bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Volatile Flavor Compounds in Supercritical Fluid Separated and Identified in Gurum (Citrulluslanatus Var. colocynthoide) Seed Oil Using HSME and GC–MS
Authors: Karrar Emad , Ahmed Isam A. Mohamed , Wei Wei , Sarpong Frederick , Proestos Charalampos , Amarowicz Ryszard , Oz Emel , Sheikha Aly Farag El , Allam Ayman Y. , Oz Fatih , Wang Xingguo
Published: June 2022

In this study, the volatile compound profiles of gurum seed oil were determined using two methods: supercritical CO2 extraction (SFE) and the screw press process (SPP). For volatile compounds extraction and identification, headspace solid-phase micro-extraction (HS-SPME) and GC–MS were used, respectively. A total number of 56 volatile compounds were revealed and identified in oil extracted by SFE, while only 40 compounds were detected in extracted oil by SPP. Acids, aldehydes, esters, ketones, furans, and other components were present in the highest ratio in oil extracted by SFE. In contrast, alcohols and alkenes were found in the highest proportion in oil extracted by SPP. In this study, it was observed that SFE showed an increase in the amounts of volatile compounds and favorably impacted the aroma of gurum seed oil. The results reveal that different extraction methods significantly impact the volatile components of gurum seed oil, and this study can help evaluate the quality of the oil extracted from gurum seeds.
Racemic Norlignans as Diastereoisomers from Ferula sinkiangensis Resins with Antitumor and Wound-Healing Promotion Activities
Authors: Li Ying-Shi , Yang Bao-Chen , Zheng Shu-Min , Cheng Yong-Xian , Cui Hong-Hua
Published: June 2022

Ferulasinkins A–D (1–4), four new norlignans, were isolated from the resins of Ferula sinkiangensis, a medicinal plant of the Apiaceae family. All of them were obtained as racemic mixtures, chiral HPLC was used to produce their (+)- and (−)-antipodes. The structures of these new compounds, including their absolute configurations, were elucidated by spectroscopic and computational methods. This isolation provides new insight into the chemical profiling of F. sinkiangensis resins beyond the well-investigated structure types such as sesquiterpene coumarins and disulfides. Compounds 2a and 3a were found to significantly inhibit the invasion and migration of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines via CCK-8 assay. On the other hand, the wound-healing assay also demonstrated that compounds 4a and 4b could promote the proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Notably, the promoting effects of 4a and 4b were observed as more significant versus a positive control using basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF).
Green Tea (Camellia sinensis): A Review of Its Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology
Authors: Zhao Tiantian , Li Chao , Wang Shuai , Song Xinqiang
Published: June 2022

Objectives Green tea (Camellia sinensis) is a kind of unfermented tea that retains the natural substance in fresh leaves to a great extent. It is regarded as the second most popular drink in the world besides water. In this paper, the phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of green tea are reviewed systematically and comprehensively. Key findings Green tea has been demonstrated to be good for human health. Nowadays, multiple pharmacologically active components have been isolated and identified from green tea, including tea polyphenols, alkaloids, amino acids, polysaccharides, and volatile components. Recent studies have demonstrated that green tea shows versatile pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, anticancer, hypoglycemic, antibacterial, antiviral, and neuroprotective. Studies on the toxic effects of green tea extract and its main ingredients have also raised concerns including hepatotoxicity and DNA damage. Summary Green tea can be used to assist the treatment of diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, oral cancer, and dermatitis. Consequently, green tea has shown promising practical prospects in health care and disease prevention.
Determining the Parameters of the Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica L.) Hydrolate Distillation Process
Authors: Krajewska Agnieszka , Mietlińska Katarzyna
Published: June 2022

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.) is a common perennial herb well known for its therapeutic, cosmetic and food use. Despite the popularity of nettle hydrolate, there is currently no literature describing its composition; likewise, there is still a lack of research describing in detail the parameters of hydrolates in general. U. dioica hydrolate fractions were obtained by industrial steam distillation of fresh herb. Total stinging nettle hydrolate was prepared by mixing an equal volume of each fraction. The volatiles were isolated from hydrolate samples by liquid–liquid extraction with diethyl ether, and analysed using GC-FID-MS. Over eighty volatile compounds were identified in U. dioica hydrolate. The main group of constituents were oxygenated compounds, mainly alcohols (e.g., (E)- and (Z)-hex-3-en-1-ol, carvacrol) and oxides (e.g., caryophyllene oxide). The content of volatiles in the representative sample of total hydrolate amounted to 58.2 mg/L. Some qualitative and quantitative changes in the composition of U. dioica hydrolate were observed during the progress of distillation. The content of low chain aliphatic alcohols ((E)- and (Z)-hex-3-en-1-ol) decreased, whereas the percentage of some monoterpene alcohols (carvacrol and α-terpineol) increased. The total content of volatiles in hydrolate also changed and decreased (128.0–6.2 mg/L) during distillation progress. According to our results, to produce stinging nettle hydrolate of good quality, the proper relationship between the amount of hydrolate and raw plant material should result in obtaining 0.74 L hydrolate from 1 kg of fresh stinging nettle herb. Therefore, it may be assumed that the high alcohol content may increase the microbiological stability of the product.
1,8-Cineole Ameliorates Advanced Glycation End Products-Induced Alzheimer’s Disease-like Pathology In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: An Fengmao , Bai Yuhan , Xuan Xinran , Bian Ming , Zhang Guowei , Wei Chengxi
Published: June 2022

