Search Results (1,498)

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressive and fatal lung disease characterized by irreversible alveolar destruction and pathological extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition. Currently approved agents (pirfenidone and nintedanib) slow functional decline but do not reverse established fibrosis or restore functional alveoli. Multifunctional bioscaffolds present a promising therapeutic strategy through targeted modulation of critical cellular processes, including proliferation, migration, and differentiation. This review synthesizes recent advances in scaffold-based interventions for PF, with a focus on their dual mechano-epigenetic regulatory functions. We delineate how scaffold properties (elastic modulus, stiffness gradients, dynamic mechanical cues) direct cell fate decisions via mechanotransduction pathways, exemplified by focal adhesion–cytoskeleton coupling. Critically, we highlight how pathological mechanical inputs establish and perpetuate self-reinforcing epigenetic barriers to regeneration through aberrant chromatin states. Furthermore, we examine scaffolds as platforms for precision epigenetic drug delivery, particularly controlled release of inhibitors targeting DNA methyltransferases (DNMTi) and histone deacetylases (HDACi) to disrupt this mechano-reinforced barrier. Evidence from PF murine models and ex vivo lung slice cultures demonstrate scaffold-mediated remodeling of the fibrotic niche, with key studies reporting substantial reductions in collagen deposition and significant increases in alveolar epithelial cell markers following intervention. These quantitative outcomes highlight enhanced alveolar epithelial plasticity and upregulating antifibrotic gene networks. Emerging integration of stimuli-responsive biomaterials, CRISPR/dCas9-based epigenetic editors, and AI-driven design to enhance scaffold functionality is discussed. Collectively, multifunctional bioscaffolds hold significant potential for clinical translation by uniquely co-targeting mechanotransduction and epigenetic reprogramming. Future work will need to resolve persistent challenges, including the erasure of pathological mechanical memory and precise spatiotemporal control of epigenetic modifiers in vivo, to unlock their full therapeutic potential. Full article

This study explores the enhancement of mechanical properties in cotton yarn-reinforced poly(lactic acid) (PLA) biocomposites, aimed at providing a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. The primary challenge addressed is the low interfacial shear strength (ISFF) between the hydrophilic cotton yarn and the hydrophobic PLA matrix. To overcome this, cotton yarn surface was chemically modified using silane treatment. Cotton yarns were aligned on a metal frame and treated with hydrolyzed silane solutions at concentrations of 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% (w/v) for 3 h. Although the tensile stress of the cotton yarn decreased significantly (p < 0.05) with higher silane concentrations, from 520.46 MPa (untreated) to 340.88 MPa (4% silane-treated), the IFSS improved significantly (p < 0.05) from 5.63 MPa to 12.12 MPa. Consequently, the tensile stress of the cotton yarn/PLA biocomposites increased significantly (p < 0.05), from 20.74 MPa (untreated) to 41.58 MPa (4% silane-treated). This is because the increased IFSS achieved through silane treatment allowed the PLA polymer to more firmly connect adjacent cotton fibers, resulting in maximum strength. FTIR and SEM analyses confirmed successful surface modification of the cotton yarn. These findings demonstrate that silane treatment effectively enhances interfacial bonding between cotton yarn and PLA resin, leading to improved mechanical performance of the biocomposites. Full article

In this study, the behavior of the spherical bearing component of the L-100 bridge part (AlfaTech LLC, Perm, Russia) is considered within the framework of a finite element model. The influence of the pattern of the coupling of the antifriction interlayer with the lower steel plate on the operation of the part is examined in terms of ideal contact, full adhesion, and frictional contact. The thickness of the antifriction interlayer varied from 4 to 12 mm. The dependencies of the contact parameters and the stress–strain state on the thickness were determined. Structurally modified polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) without AR-200 fillers was considered the material of the antifriction interlayer. The gradual refinement of the behavioral model of the antifriction material to account for structural and relaxation transitions was carried based on a wide range of experimental studies. The elastic–plastic and primary viscoelastic models of material behavior were constructed based on a series of homogeneous deformed-state experiments. The viscoelastic model of material behavior was refined using data from dynamic mechanical analysis over a wide temperature range [−40; +80] °C. In the first approximation, a model of the deformation theory of plasticity with linear elastic volumetric compressibility was identified. As a second approximation, a viscoelasticity model for the Maxwell body was constructed using Prony series. It was established that the viscoelastic model of the material allows for obtaining data on the behavior of the part with an error of no more than 15%. The numerical analog of the construction in an axisymmetric formulation can be used for the predictive analysis of the behavior of the bearing, including when changing the geometric configuration. Recommendations for the numerical modeling of the behavior of antifriction layer materials and the coupling pattern of the bearing elements are given in this work. A spherical bearing with an antifriction interlayer made of Arflon series material is considered for the first time. Full article

