bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bismuth Sulfide Doped in Graphitic Carbon Nitride Degrades Nitric Oxide under Solar Irradiation
Authors: Hussain Adnan , Lin Chitsan , Cheruiyot Nicholas Kiprotich , Huang Wen-Yen , Lin Kuen-Song , Hussain Abrar
Published: October 2022

This study developed and examined the application of bismuth sulfide doped on graphitic carbon nitride (Bi2S3@g-C3N4) in the degradation of NO under solar irradiation. Bi2S3@g-C3N4 was prepared through the calcination method. The morphological structure and chemical properties of the synthesized photocatalyst were analyzed before the degradation tests. After doping with Bi2S3@g-C3N4, the bandgap was reduced to 2.76 eV, which increased the absorption of solar light. As a result, the Bi2S3@g-C3N4 achieved higher NO degradation (55%) compared to pure Bi2S3 (35%) and g-C3N4 (45%). The trapping test revealed that the electrons were the primary species responsible for most of the NO degradation. The photocatalyst was stable under repeated solar irradiation, maintaining degradation efficiencies of 50% after five consecutive recycling tests. The present work offers strong evidence that Bi2S3@g-C3N4 is a stable and efficient catalyst for the photocatalytic oxidation of NO over solar irradiation.
Nanocellulose-Based Nanocomposites for Sustainable Applications: A Review
Authors: Norizan Mohd Nurazzi , Shazleen Siti Shazra , Alias Aisyah Humaira , Sabaruddin Fatimah Atiyah , Asyraf Muhammad Rizal Muhammad , Zainudin Edi Syams , Abdullah Norli , Samsudin Mohd Saiful , Kamarudin Siti Hasnah , Norrrahim Mohd Nor Faiz
Published: October 2022

Nanocellulose has emerged in recent years as one of the most notable green materials available due to its numerous appealing factors, including its non-toxic nature, biodegradability, high aspect ratio, superior mechanical capabilities, remarkable optical properties, anisotropic shape, high mechanical strength, excellent biocompatibility and tailorable surface chemistry. It is proving to be a promising material in a range of applications pertinent to the material engineering to biomedical applications. In this review, recent advances in the preparation, modification, and emerging application of nanocellulose, especially cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), are described and discussed based on the analysis of the latest investigations. This review presents an overview of general concepts in nanocellulose-based nanocomposites for sustainable applications. Beginning with a brief introduction of cellulose, nanocellulose sources, structural characteristics and the extraction process for those new to the area, we go on to more in-depth content. Following that, the research on techniques used to modify the surface properties of nanocellulose by functionalizing surface hydroxyl groups to impart desirable hydrophilic–hydrophobic balance, as well as their characteristics and functionalization strategies, were explained. The usage of nanocellulose in nanocomposites in versatile fields, as well as novel and foreseen markets of nanocellulose products, are also discussed. Finally, the difficulties, challenges and prospects of materials based on nanocellulose are then discussed in the last section for readers searching for future high-end eco-friendly functional materials.
Synthesis of Silver, Gold, and Platinum Doped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles by Pulsed Laser Ablation in Water
Authors: Radičić Rafaela , Maletić Dejan , Blažeka Damjan , Car Julio , Krstulović Nikša
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we propose a simple two-step method for the synthesis of Ag, Au, and Pt-doped ZnO nanoparticles. The method is based on the fabrication of targets using the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique where thin layers of metals (Ag, Pt, Au) have been deposited on a metal-oxide bulk substrate (ZnO). Such formed structures were used as a target for the production of doped nanoparticles (ZnO: Ag, ZnO: Au, and ZnO: Pt) by laser ablation in water. The influence of Ag, Au, and Pt doping on the optical properties, structure and composition, sizing, and morphology was studied using UV-Visible (UV-Vis) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopies, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), respectively. The band-gap energy decreased to 3.06, 3.08, and 3.15 for silver, gold, and platinum-doped ZnO compared to the pure ZnO (3.2 eV). PL spectra showed a decrease in the recombination rate of the electrons and holes in the case of doped ZnO. SEM, TEM, and AFM images showed spherical-shaped nanoparticles with a relatively smooth surface. The XRD patterns confirm that Ag, Au, and Pt were well incorporated inside the ZnO lattice and maintained a hexagonal wurtzite structure. This work could provide a new way for synthesizing various doped materials.
Nanostructured AlGaAsSb Materials for Thermophotovoltaic Solar Cells Applications
Authors: Bensenouci Djamel , Merabet Boualem , Ozkendir Osman M. , Maleque Md A.
Published: October 2022

Thermophotovoltaic conversion using heat to generate electricity in photovoltaic cells based on the detraction of thermal radiation suffers from many engineering challenges. The focus of this paper is to study the nanostructure of AlGaAsSb for thermophotovoltaic energy conversion using lattice-matched heterostructures of GaSb-based materials in order to overcome the current challenges. The XAFS spectroscopy technique was used to analyze electronic structures and optical properties of GaSb, (Al, In) GaSbAs. The XAFS spectroscopy analysis showed a powerful decay at peak intensity that reveals to be related to a loss in Sb amount and light As atoms replaced in Sb atoms by 25%. Moreover, it was found that Al/In doped samples have highly symmetric data features (same atomic species substitution). The narrow direct bandgap energy, Eg of Al0.125Ga0.875Sb0.75As0.25 material raised (0.4–0.6 eV) compared to conventional photovoltaic cell bandgap energy (which is generally less than 0.4 eV) with weak absorption coefficients. The thermoelectric properties of AlGaAsSb computed via Botlztrap code showed that the electrons made up the majority of the charge carriers in AlGaAsSb. This nanostructure material exhibited a higher and acceptable figure of merit and demonstrated a promising thermoelectric material for solar thermophotovoltaic applications.
Chemical Ordering induced Strengthening in Lightweight Mg Alloys
Authors: Duan Yunnuo , Gao Qianfeng , Zhang Zijian , Zhou Jiali , Li Yuze , Kou Zongde , Lan Si , Tang Song
Published: October 2022

