Search

In this study, we investigate the dynamics properties of spin-1 ferromagnetic Bose–Einstein condensates (BECs) with dipole–dipole interaction (DDI). Numerical results are obtained by solving the mean-field nonlocal Gross–Pitaevskii equation. We find that the population of the information entropy in momentum space S k is greatly affected by geometric structure and dipole strength. The prolate condensate is favorable to obtain bigger S k than oblate condensate. The density distribution verifies that the formation of magnetic domain is associated with the variation of S k . In addition, the kinetic energy displays that dramatical oscillation appears for strong dipolar interaction and it is larger in prolate condensate. Also, we use the order parameter to describe the order–disorder crossover. It is shown that BECs develop toward the disordered state with prolate condensate under strong DDI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucommia ulmoides gum (EUG) is an essential bio-based material with a similar chemical structure to natural rubber, but it is rigid plastic at room temperature due to crystallization, which limits its wide application. Herein, we report a new method for synthesis of functional Eucommia ulmoides ester (EUET) elastomer by chemical modification of EUG. First, EUG was epoxidized by performic acid formed from hydrogen peroxide and formic acid in situ in toluene solution and then subjected to ring-opening reaction with acetic acid. It was found that EUET contained both α-hydroxyl ester and β-hydroxyl ester in the molecular chain. Unlike EUG, EUET was no longer crystallized due to the reduction of regularity, and it has been successfully converted into elastomer, which was confirmed by the elastic strain recovery experiment. Furthermore, because of the presence of polar groups and the hydrogen bond between them, EUET could self-heal under the condition of 50 °C, and their vulcanizates possessed excellent mechanical properties, resilience, oil resistance and damping properties. This study may promote the application of EUG in the field of bio-based functional elastomers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

5-(4-Azidofurazan-3-yl)-1-hydroxytetrazole (4) and its ammonium (4a), hydroxylammonium (4b), and hydrazinium (4c) salts were synthesized. Each compound was characterized by X-ray single crystal structure diffraction, infrared (IR), and 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, elemental analyses, thermal stability, and sensitivity to external stimulants. Crystal structures and packing coefficients were analyzed and compared with respect to π–π stacking and hydrogen bonding. Due to the presence of lattice water in compound 4, the impact sensitivity (IS = 15 J) and friction sensitivity (FS = 120 N) are notably lower than those of the anhydrous material (IS = 3 J, FS = 20 N), which could act as a primary explosive. In this way, the primary explosive could be synthesized, transported, and stored more safely than traditional primary explosives. The detonation properties determined by EXPLO 6.02 software show that among the four compounds, 4b has superior detonation velocity (Vd = 9201 m s−1) and pressure (P = 36.0 GPa) values which are comparable to those of HMX (octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine). The impact sensitivity (10 J) is less-sensitive than HMX (7.5 J), which suggests compound 4b as a potential alternative to HMX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The mechanism of the volume shrinkage of gutta-percha (GP) point was investigated from the viewpoints of crystalline phase transition of GP and thermal expansion and contraction of thermal-conductive filler. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was employed to calculate the volume shrinkage rate (VSR) of GP point indirectly by determining enthalpy changes that were caused by the crystalline phase transition. Volume dilatometer was utilized to determine the VSR directly to verify the result of DSC. The VSR of GP point calculated by DSC was approximately 2%, which was in good consistence with the result of volume dilatometer tested directly. The volume shrinkage of GP point was driven by two factors, one was the crystalline phase transition of GP that contributed to approximately 99% of the VSR of GP point, and the other was the cold contraction of thermal-conductive filler that could be ignored completely because its contribution rate was only approximately 1%. It was valuable to understand the volume shrinkage behavior of GP point materials and decrease the adverse effect of volume shrinkage in clinical therapy. Highlights • The volume shrinkage of endodontic gutta percha (GP) point is a serious problem in clinical therapy, the mechanism of the volume shrinkage is not clear. Therefore, the object of this study is to investigate the mechanism of the volume shrinkage of GP point; • Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was employed to calculate the volume shrinkage rate (VSR) of GP point indirectly by determining enthalpy changes that were caused by the crystalline phase transition; • We also analyzed the effect of crystal forms (alpha and beta) on volume shrinkage according to the results of DSC, which was one of the concerns for the dentists; • Volume dilatometer was utilized to determine the VSR directly to verify the results of DSC and the mechanism aforementioned; • A filling model in vitro was built to explain the generation process of the gap caused by the volume shrinkage, which further verified the mechanism of the volume shrinkage of GP point; • It is valuable to understand the volume shrinkage behavior of GP point materials and decrease the adverse effect of volume shrinkage in clinical therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum-based thermites are widely used in gas generators, propulsions, explosives, and welding because these materials can release a large amount of stored energy on combustion. However, one of the biggest problems in the traditional aluminum-based thermite systems is excessive oxidation of the aluminum particle before combustion, resulting in a decrease of the active aluminum content. Here, we report a new-concept aluminum-free thermites based on an energetic metal–organic framework [Cu(atrz) 3 (NO 3 ) 2 ] n (MOF(Cu), atrz = 4,4′-azo-1,2,4-triazole) as a fuel. Compared with the traditional aluminum-based thermites, these new thermites exhibit superior performances such as low electrostatic discharge sensitivities, low ignition temperatures, high heats of reaction, high peak pressures, high activity, and production of very few solid residues. It is anticipated that this work will open a new field for the application of MOFs, while laying the groundwork for the development of new energetic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a foregoing article, a new method based on dynamic mechanical thermal analysis(DMTA)for determining the degrees of crystallinity of the natural rubber (NR) and the eucommia ulmoides ( EU ) gum, with different crosslink densities, has been established. In order to verify the effectiveness of this method, in the present paper, the degrees of crystallinity of NR and EU gum with different crosslink densities will be determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results indicate that the degrees of crystallinity determined by DMTA are much higher than those of DSC. This is because the degree of crystallinity determined by DMTA involves not only the ratio of the crystalline zone, but also the ratio of the mesomorphic zone, while the degree of crystallinity tested by DSC includes only the ratio of the crystalline zone. So, the degree of crystallinity, the degree of mesomorphic zone and the degree of amorphous zone of NR and EU gums with different crosslink densities can be quantitatively determined by the combination of DMTA and DSC. The results show that the degree of crystallinity, the degree of mesomorphic zone and the degree of amorphous zone of NR (crystallized at −25 °C for 12 h) and EU gum are 33%, 53%, 14% and 34%, 54%, 13%, respectively. For NR, increasing the crosslink density or decreasing the induced time will decrease the degree of crystallinity and the degree of mesomorphic zone simultaneously, but will increase the degree of amorphous zones. For EU gum, increasing the crosslink density will decrease the degree of crystallinity and increase the degree of amorphous zone, but keep the degree of mesomorphic zone invariably consistent within the critical crystallization point, which is approximately 55%. At the end of the paper, the impact of crystallization on the mechanical properties of EU gum and NR is discussed as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the two-phase model theories of polymer crystallization, the degree of crystallinity of natural rubber (NR) induced to crystallize at −25 °C can be directly determined by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) by testing its tanδ peak areas of crystalline state and 100% amorphous state respectively. The degree of crystallinity is 86% when the induction time increases to 12 h. However, due to the tanδ peak area of 100% amorphous state cannot be measured by DMTA directly, the degree of crystallinity of Eucommia Ulmoides (EU) gum can only be determined indirectly with DMTA by using the tanδ peak areas of 100% amorphous state extrapolated from the linear equation (y = ax + b) which is derived from the relationship between tanδ peak areas and crosslink densities. The degree of crystallinity