The fatigue constitutive model under cyclic loading is of vital importance for studying the fatigue deformation characteristics of soft rocks. In this paper, based on the classical Bingham model, a modified Bingham fatigue model for describing the fatigue deformation characteristics of soft rocks under cyclic loading was developed. Firstly, the traditional constant-viscosity component was replaced by an improved nonlinear viscoelastic component related to the number of cycles. The elastic component was replaced by an improved nonlinear elastic component that decays as the number of cycle loads increases. Meanwhile, by decomposing the cyclic dynamic loads into static loads and alternating loads, a one-dimensional nonlinear viscoelastic-plastic Bingham fatigue model was developed. Furthermore, a rock fatigue yield criterion was proposed, and by using an associated flow rule compatible with this criterion, the one-dimensional fatigue model was extended to a three-dimensional constitutive formulation under complex stress conditions. Finally, the applicability of the developed Bingham fatigue model was verified through fitting with experimental data, and the parameters of the model were identified. The model fitting results show high consistency with experimental data, with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.978 and 0.989 under low and high dynamic stress conditions, respectively, and root mean square errors (RMSEs) below 0.028. Comparative analysis between theoretical predictions and existing soft rock fatigue test data demonstrates that the developed Bingham fatigue model more effectively captures the complete fatigue deformation process under cyclic loading, including the deceleration, constant velocity, and acceleration phases. With its simplified component configuration and straightforward combination rules, this model provides a valuable reference for studying fatigue deformation characteristics of rock materials under dynamic loading conditions. Full article

To improve the applicability of tetragonal zirconia (TZP) in the high-vacuum friction drive field, a strategy combining Cr ion implantation-modified layer and hydrogen-containing amorphous carbon coating was proposed in this study. The designed coating (WC/a-C:H) consists of a Cr bonding layer, a WC-rich load-bearing layer and an a-C:H target layer. The effects of implantation voltage on the adhesion strength of WC/a-C:H coatings were investigated. The tribological behaviors of WC/a-C:H against TZP and TZP self-mated pairs at various loads in high vacuum were comparatively explored. The results indicated that when the TZP substrate was modified by a Cr ion implantation layer, the WC/a-C:H coating showed obviously better adhesion strength. Therein, at the implantation voltage of 30 kV, the coating exhibited the optimal adhesion of 88 N, which was 112% higher than that of the coating on original TZP. Surprisingly, the WC/a-C:H coating featuring maximum adhesion strength also achieved a high friction coefficient (>0.22) and exceptional wear resistance across a wide load range of 0.5~15 N in high vacuum. Compared with the TZP self-mated wear pairs, the wear rates of both the WC/a-C:H coating and its counterparts decreased by 1~2 orders of magnitude. Unlike the severe abrasive wear and plastic deformation of the TZP self-mated pairs, even at 15 N, the WC/a-C:H coating exhibited mild abrasive wear and adhesive wear mechanisms. Full article

