bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flexibility of Fluorinated Graphene-Based Materials
Authors: Antonova Irina , Nebogatikova Nadezhda , Zerrouki Nabila , Kurkina Irina , Ivanov Artem
Published: February 2020

The resistivity of different films and structures containing fluorinated graphene (FG) flakes and chemical vapor deposition (CVD)-grown graphene of various fluorination degrees under tensile and compressive strains due to bending deformations was studied. Graphene and multilayer graphene films grown by means of the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method were transferred onto the flexible substrate by laminating and were subjected to fluorination. They demonstrated a weak fluorination degree (F/C lower 20%). Compressive strains led to a strong (one-two orders of magnitude) decrease in the resistivity in both cases, which was most likely connected with the formation of additional conductive paths through fluorinated graphene. Tensile strain up to 3% caused by the bending of both types of CVD-grown FG led to a constant value of the resistivity or to an irreversible increase in the resistivity under repeated strain cycles. FG films created from the suspension of the fluorinated graphene with a fluorination degree of 20–25%, after the exclusion of design details of the used structures, demonstrated a stable resistivity at least up to 2–3% of tensile and compressive strain. The scale of resistance changes ΔR/R0 was found to be in the range of 14–28% with a different sign at the 10% tensile strain (bending radius 1 mm). In the case of the structures with the FG thin film printed on polyvinyl alcohol, a stable bipolar resistive switching was observed up to 6.5% of the tensile strain (bending radius was 2 mm). A further increase in strain (6.5–8%) leads to a decrease in ON/OFF current ratio from 5 down to 2 orders of magnitude. The current ratio decrease is connected with an increase under the tensile strain in distances between conductive agents (graphene islands and traps at the interface with polyvinyl alcohol) and thickness of fluorinated barriers within the active layer. The excellent performance of the crossbar memristor structures under tensile strain shows that the FG films and structures created from suspension are especially promising for flexible electronics.
Impact of Fly Ash Fractionation on the Zeolitization Process
Authors: Czarna-Juszkiewicz Dorota , Kunecki Piotr , Panek Rafał , Madej Jarosław , Wdowin Magdalena
Published: February 2020

Coal combustion product in the form of fly ash has been sieved and successfully utilised as a main substrate and a carrier of silicon and aluminium in a set of hydrothermal syntheses of zeolites. The final product was abundant in zeolite X phase (Faujasite framework). Raw fly ash as well as its derivatives, after being sieved (fractions: ≤ 63, 63–125, 125–180 and ≥ 180 µm), and the obtained zeolite materials were subjected to mineralogical characterisation using powder X-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence, laser diffraction-based particle size analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The influence of fraction separation on the zeolitization process under hydrothermal synthesis was investigated. Analyses performed on the derived zeolite X samples revealed a meaningful impact of the given fly ash fraction on synthesis efficiency, chemistry, quality as well as physicochemical properties, while favouring a given morphological form of zeolite crystals. The obtained zeolites possess great potential for use in many areas of industry and environmental protection or engineering.
The Application of Chemical Polishing in TEM Sample Preparation of Zirconium Alloys
Authors: Li Fusheng , Li Shilei , Tong Huan , Xu Hainan , Wang Yanli
Published: February 2020

Hydride artefacts are commonly induced by the TEM sample preparation process in Zirconium alloys as hydrogen-sensitive metals, including electron polishing and focused ion beam (FIB) technology. In the research, we present the application of chemical polishing with a solution of 10HF:45HNO3:45H2O to prepare the disk samples for TEM observation in zirconium alloys. The thinning efficiency of chemical polishing is 25 μm per minute. XRD patterns indicate that the chemical polishing actually eliminates the macro- and micro-stress induced by mechanical grinding. TEM observation demonstrates that chemical polishing reduces the amount of hydride artefacts, especially hydrides with large size. It is proposed that induced stress provides driving force for hydride artefact formation. Compared with traditional mechanical grinding, the advantages of chemical polishing are high efficiency, free of induced stress, less induced hydride artefacts and bend contours.
In Vivo Rate of Formaldehyde Condensation with Tetrahydrofolate
Authors: He Hai , Noor Elad , Ramos-Parra Perla A. , García-Valencia Liliana E. , Patterson Jenelle A. , Díaz de la Garza Rocío I. , Hanson Andrew D. , Bar-Even Arren
Published: February 2020

Formaldehyde is a highly reactive compound that participates in multiple spontaneous reactions, but these are mostly deleterious and damage cellular components. In contrast, the spontaneous condensation of formaldehyde with tetrahydrofolate (THF) has been proposed to contribute to the assimilation of this intermediate during growth on C1 carbon sources such as methanol. However, the in vivo rate of this condensation reaction is unknown and its possible contribution to growth remains elusive. Here, we used microbial platforms to assess the rate of this condensation in the cellular environment. We constructed Escherichia coli strains lacking the enzymes that naturally produce 5,10-methylene-THF. These strains were able to grow on minimal medium only when equipped with a sarcosine (N-methyl-glycine) oxidation pathway that sustained a high cellular concentration of formaldehyde, which spontaneously reacts with THF to produce 5,10-methylene-THF. We used flux balance analysis to derive the rate of the spontaneous condensation from the observed growth rate. According to this, we calculated that a microorganism obtaining its entire biomass via the spontaneous condensation of formaldehyde with THF would have a doubling time of more than three weeks. Hence, this spontaneous reaction is unlikely to serve as an effective route for formaldehyde assimilation.
Metabolomics in Psychiatric Disorders: What We Learn from Animal Models
Authors: Humer Elke , Probst Thomas , Pieh Christoph
Published: February 2020