The influence of structure and composition on precipitation phenomena in Al-bearing BCC/HCP Mg alloys are studied via diffusion couple technique. Interdiffusion induced by the resultant composition gradient results in a change in crystal structure from HCP to BCC in the diffusion zone. The Vickers hardness in the diffusion zone is much higher than that in the Mg–5.5at.%Al and Mg–38at.%Li, which is attributed to the chemical ordering by nano-sized secondary ordered D03–Mg3Al precipitation in the BCC Mg–Li–Al diffusion zone. The reasons for different precipitation in Al-bearing Mg alloys with various matrices are discussed. Generating ordered precipitates can be an effective approach to improve both strength and ductility in HCP Mg alloys.
Efficient Quasi-2D Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes Enabled by Regulating Phase Distribution with a Fluorinated Organic Cation
Authors: Ye Ziqing , Xia Junmin , Zhang Dengliang , Duan Xingxing , Xing Zhaohui , Jin Guangrong , Cai Yongqing , Xing Guichuan , Chen Jiangshan , Ma Dongge
Published: October 2022

Metal halide perovskites have become a research highlight in the optoelectronic field due to their excellent properties. The perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have achieved great improvement in performance in recent years, and the construction of quasi-2D perovskites by incorporating large-size organic cations is an effective strategy for fabricating efficient PeLEDs. Here, we incorporate the fluorine meta-substituted phenethylammonium bromide (m-FPEABr) into CsPbBr3 to prepare quasi-2D perovskite films for efficient PeLEDs, and study the effect of fluorine substitution on regulating the crystallization kinetics and phase distribution of the quasi-2D perovskites. It is found that m-FPEABr allows the transformation of low-n phases to high-n phases during the annealing process, leading to the suppression of n = 1 phase and increasing higher-n phases with improved crystallinity. The rational phase distribution results in the formation of multiple quantum wells (MQWs) in the m-FPEABr based films. The carrier dynamics study reveals that the resultant MQWs enable rapid energy funneling from low-n phases to emission centers. As a result, the green PeLEDs achieve a peak external quantum efficiency of 16.66% at the luminance of 1279 cd m−2. Our study demonstrates that the fluorinated organic cations would provide a facile and effective approach to developing high-performance PeLEDs.
In-Plane Strain Tuned Electronic and Optical Properties in Germanene-MoSSe Heterostructures
Authors: Pang Qing , Xin Hong , Chai Ruipeng , Gao Dangli , Zhao Jin , Xie You , Song Yuling
Published: October 2022

DFT calculations are performed to investigate the electronic and optical absorption properties of two-dimensional heterostructures constructed by Janus MoSSe and germanene. It is found that a tiny gap can be opened up at the Dirac point in both Ge/SMoSe and Ge/SeMoS heterostructures, with intrinsic high-speed carrier mobility of the germanene layer being well preserved. An n-type Schottky contact is formed in Ge/SMoSe, while a p-type one is formed in Ge/SeMoS. Compared to corresponding individual layers, germanene-MoSSe heterostructures can exhibit extended optical absorption ability, ranging from ultraviolet to infrared light regions. The position of the Dirac cone, the Dirac gap value as well as the position of the optical absorption peak for both Ge/SMoSe and Ge/SeMoS heterostructures can be tuned by in-plane biaxial strains. It is also predicted that a Schottky–Ohmic transition can occur when suitable in-plane strain is imposed (especially tensile strain) on heterostructures. These results can provide a helpful guide for designing future nanoscale optoelectronic devices based on germanene-MoSSe vdW heterostructures.
Gain-Assisted Giant Third-Order Nonlinearity of Epsilon-Near-Zero Multilayered Metamaterials
Authors: Shi Wenjuan , Liu Hongjun , Wang Zhaolu
Published: October 2022

We investigate the third-order nonlinear optical properties of epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) Au/dye-doped fused silica multilayered metamaterials in the visible spectral range for TM incident by using nonlocal effective medium theory at different incidence angles. The nonlocal response affects the permittivity of anisotropic metamaterials when the thickness of the layer cannot be much smaller than the incident wavelength. By doping pump dye gain material within the dielectric layer to compensate for the metal loss, the imaginary part of the effective permittivity is reduced to 10−4, and the optical nonlinear refractive index and nonlinear absorption coefficient are enhanced. The real and imaginary parts of the permittivity are simultaneously minimized when the central emission wavelength of the gain material is close to the ENZ wavelength, and the nonlinear refraction coefficient reaches the order of 10−5 cm2/W, which is five orders of magnitude larger than that of the nonlinear response of the metamaterial without the gain medium. Our results demonstrate that a smaller imaginary part of the permittivity can be obtained by doping gain materials within the dielectric layer; it offers the promise of designing metamaterials with large nonlinearity at arbitrary wavelengths.
Negatively Charged Composite Nanofibrous Hydrogel Membranes for High-Performance Protein Adsorption
Authors: Fu Qiuxia , Xie Dandan , Ge Jianlong , Zhang Wei , Shan Haoru
Published: October 2022