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation, synaptic dysfunction, and cognitive decline. Current pharmacological treatments provide only symptomatic relief without altering disease progression. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), a light-based intervention, has shown neuroprotective potential, although its exact neurobiological mechanisms in AD pathogenesis remain obscure. In this study, we investigated the effects of PBMT using a 660 nm wavelength light-emitting diode (LED) in 5xFAD transgenic mouse, a well-established model of early-onset AD. Mice were subjected to once daily PBMT sessions over a defined treatment period and outcomes were assessed through immunohistochemical analysis of hippocampal regions (CA1, CA2, CA3, and dentate gyrus) alongside behavioral testing using the Y-maze spontaneous alternation task. PBMT significantly reduced Aβ plaque load across hippocampal regions, accompanied by improved preservation of neuronal morphology. Furthermore, PBMT significantly upregulated SIRT1 expression, a critical regulator of synaptic plasticity and memory processes. Behaviorally, PBMT-treated mice displayed enhanced spatial working memory compared with controls, indicating a functional benefit linked to the observed molecular and structural changes. These findings suggest that 660 nm PBMT attenuates hallmark AD pathology, promotes neuroprotective pathways, and improves cognition, highlighting its potential as a disease-modifying therapy that warrants further preclinical and clinical investigation. Full article

Lutetium–Yttrium Oxyorthosilicate (LYSO) crystals and EJ-200 plastic scintillators are widely recognized fast scintillating materials, valued for their high light yield and mechanical robustness, which make them well suited for demanding applications in high-energy physics and space research. Their non-proportional light response, along with their non-linear behavior at low-energy X-rays, has been extensively investigated in previous studies, revealing potential systematic effects in existing measurements. In this work, light quenching in both scintillators is measured under charged-particle excitation. The results are interpreted using the modified Birks–Onsager model, which provides a theoretical framework for understanding the underlying quenching mechanisms, as well as a generalized logistic parametrization, offering experimentalists a useful tool to characterize the detector’s light yield and associated uncertainties. Full article

This study investigated the degradation and disintegration behavior of novel biobased multilayered films composed of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) during controlled composting tests performed at the laboratory scale. The compostability of monolayer PLA and PHBV films, hot-pressed bilayers, and coextruded multilayer films produced in industrial or semi-industrial settings was systematically evaluated. Materials supplied by Fraunhofer LBF (Darmstadt, Germany) were tested as specified by the EVS-EN standard ISO 14855-1:2012 and EVS-EN ISO 20200:2016 standards. Composting took place in sealed, aerated vessels at 58 ± 2 °C with 50 ± 5% moisture and >6% oxygen. Biodegradation was measured via CO₂ evolution, and disintegration was assessed visually and physically. PLA-1OLA films achieved 98.59% biodegradation and 91.13% disintegration. PHBV-5OLA and multilayer PLA-1OLA/PHBV-5OLA films showed biodegradation rates of 85.49% and 73.14%, with disintegration degrees of 89.93% and 79.18%, respectively. However, modified multilayer structures displayed slightly reduced compostability compared with pure compounds, likely due to the influence of additional components. To meet the 90% biodegradability threshold required by EVS-EN 13432:2003, increasing the PLA-1OLA content is recommended. This study introduces a novel combination of biobased polymers and plasticizers in multilayer formats, offering a deeper understanding of structure–property–degradation relationships. Its significance lies in advancing the design of sustainable packaging materials that balance functionality with environmental compatibility. Full article

In response to the escalating plastic pollution crisis, the development of high-performance biodegradable materials is critical. Poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) is an important biodegradable polymer as it possesses excellent biodegradability and processability. But it suffers from limitations such as low mechanical strength, poor thermal stability, and high production costs. In this study, taxus residue (TF), a waste by-product, was utilized as a reinforcing filler to reduce PBS costs while enhancing its overall performance. To address the interfacial incompatibility between TF and PBS, branched PBS (T-PBS) was introduced as a compatibilizer. The TF was surface-modified via alkali treatment and silane coupling (KH550), and a series of PBS/TF/T-PBS composites with varying T-PBS viscosity grades were prepared by melt blending. The compatibilization mechanism of T-PBS and its influence on the composite structure, crystallization behavior, thermal stability, rheological, and mechanical properties were systematically investigated. Results show that the branched structure significantly enhanced T-PBS melt strength and reactivity. The introduction of T-PBS effectively improved interfacial compatibility between TF and PBS matrix, reducing phase separation and interfacial defects. Compared to uncompatibilized PBS/TF composites, those with appropriately viscous T-PBS exhibited improved tensile strength (increased by 19.7%) and elongation at break (increased by 78.8%), while flexural strength was also maintained at an enhanced level. The branched points acted as nucleating agents, increasing the onset temperature and degree of crystallinity. In the high-temperature region, the synergistic barrier effect from TF and char residue improved thermal stability (T_85% reached 408.19 °C). Rheological analysis revealed enhanced viscosity and elasticity of the system. This study provides a promising strategy and theoretical foundation for the high-value utilization of taxus waste and the development of high-performance biodegradable PBS-based composites. Full article

