bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A consistent and corrected nighttime light dataset (CCNL 1992–2013) from DMSP-OLS data
Authors: Zhao Chenchen , Cao Xin , Chen Xuehong , Cui Xihong
Published: July 2022

Remote sensing of nighttime light can observe the artificial lights at night on the planet’s surface. The Defense Meteorological Satellite Program’s Operational Line Scan (DMSP-OLS) data (1992–2013) provide planet-scale nighttime light data over a long-time span and have been widely used in areas such as urbanization monitoring, socio-economic parameters estimation, and disaster assessment. However, due to the lack of an on-board calibration system, sensor design defects, limited light detection range, and inadequate quantization levels, the applications of DMSP-OLS data are greatly limited by interannual inconsistency, saturation, and blooming problems. To address these issues, we used the power function model based on pseudo-invariant feature, the saturation correction method based on regression model and radiance-calibrated data (SARMRC), and the self-adjusting model (SEAM) to improve the quality of DMSP data, and generated a Consistent and Corrected Nighttime Light dataset (CCNL 1992–2013). CCNL dataset shows good performance in interannual consistency, spatial details of urban centers, and light blooming, which is helpful to fully explore the application potentials of long time series nighttime light data.
Genetic dissection of grain iron and zinc, and thousand kernel weight in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) using genome-wide association study
Authors: Krishnappa Gopalareddy , Khan Hanif , Krishna Hari , Kumar Satish , Mishra Chandra Nath , Parkash Om , Devate Narayana Bhat , Nepolean Thirunavukkarasu , Rathan Nagenahalli Dharmegowda , Mamrutha Harohalli Masthigowda , Srivastava Puja , Biradar Suma , Uday Govindareddy , Kumar Monu , Singh Gyanendra , Singh Gyanendra Pratap
Published: July 2022

Genetic biofortification is recognized as a cost-effective and sustainable strategy to reduce micronutrient malnutrition. Genomic regions governing grain iron concentration (GFeC), grain zinc concentration (GZnC), and thousand kernel weight (TKW) were investigated in a set of 280 diverse bread wheat genotypes. The genome-wide association (GWAS) panel was genotyped using 35 K Axiom Array and phenotyped in five environments. The GWAS analysis showed a total of 17 Bonferroni-corrected marker-trait associations (MTAs) in nine chromosomes representing all the three wheat subgenomes. The TKW showed the highest MTAs (7), followed by GZnC (5) and GFeC (5). Furthermore, 14 MTAs were identified with more than 10% phenotypic variation. One stable MTA i.e. AX-95025823 was identified for TKW in both E4 and E5 environments along with pooled data, which is located at 68.9 Mb on 6A chromosome. In silico analysis revealed that the SNPs were located on important putative candidate genes such as Multi antimicrobial extrusion protein, F-box domain, Late embryogenesis abundant protein, LEA-18, Leucine-rich repeat domain superfamily, and C3H4 type zinc finger protein, involved in iron translocation, iron and zinc homeostasis, and grain size modifications. The identified novel MTAs will be validated to estimate their effects in different genetic backgrounds for subsequent use in marker-assisted selection. The identified SNPs will be valuable in the rapid development of biofortified wheat varieties to ameliorate the malnutrition problems.
Locomotion of an untethered, worm-inspired soft robot driven by a shape-memory alloy skeleton
Authors: Xu Lin , Wagner Robert J. , Liu Siyuan , He Qingrui , Li Tao , Pan Wenlong , Feng Yu , Feng Huanhuan , Meng Qingguang , Zou Xiang , Fu Yu , Shi Xingling , Zhao Dongliang , Ding Jianning , Vernerey Franck J.
Published: July 2022

Soft, worm-like robots show promise in complex and constrained environments due to their robust, yet simple movement patterns. Although many such robots have been developed, they either rely on tethered power supplies and complex designs or cannot move external loads. To address these issues, we here introduce a novel, maggot-inspired, magnetically driven “mag-bot” that utilizes shape memory alloy-induced, thermoresponsive actuation and surface pattern-induced anisotropic friction to achieve locomotion inspired by fly larvae. This simple, untethered design can carry cargo that weighs up to three times its own weight with only a 17% reduction in speed over unloaded conditions thereby demonstrating, for the first time, how soft, untethered robots may be used to carry loads in controlled environments. Given their small scale and low cost, we expect that these mag-bots may be used in remote, confined spaces for small objects handling or as components in more complex designs.
Nasal-spraying Bacillus spores as an effective symptomatic treatment for children with acute respiratory syncytial virus infection
Authors: Tran Dien Minh , Tran Tu Thanh , Phung Thuy Thi Bich , Bui Huyen Thi , Nguyen Phuc Thanh Thi , Vu Tam Thi , Ngo Nga Thi Phuong , Nguyen Mai Thi , Nguyen Anh Hoa , Nguyen Anh Thi Van
Published: July 2022

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of Acute Respiratory Tract Infections (ARTIs) in young children. However, there is currently no vaccine or treatment available for children. Here, we demonstrated that nasal-spraying probiotics containing 5 billion of Bacillus spores (LiveSpo Navax) is an effective symptomatic treatment in a 6-day randomized controlled clinical study for RSV-infected children (n = 40–46/group). Navax treatment resulted in 1-day faster recovery-time and 10–50% better efficacy in relieving ARTI symptoms. At day 3, RSV load and level of pro-inflammatory cytokines in nasopharyngeal samples was reduced by 630 folds and 2.7–12.7 folds respectively. This showed 53-fold and 1.8–3.6-fold more effective than those in the control-standard of care-group. In summary, nasal-spraying Bacillus spores can rapidly and effectively relieve symptoms of RSV-induced ARTIs while exhibit strong impacts in reducing viral load and inflammation. Our nasal-spraying probiotics may provide a basis for simple-to-use, low-cost, and effective treatment against viral infection in general.
Controlled release of vitamin D3 using a nanocellulose-based membrane
Authors: Colturato Pedro L. , Goveia Danielle
Published: July 2022