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are stable products produced by the reaction of macromolecules such as proteins, lipids or nucleic acids with glucose or other reducing monosaccharides, which can be identified by immunohistochemistry in the senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients. Growing evidence suggests that AGEs are important risk factors for the development and progression of AD. 1,8-cineole (CIN) is a monoterpenoid compound which exists in many plant essential oils and has been proven to have neuroprotective activity, but its specific effect and molecular mechanisms are not clear. In this study, AGEs-induced neuronal injury and intracerebroventricular-AGE animals as the possible models for AD were employed to investigate the effects of CIN on AD pathology as well as the molecular mechanisms involved both in vivo and in vitro. Our study demonstrated that CIN could ameliorate tau phosphorylation by down-regulating the activity of GSK-3β and reducing Aβ production by inhibiting the activity of BACE-1 both in vivo and in vitro. It is suggested that CIN has certain therapeutic value in the treatment of AD.
Near-Infrared-Emissive AIE Bioconjugates: Recent Advances and Perspectives
Authors: Luo Wenshuai , Tan Yonghong , Gui Yixiong , Yan Dingyuan , Wang Dong , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: June 2022

Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence materials have exhibited formidable power in the field of biomedicine, benefiting from their merits of low autofluorescence background, reduced photon scattering, and deeper penetration depth. Fluorophores possessing planar conformation may confront the shortcomings of aggregation-caused quenching effects at the aggregate level. Fortunately, the concept of aggregation-induced emission (AIE) thoroughly reverses this dilemma. AIE bioconjugates referring to the combination of luminogens showing an AIE nature with biomolecules possessing specific functionalities are generated via the covalent conjugation between AIEgens and functional biological species, covering carbohydrates, peptides, proteins, DNA, and so on. This perfect integration breeds unique superiorities containing high brightness, good water solubility, versatile functionalities, and prominent biosafety. In this review, we summarize the recent progresses of NIR-emissive AIE bioconjugates focusing on their design principles and biomedical applications. Furthermore, a brief prospect of the challenges and opportunities of AIE bioconjugates for a wide range of biomedical applications is presented.
Screening of Contaminants of Emerging Concern in Surface Water and Wastewater Effluents, Assisted by the Persistency-Mobility-Toxicity Criteria
Authors: Montes Rosa , Méndez Sandra , Carro Nieves , Cobas Julio , Alves Nelson , Neuparth Teresa , Santos Miguel Machado , Quintana José Benito , Rodil Rosario
Published: June 2022

Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) are compounds of diverse origins that have not been deeply studied in the past which are now accruing growing environmental interest. The NOR-Water project aimed to identify the main CECs and their sources in the water environment of Northern Portugal–Galicia (located in northwest Spain) transnational region. To achieve these goals, a suspect screening analytical methodology based on the use of liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) was applied to 29 sampling sites in two campaigns. These sampling sites included river and sea water, as well as treated wastewater. The screening was driven by a library of over 3500 compounds, which included 604 compounds prioritized from different relevant lists on the basis of the persistency, mobility, and toxicity criteria. Thus, a total of 343 chemicals could be tentatively identified in the analyzed samples. This list of 343 identified chemicals was submitted to the classification workflow used for prioritization and resulted in 153 chemicals tentatively classified as persistent, mobile, and toxic (PMT) and 23 as very persistent and very mobile (vMvP), pinpointing the relevance of these types of chemicals in the aqueous environment. Pharmaceuticals, such as the antidepressant venlafaxine or the antipsychotic sulpiride, and industrial chemicals, especially high production volume chemicals (HPVC) such as ε-caprolactam, were the groups of compounds that were detected at the highest frequencies.
Rational Design of Peptides Derived from Odorant-Binding Proteins for SARS-CoV-2-Related Volatile Organic Compounds Recognition
Authors: Wang Jin , Sakai Kenji , Kiwa Toshihiko
Published: June 2022

Peptides are promising molecular-binding elements and have attracted great interest in novel biosensor development. In this study, a series of peptides derived from odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) were rationally designed for recognition of SARS-CoV-2-related volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Ethanol, nonanal, benzaldehyde, acetic acid, and acetone were selected as representative VOCs in the exhaled breath during the COVID-19 infection. Computational docking and prediction tools were utilized for OBPs peptide characterization and analysis. Multiple parameters, including the docking model, binding affinity, sequence specification, and structural folding, were investigated. The results demonstrated a rational, rapid, and efficient approach for designing breath-borne VOC-recognition peptides, which could further improve the biosensor performance for pioneering COVID-19 screening and many other applications.
Effect of Thermal Processing on the Metabolic Components of Black Beans on Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled with High-Field Quadrupole-Orbitrap High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Feng Yuchao , Fan Xia , Zhang Shu , Yu Miao , Wu Tong , Liang Ying , Wang Changyuan , Yang Hongzhi
Published: June 2022

An ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-field quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QE-MS) histological platform was used to analyze the effects of two thermal processing methods (cooking and steaming) on the nutritional metabolic components of black beans. Black beans had the most amino acids, followed by lipids and polyphenols, and more sugars. Multivariate statistical analysis indicated that heat processing significantly affected the metabolic component content in black beans, with effects varying among different components. Polyphenols, especially flavonoids and isoflavones, were highly susceptible. A total of 197 and 210 differential metabolites were identified in both raw black beans and cooked and steamed black beans, respectively. Cooking reduced the cumulative content of amino acids, lipids, polyphenols, sugars, and nucleosides, whereas steaming reduced amino acid and lipid content, slightly increased polyphenol content, and significantly increased sugar and nucleoside content. Our results indicated that metabolic components were better retained during steaming than cooking. Heat treatment had the greatest impact on amino acids, followed by polyphenols, fatty acids, sugars, and vitamins, indicating that cooking promotes the transformation of most substances and the synthesis of a few. The results of this study provide a basis for further research and development of nutritional products using black beans.
Different Types of Meatballs Enriched with Wild Thyme/Lemon Balm Aqueous Extract—Complex Characterization
Authors: Tănase (Butnariu) Luiza-Andreea , Nistor Oana-Viorela , Andronoiu Doina-Georgeta , Mocanu Gabriel-Dănuț , Botezatu Dediu Andreea Veronica , Botez Elisabeta
Published: June 2022

In the context of the increasing lactation problems among breastfeeding women, the development of a healthy lifestyle is needed. Different variants of pork, turkey, and beef meatballs, with added lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) and wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum L.) aqueous extract (6%), were obtained. These herbs were selected and used due to their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and lactogenic potential. Two thermal treatments, hot air convection (180 °C) and steam convection (94 °C), were applied for meatballs processing. The obtained meatballs were further subjected to a complex characterization. The functionality of the plant extracts was proved by the values of total content of polyphenols (2.69 ± 0.02 mg AG/g dw) and flavonoids (3.03 ± 0.24 mg EQ/g dw). FT-IR analysis confirmed the presence of trans-anethole and estragole at 1507–1508 cm−1 and 1635–1638 cm−1, respectively. Costumers’ overall acceptance had a score above 5.5 for all samples, on a scale of 1 to 9. Further analysis and human trials should be considered regarding the use of lactogenic herbs, given their health benefits and availability.
Quality and Metabolomics Analysis of Houttuynia cordata Based on HS-SPME/GC-MS
Authors: Qi Shuai , Zha Lingyan , Peng Yongzheng , Luo Wei , Chen Kelin , Li Xin , Huang Danfeng , Yin Dongmei
Published: June 2022

Houttuynia cordata is a medicinal and edible plant with a wide biological interest. Many parts were discarded due to various modes of consumption, resulting in resource waste. In this study, a comprehensive study was conducted on various edible indicators and medicinal components of Houttuynia cordata to understand its edible and medicinal value. The edible indexes of each root, stem, and leaf were determined, and the metabolites of different parts were investigated using the headspace solid-phase micro-extraction technique (HS-SPME-GC-MS). The differential metabolites were screened by orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) and clustering analysis. The results of the study showed that the parts of Houttuynia cordata with high edibility values as a vegetable were mainly the roots and leaves, with the highest vitamin C content in the roots and the highest total flavonoids, soluble sugars, and total protein in the leaves. The nutrient content of all the stems of Houttuynia cordata was lower and significantly different from the roots and leaves (p < 0.05). In addition, 209 metabolites were isolated from Houttuynia cordata, 135 in the roots, 146 in the stems, 158 in the leaves, and 91 shared metabolites. The clustering analysis and OPLS-DA found that the parts of Houttuynia cordata can be mainly divided into above-ground parts (leaves and stems) and underground parts (roots). When comparing the differential metabolites between the above-ground parts and underground parts, it was found that the most important medicinal component of Houttuynia cordata, 2-undecanone, was mainly concentrated in the underground parts. The cluster analysis resulted in 28 metabolites with up-regulation and 17 metabolites with down-regulation in the underground parts. Most of the main components of the underground part have pharmacological effects such as anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and antiviral, which are more suitable for drug development. Furthermore, the above-ground part has more spice components and good antioxidant capacity, which is suitable for the extraction of edible flavors. Therefore, by comparing and analyzing the differences between the edible and medicinal uses of different parts of Houttuynia cordata as a medicinal and food plant, good insights can be obtained into food development, pharmaceutical applications, agricultural development, and the hygiene and cosmetic industries. This paper provides a scientific basis for quality control and clinical use.
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Oxyresveratrol Tetraacetate, an Ester Prodrug of Oxyresveratrol, on Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW264.7 Macrophage Cells
Authors: Thaweesest Wuttinont , Buranasudja Visarut , Phumsuay Rianthong , Muangnoi Chawanphat , Vajragupta Opa , Sritularak Boonchoo , Rashatasakhon Paitoon , Rojsitthisak Pornchai
Published: June 2022