is 87%, which is very close to NR. The crystallization of NR can be prevented effectively by increasing slightly the crosslink density to the critical crystallization point, which is 6.20 × 10 −5 mol/cm −3 for vulcanized NR induced to crystallize at −25 °C for 4 h. However, it is very hard for EU gum to prevent the crystallization by crosslinking. Because, with increasing of the crosslink density, the EU gum will firstly show a percolation threshold, which is 53.34 × 10 −5 mol/cm −3 , and the degree of crystallinity is 71.04%. Then, like NR, the degree of crystallinity of EU gum will decrease rapidly to zero by increasing the crosslink density to the critical crystallization point, which is 68.89 × 10 −5 mol/cm −3 . In the end of the paper, the linear relationship of the equation is verified and the influence factors on slope a and intercept b of the linear equation are discussed as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis and energetic performances of three inner diazonium salts, 3,5-dichloro-4-diazopyrazole zwitterion (1), 4-diazo-3,5-dinitropyrazole zwitterion (2), and 4-diazo-5-nitro-pyrazol-3-one zwitterion (3), were investigated in this study. All these compounds were characterized by IR, UV/Vis, 13C and 15N NMR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Their structures were further confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction. Moreover, their thermal stabilities are determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). In addition, detonation parameters (e.g. detonation velocity and pressure) of the target compounds were computed using EXPLO5 v6.01 based on the calculated heat of formation and density. The results show that compound 2 exhibits a density of 1.849 g cm−3 and a decomposition temperature (Td) of 154 °C, which are superior to those of the efficient primary explosive DDNP (2-diazo-4,6-dinitrophenol, Td = 142 °C). Compounds 1 and 3 also have moderately high decomposition temperatures of 135 and 151 °C, respectively. Besides, compounds 2 and 3 exhibit good detonation properties (2, 9038 m s−1, 35.0 GPa; 3, 8055 m s−1, 26.4 GPa), which are higher than those of the widely used primary explosives DDNP (7290 m s−1, 23.7 GPa) and Pb(N3)2 (5876 m s−1, 33.4 GPa). The moderately high thermal stabilities combined with the good detonation properties make them potential green primary explosives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone)/poly(vinylidene fluoride)/graphene (S/P/G) composite membrane was prepared through a solution-casting method for a vanadium redox flow battery (VRB), and the weight ratio of high sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), and graphene was optimized. The preferred S/P/G-7 composite membrane showed the lowest VO permeability and highest ion selectivity compared with other four kinds of cation exchange membranes SPEEK75, heterogeneous PSSA-PE, Nafion 117, and recast Nafion (r-Nafion). The VRB with S/P/G-7 membrane exhibited the higher coulombic efficiency of ∼8% and energy efficiency of ∼4%, but lower capacity loss and self-discharge than that of VRB with Nafion117 membrane during cycling tests, which further indicated the promising prospects of S/P/G-7 composite membrane in VRB application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK)/TiO 2 double-deck membrane which consists of a layer of SPEEK and a layer of TiO 2 was prepared and investigated for vanadium redox flow battery (VRB) application for the first time. The physicochemical properties of the SPEEK/TiO 2 membrane, including the water uptake, swelling ratio, ion exchange capacity, proton conductivity, VO 2 + permeability and ion selectivity are evaluated in detail, compared to the pristine SPEEK membrane and Nafion 117 membrane. The scanning electron microscopy images reveal its double-deck structure and the structural stability with no delamination, and thermogravimetric analysis (TG) identifies its thermal stability. Among all membranes, the SPEEK/TiO 2 double-deck membrane possesses lowest vanadium ion permeability (6.66 × 10 − 7 cm 2 min − 1 ) and highest ion selectivity (9.46 × 10 4 S min cm − 3 ). The VRB single cell with SPEEK/TiO 2 double-deck membrane shows higher coulombic efficiency (97.0% vs 93.3%) and energy efficiency (85.8% vs 83.7%) compared to that with Nafion 117 membrane at 60 mA cm − 2 . Furthermore, the SPEEK/TiO 2 double-deck membrane exhibits highly stable cell performance after 60 times of cycling tests at 60 mA cm − 2 and lower capacity decay rate than that of Nafion 117 membrane. Therefore, the SPEEK/TiO 2 double-deck membrane exhibits good potential usage in VRB systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-based polymer products derived from renewable agricultural and biomass feedstock have become increasingly important as these sustainable and eco-efficient products bring a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and saving of fossil energy in comparison with conventional pertrochemical-based materials. A series of bio-based elastomers from large-scale produced and petroleum independent monomers such as succinic acid, sebacic acid, itaconic acid, 1,3-propanediol, 1,4-butanediol, soybean oil, glycerol, citric acid, etc have been developed by authors. Same as conventional elastomers, bio-based elastomers possess low glass transition temperature, high elasticity and low strength, and this implies that they must be reinforced by nano-fillers. However, they also possess particular and novel properties due to their characteristic macromolecular structures and aggregation structure. For example, the existence of abundant ester groups, terminal carboxyl groups, and terminal hydroxyl groups in bio-based polyester elastomers endow polar fillers like silica disperse homogeneous in the elastomer matrix without surface modification. Even though, for incorporation of easily agglomerated fillers like graphene and layered silicates, elaborately dispersion and interfacial tailoring technique is necessary. Combined with specific structures and relevant effective composite technology, bio-based elastomer composites exhibit versatile potential applications in tire tread, PLA toughener, thermoplastic vulcanizates, and dielectric elastomer, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several organic amines with –NH 2 functional groups and inorganic ammoniums with –NH 4 + functional groups have been comparatively investigated as stabilizers of the V(V) electrolyte for vanadium redox flow battery (VRB) to improve its stability and electrochemical performance. Thermal stability tests showed that chitosan (CTS) and nonionic-type polyacrylamide (NPAM) additives with –NH 2 ; ammonium thiocyanate (ATC), ferrous ammonium sulfate (FAS) and ammonium ferric sulfate (AFS) additives with –NH 4 + could significantly improve the thermal stability of the V(V) electrolyte over a wide temperature range of − 5 °C to 45 °C. The electrochemical behavior of the V(V) electrolyte with these preferred additives was further studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV), steady state polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and charge–discharge test. The results indicated that the electrochemical activity and reversibility for the V(V) electrolyte with the best additive CTS with –NH 4 + was significantly improved compared with the additives with –NH 2 and pristine one. In addition, the VRB employing the positive electrolyte with CTS exhibited excellent cycling stability and charge–discharge behavior with a high energy efficiency of 82.5%. The N-containing and O-containing functional groups of CTS in the V(V) electrolyte could modify the electrode and further improve the electrochemical performance and cycling stability of VRB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a major virulence factor of Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes), listeriolysin O (LLO) can assist in the immune escape of L. monocytogenes, which is critical for the pathogen to evade host immune recognition, leading to various infectious diseases. Cinnamon twig (CT), as a traditional medicine, has been widely used in clinics for multiple functions and it has exhibited excellent safety, efficacy and stability. There are few reports on the effects of the extracts of traditional medicine on bacterial virulence factors. CT has not been reported to be effective in the treatment of L. monocytogenes infection. Therefore, this study aims to explore the preventive effect of CT against L. monocytogenes infection in vivo and in vitro by targeting LLO. Firstly, a hemolysis assay and a cell viability determination are used to detect the effect of CT extract on the inhibition of the cytolytic activity of LLO. The potential mechanism through which CT extract inhibits LLO activity is predicted through network pharmacology, molecular docking assay, real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blotting and circular dichroism (CD) analysis. The experimental therapeutic effect of CT extract is examined in a mouse model infected with L. monocytogenes. Then, the ingredients are identified through a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and thin layer chromatography (TLC) analysis. Here we find that CT extract, containing mainly cinnamic acid, cinnamaldehyde, β-sitosterol, taxifolin, catechin and epicatechin, shows a potential inhibition of LLO-mediated hemolysis without any antimicrobial activity. The results of the mechanism research show that CT extract treatment can simultaneously inhibit LLO expression and