Biomarkers are a recent research target within biological factors of psychiatric disorders. There is growing evidence for deriving biomarkers within psychiatric disorders in serum or urine samples in humans, however, few studies have investigated this differentiation in brain or cerebral fluid samples in psychiatric disorders. As brain samples from humans are only available at autopsy, animal models are commonly applied to determine the pathogenesis of psychiatric diseases and to test treatment strategies. The aim of this review is to summarize studies on biomarkers in animal models for psychiatric disorders. For depression, anxiety and addiction disorders studies, biomarkers in animal brains are available. Furthermore, several studies have investigated psychiatric medication, e.g., antipsychotics, antidepressants, or mood stabilizers, in animals. The most notable changes in biomarkers in depressed animal models were related to the glutamate-γ-aminobutyric acid-glutamine-cycle. In anxiety models, alterations in amino acid and energy metabolism (i.e., mitochondrial regulation) were observed. Addicted animals showed several biomarkers according to the induced drugs. In summary, animal models provide some direct insights into the cellular metabolites that are produced during psychiatric processes. In addition, the influence on biomarkers due to short- or long-term medication is a noticeable finding. Further studies should combine representative animal models and human studies on cerebral fluid to improve insight into mental disorders and advance the development of novel treatment strategies.
Independent and Opposite Associations Between Branched-Chain Amino Acids and Lysophosphatidylcholines With Incident Diabetes in Thais
Authors: Chailurkit La-or , Paiyabhroma Nitchawat , Sritara Piyamit , Vathesatogkit Prin , Yamwong Sukit , Thonmung Nisakron , Ongphiphadhanakul Boonsong
Published: February 2020

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs) have been reported to be associated with diabetes. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relative contributions of BCAAs and LPCs to the progression of prediabetes to diabetes using a targeted metabolomic approach. This study was part of a health survey of employees of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (n = 79; nine females and 70 males). A targeted metabolomics analysis was performed using an AbsoluteIDQ® p180 kit, flow injection analysis, and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The highest variable importance in projection (VIP) scores for the progression to diabetes of the amino acids and phospholipids were associated with isoleucine and LPC acyl C28:1, respectively. Using logistic regression analysis, we found that high baseline isoleucine concentration was associated with a higher incidence of diabetes, while high LPC acyl 28:1 was associated with a lower incidence. Isoleucine and LPC acyl 28:1 were independently associated with incident diabetes in a model that also included conventional risk factors for diabetes (baseline fasting plasma glucose (FPG), age, sex, and body mass index (BMI)). In addition, isoleucine and LPC acyl 28:1 were independently associated with serum HbA1c 5 years later in a robust regression model that also included baseline FPG, age, sex, and BMI. Isoleucine, LPC acyl 28:1, age, and FPG were significantly associated with HbA1c at this time. In conclusion, these results provide evidence that isoleucine and LPC acyl C28:1 have respective positive and negative independent associations with incident diabetes.
Chronic Influence of Inspiratory Muscle Training at Different Intensities on the Serum Metabolome
Authors: Sakaguchi Camila A. , Nieman David C. , F. Signini Etore , M. de Abreu Raphael , Silva Claudio D. , Rehder-Santos Patrícia , Carosio Maria G. A. , M. Maria Roberta , Dato Carla C. , de Araújo Heloisa S. S. , Venâncio Tiago , Ferreira Antônio G. , Catai Aparecida M.
Published: February 2020

This study investigated the chronic effect of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on the human serum metabolome in healthy male recreational cyclists. Using a randomized, parallel group design, twenty-eight participants were randomized to three IMT groups: low intensity (LI, n = 7); moderate intensity (MI, n = 10); and high intensity (HI, n = 11). The IMT was performed for 11 weeks. Another group of participants under the same conditions, who did not perform the IMT but participated in all procedures, was included as controls (CG, n = 6). Blood samples were collected one week before and after 11 weeks of IMT and analyzed for metabolite shifts using 1H NMR. Statistical analysis included a 4 (group) × 2 (time) repeated measures ANOVA using the general linear model (GLM), and multivariate principal component analysis (PCA). Untargeted metabolomics analysis of serum samples identified 22 metabolites, including amino acids, lipids, and tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates. Metabolites shifts did not differ between groups, indicating that IMT at three intensity levels did not alter the serum metabolome relative to the control group. These results reveal novel insights into the metabolic effects of the IMT and are consistent with the results from other studies showing negligible chronic alterations in the serum metabolome in response to physical training.
An Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis Defines Key Pathway Alterations in a Diet-Induced Obesity Mouse Model
Authors: Sundekilde Ulrik K. , Yde Christian C. , Honore Anders H. , Caverly Rae Jessica M. , Burns Frank R. , Mukerji Pushkor , Mawn Michael P. , Stenman Lotta , Dragan Yvonne , Glover Kyle , Jensen Henrik M.
Published: February 2020

