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Zhang B, Baskota B, Chabain JJ, Anderson PSL. Curving expectations: The minimal impact of structural curvature in biological puncture mechanics. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadp8157. [PMID: 39141731 PMCID: PMC11323891 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adp8157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Living organisms have evolved various biological puncture tools, such as fangs, stingers, and claws, for prey capture, defense, and other critical biological functions. These tools exhibit diverse morphologies, including a wide range of structural curvatures, from straight cactus spines to crescent-shaped talons found in raptors. While the influence of such curvature on the strength of the tool has been explored, its biomechanical role in puncture performance remains untested. Here, we investigate the effect of curvature on puncture mechanics by integrating experiments with finite element simulations. Our findings reveal that within a wide biologically relevant range, structural curvature has a minimal impact on key metrics of damage initiation or the energies required for deep penetration in isotropic and homogeneous target materials. This unexpected result improves our understanding of the biomechanical pressures driving the morphological diversity of curved puncture tools and provides fundamental insights into the crucial roles of curvature in the biomechanical functions of living puncture systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingyang Zhang
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior, School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 505 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana 61801, IL, USA
| | - Bishal Baskota
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior, School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 505 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana 61801, IL, USA
| | - Jules J. Chabain
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior, School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 505 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana 61801, IL, USA
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Quan H, Liang X, Zhang X, Meyers MA, McMeeking RM, Arzt E. The shape of Nature's stingers revealed. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2316320121. [PMID: 38319966 PMCID: PMC10873632 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2316320121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Stinger-like structures in living organisms evolved convergently across taxa for both defensive and offensive purposes, with the main goal being penetration and damage. Our observations over a broad range of taxa and sizes, from microscopic radiolarians to narwhals, reveal a self-similar geometry of the stinger extremity: the diameter (d) increases along the distance from the tip (x) following a power law [Formula: see text] , with the tapering exponent varying universally between 2 and 3. We demonstrate, through analytical and experimental mechanics involving three-dimensional (3D) printing, that this geometry optimizes the stinger's performance; it represents a trade-off between the propensity to buckle, for n smaller than 2, and increased penetration force, for n greater than 3. Moreover, we find that this optimal tapering exponent does not depend on stinger size and aspect ratio (base diameter over length). We conclude that for Nature's stingers, composed of biological materials with moduli ranging from hundreds of megapascals to ten gigapascals, the necessity for a power-law contour increases with sharpness to ensure sufficient stability for penetration of skin-like tissues. Our results offer a solution to the puzzle underlying this universal geometric trait of biological stingers and may provide a new strategy to design needle-like structures for engineering or medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haocheng Quan
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing210023, China
- Institute for New Materials–Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Saarbrücken66123, Germany
| | - Xudong Liang
- School of Science, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen518055, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing100871, China
| | - Marc A. Meyers
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California, San Diego, CA92093
| | - Robert M. McMeeking
- Institute for New Materials–Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Saarbrücken66123, Germany
- Departments of Materials and Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA93106
| | - Eduard Arzt
- Institute for New Materials–Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Saarbrücken66123, Germany
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Saarland University, Saarbrücken66123, Germany
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Program in Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, San Diego, CA92093
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Wen R, Wang Z, Yi J, Hu Y. Bending-activated biotensegrity structure enables female Megarhyssa to cross the barrier of Euler's critical force. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadi8284. [PMID: 37851796 PMCID: PMC10584334 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi8284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
The parasitic female Megarhyssa has a hair-like ovipositor capable of withstanding a penetration force 10 times greater than Euler's critical force, using a reciprocating penetration method. Understanding and replicating this penetration mechanism may notably broaden the application scenarios of artificial slender elements. Here, we show that the Megarhyssa's stretched intersegmental membrane and precurved abdomen activate the multipart ovipositor as a biotensegrity structure. The ovipositor's first and second valvulae alternately retract and protract, with each retracted valvula forming a tension network to support the other under compression, resulting in an exponentially increased critical force. We validated this mechanism in a multipart flexible microneedle that withstood a penetration force of 2.5× Euler's critical force and in a lightweight industrial robot that achieved intrinsic safety through its ideal dual-stiffness characteristic. This finding could potentially elucidate the high efficiency of insect probes and inspire more efficient and safer engineering designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongwei Wen
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 000000, China
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 000000, China
- Department of Computer Science, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 000000, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Juan Yi
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yong Hu
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 000000, China
- Orthopedics Center, The University of Hong Kong–Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518048, China
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Crofts SB, Anderson PSL. How venom pore placement may influence puncture performance in snake fangs. J Exp Biol 2023; 226:jeb245666. [PMID: 37642375 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.245666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
When designing experimental studies, it is important to understand the biological context of the question being asked. For example, many biological puncture experiments embed the puncture tool to a standardized depth based on a percentage of the total tool length, to compare the performance between tools. However, this may not always be biologically relevant to the question being asked. To understand how definitions of penetration depth may influence comparative results, we performed puncture experiments on a series of venomous snake fangs using the venom pore location as a functionally relevant depth standard. After exploring variation in pore placement across snake phylogeny, we compared the work expended during puncture experiments across a set of snake fangs using various depth standards: puncture initiation, penetration to a series of depths defined by the venom pore and penetration to 15% of fang length. Contrary to our hypothesis, we found almost no pattern in pore placement between clades, dietary groups or venom toxicity. Rank correlation statistics of our experimental energetics results showed no difference in the broad comparison of fangs when different puncture depth standards were used. However, pairwise comparisons between fangs showed major shifts in significance patterns between the different depth standards used. These results imply that the interpretation of experimental puncture data will heavily depend upon which depth standard is used during the experiments. Our results illustrate the importance of understanding the biological context of the question being addressed when designing comparative experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Philip S L Anderson
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior, School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Eggs B, Fischer S, Csader M, Mikó I, Rack A, Betz O. Terebra steering in chalcidoid wasps. Front Zool 2023; 20:26. [PMID: 37553687 PMCID: PMC10408236 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-023-00503-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Various chalcidoid wasps can actively steer their terebra (= ovipositor shaft) in diverse directions, despite the lack of terebral intrinsic musculature. To investigate the mechanisms of these bending and rotational movements, we combined microscopical and microtomographical techniques, together with videography, to analyse the musculoskeletal ovipositor system of the ectoparasitoid pteromalid wasp Lariophagus distinguendus (Förster, 1841) and the employment of its terebra during oviposition. The ovipositor consists of three pairs of valvulae, two pairs of valvifers and the female T9 (9th abdominal tergum). The paired 1st and the 2nd valvulae are interlocked via the olistheter system, which allows the three parts to slide longitudinally relative to each other, and form the terebra. The various ovipositor movements are actuated by a set of nine paired muscles, three of which (i.e. 1st valvifer-genital membrane muscle, ventral 2nd valvifer-venom gland reservoir muscle, T9-genital membrane muscle) are described here for the first time in chalcidoids. The anterior and posterior 2nd valvifer-2nd valvula muscles are adapted in function. (1) In the active probing position, they enable the wasps to pull the base of each of the longitudinally split and asymmetrically overlapping halves of the 2nd valvula that are fused at the apex dorsally, thus enabling lateral bending of the terebra. Concurrently, the 1st valvulae can be pro- and retracted regardless of this bending. (2) These muscles can also rotate the 2nd valvula and therefore the whole terebra at the basal articulation, allowing bending in various directions. The position of the terebra is anchored at the puncture site in hard substrates (in which drilling is extremely energy- and time-consuming). A freely steerable terebra increases the chance of contacting a potential host within a concealed cavity. The evolution of the ability actively to steer the terebra can be considered a key innovation that has putatively contributed to the acquisition of new hosts to a parasitoid's host range. Such shifts in host exploitation, each followed by rapid radiations, have probably aided the evolutionary success of Chalcidoidea (with more than 500,000 species estimated).