oligomerization. Furthermore, the addition of CT extract led to a remarkable alleviation of LLO-induced cytotoxicity. After treatment with CT extract, the mortality, bacterial load, pathological damage and inflammatory responses of infected mice are significantly reduced when compared with the untreated group. This study suggests that CT extract can be a novel and multicomponent inhibitor of LLO with multiple strategies against L. monocytogenes infection, which could be further developed into a novel treatment for infections caused by L. monocytogenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamic mechanical properties of Eucommia ulmoides (EU) gum with different degree of cross-linking are studied systematically in this article. EU gum displays five dynamic mechanical behaviors with increasing degree of cross-linking. Before elastic critical turning point, EU gum shows two active dynamic mechanical temperature zones with rising of temperature, one is T zone, controlled by glass transition mechanism, the other is T zone, controlled by crystalline melting mechanism, its tan δ values at T zone and T zone during the process of cross-linking obey the dynamic reverse transition law: at the T zone, the peak value of its tan δ is proportional to cross-linking degree inversely proportional to crystallinity degree; at T zone, its tan δ value is proportional to crystallinity degree and inversely proportional to cross-linking degree. In addition, the T, T, and X of the EU gum with different degrees of cross-linking are obtained as well. Graphical Abstract: In terms of temperature, the tan δ ~ T curve of EU gum has two active dynamic mechanical temperature zones. One is T zone controlled by glass transition mechanism; the other is T zone controlled by crystalline melting mechanism. In terms of cross-linking degree, the tan δ ~ T curve of EU gum displays five dynamic mechanical models.[Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: 13C NMR spectra show that Eucommia ulmoides(EU) gum is all-trans-1,4-polyisoprene molecular structure, while synthetic trans-1,4-polyisoprene (STPI) contains 0.52% cis-1,4-units and 0.34% 3,4-units which distribute randomly as monomer, dyad, or triad sequences along its macromolecular chain. This will destroy the regularity of macromolecular chain of STPI which will in turn lower its degree of crystallinity, slow its rate of crystallization and reduce its crystal dimensions. When crystallizing from the molten state at room temperature, EU gum can grow more beta-form than alpha-form crystals, while STPI tends to grow more alpha-form than beta-form crystals, which can be proved by WAXD and DSC. As a result, the stress–strain curve of STPI greatly differs from that of EU gum. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Prior synaptic or cellular activity influences degree or threshold for subsequent induction of synaptic plasticity, a process known as metaplasticity. Thus, the continual synaptic activity, spontaneous miniature excitatory synaptic current (mEPSC) may correlate to the induction of long-term depression (LTD). Here, we recorded whole-cell EPSC and mEPSC alternately in the Schaffer-CA1 synapses in brain slice of young rats, and found that this recording configuration affected neither EPSC nor mEPSC. Low frequency stimulation (LFS) induced variable magnitudes of LTD. Remarkably, larger magnitudes of LTD were significantly correlated to smaller amplitude/lower frequency of the basal mEPSC. Furthermore, under the conditions reduced amplitude/frequency of the basal mEPSC by exposure to behavioral stress immediately before slice preparation or low concentration of calcium in bath solution, the magnitudes of LTD were still inversely correlated to mEPSC amplitude/frequency. These new findings suggest that spontaneous mEPSC may reflect functional and/or structural aspects of the synapses, the synaptic history ongoing metaplasticity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The subiculum, which is the primary target of CA1 pyramidal neurons and sending efferent fibres to many brain regions, serves as a hippocampal interface in the neural information processes between hippocampal formation and neocortex. Long-term depression (LTD) is extensively studied in the hippocampus, but not at the CA1-subicular synaptic transmission. Using whole-cell EPSC recordings in the brain slices of young rats, we demonstrated that the pairing protocols of low frequency stimulation (LFS) at 3Hz and postsynaptic depolarization of −50mV elicited a reliable LTD in the subiculum. The LTD did not cause the changes of the paired-pulse ratio of EPSC. Furthermore, it did not depend on either NMDA receptors or voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs). Bath application of the G-protein coupled muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs) antagonists, atropine or scopolamine, blocked the LTD, suggesting that mAChRs are involved in the LTD. It was also completely blocked by either the Ca2+ chelator BAPTA or the G-protein inhibitor GDP-β-S in the intracellular solution. This type of LTD in the subiculum may play a particular role in the neural information processing between the hippocampus and neocortex. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The anesthetic, propofol, effectively suppresses excitatory synaptic transmission and facilitates long-term depression (LTD) in the CA1 region of the hippocampus. Here, we have examined whether these effects are different in the developing hippocampus. We found that propofol in suppressing whole-cell excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSC) was more effective in 21 day old rats than either in 7 day old rats or under the condition of high intracellular chloride concentration in 21 day old rats. Furthermore, the propofol concentration to facilitate the NMDA receptor-dependent LTD was lower at postnatal day 21 than at postnatal day 7. Interestingly, the decay time of EPSC was decreased during the development from postnatal day 7 to 21, but it was increased by the recording condition of high intracellular chloride concentration or by propofol administration. All these effects of propofol were dependent on the chloride channel opening. These observations suggest that propofol may induce differential anesthetic effects in the developing hippocampus, at least partially, depending on the intracellular chloride concentration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Dramatic growth of lithium dendrite, structural deterioration of LiCoO2 (LCO) cathode at high voltages, and unstable electrode/electrolyte interfaces pose significant obstacles to the practical application of high‐energy‐density LCO||Li batteries. In this work, a novel eutectogel electrolyte is developed by confining the nonflammable eutectic electrolyte in a polymer matrix. The eutectogel electrolyte can construct a robust solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) with inorganic‐rich LiF and Li3N, contributing to a uniform Li deposition. Besides, the severe interface side reactions between LCO cathode and electrolyte can be retarded with an in situ formed protective layer. Correspondingly, Li||Li symmetrical cells achieve highly reversible Li plating/stripping over 1000 h. The LCO||Li full cell can maintain 72.5% capacity after 1500 cycles with a decay rate of only 0.018% per cycle at a high charging voltage of 4.45 V. Moreover, the well‐designed eutectogel electrolyte can even enable the stable operation of LCO at an extremely high cutoff voltage of 4.6 V. This work introduces a promising avenue for the advancement of eutectogel electrolytes, the nonflammable nature and well‐regulated interphase significantly push forward the future application of lithium metal batteries and high‐voltage utilization of LCO cathode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• H 5 IO 6 /HIO 3 , were introduced into energetics through cocrystallization of small acid-base gap. • The available oxygen content carried by oxidant in cocrystal 3 is as high as 5. • 3 and 4 are very promising as biocidal agents and high-energy materials. • This study provides a new route for preparing energetic cocrystals and broadens application of oxidants. Achieving a balanced oxidant-to-fuel ratio remains a challenge in the field of energetic materials. Now, oxygen-rich acids, H 5 IO 6 /HIO 3 were combined with three weakly basic energetics (btrz: 4,4′-bis-1,2,4-triazole; atrz: 4,4′-azo-1,2,4-triazole; ICM-102: 2,4,6-triamino-5-nitropyrimidine-1,3-dioxide) to form four cocrystals (1 : H 5 IO 6 /btrz; 2 : H 5 IO 6 /atrz; 3 : 2HIO 3 /atrz; and 4 : HIO 3 /ICM-102) through the close acid-base gap of two precursors. The oxygen balances of the four cocrystals increased significantly, especially cocrystal 3 , where its available oxygen atoms provided by the two HIO 3 molecules is 5. Simple preparation, 49.2% iodine content, and excellent detonation performance of cocrystal 3 makes it a promising energetic biocidal agent. Cocrystal 4 shows potential as both a biocidal agent and energetic material. This work provides a new route for preparing cocrystals and broadens application of oxidants for the development of well-balanced energetic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucommia Ulmoides (EU) gum will crystallize easily at room temperature due to the regular trans -1,4-polyisoprene (TPI) molecular structure. Around the skeleton stretching vibration band of TPI , its FTIR spectrum showed 5 weak crystalline peaks decrease as temperature increase, and there are also two amorphous