Epidemiological studies show that a significant fraction of the global population presents low levels of vitamin D3. In order to address this problem, one way to administer the vitamin is to incorporate it in novel drug delivery systems, such as transdermal devices. A possible substance for this purpose is cellulose, which has a long history of use in the health area. However, the application of nanostructured cellulose membranes, as local drug delivery systems, remains a challenge. To develop a crystalline nanocellulose membrane as a new tool for the release of vitamin D3. A new nanostructured membrane containing nanocellulose extracted from cotton linter and vitamin D3 was produced using the “casting” technique. The membrane was characterized using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The kinetics of vitamin release was quantified using molecular spectroscopy (UV–Vis). The FT-IR spectra showed the presence of all the active components in the membrane sample, without structural alterations or the formation of new bonds. The FEG-SEM images showed the presence of vitamin crystals on the surface and in the interior of the membrane. The release of vitamin D3 occurred in a sustained manner, obtaining 3029 IU mL−1 of vitamin D3 in 60 min. The findings demonstrated that the membrane could be used for the sustained release of vitamin D3. This new biomaterial has potential as a new model for vitamin supplementation in individuals with vitamin D3 deficiency.
Beneficial use of hyperbaric process conditions on the welding of high-strength low alloy steels
Authors: Treutler K. , Brechelt S. , Wiche H. , Wesling V.
Published: July 2022

Hyperbaric welding is used for different steels in many underwater applications as a repair welding process. A difference between wet and dry welding processes can be made. Due to the increased ambient pressure, these processes have special features inherent in the process that influence the cooling and penetration behaviour. The positive use of these effects outside underwater applications is currently rarely addressed in science and application. The presented work establishes these advantages on the basis of a higher strength structural steel and characterizes the effects on the microstructure of a joined S700MC steel and on the mechanical properties of the joint. It will be shown that a hyperbaric environment can be used to orient the weld more towards the depth of the sheet. Furthermore, it will be shown that this change leads to modified cooling, which in itself influences the mechanical properties of the weld seam.
Influence of water stress on engineering characteristics and oil content of sunflower seeds
Authors: Mostafa Harby , Afify Mohamed T.
Published: July 2022

Knowing some physical and mechanical characteristics and oil percentage of sunflower seeds could be useful for harvesting and processing equipment and activities such as transportation, storage, food production processes and establishing database of this seed. The main aim of this research was to study the effect of water stress during irrigation on seed’s properties and quality. For this purpose, a field experiment was done under four deficit irrigation treatments [80%, 60%, 100–80 (100% irrigation requirement ETc to seed formation, and then reduced to 80% until harvesting) and 100–60% (100% ETc to seed formation, and then reduced to 60% until harvesting)] in comparable with full irrigation (100%). Geometrical, gravimetrical and mechanical characteristics as well as oil seed content and yield of sunflower seed were estimated. Result showed that there was no significant effect of low (100–80%) and medium (80%) irrigation deficit treatments on geometrical, gravimetrical and mechanical characteristics, while applying 60% of irrigation requirement (ETc) showed a significant effect on them. On the other hand, low and medium irrigation stress treatments improved the oil yield and seed oil content. The highest increase was 8.54% and 5.6% for oil yield and oil content respectively, considering T100–80 followed by applying 80% ETc, but with high water stress (60% ETc) oil yield and seed oil content significantly decreased.
Relationship between hyperhomocysteinemia and coexisting obesity with low skeletal muscle mass in asymptomatic adult population
Authors: Yoo Tae Kyung , Rhim Hye Chang , Lee Yong-Taek , Yoon Kyung Jae , Park Chul-Hyun
Published: July 2022

The relationship between hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) and obesity with low skeletal muscle mass (LMM) has not been established. We aim to assess the association between HHcy and the coexistence of obesity and LMM in asymptomatic adult population. We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study among asymptomatic individuals who underwent measurements of plasma homocysteine and body composition analysis. HHcy was defined as > 15 umol/L, obesity as body mass index ≥ 25 (kg/m2), and LMM as skeletal muscle index less than 2 SD below the sex-specific mean of young adults. The participants were classified into ‘control’, ‘obesity alone’, ‘LMM alone’, and ‘obesity with LMM’. Among 113,805 participants, the prevalence of HHcy was 8.3% in control, 8.7% in obesity alone, 10.0% in LMM alone, and 13.0% in obesity with LMM (p for trend < 0.001). In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, the associations showed a positive trend for HHcy along the groups from obesity alone, to LMM alone, and to obesity with LMM. HHcy was independently associated with the presence of LMM alone (adjusted odds ratio 1.186 [95% confidence interval 1.117–1.259]) and obesity with LMM (1.424 [1.134–1.788]), respectively. This study demonstrated that HHcys was more strongly associated with coexistence of obesity and LMM than either condition alone in the adult population.
Amplification of CDK4 and MDM2: a detailed study of a high-risk neuroblastoma subgroup
Authors: Martinez-Monleon Angela , Kryh Öberg Hanna , Gaarder Jennie , Berbegall Ana P. , Javanmardi Niloufar , Djos Anna , Ussowicz Marek , Taschner-Mandl Sabine , Ambros Inge M. , Øra Ingrid , Sandstedt Bengt , Beiske Klaus , Ladenstein Ruth , Noguera Rosa , Ambros Peter F. , Gordon Murkes Lena , Ljungman Gustaf , Kogner Per , Fransson Susanne , Martinsson Tommy
Published: July 2022

