bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The mutL Gene as a Genome-Wide Taxonomic Marker for High Resolution Discrimination of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Its Closely Related Taxa
Authors: Huang Chien-Hsun , Chen Chih-Chieh , Lin Yu-Chun , Chen Chia-Hsuan , Lee Ai-Yun , Liou Jong-Shian , Gu Chun-Tao , Huang Lina
Published: July 2021

The current taxonomy of the Lactiplantibacillus plantarum group comprises of 17 closely related species that are indistinguishable from each other by using commonly used 16S rRNA gene sequencing. In this study, a whole-genome-based analysis was carried out for exploring the highly distinguished target genes whose interspecific sequence identity is significantly less than those of 16S rRNA or conventional housekeeping genes. In silico analyses of 774 core genes by the cano-wgMLST_BacCompare analytics platform indicated that csbB, morA, murI, mutL, ntpJ, rutB, trmK, ydaF, and yhhX genes were the most promising candidates. Subsequently, the mutL gene was selected, and the discrimination power was further evaluated using Sanger sequencing. Among the type strains, mutL exhibited a clearly superior sequence identity (61.6–85.6%; average: 66.6%) to the 16S rRNA gene (96.7–100%; average: 98.4%) and the conventional phylogenetic marker genes (e.g., dnaJ, dnaK, pheS, recA, and rpoA), respectively, which could be used to separat tested strains into various species clusters. Consequently, species-specific primers were developed for fast and accurate identification of L. pentosus, L. argentoratensis, L. plantarum, and L. paraplantarum. During this study, one strain (BCRC 06B0048, L. pentosus) exhibited not only relatively low mutL sequence identities (97.0%) but also a low digital DNA–DNA hybridization value (78.1%) with the type strain DSM 20314T, signifying that it exhibits potential for reclassification as a novel subspecies. Our data demonstrate that mutL can be a genome-wide target for identifying and classifying the L. plantarum group species and for differentiating novel taxa from known species.
In Situ X-ray Diffraction at High Temperatures: Formation of Ca2SiO4 and Ternesite in Recycled Autoclaved Aerated Concrete
Authors: Ullrich Angela , Garbev Krassimir , Bergfeldt Britta
Published: July 2021

This study provides an insight into possible recycling processes for autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) at low temperatures (<1000 °C). Belite binders were synthesized from wastes of AAC by the addition of CaCO3 and adaption of the molar CaO/SiO2 (C/S ratio) in the range of 2 to 2.5. An in situ XRD study performed during heating up to 1000 °C and subsequent quenching to room temperature evidenced the formation of ternesite besides C2S in sulfate-containing systems. Several factors influencing the reaction kinetics and the evolution of the phase composition were investigated thoroughly. Increased sulfate content and dwelling time during heating increase the ternesite content and promote the formation of highly crystalline α’H-C2S. The C/S-ratio of the starting materials has to be adjusted to the sulfate content in order to prevent the formation of ternesite at the expense of C2S. Ternesite remains stable during quenching to room temperature or even increases in amount, except in cases of very low cooling rates or high residual quartz contents (C/S-ratio ≤ 2). Temperature and range of α’H-C2S to β-C2S phase transition on quenching strongly depend on the cooling rate. The onset temperature for β-C2S formation varies between 540 °C (slow quench) and 450 °C (fast quench). Thermal expansion coefficients of ternesite are calculated showing similarity with C2S. The incorporation of CaSO4 modules in the structure switches the direction of maximum compression.
Sr-Nd-Pb-Ca Isotopes of Holocene Basalts from Jingpohu, NE China: Implications for the Origin of Their Enriched Mantle Signatures
Authors: Wei Feixiang , Pan Bo , Xu Jiandong
Published: July 2021

The geochemistry on Holocene lavas from the Jingpohu volcanic field in NE China are compared with other Cenozoic lavas from across the back-arc rift of NE China, in order to constrain their enriched mantle sources. Holocene lavas within Jingpohu volcanic field comprise two separate “Crater Forest” (CF) and “Frog Pool” (FP) volcanic areas. FP lavas have lower MgO, CaO, and heavy rare earth elements and higher Al2O3, Na2O, K2O, and large-ion lithophile elements than CF lavas. Yet, both CF and FP lavas share similar isotopic signatures, with depleted Sr and Nd isotopes (87Sr/86Sr = 0.703915–0.704556, 143Nd/144Nd = 0.512656–0.512849) and unradiogenic Pb isotopes (208Pb/204Pb = 37.79–38.06, 207Pb/204Pb = 15.45–15.54, 206Pb/204Pb = 17.49–18.15), similar to oceanic island basalts. An important new constraint for the Jingpohu lavas lies in their Ca isotopes of δ44/40Ca from 0.63‰ to 0.77‰, which are lower than that of the bulk silicate earth (0.94 ± 0.05‰). By comparing the isotopic signatures of sodic lavas with that of the potassic lavas across NE China, we propose a three-component mixing model as the source for the sodic lavas. In consistence with geophysical results, we propose that subducting Pacific plate induces asthenospheric mantle upwelling of an upper depleted mantle (DM), including subducted ancient sediments (EM I), which partially melted upon ascent. These primary melts further interacted with the lithospheric mantle (EM II), before differentiating within crustal magma chambers and erupting.
Measurement of Gem Colour Using a Computer Vision System: A Case Study with Jadeite-Jade
Authors: Zhang Sufei , Guo Ying
Published: July 2021

