bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Oxygen Management during the Post-Fermentation Stage on Acetaldehyde, Color, and Phenolics of Vitis vinifera L. Cv. Cabernet Sauvignon Wine
Authors: Dai Lingmin , Sun Yuhang , Liu Muqing , Cui Xiaoqian , Wang Jiaqi , Li Jiming , Han Guomin
Published: October 2022

Oxygen exposure is unavoidable and the impact of its management during the post-fermentation stage (PFS) on dry red wine is poorly investigated. This study was dedicated to the variation of acetaldehyde, color and phenolics of Cabernet Sauvignon dry red wine during five discontinuous oxidation cycles of four levels of controlled oxygen supply, which were carried out to simulate probable oxidation during the PFS. Free SO2 disappeared after the first, second and third oxidation cycles in wines with high, medium and low levels of oxygen exposure severally, but subsequent oxygen exposure below or equal to 2 mg O2/L per cycle had little effect while 3–3.9 mg O2/L per cycle dramatically facilitated acetaldehyde accumulation, which was accompanied by an enormous variation in color and pigments, especially when total oxygen consumption was above 10 mg/L. The utilization of clustered heatmap and partial least square regression demonstrated the feasibility of characterization of wine oxidation degree using the chemical parameters measured by UV-spectrophotometry. Oxygen exposure during the PFS should be emphatically controlled, and chemical indexes determined by the UV–spectrophotometric method can be used for a scientific and effective description of wine oxidation degree.
The Consistency Factor and the Viscosity Exponent of Soybean-Protein-Isolate/Wheat-Gluten/Corn-Starch Blends by Using a Capillary Rheometry
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhao Donglin , Dong Ziyan , Li Jian , Zhang Bo , Yu Wenhua
Published: October 2022

Blends with different proportions of protein or starch show different rheological behaviors, which may be related to the fibrous structure formation of extruded textured plant proteins. The consistency factor K and the viscosity exponent n of soybean–protein–isolate (SPI)/wheat–gluten (WG)/corn–starch (CS) blends were investigated through capillary rheometry. All blends exhibited shear-thinning behavior at 80 °C and 50% moisture. The CS content in SPI/CS blends or WG content in SPI/WG blends showed a positive relation to the viscosity exponent n and a negative relation to the consistency factor K. However, there was no correlation between the CS content in WG/CS blends and n or K. The coefficient of determination of the linear relationship between K and mass fraction in SPI/CS, SPI/WG/CS, SPI/WG and WG/CS decreased from 0.872 to 0.073. SPI was more likely to form a non-interactive structure, while wheat-gluten was more likely to form a highly interactive structure. It turned out that the materials with globular morphology, such as soybean-protein-isolate and corn-starch, are likely to form a non-interactive structure.
Revealing Angiopep-2/LRP1 Molecular Interaction for Optimal Delivery to Glioblastoma (GBM)
Authors: di Polidoro Angela Costagliola , Cafarchio Andrea , Vecchione Donatella , Donato Paola , De Nola Francesco , Torino Enza
Published: October 2022

Background: The family of synthetic peptide angiopeps, and particularly angiopep-2 (ANG-2) demonstrated the ability preclinically and clinically to shuttle active molecules across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and selectively toward brain tumor cells. The literature has also proved that the transport occurs through a specific receptor-mediated transcytosis of the peptide by LRP-1 receptors present both on BBB and tumor cell membranes. However, contradictory results about exploiting this promising mechanism to engineer complex delivery systems, such as nanoparticles, are being obtained. Methodology: For this reason, we applied a molecular docking (MD)-based strategy to investigate the molecular interaction of ANG-2 and the LRP-1 ligand-binding moieties (CR56 and CR17), clarifying the impact of peptide conjugation on its transport mechanism. Results: MD results proved that ANG-2/LRP-1 binding involves the majority of ANG-2 residues, is characterized by high binding energies, and that it is site-specific for CR56 where the binding to 929ASP recalls a transcytosis mechanism, resembling the binding of the receptor to the receptor-associated protein. On the other hand, ANG-2 binding to CR17 is less site-specific but, as proved for apolipoprotein internalization in physiological conditions, it involves the ANG-2 lysin residue. Conclusions: Overall, our results proved that ANG-2 energetic interaction with the LRP-1 receptor is not hindered if specific residues of the peptide are chemically crosslinked to simple or complex engineered delivery systems.
Biosensors Based on Ion-Sensitive Field-Effect Transistors for HLA and MICA Antibody Detection in Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Min Thu Zar Ma Ma Moe , Phanabamrung Sonwit , Chaisriratanakul Woraphan , Pankiew Apirak , Srisuwan Awirut , Chauyrod Kondee , Pongskul Cholatip , Promptmas Chamras , Leelayuwat Chanvit
Published: October 2022

