bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Design Techniques for the Fermat Spiral in Antenna Arrays, for Maximum SLL Reduction
Authors: Encino Kleiverg , Panduro Marco A. , Reyna Alberto , Covarrubias David H.
Published: November 2022

This paper presents novel design techniques for the Fermat spiral, considering a maximum side lobe level (SLL) reduction. The array system based on a Fermat spiral configuration considers techniques based on uniform and non-uniform amplitude excitation. The cases of uniform amplitude excitation are the golden angle and the optimization of the angular separations. The cases of non-uniform amplitude excitations consider a raised cosine distribution and the optimization of the amplitude excitations through the Fermat spiral array. In this study, the method of genetic algorithms (GA) was used in the cases to find the values of the angular separations and the amplitude excitations of the Fermat spiral array. A performance evaluation was conducted for all these design cases, considering the Fermat spiral geometry. These design cases were validated using electromagnetic simulation to take mutual coupling into account and consider the effect of the antenna element pattern in each proposed design case.
Effect of Punch Surface Microtexture on the Microextrudability of AA6063 Micro Backward Extrusion
Authors: Funazuka Tatsuya , Dohda Kuniaki , Shiratori Tomomi , Horiuchi Syunsuke , Watanabe Ikumu
Published: November 2022

To apply conventional forming processes to microscale processing, the influence of size effects caused by material properties and friction effects must be considered. Herein, the effects of tool surface properties, such as punch surface texture, on microextrusion properties, such as extrusion force, product shape, and product microstructure, were investigated using AA6063 billets as test pieces. Millimeter-scale, microscale, and nanoscale textures were fabricated on the punch surfaces. Punch texturing was conducted by electrical discharge machining or polishing or using a laser process. The extrusion force increased rapidly as the stroke progressed for all punch textures. Comparing the product shapes, the smaller the texture size, the lower the adhesion and the longer the backward extrusion length. The results of material analysis using electron backscatter diffraction show that material flowability is improved, and more strain is uniformly applied when a nanoscale-textured punch is used. By contrast, when a mirror punch was used, material flowability decreased, and strain was applied non-uniformly. Therefore, by changing the surface properties of the punch, the tribology between the tool and material can be controlled, and formability can be improved.
Contribution to the Improvement of the Correlation Filter Method for Modal Analysis with a Spatial Light Modulator
Authors: Benedicto David , Collados María Victoria , Martín Juan C. , Atencia Jesús , Mendoza-Yero Omel , Vallés Juan A.
Published: November 2022

Modal decomposition of light is essential to study its propagation properties in waveguides and photonic devices. Modal analysis can be carried out by implementing a computer-generated hologram acting as a match filter in a spatial light modulator. In this work, a series of aspects to be taken into account in order to get the most out of this method are presented, aiming to provide useful operational procedures. First of all, a method for filter size adjustment based on the standard fiber LP-mode symmetry is presented. The influence of the mode normalization in the complex amplitude encoding-inherent noise is then investigated. Finally, a robust method to measure the phase difference between modes is proposed. These procedures are tested by wavefront reconstruction in a conventional few-mode fiber.
A Novel Monopolar Cross-Scale Nanopositioning Stage Based on Dual Piezoelectric Stick-Slip Driving Principle
Authors: Zhu Junhui , Meng Siyuan , Wang Yong , Pang Ming , Hu Zhiping , Ru Changhai
Published: November 2022

The precise characterization and measurement of new nanomaterials and nano devices require in situ SEM nanorobotic instrumentation systems, which put forward further technical requirements on nanopositioning techniques of compact structure, cross-scale, nanometer accuracy, high vacuum and non-magnetic environment compatibility, etc. In this work, a novel cross-scale nanopositioning stage was proposed, which combined the advantages of piezoelectric stick-slip positioner and piezoelectric scanner techniques and adopted the idea of macro/micro positioning. A new structure design of a single flexible hinge shared by a small and large PZT was proposed to effectively reduce the size of the positioning stage and achieve millimeter stroke and nanometer motion positioning accuracy. Then, the cross-scale motion generation mechanism of the dual piezoelectric stick-slip drive was studied, the system-level dynamics model of the proposed positioning stages was constructed, and the mechanism design was optimized. Further, a prototype was manufactured and a series of experiments were carried out to test the performance of the stage. The results show that the proposed positioning stage has a maximum motion range of 20 mm and minimum step length of 70 nm under the small piezoceramic ceramic macro-motion stepping mode, and a maximum scanning range of 4.9 μm and motion resolution of 16 nm under the large piezoceramic ceramic micro-motion scanning mode. Moreover, the proposed stage has a compact structure size of 30 × 17 × 8 mm3, with a maximum motion speed of 10 mm/s and maximum load of 2 kg. The experimental results confirm the feasibility of the proposed stage, and nanometer positioning resolution, high accuracy, high speed, and a large travel range were achieved, which demonstrates that the proposed stage has significant performance and potential for many in situ SEM nanorobotic instrument systems.
A Study of Nano-Tungsten Colloid Preparing by the Electrical Spark Discharge Method
Authors: Chang Chaur-Yang , Tseng Kuo-Hsiung , Chang Jui-Tsun , Chung Meng-Yun , Lin Zih-Yuan
Published: November 2022