This paper introduces computer vision systems (CVSs), which provides a new method to measure gem colour, and compares CVS and colourimeter (CM) measurements of jadeite-jade colour in the CIELAB space. The feasibility of using CVS for jadeite-jade colour measurement was verified by an expert group test and a reasonable regression model in an experiment involving 111 samples covering almost all jadeite-jade colours. In the expert group test, more than 93.33% of CVS images are considered to have high similarities with real objects. Comparing L*, a*, b*, C*, h, and ∆E* (greater than 10) from CVS and CM tests indicate that significant visual differences exist between the measured colours. For a*, b*, and h, the R2 of the regression model for CVS and CM was 90.2% or more. CVS readings can be used to predict the colour value measured by CM, which means that CVS technology can become a practical tool to detect the colour of jadeite-jade.
REE Tetrad Effect and Sr-Nd Isotope Systematics of A-Type Pirrit Hills Granite from West Antarctica
Authors: Lee Hyo Min , Lee Seung-Gu , Kim Hyeoncheol , Lee Jong Ik , Lee Mi Jung
Published: July 2021

The Pirrit Hills are located in the Ellsworth–Whitmore Mountains of West Antarctica. The Pirrit Hills granite exhibits significant negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.01~0.25) and a REE tetrad effect indicating intensive magmatic differentiation. Whole-rock Rb-Sr and Sm-Nd geochronologic analysis of the Pirrit Hills granite gave respective ages of 172.8 ± 2.4 Ma with initial 87Sr/86Sr = 0.7065 ± 0.0087 Ma and 169 ± 12 Ma with initial 144Nd/143Nd = 0.512207 ± 0.000017. The isotopic ratio data indicate that the Pirrit Hills granite formed by the remelting of Mesoproterozoic mantle-derived crustal materials. Both chondrite-normalized REE patterns and Sr-Nd isotopic data indicate that the Pirrit Hills granite has geochemical features of chondrite-normalized REE patterns indicating that REE tetrad effects and negative Eu anomalies in the highly fractionated granites were produced from magmatic differentiation under the magmatic-hydrothermal transition system.
Organic and Isotopic Geochemistry of Evaporites and Shales of the Santana Group (Araripe Basin, Brazil): Clues on the Evolution of Depositional Systems and Global Correlation during the Lower Cretaceous
Authors: Pontes Naedja Vasconcelos , das Chagas Daniel Bezerra , de Souza Ana Clara Braga , do Nascimento Junior Daniel Rodrigues , da Silva Filho Wellington Ferreira , Capilla Ramsés , Garcia Antônio Jorge Vasconcellos , de Araújo Nogueira Neto José
Published: July 2021

Even being the more studied of the interior basins of Northeast Brazil, the Araripe Basin still lacks research in organic geochemistry designed to support interpretations of depositional systems and conditions of formation. This work aims to investigate the organic behavior of evaporites and shales from the Santana Group (Lower Cretaceous), as well as discuss their role in the evolution of its depositional systems. A total of 23 samples, 17 shales and six evaporites, were collected in outcrops and quarries. Analyses of Total Organic Carbon (TOC), Total Sulfur (TS), Rock Eval pyrolysis, and the δ34S isotope ratio were performed. The TOC results revealed high organic content for seven intervals, of which only five had high TS content. From the Rock Eval pyrolysis, dominance of the Type I kerogen was verified, thus corresponding to the best type of organic matter (mainly algal) for the generation of liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons. The Lower Cretaceous (probably Aptian) response to the progressive evolution in redox conditions is linked to a remarked Oceanic Anoxic Event (OAE-1a). The TOC/TS ratio suggests variable palaeosalinity, indicating most of the shales were formed under brackish waters with saline influence, yet tending to increase the salinity upwards where hypersaline conditions dominate in the Ipubi Formation. The isotope data also suggest the occurrence of marine ingressions in the depositional systems even prior to the well-documented event of the Romualdo Formation.
Selective Separation of Chalcopyrite from Galena Using a Green Reagent Scheme
Authors: Zhao Kaile , Ma Chao , Gu Guohua , Gao Zhiyong
Published: July 2021

The study of the depression effect of non-toxic depressants on the flotation separation of chalcopyrite from galena is of great importance for both industrial applications and theoretical research. The mixed depressant (DFinal) of four common inhibitors—sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium silicate, sodium sulfite, and zinc sulfate—exhibited high selectivity during the separation of chalcopyrite from galena. Flotation tests on an industrial copper–lead bulk concentrate showed that using this depressant mixture can achieve highly efficient separation of chalcopyrite from galena at the natural pH of the pulp. Copper and lead concentrates were produced at grades of 21.88% (Cu) and 75.53% (Pb), with recoveries of 89.07% (Cu) and 98.26% (Pb). This showed a similar performance of DFinal with dichromate, which is a depressant that is widely used in industry, but without the environmental risks or the need for pH control. Zeta potential and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) results showed that interaction between the surface of the chalcopyrite and the mixed depressant was prevented by pre-treatment with a composite thiophosphate collector (CSU11), while the mixed depressant could expel/replace the composite thiophosphate on the surface of galena by chemical adsorption, depressing its flotation. This is the reason why this non-toxic depressant achieved the selective depression of galena from chalcopyrite, leading to efficient flotation separation.
Analysis of the Effect of Dry Magnetic Separation on the Process of Ferruginous Quartzites Disintegration
Authors: Shibaeva Darya Nikolaevna , Kompanchenko Alena Arkad’evna , Tereschenko Sergey Vasil’evich
Published: July 2021