This work demonstrates the ability of the Ion-Sensitive Field-Effect Transistor (ISFET)-based immunosensor to detect antibodies against the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and the major histocompatibility complex class-I-related chain A (MICA). The sensing membrane of the ISFET devices was modified and functionalized using an APTES-GA strategy. Surface properties, including wettability, surface thickness, and surface topology, were assessed in each module of the modification process. The optimal concentrations of HLA and MICA proteins for the immobilization were 10 and 50 μg/mL. The dose-response curve showed a detection range of 1.98–40 µg/mL for anti-HLA and 5.17–40 µg/mL for anti-MICA. The analytical precision (%CV) was found to be 10.69% and 8.92% for anti-HLA and -MICA, respectively. Moreover, the electrical signal obtained from the irrelevant antibody was considerably different from that of the specific antibodies, indicating the specific binding of the relevant antibodies without noise interference. The sensitivity and specificity in the experimental setting were established for both antibodies (anti-HLA: sensitivity = 80.00%, specificity = 86.36%; anti-MICA: sensitivity = 86.67%, specificity = 88.89%). Our data reveal the potential of applying the ISFET-based immunosensor to the detection of relevant anti-HLA and -MICA antibodies, especially in the field of kidney transplantation.
Comparison of Origanum Essential Oil Chemical Compounds and Their Antibacterial Activity against Cronobacter sakazakii
Authors: Guo Xiaoqi , Hao Yuanpeng , Zhang Wenying , Xia Fei , Bai Hongtong , Li Hui , Shi Lei
Published: October 2022

Origanum vulgare L. (oregano) is an aromatic plant with wide applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Cronobacter sakazakii, which has a high detection rate in powdered infant formula, adversely impacts susceptible individuals. Oregano essential oil (OEO) is a natural antibacterial agent that can be used to fight bacterial contamination. Here, OEO chemical compounds from eight oregano varieties were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and their antibacterial properties were assessed. The eight OEOs were clustered into two groups and were more diverse in group 2 than in group 1. Six compounds, including p-cymene, 3-thujene, γ-terpinene, thymol, carvacrol, and caryophyllene, were shared by eight OEOs. Among the eight oregano varieties, OEOs from O. vulgare sc2 had the strongest antibacterial activity against C. sakazaki, with the inhibition zone of 18.22mm. OEOs from O. vulgare jx, O. ‘Nvying’, O. vulgare ‘Ehuang’, and O. vulgare ssp. virens were also potent. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of OEOs was positively correlated with the relative content of thymol. As the main OEO antibacterial compound, thymol affected the normal growth and metabolism of C. sakazakii cells by destroying the bacterial membrane and decreasing the intracellular ATP concentration. Thus, in light of the antibacterial activity detected in the OEOs from the eight oregano varieties, this study provides a theoretical foundation for oregano cultivar management and development.
Computational Insights into β-Carboline Inhibition of Monoamine Oxidase A
Authors: Prah Alja , Gavranić Tanja , Perdih Andrej , Sollner Dolenc Marija , Mavri Janez
Published: October 2022

Monoamine oxidases (MAOs) are an important group of enzymes involved in the degradation of neurotransmitters and their imbalanced mode of action may lead to the development of various neuropsychiatric or neurodegenerative disorders. In this work, we report the results of an in-depth computational study in which we performed a static and a dynamic analysis of a series of substituted β-carboline natural products, found mainly in roasted coffee and tobacco smoke, that bind to the active site of the MAO-A isoform. By applying molecular docking in conjunction with structure-based pharmacophores and molecular dynamics simulations coupled with dynamic pharmacophores, we extensively investigated the geometric aspects of MAO-A binding. To gain insight into the energetics of binding, we used the linear interaction energy (LIE) method and determined the key anchors that allow productive β-carboline binding to MAO-A. The results presented herein could be applied in the rational structure-based design and optimization of β-carbolines towards preclinical candidates that would target the MAO-A enzyme and would be applicable especially in the treatment of mental disorders such as depression.
Noncoding RNAs Emerging as Drugs or Drug Targets: Their Chemical Modification, Bio-Conjugation and Intracellular Regulation
Authors: Wang Jin , Tian Tian , Li Xin , Zhang Yan
Published: October 2022

With the increasing understanding of various disease-related noncoding RNAs, ncRNAs are emerging as novel drugs and drug targets. Nucleic acid drugs based on different types of noncoding RNAs have been designed and tested. Chemical modification has been applied to noncoding RNAs such as siRNA or miRNA to increase the resistance to degradation with minimum influence on their biological function. Chemical biological methods have also been developed to regulate relevant noncoding RNAs in the occurrence of various diseases. New strategies such as designing ribonuclease targeting chimeras to degrade endogenous noncoding RNAs are emerging as promising approaches to regulate gene expressions, serving as next-generation drugs. This review summarized the current state of noncoding RNA-based theranostics, major chemical modifications of noncoding RNAs to develop nucleic acid drugs, conjugation of RNA with different functional biomolecules as well as design and screening of potential molecules to regulate the expression or activity of endogenous noncoding RNAs for drug development. Finally, strategies of improving the delivery of noncoding RNAs are discussed.
A Novel Two-Dimensional ZnSiP2 Monolayer as an Anode Material for K-Ion Batteries and NO2 Gas Sensing
Authors: Pu Chunying , Wang Zhuo , Tang Xin , Zhou Dawei , Cheng Jinbing
Published: October 2022

Using the crystal-structure search technique and first-principles calculation, we report a new two-dimensional semiconductor, ZnSiP2, which was found to be stable by phonon, molecular-dynamic, and elastic-moduli simulations. ZnSiP2 has an indirect band gap of 1.79 eV and exhibits an anisotropic character mechanically. Here, we investigated the ZnSiP2 monolayer as an anode material for K-ion batteries and gas sensing for the adsorption of CO, CO2, SO2, NO, NO2, and NH3 gas molecules. Our calculations show that the ZnSiP2 monolayer possesses a theoretical capacity of 517 mAh/g for K ions and an ultralow diffusion barrier of 0.12 eV. Importantly, the ZnSiP2 monolayer exhibits metallic behavior after the adsorption of the K-atom layer, which provides better conductivity in a period of the battery cycle. In addition, the results show that the ZnSiP2 monolayer is highly sensitive and selective to NO2 gas molecules.
Mentha: Nutritional and Health Attributes to Treat Various Ailments Including Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Saqib Saddam , Ullah Fazal , Naeem Muhammad , Younas Muhammad , Ayaz Asma , Ali Sajid , Zaman Wajid
Published: October 2022