Obesity is a multifactorial disease with many complications and related diseases and has become a global epidemic. To thoroughly understand the impact of obesity on whole organism homeostasis, it is helpful to utilize a systems biological approach combining gene expression and metabolomics across tissues and biofluids together with metagenomics of gut microbial diversity. Here, we present a multi-omics study on liver, muscle, adipose tissue, urine, plasma, and feces on mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Gene expression analyses showed alterations in genes related to lipid and energy metabolism and inflammation in liver and adipose tissue. The integration of metabolomics data across tissues and biofluids identified major differences in liver TCA cycle, where malate, succinate and oxaloacetate were found to be increased in HFD mice. This finding was supported by gene expression analysis of TCA-related enzymes in liver, where expression of malate dehydrogenase was found to be decreased. Investigations of the microbiome showed enrichment of Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Streptococcaceae and Lactobacillaceae in the HFD group. Our findings help elucidate how the whole organism metabolome and transcriptome are integrated and regulated during obesity.
Development of a Strain Sensor Matrix on Mobilized Flexible Substrate for the Imaging of Wind Pressure Distribution
Authors: Kanazawa Shusuke , Ushijima Hirobumi
Published: February 2020

This paper presents a novel flexible sensor for monitoring wind pressure distribution. Based on the concept of “flexible mechatronics”, a suspended structure was incorporated into the matrix of a resistive-strain sensor in a plastic film to make the sensor mechanically movable against the wind. Screen printing and laser cutting were confirmed to be satisfactory methods for fabricating the proposed device structure. As a result, the visualization of wind pressure was successfully demonstrated by the fabricated sensor sheet and an imaging-display-creation software. The results of this study show that a mechanically functionalized substrate opens up new avenues for flexible electronics.
The Characteristics and Locking Process of Nonlinear MEMS Gyroscopes
Authors: Su Yan , Xu Pengfei , Han Guowei , Si Chaowei , Ning Jin , Yang Fuhua
Published: February 2020

With the miniaturization of micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) gyroscopes, it is necessary to study their nonlinearity. The phase-frequency characteristics, which affect the start-up time, are crucial for guaranteeing the gyroscopes’ applicability. Nevertheless, although the amplitude-frequency (A-f) effect, one of the most obvious problems in nonlinearity, has been well studied, the phase response of nonlinear gyroscopes is rarely mentioned. In this work, an elaborate study on the characteristics and locking process of nonlinear MEMS gyroscopes is reported. We solved the dynamic equation using the harmonic balance method and simulated the phase-locked loop (PLL) actuation process with an iterative calculation method. It was shown that there existed an apparent overhanging and multi-valued phenomenon in both the amplitude–frequency and phase–frequency curves of nonlinear gyroscopes. Meanwhile, it was ascertained by our simulations that the locking time of PLL was retarded by the nonlinearity under certain conditions. Moreover, experiments demonstrating the effect of nonlinearity were aggravated by the high quality factor of the drive mode due to the instability of the vibration amplitude. A nonlinear PLL (NPLL) containing an integrator was designed to accelerate the locking process. The results show that the start-up time was reduced by an order of magnitude when the appropriate integral coefficient was used.
Silver Nanorings Fabricated by Glycerol-Based Cosolvent Polyol Method
Authors: Li Zhihang , Guo Dong , Xiao Peng , Chen Junlong , Ning Honglong , Wang Yiping , Zhang Xu , Fu Xiao , Yao Rihui , Peng Junbiao
Published: February 2020

The urgent demand for transparent flexible electrodes applied in wide bandgap devices has promoted the development of new materials. Silver nanoring (AgNR), known as a special structure of silver nanowire (AgNW), exhibits attractive potential in the field of wearable electronics. In this work, an environmentally friendly glycerol-based cosolvent polyol method was investigated. The Taguchi design was utilized to ascertain the factors that affect the yield and ring diameter of AgNRs. Structural characterization showed that AgNR seeds grew at a certain angle during the early nucleation period. The results indicated that the yield and ring diameter of AgNRs were significantly affected by the ratio of cosolvent. Besides, the ring diameter of AgNRs was also tightly related to the concentration of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). The difference of reducibility between glycerol, water, and ethylene glycol leads to the selective growth of (111) plane and is probably the main reason AgNRs are formed. As a result, AgNRs with a ring diameter range from 7.17 to 42.94 μm were synthesized, and the quantity was increased significantly under the optimal level of factors.
Disposable DNA Amplification Chips with Integrated Low-Cost Heaters †
Authors: Veltkamp Henk-Willem , Akegawa Monteiro Fernanda , Sanders Remco , Wiegerink Remco , Lötters Joost
Published: February 2020

Fast point-of-use detection of, for example, early-stage zoonoses, e.g., Q-fever, bovine tuberculosis, or the Covid-19 coronavirus, is beneficial for both humans and animal husbandry as it can save lives and livestock. The latter prevents farmers from going bankrupt after a zoonoses outbreak. This paper describes the development of a fabrication process and the proof-of-principle of a disposable DNA amplification chip with an integrated heater. Based on the analysis of the milling process, metal adhesion studies, and COMSOL MultiPhysics heat transfer simulations, the first batch of chips has been fabricated and successful multiple displacement amplification reactions are performed inside these chips. This research is the first step towards the development of an early-stage zoonoses detection device. Tests with real zoonoses and DNA specific amplification reactions still need to be done.
Evaluation of Bio-Based Extraction Methods by Spectroscopic Methods
Authors: Monachon Mathilde , Albelda-Berenguer Magdalena , Lombardo Tiziana , Cornet Emilie , Moll-Dau Friederike , Schramm Janet , Schmidt-Ott Katharina , Joseph Edith
Published: February 2020