The paper considers the results of the application of dry magnetic separation on samples of ferruginous quartzites of the Kostomuksha ore field, represented by refractory ore, free-milling ore, and their mixture. The assessment of the influence of the ore texture on the technological parameters of dry magnetic separation indicates their insignificant changes: the yield of the non-magnetic product varies from 12.4 to 13.5%, and the Fetotal content in the magnetic product increases by 1.11–1.14 times. A decrease of at least 15% in the number of harmful impurities was found: S by 16.2–17.3%, SiO2 by 15.5–21.1%, and Al2O3 by 39.1–48.4%. The authors have performed a comparative assessment of the granularity of the initial ore and the magnetic product with the measurement of energy consumption, as well as an analysis of the magnetite liberation on particle sizes of less than 2 mm. It was found that due to the release of a non-magnetic product in the amount of 12.3–14.5%, represented by non-magnetite or weakly mineralized rock varieties, energy consumption for the crushing process is reduced by at least 5%. The mineral liberation assessment showed that mainly free magnetite is contained in the −0.4 mm fineness class. It was found that in the magnetic separation product of the refractory ore sample, the amount of liberated magnetite in the size class −1 + 0 mm increases by 12.1% compared to the initial ore sample. For the free-milling ore sample, the opposite trend is observed: a decrease in the amount of free magnetite by 30.9% in the magnetic product. Analysis of the magnetite liberation in the mixture indicates deterioration in the results obtained during the separate crushing of refractory and free-milling ore and a decrease in the amount of liberated magnetite in the magnetic product by 60% compared to the initial ore.
Transformation of Iodosulfuron-Methyl into Ionic Liquids Enables Elimination of Additional Surfactants in Commercial Formulations of Sulfonylureas
Authors: Stachowiak Witold , Szumski Radosław , Homa Jan , Woźniak-Karczewska Marta , Parus Anna , Strzemiecka Beata , Chrzanowski Łukasz , Niemczak Michał
Published: July 2021

Efficient use of herbicides for plant protection requires the application of auxiliary substances such as surfactants, stabilizers, wetting or anti-foaming agents, and absorption enhancers, which can be more problematic for environment than the herbicides themselves. We hypothesized that the combination of sulfonylurea (iodosulfuron-methyl) anion with inexpensive, commercially available quaternary tetraalkylammonium cations could lead to biologically active ionic liquids (ILs) that could become a convenient and environment-friendly alternative to adjuvants. A simple one-step synthesis allowed for synthesizing iodosulfuron-methyl based ILs with high yields ranging from 88 to 96% as confirmed by UV, FTIR, and NMR. The obtained ILs were found to possess several favorable properties compared to the currently used sodium salt iodosulfuron-methyl, such as adjustable hydrophobicity (octanol-water partition coefficient) and enhanced stability in aqueous solutions, which was supported by molecular calculations showing cation–anion interaction energies. In addition, soil mobility and volatility of ILs were more beneficial compared to the parental herbicide. Herbicidal activity tests toward oil-seed rape and cornflower revealed that ILs comprising at least one alkyl chain in the decyl to octadecyl range had similar or better efficacy compared to the commercial preparation without addition of any adjuvant. Furthermore, results of antimicrobial activity indicated that they were practically harmless or slightly toxic toward model soil microorganisms such as Pseudomonas putida and Bacillus cereus.
Bioactivities of Phenolic Compounds from Kiwifruit and Persimmon
Authors: Kim Young-Mo , Abas Faridah , Park Yong-Seo , Park Yang-Kyun , Ham Kyung-Sik , Kang Seong-Gook , Lubinska-Szczygeł Martyna , Ezra Aviva , Gorinstein Shela
Published: July 2021

Fruit used in the common human diet in general, and kiwifruit and persimmon particularly, displays health properties in the prevention of heart disease. This study describes a combination of bioactivity, multivariate data analyses and fluorescence measurements for the differentiating of kiwifruit and persimmon, their quenching and antioxidant properties. The metabolic differences are shown, as well in the results of bioactivities and antioxidant capacities determined by ABTS, FRAP, CUPRAC and DPPH assays. To complement the bioactivity of these fruits, the quenching properties between extracted polyphenols and human serum proteins were determined by 3D-fluorescence spectroscopy studies. These properties of the extracted polyphenols in interaction with the main serum proteins in the human metabolism (human serum albumin (HSA), α-β-globulin (α-β G) and fibrinogen (Fgn)), showed that kiwifruit was more reactive than persimmon. There was a direct correlation between the quenching properties of the polyphenols of the investigated fruits with serum human proteins, their relative quantification and bioactivity. The results of metabolites and fluorescence quenching show that these fruits possess multiple properties that have a great potential to be used in industry with emphasis on the formulation of functional foods and in the pharmaceutical industry. Based on the quenching properties of human serum proteins with polyphenols and recent reports in vivo on human studies, we hypothesize that HSA, α-β G and Fgn will be predictors of coronary artery disease (CAD).
Unravelling the Phytochemical Composition and the Pharmacological Properties of an Optimized Extract from the Fruit from Prunus mahaleb L.: From Traditional Liqueur Market to the Pharmacy Shelf
Authors: Orlando Giustino , Chiavaroli Annalisa , Adorisio Sabrina , Delfino Domenico V. , Brunetti Luigi , Recinella Lucia , Leone Sheila , Zengin Gokhan , Acquaviva Alessandra , Angelini Paola , Flores Giancarlo Angeles , Venanzoni Roberto , Di Simone Simonetta Cristina , Di Corpo Francesca , Mocan Andrei , Menghini Luigi , Ferrante Claudio
Published: July 2021