In neuroblastoma, MYCN amplification and 11q-deletion are important, although incomplete, markers of high-risk disease. It is therefore relevant to characterize additional alterations that can function as prognostic and/or predictive markers. Using SNP-microarrays, a group of neuroblastoma patients showing amplification of one or multiple 12q loci was identified. Two loci containing CDK4 and MDM2 were commonly co-amplified, although amplification of either locus in the absence of the other was observed. Pharmacological inhibition of CDK4/6 with ribociclib or abemaciclib decreased proliferation in a broad set of neuroblastoma cell lines, including CDK4/MDM2-amplified, whereas MDM2 inhibition by Nutlin-3a was only effective in p53wild-type cells. Combined CDK4/MDM2 targeting had an additive effect in p53wild-type cell lines, while no or negative additive effect was observed in p53mutated cells. Most 12q-amplified primary tumors were of abdominal origin, including those of intrarenal origin initially suspected of being Wilms’ tumor. An atypical metastatic pattern was also observed with low degree of bone marrow involvement, favoring other sites such as the lungs. Here we present detailed biological data of an aggressive neuroblastoma subgroup hallmarked by 12q amplification and atypical clinical presentation for which our in vitro studies indicate that CDK4 and/or MDM2 inhibition also could be beneficial.
A simple cognitive method to improve the prediction of matters of taste by exploiting the within-person wisdom-of-crowd effect
Authors: Fujisaki Itsuki , Honda Hidehito , Ueda Kazuhiro
Published: July 2022

In our daily lives, we must often predict the level of others’ satisfaction with something they have not experienced thus far. How can such a prediction be accurate? Existing studies indicate that, by referring to the extent to which people themselves have enjoyed something, they are able to predict others’ future satisfaction, to some extent. In this study, we propose a method that can further improve such predictions. This method is expected to allow individuals to exploit the ‘wisdom of the crowd’ within a person, in terms of taste. Specifically, for a single target, participants in our study group produced two opinions from different perspectives: the degree to which they preferred something, and they estimated ‘public opinion’. Utilising two behavioural studies and computer simulations, we confirmed the effectiveness of our method; specifically, blending the two opinions could enhance an individual’s prediction ability. Subsequently, we mathematically analysed how effective our method is and identified several factors that influenced its efficiency. Our findings offer several contributions to ‘wisdom-of-crowd’ research.
Synchrony in triadic jumping performance under the constraints of virtual reality
Authors: Naito Ayana , Go Kentaro , Shima Hiroyuki , Kijima Akifumi
Published: July 2022

The use of an immersive virtual reality system as a work space for sports and physical education can help maintain physical communication from separate places. In this study, we verified the possibility of constructing a movement synchrony system by reproducing the mathematical ordered pattern of “triadic jumping” in a virtual space. Three jumpers were asked to move together in a space that was cramped and insufficient for them to pass each other. Within this restricted space, the ordered pattern of the jumpers’ synchrony systematically transited to another state depending on the geometrical configuration of the work space. Although the temporal rigidity of the synchrony was partially lost, the ordered pattern of the “triadic jumping” synchrony that emerged in the virtual space was qualitatively equivalent to that emerging in real space. We believe the idea of expanding the work space for physical education to a virtual one could turn into reality if the sensory feedback of the collision successfully improves the spatial-temporal rigidity of the joint action ordered pattern.
Cryopreservation of six Symbiodiniaceae genera and assessment of fatty acid profiles in response to increased salinity treatments
Authors: Kihika Joseph Kanyi , Wood Susanna A. , Rhodes Lesley , Smith Kirsty F. , Miller Matthew R. , Pochon Xavier , Thompson Lucy , Butler Juliette , Schattschneider Jessica , Oakley Clint , Ryan Ken G.
Published: July 2022

Symbiodiniaceae are a diverse group of dinoflagellates, the majority of which are free-living and/or associated with a variety of protists and other invertebrate hosts. Maintenance of isolated cultures is labour-intensive and expensive, and cryopreservation provides an excellent avenue for their long-term storage. We aimed to cryopreserve 15 cultured isolates from six Symbiodiniaceae genera using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as the cryoprotectant agent (CPA). Under 15% DMSO, 10 isolates were successfully cryopreserved using either rapid freezing or controlled-rate freezing. Cultures that failed or had low survival, were subjected to (1) a reduction of CPA to 10%, or (2) increased salinity treatment before freezing. At 10% DMSO, three further isolates were successfully cryopreserved. At 15% DMSO there were high cell viabilities in Symbiodinium pilosum treated with 44 parts per thousand (ppt) and 54 ppt culture medium. An isolate of Fugacium sp. successfully cryopreserved after salinity treatments of 54 ppt and 64 ppt. Fatty acid (FA) analyses of S. pilosum after 54 ppt salinity treatment showed increased saturated FA levels, whereas Fugacium sp. had low poly-unsaturated FAs compared to normal salinity (34 ppt). Understanding the effects of salinity and roles of FAs in cryopreservation will help in developing protocols for these ecologically important taxa.
Design, synthesis, and characterization of a novel Zn(II)-2-phenyl benzimidazole framework for the removal of organic dyes
Authors: Alibakhshi Shabnam , Shahvelayati Ashraf S. , Sheshmani Shabnam , Ranjbar Maryam , Souzangarzadeh Saeid
Published: July 2022