A poor diet, resulting in malnutrition, is a critical challenge that leads to a variety of metabolic disorders, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Mentha species are famous as therapeutic herbs and have long served as herbal medicine. Recently, the demand for its products, such as herbal drugs, medicines, and natural herbal formulations, has increased significantly. However, the available literature lacks a thorough overview of Mentha phytochemicals’ effects for reducing malnutritional risks against cardiovascular diseases. In this context, we aimed to review the recent advances of Mentha phytochemicals and future challenges for reducing malnutritional risks in cardiovascular patients. Current studies indicated that Mentha species phytochemicals possess unique antimicrobial, antidiabetic, cytotoxic, and antioxidant potential, which can be used as herbal medicine directly or indirectly (such as food ingredients) and are effective in controlling and curing cardiovascular diseases. The presence of aromatic and flavor compounds of Mentha species greatly enhance the nutritional values of the food. Further interdisciplinary investigations are pivotal to explore main volatile compounds, synergistic actions of phytochemicals, organoleptic effects, and stability of Mentha sp. phytochemicals.
Emerging Effects of Resveratrol on Wound Healing: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Jia Yuan , Shao Jia-Hao , Zhang Kai-Wen , Zou Ming-Li , Teng Ying-Ying , Tian Fan , Chen Meng-Nan , Chen Wei-Wei , Yuan Zheng-Dong , Wu Jun-Jie , Yuan Feng-Lai
Published: October 2022

Resveratrol (RSV) is a natural extract that has been extensively studied for its significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which are closely associated with a variety of injurious diseases and even cosmetic medicine. In this review, we have researched and summarized the role of resveratrol and its different forms of action in wound healing, exploring its role and mechanisms in promoting wound healing through different modes of action such as hydrogels, fibrous scaffolds and parallel ratio medical devices with their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-ageing properties and functions in various cells that may play a role in wound healing. This will provide a direction for further understanding of the mechanism of action of resveratrol in wound healing for future research.
Neuroimaging through Sonolucent Cranioplasty: A Systematic Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Rossitto Christina P. , Devarajan Alex , Price Gabrielle , Ali Muhammad , Kellner Christopher P.
Published: October 2022

Cranioplasty is a neurosurgical procedure in which the skull bone is repaired after craniectomy. Recently, studies have suggested that sonolucent synthetic materials are safe and useful for cranioplasty. Sonolucent cranioplasty (SC) implants provide unprecedented opportunity in adult neurosurgery to monitor neuroanatomy, assess hemodynamics, view devices located within the implant, and conduct focused ultrasound treatments. Current research on SC includes proof-of-concept cadaveric studies, patient-related safety and feasibility studies, and case series demonstrating transcranioplasty ultrasonography (TCUS). The purpose of this protocol is to investigate the current literature on SC use and outcomes in TCUS. We will perform a systematic literature search following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The search will be conducted using Ovid Embase, Ovid Medline, and Web of Science Core Collection databases. Titles, abstracts, and full texts will be screened. Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools will be utilized. Data extraction points will include subject characteristics, SC implant characteristics, ultrasound characteristics, and sonographic findings. These findings will provide a comprehensive review of the literature on sonolucent cranioplasty and directions for future research.
Graphene-Based Composites with Silver Nanowires for Electronic Applications
Authors: Giasafaki Dimitra , Mitzithra Christina , Belessi Vassiliki , Filippakopoulou Theodora , Koutsioukis Apostolos , Georgakilas Vasilios , Charalambopoulou Georgia , Steriotis Theodore
Published: October 2022

Graphene/metal nanocomposites have shown a strong potential for use in electronic applications. In particular, the combination of silver nanowires (AgNWs) with graphene derivatives leads to the formation of an efficient conductive network, thus improving the electrical properties of a composite. This work focused on developing highly conductive hydrophilic hybrids of simultaneously functionalized and reduced graphene oxide (f-rGO) and AgNWs in different weight ratios by following two different synthetic routes: (a) the physical mixture of f-rGO and AgNWs, and (b) the in situ reduction of GO in the presence of AgNWs. In addition, the role of AgNWs in improving the electrical properties of graphene derivatives was further examined by mixing AgNWs with a hybrid of few-layered graphene with functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (FLG/MWNT-f-OH). The studied materials showed a remarkable improvement in the overall electrical conductivity due to the synergistic effect of their components, which was proportional to the percentage of Ag and dependent on the procedure of the hybrid formation. One of the f-rGO/AgNWs composites was also selected for the preparation of gravure printing inks that were tested to determine their rheological and printing properties. All of the f-rGO/AgNWs composites were shown to be very promising materials for use as conductive inks for flexible electronics.
Effectiveness of Snail Slime in the Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Di Filippo Maria Francesca , Di Matteo Valentina , Dolci Luisa Stella , Albertini Beatrice , Ballarin Barbara , Cassani Maria Cristina , Passerini Nadia , Gentilomi Giovanna Angela , Bonvicini Francesca , Panzavolta Silvia
Published: October 2022