Oxyresveratrol (OXY) has been reported for its anti-inflammatory activity; however, the pharmaceutical applications of this compound are limited by its physicochemical properties and poor pharmacokinetic profiles. The use of an ester prodrug is a promising strategy to overcome these obstacles. In previous researches, several carboxylate esters of OXY were synthesized and oxyresveratrol tetraacetate (OXY-TAc) was reported to possess anti-melanogenic and anti-skin-aging properties. In this study, in addition to OXY-TAc, two novel ester prodrugs of OXY, oxyresveratrol tetrapropionate (OXY-TPr), and oxyresveratrol tetrabutyrate (OXY-TBu), were synthesized. Results from the Caco-2-permeation assay suggested that synthesized ester prodrugs can improve the membrane-permeation ability of OXY. The OXY-TAc exhibited the most significant profile, then this prodrug was chosen to observe anti-inflammatory activities with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Our results showed that OXY-Tac significantly alleviated secretion of several pro-inflammatory mediators (nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α)), mitigated expression of enzyme-regulated inflammation (inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)), and suppressed the MAPK cascades. Interestingly, the observed anti-inflammatory activities of OXY-TAc were more remarkable than those of its parent compound OXY. Taken together, we demonstrated that OXY-TAc improved physicochemical and pharmacokinetic profiles and enhanced the pharmacological effects of OXY. Hence, the results in the present study would strongly support the clinical utilities of OXY-TAc for the treatment of inflammation-related disorders.
Pore Formation Mechanism of A-Beta Peptide on the Fluid Membrane: A Combined Coarse-Grained and All-Atomic Model
Authors: Dai Yuxi , Xie Zhexing , Liang Lijun
Published: June 2022

In Alzheimer’s disease, ion permeability through the ionic channel formed by Aβ peptides on cellular membranes appears to underlie neuronal cell death. An understanding of the formation mechanism of the toxic ionic channel by Aβ peptides is very important, but remains unclear. Our simulation results demonstrated the dynamics and mechanism of channel formation by Aβ1-28 peptides on the DPPC and POPC membrane by the coarse-grained method. The ionic channel formation is driven by the gyration of the radius and solvent accessible molecular surface area of Aβ1-28 peptides. The ionic channel formation mechanism was explored by the free energy profile based on the distribution of the gyration of the radius and solvent accessible molecular surface area of Aβ1-28 peptides on the fluid membrane. The stability and water permeability of the ionic channel formed by Aβ peptides was investigated by all-atomic model simulation. Our simulation showed that the ionic channel formed by Aβ1-28 peptides is very stable and has a good water permeability. This could help us to understand the pore formation mechanism by Aβ1-28 peptides on the fluidic membrane. It also provides us with a guideline by which to understand the toxicity of Aβ1-28 peptides’ pores to the cell.
Effect of Various Retentive Element Materials on Retention of Mandibular Implant-Retained Overdentures
Authors: Chindarungruangrat Atitiya , Eiampongpaiboon Trinuch , Jirajariyavej Bundhit
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to examine the retentive characteristics of each retentive element material and the effects from thermocycling using the two implant-retained mandibular overdenture model. Two stud abutments and three retentive element materials; nylon, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyvinylsiloxane (PVS) were used in this study. Four tested groups, with a total of 40 overdentures, were fabricated, including a Locator® abutment with nylon retention insert (NY), Novaloc® abutment with PEEK retention insert (PK), Locator® abutment with PVS retention insert (RL), and Novaloc® abutment with PVS retention insert (RN). The retentive force (N) was measured before thermocycling, and at 2500, 5000, and 10,000 cycles after thermocycling. Significant changes in the percentage of retention loss were found in the NY and PK groups (p < 0.05) at 6 and 12 months for the RL group (p < 0.05) after artificial aging. The RN group exhibited a constant retentive force (p > 0.05). The tendency of the percentage of retention loss significantly increased for PEEK, nylon, and PVS silicone over time. The results of the present study implied that retentive element materials tend to lose their retentive capability as a result of thermal undulation and water dispersion. Nylon and PEEK, comprising strong polar groups in polymer chains, showed a higher rate of retention loss than polyvinylsiloxane.
Heteroligand Metal Complexes with Extended Redox Properties Based on Redox-Active Chelating Ligands of o-Quinone Type and Ferrocene
Authors: Baryshnikova Svetlana V. , Poddel’sky Andrey I.
Published: June 2022

A combination of different types of redox-active systems in one molecule makes it possible to create coordination compounds with extended redox abilities, combining molecular and electronic structures determined by the features of intra- and intermolecular interactions between such redox-active centres. This review summarizes and analyses information from the literature, published mainly from 2000 to the present, on the methods of preparation, the molecular and electronic structure of mixed-ligand coordination compounds based on redox-active ligands of the o-benzoquinone type and ferrocenes, ferrocene-containing ligands, the features of their redox properties, and some chemical behaviour.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 3 Activity as a Promising Biomarker of Bone Fragility in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Menale Ciro , Tabacco Gaia , Naciu Anda Mihaela , Schiavone Maria Lucia , Cannata Francesca , Morenghi Emanuela , Sobacchi Cristina , Palermo Andrea
Published: June 2022