A novel Zn (II) organic framework comprising 2-phenyl benzimidazole (ZPBIF-1) was synthesized by using a solvothermal method. The characterization of the synthesized MOF was performed utilizing XRD, SEM, FT-IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, MS, XPS, TG/DTA, and N2 sorption analysis. ZPBIF-1 was successfully utilized to remove Acid red 88, Basic Violet 14, Basic Blue 54, and Congo red dyes in aqueous solutions. In this study, some parameters, including adsorbent dosage, initial dye concentration, contact time, temperature, and pH, were examined. To evaluate the experimental data, Freundlich, Langmuir, Temkin, and Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherm models were used. In this case, Langmuir is the most suitable model. Several kinetic models, including First-order, pseudo-first-order, second-order, and Pseudo-second-order kinetic models, Elovich's, and Weber's intraparticle diffusion models, were utilized to comprehend the detailed adsorption process. According to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, dye sorption kinetics is best described. In addition, thermodynamic parameters like enthalpy (ΔH°), Gibbs free energy (ΔG°), and entropy (ΔS°) were also achieved and analyzed. The experimental studies thus suggest that Zn (II) metal–organic framework based on 2-phenyl benzimidazole could be a promising candidate for eliminating dyes from aqueous solution. Hence, the experimental studies suggest that a Zn (II) metal–organic framework based on 2-phenylbenzimidazole could be a promising candidate for eliminating dyes from aqueous solution. The maximum adsorption capacity of ZPBIF-1 was 1666.66, 1250, 1000, and 1250 mg/g for Acid red 88, Basic violet 14, Basic blue 54, and Congo red dyes, respectively. Furthermore, this method was used to remove contaminant dyes from textile wastewater, and an acceptable result was obtained.
Calcium responses to external mechanical stimuli in the multicellular stage of Dictyostelium discoideum
Authors: Hashimura Hidenori , Morimoto Yusuke V. , Hirayama Yusei , Ueda Masahiro
Published: July 2022

Calcium acts as a second messenger to regulate many cellular functions, including cell motility. In Dictyostelium discoideum, the cytosolic calcium level oscillates synchronously, and calcium waves propagate through the cell population during the early stages of development, including aggregation. In the unicellular phase, the calcium response through Piezo channels also functions in mechanosensing. However, calcium dynamics during multicellular morphogenesis are still unclear. Here, live imaging of cytosolic calcium revealed that calcium wave propagation, depending on cAMP relay, disappeared at the onset of multicellular body (slug) formation. Later, other forms of occasional calcium bursts and their propagation were observed in both anterior and posterior regions of migrating slugs. This calcium signaling also occurred in response to mechanical stimuli. Two pathways—calcium release from the endoplasmic reticulum via IP3 receptor and calcium influx from outside the cell—were involved in calcium signals induced by mechanical stimuli. These data suggest that calcium signaling is involved in mechanosensing in both the unicellular and multicellular phases of Dictyostelium development using different molecular mechanisms.
Investigation of the correlation between diabetic retinopathy and prevalent and incident migraine in a national cohort study
Authors: Vergmann Anna Stage , Stokholm Lonny , Rubin Katrine Hass , Thykjær Anne , Möller Sören , Laugesen Caroline Schmidt , Heegaard Steffen , Højlund Kurt , Kawasaki Ryo , Schielke Katja Christina , Grauslund Jakob
Published: July 2022

Migraine is a disease characterized by cerebral vasodilation. While diabetes has previously been associated with a lower risk of migraine, it is not known if diabetic retinopathy (DR), a retinal peripheral vascular occlusive disease, is a potential biomarker of protection against migraine. Therefore, we aimed to examine diabetic retinopathy as a marker of prevalent and 5-year incident migraine. In a national cohort, we compared patients with diabetes attending DR screening from The Danish National Registry of Diabetic Retinopathy (cases, n = 205,970) to an age- and gender-matched group of patients without diabetes (controls, n = 1,003,170). In the cross-sectional study, a multivariable model demonstrated a lower prevalence of migraine among cases compared with controls (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.81–0.85), with a lower risk in cases with DR than in those without (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.65–0.72). In the prospective study, a lower risk of incident migraine was found in a multivariable model in cases (HR 0.76, 95% CI 0.70–0.82), but this did not depend upon the presence of DR. To conclude, in a national study of more than 1.2 million people, patients screened for DR had a lower risk of present migraine, but DR was not a protective marker of incident migraine.
The evaluation of the reduction of radiation dose via deep learning-based reconstruction for cadaveric human lung CT images
Authors: Miyata Tomo , Yanagawa Masahiro , Kikuchi Noriko , Yamagata Kazuki , Sato Yukihisa , Yoshida Yuriko , Tsubamoto Mitsuko , Tomiyama Noriyuki
Published: July 2022