This study developed an energy-enhanced (ee)-micro-electric discharge machining (EDM) system for preparing nano-tungsten (nano-W) colloids. This system enables spark discharge using tungsten wires immersed in deionized water, to produce nano-W colloids. Compared with the chemical preparation method, the processing environment for preparing colloids in this study prevented nanoparticle escape. Among the nano-W colloids prepared using the ee-micro-EDM system and an industrial EDM system, the colloid prepared by the ee-micro-EDM system exhibited a more favorable absorbance, suspensibility, and particle size. The colloid prepared by the ee-micro-EDM system with a pulse on time and off time of 10–10 μs had an absorbance of 0.277 at a wavelength of 315 nm, ζ potential of −64.9 mV, and an average particle size of 164.9 nm. Transmission electron microscope imaging revealed a minimum particle size of approximately 11 nm, and the X-ray diffractometer spectrum verified that the colloid contained only W2.00 and W nanoparticles. Relative to industrial EDM applications for nano-W colloid preparation, the ee-micro-EDM system boasts a lower cost and smaller size, and produces nano-W colloids with superior performance. These advantages contribute to the competitiveness of the electrical spark discharge method in the preparation of high-quality nano-W colloids.
CuO Nanowires Fabricated by Thermal Oxidation of Cu Foils towards Electrochemical Detection of Glucose
Authors: Cao Xun
Published: November 2022

In view of the various stability issues and high cost of enzymatic glucose biosensors, non-enzymatic biosensors have received great attention in recent research and development. Copper oxide (CuO) nanowires (NWs) were fabricated on Cu foil substrate using a simple thermal oxidation method. The phase and morphology of the CuO NWs could be controlled by synthesis temperature. Variation in oxidation states enables CuO NWs to form Cu (III) species, which is crucial in catalysing the eletro-oxidation of glucose. The Cu-based metal/oxide composite electrode works as a non-enzymatic biosensor that adapts to the fast, dynamic change in glucose concentration, with a low saturation concentration (~0.7 mM) and a lower detection limit of 0.1 mM, making CuO NWs an excellent sensor towards impaired fasting glucose. The simplicity, cost-effectiveness and non-toxicity features of this study might make a way for potentially scalable application in glucose biosensing.
Clostridioides Difficile Infection before and during Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic—Similarities and Differences
Authors: Kovačević Nadica , Petrić Vedrana , Pete Maria , Popović Milica , Plećaš-Đurić Aleksandra , Pejaković Slađana , Tomić Slavica , Damjanov Dimitrije , Kosijer Dijana , Lekin Milica
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the differences of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-COVID-19 era. CDI patients treated at the Clinic for Infectious Diseases, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Serbia during 2017–2019 (n = 304) were compared with COVID-19/CDI patients treated in period September 2021–September 2022 (n = 387). Groups were compared by age, gender, comorbidities, previous medications, laboratory findings, and outcome within 30 days. In the CDI/COVID-19 group, we found: greater percentage of males 59.8% vs. 42.6% (p ≤ 0.001), older age 72.8 ± 9.4 vs. 65.6 ± 11.7 (p ≤ 0.001), higher Charlson comorbidity score (CCS) (3.06 ± 1.54 vs. 2.33 ± 1.34 (p ≤ 0.001), greater percentage of chronic renal failure (33.9% vs. 23.4% (p = 0.003), malignances (24.3% vs. 13.5% (p ≤ 0.001), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (22.7% vs. 15.5% (p = 0.017), higher usage of macrolide (38.5% vs. 8.6% (p ≤ 0.001), greater percentage of patients with hypoalbuminemia ≤25 g/L (19.6% vs. 12.2% (p ≤ 0.001), lower percentage of patients with elevated creatinine (≥200 mmol/L) (31.5% vs. 43.8%) (p = 0.002), and greater percentage of lethal outcome 29.5% vs. 6.6% (p ≤ 0.001). In the prediction of lethal outcome multivariate regression analysis extracted as an independent predictor, only higher CRP values in the non-COVID-19 group and in the COVID-19 group: older age (p ≤ 0.001), CCS (p = 0.019) and CRP (p = 0.015). COVID-19 changes the disease course of CDI and should be taken into consideration when managing those patients.
From Mouth to Muscle: Exploring the Potential Relationship between the Oral Microbiome and Cancer-Related Cachexia
Authors: Raman Shreya R. , Liu Christopher , Herremans Kelly M. , Riner Andrea N. , Vudatha Vignesh , Freudenberger Devon C. , McKinley Kelley L. , Triplett Eric W. , Trevino Jose G.
Published: November 2022

Cancer cachexia is a multifactorial wasting syndrome associated with skeletal muscle and adipose tissue loss, as well as decreased appetite. It affects approximately half of all cancer patients and leads to a decrease in treatment efficacy, quality of life, and survival. The human microbiota has been implicated in the onset and propagation of cancer cachexia. Dysbiosis, or the imbalance of the microbial communities, may lead to chronic systemic inflammation and contribute to the clinical phenotype of cachexia. Though the relationship between the gut microbiome, inflammation, and cachexia has been previously studied, the oral microbiome remains largely unexplored. As the initial point of digestion, the oral microbiome plays an important role in regulating systemic health. Oral dysbiosis leads to the upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and an imbalance in natural flora, which in turn may contribute to muscle wasting associated with cachexia. Reinstating this equilibrium with the use of prebiotics and probiotics has the potential to improve the quality of life for patients suffering from cancer-related cachexia.
Modulation of Virulence-Associated Traits in Aspergillus fumigatus by BET Inhibitor JQ1
Authors: Orekhova Anastasia , De Angelis Marta , Cacciotti Andrea , Reverberi Massimo , Rotili Dante , Giorgi Alessandra , Protto Virginia , Bonincontro Graziana , Fiorentino Francesco , Zgoda Victor , Mai Antonello , Palamara Anna Teresa , Simonetti Giovanna
Published: November 2022

