both excellent mechanical properties and healing efficiency, which are usually realized by using mutually exclusive methods. Here, we reconcile this contradiction by utilizing copper-bis-(imidazole-2-yl)-methane-urea(Cu-BIMU) locked units based on novel designed dynamic imidazole-urea bonds with coupled multiple noncovalent bonds(coordination bonds, π-π stacking bonds, and hydrogen bonds). The coordination of Cu(II) greatly reduces the electron-cloud density of imidazole, which lowers the free energy barrier of imidazole-urea bonds and promotes their reversible dissociation, as demonstrated by the density functional theory and small-molecule model reaction. The topological design of Cu-BIMU polyurethane(Cu-BIMU-PU), which concentrates multiple crosslinking-in-one locked unit to avoid the formation of excessive crosslinking sites to ensure high chain mobility, facilitates self-healing. Accumulative extensive intermolecular interactions endowed excellent mechanical properties to the resulting Cu-BIMU-PU elastomer with a tensile strength of 65.3 MPa, among the highest ever-reported value. This work provides a novel molecular design principle for fabricating high-performance dynamic polymers.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.52122301,51973191,52090030,and 51533008)Hundred Talents Program of Zhejiang University(No.188020*194231701/113)+2 种基金Key Research and Development Plan of Zhejiang Province(No.2018C01049)Shanxi-Zheda Institute of New Materials and Chemical Engineering(No.2012SZ-FR004)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(Nos.K20200060,2017QNA4036,and 2017XZZX001-04).
文摘Assembling two-dimensional(2D)sheets into macroscopic three-dimensional(3D)forms has created a promising material family with rich functionalities.Multiscale wrinkles are intrinsic features of 2D sheets in their 3D assembles.Therefore,the precise wrinkling modulation optimizes the transition of outstanding properties of 2D sheets to expected performances of assembled materials and dominates their fabrication process.The wrinkling evolution of 2D sheets assembling onto flat surfaces has been extensively understood,however,the wrinkling behaviors on the more generally curved surface still remain unclear.Here,we investigate the wrinkling behaviors of graphene oxide sheets assembled onto curved surfaces and reveal the selection rule of wrinkling modes that determined by the curvature mismatch between 2D sheets and target surfaces.We uncover that three wrinkling modes including isotropic cracked land,labyrinth,and anisotropic curtain phases,respectively emerge on flat,spherical,and cylindrical surfaces.A favorable description paradigm is offered to quantitatively measure the complex wrinkling patterns and assess the curvature mismatch constraint underlying the wrinkling mode selection.This research provides a general and quantitative description framework of wrinkling modulation of 2D materials such as high performance graphene fibers,and guides the precise fabrication of particles and functional coatings.
文摘Acid-Base Indicator, Turmeric Rhizome (Curcuma longa) was extracted from the root of a turmeric plant. The turmeric was peeled, washed and dried in an oven at 60°C. It was ground into powder and soaked in hot and cold ethanol for the extraction. The extract was filtered and part of it was concentrated to yield a reasonable quantity of turmeric indicator. On standardization of acid with a base, 0.05 M base respectively of Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), sodium carbonate (Na<sub>2</sub>CO<sub>3</sub>) and Disodium borate (B<sub>4</sub>Na<sub>2</sub>O<sub>7</sub>) were used. Hot and cold extracts of turmeric were used as indicators and were compared with methyl orange and phenolphthalein. On the preliminary test carried out, hot and cold turmeric indicator showed yellow colour in acid medium and orange colour in the base. Methyl orange showed red colour in acid but yellow in the base, phenolphthalein was colourless in acid but pink in the base. During titration there were colour changes at the end points in the entire test carried out. The average volumes at ends points were calculated, the molar concentrations and mass concentrations of the acids used were also determined. The results showed that there was no difference between the natural indicators used and the existing synthetic indicators which are toxic to our environment.
基金supported financially by the Chinese Academy of Sciences–President’s International Fellowship Initiative for Postdoctoral Research(No.2015PT005)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.51650110506 and 51871227)the Research Fund of Open Studio for Marine Corrosion and Protection and Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology(Qingdao)。
文摘Sulfate-reducing bacteria(SRB)has been pointed out as one of the causative agents of microbial induced corrosion in the marine environment.To address this problem,novel strategies are being experimented as against the earlier methods which have been banned due to their toxic effects on useful aquatic lives.Thus,the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of non-toxic perfluorodecyltrichlorosilane(PFDTS)on resistance of hydrophobic poly(dimethylsiloxane)/phosphoric acid-treated zinc oxide(PDMS/PA-treated ZnO)coatings to SRB-induced biofouling and corrosion.The surface features of the coatings before and after exposure to SRB/NaCl solution were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy(SEM).Wettability of the coatings before and after exposure was also measured.The interaction of SRB with the coatings was investigated by FTIR spectroscopy.The resistance performance of the modified coatings against SRB-induced corrosion was monitored by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS).The EIS measurements revealed that 0.20 g PFDTS-based coating displayed highest corrosion resistance with impedance modulus of 6.301×10^10 after 15 d of exposure to SRB/NaCl medium.The results were corroborated by surface and chemical interaction analyses,and thus,indicate that 0.20 g PFDTSmodified PDMS/PA-treated ZnO coating has potentials for excellent SRB-induced corrosion resistance and anti-biofouling performance.
