bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesised Conductive/Magnetic Composite Particles for Magnetic Ablations of Tumours
Authors: Lee Chiang-Wen , Liu Ju-Fang , Wei Wen-Chun , Chiang Ming-Hsien , Chen Ting-Yuan , Liao Shu-Hsien , Chiang Yao-Chang , Kuo Wen-Cheng , Chen Kuen-Lin , Peng Kuo-Ti , Liu Yen-Bin , Chieh Jen-Jie
Published: September 2022

Ablation is a clinical cancer treatment, but some demands are still unsatisfied, such as electromagnetic interferences amongst multiple ablation needles during large tumour treatments. This work proposes a physical synthesis for composite particles of biocompatible iron oxide particles and liquid metal gallium (Ga) with different alternative-current (AC)-magnetic-field-induced heat mechanisms of magnetic particle hyperthermia and superior resistance heat. By some imaging, X-ray diffraction, and vibrating sample magnetometer, utilised composite particles were clearly identified as the cluster of few iron oxides using the small weight ratio of high-viscosity liquid metal Ga as conjugation materials without surfactants for physical targeting of limited fluidity. Hence, well penetration inside the tissue and the promotion rate of heat generation to fit the ablation requirement of at least 60 °C in a few seconds are achieved. For the injection and the post-injection magnetic ablations, the volume variation ratios of mice dorsal tumours on Day 12 were expressed at around one without tumour growth. Its future powerful potentiality is expected through a percutaneous injection.
Low-Voltage-Driven SnO2-Based H2S Microsensor with Optimized Micro-Heater for Portable Gas Sensor Applications
Authors: Jung Dong Geon , Lee Junyeop , Kwon Jin Beom , Maeng Bohee , An Hee Kyung , Jung Daewoong
Published: September 2022

To realize portable gas sensor applications, it is necessary to develop hydrogen sulfide (H2S) microsensors capable of operating at lower voltages with high response, good selectivity and stability, and fast response and recovery times. A gas sensor with a high operating voltage (>5 V) is not suitable for portable applications because it demands additional circuitry, such as a charge pump circuit (supply voltage of common circuits is approximately 1.8–5 V). Among H2S microsensor components, that is, the substrate, sensing area, electrode, and micro-heater, the proper design of the micro-heater is particularly important, owing to the role of thermal energy in ensuring the efficient detection of H2S. This study proposes and develops tin (IV)-oxide (SnO2)-based H2S microsensors with different geometrically designed embedded micro-heaters. The proposed micro-heaters affect the operating temperature of the H2S sensors, and the micro-heater with a rectangular mesh pattern exhibits superior heating performance at a relatively low operating voltage (3–4 V) compared to those with line (5–7 V) and rectangular patterns (3–5 V). Moreover, utilizing a micro-heater with a rectangular mesh pattern, the fabricated SnO2-based H2S microsensor was driven at a low operating voltage and offered good detection capability at a low H2S concentration (0–10 ppm), with a quick response (<51 s) and recovery time (<101 s).
Design of Low-RCS Broadband High-Gain Antennas Based on Transmission Array Metasurface
Authors: Lu Jia , Cao Xiangyu , Cong Lili , Ji Kefeng , Gao Kun
Published: September 2022

In this paper, a low-RCS broadband high-gain antenna based on metasurface transmission array is proposed, consisting of two parts: a metasurface transmission array and a feed antenna. When designing the metasurface transmission array, the phase compensation method is used to achieve the beam convergence effect of metasurface in the broadband. By designing the elements and using the checkerboard arrangement, the RCS of the incident wave with fixed polarization can be reduced more than 10 dB at X band or Ku band. The feed antenna is designed as a microstrip magnetic and electric dipole antenna, which has the characteristics of small structure and wide impedance bandwidth. An antenna that can reduce RCS by more than 10 dB in Ku band is simulated and measured. The measurement and simulation results show that the −10 dB operating bandwidth of the high-gain antenna designed in this paper is 6.7~13.5 GHz, and the relative bandwidth is 67%. The designed metasurface can effectively improve the gain of the antenna in the operating frequency band. In this way, the design of high-gain antenna is realized, and the antenna has an obvious RCS reduction effect on the vertically incident y-polarized wave in the whole Ku band. The method to design an antenna in this paper realizes the regulation of radiation and scattering at the same time, which has important reference significance for expanding the function of transmission array antennae and has great application value.
Demonstration of 144-Gbps Photonics-Assisted THz Wireless Transmission at 500 GHz Enabled by Joint DBN Equalizer
Authors: Liu Xiang , Zhang Jiao , Gao Shuang , Tong Weidong , Wang Yunwu , Lei Mingzheng , Hua Bingchang , Cai Yuancheng , Zou Yucong , Zhu Min
Published: September 2022