Aspergillus fumigatus is a disease-causing, opportunistic fungus that can establish infection due to its capacity to respond to a wide range of environmental conditions. Secreted proteins and metabolites, which play a critical role in fungal–host interactions and pathogenesis, are modulated by epigenetic players, such as bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) proteins. In this study, we evaluated the in vitro and in vivo capability of the BET inhibitor JQ1 to modulate the extracellular proteins and virulence of A. fumigatus. The abundance of 25 of the 76 extracellular proteins identified through LC-MS/MS proteomic analysis changed following JQ1 treatment. Among them, a ribonuclease, a chitinase, and a superoxide dismutase were dramatically downregulated. Moreover, the proteomic analysis of A. fumigatus intracellular proteins indicated that Abr2, an intracellular laccase involved in the last step of melanin synthesis, was absent in the JQ1-treated group. To investigate at which level this downregulation occurred and considering the ability of JQ1 to modulate gene expression we checked the level of ABR2, Chitinase, and Superoxide dismutase mRNA expression by qRT-PCR. Finally, the capacity of JQ1 to reduce the virulence of A. fumigatus has been proved using Galleria mellonella larvae, which are an in vivo model to evaluate fungal virulence. Overall, the promising activity exhibited by JQ1 suggests that A. fumigatus is sensitive to BET inhibition and BET proteins may be a viable target for developing antifungal agents.
Adsorption of Hydrated Pr3+ and NH4+/Mg2+ Ions onto the (001) Surface of Montmorillonite: A DFT Analysis with Experimental Verification
Authors: Zou Zhiqiang , Huang Lijinhong , Li Xindong , Xu Jie , Zeng Xiangrong , Shu Ronghua , Xiao Bin , Ou Jiacai , Huang Wanfu
Published: November 2022

Montmorillonite is a major mineral present in ion-adsorption rare earth ores, and the microscopic adsorption states of rare earth ions on its surface are of a great significance for the efficient exploitation of ion-adsorption rare earth ores. In this article, density functional theory calculations were used to investigate the adsorption mechanisms and bonding characteristics of hydrated Pr, Mg and NH4 ions on the (001) surface of montmorillonite. Pr3+ exhibited a directed tendency geometry with Pr(H2O)103+, which was adsorbed onto montmorillonite by hydrogen bonding with an adsorption energy of −1182 kJ/mol, and one coordinated H2O ligand was separated from the first hydration layer of Pr. Both hydrated Mg and NH4 ions were adsorbed onto the montmorillonite surface through hydrogen bonds, and the adsorption energies were −206 and −188 kJ/mol, respectively, indicating that the adsorption stability of the hydrated Mg ion was slightly higher than that of the hydrated NH4 ion, but both were lower than that of hydrated Pr (−1182 kJ/mol). Hence, higher concentrations of Mg and NH4 ions than rare earth ions would be necessary in the leaching process of ion-adsorption rare earth ores. Additionally, desorption experiments revealed that the recovery of Pr3+ by Mg2+ with a concentration of 38 mmol/L is 80%, while it is only 65% with the same concentration of NH4+, and the concentrations of Mg2+ and NH4+ were much higher than that of Pr3+ in lixivium, which is consistent with the DFT calculations.
Preparation of Chitosan-Composite-Film-Supported Copper Nanoparticles and Their Application in 1,6-Hydroboration Reactions of p-Quinone Methides
Authors: Chen Shuhan , Wen Wei , Zhao Xue , Zhang Zelang , Li Weishuang , Zhang Yaoyao , Li Bojie , Zhu Lei
Published: November 2022

Here, we describe the preparation of copper nanoparticles that are stabilized on a chitosan composite film (CP@Cu). This material could catalyze the 1,6-hydroboration reactions of p-quinone methides with B2pin2 as a boron source under mild conditions. This reaction exhibited very good functional group compatibility, and the organoboron compounds that were formed could easily be converted into corresponding hydroxyl products with good to excellent yields. This newly developed methodology provides an efficient and sequential pathway for the synthesis of gem-disubstituted methanols.
Effects of Heat Treatments on Various Characteristics of Ready-to-Eat Zucchini Purees Enriched with Anise or Fennel
Authors: Tănase (Butnariu) Luiza-Andreea , Nistor Oana-Viorela , Mocanu Gabriel-Dănuț , Andronoiu Doina-Georgeta , Cîrciumaru Adrian , Botez Elisabeta
Published: November 2022