peaks (845 cm−1 and 668 cm−1) increase as temperature increase. According to this phenomenon, Variable Temperature Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrum (VTFTIR) and Variable Temperature Wide Angle X-ray Diffraction (VTWAXD) have been taken to analyze the degree of crystallinity of EU gum. In addition to the ratio of crystalline zone, the result determined by VTFTIR also involve the mesomorphic zone, which make it higher than the result determined by VTWAXD. Through the comparative analysis of VTFTIR and VTWAXD , it has been proved that the ratio of crystalline zone, mesomorphic zone, amorphous zone in EU gum were respectively 39.8%, 27.6%, 32.6% at room temperature. Based on the Density Measurement and the three-phase model theory, the density gradient function of the mesomorphic zone of EU gum was firstly proposed. Below 60 °C, the density of the mesomorphic does not change with the temperature, approximately 0.931g/cm−3. Above 60 °C, the density of the mesomorphic decreases with the temperature increasing, and finally drops to 0.905g/cm−3 at 80 °C, which is equal to the density of the complete amorphous zone. • A method of determining the degree of crystallinity of EU gum based on the amorphous peak of VTFTIR has been proposed. • Different amorphous peaks were applied to determine the crystallinity with high consistency and accuracy. • The ratio of mesomorphic zone of EU gum has been determined by combining VTFTIR and VTXRD. • The relationship between the density of mesomorphic region and temperature in EU gum has been firstly obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to meet the high demands of modern energetic materials, numerous routes have been explored by the researchers. In this study, a ring replacement strategy was designed to enhance the energetic properties. The ring replacement compounds 11 (N,N′-methylenebis (N-(4-(2H-tetrazol-5-yl)-1,2,5-oxadiazol-3-yl)- nitramide) and 15 (N,N′-ethylenebis (N-(4-(2H-tetrazol-5-yl)-1,2,5-oxadiazol-3-yl)- nitramide), in which the oxadiazole rings connected to the furazan backbone were replaced by tetrazole rings were characterized by x-ray single crystal diffraction and NMR (1H, 13C, 15N). The results compounds show that the heats of formation and detonation performance of the replacement compounds were significantly better than those of the precursor compounds, and the nitrogen content of compounds 11 and 15 were improved from 41.18% and 39.81% to54.9% and 53.08%, respectively, which belongs to the category of high nitrogen compounds. In a word, the ring replacement strategy in this work offers fresh routes for the improvement in properties of energetic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-renewable ionic liquids (ILs) have been the focus of intensive research following the realization that commonly used ILs are not as environmentally and biologically friendly as first thought. Matrine, a reactive and bioactive alkaloid found in a Chinese herb medicine from the genus Sophora , was used to synthesize a novel family of matrinium-based room temperature ILs, featuring a series of long-chain fatty acid anions derived from vegetable oils. The prepared ILs exhibited superb physicochemical properties, including relatively low viscosities (325.5–489.5 m Pas), moderate densities (1.00–1.07 g cm−3), and wide liquid operating ranges (230–270 °C). Solvatochromic experiments showed that the dipolarity/polarizability (π *) values (0.67–0.78) of these ILs were far below those of most common ILs, suggesting promising application potential as solvents for lipophilic compounds. Furthermore, the prepared ILs were shown to have better antibacterial and anticancer activities than matrine, while elongation of the alkanoate anions strongly enhanced their bioactivities. Additionally, the prepared ILs demonstrated relatively lower cytotoxicity on normal cells (L929) compared to tumor cells (HeLa and A549). Consequently, the bio-renewable matrinium-based ILs should have potential applications as benign solvents for use in chemistry, biology, pharmacy, etc. Image 1 • Novel matrinium-based ionic liquids (ILs) were designed and synthesized. • The matrinium-based ILs displayed superb physicochemical properties. • The matrinium-based ILs exhibited improved biological activity compared to matrine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gutta percha (GP) point is typically used as the filling material during the root canal therapy, as its malleable, inert, and biocompatible properties. However, due to its low thermal conductivity (TC) and high shear viscosity, the vimineous GP point is difficult to melt and to flow into the root canal. In this study, a new GP composite with high TC and low shear viscosity is prepared by mixing a large amount of zinc oxide (ZnO) fillers bridged by a small quantity of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) (GP/ZnO@CNTs). Compared with the GP composite filled by ZnO alone (450phr), the TC of GP composite increases by 75.6% with 400phr ZnO and 50phr CNTs. Moreover, the TC and shear viscosity of GP composite containing 400phr ZnO and 20phr CNTs are 9.3% more and 4.5% less than those of a common commercial GP point (Bio-gutta percha (BP) point), respectively. The in vitro experiments confirm that the GP/ZnO@CNTs possesses the large filling depth of lateral canal, which is 9.0% longer than that of BP point at position WL-3. The cytotoxicity of the new GP composite extracts is grade 0–1, indicating that the material is qualified to prepare the GP point. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taraxacum kok-saghyz (TKS), a rubber-producing plant with excellent potential, emerges as a viable substitute for rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). While natural rubber is a desirable material, conventional techniques for assessing rubber content have faced challenges in meeting practical production requirements. To address this issue, we have developed a pyrolysis–mass spectrometry (PY-MS) instrument for the quantitative evaluation of natural rubber (NR) content in rubber-producing plants. The derived standard curve equation, established for the detection of TKS dry weight through external standard calibration, demonstrates a correlation coefficient (R2) surpassing 0.99. The method exhibits commendable recovery rates (93.27–107.83%), relative standard deviations (RSD ≤ 3.93%), and a swift analysis time of merely 10 min per sample, thereby enabling accurate and efficient quantification of NR dry weight. Additionally, the PY-MS system we designed can be modified for vehicular use, enabling on-site, in situ analysis, and it provides substantial support for TKS breeding and propagation efforts. This approach possesses significant potential for extensive utilization in the assessment of rubber content in rubber-producing plants other than TKS. The integration of pyrolysis–mass spectrometry for the identification of polymers with high molecular weight offers a valuable pathway for the examination of diverse polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, ultrasound-assisted natural deep-eutectic solvents (NaDESs) were used to extract Chlorella. A safe and stable Ect-Pan DES (DES formed by ectoin and panthenol) was prepared by mixing different molar ratios of ectoin and panthenol. Compared with traditional extraction methods, Ect-Pan DES combined with ultrasonic treatment not only saves time but also improves the extraction efficiency of Chlorella (5.32 mg g−1). Chlorella extract has good skin permeability and can penetrate the skin cuticle to the epidermis and dermis. Chlorella extract has good anti-wrinkle and firming effects on the human body along with its biosafety, biocompatibility, and antioxidant activity. Therefore, Chlorella extract has potential for application as an anti-wrinkle agent for anti-wrinkle cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autophagy is a conserved lysosomal degradation process that has recently been found to be associated with stress-related psychological diseases. However, previous studies have yielded inconsistent results regarding the effects of various stress patterns on autophagy in different brain regions. This discrepancy may arise from differences in autophagy flux across nuclei, the type of stress experienced, and the timing of autophagy assessment after stress exposure. In this study, we assessed autophagy flux in the rat hippocampus (HPC), medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and basal lateral amygdala (BLA) by quantifying protein levels of p-ULK1, LC3-I, LC3-II, and p62 via Western blot analysis at 15 min, 30 min, and 60 min following various stress paradigms: restraint stress, foot shock, single corticosterone injection, and chronic corticosterone treatment. We found that: (1) hippocampal autophagy decreased within 1 h of restraint stress, foot shock, and corticosterone injection, except for a transient increase at 30 min after restraint stress; (2) autophagy increased 1 h after restraint stress and corticosterone injection but decreased 1 h after foot shock in mPFC; (3) In BLA, autophagy increased 1 h after foot shock and corticosterone injection but decreased 1 h after restraint stress; (4) Chronic corticosterone increased autophagy in mPFC and BLA but had no effects in HPC. These findings suggest that stress regulates autophagy in a brain region- and stressor-specific manner within 1 h after stress exposure, which may contribute to the development of stress-related psychological disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correction for ‘Synthesis and characterization of three pyrazolate inner diazonium salts: green, powerful and stable primary explosives’ by Yao Du et al., New J. Chem., 2017, 41, 9244–9249. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delaying aging is an eternal goal for humanity. Acetyl hexapeptide‐8 (AHP‐8) is an effective skin anti‐aging drug that locally interrupts the signal transmission of muscle contractions and promotes collagen production, thus smoothening wrinkles. However, its high molecular weight and strong hydrophilicity limit its skin permeation capacity. To solve this problem, an ionic liquid with excellent bioactivity, MAC, is synthesized from l‐malic acid and l‐carnitine and used as a permeation enhancer to improve the anti‐aging effects of AHP‐8. The ratio of MAC's components is optimized based on density functional theory calculations and cytotoxicity experiments. Low concentrations of MAC significantly increase AHP‐8 transdermal delivery, reaching a maximum at 5‐10 wt% MAC. The pro‐permeation mechanism of MAC is investigated using molecular dynamics simulations, and the penetration enhancement and anti‐aging performance of AHP‐8 are demonstrated by conducting cellular, animal, and clinical experiments. The results show that MAC/AHP‐8 outperforms AHP‐8 in terms of collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis, anti‐inflammation, anti‐oxidation, and inhibition of muscle contraction, thus significantly reducing the number and area of wrinkles and increasing skin moisture and elasticity. This study presents MAC as a simple and efficient transdermal vehicle for the clinical application of AHP‐8. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Live cell RNA imaging using genetically encoded fluorescent labels is an important tool for monitoring RNA activities. A recently reported RNA aptamer-fluorogen system, the Spinach, in which an RNA aptamer binds and induces the fluorescence of a GFP-like 3,5-difluoro-4-hydroxybenzylidene imidazolinone (DFHBI) ligand, can be readily tagged to the RNA of interest. Although the aptamer-fluorogen system is sufficient for imaging highly abundant non-coding RNAs (tRNAs, rRNAs, etc.), it performs poorly for mRNA imaging due to low brightness. In addition, whether the aptamer-fluorogen system may perturb the native RNA characteristics has not been systematically characterized at the levels of RNA transcription, translation and degradation. To increase the brightness of these aptamer-fluorogen systems, we constructed and tested tandem arrays containing multiple Spinach aptamers (8-64 aptamer repeats). Such arrays enhanced the brightness of the tagged mRNA molecules by up to ~17 fold in living cells. Strong laser excitation with pulsed illumination further increased the imaging sensitivity of Spinach array-tagged RNAs. Moreover, transcriptional fusion to the Spinach array did not affect mRNA transcription, translation or degradation, indicating that aptamer arrays might be a generalizable labeling method for high-performance and low-perturbation live cell RNA imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel supramolecular ionic salt was synthesized and fully characterized. • The salt enhanced salicylic acid's water solubility, permeability, and bioactivity. • Transdermal mechanism was studied by experiments and molecular dynamic simulation. • A clinical trial proved the excellent anti-acne efficacy of the salt. Salicylic acid (H[Sal]) is an attractive bionic acid that is widely used in cosmetics and drugs for the treatment of skin diseases, owing to its excellent anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, oil-control, stratum-corneum-conditioning, and anti-photoaging abilities. However, H[Sal] is a relatively strong irritant and cannot be used on sensitive skin, and its poor water solubility limits the amounts that can be included in formulas, resulting in poor transdermal efficiency and bioavailability. In this study, we develop matrinium salicylate ([Mat][Sal]), a supramolecular ionic salt that is less cytotoxic and irritates the skin less than H[Sal], while exhibiting enhanced water-solubility, transdermal-delivery, and bioactivity properties. The anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties of [Mat][Sal] are found to be superior or comparable to those of H[Sal]. The molecular structure of [Mat][Sal] is thoroughly investigated, including through single-crystal structure refinement, to gain an in-depth understanding of its properties. Moreover, in-vitro skin penetration experiments show that forming a salt with matrine increase the transdermal efficiency of H[Sal] while not damaging the skin barrier. The transdermal mechanisms of H[Sal] and [Mat][Sal] are studied both experimentally and using molecular dynamics simulations, which show that, compared to H[Sal], [Mat][Sal] reacts more strongly with the skin, and [Sal]− diffuses more rapidly in the skin owing to its higher water solubility and the ion-pair effect. Furthermore, [Mat][Sal] exhibits satisfactory anti-acne capabilities in a clinical-efficacy trial, highlighting its great potential for use in biomedical and cosmetics applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Green hypergolic fuels were developed from bio-renewable theophylline. • They have good thermal stability, density specific impulse, and ignition activity. • Their molecular structures were investigated by single crystals. • The change mechanism of properties was studied based on quantum chemistry theory. • The theophylline-derived fuels can be alternatives to conventional toxic propellants. Hypergolic ionic liquids (ILs) are a feasible green alternative to the toxic and volatile hydrazine-based fuel in propellant systems. However, most reported hypergolic ILs still have environmental and biological issues due to their petrochemical product sources. Theophylline is a plant-derived methylxanthine-type alkaloid with relatively high energy density. This work synthesizes a novel family of bio-renewable theophylline-derived cations for energetic ionic compounds, with dicyanamide as the hypergolic anion. Five with shorter cationic alkyl groups (less than or equal to four carbon atoms) exhibit spontaneous combustion upon contact with 100 % HNO 3. Meanwhile, they possess high densities above 1.30 g·cm−3, and density-specific impulses varied in the range of 333.2–348.0 s·g·cm−3 (calculated by Gaussian 09 program), better than those of the hydrazine-based propellants. Notably, 9-butenyl-1,3,5-trimethylxanthinium dicyanamide exhibits excellent integrated properties, including the shortest ignition delay time (49 ms), most comprehensive liquid operating temperature range (−70 to 215 °C), and a high density-specific impulse (342.2 s·g·cm−3). This study is expected to pave the way for developing bio-renewable hypergolic ILs from natural sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucommia ulmoides gum (EUG) is a natural polymer predominantly consisting of trans-1,4-polyisoprene. Due to its excellent crystallization efficiency and rubber-plastic duality, EUG finds applications in various fields, including medical equipment, national defense, and civil industry. Here, we devised a portable pyrolysis-membrane inlet mass spectrometry (PY-MIMS) approach to rapidly, accurately, and quantitatively identify rubber content in Eucommia ulmoides (EU). EUG is first introduced into the pyrolyzer and pyrolyzed into tiny molecules, which are then dissolved and diffusively transported via the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane before entering the quadrupole mass spectrometer for quantitative analysis. The results indicate that the limit of detection (LOD) for EUG is 1.36 μg/mg, and the recovery rate ranges from 95.04% to 104.96%. Compared to the result of pyrolysis-gas chromatography (PY-GC), the average relative error is 1.153%, and the detection time was reduced to less than 5 min, demonstrating that the procedure was reliable, accurate, and efficient. The method has the potential to be employed to precisely identify the rubber content of natural rubber-producing plants such as Eucommia ulmoides, Taraxacum kok-saghyz (TKS), Guayule, and Thorn lettuce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel oxidized g-C 3 N 4 (OCN)-modified Sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) composite membrane were fabricated via a solution-casting method. The physicochemical properties of composite membranes with different oxidized-C 3 N 4 content were characterized, including water uptake, swelling ratio, ion exchange capacity, proton conductivity, vanadium ion permeability and ion selectivity. It was found that when the content of OCN incorporated into SPEEK matrix was 1%, this composite membrane showed a low vanadium ion permeability(9.09 × 10 − 7 cm 2 min − 1 ) and high ion selectivity(6.60 × 10 4 S min cm − 3 ). The vanadium redox flow battery (VRB) assembled with this membrane at 60 mA cm − 2 exhibited a higher coulombic efficiency (98%) than Nafion 117 membrane (95%). Moreover, in cycling tests VRB assembled with this composite membrane showed a more stable cycle performance compared with that of Nafion 117 membrane. Thus, the OCN-modified SPEEK composite membrane has a potential application for VRB system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A convenient and nonradioactive method for quantifying in vitro NR biosynthesis is presented that is based upon the quantitation of substrate depletion by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). NR oligomers could