The dipeptidyl peptidase 3 (Dpp3) is a ubiquitous zinc-dependent aminopeptidase, participating in the activation or degradation of signaling peptides and in the Keap1–Nrf2 antioxidant pathway. The absence of Dpp3 in the Dpp3 knockout mouse model causes increased osteoclast activity, altered osteogenic function, sustained oxidative stress in the bone tissue, and bone loss. We aimed to assess the association of Dpp3 activity with bone fragility in postmenopausal osteoporosis and the impact of denosumab on enzymatic activity. We conducted a two-phase study including 69 postmenopausal women with severe osteoporosis and 36 postmenopausal women without osteometabolic conditions, as controls (cross-sectional phase). Subjects with severe osteoporosis were assessed at baseline and 14 days after the first denosumab administration (prospective phase). The results showed significant reduction in serum Dpp3 activity (expressed as nmoles of formed product/mg proteins/min) in patients vs. controls (0.791 ± 0.232 vs. 1.195 ± 0.338; p < 0.001), and significant association with bone mass at the femoral neck (r = 0.28, p = 0.02) in patients prior to treatment. We found a negative correlation between C-terminal telopeptide (CTX) or N-terminal pro-peptide of type 1 procollagen (P1NP) levels and Dpp3 activity (respectively, r = −0.29, p = 0.012; and r = −0.2572, p = 0.033). Dpp3 activity did not change after denosumab injection. Our findings support a critical role played by Dpp3 in bone homeostasis as a potential bone protective factor. Additional clinical studies in larger cohorts might explore the implementation of Dpp3 assessment as a biomarker of bone health status.
Electrophile-Dependent Reactivity of Lithiated N-Benzylpyrene-1-Carboxamide
Authors: Ciechańska Magdalena , Wrona-Piotrowicz Anna , Koprowska Karolina , Makal Anna , Zakrzewski Janusz
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we describe the lithiation of N-benzylpyrene-1-carboxamide with RLi-TMEDA. We found that the reaction outcome strongly depends on the electrophile used in the quenching step. The electrophile can be introduced at either the benzylic position or at the C-2 position in the pyrene nucleus. Furthermore, when H+ was used as the quencher, the product of the intramolecular carbolithiation of the pyrene K-region was formed. Dehydrogenation of the obtained compound with DDQ allowed the synthesis of a novel nitrogen polycyclic compound with an aza-benzo[c,d]pyrene (azaolympicene) skeleton. Attempts to extend the reaction scope to the amides substituted in the phenyl ring 8a and 8b gave an unexpected result. The reaction of both compounds with BuLi gave 1-valerylpyrene (9) in good yield. Photophysical properties, including absorption spectra, emission spectra and quantum yields of the emission of selected products, were studied and discussed.
Chiral Nanocluster Complexes Formed by Host−Guest Interaction between Enantiomeric 2,6-Helic[6]arenes and Silver Cluster Ag20: Emission Enhancement and Chirality Transfer
Authors: Guo Yan , Han Ying , Chen Chuanfeng
Published: June 2022

A pair of chiral nanocluster complexes were formed by the host−guest interaction between the enantiomeric 2,6-helic[6]arenes and nanocluster Ag20. The formation and stability of the nanocluster complexes were experimentally and theoretically confirmed. Meanwhile, the chiral nanocluster complexes exhibited enhanced luminescence and induced CD signals at room temperature in the solid state, revealing the stable complexation and chirality transfer from the chiral macrocycles to the nanocluster Ag20.
Quality Assessment of Apple and Grape Juices from Serbian and German Markets by Planar Chromatography—Chemometrics
Authors: Krstić Đurđa , Ristivojević Petar , Andrić Filip , Milojković-Opsenica Dušanka , Morlock Gertrud E.
Published: June 2022

The high consumption of plant-based foods on a global scale has increased the number of adulterations in the food industry. Along with this, analytical approaches to fraud detection need to be further developed. A nontargeted effect-directed profiling by high-performance thin-layer chromatography hyphenated with five effect-directed assays (free radical scavenging assay, Aliivibrio fischeri bioassay, and acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, and tyrosinase inhibition assays) and multi-imaging provided additional information on the antioxidative, antimicrobial, and enzyme inhibition activities for 18 apple and 18 grape juices from markets in Serbia and Germany. Bioactive zones of interest were eluted using an elution head-based interface and further characterized by electrospray ionization high-resolution mass spectrometry. The different profiles were evaluated chemometrically, and several compounds, which were characteristic of samples from different markets located in Serbia and Germany, were identified in apple juice (such as chlorogenic acid, phloridzin, epicatechin, and caffeic acid) and grape juice (such as chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, and quercetin). The developed rapid and simple method for the quality assessment of fruit juices coming from different (geographic) markets showed clear quality differences. Thus, it could be used to learn more about quality differences, to detect fraud in fruit juice production, and to verify the authenticity of the origin.
Combined Use of Non-Invasive and Micro-Invasive Analytical Investigations to Understand the State of Conservation and the Causes of Degradation of I Tesori del Mare (1901) by Plinio Nomellini
Authors: Macchia Andrea , Biribicchi Chiara , Rivaroli Laura , Aureli Hélène , Cerafogli Eleonora , Colasanti Irene Angela , Carnazza Paola , Demasi Giuseppe , La Russa Mauro Francesco
Published: June 2022