New technologies are in development regarding the preservation of waterlogged archaeological wood items contaminated with Fe/S species. To this purpose, a bio-based treatment to extract these harmful species before further damages occur is presented. Thiobacillus denitrificans and desferoxamine were employed based on their specific properties to solubilize iron sulfides and uptake iron. The biological treatment was compared with oxidizing and complexing agents (sodium persulfate and ethylene diamine tetraacetate) traditionally used in conservation-restoration. Mock-ups of fresh balsa as well as fresh and archeological oak and pinewood were prepared to simulate degraded waterlogged wood by immersion in corrosive Fe/S solutions. The efficiency of both biological and chemical extraction methods was evaluated through ATR-FTIR and Raman spectroscopies and validated by statistical approach. Results showed that treatments did not affect the wood composition, meaning that no wood degradation was induced. However, the chemical method tended to bleach the samples and after treatment, reduced sulfur species were still identified by Raman analyses. Finally, statistical approaches allowed validating ATR-FTIR results.
Effect of Cu2+ on the Activation to Muscovite Using Electrochemical Pretreatment
Authors: Wang Yubin , Wang Yan , Xiao Wei , Wei Yaru , Li Shuqin
Published: February 2020

In this study, electrochemistry pretreatment flotation of muscovite was carried out and the flotation behavior and mechanism of muscovite in the system of sodium oleate and Cu2+ion was characterized by solution pH value detection, solution conductivity detection, zeta potential, infrared spectrum and the electronic energy spectrum. The results indicated that under the conditions of muscovite mass of 10.00 g, pulp mass concentration of 13.33%, flotation speed of 1750 r/min, sodium oleate concentration of 9.20 × 10−4 mol/L and Cu2+ concentration of 6 × 10−5 mol/L, electrochemical pretreatment of Cu2+ could strengthen the activation of muscovite. Electrochemical pretreatment of Cu2+ solution can inhibit the hydrolysis of copper ions, increase the content of Cu2+ in the solution, strengthen the adsorption of Cu2+ on the muscovite surface, and enhance the electrostatic adsorption of sodium oleate on the muscovite surface, thereby strengthening the physical and chemical adsorption of sodium oleate on the muscovite surface.
Porous Si Partially Filled with Water Molecules—Crystal Structure, Energy Bands and Optical Properties from First Principles
Authors: Shchur Ya. , Pavlyuk O. , Andrushchak A.S. , Vitusevich S. , Kityk A.V.
Published: February 2020

The paper reports the results on first-principles investigation of energy band spectrum and optical properties of bulk and nanoporous silicon. We present the evolution of energy band-gap, refractive indices and extinction coefficients going from the bulk Si of cubic symmetry to porous Si with periodically ordered square-shaped pores of 7.34, 11.26 and 15.40 Å width. We consider two natural processes observed in practice, the hydroxylation of Si pores (introduction of OH groups into pores) and the penetration of water molecules into Si pores, as well as their impact on the electronic spectrum and optical properties of Si superstructures. The penetration of OH groups into the pores of the smallest 7.34 Å width causes a disintegration of hydroxyl groups and forms non-bonded protons which might be a reason for proton conductivity of porous Si. The porosity of silicon increases the extinction coefficient, k, in the visible range of the spectrum. The water structuring in pores of various diameters is analysed in detail. By using the bond valence sum approach we demonstrate that the types and geometry of most of hydrogen bonds created within the pores manifest a structural evolution from distorted hydrogen bonds inherent to small pores (∼7 Å) to typical hydrogen bonds observed by us in larger pores (∼15 Å) which are consistent with those observed in a wide database of inorganic crystals.
Safe Administration of Carbon Nanotubes by Intravenous Pathway in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Guzmán-Mendoza José Jesús , Montes-Fonseca Silvia Lorena , Ramos-Martínez Ernesto , González-Horta Carmen , Hernández-Rodríguez Pilar del Carmen , Orrantia-Borunda Erasmo , Chávez-Flores David , Sánchez-Ramírez Blanca
Published: February 2020

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are nanomaterials with multiple possible uses as drug carriers or in nanovaccine development. However, the toxicity of CNTs administered intravenously in in vivo models has not been fully described to date. This work aimed to evaluate the toxic effect of pristine multi-walled CNTs (UP-CNTs), purified (P-CNTs), or CNTs functionalized with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC-CNTs) administered by intravenous injection in BALB/c mice. Biochemical and histopathological parameters were analyzed at 1, 14, 29, and 60 days post-exposure. Pristine CNTs were the most toxic nanoparticles in comparison with P-CNTs or FITC-CNTs, increasing serum AST (≈ 180%), ALT (≈ 300%), and LDH (≈ 200%) levels at one day post-exposure. The urea/creatinine ratio suggested pre-renal injury at the 14th day accompanied of extensive lesions in kidneys, lungs, and liver. Biochemical and histological findings in mice exposed to P-CNTs had not significant differences compared to the controls. A lower toxic effect was detected in animals exposed to FITC-CNTs which was attributable to FITC toxicity. These results demonstrate that the purification process of CNTs reduces in vivo toxicity, and that toxicity in functionalized CNTs is dependent on the functionalized compound. Therefore, P-CNTs are postulated as potential candidates for safe biomedical applications using an intravenous pathway.
Surface Chemistry-Dependent Evolution of the Nanomaterial Corona on TiO2 Nanomaterials Following Uptake and Sub-Cellular Localization
Authors: Khan Abdullah O. , Di Maio Alessandro , Guggenheim Emily J. , Chetwynd Andrew J. , Pencross Dan , Tang Selina , Belinga-Desaunay Marie-France A. , Thomas Steven G. , Rappoport Joshua Z. , Lynch Iseult
Published: February 2020