Prunus mahaleb L. fruit has long been used in the production of traditional liqueurs. The fruit also displayed scavenging and reducing activity, in vitro. The present study focused on unravelling peripheral and central protective effects, antimicrobial but also anti-COVID-19 properties exerted by the water extract of P. mahaleb. Anti-inflammatory effects were studied in isolated mouse colons exposed to lipopolysaccharide. Neuroprotection, measured as a blunting effect on hydrogen-peroxide-induced dopamine turnover, was investigated in hypothalamic HypoE22 cells. Antimicrobial effects were tested against different Gram+ and Gram- bacterial strains. Whereas anti-COVID-19 activity was studied in lung adenocarcinoma H1299 cells, where the gene expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 was measured after extract treatment. The bacteriostatic effects induced on Gram+ and Gram- strains, together with the inhibition of COX-2, TNFα, HIF1α, and VEGFA in the colon, suggest the potential of P. mahaleb water extract in contrasting the clinical symptoms related to ulcerative colitis. The inhibition of the hydrogen peroxide-induced DOPAC/DA ratio indicates promising neuroprotective effects. Finally, the downregulation of the gene expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in H1299 cells, suggests the potential to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 virus entry in the human host. Overall, the results support the valorization of the local cultivation of P. mahaleb.
Structure-Based Designing, Solvent Less Synthesis of 1,2,3,4-Tetrahydropyrimidine-5-carboxylate Derivatives: A Combined In Vitro and In Silico Screening Approach
Authors: Arshad Uzma , Ahmed Sibtain , Shafiq Nusrat , Ahmad Zaheer , Hassan Aqsa , Akhtar Naseem , Parveen Shagufta , Mehmood Tahir
Published: July 2021

Objective: In this study, small molecules possessing tetrahydropyrimidine derivatives have been synthesized having halogenated benzyl derivatives and carboxylate linkage. As previously reported, FDA approved halogenated pyrimidine derivatives prompted us to synthesize novel compounds in order to evaluate their biological potential. Methodology: Eight pyrimidine derivatives have been synthesized from ethyl acetoacetate, secondary amine, aromatic benzaldehyde by adding catalytic amount of CuCl2·2H2O via solvent less Grindstone multicomponent reagent method. Molecular structure reactivity and virtual screening were performed to check their biological efficacy as an anti-oxidant, anti-cancer and anti-diabetic agent. These studies were supported by in vitro analysis and QSAR studies. Results: After combined experimental and virtual screening 5c, 5g and 5e could serve as lead compounds, having low IC50 and high binding affinity.
Enhancing the Decolorization of Methylene Blue Using a Low-Cost Super-Absorbent Aided by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Abdullah Nor Hakimin , Mohamed Mazlan , Mohd Shohaimi Norshahidatul Akmar , Mat Lazim Azwan , Abdul Halim Ahmad Zamani , Mohd Shukri Nurasmat , Abdul Razab Mohammad Khairul Azhar
Published: July 2021

The presence of organic dyes from industrial wastewater can cause pollution and exacerbate environmental problems; therefore, in the present work, activated carbon was synthesized from locally available oil palm trunk (OPT) biomass as a low-cost adsorbent to remove synthetic dye from aqueous media. The physical properties of the synthesized oil palm trunk activated carbon (OPTAC) were analyzed by SEM, FTIR-ATR, and XRD. The concurrent effects of the process variables (adsorbent dosage (g), methylene blue (MB) concentration (mg/L), and contact time (h)) on the MB removal percentage from aqueous solution were studied using a three-factor three-level Box–Behnken design (BBD) of response surface methodology (RSM), followed by the optimization of MB adsorption using OPTAC as the adsorbent. Based on the results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) for the three parameters considered, adsorbent dosage (X1) is the most crucial parameter, with an F-value of 1857.43, followed by MB concentration (X2) and contact time (X3) with the F-values of 95.60 and 29.48, respectively. Furthermore, the highest MB removal efficiency of 97.9% was achieved at the optimum X1, X2, and X3 of 1.5 g, 200 mg/L, and 2 h, respectively.
Effect of Growth Temperature on the Characteristics of CsPbI3-Quantum Dots Doped Perovskite Film
Authors: Lien Shui-Yang , Chen Yu-Hao , Chen Wen-Ray , Liu Chuan-Hsi , Huang Chien-Jung
Published: July 2021

In this study, adding CsPbI3 quantum dots to organic perovskite methylamine lead triiodide (CH3NH3PbI3) to form a doped perovskite film filmed by different temperatures was found to effectively reduce the formation of unsaturated metal Pb. Doping a small amount of CsPbI3 quantum dots could enhance thermal stability and improve surface defects. The electron mobility of the doped film was 2.5 times higher than the pristine film. This was a major breakthrough for inorganic quantum dot doped organic perovskite thin films.
Structural Characterization of a Polysaccharide from Gastrodia elata and Its Bioactivity on Gut Microbiota
Authors: Huo Jiangyan , Lei Min , Li Feifei , Hou Jinjun , Zhang Zijia , Long Huali , Zhong Xianchun , Liu Yameng , Xie Cen , Wu Wanying
Published: July 2021