文摘Telomeres cap ends of eukaryotic chromosomes prevent them from degradation and ensure genomic stability. Cdc13 is an essential telomere recruitment and maintenance protein. A temperature-sensitive point mutation in cdc13 gene leads to telomere impairment, giving rise to cdc13-1 mutants that suffer lethality at enhanced temperatures. Deleting Exo1 gene from these mutants, however, leads to the emergence of temperature-tolerant mutants called survivors. Yeasts are known to exist as either diploids or haploids. These yeast genotypes generate survivors. The frequency of survivorship in the haploid genotype is one cell in 104 cells/generation at 36°C, however, the frequency at which they emerge in their diploid counterparts at the same temperature is not known. In this study, we investigated the frequency of Survivorship in heterozygous diploids of cdc13-1exo1Δ mutants of S. cerevisiae at 36°C. Diploids were constructed by mating haploid strains of opposite mating type cdc13-1 exo1:LEU strains with strains of cdc13-1 exo1:HIS. The crosses were 1296 × 3181, 2561 × 3182, 1296 × 3182 and 2561 × 3181. Genetic markers and phenotypic appearance were considered while mating the mutant cells. Using a stick, a smear of one haploid strain was made on each YEPD plate labelled C2, C8, C9, D1, D14, and D15. A smear of another opposite mating type was made on the previous strain. They were mixed and allowed to mate overnight, before culturing on media lacking Luecine and Histidine (-L and -H). Survivors were generated by culturing these diploids at 36°C. Using SPSS 20.0 software for windows SPSS, 2011, the frequency was determined as one Survivor cell in 72 cells/generation, as their frequency of survivorship averaged 5.9 × 10<sup>-</sup><sup>5</sup> ± 0.04.
文摘The performance of local clay-titanium dioxide core-shell extender pigments in alkyd paints has been studied. The physico-mechanical properties of the prepared alkyd paints were evaluated according to ASTM measurements. The effects of various environmental and corrosive factors on the paints were also studied. The study showed that the alkyd paint samples formulated using the core-shell pigments generally had low specific gravity (1.30 – 1.38), an indication that more of the core-shell pigments can be incorporated into the alkyd paints with considerable cost savings. The dry film thicknesses of the paint samples falls within 0.24 - 0.39 mm, suggesting that the samples will perform well as anticorrosive coatings and their adhesion properties are generally good, showing that they can withstand abrasive and corrosive agents. The core-shell extender pigments formulated paint samples were observed to exhibit the best dust-free, tack-free, and through dry times compared to TiO<sub>2</sub> paint formulation. The formulated paint samples generally performed well on exposure to rain and sunlight as well as in distilled water, 2% Na<sub>2</sub>CO<sub>3</sub>, and 2% H<sub>2</sub>SO<sub>4</sub> with only TiO<sub>2</sub> paint formulation exhibiting rust. The good paint performance characteristics obtainable with the core-shell extender pigments are enough evidence to justify their utilization in the surface coatings industry. The performances of these core-shell extender pigments in alkyd paints have shown that they combine the properties of both the clays and titanium dioxide, and have the potential to overcome their disadvantages.
文摘This paper presents the study of moisture content, hardness, bulk density, apparent porosity, tensile and flexural characteristics of composite properties of Luffa aegyptiaca fiber. Luffa aegyptiaca reinforced epoxy composites have been developed by hand lay-up method with Luffa fiber untreated and treated conditions for 12 Hrs and 24 Hrs in different filler loading as in 2:1 ratio (5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%). The effects of filler loading on the moisture content, hardness, bulk density, apparent porosity, tensile and flexural properties were studied. In general, the treated Luffa fibre composite for 24 Hrs showed better improvement properties via addition of modified Luffa fibre as reinforcement. However, tensile and flexural properties improved continuously with increasing filler loading up to 20% but decreasing at 25% due to weak interfacial bonding for both untreated and treated composite. The favourable results were obtained at 20% for treated composite at 24 Hrs especially at tensile and flexural characteristics and are suitable for mechanical applications.