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Eggs
- Evolutionary Biology of Invertebrates, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Stefan Fischer
- Evolutionary Biology of Invertebrates, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
- Tübingen Structural Microscopy Core Facility (TSM), University of Tübingen, Schnarrenbergstraße 94-96, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michael Csader
- Evolutionary Biology of Invertebrates, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
- State Museum of Natural History Karlsruhe, Erbprinzenstraße 13, 76133, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - István Mikó
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Hampshire Collection of Insects and Other Arthropods, University of New Hampshire, Spaulding Hall, Durham, NH, 03824, USA
| | - Alexander Rack
- ESRF - The European Synchrotron, Structure of Materials Group - ID19, CS 40220, 38043, Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | - Oliver Betz
- Evolutionary Biology of Invertebrates, Institute of Evolution and Ecology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 28, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
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Zhang B, Anderson PSL. Investigation of the rate-mediated form-function relationship in biological puncture. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12097. [PMID: 37495672 PMCID: PMC10372153 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39092-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Puncture is a vital mechanism for survival in a wide range of organisms across phyla, serving biological functions such as prey capture, defense, and reproduction. Understanding how the shape of the puncture tool affects its functional performance is crucial to uncovering the mechanics underlying the diversity and evolution of puncture-based systems. However, such form-function relationships are often complicated by the dynamic nature of living systems. Puncture systems in particular operate over a wide range of speeds to penetrate biological tissues. Current studies on puncture biomechanics lack systematic characterization of the complex, rate-mediated, interaction between tool and material across this dynamic range. To fill this knowledge gap, we establish a highly controlled experimental framework for dynamic puncture to investigate the relationship between the puncture performance (characterized by the depth of puncture) and the tool sharpness (characterized by the cusp angle) across a wide range of bio-relevant puncture speeds (from quasi-static to [Formula: see text] 50 m/s). Our results show that the sensitivity of puncture performance to variations in tool sharpness reduces at higher puncture speeds. This trend is likely due to rate-based viscoelastic and inertial effects arising from how materials respond to dynamic loads. The rate-dependent form-function relationship has important biological implications: While passive/low-speed puncture organisms likely rely heavily on sharp puncture tools to successfully penetrate and maintain functionalities, higher-speed puncture systems may allow for greater variability in puncture tool shape due to the relatively geometric-insensitive puncture performance, allowing for higher adaptability during the evolutionary process to other mechanical factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingyang Zhang
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior, School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
| | - Philip S L Anderson
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior, School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
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Ramirez-Esquivel F, Ravi S. Functional anatomy of the worker honeybee stinger ( Apis mellifera). iScience 2023; 26:107103. [PMID: 37485367 PMCID: PMC10359947 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The honeybee stinger is a powerful defense mechanism that combines painful venom, a subcutaneous delivery system, and the ability to autotomize. It is a complex organ and to function autonomously it must carry with it all the anatomical components required to operate. In this study, we combined high-speed filming, SEM imagery, and micro-CT for volumetric rendering of the stinger with a synthesis of existing literature. We present a comprehensive description of all components, including cuticular elements, musculature, nervous and glandular tissue using updated imagery. We draw from the Hymenoptera literature to make interspecific comparisons where relevant. The use of 3D reconstruction allows us to separate stinger components and present the first 3D renders of the bee stinger including the terminal abdominal ganglion and its projections. It also clarifies the in-situ geometry of the valves within the bulb and the spatial relationships among the accessory plates and accompanying musculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiorella Ramirez-Esquivel
- School of Engineering and Information Technology, University of New South Wales, Canberra, ACT 2612, Australia
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia
| | - Sridhar Ravi
- School of Engineering and Information Technology, University of New South Wales, Canberra, ACT 2612, Australia
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Jiao S, Zhang X, Cai H, Wu S, Ou X, Han G, Zhao J, Li Y, Guo W, Liu T, Qu W. Recent advances in biomimetic hemostatic materials. Mater Today Bio 2023; 19:100592. [PMID: 36936399 PMCID: PMC10020683 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the past decade has witnessed unprecedented medical advances, achieving rapid and effective hemostasis remains challenging. Uncontrolled bleeding and wound infections continue to plague healthcare providers, increasing the risk of death. Various types of hemostatic materials are nowadays used during clinical practice but have many limitations, including poor biocompatibility, toxicity and biodegradability. Recently, there has been a burgeoning interest in organisms that stick to objects or produce sticky substances. Indeed, applying biological adhesion properties to hemostatic materials remains an interesting approach. This paper reviews the biological behavior, bionics, and mechanisms related to hemostasis. Furthermore, this paper covers the benefits, challenges and prospects of biomimetic hemostatic materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simin Jiao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, 71 Xinmin Street, Changchun, 130021, PR China
| | - Hang Cai
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Siyu Wu
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Xiaolan Ou
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Guangda Han
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, 130022, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- Trauma and Reparative Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- The Division of Orthopedics and Biotechnology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Wenlai Guo
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, 130041, PR China
- Corresponding author.
| | - Tianzhou Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, 130041, PR China
- Corresponding author.
| | - Wenrui Qu
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, 130041, PR China
- Corresponding author.
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Nguyen TN, Jeng MJ, Chen NY, Yang CC. Outcomes of wasp and bee stings in Taiwan. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2023; 61:181-185. [PMID: 36892552 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2023.2173075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The families of Hymenoptera causing commonly poisonous animal stings in Taiwan include Apoidea (bee) and Vespidae (wasp). This study aimed to investigate the epidemiologic, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of the severity of envenomation following wasp or bee stings in Taiwan. METHODS We conducted a retrospective study by identifying all wasp and bee sting-related envenomation reported to the Taiwan National Poison Control Center between January 2001 and November 2021. Data were reviewed and abstracted by two independent reviewers. We then used ordinal logistic regression analysis to find potential predictors of severe wasp and bee sting-related envenomation. RESULTS In Taiwan, bee or wasp stings mainly occur in late summer and autumn. A total of 611 patients were reported to the Taiwan National Poison Control Center with 7.5% resulting in severe or fatal envenomation. Four-hundred and forty-one patients were eligible for the final analysis of the predictors of severity. Logistic regression analysis showed that a greater number of stings, being stung by wasps, older age, and stings over the body were significant predictors for greater severity. The systemic effects following wasp and bee sting included anaphylactic reaction, prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin time, rhabdomyolysis, acute kidney injury, and elevated liver enzymes. CONCLUSIONS Wasps generally inflicted more severe envenomation than bees. Only 7.5% of patients had severe or fatal outcomes. Patients with older age, multiple stings, and/or multiple sites of stings were more likely to have severe outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Ngat Nguyen
- Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Mei-Jy Jeng
- Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Nai-Yu Chen
- Taiwan National Poison Control Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Chang Yang
- Taiwan National Poison Control Center, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Occupational Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Bar-On B. The effect of structural curvature on the load-bearing characteristics of biomechanical elements. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2023; 138:105569. [PMID: 36549249 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2022.105569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Miniature, sharped-edge, curved-shape biomechanical elements appear in various biological systems and grant them diverse functional capabilities, such as mechanical defense, venom injection, and frictional support. While these biomechanical elements demonstrate diverse curved shapes that span from slightly curved needle-like elements (e.g., stingers), through moderately curved anchor-like elements (e.g., claws), to highly curved hook-like elements (e.g., fangs)-the curvature effect on the load-bearing capabilities of these biomechanical elements are yet mostly unknown. Here, we employ structural-mechanical modeling to explore the relationships between the curved shapes of biomechanical elements on their local deformation mechanisms, overall elastic stiffness, and reaction forces on a target surface. We found that the curvature of the biomechanical element is a prime modulator of its load-bearing characteristics that substantially affect its functional capabilities. Slightly curved elements are preferable for penetration states with optimal load-bearing capabilities parallel to their tips but possess high directional sensitivity and degraded capabilities for scratching states; contrary, highly curved elements are suitable for combined penetration-scratching states with mild directional sensitivity and optimal load-bearing capabilities in specialized angular orientation to their tips. These structural-mechanical principles are tightly linked to the intrinsic functional roles of biomechanical elements in diverse natural systems, and their synthetic realizations may promote new engineering designs of advanced biomedical injections, functional surfaces, and micromechanical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benny Bar-On
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, 84105, Israel.