The THz wireless transmission system based on photonics has been a promising candidate for further 6G communication, which can provide hundreds of Gbps or even Tbps data capacity. In this paper, 144-Gbps dual polarization quadrature-phase-shift-keying (DP-QPSK) signal generation and transmission over a 20-km SSMF and 3-m wireless 2 × 2 multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) link at 500 GHz have been demonstrated. To further compensate for the linear and nonlinear distortions during the fiber–wireless transmission, a novel joint Deep Belief Network (J-DBN) equalizer is proposed. Our proposed J-DBN-based schemes are mainly optimized based upon the constant modulus algorithm (CMA) and direct-detection least mean square (DD-LMS) equalization. The results indicate that the J-DBN equalizer has better bit error rate (BER) performance in receiver sensitivity. In addition, the computational complexity of the J-DBN-based equalizer can be approximately 46% lower than that of conventional equalizers with similar performance. To our knowledge, this is the first time that a novel joint DBN equalizer has been proposed based on classical algorithms. It is a promising scheme to meet the demands of future fiber–wireless integration communication for low power consumption, low cost, and high capacity.
A Ti-6Al-4V Milling Force Prediction Model Based on the Taylor Factor Model and Microstructure Evolution of the Milling Surface
Authors: Zhu Siyuan , Zhao Man , Mao Jian , Liang Steven Y.
Published: September 2022

In this paper, a milling force prediction model considering the Taylor factor is established, and the Ti-6Al-4V milling force predicted by the model under different milling parameters is presented. In the study, the milling experiment of Ti-6Al-4V was carried out, the milling force was collected by the dynamometer, and the microstructure evolution of the milling surface before and after milling was observed by EBSD. Through the comparative analysis of the experimental results and the model prediction results, the reliability of the prediction model proposed in this study was verified, and the influences of the milling parameters on the milling force were further analyzed. Finally, based on the EBSD observation results, the effects of the milling parameters on the microstructure evolution of the milling surface were studied. The results show that both the tangential milling force and normal milling force increase with the increase in the milling depth and feed rate. Among the milling parameters selected in this study, the milling depth has the greatest influence on the milling force. The average errors of the tangential milling force and normal milling force predicted by the milling force model are less than 10%, indicating that the milling force prediction model established in this paper considering Taylor factor is suitable for the prediction of the Ti-6Al-4V milling force. With the change in the milling parameters, the grain structure, grain size, grain boundary distribution, phase distribution, and micro-texture of the material surface change to varying degrees, and the plastic deformation of the milling surface is largely coordinated by the slip.
Arbovirus Epidemiology: The Mystery of Unnoticed Epidemics in Ghana, West Africa
Authors: Agboli Eric , Tomazatos Alexandru , Maiga-Ascofaré Oumou , May Jürgen , Lühken Renke , Schmidt-Chanasit Jonas , Jöst Hanna
Published: September 2022

It is evident that all the countries surrounding Ghana have experienced epidemics of key arboviruses of medical importance, such as the recent dengue fever epidemic in Burkina Faso. Therefore, Ghana is considered a ripe zone for epidemics of arboviruses, mainly dengue. Surprisingly, Ghana never experienced the propounded deadly dengue epidemic. Indeed, it is mysterious because the mosquito vectors capable of transmitting the dengue virus, such as Aedes aegypti, were identified in Ghana through entomological investigations. Additionally, cases may be missed, as the diagnostic and surveillance capacities of the country are weak. Therefore, we review the arbovirus situation and outline probable reasons for the epidemic mystery in the country. Most of the recorded cases of arbovirus infections were usually investigated via serology by detecting IgM and IgG immunoglobulins in clinical samples, which is indicative of prior exposure but not an active case. This led to the identification of yellow fever virus and dengue virus as the main circulating arboviruses among the Ghanaian population. However, major yellow fever epidemics were reported for over a decade. It is important to note that the reviewed arboviruses were not frequently detected in the vectors. The data highlight the necessity of strengthening the diagnostics and the need for continuous arbovirus and vector surveillance to provide an early warning system for future arbovirus epidemics.
Calmodulin in Paramecium: Focus on Genomic Data
Authors: Villalobo Eduardo , Gutiérrez Gabriel , Villalobo Antonio
Published: September 2022

Calcium (Ca2+) is a universal second messenger that plays a key role in cellular signaling. However, Ca2+ signals are transduced with the help of Ca2+-binding proteins, which serve as sensors, transducers, and elicitors. Among the collection of these Ca2+-binding proteins, calmodulin (CaM) emerged as the prototypical model in eukaryotic cells. This is a small protein that binds four Ca2+ ions and whose functions are multiple, controlling many essential aspects of cell physiology. CaM is universally distributed in eukaryotes, from multicellular organisms, such as human and land plants, to unicellular microorganisms, such as yeasts and ciliates. Here, we review most of the information gathered on CaM in Paramecium, a group of ciliates. We condense the information here by mentioning that mature Paramecium CaM is a 148 amino acid-long protein codified by a single gene, as in other eukaryotic microorganisms. In these ciliates, the protein is notoriously localized and regulates cilia function and can stimulate the activity of some enzymes. When Paramecium CaM is mutated, cells show flawed locomotion and/or exocytosis. We further widen this and additional information in the text, focusing on genomic data.
In-Situ Study Methods Used in the Discovery of Sites of Modern Hydrothermal Ore Formation on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge
Authors: Sudarikov Sergei , Petrov Vladimir , Narkevsky Egor , Dobretsova Irina , Antipova Irina
Published: September 2022