This study evaluates ground mandarin peel (MP) as a low-cost modifier for sodium-bentonite water-based drilling fluids. Formulations with 2% (w/w) MP and 1–4% bentonite were prepared to locate the composition break point using segmented regression with the Davies test; the threshold was 2.5% bentonite (B/MP ≈ 1.25). Below this level, yield stress drops sharply, and American Petroleum Institute (API) fluid loss increases nonlinearly. Two 3% bentonite muds were then compared: a polymer-stabilized reference (0.3% xanthan gum (XCD), 1% low-viscosity carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC LV), 1% modified starch) and the same package plus 2% MP. Twelve-speed rheometry and API tests showed that adding MP left plastic viscosity essentially unchanged, increased yield stress to ~3.4 Pa, reduced API fluid loss from 9 to 5.5 mL per 30 min, and thinned the filter cake from 0.30 to 0.10 mm. Because MP is a zero-price waste stream, material cost remained essentially unchanged while performance improved. These results support a practical dosing window for MP and a polymer adjustment pathway; high temperature and high-salinity stability require further verification. Full article

Practical use of calcium sulfoaluminate cements (CSAs) is dependent on their compatibility with admixtures. The following paper presents research into the effects of three different superplasticizers (SPs) (polycarboxylate ethers, modified polycarboxylates, and polynaphthalene sulfonate), and the effect of a w/c ratio in a range of 0.45–0.35 in mortars containing superplasticizer on the chosen mortar properties. The conducted tests related to consistency, initial setting time, hydration heat, flexural and compressive strength, early shrinkage (first 20 h), and drying shrinkage. The results indicate that the superplasticizer type has significant effect on the properties of CSA mortars. All superplasticizers prolonged the initial setting and induction phase of hydration in relation to CSA mortar which did not contain superplasticizer by up to 109%; however, their effect on compressive and flexural strength, drying shrinkage, and early shrinkage was dependent on the type of superplasticizer involved. Polycarboxylate ether SP provided the best results for mortar properties, as it did not affect compressive strength significantly, but reduced plastic shrinkage. Polynapthalene-based SP decreased strength and increased shrinkage more than other superplasticizers, making it the least compatible. Decreasing the w/c ratio for mortar containing superplasticizer allowed us to mitigate some of the issues, as mortars with SP1 in a low w/c ratio exhibited higher compressive and flexural strength by, respectively, 41% and 80% in the case of a w/c ratio of 0.35, and lower shrinkage. Full article

The widespread occurrence of nano-plastics (NPs) in aquatic environments poses emerging challenges to the pollutant removal performance and ecological stability of constructed wetlands (CWs). This study investigates the performance of calcium-modified (Ca-MBF) and manganese-modified basalt fiber (Mn-MBF) bio-nests as novel substrates to mitigate NP-induced inhibition of CWs. Laboratory-scale CWs were operated for 180 days to evaluate substrate-associated enzyme activities, microbial community structure, and functional gene profiles. Results showed that Mn-MBF bio-nests enhanced the activities of dehydrogenase (DHA), urease (UR), ammonia monooxygenase (AMO), nitrite oxidoreductase (NOR), nitrate reductase (NAR), nitrite reductase (NIR), and phosphatase (PST) by 86.2%, 65.5%, 127.0%, 62.8%, 131.5%, 65.3%, and 107.0%, respectively, compared with the control. In contrast, Ca-MBF bio-nests increased these enzyme activities by 48.6%, 53.5%, 67.0%, 30.6%, 95.0%, 45.3%, and 54.6%, respectively. MBF bio-nests also enhanced microbial diversity, enriched denitrifying and phosphorus-removing bacteria (e.g., Thauera, Plasticicumulans), and promoted extracellular polymeric substance secretion. Functional gene prediction indicated elevated abundances of nitrogen cycle-related genes, thereby enhancing nitrification, denitrification, and phosphorus removal processes. These synergistic effects collectively improved nitrification, denitrification, and phosphorus removal efficiency, with Mn-MBF showing superior performance. This study highlights MBF bio-nests as a sustainable strategy to enhance the resilience and long-term operational stability of CWs in environments impacted by nano-plastic pollution. Full article