The development of green, low cost and sustainable synthetic routes to produce metal nanoparticles is of outmost importance, as these materials fulfill large scale applications in a number of different areas. Herein, snail slime extracted from Helix Aspersa snails was successfully employed both as bio-reducing agent of silver nitrate and as bio-stabilizer of the obtained nanoparticles. Several trials were carried out by varying temperature, the volume of snail slime and the silver nitrate concentration to find the best biogenic pathway to produce silver nanoparticles. The best results were obtained when the synthesis was performed at room temperature and neutral pH. UV–Visible Spectroscopy, SEM-TEM and FTIR were used for a detailed characterization of the nanoparticles. The obtained nanoparticles are spherical, with mean diameters measured from TEM images ranging from 15 to 30 nm and stable over time. The role of proteins and glycoproteins in the biogenic production of silver nanoparticles was elucidated. Infrared spectra clearly showed the presence of proteins all around the silver core. The macromolecular shell is also responsible of the effectiveness of the synthesized AgNPs to inhibit Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial growth.
A Review of the Green Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles Utilising Southern African Indigenous Medicinal Plants
Authors: Mutukwa Dorcas , Taziwa Raymond , Khotseng Lindiwe Eudora
Published: October 2022

Metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs), such as zinc oxide (ZnO), have been researched extensively for applications in biotechnology, photovoltaics, photocatalysis, sensors, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals due to their unique properties at the nanoscale. ZnO NPs have been fabricated using conventional physical and chemical processes, but these techniques are limited due to the use of hazardous chemicals that are bad for the environment and high energy consumption. Plant-mediated synthesis of ZnO NPs has piqued the interest of researchers owing to secondary metabolites found in plants that can reduce Zn precursors and stabilise ZnO NPs. Thus, plant-mediated synthesis of ZnO NPs has become one of the alternative green synthesis routes for the fabrication of ZnO NPs. This is attributable to its environmental friendliness, simplicity, and the potential for industrial-scale expansion. Southern Africa is home to a large and diverse indigenous medicinal plant population. However, the use of these indigenous medicinal plants for the preparation of ZnO NPs is understudied. This review looks at the indigenous medicinal plants of southern Africa that have been used to synthesise ZnO NPs for a variety of applications. In conclusion, there is a need for more exploration of southern African indigenous plants for green synthesis of ZnO NPs.
Defect Chemistry and Chemical Looping Performance of La1−xMxMnO3 (M = Sr, Ca, (x = 0–0.5)) Perovskites
Authors: Evdou Antigoni , Georgitsis Theofilos , Matsouka Charitini , Pachatouridou Eleni , Iliopoulou Eleni , Zaspalis Vassilios
Published: October 2022

La1−xMxMnO3 (M = Sr, Ca, (x = 0–0.5)) materials of the perovskite structure are synthesized by a co-precipitation method. They are subsequently investigated for their performance in a chemical looping process (fuel CH4) using thermogravimetric analysis with simultaneous reaction. The goal of this work is to determine the relation between the defect chemistry of the materials and their behavior in chemical looping processes. A defect model is proposed that provides an explanation of the dependency of the Oxygen Transfer Capacity and of the CO2/CO selectivity on composition. It appeared that the fuel may react with various types of oxygen available within the materials, generated by different mechanisms. The relative amounts of each oxygen type determine the CO2/CO selectivity and depend on the material composition as well as on the partial pressure of oxygen used for regenerating the materials.
High-Resolution Photoemission Study of Neutron-Induced Defects in Amorphous Hydrogenated Silicon Devices
Authors: Peverini Francesca , Bizzarri Marco , Boscardin Maurizio , Calcagnile Lucio , Caprai Mirco , Caricato Anna Paola , Cirrone Giuseppe Antonio Pablo , Crivellari Michele , Cuttone Giacomo , Dunand Sylvain , Fanò Livio , Gianfelici Benedetta , Hammad Omar , Ionica Maria , Kanxheri Keida , Large Matthew , Maruccio Giuseppe , Menichelli Mauro , Monteduro Anna Grazia , Moscatelli Francesco , Morozzi Arianna , Pallotta Stefania , Papi Andrea , Passeri Daniele , Petasecca Marco , Petringa Giada , Pis Igor , Quarta Gianluca , Rizzato Silvia , Rossi Alessandro , Rossi Giulia , Scorzoni Andrea , Soncini Cristian , Servoli Leonello , Tacchi Silvia , Talamonti Cinzia , Verzellesi Giovanni , Wyrsch Nicolas , Zema Nicola , Pedio Maddalena
Published: October 2022

In this paper, by means of high-resolution photoemission, soft X-ray absorption and atomic force microscopy, we investigate, for the first time, the mechanisms of damaging, induced by neutron source, and recovering (after annealing) of p-i-n detector devices based on hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H). This investigation will be performed by mean of high-resolution photoemission, soft X-Ray absorption and atomic force microscopy. Due to dangling bonds, the amorphous silicon is a highly defective material. However, by hydrogenation it is possible to reduce the density of the defect by several orders of magnitude, using hydrogenation and this will allow its usage in radiation detector devices. The investigation of the damage induced by exposure to high energy irradiation and its microscopic origin is fundamental since the amount of defects determine the electronic properties of the a-Si:H. The comparison of the spectroscopic results on bare and irradiated samples shows an increased degree of disorder and a strong reduction of the Si-H bonds after irradiation. After annealing we observe a partial recovering of the Si-H bonds, reducing the disorder in the Si (possibly due to the lowering of the radiation-induced dangling bonds). Moreover, effects in the uppermost coating are also observed by spectroscopies.
Vertical and In-Plane Electronic Transport of Graphene Nanoribbon/Nanotube Heterostructures
Authors: Felix Antonio Bernardo , Pacheco Monica , Orellana Pedro , Latgé Andrea
Published: October 2022