This paper presents in situ methods used in the search for areas of modern hydrothermal activity, as well as the results of their long-term use during cruises within the Russian exploration area of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR). In this study, the following methods were used: CTD-sounding, methane sounding, teleprofiling and measurements with Eh, pS, pNa, pH and EF sensors. During profiling by towed complexes (RIFT, MAK-1M), various geophysical and geochemical anomalies near high-temperature, low-temperature and inactive fields were detected. Geophysical anomalies are more distinct when profiling near the bottom, and geochemical anomalies are located at a distance from the bottom (~150–200 m). Direct signs of high-temperature discharging (black smoker′s smoke, hydrothermal buildings) and indirect signs of low-temperature discharging (lithified carbonate sediments and accumulations of endemic hydrothermal fauna) were detected during teleprofiling. We have described 6 types of complex geophysical anomalies determined by CTD-sounding that allow the detection of plumes at different stages of formation and from different sources. The use of a methane sensor during sounding makes it more likely to identify a low-temperature discharge. Methane has a highly variable nature of distribution—over distances from the first hundreds of meters to tens of kilometers and a seabed height of ~50–500 m. The use of these methods together makes it more possible to detect low- and high-temperature hydrothermal discharges within mid-oceanic ridges (MOR).
Produced Gas and Condensate Geochemistry of the Marcellus Formation in the Appalachian Basin: Insights into Petroleum Maturity, Migration, and Alteration in an Unconventional Shale Reservoir
Authors: Laughrey Christopher D.
Published: September 2022

The Middle Devonian Marcellus Formation of North America is the most prolific hydrocarbon play in the Appalachian basin, the second largest producer of natural gas in the United States, and one of the most productive gas fields in the world. Regional differences in Marcellus fluid chemistry reflect variations in thermal maturity, migration, and hydrocarbon alteration. These differences define specific wet gas/condensate and dry gas production in the basin. Marcellus gases co-produced with condensate in southwest Pennsylvania and northwest West Virginia are mixtures of residual primary-associated gases generated in the late oil window and postmature secondary hydrocarbons generated from oil cracking in the wet gas window. Correlation of API gravity and C7 expulsion temperatures, high heptane and isoheptane ratios, and the gas geochemical data confirm that the Marcellus condensates formed through oil cracking. Respective low toluene/nC7 and high nC7/methylcyclohexane ratios indicate selective depletion of low-boiling point aromatics and cyclic light saturates in all samples, suggesting that water washing and gas stripping altered the fluids. These alterations may be related to deep migration of hot basinal brines. Dry Marcellus gases produced in northeast Pennsylvania and northcentral West Virginia are mixtures of overmature methane largely cracked from refractory kerogen and ethane and propane cracked from light oil and wet gas. Carbon and hydrogen isotope distributions are interpreted to indicate (1) mixing of hydrocarbons of different thermal maturities, (2) high temperature Rayleigh fractionation of wet gas during redox reactions with transition metals and formation water, (3) isotope exchange between methane and water, and, possibly, (4) thermodynamic equilibrium conditions within the reservoirs. Evidence for thermodynamic equilibrium in the dry gases includes measured molecular proportions (C1/(C1 − C5) = 0.96 to 0.985) and δ13C1 values significantly greater than δ13CKEROGEN. Noble gas systematics support the interpretation of hydrocarbon–formation water interactions, constrain the high thermal maturity of the hydrocarbon fluids, and provide a method of quantifying gas retention versus expulsion in the reservoirs.
In Vitro Antimelanoma Properties of Verbena officinalis Fractions
Authors: Nisar Rabia , Adhikary Sanjay , Ahmad Saeed , Alam Mohammad Abrar
Published: September 2022

Verbena officinalis is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat many ailments. Extracts of this plant are therapeutic agents for the potential treatment of different diseases, including colorectal and liver cancers, but have not been explored for their anti-melanoma potential so far. The goal of the current work was to prepare a methanolic extract and fractionate it using hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol, and acetone to get semi-purified products. These semi-purified fractions were studied for their potency against melanoma cell lines. The three potent fractions (HA, VO79, and EA3) demonstrated 50% inhibition concentration (IC50) values as low as 2.85 µg/mL against the LOX IMVI cell line. All three fractions showed similar potency in inhibiting the growth of the B16 cells, a murine melanoma cell line. Based on high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) data, for the first time, we report on lupulone A from this plant. LC-MS data also indicated the presence of hedergonic acid, serjanic acid, and other compounds in V. officinalis extracts.
Fabrication of Cr-ZnFe2O4/S-g-C3N4 Heterojunction Enriched Charge Separation for Sunlight Responsive Photocatalytic Performance and Antibacterial Study
Authors: Zhang Ping , Munawar Tehreem , Soltane Raya , Javed Mohsin , Liu Guocong , Iqbal Shahid , Qamar Muhammad Azam , Dera Ayed A. , Alrbyawi Hamad , Alfakeer M. , Rabea Sameh , Elkaeed Eslam B.
Published: September 2022

There has been a lot of interest in the manufacture of stable, high-efficiency photocatalysts. In this study, initially Cr doped ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) were made via surfactant-assisted hydrothermal technique. Then Cr-ZnFe2O4 NPs were modified by incorporating S-g-C3N4 to enhance their photocatalytic efficiency. The morphological, structural, and bonding aspects were analyzed by XRD, FTIR, and SEM techniques. The photocatalytic efficiency of the functional Cr-ZnFe2O4/S-g-C3N4 (ZFG) heterostructure photocatalysts was examined against MB under sunlight. The produced ZFG-50 composite has the best photocatalytic performance, which is 2.4 and 3.5 times better than that of ZnFe2O4 and S-g-C3N4, respectively. Experiments revealed that the enhanced photocatalytic activity of the ZFG nanocomposite was caused by a more effective transfer and separation of photo-induced charges. The ZFG photocatalyst can use sunlight for treating polluted water, and the proposed modification of ZnFe2O4 using Cr and S-g-C3N4 is efficient, affordable, and environmentally benign. Under visible light, Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria were employed to ZFG-50 NCs’ antimicrobial activity. These ZFG-50 NCs also exhibit excellent antibacterial potential.
Effect of Black Cumin Cake Addition on the Chemical Composition, Glycemic Index, Antioxidant Activity, and Cooking Quality of Durum Wheat Pasta
Authors: Krawęcka Ada , Sobota Aldona , Ivanišová Eva , Harangozo Ľuboš , Valková Veronika , Zielińska Ewelina , Blicharz-Kania Agata , Zdybel Beata , Mildner-Szkudlarz Sylwia
Published: September 2022