Nanofibrous materials are considered as promising candidates for fabricating high-efficiency chromatography media, which are urgently needed in protein pharmaceuticals purification and biological research, yet still face several bottlenecks. Herein, novel negatively charged composite nanofibrous hydrogel membranes (NHMs) are obtained by a facile combination of electrospinning and surface coating modification. The resulting NHMs exhibit controllable morphologies and chemical structures. Benefitting from the combined effect of the stable framework of silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanofiber and the function layer of negatively charged hydrogel, as well as good pore connectivity among nanofibers, NHMs exhibit a high protein adsorption capacity of around 1000 mg g−1, and are superior to the commercial cellulose fibrous adsorbent (Sartobind®) and the reported nanofibrous membranous adsorbents. Moreover, due to their relatively stable physicochemical and mechanical properties, NHMs possess comprehensive adsorption performance, favorable resistance to acid and solvents, good selectivity, and excellent regenerability. The designed NHMs composite adsorbents are expected to supply a new protein chromatography platform for effective protein purification in biopharmaceuticals and biochemical reagents.
Evolution of Thin-Film Wrinkle Patterns on a Soft Substrate: Direct Simulations and the Effects of the Deformation History
Authors: Nikravesh Siavash , Shen Yu-Lin
Published: October 2022

Surface wrinkling instability in thin films attached to a compliant substrate is a well-recognized form of deformation under mechanical loading. The influence of the loading history on the formation of instability patterns has not been studied. In this work, the effects of the deformation history involving different loading sequences were investigated via comprehensive large-scale finite element simulations. We employed a recently developed embedded imperfection technique which is capable of direct numerical predictions of the surface instability patterns and eliminates the need for re-defining the imperfection after each analysis step. Attention was devoted to both uniaxial compression and biaxial compression. We show that, after the formation of wrinkles, the surface patterns could still be eliminated upon complete unloading of the elastic film–substrate structure. The loading path, however, played an important role in the temporal development of wrinkle configurations. With the same final biaxial state, different deformation histories could lead to different surface patterns. The finding brings about possibilities for creating variants of wrinkle morphologies controlled by the actual deformation path. This study also offers a mechanistic rationale for prior experimental observations.
Ultracompact Polarization Splitter–Rotator Based on Shallowly Etched Subwavelength Gratings and Anisotropic Metasurfaces
Authors: Dong Chengkun , Dai Sijie , Xia Jun , Tong Guodong , Wu Zhihai , Zhang Hao , Du Bintao
Published: October 2022

Polarization splitter–rotators (PSRs) are an essential component in on-chip polarization-sensitive and polarization–division multiplexing systems. In this work, we propose an ultracompact and high-performance silicon-based polarization splitter–rotator utilizing anisotropic metasurfaces, which is the first to combine the two, to our knowledge. The tilted periodic metasurface structure has different modulation effects on different polarized light fields, such as the transverse–electric (TE) mode and the transverse–magnetic (TM) mode, which are beneficial for designing polarization management devices. According to the results, the entire length of the silicon PSR was ~13.5 μm. The TE-to-TM conversion loss and polarization conversion ratio ere −0.154 dB and 96.5% at 1.55 μm, respectively. In the meanwhile, the cross talk and reflection loss were −27.0 dB and −37.3 dB, when the fundamental TE mode was input. The insertion loss and cross talk were −0.19 dB and −25.01 dB at the central wavelength when the fundamental TM mode was input. In addition, the bandwidth reached up to ~112 nm with polarization conversion loss and insertion loss higher than −0.46 dB and −0.36 dB. The simulations also show that the designed devices had good fabrication tolerance.
Pseudocapacitive Effects of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes-Functionalised Spinel Copper Manganese Oxide
Authors: Nolly Christopher , Ikpo Chinwe O. , Ndipingwi Miranda M. , Ekwere Precious , Iwuoha Emmanuel I.
Published: October 2022

Spinel copper manganese oxide nanoparticles combined with acid-treated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CuMn2O4/MWCNTs) were used in the development of electrodes for pseudocapacitor applications. The CuMn2O4/MWCNTs preparation involved initial synthesis of Mn3O4 and CuMn2O4 precursors followed by an energy efficient reflux growth method for the CuMn2O4/MWCNTs. The CuMn2O4/MWCNTs in a three-electrode cell assembly and in 3 M LiOH aqueous electrolyte exhibited a specific capacitance of 1652.91 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 current load. Similar investigation in 3 M KOH aqueous electrolyte delivered a specific capacitance of 653.41 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 current load. Stability studies showed that after 6000 cycles, the CuMn2O4/MWCNTs electrode exhibited a higher capacitance retention (88%) in LiOH than in KOH (64%). The higher capacitance retention and cycling stability with a Coulombic efficiency of 99.6% observed in the LiOH is an indication of a better charge storage behaviour in this electrolyte than in the KOH electrolyte with a Coulombic efficiency of 97.3%. This superior performance in the LiOH electrolyte than in the KOH electrolyte is attributed to an intercalation/de-intercalation mechanism which occurs more easily in the LiOH electrolyte than in the KOH electrolyte.
Ultra-Broadband, Omnidirectional, High-Efficiency Metamaterial Absorber for Capturing Solar Energy
Authors: Wu Jing-Hao , Meng Yan-Long , Li Yang , Li Yi , Li Yan-Song , Pan Gui-Ming , Kang Juan , Zhan Chun-Lian , Gao Han , Hu Bo , Jin Shang-Zhong
Published: October 2022