Nanomaterial (NM) surface chemistry has an established and significant effect on interactions at the nano-bio interface, with important toxicological consequences for manufactured NMs, as well as potent effects on the pharmacokinetics and efficacy of nano-therapies. In this work, the effects of different surface modifications (PVP, Dispex AA4040, and Pluronic F127) on the uptake, cellular distribution, and degradation of titanium dioxide NMs (TiO2 NMs, ~10 nm core size) are assessed and correlated with the localization of fluorescently-labeled serum proteins forming their coronas. Imaging approaches with an increasing spatial resolution, including automated high throughput live cell imaging, correlative confocal fluorescence and reflectance microscopy, and dSTORM super-resolution microscopy, are used to explore the cellular fate of these NMs and their associated serum proteins. Uncoated TiO2 NMs demonstrate a rapid loss of corona proteins, while surface coating results in the retention of the corona signal after internalization for at least 24 h (varying with coating composition). Imaging with two-color super-resolution dSTORM revealed that the apparent TiO2 NM single agglomerates observed in diffraction-limited confocal microscopy are actually adjacent smaller agglomerates, and provides novel insights into the spatial arrangement of the initial and exchanged coronas adsorbed at the NM surfaces.
On the Analogy between Electrolytes and Ion-Generating Nanomaterials in Liquid Crystals
Authors: Garbovskiy Yuriy
Published: February 2020

Nanomaterials in liquid crystals are a hot topic of contemporary liquid crystal research. An understanding of the possible effects of nanodopants on the properties of liquid crystals is critical for the development of novel mesogenic materials with improved functionalities. This paper focuses on the electrical behavior of contaminated nanoparticles in liquid crystals. More specifically, an analogy between electrolytes and ion-generating nanomaterials in liquid crystals is established. The physical consequences of this analogy are analyzed. Under comparable conditions, the number of ions generated by nanomaterials in liquid crystals can be substantially greater than the number of ions generated by electrolytes of similar concentration.
Elucidating the Effect of Etching Time Key-Parameter toward Optically and Electrically-Active Silicon Nanowires
Authors: Naffeti Mariem , Postigo Pablo Aitor , Chtourou Radhouane , Zaïbi Mohamed Ali
Published: February 2020

In this work, vertically aligned silicon nanowires (SiNWs) with relatively high crystallinity have been fabricated through a facile, reliable, and cost-effective metal assisted chemical etching method. After introducing an itemized elucidation of the fabrication process, the effect of varying etching time on morphological, structural, optical, and electrical properties of SiNWs was analysed. The NWs length increased with increasing etching time, whereas the wires filling ratio decreased. The broadband photoluminescence (PL) emission was originated from self-generated silicon nanocrystallites (SiNCs) and their size were derived through an analytical model. FTIR spectroscopy confirms that the PL deterioration for extended time is owing to the restriction of excitation volume and therefore reduction of effective light-emitting crystallites. These SiNWs are very effective in reducing the reflectance to 9–15% in comparison with Si wafer. I–V characteristics revealed that the rectifying behaviour and the diode parameters calculated from conventional thermionic emission and Cheung’s model depend on the geometry of SiNWs. We deduce that judicious control of etching time or otherwise SiNWs’ length is the key to ensure better optical and electrical properties of SiNWs. Our findings demonstrate that shorter SiNWs are much more optically and electrically active which is auspicious for the use in optoelectronic devices and solar cells applications.
Current Evidence of Natural Agents in Oral and Periodontal Health
Authors: Isola Gaetano
Published: February 2020

Oral and periodontal diseases, chewing disorders, and many destructive inflammatory diseases of the supporting tissues of the teeth are usually caused by an imbalance between host defense and environmental factors like smoking, poor nutrition, and a high percentage of periodontopathogenic bacteria. For these reasons, it is important also to focus attention on plaque control and also on improving host resistance through smoking and stress reduction, and a healthy diet. During the last decades, the importance of micronutrients has been extensively reviewed, and it was concluded that the prevention and treatment of periodontitis should include correct daily nutrition and a correct balance between antioxidants, probiotics, natural agents, vitamin D, and calcium. Recently, there has been growing interest in the literature on the impact of nutraceutical dietary aliments on oral and general health. This Special Issue provides a current and thoughtful perspective on the relationship of diet and natural agents on oral and periodontal diseases through a correct clinical approach with the last and most important evidence that may determine good oral conditions and high quality of life.
Smartphone-Based Maternal Education for the Complementary Feeding of Undernourished Children Under 3 Years of Age in Food-Secure Communities: Randomised Controlled Trial in Urmia, Iran
Authors: Seyyedi Navisa , Rahimi Bahlol , Eslamlou Hamid Reza Farrokh , Afshar Hadi Lotfnezhad , Spreco Armin , Timpka Toomas
Published: February 2020