Pasta is a good carrier for plant enrichment substances due to its popularity among consumers. The purpose of the study was to investigate the functional potential and optimize the recipe of pasta made from durum semolina with the addition of black cumin cake at the level of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25%. The use of black cumin cake resulted in a statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase in the content of protein, fat, ash, and fiber, including both the insoluble and soluble fractions. A reduction in the digestible carbohydrate content, in vitro starch hydrolysis index (HI), was observed. Pasta with a reduced glycemic index (GI) compared to the semolina control was obtained. The content of polyphenols, including flavonoids, in the cake-enriched pasta increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05), which resulted in higher antioxidant activity against DPPH. The increase in the iron content was over 2.5 times higher in the sample with the 25% addition of black cumin cake than in the control sample. The functional addition significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased the loss of dry matter and influenced the cooking time of pasta.
Thermochemical Transition in Low Molecular Weight Substances: The Example of the Silybin Flavonoid
Authors: Tsioptsias Costas , Spartali Christina , Marras Sotirios I. , Ntampou Xanthi , Tsivintzelis Ioannis , Panayiotou Costas
Published: September 2022

Silybin is a complex organic molecule with high bioactivity, extracted from the plant Silybum. As a pharmaceutical substance, silybin’s bioactivity has drawn considerable attention, while its other properties, e.g., thermodynamic properties and thermal stability, have been less studied. Silybin has been reported to exhibit a melting point, and values for its heat of fusion have been provided. In this work, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry including derivative thermogravimetry, infrared spectroscopy, and microscopy were used to provide evidence that silybin exhibits a thermochemical transition, i.e., softening occurring simultaneously with decomposition. Data from the available literature in combination with critical discussion of the results in a general framework suggest that thermochemical transition is a broad effect exhibited by various forms of matter (small molecules, macromolecules, natural, synthetic, organic, inorganic). The increased formation of hydrogen bonding contributes to this behavior through a dual influence: (a) inhibition of melting and (b) facilitation of decomposition due to weakening of chemical bonds.
Recent Progress in the Multicomponent Synthesis of Pyran Derivatives by Sustainable Catalysts under Green Conditions
Authors: Maddila Suresh , Kerru Nagaraju , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha Babu
Published: September 2022

Pyrans are one of the most significant skeletons of oxygen-containing heterocyclic molecules, which exhibit a broad spectrum of medicinal applications and are constituents of diverse natural product analogues. Various biological applications of these pyran analogues contributed to the growth advances in these oxygen-containing molecules. Green one-pot methodologies for synthesising these heterocyclic molecules have received significant attention. This review focuses on the recent developments in synthesising pyran ring derivatives using reusable catalysts and emphasises the multicomponent reaction strategies using green protocols. The advantages of the catalysts in terms of yields, reaction conditions, and recyclability are discussed.
Theoretical Study of Vinyl-Sulfonate Monomers and Their Effect as the Dopants of Polyaniline Dimers
Authors: Rodríguez-Sánchez Isis , Conejo-Dávila Alain S. , Estrada-Monje Anayansi , Vega-Rios Alejandro , Zaragoza-Contreras Erasto Armando
Published: September 2022

Establishing the structure–property relationships of monomers and polymers via theoretical chemistry is vital for designing new polymer structures with a specific application. Developing bifunctional monomers with selective polymerizable sites is one of the strategies employed to obtain complex polymeric systems. In this work, a theoretical study on anilinium 2-acrylamide-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonate (ani-AMPS) and anilinium 4-styrenesulfonate (ani-SS) monomers and their respective doped polyaniline dimer (PAni-d AMPS or PAni-d SS) was performed. The study focused on understanding the susceptibility of the vinyl group to a radical attack and the conformation changes resulting from the coordinated covalent bond between sulfonate and aniliniun. Applying Density Functional Theory with the B3LYP functional and a basis set of 6 − 31 + G(d,p), the structures of the ani-AMPS, ani-SS, PAni-d AMPS, and PAni-d SS were optimized, and the different chemical descriptors were determined. The simulation showed that the reactivity of the vinyl group in the ani-AMPS is slightly higher. The sulfonate group undergoes a conformational change when bonding with PAni-d AMPS or PAni-d SS compared to its respective bifunctional monomer. Additionally, the electronegativity of PAni-d depends on the dopant’s structure. Thus, the bonded spacer between the vinyl and sulfonate groups (dopant) plays a notable role in the final characteristics of ani-AMPS, ani-SS, PAni-d AMPS, and PAni-d SS.
Improving the Efficiency of Organic Solar Cells with Methionine as Electron Transport Layer
Authors: Xu Yujie , Zhou Hang , Duan Pengyi , Shan Baojie , Xu Wenjing , Wang Jian , Liu Mei , Zhang Fujun , Sun Qianqian
Published: September 2022