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11
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Sunagar K, Khochare S, Jaglan A, Senthil S, Suranse V. Stings on wings: Proteotranscriptomic and biochemical profiling of the lesser banded hornet ( Vespa affinis) venom. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:1066793. [PMID: 36601583 PMCID: PMC9806352 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.1066793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Distinct animal lineages have convergently recruited venoms as weaponry for prey capture, anti-predator defence, conspecific competition, or a combination thereof. Most studies, however, have been primarily confined to a narrow taxonomic breadth. The venoms of cone snails, snakes, spiders and scorpions remain particularly well-investigated. Much less explored are the venoms of wasps (Order: Hymenoptera) that are infamous for causing excruciating and throbbing pain, justifying their apex position on Schmidt's pain index, including some that are rated four on four. For example, the lesser banded wasp (V. affinis) is clinically important yet has only been the subject of a few studies, despite being commonly found across tropical and subtropical Asia. Stings from these wasps, especially from multiple individuals of a nest, often lead to clinically severe manifestations, including mastocytosis, myasthenia gravis, optic neuropathy, and life-threatening pathologies such as myocardial infarction and organ failure. However, their venom composition and activity remain unexplored in the Indian subcontinent. Here, we report the proteomic composition, transcriptomic profile, and biochemical and pharmacological activities of V. affinis venom from southern India. Our findings suggest that wasp venoms are rich in diverse toxins that facilitate antipredator defence. Biochemical and pharmacological assessments reveal that these toxins can exhibit significantly higher activities than their homologues in medically important snakes. Their ability to exert potent effects on diverse molecular targets makes them a treasure trove for discovering life-saving therapeutics. Fascinatingly, wasp venoms, being evolutionarily ancient, exhibit a greater degree of compositional and sequence conservation across very distant populations/species, which contrasts with the patterns of venom evolution observed in evolutionarily younger lineages, such as advanced snakes and cone snails.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kartik Sunagar
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
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12
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Anderson PSL, Kawano SM. Different traits at different rates: The effects of dynamic strain rate on structural traits in biology. Integr Comp Biol 2022; 62:icac066. [PMID: 35640914 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icac066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic diversity is influenced by physical laws that govern how an organism's morphology relates to functional performance. To study comparative organismal biology, we need to quantify this diversity using biological traits (definable aspects of the morphology, behavior, and/or life history of an organism). Traits are often assumed to be immutable properties that need only be measured a single time in each adult. However, organisms often experience changes in their biotic and abiotic environments that can alter trait function. In particular, structural traits represent the physical capabilities of an organism and may be heavily influenced by the rate at which they are exposed to physical demands ('loads'). For instance, materials tend to become more brittle when loaded at faster rates which could negatively affect structures trying to resist those loads (e.g., brittle materials are more likely to fracture). In the following perspective piece, we address the dynamic properties of structural traits and present case studies that demonstrate how dynamic strain rates affect the function of these traits in diverse groups of organisms. First, we review how strain rate affects deformation and fracture in biomaterials and demonstrate how these effects alter puncture mechanics in systems such as snake strikes. Second, we discuss how different rates of bone loading affect the locomotor biomechanics of vertebrates and their ecology. Through these examinations of diverse taxa and ecological functions, we aim to highlight how rate-dependent properties of structural traits can generate dynamic form-function relationships in response to changing environmental conditions. Findings from these studies serve as a foundation to develop more nuanced ecomechanical models that can predict how complex traits emerge and, thereby, advance progress on outlining the Rules of Life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip S L Anderson
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior; University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61820, U.S.A
| | - Sandy M Kawano
- Department of Biological Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, D.C. 20052, U.S.A
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Schistosomicidal efficacy of bee venom-loaded pluronic F127 nanomicelles in S. mansoni infected CD1 mice. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2022.103344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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14
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Ma X, Bian Q, Hu J, Gao J. Stem from nature: Bioinspired adhesive formulations for wound healing. J Control Release 2022; 345:292-305. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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15
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Ma J, Zhao ZL, Lin S, Xie YM. Topology of leaf veins: Experimental observation and computational morphogenesis. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2021; 123:104788. [PMID: 34428694 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2021.104788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The unique, hierarchical patterns of leaf veins have attracted extensive attention in recent years. However, it remains unclear how biological and mechanical factors influence the topology of leaf veins. In this paper, we investigate the optimization mechanisms of leaf veins through a combination of experimental measurements and numerical simulations. The topological details of three types of representative plant leaves are measured. The experimental results show that the vein patterns are insensitive to leaf shapes and curvature. The numbers of secondary veins are independent of the length of the main vein, and the total length of veins increases linearly with the leaf perimeter. By integrating biomechanical mechanisms into the topology optimization process, a transdisciplinary computational method is developed to optimize leaf structures. The numerical results show that improving the efficiency of nutrient transport plays a critical role in the morphogenesis of leaf veins. Contrary to the popular belief in the literature, this study shows that the structural performance is not a key factor in determining the venation patterns. The findings provide a deep understanding of the optimization mechanism of leaf veins, which is useful for the design of high-performance shell structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaming Ma
- Centre for Innovative Structures and Materials, School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3001, Australia
| | - Zi-Long Zhao
- Centre for Innovative Structures and Materials, School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3001, Australia
| | - Sen Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Design and Manufacturing for Vehicle Body, College of Mechanical and Vehicle Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, China
| | - Yi Min Xie
- Centre for Innovative Structures and Materials, School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3001, Australia.