文摘In this present work, the study of mechanical and micro-structural effect on alkaline treated sponge gourd fibre epoxy composite has been investigated experimentally. Composite laminates are fabricated by hand lay-up technique. Scanning Electro Microscope analysis on the composite materials is performed. A group of neat epoxy samples is fabricated for comparison purpose. Samples are analysed for their mechanical properties to establish an alkaline effect on sponge gourd. Indeed, a maximum value of strength and strain is observed over 20% filler loading for 24 hrs treated fibre composite.
文摘The effects of incorporating pineapple leaf fibre (PLF) as a filler on the end-end properties of natural rubber vulcanizates were studied at different filler contents and particle sizes. The pineapple leaf fibre was used within filler contents, 0 to 40 phr at the following filler particle sizes, 75, 150 and 300 μm. The PLF was characterized for filler properties while carbon black (N330) served as the reference filler. The natural rubber vulcanizates were compounded on a two-roll mill. Results showed that the abrasion resistance of filled natural rubber vulcanizates was generally higher than that of the unfilled natural rubber vulcanizate at filler content, 5 phr, and for PLF (150 and 300 μm) and carbon black filled natural rubber vulcanizates, the abrasion resistance decreased within filler content, 5 to 20 phr after which it increased with filler content. CB exhibited better abrasion resistance in the vulcanizates than PLF at filler contents greater than 20 phr. The hardness of filled natural rubber vulccanizates was generally greater than that of unfilled vulcanizate and increased with increases in filler particle size at filler contents, 10 and 20 phr. The specific gravity of the rubber vulcanizates increased gradually with the increase in filler content at filler content greater than 5 phr, and increased with increases in filler particle size at any filler content considered. The swelling index of filled natural rubber vulcanizates in toluene generally decreased with increasing filler particle size at filler contents, 5, 10 and 40 phr whereas the swelling index for PLF (150 μm) filled natural rubber decreased with increases in filler content. CB filled vulcanizates absorbed the highest amount of toluene (2.5%) in the vulcanizates at filler content, 40 phr. PLF (150 and 300 μm) generally gave optimum performances in the end-use properties of the rubber vulcanizates determined within filler contents, 30 and 40 phr. The incorporation of pineapple leaf fibre into natural rubber was found to improve the end-u
文摘1 Introduction Metallophthalocyanine(M-pc)have structures similar to active centerHemeenaymes such as oxidase,oxygenase,catalasse and peroxidase.We havestudied the synthesis of functional metallophthalocyanines and their polymersand their catalase-like as well as peroxidase activities as enzyme modeles 1)-
文摘A fully characterised natural rubber latex was subjected to mechanical degradation by stirring at intervals. The resistance to oxidative degradation of the different samples were studied by measuring the Plasticity retention indices (PRI). The results show that there is an enhancement of the PRI from 57% for the undegraded rubber to 79% for the one-hour degraded sample. Further degradation resulted in decrease of PRI as time of degradation increased. Therefore, the one-hour degraded sample is a special rubber with high oxidation resistance which is of great importance in engineering. (Author abstract) 9 Refs.
文摘Extraction of dye from dry fruit of Rothmannia whitfieldii was carried out using four different extraction methods. Solvent and acid extraction methods gave a colourless supernatant solution after extraction time of 45 minutes at 60°C. The alkali method gave a deep brown coloured supernatant solution while the aqueous method gave a dark coloured supernatant solution after extraction under the same conditions. From the result of the FTIR spectroscopy characterization of the coloured solutions and the dry powder of Rothmannia whitfieldii fruit, it was observed that only the alkali method extracted what can be called a dye with likely presence of tannins. The result also showed that the possible functional groups present in the supernatant solution after aqueous extraction are same with the functional groups present in the dry pulverized Rothmannia whitfieldii fruit. Hence, aqueous method did not extract any dye. Similarly, a mixture of the solution after aqueous extraction with drops of alkali solution produced a deep brown coloured solution indicating solubility of the dye component in alkali media.