A novel homogeneous polysaccharide named GEP-1 was isolated and purified from Gastrodia elata (G. elata) by hot-water extraction, ethanol precipitation, and membrane separator. GEP-1, which has a molecular weight of 20.1 kDa, contains a polysaccharide framework comprised of only glucose. Methylation and NMR analysis showed that GEP-1 contained 1,3,6-linked-α-Glcp, 1,4-linked-α-Glcp, 1,4-linked-β-Glcp and 1,4,6-linked-α-Glcp. Interestingly, GEP-1 contained citric acid and repeating p-hydroxybenzyl alcohol as one branch. Furthermore, a bioactivity test showed that GEP-1 could significantly promote the growth of Akkermansia muciniphila (A. muciniphila) and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei (L.paracasei) strains. These results implied that GEP-1 might be useful for human by modulating gut microbiota.
Content of Carotenoids, Violaxanthin and Neoxanthin in Leaves of Triticum aestivum Exposed to Persistent Environmental Pollutants
Authors: Opriş Ocsana , Copaciu Florina , Soran Maria Loredana , Niinemets Ülo , Copolovici Lucian
Published: July 2021

Persistent pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, pesticides, musk fragrances, and dyes are frequently detected in different environmental compartments and negatively impact the environment and humans. Understanding the impacts of diffuse environmental pollutants on plants is still limited, especially at realistic environmental concentrations of contaminants. We studied the effects of key representatives of two major classes of environmental pollutants (nine different antibiotics and six different textile dyes) on the leaf carotenoid (violaxanthin and neoxanthin) content in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) using different pollutant concentrations and application times. The wheat plants were watered with solutions of selected environmental pollutants in two different concentrations of 0.5 mg L−1 and 1.5 mg L−1 for one week (0.5 L) and two weeks (1 L). Both categories of pollutants selected for this study negatively influenced the content of violaxanthin and neoxanthin, whereas the textile dyes represented more severe stress to the wheat plants. The results demonstrate that chronic exposure to common diffusively spread environmental contaminants constitutes significant stress to the plants.
Synthesis, Fabrication, and Characterization of Functionalized Polydiacetylene Containing Cellulose Nanofibrous Composites for Colorimetric Sensing of Organophosphate Compounds
Authors: Alam A K M Mashud , Jenks Donovan , Kraus George A. , Xiang Chunhui
Published: July 2021

Organophosphate (OP) compounds, a family of highly hazardous chemical compounds included in nerve agents and pesticides, have been linked to more than 250,000 annual deaths connected to various chronic diseases. However, a solid-state sensing system that is able to be integrated into a clothing system is rare in the literature. This study aims to develop a nanofiber-based solid-state polymeric material as a soft sensor to detect OP compounds present in the environment. Esters of polydiacetylene were synthesized and incorporated into a cellulose acetate nanocomposite fibrous assembly developed with an electrospinning technique, which was then hydrolyzed to generate more hydroxyl groups for OP binding. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Instron® tensile tester, contact angle analyzer, and UV–Vis spectroscopy were employed for characterizations. Upon hydrolysis, polydiacetylene esters in the cellulosic fiber matrix were found unaffected by hydrolysis treatment, which made the composites suitable for OP sensing. Furthermore, the nanofibrous (NF) composites exhibited tensile properties suitable to be used as a textile material. Finally, the NF composites exhibited colorimetric sensing of OP, which is visible to the naked eye. This research is a landmark study toward the development of OP sensing in a protective clothing system.
Ultra-Broadband Refractory All-Metal Metamaterial Selective Absorber for Solar Thermal Energy Conversion
Authors: Qi Buxiong , Chen Wenqiong , Niu Tiaoming , Mei Zhonglei
Published: July 2021

A full-spectrum near-unity solar absorber has attracted substantial attention in recent years, and exhibited broad application prospects in solar thermal energy conversion. In this paper, an all-metal titanium (Ti) pyramid structured metamaterial absorber (MMA) is proposed to achieve broadband absorption from the near-infrared to ultraviolet, exhibiting efficient solar-selective absorption. The simulation results show that the average absorption rate in the wavelength range of 200–2620 nm reached more than 98.68%, and the solar irradiation absorption efficiency in the entire solar spectrum reached 98.27%. The photothermal conversion efficiency (PTCE) reached 95.88% in the entire solar spectrum at a temperature of 700 °C. In addition, the strong and broadband absorption of the MMA are due to the strong absorption of local surface plasmon polariton (LSPP), coupled results of multiple plasmons and the strong loss of the refractory titanium material itself. Additionally, the analysis of the results show that the MMA has wide-angle incidence and polarization insensitivity, and has a great processing accuracy tolerance. This broadband MMA paves the way for selective high-temperature photothermal conversion devices for solar energy harvesting and seawater desalination applications.
Conical Nanotubes Synthesized by Atomic Layer Deposition of Al2O3, TiO2, and SiO2 in Etched Ion-Track Nanochannels
Authors: Ulrich Nils , Spende Anne , Burr Loïc , Sobel Nicolas , Schubert Ina , Hess Christian , Trautmann Christina , Toimil-Molares Maria Eugenia
Published: July 2021