In this study, we investigated an absorber based on a center-aligned tandem nanopillar array for ultra-broadband solar energy harvesting theoretically. A high-efficiency, omnidirectional absorber was obtained by introducing the center-aligned tandem nanopillar array embedded in an Al2O3 dielectric layer. The multi-coupling modes at different wavelengths were interpreted. The strong absorption can be adjusted by changing the radii and heights of nanopillars. According to the simulation results, the average absorptance of the absorber exceeded 94% in the wavelength range from 300 nm to 2000 nm. In addition, the high-efficiency absorption was insensitive to the incident angle and polarization state. The research not only proposed an absorber which possesses a huge potential value for application areas, such as thermal photovoltaic systems, infrared detection, and isotropic absorption sensors, but also pointed out a new way to design an absorber with high efficiency in an ultrabroad wavelength range.
Anti-EGFR Targeted Multifunctional I-131 Radio-Nanotherapeutic for Treating Osteosarcoma: In Vitro 3D Tumor Spheroid Model
Authors: Marshall Suphalak Khamruang , Saelim Boonyisa , Taweesap Maneerat , Pachana Verachai , Panrak Yada , Makchuchit Naritsara , Jaroenpakdee Passara
Published: October 2022

The systemic delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) to treat osteosarcoma requires an adequate drug concentration to be effective, but in doing so, it raises the risk of increasing organ off-target toxicity and developing drug resistance. Herein, this study reveals a multiple therapeutic nanocarrier delivery platform that overcomes off-target toxicity by providing good specificity and imparting enhanced tumor penetration in a three-dimensional (3D) human MG-63 spheroid model. By synthesizing PEG-PLGA nanoparticles by the double emulsion method, encapsulating DOX and Na131I in the inner core, and conjugating with an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody, it is intended to specifically target human MG-63 cells. The nanocarrier is biocompatible with blood and has good stability characteristics. Na131I encapsulation efficiency was >96%, and radiochemical purity was >96% over 96 h. A DOX encapsulation efficacy of ~80% was achieved, with a drug loading efficiency of ~3%, and a sustained DOX release over 5 days. The nanocarrier EGFR antibody achieved a ~80-fold greater targeting efficacy to MG-63 cells (EGFR+) than fibroblast cells (EGFR−). The targeted multiple therapeutic DIE-NPs have a higher penetration and uptake of Na131I to the 3D model and a ~3-fold higher cytotoxicity than the DOX monotherapy (D-NPs). The co-administration of DOX and Na131I (DIE-NPs) disrupts DNA repair and generates free radicals resulting in DNA damage, triggering the activation of apoptosis pathways. This leads to inhibition of MG-63 cell proliferation and promotes cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase. Furthermore, the PEGylated anti-EGFR functionalized DIE-NPs were found to be biocompatible with red blood cells and to have no adverse effects. This anti-EGFR targeted multifunctional I-131 radio-nanotherapeutic signifies a customizable specific targeted treatment for osteosarcoma.
Subwavelength Quasi-Periodic Array for Infrared Antireflection
Authors: Wang Haoran , Zhang Fan , Duan Ji’an
Published: October 2022

Infrared antireflection of a zinc sulfide (ZnS) surface is important to improve performance of infrared detector systems. In this paper, double-pulse femtosecond laser micro-machining is proposed to fabricate a subwavelength quasi-periodic array (SQA) on ZnS substrate for infrared antireflection. The SQA consisting of approximately 30 million holes within a 2 × 2 cm2 area is uniformly formed in a short time. The double-pulse beam can effectively suppress the surface plasma shielding effect, resulting in obtaining a larger array depth. Further, the SQA depth is tunable by changing pulse energy and pulse delay, and can be used to readily regulate the infrared transmittance spectra as well as hydrophobicity. Additionally, the optical field intensity distributions of the SQA simulated by the rigorous coupled-wave analysis method indicate the modulation effect by the array depth. Finally, the infrared imaging quality captured through an infrared window embedded SQA is evaluated by a self-built infrared detection system.
Advances in Topological Materials: Fundamentals, Challenges and Outlook
Authors: Łepkowski Sławomir P.
Published: October 2022

The discovery of topological insulators, characterized by an energy gap in bulk electronic band structures and metallic states on boundaries, has greatly inspired studies on the topological properties of the electronic band structures of crystalline materials [...]
Design of a Capacitorless DRAM Based on a Polycrystalline-Silicon Dual-Gate MOSFET with a Fin-Shaped Structure
Authors: An Hee Dae , Lee Sang Ho , Park Jin , Min So Ra , Kim Geon Uk , Yoon Young Jun , Seo Jae Hwa , Cho Min Su , Jang Jaewon , Bae Jin-Hyuk , Lee Sin-Hyung , Kang In Man
Published: October 2022