To compare the quality of CT images of the lung reconstructed using deep learning-based reconstruction (True Fidelity Image: TFI ™; GE Healthcare) to filtered back projection (FBP), and to determine the minimum tube current–time product in TFI without compromising image quality. Four cadaveric human lungs were scanned on CT at 120 kVp and different tube current–time products (10, 25, 50, 75, 100, and 175 mAs) and reconstructed with TFI and FBP. Two image evaluations were performed by three independent radiologists. In the first experiment, using the same tube current–time product, a side-by-side TFI and FBP comparison was performed. Images were evaluated with regard to noise, streak artifacts, and overall image quality. Overall image quality was evaluated in view of whole image quality. In the second experiment, CT images reconstructed using TFI and FBP with five different tube current–time products were displayed in random order, which were evaluated with reference to the 175 mAs-FBP image. Images were scored with regard to normal structure, abnormal findings, noise, streak artifacts, and overall image quality. Median scores from three radiologists were statistically analyzed. Quantitative evaluation of noise was performed by setting regions of interest (ROIs) in air. In first experiment, overall image quality was improved, and noise was decreased in images of TFI compared to that of FBP for all tube current–time products. In second experiment, scores of all evaluation items except for small vessels in images of 25 mAs-TFI were almost the same as that of 175 mAs-FBP (all p > 0.31). Using TFI instead of FBP, at least 85% radiation dose reduction could be possible without any degradation in the image quality.
Dynamic causal modelling of COVID-19 and its mitigations
Authors: Friston Karl J. , Flandin Guillaume , Razi Adeel
Published: July 2022

This technical report describes the dynamic causal modelling of mitigated epidemiological outcomes during the COVID-9 coronavirus outbreak in 2020. Dynamic causal modelling is a form of complex system modelling, which uses ‘real world’ timeseries to estimate the parameters of an underlying state space model using variational Bayesian procedures. Its key contribution—in an epidemiological setting—is to embed conventional models within a larger model of sociobehavioural responses—in a way that allows for (relatively assumption-free) forecasting. One advantage of using variational Bayes is that one can progressively optimise the model via Bayesian model selection: generally, the most likely models become more expressive as more data becomes available. This report summarises the model (on 6-Nov-20), eight months after the inception of dynamic causal modelling for COVID-19. This model—and its subsequent updates—is used to provide nowcasts and forecasts of latent behavioural and epidemiological variables as an open science resource. The current report describes the underlying model structure and the rationale for the variational procedures that underwrite Bayesian model selection.
Microwave-assisted Extraction
Authors: Destandau Emilie , Michel Thomas
Published: July 2022

For around thirty years Microwave Assisted Extraction (MAE) has been increasingly used for the extraction of natural compounds from plant matrices. MAE is based on the selective heating of polar molecules by microwave energy. This rapid and homogenous heating of a sample allows a short extraction time, and a reduction in solvent consumption and solvent waste; therefore, MAE is considered an environmental and human friendly method saving time, solvent, and energy. To perform an efficient MAE, some parameters such as solvent composition, solvent volume, solvent to feed ratio, time, power, matrix moisture, and particle size have to be controlled and optimized. Recent advances to go further in “green chemistry” have consisted of modifying MAE procedures such as MAE under vacuum or combining MAE with ultrasound. Moreover solvent free microwave extraction methods have been developed for volatile and non-volatile compound extraction and the use of alternative solvents such as water, ionic liquid, and deep eutectic solvents is spreading. Hence this chapter will present first the microwave heating principle and the influential parameters, then, microwave distillation, microwave assisted extraction for non-volatile compounds, and solvent free and extraction with alternative solvents will be presented. Pilot scale extraction for industrial application is also illustrated. Lastly, in the full concept of green chemistry the extraction of food by-products using NADEs is presented as a study case.
Supercritical Fluid Extraction
Authors: Gallego Rocío , Mendiola Jose A. , Herrero Miguel , Castro-Puyana María , Ibáñez Elena
Published: July 2022

In the present chapter a wide view of the use of supercritical fluids applied to Natural Product Extraction will be given. Supercritical Fluid Extraction (SFE), especially using CO2, can be a very interesting alternative to classical extraction methods for two main reasons: tunability and sustainability. In the first part of the chapter the fundamentals of SFE as well as the basic equipment and how certain parameters affect the extraction process in order to optimize it are outlined. Besides, the use of Gas Expanded Liquids using supercritical fluids is explored in the field of natural product extraction. The second part of this chapter is focused on applications of supercritical fluids for extraction from different sources: plants, marine products (algae, microalgae and others), and agricultural and food by-products. Also, a case study of a “Compressed fluids biorefinery platform” is shown using three sequential extractions, each one using the residue from the previous extraction step, and different types of products were obtained (lipids, carotenoids, antioxidants, and protein-carbohydrates).
Pulsed Electric Energy-assisted Extraction
Authors: Vorobiev Eugene , Lebovka Nikolai
Published: July 2022

The modern state and recent developments of pulsed electric energy-assisted (PEE) extraction are reviewed. The two main PEE techniques based on pulsed electric field (PEF) and high voltage electrical discharges (HVED) and their advantages and limitations are discussed. In particular, the designs and relevant process variables, treatment protocols, instrumentation, and commercial equipment manufacturers are presented. The total specific energies of PEE required for different food processing operations are compared. The PEE-assisted extraction techniques and their combined applications with treatment using ultrasound high pressure and microwave are discussed. Examples of application of PEE for the treatment of fresh foods, dairy, meat and fish products, fruits, vegetables, biomass feedstocks for bioactives recovery, processing of juices and wine, extraction of ingredients from food by-products and wastes, herbs and spices, microalgae, and yeasts are also presented. It was demonstrated that the PEE technologies are eco-friendly, waste-free, and economically attractive. Moreover, they allow extraction with high efficiency and better retention of color, flavors, and nutrients in extracts, and short treatment times.
Integration of Pressurized Fluid-based Technologies for Natural Products Processing
Authors: Santos Diego T. , Gomes Maria T. M. S. , Vardanega Renata , Rostagno Mauricio A. , Meireles M. Angela A.
Published: July 2022