All-carbon systems have proven to present interesting transport properties and are often used in electronic devices. Motivated by recent resonant responses measured on graphene/fullerene junction, we propose coupled nanoribbons/carbon-nanotube heterostructures for use as charge filters and to allow tuned transport. These hybrid systems are engineered as a four-terminal device, and we explore multiple combinations of source and collector leads. The armchair-edge configuration results in midgap states when the transport is carried through top/bottom terminals. Such states are robust against the lack of perfect order on the tube and are revealed as sharp steps in the characteristic current curves when a bias potential is turned on. The zigzag-edge systems exhibit differential negative resistance, with features determined by the details of the hybrid structures.
One-Step Synergistic Treatment Approach for High Performance Amorphous InGaZnO Thin-Film Transistors Fabricated at Room Temperature
Authors: Wang Chunlan , Li Yuqing , Jin Yebo , Guo Gangying , Song Yongle , Huang Hao , He Han , Wang Aolin
Published: October 2022

Amorphous InGaZnO (a-InGaZnO) is currently the most prominent oxide semiconductor complement to low-temperature polysilicon for thin-film transistor (TFT) applications in next-generation displays. However, balancing the transmission performance and low-temperature deposition is the primary obstacle in the application of a-InGaZnO TFTs in the field of ultra-high resolution optoelectronic display. Here, we report that a-InGaZnO:O TFT prepared at room temperature has high transport performance, manipulating oxygen vacancy (VO) defects through an oxygen-doped a-InGaZnO framework. The main electrical properties of a-InGaZnO:O TFTs included high field-effect mobility (µFE) of 28 cm2/V s, a threshold voltage (Vth) of 0.9 V, a subthreshold swing (SS) of 0.9 V/dec, and a current switching ratio (Ion/Ioff) of 107; significant improvements over a-InGaZnO TFTs without oxygen plasma. A possible reason for this is that appropriate oxygen plasma treatment and room temperature preparation technology jointly play a role in improving the electrical performance of a-InGaZnO TFTs, which could not only increase carrier concentration, but also reduce the channel-layer surface defects and interface trap density of a-InGaZnO TFTs. These provides a powerful way to synergistically boost the transport performance of oxide TFTs fabricated at room temperature.
Special Issue “ALD Technique for Functional Coatings of Nanostructured Materials”
Authors: Fernández Javier Garcia , Martínez Victor Vega , de la Prida Pidal Victor Manuel
Published: October 2022

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is a vapor-phase technique that consists of the alternation of separated self-limiting surface reactions, which enable film thickness to be accurately controlled at the angstrom level, based on the former atomic layer epitaxy method [...]
Extraordinary Characteristics of One-Dimensional PT-Symmetric Ring Optical Waveguide Networks Composed of Adjustable Length Ratio Waveguides
Authors: Liang Xian , Yang Xiangbo , Ma Jihui , Huang Mengli , Deng Dongmei , Liu Hongzhan , Wei Zhongchao
Published: October 2022

A novel one-dimensional parity-time-symmetric periodic ring optical waveguide network (1D PTSPROWN) is constructed using magnesium fluoride (MgF2), by adjusting the length ratio of gain and loss materials in PT-symmetric waveguide and ordinary dielectric material, and by optimizing the program to search for the extremum spontaneous PT-symmetric breaking points. The ultra-strong transmission, reflection, and photonic location are noticed in the proposed 1DPTSPROWN as compared with the other PT-symmetric optical waveguide networks. The maximum and minimum reached 1018 and 10−15, respectively, which is more than 6 orders of magnitude greater and 3 orders of magnitude smaller than the best results reported so far. The ultra-strong transmission and reflection peaks, ultra-weak transmission, and reflection valleys generated by electromagnetic waves in this network were found to have interesting resonance and anti-resonance effects. Furthermore, frequency of periodic cycles and violet or redshift laws were discovered in the 1D PTSPROWN of fixed length ratio of gain and loss material in the PT-symmetric waveguide by adjusting the ratio of the upper and lower arm lengths of waveguides. The proposed optical waveguide network might have potential application in the design of CPA lasers, high-efficiency optical accumulators, and several other devices.
In(Ga)N 3D Growth on GaN-Buffered On-Axis and Off-Axis (0001) Sapphire Substrates by MOCVD
Authors: Rosová Alica , Dobročka Edmund , Eliáš Peter , Hasenöhrl Stanislav , Kučera Michal , Gucmann Filip , Kuzmík Ján
Published: October 2022

In(Ga)N epitaxial layers were grown on on-axis and off-axis (0001) sapphire substrates with an about 1100 nm-thick GaN buffer layer stack using organometallic chemical vapor deposition at 600 °C. The In(Ga)N layers consisted of a thin (~10–25 nm) continuous layer of small conical pyramids in which large conical pyramids with an approximate height of 50–80 nm were randomly distributed. The large pyramids were grown above the edge-type dislocations which originated in the GaN buffer; the dislocations did not penetrate the large, isolated pyramids. The large pyramids were well crystallized and relaxed with a small quantity of defects, such as dislocations, preferentially located at the contact zones of adjacent pyramids. The low temperature (6.5 K) photoluminescence spectra showed one clear maximum at 853 meV with a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 75 meV and 859 meV with a FWHM of 80 meV for the off-axis and on-axis samples, respectively.
Hierarchical Porous Heteroatoms—Co-Doped Activated Carbon Synthesized from Coconut Shell and Its Application for Supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Rui , Wang Jing-Xuan , Yang Wein-Duo
Published: October 2022