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16
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Das TS, Das BB, Mote C. In vivo and invitro experimentation for scientific validation of the traditional use of Chromolaena odorata (L.) against envenomation of honey bee sting. ADVANCES IN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13596-021-00593-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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17
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Jansen MA, Niverty S, Chawla N, Franz NM. Reducing the risk of rostral bending failure in Curculio Linnaeus, 1758. Acta Biomater 2021; 126:350-371. [PMID: 33753315 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
With over 300 species worldwide, the genus Curculio Linnaeus, 1758 is a widespread, morphologically diverse lineage of weevils that mainly parasitize nuts. Females use the rostrum, an elongate cuticular extension of the head, to excavate oviposition sites. This process causes extreme bending and deformation of the rostrum, without apparent harm to the structure. The cuticle of the rostral apex exhibits substantial modifications to its composite structure that enhance the elasticity and resiliency of this structure. Here we develop finite element models of the head and rostrum for three Curculio species representing disparate North American clades and rostral morphotypes. The models were subjected to varying apical loads and to prescribed dislocation of the head capsule, with and without representing the cuticular modifications of the rostral apex. We found that the altered layer thicknesses and macrofiber orientation angles of the rostral apex fully explain the observed elasticity of the rostrum. These modifications have a synergistic effect that greatly enhances the flexibility of the rostral apex. Consequently, the cuticle composite profile of the rostral apex substantially mitigates the risk of fracture in dorso-apical flexion. Removing the cuticular modifications, in turn, causes a negative margin of safety for rostral bending, implying strong risk of catastrophic structural failure. The occipital sulci were identified as an important source of biomechanical constraint upon the elasticity of the rostrum, and exhibit the greatest risk of failure within this structure. The apical cuticle profile greatly reduced the maximum stresses and strain energy accumulated in the rostrum, thereby resulting in a positive margin of safety and reducing the risk of fracture. Our findings imply that the primary selective pressure influencing the evolution of the rostral cuticle was most likely negative selection of structural failure caused by bending. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Weevils are among the most diverse and evolutionarily successful animal lineages on Earth. Their success is driven in part by a structure called the rostrum, which gives weevil heads a characteristic "snout-like" appearance. Nut weevils in the genus Curculio use the rostrum to drill holes into developing fruits and nuts, into which they deposit their eggs. During oviposition this exceedingly slender structure is bent into a straightened configuration - in some species up to 90∘ - but does not suffer any damage during this process. Using finite element models of the rostra of three morphologically distinct species, we show that the Curculio rostrum is only able to withstand repeated, extreme bending because of modifications to the composite structure of the cuticle in the rostral apex. These modifications were shown previously to enhance the intrinsic toughness of the cuticle; in this study, we demonstrate that modification of the rostral cuticle also results in more evenly distributed bending stresses, further reducing the risk of fracture. This is the first time that the laminate profile, orthotropic behavior, and functional gradation of the cuticle have been incorporated into a three-dimensional finite element model of an insect cuticular structure. Our models highlight the significance of biomechanical constraint - i.e., avoidance of catastrophic structural failure - on the evolution of insect morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Andrew Jansen
- Institut für Evolutionsbiologie und Zooökologie, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Bonn 53113, Germany.
| | - Sridhar Niverty
- School of Materials Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Nikhilesh Chawla
- School of Materials Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Nico M Franz
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
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18
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Li S, Liu P, Lin W, Tian J, Miao C, Zhang X, Zhang R, Peng J, Zhang H, Gu P, Zhang Z, Wang Z, Luo T. Optimized Hierarchical Structure and Chemical Gradients Promote the Biomechanical Functions of the Spike of Mantis Shrimps. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:17380-17391. [PMID: 33822600 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c02867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The tail spike of the mantis shrimp is the appendage for counteracting the enemy from behind. Here, we investigate the correlations between the chemical compositions, the microstructures, and the mechanical properties of the spike. We find that the spike is a hollow beam with a varying cross section along the length. The cross section comprises four different layers with distinct features of microstructures and chemical compositions. The local mechanical properties of these layers correlate well with the microstructures and chemical compositions, a combination of which effectively restricts the crack propagation while maximizing the release of strain energy during deformation. Finite element analysis and mechanics modeling demonstrate that the optimized structure of the spike confines the mechanical damage in the region near the tip and prevents catastrophic breakage at the base. Furthermore, we use a 3D printing technique to fabricate multiple hollow cylindrical samples consisting of biomimetic microstructures of the spike and confirm that the combination of the Bouligand structure with radially oriented parallel sheets greatly improves the toughness and strength during compression tests. The multiscale design strategy of the spike revealed here is expected to be of great interest for the development of novel bioinspired materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230052, China
| | - Pan Liu
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, School of Civil Engineering, and State Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Hydropower Engineering Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Weiqin Lin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230052, China
| | - Jie Tian
- Experimental Center of Engineering and Materials Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230052, China
| | - Chunguang Miao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230052, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230052, China
| | - Ruogu Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230052, China
| | - Jinlan Peng
- Center for Micro and Nanoscale Research and Fabrication, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230052, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Hefei Institute of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shushanhu Road 350, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Ping Gu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230052, China
| | - Zuoqi Zhang
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, School of Civil Engineering, and State Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Hydropower Engineering Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Zhengzhi Wang
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, School of Civil Engineering, and State Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Hydropower Engineering Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Tianzhi Luo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230052, China
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19
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Kundanati L, Guarino R, Menegon M, Pugno NM. Mechanics of snake biting: Experiments and modelling. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2020; 112:104020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2020.104020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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20
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Dulaurent T, Perard B, Mathieson I, Dulaurent AM, Isard PF. Corneal bee sting in a Bengal cat. JFMS Open Rep 2020; 6:2055116920962431. [PMID: 33194217 PMCID: PMC7605039 DOI: 10.1177/2055116920962431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Case summary A 6-month-old female Bengal cat was referred for a suspected vegetal foreign body (FB) in the mid-stroma of the right cornea. A small dark linear FB was identified in the dorsal aspect of the cornea, with associated cell infiltrate. Ophthalmic examination was otherwise normal, with no inflammatory reaction of the anterior uvea, and no abnormalities of the lens or fundus. Surgical removal was performed under general anesthesia. The FB, as observed under an optic microscope, was a worker bee stinger without the venom sac. Medical treatment consisted of topical and systemic antibiotics and steroids, and topical administration of atropine. Follow-up was uneventful. Relevance and novel information Ocular bee stings have been described in humans, with several consequences ranging from mild conjunctivitis to severe lesions affecting the cornea, iris, lens and retina. Most severely affected cases have been observed when the venom sac was found with the stinger, with a likely greater amount of venom being delivered into the ocular structures. The relatively benign presentation of this case was probably due to the lack of the venom sac within the bee sting. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of a corneal bee sting in a cat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Dulaurent
- Saint-Martin Hospital Veterinary Centre, Saint Martin Bellevue, France
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21
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Arenales A, Gardiner CH, Miranda FR, Dutra KS, Oliveira AR, Mol JP, Texeira da Costa ME, Tinoco HP, Coelho CM, Silva RO, Pinto HA, Hoppe EG, Werther K, Santos RL. Pathology of Free-Ranging and Captive Brazilian Anteaters. J Comp Pathol 2020; 180:55-68. [PMID: 33222875 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2020.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
There is little information on the anatomical pathology of Brazilian anteaters. Considering the relevance of knowledge of diseases of these species for their conservation, the aim of this study was to describe pathological changes in 99 captive and free-ranging anteaters from the Brazilian states of São Paulo, Minas Gerais, Bahia, Mato Grosso do Sul and Amazonas. Forty-two animals were killed on roads and 10 died from burns injuries. Other significant conditions included the metabolic diseases of iron storage disease, tissue mineralization and taurine deficiency, protozoan and metazoan infections, candidiasis, sporotrichosis, clostridiosis and proliferative disorders including squamous cell carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Arenales
- Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Chris H Gardiner
- Veterinary Pathology Service Joint Pathology Center, Silver Spring, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Kateanne S Dutra
- Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ayisa R Oliveira
- Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Juliana Ps Mol
- Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Maria El Texeira da Costa
- Fundação de Parques Municipais e Zoobotânica de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Herlandes P Tinoco
- Fundação de Parques Municipais e Zoobotânica de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Carlyle M Coelho
- Fundação de Parques Municipais e Zoobotânica de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Os Silva
- Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Hudson A Pinto
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Estevam Gl Hoppe
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Brazil
| | - Karin Werther
- Departamento de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renato Lima Santos
- Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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22
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Wang Y, Fu Z, Zhao ZF, Shen Y, Zhang TF, Shi WY, Fei J, Chen GB. Experimental study of the optimum puncture pattern of robot-assisted needle insertion into hyperelastic materials. Proc Inst Mech Eng H 2020; 235:28-43. [PMID: 32873144 DOI: 10.1177/0954411920950904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The robot-assisted insertion surgery plays a crucial role in biopsy and therapy. This study focuses on determining the optimum puncture pattern for robot-assisted insertion, aiming at the matching problem of needle insertion parameters, thereby to reduce the pain for patients and to improve the reachability to the lesion point. First, a 6-degrees of freedom (DOFs) Computed Tomography (CT)-guided surgical robotic system for minimally invasive percutaneous lung is developed and used to perform puncture experiments. The effects of four main insertion factors on the robotic puncture are verified by designing the orthogonal test, where the inserting object is the artificial skin-like specimen with high transparent property and a digital image processing method is used to analyze the needle tip deflection. Next, the various phases of puncture process are divided and analyzed in detail in view of the tissue deformation and puncture force. Then, short discussion on the comparison of puncture force with different effect factors for the same beveled needle is presented. The same pattern can be observed for all of the cases. Finally, based on the experimental data, the formulations of the puncture force and needle deflection which depends on Gauge size, insertion velocity, insertion angle, and insertion depth are developed using the multiple regression method, which can be used to get an optimum puncture pattern under the constrains of minimum peak force and minimum needle tip deflection. The developed models have the effectiveness and applicability on determining the optimum puncture pattern for one puncture event, and which can also provide insights useful for the setting of insertion parameters in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanical System and Vibration, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhuang Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanical System and Vibration, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Yun Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanical System and Vibration, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tie-Feng Zhang
- Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Yi Shi
- Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Fei
- Baoshan District Dachang Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Guang-Biao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanical System and Vibration, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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23
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Lehnert MS, Reiter KE, Smith GA, Kritsky G. An augmented wood-penetrating structure: Cicada ovipositors enhanced with metals and other inorganic elements. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19731. [PMID: 31874983 PMCID: PMC6930284 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56203-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Few insect species are as popular as periodical cicadas (Magicicada spp.). Despite representing an enormous biomass and numbers that exceed 370/m2 during mass emergences, the extended time period of the underground nymphal stages (up to 17 years) complicates investigations of their life history traits and ecology. Upon emergence, female cicadas mate and then use their ovipositors to cut through wood to lay their eggs. Given the ability to penetrate into wood, we hypothesized that the ovipositor cuticle is augmented with inorganic elements, which could increase hardness and reduce ovipositor fracturing. We used scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy to evaluate the material properties of ovipositors of four cicada species, including three species of periodical cicadas. We found 14 inorganic elements of the cuticle, of which P, Ca, Si, Mg, Na, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cl, K, and S show the highest concentrations (%wt) near the apex of the ovipositor, where other structural modifications for penetrating wood are present. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of metal deposits in the cuticle of true bugs (Hemiptera, >80,000 described species).
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Lehnert
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University at Stark, North Canton, OH, 44720, USA.
| | - Kristen E Reiter
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University at Stark, North Canton, OH, 44720, USA.,Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Gregory A Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University at Stark, North Canton, OH, 44720, USA
| | - Gene Kritsky
- School of Behavioral and Natural Sciences, Mount St. Joseph University, Cincinnati, OH, 45233, USA
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24
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Crofts SB, Lai Y, Hu Y, Anderson PSL. How do morphological sharpness measures relate to puncture performance in viperid snake fangs? Biol Lett 2019; 15:20180905. [PMID: 30991915 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2018.0905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
It makes intuitive sense that you need a sharp tool to puncture through a tough material. The typical approach to evaluating sharpness in biological puncturing tools is to treat morphological measurements as a proxy for puncture ability. However, there are multiple approaches to measuring sharpness, and the relative influence of morphology on function remains unclear. Our goal is to determine what aspects of tip morphology have the greatest impact on puncture ability, using ( a) viper fangs and ( b) engineered punches to isolate the effects of different sharpness measures. Our results indicate that tip included angle is the strongest predictor of puncture performance in both viper fangs and engineered punches. For puncture tools with small included angles, sharpness index (based on the radius of curvature) also affects puncture ability. Finally, we found that punches serve as good predictors of fang performance at small angles and sharpness index values.
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Affiliation(s)
- S B Crofts
- 1 Department of Animal Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , 515 Morrill Hall, 505 South Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801 , USA
| | - Y Lai
- 2 George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology , 801 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332 , USA
| | - Y Hu
- 2 George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology , 801 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332 , USA.,3 School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology , 311 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332 , USA
| | - P S L Anderson
- 1 Department of Animal Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , 515 Morrill Hall, 505 South Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801 , USA
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25
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Pucca MB, Cerni FA, Oliveira IS, Jenkins TP, Argemí L, Sørensen CV, Ahmadi S, Barbosa JE, Laustsen AH. Bee Updated: Current Knowledge on Bee Venom and Bee Envenoming Therapy. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2090. [PMID: 31552038 PMCID: PMC6743376 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Honey bees can be found all around the world and fulfill key pollination roles within their natural ecosystems, as well as in agriculture. Most species are typically docile, and most interactions between humans and bees are unproblematic, despite their ability to inject a complex venom into their victims as a defensive mechanism. Nevertheless, incidences of bee stings have been on the rise since the accidental release of Africanized bees to Brazil in 1956 and their subsequent spread across the Americas. These bee hybrids are more aggressive and are prone to attack, presenting a significant healthcare burden to the countries they have colonized. To date, treatment of such stings typically focuses on controlling potential allergic reactions, as no specific antivenoms against bee venom currently exist. Researchers have investigated the possibility of developing bee antivenoms, but this has been complicated by the very low immunogenicity of the key bee toxins, which fail to induce a strong antibody response in the immunized animals. However, with current cutting-edge technologies, such as phage display, alongside the rise of monoclonal antibody therapeutics, the development of a recombinant bee antivenom is achievable, and promising results towards this goal have been reported in recent years. Here, current knowledge on the venom biology of Africanized bees and current treatment options against bee envenoming are reviewed. Additionally, recent developments within next-generation bee antivenoms are presented and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela B. Pucca
- Medical School, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, Brazil
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Felipe A. Cerni
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Isadora S. Oliveira
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Timothy P. Jenkins
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Lídia Argemí
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Christoffer V. Sørensen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Shirin Ahmadi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosafety, Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - José E. Barbosa
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Andreas H. Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
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26
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Stetsun H, Rajabi H, Matushkina N, Gorb SN. Functional morphology of the sting in two digger wasps (Hymenoptera: Crabronidae) with different types of prey transport. ARTHROPOD STRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT 2019; 52:100882. [PMID: 31472312 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2019.100882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Digger wasps of the family Crabronidae (Insecta: Hymenoptera) are generally known to use their sting to paralyze or kill a prey. However, only a few species of digger wasps transport their prey to the nest impaled on the sting. How sting morphology correlates with this peculiar type of prey carriage is still unclear. We examined the sting morphology of two phylogenetically closely-related species of digger wasps of similar size, which hunt for similar preys but use different types of prey transportation. Data from light microscopy (LM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) were analyzed to find possible correlations between shape, material composition, and function of the stings. The similarity of the material composition in the stings of the two species suggests that the material of stings does not play a dominant role in their functional differences. On the contrary, differences in the curvature and surface sculpture of sting elements likely result in different stress distributions under mechanical loading.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Stetsun
- Department of Taxonomy of Entomophagous Insects and Ecological Principles of Biocontrol, Schmalhausen Institute of Zoology, NAS of Ukraine, vul. B. Khmelnytskogo, 15, 01030 Kyiv, Ukraine; Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute, Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 9, 24098 Kiel, Germany.
| | - H Rajabi
- Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute, Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 9, 24098 Kiel, Germany.
| | - N Matushkina
- Department of Ecology and Zoology, Institute of Biology and Medicine, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, vul. Volodymirs'ka, 64, 01033 Kyiv, Ukraine.
| | - S N Gorb
- Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute, Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 9, 24098 Kiel, Germany.
