Updates from JYI
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The Engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC) model has found that ≤ 2% by volume of discontinuous fiber is favorable for strain-hardening behavior and enhanced ductility in commercial concrete. Using this model, we attempted to mechanically optimize injectable calcium phosphate bone grafts via fiber reinforcement of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and gelatin polymer fibers. Results displayed significant decreases in the bone grafts’ hardness after the 1–2% CNC critical point (p < 0.001) due to fibril agglomeration, which likely prompted internal cracking and lowered the samples’ tolerance for plastic deformation. In support, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy displayed decreased levels of cellulose-gelatin hydrogen bonding after this critical point due to decreases in transmittance broadening. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) also showed that low-fiber CNC samples exhibited extensive microcracking compared to higher-fiber CNC samples, which contained larger cracks and fiber aggregates, indicating catastrophic failure and reduced hydrogen bonding between cellulose and gelatin.
When it comes to the medical field, 3D modeling has previously been used to render anatomical images in greater detail in order to better understand bodily functions. Lately, however, 3D modeling has made waves in depicting diseases, with a focus on their severity and progression. Unlike a model depicting computer graphics, 3D culture models allow cells to interact in three dimensions and better display cell growth and movement, according to the Food and Drug Administration. Culture models are beneficial in replicating the complexities of disease by promoting interactions between cells and providing insight into potential solutions. In this issue of the Journal of Young Investigators, Priscilla Detwieler and her colleagues demonstrate that atelocollagen incorporated in a 3D model is shown to simulate a potential treatment for inflammation-induced osteoarthritis.
Over the past decade, there have been many significant advances in the field of skin aging, including studies that explore the clearance of senescent (growth-arrested) cells in skin, regenerative therapeutics, and even 3D bioprinting of skin. One of the latest discoveries showed that blocking Interleukin 17 (IL-17) signaling leads to delays in the skin aging process. But how does IL-17, a pro-inflammatory cytokine, delay what has been known as the inevitable hallmarks of skin aging?
To combat the harmful effects of stress, neuroscientists are pointing to mindfulness, defined as the practice of being fully present and aware of our external environment and our actions, while not being overly reactive or overwhelmed by external events. To shed light on this, JYI interviewed renowned neuroscientist Dr. Alexandra Fiocco, whose expertise lies at the intersection of mindfulness, stress, and cognitive aging. Dr. Fiocco currently does research at Stress and Healthy Aging Research (StAR) Lab and teaches at Toronto Metropolitan University.
The Undergraduate Research Journal
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Our mission is to improve undergraduate science training by providing innovative, high-quality educational experiences in science writing, publication and the peer-review process.