文摘The extender properties of some Nigeria clays have been studied. The local clays were characterized using X-ray fluorescence and scanning electron microscope. The physico-chemical properties of the clays were evaluated using ASTM standards. The physico-chemical characterization of the local clays gave the following results: specific gravity (2.54 and 2.49), oil absorption (51.0 and 59.0 g/100g), refractive index (1.7 and 2.0) and pH (5.1 and 4.8) for Nsu and Ihitte-Uboma clays respectively. Compositional analysis showed that the clays consisted predominantly of silica (SiO2) and aluminium oxide (Al2O3) in high proportions with the other constituents present in very small proportions. The clays were stable to heat and insoluble in toluene, methanol, ethanol, 2-propanol, chloroform and hydrochloric acidexcept for their slight solubility in acetic acid. The colour of the clays was not affected in cold or when heated except for slight colour change observed in the presence of hydrochloric acid when heated. The particle morphology of the clays indicated the presence of sub-angular platelet of varying sizes. The optimum calcination temperature of the clays was determined to be 850°C for use in oil-based paints. The clays can be used in gloss paints, rubber and plastic composites and as an adsorbent with improved properties.
文摘This study modeled some mechanical properties of clay powder filled recycled low-density polyethylene, rLDPE (rLDPE composite). The rLDPE is commonly referred to as used sachet water bags. The clay powder (filler) was obtained by sun-drying, grinding, and sieving. Two particle sizes of clay powder were used: <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>90 μm and <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>425 μm to represent the passing sizes at different clay powder contents of 5, 10, 15 and 20 wt% which were thoroughly mixed with the recycled low-density polyethylene in an injection molding machine at 173<span style="white-space:nowrap;">°</span>C. The results showed that the tensile strength, tensile modulus, hardness, flexural strength, fatigue strength and hardness increased with increase in clay powder contents. However, there were decreases in strain-at-breakage and shear strength as clay powder content increased. Model equations showed that smaller particle size enhanced the mechanical properties and equations generated can be used to predict the properties of composites at predetermined clay contents. Standard deviations obtained for the various mechanical properties show that the model, in most cases had the lowest degree of scatter (dispersion) than those of <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>90 μm and <span style="white-space:nowrap;">−</span>425 μm. Hence, these models are suitable to predict outcomes of the properties of the clay filled recycled low-density polyethylene composites.
基金Supported by The Medical Research Council of Hungary, ETT 226/2003, 232/2003The Hungarian Scientific Research Fund, OTKA T038067, T038154
文摘AIM： To investigate the change of bone parameters in a new model of experimentally induced liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma （HCC） in growing rats. METHODS： Fischer-344 rats （n = 55） were used. Carbon tetrachloride （CCh）, phenobarbital （PB）, and a single diethylnitrosamine （DEN） injection were used. Animals were killed at wk 8 and 16. Bone mineral content, femoral length, cortical index （quotient of cortical thickness and whole diameter） and ultimate bending load （Fmax） of the femora were determined. The results in animals treated with DEN＋PB＋CCh （DPC, n = 21） were com- pared to those in untreated animals （UNT, n = 14） and in control group treated only with DEN＋PB （DP, n = 20）. RESULTS： Fatty liver and cirrhosis developed in each DPC-treated rat at wk 8 and HCC was presented at wk 16. No skeletal changes were found in this group at wk 8, but each parameter was lower （P〈0.05 for each） at wk 16 in comparison to the control group. Neither fatty liver nor cirrhosis was observed in DP-treated animals at any time point. Femoral length and Fmax values were higher （P〈0.05 for both） in DP-treated animals at wk 8 compared to the UNT controls. However, no difference was found at wk 16. CONCLUSION： Experimental liver cirrhosis and HCC are accompanied with inhibited skeletal growth, reduced bone mass, and decreased mechanical resistance in growing rats. Our results are in concordance withthe data of other studies using different animal models. A novel finding is the transiently accelerated skeletal growth and bone strength after a 8-wk long phenobarbital treatment following diethylnitrosamine injection.
文摘This study involved the use of uncarbonised and carbonised coir in preparing composites of a given polymer. In this case natural rubber (NR) was used. Uncarbonised coir (UC) and carbonised coir (CC) were separately used to prepare the polymer composites. Carbon black (CB) was also used differently and the filler loadings for all varied between 0 and 50 phr. Before using the uncarbonised coir and carbonised coir, they were characterised on the basis of moisture content, pH, particles size and surface area. The properties of the various composite samples prepared were then investigated. The results of the tests obtained for the NR-UC composites were compared with those of NR-CC and also with those of NR-CB composites. It was observed that for hardness, the results obtained from composites of UC and CC fillers showed similar trends with those of carbon black (CB) reinforced composites, increasing with increase in filler volume. For the tensile strength and modulus a trend of slight rise was observed. There were no sharp rises in values as filler volumes were increased. UC and CC fillers were observed to impart very poorly on the tensile strength and modulus relative to the CB reinforced composites. The results from test for elongation, compression set and flex fatigue showed a falling trend for all the fillers to a comparable level with CB. It was generally observed that the uncarbonised coir presented better potentials for reinforcement than the carbonised coir.