Galactagogue herbs, also known as natural lactation adjuvants, are frequently used to stimulate breast milk production. Due to their antioxidant activity and phenolic content, anise (Pimpinella anisum L.) and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare L.) were chosen to increase the added value of zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) purees. At the same time, this work aimed to determine the influence of heat treatment on various characteristics of the final product. The phytochemical content, color parameters, and rheological and textural parameters of zucchini purees enriched with herbal aqueous extracts were determined after processing and after one week of storage (4 °C). In the case of antioxidant activity, samples registered a variation between 6.62 ± 1.71 and 38.32 ± 3.85 µM Trolox/g DW for the samples processed by steam convection. The total difference color parameter (ΔE) increased seven times after one week of storage compared to samples at T0. Fennel and anise aqueous extracts helped improve the rheological behavior of zucchini samples both by steam and hot air convection. This study may serve as a springboard for future investigations and clinical trials into the scientific validity and safety of ready-to-eat foods with special destinations.
Structure-Activity Relationship Studies Based on 3D-QSAR CoMFA/CoMSIA for Thieno-Pyrimidine Derivatives as Triple Negative Breast Cancer Inhibitors
Authors: Kim Jin-Hee , Jeong Jin-Hyun
Published: November 2022

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is defined as a kind of breast cancer that lacks estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptors (HER2). This cancer accounts for 10–15% of all breast cancers and has the features of high invasiveness and metastatic potential. The treatment regimens are still lacking and need to develop novel inhibitors for therapeutic strategies. Three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) analyses, based on a series of forty-seven thieno-pyrimidine derivatives, were performed to identify the key structural features for the inhibitory biological activities. The established comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) presented a leave-one-out cross-validated correlation coefficient q2 of 0.818 and a determination coefficient r2 of 0.917. In comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA), a q2 of 0.801 and an r2 of 0.897 were exhibited. The predictive capability of these models was confirmed by using external validation and was further validated by the progressive scrambling stability test. From these results of validation, the models were determined to be statistically reliable and robust. This study could provide valuable information for further optimization and design of novel inhibitors against metastatic breast cancer.
Natural Polyphenol Recovery from Apple-, Cereal-, and Tomato-Processing By-Products and Related Health-Promoting Properties
Authors: Szabo Katalin , Mitrea Laura , Călinoiu Lavinia Florina , Teleky Bernadette-Emőke , Martău Gheorghe Adrian , Plamada Diana , Pascuta Mihaela Stefana , Nemeş Silvia-Amalia , Varvara Rodica-Anita , Vodnar Dan Cristian
Published: November 2022

Polyphenols of plant origin are a broad family of secondary metabolites that range from basic phenolic acids to more complex compounds such as stilbenes, flavonoids, and tannins, all of which have several phenol units in their structure. Considerable health benefits, such as having prebiotic potential and cardio-protective and weight control effects, have been linked to diets based on polyphenol-enriched foods and plant-based products, indicating the potential role of these substances in the prevention or treatment of numerous pathologies. The most representative phenolic compounds in apple pomace are phloridzin, chlorogenic acid, and epicatechin, with major health implications in diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular and neurocognitive diseases. The cereal byproducts are rich in flavonoids (cyanidin 3-glucoside) and phenolic acids (ferulic acid), all with significant results in reducing the incidence of noncommunicable diseases. Quercetin, naringenin, and rutin are the predominant phenolic molecules in tomato by-products, having important antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. The present understanding of the functionality of polyphenols in health outcomes, specifically, noncommunicable illnesses, is summarized in this review, focusing on the applicability of this evidence in three extensive agrifood industries (apple, cereal, and tomato processing). Moreover, the reintegration of by-products into the food chain via functional food products and personalized nutrition (e.g., 3D food printing) is detailed, supporting a novel direction to be explored within the circular economy concept.
A Review on the Synthesis and Chemical Transformation of Quinazoline 3-Oxides
Authors: Mphahlele Malose J.
Published: November 2022

The synthesis of quinazoline 3-oxides and their derivatives has attracted considerable attention due to their reactivity as intermediates in the synthesis of quinazoline analogues and their ring-expanded derivatives. Despite this, there is no comprehensive review dedicated to the synthesis and chemical transformation of these biologically relevant azaaromatic oxides. This review aims to provide an up-to-date record of the synthesis of quinazoline 3-oxides and their chemical transformation. It is hoped that this information will help medicinal chemistry researchers to design and synthesize new derivatives or analogues to treat various diseases.
Structures Controlled by Entropy: The Flexibility of Strychnine as Example
Authors: Sternberg Ulrich , Witter Raiker
Published: November 2022

To study the flexibility of strychnine, we performed molecular dynamics simulations with orientational tensorial constraints (MDOC). Tensorial constraints are derived from nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) interaction tensors, for instance, from residual dipolar couplings (RDCs). Used as orientational constraints, they rotate the whole molecule and molecular parts with low rotational barriers. Since the NMR parameters are measured at ambient temperatures, orientational constraints generate conformers that populate the whole landscape of Gibbs free energy. In MDOC, structures are populated that are not only controlled by energy but by the entropy term TΔS of the Gibbs free energy. In the case of strychnine, it is shown that ring conformers are populated, which has not been discussed in former investigations. These conformer populations are not only in accordance with RDCs but fulfill nuclear Overhauser effect (NOE)-derived distance constraints and 3JHH couplings as well.
Phytochemistry and Antihyperglycemic Potential of Cistus salviifolius L., Cistaceae
Authors: Hitl Maja , Bijelić Katarina , Stilinović Nebojša , Božin Biljana , Srđenović-Čonić Branislava , Torović Ljilja , Kladar Nebojša
Published: November 2022