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27
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Anderson PSL, Crofts SB, Kim JT, Chamorro LP. Taking a Stab at Quantifying the Energetics of Biological Puncture. Integr Comp Biol 2019; 59:1586-1596. [DOI: 10.1093/icb/icz078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
An organism’s ability to control the timing and direction of energy flow both within its body and out to the surrounding environment is vital to maintaining proper function. When physically interacting with an external target, the mechanical energy applied by the organism can be transferred to the target as several types of output energy, such as target deformation, target fracture, or as a transfer of momentum. The particular function being performed will dictate which of these results is most adaptive to the organism. Chewing food favors fracture, whereas running favors the transfer of momentum from the appendages to the ground. Here, we explore the relationship between deformation, fracture, and momentum transfer in biological puncture systems. Puncture is a widespread behavior in biology requiring energy transfer into a target to allow fracture and subsequent insertion of the tool. Existing correlations between both tool shape and tool dynamics with puncture success do not account for what energy may be lost due to deformation and momentum transfer in biological systems. Using a combination of pendulum tests and particle tracking velocimetry (PTV), we explored the contributions of fracture, deformation and momentum to puncture events using a gaboon viper fang. Results on unrestrained targets illustrate that momentum transfer between tool and target, controlled by the relative masses of the two, can influence the extent of fracture achieved during high-speed puncture. PTV allowed us to quantify deformation throughout the target during puncture and tease apart how input energy is partitioned between deformation and fracture. The relationship between input energy, target deformation and target fracture is non-linear; increasing impact speed from 2.0 to 2.5 m/s created no further fracture, but did increase deformation while increasing speed to 3.0 m/s allowed an equivalent amount of fracture to be achieved for less overall deformation. These results point to a new framework for examining puncture systems, where the relative resistances to deformation, fracture and target movement dictate where energy flows during impact. Further developing these methods will allow researchers to quantify the energetics of puncture systems in a way that is comparable across a broad range of organisms and connect energy flow within an organism to how that energy is eventually transferred to the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip S L Anderson
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Stephanie B Crofts
- Department of Animal Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Jin-Tae Kim
- Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Leonardo P Chamorro
- Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA
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Expression of eosinophils, RANTES and IL-25 in the first phase of Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2019; 37:590-596. [PMID: 32994784 PMCID: PMC7507153 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2019.83655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Venom immunotherapy (VIT) can protect against severe anaphylactic reactions (SR) in 80–100% of subjects allergic to Hymenoptera venom. The mechanisms of induction of immunological tolerance produced by VIT are still little known. It has been shown that VIT modulates Treg activity, Th2 or Th1 cells or both, increases production of IL-10, decreases secretion of IL-13, and causes an IgG4/IgE ratio shift. Aim To investigate the blood eosinophil count, CCL5/RANTES and IL-17E/IL-25 concentrations before and after the initial phases of the rush protocol of VIT. Material and methods Forty individuals (14 males, 26 females) of mean age 41.03 ±12.43 years were included in the study. The peripheral eosinophils and the concentration of serum interleukin IL-17E/IL-25 and RANTES were determined before and after the initial phase of VIT. Results Paired sample t-test revealed that all patients after VIT had significantly higher eosinophil levels compared to the baseline (mean: 0.42 vs. 0.64, p < 0.05). Moreover, in subjects treated with bee venom, RANTES levels proved to rise significantly (51 × 103 vs. 62 × 103, p < 0.05) while IL-17E/IL-25 dropped with near-marginal significance (916 vs. 650, p = 0.069). Conclusions Our immunological study on the early phase of venom immunotherapy suggested that eosinophils, cytokines such as CCL5/RANTES and IL-17E/IL-25 contribute to the immunological response.
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Mechanics of Arthropod Cuticle-Versatility by Structural and Compositional Variation. ARCHITECTURED MATERIALS IN NATURE AND ENGINEERING 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-11942-3_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Galloway KA, Porter ME. Mechanical properties of the venomous spines of Pterois volitans and morphology among lionfish species. J Exp Biol 2019; 222:jeb.197905. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.197905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The red lionfish, Pterois volitans, an invasive species, has 18 venomous spines: 13 dorsal, 3 anal, and one on each pelvic fin. Fish spines can have several purposes such as defense, intimidation, and for anchoring into crevices. Instead of having hollow spines, lionfish have a tri-lobed cross-sectional shape with grooves that deliver the venom, tapering towards the tip. We aim to quantify the impacts of shape (Second moment of area) and tapering on the mechanical properties of the spine. We performed two-point bending at several positions along the spines of P. volitans to determine mechanical properties (Young's modulus, Elastic energy storage, and Flexural stiffness). The short and recurved anal and pelvic spines are stiffer and resist bending more effectively than the long, dorsal spines. In addition, mechanical properties differ along the length of the spines, most likely because they are tapered. We hypothesize that the highly bendable dorsal spines are used for intimidation, making the fish look larger. The stiffer and energy absorbing anal and pelvic spines are smaller and less numerous, but they may be used for protection since they are located near important internal structures such as the swim bladder. Lastly, spine second moment of area varies across the Pterois genus. These data suggest there may be morphological and mechanical trade-offs among defense, protection, and intimidation of lionfish spines. Overall, the red lionfish venomous spine shape and mechanics may offer protection and intimidate potential predators, significantly contributing to their invasion success.
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Crofts SB, Anderson PSL. The influence of cactus spine surface structure on puncture performance and anchoring ability is tuned for ecology. Proc Biol Sci 2018; 285:rspb.2018.2280. [PMID: 30464068 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.2280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spines are common morphological features found in almost all major biological groups offering an opportunity to explore large-scale evolutionary convergence across disparate clades. As an example, opuntioid cacti have spines with barbed ornamentation that is remarkably similar in form and scale to that found on porcupine quills, suggesting specific biomechanical convergence across the animal and plant kingdoms. While the mechanics of porcupine quills as defensive mechanisms has been previously tested, the mechanics of cactus spines (which have evolved to fill a number of functions including defence, climbing and dispersal) has not been characterized. Here we study the puncturing and anchoring ability of six species of cactus, including both barbed and non-barbed spines. We found that barbed spines require less work to puncture a variety of targets than non-barbed spines. Barbed spines also require more work than non-barbed spines to withdraw from biological materials, owing to their barbs engaging with tissue fibres. These results closely match those found previously for barbed versus non-barbed porcupine quills, implying biomechanical convergence. The variation in performance of barbed versus non-barbed spines, as well as between barbed spines from different species, is probably tied to the diversity of ecological functions of cactus spines.