Coconut husk biomass waste was used as the carbon precursor to develop a simple and economical process for the preparation of hierarchical porous activated carbon, and the electrochemical properties of the electrode material were explored. The important process variables of carbonization, the weight ratios of the coconut shell/KOH, the amount of source dopant, and the carbonization temperature were investigated in order to reveal the influence of the as-obtained microporous/mesoporous/macroporous hierarchical porous carbon materials on the powder properties. Using a BET specific surface area analyzer, Raman analysis, XPS and SEM, surface morphology, pore distribution and specific surface area of the hierarchical porous carbon materials are discussed. The results show that the as-prepared N-, S- and O-heteroatom-co-doped activated carbon electrode was manufactured at 700 °C for electrochemical characteristics. The electrochemical behavior has the characteristics of pseudo-capacitance, and could reach 186 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 when measured by the galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) test. After 7000 cycles of the charge–discharge test, the initial capacitance value retention rate was 95.6%. It is predicted that capacitor materials made when using coconut shell as a carbon source will have better energy storage performance than traditional carbon supercapacitors.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation on Thermal Performance of Al/Al2O3/SWCNT Nanocoolants for Turning Operations
Authors: Joshi Vedant , Shrikhande Shardul , Harish R. , Giridharan A. , Mohan R.
Published: October 2022

The objective of this study is to numerically investigate the thermal performance of cutting fluids dispersed with nanoparticles for effective heat removal during turning operations. The simulations are performed using Ansys Fluent software, and the problem is modelled as a three-dimensional turbulent incompressible single-phase flow. The computational domain consists of a heated cutting tool and work piece, and nanocoolants are sprayed from a nozzle located above the machining zone. The nanocoolants are prepared by mixing mineral oil with nanoparticles of Al2O3 (Aluminium Oxide), Al (Aluminium) and SWCNT (Single Walled Carbon Nanotube). The heat transfer performances of different nanocoolants are compared by varying the nanoparticle volume fraction (φ) and coolant velocity (Uc) in the range of 2% ≤ φ ≤ 8% and 1 m/s ≤ Uc ≤ 15 m/s, respectively. The results indicated a drastic drop in the cutting tool temperature with an increase in the volume fraction of dispersed nanoparticles and coolant velocity. The increase in volume fraction decreases the average cutting tool temperature by 25.65% and also enhances the average heat transfer rate by 25.43%. It is additionally observed that SWCNT nanocoolants exhibited a superior thermal performance and heat removal rate compared with Al and Al2O3 nanocoolants. The analysed numerical results are validated and are in good accordance with the benchmark results validated from literature.
Measurement of Slips at Contact Interfaces Using a Self-Powered Sensor Based on Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Zhao Wangjia , Qin Wenjie , Ba Mingsen , Sun Yu
Published: October 2022

The accumulation of tangential small slips at contact interfaces may occur in mechanical assemblies when subjected to cyclic loadings, and cause failure of parts. However, the slip is difficult to measure directly. In this paper, a self-powered displacement sensor based on triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is fabricated, which is used to measure the microslip of the specimen in the designed test bench. When the specimen slips under the cyclic tangential load with a frequency of 10 Hz, the resulted average slip displacement of the specimen under a single load cycle is 9.01 μm, which is measured by the Keithley DAQ 6510 multimeter (Tektronix, Shanghai, China). This value is close to that measured by the Keithley 6514 electrometer. In addition, adding a BaTiO3 thin film with a thickness of 100 nm between the Kapton triboelectric layer and the Cu electrode, the output voltage of the sensor is increased by 51.5%. Thus, the sensitivity of the self-powered sensor is improved effectively.
Hollow TiO2 Nanoparticles Capped with Polarizability-Tunable Conducting Polymers for Improved Electrorheological Activity
Authors: Lee Seungae , Noh Jungchul , Jekal Suk , Kim Jiwon , Oh Won-Chun , Sim Hyung-Sub , Choi Hyoung-Jin , Yi Hyeonseok , Yoon Chang-Min
Published: October 2022

Hollow TiO2 nanoparticles (HNPs) capped with conducting polymers, such as polythiophene (PT), polypyrrole (PPy), and polyaniline (PANI), have been studied to be used as polarizability-tunable electrorheological (ER) fluids. The hollow shape of TiO2 nanoparticles, achieved by the removal of the SiO2 template, offers colloidal dispersion stability in silicone oil owing to the high number density. Conducting polymer shells, introduced on the nanoparticle surface using vapor deposition polymerization method, improve the yield stress of the corresponding ER fluids in the order of PANI < PPy < PT. PT-HNPs exhibited the highest yield stress of ca. 94.2 Pa, which is 5.0-, 1.5-, and 9.6-times higher than that of PANI-, PPy-, and bare HNPs, respectively. The improved ER response upon tuning with polymer shells is attributed to the space charge contribution arising from the movement of the charge carriers trapped by the heterogeneous interface. The ER response of studied ER fluids is consistent with the corresponding polarizability results as indicated by the permittivity and electrophoretic mobility measurements. In conclusion, the synergistic effect of hollow nanostructures and conducting polymer capping effectively enhanced the ER performance.
High-Efficiency Ion Enrichment inside Ultra-Short Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Qiang Yu , Wang Xueliang , Ying Zhemian , Zhou Yuying , Liu Renduo , Gao Siyan , Yan Long
Published: October 2022