Cistus salviifolius has been previously reported as a traditional remedy for hyperglycemia. However, the plant has been scarcely investigated from scientific point of view. Thus, the aim was to examine the chemical composition and to evaluate its antioxidant and antihyperglycemic potential in vitro. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts were evaluated for total phenolic, tannin, and flavonoid content using spectrophotometric methods. Detailed chemical characterization was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-DAD). The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) profile was assessed by gas chromatography technique. The potential in diabetes treatment was evaluated through tests of free radicals neutralization, inhibition of lipid peroxidation process, and test of ferric ion reduction; activity in tests of inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucosidase and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 was also evaluated. High content of phenolics (majority being tannins) was detected; detailed HPLC analysis revealed high content of gallic acid, followed by rutin, chlorogenic and caffeic acids. The VOCs analysis determined sesquiterpene hydrocarbons and oxygenated sesquiterpenes as the main groups of compounds. The assays classified extracts as potent neutralizers of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil and nitroso radicals formation and potent inhibitors of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. In conclusion, Cistus salviifolius represents a rich source of phenolics and essential oil with sesquiterpenes. The established results suggested its promising antioxidant and antihyperglycemic activities.
Impact of Nanotechnology from Nanosilica to Mitigate N and P Deficiencies Favoring the Sustainable Cultivation of Sugar Beet
Authors: Carvalho Lívia Tálita da Silva , Prado Renato de Mello , Da Silva José Lucas Farias , Ferreira Patrícia Messias , Antonio Renan Izildo
Published: November 2022

This research aimed to study the effects of the nanosilica supply on Si absorption and the physiological and nutritional aspects of beet plants with N and P deficiencies cultivated in a nutrient solution. Two experiments were performed with treatments arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial scheme in randomized blocks with five replications. The first experiment was carried out on plants under a N deficiency and complete (complete solution with all nutrients), combined with the absence of Si (0 mmol L−1) and the presence of Si (2.0 mmol L−1). In the other experiment, the plants were cultivated in a nutrient solution with a P deficiency and complete, combined with the absence (0 mmol L−1) and the presence of Si (2.0 mmol L−1). The beet crop was sensitive to the N and P deficiencies because they sustained important physiological damage. However, using nanosilica via fertigation could reverse the damage. Using nanotechnology from nanosilica constituted a sustainable strategy to mitigate the damage due to a deficiency in the beet crop of the two most limiting nutrients by optimizing the physiological processes, nutritional efficiency, and growth of the plants without environmental risks. The future perspective is the feasibility of nanotechnology for food security.
Pseudocapacitance-Enhanced Storage Kinetics of 3D Anhydrous Iron (III) Fluoride as a Cathode for Li/Na-Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Tao , Liu Yan , Chen Guihuan , Liu Hengjun , Han Yuanyuan , Zhai Shuhao , Zhang Leqing , Pan Yuanyuan , Li Qinghao , Li Qiang
Published: November 2022

Transition metal fluoride (TMF) conversion cathodes, with high energy density, are recognized as promising candidates for next-generation high-energy Li/Na-ion batteries (LIBs/SIBs). Unfortunately, the poor electronic conductivity and detrimental active material dissolution of TMFs seriously limit the performance of TMF-LIBs/SIBs. A variety of FeF3-based composites are designed to improve their electrochemical characteristics. However, the storage mechanism of the conversion-type cathode for Li+ and Na+ co-storage is still unclear. Here, the storage mechanism of honeycomb iron (III) fluoride and carbon (FeF3@C) as a general cathode for LIBs/SIBs is analyzed by kinetics. In addition, the FeF3@C cathode shows high electrochemical performance in a full-cell system. The results show that the honeycomb FeF3@C shows excellent long-term cycle stability in LIBs (208.3 mA h g−1 at 1.0 C after 100 cycles with a capacity retention of 98.1%). As a cathode of SIBs, the rate performance is unexpectedly stable. The kinetic analysis reveals that the FeF3@C cathode exhibit distinct ion-dependent charge storage mechanisms and exceptional long-durability cyclic performance in the storage of Li+/Na+, benefiting from the synergistic contribution of pseudocapacitive and reversible redox behavior. The work deepens the understanding of the conversion-type cathode in Li+/Na+ storage.
Strengthening Mechanism for the Mechanical Properties of Cement-Based Materials after Internal Nano-SiO2 Production
Authors: Zhang Jie , Ji Yongsheng , Ma Zhanguo , Cheng Jianwei , Xu Shengnan , Xu Zhishan , Zhang Zhongzhe
Published: November 2022