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Affiliation(s)
- S B Crofts
- School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign, 515 Morrill Hall, 505 S Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - P S L Anderson
- School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign, 515 Morrill Hall, 505 S Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Anderson PSL. Making a point: shared mechanics underlying the diversity of biological puncture. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 221:221/22/jeb187294. [PMID: 30446527 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.187294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
A viper injecting venom into a target, a mantis shrimp harpooning a fish, a cactus dispersing itself via spines attaching to passing mammals; all these are examples of biological puncture. Although disparate in terms of materials, kinematics and phylogeny, all three examples must adhere to the same set of fundamental physical laws that govern puncture mechanics. The diversity of biological puncture systems is a good case study for how physical laws can be used as a baseline for comparing disparate biological systems. In this Review, I explore the diversity of biological puncture and identify key variables that influence these systems. First, I explore recent work on biological puncture in a diversity of organisms, based on their hypothesized objectives: gripping, injection, damage and defence. Variation within each category is discussed, such as the differences between gripping for prey capture, gripping for dispersal of materials or gripping during reproduction. The second half of the Review is focused on specific physical parameters that influence puncture mechanics, such as material properties, stress, energy, speed and the medium within which puncture occurs. I focus on how these parameters have been examined in biology, and how they influence the evolution of biological systems. The ultimate objective of this Review is to outline an initial framework for examining the mechanics and evolution of puncture systems across biology. This framework will not only allow for broad biological comparisons, but also create a baseline for bioinspired design of both tools that puncture efficiently and materials that can resist puncture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip S L Anderson
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Integrative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Walker AA, Robinson SD, Yeates DK, Jin J, Baumann K, Dobson J, Fry BG, King GF. Entomo-venomics: The evolution, biology and biochemistry of insect venoms. Toxicon 2018; 154:15-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Das R, Yadav RN, Sihota P, Uniyal P, Kumar N, Bhushan B. Biomechanical Evaluation of Wasp and Honeybee Stingers. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14945. [PMID: 30297700 PMCID: PMC6175873 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33386-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to design a painless and mechanically durable micro syringe-needle system for biomedical applications, the study of insect stingers is of interest because of their elegant structures and functionalities. In the present work, the structure, mechanical properties and the mechanical behavior during insertion of wasp and honeybee stingers have been investigated. The non-invasive imaging tool, micro-computed tomography has been employed to reveal the 3D-structures of wasp and honeybee stingers. A quasi-static nanoindentation instrument was used to measure the nanomechanical properties. Both wasp and honeybee stingers have graded mechanical properties, decreasing along their longitudinal direction starting from the base. The computed tomography images and the measured material properties from nanoindentation were fed into a computational framework to determine the mechanical behavior of the stingers during penetration. The computation results predicted the penetration angle of +10° for the wasp stinger and −6° for the honeybee stinger, which mimics the practical insertion mechanism of both stingers. Based on this understanding, a wasp and honeybee stringer inspired micro syringe-needle design has also been proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Das
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar, Nangal Road, Rupnagar, Punjab, 140001, India
| | - Ram Naresh Yadav
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar, Nangal Road, Rupnagar, Punjab, 140001, India
| | - Praveer Sihota
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar, Nangal Road, Rupnagar, Punjab, 140001, India
| | - Piyush Uniyal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar, Nangal Road, Rupnagar, Punjab, 140001, India
| | - Navin Kumar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar, Nangal Road, Rupnagar, Punjab, 140001, India
| | - Bharat Bhushan
- Nanoprobe Laboratory for Bio- & Nanotechnology and Biomimetics (NLBB), The Ohio State University, 201 W. 19th Avenue, Columbus, OH, 43210-1142, USA.
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Chen Z, Lin Y, Lee W, Ren L, Liu B, Liang L, Wang Z, Jiang L. Additive Manufacturing of Honeybee-Inspired Microneedle for Easy Skin Insertion and Difficult Removal. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2018; 10:29338-29346. [PMID: 30091892 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b09563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
With natural evolution, honeybee stinger with microbarbs can easily penetrate and trap in the skin of hostile animals to inject venom for self-defense. We proposed a novel three-dimensional additive manufacturing method, namely magnetorheological drawing lithography, to efficiently fabricate a bioinspired microneedle imitating a honeybee stinger. Under the assistance of an external magnetic field, a parent microneedle was directly drawn on the pillar tip, and tilted microbarbs were subsequently formed on the four sides of the parent microneedle. Compared with the barbless microneedle, the microstructured barbs enable the bioinspired microneedle for easy skin insertion and difficult removal. The extraction-penetration force ratio of the bioinspired microneedle was triple that of the barbless microneedle. The stress concentration at the barbs helps to reduce the insertion force of the bioinspired microneedle by minimizing the frictional force, whereas it increases the adhesion force by interlocking the barbs in the tissue during retraction. Such finds may provide an inspiration for further design of barbed microtip-based microneedles for tissue adhesion, transdermal drug delivery, biosignal recording, and so on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhipeng Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, School of Biomedical Engineering , Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou 510006 , PR China
| | - Yinyan Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, School of Biomedical Engineering , Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou 510006 , PR China
| | - Weihsien Lee
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, School of Biomedical Engineering , Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou 510006 , PR China
| | - Lei Ren
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, School of Biomedical Engineering , Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou 510006 , PR China
| | - Bin Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, School of Biomedical Engineering , Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou 510006 , PR China
| | - Liang Liang
- National Engineering Research Center of Near-net-shape Forming for Metallic Materials , South China University of Technology , Guangzhou 510640 , PR China
| | - Zhi Wang
- National Engineering Research Center of Near-net-shape Forming for Metallic Materials , South China University of Technology , Guangzhou 510640 , PR China
| | - Lelun Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, School of Biomedical Engineering , Sun Yat-sen University , Guangzhou 510006 , PR China
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Liu Z, Zhang Z, Ritchie RO. On the Materials Science of Nature's Arms Race. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2018; 30:e1705220. [PMID: 29870573 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201705220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Biological material systems have evolved unique combinations of mechanical properties to fulfill their specific function through a series of ingenious designs. Seeking lessons from Nature by replicating the underlying principles of such biological materials offers new promise for creating unique combinations of properties in man-made systems. One case in point is Nature's means of attack and defense. During the long-term evolutionary "arms race," naturally evolved weapons have achieved exceptional mechanical efficiency with a synergy of effective offense and persistence-two characteristics that often tend to be mutually exclusive in many synthetic systems-which may present a notable source of new materials science knowledge and inspiration. This review categorizes Nature's weapons into ten distinct groups, and discusses the unique structural and mechanical designs of each group by taking representative systems as examples. The approach described is to extract the common principles underlying such designs that could be translated into man-made materials. Further, recent advances in replicating the design principles of natural weapons at differing lengthscales in artificial materials, devices and tools to tackle practical problems are revisited, and the challenges associated with biological and bioinspired materials research in terms of both processing and properties are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengqian Liu
- Shenyang National Laboratory for Materials Science, Institute of Metal Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110016, China
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Zhefeng Zhang
- Shenyang National Laboratory for Materials Science, Institute of Metal Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Robert O Ritchie
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
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Schroeder TBH, Houghtaling J, Wilts BD, Mayer M. It's Not a Bug, It's a Feature: Functional Materials in Insects. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2018; 30:e1705322. [PMID: 29517829 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201705322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Over the course of their wildly successful proliferation across the earth, the insects as a taxon have evolved enviable adaptations to their diverse habitats, which include adhesives, locomotor systems, hydrophobic surfaces, and sensors and actuators that transduce mechanical, acoustic, optical, thermal, and chemical signals. Insect-inspired designs currently appear in a range of contexts, including antireflective coatings, optical displays, and computing algorithms. However, as over one million distinct and highly specialized species of insects have colonized nearly all habitable regions on the planet, they still provide a largely untapped pool of unique problem-solving strategies. With the intent of providing materials scientists and engineers with a muse for the next generation of bioinspired materials, here, a selection of some of the most spectacular adaptations that insects have evolved is assembled and organized by function. The insects presented display dazzling optical properties as a result of natural photonic crystals, precise hierarchical patterns that span length scales from nanometers to millimeters, and formidable defense mechanisms that deploy an arsenal of chemical weaponry. Successful mimicry of these adaptations may facilitate technological solutions to as wide a range of problems as they solve in the insects that originated them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas B H Schroeder
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2300 Hayward Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Jared Houghtaling
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, 2200 Bonisteel Boulevard, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Bodo D Wilts
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Michael Mayer
- Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers 4, 1700, Fribourg, Switzerland
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Kundan KK, Ghatak A. The effect of shape on the fracture of a soft elastic gel subjected to shear load. SOFT MATTER 2018; 14:1365-1374. [PMID: 29383364 DOI: 10.1039/c7sm02392h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
For brittle solids, the fracture energy is the energy required to create a unit area of new surface through the process of division. For crosslinked materials, it is a function of the intrinsic properties like crosslinking density and bond strength of the crosslinks. Here we show that the energy released due to fracture can depend also on the shape of a joint made of this material. Our experiment involves two gel blocks connected via a thin gel disk. The disk is formed into different regular and exotic shapes, but with identical areas of cross-section. When one of the blocks is sheared with respect to the other, the shear load increases with vertical displacement, eventually causing a fracture at a threshold load. The maximum fracture load is different for different disks and among different regularly shaped disks, it is at a maximum for pentagon and hexagon shapes. The fracture energy release rate of the joint depends also on the aspect ratio (height/width) of the shapes. Our experiments also throw light on possible reasons for such a dependence on the shape of the joints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Kant Kundan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, UP 208016, India.