The mothers’ nutritional literacy is an important determinant of child malnourishment. We assessed the effect of a smartphone-based maternal nutritional education programme for the complementary feeding of undernourished children under 3 years of age in a food-secure middle-income community. The study used a randomised controlled trial design with one intervention arm and one control arm (n = 110; 1:1 ratio) and was performed at one well-child clinic in Urmia, Iran. An educational smartphone application was delivered to the intervention group for a 6-month period while the control group received treatment-as-usual (TAU) with regular check-ups of the child’s development at the well-child centre and the provision of standard nutritional information. The primary outcome measure was change in the indicator of acute undernourishment (i.e., wasting) which is the weight-for-height z-score (WHZ). Children in the smartphone group showed greater wasting status improvement (WHZ +0.65 (95% Confidence Interval (CI) ± 0.16)) than children in the TAU group (WHZ +0.31 (95% CI ± 0.21); p = 0.011) and greater reduction (89.6% vs. 51.5%; p = 0.016) of wasting caseness (i.e., WHZ < −2; yes/no). We conclude that smartphone-based maternal nutritional education in complementary feeding is more effective than TAU for reducing undernourishment among children under 3 years of age in food-secure communities.
The Association of Vitamin D Status with Lipid Profile and Inflammation Biomarkers in Healthy Adolescents
Authors: Yarparvar Amirhossein , Elmadfa Ibrahim , Djazayery Abolghassem , Abdollahi Zahra , Salehi Forouzan
Published: February 2020

Background: The association between vitamin D status and inflammatory biomarkers and lipid profile is not well known, especially in adolescents. Therefore, the aim of the current study is to investigate the association of vitamin D status with serum lipids and inflammatory biomarkers, including IL-10, IL-6, hsCRP, and TNFR-2, in male adolescents. Methods and materials: A sample of seventy-one high school male students, aged 17 years old, from a high school in Tehran were enrolled in the study. They were divided into four groups including group with serum vitamin D below 25 (ng/mL) (SVD < 25; n = 36), 25 and above (ng/mL) (SVD ≥ 25; n = 35), negative-hsCRP (n = 48), and positive-hsCRP (n = 23). Weight, height, body mass index, dietary intake, serum lipids, and inflammatory biomarkers, including IL-10, IL-6, hsCRP, and TNFR-2, were measured. Results: In the (SVD < 25) group, the serum level of TNFR-2 was significantly higher compared to that in the (SVD ≥ 25) group. There was a significant negative association between serum TNFR-2 and vitamin D levels in the whole sample. We found significant lower levels of IL-10 in positive-hsCRP group compared to the negative-hsCRP group. In addition, there was a significant negative correlation between the serum vitamin D level and hsCRP in both hsCRP groups. The HDL level was lower in the (SVD < 25) group compared to that in the (SVD ≥ 25) group. Finally, there was a negative correlation between the serum HDL and hsCRP levels in the positive-hsCRP subjects. Conclusion: Based on the findings it can be concluded that serum vitamin D affects HDL and inflammation status. Although serum levels of HDL and inflammation status are both predictors of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease, further studies are needed to prove it, especially in adolescents.
The Clustering of Low Diet Quality, Low Physical Fitness, and Unhealthy Sleep Pattern and Its Association with Changes in Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Children
Authors: Shang Xianwen , Li Yanping , Xu Haiquan , Zhang Qian , Liu Ailing , Ma Guansheng
Published: February 2020

The clustering of diet quality, physical activity, and sleep and its association with cardiometabolic risk (CMR) factors remains to be explored. We included 5315 children aged 6–13 years in the analysis. CMR score (CMRS) was computed by summing Z-scores of waist circumference, an average of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting glucose, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (multiplying by −1), and triglycerides. Low diet quality and low cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) were more likely to be seen in a pair, but low diet quality was less likely to be clustered with unhealthy sleep patterns. Low diet quality, low CRF, and unhealthy sleep pattern was associated with a 0.63, 0.53, and 0.25 standard deviation (SD) higher increase in CMRS, respectively. Compared to children with no unhealthy factor (−0.79 SD), those with ≥1 unhealthy factor had a higher increase (−0.20 to 0.59 SD) in CMRS. A low diet quality-unhealthy sleep pattern resulted in the highest increase in CMRS, blood pressure, and triglycerides. A low diet quality–low CRF-unhealthy sleep pattern resulted in the highest increase in fatness and fasting glucose. Unhealthy factor cluster patterns are complex; however, their positive associations with changes in CMR factors are consistently significant in children. Some specific patterns are more harmful than others for cardiometabolic health.
Evaluation of Disease Causality of Rare Ixodes ricinus-Borne Infections in Europe
Authors: Azagi Tal , Hoornstra Dieuwertje , Kremer Kristin , Hovius Joppe W. R. , Sprong Hein
Published: February 2020