This study focuses on overcoming the agglomeration issue of nano-SiO2 powder in cement, facilitating the strengthening mechanism of cement-based materials. A nano-SiO2 precursor solution (NSPS) was added to cement-based materials to replace nano-SiO2 powder. The influencing laws of the alkalinity and dosage of the NSPS on the mechanical properties of cement were investigated. Further, the strengthening mechanism of the mechanical properties of cement-based materials after internal nano-SiO2 production was analysed. The results show that (1) when the alkalinity of the precursor solution is a weak acid (pH = 6), the compressive strength of cement-based materials after internal nano-SiO2 production is 25%~36% higher than that of pure cement-based materials and 16%~22% higher than that of cement-based materials with silica fume; (2) when the solid content of SiO2 in the current displacement solution is about 0.16% of the cement mass, the compressive strength of the prepared cement-based material is the highest. With the continuous increase in the solid content of SiO2 in the precursor solution, the compressive strength of cement-based materials after internal nano-SiO2 production decreases but is always greater than the compressive strength of the cement-based material mixed with nano-SiO2 micro powder. According to a microstructural analysis, nano-SiO2 particles that precipitate from the precursor solution can facilitate the hydration process of cement and enrich the gel products formed on the cement particle surface. In addition, new network structures among cement particles are formed, and precipitated nano-SiO2 particles fill in the spaces among these cement particles as crystal nuclei to connect the cement particles more tightly and compact the cement-based materials. This reinforces the mechanical properties of cement-based materials.
Reactive Flame-Retardant Cotton Fabric Coating: Combustion Behavior, Durability, and Enhanced Retardant Mechanism with Ion Transfer
Authors: Zhu Wenju , Wang Qing , Yang Mingyang , Li Minjing , Zheng Chunming , Li Dongxiang , Zhang Xiaohan , Cheng Bowen , Dai Zhao
Published: November 2022

In recent years, we have witnessed numerous indoor fires caused by the flammable properties of cotton. Flame-retardant cotton deserves our attention. A novel boric acid and diethylenetriaminepenta (methylene-phosphonic acid) (DTPMPA) ammonium salt-based chelating coordination flame retardant (BDA) was successfully prepared for cotton fabrics, and a related retardant mechanism with ion transfer was investigated. BDA can form a stable chemical and coordination bond on the surface of cotton fibers by a simple three-curing finishing process. The limiting oxygen index (LOI) value of BDA-90 increased to 36.1%, and the LOI value of cotton fabric became 30.3% after 50 laundering cycles (LCs) and exhibited excellent durable flame retardancy. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods were used to observe the bonding mode and morphology of BDA on cotton fibers. A synergistic flame-retardant mechanism of condensed and gas phases was concluded from thermogravimetry (TG), cone calorimeter tests, and TG-FTIR. The test results of whiteness and tensile strength showed that the physical properties of BDA-treated cotton fabric were well maintained.
Extreme Bendability of Atomically Thin MoS2 Grown by Chemical Vapor Deposition Assisted by Perylene-Based Promoter
Authors: Martella Christian , Campi Davide , Tummala Pinaka Pani , Kozma Erika , Targa Paolo , Codegoni Davide , Bernasconi Marco , Lamperti Alessio , Molle Alessandro
Published: November 2022

Shaping two-dimensional (2D) materials in arbitrarily complex geometries is a key to designing their unique physical properties in a controlled fashion. This is an elegant solution, taking benefit from the extreme flexibility of the 2D layers but requiring the ability to force their spatial arrangement from flat to curved geometries in a delicate balance among free-energy contributions from strain, slip-and-shear mechanisms, and adhesion to the substrate. Here, we report on a chemical vapor deposition approach, which takes advantage of the surfactant effects of organic molecules, namely the tetrapotassium salt of perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic acid (PTAS), to conformally grow atomically thin layers of molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) on arbitrarily nanopatterned substrates. Using atomically resolved transmission electron microscope images and density functional theory calculations, we show that the most energetically favorable condition for the MoS2 layers consists of its adaptation to the local curvature of the patterned substrate through a shear-and-slip mechanism rather than strain accumulation. This conclusion also reveals that the perylene-based molecules have a role in promoting the adhesion of the layers onto the substrate, no matter the local-scale geometry.
Influence of the Composition and Testing Modes on the Electrochemical Performance of Li-Rich Cathode Materials
Authors: Pechen Lidia , Makhonina Elena , Medvedeva Anna , Politov Yury , Rumyantsev Aleksander , Koshtyal Yury , Goloveshkin Alexander , Eremenko Igor
Published: November 2022

Li-rich oxides are promising cathode materials for Li-ion batteries. In this work, a number of different compositions of Li-rich materials and various electrochemical testing modes were investigated. The structure, chemical composition, and morphology of the materials synthesized were studied by XRD with Rietveld refinement, ICP-OES, and SEM. The particle size distributions were determined by a laser analyzer. The galvanostatic intermittent titration technique and galvanostatic cycling with different potential limits at various current densities were used to study the materials. The electrochemical study showed that gradual increase in the upper voltage limit (formation cycles) was needed to improve further cycling of the cathode materials under study. A comparison of the data obtained in different voltage ranges showed that a lower cut-off potential of 2.5 V (2.5–4.7 V range) was required for a good cyclability with a high discharge capacity. An increase in the low cut-off potential to 3.0 V (3.0–4.8 V voltage range) did not improve the electrochemical performance of the oxides and, on the contrary, considerably decreased the discharge capacity and increased the capacity fade. The LMR35 cathode material (Li1.149Ni0.184Mn0.482Co0.184O2) demonstrated the best functional properties among all the compositions studied.
High-Selective CO2 Capture in Amine-Decorated Al-MOFs
Authors: Wan Yinji , Miao Yefan , Zhong Ruiqin , Zou Ruqiang
Published: November 2022