In this study, a capacitorless one-transistor dynamic random-access memory (1T-DRAM) cell based on a polycrystalline silicon dual-gate metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor with a fin-shaped structure was optimized and analyzed using technology computer-aided design simulation. The proposed 1T-DRAM demonstrated improved memory characteristics owing to the adoption of the fin-shaped structure on the side of gate 2. This was because the holes generated during the program operation were collected on the side of gate 2, allowing an expansion of the area where the holes were stored using the fin-shaped structure. Therefore, compared with other previously reported 1T-DRAM structures, the fin-shaped structure has a relatively high retention time due to the increased hole storage area. The proposed 1T-DRAM cell exhibited a sensing margin of 2.51 μA/μm and retention time of 598 ms at T = 358 K. The proposed 1T-DRAM has high retention time and chip density, so there is a possibility that it will replace DRAM installed in various applications such as PCs, mobile phones, and servers in the future.
Novel Magnetically Driven Superhydrophobic Sponges Coated with Asphaltene/Kaolin Nanoparticles for Effective Oil Spill Cleanup
Authors: Chen Qiang , Zhang Lingling , Shan Yuanhang , Liu Yindong , Zhao Dongfeng
Published: October 2022

Fast and effective cleanup of oil spills remains a global challenge. A modified commercial sponge with superhydrophobicity, strong absorption capacity, outstanding magnetic response, and fire resistance were fabricated by a facile and inexpensive route of dip-coated melamine sponge carbonization. The low-cost petroleum asphaltene and kaolin nanoparticles were used as the dip-coating reagent. High absorption capacity of the fabricated sponges allowed rapid and continuous removal of oil contaminants. Taking advantage of the good refractory property, the sponges can be used in burning conditions and directly reused after burning out of the absorbed oil. Reusability tests showed that the modified sponges still maintained high absorption capacity (>85%) after six regeneration and reuse cycles. These characteristics make the fabricated sponge a promising aid to promote effective in situ burning cleanup of oil spills, contributing as a magnetic oil collector and a fire-resistant flexible boom. An example usage scenario of the sponges applied to in situ burning cleanup of oil spills is described.
Recent Progress and Perspective: Na Ion Batteries Used at Low Temperatures
Authors: Li Peiyuan , Hu Naiqi , Wang Jiayao , Wang Shuchan , Deng Wenwen
Published: October 2022

With the rapid development of electric power, lithium materials, as a rare metal material, will be used up in 50 years. Sodium, in the same main group as lithium in the periodic table, is abundant in earth’s surface. However, in the study of sodium-ion batteries, there are still problems with their low-temperature performance. Its influencing factors mainly include three parts: cathode material, anode material, and electrolyte. In the cathode, there are Prussian blue and Prussian blue analogues, layered oxides, and polyanionic-type cathodes in four parts, as this paper discusses. However, in the anode, there is hard carbon, amorphous selenium, metal selenides, and the NaTi2(PO4)3 anode. Then, we divide the electrolyte into four parts: organic electrolytes; ionic liquid electrolytes; aqueous electrolytes; and solid-state electrolytes. Here, we aim to find electrode materials with a high specific capacity of charge and discharge at lower temperatures. Meanwhile, high-electrical-potential cathode materials and low-potential anode materials are also found. Furthermore, their stability in air and performance degradation in full cells and half-cells are analyzed. As for the electrolyte, despite the aspects mentioned above, its electrical conductivity in low temperatures is also reported.
Reply to Vorland et al. Mixed Random and Nonrandom Allocation, and Group Randomization Have Been Mislabeled and Misanalysed, Necessitating Reanalysis. Comment on “Conner et al. KiwiC for Vitality: Results of a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial Testing the Effects of Kiwifruit or Vitamin C Tablets on Vitality in Adults with Low Vitamin C Levels. Nutrients 2020, 12, 2898”
Authors: Conner Tamlin S. , Fletcher Benjamin D. , Haszard Jillian J. , Pullar Juliet M. , Spencer Emma , Mainvil Louise A. , Vissers Margreet C. M.
Published: October 2022

We have read the Comment article by Vorland et al. [...]
Reported Prevalence and Nutritional Management of Functional Constipation among Young Children from Healthcare Professionals in Eight Countries across Asia, Europe and Latin America
Authors: West Louise Naz , Zakharova Irina , Huysentruyt Koen , Chong Sze-Yee , Aw Marion M. , Darma Andy , Hegar Badriul , Ng Ruey Terng , Hasosah Mohammed , Toro-Monjaraz Erick , Cetinkaya Merih , Chow Chung-Mo , Muhardi Leilani , Kudla Urszula , Delsing Dianne J. M. , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: October 2022

Background: The prevalence of functional constipation (FC) among children varies widely. A survey among healthcare professionals (HCPs) was conducted to better understand the HCP-reported prevalence and (nutritional) management of FC in children 12–36 months old. Methods: An anonymous e-survey using SurveyMonkey was disseminated via emails or WhatsApp among HCPs in eight countries/regions. Results: Data from 2199 respondents were analyzed. The majority of the respondents (65.9%) were from Russia, followed by other countries (Indonesia (11.0%), Malaysia (6.0%)), Mexico, KSA (5.1% (5.7%), Turkey (3.0%), Hong Kong (2.2%), Singapore (1.1%)). In total, 80% of the respondents (n = 1759) were pediatricians. The prevalence of FC in toddlers was reported at less than 5% by 43% of the respondents. Overall, 40% of the respondents reported using ROME IV criteria in > 70% of the cases to diagnose FC, while 11% never uses Rome IV. History of painful defecation and defecations < 2 x/week are the two most important criteria for diagnosing FC. In total, 33% of the respondents reported changing the standard formula to a specific nutritional solution, accompanied by parental reassurance. Conclusion: The most reported prevalence of FC in toddlers in this survey was less than five percent. ROME IV criteria are frequently used for establishing the diagnosis. Nutritional management is preferred over pharmacological treatment in managing FC.
Low Dietary Diversity for Recommended Food Groups Increases the Risk of Obesity among Children: Evidence from a Chinese Longitudinal Study
Authors: Xu Haiquan , Du Songming , Liu Ailing , Zhang Qian , Ma Guansheng
Published: October 2022