In Europe, Ixodes ricinus ticks transmit pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). In addition, there is evidence for transmission to humans from I. ricinus of Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia divergens, Babesia microti, Babesia venatorum, Borrelia miyamotoi, Neoehrlichia mikurensis, Rickettsia helvetica and Rickettsia monacensis. However, whether infection with these potential tick-borne pathogens results in human disease has not been fully demonstrated for all of these tick-borne microorganisms. To evaluate the available evidence for a causative relation between infection and disease, the current study analyses European case reports published from 2008 to 2018, supplemented with information derived from epidemiological and experimental studies. The evidence for human disease causality in Europe found in this review appeared to be strongest for A. phagocytophilum and B. divergens. Nonetheless, some knowledge gaps still exist. Importantly, comprehensive evidence for pathogenicity is lacking for the remaining tick-borne microorganisms. Such evidence could be gathered best through prospective studies, for example, studies enrolling patients with a fever after a tick bite, the development of specific new serological tools, isolation of these microorganisms from ticks and patients and propagation in vitro, and through experimental studies.
Novel Sustained-Release Drug Delivery System for Dry Eye Therapy by Rebamipide Nanoparticles
Authors: Nagai Noriaki , Ishii Miyu , Seiriki Ryotaro , Ogata Fumihiko , Otake Hiroko , Nakazawa Yosuke , Okamoto Norio , Kanai Kazutaka , Kawasaki Naohito
Published: February 2020

The commercially available rebamipide ophthalmic suspension (CA-REB) was approved for clinical use in patients with dry eye; however, the residence time on the ocular surface for the traditional formulations is short, since the drug is removed from the ocular surface through the nasolacrimal duct. In this study, we designed a novel sustained-release drug delivery system (DDS) for dry eye therapy by rebamipide nanoparticles. The rebamipide solid nanoparticle-based ophthalmic formulation (REB-NPs) was prepared by a bead mill using additives (2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and methylcellulose) and a gel base (carbopol). The rebamipide particles formed are ellipsoid, with a particle size in the range of 40–200 nm. The rebamipide in the REB-NPs applied to eyelids was delivered into the lacrimal fluid through the meibomian glands, and sustained drug release was observed in comparison with CA-REB. Moreover, the REB-NPs increased the mucin levels in the lacrimal fluid and healed tear film breakup levels in an N-acetylcysteine-treated rabbit model. The information about this novel DDS route and creation of a nano-formulation can be used to design further studies aimed at therapy for dry eye.
Nano- and Microcarriers as Drug Delivery Systems for Usnic Acid: Review of Literature
Authors: Zugic Ana , Tadic Vanja , Savic Snezana
Published: February 2020

Usnic acid is one of the most investigated lichen secondary metabolites, with several proven biological properties with potential medical relevance. However, its unfavorable physico-chemical properties, as well as observed hepatotoxicity, have discouraged wide-range utilization of usnic acid as a promising therapeutic agent. In accordance with the growing research interest in the development of nanotechnology, especially in the arena of preparations based on natural sources of medicinal compounds, usnic acid incorporated into nano- and microsized colloidal carriers has been a subject of a large number of publications. Therefore, this review discusses the overall results of the studies dealing with usnic acid encapsulated into lipid-based, polymeric and nonorganic micro- and/or nanocarriers, as potential drug delivery systems for this natural compound, in an attempt to introduce its usage as a potential antitumor, antimicrobial, wound-healing, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory drug.
Dendritic Cell Vaccines for Cancer Immunotherapy: The Role of Human Conventional Type 1 Dendritic Cells
Authors: Calmeiro João , Carrascal Mylène A. , Tavares Adriana Ramos , Ferreira Daniel Alexandre , Gomes Célia , Falcão Amílcar , Cruz Maria Teresa , Neves Bruno Miguel
Published: February 2020

Throughout the last decades, dendritic cell (DC)-based anti-tumor vaccines have proven to be a safe therapeutic approach, although with inconsistent clinical results. The functional limitations of ex vivo monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MoDCs) commonly used in these therapies are one of the pointed explanations for their lack of robustness. Therefore, a great effort has been made to identify DC subsets with superior features for the establishment of effective anti-tumor responses and to apply them in therapeutic approaches. Among characterized human DC subpopulations, conventional type 1 DCs (cDC1) have emerged as a highly desirable tool for empowering anti-tumor immunity. This DC subset excels in its capacity to prime antigen-specific cytotoxic T cells and to activate natural killer (NK) and natural killer T (NKT) cells, which are critical factors for an effective anti-tumor immune response. Here, we sought to revise the immunobiology of cDC1 from their ontogeny to their development, regulation and heterogeneity. We also address the role of this functionally thrilling DC subset in anti-tumor immune responses and the most recent efforts to apply it in cancer immunotherapy.
Perillaldehyde 1,2-epoxide Loaded SLN-Tailored mAb: Production, Physicochemical Characterization and In Vitro Cytotoxicity Profile in MCF-7 Cell Lines
Authors: Souto Eliana B. , Souto Selma B. , Zielinska Aleksandra , Durazzo Alessandra , Lucarini Massimo , Santini Antonello , Horbańczuk Olaf K. , Atanasov Atanas G. , Marques Conrado , Andrade Luciana N. , Silva Amélia M. , Severino Patricia
Published: February 2020