In this study, the investigation of the oil painting on canvas I Tesori del Mare made by Plinio Nomellini in 1901 is presented. The aim of the research was threefold: the examination of the state of conservation in view of the restoration treatment, together with the identification of the causes of degradation and the study of the artistic technique. During the years, the artwork underwent several cleaning and fixing interventions, resulting in a patchy appearance of the surface. Nevertheless, the presence of consistent liftings persists, while the protective coating shows uneven chromatic alteration, both requiring further analysis. Multispectral imaging allowed for better visualization of the figuration’s structure and the restored areas. The combined use of Raman spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy in the Attenuated Total Reflection mode (FT-IR ATR), and Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with an Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) enabled better understanding of the stratigraphy through the identification of some pigments, the binder, and the aged varnish layer on the top. SEM/EDS highlighted the presence of zinc in both the ground layer and the paint layers. Furthermore, FT-IR ATR spectroscopy showed peaks related to metal soaps such as zinc stearate, which are known to cause severe delamination of the paint layers, explaining the recurring lifting issues. Eventually, the varnish layer was found to be acrylic resin, presumably mixed with varnishes applied in past restoration treatments.
Fabrication and Properties of Tree-Branched Cellulose Nanofibers (CNFs) via Acid Hydrolysis Assisted with Pre-Disintegration Treatment
Authors: Li Jun , Liu Dongyan , Li Junsheng , Yang Fei , Sui Guoxin , Dong Yu
Published: June 2022

In this paper, the novel morphology of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) with a unique tree-branched structure was discovered by using acid hydrolysis assisted with pre-disintegration treatment from wood pulps. For comparison, the pulps derived from both softwood and hardwood were utilized to extract nanocellulose in order to validate the feasibility of proposed material fabrication technique. The morphology, crystalline structures, chemical structures, and thermal stability of nanocellulose were characterized by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), as well as thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Prior to acid hydrolysis, softwood and hardwood pulps underwent the disintegration treatment in the fiber dissociator. It has been found that nanocellulose derived from disintegrated pulps possesses much longer fiber length (approximately 5–6 μm) and more evident tree-branched structures along with lower degree of crystallinity when compared with those untreated counterparts. The maximum mass loss rate of CNFs takes place at the temperature level of approximately 225 °C, and appears to be higher than that of cellulose nanowhiskers (CNWs), which might be attributed to an induced impact of amorphous content. On the other hand, disintegration treatment is quite beneficial to the enhancement of tensile strength of nanocellulose films. This study elaborates a new route of material fabrication toward the development of well-tailored tree-branched CNFs in order to broaden the potential widespread applications of nanocellulose with diverse morphological structures.
New Insight into Sorption Cycling Stability of Three Al-Based MOF Materials in Water Vapour
Authors: Čelič Tadeja Birsa , Škrjanc Aljaž , Coronado Juan Manuel , Čendak Tomaž , de la Peña O’Shea Victor Antonio , Serrano David Pedro , Zabukovec Logar Nataša
Published: June 2022

Three porous aluminium benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylates MIL-96(Al), MIL-100(Al) and MIL-110(Al) materials were studied for their hydrothermal stability. The 40-cycles water vapour sorption experiments for the three samples were performed by varying the temperature between 40 and 140 °C at 75% relative humidity to simulate working conditions for materials used in water sorption-based low-T heat storage and reallocation applications. The materials were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, N2 physisorption, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Infrared spectroscopies before and after the cycling tests. The results showed that the structure of MIL-110(Al) lost its crystallinity and porosity under the tested conditions, while MIL-96(Al) and MIL-100(Al) exhibited excellent hydrothermal stability. The selection of structures, which comprise the same type of metal and ligand, enabled us to attribute the differences in stability primarily to the known variances in secondary building units and the shielding of potential water coordination sites due to the differences in pore accessibility for water molecules. Additionally, our results revealed that water adsorption and desorption at tested conditions (T, RH) is very slow for all three materials, being most pronounced for the MIL-100(Al) structure.
Low-Temperature Hydrothermal Growth of ZnO Nanowires on AZO Substrates for FACsPb(IBr)3 Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Sekar Karthick , Nakar Rana , Bouclé Johann , Doineau Raphaël , Nadaud Kevin , Schmaltz Bruno , Poulin-Vittrant Guylaine
Published: June 2022

Electron and hole transport layers (ETL and HTL) play an essential role in shaping the photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells. While compact metal oxide ETL have been largely explored in planar n-i-p device architectures, aligned nanowires or nanorods remain highly relevant for efficient charge extraction and directional transport. In this study, we have systematically grown ZnO nanowires (ZnO NWs) over aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) substrates using a low-temperature method, hydrothermal growth (HTG). The main growth parameters were varied, such as hydrothermal precursors concentrations (zinc nitrate hexahydrate, hexamethylenetetramine, polyethylenimine) and growing time, in order to finely control NW properties (length, diameter, density, and void fraction). The results show that ZnO NWs grown on AZO substrates offer highly dense, well-aligned nanowires of high crystallinity compared to conventional substrates such as FTO, while demonstrating efficient FACsPb(IBr)3 perovskite device performance, without the requirement of conventional compact hole blocking layers. The device performances are discussed based on NW properties, including void fraction and aspect ratio (NW length over diameter). Finally, AZO/ZnO NW-based devices were fabricated with a recent HTL material based on a carbazole moiety (Cz–Pyr) and compared to the spiro-OMeTAD reference. Our study shows that the Cz–Pyr-based device provides similar performance to that of spiro-OMeTAD while demonstrating a promising stability in ambient conditions and under continuous illumination, as revealed by a preliminary aging test.
Potassium Chloroaurate-Mediated In Vitro Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles Improved Root Growth by Crosstalk with Sucrose and Nutrient-Dependent Auxin Homeostasis in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Yadav Sandeep , Yugandhar Poli , Alavilli Hemasundar , Raliya Ramesh , Singh Archita , Sahi Shivendra V. , Sarkar Ananda K. , Jain Ajay
Published: June 2022