Interface modification is an important way to get better performance from organic solar cells (OSCs). A natural biomolecular material methionine was successfully applied as the electron transport layer (ETL) to the inverted OSCs in this work. A series of optical, morphological, and electrical characterizations of thin films and devices were used to analyze the surface modification effects of methionine on zinc oxide (ZnO). The analysis results show that the surface modification of ZnO with methionine can cause significantly reduced surface defects for ZnO, optimized surface morphology of ZnO, improved compatibility between ETL and the active layer, better-matched energy levels between ETL and the acceptor, reduced interface resistance, reduced charge recombination, and enhanced charge transport and collection. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of OSCs based on PM6:BTP-ec9 was improved to 15.34% from 14.25% by modifying ZnO with methionine. This work shows the great application potential of natural biomolecule methionine in OSCs.
Violin Varnishes: Microstructure and Nanomechanical Analysis
Authors: Odlyha Marianne , Lucejko Jeannette J. , Lluveras-Tenorio Anna , di Girolamo Francesca , Hudziak Stephen , Strange Adam , Bridarolli Alexandra , Bozec Laurent , Colombini Maria Perla
Published: September 2022

The aim of the current work is twofold: to demonstrate the application of in situ non-invasive imaging by portable atomic force microscopy (AFM) on the surfaces of a violin and to integrate compositional and mechanical analysis at the nano scale level on model samples of varnished wood. These samples were prepared according to traditional recipes by an Italian lute-maker family well practised in the art. Samples of oil and spirit-based varnishes on maple wood, naturally and accelerated light aged, were studied. AFM was used to measure the nanomechanical properties of the model samples and established that the spirit-based varnish was stiffer than the oil-based. Synchrotron radiation micro- Fourier Transform Infra-red analysis of the layer structure revealed that stiffer spirit-based varnish showed less penetration into the wood than the oil-based. Further PeakForce Quantitative Nanomechanical Mapping (QNM) demonstrated a difference in adhesion values between the oil- and spirit-based samples.
Resveratrol–Maltol and Resveratrol–Thiophene Hybrids as Cholinesterase Inhibitors and Antioxidants: Synthesis, Biometal Chelating Capability and Crystal Structure
Authors: Mlakić Milena , Fodor Lajos , Odak Ilijana , Horváth Ottó , Lovrić Marija Jelena , Barić Danijela , Milašinović Valentina , Molčanov Krešimir , Marinić Željko , Lasić Zlata , Škorić Irena
Published: September 2022

New resveratrol–thiophene and resveratrol–maltol hybrids were synthesized as cholinesterase inhibitors and antioxidants. As with photostability experiments, biological tests also found remarkable differences in the properties and behavior of thiophene and maltol hybrids. While resveratrol–thiophene hybrids have excellent inhibitory and antioxidant properties (similar to the activity of reference drug galantamine), maltols have been proven to be weaker inhibitors and antioxidants. The molecular docking of selected active ligands gave insight into the structures of docked enzymes. It enabled the identification of interactions between the ligand and the active site of both cholinesterases. The maltols that proved to be active cholinesterase inhibitors were able to coordinate Fe3+ ion, forming complexes of 1:1 composition. Their formation constants, determined by spectrophotometry, are very similar, lgK = 11.6–12.6, suggesting that Fe3+ binds to the common hydroxy-pyranone moiety and is hardly affected by the other aromatic part of the ligand. Accordingly, the characteristic bands in their individual absorption spectra are uniformly red-shifted relative to those of the free ligands. The crystal structures of two new resveratrol–maltol hybrids were recorded, giving additional information on the molecules’ intermolecular hydrogen bonds and packing. In this way, several functionalities of these new resveratrol hybrids were examined as a necessary approach to finding more effective drugs for complicated neurodegenerative diseases.
Methanol Oxidation at Platinum Coated Black Titania Nanotubes and Titanium Felt Electrodes
Authors: Touni Aikaterini , Liu Xin , Kang Xiaolan , Papoulia Chrysanthi , Pavlidou Eleni , Lambropoulou Dimitra , Tsampas Mihalis N. , Chatzitakis Athanasios , Sotiropoulos Sotiris
Published: September 2022

Optimized Pt-based methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) anodes are essential for commercial direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) and methanol electrolyzers for hydrogen production. High surface area Ti supports are known to increase Pt catalytic activity and utilization. Pt has been deposited on black titania nanotubes (bTNTs), Ti felts and, for comparison, Ti foils by a galvanic deposition process, whereby Pt(IV) from a chloroplatinate solution is spontaneously reduced to metallic Pt (at 65 °C) onto chemically reduced (by CaH2) TNTs (resulting in bTNTs), chemically etched (HCl + NaF) Ti felts and grinded Ti foils. All Pt/Ti-based electrodes prepared by this method showed enhanced intrinsic catalytic activity towards MOR when compared to Pt and other Pt/Ti-based catalysts. The very high/high mass specific activity of Pt/bTNTs (ca 700 mA mgPt−1 at the voltammetric peak of 5 mV s−1 in 0.5 M MeOH) and of Pt/Ti-felt (ca 60 mA mgPt−1, accordingly) make these electrodes good candidates for MOR anodes and/or reactive Gas Diffusion Layer Electrodes (GDLEs) in DMFCs and/or methanol electrolysis cells.
Quality Control of Oleum Cinnamomi Assisted by Network Pharmacology Strategy
Authors: Zheng Lin , Zhou Yang , Yan Ting , Gong Zipeng , Li Yueting , Chen Siying , Huang Yong , Chi Mingyan
Published: September 2022