The association between dietary diversity and childhood obesity remains unclear; therefore, this longitudinal study was conducted to analyze the effect of dietary diversity on childhood obesity. One year after the first investigation, a follow-up was completed in 2010. A total of 4538 participants were included for analysis. Dietary diversity scores were calculated based on the consumption of nine recommended food groups which were categorized in accordance with the 2013 United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization guidelines. After a one-year follow-up, the low-score group underwent a significantly more considerable change in weight, body mass index, and body fat percentage than the high-score group (4.62 vs. 4.06 kg, 0.76 vs. 0.51 kg/m2, and 1.99% vs. 1.13%, respectively). Furthermore, in the low-score group, the odds ratios for overweight, obese, and overweight and obese were 1.76 (95% CI: 1.17, 2.65), 0.99 (95% CI: 0.67, 1.46), and 1.35 (95% CI: 1.01, 1.81), and the relative risks were 1.81 (95% CI: 1.03, 3.19), 2.31 (95% CI: 0.81, 6.59), and 1.98 (95% CI: 1.20,3.28), respectively. Low dietary diversity for the recommended food groups was associated with a high weight, high body mass index, and high body fat, which was associated with an increased risk of being overweight or obese in Chinese children.
Positive Effect of a Pea–Clam Two-Peptide Composite on Hypertension and Organ Protection in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Sun Xiaopeng , Wang Min , Xu Chuanjin , Wang Shanglong , Li Li , Zou Shengcan , Yu Jia , Wei Yuxi
Published: October 2022

In the present study, we prepared pea peptides with high angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity in vitro using an enzymatic hydrolysis of pea protein and compounded them with clam peptides to obtain a pea-clam double peptide. The effects of the two-peptide composite and pea peptides on hypertension and the damage-repair of corresponding organs were studied in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). We found that both pea peptides and the two-peptide composite significantly reduced the blood pressure upon a single or long-term intragastric administration, with the two-peptide composite being more effective. Mechanistically, we found that the two-peptide composite could regulate the renal renin-angiotensin system (RAS), rebalance gut microbial dysbiosis, decrease renal and myocardial fibrosis, and improve renal and cardiac function and vascular remodeling. Additionally, hippocampal lesions caused by hypertension were also eliminated after two-peptide composite administration. Our research provides a scientific basis for the use of this two-peptide composite as a safe antihypertension ingredient in functional foods.
Diet Quality of Adolescents and Adults Who Completed the Australian Healthy Eating Quiz: An Analysis of Data over Six Years (2016–2022)
Authors: Whatnall Megan , Clarke Erin D. , Adam Marc T. P. , Ashton Lee M. , Burrows Tracy , Hutchesson Melinda , Collins Clare E.
Published: October 2022

Diet quality is influenced by demographics and can change over time. This study aimed to (1) compare diet quality among adolescents/adults who completed the online Healthy Eating Quiz (HEQ) by demographic characteristics, and (2) to evaluate change in score over time for repeat completers. HEQ data collected between July 2016 and May 2022 were analysed, including demographics (age, gender, vegetarian status, socio-economic status, number of people main meals are shared with, country), and diet quality calculated using the Australian Recommended Food Score (ARFS) (range 0–73) for respondents aged ≥ 16 years. Differences in ARFS by demographic characteristics and change in score over time, adjusted for age, gender and vegetarian status, were tested by linear regression. The participants (n = 176,075) were predominantly female (70.4%), Australian (62.8%), and aged 18–24 years (27.7%), with 4.0% (n = 7087) repeat completers. Mean ± SD ARFS was 33.9 ± 9.4/73. Results indicate that ARFS was significantly lower among males and significantly higher with increasing age group, higher socio-economic status, in vegetarians, those who shared main meals with others, and those living in Australia (p-values < 0.001). Mean change in ARFS over time (2.3 ± 6.9) was significantly higher for those with lower baseline scores (p < 0.001). Publicly available, brief dietary assessment tools have the potential to improve diet quality at the population level.
Immunoceuticals: Harnessing Their Immunomodulatory Potential to Promote Health and Wellness
Authors: Tieu Sophie , Charchoglyan Armen , Wagter-Lesperance Lauri , Karimi Khalil , Bridle Byram W. , Karrow Niel A. , Mallard Bonnie A.
Published: October 2022