We have developed a new cationic solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) formulation, composed of Compritol ATO 888, poloxamer 188 and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), to load perillaldehyde 1,2-epoxide, and surface-tailored with a monoclonal antibody for site-specific targeting of human epithelial growth receptor 2 (HER2). Perillaldehyde 1,2-epoxide-loaded cationic SLN (cPa-SLN), with a mean particle size (z-Ave) of 275.31 ± 4.78 nm and polydispersity index (PI) of 0.303 ± 0.081, were produced by high shear homogenization. An encapsulation efficiency of cPa-SLN above 80% was achieved. The release of perillaldehyde 1,2-epoxide from cationic SLN followed the Korsemeyer–Peppas kinetic model, which is typically seen in nanoparticle formulations. The lipid peroxidation of cPa-SLN was assessed by the capacity to produce thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, while the antioxidant activity was determined by the capacity to scavenge the stable radical DPPH. The surface functionalization of cPa-SLN with the antibody was done via streptavidin-biotin interaction, monitoring z-Ave, PI and ZP of the obtained assembly (cPa-SLN-SAb), as well as its stability in phosphate buffer. The effect of plain cationic SLN (c-SLN, monoterpene free), cPa-SLN and cPa-SLN-SAb onto the MCF-7 cell lines was evaluated in a concentration range from 0.01 to 0.1 mg/mL, confirming that streptavidin adsorption onto cPa-SLN-SAb improved the cell viability in comparison to the cationic cPa-SLN.
A Pediatrics Utilization Study in The Netherlands to Identify Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Suitable for Inkjet Printing on Orodispersible Films
Authors: Visser J. Carolina , Wibier Lisa , Kiefer Olga , Orlu Mine , Breitkreutz Jörg , Woerdenbag Herman J. , Taxis Katja
Published: February 2020

Background: The use of medication in pediatrics, children aged 0–5 years, was explored so as to identify active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) suitable for inkjet printing on a plain orodispersible film (ODF) formulation in a pharmacy. Methods: The database IADB.nl, containing pharmacy dispensing data from community pharmacies in the Netherlands, was used to explore medication use in the age group of 0–5 years old, based on the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classification code (ATC code). Subsequently, a stepwise approach with four exclusion steps was used to identify the drug candidates for ODF formulation development. Results: there were 612 Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) that were dispensed to the target group, mostly antibiotics. Of the APIs, 221 were not registered for pediatrics, but were used off-label. After the exclusion steps, 34 APIs were examined regarding their suitability for inkjet printing. Almost all of the APIs were sparingly water soluble to practically insoluble. Conclusion: Pharmaceutical inkjet printing is a suitable new technique for ODF manufacturing for pediatric application, however the maximal printed dose as found in the literature remained low. From the selected candidates, only montelukast shows a sufficiently high water-solubility to prepare a water-based solution. To achieve higher drug loads per ODF is ambitious, but is theoretically possible by printing multiple layers, using highly water-soluble APIs or highly loaded suspensions.
Impact of Mucin on Drug Diffusion: Development of a Straightforward In Vitro Method for the Determination of Drug Diffusivity in the Presence of Mucin
Authors: Falavigna Margherita , Stein Paul , Flaten Gøril , di Cagno Massimiliano
Published: February 2020

Mucosal drug delivery accounts for various administration routes (i.e., oral, vaginal, ocular, pulmonary, etc.) and offers a vast surface for the permeation of drugs. However, the mucus layer which shields and lubricates all mucosal tissues can compromise drugs from reaching the epithelial site, thus affecting their absorption and therapeutic effect. Therefore, the effect of the mucus layer on drug absorption has to be evaluated early in the drug-development phase, prior to in vivo studies. For this reason, we developed a simple, cost-effective and reproducible method employing UV-visible localized spectroscopy for the assessment of the interaction between mucin and drugs with different physicochemical characteristics. The mucin–drug interaction was investigated by measuring the drug relative diffusivity (Drel) in the presence of mucin, and the method was validated by fitting experimental and mathematical data. In vitro permeability studies were also performed using the mucus-covered artificial permeation barrier (mucus–PVPA, Phospholipid Vesicle-based Permeation Assay) for comparison. The obtained results showed that the diffusion of drugs was hampered by the presence of mucin, especially at higher concentrations. This novel method proved to be suitable for the investigation on the extent of mucin–drug interaction and can be successfully used to assess the impact that the mucus layer has on drug absorption.
Nanomaterials Designed for Antiviral Drug Delivery Transport across Biological Barriers
Authors: Cojocaru Florina-Daniela , Botezat Doru , Gardikiotis Ioannis , Uritu Cristina-Mariana , Dodi Gianina , Trandafir Laura , Rezus Ciprian , Rezus Elena , Tamba Bogdan-Ionel , Mihai Cosmin-Teodor
Published: February 2020

Viral infections are a major global health problem, representing a significant cause of mortality with an unfavorable continuously amplified socio-economic impact. The increased drug resistance and constant viral replication have been the trigger for important studies regarding the use of nanotechnology in antiviral therapies. Nanomaterials offer unique physico-chemical properties that have linked benefits for drug delivery as ideal tools for viral treatment. Currently, different types of nanomaterials namely nanoparticles, liposomes, nanospheres, nanogels, nanosuspensions and nanoemulsions were studied either in vitro or in vivo for drug delivery of antiviral agents with prospects to be translated in clinical practice. This review highlights the drug delivery nanosystems incorporating the major antiviral classes and their transport across specific barriers at cellular and intracellular level. Important reflections on nanomedicines currently approved or undergoing investigations for the treatment of viral infections are also discussed. Finally, the authors present an overview on the requirements for the design of antiviral nanotherapeutics.