Oleum Cinnamomi is a traditional medicine used by the Hmong, the essential oil obtained from Fructus Cinnamomi, for the treatment of coronary heart disease. Information regarding the efficient quality control markers of it is lacking, which has become a bottleneck restricting its development and utilization. Here, an integrated qualitative analysis approach based on a GC-MS and network pharmacology strategy was applied to explore quality control markers for the assessment of Oleum Cinnamomi. Firstly, the compounds of Oleum Cinnamomi were detected by GC-MS. In total, 57 chemical components were identified, mainly monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, accounting for 83.05% of total essential oil components. Secondly, network pharmacology was adopted to explore the compounds linked to target genes of coronary heart disease. Fifty-two compounds were found, indicating the effectiveness of Oleum Cinnamomi in the treatment of coronary heart disease. Among them, 10 compounds, including eucalyptol, were chosen as potential effective compounds in Oleum Cinnamomi. Thirdly, an established GC-MS SIM method was validated and applied for the simultaneous determination of the contents of these 10 compounds using 20 sample batches of Oleum Cinnamomi. It was preliminarily found that the contents of these 10 compounds differed in Oleum Cinnamomi from different origins. Finally, quantitative analyte data were analyzed using multivariate statistical analysis to determine Oleum Cinnamomi quality. Four compounds (eucalyptol, p-cymene, sabinene, β-pinene) were identified as chemical markers for quality control. Accordingly, this study provides new strategies to explore the quality control markers and develops a novel method for the quality assessment of Oleum Cinnamomi.
Protective Effects of Orange Sweet Pepper Juices Prepared by High-Speed Blender and Low-Speed Masticating Juicer against UVB-induced Skin Damage in SKH-1 Hairless Mice
Authors: Truong Van-Long , Rarison Razanamanana. H. G. , Jeong Woo-Sik
Published: September 2022

Sweet pepper fruits (Capsicum annuum L.) contain various nutrients and phytochemicals that enhance human health and prevent the pathogenesis of certain diseases. Here, we report that oral administration of orange sweet pepper juices prepared by a high-speed blender and low-speed masticating juicer reduces UVB-induced skin damage in SKH-1 hairless mice. Sweet pepper juices reduced UVB-induced skin photoaging by the regulation of genes involved in dermal matrix production and maintenance such as collagen type I α 1 and matrix metalloproteinase-2, 3, 9. Administration of sweet pepper juices also restored total collagen levels in UVB-exposed mice. In addition, sweet pepper juices downregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory proteins such as cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-17, and IL-23, which was likely via inhibiting the NF-κB pathway. Moreover, primary antioxidant enzymes in the skin were enhanced by oral supplementation of sweet pepper juices, as evidenced by increased expression of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase-2. Immunohistochemical staining showed that sweet pepper juices reduced UVB-induced DNA damage by preventing 8-OHdG formation. These results suggest that sweet pepper juices may offer a protective effect against photoaging by inhibiting the breakdown of dermal matrix, inflammatory response, and DNA damage as well as enhancing antioxidant defense, which leads to an overall reduction in skin damage.
Optimized Protocol for Microalgae DNA Staining with SYTO9/SYBR Green I, Based on Flow Cytometry and RSM Methodology: Experimental Design, Impacts and Validation
Authors: Ihadjadene Yob , Walther Thomas , Krujatz Felix
Published: September 2022

Multiple fluorochromes are extensively used to investigate different microalgal aspects, such as viability and physiology. Some of them can be used to stain nucleic acids (DNA). Well-known examples are SYBR Green I and SYTO 9, the latter of which offers several advantages, especially when combined with flow cytometry (FCM)—a powerful method for studying microalgal population heterogeneity and analyzing their cell cycles. However, the effects of these dyes on the microalgae cell physiology have not been fully elucidated yet. A statistical experimental design, using response surface methodology (RSM) with FCM was applied in this study to optimize the DNA staining of a non-conventional microalgae, Chromochloris zofingiensis, with SYBR Green I and SYTO 9, and to optimize the variables affecting staining efficiency, i.e., the dye concentration, incubation time and staining temperature. We found that none of these factors affects the staining efficiency, which was not less than 99.65%. However, for both dyes, the dye concentration was shown to be the most significant factor causing cell damage (p-values: 0.0003; <0.0001) for SYBR Green I and SYTO 9, respectively. The staining temperature was only significant for SYTO 9 (p-value: 0.0082), and no significant effect was observed regarding the incubation time for both dyes. The values of the optimized parameters (0.5 µM, 05 min and 25 °C) for SYTO 9 and (0.5 X, 5 min and 25 °C) for SYBR Green I resulted in the maximum staining efficiency (99.8%; 99.6%), and the minimum damaging effects (12.86%; 13.75%) for SYTO 9 and SYBR Green I, respectively. These results offer new perspectives for improving the use of DNA staining fluorochromes and provides insights into their possible side effects on microalgae.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Electrochemical Properties of La-Doped α-Fe2O3 Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Hewei , Shi Peiyang , Ning Junxiang
Published: September 2022