Knowledge that certain nutraceuticals can modulate the immune system is not new. These naturally occurring compounds are known as immunoceuticals, which is a novel term that refers to products and systems that naturally improve an individual’s immuno-competence. Examples of immunoceuticals include vitamin D3, mushroom glycans, flavonols, quercetin, omega-3 fatty acids, carotenoids, and micronutrients (e.g., zinc and selenium), to name a few. The immune system is a complex and highly intricate system comprising molecules, cells, tissues, and organs that are regulated by many different genetic and environmental factors. There are instances, such as pathological conditions, in which a normal immune response is suboptimal or inappropriate and thus augmentation or tuning of the immune response by immunoceuticals may be desired. With infectious diseases, cancers, autoimmune disorders, inflammatory conditions, and allergies on the rise in both humans and animals, the importance of the use of immunoceuticals to prevent, treat, or augment the treatment of these conditions is becoming more evident as a natural and often economical approach to support wellness. The global nutraceuticals market, which includes immunoceuticals, is a multi-billion-dollar industry, with a market size value of USD 454.55 billion in 2021, which is expected to reach USD 991.09 billion by 2030. This review will provide an overview of the immune system, the importance of immunomodulation, and defining and testing for immunocompetence, followed by a discussion of several key immunoceuticals with clinically proven and evidence-based immunomodulatory properties.
Trends in Food Group Intake According to Body Size among Young Japanese Women: The 2001–2019 National Health and Nutrition Survey
Authors: Matsumoto Mai , Tajima Ryoko , Fujiwara Aya , Yuan Xiaoyi , Okada Emiko , Takimoto Hidemi
Published: October 2022

Unlike in many industrialised countries, the high proportion of young women who are underweight in Japan has been a long-term problem. We evaluated trends in food group intake according to body size among young Japanese women using data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey 2001–2019. Overall, 13,771 Japanese women aged 20–39 years were included. A 1-day household-based dietary record was used to estimate food intake. Foods were classified into 34 groups based on the Standard Tables of Food Composition in Japan. The trend of food group intake was analysed using the Joinpoint Regression Program. The proportion of young women who were underweight was consistently around 20%, while obesity among young women increased between 2001 (10%) and 2019 (13%). A decreased trend in fish and shellfish and seaweed intake and an increased trend in meat and soft drink intake were observed among young women. Decreased trends in the intake of fruit and dairy products were observed in young women who were not obese. An increased trend in the intake of confectionaries was observed in young women who were obese. This study suggests that the types of unhealthy eating habits may differ according to body size among young Japanese women.
What Are the Effects of Vitamin A Oral Supplementation in the Prevention and Management of Viral Infections? A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Sinopoli Alessandra , Caminada Susanna , Isonne Claudia , Santoro Maria Mercedes , Baccolini Valentina
Published: October 2022

Vitamin A (VA) deficiency is associated with increased host susceptibility to infections, but evidence on its role in the prevention and management of viral infections is still lacking. This review aimed at summarizing the effects of VA supplementation against viral infections to support clinicians in evaluating supplemental treatments. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched. Randomized clinical trials comparing the direct effects of VA oral supplementation in any form vs. placebo or standard of care in the prevention and/or management of confirmed viral infections in people of any age were included. A narrative synthesis of the results was performed. The revised Cochrane Risk-Of-Bias tool was used to assess quality. Overall, 40 articles of heterogeneous quality were included. We found data on infections sustained by Retroviridae (n = 17), Caliciviradae (n = 2), Flaviviridae (n = 1), Papillomaviridae (n = 3), Pneumoviridae (n = 4), and Paramyxoviridae (n = 13). Studies were published between 1987 and 2017 and mostly conducted in Africa. The findings were heterogeneous across and within viral families regarding virological, immunological, and biological response, and no meaningful results were found in the prevention of viral infections. For a few diseases, VA-supplemented individuals had a better prognosis and improved outcomes, including clearance of HPV lesions or reduction in some measles-related complications. The effects of VA oral supplementation seem encouraging in relation to the management of a few viral infections. Difference in populations considered, variety in recruitment and treatment protocols might explain the heterogeneity of the results. Further investigations are needed to better identify the benefits of VA administration.
Screen Time and Its Association with Vegetables, Fruits, Snacks and Sugary Sweetened Beverages Intake among Chinese Preschool Children in Changsha, Hunan Province: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Huo Jiaqi , Kuang Xiaoni , Xi Yue , Xiang Caihong , Yong Cuiting , Liang Jiajing , Zou Hanshuang , Lin Qian
Published: October 2022

(1) Introduction: Screen time may influence preschoolers’ food consumption. However, there is limited evidence regarding preschoolers, especially in China. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the association between screen time and the consumption of vegetables, fruits, snacks, and sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs). (2) Methods: Participants (1567 caregivers) were recruited from six kindergartens in Hunan, China. Caregivers completed the questionnaire, which included the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and questions regarding their children’s daily screen time. (3) Results: The mean screen time of preschoolers was 1.36 ± 1.26 h, and the proportion of children who spent more than one hour on screens was 54.3% in the overall sample. Children with longer screen time consumed vegetables and fruits less frequently, while having a higher consumption of snacks and SSBs. After adjustment of sociodemographic confounders, children’s eating behaviors and parental feeding practices, the association of screen time with vegetables and SSBs still remained significant. (4) Conclusions: Screen time exposure needs to be monitored in preschool children, which was negatively associated with their consumption of vegetables and fruits, whereas it was positively associated with snacks and SSBs. Future research should focus more on the impact of screen time on children’s unhealthy behaviors and dietary patterns.
Prediction of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Third Trimester of Pregnancy Based on Data in the First Trimester: A Prospective Cohort Study in a High-Income Country
Authors: Resseguier Anne-Sophie , Guiguet-Auclair Candy , Debost-Legrand Anne , Serre-Sapin Anne-Françoise , Gerbaud Laurent , Vendittelli Françoise , Ruivard Marc
Published: October 2022