be in vitro biosynthesized with the enzyme source from Hevea brasiliensis (Hevea) or Taraxacum kok-saghyz (TKS) by exogenous monomers (IPP) and initiators (FPP). The IPP incorporation rate and FPP consumption rate were 62.24% and 51.14% respectively when the washed rubber particles (WRP) of Hevea was the enzyme source. The IPP incorporation rate and the FPP consumption rate were 74.49% and 95.90% respectively when the sediment bottom fraction (BF) of Hevea was the enzyme source. The in vitro NR biosynthesis can be divided into two stages:(1) the initiation reaction of FPP, which occurs more in BF, and (2) the growth reaction of IPP, which occurs more in WRP. In addition, the IPP incorporation and FPP consumption rates were 59.39% and 34.15% respectively when the BF of TKS was selected as an enzyme source. • The NR oligomers were biosynthesized in vitro by exogenous IPP and FPP. • The BF and WRP of Hevea latex and the BF of TKS latex were transferase sources. • The contents of IPP and FPP were determined by UHPLC-MS/MS. • The chain initiation reaction of FPP occurred more in the BF than in the WRP. • The chain growth reaction of IPP occurred more in the WRP than in the BF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Taraxacum kok-saghyz Rodin (TKS) is a promising commercial alternative natural rubber (NR) yielding plant. Cultivating TKS with a high NR content is an important breeding target, and developing molecular markers related to NR content can effectively accelerate the breeding process of TKS. Results: To construct a high-density SNP genetic map and uncover genomic regions related to the NR content in TKS, an F1 mapping population of TKS was constructed by crossing two parents (l66 and X51) with significant differences in NR contents. The NR content of the F1 plants ranged from 0.30 to 15.14% and was distributed normally with a coefficient of variation of 47.61%, indicating quantitative trait inheritance. Then, employing whole-genome resequencing (WGR), a TKS genetic linkage map of 12,680 bin markers comprising 322,439 SNPs was generated. Based on the genetic map and NR content of the F1 population, six quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for NR content with LOD > 4.0 were identified on LG01/Chr01 and LG06/Chr06. Of them, the 2.17 Mb genomic region between qHRC-C6-1 and qHRC-C6-2 on ChrA06, with 65.62% PVE in total, was the major QTL region. In addition, the six QTLs have significant additive genetic effects on NR content and could be used to develop markers for marker-assisted selection (MAS) in TKS with a high NR content. Conclusion: This work constructed the first high-density TKS genetic map and identified the QTLs and genomic regions controlling the NR content, which provides useful information for fine mapping, map-based cloning, and MAS in TKS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tires are often in service under dynamic conditions. Realizing the high-precision prediction of the mechanical response of rubber materials under cyclic loading can provide guidance for the design of high-performance tires. In this work, the tensile recovery stress-strain responses of rubber materials in nine different components of a truck and bus radial (TBR) tire were obtained through experiments. Before fitting, an experimental data processing method was proposed to facilitate the parameter identification for a hyper-pseudo-viscoelastic model, that is, the raw experimental data were changed to the adjusted test data. The HyperFit software was used to fit the adjusted test data based on the Yeoh hyperelastic model and the Ogden-Roxburgh pseudoelastic model to obtain the initial material parameters for the two models. In order to describe the permanent set, the Prony series viscoelastic model was introduced. The Isight software was adopted to optimize the parameters. The results showed that the hyper-pseudo-viscoelastic model (i.e., the combination of Yeoh, Ogden-Roxburgh and Prony series models) can describe the tensile recovery mechanical responses (loading curve, unloading curve and permanent set) of nine different rubber components in TBRs. The fitting results are in good agreement with the adjusted data, and all the coefficients of determination (R2) exceed 0.975. Finally, the cyclic deformation simulation of a dumbbell rubber specimen was carried out based on the above constitutive model and fitted parameters. R2 was used to describe the simulation accuracy and its value reached 0.968. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic pollutants, particularly nitrogen-rich explosives and carbon-rich dyes are generally degraded by different photocatalysts under either visible or ultraviolet light, leading to substantial waste and cost. Three photocatalysts with Z-scheme structures, Ag@AgBr/Cu 2 O-1, Ag@AgBr/Cu 2 O-2, and Ag@AgBr/Cu 2 O-3, are designed and synthesized employing a simple solvothermal and photoreduction technique to develop advanced photocatalyst materials that can degrade nitro substances under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and organic dyes under visible-light irradiation. The structural characterization of Ag@AgBr/Cu 2 O-2 as determined through various spectroscopic techniques (e.g. XPS, XRD and TEM) reveal that the Z-scheme photocatalysts are composed of Ag, Cu 2 O and AgBr nanospheres with particle size less than 100 ​nm, while nano-Ag and nano-AgBr coupled to the surface of the Cu 2 O microspheres. Further investigations demonstrate that these photocatalysts exhibit a good UV–visible absorption range (200–800 ​nm) and outstanding photocatalytic degradation activity for two typical organic pollutants. Among them, Ag@AgBr/Cu 2 O-2 achieve a 100% degradation of trinitrotoluene (a common explosive) in 30 ​min under UV radiation, and a 99.2% degradation of rhodamine B (a typical dye) in 60 ​min under visible-light irradiation in the absence of UV light, demonstrating remarkable dual-band adaptability. Moreover, Ag@AgBr/Cu 2 O-2 displays superior stability, with a degradation rate of up to 85% after four cycles. The putative photocatalytic reaction mechanism is proposed based on the radical trapping experiment. [Display omitted] • The newly reported Z-scheme photocatalysts Ag@AgBr/Cu 2 O show good light absorption over the UV–visible range (200–800 ​nm). • These Z-scheme photocatalyst can degrade different organic pollutants under ultraviolet and visible-light irradiation. • The new Z-scheme photocatalyst can degrade at least 99% of trinitrotoluene and rhodamine B within 1 ​h in the UV–visible-light irradiation. • The reaction rate constant of Ag@AgBr/Cu 2 O-2 is 1.38 times that of Ag@AgBr and 74 times that of Cu 2 O. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal-conductive polymer nanocomposites have developed rapidly due to their extensive application in many fields. However, most of the models used to analyze and predict the thermal conductivity of composites have some shortcomings. Based on the derivation process of the classic Agari model, namely the parallel model and series model, herein we first propose a new thermal-conductive model (Parallel-Series model, P–S model). Then, we use the data reported in public for verification, including our previous work and others' research, and almost all of the degrees of fit (R2) are more than 0.95. Meanwhile, the deviations between the thermal conductivity obtained by the experiment and the P–S model are less than 4%. The results show that the new P–S thermal-conductive model can be used to predict and analyze thermal conductivity, indicating that this work can provide guidance for the preparation and fabrication of thermal-conductive nanocomposites. • The highlights for seeking manuscript publication in Composites Part B: Engineering are as follows: • A new model (P–S model) with universality is proposed firstly, which surmounts the limitation of Agari model. • The accuracy and reliability of the P-S model was proved by the experimental results reported in the previous works. • This work is beneficial to perfecting the research of thermal-conductive model and composites with high thermal conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of prenatal opioid exposure in adult animals has been widely studied, but little is known about the effects of prenatal opioid on adolescents. Most of the risk behaviors associated with drug abuse are initiated during adolescence. The developmental state of the adolescent brain makes it vulnerable to initiate drug use and susceptible to drug-induced brain changes. In this study, pregnant rats were subcutaneously injected with an increasing dose of morphine (5 mg/kg, 7 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg) for 9 days since the gestation day 11. The effects of prenatal morphine (PNM) on learning and memory, anxiety- and depressive- like behavior, morphine induced conditioned place preference (CPP) as well as locomotor sensitization were tested in both adolescent and adult rats. The results showed that: (1) PNM decreased anxiety-like behavior in both adolescent and adult female rats, but not males; (2) PNM decreased depressive-like behavior in adolescent but increased depressive -like behavior in adult females; (3) PNM increased low dose morphine induced locomotor sensitization in females; (4) PNM decreased tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression in the prefrontal cortex but decreased dopamine D1 receptor expression in the nucleus-accumbens (NAc) in female rats. These results suggested that PNM altered the emotional and addictive