La-doped α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles were synthesized by a hydrothermal method. The effects of pH value on the morphology, structure, and electrochemical stability of the La-doped α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles were investigated by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectrum, and electrochemical methods. The results show that the La-doped α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles exhibit a uniform spherical morphology at pH = 6, and are agglomerated with a poor dispersion at pH = 4 and 8. The iron oxide lattice is distorted by the La-doping, which increases the Fe–O bond strength. The decreased Fe–O bond length and the increased Fe–O bond energy at pH = 6 improve the electrochemical stability of α-Fe2O3. The waterborne coating modified with La-doped α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles exhibits a steady corrosion resistance.
The Impacts of Viscoelastic Behavior on Electrokinetic Energy Conversion for Jeffreys Fluid in Microtubes
Authors: Li Na , Zhao Guangpu , Gao Xue , Zhang Ying , Jian Yongjun
Published: September 2022

In this paper, the electrokinetic energy conversion (EKEC) efficiency, streaming potential of viscoelastic fluids in microtubes under an external transversal magnetic field, and an axial pressure gradient are investigated. The Jeffreys fluid is applied to model the viscoelastic fluid, and the analytic solution of velocity field is obtained using the Green’s function method. The influence of different dimensionless parameters, for instance, the Deborah numbers De and De*, which are related to the relaxation time and retardation time, respectively; the dimensionless electro-kinetic width K; the dimensionless frequency ω; the volume fraction of the nanoparticles φ and the dimensionless Hartmann number Ha; and three different imposed axial periodic pressure gradients (cosine, triangular, and square) on fluid dynamics are discussed. The physical quantities are graphically described, and the influence of different parameters on the EKEC is analyzed. The results indicate that De promotes the streaming potential and EKEC efficiency of the microtube, while De* inhibits them.
Ferroelectric Tuning of ZnO Ultraviolet Photodetectors
Authors: Xie Haowei , Kang Chenxu , Iqbal Muhammad Ahsan , Weng Xiaoliang , Wu Kewen , Tang Wei , Qi Lu , Zeng Yu-Jia
Published: September 2022

The ferroelectric field effect transistor (Fe-FET) is considered to be one of the most important low-power and high-performance devices. It is promising to combine a ferroelectric field effect with a photodetector to improve the photodetection performance. This study proposes a strategy for ZnO ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors regulated by a ferroelectric gate. The ZnO nanowire (NW) UV photodetector was tuned by a 2D CuInP2S6 (CIPS) ferroelectric gate, which decreased the dark current and enhanced the responsivity and detectivity to 2.40 × 104 A/W and 7.17 × 1011 Jones, respectively. This strategy was also applied to a ZnO film UV photodetector that was tuned by a P(VDF-TrFE) ferroelectric gate. Lower power consumption and higher performance can be enabled by ferroelectric tuning of ZnO ultraviolet photodetectors, providing new inspiration for the fabrication of high-performance photodetectors.
MXenes in Cancer Nanotheranostics
Authors: Iravani Siavash , Varma Rajender S.
Published: September 2022

MXenes encompass attractive properties such as a large surface area, unique chemical structures, stability, elastic mechanical strength, excellent electrical conductivity, hydrophilicity, and ease of surface functionalization/modifications, which make them one of the broadly explored two-dimensional materials in the world. MXene-based micro- and nanocomposites/systems with special optical, mechanical, electronic, and excellent targeting/selectivity features have been explored for cancer nanotheranostics. These materials exhibit great diagnostic and therapeutic potential and offer opportunities for cancer photoacoustic imaging along with photodynamic and photothermal therapy. They can be applied to targeted anticancer drug delivery while being deployed for the imaging/diagnosis of tumors/cancers and malignancies. MXene-based systems functionalized with suitable biocompatible or bioactive agents have suitable cellular uptake features with transferring potential from vascular endothelial cells and specific localization, high stability, and auto-fluorescence benefits at different emission–excitation wavelengths, permitting post-transport examination and tracking. The surface engineering of MXenes can improve their biocompatibility, targeting, bioavailability, and biodegradability along with their optical, mechanical, and electrochemical features to develop multifunctional systems with cancer theranostic applications. However, challenges still persist in terms of their environmentally benign fabrication, up-scalability, functionality improvement, optimization conditions, surface functionalization, biocompatibility, biodegradability, clinical translational studies, and pharmacokinetics. This manuscript delineates the recent advancements, opportunities, and important challenges pertaining to the cancer nanotheranostic potential of MXenes and their derivatives.
A Study of Mechanisms of Nanobubble-Enhanced Flotation of Graphite
Authors: Ma Fangyuan , Tao Dongping
Published: September 2022

This study was conducted to investigate the mechanisms of enhanced microfine flake graphite (MFG) flotation by nanobubbles generated based on the principle of hydrodynamic cavitation. The effects of nanobubbles on graphite surface properties were characterized in terms of the flotation kinetics, collector adsorption behavior, Zeta potential, IR spectra, contact angle, etc. The results show that the surface nanobubbles increased the hydrophobic attraction and reduced the electrostatic repulsion between the graphite particles and collector molecules, significantly improving the flotation selectivity and the kinetic flotation rate and promoting the agglomeration of MFG.
Cd3P2/Zn3P2 Core-Shell Nanocrystals: Synthesis and Optical Properties
Authors: McVey Benjamin F. P. , Swain Robert A. , Lagarde Delphine , Ojo Wilfried-Solo , Bakkouche Kaltoum , Marcelot Cécile , Warot Bénédicte , Tison Yann , Martinez Hervé , Chaudret Bruno , Nayral Céline , Delpech Fabien
Published: September 2022