Due to their characteristics, pressurized liquids and supercritical fluids have great potential in improving the overall process for the production of natural products. If properly designed, processes using pressurized liquids and/or supercritical fluids can be highly efficient and reduce costs while providing environmental benefits. However, one of the keys for the successful production of natural products using these fluids as solvents is the integration of different processes in one single on-line operation. There are several processes that can be performed on-line using pressurized liquids and/or supercritical fluids, including extraction, fractionation, purification, solvent evaporation, particle formation, and encapsulation of active ingredients. In several cases, the conventional processes used for the production of natural products can be replaced or improved by pressurized fluid techniques and thus the concept of process integration can be fully explored. Furthermore, the benefits involved are not only related to the manufacturing process and costs, but it is also possible to improve the quality of the final product. In this chapter, different aspects of the integration of pressurized fluid-based technologies for the extraction, fractionation, purification, and stabilization of extracts are discussed. Examples of successful applications of this concept are discussed and a case study dealing with the development of an integrated process for extraction and stabilization of bixin-rich extract utilizing a pressurized fluid in both processes is presented.
Isolation and Purification of Natural Products
Authors: Xiao Wang , Lei Fang , Hengqiang Zhao , Xiaojing Lin
Published: July 2022

The isolation and purification of compounds from natural products is the most important step for molecule structure identification, bioactivity test, quantity control of natural products and further industrial production. However, the isolation and purification of natural products is laborious and difficult, because they are usually complex in matrix, the active compounds are usually present in low content and can be thermolabile, etc. For these reasons, the selection of appropriate techniques and approaches is essential for obtaining the target compounds with a high yield. Over recent decades, many types of novel isolation and purification techniques, such as membrane filtration, preparative high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), counter-current chromatography (CCC), supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC), etc., have been introduced and investigated. However, it must be stressed that none of these techniques provide by itself a comprehensive solution to all separation problems and the best approach is usually to utilize a combination of different techniques. This chapter will present the techniques for the isolation and purification of natural products. Some case studies will be used to illustrate the isolation strategies for obtaining target compounds from various types of natural products.
Scale-up of Extraction Processes
Authors: Martínez Julian , Silva Luiz Paulo Sales
Published: July 2022

The challenge of finding scale-up criteria that allow reproducing laboratory data at higher scales is discussed in this chapter. The main factors that should be considered when scaling-up extraction processes will be presented, and the nature of thermodynamic and mass transfer changes implied by scale-up will be extensively discussed. An overview of the latest developments and applications in the field of natural products will be given. Some simple examples of the application of scale-up criteria are shown. Moreover, a case study will present experimental data of a scale-up procedure of supercritical fluid extraction from the laboratory to pilot scale.
Protective mechanisms of Zanthoxylum bungeanum essential oil on DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in mice based on a colonic mucosal transcriptomic approach
Authors: Zhang Huan , Guo Zhiqing , Wang Xiao , Xian Jing , Zou Liang , Zheng Chuan , Zhang Jinming
Published: July 2022

The ameliorative effects on ulcerative colitis (UC) as well as the related mechanisms of the essential oil derived from the edible herb Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim (ZBEO) have been demonstrated herein.
Functional electrospun polymeric materials for bioelectronic devices: a review
Authors: Majumder Sushmita , Sagor Md Mehadi Hassan , Arafat M Tarik
Published: July 2022

A myriad of polymers is being electrospun into functional bioelectronics. This method has been an effective way not only to fabricate newer devices but also to enhance the performance of the existing bioelecronics.
Facile fabrication of Ag@C@C8 nanoparticles as a SERS substrate and their environmental applications
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Xin Xiaoli , Li Anqi , Xu Tao , Li Luo , Liu Chang , Li Weihua , Li Jiansheng , Li Yi , Lu Rui
Published: July 2022

Carbon-coated silver (Ag@C) nanoparticles were prepared by a one-step hydrothermal synthesis method, the surface was modified with chlorodimethyloctylsilane (C8) to generate C8 functionalized Ag@C@C8 nanoparticles with long-term stability and high sensitivity.
Quantification of phosphatides in sunflower oils using a potentiometric e-tongue
Authors: Belugina Regina , Senchikhina Anna , Volkov Sergey , Fedorov Alexander , Legin Andrey , Kirsanov Dmitry
Published: July 2022

Potentiometric e-tongues are capable of phosphatide quantification in sunflower oils in a rapid and straightforward way.
Monitoring early-stage β-amyloid dimer aggregation by histidine site-specific two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy in a simulation study
Authors: Chatterjee Sompriya , Nam Yeonsig , Salimi Abbas , Lee Jin Yong
Published: July 2022

This research proposes histidine tautomerization hypothesis for amyloidosis and facilitates the application of histidine site specific 2D IR for studying early-stage protein self-assembly.
Excited state proton transfer of triplet state p-nitrophenylphenol to amine and alcohol: a spectroscopic and kinetic study
Authors: Pan Xinghang , Han Ting , Long Jing , Xie Binbin , Du Yong , Zhao Yanying , Zheng Xuming , Xue Jiadan
Published: July 2022

Hydroxyaromatic compounds (ArOHs) have a wide range of applications in catalytic synthesis and biological processes due to their increased acidity upon photo-excitation.
Stable excited dication: trapping on the S1 state of formaldehyde dication after strong field ionization
Authors: Singh Vaibhav , Cheng Chuan , Weinacht Thomas , Matsika Spiridoula
Published: July 2022