This study analyzed the dynamic behavior of EN C45 structural steel under impulse loading generated by a pressure wave. The experiments were conducted on a special test rig using two load configurations: (I) direct contact of the load with the sample surface and (II) detonation at a distance of 30 mm. Depending on the loading conditions, the specimens were fragmented or developed extensive internal cracks and plastic deformations. To complement the experimental program, hybrid numerical simulations were performed using the finite element method (FEM), smoothed particles hydrodynamics (SPH), and coupled Euler–Lagrange (CEL) approach. A modified Johnson–Cook (JC) model was used to account for dynamic damage and cracks. Computed tomography (CT) and metallographic analyses provided detailed information on the formation of cracks in MnS inclusions, brittle cracks near the sample axis, and shear deformation zones away from the axis. These observations allowed direct correlation with the predicted numerical deformation and damage fields. The innovative nature of this work lies in the combination of three complementary computational techniques with computed tomography analysis and microstructure analysis, providing a comprehensive framework for describing and confirming the mechanisms of damage and fragmentation of structural steels under explosive loading. Full article

Porcine adenovirus serotype 5 (PAdV-5) is an emerging viral vector platform for veterinary vaccines; however, its genomic plasticity and essential replication elements remain incompletely characterized. This study reports the isolation and reverse genetic manipulation of a novel PAdV-5 strain (GD84) from diarrheic piglets in China. PCR screening of 167 clinical samples revealed a PAdV-5 detection rate of 38.3% (64/167), with successful isolation on ST cells after three blind passages. The complete GD84 genome is 32,620 bp in length and exhibited 99.0% nucleotide identity to the contemporary strain Ino5, but only 97.0% to the prototype HNF-70. It features an atypical GC content of 51.0% and divergent structural genes—most notably the hexon gene (89% identity to HNF-70)—suggesting altered immunogenicity. Using Red/ET recombineering, we established a rapid (less than 3 weeks) reverse genetics platform and generated four E3-modified recombinants: ΔE3-All-eGFP, ΔE3-12.5K-eGFP, ΔE3-12.5K+ORF4-eGFP, and E3-Insert-eGFP. Crucially, the ΔE3-All-eGFP construct (complete E3 deletion) failed to be rescued, while constructs preserving the 12.5K open reading frame (ORF) yielded replication-competent viruses with sustained eGFP expression over three serial passages and titers over 10^7.0 TCID₅₀/mL. Fluorescence intensity was inversely correlated with genome size, as the full-length E3-Insert-eGFP virus showed reduced expression compared with the ΔE3 variants. Our work identifies the 12.5K ORF as essential for PAdV-5 replication and provides an optimized vaccine engineering platform that balances genomic payload capacity with replicative fitness. Full article

The growing demand for sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics has driven interest in bio-based packaging derived from renewable plant biomass. Cellulose, the most abundant biopolymer on Earth, provides high tensile strength, water resistance, and biodegradability, making it a key raw material for eco-friendly packaging. However, its extraction and processing are hindered by lignin, a complex polymer that adds structural rigidity but reduces cellulose accessibility. Recent research has identified plant microRNAs (miRNAs) as powerful post-transcriptional regulators capable of modifying cell wall composition by simultaneously targeting multiple genes involved in lignin biosynthesis, cellulose synthesis, and secondary cell wall formation. By fine-tuning specific miRNAs, it is possible to increase cellulose yield, reduce lignin content, and enhance overall biomass productivity without severely compromising plant growth or stress tolerance. This review summarizes the roles of major plant miRNAs in biomass regulation and outlines biotechnological strategies such as transgenic overexpression, target mimicry, artificial miRNAs (amiRNAs), and CRISPR-based editing for improving bio-based packaging feedstocks. Harnessing miRNA-mediated gene regulation offers a promising pathway toward producing high-quality biomass with optimized cellulose–lignin ratios, enabling more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable packaging material production. Full article