In a hydroponic system, potassium chloroaurate (KAuCl4) triggers the in vitro sucrose (Suc)-dependent formation of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). AuNPs stimulate the growth of the root system, but their molecular mechanism has not been deciphered. The root system of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) exhibits developmental plasticity in response to the availability of various nutrients, Suc, and auxin. Here, we showed the roles of Suc, phosphorus (P), and nitrogen (N) in facilitating a AuNPs-mediated increase in root growth. Furthermore, the recuperating effects of KAuCl4 on the natural (IAA) auxin-mediated perturbation of the root system were demonstrated. Arabidopsis seedlings harboring the cell division marker CycB1;1::CDB-GUS provided evidence of the restoration efficacy of KAuCl4 on the IAA-mediated inhibitory effect on meristematic cell proliferation of the primary and lateral roots. Arabidopsis harboring synthetic auxin DR5rev::GFP exhibited a reinstating effect of KAuCl4 on IAA-mediated aberration in auxin subcellular localization in the root. KAuCl4 also exerted significant and differential recuperating effects on the IAA-mediated altered expression of the genes involved in auxin signaling and biosynthetic pathways in roots. Our results highlight the crosstalk between KAuCl4-mediated improved root growth and Suc and nutrient-dependent auxin homeostasis in Arabidopsis.
2D Material and Perovskite Heterostructure for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Miao Sijia , Liu Tianle , Du Yujian , Zhou Xinyi , Gao Jingnan , Xie Yichu , Shen Fengyi , Liu Yihua , Cho Yuljae
Published: June 2022

Optoelectronic devices are key building blocks for sustainable energy, imaging applications, and optical communications in modern society. Two-dimensional materials and perovskites have been considered promising candidates in this research area due to their fascinating material properties. Despite the significant progress achieved in the past decades, challenges still remain to further improve the performance of devices based on 2D materials or perovskites and to solve stability issues for their reliability. Recently, a novel concept of 2D material/perovskite heterostructure has demonstrated remarkable achievements by taking advantage of both materials. The diverse fabrication techniques and large families of 2D materials and perovskites open up great opportunities for structure modification, interface engineering, and composition tuning in state-of-the-art optoelectronics. In this review, we present comprehensive information on the synthesis methods, material properties of 2D materials and perovskites, and the research progress of optoelectronic devices, particularly solar cells and photodetectors which are based on 2D materials, perovskites, and 2D material/perovskite heterostructures with future perspectives.
A Novel Crossbeam Structure with Graphene Sensing Element for N/MEMS Mechanical Sensors
Authors: Wang Junqiang , Zhu Zehua , Qi Yue , Li Mengwei
Published: June 2022

A graphene membrane acts as a highly sensitive element in a nano/micro–electro–mechanical system (N/MEMS) due to its unique physical and chemical properties. Here, a novel crossbeam structure with a graphene varistor protected by Si3N4 is presented for N/MEMS mechanical sensors. It substantially overcomes the poor reliability of previous sensors with suspended graphene and exhibits excellent mechanoelectrical coupling performance, as graphene is placed on the root of the crossbeam. By performing basic mechanical electrical measurements, a preferable gauge factor of ~1.35 is obtained. The sensitivity of the graphene pressure sensor based on the crossbeam structure chip is 33.13 mV/V/MPa in a wide range of 0~20 MPa. Other static specifications, including hysteresis error, nonlinear error, and repeatability error, are 2.0119%, 3.3622%, and 4.0271%, respectively. We conclude that a crossbeam structure with a graphene sensing element can be an application for the N/MEMS mechanical sensor.
Application of Quantum Dot Interface Modification Layer in Perovskite Solar Cells: Progress and Perspectives
Authors: Zhou Yankai , Luo Xingrui , Yang Jiayan , Qiu Qingqing , Xie Tengfeng , Liang Tongxiang
Published: June 2022

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are currently attracting a great deal of attention for their excellent photovoltaic properties, with a maximum photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.5%, comparable to that of silicon-based solar cells. However, PSCs suffer from energy level mismatch, a large number of defects in perovskite films, and easy decomposition under ultraviolet (UV) light, which greatly limit the industrial application of PSCs. Currently, quantum dot (QD) materials are widely used in PSCs due to their properties, such as quantum size effect and multi-exciton effect. In this review, we detail the application of QDs as an interfacial layer to PSCs to optimize the energy level alignment between two adjacent layers, facilitate charge and hole transport, and also effectively assist in the crystallization of perovskite films and passivate defects on the film surface.
A Review of Advancing Two-Dimensional Material Membranes for Ultrafast and Highly Selective Liquid Separation
Authors: Zhang Hongli , Zheng Yiling , Yu Shuwen , Chen Weixing , Yang Jie
Published: June 2022