behavior mainly in female rats, with female rats being less anxiety and depressive during adolescence, but more depressive in adult, and more sensitive to low dose morphine induced locomotor activity sensitization, which might be mediated in part by the differential expression of the TH, dopamine D1 receptors in the female brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • This research successfully prepared a novel metformin oleate ionic liquid and it can form nano-micelle for drug loading and delivery. Metformin displayed lots of therapeutic functional including anticancer and could synergistically work with its loading API. • Paclitaxel was successfully encapsulated into metformin oleate ionic liquid micelle. Other API can also encapsulate into this ionic liquid micelle. • Paclitaxel loaded metformin oleate ionic liquid micelle displayed synergistic anticancer effect in in vitro and in vivo study. Although paclitaxel (PTX) is a broad-spectrum anticancer drug, its low water solubility, poor bioavailability, and susceptibility to drug resistance have seriously limited its application. In recent years, studies have shown that metformin has potential anti-tumor activity. This paper reports the successful loading of PTX into metformin oleate ionic liquid ([Met][Ole] IL) micelles and [Met][Ole] IL/tween 80 (T-80) micelles. The obtained PTX-IL/T-80 micelle exhibited a good particle size (5.77 nm) and stability (Zeta potential: −51.65 ± 7.73 mV) in addition to possessing in vitro and in vivo antitumor efficacy. The inhibition rate of PTX-IL/T-80 (10 ppm) on 4 T1 cells reached 93 %. Furthermore, the results of the in vivo treatment in mice revealed that the tumor inhibition rate of PTX-IL/T-80 under a small-dose treatment (0.5 mg·kg−1) was 37.7 %, which was much higher than that of the PTX prodrug group (11.7 %). Consequently, PTX-IL/T-80 has a great potential for its application in cancer therapy owing to the good synergistic antitumor effect between ([Met][Ole] ionic liquid and PTX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The thermo-mechanical coupling fatigue of NR/BR nanocomposites was studied. • The heat build-up of NR/BR:30/70 nanocomposite was the most serious one. • A thermo-mechanical coupling method was adopted to reproduce the self-heating response. • The FCGR from T 0 to T c was well described by the Lake-Lindley model. • No rubber blends consistently exhibits optimal resistance to crack growth over a wide tearing energy range. Fatigue crack growth and dissipative self-heating due to viscoelasticity are crucial properties of rubber materials under dynamic service conditions. Systematic evaluation of the thermo-mechanical coupled fatigue properties with suitable lab testing methods could contribute to the development of long-lasting and robust elastomer materials. In this work, on the one hand, the hysteresis energy density, thermal conductivity, and surface temperature rise, which are closely related to the self-heating generation rate, heat transfer rate and heat build-up of the carbon black reinforced seven different natural rubber (NR) and polybutadiene rubber (BR) blends were measured. A thermo-mechanical coupling simulation method was used to reproduce the experimental observation. On the other hand, the fatigue threshold (T 0), critical tearing energy (T c), and fatigue crack growth rate (FCGR) under different tearing energy were investigated by using the advanced rubber fatigue instruments. The Lake-Lindley model was utilized to describe the rubber fatigue responses from the intrinsic strength to the ultimate strength. The results show that the dissipative self-heating of NR/BR:30/70 blend is the most obvious one, which could be well explained by the simulation results. The T 0 shows an upward trend while T c shows a downward trend with the increasing blend ratio of BR. The existence of carbon black fillers showed tiny effect on T 0 of NR, but significantly enhanced the T 0 of BR. The FCGR of reinforced NR/BR nanocomposites have Lake-Lindley law responses that cross over each other. Therefore, which rubber material is superior to others in resisting crack propagation depends on the magnitude of the input tearing energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boron nitride is a two-dimensional (2D) plate-like material with excellent thermal conductivity and lubricity. In this study, BN is introduced into Gutta-Percha (GP)/zinc oxide (ZnO) composites, and after orientation treatment, the GP@ZnO/BN composites with high TC and excellent fluidity are prepared. Moreover, the "skateboard effect" between BN plates and rod-like ZnO particles is proposed in this paper and confirmed, affording oriented GP@ZnO/5-BN lower shear viscosity (371.88 Pa·s) and higher thermal conductivity (1.65 Wm−1 K−1) than those of GP/ZnO composites. Specifically, in vitro experiments, with the assistance of the "skateboard effect," the lateral root canals filling depth (0.980 mm) of oriented GP@ZnO/5-BN composites exhibit 69.55, 49.62, and 49.16% deeper than that of commercial Bio Gutta-Percha points, MTWO Gutta-Percha points (VP), and PROTAPER universal Gutta-Percha points, respectively. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity level of the GP@ZnO/5-BN composites manifest 0–1 and the X-ray image of the GP@ZnO/5-BN composites depict similar radiopacity effect with DPP point, indicating that the oriented GP@ZnO/5-BN composites are safe and qualified as the commercial GP point materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic liquid microcapsules for the topical delivery of pterostilbene: Enhanced transdermal delivery and anti-wrinkle and skin brightening effects. [Display omitted] • In this study, we used a supramolecular solvent for microencapsulation, and successfully prepared a PTB-loaded ionic liquid microcapsule (denoted Mat-IL-MicCap@PTB), which effectively resolved the poor stability and low bioavailability of PTB. Further, transdermal experiments showed that the microcapsules improved the permeation and retention of the active component. In vitro experiments confirmed that the microcapsules reduced the irritation and side effects of PTB, and they not only achieved a lasting antioxidant effect but also inhibited the production of melanin, attenuated fine lines, and enhanced skin elasticity and health. Therefore, Mat-IL-MicCap@PTB is a feasible carrier for transdermal delivery and synergistic skin care, providing an effective strategy for improving the transdermal delivery of various dermatological drugs. • The particle size and polydispersity index (PDI) of Mat-IL-MicCap@PTB, as measured by DLS, were 154.5 ± 3.4 nm and 0.178, respectively, indicating that the obtained microcapsule had a uniform particle size distribution without aggregation into large particles. The encapsulation efficiency was found to be 99.7 ± 0.3 %. • Cell viability suggest that Mat-IL-MicCap@PTB has almost no harmful effect on healthy cells. Notably, the inhibitory effect of Mat-IL-MicCap@PTB on G361 cells was significantly greater than that of Free PTB, which is consistent with reported results for lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers. • The results of transdermal experiment showed that skin retention of Mat-IL-MicCap@PTB was higher than that of Free PTB at different time points. After 8 h of reaction, the skin retention of Mat-IL-MicCap@PTB was 7.7-times higher than that of Free PTB. • In addition, the use of Mat-IL-MicCap@PTB resulted in a significant increase in the UVA-induced type-I collagen content at concentrations of 0.0156%, 0.0313%, and 0.0625% (v/v). Notably, Mat-IL-MicCap@PTB increased the type-I collagen content in fibroblasts more significantly than Free PTB, indicating that the former has better anti-wrinkle and skin-tightening effects. • Clinical trials indicated that the synthesized Mat-IL-MicCap@PTB increased skin firmness and elasticity and inhibited wrinkle formation without adverse effects, such as irritation or toxicity to the skin. • In summary, it was concluded that Mat-IL-MicCap@PTB has high clinical safety and outstanding clinical efficacy in terms of antioxidant, anti-wrinkle, moisturizing, brightening, and repair properties. Pterostilbene (PTB) is a hydrophobic compound derived from plants in the Astragalus family. PTB possesses remarkable skin brightening and antioxidant properties. However, delivery methods for PTB require enhancement, and this can be achieved by formulating suitable carriers. In this study, we prepared ionic liquid microcapsules containing PTB by using a microencapsulation technique based on a matrine and cocinic acid ([Mat][Coc]) ionic liquid. The particle size of the microcapsules was 154.5 ± 3.42 nm, and the encapsulation efficiency was as high as 99.7 %. Further, the PTB-loaded ionic liquid microcapsules had good biocompatibility, enhanced skin retention (7.7-times higher than that of free PTB), and improved skin penetration without damaging the skin structure. Clinical testing with human subjects revealed that the microcapsule emulsion reduced fine lines and brightened skin tone. Therefore, PTB-loaded ionic liquid microcapsules have promise for use in cosmetic formulations and applications in transdermal drug delivery and efficacy enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, bio-based Eucommia ulmoides gum (EUG)/natural rubber (NR)/styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) composites are successfully fabricated through physical blending. The influence of sulfur (S) and EUG content on the crystallization characteristics, static