Etched ion-track polycarbonate membranes with conical nanochannels of aspect ratios of ~3000 are coated with Al2O3, TiO2, and SiO2 thin films of thicknesses between 10 and 20 nm by atomic layer deposition (ALD). By combining ion-track technology and ALD, the fabrication of two kinds of functional structures with customized surfaces is presented: (i) arrays of free-standing conical nanotubes with controlled geometry and wall thickness, interesting for, e.g., drug delivery and surface wettability regulation, and (ii) single nanochannel membranes with inorganic surfaces and adjustable isoelectric points for nanofluidic applications.
Electrically Conductive Networks from Hybrids of Carbon Nanotubes and Graphene Created by Laser Radiation
Authors: Gerasimenko Alexander Yu. , Kuksin Artem V. , Shaman Yury P. , Kitsyuk Evgeny P. , Fedorova Yulia O. , Sysa Artem V. , Pavlov Alexander A. , Glukhova Olga E.
Published: July 2021

A technology for the formation of electrically conductive nanostructures from single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT), multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), and their hybrids with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on Si substrate has been developed. Under the action of single pulses of laser irradiation, nanowelding of SWCNT and MWCNT nanotubes with graphene sheets was obtained. Dependences of electromagnetic wave absorption by films of short and long nanotubes with subnanometer and nanometer diameters on wavelength are calculated. It was determined from dependences that absorption maxima of various types of nanotubes are in the wavelength region of about 266 nm. It was found that contact between nanotube and graphene was formed in time up to 400 fs. Formation of networks of SWCNT/MWCNT and their hybrids with rGO at threshold energy densities of 0.3/0.5 J/cm2 is shown. With an increase in energy density above the threshold value, formation of amorphous carbon nanoinclusions on the surface of nanotubes was demonstrated. For all films, except the MWCNT film, an increase in defectiveness after laser irradiation was obtained, which is associated with appearance of C–C bonds with neighboring nanotubes or graphene sheets. CNTs played the role of bridges connecting graphene sheets. Laser-synthesized hybrid nanostructures demonstrated the highest hardness compared to pure nanotubes. Maximum hardness (52.7 GPa) was obtained for MWCNT/rGO topology. Regularity of an increase in electrical conductivity of nanostructures after laser irradiation has been established for films made of all nanomaterials. Hybrid structures of nanotubes and graphene sheets have the highest electrical conductivity compared to networks of pure nanotubes. Maximum electrical conductivity was obtained for MWCNT/rGO hybrid structure (~22.6 kS/m). Networks of nanotubes and CNT/rGO hybrids can be used to form strong electrically conductive interconnections in nanoelectronics, as well as to create components for flexible electronics and bioelectronics, including intelligent wearable devices (IWDs).
Carbon Dots as an Emergent Class of Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Ghirardello Mattia , Ramos-Soriano Javier , Galan M. Carmen
Published: July 2021

Antimicrobial resistance is a recognized global challenge. Tools for bacterial detection can combat antimicrobial resistance by facilitating evidence-based antibiotic prescribing, thus avoiding their overprescription, which contributes to the spread of resistance. Unfortunately, traditional culture-based identification methods take at least a day, while emerging alternatives are limited by high cost and a requirement for skilled operators. Moreover, photodynamic inactivation of bacteria promoted by photosensitisers could be considered as one of the most promising strategies in the fight against multidrug resistance pathogens. In this context, carbon dots (CDs) have been identified as a promising class of photosensitiser nanomaterials for the specific detection and inactivation of different bacterial species. CDs possess exceptional and tuneable chemical and photoelectric properties that make them excellent candidates for antibacterial theranostic applications, such as great chemical stability, high water solubility, low toxicity and excellent biocompatibility. In this review, we will summarize the most recent advances on the use of CDs as antimicrobial agents, including the most commonly used methodologies for CD and CD/composites syntheses and their antibacterial properties in both in vitro and in vivo models developed in the last 3 years.
Nano-Biomaterials for Retinal Regeneration
Authors: Sharma Rahul , Sharma Deepti , Hazlett Linda D. , Singh Nikhlesh K.
Published: July 2021

Nanoscience and nanotechnology have revolutionized key areas of environmental sciences, including biological and physical sciences. Nanoscience is useful in interconnecting these sciences to find new hybrid avenues targeted at improving daily life. Pharmaceuticals, regenerative medicine, and stem cell research are among the prominent segments of biological sciences that will be improved by nanostructure innovations. The present review was written to present a comprehensive insight into various emerging nanomaterials, such as nanoparticles, nanowires, hybrid nanostructures, and nanoscaffolds, that have been useful in mice for ocular tissue engineering and regeneration. Furthermore, the current status, future perspectives, and challenges of nanotechnology in tracking cells or nanostructures in the eye and their use in modified regenerative ophthalmology mechanisms have also been proposed and discussed in detail. In the present review, various research findings on the use of nano-biomaterials in retinal regeneration and retinal remediation are presented, and these findings might be useful for future clinical applications.
Active Packaging Based on Coupled Nylon/PE Pouches Filled with Active Nano-Hybrid: Effect on the Shelf Life of Fresh Milk
Authors: Bugatti Valeria , Zuppardi Federica , Viscusi Gianluca , Gorrasi Giuliana
Published: July 2021