II–V semiconductor nanocrystals such as Cd3P2 and Zn3P2 have enormous potential as materials in next-generation optoelectronic devices requiring active optical properties across the visible and infrared range. To date, this potential has been unfulfilled due to their inherent instability with respect to air and moisture. Core-shell system Cd3P2/Zn3P2 is synthesized and studied from structural (morphology, crystallinity, shell diameter), chemical (composition of core, shell, and ligand sphere), and optical perspectives (absorbance, emission-steady state and time resolved, quantum yield, and air stability). The improvements achieved by coating with Zn3P2 are likely due to its identical crystal structure to Cd3P2 (tetragonal), highlighting the key role crystallographic concerns play in creating cutting edge core-shell NCs.
Optical Properties of Cylindrical Quantum Dots with Hyperbolic-Type Axial Potential under Applied Electric Field
Authors: Kasapoglu Esin , Yücel Melike Behiye , Sakiroglu Serpil , Sari Huseyin , Duque Carlos A.
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we have researched the electronic and optical properties of cylindrical quantum dot structures by selecting four different hyperbolic-type potentials in the axial direction under an axially-applied electric field. We have considered a position-dependent effective mass model in which both the smooth variation of the effective mass in the axial direction adjusted to the way the confining potentials change and its abrupt change in the radial direction have been considered in solving the eigenvalue differential equation. The calculations of the eigenvalue equation have been implemented considering both the Dirichlet conditions (zero flux) and the open boundary conditions (non-zero flux) in the planes perpendicular to the direction of the applied electric field, which guarantees the validity of the results presented in this study for quasi-steady states with extremely high lifetimes. We have used the diagonalization method combined with the finite element method to find the eigenvalues and eigenfunction of the confined electron in the cylindrical quantum dots. The numerical strategies that have been used for the solution of the differential equations allowed us to overcome the multiple problems that the boundary conditions present in the region of intersection of the flat and cylindrical faces that form the boundary of the heterostructure. To calculate the linear and third-order nonlinear optical absorption coefficients and relative changes in the refractive index, a two-level approach in the density matrix expansion is used. Our results show that the electronic and, therefore, optical properties of the structures focused on can be adjusted to obtain a suitable response for specific studies or goals by changing structural parameters such as the widths and depths of the potentials in the axial direction, as well as the electric field intensity.
Toxicological Assessment of Cellulose Nanomaterials: Oral Exposure
Authors: Vital Nádia , Ventura Célia , Kranendonk Michel , Silva Maria João , Louro Henriqueta
Published: September 2022

Cellulose nanomaterials (CNMs) have emerged recently as an important group of sustainable bio-based nanomaterials (NMs) with potential applications in multiple sectors, including the food, food packaging, and biomedical fields. The widening of these applications leads to increased human oral exposure to these NMs and, potentially, to adverse health outcomes. Presently, the potential hazards regarding oral exposure to CNMs are insufficiently characterised. There is a need to understand and manage the potential adverse effects that might result from the ingestion of CNMs before products using CNMs reach commercialisation. This work reviews the potential applications of CNMs in the food and biomedical sectors along with the existing toxicological in vitro and in vivo studies, while also identifying current knowledge gaps. Relevant considerations when performing toxicological studies following oral exposure to CNMs are highlighted. An increasing number of studies have been published in the last years, overall showing that ingested CNMs are not toxic to the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), suggestive of the biocompatibility of the majority of the tested CNMs. However, in vitro and in vivo genotoxicity studies, as well as long-term carcinogenic or reproductive toxicity studies, are not yet available. These studies are needed to support a wider use of CNMs in applications that can lead to human oral ingestion, thereby promoting a safe and sustainable-by-design approach.
Unexpectedly Simultaneous Increase in Wavelength and Output Power of Yellow LEDs Based on Staggered Quantum Wells by TMIn Flux Modulation
Authors: Lv Zhenxing , Zhao Xiaoyu , Sun Yuechang , Tao Guoyi , Du Peng , Zhou Shengjun
Published: September 2022

Pursuing efficient long-wavelength InGaN LED has been a troublesome issue to be solved, which forms interesting subjects for fundamental research, but finds also motivation in extensive applications. Here, we investigate the effect of TMIn (trimethylindium) flux variation for growing bandgap-engineered staggered quantum wells (QWs) on corresponding LED properties and demonstrate the unexpectedly simultaneous increase in light output power (LOP) and emission wavelength. At 20 mA, LEDs based on staggered QWs grown under low flux show an increase of 28% in LOP and longer wavelength compared to that under high flux. The experimental results reveal that TMIn flux affects crystalline quality and indium composition of epilayers. Under high TMIn flux, high in-plane strain exists between adjacent layers, accompanied by the composition pulling effect, which reduces indium incorporation for the following staggered QW growth and hinders realization of yellow light emission. According to simulation results, low-flux-grown staggered QWs contribute to increased carrier wavefunction overlap as well as enhanced electric field. Notably, the former enables high LOP, while the latter results in emissions towards long wavelength, promising to solve an ever-present concern that LED performance deteriorates with increasing emission wavelength. Therefore, this work shows great significance in thoroughly understanding growth conditions for bandgap-engineered staggered QW structures, which offers a facile solution to achieve efficient long-wavelength optoelectronics devices.