and dynamic mechanical properties of the composites is systematically investigated. Furthermore, the impact of the cross-linking network structure on the crystallization behavior of EUG is examined, and the application of EUG/NR/SBR composites in engineering tires is explored. The results reveal that with the increasing of EUG content, the composites exhibit enhanced wear resistance and cut resistance, as well as reduced heat generation and rolling resistance. Specifically, in comparison with NR/SBR composites, the dynamic temperature rise, wear resistance, and dynamic cutting amount of EUG/NR/SBR (20/40/40) composites decreased by 14.7%, 17.1%, and 11.2%, respectively, while the fatigue life of the composites improves by 33%. This work provides valuable guidance for fabricating and applying high-performance bio-based EUG composites in engineering tires. • EUG/NR/SBR composite is successfully fabricated. • The introduction of EUG diminishes the rolling resistance of composites. • The introduction of EUG enhances the wear and cut resistance of composites. • Providing valuable guidance to develop high-performance biobased engineering tires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to address issues such as poor dimensional stability caused by low modulus and tensile stress of nitrile butadiene rubber latex (NBRL) films, as well as poor wearing comfortability due to its good adhesion to the human skin, and the inability to meet the requirements of medical special occasions due to low tensile and tear strength. A new strategy is proposed to develop the Eucommia ulmoides latex (EUL) by using the emulsion solvent evaporation technique. EUL was then blended into the NBRL, successfully preparing the NBR/EUG composite latex film. As the Eucommia ulmoides gum (EUG) content increased from 0 to 40 %, the crystallinity of the NBR/EUG composite latex film gradually increased from 0 to 10 % or so. The tensile strength increases from 5.17 MPa to 15.94 MPa, the tear strength increases from 22.17 kN/m to 37.79 kN/m, the modulus increases from 6.40 MPa to 24.80 MPa. The very important point is that the elongation at break keep stable with the increase of EUG. On the contrary, the elongation at break will decrease with addition of conventional fillers into the latex, such as silica. These enhance mechanical properties and keep the dimensional stability of the film. Therefore, it can be utilized for the development of latex film products with high modulus and big deformation, such as sky balloon and foam mattress. Additionally, the crystalline nature of EUG effectively reduces the adhesion force on the surface of the composite latex film, thus improving its compatibility with human skins. This meets the requirements of special environments, such as medical gloves. At last, as a kind of biobased latex, it can increase the content of renewable resources and reduce the carbon emission of NBRL. 1The graphical abstracts were drawn with Figdraw software, thanks to Figdraw for the help provided. [Display omitted] • The addition of 40 % EUL increased the tear strength of the composite latex film by 70 %. • The addition of 40 % EUL increased the puncture strength of the composite latex film by 251 %. • Addition of EUL reduces adhesion of composite latex films, the A EUG /A ratio of the composite film increases from 0 to 0.37. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: A novel amide-based nonflammable electrolyte is proposed. The formation mechanism and solvation chemistry are investigated by molecular dynamics simulations and density functional theory. An inorganic/organic-rich solid electrolyte interphase with an abundance of LiF, Li3N and Li–N–C is in situ formed, leading to spherical lithium deposition. The amide-based electrolyte can enable stable cycling performance at room temperature and 60 ℃. The formation of lithium dendrites and the safety hazards arising from flammable liquid electrolytes have seriously hindered the development of high-energy-density lithium metal batteries. Herein, an emerging amide-based electrolyte is proposed, containing LiTFSI and butyrolactam in different molar ratios. 1,1,2,2-Tetrafluoroethyl-2,2,3,3-tetrafluoropropylether and fluoroethylene carbonate are introduced into the amide-based electrolyte as counter solvent and additives. The well-designed amide-based electrolyte possesses nonflammability, high ionic conductivity, high thermal stability and electrochemical stability (> 4.7 V). Besides, an inorganic/organic-rich solid electrolyte interphase with an abundance of LiF, Li3N and Li–N–C is in situ formed, leading to spherical lithium deposition. The formation mechanism and solvation chemistry of amide-based electrolyte are further investigated by molecular dynamics simulations and density functional theory. When applied in Li metal batteries with LiFePO4 and LiMn2O4 cathode, the amide-based electrolyte can enable stable cycling performance at room temperature and 60 ℃. This study provides a new insight into the development of amide-based electrolytes for lithium metal batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, the synthesis of body temperature triggering shape memory polymers usually requires elaborate structural design, which limits their wide application. Herein, starting from bio‐based Eucommia ulmoides gum (EUG), a series of EUG/silica hybrids (ESHs) are prepared through a facile one‐pot process, in which EUG is epoxied and then self‐crosslinked with SiO2 by epoxy ring‐open reaction. Varying the amount of H2O2, the shape memory transition temperature (Ttrans) of ESHs is adjusted to 47.4–36.6 ℃, which is close to human body temperature (37 ℃). Among them, ESH‐17 exhibited the best body temperature triggering shape memory ability (Ttrans = 36.6 ℃), which can restore the permanent shape within 60 s at 37 ℃ with a shape fixity ratio of 99% and shape recovery ratio near 100%. In addition, the shape memory mechanism is discussed and shows some application scenarios of ESHs. The as‐produced materials can be used as smart biomaterials such as self‐tightening sutures, self‐sealing root canal filling materials, and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of hydrophobic drug and protein delivery carriers remains a challenge. To synthesize L‐(‐)‐carnitine‐based ionic liquid (IL), this study applies the density functional theory to investigate the hydrogen bonds and van der Waals force that govern L‐(‐)‐carnitine‐based IL formation. An ionic liquid‐in‐oil microemulsion (IL/O ME) is then developed to facilitate the transdermal delivery of proteins and increase the solubility of drugs. IL/O ME is prepared using isopropyl myristate (IPM), Tween 80/Span 20, and L‐(‐)‐carnitine‐based IL. The skin permeation studies conducted using mouse skin show that the insulin permeation percentage of the developed IL/O ME is 3.55 folds higher than that of phosphate‐buffered saline and 2.91 folds better than that of a hydrophilic L‐(‐)‐carnitine‐based IL. In addition, the solubility of two drug molecules, that is, rosiglitazone and bezafibrate, in IL/O ME is at least 49.28 folds higher than their solubility in water or IPM. Therefore, IL/O ME can significantly improve the solubility of drugs and increase the permeability of proteins (e.g., insulin), thus demonstrating a promising potential as a delivery carrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural rubber (NR) and isoprene rubber (IR) exhibit a similar shear-thinning phenomenon, in which NR has the inverse 'S′ shape stress-strain curve and IR has the yield stress-strain curve. Different from IR, NR exhibits the modulus self-recovery phenomenon after shearing. The experimental data showed that the 300% modulus of NR could recover 41.84% after it was sheared 5 times and stored for 30 days. The tensile strength would even recover completely. The modulus self-recovery efficiency (MSRE) would decrease with increasing shearing times. A mechanism model of the structure self-healing efficiency (SSHE) was proposed based on the supramolecular network aggregation structure (SNAS) formed by the weak valence bond of the non-rubber components (NRCs) at the terminal group of the NR macromolecular chains. The mechanical shearing force would break the SNAS of NR and the short molecular chains would fall off from the SNAS. The dropped shorted molecular chains of NR would re-enter the SNAS under the hydrogen-bond interaction generated by the NRCs after storing for a while, increasing the molecular weight and improving the mechanical properties. The 300% modulus would recover partly and the tensile strength might exceed the initial value if the NR was sheared slightly. On the contrary, as the same molecular structure without NRCs, IR did not show any modulus self-recovery phenomenon after shearing. Except it was confirmed by the increased molecular weight and gel content after shearing and storing, this mechanism model could be confirmed by the de-structured transesterification natural rubber (TENR) which did not exhibit the modulus self-recovery phenomenon anymore after removing the NRCs, such as proteins and phospholipids. • NR exhibits the modulus self-recovery phenomenon after shearing. • The modulus self-recovery efficiency would decrease with increasing shearing times. • The 300% modulus would recover partly after NR was sheared slightly. • The tensile strength might exceed the initial value after NR was sheared slightly. • NR did not exhibit the modulus self-recovery phenomenon after being removed the NRCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]