Background: Systematic iron supplementation may be harmful in pregnant women with non-depleted iron. Our objectives were to estimate the prevalence of anemia at the third trimester of pregnancy (T3) and to identify the parameters at the first trimester (T1), which best predict anemia at T3. Methods: This prospective cohort study in France included pregnant women at T1 without non-iron deficiency anemia. Clinical and social characteristics, health-related quality of life, blood count, and a frozen blood sample were collected at T1 and/or T3. Secondly, a matched nested case–control study was built for women with anemia at T3 but not at T1. Multivariate analyses and ROC curves were used to identify the best predictive parameter(s) of anemia at T3. Results: The prevalence of anemia at T3 in the cohort (629 women) was 21.9% (95% CI 18.7–25.2%). In the matched nested case–control study (256 women), hemoglobin (Hb), serum ferritin (SF) and the SF/soluble transferrin receptor ratio at T1 were predictive of anemia at T3 (p < 0.001); however, clinical and social characteristics, as serum hepcidin were not. In multivariate analyses, Hb at T1 was the best predictive biomarker of anemia at T3 with a cut-off value of 120 g/L (specificity 87.5%). Conclusions: The prevalence of anemia at the end of pregnancy remained high in a High-Income Country. Clinical, social, and biochemical parameters did not seem useful to predict anemia at T3 and could not guide iron supplementation. We suggest systematically performing a simple blood count in the first trimester of pregnancy and offering oral iron supplementation for women with Hb < 120 g/L.
The Prevalence of Hyperuricemia and Its Correlates among Adults in China: Results from CNHS 2015–2017
Authors: Piao Wei , Zhao Liyun , Yang Yuxiang , Fang Hongyun , Ju Lahong , Cai Shuya , Yu Dongmei
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of hyperuricemia (HUA) and associated risk factors in Chinese adults aged 18 to 59 years. All the data were collected from the China Nutrition and Health Surveillance during the period 2015–2017, which adopted a stratified, multistage, random sampling method on a national scale. A total of 52,627 participants aged 18 years or older were included in this study. The definition of hyperuricemia was 420 μmol/L for male and 360 μmol/L for female. The Rao–Scott chi-square test was used to compare the differences in prevalence between or among the subgroups. A weighted two-level multivariate survey-logistic regression was used to detect the correlations between HUA and demographic, physical, lifestyle and metabolic factors. The total prevalence of HUA was 15.1%, and that was higher in male, current smokers, higher BMI and less physical activities subgroups, and also in noninfectious chronic diseases (NCDs) subgroups. The subgroups of non-vegetarian diet, insufficient vegetable intakes and excessive red meat and alcohol intakes had significantly higher HUA prevalence. After introducing all the variables in the survey-logistic regression, gender, age, BMI, physically active, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, bean and nut intake, vegetable intake, red meat intake, alcohol consumption and vegetarian were associated with HUA. Among the significant variables, age and physical active served as a protective factor, and BMI showed to be a risk factor for HUA. Hypertension and dyslipidemia could increase the risk for HUA, while diabetes mellitus was shown a negative association with it. For dietary factors, vegetarian diet, sufficient beans and nuts and vegetables intake could lower the risk of HUA, but more alcohol could increase the risk of HUA. Dietary factor played a key role in HUA. It suggested that the intervention of dietary factor should receive more attention to ameliorate the high prevalence of HUA in China.
Duodenojejunal Omega Switch Surgery Reduces Oxidative Stress Induced by Cafeteria Diet in Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Poloczek Jakub , Kazura Wojciech , Chełmecka Elżbieta , Michalczyk Katarzyna , Jochem Jerzy , Gumprecht Janusz , Stygar Dominika
Published: October 2022

Over-nutrition with cafeteria diet leads to glycemic control failure and subsequent obesity. Bariatric surgery remains the ultimate treatment option, and when complemented with specific dietary protocol, it may mitigate the effects of oxidative stress induced by a cafeteria diet. The study measured antioxidant marker activity: superoxidase dismutase (SOD) and ceruloplasmin (CER), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and lipid peroxidation marker concentrations: lipofuscin (LS) and malondialdehyde (MDA), in the plasma of 56 Sprague-Dawley rats fed with a cafeteria (HFS) or a control (CD) diet and subjected to duodenojejunal omega switch (DJOS) or control (SHAM) surgery. The diet change after the surgery (CD/HFS or HFS/CD) strongly influenced SOD activity in DJOS- and SHAM-operated rats, but SOD activity was always higher in SHAM-operated rats. Every dietary protocol used in the study increased CER activity, except for the CD/CD combination. Cafeteria diet consumed before or after either of surgeries led to decrease in TAC levels. DJOS and no change in diet reduced MDA levels. DJOS reduced LS levels, but its beneficial effect was deteriorated by selected dietary protocols. The cafeteria diet negatively affected the positive impact of DJOS surgery, but SOD, CER, MDA, and LS were significantly lower in rats that underwent DJOS, suggesting that eight weeks of dietary treatment before and after the surgery did not totally dilapidate the effects of the bariatric treatment.