The study reports on the preparation and characterization of an active packaging based on pouches composed of a coupled system nylon/polyethylene (PE). The PE layer was filled with and active nano-hybrid of layered double hydroxide (LDH) on which it was anchored salicylate, as antimicrobial molecule. The release of the salicylate anchored to the LDH was compared to the release of the molecule free dispersed into the PE and resulted much slower. It was evaluated the efficiency of the active packaging to inhibit Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella typhimurium, and Campylobacter. Global migration tests on the PE active layer, using ethanol (50% v/v) as food simulant, demonstrated the possibility of such active nanocomposite to be used for food contact being the migration limits in compliance with those imposed from the EU regulation. Fresh milk was packed into the active pouches and pouches with unfilled PE layer, as control. The pH reduction as function of the time, due to the production of lactic acid, resulted much slower in the active packaging. Total bacterial count (TBC) was evaluated on the milk, either packed into the active packaging or the control, up to 50 days of storage at 4 °C. Shelf life of the milk was evaluated using the Gompertz model. It was demonstrated an increasing of the shelf life of milk packaged in active pouches from 6 days up to 10 days.
N-Dopant-Mediated Growth of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles on Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Lee Jin Ah , Lee Won Jun , Lim Joonwon , Kim Sang Ouk
Published: July 2021

Metal oxide nanoparticles supported on heteroatom-doped graphitic surfaces have been pursued for several decades for a wide spectrum of applications. Despite extensive research on functional metal oxide nanoparticle/doped carbon nanomaterial hybrids, the role of the heteroatom dopant in the hybridization process of doped carbon nanomaterials has been overlooked. Here, the direct growth of MnOx and RuOx nanoparticles in nitrogen (N)-doped sites of carbon nanotubes (NCNTs) is presented. The quaternary nitrogen (NQ) sites of CNTs actively participate in the nucleation and growth of the metal nanoparticles. The evenly distributed NQ nucleation sites mediate the generation of uniformly dispersed <10 nm diameter MnOx and RuOx nanoparticles, directly decorated on NCNT surfaces. The electrochemical performance of the resultant hybridized materials was evaluated using cyclic voltammetry. This novel hybridization method using the dopant-mediated nucleation and growth of metal oxides suggests ways that heteroatom dopants can be utilized to optimize the structure, interface and corresponding properties of graphitic carbon-based hybrid materials.
Improved Solvothermal Synthesis of γ-Fe2O3 Magnetic Nanoparticles for SiO2 Coating
Authors: Mahajan Rashmi , Suriyanarayanan Subramanian , Nicholls Ian A.
Published: July 2021

Monodisperse magnetic γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles (MNPs) were prepared by a simple, improved, one-pot solvothermal synthesis using SDS and PEG 6000 as double capping reagents. This double protecting layer afforded better MNP uniformity (Z average 257 ± 11.12 nm, PDI = 0.18) and colloidal stability. Materials were characterized by DLS, SEM, TEM, XPS, and XRD. The use of these MNPs in the synthesis of core–shell structures with uniform and tunable silica coatings was demonstrated, as silica coated MNPs are important for use in a range of applications, including magnetic separation and catalysis and as platforms for templated nanogel synthesis.
Electrochemical Response of Glucose Oxidase Adsorbed on Laser-Induced Graphene
Authors: Pereira Sónia O. , Santos Nuno F. , Carvalho Alexandre F. , Fernandes António J. S. , Costa Florinda M.
Published: July 2021

Carbon-based electrodes have demonstrated great promise as electrochemical transducers in the development of biosensors. More recently, laser-induced graphene (LIG), a graphene derivative, appears as a great candidate due to its superior electron transfer characteristics, high surface area and simplicity in its synthesis. The continuous interest in the development of cost-effective, more stable and reliable biosensors for glucose detection make them the most studied and explored within the academic and industry community. In this work, the electrochemistry of glucose oxidase (GOx) adsorbed on LIG electrodes is studied in detail. In addition to the well-known electroactivity of free flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), the cofactor of GOx, at the expected half-wave potential of −0.490 V vs. Ag/AgCl (1 M KCl), a new well-defined redox pair at 0.155 V is observed and shown to be related to LIG/GOx interaction. A systematic study was undertaken in order to understand the origin of this activity, including scan rate and pH dependence, along with glucose detection tests. Two protons and two electrons are involved in this reaction, which is shown to be sensitive to the concentration of glucose, restraining its origin to the electron transfer from FAD in the active site of GOx to the electrode via direct or mediated by quinone derivatives acting as mediators.
Recent Developments in Rodent Models of High-Fructose Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chan Alvin Man Lung , Ng Angela Min Hwei , Mohd Yunus Mohd Heikal , Idrus Ruszymah Bt Hj , Law Jia Xian , Yazid Muhammad Dain , Chin Kok-Yong , Shamsuddin Sharen Aini , Lokanathan Yogeswaran
Published: July 2021

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is the physiological clustering of hypertension, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. The MetS-related chronic illnesses encompass obesity, the cardiovascular system, renal operation, hepatic function, oncology, and mortality. To perform pre-clinical research, it is imperative that these symptoms be successfully induced and optimized in lower taxonomy. Therefore, novel and future applications for a disease model, if proven valid, can be extrapolated to humans. MetS model establishment is evaluated based on the significance of selected test parameters, paradigm shifts from new discoveries, and the accessibility of the latest technology or advanced methodologies. Ultimately, the outcome of animal studies should be advantageous for human clinical trials and solidify their position in advanced medicine for clinicians to treat and adapt to serious or specific medical situations. Rodents (Rattus norvegicus and Mus musculus) have been ideal models for mammalian studies since the 18th century and have been mapped extensively. This review compiles and compares studies published in the past five years between the multitude of rodent comparative models. The response factors, niche parameters, and replicability of diet protocols are also compiled and analyzed to offer insight into MetS-related disease-specific modelling.
Anti-Obesity and Hypocholesterolemic Actions of Protamine-Derived Peptide RPR (Arg-Pro-Arg) and Protamine in High-Fat Diet-Induced C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Mijiti Maihemuti , Mori Ryosuke , Huang Bingyu , Tsukamoto Kenichiro , Kiriyama Keisuke , Sutoh Keita , Nagaoka Satoshi
Published: July 2021