Amine-functionalized metal-organic framework (MOF) material is a promising CO2 captor in the post-combustion capture process owing to its large CO2 working capacity as well as high CO2 selectivity and easy regeneration. In this study, an ethylenediamine (ED)-decorated Al-based MOFs (named ED@MOF-520) with a high specific area and permanent porosity are prepared and evaluated to study the adsorption and separation of CO2 from N2. The results show that ED@MOF-520 adsorbent displays a superior CO2 capture performance with a CO2/N2 separation factor of 50 at 273 K, 185% times increase in the CO2/N2 separation efficiency in comparison with blank MOF-520. Furthermore, ED@MOF-520 exhibits a moderate-strength interaction with 29 kJ mol−1 adsorption heat for CO2 uptake, which not only meets the requirement of CO2 adsorption but also has good cycle stability. This work provides a promising adsorbent with a high CO2/N2 separation factor to deal with carbon peak and carbon neutrality.
Graphene and 2D Hexagonal Boron Nitride Heterostructure for Thermal Management in Actively Tunable Manner
Authors: Sun Huibin , Jiang Yunlei , Hua Renjie , Huang Runhua , Shi Lei , Dong Yuan , Liang Suxia , Ni Jing , Zhang Chi , Dong Ruoyu , Song Yingru
Published: November 2022

Thermal management is a critical task for highly integrated or high-power semiconductor devices. Low dimensional materials including graphene and single-layer hexagonal boron nitride (BN) are attractive candidates for this task because of their high thermal conductivity, semi-conductivity and other excellent physical properties. The similarities in crystal structure and chemistry between graphene and boron nitride provide the possibility of constructing graphene/BN heterostructures bearing unique functions. In this paper, we investigated the interfacial thermal transport properties of graphene/BN nanosheets via non-equilibrium molecular dynamics (NEMD) simulations. We observed a significant thermal rectification behavior of these graphene/BN nanosheets, and the rectification ratio increased with the system length increases up to 117%. This phenomenon is attributed to the mismatch of out-of-plane phonon vibration modes in two directions at the interface. In addition, we explored the underlying mechanism of the length dependence of the thermal transport properties. The results show promise for the thermal management of this two-dimensional heterostructure in an actively tunable manner.
Inadequate Choline Intake in Pregnant Women in Germany
Authors: Roeren Merle , Kordowski Anna , Sina Christian , Smollich Martin
Published: November 2022

Choline is an essential nutrient that is involved in various developmental processes during pregnancy. While the general adequate choline intake (AI) for adults has been set at 400 mg/day by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), an AI of 480 mg/day has been derived for pregnant women. To date, the choline intake of pregnant women in Germany has not been investigated yet. Therefore, in this survey, the total choline intake from dietary and supplementary sources in pregnant women was estimated using an online questionnaire. A total of 516 pregnant women participated in the survey, of which 283 met the inclusion criteria (13 to 41 weeks of gestational age, 19–45 years). 224 (79%) of the participants followed an omnivorous diet, 59 (21%) were vegetarian or vegan. Median choline intake was 260.4 (±141.4) mg/day, and only 19 women (7%) achieved the adequate choline intake. The median choline intake of omnivores was significantly higher than that of vegetarians/vegans (269.5 ± 141.5 mg/day vs. 205.2 ± 101.2 mg/day; p < 0.0001). 5% (13/283) of pregnant women took choline-containing dietary supplements. In these women, dietary supplements provided 19% of the total choline intake. Due to the importance of choline for the developmental processes during pregnancy, the study results prove the urgent need for an improved choline supply for pregnant women.
Association between Seafood Intake and Cardiovascular Disease in South Korean Adults: A Community-Based Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Park Gyu-Hee , Cho Jung-Hee , Lee Donglim , Kim Yangha
Published: November 2022

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most common non-communicable diseases causing 18.6 million deaths worldwide. Several studies have revealed that seafood consumption has a protective effect against CVD. This study investigated the correlation between CVD and seafood intake based on a 10-year follow-up of the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES). The study population, which included 6565 adults age, 55.65 (±8.68), was divided into seafood intake-based tertiles. CVD included myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral vascular disease. At baseline, participants with low seafood intake also had low eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) intakes. Prospectively, hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for CVD were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards regression models. Seafood intake exhibited a significantly inverse relationship with the cumulative CVD incidence over 10 years regardless of sex (women: log-rank test p < 0.001 and men: log-rank test p < 0.0401). The longitudinal association of low seafood intake with the CVD risk was significantly stronger in female participants after adjusting for confounding variables (HR (95% confidence interval (CI)) = 0.718 (0.519–0.993) p-trend = 0.043). These results suggested that seafood consumption potentially ameliorates CVD risk in middle-aged adults.
Dietary Advice to Support Glycaemic Control and Weight Management in Women with Type 1 Diabetes during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Authors: Ringholm Lene , Nørgaard Sidse Kjærhus , Rytter Ane , Damm Peter , Mathiesen Elisabeth Reinhardt
Published: November 2022