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Kim J, Park S, Nam G, Choi Y, Woo S, Yoon SH. Bioinspired microneedle insertion for deep and precise skin penetration with low force: Why the application of mechanophysical stimuli should be considered. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2018; 78:480-490. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2017.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Static flexural properties of hedgehog spines conditioned in coupled temperature and relative humidity environments. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2017; 75:413-422. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2017.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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A Foreign Body Granuloma of the Buccal Mucosa Induced by Honeybee Sting. Case Rep Dent 2017; 2017:7902978. [PMID: 28409038 PMCID: PMC5376400 DOI: 10.1155/2017/7902978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A foreign body granuloma of the buccal mucosa induced by honeybee sting was reported. The patient was an 82-year-old female who presented with a submucous mass at the right buccal mucosa. The mass was 20 mm in diameter, elastically firm, partly mobile without pain or tenderness, and covered with almost normal mucosa. MR image did not delineate the lesion clearly. Under clinical diagnosis of a benign tumor, the lesion was excised under local anesthesia. The excised lesion was 14 × 11 × 9 mm in size and solid and yellowish in cut surface. Histologically, the lesion consisted of granulomatous tissue with a few narrow, curved, eosinophilic structures compatible with decomposed fragments of a honeybee sting and was diagnosed as a foreign body granuloma, although the patient did not recall being stung.
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Ma G, Wu C. Microneedle, bio-microneedle and bio-inspired microneedle: A review. J Control Release 2017; 251:11-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2017.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 02/11/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Ling J, Song Z, Wang J, Chen K, Li J, Xu S, Ren L, Chen Z, Jin D, Jiang L. Effect of honeybee stinger and its microstructured barbs on insertion and pull force. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2017; 68:173-179. [PMID: 28171813 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2017.01.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Revised: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Worker honeybee is well-known for its stinger with microscopic backward-facing barbs for self-defense. The natural geometry of the stinger enables painless penetration and adhesion in the human skin to deliver poison. In this study, Apis cerana worker honeybee stinger and acupuncture microneedle (as a barbless stinger) were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The insertion and pull process of honeybee stinger into rabbit skin was performed by a self-developed mechanical loading equipment in comparison with acupuncture needle. In order to better understand the insertion and pull mechanisms of the stinger and its barbs in human multilayer skin, a nonlinear finite element method (FEM) was conducted. Experimental results showed that the average pull-out force of the stinger was 113.50mN and the average penetration force was only 5.75mN. The average penetration force of the stinger was about one order of magnitude smaller than that of an acupuncture microneedle while the average pull-out force was about 70 times larger than that of an acupuncture microneedle. FEM results showed that the stress concentrations were around the stinger tip and its barbs during the insertion process. The barbs were jammed in and torn the skin during the pull process. The insertion force of the stinger was greatly minimized due to its ultrasharp stinger tip and barbs while the pull force was seriously enhanced due to the mechanical interlocking of the barbs in the skin. These excellent properties are mainly a result of optimal geometry evolved by nature. Such finding may provide an inspiration for the further design of improved tissue adhesives and micro-needles for painless transdermal drug delivery and bio-signal recording.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintian Ling
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; Department of Medical Equipment, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510150, China
| | - Zhenhua Song
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Jiarui Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Keyun Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Jiyu Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Shujia Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Lei Ren
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Zhipeng Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Dianwen Jin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Lelun Jiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Sensor Technology and Biomedical Instrument, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China.
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Jorge A, Polidori C, Garcia-Guinea J, Nieves-Aldrey JL. Spectral cathodoluminescence analysis of hymenopteran mandibles with different levels of zinc enrichment in their teeth. ARTHROPOD STRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT 2017; 46:39-48. [PMID: 27450882 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2016.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The inclusion of Zn in insect mandibles affects their hardness and is functional to their use during feeding or reproducing. However, little is known on the chemical/structural base of Zn enrichment. Here, we found that cathodoluminescence (CL) technique revealed two different types of CL spectra in the mandibles of Hymenoptera, depending on the Zn enrichment level assessed by Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). Individuals having negligible traces to low % of Zn in their mandible teeth (≤3 wt%) presented a wide band of luminescence in the visible range which resembled those observed in the CC structures of graphite. This spectrum is probably characteristic for un-enriched cuticle, since it did not differ from those obtained from the Zn-lacking inner part of mandibles. Individuals with moderate to high % of Zn in their mandible teeth (≥7 wt%), instead, presented additional CL peaks in the ultraviolet range. Comparisons with different minerals of Zn suggest that these peaks could be related with OZnO bonds, with hydroxyl groups and with zinc-chlorine links (in agreement with Cl high levels detected by the EDS). Being a non-destructive technique, CL allows large comparative studies of the chemistry of metal-enriched insect cuticle even using unique specimens, such as those deposited in Natural History Museums.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Jorge
- Laboratorio de Microscopia, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), C/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2, E-28006, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Carlo Polidori
- Instituto de Ciencias Ambientales (ICAM), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Avenida Carlos III, s/n, E-45071, Toledo, Spain; Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, C2-P3 Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Javier Garcia-Guinea
- Departamento de Geología, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), C/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2, E-28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Luis Nieves-Aldrey
- Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), C/ José Gutiérrez Abascal 2, E-28006, Madrid, Spain
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Zhao ZL, Shu T, Feng XQ. Study of biomechanical, anatomical, and physiological properties of scorpion stingers for developing biomimetic materials. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2016; 58:1112-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2015.09.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2015] [Revised: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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