Dietary protamine can ameliorate hyperlipidemia; however, the protamine-derived active peptide and its hypolipidemic mechanism of action are unclear. Here, we report the discovery of a novel anti-obesity and hypocholesterolemic peptide, RPR (Arg-Pro-Arg), derived from protamine in mice fed a high-fat diet for 50 days. Serum cholesterol levels were significantly lower in the protamine and RPR groups than in the control group. White adipose tissue weight was significantly decreased in the protamine and RPR groups. The fecal excretion of cholesterol and bile acid was significantly higher in the protamine and RPR groups than in the control group. We also observed a significant decrease in the expression of hepatic SCD1, SREBP1, and adipocyte FAS mRNA, and significantly increased expression of hepatic PPARα and adipocyte PPARγ1 mRNA in the protamine group. These findings demonstrate that the anti-obesity effects of protamine are linked to the upregulation of adipocyte PPARγ1 and hepatic PPARα and the downregulation of hepatic SCD1 via SREBP1 and adipocyte FAS. RPR derived from protamine has a crucial role in the anti-obesity action of protamine by evaluating the effective dose of adipose tissue weight loss.
Dietary Copper/Zinc Ratio and Type 2 Diabetes Risk in Women: The E3N Cohort Study
Authors: Laouali Nasser , MacDonald Conor-James , Shah Sanam , El Fatouhi Douae , Mancini Francesca Romana , Fagherazzi Guy , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine
Published: July 2021

The serum copper (Cu) to zinc (Zn) ratio could be an important determinant of Type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk, but prospective epidemiological data are scarce. We aimed to investigate the association between T2D incidence and the dietary Cu/Zn ratio. A total of 70,991 women from the E3N cohort study were followed for 20 years. The intakes of copper and zinc were estimated at baseline using a validated food frequency questionnaire. We identified and validated 3292 incident T2D cases. Spline analysis showed that a Cu/Zn ratio < 0.55 was associated with a lower risk of T2D. Subgroup analyses comparing women in the highest versus the lowest quintile of Cu/Zn ratio showed the same pattern of association for obese women and those with zinc intake ≥8 mg/day. However, for women with zinc intake <8 mg/day, higher Cu/Zn ratio appeared to be associated with higher T2D risk. Our findings suggest that a lower dietary Cu/Zn ratio is associated with a lower T2D risk, especially among obese women and women with zinc intake >8 mg/day. Further studies are warranted to validate our results.
Caffeine during High-Intensity Whole-Body Exercise: An Integrative Approach beyond the Central Nervous System
Authors: Lima-Silva Adriano E. , Cristina-Souza Gislaine , Silva-Cavalcante Marcos D. , Bertuzzi Romulo , Bishop David J.
Published: July 2021

Caffeine is one of the most consumed ergogenic aids around the world. Many studies support the ergogenic effect of caffeine over a large spectrum of exercise types. While the stimulatory effect of caffeine on the central nervous system is the well-accepted mechanism explaining improvements in exercise performance during high-intensity whole-body exercise, in which other physiological systems such as pulmonary, cardiovascular, and muscular systems are maximally activated, a direct effect of caffeine on such systems cannot be ignored. A better understanding of the effects of caffeine on multiple physiological systems during high-intensity whole-body exercise might help to expand its use in different sporting contexts (e.g., competitions in different environments, such as altitude) or even assist the treatment of some diseases (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). In the present narrative review, we explore the potential effects of caffeine on the pulmonary, cardiovascular, and muscular systems, and describe how such alterations may interact and thus contribute to the ergogenic effects of caffeine during high-intensity whole-body exercise. This integrative approach provides insights regarding how caffeine influences endurance performance and may drive further studies exploring its mechanisms of action in a broader perspective.
Age-Related Cognitive Decline May Be Moderated by Frequency of Specific Food Products Consumption
Authors: Bramorska Aleksandra , Zarzycka Wanda , Podolecka Wiktoria , Kuc Katarzyna , Brzezicka Aneta
Published: July 2021

Our study aimed to evaluate whether the type of food products and the frequency of their consumption are associated with cognitive functioning in younger and older adults. The impact of diets that are high in added sugars and saturated fat on cognitive functioning, especially on memory, was at the center of our interest. Participants in the study were 204 healthy adults (aged 20–55) who performed a multitasking cognitive test and completed dietary and psychological questionnaires. Stepwise regression analysis with age and food consumption patterns as predictors, and the cognitive task performance as a dependent variable, revealed that cognitive task performance worsened with age. However, we found that the frequency of consuming different types of foods (healthy versus unhealthy dietary patterns) moderates the effects of age on cognitive functioning. Red meat and animal fat consumption were negatively correlated with cognitive performance, and this relation was dependent on the age of our participants. Conversely, white meat and fish consumption were positively related to memory. Different indices of dietary patterns (both positive and negative) were stronger predictors of cognitive performance in the older adult group. We interpret our results as evidence that diet may be a protective (or worsening) factor in age-related cognitive decline.