Membrane-based nanotechnology possesses high separation efficiency, low economic and energy consumption, continuous operation modes and environmental benefits, and has been utilized in various separation fields. Two-dimensional nanomaterials (2DNMs) with unique atomic thickness have rapidly emerged as ideal building blocks to develop high-performance separation membranes. By rationally tailoring and precisely controlling the nanochannels and/or nanoporous apertures of 2DNMs, 2DNM-based membranes are capable of exhibiting unprecedentedly high permeation and selectivity properties. In this review, the latest breakthroughs in using 2DNM-based membranes as nanosheets and laminar membranes are summarized, including their fabrication, structure design, transport behavior, separation mechanisms, and applications in liquid separations. Examples of advanced 2D material (graphene family, 2D TMDs, MXenes, metal–organic frameworks, and covalent organic framework nanosheets) membrane designs with remarkably perm-selective properties are highlighted. Additionally, the development of strategies used to functionalize membranes with 2DNMs are discussed. Finally, current technical challenges and emerging research directions of advancing 2DNM membranes for liquid separation are shared.
Zn and Zn-Fe Nanostructures with Multifunctional Properties as Components for Food Packaging Materials
Authors: Lamsaf Hafsae , Ballesteros Lina F. , Cerqueira Miguel A. , Teixeira José A. , Pastrana Lorenzo M. , Rebouta Luís , Carvalho Sandra , Calderon Sebastian
Published: June 2022

Metallic and bimetallic nanostructures have shown interesting chromatic and antibacterial properties, and they can be used in various applications. In this work, zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) nanostructures were produced with different morphologies: (i) pure Zn; (ii) Zn-Fe nanoalloys; (iii) Zn-Fe nanolayers (Zn-Fe NLs); and (iv) Zn nanolayers combined with Fe nanoparticles (Zn NLs + Fe NPs). The aim was to produce components for food packaging materials with active and intelligent properties, including oxygen absorption capacity, chromatic properties, and antibacterial properties. Thus, the morphology, structure, and chemical composition of the samples were characterized and correlated with their oxidation, chromatic, and antibacterial properties. The results revealed a relevant reduction in the coating’s opacity after oxidation varying from 100 to 10% depending on the morphology of the system. All coatings exhibited significant antibacterial activity against S. aureus, revealing a direct correlation with Zn content. The incorporation of Fe for all atomic arrangements showed a negative impact on the antibacterial effect against E. coli, decreasing to less than half the zone of inhibition for Zn-Fe NLs and Zn NLs + Fe NPs and suppressing the antibacterial effect for Zn-Fe alloy when compared with the pure Zn system.
Effect of Conducting, Semi-Conducting and Insulating Nanoparticles on AC Breakdown Voltage and Partial Discharge Activity of Synthetic Ester: A Statistical Analysis
Authors: Khelifa Hocine , Beroual Abderrahmane , Vagnon Eric
Published: June 2022

This paper is aimed at studying the influence of conducting (Fe3O4), semi-conductive (ZnO), and insulating (ZrO2, SiO2, and Al2O3) nanoparticles (NPs) at various concentrations on the AC dielectric strength of MIDEL 7131 synthetic ester (SE) and partial discharges activity. First, a detailed and improved procedure for preparing nanofluids (NFs) in five concentrations ranging from 0.1 g/L to 0.5 g/L is presented, including high-speed agitation and ultrasonication. Then, the long-term stability is checked based on zeta potential analysis. After preparing and characterizing the NF samples, the following step is to measure their AC breakdown voltage (BDV). Due to the limitation of the high voltage supply (Baur system), the tests are performed according to IEC 60156 standard (2.5 mm gap distance) only with ZnO, ZrO2, and SiO2 NPs, and for comparison, tests are executed for all considered NPs with an electrodes gap of 2 mm. It is shown that the addition of Fe3O4 (20 nm), ZnO (25 nm), ZrO2 (20–30 nm), SiO2 (10–20 nm), Al2O3 (20–30 nm), and Al2O3 (50 nm) NPs improves the dielectric strength of synthetic ester upon an optimal concentration which gives the highest AC BDV. SiO2 (10–20 nm) and Al2O3 (20–30 nm) manifest their best improvement at 0.3 g/L, while for the other NFs, the best improvement is observed at 0.4 g/L. Further, the Anderson–Darling goodness-of-fit test is performed on the experimental data to check their conformity with the Extreme value (EV), normal, and Weibull distributions; the normal and EV fit curves are plotted and used to evaluate the breakdown voltages at probabilities of 1%, 10%, and 50%. It is shown that the AC breakdown voltage outcomes for most investigated nanofluids mostly obey the three EV, normal, and Weibull distributions. Then, the best combinations (nature of NP and optimal concentration), namely Fe3O4 (20 nm, 0.4 g/L), Al2O3 (20–30 nm, 0.3 g/L), and Al2O3 (50 nm, 0.4 g/L) NPs, that highly enhance the AC BDV of SE are chosen for a partial discharge activity investigation and comparison with pure SE. It is shown that the addition of those NPs significantly reduces the activity of partial discharges compared to pure SE.