In women with type 1 diabetes, the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including congenital anomalies, preeclampsia, preterm delivery, foetal overgrowth and perinatal death is 2–4-fold increased compared to the background population. This review provides the present evidence supporting recommendations for the diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding in women with type 1 diabetes. The amount of carbohydrate consumed in a meal is the main dietary factor affecting the postprandial glucose response. Excessive gestational weight gain is emerging as another important risk factor for foetal overgrowth. Dietary advice to promote optimized glycaemic control and appropriate gestational weight gain is therefore important for normal foetal growth and pregnancy outcome. Dietary management should include advice to secure sufficient intake of micro- and macronutrients with a focus on limiting postprandial glucose excursions, preventing hypoglycaemia and promoting appropriate gestational weight gain and weight loss after delivery. Irrespective of pre-pregnancy BMI, a total daily intake of a minimum of 175 g of carbohydrate, mainly from low-glycaemic-index sources such as bread, whole grain, fruits, rice, potatoes, dairy products and pasta, is recommended during pregnancy. These food items are often available at a lower cost than ultra-processed foods, so this dietary advice is likely to be feasible also in women with low socioeconomic status. Individual counselling aiming at consistent timing of three main meals and 2–4 snacks daily, with focus on carbohydrate amount with pragmatic carbohydrate counting, is probably of value to prevent both hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia. The recommended gestational weight gain is dependent on maternal pre-pregnancy BMI and is lower when BMI is above 25 kg/m2. Daily folic acid supplementation should be initiated before conception and taken during the first 12 gestational weeks to minimize the risk of foetal malformations. Women with type 1 diabetes are encouraged to breastfeed. A total daily intake of a minimum of 210 g of carbohydrate is recommended in the breastfeeding period for all women irrespective of pre-pregnancy BMI to maintain acceptable glycaemic control while avoiding ketoacidosis and hypoglycaemia. During breastfeeding insulin requirements are reported approximately 20% lower than before pregnancy. Women should be encouraged to avoid weight retention after pregnancy in order to reduce the risk of overweight and obesity later in life. In conclusion, pregnant women with type 1 diabetes are recommended to follow the general dietary recommendations for pregnant and breastfeeding women with special emphasis on using carbohydrate counting to secure sufficient intake of carbohydrates and to avoid excessive gestational weight gain and weight retention after pregnancy.
Quercetin Attenuates Nitroglycerin-Induced Migraine Headaches by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Mediators
Authors: Foudah Ahmed I. , Devi Sushma , Alqarni Mohammed H. , Alam Aftab , Salkini Mohammad Ayman , Kumar Manish , Almalki Husam Saad
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to investigate the antimigraine potential of quercetin in migraine pain induced by nitroglycerin (NTG), 10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection in rats. Quercetin was administered orally for 1 week, and behavioral parameters associated with pain were assessed 30 min after NTG injection. At the end of the study, the rats were killed so that immunohistochemical examination of their brains could be performed. The time and frequency of rearing and sniffing in the category of exploratory behavior, walking in the category of locomotor behavior, and total time spent in the light chamber were reduced in the disease control group compared with the normal group during the assessment of behavioral parameters. Pathologic migraine criteria, such as increased levels of calcitonin gene-related peptide and increased release of c-fos cells, were more prominent in the caudal nucleus triceminalis of the NTG control group. In the treatment groups, behavioral and pathological measures were less severe after pretreatment with quercetin at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg. Therefore, it was concluded that quercetin improved the pain behavior of migraine patients in the NTG-induced migraine rat model. Quercetin is thought to have antimigraine effects due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Quercetin may therefore be a novel agent that can treat or prevent migraine pain and associated avoidance behaviors.
Dietary Patterns and New-Onset Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Evacuees after the Great East Japan Earthquake: A 7-Year Longitudinal Analysis in the Fukushima Health Management Survey
Authors: Ma Enbo , Ohira Tetsuya , Hirai Hiroyuki , Okazaki Kanako , Nagao Masanori , Hayashi Fumikazu , Nakano Hironori , Suzuki Yuriko , Sakai Akira , Takahashi Atsushi , Kazama Junichiro J. , Yabe Hirooki , Maeda Masaharu , Yasumura Seiji , Ohto Hitoshi , Kamiya Kenji , Shimabukuro Michio
Published: November 2022

Background: Dietary patterns may be linked to the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) after disasters. We investigated the association between dietary patterns and new-onset T2DM in evacuees of the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP) accident. Methods: Among the 22,740 non-diabetic participants aged 20–89 years who completed the dietary assessment in the Fukushima Health Management Survey between July 2011 and November 2012, the incidence of T2DM was evaluated until 2018. Principal component analysis with varimax rotation was applied to derive dietary patterns based on a validated, short-form food frequency questionnaire. The identified dietary patterns were categorized as typical Japanese, juice, and meat. Results: The cumulative incidence of T2DM was 18.0 and 9.8 per 1000 person-years in men and women, respectively, during the follow-up period. The multiple-adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of the highest vs. lowest quartile of the typical Japanese pattern scores for T2DM was 0.80 (0.68, 0.94; P for trend = 0.015) in total, 0.85 (0.68, 1.06; P for trend = 0.181) in men, and 0.76 (0.60, 0.95; P for trend = 0.04) in women. Conclusions: A typical Japanese dietary pattern may be associated with a reduced new-onset T2DM risk in evacuees, especially women, after the Great East Japan Earthquake and the FDNPP accident.