Unusual trapping of an excited state of a dication observed after strong field ionization. Symmetry is responsible for forbidden nonradiative and radiative decay.
Introduction of a triphenylamine substituent on pyridyl rings as a springboard for a new appealing brightly luminescent 1,3-di-(2-pyridyl)benzene platinum(ii) complex family
Authors: Colombo Alessia , De Soricellis Giulia , Fagnani Francesco , Dragonetti Claudia , Cocchi Massimo , Carboni Bertrand , Guerchais Véronique , Marinotto Daniele
Published: July 2022

A novel luminescent platinum(ii) complex family characterized by a long lifetime and a high quantum yield in the yellow-green or NIR region depending on the concentration.
Probabilistic risk assessment of AgNPs for human health through dietary consumptions of crops
Authors: Li Yingzhu , Cummins Enda
Published: July 2022

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are predicted to be continuously released in the agricultural sector, the subsequent potential human health risks through consumption of food crops has raised concern.
Are isothiocyanates and polyphenols from Brassicaceae vegetables emerging as preventive/therapeutic strategies for NAFLD? The landscape of recent preclinical findings
Authors: Bacil Gabriel P. , Cogliati Bruno , Cardoso Daniel R. , Barbisan Luís Fernando , Romualdo Guilherme R.
Published: July 2022

Effects of the most abundant bioactive compounds (isothiocyanates and polyphenols) of Brassicaceae vegetables on the gut-liver-adipose axis, which is pivotal for nonalcoholic fatty lvier disease (NAFLD) emergence/progression.
Fabrication of AgCu/TiO2 nanoparticle-based sensors for selective detection of xylene vapor
Authors: Maake Popoti J. , Mokoena Teboho P. , Bolokang Amogelang S. , Hintsho-Mbita Nomso , Tshilongo James , Cummings Franscious R. , Swart Hendrik C. , Iwuoha Emmanuel I. , Motaung David E.
Published: July 2022

The design and fabrication of innovative nanostructured materials that could display improved sensitivity, selectivity, and rapid response/recovery characteristics still present significant scientific challenges.
Dopant ion concentration-dependent upconversion luminescence of cubic SrF2:Yb3+,Er3+ nanocrystals prepared by a fluorolytic sol–gel method
Authors: Monks Melissa-Jane , Würth Christian , Kemnitz Erhard , Resch-Genger Ute
Published: July 2022

P-dependent relative spectral UCL distributions reveal different UCL quenching pathways in cubic phase SrF2:Yb3+,Er3+ and popular β-NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+.
Fluoride-free synthesis of anodic TiO2 nanotube layers: a promising environmentally friendly method for efficient photocatalysts
Authors: Hanif Muhammad Bilal , Thirunavukkarasu Guru Karthikeyan , Liapun Viktoriia , Makarov Hryhorii , Gregor Maros , Roch Tomas , Plecenik Tomas , Hensel Karol , Sihor Marcel , Monfort Olivier , Motola Martin
Published: July 2022

TiO2 nanotube (TNT) layers were prepared in fluoride-free nitrate-based electrolytes i.e., NaNO3, KNO3, Sr(NO3)2, and AgNO3via electrochemical anodization.
Synthesis, structural evolution and optical properties of a new family of oxychalcogenides [Sr3VO4][MQ3] (M = Ga, In, Q = S, Se)
Authors: Wang Ruiqi , Liang Fei , Zhang Xian , Yang Yunjia , Huang Fuqiang
Published: July 2022

New oxychalcogenides [Sr3VO4][MQ3] (M = Ga, In, Q = S, Se) were successfully synthesized. The Ga analogues feature a 0-D structure containing isolated [Ga2Q6]6−dimers, while the In analogues feature a 1-D structure containing∞[InQ3]3−chains.
Phase transition, thermal stability, and molecular dynamics of organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite [NH3(CH2)6NH3]CuCl4 crystals
Authors: Choi Moon Young , Lee Seon Ju , Ju Huiyeong , Lim Ae Ran
Published: July 2022

Powder X-ray diffraction patterns of [NH3(CH2)6NH3]CuCl4 at different temperatures.
Independently tunable all-dielectric synthetic multi-spectral metamaterials based on Mie resonance
Authors: Zhu Yeqing , Tian Xi , Fang Jiukai , Shi Yanpeng , Shi Shengnan , Zhang Shan , Song Jinmei , Li Meiping , Liu Xiaoyu , Wang Xiaodong , Yang Fuhua
Published: July 2022

An all-dielectric synthetic multi-spectral metamaterial and its resonant response in the visible and THz ranges.
Water management in anion-exchange membrane water electrolyzers under dry cathode operation
Authors: Koch Susanne , Disch Joey , Kilian Sophia K. , Han Yiyong , Metzler Lukas , Tengattini Alessandro , Helfen Lukas , Schulz Michael , Breitwieser Matthias , Vierrath Severin
Published: July 2022

Dry cathode operation is a desired operation mode in anion-exchange membrane water electrolyzers, but water management is crucial. This is visualized using high-resolution neutron radiography and the ion-exchange capacity of the cathode ionomer is varied.
Impact of various heterocyclic π-linkers and their substitution position on the opto-electronic attributes of the A–π–D–π–A type IECIO-4F molecule: a comparative analysis
Authors: Akram Sahar Javaid , Hadia N. M. A. , Iqbal Javed , Mehmood Rana Farhat , Iqbal Saleem , Shawky Ahmed M. , Asif Areeba , Somaily H. H. , Raheel Muhammad , Khera Rasheed Ahmad
Published: July 2022