The ion-enrichment inside carbon nanotubes (CNTs) offers the possibility of applications in water purification, ion batteries, memory devices, supercapacitors, field emission and functional hybrid nanostructures. However, the low filling capacity of CNTs in salt solutions due to end caps and blockages remains a barrier to the practical use of such applications. In this study, we fabricated ultra-short CNTs that were free from end caps and blockages using ball milling and acid pickling. We then compared their ion-enrichment capacity with that of long CNTs. The results showed that the ion-enrichment capacity of ultra-short CNTs was much higher than that of long CNTs. Furthermore, a broad range of ions could be enriched in the ultra-short CNTs including alkali-metal ions (e.g., K+), alkaline-earth-metal ions (e.g., Ca2+) and heavy-metal ions (e.g., Pb2+). The ultra-short CNTs were much more unobstructed than the raw long CNTs, which was due to the increased orifice number per unit mass of CNTs and the decreased difficulty in removing the blockages in the middle section inside the CNTs. Under the hydrated-cation–π interactions, the ultra-short CNTs with few end caps and blockages could highly efficiently enrich ions.
Hydrogen Stabilization and Activation of Dry-Quenched Coke for High-Rate-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Qin Decai , Huang Fei , Zhu Guoyin , Wang Lei
Published: October 2022

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have rapidly come to dominate the market owing to their high power and energy densities. However, several factors have considerably limited their widespread commercial application, including high cost, poor high-rate performance, and complex synthetic conditions. Herein, we use earth-abundant and low-cost dry-quenched coke (DQC) to prepare low-crystalline carbon as anode material for LIBs and tailor the carbon skeleton via a facile green and sustainable hydrogen treatment. In particular, DQC is initially pyrolyzed at 1000 °C, followed by hydrogen treatment at 600 °C to obtain C−1000 H2−600. The resultant C−1000 H2−600 possesses abundant active defect sites and oxygen functional groups, endowing it with high-rate capabilities (C−1000 H2−600 vs. commercial graphite: 223.98 vs. 198.5 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 with a capacity retention of about 72.79% vs. 58.05%, 196.97 vs. 109.1 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1 for 64.01% vs. 31.91%), and a stable cycling life (205.5 mAh g−1 for 1000 cycles at 2 A g−1) for LIBs. This proves that as a simple moderator, hydrogen effectively tailors the microstructure and surface-active sites of carbon materials and transforms low-cost DQC into high-value advanced carbon anodes by a green and sustainable route to improve the lithium storage performance.
Flexible Transient Resistive Memory Based on Biodegradable Composites
Authors: Wang Lu , Zhang Yukai , Zhang Peng , Wen Dianzhong
Published: October 2022

Physical transient electronics have attracted more attention as the basis for building green electronics and biomedical devices. However, there are difficulties in selecting materials for the fabricated devices to take into account both biodegradability and high performance. In this paper, a physically transient resistive random-access memory (RRAM) device was fabricated by using egg protein and graphene quantum dot composites as active layers. The sandwich structure composed of Al/EA:GQD/ITO shows a good write-once-multiple-read memory characteristic, and the introduced GQD improves the switching current ratio of the device. By using the sensitivity of GQDs to ultraviolet light, the logic operation of the “OR gate” is completed. Furthermore, the device exhibits a physical transient behavior and good biodegradability due to the dissolution behavior in deionized water. These results suggest that the device is a favorable candidate for the construction of memory elements for transient electronic systems.
Anti-Inflammatory Nanocarriers Based on SWCNTs and Bioactive Molecules of Oregano: An In Silico Study
Authors: Díaz-Cervantes Erik , Monjaraz-Rodríguez Alejandra , Aguilera-Granja Faustino
Published: October 2022

We studied two main bioactive molecules of oregano, carvacrol and thymol, in the present work. These bioactive conformers are linked to single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) and so-called functionalized SWCNT (f-SWCNT) to find their application as anti-inflammatory drugs. We use the multiscale methods and the density functional theory (DFT) of formalism to achieve this aim. We have proposed two nanocarriers based on a finite size model of a metallic single wall carbon nanotube linked to carvacrol and thymol (with a size around 2.74 nm): the main bioactives present in oregano. The results show that the proposed molecules, Carva-SWCNT-Gluc and Thymol-SWCNT-Gluc, can be synthesized with the exposed condensation reaction; with an exergonic and spontaneous behavior, Gibbs free energies of the reaction are −1.75 eV and −1.81 eV, respectively. The studied molecules are subjected to an electronic characterization, considering the global descriptors based on the conceptual DFT formalism. Moreover, the results show that the studied molecules can present a possible biocompatibility due to the higher polarization of the molecule and the increase in apparent solubility. Finally, the interaction between the studied nanodevices (Carva-SWCNT-Gluc and Thymol-SWCNT-Gluc) with cancer and anti-inflammatory targets shows that the hydrogen bond and electrostatic interactions play a crucial role in the ligand–target interaction. The proposed f-SWCNT presents higher potentiality as a carrier vector nanodevice since it can deliver the oregano bioactives on the studied targets, promoting the putative apoptosis of neoplastic cells and simultaneously regulating the inflammatory process.
Overview of Neuroglia Activation, Chronic Neuroinflammation, Remodeling, and Impaired Cognition Due to Perivascular Adipose Tissue-Derived Extracellular Vesicle Exosomes in Obesity and Diabetes
Authors: Hayden Melvin R.
Published: October 2022

Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) with small exosome(s) (PVAT-dEVexos) from the descending aorta are capable of entering capillaries and systemic circulation. These PVAT-dEVexos are delivered to the central nervous system (CNS) in preclinical, obese, insulin and leptin resistant, diabetic, db/db mouse models and humans with T2DM. Once within the CNS, these exosomes are capable of traversing the blood–brain barrier and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier resulting in activation of the neuroglia microglia cell(s) (aMGCs) and the formation of reactive astrocytes (rACs). The chronic peripheral inflammation in the PVAT via crown-like structures consists of activated macrophages and mast cells, which harbor peripheral adipokines, cytokines, and chemokines (pCC) in addition to the EV exosomes. These pCC are transported to the systemic circulation where they may act synergistically with the PVAT-dEVexos to amplify the activation of neuroglia and result in chronic neuroinflammation. Once activated, the MGCs and ACs will contribute to even greater neuroinflammation via central nervous cytokines/chemokines (cnsCC). Activated neuroglia results in an increase of cnsCC and the creation of a vicious cycle of ongoing chronic neuroinflammation and increased redox stress. The increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) involves the reactive species interactome that not only include reactive oxygen but also reactive nitrogen and sulfur species wherein a vicious cycle of ROS begetting inflammation and inflammation begetting ROS develops. Thus, the CNS perceives peripheral systemic inflammation from the obese PVAT depots as an injury and a response to injury wound healing mechanism develops with activation of neuroglia, cellular remodeling, neurodegeneration, and impaired cognition.
Correction: Conner et al. KiwiC for Vitality: Results of a Placebo-Controlled Trial Testing the Effects of Kiwifruit or Vitamin C Tablets on Vitality in Adults with Low Vitamin C Levels. Nutrients 2020, 12, 2898
Authors: Conner Tamlin S. , Fletcher Benjamin D. , Haszard Jillian J. , Pullar Juliet M. , Spencer Emma , Mainvil Louise A. , Vissers Margreet C. M.
Published: October 2022

In the original publication title [...]
Dietary Phosphorus, Its Sources, and Mortality in Adults on Haemodialysis: The DIET-HD Study
Authors: Su Guobin , Saglimbene Valeria , Wong Germaine , Bernier-Jean Amélie , Carrero Juan Jesus , Natale Patrizia , Ruospo Marinella , Hegbrant Jorgen , Craig Jonathan C. , Strippoli Giovanni F. M.
Published: October 2022

Dietary phosphorus restrictions are usually recommended for people on haemodialysis, although its impact on patient-relevant outcomes is uncertain. We aimed to evaluate the association between total phosphorus intake and its sources with mortality in haemodialysis. Phosphorus intake was ascertained within the DIET-HD study in 8110 adults on haemodialysis. Adjusted Cox regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the association between the total and source-specific phosphorus (plant-, animal-, or processed and other sources) with mortality. During a median 3.8 years of follow-up, there were 2953 deaths, 1160 cardiovascular-related. The median phosphorus intake was 1388 mg/day. Every standard deviation (SD) (896 mg/day) increase in total phosphorus was associated with higher all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR), 1.16; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 1.06–1.26] and cardiovascular mortality (HR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.03–1.36). Every SD (17%) increase in the proportion of phosphorus from plant sources was associated with lower all-cause mortality (HR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.90–0.99). Every SD (9%) increase in the proportion of phosphorus from the processed and other sources was associated with higher all-cause mortality (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.02–1.10). A higher total phosphorus intake was associated with increased all-cause and cardiovascular death. This association is driven largely by the phosphorus intake from processed food. Plant based phosphorus was associated with lower all-cause mortality.
Food Fortification of Instant Pulse Porridge Powder with Improved Iron and Zinc Bioaccessibility Using Roselle Calyx
Authors: Subedi Sandhya , Suttisansanee Uthaiwan , Kettawan Aikkarach , Chupeerach Chaowanee , Khemthong Chanakan , Thangsiri Sirinapa , On-nom Nattira
Published: October 2022

Undernutrition and mineral deficiencies negatively impact both the health and academic performance of school children, while diets high in phytic acid and some phenolics inhibit the absorption of minerals such as iron and zinc. This study developed instant porridge powders rich in iron and zinc using pregelatinized chickpea flour (PCPF) and pregelatinized foxtail millet flour (PFMF) and assessed the potential of utilizing roselle calyx powder (RCP) as a source of organic acids to enhance its iron and zinc bioaccessibility. Physical properties, nutrients, mineral inhibitors and in vitro iron and zinc bioaccessibility of different proportions of PCPF, PFMF and RCP in instant porridge powders were evaluated. Three instant porridge powder formulations including instant chickpea powder (ICP) using PCPF, instant composite flour (ICF) using PCPF and PFMF and instant pulse porridge powder (IPP) using PCPF, PFMF and RCP were developed. Results show that all instant porridge powders were accepted by sensory evaluation, while different ingredients impacted color, consistency and the viscosity index. Addition of RCP improved the bioaccessibility of iron (1.3–1.6-fold) and zinc (1.3–1.9-fold). A 70 g serving of these instant porridge powders substantially contributed to daily protein, iron and zinc requirement for children aged 7–9 years. These porridge powders hold potential to serve as school meals for young children in low-to-middle income countries.