We have introduced two series of six three-donor molecules, by the substitution of some effective π-linkers on the A–π–D–π–A type reference molecule IECIO-4F (taken as IOR) for efficient organic solar cells.
Hexafluoroisobutylation of enolates through a tandem elimination/allylic shift/hydrofluorination reaction
Authors: Delamare Aline , Naulet Guillaume , Kauffmann Brice , Guichard Gilles , Compain Guillaume
Published: July 2022

Hexafluoroisobutylation of ketoesters, malonates, diketones, Schiff base esters and malononitrile is reported. The reaction involves an elimination/allylic shift/hydrofluorination cascade process that efficiently overcomes the usual SN2′ mechanism.
Applications of metal–organic framework-based bioelectrodes
Authors: Aggarwal Vidushi , Solanki Shipra , Malhotra Bansi D.
Published: July 2022

Metal–organic frameworks based bioelectrodes.
Sustainable composite of SnFe2O4 conversion alloying anode for lithium-ion storage
Authors: Yadav Poonam , Parte Golu , Malik Wahid , Sabri Ylias M. , Jones Lathe A. , Shelke Manjusha V.
Published: July 2022

An efficient composite anode is developed from recyclable waste and an earth abundant Fe containing oxide and it displays stable electrochemical performance.
Emergent collective behavior of active Brownian particles with visual perception
Authors: Negi Rajendra Singh , Winkler Roland G. , Gompper Gerhard
Published: July 2022

The collective dynamics of intelligent, self-steering, active Brownian particles is studied, with limited maneuverability in response to an instantaneous visual input of neighbor positions within a vision cone.
The crucial role of oxygen substitution in argyrodite solid electrolytes from the bulk to the surface under atmospheric conditions
Authors: Hwang Taesoon , Lee You-Jin , Lee So Ri , Ha Yoon-Cheol , Cho Maenghyo , Lee Sang-Min , Cho Kyeongjae
Published: July 2022

O substitution for S in argyrodite-type sulfide-based solid electrolytes enhances the stability by suppressing reaction with H2O and decomposition. O substitution modulates the electronic structures and then improves electrochemical performance.
A high polarity poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoroethylene) random copolymer with an all-trans conformation for solid-state LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2/lithium metal batteries
Authors: Zeng Jian-Ping , Liu Jun-Feng , Huang Hua-Dong , Shi Shao-Cong , Kang Ben-Hao , Dai Chen , Zhang Li-Wei , Yan Zhi-Chao , Stadler Florian J. , He Yan-Bing , Huang Yan-Fei
Published: July 2022

A unique P(VDF-TrFE) that always shows an all-trans conformation displays a strong polarity to promote the dissociation of lithium salts, increasing the ionic conductivity of solid-state polymer electrolytes to 4.48 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 25 °C.
Boosting the interfacial hydrogen migration for efficient alkaline hydrogen evolution on Pt-based nanowires
Authors: Lai Wenchuan , Yu Penglin , Gao Lei , Yang Zhilong , He Bingling , Huang Hongwen
Published: July 2022

The interfacial hydrogen migration on binary Pt-based alloy nanowires is thermodynamically and kinetically boosted by P-doping to enhance the supply of dissociated hydrogen, resulting in a substantially improved alkaline HER.
An injectable thermosensitive hydrogel with a self-assembled peptide coupled with an antimicrobial peptide for enhanced wound healing
Authors: Feng Tianqi , Wu Hongyan , Ma Wendi , Wang Zhaoguo , Wang Chunli , Wang Yilong , Wang Siyao , Zhang Mei , Hao Linlin
Published: July 2022

PNI/RA-Amps is an injectable thermo-reversible dressing triggered by body temperature, and exhibits a rapid reversible sol–gel–sol transition of ∼23 s. MGF E peptide was loaded into the hydrogel to enable bacteriostasis, hemostasis and wound healing.
Cationic lipopolymeric nanoplexes containing the CRISPR/Cas9 ribonucleoprotein for genome surgery
Authors: Sahel Deepak Kumar , Salman Mohd , Azhar Mohd , Goswami Sangam Giri , Singh Vivek , Dalela Manu , Mohanty Sujata , Mittal Anupama , Ramalingam Sivaprakash , Chitkara Deepak
Published: July 2022

sgRNA/Cas9 ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) provide a site-specific robust gene-editing.
Highly sensitive and simultaneous detection of ctDNAs related to non-small cell lung cancer in serum using a catalytic hairpin assembly strategy in a SERS microfluidic chip
Authors: Cao Xiaowei , Mao Yu , Gu Yuexing , Ge Shengjie , Lu Wenbo , Gu Yingyan , Li Zhiyue
Published: July 2022

A catalytic hairpin assembly-based SERS microfluidic chip was developed for rapid, sensitive, and simultaneous detection of two NSCLC-related ctDNAs.
Structural engineering of single-crystal-like perovskite nanocrystals for ultrasensitive photodetector applications
Authors: Kim Mi Kyong , Munkhsaikhan Zumuukhorol , Han Se Gyo , Park Su Min , Jin Haedam , Cha Jeongbeom , Yang Seok Joo , Seo Jungyoon , Lee Hwa Sung , Choi Chel-Jong , Kim Min
Published: July 2022

We report the synthesis method of ultralong one-dimensional (1D) inorganic perovskite nanorods with single-crystal-like molecular orientation for photodetector applications.